RamRaid [Thrash/Liverpool]

Liverpools Thrash scene is a slowly growing one, much like the rest of the countries, following on from its influx in popularity in the late 2000's. And following the unfortunate split of Bludvera last year, RamRaid are top of the odds to be spearheading Liverpools scene. Delivering there ferocious attack of Thrash in the pioneering Bay-area and Teutonic styles, the band have quickly made a name for themselves around the North of England.

Despite not having a full release to date, the bands constant intense gig schedule, and online tracks have kept the band in the local spotlight. Delivering a strong live set and stage presence, including binding Thrash classics with their own material the band have quickly grown.

Following on from this years appearance at the annual Full Thrash Assault, the band also have a prime spot on the first Thrashoholic Fest, set to take place in August. And are currently busy recording their originals in the studio in between live shows. The band currently have two of their own songs; 'Reactor 4' and 'Systematic Genocide'. Both of which show the bands 'ultra-violence Thrash' approach, similar in style to the old school Exodus, Kreator and Sodom

The band currently have an EP in the works as well, featuring the aforementioned tracks and (...) more. And looking to have it done before the approach of 2015. Allow the focus on genocide and nuclear catastrophes to give you a taste of what's to come. The band certainly won't be relenting any time soon.

As well as the date at Thrashoholic, the band will also be keeping busy the rest of the year, with dates in Liverpool and *hint hint!* their debut in Manchester. As always full dates are below, so check them out!


RamRaid Dates 2014

July 11th - Out of the Ashes festival, Elsmere Port.
Aug 16th - Thrashoholic Fest, Leeds.
 

[L-R] Ben Gannon (Vocals, Guitar), Dominic Williams (Drums), Oscar Fitzpatrick (Guitar), Paul Hutton (Bass).

BLUDVERA//EXXXEKUTIONER//RAMRAID//INSURGENCY//GOREHEAD

It's with great pride we announce our premier Napalm Promotions show featuring: Bludvera, Exxxekutioner, RamRaid, Insurgency and Gorehead. Taking place at Manchesters Star and Garter on the 13th of September, this is one Thrash-fest of a gig not too be missed!

Back together for a few select dates around the UK following their split, Bludvera are hungry for more live shows once again. Coming up to Manchester for the first time since 2011, they're back in full force with the line-up direct from their debut album Terrorform.

Salford Thrashers, Exxxekutioner need no introduce, becoming a staple among the local scene since beggining last year. They can be seen everywhere in Manchester for good reason, they keep the crowd moving throughout everyone of their sets.

Coming up with Bludvera are Liverpools RamRaid, who are making their debut in Manchester after playing many places around the North-West. Expect speed and outright aggression.

Representing Lancaster are Insurgency, currently busy recording their first EP. The epitomy of old-school, raw, cutting Thrash is in good supply with them.

And finally are local lads, Gorehead. Hateful, disgusting filth straight from Manchester. Playing a ripping blend of Death, Grind and Thrash.

Tickets are available from the event page below, simply click on the flyer to be took to it. A measley £4 in advance, and £5 on the door. We hope you're all as excited for it as we are!

Cryptic Shift - Old Chapel [EP] [2014]

Following on from the Old Chapel Demos released by Cryptic Shift earlier this, comes their 'Old Chapel EP'. Re-recordings of their original tracks, doing them the justice they deserve. The much more powerful mix and master, along with the final welcome addition of vocals, make the EP a great improvement on the previously released demos.

Returing to the old haunt of Czar Street Studios in Leeds, the band have gone full out this time to give the tracks the justice they deserve. A number of changes have been made since the first inception of the demos earlier in the year, including the introduction of Hokumu Blitzkrieg on bass. The change is very prevelant, with Hokumus style being very different to their previous bassists sound. And for me it is certainly a welcome addition to the band, with his heavier focus on rythmn helping to guide and drive the songs in all the places they need. Although Oli Griffiths technical ability and great melodic bass playing was something that set the band apart, it often felt a bit too out of place among the songs. And with the music often being more tipped towards the rythmn end, a straight forward powerful and driving approach is often best.

The second major change to the EP tracks over the demos are the premier of vocals. And Rob Castles great display here certainly help bring the songs together whole. The icing on the cake if you would like! Vocals are certainly something that are central to keeping the tracks moving forward, and a great display of aggressive vocal styles keep the variety content high.

First track I got to hear, 'Mass Gathering' kicks straight in with a Thrash-esue catchy riff, that soon develops into a heavy driving rythmn to open the track. With groove elements coming prevelant in the verse, the song reaches a nice balance without leaning too heavy one way. Especially as the leads kick in after the chorus, and the prevelance of bass is shown once again with lead bass parts playing off with the guitar. A lesson in something a lot of bands could do with - turn your bassist up! As the track reaches it's instrumental section the tempo's change again keeps the variation high, and leads to an incredibly easy to distinguish track. Not monotonizing a single riff in it, instead developing on them.

Second track 'Leviathan Walk' is one certainly more Groove heavy, and a strike between classic Pantera and modern Lamb Of God. The chuggy riffs are in abundance, but helped out by again switching it up to higher sections to stop the sound from becoming too samey. The vocals in particular can be bordered upon Phil Anselmo territory, with the deep power to the uncontrolled whails, and gritty screams. It feels like the song sometimes plays upon it's main riff a bit too much, with it introducing the many different changes in the song, but it's something that certainly helps keep the music stuck in your memory as well.

Overall, from what I've heard, the EP is a massive upgrade from the previously released demos. The clarity and power it delivers notchs it far above, and gives the music and songwriting a platorm it really deserves. I can't wait to hear the rest later this year, and getting to see them live. To me the improvements on the EP have garnished a close to new found love for a band I feel have a lot of potential, and I feel further releases can truly be excellent . Maybe not the most original of sound, but a sound that is incredible none the less.

The release of the EP is yet to be announced, but expect it before the well anticipated Thrashoholic Fest. So everyone going best get to the front for these guys, and get a copy if you like what you hear. 'Mass Gathering is also going to be the recipient of the bands first music video, recorded by Andy Horry of Slaughter Throne.

Any fans in Leeds, Manchester or Liverpool may also be in for a treat as the band will be doing a short three date tour this Winter. Alongside Liverpudlian Thrashers Exiled and my own band Viocide. Dates are yet to be announced, but be sure Napalm will be the first to yell it at you when they are!

Full details on the EP will be announced as Cryptic Shift themselves let us know, and we look forward to hearing more! Great music, great guys. Go check them out!

All music by Cryptic Shift
Mixed by Cryptic Shift and David Whitaker
Recorded at Czar Street Studios
And set to be released by MAS Records

Cryptic Shift is:
Rob Castle - Vocals
Xander Bradley - Guitars
Ryan Sheperson - Drums
Hokumu Blitzkreig - Bass

Insurgency [Thrash/Lancaster, UK]

Heavy hitting Thrashers, Insurgency,  will have you thinking Lancaster is a city in Germany with their incredible Teutonic Thrash sound. The sort of band that would sound in their element opening for the likes of early Destuction, Sodom and Kreator. Insurgency take all the best elements of the old school, and leave the softer elements to rot. Uncompromising riffs, vocals, battery and brutality!

Starting just 2 years ago the 3-piece came to be from a mutual love of old school metal, and quickly found a sound akin to it. Using the tried and tested setup of single guitar, bass, vocals and drums, the band don't mess about delivering the goods of devastatingly powerful riffs and driving rythmn section.

First starting with demos straight from the off, the band posted a good few of their practice sessions on to SoundCloud, already having another for a solid demo down. Their first song properly recorded was 'Tunguska' which showcases the band overlying theme of warfare lyrics and chainsaw riffing.



Playing their first show in the September of 2012, the band bring it all to life when playing live. A brutal wall of sound brought about by the thick and quick Thrash assault is something to behold. And really pervays the sense of outright aggression that the band is all about. A good mix of the bands own songs and some covers of the afformentioned Teutonic greats make for an interesting and all powerful playlist, with no relenting from start to finish.



Their only release to date is the 'Live Insurgency Demo' a live recorded demo of three of their own tracks; Pan Arabic Attack, Beghazi and Desert Holocaust. The songs on the demo really take you back to the 80's incarnation of the more heavy styled Thrash giants such as Kreator, Exodus and Possesed. The harsh vocals, aggressive guitar , thunderous bass and blasting drums. All boxes of Thrash purity ticked.

The demo is currently on SoundCloud only, with a few CD promo copies floating about. Although reliable sources (totally not myself) know there may be a limited tape run of the demo too come. You'll have to keep your eyes out for that yourselves though!



The band are currently looking to release their debut before the year is out, with artwork already complete, and 'Desert Holocaust' released in anticipation for its release. Tracklisting is currently yet to be announced along with a date, but should not be all too far away. The band are also going to be playing a number of shows in the UK, including the fantastic Thrashoholic Fest. Full dates are shown below, as always check to see if they're in you town and get down to the show!

Artwork by Alice Biddau

 Upcoming Insurgency dates

18th Jul - The Boulevard, Wigan w/ Mower/Bastard of the Skiies
23rd Jul - Liverpool w/ Coltsblood/ Corrupt Mortal Altar/ Dismal
25th Jul - Royal British Legion, Newcastle - Stuart Bartlett's birthday w/ Wraith of Satan +1 more
16th Aug - Wharf Chambers, Leeds - Thrashoholic Fest.
13th Dec - Bannermans Bar, Edinburgh, Scotland - w/ Evil Blood, Exxxekutioner, NNGNN

[L-R] Malek Baali (Drums), Andrew Shackleton (Vocals, Guitar)
Will Anderson (Bass, Backing Vocals)

Napalm Show Venue Confirmed

It's a great pleasure to announce Manchesters Star and Garter as the venue for our first show in September! After looking at a variety of places around Manchester, we've gone with Star and Garter because of it's great sound, capacity and drink prices. The location right under one of Manchesters biggest train stations is also a bonus!

Located just down the road from Manchesters Picadilly Station, the venue is ideally located for anyone travelling to town being easy to find even to those with limited knowledge of the city center. Although relatively isolated, and detached from other buildings, it has a great atmosphere and size to accomidate large crowds. Plus it's isolation means amps up to 11 are no problem.

Star and Garters location, right near Picadilly Station.

We hope to have bands announced soon. We already have two bands ready, and a whole list of bands ready to ask to play, so it really shouldn't be long. More information will be coming soon!

Star and Garter venue.

Napalm Promotions on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NapalmPromotions

Date for first Napalm show confirmed!

After shopping round for the last few days, assesing venues, sending emails and all the rest, we now have a date and venue for our first show! We're not letting all the details slip just yet, but be sure to keep Saturday the 13th of September free, as that's when we'll be launching our first Napalm Promotions show.

We've chosen the date for a number of reasons; mostly because it is the beginning of the academic year. Maximising the chance of a solid turnout, and given ourselves a good audience to promote too. The date is on the weekend of MMU's freshers week, so we'll have plenty of new Manchester Metalheads to induct to the scene, and hopefully this'll be a great way to do it. Secondly, it gives us plenty of time to get the gig organised, and promote it to it's full extent. Expect to see flyers around just about every Metal spot in town! We'll be spamming you all like you won't believe.

Plenty more details will becoming your way soon, but all in moderation. We have a venue set, and also a couple of bands well up for it. So we're off to a solid start, but still have lots more to do also. Be sure to like us on facebook if you haven't already to keep up to date with the happenings, and we hope you guys can come down to catch the show!

We also want to thank Connor Lewis for helping us out getting the afformentioned venue which we'll be revealing soon. Thanks so much dude!

Cheers,
Napalm Crew.

Napalm Promotions on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NapalmPromotions

Almost Fatal Festival 2014 [Barrow In Furness] [12/07/2014]

Coming in July is this year Extreme Metal all dayer, rightfully dubbed 'Almost Fatal Festival'. Showcasing some of the UK's best extreme metal talent. There's a rather righteous 15 bands on the bill for the day, and all just for £6 for those buying in advance. The Wheatsheaf Inn, situated in the small town of Barrow plays host to the proceedings.

The festival is hosted by none other than Mr. Matt Davidson of Repulsive Vision himself. Making a really solid line up from first hand experience of seeing the bands. Heres what he has to say about the line-up below!

Avenger
We are very proud to announce Geordie NWOBHM legends Avenger as our headliner for the evening. Formed in 82 by 3 members of cult metal band, Blitzkrieg, the band have dominated stages all across the globe over their 30 year career and are by no means ready to stop. With a brand new album on the horizon (entitled 'Mace Imperial') and a growing worldwide fanbase, you will not want to miss this incredible experience in Barrow.
https://www.facebook.com/avengeruk1

Desecration
We are also pleased to announce the self proclaimed 'Death Metal Bastards', Desecration for the event. These Welsh purveyors of sickness and depravity have brought controversy and mayhem since the mid 90s when their debut album was seized and incinerated for obscenity. Since then, the band have continued to provide gore, gutturals and blastbeats all around the world with extensive tours and 6 (soon to be 7) intense slabs of recorded extremity on offer.
https://www.facebook.com/desecrationuk?ref=br_tf

Primitive Graven Image
Furiously relentless black metal inspired (yet totally not confined) by the works of Darkthrone, Emperor and Immortal. PGI have slowly evolved their sound over the 8 years since their formation with 3 boundary-pushing opuses and countless live shows. Melodic, speedy, aggressive and otherworldly.
https://www.facebook.com/primitivegravenimage
http://www.primitivegravenimage.com/

Gymir
Travelling far across the land from Southern shores, folk metallers Gymir are bringing their own brand of epic battle metal to proceedings. Prepare your war paint and raise your fist to this pagan assault from the lands of old.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Gymir/455799637833641

Foetal Juice
Fueled by necrophilia, gore and serial killers, this group of putrid Mancunian psychopaths are leaders in the UK death metal scene at the moment, with a hilariously dark sense of humour, brutal sound and a live show of unholy proportions.
https://www.facebook.com/FoetalJuice

Shades Of Avalon
Fusing the aggressive vocals of death metal with powerful grooves and a potent sense of melody, Northern barbarians Shades of Avalon are a band of battle metal brothers fighting for Viking war and copious amounts of ale.
https://www.facebook.com/ShadesOfAvalon

Pist
Although formed mere months ago, Manchester's Pist have gone from strength to strength at breakneck speed. With a tour booked, their sublime debut EP 'Riffology' sold out within weeks and a prospective album coming soon, we should expect great things from these riffmeisters.
https://www.facebook.com/pistband

Sathamel
Vicious Blackened Death Metal band from Leeds complete with a crushing sound and a blood soaked image. Recently featured in Terrorizer as band of the week (albeit under their previous name, Sheol) for their powerful debut Live Demo MMXIII, Sathamel are ready and willing to destroy all those in their way.
https://www.facebook.com/sathamelofficial

Repusive Vision
Local old school death metal band, often likened to legends such as Obituary, Napalm Death and Carcass, with an energetic stage presence and a debut release very close to completion. A rare hometown show.
https://www.facebook.com/RepulsiveVision

Austerymn
Swedish style Death Metal 20 years in the making. Beginning life in 1990, the band have recently reformed to continue their reign of 'godless terror' with a powerful sound and a passion for the HM-2.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Austerymn/447715821937969

Lizard Tongue
Soaked in thick fuzz and heavy grooves, Bradford based sludge doom band, Lizard Tongue are prepared to assault your ears with deep Southern growls and dirty riffs that demand to be headbanged to.
https://www.facebook.com/lizardtonguemetal

Exxxekutioner
- Mancunian thrash sounding like it's straight from the 80s with an energetic live show and a new EP coming out very soon. For fans of Sodom and Celtic Frost.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Exxxekutioner/1413994888820085

Iron Seawolf
Cumbria's very own pirate clan will be performing a special acoustic set outside in the beer garden providing a soundtrack for all the people enjoying the hot sunshine (fingers crossed), the cold rum on the rocks and the Barrrgghhhhbeque!
https://www.facebook.com/IronSeawolf

Dagrau
Inspired by the tales of Cumbria, Dagrau create acoustic black/folk opuses with a passion for local heritage and atmospheric heathen psalms.

Be sure to check out the event on facebook and get down and show your support if you can. It's a 100% for the fans by the fans style of show. Just what we like to see. Links as always are below.

facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/356405451168296Almost Fatal Productions: https://www.facebook.com/almostfatalproductions
Napalm Promotions on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NapalmPromotions

Gods Of War [Extreme/Liverpool, UK]

Liverpools Gods Of War are band built on the exploration of Metals more extreme side. Rejecting to pick aside among the ocean of subgenres, they've instead remained resilient. And instead mix and match at their own will, for the benefit of the music. Forming in 2009, the band currently have a demo, two EP's and a single under their belt. Along with an impressive plethora of shows, alongside bands such as; Insurgency, Bludvera, Exiled and D.A.M..

The bands first release came in 2009, the three track demo 'We March For Metal'. The release showcased the bands unique blend of Metal. From the acoustic opening of Mourning The Departed develops a song highlighting Thrash-esque riffing, powerful leads NWoBHM style, and deep, rough vocals akin with Black and Death Metal. The demo really is a divere showing throughout and helps keep it interesting, with songs of changing direction rather quickly and sharply.
 

Following up the demo the band released their first EP 'Litanies Of War' in October of 2011. Continuing to push forward experimenting with their infusion of genres, the EP benifited from a much greater production value which helped add power to the tracks. Kicking straight off with 'Ignite', the EP remains consistently strong throughout. The overwhelming theme and focus on battle and combat warranting the display of power in and rythmn. My only real criticism would be some sections in the riffing that rely on the single note chugging a bit too much, something which is rather prevelant towards tthe start of 'Foes Who Oppose Me'. Although the song does redeem this with great key changes towards the middle interlude, adding a great contrast.


Gods Of War - Litanies Of War [EP] [2011]

01. Ignite
02. Pillage and Punder
03. Foes Who Oppose Me
04. Apocalypse
05. Arrival

Gods Of War - Litanies Of War [EP] [2011]

After releasing their first single 'Gods Of Old' in 2013, the band was ready for a full follow up to Litanies by 2014, and 'Tales From The Dark Lands' was unleashed. In the EP you can definetely hear how the band are starting to find their sound and define themselves. All the time still keeping the different genres elements but in a more cohesive way. It's really cool to see a band that can take so many influences and really build them together to create music that can switch up parts from song ot song. A really good example of this is the change between 'Gods Of Old' and 'Operation Engage'. With Gods' more somber ending opening up into the more Thrash orientated Engage, where vocal styles are changed completely to compliment the track.


Gods Of War - Tales From The Dark Lands [EP] [2014]

01. Formost
02. Gods Of Old
03. Operation Engage
04. Angmar

Gods Of War - Tales From The Dark Lands [EP] [2014]

The band are currently continuing gigging, with their dates listed below, so be sure to get to a show if you can. Their discography is also currently all on Bandcamp with on a 'name your price' basis. If you like what you hear then definetely go and download one... or them all! If I had to recommend one then if most likely be the latest, 'Tales From The Dark Lands' as it definetely seems like the bands best to date. They're definetely a band that have developed with time. Also make sure you do drop them a few pennies when downloading, as it will keep them on the road and gigging!

[L-R] Danny Hell (Vocals), Kris Dobson (Drums),
Matt Hughes (Guitar, Backing Vocals)
James Collins (Bass, Backing Vocals)

Upcoming Dates

21/06/14 - The Yorkshire House, Lancaster, UK
w/ Project Unicorn, King Cobra.

24/07/14 - Sound Control, Manchester, UK
w/ ArnoCorp, Footprints In The Custard, Scumface.

Gods Of War facebook
Gods Of War BandCamp
Napalm Promotions facebook

Nomad - The House Is Dead [EP] [2014]

Stomping on to the Doom scene with their EP are Manchesters down-tuned deliverers of despair, Nomad. Coming together late 2011, the 4-piece unleashed their 'The House Is Dead' earlier this year on the When Planets Collide label. Relentlessly heavy from the off, the EP has certainly put them in good standing among the Manchester scene.

Opening track 'Slaves To Mourning' kicks off proceedings in the expectedly heavy fashion. The slow and thick groove instilling the overall despairing overtones of the track, piloting it forward with the incredible grit of vocalist Rev. Drian Nash's voice. The track has use of some fairly upbeat riffs appearing after the chorus that are well developed to progressively deepen and give contrast to the tracks swings in mood throughout. Often intensifying in synch with the vocals, to give a good sense of sound diversity in the track.

The EP has the despair side of Doom as an overriding theme throughout, with most songs building to the heavy end of the scale. It is nice to hear that melody and lead guitar work is used as a way of diversifying the songs and adding new dynamics through the EP developing.

Nomad certainly takes and executes the key features of the Doom genre well, in particular keeping a groove to the heaviness, but it feels like their is room for implementation of other ideas in some tracks. Maybe trying to work in some softer sections in the vain of bands such as Acid Bath to help give the haviness more of a punchy arrival wouldn't be such a bad idea to try. And spreading the tempo for these sections should certainly help achive that.

Overall the EP is a stellar performance by the band. Well executed throughout to pervey that true despair and dread that has become it's defining accolade since the genres development after early Sabbath, it certainly feels like well written Doom Metal. Well recomended to any fans of the genre.

The EP is available on When Planets Collide's BandCamp now on a name your price basis (be nice and give them something). And cassetes with sticker packs are also available for a reasonable £4.95, just for you old school listeners out there. CD's are currently out of stock unfortunately. To buy the EP just visit the links at the bottom of the page.

Nomad - The House Is Dead [EP] [2014]

Nomad is:
Lewis Atkinson - Guitar
Hayley McIntyre - Drums
Rev. Drian Nash - Vocals
John C - Bass

Find the band on facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/Nomaddoom
The House Is Dead EP: http://whenplanetscollide.bandcamp.com/album/the-house-is-dead
Napalm Promotions on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NapalmPromotions

Exiled [Thrash/Liverpool, UK]

Straight out of Liverpool are young Thrashers Exiled. Combining the classic sound of bands like Exodus and Testament, with newer influences in bands such as Havok and Evile, they've created their own sound in the relatively short time they've being together. With their first gig coming in October of 2013 supporting UK Thrash legends D.A.M., along with local bands Bludvera, RamRaid and Gods of War. The band have continued to gig consistantly since, and have one track 'Nuclear Holocaust' recorded so far.

Flyer for the Halloween Hell show

Their first show was on the Halloween of 2013, stepping up in support up for UK legends D.A.M., alongside fellow Liverpudlian bands Bludvera, RamRaid and Gods of War. And I was luckily enough to be in attendance after my friend Danny made a trip down after talking to the band over Facebook. Despite having big boots to fill for a first show, the band seemed relaxed and confident, eager to get on stage and have a good time. For an opening set the band certainly weren't shy and managed to pefrorm a great set mixing in their Thrash offereings with cover of Testament classic 'Alone In The Dark', and Iron Maidens self-titled track. The set warmed up the crowd nicely, and got a great crowd response from people generally unfamiliar with the band, leaving a great first impression. The set went down as well as could be hoped, and definetely stoof up to all other bands on the bill.

Since the show the band have recorded their own song 'Nuclear Holocaust' with the help of friends in a true DIY style. Showcasing the band for the first time, the track has more than a nod to the classic slice of Bay Area goodness. With ripping riffs right from the off, supported by a solid rhythmn section, the song will certainly appeal to the fans who cherish the classics of Thrash. Topped off with the genre standard lyrics on nuclear war, and shredding leads, the track covers all bases.

Exiled - Nuclear Holocaust [Single] [2013]

The band are currently looking for a new drummer, though are continuing to push through with shows into Summer, with an appearance at Thrashoholic Fest and a support slot for Desolator along with Terror Drone and Reaper in Manchester. Drumming duties are currently being covered just for these shows. As always if you like what you here, check out the links below.

[L-R] John Riley (Bass/Backing Vocals), Liam Kempton-Robshaw (Drums) (Recently left the band),
Joe Bradley (Lead Guitar/Backing Vocals), Sam Robinson (Rythmn Guitar/Vocals).

Exiled on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/exiledliverpool
And on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRI3v6YldbsxUE3sa80nM8g
Show with Desolator: https://www.facebook.com/events/783974394970904/?ref=ts&fref=ts
Napalm Promotions on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NapalmPromotions

Crÿptic Shift [Thrash/Groove/Leeds, UK]

Hailing from Leeds, Cryptic Shift are a Thrash band bringing Groove elements in to the mix. With influences ranging quite diversly from old timers like Sepultura and Pantera, to modern shredders Revocation and the heavy hitting Lamb Of God. The band originally formed in 2010 as just a bit of fun playing the music they loved. Undergoing a few line-up changes, they finally solidified in 2013 and started on the local gigging circuit. The band currently have one EP, recorded early 2014 titled 'The Old Chapel Demos".

Cryptic Shift - The Old Chapel Demos [2014]

The EP is five tracks long and showcases the bands wide array of influences. With the name coming from the place it was recorded at, Old Chapel Studios. One thing to note is the prevelance of bass in the mix, and how to key is it to the groove side of proceedings. It really drives through and plays alongside the guitar, as opposed to usual modern approach of 'drown it out'. It's nice to be able to hear it come though in a raw and natural way for once. The EP is available to listen to and download on a 'name your price' basis. So be nice and chuck them a few quid if you do decide to download it.


Crÿptic Shift - The Old Chapel Demos [EP] [2014]

01. Mass Gathering
02. Noose Crowned Prophet
03. Slaughtergazm
04. Leviathon Walk
05. In Revolution We Trust




The bands future plans are to be soldiering on recording more material, and also get to playing out of town shows and start touring. And inbetween also getting wasted and having a fun time. Just what it's all about! I'm yet to see the band live, but they'll be playing at this years Thrashoholic Fest, which drummer, Ryan, is a part of putting on with Leeds Metal Scene Promotions. My own band, Viocide, will be playing alongside them, so it's a good a time as ever to see them!

The guys in Crÿptic Shift all seem like a bunch of guys in the band for the music and fun times, just generally doing what they do for the love and enjoyment of it. And that's just about the best reason for it. If you like what you hear, as ever be sure to check out the links below and support the band. It's what these bios and spotlights are all about!

[L-R] Rob Castle (Vocals), Oli Griffiths (Bass), Ryan Shepherson (Drums), Xander Bradley (Guitar).

Crÿptic Shift on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crypticshift
The Old Chapel Demo: https://cryptic-shift.bandcamp.com
MAS Records: http://mightyatomsmasher.com/
Napalm Promotions facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NapalmPromotions

Driven Apart - Shadow Built [EP] [2013]

Driven Apart - Shadow Built [EP] [2014]

Driven Apart is the brain child of lead guitarist and main songwriter, Leigh Davies. Existing in various forms for many years, the band once again took presidence in early 2013 with Leigh re-building the bands line-up, along with drummer Chris O'Rourke. Work began on the EP along with a full line-up, and was recorded and self-released in late 2013. Complimented by a number of dates showcasing tracks on the EP.

Kicking straight in with the energetic and rythmic offering of 'Let Them Howl', the EP blasts in to action straight from the off, and builds progressively throughout. A great driving track with a very catchy chorus section that makes great use of the three guitarist line-up Driven Apart have. The power in the delivery is just phenomenal, with the instrumental side giving a solid back bone to the strength in vocalist Mike Coyles voice. The final build up to the end of the song completed with masterful leads from Leigh, make the structure incredibly interesting, and can keep you hooked throughout.

Second track 'Shadow Built' introduces a lot of the progressive side of the band, and builds around the central riff throughout, developing it in great ways to keep the song forever moving forward. The catch of the chorus being present once again, but without the verses being so full on as in 'Let Them Howl'. Instead allowing the song to move forward at a slower and steadier rate.

Bringing the EP to a close is the bands epic 'Blood Of Aesop' coming in at a whopping ten minutes long. The song goes from the softest of acoustic undertakings, to the bands charecteristic use of melodic riffing and lead guitar use. Building tempo to no end throughout, the song demonstrates just about all elements of Driven Aparts versatility and song writing skills. Matching the surreal fabled legends of Aesop himself.

My only criticisms of the EP as a whole are the general production. Specifically on drums with the sound being a little thin and lacking in power, which is prevalant in the opening to 'Let Them Howl', with the toms sounding a little bit plastic-like and non organic. The production to some end lets down an otherwise perfect execution by Chris on drums. The only other critique being that the length of the songs can put off more 'casual listeners' of Metal with their progressive build. Although again it's a matter of taste, and the structures have more than enough strength to keep fans listening throughout the entire EP.

Overall the EP is a great show of musical finesse and talent. With it having a real feel of long time development and care to perfect the songs and make them just perfect. It certainly pays off when it all comes together so fluidly and well. A definite recomendation for anyone into Metal of any sort of genre, and specifically those who love it with a progressive and melodic twist.

Album art by Laimamori.

[L-R] Rob Duerden (Bass), Mike Coyle (Vocals), Danny Hindley (Guitar),
Chris O'Rourke (Drums), Adam Luckman (Guitar), Leigh Davies (Guitar),

Driven Aparts website: http://www.drivenapart.com
Driven Apart on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drivenapartband
Laimamori on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laima.mori
Napalm Promotions on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NapalmPromotions

Repulsive Vision [Death Metal/Cumbria, UK]

From the darkest reaches of Ulverston, Cumbria comes the unmistakably heavy sound of Repulsive Vision, bringing a slice of Old School Death Metal to the otherwise sleepy county. The bands main influences stretch from the many branches of Death Metal history, including Floridas famed scene with bands such as Morbid Angel, Obituary and Death. Sweedish legends Entombed and At The Gates. And influences a little closer to home with bands like Carcass and Napalm Death. The band are currently in the process of producing their first EP 'Premature Burial', which is due to be out soon.

Formed in the December of 2010 as the result of an influx of ideas by main Songwriter Matt Davidson, Repulsive Vision grew from the music he wrote that didn't quite fit into his other projects at the time (The Vile Bodies, Ensnared). Spending many months riding solo bringing together these ideas and developing them into the bands first songs, Matt soon began recruiting members for what has become to be known Replusive Vision. After solidifying their line up the band have continued practice and have kept busy playing many gigs, with slots supporting Destroyer 666, Hecate Enthroned and Avenger.

Repulsive Visions sound is unmistakably gutteral, forged through the many years of Death Metals development. Taking inspiration from the entire spectrum has allowed the band to keep songs varied and interesting throughout. An example of this is the difference in sound from the more Old School Florida Death Metal inspired 'Bathroom Surgery'. Compared to 'Credophillic' which has more hints of later Swedish offerings, most notably later era At the Gates. Each track allows it's influence to bleed through, but without letting it devour the song and just become a clone of the afformentioned bands.

Subject matter of the band are also well thought out, and more focused on avoiding the typical blood and gore that oversaturates the genre. Instead substituting it for political, philosophical andsocial ideals. Featuring songs on censorship, video nasties and scapegoats. Making for a new and fresh element to their overall sound.

Repulsive Vision - Nematocyst and HSHK live at W43, Newcastle [07/12/2012]

Be sure to catch one of Repulsive Visions shows if they're in the vacinity. These guys are keeping themselves busy until September, so there's plenty of gigs to choose from. Cities they'll be hitting include; Manchester, Barrow In Furnes, Bridlington, Bishop Auchland and Edinburgh.

Repulsive Visions upcoming shows

[L-R] Matt Davidson (Guitar), Gary Young (Drums), Mark Pardy (Vocals), Alex Jones (Bass).
Photo credit: Repulsive Vision.

Repulsive Vision on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RepulsiveVision
Premature Burial demos: https://www.facebook.com/RepulsiveVision/app_178091127385
Napalm Promotions on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NapalmPromotions