Strange Taste In Music

Personal highlights:

"Double Blank", "Snow In Berlin" and "Unsung Heroine"

J.Viewz - Muse Breaks

2011-12-31T00:03:00.003+02:00

Year of release: 2005

Genre: Electronic/Trip Hop/Chill-out
Country: U.S.A./Israel

Tracks:
01. Under The Sun
02. Muse Breaks
03. Worth Light
04. When Silent It Speaks
05. Your Country
06. Room For Me, Room For Sweets
07. Moontime
08. Sunswop
09. Feeler
10. Two Steps Away
11. Protected

In a few words:

We will leave 2011 behind us with a quite "relaxing" album. "Music Breaks" is the debut album of J.Viewz. The producer Jonathan Dagan is the mastermind behind this project. Although many different musicians participated in the recordings of this album, the end result is quite homogenous. However, there is a lot of musical variety in the songs: electronic beats, trip-hop altitude, jazz pianos, funky rhythms, lounge - space atmosphere, acoustic guitar riffs and even many more. There numerous ideas and musical "layers" in each song, but, still, the tracks are easy listening. An undeniable highlight on this album is its musical diversity; many different styles are all combined together. Furthermore, Noa has a wonderful voice that raises every song one level higher. Overall, "Music Breaks" is an excellent album without any doubt.

Happy New Year to all of you!

Myspace

Personal highlights:

"Worth Light", "When Silent It Speaks" and "Sunswop"

Tommy Castro - Exception To The Rule

2011-12-27T00:58:00.003+02:00

Year of release: 1996

Genre: Blues/Soul/R & B
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Had Enough
02. Exception To The Rule
03. Nasty Habits
04. This Soul Is Mine
05. Sho' Enough
06. Me And My Guitar (Leon Russell cover)
07. Hard Luck Case
08. How Long Must I Cry
09. Leave This Town
10. Can't Quit The Blues (Buddy Guy cover)

In a few words:

“Exception To The Rule” is the second solo album of this great bluesman and - paraphrasing its title - without any (song) exception is truly enjoyable. Ten tracks that will cheer you up and make you wanna dance. Good rocking blues riffs, lot of inspired solos and nice saxophone melodies are some of the characteristics of this album. Although this is a blues album, there are many soul and R & B influences throughout the songs that make it much more interesting. Apart from guitar technique, Tommy has also a very good, soulful voice, which fits perfect to the music. The band behind him is a top notch, especially the saxophonist Keith Crossan very often shares lead duties with Tommy's guitar, maximizing the "fun vibe" of the album. If you like the blues, check this out.

Myspace

Personal highlights:

One by one, all tracks are excellent!

Veni Domine - Material Sanctuary

2011-12-15T00:37:00.005+02:00

Year of release: 1995

Genre: Progressive/Power Doom Metal
Country: Sweden

Tracks:
01. The Meeting
02. Ecclesiastes
03. Material Sanctuary
04. Ritual Of The Sinner
05. The Mass
06. Behold The Signs
07. Wrath Of The Lion
08. Beyond The Doom
09. Baroque Moderne

In a few words:

This album goes my memories back almost a decade. It was around 2000 when I first listened the opening track of this album in a CD completion of a metal magazine. I found quite interesting the mix of doom with power and progressive metal elements. A couple of years later I managed to listen the whole album. My first impression didn't change at all. So, Material Sanctuary is mainly a doom metal album, but its songs have complex structures and long durations. The organ/keyboard sound enhances the whole doom-y/funeral atmosphere of the album. Fredrik Ohlsson's voice is quite unique and sometimes reminds me Geoff Tate's voice. The album could be some kind of crossroad between doom and progressive metal. I am sure that fans of both genres will find it interesting.

Myspace

Personal highlights:

"The Meeting", "Material Sanctuary" and "Beyond The Doom"

Point Blank - Point Blank

2011-11-28T00:42:00.005+02:00

Year of release: 1976

Genre: Southern Rock/Hard Rock
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Free Man
02. Moving
03. Wandering
04. Bad Bees
05. That's The Law
06. Lone Star Fool
07. Distance
08. In This World

In a few words:

Sometimes I wonder why some really good bands didn't manage to make a huge success. Point Blank is a good example. They formed in 1974 and released their self-titled debut in 1976. They are from Texas and, consequently, southern rock flows in their veins. The songs are driven by the excellent dual guitar work of Randy Burns and Kim Davis. Jack O‘Daniel (vocals) gives the proper attitude in every song, while Phillip Petty (bass) and Peter Gruen (drums) keep the rhythm steady. If I could describe the whole album with one phrase, this could be: "hard rock with a southern flavor". If you were to a bar, I am sure that you would love to listen to this album (with plenty of beers of course). The band is still active, having released a studio album in 2009 - 27 years after the previous one! Fans of ZZ Top, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Blackfoot and Molly Hatchet should check the album immediately.

Myspace

Personal highlights:

"Free Man", "That's The Law" and "Distance"

Frank Gambale - The Great Explorers

2011-11-23T10:12:00.005+02:00

Year of release: 1993

Genre: Rock/Fusion/Guitar Virtuoso
Country: Australia

Tracks:
01. Frankly Speaking
02. The Final Frontier
03. The Jaguar
04. The Great Explorers
05. Duet Tuet
06. She Knows Me Well
07. Thunder Current
08. Pathfinder
09. Dawn Over The Nullarbor
10. Cruising Altitude
11. Naughty Business

In a few words:

Since I have a lot of time to present a guitar virtuoso, let me introduce you to the world of Frank Gambale, a world that is full of melody, high-level technique and lot of feelings. Having at his back Joe Satriani's touring band, "The Great Explorers" is probably more rock-oriented than his albums with Chick Corea or Vital Information. This is the fifth solo album of Gambale and is entirely instrumental. There is a lot of musical variety in the album, since there are energetic rock compositions, as well as jazzy - fusion stuff. In every song you will find a "catchy" (easy to remember) musical phrase, so I believe that the album can be appreciated even by people who are not familiar with fusion. Undoubtedly, fans of Steve Vai or Joe Satriani will definitely find this album at least interesting.

Myspace

Personal highlights:

"The Final Frontier", "The Great Explorers" and "Dawn Over The Nullarbor"

3 Years Strange Taste In Music

2011-11-04T22:23:00.002+02:00

Three years ago, with this post, I officially started this blog. To be honest, I could not imagine that three years later I would still writing on this blog. With 45.000 visitors until now I am more than happy with the progress of this blog. But, besides visitors, what I really like is to read your comments about the various albums that are presented here. So, please don't hesitate to express your opinion. Moreover, I promise to continue uploading "strange" albums wherever this is possible. As you might have guest I prefer to upload only few albums every month, because I believe that quality is better than quantity. To all of you:

Thank YOU For Your Support!!!

PS: Chantell, thank you for remind me the blog's birthday!

Kashiwa Daisuke - Program Music I

2011-10-30T19:04:00.001+02:00

Year of release: 2007

Genre: Ambient/Post Rock/Electronic/Classical
Country: Japan

Tracks:
01. Stella
02. Write Once, Run Melos

In a few words:

Two compositions = an hour of music! So, I warn you that this is a demanding album. Program Music I is the second effort of this Japanese artist and by all means is excellent. A lot of different ideas and musical genres are enclosed in these two songs, but they are so perfectly combined that the album flows like water. Piano, strings, acoustic guitar and drums are the main instruments that have been used in this album, while a lot of pads and electronic beats appeared here and there. Furthermore, there are many "melodic" details that will keep your interest throughout the album. The music has a soundtrack feeling and is quite atmospheric and somehow melancholic. There are no vocals here, but I don't think that they are necessary. For those of you who are interested in experimental music this is a highly recommended album!

Myspace

Personal highlights:

Both compositions of course!

Goblin - Roller

2011-10-20T23:32:00.001+03:00

Year of release: 1976

Genre: Italian Progressive/Symphonic Rock
Country: Italy

Tracks:
01. Roller
02. Aquaman
03. Snip-Snap
04. Il Risveglio Del Serpente (The Snake Awakens)
05. Goblin
06. Dr. Frankenstein

In a few words:

"Roller" is the second studio album of this amazing progressive band and the first non-soundtrack. The trademark of Goblin's sound is probably the keyboard work of Claudio Simonetti, who dresses the songs with these horror and mysterious sounds. The keys star in every song, while the rest of the instruments give the necessary rhythm. The following albums have been used as soundtracks for horror movies, so it is not surprising the fact that there is a dark atmosphere all over the album. Apart from symphonic rock, there are some jazz influences, as well as many funky rhythms ("Snip-Snap"). Goblin's sound could be described as a mixture of Mike Oldfield and Pink Floyd, so if you like these bands, you could probably enjoy this album.

Myspace

Personal highlights:

"Roller", "Goblin" and "Dr. Frankenstein"

Hades - Resisting Success

2011-10-14T00:24:00.002+03:00

Year of release: 1987

Genre: Thrash//Power Metal
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. The Leaders
02. On To Iliad
03. Legal Tender
04. Sweet Revenge
05. Night Stalker
06. Resist Success
07. Widows Mite (Chapter Eleven)
08. The Cross
09. Masque Of The Red Death

In a few words:

The 80's was a great decade for thrash metal! Many known bands (Slayer, Metallica, Kreator, Sodom etc.) created masterpieces, but, even less known bands released some pretty good albums, like Hades for example. "Resisting Success" is their debut album and contains an excellent mixture of thrash and U.S. power metal. There is a lot of variety in the songs (acoustic guitars, some heavy "slow" riffs and solos), which implying that this is not a typical "fast played" thrash album. Especially the riffs are sometimes really technical but they don't disturb the energy and the tension that comes out from the album. Of course, I should not forget to mention the great work of Allan Tecchio on vocals. Allan's voice goes really high, but those of you who know him from the great technical/progressive metallers Watchtower, I am sure that you will be familiar with his voice.

Myspace

Personal highlights:

"On To Iliad", "Widows Mite" and "Masque Of The Red Death"

Fabrizio Paterlini - Viaggi In Aeromobile

2011-09-26T00:41:00.003+03:00

Year of release: 2007

Genre: Piano
Country: Italy

Tracks:
01. L' Airone (The Heron)
02. Soffia La Notte (Night Breaths)
03. Passaggi (Passages)
04. Ti Parlo (Talking To You)
05. Colori (Colors)
06. Il Segreto Rivelato (The Secret Revealed)
07. Due Passi (Two Steps)
08. Torna Da Me (Get Back To Me)
09. Con Queste Mani (With These Hands)
10. Far Away From Here
11. Pensieri Confusi (Confused Thoughts)
12. Barari

In a few words:

It has been a long time since I posted a solo piano album (the last one was Forest). "Viaggi In Aeromobile" (Aircraft Trips) is the debut album of this great Italian pianist. When you will finish the first listen of the album I am sure that you will remember some of its melodies. I personally couldn't get out of my mind the melodies of " Soffia La Notte", "Colori" and "Con Queste Mani". Don't be afraid because there is no technique demonstration in this album. Just simple, beautiful melodies that have been played with a lot of feeling. Every note on the album has a reason to be there. This album was my last discovery and I am really glad that I found it. It kept me company during the nights of the previous month. If you need something relaxing to listen to then try this one. It's really beautiful!

Myspace

Personal highlights:

"All the album is excellent!"

Over The Rhine - Good Dog Bad Dog

2011-09-19T23:30:00.001+03:00

Year of release: 2000

Genre: Pop/Rock/Folk
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Latter Days
02. All I Need Is Everything
03. Etcetera Whatever
04. I Will Not Eat The Darkness
05. Faithfully Dangerous
06. The Seahorse
07. Everyman's Daughter
08. Poughkeepsie
09. Willoughby
10. It's Never Quite What It Seems
11. Happy To Be So
12. Go Down Easy

In a few words:

"Good Dog Bad Dog" was first released at 1996 as an independent album and re-released at 2000 from Back Porch. The two versions differ slightly on the number of songs that they contain ("Jack's Valentine" and "A Gospel Number" were not included in the 2000 re-release, while "It's Never Quite What It Seems" was not contained at the original release). It is the fourth studio album of the band (taking into account the first release). Anyway, "Good Dog Bad Dog" is a very beautiful pop/rock album, based on chords of acoustic guitars, the melodies of the piano and the voice of Karin Bergquist. It is an easy-listening album, suitable for listening at the small hours of day, while a feeling of "sweet melancholy" is all over the album. If you like female singers, I am sure that you will enjoy the voice of Karin, which is one of the highlights of the album.

Myspace

Personal highlights:

"All I Need Is Everything", "The Seahorse" and "It's Never Quite What It Seems"

Fifths Of Seven - Spry From Bitter Anise Folds

2011-09-07T00:19:00.002+03:00

Year of release: 2005

Genre: Classical/Folk/Post Rock
Country: Canada

Tracks:
01. Rosa Centifolia
02. Sweet Grace For Devious
03. Out From Behind The Rigid Bellows
04. Waiting
05. Coeur, Arteries And Veins
06. Echos From A Wandered Path
07. For You Alone In The Smoldering City
08. Bless Our Wandering Dreamers

In a few words:

Outside is raining. I thought that it could be a good idea to put this album on my player. So, here we have a very strange, but interesting case of album. Fifths of Seven was (?) an instrumental trio from Montreal (Canada). I wrote "was" because their site is down and MySpace has not been updated since 2007, so they probably split up. Their music is very difficult to be described or to fall into a certain musical genre. Is based on four instruments: piano, accordion, mandolin and cello. The atmosphere of the album is very nostalgic, like an old memory, buried for years. But this memory, is a kind of a bittersweet, similar to the feeling of the album. I can't find similarities to other groups that I have listened, but I believe that those who enjoyed the albums of Coda or Ashram, would enjoy and this one.

Myspace

Personal highlights:

"Rosa Centifolia", "Out From Behind The Rigid Bellows" and "Echos From A Wandered Path"

Lacrimas Profundere - Memorandum

2011-08-30T00:01:00.004+03:00

Year of release: 1999

Genre: Doom/Gothic Metal
Country: Germany

Tracks:
01. Infinity
02. Helplessness
03. ...And How To Drown In Your Arms
04. Black Swans
05. Reminiscence
06. The Crown Of Leaving
07. All Your Radiance...
08. The Embrace And The Eclipse
09. The Fate Of Equilibrium

In a few words:

Since we are leaving summer behind, I will keep last year’s tradition and I will welcome autumn with an atmospheric album. So, similar to On Thorns I Lay case, here we have a very atmospheric and depressing/melancholic album. Memorandum is probably the last album of Lacrimas Profundere before changing their sound (starting from the following Burning: A Wish). Here we have doom/gothic metal the old way: doom-y, but also melodic riffs, are combined with piano and violin melodies. The vocals are mainly brutal, while some clean and female vocals give the necessary variety to the songs. Sometimes they remind me other favorite bands, such as old Anathema and My Dying Bride but, don't be fooled: they know how to harmonize their influences with their own ideas and enriching them with pure emotions. So, let's goodbye summer with Memorandum and welcome back autumn...

Myspace
Official site

Personal highlights:

". ...And How To Drown In Your Arms", "Reminiscence" and "All Your Radiance..."

Pink Cream 69 - Sonic Dynamite

2011-08-26T23:48:00.003+03:00

Year of release: 2000

Genre: (Melodic) Hard Rock
Country: Germany

Tracks:
01. Passage To Hope
02. Seas Of Madness
03. Followed By The Moon
04. Sonic Dynamite
05. The Spirit
06. Speed Of Light
07. Waiting For The Dawn
08. Let The Thunder Reside
09. Lost In Illusions
10. Face Of An Angel
11. Shattered Prophecy
12. Spread Your Wings
13. Truth Hits Everybody (The Police Cover)

In a few words:

Did you happen to go for a short car-trip in the summer? If yes, did you enjoy the journey? If the answer in the latter question is "not so much", then, I have something for you. This album is a real dynamite - as the title says - and can transform a boring road-trip to a very enjoyable experience. Having a lots of hard rock riffs, many beautiful melodies, a very good singer, a modern and clean production, as well as many catchy choruses, this album can cheer you up in a few minutes. Apart from your car player, you can put this album to your player whenever you want something straightforward, melodic and "positive" to listen. I think that the departure of former singer was beneficial for both sides, since Andi Deris continued his career to Helloween and Pink Cream 69 found a singer (David Readman) with a great voice.

Myspace
Official site

Personal highlights:

"Seas Of Madness", "Speed Of Light" and "Lost In Illusions"

Richard Galliano - Viaggio

2011-08-13T22:53:00.001+03:00

Year of release: 1993

Genre: Jazz/Tango
Country: France

Tracks:
01. Waltz For Nicky
02. Java Indigo
03. Viaggio
04. Billie
05. Tango Pour Claude
06. Christopher's Bossa
07. Coloriage
08. Romance
09. Little Muse
10. La Liberté Est Une Fleur

In a few words:

Richard Galliano is a French accordionist and Viaggio (meaning "Trip") is his third solo album that released in 1993. If you like the smooth sound of accordion then stop here and you will not regret it. Fans of Astor Piazzola are also welcomed. In this album we have high class technique from all the musicians, a lot of beautiful melodies and of course tons of feeling. The compositions balance between jazz and tango. Apart from accordion in Viaggio you will listen and other instruments: piano, acoustic guitar, contrabass and drums. I should point out that there are no vocals in the album, but I don't think that are necessary. Last but not least, Viaggio is another favorite album for night-listening.

Myspace
Official site

Personal highlights:

"Viaggio", "Tango Pour Claude" and "Coloriage"

Blazing Eternity - A World To Drown In

2011-08-05T23:26:00.004+03:00

Year of release: 2003

Genre: Gothic Rock/Metal
Country: Denmark

Tracks:
01. Cover Me With Your Eyes
02. To Meet You In Those Dreams
03. A World To Drown In
04. Stars In July
05. (Don't) Tell The World
06. Procession
07. En Nat Bliver Det Sommer
08. Monument
09. White

In a few words:

Blazing Eternity is a Danish band from Copenhagen and "A World To Drown In" is their second and probably their last album (they have released nothing since this album). The band started as an extreme metal band, but through the years they get rid of the extreme elements from their music and they incorporated a more melodic rock-oriented sound. In this album they balance between gothic rock and metal, while they have composed a lot of beautiful melodies. The album is quite atmospheric, melancholic and emotional. The guitars shift from heavy riffs to acoustic chords progression, enhancing the emotional change that takes place through the songs. The rhythm section is good and the singer has a very nice "emotional" voice. Influences: from Finnish gothic metal bands till even Smiths. It is a very beautiful album, so give it a try...

Myspace
Last FM

Personal highlights:

"To Meet You In Those Dreams", "Stars In July" and "En Nat Bliver Det Sommer"

Richie Sambora - Stranger In This Town

2011-07-29T23:07:00.003+03:00

Year of release: 1991

Genre: (Hard) Rock/Blues
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Rest In Peace
02. Church Of Desire
03. Stranger In This Town
04. Ballad Of Youth
05. One Light Burning
06. Mr. Bluesman
07. Rosie
08. River Of Love
09. Father Time
10. The Answer

In a few words:

The guitarist of Bon Jovi released his first solo album 20 years ago. In his main band Richie is overshadowed by John. However, this is unfair if you ask my opinion. Richie is a very good guitarist with a very blues-y style. In his solo album you will discover that he has a very good voice too. The album differs from the typical anthemic hard rock style of (early) Bon Jovi. The songs balance between (hard) rock and blues, between slow and fast, between ballads and (hard) rock dynamites. Richie's style is influenced by many great guitarists, such as Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix (Richie has covered the "The Wind Cries Mary") and Eric Clapton. In fact, Clapton plays a guitar solo on Mr.Bluesman. To sum up, "Stranger In This Town" is a very good "mainstream" album that you should listen.

Myspace
Official site

Personal highlights:

"Church Of Desire", "Rosie" and "Father Time"

Richard Wright - Wet Dream

2011-07-23T23:08:00.005+03:00

Year of release: 1978

Genre: Progressive Rock/Jazz
Country: U.K.

Tracks:
01. Mediterranean C
02. Against The Odds
03. Cat Cruise
04. Summer Elegy
05. Waves
06. Holiday
07. Mad Yannis Dance
08. Drop In From the Top
09. Pink’s Song
10. Funky Deux

In a few words:

Wet Dream is the first solo album of the key-man of Pink Floyd that was released exactly 30 years before his death (15/9/1978 - he died 15/9/2008). It could easily be a forgotten/unreleased album of Pink Floyd. Although the main composers in Pink Floyd were Waters and Gilmour, Rick played an important role to their music. The following songs: A Saucerful of Secrets, Us And Them, Shine On You Crazy Diamond and Marooned couldn't be the same without Rick. So, as in his main band, here you will find great melodies - based mainly on keyboards, excellent saxophone and guitar solos, a beautiful voice and a melancholic atmosphere. Here you can enjoy Rick in all of his glory. Apart from his voice, extra credit goes to the guitarist Snowy White, who played some emotional solos with a Gilmour-ish guitar sound.

Myspace
Pink Floyd site

Personal highlights:

"Against The Odds", "Cat Cruise" and "Pink’s Song"

Indukti - S.U.S.A.R.

2011-07-17T16:21:00.004+03:00

Year of release: 2005

Genre: Experimental/Progressive Rock/Metal
Country: Poland

Tracks:
01. Freder
02. Cold Inside...I
03. No. 11812
04. Shade
05. Uluru
06. No. 11811
07. ...And Weak II

In a few words:

If you like the music of King Crimson, Tool, Porcupine Tree and Riverside, then you should listen to this album. S.U.S.A.R. is the debut album of this Polish band and by all means is excellent. It contains very interesting - experimental music: strange riffs, ethnic melodies and a dark - mysterious atmosphere is all over the album. Aside from the heavy guitar sound, the violin gives a more classical and oriental - exotic flavor to the album. All the band members are great players and they have high quality technique in their instruments. Most of the songs are instrumentals, but in few of them, the vocal lines of Mariusz Duda reminds me his own great band (Riverside), although they are more experimental.

Myspace
Official site

Personal highlights:

"Freder", "No. 11812" and "Shade"

Coda - Calling Mission Mu

2011-07-10T23:12:00.006+03:00

Year of release: 2006

Genre: Neoclassical/Experimental
Country: Australia

Tracks:
01. Marine
02. Superpod
03. Palms Of Shangrila
04. Rocking Horse
05. Miss Bliss
06. Shoes, Your Rhythm
07. Loveliner
08. Past The Moon
09. Secret Music
10. Curtain Fall

In a few words:

This album was a pleasant surprise for me. Let's start with the typical part: CODA is an Australian ensemble that is miles away from the typical definition of string ensemble. Starting from the classical strings, they have enrich their music with electronic beats, pop melodies and post rock sounds, resulting in something really beautiful and innovative. It is very difficult to describe their music, which is a mix of classical, electronic, pop and rock music. All these different music genres are harmonically bonded. The album is instrumental and has a cinematic atmosphere. CODA's music - even without words - is able to express powerful emotions. I will stop describing the album, and I will just tell you this: Give it a chance!

Myspace

Personal highlights:

"It's too hard to choose a song. All of them are equally great!"

Perry Blake - Perry Blake

2011-06-28T00:19:00.006+03:00

Year of release: 1998

Genre: Trip Hop/Alternative
Country: Ireland

Tracks:
01. Little Boys And Little Girls
02. The Hunchback Of San Francisco
03. 1971
04. Anouska
05. Broken Statue
06. Genevieve
07. So Long
08. Naked Man
09. Willows By The Radio
10. Weeping Tree
11. House In The Clouds

In a few words:

Perry Blake is a very talented singer and songwriter. His self-titled album was released at 1998 and was quite successful. Having a music style that starts from trip-hop and goes to ambient, alternative and even folk music, the album contains very interesting and experimental music. His voice fits excellent to the atmosphere of the songs. Similar singers that come to my mind are Leonard Cohen, Scott Walker, and David Sylvian. The album is emotional, dark and melancholic. Furthermore, the music sometimes reminds soundtrack. That's why is not surprising the fact that his music has been used to Presque rien (2000) and Trois Petites Filles (2004) films. Another good album for night-listening is here.

Myspace
Official site

Personal highlights:

"Little Boys And Little Girls", "Anouska" and "Weeping Tree"

Ashram - Shining Silver Skies

2011-06-11T22:29:00.003+03:00

Year of release: 2006

Genre: Neoclassical/Darkwave
Country: Italy

Tracks:
01. 5 Steps…
02. Maria And The Violin’s String
03. Sweet Autumn (Part Ii)
04. Lullaby
05. Il Mostro
06. All’imbrunire
07. Last Kiss
08. Elizabeth
09. For Each And Every Child
10. Tango Para Mi Padre Y Marialuna
11. Lady
12. Shining Silver Skies
13. Rose And Air
14. Ultimo Carillon

In a few words:

What a wonderful album! Shining Silver Skies is the second studio album of this excellent band called Ashram. Here we have a piano, a violin, a cello, an acoustic guitar and a beautiful voice. The keyword for this album is "atmosphere": dark, peaceful and quite emotional. If a classical-influenced string ensemble was experimenting with piano and vocals probably this kind of music could be composed. Remarkable melodies all over the album. The band is not limited on studio only, but also performs a lot of live shows every year. I can find some similarities with Subaudition, but Ashram are less affected from folk music. If you like classical music or you just simply want something calm and relaxing to listen to, this album is for you.

Myspace
Official site

Personal highlights:

"All of it!"

Up again...

2011-06-01T23:40:00.001+03:00

Hello everyone and sorry for interrupting again. Fortunately, during the previous days I manage to recover all the deleted files from rapishare. So, the files of this blog are half on rapidshare and half on megaupload.

However, if you find any file that is deleted, leave a comment either at the post or at the shoutbox. I will try to fix it as soon as I can.

Within next days I will present new stuff, so be patient.

Thank you for your support!

Damn you Rapidshare!

2011-05-17T22:09:00.001+03:00

Hi everyone and sorry for stopping the ordinary flow of the blog. Unfortunately today was probably the worst day from the beginning of this blog. Why? Because I sadly found that almost half of my uploads have been deleted by Rapidshare. Within the next days I will try to re-upload all the deleted files at Megaupload. So, please be patient until I recover all the deleted stuff.

I am really sorry for the inconvenience but was not my fault!

Leviathan - Scoring The Chapters

2011-05-13T21:17:00.005+03:00

Year of release: 1997

Genre: Progressive Metal
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Salvation
02. Friends Imaginary
03. Paying The Toll
04. The Door
05. J. Christopher's Haunting
06. If These Walls Could Talk
07. All Sins Returned
08. Scar Barrow's Fare
09. The Last King Of The Highlands
10. Born Unto (But Don't Belong to Me)
11. Leftist Out
12. Turning Up Broken
13. Failing Avalon
14. Apologies Wanting To Make Good
15. Legacy Departing

In a few words:

Another underrated band is presented here. The third album of this American band is a masterpiece of technical (but also lyrical) progressive metal. This album is an ideal mix of two progressive sides: the "emotional side", with groups like Fates Warning and Queensryche and the "technical side" with bands like Dream Theater and Rush. The result is a unique sound, quite dark, but also very emotional. To the above description, add a great voice and some interesting lyrics and you have an idea of how the album sounds. There are a lot of intros and interludes that creating a continuity in the album flow, that's why I suggest you to listen to it as a whole. The band broke up at 1998, but almost 10 years later they re-united and earlier this year they released their fourth album called "At Long Last, Progress Stopped To Follow".

Myspace
Official site

Encyclopaedia Metallum
Youtube

Personal highlights:

"If These Walls Could Talk", "Turning Up Broken" and "Legacy Departing"

Neon Pearl - Recordings

2011-04-29T23:22:00.008+03:00

Year of release: 1967 (released 2004)

Genre: Psychedelic/Folk Rock
Country: U.K.

Tracks:
01. What You See
02. Dream Scream
03. Out Of Sight
04. Just Another Day
05. Forever
06. Going With The Flow
07. Urban Ways
08. Going Back
09. Dream
10.Nothing To Say

In a few words:

Now we will go back to the 60's, the golden decade of psychedelic rock. Neon Pearl was the first band of Peter Dunton, who is better known from the other bands that he played, (Please, T2 and The Flies). These unreleased demos were recorded back in 1967 and they released at 2004, only...37 years later! So, drifting guitar work and melodic vocal harmonies make these songs an interesting and unique piece of psychedelic rock history. Apart from the trippy atmosphere, there are a lot of folk (and some garage) elements in the songs. The original LP is rare and consequently, difficult to find. I always enjoy to listen to this kind of music during night, so I am suggesting you to do the same...

Wikipedia
Youtube

Personal highlights:
"Out Of Sight", "Urban Ways" and "Dream"

Hawk - Hawk

2011-04-29T22:03:00.009+03:00

Year of release: 1985

Genre: Heavy Metal
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Tell The Truth
02. Fades So Fast
03. Into The Sky
04. Victims
05. Witches Burning
06. Battle Zone
07. The Dream
08. Rules The Night
09. Can't Fall In Love
10. Perfect Day

In a few words:

A lot of underground heavy metal bands during 80's released very good albums. Hawk was one of them. Although guitarist Doug Marks is known for his instructional guitar videos, drummer Matt Sorum went to Guns 'N' Roses and the former drummer Scott Travis went to Judas Priest, few people are aware of this album. Unfortunately, after releasing their self-titled album the band split-up. So, what's the buzz? The album contains guitar riffs and melodies that stick to your mind. There are also plenty catchy refrains that you will easily remember. In short, here we have well-written songs of melodic heavy metal. Nothing more, nothing less. So, if you like bands like Fifth Angel, then give them a try.

Personal highlights:
"Tell The Truth", "Battle Zone" and " Perfect Day"

Wolf Hoffmann - Classical

2011-03-30T23:39:00.012+03:00

Year of release: 1997

Genre: Classical/Blues/Guitar Virtuoso
Country: Germany

Tracks:
01. Prelude
02. In The Hall Of The Mountain King (Grieg cover)
03. Habanera (Bizet cover)
04. Arabian Dance (Tchaikovsky cover)
05. The Moldau (Smetana cover)
06. Bolero (Ravel cover)
07. Blues For Elise (Beethoven cover)
08. Aragonaise (Bizet cover)
09. Solveig's Song (Grieg cover)
10. Western Sky
11. Pomp And Circumstance (Elgar cover)

In a few words:

Wolf Hoffmann is widely known from his great heavy metal band - Accept. Wolf also loves classical music. So, in his first solo album he decided to cover his favorite classical compositions. The result is really amazing! All the well known classical compositions are transformed to something new, but really awesome. Classical music goes rock/hard rock/blues/even heavy metal. The guitar alternates from great acoustic parts to catchy heavy riffs, from superb melodies to mind-blowing solos. A blues feeling is all over the album which fits great with the songs. If you like the original classical compositions I am sure that you will find Wolf's aspect at least interesting. You can simple listen to this blues version of For Elise and you will be pleasantly surprised!

Accept Site
Youtube

Personal highlights:
"The Moldau", "Blues For Elise" and "Pomp And Circumstance"

Roy Buchanan - Second Album

2011-03-23T22:34:00.008+02:00

Year of release: 1973

Genre: Blues
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Filthy Teddy
02. After Hours (Avery Parrish/Erskine Hawkins)
03. Five String Blues
04. Thank You Lord
05. Treat Her Right (Roy Head)
06. I Won't Tell You No Lies
07. Tribute To Elmore James
08. She Once Lived Here (Autry Inman)

In a few words:

Another great blues-man is presented here. A great guitar player that has influenced many guitarist (Gary Moore was one of them). His playing is exceptional with a lot of phrases in questioning - answering style. Even without words you can easily distinguish a dialog between the various guitar phrases. Although he has an excellent technique, his playing is quite emotional and with a lot of feeling. Furthermore, he has a very good voice and a classic blues-style way of singing. Apart from Roy's compositions, the album contains three excellent covers, with "After Hours" being exquisitely performed. If you like the blues I am sure that you will love this album. It's a classic blues masterpiece.

Myspace (Tribute page)
Tribute Site
Youtube

Personal highlights:
"Filthy Teddy", "Five String Blues" and "I Won't Tell You No Lies"

My 3 Most Listened Albums Of 2010 Part 3

2011-02-28T21:17:00.011+02:00

And finally here is the third (and last) part of my most listened albums of 2010... I hope to enjoy all of them... ;-)

Year of release: 2010

Genre: Progressive Metal
Country: Sweden

Tracks:
01. Wiseman
02. Alley Cat
03. The Angelmaker
04. King of Whitewater
05. Long Way Home
06. Move on Through
07. The Great Escape:
- I - ...And the Earth Wept
- II - Poisoned Land (instrumental)
- III - Leaving Home
- IV - Take-off
- V - A Turn for the Worse
- VI - A New Balance
- VII - Death of the Goddesses
- VIII - The Age of Confusion: Despair
- IX - The Age of Confusion: Lust
- X - The Age of Confusion: Reason
- XI - The Aftermath
- XII - Dining on Ashes
- XIII - The Curtain Falls

In a few words:

I am listening to progressive metal a lot of years. As the years passes by it is more and more difficult to find something to attract my interest. Last year I first listened to this Swedish band and I really stuck on them. They play progressive but with the "traditional way" (although this sounds contradictory), which means: long compositions, high class technique (on instruments playing), a lot of riffs/solos in every song, awesome melodies, strange time signatures etc. They have also a great singer. One main advantage of this band is that all the songs have many catchy melodies that make the listening much more attractive to non-progressive fans. The album has a lot of variety: from heavy songs ("Alley Cat"), to mellow ballads ("Long Way Home") and epic masterpieces (self-title). The title track is a concept song based on the poems "Aniara" by Swedish Nobel laureate Harry Martinson, that deals with the tragedy of a space ship. All in all, if you like bands such as Symphony X, Shadow Gallery or Dream Theater you will definitely enjoy this album.

Personal highlights:
"Alley Cat", "Long Way Home" and "The Great Escape"

My 3 Most Listened Albums Of 2010 Part 2

2011-02-27T23:54:00.006+02:00

Here I will present the second album that was released during 2010 and have spun many times in my player. Tomorrow you will find it out... ;-)

Year of release: 2010

Genre: Post Rock/Alternative
Country: Scotland

Tracks:
01. Movie Screens
02. Century
03. Bright Lights Will Harm No-One
04. Nautical Song
05. My Radio Star
06. Half Horizon
07. War Pigeon
08. Fog Sky Nun
09. 17
10. Stalking Moon

In a few words:

Eleven Return And Revert is the debut album of this Scottish band and without doubt is excellent! The band at a the moment is consisted of only two girls (Elizabeth Heaton and Rowan Burn). The other three members have left the band in order to continue their studies. As you might have guessed, the band's members are very young, that's why is surprising the fact that the compositions are quite mature. Most of the songs are built-up progressively upon a guitar or piano idea/melody. One really remarkable feature of this album is the voice of Elizabeth, who dresses the songs with a lot of feeling. It is a trippy album, quite atmospheric and melancholic. It was another "instant classic" to my ears. You will give it a try?

Personal highlights:
"Movie Screens", "Nautical Song" and "Stalking Moon"

My 3 Most Listened Albums Of 2010 Part 1

2011-02-26T22:36:00.009+02:00

For the end of February, I decided to do something different. On Monday you will find on this post an album that I have listened too many times during 2010. The reason for doing this is that some artists should receive people attention's on time - not after years, especially when they have released excellent albums. So, be patient and on Monday the mystery will be revealed... ;-)

Year of release: 2010

Genre: Ambient/Darkwave
Country: U.K.

Tracks:
01. Babylon
02. The Bogus Man
03. Wintersun
04. Utopia
05. Inferno
06. This Boy
07. The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea
08. Crescent

In a few words:

This album was a suggestion from my friend Michman (at the shoutbox) - thanks buddy - which I love it from the first listen. Ark is the second solo album of Brendan Perry, the male half of Dead Can Dance. I think that he put some of the atmosphere of the Dead Can Dance's sound here. However, if you are searching for eastern melodies, mysterious instruments etc you will be probably disappointed - with the exception of first track "Babylon" (which was initially a DCD's song with the title "Saffron" - they played it at their 2005 tour). Mr. Perry follows a more electronic approach to his personal album, with many levels of synthesizers and various drum beats. In my opinion fans of Schiller will enjoy this album and probably all of you that you are looking for something relaxing to listen to.

Personal highlights:
"The Bogus Man", "Utopia" and "Crescent"

R.I.P. Gary

2011-02-24T23:26:00.017+02:00

Earlier this month, one of the greatest rock/blues guitarist of all time passed away. It was a very sad surprise to inform that one of my favorite guitarists will no longer play his music. So, why we should remember Gary? Because apart from his technique, his playing had "tons of passion". He played almost everything in his career: progressive/psychedelic rock (Skid Row, Colosseum II), hard rock (Thin Lizzy, solo), pop (solo) and of course his biggest love: blues (BBM, solo), with quite success. Furthermore, something that is not mention very often is his vocal abilities, which were quite remarkable. If one word could describe his music, this would be "feeling".

As a tribute, I decided to upload Corridors Of Power, because it combines two of my favorites sides of Gary, the "hard" one and the "blue" one.

Goodbye Gary.... Empty rooms are everywhere...

Year of release: 1982

Genre: Hard Rock/ Blues
Country: Ireland

Tracks:
01. Don’t Take Me For A Loser
02. Always Gonna Love You
03. Wishing Well
04. Gonna Break My Heart Again
05. Falling In Love With You
06. End Of The World
07. Rockin’ Every Night
08. Cold Hearted
09. I Can’t Wait Until Tomorrow

In a few words:

I really believe that deep inside, Gary was a blues-man. Even when he composed all these excellent hard rock/metal albums, something in his playing made me think that he just plays hard rock but with a different way - with a blues feeling. Moreover, almost in every album he included a soft song, something like a blues ballad, in which his blues-oriented playing is more than obvious. So, here we have hard rock dynamites (like "Rockin’ Every Night"), "crying" ballads (like "Always Gonna Love You") and "shredding" songs (like "End Of The World" - especially the intro). That's the way we should remember him...

Official site
Youtube

Personal highlights:
Classic album, classic songs all of them...

Azam Ali - Elysium For The Brave

2011-01-31T21:36:00.012+02:00

Year of release: 2006

Genre: World Music/Ethnic/Darkwave
Country: Iran

Tracks:
01. Endless Reverie
02. Spring Arrives
03. In Other Worlds
04. Abode
05. Forty One Ways
06. The Tryst
07. From Heaven To Dust
08. I Am A Stranger In This World
09. In This Divide

In a few words:

This album is my last discovery. It spins almost every night at my player. Imagine a more "eastern" version of Loreena McKennitt and Dead Can Dance. Add some ethnic instruments and some electronic beats and you will have an idea of the music. So, what about the singer? Again, the two similar voices that come to my mind are Loreena McKennitt and Lisa Gerrard. "Elysium..." is the second solo album of this great Iranian singer. An album that has beautiful melodies, ethnic rhythms, dark/mysterious atmosphere and a great voice. Although she is not a very popular artist she has collaborated with Serj Tankian, Dredg and others. In general, this album is an excellent companion for night listening.

Personal highlights:
"Endless Reverie", "Spring Arrives" and "I Am A Stranger In This World"

Oriental Wind - Oriental Wind

2011-01-24T22:49:00.008+02:00

Year of release: 1977

Genre: Folk/Jazz/Fusion
Country: Turkey

Tracks:
01. Tamara Delihorn
02. Fidayda
03. Les Noto
04. Dere Geliyor Dere
05. Sari Kiz

In a few words:

An almost forgotten album is presented here. This Turkish band combines with a unique way folk and oriental melodies, with jazzy sounds and strange beats (9/8 and 7/8). Various rare instruments appear throughout these five instrumental songs (such as berimbau and tavil) enhancing the exotic atmosphere. I believe that people who live around the Mediterranean sea will find some of the melodies familiar, since they have a traditional feeling. Okay Temiz - whose name appears at the album cover - is an Ethno-jazz/fusion percussionist, very talented and probably one of the most important fusion and jazz artist from Turkey. So, if you like to listen exotic music with an East flavor give this album a try.

Okay Temiz Site
Youtube

Personal highlights:
"Tamara Delihorn", "Les Noto" and "Sari Kiz"

Strange Taste In Music - 2010 Collection

2011-01-10T22:40:00.003+02:00

Year of release: 2011

Genre: Various
Country: All over the world

Tracks:
01. 65daysofstatic - Come To Me
02. Accept - The Abyss
03. Agalloch - The Watcher's Monolith
04. Agrypnie - 16-485 - Brucke Aus Glas
05. Alcest - Percées De Lumière
06. Allen's Hand - Nostalgia
07. Anathema - Dreaming Light
08. Armik - Besos
09. As The Stars Fall - Some Tears Can Never Dry
10. Aspera - Ripples
11. Avenged Sevenfold - Buried Alive
12. Black Country Communion - Down Again
13. Cicada - The Stray Cat In Zhuwei
14. Crippled Black Phoenix - Of A Lifetime
15. Dark Tranquillity - Her Silent Language
16. Dirty Granny Tales - Son's Redicule
17. Domenico Curcio - Papillon
18. Electric Litany - Tear
19. Electric Swan - Crossing The Line
20. Emancipator - Kamakura
21. Enforcer - Katana
22. Foxtail Somersault - Raven
23. Foxy Shazam - Wanna-be Angel
24. Frames - The Beginning
25. Gazpacho - Will To Live
26. Giant - Promise Land
27. Innerwish - Burning Desires
28. Island - Harbour
29. Janelle Monáe - Neon Valley Street
30. Joe Bonamassa - When The Fire Hits The Sea
31. Kiske/Somerville - A Thousand Suns
32. Midas Fall - Movie Screens
33. My Autumn Empire - The Playing Fields
34. My Sleeping Karma - Tamas
35. Nevermore - She Comes In Colors
36. Orphaned Land - The Path Part 2 - The Pilgrimage To Or Shalem
37. Pain Of Salvation - She Likes To Hide
38. Poisonblack - The Last Song
39. Reckless Love - Sex
40. Redhooker - Bedside
41. Rotting Christ - Noctis Era
42. Sabbath Assembly - Hymn Of Consecration
43. Scorpions - The Best Is Yet To Come
44. Seventh Wonder - Long Way Home
45. Slash Feat. Fergie - Beautiful Dangerous
46. Sparrow - Now! Restarting! After 11 Months
47. The Best Pessimist - Lights Of Your Innocence
48. The Gaslight Anthem - Old Haunts
49. Volbeat - Heaven Nor Hell
50. Wino - Hold On Love

Part I Part II Part III

In a few words:

First of all, Happy New Year to all of you. I suppose that you have seen a lot of best of lists in various magazines, sites and blogs. Here I decided to do something different. In this three-part collection I gathered 50 songs that for various reasons attracted my interest throughout the previous year. These 50 songs are just a personal collection from various albums that I have listened during 2010. There is a lot of variety among the songs, so I hope that it will be an interesting listening.

Andy Timmons Band - Resolution

2010-12-19T22:51:00.009+02:00

Year of release: 2006

Genre: Instrumental Rock/Guitar Virtuoso
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Deliver Us
02. Helipad
03. Ghost Of You
04. Resolution
05. Redemption
06. Lydia
07. Gone (9/11/01)
08. Move On
09. Beware Dark Days
10. The Prayer/The Answer
11. Headed For The Ditch (Bonus track)

In a few words:

A lot of time has past since I proposed a guitar-oriented album. So, here we have the collaboration of Andy Timmons, Mike Daane (on bass) and Mitch Marine (on drums). Due to his previous experience with Danger Danger, Andy knows how to write catchy melodies and easy to remember songs, even without words. He is a complete musician and songwriter, while the rhythm section successfully supports every guitar note. Similar guitarists that I can think of are Stevie Vai and Joe Satriani - but don't be confused, Andy has his own style, which is quite emotional and with good guitar phrasing. The band's technique is beyond criticism, and it serves the compositions - not the opposite. There is a lot of variety in the songs, from hard rock/metal instrumentals to more jazzy songs, which expanding the listener's attention.

Personal highlights:
"Deliver Us", "Resolution" and "Gone (9/11/01)"

2 Years Strange Taste In Music

2010-11-14T23:42:00.006+02:00

At the 4th of November, this blog accomplished 2 years of "web existence". I have read some comments at my posts or at the chat box and I am really glad that some of you have discovered interesting music from this blog. This means that the main purpose of this blog is succeeded. So, I promise to continue posting "strange" albums when I will have time. Furthermore, I would like to appreciate all of you for your support. I always like to to read your opinion about the albums presented here.

Thank YOU!!!

Rykarda Parasol - Our Hearts First Meet

2010-11-14T23:02:00.006+02:00

Year of release: 2006

Genre: Folk/Dark Rock
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Good Sick
02. Hannah Leah
03. Night On Red River
04. Lullaby For Blacktail
05. Weeding Time
06. Arrival, A Rival
07. Candy Gold
08. Good Fall
09. How Does A Woman Fall?
10. En Route
11. Lonesome Place
12. Texas Midnight Radio
13. Weeding
14. Good Sick II
15. Janis, Don't Go Back

In a few words:

Rykarda Parasol is an American artist who composes some very beautiful folk/rock songs. "Our Hearts First Meet" is her debut album, which was released at 2006. All the songs have a dark atmosphere, while her music is very difficult to be fallen into a specific genre. So, in order to describe her music I would like to refer some similar artists: Nick Cave, Madrugada, Johnny Cash, Velvet Underground and P.J. Harvey could be some of her influences. Her voice is quite good, with a lot of feeling. Most of the lyrics are taken from her personal life. Acoustic guitars and piano are the instruments that are mostly used in her songs, creating emotional melodies that go directly to the listener's heart. Recommended!

Personal highlights:
"Lullaby For Blacktail", "Candy Gold" and "Weeding"

SRV - Couldn't Stand The Weather

2010-10-27T20:09:00.007+03:00

Year of release: 1984

Genre: Blues
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:

01. Scuttle Buttin'
02. Couldn't Stand The Weather
03. The Things (That) I Used To Do
04. Voodoo Child (Slight Return)
05. Cold Shot
06. Tin Pay Alley
07. Honey Bee
08. Stang's Swang

In a few words:

Do you like blues? If the answer is yes, then I am sure that you know this guy. If not, let me introduce you to a great blues-man, the "white" Hendrix - and this is not a sacrilege. Listen to the Voodoo Child cover and see Stevie's aspect for this great song. Apart from his technique, the main thing that anyone can notice while listening to this is album is that SVR plays from his heart, having his Fender Stratocaster as the vehicle that lead us to the stratosphere. Having at his back a good rhythm section, Stevie unleashes his riffs and solos repeatedly. I pick this album to present (from his short discography) because it introduced me to his significant playing. I am sure that whichever album you choose to listen first, you will enjoy it.

Personal highlights:
"Couldn't Stand The Weather", "Voodoo Child" and "Tin Pay Alley"

Ozric Tentacles - Become The Other

2010-10-12T22:21:00.011+03:00

Year of release: 1995

Genre: Progressive/Space Rock/Electronic
Country: U.K.

Tracks:

01. Cat DNA
02. Ahu Belahu
03. Ghedengi
04. Wob Glass
05. Neurochasm
06. Become The Other
07. Vibuthi
08. Plurnstyle

In a few words:

Ozric Tentacles is a very interesting band and always at the bounds of underground. It is active for more than 25 years (they started at 1984) and they have released several albums. The band plays something between progressive and psychedelic/space rock with electronic elements. There is a lot of virtuosity in instruments' playing (especially at the guitars) and a middle east "air" is all over the songs. Needles to say that this is not an easy-going album and there is no voice here - only instrumental songs. I think that multiple listens can reveal the flow of ideas that exist in this album. In general, if you are curious about how it might sound a collaboration among Hawkwind, Steve Vai and maybe In The Labyrinth, try this band.

Personal highlights:
"Ghedengi", "Neurochasm" and "Vibuthi"

Camel - Stationary Traveller

2010-09-30T22:27:00.010+03:00

Year of release: 1984

Genre: Progressive/Art Rock/Pop
Country: U.K.

Tracks:

01. Pressure Points
02. Refugee
03. Vopos
04. Cloak and Dagger Man
05. Stationary Traveler
06. West Berlin
07. Fingertips
08. Missing
09. After Words
10. Long Goodbyes

In a few words:

Another favorite album is presented here. Like all the other big progressive bands (Yes, Genesis, Jethro Tull and others) that have created masterpieces during 70's, at 80's, Camel's sound become more "mainstream". The use of keyboards become more intense and the drums have lost their rock sound. So although this album is more pop-ish than their 70's releases, it is a very beautiful album. What I really like on this album is the fantastic guitar work of the main-man Andrew Latimer (who fortunately recovered from his illness - cancer) and the keyboards sound. The album is concept and deals with the refugees from East Germany that tried to cross the Berlin Wall into West Berlin. A nice album that could appreciated in the hours of day that you want to listen something relaxing.

Personal highlights:
"Refugee", "West Berlin" and "Long Goodbyes"

Electric Swan - Electric Swan

2010-09-19T23:19:00.011+03:00

Year of release: 2008

Genre: Hard Rock/Psychedelic Rock
Country: Italy

Tracks:
01. In The Hush Of Daze
02. Electric Swan
03. Your Love Been So Good To Me
04. Eleventh Angel
05. Beyond The Rising Sun
06. Calibro
07. Crossing The Line
08. Redwitch
09. Teaser (Tommy Bolin Cover)
10. Apollo's Dream
11. Creeping Death (Metallica Cover)

In a few words:

Electric Swan is the project of Lucio Calegari guitarist of Wicked Minds. Good "retro" hard rock with a lot of psychedelic and some progressive influences, that's the case here. An album that could easily have been released at early 70's and make success. The guitar work is quite remarkable with a lot of riffs and solos, the keys fill the sound appropriately and the rhythm section is robust. The vocals fit in with the music, giving the necessary 70's feeling to the songs. The album contains also two covers, which have been adopted to the style of the band. Especially the "Creeping Death" from a thrash anthem has become a hard rock dynamite. All in all, if you like 70's hard rock and bands like UFO, Deep Purple, Jimi Hendrix, Frank Marino etc, you will enjoy it.

Myspace
Youtube

Personal highlights:
"Electric Swan", "Beyond The Rising Sun" and "Apollo's Dream"

On Thorns I Lay - Crystal Tears

2010-08-31T22:45:00.010+03:00

Year of release: 1999

Genre: Atmospheric Rock/Gothic Metal
Country: Greece

Tracks:
01. Crystal Tears
02. My Angel
03. Obsession
04. Crystal Tears II (Loosing Her)
05. Ophelia
06. Eden
07. Enigma
08. Midnight Falling
09. All Is Silent
10. Feelings

In a few words:

Since we are entering autumn, I thought that it could be a good idea to post something melancholic and atmospheric. On Thorns I Lay is a Greek band that plays something between Katatonia and Anathema (click here and here to listen). I believe that probably Crystal Tears is their masterpiece. Here they combining the "dry" guitar sound, with the "warm" sound of piano and cello, the rhythmic riffs with the beautiful melodies and the male with female vocals, creating a unique atmosphere. The songs have a lot of variety but the album "flows" easily as a whole. I first listened to this album back at 2000 and is one of my favorite atmospheric albums of all time. Highly recommended!

Myspace
Wikipedia
Youtube

Personal highlights:
"The entire album!"

Rökkurró - Það Kólnar I Kvöld...

2010-08-22T23:20:00.010+03:00

Year of release: 2007

Genre: Folk/Experimental
Country: Iceland

Tracks:
01. Hún
02. Í Sjávarháska
03. Ringulreið
04. Ferðalangurinn
05. Hetjan á Fjallinu
06. Heiðskýr Heimsendir
07. Allt Gullið
08. Í Blíðu Stríði
09. Dagur þrjú
10. Ljósglæta

In a few words:

Rökkurró is a folk band from Iceland and Það Kólnar I Kvöld (which means "It Gets Colder Tonight") is their debut album that was released at 2007. Their music could be described as folk with some post rock influences. Acoustic guitar, accordion, cello and violin are the main instruments that are used in their songs. All the songs have very beautiful melodies and very good female vocals. The album has a dark, and melancholic, atmosphere, which is enhanced from the use of their Icelandic language. Another way to describe this album is: "A more folk-ish version of Sigur Ros (see here for details), but without their electric outbreaks".

Personal highlights:
"Hún", "Ferðalangurinn" and "Í Blíðu Stríði"

Black Symphony - Tears Of Blood

2010-08-16T21:08:00.010+03:00

Year of release: 2001

Genre: Progressive/Power Metal
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Tears Of Blood
02. It Remains A Mystery
03. Take Me Down
04. I Am Hate
05. Death
06. Burned
07. Over And Over
08. Tears Of Blood (Part II)
09. Forgive Me
10. Left In Confusion
11. Into The Dark
12. The Black Symphony (Part II)

In a few words:

Black Symphony is a prog/power band from USA. They have released four albums (until now) and Tears Of Blood is their second effort. Although the band still remains within the bounds of the underground, with this album they should have done the breakthrough. Why? Because they created a very interesting album, with heavy guitars, catchy riffs and strong, as well as easy-to-remember refrains. Furthermore, they gave emphasis to the melody of each song, resulting in a album that is easy to be listen, even by a non-progressive fan. A similar band that appeared in this blog is Evergrey (see here for details). Lastly, the album is a concept about God's existence. Please, give them a try, they deserve it!

Personal highlights:
" It Remains A Mystery", "Over And Over" and "The Black Symphony (Part II)"

The Hellacopters - High Visibility

2010-08-04T20:57:00.012+03:00

Year of release: 2001

Genre: Rock 'N Roll/ Garage Rock
Country: Sweden

Tracks:
01. Hopeless Case Of A Kid In Denial
02. Baby Borderline
03. Sometimes I Don't Know
04. Toys And Flavors
05. You're Too Good (To Me Baby)
06. Throw Away Heroes
07. No Song Unheard
08. Truckloads Of Nothin'
09. A Heart Without Home
10. No One's Gonna Do It For You
11. I Wanna Touch
12. Hurtin' Time
13. Envious

In a few words:

Having created the half Swedish death metal sound with Entombed (see here for details), Nicke Andersson decided to change the music he played. He made a band in order to play pure rock 'n roll and from drummer he become guitarist and vocalist. He succeed? The answer is easily yes. So, High Visibility is the fourth studio album of Hellacopters and is a real dynamite of feel-good energy. Put it to your car CD player and try to drive - the perfect soundtrack for a car walk. Great guitar riffs and solos, a good voice and 13 songs that will cheer you up. The rock 'n roll should be played this way!

Personal highlights:
"Baby Borderline", "Toys And Flavors" and "I Wanna Touch"

George Winston - Forest

2010-07-19T21:32:00.017+03:00

Year of release: 1994

Genre: Piano
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Tamarack Pines
02. Forbidden Forest
03. Troubador
04. The Cradle
05. Cloudy This Morning
06. Last Lullaby Here
07. Mon Enfant (My Child)
08. Returning
09. Graceful Ghost
10. Walking in the Air
11. Building the Snowman
12. The Snowman's Music Box Dance
13. Love Song to a Ballerina
14. Lights in the Sky
15. Japanese Music Box (Itsuki No Komoriuta)
16. Night Sky

In a few words:...

Similar to the Jarrett case (see here for details), here we have the sixth solo piano album by the pianist George Winston. As you might expect, there is no other instrument here, just a piano. And believe me, there is no need for something else. Beautiful melodies, emotional playing and a melancholic feeling is all over the album. Winston's playing has the charisma to makes you relax. He doesn't emphasizes on technique, but only on emotions. This album is another personal favorite for night listening. After a busy day (at work/at school or whatever), put it to your player, sit down and leave the rest to Mr. Winston. :-)

Personal highlights:
"All of it!"

Oh Johnny...

2010-07-14T20:07:00.008+03:00

Year of release: 2000

Genre: Country/Folk
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. I Wont Back Down (Original by Tom Perry)
02. Solitary Man (Original by Neil Diamond)
03. That Lucky Old Sun (Original by Frankie Laine)
04. One (Original by U2)
05. Nobody (Original by Egbert Williams)
06. I See A Darkness (Original by Will Oldham)
07. The Mercy Seat (Original by Nick Cave)
08. Would You Lay With Me (In A Field Of Stone) (Original by Tanya Tucker)
09. Field Of Diamonds
10. Before My Time
11. Country Trash
12. Mary Of The Wild Moor (Original by The Louvin Brothers)
13. I'm Leavin' Now
14. Wayfaring Stranger (Traditional)

In a few words:

What a voice! Heavy as a rock, dark as the night but also emotive and beautiful. This is Johnny Cash. A "real rock star". This album can be considered as a cover album, since most of the songs are covers. Two guitars and the deep emotive voice of Johnny constitute the main characteristics of this album. The covers are so great that you hardly believe that they are cover songs, but original compositions. Favorite cover: I could easily peak "I See A Darkness" for its pessimistic feeling, dark atmosphere and its lyrics. Please, don't listen to this album when you are in bad mood. It can makes you collapse...

Personal highlights:

"All this dark beauty!"

Without Any Doubt!

2010-07-14T20:02:00.010+03:00

Year of release: 1995

Genre: Alternative/Ska/Pop
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Spiderwebs
02. Excuse Me Mr.
03. Just A Girl
04. Happy Now?
05. Different People
06. Hey You
07. The Climb
08. Sixteen
09. Sunday Morning
10. Don't Speak
11. You Can Do It
12. World Go 'Round
13. End It On This
14. Tragic Kingdom

In a few words:...

I always thought that No Doubt made a huge success due to their hit singles, like "Don't Speak" that is included here. However, when I first listened to this album I was very surprised and impressed from their songwriting. Although "Don't Speak" - probably their most known song - is a very good (power) ballad, the rest songs have nothing to do with it. So, we have a punk altitude in guitars, some wind instruments (like trumpet) that implying ska influences and a crazy singer with a very good voice. There is a musical variety in the songs, which makes them interesting plus a positive feeling. The album is quite enjoyable this season.

Personal highlights:
"Excuse Me Mr.", "Sixteen" and "Sunday Morning"

Winter Madness

2010-06-28T22:52:00.018+03:00

Year of release: 2004

Genre:Power/Melodic Black Metal
Country: Finland

Tracks:
01. Beyond The Dark Sun
02. Winter Madness
03. Sleeping Stars
04. Battle Against Time
05. Death and the Healing
06. Starchild
07. Beautiful Death
08. Sadness and Hate

In a few words:

Here is an album that spins around my player almost every day Melodic black metal is the case here. So, we have a lot of riffs and blastbeats but also a lot of melody. Without doubt in some tracks you could easily believe that you are listening to a power metal rather than a black metal band, since there are a lot of power/neo-classical metal elements in their music. The vocals are extreme in general, with some clean -almost narrative- parts. Wintersun is the side project of Jari Mäenpää (ex member of Ensiferum), who has composed and played almost everything in this album. A similar band that I can think of is Children of Boddom...Give them a try!

Personal highlights:
"Beyond The Dark Sun", "Battle Against Time" and " Starchild"

Craig Armstrong - The Space Between Us

2010-06-23T23:01:00.015+03:00

Year of release: 1998

Genre: Classical/Ambient/Trip Hop
Country: U.K.

Tracks:
01. Weather Storm
02. This Love (Cruel Intentions)
03. Sly II
04. After The Storm
05. Laura's Theme
06. My Father
07. Balcony Scene (Romeo + Juliet)
08. Rise
09. Glasgow
10. Let's Go Out Tonight
11. Childhood
12. Hymn

In a few words:

Perhaps you know him from his collaboration with Massive Attack. In his solo career Armstrong is strongly affected by classical music. So, in his debut album the songs are mainly strings-based. Strange beats and pianos are also existing. The overall atmosphere is quite trippy and melancholic. When he decides to use voices in the songs the results are outstanding. Take as an example the track "This Love". Undoubtedly it is one of the most beautiful love-songs I have ever heard. To sum up, "The Space..." is a very good album and an appropriate listen during these summer rains...

Personal highlights:
"Weather Storm", "This Love" and "Let's Go Out Tonight"

R.I.P. Ronnie

2010-05-30T22:55:00.014+03:00

I could write a lot of things about him: for his beautiful, powerful and characteristic voice, for his compositions, for his lyrics or for the "devil horns" that he make it the greeting gesture of all metalheads. However, I would like to say that apart from all the above, Ronnie was a GREAT person and a very sensitive guy. Just remember that the Hear N' Aid project was his own idea. Without doubt, he was a remarkable singer. Rock/Metal music is poorer after his death...

As a tribute, I decided to upload his first solo album, just to have him in mind at his best times.

Your songs will live forever Ronnie...

Year of release: 1983

Genre: Heavy Metal
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Stand Up And Shout
02. Holy Diver
03. Gypsy
04. Caught In The Middle
05. Don't Talk To Strangers
06. Straight Through The Heart
07. Invisible
08. Rainbow In The Dark
09. Shame On The Night

In a few words:

I can't write something that you don't know about this album. Every rock/metal fan should have it. It's a classic. Great songs, great guitar work, nice lyrics and of course, the main highlight is the GREAT VOICE of Ronnie.

Personal highlights:
Classic songs all of them...

Yngwie Malmsteen - Concerto Suite For Electric Guitar And Orchestra In E Flat Minor Opus 1

2010-05-20T22:18:00.013+03:00

Year of release: 1998

Genre: Neo-classical
Country: Sweden

Tracks:
01. Icarus Dream Fanfare
02. Cavallino Rampante
03. Fugue
04. Prelude to April
05. Toccata
06. Andante
07. Sarabande
08. Allegro
09. Adagio
10. Vivace
11. Presto Vivace
12. Finale

In a few words:

In this album the great Swedish guitarist makes his dream true. He composed and arranged a suite for both orchestra and electric guitar. There is no "first violin" here, just Yngwie's white Stratocaster. Similar to the Roth case (see here for details), the collaboration between rock (Malmsteen) and classical music (Prague Symphonic Orchestra) is simply amazing. It is like Paganini playing an electric guitar. The suite is quite interesting as a composition, with all the characteristics of classical music. So, if you enjoy classical music or you like guitar virtuosos , then this album is appropriate for you. Yngwie has played this album live (but with New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra) in Tokyo, back in 2001. There are some videos from that performance (like this one).

Personal highlights:
The suite should be listened as a whole...

Mike Oldfield - Tres Lunas

2010-05-10T21:00:00.022+03:00

Year of release: 2002

Genre: Pop/Chill-out
Country: U.K.

Tracks:
01. Misty
02. No Mans Land
03. Return To The Origin
04. Landfall
05. Viper
06. Turtle Island
07. To Be Free
08. Fire Fly
09. Tres Lunas
10. Daydream
11. Thou Art In Heaven
12. Sirius
13. No Mans Land - Reprise
14. To Be Free (Radio Edit)

In a few words:

Gather your friends to your balcony, take your favorite drink, and put this album to the CD player. Alternatively, go to a beach, lay down to the sand and watch the sea waves while listening to this album. As you might think, the current album is highly recommended for summer-listening. Very relaxing and with many beautiful melodies, it will make your summer nights fantastic. It is quite underestimated considering Oldfield's discography and I really don't know the reason. The melodies are really catchy and the various electronic beats create a really chill-out atmosphere. The female voices are quite good and enhance the whole relaxing atmosphere. Personally speaking, this album is one of favorite summer soundtracks.

Personal highlights:
"No Mans Land", " Landfall" and "Turtle Island"

Empyrium - Songs Of Moors & Misty Fields

2010-05-05T21:21:00.011+03:00

Year of release: 1997

Genre: Doom/Black/Folk Metal
Country: Germany

Tracks:
01. When Shadows Grow Longer
02. The Blue Mists Of Night
03. Mourners
04. Ode To Melancholy
05. Lover's Grief
06. The Ensemble Of Silence

In a few words:

Empyrium was a German band that tried to combine doom metal with black metal vocals and folk music (at their early stages). Although you might thing this is an awkward combination, you will be surprised with what they have created. In this (second) album they balance between metal and folk, having also dark atmospheres and a cold feeling in their songs. There are also a lot of keyboards and classical instruments in their compositions, which make the listening much more interesting and symphonic. If you don't like metal, then try the band's following albums, like Weiland for example (neo-folk). One of the two main members of this band (Ulf Theodor Schwadorf) is now member of Vision Bleak.

Personal highlights:
"Mourners", "Ode To Melancholy" and "The Ensemble Of Silence"

In The Labyrinth - The Garden Of Mysteries

2010-04-22T00:50:00.012+03:00

Year of release: 1994

Genre: Folk/Progressive Rock/World Music
Country: Sweden

Tracks:
01. Gates Of Andorra
02. Karakoram Pass
03. Escape From Canaan
04. Hiram Abiff
05. Kekova (The Sunken City)
06. Ali Hasan
07. Aslan
08. Meditating Minotauros
09. The Garden Of Mysteries II
10. Monsoon
11. Andalucy
12. Journey To Hel
13. Moorish Tapsody
14. Trans Turkish Express
15. Aral
16. Moorish Waltz
17. Desert Visions
18. Ya Qader
19. The Garden Of Mysteries I
20. La Dame Inconnue
21. Almeria
22. Palm-cat

In a few words:

This album is a real time machine. Believe me, when you will listen to it you will think that you are somewhere in the Middle East, many centuries ago. It is a very strange and mysterious album, but it is worth-listening. There are many ethnic instruments that enhance its mysterious atmosphere. Most compositions are instrumentals, with quite "rich" orchestration. The mastermind behind this project is Peter Lindahl, who is influenced by Turkish popular music, songs of the Middle East, Greek Rebetiko and Indian classical music (as he says in his site). It should be highlighted, that the album was sold out and never re-released, so it cannot be found in a music shop. In general, the album is a unique trip. Enjoy it!

Personal highlights:

The album flows as one song...

Callisto - Noir

2010-04-21T21:11:00.012+03:00

Year of release: 2006

Genre: Post Metal
Country: Finland

Tracks:
01. Wormwood
02. Latterdays Saints
03. The Fugitive
04. Backwoods
05. A Close Encounter
06. Pathos
07. Folkslave
08. Woven Hands

In a few words:

Callisto is a Finnish post metal band and Noir is their second album. The music is built upon various levels of guitar sounds, while the keyboards supporting the atmosphere. The band flirts a lot with post rock and only in the outbreaks they remind a metal band. The songs should be regarded as instrumentals, since they contain only few lyrics. The overall atmosphere of the album is quite dark and pessimistic, so don't listen to it when you are at a happy mood. Furthermore, I should point out that the use of saxophone in "Wormwood" was quite a surprise! All in all, if you like bands like Isis and Neurosis give them a try and you will not regret it...

Personal highlights:

"Wormwood", "Latterdays Saints" and "Folkslave"

Buckethead - Electric Tears

2010-04-12T00:01:00.016+03:00

Year of release: 2002

Genre: Instrumental/Experimental/Guitar Virtuoso
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. All In The Waiting
02. Sketches Of Spain (For Miles)
03. Padmasana
04. Mustang
05. The Way To Heaven
06. Baptism Of Solitude
07. Kansas Storm
08. Datura
09. Mantaray
10. Witches On The Heath
11. Angel Monster
12. Electric Tears
13. Spell Of The Gypsies

In a few words:

This album is probably the calmest album of this talented (but also eccentric) guitarist. Brian Patrick Carroll is better known for his collaboration with Guns 'N Roses, Iggy Pop, Serj Tankian, Bill Moseley, Mike Patton and others. He has already released 29 solo albums! Electric Tears is his 9th release and is characterized by the use of two only instruments: an acoustic and a electric guitar. Very calm and atmospheric, this album is recommended for relaxing. I should definitely point out that "Sketches Of Spain" is dedicated to the memory of Miles Davis (see here for the original version) and is an awesome cover!!!

Personal highlights:

"ll In The Waiting", "Sketches Of Spain (For Miles)" and "Angel Monster"

Ekho - Among The Shadows Of Erebus (Demo)

2010-04-07T23:49:00.012+03:00

Year of release: 2009

Genre: Black/Folk Metal
Country: Israel

Tracks:
01. Among The Shadows Of Erebus
02. Waters Of Abyss
03. Silent Mourning
04. Across

In a few words:

This is the second demo of this Israeli band. Ekho plays an interesting mixture of melodic black metal with ethnic elements. These elements make the listening much more "spicy" and attract the listener's attention. In my opinion, they should continue to this direction - adding new elements without leaving their black metal origins. The sound is not perfect, but OK, this is a demo - not an official release. So, the sound is clean enough to distinguish what instruments play but also "dirty" enough to keep the "black metal" roughness. Credits go for their decision to upload this demo in various blogs (as this one). So guys, keep up the good work. We expecting much more interesting stuff in the future.

Personal highlights:

"Among The Shadows Of Erebus" and "Silent Mourning"

Captain Beyond - Captain Beyond

2010-04-05T23:52:00.013+03:00

Year of release: 1972

Genre: Progressive Rock/Heavy Rock
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Dancing Madly Backwards (On A Sea Of Air)
02. Armworth
03. Myopic Void
04. Mesmerization Eclipse
05. Raging River Of Fear
06. Thousand Days Of Yesterdays (Intro)
07. Frozen Over
08. Thousand Days Of Yesterdays (Time Since Come And Gone)
09. I Can't Feel Nothin', Pt. 1
10. As The Moon Speaks (To The Waves Of The Sea)
11. Astral Lady
12. As The Moon Speaks (Return)
13. I Can't Feel Nothin', Pt. 2

In a few words:

Do you like groups like Monster Magnet? Do you like also 70's progressive rock? If the answer to both questions is yes, then this album is perfect for you. This is the first album of a band with former members of Iron Butterfly, Deep Purple and Johnny Winter (an early super-group we could say), that could also be the ancestor of Monster Magnet (although MM's sound is harder than CP). So, catchy riffs, good solos, progressive attitude and a nice voice are the main components of this forgotten jewel. In brief, this album definitely ROCKS!

Wikipedia

Personal highlights:

"Mesmerization Eclipse", "Raging River Of Fear" and "Thousand Days Of Yesterdays"

Al Di Meola - Elegant Gypsy

2010-03-28T22:52:00.015+03:00

Year of release: 1977

Genre: Jazz Rock/Fusion/Guitar Virtuoso
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. Flight Over Rio
02. Midnight Tango
03. Mediterranean Sundance
04. Race With Devil On Spanish Highway
05. Lady Of Rome Sister Of Brazil
06. Elegant Gypsy Suite

In a few words:

Al Di Meola is without doubt one of my favorite guitarists. He introduced me to jazz/rock music with this album and this is the reason why I decided to recommend it to you, since it is a masterpiece of jazz rock/fusion music. He is a great player and a good composer too. Elegant Gypsy is his second solo album. The album can be easily listened from non-musicians, since it has beautiful melodies and the compositions can be easily followed. It is also recommended to guitarists for practice (although the songs are very difficult - I have tried to learn them but...). Guitar at its best.

Personal highlights:

"Flight Over Rio", "Mediterranean Sundance" and "Elegant Gypsy Suite"

American Blues Exchange - Blueprint

2010-03-26T23:35:00.010+02:00

Year of release: 1969

Genre: Blues
Country: U.S.A.

Tracks:
01. On Solitude
02. Cold From Blues
03. Recorder Thing
04. The Taker
05. Burlington Letter
06. Ode To The Lost Legs Of John Bean
07. Big Max Revenge
08. The True Son Cofesses
09. Age Child
10. Steppin Out
11. One Sunny Day
12. Dust My Broom

In a few words:

It's time for blues now. It's time to listen to an album that was released 41 years ago. There is a lot of feeling here. Feeling that is combined with the excellent guitar work and the robust rhythm section. The band, except for the blues, was also inspired from the folk music that was popular that time (take for instance "The True Son Cofesses"). The voice is also quite good, but not something special in general. However, I believe that this is a classic blues album that many people should listen and acquire. It is quite good for night-listening.

Answers.com

Personal highlights:

"On Solitude", "Ode To The Lost Legs Of John Bean" and "One Sunny Day"

Subaudition - Light On The Path

2010-03-24T23:50:00.033+02:00

Year of release: 2009

Genre: Acoustic/Neo-Folk
Country: Finland

Tracks:
01. Alms Of The Sun
02. Sínne
03. Now That We've Spent All The Light
04. Feathers Fall
05. The Soul Unto Aether
06. Human Abstract
07. Wall Of Water

In a few words:

Subaudition is the side-project of a Finnish progressive rock/metal band called Manifold Project. Although they begun as an acoustic project, they have added violin, keyboards and some electric guitars on their sound. I could recommend this album to people that like bands such as Shamrain (listen here) or even Green Carnation (listen here). The album is quite melancholic and atmospheric. The voice is "warm" and appropriate to accompany the music. Credits go to the use of violin and piano, which colorize the songs, as well as to the beautiful cover of the album.

Site

Personal highlights:

"Alms Of The Sun", "Now That We've Spent All The Light" and "Human Abstract"

Interstellar Overdrive - Interstellar Overdrive

2010-03-24T22:55:00.028+02:00

Year of release: 2000

Genre: Alternative/Experimental/Rock
Country: Greece

Tracks:
01. In The Cycle
02. Nine Eyes
03. Its Golden Light
04. Flattered
05. Shade
06. And I Weep
07. Derelict
08. I Won't Follow
09. Hide Your Love

In a few words:

Here is another Greek album that many "famous" bands would like to have released. This album is a very interesting mixture of many different kinds of music, but in general we could say that is a rock album, although it contains a lot of experimental elements. It should be mentioned that the violin is used in many tracks with excellent results. The band has its own style and continues to experiment on it (check also their rest releases - especially Hibernation). The band uses both male and female vocals in its songs, providing variety in the album.

Personal highlights:

"Nine Eyes", "And I Weep" and "Hide Your Love"

Atlantic - Power

2010-03-14T23:05:00.023+02:00

Year of release: 1994

Genre: Melodic Hard Rock
Country: U.K.

Tracks:
01. It's Only Love
02. Power Over Me
03. When The War Is Over
04. Can't Hold On
05. Every Beat Of My Heart
06. Bad Blood
07. Nothing To Lose
08. Dangerous Game
09. Hands Of Fate
10. Hard To Believe
11. Hearts On Fire

In a few words:

Another amazing melodic hard rock album is presented here. During 90's many good albums have been released from bands that did not manage to make any success. However, similar to the Giant case (see here for details), this is a very good album. Beautiful songs with very good guitar riffs/solos and melodies, nice work on keyboards and a very good voice, with a lot of feeling. Almost all the songs are "catchy" and could be possibly released as singles. It is a feel-good album, which is highly recommended for car-listening, especially when the sun is shining...

Last FM

Personal highlights:

"It's Only Love", "Power Over Me" and "Every Beat Of My Heart"

Firebird - Grand Union

2010-02-28T22:33:00.012+02:00

Year of release: 2009

Genre: Blues Rock
Country: U.K.

Tracks:
01. Blue Flame
02. Jack The Lad
03. Lonely Road
04. Fool For You
05. Silent Stranger
06. Release Me
07. Wild Honey
08. Gold Label
09. Worried Mind
10. See The Light
11. Four Day Creep
12. Caledonia

In a few words:

This is the most recently release of this blues rock band, called Firebird. The band circulates around BIll Steer (ex Carcass), who is the songwriter, the guitarist and the vocalist of the band. The rest band members change frequently. However, this does not affect the quality and the sound of the band (all their albums are quite good). So, blues is the case here. An album that brings the old blues feeling and techniques to now. Steer's voice is quite good and with a lot of feeling. If the previous presented album (Ad Astra) was accompanied with beer, this ones fits perfect with whiskey/bourbon...

Myspace

Wikipedia

Personal highlights:

"Jack The Lad", "Release Me" and "Four Day Creep"

Spiritual Beggars - Ad Astra

2010-02-28T22:31:00.017+02:00

Year of release: 2000

Genre: Hard Rock/Stoner/Metal
Country: Sweden

Tracks:
01. Left Brain Ambassadors
02. Wonderful World
03. Sedated
04. Angel Of Betrayal
05. Blessed
06. Per Aspera Ad Astra
07. Save Your Soul
08. Until The Morning
09. Escaping The Fools
10. On Dark Rivers
11. The Goddess
12. Mantra
13. Let The Magic Talk

In a few words:

Ad Astra is probably the best album of Spiritual Beggars. The album is actually a dynamite of energy. Hard rock is combined with metal and space/stoner elements resulting in excellent songs that can cheer you up. The riffs and solos of Mike Ammot, the rhythm section, the keyboards of Per Wiber and of course the voice of Spice are the components of this album. If you like 70's hard rock and bands like Deep Purple, you will also like this one. After many years I put this album on my cd player and it blew my away like the first time. Enjoy it with a lot of beers!

Myspace