1. For those new to Made out of babies tell us a bit of how you came to be.
B- We formed to play Julie's sisters birthday as a joke. We got together practiced for a week and wrote a few songs and then played the party. We were horrible. But it was fun so we just kept going.
2. You just released a new CD on The End after having a few releases on Neurot. Why the change of labels??
B- Just time for a change. We did 2 records with them and we just felt like trying something different. Nothing bad happened, no juicy gossip. Everything about this record for us was about trying new things and the change of label was just one of many.
3. The Ruiner seems to be a bit more epic and melodic then Coward CD. Do you feel that youve added a more melodic element here.
B- Like I said, everything about this record was about trying new and different things. We were very conscious about not limiting ourselves in any way. We didn't want to NOT do anything, if that makes sense. If something cameup and it sounded too pretty or too corny or whatever we just went with it to see what would happen and 9 times out of 10 we really liked where it went. And it would just give us something we never even knew we could do.
4. Being from NYC , Brooklyn actually how do you feel the club and venues in NYC are supporting indie music these days do you miss places like CBGB's Continential, Coney Island High and Lamours.. Is it hard for a Noisey rock band to find venues to play these day???
B- Yes and Yes. Certain places I do miss, certain ones were dumps and I don't give a shit that they're gone. But one thing for certain is that there are less and less venues that are independently owned and operated and that often makes it difficult for bands that want exposure in this city. We are lucky enough now to be able to play the places we want when we want in NY now a days but that is only a recent thing. ut actually now there are a few more here and there that are opening and others that have had the capabilities for a while but are just now getting it together and putting on more and more good shows.
5. Is there a Theme running through The Ruiner.
B- We prefer to leave that up to the listener. The lyrics on this record were decidedly less obscure than the previous ones, but still we prefer not to tell people what meaning they are "supposed" to get from the songs.
6. Julie's voice is so expressive it works so well with the drive bass and dissident guitar tones. How did this sound come to be.
B- We all do what we do and I think it has now just been so long that we have been playing together that we know what works with each others playing and singing and we have just now begun to realize what our potential has been all along. If you are asking about specific technique or things like that I have no idea. I just know for me personally that playing with these three other individuals is now just the most natural feeling thing as far as music goes I have experienced.
7. Made of out babies is an interesting name were did you come up with this ??
B- It was a joke that stuck. Let that be a lesson to us.
8. If there were any artist or group Made out of babies could collab with who would it be and why?
B- We all have very different tastes in music, which is what makes the music we make sound the way it does. If I could pick anyone I would say Johnny Greenwood or Warren Ellis. I also like those Beirut people a lot too. Ooo and I would write a song for Scout Niblett anyday.
9. What your thoughts on the Digital music age as a band are you for or against it. Does it help or hurt the artist in the end.
B- Good and bad of course. You get a lot more access but it is also impossible to be paid for music that you make, so in turn you get way more of the crap that big labels that have a marketing and more secure plan of getting their money and the smaller people have no hope of ever seeing a dime for what they put so much work into. As far as recording though I have to say that I am not with the recording purists that are completely against it. It is just another tool to expand the palette of recorded music.
10. There is such a feeling of dispair and hope all at the same time with Made out of babies. Are the dueling thoughts there on purpose
B- Isn't that how most people feel all the time? You swing back and forth between the 2. I do anyway.
11. If your were asked by someone that has never heard Made of out babies . How would you describe the band to them.
B- Loud, creepy and cute.
12. DO you prefer to Perform live or is the studio the place the band would rather be?
B- That is really hard to say. I used to love playing live above all else. But now I love the studio so much. Ever since I built the studio in my house here in Brooklyn (where we did a lot of the preliminary work for the new record as well as much of the overdubbing) it has been an incredible experience learning how to write and record music in a wholenew way. Plus touring is hard, it is a lot of work and sometimes you get very little back in return. But there are those rare occassions that the crowd is good and into it, we are all in the right mood and we are playing really good. It is those times that make playing live the best thing ever.
13. Did you ever think the band would reach the levels it has touring worldwide. releasing albums on larger indie labels and getting worldwide press?
B- No, never.
14. At the end of the day and when the Band runs its course what does Made out of babies how to leave as there mark on the world
B- The same as any band. A few good songs and many memories.
15. Your website madeoutofbabies.com while simple is really beautiful is it more about function then form???
B- Simple is best.
16. Do you feel Myspace is a manditory evil in 2008?
This is a solo project of Electro Goth with heavy elements taken from electro industrial scene. Very Bauhaus meets Sisters of Mercy's in the vocal style. There is a dance element to music but I would never call it 100% Goth rock as it has to many other elements going on . I hate to use the term synth pop too as there are flavors of Depeche Mode , Massive Attack going on here. I like Orpheos much more when the darker trip hop elements come out esp on track 3 "On the run" . The gentlemen has a very good voice for this style and works very well with the beats and driving rhythms here. If you like the mellow moments of Ulver as well this will be your cup of tea. I was expecting nothing and came away with several track I really enjoyed. Check Orpheos out at his myspace site below.
Goly Grim- Nothing Natural This way Comes-CD (Grim Records)
Some on has a strong love of projects like Godflesh, Swans and Man is the bastard. This is Industrial Doom no other way to say it. There is a darkness, a sickness to the guitar and bass sounds that come through in such a tortured manner mixed with the haunting synths and robotic death drums and vocals just commanding out the orders that this projects demands that you hear. I would say there Black industrial part of Goly Grim as well that would go well with bands like MZ412, In Slaughtered natives. "Nothing Natural This way comes" has a lot to with Halo and Treponem Pal in sound and presence too. I would not call metal in anyway as Goly grim are more akin to the Brutal Punk/ Industrial Doom side of the spectrum but there are metal elements esp in the guitar sound. If you like the bands I've mentions these guys are a mandatory listen. http://www.myspace.com/golygrim
MICROSCOPIC SUFFERING- We're the pigs in america-CD (Grim Records)
This is one very unsettling Percussive Noise terror unit. Rumbling bass tones, heavy effect vocals that are yelled or grunts in the same way projects like Survival Unit, Slogun or NTT would unlease to the world. MICROSCOPIC SUFFERING have a lot in common with power electronics those they like to mix the tempos and synthetic elements up with an almost dark hypnotic feeling. This is one long 24 minute live track and if MICROSCOPIC SUFFERING sounds this amazing live. There pro done recording will take the the world by storm. Dom if your reading this I think we've found your next project for Hospital Records as they would make an fantastic addition you your roster. There is again a swans and halo worship going on here but is a much more pissed off manner. Check this nightmare squad out asap.
Do you remember the late 80's/ early 90's when the there was the electro industrial/ Metallic industrial crazy going on with labels like Wax trax. TVT, Mute , Cop Intl etc well this the world that Die Warzau comes from. I'm sure you remember Die Warzau as they were taken the industrial world by storm with bands likeNIN, Nitzer ebb, Front line assembly, Front 242, KDMFM. Well there back with a remix record of some of there more aggro moments with some really ass kicking rhythmic back drops and six unreleased tracks. This really makes me remember the early days of 120 minutes on MTV (then they cared about new artists and exposing new sounds to the world). Vinyl 88 just simply is fantastic and good to see bands like this telling the world look were back and going to smack you in the face once more. The production is 2nd to none here and i love the ethno elements, jazz movements and the subtle neo classic moments all with what I like to call the Pretty hate machine loops as all the bands love those drum sounds from acid or fruity loop. Come back and embrace Die Warzau one of the better unit that create these sounds. http://rosehiprecords.com
BLÆRG, “Auspices and Vagaries”- MiniCD (Bottle Imp Productions)
Blaerg is something again I should by all manner hate but since my love of trip hop and glitch music has been growing by leaps and bounds thanks to projects like Ulver, Xploding Plastix and When. Blaerg has that jazzy broke beat sound that I can really sink my teeth into and Daniel at Bottle-imp seems to know that and keeps me in my regular fix of the damn stuff. Blaerg is a soundtrack to the thinking mans electronic scene part dj, part movie and video game soundtrack and 100% awe inspiring. What else his there to say other than 4 tracks in just too short and if Blaerg isnt careful they may become my fave beat driving electro project. The packaging for this 3" CD is amazing to multi color full jewelcase and full color artwork in white, red and black. Works very well with the sounds that are created. Nice touch.
Metria, “Leaving The Burning Building”-CD (Bottle-Imp Productions)
Metria is a traveling soundscape of drifting tones and field records with odd samples of spoke words, cheering and demonic voices. Those is seems to be oppressive and dark there is never really a noise or harshness to this release. Metria like to left the feels of fear, confusion and loss and the tools to give you the final vision of a world on the brink of total destruction. If i was to compare the project to other things that have been created that would be very hard as it incorp's elements of the dark or minimal sounds of artist like Sleep Research, Lustmore, Non, EN and Nordvargr. This is a very oppressive sounding release as when it becomes dense you can feel the pure dispair and saddness of the end of days. Metria is a very good voice of the martial electronic scene...
I knew that someday someone would expand on the sounds that Arecibo ( a Lustmord side project). Amnion sounds like distance signals from space or sonar deep with in the oceans of the world. I really dig the spacial and very isolationist sounds that come in the backdrops of this project. Bottle-Imp productions is releasing some very amazing titles too bad on the CDR format only . I really think the world would be interested the titles be less limited. I like how Amnion goes form mellow to building up in tone and texture to a full on blitz of audio frenzy. There is a bunch of melody in the distance as well from time to time. A lot of the more experimental ambient project have left this sound for a more minimal sound. I like the organic movements of it all. Amnion needs a full length release and I hope Bottle-Imp gives it to Amion.
1. As I know nothing of this project please tell us about Azaghal in the band's own thoughts.
- Azaghal is a finnish black metal band started in 1995 to satisfy our inner demons. Our sound has since the beginning been highly influenced by the early 90s norweigian scene, and to this date we aim to create quality black metal that pleases ourselves instead of trying to be something hugely unique or different. For more detailed info, our biography is available at http://blackterrormetal.cjb.net or http://www.myspace.com/azaghalterrorcult
2. To my ears "Omega" is a very blistering raw feeling Black metal assault but with one hell of a great production. Is this important to the band to make sure the band sound strong and full on CD to get the message across.
- I think a great production is the one that's most fitting to the music at hand, we've had more professional productions than on the latest album and more primitive. I think the brutal and compressed sound fits "Omega" very well and takes the aggression and violence in the songs to a new level. So I think it's important to have a suitable sound and production, but it doesn't have to be hifi stuff.
3. Your working with the Mighty Moribund Cult how is that coming along the are the hands down best Black metal supporting label in North America for my worth.
- So far things have been great and the album is doing pretty well. The amount of promotion and time they invest in their bands is on a totally different level than with some of the labels we've been associated with before. So, so far so good.
4. I can see Azaghal has been together over 10 yrs and worked with many smaller but strong labels. Whats your thoughts on how " Omega" sounds vs the 5 full lengths before it.
- All our albums are slightly different, yet they all have the recognizable Azaghal sound I think. "Omega" is musically perhaps a step back towards our second and third albums, "Nine Circles of Hell" and "Of Beasts and Vultures", but taking all the elements of those albums to new extremes. "Omega" is in my opinion more focused than some of our past work, and I am still 100% satisfied with it.
5. Being from Finland a more isolated nation is it more difficult to get a black metal band especially a extreme and brutal one to be hard outside your nation that is much more well known for Doom and Brutal Death metal creations.
- No, I don't really think so, I think the finnish black metal scene, the little that I've followed of it in the past years, is very strong and finnish black metal bands seem to do very well abroad.
6. The Artwork for "Omega" is very unsettling can you tell us a bit about it and does it hold a part of the story for the release or just the mood of the music.
- The cover artwork is done by Naas Art. We had a song for the new album called "Tämän Maailman Prinssi" ("The Prince of This Earth"), and while I was looking for artwork for the new album I came accross the cover painting, and it had the exact same name, so needless to say we knew that it would be the perfect cover. The cover pictures the prince of this earth, the antichrist, the omega.
7. Azaghal seems to like to use synth work in te background as layering and texture do you feel if the electronic or synth element is in the front more it takes away from the aggression and darkness of the music.
- We haven't really used that much synths in the past, not since the 90s anyway. The synths might take some of the aggression away from the music, but I disagree with the darkness part, a lot of the old hellenic cults used extensive synths and managed to create some of the darkest and most occultic black metal ever. In the future we will most likely experiment with the synths a bit more, but they will never be in a dominant role.
8. The vocals in Azaghal are very gruff and gravel in sound and add such a great touch to what I would call a more complex guitar and synth arrangement. Do you feel the layering of sounds is what makes Azaghal so interesting to the listener.
- That's hard for me to say, it's up to the reviewers and listeners to decide what makes or doesn't make Azaghal interesting. I create this music mostly for myself, and as long as it stays interesting for me that's enough, I don't spend my nights analyzing different layers of it.
9. You hate the term Post Black metal because at time you remind me of bands like Krohm, Satyricon, Mayhem, Tulus bands I would say have that similar sounds.
- I don't care that much about terms, and I personally wouldn't call any of those bands you listed as post black metal. To me Post black metal is stuff like Amoseuors, Virus, Lurker of Chalice and Circle of Ouroborous.
10. To a band like Azaghal is myspace (as this seems to be your main site now) and digital promotion important or do you feel is about just the live show and making music for the cult audience.
- We use myspace mostly because it's very easy and convenient. I have no knowledge of websites or http or anything like that, so myspace is a very easy and fast way to post news to the internet. I can understand why many people hate it, but times change, there is no returning to the old letter writing and tape trading days no matter how much you try to fight new techonology, so you might just as well embrace it and use it to further your cause.
11. How does Azaghal feel black metal music and ideal has changed over the last 10 yrs.
- Well, yes and no. The mediums have changed, and black metal has lost its obscurity and most of its mystery during the years, but as long as the black flame and devotion still burn inside those creating it, it doesn't matter.
12. Thank for your time any closing thoughts place here
This is a project formed by a former member of Old Dead Tree and Dawn of Decline. In which they have a strong love for Metal Eastern Oriental sounds. There is a lot in common with Arkan and bands like Orphaned Land, Septic Flesh, Orphanage and Nile. There are some very North Africian elements in there music esp Moroccan and Egyptian sounds. The haunting female and clean sung vocal mix very well with very brutal death metal vocals. There is an amazing mid tempo melodic death metal sound in the guitar and bass there massive in sound and textures and the eastern sounds with bombastic drumming is just what takes it all over the time. Arkan is fabulous in sound and ideal. We need more bands like this as Death metal will never become stagnant with creativity in this order.
http://season-of-mist.com/
PSYKUP- We love you all-CD (Season of Mist)
Avant Jazz Metal sometime is just chaos infinite but not with Psykup. If you can imagine a more focused and damn right talented force focusing on elements that lead you into sounds of Devin Townsend, Kayo Dot, Mike Patton and Primus is a wild wild right. There are moments I think the whole thing maybe a huge joke as there are time that there either worshiping or mocking bands like 311 , alice in chains and korn. Psykup has so much going on that its hard to focus on just one element and that is one of the best things about this release. Sometime I think they really just want to be a fucked grindcore band but then out of nowhere an almost groove and backbeat comes out with very sung clean vocals. The Drumming is so manic is beautiful and the guitars and bass while very complex and prog at time is brutal as the vocals at times. I would say this is another band in the Carnival of Coals vibe for Season of Mist. Not for everyone but the ones that are into it will love this. Nods to the samples of Dogma in the 3rd track too. Pskkup is well worth checking out.
http://season-of-mist.com/
Dead Shape Figure - The Grand Karoshi -CD (Season of Mist)
Thrash is alive and well again and extremely pissed off in the form of Dead Shape Figure. The big differance from the classic thrash sound and Dead Shape Figure is they like to mix in elements of At the Gates , Machine Head and Hypocrisy into the classic sounds of Kreator, Exodus, Forbidden and Testament monsterous sounds of thrash!!! If your a extreme metal fan you can't hate this period... There are some total melodic crushing guitar , bass work and the drums are full on and know when to turn down when needed. The vocals are a very a cross between Testament and Machine Head to my ears. Dead Shape Figure are doing what Arkan are doing putting fresh ideas in to a well loved style that a lot of faves have been missing in the age of Slipknot, Shadows Fall and Victory records adding way to many nu metal and hardcore elements into a sound that was thought outdated. Mandatory listening for Thrash fans!!!!
http://season-of-mist.com/
Naer Mataron - Praetorians-CD (Season of Mist)
This is the supergroup of all things Blackened and Grim with Nordvargr- Keyboards (MZ. 412, Pouppée Fabrikk, Folkstorm, Toroidh, Nordvargr, Goatvargr, Marvargr, Muskel, HH9, Vargr, Forgotten Tomb) and Vicotnik - Vocals (Dødheimsgard, Ved Buens Ende, Code, Manes) as members of this band. They are more a traditional Black metal force with some avant elements but more like to stay in the Marduk, Darkthrone, Mayhem side of the anti christian assault of sounds and opinions. There is a very bizarre and down right disurbing video for the track Incarcerating Gallantry that must be seen as they like to shock and amaze in that track. You can feel the hate and dispair on each and every track and in the end thats all you want in your Black metal. Fast, Pissed off and anti christian...
http://season-of-mist.com/
Esoteric - The Maniacal Vale-CD (Season of Mist)
This is the only Esoteric one should be talking about the other has not been around since 1992. Esoteric were a ultra slow funeral doom band but on this release a bit more melodic and harmonics have been let to flow and by no means this this a slag on the project. They still have the sloth like riffs and psychedelic elements that you remember from there Aesthetic Death days. I think this release is again with a stronger production then the older days allows the other elements of the band shine as well. The very textural guitars and elements between the songs make a lasting impression. I will say there is an element missing without Chris Peters on guitar. He always added a another layer of sadness and torment in the tones he used. For this reviewer The Pernicious Enigma is where the moment Esoteric came to there own and while this isnt as instant classic as that. The Maniacal Vale are back with a 2 CD release . The only way Esoteric should ever release material and is clearly there 2nd best release in there career. Esoteric you my brothers are DOOM!!!!.
http://season-of-mist.com/
Spylacopa-DebutEP-CDEP (Rising Pulse Records)
With members of Dillinger Escape Plan, Isis, Made out of babies and Candiria in this project who the hell knew what this would sound like but to be honest I'm totally shocked and in awe and the 1st 2 track are a mix of all those bands in a very avant Post Hardcore/Rock manner and amazing in there own right . The 3rd track is a Soundscape, Ambient, Spacial Soundtrack piece with Piano's and synth elements. Having Greg Puciato, Julie Christmas both on vocals makes is all the more special as they are two of the best vocalist out there in the musical landscape today. There is a more melody driving sound here then most of there other projects. The aggression this there but there a more user friendly side to Spylacopa. I still would never call this pop music but I can see this project getting radio airplay and video support by the mainstream as you can get those hot topic kids to listen to this and make them think there still cool lol.. There is a later period Faith No More vibe to this as while and it works very well. Spylacopa need to make a full length asap. This is brilliance in the making do not miss out on this.
I normally don't post news from other labels, or non AZM info. But this is important to me. With Thergothon and Ras Algethi. This is one of the most important bands to ever create music for me. Skepticism is back and may there cold slow frozen sounds live for eternity!!!! Get this Direct from band or Redsteam record!!!!!
1. Simon you've been writing for magazines for a while. What made you start FracturedSpacesRecords?
I started writing and editing a fanzine called Fractured in the early nineties, devoted entirely to the early ‘industrial music’ scene. At that time I concentrated on bands like Current 93, Nurse with Wound, Controlled Bleeding, and similar. My original intention with the ‘zine was to include a cover-mounted CD; however Fractured folded before I had a chance to put that idea into action. The present idea for the label came about through an idea I had concerning an exhibition of paintings I was looking to put together, for which I wanted a ‘soundtrack’. I got as far as talking to Jan Roger of Svartsinn about the possibility of commissioning him to produce something, but sadly, like many things, the exhibition never happened.
But out of that, the idea gradually formed of creating a label instead.And as a continuation of the original Fractured ‘zine, I decided to call it FracturedSpaces. So over the course of the last year or so, and after speaking to a few people within the industry,what was nothing more than a nebulous idea started to take on a firmer shape, until now, when it’s become a reality and I have three releases out.
2. What is the mission or goal for the label?
Simply stated, a place where experimental and underground artists both old and new, from anywhere in the world, can release quality music on a quality label and in quality packaging.I would like to see the label become a nexus for musical creativity, a place where artists can experiment freely and push boundaries. I would also like it to gain a wider reputation among the record-buying public for the same qualities.
3. You have released mostly drone and experimental titles. Is the label focused on more non-rock based music?
In all fairness, that’s only what I have been offered and have released so far. In the future, there is the possibility of releasing such material as doom metal, as well as black metal and other more structured musical forms. Essentially the label focuses on non-mainstream forms of musical expression, ranging from quiet ambient guitar pieces right up to power electronics, with everything in between. The only criterion is that it speaks to me in some way, or that it has an intangible quality that elevates it above the morass.
4. If there was one band the label could sign, "the dream project," who would it be and why?
That’s a difficult one, as there are so many acts out there that could be defined as a dream project. Merzbow is probably my favorite artist out there, so first and foremost I would love to sign him to release something. Nadja is another outfit that I would like to release something by too. A few others come to mind, such as Lustmord, Sunn O))), Nordvargr, Svartsinn, Grey Wolves… and too many others to mention.
5. I see you’re working with Daniel Menche, Aidan Baker and a few bigger names in the industrial and doom scenes - that must make you proud.
I am nothing if not ambitious, and part of that ambition is to work with good artists within the underground genres. The artists mentioned are all people whose work I particularly enjoy, so it’s even better that they consented to release something on the label and I am indeed very proud. Daniel Menche will be releasing a 12” vinyl LP and Aidan Baker I am looking to release some material of his that hasn’t been available for some time. Plus as the label grows, no doubt other artists of similar stature will start appearing on it too. However, I also think that lesser bands and artists have a valid place and should be given some exposure too.
6. How is the promotion and distribution going in this new modern digital age?
I would have to say time-consuming and expensive (haha). But one thing about the age of mass communications is that it’s a lot easier to make people aware of your existence and consequently the availability of the CDs. In that respects it’s a distinct advantage over the days when I was running the fanzine. The downside is of course that there are a great many other people doing the same thing, so it’s that much harder to get noticed.But I have a fair amount of good distribution now, which means the CD are widely available and that’s an immensely good thing. These first releases and those over the next couple of years will serve to help get me established and to underline my commitment to quality in both music and production.
7. Are there any Bands or styles of music the label would not work with?
Country and Western!! Seriously though, within the underground genres there isn’t much style-wise that I wouldn’t release – I am not that interested for instance in metal unless it’s doom, drone, or black metal. I won’t be releasing EBM or industrial dance, not because I don’t like it (in fact I do), but simply because I don’t think it quite fits in with the ethos of FracturedSpaces. The same goes for something like avant-garde jazz and similar; anything approaching new-age stupor is also out.
8. The packaging and artwork is very impressive and lavish in digipaks - is image and presentation as important as music to the label?
I think in an age where people are more sophisticated media-wise, and where expectations are that much higher as a result, plus the fact that the number of labels and releases is huge means that you have to go that little bit further to stand out. Although the first three releases were in digipaks I will also be releasing CDs in other types of packaging, but there’ll be the same attention to detail nonetheless and the same level of quality. I could have gone down the CDr route initially but somehow that just didn’t ring true for me and I just didn’t think it would help me to establish the label in the way I wanted it to. So yes, the overall production and standard of production is a very important component of the aesthetic of FSR and is a necessary adjunct to the music.
9. You have a MySpace and website now. Is Internet promotion a powerful sales tool or still just a small piece of the puzzle.
In this day and age it is an absolute necessity for promotional purposes at the very least and to keep everyone up-to-date with events and releases. However it is just one piece of many bits that go to make up the means by which the existence of FSR will be spread – I am looking to promote gigs and events soon as another means by which to get my name and face about. I am planning on having stalls at festivals and such. Plus of course there are radio stations and podcasts, all of which media will help to spread the word about FSR.
10. Would you co release or work on titles with other labels or do you want to keep all you do in-house?
I am not averse to working with other labels in principle, but it would have to be with a label who understands the ethos of FracturedSpaces and my insistence on top-notch production quality. I am not interested in just putting anything out there – there is a certain standard that I insist on keeping to and I won’t deviate from it.
11. Thank you for time - any closing thoughts here.
Closing thoughts? Only that within five years FracturedSpaces becomes an established and much-respected part of the underground musical landscape, a label where both well-known artists will find a home and new ones will find a great outlet to expose people to their music and provide greater opportunities for them. By that time I hope there will be regular FracturedSpaces events as well, plus other things as yet unthought of.
Dark Symphonic Gothic Metal with a very power guitar , bass and synth moving mixed in with some amazingly well done deep clean sung vocals is what I'm hearing on the 1st track. reminds me of bands like Amorphis, Iced Earth and Tiamat . Torn is so bass heavy is just makes the ribcage rumble. There are wonderful melodic harmony guitar and synth moments that sweep through out the release as well. The drummer while never over played is very tasteful and fits the mood and style of the project very majestically. There is a Bluesy soulful sound to this that you just can't fully put your finger on but it's there esp in the vocals and guitar tone. Tom S. Englund is one amazing vocalist. I almost want to call a power metal vocals but he more reminds me of prog metaller but Everygrey never get that techinical though close at moments as they like to add a lot of textural layers into there music and work. Holy Shit the 3rd track kicks in like the last day before armageddon!!!! The Love of Rage or Dio is fully on here!!! Well worth checking out...
http://spvusa.com/
ULI JON ROTH- UNDER A DARK SKY-CD (SPV RECORDS)
I'm not sure what to like about this Neoclassic Metal/ Prog force. I know the man was in the Hard Rock band The Scorpions in the 70's. This seems to be very much in the Ayreon and Rage with Orchestra vein of Metal Choirs, Orchestral, Synths, Percussion and Guitar movements. This is a very epic undertaking so say the least. There is a very heavy prog movement as there are times I swear this is E.L.P, Early Genesis, Jethro Tull . Under a dark sky will not be a release for everyone as its got so many layers and sounds going on with this story line . It's something I think that TSO fans would love very much as its almost a Rock opera in the making. I don't know if Uli has won me over as in some parts its just to avant rock and a little to poppy in sound for me but with this in mind. A Grand undertaking like this must be awed and respected. Check it out for yourself.
http://spvusa.com/
Netherbird- The Ghost Collector-CD (Pulverised Records)
Netherbird are a mix of many sounds but most close to bands like Bal Sagoth and Cradle of Filth in the Hyper chaotic Blackened Fantasy metal sound. If you have " Dusk and her Embrace" by Cradle of Filth and "Starfire Burning Upon the Ice-Veiled Throne of Ultima Thule" by BalSagoth. You have the style and sound that Netherbird is going for. It's quite a blast for the past on these old ears. The mix of Melody, Symphonic Grim and Clean Epic sung vocals. Mid tempo'ed blasting percussion and the guitars melodic but still very dirty and blackened in sound. There are moments that I heard bands like Dawn and Dissection trying to come through. I'm sure this has to do with the Swedish up bringing on the band leaders. Netherbird are really amazing at creating a dark and foreboding backdrop with there music and themes. Pulverised has one hell of a band here. Keep an eye on this one.
http://www.pulverised.net/netherbird.asp
THOSE WHO BRING THE TORTURE-TANK GASMASK AMMO-CD(Pulverised Records)
What we have here is plain and simple a love of Death Grind with a healthy dose of harmonic complexity in their sounds. If you a fan of Napalm Death, Impaled and Abcess then you have come to the right place. The vocals are pissed off. The guitars are razor sharp the bass is brutal and the drums are mammoth. The production on this is second to none and that is very rare these days as most grind influenced project want that raw and muddy sound but with " Tank Gasmask ammo" it could not be further from the truth. There are even some very catchy moments going on here. Another surprise release from a Asian label I knew very little about until receiving this batch of CD's to review for them. http://www.pulverised.net/twbtt.asp
Impiety- Dominator-MCD (Pulverised Records)
Impiety is a face fuck of Black Death are brutal and fast and steeped in the 90's sound as possible. This is what the days of Denim are all about. A blast of guitars, bass and drums with vocals the tear at your very soul with those reverbed moment were a line with echo in your mind for weeks. Impiety just want to hit you with as much metallic force as possible in the vein of Bathory or Sodom does. They have a strong love for bands like Carnal Forge and Hellhammer too. Dominator is not for the weak. Being an EP they come in and out very fast and leave you wanting more and I think that is Impiety goal so score another win for this Asian Death metal power house. 15 minutes of fury my friends remember " Angel of Death" was a classic at 29 minutes. We may have another here!!!!
http://www.pulverised.net/impiety.asp
Darkestrah - The Great Silk Road-CD (Paragon Records)
Pagan Black metal has seem to lay low over the last few years but with Darkestrah it seems to be making a powerful comeback. There is a very ritualistic element in the tools and primitive instrumentation that is being used almost with in eastern European flare. I want to say I have a feel that Vlad the impaler or Erik the Great will be rising from the grave do try and drive off the infidels off from there Father or Mother land. The music and feeling comes form a much more black metal sound very similar to Graveland and Drukdh to my ears at time even bands like Burzum seem to hold a key to the over all mood and tone of the music. The Atmosphere is very important here. Darkestrah have released a extreme metal album that few will be able to or want to match. Original, Innovative and more the anything interesting with multiple listen. kudos!!!
http://paragonrecords.org/
October Falls - The Womb Of Primordial Nature -CD (Debemur Morti Productions/ Moribund Cult)
Why do I even need to review this as I'm sure words like Perfect, Brilliant , Mindblowing are to simple of a thought or ideal for bands like October Falls . Everytime these 2 labels get together and release music its magic for any listener. October Falls are my Heathen/ Folk Metal heroes as of late. I use to be band like Falkenbach, Thryfing and Bathory. As we move into 2008 October Falls add all the elements one needs the acoustic guitar, drive black metal the epic arrangements, the cold feelings of the past winters and springs of rebirth. The massive vocal and string movements. There are moments where I hear bands like Opeth and Katatonia come through in the melloncoly feels and spirits of all but the Heathen soul always comes back to soar its banner high to the world. If you don't adore a band like this then your christian ways have made you lost to your true faith and humanity. Remember in the end its all about you and the nature and your surroundings. With bands like October Falls at least the ways of old can never be forgotten. Just Fantastic release we have here!!!!. http://moribundcult.com/
Arckanum - Antikosmos-CD(Debemur Morti Productions/ Moribund Cult)
Oh look another collab from these 2 label I wonder if this release is worth the merit I gave October Falls. If you like your Black metal of a much more older and vicious nature then you are going to kneel down and thank the Swedish metal gods for this release. Arckanum is a one man force of anger, aggression and spite to a world that give him no respect and kicks him in the teeth each and everyday. This is yet another project to remember there past and with the runes and heathen overtone I give Shamaatae full respect and honour. Antikosmos is about the darker side and the power it has for your beliefs remember when Black metal was something that un nerved you and you got your Cds by mailorder only from places like Blackmetal.com, Osmose, Redstream These are the feelings Arckanum present and remind me of. I really like that its sung fully in swedish as the nordic tongues seem to make Black metal all the more special. Another release I would highly recommend.
http://moribundcult.com/
Rudimentary Peni- No more Pain -CDEP (Southern Records)
UK Aggro Punk from a band that has been around for a very long while and seem to be just as nasty noisy and pissed off as ever. I love of The pistols, The Deadboys, Dead Kennedys and Nausea is very strong here and I here were bands like Neurosis, Antiseen, Buzzoven, Eyehategod came from. As the Crust and Dirge sounds that are almost metal are here. I never followed the band and have only ever heard select songs before but I can clearly see why the band has such a cult and loyal following from this ep alone. They are very good at what the do even 25 yrs later. With listening to No more pain I'm going to have to dig deeper and see what the buzz about this band really was. Good to see 25 yrs later a band can still keep the fire going. Check this out for sure if you like Noisy Punk with a message. http://southern.net/peni
1. Tell how Postman Syndrome morphed into Day without dawn and why???
Well we had a couple lineup changes, first with the replacement of our drummer in 2004 and then when Matt (guitar/vocals) quit in 2005. After that second change we decided not to replace Matt and scaled down to a four-piece lineup.
2. Day without dawn has grown from what I would call a straight out Emocore band early on became something so much more with elements of Neurosis, Ulver and bands like Polvo and Slint to name a few. There is a dark side and flowing element to it all?
Yeah we weren’t that happy with the first self-titled ep. We liked it at the time but it was written very quickly. The flaws started to present themselves over time. But every song of ours is intentionally supposed to be different from the ones preceding and following it, so maybe in the course of a longer record those songs would’ve had a place. On their own though I don’t feel like it was strong enough, or substantial enough, but time’s passed now and I’m proud of what we’ve done since then.
3. Your final release is released on Forgotten Empire - tell us how you came to work with them.
We were contacted by them. They’d heard our previous material and wanted to put out our next record. Not much to it really. The new East of the Wall record (a band comprised entirely of Biclops and/or former Postman Syndrome members) is coming out on Forgotten Empire as well.
4. Do you feel Day without dawn is a hard band to promote being you cross so many textures, sounds and genres of music?
That’s been the problem that all of these bands have faced. It’s not really that we cross genres, but more that we cross underground with mainstream sounds. We’d have an easier time promoting ourselves and fitting into shows if we either ditched the more singable vocals entirely, or if we fit them into a more straightforward verse/chorus structure.
5. Your now gone from Day without Dawn to Biclops and the sound seems to have gone even more avant and post hardcore in sound very much in the Isis, Kayo dot, Mastodon feeling - would this be correct?
That was intentional. It was partially due to the lineup changes, as Jim’s taste leaned more towards less aggressive material. We couldn’t deny however that we needed to have a new vocal focus since we lost our primary singer. A conscious decision was made that we’d place more emphasis on, for lack of a better term, “bringing the metal,” and utilizing more screamed vocals. Kevin and I both do some melodic vocals but they’re less of a centerpiece now. There’s more of a balance between the instruments.
6. What brought the end to Day without Dawn as I think "understanding consequences" is a stellar release and would have made the band very well known. It reminds me of this band called Bigwheel from NC actually. You could check them out - I think you would love them.
7. What are you hoping to achieve with Biclops?
I’d like to become CEO of the Earth and pile the hewn corpses of my enemies into a vulgar skyscraper. However I’d settle for constant touring while cash and women’s undergarments are showered upon us by the crowds. I’d also be nice to release a record that’s not associated with the breakup of a band.
8. What will 2008/2009 bring for Day Without Dawn/Biclops
Well 2008/2009/etc won’t bring anything for Day Without Dawn. That band’s done. Throw it into the fire. Pour salt on the ashes. However for Biclops we’ll spend the rest of the year finishing the record and playing as many shows as we can. By 2009 we’ll be recording said record, finding a label to release it, and then touring on it. I may also buy a new tie.
9. Thank you for the time any closing thoughts please here.
Thanks the interview. Our website is Biclops.net because Biclops.com is owned by an engineering firm, but I’m sure they’re nice people.
