REVIEWS 2009

May - Jan 2009 Concert Reviews

REVIEWS 2008

Dec - Aug 2008 Concert Reviews

June - May 2008 Concert Reviews

April - January 2008 Concert Reviews

Past Concert Reviews...

May 23, 2009

K-ROCK Dysfunctional Family BBQ @ NYS Fairgrounds - Syracuse, NY

May 2009

SALIVA, BOY HITS CAR, POP EVIL, THE VEER UNION, MADINA LAKE, AN HOUR WITHIN

The Chevolet Court at the New York State fairgrounds hosted the third annual KRock/Roadrunner Turbo Dysfunctional Family Barbecue. This year’s show featured Saliva, Boy Hits Car, Pop Evil, The Veer Union, Madina Lake and An Hour Within.

an hour within First up, from Central NY was An Hour Within. They mix the 80’s alternative sound with modern Nu metal. AHW are scheduled to record a new EP this fall. Meanwhile, look for them on tour this summer around central/western NY.

Madina Lake Second to take the stage with their catchy pop-punk style, Chicago, IL’s Madina Lake. Their new album, “Attics To Eden” (Roadrunner Records) just hit stores on May 5th with a positive response. Their current single “Never Take Us Alive” continues to get request on the mainstream radio. This is a band the pop-punk scene needs to keep an eye out for. They will be spending this summer out on the Warped Tour.

The Veer Union Next, from Vancouver, Canada, The Veer Union brought their big, radio friendly sound to the stage. Their debut album “Against the Grain” is out on Universal Motown Records. (April 21, 2009). Their current single, "Seasons" is on regular rotation with mainstream rock stations and is the official theme song for WWE Backlash 2009. They will hit the road in June with Halestorm, Burn Halo & Since October.

Pop Evil Fourth on the bill was hard rockers, Pop Evil. The Grand Rapids, Michigan band is a mix between Nickelback and Theory Of A Deadman. They re-released their 2nd full length album “Lipstick on the Mirror” this month through Pazzo Music. Their current single "Somebody Like You" is starting to break ground, following in the footsteps of their hit “100 in 55.” They will be on tour with Within Reason in June and hit the road with Judas Priest and Whitesnake in July. Pop Evil

Boy Hits Car Southern California’s Boy Hits Car took the stage next. They are no stranger to this KRock crowd. They blew up the stage at the radio station’s annual KRockathon6 in 2001 and returned to play an unforgettable set at the KRockatho10 in 2005. Their current single is “Embrace (for it’s myself I need strength against)” which will be off their 4th studio album, yet to be titled, due out in late 2009. They will be playing this summer at the California Music Festival in Ventura CA, July 3rd. Check out the interview we did with vocalist, CRegg Rondell (coming soon). Boy Hits Car

Saliva
Closing the show, from Memphis TN was Multi-platinum hard-rockers, Saliva. They are out in support of their sixth studio album is “Cinco Diablo” on Island Records (December 16, 2008). Their current single "How Could You?" has taken over the airwaves. Look for them to kick off their full headlining tour in June. Check out the interview we did with vocalist, Josey Scott (coming soon). Saliva


Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:

For more information on Saliva check out www.saliva.com
— and also on: myspace or on Facebook

For more information on Boy Hits Car check out www.boyhitscar.com
— and also on: myspace or on Facebook

For more information on Pop Evil check: myspace and Facebook

For more information on The Veer Union check out
www.theveerunion.com
— and also on: myspace or Facebook

For more information on Madina Lake check out
www.madinalake.com
— and also on: myspace or Facebook

For more information on An Hour Within check out
www.anhourwithin.com
— and also on: myspace or Facebook

For more information on Krock check out www.krock.com


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


May 13, 2009

No Fear Energy Music Tour @ Washington Ave Armory - Albany, NY

May 2009

LAMB OF GOD, AS I LAY DYING, GOD FORBID, MUNICIPAL WASTE

lamb of godNo Fear Energy Music Tour shook the house. Literally! When the crowd started jumped up and down, and the mosh pits got going, the wooden floor at the Washington Ave Armory was literally bouncing (similar to how a balcony does in old theaters). The tour is winding down, with two more shows to go after Albany.

First up was Municipal Waste. From Richmond Virginia, MW is a thrash/ punk band with a partylamb of god god forbid your ass off attitude. They are looking to release their fourth album "Massive Aggressive" which is tentatively scheduled for release in Aug 2009 through Earache records.

Next up was New Jersey's own, God Forbid. The place exploded when they hit the stage with their metalcore/ thrasher style. They are out in support of their latest release "Earth's Blood" which hit stores Feb 24th 2009 In June, they head over to Europe and then return to North America for The Rockstar Mayhem Tour on July 10th. god forbid

as i lay dying From San Diego CA, As I Lay Dying was next to take the stage. As usual, their set was tight and very energetic. In April (2009), they released a DVD collection titled, "This Is Who We Are" (Metal Blade). It is a 3 dvd set, documenting 7 years with interviews and commentary, touring stories, concert footage, videos and more. Recently, As I Lay Dying premiered a video for "I Never Wanted" on Headbangers Ball that features footage from the DVD set. Vocalist, Tim Lambesis commented on how next time they are in Albany, they will have a new album out. as i lay dying

lamb of god Last to take the stage was Richmond VA's Lamb Of God. They have stepped up their game since the last time we saw them. Currently, they are on tour in support of their seventh studio release, "Wrath" (Feb 2009). They will head to Europe in June/July where they will be playing at several festival shows.

Note: Children of Bodom was originally on the bill, but dropped off the tour due to a guitarist/vocalist Alexi Laiho broke his shoulder and has internal bleeding. lamb of god


Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:

For more information on Municipal Waste check out www.facethewaste.com
— and also on: myspace or on Facebook

For more information on God Forbid check out www.godforbid1.com
— and also on: myspace or on Facebook

For more information on As I Lay Dying check out www.asilaydying.com
— and also on: myspace and Facebook

For more information on Lamb Of God check out
www.lamb-of-god.com
— and also on: myspace or Facebook


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


May 12, 2009

Queensryche @ Turning Stone Casino - Vernon, NY

May 2009

queensryche These guys still rock and sound just like they did in the 80's!! Geoff Tate's vocals are as powerful and strong as ever with all its dynamic tones. The guitar solos were fantastic. The entire set was tight and the mix was perfect.

You can tell that they were playing from their heart, doing what they really truly love to do. It's refreshing because I have been to so many concerts where the bands are on stage, just going through the motions. Queensryche really was having fun with their set and truly loved putting on the show. Their attitude carried over to the crowd. queensryche

They were joined on stage with guest appearances, including Geoff Tate's daughter, Emily, doing vocals. She definitely queensryche takes after her dad with a strong set of pipes. She is featured on their latest album, "American Soldier" doing a duet with her father on "Home Again." "American Soldier" is the bands 10th studio album, a concept piece based on the American soldiers from the front lines of wars from WWII to the present. It's a close subject to Tate, seeing how his father was a soldier and he grew up in a military home.

queensryche Queensryche will continue to tour North America until June 6, head over to Europe for a month and will return to North America for a few more dates in NY, NH, MA and Canada.


Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information on Queensryche check out www.queensryche.com
— and also on: myspace or on Facebook


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


May 8, 2009

Dragonforce, Cynic, Daath @ Northern Lights - Clifton Park, NY

May 2009

Daath Daath, Cynic and Dragonforce performed at Northern Lights Nightclub in Clifton Park, NY.

Atlanta GA’s, Daath was first to take the stage. Out in support of their 3rd studio album, "The Concealers" Daath takes their death metal to the stage and gets the crowd moving. On this tour, guitarist, Emil Werstler is giving private guitar lessons; he has been teaching guitar for years, and is offering them while on the road. Look for Daath this summer on a Daath Cynic North America tour with Goatwhore. Check out the interview with did with Guitarist Eyal Levi. (Coming soon)

Next up was the reunited Cynic. Infusing Jazz and Prog metal, Cynic released their 2nd album, “Traced In Air” Nov 2008 on the French Label, Seasons Of Mist. The Miami, Fl natives first hit the scene with their 1993 release, “Focus.” Cynic will be going on Cynictour this summer in Europe with Dream Theater.

Last to take the stage was British power metal band Dragonforce. They are out on a world wide tour in support Dragonforce of their fourth studio album, “Ultimate Beatdown.” Their shows are known for their fun care free attitudes and the shredding guitar solos; including fantasy influenced lyrics and electronic sounds to boot. Dragonforce wind down this leg of the tour May 11th in West Springfield, VA. The tour was suppose to carry over to Latin America, but has been postponed due to the Swing Flu outbreak. The tour will resume in Europe on May 29th in Germany.

Check out the interview with did with Guitarist Herman Li. (Coming soon) Dragonforce


Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


Watch the Interview we did with Herman of Dragonforce and Eyal of Daath.


For more information on Daath check out www.daathmusic.com
— and also on: myspace or on Facebook

For more information on Cynic check out www.cyniconline.com
— and also on: myspace and Facebook

For more information on Dragonforce check out www.dragonforce.com
— and also on: myspace or Facebook


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


April 27, 2009

MUSIC AS A WEAPON IV Tour @ Glens Falls Civic Center
Disturbed, Killswitch Engaged, Lacona Coil and more

April 2009

Music As A Weapon Created by Disturbed, Music As A Weapon IV tour pitched tents and invaded the Glens Falls Civic Center in Glens Falls, NY. This year's festival was packed with great live music from Disturbed, Disturbed Killswitch Engage, Chimaira, Lacuna Coil, Suicide Silence, Spineshank, Bury Your Dead and more. This time around, the festival was more than just the music, but the focused on the whole metal music lifestyle with talented tattoos artist, including the world-famous Oliver Peck ( Miami Ink and Bam's Unholy Union) and Hart & Huntington Tattoo Company (founded by freestyle motocross legend Carey Hart), an extreme sports complex, a gaming zone and technology center (Samsung Mobil) and a Vendor Village that included metal style clothing and jewelry.

The tour will continue across the US and wind down, May 16 in Disturbed's hometown of Chicago, IL. Music As A Weapon

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:

For more information check out:
Music As A Weapon IV: www.musicasaweapon4.com
— and also on: myspace
Disturbed: www.disturbed1.com
— and also on: myspace or facebook
Killswitch Engage: www.killswitchengage.com
— and also on: myspace or facebook
Chimaira: www.chimaira.com
— and also on: myspace or facebook
Lacuna Coil: www.lacunacoil.it
— and also on: myspace or facebook
Suicide Silence: www.suicidesilence.net
— and also on: myspace
Spineshank:
— and also on: myspace or facebook
Bury Your Dead:
— and also on: myspace or facebook
Oliver Peck: www.oliverpeck.com
— and also on: myspace
Hart and Huntington: www.hartandhuntingtontattoo.com
— and also on: myspace or facebook


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


April 24, 2009

Framing Hanley @ Rides Nightclub - Herkimer, NY

April 2009

framing hanley Nixon - Framing Hanley While they are out on tour, their rockin' verson of Lil Wayne's song, "Lolipop" is holding strong on modern rock stations. This song has opened the door, but Framing Hanley definitely has more to offer than just a cover tune. Imagine 30 Seconds To Mars meets Breaking Benjamin and Daughtry. Live, they have a lot of energy and great crowd interaction, as they played tracks from their debut album, "The Moment"(Silent Majority Group). The album was re-release back in Nov 2008, with "Lolipop" because the original version did not have it. This Nashville TN band is still fairly young; it will be interesting to watch them mature and develop their sound. Framing Hanley

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


Watch the Interview we did with FH's Vocalist, Nixon


For more information on Framing Hanley check out myspace.com/framinghanley or on Facebook


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


April 19, 2009

Hinder, Theory Of A Deadman, Black Stone Cherry, The Veer Union @ Northern Lights - Clifton Park, NY

April 2009

First up was The Veer Union. This Canadian band released their debut album, "AGAINST THE GRAIN" on April 21st Some may know their song, “Seasons,” it is the official theme song for the WWE Backlash 2009. Look for them out on the road with Hinder until mid-May and selected Radio shows, including Central NY’s K-Rock’s Dysfunctional BBQ in Syracuse NY on May 23rd. the veer union

Next up from Kentucky with a southern rock style was Black Stone Cherry.Black Stone Cherry They are currently out in support of their second album, “Folklore and Superstition” on Roadrunner Records. Live, they have a lot of energy and rock-n- roll look and sound. Guitarist, Ben Wells, reminds me of a very young Zakk Wylde. Drummer, John Fred Young is compared a lot to Tommy Aldridge (Ozzy Osbourne, Whitesnake) to which I would have to agree. He was fun to watch behind his kit. They will continue on tour with Hinder until mid May, where they will head over to Europe until July. Black Stone Cherry

From Vancouver, Theory of a Deadman was next to take the stage. They are currently out on tour Theory Of A Deadman in support of their third studio album, “Scars and Souvenirs” on Roadrunner Records. Maybe it was just the energy or the vibe, but live their sound was even more solid. With songs on various video games (American Chopper, NASCAR 09), wrestling compilations (WWE Wreckless Intent and TNA Wrestling 2008 in review), movie soundtracks (Spider-Man) and TV shows (Smallville) and used in commercials for the 2008 US Olympic Trials, Theory of A Deadman is embedded into American pop culture! Catch them this summer on the Crue Fest 2, with Motley Crue, Godsmack, Drowning Pool and Charm City Devils. Theory Of A Deadman

Last to take the stage from Oklahoma was Hinder. They are currently out on tourHinder in support of their second studio album, “Take It To the Limit” (Universal Motown Records Group). Their song "Lips of an Angel" released in 2006 really put Hinder in the limelight and on the charts. Since then, they have produced several hits, which filled their set list. Vocalist, Austin Winkler is extremely animated on stage with a strong presence; if Josh Todd (Buckcherry) has a younger brother you would swear he was Austin. As Hinder continues to move up the charts with their current single “Up all Night,” look for them this summer as they hit the road with Nickelback, Papa Roach and Saving Abel. Hinder


Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information check out:
The Veer Union: theveerunion.com
— and also on: myspace or facebook
Black Stone Cherry: blackstonecherry.com
— and also on: myspace or facebook
Theory Of A Deadman:theoryofadeadman.com
— and also on: myspace or facebook
Hinder:hindermusic.com
— and also on: myspace or facebook


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


April 3, 2009

Black Label Society, Sevendust, Dope, The Infinite Staircase @ Main St Armory - Rochester, NY

April 2009

Kicking off the night was The Infinite Staircase which got the crowd into gear with their heavier tracks on their debut album, entitled "The Road Less Taken." They are a young bunch of hard working musicians with a promising future. Their debut album The Infinite Staircase was released digitally last month and can be purchased from their website, or you can pick Dope up a physical copy at the shows. Check out the interview we did with Lenny, Jeff and Paris.

Next up was Dope. It's been several years since I've seen them, and they have undergone a few line-up changes. They came out rocking in true Dope fashion surpassing my expectations. Their sound reminds me of early Marilyn Manson, "Portrait of an American Family" days, yet branching off to do their Dope Dope
own thing. Dope has released their fifth studio album in March 2009 entitled, "No Regrets." They closed out the set with their latest single, "6-6-Sick" which features Zakk Wylde. Look for Dope out on the road with BLS until May; then they will be kicking off a headlining tour with Soil.

Sevendust was next to take the stage. They came out high-powered Sevendust Sevendust
and took command of the crowd. They are solid and tight, full of passion and rage. They are out in support of their 7th studio album, "Hope And Sorrow". Check out the interview we did with drummer Morgan Rose when they were out with Disturbed. Sevendust will continue on with the BLS tour until May and have a few headlining dates scheduled after. Sevendust

Zakk Wylde - BLS Then, for the headliner of the night, Black Label Society. They had the curtain drawn infront of stage, with Sirens going off to the side as the crowd's anticipation grows. Their set went off seamlessly and without a hitch. From the guitar solos, to the goat hands in the air, it was exactly what you would expect from this band. Look for a new BLS album which is slated for late 2009. Meanwhile, you can pick up their Greatest Hits Black Label Society Zakk Wylde - BLS Package, "Skullage" that was recently released in 3 different formats: just the CD alone, just the DVD alone, or the "Skullage" DVD/CD combo. Black Label with continue on until May 2nd. Also look for BLS's bassist, John JD DeServio with his other band, Cycle Of Pain to open the show, starting April 21st.


Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


Watch the Interview we did with The Infinite Staircase


For more information check out:
The Infinite Staircase:theinfinitestaircase.com or myspace.com/theinfinitestaircase
Dope: dopearmy.com or myspace.com/dope
Sevendust: sevendust.com
— and also on: myspace or facebook
Black Label Society: www.blacklabelsociety.net
— and also on: myspace or facebook


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


March 20, 2009

Buckcherry, Avenged Sevenfold, Papa Roach and Burn Halo @ Utica Auditorium - Utica, NY

March 2009

Buckcherry, Avenged Sevenfold, Papa Roach and Burn Halo played to a sold-out crowd at the Utica Memorial Auditorium in Utica NY.

Burn Halo Ex-18 Visions vocalist, James Hart’s new band, Burn Halo kicked off the show with their straight forward, rock-n-roll sound that has that mid ‘80’s kickback vibe. They have a great stage presents and had a solid sound!! There is no doubt these guys Rock!! Their debut album comes out March 31st on Rawkhead Rekords. Check out their latest video for “Dirty Little Girl”from their website link below. It’s a pretty good taste of what’s to come. Also, check out the interview we did with James. Burn Halo will continue on this tour until they hop onto the SnoCore tour with Static X, Saliva and The Flood April 1st in Albuquerque, NM. The tour ends May 9 in Sparks, NV. Burn Halo

Papa Roach took the stage next with a surplus of excitable energy to raise the already enthusiastic crowd. There is no Papa Roach denying that singer, Jacoby Shaddix is one of the stronger frontmen within this music scene. You could not even like the band, yet be entertained by his high-strung energetic style. He is constantly moving around the stage, grabbing attention of all in attendance as he even comes out into the crowd. The band was solid, as they performed all the favorites from “Hollywood Whore” to “Last Resort” from “Scars” to "Broken Home" from "Getting Away with Murder" to their latest release “Lifeline” You could say their set was all hits!! Look for their sixth studio album, “Metamorphosis” hits stores March 24th. Papa Roach Papa Roach will be heading to Europe in April for their headlining tour, with Filter and In This Moment. And Avenged Sevenfold as rumor has it that they will be headlining a North American tour this fall, so keep an eye out.

Avenged Sevenfold was up next. They kept this high-strung crowd going full steam ahead. They kicked the stage set up a notch with traditional fog machines to add to the atmosphere. From the start, they had a tight sound with amazing energy, great guitar work with an excellent stage presents that is very animated! This all leads to superb crowd interaction and just a lot of fun. Again, playing hits after hit from “Scream” to “Afterlife,” “Almost Easy” to "Bat Country" to just name a small Avenged Sevenfold Buckcherry handful. Look for Avenged Sevenfold to continue on the road with Buckcherry until April 18 (Las Vegas, NV) and hit Rock on the Range.

Down to the nitty gritty, as Buckcherry took the stage. With stong rock roots, they posses a different kind of energy from the other bands on the bill. They have a sleezy rock sound mixed with a punk attitude; imagine AC/DC meets the Sex Pistols. If you put Mick Jagar, Iggy Pop, and Johnny Rotten in a blender, you would have vocalist Josh Todd. His stage presents is like his tattoo, he’s full of “chaos” and you Buckcherry Buckcherry can tell that he has a strong love for the music. Buckcherry’s stage set had big screen behind them, playing different images, from Anime Porn to footage of past Buckcherry shows.

You can see Buckcherry on the big screen as “CRÜE FEST 2008” will have a special HD screening coming to theaters.

Buckcherry will continue touring across North America until June 26, so keep an eye out for them to come through your town.

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


Watch the Interview we did with Jame Hart - Burn Halo


For more information check out:
Burn Halo: myspace.com/burnhalo
Papa Roach: paparoach.com or myspace.com/paparoach
Avenged Sevenfold: avengedsevenfold.com or myspace.com/avengedsevenfold
Buckcherry: buckcherry.com or myspace.com/buckcherry


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


March 7, 2009

Black Water Rising @ Half Penny Pub - Syracuse NY

March 2009

black water risingIt was a good ol' night of rock n roll as Black Water Rising played at the Half Penny Pub in Syracuse, NY. It’s no wonder there is a buzz about this band which is spreading like a wild fire. With Sirus Satellite Radio’s Octane channel picking “Brother Go On” it wasn’t long before it became the #2 most phone requested song, and after 40 weeks, it’s still going strong. They have a sound that reminds you of the southern roots of Black Label Society meets the full rich sound of say modern rock band, Hurt.

black water risingBlack Water Rising was formed by ex-Dust To Dust frontman, Rob Traynor. He hooked up with former Boiler Room’s drummer, Mike Meselsohn and ex-Steromud’s guitarist Johnny Fattoruso. They found Oddie McLaughlin to complete the circle of BWR

Check out the interview we did with the band. Keep an eye out for their debut album that is being released April 7, 2009.

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information check out:
Black Water Rising: blackwaterrising.net or myspace.com/blackwaterrising


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


March 3, 2009

Mudvayne, Nonpoint, In This Moment @ Webster Theatre - Hartford CT

March 2009

We caught up with Mudvayne out on their second leg tour to support the latest album, “The New Game” which hit stores in Nov 2008. This time out, they brought old-time touring mates Nonpoint; who toured with them off and on since the LD 50 days and the upcoming, female fronted band, In This Moment.

In This Moment From California, In This Moment was first to hit the stage. Even with a few technical difficulties at the very beginning, the band pulled off an amazing set. It was fun to watch those in the crowd who were unfamiliar with this band; vocalist Maria Brink comes out in this cute dress, dancing, singing her clean vocals so sweet and innocent… till she screams. Let’s just say… Price of ticket to the show…$27. Price for the tank of gas to get there $48….Dinner, $18…The first impression of those people of Maria’s screams, PRICELESS!! This band definitely knows how to rock. Watch for

In This Moment
them to come through your town, as this summer they will be out on the Warp tour. Check out the interview we did with Maria and Chris.

nonpoint Up Next, Florida’s Nonpoint. Man do these guys pack a punch with a burst of energy that gets the crowd jumping from the first riff. They could even take the Phil Collin’s song, “In The Air Tonight” pull it off in such a way that it worked at a metal show, much kudos to them. Visually, the first thing you notice from soundcheck, the drum kit is set up sideways? This allows for all the members to interact with the crowd!!! It seemed to keep the energy circling on the stage and sent back out to the crowd. Out in support of their fifth studio album, “Vengeance” keep an eye out for what will come next. nonpoint

Mudvayne Headlining the nights show, originally from Illinois, Mudvayne. This was the second time we caught them touring for the new album, “The New Game”. They have kicked up those new songs a few notches and not to mention adding even more emotions to their older songs as well. Most notably that night, “Nothing To Gein” off their “LD 50” (2000) album. I can honestly say, I have seen this band perform this song so many times I have lost count, but I have never seen it performed quite like this. Mudvayne

Mudvayne Overall it was a great show, absolutely worth the price of admission. The crowd at the venue was a little odd, seeing how the security guys were in the mosh pits, keeping the crowd at bay. Apparently, there is no moshing, crowd surfing, stage diving or any of that sort allowed in this venue. Isn’t that half the fun for the kids? However, the rules didn’t discourage the crowd’s energy and excitement. The tour continues to the end of March.

Watch the Interview we did with Maria and Chris of In This Moment

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information check out:
In This Moment: myspace.com/inthismonent
NonPoint: myspace.com/nonpoint
Mudvayne: mudvayne.com or myspace.com/mudvayne


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


Feb 27, 2009

Disturbed, Sevendust, Skindred @ Utica Aud - Utica, NY

Feb 2009

Disturbed, Sevendust and Skindred played to the sold-out crowd at the Utica Memorial Auditorium in Utica, NY.

skindredSkindred kicked off the night as they brought on The Roots, Rock, Riot!!! The British band’s sound is a fusion of metal and punk with reggae and even a little pop creating a new evolution and style to the metal scene. It’s a unique mixture of sounds they have put together and have done so in a very impressive manner. Live, their energy takes it to the next level; they had the crowd jumping from the get go. Keep an eye out for this band, their metal fusion is a distinctive experience!! skindred

Next up, Sevendust who is out in support of their 7th studio album, “Hope And Sorrow”. They pack a punch with a sevendusthigh-powered forceful drive. I have seen this band several times over the years, and I have to say, I am always impressed on how tight this band is. They have a colossus stage presence that even if you weren’t a fan, I don’t think you could not be allured by their performance. Look for Sevendust out on tour with Zakk Wylde’s Black Label Society mid March. Sevendust

Disturbed Headlining the night was Disturbed. The lights kicked down, the curtain dropped, and the madness continues as vocalist David Draiman was wheeled out on a stretcher board, wearing a straightjacked and a mask in a Hannibal Lector type fashion. The rest of the band joined Draiman on stage and immediately they had the pumped up crowd magnetized. With a strong, solid, full sound,Disturbed they gave a flawless performance; cranking out their key songs like “Stupified,” “Land of Confusion,” Disturbed”Down with The Sickness” and “Industructable” to name just a small handful. Still out in support of their latest album, “Industructible,” look for Disturbed to kick off their “Music as a Weapon Tour” mid March when they will be headlining and sharing the stage with Killswitch Engage, Chimaira, Lacuna Coil and many others.

Be sure to check out the interviews we did will Skindred, Sevendust and Disturbed. (coming soon)

Watch the Interviews we did with Dan of Disturbed, Morgan of Sevendust and Benji of Skindred

Check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information check out:
Skindred: skindred.com or myspace.com/skindred
Sevendust: sevendust.com or myspace.com/sevendust
Disturbed: disturbed1.com or myspace.com/disturbed


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


Feb 20, 2009

Aaron Lewis of Staind - Solo Tour @ Turning Stone - Verona, NY

Feb 2009

Aaron Lewis Staind frontman Aaron Lewis is currently out on his annual post-holiday solo acoustic tour, which kicked off Jan 2nd in Henderson, Nevada. This tour took a break mid January as Staind did a short European run. Aaron continued on his solo-acoustic tour mid February and ends Feb 28th in Uncasville, CT. We caught Aaron’s acoustic show the first of two sold-out nights at the Turning Stone Casino in Vernon NY.

Aaron Lewis’s solo tour is a must see for all Staind fans. It’s definitely a different pace than a normal Staind show, sorry no mosh pits and it is comparing apples to oranges, but to hear the songs broke down to there acoustical form was a pleasure. The show is full of laughs and was very relaxing. Aaron hits the stage without a set list, playing the Aaron Lewis songs that hit him in the moment. This encourages the crowd to shout out the songs they would like to hear, creating great crowd participation, which leads to a more intimate show. As most of the crowd called out Staind songs, some called out odd request like “Freebird” and “Piano Man”??? I couldn’t tell at first if those people were just heckling Aaron, yelling covers he has played in the past or if it was that they just felt Aaron Lewis left out and started yelling out whatever popped in their heads. Could it be a little of all three? Heckles were dished out regarding Aaron’s Boston Red Sox baseball cap from the NY Yankee crowd, but he gave it back in a “friends breaking chops” fashion before continuing on with the songs.

Following this current solo run Staind will hit the road on April 10th in Tampa FL. In spring of 2009, Aaron plans to start recording his first solo album.


For more information, included the remaining Aaron Lewis solo dates and upcoming Staind tour, check out:
Aaron Lewis: myspace.com/aaronlewismusic
Staind: staind.com or myspace.com/staind


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


Jan 29, 2009

Metallica @ Nassau Coliseum - Uniondale, NY

Jan 2009 - Photo by: Anton Corbijn

Metallica kicked off their world tour on Oct 21st in Glendale, AZ in support of their new album, “Death Magnetic.” We caught their show on January 29, when “The World Magnetic Tour” rolled into the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, NY with The Sword and Machine Head opening the show.metallica

With 10 studio albums under their belt and over 27 years to draw from, Metallica created a set list that incorporated a mass spectrum reflecting their entire career. Not only did they play songs off the new album, but they went back to “Kill’Em All,” (1983) and continued through to their self titled “Metallica” (1991) album. Die hard fans got their Metallica Fix as they played their heavy metal anthems, “Creeping Death” “Damage, Inc” “One” and ”Seek and Destroy” to name a few.

Visually, they matched the sound with an impressive production; from the Pink Floyd-ish Laser Light show, to the classic pyros illuminating the stage, down to the huge coffins which moved when the new songs were played and even having the drums center stage, rotating after each song.

Since 1982 Metallica have been pioneers in the metal scene push the art of extreme music to a new level. Clearly, Metallica have made there place in music history as a band that has stood the test of time. After 27 years they are still ripping up the stage with there unique form of metal which has evolved and matured but kept true to the essence of Metallica.

They will release “The Complete Metallica” digital box set via iTunes on March 31st, and available to other digital service providers on April 28th. The “box set” will include their entire official discography.


For more information, visit:
Metallica: metallica.com or myspace.com/metallica


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger :: Mike Sansoucy


Dec 12, 2008

Mudvayne, 10 Years and Snot @ The Electric Factory - Philly, PA

Dec 2008

snot Kicking off the night was the "re-united" Snot, with Tommy “Vext Cummings (ex-Divine Heresy) now on vocals. It was great to see this metal punk band back together, playing the old songs live again. Their sets was in true Snot fashion, with their crazed energetic stage antics, including splitting the room in two, just to have each side charge each other, creating one massive pit. Through out the madness, they never missed a beat and delivered a set that I’m sure made Lynn Strait (former singer- RIP) proud. snot

Next up was Knoxville, TN, alt-metal act, 10 Years. With a more radio friendly sound, their set put a different twist on the evening with a 10yearsmore hard rock vibe. They are currently out on tour in support of their latest release, “Division” out on Universal Republic Records. Their live set provided a strong melodic sound which was packed full of emotions felt throughout the club. According to the band's Myspace blog, they have started to gathering new song ideas for their next album, but stated that they would not be starting the recording process for a while yet. They do insist that the new material would be their heaviest to date. 10years

The crowd's anticipation was at it's peek as the lights went out and the spotlight was on the main attraction as Mudvayne was about to take the stage... While it has been nearly 3 years between tours, Mudvayne is back, roaring from the get go, mudvaynepicking up as if they were never really gone for very long. Musicially, they were solid, as they were armed with an impressive and energetic sound that lives up to what they are noted for. Visually, vocalist Chad Gray stood out as the beacon as he took the stage in the bright red fur suit from the "Do What You Do" video (first single off the newest album, "New Game"). Guitarist Greg Tribbett also took a twist on a clock-work orange type face paint. Later on, Gray changed into the old LD50 overhalls, bringing it back to the early Mud days of "Dig" and "-1." mudvayne Over all, the band seemed tight and together more than ever as one solid unit. If you missed this first tour outing of Mudvayne, look for them in early 2009, as they will team up with NONPOINT and IN THIS MOMENT.

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information, visit:
Mudvayne: mudvayne.com or myspace.com/mudvayne
10 Years: 10yearsmusic.com or myspace.com/10years
Snot: snottheband.com/ or myspace.com/snot


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


Nov 17, 2008

Murder by Death, William Elliott Whitmore, J. Roddy Walston and The Business @ The Mohawk Place - Buffalo, NY

Nov 2008

With the threat of the first snow storm of the season and a huge competition from a rare Buffalo Bills Monday night game held 20 miles south, I had my doubts as to whether or not there was going to be a good turn out for the show. When the openers J. Roddy Walston and The Business took the stage, the crowd was sparse. However, by the time Baltimore, MD's "The Business" had put on their rock show the place began to fill in. With brooding guitar solo's by Steve on guitar, the epic showmanship of J-Roddy on the guitar but especially the Piano, and the stage antics of Zach Westphal on the bass there is a refreshed affinity for Rock and roll again. The lineup was rounded out with drummer Steve Colmus keeping the beat as they ripped through a rocking set in support of their latest release "Hail Megaboy."

MBD The night continued as the one-man act William Elliot Whitmore took the stage. With his dark, dreary, almost droning melodic voice he put together a set I never could have known could be accomplished with just an acoustic guitar or banjo. Mr. Whitmore's dark and some times morbid lyrics were just a tease of what was to come for the rest of the night. He went on to talk about his last time in Buffalo when he and Murder by Death had played the very same Venue. Adam Turla from Murder by Death went on to elaborate much further about that infamous night in their set The crowd grew close to the very intimate set as if a spell was placed on them by the stories WEW was conveying onto them with his voice. He concluded the set with a new song that will be appearing on his release "Animals in the Dark" which will be released on Feb. 17th of next year.

Now the time was near, and the place is packed I felt so good knowing that Western New York had shown their support for these great artists. It was good to observe the musicians walking around and mingling with the crowd. WEW and MBD bass player Matt Armstrong reminisced with a female friend near the merchandise table about that last time in Buffalo. At that same point I noticed that "The Business" was offering a free CD and t-shirt to anyone that would put them up for tonight. It made me appreciate the bands that play music for the love of it and not to make money. Those bands that appreciate their fans not expect them to throw money at them.

MBD After a brief issue with Adam from MBD being shocked by the microphone. MBD began their set as Mr. Turla grab his guitar and announced it was "going to be an electrifying performance by Murder by Death," in reference to the microphone shocking him on every syllable. The opening song "52 Ford" a song that seemed to spotlight the electric cello talents of Sarah Balliet. Next up was the song "Sometimes the Line Walks You" off of their release: "In Bocca El Lupo." An album referenced by Turla as a concept album based on "a basic ideas in, 'in the Dante/Divine comedy sense'and doing 12 songs that are very unique and about different people." After a little interaction with the crowd; including the gift of a sock to cover the shock of the microphone to which Adam decided that he kind of preferred the shock MBD went right into "Ball and Chain" with featured more Cello extravagance. It was very evident how the References to Nick Cave and Johnny Cash are construed about Turla's voice and singing structure. This was followed by another song off their newest release: "Red Of Tooth And Claw" entitled "Rumbrave" which was followed by "A Masters in Reverse Psychology" their first trip back to their sophomore release "Who Will Survive, And What Will Be Left Of Them?"

MBDThe band took a short break and Adam decided to tell a story about their experience last the night before since they had a hotel and were able to drink. They decided to play a drinking game called the wizard's staff. You can look that up for yourself but it was professed that drummer Dagan Thogerson eventually won the game. Then friends they met the last time they played at The Mohawk Place proceeded to hand out shots to the whole band triggering another story that ended with an oven following on William Elliot Whitmore's head. Thank god he was able to survive that episode to entertain us this evening. The second part of the set included their lead single "Fuego!," "Steal Away" and a cover of WEW's "One Man's Shame." The latter being available as one side of a split seven-inch split with Whitmore's interpretation of MBD's "Dynamite Mine." This section of the set was concluded with a very energetic rendition of "Ash"

MBDStory and shot time again; This time about how they left Sarah's electric Cello at The Mohawk Place the last time they played and their tour manager had to drive back to get while Sarah was left to only play piano that night in Cleveland. It would be hard to imagine a show with out the mystique of how she plays the Cello and is able to swap right to the piano without missing a note. This portion of the set included "Brother," the Piratesque "Dead Men and Sinners" and "Organ Grinder." Followed by "The Big Sleep" which is an epic tale of a criminal who is sentenced to leave his family for the electric chair but not without "shoebox full of money of which (he) never earned a dime." The set concluded with "Until Morale improves The Beatings Will Continue," a song that Whitmore contributed guest vocals to on the studio cut, and was closed out with "Comin' Home"

That was not the end of the night though as the crowd would not let the band leave the stage. Turla proclaimed "this would be the time we would go back stage and have a beer and relax and play a couple more songs, but unfortunately there is no place for us to go. The Drummer, Dagan, quickly persuaded Adam to play "Shiola" by himself while the rest of the band snuck away from the stage. They then returned and took a request for one last song. But the crowd turned that into two. The first would be their only visit to their first album: "Like The Exorcist But More Breakdancing" entitled "I'm Afraid of Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolfe" and the evening was closed out with "Spring Break 1899." What an enthralling set it turned out to be Worth Every Minute and I cant wait until they come to town again!


For more information, visit:
Murder by Death: murderbydeath.com or myspace.com/murderbydeath
William Elliott Whitmore: williamelliottwhitmore.com or myspace.com/williamewhitmore
J. Roddy Walston and The Business: jroddy.net or myspace.com/jroddy


Permanent Link  Posted by Scott Boccaccio :: Nadine Swiger


Oct 20, 2008

FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH @ Northern Lights - Clifton Park NY

Oct 2008

It was a packed house when Five Finger Death Punch pulled into Clifton Park on Monday, October 20th. The crowd size and support was not surprise, as FFDP had ripped up the stage this past summer, drawing huge crowds to the second stage of the Rockstar Energy Mayhem tour. Live, they set the mood which gets the fist in the air and the crowd chanting, even before the band takes the stage.

FFDP kicked off their headlining club tour September 29 with In This Moment, Bury Your Dead and Another Black Day. In support of their debut album, "The Way of the Fist," the tour will continue across North America and will wraps up December 4 at the House of Blues in San Diego, CA.

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information, visit:
Five Finger Death Punch: fivefingerdeathpunch.com or myspace.com/ffdp


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


Oct 1, 2008

KATAKLYSM, DYING FETUS, ELUVEITIE and KEEP OF KASELIEN - Worcester MA

Oct 2008

It was a diverse night of metal as we caught the Death By Decibels tour, featuring Keep of Kalessin, Eluveitie, Dying Fetus and Kataklysm at the Palladium in Worcester MA.

Keep of Kalessin kicked off the show with their Symphonic Black Metal style. Out in support of their latest album, "Kolossus" on Nuclear Blast Records, KOK has a good Emperor style of metal, with lyrics in the fantasy theme based on the American writer U. Le Guin, "The Earthsea Quartet" books.

Eluvietie is a 7-piece folk/pagan metal band from Switzerland which take their roots from ancient Celtic traditions. Which makes this band stand out as truly unique. How many metal bands do you see with a Hurdy Gurdy player, who headbangs none the less?? This is defineitly one band that has grabbed the attention of the US metal scene. Out in support of their latest album, Slavia, look for them to continue their tour over sees, where at the end of the year, they look to start a new acoustic album, bringing in new instruments to the mix. Be sure to catch our interview for more info.

Dying Fetus was up next. American Death Metal at it's finest. With a punishing set of brutal death metal which only Dying Fetus can deliever look for them out on tour in support of "War of Attrition" on Relapse Records.

Headlining the night was Montreal's Kataklysm. As they head out on the road In support of their new album, "Prevail" on Nuclear Blast Records, this is the first headlining tour for Kataklysm in 4 Years. Kataklysm is noted for their brutal, melodic, technical and progessive elements they bring to their Death Metal Style. Check out the inteview that we did with Jean-Francois Dagenais (guitarist) before the show.

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information, visit:
Kataklysm: kataklysmrocks.com or myspace.com/kataklysm
Dying Fetus: dyingfetus.com or myspace.com/dyingfetus
Eluveitie: eluveitie.ch or myspace.com/eluveitie
Keep Of Kalessin: keepofkalessin.no or myspace.com/keepofkalessin


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


Sept 1, 2008

FLYLEAF @ NYS Fair - Syracuse NY

Sept 2008

Closing out the celebration of The New York State Fair, which is the oldest and third largest state fair in the USA, Flyleaf played a free show in the Chevrolet Court. While on stage back in Texas, their hometown was being pounded by Hurricane Gustav. Vocalist, Lacey Mosley lead the crowd to send heart-felt thoughts out to their family, friends, and neighbors who were going through a hard time.

While fans eagerly wait for a new album, Flyleaf’s self titled debut albums continues to rip up the radio airwaves. Flyleaf will be one of many artists on the “Nightmare Revisited” compilation CD collection which hits stores September 30th. The album is unique and new recordings of the cult classic “The Nightmare Before Christmas” movie soundtrack. Flyleaf rerecorded “What’s This?” For more information and sound samples visit: http://disneymusic.disney.go.com

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information, visit:
Flyleaf: flyleafmusic.com or myspace.com/flyleaf


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


August 29, 2008

MOTLEY CRUE, BUCKCHERRY & PAPA ROACH @ SPAC - Saratoga Springs NY

June 2008

CRUE FEST
featuring Motley Crue, Buckcherry, Papa Roach, Sixx Am and Trapt.

Motley Crue closed out the summer rock concert series at Saratoga Performing Art Center in Saratoga Springs NY on August 29 as they headlined the Crue Festival. Others on the bill: Buckcherry, Papa Roach, Sixx Am and Trapt.

It was a “metal” family night out, as it was generations after generations were at the show, enjoying over 3 decades of Motley Crue. To true Crue form, their stage was illumitated with a light show and pyros to boot. Overall it was good time of American Rock . Motley Crue release their ninth studio album, "Saints of Los Angeles" in June 2008; this album was recorded with the band's original lineup. With 2 days left of The Crue fest (both in PA), Motley Crue will head back out in October. Crüe fans should be on the look out for the release of their movie, "The Dirt" in 2009, which is based on the book written by Motley Crue and Neil Strauss. Rumor has it that Christopher Walken has been cast as Ozzy Osbourne and Val Kilmer as David Lee Roth.

Buckchery is currently on tour in support of their latest album "Black Butterfly" album on Eleven-Seven Music/Altlantic Records. This fall, you can catch them on the road with Avenged Sevenfold, Shinedown and Saving Abel as the tour will be kicking off on September 19th in Nobelsville, IN and will continue across North America into October.

Papa Roach is looking to relase a new album entitled, "Metamorphosis" Spring 2009 (originally was Fall 2008). You can catch them this fall out on the road with Staind and Seether, starting October 4th in Maryland.

Sixx Am is Nikki Sixx (Motley Crue)’s other band. They are currently out in support of "The Heroin Diaries" album on Eleven/Seven Music.

Trapt is currently on tour in support of their summer release "Only Through the Pain" on Eleven Seven Music. They will hit the road in September on a club headlining tour.

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information, visit:
Motley Crue: motley.com or myspace.com/motleycrue
Buckcherry: buckcherry.com or myspace.com/buckcherry
Papa Roach: paparoach.com or myspace.com/paparoach
Sixx Am: SixxAMmusic.com or myspace.com/sixxam
Trapt: trapt.com or myspace.com/trapt


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


June 15, 2008

HANZEL und GRETYL & LIVING DEAD @ Penny Arcade - Rochester NY

June 2008

DÖPPEL ÜBER DEATH TOUR!
Featuring HANZEL UND GRETYL and LIVING DEAD

Living Dead reminds me of a young version of NIN meets Gravity Kills meets Orgy and the early days of Marilyn Manson to name a few. Standing for individuality, freedom, and motivating society to think for themselves, the Living Dead have a set attitude. They will be releasing their latest album, “America The Beautiful” on June 20th for their hometown crowd, at the show in Toledo, OH. The album will be available at the remainder of the tour with Hanzel und Gretyl.

Hanzel Und Gretyl transports their own revolution to the stage, with a blend of death metal and industrial mayhem. Don’t let the German lyrics fool you; HUG are from NYC (although vocalist, Vas lived in Germany for several years). The German influence leads them to great chants and command of their crowds, as they use over-the-top parodies of German Nazi clichés, displayed in a very American way, which are innocent and to be taken as fun while they mix it into Sci-Fi antics. I guess not everyone got their joke and ironically enough, their albums have been banned in Germany.

Hanzel und Gretyl are currently out in support of their 6th album, “2012: ZwanzigZwolf” on Metropolis Records. The album is a concept album, based on the Mayan belief that the end of the world will be in the year 2012.

The tour will continue on and end June 22nd in Ithaca, NY.

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information, visit:
Hanzel Und Gretyl: hanzelundgretyl.com or myspace.com/hanzelundgretyl
Living Dead: livingdeadband.com or myspace.com/livingdeadband


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


May 25, 2008

HURT & ASHES DIVIDE at Krock Dysfunctional Family BBQ

May 2008

There was a great turn out for The Second Annual K-Rock Budweiser Dysfunctional Family Barbecue, which was held on May 24, 2008, at the Herkimer County Fairgrounds, in Frankfort, NY. This year's show featured Hurt, Ashes Divide, Armor for Sleep, Course of Nature, Caustic and Dead Rose.

Kicking off the show was Central New York's Dead Rose. Their independent release, "No Tomorrow" features their song, "So Sad" co-written with former Brand New Sin's frontman, Joe Altier. You can catch them playing around Central NY.

Caustic will be releasing their new album, "12 Step Suicide" next month (June 2008). Meanwhile, they continue to tour around central and western NY.

Course of Nature is currently out on tour with Hurt until Jun 21st, as they are in support of their latest album, "Damaged" (Jan 2008).

Armor for Sleep will be part of the Projekt Revolution tour this summer with Linkin Park. Their latest album is ?Smile For Them? out on Warner Brother Records.

Ashes Divide will also be part of the Projekt Revolution tour this summer. Ashes Divide was formed by guitarist, Billy Howerdel, who had also formed A Perfect Circle. On the album, Billy Howerdel played almost every instrument used (vocals, guitar, bass guitar, keyboard), along side of Josh Freese who was on drums and Devo Keenan who was on the cello (the son of Maynard Keenan - Tool/A Perfect Circle). The album also featured drummer Dean Sainz, ( Johnette Napolitano), Matt Skiba (Alkaline Trio) and bassist Paz Lenchantin (ex- A Perfect Circle). Their debut album is "Keep Telling Myself It's Alright" which was released in April. Live, their set was packed full of emotion. This is one of those bands, that I would say to keep your eye on.

Headlining the show was ex- Capitol Recording artist, Hurt. While some may know them from their past albums and singles "Rapture" and "Falls Apart," Hurt exploded on the radio scene with their fall 2007 release "Vol. II" and single "Ten Ton Brick." Live, Hurt improvises, shapes and molds their music, where it is a different form from the original recording. For an example, the intro for "Summers Lost," could of passed for a different interpretation of "House Carpenter."Recently, (May) they parted ways with their bassist and picked up Rek Mohr (ex-Leo) as their replacement which appears seamless. Hurt is currently out on their headlining tour until June 21st. Keep an eye out for when they come through your town.

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information, visit:
Hurt: hurtband.com or myspace.com/hurt
Ashes Divide: ashesdivide.com or myspace.com/ashesdivide
Armor For Sleep: armorforsleep.com or myspace.com/armorforsleep
Course Of Nature: courseofnature.com or myspace.com/courseofnature
Caustic: myspace.com/causticusa
Dead Rose: deadroserocks.com or myspace.com/deadrose
K-Rock: krock.com


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


April 26, 2008

NEW ENGLAND METAL and HARDCORE FEST - FULL PHOTO GALLERIES

April 2008

Here is the full PHOTO GALLERIES from The New England Metal & Hardcore Fest:


Look for our entire coverage from the show, including video interviews, full photo galleries and info on our upcoming contest.


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


April 26, 2008

NEW ENGLAND METAL and HARDCORE FEST - DAY 3

April 2008

It was the last day of the New England Metal and Hardcore Festival in downtown Worcester MA. Once again, a day packed full of great diversed bands. From the Hardcore/Metalcore ripping up the stage (Full Blown Chaos, Shai Hulud, Emmure) to the Paganfest stopping by (Eluveitie, Tyr, Turisas, Ensiferum), from the death grinding sounds of Meshuggah to the punk electro-metal of Ministry, the fest closed on a well rounded note.

Here is the last MINI GALLERY from the show:


Look for our entire coverage from the show, including video interviews, full photo galleries and info on our upcoming contest.


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


April 26, 2008

NEW ENGLAND METAL and HARDCORE FEST - DAY 2

April 2008

It was day 2 at the New England Metal and Hardcore Festival in downtown Worcester MA. It was a day packed full of great bands including Hate Eternal, Kataklysm, Keep Of Kalessin, Behemoth, Shadows Fall, Dimmu Borgir and many more.

Here is another MINI GALLERY with more to come from the show:


Tomorrow night will bring ENSIFERUM, DIVINE HERESY, MESHUGGAH, MINISTRY and many more.

For more information, visit:
Official site: metalandhardcorefestival.com or on myspace.com


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


April 25, 2008

NEW ENGLAND METAL and HARDCORE FEST - DAY 1

April 2008

It was the first day at the New England Metal and Hardcore Festival in downtown Worcester MA. It kicked off with a great show, as the Giganatour took over the first night.

Here is our first glimps from the show... with more to come: MINI PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


Tomorrow night features BEHEMOTH, SHADOWS FALL, DIMMU BORGIR and many more.

Sunday's show features DIVINE HERESY, MESHUGGAH, MINISTRY and many more.

For more information, visit:
Official site: metalandhardcorefestival.com or on myspace.com


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


April 19, 2008

Drowning Pool, Nonpoint, Five Finger Death Punch, Eqypt Central & Another Black Day @ Northern Lights - Clifton Park NY

Know Your Enemy Tour... April 2008

"Know Your Enemy" tour, named for headliner Drowning Pool’s hit single "Enemy," is hitting cities across the U.S. until May 18 with Five Finger Death Punch, Eqypt Central, Another Black Day and on selected cities, Nonpoint. We caught the tour as it pulled through Clifton Park, NY.

First up: ANOTHER BLACK DAY. This hard rock band from Fort Lauderdale, Florida gave the crowd a taste of what their upcoming self-titled debut album will sound like. The buzz around this band is stirring; the anticipation grows, as the album doesn’t come out until May 20th through Bieler Bros Records. Many radio stations have picked up their powerful epic single, “Wicked Soul.� You can check out a few more songs on their myspace page. This will definitely be a band to watch for.

Second to take the stage, Memphis TN’s EGYPT CENTRAL in support of their self-titled debut, produced by Josh Abraham (Linkin Park, Korn, Velvet Revolver), which came out back in January (2008). Their current single, "You Make Me Sick" is climbing up the modern rock charts as it makes it’s mark, lighting up the phone request lines as their catchy guitar riffs get stuck in your head. Check out their video on myspace (http://www.myspace.com/egyptcentral) as it’s a fair representation of what this band is like live. They will be on Rockline Radio on Monday, April 28th where fans can call in and ask questions : 1-800-344-ROCK.

Third up: FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH. They hit the stage with brass knuckles on, kicking the crowd’s energy in motion!! Earlier in the year, FFDP had to cancel 2 months of tour dates, due to their singer developing calluses on his vocal chords. He didn’t miss a note and his vocals were back stronger than ever. Although their set was cut a little short, they left a lasting impression on everyone in the club. FFDP's debut album, "The Way of the Fist", has sold more than 90,000 copies since coming out last summer (debuting it while on the Family Values tour). They will continue on tour with Drowning Pool until April 25; then they will jump on tour with Disturbed on April 27th. Look for FFDP this summer on the Rockstar Energy Mayhem Festival which starts in July.

Fourth up: Drowning Pool. They are out on the road in support of their third album, "Full Circle." The album is the bands recording debut of new singer Ryan McCombs (ex-Soil). This was our first chance at seeing them live with Ryan. He puts his own twist on the band, yet it compliments them nicely. They will continue to tour across the US until May 25, 2008. Then head out to Australia until June 4th, then back on the road to Canada Montreal June 22, 2008.

Last up: Nonpoint. Vocalist, “Elias Soriano� made the comment on stage that it seemed like they were here in Clifton Park last week. It was actually a few months ago, but the crowd couldn’t get enough either way! Out in support of their latest release, "Vengeance,"on Bieler Bros Records.May 10, Nonpoint will be headlining "The Most Wanted" tour in Houston, TX with THE EXIES, DEEPFIELD and UNDER THE FLOOD.

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information, visit:
Nonpoint: myspace.com/nonpoint
Drowning Pool: drowningpool.com or myspace.com/drowningpool
Five Finger Death Punch: fivefingerdeathpunch.com or myspace.com/ffdp
Eqypt Central: egyptcentral.net or myspace.com/egyptcentral
Another Black Day: anotherblackday.net or myspace.com/ablackday


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


Febuary 29, 2008

Devildriver, Napalm Death, 36 Crazyfists, Straighline Stitch & Invitro @ Northern Lights - Clifton Park NY

Bound by the road... March 2008

From California to Tennessee; from Alaska to England, Devildriver, Napalm Death, 36 Crazyfists, Straighline Stitch and Invitro are "Bound By The Road" with a diverse style of metal. They kicked off the tour in Modesto, CA and will continue throughout North America with their last show on April 18th in Tempe, Az. We got to catch up with this unique lineup in Clifton Park, NY...

First up, LA's Invitro. You may remember them causing quite a stir this past summer on the Family Values tour with their punk rock/prog rock/hardcore sound and their crazy tin foil masks. In September, they released their debut album, "When I Was a Planet" on Gridiron Records.

Second to take the stage, from Knoxville, TN: Straight Line Stitch. They brought forth their melodic death metal with front woman Alexis Brown. She has powerful clean vocals and brutal growls which complement their music style nicely. Currently out in support for their upcoming album, "When Skies Wash Ashore".

This album is due summer 2008 on Koch Records, under the Raging Nation Records imprint. The album will included a special guest appearance from Jamey Jasta of Hatebreed on the song "Taste of Ashes." They recently premiered their new video for "Remission" on MTV2's HEADBANGERS BALL.

Next, all the way from Kenai, Alaska, was 36 Crazyfists. They are out in support of their upcoming release, "The Tide and It's Takers" due May 27 on Ferret Music. They recently debuted their new song,"Absent Are The Saints" exclusively on Myspace Metal: myspace.com/metal.

On April 19th, they will be celebrating "Record Store Day" by releasing a 3song EP titled "The Oculus" which will feature 2 songs off the new album and a never before released song. Over 375 independent music stores across the country will be participating in "Record Store Day." For more information, visit recordstoreday.com.

Once this tour winds up, look for 36Crazyfists on the second stage at this summer's Rockstar Energy MAYHEM Festival with headliners Slipknot, Disturbed, and Dragonforce. Fourth band to take the stage brought a British Invasion; but definitely not the type you will find in our American Pop Culture. Hailing from Birmingham, England comes metal pioneers Napalm Death. For over 2 and a half decades, Napalm Death have invented and crafted grindcore! They have proven to outlast any trend while never compromising their style. This tour is a treat for any metal head to see in a club setting. Last to take the stage, from Santa Barbara California, was DEVILDRIVER. Out in support of their third album, "The Last Kind Word" on Roadrnnner Records. This is their first headlining tour since the new album was released.

When the tour winds down, Devildriver will be heading over seas for a European tour with Opeth, Arch Enemy and 3 Inches Of Blood, kicking off April 22nd in United Kingdom with dates posted until May 6 in Russia.

In other news, Devildriver will be releasing a digital EP, "Head On To Heartache" on April 21st to help kick off their UK tour.

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information, visit:
Devildriver: devildriver.com or myspace.com/devildriver
Napalm Death: napalmdeath.org or myspace.com/napalmdeath
36 Crazyfists: 36crazyfists.com or myspace.com/36crazyfists
Straight Line Stitch: straightlinestitch.com or myspace.com/straightlinestitch
INVITRO: myspace.com/invitrorules


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::


January 25, 2008

HellYeah, Machine Head, NonPoint & Bury Your Dead @ Northern Lights - Clifton Park NY

Jan 2008

The mosh pit couldn't get much bigger at the Northern Lights Nightclub on Jan 25. HellYeah kicked off the second leg of their headlining tour, "More Balls, More Volume, More Strength tour." HellYeah shared the stage this time with Machine Head, NonPoint and Bury Your Dead.

Bury Your Dead with their new vocalist, Mike Terry (formerly of Cassius) kicked off the night. The band recently recorded a new album, as-yet-untitled, which you can look for it to hit stores this spring via Victory Records.

Next up was NonPoint and they returned to the stage with a "Vengeance." They will be doing headlining shows on off dates from this tour, while in support of their latest release "Vengeance" on Bieler Bros Records. Check their myspace page for the additional tour dates.

Then, exploding on stage was Machine Head, which sent the crowd into a state of euphoric chaos!!! Their unrelenting brutality can not be ignored!!! Last year proved to be a rewarding one for Machine Head, they gained astronomical reviews for their latest album "The Blackening." After 12years and 8 albums, the buzz created well deserved attention, which in turn led them to win several international awards including "Best International Album" at the Danish Metal Awards to their Grammy nomination for "Best Metal Performance." MH ended up on several "End of The Year/ Best of" lists including Kerrang!, Metal Hammer, Terrorizer, Revolver, Metal Maniacs, Decibel, and Guitar World to name a few for their album and live performances. If you haven't seen MH, especially in support of "The Blackening," you have no idea just how much you are missing out!!

Finally to take the stage, was the well anticipated headliner, HellYeah.

     "If ya don't give a shit ya getcha' hellyeah
     Throwin' fists in the pit ya getcha' hellyeah
     Think you're fuckin' with this well hell no.
     Balls, volume, strength getcha' come on"

          Except from "HellYeah" by Hellyeah

Was the fan inspired lyrics to name the tour. While the band has a "carefree/good time attitude," it doesn't do the music justice to describe it that way. What started out as something for fun has turned into a metal beast, taking on a life of its own. From the moment the band took the stage to the last song, the crowd was one giant pit, leaving out only the back edge near the door. The sweat drenched metalheads left with a night full of ultimate gratification.

The "More Balls, More Volume, More Strength Tour," continues across the US throughout Febuary and into March. While on the road, Hellyeah guitarist Tom Maxwell will be updating fans with real-time broadcasts from his mobile phone via Kyte.tv. The diary is streaming at the band's website and MySpace page .

Be sure to check out our PHOTO GALLERY from the show:


For more information, visit:
HELLYEAH: www.hellyeahrocks.com or www.myspace.com/hellyeah
MACHINE HEAD: www.machinehead1.com or www.myspace.com/machinehead
NONPOINT: www.myspace.com/nonpoint
BURY YOUR DEAD: www.weareburyyourdead.com/ or www.myspace.com/buryyourdead


Permanent Link  Posted by Nadine Swiger ::