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Bands are listed alphabetically, with individuals listed by last name.

Review Archive: F

FACADE BURNED BLACK - Who Will Save the Unwanted 7" · Rhetoric
Not all 7"s have sound this good, and that helps FBB and their fierce Hardcore, but mostly it’s the intensity and energy of the playing that makes this as good as it is. - 8.75 - **MC11**

FACE DOWN - The Twisted Rule the Wicked · Nuclear Blast
This is a weird release. The music is very "modern Metal." Maybe not totally unlike STRAPPING YOUNG LAD. The singer sometimes sounds like Rob Zombie, or distorts his vocals, neither of which I approve of. Despite all that, I don’t hate it. The songs are very catchy, and generally pretty fast. The lyrics help, too. But what really saves this is the opening sample: "We came to wreck everything. And ruin your life. God sent us." It’s hard to overcome something that cool. - 8 - <Ray> **MC11**

FACE TO FACE - Face to Face · A&M
High energy Poppy neuvo-Punk. Honestly, it's not too bad, but it's really nothing special. - 7.25 - <Ray> **MC10**

FACEBREAKER - Bloodred Hell · Rage of Achilles
For those of you unaware, as I was, of this band's existence, this is the new project from Roberte Karlsson who you may recall was the vocalist for EDGE OF SANITY on the Cryptic LP. Filling in for Dan Swano is definitely not an enviable task, but Karlsson held his ground pretty well back then. However, his vocals have never sounded as brutal as they do on Bloodred Hell. Musically this is in the same ball park as EDGE OF SANITY's heavier moments, never straying far from the patented "brutality comes through simplicity" motto held sacred by Sweden's Death Metal elite. Now, make no mistake, FACEBREAKER are not quite in said company yet. This album can and does tend to drag in parts, but a fresh face is always welcome to the fray. Even if it is an old friend. Favorites: "Human Spoil," "Command of the Dark," "Hater," and "Crushed." - 9 - <Jack>

FACEDOWNINSHIT - Shit Bloody Shit · Crimes Against Humanity
Featuring tracks from the band's split 10" record (with COLD ELECTRIC FIRE), Concrete World album, and Ain't a Fucking Demo tape, this is more a compilation than an album, but who cares what you want to call it, because by any name is is one fucking awesome CD. At times this is the most melodic Crust / Hardcore I think I've ever heard, but that's perfectly balanced out with not only the expected speed and raw aggression, but also some slower, heavier, early-BLACK-SABBATH-style Sludge / Doom. It's just beyond belief sometimes! Everyone in the band is credited with "voice," so I'm not sure who is screaming what, but these guys sound like they are of a single, all-powerful, voicebox, delivering the tortured rasp of someone fighting for his life. I'd mention some of the cooler lyrics, but I don't have the space (or inclination) to retype the entire booklet here. I've got a huge stack of CDs here to review, but it still took all my willpower to crowbar this one out of the player after about six spins, and it's going back in the first chance I get. - 9.75 - <Ray>

FACTION ZERO - Faction Zero · DEMO
Hardcore Thrash, which swings from Punk to Metal with no resistance at all. Well played, and thought out, and packed with energy. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC9**

FAERGHAIL - Horizon's Fall · Shiver
Black Metal that is alternately fast, or slow and sort of melancholy. The raw, thin production does little to help things, but this does contain some brief flashes of greatness, nonetheless. Generally those are found during the slower, more melodic parts. As a bonus, all the tracks from the band's last demo (Dark Ocean Calm) are also included. - 7.5 - <Ray>

FAILSAFE - Hatelight · DEMO
Pro-god Hardcore, with the noticeable Metal influences. They do nothing new, but have a ton of energy, and the songs are easy to remember. Sound quality is really good, and all that. A little less repetition in the lyrics would help for me, but other than that, I'm all for it. - 8 - <Ray> **MC8**

THE FAIRLANES - Hi! We're the Fairlanes · Suburban Home
Ultra happy, completely useless, Pop-Punk beat-offs. - 2 - <Ray> **MC10**

FAIRLIGHT - Le Bal des Eternels · DEMO (CD)
"Hey, guys! Let’s form a Death Metal Band and make lots of money!" "Wow! That sounds great! Let’s do it!" This is what I imagine the conversation went like when FAIRLIGHT first formed, except it would have been in French, because they’re from France. And apparently, when you’re in France and you form a Death Metal band, you have to steal all your riffs from MERCYFUL FATE, RUSH, or CRADLE OF FILTH. Plus, you need to add cheezy keyboard parts to all the songs to get the Black Metal audience interested. Finally, if you do come up with some good riffs for any of your songs, you have to endlessly repeat them enough times to make people sick of hearing them. Good thing France is Socialist, because these guys can hopefully go to the government and get some help. - 2 - <Doktor Necrosis> **MC12**

FALCONER - Falconer · Metal Blade
Heavy / Power Metal featuring former members of MITHOTYN and DAWN. Strong and aggressive guitar melodies backed by impressive double-bass drumming give this release a huge sound. Some songs have a melodic Viking Metal rhythm while others have that galloping pace that fans of Power Metal will definitely appreciate. The vocals may take some getting used to though. Singer Mathias Blad doesn't have the range of a Michael Kiske or a Hansi Kursch, but he does deliver an energetic effort nevertheless. Recorded in Los Angered studio in November of 2000, the production is outstanding. An excellent debut for FALCONER. - 8.25 - <Painkiller>

FALL FROM GRACE - Fall From grace · Mayhem/Fierce
Excellent sound, but the band is clueless. - 2 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

FALL OF SERENITY - Royal Killing · Metal Age
You know, with the media surge involving Metalcore, you very rarely hear a thing about the German scene. Sure, HEAVEN SHALL BURN and CALIBAN get their props, and rightfully so, but have you ever heard SOULGATE’S DAWN, MOURNING ENDS, BA’AL, FALL OF A SEASON, DESTINY, or MAROON? I’m sure some of you have, but a lot are missing out on some quality music. Quality music like FALL OF SERENITY. Now, unlike most the bands listed in my tirade, these guys are not Metalcore. They are a melodic Death Metal band with a healthy obsession with the Old School Swedish sound. A genetic splicing of the Gothenberg and Sunlight sounds, if you will. On their exceptional debut, Grey Man’s Requiem, they nailed a cover of DISMEMBER’s "Casket Garden," and while Royal Killing unveils a completely refined sound, the vibes are still thankfully evident. The album has a strong EDGE OF SANITY vibe, with the brutal vocals occasionally reminiscent of classic UNLEASHED. (Also reminiscent of this zine’s editor, by the way.) There is also the welcome addition of clean vocals, and speaking of EDGE OF SANITY, Patrick Engel who produced the album and lends backing vocals, is quickly becoming Germany’s answer to Dan Swano. I simply can’t recommend this enough. FALL OF SERENITY have outdone their debut and continue to showcase their country’s hidden treasures. I mean, come on, one of the guys is wearing a KATATONIA shirt. That alone is worth at least a 9. - 9.75 - <Jack>

FALL OF THE BASTARDS - Dusk of an Ancient Age · Intolerant Messiah
Black Metal with a Thrashlike rhythmic diversity, that is to say, they mix speeds well. The vocals, riffs, and production are all fine, but for whatever reason, this bores me to absolute fucking tears. Good musicians, but it’s so run-of-the-mill it hurts. Try harder. - 7 - <Jack>

FALL OF THE LEAFE - Evanescent, Everfading · Defiled
Okay, this band combines speed picked Black Metal, and maybe some Doom, with occasionally "mystical" sounding keyboards. It’s pretty cool sounding, and flawlessly recorded, but seems to be missing something necessary for true greatness. - 8 - <Ray> **MC11**

FALL OF THE LEAFE - Volvere · Rage of Achilles / The End
It’s been quite a few years since I’ve heard this band. In fact, the last I remember hearing of them was way back on their Evanescent, Everfading album, which was before they went all "Art Rock." The press release says something about how much you’ll like this is you like current stuff from PARADISE LOST or SENTENCED, and all I can think of is how sad it is if that’s true and those once-great bands really are this lame now, all this time after I’ve given up on them. I mean, this sounds like it could be on the radio. Just imagine what the radio stations are like here in tiny little Elkhart, Indiana! This might get better after the second track, but it was too headache inducing for me to proceed any further. - 3 - <Ray>

FALLACY - Fallacy · DEMO
Very straightforward Thrash. The excellent recording and mix help out, but the gruffly yelled vocals sometimes detract a little. The playing is great (especially the bass), but the riffs are often very standard. Even when they try to incorporate alternate styles or "weird" sections, they're not revolutionary. The second track, "Godman," has some superb parts, but this intensity is unfortunately not held throughout the entire song, much less the remaining three. I think that with time, FALLACY might develop into a world-class outfit, they certainly have the talent. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC10**

THE FALLEN - The Fallen · DEMO
I can guarantee that you’ll never find a better way to spend a buck than on this four-song demo. THE FALLEN play intense Death, with a hint of Black Metal, and this demo is very well written and recorded. Vocally things are also a mix with raspy screams. I do have a question or two about the lyrics, but with no lyric sheet, I’ll give ‘em the benefit of the doubt based on how nearly flawless the music is. Considering the price - which is actually free, but the band asks that you try to send $1 to cover postage, which is the fucking least you could do, really - this is as essential as things get. But I’ll wait on perfection until I can consult the lyrics. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

FALLEN EMPIRE - Skepticism · Eternal Frost
Yet another in an endless sea of Gothenberg clones. As is usually the case, decent songs, good melodies, and sharp vocals, but it has been done and done and done over and over and over again to a painful fucking death! Since the glory days of AT THE GATES, DARK TRANQUILLITY, and IN FLAMES, 10-15 bands pop up a year that sound very much or identical to what FALLEN EMPIRE is doing on this EP. Sorry, guys. You’ve got the talent, you’re just a decade plus late. -7.75 - <Jack>
www.fallenempire.tk

FALSE FACE SOCIETY - Game Face On · Sin Klub
Honestly groove-laden Hardcore/Metal. These guys are semi-heavy, write fairly memorable songs, and as an added plus can really play the shit out of their instruments. They probably should have put the title track first, as it is my favorite (always do what I think is best!), but I’ll let it slide this time. - 8 - <Ray> **MC11**

FALSE OATH - Not Politically Correct · DEMO
The production on this tape is very clear, although thin. I would have thought the band would have wanted a thicker, heavier production. Other than that, this is pretty good. Thrash, with an occasional nod to Death, I suppose. Lots of double bass, which always seems to help for me, and several distinct vocal styles, which for once are all cool. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

FALSE PROPHET - Sign of the Cross · DEMO
FALSE PROPHET have a rather unique sound. Comparable to very early DEATH ANGEL or MEGADETH (but musically heavier than the latter). It’s interesting to hear Death music with a more traditional Thrash vocalist. The members of FALSE PROPHET are: Paul Ray (vocals/guitar), Chris Lyndon (bass), Mike Morrison (guitar) and Raymond Martin (drums). My favorite of the four tracks on this demo is the last one, "False Prophecy." This tape shows a lot of promise. I understand that their new demo should be ready soon (if it’s not now), and I’m looking forward to hearing the new stuff. Sign of the Cross is not to be missed, so write ‘em and tell ‘em I sent you. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC3**

FALSE PROPHETS - Blind Roaches and Fat Vultures: Phantasmagoric Beasts of the Regan Era · Alternative Tentacles
Spanning this Punk Rock band's career from 1980 - '85, and consisting of rare stuff (7" tracks, demos, etc...), this is really a disc for fans only. Maybe this isn't F.P.'s best work, but it seems kind of uninspired and really just not too good. And, umm.... they do an extremely lame Rap in one song about ¾ of the way through the CD. Maybe more - I couldn't continue. - 1 - <Ray>

FALSE WITNESS - False Witness · DEMO
Excellent music: Very impressive, well recorded and executed Thrash. But like an alarming number of bands, these guys have one of those screechy, high pitched, singers, and that's almost always bad. Their singer, Michael, almost makes his style work, and sometimes it does. In fact, the more I listen to this, the more I grow to tolerate his voice, but it takes awhile. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

FAMILY OF FREAKS - .And Freaks Were Their Names · DEMO
I thoroughly enjoyed the S.O.D. "cover" ("March of the S.O.D." renamed "Mosh of the F.O.F."), but it seems that F.O.F. mine the depths of Speak English or Die for a few other riffs as well. I guess that's okay. It's been awhile since I've heard a Metal band this concerned with "pit riffs" - Hardcore seems to be trying to recapture that style. Anyway, this is a worthwhile demo. - 8 - <Ray> **MC10**

FANGORN - Non-Rhapsodian · DEMO
This starts off with an instrumental that really demands attention. That’s followed with a song in German that sets the tone of the whole tape. All the rest of the songs are in English, and very majestic with a warrior feel to them. Incorporated in most of the songs is a female vocalist who sings a few choice lines completely in the foreground with power and grace at once. The guitar riffs are aggressive, and are very "traditional Metal." The vocals are equally as aggressive with a real Death edge. I think this is a work to be proud of. - 9.25 - <ANG> **MC11**

THE FARTZ - Because this Fuckin’ World... · Alternative Tentacles
High energy, old-school, sloppy Punk Rock. And they do an insane cover of BLACK SABBATH’s "Children of the Grave." - 8 - <Ray> **MC12**

FAT - Fat · DV8
Rap influenced Funky Punk. And nothing of interest. - 5.5 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

FAT TUESDAY - Everybody's Got One · Columbia / Red Decibel
Enough already! Stop making this crap. Can it be that someone actually likes this puke? - 3.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

FATAL SIN - Fatal Sin · DEMO
This demo has only two songs, both of which show a lot of talent and creativity. The vocals are a small problem, but they grow on you. FATAL SIN has a real mastery of going from slow acoustical parts to fast slam parts. I only wish that there were more songs on this tape. The better of the two is the second, "Intense Distress". The other song, "Fatal Sin", is just slightly less great. The production is excellent, for a demo. This tape's only real fault is that it only contains two songs. - 9 - <Ray> **MC5**

FATE - Va Te Faire Enculer · DEMO (CD)
Beyond boring Death Metal. - 5 - <Jack> **MC12**

FATES WARNING - Inside Out · Metal Blade
Back and more Progressive than ever. This album is musically unbelievable, and they have even made the songs more memorable this time. Vocally, as you would expect, very smooth and melodic - not exactly my favorite kind of vocals, but they certainly fit here. As impressive as the songs and recording are, this just didn't move me very much. And guys, you know better than to rhyme "fire" and "desire." - 8 - <Ray> **MC8**

FATES WARNING - Inside Out · Metal Blade
These guys are simply by far the best of all the Progressive Metal bands. If you like such artists as DREAM THEATER, and so on, then check this out. The songwriting is out of sight, and so is everything else, but I'm not really very interested in this style. They do have my sincere respect, though. - 8 - <Ray> **MC9**

FATES WARNING - Chasing Time · Metal Blade
Here we have a compilation of some old tracks, and a few new songs, too. If you really want to check out some interesting Progressive Metal, then this is the thing to get, unless you already have all the FATES WARNING albums, then it might be too much cash for only 3 new songs. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

FATES WARNING - Still Life · Metal Blade
FATES WARNING is one of those bands I used to worship, but over the past 15 years they grew softer and softer and thus consequently had to leave their place on my personal altar of Metal. I still listen to their first three albums frequently and so I was quite curious about this live CD. Well, to put it shortly, I’m fucking disappointed. There’s only one song from the old times, and even though it’s badly executed, it still stands out as the best track. They went their way and now play the kind of music you can hear in shopping malls - it’s soooo fucking sad. Listening to releases like this makes me feel my age and all of a sudden suicide seems like a rather nice option. - 6 - <Opyros> **MC12**

FEAR FACTORY - Soul of a New Machine · Roadrunner
Wow! This is a completely impressive combination of Industrial and Death. The vocals range from SOLITUDE AETURNUS to SUFFOCATION, all in one song. The drums are especially cool. Raymond Herrera is the fucking drum god. He sounds as precise as a machine. All 17 songs are memorable as well as brutal. Totally great debut from an innovative band. Favorite song: "Leechmaster." - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC7**

FEAR FACTORY - Demanufacture · Roadrunner
Oh shit is this a joke. The drums are still totally fuckin' godlike, but the riffs are all PANTERA. And the vocals? All wrong. On their first album, Burton C. Bell really was the "dry lung vocal martyr," but now he is the "vocal effect and sweet-voice dork." Oh how the mighty have fallen. - 7 - <Ray> **MC9**

FEAR FACTORY - Remanufacture · Roadrunner
Well, these remixes hide a few of the riffs that I hated on their Demanufacture album, but they seem to be using the same stupid vocal effects. This is clearly an attempt to squeeze as much cash as possible out of their fans, and nothing else. After hearing this, I cannot believe that these dorks wrote even one good song, much less an album like Soul of a New Machine. I’m sure they think that LP sucks now. - 3.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

FEAR FACTORY - Obsolete · Roadrunner
With each release, F.F. get worse, but they also get richer & fuck more sluts, so maybe I’m wrong about this whole thing... Just kidding - this is crap. - 3 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

FEAR OF GOD - Toxic Voodoo · Pavement
I shit when I heard this. Back from the grave with a new line up, this is heavier, and fuckin' meaner than Beyond the Veil, but still as weird. And Dawn's vocals are better than ever (if you can imagine them being better). In case you don't know, she goes from to a raspy Thrash voice to a ripped-out-throat shriek. Often with another track of hypnotic, smooth vox in the background-she's simply amazing. Although there is less multi-tracking of the vocals here, it is still present, and I still like it. I wonder what she sounds like live. Not a bad track on here, not even a bad second. This is unbelievable. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC8**

FEAR OF INFLUENCE - Creation in Question · DEMO
Here we have a three piece band out of Canada. They are a Crossover band that sounds a lot like BAD RELIGION. The demo has five songs, including a cover of RUSH's "Tom Sawyer" (which I don't like), all of which are pretty short. And through the demo, I only heard two solos, of any kind, so that's a downer. I also didn't like the lyrics. I guess they are an OK Crossover band, and if you like stuff like BAD RELIGION, you should check 'em out. - 6.5 - <Tom> **MC7**

FEARBRINGER - Le Notti Del Peccato · Officina Rock
Extremely well done Black Metal in the ancient vein. Misanthropy and melancholy are conveyed to perfection amidst an ominous feel of evil and contempt for the clergy. The sad melodies atop the blasting on "The Mad Nun" fill my head with visions of impending winterkill in a torrential blizzard. The occasional Maniac-style clean singing took a short time to get used to, but there isn’t a whole lot that could ruin the feeling of old that FEARBRINGER so convincingly evoke. If you consider yourself a hardcore fan of DARKTHRONE, BURZUM, ABIGOR, GRAVELAND, or ULVER (before they started playing Easy Listening), you will welcome the chore of seeking out this obscure release. Plus, I’m pretty sure this band is from Italy. Go wops! We’ve got four good bands now! - 9.5 - <Jack>

FEAST ETERNAL - Prisons of Flesh · DEMO (CD)
If you just don’t pay any attention to the lyrics, this is pretty solid Death Metal. But upon further inspection, you’d notice that despite their heaviness and, I’ll admit it, brutality, these guys are preachers, trying to save everyone from "evil." I don’t understand how their "message" can possibly fit with this kind of music, but then again, I don’t really want to. So, although this isn’t bad at all musically, I doubt I’ll ever listen to it again, ‘cause I like to growl along, and I just can’t bring myself to say goofy stuff like, "The reward of Christ’s love," without giggling. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC12**

FETISH 69 - Antibody · Relapse / Release / Nuclear Blast
As indicated by the Release label, this is sorta experimental, but not really much more so than PITCH SHIFTER. Antibody was produced by Colin Richardson, so that should give an idea of what the sound is like: Supreme. All the tracks are heavy and there seems to be a more than a bit of a Death Metal influence here. Very cool, and certainly worth checking out. Favorite song: "Stomachturner." - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC8**

FIEND - Corpse Harvest · demo
Another completely uninteresting homemade CDR of boring beyond belief Death/Thrash. Jesus, was this recorded on one track? The drum programming is a joke, the guitars are barely audible, I don’t hear any bass. The music is jumbled, chopped, and totally void of direction. Every song has a different mix with varying levels and a different vocal style. Hey, FIEND, I don’t mean to be a dick, I know what your aspirations are, but do you really think that a living soul is going to give a shit about your sub par underdeveloped free-time noodlings? You’re not ready yet! So don’t put anything out until you are. I got shit to do. - 1 - <Jack>
hauntingforcemusic@yahoo.com

FIFTH REASON - Psychotic · Heathendoom
Heavy, ripper-like guitar riffs, brutal drum sound, a vocalist that isn’t afraid to show off his octave range and lyrics that have the ability to draw vivid pictures in the mind. Those were all the elements I could think of when I listened to this band’s first track. After listening to the rest, I realized that was the best way to describe this whole album. - 8.75 - <ANG> **MC11**

FIFTYLASHES - Harder · Doctor Dream
Originally, I had planned on saying some bad things about Eric's vocals, but as I listen to this, over and over, I am finding the good outweighs the bad. Musically this band is really there, but Eric's old-school vocal stylings (pre-Thrash singy "yells") are a bit hard to get used to, and sometimes really mess it up. But his great bass playing makes up for it. More yelling, less singing, would make this band great. - 8 - <Ray> **MC9**

FINAL BREATH - Let Me Be Your Tank · Magick
To say that this will appeal to fans of SLAYER, LAMB OF GOD, UNEARTH, and THE HAUNTED is insulting, not only to me, but to anyone who's ever heard music. Not to mention it's a complete lie. This sounds like some fucking JL America/Turbo Thrash! Rehashed, remastered, and repackaged for resale. Stunningly average. A couple of fucking breakdowns doesn't make you UNEARTH. So far, this Magick label hasn't shown me shit. - 5.5 - <Jack>

FINAL EXIT / GONKULATOR - (split) 7" · Fudgeworthy
For those not familiar with FINAL EXIT, they’re extreme Grind/Noise, mixed with weird bits of other musical styles. Something like John Zorn’s PAINKILLER. As for GONKULATOR, they’re the very first, and best, evil Black Noise band. You can’t go wrong with this blue slab of wax. - 9.5 - **MC11**

FINAL TRAGEDY - Trial of Tragedy · DEMO (CD)
This french duo play a melodic, guitar dominated Progressive Metal that reminds me of what DREAM THEATER would sound like with a female singer (actually, that queen from D.T. already sounds like a woman to me). These 4 tunes wind through some unusual and interesting tempo and key changes, but, ultimately they just didn’t hold my attention. My biggest complaint is that this music was obviously composed and performed by a guitarist and as a result the accompanying instruments suffer in their rather uninspired and blatantly programmed execution. If they got some other human musicians in there, the music might end up as cool as the guitar solos. Tasteful layout and a clear production (especially for a home studio recording) top off this talented, if somewhat bland, release. - 7.5 - <Brainhammer> **MC12**

FINGER - Morals Hinder Progress · DEMO (CD)
These guys are pretty cool. FINGER is a three piece consisting of former members of BLACK ART, FIGHT, and STUCK MOJO. Together they work quite well bringing forth a great heavy sound and strong vocals. It isn’t in the same vein as FIGHT, but it does possess some of their strong basslines. A very well done piece of "new" Metal. - 8 - <ANG> **MC11**

FINGER - Finger · DEMO (CD)
FINGER? Hell, I will give them a single thumb up. There is a metric ton of talent here, but it’s nothing I have not heard 20 other bands do more originally for the past ten years. I only wish the disc was as long as the L.A. phone book sized promo pack. - 7 - <Charon> **MC12**

FIREBIRD - Firebird · TMC / Rise Above
Hold on, this must be a different Bill Steer - let me check the bio... Fuck! Okay, this is totally insane. I'd maybe expect that freed from the Doom influence of Lee Dorrian, CATHEDRAL's bassist Leo Smee might very well be involved with a retro '60s/'70s Rock band like this. But Bill Steer? This is about as far away from CARCASS and NAPALM DEATH as you could get. The playing is solid and so on, and I guess they do a good job with what they're doing, but I honestly wouldn't really know and don't care anyway. If I had any interest in this kind of stuff, I'd go listen to the originators, whoever they might be. - 5.25 - <Ray>

FIREWIND - Between Heaven and Hell · Leviathan
I probably should have had Mr. Painkiller review this, because his appreciation of new-wave Power Metal is much great than mine. But even so, this is isn't bad. Thankfully the singer is a little gruffer, and the music slightly heavier (usually more along the lines of TESTAMENT than of HAMMERFALL, but sometimes slipping into SCORPIONS range), than usual, which are very welcomed changes from the norm. But the lyrical repetition, especially in the title track, is irritating. - 7.25 - <Ray>

FIREWIND - Forged by Fire · Magick/Century Media
Power Metal. - 1 - <Jack>

THE FIRSTBORN - The Unclenching of Fists · Procon Media
Black/Death with Middle Eastern elements. These guys want a piece of that NILE pie. I guess everyone's going to start doing this now. Sorry, I'll pass. Innovators only, please. In summary, mukka lukka, derka derka, Mohammed jihad! - 6 - <Jack>

FIRSTBORN EVIL - Rebirth of Evil · Guardians of Metal
Epic, atmospheric Black Metal with flourishes of Traditional Metal. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC12**

FISHBONE - Chim Chim's Badass Revenge · Rowdy
How the shit does one describe FISHBONE? Thrash-Punk Ska-Funk? Damned if I know what to call 'em, except The Nuttsactor 5, 'cause we all cum from the Nuttsack. And don't think that they're jumping on some kinda Punk bandwagon - they've been at this for about a decade. Anyway, this is considerably more diverse and intense than their last effort, Give a Monkey a Brain.... Clearly getting off such a major label as Columbia has allowed them more room to breathe. Every aspect of this LP is amazing: writing, playing, singing, experimentation - everything. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

FISSION - Crater · Napalm
This band plays an absolutely exhausted style of Gothenburg Death/Thrash with about half of the heaviness and aggression that even most lower tier copycats can muster. And the "Folk" aspects are merely moments of JOURNEY awkwardly thrown in. In summary, a forgettable compound of boredom and cheese. Cheddar apparently does not make every bite better. - 5.5 - <Jack>

FISTER - Phrenum · Extract
This trio from the UK are pretty tight. Lots of changes and breakdowns in different directions. A bit more insane and heavy than your average Alterna-Metal band. A lot of interesting dynamics keep this fresh and original. A little silly on occasion though, making the vox the only weak point really. Kinda cool. - 8 - <Bob>

FLAMETHROWER - Flamethrower · Dead Teenager
Apparently you can’t judge a CD by its cover, either. From looking at this one, I thought that FLAMETHROWER would be some kind of terrible Stoner Rock, or something, but that’s not the case at all. Actually this band is a weird Punk/unknown hybrid, I guess. The second song on this disc, "Coked Up," even, umm, "borrows" a bit from the SUICIDAL TENDENCIES classic "Suicide’s an Alternative." Not all the tracks are quite that cool, but the guys do invoke the name of Lemmy in the track "I Want It All," so, that’s something. - 7.75 - <Ray>

FLESH - Flesh · Colorblind
Any band with song titles like "Dancehard," "Who Can Love You," "I Miss My Baby," "Makin' Money," and "Sexxx," obviously has got to fuckin' suck. I think the singer is the sister of the guitarist from EXTREME, or whatever. It was even worse that I thought it would be. Good for a laugh, though. - 1 - <Ray> **MC9**

FLESHCRAWL - Bloodsoul · Black Mark
Sometimes a really clear production will take the balls out of a Death Metal band. Not in this case, though. Bloodsoul sounds very clear, yet is immensely powerful, thanks to Peter Tagtgren (who lends a throat for the title track) and his Abyss studio. Although the songs are not the most memorable I've ever heard, they are certainly brutal, and this is a fine piece of work. They also do an outstanding cover of DEMILICH's "Embalmed Beauty Sleep." - 9 - <Ray> **MC10**

FLESHCRAWL - As Blood Rains from the Sky… We Walk the Path of Endless Fire · Metal Blade
It's good to hear the return of FLESHCRAWL. Somehow I missed out on their last album, Bloodsoul... I'll have to track it down. This new LP is a real monster, but in a more Thrashy way than the current Grind tendencies of a lot of modern Death bands. That's fine with me, of course, and certainly helps to give them a distinct sound. One that also kicks your ass sideways, I might add. And they even do an EXCITER cover. - 9 - <Ray>

FLESHGRIND - Holy Pedophile · DEMO
These vocals are the definition of brutality. I can't really make out any words at all, but I'm sure that it's some sick shit. Musically very intense, but not up to the insanity level of the vocals. Very potent Death. A note for future FLESHGRIND releases: Unless you include a lyric sheet, there is no real need to do anything other than make noises (which is fine), like Jon Tardy used to do, back when he was cool. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

FLESHGRIND - Destined for Defilement · Pulverizer
Chicago is the place in the USA for Death Metal. If I could hear Ray’s basslines a bit better, I’d put this album up against anyone - at least as far as brutality is concerned. Speaking of brutal, Rich’s vocals are mostly inhuman gurgles and grunts, but he occasionally growls out some more normal Death rattles, too. This is just complete decimation from beginning to end. - 9 - <Ray> **MC11**

FLESHGRIND - The Seeds of Abysmal Torment · Olympic / Century Media
For regular readers, it should come as no surprise that this is insanely brutal Death/Grind. What else would you expect from United Guttural records main man, Rich Lipscomb, and his band of sickos? It might, however, be of interest to you to find out that their bassist, Jimmy, also plays guitar for Doom-masters AVERNUS, since FLESHGRIND's blazing intensity is about as un-Doomy as possible. This combination of speed and pure sickness is tempered with the necessary writing ability to create somewhat memorable songs, which is hard enough anyway, but when you take the brutality factor into account, it's almost amazing. The Seeds... is an ass-kicking experience, and nearly flawless, but to completely appreciate this band's true power, you must see them live. - 9.25 - <Ray>

FLESHGRIND - Murder Without End · Olympic / Century Media
Nonstop Death / Grind devastation from beginning to end! And a re-reording of "Holy Pedophile" to finish off the onslaught! What more could you ask for? - 9.25 - <Ray>

FLESHGRINDER - Coroner’s Inquest Suit · Goregiastic
Atrocious. Absolutely awful. Just the worst kind of Gore-Grind you could ever have to imagine. No skill, finesse or craftsmanship, just poorly recorded chunks of speedy and slow slop with sub par Walker/Steer vocal trade-offs spewed aimlessly about. Tenth rate CARCASS. No talent. Pure shit. - 1 - <Jack>

FLESHIES - Gung Ho! · Life Is Abuse
Cheap, sloppy, noisy, thrown together Punk Rock. These guys don’t take themselves too seriously, and coincidentally no sober individual that hears this album will either. - 4 - <Jack>

FLESHLESS / MASTIC SCUM - (split) · Ohne Maulkorb
FLESHLESS start things off with seven tracks of really intense Death, with some Grind elements. They impressed me more for their musical ability and writing memorable songs than for their brutality, but they possess plenty of that, too. MASTIC SCUM also surprised me by starting their half off with a minute of crushing Death Sludge, but that gave way to an odd combination of Crust and Death Grind, but with more of a Punk influence than I was ready for. Their playing is also great, and the production allows the bass to be heard. They even cover DEAD KENNEDYS ("A Child and His Lawnmower"). - 9 - <Ray> **MC11**

FLESHLESS - Grindgod · Obscene
Even the mighty FLESHLESS cannot resist the intro plague, but after a few seconds of a dying heartbeat, the Death Grind starts up, and you’re just pummeled for an hour. The sound they have achieved here is amazing. You can hear everything right down to the impressive basslines, but it’s still extremely thick and of course heavier than you could imagine. And the vocals are horrifically sick abominations, with lyrics and artwork to match, which is to say they’re awesome. So, all told, this is just about all you could ask for. But you get more anyway. In addition to an excellent MASTER’S HAMMER cover, this CD also contains all of FLESHLESS’ Grinding demo, and for some reason, the song "Free Off Pain" from their last album. This is extremely close to perfection, and to be honest, I might just look back on this and wish I’d given it a ten. Time will tell. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

FLESHOLD - Pathetic · Massacre
First off, the vocals really remind me of DEATH, and I guess the music is in the same style, too: Pretty technical Death, with Thrashy parts, and some slower stuff, too. These guys even go one more step and make it all pretty easy to remember, and that's crucial. It gives them a somewhat original sound, and that's hard to accomplish nowadays. Excellent production tops off this great release. - 9 - <Ray> **MC9**

FLESHTIZED - Here Among Thorns · Forever Underground
I was really impressed with the Divide and Conquer demo, so I was a little psyched for this release, but as it is with many things in life, alas I am disappointed. A lot less memorable, a lot more speed, funny how those factors often coincide. Still, this isn't terrible. These guys have always been great musicians, and they have finally achieved a decent production, but perhaps they are just one of those Death Metal bands doomed to always have "something missing." Hopefully their next album will prove me wrong. At least they fixed up their gay logo a little. - 7.5 - <Jack>

FLEURETY - Last-Minute Lies EP · Supernal
Music that’s lighter than air, and even wimpier female vocals. And then the guy starts singing... I didn’t think it could get worse, but at least the chick knew enough to sing in key. This isn’t "experimental," it’s ridiculous. -2 - <Ray> **MC12**

FLEURETY - Department of Apocalyptic Affairs · Supernal Music
The bio reads like a spy novel. Unfortunately, it proves to be far more interesting than the music. FLEURETY suffers from a severe case of schizophrenia. Department of Apocalyptic Affairs throws together elements of Progressive Rock, Jazz, Techno, and Industrial for a completely incoherent mix. The band is a "super-group" of sorts that features members of MAYHEM, ARCTURUS, AURA NOIR, ULVER, and DODHEIMSGARD. I would have thought that a collaboration by this group of musicians would have produced some awe-inspiring Black Metal. Reading through the bio, it seems that these guys are actually mocking the very scene they are a part of. This is their way of giving the middle-finger to Black Metal purists. The only reason I even listened to the entire album is because of its bizarre nature. If you think that the latest efforts by MAYHEM, DHG (formerly DODHEIMSGARD), and ULVER are "ground-breaking," you may enjoy this. If you appreciate bands like IMMORTAL, DARKTHRONE, or EMPEROR, you should avoid this like the plague! - 3 - <Painkiller>

FLIPPER - American Grafishy · Def American
I'll admit it: I never heard FLIPPER before. Sure, I heard of 'em, but I never actually heard them. I guess I wasn't missing much. These guys sound a little Hardcore, a little Punk and a little Art-Alternative. It's weird, but not really in the good way. I just don't get the feeling of energy from this. I'm not exactly sure what they were trying accomplish with this LP. It has its moments; about enough for an EP.  - 7 - <Ray> **MC7**

FLOODGATE - Penalty · Roadrunner
So this is what Kyle has been doing since the demise of EXHORDER. I expected things to change gears out of this "Hard Alternative" style into something heavier, but it didn't happen. At their best, FLOODGATE might be comparable to KYUSS, but they barely achieve that level for a combined total of 2 minutes on this nearly hour long disc. - 6 - <Ray> **MC10**

FLOOR - Seven Inch Record · Rhetoric
A very impressive sleeve surrounds this strange, sample-laden, Groove-heavy EP. It's tough to accurately describe the music, but if a band like KYUSS were way tougher, that might come close. When there are vocals, they are off in the distance, giving the whole thing an eerie dream-like quality. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

FLOTSAM AND JETSAM - When the Storm Comes Down · MCA
FLOTSAM AND JETSAM’s newest work, to be frank, left something to be desired. The music seems to have slowed down. Eric A.K. tries to sing more on this LP than on the other two. Granted, every single song has a cool part or two, but one or two cool parts per song does not make a good album. I’m not sure I can pinpoint a reason for the new style, but as they, themselves said in the song "Deviation," they can "give no explanation for deviation." My best guess would be that they tasted a little fame with No Place For Disgrace, and like many other bands thought it was a licence to become funky. "E.M.T.E.K." and "K.A.B." are both cool songs which I hope come out on a single (which would be worth buying). I believe they can do better. If they could be fierce for a whole album, not just a few bars, they would a force. Maybe they should do more Elton John covers. I give this LP two thumbs down. Come on guys, I expect better than this. <Lar>
{Believe it or not, but F&J is still releasing albums, each improving a bit on the previous one. Their 1997 album, High, saw them make a return to Metal Blade after about a decade on other labels. In these bleak days of bands bowing down to the mindless likes of KORN and PANTERA, it was good to hear High and know that at least some of the old timers have the sense and desire to still be themselves. F&J have also just released a new LP, Unnatural Selection, but I have not yet had the opportunity to give it a spin. So, while not the best band I’ve ever heard, FLOTSAM has my respect. Unfortunately they’ve never gotten the recognition they really deserve, so they may have to try to live on my respect alone.} **MC2**

FLOTSAM AND JETSAM - Cuatro · MCA
Aren't all your favorite bands doing the big "sellout"? What about FLOTSAM AND JETSAM? They put out that nasty When the Storm Comes Down album a while back. They also did two kick-ass albums (Doomsday... & ...Disgrace). So now they come back with a new album and yet another bassist: Jason B. Ward. A lot of people are going to cry "sellout" when they hear this, but not me. I like it. I know it's not as fast or memorable as their first two, but this is still good. Eric A.K.'s voice is better than ever. No sellout. - 8 - <John T> **MC8**

FLOTSAM & JETSAM - Drift · MCA
I was a little worried that they might alter their style, but they came through for me again. Certainly Thrashy, and definitely intense, this is maybe even better than their last album, Cuatro, which I liked quite a bit. There is even a little Industrial-ness poking its head through here and there. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

FLOTSAM AND JETSAM - High · Metal Blade
Every review you read for this album will mention that this LP brings the band back home to Metal Blade, after a decade of other labels. Big deal, what’s the music like? Much like their last album, Drift, this is Thrash done in a way that few others attempt these days. I suppose that these guys are sort of throwbacks to earlier times, but as long as they make LPs like this one, that’s fine with me. Far from being a remake of their earlier work, High is more a refinement, and may be their best album since No Place for Disgrace. Nice cover of LARD’s "Forkboy," too. - 9 - <Ray> **MC11**

FLOTSAM AND JETSAM - My God · Metal Blade
Well, I'm sick today - I have the flu - so if this review (or any other I write under the influence of NyQuil) sucks or makes no sense, that could be why. Hey, I can't just skip a day! I've got a job to do here, and Metal Curse isn't one of those fag zines that only has a handful of reviews each issue. Anyway, for as much as respect the efforts of F&J, this is just not an album that I like all that much. "But you like their other shit, right?" Yeah, I do. Most of it anyway. But something about this just doesn't do it for me. The repetition in the lyrics isn't helping, and neither are the occasional weird riffs. I have long since grown used to Eric A.K.'s vocals (except when they're a little overdriven, such as at the beginning of the somewhat Industrial-sounding "Camera Eye"), so that's not it. This isn't the first time that things have not 100% come together for these guys, thogh, so I have faith (no pun intended) that they can fix things and come back with a great album next time. But that's we get for now: hope that the next one will be better. - 7.5 - <Ray>

FLOWERLAND - Kick Us When We're Down · DEMO
These guys are like a jumpier, funkier, thicker ALICE IN CHAINS, and believe it or not, their singer is just as bad. - 5 - <Ray> **MC9**

FLOWERLAND - Pretty Little Twisted EP · Kick Us When We're Down
These guys sound like a somewhat faster and more talented PEARL JAM. The loud bass, and generally excellent sound really help it out for me, but this is a style I simply don't honestly like. I would, however, say that if you at all like such bands as SOUNDGARDEN, ALICE IN CHAINS, or the aforementioned PEARL JAM, then you would have to love FLOWERLAND. - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

FLOWING TEARS - Razorbliss · Magick / Century Media
The tears in question are obviously those of any heterosexual who has been subjected to Power Metal’s answer to EVANESCENCE. - 1 - <Jack>

FOETICIDE - Life and Death · American Line
FOETICIDE wisely trade in a little brutality to make the songs catchy, but are still very much in the circle of Death. They also experiment a little, and vary their speed a lot. The production is a bit raw, which is too bad, since the songs are great, but I'm sure it was the best sound they could get. I hope American Line (or whoever) can afford a better studio for FOETICIDE next time, since they deserve it. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

FOG - Through the Eyes of Night · WWIII
This band hails from the USA, but you'd hardly guess it. They sound quite European. And in the Black Metal genre, I guess that can be considered a compliment. FOG could very easily fit in with most of the Norse Black Metal bands when it comes to sound and with their talent level, they could also fit in with the top bands over there. As it stands, they're one of America's top bands when it comes to sick-ass Black Fucking Metal. If any band comes to mind while listening to this, I have to say that it's MARDUK. The tempo and sound are very similar to Heaven Shall Burn..., but with some variations in the style (use of keyboards on one track, acoustic guitar and clean vocals on another). The production is also quite impressive with the guitars being razor sharp and the bass being audible for the most part. My guess is that this band is quite a spectacle live because this stuff sounds like it would cause some major mayhem in the pit at your local Metal club. - 9.5 - <Ychoril>

FOR LOVE NOT LISA - Merge · EastWest
Mostly this is nothing too spectacular. But also nothing too terrible. And occasionally something really cool happens. With a bit of time, FLNL could develop into a real power. Favorite track: "Merge." - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

FOR LOVE NOT LISA - Softhand EP · EastWest
Of these five tracks, three are on their Merge album, and I wouldn't say they were exactly the best three, either. But also present is their cover of "Rocket Ride," complete with some help from the Space Ace himself - which is okay, I suppose. The other track, "I Can't Make You Love Me," is good, but hardly saves this. I'd get Merge first. - 7.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

FORBIDDEN - Twisted Into Form · Combat/Relativity Records
I think Combat wants FORBIDDEN to be big, METALLICA kind of big. This might be the album to it, too. But, let’s introduce the band first: Craig Locicero (lead & 6 string acoustic guitars), Russ Anderson (vocals), Paul Bostaph (drums), Tim Calvert (lead, 6 & 12 string acoustic guitars) Matt Camacho (bass).
Now about the LP: This is not a typical Thrash album, or band for that matter. They experiment (I use that word with extreme caution) with different things, most often it is the vocals. Usually a band with music this heavy has a KREATOR style singer, Russ can sing in this "from the balls" style, but he can also actually sing, which is rare and often detracts from the power of the music. In this case, the only time Russ’s singing bothered me was on the track "One Foot In Hell," but even that wasn’t too bad.
Highlights include: "Infinite," "Step by Step," the instrumental "Spiral Depression," and the title track.
This is an extremely strong second attempt, especially considering that almost all bands’ 2nd LP is their worst one. <Ray>
{FORBIDDEN would never again come close to the greatness of this album, and have since faded from view here in the US. I understand that they still have a little following in Europe, and perhaps Japan, but I’ve also been told that their newer material has taken on a NWOHSCPM (New Wave Of Homosexual So-Called Power Metal) "attitude," so who cares about these poseurs? Yet this was, and is still, nearly a masterpiece.} **MC2**

FORBIDDEN - Distortion · Massacre
This starts really strong. I was worried about the drums, as their former skin beater is now in the mighty SLAYER, but drum-wise this is just fine, thank you. Russ succumbs to a little vocal distortion every now and then, which is suicide for him. And the riffs occasionally falter, and sound like that horrid "new Thrash" now called (by some) "Power Metal." When not vocally distorted, and not stealing riffs from former Hairspray Rockers, this is okay, but those are transgressions which I simply cannot forgive. - 6.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

FORCED ENTRY - As Above, So Below · Combat
Here we have some impressive Hardcore Thrash. The songs are, perhaps a bit long, but they are all cool. This album also shows that FORCED ENTRY have a sense of humor, with such songs as "We're Dicks" & "How We Spent Our Summer Vacation." They deal with a lot of interesting subjects in their lyrics. Musically impressive, lyrically entertaining and vocally powerful; this is a band to watch out for and As Above, So Below an album to buy. Favorite quote (from "We're Dicks"): "Fuck off, or I'll kill you." - 9 - <Ray> **MC5**

FORCED TOO DECAY - Lächeln Als Leistung · Autonomy
Death, Doom, Black Metal, Thrash, even Alternative Rock. - 8 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

FORESKIN 500 - Manpussy · Basura! / Priority
Mildly distorted vocals + "loud" guitars + record scratches = FORESKIN 500 = total and complete shit. Why do bands like this get signed? - 2 - <Ray> **MC9**

FOREST OF IMPALED - Demonvoid · Red Stream
Totally fuckin' cult blackened Death Metal. A snare drum sound similar to 1980s German Thrash, barbed fishhook guitar riffs and keyboards intelligently blended into the melody. FOREST OF IMPALED traces over the razor line separating Black Metal and Death Metal with the precision of a surgeon consummating the blasphemous, bloody union of the best elements from both genres. Congratulations to Pat at Red Stream for seeing the potential of this band. An audio scalpel almost unparalleled nowadays. Hail to perfection! - 10 - <Quade>

FORGE - Decloaking · Static
A nice thick Thrashy sound, interesting (and well done) sung / yelled vocals and a healthy respect for Batman. You’ve got to like that, I suppose. It takes a few listens to really understand what all is going on with the music and lyrics. FORGE is certainly a heavy band, generally employing slower tempos, but they aren’t afraid of speeding it up when they think they should. Sure, there are some rough spots, but I’ll be expecting a lot from their next album. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

FORGIVE-ME-NOT - Spaceapple · Metal Agen
I have no idea why I like this Hard Rock album. Maybe it's a little "dark" like BABYLON WHORES or something, but not too much. Perhaps it's that the vocals have at least a little "edge" to them and are not at all wimpy. And neither is the crunchy guitar tone. I guess it's just that the songs are so super-memorable. Whatever the mysterious reasons, I thoroughly enjoyed this disc. - 9 - <Ray>

FORGOTTEN SILENCE - Thots · Obscene / Metal Age
I don’t exactly have the whole story on this, but it appears to be the soundtrack to a film. At any rate, what you really care about is what it sounds like, so here it is: Progressive Death / Thrash. The playing on here is nothing short of amazing, & the production flawless. The music ranges from Thrashy Death to acoustic technical orgasms, the likes of which would make the guys in FATES WARNING kill themselves. The only even remotely "bad" part of this is that it tends to make the songs seem a bit fragmented, and not as memorable as they would be otherwise. That’s all that’s keeping this from a 10, and it’s not by much. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

FORGOTTEN SON - Celestial Decease · DEMO
Another Death band that is suffering from poor production. With better production, I’m sure anyone who listens to this tape would agree that more of this band’s creativity would show through. But, sometimes you have to get past all the rough edges in order to see the real thing. These guys possess a brutally honest approach to Death Metal. The vocalist is very aggressive, the songs are well constructed, there’s also a great deal of Gothic style keyboarding throughout and the guitarist for this band has an ear for melodic speed. - 7.25 - <ANG> **MC11**

THE FORGOTTEN - To Walk the Forest Black · DEMO
Maybe I should call this "Black Doom." THE FORGOTTEN can get fast and evil, or alternately slow and depressing. But they keep these two long songs interesting, no matter the speed. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC12**

FORLORN - Forlorn EP · Head Not Found
Not that this is bad, or that I don’t like the IN FLAMES style, they’re going for, but the "beautiful" keyboards get on my nerves, as do the clean vocals. When a more harsh vocal style is implemented and the keyboards are either darker sounding or absent, it’s cool. But they don’t keep the aggression up for very long at a time. I guess that explains why this disc is only 23 minutes long. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

FORLORN - Ad Caelestis Res · Napalm
Pretentious Black Metal "art." It's fast. It has keyboards. And screechy vocals. And totally unmemorable songs that try their best to sound "epic" and important, but can't manage it. I've heard it all a thousand times before, and didn't care then, either. And what's up with this über-dorky cover art? - 7.5 - <Ray>

FORNICATOR - Fornicator · Moribund
I don't even begin to know where to start with this one. Moribund will certainly take some shit about releasing an album that starts with a song called "I'm a Goddamn Rapist." The cover of the classic "Just Let Me Rot" sounds extremely natural, since FORNICATOR is stylistically somewhat similar to early PUNGENT STENCH, although the production here is absolutely beyond belief (somehow both raw and polished at the same time!). But they didn't recreate my favorite part of the song - the pitch-shifted vocals getting lower and lower during the repetition of the title. They make up for that little flaw with their great version of GG Allin's "Anti-Social Masturbator," though. These guys are some sick fucks - maybe the sickest - and so rightfully this is one diseased CD, too. - 9 - <Ray>

THE FORSAKEN - Manifest of Hate · Century Media
Recorded at the legendary Abyss studio, this fast, Thrashy Swedish Death has the expected clear, powerful modern sound. - 8.25 - <Ray>

JAYE FOUCHER - Infectious Licks · Fuism
I never expect much from so-called "guitar heroes," so I was surprised to discover that this chick can crank ‘em out with the best. She’s occasionally heavier than Vai or Satriani, but like those geeks, she succumbs to the temptation to try to sing. That fucks up everything. Obviously she can play her ass off, and knows enough to at least make an attempt to be heavy, and every once in a while one of her leads is sorrowful enough to make you hurt. So I think the instrumental tracks are about the best any guitar hero could hope to come up with. But the tracks with vox bring this way down. Jaye loses the heaviness and the intricacy of the music to make way for her all too "Hard Rock babe" vox. I have upped the rating a (very) little because Jaye has wisely decided to rely on her playing ability alone (unlike a lot of other women musicians), and there are no "sexy" photos of her to be found here. - 8 - <Ray> **MC11**

FOUL PLAY / OLIVER MAGNUM - Split 7" · Bright Green
FOUL PLAY are, I guess, a Hard Rock band. They're good musicians, but I have trouble standing this style. OLIVER MAGNUM are heavier, maybe along the lines of early OVERKILL, in both music and vocals. On marbled pink vinyl. - 6 - <Ray> **MC9**

FOUL STENCH - Jiz Mark · DEMO
Totally stupid lyrics, and silly stage names aside, the songs on this demo are really, really, really catchy, especially the title track. They're kinda heavy, too. This is goofy as shit, but I like it. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

FOUL STENCH - Original Recipe · DEMO
These guys specialize in writing extremely catchy songs. So catchy in fact, that the title track to their first demo (Jiz Mark) still haunts my brain after about two years since I first heard it. None of these six songs are quite that memorable, but they're pretty damn close, and they're way heavier - a strange combination of Thrash & Death, with more obvious CELTIC FROST influences. The lyrics are still goofy, but I appreciate goofy lyrics. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

FOUR SEATS FOR INVALIDES - Livestock 7" · Napalmed
FOUR SEATS have always been intense, and these eight songs, recorded live in 1997, show a little of what one of their performances would be like. Admittedly, the sound is a bit raw, and the mix somewhat vocal heavy, and would have been helped by more up front guitars, but all things considered, this is certainly more than worth a listen. And it’s on "infection yellow" vinyl, too. - 8 - <Ray> **MC12**

FOUR SEATS FOR INVALIDES - Defy · Cephalic / Plazzma / Napalmed
I have a great amount of respect for this long-running, battle-tested Grindcore troop from the Czech Republic, so it pains me to alert you that Defy is a total letdown for me, bordering on embarrassment. The music just isn't as sharp, nowhere near as intense. The vocals don't sound as good, and this may be the poorest job of drum programming I've ever heard. It's erratic, jumbled, and sloppy with an overall sound that tortures the listener with its annoyance. What's really sad is that this band has been churning out solid underground releases for the better part of over a decade without ever really breaking through. To my ears, this is a tremendous setback. I hope for a rebound, because these sick fucks really do know how to Grind. - 6 - <Jack>

FREAK SHOW - Freak Show · Red Eye
Their first song is called "Into the Void" and it's not a BLACK SABBATH cover. However they do cover a BEASTIE BOYS song. Sorry, guys, I don' think so. - 5.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

FREEDOM CALL - Crystal Empire · SPV
More "new wave" Power Metal. At least these guys are from Germany. As you would expect, this is well played, and superbly recorded, but this kind of lighter-than-helium Rock / Metal really has to be awesome for me to even take notice anymore... - 7.5 - <Ray>

FREYA - As the Last Light Drains · Victory
God damn there are a lot of stupid bastards in media journalism. I have not seen any positive press for this album written anywhere, and it makes me sick. What the hell is wrong with this album? A couple filler tracks, fine, but a dismal failure? Not by a fuckin' long shot. This band essentially is EARTH CRISIS as far as I'm concerned, and a bit in the vein of Slither (which I also liked by the way). Albeit with the groove toned down a little and melodic singing introduced. The playing is tight, Karl's barking is razor sharp, and who could forget the choruses to the title track and "Throwing Rocks at a Drowning Man?" And lyrically, we filthy meateaters and smokers are finally spared in favor of much deeper content. Things every person feels. I find little to complain about here. (And while I'm at it, Freddy vs. Jason was an awesome movie, and In Torment in Hell features some of the best DEICIDE songs of all time. Stupid fucking critics!) - 9.25 - <Jack>

FRIGATE - Blow Me Down · Spinning
Yeah, I'm a Death Metal freak at my innermost core, but I've always enjoyed throwing a little Pop-Punk into the mix to break things up. Good music is good music, right? Well, good music FRIGATE ain't. Not by a long shot. Disgustingly upbeat and happy, FRIGATE at their very best sound like a watered-down, candy-coated version of that '80s group that sang "That's What I Like About You." There are male and female vocalists, both of which are sterile, irritatingly cheerful, and downright intolerable. This is total fucking cheese. Avoid this musical and lyrical lack of ingenuity at all costs. - 1 - <Jack>

FRIGHTMARE - Midnight Murder Mania · Razorback
While FRIGHTMARE is certainly capable of delivering the sickness, their brand of Horror flick-inspired Death/Grind does little to set themselves apart from the growing crop. When you’re dealing with the Razorback camp, the footsteps of standouts like LORD GORE, GHOUL, and MACHETAZO just to name a few, are not easy to follow in. It’s not as if they do anything poorly, and I’m not saying they don’t have a timeless classic up their sleeve, this just isn’t it. Brutal and drenched in gore, but the most memorable moments of Midnight Murder Mania are unfortunately the samples. - 7 - <Jack>

FROM FORGOTTEN BEING - Ancient Land Legends · TOAJ
Keybaords and wind. Without even checking for corpsepaint, I'll bet this must be a Black Metal album. Come on, people! There must be other "truly evil" ways to start an album than always with keyboards and wind! And then the generally fast Black Metal assault starts. When F.F.B. slows things down a little (and don't get the idea that I like "slow" better than "fast" - I just like what's best for the song) and the keyboards are allowed to create an eerie atmosphere, things do seem to work better for them. Maybe it's the production, which is on the thin side, and tends to make the fast parts sound tinny. In any case, this has moments of genius. If they can concentrate on those, and get even a little thicker sound next time, perfection would not be out of reach. - 8.75 - <Ray>

FROM THE DEPTHS - From the Depths · Dismal
After the atmospheric, majestic intro (excluding what sounds like a bad spot of their master), FROM THE DEPTHS tear into high gear with their demonic onslaught. Sometimes they seem to be an orthodox fast Black Metal act, but just when you think you've got a handle on them, they throw in some clean vocals, or a couple Death grunts, or maybe some whispers. Then there are the speed/style shifts. These fiends change from Grind to Ambient in less than the space of a heartbeat, and make it sound not only seamless, but effortless. The 13 second scream in the beginning of "Curse of the Scarecrow" is well worth the price by itself. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

FROM THE DEPTHS - Elysium · Nightfall/Terrorizer
Black Technical Death. These guys are pretty good. Not ultra speedy but fast when called for, and symphonic at times with a little Thrashy flavor to boot. Nice riffs. What's not to like? - 8.5 - <Bob>

FROM ZERO - One Nation Under · Arista
Checking the press release, I see that these "New Metal" poseurs are from Chicago. They must never go out in public, or I'm sure that CIANIDE or someone would have executed them by now. - 1 - <Ray>

FROSTMOON - Tordenkrig 7" · Oskorei
Ahh, here we have some evil Black Metal [Is there any other kind of Black Metal? -Ed.]. In this case, five tracks worth, with a production raw enough to give this a somewhat heavy sound. - 8 - <Ray> **MC12**

FROZEN SHADOWS - Hantises · Holy
If your CD collection is lacking in uninspired, unmemorable Black Metal albums that you’ll never listen to, FROZEN SHADOWS feel your pain and have come through with that heartless slab of tenth rate IMMORTAL destined to be sold for gas money the world over. Holy must be getting pretty fucking desperate. - 1 - <Jack>

FUCK... I'M DEAD - Bring on the Dead · Razorback
This Grind assault is intensity personified, but despite what the press release tries to tell me, there isn't a single "catchy riff" on here. In fact, almost everything is buried beneath the unrelenting onslaught of the inhumanly fast, machine drumming (isn't it "cheating" for a Grind band to use a drum machine?). I've got to give this band points for sheer sonic brutality, but as evidenced by virtually every band on the Czech Republic's Obscene Productions label (and quite a few others), it is possible to be this brutal and also "catchy" at the same time. - 7.5 - <Ray>

FUCKFACE - Don’t Hate Us Cause We’re... 7" · Poverty
You certainly get a lot of "goodies" with this one: Two stickers, a napkin with lyrics on it, and a little zine/lyric booklet. The music is interesting (although not amazing), too: Energetic, raw Hardcore. - 8 - **MC11**

FUCKFACE / HICKEY - (split) 7" · Shapunk
The FUCKFACE side is a bit more intense that their above reviewed 7", so naturally I like it better. As for HICKEY, they play a lot more mellow style of Punk, but it’s actually really catchy, and they do it quite well. They also know when to inject some Hardcore intensity. - 8.25 - **MC11**

FUDGE FACTORY INC. - Fudge Factory Inc. · Mongrel
The bass is loud in the mix, and the songs are mostly at least listenable, if not good or even really good. The lyrics usually bite, and the vocals could be OK, but I think the singer wants to sound stupid. At least they have some energy, which is one of the many things utterly missing from what now passes as Alternative music. - 5.75 - <Ray> **MC8**

FUDGE TUNNEL - Hate Songs in E Minor · Relativity/ Earache
This one opens up with "Hate Song," which sounds like a ssllooowww SUICIDAL TENDENCIES, right down to the Mike Muir sound-alike. The band itself claims "none of the lyrics on this record mean anything, so don't waste your time." I didn't. I do like the Punk influences this album shows, but I usually like things faster. Additionally, there is a distinct lack of heaviness, although the bass is the dominant instrument. Included is a short quip on "How to Kill." -not bad. - 6.75 - <Lar> **MC6**

FUDGE TUNNEL - In a Word · Earache
This compilation of various bits and pieces is perhaps their best release to date. Clearly, their earlier stuff was the best. I hope they listen to this themselves and try to recapture whatever they had back then that made Earache, or anyone else, ever give a damn about them. - 8 - <Ray> **MC9**

FUDGE TUNNEL - The Complicated Futility of Ignorance · Earache
I'm not really too moved by this album. Sure, it's semi heavy, and all that, but it leaves me flat. Sometimes the lads muster up a little energy, or do something pretty cool, but for the most part, I'll pass. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

FULL CIRCLE - Negative · Leviathan
The very oddly colored, computer-generated, cover art led me to believe that FULL CIRCLE would be something a lot better than the PANTERA clone they apparently are. It's almost funny to think that anyone would take them seriously. - 2 - <Ray> **MC9**

FUN-DA-MENTAL - Seize the Time · Mammoth / Atlantic
Well, I'm the wrong guy to review any Rap albums, but I must say that the production, use of samples, and layering of the music are pretty good. The beats seem a bit more interesting than most of the other Rap I've heard, which isn't much. I can't say that I like the "kill whitey" lyrics very much, though. Or is it only racism when a white says "kill blacky"? What idiots. - 4 - <Ray> **MC9**

FUNERAL AGE - Fistful of Christ · demo
God damn, do these guys want to be VADER! Amazingly, aside from lacking their unparalleled rhythmic dynamics, they pull it off. It’s quite an accomplishment when you consider how unique and original the techniques of the long-running Polish masters really are. Even Kevin Bedra’s vocals are a dead ringer for a young Peter Wiwczarek. That alone is really saying something! This drummer is no joke, either. He might be able to fill in for the real VADER. You might hear some critics calling this unoriginal for the overtly obvious stylistic inspiration, but FUNERAL AGE have impressed the fuck out of me. Next time your band gets together for practice, you try sounding like VADER. Let me know how that goes. It’s even more impressive when you consider these guys are from the U.S. A record deal is not far from these guys, in fact, it wouldn’t surprise me if they were signed already. - 9 - <Jack>
www.funeralage.4t.com

FUNERAL INCEPTION - Anthems of Disenchantment · Warpath
When a band is named after possibly the coolest SUFFOCATION song ever written, you tend to have high hopes. For the most part, Indonesia's FUNERAL INCEPTION meet the lofty expectations with a non-stop assault of lightning fast, super-technical Death/Grind battery. The drummer is fucking amazing! He finds prodigious ways to cultivate the blast beat a la Pete Sandoval from his TERRORIZER days. The vocalist also gives a noteworthy performance. His bestial esophagus wrench echoes the work of Joe Ptacek during BROKEN HOPE's Metal Blade career. All these attributes mentioned are undeniable, but this could still be better. If these guys would just attempt a breakdown once in a while, my heart would probably stop. Just the slightest touch of groove, added to the dizzying guttural whirlwind these maniacs normally create, would astound the listener to heights of euphoria. As is, they run on sheer brutality alone, which may be enough for you. - 8.5 - <Jack>

FUNERAL MOON - Beneath the Cursed Light. · Guttural
These guys claim to be "Black Funeral Metal," I certainly agree with the "Black Funeral" part, but "Metal" is almost nonexistent. This is virtually all synths. They're trying to create "dark, atmospheric landscapes of sound." It's not bad for background music, but if you can actually listen to this and stay awake, you must get a lot more sleep than I do! They stick in a hint of guitar and drums in one song, and it's so simplistic that I think I may have preferred it without these instruments. - 4.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

FUNERAL MOON - Silent Night of Full Moon Shine · DEMO
This is evil ritual Ambient soundscapes. This kind of stuff relaxes me immensely, but I think it's intended to be creepy or disturbing. I like it, but maybe not in the way I'm supposed to. Eventually some guitars and minimalistic drums show up, but they are not used in the traditional way and add to the atmosphere instead. - 8 - <Ray> **MC10**

FUNERAL NATION - State of Insanity · DEMO
This band from Chicago has put out an excellent demo. It is fast and pounding. The band’s sound is more controlled than most raw Death. The vocals are fierce, yet the lyrics are understandable, even without a lyric sheet (always a plus). For once none of the lyrics are about abortions, drug use, crooked televangelists or acid rain. All of which have been done to the point where I want to give Tammy Faye an injection of chlorofluorocarbons to kill her unborn child. It’s like a breath of fresh air. If anyone comes out of the underground in the nineties, it should be FUNERAL NATION. Watch them. - 8.5 - <Lar>
{More demos, a 7" and two albums (really more like two versions of the same album, with a few variant tracks, and different layouts), After the Battle and Come Kingdom Thy, then they vanished.} **MC4**

FUNERAL NATION - After the Battle · Turbo
This is one of the best and most Satanic bands from the Chicago area. Mike has an original voice, kinda like a more brutal Cronos. The cover of the album is awesome and will surely offend some people. It features a huge pentagram and a bowl of blood. The drum work on this album is awesome and fucking heavy. The demo songs are are even better than they were on the demo (and it slayed the Nazarene child). The guitar solos are impressive and the bass is great, too. FUNERAL NATION is one of the best bands out there today. - 9.75 - <Tom> **MC7**

FUNERAL NATION - The Benediction · DEMO
A bit more Thrashy than I was expecting. And definitely more commercial, at least on the track "Encased in Glass." But having said all this, The Benediction is actually pretty good. Not as good as their unbelievable After the Battle album, but that could well be impossible, and they are trying to incorporate some new styles. - 8 - <Ray> **MC8**

FUNERAL RITES - Necroeater · Painkiller
FUNERAL RITES, hailing from Japan, play symphonic, melodic Black Metal. The vocal and drumming styles remind me of DARKTHRONE, while the overall strong structures are more akin to early DIMMU BORGIR. The combination of these two styles makes for an incredibly diverse album that never gets boring. The songs vary in speed from mid-paced to fast, and no two tracks ever suffer from that dreaded feeling of "sameness." Necroeater offers enough variety that any fan of Black Metal should find something to enjoy on this release. The album has a sound that is sinister and eerie, giving it a dark, brooding atmosphere. One problem I see with this release, however, is a lack of continuity. It seems to jump around a little too much. Track 4, "Disenchantment," is a beautiful classically-inspired synth-piece, but it sounds completely out of place with the rest of the songs. Perhaps if it were placed at the end of the release, it would make more sense. And, I swear, there is a riff in track 7, "13th Disciple," that sounds like it was lifted from the song "Epic" by FAITH NO MORE. Very odd indeed! FUNERAL RITES is the first Black Metal band from Japan that I have ever listened to and, overall, I enjoyed Necroeater because it avoids sounding "typical." An interesting release that is definitely worth a listen. - 8 - <Painkiller>

FUNERARIUM - A.M.O.R.C. · demo
Melodic, suicidal Black Metal that occasionally falls prey to cheesy Industrial segments. Their musical ideas are good, I'm actually reminded of the mighty THY SERPENT from time to time, but they need to get the vocals straight. This dude sounds like Cobra Commander, and then there's the guest vocals by Pavirotti. It just doesn't work for some reason. There's no question that with a better singer and a cutback on the mechanized elements, this would get a much higher rating. - 8.25 - <Jack>
funerarium@fr.st

FUNERARIUM - Demo 2005 · demo
Was this thing recorded in a truck stop bathroom? Perhaps in the woods or under water? With my stereo on full blast, I can faintly hear a decent BURZUM/HADES rip-off, but the sound of the recording, with its varying levels and barely audible vocals, just cripples the attempt. - 6 - <Jack>
pascal.dupont@pch.etat.lu

FUNEROT - Invasion from the Death Dimension · Razorback
More like an invasion from the tight-rolled, acid-washed jean dimension. My how far Crossover has come in the last couple decades. Not the usual Death/Gore/Grind fare we’ve come to expect from Razorback, this is total CRYPTIC SLAUGHTER, SUICIDAL TENDENCIES, D.R.I. and S.O.D. worship. Don’t get me wrong, I love those bands, but this is 2006. Why would I reach for the 20-year late carbon copy when I can spin the actual vintage? Nowadays mixing Hardcore and Metal calls for an increase in heaviness and precision, two things FUNEROT abandon completely. They will bust out a SLAYER riff now and then, but sometimes this even lapses into the sloppy, unfocused Punk vibes of shit bands like BLACK FLAG and MURPHY’S LAW. The vocals probably hold this back more than anything. They are pure shit, no talent whatsoever. These guys are all probably cool, harmlessly paying a little homage, and I’ve got respect for the throwback types, but I don’t see their affectedly juvenile effort uprooting HEAVEN SHALL BURN or BLEEDING THROUGH from my stereo anytime soon. - 4.75 - <Jack>

FUNERUS - Festering Earth · Ibex Moon
Excellent old fashioned Death Metal featuring INCANTATION main men John McEntee and Kyle Severn. 'nuff said. - 9 - <Ray>

FURBOWL - The Autumn Years · Black Mark
I am reminded of DISMEMBER a bit. Well, maybe an occasionally more Rock oriented DISMEMBER. Pretty cool if you ask me. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

FURIA - Thy Second Month of Winter · DEMO (CD)
I’m guessing that this is a demo released on CD because unless this happens to be one of those totally fucking with your head moments, I kind of doubt that Furia Records just happened to sign them. That would be like a label like Nuclear Blast going out and finding a band called Nuclear Blast and then signing them to release an album. Anyway, this is some fairly competently executed Black Metal (minus the excessive makeup) complete with a vocalist who sounds like he took singing lessons from Varg Vikerns. The three songs (plus intro) are pretty tight and sound very melodic. Not FALL OF THE LEAFE melodic (where you sit there and go, "Damn that’s melodic!"), but not DARKTHRONE either. - 8.5 - <Ychoril> **MC12**

FURIOUS TRAUMA - Roll the Dice · Season of Mist
With both Michael Denner and Andy LaRocque contributing guitar solos to this, I wasn’t expecting to hear any harmonica, but here it is. At times this band is all Rock and Roll, while others they get a lot more Thrashy. And the vocals are weird, too. If they want to appeal to Rock fans, I would think that these raspy, hoarse vocals would hinder their efforts. Maybe I just don’t get it. - 4 - <Ray> **MC12**

THE FUROR - Invert Absolute · Prime Cuts
With a name like THE FUROR (albeit spelled incorrectly), I was at least expecting some cool lyrics. Nothing here but average, fast Black Metal. The same old shit done to death. Boring as fuck! - 5 - <Jack>

FURVUS - Deflorescens Iam Robur · Beyond
What the fuck is this?!? Some keyboards, a guy talking... I had to really concentrate to even remotely pay any attention to this crap, and even then my thoughts would quickly drift to something - anything - else. I repeat: what the fuck is this?!? Other than as annoying, I mean. - 1 - <Ray>

THE FURY - A Dozen Thorns 7" · The Downe & Canton Organization
This is freaky. The first song, "The Institution," hit me in the face like a pissed off wolverine. However, the other three tunes didn't evoke exactly the same response. THE FURY play an interesting Punk/ Crossover style and their drummer, The Hammer, is pretty kick-ass. The recording quality and production are both above average, and this 7" is packaged in a "special foldout poster." This is a really decent effort, plus one awesome song. It shows what THE FURY can do and their range. And, lest I forget, one of the members is wearing a MOTÖRHEAD shirt in the band shot/ poster. Like free stickers, that's always cool. - 8 - <Ray> **MC7**

THE FURY - Sex... · DEMO
Pretty energetic and fairly Punky sounding. I think perhaps if the songs were a little shorter, I might like this better, as they seem to occasionally drag. Sometimes the lyrics are sorta wrong too. Every now and then, something really great happens, but it's almost never sustained. This has a lot of good elements, but they're spread out among the songs. - 8 - <Ray> **MC8**

FURY OF FIVE - This Time It's Personal · Victory
Macho-core! I must admit after looking at the band's photos, I'm a little scared for my life to insult them, but fuck it, it has to be done. This shit sucks ass! They're Christians, they're wiggers, they're super tough, and they want to beat your ass for no reason. I just don't get it. The music is lifeless and dull; all attitude, no heart. Rap-based stomping rhythms for the school bully, I'll pass. - 1 - <Jack>