Tag Archives: progressive rock

Brown Acid: The Twenty-First Trip – Album Review

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Various Artists – Brown Acid: The Twenty-First Trip 

RidingEasy Records 

Release date: 31/10/2026 

Review by: Alun Jones 

7.5/10 

Verily, pilgrims, ‘tis time for another feast of forgotten Rock’n’Roll fun, curated by the esteemed veterans at RidingEasy Records.  This is the twenty-first edition of their Brown Acid series (in case you didn’t read the headline) – a series that continues to run and run.  As with previous albums, herein lie ten hard rock songs that despite their brilliance, never blossomed into the classics they could-a (should-a) been.  The RidiingEasy boffins have dug ‘em up and are now re-presenting these tracks for our shared enjoyment. 

There’s a wide range of styles on display this time round, probably more so than usual.  We get things rolling with Opus Est and ‘Maggie Johnsons’, a short and furious proto punk number that has some ‘Communication Breakdown’ in its DNA.  A brief but great way to start.  Freedom North feature some very welcome female vocals on their song ‘Losing You’, a thumping psychedelic rocker with a deadly lead guitar.  ‘Friendly Stranger’ by Accents has a galloping rhythm, fuzzy guitar and brash organ that resembles Steppenwolf.   

And what’s this?  The Rolling Stones on a Brown Acid comp??  No, it’s Brother Love with ‘Rock N’ Roll Band’ – though that fuzzy riff sounds very like a certain legendary song by Mick, Keith and the other three.  Still, it’s a fun tune with decent lyrics and a catchy chorus.  Side One rounds out with ‘Bike Writer’ by River Styx, a solid, fast paced acid rock song with squealing lead. 

Some nice wah-wah warms up Side Two and we’re off again, this time with Maxx.  Their song ‘200 Years’ has a Stooges-like groove.  Pump are next, and despite that terrible band name, their ‘Kinda Like’ is a highlight of this collection – featuring more skronky organ and fierce guitar.  29.9 (much better band name) then unleash their version of ‘You Got Me Floating’, which despite being an authentic rendition, is still only a cover of a Hendrix tune that most people forget. 

Apparently, there was once a band called Wakefield, if you can believe that.  I can, ‘cos their song ‘Here I Am’ is on this compilation.  These guys seem to have Prog aspirations, with time changes and different sections, finishing with a glorious, melodic pop sing along for the last minute and a half.  But that’s not all folks – our last track is the psyche swamp blues of ‘Lazy River Blues’ by Peacepipe – a melancholy, sinister sail down the bayou. 

Volume Twenty-One of Brown Acid is another solid collection.  Not all the songs work, but they’re honestly all worthwhile – ‘Rock N’ Roll Band’ seems like a blatant rip off at first, but develops its own charm and style.  I felt a little short changed with a cover being included, but the overall quality doesn’t really suffer.  There’s still tons of acid-roasted, psychedelic fuzz on offer, and more variety than we’ve had previously. 

Next time, remind me to tell you the real story behind why the cover of “Beggars Banquet” was banned.  Clue: Mick still won’t speak to me and every Christmas, Keith sends me a gold toilet brush.

Visit the RidingEasy Records website here.

This review is presented by Platinum Al in association with Ever Metal.

Metallica Gig Review – Cardiff June 2026

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Metallica + Gojira + Knocked Loose

Sunday 28th June 2026

Principality Stadium, Cardiff

Cardiff city centre was literally swarming with people, nearly every single one of them wearing a Metallica t-shirt from one era of the band or another. Fans of all ages crowded the streets and bars, as music poured from the speakers. I’ve never witnessed anything like it before. And the atmosphere was crackling as soon as we got there.

Last time I saw Metallica live was at Sheffield Arena in 1993, on their Nowhere Else to Tour tour. I was a student, 21 years of age, seeing them for the first time and having been a fan for several years already. Metallica were rising in popularity on the back of their mega selling, self titled album.

Thirty three years later, I was finally going to see a Metallica gig again, this time with my old friend of fifty years. Joining us were our fifteen year old daughters, as we set about passing the torch to the next generation. We met up with another old pal and his family, ate some great burgers and headed to the venue. It was set to be a special event.

The Principality Stadium is bloody huge, let’s put it that way. Mightily impressive, the air was still full of excitement as we bumbled around to find out seats and get our bearings. Feeling like a mountaineer as I climbed to my seat, it was dizzying seeing the acres of people below. From my eagle like vantage point, the circular “in the round” stage was clearly visible, surrounded by huge poles supporting cylindrical screens.

The first band of the day, Knocked Loose, were already on stage as we entered the stadium, earlier than expected (probably due to a Sunday curfew, I guessed). Described as a Hardcore Punk band, their distinct crunch and harsh vocals gave them a more Metalcore sound. They came across well from what I saw, appearing confident and happy to be there. A band to keep an eye on.

Up next were Gojira, who were definitely comfortable on the huge circular stage. Their confidence shone through in the exquisite delivery of their technical yet emotional music. I’m not hugely familiar with their work, though I have listened to Gojira albums in the past. Based on this performance, I’m intrigued to revisit their albums and investigate further. With a sound that covers various Metal genres – Thrash, Death, Progressive – and an enticing lyrical content, I enjoyed what I heard and I’m keen for more.

Anticipation was set to boil over as AC/DC’s ‘It’s a Long Way to the Top’ teased the audience. By the time the traditional intro song, ‘The Ecstasy of Gold’ played (I’d warned my daughter that this tune heralded the main event), I was full of fire and ready to burn. The four members of Metallica appeared like tiny demons, miles away on the huge stage, and burst into ‘Creeping Death’. Perfect!

This diamond quality start was followed by a ferocious ‘For Whom the Bell Tolls’, and both Daughtertron and I were very happy. The band hopped about through time, performing tracks from various albums – I’d forgotten how great the riff to ‘Cyanide’ actually is – the most recent being ’72 Seasons’ from their most recent offering. Two tracks from “Reload” were aired, ‘The Memory Remains’ and a blistering, explosive ‘Fuel’ that lit up the entire stadium and with pyrotechnics that warmed our faces.

Rob and Kirk’s now familiar ‘doodle’ spot gave us a surprise treat with a rendition of Tom Jones’ ‘Delilah’ – I’d never had expected that back in the early 90’s! But it was the “Black” album that dominated the setlist, with five tracks including ‘Sad But True’, ‘The Unforgiven’ and an emotional ‘Nothing Else Matters’, played in a darkened stadium with thousands of phone lights gently bobbing like fireflies. The song may divide hardcore metal fans, but you’d need a heart of stone not to feel the magic this evening.

As is expected, the band rotate around the stage and James seemed particularly on fine form, absorbing the audience energy. The set official presumably ended with ‘One’ which was truly engrossing and showed off some great Thrash skills from Lars. There was no “off they go and come back in ten minutes for the encore” – Metallica raged straight through with the classic ‘Seek and Destroy’. ‘Master of Puppets’ was justifiably held back till the end before it was aired, given the respect that defining song deserves. Finally ‘Enter Sandman’ wrapped things up in a glorious, euphoric crescendo.

Manging to cover most of their albums wasn’t going to be easy for a band with as many enduring tracks as Metallica have, but that was a damn fine setlist. Both Daughtertron and I were very satisfied, being able to hear some of our favourites in a live setting.

For over forty years, Metallica have been at the forefront of what they do. That a bunch of guys in their sixties can put on that good a show is encouraging enough – but the real success of this was seeing the multitudes of fans, of all ages and walks of life, coming together and loving the music. So many of us grew up with Metallica and we’re in the midst of introducing the next generation to this passionate, life-affirming music. This gig was genuinely exciting, moving, inclusive and more important than I expected.

North West Doom Fest III 

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North West Doom Fest III 

10th – 11th April 2026 

G21 at The Saddle, Chester 

And lo, there shall come a time when the barbarians shall storm the gates of the fortress city, and congregate within its ancient walls in search of enlightenment.  Great would be the merry making, for the barbarians will come not with weapons of war, but with musical instruments and tales of hard-won valour.   

That time came, and it was known as:  North West Doom Fest III. 

Yes, after the runaway success of previous events, Chester’s premier/only Rock pub The Saddle was host to another weekend of the heaviest, the Doomiest, the Sludgiest of bands from around the UK.  Such was the demand, the event was sold out well in advance.  Personally, I was really looking forward to NWD Fest and very thankful to be there! 

Friday 10th April 2026 

The first band of the entire weekend was Ghozer, who are a four piece band from the Midlands.  Sadly, they don’t appear to be Ghostbusters fans, as that Gozer is spelt differently.  They are, however, a mighty and hugely impressive Alternative Metal band, with solid, catchy riffs and crazy, psychedelic lead guitar working nimbly through captivating, proggy epics.  They reminded me of a sludgy High On Fire with wild Hendrix lead.  A perfect start to the weekend, I was massively impressed.    

https://www.facebook.com/GhozerUK

Up next were Bristol’s Froglord, one of my personal favourites and a band I was excited to see again.  I’d seen these guys previously at the same venue, for the Warlockhunt album launch gig.  I immediately fell in love with their swampy, psyche Doom with its perfect riffs and incessant grooves.  Froglord really put on a show too, there’s nothing in their approach that hasn’t been meticulously prepared – swamp noises between songs?  Masks?  These amphibious Dark Masters are a true revelation, and I seriously urge readers to check them out soon! 

https://www.facebook.com/Froglordband

Friday night’s headliners were Cardiff based Atmospheric Doom band, Pantheist.  This band enraptured the audience with an almost symphonic take on Doom, complete with ethereal, operatic female vocals.  They’re obviously exquisite musicians and put on a great performance.  However, it was too symphonic and operatic for my tastes – like Katherine Jenkins singing along to Ghost in her bedroom.  What do I know, though?!  Everyone else – and I mean absolutely everyone else – loved Pantheist, so you should ignore me and check them out. 

https://www.facebook.com/Pantheistuk

Saturday 11th April 2026 

Some of us kind of over did it on Friday night, socialising with other North West Doom Fest attendees and enjoying the karaoke in the main bar of the Saddle.  Well, it was Frank’s (from North East Wales Metal Productions) birthday, so no excuses needed.  Happily, I managed to make it back for the start of Day Two of the fest on time and with no trouble, which is highly unusual. 

Warming things up for Day Two were Warlockhunt, festival organisers Mark and Lorraine’s Doom Pop band.  Their dual lead bass sound was now augmented with a new drummer, who had the unenviable task of filling out the sound with apocalyptic, post punk tribal rhythms.  Drums are front and centre in this band, right up there with the bass and dreamy vocals – so there’s nowhere to hide.  The sound was meticulous, no need to worry – an accomplished start to the day’s proceedings. 

https://www.facebook.com/warlockhunt/?locale=en_GB

One of the amazing things about this festival is the sheer variety of music evident within the genre of Doom.  Cruel Mother was a great example: they looked at first like people LARPing Robin of Sherwood, but they delivered a magnificent set of Doom based on Olde English (and Scottish) folk songs.  Brilliantly performed and utterly captivating.  I would’ve loved a lyric sheet to read along and explore the stories and themes!  They’re London based, if Cruel Mother are playing near you – go see them and enjoy the magick.  The outfits were cool, by the way. 

https://cruelmother.bandcamp.com/music

Helve were up next – a five piece from Leeds who unleashed a set of very heavy, sludgy Doom metal.  The performance was intense and unforgiving, with harsh, growled vocals over crushing riffs and huge soundscapes.  They reminded me a little of last year’s headliners (and one of my fanboy faves), Son of Boar.  Absolutely no complaints from me, a winning set from a great band. 

https://www.facebook.com/Helveband

I had no expectations at all regarding Sleeping Mountain, and so I was very pleasantly surprised to witness a superb band that I can add to the favourites list!  They’re a three piece, London based, and extremely effective at creating enormous Stoner Rock grooves with psychedelic and progressive overtones.  There’s some classic 70s inspiration here, with a foot planted firmly in the now, as well.  Like a grinding, cinematic early Monster Magnet.  I loved them, and made sure I picked up a copy of their excellent self-titled album on vinyl. 

https://www.facebook.com/sleepingmountainband

When Goat Major were announced on this bill, I practically shit my shoes off in excitement.  I’m already a massive fan, having reviewed their debut album, “Ritual”, for Ever Metal a while back – awarding it a solid 9/10 score.  Getting the chance to see them live was a big draw for me in attending NW Doom Fest.  And Goat Major did not disappoint, their awesome Occult Doom dripped thunderous and powerful riffage with eerie, spectral undercurrents.  Absolutely unmissable and a true highlight of the weekend! 

https://www.facebook.com/goatmajorband/?locale=en_GB

And then we had Goblin Smoker, another band I was really enthused to experience firsthand!  With releases on Sludgelord and APF Records, these guys have a quality pedigree.  Their music is classic Sabbath based Doom, with raspy, Death Metal vocals that set them apart from other bands this weekend.  This was an epic, brutalising set, taking the intensity of Death Metal into slower and fuzzier realms.  I’m just glad I was there. 

https://www.facebook.com/Goblinsmoker

Mage are a band I’ve seen live previously, they played Pentre Fest a while back.  They were amazing last time I saw them and they were even better this time around.  Seriously, Mage are the perfect Stoner/Doom Metal band, as far as I’m concerned: they cover it all, from in-you-face rockers to tripped out psyche-athons.  They remind me of a British Corrosion of Conformity, and I can think of no higher praise than that.  Their performance was riveting, even in the restricted space of the G21.  If you’re not following this band like a hungry dog, you need to be. 

https://www.facebook.com/Mageband/?locale=en_GB

And finally, then – our Saturday headliners, Old Horn Tooth: a three piece proudly representing the London Doom Collective.  Musically, this power trio deliver slow and heavy yet mesmerising Doom metal, unhurried in their approach they create something not far removed from a soundtrack to a supernatural, occult thriller.  When the riffs crash in, they are utterly devastating – and the whole experience is pulverising, yet hypnotic.  Thrilling stuff and a fitting end to a weekend of pure, definitive Doom Metal.    

https://www.facebook.com/oldhorntooth/?locale=en_GB

Well done to Lorraine and Mark, and thanks to the staff of G21/The Saddle for a spectacular festival.  There’s a one dayer planned for this summer, so keep your eyes peeled – otherwise, I’ll see you at Noth West Doom Fest IV!   

https://www.facebook.com/Thesaddleinnchester/?locale=en_GB           

Singles Night at the Virtual Hot Tub #39

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Are you ready for more rock’n’roll?  And very possibly lots of other genres of music too?  In that case, pilgrim, you’ve come to the right place.  You know it – it’s another Singles Night here at Platinum Al’s Virtual Hot Tub!

Now, for any of you brave readers who are muddled and befuddled by what a Singles Night involves, here’s the lowdown.  You see, I  possess a huge collection of 7 inch vinyl singles, none of which have been listened to (yet).  So the concept is to spend an evening playing these records – both sides – and have a grand old time doing so.

During the course of the night, we’ll hear a variety of music, old and new, with plenty of surprises.

That’s not so scary, is it?

Grab yourself a drink and let’s check out the latest playlist:

  1. Cheap Trick – “The Flame” / “Through the Night”
  2. Stiff Little Fingers – “Silver Lining” / “Safe as Houses”
  3. Belinda Carlisle – “Live Your Life Be Free” / “Loneliness Game”
  4. Salt-N-Pepa- “Let’s Talk About Sex (True Confessions Edit)” / “Let’s Talk About Sex (Super Crispy Mix)”
  5. Herb Alpert’s Tijuana Brass – “Up Cherry Street” / “Numero Cinco” / “Mexican Shuffle” / “The Girl From Ipanema”
  6. Magazine – “About the Weather” / “In The Dark”
  7. The Lotus Eaters – “The First Picture of You” / “The Lotus Eaters”
  8. James Brown – “Rapp Payback (Where iz Moses?)” / “Rapp Payback Pt. II (Where iz Moses?)”
  9. Huey Lewis & The News – “World to Me” / “It’s All Right (Live)”
  10. Dannii Minogue – “This is it” / “It’s Time to Move On”
  11. Queen – “Bohemian Rhapsody” / “These Are the Days of Our Lives”
  12. The Kinks – “Tired of Waiting for You” / “Come on Now”
  13. Big Country – “Wonderland” / “Giant”
  14. Timbuk 3 – “The Future’s So Bright I Gotta Wear Shades” / “I’ll Do Alright”
  15. Derek & The Dominos – “Layla” / Eric Clapton – “Wonderful Tonight”
  16. Jesus Jones – “Right Here, Right Now” / “Move Me” / “Damn Good at This”
  17. Big Country- “In a Big Country” / “All Of Us”
  18. Electric Light Orchestra – “Don’t Bring Me Down” / “Dreaming of 4000”
  19. The Belle Stars – “The Clapping Song” / “Blame”
  20. S’Express – “Hey Music Lover” / “Have a Nice Day”

Not a bad evening’s entertainment at all.  A thrilling exploration through several genres, from pop to punk, rock to funk, and more.  The only song I wasn’t a fan of was that hideous Clapton claptrap, so that’s a pretty decent result.

Lots of highlights, and I’m shouting out SLF, James Brown, Big Country, The Kinks and Jesus Jones as particular favourites.

Hope you enjoyed that list of killer tracks.  More soon!

Yawning Balch – Album Review

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Yawning Balch – Volume Three

Heavy Psych Sounds

Release date: 21/02/2025

Running time: 35 mins

Review by: Alun Jones

9.5/10

Dear old Jimbo Morrison, he was a clueless fool indeed. Many times, I used to drive Jim out to the desert so he could commune with shamanistic spirits in the sun-baked wilderness. Jimbo would spend hours out of his gourd, murmuring into the ether. Of course, what I used to do, was stop at a truck stop and load up on whiskey and other supplies on the way. Then when we got into the desert, ply Jimbo with the booze and feed him leaves of spinach out of a tin, telling him it was “good gear”. I’d wear a kid’s Native American fancy dress costume and mumble nonsense. Morrison never did wise up to it.

If you’re planning on a mind-expanding trip into the remote wastelands, you’d be much better off with this new album from Yawning Balch for company. The band is comprised of Fu Manchu’s Bob Balch on guitar, together with stoner rock legends Yawning Man, here consisting of Gary Arce (guitar), Mario Lalli (bass) and Bill Stinson (drums). This is volume three of a series of experiments that these gentlemen have produced, released by Heavy Psych Sounds.

Truth be told, this is a tough review to write. This is an instrumental album, consisting of just two songs. Both tracks are formed from experimental jam sessions, expansive psychedelic explorations that meander along like the Silver Surfer exploring a vast, distant galaxy. This is not an album of incendiary riffs and barking vocals.

First track ‘The Taos Hum’ is just over twenty minutes long. It will take you on an interstellar journey of shimmering guitars and rumbling percussion, resulting in a mesmerising encounter. The lack of vocals, or even a standard verse-chorus structure, doesn’t matter at all. Same story with ‘Winter Widow’, the second track: slightly shorter at 14 minutes, this is all about the journey and getting lost along the way.

“Volume Three” is a cinematic soundtrack for any road you’re on. Mellow and cerebral, this album by Yawning Balch grabbed me from the start, this is the first recording of 2025 that has captivated my senses and will be a Top Ten of the year contender. Magical and highly recommended.

Find out more about Yawning Balch on Facebook, Instagram, Spotify and Bandcamp.

This review is presented by Platinum Al in association with Ever Metal.

Ilex – Mutatio Album Review

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Ilex – Mutatio

Self released

Release date: 05/04/2024

Running time: 47 minutes

Review by: Alun Jones

8/10

There I was, just casually chilling between sets at McLeans in Pentre, when Frank – AKA Victim of Damp – said to me: “Hey Al, you should check this band out. They’re a Spanish Metal band, and they’re really good.” Frank sent me a link, and I gave said Spanish Metal band a listen. They’re called ILEX, and the album is called “Mutatio”, and he wasn’t wrong, to be fair.

“Mutatio” was actually written and worked on beginning some years ago, and eventually released back in April 2024. Even though it’s not a new release, I figured it was worth a review. What we have here is some fine thrash metal, with plenty of groove and some gargled Death vocals, with a nice experimental edge to set it off.

We start with some fine acoustic guitar on ‘Ardet Nec Consumitur’. a moody piece which erupts into the furious death-thrash of ‘F.P.T.S’. This track is fast, with a brutal chugging riff and growled vocals. Next is ‘Changing the Archetype’, where Ilex play with some contrasting tempos and sections. As we listen through the album, they’ve obviously challenged themselves to create progressive, expansive soundscapes and channel different styles.

‘Iceberg’ then begins with a slow, melodic intro: it’s an extended, progressive piece that really starts to evolve the sound. The aggressive metal in this track diverges brilliantly from the excellent, mellow middle section. The crunchier, ruthless riffs of tracks like ‘Rubble Survivor’ manage to comfortably nestle next to the spooky sound of instrumental ‘Omnia Mutantor, Nihil Interit’, as well as the bouncy groove of ‘Eyes of the Messiah’.

There’s the old school Metallica/Testament Thrash of ‘Cambrian Explosion’, but one of the highlights of the album is ‘The Pilgrimage’. Here the vocals are cleaner. but it’s the almost NWOBHM gallop of the track that really captures the groove here. Nice Purple style skronky organ at the end, too!

The production on “Mutatio” is really impressive, everything sounds clear but also has plenty of guts. The real success though is the mix of genres that Ilex are comfortable in exploring, whether that be Hardcore/Crossover, trad Thrash, Death or Groove metal – as well as the exquisite delicate moments. “Mutatio” has been maturing for a while, it’s well worth seeking out and dusting off.

Check out Ilex on Facebook, Spotify and Bandcamp.

This review is brought to you by Platinum Al in association with Ever Metal.

Singles Night at the Virtual Hot Tub #37

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You wanted it – you got it! Another Singles Night at the Virtual Hot Tub. This is where I spend an evening playing 7 inch singles that have found their way into my vinyl collection, from any number of different sources. None of the records have been played before, so I spend a few hours playing both sides and working through that pile.

There’s usually plenty of variety in the stack, with songs old and new, from any genre. Anything can happen, so just enjoy the ride.

Grab a drink and let’s check out the latest playlist:

  1. The Beatles – “Now and Then” / “Love Me Do”
  2. The Dickies – “Banana Splits” / “Hideous” / “Got It at the Store”
  3. S.S.S. – “CDC” / “Bath Night” / “Thrash with a Small Moustache” / “Black Night White Light”
  4. 999 – “Little Red Riding Hood” / “Wait For Your Number to be Called” / “I Ain’t Gonna Tell Ya”
  5. Roxy Music – “Jealous Guy” / “To Turn You On”
  6. Ram Jam – “Black Betty” / “I Should Have Known”
  7. Bee Gees – “Tragedy” / “Until”
  8. ABBA – “One Of Us” / “Should I Laugh or Cry”
  9. Sweet – “Love is Like Oxygen” / “Cover Girl”
  10. The Alarm – “Spirit of ’76” / “Where Were You Hiding When the Storm Broke? (Live)”
  11. Nancy Sinatra – “Love Eyes” / “Coastin'”
  12. Kool & The Gang – “Joanna” / “Tonight”
  13. Rick Dees & His Cast of Idiots – “Disco Duck (Pt. 1)” / “Disco Duck ({Pt. 2)”
  14. Matthew Wilder – “Break My Stride” / “Break My Stride (Instrumental)”
  15. Bee Gees – “Night Fever” / “Down the Road”
  16. Dire Straits – “Romeo & Juliet” / “Solid Rock”
  17. Nilsson – “Without You” / “Gotta Get Up”
  18. Sinitta – “Right Back Where We Started From” / “I Just Can’t Help It”
  19. Sabrina – “Boys (Summertime Love)” / “Get Ready (Holiday Rock)”
  20. Oceanic – “Insanity (Legendary Mix)” / “Reality”
  21. Charlie Pride – “The Most Beautiful Girl” / Johnny Cash – “Ring of Fire” / Crystal Gayle – “Miss the Mississippi & You” / Tammy Wynette – “Stand By Your Man” / Bertie Higgins – “Key Largo”

Twenty one records this week, and enough variety to keep anyone on their toes. Disco, punk, pop and rock classics – this was one of my best Singles Nights yet.

Notes:

The Beatles single is their last ever song, released recently and backed with their first ever single. A must for the collection.

That Dickies single is on yellow vinyl, naturally. The 999 record is plain old black vinyl, but I’ve been after that for a very long time. It was one of the songs on the first punk/new wave compilation I heard, it confused me as it didn’t sound “punk” (or what I thought was punk at the time). Great song.

SSS stands for Short Sharp Shock, a hardcore/skate thrash band from Liverpool that I can’t believe I never saw live. The last track is dedicated to Metallica bass legend Cliff Burton.

That final 7″ country record i picked up for 50p in a charity shop. Plain sleeve, so very little information – some fantastic songs though. not least my all time hero, Johnny Cash.

Sergeant Thunderhoof – The Ghost of Badon Hill Album Review

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Sergeant Thunderhoof – The Ghost of Badon Hill 

Pale Wizard Records 

Release date: 15/11/2024 

Running time: 45 minutes 

Review by: Alun Jones 

9.5/10 

Two years ago, the album “This Sceptred Veil” by Sergeant Thunderhoof made such an impression on me that it topped my end of year Top 10 for Ever Metal.  So this latest release has some pretty big boots to fill.  The pressure is on, for the band and also for your friendly scribe: I’m gonna need some new adjectives in my arsenal to do this work justice.  

A mellow guitar and whistle intro brings the listener into the world of “The Ghost of Badon Hill”.  First track ‘Badon’ opens with an almost Folky feel, and in true Thunderhoof style, takes it’s time to grow and breathe.  We’re nearly halfway through before the delicate, introspective section explodes into something epic, and the hairs on the back of your neck reach for the sky.   

‘Blood Moon’ tricks the listener with a melodic intro, before a truly classic mega-riff gets the heart pounding.  The guitars of Mark Sayer and new member Josh Gallup (who also recorded the album with the band) are multi textured throughout the album, expertly ranging from the mighty to the fragile.  A pseudo-Blues introduces ‘The Orb of Octavia’, before settling on a melancholy, gentle feel.  Augmented by Daniel Flitcroft’s soaring vocals (surely amongst the best in the UK), it’s not long before the heavy is unleashed. 

‘Salvation for the Soul’ is the most immediate and Stoner/Doom related of this collection, and it quickly became a personal favourite.  “For tonight, we ride!” – trust me, kids: THAT is a chorus!   

I’ve favourably compared Sergeant Thunderhoof to Soundgarden previously – which holds true with ‘Sentinel’ – and there’s also a strong Floydian feel here too.  The changes of pace on all the tracks ably demonstrate the expertise of the rhythm section, Jim Camp on bass and Darren Ashman on drums.  Both are confident and play with finesse.  All good things come to an end though, and our final song here, ‘Beyond the Hill’, is a ten-minute plus opus that builds through several stages on a monumental journey. 

One element of this recording that’s obvious from the start, is the length of the album.  The band made a conscious decision to lay down some boundaries and write a record that would fit on a single, rather than double, vinyl album.  Whereas I could lament the shorter running time, it does make sense to condense what the band do best.  And there’s still a cornucopia of sonic delights to enjoy regardless.  I mean, I haven’t even discussed the lyric content of the record yet!  There’s plenty enough folklore, legend and mystery to keep the audience engaged and coming back for more and more. 

“The Ghost of Badon Hill” is mission accomplished for Sergeant Thunderhoof.  A great new album, reigned in a little timewise, but sonically still delivering a cerebral and visceral punch.  Another Top 10 contender, no problem.  

Check out Sergeant Thunderhoof on their website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.

This review is brought to you by Platinum Al in association with Ever Metal.

Nebula/Black Rainbows – Album Review

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Nebula/Black Rainbows – “In Search of the Cosmic Tale: Crossing the Galactic Portal” Split 

Heavy Psych Sounds 

Release date: 28/06/2024 

Running time: 32 minutes 

Review by: Alun Jones 

8.5/10 

What’s that old saying?  Oh yeah, “I get by with a little help from my friends”.  Now neither Nebula or Black Rainbows could possibly fail on their own, so together these cosmic psychonaut supertroopers should absolutely RULE.  These guys aren’t leaning on each other, they’re building each other up to stratospheric heights. 

“In Search of the Cosmic Tale: Crossing the Galactic Portal” is the longest title I’ve ever had to type (thank the gods for copy and paste).  It’s a six-track album split between those two bands, and released by one of the most on-the-money record companies around at the moment, Heavy Psych Sounds.  So the pedigree is off the charts. 

The first three tracks are from our old buddies, the psychedelic warriors, Nebula.  There are three brand new tracks here, of which ‘Acid Drop’ is the pinnacle – a chugging, unstoppable mammoth tune that’s fuzzier than a caveman’s armpits.  ‘Eye pf the Storm’ chills the mood out a bit with an infectious, spaced-out groove that fits perfectly.  Things get a bit weirder with ‘Ceaser XXXIV’, with a lolloping riff that wiggles into your mind. 

Black Rainbows present us with ‘The Secret’, which really shouldn’t be a secret to anyone: it’s a boisterous, Sabbath style good time and probably my favourite track here.  Ah, I shouldn’t pick – but there you go.  The galactic groove continues with ‘Thunder Lights on the Greatest Sky’, another joyous ode to fuzz.  ‘Dogs of War’ wraps things up nicely with a psych wander through the sky that gradually builds to exhilarating levels.   

At just over half an hour long, this mini album/EP or whatever simply isn’t long enough.  The quality of music is fantastic though, as well it should be.  No surprises there.  Both Nebula and Black Rainbows are awesome bands that you can trust to conjure up the goods.  This beauty’s available on several different versions of sexy vinyl too, so worth shelling out for.

Check out Nebula on Facebook, Instagram, Spotify and their own website here.

Check out Black Rainbows on Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Bandcamp and their own website here.

This review is brought to you by Platinum Al in association with Ever Metal. 

Singles Night at the Virtual Hot tub #34

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Here we go with another Singles Night! Just like Kool and the Gang said – no wait, that was “Ladies Night”. Totally different event altogether. Well, don’t let that be any concern for you, good reader – let’s spend an evening of musical fun and adventure anyway!

What, you may well ask, is “Singles Night at the Virtual Hot Tub”? If you know, feel free to skip this bit. Otherwise, I’ll explain.

Singles

In essence, I have a huge stack of 7 inch vinyl singles that I haven’t played yet. And they need to be played before I can add them to my super sophisticated filing system. So on Singles Night, I grab a bunch of these records and play ’em, A side then B side, one after the other, whilst having a wee drinkie or three.

It’s great fun. It rocks. Here’s the latest playlist:

  1. The Rezillos – “I Can’t Stand My baby” / “I Wanna Be Your Man”
  2. The Rezillos – “Top of the Pops” / “20,000 Rezillos Under the Sea”
  3. The Ruts – “Something That I Said” / “Give Youth A Chance”
  4. Sweet Dreams – “Honey Honey” / “I Surrender”
  5. The Steve Gibbons Band – “Tupelo Mississippi Flash” / “Till the Fire Burns Out”
  6. Showaddywaddy – “You Got What It Takes” / “Showboat”
  7. Goombay Dance Band – “Sol de Jamaica” / “Isla de Suenos”
  8. KC & The Sunshine Band – “That’s the Way (I Like It)” / “Ain’t Nothin’ Wrong”
  9. Dollar – “Mirror Mirror” / “Radio”
  10. Siouxsie & The Banshees – “Hong Kong Garden” / “Voices”
  11. Suzi Quatro – “I Go Wild” / “I’m a Rocker”
  12. Rose Tattoo – “Rock’n’Roll is King” / “I Had You First”
  13. Deep Purple – “Black Night” / “Speed King”
  14. Elton John – “Blue Eyes” / “Hey Papa Legba”
  15. Berlin – “Take My Breath Away” / Giorgio Moroder – “Radar Radio”
  16. Motley Crue – “Primal Scream” / “Dancing on Glass”
  17. The Damned – “White Rabbit” / “Rabid (Over You)” / “Seagulls”
  18. Booker T & The MGs – “Green Onions” / “Boot Leg”
  19. Bobby Brown – “On Our Own” / “On Our Own (with Rap)”
  20. De La Soul – “Ring Ring Ring (Ha Ha Hey)” / “Pile and Piles of Demo Tapes Bi-Da Miles”

And there we go, mes amis. A right old concoction and no mistake. But you know what? The odd dud in the playlist only makes the good stuff sweeter. And when you’re having fun, those duds ain’t so bad anyway.

The odd horror from the fabled car boot box of doom still lingering here, but they’re slowly dying off. Instead, a veritable feast of punk rock wonders, from the Rezillos, Ruts, Siouxsie and The Damned. That Damned track is, of course, a cover of the Jefferson Airplane song, and not one of my favourites – though the two songs on the B side are absolutely wonderful.

Plenty of other delights with Rose Tattoo and a double sided banger from Deep Purple, not to mention a Crue song I actually really like.

I hate the film Top Gun – never managed to see it all the way through – and not a huge fan of the Berlin track, but hey, it was a freebie. Likewise, that Bobby Brown song from Ghostbusters II is a huge drop in quality from the Ray Parker Jr classic. Some pop genius from KC & the Sunshine Band and Booker T keeps us on track nicely, though.

All in all, another successful night’s entertainment. Stay tuned for more soon, folks – I’ve got loads of these discs for ya and they’re itching for a spin!