When we were planning our end of the year recap, we had a full bag of ideas. However, the last thing we wanted to do was to use old content, simply because this is the formula that most media outlets use. Luckily, we were able to create exactly what we think you deserve. We truly believe that this is the best recap you will see when it comes to Heavy Metal in 2010.
Here at Horns Up Rocks we've been very lucky to be at the right place, at the right time. As a matter of fact, the majority of our content was gathered with a simple formula: connect with the artist, be honest with the artist, and never script the interviews. This is a skill we learned from the "Voice of Metal": Jose Mangin from Sirius XM Liquid Metal and MTV's Headbangers Ball!
And who better then Jose to tell you about the most important moments in Heavy Metal in 2010, the most important albums, the Most Valuable Players, and even some pretty cool behind the scene moments!
With this video, which will be our last one for 2010, we want to wish you all an amazing 2011 and remember to keep the Horns WAY Up! Be safe, because we need every single one of you in the Army of Chaos! And remember: If it's getting too loud, you are getting too old!
Special thanks to Jose Mangin for his endless support and for keeping Heavy Music stronger than all for over 10 years! \m/
The mighty Fear Factory, who released what we consider to be the album of the year with "Mechanized", were forced to postpone their short stretch of shows here in the United States due to a family emergency. The tour was suppose to start today and end on January 8th.
Fear Factory had a bittersweet year in 2010: Earlier this year they toured with Metallica in Australia, New Zealand and Japan (SWEET); at the end of their UK tour their bus caught fire (BITTER). Stay tuned for more news about Fear Factory!
In case you were planning on catching this tour, the best we can do to cheer you up, is to share with you some live footage we took of the band earlier this year! \m/
When we recently saw Crowbar groove the hell out of Santos Party House here in New York City, little did we know that they were taping parts of their latest video at this epic show. The name of the song is "The Cemetery Angels", which is the first single out of the new Crowbar record titled "Sever The Wicked Hand" (February 8th - E1 Music), and its a balls out jam with lots of groove. Buckle up and check it out!
Here is a video interview we did with Kirk Windstein right after the show, which also includes awesome life footage!
Long Island's most successful Hardcore band in history, is lining up a very interesting 2011. Vision Of Disorder recently performed at the Best Buy Theater in Times Square New York, along with Life Of Agony, Biohazard, and Seventh Void. The band brought its uncompromised attitude and did what they do best: get the crowd off their feet and into the pit. It is extremely hard for any band to follow Vision Of Disorder, because the band wont let anyone sit or stand still.
From the moment they got on stage and teased the crowd with some Black Sabbath, we knew it was going to be a legendary performance. By the time they played their legendary song "Element", the venue was pretty much packed and going ape shit. The band continued their set without any interruptions, because singer Tim Williams does not like standing still and blabbering about stupid shit. This is evident when we have interviewed him for Horns Up Rocks.
We absolutely believe that 2011 is going to be a phenomenal year for Vision Of Disorder, not only because the band sounds better then ever, but because after taking an extended musical break, the band is on the proper head space to return with full force. Want to find out more about what's in store for VOD in 2011? Check out this video interview we did with singer Tim Williams backstage at the Best Buy Theater, while Life Of Agony was performing.
We want to thank Tim Williams and Vision Of Disorder for their continuous support, and Brenna and Dan for granting us access at the show. Special thanks to Evil Steve for his camera work, and to Simi Friedman for the killer pictures. \m/
The Kings of New York Hardcore played a mean set at The Studio at Webster Hall on December 19th. The Hardcore titans celebrated the release of their latest offering “Empire” (released on October 10th), as part of the "East Coast Empire tour". Joining Madball were openers Incendiary, Lionheart and Bitter End. This was the last show of the tour.
As soon as Freddy Cricien, Hoya Roc, Mitts, and fill-in drummer Ben Dussault (ex-Throwdown) stepped on stage, the crowd went wild. The "kids" were hungry for some Hardcore, the real deal Hardcore that has been Madball's trademark since 1988. Madball performed a devastating set that had the whole floor shaking like an earthquake.
Despite of flaws from the sound guy at the beginning of the set, the action was non-stop. From the moment they kicked off their set with their classic song "Set It Off" (which you can view below), all the way to their classic staple shout "Hardcore Still Lives", Madball brought the beat-down. Freddy Madball and company know their roots and their fan base, proof of this is when they sing in Spanish, these tracks always sound the hardest! Just saying.
The new tracks from "Empire" were very well-received and had the audience singing and swinging hard, specially to "All or Nothing" (the band recently recorded a video for this song in Brooklyn), and "R.A.H.C. (Real American Hardcore)": an instant anthem that hopefully will stick to their already violently classic setlist.
Madball have nothing to prove at this point in their career. Their music and legacy speaks for itself. The bruisers live, and they won’t go out without a fight.
We want to thank Madball for so many years of amazing music, and for supporting Horns Up Rocks since day 1! Huge shout-out to Cuz Joe from Black N Blue Productions for putting this epic show together! \m/
The most important thing in life is family! Without the love, support, and respect from our families, we are inexistent. Sometimes we tend to take our family for granted, because we are too “busy” with insignificant events. Recently, our founder Jo Schüftan interviewed his daughter Sheila for “Saturday Morning Metal with Kara Pain”, which is a new show on Sirius XM Liquid Metal. The segment aired on Christmas day!
Sheila’s radio career started when she was a tiny little girl. Actually, her first words were broadcasted on WQKE 93.9 (SUNY Plattsburgh radio station) to the inmates of Clinton County Jail. Jo would usually bring Sheila to his weekly program called “The Kings Of Chaos”. This is how Sheila learned about bands like Black Sabbath, which is still her favorite band! Sheila’s first metallic words included: OZZY, SLAYER, and of course METAL!!!
Today we present to you a video produced by Jo, dedicated to his daughter Sheila. The video features the radio segment, along with a showcase of Sheila’s many talents (acting, dancing, snowboarding, swimming, wall climbing, fighting, playing the violin, making sand castles).
We want to thank the Liquid Metal crew for their continuous support and dedication to the Heavy Music scene. After ten years of carrying the torch and helping to spread the word worldwide! It is safe to assume that they are the most important Media Outlet in the world, when it comes to Heavy Music.
Here is the video! Dedicated to Jo's familia and his gorgeous bad-ass daughter Sheila! If you want to go On Air with your kid(s), email Kara Pain at kara@siriusxm.com
After carefully watching what different media outlets released this holiday season, we decided that instead of creating an end of the year summary using old content, we would instead create a 30-minute program that showcases the impact of Heavy Music in 2010. In order to make this a successful program, we would have to find the ideal platform. That platform? New York City’s Times Square, also known as the “center of the world”!
You may be thinking that we went into a Broadway show and bumped elbows with tourists. But the reality is that what we experienced was magical.
We arrived at the Best Buy Theater (formerly the Nokia Theater), which is the best sounding venue in New York City. The place is pimped out! As soon as we got there we ran into a lot of familiar faces, one face that stood out was Tommy Vext (formerly from Divine Heresy and Snot). From that moment on, we knew this night would be like no other! The video special will make this very evident, so make sure you check it out. We have live footage, exclusive interviews and more!
Seventh Void, which features members of Type O Negative opened the night with a tight set, and made all the concert attendees remember the great Peter Steele (RIP)! A few minutes later, it was time for Long Island’s Kings of Hardcore Vision Of Disorder. VOD never just shows up to a show, they make sure they get the crowd pumped and could have easily headlined the show. We had the chance to talk to their singer Tim Williams (included on the video special), and 2011 is shaping up to be an awesome year for this phenomenal band.
As soon as VOD finished their set, we caught up with Revolver Magazine’s Editor In Chief Brandon Geist and discussed the impact of Heavy Music in 2010 (also included on the video special). Revolver Magazine’s latest issue is a tribute to all the “fallen heroes” of Heavy Music. Make sure you pick it up!
Next up was Biohazard, who always makes sure to get the crowd moving and that they leave with a smile on their face. We had the chance to talk to their guitarist Bobby Hambel (also included on the video special), and he is a true legend!
In our opinion, Biohazard should have been the main headliner, simply because they are a lot more energetic then Life Of Agony. As a result, the crowd was somewhat tired once Life Of Agony took center stage. Nevertheless, Life Of Agony sounded amazing!
WIthout further due, here is our 2010 Holiday Special (includes bonus footage starring Brian Fair from Shadows Falls)! We want to dedicate this piece to Peter Steele, Ronnie James Dio and Paul Gray! And of course, all the fans of Horns Up Rocks!!!
Special thanks to our photographers Evil Steve, Damien Mitchell and Simi Friedman. Our videographers Lucky, Evil Steve, Lisa Marie Gort DeStefano and Alissa Shimansky. And last but not least, Jose Mangin, Brandon Geist, Tim WIlliams, Bobby Hambel, and Brian Fair!
The "Prince of Darkness" Ozzy Osbourne has inspired Horns Up Rocks since our inception in early February. Actually, our second post ever was a review of Ozzy's book titled "I Am Ozzy". 11 months later, we are writing about Ozzy again, but this time is to inspire you to give to those who needed the most this holiday season. So how can Ozzy inspire you?
During a recent shopping spree in Toronto with his daughter Kelly, Ozzy ran into a struggling musician. After hearing the man's story, Ozzy reached in his pocket and handed the man a $100 bill. The man was very thankful, and obviously excited. Before parting ways, the man asked Ozzy for an autograph. Ozzy took the $100 bill back, and signed it for the man. Then Ozzy said: "Maybe now it's worth more than a 100 bucks".
This was not the first time that Ozzy showed us how generous he is. Earlier this year, Ozzy ran into a homeless man in the streets of Los Angeles and gave him his $4500 gold necklace! According to various sources: "The guy asked Ozzy for some change. After searching his pockets Ozzy realised he didn't have any so handed him his $4,500 gold necklace instead. He took the gold crucifix from around his neck and gave it to the man telling him to pray with it. The man could not thank Ozzy enough."
OZZY rules! Let him inspire you this holiday season! HEAVY HOLIDAYS from your friends at Horns Up Rocks! \m/
Horns throwers listen up! Do YOU want to win tickets to go see the mighty GWAR on Sunday December 26 at the Best Buy Theater in Times Square, New York?
HOW? Listen to WQMC Radio at 3 PM Eastern on Wednesday December 22nd. Make sure you keep your ears wide open for the keyword that can win you a pair of tickets for Gwar! Once the DJ says the keyword...
THEN WHAT? Call 718-997-3986 for YOUR chance to win!
Good luck and remember: if it's getting too loud, you are getting too old!
Horns Up Rocks wants to wish every single one of you: HEAVY HOLIDAYS and a METALLIC 2011! Thanks so much for your support, and rest assured that will keep the HORNS way UP in 2011! Please be safe, because we need every single one of you to keep the Heavy Music Army growing and becoming STRONGER THAN ALL!
We decided to take a look at all the memories that we lived throughout 2010, and give you our beloved fans, the ultimate Top 10! Starting today, we will post one memory a day! The best memory of 2010 will be posted on New Years Day (December 31st)!
\m/ NUMBER 10: THE HIXON Chronicles - On August 27th, Horns Up Rocks and Jefferson Avenue Productions brought the annual Hixonfest to the Ace of Clubs bar in New York City. The event featured live music by Lies Beneath, Canons, S.W.A.K., female Judas Priest tribute band Judas Priestess, and New Jersey's Thrash Metal titans The Hixon. Additionally, the event was hosted by Richard Christy from the Howard Stern Show and Charred Walls of the Damned. The event also featured a sexy model search hosted by Crown Ink Divas CEO Frankie Scorpion.
Before the event, and before we all started our drink-a-thon, Horns Up Rocks founder Jo Schuftan interviewed The Hixon. Here is what went down:
\m/ NUMBER 9: METAL meets COMEDY (with Don Jamieson and Jim Florentine of VH1 Classic's THAT METAL SHOW) - When it comes to mixing Heavy Metal and Comedy, there are very few people that can blend them together like Don Jamieson and Jim Florentine do. You may be familiar with this two maniacs, from VH1 Classic's That Metal Show, or from the infamous "Terrorizing Tele-marketers CD's. You may also know them from Comedy Central's Crankyankers and Meet the Creeps, or maybe from a Heavy Metal concert. Regardless of where you know them from, what this two man have achieved in their careers, is truly admirable! We had the chance to interview both of them together, and somehow managed to keep them somewhat controlled! Check it out:
\m/ NUMBER 8: SLAYER, MEGADETH & ANTHRAX @ American Carnage 2 - On Friday October 8th, we headed to the Nassau Vetarans Memorial Coliseum in Long Island to experience one of the best tours in Heavy Metal history. Which tour are we talking about? The second leg of the American Carnage tour, sponsored by Jägermeister Music, which features Slayer, Megadeth and Anthrax.
We arrived at the venue around 4 o'clock, and immediately headed to lot 6 (pretty appropriate) for Jo Schuftan's (founder of Horns Up Rocks) tailgate birthday party! As soon as we arrived to lot 6, Heavy Metal was blasting from every car in the parking lot! It was heaven for any Metal head and hell for everyone else. Check out the videos we captured!
\m/ NUMBER 7:At the 2010 Hixonfest, the Judas Priestess played a furious set right after New Jersey's Metaleros The Hixon almost burned the house down. The all female Judas Priest tribute band puts the pedal to the Metal, and they do it from start to finish. Judas Priestess deliver a vulgar display of adrenaline, that can be addictive. Not only can they make the dudes headbang out of control, they also get the chicks to shake their booties lambada style. When the Judas Priestess ladies rock the hell out of the stage, nobody is safe. Here is the interview that METAL LOVE did with the ladies of Judas Priestess! This became an instant hit and was published on BLABBERMOUTH! \m/
\m/ NUMBER 666: New Orleans has always been known for its influence in music and its multilingual cross-cultural heritage. This ever-changing region of the United States gave birth to Jazz music, and is universally known for its cuisine. Recently they became known for their NFL football team, thanks to the New Orleans Saints victory over the Indianapolis Colts at this years Super Bowl in Miami. What does all this have to do with Heavy Music? Well, NOLA is the birthplace of some of the best bands in the country! This year we produced a lot of legendary interview videos, but two interviews that we are very proud of are the ones with Kirk Windstein (Crowbar, Down, Kingdom of Sorrow), and Ben Falgoust (Goatwhore, Soilent Green). Check this two jewels out:
\m/ NUMBER 5: Eugene Victor Hoglan II, known by many of you as Gene Hoglan or "The Atomic Clock", is one of the best drummers in the world. During his 26 year career he has played in bands such as Strapping Young Lad, Testament, Dark Angel, War God and Dethklok. When I heard that he was joining the mighty Fear Factory, my heart started beating at triple the tempo. I started envisioning what the new generation of Fear Factory would sound like. The results blew my mind when I heard their latest album titled "Mechanized". Here is our interview with Gene Hoglan (featured on Blabbermouth), as well as some live footage of Fear Factory!
\m/ NUMBER 4: As we all know, Ronnie James Dio passed away earlier this year after losing his battle to stomach cancer. A few weeks before his passing, Ronnie made his way to Los Angeles from a cancer clinic in Texas, for the Revolver Golden Gods Awards. To me this is very inspiring and proofs the power behind Heavy Music. Ronnie James Dio will always be remembered as a true warrior!
We had a chance to talk to Jose Mangin (Sirius XM Liquid Metal & MTV Headbangers Ball), Don Jamieson (That Metal Show), Brandon Geist (Revolver Magazine), and even Alex Skolnick (Testament) about the legacy of Ronnie James Dio which Corey. All of them tell us their "behind the scenes" stories involving Ronnie James Dio. Check it out!
\m/ NUMBER 3: "When I think about what brought me to New York, the first thing that comes to my mind is New York Hard Core. Growing up in Colombia in the mid 90's, back when Pablo Escobar and crew controlled the country through acts of violence. I experienced lots of hardship by watching my own country, become the country of fear. I was around 15 years old when I first heard downset, I know downset are from LA but once I was hooked on the Hard Core movement, I started to listen to New York Hard Core through bands like Sick Of It All, Madball, Agnostic Front, Biohazard, Vision of Disorder and a whole bunch of other bands (mostly through mix tapes)." -Jo Schüftan (Founder of Horns Up Rocks)
Here are some legendary interviews I did this year with some of the biggest Hardcore artists:
\m/ NUMBER 2: "Ever since I became a diehard Pantera fan, I wanted to get a CFH (Cowboys From Hell) tattoo! Not only is Pantera my all time favorite band, but also a huge influence on who I am. Pantera defines what life is all about: Determination, Passion and making the best out of every single moment lived. With that said, when I went to the Philadelphia Tattoo Convention I knew I had to have an appointment with the needle and chinese ink. Now I am officially Scarred For Life and a Pantera fan until the day I die." -Jo Schuftan (Founder of Horns Up Rocks)
Apart from covering the CFH tattoo story, we also covered some awesome Pantera events, check this out:
\m/ NUMBER UNO: As we all know, the great Peter Steele from Type O Negative died on April 14, 2010 from heart failure. Peter will always be remembered as one of the most charismatic musicians in history. Together with his bands Type O Negative and Carnivore, he created a legacy that will never die! Fortunately, Peter will always live through his passionate music and if you ever had a chance to meet him or to see perform live, you know that he was a true legend.
This was the saddest and biggest story this year for Horns Up Rocks to cover. Pete ignited a flame that we will never let die! Here are some of the videos we produced in memory of Peter Steele, 'the giant man with a heart of gold!"
There was a lot of hype for this show, which was held at Santos Party House in New York City (too small a venue for such majestic band). This, however, made for a very intimate ritual among the attendees.
When we arrived to the carnage with a group of headbangers, Black Anvil took the stage. Good stuff from a former Hardcore band, who blurred the lines between Hardcore Punk and Black Metal, to create their own brand of music.
Up next was Goatwhore. Hail the Goat! The brothers never disappoint with the onslaught of blackened Thrash Metal. The sound was not all that great, but the band knows how to get Metal heads all riled-up. Always refreshing is to hear this band play tracks from “Funeral Dirge For The Rotting Sun”, as it is to hear their latest stuff, “Carving Out The Eyes Of God”, which absolutely destroys.
Then it was time for the main rotted final course: Watain.
I was not sure what to expect since this was my first time seeing this band live. There was a lingering stench in the air. It truly smelled like entrails and blood. Pure evil. It all made sense once Watain took the stage. The satanic stage, blessed with animal skulls, and drenching blood, the corpse paint, the negative vibe in the air. It was all demented and a great production, but Watain’s brilliance is in their music.
Flawless Black metal, with slabs of Death, and technicality that was simply awesome.
The band played some classics that got the old school Black Metal maniacs pumped, and also a showcase of their latest album titled “Lawless Darkness”, not surprisingly the #2 record in the “Top 40 Extreme Albums of 2010”, compiled by Decibel magazine.
Watain with their horrific brand of Heady Metal demonstrated why they are such an important Metal band, possibly the most important Black Metal band of this generation. This band shows no boundaries, and their music is a destructive machine that did not stop until everyone in the audience is taken aback. \m/
Here fan footage of Watain's legendary performance:
What better way to end such an amazing year in Heavy Music, then by announcing the RETURN of Headbangers Ball on MTV2. While the show continued running after Jamey Jasta left the show, the old school HBB fans were not feeling it. What was missing? A good host, with some kick-ass guest and at a better time slot.
The HOST: José Mangin from Sirius XM Liquid Metal and Latination! Here are some facts about our Metal Compadre:
- José Mangin is one of the most passionate and knowledgeable Metal heads on the planet.
- He started his career in radio at the University of Arizona in Tucson, where he was Metal Director at the College radio station.
- While attending Pharmacy graduate school in Memphis, he landed a job in radio and ended up choosing a life of Rock N Roll over medicine.
- In 2000 he moved to New York City and began his job as a national radio Program Director and on-air personality at Sirius Satellite Radio.
- Apart from hosting a few special episodes of Headbangers Ball, José also hosted the very first Revolver Golden Gods Awards for MTV2 in 2009.
- In the last 10 years José Mangin has interviewed every Metal icon! The infinite list includes: Ozzy Osbourne, Ronnie James Dio, Peter Steel, Phil Anselmo, James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Tom Araya, Kerry King, Dave Mustaine, Corey Taylor and the list goes on and on.
Here is what José had to say about his new adventure with HBB: “It’s been a lifelong goal and dream to be a part of the holy HEADBANGERS BALL a show that gave me my metal wings when I was a little kid,” said Mangin. “I’m far beyond honored to be hosting 2010’s ‘Year in Metal’ special with a team that dominates and has the same goal I do—to infect the world with heavy metal music! As our godfather Ozzy Osbourne always says…‘let’s go f’in CRAZY!!!’”
Tune in to MTV2 this Saturday for a NEW version of the show! The show will be kicked off in style, check the press release out: "The can’t-miss half-hour special presentation will feature some of the biggest names in Metal: Anthrax, Max Cavalera, In this Moment, Ozzy Osbourne bassist Rob Blasko and editors from Revolver and Decibel magazines, who will all be on hand to look back at 2010’s defining moments of metal. If that wasn’t enough, the show will also provide viewers with VIP access to an exclusive performance from Brooklyn’s own, Life of Agony."
On Sunday November 28, thanks to Doc Coyle (God Forbid) and Ria Katz (Santos Party House), God Forbid, Mutiny Within, Dead Men Dreaming, Timeless, Human Decline, The Judas Syndrome, Empyreon and a Great Day To Die, took center stage at Santos Party House in New York City, in order to help Tommy Vext (former singer of Divine Heresy and Snot) raise some funds. The matinee was a memorable event, and it was really good to see so many people supporting such an awesome cause.
While all the bands kicked ass, the highlight of the night was when Tommy returned to the stage after 17 months (his last show had been on May 17, 2009 with Snot in California), and played an emotional acoustic set. Tommy was joined by his best friend Doc Coyle from God Forbid, who is also his band-member on a new project they recently started working on (pre-production started on December 9th).
The project was suppose to start months ago, but it had to come to a halt when he was viciously attacked by his own brother. Here is an extract of an interview with Tommy (courtesy of Metal Insider) explaining what happened that horrific day.
"On the evening of September 19th I was leaving my apartment in Brooklyn to visit my sister and was struck over the back of my head from behind during an attempted robbery. I fell and turned around and was struck again with a crowbar. The metal bar broke my left arm and this is when I saw my attacker. A 6’1, 320 pound man covered in dirt & blood. It was my estranged brother. Homeless, intoxicated and desperate, he repeatedly hit me on the back and sides with the weapon as I tried to shield myself from the blows. I managed to get on my feet and throw him off of me. I took off to a neighbors house and called 911. The ambulance arrived and I was rushed to the Hospital. After multiple X-rays & MRI’s, the doctors found I had a fractured skull and broken arm. I was discharged the next day. Because my attacker had not been apprehended I was staying with a friend in Manhattan during the first few days of my recovery. Four days after the incident, I collapsed in a Manhattan restaurant and was rushed back to the Hospital. This time the doctors found I had been internally bleeding since the 19th and now my spleen had ruptured. I went into emergency surgery at Cornell Hospital where my spleen was removed and I received a blood transfusion."
Here is a video that our good friend Tommy Jones from "The Studio" in New Jersey, shot and edited at the benefit. If you couldn't make it, but still want to help Tommy out. You can donate any amount via his PayPal account: tommyvext@gmail.com. We also have an EXCLUSIVE interview with Tommy coming soon!
And to the brink, I will rise!!! Vision Of Disorder is ready to rise once again and show the world what they are capable of doing through their furious music. Like most successful bands, their career has been one hell of a roller-coaster. What started as a Hardcore band in 1992, quickly evolved into a crossover between Hardcore, Metalcore and even Grunge Music. While some fans might see this as a lame move, there is nothing more refreshing then watching a band evolve their musical craft.
The journey has not been easy for Vision Of Disorder. Their early years got the band nationwide recognition, which resulted in a very fast paced and stressful rhythm for some very young guys. Get this, by the time most kids start college, VOD was playing shows with some of the best Heavy Metal bands in history: Black Sabbath, Pantera, Slayer, Sepultura, Tool, and Megadeth! While this was amazing for a Hardcore band from Long Island New York, there are a lot of things that VOD found the hard way.
One of the hard lessons that Vision Of Disorder learned very quickly was how the record industry works. We believe that one of the factors that affected the relationship between the band and the record industry was the fact that it was hard for record labels to categorize their music, which affected the way their music was marketed. In 2002, after years of disappointment with various record labels, the band took an extended hiatus.
Fast forward to 2006, when the band reunited at the “Superbowl of Hardcore” in New York City. The response of the fans was incredible, but Vision Of Disorder were not in the proper head-space for recording a new album and to go on a full-blown tour. Part of the delay in the band making a full comeback, is the fact that singer Tim Williams is overcoming his addictions.
Currently, the band is recording a 5-song demo that they plan on shopping around to different record labels. Once they find the right deal, they will re-enter the studio and work on their next full-length album. Their goal is to keep the evolution of Vision Of Disorder going strong, and to record songs that will transmit furiously when they get on stage in front of the “VOD kids”.
Here is an interview we conducted with VOD's frontman Tim Williams, when they DESTROYED The Gramercy Theater in New York City this past August:
Here are some interesting facts about Vision Of Disorder:
- VOD was formed in 1992, when guitarists Matt Baumbach and Mike Kennedy recruited singer Tim Williams, drummer Brendon Cohen and bassist Mike Fleischmann.
- Around the time when they recorded their 7 inch titled "Still", they got invited to participate in a documentary about the New York Hardcore scene titled N.Y.H.C., which helped the band to start creating an underground following. This was enough for Roadrunner Records to offer the band a major record deal.
- In 1996 they released their self-titled album, often referred to as the "green album" because of the artwork on the cover. The album was glorified by many old school Hardcore fans for its original sound.
- "Imprint" was recorded in only 2 weeks, because that is what was budgeted by Roadrunner Records. As a result the sound is raw, which turned off some fans. This is when the band decided to leave Roadrunner Records. “Imprint” features a duet between Tim Williams and Phil Anselmo from Pantera, Down, etc.
When a Heavy Music fan sees the Biohazard logo at a doctor's office or medical laboratory, the first thing that comes to mind is Brooklyn based Hardcore legends BIOHAZARD. Established in 1987 in Brooklyn, when Hardcore music was at a pivotal point. The Brooklyn based band took Hardcore music to another level, and added a new flavor to the ever changing genre. Not only did every song have attitude and power, but it also had that urban feel that makes New York Hardcore such a unique musical style. Biohazard was one of the first bands to perfectly blend Hardcore Punk, Heavy Metal and Hip Hop.
While the band has had its ups and downs, including a few lineup changes, today they stand tall and strong. Their original lineup is back together, and after experiencing Biohazard live at Irving Plaza in New York City in 2008 and at The Crazy Donkey in Long Island in 2009, the 4 man have not lost the fire that got them worldwide recognition. We are of course talking about Evan Seinfeld (Vocals/Bass), Billy Graziadei and Bobby Hambel (Guitars), and Danny Schuler (Drums).
As soon as Biohazard gets on stage nobody is safe, this Hardcore veterans can wake the dead up with their energetic display of musical fury. While their message has changed throughout the years, their power has remained intact. In our opinion, the break they took worked in their favor because now they are at a different phase, and we are pretty sure that their upcoming release is going to be one of the best records of 2011.
Here are some interesting facts about Biohazard:
- Biohazard was formed in 1987 in the Bensonhurst neighborhood of Brooklyn.
- Peter Steele (RIP) from Type O Negative and Carnivore, named the band.
- Their first demo was released in 1988, and the media immediately took notice, since they felt that the lyrics displayed fascist and white supremacist views, even though Evan Seinfeld is Jewish.
- The band was accused of promoting racism through their music, and after denying this for years, Seinfeld and Graziadei explained that it was a publicity stunt to win over Carnivore’s fans. Eventually, they stopped playing the controversial songs. From that moment on the band started to transmit a message of tolerance and anti-racism.
- While Biohazard has never considered themselves a Hardcore band, they became a key asset of the New York Hardcore scene. During the CBGB’s days, they often shared the stage with NYHC titans Cro-Mags and Agnostic Front.
- In the past many clubs have refused to let Biohazard play, since they are afraid that the show will be too violent. As a result, bands like Mucky Pup would sneak them on stage to perform a few songs before their set.
Seventh Void was established in 2003, when Johnny Kelly and Kenny Hickey from Type O Negative joined forces with Matt brown from A Pale Horse Named Death and Hank Hell. Their debut album “Heaven is Gone” was released in North America on April of 2009 on Vinnie Paul’s (Pantera, Damageplan, Hellyeah) record label “Big Vin Records”, and in November 2010 in Europe via “Napalm Records”.
The first time I heard of Seventh Void was after Peter Steele passed away this in April. Once I heard the musical power of Seventh Void, I couldn’t believe me it took that long to discover then. But hey, better late than never! “Heaven is Gone” is one of my favorite tracks out of the album, and it was also the first song I heard from them. I’ve always been a fan of Kenny’s voice, especially in songs like “All Hallows Eve” & “We Hate Everyone” by Type O Negative. Another factor that adds to the bands over sound is having Johnny on drums. Johnny in my opinion is one of the most influential drummers in Heavy Metal, along with Sal Abruscato (Life Of Agony, A Pale Horse Named Death), Vinnie Paul (Pantera, Damageplan, Hellyeah), Lars Ulrich (Metallica) and Dave Lombardo (Slayer).
My ear drums tell me: “This band kicks ass!” From the moment I listen to the album from beginning to end. Every song has its own feel, but never loses its edge like most bands do when they try experimenting. There are certain “mainstream” bands that write one or two good songs, and the rest of the album sucks! Seventh Void is not this type of band, and you can tell that they work carefully on every song to make sure that the whole album is good front beginning to end.
I have had the pleasure of chatting with Johnny Kelly a few times, and he is just a down to earth guy who is lucky to be doing what he loves to do. His passion and humbleness are the reason why he has so much respect and support from the fans. From what I have heard, the chances of having Seventh Void perform in Toronto are slim. But if I have to travel to see them, I will be the first in line.. Cheers and Keep those Horns High UP!
Yesterday marked the ninth year anniversary of the passing of a true legend: Charles Michael "Chuck" Schuldiner (May 13, 1967 – December 13, 2001). Chuck was the founder of one of the most renowned and influential bands in Heavy Metal: DEATH.
Schuldiner was the singer, main songwriter, rhythm and lead guitarist of Death (founded in 1983). Due to his influence and talent, he is worthily known as "The Father of Death Metal." Known for his modesty and kindness, Chuck often denounced the flattering attention he received for his accomplishments. "I don’t think I should take the credits for this Death Metal stuff. I am just a guy from a band, and I think Death is a Metal band.”
Chuck started playing guitar at the tender age of 9. After his older brother passed away, his parents figured that giving him a new hobby would help young Chuck to cope with this significant loss. When he was 16, Chuck started a band called Mantas, which eventually became Death. His initial influences include: Iron Maiden, Billy Idol, and French band Sortilège.
In 1987, Schuldiner released the first Death album, which he titled “Scream Bloody Gore”. A year later he released “Leprosy”, and in February of 1990 he released the critically acclaimed “Spiritual Healing”. One of the key moves Chuck made in order to get Death to the next level, was to recruit fellow legend and guitarist James Murphy.
The turning point for Death was when they released their breakthrough album “Human”. On this album Chuck explored more technical and progressive abilities, which eventually became Death’s signature sound. This musical progression and perfection continued on 1993's “Individual Thought Patterns”, 1995's “Symbolic”, and “The Sound of Perseverance”, which was released in 1998. Over time, Death underwent many lineup changes, which opened the doors for various musicians who are now considered Heavy Metal all-stars. A few of these all-stars who contributed to Death’s legacy include: Gene Hoglan, Richard Christy, Sean Reinert, Paul Masvidal, and Steve DiGiorgio. With these accomplishments, Death warranted their perpetual legendary status throughout the Metal world, which still stands strong today.
Throughout his career, Schuldiner was never afraid to take on controversial issues and uphold his own personal views. On the album “Spiritual Healing”, he divulged his anti-drug values through his lyrics for "Living Monstrosity" and even raged against abortion on the track "Altering the Future.” He was also known to speak openly against “satanic” themes, which have always been part of Death Metal. He disputed in opposition to stereotypes and classifications that portrayed Metal-heads to be harmful to animals and people, or to be purveyors of death and malevolence. He strongly opposed artists who were "out of control", and attracted negative attention to the Death Metal scene. Chuck was a role model to the fans, and also to the bands he had the chance to influence through his music and viewpoints.
After further evolvement of his musical endeavors and styles, Chuck decided to retire the Death name, and formed a new band called Control Denied. In 1999, they released “The Fragile Art of Existence”.
Around May of 1999, Chuck had been experiencing pain in his upper neck. After being sent for an MRI exam, he was sadly diagnosed with life threatening pontine glioma, a malignant type of brain cancer that attacks the brain stem. He was immediately sent to undergo radiation therapy. In October 1999, Chuck’s family announced that the tumor had necrotized. Then in January 2000, chuck underwent a surgical procedure in order to remove the rest of the tumor. The operation was a success, and Chuck continued his work with Control Denied.
In May 2001 (two years after his initial diagnosis), the cancer returned. This time, due to a financial debt he was not able to receive the immediate surgery that his condition required; to make matters worse his medical insurance denied the coverage of the treatment. Many influential figures of the music industry, as well as a strong alliance of dedicated fans, gathered in support of Chuck’s impact to the music world, and rallied to raise funds to benefit his demanding medical needs. Still unable to acquire the necessary surgical procedure that would possibly save his life, he underwent chemotherapy. The harsh side effects of this treatment immensely weakened Chuck, and took a severe toll on his ability to continue with his music. In late October, Chuck’s frail body fell ill to pneumonia. On December 13th, 2001, at approximately 4 PM (Eastern), Chuck tragically died at the young age of 34.
Today, 9 years after the passing of a true Heavy Metal icon, Chuck’s memory continues to thrive through the influence of his music and the admiration of his ability to always stay true to his beliefs. Chuck is truly a pioneer of Metal, and a hero for all who he has affected with his accomplishments, attitude, and morale. "I would like to live forever, if it was possible", he once said in an interview. Little did he know at the time, that with the significant and historical impact he left on the Metal community, he surely would.
When we were planning our end of the year recap, we had a full bag of ideas. However, the last thing we wanted to do was to use old content, simply because this is the formula that most media outlets use. Luckily, we were able to create exactly what we think you deserve. We truly believe that this is the best recap you will see when it comes to Heavy Metal in 2010. 
