Artizan – s/t EP review

Artizan – s/t EP (independent release)

To be honest, this EP can sum up a whole theory on modern Metal music: Minimalistic approach can be intuitive yet refreshing. It’s so encouraging for  the listeners to enjoy three wonderful musical creations of melodic and pompous Power Metal. Artizan showed the world their “manifest”. Drummer Ty Tammeus and vocalist Tom braden, known from their participation in the renowned US Prog metal band Leviathan (during their first EP and Deepest Secrets Beneath” days) really establishes the band’s reputation. Artizan may not follow a definite Progressive route on their musical approach, but focus on catchy songwriting with strong memorable vocal line and riffs. The result is wonderful and all three songs are a pleasure to listen to. Tom’s vocals are strong and contain that distinctive tone that usually follows the guitar line and makes the band’s sound much more solid and focused. I also have to give credit to Jim Morris and his splendid production; the band recorded the song at t Vision Sound, Orange Park, Florida and the mastering was done at Morrisound Studios, Tampa, Florida, USA, so they definitely picked the right option.
The good news also is that the band signed a contract with Pure Steel Records and their debut album is expected to be release in early 2011. So, you can buy their debut EP via their website or via iTunes instead of waiting for the first full-length and really enjoy an extremely promising US metal band!

Dimitris Starakis

Matthew Mills - The Neoclassical Journey Remastered 2010 CD review

Matthew Mills - The Neoclassical Journey Remastered 2010 CD (Matt Mills Music)

One thing crossed my mind when I got Matthew's fifth solo CD in my hands: "Good to have you back, Man!". For all of us who cannot attend Matthew's shows and guitar clinics, his albums prove that Neoclassical Metal still has some loyal and talented "servants". After I listened to "The Neoclassical Journey", I believe that probably is his best solo effort. The talented virtuoso contributes his finest guitar work in splendid songs like the opener "Thoughts Of Time", which once again highlights his favorite songwriting style: strong, catchy and melodic riffs combined with astonishing guitar cadenzas that established his reputation over the years. "Dark Matter part 2" is deeply emotional, sentimental and European-flavored song, with strong Baroque influences. Matthew reaches the limits of his performance and always tries to set new standards for his favorite musical style. Its difficult to follow a Neoclassical Metal path without being repetitive but Matthew proves this opinion wrong. Just listen to the song "Night Time": Melody and atmosphere combine smoothly and the result is wonderful. For all the above reasons, I cannot stop listening to Matthew's musical creations, even though I am not a guitarist, so that means a lot. 
"The Neoclassical Journey features also two guest appearances: David Shankle (DSG, ex-Manowar) contributes two solos on "Dragon's Fire", while Joe Stump delivers his distinguishable guitar solo in the song "Fire Storm". For all arpeggio fanatics, the closing track of the CD, "Arpeggio Travel part 3" ends Matthew's "arpeggio trilogy" that began in his second album titled "Neoclassical Rock guitar" delivers his insane performance and makes everyone ask for more! "The Neoclassical Journey" is  a highlight of modern Neoclassical Metal, proving that the genre still stands strong. You can buy the album through guitar9.com or digitally download it via iTunes.  Matthew Mill's official web-site

Dimitris Starakis

Arryan Path – Terra incognita CD (Pitch Black Records) CD review

Arryan Path – Terra Incognita CD (Pitch Black Records)

I’ve been following Arryan Path’s career since its early stages and I was fortunate to receive their newest album which should be already considered as the band’s highlight. At the same time, I was curious to find out why this band chose this particular name and I asked the singer of the band, Nicholas Leptos, if the band is connected to any racial segregation theories. Nicholas replied back to me immediately, assuring me that Arryan Path has nothing to do with hate doctrines. I was satisfied to know this, since Magic Starlight ’zine is not associated with extremists and does not support racial hate at all.
“Terra Incognita” begins with one of the finest songs ever composed by the band. “Cassiopeia” is a solid and uplifting Power metal tune, featuring, along with Nicholas’ splendid vocal performance, Vagelis Maranis of Sanvoisen fame! The “vocal duel” is a remarkable effort and really places Cassiopeia among the greatest songs that were released in 2010! The album was recorded and mixed at Maranis Studios in Germany and the band manage to feature Vagelis in the song, while they also gave us the opportunity to realize that he is always in great vocal shape.
    Another favorite of mine is “Open Season”: majestic and triumphant, with wonderful chorus, full of glorious emotion, it definitely brings to mind the finest moments of US Power Metal! The self-titled song of the CD incorporates folk elements of Eastern and Greek music, with the outcome being refreshing and interesting. Moreover, it reflects the intention of the band for broaden mind inspirations and experimentation, something which will not keep them stagnant. “Ishtar” is another pick of “Terra Incognita”, with the Eastern music influences being dominant once again. Some other favorite songs of mine are “Elegy” (melodic, vividly emotional and atmospheric again), “Angel With No Destination” (check out the galloping chorus) and “The Mind” (catchy guitar riff and overall a more simplistic song, yet the same interesting as the others). Every time I listen to an album from the beginning to the end without a single pause or skip, I know it’s a good one. Definitely the best effort from the Cypriots…till the next one (this is a prediction, guys don’t let me down)! Order the CD from their label’s website. Band’s mySpace profile:
Dimitris Starakis

RagenHeart – S/t CD review

RagenHeart – S/t CD (Metal On Metal Records)

Yes, it’s been already almost 4 years since the release of the band’s first demo release titled “In The Name Of God” and time has finally come for this superb band to release its first album. I always distinguish RagenHeart from the average Power Metal bands since they have something special that I really cannot describe it completely. I think it has to do with their music attitude in composing songs that stress emotion, melody and lyricism. Their self-titled debut now prepares the ground for a great career, if they overpass the obstacles that a newcomer band faces in today’s music industry (lack of sources to fund their recordings, poor distribution and a few more). I was from the very beginning obsessed with John Koroneo’s voice: touching, expressive and melodic, plays an important role in the band’s musical structure, while Angel’s fire-blazing guitar work is the band’s trademark. Moreover, RagenHeart compositions ranked them among Greece’s brightest hopes. The album includes re-recorded versions of the tracks featured in their brilliant demo, but also new songs like the opener “Illusion Of Life”, which prepares the ground for the rest of the album. The Eastern music - influenced intro “Winds From The East” and the majestic “Talos” showcase the quality that the Athenian quintet has. “Black Gold” is the darkest RageHeart song and will satisfy the fans that want them with a stronger edge. I also loved the re-recorded songs since the production is better, as expected, with the needed clear and powerful sound. It is really encouraging for the fans not to witness and dull or weak song in a debut, so this is the greatest advantage of this album!

Allow me to feel overwhelmed by the song “Here I Am”. I am pretty sure that if this power ballad was released during the 80’s, it would surely become a huge success. Almost no band can capture the shivering feeling that such a song creates to the listener and I really cannot stop praising this divine musical composition. You should definitely check it for yourselves, since the band rearranged the song and added also a powerful break near its end.

RagenHeart raised our expectations by releasing such a debut. I wish that their follow-up will be out soon. The genre needs bands like this, the brightest hope of the Greek Metal scene.

You can buy RagenHeart’s debut via paypal.com through Metal On Metal's shop. It comes in two editions: Regular CD case and Special Tin Case Edition. Special tin case Edition includes 2 exclusive photos, plus the booklets of the normal case edition CD, Price for regular case is 14 Euro and Special Tin Case Edition costs 18.50 Euro (all above prices include postage + shipping rates worldwide). Here's the link: http://www.metal-on-metal.com/shop.html. Band’s official website and mySpace profile.

Dimitris Starakis

Fibonacci Sequence – Numerology CD review

Fibonacci Sequence – Numerology CD (Fibonacci music / Independent Release)

0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89, 144…..well, you are not reading my futile attemps to write a code or turn Magic Starlight ‘zine into a host for math lovers (well, also math lovers are still welcome here!). What you have just read is the Fibonacci Sequence. Now what is this sequence? Let’s see what Wikipedia tells us about: “By definition, the first two Fibonacci numbers are 0 and 1, and each subsequent number is the sum of the previous two. The Fibonacci sequence is named after Leonardo of Pisa, who was known as Fibonacci (a contraction of filius Bonaccio, "son of Bonaccio"). Fibonacci's 1202 book “Liber Abaci” introduced the sequence to Western European mathematics, although the sequence had been previously described in Indian mathematics”.

So now you got the definition of Fibonacci’s sequence, since you already know the band from Milwaukee, WI that quite amazed me, after listening to their first ever release titled “We Three Kings”. I recently received their debut full-length album titled “Numerology” and since then it is once again my pick when I want to enjoy music that stimulates the soul.

10 instrumental songs cause the desired tension to the mind, which prepares the ground for objective judgement. That is what Socrates believed, so if we accept his opinion, then “Numerology” can act as the gadfly that will upset the status quo in your brain and make you realize that music without vocals is quite expressive and creative. It is really hard to pick up a certain favorite from the album. “Primrose Path” has the most versatile change in a song, from acoustic, groovy style to mystical eastern paths, followed by a sentimental piano solo that makes the song grandiose. “Work In Progress” has brilliant electric guitar and bass work, while acoustic parts and keyboard solos combine so smoothly. “Catlord” can easily become one of the finest and heaviest “hits” of the band. “Io” closes the album with its atmospheric intro and the guitar riffs and solos expresses intensively the word “farewell”. Yes, “Numerology” is a fine piece of art, destined to become an instant classic. I feel so lucky that I have expressed a concern for the band some months ago and believe me, I have already became a fan of their talent. I am sure that you will do the same. Last but not least: “Music without vocals carries the same passion and magic, just let the gadfly free in your mind”. You can (or should I say must?) order the cd through CDbaby or download it via iTunes. Band’s Facebook and mySpace page.

Dimitris Starakis

Innosense's new song, "Revolution Rise"

Innosense,the great Prog band from Larissa, Greece, uploaded a new track titled "Revolution Rise", which is taken from their forthcoming album. Good job guys!

We miss you so much Ronnie James Dio...

Our hearts bleed today...we miss our hero, our light in the black, our Dreamer...from now on, our life will never be the same again...I wish my baby daughter will be inspired from your lyrics Ronnie. You are now immortal and we all Fools want to sail away with you...

Your Greek follower, Dimitris

OSV - Chapter Three CD review

OSV – Chapter Three CD (Independent Release) 

The long-awaited third strike from this highly-talented project is out and it managed to exceed my expectations! Steve Sexton, bassist extraordinaire and Garry Oppert, the octopus-drummer have gathered again the cream of the crop and released a fine CD, full of unique musical ideas.
 “Chapter Three” features again a solid amalgam of talented guitarists, with the renowned Marcel Coenen (Sun Caged, Pre-Lemur Voice etc.) on top of them. OSV’s latest project includes fine guitar works from skillful guitarists like Achilleas Diamantis, Gianluca Ferro, Borge Olsen, Jonas Tamas and Phi Yaan-Zek. The musical project welcomes also multi-talented Russian keyboard player Sergey Boykov, member of the Estonian/Latvian band Shadow Cry. Sergey’s lines are proving that the music world will enjoy  the birth of a new keyboard hero, with some fine melodic arrangements that re-arrange the leading use of keyboards in a band. I was so happy to witness that Sergey contributes some fine keyboard solos in the songs (check out “Perilous Premonitions” and “Strategic Alliance” as a fine example) en route to a leading part in this experimental band. Don’t miss one of the finest keyboardists you’ve listened to lately!
“Chapter Three” is enjoyable from beginning to the end; “Timeless” is definitely a grand pick, while the all-star song “Rhyme Of Reason”, featuring solos from five guitarists, except Marcel, showcases the endless quality that this project has. A-class progressive music, with fusion/experimental musical parts, eastern musical influences (“Seven Times Seventy” is grandiose!), combined with catchy riffs and melody, stuck me on the wall once again! I want to highlight something I will never stop believing: instrumental music should be accepted from all fans since it creates equal emotions, compared to music with vocals. Let yourself free, remove any musical clichés that you might have and enjoy this album to the max. Maybe the best of all OSV releases so far and once again congratulations to Sexton and Oppert for the courage and “mental bravery” to walk against the typical musical paths! You can buy the Cd via cdbaby.com: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/osv3 . You can also download OSV’s stuff via iTunes. Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/osvchapter3 . OSV's facebook profile

Dimitris Starakis

Info Regarding ordering Innerwish's and Ragenheart's new CD's

Many people request info regarding two noticable releases that were announced through this blog, so here we are again to make things simpler and easier for you!


Innerwish's "No Turning Back" is available for pre-order through Ulterium Records' shop. Price is 15.00$ without shipping rates. No checkout is needed, if you have a paypal id !! All you need is to follow this link: http://ulteriumstore.bigcartel.com/product/innerwish-no-turning-back






Ragenheart's self-titled debut CD is already out. You can buy it it now via paypal.com through Metal On Metal's shop! It comes in two editions: Regular Cd case and Special Tin Case Edition. Price for regular case is 14 Euro and Special Tin Case Edition costs 18.50 Euro (all above prices include postage + shipping rates worldwide). Here's the link: http://www.metal-on-metal.com/shop.html



Support the bands by ordering their releases!

Hedda – The Calm Before… EP review

Hedda – The Calm Before… EP (Independent Release)
If you are a US-Metal addict and you’re desperately looking for your daily dose of Americal Steel, then Hedda came to cover your needs. The band from Wisconsin was formed in 2007 by Bassist Jamie Mac and guitarist Kent Herman and began to compose songs for their debut release. On July 2008, Hedda began recording four songs for their first EP "The Calm Before…" and in 2009 the EP came out revealing to the Underground scene the abilities of the band. From the opening song “Never Yield” the band sends their message: Uncompromising, Us Power Metal with triumphant vocals, solid guitar sound and catchy melodic guitar lines. Another favourite of mine was the most melodic song of the EP, titled “Gypsy’s Kiss”. I am sure that Hedda will built their reputation fast since they have the talent to compose fine songs that continue the important Metal heritage that U.S.A. has established over the years. The band is currently offering a new song for free downloading at the following address: http://www.heddatheband.com/HEDDA-media.html and is working for a full-length album that will come out during 2010. The EP costs 5$ for digital downloading and 5$+plus postage if you want it on CD format. Band’s web-site: http://www.heddatheband.com/

Dimitris Starakis

Ragenheart ready to unleash their debut through Metal On Metal Records

Ragenheart's self titled debut is coming out on April 23, 2010 !

Check out the press release info from their Italian label, metal On Metal Records:

"..and the most recent addition to our roster, Greek RAGENHEART won us over with their superbly played melodic heavy/power metal with some prog metal elements, rooted in hard rock. They had released only 1 demo (in 2006), which garnered enthusiastic reviews from all over the world. Since then they've become a much tighter band and perfected their sound, so the debut album "Ragenheart" offers versatile and passionate music with a usually dark and epic mood, remarkable melodies, fantastic singer with great emotion and range and excellent performance by every musician, topped with clean and solid production. Their music should appeal to fans of CONCEPTION, RAINBOW, MAGNITUDE 9, DIO, EVERGREY, HEIR APPARENT, MYSTIC FORCE, CRIMSON GLORY, WHITESNAKE..."

Fibonacci Sequence – We Three Kings EP review

Fibonacci Sequence – We Three Kings EP
When it comes to instrumental music, I am always fond of bands that create it with passion! And this particular trio from Wisconsin does it with style! This two-song EP came out during Christmas, in order to spread the word for the band’s forthcoming debut, “Numerology” and it showcases clearly their great talent! Even though the compositions are lengthy, the songwriting is inspirational. Melody, musical expression and improvising guitar solos with fire blazing arpeggios that take the listener by storm when the band decides to “turn the electricity on”! I also love the bass work on these two songs, while Michael J. Butzen is a virtuoso guitarist that forces the listener to pay attention to his wonderful playing. Both songs, “We Three Kings” and “Neap Tide” are constantly in my playlist over the last month and it think that they deserve a place in yours too! It is so rare for an instrumental band to compose such wonderful pieces of music without a single dull moment and they made me also to anticipate for their full-length album! If Progressive Metal/Fusion/Improvising instrumental music meets your taste, then Fibonacci Sequence has it all. If you prefer music with vocals, give them a try and will catch yourself changing your beliefs quite soon! Check out their songs at http://www.myspace.com/fibonaccisequenceband and buy their EP through CDbaby.com or download the songs via iTunes.
Dimitris Starakis


 

 

In The Machine Interview and review of the song "Running"

In The Machine - Running (demo version)

How can someone be totally objective when he receives a new recording from one of his favorite singers? Corey Brown, known from his astonishing performances in bands like the unforgettable Psyco Drama and Magnitude 9, Section 16, Metro Society etc. is back again! In The Machine from Colorado is the latest hot name in the Power/Prog scene and they just released their very first song, titled “Running”, which is already on their mySpace profile. The demo version of the song took me by storm, since it’s solid, dark, crunchy and majestic at the same time! Corey is as grandiose as expected, giving a pompous tone to the wonderful song and really makes it a memorable composition. I really cannot wait for their songs to come and of course their debut album! Check their mySpace profile http://www.myspace.com/itmband and don’t forget to express your support to their talent. Maybe this is the most anticipated album of 2010!

Dimitris Starakis

I recently contacted the band in order to ask them for an interview and drummer Doug Brown was really kind to answer the questions and let us know more about In The Machine...

Tell me how you decided to form In The Machine?

In The Machine came together last fall. We'd all played together in different bands over the years and have been in the same scene for a long time. We've all been friends for awhile and it seems the planets were aligned for us to finally work together on something! Corey had expressed interest in wanting to do something a little different, and was no longer working with Section 16. The timing seemed right so I made a few calls. Within a few weeks the five of us were playing together and wrote a couple songs on the spot!

Why you chose that particular name?

We spent a good month or so pondering different names, and everyone came to the table with some pretty cool ideas. We really liked the idea of "Machine" because playing together felt like a well oiled machine. Things just seemed to click.

Describe to me your influences.

We have a variety of different influences in this group! Some we all share are Alice in Chains, Queensryche, Faith No More, Sevendust and Kings X.

Corey Brown happens to be one of my favorite singers! How lucky can a band feel to have such a gifted vocalist in its marks?

Corey has an amazing talent and I think we're all very psyched to be working with him! Of course he is an amazing vocalist, but he's also very involved in the songwriting process.

"Running” combines might with melody and it receives already positive feedback from Power/Prog enthusiasts. Have you recorded any other tracks as well?

We're actually in the process of recording the full length album! I believe the plan is to release a couple more tracks via the internet within the next couple months to give the fans some idea of what they can expect.

Are there any offers from record companies to release your songs? Do you also plan to give it a digital release?

Currently we're self producing the album. We're in a unique situation because one of our guitarists Eric Madrid owns and operates EHarmonic studios out here in Colorado. We're very fortunate because we're not under the usual stresses of a typical recording situation. We can focus on doing things the way we feel. We are shopping

the demos around and hope to secure a distribution deal once the full length album is done. We will also release it digitally!

You recently gave your first concert. Have you had any proposals to attend any big metal events?

The first show was amazing! We are in the process of booking some pretty big shows and would love to play some of the metal festivals like Prog Power.

When shall we expect your debut release?

The plan is to have the full length album done by the end of this summer/early fall (2010)

How difficult is it for a Power/Prog band to survive in the metal scene?

I think most Power/Prog fans are some of the most loyal and devoted people I've ever met. When they find something they like they support you and make the effort to come to the shows and buy the albums even if it is something hard to find. That's what keeps it alive. In terms of current trends it can be difficult at times to get the music out there, especially in America. But I think alot of people are starting to come around and some of the newer mainstream bands have progressive elements. Musicianship is starting to be appreciated again.

Which current releases do you listen to nowadays?

I know the band has been listening to the latest Alice In Chains record "Black Gives Way to Blue" quite a bit. I've also been listening to the latest Queensryche album "American Soldier". The latest Kings X album rocks, and I'm looking forward to new Sevendust.

Add anything you may want.

For the latest news on IN THE MACHINE visit

www.myspace.com/itmband

www.itmband.com

http://signmeto.roadrunnerrecords.com/inthemachine

IN THE MACHINE:

COREY BROWN: Vocals

JSIN ELLIOTT: Guitars

ERIC MADRID: Guitars

IAN RINGLER: 12 String Bass

DOUG BROWN: Drums, Vocals

Innerwish signs with Ulterium Records

Ulterium Records are very proud to announce the signing of the Greek melodic power metal band Innerwish to the label. The bands new album "No turning back" will be released May 28th in Europe and North America. The mixing of the album was done by Fredrik Nordstrφm [In Flames, Hammerfall, Dimmu Borgir] at Studio Fredman, and mastering was handled by Mika Jussila [Nightwish, Children of Bodom, Stratovarius] at Finnvox Studios.'

"No turning back" track listing:

01. The signs of our lives

02. Chosen one

03 Burning desires

04. No turning back

05. Sirens

06. Save us

07. Last breath

08. Lawmaker

09. Welcome to my world

10 Kingdom of the prime

11. Full of lust

12. Live for my own

Head over to the bands official myspace profile to check out the entire opening-track "The signs of our lives" as well as some more samples from the album: www.myspace.com/innerwish

Innerwish are confirmed to perform at this year's edition of Brainstorm Festival http://www.brainstormfestival.com/ in Apeldoorn, Netherlands, and a tour of Greece is planned for early June.

Schubert's "Ave Maria"by Steve Shannon

Gifted guitarist Steve Shannon just uploaded on youtube.com his rendition of Franz Shubert's "Ave Maria". Check it out and support his efforts: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7seCd_t2HAM
http://www.facebook.com/steveshannonnetwork
http://www.myspace.com/steveshannon

Dofka – Humanity Bleak CD review

Dofka – Humanity Bleak CD (World Nations Records)
Yes, it’s true. West Virginia-based metallers have been preparing the ground with some live shows in the area and their new album is finally out. It’s been 20 (!) years since “Toxic Wasteland” was out and in the meantime Jim offered us very few but marvellous pieces of Metal music such as the unrepeatable, extraordinary Psycho Scream project (with Tim Aymar) on vocals. Jim still is in my humble opinion one of the most innovative virtuosos of our beloved music since he always maintain his style but manages at the same time to create original music with fluent technique. I could write endless line’s on Jim’s guitar playing since he had a tremendous impact on me throughout the years. However, the new album, “Humanity Bleak” was not a pleasant surprise for me. I realised the new Dofka CD follows a current direction in their style that doesn’t appeal to me. I am reffering to the mixture of death growl vocals that are mixed in most of the songs with clean and melodic ones. Dofka’s new singer Andrew D'Cagna has a fine melodic voice, but when he starts his guttural vocals the whole image is destroyed. And it’s a pity since thankfully the CD contains some songs that doesn’t include this “mix-to-match” vocal situation like the wonderful “Tragedy Remains” a few growls doesn’t ruin this great song), the splendid "World On Fire”, "Blood Runs Black" (outstanding mid-tempo hymn!) and the self-titled song (just listen to what kind of brilliant riff Jim composed here!) . These above mentioned songs show to us that Andrew’s voice is fine and doesn’t need growl vocals to spoil the whole picture. On the other hand, a Power Metal hymn like the song “Second God” left me with mixed emotions since on the chorus, the death metal vocals didn’t really let me to enjoy to the max the outstanding guitar work that Jim did once again. Jim Dofka’s solos are truly out of this world since his musical intelligence is proved here once again! But in songs like “Immaculate Lie” the death metal vocals truly doesn’t bring out the grandiose music that Jim created. I am writing this review as a long time Dofka fan and not as a reviewer. I long for the day that Dofka follow a clean vocal direction, since that is the way that will unleash their enormous talent. Andrew has the ability to sing properly so this line up has the ability to grow the Dofka franchise. If only they put aside the death metal vocals direction…

Dimitris Starakis

Crystal Tears reveal release info concerning their new album, "Generation X"

EAN: 4260158170885

Cat. No.: 7H-033-2

Label: 7Hard

Title: Generation X

Artist: Crystal Tears

Produced by: R. D. Liapakis(MYSTIC PROPHECY, FIREWIND, ELDRITCH, CHASTAIN etc.)Recorded, mixed & mastered by: R. D. Liapakis and Christian Schmid(MYSTIC PROPHECY, FIREWIND, ELDRITCH, CHASTAIN etc.)

Genre: Melodic/Power Metal

Type: CD-Album

Release: 18th June 2010

Distribution: H'art-G.A.S./7Hard-world / Underclass-France / Soundforge-Greece / Andromeda-Italy / Cargo Records-UK & Europe

For promo requests and interviews, email: aw@7promo.de

TRACKLISTING
01. The X Generation (3:38)

02. Empty Paradise (4:25)

03. Heroes (3:37)

04. Inner Spirit (4:42)

05. Crystal Tears (4:03)

06. Nightmare Serenade (4:57)

07. Flesh ‘N’ Bone (4:48)

08. Predators (3:41)

09. Rock Until We Fall (4:29)

10. In The Beginning (4:05)

cd band Line-up/Credits

Ian Parry - vocals(HAMMERHEAD, VENGEANCE, ELEGY, ANDRE ANDERSEN, guest in AYREON)

Dimitris Goutziamanis - guitar

Stratos Dionisopoulos - bass

Chrisafis Tantanozis - drums

Produced by: R. D. Liapakis(MYSTIC PROPHECY, FIREWIND, ELDRITCH, CHASTAIN etc.)Recorded, mixed & mastered by: R. D. Liapakis and Christian Schmid(MYSTIC PROPHECY, FIREWIND, ELDRITCH, CHASTAIN etc.)Cover artwork & booklet design by: Meran "Darkmouth" Karanitant(SIX FEET UNDER, HATEBREED, LEAVE'S EYES, SODOM etc.)

Video directed & outdoor photography by: Dimitris Evgenidis.

All music by: Chrisafis Tantanozis

All lyrics by: Ian Parry apart from “Rock Until We Fall” by: Chrisafis Tantanozis

Facts:- Melodic metal of the highest class, with a monster line up- Feat. Ian Parry on vocals (HAMMERHEAD, VENGEANCE, ELEGY, ANDRE ANDERSEN, guest in AYREON)- Produced by: R. D. Liapakis (MYSTIC PROPHECY, FIREWIND, ELDRITCH, CHASTAIN etc.)- Recorded, mixed & mastered by: R. D. Liapakis and Christian Schmid (MYSTIC PROPHECY, FIREWIND, ELDRITCH, CHASTAIN etc.)- Cover artwork & booklet design by: Meran "Darkmouth" Karanitant (SIX FEET UNDER, HATEBREED, LEAVE'S EYES, SODOM)
Planning:- Heavy promotion campaign (radio, print media, online media, video and additional footage)- Rock It Magazine ¼ Anzeige + Soundcheck- Metal Hammer Heft CD + Soundcheck- Rock Hard Anzeige + Soundcheck- Interviews and features in print an online media- Club shows and festival gigs in 2010 all over Europe- Rock/metal print magazine, webzines, radios, TV worldwide- Videoclip is ready “Nightmare Serenade”- Video placing: inStore TV McDonalds, Burger King Kingchannel, Putpat TV- and much more, stay tuned!References:www.myspace.com/crystaltearsgr

http://www.7hard.com/

www.myspace.com/rdliapakis

http://www.ianparry.com/

www.myspace.com/ianparrytheartist

http://www.darkmouth.com/

www.myspace.com/karanitant

http://www.music-factory.eu/

www.myspace.com/musicfactory_studio

Highlights:
* Upcoming: Rock It Magazine ¼ Anzeige + Soundcheck * Upcoming: Metal Hammer Heft CD + Soundcheck * Upcoming: Rock Hard Anzeige + Soundcheck * Upcoming: Cover Page inHard Magazine, Interview, SC * Upcoming: Heavy Magazine Soundcheck * Ready: Full Video Clip “Nightmare Serenade” * Tour, CD release CD party / Greece / Location: t.b.a.

Promotion:Print & Online Promotion: Axel Wiesenauer, R. D. Liapakis, TSM, MelodicaRadio-Promotion: Axel Wiesenauer, R. D. Liapakis, TSM, MelodicaTV-Promotion: Axel Wiesenauer, R. D. Liapakis, TSM, Melodica

The new album:

The new CRYSTAL TEARS album is a cleverly written assortment of metal and rock classics revolving around various lyrical topics and themes, a boiling pot of ideas ranging from reality to fiction. The songs are structured around drummer and founding member Chrisafis Tantanozis; a hybrid of melodic metal music with heavy detuned guitars, speed double bass-drums and power hard rock anthems sealed together by an array of modernized melodic power vocals from a vocalist with a huge range and a strong personality differing from all power metal singers around, Ian Parry (ex-ELEGY, who also paid the guys a visit several times to shot their debut video clip, do a couple of photo sessions and other promotional activities). CRYSTAL TEARS have set their horizons towards the international stage working under the full guidance of metal producer/singer R. D. Liapakis (MYSTIC PROPHECY), who was the mastermind for delivering an album with a sound of their own.

The background: Established in late ‘90s, after three demo CDs, their first official release was unleashed through German Pure Steel records in 2006. Some of the band’s highlights are the appearances with JAG PANZER, RIOT and W.A.S.P. and their co-operations with illustrators Joe Petagno (MOTORHEAD, LED ZEPPELIN, ALICE COOPER, PINK FLOYD etc.) and Meran “Darkmouth” Karanitant (SIX FEET UNDER, HATEBREED, DIMMU BORGIR, IN FLAMES, SODOM etc.), producer R. D. Liapakis (MYSTIC PROPHECY, FIREWIND, CHASTAIN, ELDRITCH etc.) and Grammy nominated producer Chris Tsangarides (JUDAS PRIEST, THIN LIZZY, GARY MOORE, DEPECHE MODE, IAN GILLAN, OZZY OSBOURNE, BRUCE DICKINSON, HELLOWEEN, MALMSTEEN etc.). For work samplers, please, advise the links below.

The epilogue: CRYSTAL TEARS are famous for their live appearances and their dedication to music. Having being reviewed, interviewed and referred by the Greek official Press and globally quite often, the band tries hard to earn a place among the pantheon of rock world.

Contact:
Axel Wiesenauere Mail: aw@7promo.de
7Hardc/o 7us media group

GmbHMarkstr. 1271364 Winnenden

Germany
Fon: +49-7195-9078083Fax: +49-7195-9078079
Web: http://www.7hard.com/

John Lutzow from Leviathan reveals that Leviathan will stay alive afteir their brand new release!

13 years after their last studio effort, entitled “Scoring The Chapters”, one of the most charismatic US Power/Progressive Metal bands return with a live CD/DVD. Leviathan from Colorado, have just released their first live album, “Resurrected” and guitarist John Lutzow, reveals more details concerning the release but also the band’s future.

How did the Leviathan reunion come about?

The live shows were basically a natural progression for us to go back in time and attempt to begin again where we left off when we went our separate ways in 1998. The last "Braver Since Then" record we did brought Trevor Helfer back into the band with Derek Blake and I. Ron Skeen and I have remained in contact with each other after the Leviathan break up. I have asked him to come record with us or play out many times. He always turned us down until we found Jeff Ward. It was very difficult to track him down. He had moved back to Texas with his family. I found a phone number for his dad and was able to get a message to him. From that point on it wasn't about a live DVD or anything. It was mainly just to record together again for a new studio album. Live performances or rehearsals are obviously difficult when the band members live thousands of miles apart. So for a band like us just getting to play with great musicians again was the main motivation. I feel Leviathan finally had reached the pinnacle in our band chemistry and talent on our Scoring the Chapters album. I just wanted to experience what we could do now if given the chance. You don't find those connections very easily in life so it was worth twelve years of waiting to get to play as Leviathan again. So we are working on the new album and that will be a continuation of where we left off.

What does the new DVD/CD contain?

The DVD portion of the set contains the full live concert, bonus tracks and a photo collage of the history of leviathan. I wanted to add many more things to the disk but ran out of space on a single layer DVD. The budget did not allow me to do everything I wanted so I have many extras for a future release to friends that want to see more. The CD only contains the live songs. I only chose to put the CD in the package as a bonus. It is more a supplement to the DVD. Making the DVD was the most time consuming project I have ever worked on. It was a learning experience. I think once I got it done I finally was getting a grasp on how to work with editing and syncing everything together. Once again. I wish I could do it all over again. Next time, maybe?

Tell me your impressions from your live gigs? Did you have a chance to meet old friends and fans of the band?

The whole week we did the live shows seems like a blur and a dream. It all happened so fast. Jeff flew in from Texas on a Wednesday. We practiced that night with the band. That was our first full band practice since 1998. The next day we played a private show at Vikan auditorium and began recording. On Friday, we opened up the doors for a free all ages show. This was a big deal for us. I don't think Leviathan ever got to play more than a handful of All ages shows through out the years. Giving our families a chance to see us play was a major reason for doing all of this. We recorded most of the audio that went to the live set, that night. The next night was our show at the Buffalo Rose. The Saturday show is where we filmed most of the video that went into the set. Sunday morning Jeff flew back to Texas. It was a very busy week for sure.
It was great getting to see each others families. After we broke up, many of us quit playing music for a while so our families never got to see us play. All of our children got to finally see us play. They finally saw the reality of what their dads did with music. That part of it was worth the whole thing. People came out that I hadn't seen in ten to fifteen years. There was even a few people that drove in from other states to see us. It was like a family reunion or something.

Do you plan to give more concerts in the near future?

I would love to play more shows. We are playing a DVD release show locally here on April 10th. It will be a Leviathan/ Braver Since then show. Jeff can't make the show because of school so Derek and I will be singing lead on the Leviathan songs. Ron will be playing with us so that will be fun. The only problem to playing more shows as Leviathan is overcoming our geographic distance hurdle and scheduling. Jeff and I both are in school and work full time. Ron runs his anodizing shop and a motorcycle racing business. Derek and Trevor both work full time and have families. Derek and I have always talked about going to Europe and playing acoustic shows if it wasn't possible for the whole band to go. So no matter what, I will come to Europe next year after I graduate. Leviathan really wants to play some of the music festivals next summer, but the money isn't there for us to be able to pay for it. We are hoping to find a label that will believe in us enough to give us a chance to play where we sell most of our music. That is Germany, Greece and Japan.

Give us details on how can someone order your new release and also the names of some shops and distributors.

Anybody interested in purchasing the DVD set can buy it direct from the band. Contact us at inkpenexor@msn.com. The price is $15 US. Shipping is included. They can pay via PAYPAL. The distributors that have order product from me so far are Hellion Records, No Remorse, Pure Steel and Laser's Edge. The Set is also available at CDBABY.com and Digstation.com.

Many fans of yours want to know if you plan to work together for a studio album.

Yes, we are working on the new album right now. All the songs are already written. The whole Reunion thing has really been an inspiration for me. Once I had to start learning our old songs again it really put things into perspective for me as a song writer. The old songs took me back to where I was as a musician and song writer and woke me up to where I need to be. Within a few months of learning the old songs I had written three brand new songs. These songs are the heaviest and most technical songs I have ever played. So for the new album I am trying to do the recording process differently than I have in the past. All of the Braver Since Then albums I have recorded over the last decade have just been studio albums. We recorded them, then once the CD was finished we learned how to perform them for live shows. Now, we are trying to go back to the old days when we would be playing all of the songs as a band then recording them. I have done rough demos of my songs so that the rest of the band can learn what I am doing and establish their parts. Many of the songs will be sent to Jeff without the lyrics structured so that he can arrange the vocals the way he wants. This is a very big departure for me. In the past I used to do everything myself and hand everyone a finished song. A couple of Ron's songs for the new album were tunes we used to play as Leviathan in the beginning, back in the early nineties. These songs were never really recorded or released.
The new Leviathan CD will take over right where we left off after Scoring the Chapters. I promise fans it will be heavier, more technical than anything we have ever done. I will be posting updates for the new album as they happen on our web site. http://www.leviathanresurrected.com/

Dimitris, Thanks for helping us reach former Leviathan fans and hopefully some new ones.

Dimitris Starakis

The new Leviathan Live CD/DVD "Ressurected" is finally out!!!

Leviathan announce that the long-awaited live DVD and CD Ressurected" is ready!!! Price is 15$ including shipping worldwide and you can pay via paypal to: Inkpenexor@msn.com

GRAB YOUR COPY NOW!!!!!!

Leviathan reveal details for the forthcoming Live CD/DVD release

Leviathan announce that the long-awaited live DVD and CD is done and is currently reaching the hands of the manufacturer! The product is expected to be ready by the 15th of February 2010.The live CD includes 66 minutes of brilliant music, while the DVD features the latest 90-minute live performance from the band's reunion, ...plus previous Leviathan shows, 3 (!) unreleased songs, an audio pictorial and many more! The release will be a double disk Digi-pack and it will cost 15$, a real value for money! You can pre-order the new leviathan effort at jlutzow@adt.com (paypal accepted! Ask for exact shipping rates and the paypal id)

Black Fate – Deliverance Of Soul CD review

Black Fate – Deliverance Of Soul CD (Astral Records)

It’s been already 7 bloody years since I last held in my hands a brand new release from Black Fate. The band from Larisa have finally made it and released their new album, a work that again forced me to bow in front of their talent. I have already reviewed their songs in my blog (check it here) but I must add also that, after two years since the very first time I’ve listened to them, they still sound original and inspiring! Vasili’s voice is simply amazing and truly emotional and it is totally encouraging for all of us, the fans of the band, that they are active again! Black Fate have also released their first official video clip. while I strongly recommend you to obtain their album and enjoy soulful Power/Prog music with no clichés in it! I think the conditions are helping the band to make a brand new start and unleash its talent to the world. They have the quality to progress and reach wider and worldwide audiences. “Deliverance Of Soul” is faultless, without even an dull moment in it so please consider it as one of the highlight of the Greek scene! Good luck guys, you have all the needed talent and even more than that!
Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/blackfateband

Dimitris Starakis