CD Reviews

Sixx A. M. – Prayers For The Damned Vol. 1 (review)

Published

9 years ago

May 10, 2016

Josh Drespling

Sixx A.M.
Prayers For The Damned Vol. 1

Review by Josh Drespling

One could conceive the title of this album as a marketing ploy or perhaps a statement that this band is here to stay. Sixx A.M. has released what they are calling Prayers of the Dammed Vol. 1. One would gamble that the seconded incarnation of this album is already in the works, but if you relish the current state of Motley Crue, you might find yourself believing that there is a subtle message hidden in there.

Vol. 1 is filled to the top with driving, melodic and soulful rock songs. Songs that pull you in and make you experience the emotional state of the song writer. These tracks are expertly penned and crafted to deliver a heart and moving moment for the listener.

The album starts off with a banger “Rise”. This song is a hook laden anthem. With beautifully executed lyrics such as: “Rise up, it’s a dawn of a new day, Hands up, it’s gonna be okay, Even when they strangle you, get yourselves together, Strike down all that oppose you, Look now, what have they sold you, Even if they anger you, get yourselves together, Rise!”.

The second track “You Have Come to the Right Place” jumps in right where “Rise” left of. Delivering the perfect mix of guitar crunch and soaring rock vocals, not to mention the near perfect guitar leads and solos.

“I’m Sick” lowers the tempo a bit but keeps tugging on your heart-strings with the lyrics “If I’m not breathing, resuscitate my soul. Bring on the shame, bring on the pain”, then slams you with more rock furry.

The album rolls through eight more songs including the title track, of pure rock bliss delivered with superb production, amazing vocals and songs that could concur the divide between good and evil.

Nikki Sixx, has successfully proven that there can and will be life after Motley Crue. I truly cannot wait for Vol 2. In the meant time check out the three previous releases from this amazing band: The Heroin Diaries Soundtrack (2007), This Is Gonna Hurt” (2011), and Modern Vintage” (2014).

About Author

Josh Drespling

Josh is the Publisher and creator of Empire Extreme and it’s sister publication Kingdom Extreme Magazine. He is an accomplished writer, photographer and graphic designer. He is always conjuring up new ideas and has a amazing passion for the music industry and all the things that surround it.

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CD Reviews

BUSH 30th ANNIVERSARY OF “SIXTEEN STONE” VINYL

Published

1 day 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

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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