The Pacific Northwest is an absolute haven for heavy music. The amount of sheer volume that bellows from the area is astounding. Which brings us to the latest single from sludge meets hardcore giants, Great Falls. “Nicotine In The Spine” is a blast of pummeling and noisy post metal. The songs features additional vocals by Peter Clement Lund, the late guitarist/vocalist of Danish band Kollapse. Great Falls will be releasing their new album, The Bite That Grows Up, on October 16 via Neurot Recordings.
Great Falls are one of those bands that have a sound that once you hear it, you want to turn up the volume. Not only that, as a trio, the power being emitted from guitarist/vocalist Demian Johnston, bassist Shane Mehling, and drummer/vocalist Nickolis Parks, will obliterate anything lying in its path!
Pre-Order Great Falls, The Bite That Grows Up HERE
Hullabalooza 1996 and The Smashing Pumpkins are headlining and playing their rifftastic song “Zero” when all of the sudden a giant pink pig balloon floats to the sky out of nowhere. Which of course happened at the hands of the Springfield’s own Homer Simpson, Homer was just being a good dad taking his kids Bart and Lisa to the music festival!
What a time! Season seven of The Simpsons is right around a perfect time for that show. Not only that it was a genuinely amazing time musically. The Smashing Pumpkins were on top of the charts and world with their second masterpiece, Mellon Collie And The Infinite Sadness. There’s a fun twist to the episode too in which Billy Corgan is animated with hair, which coincided with a real-life transitional period when he shaved his head around late 1995/early 1996. And who can forget the iconic line when they meet, “Billy Corgan, Smashing Pumpkins.” Homer responds with the iconic, deadpan line: “Homer Simpson, smiling politely.”
Cheers to a great time of television and music coming together! Cypress Hill, Sonic Youth and Peter Frampton are featured on the episode too. And now, everyone go listen to The Smashing Pumpkins!
Badmotorfinger by Soundgarden is beyond a classic album. Dare to even say better than Superunknown in various ways, especially the recording. But that’s for another day. There is a song on the album that sits at track eight that, for the last few years has been the magnet when the album is picked to play. “Room A Thousand Years Wide” was actually released in 1990 with a previously unreleased B-side titled “H.I.V. Baby,” part of a Sub Pop Records single. When it came to the recording of Badmotorfinger, the band re-recorded it for the album. It’s also one of the few songs in the Soundgarden catalog to have no writing credit to Chris Cornell. The music was written by drummer Matt Cameron and lyrics by guitarist Kim Thayil. Another fun tidbit is this was the first song recorded and released with bassist Ben Shepherd. Chris Cornell took the words and wholeheartedly breathed exquisite life and emotion into them. Then you add in his signature screams and it’s spine tingling. The end of the song had a really great The Stooges album Fun House moment too.
Throughout the bands career, the song was played 134 times live with the majority in 1992 and 1994 respectively. On the bands Motorvision home video, there is a live version that is quite excellent from The Paramount Theatre in Seattle, Washington. A DVD version is on the super deluxe 25th anniversary edition of Badmotorfinger.
On a personal level, this is definitely one of those songs I wish I could’ve heard live. “Room A Thousand Years Wide” is one of those great moments where each member steps into a new role and the end result is something special!
Room A Thousand Years Wide (Album Version):
Room A Thousand Years Wide (Live Version 1992/Motorvision Home Video):
When you think of guitar solos there are a plethora of bands, players and songs that come to mind. There are certain bands though that really standout in that category and Iron Maiden is definitely one of them. There are certain list of songs are a plenty to choose from when it comes to iconic and memorable guitar solos. “Wasted Years” though an obvious choice, is such a classic it truly deserves its due. The build up to it is so catchy with its high note ascension. The way Steve Harris’s bass gallops with a thundering tone makes the climb even more satisfying. Then when Adrien Smith launches his stunning solo it hits a level that like Bruce Dickinson’s voice can reach it’s oh so sweet. It’s not a flashy super technical solo. Instead, what you hear is really tasteful and adds a great section to an already great song. While you’re listening to “Wasted Years,”and this great guitar solo, give the album Somewhere In Time a listen. It’s a great album (in my top 3 Iron Maiden albums of all time), and one of those game changer records. Enjoy!
Iron Maiden- Wasted Years:
Iron Maiden- Wasted Years (Live During The Book Of Souls Tour 2016):
At times it’s a bit strange to think about how long you’ve been listening to a band for. The ones that you heard right at the start and kept with it. Doesn’t matter if the band is not together anymore, those songs and albums still resonate. The other aspect of it that’s fascinating is seeing how your thoughts change as well about certain albums and songs. Which brings us to this updated album rank for The Dillinger Escape Plan. Ten years ago, this list was quite different. It’s probably not the ranking you’d expect either! And now we’ve arrived at Audioeclectica’s Definitive Album Rank for The Dillinger Escape Plan.
The last time Guns N Roses played the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, it was 1992. Fast Forward thirty four years and here they are again. It’s unmistakable the influence Guns N Roses has had on musicians and bands for over forty years now. The debut, Appetite For Destruction is still very much talked about.The Use Your Illusion albums have gone on to live in infamy for their great songs, arrangements and who can forget those videos (“You Could Be Mine,” “Don’t Cry,” “November Rain” and “Estranged”). And then there is Chinese Democracy. I’m probably one of the few out there that enjoy it. Take away the over produced aspects and some of the electronic elements, a couple songs and you’ve got one hell of a good album with some spectacular songs (“Better,” “Street Of Dreams,” “There Was A Time,” “Sorry,” “Madagascar,” and “Prostitute”). It’s been since 2021 when I saw GnR last, and on a whim myself and my friend Justin of Sinister Reviews, decided to head out to the Rose Bowl to see what Guns N Roses are up to.
At about 7:50pm, as the sun was almost completely set, the house music turned off, the lights off and the roar of tens of thousands of people, Guns N Roses took the stage and immediately made sure we knew where we are with “Welcome To The Jungle.” Still one of the best track one’s of all time. Over the course of the next three hours and twenty eight more songs, you knew you were in for a night. Jumping into “Bad Obsession” next was a treat. Such a good bluesy number to get things shaking a bit more as “It’s So Easy” and “Mr. Brownstone” were right after. One of the highlights of the show was when they played “Chinese Democracy.” The newer arrangement on the song plus this band, really makes this song shine. Another big highlight was “Don’t Cry.” What a song it still is and this evenings performance of it was top notch. A slew of other classics and fan favorites like “You Could Be Mine,” “Rocket Queen,” “Think About You,” “Civil War,” and “Yesterdays” were played. The three newer songs they played “Hard Skool,” “Nothin'” and “Atlas” sounded good and are definitely from the Chinese Democracy era. The encore was just a sweep of hits from “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” “November Rain,” “Nightrain” and of course “Paradise City.”
There is one aspect of this whole night that has left a bit of a sore spot with me. I’m not saying this wasn’t a really good show but, the inclusion of SEVEN COVER SONGS is too much. While I get to a point the need to play “Live And Let Die” and “Knockin On Heaven’s Door,” there is no need for anymore than that. Yes, The Spaghetti Incident exists and yes they have been playing covers since their start but, come on already. I’m sure the majority of people in the audience would have rather heard “Pretty Tied Up,” Locomotive,” “Dust N Bones,” Coma,” “Dead Horse” or like me more from Chinese Democracy, over a The Damned cover, one from Rose Tattoo (wish you a speedy recovery Angry Anderson), two Black Sabbath covers and “Slither” from Velvet Revolver. Thats five songs right there that should have been original songs. Instead of Duff singing a cover, let him sing his song “So Fine.” What’s so hard about that?! You wrote the songs! PLAY THEM!!
Axl still sounds good. While there are certain higher notes he can’t hit anymore (and he still tries), it’s nice to know he still has the passion and care to want to deliver. The songs though that featured a lower register vocal, sounded amazing. When they got to “Estranged” that’s when you could really tell how good this side of Axl still is. “Estranged” has been my favorite Guns song since I was eight years old, and to still be able to hear it live and this damn good, made my night. Just a thought, if it’s too much for Axl to hit all these notes across a three hour show, consider shortening the show! I mean it would still be a great show and then you get two openers that are really good on and you have yourself a stellar night. The band was on fire all night. Slash did Slash things and sounded great. Duff was right in the pocket all night and added a great rhythmic flair. New drummer Issac Carpenter was superb. He actually plays more like Steven Adler than any other drummer that’s sat back there. But it’s two other members that really need to get the due respect they deserve. Dizzy Reed is a gem in the band. His piano/keyboards add the right amount of texture and dynamic to the songs. There’s really a special charm with Dizzy. As well as longtime guitarist Richard Fortus. What a talent too. Great playing, great style and swagger. He fits in this band like a glove. Plus he kind of looks like Izzy Stradlin, bonus for everyone missing Izzy.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that Ice Cube was the opening act. I don’t know whose idea that was (probably Axl, as he was always a fan) but, come on! Know your audience. The Black Crowes have been out with you for a few shows, they would’ve been a better choice. That’s not to say Ice Cube wasn’t good. He was fine. He did his thing up there and a chunk of the crowd was dancing and shaking their asses a bit. It’s just this wasn’t the right time or audience for that.
Guns N Roses are not about to go anywhere. It’s great to have them back and out there. Now it’s time to really work on some new music. The want is there and if done right, this could be quite the record. GnR still knows how to put on a great show. The Rose Bowl was filled with people of all ages and from different generations which makes it more fun to share the night with. Provided they aren’t obnoxious or drunk. Let’s hope that the next time Guns N Roses comes through, things are a bit different. And while they’re at it, let’s ditch the silly background images playing behind the band Pretty sure most were from five years ago too. Just show the band, that’s what the people want to see!
Overall Rating: 8.5/10
By: Brian Lacy
GUNS N ROSES SETLIST:
01) Welcome To The Jungle 02) Bad Obsession 03) It’s So Easy 04) Mr. Brownstone 05) Slither (Velvet Revolver Cover) 06) Chinese Democracy 07) Live And Let Die (Wings Cover) 08) Nice Boys (Rose Tattoo Cover) 09) Yesterdays 10) Shadow Of Your Love 11) Double Talkin’ Jive 12) Hard Skool 13) Estranged 14) Knockin On Heaven’s Door (Bob Dylan Cover) 15) You Could Be Mine 16) Nothin’ 17) Junior’s Eyes (Black Sabbath Cover) 18) Sabbath Bloody Sabbath (Black Sabbath Cover) 19) Rocket Queen 20) Don’t Cry 21) New Rose (The Damned Cover- Duff Singing) 22) Think About You 23) Atlas 24) Civil War (with snippet of Jimi Hendrix “Voodoo Child”) 25) Slash Guitar Solo 26) Sweet Child O’ Mine 27) November Rain 28) Nightrain 29) Paradise City
In every band, there’s always at least one member that has a heart of gold. That one guy in the band that goes out of their way to be nice, cool and fun. While already being an absolute force of nature on stage. Which is why it’s really hard to come to terms with Andy Williams being gone.
From his time in Every Time I Die, to becoming a professional wrestler, and starting a new band, Atomic Rule, Andy Williams made sure to follow his passions. The way he played guitar with such love showed in the shows and songs. When you listen back to Every Time I Die songs, you can actually hear Andy’s parts, as they had a distinct tonality and dynamic drive. His stage presence was intimidating but also welcoming. This is a guy who attempted to set the Guinness Book Of Records for most hugs in a day. That tells you what kind of guy Andy was.
The few times I caught him wrestling on TV for AEW, was awesome to watch. As a wrestling fan growing up, seeing Andy as his character “The Butcher” felt like I was watching a classic wrestler.
I had the opportunity to meet Andy after a few Every Time I Die shows and he was always there to take time to talk with you. He was a gentle giant with a heart of gold. One of the nicest people you’d ever meet. He’d talk to you about whatever questions you had and make you feel like you were the only one there he was talking to.
Andy Williams will always be remembered and revered by so many. To all his family, friends, bandmates, and fans everywhere, my deepest condolences and sympathies. Andy was one of a kind and should be celebrated as such! Here’s to Andy!
At long last, the first new Fear Factory song with new vocalist, Milo Silvestro! “Roboticist” is straight off the assembly line and drilled straight into your ears. Musically it’s classic Fear Factory in that it’s got a great groove, heavy riffs, thundering drums and the right amount of electronic and industrial soundscapes. Vocally it’s right there in the same lane. The harsh vocals really hit and the cleans come through with individuality as well as respect to the past. All together this is just the start of more new Fear Factory. Well done!
Every so often throughout music history, a band comes along that transcends the time. Meaning that this band writes songs and albums that are timeless while also exploring different thematic aspects that makes for an experience be it on album or live that is so vivid it all comes to life. For the last twenty six years, Mastodon, have truly been the best new band of the Millennium. Never a band to rest of what they did before, Mastodon have pushed the boundaries aside of what you can do in rock music. Across now nine albums, Mastodon have established themselves as a bands band and one that can play with an array of bands and artists. On their now ninth studio album, Marrow Deep, Mastodon have taken their shared and personal tragedies and turmoil into an album that like Crack The Skye, oozes emotion and reaches so deep that each nuance is felt.
Throughout the twelve songs, there is not one ounce of filler or anything that feels out of place. Some might say there is but, that only exposes that persons lack of interest and knowledge into a musical space that expands ones mind. The intricate details that Mastodon have added over the years shine on Marrow Deep. While this is the first album without longtime bandmate and contributor, Brent Hinds (R.I.P.), it didn’t slow down Brann Dailor, Troy Sanders and Bill Kelliher. Now with the addition of Nick Johnston on guitar and Joao Nogueira on keys, the complete vivid vision has finally come together. Even the album cover hints at this vivid picture as the colors and lines weave in and out of one another.
From the start with “Barbarian’s Blood” till “The Three Fates,” it’s clear that this is a take your time album. The different elements from sludge, prog, space, psychedelia are signature Mastodon. The more cinematic nature on these songs has an almost “score” type of vibe as well. When you listen to a Mastodon album, the ability to lose yourself in it is vital. Be it a heavier song like “Poisonous Weapons” or an epic prog rock song like “Out Like A Lamb” there is something new to find the more you listen. There’s even bits of free form jazz found on songs like “They’re Coming For You,” “Snakes For Dinner” which features Queens Of The Stone Age’s Josh Homme (marking his second collaboration with the band. He was previously featured on “Colony Of Birchmen” off Blood Mountain), and “The Vanishing” the latter of which features Black Sabbath’s Geezer Butler on bass. If you’ve heard Master Of Reality or Volume 4 by Black Sabbath, you know what I’m talking about here. One of the absolute standout songs on Marrow Deep has to be “Moth And Bone.” This song has so many layers to unfold in a beautifully dynamic way. Just listen and you’ll experience it. Throughout the record there are subtle nods to Brent be it in the lyrics like “Your Ghost Again” or small guitar parts or even a vocal melody like on “A Vampire’s Demeanor.” The album ends with “The Three Fates” which again ends an album as Mastodon does on an epic note.
The additions and contributions of Nick and Joao are very present and prevalent. This new blood injected into Mastodon has brought out a side that feels invigorated and alive. The chemistry between Bill, Brann and Troy is unmistakable and now with Nick and Joao, the chemical bond has only grown! These songs when they play them live will no doubt deliver you into a different dimension. Let the Marrow Deep run wild in your ears and mind.
Living nostalgia is quite a head trip. The recent Even More Outta Control tour has been almost like a blast from the past. On one hand you have two bands, Nonpoint and (Hed) PE, that have been consistently out there with new albums and tours. Then you have a band, Spineshank, that has come back to celebrate an absolute classic album in The Height Of Callousness. The three of these bands together came up at or around the same time and on this tour, have been able to transport the audience back to a raucous time!
First up was (Hed) PE who were celebrating their second album, Broke, being twenty five years young. No matter the time or lineup over the years for Hed, they have always brought it. And this night was perhaps even a few notches above that. As soon as the band hit the stage, the crowd welcomed them with a roar of noise as they began their Broke centric set with “Jesus (of Nazareth).” Then came “Killing Time” and the entire venue including the staff were deeply rocking out. With this being on the “hits” from the record, it’s no wonder it got a huge crowd pop. The next few songs kept the crowd bouncing and moshing. Quite a fun sight to see especially when “Feel Good” was played. To end their set the always fun “Bartender” went over very well. The crowd singing back during the chorus felt like it was back in the early 00’s again. What a great set by (Hed) PE. Probably one of the best I’ve ever seen them.
Next up in the direct support slot was Spineshank. Since they have been back, they’ve been on the road constantly. During that time Spineshank have made sure to emphasize the impact their second album, The Height Of Callousness had and continues to have on kids these days. Their set while it was celebrating the album, only had a handful of songs from the record with the other half coming from their third album, Self Destructive Pattern. The choice of songs from both records really hammered home how heavy and hard Spineshank is. Songs like “Asthmatic,” “Synthetic,” “New Disease,” “Smothered,” and “The Beginning Of The End” sounded great and throughout the crowd participation really made the melodic parts soar. One of the fun things to see was drummer Tommy Decker still having the cool put the stick behind the head swing. Such a signature move. To close out their set, it almost seemed like they took a shot of adrenaline because “The Height Of Callousness” and “Dead To Me” haven’t sounded that good for a long time. I’ve seen Spineshank a couple times since their recent reunion and this was the best of the ones I’ve seen.
Headling the night was Nonpoint. If you’ve never seen Nonpoint live, you’ve been missing out. The sheer amount of off the wall energy is infectious as well as invigorating. While it had been a moment since I’ve seen them live, the moment they kicked things off with the one / two punch of “Ruthless” and “The Wreckoning” that was enough to know to prepare for absolute fun. Throughout their set, the entire audience, even myself, were caught in the wave of jumping and bouncing to quite the soundtrack. Songs like “Chaos And Earthquakes,” “Buscandome,” “Dodge Your Destiny,” and “My Last Dying Breath” were absolute highlights during the set. A mini set of songs from their debut album, Statement, transported everyone back to the year 2000 as “What A Day,” Victim,” “Endure,” and “Mindtrip” rocked the house. Two new songs “Is It” and “Red Yeti” from their upcoming album, The Last Word (out 9/20), showed there is no stopping Nonpoint! And of course to close out the night was the ferocious “Bullet With A Name.” What a set from Nonpoint.
This entire night was exciting, energetic and full of absolute fun. Concerts like this are what makes fans come to shows. A great lineup, a great venue (El Corazon in Seattle), great company, and the notion that you will have a great time. While it felt like a nostalgic blast, this show also had a crowd that spanned different ages and generations. To be able to connect with younger fans through music, especially older albums, truly shows how powerful music is and why it is a necessity. All three bands have new music coming soon and those are sure to be on my list to watch out for. What a night for live music and for Nonpoint, Spineshank and (Hed) PE!
Review By: Brian Lacy Venue: El Corazon- Seattle, WA
(HED) PE SET LIST: 01) Jesus (Of Nazareth) 02) Killing Time 03) Waiting To Die 04) Feel Good 05) I Got You 06) Bartender
SPINESHANK SET LIST: 01) Asthmatic 02) Synthetic 03) Violent Mood Swings 04) Smothered 05) Beginning Of The End 06) New Disease 07) The Height Of Callousness 08) Dead To Me
NONPOINT SET LIST: 01) Ruthless 02) The Wreckoning 03) Buscandome 04) Is It 05) Red Yeti 06) Chaos And Earthquakes 07) Dodge Your Destiny 08) Breaking Skin 09) Mindtrip 10) What A Day 11) Victim 12) Endure 13) My Last Dying Breath 14) Bullet With A Name
