New Reviews 8/30/2008 for Absolute Zero Media

Asva- What you don't know is frontier-CD (Southern Records)

What he have here is a Drone/Funeral Doom release with Members of Burning Witch, SunnO))), Earth and Mr Bungle mixing in several elements of Prog, Drift, Jazz and even avantgarde. There are several tracks that remind me on more Current Earth and there are times I swear they have a strong love of Dead can Dance esp in the Vocals and organ movements. The songs are all over 12 minutes in length but never become boring in any way. If your a fan of what a would call Funeral Drone with amazing drift ending then the fourth and final track the 23 minute A Trap for Judges will be perfection for you. Asva have made one release before this and with What you don't know is frontier in my CD player I want to revisit there 1st title and really am looking for there 3rd attempt at a style very hard craft properly. Stellar release here.

http://southern.net/



Blackwinds- Flesh inferno-CD (Regain Records)

Don't you dare call this a side project of Lord Mysteriis from Setherial and In Battle. What we have here is a band that has been around for 10 yrs and beside one Ep back then has released not one but two full length Cds of some very Epic yet Cold Black metal with a strong element of Death metal. The vocals are straight from the darkened torment of the Black metal realm. The music to this listener add more of a symphonic Black/Death style with strong bass, synths and more mid tempo drum lines. There is major injection of melodic sounds to this monster. If there was a choir or orchestra in hell I think those lost sounds would sound very much like what Blackwinds are creating here it seem this is just a duo as Lord Mysteriis is the musical mastermind behind this with vocalist Infaustus adding the worded daggers into ones soul. Flesh inferno is very impressive indeed.

http://regainrecords.com/



Lord Belial The Black Curse-CD (Regain Records)

Regain records over the years as seem to have been finding the best in Black and Death metal across Scandinavia and Europe or Simply taking them and helping them from other labels that just don't know how to support the band properly. Lord Belial is one of the latter. No Fashion seem to lose all support for this majestic and just jaw droping Melodic Black death band with throat ripping vocals full of spite. The guitar and bass swear cold sounds and melodies like few others. There songs are anthems in there own rights and with a solid and very talented drummer this all comes together . Lets not forget the synth lines while never in the forefront of the music. The add a crucial piece of the puzzle. Lord Belial proudly embrace the Swedish metal sound and I with this release they do not break as a larger band outside of europe I will be shocked as the talent level here is second to none. Manditory listening!!!

http://regainrecords.com




Sothis - De Oppresso Liber-CD (Candlelight USA)

So what we have here is a band band from Los Angeles California signed to Candlelight playing there updated vision on what Symphonic Black metal should be. They have a love for bands like Cradle of Filth, Dimmu Borgir and Emperor and this is very present in every track I listen too. The production is the noise way over producted epic Black metal sound that above mentioned bands perfected in the late 90's. The synth play a massive role in the sound of this band. They also hold image as a very high regard as high as the musicial output from what I can see in videos and the very over the top promotional photos. Lets be honest it's about the music and these fucker produce big time. Sothis are fantastic to say the least. Sweeping epic track of the highest of the Blackened Satanic order. I can see why Candlelight scooped this project up and they can be a huge force if there live shows are even half as amazing as this CD!!!

http://candlelightrecordsusa.com/



Khold Hundre år gammal-CD (Candlelight USA)

Khold to me over the last few years has moved form just raw primitive black metal with moments of the bizarre to Pure Post Black metal with very Avant and Punk Rock elements they have more in common with bands like Virus, VBE, DHG, Satyricon, Solefold now then every before. The very clean yet blackened and jazzy guitar tones, full warm bass lines and very complex yet never over worked drumming is the perfect backdrop to the grim and commanding blackened vocals of Khold. I really want to call them the Motorhead of Black metal as with Satyricon, Khold has defined a sound for them that is instantly noticeable and is all there own. Something that is not easy in this day and age and Khold are now masters of the own destiny. Just a great fucking record hands down. Buy it!

http://candlelightrecordsusa.com/



Destruction Devolution CD (Candlelight USA)

How the hell does a band after 25 year get better and better with each release. Well will have to ask Destruction as Devolution is the perfect yes I said PERFECT Thrash metal release. This German force with Sodom and Kreator have been making metal records for decades in Germany there must be something in the water over there to let these bands do what they do. I think it has a lot to do with Marcel "Schmier" Schirmer as his vocals and bass lines are just so amazing mixed with the textural guitar and spot on percussion they make me want to relive my teen yrs with my denim vest with metal patches all over them. It's a shame they were never getting the push in USA that they did receive in Europe as they would be a large a Megadeth, Testament or Anthrax here for sure. Devolution could be just rewards though as this is aggressive, melodic and just as powerful if not better as anything that the current thrash revival is giving us. With this and new Testament we are back to power and might in the Thrash scene mixed with great catchy melodies and for one I'm so happy for this. Long live Destruction lets just savior every moment we get from them as someday this will end and we will all be lesser people then.

http://candlelightrecordsusa.com/




Master Slaves to society-CD (Ibex Moon)

Paul Speckmann yet another in the line of great Thrash/Death metal guys that never got there proper respect in the scene as Master got to a level of success in Europe at a time when metal was a dirty word in America the 90's . With this in mind John of Ibex Moon also the main guy behind Incantation has a strong love for Mr Speckmann's work and with this European release only have now got this over to the North American shores for us to enjoy. Master has release records on Nuclear Blast, Displeased and Pavement over the yrs. If you like your Thrash old and dirty with a strong early Death metal vibe then this is a not to miss release. There are even some 1995 demo tracks as a added bonus to see there the band was and how they Mastered the Master sound as we know it today. Slaves to society is a kick ass ride in the darker more underground side of Thrash. Take a chance as you will be very pleased.

http://ibexmoonrecords.com/





Banished from Inferno- S/T-CD (Ibex Moon)

This Spanish Death Metal force is something to watch out for even those this is just a 5 song ep and under 24 minutes you can hear very clearly why Ibex moon picked them up. There is power and might in these songs. With Banished from Inferno there is something a bit more original going on as they like to add subharmonic tones and a strong harmony to all the guitar tones even though there are blasting moments they never over take the songs. The production is very clear and deep esp the guttural vocals which can be heard very well. I think that would be major thanks to Dan Swano mastering this release. Banished from Inferno as a band on the rise and if you a fan of the bass heavy death metal sound this is not a release to pass up.

http://ibexmoonrecords.com/

Dignity-Project Destiny-CD (Napalm Records)

When did Napalm records the home of Goth, Doom, Viking and Black metal start signing 80's hardrock/ AOR Melodic Rock bands. I'm not complaining at all as this band is simply amazing but Dignity is equal parts TNT, Europe and Rhaspody all in a perfect little bundle. The guitar and synths are so lush and epic with the warm and complex bass lines and a drummer that knows how to play hardrock with grace and talent to not over play it. Not to mention the amazing tasteful John Norm (Europe) styled solos through out the release. Vocally this gentlemen is straight out of Tell No Tales or Intuition albums by TNT . Tony Harnell would be so very proud. There is an Epic feel going on to all time with this release even in the most mellow of moments. Diginity is jaw droppingly talented in songs structures and arrangements. There are some dirty rock and metal moments too and they play off with the other parts of the release. If Napalm gets this to mainstream radio and some videos to outlets this band could be there 1st Huge selling release and I see nothing but a shining future for this band as every song is catchy and sing a lot in nature. Maybe Hardrock is coming back I for one welcome it with open arms.

http://napalmrecords.com/



Hollow Corp- Cloister of Radiance-CD (Prosthetic Records)

Here we have another band adding the elements of Post Hardcore, Doom metal and Industrial sounds to make one massive record. Hollow Corp has elements of bands like Neurosis, Godflesh, Swans and Napalm Death. Cloister of Radiance is one drag you through the mud kind of a release. Hollow Corp is not a happy group of fellows but thats what add to the magic of this release. It looks like the European label Dental records got the word out first as this this french band is now about to assault North American shores this the behemoth of a release. The guitars and bass tones are massive and the vocals are that of a war machine. I really like the very industrial metal sounds that come from this band at times they sound like old Pitch shifter or Fudge Tunnel in several tracks. The vocals to me is is a mix of Gira (0n Cop period Swans) or Steve von till (Neurosis). Then out of nowhere comes these odd avant even what a would call free jazz moments from Hollow Corp. Prosthetic has a jugganaunt in the making. You've been warn!!!!

http://www.prostheticrecords.com/

Bloodsoaked Interview 9/28/2008

1.tell us how bloodsoaked came to be.

Bloodsoaked started as I was looking for members to form a Death Metal band. I could not find members so I started in as a studio only project that has taken on a life of its own. I used to run The Intense Sounds of Death Metal web site, that turned in Bloodsoaked Promotions that turned into Bloodsoaked Records and now the band Bloodsoaked. So in one form or another Bloodsoaked has been around for well over 10 years, more like 15 years.

2. your working on your second full length how is that coming along.

Slow as fuck…LOL I have been wicked lazy about writing the new CD but for the last month or so I have been trying to get things moving. I have 4 songs at this point and home to have a few more soon for n early 2009 release.

3. you just play the death fest in providence how was that.

The New England Death Fest in Providence, RI might have been my best show to date. Killer bands, fest ran wicked smooth and it was a sick crowd, I am hoping to be back in 2009.

4. do you feel death metal is making a return in usa?

I really don’t think it has gone anywhere; Death Metal has always been underground and always will be. Some feel that after the late 80’s, early 90’s it kind of fell off the radar for a while but Death Metal will always be around.

5. what is you thoughs on the digital age of musical promotion.

I wish I was a kid again at this day and age with the way the internet has changed everything. If there was the internet and/or myspace back in the day when I played in a Thrash band (Deslok) back in Boston, MA it would have made promoting your band SO much easier. Back then had it’s cool things as well as tape trading, writing actual letters to and from bands and more interaction with-in the scene. Recording music is much easier now as well, you can record a CD/demo in your bed room and get it out to the world very easy, I love it.

6. do you find it hard to be a indie metal band in this day and age.

Not at all, I know what I want and what I am doing. I have a good day job that pays the bill so I can do Bloodsoaked. Comatose Music has been great to work with so far and I will continue to work with them for my new CD (Sadistic Deeds…Grotesque Memories) and see what happens after that. Booking shows, touring, and promotion is not really that hard, it just takes time and dedication weather you’re on a major label or no label at all.

7. if bloodsoaked could collab with any one who it be and why?

John Tardy (Obituary), Max Cavalier (Sepultura) and Martin van Drunen (Pestilence). Three of the best old-school Death Metal vocalist and three of the best old- school Death Metal bands from back in the day.

8. is the material a big change from the debut.

The material is pretty close to what people heard on Brutally Butchered but the production on the new CD will be 100 times better. A really pro sound is the first thing people will notice from the first CD till this one. Bloodsoaked will always be Death Metal in its purest form.

9. thank you for the time any closing words here.

Thanks for the interview and everyone get in touch!

Peter – Bloodsoaked

http://www.myspace.com/bloodsoakedband

Dead Bird Interview Aug 25th 2008

http://www.myspace.com/deadbird

1. Tell us how Deadbird came to be?
c: my brother(phillip-drums) and i have been playing music together since we were kids(well, teenagers at least), and we had a few other bands together before deadbird. we were playing in a band called ill conduit that we all really loved being a part of. our other guitar player at the time, terry, had some heavy personal shit go down and he needed to move back home to be closer to his family. at around the same time, our friends in rwake lost their guitarist and they asked me to play guitar for them. ill conduit, we decided, really would've been hard as fuck to keep going without terry in there. rwake has always been a band that we respect and admire in addition to being good friends, so i felt like there was no way to turn that opportunity down. anyway, i stayed with them for about a year and it was awesome, a true learning experience playing in one of the best bands ever, but my brother and i still had a strong need to jam with eachother. so, as much as i didn't want to leave rwake, the need to be in a band with my brother again was stronger so i moved back to fayetteville and we got to work on what became deadbird.

2. Deadbird is equal parts Eyehategod, His hero is gone, Neurosis and Crowbar. How did you come by this sound?
c:well, those are definitely some of our favorite bands and i think you can probably definitely hear some of that in our sound. but, we're really inspired by all sorts of shit. a lot of the older bands from zeppelin, skynyrd and floyd to metallica and motley crue. i grew up in the eighties so i was definitely down with a lot of the cock rock and shit like that. but i think our main influence is just each other and a bottle of whiskey in the jam room just jamming on the heaviest shit we can come up with. we have always placed the emphasis on whether or not what we're playing feels right in out hearts and our guts. that's always the main focus, rather than how technical or catchy we might could be.

3. You’re working with a very cool label At a Loss tell us how you signed with them.
c:hell yeah, joshua with at a loss has been real cool to us. we like and respect all the bands he's chosen to put out and he just has a real cool roster of bands. he put out rwake's second record 'if you walk before you crawl'. reid(our bass player, also plays bass in rwake) got ahold of joshua and asked if he was interested in putting out 'twilight ritual'. we sent him a copy and he was into the record so we just went from there.

4. Does Deadbird prefer to record or perform live?
c:i enjoy both equally. i have a studio in my house that we record all our shit in, so i'm probably a little biased. we all love to play live, but i'd say that me and reid are probably the ones that enjoy the studio side as well.

5. If there you were asked what Deadbird sounded like how would the band explain it?
c:slow, heavy southern rock doom

6. Where did the band Deadbird come from?
c:back when phillip and i were doing ill conduit, we came up with the idea to do like a real sparse kinda acoustic, piano thing that we were gonna call deadbird. we never got around to it(at least not yet), so when we got back together and got a new band going, the name was still floating around, so we went ahead and used it. i think maybe we might get around to doing something like that in the next year or two. we both like a lot of shit like the band low, godspeed! you black emperor, whiskeytown, etc., and we've always talked about doing something in that vein. i guess we'll have to call it something else now, though, since we stole the name from ourselves!

7. What are the bands thoughts on the digital age of Mp3’s, Webzines and Satelite Radio vs the old guard of CD’s Print media and analog radio?
c:it's a double edged sword in that it's made it a lot easier for underground bands who are in more remote areas or whatever to get the word out and get there music out there. we've set up whole tours just using the internet. but its definitely taken a lot of that magical 'discovery' element that we used to have. when you would search things out, traveling to the city to get to record stores that carried underground shit. everything was word of mouth and you had to know the right people to hear the cool new shit. we'd all trade information and cassette copies and shit like that. it just made it a lot more special when you found something that truly blew your mind.

8. You have a nice Myspace page do you feel there is no need for official made website for bands anymore with Myspace?
c:we used to have one, and i'd like to get another one going. it just takes money and myspace is free. i don't think it's neccesary anymore, but i think it's a nice way of putting some more information out there.

9. You worked with Billy Anderson on Twilight Ritual that must have been a blast he is the Jack Endino or Steve Albini on the Sludge/ Crust/Doom world. How did this come about?
c:we've all been huge fans of the work he's done for years now. neurosis' 'enemy of the sun' and sleep's 'jerusalem' are both milestones in the sonic realm(as well as musical realm). we tracked the record in our own studio and it took for fucking ever! we had a couple of lineup shifts and gear issues that added to the time we spent trying to get it done. as we got closer and closer and shit with the gear got sketchier(mainly our tape machine, which we've since fixed)i just kept thinking more and more that maybe it would be better if somebody outside of the band mixed the thing. i work at a bar and we tend to drink a little on the job. so, one night at work, i was on the computer and because i had a few drinks in me, i just said fuck it and emailed billy to ask if he would be into mixing out record. he got back to us the next day and it just went from there. we're real proud of the mix that he did for us.

10. You’re on the road how is that going are the crowds into what you do live?
c:we had the best reception that we've gotten so far on this last tour. we played a lot of great cities with a lot of great bands/friends that we know and people came out and supported. it was awesome and we can't wait to get out there again.

11. Are there any band out there that move Deadbird currently?
c:we're all big fans of music and always seeking out new shit to listen to. i've personally been listening to a lot of older shit lately. burzum, rush, black crowes, judas priest, and of course always jamming shit like tradgedy, wolfbrigade, neurosis, his hero is gone, trouble. that new record by ascend is really cool. and i can't wait to hear the new ac/dc.

12. What are your thoughts on the currently US extreme metal and hardcore scene is it growing or becoming very stagnant again
c.i guess it just depends on where you're looking. i think there's alot of shit that i refer to as 'mallcore' that is a very watered down, homogenized commercial version of extreme metal and hardcore and that kinda shit can be frustrasting in that it feels like kids are taking the things that we hold sacred to our heart and have lived by for years and kinda heartlessly twisting them into some sort of commercial package that gets pushed to kids at the mall. on the other end, though, it does seem that metal as a whole, not just the fake shit, is receiving a lot of attention again. it doesn't really matter as any of us who have been into metal for a long time knows, cause metal is always gonna be here whether it is commercially accepted or not. once this fad passes, the big media will say metal is dead again, and then we will all carry on as we did before ozzfest and they're will be a lot less 'hipsters' and 'trendjumpers' at the gigs.

13. The artwork on Twilight Ritual is amazing tell us about that. Who did it and how does it fit the theme of the release.
c:john baizley from baroness did an awesome job on the artwork and when we finally got the packaged cd in the mail, we were real excited about how the whole thing came together. we've played a few shows with baroness and those guys have always been real cool to us. we've had a lot of respect for them since they came out, and john is an awesome artist, so we were real happy to get to have him do the work. he's seen us play and he listened to the record and read the lyrics before he did the art and it makes all the difference when somebody searches it out like that. i think it captures the whole sonic and emotional vibe of the record well.

14. Thank you for your time any closing thought’s please place here
c:thanks for listening and being interested in out music. we'll be back on the road at the first of the year and we will be trying to go everywhere that we can, so hopefully we'll see you out there!

New Reviews 8/16/2008 @ Absolute Zero Media

Holy Moses-Agony of Death-CD (WackenRecords/ SPV)

Is there a such thing a Death thrash??? If so then enter Holy Moses. As this is as if Exodus and Testament got a female death metal vocalist and I'm the first one to tell ya folks its really Goddamn Catchy, Crushing and just plain good. The guitarist are amazing the melody with those thrashing riffs works so well with the synth interludes and the very bottom heavy rhythmn section that still has a great hook to them. I'm told this is Holy Moses 12th CD . I must be under a rock or there big only on the other side of the Atlantic because I've never even heard of them before. Sabina Classen has a hell of set of pipes as this is powerful as hell music that she needs to work with and without an issue she takes the chore on and kicks it in the ass !!! This band is were I wish Arch Enemy would have taken there sound as wow Agony of Death with a proper push I hope now with SPV behind there label will get the respect the really deserve. This is Metal folks should be in everyone's top 10 for 2008 hands down.

http://www.wackenrecords.com/



Reflection- When Shadows Fall-CD (Cruz Del Sur)

Over the years Cruz Del Sur has had a quest to bring traditional and power metal to the forefront of the mainstream music world with very mixed results. With Reflection they have again come on the postive side of this fence and truth to be told this is one hell of a power metal release at that. It reminds me very much of Angra, Blind Guardian and even a bit of Dream Theater at times. The choruses and guitar/ bass work are the real winners here. As when the tracks become epic and massive in structure that is the time " When Shadows Fall" is at its peak of musical majesty. Reflection does a great job in the clean sung vocal department as well most time they all try to sound like Iron maiden and with this project he really has more of that Euro metal sound. Which I prefer . There is a lot in common with Rhapsody in the vocal arrangments. The only way you can truly see is by listening check them out I don't think you'll be Dissapointed.

http://www.cruzdelsurmusic.com/

Ehnahre-THe Man Closing Up-CD (Sound Devastation)

This is one odd project with just hearing a few tracks so far from this Experimental Metal band from Boston . I would have to say the mix elements of Drone, Grind, Jazz and Death Metal all in one . This is one fucked up unit creating quiet an explosion in sound. They are sure on the proper titled label as this is Sound Devastation. The vocals are from Screams to Cries of Agony to low gutteral growls and grunts. Ehnahre are straight out Sludge doom at time too esp on the 3rd track of which all are untitled as well. Members have been in the mighty Kayo Dot I see as well and there is a strong influence of there earlier works esp there Debut on Tzadik. I can't tell if there are horns are just ultra twisted synths to give the affect of disjointed horns going on but it work is the sorrow and darkened sounds that Ehnahre create. If your an extreme music fan and love it on the slow and doomy side you will not want to miss this excellent release.

http://www.sounddevastation.co.uk/




Iced Earth- The Crucible of Man-CD (SPV Records)


Can we all say in unison HELL YA !!!!!!!! Matt Barlow is back where he belongs. I have nothing but respect for Tim Owens but the band had become a very different creation with him at the vocal ropes. He's a talent and was amazing in Judas Priest for me ears but after just one listen to this new Iced Earth platter. Mr Barlow has given me chills again It's like he never left. I have to be honest. The Dark Sage and Something Wicked this way comes are two of my all time favorite Cds in the Metal world ever. I saw Iced Earth in 1999 and they Blew me away live with there shear power and melody and its all back. Just listen to the guitar and vocal harmonies and you will be hooked. Jon Schaffer has written a Classic Iced Earth release once more. I really hope there going to do a tour in the US and I need to see and hear these tracks live and the power and might that they have on a big stage. It's just seem Matt Barlow knows how to make these style of guitars sound even bigger and more powerful with the way the vocals are presented. The even have a bone chilling power ballad called " A Gift ora curse" that must be heard... My fellow Iced Earth fans your wait is over the American Power Metal force is back and can wear the crown again unquestioned.

http://www.myspace.com/spvusa




Execration-Syndicate of lethargy-CD (Vendlus Records)

Brutallic Death metal on the Nth Scale. This is one deep guttural death metal force. That is also trying to blugeon you with some face smashing riffs being played at 200 mph. I've never heard of Execration before but they clearly love the 90's Tampa and NYC Death metal scen a whole lot by the sounds of this CD. If your liked bands like Human Remains, Incantation, Deicide and Middle Period Morbid Angel then this is going to be in your player for weeks if not months to come. The production on this slab of Metallic nastiness is second to none as well. You can hear every guitar , bass and drum line and the vocals are in the perfect place. There not buried but there not all up front of the music they use the voice as another layer of the complexity going on and that is so very important. Joesph and Vendlus has a Death metal power house in there roster now . Hats off to you for this. It's very hard to find good complex death metal today that doesnt want to taint it with Hardcore or Metalcore elements. Nice work....

http://vendlus.com/

Autumns Grey Solace Interview is up

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In this photo:

AUTUMN'S GREY SOLACE

http://www.myspace.com/autumnsgreysolace

1. For those of us new to the band tell us a bit about how the project came to
be?

(E.W.)The project came to be when I, Erin, stole one of Scott's tapes that he
recorded his lonely music on. I wrote lyrics and came up with a vocal melody, sang it for Scott in a very quiet and shy manner. He was stunned! He finally found a singer! I was rather stunned myself, but anyways that was the beginning of our musical journey. This was in the late
nineties, and we have never stopped creating and recording songs thus far...Our name, Autumn's Grey Solace came about upon our first release of "Within The Depths of a Darkened Forest" in 2002.


2. You've been with Projekt for 4 releases now . They must help you grow and

expand your audience and exposure. Tell us how you came Projekt and what the future holds with them.

(E.W.)Our very first "promotional tool" was the internet, where we came into
contact with Projekt. Scott was introduced to the record label by a friend, he truly liked the music he heard and wanted to be a part of it, so he persisted in getting accepted by Sam Rosenthal. We were elated when we officially became one of Projekt's artists! Our hopes of getting heard
were high, and over the years we received much positive feedback, but we never quite got as big as we would have liked. Yet we still create music and we always will, whether we make it "big" or not. That is how the future looks to me: record music and make albums for others to
hear, using the internet to make our music available to those who want to hear it.

(S.F.)The only thing I can promise about the future is that no matter what label
we are on, our music will continue to be true. I want to reach the people that would like our music, but the reason I am making music is not for monetary gain or chart placement. To me it is much deeper than that. I don't consider music to be a job OR a hobby, for me it is an identity.

3. Scott, the music and vocals are so delicate and lush what are some of the

projects that you think have help mold the sound of Autumn's Grey Solace?

(S.F.)It's no secret that I'm a fan of the Cocteau Twins. I like the way that
Robin Guthrie uses modulation effects and delays to get an ethereal guitar sound, instead of just turning up a reverb pedal. I'm also a very big fan of Johnny Marr of The Smiths, especially on the "Meat Is Murder" album. The first time I heard the opening track "Headmaster Ritual", it forever changed the way I looked at playing the guitar. I'm also influenced by a lot of music from the seventies and eighties. To me, the earliest origins of ethereal and dream pop music came from songs like "Sara" by Fleetwood Mac, "I'm Not In Love" by 10cc, and other songs of that era.

4. Being a duo is it difficult to tour at all. Or do you have a group of live
members work with you.

(S.F.)Our time has been very limited lately, so we are not pursuing touring at
this time.

5. Has Autumns Grey Solace ever had more members as I'm new to the band . Would you ever want to add more full time members?

(S.F.)So far, it has just been Erin and I. It is possible that we may add a
bassist and drummer in the future.

6. Erin's voice is heavenly and atmospheric to say the least. I was wondering if
she would give us some of her inspirations vocally ?

(E.W.) When I first voyaged into Scott's music, I was listening to Hooverphonic
and The Sundays and the soundtrack to the movie "The Crow". I also loved the Cure and now that I think about it, I liked A LOT of music. But the vocalists that I seemed to be compelled to sing along with were singers like Lisa Gerrard, Elizabeth Fraser and especially Geike Arnaert from Hooverphonic. I also liked Delores from the Cranberries' first album.


7. Erin if you could collaborate with any vocalist on lets say a duo who would
it be and why?

(E.W.) That's a tough question because how can you know if your singing can do
any justice for the other singer? I guess if the challenge was presented to me, I would hope it would be from a vocalist like Robert Smith! I think his low breathy tones and intuitive sense of feeling in music would sound so enchanting with my breathy high tones. Ahhh, dream on....


8. Autumn's Grey Solace sound to my ears mixes , Pop, Jazz, Ambient and Avant

music not the typical projekt sound. Do you feel your a fringe band on this label or is that what give the band the edge that is needed?

(E.W.) Our music is something that is spun out of a web of emotions, fantasies
and escapism. Our only intention is to create music that is soulfully satisfying and merely hope that our music is just as satisfying to others. We have a unique sound that is difficult to put into a specific genre, so maybe we do have an "edge"!? I appreciate Projekt as a step into the
music industry, and I hope that AGS can grow further on into a positive direction.

9. I like to asked more seasoned bands this what is your thought of the current
state of Indie music. Is this truly the start of a great age for the them or has it become impossible to have a career with underground music.

(E.W.) We have been with Projekt for about 4 years, and our success has been
very modest. I think the only way to even have a chance at being successful in the music business is to get signed by a major record label. They have the means to work hard at giving bands what they need to promote themselves with: money and people with a significant amount of clout in
the industry. But, sure, I think anything is possible, especially when what you have to work with is music of great quality and presence, and I think our music has grown in that direction. I'm not a cocky person, but I do feel you must have a certain amount of confidence in your own music.


10. Is there a running theme on Ablaze our just a collection of wonderfully
crafted songs?

(E.W.) There does seem to be a theme to Ablaze: Coming out of denial and
entering into who we are as musicians and human beings. A collection of songs that the BOTH of us are truly proud of.


11. What's you thoughts on the digital age of music , what are the pro and con's
you see?

(E.W.) The internet and its ability to give people easy access to music is a
double edge sword in the industry. Its a resourceful tool for, especially, the "underground" musicians in acquiring fans, but only a few lucky ones get noticed by those who can "make it happen" for them. As far as digital downloads go, I think they have robbed the sound quality of
music, along with much of the revenue from musicians and record labels. Doesn't anyone appreciate the excitement of a new CD and leafing through the sleeves of lyrics and neat artwork anymore?


12. Are there bands out there that really impress AGS being new or experienced. If so let us know what you think is great out there.

(S.F.)What impresses me is when a band or musician captures a sort of intangible
"magic" element, that moves me on an emotional level andmbeyond. I have heard very little of that element in the music that has been released within the last 10 years. The vast majority of music being released now is weak and superficial. I create the music I want to hear to
fulfill the need for new music in my life.


13. Do the members have other projects that work in or is AGS the sole focus for
the both of you.

(E.W.) I have done work for Nick Phoenix of Eastwest Sounds recording vocals
for the Voices Of Passion virtual instrument software. Other than that I am loyal to Autumn's Grey Solace.

(S.F.)I don't think I could ever find another musical situation that fulfills me
like Autumn's Grey Solace.


14. When the band closes it final chapter what is it that you hope your fans
take from the band?

(E.W.)Ha, a closing chapter? I can't fathom that. But if I ever do become
geriatric, I hope our fans are left with a sense of solace in there lives.

(S.F.)I want people to know that we were a band that created music for the sake
of artistry and expression and that we never compromised the integrity of our music for money, popularity, or the desires of any record
label.

New Reviews 8/9/2008 @ Absolute Zero Media

GENERIC - "TORTURE" CD (Fractured Spaces)

This seems to be a very cold dark ambient release by the founder of Iris Light Records. Generic comes through with deep drifting bass tones , rumbling ambient spacial movements and a heavy does of distant creepiness thrown in for good measure. Generic reminds me also of Sleep Research Facility mixed in with a good healthy does of In Slaughter Natives. Torture has a very occultish vibe to it as well. All the tracks seem to be called " Torture Garden" and there is a running theme of anger , desolation and power through out the release. The tracks are long but seem to build and grow nicely. I really like the deep tones that create an emotional reaction with every moment the tracks breathe and grow in to the void of sound and expression. Generic seems to have taken the time to feel out the tracks and maximize the sonic delivery of Torture as a whole. The packaging is a brilliant looking 4 panel matted Digipak as well and the Brown and Golden tones really add to the over all feel of the music on the release. Another shining moment for Fractured Spaces.

http://www.myspace.com/fracturedspacesrecords



OSMAN ARABI - "BURNING SIGILS" CD (Fractured Spaces)

Osman seems to be quite the prolific recording artist as well here as you will know him better under the names 20SV and Seeker with release on the Autumn Wind Production label. Though this seemed to be the 1st release that Mr Arabi seems to be going as a solo artist and not a project name. This differs very much from the other project were Osman seems to have a strong homage to the Ethno Experimental scene. I would say there is a strong brotherhood to Rapoon and the sadly gone Muslingauze. Being that Mr Arabi is from the heart of the middle eastern region this would make much sense. I myself have never been to Lebannon but I hear it is a beautiful and mystical place where the ancient and modern mix and with Burning Sigils you can get the full on with the minimalness of the tracks but vast Ideas and feeling the CD creates. I almost feel like I'm walking a marketplace in the old world were spice traders, criminals and holyman all work in the same streets. Osman seems to like to create music that is one long track as this is a single 38 minute journey. 20SV follows this theme often as well. There is no harsh or occultish feelings here like Seeking or the former mentioned project.
This is wonderful meditative style release. You can be very reflective and just let the world around to be forgotten. I really feel this is he best work over all.

http://www.myspace.com/fracturedspacesrecords





Jennie Tebler´s Out Of Oblivion- Till death tear us part-CD (Black Mark)

Well this is 180 degree turn from a very lackluster re-entry to the label world from Blackmark with Man from the moon. This is a very melodic dark rock/ metal record very much a mix of bands like Lacuna Coil, Kittie and even at moments Within Tempation. The music at time has a very gothic overtone but in those gothic doom bands style like Trail of Tears, Theatre of Tragedy etc. Jennie's vocals are not overly power but are very fitting for the style that is going on here. The delicate and melodic nature of the voice is what work well with the sometime very epic and larger then life guitar and bass tones. This may even be something fans of Evanessance fan would enjoy. The voice is very similar to Morgan of Kittie almost haunting like when clean sung in Kittie. The music really reminds me of a band called Godgory that I'm sure very few of you remember but were a brilliant project all there own. Black mark has struck back with a very nice and flowing release. Jennie with her band could really make a name for themselves with this release let hope the promotion get the name out there enough for them to get on Festivials and prove themselves to the world...

http://www.blackmark.net/

Metal Church-This present wasteland-CD (SPV USA)

I loved Metal Church at one point in time back in the late 80's/ early 90's when Mike Howe sung for them. This is not what I was hoping for . The vocal's are just awful. I hate to be like this but the music is very well done and reminds me of classic Metal Church but the vocals are so out of key and sour they hurt the ears. I really will not go any further with this. Metal Church seek out Mike Howe he is your key to a comeback...

http://www.myspace.com/spvusa




Chthonian Of Beatings And The Silence In Between-CD (Woodcut Records)

This is one pissed of Black/Death metal force. They are on a mission to destroy your ear's mind, body and soul and I feel that Chthonian are very well on there way. The power of the blast beat and sub harmonic guitar tone is were they come from. The vocals are a battle cry to all that will heed the call. This gentlemen ( I use the term for respect) can belt the hell out of the extreme metal genre. The samples of women screaming and odd spoken passage just add to the mystery of it all. Woodcut seem to be one of those labels that likes to give you the extreme is what ever manner of music they present you and my friends job well done here. The bass lines at time sound like there about to explode along with the 100mph drumming that is going on here. There are melodic moments that just make the blasts all the more impressives. This is a project to keep your eye on as they going to take the Extreme metal world by storm. Excellent work!!!

http://www.woodcutrecords.com/

Bahimiron Interview

http://www.myspace.com/bahimiron

1. Give those of us new to this band a history of the dark and
ritualistic history of Bahimiron

Grimlord: Well, after I left Imprecation in ’94 I started working on Bahimiron due
to my ever growing passion for unholy black metal. Imprecation was fulfilling in
the dark and evil sense of death metal, but with my appreciation for the early
BM such as “the Oath of the Goat” by Impaled Nazarene, Blasphemy’s “Fallen Angel
of Doom”, as well as the early Nordic black metal cult drew me into the spell.
I feel that it is fortunate that the musicians that I was working with at the
time were not serious about pursuing Bahimiron, because I found the correct
individuals to flesh it out into reality through Blaash (Wheresmyskin ‘zine) and
JenOside and later down the line Krag Daggon.

2. You just release an amazing black metal assault called " Southern
Nihilizm" on Moribund . How did you come to work with Odin and " The Cult"

Blaash – Odin contacted us first a couple years ago when we first sent our 02
demo to him, and he stated that perhaps in the future we could work together..
However, it was not until after we released our first LP that he contacted us
and we then decided it was time to join the cult….

3.How does this release differ from early works?

Grimlord: I feel that first of all it is our first real complete work as we
have had many splits, 7 inch releases, and comps. Also our first LP
“Pure Negativism: In Allegiance with Self Wreckage” was a mix of new and
old stuff, versus “Southern Nihilizm” being completely new material. I feet
that the overall vibe on “Southern..” is true to who we are as a band, and you
can hear it within every song that is on the album. No song contributed to
the assault was filler in any sense of the word.

4. I know that Absu is from Texas are there many Black metal bands in
the scene or are you one of the few to break out of the area.

Grimlord: There are some worthy cults reigning in the Lone Star state,
some alive and some dead (though their magick still reigns supreme in their
non-existence). Some of my faves include Averse Sefira, Obeisance, Necrovore,
Blaspherian, Divine Eve, Magus, Dark Reign, Black Reign, Thornspawn, Demonhammer, Brown Jenkins, Dagon, Pyre, Kathonik, Adumus, Rigor Mortis, Morbid Scream,Malignant Terror, Auschwitz, and of course early Imprecation. I would also like
to send heilz to Unchrist even though they are more of a merger between
Texas/Louisiana.

5. Will Bahimiron be touring off of " Southern Nihilizm"?

Grimlord: We are more partial to doing one-off shows vs. doing the road
thing though. We are going to strike Los Angeles in the summer in support of
Inquisition, and are playing two shows in Texas with Horna in the fall. If
anything else comes up and the compensation is right we would be up for it, I
would definitely like to do New York/New Jersey again, always good to be up there.

6. I'm sure you sick of this question but does anyone give you shit
for having female member in a very extreme Black metal band. I think she tears
it up and the bass line are sick as hell. Just wondering esp live.

Grimlord: No one has given me any shit personally, but I would laugh in their faggot faces if they did though!
Jen is, in my opinion, burning with the most hate within the band. Hell, she is always at war with someone,
and I will always have her back as she is like a sister to me. I agree that her mangled bass lines are indeed sick
as fuck, she is the pulse of our beast.

7. With the new release there are so many elements going on there is even a Neoclassical and Doom vibe going on in certain track. Do you feel experimenting is the only way Black metal will survive.

Grimlord: We just vomit out what channels the bloodshed within us. I could give a fuck if anyone thinks that
experimenting within black metal is weak or unworthy of the cult, my opinion on this is that if it channels
violent, angry, sick evil action and or thoughts then it has to be worthwhile. I cannot speak for the entire band,
but great doooom and evil ambience is a big part of my listening displeasure. Take for an example a band like
the Portal. They bring the nightmare imagery to both the audio and visual senses that make them completely
original but yet they still carry the vibe of what real black or extreme music is all about, and I embrace that to
the fullest.

8. Whats you thoughts as a band on the current state of USBM???

Grimlord: I fully support the genuine bands. I piss on the faggots that call themselves black metal and do
their share of “praizin’ the Devil” and dressing the part, but do not know what they are writing about lyrically
and musically and have merch stands that sell beach towels and/or balls, coffee mugs, and other crap with
their logo on it. They are why the rest of the globe sees USBM as crap. I think bands like Leviathan, Inquisition
, Black Witchery, Demoncy, Averse Sefira, Ashdautus, Ibex Throne (RIP), Grand Belial’s Key, Abazagorath, Kult
of Azazel, Amputator, Thornspawn, Profanatica, and others speak for themselves as serious and evil craft.
It is in the strength of these bands and some others that make the USBM scene worthy to stand in the trenches
with the rest of the globe.

9. Whats Bahimiron feelings on the new digital age with Myspace and Mp3 downloads and they way of the CD and Vinyl slowing down. Is is a curse or just a new way of thinking for the underground scene.

Grimlord: eh, I am mixed about it. The main thing I hate about the new underground is that it enables a
bunch of crappy faggot bands to flood the scene with their passing fads. I do miss the discovery of new
music through the postal system, it made it seem like more of a find of some evil treasure, when it was good,
versus a simple click of a mouse to determine whether or not you want to bother with the music.

10. Is Corpse Paint a right of passage for extreme Black metal or is
it more personal for a band like yourselves?

Grimlord: I feel that it keeps the essence of this music the way it should be, shadowed and mysterious.
It can, in the wrong hands, come across as campy and laughable. But if the music involved truly channels
the poison of black metal it can be very effective.

11. Does Bahimiron prefer to record or perform live?

Grimlord: Recording sucks but the end result is definitely worthwhile (usually). I actually prefer playing live
in a rehearsal space versus on a stage as the rehearsal space usually conjures up a more violent conviction, as
you are able to eliminate problems that come with playing live such as bad sound men, uninspired lighting,
crappy PA systems, and expensive alcohol!

12. What is the ultimate goal for a band like Bahimiron to present to
the world at large.

Grimlord: Nothing. We have no goals for this band, just to keep spilling the hatred here in the trenches of shit.

13. Any closing thoughts or ideas please place here

Grimlord: Whiskey shots for the intie!