Rockstar Reviewer

  Words by Anselm Anderson Italian symphonic death metal band Genus Ordinis Dei returns with their explosive live album 'Eternal Live', released through Eclipse Records. The album covers part of their European Tour in November 2024, which supported German Symphonic metal band Xandria and Norwegian Gothic metal band Sirenia.  The tour showcases the emotive growls of vocalist Nick K, whose guitar harmonies with fellow guitarist Tommy Monticelli create compelling music. Drummer Nico Pedralli completes the lineup with his thunderous drumming. The band's blends of ethereal symphonies, intertwined with stirring melodies, and aggressive vocals are captured on this eight-song release. The tour follows the release of their 2023 album, "The Beginning," and includes performances of tracks like "Aertunus," "Changing Star," and "Genesis." Genus Ordinis Dei began their illustrious career in Crema, Italy, in 2009, following a chance meeting wit...

Photo courtesy of Karen Rew BENEDICTION RELEASES VIDEO FOR NEWEST SINGLE, 'ENGINES OF WAR' + ALBUM PRE-ORDER FOR RAVAGE OF EMPIRES STARTS TODAY Transcribed by Anselm Anderson Legendary British death metal band Benediction is back with a new single from their upcoming album, "Ravage of Empires." Today, they released the powerful track "Engines of War." On April 4th, they will launch the follow-up to their 2020 comeback album, "Scriptures," via Nuclear Blast Records. The album will feature the iconic growls of vocalist Dave Ingram, set against pummeling riffs and grooves. As of today, "Ravage of Empires" is available for pre-order on CD, LP, and as a digital album. More information on the physical formats is provided below. BENEDICTION has released a new music video today, shot by Martin Goltermann. PRE-ORDER/PRE-SAVE RAVAGE OF EMPIRES: https://benediction.bfan.link/ravage-of-empires STREAM 'ENGINES OF WAR': https://benediction.bfan...

Words by Anselm Anderson Earlier this month, Italian Technical Old-school death metal act Gory Blister  made their Eclipse Records debut with the scintillating Reborn From Hatred. The album was the trio's seventh release over a career spanning three decades. The band comprises three members: John St John as the vocalist, Raff Sangiorgio as the guitarist, bassist, and synth player, and Gianluca D'Andria as the drummer. Their album has 11 tracks and runs for over half an hour. The songs feature intricate time signatures, powerful riffs, and intense energy, giving listeners a wild introduction to the band. 'Rebron From Hatred' was produced by drummer  Raff Sangiorgio  with assistance from  Gianluca D'andria.  Ricardo Borges helped mix the track s (Sepultura, Kreator, Carcass),  which were mastered by Peter Brussee (Steve Vai, Yngwie Malmsteen, Michael Bolton).  Gory Blister has come a long way since sending small demo recordings to local magazines. ...

Review by Anselm Anderson Seattle-based Beltfed Weapon has just released Darkened Demise, their fourth EP, a couple of weeks ago. Formed in 1999 by guitarist/songwriter Frank Hetzel,  the true "Veterans" of the metal scene incorporate elements of speed, thrash and death metal.  I decided to write this review after I read the backstory for this album. The album is dedicated to the memory of vocalist and project founder Tim Aymar, following his untimely death in February.  Darkened Demise  gave the ex-Control Denied vocalist the opportunity to experiment with his vocals alongside some experienced musicians. Tim Aymar befriended Frank Hetzel on Facebook after the latter became a fan of the band. Hetzel emailed Aymar about a project he was working on and invited Aymar to write down some tracks. Beltfed Weapon, led by Hetzel, has released 3 EPS: Beltfed Weapon (2001), Peacekeeper (2009), and Raining Plague (2015). I recently came across the EP, Darkened Demise, w...