STILL BUST
'77 For You (57 For Me)'
MATT

Smothered with enough rotten guts to make any slaughter house smell like a florists, Still Bust call the shots with their new EP '77 For You (57 For Me)'. This 'tight-as-a-nun's...' unit have constructed a release that is set to assimilate anyone who cannot hardcore dance straight if either tipsy on WKD or wasted on beer; yes you can dance drunk, it's just not cool, but what is cool is the astounding and captivating sound these four chaps have lashed together. If you're looking for no nonsense lyrics, skull-cracking drums, outrageous vocals and skin-ripping riffs, then look no further as Still Bust promise to deliver that with their new EP, just remember to sign the will. For they will leave you limbless and lifeless, begging for mercy.

Pre-order the release here

For Fans of: Gallows, Agnostic Front, Dead Kennedys

"77 For You (57 For Me)" is out 8th September via Matt Records

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

DIE KAMMER
'Season I: The Seeming & The Real'
DELICIOUS

Die Kammer are a rather eclectic mix of musicians, weaving together a sound that pinches elements from Gothic Rock, Classical, Cabaret and Chamber Music, as well as bits of Folk Music, they are a tough band to categorize in one genre. Evidently their premier album 'Season I: The Seeming & The Real' broods in the deepness of the guttural German vocals that give such depth and atmosphere, resulting in the instant connection with the early Gothic Rock bands such as Bauhaus. But what also makes 'Season I: The Seeming & The Real' a breath of fresh air, is the unique chemistry flowing free between the plethora of instruments residing in this musical adventure. To be quite frank, this album could easily be the perfect accompaniment to the Christmas celebrations or as a delightful listen at any folk or alternative music festival. Wherever and whenever you listen to it, you can be assured that Die Kammer are a highly promising group, let's see if they can continue this sound on their forthcoming release 'Season II: Views From The Inside' released next year.

Download This: "Labyrinths Of Despair"

For Fans of: Bauhaus, Drachenflug, Schandmaul

[8.5] RHYS STEVENSON

SCREAMING EYES
'For Whom The Sins Are Over'
THIS IS CORE

Unleash the Italian stallion known as Screaming Eyes and be prepared to have your head blown off, this five-piece Hardcore mob unleash hell on their latest EP 'For Whom The Sins Are Over'. Soldering together the sheer velocity experienced in the original Hardcore sound with a modern sound of Metallic Hardcore, this ten-legged army whip out a sound that will make Italy shake on it's very foundations. As if the leaning tower of pisa is actually leaning, but if you add the sound of Screaming Eyes, it will be the fallen tower of pisa. Whilst the Hardcore contemporaries tend to originate from either the US, Australia or the UK, it is now the turn of the Italians to crack skulls open with such force that it will make your life not worth living, because 'For Whom The Sins Are Over', the virtues of Screaming Eyes are already in motion... watch this band with interest.

Download This: "In The Name Of The Father"

For Fans of: Alexisonfire, Hatebreed, Rise To Remain, Imminence

[9] RHYS STEVENSON

STITCHED UP HEART
'Grave'

Possibly one band to watch in 2014, Californian sex-bombs Stitched Up Heart recently unleashed their highly infectious single 'Grave' and with it comes that classic alternative rock beat, aggressive vocals and very bouncy riffs, but this is no Paramore-gone-hardcore, by any means no. The single 'Grave' takes elements from the alternative rock, Gothic / emo subculture and add that unique sparkle to it to make it a single anyone should have on their music player. With that emphatic extreme range of vocal levels, tied in with a sound that speaks bags of imagination, 'Grave' is the song that will push this highly promising rock band across the Atlantic. It is so good, you would need to replay it over again and again just to conquer your thirst for more, now all that's needed is a house party as 'Grave' provides the perfect soundtrack.

Download 'Grave' here: http://www.reverbnation.com/stitchedupheart

For Fans of: The Birthday Massacre, Evarose, Die So Fluid, 'hormonally-charged rock'

[9] RHYS STEVENSON

NEVERSTAR
'Ill Be Waiting'
SMASH DOWN RECORDS

If you want the softer and more symphonic-eloquent form of Evanescence, then Hertfordshire crew Neverstar is for you, upon listening to their latest offering 'Ill Be Waiting' you can be sure to be welcomed by really sharp female vocals that will shatter your hearing so hard it will leave you gasping for more. Furthermore through the ingenious and deep emotional feeling coursing through the guitars and drums, the music created is one of elegance and beauty, now if Neverstar were to develop any soundtrack to any film then their song "Not Over Yet" would befit some of the scenes in The Lord Of The Rings trilogy, it is that dramatic and unique and yet this could be the start of something remarkably sensational, released in 2013 and rocking out 2014, Neverstar's 'Ill Be Waiting' is a sound to remember and the band is one to watch with interest this year.

Download This: "Not Over Yet"

For Fans of: Evanescence, Within Temptation, Avantasia, Vanilla Ninja

[8.5] RHYS STEVENSON

CLEAR THE AUDITORIUM
'The Final Broadcast'

As if the cold war wasn't scary enough, here comes the Wales Post-Hardcore / Electronicore outfit Clear The Auditorium with their forthcoming EP 'The Final Broadcast', which they have set out to send reminders of how cold, dystopian and dark the post-WW2 times were. They have carried on their theme of a futuristic world that is full of uncertainty, promise and almost an Orwellian perception of what is happening and what could happen, even with their 'intermission' track delivering that totalitarian music experienced in the film 'V For Vendetta'. Sitting right at the core of 'The Final Broadcast' is the use of electronic music, moreover the use of morse code to introduce 'We Are The Danger' really sends out a sonic punch that is guaranteed to shake the Welsh valleys free of any exposed boulders, whilst amalgamating around the edges are crunchy riffs, funky grooves, emphatic vocals and sensational drumming sequences, all of which sum up to signal Clear The Auditorium as a GMA band to watch.

For Fans of: Linkin Park, Enter Shikari, The Progidy, Muse

'The Final Broadcast' is out 8th May 2014

[8.5] RHYS STEVENSON

DEATHSTARS
'The Perfect Cult'
NUCLEAR BLAST

It's been five years since Deathstars, the Swedish masters of sexual "Dark Rock", released their well-received glam-tinged "Night Electric Night". Now the quartet is back (minus Cat Casino) and harder than ever. 'The Perfect Cult' glimmers with that extra special sound the band has mustered over their career, that sound that makes them who they are. With infectious Electro-Industrial keyboard elements forming the foundation for a monstrous assault of tripwire riffs, ballistic drums and Whiplasher's unrelentless and unforgettable vocals, Deathstars have shifted into fifth gear for what is poised to be the best album of their career. Adopting a dystopian and Orwellian attitude that is tinged with the darkness of their Gothic posterior and blackened hearts, it is clear that Deathstars are back in black and mean business... the kings of Swedish Dark Rock are here to stay.

Download This: "Bodies"

For Fans of: Motionless In White, The Birthday Massacre, Gothminister, The Kovenant

"The Perfect Cult" is out in June via Nuclear Blast: 13th (EU), 16th (UK) and 24th (USA)

[9] RHYS STEVENSON

INDIGO DARKPSYCH
'All That Remains'

Malta may not the be the first country to spring to mind when thinking of Alternative or Nu Metal bands, but quartet Indigo Darkpsych are sure to make their nation known on the music map. Their 2013 effort wallows in the darkened waters of Evanescence and Lahannya, is charged up with both Slipknot's and Korn's charm and is lead by vocals that Amy Lee would drool over all night. It's rare to find a female leading a Nu Metal style band, bands like Exilia and Infected Rain spring to mind, but as for this treasure, 'All That Remains' is the future sound of Alternative Nu Metal, loaded with infectious grooves, sensual vocals, catchy riffs and an atmosphere that is just as good as Slipknot's Download appearance. R.I.P. Paul Gray.

Download This: "Shining Inside"

For Fans of: Exilia, Slipknot, Evanescence, Korn

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

SAKARA
'Blood & Stone'
RAVENHEART

Well this certainly is an interesting project, coming direct from Herefordshire is the artist Sakara aka Laura Sakara Marshal. This definitely sits within the Avant Garde music 

BLUE MOVIE
'Delusions In Technicolor' + '8mm Lovesongs'

So what happens when Duran Duran meets Nine Inch Nails, simple you get Blue Movie. First off their 2012 release 'Delusions In Technicolor' takes the rock sound of first said rock band and the electronic and industrial influences of NIN and lashes them together. What you get on 'Delusions In Technicolor' is how Alternative Metal should really be, taking in that darker and more Gothic sense of rock music and adding the synthesizers in the background to give that chilled feeling. 'Delusions In Technicolor' is definitely bringing back the best of industrial / alternative metal to modern times, with vocals that Trent Reznor would be impressed and music that can be likened to the likes of Depeche Mode and Duran Duran, 'Delusions In Technicolor' is an album that ought to be out on the radio waves in in major stores, it is that good. But what about their first release '8mm Lovesongs'?

Well in an ideal sense, '8mm Lovesongs' is a little more industrial than later works, even so it does not reach the same level that 'Delusions In Technicolor' does. '8mm Lovesongs' brings out a more Gothic feel to it as well, for a debut release it certainly ticks all the boxes, it's powerful and it's different. Again it is not on the same par as later releases but it does pack a strong sound to it, a sound that broods in the past of early Disturbed and early NIN, but to have the two sounds crossing as they do without a total faux pas happening is just magical, there is not much to say about this release overall in that it does leave a lasting impression.

Download These: "A Nuclear Calm" + "Murder Will Out"

For Fans of: Nine Inch Nails, HIM, Duran Duran, The Rasmus

[8.5] + [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON

KILL HER FIRST
'Anatomy 101'

German Screamo rockers Kill Her First are the real deal, in fact their latest release 'Anatomy 101' saw daylight in 2010, Ok so that maybe some time ago but the album is still as fresh as preserved yoghurt. Mixing the attitude of punk rock with the fist-clenching power of Screamo and the embodiment of metal, this is crude attitude on legs. Whilst the musical concept may not be new, the sound this five-piece delivers is phenomenal. With a selection of songs on 'Anatomy 101' that spans across a plethora of different rock and metal styles, there is something for everyone to indulge into. Consider them a gem of the German rock scene because they truly add something remarkable to it. 'Anatomy 101' is guaranteed to appeal to a wide range of listeners.

Download This: "No More Games"

For Fans of: Alesana, early-Black Veil Brides, Anomie

[7.5] RHYS STEVENSON

DALAPLAN
'Dalaplan'
GAPHALS

To the non-Swedish speakers this release could be very interesting to listen to, whilst on the other hand those learning to speak Swedish ought to buy this album to improve their speaking and listening skills. 'Dalaplan' the self-titled album by the same band is a mixture of punk and Synth rock and is served up well in a unique way, perfect to play at any house party although make sure the furnishings are all from Ikea to get that entire Swedish feeling. Although some songs tend to have a rock 'n' roll feel to them, don't get put off by that as the entire album has something for everyone, whether you speak the lingo or not 'Dalaplan' is an album that is sure to get the band some well earned attention across Europe and the world. Dalaplan are poised to step into the Swedish rock 'n' roll hall of fame in the near future.

Download This: "Redan Död"

For Fans of: Paramore, ABBA, Elvis Presley, Ladytron

'Dalaplan' is out 18th September 2013 via Gaphals in the CD, LP and digital formats.

[8.5] RHYS STEVENSON

KILLAFLAW
'Broken Idol'
WALL OF SOUND

Not being funny but Killaflaw's upcoming EP 'Broken Idol' should have been a Summer release as it packs some serious bass-line that would get even the most raving listeners of BBC Radio 1 onto the dance-floor and break-dancing, whilst at the same time the rock fans will be playing air guitar to the unmistakable Led Zeppelin influences flowing in and out of the waves of techno genius. 'Broken Idol' defines the new sound of rock 'n' rave and perhaps could spark off a whole new wave of bands adhering to this phenomenal sound. Liverpool's Killaflaw have certainly upped the game up with this new EP and evidently have proven that the musical boundaries can be taken beyond the limits. Latching together songs that wallow in the heavier side of bass and the slower side to rock 'n' roll, Killaflaw's 'Broken Idol' may well be their key to scoring appearances at Download next year... 'Broken Idol' simply leaves you gasping for more and leaves you totally speechless. Now PUMP UP THE NOIZE LADS!

For Fans of: The Prodigy, Led Zeppelin, The Chemical Brothers

'Broken Idol' is out 4th November 2013 via Wall of Sound Records

[10] RHYS STEVENSON

BLEAK FALLS
'The Grass Gets No Greener'

The artwork might be gruesome but that just sums up the vileness of Bleak Falls' upcoming EP 'The Grass Gets No Greener', make no mistake about it this Sussex balaclava lot will hurt your hearing with their highly propulsive and energetic concoction of Melodic Hardcore and merciless Alternative Metal, furthermore if you were to take a pinch of salt from the seaside resort of Worthing and sprinkle it over this tight musical unit, you have something that will almost certainly cause heads to turn in the coming year or so. 'The Grass Gets No Greener' implies that their music is wedged in the atmosphere of perhaps Doom Metal and having a rather emotional state, thus taking the warmth out of the listener before injecting the sound of Bleak Falls becoming a nationally recognized band, the storm has just begun...

For Fans of: Cancer Bats, Terror, Deftones

'The Grass Gets No Greener' is out 18th November through all digital stores.

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

VULGARRITY
'Funkeology'
DOG HILL

The concept of having relatives in a project or band is not new, look at The Jackson 5, the BeeGees, etc, but to have a brother and sister in one project is not usually heard of. However what Shawn and Tracy Garrity do here is a similar concept to that of Australian industrialists Angelspit, two minds, two forces, two sounds molded into one. Their third album 'Funkeology' released early January this year shines brightly with the dual two-tone coming from both the rock and industrial backgrounds, think Led Zeppelin meeting Fear Factory, you get the picture. 'Funkeology' is taking alternative rock to newer heights and making it a far more adventurous, with the sound of a thousand cyber-beats pummeling away at any one time with the riffs and drums riding solo like two hells angels riding their Harley-Davidsons along to this phenomenal sound all the way down Route 66.

Download This: "Middle Finger Machine Gun"

For Fans of: Led Zeppelin, Rage Against The Machine, Fear Factory, Alice In Chains

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

UNDER HEAVEN
'Nocturnes For The Divine & The Damned'
RAVENHEART

Once again the Canadian duet between Matthew Binks and Tammy Everett comes clashing together in a magical explosion of drama, music and elegance. Embracing the darkess with their second album 'Nocturnes For The Divine & The Damned', Under Heaven summon their sensational sound once again and delinquently deliver a performance reminiscent of many scenes in the Phantom of the Opera film. Wielding together the beauty of classical with the solidarity of metal, topping it with a dusting of new age and sprinkling industrial beats into the background, this album is a must have for any music fan. Crafted ideally to lay down and fall asleep to or ultimately drive home to after a rough and tough day at work or the gym, 'Nocturnes For The Divine & The Damned' by Under Heaven is the sound of the upcoming Autumn and Winter, when the fires are lit and the cold shut out, embrace the warmth of Tammy's vocals and the calmness of Matthew's composing as time slowly ticks by.

Download This: "The Ghost I Am"

For Fans of: Evanescence, The Military Wives Choir, Epica, Therion.

[9] RHYS STEVENSON

MORDIGANS
'El Sabor De Una Taza De Te'

Andorra is not really internationally known for their rock or metal music, except perhaps more recently for the metal band Persefone. So what about rock? Enter Catalan-singing quartet Mordigans with their mix of rock 'n' roll and Hard Rock, now you can jive to this music or you can place yourself at the heart of American rock 'n' roll in the 1960's, especially with the song 'I Love My Ways' sounding similar to that of Elvis Presley's 'Hound Dog'. It certainly is not the accent, but what makes this band all the unique is that they deliver a sound that is sure to get any classic rock fans bone tickled. 'El Sabor De Una Taza De Te' is the latest album by Mordigans and it goes without hitch saying that this release will be loved by those of the Spanish-speaking communities. However if they were to enter the Eurovision, their chances of success are relatively good, they are that good. 'El Sabor De Una Taza De Te' is a sensational release that will get Andorra dancing.

Download This: "Matador"

For Fans of: AC/DC, Elvis Presley, Queen, Radio Futura

[9] RHYS STEVENSON

CHASING SKINS
'Chasing Skins'

Romanian Alternative / Electro Rockers Chasing Skins make their first move by dropping their debut self-titled album loaded with a sound that speaks a thousand volumes, just thinking about how Gothic Transylvania is and how this band can easily have the soundtrack to a modern version of Dracula, perhaps a Tim Burton adaptation? But regarding the album 'Chasing Skins', it glistens with the elements of synth riding on the classic sounds of rock music and whilst the vocals seem to do the commandments on this album, the music itself delightfully follows in behind to create an album that whilst is unique, it lacks that final panache in respect to the almost Industrial sound it tends to drag in. None the less it is a decent enough album that ought to garner some attention across the European continent.

Download This: "Use Me"

For Fans of: The Human League, The Rasmus, H.I.M.

[7.5] RHYS STEVENSON

ERILAZ
'Black God Of The Hunt'
DANSE MACABRE

What with the Gothic traits bleeding out of the heart of the Finnish alternative music scene, it was only a matter of time before the latest installment in the EBM / Industrial style was instated, entering the 4th dimension is Erilaz with their sensational debut album 'Black God Of The Hunt', poised as a sonorous mix of Nine Inch Nails, Das Ich and the rudimentary classic elements of Beethoven wafting around the background, 'Black God Of The Hunt' was always going to be an album that spits fire, seeps ice cold atmospherics and radiates musical nuclear fall out. From start to finish, Erilaz conduct the elements so well that they form a sound that shall captivate a whole new audience. Elaborately binding a plethora of electronic music styles to the hard-hitting force of Metal music, 'Black God Of The Hunt' is definitely the sound of the forthcoming Winter, the inevitable cold and bitter darkness beckons...

Download This: "Kuolema Sinut Tänä Syksynä Korjaa"

For Fans of: KMFDM, Das Ich, Frontline Assembly, 'Suomi IDM'

[8.5] RHYS STEVENSON

BRIGHT YOUNG PEOPLE
'Liberties + Woe'

It's always a pleasure to recognize unique talent when it comes around, this time the spotlight shines on North Western rock scamps Bright Young People, whose upcoming single 'Liberties + Woe' glimmers with the old style Nirvana teen spirit and a wallowing between heavy pop rock and indie rock, whatever you want to call it this trio are sure to become a favorite amongst the Brit rock sphere, 'Liberties + Woe' carries a whole armada of catchy riffs, hooks, vocals and drum beats that would make 1960's, 70's rock come back to life once again. With two tracks that sit on opposite fence posts in the whole soft rock style, the upcoming single will almost certainly get these lads some well earned attention. Subtle hints of The Clash and Muse seem to drift in and out of the shadows on the premier track 'Liberties', but it is down to the listener to catch on to where those hints are.

For Fans of: Iggy Pop, Nirvana, Muse

'Liberties + Woe' is out 28th October via Evil People

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

FAILURE TO FOLLOW
'Walk Away'
ITG

Sometimes it's best to get back to the basics, other times it's best to not do anything at all, but what Bristol's Failure To Follow is done a bit of both. Their latest release 'Walk Away' spews everything out you would want from a Hardcore release but the downside is, this sound has been done before; there is no imminent difference until you listen to the release three or four more times again. Give due it is a well crafted release and is sure to give the band the credible attention they deserve, their chunky bass lines, no remorse vocals and chainsaw riffs serve well as a springboard for them to move towards greater things, but the main point is that in order to do that, they will need to change their blueprints and develop a new strategy.

Download This: "Dogs Of Hell"

[6.5] RHYS STEVENSON

HEARTLESS
'Certain Death'
HALO OF FLIES / ALERTA ANTIFASCISTA

Did you think you could walk away quietly? No chance, Heartless will not allow it. Excreting their next lot of pungent Hardcore Punk anthems in the form of 'Certain Death', the Pennsylvanian quartet take no prisoners as they unleash a mauling through eight solid tracks that leave compromises in the backyard rotting away. Primed for mosh-pit and your average hardcore dance, 'Certain Death' is one of those releases designed to piss anyone off, whether you're into classical music or unruly relenting noise, Heartless have done justice upon the plethora of want to be 'core' bands, this is the real deal, this is the faithful, this is Heartless and with 'Certain Death' on the horizon, you wouldn't want to hear the words 'I like trains' mind you.

Download This: "Mute"

[7.5] RHYS STEVENSON

BREE
'Bree'
WEREWOLF TUNES

There aren't many artists around that take influence from the early forms of rock 'n' roll, enter trio Bree who are fronted by, guess who? Bree. The three rockers from the downtown streets of Oregon deliver an outburst of classic rock that simmers brightly under the scorching summer sun, simply put this is a band that with their debut self-titled album are sure to garner attention across the oceans. 'Bree' is crafted by the brainchild Bree and signals evident influences from Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley, The Who, Slade and bands / artists from similar sounds, to give you an idea 'You Can't Take The Heart Out Of Me' has a beat that is the spitting image of 'whatever you want' by Status Quo. None the less the debut album is sure to appeal to rock fans alike.

'Bree' is out 18th June 2013 via Werewolf Tunes

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

FEARLESS VAMPIRE KILLERS
'Exposition - The Five Before The Flames'

Making their welcomed return is Suffolk's own Van Helsing clan, the Fearless Vampire Killers, the all  round rockers have unleashed another sensational belter in the form of their mini-album 'Exposition - The Five Before The Flames', five tracks of erotic and theatrical rock music that could serve well as a time piece, oozing chunky riffs and bass-lines that kick into touch the rest of the music to such a level that the term 'party music' may as well be an understatement when complementing this release. There is a clear shift in sound from their debut album 'Militia Of The Lost', moving from a soft rock style to a more sharper impression, as if they re-wielded the stake and glossed it with gold. But, 'Exposition - The Five Before The Flames' dips into many streams of rock that it can be compared to the likes of Mindless Self Indulgence and Ashestoangels and NOT like My Chemical Romance, like some seem to compare FVK to.

Download This: "The Thief - Merchants Of Decay'

[8.5] RHYS STEVENSON

SOMEONE SAID FIRE
'Dead Wasp'

Inspiration and originality are the two fundamental parts to making a release successful, ignore any of those and consider your work a dead duck. Sad to say Someone Said Fire are on that very borderline, sure their 2 track demo 'Dead Wasp' cooks up some grizzly and gruel Melodic Hardcore / Post-Hardcore, but the blandness in the screaming vocals on the song 'Dead Wasp' are enough to make anyone contemplate weeping. Ironically they improve on the song 'One Night Darker', but even then the percussion kicks up the dust in the wrong direction and in the end what you have is an demo that ok is exceptionable as a first time out but if they carry on this onto the next release, well who knows, it could be the worst move ever.

[5] RHYS STEVENSON

TAZER
'All My Days'

The Midlands is a power house for bands throughout history and well Nottingham's Tazer is no exception, delivering an eccentric style to the classic rock sound that for this band resonates in the 80's style of rock, for example Aerosmith's 'sweet emotion' has stark similarities with the band's song 'Buggin' Me'. So what you get is four tracks from their EP 'All My Days' that is certified to appeal to those fans of classic rock and music with a party, rockabilly feel to it. It is bands like Tazer that keep the old traditions alive in a modern world dominated by musical trend and so what their EP offers is that feeling of driving down route 66 to the sound of Tazer, which quite frankly is a sweet emotion.

Download This: "Centrefold"

[8.5] RHYS STEVENSON

ENKELINATION
'Enkelination'

Fresh out of the shadowy London streets is quintet Enkelination of whom last year dropped their debut EP 'Enkelination' from which explodes in the sounds of Melodic Metal. Sounding along the lines of bands like Aonia and Gone Til Winter, this female-fronted ensemble show off their unique style of heavenly angelic vocals and subtly done hard rock / heavy metal music. Whilst producing this elaborate sound, the unique thing about this band is that they drag in a dark and Gothic atmosphere that resonates in comparison with Within Temptation, except the former is a more operatic style. No question about it with this under their belt, Enkelination are sure to take the nation by storm in 2013. Watch and hear as the next most exciting London band takes the rest of the UK down with their operatic melodic metal.

Download This: "Never Ending"

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

SEVENTH SEEKER
'Angels Temptation'

Hailing from the South coast of England is Seventh Seeker, a five-piece melodic hard rock / metal ensemble that has enough energy to unleash a powerful release, that release being their demo 'Angels Temptation', a more advanced version of the now defunct Tainted Grace and yet as the female-fronted group conjure up some rather banging rock tunes, the core of this luscious sound is the rocked up Evanescence sound that drags the release itself to a level never before explored. Angelic vocals shine the light over the quirky riffs and solos that bind the solidarity of this five-piece unit together. 'Angels Temptation' is another modern example of how rock music is continuously  renewing itself, whilst at the same time provides a glimmer of hope that Seventh Seeker are going to become a nationwide favorite.

Download This: 'Sunburnt'

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

KRAD
'Behind The Laws'

Usually in the Atlantic Ocean, there are volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, hurricanes and other geographical or meteorological events, but on this occasion arising from the Portuguese-speaking nation of Cape Verde is a fresh faced rock / grunge act called Krad. 'Behind The Laws' comes as the band's new single from which will be also on their upcoming as-of-yet-untitled EP. Featuring a raw and fuzzy guitar sound that rips through the senses like a cheetah chasing antelope, blasting the mind apart with high voltage rock and setting a atmosphere up that constitutes a sound of hard and heavy grit as well as a style of music that will make people wet themselves. 'Behind The Laws' is a sure sign that this band are promising a good EP to come and as a result are flying the flag for the Cape Verde rock and metal scene.

[7.5] RHYS STEVENSON

EVILYN
'The End'

South London is now being graced by one promising band known as Evilyn, these four lads take influences from a range of different bands such as Muse, 30STM, A7X and AFI, whilst threading together their own unique sound package as found on their double A side 'The End', interestingly enough this music could also be taking influence from bands like Bauhaus and the whole goth, punk and new wave styles, so the music itself has a whole range of different times flowing through it, but the release is sure to capture much attention as a starting point for this band to build achievements on, sure the second song has some comparisons to steampunkers Fearless Vampire Killers, but Evilyn are a different kettle of fish and it's that obvious fact that makes them a one to watch in 2013.

Download the double A-side here: http://evilyn.bandcamp.com/album/the-end

[9] RHYS STEVENSON

BLACK MARKET SEROTONIN
'Something From Nothing'
SUPERSTAR DESTROYER

At first it seems that 'Something From Nothing' the debut album by Manchester's Black Market Serotonin is a redeveloped 80's synth rock megalithic release, but closer inspection reveals elements from David Bowie and the modern sounds of Deftones, Porcupine Tree and Muse, evidently drawn from their collaborative mix of progressive rock and synth elements and also how the trio manage to keep their unique sound going without deviating to established sounds. 'Something From Nothing' is an album that oozes delicious riffs, sensational drumming and emotional vocals, all of which when brought together deliver a sound that will echo throughout 2013 as the band set their eyes on exploding all over the British rock scene.

Download This: "The End of History"

'Something From Nothing' is out Monday 29th April 2013 via Superstar Destroyer Records

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

AYS
'Suburban Haze'
LET IT BURN

On the dawn of their 10th anniversary, Germany's self-confessed Hardcore Punk addicts AYS unleash hell with their upcoming new EP 'Suburban Haze', oozing vocals that are guaranteed to make you sick in the stomach as well as killer riffs and powerful drumming. However that's just the basics of it, the intricate composure and face-smacking sensation that comes as a result by the all-out assault by this five-man machine, AYS are gearing themselves up to slaughter Europe with their killer sounds, just make sure health and safety are on sight as there may be a moshpit within a moshpit. 'Suburban Haze' should also come with a health warning that serious headbanging may also be induced, the next step from these Germans will be an interesting one.

Download This: "Orphans"

'Suburban Haze' is out 8th March 2013 via Let It Burn Records

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

KING & COUNTRY
'Mountains'
Self-Released

"Snowdonia is set to experience a new style of earthquake"

The amazing thing about the Welsh rock and metal music scenes is that it seems to be always the southern regions that produce said music, a modern example comes in the form of King & Country of whom comprise of four laddies hailing from Bridgend and the musical talents derived from elements that come from the classic pop punk / post-hardcore style, namesake on par with Lower The Atlantis and newcomers Mallory Knox, but what sets aside 'Mountains' as a must have EP this year is that the four tracks extrude a variation of sound to cater for many tastes and with their evident display of punching the right musical notes, King & Country are sure to set the nation on fire with their sensational rock anthems.

Download This: "Soldiers"
For Fans of: The Blackout, Story of the Year, Lower Than Atlantis

"Mountains" is out 6th May 2013 via the band and online digital retailers

[9] RHYS STEVENSON

GET OFF MY SHOES
'Let's Not Rush Out And Tell The World'
THANKS BUT NO THANKS

Somewhat of a newcomer to the European front-line, or are they? Three years in and Belgium's hottest new Indie rockers come rolling into town to drop their highly-anticipated debut EP 'Let's Not Rush Out And Tell The World', it features a catalogue of songs whirling around the core of the release in all different directions, taking on board influences from bands like Bloc Party and Weezer, they are sure to make an impact in 2013 and perhaps may wind up on the covers of Kerrang! Magazine. 'Let's Not Rush Out And Tell The World' is the new sound of Indie Rock and it is a damn good starting point for this five-piece, so instead lets rush out and tell the world that Get Off My Shoes are now Belgium's hottest rock export.

Download This: "We're Going Down But We Don't Care"
For Fans of: Weezer, BlocParty, Foals, Two Door Cinema Club

'Let's Not Rush Out And Tell The World' is out Monday 1st April 2013 via Thanks But No Thanks Records

[8.5] RHYS STEVENSON

THE MARQUIS OF VAUDERVILLE
'The Great Promenade of Fools & Ghosts'

Steampunk is almost certainly on the up-rise as a recognized musical form of art, bands dress in Victorian style dress and play an eclectic music mix, Dallas' The Marquis of Vauderville is no exception, weaving together a luscious mix of progressive rock and psychedelic punk rock to deliver their nineteen-track opus 'The Great Promenade of Fools & Ghosts' of which spews out similarities to that of David Bowie (Ziggy Stardust), Pink Floyd and The Cure, consequently this is another album that most rock fans will adhere to, however for the Goths, Steampunks and passionate people of Victorian times, this is a memento of epic proportions.

Download This: "Bright Star Hope"
For Fan of: The Cure, David Bowie, Pink Floyd

[7.5] RHYS STEVENSON

LETS TALK DAGGERS
'Fantastic Contraption'
TANGLED TALK

Built and constructed to ignite riots simultaneously across the rock scene, Lets Talk Daggers may require anger management as they unleash their upcoming mini-album 'Fantastic Contraption', what emerges initially from this release is a mixture of brutal slaying drums that are sliced apart by the savage sounds of the riffs and vocals together. Some may dub them 'anarcho-punk', but in reality they are a gruesome mix of punk hardcore, screamo, alternative rock and fast music, faster than your last ejaculation, that said as the band pumps out more fluidity in their music, it gets to the point where The Dillinger Escape Plan and Fall of Troy come head on together and the result is grizzly, besides the release title may be an indirect Wallace & Gromit pun.

For Fans of: Fall of Troy, The Dillinger Escape Plan, Blakfish.

[7] RHYS STEVENSON

'Fantastic Contraption' is out via Tangled Talk Records on 25th March 2013

APHERIUM
'The Cycle'

What happens when a band forms and broods in a place that is hardly known for rock or metal bands? Total hegemonic chaos, arising from the knowledge that bands like Apherium know they are fighting to put their home town of Yeovil on the map, but when taking into account their debut album 'The Cycle' and the sound they aim to deliver, it can't be helped but notice that this could be a winning score. Pinching influences from mainly Post-Hardcore, Punk Rock and Thrash Metal, Apherium weave together a sound that may prove yet to be the one that will attract the major media outlets to sniff the scent left behind as 'The Cycle' cements itself in rock history, sure there is room for improvement, especially in the volume department, but apart from that the band sheds out some slick sick and savage sounds.

Download This: 'In The Light'

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

MILESTONE
'Medicate The Night'

On 13th May 2013, South Wales will experience an earthquake, no not another Metalcore band trying to be the next Bullet For My Valentine, but rather a new rock release. Milestone the four-piece rock 'n' roll boy-band are preparing to unleash their debut EP 'Medicate The Night' upon the masses, listeners can expect to hear classic rock sounds derived from the likes of the Foo Fighters that seem to sound out across the entire release, whilst the atmosphere that is set in motion covers the entire room with the feeling of getting down, dirty and drinking a bottle of Jack Daniels. After all, 'Medicate The Night' should cast new light on the region and for the band, shine a light to join the league of exciting British rock bands in the year 2013.

'Medicate The Night' will be out on Monday 13th May through all digital outlets.

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

THE HYPE THEORY
'Heartsick'
SMALL TOWN

Chelmsford Pop Punk / Power Pop maestros The Hype Theory have the honor of releasing their latest single 'Heartsick', continuing on their powerful ballad like sound manufactured over the years, this is a promising sign that their next album will be the apocalypse many alike will be waiting for. With angelic vocals that can only equate to the power experienced in a tornado outbreak, the music follows suit with fist-punching beats and slashing riffs that together added with the vocals, concoct to make The Hype Theory. 'Heartsick' shows the lighter side of the band also towards the end with the faint fading of an acoustic guitar that just adds another dimension to this sensational group.

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

'Heartsick' is out 22nd April via digital outlets

Fans can pre-order the single here: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/heartsick-single/id627696605?uo=4

The band's second album "Captives" is to be released 27th May and a free album release show will follow 3 days after.