NYE Fun Continues With Entombed AD

Entombed AD return with lots of energy… and VODKA!!
(Pictured is vocalist and our dear fun Papa, Lars Göran Petrov and current touring guitarist Guilherme Miranda)

We rose from the concert hibernation and in to the pit of Entombed AD! What better band than these brutal Swedes to kick start Ugh Metal’s concert season? The Jan.16 show at Brick By Brick was memorable for many reasons, and we’re not just talking about Entombed AD’s frontman Lars Göran Petrov. But before we venture to the core of this sarcophagus, Poison Headache was the antidote for the 2016 blues.

Jenny Oh: You know, it was my first time watching Poison Headache and I felt like I really missed out, man. I know I’m a terrible San Diegan!

Chuggo the Klown:  It was our first time, dummy. We didn’t see them the first time because we were still recovering from HeadFest, which happened to be the day before!

J: Oh… Yeah. Anyway, it was great to finally see them in action. It’s no secret why they’re gaining so much momentum.

C: The shocking part is that there’s no bass… sorry Murderface! Still it was great that I finally heard “Sin Eater” live!

J: They brought their A game and wouldn’t have been a Poison Headache show without “Rot With Me.”

C:  No, gracias. Already rotting of my own volition thank you very much!

Poison Headache owned that stage like headliners!
(Pictured is vocalist/guitarist/bassist Phil Sgrosso and backup vocalist/guitarist Andy Kukta)

J: You and your British shows and their fancy language. Well, you can’t escape the reaper, after all, it’s all part of “Death’s Design.” *wink, wink*

C: You done yet, Tony Robbins? I would like to continue to talk about this performance! Because it’s not every day you see a trio with nothing but a pair of guitars and a double bass drum, thundering their sounds through the night like they were the headliners!

J: I agree Mr. Tolkien! Their performance was boner inducing… enough to blast us off to the Turbid North!

C: Right you are my hobbit sibling! The moment they started, my eyes were alive!

J: Like their song, “Eyes Alive?”

C: Right… that was the name of the opener. Anyway, this Alaskan trio treated us to a night of groove and death metal.

J: The volatility of the “Pyramid Drones” and the mellow transition to the “Red Giant” was much like the unpredictability of the Alaskan weather. You can take the boys outta the North Pole and into Texas, but these dudes proved you can’t take the North Pole outta them!

Turbid North will surely melt a frozen wasteland and raise some hell!… and give us peppermints?
(L to R: Vocalist/guitarist Nick Forkel and bassist/backup vocalist Chris O’Toole)

C: Right…? I was thinking Stargate, the movie not the show because these song titles sound like sci-fi and might have been tackled in the Stargate show. I still dunno what Santa had do with this band, though?

J: He has everything to do with this band! He must have been the inspiration for “Destroyer of Worlds” after all it sounded like it came out of the soundtrack for the fiery inferno…hmmm… good pick.

C: I think you mean Satan for this one… at least that’s what staunch Christians tell me. I was talking about the fat pimp from Christmas time.

J: Oh…! That fat ass… you can count on him and Turbid North to “Bring Home the Motherlode.” But no Chuggo, there’s a North Pole, Alaska. I’m pretty sure that fat sack of toys and peppermint doesn’t live there…

C: True that… putting his workshop in Palin country would be…

J: Full of Hell!?

C: Yes… incidentally, isn’t that the co-headliner of that night?

J: Oh yeah… these guys opened a whole new pandora’s box and unleashed a crusty-grindcore monster.

Full of Hell Vocalist, Dylan Walker, summoning distorted demon growls from the crusty-grindcore monster.

C: Yeah… although, visually, we got a punk show atmosphere to go along with that monster. The frontman, Dylan Walker, was all over the place.

J: Yeah he was! Thanks to Walker, my eyes and neck got to do a bit of cardio. He was bursting with that raw energy and there was never a dull moment. Full of Hell’s equipment was definitely out of this world and so fascinating… very mesmerizing.

C: Ah, yes, the biggest fucking mouthpiece I’ve ever seen. Walker busted out the mouthpiece of his mixer and went apeshit for “Pile of Dead Horses” and “Kopf.” Although, I was a bit concerned with it because the sounds that mouthpiece emitted sounded like the failed ignition from a car. But it made an interesting show that was far better in sound and performance than Skrillex.

J: Skrillex? Um… really? I’m sure 2010 and the sheep will defer with you.

C: Sheep are meant to be slaughtered! Either way, I can understand why Nails collaborated with these guys, same intensity and almost the same sounds.

J:  For those that missed out on the Nails show last year, like yours truly, these guys reeled me back in to the crustcore loop.

C: You were never in the loop!

J: Shut up! Now let’s talk about Papa Lars.

(Papa) Lars Göran Petrov returns to San Diego with Entombed AD with more shenanigans!

C: Ah yes… now that our interns had the absolute pleasure to meet the man, 2017 was a great kick off! It was so nice to see Papa Lars and company. Most importantly, AD or not, they’re shows are opposite of “Midas In Reverse.”

J: Like always, Papa Lars is the life of the party and we can always count on him to give us a swig from his bottle of vodka in exchange for beer sips. Our reunion wasn’t complete without some crazy stories and classic Entombed songs.

C: Too bad the original line up isn’t together but it’s awesome to hear “Stranger Aeons” and “Living Dead” live.

J: Though the majority of the set list blasted us to the past, Lars and the rest of Entombed A.D. injected these classics with booze, sweat, mucus and exuberance!

C: Also a bit of freshness with their current touring guitarist, Guilherme Miranda. That guy ruled and kept up. And was the token Brazilian amongst the Swedes.

Lars Göran Petrov of Entombed AD shows us his party face while guitarist Guilherme Miranda meditates.

J: This show felt like a belated New Year’s celebration filled with plenty of VODKA and fun… hmmm… this was a big family reunion done right.

C: Yeah… the one you would like to attend to and stay for. Not the ones you dread because you know it’s going to be in some place in bum fuck nowhere. Hoping to see these legendary Swedes again in our humble abode!

J: Till next time, Papa Lars! Cheers!

The Trials of January 27

Xandria Takes ‘Theater’ to a New Dimension

The Klown loves the ladies… especially of the angelic and operatic vocal variety. On that note, German symphonic metal band Xandria has released their seventh installment, Theater of Dimensions through Napalm Records. Right from the start, “Where the Heart is Home” sets an epic tone and vocalist Dianne van Giersbergen adds a womanly touch. “We Are Murderers (We Are),” features the most recurrent special vocalist to grace our site, Soilwork’s Björn Strid. Unlike other appearances, Strid lends both his growls and clean vocals for the chorus and duets with van Giersbergen. Not to knock on the subgenre, the symphonic brand can’t simply be complete without its ballad and with that comes “Dark Night of the Soul.” The song gives van Giersbergen the complete spotlight in this symphonic and intimate song…It’s kind of a tear jerker. Highly recommended for Sirenia, Epica, Nightwish and Leaves’ Eyes fans!

5 out of 6, Will Bring the Beast Back for An Encore

Hold on your hats ’cause its gonna be a bumpy ride

Hour of Penance Commits Another Sin

Hour of Penance might be the second coming with this album. The Italian technical death metal quartet has seen the proverbial light of Rome and has released their seventh heaven of an album, Cast the First Stone through Prosthetic Records. Let’s just say that right from the get-go, “XXI Century Imperial Crusade” will get you hooked. The Klown thought he was listening to a track from Fleshgod Apocalypse’s Oracles album or their Mafia EP and their influence bled through the tracks “Cast the First Stone” and “The Chains of Misdeed.” The Ex-Deo like closing track, “Damnatio Memoriae,” was rightfully placed as the grand finale of this album so much so that the Klown simply can’t find the appropriate words. It was that great of an album and was epic as it was brutal.

6 out of 6, Jesus, eat your heart out!

FREE FOR ALL!!!

Au Champ Des Mort Debut their Kvlt of Joy

Pardon the Klown’s French, but this black metal quartet literally named The Field of Death have debuted their first studio album Dans la Joie (“In Joy,” see? The Klown is saving you some time from Google translate) through Debemur Morti Productions and their bandcamp. The Klown is not expecting you to know who Au Champ Des Mort are because unless you live in France or constantly search for new black metal acts to listen to, it will literally be all French to you. ACDM reminded the Klown of the Irish black metal collective known as Primordial.

The tracks “Le Sang, La Mort, La Chute” and “Dans la Joie” will definitely back the Klown’s claim. Passionate Behemoth fans will LOVE  “Contemplare L’abîme” because it sounds just like an up-and-coming Behemoth with vocals sounding similar to that of a young Adam “Nergal” Darski. “La Fin du Monde” is a perfect closer to this brooding album because it gives you a dark harmony the way a lovely kvlt Dane by the name of Myrkur knows how. If you don’t mind French lyrics and are kvlt AF, lend this quartet an ear, the Klown recommends them. Also this album is perfect for Primordial, Myrkur and Bathory fans!

5 out of 6, Viva La France et Au Champ des Morts!

Straight outta France

Deserted Fear Will Wash Away Your Fears

The German death metal trio released their third album to date titled Dead Shore Rising through Century Media Records. “The Fall of Leaden Skies” will take you on an journey similar to that of Amon Amarth and Himsa right after the semi epic sounding intro. “The Edge of Insanity” was pretty kick ass to get a pit started and keep it going during a live performance. “Till the Last Drop” was a great song and great background for the Klown to drink when he’s getting sauced at the bar. “Carry On,” on the other hand, was a little slow and melodic but maintained its brutal edge making the perfect closer for these brutal gents. Deserted Fear delivered a good album especially for those who are big fans of Himsa, Poison Headache and Amon Amarth.

5 out of 6, This will leave you thirsty for more!

Deserted Fear really put the the death in death metal

Kreator Produce Their Most Divine Album to Date

And now… the Klown will talk about the highly anticipated album brought to us by two German giants: Nuclear Blast Records and thrash legends Kreator! Unless you have been living under a rock, the Klown can only say that he feels sorry for you! Kreator has been teasing Gods of Violence since late last year. The Klown is happy to report that these fine men from the Rhineland have delivered. The Klown’s favorite track is “Satan Is Real,” which is basically the soundtrack to the devoted metal head in you. “Gods of Violence” and “Hail to the Hordes” may now be Metal’s new anthems. These two tracks have the works; a build up, great solos, and the chorus. “Death Becomes My Light” is literally the prefect closer to this album because just like the previous entries, it’s appropriately slow and melodic for a thrash song that doesn’t compromise the thrash sound.

6 out of 6, The German Pantheon of Thrash Proves to be as Brutal as Ever!

Kreator effortlessly prove why they are legends!

Wanna Be Part of Our New Segment?!??

Kicking off this segment are Nattevakt, from our backyard… literally.
(L to R: Bassist/backing vocalist Brydø, vocalist/lead guitarist The Lunacy and drummer/backing vocalist LaVey)

UP AND COMING/UNSIGNED BANDS AND MUSICIANS OF PUNK, AND METAL (Industrial and Goth are welcomed too!) LEND US YOUR EARS!

It’s not all fun and games and beers in the life of an unknown band or musician, which is why we would love to help you get willingly exploited! 😉

If you have new and brootal music and not enough people to indulge on it, send us any new material you have lying around the ol’ demo bin to our email address below. You can also be our brazen but psycho EX and cyber stalk us…by messaging us through our Facebook page with the goods you gots to offer.

ONE MORE THING. In order for us to properly wine and dine you and show you off to our friends, don’t be shy and tell us a little bit about your band. If you’re a strong and independent  musician who don’t need no band, tell us about your musical conquests. A little bio never hurt anyone and bios are bae. 🙂

Can you smell the beer and the rock stardom?! We can’t but doesn’t mean you shouldn’t! We may not get to everyone but we will try our best to keep up and shine the spotlight on different  bands and musicians.  Whoa there!!!! Settle down guys! Don’t rush all at once….

Reach out and touch us at: ughnams at gmail dot com (subject line “first impressions“)

Don’t forget to cyber stalk us on Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat (SC: ugh_metal)

*The Hatchet Job: Jan 23-27

*Editor’s Note: “First Impressions” had an existential crisis and embarked on a personal quest for a new meaning to reinvent itself and so on. From now on this weekly recap shall be reborn as the Hatchet Job! Stay tuned for “First Impressions” return and its countless stories of self discovery and enlightenment and such.

Jan.23

A New ‘Era’ Is Upon Us

We took an insightful stroll with Opeth in their new music video for “Era” where shit gets real. Now I’m not one to be picky on a first date but I was hoping these Swedes would have invited me to a walk among the flowers or a food truck festival but I suppose their proggy charm would suffice. The crispness and mesmerizing imagery will have you drooling with wonder and it will also bring a smile to your face when you see No-Face from Spirited Away slay his cameo.

Jan.24

Cryptopsy Tour

These brootal Canucks along with Metal Sucks will be taking by storm the U.S as the headliners for this year’s Devastation on the Nation Tour. The technical death metallers will begin their rounds on May 19 and will be joined by throughout the tour by Decrepit Birth (5/19-6/4), Rivers of Nihil (5/19-6/4), The Zenith Passage (5/19-6/4), The Kennedy Veil (5/19-5/29), Visceral Disgorge (5/30-6/11), Gloom and Seeker (5/30-6/11). Stay tuned for the dates!

Jan.25

You Can’t ‘Deny’ This Powerful Video

Ugh Metal has had the pleasure of experiencing the intoxicating rawness and gloom of King Woman, and for those that have not been exposed to this doomy quartet, you are missing out. Still think I’m exaggerating? Well, experience the power of their latest music video for “Deny.” For those that have surrendered to Kristina Esfandiari’s hauntingly beautiful vocals, stay tuned for their sophomore album Created in the Image of Suffering out on Feb.24 via Relapse Records.  

Jan. 26

Mastodon FINALLY Put Out

…The deetz on their upcoming album! After trolling and teasing us so much they finally gave in to temptation and unveiled the sick ass artwork and tracklist for Emperor of Sand which will divide and conquer in March 31 via Reprise Records. Speaking of dividing and conquering and debauchery, be sure to catch these colorful Georgians on tour along with Eagles of Death Metal and Russian Circles starting on April 14.

Someone give this man a Gatorade. 

Jan.27

Bewitched with the ‘Sultan’s Curse’

Though this may be shaping up to be the unofficial Mastodon edition of this segment, how could I resist sharing this baby!

Kreator Reigns In ‘Totalitarian Terror’

The trilogy comes full circle with this music video. I will miss that horny devil and his Colgate worthy grin. Mad props to Polish production team Grupa 13 for weaving another masterpiece and Kreator for kicking ass. Half-assed acceptance speeches and statements aside, the fun doesn’t have to end! Why, you ask? ‘Cause the generosity of Kreator continues with their release of Gods of Violence which is out today!! Stay tuned for Chuggo’s review on this baby!

WWE’s Wrestling Branch Will Feature Papa Shango’s Band

Only 90’s kids will remember Papa Shango and his WWF days… I sure don’t but that’s okay! Don’t hate me ‘cuz I was too young and beautiful but enough about me, WWE’s NXT Wrestling branch will use ballsy music (in terms of mainstream) in their Pay Per View event “Takeover: San Antonio” on Jan. 27. Papa Shango’s successful project called Ghost [citation needed] will be featured along with Memphis May Fire, Starset and NF. To NXT’s credit, they’ve featured other metal bands in the past such as Motorhead, Halestorm, and Babymetal. According to my intel *cough* Chuggo*cough* what started out as a failed reality TV project, it blossomed into WWE’s fun and badass younger sister.

The Trials of January 20

Aversions Crown Coronate their Third Album

The quartet from Down Under has returned with their latest deathcore release titled Xenocide under Nuclear Blast Records. The Klown swears that it’s neither President Trump’s or Australia’s Alt-Right soundtrack. This album reminded the Klown of two local death metal bands, Carnifex and Cattle Decapitation. The point here is that this album kicks ass! “Prismatic Abyss” was good but “The Soulless Acolyte” alone will support the Klown’s claim to this sound and it’s a track that will definitely get a pit started in a live show. “Erebus,” “Ophiophagy” and “The Oracles of Existence” sounded like another Nuclear Blast deathcore signee, Despised Icon. This was a good album especially if deathcore happens to be your thing. This latest album is also highly recommended for All Shall Perish fans.

6 out of 6, Monarchs to the Kingdom of Hate

Try staring at Aversions Crown “Xenocide” cover…*drools*

 

Terrifier Unleash Their Weapons of Thrash Destruction

Unless skipping titles is your thing, the Klown has to ask: how do you know what you’re about to read? Whatever your answer is, titles are just appetizers! Now for the main course, the Canadian thrash quintet known as Terrifier have released their sophomore album Weapons of Thrash Destruction through Test Your Metal Records. Allow the Klown to let you know that he definitely was digging this album. He really thought that he was listening to Death Angel, especially when he was hearing “Deceiver.” “Nuclear Demolisher” had the Klown thinking what if Mark Osegueda vocals were a bit harsher and did a song with Testament? Just saying, imagine Alex Skolnik’s legendary solos accompanying Osegueda’s vocals! These fine gents also provided yours truly with a theme song appropriately titled “Drunk As Fuck.” Bay Area thrash enthusiasts will LOVE this!

6 out of 6, Ready To Launch

Terrifier bust out their “Weapons of Thrash Destruction”

 

AFI Returns With A Bloody Vengeance

The Klown can hear it now… the collective groaning. “WTF Klown, that’s not metal!?” Or “Shut up Clown, you’re very drunk … or sober!?” To that the Klown would retort, that you address the Klown with a “K” not a “C!” But more importantly, whether you’re “metal AF” or a person who wants to prove that they are on par to Kerry King, we all have guilty pleasures! Without further ado, AFI has released their 10th album AFI (The Blood Album) through Concord Records. This album slightly revisits the last albums, Love Crash and Burials, however, “So Beneath You” takes you back to an upbeat version of the Sing the Sorrow album. “Dumb Kids” is catchy and harmonic as hell gives a bit of punk and indie influences. “She Speaks the Language,” in typical AFI fashion, was melodic and dark much like Decemberunderground. Not a bad album for AFI to end their (nearly) 4 year hiatus.

4 out of 6, You’ll still stick your fangs in this in the name of nostalgia! 

Deny it all you want, you know that emo kid inside you will devour AFI’s “The Blood Album”

 

Firewind Immortalize Their Newest Release After a 5 Year Hiatus

The Klown believes that Firewind was mentioned a while back. Now it’s the Klown’s turn to talk about the brand new release from these Greeks. Immortals was released through Century Media Records  and the Klown loved it. This concept album lived to its name by paying homage to the glory and beauty of a well fought battle. Although the Klown liked Sabaton’s take on “Battle of Thermopylae” featured in The Last Stand, these Greeks one-up the Swedes with their version. “Ode to Leonidas” does justice as a tribute and an ode to the fallen warrior king and will have 300 fans and proud Greeks rejoicing. This ode’s set up works great with the help of its previous and following tracks, “We Defy” and “Back on the Throne” respectively. “Lady of 1000 Sorrows” will make you feel all sorts of things because this sympathetic ballad voices those that have experienced the grueling wait and unwavering hope of seeing their soldier return from war. Firewind also tops this baby off with an extra track, “Vision of Tomorrow” which not only kicks ass but lead guitarist, Gus G, shreds away.

6 out of 6, Leonidas Would Be Proud!

Firewind make their triumphant return with “Immortals”

**Bonus Round**

Memoriam Will Remind You of Britain’s Death Metal Pioneers

Bolt Thrower fans! I have good news and bad news. First, the bad: No longer known as Bolt Thrower, Memoriam will release their debut album in March. Good news: Memoriam has released their demo The Hellfire Demos II through Nuclear Blast Records. Let’s just say that if you longed for some new Bolt Thrower material, this will definitely calm that itch. The Klown also checked their first EP The Hellfire Demos I which you can check out on their bandcamp! Simply put, the Klown can’t wait till their debut in March. No rating since it’s only 2 songs but you should take a hit!

Memorium lives again with “The Hellfire Demos II”

The Hatchet Job of Jan. 15- Jan. 20

Jan. 15

Zakk Wylde Answers Our ‘Lost Prayer’

The master of riffs has blessed us with his latest and powerful music video for his latest single “Lost Prayer.” Zakk Wylde’s 2016 album Book Of Shadows II continues to work its charm with its video and if you missed his sold out Jan.19 San Diego stop for his Zakk Sabbath tour, check out the other dates. Now sit back and get ready for some spiritual healing.

 

Jan. 16

The ‘Fvneral Moon’ Requires A Sacrifice

“Ask and you shall receive” couldn’t be truer for the latest music video from deathcore metallers Lorna Shore. The quartet from New Jersey take us on a murder mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Though I’ve personally never taken a dip in Lorna Shore before, “Fvneral Moon” is a very enjoyable and heavy single which will be featured in their upcoming album Flesh Coffin out on Feb. 17 via Outerloop Records. If you’re still butt hurt about Suicide Silence’s clean vocals and have a need to forget about it, Lorna Shore’s got you covered.

 

Jan. 17

THE EMPIRE WILL STRIKE THIS SUMMER…

No, not the Prez’s empire nor the new Star Wars saga, I’m talking about the REAL empire where Vader reigns supreme. The Polish death metal icons will kick off their invasion on North America starting May 26 in the Maryland Death Fest and because they don’t hate the idea of our beaches, our delicious craft beers and just flat out don’t hate us, they will be stopping by here in San Diego on June 7 at Brick By Brick! (This is NOT the only San Diego show headlined by metal legends this year…)

The supporting acts on this brootal tour are Internal Bleeding, Sacrificial Slaughter, Micawber and Voices of Ruin. If you’re old like us, those names might make your deteriorating body quiver with anticipated pain but as the motto goes, sticks and stones may break our frail bones but metal will never hurt us… be sure to check your local listings for Ugh Metal’s after party in the nearest ER and be part of the crusade!

It’s ‘Sentence Day’

Obituary has spoken! The Death Metal legends released their track video for their single “Sentence Day” which will be featured in their 10^th and self titled album via Relapse Records. Though the album is not expected to hit shelves till March 17, this video will certainly fan your fandom especially not just because it’s a love letter to their faithful legion but it’s a fun glimpse into their tour life. Also, be sure to catch them in the Decibel Tour this Spring!

Jan. 19

More Than Just ‘Sillhouttes’

Warbringer stand out and kick some major as with their latest music video for their single “Silhouttes.” Surrounding objects and décor beware! ‘Cause this thrashtastic wonder will have you tearing a new one in the room you’re currently in. Stay tuned for more thrashy goodies from these guys as they gear up for their March 31^st release of Woe to the Vanquished via Napalm Records, till then check out the video below!

 

Iron Reagan Honors The New Prez

That’s right, the crossover thrashers unearthed and released a never before heard ballad to celebrate the inauguration of the new President of the United States of America. The ballad praising the heroism and honor the new commander in chief posses is titled “Take The Fall.” I must warn you; this touching musical piece will bring a few tears to your eyes. The single is now available in a flexi disc format for New Noise Magazine subscribers and all proceeds for the 18×24 poster commemorating the Trumpster will go to the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Check out the track right here!

Jan. 20

Havok Offers Another Wonderful Song For Inauguration Day

The Colorado thrashers have joined in on the fun and joined today’s celebration of American infamy history with their lyric video for “Hang ‘Em High.” You bet this anthem will be sung loudly and proudly tonight making this day more unforgettable. “Hang ‘Em High” will be featured in their March 10 album titled Conformicide which will be released through Century Media Records.

The Trials of January 13: The Lucky #13 Edition!

Note: This year has been serendipitous already… or so the Klown thinks. Anyway, Happy Jason Voorhees Day! Historically, Friday the 13^th has always had bad luck omen and innuendos attached to it, thankfully we are cynics! In fact, as of writing this entry, it seems that our beloved genre has come back full swing and has also come out of a holiday rest of its own.

Black Anvil Release Their Fourth on Friday 13, As Was Their Intentions

The black metal New Yorkers known as Black Anvil have released As Was and this album manages to keep the kvlt melodic and turn your luck upside up. Unlike Hail Death, As Was is a bit faster by comparison and…did the Klown mention that this album is melodic? For the tracks “On Forgotten Ways” and “As An Elder Learned Anew,” the Klown thought he was listening to lost Rotting Christ tracks or a very melodic and heavy Melechesh… minus the Middle Eastern instruments. The Klown enjoyed “May Her Wrath Be Just” as it reminded him of a Septicflesh song without the orchestrations mixed with a ghastly chorus to back up the song’s melody. “As Was” is the most melodic track of the whole album, the Klown thinks the metal ladies would appreciate this more. “Ultra” was the Klown’s personal favorite, not only was it a hymn for the dark one but was very melodic and felt like an appropriate closer for this album and its current theme. The Klown recommends this album for those who are Melechesh and Rotting Christ fans.

6 out of 6, This Album Is Best As Was

Black Anvil return with their 4th installment “As Was”

 

Grave Digger Is The Remedy To Our 2016 Blues

The Klown believes he and his favorite sibling have talked about Grave Digger in a sickly fashion. No pun intended, the flu is a hell of a thing! Anyway, these German power metal legends show that age is nothing but a number and have graced us with the healing powers of metal. Their current and 18^th installment, Healed by Metal, brings the masses a remedy that every headbanger of all ages needs in their time of need. “When Night Falls” is inspirational and eerily appropriate for those needing to express devotion in anyway while “Lawbreaker” is a track that takes you back to a younger Grave Digger. Do you sometimes need a song to motivate your resilience? These gents back you up with “Call For War.” Need proof that our genre is more of a religion than art? Grave Digger got us covered by issuing the “Ten Commandments of Metal” and provided “Hallelujah” as an added measure. Grave Digger also provides two kickass, bonus tracks: “Kingdom of the Night” and “Bucket List.” It’s nearly 40 years (this November it shall be 37 to be precise) since these Germans have graced our scene and made a name for themselves. This brand new installment showed that time is an illusion and that Grave Digger can be enjoyed at any time amongst the young and old!

6 out 6, THE Cure Of All Cures

Grave Digger resurrected us and we were “Healed By Metal”

 

Code Orange’s Third Installment May Forever Be Their Breakthrough

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, Code Orange has been making head way since the last quarter of 2016. Because the Klown wants to exaggerate, they seemed to have become a household name especially among the hardcore punkers. Enough about last year, this year the Pittsburgher quartet known as Code Orange has released Forever and will keep you guessing and in a good way. Let’s just say that tracks like “Forever” and “The New Reality” sound similar to that of Nails if they slowed down a bit. This piece, however, plays with almost every subgenre in metal, such as “Bleeding in the Blur” and “Ugly” taps in to the prog sound similar to that of The Ocean whereas “The Mud” gives you a bit of Nine Inch Nails, “Spy” plays around with Nu Metal and “dream2” give you a bit of the Dillinger Escape Plan. Forever will leave you curious and clamoring for some more.

6 out of 6, This Album is Not Hazardous

Code Orange “Forever,” baby!

 

Sepultura Still Going Strong

Sepultura, for some, has been long gone after Max and Igor Cavalera departed in 1997 and 2006, respectively. Though Andreas Kisser and Paolo Junior kickass and are not the founding fathers, they have been with the band long enough to be considered originals. Despite no original members left, this great Brazilian export is still going strong and pumped out album number 14 titled Machine Messiah. Anyway, this album was definitely a great surprise for the Klown as it revisited all of the Sepultura incarnations with Derrick Green. We get a bit of Roorback and Nation with some Kairos, The Mediator, and Against. For those who loathed Against, relax “Iceberg Dances” is not that bad; the track does an excellent job blending classical guitars and keyboards. The Klown definitely took an immediate liking to “Phantom Self” and “Alethea.” “Phantom Self” does a great job mixing jazz style percussions with orchestral overtures to create a great track. “Alethea” kicks ass and sticks to good ol’ fashion metal reminiscent to an old Sepultura when they were still thrashy. Sepultura also treat us to two bonus tracks, “Chosen Skin” and a cover of The Echoes’ “Ultraseven No Uta”. This album was great and features different musical elements from previous albums making a creative masterpiece.

6 out of 6, The Messiah Hath Cometh!

All hail Sepultura and the “Machine Messiah”

The Hatchet Job of Jan 9-13

Jan 9.

I HAVE FOUND MY SPIRIT ANIMAL

Not all is fun and kawaii in the land of Sanrio. The Japanese company that brought us Hello Kitty have created the super relatable red panda Aggretsuko who struggles with the peskiness of adulthood and a horrible day job…BLEH! Instead of going postal, Aggretsuko does what any sane individual does and blasts some good ol’ heavy metal and has a beer… or three. For my eligible and single red pandas reading this, she is 25 years young and is single and ready to mingle! Oh…what’s that Aggretsuko? Still no luck in finding a decent suitor? Join the club sister. While Aggretsuko and I go drown our sorrows together, give her some love and check her out.

 

Jan.10

‘Sacrificial Kill’ Will Make You Want To Be The Offering

Six Feet Under gave us a taste of what to expect from their Feb.24 release of their upcoming album Torment via Metal Blade Records. If Chris Barnes’ signature barks didn’t make your skin crawl with excitement nor tickle your fancy, Barnes announced in his Twitter account two days before about a song “on the new album that, lyrically, was a sequel to Fucked With A Knife…” I’ll give you a minute to process that and while you’re at it, check out the single to accompany your squeals of excitement.      

Jan.11

We Went ‘Beyond The Matrix’

Nope, no Neo this time. Simone Simons’ powerful vocals, along with the rest of Epica, blasted us through an unforgettable and inspiring journey with their latest music video for “Beyond The Matrix.” The track comes off of their latest album The Holographic Principle which was released on Sept.30 and will guarantee transcendence. I know you’ll be adding “Beyond The Matrix” to you new year, new me gym playlist, and the cherry on top? You can sing along to it once you catch your breath in between your workouts! ‘Cause the powerful lyrics splash on to this cosmic treat.

A Night At The Opera With Dimmu Borgir

Okay, I lied. No opera but an orchestra which is just as bitchin’! The Norwegian black metallers will FINALLY release their anticipated live DVD/CD collaboration with the Norwegian Radio Orchestra &Choir titled Forces of the Northern Night on April 14 through Nuclear Blast Records. This beauty was filmed in Wacken Open Air 2012 and brought to life and according to their official Facebook page the band stated  “And beware… this is not the only gem that the year 2017 holds for DIMMU BORGIR.” YASSSSSSSSSS!!!!!

Jan.12

WE “BLEED THE FIFTH”

Iron Reagan show us how a real good cop and bad cop ought to be! The crossover thrashers released their official music video for “Bleed The Fifth” from their upcoming Feb.3 release of Crossover Ministry via Relapse Records. This fun video is one hell of a ride where you probably won’t be calling shotgun…JK! You know you like the abuse, enjoy it 😉

Jan.13

Me And That Man’s NSFW Video Will Have You Saying Hallelujah!

The highly anticipated Blues project from Behemoth frontman, Adam “Nergal” Darski and British-Polish songwriter John Porter, have finally given us a taste of what they’ve been brewing in secrecy with “My Church Is Black.” This naughty and sacramental offering will be featured in the debut album titles Songs Of Love And Death which will be release in March 24 through Cooking Vinyl. So bust out your best bourbon and prepare to go on a journey.

The Trials of the New Year… and Yesteryear!

The Klown’s Note: Greetings and salutations to all. If you keep up with us, sorry for the sudden disappearing act and happy holidays, to you! For some, the holidays are over but for others like my Hispanic peeps that keep up with us, as of this writing, Feliz Dia de los Reyes Magos! On that note, here are some late stocking stuffers for the metal heads celebrating who are looking for some tunes to give or for themselves! But first let me introduce the last batch of 2016 releases that stood out before kicking it to the curb! Before the Klown forgets, Ugh Metal would like to send out their condolences to the victims and the surviving members of the shooting that occurred in Ft. Lauderdale. That should not be a way to ring in the New Year.

December 23: Nine Inch Nails Release was Festive and Eventful

If you thought that after the randomness the legendary Trent Reznor had going on after his marriage and The Social Network composition was the end of Nine Inch Nails, you were dead wrong! I believe we told you about it *cough* read it *cough* before we went MIA and our unfaithful hellhounds posted our faces on the back of milk cartons. The latest EP is titled Not The Actual Events and It’s much like their last studio album Hesitation Marks and this EP is reminiscent of that album. After the introductory track “Branches/Bones,” “Dear World” follows soon after and begins resonates with the Year Zero album. All the while, the rest of the EP relives the days of an earlier NIN of the Pretty Hate Machine and The Downward Spiral variety. This was the perfect Christmas gift for the most hardcore NIN fan and those who love industrial to death!

6 out of 6, Reznor’s return was the actual event!

Nine Inch Nails surprise the masses with their latest EP “Not The Actual Events”

 

December 31^st: Demonseed Helps Dispose 2016 with Sophomore Album

The Texan death metal quintet emerged and gave us quite a surprise in 2016 by releasing Human Disposal Syndicate, nearly 13 years after their debut studio album! Nevertheless, these gents provided the Klown with a soundtrack to flip off 2016 and ring in 2017. The track “Human Disposal Syndicate” gets shit stirred and going with some extra added brutality. Listening to this album had yours truly thinking that he was listening to a brutal version of The Black Dahlia Murder. “A Hopeless Concentration of Carnal Misery” and “Mongolian Death Worm,” however, made the Klown feel as he was listening to a slightly heavier version of Blood Red Throne. Lastly, “Searching Through the Carcass of a Hooker” and “A Beast in the Field” sounded like Kronos. This album was pretty awesome and proves that patience truly is a virtue and has its rewards. The Klown highly recommends this album to diehard fans of the brutal death metal subgenre and for those looking for a band with a Cannibal Corpse motif in the term of artwork and song titles!

6 out 6, Just Another 6 Away from Being A Complete Demon

Demonseed sure know how to throw a party as seen in the cover of “Human Disposal Syndicate”

 

January 6

Mordskog Releases Their Long Awaited Debut

Kvltists will rejoice! The Black Metal trio from Mexico City known as Mordskog has finally damned blessed us with a debut titled XIII. Die hard Black Metal fans are definitely going to love this album, especially because the trio bring out the spirit of old school Black Metal with thrash metal overtones, which is rather evident in their track “Mors Est Vitae Essentia.” If you are learning Spanish or thought that Black Metal was only done in English, German or in Scandinavian dialects, this trio incorporates some Spanish in their music much like their track “Nascentes Morimur.” Don’t worry though, it’s really more Spanglish than actual Spanish. Mordskog was slowly making rounds in the metal scene and quietly rose especially among the growing Latin American Black Metal scene and they delivered. Although the album is still a little rough, it was a good start for these Chilangos to start making some noise. Expect these guys to really surprise us with a strong breakthrough album in the near future!

5 out 6, Good Luck Keeping These Mexicans Behind The Border, President Trump!

We won’t let Prez Trump deport this unholy good from Mordskog titled “XIII”

Dropkick Murphys Kick Off The New Year with their 9^th Album

The Klown is aware that the Dropkick Murphys are Celtic Punk but it wouldn’t be the first punk band we have featured. In fact, it wouldn’t be the first non-metal album review that the Klown has done! So without further ado, these Irishmen from the infamous Quincey neighborhood of Boston have returned and have bestowed on us 11 Short Stories of Pain & Glory. The Klown had no idea it was coming out and he was stoked when he found it. Although this album is not The Warrior’s Code nor Signed and Sealed in Blood, it’s still good and revisits more of the Oi scene at times especially with “Until The Next Time” and was an overall great traditional Celtic punk rock album. For a lot of us, the tracks “Blood,” “Sandlot,” “First Class Loser” and “Paying My Way” hit home and is a soundtrack for the youngins that are aging and present… like yours truly! It’s a fun album to get your hands on and, for the cynics in all of us, a reminder of what the mood of 2017 might be after inauguration day.

6 out of 6, This Album Has Been Shipped Out Of Boston!

Dropkick Murphys are back with a vengeance!

Ugh Metal Presents: The Best Albums of 2016

WARNING: Some of the following albums did not have the pleasure to be reviewed by us, but they were certainly doted on.

We have finally crossed the finish line in to 2017! 2016 will go down in history and infamy (depending on how you see it) but not all was bleak and surreal because the devil sent us a lot of fine albums down our chimney… Here’s our top 5 best albums.

Chuggo’s Pick

5. Death Angel- The Evil Divide AND Testament- Brotherhood of The Snake

Bare with the Klown a bit, he had a tough time truly pinpointing what the best was. After all, yours truly is the primary judge of the album reviews for Ugh Metal. But the number five spot kicks off with the underrated Bay Area Thrash legends, Testament. This album has been out for a month and immediately had the Klown blasting this mother a little too much. It was great and it proved that Chuck Billy and Alex Skolnick have no plans of slowing down.

Death Angel, on the other hand, had this permanent two legged New Year’s party really high. The Klown loves Death Angel and for some reason still remain underrated, the best thing about this album was the fact that Death Angel explored something they’re not entirely known for. What the Klown speaks of is speed, nothing wrong with Death Angel’s usual M.O. but this time they really wanted everyone to know of their return with a vengeance. This album was angry but therapeutic.

Favorite Song(s): Death Angel: The Moth, Father of Lies and Lost

Testament: The Brotherhood of the Snake, The Pale King and Stronghold

Death Angel and Testament can not divide the crown

 

4. Nails- You Will Never Be One Of Us

What can the Klown say? This album was an adrenaline junkies’ dream! From beginning to end it was pure testosterone and mayhem… and it was fucking awesome. This album was highly anticipated before its release and it delivered! 1000%! Todd Jones showed the world that whether the tracks are seconds long or up to 8-plus minutes, the results are all about quality not so much quantity. But most importantly, when “You Will Never Be One Of Us” was set as the first single, you knew you were in for a treat and know that Nails were beginning to set the bar high!

Favorite Song(s): The whole album

3. Avatar- Feathers And Flesh

Before you judge, this judge, the Klown is well aware that he didn’t give a verdict to this album. To be fair, Ugh Metal wasn’t born yet at the time of this release. With that said, allow the Klown to tell you peeps that he loved this album. My clown-like mentor, Johannes Eckerström, did a great job showing off his mastery of his vocals and eccentricity to us Americans! When the Klown first heard “The Eagle Has Landed” he was entranced and wondered who they were when his YouTube Music randomly played it… then of course, the radio soon followed. Unfortunately, Avatar have been given the Rammstein treatment here in our humble abode. “Du Hast” isn’t the only song Rammstein has, just like Avatar has more songs to offer than “The Eagle…” Rock 105.3! So when yours truly invested on the album, he was blown away!

Favorite Song(s): New Land, Tooth, Beak & Claw, For the Swarm, Fiddler’s Farewell and Black Waters

Ladies and gentlemen, our heroes have returned again…

 

2. Fleshgod Apocalypse- King AND Vader- The Empire

Alright… the Klown won’t invest too much time on Vader. Don’t get the Klown wrong, he loved the album but not enough to take the number one spot. That’s due to the fact that it’s been out for a little over a month! Still, he loved the shit out of this highly anticipated album! It definitely made him believe that Welcome to the Morbid Reich had found an equal. But most importantly, he also rated this album.

With that said, the Klown will talk about another album of the pre-Ugh-Metal existence, Fleshgod Apocalypse’s King. Since he heard about the album’s development last year, he was stoked and giddy like a children’s party clown! Of course, when “The Fool” came out, the Klown knew that he was going to be in for a treat of epic proportions. It was incredibly imminent once their intro track “Marche Royale” began and finished. This Italian powerhouse, proving that you can take the Italians out of Italy but not the Italy from the Italians, give you class without having to sacrifice your headbanging, moshing and horn-raising tendencies. Fleshgod Apocalypse brought some elegance with their Soprano opera singing beauty, Veronica Bordacchini, and gave her and their pianist, Francesco Ferrini, a platform on their seventh track “Paramour (Die Leidenschaft Bringt Leiden).”

Favorite Song(s): Fleshgod Apocalypse: In Aeternum, The Fool, Mitra, And The Vulture Beholds, A Million Deaths and Syphilis

Vader: Angels of Steel, Genocidius, The Army-geddon, Feel My Pain, Parabellum

Vader and Fleshgod Apocalypse were two powerful empires that reigned together.

1. Abbath (Self Titled Album) AND Dark Funeral- Where Shadows Forever Reign

Just like the previous, the Klown will not invest too much time on Dark Funeral because its an album he rated. Since his verdict, the Klown hasn’t really stopped playing this dark masterpiece. Just to give you peeps an idea, the Klown unchained his ears and speaker volume, when he heard “Unchain My Soul.”

On that note, allow the Klown to place the shared crown on this black metal legend’s head. Abbath released his self titled debut album on a pre-Ugh-Metal album era, which was January and since then, I haven’t stopped playing it. Thankfully, one of the masters of Bergen, Norway released this masterpiece in 2016 and gave us a much needed touch of epicness for what already began to look like a gloomy year. Abbath gave us some Immortal and the short lived supergroup I, followed by some more original material. Most importantly, he unleashed his inner Rob Halford and gave it a touch of kvlt. Just to conclude this coronation, whether or not you are “kvlt” this album spoke volumes and demonstrated why Abbath is a legendary king, even if his departure from Immortal wasn’t.

Favorite Song(s): Dark Funeral and Abbath,The whole album.

Abbath and Dark Funeral will share the icy throne as #1

Honorable Mentions: *Rotting Christ- Rituals, Anthrax- For All Kings, Hatebreed- Concrete Confessionals, Darkthrone- Tundra Leech, Soulfly- Archangel, Nephilim – Disciplined and Witchery – In His Infernal Majesty’s Service

*Chuggo’s Note: A mea culpa is in order for the underrated and legendary Rotting Christ. Before the list was finalized, he thought Rotting Christ’s Ritual was a 2015 release. Boy… does the Klown need a new hobby; it should have been a top 5, because he loved that album! Nevertheless, they deserve a mention because it was a superb album and shows that these Greeks’ gifts need no precaution!

Jenny Oh’s Pick

5. Lordi- Monsteroephonic (Theaterror vs. Demonarchy)

Regardless of how you feel about bands that have a specific gimmick, you will love these guys if you enjoy a good dose of keyboards with a dash of some old school heavy metal… but not too old school! In Monsterophonic these Finnish monsters return back to the nostalgia along with their recurring theme of b-horror movies making it a scary, good ride!

Favorite Song(s): Hug You Hardcore, The Night The Monsters Died, Mary Is Dead, Let’s Go Slaughter He-Man.

Lordi invades Earth in time for Halloween with “Monstereophonic (Theaterror vs. Demonarchy)”

4. Avatar- Feathers and Flesh

These guys have been quietly bubbling beneath the surface and have finally made their grand entrance in to American airwaves (I’m looking at you “The Eagle Has Landed”). These Swedes have been at it for almost 16 years and grabbed everyone’s attention with Feathers and Flesh because it’s as eccentric and entertaining like their vocalist Johannes Eckerström. Avatar adds a much needed lightheartedness and fun in to metal and fearlessly play with different musical styles in this album.   

Favorite Song(s): The whole album!

Ladies and gentlemen, our heroes have returned again…

3. Abbath (Self Titled Album)

ABBAAAAAAATH! He blew me away much like the rabid arctic winds with his debut self titled album. The moment you hear the distinct and orgasmic riffs of “To War” followed by “Winter Bane” you know its game over. Whatever your feelings are about Abbath’s new solo endeavors, you gotta give credit to where credit is due. Abbath is seething with raw pent up energy and oozes kvlt. It was an exciting and mind blowing start for this Norwegian Black Metal legend and let me just say, I can’t wait to see what Mr.Abbath will craft next.

Favorite Song(s): Winter Bane, Ashes Of The Damned, Nebular Ravens Winter.

Abbath returns with a vengeance.

2. Pain- Coming Home

This album had the ability to take you on a journey of debauchery and growth. Coming Home had all the good stuff we can all relate to and tapped in to the most common and primal desires. For those that have explored the world and have gone through hell and heaven and back, “Coming Home” will tug at your heart strings and voices that yearning we all have to return to where we came from. Mastermind and vocalist, Peter Tägtgren, has been a very busy man and after five years, he still managed to create an album that will slowly creep into your brain and voice your most basic wants. It was a fun, dirty and wide-eyed little album with a heart of gold. Peter Tägtgren is bae!

Favorite Song(s): Coming Home, Call Me, Black Light Satellite, A Wannabe… THE WHOLE DAMN ALBUM!

The artwork for Pain’s 8th studio album “Coming Home”

1. Rotting Christ- Rituals

 There’s so many things to say about this particular album and not enough syllables, intonations and words in the English language to express my feelings about Rituals. This is why I will state it in Greek. Jk! I’m not that talented or cultured but I will say this, listening to this album felt otherworldly and casted some serious magic. These Greek extreme metal vets have been creating dark, theatrical and heavily underrated masterpieces for 30 years and have yet to get the praise they deserve. Rituals will change your life and will make you dust off your ceremonial robe or prepare for battle!

Favorite Song(s): In Nomine Dei Nostri, The Four Horsemen, Konx Om Pax.

Rotting Christ reigns supreme in my countdown!

Honorable Mentions: Vader-The Empire, Serpentine Dominion, Okilly Dokilly, Thrown Into Exile-Safe Inside, Sonata Arctica- The Ninth Hour, Ghost- Popestar (EP), Death Angel- The Evil Divide, Opeth- Sorceress