New Music Round-Up: April 3rd 2015

The Agonist

Losing the unique vocal talents of a powerhouse like Alissa White-Gluz (to Arch Enemy, no less) would have destroyed a lesser band. Luckily for us, and for them, The Agonist not only decided to continue, but also managed to find another vocalist with the pipes to fill the huge void left by Miss White-Gluz. Enter Vicky Psarakis. If this is a sign of things to come, then The Agonist have the potential to be bigger and better than ever.

36 Crazyfists

Alaska's own Post/Nu/Alt/Metalcore heroes, 36 Crazyfists are back after a prolonged 5 year absence and I am pleased to report that, while not as in-your-face aggressive as 2010's "Collisions and Castaways", new album "Time and Trauma" most definitely does not disappoint. Brock Lindow's distinct and unique vocal style is instantly recognisable and goes a long way towards elevating the band over their peers. Fans of bands as diverse as Godsmack, Killswitch Engage, Parkway Drive and even underrated early 2000s act,  Downer, will find much here to wrap their ears around. Welcome back, lads...you were missed.

Melechesh

Absolutely mind blowing! That was my first reaction to the new album from this amazing Dutch (by way of Israel) act. This isn't your average Metal band tacking a wanky bit of sitar akwardly over a Black Metal riff in a cynical attempt to sound vaguely interesting and "ethnic". Instead the Eastern instrumentation and melodies are deeply woven into the music like a wonderous sonic tapestry. It may well be played at breakneck speed, but persevere with this album and dig a little deeper and you will be rewarded by one of the most amazing musical experiences you will hear this year. This is the most ferocious that Melechesh have sounded in years, but also the most beautiful. A true paradox, "Enki" really is a work of extreme Metal art.

As Lions

Following the collapse of his previous act, partly due to line-up changes and partly due to idiots hounding him and judging him, not on his music, but because of who his dad is, Austin Dickinson shows the resolve that I'm sure Mr. Dickinson senior is very proud of. He got straight back to it, got a new band together and is back on the UK club circuit. Austin doesn't need to do this, he does this because he has passion for Metal. In his words "I take such a battering for being Bruce's kid, but I've always done this because I love it and I believe in the music". You should too. Metalcore appears to be a dirty word these days and while there are some truly terrible bands out there, there are also some good ones. As Lions are ready to be heard. Hear them roar! (sorry).

Byzantine

With a post-Thrash / Groove Metal (with hints of Prog) sound that should appeal to fans of heavyweights like Machine Head, it's a real mystery to me why Byzantine aren't bigger. I suppose it is mainly due to them being unsigned. Even in this era of the internet and easy exposure, it can be difficult for a band to get themselves out there and to reach a potential new audience without the backing of a label to promote them and to get them booked on big tours. What they are doing isn't really original (not many bands are), but it is delivered with style and aplomb! Forget the lazy comparisons (like mine above) and just enjoy this for what it is. A great Metal song from a band deserving of your time.