Mad About Rock

Controversial British independent band WEAK13 are gearing up later this year to release their very anticipated debut studio album which fans of the band have waited years for but now a new previously unannounced single has been released on iTunes with a music video to accompany it that could raise the bar for unsigned bands. The three piece grunge industrial band is led by Singer and guitarist Nick J.Townsend with Neel Parmar on Drums, and Wesley Smith on Bass Guitar. They band pride themselves on breaking rules, surrealism and honest raw music and for doing so have been described as 'badass' (Kerrang) and just to prove how different and weird they can be, Andrew W.K. said this about them, 'If aliens tried to make rock music, it might sound like this'! This statement applies not only to their sound but their music videos, as you can probably guess by now they are not ones to shy away in the face of adversity..quite rerfreshingly! The band have been known for their...

Australian alternative rock four piece, Bellusira are a hot new band to look out for, having released their debut album June last year titled 'Connection' which received positive press and earned them international attention. The band have been busy since, as recently signed with Stephanie Christie Management and Publicity as well as being co-managed by veteran rocker Will Hunt (Evanescence/Device) and are currently touring in the US for the first time. There's lots happening for them right now, so I asked bass player, Mark Dalbeth about being signed, the album, touring and what is to come for the band.. Firstly what does Bellusira mean and how did you come up with the name? The name is a combination of two latin words which are Bellus (Beautiful) and Ira (Anger). Life is full of light and dark moments and that also comes through in our music. Our singer Crystal was the one that came up with the idea for the name. To those who hav...

Adam Havick from New York is a singer/songwriter who has been performing for almost a decade, inspired by the likes of Tom Petty, Elvis Costello and Billy Joel. This is Adam's fourth EP and along his musical endeavours found his band mates and musicans to work and help him to shape his unique and defining sound. The EP is boasting brilliant and witty artwork, that contains a warning of 'catchy tunes' and explains 'may have difficulty putting down' which only adds to the intrigue and charm before you have even listened.. Opening song, 'Let Me Let You' has an old bluesy feel with a modern edge and is charming and easy on the ears with smooth fun vocals. Although the arrangement is fairly simple its executed wonderfully. To add to the blues vibes it features a super slick impressive guitar solo by Douglas Charles Showalter which gives it more power as well as some great screamed vocals really embracing the genre and mood! 'Halfhearted Attempt...

     Check out the latest Stencil Magazine featuring loads of awesome interviews (see above!) and reviews - including my reviews of Architects, The Used, Taking Back Sunday, Comeback Kid, Polar & More Than Life!   Head to this link to check it all out: http://issuu.com/stencilmag/docs/issue24   Carina 

  Piano-based singer-songwriter, Adam Gilbert is back with his band mates Sean O'Flynn (Guitar), Matt Jaworski (Bass) and Brain Prokop (Drums) with the follow up to their first album, 'Fishing For Water' which achieved national airplay and positive press through their alternative rock/pop sound. Their return with sophomore album, 'A Generation of Forgotten Kings' shows a more serious nature and more musical exploration.. Opening and title track, 'A Generation of Forgotten Kings' has a big opening with chants sounding out which are well placed throughout adding to its power and giving an arena feel to it, aided by the structure of the dramatic instruments also and lyrics filled with a positive meaning of unified change. A striking first blow to kick things off! 'How Do We Respond' is an emotional one with high focus on Adam's vocals with largely complex piano work to accompany and lyrics that display doubt and confusion with the approp...

    It can be hard to find music that stands out from all the others within its own genre, but Gumshen from Seattle have got the right idea by entwining elements of various genres into one sound. Can you guess how they arrived at the title of ‘Progtronica’?… Opening song, ‘Bell Ringer’ has a positive upbeat sound largely made through the use of ambient synth sounds and energetic dance vibes. This one helps prepare us for the eclectic mix of genres to come! There are some nice tempo changes and variations throughout as the track progresses and demonstrates that the band know how to create a good musical arrangement.. ‘Stipulation’ is an easy listening song with a fun positive feel and has more appropriate and better fitted vocals here which compliment the tone and sound of the song moreso. Again they show good composition and musical arrangement.   ‘Fine One to Talk’ changes things up dramatically with an air of country and folk aided by complimentary ...

CalatrilloZ are a operatic metal/progressive rock quintet hailing from London. Indie Guru are working with them trying to get them more exposure – which is something this band certainly deserve as they have created their own inspiring creative sound which is enthralling, exciting and intriguing! Once you give them a listen you will succumb to their charm and awe.. To try and uncover the mysterious and ever intriguing enigmas that comprise the unique and adventurous act that is CalatrilloZ I questioned front man, Zahyin on their latest happenings and events.. For those who haven’t had the pleasure of listening to your music, how would you describe your sound?   Our sound is a storytelling blend of different styles under a Metal Umbrella. Maybe an operatic blend of Symphonic Metal and Progressive Rock. Its heavy, but very melodic, and the rhythm varies a lot. Everything works towards being epic and meaningful! What made you decide to come up with a concept for the band a...