NEWS
1. New Meersein SIngle "Theater"
2. Review - "Within Temptation - Bleed Out" 3. Band-Spotlight - "Stahlmann" |
1. New Meersein Single "Theater"
Hello everyone! Today, I want to share with you an exciting experience I had recently. I was invited as a guest on the TV show "cafe-schwarz.tv" and was given the challenge to perform the song "Theater" by Katja Ebstein in my own unique way. I must admit, I initially found it quite challenging, but I believe the final version turned out to be something special. As a special treat, I would like to share a snippet of this upcoming release from my album "Meersein." So sit back, relax, and enjoy!
2. Review - "Within Temptation - Bleed out"
Title: "WITHIN TEMPTATION's 'Bleed Out': An Evolution in Symphonic Metal"
In the world of Symphonic Metal, two names stand out: NIGHTWISH and the Netherlands' very own WITHIN TEMPTATION. Since 1996, this Dutch powerhouse has been a stable force in the metal scene, with a remarkable lineup, including the husband-and-wife duo, Sharon den Adel and Robert Westerholt. They're joined by long-standing members like guitarist Ruud Jolie (since 2001), bassist Jeroen van Veen (a founding member), and keyboardist Martijn Spierenburg (since 2001). Their eighth album, "Bleed Out," continues this legacy. One of WITHIN TEMPTATION's trademarks is their constant musical evolution. Comparing their breakthrough album, "Mother Earth," to their latest, "Resist," it's evident that their sound has transformed, yet their musical excellence and unique identity remain intact. "Bleed Out" keeps this trajectory alive, maintaining the modern direction of "Resist" and pushing it further. This means deeper-tuned Nu-Metal guitars, futuristic and prominent synthesizers, and clearer Metalcore elements. This transformation is evident in tracks like 'Shed My Tears,' a collaboration with German Metalcore stars ANNISOKAY, taking WITHIN TEMPTATION fans far from their comfort zone but delivering a powerful song. The lyrics of "Bleed Out" are as contemporary as their music, fearlessly addressing pressing societal issues like the Ukraine war and women's rights in Iran. These themes are woven into compelling compositions, with 'We Go To War' and the title track leaving a strong impression. The pop-infused 'Worth Dying For' features grand orchestral elements and choirs, while 'Wireless' provides a dark Nu-Metal experience, perhaps the album's heaviest moment. 'Ritual' stands out with subtle tribal vibes, even if it takes a few listens for the chorus to fully resonate. Frontwoman Sharon deserves a tip of the hat, her charismatic voice carrying many compositions without venturing into operatic territory. In summary, "Bleed Out" is a strong addition to WITHIN TEMPTATION's discography. If you enjoyed their modern direction in previous releases, you're in for a treat. I give it nine points, a testament to a band that fearlessly forges its own path and consistently evolves. 3. Band-Spotlight - "Stahlmann"
Introduction
In the rich tapestry of Neue Deutsche Härte (NDH), a subgenre that has enthralled fans of industrial metal for decades, Stahlmann emerges as a formidable and exciting force. Hailing from Germany, the very heart of NDH's birthplace, Stahlmann has carved a niche for themselves with their unique blend of hard-hitting rock, electronic elements, and an undeniably Teutonic flair. In this blog post, we delve into the story of Stahlmann and their remarkable journey through the realms of NDH. The Formation of Stahlmann Stahlmann was formed in 2008 in Göttingen, Germany. The brainchild of vocalist Mart Soer and keyboardist Alex Sacher, the band was soon joined by guitarist Sebastian Kessler and drummer Niklas Kahl. Drawing inspiration from NDH pioneers like Rammstein and Oomph!, Stahlmann set out to create a sound that was both aggressive and catchy, fusing metal with electronic elements. Debut Album and Early Success Stahlmann wasted no time in making their presence felt. In 2010, they released their eponymous debut album, "Stahlmann." The record made waves in the NDH scene and introduced the band's signature sound to a growing fan base. Songs like "Herzschlag" and "Stahlmann" showcased their talent for crafting infectious melodies, while still maintaining the hard-hitting, industrial edge that defines NDH. Milestones and Releases Over the years, Stahlmann continued to make significant strides in the NDH world. Their second album, "Quecksilber," released in 2012, saw the band refining their style and further solidifying their position in the genre. Songs like "Süchtig" and "AmoK" showcased their penchant for exploring dark, introspective themes. Subsequent albums, including "Adamant" (2013) and "CO2" (2015), showcased Stahlmann's evolution as they experimented with a broader range of musical influences while remaining true to their NDH roots. The band continued to tour extensively, building a reputation for electrifying live performances that matched their high-energy studio recordings. Discography and Notable Tracks Stahlmann's discography is a treasure trove for NDH enthusiasts. Their songs are characterized by the perfect marriage of melodic hooks and thundering guitar riffs. Some standout tracks include "Tanzmaschine," "Kinder der Sehnsucht," and "Plasma." The Stahlmann Experience Stahlmann offers listeners a compelling experience, both through their music and their visually stunning live performances. They are known for their theatrical stage presence, often incorporating pyrotechnics, elaborate costumes, and striking visuals into their shows, making each concert an unforgettable spectacle. Conclusion Stahlmann's journey through the world of Neue Deutsche Härte is a testament to their dedication to the genre and their ability to continually push its boundaries. With their unique sound, unforgettable tracks, and captivating live shows, Stahlmann is a band that demands attention within the NDH scene and beyond. As they continue to evolve and explore new horizons, fans of NDH and industrial metal eagerly await what Stahlmann has in store for the future. So, if you're looking for a high-octane, Teutonic musical experience, look no further than Stahlmann. |