CD Reviews

Scorpion Child – Acid Roulette (review)

Published

8 years ago

July 8, 2016

JJ Ulizio

Scorpion Child – Acid Roulette (review)

Review by JJ Ulizio

On 06/10/16 the psychedelic rock & metal band Scorpion Child from Austin, Texas released Acid Roulette, the follow up to their 2013 self-titled debut. Being a fan since hearing music from their first album on SiriusXM, I was extremely excited to listen to their sophomore effort. Rightfully placed was my excitement because I feel strong that this might be my pick for album of the year. I know, as of press time, that it is only July but I think this album rocks that much. I’ll have to find something truly epic to dethrone this release.

Continuing with the trends they set on their first album Scorpion Child continues to come across as a band out of time. Obvious influences from classic rock legends like Led Zeppelin, Thin Lizzy, Deep Purple and the heavy and hard flavors from bands like Black Sabbath all blend together to make one hell of a hard rock or stoner rock album. When I have this album on it usually ends up with me getting followed by police officers because I subconsciously start speeding.

The album leads off with the track “She Sings, I Kill”. It begins with a fading in guitar effect before the drums come crashing in, followed the explosion of the first verse where vocalist Aryn Jonathan Black starts wailing in a way that is reminiscent of Robert Plant. The riffs, the guitar playing, and the well-crafted drum rhythms come together seamlessly to hook the listener in for the duration of the album. The music doesn’t let up as the second track “Reaper’s Danse” kicks into high gear right from the start with a blistering guitar lead, driving riffs, pounding drums, and catchy melodies that keep you moving and makes your driving foot heavier.

Organist/keyboardist AJ Vincent proves to be a welcome addition to the band and is made quite apparent in the title track where mid song he really shows off what he is capable of when his playing becomes the driving force behind the song. More than just that, throughout the entire album his playing can be heard adding another dynamic element to the music. His playing gives the album a fuller and thicker sound along side the guitar attack of Christopher Jay Cowart

I would highly recommend this disc to any fan of rock, or hard rock music. It’s just a balls to the wall record that truly shows off what a high caliber band this is and what they are capable of. It has solid songwriting across the board, although it is not quite as “heavy” as their 2013 debut album. That being said I obviously think this is an amazing album and a damn good rock record. Go pick it up.

I have seen them twice and can’t wait to see them again! You can find when tour dates are added and more from this band of Texans by clicking here, definitely go and check them out.

About Author

JJ Ulizio

JJ has been a contributing writer and huge asset to Empire and Empire Extreme since the very begining. He is always digging for new bands and has a true heart and desire to see the bands grow and succeed.

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Related Topics:Acid Roulette Scorpion Child

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CD Reviews

BUSH 30th ANNIVERSARY OF “SIXTEEN STONE” VINYL

Published

3 days ago

November 20, 2024

Ron

I remember when this album came out in 1994 . I was 15 and really discovering all types of music. As being a typical teenage boy I seen the band name “Bush” and thought hmm I love bush, let’s check it out. It was such an amazing album from beginning to end.

The new released vinyl that just came out on November 17th is such a testament to this album being as great then as it is now. Listening to the vinyl just brought back so many memories of being an angst teenager that just wanted to heard. The vinyl package is amazing with lots of photos of the band throughout the years and the sound of the vinyl is so pristine.

I got my hands on the opaque red vinyl and just looks awesome spinning on the player. It’s crazy to think that this album has so many hits and no filler songs, even the songs that didn’t become hits are just as good as the hits.

With the hits being “Glycerine”, “Everything Zen” , “Comedown” “Little Things” and “Machinehead” but some of my favorite songs are not the hits songs like “Swim”, “Bomb” and “Alien” which is probably my favorite song on the album. If you’re a fan of Bush or this album or just want to dive into the mid 90s Grunge/Post Grunge era this is a key album to have in your collection.

About Author

Ron

Ron has keen eye for new talent, a love for the underground, and a tremendous passion for music of any genera. You’ll probably bump into him at a horror convention or some seedy club checking out the next need-to-know band.

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CD Reviews

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

Published

2 months ago

October 3, 2024

Ron

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

Ron

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CD Reviews

VENDED: Album Review

Published

2 months ago

September 20, 2024

JJ Ulizio

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