SEVENDUST ANNOUNCE “BLOOD & STONE” DELUXE

DIGITAL EXPANDED EDITION OF BAND’S 13th STUDIO ALBUM SCHEDULED FOR RELEASE ON DECEMBER 10

New Version Containing Five New Tracks Including Three Never-Before-Released Remixes and Two Newly Recorded Songs –
Now Available For Pre-Save Here

With the recent completion of their US headline tour and the critical and fan success of their 13th album Blood & Stone, heavy metal legends Sevendust are announcing the release of the digital expanded edition of that album. Blood & Stone Deluxe contains five new tracks including three never-before-released remixes and two newly recorded songs. Jake Bowen of Periphery, Richard Wicander of Fire From The Gods and Justin deBlieck formerly of Ice Nine Kills provide remixes and the band finished recording “All I Really Know” and “What You Are” specifically for this release. Blood & Stone Deluxe is being released via all digital partners via Rise Records and was produced by Michael “Elvis” Baskette.

Blood & Stone Deluxe is now available for pre-save here: 

To coincide with the announcement of Blood & Stone Deluxe, Sevendust has released a visualizer for “What You’ve Become (Justin deBlieck Remix).” The Justin deBlieck remix contains the emotion of the original while building upon thematical musical elements adding a massive string arrangement to it. The band will also release snippets of the other remixes: “Dying To Live (Jake Bowen Remix) will be available on the evening of Wednesday, December 8th and Kill Me (Richard Wicander Remix) on the morning of December 9th. Blood & Stone Deluxe will be released worldwide digitally on December 10th. The visualizer for “What You’ve Become (Justin deBlieck Remix)” can be seen here:

From the pulsating intro of album opener “Dying To Live” to the now popular original album closer “The Day I Tried To Live,” Sevendust continue to push the sound they have made their own for more than 25 years. Tracks like “Love,” “Blood From A Stone,” “Kill Me” and “Against The World” showcases why the band has been adored by fans and critics alike. Lajon Witherspoon, Clint Lowery, John Connolly, Vince Hornsby and Morgan Rose raised the bar with Blood & Stone and continue to push it further with Blood & Stone Deluxe. The new music fits perfectly alongside with the bands most seminal tracks that have become the cornerstone of the band’s live performances.

The track listing for Blood & Stone Deluxe is:
1) Dying To Live
2) Love
3) Blood From A Stone
4) Feel Like Going On
5) What You’ve Become
6) Kill Me
7) Nothing Left To See Here Anymore
8) Desperation
9) Criminal
10) Against The World
11) Alone
12) Wish You Well
13) The Day I Tried To Live
14) Dying To Live (Jake Bowen Remix)
15) Kill Me (Richard Wicander Remix)
16) What You’ve Become (Justin deBlieck Remix)
17) All I Really Know
18) What You Are

Clive Barker talks about Hulu’s Books of Blood, Candyman and Hellraiser

Clive Barker is an English playwright, novelist, film director, and visual artist. Barker came to prominence in the mid-1980s with a series of short stories, the Books of Blood, which established him as a leading horror writer. He has since written many novels and other works, and his fiction has been adapted into films, notably the Hellraiser and Candyman series.

On October 7th, 2020, Hulu is premiering the new horror anthology film, BOOKS OF BLOOD, which takes audiences on a journey into uncharted and forbidden territory through three uncanny tales tangled in space and time.

Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Clive about the new movie and how 2021 will be the year of Clive Barker with his upcoming books and the new Candyman film being released.

SEVENDUST RELEASE LYRIC VIDEO FOR “BLOOD FROM A STONE” – THE FIRST ORGINAL TRACK FROM UPCOMING ALBUM

BLOOD & STONEhttps://youtu.be/7f-ljyfb4yg
Band’s 13thStudio Album Scheduled for Release on October 23rd

Now Available for Pre-Order at https://RiseRecords.lnk.to/BloodAndStone
On the heels of the current single “The Day I Tried To Live” moving up the radio charts (currently #16 on Mediabase Active Rock chart), heavy metal legends Sevendust are releasing the first original song from their upcoming album Blood & Stone.

“Blood From A Stone” is quintessential Sevendust filled with driving riffs from guitarists Clint Lowery and John Connolly, pulsating rhythms from bassist Vince Hornsby and drummer Morgan Rose, and captivating vocals delivered as only Lajon Witherspoon can.  

A lyric video for the song was created by Wayne Joyner (known for his work with Dream Theater) who also did the video for “The Day I Tried To Live.” The lyric video for “Blood From A Stone” can be seen here: https://youtu.be/7f-ljyfb4yg

“Blood From A Stone was inspired by the endurance and threshold of our band, the wins and the losses, the good and bad years. That we have more to give, more to say and we pull that out of each other,” explains Clint Lowery.

Blood & Stone, the band’s 13th studio album, is scheduled for release on October 23rd via Rise Records (the second for the band on the label). The latest release also marks a return for the band with producer Michael “Elvis” Baskette, known for his work with Alter Bridge; Tremonti; Slash; and others. Blood & Stone is available for pre-order in various configurations at https://RiseRecords.lnk.to/BloodAndStone
The track listing for Blood & Stone is:
1)     Dying To Live
2)     Love
3)     Blood From A Stone
4)     Feel Like Going On
5)     What You’ve Become
6)     Kill Me
7)     Nothing Left To See Here Anymore
8)     Desperation
9)      Criminal
10)     Against The World
11)     Alone
12)     Wish You Well
13)     The Day I Tried To Live

In 1994, Sevendust first forged a familial tie amongst each other that translated into one of the most diehard audiences in the game. To this day, the connection between fans and the GRAMMY® Award-nominated gold-certified hard rock outfit only grows stronger. A trifecta of now-classic gold albums—Sevendust [1997], Home [1999], and Animosity [2001]— ignited their journey. Known as an equally intense and unforgettable live force, they’ve consistently packed houses around the world and decimated stages everywhere from Rock on the Range and Woodstock to OZZfest and Shiprocked! 2015’s Kill The Flaw represented a high watermark. Bowing at #13 on the Billboard Top 200, it scored their highest debut on the respective chart since 2010 and marked their fifth consecutive Top 10 on the Top Rock Albums Chart and third straight Top 3 on the Hard Rock Albums Chart. Most impressively, the lead single “Thank You” garnered a nomination in the category of “Best Metal Performance” at the 2016 GRAMMY® Awards, a career first. All I See Is War continued the band’s success debuting at #28 on the Billboard 200 and has become a favorite among critics and fans alike thanks to singles like “Dirty,” “Medicated” and “Risen.” 

Website: www.sevendust.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sevendustofficial

Twitter: @Sevendust 

SEVENDUST ANNOUNCE LUCKY ALBUM #13 BLOOD & STONE SCHEDULED FOR RELEASE ON OCTOBER 23rd

New Album Now Available for Pre-Order at https://RiseRecords.lnk.to/BloodAndStone

On the heels of the current single “The Day I Tried To Live” moving up the radio charts, heavy metal legends Sevendust are announcing their 13th studio album Blood & Stone. The new album is scheduled for release on October 23rd via Rise Records (the second for the band on the label). The latest release also marks a return for the band with producer Michael “Elvis” Baskette, known for his work with Alter Bridge; Tremonti; Slash; and others. Blood & Stone is available for pre-order in various configurations at https://RiseRecords.lnk.to/BloodAndStone

From the pulsating intro of album opener “Dying To Live” to the now popular album closer “The Day I Tried To Live,” Sevendust continue to push the sound they have made their own for more than 25 years. Tracks like “Love,” “Blood From A Stone,” “Kill Me” and “Against The World” showcases why the band has been adored by fans and critics alike. Lajon Witherspoon, Clint Lowery, John Connolly, Vince Hornsby and Morgan Rose have raised the bar with Blood & Stone. The new music fits perfectly alongside with the bands most seminal tracks that have become the cornerstone of the band’s live performances.

The track listing for Blood & Stone is:
1) Dying To Live
2) Love
3) Blood From A Stone
4) Feel Like Going On
5) What You’ve Become
6) Kill Me
7) Nothing Left To See Here Anymore
8) Desperation
9) Criminal
10) Against The World
11) Alone
12) Wish You Well
13) The Day I Tried To Live
Recently, Sevendust impacted rock radio and unveiled a lyric video for their cover of the Soundgarden classic “The Day I Tried To Live.” The song is currently moving up the charts and the reaction to the track has been overwhelmingly favorable to the unique interpretation the band put on the classic track. The lyric video for the song was created by Wayne Joyner (known for his work with Dream Theater). It features a lone figure walking down a road thinking about his life with clips of the band woven throughout.

The video can be seen here: https://youtu.be/YhUUO_S4bpA.

In 1994, Sevendust first forged a familial tie amongst each other that translated into one of the most diehard audiences in the game. To this day, the connection between fans and the GRAMMY® Award-nominated gold-certified hard rock outfit only grows stronger. A trifecta of now-classic gold albums—Sevendust [1997], Home [1999], and Animosity [2001]— ignited their journey.

Known as an equally intense and unforgettable live force, they’ve consistently packed houses around the world and decimated stages everywhere from Rock on the Range and Woodstock to OZZfest and Shiprocked! 2015’s Kill The Flaw represented a high watermark. Bowing at #13 on the Billboard Top 200, it scored their highest debut on the respective chart since 2010 and marked their fifth consecutive Top 10 on the Top Rock Albums Chart and third straight Top 3 on the Hard Rock Albums Chart. Most impressively, the lead single “Thank You” garnered a nomination in the category of “Best Metal Performance” at the 2016 GRAMMY® Awards, a career first. All I See Is War continued the band’s success debuting at #28 on the Billboard 200 and has become a favorite among critics and fans alike thanks to singles like “Dirty,” “Medicated” and “Risen.” 

Win A “RAMBO: Last Blood” Prize Pack

Here’s some trivia for you. In the novel “First Blood,” John Rambo dies. And he was scheduled to die when the film version was made. However, star Sylvester Stallone argued that the character should live. Both endings were filmed, with Stallone’s request being honored. Good thing too, or else we wouldn’t be able to give (3) lucky readers the chance to win a “RAMBO: Last Blood” prize package, which includes a pass for (2) to see the new film, a t-shirt and a bandanna.

All you have to do is let us know below which John Rambo adventure was your favorite. (3) random entries will be selected and the winners will be notified by email. This contest runs through Thursday, September 19 at 6:00 pm CST. Good luck!

Don’t forget that Wednesday, September 18 has been designated as RAMBO Day!

#RAMBO

@ Rambomovie

 

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Album Review: GWAR “The Blood of Gods”

“The Blood of Gods”
GWAR
Metal Blade Records
Producer: Ronan Chris Murphy
Tracks: 12

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

The story of GWAR is one that has been carved across the history of this barren and hopeless planet and continues on with the group’s latest offering “The Blood of Gods”. The bands 14th studio album is nothing less than a sacred text chronicling the rise of humanity against their makers, and the massive battle between GWAR and the forces of all that is uptight and wrong with the world. Over the course of the albums 12 tracks the band challenges the sins of their great mistake, from politics, pollution, and organized religion, to fast food, and factory farming. Humans are shown as what they are; a parasitical disease that must be eradicated before they suck the planet dry. “The Blood of Gods” is a sonic scar…a question asked and answered…Death cannot kill GWAR!

With the passing of GWAR front man Dave Brockie aka Oderus Urungus in 2014 many a bohabs questioned the future of the band. Thankfully the band forged on with the addition of former bassist Michael Bishop stepping up to the mic in the form of Blothar the Berserker. Though the transition caused some to start the #BlotharRuinedGwar movement the band took everything in stride allowing three years to pass before giving fans a true taste of the newly helmed GWAR. “The Blood of Gods” is a fresh take on an old favorite that will undoubtedly have some bohabs up in arms. The twelve track offering from the costume clad space aliens is made up of a variety of styles ranging from the Slayer esque “Auroch” to the catchy “I’ll Be Your Monster” (think early Motorhead). Other notable tracks include the Michael Derks (Balsac) penned “Fuck This Place” and in my opinion one of the best GWAR tracks to come out in the last fifteen years “Phantom Limb”, a haunting tribute to the bands fallen leader which details the bands doubts and insecurities while trying to satisfy a looming presence.

“The Blood of Gods” is a fresh and fitting entry into the GWAR mythos that showcases the determination of a band and its members to move past events that would end lesser groups. I will save all the “This doesn’t sound like Oderus” listeners the trouble as No! This does NOT sound like Oderus and that is ok because it’s not nor is it trying to. Each track on “The Blood of Gods” is a blending of styles which cement a new foundation for GWAR as they continue forward on their quest. Over the course of the albums twelve tracks listeners get a variety of new material which is sprinkled with familiarity making for a really an enjoyable listen.

Track Listing:
1.) War on Gwar
2.) Viking Death Machine
3.) El Presidente
4.) I’ll Be Your Monster
5.) Auroch
6.) Swarm
7.) The Sordid Soliloquy of Sawborg Destructo
8.) Death to Dickie Duncan
9.) Crushed By the Cross
10.) Fuck This Place
11.) Phantom Limb
12.) If You Want Blood (You Got It) **AC/DC Cover**

Gwar Announces Full Details of New Album “The Blood of Gods”

GWAR Announces Full Details Of New Album “The Blood of Gods”
First Song Streaming; Pre-orders Available Now

The time has come, your Lords and Masters GWAR have unveiled the details of their latest masterpiece “The Blood of Gods”. Today the first single “Fuck This Place” is available for audio and video streaming. Watch the video, check out the song and pre-order your copy of “The Blood of Gods” at metalblade.com/gwar! Your Intergalactic Overlords demand it! Digital pre-orders include an instant gratification download of “Fuck This Place”. Limited edition special bundle packs are available for pre-order as well.

“The Blood of Gods”, produced, recorded, mixed and mastered by Ronan Chris “Lord God” Murphy, will be released October 20th via Metal Blade Records. The album will be available in Standard CD, 2LP Colored Vinyl and Digital formats.

“The Blood of Gods Track Listing:
1. War on GWAR
2. Viking Death Machine
3. El Presidente
4. I’ll Be Your Monster
5. Auroch
6. Swarm
7. The Sordid Soliloquy Of Sawborg Destructo
8. Death to Dickie Duncan
9. Crushed By The Cross
10. Fuck This Place
11. Phantom Limb
12. If You Want Blood (You Got It) – AC/DC Cover

The Berserker Blothar says:
“Fuck This Place,” the name says it all. Look around you. Your life sucks. Your planet is dying. You want to kill yourself and everyone you meet. So do it. You’ve drenched yourselves in gasoline, and now GWAR offers you a light. The finish line of the human race is at last within reach. Scream it now at the top of your lungs…”Fuck This Place!”

“The Blood of Gods” is nothing less than a sacred text chronicling the rise of humanity against their makers, and the massive battle between GWAR and the forces of all that is uptight and wrong with the world. Along the way, the band challenges the sins of their great mistake, from politics, pollution, and organized religion, to fast food, and factory farming. Humans are shown as what they are; a parasitic disease that must be eradicated before they suck the planet dry.

Sleazy P. Martini comments on “The Blood of Gods”:
“Sorry scoffers, you thought GWAR was finished? You’re the one who’s finished when GWAR starts their fall tour after dropping their heaviest album yet. “The Blood of the Gods” will be the soundtrack that covers up your pathetic cries for mercy. So go ahead and scream all you want. Just make sure your in key or your death will be excruciating beyond comprehension.”

In support of “The Blood of Gods” release GWAR will be on the road throughout the rest of 2017 including three shows in September with a stop at Chicago’s Riot Fest. GWAR will then return to the road On October 20th, the release date of “The Blood of Gods.” The first show on “The Blood of Gods Tour” is in their adopted home base of Richmond, Virginia and will run through December 10th in Detroit, MI. A complete list of “The Blood of Gods Tour” dates including an NYC appearance on Halloween can be found below. Support on the tour will come be provided by Ghoul, Doyle(10/20-11/5), He Is Legend (11/7-12/10) and U.S. Bastards.

GWAR On Tour:
9/15: Knoxville, TN @ The International
9/16: Middletown, OH @ Land of Illusion
9/17: Chicago, IL @ Riot Fest

GWAR W/Ghoul, Doyle and U.S. Bastards:
10/20: Richmond, VA @ The National
10/21: Cleveland, OH @ Agora Ballroom
10/22: Toronto, ON @ Opera House* (No Doyle)
10/23: Millvale, PA @ Mr. Smalls
10/25: Greensboro, NC @ Arizona Petes
10/26: Baltimore, MD @ Rams Head Live
10/27: New Haven, CT @ Toad’s Place
10/28: Worcester, MA @ Palladium
10/29: Philadelphia, PA @ Trocadero
10/31: New York, NY @ Irving Plaza
11/1: Buffalo, NY @ Town Ballroom
11/2: Louisville, KY @ Mercury Ballroom* (Stonecutters Open)
11/3: St. Louis, MO @ Pop’s
11/4: Sioux City, IA @ Hard Rock
11/5: Lawrence, KS @ Granada

GWAR W/Ghoul, He Is Legend and U.S. Bastards
11/7: Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
11/8: Winnipeg, MB @ Pyramid
11/9: Saskatoon, SK @ Saskatoon Events Center
11/10: Edmonton, AB @ Union Hall
11/11: Calgary, AB @ The Palaces
11/13: Vancouver, BC @ Commodore
11/14: Portland, OR @ Roseland
11/15: Seattle, WA @ Showbox SoDo
11/17: Santa Cruz, CA @ The Catalyst
11/18: Las Vegas, NV @ Fremont Country Club
11/19: Sacramento, CA @ Ace of Spades
11/21: San Diego, CA @ House of Blues
11/22: Los Angeles, CA @ Fonda Theater
11/23: Tempe, AZ @ Marquee Theater
11/24: Albuquerque, NM @ Sunshine Theater
11/25: Denver, CO @ Summit Music Hall
11/26: Lincoln, NE @ Bourbon Theatre
11/28: Tulsa, OK @ Cain’s Ballroom
11/29: Dallas, TX @ Gas Monkey Live
11/30: Houston, TX @ House of Blues
12/1: San Antonio, TX @ Aztec Theater
12/2: Baton Rouge, LA @ Varsity Theater
12/3: Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade
12/5: Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Revolution
12/6: Tampa, FL @ The Ritz
12/8: Indianapolis, IN @ The Vogue
12/9: Peoria, IL @ Limelight
12/10: Detroit, MI @ St. Andrews Hall

For More Info Visit:
http://www.gwar.net

GWAR Announces North American Tour and New Album “The Blood of Gods”

GWAR Announces North American Fall Tour
New Album “The Blood of Gods” Out October 20th via Metal Blade Records

On October 20th, GWAR will release a new studio album entitled “The Blood of Gods” via Metal Blade Records. In support of the new album, your Lords and Masters will leave their arctic slumber and return to the road to cause aural (and anal) devastation across North America. Joining in the chaos will be Ghoul, Doyle(10/20-11/5), He Is Legend (11/7-12/10) and U.S. Bastards. The tour kicks off in Richmond, VA on October 20th and runs through December 10th in Detroit, MI. The tour includes a stop in New York City on Halloween as well! A complete list of dates can be found below.

Don’t miss your chance to pleadge allegiance to GWAR each night when they pillage your town. Head to http://www.gwarvip.com to take part in “The Lords and Masters VIP Experience”.

The Lords and Masters VIP Experience Includes:
•One (1) General Admission Ticket with Venue Early Entry (potentially guest list)
•Exclusive access to GWAR soundcheck where you will pledge allegiance to your Lords & Masters!
•Invitation to play a GWAR instrument onstage at soundcheck
•Tour of the weapons of your Lords & Masters
•Crowd Free Merch Access
•One (1) Souvenir item signed by members of GWAR
•One (1) Souvenir GWAR laminate
•Photo opportunity with GWAR before the show
•You will be killed by GWAR on stage during the show.
•Designated Slave Pit Area to pledge your allegiance before you are killed on stage by GWAR!

There are only 5 VIP TICKETS available per show, that’s it so don’t wait.

General admission tickets and VIP Packages go on sale to the public this Friday August 18th at 10:00 AM Eastern.

Concerning the album; “The Blood of Gods” is nothing less than a sacred text chronicling the rise of humanity against their makers, and the massive battle between GWAR and the forces of all that is uptight and wrong with the world. Along the way, the band challenges the sins of their great mistake, from politics, pollution, and organized religion, to fast food, and factory farming. Humans are shown as what they are; a parasitic disease that must be eradicated before they suck the planet dry. Meanwhile, Sleazy P. Martini, the crooked entrepreneur who discovered the Scumdogs, and has always envisioned them as a sort of horrific boy band, finally managed to convince the group to write a hit song called “I’ll Be Your Monster.” If all goes according to plan, it may be just stupid enough to work!

GWAR:
9/15: Knoxville, TN @ The International
9/16: Middletown, OH @ Land of Illusion
9/17: Chicago, IL @ Riot Fest

GWAR W/Ghoul, Doyle and U.S. Bastards:
10/20: Richmond, VA @ The National
10/21: Cleveland, OH @ Agora Ballroom
10/22: Toronto, ON @ Opera House* (No Doyle)
10/23: Millvale, PA @ Mr. Smalls
10/25: Greensboro, NC @ Arizona Petes
10/26: Baltimore, MD @ Rams Head Live
10/27: New Haven, CT @ Toad’s Place
10/28: Worcester, MA @ Palladium
10/29: Philadelphia, PA @ Trocadero
10/31: New York, NY @ Irving Plaza
11/1: Buffalo, NY @ Town Ballroom
11/2: Louisville, KY @ Mercury Ballroom* (Stonecutters Open)
11/3: St. Louis, MO @ Pop’s
11/4: Sioux City, IA @ Hard Rock
11/5: Lawrence, KS @ Granada

GWAR W/Ghoul, He Is Legend and U.S. Bastards
11/7: Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
11/8: Winnipeg, MB @ Pyramid
11/9: Saskatoon, SK @ Saskatoon Events Center
11/10: Edmonton, AB @ Union Hall
11/11: Calgary, AB @ The Palaces
11/13: Vancouver, BC @ Commodore
11/14: Portland, OR @ Roseland
11/15: Seattle, WA @ Showbox SoDo
11/17: Santa Cruz, CA @ The Catalyst
11/18: Las Vegas, NV @ Fremont Country Club
11/19: Sacramento, CA @ Ace of Spades
11/21: San Diego, CA @ House of Blues
11/22: Los Angeles, CA @ Fonda Theater
11/23: Tempe, AZ @ Marquee Theater
11/24: Albuquerque, NM @ Sunshine Theater
11/25: Denver, CO @ Summit Music Hall
11/26: Lincoln, NE @ Bourbon Theatre
11/28: Tulsa, OK @ Cain’s Ballroom
11/29: Dallas, TX @ Gas Monkey Live
11/30: Houston, TX @ House of Blues
12/1: San Antonio, TX @ Aztec Theater
12/2: Baton Rouge, LA @ Varsity Theater
12/3: Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade
12/5: Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Revolution
12/6: Tampa, FL @ The Ritz
12/8: Indianapolis, IN @ The Vogue
12/9: Peoria, IL @ Limelight
12/10: Detroit, MI @ St. Andrews Hall

For More Info Visit: http://www.gwar.net

CD Review: Royal Blood “How Did We Get So Dark”

“How Did We Get So Dark”
Royal Blood
Warner Bros.
Tracks: 10

Our score: 2 out of 5 stars

The UK Duo Royal Blood are back with their sophomore release via Warner Bros. Records titled “How Did We Get So Dark”. As the follow up to the bands successful 2010 release “Royal Blood”, the new album features 10 fresh tracks which were produce by the band along with Tom Dalgety and Jolyon Thomas.

Having caught Royal Blood when they opened for the Foo Fighters on their “Sonic Highways” tour I was instantly amazed at the sizeable sound these two guys were able produce. Needless to say I was instantly hooked. The band’s latest offering “How Did We Get So Dark” is a bit of a departure from the group’s self-titled release as I found it lacking the punch and grittiness of its predecessor. Tracks like “How Did We Get So Dark” and “Hole On Your Heart” feature much more robust instrumentation and production which I felt took away from the group’s signature bass, drums sound scape. Thankfully tracks such as “Where Are You Now” and “Hook, Line & Sinker” brought back some of the sound that originally appealed to me.

Though not an outright bad album “How Did We Get So Dark” is not what I consider a good album either. I applaud the band for stretching their legs while trying to expand on the limited possibilities of a two member group however, I think they may have strayed a touch too far from the signature sound that put them on the map making their latest offering one I just couldn’t get in to.

Track Listing:
1.) How Did We Get So Dark
2.) Lights Out
3.) I Only Lie When I Love
4.) She’s Creeping
5.) Look Like You Know
6.) Where Are You Now
7.) Don’t Tell
8.) Hook, Line & Sinker
9.) Hole In Your Heart
10.) Sleep

CD Review: Royal Blood “Royal Blood”

Royal Blood
“Royal Blood”
Warner Bros.
Produced by: Tom Dalgety, Mike Kerr, Ben Thatcher
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

The self titled debut release by the UK based duo Royal Blood is an album you have to check out. When a traditional 4/5 piece band can make sounds as unique as those heard on “Royal Blood” that’s fairly impressive however knowing that Royal Blood consists of just two members  vocalist/bassist Mike Kerr and drummer Ben Thatcher that changes things dramatically.

The debut album is a carefully constructed wall of sonic noise that keeps the listeners attention throughout each of its 10 tracks. Songs like the albums opener “Out of the Black” and the raunchy “Figure It Out” tear through your speakers will ease as Kerr’s gritty bass sounds cover the ground quickly making you second guess the need for guitars at all. Combined with Thatcher’s spot on timing and ability to play in the pocket each performance comes off polished and professional. The duo only further confirm this with such tracks as the robotic like “Ten Tonne Skeleton” and the in your face “Come On Over

Though I found the album didn’t quite capture all the power of the groups live element it certainly comes pretty close. With each track on “Royal Blood” having a little something for everyone it makes this a great addition to any music lover’s playlist

Track Listing:
Out of the Black
Come On Over
Figure It Out
You Can Be So Cruel
Blood Hands
Little Monster
Loose Change
Careless
Ten Tonne Skeleton
Better Strangers

CD Review: Exodus “Blood In Blood Out”

Exodus
“Blood In Blood Out”
Nuclear Blast
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Blood In Blood Out” is the newest release from bay area thrash legends Exodus. This is the bands 10th studio release and, the first to feature Steve “Zetro” Souza since 2004. The album is being released via Nuclear Blast records and features 11 ear splitting tracks that harkens back to the early 80’s when thrash metal reigned supreme.

Right from the start “Blood In Blood Out” commands your attention as it the track “Black 13” kicks off the album with a thunderous kick drum and eerie overdubs flanked by building guitars riffs that build in to a full on ripping symphony helmed by newly rejoined front man Steve “Zetro” Souza. As the album progresses through tracks like “Blood In Blood Out” and “Collateral Damage” it’s clearly a riff driven album that is unrelenting in its approach. A perfect example of this is the track “Salt The Wound” which features former Exodus guitarist and long time Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett who lays down his signature styling’s along side Gary Holt and the rest of his former band mates making this track a must listen. The assault continues as you move through tracks like “Wrapped In The Arms of Rage” and “Honor Killings” both of which had me turning the volume up louder as the tracks progressed.

Even though I found some of the lyrical subject matter to be a bit over the top I still enjoyed the album as a whole. All of the musical arrangements were perfectly executed and well thought out as each track kept me on edge due to the sheer power and presentation of all 11 tracks. The overall mix of the album wasn’t too bad however I felt a little more bass guitar could have been brought in the really round out each number. Exodus fan or not the album is worth giving a listen.

Track Listing:
1.) Black 13
2.) Blood In Blood Out
3.) Collateral Damage
4.) Salt The Wound
5.) Body Harvest
6.) BTK
7.) Wrapped In The Arms of Rage
8.) My Last Nerve
9.) Numb
10.) Honor Killings
11.) Food For The Worms

Blu-ray Review “Pumpkinhead II: Blood Wings”

Starring: Andrew Robinson, Ami Dolenz, Soleil Moon Frye, J. Trevor Edmond, Hill Harper, Alexander Polinsky
Director: Jeff Burr
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: November 18, 2014
Run Time: 86 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

With what the legendary Stan Winston created with “Pumpkinhead”, that gold is continued with “Pumpkinhead II: Blood Wings”. This film is a great follow up to the original. It also has a great cast including Amy Dolenz (“Witchboard 2”, “Ticks”), Andrew Robinson (“Hellraiser”), Soleil Moon Frye (‘Punky Brewster”), Hill Harper (“CSI: NY”), J. Trevor Edmond (“Lord of Illusions”), Linnea Quigley (“Return of the Living Dead”) and Kane Hodder (“Hatchet”). Scream Factory also released the first “Pumpkinhead” on Blu-ray a few months ago. Let’s hope they stop at this sequel and leave the next two sequels in obvilion where they belong. This film has non-stop gore and great practical effects. A most for any horror fan.

Official Premise: When five teenagers unwittingly resurrect a demon, nobody is safe from the hideous creature’s gruesome rampage. But this monster is different – inside it dwells the soul of a boy murdered years ago. Can the evil beast be destroyed…without killing the innocent boy trapped within?

Scream Factory delivered “Pumpkinhead II: Blood Wings” with a solid 1080p transfer. The film looks great and shines with the films creature effects. The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 also delivers with the action and epic score. The special features are good but nothing amazing. There is featurette called “Re-Creating The Beast”, which features new interviews with special effects artists Greg Nicotero, Gino Crognale and actor Mark McCraken (Pumpkinhead). There is also “Making Movies”, which is an interview with director Jeff Burr. The special features were all suppose to include a new audio Commentary with director Jeff Burr and some Behind-the-scenes footage but that is nowhere to be found.

Blu-ray Review “Hell of the Living Dead/Rats: Night of Terror (Blood Soaked-Double Feature)”

Actors: Margit Evelyn Newton, Franco Garofalo, Ottaviano Dell’Acqua, Geretta Geretta
Directors: Bruno Mattei, Claudio Fragasso
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Blue Underground
DVD Release Date: August 26, 2014
Run Time: 198 minutes

“Hell of the Living Dead”: 4 out of 5 stars
“Rats: Night of Terror”: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

When I see an announcement from Blue Underground, I can’t help but get excited since they always find a way to release some crazy cult classics that I loved growing up. Case in point, their new ‘Blood-Soaked Double Feature’ Blu-ray, which includes both “Hell of the Living Dead” and “Rats: Night of Terror”. These are great Italian horror films that deserve a great release. I remember the first time I rented these on VHS and was drawn in by their fantastic boxes when I walked down the horror isle. So these were a great trip down memory lane.

Both of these films are directed by the legendary Italian director Bruno Mattei, who is also known for “Emmanuelle in Prison” and “SS Extermination Love Camp”. When you think of ’80s Italian shockers, these are always two that come to my mind. They are jam-packed with over-the-top gore, twist endings, humor and still hold up today. It’s been a while since I have seen these films but they are still just as fun and shocking.

Official Premise “Hell of the Living Dead”: An accident at a chemical plant unleashed a horrific virus, and an elite SWAT team is sent to New Guinea to investigate. But when they arrive on the hellish island, they discover a plague of flesh-eating zombies as well as a beautiful female reporter who practices nude anthropology. Can the commandos survive this cannibal rampage, uncover a shocking government secret and still find time for occasional cross-dressing before the ravenous hordes of the living dead infect the entire world?

Official Premise “Rats: Night of Terror”: In the year 225 A.B. (After the Bomb), a group of post-apocalyptic bikers discover an abandoned research laboratory filled with food, water…and thousands of rats. But these are no ordinary vermin; these are super-intelligent mutant rodents with a ravenous appetite for human flesh. Can a bunch of heavily armed but not-too-bright human scavengers survive a night of terror against the most hungry and horrific predators on earth?

Blue Underground didn’t just throw these on Blu-ray, they really delivered them with some extra love. These were both given brand-new high definition transfers from their original uncut and uncensored negatives. These films have never look better personally. Blue Underground could have just dropped these on a disc and called it a day but instead, they really make sure they were giving a solid release to the fans. These films also come with solid DTS-HD Master Audio Mono tracks, both films sound great. So if you are a horror fan, these are a must.

In terms of special features, there is some decent content. There is a newly-produced documentary called “Bonded By Blood”, which includes interviews with Co-Writer/Co-Director Claudio Fragasso and Stars Margit Evelyn Newton, Ottaviano Dell’Acqua & Massimo Vanni. There is also an interview with Director Bruno Mattei in the extras “Hell Rats Of The Living Dead”. Other than that there are some Theatrical Trailers and Poster & Still Galleries included here.

Win a Blu-ray of gritty crime drama, “Blood Ties” [ENDED]

To celebrate the Blu-ray release of “Blood Ties”, Media Mikes is excited to giveaway one (1) copy of the Blu-ray to our readers. If you would like to enter for your chance to win one of this prize, please leave us a comment below or send us an email with your favorite crime drama. This giveaway will remain open until July 4th at Noon, Eastern Time. This is open to our readers in US and Canada only. One entry per person, per household. All other entries will be considered invalid. Media Mikes will randomly select winners. Winners will be alerted via email.

Blood Ties begins when Chris (Owen) is released from prison. Reluctantly waiting for him on the outside is his younger brother Frank (Crudup), a cop with an aspiring future. After trying to stay on the straight path without any success, Chris inevitably descends back into a life of crime and puts Frank in a tough predicament. Does he cover for his brother and salvage the only family he has? Or does he do the right thing and risk destroying everything he loves?

Kelly Kilgore talks about her new film “Blood Widow”

A throwback to ‘80s slasher films like Friday the 13th, Blood Widow tells of a couple, Hugh and Laurie, who after buying a nice house in the country throw a party for their friends. During the wild night a few friends decide to explore the abandoned and decaying boarding school next door, only to wake an emotionally broken killer: The Blood Widow. We speak to one of the film’s stars, Kelly Kilgore.

We asked for you, of the cast, because you have such an interesting, albeit brief, arc in the film. How fun was it playing this role?
I had a blast with Harmony! Playing a supporting character actually allows you a lot of freedom to have fun and make interesting choices, and Jeremy was extremely receptive to his actors’ ideas. Having an innocent character like Harmony in a slasher film is rare, and I loved the way it worked out. After shooting was over, the Arcani guys presented me with Mister Buddha (Harmony’s teddy bear) as a keepsake; he may or may not be sitting on a bookshelf in my living room right now.

I see you do a lot of theatre, and other more – for lack of a better word – ‘thespy’ work. Was doing Blood Widow a chance to let your hair done and do something totally unexpected?
It was. Although Blood Widow is a very scary film, Harmony herself is light and funny. That sort of subtle comedy was a new challenge for me, and I enjoyed it immensely. It was also my first feature, and I learned a lot about how a film set works. It’s quite different than theatre. I made a lot of friends within the cast and crew; Emily and I hang out all the time, I see Jose a lot, and I randomly ran into Derek and Phil the other night at a bar.

What do you find more rewarding – stage work or film work? I imagine they’re both totally different types of experiences.
Theatre and film are hugely different, and I love them both. In my life, at least, they compliment one another, each strengthening skills that improve my work in the other medium. Theatre, especially classical theatre, gives you a solid grounding in technique. Doing the same show night after night really strengthens core acting skills and the ability to perform under all conditions. Film, on the other hand, keeps you honest–you can’t cheat in a closeup! I’m extremely lucky to be doing both.

Are there moments, when working on a horror film like this, that you’ve got to try and prevent yourself from bursting into laughter or accidentally smiling. The ridiculousness of the genre would take great discipline I imagine?
Working on any project, there are moments of hilarity that you have to breathe through and try not to laugh. But that’s what makes it fun! If everyone was actually terrified the whole time, no one would want to make horror films. Harmony was especially funny because she’s extremely spacey. I recall shooting one scene with Jose where I examined his camera … I did my level best to make him laugh, and we both cracked up after “cut” was called every time.

As terrifying as she is, the Blood Widow character is also somewhat of a sad character. What do you think?
I totally agree, and I think that is one thing that Ian and Chad did brilliantly with the script, making Blood Widow stand out in the genre. Even though you don’t want to be anywhere near the Blood Widow, you can understand how she came to be the way she is. You even feel a little sorry for her. I like to think that she and Harmony could have been friends.

For those that enjoy your work in the film, where else can they see you?
If you fancy a trip to Massachusetts, I’ll be playing Lady Percy and Doll Tearsheet in Henry IV, Parts I & II at Shakespeare & Company in August. I’ve also got a couple of other film projects airing this summer: The Aegeans comes out June 16 (of Ulysses fame), and the pilot for Spaceship Florida should be online sometime in mid-July. Links to everything at actor.kellykilgore.com.

Blood Widow hits DVD June 3rd