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

Review Archive: G

G.F.93 - G.Oetia F.Etish 19.93 · Copro
Doesn't the title of this plastic abortion tell you that it must suck? Perhaps it gets better after the first 30 seconds of the third track (somehow I doubt it), but that's when the "Rapping" begins in earnest, so I wouldn't know. Fuck this fruitbooty bullshit! These idiots might just as well go back to doing Top 40 covers, or whatever they did before someone told them "the kids really like that Rap / Metal stuff!" - 1 - <Ray>

G.G. ALLIN & BULGE - Legalize Murder 7" · Fudgeworthy
Now that G.G. is dead, this will surely be a collectors item. The two musical tracks on side one are typical Allin: Loud, raw and messy as hell. An added plus is a cool radio spot. Side two consists solely of an eerie spoken word segment with a bizarre musical background (and is also on the BULGE Penis Rising 10"). As strange as you would expect.. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

G.L.S. - Blood Will Flow · DEMO
Catchy, but very stock, Thrash. A little originality, in both music & lyrics, would go a long way. Also, the vox would probably disappoint some, as they're a mid-to-high-pitched wail. - 7.25 - <Ray> **MC10**

G//Z/R - Plastic Planet · TVT
Of course you know that this is the band of Geezer Butler, former bassist of... Fuck that - if you don't know this, then fuck off completely. Anyway, this is way heavier than I thought it would be. Not as good, though. The idea to have the guy from FEAR FACTORY sing probably looked good on paper, but he's just not up to 100% most of the time. Maybe 75%. I like that Geezer wanted to be heavy, and this is a pretty good effort, but he apparently forgot that his bass work should be louder. Hell, I'm just glad to see that The Geeze is still alive and fuckin' shit up, although this does sort of sound like FEAR FACTORY, but with a different drummer. Upped a little out of respect for The Geeze. - 8 - <Ray> **MC9**

GAIAS PENDULUM - Vitte · Hateworks
Gothic-tinged Death/Doom with a Greek feel. I am reminded of old SEPTIC FLESH and even ROTTING CHRIST, although GAIAS is nowhere near that league yet. These clean vocals would’ve been a mistake in English, let alone Spanish. Traces of more modern Black Metal are scattered throughout for injections of intensity, as they are often well needed. Overall, this isn’t bad, but I doubt I’ll be reaching for it anytime soon. - 8 - <Jack>

GALACTIC COWBOYS - The Horse That Bud Bought · Metal Blade
MTV-friendly happy little guitar-driven Alternative Rock. - 3.25 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

GALACTIC COWBOYS - At the End of the Day · Metal Blade
I think there’s some kind of harmonica solo in the first song. That earns the GALACTIC DOUGHBOYS a one way trip to the backyard Tron pile. - 3 - <Ray> **MC12**

GALACTIC COWBOYS - Let it Go · Metal Blade
This is barely tolerable, as I've never been into radio-friendly music. Some of the songs are just plain weird. The only interesting thing about this mess is the sampling that goes on between some tracks. Several of the samples are actually pretty funny, but otherwise this is just plain dull. And, with seventeen tracks, it was a chore to get through. Readers of Metal Curse will find nothing of interest here. - 3 - <Painkiller>

GALLERY OF MITES - Bugs on the Bluefish · Meteor City
Considering that this is a ten-man band (with members of MONSTER MAGNET and some other bands I've never heard of), with five fucking guitarists, I thought it would be safe to assume that the music would be guitar-driven. But it's not. Not really. What we instead is a nice bass tone (thanks to two or three bassists) and maybe enough going on guitar-wise for me to believe that they needed two guitarists. I suppose that this isn't bad for what it is, that being '70s Rock focused through post-1990s Seattle, or some kinda bullshit like that. Of course, I don't like the vocals, but I really wouldn't. - 6.5 - <Ray>

GAMMA RAY - Insanity and Genius · Futurist / Noise
This sounds like the bastard child of early HELLOWEEN and a Thrash version of QUEENSRYCHE. It's extremely intense and very well played. Impressive. - 9 - <Ray> **MC8**

GAMMA RAY - Somewhere Out in Space · F.A.D.
For all (like me) who love traditional Metal, this is supreme. Beyond awesome playing, super memorable songs, & nuclear intensity. My only complaint is that the lyrics are too geeky sci-fi, with all the space stuff, but they’re not good guys, so I can overlook it pretty easily. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC11**

GAMMERA - Smoke and Mirrors · Audio Demolition
GAMMERA play Stoner Metal in the vein of KYUSS. Although they play this style competently, there is nothing about GAMMERA's music that is original. This is just KYUSS-worship. I hate to be harsh on a band that obviously has talent, but these guys need to put some of their own ideas into their music. - 4.75 - <Painkiller>

GANDALF - The Cradle · DEMO
The amazing production is perhaps the least of this demo's attributes. The songwriting is superb, the playing flawless, and the vocals are a raspy yell, perhaps not unlike that of AT THE GATES. I will say that a little polishing of the lyrics could be done, but not much. - 9 - <Ray> **MC10**

GANDALF - Snakebite · DEMO
Even more so than their last demo, The Cradle, this is exceptionally well produced, written and played. But my favorite part is still the uniquely raspy vocals. It’s difficult these days to have such an individual vocal style, but Jari makes it sound easy. Their technical, super-intense Death / Thrash is hard to forget, even after a single listen. I’m sure we’ll be hearing quite a lot more from this band. - 9.5 - **MC11**

GANDALF - Deadly Fairytales · Wicked World
Nothing too outstanding or flamboyantly queer here. A lot of the song structures are very plain and dare I say, Poppy. It’s like prep-Death. Certain riffs, and I‘m dead serious, sound like, if they were a little less distorted and thick, something you’d hear in a WARRANT or CINDERELLA ballad. Of course I’m sure that will boost sales from all the closet homosexuals scattered about the Metal scene who like that kind of shit. Just check out the beginning and chorus of "Fade Away." I’m just waiting to hear Jon Bon Jovi start whining at any second. Speaking of vocals, they aren’t too solid. On some songs they’re more aggressive than others, but listen to the style on "End Of Time." Is that Dave Mustaine after a night of sucking dick for heroin or what? The vocals at the beginning of "The Price Of My Deeds" sound like he’s sprawled out on a bed fondling his testicles while watching gay porn. Okay, so I was wrong, this is flamboyantly queer. - 2.25 - <Jack> **MC12**

GANDALF - Rock Hell · Earache / Wicked World
Standard Rock arrangements, occasionally channeled through AC/DC, with a "heavier" production, and sort of gruff Thrash-style vocals. Can they be serious?!? Anyone who might like this musically would have to be turned off by these vocals and probably also the production. This is just a bad fucking idea. I'm sure that the guys in the band think this is really "original," or whatever, but stapling your dick to your forehead would be "original," too, and almost as insane. - 2 - <Ray>

GARBAGE DISPOSAL - Reunion Carbide · Obscene
Extremely guttural Death/Grind comparable to INGROWING or INHUME, but nowhere near as memorable or unique. The Obscene bar is so high that I just can't let this average effort slide. This CD contains the Union Carbide LP, the Absolute Combustion... EP, and the Mind Detonator demo (which sounds like total shit). This isn't terrible, just a little dull. Best song by far: "Separated Fear." - 7.5 - <Jack>

GARDEN OF SHADOWS - Heart of the Corona · DEMO
When they play slowly or mid-paced, their Death / Doom is crushingly depressive. When they speed up, thus losing some of the Doom, their brutality comes to the fore. The production & vox are more or less flawless, but the drastic tempo changes can be a little distracting, and there are a few other slightly rough edges in the music. But not many, and not with the riffs or drumming so much as with the "embellishments." - 9 - <Ray> **MC11**

GARDEN OF SHADOWS - Heart of the Corona EP · X-Rated
Even though this only has 5 tracks (well, plus an intro), it’s about 40 minutes long! G. of S. can really crank up the intensity when they feel like it, and belt out some intense Death Metal. But they just as often go for a slower, more majestic, melodic, sorrowful feeling. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

GARDEN OF SHADOWS - Oracle Moon · Wicked World / Earache
Attention-grabbing Atmospheric Death Metal swathed in mystery. The music blends brutality with melody giving the songs added depth and complexity. Layered keyboards and swelling guitar rhythms create dark atmospheres that envelop the listener within their intricacies. A very involved effort, indeed not an album fully appreciated with a casual ear. Repeated spins expose deeper nuances in the music. Original, interesting, challenging, and memorable from beginning to end. Well done! - 9 - <Painkiller>

GARDENIAN - Two Feet Stand · Listenable
The idea to play Death Metal with a bit of a groove to it is not new, however GARDENIAN are one of the few that can do it well enough to make it sound cool. The fact that there is a dash of Black Metal also helps them to stand alone. Their Rock influence also comes to the front a few times, but once again, they somehow manage to break with the norm, and make it kick ass. Maybe it’s got something to do with the lyrics (check out the pro-suicide cut, "Downfall"). But really it’s that for once a band has figured out how to take the best elements from their influences and get rid of the rest. The result: near perfection. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

GARDENIAN - Soulburner · Nuclear Blast
This starts off as your typical Swedish Metal album, complete with all the structures from AT THE GATES' Slaughter of the Soul, just slightly rearranged, and then blossoms into something gayer. The song "Powertool" features repugnant Poppy female vocals like those you'd hear on a Contemporary Christian radio station. Then with "Deserted" a complete closet exodus is achieved with the interjection of Power-Glam vocals that may induce the loss of bladder control through laughter. I can understand and respect a band's desire to add a dimension of passion to their music, but the clean male vocals on this LP sound like the guy from BOSTON with an even bigger dick up his ass. Trust me, the only thing this CD would accomplish in your collection is the absorption of dust mites. Even they don't deserve such torture. - 5.75 - <Jack>

GARDENIAN - Sindustries · Nuclear Blast
More new-wave Swedish Metal. The press release wants me to say that this album has elevated GARDENIAN into the "realms of the death metal-elite," but that's hardly true for a number of reasons. While this is Metal of some form, I'd be hard pressed to call it "Death Metal." Check out ENTOMBED's Left Hand Path, GRAVE's Into the Grave, UNLEASHED's Where No Life Dwells, or DISMSMBER's Like an Ever Flowing Stream for only a few examples of Swedish Death Metal. Also check them out for flawless examples of what should be meant by the word "elite." This album isn't bad, and certainly I like it more than Jack did their last one (see above), but the infusion of Rock elements like wimpy vocals and some song structures and elements, only serve to dilute the rest. - 7 - <Ray>

GARDENS OF GEHENNA - Mortem Saluta · Shiver
I was thoroughly enjoying this Doomy, majestic Death, when all of a sudden the disc hit track 8; a Techno "remix" of the 1st song, "Nebelmond." It’s not terrible, but it does bring this down from what would have been close to perfect. However, the remaining 7 cuts are more than 30 minutes long, so even without the "remix," this is still a full-length release, so I guess I shouldn’t complain (as if that ever stops me). - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

GARROTE - Mortuary · DEMO
This band's high energy Deathy Thrash is fine, but sometimes the singer sounds a little strained. Not that it's bad, but this just didn't do much for me either way. - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

GATES OF ISHTAR - The Dawn of Flames · Death / Invasion
I guess that every band on Invasion must kick ass. Someone at Metal Blade deserves a big raise for this licensing deal. Anyway, G. OF I. are fast "new school" melodic Black Metal, with the requisite Thrash & Death touches. Very well written and executed. The guitar solos sometimes even approaching a MERCYFUL FATE sort of feeling. And I think that’s a compliment of the highest order. I have no complaints about this very impressive release, but I’d kill someone for a lyric sheet. - 9 - <Ray> **MC11**

GATES OF RAGE - Jester · DEMO
These guys are compelled to do some little spoken word bit in every song. It really gets old after a while. Kinda like Rob Zombie saying "Yeah" at least 24 times a minute. Not only that, but G. OF R. do a little BEASTIE BOYS style rap on side 2 of this musical disaster. I have to admit that some of the lyrics are okay and some of the songs have a heavy/groove guitar sound. But other than that, it’s worthless. - 3 - <ANG> **MC11**

GATEWAY - Gateway to Insanity · DEMO
Hailing from Holland, GATEWAY plays that Speed/ Thrash mixture that is popular with a lot of European bands. It may not be overly spectacular or the most original, but it is excellent. The band has their music down pat, great production, and a kick-ass singer. It's a great combination. - 9 - <Gerry> **MC7**

THE GATHERING - Always · Pavement / Foundation 2000
The keyboards and other "extra" instruments make this sound pretty strange, but also very interesting. Possibly not totally successful in their experimental fusion of different styles into what I suppose will also be called Doom, THE GATHERING have certainly attempted to do more on this album than almost any other band I can quickly think of. And it nearly always works for them. I expect their next release to be utterly flawless. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

THE GATHERING - Mandylion · Century Media
The new, female, vocalist adds a unique dimension to the Gothic Doom stylings of this very talented band. No growly Death vocals to be found, but plenty of meaty riffs, and so on. Nicely done, and a worthy addition to the collection of any fan of Doomy, heavy, and melodic stuff. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

THE GATHERING - Superheat - A Live Album · Century Media
What can really be said about live albums? Are you a fan of the band already? If so, then you'll want to (and already have) check out this live disc. I'm sure it won't make any converts to the band's somewhat dark, very mellow sound. That said, the sound quality and production, which are always a major concern for live recordings, are absolutely stunning here. Apparently the "real" version of this CD will contain a CD-ROM video track that the promo copies do not have. That's a real shame, since I'd think watching this band live would be a lot better than just hearing them. - 8.25 - <Ray>

THE GATHERING - If_Then_Else · Century Media
With each album, THE GATHERING's sound is more and more mainstreamed. That doesn't have to be bad, but by this point in the game I don't think they could get much mellower. - 7.5 - <Ray>

THE GATHERING - Sleepy Buildings · Century Media
Would this fucking band please just go the hell away? Who gives a shit about THE GATHERING in 2005? Even when they started out as a heavy Doom band with Death growl vocals they weren’t all that. Now that they have fucking Kylie Minogue singing for them and all their intensity has been scrapped for Pop accessibility, they’ve really worn out their welcome. This particular piece of wasted plastic is a wannabe "Unplugged" spanning their entire worthless catalog, plus one new song. Hooray! As if the original versions by Metal’s AQUA weren’t mellow enough. If you like THE GATHERING, I think you’re gay. - 1 - <Jack>

GEASA - Angels Cry · Season of Mist
Atmospheric and melancholy Black Metal. The addition of clean male vocals is somewhat unique and adds to the sorrowful feeling. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

GEEST? - Lurgi Puree & Borrelhaver · DEMOs
Between the two of these demos, there are 68 total Noise compositions, which take up all of a 90 minute tape. It might be more than you can handle, but sometimes this is exactly what is needed. Very weird and hard to listen to, but I kinda like this sort of stuff. - 4.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

GEHENNA - Adimiron Black · Moonfog
Featuring a vocalist who is mixed so low that he sounds like an angry neighbor next door, GEHENNA otherwise doesn’t fall into most of the cliches that plague many Black Metal releases nowadays. No "spooky" keyboard intros, no thin guitars. Instead, they have a fat drum sound and the ability to change tempo during their songs. Lyrically, I don’t know where they are coming from, due to the aforementioned mixing problem, but they have a dead, naked girl on the cover, so it can’t be too nice. Okay, maybe there’s one "spooky" keyboard intro, but it’s not too bad. Certainly not ground-breaking, but better than a lot of others I’ve heard. - 8 - <Brainhammer/Doktor Necrosis> **MC12**

GEHENNA - Murder · Moonfog
Hell! This sounds a whole lot like old DISMEMBER! This is definitely not the GEHENNA that I remember from about 5 years ago! Back then, they still had Sarcana on keyboards and the band played EMPEROR-ish atmospheric Black Metal. After Malice (Third Spell), Sarcana left the band and things have gotten uglier and uglier since then - and I don't mean because they lost a certified babe. After she left, their music became more brutal, more violent and just downright more fucking evil. Their previous album, Admirion Black, showed the band heading more in the Death Metal direction, taking influence from old SLAYER and EXODUS (Bonded by Blood-era) and that album was about as majestic and beautiful as a mugging. If Admirion Black was a mugging, then Murder is aptly named. This album is a continuation of that evolution. Murder is almost pure Death Fucking Metal like the Swedes played it back in the early '90s. The guitars are down-tuned, distorted like fuck and the whole album is about as pretty as getting your skull smashed in with a sledgehammer while being ass-raped by a chainsaw. I wonder, if they keep going like they have been, will the next album be classified as a dismemberment? - 9.5 - <Ychoril>

GEMINI FIVE - Babylon Rockets · Dead Line
Come on, folks! This is called Metal Curse. Metal. It’s not Glam Curse. Don’t send us this shit, we’re mortal enemies. For fans of BACKYARD BABIES, MOTLEY CRUE, and HANOI ROCKS? Don’t they know such people have either overdosed on cum or died of AIDS by now? It’s 2006. Mars, bitches! - 1 - <Jack>

GENERAL SURGERY - Necrology · Relapse
This is available in regular and special edition packaging, which is limited to only 2000. Either way, you get 7 songs that out-CARCASS old CARCASS, as was the intent. Even though this is only about 16 minutes long, it is worth every cent, especially for those who have the 7" and dreamed of this being released on disc (with extra tracks no less). - 9 - <Ray> **MC8**

GENERAL SURGERY / THE COUNTY MEDICAL EXAMINERS - split CD · Razorback
GENERAL SURGERY without Matti Karki is like... well, GENERAL SURGERY without Matti Karki! Not bad, certainly brutal, but definitely a little boring. The other band is a self-confessed CARCASS rip-off, and holy fuck do they mean it. Not just an influence or an inspiration, these are literally note-for-note CARCASS riffs rearranged. Hey, whatever gets you through the night is fine by me, but ya'll ain't seein' a dime o' my cheddah, nigga. Woo wooo! - 6.5 - <Jack>

GENERATION - Brutal Reality · Metal Blade
Hard, pro-god Industrial. It's got a good sound, heavy guitars and all that. But it's kinda boring and honestly didn't do much for me. When there are vocals, I don't like them either. - 6.25 - <Ray> **MC9**

GENETIC DEFENSE - Transmission of the Subsonic · DEMO
A clue for all bands: If you don't put your address (your physical address, not just email) anywhere on the cassette or J-card, you're beat-offs who don't deserve a record deal. What if some label heard your demo and wanted to sign you, only to discover that there's no god damn address anywhere? They'd throw the whole thing in the trash and sign INVERTED BITCH FISTER instead. I only have this band's address because I saved the envelope in which the tape arrived, and normally that would be the first thing to go. I'll get on with the review now: The music is Industrial tinged Thrash, which isn't half bad. It's the vox and lyrics I don't like. There's a mild distortion on the vox and stupid phrasing of the inanely rhymed lyrics. Maybe they knew what they were doing when they left off their address. - 7 - <Ray> **MC10**

GENOCIDE KOMMANDO - Black Metal Supremacy · Moribund
The Moribund Cult strikes again, this time with raw, hateful Black Fucking Metal provided by GENOCIDE KOMMANDO. This band could probably be classified as NSBM simply from the pictures of a burning synagogue and a pile of dead bodies (a photo I know was taken at a Nazi death camp), though they claim to support only our Lord and Master SATAN (!!!) and the complete genocide of the human species. Musically, GENOCIDE KOMMANDO sounds a lot like older DARKTHRONE, probably circa the Under a Funeral Moon or Transylvanian Hunger albums, but with much better production. One thing that is consistent with releases by the Moribund Cult is the fact that the sound is generally superior to other releases in their category - be it Death Metal, Black Metal or Grind. GENOCIDE KOMMANDO surprised me by being less chaotic and more melodic than I expected them to be. I expected something rawer and harder on the ears, though this by no means is a wimpy album. Black Metal Supremacy doesn't break any new ground, but at the same time what is done on this album is done well. The playing is tight, the music is memorable and it gives me a bad case of whiplash every time I throw it in my CD player. I don't normally mention cover art in a review but I really like the cover photo for this disc. It's a picture of riot police shooting rubber bullets into an unseen crowd. Each of the policemen in this photo sports a pentagram insignia on his uniform, something I thought lent a dose of cold, hard, realism to a genre that is usually much more fantasy oriented. - 9 - <Ychoril>

GHASTLY SECRET - Unearthed · DEMO
The interesting lyrics are occasionally sung in such a way that you would think that no attention was paid to the music at all when they were recorded. Other than that, I'm sort of fond of these songs. I suppose you'd call them Death, thanks to the vocals, but I'm not sure if that's exactly right for the music. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

GHASTLY SECRET - Nachtmusik · DEMO
This band's odd combination of Death, Thrash, and "Classic" Metal is even more refined on this demo. And for the most part, more memorable, too - not to mention heavier. In addition to such new masterpieces as "With this Ring." and the title track, the listener is treated to a pair of cuts from their last demo, including my favorite G.S. song, "We Are Those Men." This is a distinct improvement, and I already liked them. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

GHOLES - Songe · DEMO
Excellent melodic Death Metal with brutal female vocals. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

GHOLGOTH - Somnus Mortis Imago · Ordealis
Although this is painfully average, run-of-the-mill Black Metal that I've heard a thousand times over, I have to admit it is inspirational. From the moment it started, I was inspired to hit the stop button. - 2.5 - <Jack>

GHOST STORY - Seeds of Destruction · DEMO
GHOST STORY hails from Atlanta. The band is comprised of Chris Baker (lead guitar), Chris Cauble (bass), Devin Denuyl (drums) and Rob Thompson (vocals/ guitar). This demo is a little dated, it was released in 1989, and their new one should be ready about now. Anyway this band is extremely talented. Chris Cauble’s bass style reminds me of Steve Harris (IRON MAIDEN), that is to say: he fucking rules! No shit, Seeds of Destruction is excellent. Musically this band sounds like IRON MAIDEN (skill), SLAYER (intensity), NUCLEAR ASSAULT (vocals, style) and early METALLICA (vocals, conviction). This combination of sounds is very interesting. The first song, the title track, has a cool bass solo, but I think my favorite is the last track, "The Enemy Within." This four song demo is a must have. Like I said, the new demo will be out any second now, so ask about it too! - 9.25 - <Ray>
{I really had high hopes for this band, but they could just never get a break. After just one more demo (which if I recall correctly, was delayed for a very long time before its release, and didn’t quite live up to the extremely high standard of this one anyway), GHOST STORY broke up. Chris Cauble then joined his brother (who was then in the band CATACOMB - at a time when I knew of at least 3 active bands worldwide using that name), and formed a new band called MONSTER. They released one demo, and disappeared. Hopefully I’ve not heard the last of the Cauble brothers.} **MC3**

GHOST STORY - The Image and the Reality · DEMO
The vocals here are a little smoother than on their first demo, but still this is hardly a problem. In fact, I really can't find any problems at all with this 5 song Thrash masterpiece. Clear, distinct production. Good guitar and bass sound. Good, meaty, screamed vox. Lots of double bass. And, of course, Chris Cauble's Steve Harris-like bass ability. The fact that the songs are well written and memorable makes this clearly stand out. However, the last song, "I Won't Change," simply doesn't measure up to the extremely high standard of the rest. This is the final demo from GHOST STORY, but bassist Chris and his brother Andy (ex-CATACOMB) have formed a new band... - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC7**

GHOSTORM - The End of All Songs · DEMO
The Thrashy style of Death played by GHOSTORM is second to none. The songwriting and musicianship displayed in these songs is usually staggering. Plus they have the added bonus of being pretty damn heavy, and memorable. Even the vocals are cool. For what more could one ask? I dunno. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

GHOSTORM - Frozen in Fire · Black Mark
GHOSTORM have worked very, very hard on making this debut as unbelievable as it is. They of course write emotional, heavy, and memorable songs, which are also pretty technical. And they play them flawlessly. Their singer is raw enough to be brutal, but he can still be understood, which is a difficult balance to achieve, and he injects more emotion into his growls than nearly anyone. They traveled from their native Lithuania to Sweden to record at the legendary Unisound, and that was the extra effort which really put them over the top. The production is maybe the best I've ever heard from Unisound. Although quite a bit of excellent Metal has come out recently, Frozen in Fire is without a doubt a contender for the best album of the year. If their next one is somehow better than this, I guess I'll have to change to an 11 point scale. Essential. - 10 - <Ray> **MC9**

GHOUL - We Came for the Dead · Razorback
Do not be fooled. While the packaging, song titles, lyrics, and image of this band may lead you to believe this is some kind of fuck-around joke band, it is not, I repeat, it is not!! Think EXHUMED's Gore Metal album meets CARCASS' Tools of the Trade era, with subtle influences taken from the '80s Thrash movement. Influences that become less and less subtle with every repeated spin of their masterful cover of MEGADETH's "Skull Beneath the Skin." I can't describe the shockingly awesome surprise it was to discover the extreme grinding, thrashing heaviness that was hidden within my unsuspecting GHOUL disc. I love GHOUL! GHOUL rocks my fucking world! - 9.5 - <Jack>

GIDEON SMITH & THE DIXIE DAMNED - Gideon Smith & the Dixie Damned EP · Game Two
Contact info: King Ghidra. Thanks list: MOTÖRHEAD. You can't go wrong with those two! I don't really know how to describe this band's low-down Rock n' Roll, other than to say that I guess I can hear traces of KISS and DANZIG, and who-knows-what-all-else. And that I like 'em. It's very well played, energetic and hard to forget. - 8.75 - <Ray>

GIGANDHI - Chaaval · Euphonious
They do a MADONNA cover ("Justify My Love"), and in the CD booklet, there’s a fellow angrily biting into an apple... Yet the guitars are super distorted, and fairly heavy sounding. And just to really confuse me, the vocals range from a "tough guy" distortion scream, to Alternative smooth, by way of James Hetfield. Some parts are good, and some terrible, as you might have guessed. Depending on what sort of mood you’re in, this could easily range from awesome to terrible. But I must give them a lot of credit for the courage to release an album this diverse. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC12**

GIRLSCHOOL - Girlschool · Progressive / Communique
It takes them almost a full minute to get things in gear, but once they do everything is fine. Now you have to understand that this is the classical Metal style. Remember when they collaborated with MOTÖRHEAD? Well, you might not, but they did. Anyway, this is great, but I understand that it's probably not for everyone. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC8**

GIRLSCHOOL - Live · Communiquè
I have vowed to never say anything negative about GIRLSCHOOL since their team-up with MOTÖRHEAD about 1000 years ago, but that really was the high point of their career. Fortunately, this live disc has a version of long time fave "Emergency," so everything is okay. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

GIRNU GIESMES - Kerai · Dangus
A weird Industrial/Electronic construction. A lot of different stuff is tried here (synth orchestras, odd layered rhythms, unusual instrumentation, and so on.), but not much of it holds any interest for me. Perhaps it's too experimental for my tastes. - 6 - <Ray> **MC10**

GLASSEATER - Everything is Beautiful when You Don't Look Down · Victory
God damn do I miss their old singer! His screams were classic, and his clean singing was just right. This new guy is plain and lame, and the band's music seems to be headed in a far too Poppy direction for me to digest. I think I'll go listen to Seven Years Bad Luck and cry. - 6.75 - <Jack>

GLOO GIRLS - Attention Shoppers EP · Celluloid
Maybe it's the samples from The Wizard of Oz in the first song (it's about witches). Maybe it's how loud the bass is mixed. Maybe it's just cause this is cool. I like this a lot. I wonder if the Sage in this band is the same one who's in YOUTH GONE MAD. Anyway, this is a kinda Punk-inspired two woman band. Lots of energy, and the songs are short and catchy. It's only about 20 minutes long, and I dug every second. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

GLORIA MORTI - Ephemeral Life Span · demo
I really miss doing a zine [Jack used to publish Portrait of Defiance zine - Ed.]. Sure, it was a lot of hard work, it was expensive, a lot of dealing with fucking morons and having to wade through landfills of unsigned garbage, but every once in a while you'd come across that demo-CD that stood out from the sea of poopy. You'd get that virgin peak at a gem not yet stained by the masses' grubby fingers. Listening to GLORIA MORTI, I am reliving that old feeling. This self-financed disc contains two tracks of flawlessly executed melodic Black Metal in the vein of CRADLE OF FILTH and HECATE ENTHRONED. The playing, the production, the vocals, it's all top notch. Okay, so they draw a pretty hefty influence from the aforementioned bands, but I can sacrifice a little originality when it sounds this professional and feels this good. If these guys just keep at it, and do add their own unique spin on the style they've apparently already mastered, their future looks pretty god damn bright. Reserve your bandwagon seat now. - 9.75 - <Jack>
gloria_morti@hotmail.com

GLORIA MORTI - Phoenix Caged in Flesh · Demo
Not even sure if I should be reviewing this, as I believe this is a labels-only type of release not available to the public. Oh well, maybe if you contact the band and ask nicely they will hook it up. This is just a 2-song promo of what the band is currently working on after completing a one-album deal with Japan’s Worldchaos Productions. That album being their debut, Lifestream Corrosion, which kicked many an ass in 2004. For those unfamiliar with the Finnish sextet, you’re missing out on a great band. They started out as somewhat of a CRADLE OF FILTH clone, but have since transformed into an ominously brutal Death Metal wrecking crew with traces of Black Metal and avant-garde elements. For those that are familiar with the aforementioned LP, these two cuts are thankfully more of the same. They are simply not to be missed, and I would be shocked and appalled if they did not land the good record deal they are searching for with this small sample. Sweet promo package by the way. - 9.5 - <Jack>
www.gloriamorti.com

GLORY - Wintergreen · Black Mark
God damn it, I wish that Black Mark had sent me NECROPHOBIC to review! Ahh, such is life that I am stuck with this cut-rate New Wave Power Metal instead. If I hear one more band that sounds like motherfucking STYX with a kickass drummer, I'm going to shatter the CD into 666 pieces and jam them into my ears until I stab my brain to death. Fuck it, I'm going to try it now! Ejecting the CD... Breaking it... Jamming shards into left ear... Didn't work! GLORY is too pussified to even get past my mighty earwax. - 1 - <Ray>

GNOSIS - Tribal Metal · DEMO (CD)
By "Tribal Metal," they apparently mean somewhat Thrashy stuff, with environmentally conscious lyrics, and the occasional use of flutes... I was really okay with this until the wind instruments showed up. It just makes it all sound way too happy. The good news is that they wisely keep their use very limited. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC12**

GNOSTIC - Evoking the Demon · Ordealis
Hey, it's the 212th band to use the Gladiator "...unleash hell" sample this month. Their choice of ultra-shitty Black Metal with valueless production is equally as original, as you might have guessed. This comes with bonus video material, as if there were a living organism in the entire galaxy that gave a shit. - 1.75 - <Jack>

GNOSTIC - Hatewar 666 · Infernus Rex
Some of the worst Black Metal I’ve ever heard. It’s no big surprise coming from a former member of THORNSPAWN, quite possibly the most boring Black Metal band of all time. I think these guys recorded this album on an answering machine. I love the irony. The band’s liner notes read: "We live in the necro realm and do not fucking care about critical ass-licking faggots that are too ‘broad-minded’ to enjoy trench war chaos... And to the gay media, we shit on your souls as we laugh at your death!" Oh, and by the way, here’s our new album, could you review it for us, hope you dig it, thanks. - 1 - <Jack>

GOATLORD - Goatlord · J.L. America/ Turbo
Uhh, occasionally I think these guys might do something cool, but I'm always wrong. Great drum sound, though. Not quite horrid, but bad enough. I know exactly what would save them: Even one original idea or lyric, and the skill to pull it off. Wake me when it's over. And lose the fucking wind effect. - 5 - <Ray> **MC7**

GOATTHROWER - Cult of the Germanic Horde · Ax/ction Black
This is a difficult band to describe. By nature, they are Black Metal, but they also refuse to conform to any trend, either old or new, and have boldly forged a unique sludgy sound all their own. Deadly diabolism of a different kind. - 8 - <Ray>

GOATWAR - GoatWAR · DEMO (CD)
Raw and barbaric simplistic Black Metal that will probably tear off your head on first listen, or at least induce insanity. - 8 - <Ray> **MC12**

GOBLINGOAT - Demo N · DEMO
With lyrics like "I want a big car / I want a big bitch," and such a horrible wannabe "Alternative" singer, I think you can guess at the rest, and I can’t waste the space on this crap. - 2 - <Ray> **MC11**

GOD - The Anatomy of Addiction · Big Cat
Kevin Martin and GOD have a big plan: they are going to possess you, then drive you insane. After a deathfuck with an ethereal spirit, you will be reborn as an addicted slave to GOD. That's pretty much what's happened to me anyway. They do this via thudding percussive throbs, walls of saxophone blurts and squawks, recitation of secret spells, and many more important components that a slave like me will never understand. - 9.5 - <J.J.> **MC9**

GOD AND TEXAS - Comrade General Chromalox 7" · Lovehammer
The repetition of the lyrics is extremely annoying. Other than that, this is better than I was expecting. Kinda Thrashy, dirty sounding guitars with yelled vocals, and a lot of energy. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

GOD DETHRONED - The Grand Grimoire · Metal Blade
This band’s Black Death is so intense, I was tempted to call it Black Grind. The production is supreme, and that helps a lot, but for all it’s intensity, this isn’t really all that memorable. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC11**

GOD DETHRONED - Bloody Blasphemy · Metal Blade
I should probably give these goat fuckers a ten just for the opening sample, but I have resisted. This improves upon the Black Death style of their last album, The Grand Grimoire, by making it more easily remembered, and that was just what they needed to do. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC12**

GOD DETHRONED - Ravenous · Metal Blade
With each album GOD DETHRONED has improved and refined their sound, making it more powerful and their songs more memorable. That cannot truthfully be said about a lot of bands. The Black Death assault found on Ravenous is not the most brutal or the fastest you've ever heard, but it's probably some of the best. The MACABRE END cover went by more or less unnoticed, but the DEATH cover ("Evil Dead") just about ripped off my head, and was the perfect way to end this monsterpiece. - 9.75 - <Ray>

GOD DETHRONED - Ravenous · Metal Blade
The Danish hellions have returned, pissed as ever, with a throat-slashing mother-fucker of an incredible album! Ravenous may just well be GOD DETHRONED's crowning achievement possibly securing them a spot in the Death Metal Hall of Fame. This new batch of songs seems to have been created utilizing the finest elements of the band's back catalog. The song-writing abilities of Henri and Jens are as brilliant as ever, and Henri's seething vocals are concrete proof of his convictions. The guitars are screaming-mad, and session-drummer Tony Lareno (ex-ANGLECORPSE) plays with an intensity that takes the music to the next level. From the moment opener "Swallow the Spikes" kicks in a relentless onslaught ensues. The momentum continues to build until track six,"The Iconoclast Deathride," which, unfortunately, breaks the continuity of the music. I'm not sure why they placed that song at the mid-point of the album, but it definitely seems out-of-place. No need to worry though because they redeem themselves on the very next track, "The Crown for the Morbid." An excellent cover of "Evil Dead" appropriately closes the proceedings. This album is undeniable proof that these guys are at the top of their game. No doubt about it - Ravenous has all the subtlety of a Viking berserker at the peak of rage! - 9.5 - <Painkiller>

GOD DETHRONED - Into the Lungs of Hell · Metal Blade
As expected, this is nearly flawless Death Metal, and another excellent release from GOD DETHRONED. - 9.25 - <Ray>

GOD FORBID - Determination · Century Media
GOD FORBID is an extreme music lover's dream come true, but a critic's worst nightmare! There is not a category, tag, or witty group of paragraphs that could even begin to do these guys justice. Just look at how fast Century Media recognized this gold mine. One listen to their last record, Reject the Sickness on 9Volt Records, and you knew you were dealing with a force to be reckoned with for years to come. These guys can do it all. The soul of the band would arguably be Hardcore-based. Driving aggressive rhythms and start-stop riffing that would put MESHUGGAH to shame (check "Broken Promise"), but they also command the speed and precision of the tightest Metal band you'd care to mention. And then there's the MAIDENesque melodies that intoxicate, like those found on the powerful instrumental "God's Last Gift." The vocals? Pure agony. A scratchy throat of inherent pain that wraps up the total package that is GOD FORBID. Flawless! - 10 - <Jack>

GOD FORBID - IV: Constitution of Treason · Century Media
I don’t really comprehend why these guys had to fuck with their formula. Reject the Sickness blew me away when I heard it, and Determination was among the most solid albums of 2001. And while Gone Forever had its moments, I started to notice the band going in a different direction, a direction leading to this album, which is not good at all. Musically the group is still on. They still play rifftastic Euro-laced Thrashcore, and Baron Davis’ screams are still all-pro. It’s these awful Radio Rock clean vocals. Used in moderation earlier on, but now they rear their ugly head on every single fucking track! An example of how bad its gotten: earlier this fall I was browsing at a record store where, unbeknownst to me, this album was playing. I honestly thought I was listening to fucking SEVENDUST! I’ll always cherish GOD FORBID’s first two proper albums, but when I can’t tell them from felchmasters like SEVENDUST, it’s time to give up the ghost. Perhaps this album’s title is a subtle "fuck you"? - 6.75 - <Jack>

GOD KILLED THE PRESIDENT - Pretty: Dead · DEMO
These guys sound like somebody, but I can't quite determine who it is. Maybe the CULT, or something like that. Yucky. - 6.25 - <Ray> **MC9**

GODDESS OF DESIRE - Symbol of Triumph · Metal Blade
Nicely played old-style European Thrash. And they have some hot chicks in the band. Or at least in the photos with them. That’s always a plus, but G.O.D. doesn’t really need the help. Not that I’m complaining, mind you. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

GODFALL - The Sound of Robogroove EP · Abstract Emotions
While the first track is more traditional Death Metal (although it is vocal-less), most of the rest are, as you might expect, more groovy. However, since they have a human drummer, there is little evidence of the "robo" part, aside from a rare weird sound or two. The songs are pretty well constructed and played, and I must give them a nod for trying something a little different. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC10**

GODFLESH - Slavestate · Relativity/ Earache
I'm sure many of you are familiar with GODFLESH because they're on Earache, purveyors of obscenely good Death, but GODFLESH are atypical of the Earache label, they fall into a more Industrial pigeonhole than a Metal one. This, their follow-up to the widely popular and acclaimed Streetcleaner LP of last year, is a bit of an enigma. Roughly half the album follows in the vein of Streetcleaner and the remainder sees GODFLESH trying a pseudo-Industrial Dance style. Now this could be interpreted in many ways: A) GODFLESH are trying something different, but intend to remain Industrial Grind. B) They are changing to a MINISTRY type sound, or C) They were being leaned on to rush another album out to capitalize on the success of their last LP. I, for one, hope they continue in the tradition of their last album. Old GODFLESH was cool because it sounded like long instrumentals. Slavestate has a jerky stop-start quality which makes it difficult to enjoy. Although I admire the band for trying something different, I think there are plenty of bands like MINISTRY and KMFDM which do this better & I suggest GODFLESH continue doing what they do best- Grind. - 5 - <Clint S> **MC6**

GODFLESH - Pure · Relativity/Earache
After Slavestate, GODFLESH had lost a few notches on my respect level, however, this album puts them on the road to redemption. A distinctive Industrial groove, and at 79 minutes, a good value. But upon careful scrutiny, flaws become clear. The majority of the songs are redundant- a bit too free form. Not enough structure, sort of like Industrial Jazz. This Industrial/ Grind/ Dance stuff is still trying to find its wings, so this should be considered ground breaking stuff- sort of. After Streetcleaner I just expected more. - 6 - <Clint S> **MC7**

GODFLESH - Songs of Love and Hate · Earache
A few years ago, these guys sort of lost their way, but as of their Merciless EP and the follow-up LP, Selfless, they were back on target. I'm very pleased to say that this new album is at least as crushing as those I have mentioned, and is still fairly experimental in some ways. These are interesting compositions, and are helped by one of the best productions I've heard for awhile, especially the bass tone. It's good to hear GODFLESH delivering the bads again. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

GODFLESH - Us and Them · Earache
What happened? The last thing I remember, GODFLESH were back to crushing heaviness. Apparently not anymore. The first track is just terrible dance music with distorted vocals and guitars. It gets somewhat better after that, but the horribly overdriven vocals remain, and they never come close to their former glory. They should be embarrassed of this bullshit. - 4.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

GODGORY - Resurrection · Nuclear Blast
Atmospheric and very dynamic sorrow filled Metal that can be crushing Death Doom, or acoustic melancholy depression. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

GODGORY - Way Beyond · Nuclear Blast
This is very well executed Gothic Death / Doom, with the slightest hints of more modern European Metal sounds. The production is very polished and slick, but in just the right ways, somehow adding to the overall atmosphere. - 9 - <Ray>

GODHEAD - Malevolent Apostasy 7" · A.R.T.
Upbeat Death with some interesting riffs and drumming. Sometimes they seem to get a little off track, but for the most part, this is pretty good. - 8 - <Ray> **MC9**

GODHEAD - 2000 Years of Human Error · Posthuman / Priority
How am I supposed to review this Glam Industrial stuff? Apparently MARILYN MANSON has something to do with this band, but what I could stand to sit through seems pretty wimpy, even for him. I didn't make it very far, though... - 1 - <Ray>

GODKILLER - The End of the World · Wounded Love
Pagan Black Metal with elements of other Metal styles. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

GODS TOWER - The Eerie · Metal Agen
More well played crushing Death / Doom. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

GODS TOWER - The Turns · Metal Agen
Heavy, technical Death / Thrash / Doom. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

GODSEND - As the Shadows Fall · Holy
Well, that was a surprise. This sounds sorta like new CATHEDRAL, in that it has a strong Rock base and builds upon that basically with Doom elements. This makes for a unique listen, as this is more Doomy than CATHEDRAL, and not as Rocky as CEMETARY, but at least as heavy as either of them. Pretty weird and pretty cool, too. - 9 - <Ray> **MC8**

GODSEND - In the Electric Mist · Holy
The very heavy Doom riffs will grind your bones to dust, and the smooth vocals will bring you back from beyond. They experiment with their sound, but generally avoid adding any Groove, as some bands have. Unfortunately, what takes its place, instead of more crushing riffs, are Rock songs. It's a really odd mixture of styles that I just don't understand. Parts of this are great, but just not all of it, and the bad parts can be really disappointing. - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

GODSEND - In the Electric Mist · Holy
Parts of this, like the first song, "Down Upon You," are the heaviest Doom I've heard in a long time that has clean vocals. Then there are some songs that are not in any way heavy; more straight Hard Rock, perhaps not unlike early DEEP PURPLE. In the Electric Mist is a really varied release, that obviously has its influences in very early Metal, but the band brings their own identity to the style. I can't say that I like every song on here, but most of them are amazing, and the few remaining are all at least acceptable. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

GODSPEED - Ride · Atlantic
Musically, this is great: Fairly heavy guitar sound; interesting, Thrashy songs; and excellent production. It's even somewhat experimental. Vocally it is a bit weak, but occasionally the vocals seem to take a more Hardcore edge than their occasional awkward Cock Rock style. A different singer, or at least a consistently more aggressive vocal style, could really help. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

GODSTAR - Sleeper · Taang!
I guess everyone in the band sings, and that's bad. Alison is my first pick. Everyone else should stick to playing their instruments. Anyway, this is wimpy, poppy crap, but if Alison always sang, it might be acceptable. Too bad her vocals only appear on 51 seconds of this nearly 40 minute album. - 4 - <Ray> **MC8**

GOLD FÜR EISEN - Kein Morgen EP · Tepa Tape
I'm not really sure what to make of this. The album starts off with a little girl singing in German, then suddenly it's blasting full-speed ahead with Death Metal riffing. The vocals on opener "Sie War 10" vary between a dry, monotonous spoken-word female voice and a deathly growl. The next track steers more towards a raw, primitive Black Metal style which is actually very good. Excellent grim shrieking on this one too. The production is much cleaner than that of a typical Black Metal song though. In the next two tracks, we're hearing MOTÖRHEAD-influenced rhythms accompanied by gruff vocals. There is still an underlying Black Metal element present on these tracks as well. In fact, that presence continues through the next two songs. Unfortunately, the Black Metal shriek from track 2 never returns. Instead the songs are rendered powerless by various vocal-styles that are just plain annoying. Kein Morgen does not end on a high note either. "Kinder Haben Angst" closes things out with thirty-three seconds of a little girl singing again. Too weird for me. - 5.25 - <Painkiller>

GOLDEN DAWN - Masquerade · Napalm
This is the second album by Austria’s GOLDEN DAWN (named after the occultist organization founded by The Great Beast Crowley) and they have changed quite a bit in the decade or so between albums. Their debut album, The Art of Dreaming, was originally released on Dark Matter records and was sort of like EMPEROR or DIMMU BORGIR in that it was very symphonic yet still firmly rooted in the conventions of Norse Black Metal. Masquerade, on the other hand, seems to fall in more with progressive or epic Traditional Metal a-la HAMMERFALL or maybe the newer ARCTURUS material. The music is more upbeat and though there are some "Black Metal" moments on this disc, the style is not very much akin to the debut. The use of clean vocals and melodic guitar and keyboard arrangements really push this away from the genre they supposedly still fall under. The marketing on the front of this CD described GOLDEN DAWN as Gothic Black Metal. Folks, Gothic Black Metal is dark, melancholic and Satanic. GOLDEN DAWN is none of these to any real degree. This is not to say that the music sucks. The music is actually very well played and well orchestrated. The thing is, I was expecting something more along the lines of the "dark, melancholic and Satanic" style. If you really love the more progressive style of ARCTURUS and don’t mind a bit of that HAMMERFALL style Traditional Metal, you are sure to love GOLDEN DAWN. For fans of the darker side of Gothy Black Metal, you’re going to be disappointed by the lack of misery and suicidal depression. This takes a few listens to fully appreciate but ultimately, this album is really a cut above the rest in terms of talent and production. - 9 - <Ychoril>

GOLDENPYRE - Apocryphal · DEMO
Heavy, catchy "melodic" Death Metal, with more than a little Black Metal influence. The mix here really helps these guys, with its highlighted low end. And the production is awesome, too, giving them a very clear sound, that is somehow also fairly raw. The impressive songwriting and playing push this close to perfection. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

GOLGOTHA - Forsaken: Live · DEMO
Taped when opening for CHEMLAB and SCREW, you might be lead to think that this is a lot more electronic than it really is. I think that everything but the drums was played live, and their sound is very low, sort of ominous. The vocals are (probably accidentally) sometimes like those of modern Black Metal bands. It's a pretty weird sound, but I honestly like it quite a bit. I hear that a studio demo is coming soon. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

GOLGOTHA - Elemental Changes · Repulse
At last, their follow-up to 1995’s Melancholy album has been released. This is melodic Gothic Metal, sometimes reminding me of newer ROTTING CHRIST, and sometimes venturing into Doomier territory. Plus, there’s a pretty awesome cover of "Love Gun." Can’t beat that. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

GOLIATH - The Gate · TMC
I am Jesus Christ! Hear my holy lies. I fool the poor and weak, to the life they seek. I sell blessings for $50 more. I love to see them cry, and watch them slowly die. I lead every war, trust in me for a better score. I don't care at all if they stand or fall. I plot a way for the destruction of the Earth. To plague, starvation, and diseases I gave birth. I let them all die because my will is law. The bullets of war are all mine! I am Jesus Christ. Can't you see the light? I preach the holy way. Join me or be my prey. I am God - I kill people just for pleasure. - 1 - <Jack>

GOMORRAH - Reflections of Inanimate Matter · Black Mark
Fast Death. Not Grind. Not that kind of fast. Interesting lyrics and great vocals. The songwriting and musicianship are unbelievable. I can even hear the bassist, and he's pretty damn good! Very impressive release! I can hardly wait to hear more! - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

GONKULATOR - God Slaughter · DEMO
Black Noise. It had to happen. Imagine ABRUPTUM, IMMORTAL, and MERZBOW all teaming up on a project. Slabls of evil pain and blasts of drums, amid tortured vocals, and insane guitar explosions. You'll puke up blood. - 9 - <Ray> **MC9**

GONKULATOR - Satan’s Burial Ground · Fudgeworthy
All hail the Black Noise! GONKULATOR are one of, if not the, most extreme Black Metal bands on the planet. They combine Noise, Grind, evil, perversion, & just all out sickness into their unique form of the Black Noise. Excellent use of samples, too. You seriously might not be able to handle the intensity of their onslaught, so I recommend this to only the most die hard evil bastards out there. - 9 - <Ray> **MC11**

GONKULATOR / UNDINISM - Split · Fudgeworthy
GONK puke up more of their patented deadly evil slabs of Black Noise and it's as sick as ever. Meanwhile, on side two, UNDINISM blast their way through a few of their lethal porno-Grind compositions. - 8 - <Ray> **MC10**

GOOSEFLESH - Welcome to Suffer Age · DEMO
A little Death Metal, a little Thrash and some start-stop riffs & occasionally terrible vocals. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

GOREAPHOBIA - Omen of Masochism 7" · Relapse
Two tracks of intense Death. The rawness of the production adds to the energy, and heaviness of the music, but I'd be interested to hear what these guys could do with a better sound. - 8 - <Ray> **MC8**

GOREFEST - Horrors in a Retarded Mind · DEMO
This demo is graced by excellent production and recording as well as the ultra heavy vocals of Jan-Chris. There are only a few people in the world who could claim to have a more brutal voice. The music is very bassy and reminds me of a slower NAPALM DEATH (as of ND's Harmony Corruption LP). Slow Death at its best. Heavy, brutal and occasionally even fast, but no blast parts. There is a strange absence of double bass, I wonder if... Favorite track: "Foetal Carnage". Awesome. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC5**

GOREFEST - Mindloss · Pavement / Foundation 2000
Finally released domestically by my pals at Pavement. Not as supreme as their most recent album, False (see below), but fairly close. If you don't own this already, now's the time. Favorite quote (from "Loss of Flesh"): "I was born alive / Isn't that punishment enough?" - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC8**

GOREFEST - False · Relapse / Nuclear Blast
Holy shit! Heavier and more brutal (and more memorable!) than their impressive debut, Mindloss. Plus cool lyrics and Jan-Chris' truly stunning vocals. Again produced by Death god Colin Richardson, who manages to make this one of the best sounding Death albums of all time. Really, this has no faults. No brutality is sacrificed in making the songs memorable. I don't really know how this could be any better. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC8** [No idea why I didn’t give this the 10 it deserves... -Ed.]

GOREFEST - The Endhoven Insanity · Relapse / Nuclear Blast
Here we have eight live tracks from the Dynamo Festival, which is held in Holland. The sound quality is excellent, and after reading the above two reviews, I shouldn't have to say anything else. Unless you hate live albums, buy this. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

GOREFEST - Erase · Relapse / Nuclear Blast
After their amazing False album, I knew I would have to be disappointed by whatever came next. But this is a surprise anyway. It's not exactly horrible, but they have abandoned most of their heaviness and speed. I'm too shaken up to continue with this. Maybe they will come to their senses and write a good album next time. - 6.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

GOREFEST - Soul Survivor · Nuclear Blast
I remember years ago when I first got into Death Metal; I was young, my mind was open and bands like GOREFEST put a sense of fear and respect in my blood. Hearing this new LP fills me with plain disgust. GOREFEST's first 2 albums were excellent, their third wasn't totally solid, but it was definitely more than tolerable. This new shit sounds like a Zakk Wylde side project. Who are these lavender boys hoping to impress with this weak shit? Do they think that by spaying and neutering themselves that an MTV executive will go, "Oh, you guys rule now that you're gay, here's some cash!" I'm stumped. - 1 - <Jack> **MC10**

GOREGOD - The Human Abstract · DEMO
Industrial Death from Russia. Very heavy, and occasionally aided by an uncredited keyboardist. The vocals are raw enough that I wouldn't swear that James is singing in English, although all the song titles are English. Perhaps too brutal, in places, to be really memorable, but actually pretty interesting. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

GOREGOD - Apocalypse Now · Mortal Dreams
While not as brutal as their The Human Abstract demo, this album concentrates on being more experimental in their approach to Industrial Metal, and sometimes pulls it off really well. But not all the time. It’s too weird for it’s own good. I’m sad to report that since this album was recorded (in ‘96), GOREGOD main man, and my friend, James Magda was killed, so this is his final contribution to the musical world. - 8 - <Ray> **MC11**

GORGE - Among Composing Fields · DEMO
The shifting of the style from a sludgy dirge to Grind is supported by a super thick guitar tone and loud bass. The vocals are in the Death Metal style, but this doesn't feel exactly like Death, although the heaviness is there. It's almost as if the band had a Hardcore/Crust/Sludge background, but took those sort of influences into the graveyard. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

GORGE - Pathless and Awkward... 7" · self released
Side A has two sludgy Death Metal cuts. Side B has MISFITS and SICK OF IT ALL covers. The (lack of) production nearly ruins things. GORGE are cool guys, and I understand about lack of cash, and that 7"s often have poor sound, but they seriously need to record in a studio to get a sound that will help their music, rather than hold it back. - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

GORGOROTH - Pentagram · Wild Rags / Embassy
Primitive goat worship. Bad production - of course! Fairly interesting riffs and drums. Is there bass? The vocals are as tortured as any I've heard. Would a better production really make this band, or utterly destroy them? Too many questions. But a fast, Black Metal attack, to be sure. The biggest downfall is that this is all one big track on the CD! All the songs are programmed as one, so you cannot go to the beginning of any song but the first. I hope that this is not the next trend for "true" Black Metal to blindly follow! - 8 - <Ray> **MC9**

GORGOROTH - Destroyer · Nuclear Blast
If I had to describe this LP in one word, it would be "noisy." The guitars are super dirty, and there is quite a bit of feedback sometimes, and the whole recording sounds sort of loose. But that’s the weird part; it’s also very clear. Dirty, yes, but you can hear everything okay... It’s a unique production, that is just as interesting as the fast Black Metal it supports. And, to their credit, GORGOROTH play with tremendous energy and intensity, and they are smart enough to know the importance of solid riffs, and memorable songs. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

GORGOROTH - Incipit Satan · Nuclear Blast
The suicide of former drummer Grim seems to have affected this band quite a bit. This is not the GORGOROTH that I remember. If one word can describe the new sound, it is "heavy." On most, if not all, of their previous releases, GORGOROTH had the rather thin, traditionally noisy guitar sound that exemplified the post-DARKTHRONE era of raw, underproduced Black Fucking Metal. Incipit Satan sees the guitars getting thicker and deeper, adding that infamous "Sunlight" sound to the mix as well. If "heavy" describes the sound, then "dark" describes the music. Things have slowed down, gotten heavy, Industrial/Dark Ambient elements have started creeping in and the songs are much, much more mature than ever before. This album has more experimentation on it than all of the previous GORGOROTH albums combined. Shit, there is even the equivalent of a Goth Rock song on here! Granted, there are still faster segments on this CD but nowhere near what albums such as Antichrist or Destroyer were. - 9.25 - <Ychoril>

GORGOROTH - Incipit Satan · Nuclear Blast
This is kind of boring, but at least it's a huge improvement over the swirling wall of incoherent anti-riff noise that was their last album. Still, it's not much to get excited about. I think all the common Black Metal tactics have been exhausted past their full potential. This has some cool riffs, but for the most part it really drags on. Heard better, heard worse. - 7.5 - <Jack>

GORGUTS - Obscura · Olympic / Slipdisc
Okay, this is heavy, and these guys are technical masters. But they put their considerable skill to use mostly in showing off, and generally keep things way too complicated to be memorable at all. And then there are the weird parts. I guess they listened to PAN-THY-MONIUM once and thought they’d give it a shot, without first understanding that songs should be memorable, not impossible. I’m sure this will be given a lot of credit for being "experimental," but I think it’s more like a bunch of divergent ideas thrown together with the idea of sounding "clever," and that won’t work on me. - 6 - <Ray> **MC12**

GORGUTS - From Wisdom to Hate · Olympic
To be honest with you, I didn't like their last release, Obscura, at all. It was way too technical and just plain weird! From Wisdom to Hate isn't a whole lot different than the last release. This is still extremely complex and technical Death Metal. Yeah, these guys are highly talented musicians, but if they can't write memorable songs, who cares! I've given this disc at least 7 or 8 spins, and nothing about any of the 8 tracks presented here has any effect on me whatsoever. I can't tell one song from the other. Where are the riffs? Where are the melodies? Where are the blasts? There is no cohesiveness to these songs. It's just too chaotic. Oh, how I miss the days of Considered Dead. - 6.25 - <Painkiller>

GORSLEEPS - Far Away From Anywhere Else · Metal Agen
Somewhere in between traditional Metal and Thrash GORSLEEPS stands. Perhaps they could be called Progressive Thrash. However one might describe them, this album is graced with an excellent production to go with the complex and flawlessly executed songs. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC11**

GORY BLISTER - Cognitive Sinergy · DEMO
Often times technical Death bands are not very memorable, or even all that brutal, and instead concentrate on playing complex stuff. Well, GORY BLISTER are technically proficient players, and yet they have no problem making these tracks intensely brutal, too. Admittedly, they’re not always super-catchy, but let’s see you play one of ‘em. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

GOTHIC - Prelude to Killing · DEMO (CD)
For a three piece there’s a shit load of stuff going on here... just this side of chaos. It’s brutal and interesting enough that I don’t mind when they slightly ease off the intensity for the last song. I even love the vocal stuttering and shear lunacy. Homicidal speed! Chemically unbalanced in the good way. Five tracks total, three songs. Somebody tell me why these guys aren’t signed? - 9.5 - <Bob> **MC12**

GOTHIC - Criminal Art Motivations · Apparition
I've always liked these guys. They'll use anything and everything at their disposal to create intense audio insanity, from blast Death Grind to hardcore techno beats. I'll put this in my noise section right between PHANTOMAS and the MELVINS. If you don't get it, you probably won't. Sheer manic lunacy. - 8.5 - <Bob>

GOTHIC SEX - Laments · Repulse
As you’d guess, this is slow and dreamy. Surprisingly enough, though, the male vox are sometimes growled Death style, which is a lot better than when he tries to "really sing." Too bad that’s the norm. The female vox are naturally of the operatic sort. Oh yeah, there’s some okay multimedia stuff on here, too. Not bad, but after SKEPTICISM has crushed your soul, what other Doom can compare? - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC12**

GOTHICA - Night Thoughts · Cold Meat
Dark, haunting synths with subdued female and male vocals drifting around. This is more minimal than say, DEAD CAN DANCE, and sometimes does seem a little too stripped down. Other times it sounds just right, however. There were a few places wherein the vocals slightly overpowered the music, throwing off the delicate balance, but only ever for a few seconds. - 8.25 - <Ray>

GOTHICA - The Cliff of Suicide · Cold Meat Industry
Is this BLACK TAPE FOR A BLUE GIRL with BJORK singing? Listening to this too long would have me over said cliff in a heartbeat. - 5 - <Jack>

GRAAL - Sigullum Naturae · DEMO
Formerly known as BRAINSTORM, GRAAL have changed their style along with their name. Where BRAINSTORM played intensely brutal Death / Black Metal, GRAAL take a more unusual approach to things on this 10 song tape, and every track really does have its own very unique identity, from Black Metal to Folk. They change styles within the songs, or even play in different styles at once. It’s interesting to listen to, coming across almost like PAN-THY-MONIUM or even a bit like the works of John Zorn at times, yet retaining more of a sense of structure than Zorn ever worried about. It’s weird, but I like it. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

GRADE - Triumph & Tragedy EP · Victory
What happens when you take Hardcore's aggression and intensity, and combine that with Punk Rock, or even Pop Punk? You get GRADE. Although you'd think that it would be easy to shift from Hardcore to a more mellow brand of Punk, but apparently it's not, as the transitions are more abrupt than seamlessly flowing form one to another. But, Hell, maybe that's how they like it. Really it's kind of weird, and it seems to me that the catchier, Poppier, parts are kind of ruined by the Hardcore bits overshadowing them and generally pushing them around. And likewise are the Hardcore moments weakened by the sometimes really wimpy nature of the rest of the music. And they do a really insane (in that it's very true the original) cover of VAN HALEN's "Panama." While certainly not all bad, this is one strange disc. - 6.5 - <Ray>

GRADE - Under the Radar · Victory
In the smaller dose found on the above-reviewed EP, GRADE's odd hybrid sound was more tolerable than I've found it to be here. After only a few songs, all I could think of was that I'd rather be listening to NOFX, or ALL OUT WAR, or really pretty much anything else. - 4 - <Ray>

GRADE - Headfirst Straight to Hell · Victory
GRADE is a band that is hard to describe in words. Most Metalheads would probably write this off as Emo and be done with it, as if music without emotion were a good thing. Speaking as someone who loves Metal, I love GRADE as well. The music is dynamically melodic, the vocalist has a gritty despondent clean voice to go along with his painfully raw, bleeding-throat scream, and the lyrics flow from the heart, telling tales of personal "tragedy and triumph." For longtime fans of this band who might've been concerned that these guys would've gone total Pop on this release (they "cleaned up" one of the tracks from their last LP for potential rotation on MTV), fear not! While this isn't the same GRADE that wrote And Such is Progress, it is the band that knows how to tug at the heartstrings just right. The violins on the opening track are fucking magic!! Had to acknowledge that, sorry. - 9.75 - <Jack>

GRAND BELIAL'S KEY - Judeobeast Assassination · Drakkar / Moribund
This is the second full-length album for GBK and what a difference this is! I slagged the debut album (Mocking The Philanthropist - it was released on Woodnymph and is now probably long out of print) for several reasons, one of which was the blatant "ancient" BATHORY worship in the music and another the fact that most of the "cult" songs that GBK did were written with Bestial Luciferian (aka Lord Kaiaphas ex-ANCIENT / THOKK) in mind when it came to the vocals. This is 1000 times better than the debut. GRAND BELIAL'S KEY has now morphed into a Black / Death Metal band with an emphasis on heavy, Doomier guitar passages and more original sounding material. In fact, this sounds so different than the debut that I swear that this is an entirely different band. A few minor gripes I have are concerning the cover art and some of the lyrics. Both suffer from a bit of childishness that, at least concerning the cover art, could have been avoided. If you haven't seen the cover for this CD, it's basically a scanned picture stolen from some kid's illustrated bible where the picture of our favorite dead Jew has been artfully defaced with corpse-paint by someone using Microsoft Paint. Yes, you can see the jaggies. Also, concerning the lyrics, if there were any more references to semen and apostolic homosexuality on this CD, I'd have to call them PROFANATICA instead. It's a pretty funny read (and probably true...) but the "Jesus was a fag" humor wears thin after a couple songs. I know these guys can do better because musically, this is some seriously kick ass shit. - 8.5 - <Ychoril>

GRAND BELIAL’S KEY - Kosherat · Drakkar Productions
Easily the most polished effort yet from this cult act. Their Blackened Thrash assault has never sounded so crisp and professional, and the end result is more vicious because of it. Not that they’ve ever had the worst production, or been a bad band, but this release just seems more focused, and perhaps even more hateful. In several listens, my interest did begin to wane from time to time towards the middle of the record, but more times than not I was brought back to consciousness by a twisted riff. To me, this is the best GRAND BELIAL’S KEY has ever sounded, and Kosherat is actually quite heavy in a Soulside Journey sort of way. - 8.75 - <Jack>

GRAND MAGUS - Grand Magus · TMC / Rise Above
When I read "Swedish Doom," naturally I immediately think of the mighty CANDLEMASS. And that's always bad news, since few bands could measure up to such a standard, and GRAND MAGUS doesn't really come close. Rather than being very Doomy at all, what we have here is something a lot more akin to early DEEP PURPLE, sans Mr. Lord's insane-o keyboard histrionics. But thanks to Fred (DISMEMBER) Estby's super-thick production, this is almost always plenty low and massive-sounding, for whatever that's worth. - 7 - <Ray>

GRAVE - Into the Grave · Century Media
I have to admit that after a few jillion listens, I still can't find a single fault with this album. The cover is so cool, you will simply have to see it. Musically, GRAVE is fast Death Metal. And heavy, don't forget that. Ola's vox are super raw and bestial, yet you can make out the lyrics if you really apply yourself. Each one of the eleven tracks is a masterpiece. I wish that the lyrics would have been included, but that is a minor point at best. It really doesn't get a lot better than this. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC6** [I must have been insane to not give this the 10 that it obviously deserves! -Ed.]

GRAVE - You'll Never See... · Century Media
This is GRAVE's second album, and for a band that did not like the Sunlight sound, they seem to be stuck with it. But this album is great. The opening riff of the title track is so fucking cool, I almost blew a wad when I heard it. Although absent one bass player, Jorgen Sandstrom (vocals and guitar) manages the bass tracks just fine. This is the second best album to come out of Sweden this year, following closely behind UNLEASHED's Shadows in the Deep. Brutal album, buy it. - 9.75 - <Tom> **MC7**

GRAVE - ...And Here I Die...Satisfied · Century Media
Two new tracks, which utterly kill everything. A demo track from '86, which is very raw and also very cool. A track from the In the Eyes of Death compilation. And two more tracks from their debut, Into the Grave (which you should already fucking own), but in remixed form. You have heard of GRAVE, right? Get this or get dead. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

GRAVE - Hating Life · Century Media
Well, I realize that the GRAVE line up has been cut down to 2 now, but it's my opinion that they could have at least changed their name for this album, because it's simply not the same GRAVE that recorded Into the Grave five years ago. I'm starting to notice hints of Power Metal, which is never good. However, this is probably the most worthwhile GRAVE LP since their debut. Mixed feelings on this one. See for yourself. - 7 - <Jack> **MC10**

GRAVE - Extremely Rotten Live · Century Media
Having been rather disappointed when I last saw GRAVE live (on their most recent tour), I wasn’t sure what to expect from this live disc. However, when I saw that there was some old material (even a never-before-released demo track!) on here, I felt a little better. Not that they played any old shit when I saw them... So I sat down and gave it a listen. If the guys in GRAVE are reading this, I have a question for you: What the fuck? The music is passable (not as heavy as it should be from fucking GRAVE!), but the vocals are sissified. They sound like MACHINE HEAD or other twats like them. Fly me over for your next album and I’ll show you what Death Metal vox sound like. I’ll do it for free. So don’t tell me that you couldn’t get anyone else to sing. Turn the distortion back to 10, and get a new growler. Or change the band’s name. - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

GRAVE - Back from the Grave · Century Media
After the disappointing return of my old friends, UNLEASHED, I was worried about hearing anything new from this other legendary Swedish Death Metal band, GRAVE, especially considering that the band's last studio recording, 1996's Hating Life, was far from their finest work. But I had little to worry about, really. This new album isn't exactly Into the Grave 2, but it is pretty damn good, and sounds as if it could have come out right after Soulless. This is well done, old-style Death Metal, and while not as perfected as that of label-mates BLOODBATH (but what could be?), it's nice to hear. I remember the first time I saw GRAVE live. It was the band's first US tour, in support of Into the Grave, and I went with some friends of mine to the legendary Medusa's, in Chicago. Sadly that venue is long gone now, replaced with an apartment building, I think. And I thought that GRAVE was long gone, too. I am very happy to report that I was wrong about that.
It's my understanding that the real version of this is a 2-CD set, with the second disc crammed full of early demos, which would be a worthy purchase all by itself. - 9 - <Ray>

GRAVE - Fiendish Regression · Century Media
According to the propaganda that accompanied this CD, the retail version will have two bonus tracks not on our lowly review copy. That sucks for me, because I love GRAVE and need to hear as much as possible. The usual Metal Curse policy is that we don’t review anything that has less than 100% of the audio -really how could that even be possible?! Consider for a moment what it would be like to have a copy of ENTOMBED’s Left Hand Path that did not contain the title track and "Drowned." Or DISMEMBER’s Like an Ever Flowing Stream without "Soon to Be Dead" and "Dismembered." Or whatever your favorite CD is without two of its best tracks. Since this is GRAVE, and I saw them on their very first US tour, and Into the Grave is one of the greatest albums ever recorded, I’ll give this a few more words. If you liked the band’s last album, Back from the Grave, you’ll like this, too.
To all record labels worldwide: stop the practice sending out incomplete review copies!
The rating has been lowered to reflect the missing songs, and if they’re as good as the other tracks, this would be close to perfection. - 8 - <Ray>

GRAVE DIGGER - Excalibur · Nuclear Blast
I've heard it all now. Here we have a Traditional Metal concept album about the lengend of King Arthur. It's a bit heavier than you might expect, and the vocals are more like a gruff Udo Dirkschnieder than Rob Halford (which is certainly more common these days), but then again this band has been around since at least 1984, so they have had time to get these things figured out. The lyrics get a bit hokey at times, and I had to keep reminding myself that they were trapped within the "concept" of the album. But I'll give them a little break since everything else is so expertly done. - 8 - <Ray>

GRAVEWORM - Underneath the Crescent Moon EP · Serenades
Fast, intense and majestic Black Metal. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

GRAVEWORM - Scourge of Mailce · Serenades
I'd heard some rather negative things about this band, but after listening to this album, I assure you that they were unfounded. While hardly the most original band I've ever heard, GRAVEWORM does a fine job of blasting out Symphonic "Gothic" Black Metal, along the lines of CRADLE OF FILTH or DIMMU BORGIR, I suppose. But I've got to say that this seems a bit more influenced by both Doom and Death Metal, which is good news as far as I'm concerned. And their cover of IRON MAIDEN's "Fear of the Dark" is certainly interesting, and at times awesome - just like the rest of this album. - 9.25 - <Ray>

GRAVEYARD RODEO - Sowing Discord in the Haunts of Man · Century Media
The oldest of these songs dates back to 1981. No shit. It still sounds pretty cool, though. Sort of Hardcore in the way that M.O.D. are (or were). Actually, sometimes, I'm reminded a little of dead horse, too. But just a little. Really, this is pretty cool, but occasionally the lyrics are kinda silly, while other times, they're great. I'm looking forward to see what they do next. - 8.5 - <Ray> **MC8**

GRAVITY - Doomsday · DEMO
Very fast Thrash, with appropriate vocals. This is fairly interesting, and I certainly like the speed. Excellent recording and sound, and the songs are all well written, and played. Pretty cool. - 8 - <Ray> **MC8**

THE GREAT DECEIVER - Terra Incognito · Peaceville
Since most people are stupid, I’ll go ahead and mention that this has been Tomas Lindberg’s main project since 2000, but you really should know that already. You should also know that musically this is a bit different than most of the stuff he usually does, an eclectic, diverse, and splendidly unique blend of Metal, Punk, and Hardcore with an Industrial vibe. It’s actually quite primitive, but that’s hard to notice because it’s done with such class. For those that are familiar with this band, and their full length debut masterpiece A Venom Well Designed, this is every bit as good with the exception of the Gothed-out fagginess of "Lake of Sulphur" (dear Satan, I pray they do not go in this direction). Other than just that one bad track, the rest of the album is hard-hitting, extremely memorable, and brimming with angst and depression. I’ve actually seen comparisons to FEAR FACTORY written (please see first five words of review), but that’s so far off it almost demands that critic’s public beheading. I tell you assuredly, this is the best thing Lindberg has done since AT THE GATES. Now go fucking buy it! - 9.5 - <Jack>

THE GREAT KAT - Digital Beethoven... · Bureau of Electronic Publishing
KAT is back, delivering more of her infamous Metal renditions of Classical compositions, including a great version of "Ride of the Valkyries," which is the highlight of the music-only portion of this disc. KAT’s biggest weakness has always been in her ability to write original songs, and that remains true here, but she does seem to be improving, and her guitar and violin playing are as impressive as ever, if not more so. But the most interesting part of this is the amount of multimedia stuff on here. There’s way too much for me to do it all justice, so you’ll just have to check it out for yourself. Trust me, it’s cool. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC11**

THE GREAT KAT - Guitar Goddess EP · TPR
Clocking in at just over 8 minutes, this "Cyberspeed masterpiece" is almost over before it starts. Of the four tracks on here, we are treated to two more KAT versions of classics, and she Thrashes her way through them both. Her two originals are heavier than I expected, and her vocals have become almost demonic screeches. No one has ever denied KAT’s playing ability, and if these two short songs are any indication she has improved noticeably as a songwriter. Truly KAT is one bad bitch as well, but check out the review of her "Dominatrix" video and interview, both elsewhere in this issue, for more on that. - 9 - <Ray> **MC11**

THE GREAT KAT - Bloody Vivaldi EP · TPR
When, oh when, is Metal’s number one maniacal mistress gonna get tired of reading reviews like the one I’m about to give her? In 1988, I purchased her debut album (actually on vinyl), Worship Me or Die. Suffice to say, my friends and I had many a gut busting laugh at her "lyrics" (and I use the term loosely), as we couldn’t believe that an adult mind had penned this crap. Musically, the woman is really as good as she thinks she is. No doubt about it, Kat can play. Fast forward 11 years and the same is still true. Spellbinding musicianship that is completely overshadowed by lyrics a special ed kindergartner would be proud to call her own. While I’m on the subject of cheese, let’s talk about her image. Lingerie and blood spattered flesh doth not a musician make. At least not one I, or anyone with an IQ over 12, could take seriously. Don’t get me wrong, if what she wants is to be a novelty act, then I suppose I’d be the first in line to receive one of her "lusty beatings" or personal guitar lesson. But, since I get the impression she wants us to regard her as seriously as she does, I would recommend the "dominatrix" shtick gets lost in favor of some quality songs. All this in mind, I still jerked off to her naughty promo poster that came with this CD. - 6 - <Brainhammer> **MC12**

GREAT SORROW - I Hope · Metal Agen
As their name would imply, this Russian band can be quite sorrowful and emotion-filled when they choose, but they can also belt out some faster Thrash whenever they feel like it. BLACK SABBATH also comes to mind at times. Admittedly there are a couple vocal / lyrical goofs on here, but then again their English is a lot better than my Russian, so who am I to complain? And the playing and songwriting on this is just stunning. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

GREAT WHYTE LYIN SNAKE - Peace... Are You Going to Give it to Us? 7" · Highly Collectable
I'm not sure what to make of this 7". It has only two songs, both covers, sort of. They are "Eve of Destruction" & "U Can't Touch This." Both are sort of Metal and the latter is actually pretty good. "Eve..." is interesting, but it's just not in the same league. These two songs are just too different to get an understanding for this band, but I think I might like 'em, kinda. I hope they get the chance to record some more material soon. - 7 - <Ray> **MC6**

GREAT WHYTE LYIN' SNAKE - Great Whyte Christmas · DEMO
Well, here we have another example of how behind I am with this issue. Anyway, with all the references to "Heavy Metal" on this tape, I guess that must be how these guys describe themselves. Umm, well they have a different definition than anyone I know, but okay. I'd say this was a lot more Punk influenced than anything else. They even cover a MISFITS song, but change the lyrics and title. Whatever - maybe it's supposed to be an inside joke. I do like the "Peanuts" samples, though, but other than that, and a second here and there, it didn't do much for me. - 7.75 - <Ray> **MC8**

GREEN CARNATION - Light of Day, Day of Darkness · The End
Tchort (CARPATHIAN FOREST / ex-EMPEROR) has revived his old band GREEN CARNATION, but this incarnation of the band has an entirely new musical vision. Light of Day, Day of Darkness is one song which is sixty minutes in length. This is a surrealistic journey through a soundscape pulsing with dreamy atmosphere and etherial beauty. Attempting to categorize this music would be an exercise in futility because it transcends all genres. From the hallucinatory PINK FLOYD-ish vibe to the melodic, ANATHEMA-like swirling guitar rhythms, this song is the aural equivalent of being carried by the wind across the night sky under a full moon. Lofty, cleanly-sung vocals are used from beginning to end, but the music still possesses an underlying aggressive edge. This edge is brought forth with sinister, plodding drums that instill a sense of impending doom. A full range of emotions is explored as the song flows from shining moments of joy to the dark depths of sorrow. Those of you brave enough to try something new will be rewarded with an entrancing experience. - 9.5 - <Painkiller>

GREEN CARNATION - Light of Day, Day of Darkness · The End
Talk about doing things on an epic scale... This album is actually composed of one song, the title track. It lasts just a hair over an hour long, sounds great and never gets boring. I had to admit that I thought that sitting through an hour's worth of music without stopping sounded daunting but Light of Day, Day of Darkness is just one of those songs that seems to hold your attention. I think it has a lot to do with the musical diversity. This one song hits about a half-dozen different genres, from Atmospheric Doom to Death Metal to Dark Ambient and back again. You never really feel that this song is "overly long" while you're listening to it. I guess the closest thing you can compare this experience to is watching a movie. You buy your ticket, get your popcorn and kick back for 90 minutes while you watch it. One shot, all the way through. Light of Day, Day of Darkness is just like that minus the ticket price. The popcorn part is optional. You just kick back and let it run its course. This is primarily Atmospheric Doom in terms of genre so fans of MY DYING BRIDE or Gothic Doom will enjoy this more than people who like CANNIBAL CORPSE or MORBID ANGEL. - 9 - <Ychoril>

GREEN CARNATION - A Blessing in Disguise · Season of Mist
More minds contaminated by RUSH. It comes as no surprise that the same chromosomes that make a man want to hear "Tom Sawyer" contain the same genes that persuade him to have a little boy in a suit for his band’s album cover. This band features Tchort (ex-EMPEROR) who apparently must want to get laid pretty bad to put out this sappy, radio-friendly Pop-Prog. Unfortunately no one told him that music like this is enjoyed exclusively by dorky males. I don’t like this, I don’t like RUSH, I don’t like little boys, I’m cool. - 1 - <Jack>

GRENOUER - Border of Misty Times · Metal Agen
Supremely well played and produced Death Metal, with some Thrash influences, from Russia. The great vocals and memorable songs make this close to perfection. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC11**

GREY AREA - Fanbelt Algebra · Victory
A very nice surprise here! An accurate mixture of speedy Punk and more Emo-based writing. Imagine a serious version of DIESEL BOY with a little sadness ala FACE TO FACE. I must admit I'm hooked on this album's tearjerkers. "Silence" is a very moving song about losing a friend to suicide. "Tennessee" and "Cannonball" also get the neck hairs tingling. Then there are the faster Pop-Punk tunes like "Reminder" that balance it all out. It's good to see Victory picking up on the more despressing 'Core bands (the new GRADE is excellent also). This is a well-written, passionate album that should appease any fan of this stuff. - 9.5 - <Jack>

GREY SKIES FALLEN - The Fate of Angels · Nightfall / Terrorizer
Man, this really gets off to a good start - kinda Thrashy Death, with a bit of Black Metalish speed picking, and somehow a Doomy feeling. And then their singer, who had been doing a nice raspy job so far, starts trying to "really sing." Fuck. There is one rule to always follow when it comes to attempting "clean" vocals: if it sounds queer, don't do it. If you simply must have this style of singing, at least find someone who can pull it off and not sound goofy. I guess GSF want to let their "Progressive Metal" tendencies be known, but when this guy tries to "sing," it just sounds like some alternative lifestyle tendencies are leaping out the closet instead, and that has totally ruined what would have otherwise been a pretty good album. - 7 - <Ray>

GRIEF - Come to Grief · Century Media
Sludge Metal is go! This is over an hour of slowed down, tuned down, throat grinding, extreme depression. And it's awesome in it's power and emotion. - 9 - <Ray> **MC9**

GRIEF / 13 - Split 7" · Game Two
This is a repressing of the long out-of-print classic Doom / Sludge team up. You probably know what to expect from GRIEF, but just in case, they deliver a single track of oppressingly heavy soul-crushing depression. On the other side of the disc, the all girl group known as 13, manage two cuts of somewhat faster (but certainly not fast) extremity, more akin to slow-paced Death Metal than to Doom, really. Cheers to the barbarians at Game Two for rereleasing this monster! - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC12**

GRIEF OF EMERALD - Nightspawn · Listenable
Okay - here’s the deal. GRIEF OF EMERALD are fast, well recorded, dark, powerful, and very average. There’s certainly nothing wrong with this release, but I can say that I’ve heard it all before. Dark minor chord rhythms over spooky keyboards is not exactly ground breaking nowadays. - 7 - <Brainhammer/Doktor Necrosis> **MC12**

GRIEVANCE - The Phantom Novel · Head Not Found / Voices of Wonder
Excellent combination of Black and Death Metal. - 9 - <Ray> **MC12**

GRIFFIN - Wasteland Serenades · Season of Mist
I was anxious to check out this band because it features an ex-member of BLOODTHORN whom I'm a huge fan of. GRIFFIN aren't at all what I expected, but that doesn't detract from the fact that this is some great music. Style-wise these guys share a blood-line with TESTAMENT serving up some tasty head-banging Thrash. Vocalist Tommy Sebastian strongly reminds me of Chuck Billy with his angry, aggressive approach. The songs vary in structure from melodic to speedy. Upon closer inspection there seems to be an underlying Doomy atmosphere which enhances the overall delivery of the music. Technical guitar-licks provided by Kai Nergaard (ex-BLOODTHORN) are impressive in their complexity and are yet another benefit to GRIFFIN's sound. I can't find any faults in the production either. If you're looking for some Thrash that's a cut above the rest, this band may just be the ticket! - 8.25 - <Painkiller>

GRIMFIST - Ghouls of Grandeur · Candlelight
GRIMFIST (featuring members of IMMORTAL and GORELORD) are a band with a few good ideas and a couple of not-so-great ones, with the results sadly ending up mostly in the middle of the road. The intentions are respectable, the blending of Thrash, Death and Black Metal, and none of the riffs are terrible, but for whatever reason the effort overall sounds contrived. The album’s most intense surges usually occur when the grueling Death vocals are employed, yet a generous portion of these riffs sounded better in the late ‘80s/early ‘90s when they were first written. Perhaps my hopes were just too high? It’s hard to believe a band with such borrowed tactics and unintelligent lyrics can draw comparisons to MARDUK, IMMOLATION, and IMMORTAL. I was born in the morning, but it wasn’t yesterday morning. - 6.5 - <Jack>

GRIMNESS - Increase Humanity Disgust · Two Fat Men
With a band name like GRIMNESS, you’d better be playing Black Metal. No word sums up the genre better. Luckily, this Italian quartet does not disappoint. This is total newer SATYRICON worship with a beefed up Death/Thrash edge. The pinnacle of this opus is the song, "Katharsis in Vein." The hooks on this cut are more addictive than crack, as it’s one of those songs that you can never hear just once. While none of the other tracks quite rival this song’s adhesive magnificence, it is a solid listen overall. Watch out, SWEDEN! Italy has five good Metal bands now!! - 9.25 - <Jack>

GRIMOIRE - A Requiem for the Light · Euphonious/Voices of Wonder
Although there isn't anything revolutionary about playing fast, keyboard laden Black Metal, even when it has some acoustic and other non-standard elements, GRIMOIRE do a generally excellent job and bring a touch of unique identity to their music. It's also worthy to note that you don't see to many Black Metal bands from the so-called holy country of Israel [I can think of a few. -Ed.]. A great production backs up the band's blisteringly demonic attack. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC10**

GRIP, INC. - Power of Inner Strength · Metal Blade
For those of you completely out of touch, this is Dave Lombardo's new band. Is Dave still the supreme drum guy? Oh yeah! Is his new band as intense as SLAYER? Mostly. Somehow Dave managed to really pull this off. GRIP, INC. are sort of a Thrash unit, and kick it out like really no other Thrash band does now. Every now and then, a little hint of Industrial pokes it's head through the din. The intensity is turned all the way up, and they just go for the kill from the first song onward. I had to dock them a little for the unpardonable sin of rhyming "fire" with "desire." But, other than that, this is pretty good. - 9 - <Ray> **MC9**

GRIP, INC. - Nemesis · Metal Blade
As much as I worshipped their debut, The Power of Inner Strength, this is clearly superior. The vocals are more individual, but still powerful, and raw when necessary. The music is somewhat more diverse, but with Dave Lombardo beating skins, and Waldemar Sorychta handling the guitar duties (as well as the production), you know it's always intense. The unique style of Thrash played by GRIP, INC. is nearly in a class by itself, and all fans of Metal (in its many forms) are advised to check it out. You'll not be disappointed. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC10**

GRIP INC. - Solidify · Metal Blade
Riff-wise, this occasionally departs from their first two LPs, generally into the start-stop territory that’s less favored by me. Very fortunately, Gus makes no similar concessions with his vocals, and Waldemar injects enough variation into his guitar work to almost make you forget the less-than-great parts, and there are a lot of great moments on here, too. But the bottom line is that I really don’t like this "90’s" riffing style. Thankfully they don’t employ it all the time, but a little goes a long way with me. And things certainly do get better as the album goes along. So, I’m torn on how to rate Solidify, and I’ll wait for their next disc to say anything too bad about GRIP INC. - 8 - <Ray> **MC12**

GROG - Odes to the Carnivorous · Warpath
Considering that this is only their second full-length CD in a decade, it's clear that GROG likes to take their time to get things right. Also clear is that I've got to immediately find their Macabre Requiems CD from 1997. This Death Metal isn't simply brutal, it's also easy to remember. That's a difficult line to walk, but thanks to the strong songwriting (including the injection of some slower, moodier parts), flawless playing, and the outstanding production, GROG make it seem like no problem at all. - 9.5 - <Ray>

GROINCHURN - Already Dead EP · Happy Hamster
I’m a big fan of both 3" CDs (which this is) and GROINCHURN, so I was really overjoyed to see this in the mailbox. These guys are Grind masters, and that is proven beyond any shadow of a doubt during every second of these twelve-and-a-half minutes. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC12**

GROINCHURN - 6 x 9 + 5 10" picture disk EP · Fudgeworthy
These guys get all the cool formats. How can anyone have both a 3"CD and a 10" picture disk? I’m jealous. At least these guys deserve it, though. As you can see above, they completely kick ass, and the Grind delivered here is just as good as always. This brutal slab is also available on CD, but my rating reflects the extra sickness of this 10" format, which contains 5 extra songs from their long since sold out split 7" with CAPTAIN 3 LEG. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC12**

GROINCHURN - Whoami · Morbid
The trick with Grind is to make the music somehow entertaining enough to be memorable for more than just speed and intensity. GRIONCHURN has no problem with accomplishing that goal, but they're not exactly afraid to vary the tempo, either. The "weirdness" factor can be somewhat high here, but more often than not, that's hardly a problem. - 8.75 - <Ray>

GRONE - Chucklepatch · Gomek
This has got to be the most unoriginal band in current existence. My interpretation of this recording: A couple of fifteen year old kids got really stoned and drunk, listened to GODFLESH’s Streetcleaner one time, and did their best to imitate what they heard. The idiotic guitar "experimentation" in the second track, "Smiledriver," forces me to eject the disc, throw it on the ground, step on it, and wish for the death or severe injury of the clueless bastards responsible for this waste of studio time. I could have made a higher quality album by setting a boom box in the middle of the room and recording myself hitting the strings of my guitar with my dick, with tambourines strapped to my feet, yodeling in the process. - 1 - <Jack> **MC12**

GROPE - Desert Storm · Diehard
"Heavy" Alternative warning! Cunt Rock bullshit. - 3 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

GROTESQUE - In the Embrace of Evil · Black Sun
This CD compiles the GROTESQUE's legendary Incantation EP, 6 tracks recorded for an album that was never released, and two brand new cuts. Of course it goes without saying that members of this band went on to form LIERS IN WAIT and the more well known AT THE GATES, so that should give you an idea of what this sounds like if you don't already know. At long last this very influential band will have the recognition they deserve. - 9.75 - <Ray> **MC10**

GROTESQUEUPHORIA - Euphoric Discordance · demo
Decent Death Metal from the East Coast. Very brutal, a little underproduced, and forget about originality. Think a poor man’s DEEDS OF FLESH with a dab of Old School simplicity. Everything here is just above average enough not to suck, but the bottom line is that I’m bored halfway through the second track. To sum it up perfectly for my generation, if this were the mid-90s, this band would be on Wild Rags. - 6.75 - <Jack>
www.grotesqueuphoria.com

GROTUS - Mass · London
I've been a fan of these cats since I saw them open for MR. BUNGLE back in '92. However, the problems they had then have not gone away and their good points have been pretty stagnant. There's a feeling that they're trying to do something new with political lyrics, Industrial thud rhythms, and metallic heaviness, but nothing genuinely new ever comes forth. However, other bands who try similar things usually fall flat, while the guys named for a gross bloated scrotum always deliver a fairly satisfying platter every year, so I'm still with 'em. A word of advice for vocalist Lars, though: hey man, "gruff" sung vocals don't sound too crazy anymore after you've heard the throat invocations of CANNIBAL CORPSE and the Artists Formerly Known as ANAL CUNT. - 9 - <J.J.> **MC10**

GRUESOME STUFF RELISH - Teenage Giallo Grind · Razorback
Razorback records consistently releases the sickest, goriest, heaviest, fastest and flat out best Death Grind of maybe any label in the USA. I'd never heard of GRS before this album (but I do now also have their excellent split with BRUTALITY REIGNS SUPREME), and I'm embarrassed about that, because this somewhat strangely named band is great! Brutal and disgusting in the good (evil) way. - 8.25 - <Ray>

GRYN - The 16 Stitches... EP · DEMO (CD)
Wether they let their more TOOL-like influences shine through, or when they allow their more "intense" tendencies to surface, this sucks. When the music is wimpy, this geek sounds like the no-talent cock stroker from ALICE IN CHAINS, and when the music "heats up," he screams like that little bitch from PANTERA. He even Raps in a few places. It’s clear that this band follows the trends like good sheep, and since the world sucks, I’m sure they’re probably already signed to Sony. - 1.25 - <Ray> **MC11**

GTR - King Biscuit Flower Hour Presents · King Biscuit Flower Hour
This is as bland and uninteresting as it gets. - 1.5 - <Ray> **MC11** - "Last Second Additions"

GUIDANCE OF SIN - Soulseducer · Mighty
Melodic & mournful Death, played to near perfection. Very impressive. - 9.5 - <Ray> **MC12**

GUILLOTINE - Under the Guillotine · Necropolis
A little deadly Thrash anyone? For a moment, I thought the first song, "Executioner" was a cover of ONSLAUGHT’s "Let There be Death," since they share the same main riff and the first line of the lyrics is almost identical. GUILLOTINE are very much a tribute to the past (you could probably name the band that inspired each of these songs, and even the layout is right out of ‘84), but they certainly do a convincing job. I consider this a return to the glory days of Metal Supremacy. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC11**

GUILT - Bardstown Ugly Box · Victory
All the dorks who think that GREEN DAY are Hardcore should probably get subjected to a little GUILT. Not as continually intense as some HC, but generally a lot heavier and more memorable, and that's good news for me. - 8.75 - <Ray> **MC9**

GUILT - Further EP · Victory
Six songs - all untitled. Normally I'd be forced to not like that, but in this case, I'll make an exception. The instrumental track 1 builds up in intensity slowly, reaching a frenzy before ending. Track 2 starts strong and stays that way for its duration, although it is somewhat less strictly Hardcore than I remember. Moving on to track 3, we have another, more intense, groove infested Hardcore cut. Track 4 again starts soft, but quickly builds in power. The fifth song follows the Groovecore style of the others. But the final cut is a piano dirge almost worthy of MY DYING BRIDE in its melancholy. This is a weird EP, and I think the production sometimes does too much polishing of the music, but I appreciate the experimentation (and the pencil!) and the fact that the band managed to more or less stick to their roots while trying it. - 9 - <Ray> **MC10**

GUILT - Thru the Night · First Warning
This is really MTV, if you know what I mean. I'm sure GUILT would be the "next big thing" if they had the money to blow on a video. This CD only has five songs, yet it is not referred to as an EP (it is less than 30 minutes). I don't like that. As for the the songs: Pop Metal. Just watch MTV and wait for something with a fuzzy guitar. This is completely worthless shit. It bothered me to listen to it. I had to play Altars of Madness [MORBID ANGEL] six times just to calm down. - 3.25 - <Ray> **MC5**

GUNJAH - Heredity · Futurist
This changes from sounding like latter-day EXODUS, to sounding like latter-day NUCLEAR ASSAULT. Musically this is okay, but lyrically and vocally it falls short. Very short. - 6.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

GUTTED - Bleed for Us to Live · Red Light
The only drawback to that band is that sometimes the lyrics are goofy. Certainly not always, though. Mark's vocals are great, and he fits them into the music like Glen Benton. The energy level is fuckin' nuclear, and these songs refuse to be forgotten, especially "Death Before Dismember." - 9 - <Ray> **MC8**

GUTTED - Gutted · Loud N Local
Ahh, the joys of mid-paced Death Metal. GUTTED are walking the center line on a few fronts. They’re not too fast, nor too slow. Not too extra heavy, either. So what makes them special? Their songs can be memorable sometimes, but not always. The sparse use of keyboards helps, though, and some of the riffs are great (the first one in "Silenced," for example). I also liked their cover of "Manitou," which I think is a pretty odd (but cool) choice of VENOM songs to do. The inclusion of the songs from their Disease demo is a little extra incentive. Not awesome, but certainly worthwhile. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC11**

GUTTED PULP - Swollen Contusion · DEMO
Death Metal, raw and brutal. They vary the speed to keep interest up, and it works for them. As does the thick production. The vocals are positively insane: Extremely deep phlegm vomiting, mixed with the occasional (somewhat) higher scream (which I actually prefer here). A little work could be done production-wise, but this is ultra fuckin' sick. - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

GUTTURAL SECRETE - Artistic Creation with Cranial Stumps · Unmatched Brutality
Extremely guttural US Death/Grind! The playing is tighter than a kike's ass, the production is solid, and the vocalist is fucking amazing. I am totally reminded of the band DEVOURMENT, and that's a good thing. - 8.75 - <Jack>

GWAR - America Must Be Destroyed · Metal Blade
Yeah this new album has the best production and, supposedly, songwriting so far, but several of the songs travel really far from the Thrash realm, I'm not sure if that's a good idea for these freaks, but at least the songs are memorable (and pretty amusing). Lots of drugs, sex (with a quadriplegic) and destruction (by a mutant dinosaur) grace the lyrics. The Scumdogs have broadened their style, but this remains mostly true to form. Does several homosexual, crack smoking, human butchering monsters, destroying the Earth in graphic detail sound cool? Well, except for the gay parts, it's at least stupid (and funny) enough to be entertaining. And they have apparently learned to play their instruments pretty well. But I have to wonder how much longer they can keep the joke going and the image up... - 8.25 - <Ray> **MC7**

GWAR - Rag Na Rok · Metal Blade
Well, it's clear that everything that was heavy about GWAR is now in X-COPS. The lyrics are sometimes amusing, and almost always entertaining, but most of the really sick lines, like, "I fucked her ass with a frozen piece of shit," are long gone. GWAR - heaviness - sickness = not much. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC9**

GWAR - Toilet Earth · Metal Blade
Well, the first song, "Saddam a Go-Go," features a horn section. I guess this continues the musical experimentation begun on the last album, America Must Be Destroyed, and I'm glad to hear it, and this is by no means a wimpy album. The experimentation only adds to the sickness of the GWAR experience. Also, the songs are really memorable, and the production is pretty flawless. I like it. A lot. - 9.25 - <Ray> **MC8**

GWAR - Cärnival of Chaos · Metal Blade
I have tolerated GWAR in the past because they were funny and sort of heavy. Usually that’s a memorable combo. But what happens if you take away most of the heaviness? Then it’s just a joke band. And what if the joke isn’t funny anymore? GWAR is getting there. Their last album, Rag Na Rök was well on its way to being useful only in backyard Tron games. Cärnival... is an extremely slight redemption (probably more like a small aberration in their downhill free-fall, but only their next album will tell for sure), since some of the tracks are listenable, and a few (such as "Penguin Attack," "The Private Pain of Techno Destructo" and the New-Punk, Beefcake the Mighty sung anthem "Hate Love Songs") even sorta good, but the rest are the dried up shit around a scumdog’s asshole. A couple Country styled attempts at humor, a bunch of GUNS N ROSES kind of Cunt Rock, and a Lounge number sung by the Gwar Hairy Armpit Bitch. GWAR are running out of ideas fast. - 7.5 - <Ray> **MC11**

GWAR - We Kill Everything · Metal Blade
Man, I thought Cärnival of Chaos was a disappointment. This is considerably worse. Oh sure, they try to be funny, but it just never seems to work. And the "experimentation" with all these musical styles (Country, Ass Rock, and other assorted inane pap) only makes it seem as if they are desperately throwing shit at the wall to see what sticks. They are smart enough to make the first few seconds good, but things deteriorate very quickly after that. I just do not understand how GWAR could have felt good enough about this material to ever let it see the black of night. How much worse will they get before they give up? - 4 - <Ray> **MC12**

GWAR - Violence Has Arrived · Metal Blade
Hey, Metal Blade, if you want an accurate review of one of your releases how about sending us a full-length album instead of just a 3-song promo? Anyway, these new tracks show a slightly heavier side of GWAR than I remember from past releases. Opener "Battle-Lust" is a real killer packed with heavy guitars and speedy riffs. Intense! The second track, "Immortal Corrupter," has an aggressive mid-paced groove along with some well-produced double-bass plodding. The final track, "Bloody Mary," is more along the lines of what GWAR have done on previous efforts. It rocks, it rolls, it's kinda hokey...it's GWAR! Sure would like to know what the rest of the album sounds like because these three tracks are quite good. - 8.25 - <Painkiller>