Theatres Des Vampires confirm first UK show in five years

Theatres Des Vampires - Italy's leading metal band for all things vampyric - are set to return to the UK in April 2016 for their first UK show in five years. The vampire metal coven, fronted by Sonya Scarlett, have been announced to headline the Midnight Waltz at the Northern Symphony Festival, where they will join the likes of Alwaid, Suddenlash and Orpheum plus a whole range of bands that are still to be announced.

Formed in 1994 by former vocalist Lord Vampyr, Theatres Des Vampires have rose through the ranks of Europe's metal scene and have gone onto release several studio albums with another currently in the works.

The line-up for Northern Symphony Festival is currently as follows:

Midnight Waltz Stage:
Theatres Des Vampires
Alwaid (Special guest appearance)
Orpheum
Suddenlash (UK festival debut)

Infernal Orchestra Stage:

TBA

Further bands are still to be announced.

A limited number of early bird tickets are still available for £10 from this location. Tickets will be priced at the full price of £15 at midnight 15th November or when all early bird tickets sell out.

Northern Symphony Festival is the UK's only symphonic metal festival and will take place on Saturday 16th April 2016 at The Venue and The Riverside in Selby, North Yorkshire.

The event is 14+. Further details can be found at the festivals Facebook page.

Delain announce additional guitarist to line-up

Dutch metal band Delain have announced that Merel Bechtold is now a permanent and additional member of the band. In their announcement, the band stated that they decided to adopt Merel into the family and use double guitar power. This will no doubt add a heavier dynamic to Delain's sound.

Merel commented, saying:

I'm excited to become a permanent Delain member and hugely looking forward to the upcoming tours and albums. See you on the road!

Delain start their European tour later this month. Further details at this location.

Delain online:

http://delain.nl
http://facebook.com/delainmusic

[Review] Leaves' Eyes - Halvdan The Black

Leaves' Eyes have been a power house on the global symphonic metal scene for more than a decade now. The majority of their discography takes its influence - at  least lyrically - from the old stories and history of the Nordic nations, with Symphonies of the Night being an exception to that. To any Leaves' Eyes fan, it will come at no surprise that King of Kings is based around the history of Harald Fairhair, the first King of Norway, though my thoughts on the album will be reserved for another day. For now, I'm focusing on the band's latest single from the album, Halvdan The Black - who is best known as the father of the good king Harald Fairhair.

The song begins with the haunting sound of ritualistic tribal drums and chanting before the two shieldwalls of metal instrumentation and choir vocals clash on the proverbial battleground. Liv's vocals soar majestically throughout the song, like valkyries riding towards Valhalla whilst Alex's voice provides that thunderous savagery one would imagine a Norseman's voice to be like when screaming awe-inspiring battle cries. The guitar passages are memorable and lay down the backbone of this song alongside the drums. The orchestration and choirs weave a cold atmosphere of northern tragedy into the song, adding emphasis to the emotions in the music and Liv's voice.

From the sounds of this one track, Leaves' Eyes are still travelling forth with their new sound but are conjuring up spirits of their old sound in their everlasting journey to new musical horizons. Hopefully the album lives upto the expectations that have been made by this one single.

Leaves' Eyes online:
http://leaveseyes.de
http://facebook.com/leaveseyesofficial

[Review] Powerwolf - Blessed & Possessed

If you've never had the pleasure of listening to Powerwolf, then you are missing out. The band stray from the standard norms of power metal, focusing on darker lyrical subjects and painting their faces with corpsepaint. Blessed & Possessed is their sixth studio album.

The album opens up with the gothically tragic sounding title track, mixing a flurry of guitars, haunting organs and soaring vocals into song. The chorus hooks you, leaving you wanting to hear more of the song. Dead Until Dark greets you with an assault of melodic passages and poignant vocal melodies though the lyrics are predictably Powerwolf's. The varying instrumentation in Army of the Night make for perfect dance partners, as if the song itself were a grand-yet-crepuscular ball with music all of its own.

Armata Strigoi (allegedly Romanian for Undead Army) weaves together a tale of vampires as the instruments parallel one another following its grandiose opening. We Are The Wild comes across as a reworking of Sacred & Wild in places and in other sections, as a completely different song all together. The vocals and music travel at different paces but this works out well as both reach their intended destination. The highlight of the song is the august guitar solo that is followed by emotive orchestration.

Higher Than Heaven races forth with galloping organ steps and jumping guitars, both of which are backed up by the hefty sounding drums. Where as Christ & Combat is a well-planned battle strategy, commandeered by the authoritative vocals that lead the guitars and organs into a bloody foray with reinforcements provided by the drums and bass. Sanctus Dominus (Latin for Holy Lord) is very much like a hymn in the chorus but ignoring that one flaw with the track, the guitar flesh out a very NWOBHMesque approach to their sound and the vocals display a dynamic range.

Sacramental Sister begins like a guitar passage from Iron Maiden's Hallowed Be Thy Name and provides some energetic moments and really demonstrates the talents of each member. All You Can Bleed is a very poetic track, offering little nibbles of darkness before the dusk-tinted sobriety of Let There Be Night closes the album with atmospheric orchestration and twilit vocals.

Blessed & Possessed is just the latest chapter in Powerwolf's ever-darkening saga and it shows that they have no intention of slowing down and letting a younger pack take their place just yet. With a combination of old and new influences alike, this is one of the best power metal albums of the decade.

Powerwolf online:
http://powerwolf.net
http://facebook.com/powerwolfmetal

Aonia confirmed to support Red Rum at Valkyrian Festival

Midlands gothic power band Aonia have been confirmed to support Red Rum at Valkyrian Festival in November. The news comes following the recent announcement of Aonia postponing their European dates which were originally scheduled for later this month.

Valkyrian Festival will take place on Saturday 21st November at The Venue and The Riverside in Selby, North Yorkshire. Tickets are £10 and are available from this location.

Aonia online:
http://aonia.co.uk
http://facebook.com/aoniauk

First two bands announced for Northern Symphony 2016

Northern Symphony Festival has announced the first two bands for the 2016 edition of the festival.

Spanish theatrical metallers Suddenlash have been confirmed to their UK festival debut at Northern Symphony Festival. With a sense of tragedy that laments through their music and a strong sense of talent, Suddenlash are one band that must be seen live.

You can read my thoughts on their latest single at this location.

Joining the line-up as special guests are none other than the mystifying French melodic metal band Alwaid. Already with two UK tours under their belts and an appearance at Valkyrian Festival 2014, Alwaid are becoming recognised as one of France's finest musicial exports! The band comments:

It's both an honour and a great pleasure for Alwaid to be part of the next Northern Symphony Fest edition! The projet is young but has gained an immediate success showing that symphonic metal (in the widest sense of the genre!) has not overstayed its welcome yet. We know we'll get to share the stage with amazingly talented bands and meet with a madly enthusiastic audience, can't wait!

Early bird tickets are limited to only 100 and are available for £10 from either http://northernwyntermusic.bigcartel.com/ or http://northernwynter.bigcartel.com/

Once all the allocated early bird tickets have been sold, ticket prices will be £14!

Northern Symphony Festival will take place in Selby at The Venue and The Riverside on 16th April 2016.

Aonia postpone European dates

Midlands-based metal septet Aonia have announced that they're postponing their upcoming European dates with Alwaid following the recent development of illness with one of the members' partners. Alwaid will still be playing the advertised dates, which can be found below. In their announcement, Aonia said:

With heavy hearts, we must announce that we have to postpone the planned European tour this July with our good friends Alwaid. Sadly, the partner of one of our members has been diagnosed with a cancerous lymphoma. The doctors have begun treatment, and - as anyone who has undergone chemotherapy can attest - the side effects have left them extremely weak and ill. Our member feels unable to leave the country while their partner is so ill, a decision which we all agree with 100%. We also feel that embarking on our first foray into Europe with one member missing would be the wrong thing to do – and so, the only right thing to do in this circumstance is to withdraw. Alwaid and their support acts will still be appearing at the shows as planned, and we are extremely grateful to Alwaid for the support and understanding that they have shown. We thank you in advance, our friends and fans – the Aonia family – for your support while we help our bandmate through this horrible time.

As stated above, Alwaid will still be playing the European shows. Dates are as follow:

24th July - Rock Classic, Brussels (B)
25th July - De Verlichte Geest, Roselare (B)
26th July - The Pit, Antwerp (B)
27th July - The Sound Dog, Breda (NL)
28th July - Le Midland, Lille (F)

Aonia online:
http://aonia.co.uk
http://facebook.com/aoniauk

Seventh Sin Announce Plans To Split

Dutch metal sextet Seventh Sin have decided to call it a day after 12 years. The announcement was made via Facebook only moments ago. The announcement reads as follow:

After 12 years Seventh Sin have decided to call it a day. The band will split up after doing another 4 shows in The Netherlands and Belgium in July and September. After that, all band members will go their own way. 

We feel sad about splitting up, but we are looking back on great times and awesome memories, things we will be talking to our grandchildren about. About having the nerve to talk to a promotor about wanting to get on stage and ending up with a support show for Kamelot, about sharing stage with awesome bands like Epica, Delain, Leaves' Eyes, ReVamp, Xandria and Stream of Passion, about touring the UK with Edenbridge, about meeting people, making new friends, sharing a passion, enjoying every single minute of a gig….. Etc. 

We want to thank all fans, promotors, DJ's, reviewers, editors of magazines, sound and light crews, all bands we had the privilege to share the stage with, all stagehands and everyone else who made it possible for us to live our dream.
We will be thankful forever. 

Please know that we are saying goodbye with pain in our hearts and we will not leave you without a proper farewell show. We will keep you posted on everything that is to come.

The band's final shows are as follow:

18th July - Babes of Metal - Jan Hertog - Eisden - Maasmechelen (B) with Nightqueen and Valkyre
25th July – Chopperclub Run – Maaseik (B) (Private gig)
5th September – Uitmarkt – Tuchthuis – Eindhoven (NL)
- T.B.A. - Seventh Sin farewell show – NL

Seventh Sin online:

http://seventhsin.nl
http://facebook.com/seventhsinmetal

Stream Of Passion confirmed to join The Gentle Storm at three shows

Dutch-Mexican metal band Stream of Passion have been confirmed to join Anneke Van Giersbergen's The Gentle Storm at three shows in October as support. Dates are as follow:

3rd October - Breda, Mezz
9th October - Groningen, Vera
10th October - Ulft, DRU Cultuurfabriek

Stream of Passion online
http://streamofpassion.com
http://facebook.com/StreamOfPassion

Epica announce show in Calgary

Dutch metal titans Epica have announced their first show in Calgary in five years. The event will take place on 20th September at MacEwan Hall with support from Eluveitie and special guests The Agonist. Tickets are available from this location.

Epica online
http://epica.nl
http://facebook.com/epica

Powerwolf premier video for Army of the Night

Wolfish power metallers Powerwolf have recently unveiled the official video for their single, Army of the Night, taken from their upcoming album Blessed & Possessed. The album will be released via Napalm Records in July. The video can be viewed below.

The band commented on the video, saying:

Army Of The Night is one of the many songs of Blessed & Possessed we can't wait to perform live.

Already the very first time we played that song during the songwriting, the energy and dynamics literally blew us away and we felt like this is going to be a must-play. While many of the songs on Blessed & Possessed are very detailed and elaborated, this one is probably one of straightest and most compact Powerwolf songs to date.

Blessed & Possessed track listing:

01. Blessed & Possessed
02. Dead Until Dark
03. Army Of The Night
04. Armata Strigoi
05. We Are The Wild
06. Higher Than Heaven
07. Christ & Combat
08. Sanctus Dominus
09. Sacramental Sister
10. All You Can Bleed
11. Let There Be Night

You can also expect to see our review of Army of the Night in the next couple of days.

Powerwolf online:

http://powerwolf.net
http://facebook.com/powerwolfmetal
http://youtube.com/powerwolfmetal

Crimson Sun sign with Maple Metal Records and reveal new album details

Finnish melodic metal quintet Crimson Sun are known for their in your face style of playing and attitude. Recently, the band signed to Canadian label Maple Metal Records and will release their debut album, Towards The Light, worldwide on 3rd August. As part of the deal Maple Metal Records will re-release the band’s 2013 EP The Border, recorded with the same line up as the new album.

Towards the Light was recorded last Fall at Deep Noise Studios, Kouvola, Fi with Saku Moilanen, and the mastering was done by Jacob Hansen (Epica, Volbeat, Amaranthe, Primal Fear) in Denmark. The album cover art is by renowned Serbian artist Slobicus Doomicus. An official video for the title track Towards the Light will be streamed online to coincide with the album's release.

Track listing for Towards the Light:

1. The Storm2. Eye of the Beholder3. Awaken4. Towards the Light5. The Herald6. Portrait of a Ghost7. Enter the Silence8. The Spark9. Clockwork Heart10. Memories Burning

Crimson Sun was founded in 2001 by guitarist Joni Junnila, and the band went through various member changes before settling down with the quintet that recorded their EP The Border in 2013. Crimson Sun will be supporting Finnish metallers Poisonblack on a mini-tour in August, with some Fall dates to be announced soon with other artists. Dates are as follow:

14/8 - Dark River Festival 2015, Honkala, Fi w/ Poisonblack, Shear, Ranger, Ghost Brigade
14/8 - Virgin Oil, Helsinki w/ Poisonblack

Crimson Sun online:

http://crimsonsun.net 

[Review] Suddenlash - Shelter

Mainland Europe is home to many talented bands, be it the big hitters of the scene such as Epica or Nightwish to the lesser known forces such as Alwaid and Hydra. It is also home to one band in particular, a band with such an enthralling sound, it's hard to break away from the hypnosis of their music. I am of course, referring to Spanish metal band Suddenlash.

Shelter was released as a single last month (May 2015) and it's taken from the band's album Soul's Revenge. The song begins with the emotive ballad of piano keys before the tragic waltz of orchestration leads the dance towards the blazing vocals and sharp guitar riffs. The vocals and music make for perfect dance partners, each changing with the tempo and atmosphere of the composition. The orchestration that shimmers throughout the track bolsters the emotion and sense of foreboding tragedy, allowing for the heavier elements of the song to go about their business, carefully yet fiercely stepping with the august vocals.

While I have yet to hear the whole album, Shelter is a captivating piece of music and strongly portrays the essence and talents of Suddenlash. I will be very surprised if they're not touring Europe and playing major festivals by this time next year.

Suddenlash online:

http://facebook.com/Suddenlash

http://twitter.com/suddenlash

Heonia and Dakesis confirmed for Valkyrian Festival 2015

French melodic metallers Heonia have been confirmed, alongside Birmingham based progressive power metal quartet Dakesis, to appear on the Valhalla Stage at the final edition of Valkyrian Festival. Heonia and Dakesis will be playing alongside the likes of blackened doom tyrants Severed Heaven as well as Victorian-styled steam punks A Clockwork Opera and dark power metal unit Winter Storm.

Heonia and Dakesis are also in the process of organising a few UK dates around the time of the festival.

Valkyrian Festival will take place on 21st November at The Venue and The Riverside in Selby. The event is sponsored by Femetalism.co.uk. Advance tickets are a mere £10 and can be purchased here. Further details can be found at this location.

Cathar confirmed to support Diamond Head

Liverpuddlian folk metallers Cathar have recently announced that they will be supporting NWOBHM legends Diamond Head at the Live Rooms in Chester. The show will take place on 25th June. Tickets are priced at £15 and can be purchased from this location.

Cathar released their debut EP The Grimoire earlier this year. You can read our review of it here.

Cathar online:
http://facebook.com/catharofficial

Nightwish announce North American tour for 2016

Finland's premier metal outfit Nightwish have announced a 26 date headlining tour of North America in 2016. The tour will start on 19th February in Sayreville, New Jersey and is scheduled to hit six Canadian cities plus Pittsburgh, Anaheim and New Orleans before finishing up in Tampa, Florida on 23rd March. Joining Nightwish again on the North American continent will be Dutch metallers Delain, who have just been on tour with Nightwish around North America.

Advance tickets for the confirmed tour dates are now on sale exclusively at EnterTheVault.com. A limited number of VIP meet-and-greet tickets (which include a poster signed by the band and a tour program) are available for each show for purchase. Tickets will go on sale 6th June at all other outlets.

Tour dates are as follow:

19th Feb - Starland Ballroom - Sayreville, NJ
20th Feb - Webster Theater - Hartford, CT
21st Feb - Metropolis - Montreal, QC
22nd Feb - Music Hall - London, ON
24th Feb - Carnegie Music Hall - Pittsburgh, PA
25th Feb - LC Pavilion - Columbus, OH
26th Feb - Royal Oak Music Theatre - Royal Oak, MI
27th Feb - Rave - Milwaukee, WI
29th Feb - First Avenue - Minneapolis, MN
1st Mar - Burton Cummings Theatre - Winnipeg, MB
2nd Mar - O'Briens Events Center - Saskatoon, SK
3rd Mar - Winspear Center - Edmonton AB
5th Mar - MacEwan Hall Ballroom - Calgary, AB
6th Mar - Wilma Theatre -Missoula, MT
7th Mar - Showbox SoDo - Seattle, WA
08th Mar - Knitting Factory - Boise, ID
10th Mar - Knitting Factory - Reno, NV
11th Mar - City National Civic of San Jose - San Jose, CA
12th Mar - The Grove - Anaheim, CA
14th Mar - Rialto Theatre - Tucson, AZ
15th Mar - City Auditorium - Colorado Springs, CO
16th Mar - Uptown Theater - Kansas City, MO
18th Mar - Diamond Ballroom - Oklahoma City, OK
19th Mar - Aztec Music Hall - San Antonio, TX
20th Mar - New Orleans Civic Theatre - New Orleans, LA
21th Mar - Iron City Live - Birmingham, AL
23th Mar - The Ritz - Tampa, FL

Nightwish online:

http://nightwish.com
http://facebook.com/nightwish

Aonia confirmed to support Leaves' Eyes in Sheffield

Midlands and Yorkshire based Gothic power septet Aonia have been announce to support Norwegian-German metal titans Leaves' Eyes at The Corporation in Sheffield on 6th November. Also on the bill are Battlebeast and Dynosis.

Tickets for the show are £13 in advance and are available from all the usual outlets as well as The Corporation's website.

Commenting on the announcement, Aonia co-vocalist Melissa comments:

This is a huge honour for us to be supporting one of the best symphonic metal bands on the planet. We're massive fans of the band are are really looking forward to playing with Leaves' Eyes!

With a recent appearance at The Dames of Darkness with Sirenia and many more, Aonia are becoming a recongised name on the British metal scene. The band will also embark on a UK tour next week with Lost Effect and Alwaid. Dates are as follow:

27th May - HULL - O'Rileys
28th May - LEICESTER - The Shed
29th May - DUDLEY - Rock Zombie
30th May - LEEDS - Temple of Boom (Lost Effect will not be at this show)
31st May - SHEFFIELD - South Sea Live

Aonia online:
http://aonia.co.uk
http://facebook.com/aoniauk
http://twitter.com/aonia_band

Leaves' Eyes announce collaboration with London Voices

Norwegian-German metallers Leaves' Eyes have recently announced that they'll be working with the London Voices choir for their upcoming album. The announcement came as a post on the band's official Facebook page and reads as follows:

Dear Fans & Friends,
fantastic news! We proudly announce the collaboration with choir ensemble London Voices for the upcoming Leaves' Eyes album! Choir master, Terry Edwards, and the superb London Voices choir have been been working on blockbuster movies e.g. "Lord of the Rings", "Star Wars", "The Hobbit", "Harry Potter" or "Interstellar". Moreover, they added the perfect epic strength and spirit to our music! The recordings took place at the famous Angel Studios in London.
Stay tuned for more details of the upcoming Leaves' Eyes album!

Leaves' Eyes recently headlined The Dames of Darkness Festival in Bilston and will return to the UK in November. Further details about the tour can be found at this location.

Leaves Eyes' online:

http://leaveseyes.de
http://facebook.com/leaveseyesofficial
http://twitter.com/Leaves_Eyes

Epica announce UK tour

Dutch metal titans Epica have announce a small run of UK shows to take place in November with Eluveitie and Scar Symmetry. The tour will be in support of the band's latest release, The Quantum Enigma, which was released last year through Nuclear Blast. Mark Jansen comments:

We had such a great time when we played an one-off UK show at The Forum last year that we will come back for a short run of UK dates this autumn. We will be joined on this run by Eluveitie and Scar Symmetry. I am very pleased to tour with this strong package. I’m sure you all won’t regret coming out to one of these shows and partying with us. See you!

Tour dates are as follow:

11-11-2015 UK-Bristol O2 Academy
12-11-2015 UK-Manchester Ritz
14-11-2015 UK-Glasgow Garage
15-11-2015 UK-London Forum

Epica online:

http://epica.nl
http://facebook.com/epica

As Night Falls announce new bassist

Polish metal quintet As Night Falls have announced their new bassist as Pawel "Siro" Siruga. The announcement was recently made on the band's Facebook page and loosely translates to:

We are pleased to announce that the search for a new bass player came to an end. The new operator of the paddle in the bass As Night Falls is Pawel "Siro" Siruga. And now for a little over a month you will be able to see and hear him in action, look at the profile!

As Night Falls online:
http://asnightfallsband.com
http://facebook.com/asnightfallsband

[Interview] Paul Cooper - A Clockwork Opera - April 2015

Based in Manchester, A Clockwork Opera fuse symphonic metal with all things Victorian and steampunk. Having recently made their live debut at the first edition of the UK's only symphonic metal festival Northern Symphony, I caught up with the band's guitarist, songwriter and all-round main man Paul Cooper.

What's the meaning and concept behind the band's name, A Clockwork Opera?

To be honest it seemed like a natural choice for the band's name. I came up with this relatively early on. The first few songs I wrote were quite Steampunk themed so the Clockwork comes from there. The Opera part is simply from the fact that it was always going to be a Symphonic Metal band but I also had the intention of including some form of theatricality to our image.

You recently made your live debut at the Northern Symphony Festival, what was that like for you and do you think it was a success?

Northern Symphony was amazing. It showed the wealth and diversity of the current Symphonic Metal scene. We were all very excited about playing there, especially considering it would be our debut. It was definitely a success from our point of view and it was a great opportunity to introduce ourselves to the right audience and meet new friends at the same time.

When can we expect to see an album or EP released?

There are no guarantees yet but we plan on entering the studio in the next couple of months. We are likely to release an EP first since we're so eager to share our work with everyone.

What plans are in the works for the band?

More gigs, obviously. We can't reveal the details at the moment but we will be announcing more dates very soon. And also recording. At the moment we have Rowan Andrews, who created our logo and the artwork for Femetalism (support this site!) working on some concepts for sketches for us.

What are the major lyrical themes and concepts in the band's music?

Whilst we try not to pigeonhole ourselves so people can interpret what we do in their own way I think it is rather obvious that we have a strong Victorian theme. We write about history and we write stories but we try to make everything relevant to the period. Everyone has their own input to the writing process but I mainly write stories. There are characters and there are plots. Like any author, every character I write about has a back story and a life of their own.

Where do you see the band being in five years?

I think it's a little bit too early to know at the moment. This band is still in it's infancy and we are just trying to get a name for ourselves. I'd just like us to still be here in a year, let alone five at the moment.

Given the chance, which band would you tour with?

Everyone in the band would answer this one differently. I'm not sure I could pick just one either. My biggest inspiration musically is a band called X Japan. Not many people over here know them but in Japan they are MASSIVE! I would donate limbs to support them (Not mine, obviously). On a smaller more achievable scale, there is another band from near us called Reign of Sirius who are excellent. Their music and themes are of a style that work very well with our own and we would love to do more shows with them in the future.

How did the idea for A Clockwork Opera come about?

I started this originally about two years ago on my own. My intention back then was to make a Steampunk metal band. I soon came to realise that this gimmick would wear thin very quickly and would have been so niche that it would probably never catch on. That's how it came to expand to having a Victorian theme, Steampunk stories would still work whilst then having a much larger scope of themes to draw from.

A Clockwork Opera online:
http://facebook.com/aclockworkopera

Venue change for first date of Sunset Symphony UK Tour

Aonia's headline UK tour - Sunset Symphony - will take place from 27th May through to 31st May. Following the closure of Basement Nightclub in Bridlington the first date of the tour will now take place at O'Rileys in Hull. The bill includes the original line-up scheduled for the Bridlington show plus local support in the form of death metal band Teras.

Sunset Symphony UK tour dates are as follows:

27th May - HULL, O'Rileys
28th May - LEICESTER, The Shed
29th May - DUDLEY, Rock Zombie
30th May - LEEDS, Temple of Boom
31st May - SHEFFIELD, South Sea Live

The Leeds show will not include York metallers Lost Effect.

Tickets for the first date of the tour, which is the only show to have advance tickets, are available from this location.

Aonia will also be supporting Sirenia at this year's Dames of Darkness Festival on Saturday 9th May in Bilston at The Robin 2.

Aonia online:
http://aonia.co.uk
http://facebook.com/aoniauk

Sirenia confirmed to headline Brynerocken

Gothic metallers Sirenia, whom have recently signed to Napalm Records, have been announced to headline the Brynerocken Festival in Norway on 5th September. Tickets for the event are available at this location.

Sirenia will also be headlining the Dame of Darkness Festival in the UK on 9th May, where they will share the stage with likes of Aonia, Winter In Eden and more.

Sirenia online:
http://sirenia.no
http://facebook.com/sirenia

[Review] Armenia - Lopsided Moon

Lopsided Moon is the debut release from Canadian symphonic metal act Armenia whom are fronted by Armenia Sarkissian. Finding information on this act is no easy task and Armenia's Facebook page offers little up as well, only stating that the project is "symphonic/gothic metal with Armenian motifs for good measure".

The album opens up with the tragic sounding My Own Self, that serves up a feast of different dishes from the dramatic orchestral paths to the emotion stirring vocals and the integral metal regions. Lidwina opens up with an obsessively foreboding choir passage that really does cause shivers to run down the spine, The rest of the track makes use of Armenia's affectional vocals and the noble, awe-inspiring orchestrations that make this project so intriguing.

Vapour musters a sentimental piano entrance that really highlights the strength and beauty of Armenia's voice.The orchestral avenues reinforce the power of the song, as well as creating new dynamics that connect well with the heavier segments of the piece. The sound in Broken Chords ranges from crepuscular and dusky to rich and lustrous. The Middle Eastern melodies that make cameo appearances enhance the beauty hidden within this piece,

The enchanting dancing of piano notes and acoustic musicianship found in Grounded By My Feet conjure up a delicate atmosphere and allow the fascinating vocals to glide ever so gently in, like a a robin on a fresh winter morn. The title track, Lopsided Moon, roars out with a majestically fateful sound that combines all the finest and exquisite elements of Armenia's musics, from the tragic orchestrations through to the propulsive metal passages and Armenia's angelic voice. The appearance of Milen Petzelt-Sorace's vocal work adds a very vicious ferocity to the music, that contrasts well with the divine-like elements found within the rest of the track.

Lopsided Moon is a stunner of a debut album and leaves the listener wanting more from Armenia. Where most bands achieve a good debut at best, Armenia has provided a masterpiece that can only be likened to albums from acts such as Leaves' Eyes and Within Temptation.

Armenia online:
http://www.facebook.com/ArmeniasMusic

[Review] Invictus - Invictus

Unless you're constantly searching for new music or are completely dedicated to your preferred genres, a lot of bands will probably be under your radar. Invictus from Romania could be one of those bands to have flown below the aforementioned proverbial radar. Surprisingly there's little information about the band, even on their official website and Facebook page.

The band's debut self-titled release, which was released last month, opens up with the synth orientated track Descent before rushing into the bombastic power metal assault of the title track, Invictus. The guitar riffs immediately hook the listener's ears, performing a well orchestrated dance with the keyboards which create a very haunting aspect to the song.

Conquer portrays itself as a driving force, stirring together well thought out keyboard passages and complex yet simple drum sections. The guitars and bass are on top form but the vocals sound very uninspired for this style of music, falling flat of the band's full potential. The lyrics are very gothique, almost like they were taken from a Powerwolf track. An august shaded orchestration introduces the song Warhorse, which is filled with chilling vocals and cimmerian melodies and an imposing atmosphere of blackened grandeur.

Turn of the Tide shows the band's ability at composing more melodic passages, conjuring forth from the nether a series of melodic and catchy riffs. The vocals on the other hand vary in their strength, coming across as weak during in the verses but beaming with strength during in the choruses. The piano and orchestrated segments of Sorrow of the Forsaken call out with emotion, laying a sorrowful path for the solemn vocals to tread along, leading up to the fierce snarls of the guitars.

The guitars in Unchain The Beast lash out like a slaver's whip, fast, sharp and without mercy, carving out their own route throughout the song leaving strained vocals to follow in their wake. Fallen Angel appears to be the name of what would be a faux-Gothic track but it unleashes something far more vigorous, making use majestic orchestrations and howling guitars.

Black Widow, for the most part, sounds like a heavy rock song than a power metal track. Even the vocals sound almost like those of Halestorm's Lzzy Hale. The guitars and drums are the main driving force of the song, acting like the vanguard amidst the battle field. Invictus' self-titled release comes to an allegded soothing end with REVolution as a peaceful orchestration takes hold at the beginning, leading the listen into a garden of blazing vocals, crashing riffs and celestial orchestration.

Musically, Invictus is on the same level as releases such as Epica's The Divine Conspiracy and Nightwish's Wishmaster but it's the vocal work brings the album down. Whereas elements such as the guitars and keyboards are built up by a staunch wall of musicianship, the vocals wax and wane throughout the album, weakening the power of the release itself.

Invictus online:

http://invictus.rocks
http://facebook.com/InvictusRomania
http://twitter.com/Invictus_RO

Leaves' Eyes announce UK tour

Norwegian-German titans of folk-infused symphonic metal Leaves' Eyes have announced the dates for their 2015 UK tour, which will be in support of their new album. Details of the new album are still to be announced.

Leaves' Eyes, who are fronted by exceedingly talented Liv Kristine, will be in the UK in November later this on the following dates:

03.11.2015 UK - Southampton, Talking Heads
04.11.2015 UK - Bristol, Marble Factory
05.11.2015 UK - Wolverhampton, Slade Rooms
06.11.2015 UK - Sheffield, Corporation
07.11.2015 UK - Glasgow, The Audio
08.11.2015 UK - Manchester, Academy 3
10.11.2015 UK - London, 02 Islington Academy

Tickets for the tour go on sale on Thursday 16th April. And if you can't wait that long to see Leaves Eyes in the UK, they'll be headlining the second night of The Dames of Darkness Festival in Bilston on Sunday 10th May.

Leaves' Eyes online:

http://leaveseyes.com
http://facebook.com/leaveseyesofficial

[Review] Cathar - The Grimoire

Cathar - a six piece band that reside in the former Lancastrian territory of Liverpool - are fairly new on the scene who fuse folk metal with symphonic elements. I only discovered them in March and saw them live on the Infernal Orchestra stage at Northern Symphony Festival. The Grimoire is their first release.

The chilling sounds of keyboards open up the first track, entitled Prologue, as a Lord of the Rings-esque narration follow throughout the track conjuring an archaic, majestic atmosphere paving the way for the Winter's Curse which screams out with riffs reminiscent of Iron Maiden. The dual vocals carve their own path through the music. And it is a relief to a hear a band of this genre not using the typical be-and-the-beast vocals, but rather a pair of clean male and female vocals that ring out with a grandiose sound.

Carpathia sets the mood with haunting winds and a Dracula-like quote. The slow crescendo, built up by the bass and drums, helps dramatise the mood whilst Chris' vocals assail with power. Aimee's vocals add a different dynamic to the music with despair-ridden vocals, injecting to the near Gothic style of the song. The guitar conjurings by Alex are hypnotic, almost infectious though Jade's keyboard working are barely heard.

The Pirate King is instantly recognisable by the opening stream of accordion and the piratical vocal melodies. Carl's bass styling is easily witnessed through this shanty, carefully sailing through the oceans of the other elements of the song. Shieldmaiden might sound like its going to be a full frontal assault of high spaced metal and the wailing voice of Lagertha from Vikings but its far from that. Rather it takes a slower pace for its march, allowing Aimee to take the lead with vocals. The melody of the track isn't flashy but it is memorable.

Spirit Dance is an enchanting piece of work, beginning with a mix of Chris' vocals, Danny's rhythmic percussion work and Carl's bass lines, creating the sound and sensation of old world music that speaks to the deepest depths of the listener's soul. Of course, the track turns heavier later on but it still retains that mystique the band created at the beginning. And so The Grimoire ends with Epilogue, another track composed of narration.

Cathar are a band with a lot of potential but The Grimoire doesn't do their sound any justice due to the quality as the dynamics and elements don't jump out at the listener like some enraged Nordic raider. The band's sound appears to come off better in the live arena, where the energy can be felt pulsating throughout each note. However, The Grimoire is quite becoming for a first release.

Cathar online:

http://facebook.com/CatharOfficial
http://twitter.com/CatharOfficial

Winter Storm announced for main stage at final Valkyrian Festival

Midlandic melodic metallers Winter Storm are the first (and currently only) band to be announced to play the Valhalla Stage for the 2015 edition of Valkyrian Festival, which is also set to be the last ever Valkyrian Festival.

Valkyrian Festival: The Requiem For Valhalla will take place at both The Venue and The Riverside on Ousegate in Selby, North Yorkshire with the Valhalla Main Stage being hosted in The Venue and the Danelaw Stage being hosted in The Riverside.

The event will take place from 14:00 on Saturday 21st November. Tickets are available for the price of £10 from this location. An additional 13 bands, including headliners, are still to be announced with a few other surprises as well.

Winter Storm online:

http://winter-storm.com
http://facebook.com/winterstormUK

Delain announce The Human Contradiciton 2015 UK tour

Dutch symphonic metal outfit Delain have confirmed four shows to take place in the UK - Well, the part of the UK that is England - in October, later this year, in support of their latest album The Human Contradiction. This will be the band's second in the UK this year, the first time being at Bloodstock Festival in August on the Sophie Lancaster Stage.

The shows are as follow:

22nd October - Bristol, Marble Factory
23rd October - Birmingham, Institute Factory
24th October - Manchester, Academy 2
25th October - London, Islington O2 Academy

Delain also kick start their North American tour today with Nightwish and Sabaton.

Delain online:

http://delain.nl
http://facebook.com/delainmusic

[Interview] Raedon Mac - Control The Storm - Feb 2015

Having recently reviewed Control The Storm's upcoming album Beast Inside, I caught up with the band's keyboardist Raedon Mac to pick his brain and see what makes him tick.

What were the main inspirations and influences for the new album, Beast Inside?

We didn't really start out with a vision for the finished product, we started work on the album 2 years ago and in all honest we were a very different band back then in terms of what we thought we were doing. One theme that has always been a part of our music is " personal struggle" and how best to overcome against the odds. With changing the lead vocalist 3/4 of the way through the process and totally re working the whole album to suit Kate's writing style, ultimately the overall feel of the album changed and started to make more sense. Myself and Rich work very well together in coming up with melodies that work and he is very good at fitting heavy guitars over my plonks on the piano so it's a good partnership.

Are there any major themes running through the new album?

Personal sacrifice, the ongoing battle against the daemons in your mind, suicide and loss, regaining strength through overcoming the battles of day to day life. If you really get into the lyrics you will see that it start out with a battle and as the album progresses you get a bit of drama, tension, suspense, and then the reality that the beast inside, that's been holding you back, controlling you, or ultimately just who you are deep down is a part of you and it's up to you how you let it be a part of your life.

How does Beast Inside compare to the band's 2010 debut EP?

The reality is that we have put a lot more into the album and invested way more in it so I would say primarily that the production is better, that's not to say the original demo was poorly produced because I'd say it was as good as I could have been and in my opinion a far higher quality that most bands put out there. it was a benchmark that I feel we have shown true progression. We have included the songs from the original EP and have RE-Recorded them to bring them up to date. as you can expect if you play songs for long enough they tend to evolve and Kate did such a fantastic job making them her own and I feel she has made them better.

2015 is already shaping up to be a busy year for Control The Storm, with the release of the new album, the UK tour in March and of course the appearance at Northern Symphony. What else can we expect from Control The Storm this year?

Well yes of course the release of the debut album is going to be big for us. We are going to be recording at least 2 more music videos for this album, and will hopefully have album 2 written and recorded by December. As well as all the gigs we can get our hands on! we are looking for label backing and will also be doing as much PR and promotion as we can to get the album heard by as many people as we can and then 2016 will hopefully be a full summer of festivals and more touring.

Kate Norris was recently unveiled as the band's new vocalist. What was the fans reception of her like?

We were very sad to see Hayley leave the band. we had nearly finished the album and were looking at how we were going to move forward. Thankfully we found Kate and we managed to get half the album recorded again in a short space of time. The rest of the album just feel into place really which gave us the time to rehearse and start thinking about gigs again.

We were worried that people would turn on us a little but in all honesty, the reception has been incredible. We did build it up quite a lot and it could of gone the other way and been the demise of the band but thankfully things seem to be heading in more of a positive light. We ended 2014 on a high with 2 really good shows, gained loads of new fans and got the buzz we had experienced during 2012 when we played at Bloodstock Open Air.

Control The Storm hail from Bristol. What's the metal scene there? Is there anything you would do to improve it?

The Bristol metal scene is great, plenty of awesome venues, and great touring bands come through on a daily basis! if I were to change anything it would be the frequency that local acts play the city. And if the promoters stopped putting soft rock on with extreme death metal followed by teen core bands that would be great. I hate to say it, but maybe fewer gigs would boost attendance in the city. But that just my opinion!

What have been your best and worst gig experiences so far?

Best gig with CTS has to be Bloodstock 2012! it was a dream come true and one I want to see the band live again. I was fortunate enough to appear at BOA Last year as The Marauder Snagglefoot on the main stage with Evil Scarecrow. I now have the desire to match that experience with CTS. 2016 maybe.

Worst gig? Metal to the masses Final at the Fleece in Bristol. My laptop played up all the way through the set and Rich suffered technical issues with the cab he was supplied as the speaker cable kept on "popping" out of the back of the cabinet every time he did any palm muting! it ruined the set and left us feeling really deflated!

If you were to replace the soundtrack to any film with your own music, which one would it be and why?

I would replace the theme music from Star Wars with Beast Inside obviously and just because I can.

In your opinion, what is the best keyboard to use for music?

Personally I use Roland and I think I always will. Roland are built to last and all of mine have. My AX-Synth has had a couple of repairs but that mainly down to me dropping it or pouring beer in it!

If I had all the money in the world and could get Roland and Korg to work together?
I would have a custom AX-Synth made with a wireless midi built in and have the sound module from the old Korg Triton Extreme workstation!

To be honest, piano and synths are more about the player than the keyboard.

You have a mighty impressive beard. What advice would you give to someone growing a beard?

Never give up on your dreams! A man doesn't grow a beard, a beard grows the man! Never forget that! Also look after your beard, it will look after you! If you believe you can achieve! And if anyone ever asks you how a man shaves his beard? The only response is: A MAN DOESN'T!

Control The Storm online:

http://controlthestorm.com
http://facebook.com/controlthestorm

Ethereal confirmed to headline Infernal Orchestra stage at Northern Symphony

Liverpool's black metal legion Ethereal have been announced as the headliner for the Infernal Orchestra stage at Northern Symphony Festival. Bombarding audiences around the UK for over a decade, they have become one of the most prominent acts on the British black metal scene, showing no mercy as they unleash their unique, tactically executed brand of symphony metal.

Showcasing Ethereal's most focused, dynamic, and explosive work to date, Opus Aethereum advances beyond the sound of their past and demonstrates their scope and potential for the future. The album is aggressive, extreme, and ridden with urgency; the rhythms shift in an instant from inhuman speeds to slow, doom-laden passages. Eerie symphonic soundscapes intertwine with pulverizing riffs and hypnotic guitar melodies, accented by vocals delivered with malice and hateful vitriol. Opus Aethereum is the manifesto of a band set on rising to the forefront of UK black metal scene - and beyond.

Announced alongside Ethereal for the Infernal Orchestra stage are German metallers Hydra, who formed in the autumn months of 2013. The band's upcoming album, which is set for release on 20th February this year, will fetaure Leaves' Eyes frontwoman Liv Kristine. This will mark Hydra's first time in the UK.

Hydra was formed by Chris Diefenbach and Lisa Rieger in October 2013. The first ten songs, which primarily fall into the category of melodic metal, took shape within a matter of months. One thing was clear to both Lisa and Chris: this was song material with potential that simply had to be released. Both of the Regensburg musicians are old hands in the scene: Chris was a live guitarist for the band Burden on their 2011 Germany tour (to name one example) and Lisa has also seen many different corners of Germany with the symphonic metal band Terrateya and other musical projects.

Northern Symphony Festival is the UK's first ever festival dedicated purely to the varying forms of symphonic metal and boasts a line-up that features the best of the UK's symphonic metal scene as well as samples of the European scene. 

Northern Symphony will be held at The Venue and The Riverside in Selby, North Yorkshire on 4th April 2015. Advance tickets are available for £10 from http://northernwyntermusic.bigcartel.com

Black metal legends Hecate Enthroned confirmed for Norway's Blastfest

British black metal legends Hecate Enthroned have been confirmed to partake in Norway's Blastfest in February. The band's dark, cold and mystifying sound is a sure fit for the landscapes of Norway.

Hecate Enthroned emerged as one of the most intense bands to come out of the Black Death Metal scene. Dedicated to delivering their own brand of truly evil metal with little regard to politics or the trends of popular demand. 2013 saw the band sign a new album deal with Italian label Crank Music Group and the release of their highly anticipated studio album Virulent Rapture, which was praised highly by the press. 

Tickets and further information about Blastfest are available from this location.

Hecate Enthroned online:

http://hecateenthroned.com
http://facebook.com/hecateenthroned

[Review] Control The Storm - Beast Inside

Hailing from Bristol in the UK are melodic metallers Control The Storm. With an appearance at the UK's biggest metal festival, Bloodstock, under their belts and their new vocalist, Kate Norris, Control The Storm are set to take 2015 by... Well, storm. Beast Inside is set to be the second release for the Southwest-based six piece.

Days Of Days opens up the album with a crashing partnership of drums, keys and guitars before the hypnotic vocal melodies sail their way in on the raging seas of music. The keys and vocals glide ever so elegantly, side by side. Hysteric Silence keeps the thundering ferocity of the drums and graceful steps of the keys and vocals with a handsome combination of guitars and bass. The occasional scream allows the song a crepuscular dimension, that melds gently into the music.

The chorus of guitars skillfully begins the third track of the album: Believe, building up the tension before the action-filled riffs come crashing down like the executioner's axe. Kate's vocals shine out exceedingly on during in this song. No Chance At All is enticed forward by an alluring yet haunting dance played across the keys, leading the way for the tactful use of guitars and charming vocals. Falling has a gentler, more cautious sound that shows a dove-like dynamic to Control The Storm's cadence,depicting a landscape of emotion with music as the colours.

Nothing Hurts blasts forth like a combination of Nightwish and Rhapsody of Fire. However the energetic leap of vocals and driving licks soon change this, Although the song has a misty, sombre change of pace near the end. The celestial stepping of keys introduces the poignantly emotional track Stronger, which is another example of the band's talent, swaying from silky to heavy with each passing verse. Whereas False Eternity enjoys the comforts of an entirely stygian sound, summoned like an ethereal apparition by the bewitching musicianship.  

Twisted Truth truly lets rip with an overbearing introduction of melodic guitar passages before sailing in safer waters with a darling combination of keys and vocals, though when the guitars return once more they are less melodic, allowing the keys to entrance with their medleys instead. The album comes to its final chapter with the title track, Beast Inside, a snarling maelstrom of experimental riffs, nuclear medleys and dangerous vocals. As the expression goes, "save the best for last" and that is certainly the case with this song.

Though a few aspects of the album feel stale and outdated, Beast Inside, is a breath of fresh air in a scene that has become so stagnant with bands trying to replicate the sound of the bigger acts. Control The Storm have forged their own individual sound which burns bright throughout this album.

Control The Storm online:

http://controlthestorm.com
http://facebook.com/controlthestorm 

Delain announce Bloodstock 2015 appearance

Dutch metallers Delain, who were formed by former Within Temptation keyboardist Martijn Wesserholt, have been announced to appear at this year's Bloodstock Festival in the UK on the Sophie Lancaster stage. The Bloodstock appearance follows the band's November 2014 sold-out UK tour.

Delain vocalist and frontwoman Charlotte Wessels said on her official Facebook page:

So happy to finally announce that we'll be playing BLOODSTOCK Festival this year smile emoticon Having written our previous records title track "We Are The Others" about Sophie Lancaster it will be an extra important and special occasion for us to headline the Sophie Lancaster stage and meet up with our friends at The Sophie Lancaster Foundation ("Stamp Out Prejudice, Hatred & Intolerance Everywhere!") again. We look forward to rocking out at Bloodstock Festival and hope to see many of you there!

Delain online: 

http://delainmusic.nl
http://facebook.com/delainmusic

Whorion confirm appearance at Nummirock 2015

Finnish death metallers Whorion have recently announced that they will be playing this year's Nummirock Festival in Finland. They'll be joining the likes of Arch Enemy, Amaranthe and many, many more.

Nummirock Festival 2015 will take place from 18th-20th June in Nummijärvi, Finland. Further information can be found at this location.

Whorion online:

http://whorion.com
http://facebook.com/whorion

Control The Storm premier new song: Hysteric Silence

Control The Storm, who are described as Bristol's finest "female-fronted" metal band, have recently premiered their new song Hysteric Silence which is available for streaming down below.

Since unveiling their new vocalist, Kate Norris last year, 2015 has began shaping up to be a good year for the Bristol-based quintet with a short UK tour in March and an appearance at the UK's first symphonic metal festival: Northern Symphony. Control The Storm's tour dates for March are as follow:

11th - The Hatchett Inn, Bristol
12th - Grand Central, Manchester
13th - Zephyr Lounge, Leamington Spa
14th - Metal Temple Festival, Brighton
15th - Level 3, Swindon

Control The Storm online:

http://controlthestorm.com
http://facebook.com/controlthestorm

Aonia announce first ever European show

British dual-soprano fronted septet Aonia have announced their first ever European show to take place later this year. The show will take place in Brussels, Belgium at Rock Classic. Aonia will be supporting French melodic metal band Alwaid whom they shared the stage with at Valkyrian Festival 2014. Further information about the show can be found here.

Aonia will also be appearing at this year's Dames of Darkness Festival on 9th May in Bilston, near Wolverhampton supporting Norwegian titans Sirenia. Further information about The Dames of Darkness Festival can be found at this location.

Aonia online:

http://aonia.co.uk 
http://facebook.com/aoniauk

Reign Of Sirius and Seventh Sin announced for Northern Symphony Festival

Dutch band Seventh Sin, who toured the UK last year with Edenbridge, have been announced to play the Steel Opera: Main Stage at the UK's first ever symphonic metal festival - Northern Symphony. British extreme metallers Reign Of Sirius have also been confirmed for the Infernal Orchestra Stage alongside the likes of Edenfall and Scandelion. The latter of which made their UK debut last November at the Valkyrian Festival.

And speaking of debuts, Northern Symphony will be the live debut of cyber metal duo Quietus - the new project from Cryptic Age members Jenny Green and Hallam Smith, The event will also be the festival debut of A Clockwork Opera.

Northern Symphony Festival will take place on 4th April 2015 at both The Venue and The Riverside in Selby. Billed so far for the event include the likes of Winter In Eden, Ravenage, Control the Storm, Scandelion, Divided We Fall and more. Tickets are priced at £10 and are available from http://northernwyntermusic.bigcartel.com.

Further information about the festival can be found at this location.