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

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.

ANGELSPIT
'Hello My Name Is'
METROPOLIS

Australia's Cyber Punk / Electro Industrialists Angelspit come back with their fourth synthetic production and call it 'Hello My Name Is', this is an album full of raving, techno-breakdowns and sensational beats, taking the definition of cybergoth to a new level and inducing a coma of megawatt level. 'Hello My Name Is' brings the best of underground rave and excites it by installing a better hard drive for cutting edge electronic music. For the Australian duo, this is perhaps their best album of their career and as of yet is sure to make appearances across alternative clubs across the globe. The album 'Hello My Name Is' will appeal to those fans of Ayria, Black Light Discipline and Despair.

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

_ MIDGAR
'Lead Your Children To The Sky'
ROCKET TOWN

English Progressive Alternative Rockers Midgar unleashed their mini-debut album in 2010 to rapturous reviews, none the less this is a great debut in the sound of Tokio Hotel-cross-Maroon 5 style music. The London quartet set themselves on the path of devising a spectacular return and with this release under their belt, their next effort will almost be certainly an enjoyable one, with a charged-atmosphere of calmness and soul-soothing tunes to engulf the listener with, 'Lead Your Children To The Sky' will not shy away from being dubbed 'prog rock revitalised and rejuvenated'.

[7] RHYS STEVENSON

THE KARMA HEART
'Throw Your Light'

Combining the delightful influences of Paramore and Foo Fighters is the North Eastern rock band The Karma Heart who on their debut album 'Throw Your Light' do not fail to impress, with a beautiful level of singing to provide the intricate background music with an electric personality, this is one record that is sure to get them noticed. In rock terms, they are more punk than pop, but have pop elements here and there, but are not emo unlike Paramore. It is to be said that this release is one for those parties and can surely ignite a night in pure glory, so whilst its time to 'Throw Your Light', The Karma Heart are what the English rock scene has been missing.

[8] RHYS STEVENSON

THE CONFLITTO
'Dusk Over The Nations'
WORMHOLE DEATH

The debut album for Italian Post-Hardcore / Screamo quartet The Conflitto is such a heavy and brutal one, sounding similar to that of Rise Against colliding with Screamo act These Hearts, the boys from La Spezia give it all full throttle with the music and vocals, prepare to be shredded apart by the sheer force exuberated on 'Dusk Over The Nations', volaitile vocals backed by some of most nasty drumming and outrageous riffs from the Italian music scene. 'Dusk Over The Nations' is for those fans of Enter Shikari, Rise Against and These Hearts, The Conflitto could prove dangerous sometime soon.

[7] RHYS STEVENSON

ESKIMADA
'Eskimada'

Eskimada released their self-titled album 'Eskimada' last year in 2011, the Italian Alternative Metal / Rock quintet deliver solid music but the vocals are a little to be desired, in fact it ruins the album in its entirety. Whilst they sing in English, they do not achieve captivation in most areas and thus leave the listener questioning what they are playing. This is nothing like Evanescence nor like System of a Down, in fact its hardly really anything, just plain music. The fact comparisons are hard to draw up says it all, but for those who like obscure music, 'Eskimada' is one for you.

[5.5] RHYS STEVENSON

CONCISE / FLAQUE
'ingénue'
WYCOMBE MUSIC

Austrian electropop connoisseurs Concise duel up with German Intelligent Dance Music project Flaque to carve a hole in the night for some truly electronic beats, enough to pulsate through every human muscle to crave the ability to dance in its entirety, so whilst Concise delivers the soft and slow dance music, Flaque implements a ambient touch to the music, whipping away the fusion of dance and electronic music and replacing it with a far more difficult beat to conquer, but whilst the dual release is electronically apt, it holds a soul-soothing ability, an essential CD for any electronic music fan.

[7.5] + [7] RHYS STEVENSON

GRINSPOON
'Six To Midnight'
UNIVERSAL MUSIC

Veteran Aussie Post-Grungers Grinspoon saw their sixth album 'Six To Midnight' take flight in 2009, whilst the genre Post-Grunge is a little on the wane, Grinspoon do their best to keep it in check, with some real get-up-and-go tracks and a vision of making even the most despairing days all the better, so it's better to be 'Six To Midnight' than lost the six minutes lost for every album the band released, with a diamond load of riffs and funky drumming, this is Guns N Roses in their afterlife.

[7.5] RHYS STEVENSON

NEW YORK DOLLS
'Dancing Backward In High Heels'
429 RECORDS

Masters of American Hard Rock, New York Dolls return with their fifth album 'Dancing Backward In High Heels' over their forty year career (though in 1976 split-up, only to reform in 2004), chock full of classic tunes and the real prosperity of old-age cliché’s being implemented, this release has a special charm to it, one that will tease and excite anyone's ears, sounding similar to Van Halen and Aerosmith, this is classic rock at it's finest, a real diamond in Rock music history, one that will live forever in existence.

[7] RHYS STEVENSON

THESE HEARTS
'Forever Ended Yesterday'
VICTORY RECORDS

Screamo / Popcore American mob These Hearts unleash havoc with their debut album 'Forever Ended Yesterday', with more screaming than Metalcore bands this is the hard s***. Whilst sounding pop-like in the vein of Paramore and screamo like nothing before, the quintet from North Dakota combine soft with hard to create a dynamic product of pure party and audio-pain-laden tracks, this is sure to be one of those albums that would appear at any festival like Leeds or Reading, these guys aren't your average screamo emo guys.

[8] RHYS STEVENSON