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Opeth – Sorceress (review)

George Archibald

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opeth-sorceress

Opeth – Sorceress

Reviewed by George Archibald

With each album the Swedish band Opeth seems to evolve further and further. This once heavy death metal band with harsh vocal stylings, has grown into a progressive rock monster, sporting strong clean vocals and harmonies. The band began experimenting with changing its sound as far back as the Damnation album, and then made the shift to playing more of a 70s prog/rock style on the album Heritage. Sorceress is the next step in that evolution for the band, continuing on with its 70s style progressive rock, and adding in elements of psychedelic rock, and vocalist Mikael Åkerfeldt, pushing his clean vocals even further on this album. Sorceress almost plays as a rock opera at times with many ballad like pieces, and hard rocking grooves throughout. Sorceress is the 12th studio release for the band and marks the first release on Nuclear Blast Entertainment.

The band released the single “Sorceress” to the masses on August 1, 2016. This song starts off with a funky organ piece accompanied by a bit of splashy jazz styled drums. This is a definitely a new turn for the band expanding their sound. Sorceress then dives into a more familiar realm, with a driving distorted guitar riff and Akerfeldt’s haunting vocals cutting through the mix. The song coaxes you to nod along with the beat, as they follow up with a very progressive styled break into the solo. To finish the song out, the band goes into this playful melodic riff before ending.

My personal favorite song on the album has to be “Strange Brew”. It is a very somber tune in the beginning with piano and Aferfeldt’s very candid vocal style. It’s so open, yet almost fragile at the same time. The guitars come in playing what feels like classic Opeth styling till they bring in the psychedelic rock, with heavy guitar and sporadic keyboard. When Akerfeldt comes back in he has a bit of a roar and power to his vocals. The band joins in with a heavy 70s style rock solo and riffing, reminiscent of early Led Zeppelin when the band would just go off on a jam session. This song is definitely playing up the theatrics on the album with its balance of heavy and somber ballad like pieces.

If you are a fan of Opeth this is a must listen. The band has made many strides from where they started with this album. The production on this release  is top notch as well, for the album sounds very full as well as clear throughout.

Sorceress is to be released on September 30th. Be sure to pick up a copy and give it a listen, you will not be disappointed.

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CD Reviews

ALICE IN CHAINS “BLACK GIVES WAY TO BLUE” VINYL REVIEW

Ron

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Alice In Chains have Re-Released the 2009 album on vinyl. This album was the first Alice In Chains in 14 years and the first album with guitarist/singer Willam DuVall after Layne Staley passed away in 2002. 

I was a huge Alice In Chains fan and was a big fan of both Layne and Jerry. When this album first came out I remember sorta pushing it the side only cause of sadness about Layne but after hearing “Check My Brain” I gave it a chance and was so glad that I did. This album is amazing and really put Alice In Chains back into the mainstream. 

The vinyl not only looks super awesome but sounds amazing. If you’re a fan of Alice In Chains and into collecting Vinyl, this album is a must in your collection. It’s a great packed vinyl with 2 vinyls included. 

Side A: All Secrets Known, Check My Brain and Last of My Kind. Side B: Your Decision, A Looking in View. Side C: When The Sun Rose Again, Acid Bubble, Lesson Learned. Side D: Take Her Out, Private Hell, Black Gives Away To Blue

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CD Reviews

VENDED: Album Review

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9/20/24 sees the independent release of the full-length, self-titled debut album from Des Moines, Iowa natives Vended. Featuring vocalist Griffin Taylor, Simon Crahan on drums, Jeremiah Pugh on bass, Cole Espland on lead guitar, and Connor Grodzicki on rhythm guitar.

On this album they have taken more abrasive elements of nu metal as seen in the late 90s from bands like Slipknot and Soulfly and utilized elements of metalcore to slap a fresh coat of paint on the style. There are elements that remind me of the more modern and spastic styles of nu metal, similar to a band like Tallah. 

Griffin’s vocal styling showcases mid-range screams as the main driving force bending the vocals. True to the nu metal elements, the rage and anger perceived from the screams are offset by the occasional catchy riff or fast talking, almost rapping stylized lyrics. 

Crahan shows an impressive command of rhythm with his double bass drum. Driving each track forward with a machine gun-like purpose, which makes the more groove-oriented parts hit much harder. Crahan, in addition to the rest of the rhythm section (Espland and Pugh), all really work together well to keep the momentum moving forward while not sacrificing said groove. 

While I wouldn’t call it album of the year or anything. It’s definitely worth checking out. Standout tracks: “Nihilism” and “The Far Side”. 

Vended can be found on the usual socials. And the album is available on all streaming platforms. And physical copies can be purchased though https://www.officialvended.com

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CD Reviews

DevilSkin “Surfacing” EP 

Ron

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It’s been 4 years since Devilskin’s last album, “Red.” The New Zealand band has followed up with their new EP, “Surfacing.” 

This 6-song EP starts off with “Whale Song,” which just rocks and puts you right in the mood for what Devilskin is going to bring. I love Jennie Skulander’s voice; it works perfectly with the tone and grittiness of the album. 

The EP has two covers on it. “Barracuda,” which we reviewed before and is a great cover song. The band also takes a swing at Dio’s “Holy Diver.” I am pretty critical about anyone covering Dio. Most bands try too hard to sound like Ronnie, which doesn’t always work out. However, I like this cover because the band takes their own path when covering it and makes it their own. 

“Let Me Breathe,” “Insects,” and “Unborn” round up the rest of the EP. Which makes the EP a great listen from beginning to end. There has been a great resurgence of bands coming from New Zealand that kick ass. DevilSkin is on top of that list of bands. I hope that they make it over to the US soon so we can get a chance to check them out live. If you’re into a great rock EP and want to listen to something new and fresh, I recommend checking out this EP.

 THIS IS A SPONSORED REVIEW BROUGHT TO YOU BY TAG PUBLICITY   

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