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Metallica Title: Death Magnetic Label: Warner Bros. Year: 2008 Rating: My boys. My boys are back in town and this time they ain't messin' around! upon hearing the first track off Death Magnetic, 'The Day That Never Comes,' I was a little adamant about hearing the rest since it didn't symbolize to me the return of the kings of metal. But after one spin of the whole record, it was apparent, the kings of metal are back to reclaim the throne. My god, I was blown away at what I heard. I can clearly say that thsi record vies for the 'Record of the Year' spot for me. I mean, it was a return back to form for these guys and after a few albums without substance, I was afraid they'd never get their wings back. Well, low and behold, Death Magnetic is truly a classic Metallica album with bells and whistles. Song after song, I became a true fan again and the whole album is quite impressive. Chugging riffs, solos(welcome back Kirk!), power drums, awesome bass lines and the trademark voice of none other than the mighty James Hetfield spitting venom again. I love this album and as I write this, I am blasting it in full with a frenzied smile. We all know that Metallica will never really truly go back to the days of Master of Puppets and Justice For All but this album is what Metallica sounds like revisting the old days and rolling with the new. Glad to see my boys annoying neighbors again and truly, from the heart, they've made a record that metal fans can be proud of again. The true kings of metal have once again, raised the bar that high. Thank you for coming back home to metal, where you always belonged. All Hail Metallica! Gian Erguiza - September 8, 2008 I Am Ghost Title: Those We Leave Behind Label: Epitaph Records Year: 2008 Rating: A powerful record is what I Am Ghost have built for 2008. Flying the flag for Screamo fans and bands everywhere, this record is a serious growth from their last. Steve's vocals are sounding better than ever and the band has more tenacity this time around. Electrifying riffs reverberate through song for song and the band sounds more polished than ever. Keeping true to their sound, the boys reinerate the catchy choruses backed by screaming vocals along with great rhythms. Although it's a great record overall, I did find the intro and the interlude a bit corny. The whole 'creepy whispering to you' just didn't come off right and sounded more annoying than creepy or whatever they were trying to go for. I do like the album cover of the girl looking dead but alive which I thought was pretty artistically clever. Some stand out tracks from the album are 'Burn The Bodies To The Ground,' 'Those We Leave Behind,' and the macho melody infused killer, 'Bone Garden.' I could also see these songs doing great in a live setting since most of the songs contain controlled but frenzied energy, which could really rile up the crowd. I really like this record compared to their older one and love the direction that the band is headed. I only see good things for this band in the future and hope that they continue on this path to make more great records. Gian Erguiza - September 15, 2008 The 88 Title: Not Only....But Also Label: Island Records Year: 2008 Rating: The debut major label album produced by Babyface will get the girlies and ghoulies swaying their heads left and right. I guess this is the equivalent of 90's bubble-gum pop which is why the undiscriminating will like it. Hell, their songs have been in movies, TV shows and ads (if placements in Failure to Launch, You Me and Dupree, Grey's Anatomy, The OC, Laguna Beach, Sears and Target is any indication) ... These boys have rocked the business more than they have the music! To be fair, its a good energy record-- they even slow it down to demonstrate a bit of range. Nothing out of the ordinary, but its not mediocre either. Track 8 "Like You Do" stands out as best it can... in a groovy sort of way. The 88 are playing in a genre so ubiquitous, it's hard not to be a one-hit-wonder... or rise above the crowd to say the least. Nevertheless, the band puts out a respectable record that adds a pretty note against the backdrop of cacophonous doppelgangers in the airwaves. Gayle Gatchalian - September 24, 2008 Amon Amarth Title: Twilight Of The Thunder God Label: Metal Blade Records Year: 2008 Rating: Genius. Amon Amarth has done it again! 'Twilight Of The Thunder God' is one freakin' awesome metal record. It has the depth of a metal record that few ever achieve. From the beginning notes of 'Twilight Of The Thunder God,' to the magnificent 'Live for The Kill,' you will be slayed. This viking metal is an iron ship, headed straight for the edge without fear. Johan Hegg's vocal delivery on this album is what a pissed off, beligerent, uncompromising king viking would sound like. Don't know what that sounds like? Listen up! Then you've got the metallic prowess of shredding guitarists Olavi Mikkonen and Johan Soderberg, ripping it up scale by scale, note per note. Thundering drums care of Fredrik Andersson. Bottom end monster sounds by Ted Lundstrom. One of the tracks that really puts Amon Amarth ahead of the rest is 'Guardians Of Asgaard.' This song is in the vein and direction of true Amon Amarth music full of attitude, full of darkness. Amon Amarth will also be part of the Unholy Alliance Tour III this year which should bring this band much more deserved fame, sharing the stage with Slayer and Trivium. I can hail this record as one of metal's best releases this year. This is one of those metal albums that you need to have in your collection, next to your Lamb Of God's, Slayer, and whatever top face melting music you've got. Gian Erguiza - September 23, 2008 Loquat Title: Secrets Of The Sea Label: Talking House Year: 2008 Rating: Vocalist Kylee Swenson makes love to the microphone and the listener's eardrums in every song of album 'Secrets of the Sea'. Despite the awkward harmonizing in track 1 "Harder Hit", her croon lulls to an almost hypnotizing extent-- not forceful, only gently magnetic. Halfway through the record in track 6, "These Kinds of Friends", Kylee finds her place in the realm of various voices and gets comfortable, playful, even adventurous and bold as the album explores an edgier sound. THe official press release calls them 'organic-meets-electronic guitar pop" quintet and rightfuly so. The electro overtones add an ethereality to the mellow, slightly sad record. Guitar dominates the sound but never overwhelms the songs. "SIt Sideways" is a personal favorite, though the entire record flows together like a wonderfully orchestrated soundtrack of a melancholy time. Perfect for a casual day. Gayle Gatchalian - September 22, 2008 Nurse With Wound Title: Huffin' Rag Blues Label: Durtro/Jnana Year: 2008 Rating: Let's start off by saying that I love the album cover of this album, it's truly creative, fresh and different. Aside from that, that's all I liked. I didn't quite understand the tone of this record. I'm not an expert in experimental records but boy, this one just didn't stick. Listening to the whole album, I didn't find an identity. The album lacked cohesiveness and just felt dull. The noises are extremely cool, don't get me wrong, but from a songwriters perspective, what were they thinking about? I felt like there wasn't that much thought put into this record and just fell completely flat. Hell, I might be the only reviewer to not 'get it' but it just didn't draw me in anyway. I do hear some talent in the record though but just felt way too loose overall without direction of any kind. Like I said, the album cover, magnificent, it asked to be listened to but once I got to the seventh song, I had enough. Sorry guys, next time. Gian Erguiza - September 19, 2008 Skindred Title: Roots Rock Riot Label: Bieler Bros. Year: 2008 Rating: This impressive record from Skindred is the outcome of growth from their last record. The album explodes with title-track 'Roots Rock Riot' which gives us the more heavier, grungier Skindred and then followed by 'Trouble' which comes off much like its predecessor. From the first two tracks alone, you can't help but nod your head in appreciation, especially with Benji's vocal styles hooking itself onto your ears. The different elements and styles of music incorporated into different songs also gives the album it's identity and establishes the talent that Skindred posesses. 'Roots Rock Riot' is a variety of songs that takes all sorts of different directions with moments that shine and explode. I do have to give Skindred huge credit for diving in head first and getting their hands into different elements without sounding ambitious nor arrogant. Most bands that try their hand at this type of sound completely fail and just fall flat on their face, not Skindred, they excell at fusing the different elements. Although they might not be the best at fusing the different elements of music, they definitely know how to musically and correct. and It finally sounds like Skindred has found their sound and is growing into their own. The only fault I see in this record is that the same formula has been arranged for each and every song which ultimately ends up restricting their musical horizons. Yes I know that there are parts in songs where it definitely sounds like they tried a different approach but ended up in the same path anyways. The bottom line is that this album is an indication that Skindred have put a lot of thought into this album, have shown substantial growth from their last record, and know exactly where their roots are planted. This album is definitely a worthwhile listen, no doubt. Gian Erguiza - September 11, 2008 Liz Durett Title: Outside Our Gates Label: Warm Electronic Records Year: 2008 Rating: A talented and sultry songstress comes our way, bearing gifts of beautiful music. On her latest offering, 'Outside Our Gates,' Liz Durett sings with all heart and bares it for all to see and hear. Her voice has a unique texture that swoons and swings with much emotion and compassion. Liz does not hide behind walls of distortion or instruments but instead delivers her angelic voice, accompanied by her acoustic, without restraint nor constraints. The album is layered with beautiful melodies and heartfelt lyrics that soar. These sentiments can be heard on tracks 'We Build Bridges,' 'All Of Them,' and 'Wild as Them.' As i listened to 'Outside Of Teh Gates,' I felt a heavy heart along with mixed emotions ranging from calm and collected to joy and happiness. There is a beautiful connection that Liz makes with her songs when she sings and it completely draws you in. From the first three tracks alone, you get a sense that Liz knows the exact direction that she wants to go in. Instead of boring us with nonsense acoustic tracks from her latest, she inspires us with great songs. Overall, Liz Durett has indeed made an impressive album, a songwriters record if you will. Gian Erguiza - September 19, 2008 Bison B.C. Title: Quiet Earth Label: Metal Blade Records Year: 2008 Rating: This record's a monster. Put that baby in and let it spun to start my morning and start my morning it did. Bison B.C.'s Metal Blade Records debut is one hell of record. Full of melodic metal, thundering drums and powerful riffs, Bison B.C. is a beast, like their name suggests. The awesome power of their guitar riffs crushes hard with conviction giving the album that bigger than life sound. The melodic structures that the band derives from really has some sharp teeth to cut through without getting lost in the background. There is some real raw energy honed here and the recording has captured this energy. You can hear this said power and energy on songs like 'Dark Towers,' 'Wendigo Pt.1 (Quest For Fire)' and 'Wendigo Pt.2 (Cursed To Roam).' The fierce diction of each song symbolizes the brute strength of the bands musicianship. As good as the album is though, I would've loved to hear more lyrics. There were times on the album where I would've loved to hear more screaming/singing but that's just my opinion. 'Quiet Earth' is a vindictive metal album for the absolute metalhead. Almost all of the elements that make a great metal album, is dug right into this one, deep. Bison B.C. is on the right track with this awesome brutal debut. Gian Erguiza - September 24, 2008 Mikoto Title: We Are The Architects Label: Torque Records Year: 2008 Rating: Hailing from Orange County, California, Mikoto's not new to the art and entertainment world, as evident on their full length debut, 'We Are The Architects.' Swinging moods, crafted songs and full of attitude, 'We Are The Architects' has not one dull moment. The scream-singing vocals of Ray and Matt put a certain sense of style to the music which makes the music stand out. The album also carves it's own path with explsoive beats and rhythms, courtesy of the band. Although the album boasts much potential, I feel that it lacked a bit of originality. With that said, how original can you really get these days and without a reference to the old school or to influence? I love the energy of this record. It has the 'face melting' personality that I love from music with a pretty clear direction of what the music should be in this case, energized, full of emotion, and no holds-barred. I also dig the dissonant guitar parts that most bands can't hack nor fit into their music. I also don't like to put labels on bands but this easily falls in the screamo category in my opinion, but with a little bit more bite than most. I still see some growth in the music for these guys in the future and the future is looking promising for these guys. The bottom line is, 'We Are The Architects,' is one impressive debut from Mikoto. Gian Erguiza - September 15, 2008 Jay Reatard Title: Matador Singles 08' Label: Matador Records Year: 2008 Rating: Jay Reatard's vocals are an instant classic. With a vintage sound to back up his gnarly, over enthusiastic voice, Jay pumps this album full of raw energy. The raging garage driven guitars and drums, sets the tone for the whole album. Along with Jay's abstract musicianship, Jay boasts sing along anthems to some of the most interesting lyrics which definitely contributes to the overall vibe of the record. I was actually pretty amused with this record and how the vintage, garage sound almost made it seem like it was made back in the 70's but with a modern day feel to it. I also love the fact that none of the songs sound like it was protools enhanced or touched by technology. There's a certain honesty to the singles that most bands lack these days. Instead of over thinking things and going overboard, it seems that Jay just has the natural knack of putting things together and making it happen. Jay's voice has a natural vintage persona making the album a definite stand out from other bands trying to go this musical route of style. Overall, the album is reatardedly good! Gian Erguiza - September 23, 2008 Throw The Fight Title: In Pursuit Of Tomorrow Label: Cordless Recordings Year: 2008 Rating: The debut album from Throw The Fight is going to make all alternative/post hardcore fans happy as hell. I don't like to put labels on music but this one falls right in there with the rest of them. 'In Pursuit Of Tomorrow' sees Throw The Fight in their top form with smart riffing guitars, sing/screaming, bass, and structured drumming. Although not the most original, it's not mediocre either. Tracks like 'The Wreckage' and 'Into The Fire' showcase the bands major abilities and huge potential. With the album taking different directions from easy guitars to metal riffing, it shows that the band is certainly in the right direction. The talent that Throw The Fight possesses is largely due to the fact that they know how to blend music, make songs and make a connection with each other which is very critical in making music, period. New vocalist James Clark has a nice wide range and the rest of the band truly know how to compliment the voice which is by the way, perfect for the style that they're going for. I would've loved to hear more originality though but hell, this is only their debut and they have already shown me that the potential exists in this band. I can't help but notice also that the recording is exceptionally excellent, clear as day like most of the bands that are backed by the bigger labels. Throw The Fight might not be ready to fight for the top spot yet, but this album will sure make heads turn in preparation for the next album. The verdict for this album is: If you love or like alternative/post hardcore music, this CD will make your day that much brighter. Gian Erguiza - September 24, 2008 Trivium Title: Shogun Label: Roadrunner Records Year: 2008 Rating: Matt Heafy and Co. have been doing a lot of homework. With their latest release, 'Shogun,' We see and hear the boys in Trivium, finally grow into their own sound. Instead of taking cues from old Metallica, this time around, Trivium have found a medium in which both old and new influences have taken shape, creating their most ground breaking record to date. The guitar riffing on this album is more concentrated and controlled than before giving the record more substance and life. Matt's vocals have also finally found a happy ground where singing and screaming on the right parts really get the listener in the gut. On songs like 'Throes Of Perdition,' we hear the signature Trivium style with monstrous guitar and bass riffs, Matt's undeniable vocal style and Travis' precision drumming. I can't say enough how talented these guys are and how driven they must be to make this type of music with all its complexity without losing the attitude and the style. 'Down From The Sky' is probably the most accessible track on the record and is one of the best tracks on the record. Don't get me wrong, this record is not a perfect album, is not the album of the year, but for everyone that's ever doubted the talent that Trivium possesses, here's their biggest middle finger to you. This album is totally Trivium all the way from the melodic choruses to the fat guitar riffs to the weight of the album's sound. The album does tend to start sounding repetitive by the end but I believe that Trivium is on their way to establishing themselves as one of metal's best in the years to come. Gian Erguiza - September 29, 2008 Brian Head Welch Title: Save Me From Myself Label: Driven Music Group Year: 2008 Rating: Upon leaving his highly-successful band, Korn, Brian Head Welch dissapeared from the music scene for a brief moment and emerged drug free and spiritualized. This must been a good move for Head since his latest debut 'Save Me From Myself' is one good album. The album is drenched in heavy riffs and eerie melodic patterns, way opposite of what I thought it would be. I was quite impressed with Head's vocal abilities and never even knew that he could actually hold a note, let alone, sing harmonies and melodies. This album has definitely proven me wrong. The first thing I noticed after the first listen was how personal the lyrics are. Head really dug deep inside himself for this album and have crafted an album that not only sounds unlike any other but also establishes himself as a solo musician. 'Home' is by far one of the best tracks on the album with a contagious melodic chorus and great driven guitars. 'Flush,' having that ultra catchy guitar riff with matching catchy hooks can easily wipe any misconceptions you may have about how the album was going to turn out and sound. Although the album has dark overtones, the message is quite clear: Take care of yourself, live and love. I also love the fact that Head did not ditch his metal roots for indie acoustic or a new direction, away from their previous efforts. Not that there's anything wrong with indie acoustic or why newly sober musicians take to a new direction, but Head belongs in metal and that's the way it should be. Gian Erguiza - September 29, 2008 Tricky Title: Knowle West Boy Label: Domino Records Year: 2008 Rating: The master of experimental/electronica/trip-hop music has crafted a wonderful record with songs coming from all different directions. I could clearly say that this is Tricky's best work to date, obviously not surpassing his first, but this record is aeons better than his previous releases in the last few years. There's a certain ambience and vibe on the album that excels past dull and boring, rolls right into fun and creative. The experimental sound, fusing jazz, rock, hip-hop and whatever else Tricky could get his hands on, definitely makes this record unique. I love the fact that Tricky lays it all out on this record without compromising the art. His last record, Vulnerable, which is best forgotten, is nowhere near the creativity and music on Knowle West Boy. This album is a serious return to form for the trailblazer. There's a cover of Kylie Minogue's 'Slow' on this album that puts the cherry on top. It is seriously that much better than the original and he didn't even really do much except for add the funky beats and make it more groovy rather than well, slow and repetitive. A few other stand out tracks include the groove lathered 'C'mon Baby,' the spiritualized 'Joseph,' the signature Tricky sound on 'Council Estate' and the beat steady 'Far Away.' Welcome back Tricky! Gian Erguiza - September 25, 2008 The Ettes Title: Look At Life Soon Again Label: Sympathy For The Record Industry/Take Root/2 Fer Year: 2008 Rating: This is the sexiest sounding garage punk band ever! The infectious grooves on their latest release is just magnificent. There are definitely some Nancy Sinatra-ish vocals going on here with fuzz heavy guitars and driving beats sure to make that booty of yours grooving in no time. The first song that introduced me to The Ettes was 'Crown Of Age.' Coco's voice is a smoky powerhouse that reels you in, a diamond in the rough if you will in today's music. I also love the fact that they decided not to go with technology but instead stick with their tried and true formula of old school vocals, fuzzy guitars and garage beats. I was completely hooked after hearing that song and wanted more and more is what I got, maybe a little too much though. The album does become repetitive after a while with much respect to the sound and style. I totally get it but for some reason, some of the songs just fell flat after a few spins. Droning guitars, dead beats, but with that said, even their 'not so good' tracks are very much listenable. 'I Heard Tell' is one of my favorites off this album for its honest to goodness feel that made me smile. 'I Get Mine' could've easily ruled the charts back in the 60's without resistance. Overall, Look At Life Again Soon is one hell of a record. If you like the Ramones, The Cramps or The Kills, you'll love The Ettes! Gian Erguiza - September 25, 2008 The Windupdeads Title: Self-Titled Label: One Eleven Records Year: 2008 Rating: You know those bands you hear on open mic nights at your local coffee shop and/or gig venue? Remember how they all kind of sound the same? Imagine the average of all those rockers having a studio produced album and voila! The Windupdeads. This album is chockfull of glumly weighted tracks, straight off the angsty musings of any boy with a guitar. The boyband harmony intro and track 10's 30 second "Band Tuning" are random at best. Track 12 "I'll Pay You Back Someday" changes it up with a guest violin, so does Track 14 "The Bottom of Hell", this time with a forceful piano. Verdict? Perfect for the teenage rainy day playlist. Guitar riffs whirl around the slightly raspy vocals in the same way across the record-- well, on the upside I guess they definitely know their sound. Downside? Repetition is rather dull. Gayle Gatchalian - September 26, 2008

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