The Burton D'agostini Procedure - Before and After Three
If anyone has done a dissertation on slow rock, it is The Burton D'agostini Procedure and their latest release, Before and After Three, is a masterpiece.
Love Ghost - Rock Me Amadeus (Edit)
- English (US)
Groove to Love Ghost's excellent metal reimagination of an 80s synth-pop classic, 'Rock Me Amadeus'! The original, by Falco, had the US Charts on its knees with bold, whimsical performance, a real statement piece that was aimed to shake up the scene! Now, decades later, the track receives a hard-rocking revival from LA's own Love Ghost. This take plays right into Love Ghost's strengths, its dark, brooding goth rock sound and hypnotic vocals but still brimming with that nonchalant, rebellious energy exhibited by Falco in the original. The track opens with somber alt-rock arrangements that explode into angry rhythmic grooves. The vocals, raspy and confident, sing sinisterly in a rap flow. Its spooky, captivating and has you leaning in closer. The catchy, explosive chorus stays true to the original structure. Repeated chants of 'Amadeus' still hit home with a pulsing energy, only this time, its darker and more cinematic. Where the original thrived on whimsy, flair and spectacle, Love Ghost's modern razor-sharp alt-rock sound takes this track deeper into introspective, shadowy realms. This tribute to one of the greatest ever composers, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, rocks intensely hard. Adding to its effect, 'Rock Me Amadeus' has a pretty damn good music video too! Featuring Love Ghost in a confined space, dressed all black and face-painted silver, a twisted, gothic ode to Amadeus. And yet, it feels more true to the intensity and insanity that best describe the great composer, reimagined in the modern, dystopian lens. 'Rock Me Amadeus' is a magnetic alt-rock track, very much similar to the original dynamism, but this time with Love Ghost's alt-rock intensity and indentity.
Joyce Tratneyk - Bloody Mary
- English (US)
Joyce Tratneyk delivers a superb alt-pop track, 'Bloody Mary'! Reclaiming her power with immersive cinematic grooves, spooky organ harmonies, and her fearless, enigmatic vocals, 'Bloody Mary' has you shook and how! Think 'Bad Guy' meets 'Can't Get You Out of My Head'. The track captures the young rising LGBTQ+ artist's journey of self-discovery, coping with shame and ostracism, when she first came out. And the subtle homophobia still endures in her artistic life. She takes all that apathy and indifference and turns it into fuel for her reddening fire. Releasing this on Friday, the 13th, and the day before Valentine's was a smart choice as she ties in themes of obsession, lust, forbidden pleasures coated in a spooky shade of red and black. We open on racing effects and seductive synth pop arrangements. It's like you're being welcomed into her dark, almost vampiric world. Joyce's opening verse, honest, razor wit, and haunting, takes you on a wild ride, with her bold introduction, 'In the dark its not so scary, Im your Bloody Mary!' What follows is a catchy pop arrangement of organ synths, bass, and drumlines, spooky, seductive, and downright enthralling. Joyce adds in some very enticing vocals moans, and fading effects that beckon to listen a little more intently. Underneath all the eerie black nail polish, Joyce dives into meaningful, introspective lyricism, seeking genuine love, support, empathy, and understanding. Lines such as 'Is it a crime to love so hard & I just want you to believe in me' tells us that she hasn't given up on love just yet. The emotional depth and contrast in the tonal signals make for a compelling listen and the cathy organ melodies are difficult to forget. 'Bloody Mary' could be just that perect score the the recent 'WEdnesday' tv series on Netflix. She definitley matches the goth intensity, intelligence and unstoppable charm as the lead character, and this track's cover image is just right in that regard too! Watchers of the show will get the reference to 'Thing'!
Ali Pips-Yours Truly, Ms. Darkside
Ali Pips features once again as the anonymously elected queen of the scares. After her previous single Mad Queen, she has resurfaced after her nap in the grave for Yours Truly, Ms. Darkside. It is a jazz-fusion number based on rock-and has plenty to unpack. So let’s get 6 feet under for the song. Yours Truly, Ms. Darkside is showing Ali Pips sitting on her own throne of this genre, and this scale. Her melodies incite a certain helplessness, and ignite something you might dread. If this is a ramp walk with Mike Myers, Freddy & the other greats of scare, Ali Pips will walk as the headliner. You better bet this song will be playing, because it defines her signature piano playing and jazz alternative approach clearer than your demise at the climax of a horror film. Her style is assuredly leaning towards a darker sound, so the Halloween release makes a lot of sense. As she explores the theme she has chosen, or has chosen her, we see some interesting flourishes. The breakdown at the two minute mark is a melodic monologue of sorts, with the marching style beat dropping a dark shroud over the songs overall feel. The piano work sells the depth of the song, and shows how masterfully Ali can navigate her primary instrument. This song would fit great into the movie Wonderwoman! Check out the movie here - https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/wonder_woman_2017
AnnaBella-Liar, Liar
AnnaBella is a duo you won’t find very often. A songwriter duo of a vintage doll, Anna and the singer/performer Bella, who have a symbiotic relationship in music. The doll writes, the singer performs. This results in a volatile combination of hard rock and voluminous guitar sounds. This is the latest single from this duo, Liar, Liar. There is more than a hint of contempt from AnnaBella. The truth can be evaded, but only for so long. They wait for judgement day, with hands clasped in joy. This is a rock song that brings slowly burns into the chorus, and is a rocking one. The chords strike hard and relinquish, trying every effect to bring in the drama for the lyrical push. The verse section has some simple, luring electric guitar groove. The drums help in leading the track to the punch of the chorus, the bridge almost reminiscent of a choir. The hook is in the chorus, brimming with the energy necessary to power the track through. The production allows the kick to be felt, not only heard. I would definitely chart this for the biography for AnnaBella. This is an interesting tale that would have an intriguing story, and the scene almost looks too perfect. As the guilty is traced, you see these masterminds cackling with joy. You can hear this intense combo in their other singles like Homewrecker & Replaced. They are just getting started, and we can’t wait to see where they go. Till then enjoy their single and watch your back!
[User] Salv.E- The Depths
[User] Salv.E is a rising artist who creates a very distinctive genre of music. His music is a culmination of rock and pop but somehow not entirely as well. It’s got a very eerie atmosphere to it. [User] Salv.E released a fresh album called The Depths. The album is filled with many new elements. It consists of isolated audio that barrels into the song aLongTimeAgo For example, the first track aLongTimeAgo begins with ominous whispers where you can’t recognise what the singer is trying to say. It feels like an incoherent chant that a person says repeatedly, only to fall on deaf ears. We then have Salve.E's voice shoot into its entrance. The track seems to be directed at an ex-relationship which was toxic and exhausting. We immediately jump into Pyromaniac. The track addresses what happens post-turmoil. After the dust settles, you’re left wondering what the next course of action would be. In this case, it’s burning bridges and dealing with the absence through whatever means necessary. Like a cleansing or a detoxing ritua. The rhyme scheme on this number is incredibly impressive. “Burning bridges 'cause it’s what I do, It’s better than getting along with you.” These lines must burn to whomever it is addressed. The Depths Most of Salv.E’s songs have a distinctive rap quality to it. It oozes a sense of frustration, anger and catharsis. The album slows down with The Depths. We are suddenly let into [User] Salv.E' loneliness. The number isn’t as eerie in ambience as the rest of the album. The singer truly stands bear with his emotions in this number. The names of each song is ominous, aimed to create an environment of mystery. It is paired with vivid visuals in the videos that speak of genuine and dark matters of life. [User] Salv.E’s voice is a needed unfiltered microscope into every emotion deemed negative which needs an outlet. When in reality they’re emotions that must be felt, acknowledged and held, much like any other emotion. Hereditary is a film crafted to perfection, from the script, casting and cinematography. We have all seen Toni Collete's delivery of the infamous Annie monologue in the film. The first half of the album can fit into this film exceptionally well, with its atmospheric sounds and moody beat structure. The film has similar qualities. We are introduced to the creepy and empty house by footsteps and then we see the door open and the family makes its way into the empty house. The film plays with layers physically, each scene sinks into the next with each ending frame. This is to portray how certain things have a way of trickling down family trees. [User] Salv.E is unlike any other artist we have in this day and age who not only breaks boundaries of genres but quite literally creates his own. Check out his socials to see what I mean about his excellent craftsmanship that makes you feel. Isn’t that the point of art? To experience new feelings?
Alternate Jane- Higher Ground
Higher Ground by Alternate Jane AKA Janice Leong is a fresh take on classic rock as a genre. She comes in with her dynamic blend of energy, melody and sheer grit. The track starts off with a mood-building guitar strum that is amplified by the synth. Jane’s gentle voice is in direct contrast with the soft-punk/rock atmosphere of the instruments. As the song picks up the pace with the drums, guitars and synth, you hear the resemblance to evanescence’s “Bring Me To Life”. Jane has an altered hook that adds so much texture to the song as she softens her voice when the song peaks. The guitar and the synth combo add an eerie quality to the song that evokes Gothic yet romantic imagery. A story that plays with gothic imagery, morality and romance brilliantly is Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. It’s no secret that Jane Eyre is the captain of the “I can fix him” club. The BrontĂ© sisters have however mastered the art of slow burn. The readers and viewers are left screaming “How are you so smart and this naive at the same time? He has his wife locked up in his attic!”. Higher Ground can be played as the house goes up in flames and we are left with the imagery of Bertha, Jane and Edward standing in one frame and in the fire. Alternate Jane has captured multiple genres in one song. The production quality of the song is top-notch, giving each instrument its space to shine. She has a way with words and her voice is as smooth as silk, transporting you to a world she meticulously engineered. To say that she’s greatly talented is an understatement.Â
Among The Masses- Wrong Turn
Wrong Turn by Among The Masses is a hard hitting punk-synth track. And it demands your attention from the very first riff. The tone is very reminiscent of the classic rock age. ut what truly sets it apart is its eclectic blend of punk and synth. It has you hooked right from the guitar riff and hold it steady throughout. The song is peppered with a unique and varied set of elements from the bass guitar to the vocals and the flowing synth keyboard. The song shows its grit as it progresses. We hear the instrumentals that build a relentless rhythm that perfectly compliments the vocals and the lyrics. The track is layered and mixed to perfection, it shows off the clean production talent of the band. The stand out moments in the song that leaves the melody stuck on rewind in your head is its soaring quality and catchy hook. Mike Flannigan is a gifted director, what catapulted him to fame was Oculus and Haunting of Hill House. Another gem is The Midnight Club. It isn’t as intense as most of Fammigan’s work but it's got its own of storytelling. This flavour of horror keeps you coming back for more. The cinematic gold that Flannigan brings to the table, no one else. It is only fair that can Wrong Turn must go on The Midnight Club’s playlist. Wrong Turn gives you everything you need to fill that punk rock sized hole in your heart that was abandoned a while ago. Time for the black eyeliner and stockings to make a come back. All thanks to Among The Masses is back and they’re here to stay!
Coma Beach - The Scapegoat's Agony
The debut album by German punk band Coma Beach, "The Scapegoat's Agony," is a haunting exploration of shock, chaos, pain, rage, and isolation. The band draws on influences from punk and alternative rock, including the Sex Pistols, Ramones, The Cure, and Guns N' Roses. Their lyrics, written in English, incorporate themes from various authors such as Samuel Beckett's existentialist worldview, Douglas Adams's satirical approach to human absurdity, William Shakespeare's tragic conflicts, and Arthur Schopenhauer's metaphysical pessimism. The album boasts raw energy. From manic vocals, fuzzy guitar riffs and off-the-charts pounding drumming, "The Scapegoat's Agony," by Coma Beach has everything that is required to make a solid punk record. It is not every day that you discover a band that is ready to revisit the roots of punk music. The German band does just that, and more! Tracks like 'Mind Descending' and 'Extreme Masochist' are articulate interpretations of the exceptional songwriting skills of Coma Beach. Furthermore, the band effortlessly blends punk rock with thrash metal influences, the result of which is a debut record that sets them apart from the rest of the pack. A refreshing take on new-wave punk music Punk music is arguably on the verge of extinction. While giants like Green Day are still putting out new music, the sound has become more influenced by modern times. The artistic vision of punk bands is constantly evolving to suit the needs of the fickle-minded global audience. Amidst all of this, it is refreshing to see a band staying true to its roots. With in-your-face lyrics and a no-holds-bar style of songwriting, Coma Beach is one of the finest acts to emerge from the German music scene. The band, still in its nascent stages have made a record that immaculately portrays the mindset and musical direction that punk has long lost in the waves of time. The music is aggressive, yet maintains the subtle tonal characteristics that remind us of Ramones and Sex Pistols. God might not have been able to save the queen, but Coma Beach is surely making a conscious effort to save the future of Punk music. The new LP is already on the right track to becoming a work of art that shall be remembered for years to come by Punk traditionalists. Coma Beach is the anti-thesis to post-structuralism "What is the meaning of life? What is the meaning of death?" Coma Beach screams. The energy of the record is infectious. With tracks like 'Bliss' provide a moment of respite for the listeners to truly appreciate the music. The production is top-notch with a sonic soundscape that encompasses the stereo field beautifully. In addition, each instrument shines while also staying true to the artistic vision of the record. With intense energy and themes of existentialism etched into its narrative, Coma Beach's debut LP is suitable to become a part of action movies like John Wick. It may also find a place in off-beat comedy-horror flicks such as Scream. Overall, Coma Beach offers a clear-eyed artistic vision that blends genres and influences to create a unique and thought-provoking musical experience. Released in 2021, "The Scapegoat's Agony," is an album that will find a place in every indie-punk playlist. At a little over 46 minutes, the album presents an apt representation of the band's varied influences. In conclusion, Coma Beach is indeed a band to watch out for in the underground punk and metal scene.
Luke Frees- Strings
Luke Frees has made a devastatingly beautiful number- Strings and it’s sure to transport you to a sepia tinted world. The captivatingly dynamic single draws influence from classics like Jeff Buckley and Nina Simone. It clearly shows as well but Frees went, “Let's add a little bit of spice” and mixed in a little bit of Bowie as well.” The song is eager to welcome you in as we immediately jump into the guitar riffs that’s bound to hold your attention. While Luke’s voice shines immaculately against the lush instrumentals, what took the cake was the excellent Saxophone playing. Frees’ songwriting is top notch, with poignant lyrics that speak to his personal struggles and creative breakthrough. Luke Frees experienced all this while writing this number. “Some cheap entertainment, for the price of honesty” the lyrics clearly speaks of a relationship that ended bitterly. But he is speaking from a new found perspective where he realises that it was in fact a toxic relationship and they no longer mourn it. While she has already taken inspiration from Twin Peaks, I also believe that this number would fit perfectly well in Ratchet as well. It would especially sit well within the relationship between nurse Ratchet and her little brother. The song fits in between most leading characters. Overall, "Strings" is an impressive rock single that showcases Frees' talent as both a songwriter and performer. With its catchy melody, intricate instrumentation, and heartfelt lyrics, it's a must-listen for fans of classic rock and modern indie music alike.
Moon and Aries- Break The Matrix
Moon and Aries, the dynamic duo just released their third album Break The Matrix and it’s sure to be a staple in every electronic, soul and R&B playlist. Their signature sounds which blends multiple genres, is on full display. Moon and Aries have a rich and diverse background in music. When you pay close attention to their albums you see the iceberg of nuance and genres folded so neatly into each and every song. J Moon brings forth some interesting facts about the duo and their music creation process. Break the Matrix This particular album is unique and captivating with it’s futuristic soundscape. It draws its listeners in with its hypnotic beats and ethereal melodies. The entire album feels like an adventure. As if you are floating between tall grass and seeing new species moving past you with each note Your music incorporates a variety of genres, from electronic to soul to R&B. How do you approach blending and balancing these different styles? All of our concepts are born out of our conversations. There will be reoccurring topics that keep coming up for us that are big themes along our journey. Themes from the past that haunt us and cause us to confront these obstacles, or themes that we need to purge and find the melody and words to exactly how we feel. This is our 3rd release as a duo. So we know each other very well at this point. And so when it comes to our philosophies, opinions and views, Tom and I have a safe space in our conversations, and a protection in the songs we create. We both feel that each song concept is an important story for us to tell, and like a new twist and vibe on a typical storyline. Break The Matrix, is basically about moving from the old paradigm to a new World. Within and on the outside. So, these are deep esoteric philosophies based in metaphysics and quantum theories… that lead us to the ultimate questions like "who are we and why are we here " and … "where are we going". Is the greatest goal absolute illumination and enlightenment? Maybe for us it is. The Balancing Act of Blending by Moon And Aries As you hear the number you hear the different sensibilities of the song start to show itself, Moon's sense of cinematic presence with Aries piano and produtcion expertise all of it. You particularly hear Moon’s musical experience show up in a tone of places but particularly in Rescued and The In Between. It feels adventurous to observe and pick out who’s sensibilities shine where in particular songs. Your Album "Break the Matrix" has a really unique and futuristic soundscape. Can you talk about the inspiration behind this project and how you brought it to life? When it comes to fusions of genres in our music, both of us have so much colliding in our conscious motivations and subconscious inspirations. I come from a background of musical theater and jazz, but I also went to film school and studied how to write for film and television. Tom comes from a background of conservatory piano, creating soundtracks for video games and performing in bands. So, when we amalgamate our personal styles, along with our musical preferences, I think we have a fusion of about 10 different genres! Which has now become our signature sound. Growth and Take aways Tom (Aries) brings forth his experience as creator of music for gaming in Closer and Closer. While the rest of the album is mixed and mastered to perfection, this one comes with the added layer of experience. It’s got this trickling quality that has you pushed into a world that is created by Moon and Aries. The evolution of discovering yourself through your music is fascinating to observe. The music you write often explores themes of personal growth and self-discovery. How do you translate these complex ideas into your lyrics and melodies? What do you hope your listeners take away from your music? As the lyricist, I always layer my lyrics in a poetic fashion so that people can gain something new every time they listen. Even I get something new! I channel a lot of my lyrics as I immerse myself into the energy and frequency of the music that Tom creates. Before Tom creates anything, we have always flushed the idea out tho…. For months usually. Tom transports his inner core and truth in the essence of the instrumental and melody. Then it's up to me to live in that World and paint the picture with my words. Each of our songs are never about one thing or one person. They reflect on our 3 main relationships: The one we have with ourselves, the ones we have with other people/ place / things, and the one we have with God/ Universe.We always hope the listeners feel spiritually charged and activated as they listen and for moments after. Whether the song is uplifting or relaxing, we hope they help you get in touch with your infinite nature and free will to explore and experience Distance brings discovery What is fascinating is that they have built and engineered this album from two different countries and have never met. The distance must add to the kind of music one creates. You also notice the growth of influence when you hear their previous collaborations. Their Chemistry shines in every single song in the album Both of you are based out of Canada and Germany over the course of your careers. How have these different environments impacted your creative process and how has your individual music-writing process changed since you started this collaboration? Tom has been my greatest collaboration partner of all time. No close competition. And we've both had many! But Tom and I have this ability to live in each other's World's, nine hrs away. To be honest, it's easier to integrate this level of intense mirroring at a distance and to progress and level up at our own pace. To achieve what we are achieving through our music, it takes a very intense level of self discovery, reflection and also viewing the human condition, constantly. But my favorite thing to do is write over Tom's brilliant and magical instrumentals. To dig deep and find these golden truths within. It's become an addiction, almost, this level of musical exploration. We both can't imagine our lives without Moon and Aries.And after 3 years of distance - working in our own home studios, Tom and I are ready for an upgrade in our musical journey by closing this time gap, being together in person, creating more music and most of all, performing live. With 23 released songs, it's time for the next chapter. The Finale It is such a surprise to hear Tom’ s(Aries) voice in the last track Loosing control. To finally hear the two creators voice in the same song feels so satisfying to the listeners. It becomes the perfect end to the entire album, tying the experience together. The entire album evokes such great imagery. Their cinematic crafting of music would be wonderful in Cosmos by Andrzej Zulawski which was his last film. The playlist on film starts of classic and ends in experimental synth. This was done to amp up the eerieness in the film. The absurdist film turned into a critically acclaimed film and made its mark in the cinematic world. You must catch such beautiful craftsmanship and support them by following them on their socials in the links attached below.
No Coffin-DCxPC Live Vol. 15 No Coffin Live at Lou's
No Coffin have never left a pocket of silence in their doom thrash. It is a genre that many don’t touch, for execution has to be near perfect. Maybe this is one band that was just fated and slated to blow minds. This is their live album, DCxPC Live Vol. 15 No Coffin Live at Lou's. Get ready for a neck wreck. No Coffin/God Killer opens the track, with a lot of feedback. From the crowd, and the guitars. As the drums thunder in, ominous vocals giving some of the best gutturals that can be heard, live. The evil riff is a Kerry King badge winner, with some blistering pace immediately hit. With the instruments, you can hear the excitement in the gig, with the ultra tight recording that has been done. Reverse Prayer follows, doubling down on the energy that was being dissipated. It has more of a doom tone, even getting in some Tony Iommi sludge tones and melodies. As you can hear it bounce off the walls, the niche explodes. With blast beats and a roaring bridge, you’re initiated into where the adults mosh. No Coffin are ridiculously tight for a live performance that demands so much energy. No Coffin-Metal you can't handle .45 continues the descend into doom. The riff is one of the best I’ve heard in thrash in a long time. If I was in that crowd, you could imagine losing a few teeth. It brings the best of old school thrash, Slayer, Candlemass and the likes. Bringing an energy that seems like an exploding lithium factory, it breaks down to something even more addictive. My neck could never survive this. Fire Is the Cleanser Into All Life Must End brings some more ravenous riff power. At this point, we’re operating on rage and suffering-the prime fuel for doom thrash. A 3-piece band is putting even the big league guys to shame. They are more organised and tight here than many seasoned bands on their records. Next comes a cover of Portishead’s Over. Performed with class and an ode to one of their favourites, it is an explosive performance with a raw, real energy that they tap into like animals. The catchy riff rings out in the back, the vocals in the spotlight for the energy harnessed for something like this. A well-rounded, soulful cover, from tones to the inspiration drawn. Money Brings Tragedy closes out a bombastic set with class and style. One of their best performances, and you never see the zeal dip down. The riff is menacing, drawing blood with the kind of groove they’ve chosen. I’d have loved to have seen these songs feature in a show like Cobra Kai, tipping their hats to metal and rock. A live album like this would be best for a biography movie of the same. No Coffin want to bring thrash back to the place of power it held. This album sure as hell made it till there.