"Made of Wax" Nominated

Newly-formed modern rock band Jimmy At The Prom recently returned home to Milwaukee from the NAAM conference and a string of shows in Southern California and to the support of their hometown fans. The video for the single "Made of Wax" from their self-titled debut self-release is nominated for "Best Video" by Radio Milwaukee listeners in their annual local music awards show taking place at Turner Hall on Tuesday, March 6th.

The video was shot and edited by Bryan Mir at the Riverside Theater in Milwaukee. It features original animation by Dave Kiehl of Harvest Motion Studio and original artwork by Steven Bossler from Green Seed Studios. Simon Bundy co-produced audio for the video along with mixing and mastering at Audiotrailz Studio in Milwaukee.

Jimmy At The Prom counts themselves among a burgeoning underground rock movement that's not afraid of employing a little production on their recordings and insist on turning up the volume levels. Playing well is also important to this band. The audience can be sure that Jimmy At The Prom won't hold anything back from them either. These are all criteria for a proper rock band and that is who Jimmy at Prom is. Their sound leaves heavily towards prog, arena rock and metal. Think Radiohead meets Black Sabbath. It's a sound as recently described by the Onion that “stakes a claim in the hard-rock racket, borrowing liberally from the guitar-god acts of the late ’70s and early ’80s but retaining just enough ’90s revivalism to keep things from getting too retro. It’s an intriguing—if sometimes confounding—mix, and a solid slab of deeply unironic rock ’n’ roll.”

Serbian Power Metal

Serbia’s Forever Storm is currently recording their latest album. Here are some links to give you a taste of what’s to come from this classic, power metal band.

New single, “Paradox” is technically driven with faster guitars and gorgeous meaning driven lyrics.

More Forever Storm @ http://www.foreverstorm.com/

- Deeanna Danger -

Tribune CD Release Tonight

February 24, 2012 - Funky Winkerbeans - Vancouver, BC w/ Bushwacker, Slagduster (Grand Forks, BC), Dead Asylum (Facebook Event Link: http://www.facebook.com/events/341050369250241/)

About Tribune:
A band of friends and brothers, the five members behind Tribune have been together since 2005, making it their mission to create challenging yet accessible metal. With an EP and demo behind them, the music has become both heavier and more melodic from release to release and now, Tribune is set to unleash its latest album, Elder Lore/The Dark Arts, showcasing the raw sound that captures the band in its natural live element.

Mixing thrash / progressive rock metal with melodic vocals, the album will feature new material along with classic fan favorites. “We want people to be impacted by the vision, effort and creativity put in to make a new and unique style that is genre defying,” said the members collectively when asked what they hope listeners will take away from Elder Lore/The Dark Arts.

FOR MORE NEW MUSIC AND RELEASES VISIT http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/vandala_concepts_e-zine.html

Brass Metallers FALLSTAF Post New Music Video "Pull The Knife"

Montreal brass metallers Fallstaf have posted their latest music video "Pull The Knife", in support of their debut album "Bastard Sons of A Pure Breed" that was self-released on October 25, 2011. The video was produced by 1oeilouvert and the live footage was taken from Fallstaf's concert w/ Slaves On Dope and Buffalo Theory in Beauharnois, QC last December.

"This is our second music video for "Bastard Sons of A Pure Breed". The fans asked for more, so we're giving them more! More BRASS METAL! Great work by 1oeilouvert's Rémi Joannette. Just like David Méliès, who did the first video "The Cost", he's part of what we call THE SOUTH WEST CREW. This is "Pull The Knife" and we are Montreal's own and unique BRASS METAL band!!" commented Fallstaf bassist Ben Forte.

Feb 25th - Live Music & 4th Anniversary

All six bands - Denounced, …From the Deep, Accursed Spawn, Insurrection, Deamon, Immersed, - will be performing on February 25th at Maverick’s Bar (Ottawa) as part of the anniversary bash. Tickets are currently available at Vertigo Records, The Record Shaap, and The Ink Spot Tattoo & Body Piercing.

For more info on the Feb. 25 performances, check out the event’s Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/events/246824585390685/

Hammer Smashed Radio airs every Tuesday from 10-11pm on CKCU 93.1 FM in Ottawa.

Dave Mustaine, Blogs, Gay Marriage & Deeanna's Dangers Narrative

There’s been some talk in the blogosphere about Dave Mustaine, Christianity, and homophobia. These links end up on my Facebook page every time they are published. I could be Dave Mustaine’s PR guy. People who have no clue about heavy metal post links to my page asking me if specific information is true. They will even point out words that are problematic.

I have a history with Megadeth and Dave Mustaine. Megadeth is one of the first metal bands I was introduced to that I love to this day. I am new to metal but passionate about the genre. I met Dave Mustaine at his book signing in Toronto. He was gracious and humble. I gave him a white rose and he gave me a hug. He said, “I am blushing. Does it look like I am blushing? I think I am blushing.” Soon after this my review of his memoir was published with the Globe and Mail. After this even, I found my words on the soft cover edition of his book.

When people come to me with questions about Dave I am mostly flattered. It doesn’t matter to me that much of what he says that get published is unflattering. What matters is the music, the message, and the way it inspires me to write.

What I notice about these metal blogs/articles is their tendency to have a sensational tone with headlines to grab the reader. The content is lacking. One piece brought to my attention had this headline: “Megadeth Frontman Dave Mustaine Supports Rick Santorum.” The notion of being a Republican and a Christian, which is what Dave Mustaine seems to be, would likely mean he is against gay marriage and equality. The article contains quotes from over the years (even from the 80s) with no proof of Mustaine actually saying he endorses the man who has become a fluid mixed with poo. Thank Dan Savage and his readers for this gift. At the very end of the article you will see that Dave Mustaine does not endorse Santorum but that he wants a Republican to win the next US election.

Of course this is problematic being a feminist in support of equality. However, everyone is entitled to their opinion and beliefs. If I was to knock him down because he is a Republican, people could knock me down for being a leftist or even for going against the grain. But I’m not even that much of leftist really. I support individual freedoms and rights and believe that we are all equal.

I want to interview Dave Mustaine someday. I would ask him about his beliefs, perhaps even off the record. I would tell him I am his biggest supporter, have written about him, been published reviewing his book, and how people now love him because of me. I have a writer/mentor/friend that has put Dave’s likeness of character in his novel. This was received very well. If it was indeed true that Dave Mustaine does not support gay marriage, I would say: “It personally hurts my feelings that you would wish to deny people equal rights in love.”

I’m not sure if it is my loyalty to the music, message, and Dave Mustaine that hinders my belief that he could be so cruel. For now I am still his biggest fan.

- Deeanna Danger -

Free Music From Some of Canada's Finest Hip Hop Artists

Hustle Cartel is an independent record label formed in Montreal, Canada in 2009. Working alongside some of the industry's finest, label founder and CEO, ACE, has picked up some of the most talented artists in the city of Montreal. FAME,T-MONEY, P-CHEDDAR, NYCE  and BLACK make up the label's roster. With that being said they have lots of hip hop videos and music including "The Cartel Volume 3" featuring 11 tracks from this hot label representing Hip Hop in style. Check these artists out and download the album Free along with more free music. http://www.hustlecartelent.com/

Hammer Smashed Radio Celebrates 4 Years w/ Free Music And Show

Hammer Smashed Radio Celebrates 4 Years On The Air With Free Download Comp. Featuring Immersed, Deamon, and Insurrection.

Ottawa’s Hammer Smashed Radio on CKCU 93.1FM, has released a free download compilation as part of their annual fourth anniversary birthday bash. The compilation includes tracks from Unique Leaders’ Immersed as well as Canadian death metal veterans Deamon and Insurrection.

All six bands included will be performing on February 25th at Maverick’s Bar (Ottawa) as part of the anniversary bash. Tickets are currently available at Vertigo Records, The Record Shaap, and The Ink Spot Tattoo & Body Piercing.

Dowload The Free Comp @ http://hammersmashedradio.bandcamp.com/

Full track list:

Denounced – Through Despair

…From the Deep – The Crows Know Something

Accursed Spawn – Stabbed in the Dick

Insurrection – History Repeats Itself

Deamon – Means of Extinction

Immersed – Transparent Monstrosities

For more info on the Feb. 25 performances, check out the event’s Facebook page. Hammer Smashed Radio airs every Tuesday from 10-11pm on CKCU 93.1 FM in Ottawa.

Greatest Women In Music? What the .....

VH1 Poll the greatest 100 women in music's has came out. I guess it the list features the greatest female artists of the last twenty years (those who have released music from 1990 to today). Proof that women and music is crap right now? I think not - just a bad list.

Top 20 are:

It's not like I do not expect Madonna, Mariah, Janet and Whitney to be at the top, no matter what they have done their time. I love Adele but really already on this list come on, but at least she tops it then. Most of these women I can say "you are not great woman" especially in music which makes the list so sad. Many of them have bought their songs and/or used only sexuality to go somewhere. As they say anyone can put a lip stick on a pig but it's still a pig right? Well most of these females are just attractive women whose vocals do not need a load of alterations to sound good that a label put money into.

I took a look at the WHOLE LIST and well, any female in the industry in the last 20 years on the mainstream pop chart was on it. When the Pussy Cat Dolls, Miley Cyrus, Courtney Love, Ke$ha, Taylor Swift, Fantasia, and not one metal, rock or any other non-pop/country female is on the list you can say it means nothing. Heck Amy Lee is not even on this list (I am not a fan), along with so many others. The network's weeklong countdown wraps up Friday which I will not be watching. We wonder why mainstream music in the crapper and why little girls and teens are doing what they are, It's because of these lists that are created.

- MCL-

Music and Helping People - Blankfest Quebec IV - 2012 THIS SATURDAY!

In the cold they sit and in the cold they wait. Montreal's homeless never have it easy as the city streets they live on are notorious for having brutal winters, with temperatures well below zero. For that reason, year after year, Montreal's music community comes together to help keep warm. Blankfest Quebec is proud to announce its annual return for its 4th year in support of one of Canada's oldest and largest homeless shelters, the Old Brewery Mission.

Every year Blankfest Quebec aids in raising awareness and clothing for Montreal's homeless and over the last few years has raised nearly 2,000 winter clothing items for Montreal's homeless.

“It is a great initiative. With the cold weather here, our clients at the Mission will truly appreciate it.” commented Matthew Pearce, President and CEO at the Old Brewery Mission.

This year's 4th annual Blankfest Quebec will be hosted at Frite Alors (680 Ste-Catherine Ouest) on Saturday, February 18th with support from Montreal's The Era Of... (featuring vocalist Matt McGachy of Cryptopsy, 3 Mile Scream & members of A Texas Funeral), punk rabble rousers Society's Ills, jazz rock virtuosos RudeBeats and electronic progressive rockers Isolate Cast.

"People forget that after the holidays Montreal's homeless are still in need and on the streets in below zero temperatures, risking frostbite and death due to exposure. The least we can do is keep them safe and warm and help the Old Brewery Mission by raising winter clothing for them.". commented Blankfest Quebec organizer Jon Asher.

Blankfest Quebec IV - 2012

Facebook Event: http://www.facebook.com/events/272898952773730/

Facebook Fanpage - Blankfest Quebec - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Blankfest-Quebec/124607864221341

Date: Saturday, February 18th, 2012

Time: 9pm

Venue: Frite Alors, 680 Ste-Catherine

Cost: Admission is a Blanket or Donation of Winter Clothing

Bands

Society's Ills - http://societysills.bandcamp.com/ (Free Downloads)

The State - http://youtu.be/peMwQ4daN-w

The Era Of... - http://www.theeraof.com/ 

Rude Beats - http://www.myspace.com/rudebeatsfunk

Isolate Cast - http://www.isolatecast.com/

Old Brewery Mission – www.oldbrewerymission.ca and http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mission-Old-Brewery-page-officielle/168973503131279

There are Better Ways Than After the Fact

Second thing in the news to Whiteny's death is that there is outrage that Chris Brown performed on the Grammies since it was the third anniversary of his infamous fight with ex-girlfriend Rihanna, which landed him in court on assault charges and resulted in a hard labour sentence, five years' probation and an order to stay away from the her.

Firstly I am not for violence or domestic abuse, I am a victim myself! Get that straight!! But seriously the third anniversary... I guess Miranda Lambert remembered, did Rhianna? Lambert wrote "Chris Brown twice? I don't get it. He beat on a girl... Not cool that we act like that didn't happen."

What I am really saying does it matter what day it happened? It happened period. To make a big stink that he performed on the "anniversary" after the fact just sounds stupid thus takes away from the crime. If  one wants to make a stink then try and ban him all together not just on a "third anniversary".

A side note Brown was punished by the court system and received more than most men who have assaulted woman or threatened them; not lightening the crime.  A common practice in Canada is a "peace bond" over and over until the woman is completely disfigured, injured and/or nearly dead. What about all the other woman that the abuser does not have the public watching every their move they make? Or those victims who do not have millions of dollars for security? What is being done by these Critics and Lambert to bring all these other crimes against woman to the public stage? Just not Chris Brown's crime. After all they have star power to make a difference.

In the end I think there are better ways to deal with things than how critics' and Lambert did. Be a larger advocate for one, help enforce or maker stiffer laws. Also listen to the victims, did Rhianna have a problem? Did anyone call her? Does she even remember the anniversary of the assault? If she didn't then why are so many others in uproar again after the fact.

At the end of the day domestic violence and family violence is a serious problem but just because they are a stars doesn't change anything thus complaining like this is ineffective since you sadly have made Chris Brown a victim now which does not help,  it makes it worse. Think about that!!!!! If anything they should of Banned Chris Brown to make a realy point to all men who abuse. But I guess a publicity stunt for their own careers afterwads is more important than all the victims out there.

- MCL -

Questions & Comments

mcl1999@live.com

Versus The Nothing Post Valentine's Day Acoustic Meatloaf Cover "I Would Do Anything For Love"

Versus The Nothing want you to know that they would do anything for love, which in true reality is touring, touring, touring, and the love for their fans! So in celebration of today's V-Day, Versus The Nothing are sharing with you an acoustic rendition of Meatloaf's love song "I would Do Anything for Love".

In additional news, Versus The Nothing's will be hitting the road for "The Grindstone Tour" that will see them trek across both west and east coast dates in the USA and Canada. VTN will also be hosting a tour kick off show in their hometown of Vancouver, BC on Feb 17th at Joe's Apartment (919 Granville St.) alongside My Coma & It's Criminal.

VTN released their anthem chanting EP "Black Gloves" back in July 2011, with their first single "Killer" to follow up their 2008 release "Let It All Come Down", which garnered a great reception from fans and industry members alike and saw multiple commercial placements.

Black Gloves was produced by Jay Evjen (Hot Hot Heat, Wide Mouth Mason) who also mixed songs "River" and "Invisible Asylum". Meanwhile, Mike Fraser (AC/DC, Hedley, Sam Roberts) mixed the album’s official first single "Killer" and "Excuse Me”.

“Killer” can now be downloaded for free, and the EP can be ordered at the following link: http://versusthenothing.bandcamp.com/

A Blend of Hiphop, Dubstep and Drum n' Bass In Halifax!

Ok when you think of Halifax you think of folk generally well I Got a suprise for you actually a "Dirty Intuition". This hot new band out of Halifax Nova Scotia, has created original electronic blends of hiphop, dubstep and drum n' bass with lyrical content reflecting matters of the heart.

Dirty Intuition releases their debut self titled album this week! Along with a few of their Canadian artist friends on this album, Dirty Intuition intends to create timeless classics that will continue to reach the hearts and souls of their fans for many years to come. To take a listen to thier music visit or buy the album

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/dirtyintuition

http://soundcloud.com/dirty-intuition/sets/dirty-intuition-dirty

http://intuit.wickedbad.net/

A Round of Excellent in the Cow Pie Pile

Thankfully there is Google these days so I do not have to actually watch the Grammy's. One time I was the first to watch but all the awards shows have dwindled for me and it's not hidden fact that I am critical. Many are surprised I never made one comment about Madonna at the super bowl; for those fans "the 53 year old has to wake up and realized her age...... and quite acting like the queen of the Egypt!" Any ways the Grammy's.

If you want to watch one thing from the Gramm's watch Adele! It is no hidden fact that I highly respect Adele and this morning I goggled her performance at the Grammy's right away. No lip singing with her and after a vocal surgery she still has a voice that rocks! Stage presence, talent, beauty and confidence that is what live music is all about! No grinding up against something/one, making a spectacle or lip singing which is refreshing!

"I Will Always Love You", a Dolly Parton cover Whitney Houston sang for the soundtrack to the 1992 film ‘The Bodyguard’ and sold millions and is a song that remains one of her best known songs to date. So when Jennifer Hudson sang it last night first thing I thought "Pressure". Hudson pulled it off beautifully. Whitney Houston no doubly made a mark in the industry and had a voice and will be remembered for her music no matter what. Though I never took note of Jennifer Hudson until last night especially since she only had hours to rehearse before taking to the stage to do such a famous sang by a top diva in memory.

Another great performance was the Foo Fighters, and a shock since I have never been a fan. Go figure out of all the junk they would be one of the good performances.

The only dreadful performance I want to mention is the one, called “The exorcism of [Nicki's alter ego] Roman,”. This has "insert joke here" all over it. It featured religious imagery, pyrotechnics, and backup dancers dressed as monks. Though the priest failed to remove both personas since Nicki and Roman will still will be performing!. Nicki Minaj is one of the reasons I am disliking a lot of mainstream these days! Also with these alter ego delusions; Lady Gaga has one and now everyone is getting them like little dogs....... This type of promotion degrades music! What happened to real stories and real people!

- MCL -

A RD by caseycarlsonx1

TONIGHT - “Glory On The Battlefield” Album Launch Show

It’s an event four years in the making. Now, Blacktooth Entertainment is proud to announce that it’s finally time to get your head ready for banging and dust off those horns as Crimson Shadows get set to release their highly anticipated debut full-length album “Glory On The Battlefield” on Saturday, February 11 at The Hard Luck Bar (772A Dundas Street West, Toronto, ON).

“I’m really happy about releasing this album because so much has gone into it. The speed, technicality, and the sheer brutality are some things that I’m really proud of on this album. We feel that we’ve finally found our own sound and we can bring something unique to the heavy metal table that hasn’t been done before.” commented Crimson Shadows vocalist Jimi Maltais.

Death and power metal are not two genres that are often mixed. In fact, it’s almost unthinkable. But for Toronto, ON-based Crimson Shadows it’s all about ignoring convention and developing new sounds.

Combining the guttural screams and blast beats of death metal with epic guitar harmonies and choruses signature to power metal, Crimson Shadows recorded their mind-shattering debut at Shatterpoint Studios at the end of 2011 and are finally ready to unleash it on the masses.

Quebec’s Kalter, Toronto’s folk metallers Bolero and Burning the Day will be joining Crimson Shadows for a CD release show and party of epic proportions only suitable for a band ballsy enough to fuse death and power metal. Can you handle it?

Show Details:

Facebook Event Page: http://www.facebook.com/events/311335905565452/

Date: Saturday, Feb 11, 2012

Venue: Hard Luck Bar, 772A Dundas Street West

Time: 7pm

Cost: $10 (All Ages)

CRIMSON SHADOWS

www.facebook.com/CrimsonShadowsBand

www.reverbnation.com/crimsonshadows

- Asher Media Relations -

Be In Vandala E-zine

Firstly We accept all genres and various things for out online Magazine. There are several ways to get into our Magazine:

1. Do you have a show, or tour coming up? How about an ALBUM coming out or just came out. Or PRESS RELEASE - Send in your information or press release to us for our Vandala Ezine asap. We still have room for March's Edition and lots of room for April. We accept various types of media and submissions. CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

2. Have a band member that stands out and you think he/she deserves to be featured just because he/she rocks. Or just maybe you are in a band and want some special attention. Maybe you know somebody or are someone that is crazy interesting and want the world. Just maybe you are an artist that is so busy that you need the world to know what you are up to. Whatever the case we WANT TO FEATURE THEM. So send us a short email why we should feature you or someone else. Email Vandala@Vandalaconcepts.Com directly

3. If you want to say forget about being in Vandala E-zine and to be on the COVER and have Interview with one of our writers then email us telling us why you would rock the cover. We are wanting ALL genres. Also note we are now doing phone interviews and interviews outside of shows.

The Main thing to get our attention is to give us as much information you can: Short email on what you are looking for, EPK link (if possible), Your Name, Email, Band Name, Genre, Album Name, Release Date, Music Genre, Upcoming shows, Links where can we preview your music and any other relevant info that would help us such as promo materials, tours and/or biography. AND NO LARGE FILES! We prefer links! If we need anything we will contact you.

For Details For Any Submissions:

http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/vandala_concepts_album_review_submissions_guidelines.html

Montreal - Pop-Alt-Rock Fusers DIVINGBELL Launch "Stories" EP

Imagine the energy of Arcade Fire mashed up with the attitude of The Strokes and you’ll end up with the very definition of Montreal’s ultimate pop-alt-rock fusers, Divingbell. Following a well-received debut EP, the band will be launching its second release, Stories, as a precursor to its debut full-length album, on February 10 at O Patro Vys (356 Mount Royal, Montreal).

"Stories is our second release leading up to our full length coming out this Summer. Working with Rick Collucio(Amanda Mabro) as our co-producer, we've managed to craft a unique danceable pop sound. We put together some really great songs on this EP and are extremely excited to peform them for fans." commented Divingbell vocalist Eddy Franco.

Drawing on influences ranging from The Beatles to The Kinks, Divingbell has been capturing audiences across Quebec and Ontario and continuously keeping them coming back for more with its signature danceable, sentimental pop tunes.

Divingbell is nothing if not dedicated to its music and its fans, always searching for new ways to connect with audiences and determined to put on live performances with monumental amounts of energy and with the launch of Stories, Divingbell hope to outdo even themselves.

Show Details:

Date: Friday, February 10, 2012

Venue: O Patro Vys, 356 Mont-Royal

Time: 8:30pm

Cost: $5

Bands: Divingbell, Ben Cardilli (opening)

Facebook Event: http://www.facebook.com/events/233259296752009/

For more info please visit http://www.wearedivingbell.com/

Here is a Taste:

Huge Electronic Music Festival In April

Organizers of Elements Music Festival are going for big in hopes of being the largest electronic music festival in Edmonton — and all of Canada.

The two-day festival, is set for April 27 and 28 at the Edmonton Expo Centre. More than 31 international and local DJs are set to perform. DJ Calvin Harris, a Scottish DJ, producer, remixer and singer and one of the biggest names in dance music will headline.

The second Headliner is Swedish House Mafia’s Sebastian Ingrosso who recently sold out Madison Square Garden — 20,000 seats — in less than 10 minutes. With that being said as many as 24,000 fans are expected to attend over the two days. Two-day Elements passes range from $99 to $199. A pre-sale starts Saturday, while the general on-sale begins Feb. 18, both at Foosh and Ticketmaster.

Other performers will include A-Trak, Wolfgang Gartner, Burns, Blake Jarrell, Dezza and  Cosmic Gate all in four different rooms each themed. As you guessed "Elements" - earth, wind, water and fire. Each night will also close down around 2:30 AM. "We really want to get people to go to events that end at 2:30 (rather) than expect these all-night parties because they’re just a little too much trouble now,” says Viet Nguyen who is one of the co-producers of the event. Though with this huge event you will be too tired to party any longer!

For More Information

http://www.elementsfest.com/

- MCL -

ALL ELSE FAILS Nominated For "Metal Album of Year" At 2012 Edmonton Music Awards

Canadian melodic metallers All Else Fails are proud to announce their nomination at this year's 2012 Edmonton Music Awards for "Metal Album of The Year" for their latest full length "The Oracle: What Was, Is And Could Have Been" released on August 19, 2011 on Suicidal Bride Records.

"We are honoured to be nominated in a city that has so many great metal bands. We have put years of hard work into this project, and this album is the culmination of those efforts." commented AEF vocalist/guitarist Barrett Klesko.

To listen to the album stream please visit the following link.

(http://thenewreview.net/all-access/album-stream-all-else-fails-the-oracle-what-was-is-and-could-have-been)

To view list of nominees please visit the following link. (http://www.edmontonmusicawards.com/2012Nominees.html)

Metal Album Of The Year

All Else Fails "The Oracle: What Was, Is And Could Have Been"

Jezibelle "Victus Mortuus"

No Heat Tomorrow "From Me To You"

The Order Of Chaos "Burning Dreams"

Villianizer "I Bomb New York"

This is AEF's second nomination at the Edmonton Music Awards being nominated at last year's 2011 award show in the fan "Artist to Watch" category.

Have  A Taste of this hot metal Band with their Music Video - Rebirth - 

First Listen - MAO - EMERALDS / HARKEN

Harken/Emeralds is the stunning debut EP from Bad Life's latest signing - Mao.

Mao was abandoned as a baby on the doorstep of an orphanage. Mao’s only solace is found at night, when he hides under his bunk, cracks open his laptop and starts to craft some of the most astonishing, forward thinking electronic music that we’ve ever heard.

The occasional carrier pidgeon will land on the window outside the Bad Life office, clasping a USB stick filled with dreams of a better life.

If this EP doesn’t make your jaw drop, then do you even have ears? Honestly, check whats on the side of your head - it's possible they may have been pilfered.

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN

Florence and the Machine, Ceremonials

Florence and the Machine’s second album release, Ceremonials is a breath taking array of sounds that evoke the senses. The ocean crashes, leaving traces of salt on skin. Feel the lack of oxygen as Florence takes you under in “Never Let Me Go” and “What the Water Gave Me”. Rarely is a harp fused so perfectly with popular music. The piano, drums, and angelic, ghostly vocals conjure ceremonials, sweeping the listener to memories and moments of mourning and rejoice. Sweetly, yet darkly religious, this is the album I cannot get enough of.

Strangely familiar, yet authentically new, Ceremonials reminds me of my favorite albums of the nineties like Sarah McLachlan’s “Fumbling Towards Ecstasy” and Alanis Morissette's “Jagged Little Pill”. It has the same force that causes songs to be played over and over. Florence has that magic and power in her songs and even in her live presence. She is not an artist from a different era, but a singer and lyricist of now. Her look on stage is that of newness and power; her chalk white cherub skin, like a porcelain doll of superhero stature, against flaming red hair and vogue like posture and body. She is in a class of her own.

Highly recommended, this album is meditative and addictive at once.

Best tracks: Shake it Out, Never Let Me Go, No Light, No Light, and Spectrum.

5/5 Dragons.

- Deeanna Danger -

NEPHELIUM "Coils of Entropy" Out Today!

Nephelium, the brutal death metal band that traces its roots back to the late 1990s from the city of Dubai, UAE and whom have now re-established themselves in Toronto, Canada for the last 10 years are proud to officially release their long awaited debut album "Coils of Entropy" today Tuesday, February 7, 2012.

The album balances equal amounts of brutality and complexity, staying true to the roots of old-school death metal and is a 6 track masterpiece that truly embodies Nephelium’s vision of technical death metal with old school roots and Arabian melodies.

"Today marks a significant day in this age – The “Awakening of the Giants” and the “Arrival of Entropy”. Join us in celebrating and commemorating the beginning of the end of an era as we cast our insidious gospel on the world." commented Nephelium drummer Alan Madhavan.

"Coils of Entropy" debut #2 on the Canadian college radio loud charts last week and has been garnering great reception from media and fans.

Charts Link for the week ending January 31, 2012 - http://www.earshot-online.com/charts/index.cfm?intChartTypeID=106&dWeekOfID=2012-01-31

The album is now streaming at the following links and available for purchase:

Album Stream - CLICK HERE 

Bandcamp - Purchase - http://nephelium.bandcamp.com/

A free download of their first single "Merciless Annihilation" is available here http://www.reverbnation.com/nephelium

 Single Stream Link - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRE2UpktFdg

- Asher Media Relations -

UFC 143 - Walk Out Music Hits, Misses and the Typical

UFC fans can say that they had a bit of everything for walk in music for UFC 143. In my opinion it is huge business for artists today to be a  UFC fighters choice for music; be it a paid preview fight or not. In the past I never really paid much attention to what was playing until UFC 143. All and all it hits millions people and can create fans for artists instantly which it did for me and exposed me to some songs I never heard, while other songs I would never want to hear again.

Hits

Alex Caceres walked out to “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” by Jim Croce. At first glance not a intimidating song though if you listen to the lyrics. "In front of everybody's nose, He got a custom Continental, He got an Eldorado too , He got a 32 gun in his pocket for fun, He got a razor in his shoe" I guess he does make a statement after all with this song.

Figueroa came out to “Return of the Tres” by Latin rappers Delinquent Habits. Again at first listen not a threatening song with Latin trumpets and smooth rap but With lyrics like "Then I hit you from a different angle, Leg sweep cheap shot bird shit straight cop and “Won’t take a fall/this here is winner take all,” speaks to the result of the fight.

Misses

Chris Cope opted in coming out to Chumbawamba’s “Tubthumping", Personally can you take the guy serious with a song like that "I get knocked down" and Cope was knocked out by Matt Brown in the second round.

Max Holloway inaugural UFC fight, he came out to Kanye West’s “Stronger.” Arrogant, cliché, and with a initial loss maybe rethink the song.

American fighter Roy Nelson walked in with “Born in the USA” by Bruce Springsteen. In this case a little weird even though the a line or 2 of the lyrics could fit but really listen to them, outdated.... the American anthem I guess?

Fabricio Werdum walked out to “Ai Se Eu Te Pego” by Brazilian singer Michel Telo. I guess this is a popular Portuguese song. At first glance at the music video a equivalent to a Justin Beiber video. As a fighter I would think you would stay away from a song like this as a man would for oblivious reasons.

In The Middle

Coming into the stadium to Stevie Ray Vaughn’s ”Life By The Drop.” Ed Herman entered. I love Stevie Ray Vaughn though I never thought I would see it at UFC, I guess anything can happen.

Nick Diaz walked out to his normal “Feiticeira” by Deftones. Overall lyrically I just do not get it. I understand maybe the rock part but really go look at the song story........ Hopefully there is no personal meaning for him.

Dustin Poirier walked down the tunnel to Gnarls Barkley’s “Transformer.” A very slow boring song, but lyrically I get the use of the song.

Matt Brown came out to a classic song , “Flirtin’ With Disaster” by Molly Hatchet. Which over all is a decent song to come out to but nothing special.

Typical

Carlos Condit selected an unusual version of a classic with Rage Against The Machine’s cover of “The Ghost Of Tom Joad.” This is generally at first glance what one would hear at UFC along with metal , rock plus gangster rap. Though UFC 143 when I paid attention is a place of music diversity but some fighters still should really think about what songs they use. 

- Ajax -

Concert Prices Too High?

This has been something I have been concerned with for a few years. Ticket Prices! Some are crazy, some reasonable while others not high enough. Most Independent band shows cost $5- $25 at the door. The $25 show is usually a event with a few bands. While I heard on the radio $600 a ticket for an artist recently. Who? I missed that part. Now Madonna tells Newsweek magazine, "Start saving your pennies now. People spend $300 on crazy things all the time, things like handbags. So work all year, scrape the money together, and come to my show. I'm worth it." HUH What?

I thought it was for the love of music and the fans. I guess not for Madonna and many other Artists. Side note that many artists riders are ridiculous on top of that. The other aspect look at the economy. Wow! I guess main stream artists are doing their part! Madonna who is worth 500 million still cares only about the money. I guess she doesn't have enough to live on so she has to charge $300 for a decent spot. It must be hard to live on that kind of money. When the average person doesn't make $300 a day.

Here I am thinking, "start saving" your money because she's "worth it". Start saving your music YOUR NOT WORTH IT, really for 2-3 hours lip singing and the 53 year old woman grinding poles is not worth much. Happy endings are not even worth that much. Heck Movies are $8 a month on net flix. Then you have some indie band playing for free out there or hoping for a meal!

This is why there is piracy in my opinion! Bad attitude of the artist, over priced items and concerts. There is a 99% in the music world. Not exactly 99% but the idea of inequality. It's not like I am saying don't make money but be reasonable. Heck Indies lose money all the time, stay in crap motels,/vans/camp, eat like crap and they don't get to complain and tell people to suck it up and save. I know a few bands if you told them you were broke they would let you in for free.

I thought the fans mattered, just like the customers always right, I guess not - we can all shove it in Madonna's world - I guess she only wants the money now. At her prices normal people can afford one show a year maybe but I do not commit to my artists like that, sorry.

At this point when your worth that much money you are either doing it for the love of music or your just a greedy whore, which greedy whore is obvious. BB King tickets by the way were $60.00 for row 5 and center.

- Ajax -

(Full article in Next Month's Ezine)

http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/vandala_concepts_e-zine.html

Some Numbers for you all:

Britney Spears Prices range from $96 to $346.50…and that's BEFORE additional fees!!!!
Average ticket price for BB King $44.95, AC DC $100.00, Tayler Swift $71.54

Bon Jovi Tour
Total Gross: $146,507,388 Number of Shows: 69
Total Attendance: 1,591,154 Number of Sell-Outs: 69
Price range : between $67 and $337

Lady Gaga Tour
Total Gross: $116,227,987 Number of Shows: 122
Total Attendance: 1,362,993 Number of Sell-Outs: 101
Tickect Price Range: $51-$181, VIP over $400

JUSTIN BIEBER
Total Gross: $35,600,276 Number of Shows: 62
Total Attendance: 739,533 Number of Sell-Outs:57
Ticket Prices:  $50 and $70 and up

Where's The Orange?

Going through submissions, bandcamp and I-tunes etc, (Yes I buy my music and support artists, I noticed something Album covers are generally boring. Not many album covers are very interesting, actually so many are generic. Which I noticed due to recently watching a show called "Faceoff". (movie and TV make up competition). The artist named Asher Roth was on there for a creative challenge; actually album cover competition for the contestants. His new album "Is This Too Orange" he explained that Orange is the creative chakra/ Plus we should Put some orange in your life (to simplify). Now it's got me noticing album covers.

What I noticed is that creativity isn't out there like it use to be with physical Cd's, cassette tapes and even records for the art/photos. Maybe since it's a digital world now so some artists go so generic. It is so sad when I see a cool cover and I get excited, like it's so rare. Maybe that is a good thing, maybe not. Seriously though artists at all levels should think about their album covers be it cool or it has some meaning. This cover also shows their creativity. A bland cover could mean a bland sound? Plus a album cover is the ad after all. I mean a cool album back in the day at the music store would get a second look even if it wasn't you genre. So where is the orange?

- MCL -

PS You GOta cool album send it in to us to review for our Vandala Ezine!

http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/vandala_concepts_album_review_submissions_guidelines.html