Another year, another page in the books of metal. 2016 proved to be an interesting year and in my eyes I think one spectrum of the metal universe got more attention this year than usual which of course is a very good thing if you’re me. Continue reading “Fernando’s Top 13 Albums of 2016”
Another year, another turning point, another chapter in metal has passed. Something that’s always intrigued are music videos so it’s time to take a look at my pick for the Top 13 Music Videos of 2016. Continue reading “Top Ten Tuesday – My Top 13 Music Videos of 2016”
There seems to be something in the air lately. All these Symphonic acts are releasing albums around the same time and lately their latest albums seem to be the best they’ve ever done. Are they somehow pulling the impossible? Continue reading “Album Review: Sirenia – Dim Days Of Dolor”
What a tremendous year for heavy metal it was. There were sick releases from just about every genre of metal this year and I must say that this was one of the best years for metal in a while. Iconic releases from the greats such as Lamb of God and the almighty Slayer to releases from up and comers like Borealis and Unleash The Archers, heavy metal never ceases to amaze from every corner of the world. As I was writing this, I had a heavy metal war going on in my head, really guessing who would be in my list this year. For any metal fan, you know it’s a dire challenge ranking anything in order by performance, sound, favorite band, etc. Not only were there some pretty amazing albums this year but there were so many great shows this year in the world of metal, artists getting back together as well as artists disbanding and of course the inevitable loss of a few metal legends every year. They certainly won’t be forgotten. Let’s start with album #13 and work our way down to my #1 album of 2015.
13. A.D.D. – Core
From the Chicagoland area, Hard Rockers, A.D.D. aka Analog Digital Disorder, bring an album that has all your signature hard rock elements. From the aggressive anthems to reminiscent tracks, the album surely will please any hard rocker. Having achieved great milestones in their career, look out for this group to be one of the faces of metal in the Chicago area soon. Recommended tracks include I Regret, Not My Way and Nightmare.
12. Scorpions – Return To Forever
It’s not everyday someone releases their 18th album. That’s right, 18 albums in and the Scorpions still have that sting and spark from day one. I certainly hope this isn’t their final album as the album is utmost perfect. The album encompasses twelve arena sounding, anthemic, electrifying tracks that really press the issues of everyday life, not to mention the homage to the world of Rock. Check out We Built This House, Rock N’ Roll Band and House Of Cards.
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgbmDMNu42s[/tube]
11. Borealis – Purgatory
The youngest, most talented metal band that I know of resides just north of us. From Canada, Power Metal quintet, Borealis, bring us their album, Purgatory. Highly talented, atmospheric, rigorous and harmonic, the album will appease any Power/Progressive metal fan. Noticeably more mature than their previous album, if any emerging metal band deserves a spot in the metal hall of fame, I can pretty much bet that Borealis might be future contenders. Check out Past The Veil, My Peace and Sacrifice.
10. Frantic Amber – Burning Insight
A metal band comprised of 4 females and 1 male. If you’re seeking the most badass female metal group, these gals are it right here. Coming together from different regions of the world, Frantic Amber’s album surely will give you something to go apeshit about. Easily one of the most intense albums of the year personally, speed, aggression and headbanging are heavily present throughout. All their videos are like mini-movies, which I highly recommend. They are a metal gem waiting to be found. Check out Soar, Bleeding Sanity and Awakening.
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgdqLKAgVAw[/tube]
9. Sirenia – The Seventh Life Path
This album is pure genius. I don’t recall the last time an album that has been crafted this well in terms of the theme of the album, its cover art and the lyrics and subjects of each song. There have been albums in the past that have amazing titles but then the songs really didn’t fit with the overall theme of the album. The Seventh Life Path perfectly ties in everything together one one masterpiece that the group should be proud of to have crafted. Tracks that are themed to life and more take you on a special voyage that entices one to continue the quest to the end. One of the albums I was anticipating this year and proved worthy, mind-blowing! Check out Elixir, Once My Light and Serpent.
8. Voices Of Destiny – Crisis Cult
This album is truly exquisite and unique. There was enough of everything I had hoped for. Intensity, epicness, melody and more, this is another one of the more particular albums I am glad to have listened to. This is the first album I have listened to by them and I am a fan for life. Hopefully they’re future albums are explosive like Crisis Cult. If you’re a fan of all of these aforementioned elements, this album will not disappoint. These musicians are masters of their musical craft and deliver amassing talents that are dominant and strong. I can’t get enough of this album and I will be listening to it for a long, long time. Check out Wolfpack, 21 Heroes and Stormcrow.
7. Leaves’ Eyes – King Of Kings
Leaves’ Eyes are a group who outdo themselves with each album and King Of Kings is an album that invites the listener to take a trip into historical ventures with significant relevance. If you’re already a fan, the album won’t let you down. For those who have never stepped into their world and are fans of Folk Metal or metal with epic elements, I know this album will click with you. There is nothing on this album that wasn’t expected from the group overall, as they always manage to deliver superb results. You can always count on Leaves’ Eyes to give you a dose of historical references with many measurements of epic proportions. Check out King Of Kings, Sacred Vow and Haraldskvadi.
6. Kamelot – Haven
Take current world life events, symbolism and controversy. Mix that with melancholic tones, uplifting soaring melodies as well as addicting memorable tunes and you have Kamelot’s latest album, Haven. Everything a Power Metal fan could want is here. This album will take you on a majestic journey from ominous and dark tracks to stimulatingly triumphant anthems. The Symphonic aspect adds that unique touch of chaos. You are missing out on a great album if you haven’t listened to Haven. Check out Veil Of Elysium, My Therapy and the epic Liar Liar (Wasteland Monarchy).
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDLZ6Mqy7AM[/tube]
5. Disturbed – Immortalized
The Chicago boys are back and better than ever. This was their return album after a 4-year hiatus which was also ended with their first and only show in 4 years at the House of Blues in their native Chicago. Disturbed felt great to be back and their album, Immortalized brings in a fresh new sound as well as bring light to subject matters that are controversial and plaguing our society at the moment. They never disappoint with each album so if you haven’t checked out Immortalized, what are you waiting for?! Check out Fire It Up, You’re Mine and The Vengeful One.
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vka6wPrB4E0[/tube]
4. Nightwish – Endless Forms Most Beautiful
What a memorable journey this album is. I can tell you already the album will make you gasp, headbang, cry, shocked, proud, strong and more. It’s a roller coaster of events which is amazing when an artist can give you a gift that makes you experience a wide range of human emotion. I can firmly say that this is the group’s best album to date. As I mentioned before, Endless Forms Most Beautiful, has redefined them in a new light. A new era for Nightwish has begun and will propel them to further heights. They have outdone themselves this time and once you hit that play button, it will be almost impossible to stop. There’s a reason why Nightwish are at the top of their game and this album proves it. The unquestionable elements and incredibly arranged tracks have set the bar for other bands to reach. Check out Weak Fantasy, Yours Is An Empty Hope and Endless Forms Most Beautiful.
3. Xandria – Fire & Ashes
I was expecting to hear from Xandria in the near future but not right now, so this album is a great gift that continues to strengthen the bond the group has within the metal community. The notably structured and composed tracks, make Xandria shine in a newly reformed light. Each track on this Fire & Ashes really has something special to offer and what a way to prove their highly skilled talent than to create the ultimate album. Covers to show they can play like the rest, re-worked and re-recorded tracks to show they still have the spark they’ve been carrying all these years and of course new superb tracks that embody their promising future metal spirit. Their future looks bright and prosperous after all these years, may their fire shine bright! Check out Unembraced, Ravenheart and Voyage Of The Fallen.
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqYOvBZlA1c[/tube]
2. Skywalker – Liberty Island
I am a little shocked these guys made it to #2. There is something about this group that says that they are going to get very much noticed in the community. I was not expecting the album to be this dam good for once you hit that play button, it will be almost impossible to stop, as is this case. With strengthening lyrics backed up by energy driven instrumentals and heart-hitting harmonies, this album surely should be pleasing to the masses. These guys put quality music out there that deserves to be noticed and this album is a prime example of an underground band that surely will become bigger and better. Whatever methods they are using to create music, I say keep it, this album is phenomenal. Hands down one of the best albums of 2015, oh boy I cannot wait for their next album. Simply put by the band, “If there is a place where we truly feel safe and free, it is music. Music is our Liberty Island.” Check out Island, Laura and Shere Khan.
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3m01tBYVs0[/tube]
1. Unleash The Archers – Time Stands Still
My #1 album of 2015 is a bit of a surprise I think. After seeing all my contenders for the list, I did not realize how much in love I am with Time Stands Still. Unleash The Archers should feel supremely proud of releasing a whopping amazing album. Boy am I so glad to have listened to this album. The power this album has is just insane. From death metal to battle metal to power and heavy metal, this album surely will appeal to many. If you like your metal anthemic, heroic, epic, and all matters related, Time Stands Still may be one of the greatest albums you’ve ever heard. With Unleash The Archers in control, there is no slowing down, prepare to face beyond epic moments! Check out Hail Of The Tide, Tonight We Ride and Test Your Metal.
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yctXV3uHBs[/tube]
Favorite Interview: Amaranthe on the Massive Collision Tour
Favorite Live Show: Triple Threat Invades the Midwest (Nightwish, Sabaton, Delain)
There we go, my favorite albums of 2015. A well rounded, mixed list I think.- Metal attracts me from all genres and regions of the world, what can I say? That’s the power of heavy f*cking metal! Another year gone, 2016 looks to be another sick year for the world of heavy metal. Who knows what albums will be coming out this upcoming year or who we will lose in the world of metal, if anyone. I can feel the genre is more triumphant than ever! Cheers to a very metal 2016!! m/m/
I can’t believe we are halfway through 2015 and boy has it been a strong first half for the world of metal. From major releases to underground gems, 2015 so far looks pretty dam good, and that’s just the first half. The remainder of the year I think looks to be even more promising and exciting for us all. There’s a few more releases coming our way that I think may make it onto my end of the year list, but for now lets stick with what’s been released thus far. I really enjoy seeing the Top lists from all the writers here and today, it is my turn to showcase my Mid-year top of 2015. I think this list is even more diverse than any of the lists I’ve written so far since I’ve joined, We Love Metal. Starting with #10, lets work our way down to my number one release of the year thus far.
Scorpions – Return To Forever: Their 18th album has a diverse multitude of sound. From their harmonic and ballad sounding tunes to their edgy and signature Scorpions sound, the album certainly will appease any old school rocker and even new school rockers. The Scorps still have the spark they’ve had for many years now and singer, Klaus Meine, also still has the distinguishable signature voice he’s had thus far. No need to worry Scorps fans.
ISSA – Crossfire: Though Norway is known for it’s plethora of Black and Extreme metal, ISSA brings a rather new sound to the Norwegian table. Having heavy elements of melody and a large AOR sounding album, Crossfire is a modern day trip to yesteryears’ times. There’s still elements of metal on Crossfire, I’ll admit I have many casual moments of nostalgia throughout listening to the album.
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wYJ5xgeYVY[/tube]
A.D.D. – Core: The hard rockers of the midwest returned with their latest and most triumphant album titled, Core. The album boasts in your face, ravage sounds that take it’s own toll on their listeners. If you can’t hang with the big dogs then perhaps this album is not for you. Not only can they rock like the rest, but even the one or two more melodic tracks, put one in a new state of mindset. If you like your hard rock slightly grungy, raw and gritty, Core, will have a place in your metal heart.
Frantic Amber – Burning Insight: A group whose members have united from all over the world to start a band and write kickass metal, Frantic Amber‘s, first full-length album titled, Burning Insight, is an intoxicating dose of high energy and devilish metal. Move out of the way fellas, these ladies are ready to stake a claim in the metal kingdom and they deserve it. Once you get a dose of their insight, you’ll be addicted. Though it took them a little longer than usual to release this album, it was oh so worth it for the wait. This is their debut masterpiece.
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgdqLKAgVAw[/tube]
Sirenia – The Seventh Life Path: Having many years under their belt, another band from the Nordic lands, Sirenia, bring the metal masses an artistic album full of lyrical potency and Symphonic treasures. The Seventh Life Path is an album, just like life and death, flows through the beginning of this album’s time to it’s end. The album artwork itself is a visual analogy of what you can expect. Check out my review of it to figure out what I mean. The tracks headbang like the rest and also strike you with operatic gold at various points. If you haven’t heard of Sirenia and are a fan of females singers, symphonies, opera and choirs, you certainly are missing out.
Kiske/Somerville – City Of Heroes: Two powerhouses in metal, Amanda Somerville and Michael Kiske join forces to create a glorifying album titled, City Of Heroes. This album that is rich in melodic Power metal, draws lyricism from fantasy and other worldly themes. The album hit me personally in some ways, so it wasn’t hard for them to draw me in. Magical vocals and majestic instrumentals come together to perform perhaps my favorite vocal performance this year so far.
Voices Of Destiny – Crisis Cult: A heavy dose of ambient atmospheres, heavy riffs throughout, amazing keys, among other eargasmic affairs, I am forever a fan of this album and group now. From Germany, the groups third album encompasses a heavy choice of Symphonic and Epic metal while still appealing to a large array of metalheads. Many of my favorite metal elements were present on this album, so it’s no surprise it’s number 4 on my list, especially after competing with these other larger metal names. Every member in Voices Of Destiny is certainly a master of their instrument.
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NAd7Zm4m47A[/tube]
Kamelot – Haven: Starting my Top 3, metal legends, Kamelot come in with their eargasmic album, Haven. An album that addresses relevant affairs in our world, they combine controversy and symbolism with their dark elements and uplifting melodies to strike the listener at their deepest within. Already have heavily grown on me, I’ve listened to this album multiple times on a weekly basis since it’s release. Kamelot are truly one of the most inspiring metal acts out there today.
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvUeqRwWorM[/tube]
Skywalker – Liberty Island: I never would have thought that I would have gone back to my hardcore ways. Pretty much more than 90% of the hardcore acts out there today, I can’t stand but there is something unique about Skywalker that drove me to listen to their music. After researching the band, boy there is an amazing hardcore scene in Europe I had not known about. I always thought hardcore was prevalent in the states. Anyway, this dynamic album brings superb lyrics, high energy-driven instrumentals and heart-hitting melodies. Skywalker are a prime example of a super underground band that will certainly rise up and I know will hit the international markets. I cannot wait for their next album, watch out for their name to appear in a market near you.
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3m01tBYVs0[/tube]
Nightwish – Endless Forms Most Beautiful: I’m kind of surprised but I’m kind of not that this album is currently my #1 album of the year thus far. They don’t need an introduction, we all should know by now who they are. Their album, Endless Forms Most Beautiful, greets a new chapter in the bands career. With fresh blood threefold, the musicianship they showcase has noticeably matured on this album. Astonishing composure, vastly structured tracks, captivating moments throughout the album that are just oh so memorable, this may be the group’s best album to date. An album that made me gasp, shocked, sentimental, headbang, proud, strong and more, there’s a reason why Nightwish are at the top of their game and this album proves it. The unquestionable elements and incredibly arranged tracks have set the bar for other bands to reach. Boy does this album give me goosebumps!
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KDn-ngEQTw[/tube]
There you go, my Top 10 album of the year, so far. Like I said, the remainder of the year looks promising and there are a few more albums I am anticipating for the remainder of the year. This is why our genre is awesome. Stay Metal m/
The Seventh Life Path. What do you think of when you hear those words? I think of a fortunate opportunity to live another life and I also think of how lucky the number seven is. More appropriately, this also marks the seventh album for Norwegian Symphonic Goth metal quartet, Sirenia. If you’re not familiar with the group, their journey goes back to 2001 when founding member Morten Veland broke off from his former band, Tristania. From then on, his style of Gothic metal paved way for the modern sound of Gothic metal that is prevalent today. The group’s sound is described as Gothic Metal with heavy orchestral arrangements, really focusing on the symphonic aspects above the metal ones. They also like to throw in some elements from the extreme metal genres, just to keep things tasty and interesting. Add in some powerful drumming, enticing keyboards, melancholic atmospheres and even 12-string guitars and you have sumed up the general style that Sirenia is known for as well as this seventh album titled The Seventh Life Path. While that is the case, that’s not to say that their music can’t get groovy and melodic. Don’t forget the essence of the vocals which range from clean to operatic to screams, growls and choirs, boy that sounds like a massive set of talent right there. 14 years and 7 albums later and the group is still reaching milestones and slowly earning the respect and dues that they deserve after all these years. The main album features eleven atmospherically charged tracks that take the listener to a dark and perilous journey. Even the album cover itself is pretty striking with many symbols. If you notice the innocent girl in the white cloak, she is pulling a white life thread that appears that is coming from the cover of the album, or you if you want to take it a little more personal. As she pulls on this thread that goes into the hourglass, death is behind her taking this hourglass which is the fate of humans. Behind death is a long path that meanders into the mountains. This path symbolizes life and the top of the mountain is the end of life, the point in which you can look back on your whole life. There are 7 ravens, 7 snakes and 7 roses on the wreath and more remarkable, death’s scythe is also shaped like a 7. Talk about mind-blowing huh.
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5DDyofun8c[/tube]
After an epic, majestic and magical two-minutes with the instrumental opener, Seti, the Gothic adventure can begin with Serpent. Groovy and headbangable, the track is also very evil once the screams kick in. Keeping the style pretty constant throughout, the track climaxes later on as addicting melodies and choirs amongst a sick shredding solo really put the finishing touches on the serpent. The first single of the album, Once My Light is one of the longer tracks of the album, really hitting the staple elements of the Goth genre. I read a number of complaints that judged the track for its non-traditional formula of metal. I shook my head, the track is not meant to be catchy, simple, thrashy or related. Yes it’s metal but to follow a formula is conformist and cliche, salutes to the group for sticking to their own original song crafting skills! Lyrically the track rides along the theme of suicide and losing a loved one as the track sings about a new life which is hard to find, likewise a joyous life is hard to come back to. Check out the music video, as the group plays in between the real and afterlife, it’ll make much more sense.
Dedicated to the Nords and descendants of the Vikings, Sons Of The North is an equal blend of clean female vocals and harsh male growls and screams. You could probably guess what the lyrics are about, instrumentally, its pretty heavy, focusing on my favorite tremolo picking and heavy riffs. It a lot more straight up metal, definitely Amon Amarth fans would like this track. Earendel is most likely taken from J.R.R. Tolkiens poem about the voyage of Earendel. He carried the morning star across the sky. Having a massive epic influence, overall this one is pretty magical with a nice blend of harmonics and ambient atmospheres, a pleasant touch to the album. Concealed Disdain also carries a similar style and essence to the previous track, but its really not until you get to Contemptuous Quitus where it really gets dark and heavy. Pounding drums, low tuned guitars, a lot more instrumental focus, this dark tale gets as hauntingly epic as it gets. Following the same pattern but with the intensity turned up, perfect for the pits, The Silver Eye sets a fantasy feel to it but of course with a metal twist. Lots of growls and screams, this is your standard burst of speed drumming and blast beats. A great track to feature towards the end, which of course the album closes out with a peaceful and satisfying mellow track titled Tragedienne. I really enjoy the flutes that close out the track and album, no heavy guitars and no crazy drums, a wistful calm to end The Seventh Life Path, how fitting.
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhNpvE9bZMA[/tube]
This album is pure genius. I don’t recall the last time an album that has been crafted this well in terms of the theme of the album, its cover art and the lyrics and subjects of each song. There have been albums in the past that have amazing titles but then the songs really didn’t fit with the overall theme of the album. The Seventh Life Path perfectly ties in everything together in one masterpiece that the group should be proud of to have crafted. While I would have liked to have seen some more extreme metal, sometimes too much one one thing can pollute the rest of the song/album. Just like the mountains in the cover, the tracks all offer something unique and at every turn something unexpected occurs. Tracks that are themed to life and more take you on a special voyage that entices one to continue the quest to the end. One of the albums I was anticipating this year and proved worthy, mind-blowing! Stay Metal m/
The Seventh Life Path: 9/10
More information can be found on their Official Website as well as Facebook and Twitter Pages.
I recommend turning it up for today’s featured video. A track that gets me excited for their upcoming album, Symphonic Goth Metal quartet, Sirenia are due to release their seventh album next month titled, The Seventh Life Path. The album will comprise of twelve tracks which according to lead man and founder, Morten Veland, he poured his heart and soul into this brand new album that should be a masterpiece. This cinematic and darker sounding inspired album should leave the listener stricken and breathtaken. The album will feature a grandiose atmosphere with largely composed tracks and an appealing mixture of just the right amount of symphonies and gothic beauty. With a killer album cover that should be nominated as well as a promise of remarkable and unforgettable melodies, this looks like it could be one of their better albums yet! The single, Once My Light, is a pretty eerie, dark and heavy track, one that did not waste any time in connecting with. I am glad they let loose on this one, as their last album was a little more tame than I had anticipated. Nonetheless though the track encompasses a mixture of elements such as melancholic atmospheres, thrash and headbanging rhythms, ambient guitarwork at one point, quite the conglomerate of a track. Boy has their song structure matured vastly! Another album to look forward to in this amazing year so far for metal!
More information can be found on their Official Website as well as Facebook and Twitter Pages.
[tube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhNpvE9bZMA[/tube]
Happy New Year to you all from We Love Metal. And so embarks another year, another year to ponder what festivals will be around this year, what tours are coming to town and more importantly, the one factor that influences all that, the albums. While there are a handful of band’s I’ve been waiting for to hear new material from, there are other metal acts that will be (hopefully) releasing a new album this year. There were a few metal acts that I was looking forward to new material from last year and while they didn’t deliver due to various circumstances, I am sure 2015 will be their year to shine. After doing a little bit of research I am pretty stoked, this year looks like it might be even better than 2014! Groups are getting back together, groups are releasing anniversary sets and albums and older groups are still pummeling out tunes to our liking. Many of the big-name metal acts have announced an official release date for their next album while others have promised a general 2015 release timeframe and even others have rumored albums for this year. Now, in no particular order, let’s take a look at the albums I am looking forward to this year so far. Who knows, maybe other metal acts are ready to release an album this year as well but haven’t made the official announcement or swirling rumors yet.
Marilyn Manson – The Pale Emperor: Already having two singles out from this album, scheduled for a January 20th release date in the states, this will be Manson’s ninth album to date. The album will be released on his own record label, Hell, etc., and after hearing both singles,this looks to be a promising album. It isn’t safe to say yet if it will be his best album yet, but so far, it looks good for the King of Shock. He’s been on a roll with his previous two albums that were highly successful and I found to be true to his signature sound. I wasn’t a fan of Eat Me, Drink Me so hopefully this albums adds to the power of three and makes this another memorable album for him.
Symphony X: Another artist to release their ninth album, American Symphonic Power Progressive 
quintet, Symphony X stated in the Fall that the recording process would be finalized sometime this Spring. So far there are ten tracks written and according to the group the album will be less heavy than their last release, Iconoclast. While this might be a downer for many fans, the album promises to have elements of classic Symphony X, which should please the older fans. Straight and solid songwriting also describes the yet to be titled new album.
Coal Chamber: Are the 90’s making a comeback or what? Formed in 1993 then went on hiatus from 2003-2011, Nu-Metal quartet, Coal Chamber, will be releasing their yet to be titled fourth album in early 2015. This will be their first album in 13 years as well as their first album under Napalm Records. Check out their music videos, they scream the nineties, literally. Being a kid who grew up with Nu-Metal, this should be a somewhat nostalgic trip release, I’ll be looking forward to that.
Lamb Of God: After rumors of a new album and then those rumors being shot down and now as of 
last week, the rumors swirled back again that a new Lamb Of God album is on frontman, Randy Blythe’s goals for 2015. The Virginia-based group had entered the studio to record the upcoming eighth album in 2014 but due to Randy’s legal fees from the unnecessary trials and jailtime he endured overseas, the group’s funds were depleted. This though hasn’t stopped the monstrous band from putting their next album out that will feature lyrics Blythe wrote while he was incarcerated. In addition to a new album, Blythe’s new book will also be released this year.
Scorpions – Return To Forever: Though they are older metal and hard rock, who doesn’t like the occasional dose of Scorpion fever? This marks the 50th anniversary The Scorps have been in the industry. What better way to celebrate this huge milestone than with a massive worldwide tour and of course a new album? The album titled, Return To Forever, will include newly recorded songs of never-published songs as well as new songs written from 2011-2014. Slated for a February 23rd release date, this will be their 19th album, hopefully they make it to a perfect 20 albums! Their last original album, Sting In The Tail, was a killer album full of edge and raw tendencies, they still have that wild spark to this day. They’re certainly are getting up their in age also so if you can, check them out live while you still can.
Sirenia: This shouldn’t be a surprise to the writers here. Female fronted Symphonic Goth Metal 
act Sirenia announced that their seventh, yet to be titled album will attempt to be released in early 2015. The album will be released on the first label that signed them, Napalm Records, as their last four albums were released under Nuclear Blast Records. Not much more has been said in regards to the new album, so we’ll be anticipating the first single to be released from their upcoming album.
Tool: Their new album looks very close to being released sometime soon. The torture and suspense of wait time is almost over, I see a light at the end of the Tool tunnel. 2006 marked the year their last album came out, boy was that a while. While in 2014, an announcement was released that stated that the album would be released that same year, a new statement was made the following day saying that the announcement was false. Unfortunately another major contributor to the delay of the new album was a legal lawsuit that ensued with one of the band’s artwork artists. Supposedly the artist was not credited appropriately for his contributions to album artwork so the group had to spend millions and millions of dollars to be defended in court, and of course the fans are upset with the extremely major delay of the album. In addition to that, the group strongly feels the new album should be at the same standard as their past releases, if not better than their past releases. I too would rather wait a little longer for a perfect album than just to hear some mediocre creativity cranked out every other year. They better have made a superb album otherwise the 8-year wait will definitely have many of us upset.
Cradle Of Filth: Scheduled for a June 2015 release, Cradle Of Filth, have 15 tracks currently written 
and ready to record and finalize. They are not sure if all fifteen tracks will make it to the finalization stage overall though the album sounds amazing, according to frontman, Dani Filth. The album is rumored to be titled, Hammer Of The Witches, with the group bringing back elements from their earlier albums like, Cruelty and The Beast as well as Dusk and Her Embrace, with twin-guitar melodies and twin-guitar driven tracks. Although longtime member, Paul Allender, who was with the group 18 out of the 23 years the group has been in existence, left last year, I am crossing my fingers the album will be out of this world phenomenal.
Slayer: Everyone is always so eager to jump the Slayer gun and circulate rumors of an upcoming album, only this time they’re true. 2015 is the year we will finally get a new Slayer album, according to Kerry King. The album will comprise of 10-12 tracks that come to us in heavy, fast and spooky manner. It’s been about six years now since the release of their last album, World Painted Blood, so we are pretty much due for a Slayer dose. If you still haven’t known, they released their first track titled, Implode last year at the Golden Gods Awards Ceremony.
Helloween: Power Metal legends Helloween will be releasing their fifteenth studio album in May of 
this year. This yet to be titled album is the follow up to 2013’s, Straight Out Of Hell. The album will be a return release on Nuclear Blast Records as the group released two albums on that label in 2000 and 2003. Their last album also cracked the US Billboard charts as well as being #4 in the German Charts back home. No other info has been leaked by the group, I’ll be counting down until May gets here.
Battle Beast – Unholy Savior: Finnish Power Metal sextet, Battle Beast, will be releasing their third album next week titled, Unholy Savior. The group has released two singles so far off the album and the songs are contrast in nature, which tell us the album will cater variety. I have yet to find to a Battle Beast track I dislike, so I am pretty optimistic this album will be no exception. The album will feature eleven tracks that will surely have heads turning their way. This should be an epic album.
Dimmu Borgir: It feels like it’s been a dam while since we’ve last heard anything from the Dimmu
Borgir world, let alone a new album. Their last album released in 2010, Abrahadabra was an amazingly structured and composed album. Personally it was almost on par with some of their older albums but nonetheless the album did deliver satasfactory results. According to guitarist, Silenoz, the album was delayed because he had also been writing material for his side band, Insidious Disease. I agree with the group when they say that they’d rather take their time and create an album they can truly appreciate and stand behind. Nothing else has been spilled in regards to the new album, I am definitely stoked for the album which also should be hauntingly epic.
Nightwish – Endless Forms Most Beautiful: This is perhaps the biggest anticipation for a metal album I have ever seen. From trailers to the announcement of a single being released next month, album boxed sets, shirts and more, Nightwish is certainly not wasting any time in building hype for their eighth album which will be released at the end of March. The first single, Élan, will be released February 13th, which I can bet the servers will be packed with traffic from the crazy fans, including myself. The new album will showcase around 12 tracks and also will ultimately test the group seeing as Floor Jansen is now the groups lead singer after parting ways with Anette Olzon as well as the first album without drummer, Jukka Nevalainen, who had to take a leave of health from the group due to his heavy insomnia. His part will be filled in by Wintersun drummer, Kai Hahto, and also Troy Donockley is also the groups latest member as he played pipes and other instruments on the previous two Nightwish albums. One other strong suit will be that the album will have the group’s longest song to date, so that adds to the strength of the album. This might be the release of the year.
In addition to all those upcoming albums, I’d like to mention Swedish Melodeath metallers, Soilwork is rumored to have demos of new material ready for the next stage. Perhaps 2015 will be their year for their next album and also everyone’s favorite Japanese girls, Babymetal will be releasing their first Official DVD January 7th, 2015. Lastly, Black Sabbath mentioned they are in for one more album as well as one final tour. Tony Iommi seems to believe that while Ozzy doesn’t, more rumors to come throughout the year for the heavy metal world.
Overall though, this year looks like it might be better than 2014 and this isn’t even the full list of band’s officially releasing material this year. I’m sure we’ll hear more band’s making announcements for this year and new albums. So here’s to 2015 may you all have a metal year full of headbanging, horn throwing and more. Keep the metal alive. Stay Metal m/
One of the things I admire about all our writers here at WeLoveMetal is we all know what types of metal we all would enjoy. I was referred to Diabulus In Musica by one of the other writers here and I am greatful to have been recommended such a masterpiece. An easily underestimated band, they have become one of my closely followed bands now for this phenomenally talented quintet brings their Symphonic, Operatic, Gothic and powerful talents from Spain. When I read that they were from Spain, I was quite surprised…Spain out of most of all the places in the world I was least expecting the band to hail from, the land of Castles and proud Medieval History. Diabulus In Musica was formed in 2006 after singer, Zuberoa Aznárez, needed a way to express her musical talents. After the hand had their first official lineup, they went on to win several Battle of the Bands competitions as well as festivals in their native region. By the time 2010 hit, their debut album, Secrets, had hit the markets and was released by Metal Blade Records. The album got mixed reviews from the metal masses and media. 2 years later, the band signed onto a new and their current label, Napalm Records with the addition of their sophomore album release entited, The Wanderer. The album improved much compared to their last album which put the band on target. Fast forward to the present, and this new album titled, Argia, will be released Tuesday, April 15, 2014 in North America.
A staple now with many metal albums, this album would not be fully complete without an intrumental intro that braces us for the intensity, force and prosperity that we will endure for the next hour. Et Resurrexit (Libera Me), chants to the listener with patience and ambiguity. Its not until those horns that make their appearance that shift the fields to another plane that foreshadow something that is about to reveal itself. From The Embers, is a track I was not expecting from this band. The initial speed and thrash that harshly overwhelm the listener was something I easily could not get enough of. That and the keys together bring a combo that tell you that these guys know what they are doing and are master of their craft. Also for those not a fan of traditional female metal vocals, the keyboardist brings his grunts, growls and screams, that make this album a mass appeal to their demographic. The single of the album, Inner Force, is more on the Goth and Symphonic tone. Unlike the previous song, the smooth chorus and electronic keys, aside from the stimulating heaviness show one of the many faces Diabulus In Musica emblazons. Speaking of many faces, the next track is but an eargasmic quest that only makes Argia, better and better as each second rolls by. Furia De Libertad, has such passionate melodies and robust drumming that are backed by an orchestral presence. At first listen I thought it was a mediocre track, but after some more listens, the track has become one of my favorites, I couldn’t get it out of my head at times during the day when I was away from my music. The song features lead singer Ailyn, of familiar Symphonic band, Sirenia. A pleasurable and soothing way to include at the halfway mark of the album, the tracks, Maitagarri and Sed Diabolus lay low on the intensity factor. The Folk and almost Angelic-like atmosphere of each track, were a nice breather from the ferocity the album has brought upon thus far.
A few of the other tracks that fall in category of favorites, are Spoilt Vampire, Mechanical Ethos, and Healing. Spoilt Vampire is diverse in the slightly technical drumming that drops in, rich in growls and grunts and perhaps one of the highlights of the album, the originality and severity of the industrious and mysterious breakdown a bit after the halfway mark. Mechanical Ethos, just like the second track, bring on an abundance of headbanging instrumentals, including original sounds from the keys that I had never heard of that push the album another half notch up. Healing, I found to be in it’s own world. With the high driven force of the drums, and hard riffs, it paves way for what made me feel like I was at an actual Opera concert. At about the 4 minute-mark, the vocals go full on Soprano that surely should make the glass within your premesis shatter and crack slowly and then instantaneously the drums piledrive over one with the final opera and full one last impact the album gives us. To close the album appropriately, Horizons, bring a fantasy world within reach that surely fits perfectly as a way to and Argia.
Overall I would give the album an 8.5 out of 10. Many elements and aspects from the album were intense, unexpected, shocking, and wondrous. An album the perfectly executed metallic sound with Symphonic catchiness, Argia, delivered encompassing pounding rhythms with a strong female front backed by masters of their craft. Through close to the end of the year, the band will be playing some metal festivals in Europe. As mentioned in the beginning, an artist I am pleased to have been referred to, this album right now is on the verge of being my #1 album of the year thus far. It’s only April, but who knows, I may be making an early prediction. Though the band has released now, three albums, their name isn’t up there with the other Symphonic greats…yet. It’s only a matter of time before Diabulus In Musica make a bigger debut in other markets around the Heavy Metal Universe. I would not be surprised to see their name get bigger within years to come. This is an up and coming band, watch out for them. Stay Metal m/
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The Metal Alchemy 