WILDMAN ENTERTAINMENT with JB BROCK

woodwindofmassdestruction:

Music Instruments shop by tuttoirlanda on Flickr.

My kind of Wah Peddle! MASSIVELY HUGE! \m/ \m/ (Taken with instagram)

My kind of guitar! \m/ \m/ (Taken with instagram)

     Hello and Greetings once again dear fans, friends, acquaintances, and all else who may be, and are reading this blog review. JB Brock here with you, coming through with another music album review. Today I bring all of you a review on a very up and coming local FL band (local to my hometown area) that as (of the time of this writing) have now  signed a distribution record deal and they will be coming to a best buy near you soon. This is Lakeland, Florida’s very own “UNKEMPT” and their self titled debut EP release.

     Coming into the “UNKEMPT” EP album with Track #1 “PIGS GET FAT, HOGS GET SLAUGHTERED” and with a song title like this, well you know, this is going to be one interesting music journey. And from the moment this track hits, you can tell this is nothing short of insane. As the power and intensity build in the very beginning notes, you should probably hold on, because the walls just shatter apart sonically, which is provided in part with their vocalist (Mr. David Hancock) as he just blasts away at your ears like a chisel into steel. The vocals just shriek with brutality never letting up for one moment. The breakdowns alone are nothing short of just bone rattling, and almost try crushing you under their power.

     The melodic structures on this track, which help maintain the speed your experiencing in such a flawless manner, are brought to us by a two-fold guitar duo team with (Mr. Chet Fox & Mr. Jason Sims) providing the unearthly sounds you hear contained within this record, at such break-neck speeds, it will literally, snap you in two! One of the things you may notice here is the “THUNDERING POWER” of the bass guitar brought to us by the one and only (Mr. Andy Unkempt) himself and you can feel his monster like thundering bass on these breakdowns as he is assisted by an incredible drummer with such blasting death metal esque’ playing with (Mr. Daniel Creekmore) as these two provide our swing, tempo, and groove.

     We now move onward into Track #2 “EVOLUTIONARY SUICIDE” which has some very unique and interesting structures to its sonic and dynamic ranges. This song is slowed down (considerably so) in the manner of Unkempt’s other works in playing but nonetheless works in this context, revealing a more technical side of the band and their music creation. The swing and groove here do build in a ebb and flow with moments of chaotic speed and horrific slowness, really driving this song into your head. The melodies alone just blast away like bombs being dropped upon you somewhere in the middle of a war.

     The introduction was abit unusual for me, as I do not hear to many sermon type doomsday speeches proceeding the music, however considering what the subject matter is here, I would say it does fit in the context of the overall message quite well. There are a great deal of elements here, that really make this particular track unique. Choosing which ones to focus on, might be the hardest part in this review. We will start out with the chaotic breakdowns that are relentlessly brutal and powerful, and of course, being blended with such ferocious vocals that at moments (become somewhat melodic like insanity) that just spew forth such indescribable brutality that it just hammers this song down your throat.

     We continue on with the elements of this song, and the instrumental interludes are nothing short of just mind boggling in their nature of speed and intensity, and once again the bass does a phenomenal job at executing such power and prowls in those breakdowns, and of course the drumming, this is HEAVY METAL and THRASH at some of it’s ultimate finest here. Make sure you listen to all the elements here and see for yourself.

     As we round the home stretch (much too quickly if you ask this reviewer) we come into Track #3 “THE RUIN OF SOULS” and from the moment this track hits, with it’s drumming tearing down the walls of the sonic structure and the dynamic range just explodes apart. Musical chaos abounds on this track with bomb blasting melodies and vocals that could just kill (in a sense). That is where my problem with this track lied within.

     I noticed the vocals seemed abit pulled back into the mix, fighting for space with the instruments, and it sounded to me, as if they lost some of their punch attack on this song. Now this could be by design to heighten the music and it’s power and if so then, that makes total and complete sense to me. However; If I may offer a positive suggestion (if that was not by design) I would believe the vocals could use abit more strengthening and maybe pushed up into the overall mix more, maybe with more guttural growling and intensity. Overall I do like this track, and it does not lack any intensity and or power. Make sure to check it out and see what you think.

     And for the closing track of this EP we are introduced to Track #4 “SHEPHERD THE MEEK” and once again, from the word go, let the chaos commence. And it does with unrelenting power and brutality. This track is nothing short of incredibly powerful. From the vocals shrieking with horror and venom, to the death metal style drumming, that blasts you to insanity, to the god like thundering of the bass, and the relenting melodic structure, there is nothing here that just does not tear the dynamic range off and out of the stratosphere. Make sure that you check this track out here as this could be an excellent contender for mainstream radio airplay.

     That is “UNKEMPT” and their self-titled EP in all of its glory. Coming in just a little over 16 minutes, this outfit fits into a small space what takes some records an entire disc to reach. These musicians and friends are some of the most talented individuals I have ever witnessed come out of my hometown in the music world. Not to mention, for the ones of the group, that I do personally know, they are extremely humble, and gracious, for every single fan they have and earn.

     And now (as of the time of this writing) with them picking up major label sponsorship, I hope that all of you NEVER MISS an opportunity to see them perform live. They engage their audience in every show, and it is always a pleasure speaking with them before and after. Make sure that you watch for “UNKEMPT“coming to a town, city, and venue near you!

Catch you all on the Wildside of Life \m/ \m/ \m/ \m/

 - JB Brock

You can follow UNKEMPT here at these links listed:

http://www.facebook.com/Unkempt

http://www.reverbnation.com/unkempt

http://www.myspace.com/unkemptmusic

     Hello and Greetings: dear fans, friends, readers, and all who are reading this. JB Brock here with you today, coming in off the road with another review of a rapidly rising upcoming band, and a gem of a music album. Today I bring to all of you an incredibly talented musical outfit/band that truly does bring some refreshing sounds to the sonic landscape that is metal music, with “BURNING FAIR VERONA” and their latest EP “DYNASTY” available now. Dynasty clocks in under at an astounding 25 minutes of play but within that time frame, you (the listener) are taken on an aural and sonic journey into the depths of: insanity, madness and creativity.

     As we start our musical journey with “BFV” we are introduced to them with a haunting intro track simply titled “THE BURNING” and from the moment the wall of sound builds into it’s full dynamic potential, and the bells toll and ring out, you can understand that this will not be your usual journey into the realms of the metal music genre. This track is otherworldly in a sense of it’s feeling, as it builds an ambience that sounds like the soundtrack to the afterlife, or into some great battle from ages long ago. The intro track for (this reviewer) really seemed to transport me to a Dark, Trans-Universal type of place that felt strangely familiar. Take a moment and listen to this opening introduction. We are on our way in this journey.

     We head off onto our journey deeper into the beast that is “BFV” with Track #1 “STILL MEMORY” and as it comes into the listeners view, you can see the speed we have picked up, hold on everyone, time is now blurring, as our speed now never stops increasing. Where exactly are we on our way too? Let this track guide you. As we enter this track the complete guitar work, brought to us by two very talented musicians with (Evan Ursitti & Barry Pinto), with it’s slightly distorted but somewhat sustained notes create an ambient melody that carries us throughout this entire song. Once the overdrive crash comes in, the walls of sonicality shatter apart. The bass guitar work on this track pounds relentlessly away, and you can feel the slow sludge of hell in the chugging on the tempo. The vocals on this track brought forth to us all by (Josh Lester) are nothing short of ferocious and quiet (at moments) with the sadness and sometimes, madness, felt in one’s own mind, while reflecting on a “still memory” that won’t fade away.

     As we blast on through the walls of the musical sonic landscape, we are brought to Track #2 with the next track, “SELF HOMICIDE” and from the moment this tracks starts you can understand what is going on here. We have now reached that point of no turning back. One of the first things I noticed on this song, were the lyrics within the chorus of the song, “I Am The Path Of Destruction” perhaps a self-reflective look at the past and the decisions made, or a look back on where they were heading and where they may still yet go?

     Taking a look at the guitar and drums, we are brought for a razor sharp edge as we stand overlooking the cliff out of reality. The bass guitar here works on such a power level, that it almost levels you with its attack and reverb, sustaining those “god like” moments of invincibility. As for the drumming on this song, fast, violent, and menacing, are just a few ways and words in which I can describe it.

     On the Instrumental breakdowns and interludes they almost take an “out of body” and reality type feel, which just adds more power to the song, and for a moment, really takes you into the mind of someone’s maddens. The musical elements of this song work quite well together, as the ebb and flow swim very tightly and no one instrument here fights for any type of dominance. I will go out here on a “proverbial” limb, and (in my opinion) say this, this track has (what I believe to be) the right elements for being a major radio-playing contender single. Make sure that you check out this track.

     Onward into the heart of the chaos with Track #3 “ILL PREPARED” and from the moment the song begins the venom and despair here can be felt through the songs dynamic energy. The intro guitar work here sounds a bit like someone’s mind and spirit are finally letting go of reality. No more of whom you, or they once knew is left at this point inside. Machine gun rapid fire attacking drums brought to us by (Nicholas Colvin) carries the intensity of this song into new heights of dynamic range and really adds to the overall madness contained here within.

     Vocals on this track sound like what I like to call “CONTROLLED CHAOS” and are delivered across the whole sonic spectrum from left to right. Throughout the sonic landscape on this particular song, (and this may be by design) it seems that each instrument as well as the vocals are battling one another, and then in other moments, during the instrumental interludes (which bring a momentary piece of tranquility), it seems as if they all fall right in line and are clear and distinctive, as to say, they each have their own voice in the ensuing madness, and will not rest until you can understand each of them. The elements on this track are very interesting and work well together within the context message of the song.

     As we come into the home stretch of this EP record and our journey, we come to probably (my favorite) track on this record with, Track #4 “EXIT PLAN” and if you understand music, then you will know why I call this one, my favorite. From the very moment this track opens up, you can tell, that there is something very unique and powerful going on. The first thing that stood out to me was the opening introduction music. For melodic metal, (I myself) have not found “GOTHIC METAL” elements mixed inwardly before but they are very prevalent here, and really build almost a classical type of feeling to this song, before the walls of the sonic landscape are once again shattered apart.

     The vocals on this track are nothing short of monstrous and are delivered with such precision in their execution. From what I noticed during the instrumental interludes and breakdowns there seem to be some differing musical genre influences contained within, which make those parts quite unique (to this reviewer) and really add a new level of sound to this song. Not to mention the “re-introduction” breakdowns are incredibly brutal and just slice everything apart that stands in their way.

     As I continued to listen, near the 2/3 to 3/4 mark of the song, I found a more thrash type, death metal feel, which seemed to me, just another added element to the song, that raised the level up. Next are the drums and bass, which really provide a definite slow groove into a fast tempo type, swing and feel, another element that I found to be a positive for this track. This is truly one of the most unique songs I have heard in quite a while in this style and genre, and with such epic type elements, it is easy to see how talented these musicians really are, playing within the dynamic range contained on this track. This track would definitely be a GREAT addition to mainstream radio and I hope that all of you (reading this) will check this track out and hear all of these elements.

     We now are at the end of this EP with the final self-titled track, Track #5 “DYNASTY” and the insanity here just let’s go. For a closing track, this one is extremely powerful. The bass guitar work, bass drum, and (I will take a stab here) and say (potential super sub bass or equalized) make this bass slam the dynamic range apart. When I heard these parts even I had to go WOW! It was just so heart pounding-ly brutal and powerful that it really blew me away, (which as anyone knows me musically) is very hard to do.

     The vocals on this track are like taking shrapnel straight to the face, and are good. However; there are moments with the vocals, (which I noticed) that do sound a bit pulled back into the mix, and seemed (to me my opinion only) to be almost drowned in reverb. Now maybe as a positive suggestion, if the vocals could be beefed up a bit more into the mix, and maybe take a slight bit of the reverb off, and add may be more of what I would call “evilness” to them, if you will, then that might work better (for me) on this track. Just a suggestion, there is no reason to send me hate mail. Once again the instruments work very well here, and do have that ebb, and flow, that really make them sound like they are working together. A powerful closing track here indeed.

     There you have “DYNASTY” by “BURNING FAIR VERONA” fans. This is truly a band that knows musically what they are doing and where they are headed. Also if you are ever in the state of FLORIDA and have the chance to see them perform live, DO NOT miss that opportunity. These musicians are by far, some of the nicest, most influential, scene supporting; awesome, humble individuals (I myself) have ever met and had the honor of knowing and associating with. My company WILDMAN ENTERTAINMENT will be bringing you more of them very soon. So make sure you get your chance and DO NOT MISS your opportunity to see them.

Catch you all on the Wild Side \m/ \m/ \m/ \m/

 - JB Brock

You can find Burning Fair Verona at the links listed here:

http://www.twitter.com/bfv813

http://www.reverbnation.com/burningfairverona

http://www.last.fm/music/Burning+Fair+Verona/Dynasty

     Hello dear fans (old and new), friends, readers, and everyone in between. JB Brock here with you checking in from the road. Today I bring you a review on a rapidly rising band out of Melbourne FL called “Murderfly”

     We start out with TRACK #1 called “TWIST THE KNIFE” and from the word go; this song pulls you in with its distinctive melody. On vocal duties for this band is a voice unlike any other that I (myself) have heard in some time with my brother, and good friend, Mr. Bo Dinkins. Within this song, his vocals are just as heavy and brutal as you could ever imagine.

     The lyrics alone have so much power and heaviness dripping off of them, it almost takes a literal “RIP” out of your jugular, chews it up, spits it out, and leaves you coming back for more. The drum work here provided to us by “Mr. Ben Bassett” just blasts out on all eight cylinders and never quits. The bass helps in continuing to push the speed, as the song just will not let up in intensity. The dynamic range of the sonic landscape within this song is nothing short of incredible and the power alone, will just mow you over! This is a great track and way to be introduced to this band.

     Onward to “TRACK #2” we are brought deeper into the brutality of “MURDERFLY” with “REMOVE MY STITCHES” and once again, as soon as the melody kicks in, you know what this is going to be all about. Heavy vocals are just insanely “DEATH METAL-ISH” in their nature and sound with brutality just spewing forth. At times almost sounding nothing short of just absolutely “EVIL” but working so well within the context of this song.

     The guitar work provided by “BEYOND” and the other cohorts in Murderfly alone, seems to be crushing along with nothing but power and chaos, that really seem to build a wall of sound that brings the heaviness into the main soundscape of the sonic range. The bass brought to us by “Mr. Tim Greear” and drums really provide some almost “THRASH” type of groove and swing, as this song just churns along with unrelenting power. It is a definite must listen to track on this album.

     We now come to a more subdued and melodic part of the “MURDERFLY” record but only for a moment. Just to give you a taste of what is yet to come. We are now brought into “TRACK #3” with “REFLECT” and do not let the acoustic beginning fool you for one moment. The power that comes forth, comes through so swiftly and rapidly before you know what has hit you. The melody kicks with so much energy and power that it takes a literal hold of you before you know what has happened like a slow chugging juggernaut.

     The vocals are very harsh at moments and yet quite powerful. Lyrically (to this reviewer), there is so much truth contained within these lyrics, for all the pain coming out, (you almost do not need that pointed out but, it is worth mentioning), there seems to be a poignant message here. The reverb on the vocals adds a nice touch I believe, and the overall dynamic range of this song seems pegged at 10+.

     Next up we are onto “TRACK #4” with a track simply titled “YOU” and this track reminds in some ways, of some good “CLASSIC 70’s ROCK N ROLL” mixed with today’s aggressive nature, in it’s melodic overtones. The guitars crush and swim into and out of one another during the instrumental interludes within this track quite well, and the bass and drums just add to the explosive power of this song while it chugs onward in moments of sludgy-esque’ blues influence styling’s. The vocals here never let up for one moment, with their power and intensity. Another strong effort from these boys right here, so make sure to check it out.

     We slow things down a bit now into a more “REFLECTIVE” nature (as I think of it) with “TRACK #5” called “REVERSE THE ENERGY” and just the title alone tells you that there is something very soulful and powerful about this particular song. The acoustic guitar beginning adds an ambience that almost sounds and seems otherworldly. The lyrical delivery here is quite deep, powerful, thought provoking, and at moments very real.

     They almost seem to speak of that pain in love, loss, and loss of emotion that many if not all of us go through. The guitar work here is abit haunting at times (always impressive), and then at other moments it seems the walls of sonicality come crashing down, almost as if, the world is being stripped down (for someone who has never seen it before) into it’s basic elements for the first time to bring forth light to previously clouded eyes that were blinded by reality, fate, and the world.

     The drums here to me stood out because they have a very “TRIBAL” feel to them, which is something (I myself) have always been a fan of. The breakdowns contained within this song seem to flow and swim very well into and out of one another, as they are quite powerful, as they almost seem to follow that path of lost emotions within certain moments we hear almost reverberating from within us as you listen closely. Feel your soul and spirit fly free here. This song is definitely one of my favorites on this album and I think one listen to it (yourself) and you will see why.

     Now we’re into the literal belly of the beast with Murderfly and “TRACK #6” called “WIDE OPEN” and if you thought we lost power before well, we found right where it went here! From the moment the music comes busting through the door it rocks you with power and intensity. The most noticeable aspect here musically is the bass guitar, as it just hammers the heartbeat of this songs soul into you like a jackhammer.

     The lyrics here once again do not disappoint with their power and realistic-ness, as the broken and betrayed emotions come pouring out and forth from within the song. At times almost sounding chaotic and then found all at once. “Cut It Wide Open, The True Colors Come Out” and “The Path Remains The Same” what does that say and speak to you dear listener? Another thought provoking track here you definitely do not want to miss.

     As we enter into “TRACK #7” with “FLOWERS” this may be the most familiar track to you (the listener) as this is Murderfly’s most played single on FL radio. From the moment the melody opens up with such melodic distortion on the guitar notes (which sound very cool) you know something here is going on that is nothing short of powerful.

     This track almost sounds like an anthem for the beat down, as they rise back up to take back what was taken from them. The music provided by the all instruments here sound like they operate as one unit. Sound familiar in comparison to the message here? That unification of the instruments here, just seems to bring forth a wall of powerful sound, that works very well here making this a van incredibly heavy song and a definite good contender for mainstream radio. One track you definitely do not want to miss right here.

     We’re now starting to enter into the homestretch of Murderfly with “TRACK 8” and “FOREVER 2 NEVER” and as we come down and slow things down abit, we seem to have at moments with some real chug and sludge. I think we stood out to me here was the “THRASH” type sound this song here seems to have provided by our guitar gods in the band.

     Lyrically they sounded like a bit rap/rock, which is unique for this record and their overall sound. This is definitely quite interesting track with unique placement on the record. Overall the tempo here is definitely a plus but, for some reason, this song, really didn’t hit the mark with me that well. It just seemed (to me) that something was and might be missing. Now I could be totally wrong on this aspect. As to what might be missing I honestly don’t know at this point in time (at the time of this writing) so I will definitely have to listen to it more and see if this particular track grows on me.

     The Murderfly train is in full gear now. And the speed we have is going to take us all the way into the end as we enter “TRACK #9” with “Genuine Failure” and the first thing noticeable here is that the music definitely has some powerful swing and groove here, and it matches the tempo provided in keeping the speed at full blast as we go. The guitars stood out to me more here on this track seemingly bringing a hypnotic melody that really pulled me into the song.

     The drumming here seems to have some interesting moments and parts, during some of the transitions where I can hear each drum being played very clearly. On the instrumental interludes (which I do like very well once again), the lyrics coming in afterwards seemed abit monotone/robotic at times, throughout the verse work, and (to me) really seemed more evident on the hook lines of “Do I Look Like I Give A Fuck.” Now that could just be me, and how I perceived it to be, from how I was listening to this particular song.

     That may have been by design of this song. It seems to me though, that maybe if more melodic emotion could be placed into it, it might work better, depending on what emotion you’re trying to invoke. Over all not a bad song, just needs abit more polishing in the reviewer’s opinion.

     Here we are at “TRACK 10” with “Fuck You In The Neck” and what can I say here. This is just HEAVY HEAVY HEAVY musically and melodically. Slow heavy playing here with so much chug it’s like a train on an uphill climb.

     The guitars here sound like a literal “WALL OF SOUND” as all the “MOTHERFUCKERS” here follow front man “BO”and “JUMP” and, you might recognize the melody here as sounding abit “Slayer-esque’ as I did, which provide a backdrop in bringing more heaviness to this song. The lyrics alone are nothing short of evil, and just reflective of a murderous tone in nature. Brutality at it’s finest. A great “MOSH PIT” track here.

     At then end we are delivered to another powerful song with “TRACK 11” and “BMF.” Now if you cannot figure out what that stands for, I’m sure the song itself will do that for you in just moments! What can I say honestly about this song that it, itself doesn’t? This is true “HARD ROCK & METAL” at it’s finest!!! Sonically, the music is just like a 12 gauge shotgun, with such explosive power it blasts you straight in your face. You must experience this song first hand to see and hear just exactly what I mean.

     Well everyone this is MURDERFLY at it’s most raw, real, powerful, and heavy. And through all of this power, these are some of the most humble, down to earth, coolest guys you will ever have the chance of meeting. And they love their fans. Even when they come right off stage. Always cool no matter who you are! So make sure to get out to one of their shows when they come to your town. You DO NOT under any circumstances want to miss them. Make sure to also get this album now before it goes away. It is definitely one album you cannot miss having!

- JB Brock

ANGEL SCAR EP REVIEW

Hello Fans, Friends, Readers, and Alike. JB Brock here with all of you once again. Things certainly are picking up for me in many areas. Today I bring to all of you a review of a very unique band with quite an interesting sound that I recently had the chance to see perform live. Straight of Ft. Meyers FLA this is ANGEL SCAR. 

     They take all forms, styles, genres, and more of music, bring them into a tornadic vortex, re-amplify and then shoot straight back out to the world on a power level that I as a listener (myself), have not heard before in quite sometime if ever. I always seek out the new, unusual, and unique in new bands of today and ANGEL SCAR is just that type of band.

     They refer to their fans as “SCARS” as you might have guessed, and all of the members of this band, (of which I have had) the distinct and utmost honor of speaking with bring forth a level of playing and musical experience that range all over the music genre spectrum. Also this is one of the most humble bands I have met in quite sometime as well.

     They make it a point to really put their fans first. They will engage you in conversation and talk to you about anything and everything music related or not. These are very cool individuals (in my opinion) who already have a very rabid following and as such, they were excited to hear that I would be doing a review of their current 4 song EP which in and of itself is an excellent listen, and at least (for me) makes me want to know more about them and holds my anticipation on the music they come forward with next! 

So let’s jump on in to the review of ANGEL SCAR

     We are first brought into the ANGEL SCAR world by their First track called “MY DARK PASSENGER” which has an almost early “Iron Maiden” “Swedish Power Metal” feel to it. That is until the HOWLING SCREAMING vocals of Mr. Rob Medeiros coming into sound. The vocals here remind me of King Diamond in some regards almost as if he would be, had he been on Steroids. HA HA HA Now wouldn’t that have been an interesting sound for them way back in the day? I digress, back to the song at hand here.

     The music here in it’s dynamic range (brought to us by three very talented musicians) with (Mr. Mark McNeil, Mr. Paul Sheets, & Mr. Andrew Kallas) literally seems to be chaotic, almost all over the spectrum (at times) which work very well within the confines of this song. This song has very “old-school” Death Metal influence if you ask this reviewer which I definitely can get in to, hopefully you will be able to as well.

     A couple of the things that I found problematic with this song were the facts of: The bass guitar seemed at times to be fighting for the musical landscape space (if you will) with the bass being turned sharply upwards at times (for me) almost fighting for ground with the guitar and the song seems to close out (end) abit to quickly for me.  Overall, I do like this song, very experimental in it’s nature and could use a bit of tightening up and I believe that would make it work very well here. 

     Next up we are thrust deeper into the SCAR world with the Second track ”AT HOME WITH THE GROTESQUE” which starts out MONSTROUS in musical size. The vocals here are quite interesting. Literally all over the board but still seemingly coming to you straight down the center. The vocal growls on this song are reminiscent of Amon Amarth/Six Feet Under.

     This song melody has what I call a very “Slow Sludge Chugging Groove” almost Clutch type of sound to it. The Instrumental Interludes with the clean vocals are a nice touch on this song. I do find these clean vocals a little pitchy at moments with some slight vibrato (and this could be the way) it is supposed to be. Overall it is another song that I do truly enjoy listening to as I do have the record on rotation in my music collection currently.

Into the home stretch of this EP we are now shot head first into the Third track titled “TREASON OF MAN” which is a very wicked sounding song and could be a contender for mainstream radio airplay in this reviewers opinion. The dynamic range of this song seems more contained and focused down the middle really delivering the power that is ANGEL SCAR directly to the listener. The blast beat drumming on this song is quite remarkable and really does add to the overall swing and groove of this song.

     My only issue with this song was that, the vocals seemed to really drop in quickly at the beginning of the song almost when it starts. A suggestion (in my opinion) would be to build up a bit of the song first. And then within maybe say 10 seconds or so start laying the vocals down straight to the listeners throat. See a positive suggestion :) Overall the song is actually one of my favorites with it’s swing and groove and I honestly believe that with a bit more tightening on the production level this could be the song to really take ANGEL SCAR mainstream.

     We here at the all too quickly end (in this reviewers opinion) with the Fourth track on this EP called “THE DIN OF IT ALL” which is just an INSANE track of metal ferocity. The instrumental beginning is quite haunting almost building into a sort of “HELL-ESQUE” reality you’re about to face and ANGLE SCAR is going to be the soundtrack to your journey. The dynamic range melodically, seems to be pegged to the wall on an insane level that shows no signs of slowing down.

     ANGEL SCAR really turns up everything here for the close of the record. By design, perhaps? The vocals and melody definitely fit & flow very well together on this song really battling back and forth on the musical front, never overpowering one another. The ending vocals bring back life into play that haunting melody which includes a lyric a like “Look Upon Me, As My Wicked Eyes Do Smile” which to me are the classic signs of insanity and psychosis. LOVE IT all of which really fit the context of this song.

     My only outtake with this song was that the vocal parts seemed punched in and punched out almost on a different tape. I’m not sure if that was what the production value was or if the band wanted it that way but it took me a slight bit out of the song at moments. If that can be fixed and really tighten up and polish this song then this as well could be another song to take ANGEL SCAR into mainstream radio airplay.

     Well everyone there you have it. ANGEL SCAR out of Ft.Meyers Florida. A truly unique musical outfit with a very interesting sound that all of you should experience. Especially if you enjoy new and unique sounding music with very cool individuals at the helm as you have with these four very talented musicians who love all types of music and their fans. I hope to have the chance myself to see this band more and bring you more about them in the coming months. I will keep all of you posted. I keep this CD in constant rotation as well.

Till next time fans, friends, old & new readers, and everyone in between. More adventures and travels await me, heading back out on the road again.

Catch you all on the Wild Side \m/ \m/ 

  - JB Brock

Make sure to follow ANGEL SCAR at the links listed below (they love their fans) tell them JB BROCK sent you.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Angel-Scar/186460104733386?ref=ts

Twitter: @angelscarband

SOUTHERN FRIED GENOCIDE EP REVIEW

Hello dear fans, friends, readers (new and established) and more, JB Brock here with all of you again. WOW! There certainly has been a lot going on as of late. Sorry for my lack of writing. I promise all of you. It is and has definitely been worth the wait.

     Today I bring to all of you an incredible southern inspired rocking band that I had the pleasure & honor of seeing and meeting back in January 2012, in Orlando, FL with the guys of  “SOUTHERN FRIED GENOCIDE”

     The delay in the this blog was so I could bring you one of the first reviews of their new EP release which I just received within the past few weeks. Now let me begin to try and set the stage here for a visual picture in you (the listeners) mind.

     Think of Southern Fried Genocide (SFG as they happily refer to themselves) abit like Lynyrd Skynyrd meets AC/DC and deluge them with some George Thorogood and Motorhead and their you have “SOUTHERN FRIED GENOCIDE” with their bluesy, sludge, rock n roll metal-esque’ rockabilly sound. This band truly defines what is down home southern rock/metal from a band that lives by the beach.

     These guys mean business and when they take the stage you know it. The power and volume of their sound is so intense you would think that Spinal Tap, or Man-O-War were playing and Southern Fried Genocide only have their stuff turned up halfway. That alone should paint the picture of power that is SFG.

So come on, let’s dive right on into their self-titled EP and the review I have for all of you.

     We are introduced to Southern Fried Genocide with their First track: “NEVER BROKE THE LAW” A tune about everyday life. As the music comes into focus and listening volume the dynamic range is right down the proverbial middle. Steve’s Vocalsare monstrous and really build the soundscape of what this song is. The music here is fast, intense, groove laden, and doesn’t stop for one moment. Dynamically, the music is pegged at 10 and above thanks to several factors.

     The two guitarists alone “Mark & Wes”really battle it out on the sonic soundscape as the groove of the song itself is presented to us by “Reid & Ralph” on Bass and Drums and the tempo drives the song in overall incredibleness. There are a couple of slight instrumental interludes that take the song to new heights for moments in intensity.

     The song itself pulls you into it’s world as if almost to follow the chorus “I NEVER BROKE THE FUCKING LAW” but gives you the idea that maybe it would be fun just once to try it. (WARNING: I do not personally advocate you in going out to break the law) but you may just get that feeling of self-rebelliousness. A definite great track here and an excellent way to bring you into the world of SFG. A possible mainstream radio airplay track right here.

     Now we move on to the Second track with: “FOUR DOOR HORNET”. Another track that doesn’t let up for one moment with speed and intensity. As we open the track up “Reid’s” bass comes thundering in like a run away anvil hammer that someone couldn’t stop. The drums provided to us by “Ralph” are just as pummeling. The groove in this song definitely cannot be missed. “Stevo” on vocal duties once again really show some rawness and provide an old-school type of feel for the song.

     This track certainly has more southern overtones which (this band is known for) so you may notice an old-school rockabilly feel. These guys definitely have that going on within their sound and draw some inspiration from that genre of music. In this song we are almost transported back to the 1950’s, specifically 1953 if you will, with our “Four Door Hornet” and Drinking in the Bars, Womanizing, and just general debauchery which sounds pretty fun in this song. Definitely another strong track for SFG. 

     Next up on the album is the Third track called “BLACKOUT DRUNK” and let’s all face it, every single one of us here (myself included) have been here at one time or another, some maybe more than others would care to admit. Sounds fun now doesn’t it? As the song starts out we slow things down for a brief moment and really draw into that sludgy sound of some down home blues and rockabilly sound again.

     Of course by the time you notice the slowing down of the intro we’re back into full swing once again with the guitars coming back into full speed. The bass and drums are just really pounding away driving the speed of this song forward.  The music here really never let’s up for any moment. This song musically is a bit interesting in it’s dynamic range and sound.

     At moments with some quite nice guitar distortion (being used) rearing it’s ugly head on some notes that work incredibly well to really bring you into the true meaning of this song. Give it a listen and see if you can hear what I mean. “Don’t Know How I Got Here, Or Recall Where I’ve Been, Must Have Had To Much To Drink, I Got Blackout Drunk Again.” WOW I’m ready for a drink are you? ;)

     On our listening block next is the Fourth track ”SET YOU ON FIRE” on the introduction to this song, the drums come into listening volume, they almost take on a “Thrash” type quality, which seem to add some overall heaviness to this song, providing abit more metal sound to the actual tempo and groove. The guitars bring in a “Classic Rock” type of sound, which add more beef to the meat of this song.

     One of things I noticed in this song was just how hard the bass guitar hits in the tempo, and that alone stood out enough to me, for me to make note of that for you (the listener) so make sure to (check it out) and the speed alone built from the bass for the song, keeps everything speeding along forward. The vocals in this song are blended well within the mix, but at times still feel like I’m hearing them being barked at me, but with the rawness and power in which they are delivered, they do work quite well and really do fit into the context of this song.

     We are now in the middle of this record and are at break neck speed with the Fifth Track”The Dregs” classic rock at it’s finest, since the 1970’s, if you ask this reviewers opinion. We open up this song with Crunching Punishing Classic Rock guitar swing and groove in the big time on this track. Once again thanks to the bass and drums, the speed of this song is just pounding and pouring out of the speakers.

     There are a couple of distorted guitar interludes here with some overdrive and gain really turned up full blast which add another just wicked layer of sonic dynamics to this song and really blow it out of the water. The vocals on this track almost sound like an angry sermon being delivered to the masses, or maybe a message from the masses being delivered to the powers that be so that they can take note that “The Dregs of Society Stand Pissing On Your Grave” so the heartless, greedy ass bastard bureaucratic fat cats can hear an know that the people are mad and that they mean business. This song is the one that many listeners of this band have heard first, and it is for good reason. Make sure to check this one out everyone. 

     As we come into the home stretch of this record we are brought to the Sixth trackwith “Werebitch” and let me tell you that this is a fun track that you will be singing again and again too. We start out with a sound very reminiscent and or also inspired by George Thorogood with this songs melody and with one listen you will definitely hear for yourself.

     There seems to be a real “Blues” influence here on this track with a very slow sludgy groove that just chugs and churns away at the listener. As we come into the intro music the whole wall collapses and the band just explode in all at once with a sonic crescendo of sound. The bass and drums really carry the tempo on this song just setting pace with the guitars. The chorus alone is quite hypnotic and before you know it gets into your cerebellum (brain) and just will not let go.

     We now hit the end of this EP and hang on folks this is where the speed we have gained now escalates out of control. The Seventh Track“ Not A Normal Man” and the Eighth Track”Working For The Devil” are just incredible in speed, power, and monstrosity. Both of these tracks almost seem like a two part story in regards to their song titles and music (at least to this reviewer) see if you can find what I mean.

     The opening segments of each song are really where you can feel the power and velocity really coming into play fast at lighting quick speed. The music is incredibly fast moving as if to show the listener that SFG still has power left to go on all eight cylinders that it has been holding back. The sonic dynamics of both songs are just straight down the middle, with the dynamics in all modes of chaos just blasting away, while the guitars bass, and drums really flow and swim into and out of one another almost effortlessly.

     The vocals here are not bad, and certainly are not a deal breaker but on “Not A Normal Man” they seemed bait monotone for me, at times almost having no emotion or inflection (to this listener) but on “Working For The Devil” the vocals come back alive. Now could the monotone vocals be by design perhaps to add an ambience to “Not A Normal Man” only time may tell. Two more great slabs of ROCK N ROLL metal for your listening pleasure.

Well everyone that is Southern Fried Genocide. Do yourselves a huge favor a go catch these guys at a local U.S. show just as soon as you can. Pick up this EP as well. I guarantee you will play it over and over again as I do on constant rotation in my music. They are terrific guys and musicians and they are on their way too the top. I will have more on Southern Fried Genocide coming soon.

Until next time friends, fans, readers (new and old), and more. I will see you all on the WILD SIDE out there! \m/ \m/

 - JB Brock

You can find Southern Fried Genocide here at the links listed below. Tell them JB BROCKsent you.

Website: http://www.southernfriedgenocide.com 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SouthernFriedGenocide?ref=ts

Twitter: @SFG_band