Tag Archives: Julia Conopo

Eskimo Callboy – Crystals

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Germany is renowned for its unique music scene, with bands such as Rammstein, We Butter The Bread With Butter and Caliban causing a storm in both the UK and US. Eskimo Callboy are no exception, and since their formation in 2010 they have amassed a loyal fan base, which consists of over 148,000 Facebook fans. As a metal music fan it would be easy to instantly dismiss Eskimo Callboy as just another scene kid ‘electrocore’ band, but if their popularity is something to go by, they are definitely doing something right.

Opening track ‘Pitch Blease’ gives you an instant indication of their musical direction: their fusion of harsh vocals, singing and synths is easily reminiscent of the MySpace era. The lyrical content features themes such as getting drunk, partying and having sex, with the band themselves referring to their music as ‘porno metal’. If you are over the age of eighteen, listening to Eskimo Callboy will probably bring back cringe-inducing memories, such as having an emo fringe, wearing studded belts and plastic ‘shag band’ bracelets.

Musically, the screaming vocals are actually quite impressive. The fusion of screaming and clean vocals is nothing new, but Sushi and Kevin’s contrasting singing styles work well together. The main problem with Eskimo Callboy’s music is the disorientating and rushed synth-backing, which is especially apparent in ‘My Own Summer’. The repetitive “go, go, go” is easily reminiscent of tacky dance music remixes, and the constant synth beats are almost headache-inducing.

If you are looking for a new metal band to listen to, you should probably steer well clear of Eskimo Callboy – their music is definitely an acquired taste. However, if you are a fan of electronic/synth-based alternative music, then the German sextet will probably appeal to you.

Probably… Maybe?!

 

2.0/10

Eskimo Callboy on Facebook

JULIA CONOPO


Light The Fire – Lost At Sea

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It can be difficult to assign one specific genre to a band nowadays as there are so many subgenres, but Light The Fire have decided to make it easier for potential listeners, describing themselves as “Post-Hardcore Southern Techno Metalcore Djent”. Although this may sound overwhelming, the Dallas-based quintet are slowly but surely building up a steady fan base, mainly due to their busy touring schedule.

Opening track ‘#idoitfortheratchets’ should make the listener instantly intrigued; however, it does quite the opposite. The generic metalcore riffs drown out the screaming vocals, making it almost impossible to hear what vocalist Jeff Gunter is actually talking about. The electronic/synth addition makes the track sound almost disorganised, which would not appeal to most diehard metal music fans.

After such an underwhelming start, Lost At Sea (Standby) manages to pick up the pace around track number three, entitled ‘Frienemy’. The heavy riffs and harsh screaming vocals merge seamlessly, and it is difficult to understand why they did not choose to open the album with a stronger track, such as this one. The energetic music is almost contagious, and it would be interesting to see how Light The Fire would perform at a live show.

It is hard to describe this album as anything other than hit and miss. Some of the tracks are full of life and energy, making you want to hear more from Light The Fire, however, other sounds sound like a disorganised electronic mess. It is difficult to understand why ‘electronic metalcore’ seems to be so popular recently; however, if you are a fan of experimental music Light The Fire may be right up your street.

 

5.0/10

Light The Fire on Facebook

JULIA CONOPO


Wolfnote – Wolfnote EP

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When musicians form a new band alongside their current band, it is safe to say that they usually stick to a similar genre, or even the same genre. This cannot be said for Wolfnote, who are comprised of members from Harm’s Way. For those of you who are not familiar with them, Harm’s Way are a popular metallic hardcore band from Chicago, who usually create hardcore music. If you are looking for brutal riffs to headbang to then you have definitely been mistaken, as Wolfnote are an alternative rock group with infectiously catchy riffs.

Although the EP comprises of only three songs, it manages to give you a good indication of what Wolfnote are about: solid riffs, haunting vocals and well-written lyrics. Opening track ‘Luna’ is a passionate and hard-hitting rock anthem, and it is instantly apparent that they have strong influences from Alkaline Trio.

‘Sick’ begins with a more mellow and melancholy riff, not dissimilar from something that The Cure would use. The strong and passionate vocals are able to shine through perfectly, making a powerful impact on the listener.

Final song ‘Prowl’ is upbeat and fast-paced, returning to the style of the first track. The harmonies sound beautiful, and you can instantly tell that every member of Wolfnote is a talented musician. Sounding like a fusion of Alkaline Trio and Bayside, Wolfnote are able to introduce a new wave of music fans to the alternative rock and punk genres.

Although Wolfnote probably will not appeal to fans of Harm’s Way, it is easy to see exactly why so many people have been excited to hear this self-titled EP (Head2Wall). If you are a fan of alternative rock/punk then you should definitely keep an eye on Wolfnote: it won’t be long until the whole world knows about them.

 

8.0/10

Wolfnote on Twitter

 

JULIA CONOPO


The Early November – Imbue

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The alternative rock scene seems to be at a loss recently, with many bands releasing ‘new’ albums that sound exactly the same as everything that they have ever released. As the genre was originally meant to contrast against mainstream rock music, it is easy to see exactly why so many people are complaining about it at the moment. However, an exciting new alternative rock album has just been released in time for summer… Cue Imbue (Rise) by The Early November. The dictionary definition of imbue is ‘to inspire or permeate with a feeling or quality’, and that is exactly what the New Jersey quintet have managed to achieve with their fourth studio album.

Opening track ‘Narrow Mouth’ is a toe-tapping and spine-tingling rock anthem; the unique melody of the song makes it extremely catchy and impossible to get out of your head. Lead singer Ace Enders’ vocals sound strangely nostalgic yet beautiful, which enables the interesting lyrical content to shine through perfectly. To put it simply, ‘Narrow Mouth’ is a breath of fresh air in a so-called ‘dying’ genre.

‘Boxing Timelines’ is the first single that the band have released from Imbue and it is easy to see why. The romantic lyrics appeal to the masses and the guitar riff is simplistic yet effective. The chorus is infectiously catchy, which seems to be a reoccurring feature on the album. The happy-go-lucky anthem has the perfect summer vibe which provokes happy and nostalgic emotions from the listener.

It is easy to see exactly why The Early November have described Imbue as ‘the most natural and fitting album’ that they have ever created: every song flows perfectly into the next, despite each one sounding completely different. Don’t let the laid-back nature of the album fool you though, as it is easy to hear the passion oozing out of every track.

It definitely would not be an over exaggeration to call Imbue one of the best, if not the best album that The Early November have released. It is clear that their hiatus, along with their other ups and downs, have made them a much more dedicated and sophisticated band. Many bands would shy away from talking about their past, however, The Early November have learnt a lot from their experiences and they have become much stronger.

 

9.0/10

The Early November on Facebook

JULIA CONOPO


FESTIVAL PREVIEW: Temples Festival 2015

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Festival season is just around the corner, and what better way is there to start the summer than with Temples Festival? Launched in 2013, Temples is an independent music festival based in Bristol. The event will take place from 29th – 31st May at the historic venue Motion.Continue reading →


Puttin’ On The Foil – Fired Up, Ready To Roll

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New musical genres seem to be appearing on the internet daily, many without much use or purpose. However, once in a while a band describes themselves as a genre so unique that it makes you take notice, and this is exactly what Puttin’ On The Foil have achieved with Fired Up, Ready To Roll (Indie). Describing themselves as “hillbilly punk ‘n’ roll” with “tunes to save the world”, it is safe to say that the Okotoks-based three-piece do not take themselves too seriously.

Opening track ‘Shitshow’ begins with a toe-tapping riff, which leads into what can only be described as absolute chaos. The fast-paced and intense song instantly gives you an insight into what Puttin’ On The Foil are about; happy-go-lucky music with simplistic lyrics. Despite the somewhat immature lyrical content, there is something instantly likeable about the humorous band.

The acoustic riff on ‘Fishin’ Song’ lulls you into a fake sense of safety, before leading into a ferocious guitar solo. The general tune of the song sounds vaguely familiar and simplistic, making it stick in your head all day. The lyrics are rather comical; however, their upfront nature and plain to see values could easily appeal to the masses.

Final song ‘Ode To Drunk’ is a comical drinking anthem which could definitely draw in a crowd at a live show. The lyrical focus is obviously on drinking alcohol, making it a possible party anthem. Although Puttin’ On The Foil may not win any awards for creative lyrics, many rock music fans often get fed up of ‘serious’ music and this could easily appeal to them. Sometimes you just want a harmless song to listen to after a long day, and any song from ‘Fire Up, Ready To Roll’ could fit this category.

Despite being a comical band, Puttin’ On The Foil have been able to create an album which demonstrates their potential. All three members are actually rather talented musicians, like Steel Panther, who just enjoy creating hillbilly rock. If you do not take yourself too seriously then you could easily enjoy this harmless rock album.

 

7.0/10

Puttin’ On The Foil on Facebook

JULIA CONOPO


Darke Complex – Widow EP

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So-called ‘anonymous’ bands seem to be all of the rage nowadays, with bands such as King 810, The Hell and Ghost BC attempting, and often failing, to keep their identities secret. Although this is often used as a gimmick, Darke Complex have definitely managed to use this to their advantage, intriguing metalcore fans from across the world and managing to create a loyal fan base. The mysterious band refers to each member as a number from one to four, so excuse the rather ambiguous review!

Opening track ‘Crows’ is full of grindcore-like riffs and heavy breakdowns, instantly proving the musical direction of Darke Complex. The filthy bass-heavy music merges perfectly with the harsh vocals of the anonymous vocalist(s), creating something both unique and exciting. There are so many different elements to this song which may seem like it would be disorientated, however, they merge together extremely well. If you played ‘Crows’ to someone who had never heard of Darke Complex before it is safe to say that they would either absolutely love it or completely despite it.

‘Frigid’ includes rap-style vocals, which fuses perfectly with the ominous and almost grime-like music. This track does not sound like metalcore music at all, but more like horror-style rap music. With every track sounding completely different than the last, it is clear that the Darke Complex are using their anonymous identities to explore many different styles and genres of music without any pre-conceptions.

Final song ‘Intrusive Thoughts’ is hard-hitting and furiously fast, proving that the Darke Complex do not like to slow the pace down. With such energetic music it would definitely be interesting to see exactly what the Darke Complex are like live: if it is anything like their Widow EP (Spinefarm) you should expect carnage!

If you are an open-minded metal fan who enjoys listening to something which breaks stereotypical genre constraints then you should definitely give Darke Complex a listen: even if you do not like their music you will probably end up respecting them for their experimental nature.

 

9.0/10

Darke Complex on Facebook

JULIA CONOPO


Spitfire – Fuel To Burn

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Norwegian rockers Spitfire are back with their second full-length album, entitled Fuel to Burn (Indie Distro). Describing themselves as “high power and performance, just like the famous fighter”, this album definitely proves that statement wrong. If you were expecting fast-paced and furious riffs then you were definitely misinformed as Spitfire are another so-called ‘70s’ classic rock band, with more innuendos than you can… shake a stick at. Sigh.

Opening track ‘Fuel to Burn’ starts off with an impressive bassline which you think may lead into something exciting, however, once the lyrics kick in it is easy to see that it is not going to go anywhere. The repetition of ‘come on baby, light my fire’ is easily reminiscent of a Take That song, and it is safe to say that whoever writes the lyrics is definitely obsessed with cheesy sex references; ‘Friday night in my home town, looking for a girl. Got a rocket in my pocket, welcome to my world’ and ‘Let me see those long legs honey, wrapped around the stick’. It’s enough to make any girl, feminist or not, shudder, but if you are into Steel Panther style innuendos and cheesy rock music then you would definitely love this song.

‘Dogfight’ sounds almost like an early Bullet For My Valentine song, with added sexual innuendos. It’s hard to take a band serious when they talk about ‘jerking back’ their ‘stick’. Spitfire are an extremely confusing band to listen to, as you are unsure whether they are deliberately trying to be a comical band or if it is just coincidental.

Haunting riffs and lyrics greet you in ‘Far Away’, which is possibly one of the most interesting tracks on the album. Steering clear from the cheesiness, Spitfire prove that they can actually create a catchy and exciting song, rather than sticking to immature and silly innuendos. The vocals are impressive and the guitar solos are both technical and unique.

Final track ‘Down’ is hard-hitting and heavy, definitely making an instant impression on you.

It’s difficult to understand why they did not open the album with this track, as it is much more exciting and well-written than the sexually charged nonsense at the beginning. There are some definite hits merged in amongst the comedic songs, however, if you have never listened to Spitfire before then you will not know whether they are deliberately trying to be comical or not… Even after several listens I still have no idea.

 

3.0/10

Spitfire on Facebook

JULIA CONOPO


Beyond Dishonor – Generations EP

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Before you dismiss Beyond Dishonor as just another metalcore band, you need to look at exactly how far they have come without any record label or management help. Just a simple ‘google’ will show you that they played over 70 self-funded shows a year and that they have previously supported big names such as Whitechapel, Emmure and Chelsea Grin. Their hardworking attitude is something that many bands nowadays are lacking, and it is safe to say that their efforts have paid off in their latest release Generations (self-released).

Opening track ‘Heisenberg’ instantly proves that Beyond Dishonor have managed to nail all aspects of the metalcore genre; heavy music greats you from the first second of listening to it and the guitar riffs are very technical, which creates a unique pace for the song. Reese Dunlap’s vocals are extremely brutal and it would be interesting to hear how he manages to perform live.

‘What Clayton Bigsby Doesn’t Know’ is hard-hitting and furious, featuring angst-filled lyrics which merge perfectly with Reese’s vocals. The breakdown is anything but tame, appealing to head-bangers from all across the metal genre. Final track ‘God’s Greatest Gift’ is the perfect end to such a powerful EP but talent oozes out through every single song. The fast-paced and heavy riffs continue, making every song as impressive as the next. Despite only being six tracks long, this EP manages to showcase some of Beyond Dishonor’s greatest work and it proves exactly why you should give their music a try.

It really is hard to call Beyond Dishonor anything but talented, even if you are not a fan of metalcore music. Their hard work and effort shines through in Generations and it is easy to see exactly why they have previously supported or been on tour with so many popular bands.

 

8.5/10

Beyond Dishonor on Facebook

JULIA CONOPO


Secrets – Renditions EP

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Bands all across the metal and rock spectrum seem to be releasing a lot acoustic EPs recently, with bands such as Issues, Hands Like Houses and PVRIS trying to gain more fans by releasing stripped-back versions of their songs. California-based quartet Secrets are the latest post-hardcore band to try this tactic, but it is safe to say that they have made it work well. The acoustic and relaxed attitude of Renditions (Velocity/Rise) is the perfect summer playlist and works well for when you are not in the mood to hear screaming vocals, but still love alternative music.

Opening track ‘Forever and Never’ instantly sets the tone for the EP; slow-paced riffs and melodic vocals. Aaron Melzer and Richard Rogers are definitely using Renditions to their full advantage, demonstrating their unique vocal ranges and beautiful harmonies.

‘Dance of the Dead’ is full of well-written vocals and melodic harmonies. Although acoustic songs often sound simple, it is easy to hear exactly how much work has gone into this EP. The chorus is extremely catchy and it is definitely a stand-out song.

Third track ‘Fragile Figures’ proves that acoustic songs do not have to be boring; every song on this EP has its own unique style and sound completely different to the originals. It’s unusual to hear this song without its infamous harsh vocals and breakdowns; however, it proves that Secrets are multi-talented and able to appeal to a wide variety of music fans.

Final song ‘What’s Left of Us’ is one of the slowest songs on the EP, but it provides a fitting end to a beautiful record. The vocals are powerful and soulful, allowing you to completely absorb the lyrics and theme of the song. The almost orchestral sound is impressive and proves that Secrets are not just a one-trick pony; their music is universal and they are talented musicians.

9.0/10

Secrets on Facebook

JULIA CONOPO