Rockstar Reviewer

The Rockstar Reviewer show returns with the rambling man behind the microphone. On this week’s show, I look at the five-track debut EP by Ana. The Australian debutants are a female-fronted symphonic metal act, hailing from Melbourne. They signed with Eclipse Records last year, and The Art of Letting Go is an insight into what they can do. The Episode was filmed a couple of weeks back, but the EP is released this Friday, March 29th. Apologies for any confusion. Click on the player below to listen to my thoughts. SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS https://www.eclipserecords.com/band/ana/ Enjoyed this post? Never miss out on future posts by following  https://follow.it/anselm-s-rambling-man-s-reviews?pub

Words By Anselm Anderson The Bad Electric are a Punk band that recently emerged from a burgeoning Welsh Music scene. The quintet are set to release their hotly-anticipated new EP "Happy Endings are Overrated" on 8th December. Beforehand, they will release two singles to precede the album. I shall review the first single "Beans", which came out on Friday 24th November. The self-styled "DIY" band formed in Swansea, Wales three years ago. Since then, they have self-released, recorded, and mixed last year's debut EP "In His Blood". They refer to themselves as a punk band but blend in alternative rock, indie and electro to give those earlugs a wringing. The Bad Electric comprises lead vocalist Johnny Randall, Matt Williams (Guitar / Synth / Vocals), Zach Williams (Bass / Vocals) and Tom Young (Drums). They feature various members from the Swansea Music scene such as HWDU and Suns of Thunder to name a few. "Beans" is an energetic punk tra...

Words by Anselm Anderson T he second EP review of the week is a look at the upcoming four-tracker , Coda Revival by  British hard rock act  Lords of Ruin  due  for release this Friday, November 24th. The band combines alternative metal with contemporary rock to satisfy the cravings of enthusiastic rock fans. Lords Of Ruin reminds me of a younger version of Avenged Sevenfold and a heavier alternative to Shinedown with their powerful and captivating lyrics, sharp riffs, and blistering drumming. The band explores a variety of styles on the four songs that are available here. Lords of Ruin were conceived in Northern England seven years ago, but it wasn't until 2019 that they released their first single. The band consists of "Lords" with vocalist Lord Dox, Lord Stev-O on drums, bassist Lord Liam and guitarists Lords Kev and Stones. They first gained notoriety with an appearance at the Hard Rock Hell Festiva l before the turgid pandemic struck Britain, Thankfully. The Lo...

Words by Anselm Anderson The Energy of The Rattlebacks is a force to behold. The quintet combines the attitude of classic rock with the punch of grunge to create a unique sound only known to themselves as Rattlebacks sound! They recently released their debut EP Kink  via a GoFundMe Campaign,  to which their fanbase kindly donated over £5,000 towards being made. The four-track EP was produced and recorded by  Dave Holmes at Lighthouse 95. The producer's impact can be heard over four stunning tracks of bally rock 'n' roll that is reminiscent of Guns 'n' Roses and Stone Temple Pilots.  Lead vocalist Josh Clarke's highly contagious soulful voice blends perfectly with lead guitarist Max Horn's groove-oriented riffs and the rhythmic guitar work of Cox, creating a strong dynamic with the powerful drumming of Seth Markes and the intoxicating basslines of Jack Holland. Formed in 2021, the band hails from Brighton in the South of England. They have attracted fans ...

Words by Anselm Anderson The Black Vultures are a new name in the rock world. I am always excited to receive music from a rock act with potential, and these four have plenty of potential. The band hails from South Wales and are set to release their new single "Treat Me Like An Animal" next Friday, November 4th. The track is one of three singles set for release over the next few months before releasing an EP early next year. "Treat Me Like An Animal", an energetic and upbeat rock anthem, is a light-hearted look at being in a bad relationship. The song was recorded at Unit 13 in Tredegar by local producer Tom Williams and mastered by Chris Peet at North House Studio in Ebbw Vale. The Black Vultures are an amalgamation of the quartet's favourite bands: Black Sabbath and Them Crooked Vultures. The track shares some influences from those bands with a catchy chorus and high-tempo riffs. "Treat Me Like An Animal" begins with a screeching riff that blends rock...

Words by Anselm Anderson Rock superstars Fozzy  has announced the release of their latest single "Spotlight" released via Maddison Records/The Orchard . Produced b y Three Days Grace and Halestorm Producer Johnny Andrews and mixed by Jacob Hansen, Originally an Ozzy Osbourne covers band, "Spotlight" is a throwback to the metal roots the band built their reputation on. Furthermore, This track reminds me of the earliest Ozzy albums with punchy riffs and an addictive chorus. This is certainly the heaviest Fozzy track since the popular "Judas" graced AEW arenas from around the globe. A whispered monologue opens this track exclaiming "I am the light of the truth, the one who sees right through. I know your every move. I got my eye on you-Spotlight!". The song segues into a pulsating riff, layered with smooth basslines and well-timed drumming patterns. The song builds to a bridge/chorus with multi-layered vocals. Chris Jericho's distorted vocal...

Words by Anselm Anderson Rising UK rockers  Molly Karloff have released their eagerly awaited self-titled debut via Molly Makes Records.  The Oxford-based trio combines punchy riffs, infectious choruses, and salacious grooves that have gained an international fanbase. The band has won many plaudits from the likes of UK Radio station Planet Rock , as well as music publications like Powerplay, Hard Rock Hell Magazine,  and Fireworks Magazine.    Having listened to their singles "You Don't Know My Name" and "Breaking Out" earlier, I was eagerly anticipating reviewing their latest release. The ten-track LP was produced by Grammy Award-winning Producer Matt Exeter, whose previous work includes Cradle of Filth, Judas Priest, Black Sabbath etc. The song "You Don't Know My Name" starts the album with a powerful riff and foot-tapping rhythms that set the tone for the rest of the release. "In The Night" turns up the volume with intense grooves ...

A couple of weeks ago on these pages, I reviewed the latest track from UK's Gothic rock act 8-Snake ; a band fronted by multi-instrumentalist and composer Francesco Fonte . Fonte now appears on the debut single 'Worms of the Mind' by fellow Brits Amnesiak. Mastered by Platinum and Gold awarded Sound Engineer Maor Appelbaum, the song talks about a woman that suffers from the mental illness Delusional Parasitosis Disorder. Lead singer, Grace Wilson's towering and haunting vocals relay the true terror of this illness. The slow, seductive basslines build the tension, as Wilson mesmerises, and details the effects this condition has on the woman. The dark, gloomy atmospherics is an eerie reminder of what serious mental disorders take on the mind and body. 'Worms of the Mind' is the debut single, taken from the band's forthcoming self-titled EP. Words by Anselm Anderson. Follow this link  here  to keep updated with all the latest news, Interviews, and reviews from...

  Singer-Songwriter and Autism advocate Max Muscato has released his latest single. 'Valarie'. This upbeat rock song mixes indie rock vibes with blues-infused riffs. Muscato hails from Buffalo, NY and is the founder of Rock Autism  Music Festival, a non-profit organisation powered by SonMax Entertainment. The festival is held every August in Buffalo NY. All proceeds go to Rock Autism , benefitting individuals in the Music, Film, Screenwriting, and Photography industries, as well as Internships and Scholars. 'Valarie' begins with Muscato's vibrant personality shining through over strong, percussive beats. The song builds to a hook-laden chorus. Muscato remains a cheerful individual over a rickety guitar sound and blazing keys. This is the perfect track to get one in the mood for the summer. Rating 4/5 Words by Anselm Anderson if you want to discover further reviews like this, please click on the link below to follow the blog and receive all the latest news and playl...

Words by Anselm Anderson Blues Rock act  Reliable Alibi released their third single "Silver Tongue Siren", from the upcoming debut album The Uke Rock Experience , due out today (Friday 13th August). The track features lead guitar from Benji B and was produced by Hip-Hop producer Matt Firenze . The track has been labeled a "Retro-Rock anthem", which becomes understandable upon first listen. "Silver Tongue Siren" is a laid-back rock track with an uplifting pop chorus. The hazy vocals are reminiscent of 1960s jangly rock bands like The Byrds. The awe-inspiring bluesy guitar breaks enhance the overall chilled-out vibe behind the track. Reliable Alibi comes up with a charming introduction to show Rock is certainly still alive and kicking. "Silver Tongue Siren is available as a pre-save in the link below;     Social Media YouTube i nstagram SoundCloud

  LA Rockers ' Electric Revival has released their latest single "Bad Habit", ahead of a full-length album release. The single was mastered by legendary icon Ted Jensen ( Green Day, Guns 'n' Roses, The Eagles ), who will also master the new album. Electric Revival decided to record "Bad Habit", following the success of their first two music videos, which reached 150,000 streams worldwide. The band have already received airplay, as well as graced the stage at such illustrious venues as Hollywood's Lucky Strike and Universal Bar and Grill.  Electric Revival is a trio formed last year by Vocalist Andreas Amnell and bassist Kostas Siozos following their respective journeys from Sweden and Greece to further enhance their musical aspirations. They soon met keyboardist Lisa Skyler to form the band. " Bad Habit" is a typical stadium-rousing melodic track with energetic vocals and guitars to get listeners on their toes. The guitar-driven openin...

  Lo-Fi singer/songwriter Andrew Neil returns with his fifth album, Sunny Side Up,  a follow-up to the 2019 release, Freak . Sunny-Side Up sees the Charlottesville native going back to his "Outsider" roots, a movement inspired by such artists as the late Daniel Johnston. Andrew recorded the album live in his living room, using his chosen nylon string Ovation Classical Guitar. The ten-track LP delivers a semi-biographical perspective on the singer's thoughts and life. The evocative imagery, upbeat tone, and heartfelt muses naturally come from a creative mind. The opener "Gamblin Man" is a bluesy number with a cool vibe. Andrew's nonchalant approach sung over strong percussive beats instantly makes this a pleasant start."Sunny Side" is a wonderful and powerful song that teaches us not to take life for advantage.  Andrew Neil continues to write vibrant music that doesn't rely on studio wizardry or proto tools to make this a good listen. He manage...

  Edinburgh-based Psychedelic/Indie rockers Ghost Dance Collective have released their eagerly-anticipated second studio effort Dream Yourself Into the Real World, the follow up to the self-titled debut sees the band continue to blend 60's psychedelia, indie and pop music to create a retro feel. The Scotsmen achieved the honour of #2 on the top 5 Neo-Psych bands list, voted by judges in the Scottish New Music Chart , due to the success of that aforementioned debut album. Ghost Dance Collective also have the unenviable task of recording all their material in analogue, as a homage to their Summer of Love idols. The magical journey through this real world begins with the mesmerising "Tears In Her Eyes", Vocalist Liam Payne's tender vocals are accompanied by delicate keyboards and electric acoustic guitars. Next up is the slow tempo "Mean That Much To Me", an indie folk song with pop overtones. The jangle- sound is reminiscent of 60's guitar acts. The band...

Artwork courtesy of Ben Ross Words by Anselm Anderson Folk act Aaron Ross and The Peach Leaves have released their debut single "Catch A Glimpse" today (April 30th), taken from the forthcoming album Swan Songs: Volume 1 via Dowd Records  The album features legendary native singer Aaron Ross and sees Nevada City band Farrow and The Peach Leaves  covering tracks from his vast Catalogue. "Catch A Glimpse" is the first from this eagerly-anticipated collection, produced by drummer Zach Peach. The beautifully arranged folk song is steeped full of nostalgic charm and sweet melodies. The Rolling Stones-influenced tender vocals are matched by a strong rhythm section. The simple guitar patterns are relaxed, against a warm and touching ambiance. Aaron Ross has been a mainstay in the industry since his time with math rock band Hella, with a constant penchant for innovation since releasing The Hallelujah Side  in 2003. Lead singer Graham Farrow Knibb says of  Ross," “If yo...

  Words by Anselm Anderson The legendary hellraisers  Motorhead recently released the live album Louder Than Noise-Live In Berlin  via Silver Lining Music on April 23rd. The performance was recorded on December 5th, 2012 in front of 12,000 fans at the Berlin Velodrome as part of the Kings of The Road  tour. The Lineup for this special occasion featured the longest reigning in the band's history with the late "Lemmy" Kilmister, guitarist Phil Campbell  and drummer Mikkey Dee . The concert was produced by the much-revered producer Herwig Meyszne r  ( Exodus, Kreator, Saxon). The album delivers twelve tracks of raucous rock 'n' roll, destined to blow your speakers out. The bone-rattling "I Know How to Die" opens proceedings with Lemmy declaring " WE ARE MOTORHEAD " to thunderous applause. The anthemic "Damage Case" continues festivities, alongside the rousing "Over The Top". Motorhead always knew how to play good old-fashion...

Words by Anselm Anderson Ghost Dance Collective are a band this blog first covered during the summer as part of a compilation for NHS workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Click here to read     I was instantly struck by their ability to intertwine beautiful harmonies with experimental instrumentation. And now they have finally released an EP, entitled "Getting BY" four songs of oddities and rarities that may feature in the future. The band's unique blend of Psychedelia and folk combine to create a sense of harmony and art to lift a few moods this winter. Getting By is the self-titled opener is an enchanting start with a 60's vibe. Soothing vocals play over multi-layered melodies. The warm timbre was matched by the tender keyboards. Rainy Night in Tolix is an acoustic track adequate for this time of year. Those aforementioned harmonies easily fit into intricate guitar patterns. A song that certainly warms up the cobbles. Next up is an alternate mix of Clouds  a ps...

Words by Anselm Anderson East London Rockers Harriet Comfort mark their return with 'The Other Side', released November 27th will be the follow-up to debut single Time is Now. ( Click here to read the review ) The band took full advantage of the recent lockdown, and the " rules of six", to complete recording with producer Peter Maher live in the studio. Ryan Pinson helped mix the track, inspired by a night out with some unsavoury characters. Harriet Comfort brings to life experiences to deliver a bluesy number that steeps to their depths to play to their strengths. The empowering presence of Amy Church on vocals produces a sultry essence to the backdrop of eerie keys and soaring guitars. Bassist Rick Gold's driving basslines rumble along to Sean Dalton's timely drumbeats. The song builds tension, as Church conveys a solitary figure. The dark overtones quickly explode into a catchy chorus. as atmospherics change to the increasing tempo. Guitarist Brett Mcfarl...

Words by Anselm Anderson  Australians' Age of Iguana recently released two singles, "Two of a Kind & "Otherside" " Two of a Kind" is the first single from the band. The Alt-Rock/3 piece consists of Ben George ( Vox. Guitar), bassist Bernard Hickey and drummer Aidan Smith. They were first formed by high school friends George and Hickey before, Smith later joined them from Melband. Two Of A Kind is a psychedelic number, steeped in hazy vocals and screeching guitars to leave your head spinning.  The track was recorded during the first Lockdown when Ben George teamed up with Simon Polinski to mix and master the track in two separate locations: Ben's Home and Laundry Goat Studios. Age of Iguana cites Oasis, Brian Jonestown Massacre and Dinosaur Jr amongst their influences, which can be heard here. The track begins with a retro 70's vibe with dazzling keys and meaty riffs segue into George's laid-back vocals. George's simple strumming pattern...

Words by Anselm Anderson German Symphonic Metallers' Leave's Eyes return with their eighth studio effort The Last Viking, due out on Oct 23rd via AFM Records. The band's love of Viking sagas and medieval instruments combine to tell the tale of the last battle of  Norway's King Harald III. The concept album chronicles his remaining thoughts, as he lays dying at Stamford Bridge in 1066. The Last Viking  finalises a lasting story, made famous in cult albums Vinland  (2005) & King of Kings  ( 2015). Leave's Eyes presents 14 songs of intelligent lyrics, bombastic musical passages and lung-busting singing to take you on this history lesson. Death of Kings  is a requiem to the fallen Haraldara ( King Harald), led by the sorrowful Elina Sirala, whilst tribal drums thud  to the lament of husky vocalist Alexander Krull in this beginning to an epic saga, Chain Of the  Golden Horn is a pulsating Pagan Hymn. This reminds me of early 2000 Nightwish with more pom...

London’s very own grunge rockers’ Superfecta will release their first new track in two years via their music platform www. Aurovine.com   this Friday (Sept 18). “Breathe in” was written by lead singer Rob Negrini, as part of a trilogy of recordings for Superfecta beginning here. New bassist Joe Head is introduced for the first time for this evolution in sound for them. Breathe In marks a turn in direction to a more aggressive, darker sound I have never heard before. There is no holding back with the opening riff, an edgy and potent threat of distorted guitar. Each passage builds in tempo and intensity with similarities to Alice In Chains during their Dirt” era.  Matt Vella pounds the drums throughout each chord struck like an army general, as Negrini croons over solid basslines. Negrini delivers once more with vocals full of emotion and sincerity on a track I think is about turning one’s life around. The band sounds like they are enjoying themselves without leaning too fa...