Connect with us

CD Reviews

Russian Circles – Guidance (review)

George Archibald

Published

on

Russian Circles – Guidance

Reviewed by George Archibald

Chicago based Russian Circles have been churning out instrumental perfection since 2004. This three piece, rubs shoulders with other instrumental rock and metal giants, such as Isis and Red Sparrows. The band is constantly evolving with each album, trying to expand on its sounds and techniques. This band is known for fluid transfers between heavy rock and very soft melodic riffs, which has become a signature for Russian Circles. 2016’s release of Guidance is the 6th studio album for the band. Guidance expands the bands depth in relation to its previous album Memorial.

The opening song “Asa”, starts off with a very Baroness-que style acoustic opening. Very subtle changes in the riff till it breaks to an emotionally felt lead, then back to the riff. For an opening song, it is a nice toe in the water feel before jumping head first into what the band has in store with its next track “Vorel”.

“Vorel” takes you in a completely different direction with a straight cadence drumming leading off the song. The band sits back in a wave of ambience as drummer Dave Turncrantz, showcases his powerful drumming, before the band hits you with an anthem like opening that will have you nodding in no time. A very rock driven song, “Vorel” displays the heavier side of Russian Circles.

Guidance is another Russian Circles masterpiece, putting the dichotomy of the bands ability to play both light and heavy, out there for everyone to hear. If you are a fan of instrumental bands or are looking for something different that will keep your interest throughout, definitely check out this album. Guidance is out now and available on many streaming sites, or you can catch the band live as they are currently on tour in the United States through October 9th before finishing their tour in Europe on November 20th.

About Author

Continue Reading
Click to comment

You must be logged in to post a comment Login

Leave a Reply

CD Reviews

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

Ron

Published

on

By

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

About Author

Continue Reading

CD Reviews

VENDED: Album Review

Published

on

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

About Author

Continue Reading

CD Reviews

DevilSkin “Surfacing” EP 

Ron

Published

on

By

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   

About Author

Continue Reading

Things You May Have Missed

%d bloggers like this: