While everyone is talking about James Brown's passing today, in my opinion a more important issue back here in Sydney today: Former NSW Premier John Fahey and his wife Colleen lost their gorgeous daughter Tiffany today in a car crash at Moorebank.
Aside from thinking Paul Keating is a god these days, I'm not one to worship politicians but this is certainly deserving of a mention and respect to the family of the deceased.
Fahey was a good Premier, and who can forget his leap from the chair upon the announcement of Sydney's clinch of the 2000 Olympics?
I feel for this family. They've lost a beautiful young woman who had a bright future.
More details from the SMH here.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Study: One-third of U.S. teens own iPods
For 2006, one-third of teens reported owning an Apple Computer iPod, up from only 1 percent in 2003, according to the study. More than half said they also own and play Sony's PlayStation 2, and one-third said they own an original Microsoft Xbox game console. But as many as three quarters reported playing video games on a regular basis.
Somewhat unsurprising if you ask me, given how many white earphones I see on the train everyday to work. It's also funny seeing this kind of stuff in the news these days... for those of us who have been geeking away for the last 10 years, articles like this seem almost old news, or rather 10 years late... I never thought I would see adverts for Doom III and Quake IV on buses, but I guess anything can happen :)
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Sahg: "II"?
Sahg state that it looks like the album will contain an even wider variation than 'Sahg I', spanning from fast and propulsive, via slow and gloomy, to some experimental acoustic pieces. No song titles or working title for the album yet, but this will be posted shortly.
'Sahg I' is nominated for 'Best album' at the annual local award show 'Bergen Awards' in hometown Bergen. Sahg is one out of three nominees in the category. The award show takes place at Landmark in Bergen, on January 26.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
"Burzum-war": Battle of the Internet.
For some years now I noticed that there were two Burzum websites: burzum.org and burzum.com
burzum.com seems to service as an archive, while burzum.org serves as Vikernes' voice from his cell, and seems more personalised. I must say that I have always preferred burzum.org, mainly because Vikernes does have an element of input into the site. burzum.com on the other hand seems stale and much more fan administrated.
It seems that Vikernes himself has known about burzum.com's continued existence, and has not approved as a result:
burzum.com used to be the official Burzum website, but that's many years ago. I told Rainer (the original host) to close the website down, I think in 2000 (but I'm not sure), but instead he turned it into an archive. Some years later he sold the address to somebody else, without ever asking me for permission to do so, and my problem with an "open forum" for lies, false rumours and other crap was back. I don't know who is behind www.burzum.com and I guess whey mean well, but I wish everybody boycotted the site 100%. If there are any other websites out there dedicated to Burzum (or me) I wish You were all boycotting them as well. They are all a problem to me. The only website I support (in this context) is www.burzum.ørg!
If those who run www.burzum.com (or other websites in the same vein) want to in any way support me they should close down their website, and I encourage You to do so! Whether You mean well or not; just stop it! Remove everything from the Internet, and allow those who have an interest in the truth to find it without first having to plow through all Your bullshit. Support burzum.org only! That's all I have to say about this.
Of course, burzum.com have issued a rebuttal to this statement from Vikernes. An excerpt is below:
One of the reasons we have never supported the "official" Burzum website is that we, as critical thinking citizens of experience and intelligence and some learning, do not trust the behavior of its admins. They, like the SHF before them, increasingly feed Mr. Vikernes disinformation and provoke him to make ludicrous statements. Their agenda is to be the mouthpiece for the kind of "white power" and neo-Nazi beliefs that drag the West (Europe and European-Americans) down into an abyss of defensive, selfish behavior.
I understand that they seek to exclude the politics of Burzum out of their purpose and this is morally correct and sound (and I myself am extremely against racial intolerance and prejudice). It is unfortunately, very difficult to do so, especially when Vikernes is such as political figure himself. To exclude the politics will distort the entire Burzum story and create an inaccuracy of information.
We all know that Burzum itself is not NSBM, but to an outsider, they are either not aware of this apparent connection, or they do believe that the politics comes from the music (which it does not, thus Burzum is not NSBM) as opposed to the musician himself.
I think it is possible for the two sites to co-exist, but burzum.com need to re-shuffle their appearance and perhaps learn to accept that they might serve more as an archival site as opposed to being a more "powerful" digital medium. I think it would be best if burzum.com accept that they must take the back seat, because frankly no one cares which site wins this little game, we only care for accuracy of information and right now (and for some time anyway) burzum.org has been the place to go to seek accurate information on Burzum and Vikernes.
At the end of the day, if Vikernes has input into a website, that site is going to be far more accurate and official than any other.
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Stirring the Islamic Pot.
I support this march mentioned at the Sydney Morning Herald's website, but while everything it stands for is positive (and I have very little respect for Islamic "laws") I'm not sure I can see it actually doing anything positive than sticking another thorn into the side of an already provoked Muslim community in Sydney.
Muslims in Australia are having a hard enough time these days, but is this really the way to educate them with their integration into our society? By antagonising them?
There are many Muslims who are good people, and for those Muslim girls who are leading the way for change by joining Surf Lifesaving Australia, I see this march as an ignorant slap to their own faces by the very people they are trying to balance life out with.
Surely there are better ways to send a message than sticking a finger up and provoking an angry Islamic response:
Mosque to get police guard for bikini rally
POLICE have been asked to protect Australia's largest mosque next weekend because of concerns that a bikini march staged to coincide with the anniversary of the Cronulla riots may get out of control.
The caretaker of Lakemba Mosque, the Lebanese Muslim Association, says it is taking no risks, requesting at least 32 police officers to protect the place of worship on Saturday and Sunday.
Association president Tom Zreik said he met police on several occasions to ensure there would be adequate numbers of officers present to defuse problems and arrest troublemakers.
"We are treating this as something that is funny and hilarious but also taking precautions," Mr Zreika said of the bikini march. "Some people may see this as provocation and the last thing that we want is to see anyone being attacked."
The organiser, Melbourne grandmother Christine Hawkins, has asked women nationally to dress in bikinis and colourful beachwear and rally outside large mosques to show their disgust at comments by leading Muslim cleric, Sheik Taj el-Din al Hilaly, who likened women to "uncovered meat".
A white supremacist website has promoted the march. Members of Sydney's Muslim community began raising their concerns last week, with hundreds joining an internet discussion to find a "peaceful avenue" to protect their mosque.
Many Muslim women suggested joining the march in their hijabs and burqas to voice their outrage at comments made by Senator Bronwyn Bishop and Prime Minister John Howard about the way they dress. "We're really asking people not to bother coming to the mosque," Mr Zreika said.
"All this is doing is degrading women and giving men a great excuse to have a perv. There are better ways women can express their concerns."
In Cronulla yesterday members of the Lakembaroos sports club attended a barbecue at North Cronulla Surf Club to mark the progress of more than 20 Muslim lifesavers, who are training for their bronze medallions.
"If we didn't have the events of Cronulla last December in the back of our minds, we wouldn't even be conscious that the people here were of Lebanese background," Community Relations Commission chairman Stepan Kerkyasharian said.
"They look Australian, they are taking part in an Australian activity and you have to ask 'what's the problem?"'
The training is an initiative of Surf Life Saving Australia.
Muslims in Australia are having a hard enough time these days, but is this really the way to educate them with their integration into our society? By antagonising them?
There are many Muslims who are good people, and for those Muslim girls who are leading the way for change by joining Surf Lifesaving Australia, I see this march as an ignorant slap to their own faces by the very people they are trying to balance life out with.
Surely there are better ways to send a message than sticking a finger up and provoking an angry Islamic response:
Mosque to get police guard for bikini rally
POLICE have been asked to protect Australia's largest mosque next weekend because of concerns that a bikini march staged to coincide with the anniversary of the Cronulla riots may get out of control.
The caretaker of Lakemba Mosque, the Lebanese Muslim Association, says it is taking no risks, requesting at least 32 police officers to protect the place of worship on Saturday and Sunday.
Association president Tom Zreik said he met police on several occasions to ensure there would be adequate numbers of officers present to defuse problems and arrest troublemakers.
"We are treating this as something that is funny and hilarious but also taking precautions," Mr Zreika said of the bikini march. "Some people may see this as provocation and the last thing that we want is to see anyone being attacked."
The organiser, Melbourne grandmother Christine Hawkins, has asked women nationally to dress in bikinis and colourful beachwear and rally outside large mosques to show their disgust at comments by leading Muslim cleric, Sheik Taj el-Din al Hilaly, who likened women to "uncovered meat".
A white supremacist website has promoted the march. Members of Sydney's Muslim community began raising their concerns last week, with hundreds joining an internet discussion to find a "peaceful avenue" to protect their mosque.
Many Muslim women suggested joining the march in their hijabs and burqas to voice their outrage at comments made by Senator Bronwyn Bishop and Prime Minister John Howard about the way they dress. "We're really asking people not to bother coming to the mosque," Mr Zreika said.
"All this is doing is degrading women and giving men a great excuse to have a perv. There are better ways women can express their concerns."
In Cronulla yesterday members of the Lakembaroos sports club attended a barbecue at North Cronulla Surf Club to mark the progress of more than 20 Muslim lifesavers, who are training for their bronze medallions.
"If we didn't have the events of Cronulla last December in the back of our minds, we wouldn't even be conscious that the people here were of Lebanese background," Community Relations Commission chairman Stepan Kerkyasharian said.
"They look Australian, they are taking part in an Australian activity and you have to ask 'what's the problem?"'
The training is an initiative of Surf Life Saving Australia.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Resigned.. Or Seeing The Light?
It's not easy to wander about this little world and think about the experiences and people you've had the memorable experiences with.
More often, these people have come and gone - few remain to become an important part of your life, your circle of friends, no matter how big or small.
When you've come to a point where it seems like it was time to let another dry leaf descend from the tree, you let it fall, not thinking too much about it other than that it is simply another leaf.
Is it important to let these leaves fall? Or should you nuture the tree, keeping it in good health, to make the leaves stronger, longer lasting?
Should I finally let go and resign, thinking my judgment was right? Or should I accept the olive branch, let go of my anger instead, risking blaming myself yet again?
More often, these people have come and gone - few remain to become an important part of your life, your circle of friends, no matter how big or small.
When you've come to a point where it seems like it was time to let another dry leaf descend from the tree, you let it fall, not thinking too much about it other than that it is simply another leaf.
Is it important to let these leaves fall? Or should you nuture the tree, keeping it in good health, to make the leaves stronger, longer lasting?
Should I finally let go and resign, thinking my judgment was right? Or should I accept the olive branch, let go of my anger instead, risking blaming myself yet again?
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Experimental rock is NOT extreme music.
There are people who give metal a bad rep or pigeonhole it, but love to proclaim how "out there" or apparently "extreme" the bands they like are simply because they use electronics or guitar to create noise.
Please, f**k off. These people have no concept of extremism in music. Extremism in music embodies not only the music, but the philosophy as well. Don't tell me that Deathspell Omega's amazingly dark music combined with their deeply researched lyrics is tame in comparison to Sigur Ros.
In my opinion, and as a generalised statement, I strongly feel that metal is the only true haven for music extremity today. Outside of it is experimentation, but not extremism. Rule-bending, not rule-defying.
No way.
Please, f**k off. These people have no concept of extremism in music. Extremism in music embodies not only the music, but the philosophy as well. Don't tell me that Deathspell Omega's amazingly dark music combined with their deeply researched lyrics is tame in comparison to Sigur Ros.
In my opinion, and as a generalised statement, I strongly feel that metal is the only true haven for music extremity today. Outside of it is experimentation, but not extremism. Rule-bending, not rule-defying.
No way.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Festival of the Dead 2006: Recap
On Saturday November 4th, two weeks after Megadeth, was the first Festival Of The Dead.
Boasting NeObliviscaris (VIC), Lord (NSW) and headliners Nevermore (US) among others, this was to be a major event on the Sydney metal circuit, going over two nights. The dates had some people pretty upset as one of the shows clashed with Metal For The Brain in Canberra. As a result, some forumers went to that event instead. Still, the turnout for FOTD was a good one.
My main reasons to attend FOTD were for Nevermore, to cheer on for Lord, and also to finally see for the first time, NeObliviscaris, with whose violinist I've had a few short chats online with regarding Early Music styles. The plan was to spend time with him (Atheny) and shoot some photos perhaps from even the stage.
On the morning of FOTD, Tompeth posted an urgent thread on the UM Lord forum: NeObliviscaris had been forced to cancel FOTD at the last minute due to time restrictions imposed by the Gaelic Club. This had myself among others EXTREMELY angry at this unfortunate change in events, including Tompeth, Ikil and NeObliviscaris themselves.
I found myself quickly losing enthusiasm to go, but eventually, I decided there was a higher purpose: to see Sash, deathgate and Pipsqeek again (with whom I was overdue for a good chat with). Gigantour had left me on a social high I've not had for some years, I wanted that to continue with FOTD with these great people.
I arrived at the pub down the road from the Gaelic late and as I approached I saw the waving arms of deathgate through the window. "You're two hours late!" was actually heartwarming, knowing that some people were looking forward to getting together again was a great indicator for the night.
So here I bumped into pipsqeek, deathgate, Sash and his sister, Sash's friend Ben (complete with his mighty Death t-shirt), mightyravendark, Emmz, her best friend Megan, and a few others.
Not being used to hanging out in groups anymore (let alone people in general it seems!) I felt a little nervous, so a couple of beers later I felt more relaxed and ended up having a great opening chat with pipsqeek (either that or I just kept waffling on).
pipsqeek didn't have a ticket, and given he'd been insistent on wanting to catch up at this event (and I'd also hassled him to make sure he came), I didn't want the chance of him not being able to get in given how far he'd travelled, so I pushed for us all to line up so we could make sure he'd be with us.
Eventually, the doors opened and we got pipsqeek in. Wandering in I started to think about food (coupled with the fact that I had already had 2 drinks and I don't really drink anymore, food was a safe idea). pipsqeek myself, Ben and mightyravendark and Sash (who joined us as dinner started - funny that!) ended up scoffing down a wonderful $5 fish and chips meal at the pub as a result, and through this informal dinner I realised that pipsqeek and sash are possibly two of the most interesting people I have met in some time. Not only that, but Sash can eat faster than than you can find porn on BitTorrent!
The conversation had turned somewhat deeper and away from music, rather more towards life and experiences. It was refreshing to finally meet other metalheads not only in my own age range, but also of various ethnic backgrounds too (it became very apparent later in the night that a whole bunch of us were immigrants or wogs, and funnily enough our group was probably the woggiest!) As the night went on, various points about families and cultures came up. I loved this strange aspect being present at a metal gig, it was comforting. Most importantly, I realised that I had bumped into and possibly well befriended some really lovely people, and this drove my energy for the rest of the night.
As a result less of the night involved watching the bands (excluding Lord and Nevermore) as it did chatting, drinking and hanging out. I loosened up and found myself feeling like I was making friends for the first time in years (I had wished that Alex had been here too). It felt unusual given I've been hibernating for so long, but I felt proud of myself for pushing myself to do this.
Around this time, I got to spend some time with Ikil, who among the younger metalheads I've come to know, has a really mature outlook and interesting views. The poor guy was exhausted - having a stressful job, combined with having gone to Canberra to see NeObliviscaris and come back to Sydney in time for FOTD. It was great to see him once again, albeit he could barely keep his eyes open and stand up. Still, we managed to keep chatting about why Black Metal simply just f**king rules!
The Lord show was excellent - we all paused for this one! Lord Tim and company had a great time and the crowd loved every second of them (I think more responsive to them than to Nevermore), waving their hands about, singing at the top of their voices and bouncing a giant beach ball around the crowd. I managed to get some nice photos of their show, as well as some even better video footage (stills directly below).
Outside it had started to rain harder, but we continued to hang out out there until Nevermore came on.
The response for Nevermore was also fantastic, but the show was marred by excruciatingly loud volume. I have never heard a show so loud - a number of people went outside because it was too much to deal with, even people with earplugs weren't coping. By the time Nevermore were halfway through their set and having filmed some of it, I decided to simply stay outside, it was just too much, my ears were killing me! (I think I will take up pipsqeek's idea of custom made earplugs after all.)
Outside I found pipsqeek, Sash and deathgate (who had been quiet for ages given she was quite smashed the poor lass... she had a permanent smile on her face though!) talking to some guy who had some of the funniest and outrageous comments I had ever heard about... everything. From music, to band members to people on Cityrail trains we all laughed minute after minute.
I wish I could remember the jokes, but Sash and this guy (who somehow traded his Dimmu longsleeve for mightravendark's Immortal one) constantly told muso jokes about guitarists and drummers. I can't recall the last time I laughed this hard - my stomach and throat were sore the next day!
By now FOTD had ended and people were filing out into the rain. I was exhausted... not used to drinking so long and being up so late, I was ready to go home... but before I knew it, Sash was dragging me up the road to the pub where half of the gang already were seated and digging into food. I can't remember how, but a small heated political discussion with Sash and Ben took place. This was really refreshing and proved that I had finally found some people that I could chat to other than how pissed they were (trait of the younger kids) or how much money they have and how cool they are (trait of everyone who lives in Bondi).
Eventually I reached my limit: I wanted to get get home and sleep so I reluctantly signed off leaving the rest of the gang inside chatting away (and apparently there until around 5am that morning!).
Festival of the Dead was a great event (but not musically in my opinion - I can only take so much cheese in a single lifetime as this ended up being a Power Metal event). But as a social event, FOTD served a great purpose. I feel like I made some really great new friends, and I hope I get to see them again soon.
When I got home I sat in bed for a while looking at all the great photos and footage I got. It was strange to wake up the next day at around 11am, feeling dry from alcohol but also with a sore throat from chatting so much. I couldn't get the grin off my face for a while :)
Boasting NeObliviscaris (VIC), Lord (NSW) and headliners Nevermore (US) among others, this was to be a major event on the Sydney metal circuit, going over two nights. The dates had some people pretty upset as one of the shows clashed with Metal For The Brain in Canberra. As a result, some forumers went to that event instead. Still, the turnout for FOTD was a good one.
My main reasons to attend FOTD were for Nevermore, to cheer on for Lord, and also to finally see for the first time, NeObliviscaris, with whose violinist I've had a few short chats online with regarding Early Music styles. The plan was to spend time with him (Atheny) and shoot some photos perhaps from even the stage.
On the morning of FOTD, Tompeth posted an urgent thread on the UM Lord forum: NeObliviscaris had been forced to cancel FOTD at the last minute due to time restrictions imposed by the Gaelic Club. This had myself among others EXTREMELY angry at this unfortunate change in events, including Tompeth, Ikil and NeObliviscaris themselves.
I found myself quickly losing enthusiasm to go, but eventually, I decided there was a higher purpose: to see Sash, deathgate and Pipsqeek again (with whom I was overdue for a good chat with). Gigantour had left me on a social high I've not had for some years, I wanted that to continue with FOTD with these great people.
I arrived at the pub down the road from the Gaelic late and as I approached I saw the waving arms of deathgate through the window. "You're two hours late!" was actually heartwarming, knowing that some people were looking forward to getting together again was a great indicator for the night.
So here I bumped into pipsqeek, deathgate, Sash and his sister, Sash's friend Ben (complete with his mighty Death t-shirt), mightyravendark, Emmz, her best friend Megan, and a few others.
Not being used to hanging out in groups anymore (let alone people in general it seems!) I felt a little nervous, so a couple of beers later I felt more relaxed and ended up having a great opening chat with pipsqeek (either that or I just kept waffling on).
pipsqeek didn't have a ticket, and given he'd been insistent on wanting to catch up at this event (and I'd also hassled him to make sure he came), I didn't want the chance of him not being able to get in given how far he'd travelled, so I pushed for us all to line up so we could make sure he'd be with us.
Eventually, the doors opened and we got pipsqeek in. Wandering in I started to think about food (coupled with the fact that I had already had 2 drinks and I don't really drink anymore, food was a safe idea). pipsqeek myself, Ben and mightyravendark and Sash (who joined us as dinner started - funny that!) ended up scoffing down a wonderful $5 fish and chips meal at the pub as a result, and through this informal dinner I realised that pipsqeek and sash are possibly two of the most interesting people I have met in some time. Not only that, but Sash can eat faster than than you can find porn on BitTorrent!
The conversation had turned somewhat deeper and away from music, rather more towards life and experiences. It was refreshing to finally meet other metalheads not only in my own age range, but also of various ethnic backgrounds too (it became very apparent later in the night that a whole bunch of us were immigrants or wogs, and funnily enough our group was probably the woggiest!) As the night went on, various points about families and cultures came up. I loved this strange aspect being present at a metal gig, it was comforting. Most importantly, I realised that I had bumped into and possibly well befriended some really lovely people, and this drove my energy for the rest of the night.
As a result less of the night involved watching the bands (excluding Lord and Nevermore) as it did chatting, drinking and hanging out. I loosened up and found myself feeling like I was making friends for the first time in years (I had wished that Alex had been here too). It felt unusual given I've been hibernating for so long, but I felt proud of myself for pushing myself to do this.
Around this time, I got to spend some time with Ikil, who among the younger metalheads I've come to know, has a really mature outlook and interesting views. The poor guy was exhausted - having a stressful job, combined with having gone to Canberra to see NeObliviscaris and come back to Sydney in time for FOTD. It was great to see him once again, albeit he could barely keep his eyes open and stand up. Still, we managed to keep chatting about why Black Metal simply just f**king rules!
The Lord show was excellent - we all paused for this one! Lord Tim and company had a great time and the crowd loved every second of them (I think more responsive to them than to Nevermore), waving their hands about, singing at the top of their voices and bouncing a giant beach ball around the crowd. I managed to get some nice photos of their show, as well as some even better video footage (stills directly below).
Outside it had started to rain harder, but we continued to hang out out there until Nevermore came on.
The response for Nevermore was also fantastic, but the show was marred by excruciatingly loud volume. I have never heard a show so loud - a number of people went outside because it was too much to deal with, even people with earplugs weren't coping. By the time Nevermore were halfway through their set and having filmed some of it, I decided to simply stay outside, it was just too much, my ears were killing me! (I think I will take up pipsqeek's idea of custom made earplugs after all.)
Outside I found pipsqeek, Sash and deathgate (who had been quiet for ages given she was quite smashed the poor lass... she had a permanent smile on her face though!) talking to some guy who had some of the funniest and outrageous comments I had ever heard about... everything. From music, to band members to people on Cityrail trains we all laughed minute after minute.
I wish I could remember the jokes, but Sash and this guy (who somehow traded his Dimmu longsleeve for mightravendark's Immortal one) constantly told muso jokes about guitarists and drummers. I can't recall the last time I laughed this hard - my stomach and throat were sore the next day!
By now FOTD had ended and people were filing out into the rain. I was exhausted... not used to drinking so long and being up so late, I was ready to go home... but before I knew it, Sash was dragging me up the road to the pub where half of the gang already were seated and digging into food. I can't remember how, but a small heated political discussion with Sash and Ben took place. This was really refreshing and proved that I had finally found some people that I could chat to other than how pissed they were (trait of the younger kids) or how much money they have and how cool they are (trait of everyone who lives in Bondi).
Eventually I reached my limit: I wanted to get get home and sleep so I reluctantly signed off leaving the rest of the gang inside chatting away (and apparently there until around 5am that morning!).
Festival of the Dead was a great event (but not musically in my opinion - I can only take so much cheese in a single lifetime as this ended up being a Power Metal event). But as a social event, FOTD served a great purpose. I feel like I made some really great new friends, and I hope I get to see them again soon.
When I got home I sat in bed for a while looking at all the great photos and footage I got. It was strange to wake up the next day at around 11am, feeling dry from alcohol but also with a sore throat from chatting so much. I couldn't get the grin off my face for a while :)
Gigantour 2006: Recap
On Sunday October 22nd, I finally saw a band I have been waiting for since 1988. Along with Iron Maiden, Megadeth stands among the highest quality metal ever.
As a metal fan, I wanted to achieve to two major things: to see Iron Maiden live (did this in 1992), and to see Megadeth live (Sunday 3 weeks ago).
Fox Studios was packed with so many metalheads that the place was almost devoid of any person wearing a colour other than black. All kinds of metalheads standing proud in band shirts, chatting about metal , drinking with friends or making new friends.
I found Tompeth in the line at the Hordern. We chatted Black Metal for a bit, and then I moved over the to the pub across the road to meet up with Stormster and his gang. I was a bit nervous, having lost the knack of meeting so many new people at once. Things settled quickly, and Stormster, his friends and I got chatting quickly. As we were leaving the pub we bumped into some members of Lord and more forum members, and my barrage of photographs began.
This first photo I took alone captured a great spirit of everyone's excitement for Gigantour: I gathered everyone together (almost 10 or so of us), and got someone else to take the pic. As we awkwardly shuffled about (the pub was full to the brim), someone at a table infront screamed at us "TRUE METAL!!!" and we all yelled and growled, goat signs held high! The photo came out perfectly!
The line-up outside the Hordern was huge. It stretched all the way around into the street behind the hall, and there we waited for some time as we finally got to the front gate of the Hordern where we placed out bags into a cloak room. After doing a merchandise raid for my Megadeth tour shirt and hat, we ran inside just in time to see the brutalising performance of Angela Gossow and Arch Enemy.
The crowd was a living mass of bodies and flying hair. While not really my style, Arch Enemy's show was great, I can see how a lot of the young kids love them, and why Arch Enemy deserve respect. Gossow is a fantastic (and gorgeous) frontwoman. Soulfly was on next, but I wasn't up for them. Megadeth was my main reason for attending, so I decided to head back out to the courtyard and see if I could find any more forum members.
Over the next hour, I met deathgate, Sash, pipsqeek, mightyravendark, ladymessiah, Emmz and a horde of other people (everyone pictured below). deathgate and I got on instantly, and her husband sash is one of the biggest personalities I've met in recent times (little was I to know that I would bond even stronger with pipsqeek, sash and deathgate two weeks later at another event, I love these guys!). So after a few more drinks(!) and many more photos with everyone, my finale of a journey started back in 1988 was about to come: Megadeth!!!
Running into the hall with ladymessiah (who I lost as she had to run to the ladies), I ran into Stormster and his friends who were around 10-20 metres dead centre from the front of the stage. After chatting to them for a while, I decided to take the plunge, and made my way to around 2 metres from the front of the stage, a little off to the left...
... and before I knew it, the show had begun! Mustaine and co erupted on the stage, and the mosh began. Hair flying everywhere, bodies twisting and writhing in a big collective mass, people rolling and being tossed above the crowd as they surfed. The heat was increasing rapidly, before I knew it was covered in sweat and gasping for the cool air above the crowd, while headbanging my ass off and rapidly losing my voice.
After a couple of songs, I pulled out my camera and shot some great footage of Mustaine in action. I stayed in the pit until around halfway through the set, and decided to back out due to a sore neck and being too hot. I moved until I was around 9-10 metres from the front of the stage. Putting my glasses on so I could see clearly, I silently watched the rest of this amazing show.
I couldn't stop grinning the whole time, and I found myself gawking at Mustaine, just as I did with Iron Maiden in 1992, realising that I was finally watching this amazing band, that they were here! Every song was fantasticly executed and Mustaine was having a great time. It was a fitting finale to a long two-part journey I've been waiting to complete for almost 20 years. I clutched my Megadeth merch with pride!
After the finale, to which we were treated to an encore with, a group of us emerged from the show tired, drenched but victorious!
We were all exhausted (and some of us drunk), but I overall deeply satisfied with the outcome of this fantastic and long overdue event. Mustaine has already started to make plans for Gigantour 2007, and I for one will NOT miss it because Gigantour 2006 was incredible. Electric, everyone holding their breath, it was almost a confirmation that Metal has finally returned to it's place in the spotlight here in Australia.
Counting down the months to Gigantour 2007!
As a metal fan, I wanted to achieve to two major things: to see Iron Maiden live (did this in 1992), and to see Megadeth live (Sunday 3 weeks ago).
Fox Studios was packed with so many metalheads that the place was almost devoid of any person wearing a colour other than black. All kinds of metalheads standing proud in band shirts, chatting about metal , drinking with friends or making new friends.
I found Tompeth in the line at the Hordern. We chatted Black Metal for a bit, and then I moved over the to the pub across the road to meet up with Stormster and his gang. I was a bit nervous, having lost the knack of meeting so many new people at once. Things settled quickly, and Stormster, his friends and I got chatting quickly. As we were leaving the pub we bumped into some members of Lord and more forum members, and my barrage of photographs began.
This first photo I took alone captured a great spirit of everyone's excitement for Gigantour: I gathered everyone together (almost 10 or so of us), and got someone else to take the pic. As we awkwardly shuffled about (the pub was full to the brim), someone at a table infront screamed at us "TRUE METAL!!!" and we all yelled and growled, goat signs held high! The photo came out perfectly!The line-up outside the Hordern was huge. It stretched all the way around into the street behind the hall, and there we waited for some time as we finally got to the front gate of the Hordern where we placed out bags into a cloak room. After doing a merchandise raid for my Megadeth tour shirt and hat, we ran inside just in time to see the brutalising performance of Angela Gossow and Arch Enemy.
The crowd was a living mass of bodies and flying hair. While not really my style, Arch Enemy's show was great, I can see how a lot of the young kids love them, and why Arch Enemy deserve respect. Gossow is a fantastic (and gorgeous) frontwoman. Soulfly was on next, but I wasn't up for them. Megadeth was my main reason for attending, so I decided to head back out to the courtyard and see if I could find any more forum members.
Over the next hour, I met deathgate, Sash, pipsqeek, mightyravendark, ladymessiah, Emmz and a horde of other people (everyone pictured below). deathgate and I got on instantly, and her husband sash is one of the biggest personalities I've met in recent times (little was I to know that I would bond even stronger with pipsqeek, sash and deathgate two weeks later at another event, I love these guys!). So after a few more drinks(!) and many more photos with everyone, my finale of a journey started back in 1988 was about to come: Megadeth!!!
Running into the hall with ladymessiah (who I lost as she had to run to the ladies), I ran into Stormster and his friends who were around 10-20 metres dead centre from the front of the stage. After chatting to them for a while, I decided to take the plunge, and made my way to around 2 metres from the front of the stage, a little off to the left...
... and before I knew it, the show had begun! Mustaine and co erupted on the stage, and the mosh began. Hair flying everywhere, bodies twisting and writhing in a big collective mass, people rolling and being tossed above the crowd as they surfed. The heat was increasing rapidly, before I knew it was covered in sweat and gasping for the cool air above the crowd, while headbanging my ass off and rapidly losing my voice.
After a couple of songs, I pulled out my camera and shot some great footage of Mustaine in action. I stayed in the pit until around halfway through the set, and decided to back out due to a sore neck and being too hot. I moved until I was around 9-10 metres from the front of the stage. Putting my glasses on so I could see clearly, I silently watched the rest of this amazing show.
I couldn't stop grinning the whole time, and I found myself gawking at Mustaine, just as I did with Iron Maiden in 1992, realising that I was finally watching this amazing band, that they were here! Every song was fantasticly executed and Mustaine was having a great time. It was a fitting finale to a long two-part journey I've been waiting to complete for almost 20 years. I clutched my Megadeth merch with pride!
After the finale, to which we were treated to an encore with, a group of us emerged from the show tired, drenched but victorious!
We were all exhausted (and some of us drunk), but I overall deeply satisfied with the outcome of this fantastic and long overdue event. Mustaine has already started to make plans for Gigantour 2007, and I for one will NOT miss it because Gigantour 2006 was incredible. Electric, everyone holding their breath, it was almost a confirmation that Metal has finally returned to it's place in the spotlight here in Australia.
Counting down the months to Gigantour 2007!
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Heaven Ablaze
Some time ago, whilst searching for Nortt's "Ligfærd" album, I came across an Australian mailorder label called "Heaven Ablaze".
Run by a friendly gent named Steve, Heaven Ablaze stocks true underground Black Metal releases as well as various other CD's, vinyl, tapes and merch.
Don't expect your more "well known" titles here - the speciality is more obscure, darker and more direct Black Metal hordes, including Heaven Ablaze's own roster along with those from Total Holocaust Records in Sweden.
Heaven Ablaze's stock is well priced, Steve is very helpful and quick in response (unlike other labels who sometimes don't even reply to enquiries!) I highly recommend his site for anyone looking to acquire true underground Black Metal, while also paying excellent prices.
Official Site: Heaven Ablaze Records.
Run by a friendly gent named Steve, Heaven Ablaze stocks true underground Black Metal releases as well as various other CD's, vinyl, tapes and merch.
Don't expect your more "well known" titles here - the speciality is more obscure, darker and more direct Black Metal hordes, including Heaven Ablaze's own roster along with those from Total Holocaust Records in Sweden.
Heaven Ablaze's stock is well priced, Steve is very helpful and quick in response (unlike other labels who sometimes don't even reply to enquiries!) I highly recommend his site for anyone looking to acquire true underground Black Metal, while also paying excellent prices.
Official Site: Heaven Ablaze Records.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Meeting A Musical Genius.
On Sunday, Linda and I had decided to walk over to Gordon's Bay as the weather was just beautiful.
As we walked past Ice Bergs on the way to Tamarama, Linda said to me "look! There's your favourite Harpsichordist!". I didn't know who she was talking about, so I stopped and looked behind me, confused. She pointed and said "Paul Dyer! From the Brandenburg Orchestra! Go say hi!".
Paul Dyer
For a moment I stopped, a bit too stunned to do anything. I'm always nervous when I have a chance to meet an artist or musician, thinking that all I want to do is show that artist or musician that their work really touches and effects me in a deep way - it get their spirits high I think, and gives them more creative energy if you can show your appreciation to them.
So, taking a deep breath, I ran back to where I finally saw him, checked it was actually him (I'd look like a total idiot if it wasn't!), and then said hello. I think I shocked him at first, being a 6 foot plus curry muncher with a Megadeth hat on!
After my first sentence, he just totally got into conversation. I had a remarkable little chat with him, looking over the ocean. One thing was very clear - his positive energy which comes through his music is very real. He was really lovely to chat to, and totally down to earth.
Eventually I decided I didn't want to take up his time too much (the poor guy mentioned he had Harpsichord practice in the afternoon, and all he felt like doing for the day was taking it easy in the sun)... so I said my goodbyes and wished him all the best with the ABO and dashed off.
That was definitely the highlight of my day - I finally got to meet this amazing man, a genius of Sydney Baroque! Thanks Paul for taking the time to chat to a passionate fan!
As we walked past Ice Bergs on the way to Tamarama, Linda said to me "look! There's your favourite Harpsichordist!". I didn't know who she was talking about, so I stopped and looked behind me, confused. She pointed and said "Paul Dyer! From the Brandenburg Orchestra! Go say hi!".
Paul Dyer
For a moment I stopped, a bit too stunned to do anything. I'm always nervous when I have a chance to meet an artist or musician, thinking that all I want to do is show that artist or musician that their work really touches and effects me in a deep way - it get their spirits high I think, and gives them more creative energy if you can show your appreciation to them.
So, taking a deep breath, I ran back to where I finally saw him, checked it was actually him (I'd look like a total idiot if it wasn't!), and then said hello. I think I shocked him at first, being a 6 foot plus curry muncher with a Megadeth hat on!
After my first sentence, he just totally got into conversation. I had a remarkable little chat with him, looking over the ocean. One thing was very clear - his positive energy which comes through his music is very real. He was really lovely to chat to, and totally down to earth.
Eventually I decided I didn't want to take up his time too much (the poor guy mentioned he had Harpsichord practice in the afternoon, and all he felt like doing for the day was taking it easy in the sun)... so I said my goodbyes and wished him all the best with the ABO and dashed off.
That was definitely the highlight of my day - I finally got to meet this amazing man, a genius of Sydney Baroque! Thanks Paul for taking the time to chat to a passionate fan!
Monday, October 30, 2006
Polar Opposites
Sometimes I wonder if reading Nikki Gemmell's new book one minute, to putting on my headphones and listening to Satanic Black Metal the next is a bit odd to most, but yet so natural to me.
Am I strange?
Am I strange?
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Drudkh: Songs of Grief and Solitude
After their mindcrushingly brilliant album "Blood In Our Wells", Drudkh have returned with part 1 of their 2 set series of albums. "Songs of Grief and Solitude" shows their acoustic side, with folk elements but the unmistakable Drudkh chracteristics:
"DRUDKH's fifth album ventures into acoustic territory, offering ancient, sorrowful, Ukrainian folk songs. Their radical, conservative revolutionary ideas here establish a dynamic counterpoint with the serene, earthy, primitivist atmosphere of the music. A truly unique item, different from their other albums, yet wholly consistent with the conception of this stellar band." I'll post a review in the next week or two!
Sunday, October 15, 2006
Feelings on Negură Bunget's "Om".
It is with "struggling perception" that I write these words in the context of this latest Negură Bunget release - "OM" is a complex and layered piece of work and I feel reviewing it would serve an injustice. Music reviews tend to "trap" music by defining it, and I feel this conflicts with "OM" because it's a piece of work which I consider one of the most "vast" I have ever heard.
"
This is not an "album": after listening to it countless times, watching the DVD which accompanies the music, accounting for the bands spirituality, combined with the complete visual presentation, I will say that "
"
This release is almost "sacred", it is highly conceptualised. Every note played or sung, every drum beat every growl or shriek and every ambient interlude seems to have a clear metaphysical and natural expressive purpose. The album seems to be written and performed in such a way that it is like air: everywhere, flowing through everything, almost physically touchable, having colour and yet having none.
Without being able to decipher the lyrics, I can only draw upon my feelings: this music is about cosmic life. It is about existence on a spiritually vast, yet physically small level. Our physically minute place in the universe, and the vast size of our metaphysical selves. This is what the music, using Black Metal (as a foundation only) speaks to me.
I say Black Metal is used as a foundation because this is where Negură Bunget's path has logically led to. Black Metal influences are still there as they were on "'N Crugu Bradului", but now the music has grown into something with more breath, and funnily enough, I think we first got hint of this higher maturity on "'N Crugu Bradului".
There are more sweeping (note, NOT melodic) elements to the music, we are treated to more ambient soundscapes, sounds of nature itself and excellent use of folk instruments as Negură Bunget have never shown us before. For those seeking the Negură Bunget Black Metal elements, fear not, they are still present, but now balanced with a majestic element to the music, a strikingly obvious and higher maturity delivered via exceptional musical execution.
"
The DVD component of "OM" (and I do consider it to be part of "
I highly suggest that people watch the DVD first, and THEN listen to "
It has been a long wait, but a wait that has been worth it like few albums have. This is not for the faint of heart, nor for the those seeking mindless aggression from their music.
"
An outstanding piece of work.
10/10
Official Website http://www.negurabunget.com/
Webstore for purchase http://www.auralmusic.com/
Saturday, October 14, 2006
The return of... Tåke!!!
Tåke's mindchild Hoest has finally made a statement following his release from jail:
"Yeah, I've been out of jail for a while. Corax [TAAKE guitarist], however, still has a few years left of his sentence.
"At the moment I'm putting together a new lineup. There has been talk about a European tour next year. In the meantime, check out TAAKE's split 10" with GIGANTOMACHY [featuring Corax], soon available from Agonia Records."
"Yeah, I've been out of jail for a while. Corax [TAAKE guitarist], however, still has a few years left of his sentence.
"At the moment I'm putting together a new lineup. There has been talk about a European tour next year. In the meantime, check out TAAKE's split 10" with GIGANTOMACHY [featuring Corax], soon available from Agonia Records."
Official Website: http://taake.zwap.org/
Saturday, October 07, 2006
"Om" - Complexity at it's most beautiful.
The joys of the internet: I have placed my order of Negură Bunget's new album "OM" thanks to Code666's manager Emi's frequent postings on the UM Forum and my copy should be arriving pretty soon.
I have heard the album. In some ways it's no surprise: Negură Bunget's material is always highly creative, intelligent, mature and most importantly, original.
"OM" is something I believe to be a cruicial point in their career: Negură Bunget has been growing, maturing through each release. These are not subtle periods of trasience either, it is obvious, breathing and very alive.
With each release, Negură Bunget has grown and expanded in ways most bands can only dream of. Their music is so unhindered by boundaries, that it is getting to the point of being unclassifiable (in a positive way). Their music has become avantgarde, but in a highly spiritual sense unlike any other Black Metal ever made.
"OM" will not be an easy release for most people to take in: many people look for the catchy riffs and chracteristic Black Metal traits which mark a release one of quality.
As with their previous works, this album holds few "traits" that can be deemed chracteristic or accessible. It is a typical Negură Bunget work of pure spiritual and cultural expression by a band which stands alone in it's own interpretation of Black Metal's future.
This is not an album for the faint of heart, it is not a piece of work which you can simply put on in the car. It is an album for contemplation whilst in solitude, during a forest or cliff walk, with the sun above and wind around you.
Unlike many works of metal these days, Negură Bunget's latest offering will require the serious Black Metal enthusiast to take time to absorb this piece of work, as that is what it is.
"OM" unlike few albums before it, has truly transcended the limits of Black Metal and moved Negură Bunget onwards into the realm of pure aural expression...
... for me, the next few days (let alone weeks), will be an exciting time to take in this truly marvelous and complex release of art.
I have heard the album. In some ways it's no surprise: Negură Bunget's material is always highly creative, intelligent, mature and most importantly, original.
"OM" is something I believe to be a cruicial point in their career: Negură Bunget has been growing, maturing through each release. These are not subtle periods of trasience either, it is obvious, breathing and very alive.
With each release, Negură Bunget has grown and expanded in ways most bands can only dream of. Their music is so unhindered by boundaries, that it is getting to the point of being unclassifiable (in a positive way). Their music has become avantgarde, but in a highly spiritual sense unlike any other Black Metal ever made.
"OM" will not be an easy release for most people to take in: many people look for the catchy riffs and chracteristic Black Metal traits which mark a release one of quality.
As with their previous works, this album holds few "traits" that can be deemed chracteristic or accessible. It is a typical Negură Bunget work of pure spiritual and cultural expression by a band which stands alone in it's own interpretation of Black Metal's future.
This is not an album for the faint of heart, it is not a piece of work which you can simply put on in the car. It is an album for contemplation whilst in solitude, during a forest or cliff walk, with the sun above and wind around you.
Unlike many works of metal these days, Negură Bunget's latest offering will require the serious Black Metal enthusiast to take time to absorb this piece of work, as that is what it is.
"OM" unlike few albums before it, has truly transcended the limits of Black Metal and moved Negură Bunget onwards into the realm of pure aural expression...
... for me, the next few days (let alone weeks), will be an exciting time to take in this truly marvelous and complex release of art.
Friday, September 29, 2006
Britpop Resurgence
I have no idea why... maybe it's because I've been cranking Oasis a lot lately, because now all my old Britpop albums that I was so fanatical about from 1994 onwards have come back out. I'm loving every second of it. I miss those days.
Saturday, September 23, 2006
"The Nod"
Found an interesting blog entry via news.com.au's website about the iNod, or simply, The Nod, applying to users or customers who share their product experience via a "niche market" view.
I find this occurs mainly with other people I see wearing a metal shirt of a *decent* band (i.e. a solid Black Metal band like Enslaved, as opposed to mainstream bullshit trash like Metallica or Slipknot [which all real metalheads know isn't real metal anyway]). A decent metal shirt gets the stare from other metalheads, and even a kind of "protect your clan" or "metalfan-bonding" kind of attitude (which I experienced at the beach other day infact by chatting to two guys who also had metal shirts on, yet I had never known the guys before).
An excerpt of "The Nod" is below:
Sit in a cafe with a Mac PowerBook, and chances are you'll get The Nod--that acknowledging, approving, knowing, we're-special look. MINI Cooper owners give each other The Nod at intersections. Display GNOME on your ThinkPad and you'll get The Nod. But run Windows on your Dell and you won't. (Never confuse the "I feel your pain" look with The Nod.)
More here.
I find this occurs mainly with other people I see wearing a metal shirt of a *decent* band (i.e. a solid Black Metal band like Enslaved, as opposed to mainstream bullshit trash like Metallica or Slipknot [which all real metalheads know isn't real metal anyway]). A decent metal shirt gets the stare from other metalheads, and even a kind of "protect your clan" or "metalfan-bonding" kind of attitude (which I experienced at the beach other day infact by chatting to two guys who also had metal shirts on, yet I had never known the guys before).
An excerpt of "The Nod" is below:
Sit in a cafe with a Mac PowerBook, and chances are you'll get The Nod--that acknowledging, approving, knowing, we're-special look. MINI Cooper owners give each other The Nod at intersections. Display GNOME on your ThinkPad and you'll get The Nod. But run Windows on your Dell and you won't. (Never confuse the "I feel your pain" look with The Nod.)
More here.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
NEGURA BUNGET Schedules CD-Release Show
Transylvanian black metallers NEGURA BUNGET will launch their new digipack release, "OM", with a live appearance on October 27 at the Old School Club in Bucharest, Romania. The band will perform a two-hour show featuring new and old songs."OM" was recorded at Negura Studio and features artwork by Encoil Mark.
The album is being released via Code666 Records as a deluxe eight-panel double digipack, including the regular CD and a bonus DVD disc featuring a visual presentation of the album, three new music videos, in-depth interview with the band, live footage, and special unreleased exclusive material.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
F**K Discriminatory Segratation
It's a shame that in this world we have to deal with people who choose to hate others.
People often forget that we are all truly one gigantic family, an internationally complex tree, all of the same root, regardless of colour, height, gender, religion or language.
It infuriates me that within my chosen genre of favourite music, idiots have to use their stupidity to make statements that are even more stupid. Riding on the coat tails of the mad, evil, murdering and unjust, all the while believing that their leaders have something positive to achieve.
What is the most treacherous of all, and incredibly illogical, is that National Socialists can create some of the most amazing Black Metal ever, and yet be so fucked in the head. Fuck you, you racist fuckers: you will never win. Your pathetic dream is already dead, multiculturalism is far too developed to fight against and is a return to the source: a human being... no different at its core to how we are today!
Pagan my ass! Real pagans are good, spiritual people, not hateful, demented pieces of shit! Fuck anyone who supports discriminatory segratation!
People often forget that we are all truly one gigantic family, an internationally complex tree, all of the same root, regardless of colour, height, gender, religion or language.
It infuriates me that within my chosen genre of favourite music, idiots have to use their stupidity to make statements that are even more stupid. Riding on the coat tails of the mad, evil, murdering and unjust, all the while believing that their leaders have something positive to achieve.
What is the most treacherous of all, and incredibly illogical, is that National Socialists can create some of the most amazing Black Metal ever, and yet be so fucked in the head. Fuck you, you racist fuckers: you will never win. Your pathetic dream is already dead, multiculturalism is far too developed to fight against and is a return to the source: a human being... no different at its core to how we are today!
Pagan my ass! Real pagans are good, spiritual people, not hateful, demented pieces of shit! Fuck anyone who supports discriminatory segratation!
Friday, September 15, 2006
IT People “Twice as Likely” to Wear Heavy Metal T-Shirts as Other People
"IT people are 34% more likely to wear a ponytail than others and 63% more likely to wear black jeans, according to survey of 1000 office workers."
I wonder where they get these ideas from? Do they concoct fake surveys? Is the company who conducted the survey so bored that it has to conduct a stupid survey like this? More here.
I wonder where they get these ideas from? Do they concoct fake surveys? Is the company who conducted the survey so bored that it has to conduct a stupid survey like this? More here.
eBay Banning Sale Of Black Metal Albums?
I love how outsider opinions on Black Metal place it above music like Rap in terms of negative effects on society. The below is courtesy of Blabbermouth:
Paula Hogan of MANIC Music & Distribution and Candlelight Records USA has contacted BLABBERMOUTH.NET to report that "eBay is [allegedly] currently starting a ban on black/extreme metal. A few of our vendors who have sizeable eBay stores are now finding their items pulled down by eBay directly. The list we have compiled so far that have been pulled for sale via any eBay stores or auctions is noted below. I'm sure there are more."
Added Dan Ferguson of Indianapolis, IN's Abyss Records: "I had a number of items removed and account suspended by selling black metal. It seems a group of so-called Christians have been reporting black metal bands (even though eBay has black metal as a search genre) as all racist and hateful and discriminatory."
The items that were allegedly removed by eBay because they "violated the eBay Hateful or Discriminatory policy" are as follows:
BURZUM - Complete 6 LP SET
EMPEROR - IX Equilibrium ORIG. LP
WOTANORDEN - From The.. CD
BURZUM - s/t / Aske DOUBLE LP
1349 - Beyond The CD
DARKTHRONE - Panzerfaust CD
MAYHEM - Collection 4 LP SET
PANTHEON - Krihapentswor CD
DARKTHRONE - Total Death CD
BURZUM - Draugen CD DVD
BURZUM - Daudi Baldrs LP
BURZUM - Daudi Baldrs CD
ZYKLON B - Blood Must Be Shed CD
ARMAGGEDON - Imperium CD
EMPEROR - Demo LP
1349 - Hellfire DOUBLE LP
DARKTHRONE - Hate Them CD
BURZUM - Filosofem DOUBLE LP
BURZUM - Hlidskjalf LP
BURZUM - Det Som Engang Var DIGI CD
CAMULOS / AINSHVAL - Split CD
BURZUM - Hvis Lyset Tar Oss LP
BURZUM - Det Som Engang Var LP
NOKTURNAL MORTUM - Weltanschauung CD
SATYRICON - Now, Diabolical CD
In eBay's e-mail to Ferguson explaining their decision to remove his listing, they write, "eBay doesn't permit sellers to list items that promote or glorify hatred, violence, or racial intolerance. Items that promote organizations with such views are also prohibited.
"eBay will judiciously disallow listings or items that promote or glorify hatred, violence or racial intolerance, or items that promote organizations (such as Nazis, neo-Nazis and Aryan Nation) with such views. This policy also applies to listings that offer shipping to countries where certain items may be illegal."
To review eBay's list of Prohibited, Questionable, and Infringing items, click here. To learn more about why eBay may remove listings, go to this location.
Paula Hogan of MANIC Music & Distribution and Candlelight Records USA has contacted BLABBERMOUTH.NET to report that "eBay is [allegedly] currently starting a ban on black/extreme metal. A few of our vendors who have sizeable eBay stores are now finding their items pulled down by eBay directly. The list we have compiled so far that have been pulled for sale via any eBay stores or auctions is noted below. I'm sure there are more."
Added Dan Ferguson of Indianapolis, IN's Abyss Records: "I had a number of items removed and account suspended by selling black metal. It seems a group of so-called Christians have been reporting black metal bands (even though eBay has black metal as a search genre) as all racist and hateful and discriminatory."
The items that were allegedly removed by eBay because they "violated the eBay Hateful or Discriminatory policy" are as follows:
BURZUM - Complete 6 LP SET
EMPEROR - IX Equilibrium ORIG. LP
WOTANORDEN - From The.. CD
BURZUM - s/t / Aske DOUBLE LP
1349 - Beyond The CD
DARKTHRONE - Panzerfaust CD
MAYHEM - Collection 4 LP SET
PANTHEON - Krihapentswor CD
DARKTHRONE - Total Death CD
BURZUM - Draugen CD DVD
BURZUM - Daudi Baldrs LP
BURZUM - Daudi Baldrs CD
ZYKLON B - Blood Must Be Shed CD
ARMAGGEDON - Imperium CD
EMPEROR - Demo LP
1349 - Hellfire DOUBLE LP
DARKTHRONE - Hate Them CD
BURZUM - Filosofem DOUBLE LP
BURZUM - Hlidskjalf LP
BURZUM - Det Som Engang Var DIGI CD
CAMULOS / AINSHVAL - Split CD
BURZUM - Hvis Lyset Tar Oss LP
BURZUM - Det Som Engang Var LP
NOKTURNAL MORTUM - Weltanschauung CD
SATYRICON - Now, Diabolical CD
In eBay's e-mail to Ferguson explaining their decision to remove his listing, they write, "eBay doesn't permit sellers to list items that promote or glorify hatred, violence, or racial intolerance. Items that promote organizations with such views are also prohibited.
"eBay will judiciously disallow listings or items that promote or glorify hatred, violence or racial intolerance, or items that promote organizations (such as Nazis, neo-Nazis and Aryan Nation) with such views. This policy also applies to listings that offer shipping to countries where certain items may be illegal."
To review eBay's list of Prohibited, Questionable, and Infringing items, click here. To learn more about why eBay may remove listings, go to this location.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
iTunes 7 : outrage for Windows users
Yesterday Apple released iTunes 7, coinciding with Jobs' conference announcments of new Nanos among other things.
After installing it, I quickly discovered that not only is it slow as hell, but results in sound distortion and crackling during song playback.
This is a real shame considering the new iTunes has some cool features (e.g. gapless playback, but we need this on the iPod itself, Apple!!!).
After chatting with Alex for a bit (not sure if he was experiencing the problem as he's on a Mac), I wandered about the Apple forums and found only one thread on the Windows sound problem.
Well, a look back at the forum today, and there sure as hell isn't just one thread, there's a few:
Topic: Major bug in iTunes 7
Topic: HUGE Problems with ITunes 7 with Windows
Topic: so many itunes 7 problems
Nice one Apple! You'd think a large company has the brains to at least TEST their software before releasing it. I guess we'll see an upgrade on iTunes in the next few days. In the meantime, I like many other Windows users will be sticking to iTunes 6 until the problems are fixed.
Edit/Update: looks like the Sydney Morning Herald picked up on all of this this afternoon as well:
Apple's new iTunes version branded a lemon
This is a real shame considering the new iTunes has some cool features (e.g. gapless playback, but we need this on the iPod itself, Apple!!!).
After chatting with Alex for a bit (not sure if he was experiencing the problem as he's on a Mac), I wandered about the Apple forums and found only one thread on the Windows sound problem.
Well, a look back at the forum today, and there sure as hell isn't just one thread, there's a few:
Topic: Major bug in iTunes 7
Topic: HUGE Problems with ITunes 7 with Windows
Topic: so many itunes 7 problems
Nice one Apple! You'd think a large company has the brains to at least TEST their software before releasing it. I guess we'll see an upgrade on iTunes in the next few days. In the meantime, I like many other Windows users will be sticking to iTunes 6 until the problems are fixed.
Edit/Update: looks like the Sydney Morning Herald picked up on all of this this afternoon as well:
Apple's new iTunes version branded a lemon
Borknagar: Origin
Sidenote: I'm a big fan of Vintersorg, his vocals are beautiful, but in recent years, I have felt his work has been getting experimental in ways which aren't really productive, most noticably in his vocal delivery and usage of keyboards (simplistic structures and terrible chosen effects).
His vocal work is best when he delivers sustained lines, not breaking them with falsetto (and I'm sorry, but his falsetto isn't one which sounds good because of his kind of mid-range natural voice). I wish he would concentrate more on his lower and middle registers, because his are fantastic and he has more power at this range too.
... however, he certainly delivers on Origin!
Also of note: Asgeir's outstanding contribution to drums on this album: he's been known for some time as one of Metal's better drummers, but this time we see him playing with more feeling, a slower and more creative pace. The results are fantastic.
Borknagar's music definitely has a unique style (I wish I knew the "technical" musical expressions to use). Brun has a writing style which is reminiscent of early Ulver in some respects and he does what he does well. He certainly has a unique stamp that is recognisable.
The usage of Western Art string instruments on Origin is very well done: over the years, I've noticed that when a band tends to use them, a string section constantly seems to be there for more aesthetic reasons, as opposed to actually providing proactive participation or another voice to the music.
Origin does not fall prey to this. The cellos and violins actually [I]drive [/I]the melodies on this album, which I feel for metal is actually quite a remarkable achievement. There are so many moments where I could hear that songs could be played entirely on a string ensemble and I think this factor is very deserving of a nod to Brun in respect.
Take for example "Human Nature", track 7 on the album: the chorus utilises an old technique (by Western Art Music standards but new for metal given the instruments used) of using short quick bowing strokes in conjunction with acoustic guitars to imitate heavy riffing common in metal. I think this is a very imaginative idea for an acoustic metal album and definitely applaudable - it creates a dramatic moment in the song, and most importantly provides us with what I truly feel is the first ever heavy entirely acoustic metal song.
For once on an acoustic metal album, the traditional "rock" instruments take a back seat, and the older instruments have an opportunity to drive the momentum of compositions on the album, and also provide a second or third voice for Borknagar to work with.
The album is actually quite complex, but I don't think the "average" metal listener is going to pick this up unless they have adequate experience with Baroque or classical music. Origin is an album of intelligence.
The acoustic version of Oceans Rise is a beautiful rendition of a Borknagar classic. They have not only produced an acoustic "version", but it seems the song has been completely re-written to take advantage of different usage of instruments while keeping the feel of the original composition. Very well done.
I've been thrashing this album. The more I listen to it, the more I hear - it is intricately layered. I think the approach to this album taken by the band is a very intelligent one, you can really hear that a LOT effort and thought has gone into this work.
I will definitely add this album to my collection when it is released. Fantastic work and a fresh breath of air.
His vocal work is best when he delivers sustained lines, not breaking them with falsetto (and I'm sorry, but his falsetto isn't one which sounds good because of his kind of mid-range natural voice). I wish he would concentrate more on his lower and middle registers, because his are fantastic and he has more power at this range too.
... however, he certainly delivers on Origin!
Also of note: Asgeir's outstanding contribution to drums on this album: he's been known for some time as one of Metal's better drummers, but this time we see him playing with more feeling, a slower and more creative pace. The results are fantastic.
Borknagar's music definitely has a unique style (I wish I knew the "technical" musical expressions to use). Brun has a writing style which is reminiscent of early Ulver in some respects and he does what he does well. He certainly has a unique stamp that is recognisable.
The usage of Western Art string instruments on Origin is very well done: over the years, I've noticed that when a band tends to use them, a string section constantly seems to be there for more aesthetic reasons, as opposed to actually providing proactive participation or another voice to the music.
Origin does not fall prey to this. The cellos and violins actually [I]drive [/I]the melodies on this album, which I feel for metal is actually quite a remarkable achievement. There are so many moments where I could hear that songs could be played entirely on a string ensemble and I think this factor is very deserving of a nod to Brun in respect.
Take for example "Human Nature", track 7 on the album: the chorus utilises an old technique (by Western Art Music standards but new for metal given the instruments used) of using short quick bowing strokes in conjunction with acoustic guitars to imitate heavy riffing common in metal. I think this is a very imaginative idea for an acoustic metal album and definitely applaudable - it creates a dramatic moment in the song, and most importantly provides us with what I truly feel is the first ever heavy entirely acoustic metal song.
For once on an acoustic metal album, the traditional "rock" instruments take a back seat, and the older instruments have an opportunity to drive the momentum of compositions on the album, and also provide a second or third voice for Borknagar to work with.
The album is actually quite complex, but I don't think the "average" metal listener is going to pick this up unless they have adequate experience with Baroque or classical music. Origin is an album of intelligence.
The acoustic version of Oceans Rise is a beautiful rendition of a Borknagar classic. They have not only produced an acoustic "version", but it seems the song has been completely re-written to take advantage of different usage of instruments while keeping the feel of the original composition. Very well done.
I've been thrashing this album. The more I listen to it, the more I hear - it is intricately layered. I think the approach to this album taken by the band is a very intelligent one, you can really hear that a LOT effort and thought has gone into this work.
I will definitely add this album to my collection when it is released. Fantastic work and a fresh breath of air.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Early Music: the foray begins.
The time has come to expand into another area: Early Music, namely religious music of the 14th and 15th Centuries and earlier. I feel I've become reasonably versed with Baroque Music (but my investigations into Baroque will never cease) and it's time to expand some more.
About 2 weeks ago, I decided to acquire some Early Music and finally make that leap back even earlier in history. I wanted something which expresses the strong Christian influence (ironic considering my opinions of religion) on the music without being entirely choral.
In Michaels Music Room I picked up a copy of Alia Vox's double CD release of Early Music: "Alfons V el Magnànim: El Cancionero de Montecassino". The music is performed by Le Capella Reial de Catalunya, which includes Jordi Savall, Montserrat Figuraras and Arianna Savall among others, I knew the recording and performance would be spectacular (and it is).
The first thing I noticed was the absence of vibrato (a big plus in my book, as I generally dislike it): any lines by any voice, whether sung or played by an instrument are clearly held and sustained. The combination of this technique with the Viola Da Gamba and choral singing is just awe-inspiring: the notes are so clear, so evidently identifiable; you can almost see them in your mind. It's also really interesting to hear "proto-counterpoints" heralding the coming of JS Bach several hundred years later when this technique would be perfected.
As an enthusiast of the Viol, I noted that the Gamba's role is even more aligned with the human voice than in the Baroque period (I now realise that they separated as the art of virtuosic playing evolved). It's said that the Gamba was the instrument which could emulate the sounds of the human voice more than any other. This is displayed here with such success that were it not for the texture of the bow across the strings, one is almost unable to differentiate the Gamba from the soprano or tenor's voices.
As with any kind of music, Early Music depicts cultural events or characteristics of the period: Europe underwent massive transformation during the 14th century due to famines, plagues and climate shift (a mild Ice Age). Massive under population combined with conflicts and divisions within the Church paints a picture of Europe's darkest period in history. Thus, the music of the period reflects Christian devotion to Christ through darker tones.
Some of the darkest laments I have heard have been on Andreas Scholl's Kantate. But musically around 200 years earlier, Europe's blackness is expressed with incredibly moving singing, depicting an eternal lament of Christ's death and the solemn celebration of his reign in the world at the time. It is a haunting, raw and beautiful depiction of the devotion to religion, and of a Europe struggling to get back on its feet enhanced by the linearity of the singing and playing techniques in the music.
I "half knew" what to expect when listening to this CD (my first "true" experience with Early Music). With my knowledge of Baroque behind me (combined with various attendances at Baroque concerts, and the fact that I have the best Baroque teacher in Linda), interpreting Early Music is becoming a far more interesting experience than I could have first imagined because of the comparisons and evolutional aspects I can draw on. I think if I had gone the other way around (exploring in a chronological manner), I might not have appreciated the more refined or "simplified" aspects of Early Music as having the purpose it does.
I'm truly excited by this music. I haven't felt this moved since listening to some Finnish mood-crushing Funeral Doom (Shape of Despair's "Shades Of..."), but the difference here in Early Music is that this darkness is real, not fantasy.
Through this music, history has been clearly expressed in ways that books can only tell part of the story with. In the "Cancionero de Montecassino" manuscripts, the songs of Christ’s Heaven and the laments of a dying Europe come alive through modern means, teaching us how we have arrived to where we are today. I'm looking very forward to pursuing this new musical avenue with even greater depth, to discovering even more links of musical evolution across time.
About 2 weeks ago, I decided to acquire some Early Music and finally make that leap back even earlier in history. I wanted something which expresses the strong Christian influence (ironic considering my opinions of religion) on the music without being entirely choral.
In Michaels Music Room I picked up a copy of Alia Vox's double CD release of Early Music: "Alfons V el Magnànim: El Cancionero de Montecassino". The music is performed by Le Capella Reial de Catalunya, which includes Jordi Savall, Montserrat Figuraras and Arianna Savall among others, I knew the recording and performance would be spectacular (and it is).
The first thing I noticed was the absence of vibrato (a big plus in my book, as I generally dislike it): any lines by any voice, whether sung or played by an instrument are clearly held and sustained. The combination of this technique with the Viola Da Gamba and choral singing is just awe-inspiring: the notes are so clear, so evidently identifiable; you can almost see them in your mind. It's also really interesting to hear "proto-counterpoints" heralding the coming of JS Bach several hundred years later when this technique would be perfected.
As an enthusiast of the Viol, I noted that the Gamba's role is even more aligned with the human voice than in the Baroque period (I now realise that they separated as the art of virtuosic playing evolved). It's said that the Gamba was the instrument which could emulate the sounds of the human voice more than any other. This is displayed here with such success that were it not for the texture of the bow across the strings, one is almost unable to differentiate the Gamba from the soprano or tenor's voices.
As with any kind of music, Early Music depicts cultural events or characteristics of the period: Europe underwent massive transformation during the 14th century due to famines, plagues and climate shift (a mild Ice Age). Massive under population combined with conflicts and divisions within the Church paints a picture of Europe's darkest period in history. Thus, the music of the period reflects Christian devotion to Christ through darker tones.
Some of the darkest laments I have heard have been on Andreas Scholl's Kantate. But musically around 200 years earlier, Europe's blackness is expressed with incredibly moving singing, depicting an eternal lament of Christ's death and the solemn celebration of his reign in the world at the time. It is a haunting, raw and beautiful depiction of the devotion to religion, and of a Europe struggling to get back on its feet enhanced by the linearity of the singing and playing techniques in the music.
I "half knew" what to expect when listening to this CD (my first "true" experience with Early Music). With my knowledge of Baroque behind me (combined with various attendances at Baroque concerts, and the fact that I have the best Baroque teacher in Linda), interpreting Early Music is becoming a far more interesting experience than I could have first imagined because of the comparisons and evolutional aspects I can draw on. I think if I had gone the other way around (exploring in a chronological manner), I might not have appreciated the more refined or "simplified" aspects of Early Music as having the purpose it does.
I'm truly excited by this music. I haven't felt this moved since listening to some Finnish mood-crushing Funeral Doom (Shape of Despair's "Shades Of..."), but the difference here in Early Music is that this darkness is real, not fantasy.
Through this music, history has been clearly expressed in ways that books can only tell part of the story with. In the "Cancionero de Montecassino" manuscripts, the songs of Christ’s Heaven and the laments of a dying Europe come alive through modern means, teaching us how we have arrived to where we are today. I'm looking very forward to pursuing this new musical avenue with even greater depth, to discovering even more links of musical evolution across time.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
F**k Raunch Culture.
I *LOVE* women. I love their sexiness, their curves etc etc. But I also love a woman who is intelligent, is classy and has self-respect, and doesnt come across cheap and a game player.
Raunch culture is the direct opposite: it's cheap, slutty, portrays women as sex objects in ways which makes my jaw job and glorifies the gameplaying aspect of sexual relations. It's become a publicly acceptable version of mysogeny and completely destroys everything women fought so hard for back in the 1970's.
Any female (and male for that matter) who supports raunch culture should be ashamed: you are damning your own rights and condemning yourself to a treatment akin to that of women in the middle ages!
It's UTTERLY disgusting, there is NO justification for it and I am sick to death seeing it everywhere, as well as of people who loudly proclaim they're against against, yet are the very ones waltzing about wearing "Porn Star" shirts. F**K OFF.
Raunch culture is the direct opposite: it's cheap, slutty, portrays women as sex objects in ways which makes my jaw job and glorifies the gameplaying aspect of sexual relations. It's become a publicly acceptable version of mysogeny and completely destroys everything women fought so hard for back in the 1970's.
Any female (and male for that matter) who supports raunch culture should be ashamed: you are damning your own rights and condemning yourself to a treatment akin to that of women in the middle ages!
It's UTTERLY disgusting, there is NO justification for it and I am sick to death seeing it everywhere, as well as of people who loudly proclaim they're against against, yet are the very ones waltzing about wearing "Porn Star" shirts. F**K OFF.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Goodbye Steve Irwin, you will be deeply missed.
Most here in Australia are mourning Steve Irwin's passing, but a few who feel embarrassed by his image don't realise its far better to have a "crickey" image than that of perhaps car-racing 2sik4u hoons, or dole bludging pokie addicts in Dural.
I find the intolerance of his image at a time like this extremely insulting in light of this man's fantastic positivity and energy, but I guess some people choose to act like disgusting 9 year old immoral brats as I saw in a forum tonight:
Not to disrespect the guy, but is Steve Crikey Irwin really the image that you want all over the world? He was nearly as bad as Paul Hogan for foreigners' perception of Australians.
Irwin gave Australia a unique image, even if it's not 100% accurate, and helped raise awareness of modern and ancient Australia which in turn helps the economy and raises our own identity.
Regardless of his Australian cariciture, he was a down to earth, positive man, who carried a passionate honest energy like few people in this world can do. Irwin said "Australians get embarrassed by me sometimes, but I think it's just because they see a little bit of me in themselves". I cant help but agree. His down to earth nature is totally Aussie and makes me proud to live here.
I can definitely say that while I am not a huge fan myself, I have nothing but the highest respect for someone who chose a unique path and did it in a unique way. Like many mourning around the world, I honour his passing as a that of a true human being, and a great one at that.
I feel deep loss for his family: I just watched an old interview of him with Andrew Denton, and the passion Irwin displays for his parents, wife and children is just amazing. And now with his passing, you can't help but the feel the pain of his wife and family. To lose someone who has so much energy and love is a devastating loss.
This is a huge tragic blow. Rest in peace Steve.
I find the intolerance of his image at a time like this extremely insulting in light of this man's fantastic positivity and energy, but I guess some people choose to act like disgusting 9 year old immoral brats as I saw in a forum tonight:
Not to disrespect the guy, but is Steve Crikey Irwin really the image that you want all over the world? He was nearly as bad as Paul Hogan for foreigners' perception of Australians.
Irwin gave Australia a unique image, even if it's not 100% accurate, and helped raise awareness of modern and ancient Australia which in turn helps the economy and raises our own identity.
Regardless of his Australian cariciture, he was a down to earth, positive man, who carried a passionate honest energy like few people in this world can do. Irwin said "Australians get embarrassed by me sometimes, but I think it's just because they see a little bit of me in themselves". I cant help but agree. His down to earth nature is totally Aussie and makes me proud to live here.
I can definitely say that while I am not a huge fan myself, I have nothing but the highest respect for someone who chose a unique path and did it in a unique way. Like many mourning around the world, I honour his passing as a that of a true human being, and a great one at that.
I feel deep loss for his family: I just watched an old interview of him with Andrew Denton, and the passion Irwin displays for his parents, wife and children is just amazing. And now with his passing, you can't help but the feel the pain of his wife and family. To lose someone who has so much energy and love is a devastating loss.
This is a huge tragic blow. Rest in peace Steve.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Troubles with Supernal
I knew somewhere along the line something like this was going to happen sooner or later.
It would appear my order for 2 medium sized Drudkh t-shirts along with my copy of Weakling's "Dead as Dreams" album has been lost either by incorrect addressing by Supernal records, or a bad shipping service.
It's been one month since my order was paid for, and Alex from Supernal is probably spewing that this has happened because now he has an unhappy customer.
I have no idea how to deal with this, as it's the first time it's happened, and I don't think Supernal are going to replace my order (also given he's now taking longer than usual to respond to my passive emails to him).
So it looks like I am going to have to shell out more money to re-order the whole lot and not have it sent to the previous address. Not happy :(
It would appear my order for 2 medium sized Drudkh t-shirts along with my copy of Weakling's "Dead as Dreams" album has been lost either by incorrect addressing by Supernal records, or a bad shipping service.
It's been one month since my order was paid for, and Alex from Supernal is probably spewing that this has happened because now he has an unhappy customer.
I have no idea how to deal with this, as it's the first time it's happened, and I don't think Supernal are going to replace my order (also given he's now taking longer than usual to respond to my passive emails to him).
So it looks like I am going to have to shell out more money to re-order the whole lot and not have it sent to the previous address. Not happy :(
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Darkestrah: Embrace Of Memory
At long last, my copy of Embrace Of Memory has finally arrived!
Some months ago I discovered Darkestrah, and found them even more intriguing after finding out their origin of the small country of Kyrgyzstan. Even more interesting is that they are one of the few true Pagan Black Metal bands to feature a female vocalist (who I will add, does an incredible job at creating a dark shrieking aural abyss!).
A more detailed post will replace this in a day or so, but let me say that this album definitely marks one of my best purchases in the last year or so. An amazing band with an amazing future ahead!
Official website: http://www.darkestrah.vze.com/
Some months ago I discovered Darkestrah, and found them even more intriguing after finding out their origin of the small country of Kyrgyzstan. Even more interesting is that they are one of the few true Pagan Black Metal bands to feature a female vocalist (who I will add, does an incredible job at creating a dark shrieking aural abyss!).
A more detailed post will replace this in a day or so, but let me say that this album definitely marks one of my best purchases in the last year or so. An amazing band with an amazing future ahead!
Official website: http://www.darkestrah.vze.com/
Friday, August 18, 2006
Immortal frontman's new band "I" - song available
i.battlegrim.net report that the first I song, "The Storm I Ride" is now available for download:
Click here (sendspace.com - 3.1 Mb) to download the song titled "The Storm I Ride" from the upcoming "I" album "Between Two Worlds". Rip made from NRK P3 Pyro - Norwegian radio show by Jon Øyvind Tøsdal.
"I" will play live for the first time at Norway's "Hole In The Sky" Festival on August 26th this year.
Click here (sendspace.com - 3.1 Mb) to download the song titled "The Storm I Ride" from the upcoming "I" album "Between Two Worlds". Rip made from NRK P3 Pyro - Norwegian radio show by Jon Øyvind Tøsdal.
"I" will play live for the first time at Norway's "Hole In The Sky" Festival on August 26th this year.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
MGŁA: Presence (EP)
Finally my copy of MGŁA's "Presence" EP has arrived from Supernal Records.
I came across this Polish band by "accident", and found they seem to have an affiliation with Mikko Aspa of Clandestine Blaze and Deathspell Omega, having appeared on the Crushing The Holy Trinity compilation released earlier this year on Northern Heritage records.
With Satanic lyrical themes, "Presence" is split into three tracks (I, II, III) with each one seemingly being an extension (or somewhat modified recital) of the previous. It's ice-cold hateful Satanic Black Metal, fuelled with chainsaw guitars, slicing tremolos and thin snowblasted yet ominous vocals.
The simple ingredients above make for an outstanding and essential Black Metal release: it's delivered honestly and directly as you expect true Black Metal to do: no flamboyant drum fills, solos or electronics, things are kept raw, simple, yet undeniably powerful. MGŁA don't break new ground, but masterfully execute their music with a style that is certainly their own.
The Presence EP is under-produced enough to not sound like a demo, and clean enough to not sound over-professional (think of a colder production of Weakling's "Dead As Dreams" album). The production balance sits perfectly over the musical structure, and the snarled vocals cut through the thick textured wall of drums and guitars on each verse. Beautiful.
I highly recommend this EP (and band) to any Black Metal enthusiast, as judging from their small amount of available material, MGŁA could gather a strong following with their established, yet somewhat unique style that plays no games with what it attempts to achieve.
MGŁA also have Mdłości (EP) available, but I haven't been able to find this one on mCD - it appears that this release has so far been vinyl only. The band are currently preparing for their first full length in early 2007, and I for one will be keeping a sharp eye open for that release.
In summary, an extremely worthy addition to any Black Metal collection. Outstanding work.
Official Site: http://hatepropaganda.org/MGLA/
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Agalloch News
Well, two things of note:
Firstly, according to Don Anderson, Agalloch is pronounced "AG-uh-Lock", not "uh-GAL-luck".
You learn something new everyday!
Secondly, a great interview with the Agalloch squad is here. Enjoy.
Firstly, according to Don Anderson, Agalloch is pronounced "AG-uh-Lock", not "uh-GAL-luck".
You learn something new everyday!
Secondly, a great interview with the Agalloch squad is here. Enjoy.
iTunes under Nordic scrutiny
Well, well... it seems Apple is copping it once again... this time in Scandanavia!
Below is from the Sydney Morning Herald:
Nordic consumer regulators will meet in Iceland this month to discuss possible legal action against iPod-maker Apple Computer if the company does not ease restrictions that prevent songs bought at its online store from being played on rival music players.
The meeting, to take place in Reykjavik on August 24-25, will discuss whether the countries will seek to file a lawsuit against the company, and "whether we will address the Apple case individually or jointly," Bjoern Erik Thon, the Norwegian Consumer Ombudsman, said Tuesday.
In June, consumer agencies in Norway, Denmark and Sweden claimed that Apple was violating contract and copyright laws in their countries by making its iPod the only portable music player compatible with songs purchased from the company's iTunes Music Store.
In a reply, Apple staunchly defended its restrictions and indicated it was not willing to change its business model by opening iTunes purchases to rival devices that cannot play music protected by its digital rights management technology.
Below is from the Sydney Morning Herald:
Nordic consumer regulators will meet in Iceland this month to discuss possible legal action against iPod-maker Apple Computer if the company does not ease restrictions that prevent songs bought at its online store from being played on rival music players.
The meeting, to take place in Reykjavik on August 24-25, will discuss whether the countries will seek to file a lawsuit against the company, and "whether we will address the Apple case individually or jointly," Bjoern Erik Thon, the Norwegian Consumer Ombudsman, said Tuesday.
In June, consumer agencies in Norway, Denmark and Sweden claimed that Apple was violating contract and copyright laws in their countries by making its iPod the only portable music player compatible with songs purchased from the company's iTunes Music Store.
In a reply, Apple staunchly defended its restrictions and indicated it was not willing to change its business model by opening iTunes purchases to rival devices that cannot play music protected by its digital rights management technology.
Friday, August 11, 2006
The Meanies: DVD!!!
The late 80s and early 90s were a massive period for my life, really shaping me into who I am today from an artistic and musical perspective. My obsession with Metal starting in 1986, then extending into some punk and grunge in the 1990s and now evolving back (even more extreme) into Metal again, it's bringing back my happy days like I can't believe.
So, upon wandering up to the Junction today, I got the biggest surprise I could ever imagine - The Meanies on DVD. I didnt think twice and bought it straight away.
The Meanies, thanks to my old friend Jono Barwick in high school and Baulko's own "indie queen", Celeste, became one of my favourite bands ever next to Smudge. In my last Meanies gig, I was crushed against a metal fence right at the front of the crowd with 8 thousand people behind me in (one of the sickest moshes ever seen) back around 1993 or thereabouts.
The Meanies, for myself, my skate, punk and goth friends back in those days were a focal point for many of us. The Meanies gelled many of us together, including new people who we would meet at gigs.
I can recall back in 1992 or so, hitting Sydney's Metro (I think it was?) to see The Meanies play, and ending up chatting with tonnes of fellow punters, all of us not yet 18, pissed off our faces with sore necks from headbanging (and im my case, my homemade Smudge t-shirt ripped right down one side and a bootprint on my back from moshing so hard).
I can remember that gig so well - the mosh became so insane, I simply had to back out in the end, it was a swarming mass of flesh and flying hair everywhere, girls and boys sweating and panting, Link Meanie almost constantly airborne onstage.
I wish I had a camera of those memories, for those are the only reasons I would ever want to return to my teens.
It's this kind of vision that you see on The Meanies DVD - all the footage of gigs like the one I've just described. Incredible, electric, alive!
So, upon wandering up to the Junction today, I got the biggest surprise I could ever imagine - The Meanies on DVD. I didnt think twice and bought it straight away.
The Meanies, thanks to my old friend Jono Barwick in high school and Baulko's own "indie queen", Celeste, became one of my favourite bands ever next to Smudge. In my last Meanies gig, I was crushed against a metal fence right at the front of the crowd with 8 thousand people behind me in (one of the sickest moshes ever seen) back around 1993 or thereabouts.
The Meanies, for myself, my skate, punk and goth friends back in those days were a focal point for many of us. The Meanies gelled many of us together, including new people who we would meet at gigs.
I can recall back in 1992 or so, hitting Sydney's Metro (I think it was?) to see The Meanies play, and ending up chatting with tonnes of fellow punters, all of us not yet 18, pissed off our faces with sore necks from headbanging (and im my case, my homemade Smudge t-shirt ripped right down one side and a bootprint on my back from moshing so hard).
I can remember that gig so well - the mosh became so insane, I simply had to back out in the end, it was a swarming mass of flesh and flying hair everywhere, girls and boys sweating and panting, Link Meanie almost constantly airborne onstage.
I wish I had a camera of those memories, for those are the only reasons I would ever want to return to my teens.
It's this kind of vision that you see on The Meanies DVD - all the footage of gigs like the one I've just described. Incredible, electric, alive!
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Quake IV: the dust settles a bit.
Thanks to SyncError's involvement, Quake IV is finally stable & maturing according to ESReality community reactions regarding the 1.3 Point Release.
I've been holding off any development for it, although I know it's somewhat unfair to the community. I just felt that Quake IV got off to a very rocky and unfinished start, and I don't want to map for a platform until it's nice and stable.
Because of my attitude towards players and mapping, I prefer for things to mature before I go releasing anything so I can gauge playing styles a bit better.
Now that the dust has settled, I can finally start to get things going. My first map for Quake IV (and Aerowalk as well) will be a little while off yet, but at least now I know that my patience was for the better.
Time to dust off that copy of QE Radiant :)
I've been holding off any development for it, although I know it's somewhat unfair to the community. I just felt that Quake IV got off to a very rocky and unfinished start, and I don't want to map for a platform until it's nice and stable.
Because of my attitude towards players and mapping, I prefer for things to mature before I go releasing anything so I can gauge playing styles a bit better.
Now that the dust has settled, I can finally start to get things going. My first map for Quake IV (and Aerowalk as well) will be a little while off yet, but at least now I know that my patience was for the better.
Time to dust off that copy of QE Radiant :)
Negură Bunget: OM
Massive news from Code666: The new Negură Bunget album OM is off to the pressing plant for an October 2006 release!
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
iPodding my Nokia
Ah the joys of technology.
While I've toned down on obsessing with it over the last 4-5 years (e.g. not jumping with joy about Beta/leaked drivers like I used to), some things are hard to let go of.
My new Nokia 6111 phone is a total treat. It was so cheap (approx $350 through Employee Purchase=$35 each month for approx 10 months).
As with any tech, I start turning things off, getting rid of default settings and simplifying things. Eventually, I want to pull it apart and modify it in some kind of way. In the case of this Nokia 6111, it's the interface.
Maybe because I'm obsessed with my iPod, I want simplification on my phone too: the UI on the Nokia is FOUL. Totally hopeless and takes up far too much screen real estate.
I've learned that the .nth files this phone uses on its Symbian OS are just like PK3 and PK4 archives for Quake3 and Quake4. i.e. simply open with a decent compression program (Winzip, WinRAR), check the directory structure, file formats and image sizes, plus any code included, and edit to your hearts content.
I'm aiming for my own Nokia 6111 iPod theme over the next few days. Pics forthcoming!
While I've toned down on obsessing with it over the last 4-5 years (e.g. not jumping with joy about Beta/leaked drivers like I used to), some things are hard to let go of.
My new Nokia 6111 phone is a total treat. It was so cheap (approx $350 through Employee Purchase=$35 each month for approx 10 months).
Bluetooth, large screen, smaller than any phone I've ever owned, and a cute little 1 megapixel camera are just some of the things I like about it (most importantly the IrDA actually works! Thank god I didn't chuck out my dongle).
As with any tech, I start turning things off, getting rid of default settings and simplifying things. Eventually, I want to pull it apart and modify it in some kind of way. In the case of this Nokia 6111, it's the interface.
Maybe because I'm obsessed with my iPod, I want simplification on my phone too: the UI on the Nokia is FOUL. Totally hopeless and takes up far too much screen real estate.
I've learned that the .nth files this phone uses on its Symbian OS are just like PK3 and PK4 archives for Quake3 and Quake4. i.e. simply open with a decent compression program (Winzip, WinRAR), check the directory structure, file formats and image sizes, plus any code included, and edit to your hearts content.
I'm aiming for my own Nokia 6111 iPod theme over the next few days. Pics forthcoming!
Monday, August 07, 2006
Aussie Metal Scene On Fire?
So far this Winter and coming Spring, we have an amazing series of gigs coming up:
Kreator: August 25th (Gaelic Club)
Funeral Moon: Sept: 9th (Newtown RSL) inc Virgin Black, Ne Obliviscaris among others
Megadeth's Gigantour: Oct ?? (Venue unknown)
Nevermore: Nov 3 (Sydney UNI)
Nevermore: Nov 4 (Gaelic Club)
G3 Tour: Dec ?? (Venue unknown)
This is one of the biggest years we've had, with Opeth already having come and gone, as well as Arch Enemy and Behemoth among others. 2006 has shaped up to be amazing amazing year so far! I hope I can make all of these dates.
Kreator: August 25th (Gaelic Club)
Funeral Moon: Sept: 9th (Newtown RSL) inc Virgin Black, Ne Obliviscaris among others
Megadeth's Gigantour: Oct ?? (Venue unknown)
Nevermore: Nov 3 (Sydney UNI)
Nevermore: Nov 4 (Gaelic Club)
G3 Tour: Dec ?? (Venue unknown)
This is one of the biggest years we've had, with Opeth already having come and gone, as well as Arch Enemy and Behemoth among others. 2006 has shaped up to be amazing amazing year so far! I hope I can make all of these dates.
Black Metal boosts Norwegian language interest
While surfing away tonight, I came across Aftenposten, a Norwegian newspaper who (thankfully) have an English section of their site.
It intrigues me as to how well known Metal is in Norway, and how much it's recognised as part of youth culture, while over here in Australia it's widely condemned in favour of the popular mysogeny of Rap and Hip-Hop styles of music.
After hunting around on the site, I found something interesting regarding Black Metal and their language:
I have myself wanted to pick up the language given the amount of Norse and Icelandic that's used to Black Metal. I generally find non-English languages to be a superior form of lyrical expression in music anyway (see various Operas for quick non-metal examples).
While Norway hasn't had a good experience with Black Metal given the church arsons and the Euronymous murder back in the early 90's, the country should see this as a positive thing, also given that Black Metal is the country's biggest musical export.
Sidenote: Norway has a cricket team playing an international match in Scotland!
It intrigues me as to how well known Metal is in Norway, and how much it's recognised as part of youth culture, while over here in Australia it's widely condemned in favour of the popular mysogeny of Rap and Hip-Hop styles of music.
After hunting around on the site, I found something interesting regarding Black Metal and their language:
I have myself wanted to pick up the language given the amount of Norse and Icelandic that's used to Black Metal. I generally find non-English languages to be a superior form of lyrical expression in music anyway (see various Operas for quick non-metal examples).
While Norway hasn't had a good experience with Black Metal given the church arsons and the Euronymous murder back in the early 90's, the country should see this as a positive thing, also given that Black Metal is the country's biggest musical export.
Sidenote: Norway has a cricket team playing an international match in Scotland!
Saturday, August 05, 2006
F**king Internet :| & f**king Kellyville
Damn you Singtel!!! Beause of your congestion in your network which is supposed to have been upgraded by now, my DSL is running like crap. I've a good mind to annoy Tier 1 and see what's going on, but I have a feeling I'll end up with a nasty engineer on the line.
//grits teeth
//Linda screaming at Wallabies in the loungeroom
//I hate football.
Nothing is worse than seeing an influx of friends become an outflux. I'm noticing this happening more and more as the years go past.
Is this a by-product of being 30? All your friends vanishing?
Sydney hasn't been the friendiest of places since I came back 5 years ago, and making new friends here has been like sitting down at a piano for the first time and attempting to play Beethoven right off the bat.
Yet another friend is about to leave, but thankfully, he's not going too far away. This particular odd creature is moving to Adelaide (stay away from big plastic barrels dude).
The problem, as has been the case a little bit, as that the send-off is planned on a Saturday.
In the morning on a Saturday.
At around 0900AM in the morning on a Saturday.
In KELLYVILLE where there's NO public transport for Eastern Suburbs dwelling povo's like me who need public transport!!! >:[
I feel horrible that I can't make it, because this particular pr0n-loving creature has been one of two friends I have left from school, and although I don't see him much I love him dearly and always get concerned when he tells me he's upset or something.
I'm really sorry man, I guess I'm going to have to try to see you before you go. :(
//grits teeth
//Linda screaming at Wallabies in the loungeroom
//I hate football.
Nothing is worse than seeing an influx of friends become an outflux. I'm noticing this happening more and more as the years go past.
Is this a by-product of being 30? All your friends vanishing?
Sydney hasn't been the friendiest of places since I came back 5 years ago, and making new friends here has been like sitting down at a piano for the first time and attempting to play Beethoven right off the bat.
Yet another friend is about to leave, but thankfully, he's not going too far away. This particular odd creature is moving to Adelaide (stay away from big plastic barrels dude).
The problem, as has been the case a little bit, as that the send-off is planned on a Saturday.
In the morning on a Saturday.
At around 0900AM in the morning on a Saturday.
In KELLYVILLE where there's NO public transport for Eastern Suburbs dwelling povo's like me who need public transport!!! >:[
I feel horrible that I can't make it, because this particular pr0n-loving creature has been one of two friends I have left from school, and although I don't see him much I love him dearly and always get concerned when he tells me he's upset or something.
I'm really sorry man, I guess I'm going to have to try to see you before you go. :(
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