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Sunday, March 30, 2014

Underworld Fifth in the Series Continues with a Twist


According to Bloody-Disgusting.com the next and fifth in the Underworld series starring Kate Beckingsale and Scott Speedman will indeed be continuing but not as you may think or have hoped. The romance between the two in the second film Underworld Evolution (2006) lead to them having a child known as Subject 2 or Eve in Underworld Awakening (2012).

Can you already guess where this is going? Well Bloody Disgusting reports that they've learned Screen Gems is actively developing a fifth installment in the series, tentatively titled Underworld: Next Generation. Though no plot details have been revealed, the title certainly implies that Eve will be the main protagonist of the film, but we can only speculate at this point in time.


Len Wiseman will produce, and the studio is currently seeking a writer and director. Kate Beckinsale is not yet officially attached, though that could of course change as the project inches its way closer to reality. Again, since a director and writer have yet to be assigned, things could change. But in the early stages of development, this is where the studio hopes to take the franchise come 2015.

Saturday, March 29, 2014

Winx Club Reveals Season 7 Details


Rainbow's successful TV series Winx Club will be releasing it's seventh season all in 2D in 2015 with the fairies transforming into another talent this one animal talent! The season is said to be like this "Each fairy animal has a special talent, necessary for the balance of the Magic Universe. The Winx will discover this, while facing two new dreadful villains and getting new amazing transformations along their journey!"

Winx Club Season 7 Animal Talent


Kittie Celebrates 20 Years Together with DVD and a Book!


Canadian metallers Kittie who have been here for the passed 20 years had been keeping fans in suspense on what their BIG announcement was going to be n March 29, 2014. Posting various things via the band's Facebook page well today is the day and the announcement comes in terms of a campaign with help by the fans to create a documentary DVD and biography book. Kittie will take all the passed footage of various events, concerts, backstage, studio time, and more combine it together into this mega DVD and book with special bonus's to the fans who contribute donations getting special gifts in return. Along with these releases the band will re-release their whole discography re-mastering and remixing as well as releasing unreleased songs.  Check out the video for the campaign HERE and donate towards the campaign HERE. The fans who were hoping and expecting for these girls to create a tour based on their 20 year span with current and previous members MAY happen but it's un-telling at this point and time.

Friday, March 28, 2014

Blood On The Dance Floor Reveals Album Details and More!


Blood On The Dance Floor's upcoming seventh album "BitchCraft" due out for a summer release of June, has revealed the album title, tracklisting, and album artwork with pre-orders available HERE. The band will also be heading out on a tour with a list of dates revealed soon.

TRACKLISTING:

1. Sorcery
2. Bitchcraft
3. 3x3
4. Pure Fucking Evil Feat. William Control
5. Call Me Master
6. Blaq Magik
7. Poison Apple Feat. Jeffree Star (REMASTERED)
8. Possession
9. Freaks Do It Better
10. Oblivate

ARCH ENEMY Reveals Album Artwork and Tracklisting for New Album


Extreme metal icons ARCH ENEMY will unleash their 9th studio album, War Eternal, worldwide via Century Media Records (Trooper Entertainment in Japan) on June 9th in Europe and June 10th in North America. The artwork for the album was created by Costin Chioreanu (http://twilight13media.com/), who previously worked with Michael Amott on SPIRITUAL BEGGARS' re-issue of their self-titled debut.

Chief song-writer, guitarist and band leader Michael Amott comments: "I was looking for a hand-drawn feel with a unique atmosphere, something that would complement the music that we've been working so hard on these last couple of years. In the end my choice fell upon Romanian artist Chioreanu Costin, who's work I've admired for some time. Costin really grasped my vision for the artwork and layout, he's delivered some of the coolest artwork elements we've ever had with ARCH ENEMY!"

ARCH ENEMY's upcoming album, War Eternal, was recorded in various studios during winter 2013/2014 and produced by the band themselves with Jens Bogren (OPETH, PARADISE LOST, KREATOR) mixing and mastering the album at Fascination Street Studio. For a preview of War Eternal, be sure to check out the official video for the album's title track, created by Patric Ullaeus: http://youtu.be/InRMwptcgAo

TRACKLISTING:

1. Tempore Nihil Sanat (Prelude in F minor)
2. Never Forgive, Never Forget
3. War Eternal
4. As The Pages Burn
5. No More Regrets
6. You Will Know My Name
7. Graveyard Of Dreams
8. Stolen Life
9. Time Is Black
10. On And On
11. Avalanche
12. Down To Nothing
13. Not Long For This World

Calabrese - Born with a Scorpion's Touch


Horror punk rock n' rollers the Calabrese brothers are back with their fifth album "Born with a Scorpion's Touch" taking a more rock approach than horror approach this time around. "I Wanna Be A Vigilante", and "Born with a Scorpion's Touch", have been the leading hits off this release with other mentionable songs like "Loner At Heart", "Danger", and "Ride With The Living Dead". As said before, the rock approach is present more on this release having a more of The Ramones meets The Misfits vibe with an edgy yet raw sound that stays true to the Calabrese style. The instrumentals and vocal style is crisp and clear never missing a beat on either side, while the lyrical content is on beat having similar formula as previous Calabrese material. Either way you look at it, the Calabrese brothers have always stayed true to the music craft that they have built, and will continue to build upon, with their catchy melodies and uplifting lyrics.

Feint Scars - Think What You Like. Say What You Want.


Either way you look at it Feint Scars is a duo act who have written and recorded material their debut full-length entitled "Think What You Like. Say What You Want". This release going through the back lash of what most, if not some or all people deal with nowadays of love, loss, depression, addiction to drugs, drinking, smoking, all blurred together into a summary of genres of melodic, eletropop, with alternative dark rock n' roll roots that truly makes your head spin.

"Lowlight", "Chemical Train", "Don't Disappear", "The Drowning", "I Don't Mind" and "Giving Up", may be quite a bit to enlist but these songs are really what entail what these topics discuss whether it'd be their titles or the lyrical context within, you can just feel the emotion these guys are releasing. The instrumentals do their parts going right along with that emotional context, having that same sense of emotion and appeal it keeps the music alive and easy listening. While the vocal chords do the same effect except more of a embracing thing, that just lets your body take it all in, really being engulfed by the music all at once if that makes sense.

Feint Scar's debut "Think What You Like. Say What You Want". is indeed that these guys do have stuff to say and do what they think with it, it makes them another one of those acts that will be one you will not forget, but always remember because of their uniqueness and talent.

Thursday, March 27, 2014

Delta Wave Releases New Song "We Control The Lights"


Alternative rockers Awaken The Empire now Delta Wave have released a new single off their debut full-length untitled album called "We Control The Lights" check it out below!

SWORN ENEMY Debuts New Song!


SWORN ENEMY has reformed and once again they continue their legacy with the addition of new guitarist Matt Garzilli, and bassist Mike Puccciarelli. The band has completed work on a new album Living on Borrowed Time that will be released May 13th via Rock Ridge Music/ADA.  The album is available for pre-order HERE.

The first single from Living on Borrowed Time is being premiered exclusively on Lambgoat.  The song entitled "Hard Way" can be streamed HERE.

With the release of their new album Living on Borrowed Time, SWORN ENEMY have once again kicked open the door and punched the status quo in the mouth.  More Information including track listing, the first single and tour dates will be made available in the coming weeks

SWORN ENEMY, fronted by Sal LoCoco, established itself in 2000 with the release of Negative Outlook on Jamey Jasta's Stillborn Records. The record was a mix of old school hardcore punk and new school breakdowns, and quickly gained the band attention in the underground scene.


TRACKLISTING:

1. Do or Die
2. Hard Way
3. Broken Hope
4. Slipping Away
5. No Apologies
6. One Eye Open
7. No Mercy
8. Never Forget
9. Stand and Deliver
10. Nothing Changes
11. Rise Above

MAX CAVALERA Provides Update on New CAVALERA CONSPIRACY Album

CAVALERA CONSPIRACY the band featuring the legendary metal brothers Max and Igor Cavalera are in the final stages of working on their third album and their first for their new label home Napalm Records.  The band is working with producer John Gray (Soulfly) and plans on having the record ready for release in Fall of 2014.

Frontman Max Cavalera checked in from the studio to give an update:

On working with his brother:

"It has always been some kind of killer magic whenever I play with my brother.  We have a special connection that comes out through the music and the crowd reacts to it in an insane way."

On the recording process:

"Pretty much I have to get into CAVALERA CONSPIRACY mode.  I wanted the new album to be faster and thrashier with the concept of Old Babylon.  As far as recording equipment, we use everything!  We don't rely too much on Pro Tools like other bands.  All Iggor's tracks are live drums.  The energy is all there and we play all the guitars and sing of top of it, so in a way, it's like the old ways of recording."

On feelings of pressure regarding the band's third album:

"There's pressure but I also like the challenge.  I think it is the CAVALERA CONSPIRACY's most and intense and fastest record yet.  I am very proud of it."

GWAR Manager Gives Update Regarding The Passing of Dave Brockie


Jack Flanagan, manager of GWAR has issued this official statement:

On behalf of Dave Brockie's family, Slave Pit Inc. and GWAR, we would like to thank all the loyal fans worldwide for the outpouring of love and support shown to us over the past few days.  Knowing that we have such amazing family, friends and fans is truly helping us all get through this tough time.

We are awaiting a toxicology report from the medical examiners office to confirm the cause of death. The medical examiners office has informed us that the results can take one to three months to be processed. Standard protocol exists that a toxicology procedure be performed.

We have made funeral arrangements and a private memorial has been scheduled for close friends and family.

As Dave and Oderus would have wanted, this year's GWAR-B-Q scheduled for August 16th at Hadad's Lake (7900 Osborne Turnpike Richmond, VA) will still take place as planned. We have scheduled the Dave Brockie public memorial to take place the day prior to the GWAR-B-Q, Friday August 15th, also at Hadad's Lake.

Goatwhore Announces New Album


GOATWHORE's new album, "Constricting Rage of the Merciless," is scheduled for release in Europe on July 4th.

"Constricting Rage of the Merciless" was recorded with producer Erik Rutan at Mana Recording Studios in St. Petersburg, FL. This is GOATWHORE's fourth studio outing with Rutan at the helm, and to achieve an even more dark and powerful tone on this album, all drums, bass, and rhythm guitars were tracked to 2-inch tape! Fans will hear new music within the next few weeks at metalblade.com/goatwhore.

 Erik Rutan commented on the recording sessions: "Working with Goatwhore again for our 4th album together was amazing! It is through our experience and established trust and bond in the studio that allowed us to push each other to the limits, only to achieve the best performances and tones we could. This album came out so dynamic and huge, partly due to the fact that we recorded drums, bass, and main rhythm guitars to analog tape. Goatwhore has a massive sound and we all felt recording to analog would be the best way to capture it, giving it a very unique quality and feel, built off of integrity and vibe. This is our finest moment working together and the guys did an incredible job creating and performing all the songs on this record. Goatwhore fans be prepared!"

TRACKLISTING:

 1. Poisonous Existence In Reawakening
 2. Unraveling Paradise
 3. Baring Teeth For Revolt
 4. Reanimated Sacrifice
 5. Heaven's Crumbling Walls Of Pity
 6. Cold Earth Consumed In Dying Flesh
 7. FBS
 8. Nocturnal Conjuration Of The Accursed
 9. Schadenfreude
 10. Externalize This Hidden Savagery

In other news, GOATWHORE's "A Haunting Curse" and "Carving Out the Eyes of God" are being pressed on vinyl for the first time ever! "A Haunting Curse" has been printed in a triple gatefold vinyl (250x 180g black vinyl, 150x "beer" colored vinyl P5, 100x "beer" / dark brown splattered vinyl). "Carving Out the Eyes of God" is in a gatefold sleeve (250x 180g black vinyl, 150x silver vinyl P19, 100x clear / black splattered vinyl). Both are available for pre-order at www.emp.de and at http://stores.ebay.de/METAL-BLADE-RECORDS-EUROPE-Shop

My Little Pony Equestria Girls Rainbow Rocks Short "Music to My Ears Clip"


Hasbro's My Little Pony Equestria Girls spin off series will release 7 shorts 2 of which have been released. This is the first short featuring everyone's favorite DJ, DJ-Pon3 or Vinyl Scratch! These shorts and the new book novelization "Rainbow Rocks" are prequels to the upcoming Equestria Girls sequel due out in theaters and DVD this fall. Check out the video HERE.

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

EXODUS Sign with Breaking Bands LLC and The Agency Group


Legendary thrash metal band EXODUS is pleased to announce their recent signing with Breaking Bands LLC and The Agency Group. Breaking Bands LLC is directed and founded by the powerhouse team of Testament vocalist and co-manager Chuck Billy, Adrenaline PR CEO Maria Ferrero, and former MegaForce Records and Crazed Management owners Jon and Marsha Zazula.

Maria Ferrero states, “Working with EXODUS in this capacity has been an ongoing conversation that we finally solidified. The band and I have a continuous history, since 1984 to be exact. I am a true fan of their music, so I look forward to being a part of taking this band to the highest level.”

Maria asked us to join forces and manage bands together. When she told us our first project would be EXODUS there we're smiles from cheek to cheek,” adds Jon Zazula. “EXODUS has been ready to explode for years and the time has come. 2014 will be the year that EXODUS blasts off to an unstoppable assent like never before. We can't wait to be part of it.”

 Chuck Billy adds, “I’m excited to be a part of this, I am forever Bonded By Blood!”

 As mentioned above, EXODUS has also signed with The Agency Group, who are known for booking some of today’s biggest and best artists. The band is proudly represented by agents Dan Rozenblum in North and South America, and Tom Taaffe in Europe and Asia.

 Dan Rozenblum states, “EXODUS remains as one of my favorite bands of all time, and words cannot describe how pleased I am that we are now able to assist the band to reach fans around the globe.”

Tom Taaffe adds, “EXODUS is one of the most integral bands in metal music from the last thirty years. The amount of bands that they have influenced is staggering. It’s great to be working with them and it’s an exciting prospect that The Agency Group will be taking them to all corners of the globe going forward.”

 EXODUS recently announced their participation in a monumental upcoming tour with headliners Slayer and additional special guests Suicidal Tendencies. This metal-head’s “dream tour” kicks off on May 9th in Salt Lake City, UT, and hits six more cities, including a stop at the world-famous Rock On The Range festival on May 17th in Columbus, OH.

Gary Holt will perform double-duty on this run as guitarist for his band EXODUS, while also filling in for Slayer's fallen guitarist Jeff Hanneman.

In addition, EXODUS will perform in Germany and Belgium

TOUR DATES:

EXODUS US TOUR with SLAYER, SUICIDAL TENDENCIES:

5/9 - Salt Lake City, UT @ The Great Salt Air
5/10 - Denver, CO @ The Fillmore Auditorium
5/11 - Billings, MT @ Shrine Auditorium
5/13 - Kansas City, MO @ Uptown Theater
5/15 - St. Louis, MO @ The Pageant
5/16 - Milwaukee, WI @ Eagles Ballroom
5/17 - Columbus, OH - Rock on the Range @ Columbus Crew Stadium

EXODUS INTERNATIONAL DATES:

7/11 - Balingen, Germany @ Bang Your Head Festival
7/12 - Antwerp, Belgium @ Antwerp Metal Festival

Justin Dzuban Releases New Single


Justin Dzuban’s smooth vocal delivery and classic arrangements fly high on his new single, “Shakedown.” His sultry mix of Americana country and classic rock comes from the simplistic use of  electric guitars, eccentric vocal arrangements, and reverberating electric piano melodies. “Shakedown” could be lifted straight from the grooving 60’s, with a simplistic production approach that allows listeners to focus on the essence of the music. Lead by his baritone voice and accompanied with soulful back up vocals, a rhythm guitar that drives with an off beat swagger and upbeat dynamic, woven into, a fat and live sounding drum-kit that is the very backbone of the song.  The instrumental break evokes a more serious tone, the electric guitar calling and responding as the soul of the back up vocals build to a climactic, gospel sound that paves the way for a rich kaleidoscope of electric guitar solo. It loops you straight back to the foot tapping groove, satisfying the listener with a full circle musical experience. The minimalist distortion and unexpected path of the track is a throwback to the days when music was made to be listened to, from lengthy beginning to languid end, it’s addictive and surprising. Be sure to take a listen to Justin Dzuban’s new track, “Shakedown”  - LP out June 17th, 2014. Check out the song HERE.

Soul Thrower Releases Video for "Skeleton Dance"


Soul Thrower have released their new video for the song "Skeleton Dance" it's their leading single off their latest album "The Beginning of Dark Nights".

Val's comment: "I think it is a perfect video for this song and vice versa. Who doesn't like dancing naked chick with an attitude?! I do! I love everything about it- it's erotic, it's got some evilness and of course the naughtiness which I like the most. Perfect!"

The producer & the mastermind behind the video Indrek Kasesalu: "When Val approached me with the whole idea of making a video to "Skeleton Dance" I immediately envisioned a picture of dancing neon skeletons. The entire process of editing and animating (aside from my day job) took me about 2 months. I hope it was worth it and people will dig the result."

Check out the video HERE.

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Feint Scars To Release New Album Think What You Like. Say What you Want


Coldstone Records are proud to announce the debut album from UK song writing duo, Feint Scars.

The album ‘Think What You Like. Say What You Want’  due for general release on 14th April 2014 takes the listener on a bitter sweet journey through love and loss, depression and drug addiction, blurred into melodic electropop, sieved through dark alternative rock roots.

Feint Scars are Den Dicker & Ian Barnes.  Having toured extensively with past projects, and spent time recording and producing other acts, the collaboration was born in 2013, focused on ‘an old sound made new’ drawing inspiration from their vast collection of music from rock & pop, alternative & electronica.

Teaser tracks to the album can be found at https://soundcloud.com/feint-scars and on the website http://www.feintscars.com The album will be available for digital download from all major distributors from 14th April 2014.

Maggie's Video for "Tidal Waves and Hurricanes" Released


Maggie have released a new video for "Tidal Waves and Hurricanes" check it out HERE.

The Agonist New Singer and New Song



Montreal, Quebec, Canada-based melodic death metallers THE AGONIST have released their first group photo featuring new vocalist VICKY PSARAKIS. The Agonist tapped acclaimed photographer VON WONG to bring their new single "Disconnect Me" to life.

The Agonist guitarist DANNY MARINO says: "After working with Von Wong on our Prisoners photo shoot we knew he was the only one that could realize our vision for Disconnect Me. It was an 18 hour shoot but at the end of the day it was more than we could have hoped for."

The official lyric video for the new song "Disconnect Me" from THE AGONIST can be seen HERE.

THE AGONIST announced the addition of singer Vicky Psarakis to the group's ranks. Vicky joins THE AGONIST as the replacement for Alissa White-Gluz, who left the band to focus on her new gig as the frontwoman of ARCH ENEMY.

Comments THE AGONIST in a statement: "We announce that after three albums and countless tours, we officially part ways with vocalist Alissa White-Gluz. We wish Alissa all the best with ARCH ENEMY and her future endeavors.

"It is the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for THE AGONIST! We are thrilled to announce the newest addition to the THE AGONIST family. Please give a warm welcome to very talented vocalist Vicky Psarakis!"

Years Since The Storm's Kyle Wesolowski Talks the Hatred that They've Created



Metalcore/ nu-metal act Years Since the Storm is one of few bands out there that unrelentingly demonstrates this level of musicianship, business acumen, public image, and live performance in a single package. With a sound that you can’t help but bang your head to, they’re determined to take the world by Storm. Drummer Years Since the Storm is one of few bands out there that unrelentingly demonstrates this level of musicianship, business acumen, public image, and live performance in a single package. With a sound that you can’t help but bang your head to, they’re determined to take the world by Storm. Drummer Kyle Wesolowski discuss with me the band's latest release "Hopeless Shelter" as well as their plans for the bright and mighty future.


1. Why is there only hatred in the hopeless shelter you have created?

Kyle: My mind was in a very dark place during the writing process of this album. Everything seemed so pointless and I sort of created this "prison cell" in my head full of anxiety, anger, and disgust for everyone and everything. I couldn't stand the way people acted and I never wanted to be around anyone, and I didn't see any chance of those feelings fading, so needless to say, everything felt pretty hopeless.

2. You guys are from Massachusetts but have been dealing with some cold and chilly weather, so how can you guys be Years Since the Storm when you're dealing with them?

Kyle: Originally, I came up with the name Years Since the Storm when I was in New Orleans about two or three years after Hurricane Katrina hit there. I drove through a lot of neighborhoods that got hit real hard and saw a lot of the destruction and devastation. The name just popped into my head and it felt right so I went with it.

3. Your genre of choice is metalcore/nu metal why go with these genres out of everything available?

Kyle: Everyone wants to sub-genre the shit out of everything these days. It's so nit-picky and ridiculous. We take influence from many different genres and in my opinion, none of them define our sound whatsoever so we just go with what we feel is closest and what we take the most influence from.

4. What brought about the creation of Years Since the Storm and is there a long history of music appreciation between each of the members?

Kyle: Basically, I came up with the idea to form a band once I discovered my at-the-time thriving local scene, and picked up Snapper along the way through advertisements that we needed a guitarist. We pretty much clicked right off the bat musically and evolved with each other from there. I can only speak for myself as far as my history of music appreciation, but I grew up in a family where music was always an important aspect of everyday life. My dad brought me up on classic and alternative rock and I always had a passion for rhythm and how you can create something so intriguing out of wood, strings, and skins. It's pretty incredible, and has consumed my life for as long as I can remember.
 
5. How did you guys come to get signed with Artery Recordings? How has your relationship been with them? Why did you think that these guys would be the label for you?

Kyle: Our manager, Scott Lee, is tight with Mike Milford of Artery Recordings. He asked Mike to give us a listen and he loved what he heard and decided to put his faith in us and add us to his already bolstering roster. As far as our relationship with them goes, we actually just met them all for the first time at the South by South West showcase in Austin, Texas. They're all incredible dudes and were extremely warm and welcoming to us. We can already tell that we will be a great match with them and very much look forward to what this strong team can do for us in the future.

6. You have shared the stage with various bands alike. Are there any bands that have inspired the overall sound of Years Since the Storm?

Kyle: Trying to remember all the bands that we have shared the stage with in the past five or six years is a task all in its own. For the sake of that, I can't really dive into any specifics as far as exact bands. However, I will say that every band that I get the opportunity to watch and share the stage with I always am sure to take with me a little piece of what each of them has to offer. We have shared the stage with so many creative minds that I respect and look up to. There is always a lot to be learned.

 7. How much time went into the recording and producing of Hopeless Shelter and are you happy with the results?

Kyle: We threw ideas for the album around for months, but essentially it came down to about two months that we spent doing the main writing and recording process. For me personally, it was my first time writing lyrics for something that was going to be released, but surprisingly for the most part it came with ease. Like I said, I was in a pretty fucked up state of mind so I had no trouble writing what I felt. For never having done it before, I'm damn proud of the results.

8. What was the recording process like this time around? Was there anything different that happened or was it the same old studio thing?

Kyle: It was actually quite a bit different from any experience we have ever had before. Our guitarist, Snapper, engineered the entire thing in his home studio. So it was a lot more comfortable working with someone that I have known for so long. In the past, we've had a certain amount of time to be able to be in the studio due to budget or other people’s schedules so it was nice to be able to come and go as we please and take the time that we needed to make this album everything that we wanted it to be.

9. Can you tell us how this album differs from the previous EP? What can we expect and what is the message behind it?

Kyle: There are so many ways in which Hopeless Shelter differs from the EP. Musically, I'd say we've evolved into a sound that all of us are so much happier to be playing. We all have so much more fun playing the newer songs live because there is so much more energy than the older songs and we're super into that. As far as lyrical content, the EP was us trying to be positive through all the negative that we saw. With the newer material, we just called it like we saw it and said how we felt. It came out a lot more negative, but it felt less forced and more real so to me that felt a lot better than anything we've done before.

10. Could you describe your song writing process? What comes first – the music or the lyrics?

Kyle: I'm always coming up with lines in my head and jotting them down. That's where I create a lot of full songs from, but the music always comes first because I like to structure my lyrics around the rhythm and feel of the instrumentals. If the feel of a certain song doesn't match the lyrical content, it really throws off the final product for me, so I like to hear what it is that I am writing for.

11. What does the band have planned for this year?

Kyle: Touring, touring, and more touring. Catch us on the road, that's where we'll be.

Monday, March 24, 2014

Piqued Jack's Littleladie Talks New EP and Future Activity


The Piqued Jacks are a passionate, powerful and poly chromatic alternative/funk-rock band (of brothers) who have been doing their thing for quite sometime already. Now that they have had some time on their hands to write and record – they have gotten a little release entitled “Just A Machine” an EP that will take the band ever so further into the music scene. Bassist/backing vocalist littleladie discusses the EP and some insight into the band themselves.


1. Introduce yourself, tell me what you do in Piqued Jacks, and how long the band has been together.

littleladle: Hi everybody, I am littleladle, a clumsy big-haired boy. In Piqued Jacks I play the bass, I do backing vocals and I flail on the stage. We've been together as a band since 2006, but we've been together as a band of brothers since the dawn of time.

2. Tell us the brief history of your band.

littleladle: Four guys were born in the same small town in Italy, just over twenty years ago. They immediately became friends, then brothers, then they found the perfect way to express their special chemistry: music. At first “to rehearse” meant “make noise, make the neighbors angry and shoot stupid 10-seconds videos”, but after a couple of years the passion for music prevailed. Between 2010 and 2011 we recorded two EPs, in 2012 we got in touch with the Grammy Nominated producer Brian Lanese and we went to Los Angeles to record our third (and latest) work with him, “Just a Machine”. In January 2013 the album came out and took us to SXSW in Austin, then to Rock in Roma (before Atoms For Peace) and Marea Festival in Italy. This October we moved to Austin, where we immediately started our running Texan tour to promote “Just a Machine” in the US.

3. Where is the band based out of and what is your music scene like there?Are there any local bands you could recommend?

littleladle: Right now we live in Austin, Texas, and here the local scene is completely full of musicians, that's crazy and very challenging. Some of them are really talented, like our new, smashing friends “Knights” (http://music.knightsofficial.com/). But since we've just moved from Italy, we must also mention our favorite band out there: the mind-fucking “Under The Bed” (http://underthebed.bandcamp.com/).

4. What type of band are you?

littleladle: We describe ourselves as a powerful, passionate and poly-chromatic alternative/funk-rock band. We transmit energy, we do it because we love it, and we can make everybody dance, from grannies to kids.

5. Why did you want to name the band Piqued Jacks? What does it symbolize and represent for the band?

littleladle: One day the bass slipped off my hands, and I dropped it on the floor. The jack in the input got bent and, once pulled out, looked like an erect penis. We liked the way it happened, so natural and funny that we decided to make reference to that episode in an implicit way. “Piqued” means “interested in something”, and our jack is interested in music with a spontaneous nature. It's more serious than a sexual allusion, you know.

6. Who are your musical and non-musical influences?

littleladle: Our major musical influences are The Mars Volta, Incubus, QOTSA, The Killers and Biffy Clyro, but everything we listen and we like has an influence on us, both from the underground and the mainstream worlds. Our non-musical influence are the Ninja Turtles.

7. What are your songs about? (What specific themes do they cover?)

littleladle: There are no main themes, we talk about what we live and what we feel. For example, in “Just a Machine” we approached ecological and humanitarian themes (“Welcome to the Future”, “Tourist of an Apocalypse”), along with topics such as happiness (“Youphoric?!), delusion (“Amusement Park”), monsters (“Blackie”) and love (“My Kite”). The common aspect is the imagery we use to talk about those themes, that turns simple, everyday matters in metaphors or stories you can interpret in your own way.

8. Do you write your own songs? (Discuss the songwriting process in detail.)

littleladle: Of course we do, the songs can grow out of jam sessions as well as bass' or piano's or guitar's or drum's parts which we develop together. This process is collective and free, and most of the times we start it improvising. When something good comes out, we feel it: we don't decide to make music, it comes. Once we have that something, we work on the atmosphere we want to give to the song, trying to build it in many different ways. From this point onwards, there isn't a specific path we follow, because every time it's a new juxtaposition of ideas, sounds, experiments and lyrics that could finish in a day, or could evolve for months.

9. Your released your EP Just a Machine, how has it been received by the public/media? What's new in the recording of your music?

littleladle: The record has been well-received by the Italian press, and got great reviews from the US one. People loved it everywhere it has been played, making us really proud and happy of our work. We also had to print it again!

10. What are your dreams and goals?

littleladle: Since we started to work hard and believe strongly in our project, our goals came closer to our dreams. We don't want to be famous or something, our goal is to communicate to people what we feel when we make and play music. And we want to do it as our job, because that would be our best satisfaction ever.
Obviously, there are dreams that we don't consider as goals, like playing at Wembley Stadium or hangin' out with Jack White.

11. What should labels/zines/promoters know about your band? Why should they be interested in it?

littleladle: The way we make music, so spontaneous and free, the personal energy we put in it and
the continuous crossover we make with other genres, exploring music as a whole. Plus, we do our best to be professional in every occasion, taking care of every aspect of our music (stage clothes, artworks, connections with fans, merchandise, etc.). We think that they should be interested because our music represents our simple and powerful story, because it is something new and totally genuine...and that's rare. Our background is very simple and pure, our music is the result of those things. Thanks to this, with our passionate live shows we can really and naturally captivate not only people's attention, but even their souls'.

12. Where can we listen to your band and where can we buy your stuff?

littleladle: You should visit our SoundCloud page (https://soundcloud.com/piquedjacks), there you can find all our official releases along with b-sides or extra and free-downloadable songs (if you prefer live versions, just go to our YouTube channel http://www.youtube.com/user/fourPiquedJacks). To buy our stuff, choose what you prefer: Bandcamp (http://piquedjacks.bandcamp.com/), iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/it/artist/piqued-jacks/id410878655) or Spotify. Wanna save the Earth with our T-shirts? Need a “rescue capsule” for your space missions? Here's our Official Store (http://www.piquedjacks.com/#!store/c1axk).

13. What plans do you have for the near future as a band?

littleladle: We are playing in every city of Texas focusing on our latest EP “Just a Machine”, but we've been working on new songs and ideas since June. Once we finish this tour (January 2014) we'll start developing a defined concept for a new album, with a new image for the whole band and our whole world.

14. What is it you’d like a listener to remember the most when hearing your music for the first time?

littleladle: The intense feeling of listening to heart-made music.

15. Any final words of wisdom?

littleladle: We don't think we are wise enough, three weeks ago we got our van towed away for two consecutive days. We can give a little, fundamental advice: come to see us playing live; even if you are not interested, we'll make you Piqued.

A Breach Of Silence "Night Rider" Video Released


A BREACH OF SILENCE have premiered their ground-breaking new music video for the band’s latest single Night Rider via Bloody-Disgusting.com. The ambitious music video literally puts the viewer “in the boots” of the green-faced undead lead character, and into the action of western-style shootouts, fist fights, and a dramatic showdown. Join our heroic vigilante, Night Rider as he shows a group of outlaws terrorizing a peaceful town, who’s boss.

Night Rider pays homage to two of the band’s favorite pastimes- 1960’s classic westerns and first-person shooter videogames. It was directed by Steven Caldwell of Caldwell Entertainment, features gun slinging bandits, a cast of more than sixty actors, and an undead heroic vigilante known as “Night Rider”.

“For the Night Rider video, we wanted to do a really cool story line about a character we created called Night Rider” states guitarist Mat Cosgrove. “He’s an undead cowboy whose mission is to take anyone bad or evil back to the deep dark fiery pit where he came from. We as a band use this character as a medium to tell our stories, experiences, and learning’s of life. The true meaning of the song is that, you can make mistakes, and fail at things, but it’s the mistakes and failings that make you who you are. The Night Rider is a vigilante of sorts, he is initially arrested by the law, but when some local bad guys shoot up the town and gun down the sheriff and his deputies, he’s released from prison to carry out justice and uphold the law.”

Check out the video HERE.

YELLOWCARD SIGNS TO RAZOR & TIE RECORDS


Yellowcard has signed to Razor & Tie for a worldwide multi-album deal that will see the release of a new studio album this Fall.

Yellowcard comments, "We are beyond excited for what lies ahead. There are so many amazing opportunities on the horizon for us, and we are stoked to have a new partner in Razor & Tie."

Razor & Tie Co-Owners Cliff Chenfeld and Craig Balsam add, “It's great to have Yellowcard on Razor & Tie.  They make rock the way we like it -- with energy, hooks and attitude. They are total pros and we couldn't be more proud to work with them.” 

ARCH ENEMY Releases "War Eternal" Video


Arch Enemy's new video for the song "War Eternal" has been released and can be seen HERE.

Dave Brockie Lead Singer and Founder of Metal Band GWAR Passes Away


Science fiction/horror film inspired go getters with their obscene lyrics and graphic stage performances with various themes to boot called only as GWAR has had a saddening incident, their main frontman vocalist Oderus Urungus or Dave Brockie has passed away. The cause of death will be determined by a full autopsy.

The band's manager Jack Flanagan, has issued this official statement:

"It is with a saddened heart, that I confirm my dear friend Dave Brockie, artist, musician, and lead singer of GWAR passed away at approximately 6:50 PM EST Sunday March 23,2014.  His body was found Sunday by his band mate at his home in Richmond, VA. Richmond authorities have confirmed his death and next of kin has been notified.   A full autopsy will be performed.  He was 50 years old, born August 30, 1963. My main focus right now is to look after my band mates and his family. More information regarding his death shall be released as the details are confirmed."

Friday, March 21, 2014

3D In Your Face - Midnight Devils


When you think of the 80's era you may think of movies, television shows or the music the music being a big aspect of it. A lot of artists and bands can be remembered from that era including Billy Idol, Duran Duran, and Tears For Fears among others, and to this day the 80's refuses to go away in other acts claiming it's name, i.e. Steel Panther or very similar act 3D In Your Face.

3D In Your Face is like Steep Panther bringing back the time and age of that of Van Halen, Kiss, Motley Crue, Ratt, LA Guns, and Poison, they got that big hair, loud guitars, crazy vocals and even crazier make-up it, has these guys knowing what they are doing and it shows like no tomorrow on their latest album "Midnight Devils". This album really brings you back to the 80's with songs like "Forbidden City", "Generation Durt", "In Your Face", Bleed Betty Bleed" and power ballad "Your Face Always Brings Me Back", these guys have got the talent all over this album. it's that good. Even the lyrical context is very 80's staying true to that sex, drugs, and rock n' roll vibe it's truly party hardy music!


The lyrics and instrumentals are again good,  so good there's no other words to describe them because as said it's that good. 3D In Your Face are one of those 80's bands that are out there but tend to stand out just a bit more than the rest.

3D In Your Face's Sam Gets In Your Face!


Do you like loud, heavy, crazy, heavy metal? If you do then you will now know nation's number one 80's hair metal tribute band around, 3D In Your Face! They have released a new album recently and have been playing shows on and off with so much more they want to do it's truly crazy! Bassist Sam "Spade" Morris discusses the band's latest release and plans for the year!


1. You say that your band is an 80's hair metal tribute band, so are you a tribute band or a real band?

Sam: To be honest with you we are the best of both worlds. On one hand we've put together one of the wildest 80’s shows on the planet.  The lights, the pyro, the lasers, the makeup, and all the big hair hit’s from the decade of decadence.  On the other hand we have released 4 of our own original albums, the latest being “Midnight Devils” released on Dec. 6th, 2013.  So on any given night you will hear some of your favorite 80’s tunes as well as some 3D In Your Face original Rock N Roll.

2. Please tell us about the history of your band and its members.

Sam: 3D In Your Face was started as an idea back in 1999 by founding member and lead singer Alan ‘Hot Rod’ King.  Back in 1999 music in general had grown quite weird and nobody was putting on a show for their audiences.  Alan had toured with Rock N Roll groups during the 1980’s and wanted to bring back the Rock N Roll spectacle that had been so prevalent to shows during that era.  3D In Your Face was born and flourished for many years because of the group’s die-hard work ethic.  It was strictly by the book 80’s Rock N Roll and fans all over the Midwest couldn't get enough.

After many lineup changes drummer Jeremy ‘The Playboy’ Deans was brought in and has been a permanent member for 5 years.  A true student of the Tommy Lee school of drumming.  Playboy delivers the goods every night and makes it look really good.  Playboy joined 3D In Your Face after playing with a few of Omaha’s finest metal bands OX-45, Sin, and Di-Fi.

Chris ‘Sniper’ Hineline joined 3D In Your Face 4 years ago by chance after a former guitar player quit the band the night of a huge show.  Stepping out onto the stage in front of 1,000 screaming kids, Sniper let his presence be known.  Sniper also toured throughout most of the 1980’s in working bands, a true guitar virtuoso and unapologetic fan of Eddie Van Halen.  Sniper has become the ring leader on stage calling out the shots and keeping the troops in line.

Last but not least I joined 3D In Your Face at the tender age of 20.  Before I was even legally allowed to drink, these guys brought me in as their guitar tech.  I toured with the group for 8 years on the side of the stage.  At the time I was also playing guitar with two national touring punk rock bands Officially Terminated and Bandit Sound.  About 3 years ago the bass player at the time, up and quit the group.  So I stepped up and learned all the tunes and transitioned into the band without missing a beat.

3. What makes you guys all 3D In Your Face?

Sam: Have you seen our hair?  3D In Your Face has become a way of life.  It’s an over-the-top, high octane Rock N Roll party on wheels.  It’s true passion for music and giving our fans the biggest, loudest, and wildest show we can possible give them.  It’s denim and leather, studded belts, and eye liner.  It’s standing up for what you believe in.  It’s not taking sh#t for the way you dress or the way you brush your hair.  It’s about wearing KISS shirts every day of the week if you want.  Honestly 3D In Your Face is about being yourself and being proud of it.  Stand up for what you believe in.

4. Why turn to the 80's era of all things for your band, what is it about the 80's for you guys that made it stand out and want you guys to take it into the musical aspect?

Sam: The 80’s gave us some of the biggest guitar oriented rock songs ever.  It was the last great decade for music originality.  The music was still pure, raw, and emotional then.  It was exciting and dangerous all in one.  I think each guy in this group will tell you something different.  I myself was drawn to the rebellion of the 80’s rock as well as the magic of the theatrical rock performance.  Growing up in the Midwest there were very few escapes from reality and Rock N Roll became my escape.

5. While your an 80's type of band do you take the 80's label to heart, like act 80's, appeal and hairstyle, with everything else in between?

Sam: Absolutely.  Leather jackets and jeans aren't just for the shows.  We live this every day and night.  In our down time we are rehearsing and practicing our instruments.  Watching KISS videos and going to shows.  The hair is always up.  Whether it’s part of the 80’s or not, being in a working rock band is the greatest job in the world.  I am proud of that and love showing it off.

6. Can you tell me about the "Boys Behind The Hair" series you guys had done, what was it about, why did you want to go and do it?

Sam: That was an idea I had to have a special guest blogger (Jim Kauffman) a die-hard 3D In Your Face fan, interview each band member and ask them some questions about our personal lives.  The idea was to give our fans a glimpse of where each one of us came from and why we do what we do in this band.  I think it was great and shed a new light on each member of this band.   It brought each band member down to a personal level with our fans, which is something a lot of bands have trouble doing.

7. How has the reaction to your latest CD been?

Sam: The reaction has been overwhelming.  People love the new songs and the new direction we took for this album.  Recently Demon Dolls Records started selling some of our CD's also Perris Records bought a bunch to distribute overseas.  This is the most records I have ever sold and I am totally blown away by the reaction the new album has been getting from critics and fans alike.  Even my punk rock-loving friends seem to dig this album.  It’s an honest Rock N Roll record for Rock N Roll fans.

8. How long did this CD take to make from start to finish, recording-wise?

Sam: The writing process took almost two years because we never took a break from touring to sit down and write this new record.  So on top of playing. Traveling, and touring we were writing and rehearsing.  Once we got all the songs down we took two weeks off and barricaded ourselves into the studio.  We did it right.  We slept together, ate together, and lived together for two weeks.  I don’t think I have ever laughed so hard in my life.  Two weeks later the most of the tracks where done except a few vocals and lead guitar solos.  We finished those up a few weeks later and began post production and art for the cover and sleeve.

9. What kind of 'sound', production wise, did you have in the back of your mind, prior to entering the studio?

Sam: Every band says this, but we wanted to try and capture that raw vibe and live sound in the studio. So we set up the drums, bass, and guitar rigs in different rooms of the studio. Then we all came back to the drum room and played the tracks live standing next to each other.  Each song was basically recorded live except the vocals, and rhythm guitar tracks. Sniper surprised all of us and played most of the solo leads live with the rest of the band.  As soon as the record button was pushed we were off.  Very few cut-ins. What you hear is basically the band live in real time.  

10. What kind of input did the producer have during the process?

Sam: Our producer was Troy Way, our live sound engineer.  He came in and wasn't happy with a lot of the process.  He is the guy that has to hear it a front-of-house every night.  He probably has the best musical ear out of anyone I have ever met.  The whole process was relatively new to me and I think Troy took these tracks and turned them into gold.  I really look forward to working with him more in-depth for the next album.

11. And are you pleased with the final outcome? (sound - production wise)

Sam: Totally.  I think we got the sound we were looking for.  I know for a fact that we will be using this same recording process for the next album.  Raw, dirty, Rock N Roll.

12. Did the producer use any (weird) experimental miking and/or recording techniques?

Sam: Not that I can remember.  But the whole thing was quite weird and quite surreal.  I was just on cloud nine being there and seeing these songs finally come to life.  I could have sat in that studio another two weeks I was so happy.

13. How did you go on about capturing your 'live sound' in the studio, or perhaps you didn't?

Sam: Like I said before, all the drum, bass, and lead guitar tracks were basically played live.  We all stood together in the same room.  The amps were spaced out in different rooms and we listened to each other through the head phones.  Once the red light came on it was do or die.  The pressure was on.  Time to perform or do it again until you get it right.  It was 100 degrees and we were sweating like dogs.  It was glorious.

14. Please inform us about your favorite songs and lyrical highlights and why?

Sam: My favorite song on the album is the title track Midnight Devils.  That song very reminiscent of The Misfits or Danzig.  The lyrics are about the feeling that you get on a Saturday night when the sun goes down.  The possibilities are endless and the night is now yours so capture it.  Make some memories, have some fun, and live life like there is no tomorrow.  Everybody changes whether good or band when the sun goes down.
15. Any overall theme of mood that you're trying to capture while writing songs?

Sam: Usually when I write a song I try and come from a very honest place.  It seems to be easier for me to write about a something that has happened to me.   I also like to write about emotions that I feel particularly strong about.  Like the song “I Still Believe In Rock N Roll” is pure and simply me feeling like I am the last guy that still believes in the power of Rock N Roll.  Obviously I know that’s not true but sometimes I feel like an outsider because I love this music so much.  I came from a punk rock background and I try to incorporate those influences in my writing.  It usually turns out to be quite interesting.   80’s glam music mixed with punk rock angst.  Sniper on the other hand writes from a purely sexual place.  Take “Squeeze Me Dry” for example, there is no mistake about what he is talking about in this song.

16. Does your vision for coming up with music get affected at all by time?

Sam: Yeah it does.   I love writing in the moment and I love writing about those feelings right when they are happening.  Usually that is almost impossible so I will scribble down the idea and revisit it when I get time.  As long as the emotion gets down on paper and there is a record of this event happening I can go back and get in that mood and finish the idea I was working on at the time.  Not only does time affect the writing and vision but the music that I am listening to at the time affects it equally as much.  Whether it be tunes by The Who, The Dolls, KISS, Crashdiet, Sister, or Hanoi Rocks every songs affects the song I am writing.

17. Did the record company interfere with anything on your "sound" and songs?

Sam: Nope because we are lucky enough to still be an independent artist.  Of course we knew we had to stay in the boundaries of heavy metal and Rock N Roll because that’s what our fans were expecting.  Other than that there were no rules or regulations and let me tell you that felt quite liberating.  With so much pressure on everything else we wanted the songs to represent a place and a time in our lives as a working band on the road.

18. Are there any 'crazy' behind the scenes anecdotes from these sessions that you can share with us?

Sam: Not sure about any anecdotes but I have a good story for you.  After we finished the entire album we sent if off to get manufactured.  We ordered 1,000 CD's and they arrived on the Thursday before the album release show on Friday Dec. 6th.    If you have ever seen 1,000 CD's you realize how many that actually is and the challenge set before you.   So I opened the first box and marveled at the CD art.  I read the thanks and made sure everything looked like I wanted it to look.   Even our producer Troy Way looked it over.   We never thought to actually put the disc in the player.  I got to rehearsal later that night and the boys asked how it sounded.  So I slapped in the player and I was shocked by what came out.  Country music.  The manufacturer messed up and put another bands country music EP on 1,000 of our brand new albums.  I freaked out and the guys just rolled on the floor laughing.  What can you do?  Eventually it all worked out and we had 100 pressed in Omaha to make the release.  But somewhere out there are 100 “Midnight Devils” CD's with country music underneath.

19. How would you describe the sound of your new CD to any potential new fan?

Sam: Rock N Roll.  It’s 80’s inspired guitar Rock with a modern feel.  Glam metal for the next generation.  We weren't trying to rewrite Appetite.  We wanted our own album.  We wanted to put all of our influences and experiences together and shake them up and see what came out.

20. Who are your influences and heroes? (music-wise)

Sam: I will give you three.  The first and most important is Elvis Presley, The King of Rock N Roll.  Before Elvis there was nothing.  Elvis was the true Rock N Roll pioneer.  He was smooth and charismatic.  He wrote the book when it came to songwriting and liver performances.  There never was a bigger rockstar than Elvis Presley.  RIP.

Ace Frehley was the sole reason I picked up a guitar.  By the age of 17 I was obsessed with KISS.  My parents went out and bought me a Les Paul guitar and I started taking lessons.  By 18 I had joined my first band.  KISS was the coolest band out there.  The blood, the makeup, the chicks.  I wasn't the most popular kid in school but KISS made it so that didn't even matter.  I was so inspired by the riffs and melodies I just had to be in a band.  Ace Frehley made me realize that this is what I wanted to do with my life.

Johnny Thunders the glam punk visionary. Johnny represented anger and defiance. The New York Dolls did it their way and were uncompromisingly unapologetic about it. Thunders made me fall in love with Rock N Roll again.

21. What are your songs about? (What specific themes do they cover?)

Sam: I will tell you what all 12 songs mean off the album;

1. Forbidden City – This song is about graveyards/necropolises, cities of the dead.  Towns built in order to house the earthly remains of people that have passed away.

2.Generation Durt – Is a song about being broke and having nothing but still not ready to give up.  Fighting for every inch.  Being beat down by society but standing tall.

3.  In Your Face – Is a song Sniper wrote so I can’t really say.

4.  Midnight Devils – is about everybody changing when the sun goes down for better or worse.

5. Always Brings Me Back – Hot Rod wrote this song.

6.  Sleeping in Omaha – This song is about believing there is more out there.   Follow your dreams.

7.  Bleed Bettty Bleed – Is a straight up Rock N Roll song about a small town girl that found Rock N Roll and it changed her life.  A crowd favorite and the only song on the album that I sing.

8.  Underneath The Stairs – Was actually written about The Amittyville horror and the movie of the same subject.

9. Radar Guided Love Bomb – I was trying to write a song about a girl.  A real bombshell , if you get my drift.  I was searching for those sexual innuendos that were so prevalent in the 70s and 80s.  The song could be taken a few different ways.

10.  Time We had Our Fun – This is a punk rock song that I wrote to kind of put closure on my former band that I loved, Bandit Sound.  We toured together for many years and it ended abruptly and I think I was still a bit bitter.

11.  Squeeze Me Dry – This song was written by Sniper.

12.  I Still Believe In Rock N Roll – Pretty self explanatory song.  I still believe.

22. Do you write your own songs? (Discuss the songwriting process in detail.)

Sam: Yes.  The song writing process is very different than many bands.  Sniper and I usually work as a team, bouncing ideas back and forth off of each other.  There are a few cases that one guy will take the reins on a song and write the whole thing himself.  Usually it’s quite a team effort.  We will get the riff and melodies knocked out then the lyrics.  Next the song will move from Sniper’s basement to the rehearsal studio where we will give it to the drummer and he will put his mark on the song.  By then the whole idea is starting to breath and it usually is nowhere close to the original idea.  It quite the amazing process.

23. What are the plans that you guys have for the future, shows, and touring that we should know about?

Sam: Right now we are finishing up a residency at a club in Omaha, Nebraska.  Every Friday night we throw a Rock N Roll celebration at The 21st Saloon.  The residency will last until mid May 2014.  Then we will begin our summer tour which consists of motorcycle rallies, street dances, festival, clubs, private parties, barn dances, and everything in-between.  Of course the ultimate goal is to play as many shows in as many different cities as possible.  So if you are reading this and are interested in booking us please contact amking4@cox.net.  We would love to come and spread the good word in your town.  We are setting things up right now so that after the summer tour we can hit the studio again and put out another album while our momentum is still high.  Back in the day bands put out new albums every year like clockwork and I think we are shooting for that with 3D In Your Face.

24. If there's anything you'd like to add, say, please do.

Sam: Thank you for this great interview.  IT truly was my pleasure.  If you ever need anything from 3D In Your Face please feel free to ask.  Thanks Natalie. 

Our Last Enemy's Oliver is His Own Demon



Australia's Our Last Enemy has only been around for a few years, but they as any other band, has dealt with band changes, playing shows, and releasing music. They have in fact released two albums a remix "Engineering the Enemy" (2013) and most recent release "Pariah" (2014).  Frontman vocalist Oliver Fogwell discusses the band's past, present, and future.


1. What type of band are you?

Oliver: We get the tag ‘industrial metal’ but that seems too limiting. Most of the reviews we are getting have say how we are much more than that. We have been getting ‘Modern Metal’ lately,  and an interesting one "Progressive Industrial Metalcore" hahaha.

2. Please tell us about the history of your band and its members.

Oliver: Its interesting as most of us have known each other or played with each other from other bands. Our current drummer Zot was in my old band, and Jeff and Matt were a band we used to play with at the time. All the bands fell apart at the same time and we got in touch to do something new. Matt Jeff and I started the band, and we ended up with Zot in years after I played with him. Full circle! Bizz we met through mutual friends when he moved to Australia and we needed a new guitarist. We hit it off instantly!

3. What makes you guys Our Last Enemy?

Oliver: I think it’s the 5 of us, and by that our mean our different personalities and tastes in music. Its really come across in the music we make (although it can resulted in some butting of heads!) as we reviews often talk about our blend of genres, done well of course! It not just ideas thrown together for the sake of it.

4. Who are your musical and non-musical influences?

Oliver: We are so wide and varied. Obviously we all like metal! Bizz loves all things Japanese and listens to some crazy shit, I can relate as I really like experimental type music and I’m a Mike Patton aficionado. Zot is a drum and bass DJ at big clubs here on the side, so his electronic tastes come into play. I think one band we all agree on in the bus is Faith No More!

5. What are your songs about? (What specific themes do they cover?)

Oliver: This record "Pariah" is a loose concept album I guess, revolving around a character that pops up at times of crisis and chaos. Whether he causes it, is merely a witness or just plain unlucky is up for debate. He certainly plays different roles in different songs. As well as these big macroscopic perspectives, there is of course room for a more interior perspective with elements of songs that do relate to my personal feelings on things and situations. I think it’s a nice way to be able to frame those feelings rather than be WOE IS ME FUCK DA WORLD BITCH all the time.

6. Do you write your own songs? (Discuss the songwriting process in detail.)

Oliver: Yes, all of our songs are original. We do play a few covers live from time to time, but nothing is recorded as yet. We try a few different methods as we are always looking for ways to make the writing process easier and more time efficient without loosing creativity. We jam in the room a lot, bouncing ideas off each other, and we also record a lot of stuff at home and share a Dropbox. Its definitely something we are trying to do more these days as everyone’s getting busier and living all over the place! But ultimately its a democracy in the band, and if an idea is liked or disliked by the majority, we move forth as such.

7. Why did you want "10,000 Headless Horses" to be one of your singles off the new album and why make it into a video? Can you tell me about the song and video?

Oliver: This is one of oldest songs as a band, and has always been one of our most popular with fans here in Australia. It’s a live staple of ours and we thought it would be a good introduction for the North American market. When we were thinking of what video to do that was a no brainer. It was voted No.2 Best Heavy Song in Australia for a big magazine here and was also picked up by Rock Band 3 for Xbox. Play along at home! Funnily enough our next single and video (out this month) is one of newest songs, so you get the full spectrum of our career so far with those two tracks.

8. How long did this CD take to make from start to finish, recording-wise?

Oliver: Recording was a few months pre-production here in Australia, then almost 3 months in LA with Christian. I wish it could have been longer! A few of the tracks are from an EP we self released here as well, and they took a month or 2 to do here at a local studio with Clayton Segelov at The Brain Studios. We also included some remixes from a remix album we did here recently, with some cool guys like Mortiis, Angel (Dope) and Travis Neal (Divine Heresy). So really this CD has been years in the making, and really is a "best of " for us, which we think will be a perfect entry into North America.

9. What kind of "sound" production wise, did you have in the back of your mind, prior to entering the studio?

Oliver: We wanted that cold and calculating industrial feel, and the precision machine gun like drums. We also wanted to include as many samples and effects to add atmosphere. I like how a lot of reviewers have said it has a cinematic quality. I’m a huge cinema buff.

10. What kind of input did the producer have during the process?

Oliver: In terms of song structure, we had sent the pre-production demos and he was pretty much happy with all our choices. For me, he added a lot of great vocal tracking ideas. I threw in whispers and spoken takes, doubled a few things here and pulled back on a few things there. Christian considers himself best at producing vocals so I was really lucky.

11. Are you pleased with the final outcome? (sound - production wise)

Oliver: Yes! The world class quality has been spoken about a lot and its definitely something that will help us stand above the millions of garage bands that can so easily put a release out in this technological age. No that I'm against that at all, I like a lot of down and dirty stuff, but for us and our sound it was essential to have a high quality product.

12. Did the producer use any (weird) experimental miking and/or recording techniques?

Oliver: I can’t think of anything particularly weird for my parts, but beer was involved!

13. How did you go on about capturing your "live sound" in the studio, or perhaps you didn't?

Oliver: We pride ourselves on our live show, its rawer and more in your face, and I don’t think a recording could ever catch that. And I like them being two separate beasts. Who likes to go see a band play the CD note for note? I want to have a visceral experience that involves spontaneity and chaos!

14. Please inform us about your favorite songs and lyrical highlights and why?

Oliver: What comes to mind is the track ‘Ants In The Palm’ because funnily enough my girlfriend asked me what this song was about the other night haha I got the title from a phrase in Salvador Dali and Luis Brunel's surrealist short film Un Chien Andalou. It's symbolism represents an itching desire to kill. The character in the song starts off as a bit of a wannabe bad ass, someone who thinks he is capable of these acts but never acts on the impulses. As he gets deeper into his delusions he becomes haunted by memories of acts he didn't commit, but they seem real to him. Whether it’s a past life or just insanity is debatable. It’s kind of like the way you walk out of American Psycho, did he really do all that or was it a madman’s fantasy. Is the character Pariah yet again caught in another twisted life cycle? Some mysteries are better left unsolved.

15. Any overall theme of mood that you're trying to capture while writing songs?

Oliver: Definitely dark and intense, it hits you in the face while still creating an intriguing atmospheric vibe. We all love horror movies so I’m sure that comes across in the mood of many of the songs. 

16. Does your vision for coming up with music get affected at all by time?

Oliver: Its constantly evolving, that’s for sure. As we get exposed to new influences and have new experiences, our perspective on things change. But ultimately I think our vision has stayed true since the start, it just gets bigger!

17. Did the record company interfere with anything on your "sound" and songs?

Oliver: No not at all, as we had recorded all these tracks before we signed the deal. It was the quality of the songs that drew the label to us in the first place, so they didn't want to change a thing.

18. Are there any "crazy" behind the scenes anecdotes from these sessions that you can share with us?

Oliver: When we were recording drums at Temple Studios Xzibit came in (as b-real from cypress hill owns the studio with Raymond from fear factory) to do some recording which was a trip. We also got picked up by some cops as we were walking home from buying beer at 2AM, they heard our accents and said get in the car we will drive you. They knew we were walking targets! Haha! They ended up being metal fans and we had a BBQ at there place later that week. Who woulda thunk it?

19. How would you describe the sound of your new CD to any potential new fan?

Oliver: Its hard and dark, textured and atmospheric while still leaving you feeling like a brick to face by the end! If you like heavy music with depth yet still makes you want to hurl things across the room, this record is for you.

20. What are the plans that you guys have for the future, shows, and touring that we should know about?

Oliver: We are doing a lot of press and promo for this record atm and really looking forward to seeing what happens, the feedback so far has been amazing! If all goes to plan we would love to be seeing you in person up the front later this year.


21. Anything else you'd like to say or would like to add?

Oliver: Thanks so much for taking your time out to do this; we appreciate all the support as we head in North America. Everyone check out our record "Pariah" out now via Eclipse Records at www.eclipserecords.com/our-last-enemy . Hope to see you all soon! \m/