Rockstar Reviewer

  Words by Anselm Anderson Symphonic Death Metal act Genus Ordinis Dei celebrates their upcoming  European tour with Xandria and Sirenia by releasing "Eternal Cycle," featuring Xandria lead vocalist Ambre Vourvahis. The track reimagined the myth of Hades and Persephone, focusing on the eternal cycles of life, death and rebirth. The Italians blend their string arrangements and classical music prowess with the haunting melodies of Ambre, putting a contemporary spin on a mythical legend. The song's eerie quality foreshadows death through a powerful combination of a large horn section and orchestra. The dynamics intensify with the rapid string movements and shifting melodies.Genus Ordinis Dei's vocalist, Nick.K, enters with his intense, harsh screams  as the tempo escalates, accompanied by a robust sound of guitars and drums.Ambre Vourvahis soon joins as a counterbalance, providing soaring melodies that lend emotional and romantic support to the track. The tension escalat...

 Words by Anselm Anderson Rock Trio Krooked Tongue returned last week with their latest single "Nothing Ever Grows", an ode to the tortured artist with a lack of creative bliss. The band first entered the rock sphere with its debut EP " No Vacancy Hotel" in 2022, before following up with last year's "Deathproof". The feedback and extensive coverage of these two previous releases have heightened the band's profile, which concluded with August's tour in support of Kid Brunswick  on his Dead Forever UK Tour. "Nothing Ever Grows" was recorded and produced by Josh Gallop at Stage 2 Studios in their hometown of Bristol, England. The song blends grungy riffs with energetic, distorted vocals, I feel the track is influenced by bands like Muse and Royal Blood. The track begins with energetic, dissonant electric guitar chords followed by sombre vocals. The rhythms create tension over a frenetic, jagged grunge sound, while the uplifting, melodic...

  Words by Anselm Anderson Today's Song of The Day is "Bella", the brand new single from Gothic Metal newcomers Tellers Scribe. The quintet, led by the haunting vocals of Kim Stacey-Merino, tells the story of a woman's body found inside a hollow tree. The band questions the identity of Bella from Witch Elm. The band's eerie lyrics are inspired by Dicksenian and Victorian Literature, conveyed through a unique blend of Gothic, Doom, and Heavy Metal. Tellers Scribe were formed in Bedfordshire, England in 2022. Stacey-Merino is joined by guitarist Michael Merino, Rythm guitarist Yus Dervish, bassist Dan Tuck and drummer Dave Brett. "Bella' is one of many singles released in the run-up to their debut album Volume 1. The track goes through several stages to convey the true horror of the story. The opening guitar salvo, is rapid and intense, leading lead vocalist Kim Stacey-Merino to showcase her immense vocal range. The aggressive, discordant chords return as ...

Words by Anselm Anderson Nice Mind Records presents a pleasant treat from North-East singer/songwriter Chris Riley- lead singer of The False Poets- with 'Making Waves', the first track taken from his upcoming solo album, entitled Echoes in the Gloaming, which is due out this summer. The track has nice acoustics and deft touches on the guitar, making it an easy-listening folk song for the summer. I have previously reviewed the past couple of albums for The False Poets, but Riley reverts to a laid-back approach. The introductory slide guitar merged with delicate fingerpicking, creates a rhythmic cascade reminiscent of undulating waves. Riley's warm and welcoming voice sweeps across the music like a surfer riding the sea waves. The production helps elevate the sound like the listener is sitting next to the musician performing the track. Each note strummed is crystal clear and allows the listener to get lost in the track. Chris Riley has released a couple of other tracks to acc...

WORDS BY ANSELM ANDERSON Metal supergroup Fates Messenger introduced themselves to the metal world with two new singles today. They release two debut singles“Scars” and “Bonechapel', taken from their upcoming debut EP later this year. Formed by members of Above All , Romeo Must Die and Dishounour The Crown , the four-piece are no strangers to the metal scene having toured throughout Europe extensively in different disguises. They have supported Korn, Fear Factory and Entombed among the notable names. Fates Messenger mixed and mastered their music with an expected result. The band’s trade of groove-laden riffs, angst-ridden harsh vocals and bone-shattering drum fills are testament to a burgeoning metalcore revival. “Scars” is a slab of dark, bludgeoning metal designed to arch your neck and raise your fists. The track was inspired by a newspaper story about a teenage suicide brought on by cyberbullying, according to lead vocalist Tony Maddocks. The song hopes to convey a message of...

Canadian Alt-Rock Act Digital Opium released the highly addictive “Make Ya’ Dance” last December. The track is the debut of the newly formed band from London, Ontario, Canada. The song is written to get you in the groove and to start those hips swinging. The band, led by the bluesy vocals of Craig Jamieson, are known for their “infectious melodies and energetic performances”. They had full creative control over “Make Ya’ Dance”, making the song even more enjoyable. The band cite The Black Keys and The Beatles as influences. I can understand how these bands have had an impact on their music. The groovy guitar play and soft vocal melodies remind me of these bands once upon a time. The track makes me feel Digital Opium aim to break into the mainstream. As for the single, The band wrote this with a strong desire for people to enjoy it. I think they would be proud of the final product. The production is sharp and clear enough to listen to the instruments and vocals to be heard. “Make Ya’ D...

Words from Anselm Anderson The London-based Blues band Sun House recently released a catchy rock blues track titled 'Never Be Lonely.' This release marks the duo's first musical offering since their debut album 'Ticket To Fly' in 2020. Comprising guitarist Jamie Elli s and drummer Cam Meek, t he band aims to revitalize the blues and classic rock genres for today's music scene. A unique feature of their work is the collaboration with renowned blues musicians, adding a dynamic edge to their sound.  J Lee and the Hoodoo Skulls are featured on this latest track, with lead vocalist J ason Barratt contributing his soulful voice to the vibrant blues riffs. This is the first time I have encountered these acts and I was eager to give this a listen. The sound is fresh and the vocals are infectious. "Never Be Lonely" starts with powerful, resonating drums that segue into an upbeat and rhythmic blues riff. The motif builds, escalated by a steady combination of ...

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 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...

  Single Review by Anselm Anderson Rising Southern Rockers' Outlaws and Moonshine  are back with a message about demons and vice on the new single 'Pills and Alcohol. The follow-up to 'Hillbilly Rockstars' is a raucous three minutes of guitar-driven Southern rock. Formed in 2014 by the VanVolkenburg brothers- Beau (vocals) and bassist Chris, the duo are joined by , Richie Wilkinson (guitar, backing vocals), Mark Oaldon (guitar, vocals) and Eric Piper (drums).  The band comments the track is about feeling like you have found peace because you divulge in your inner demons and vices. The single starts with the cries of   "Far from Me to glamourise cocaine" over a simple, but effective riff. The song builds in tempo before changing to a catchy chorus. The song's addictive refrain of  " I love it" finishes with a salacious guitar solo for an energetic anthem for rock music from the swamplands. Social Media Links https://www.instagram.com/outlaws_moons...

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...

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...

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...

Words by Anselm Anderson. East End Rockers Harriet Comfort introduced themselves into the rock scene with her debut single "Time is Now". The six friends have been gradually growing amongst the elite with appearances on radio stations, and Spotify playlists, and recently shortlisted on the Classic Rock Track of the Week. The band, named after a pile of mysterious mail delivered to their flat, wrote this track about the environment. The band's brand of energetic rock, combined with keys and frenetic guitars to create a fun-loving song with a thought-provoking message. "Time is Now" comes to life with the announcement of the memorable three-chord guitar riff that sticks in the ear for a long time afterwards. Vocalist Amy Church arrives with her commanding voice, alongside the rhythm section of Rick Gold on bass, Brett Mcfarlane on Lead guitar and Anna Peiris also form part of the factor, as their fervent musicianship accentuates Church's sultry voi...

The review was written by Anselm Anderson for Rambling Man's Reviews. Swedish Garage/ Pop quartet The Plastic Pals return with new single 'Hangin' In the louvre' ,   released on International Towel day- 25th May today, in honour of the late author Douglas Adams , who wrote The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy ; which the band named themselves after. The single is the second, following lead single 'Plastic Pals' ,  taken from the upcoming EP It Could Be so Easy Free and  F ine ( Click here to read the review). https://anselmanderson.blogspot.com/2020/04/single-of-day-plastic-pals-plastic-pal.html . 'Hangin' in the Louvre' continues where the previous track left off. The haunting vocals mixed with twin-guitar harmonies and quirky lyrics. The opening tinkles of piano segue into an uptempo, groovy guitar riff. Hawk's vocals enter with the lines "We are hangin' in the louvre/ And it's quarter to five," A daunting and tend...

Words Written by Anselm Anderson for Rambling Man's Reviews Graylinglake is an Indie/Alternative rock band from Malmo, Sweden. They consist of former True Lies  member  Michael Harrsjo  ( Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards) and drummer Conny Stade. Graylinglake have been making inroads within the music scene in their native Sweden and has recently released a new album The Impossible Possible.    Runaway is the band's latest single; a pop-orientated bundle of feelgood music and a catchy chorus that will whisk the listener away. The opening bars follow a basic chord progression that lets the rhythm bounce along uninterrupted. The upbeat tempo is soft and melodic which engages the listener before the vocals enter. Harrsjo's voice is warm, as to sound easier over the harmonic guitar lines and gentle drumming. This allows the singer to sound soothing without intimidating the listener.  The lyrics are well balanced to match the optimistic tone. I feel the song i...