Rock Fist Reviews

Review of Wake of the Titan’s “Goodnight Cold Earth” Album
~ Kris Melton

Sample if you like: 30 Seconds to Mars, Deftones, Muse, Tool
Location: Atlanta, GA

The album begins with an instrumental intro that sounds ideal for building anticipation at a live show. Beginning with a squealing guitar, it gains heavy momentum as the song progresses. This is followed by “Goodnight Cold Earth”, which was a good choice as a title track, considering the marketable sound similar to 30 Seconds to Mars. The repetitive high-pitched guitar is paired with a pulsating drum and whispering vocals, then picks up intensity once it reaches the chorus. In this song as well as others the back-up vocals have a notable harmony that compliments the lead vocals. The hammer-ons and pull-offs paired with the distortion in the guitar solo is an engaging way to lead into to the finale. “Forward Motion” demonstrates a more progressive sound with a dark guitar and bass to help set the mood. The listener can also get a better grasp of Jake’s vocal range. “If We’re Quiet” is a bit bi-polar as there’s a dramatic difference between the soft verses and the stronger chorus. We hear screaming vocals for the first time on the album. The guitar solo really offsets the bridge into the chorus at the end. “Maybe Tomorrow” has a more generic sound with lyrics listeners can relate to. “The Cycle” has ambient melodies in its verses, with changes that seem to come in waves or a cycle much like its title. Very rarely can a singer be compared to Tool’s lead vocalist Maynard, but there is certainly some resemblance in parts of this song. They’re next scheduled show is in Alpharetta, GA on Friday, September 25th at Uptown Loft.

RFR Rating:
Rock Fist Up
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Wake of the Titan is:
Lead Vocals/ Guitars- Jake
Guitars/ Vocals- Blue
Drums/ Vocals- Daniel
Bass/ Vocals- Moss

Wake of the Titan MySpace: www.myspace.com/wakeofthetitanband

Review of UltraDrive

Sample if you like: Disturbed, Staind, Chevelle, Shinedown
Location: Atlanta, GA

UltraDrive has been a part of the Atlanta music scene for the better part of the last decade. In that time they have been featured on Project 9-6-1’s HomeGrown show as well as opening for Saving Abel last year and Chevelle this past April. Their familiar southern rock appeal and lack of it straying into uncharted territory will appeal to those who go for that typical sound. The four songs off their current untitled EP, while relatively monotone, stuck to the band’s true colors and what has previously drawn their fan base. “Crush” has an alternative backbone with a catchy chorus. “I Don’t Know” reflects a softer, slower side with an acoustic guitar. “Fairer Side” picks up the pace with heavier instrumentals. “From the Outside” opens with a heavy rift on guitar and positive lyrics. Having caught a live performance of theirs in the past, what you hear recorded is what you’ll hear at their show. A point of suggestion would be for the guys to try something new. While remaining true to the sound that originally captured your audience can be important, equally so is branching out to get noticed. When it’s been tried and yet to achieve its ultimate goal, its time to adjust the game plan. If the traditional alternative, southern rock is what you love then these guys are worth checking out.

~Kris Melton

RFR Rating:
Rock Fist Up
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UltraDrive is:
Lead Vocals/ Acoustic Guitar- Jay Henderson
Lead Guitar/ Vocals- Tommy Thompson
Bass/ Vocals- Allen “Whisky” Milligan
Drums/ Keys- Derrick Dickey

www.myspace.com/ultradrive
www.UltraDriveMusic.com

Review of Twilight Gunfight’s EP “Just Enough Light to Cast Shadows”
~ Kris Melton
Sample if you like: Incubus, Sick Puppies
Other Rock Fist Artists you may like: The Drownout, FERVoR, Winter Ransom
Location: Atlanta, GA

Photo by KO-Tography 09

For a creative and catchy collaboration of both progressive and alternative rock, give Twilight Gunfight a spin on the ole music player. The EP starts and ends with instrumental pieces. “Silent Wars” opens with dramatic and classical strings in a somber yet beautiful manner. About three minutes into the song however the guitar and drums hit into a heavier gear and dazzle the listener. “Just Enough Light to Cast Shadows” closes the EP with a slow, spacey track that’s complimented by a piano and acoustic guitar. The best way possibly to describe it is as a rock lullaby sending the listener on their way. The tracks that fill the gap between these two instrumental beauty’s each have their own unique sound from the others, making the EP dynamic as opposed to drab. One quality that holds true for each track is the phenomenal guitar and its creative impact. Songs like “The Strangers” and “Mech-Aquatil Equinox” really reflect the talent behind the player with their badass guitar sequences. “Gravity” carries a little more pop meets progressive sound in comparison to other songs. “Damn Right” begins with an ambient guitar and drums, but then breaks into a heavier set. As the guitar cries during the chorus a sense of desperation is felt. “Still Frame” is slower and sweeter with a prominent bass line. “The Great Neutrality” is by far the band’s best track and probably the most marketable. With strong vocals, playful hammerons and pulloffs, and a catchy chorus, this song was love at first sound.
The band recently played on the “Loose Lips Sink Ships Tour” with The Armory in Rochester, NY with locals This AM Static. They guys recently finished up their summer tour, and are currently working on new material which is likely to be out early 2010. After recording is completed they plan on touring the southeast to promote the upcoming album. It’s too early to post information on their future shows, but Twilight Gunfight should stay on your radar for bands you should check out live.
RFR Rating:
Both Rock Fists Up
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Twilight Gunfight is:
Vocals/ Guitars- Ricky Free
Drums- Beetle
Bass (on album, no longer with band)- Mike Hale

www.myspace.com/twilightgunfight

Review of The First Stone’s “Quarter to Never” Album
~ Kris Melton

Sample if you like: Ben Harper, John Mayer, Dave Matthew’s Band
Location: Atlanta, GA

The First Stone’s “Quarter to Never” is a rustic, easy going album with traces of soul and storytelling as its core. Lyrics tend to be poetic and tender paired with beautiful melodies and catchy choruses. The instruments never over power each other, but play off each other. The bass shines out in their songs, the guitars capture the mood, and additions like a piano bring a simplistic beauty to their melodies. “Are You With Me” is fairly simple with deep, dramatic vocals. “Close To Nothing” has more of an alternative influence and a bitter undertone. “Hideaway” adds a bit of funk to the mix with clever love lyrics like, “I’d like to make you the queen of my afternoon”. “The First Stone” combines soul and pop creating playful rifts. The guitar solo has a good tone and is creatively in synch with the rest of the song. “With A Little Luck” features an acoustic guitar and piano creating a humble and sweet love song. “This Time” changes gears into a more sexually charged song with fun change-ups. The band’s personal favorite is “What About You”. The melancholy piano and tormented vocals make this song deeper and more contemplative compared to others on the album. If lyrics with depth, funky bass lines, and unique guitar riffs sound right up your ally, check out The First Stone’s debut album. Their single “Walking Away” is available for download now from the band’s Myspace page.

RFR Rating:
Rock Fist Up
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The First Stone is:
Vocals/ Acoustic & Electric Guitar/ Piano- Brian Kelly
Bass- Dave Baranik
Acoustic & Electric Guitar/ Wurlitzer/ Piano- Nate Kieser
Drums- Aubrey Bailey

www.thefirststone.com
www.myspace.com/thefirststonemusic

Review of Steadlur’s “Steadlur” Album
~Benjamin King

Sample if you like: My Chemical Romance, Motley Crue, Quicksand, or The Donnas
Location: Atlanta GA

Picture from roadrunnerrecords.co.uk

Steadlur is a band I have heard on many rock bills around Atlanta for at least four to five years. They put on a great live show, which they soon will be taking to Europe. On the other hand, this is about how Steadlur translates to a recorded form. I missed the show the other day. So I went to roadrunnerrecords.com, the band’s label, and pre-listened to the entire record. Something more labels should do.

This band is defiantly in line with our 80’s power rock and metal gods. Back in my pre-teen years, this record would for sure been a number one. Saying that I think this record falls right into line with some of the bigger records that are coming out today too. I was taken away on songs like “My Mom hates me”. It has a cool, funny, catchy hook (chorus). The lead guitar riff is ripping. It kind of reminds me of a strip tease with a big finish. “Bumpin” is a song I have heard before, by them, but it has never been done this well by the guys. The song has a gigantic refrain, bigger than previous demo versions and is produced to the tee. “Angel (on the wrong side of Town) is my favorite on the record. Then again I am a sap for the big power ballad with a solid lead guitar. I dig, what I believe the song to be about. The drums have an off timing feel to them which makes the song remind me of Angels for Air Waves!

Picture from roadrunnerrecords.co.uk

I commend the boys in Steadlur on a great record. The world should be in for a big treat now, and in the future. Pick up this record on pre-order at the bands web page. It’s a record to not miss in 2009.

Rock Fist Rating:
Rock fist up and banging my big hair
lml

Steadlur is:
Philip Steadlur /Guitar & vocals
Daniel Steadlur/ Bass
Tommy Steadlur/ Lead Guitar
Dallas Steadlur/ Drums

www.myspace.com/steadlur
www.roadrunnerrecdords.co.uk

Review of Soul Stash’s Self Titled Album
~ Kris Melton

Sample if you like: Nickelback, Train, Live, 3 Doors Down
Location: Atlanta, GA

Soul Stash delivers a musically dynamic collaboration of songs on their self titled album. Sounds vary from alternative/pop to heavy instrumentals, to rap-style vocals. This is not one of those bands where every song sounds the same. They prove to be risk takers in that aspect, creating what they want and unafraid to explore within their talents. “Big Impression” has positive lyrics paired with dual guitars that compliment each other, while the drums and bass seem to pop. “Frantic” opens with funky squealing guitars and quickly changes to an easy going flow. The guitars really make the song, especially with strong drums and a playful bass in its chorus. Both lyrics and instruments express a sense of urgency and frustration. “Hold Me Under” adds a slight country sound to the mix, giving off a taste of southern soul. The bass is funky, the vocals are quick, and the guitar solo has a classic catch to it. “Lost in Las Vegas” has a wild, southern sound, and has the best guitar solo on the album. “Blame” slows things down featuring an acoustic guitar and sweet vocals. “Creation” is a beautiful addition. This instrumental song has a delicate melody and an enchanting acoustic guitar. Although “Catching On” opens with a heavy intro, the chorus has more of a pop feel to it, thus appealing to a wide range of audiences. This is definitely a song that you could envision hearing on the radio. Perhaps the best song on the album is also the last. “When Will The Time Come” is a catchy song that really strikes a chord with the listener. Who can’t relate to lyrics like “When will the time come when I will heal”? The vocals flow from smooth into a “rap” style, paired with alternative music in its bridge. All in all a solid album that gives a great first impression of Soul Stash. The guys next performance is on Friday, October 9th at The Masquerade in Atlanta, GA with Almost Kings (see our previous review on Almost Kings).

RFR Rating:
Both Rock Fists Up
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Soul Stash is:
Vocals/ Guitar- Joel Williams
Guitar- Clay Houle
Drums- Tanner Hendon
Bass/ Guitar/ Vocals- Marshall Coats

www.soulstashmusic.com
Soul Stash’s MySpace: www.myspace.com/soulstash

Review of Pour Habit’s “Suiticide” Album
~ Kris Melton

Sample if you like: NOFX, Strung Out, Offspring
Location: Compton, CA
Record Label: Fat Wreck Chords

Some bands naturally have that “it” factor; that extra something special that sets them apart from their peers. Pour Habit has “it”, and their album “Suiticide” is sure to impress and catch on with those exposed to their aggressively catchy tracks. The band has signed on with Fat Wreck Chords and has been touring nationally with bands like Strung Out, so exposure and thus success are well within their grasp. This high-energy punk meets metal group has put together an album that’s gratifying from start to finish. Vocals are high pitched paired with comprehensible lyrics that are reminiscent of Dexter Holland of Offspring. “Institution” kicks off the album full force with drums and guitars that rip, combining punk and metal for an explosive opener to the album. “Against Me” is full of robust flavor packed into just under two minutes. Intense drums open and the melodically heavy guitars instantly grab the listener’s attention with catchy choruses and a mesmerizing bridge. “Misfigured” addresses the band’s diversity with a pronounced bass and chants leading into the chorus. “Bad Luck Drunk” is the band’s anthem to drinking which is sure to inspire mosh pits and debauchery. “Evolution” delivers another hard hitting song with a great hook. If having a bad day, one should turn the volume up and scream along to this track; the chorus’ lyrics seem like they were created for that very purpose. “Zion” adds reggae to the mix, which serves as a teaser into the rest of the song. You can really hear how strong the vocals are, as well as the talented guitar shredding. The title track, “Suiticide” evolves throughout the duration of the song. Instruments are solid and serve up a great delivery. Possibly the best song off the album is “Resignation”, which is sure to encourage head banging, rock fisting, and the like. Lyrics like “Liars, fakers, money makers” in its chorus make this memorable track an instant favorite. Pour habit continues touring again in January, and you can find all of their upcoming show information on their web pages listed below. Their album “Suiticide” is available for purchase now.

RFR Rating:
Both Rock Fists Up
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Pour Habit is:
Vocals- Chuck
Guitar/ Vocals- Eric
Guitar- Shaun
Drums- Colin
Bass/ Vocals- Steve

www.pourhabit.com
www.myspace.com/pourhabit
www.fatwreck.com

Review of Mondays Are Various’ “Racecar Anna” Album
~Kris Melton

Sample if you like: The Smiths, Silversun Pickups, Sick Puppies, Nirvana
Location: Atlanta, GA

It’s obvious that songwriters, like Morrisey, have influenced Mondays Are Various. They seem to appreciate deeper, more out of the box styled lyrics, as well as instrumentals that keep it light with an easy going flow. “Angeline” opens the album with verses that are airy and light and lead into a chorus reminiscent of early 90’s alternative. The repetitive chorus, vocals that seem to whine or cry out, and guitar with a slight dark side come together for a sound that could very well be a lost Nirvana track. The strumming guitar that opens “Cracks in the Sidewalk” takes you back to the 60’s with its ambient and hippie inspired vibes. This is one of the band’s best tracks, and its classic rock base will appeal to a bigger audience than others off the album. A fun, upbeat song that leaves you thinking, “What the..?” is “Racecar Anna”. Most of the vocals are more talking than singing and seem to be random thoughts to a soundtrack. “Rectangular Chair” screams west coast influence, and sets the mood for a day at the beach while Ken sings, “Hang Fire”. Probably one of their best tracks is “You”, a bittersweet love song with a slight twang in its guitar and delicate instrumentals. You can hear the range in Ken’s vocals without them overpowering the song. Although the guys have only been a band for about a year, Ed Encinias and Ken Gambill have been writing music together since 2003. Their album “Racecar Anna” is available for purchase now, but the band has already begun writing new material with hopes to release a second album next year.

RFR Rating:
Rock Fist Up
lml

Mondays Are Various is:
Lead Vocals- Ken Gambill
Lead & Rythym Guitar/ Bass- Ed Encinias
Drums- Scotty Bryan

www.myspace.com/mondaysarevarious

Review of Mastodon’s “Crack the Skye” Album
Sample if you like: Slayer, Slipknot, Clutch
Other Rock Fist artists you may like: Colossick
Location: Atlanta, GA

Three years after Blood Mountain, Mastodon has released their fourth album Crack The Skye. The album is in fact a story about a quadriplegic having “an out of body experience”, says Bill Kelliher in a MusicRadar interview. This album strays away from typical, overdone topics, and is a musical masterpiece. Their unique and original sound pulls from other influences while combining an array of creative musical additions and transitions. While Mastodon has received little radio air time, the first track “Oblivion” could easily be a break through track. While it maintains a heavy delivery, its ambient intro and catchy chorus will appeal to a broader audience. “Divinations” opens with a quick banjo leading into a duel of rumbling drums and electric guitar. A voice, reminiscent of Ozzy Osborne, shines melodically within the chorus and then progresses into a dramatic scream within the verses. The bridge of this song is nothing short of impressive. “Quintessence” reflects a more old school feel while combining both metal and melody with intense drums and a creative guitar. Opening with a delicate, ambient opening, “The Czar” has four chapters, each with their own sound and contribution to the album’s story. The title track “Crack The Skye” uses a distorted robotic voice and reflects a darker, heavier, more climatic portion of the album. While beginning slow and somber, after about 3 minutes into “The Last Baron” the song picks-up into a heavier sound with an intense and masterful finale. Since the bands creation in 2000, they have become a favorite in the underground metal scene. Crack The Skye, however, as well as touring nationally and participating in festivals such as Mayhem last summer, have generated a slew of attention and a larger fan base. Entering the Billboard charts at 11 one week after its release, Crack The Skye is sure to be a major propeller into fame as well as a must have addition to your music library.
~Kris Melton

RFR Rating:
Both Rock Fists Up
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Mastodon is:
Bass/ Lead and Backing Vocals- Troy Sanders
Lead Guitar/ Lead and Backing Vocals- Brent Hinds
Rhythm Guitar/ Vocals- Bill Kelliher
Drums- Brann Dailor

www.myspace.com/mastodon
www.mastodonrocks.com

Review of Legend Has It’s “Driven” Album
~ Kris Melton

Sample if you like: Jimmy Eats World, Blink 182,
Sound: Rock / Pop Punk / Powerpop
Location: Atlanta, GA

Driven is an album with rock at its core, but embraced with catchy pop hooks and traces of punk influence, creating a popular sound of today’s music. The high-pitched melodic vocals harmonize with the more intense instrumentals, creating a balance for songs that get stuck on repeat in your head. The album starts off strong with “Anything You Want To Sing”, one of the band’s best songs and also the most marketable. The distorted guitar rips the song open and while all instruments exhibit raw dexterity, the strong vocals keep the sound full and contemporary. “Simple Change” has a happy-go-lucky pop-punk melody. “After The Fall” has a soft bridge that really highlights the vocals, and is another song with a contagious hook. “Live For The Now” uses a transition from slow instrumentals and somber vocals to a zealous change in tempo paired with positive lyrics. “Into Reality” and “Run Away” utilize more alternative influences in comparison to other tracks. “Work In Progress” closes the album with a slow melodious song born from personal reflection. A personal favorite off the album is “Given The Chance”, which has a fun and easy to sing along to chorus inspired by lady love. Driven is available for purchase now, and you can find information on the album and upcoming show dates on the Legend Has It’s website.

RFR Rating:
Rock Fist Up
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Legend Has It is:
Vocals- Derek Walton
Bass- Richard Allen
Lead Guitar- Brandon Pool
Guitar- Andy Kemmerer
Drums- Jon Bottoms

www.legendhasit.net
www.myspace.com/legendhasitrocks