SPELLBLAST - Nineteen

This album was a stream of fresh air coming out from our speakers! Power Symphonic Metal from Italy ...mature, technical and catchy compositions and influences unprecedented for the genre: Spaghetti Western touches reminiscent of Ennio Morricone and Luis Bacalov color the whole thing with originality.  
Without musical chatter and mostly without fillers, full of pleasant surprises and twists "Nineteen" is an album that will keep your interest from the first to the last second.

Rating: 5/5

ALICE COOPER performs "Rock Candy" with Sammy Hagar and Richie Sambora

 

January 2, 2014 - Drummer Glen Sobel (IMPELLITTERI, ORIANTHI, SIXX A:M, PAUL GILBERT) has posted footage of the MONTROSE classic "Rock Candy" from the annual ALICE COOPER benefit for the Maui Food Bank which took place on New Years eve in Maui, Hawaii.

 

Alice Cooper and band were joined on stage by actors and rock legends performing their biggest hits, covers and some left field surprises with the AC band members serving as house band. Steven Tyler (AEROSMITH), Sammy Hagar (CHICKENFOOT, VAN HALEN), Richie Sambora (BON JOVI), 'Weird' Al Yankovic, Pat Simmons (DOOBIE BROTHERS), producer Bob Rock (METALLICA, MOTLEY CRUE) and actor Keith Carradine all performed along with actor Tom Arnold as the evenings emcee.

 

Original MONTROSE frontman Sammy Hagar and Richie Sambora took the stage with the band on "Rock Candy" which can be viewed at this location: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=di153Q83xaM. Alice's band for the night consisted of  Orianthi and Ryan Roxie on guitars, Chuck Garric on bass, and Glen Sobel on drums.

RHAPSODY OF FIRE - Dark Wings Of Steel

Like many fans worldwide I was quite anxious about how the band would sound without one of their main gears in their machine. It was 2012 when Luca Turilli left the band seeking new challenges for his work, leaving the rest of the band seeking new inspiration and continuing the legend. What seemed like a turning point though ends up into a very interesting approach and right from the first minute, the band is making it's statement loud and clear for everyone. They continue to play the same mixture of Power Metal, with tons of Symphonic elements, the kind of music that made them so famous all those years. All the things the fans loved with their previous works, are here, from the catchy choruses to the Epic elements, and the pompous arrangements, everything is here to assure that this change won't stop the train from running. On the other hand, this time things are a bit more traditional, and a bit more dark to fit the title. While all trademarks are here, this time the atmosphere is a bit more Metal and more harsh than before, giving a very interesting aspect to the music of the band, and maybe a glimpse of what's to come. Musicwise the album is moving on the same quality level, with huge arrangements, parts to sing along, catchy music and performances. To talk about the keyboard melodies of Staropoli or the work of Fabio Lione on vocals would be meaningless, since both musicians need no introduction or proof of their skills, but we have to mention the guitar work that has been done by Roby De Michelli. He is mostly responsible for the shift to a more Metal sound, with his catchy riffs and solos, and being the only guitarist on this album he has done a remarkable job. The arrangements are well worked, with enough diversity to please both new and old fans. Songs that contain all of the trademarks of the band, but also don't afraid to strip down to more natural and Metal forms, this album has more than enough breathtaking moments. For those who still have concerns, give this album some time, and you won't regret.