Blogs
Psychedelic Russian rockers Bongtower deliver their galactic doom album Oscillator II with otherworldly concepts and a journey through the solar system. Self released on January 19th 2022, each track follows the group's odyssey from planet to planet with robotic interludes announcing each arrival and departure.
Starting out on planet earth and beginning the launch into space is the song “Phase”. As we are told the universe is not made for us, the fuzzy thick distorted guitars and angry drums are all around us on the track “For All Mankind”, reminding us of our mission and to find the ultimate answer. Standout songs include the epic thirteen minute track called "Mars" that raises the bar.. Other enjoyable songs such as "Uranus” focus on the vocalist's gravelly growls and sludge guitars, and the dynamic clean breakdowns on these songs makes you feel like you're floating around somewhere in deep space until there's a sudden disturbance from catastrophic guitar frequencies. The album ends with the Vangelis Cover “Alpha” resolving with closure but leaving you wanting more.
Oscillator II plays like the soundtrack to some of my favorite science fiction movies and shows. Original in storytelling with the distinct psychedelic doom sound, Oscillator II is a dynamic record that sets Bongtower apart from other artists in the genre. Carl Sagan would be proud.
Submerge yourself into this album like virtual reality and reach out and touch the stars.
Listen Here >>> https://www.playgroundz.rocks/bongtower
What do The Beatles, Harry Styles and Aliens have in common? Two identical things: Alessi Brothers! Inbox
By mike, 2022-01-27
For Immediate Release
PR: Rick Eberle | rick@rickeberleagency.com
The Alessi Brothers Present: “Eden Roc”
International Pop Legends Release a New Batch of their Signature Harmony Blend
What do The Beatles, Harry Styles and Aliens have in common? Two identical things! Long Island, NY’s Alessi Brothers.
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LISTEN TO THE EDEN ROC SAMPLER ON YOUTUBE
The Alessi Brothers’ timeless melodies have remained ethereal in American popular music, and have grown even more beloved across the globe, garnering nearly 50 million listens and averaging 350K monthly listeners on Spotify. Take for instance their hit song “Seabird,” the gentle tune is a favorite of British born superstar Harry Styles, as he featured the track on his Apple Music “at home” playlist to endure the pandemic. “Seabird” was also used during the credits of Taika Waititi's film “Hunt for the Wilderpeople” and in the new comedy-drama series “Resident Alien”. Additionally, their tune “Do You Feel It” was recently sampled by The xx on "Say Something Loving". They are also an unabashed favorite of international supermodel, author, and actress Emily Ratajkowski.
The duo have just released their latest pop single, “I’m In Love,” which is the first single off the upcoming album “Eden Roc.” The Lennon-McCartney original was penned during The Beatles’ early days, but never recorded for official release. (The Fab Four recorded and released the track in 1963, but the tune remained in relative obscurity).
Now, Billy and Bobby Alessi are polishing this hidden gem with the unique stylistic vocal harmonies they mastered as children.
“When brothers harmonize there’s just something special about the blend,” Billy said.
These harmonies are joined by shimmering acoustic guitars that propel the track full steam ahead – the way John Lennon liked his rhythm guitars – and ripping electric leads that further excite the mix.
“I’m In Love” is by no means the Alessi Brothers’ first foray into the music of the Fab Four. They tackled the “Sgt. Pepper” cut “She’s Leaving Home” with their band Barnaby Bye and laid down a ukulele rendition of the rather fitting “Two Of Us.”
They also provided background vocals on the John Lennon and Yoko Ono album “Milk and Honey” and remixed Paul McCartney’s “No More Lonely Nights.”
Even as their songs “Seabird”, “Oh Lori,” “Put Away Your Love,” “Sad Songs,” and “All for a Reason” charted around the globe, The Alessi Brothers made a second career writing music for other world renowned artists - such as Peter Frampton, Frankie Valli and Olivia Newton John - just as Lennon and McCartney wrote hits for others to record.
Now, with their third full-length offering in four years, the brothers unveil a new batch of sweet harmonies on the uplifting “Suite” and the sleepless and uncertain “So Many Maybes.” “Don’t Bring Me Down” offers a cool breeze with an emotive saxophone accompanying piano and percussion and the pair also reflect on the strenuous past few years on “There’s A Chance” and the pandemic fueled anthem “We Will Survive.”
The Alessi Brothers’ follow-up to 2020’s “Netherland” solidifies Billy and Bobby’s legacy, a career built on great ears for a hook and a melody, exceptional vocals and well crafted songs that know no boundaries of time or place. Exceptional talent bringing you classic, original, ear candy.
Eden Roc Tracklist:
1: “Suite”
2: “Dreams Come True”
3: “We Will Survive”
4: “Sugar Plum”
5: “Don’t Bring Me Down”
6: “You Are The One”
7: “Little Wings”
8: “Always Love You”
9: “There’s A Chance”
10: “I’m In Love”
*Additional Tracks*
11: “Beautiful Day”
12: “So Many Maybes”
13: “The Best Part Of Me Is You”
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Cancel The Wall by the three piece LA desert grunge rockers The Absurd is an album that brings energy to higher levels and features vocal, percussion, and guitar driven music from start to finish.
Originally released as Build The Wall in October of 2018, Bent Knee Records has just released a third pressing. Maybe I was hiding under a rock would be the best explanation as to why I have just recently discovered them. In the light of this discovery is a new release of Build The Wall, remastered, with live bonus tracks and a new album name titled Cancel The Wall. This new pressing was released on November 18th, 2021.
Tracks such as "Squashing Pumpkins" are reminiscent of classic sludge rock and 90's acts including Stone Temple Pilots and Soundgarden. The song "Build The Wall" is a standout single to demonstrate the diversity of the group with a sway between melodic singalongs and heavy rock. On the contrary, my first exposure to Absurd was the song “Boots On The Ground” with it’s mantra style sound that resonated with me.
Cancel The Wall is an album that hints at nostalgic influences and includes a new alternative sound reminiscent of post grunge acts for those who prefer to decipher the sound in their speakers.
Like a bat out of hell comes The Chris Rolling Squad with their latest album Cannonball Holocaust. Released on April 15th, 2021, the french trio comes charging in like a bull and never lets up. A great combination of punk, thrash, and swampy rock and roll make this a unique blend of styles, similar to classic bands such as The Sex Pistols, The Misfits, Metallica, and the swampy blues riff-age of the guitar player we know as Slash.
In their opener “Wild Time” it’s sure to keep the party going all night long as they say. The party continues with the track “Hate 2000 blues”. Both tracks offer a swampy slash style of rock and roll, as heard on his work as a solo artist and with Velvet Revolver. With that, a new style emerges with the song “Trapped Inside”. Fast heavy driven thrash metal style in the likes of Metallica and Slayer. They do it so well I beg for more!
The French trio delivers hard hitting singles such as "Straight Down To Hell" and "Hollywood" to remind listeners of the yesteryears with a new spin on hard music. "Straight Down To Hell" doesn’t disappoint. It’s fast and hard. It’s got that Motorhead energy that complements the style of Trapped Inside nicely. Just when you think things can’t get any faster, comes the next track, “Faster”. And yes, it's faster.
Blending European style with traditional American metal, The Chris Rolling Squad is a band to see on center stage with mosh pit appeal and a youthful tone that will bring the crowd to their feet in a busy auditorium or at home through the speakers.
Listen Here >>> https://www.playgroundz.rocks/the-chris-rolling-squad/
For Immediate Release:
Contact: Rick Eberle | www.rickeberle.com
516-729-6872 | rick [AT] rickeberleagency.com
Singer/Songwriter Robert Eberle Releases “WHERE’S MY MIND?” EP
Impressive Young Performer Matures with Diverse Musical Offering
(New York, NY) - Fast rising Singer/Songwriter Robert Eberle is set to release his new debut EP “WHERE’S MY MIND?” to Spotify and all the major services Wednesday July 14th, 2021.
PREVIEW “WHERE’S MY MIND” ON SOUNDCLOUD
At only 16 years old, Robert Eberle already understands what it feels like to truly be heartbroken & humiliated. High school drama, trauma & abasement continue to pave the way for dreamy pop songs and airy alternative tracks.
Partially produced by Donnie Klang (Madison Beer, Sky Katz), with additional tracks done by Colton Lava and Vincent Donnadio, WHERE’S MY MIND? is a collection of songs based on teenage trauma & heartbreak. Robert remarked, “I called this record “WHERE’S MY MIND?” because both literally and figuratively, I felt lost & that no one wanted me.” “My Pre-Teen/Early Teenage years continued to shut me out and make me feel unworthy.” Eberle’s voice— melancholy, airy and versatile impresses throughout and compares to artists like Billie Eilish & Finneas.
For More Information on Robert Eberle, Go To:
Instagram: @roberteberle1
Facebook: @roberteberlemusic
Twitter: @EberleMusic
About Robert Eberle:
Robert Eberle is a young, versatile singer & songwriter. Robert writes all of his own music, lyrics and works with various producers to create unique moments within his songs. Each one of Eberle’s songs are stories and moments into his life and others around him.
Influences from an eclectic group of artists such as FINNEAS & Billie Eilish all the way to Madison Beer and Panic! At the Disco have helped to create Eberle’s genre bending darker-alternative to traditional Pop Rock.
Gnarly Karma Releases “Rags to Riches”
New Offering Highlights Strong Songwriting and a Signature Sound
(Huntington, NY) - Known for their infectious melodies and incredible live performances, Huntington based buzz band Gnarly Karma has just released their latest single, “Rags to Riches” to Spotify and all the major music services.
LISTEN TO RAGS TO RICHES ON SPOTIFY
Co written by Singer/Guitarist Michael Renert and Drummer Jarrod Beyer and recorded in California with Steve Pagano and Mario Borgatta (who have worked with many talented national acts over the years), "Rags to Riches" is the third song to be dropped from those fantastic studio sessions - after the rollicking "Brave" and the fan sing along favorite "Follow Me".
Jarrod Beyer remarked - “The statements - I love seeing you guys live because of the energy you bring - and - I have you guys on my Spotify but you guys are so much better live - are things we hear all the time. So one day we all sat down and said - how can we make our studio stuff be as energetic and captivating as our live shows?? We have the talent, drive, and chemistry to do it, we just needed a little direction in the studio. We wanted to capture that same energy in the studio that we create when we play live. I suggested to the band that we fly to California and record with Steve Pagano. We spent a week at the studio and put in hard work, and were happy with the results. You be the judge!”.
Recently featured on News 12 and 94.3 The Shark, GNARLY KARMA is an Alternative/Indie Rock Band from Long Island, New York. The group consists of five members; Mikey "Manicotti" Renert (Vocals, Guitar), Jarrod "J-Rock" Beyer (Drums), Ryan "McMagic" McAdam (Bass), Billy "Bad Bones" Hanley (Saxophone) and Adam "Sklarface" Sklar (Guitar).
Their music is most often associated with that of The Revivalists, Sublime, and Mumford & Sons, but their sound is not restricted by genre. Each member brings a wide and varied range of influences to the table, equating to the group's unique style. The band's eclectic blend of genres and spirited live performances has led to a feature in Newsday and a mention in The New York Times. Gnarly Karma has had the honor of playing Great South Bay Music Festival in 2017, 2018, & 2019 (supporting acts including Sublime with Rome, 311, Slightly Stoopid, The Wailers, Less Than Jake, and Dirty Heads), The Paramount multiple times (supporting Tim Reynolds of Dave Matthews Band, and Everlast), The Wellmont Theater (supporting Edgar Winter and Robbie Krieger of 'The Doors'), SXSW, Alive After Five, Montauk Music Festival, My Father's Place, and more! 2020 was a writing year amidst the pandemic with some amazing new music
For More on Gnarly Karma, VISIT:
For Press Inquiries, Contact: Rick@RickEberleAgency.com
Life Flows On Within You & Without You
With Jeff Lake & Cellophane Flowers
Tantalizing Troupe Presents Gorgeous Classical Renditions of Beatles Favs
(New York, NY) - Singer/songwriter Jeff Lake teams up with Grammy-nominated violinist Susan Aquila and company, to form "Cellophane Flowers” — a neo-classical spin on the music of the Fab Four.
The group has released a new music video in support of their psychedelic mashup “Within You Without You/Tomorrow Never Knows” — which can be found on the Dreamworks/ Universal Film “Shrek” sound-track playlist on Spotify alongside artists such as Smashmouth, Counting Crows, Fergie, Harry Chapin, Lionel Richie, Macy Gray, The Carpenters, & the Beastie Boys among others:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4vKsBR0At6QDqTApovWDtw?si=92a79520fc3e4427
The production here is in stark contrast to the group’s album title track, “Penny Lane”, which offers a minimalistic baroque-era approach — string quartet & voice. This track is now featured on Disney’s “Zombie” soundtrack playlist — also on Spotify.
Jeff Lake was honored to play a virtual birthday bash on 6/18/21 in honor of Sir Paul McCartney’s 79th birthday.
https://www.facebook.com/beatlesfest
The Spotify placements, along with a growing social media presence and monthly virtual gigs on the Beatles Fest Facebook site — have resulted in 12,250 monthly followers at present.
The “Penny Lane” collection is available on CD at Amazon, Walmart, Barne’s & Noble, & Tower Records. It’s also available on streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, & Deezer, as well as digital download at the iTunes store.
Look for Jeff Lake’s new EP, “Field of Grass’ to be released internationally via The Orchard later this summer.
More about Cellophane Flowers:
Founded by singer-songwriter Jeff Lake in 2015, Cellophane Flowers began by playing venues in NYC such as The Bitter End, & The Slipper Room, before becoming a mainstay with the annual Fest For Beatle Fans. A year later they signed with WBA Records in Nashville and began performing at theaters across the U.S. Cellophane Flowers has a repertoire that includes other classic rock artists, a Xmas show, as well as their own original music.
Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cellophaneflowersmusic/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cellophaneflowersband/
Starting This Saturday: I'm Presenting Free Live Concerts at Eisenhower Park Every Week
By , 2021-06-26
Guy Brogna and I (G & R Events) are proud to present FREE LIVE CONCERTS at Eisenhower Park Lakeside Theater EVERY SATURDAY from 8pm-10pm! Bring the crew this week to see Roots Foundation playing the best of Bob Marley and more!
Brought to you by Jovia Financial Credit Union Nassau County Executive Laura Curran All Music Inc. Rick Eberle Agency
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For Immediate Release:
Contact: Rick Eberle | www.rickeberleagency.com
516-729-6872 | rick@rickeberleagency.com
The 24th Annual Long Island International Film Expo is August 10th - 15th
Top Independent Film Festival To Deliver In Theater and Virtual Movies
Bellmore, NY (June 17th, 2021) - The Long Island International Film Expo (LIIFE) is the premiere filmmaker community on Long Island, and one of the most respected festivals of its kind in the world; showing almost 125 feature-length films in many different genres each year. Sponsored by the Long Island Film-TV Foundation (LIFTF), the County of Nassau, the Nassau County Industrial Development Agency and Gold Coast Studios, this year the 24th Annual installment will be held from August 10th - August 15th 2021 at the historic Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Ave, Bellmore, NY. In addition to the in-theater experience, this year many of LIIFE’s films will also be shown virtually, and will feature films from around the globe including:
Tango Shalom which is actor Joseph Bologna's last film; his son Gabriel Bologna (Director) was an actor in "Tracks" which won at LIIFE and directed The Elevator (HBO Original Release); Produced by Joel Zwick (My Big Fat Greek Wedding) and Robert Meyer Burnett (Agent Cody Banks franchise) and includes Emmy Award winning and Academy Award nominated Actress Renee Taylor (The Do Over, The Nanny, How to be a Latin Lover), Academy Award nominated actress Lainie Kazan (My Favorite Year, My Big Fat Greek Wedding), Jos Laniado (Jessica Jones), Judi Beecher (Taken 3), Bern Cohen (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), Karina Smirnoff (Dancing With the Stars) and Marci Fine (Saturday Night Live). My Promise to PJ starring Alec Baldwin, Daniel Baldwin, Stephen Baldwin and William Baldwin, One Moment starring Danny Aiello in his final performance as well as LIIFE's past Rising Star honoree, Sal Rendino (Billions), The Soul of a Farmer with Isabella Rossellini, Lie Hard starring Catherine Curtin (Stranger Things, Orange is the New Black), Joel Marsh Garland (Orange is the New Black), Alysia Curtin (Orange is the New Black) and Melanie Chandra (Code Black) as well as countless other phenomenal films to enjoy all festival long. There is also the Friday the 13th Horror Block at 11:30 PM and a NEW Midnight Madness Block at 11:30 PM Saturday August 14th.
LIIFE is proud to feature Twenty eight films made by Long Islanders, Twenty World Premieres, Nine US Premieres, Thirty-nine New York Premieres, Thirty-seven Long Island Premieres, and Films from ten countries! There are also Thirty Three Female Directors, a record for LIIFE.
The Closing Night Party and Awards Ceremony will be held on Sunday, August 15, 2021 at Bellmore Movies starting at 5:30pm. This year’s presenters and honorees as well as a full slate of panels will be announced shortly.
This year’s panels are free, but you must get your tickets online at www.longislandfilm.com/tickets
You can also learn more about specific showings/times and purchase tickets at: www.longislandfilm.com
Festivals of the past have included such luminaries as the late Danny Aiello, Ed Asner, Blue Bloods’ Robert Clohessy and Abigail Hawk, Ralph Macchio, John Amos, Ally Sheedy, 30 Rock’s Kevin Brown, Cathy Moriarty, Steve Buscemi, Ed Burns, William Sadler, Ilene Kristen, and so many more.
LIIFE has become a must attend festival for serious filmmakers; with local and foreign film screenings, celebrity appearances, entertaining and informative panels, a star-studded awards ceremony, Q & A with filmmakers from the world over and networking galore.
LIIFE's sister festival, Scared for Your LIIFE, a short horror festival, is open for submissions at https://filmfreeway.com/ScaredforyourLiife and the event will be held October 22, 2021 - further details TBA.
For More Information on LIIFE, Visit: www.LongIslandFilm.com
For Press Inquiries, Contact: Rick@RickEberleAgency.com
Take a Wistful Walk Down Penny Lane With Jeff Lake & Cellophane Flowers
Tantalizing Troupe Presents Gorgeous Classical Renditions of Beatles Favs
Singer/songwriter Jeff Lake teams up with Grammy nominated violinist Susan Aquila and company, to form "Cellophane Flowers” — a neo-classical spin on the music of the Fab Four.
The group has just released their 2nd single from the “Penny Lane” collection — a psychedelic mashup of “Within You Without You/ Tomorrow Never Knows” which can be found on Dreamworks/Universal Film’s Shrek playlist on Spotify alongside artists such as Smashmouth, Counting Crows, Fergie, Harry Chapin, Lionel Richie, Macy Gray, The Carpenters, & the Beastie Boys among others: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4vKsBR0At6QDqTApovWDtw?si=92a79520fc3e4427
The track feature’s Aquila’s violin virtuosity steeped with long delays followed by rich textures of synth, drums loops, and Lake’s smooth vocal delivery which is a constant throughout the album. The production here is in stark contrast to the album title track which offers a minimalistic baroque era approach — string quartet & voice. The “Penny Lane” collection is available on CD at Amazon, Walmart, Barne’s & Noble, & Tower Records. It’s also available on streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, & Deezer, as well as digital download at the iTunes store.
Look for Jeff Lake’s 5 song, original debut EP, “Field of Grass" to be released on Labor Day, with a full length, 12 song album, “Misbehavin’” to follow — both collections to be released courtesy of WBA Records in Nashville, and distributed worldwide via The Orchard.
Jeff Lake & Cellophane Flowers continue to be a monthly fixture on the
ongoing Friday Night Virtual Beatles Fest series.
On Friday, 6/18, Jeff is especially honored to be performing on Paul McCartney’s birthday. For this special show, Jeff and pianist Chris Clark (Brand X, Wicked, Mama Mia) will be performing songs from all phases of Sir Paul’s catalogue — classic hits and deep cuts from Wings, The Beatles, and his solo collection. You can see that on Facebook LIVE at 7pm at https://www.facebook.com/beatlesfest
Other shows include a performance with cellist Alexandra Moiseeva on Sunday, 6/13, 7pm LIVE at https://www.facebook.com/cellophaneflowersmusic
More about Cellophane Flowers:
Founded by singer-songwriter Jeff Lake in 2015, Cellophane Flowers began by playing venues in NYC such as The Bitter End, & The Slipper Room, before becoming a mainstay with the annual Fest For Beatle Fans. A year later they signed with WBA Records in Nashville and began performing at theaters across the U.S. Cellophane Flowers has a repertoire that includes other classic rock artists, a Xmas show, as well as their own original music.
Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cellophaneflowersmusic/
Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cellophaneflowersband/
Stoner HiVe
Acid Magus – Caligulater
Smitten with their first single Demon Behemoth, we are giddy with glee to announce their second one called Caligulater! It’s the Acid Magus five and they are back to give us some more! It’s the second single of the their upcoming new album Hope Is Heavy which will be released on Mongrel Records. And it’s dynamite! Go listen below!
Pretoria based South African experimental rock band Acid Magus have been making waves in the music scene since their 2021 debut release Wyrd Syster. The album was well received by international media, with the likes of tastemakers The Sleeping Shaman saying it’s “cracking with both light and darkness, melody and cacophony and worthy of multiple spins on the platter, debut effort and all”.
Now a 5-piece, 2023 sees the band returning stronger than ever with a new vocalist and addition of a second guitarist plus a forthcoming album Hope Is Heavy, set for release in July 2023 via Mongrel Records. New single Caligulater comes off the back of the albums immersive debut single Demon Behemoth which released in February this year.
Continuing the cynical theme established with Demon Behemoth, Caligulater derives its name from the infamous emperor Gaius, otherwise known as Caligula. He was the megalomaniacal third emperor of Rome, a man steeped in violent and sadistic excess. In short, not a cool guy. Guitarist and songwriter Keenan Kinnear delves into the message behind the song, “Caligulater explores my feelings concerning myself and my place in society. My own existential crisis and self-imposed vitriolic outlook on the world when at my worst. The “they” in the main hook, “they made us, betrayed us and enslaved us” can be applied to any subject. It could be Caligula himself concerning the citizens of Rome circa 37 AD or your parents, boss, society as a whole etc. It can even apply to yourself in the end.”
The Machine – Wave Cannon
Majestic Mountain Records – 2023
Rock, Stoner, Psych, Grunge
Rated: *****
I was there for the final farewell show in the Effenaar in Eindhoven, the Netherlands, that said goodbye to founding member and drummer Davy Boogaard. But this right here, that slab of pure gold that has been spinning for the past month, can perhaps be seen as a final salute, a final shot from a cannon, a final monument, sounding taller, wilder, freakier and more intense, like a gigantic balled up fist towards the heavens. Five years after Faceshift, Dutch stoner rocking trio The Machine are back with Wave Cannon and after this release, only guitarist and vocalist David Eering will be left of the original founding three. But before we get to teared-up, we know The Machine goes on, and we know Mr. Eering has implored drummer Klaas Dijkstra to kick ass with the new set-up that also includes bass player Chris Both, who has been present for the past five years. The Machine rolls on, the three continue, and will have six new tracks to add to their already huge back catalogue of songs. Starting Wave Cannon off is the first single called Reversion, which feels like a river of dreams that steadily flows on top off an extra heavy undercurrent, that slowly dissipates into a calm rippling pool of warmth. On many levels you feel a return to what The Machine is and always has been and probably will be about, a steadiness that feels reassuring, a build-up or in this case a decrease in tension that you desperately want to follow, like the white rabbit, deeper into its hole, and a groove that can make you go into a trance. Reversion is seminal The Machine and feels like the perfect way to start Wave Cannon. Second track Genau Or Never starts with sounds from a wooden wind chime, add the drums, that rolling bass and highly floating guitar work, that slowly and surely become this gigantic, but gradual build up and once again brings you a new wave of The Machine goodness. Glider sees them going off into their perhaps most grungy territory to date, which continues on, on the shortest song from the new album, the three minute and thirty five seconds long Ride On Crash Kick. All four of which perhaps serve as the perfect window into the different sides of The Machine, the more hallucinogenic grooves as the two song starter and the more fuzzy and gritty take on stoner trucking with the final two. Return to Sphere (Kneiter II) is another return to form and shimmies up to the opening track of the album in a way that the original Sphere (… or Kneiter) from 2012 never did. Cause that song, always felt like the king hitter on that Calmer Than You Are album and a stand-alone, stoner rock, high water mark of those first five years of The Machine. The new Sphere track, feels like a stoner rocking cosmic adventure, that does not just serve you a head banging groove but also a destination for your mind. The way they let this heavy psych track crackle and pop and show you a melody that feels as elusive as it is recognizable, is simply stunning. It lures you ever deeper into the labyrinthian space, where the pull not only comes in the form of gravity but also from echoing vocals that soar and give it all this highly Siren quality. Calmer Than You Are bringing you back into focus for only a few seconds. And after that middle mark, the way you feel a calm and peaceful silence permeate the structure and the reverb, the slow rippling waves of trickling sound, punctuated by a return of a tender guitar, slowly building again towards what becomes this rocking and funky ending, referencing the original Sphere and Calmer Than You Are even more. Ending the album is title track Wave Cannon, condensing what the first five tracks did and perhaps even what The Machine has done throughout the era’s that David and Davy sailed the seas of heaviness together. Together they delivered an amazing collection of albums that will forever stand tall among all others in this genre we all love. And Wave Cannon is another chapter in that story, a story that sees The Machine turning over a new page. David and Davy, it seems like a lifetime. And even though we are already eager to hear how it will all translate on stage with the new drummer and what the three that are now The Machine might produce on another album in the future, we do feel tears welling up, every time, those final waves of feedback start rolling in and eventually go full stop…
(Written by JK)
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Okktli – Okktli
Self released – 2023
Rock, Hard, Metal, Seventies, Stoner
Rated: ****
We don’t really got there that often, but recently we got pulled into the statistics page for our little blog about heavy rock, started back in 2009. And we noticed that the Number One city from across the globe that houses most of the Stoner HiVe followers is apparently Mexico City! Muchas gracias desde el fondo de mi corazón! And since fourpiece Okktli hails from that wonderous city, we of course had to write a few words of praise about their self-titled, four track release. Okktli brings you a lot of traditional metal and hard rock, that takes its cues from the blues, the seventies, stonerrock and grunge. Indeed, there is proto loving goodness here and it might be most audible on that lovely third track Deny with the extra keywork, bringing it all back to the ‘it’s all happening’ era. But opener The Shaman already sets the tone with that lovely intro and the ominous, doom toned guitars and drums, accompanied by a wonderful vocalist that seems to be able to do many styles with his voice. Eleven minutes long it sports both meaty riffs and airy flourishes that are highly soulful and so subtle it immediately lifts this entire composition to sultry heights. Final song Our Hope Is Gone, with a handful of power chords, almost ballad like vocals and dizzying solo work, will surely become a favorite to many of the Okktli fans. But all of the songs have their quality and manage to rub against a bit of sweet as much as it does to more sour stuff, and all of that makes it one damn fine debut. And one we should all have a drink in honor for... Salud!
(Written by JK)
Datcha Mandala - Hit & Roll
Taken from their last EP called The Last Drop, it’s the new video for Dätcha Mandala’s song Hit & Roll! Heavy rock of the classic, bluesy and seventies kind! The Last Drop was released last year through Mrs Red Sound and comes with a mini-documentary entitled 'In Studio With Dätcha Mandala' about the band's recording and creative process. Hit & Roll is irresistible and groovy!
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Stoner HiVe’s
Top 10 Most Listened Albums Last Week…
Elefant Talk
Desert Storm
Dryad
Hex A.D.
JAAW
Waste A Saint
Wolfnaut
Parte de Nada
Eye of Aquila
Red Mess
This should have gone up yesterday. But as usual, life got in the way… The above list of bands and their respective albums have ben on heavy rotation over here. As well as quite a few others, cause we still cannot get enough of that Santo Rostro, Hail The Void, Acid King or the new ISAAK. And there are so many other albums about to be released that are equally stunning.. Incredible musical times we live in! It’s been spring time for heavy rock for a long time now, stoner, psych, prog and yes, the doom are all in bloom!
The Ripple Effect
When I was a kid, growing up in a house with Cat Stevens, Neil Diamond, and Simon and Garfunkel, the first time I ever heard Kiss's "Detroit Rock City," it was a moment of musical epiphany. It was just so vicious, aggressive and mean. It changed the way I listened to music. I've had a few minor epiphanies since then, when you come across a band that just brings something new and revolutionary to your ears.
What have been your musical epiphany moments?
In my younger years 8-9 years old I had an older cousin Calvie that turned me on to Guns and Roses / Poison / rock and roll posters and leather jackets but I think my biggest epiphany was during a game of road hockey when I was a pre teen. I remember a buddy of mine breaking out this ghetto blaster and playing the Green Day Dookie cassette it blew my mind. The melodies and lyrics compared to the hair metal I was listening to were just incredible. I was a punker for life after that. Am I dating myself too much?? Cassette tapes. Ha!
Talk to us about the song-writing process for you. What comes first, the idea? A riff? The lyrics? How does it all fall into place?
Song writing process for me is really basic i will literally have music / lyrics pop into my head it doesn't stay long and I try to capture as much as possible. I usually run to my audio recorder on my phone / grab my acoustic and try to play what's in my head. I record it as quick as possible. I literally have a few minutes to do this or it will leave my brain again. If I don't record it I spend the rest of my afternoon angry at myself for not recording it. I'd be lost without phone recording capabilities. I have 100s of song blurbs recorded on my phone. From there I write lyrics down on paper in my horrible hand writing. I show up at practice and get the guys all amped up for new material. They're all such wonderful musicians we usually have the base for a song within a couple of tries. We build from there. Try to up difficulty because my songs are all 3 chords. Viola. Punk tunes.
Who has influenced you the most?
My biggest influence in music is my dad. He's a pro blues harmonica player and a wonderful musicians as well. He bought me my first guitar. He played great music around me as a kid from Tom Petty to Cat Stevens. He encouraged me to keep at it. You wanna hear him play harmonica? It's unreal.
Where do you look for continuing inspiration? New ideas, new motivation?
I'm always looking for new music. I've been listening to "The Bronx" alot lately. Killer band. I'm a music junkie. I'm not limited to just punk rock. I can have John Prine spinning in the morning and NOFX on in the afternoon. I'm all over the place. I like rap. I like metal. I like country. I just love everything if it's genuine. I don't like getting Pigeon holed on music genres. No time for gatekeeping
We're all a product of our environment. Tell us about the band's hometown and how that reflects in the music?
I grew up in eastern Canada. Al's from Vancouver Island. Jeff and Mike are from Alberta. My home town of North sydney on Cape Breton was a great little place to grow up. I loved it there. They had a great punk music scene when I was a kid. I miss it like crazy.
Where'd the band name come from?
Chuck Spadina was a stage name rejected by Keanu Reeves Hollywood agents. I saw a story about it on line and thought it would be a funny band name. I'm a big bill and Ted fan so it was a no brainer for me. The guys took a bit of persuasion but they warmed up to my crazy idea.
You have one chance, what movie are you going to write the soundtrack for?
Back to the future part 4. No question. This was an easy one.
You now write for a music publication (The Ripple Effect?). You're going to write a 1,000 word essay on one song. Which would it be and why?
A Chuck Spadina song or someone else's song? Tough one. Free bird. I think far too often about my own mortality and when I was messed up in the mid 2000s I made a pack with a buddy of mine to kick my ashes off a cliff during the freebird solo. I could easily write 1000 words about the chaos in my life at that point. Ha!
Come on, share with us a couple of your great, Spinal Tap, rock and roll moments?
God damn spinal tap. Great stuff. When I was a kid playing in my punk band we had this amazing outdoor festival on a harbour. I jumped in the harbour mid set and swam away. That's all I have to say about that. Forrest Gump
Tell us about playing live and the live experience for you and for your fans?
Playing live is my biggest passion. I love it. I just try to throw as my energy and heart at the crowd as possible. I just got amped up. I usually feel like throwing up for 3 hours prior to the set but I'm working on some breathing techniques to curb that.
What makes a great song?
Verse chorus verse chorus. Bridges are great too but not always. I love a hard rock solo.
What one single album do you wish that you'd written or performed on, and why?
I wish I wrote nirvana nevermind just can't imagine the chaos in Kurt's life and what that experience would have felt like. I bet they didn't think it would be this big.
What piece of your music are particularly proud of?
I like all our songs. New album is going to have some rippers too. I'm super proud of our debut album Rough year. Plug plug
Who today, writes great songs? Who just kicks your ass? Why?
Shaela miller. Country singer from Alberta. Great stuff. I also like Tim Huss writing he's another country guy. For punk tunes I really like teenage bottle rocket. Weaslecore kind stuff. Fun simple fast. Lyrics aren't too deep. Just fun stuff. Check out the Bronx too.
Vinyl, CD, or digital? What's your format of choice?
Digital. We are poor. CDs are second because they're affordable. Vinyl is out of the question. It's Chuck Spadina not Chuck Rockefeller
Whiskey or beer? And defend your choice
Beer. Too many bad experiences on whiskey. I'm a rational human on beer. Not so much on whiskey.
We, at the Ripple Effect, are constantly looking for new music. What's your home town, and when we get there, what's the best record store to lose ourselves in?
Sacks thrift ave has killer vinyl in red deer. We rehearse in the basement.
What's next for the band?
New record. Festivals. Great shows coming up. The vat on Feb 17th with trashed ambulance and the off sailors.
Any final comments or thoughts you'd like to share with our readers, the waveriders?
Thanks for doing this.
We're absolutely frothing about this weeks release! Morass of Molasses have been some of our favorites in the underground for years now, and we've been entrusted with unleashing the apocalyptic magic of their brand new album 'End All We Know'.
It's a monolithic stoner blues effort and an album we think you're going to fall head over heels for as we have.
Get your copy here:
https://ripplemusic.bandcamp.com/album/end-all-we-know
Morass of Molasses create a rich blend of lumbering heavy blues riffs and emotive vocals. They have effortlessly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with live, having shared stages with such luminaries as Crowbar, Orange Goblin, Elephant Tree, and Green Lung. In the post-pandemic world, the band release their 3rd studio Album ‘End All We Know,’ a diverse collection of songs that continues their trajectory into new and unexplored musical territory.
We've pressed this record on CD and LP including a limited edition "Armageddon" pressing featuring black and clear galaxy marbled vinyl!
Grab yours here:
https://ripplemusic.bandcamp.com/album/end-all-we-know
Happy listening,
Ripple Music
Mark Murdock- False Readings
Mark Murdock- Drums/Keyboards/Synthesizers/Percussion, Tim Pepper- Vocals, Fernando Perdomo- Guitar, Ron Howden- Drums, Derek ‘Mo’ Moore- Bass, Ryche Chlanda- Guitar, Kendall Scott- Synth, Ken Hall- Guitar, Katsumi Yoneda- Guitar, Dave Juteau- Guitar, Daniel Kubota- Guitar, David Rambeau- Guitar
Distant Sirens is a very catchy prog rock tune with amazing musicianship and vocals. Volatility Swaying close your eyes and let the memories flow. Remain in Darkness take a trip back to the magical music of the 70s and enjoy the journey. Until I Reach the End screaming leads pounding drums thumping bass catchy riffs and melodic vocals. Pure as the Driven Snow the emotions just send shivers down your spine. False Readings is a very catchy tune that just sticks in your head for days. Symposium of the Greatest Failures one excellent melodic musical mind trip. Singularities is a very bluesy jazzy tune with great music. The Extremities of My Dreams drifting on a melodic cloud of memories. Ending World Overture searing leads steady rhythms and great musicianship.
Knogjärn- Mera Bedovning
Kim Eriksson – Vocals, Markus Hurtig – Guitar, Rasmus Sörbom – Bass, Johan Hidén -Drums
BEDÖVNING pounding drums crunchy riffs thundering bass and strong vocals. EN SISTA GÅNG fist pump head bang and just thrash about. INTE MITT FEL lost in strange musical dreams. VARJE GÅNG sway groove and just rock till you drop. VAD DU ÄN BEHÖVER fist pump head bang and foot stomp. ALDRIG MER cose your eyes and dream. KOPPLET RUNT MIN HALS thrash shred and tear it up. FEL has a very catchy groove and great vocals. VAD VILL DU HA slow grinding metal music. 365 just drift in your imagination. AKTA DIG sway groove and fist pump. SNABBHATSKEDJA hit the pit and mosh till you drop.
Prog Collective- Seeking Peace
STEVE HILLAGE, JON DAVISON, James LaBrie, Graham Bonnet, Steve Morse, Steve Stevens, Jordan Rudess, Geoff Downes, Patrick Moraz, Frank DiMino, Chester Thompson, Billy Sherwood, David Sancious,
Electric World just close your eyes and take one magical musical journey. Seeking Peace drifting on a cloud of memories. In An Instant take a trip back in time to the magical prog rock of the 70s and enjoy the journey. Finally Over soft melodies envelops your spirit. A Matter Of Time melodic vocals steady bests and great music. Take The Path is a very catchy tune that sticks in your head. All Is Meant To Be lost in the depths of imagination. Electric World (Full Length Version) just let the amazing prog rock pull you in. All Is Meant To Be (Full Length Version) soaring keyboards s melodic vocals pounding drums with thumping bass.
Vick LeCar's Gallus Rex- ST
Vick Lecar- Guitar, Rueben Williams- Vocals, Jonathan Limjuco/Cujo - Bass, Eric Bolivar- Drums, Vegas Butler's - Backup Vocals, Nick Knee_case- Keyboards.
Riding High sway groove with a tune with lots of Whitesnake influences. When It Rains close your eyes and drift in your dreams and memories. Dead On The Inside take a trip back in time with a very bluesy tune that just chugs along. If Heaven Takes You First lost in the depths of your imagination. My Guitar And I screaming leads soulful vocals soaring organ pounding drums with thumping bass.
Die Oberherren- Die by My Hand
Band Members- ????
The Horned One Stabs close your eyes and drift away in your dark imaginations. By the end of the Shore sway groove and let the emotions envelop your spirit. Catrine strange memories pull you into deep depths of dreams. The Blood or the Wine stand clap foot tap and just rock to a catchy tune. Clans of Darkness and Smoke lost in memories and emotions. Guns and Pills gothic music that envelops your senses. Black Nightshade will have the crowd on its feet just grooving. Something Wicked sway sing shout and just flow with the music.
-Xroadie
Direct from the horses mouth, aka the band...
Greetings,
Following our December 2022 DIY relealse "Intergalactic Party Powder" Robot Death Monkey are back with a music video for the smash hit "Asgardian Micro Whitey" Filmed at the iconic Usher Hall in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Stay Rad
Robot Death Monkey
Bandcamp Link: (Free Download NYP)
https://robotdeathmonkey.bandcamp.com/album/intergalactic-party-powder
Spotify song Link: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0MYQph1PXR1ytu79pZfXfT?autoplay=true
What is your full name?
Katerina Economou, I’m the vocalist of Escuela Grind
What was the first instrument that you played?
I always sang, but the first instrument I played was the clarinet
Tell me about one of your first musical memories?
I was exposed to live music and theatre from an early age. My parents used to have a restaurant where they would have acts come in and entertain and I loved staying up late watching people dance. My first concerts were Foreigner and The Village People when I was 5, and it was so enticing and exciting.
Tell me about the genesis of Escuela Grind.
Jesse and I started Escuela with our original guitarist back when we lived in Ithaca NY. It is a small college town and there were very few heavy bands. We had a more fastcore and powerviolence sound back then. But we started playing a lot of shows early on, in as many places as we could. Back then Jesse and I also were in school, so one day when I started screaming “escuela” over a d-beat, the word stuck and became our name.
How long did it take you to write and record Memory Theater?
The process of Memory Theater was a long one. We started writing the first songs before the pandemic hit when we were about to release our first self-recorded album. Then when we were forced to lockdown, we all lived together and spent our months writing, demoing, editing, and rerecording. We wrote these songs with the vision of how people would move to them when we were able to play shows again. There was an emphasis on peaks and valleys in the dynamics of the songs. We recorded the album with Kurt Ballou in August of 2021 and it was picked up by our label MNRK Heavy while we were constantly touring during 2022. The final release date was September 30, 2022. So overall it was over 2 years in the making!
If you could insert yourself into any one band what band would it be and why?
Yo, I’d kill to be in any formation of The Revolution, Prince’s band. Although I’m non-binary it’s important to me that Prince preferred working with women musicians, and they all had style and substance together. Peak musicianship and iconic music
Have you ever heard a song and immediately wished you had written it? If so… What was the song and artist?
I always feel this way about music, haha. Being mostly a vocalist, I think it would be a challenge to write songs that don’t have any vocals or something non-human. That’s probably why the first album that came to mind was Discovery by Daft Punk. It’s such a great album top to bottom and I wish I wrote all those songs. Simple, effective, and catchy with enough nuance to keep me listening for all these years.
Do you have any non-metal musical inspirations?
Tons of non-metal inspirations. Too much to write about but, I am a huge fan of RnB, House and Disco music. So I think people would be most surprised to find that Escuela Grind has this influence in my vocal patterns.
What band have you played with that has really impressed you with their live show?
Do you have a favorite venue to play at?
Patronaat in Haarlem Netherlands was my favorite venue we have ever played at. The venue itself sounds amazing, has all the amenities, and was laid out intuitively. The staff was so kind and accommodating. They really went above and beyond to make our show special and we are so grateful.
Do you have a pre-show ritual?
I stretch and do vocal warmups, usually behind the merch table, before we are on stage. I used to have to calm my stage fright down a lot, so I would go to the bathroom and talk to myself in the mirror. Assured myself I was good enough/ cool enough and that the show was going to go well. While I don’t have to do that anymore, I still get very nervous so it’s helpful to have a way to hype myself up.
What is your favorite thing about touring?
Is there a city that you love to hit while on tour?
We have a great love and admiration for the small cities because often they have the most enthusiastic and exciting crowds. Missoula Montana and El Paso Texas stick out in this way. On our last US tour, we performed basically outside at a garage in Missoula in 18 degree fahrenheit weather. There was snowy slush on the ground and it was absolutely freezing, but kids still danced and packed the place out. It was insane, and so fun to experience.
What’s the weirdest experience you’ve had on the road?
Maybe this is not necessarily the “weirdest” but it is certainly the most uncanny experience. On our last tour we played a record store in Wyoming. That night Krissy, Jesse, and I each bought one thing. Jesse bought this stone pyramid thing that we were all saying how it was magic and we were gonna manifest something with it. Krissy bought a Dropdead record, and I bought this cool little Napalm Death toy. That night we got an email asking us to join on this month long European tour with Napalm Death and Dropdead… it was really cool and bizarre we were definitely freaking out in the van.
What advice would you give young musicians that are just starting out in the music business?
Hit the ground running and don’t let anyone tell you something is “cringe” or you can’t do something. Make it happen for yourself. Book shows, tour in your small car, borrow gear, learn how to record yourself, work the extra hours… These are all valuable skills that you can use in the future for any band you have, and it is very rewarding to be in control of your own progress like that. I know it’s all easier said than done, but if you really want it you can make it happen for yourself. When we first started Escuela Grind we did all the things I just mentioned while having 2-3 jobs to pay for the expenses. We believed in ourselves and the vision and have no regrets now because of the work we put in.
You’re driving cross-country and you can only listen to one album the whole time. What album will it be?
Parlamentarisk Sodomi’s “Der Anarkistiske An(n)aler”… I used to have this as like the only CD in my car for a whole year and it never gets old. I listen to it all the way through at least once every tour. I love screaming along with this album and air-drumming like crazy on it.
You are writing a book about your life thus far. What is the title of that book?
Short and Loud.
Massive thanks to Katerina for taking the time to answer my questions and for using “Yo” in this interview. I appreciate you. If sonic savagery is your cup of tea, then I strongly recommend you press play on Escuela Grind’s latest album Memory Theater. Doing so will allow you to get your head kicked in in the privacy of your own home!
~El Pedo Caliente (aka Uncle Jameson host of the Fistful of DOOM show)
Ps- I’ve got their latest album on pink vinyl. Just sayin…
https://escuelagrind.bandcamp.com/album/memory-theater