Category Archives: Music

Album Review: Blood Lightning ‘Blood Lightning’ (heavy metal)

Join Pete Pardo for a review of the delf-titled debut album from Boston based metal act Blood Lightning.

Speaking of heavy metal…

The 1980s was a golden era for heavy metal, birthing many iconic albums. Here’s a list of ten influential albums from that decade:

  1. Metallica – “Master of Puppets” (1986): A defining album not just for Metallica but for the entire thrash metal genre.
  2. Iron Maiden – “The Number of the Beast” (1982): This album propelled Iron Maiden into international stardom with its powerful anthems.
  3. Judas Priest – “British Steel” (1980): Known for its iconic tracks like “Breaking the Law” and “Living After Midnight,” it’s a classic of the era.
  4. Slayer – “Reign in Blood” (1986): An intense and aggressive record that solidified Slayer as one of the founding bands of extreme metal.
  5. Black Sabbath – “Heaven and Hell” (1980): With the addition of Ronnie James Dio, Black Sabbath crafted an album that reinvigorated their sound.
  6. Motörhead – “Ace of Spades” (1980): A high-octane, fast-paced record that epitomizes Motörhead’s unique brand of heavy metal.
  7. Megadeth – “Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying?” (1986): Featuring complex riffs and politically charged lyrics, it’s a cornerstone of thrash metal.
  8. Dio – “Holy Diver” (1983): Ronnie James Dio’s debut solo album that became an instant classic with its powerful vocals and memorable songs.
  9. Ozzy Osbourne – “Blizzard of Ozz” (1980): Ozzy’s first solo release, showcasing Randy Rhoads’ exceptional guitar work.
  10. Anthrax – “Among the Living” (1987): An influential album in the thrash metal scene, characterized by fast-paced, aggressive tracks.

These albums not only defined the era but continue to influence and inspire heavy metal artists to this day.

DIAMANTE – 1987 (Official Video)

Official music video for ‘”1987″ by DIAMANTE

DIAMANTE is a powerhouse of raw energy and unapologetic rock charisma, fronted by the magnetic and fiercely talented vocalist Diamante Azzura. Hailing from Boston and raised in Los Angeles, this hard rock outfit combines infectious melodies with hard-hitting guitar riffs and anthemic choruses, creating a sonic landscape that fuses the rebellious spirit of punk with the unbridled energy of modern rock. Diamante’s distinctive vocals effortlessly shift from soulful croons to impassioned screams, injecting each song with a blend of vulnerability and unyielding strength. Their electrifying stage presence and lyrical depth draw audiences into a world where empowerment, heartache, and resilience collide, solidifying DIAMANTE as a rising force in the contemporary rock scene.

Smashing Pumpkins’ Billy Corgan Picks 11 Greatest Heavy-Metal Bands

You might not guess it listening to Smashing Pumpkins, but Billy Corgan is a serious metalhead. After all, he calls Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi “my hero.” Revolver recently sat down with Corgan to discuss his Top 11 picks for the greatest heavy-metal bands of all time, and he dug deep, spotlighting everyone from Pantera and Slayer to Mercyful Fate and Rainbow, sharing stories and insights along the way. Watch above.

The Smashing Pumpkins are an influential American rock band that emerged in the late 1980s and achieved widespread acclaim in the 1990s. Led by singer-songwriter and guitarist Billy Corgan, the band’s distinctive sound combines elements of alternative rock, grunge, and shoegaze, characterized by Corgan’s emotive vocals and intricate guitar work. Their music often explores themes of introspection, melancholy, and societal disillusionment. The band’s breakthrough album, “Siamese Dream,” released in 1993, solidified their status as a major force in the alternative music scene. Known for their ambitious and ambitious sonic landscapes, The Smashing Pumpkins have produced a diverse discography that spans from aggressive, guitar-driven anthems to more experimental and ethereal compositions. Over the years, they’ve undergone lineup changes but have remained a seminal and enduring presence in the rock music landscape.

**WE’RE BACK!** Music Vinyl Pickups w/ Troy – 23 ALBUMS!! 🤘

Metal Jesus and Troy are BACK w/ a music vinyl PICKUPS video! We got rock, metal, jazz, pop, alternative and much more! 23 albums in total! Check it out!
MUSIC SHOWN:
Grindstone Vinyl Soundtrack
Dream Theater – Number of the Beast 2002
Voltage Periscope – Bearing Down on Me
Opeth – My Arms, Your Hearse
Kane Roberts – Kane Roberts
Reckless Love – Turborider
Poison – Open Up and Say Ahh!
Turnstile – Glow On
Alison Goldfrapp – The Love Invention
Jeff Beck – Blow by Blow
Lou Reed – I’m Waiting of the Man (DEMO)
Pink Floyd – Animals (5.1 Surround)
Arch Enemy – Deceivers
Live at KEXP Vol 10
Winger – Pull
Winger – Seven
Revolting Cocks – Linger Sicken’ Good
John Petrucci – Terminal Velocity
Rodriguez – Cold Fact
Cruachan – The Living and the Dead
Johnny Nails – Savor the Blood
Evile – Hell Unleashed
Evile – The Unknown

Vinyl records hold a timeless allure that transcends generations, captivating music enthusiasts with their unique appeal. One of the most compelling aspects is the warm, organic sound quality they offer. Unlike digital formats, vinyl reproduces music through analog technology, allowing for a rich, textured audio experience. The subtle imperfections, gentle pops, and warm undertones create a sense of intimacy and authenticity that digital recordings often struggle to replicate. This tactile nature of vinyl, where the needle physically interacts with the grooves, establishes a tangible connection between the listener and the music, fostering a more immersive and emotional experience.

Furthermore, vinyl records are cherished for their tangible presence and artistic value. The large, visually striking album artwork and meticulous packaging provide a sensory experience that digital files simply cannot match. Collecting vinyl fosters a sense of discovery and appreciation for the finer details of an artist’s work, from the layout of the album cover to the meticulous arrangement of tracks. Moreover, the act of flipping through record bins in a store or at a flea market fosters a sense of serendipity and connection with music history. Holding a vinyl record is like holding a piece of musical heritage, allowing listeners to engage with music in a way that transcends the ephemeral nature of streaming services. This tangible connection to music’s past and the sheer aesthetic pleasure of vinyl contribute to its enduring appeal.

Voltage Periscope – Bearing Down On Me (Troy Nelson of KEXP)

Voltage Periscope’s debut video “Bearing Down On Me”. Directed by Black Daisy Engineered and Produced by Erik Blood Written by Troy Nelson and Cody Hurd

A little bit about KEXP:

KEXP stands as an exceptional radio station that has captivated audiences worldwide with its unique blend of music discovery, community engagement, and unwavering commitment to independent artists. Renowned for its eclectic playlists and diverse range of genres, KEXP consistently introduces listeners to cutting-edge music that transcends mainstream boundaries. The station’s carefully curated playlists not only spotlight well-established artists but also champion emerging talents, giving them a platform to reach a broader audience. KEXP’s dedication to showcasing underrepresented voices and fostering a sense of musical exploration has cultivated a passionate global following, making it a hub for those seeking fresh and innovative sounds.

What truly sets KEXP apart is its strong emphasis on community and connection. With its home base in Seattle, the station actively engages with its local and global audience through live in-studio performances, interviews, and events. By bridging the gap between artists and listeners, KEXP creates a genuine and intimate environment that transcends traditional radio experiences. Its commitment to celebrating diversity, both in music and listeners, has turned KEXP into a cultural institution that fosters a sense of belonging and shared passion. In an era dominated by algorithmic playlists, KEXP’s human touch and genuine enthusiasm for music make it a beacon of authenticity and a driving force in shaping the future of radio.

Mary Spender: Why My Album Won’t Be On Spotify

Artists often voice concerns about Spotify’s payment structure, feeling that the platform does not adequately compensate them for their music. One of the main reasons for this sentiment is the low royalty rates that artists receive per stream. While Spotify pays a fraction of a cent for each play, this amount can be meager, especially for independent or lesser-known artists with smaller fan bases. Additionally, the massive volume of music available on the platform creates fierce competition, making it challenging for artists to stand out and accumulate significant streams. Critics argue that this model disproportionately benefits major labels and popular artists, widening the income gap within the music industry. Furthermore, the lack of transparency regarding how the streaming revenue is distributed adds to artists’ frustration, leaving them questioning the fairness of the system. Despite Spotify’s enormous user base and revenue, some artists believe that the platform should do more to ensure a more equitable distribution of payments, providing emerging talents with a viable income source and fostering a sustainable ecosystem for musicians of all levels.

Correction: I misspoke at the 3.45 mark – $0.003 isn’t .003 cents, but .003 dollars, or .3 of a cent. Likewise, $0.12 was meant to be 12 cents, not 0.12. Apologies – I’m a musician, not a mathematician.