Reviews

MACBETH..'SUPERANGELIC HATE BRINGERS'

(Dragonheart/SPV) Reviewed 14th December 2007

Macbeth are from Italy, and there are comparisons on occasion to Lacuana Coil on this cd. However, that cannot be a bad thing. The CD kicks in with the ultra catchy 'Don't Pretend' followed by the equally catchy 'To My Falling Star', both tracks featuring interplay between vocalists Andreas (throaty male vocals) and Morena (angelic female vox). Indeed, coupled with crunching yet melodic guitars and keys, this vocal interplay is a feature throughout the cd. Third track in 'Without You' is one of my faves, as is the Middle Eastern influenced 'Veils'. Actually, most of the stuff on offer here is good value for your hard earnt cash, including last track '(The World) In My Mind'. Ten ultra catchy tracks lasting about 40 mimutes in total. This is Macbeth's fourth cd so I understand, although I admit it is my first foray into their territory. Good stuff! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

MADDER MORTEM..'EIGHT WAYS'

(Peaceville Records) Reviewed 15th June 2009

I work not too far away from Five Ways in Birmingham, Six Ways near Worcester is a 15 min car drive away from where I live. And here we have the latest record by Norway's Madder Mortem titled 'Eight Ways'. For starters, I like the album artwork here, so what awaits us musically inside the pretty package. Well it ain't bad. Peaceville Records who has released this cd are normally associated with heavy doom and gloom music, so I am pleasantly surprised by this release. Kicking off with 'Formaldehyde', this track starts quietly enough and then the metal guitars kick in, and of we go. The album is underway although Agnete Kirkevaag's vocals at times can be an aquired taste. And as another publication stated - "at times sounding like Grace Slick on the heavier tracks". 'The Little Things' keeps the metal vibe going, with the album generally a melodic and at times progressive affair. I quite like third track in 'Armour' which has quite a catchy vibe and will go down well live I am sure, while another fave is 'Get That Monster Out Of Here'. The album also occasionally reminds me of a heavier The Gathering, while occasionally flirting with Within Temptation as well. 'Eight Ways' is a grower, so it will not hit you instantly, but once it clobbers you, it may not let go. Try it! 7.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MADRON..'OUT OF NOWHERE'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 7th Sept 2007

My mate Becky asked me if I had heard of Mad Ron (Madron). To which I told her that I thought he had been locked up. Anyway, seriously, Madron have come out of nowhere (!), and offer another solid independent release, and from the UK too. They are fronted by the distinctive vocal style of Nicky Gilbert. This cd (their second) so happens to be very addictive, kicking off with the rocky 'Out Of Nowhere' followed by the equally as good and very catchy 'Why'. Listening to just the first two tracks, it becomes obvious we have a helluva band on our hands here. 'Heavens End' is another catchy monster, while 'Hush' slows it down a bit. 'Voices' so happens to be an addictive track too, and one that wouldn't be out of place in the clubs. Madron II (The Quest) is as epic as the title suggests, while the remainder of the album carries on the good work. As I have said before, and I will continue to say it, there is an awful lot of GOOD unsigned talent out there. Check them out on myspace, and order the cd. Impressive stuff! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

MAGENTA..'ART AND ACCIDENTS'

(All This And Music Too) Reviewed 10th April 2009

Fronted by vocalist Vilde Lockert, MAGENTA was formed in Norway in the summer of 1995 by Anders Odden, whose experience includes stints with bands such as APOPTYGMA BERZERK (one of my faves) and CADAVER, as well as recording for SATYRICON, live guitarist with CELTIC FROST and guesting with MINISTRY. Over the years, the band has released a series of albums and singles, as well as a video with MORTIIS, and the current lineup was completed by guitarist Daniel Hill in 2006. Hill's arrival signalled the start of a new dynamism and creativity for the band, which has culminated in the release of 'Art And Accidents' on the All This And Music Too label. Well, what about the music? I am going to say that this record is awesome by a band whose image I totally adore. Kicking off with 'Darkest Dream' this track will sure send you to heaven, and the equally catchy 'Untouchable' follows. 'To Die For' (featuring Gothminister) is the third track in, and can it honestly get any better? Just check out 'The One' and 'In Your Arms' for the answer, as it does. This whole record is an awesome mix of Electro, New Wave and Gothic Rock - imagine the Human League meeting The Sisters of Mercy in a dimly lit dungeon. This record comes highly recommended from the Ravenheart Music team. I am going to go all the way here...10/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MAGICA..'THEREAFTER'

(AFM Records) Reviewed 21st December 2007

Here is a band new to me, although I think this may be their second release (?). These bands seem to be creeping outta the woodwork at the moment. That cannot be a bad thing, and you know what, this ain't a bad effort. Magica hail from that mecca of all things rock and roll...Romania! They are fronted by a lass, Ana Mladinovici, and have a keyboards player who calls himself 6 fingers. The guitarist, Bodan Costea is a competent guy, with the whole package being driven on by some tight drumming and bass work. Yep, this is run of the mill power symphonic metal here, nothing new, but it's cool nonetheless. 'No Matter What', 'Entangled', and 'I Remember a Day' are standout tracks in my book, but as I say, the whole package is a damn fine effort. This is a must for fans of the genre, and if you are not, well you won't be reading this anyway! 7.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MAGICA..'WOLVES & WITCHES'

(AFM Records) Reviewed 13th December 2008

Magica is from Romania and is fronted by the lovely Ana Mladinovici, and they still have the awesomely named 6 Fingers as their keyboard player. I just love that name. Their previous release 'Thereafter' picked up a 7.5/10 here at Ravenheart Towers, and I think 'Wolves and Witches' will do a little better. I quite like this style of melodic metal with angelic femme vocals, and there are some catchy inoffensive songs on offer here. Okay, some people will argue that all this has been done before and continues to be done by bands from our beloved genre, but so what....it's good :) Fave tracks here are the opener, 'Don't Wanna Kill', 'Hold On Tight', the rather good 'Dark Secret' (I just love the catchy chorus) and album closer (and in this case the bonus track) 'In The Depth Of The Lake'. I said that I think this record will do a little better than their previous...yep..8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MALEDIA..'SHE AND HER DARKNESS'

(Zero Effect Records) Reviewed 19th July 2009

Maledia are a symphonic gothic band from Italy. Their music is reminiscent of Tarja era Nightwish at their gothic, especially in the interplay between the operatic lead vocals of Loo and the male vocals of guitarist Daniele. The music swirls from quiet piano and atmospherics, to powerful riffage, to soaring crescendos. An enormous amount of effort has been put into each song, and although it can get a little hysterical at times, this is a totally awesome platter. Stand outs include the title track and Fly to Die, with Ti Sento being very catchy. It is a little hard to get hold of, and I purchased it from their Myspace website, where you can have a listen, www.myspace.com/maledia 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)

MALEFICENT..'DEMIZE'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 24th February 2009

Maleficent was formed in 2006. The band is London based fronted by the beautiful and professionally trained ballet dancer Maleficent Martini, with male vox on this record by Mortimer Cain. This release offers us a cool taste of Alternative/Industrial electro rock/metal and I like it. Opener on this 7 track ep, 'New Deadly Tragedy' is a brief intro that leads us into the title track that comes blasting out of your speakers like a turbo charged express train. Great stuff. 'Where The Wild Roses Grow' is another great track, while 'Bleeding Altar' leads us into 'Black Mass Destruction' - this track being one of my faves. If this ep is a taster of what is to come from this band, well I cannot wait. If you like I:Scintilla and maybe even Ayin Aleph, then this is worth checking out. Visit www.myspace.com/maleficentband and place your order. 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MANDRAGORA SCREAM..'VOLTURNA'

(Massacre Records) Reviewed 20th October 2009

Mandragora Scream is what I call a real gothic band (and a fave of mine too), and here is their latest release that will hit the stores on the 20th November and should surely impress fans of the gothic and indeed electro genre. Fronted by Morgan Lacroix (whose vocals send shivers down my spine), the Mandragora Scream project first emerged in Italy in 1997. And I myself am a little puzzled as to why they are not bigger than they are! Onto the music on 'Volturna', 'Lui' is a cool intro before 'I'm Going Alone' kicks in with it's cool keyboard intro before the guitars kick in. What a catchy little number we have here, with touches of electronica too for the clubs and a thumping drum beat. 'The Circus' follows and features another thumping drum beat, and another track that should do well on the club circuit. I like so far what I am hearing. And the awesome record continues with tracks like 'Deceiver', 'Breaking Dawn' (harking back to their earlier releases) and the thumping & ultra catchy 'Farewell' , all of which will sure get the juices flowing. And let us not forget the very cool covers of 'Bang Bang' and 'Fade To Grey'. Overall, this is possibly one of their catchier and maybe as a consequence more accessible releases, and it should be easy to get hold of when released, being made available on the Massacre label. 15 tracks and 60+ mins of catchy electro gothic metal - I like this...a lot! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MANDRAKE..'MARY CELESTE'

(Greyfall) Reviewed 7th February 2008

The thing I liked with this cd is that despite German band MANDRAKE having some gothic elements, the music is leaning towards metal with heavy guitars and a liberal sprinkling of keys. LACUNA COIL springs to mind in places. The title track talks about the story of the ’Mary Celeste’, that left the harbour of New York in 1872, and some time after this, was found floating around near Gibraltar, totally abandoned. Birgit’s voice is quaint, although I feel it is a little low down in the mix, being drowned out by the guitars on occasion. Nontheless, Mandrake has produced a varied album, from dark and heavy tracks like the near progressive title track, together with 'Adore', up to the more easy listening stuff like 'Masquerade'. Other faves of mine personally being 'Fragile' and 'Solace'. MANDRAKE has the potential here with their fourth album to make the big step forward, let's hope they do. Go check it out! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

MANIC MOVEMENT..'DARK GLITTER'

(Shiver Records) Reviewed 11th April 2009

Well, this is a bolt out of the blue. Not a day goes by when something regards our beloved genre catches me by surprise. Indeed, this one nearly sneaked in under my radar, but I caught it just in time. Manic Movement is not a bowel condition, but an awesome band from Belgium. Founder member and composer Olivier started the band in 1993. Since 2006 the band switched to female vocals, creating more accessible songs and expanding its musical spectrum, releasing 'Dark Glitter' earlier this year. The music here ain't bad, ain't bad at all, with rather cool and sweet vocals courtesy of Virginia Fantoni. This is prime time Melodic Gothic Metal and it is right up my street! Haunting, atmospheric and heavy all in the right places, and production is top notch too. Fave tracks - well check out 'Army Of Agony', 'Voices (Why You Can't Sleep At Night)', the up tempo 'Sleeping Beauty' and 'Mindstruck' just for starters. There is even a cool cover of a Sting song, 'Russians'. A very good release from a band that is new to me, and this sure is worth checking out for fans of our genre....8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MANZANA..'NOTHING AS WHOLE AS A BROKEN HEART'

(TRC Records/Playground Music) Reviewed 15th Oct 2007

Great title me thinks! Who are Manzana? Well, they are a melodic metal outfit from Finland fronted by Piritta Lumous, and 'Nothing As Whole As A Broken Heart' is a catchy slice of melodic metal. Some good stuff on offer here including opener 'Pain', 'Falling To Pieces' and 'Cripple Heart'. The album is a must if you enjoy Lullacry or HIM. One gripe, it's only 35 minutes long. Come on guys and gal, I want a little bit more for my hard earnt cash next time. Other than that gripe, a half decent effort. 7.5/10 (Reviewed by Aimee).

MARENNE..'THE PAST PRELUDE'

(Edel Records Finland) Reviewed 18th February 2009

The quality of some of the releases coming my way this year is totally awesome, and it's only February! And guess what - here we have another! Marenne from Finland was formed in 2007. And although 'The Past Prelude' is the debut album for Marenne, their musicians are far from being just beginners. Zachary Hietala and Janne Tolsa come from legendary band TAROT, while Jukka Jylli is also an experienced musician who belonged previously to bands like MANNERHEIM. Added to all this the voice of an angel, Marenne and this band has it made. Every track on this release is a real gem for fans of catchy melodic metal and the 40+ minutes went too quickly! Some upbeat numbers and the odd slower one too, offering up the perfect recipe for fans of our genre. In summary, 'The Past Prelude' is melodic and metallic, with the dark sounds and intense lyrics leading towards light, with Marenne’s beautiful voice remaining in the air long after the music has finished. I like this release, and from a band that has hit me from out of nowhere. Released on Feb 11th, this is great stuff, so track it down and buy it. 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MARKIZE..'TRANSPARENCE'

(Acropole Records) Reviewed 3rd September 2008

What an album this is. Markize hail from France. But that is only half the story. Their singer, Alina Dunaevskaya is Russian, and on this album she sings in French, English and Russian. Ok, I am not very conversant in French or Russian, but if you want my personal opinion, here is a cd that should take Europe and America by storm, no matter what language the songs are sung in. I challenge anybody reading this review to tell me that first track in on the album, 'Mon Ange' is not one of the catchiest tunes you will hear this year, or any year come to think of it! Totally awesome stuff. And if you thought that the opening track is a one off, then track two 'Another Breath' will confirm that we have one helluva album on our hands here. And after hearing the opening two tracks, you will need to catch another breath. There are further standout cuts, including 'Poussieres de Vie', 'In The Obscure' (awesome organ intro), 'Paperdoll', 'Pardonne Moi', 'No More Life' and the title track amongst all the others. And with a sound similar to Evanescence, without cloning them, well Amy Lee had better start looking over her shoulder and begin worrying. The production on Transparence is top drawer stuff, and I am going to suggest that an international label snaps these up very quickly. This band are heading for the top, they have to be! Interesting lyrics, awesome music. A strong contender for album of the year! Now where's my repeat button? 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MATTSON..'DREAM CHILD'

(Lion Music) Reviewed 30th March 2008

'Dream Child' is a fine blend of interesting and deep compositions within great songs, and features new vocalist, Hungarian lass, Adrienn Antal (pictured elsewhere on this site). I like 'Dream Child' a lot. It features Lars Mattsson's intelligent musicianship, while at the same time it is melodic, in places metallic and also progressive. For the more melodic tracks, try 'Coming Home', 'Dream Child' and 'This Is Our Time'. For the more progressive flavoured morsels check out 'See The Dreamer Behold' and 'Heaven And Hell Unite'. 'Moonlight Dream' meanwhile is a nice ballad. This offering from Mattsson is what I would call thinking person's music and is well worth checking out. 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

MATTSSON..'TANGO'

(Lion Music) Reviewed February 12th 2010

Lars Mattsson is a highly experienced virtuoso guitarist and musician with a long history, and this is his second album with the most delectable of singers, Adrienn Antal, with her ravishing rich voice. She is joined on some songs by the rock voice of Status Minor singer Markku Kuikka. Lars plays and produces everything apart from the wonderfully named Eddie Sledgehammer on drums and the Astral Strings and Woodwinds. ‘Never Stand Down’ sets out his stall and shows the eclectic nature of Mattsson’s music - reggae verse, symphonic chorus, prog flourishes, lightning guitar solos, blues strut, in short the kitchen sink. ‘Believe’ is a very melodic groovy catchy song, which heads off in all directions, followed by ‘Tango’, which is great fun, I’d certainly like the last tango with Adrienn! Mini rock opera ‘The Great Escape’ starts with allsorts, then sitar on the verse, powerful symphonic chorus, synth and guitar solos, then groovy and balladic AOR rock, you cannot get bored listening to this! ‘I’ll Find Another Way’ is a lovely ballad, while Markku gets a good run out on the complex Dream Theatre type prog rock of ‘Shadows’. ‘The Scream of My Soul’ has a subtle jazzy flavour, ‘Fire is Burning’ is superb Toto style rock with Lars on vocals, and ‘Chain Me’ is another great ballad with a Latin feel and tasty fretless bass. The last two tunes are firstly ‘Tour De Force’, Lars has behaved himself up to now, this is his chance to show off on guitar and keys, and finally ‘Slave to the Road’ which is a fun groovy bluesy Steely Dan’ish encore, I suddenly remembered who Markku reminded me of, Colin Blunstone. Tango is a massive improvement on the last album Dream Child, which tended to get lost in prog excursions, and Eddie Sledgehammer sounded like he was demolishing a brick outhouse. This one is far more like Edenbridge, featuring great songs with prog flourishes, rather than the other way round. Tango is a fantastic record with more musical ideas in one song that most bands have in their entire careers, so if you like melodic rock, prog and symphonic rock then this will have you tangoing down to the nearest record emporium on March 19th, when it hits the shelves. Yes, I’ve been Tango’d by this one so 9/10 (Reviewed by Phil)

MEGAN MCCAULEY..'BETTER THAN BLOOD'

(Wind Up Records) Reviewed 11th November 2007

I am not 100% sure about the previous releases from this lass. I do however, have a 4 track Wind Up Records sampler of some Megan McCauley material, that I came across a couple of years ago, and that I believe is fetching some high internet prices. Released on the same label as our friends Evanescence, 'Better Than Blood' features three tracks from that sampler EP, plus a further 8 very good modern melodic rock songs. The sort of album Avril Lavigne should have released last time out, but didn't. 'Better Than Blood' is a pretty strong release and is deserving of your attention. Available on US import, and can be ordered from Amazon.co.uk. 8/10. (Reviewed by Dave)

MEMOIRA..S/T

(Nightmare Records USA) Reviewed 31st August 2008

Finland sure produces some awesome bands - now add Memoira to the list. Released on Nightmare Records in the USA, which I believe is Lance King's little baby. And for the uniniated amongst you, Lance King was once in British Power Metal Band 'Balance of Power'. Anyway, back to Memoira, they are known for their strong melancholic melodies and heavy guitar walls. And as a consequence, this self titled release is certainly one for fans of Epica, Kamelot, Nightwish and Within Temptation, and offers some good stuff for the listener. Fronted by Jemina Pitkala, it is difficult to find fault here. Epic guitars, awesome vocals and some great keyboards/piano that all in all typifies the genre. It kicks off with a brief instrumental before 'Experimenters Farewell' comes blasting from the speakers. One of my fave tracks however, 'Shadow Of My Name' shares clean vocal duties with keyboards player Lassi Nuolivaara. This is another record that with the right backing should take our beloved genre by storm. A European release is planned, but if any Europeans reading this cannot wait, it can be bought at CDBaby.com! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MEMORIA..'THE TIMELESSNESS'

(Redblack Productions) Reviewed 3rd November 2006

This album has been out 3 years or so now, and has sneaked in under the radar..well and truly it has. But we just have to review it. Memoria are from the Czech Republic. Not exactly a breeding ground for rock and metal bands. This in-fact is their second cd, their first release 'Children of the Doom' a rather more heavier affair. 'The Timelessness' is 10 tracks of very good catchy melodic metal - the vocals being provided by Andrea Baslova, who sings her little heart out on this release, with very little signs of any eastern European accent.10 catchy tracks to tickle your taste buds, kicking off with the addictive 'Dragonflies Tales'. Keys, heavy guitars and electric viola are an intergral part of this band's sound throughout the album, which ends with 'Life Bringing Wild', a personal fave of mine, together with the aforementioned 'Dragonflies Tales'. This cd can be tracked down via the band's web site...see our links page. Very much recommended! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MENA BRINNO..'ICY MUSE'

(Dark Balance Records) Reviewed 22nd June 2008

Mena Brinno is a gothic metal band formed by female vocalist, Katy Decker and lead guitarist Marius Kozlowski, in July of 2006. In January 2007, bassist, Vince Greco and drummer Tom Klinesmith were added to complete the line-up. The music has its strongest roots in American folk music, but maintains a heaviness tying it to its Florida metal roots. Katy departs from her normal operatic style here by experimenting with many vocal styles on this recording, and a good job she does too. I also find katy's vocal style on occasion quite sexy, and I am sure she will forgive me for saying that. 'Icy Muse' is a cd that one may have to live with before it hits you, but it is a good offering and we here at Ravenheart Towers here in the UK are suitably impressed. Fave tracks to my ears are 'Run From Me', 'Icy Muse','Pleading' and 'The Precipice'. Overall, this is a good record, so check it out and part with your hard earnt cash. 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MENA BRINNO..'WICKED POLLY'

(Dark Balance Records) Reviewed 17th February 2009

Mena Brinno have been featured at Ravenheart Towers before with their 'Icy Muse' offering (8/10). So what about 'Wicked Polly'. Well I like it. Rather hideously catchy folk metal we have here, and if your feet do not tap to this, then there is something seriously wrong. I am even sure your Grandparents would not find this offensive and would be dancing along too. Opener 'Banks Of The Ohio' sets the scene, while 'Entrapment' carries on the folk/metal vibe. With songs like the interestingly titled 'Wicked Polly' and 'Katie Cruel', I am wondering where song titles like this have come from, but cool tunes nonetheless, and stories being told within the lyrics. Well even though there is a 'Wicked Polly' and a 'Katie Cruel', one thing is for sure, Devilish Dave likes it, and I love Katy Decker's vocals. Catchy and interesting music on offer here, so get your dancing shoes out and start dancing with the elves and fairies. Worth checking out, 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MENAGERIE..'IN MODERATION'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 22nd June 2008

Occasionally a band comes along that leaves me asking the same old question: "Why do they not have a deal?". Menagerie fronted by Brooke Mayfield hail from New Orleans and released a cd in 2004 called 'Cages', and that album was a solid release. Then a few months ago they released 'In Moderation'.This cd is awesome, having more bite than their debut offering. Kicking off with the ultra catchy 'Echo', this is great stuff, and I like the interplay with the keys on this track. Indeed, keys and synths are apparent throughout 'In Moderation', but are never overdone (done in moderation perhaps), and indeed they do add a gothy feel to the sound that also features some crunchy guitar work by Keith Guillory. Second track in 'Analog' keeps the album ticking along quite nicely, as do all the remaining tracks on offer here. I personally do not have a favourite as they are all good, but possibly the aforementioned opener 'Echo', track 4 'A Word In Volume' and 8th track in 'Dogs' may just shade it. This record is produced, mixed and engineered in house, and with this release, Menagerie will most certainly give some of their European counterparts a run for their money. 'In Moderation' can be purchased from cdbaby.com and all I can say is buy this album, it is worth the money, I can assure you! 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MIDNATTSOL..'NORDLYS'

(Napalm Records) Reviewed 8th April 2008

Midnattsol's debut 'Where Twilight Dwells' was a good album, but it lacked a certain ooommmpphh in certain departments. But 'Nordlys' is metallic and heavy, propelling this band into the premier league of female fronted metal. Fronted by Carmen Elise Espenaes (sister of Liv Kristin), this Norwegian girl sure knows how to sing, and the lyrics courtesy of the lass too, carry a message focusing on love and nature. Kicking off with the awesome 'Open Your Eyes', 'Nordlys' starts how it means to go on, and rarely lets of the gas throughout. Together with 'Open Your Eyes', the awesome 7 minute + epic and melodic 'Konkylie'is another fave track of mine, on an album that sees yet another great offering served up from the Napalm stable. This album has been described as Norwegian Folk Metal. That just about sums it up really. It's Folk, it's definitely Metal and it's cool! Buy! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

MIKEYLA..'SOMETHING LIKE THAT'

(Parma Records) Reviewed 30th Sept 2006

It is fair to say that in Europe, the female fronted rock and metal scene has never been so popular, even though the UK needs a wake up call! Considered to be the next best thing in her native Sweden, there is no reason why the attractive 19 year old Mikeyla should not soon join this illustrious group. Mikeyla's music has a pop-rock slant which moves effortlessly from the Within Temptation light of 'The Lie' and 'Calling' to the power-pop style of 'Happy Worst Day' and 'Young & Stupid'. This album has huge crossover potential and, whilst it won't appeal to the more metal orientated fan amongst you, it should find a home with anyone who likes classy guitar orientated pop-rock. We like it...7.5/10 (Reviewed by Aimee)

MOJAVE..'STORIES'

(Download only) Reviewed 21st August 2007

When Ravenheart Music was born, one of the first bands I came across was Canadian hard rock outfit DAMSEL FLY. Their debut cd 'WHAT LIES BENEATH' is a melodic masterpiece, and it blew me away. There has been subsequent dialogue with Lisa their singer, who seems a very nice down to earth gal! Now moving on...Mojave originally began with the two founding members, Lisa and Paul (Black Canvas) meeting for the first time, not realizing that the journey, their story, was being written. And what began as two Vancouver hard rock bands (Damsel Fly and Black Canvas), paved the road for MOJAVE – just as intense, but without distortion. They jumped at the chance to try something new, something that had no musical boundaries. Mojave's debut cd 'STORIES' is an unplugged effort...stripped to the bones to reveal something like I have never heard before. This effort by MOJAVE is awesome. OK, it is not one for you metal heads out there. But to wind down after a hard day at work, and to soak yourself in the atmosphere and the emotion of the music and the lyrics, knowing that you have been blessed with life - well what more can I say? The cd kicks off with 'Faultline', one of my favourite songs on the cd, while the cool 'Light's Out' is a duet between Lisa and Paul. 'Not Obsessive', another good one is sung by Paul himself, while further faves of mine are 'Unbroken' and 'The End Of Heartache' (a Killswitch Engage cover). 'Old Dale Road' is an instrumental which connects 'One Will Fall' and 'The End Of Heartache' towards the end of the album. Furthermore, Mojave will be releasing their debut album in digital format only. Why? every month more than 100,000 lbs of CDs become unwanted and end up in landfills. Billions of CDs are purchased every year, eventually getting thrown out – they are not recyclable or biodegradable and are made from toxic materials. Mojave has made a decision to leave the planet the way we found it (or possibly better), so more stories can be told. It is a pity some of our political leaders do not feel the same way! I do love this cd, Lisa's voice has never sounded better, and we have every track bearing fruit it's own little story. The album will be available soon on itunes and other online stores. Meanwhile, check out http://www.mojavemusic.ca/ You know you should. This is a strong effort indeed!! 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

MOJAVE..'CROW'S FUNERAL'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 7th June 2009

Mojave are from Vancouver and are big faves of ours here at Ravenheart Towers, and this is their second album following on the heels of 'Stories'. Like their debut, this is an album of such beauty, and I can see some of the songs here against a back drop of hills, snow capped mountains and lakes, and the opener 'For A While' is one such song. LJ (also known as Lisa - the vocalist with rockers Damsel Fly) is not only a good friend of mine, but she is an excellent vocalist. The title track follows, and I love the simple nature of this song. 'Save Me' carries on the good work, while 'Escape Plan' sends shivers down my spine as does 'Wake Up', which actually brought a tear to my eye - proves I am only human! 'California' keeps things ticking along quite nicely, while 'Your Silence Betrays You' and 'No Tomorrow' remind me of a stripped back Damsel Fly. 'One Mistake' features Paul Jarvis on lead vocals, while 'Thank You' (that reminded me of 'Let You Go' from the Damsel Fly album), round things off quite nicely. There are some amazing moments chronicled throughout the whole album...love, loss, starting over, suicide, and the struggle to move forward when it seems that everything is trying to hold you back. Admit it, all of us have been there. Okay, it is not hard rock and it sure ain't metal, but it is one of the best accoustic offerings you will hear this year - great violin by the way, so buy it or download it from cdbaby.com. Enough said, 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MORNING..'MOMENTS OF TRUTH'

(Renaissance Records) Reviewed 5th March 2009

Morning hail from Holland and again, here we have another nation that consistently produces the goods. 'Moments of Truth' sees a giant leap forward from Morning's last effort 'Hour of Joy'. I suppose one would call 'Moments of Truth' a Bombastic Melodic Progressive Metal Record, and it kicks of with one of my faves on the record, 'Fading Vs Waiting'. 'Killing Truth' keeps up the pace of the opener, with Saskia van Heugten's vocals suiting the style of music very well. Other faves of mine include the heavy 'Death of Hearts' the power ballad 'Ever Unfolding Secret' and the upbeat 'Disorder'. This is an album for lovers of femme metal that like a subtle progressive edge and it is good. It remains to be seen however, as to whether the label will get behind this band. I have my doubts (that is my personal view by the way!). Anyway, do yourself a favour and get it at www.femmemetalstore.net/ 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

PAMELA MOORE..'STORIES FROM A BLUE ROOM '

(Independent Release) Reviewed 5th May 2008

Pamela Moore was the voice of Sister Mary on the awesome Operation Mindcrime album by those Seattle monsters Queensryche (one of my all time fave bands). And 'Stories From A Blue Room' is a very good effort indeed from the lass, the album featuring Michael Wilton (Queensryche) on the super track 'Take Me Down' and Teri Nunn (Berlin) on 'Get Off (American Way)' and 'Satisfied'. If a mix of electronica/rock/metal is up your alleyway, then this album will be a treat, and it all mixes together very well indeed. Check out the aforementioned 'Get Off (American Way)', 'Satisfied' and the awesome power ballad 'Forever In My Dreams' as proof of the pudding. And boy, this girl sure can sing, powerfully and seductively! Other faves of mine include 'Dive Into Me', 'Deeper' and 'Eyes Wide Open', although I must say there is not a filler on this album. I love the guitars on 'Eyes Wide Open' by the way! This record has no label backing (I have no idea why), but can be obtained from cdbaby. 'Stories From A Blue Room' comes highly recommended from us here at Ravenheart Music! And top notch production by Neil Kernon by the way. 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

ALANIS MORISSETTE..'FLAVORS OF ENTANGLEMENT'

(Maverick Recording Company) Reviewed 15th June 2008

'Jagged Little Pill' is a classic, and while subsequent releases although ok, never quite hit the spot to my ears. Fast forward 13 years, and how does 'Flavors Of Entanglement' rank? Alanis is back to form, with an excellent production from Guy Sigsworth! Relationships are dismantled by angst ridden energy and lyrics, while beautiful ballads blend in seamlessly, and electronics are occasionally found alongside the trademark guitars and pianos. This is Alanis back to form. Opener 'Citizen Of The Planet' starts with a middle eastern vibe, but becomes a rocker in the typical Alanis mould, and with a hard hitting chorus to boot. 'Underneath' is one of the singles and is a song typical of this lass, catchy and enjoyable. 'Straightjacket' is another catchy song that will see you tapping your feet and heading for the repeat button on your cd player. And through the remainder of the album, Alanis continues to deliver some real classy tunes, including 'Versions Of Violence', a song that showcases some really sexy electro beats, and being a real fave of mine, as is the classy ballad 'Not As We', 'Torch', and another possible single 'Giggling For No Reason'. Of people I speak too, you either love this girl or hate her. I love her, I love 'Flavors Of Entanglement'. And by the way, the deluxe edition contains a bonus cd of 5 extra ultra cool tracks. I understand Alanis does her housework naked (or she used to). May be she will come and do mine! Sorry, I digressed momentarily... Great album..8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

MORTAL LOVE..'FOREVER WILL BE GONE'

(Massacre Records) Reviewed 30th October 2006

Mortal Love's third album "Forever Will Be Gone" is the final chapter of the trilogy “All The Beauty I Have Lost Forever Will Be Gone”. This album is a gothic masterpiece, that will be snapped up by fans of the band, and should not be ignored by anyone in love with the genre. If gothic metal with subtle electronic elements, and totally adorable angelic vocals is up your alleyway, then snap this up. Comparable to the band's two other releases...indeed, if it ain't broken why fix it. A cool release.. 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)