“By now, the more astute of you are aware of my promo selection process. If you’re just tuning in, I select bands based on the following criteria: my own listening history of the band (naturally), the band’s back story, and their naming conventions. That last one has unearthed some amazing gems. Other times, it bit me in the ass hard. Italy’s Svlfvr (pronounced “Sulfur” and not “SVILFIVOR,” sadly) caught me with not only their name, but also their beautiful purple-and-green album cover for their debut full-length.” Color my wvrld.
Bakerteam Records
Housebreaking – Against All Odds Review
“Yes, folks, there’s a band called Housebreaking, and their second full-length, Against All Odds, is here, and is promoted as a cross between Amon Amarth, Rammstein, Dark Tranquillity, and… Soulfly?” If they pull off that epic mix, you may need to put some newspapers down.
Artaius – Torn Banners Review
“It took two lines in the Artaius promo blurb to stop me in my tracks – Artaius has shared the stage with well known metal acts like Ensiferum and Primal Fear and Torn Banners features special guests Tim Charles (Ne Obliviscaris), Lucio Stefani (Mé, Pek e Barba) and Dario Caradente (Kalévala). Those be some big selling points right there!” Madam X willing reviewing folk metal? The end is nigh.
Resumed – Alienations Review
We don’t often do double reviews, and when we do, it’s for far bigger and more noteworthy bands. But when a review assignment gets double booked due to administrative malfeasance, and the opinions are as wildly varied as they are here, you get a bonus holiday double! For your Thanksgiving reading pleasure, we present two divergent thoughts on the tech-death insanity of Resumed and their debut album, Alienations. Don’t read with your mouth full!