thegaymetaller's Last.fm Journal

Tarot in the UK

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 17:55:42 +0000

Tarot has a staunch fanbase in the UK, and some diehard fans. I e-mailed Zakku to ask him if he'd thought of playing in the UK before. I am prepared to bust a gut to get them to play over here, be it petitions, e-mailing venues, King Foo, whatever.

Who thinks trying to get the legends that are Tarot to play in the UK is a good idea?

It's crazy, but the worst that can happen is that people say no. Or it all goes horribly wrong. xD

Insert witty Heathen-related title here

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 14:55:57 +0000

Mon 8 Mar – PaganFest

Paganfest 2010 review

Paganfest has been a huge success worldwide amongst heathen meatheads and their kin, and so at last the celebrated tour came to London- after disappointingly missing a stop in England in 2009- with a renewed passion and vengeance! On the bill this evening were patriotic Russian metallers Arkona, Bavarian Varg, Dornenreich, Eluveitie (making a welcome return to our shores) and headliners Finntroll, who were back surprisingly soon after touring the UK only a matter of months ago.

The 02 Islington venue, parked oddly in the middle of a shopping complex, provided a welcome relief from standing in the freezing air whilst queuing, and an excellent spot to pitch a camp or two and nestle down with a bottle of mead whilst waiting for the evening to begin. Which of course diligently and in true pagan style, my clan and I did! What’s the legendary Paganfest without some traditional pagan drink at your elbow, and braving the freezing winds (ahem, of England) in a hardy manner, keeping an eye out for attacking Gauls?

After some documented trouble at the border, the tourbuses rolled in at little past noon. Finnish giants and Paganfest regulars Finntroll, as ever, were lovely guys, hanging around the doors on a very prolonged and hungover fag break and being very warm and affable- even for trolls (even though, bless him, Sami had ‘just woken up’. At that point, it was 4pm). Eluveitie, too, were hanging around the venue, and I was lucky enough to jam with Chrigel (an extremely nice man, and seemed very, very happy at me and Mazza’s Swiss flag- hell, she got a marriage proposal. I however, got a blank look and the notification that I lack tits. Ah well). All in all, the only band to be arses was Arkona- Masha was in a right old huff and very unapproachable; we put it down to PMT. Many fags, pictures and hugs later, doors opened!

Doors opened promptly, despite the apparent trouble with Customs, and the gig went underway smoothly. Arkona, despite being extremely unapproachable outside the venue unlike the other bands, put on a relatively good show and it was clear that the audience definitely appreciated Masha’s strong female vocals as a contrast to the nearly all-male line-up within the other bands. For the more Finntroll-orientated crowd, Arkona’s upbeat folk metal was well received, the costumes and dancing all adding to the theatrical element. [6]

Varg next, and while they were a ‘good’ band, like Dornenreich who followed, they were no where near outstanding. To my eyes, the costumes were painfully ripped off from Turisas, even though the music was blacker and less melodic. Not boring, and certainly kept the crowd’s momentum up, but nothing to write home about. [5] Similarly, despite having a small fanbase of staunch fans, Dornenreich’s set did nothing for me. Arguments I have to agree with is that they didn’t have the ‘X’ factor to them, that spark that can keep duos captivating the audience, and in my opinion had they any longer on stage, half of the audience would have drooped under the blandness of it all. Certainly a more original ‘style’ within the folk metal base, but their desire for difference couldn’t stave off our heathen lust for some real drinking music. [5]

On to the co-headliner of the night, the Swiss opus that is Eluveitie! Their set began with the ethereal opening track of their new album ‘Everything Remains (As it Never Was)’; Otherworld, and as Chrigel has stated, gave off a mystical ‘Galadriel-esque’ aura (for those Lord of the Rings fans amongst you). Bringing the real dancing music back to Paganfest was track after track of, must I say, a far more metal-orientated Eluveitie. But it is clear that they’ve not forgotten their roots, and folk instrumentation, especially excellent hurdy-gurdy work, was prevalent and consistent throughout each new song. From delectable tune and new single Thousandfold, to immense crowd-pleaser (and bagpipe’d) Inis Mona and acoustic track Omnos, Eluveitie’s performance was a showcase of what the pinnacle of folk metal achievement is: uplifting, wild and just damn addictive. [9]

After that performance, Finntroll, the certified headliners, just couldn’t cut the mustard. Indeed, I might say that they were (gasp!) overshadowed by Eluveitie that night. Many people were just too exhausted to go crazy for their performance, and even myself, a diehard member of Team Troll, couldn’t exert myself much further. That being said, Finntroll’s performance as ever was powerful, and included behemoths from their latest album ‘Nifelvind’ (a masterpiece combining a satanic carnival, troll punk and black metal), including atmospheric opener Dråp, bouncy traditional Finntroll-esque Under Bergets Rot (the acoustic of which features a quote: ‘kazoo army’) and Solsagan- whose chorus is a garble of joiky nonsense. In a good way. Highlight of the set was frontman Mathias receiving a ‘present’ from the crew, which turned out to be a box of Disney princess items- an in-joke I’m not sure I want to know about… [7.5]

On the whole, this wasn’t the best Paganfest line-up. But with two sterling headliners, and with Eluveitie’s earth-moving performance, it was definitely worth it.

JG

The Mighty Amon Amarth

Mon, 2 Nov 2009 12:59:35 +0000

Sun 1 Nov – Amon Amarth, Entombed

It's been a long time since I've reviewed a gig- and being battered, aching and bruised, it's now a perfect time to do one!

As in my other reviews, I get to many gigs at ridiculous o'clock to stalk the band. Yay- over-obsessiveness FTW. So that morning I woke up my jolly cohort Patrick (an AA n0ob) at around 8 in the morning.

We got there at 10; we were aiming for 12. And it was PISSING it down. Not a great start, but hey, a bit of monsoon weather never hurt anyone. And damn did that tourbus look warm. :( So we found shelter under the eaves of the venue, took out beer (OFC), made phonecalls. And me being grumpy and drunk from the night before, it was a stressful time for all.

Soon the band started waking up, and it was teim for stalking! Costa seemed to be the place most of them went, and I left with 3 signatures and a dreamy expression on my face. Johan KNOWS me now, let's just say that. (Me: (unable to contain the fanboyish outpourings of love) 'OMFG YOU'RE SO SEXY!' Johan: '........ (Y) That's what my girlfriend thinks'. Patrick: '....owned.')

We were joined at T-4 hours by some other randomers I had met from the March gig (who, may I say, were very impressed at my Johan stalking skillz), and sat in the now rain-free Koko veranda.

Roll on several food trips later, and after 9 hours waiting in the cold (pfff, I am SO hardcore) the gig started. A little late, but the bands got on promptly, which was a really nice change from the hour wait in the venue for Battlelore.

Entombed. Yeah, they were pretty alright! Nothing to write home about; lovely guys and a fun stage prescence. The guitarist looked like my uncle so much so that it was scary though... ahem. Anyway.

Just decent metal, to be honest. I enjoyed the music, although each song sounded a bit samey for me. But they had an awesome, enthusiastic crowd, and Elgi of course, an awesome voice (even more awesome when joined on stage by Mr. Hegg). But really, we were all here for Amon Amarth. ;)

From the band's, ahem... happy (?) demeanours when I met them, I knew that Johan Hegg was in a good mood, and not that hungover (!). However, I had not, as I had premeditated before, asked him to take his shirt off. :( Fail. And alas when he came on, as sexy and mighty and mightily sexy as ever, he did so with cloth covering his chest. Ah. You can't win everytime I guess.

They opened, as per usual, with much screaming and love from the crowd. Twilight of the Thundergod was the opening song, but unfortunately, there was (or, sounded to me as though there was) a problem with the guitars. Still, drums and screaming are fine, too. All in all, for stage performance throughout the night, a 10/10! They were lovely, and on fine form and very, very happy!

Of course, the 'surprise' of the evening was Perttu from Apocalyptica giving a kick to proceedings- and of course, as the ladies so graciously screamed in my ear- man candy. (Oh OK, he was hot, I admit it. And he had a motherfucking cello). He was there for Live for the Kill, Hermod's Ride To Hel (which was a complete surprise!), Embrace of the Endless Ocean, and did I see him in another thing as well? EotEO was soberly dedicated to Mike, and was a very moving piece for me, and as I could see, for Johan too. Not to move me to tears, but fitting; poignant. Amongst the crowd (and my personal) favourites was Asator, which they didn't play live last time, of course, Death in Fire, new favourite Valkyries Ride, which I thought was a cool performance, Guardians Of Asgaard- for which Elgi made a comeback and Cry of the Black Birds.

Apart from all songs we have that we are dying to see live and didn't (for me, Friends of the Suncross and Thousand Years of Oppression), their set was epic win. The sound could have been better, but it far from spoiled the night. The guys had epic stage prescence, and all around, it was viking debauchery galore.

Johan is also God.

Roll on next AA gig in London! :'D OK, maybe that's a bit much, but AA are one of the few bands who I really do enjoy going to every gig of.

Metal From Finland. Enough to drive anyone stir crazy.

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 19:00:03 +0000

EPIC TAGZ: Nightwish Tarot Anette Olzon

Anyone else fucking fed up of those twats on the MFF news feed trolling the Nightwish news; tearing the shit out of any related news?

Marco forgets the lyrics- 'OMFG DRUNK BASTARD'
Marco gives an interview and mentions how he likes to sing a lot in 'new' NW- 'OMFG GREEDY MONEY GRABBING TWAT'
Anette is asked yet again about her collapse in November- 'OMFG WHY DOES SHE BRING THAT UP/??????///???'
Anette writes something on her blog- 'OMFG SHE HAS A BLOG??!?!?!?! RETARD'
Tuomas and Anette comment on that the 2008 tour was hectic- 'THIS IS A BAND IN A CRISIS!!!111!!!! FALLING APART!!!111'

At the end of the day, Nightwish doesn't make their own hysteria. The fans do it for them by reading into stuff too much and generally being obsessive bitches. I don't see how people can complain that they have lost x amount of respect for Nightwish, because all they're doing is being sucked into the shit stirring. Seriously, guys. WTF? Leave them alone for once in a fucking while.

Oh, and RIP MJ.

P.S.: am greatful for e-mail addresses/home addresses of these people. I may take a leaf out of Jo Brand's book and send them a turd through the post.

Black Sails over London: a gig review

Tue, 5 May 2009 17:09:22 +0000

Sun 3 May – Black Sails over UK

To sum it up right at the beginning before I ramble off on a tangent- I had a great night, which is a break from the mediocre experience I had last time. Seriously, I enjoyed myself. Getting floored by a fat dude stagediving? Not a problem. Being mauled against the stage for Alestorm's set? Who cares! It was a bloody good night- and well worth more than the 10 quid I paid to see it.

And hopefully all those tenners will add up to pay the tourbus's clamp and fine! I guess that's just London for you, eh?

For anyone there who wants to know (you probably don't, but anyway), I was the dude at the front of the queue in the Amon Amarth tee and Finntroll hoodie who turned up at ridiculous o'clock outside the Underworld. Go me and my free fucking time! Alas, I didn't get a chance to get photos/autographs, as I had hoped (Heri was too busy wandering around Camden with a mysterious blonde woman, much to my *delight*, and the roadies glared at us at every possible opportunity), but still, bumming around in the sunshine with a Subway is much fun when you're my age, especially when you're in fits of giggles with a mate because you're childishly (and slightly scarily obsessed with) checking around the tourbus for Týr.

What's that sticky wet sound? The sound of sensible, older Týr fans' eyes rolling up to the Gods? Pft.

Fast forward several hours, and me standing gawping at the stage. I believe 'intimate' is an understatement, when you are getting bass-in-the-face by Alestorm at every opportunity, and Heri's leg is posed quite nicely above your head, coupled with a drinking horn dangling off the mic RIGHT in front of your nose. It was the first time I had been to the Underworld, and I found it quite a novelty; it wasn't *ridiculously* small, it was actually quite cosy. Standing comfortably in the middle, I was ready for a good night.

And then the monstrosity that was Middenhelm arrived on stage: a bunch of D&D nerds trying to be kvlt in illegible band tees. Image change isn't the right word... perhaps a fucking Queer Eye for the Straight Metalhead overhaul is needed? Or a strict diet regimen for one member in particular. And some hair extensions for another. And perhaps a few lessons in being original? Scrap that, just go back to your day jobs or grow up, Middenhelm, because we've heard it all before, and from guys that don't look in pain (or bored out of their minds) on stage. The songs were samey, had ridiculous names, and granted you got a moshipt going, but come on; anything with riffs in will do for a run about. If any of you missed Middenhelm, you didn't miss anything much. Apart from a chance to shake your head sadly.

After that, we were all much in need of some good music: Týr was the band of the night for many there, including myself.

Alestorm kiddies, go to Nifelhel, because it's time to sit up and listen to perhaps one of the greatest live bands I've seen. Their stage presence was flawless, and despite some sound mishaps, the music was perfect. I honestly couldn't fault them for anything, except that they should have been the headliner. UK headlining dates next time, please! By the way, to the guy that bottled the bassist (who is a total sweetie!) go rot impaled on a fucking niđ pole, argr bastard. How about some old-fashioned Viking insults for you?

Starting of the set was the raucous headbang fest that was Hold The Heathen Hammer High (to which many of us did, taking off our mjolnirs in salutation). A perfect, fresh sound from the boys in armour, and just a great opener.

Rolling in next, after our ears were buzzing with happiness, was Sinklars Vísa. The a capella singing at the start of it was amazing. The roll into the heaviness in the track was amazing. Heri's body was amazing. And yes, that isn't the last time you'll hear me fanboy about him.

I didn't get the tracklist (a bloke next to me snatched it, thank you very much, sir), but I'll give a rough idea of the songs. Next was probably Regin Smiđur, probably my favourite Týr song. When it comes to favourite songs, you always hope they hold up to your expectations. I have to say, I wasn't displeased! I had learned the chorus especially for the gig (which was a BITCH) and we had a brilliant sing along (however shitty our pronunciation was) and groove down.

In between the songs, Heri spouted some patter about Nordic things, much to our pagan delight. He also stripped. But of course, the Nordic patter was far more important to me... being asatruar... and not of course, Heri's sweaty, muscular...

Onto Wild Rover, one of my personal favourite Týr takes on drinking songs. For this one, the Alestorm boys joined Týr onstage for a drunken, plastic-beer-glass-held-high anthem, performed sterlingly and with passion. This was the singalong of the night, and a feel good, bonhomie vibe floated around the stage. Pagans make the best lovers. And also drinking buddies.

I know by now I’ve fucked up the setlist, but I roughly have all of the songs they played- a grand total of 10. Up somewhere close next (after all the toasts of skål), was Loka Tattur- a song about Loki. Hence the name. Now, I’ll admit, being a fairy recent convert to Týr, I hadn’t heard some of the songs on the setlist (or hadn’t ‘taken them in’), and this was one of them. This, as well as new song Tróndur í Gøtu, were great surprises, and are probably the main reason my neck is hurting like fuck. Anyone who went away from this gig after these beauties were played needs their ears (and life) checked.

Somewhere also in the mists of my memory was the opus that is Hail to the Hammer. Cue pagan pride (see what I did there? *Snerk*) and frenetic arm-waving. Tracks like HTTH and Loka are clear indicators that Nordic mythology need not be confined to the uni books, but can be incorporated into modern life and accessible for all to learn about. As Heri said, modern religion is a load of bullshit.

A track I was dubious about seeing live was Eric The Red’s Ólavur Riddarós. Being not too impressed with this on CD, I was wondering how this would translate into a live show. My fears about this being a downer to the set were unfounded; once again Heri and the boys impressed and surprised me with this one.

Apart from the encore, Whiskey in the Jar (which was greeted by tumultuous cheers), Ramund Hin Unge was the last to be played. Another crowd pleaser, this went down a treat, showcasing Týr’s style perfectly with its storming galloping rhythm and gorgeous vocals.

It must have been some kind of magic that touched the stage that night, because that performance was certainly one of a kind.

After that, I believed nothing could top that. Trust me, I *was* looking forward to seeing what all the fuss was about headliner of the night, Alestorm, but after Týr’s incredible performance I was sure they wouldn’t be able to hold it up. And they didn’t, ALTHOUGH their performance was, no mistake, a technically good one. Not for the first time, I believed that the bands had been mixed up. Týr should be put on a cushioned plinth, not play second to some novice metallers from Scotland.

All favourites were played. Actually, isn’t every Alestorm song a favourite? Amongst the myriad of pirate-themed nastiness was Wenches and Mead (I want more wenches! More wenches and mead!), which got me, an eye-rolling, Turisas scorning fan, mumbling about mead with a grin on my face. My personal favourites of the night was the jig-worthy Keelhauled, which showed that keyboardist Chris is blessed with supersonic fingers; Famous Ol’ Spiced, about, well… drinking, and Captain Morgan’s Revenge, also about drinking. Oh, and a curse. And pirates. And dancing.

Apart from the all too obvious fact that Týr should have been heading the night, Alestorm, are, bless them, a bunch of ugly fuckers. But, in this world where music is everything (… ahem) let us forget that. (After all, I had Heri and a random guy backstage to look at!) And also that Gareth decided it would be funny to taunt me with his large bass. And that I got completely flattened by the numerous stage divers. Note: jumping on a skinny man is going to do you no favours.

In my eyes, the best bit of Alestorm’s set was the encore of Wolves of the Sea, which featured the return of Heri on keyboards! He added a new energy to the song, which I hadn’t really thought too much about from hearing it beforehand. It was hard not to grin at his truly Scandinavian pronunciation, ‘yarr’ing and (pretty good!) keyboard solo attempt. Vikings > Pirates, but when they mix, it’s a whole different thing.

So that about sums it up, with much emphasis on Týr (sorry Alestorm –and Oden forbid- Middenhelm fans). All in all as I said, a great night!

Music meme of kriegness

Fri, 1 May 2009 18:59:20 +0000

1. What's your favorite song by 15?
Tarot

Now that's a hard one, with Tarot having so many standout tracks. I'm going to choose 3:

1. Pyre Of Gods
2. Tides
3. Wings Of Darkness

2. How did you get into 20?
Feeling B

Through Rammstein. Flake Lorenz, who does keys and vocals for Feeling B also does keys for Rammstein. Everything that dude touches turns to awesome, sarcastic genius.

3. Who is your favorite member in 1?
Eluveitie

Chrigel Glanzmann. I could go on about him forever: the voice, the rugged looks, the skill, the personality... but I'll just stop there. Seriously.

4. Whats your favorite lyric bit by 29?
Heidevolk

From Saksenland

Saksen, smeed de stammen samen
Verbind de broeders met hun bloed
Op hen is nu de eed gezworen
Van broederschap en heldenmoed
Omringd door vuur en een regen van pijlen
Verblind door de haat die in ons brandt
Saksenzonen geven hun leven en sterven voor het Saksenland

No idea what that means (and I can't be arsed to translate it), but it's quite epic! From my primitive knowledge of German, I'd say something patriotic. ;)

5. Have you ever seen 22 live?
Satyricon

Nope, but I would like to.

6. What's your favorite album from 10?
Turbonegro

Probably Retox

7. Do you own any merchandise from 3?
Lamb of God

No, I don't! Actually I haven't seen any in the merch shops around here!

8. What is a good memory you have of 7?
Amon Amarth

First time seeing them live at the Unholy Alliance, and catching Johan Soederberg's pic, which I have now misplaced somewhere in my tip of a room! :3 Good times, good times.

9. Is there a member of the same age as you in 2?
Nightwish

Holy Oden, no!

10. When did you first get into 8?
Korpiklaani

From getting into the folk metal scene via Finntroll, and doing a bit of research about different bands in the genre. I think my first song was Beer Beer.

11. Who likes 4 along with you?
Rammstein

A whole load of people all over the world! :D

12. Which song did you first hear from 16?
Guns N' Roses

Paradise City.

13. What song made you fall in love with 5?
Elvenking

The awesome power cheesiness of The Divided Heart made me adore them.

14. Which song do you not like by 18?
Dethklok

No idea!

15. Why do you like 14's songs?
Trashlight Vision

Acey Slade is gorgeous with a cool attitude, and isn't afraid to bring dirty old sleaze punk back to life and rock it the good old way!

16. Where did you first hear 6?
Finntroll

On their Myspace page.

17. How long was 19 a singer before you liked them?
Slayer

Long before I was born, haha!

18. Does 13 have a song that gives you a bad memory?
The White Stripes

No. At least... I don't think so...

19. When did you get into 17?
Turisas

A friend of mine on Deviant Art was obsessed with them, so I decided to check out the fuss.

20. How long have you been into 9?
Marilyn Manson

Not so much into him nowadays, but I was heavily into him for around about 1-2 years.

21. If 11 had a concert 300 miles away, would you drive there to see them?
Battlelore

I can't drive! xD So that's pretty out of the question. But I don't think I would go that crazy to see a concert of theirs. They'd have to come to Blighty! xD I suppose if there were freebies and goodies involved...

22. How many CDs do you own of 12?
Týr

I own Eric The Red and Black Sails over Europe (compilation CD) in digital format, and also other songs of theirs.

23. Does 21 have a song that makes you cry?
Alestorm

I should hope not, hehe!

24. Does 27 have a song that makes you happy?
In Flames

Not really. ;)

25. Does 23 have a song that makes you smile?
Queen

Bohemian Rhapsody. Good memories of this song. :3

26. What's the last song you've listened to from 28?
Murderdolls

Can't remember!

27. Is there a song by 32 that you've listened to more than 30 times?
Panzer AG

Nope, as I've only got 18 scrobbled plays!

28. What is a song from 50 that you've only listened to once?
Svartsot

Nope.

29. Is there a song you are sick of hearing by 24?
Cradle Of Filth

I don't really listen to them anymore, but I'd have to say Temptation.

30. What song got you into 40?
Alice Cooper

Poison.

31. What is your favorite single by 25?
Pantera

No bloody idea!

32. If 49 hated you, what would you do?
Blind Guardian

.... Cry?

33. What would you say if 42 or one of the members from 42 asked you out?
Falkenbach

Say "AYE!" to his pretentious, yet very sexily mysterious ways. xD

34. Would you care if 41 had a boyfriend/girlfriend?
30 Seconds to Mars

Nope.

35. Who has the best voice in 46?
Ensiferum

The singer. DUH!

36. Do you think 26 is/are good-looking?
Grand Magus

No! xD

37. How many times have you listened to your favorite song by 36?
R.E.M

The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite has 3 plays.

38. How many CDs do you own of 30?
Panzer AG

No CDs.

39. Is there a song from 38 that makes you mad?
Dimmu Borgir

No, but their songs are fun to be kvlt to. :3

40. Which member from 31 do you want to see go solo? If 31 is only one artist, what would you do if they joined a group?
Emigrate

Well, this fits both criterias! This is Richard Kruspe's solo project, but he's also in Rammstein.

41. What does your favorite song from 3 remind you of?
Lamb of God

All of their songs make me think of angry men.

42. Did you hate 43 at first?
Moonsorrow

Love at first listen. <3

43. Does your best friend also listen to 33?
Manegarm

I don't think so!

44. Do you think your parents would like 37?
R.E.M

Hell yeah! xD

45. Does 47 have a song that makes you want to dance?
Down

No... xD

46. Have you ever seen 34 in person?
Northern Kings

Nope. Well, I've seen Nightwish, which Marco Hietala sings/basses for.

47. Do you like 44's name?
Dope Stars Inc.

I've nothing against it, lol!

48. Is there someone in 45 that you want to go out with?
Nekrogoblikon

Most likely, lol!

49. Do you know anyone that hates 39?
Dimmu Borgir

MANY people.

50. Have you ever danced to a song from 35?
Children of Bodom

Strangely... no.

A review of Evocation I: The Arcane Dominion.

Sun, 5 Apr 2009 13:48:46 +0000

Here we have it, Eluveitie's new project/album/collection/thing: Evocation I: The Arcane Dominion. Taking a radical change from trad celtic metal, they've opted to carry out an idea that's been nagging them for quite some time: an acoustic project.

Since Elu chose to throw caution to the winds and release the whole thing on their Myspace, Evocation has attracted a huge shitload of bad press. Starting from the release of 'Omnos' a month or so ago, claims that Eluveitie taken a leap in a backwards direction have been firing from all sides- just check out the Last.Fm shoutbox. The new album: a disappointing 'pop' folk/rock CD that shows how commercial Eluveitie has become under Nuclear Blast, with the acoustic melodies a shadow of their former glory? Or an album to top all of Eluveitie's previous releases with it's dark ambience, bringing the misty past to life- erasing the need to 'fit in' with other acts? Hell, this is only one guy's opinion- not the be all and end all- but personally... this album isn't as bad as the radical haters make it out to be.

Of course, I first listened to 'Omnos' a fair while back, and my honest opinion was: WHAT THE FUCK. Everything about my first impression of the song can be summed up in this emote: Dx. The use of guitar/gaita combinations to create a modern 'folk-ish' song wasn't the Eluveitie I was used to. Although, I had no idea what to expect from their single. I guess the picture was painted from various songs, such as 'Giamonios' and 'Siraxta'. But I had kept an open mind of my expectations. But listening to 'Omnos', I was scared. The acoustics were weird, the vocals were weird...it just didn't fit.

I kept an open mind. OK, I didn't like it, but maybe it would grow on me. And, like many, Omnos fans, it has. From a love/hate beginning, the little Omnos ditty grew to become a nagging little tune. I came to appreciate Meri's vocals, how they fitted in with the ancient texts. I came to appreciate, that as much as fans want them to be, Eluveitie's image (like many other bands) changes.

They aren't trying to be something. From their honesty and respect for the subject they sing about, shown on their Myspace in the detailed analysis of each song, Eluveitie still surpasses many other bands in the folk/folk metal scene. Eluveitie hasn't- yet- got up their own arses. They post on their own forums, laugh, and discuss their music with such openness that one can only respect them as doing their job properly. And let's hope it stays that way.

But what about the more mundane things in life... what about the fucking music? And more many layman fans of Eluveitie, that's the biggest thing.

Truth be told, what do you want to get out of this album? A mind-blowing acoustic album from a metal band? An acoustic album? A random album your friend suggested? Much like an intricate painting , if you come at it from a different background, with different eyes, different beliefs and thoughts- it's going to seem different to each person. While some people may see a beautiful creation, others will just enjoy it, but not see what the fuss is about. Others won't get it, other's will care more about the meaning behind it, and others will detest it. There's no one right opinion; and for me, that's what I see in the discussion of Evocation.

I can see why people hate it, of course, even though my own beliefs are very different: boring, filler music and unoriginal are some of the arguments that spring to mind. People who expect one thing and are given another are going to judge it on the belief they already had: whether it's greater or less than that. Other will just bypass it as a piece of disappointment and look at something better. All are valid opinions, of course.

But, this is my review. And as I came at this with no expectations of what I might find, I was a blank canvas. This is probably because, in general, I don't listen to a great deal of folk music. Yep, I've admitted that. No, I may not be a genius of the genre, but I can still pass an opinion on the music, and what sounds good for me. I do listen to bands the non-fans of Evocation recommend for some 'real music'. Not a lot: I enjoy Eluveitie more. Why? Because I'm human and I have my own opinion.

What Eluveitie does with Evocation is something other folk metal bands have failed to do, and what people claim them to not have done. Be original. Many folk metal bands have fallen into the inevitable trap of all sounding the same. Even on their acoustic albums! Whether you love it or hate it, Evocation (to my knowledge) doesn't sound like any other folk I've heard. It's... weirder. Fresher. It uses instruments other folk metal bands wouldn't necessarily use on an acoustic piece: acoustic guitars, and quite a lot of them. Modern drumming. Vocals some people would describe as shit. Eluveitie have stopped trying to be so 'true' folk in their initial style, that they have been able to capture the essence of the music. In avoiding the high-horse, they've managed to bring something many folk bands fail to do. Emotion. Granted, there are many other, brilliant folk metal bands, with albums that surpass Evocation with flying colours. But Evocation, undeniably, achieves major sucess on making the listener feel the music.

But again, that's if you're looking for emotion in your music. If you want a mind-blowing acoustic album, I'm told Two Tragedy Poets by Elvenking is rather good. (I still have yet to check that out!) If you want flawless musical ability, I'm sure other bands are able to assist you. In my opinion, Eluveitie's pretty DAMN good on the acoustic side of things. Very, very good. Not just in making nice sounds, but fitting the music with the lyrics, vibe and song itself. So, you already know where I stand on one point: the music on Evocation is GOOD.

Now, onto a lowdown of the album itself. As one listens to the album, you quickly notice this is not like the Eluveitie you once knew. Before, patriotic, yet upbeat and 'dancey' music was ever-present in such tracks like 'Inis Mona', my all-time favourite 'Tegernako' and other headbangingly great tracks. Now, Eluveitie's delved into the dark underworld of ancient Helvetians. This is clear as you learn what that name of the first track means: something evil inside which looks holy on the outside. Sobering. As such is the case, Evocation offers little in the way of dance inspiring tunes (although when it does, they offer a welcome relief to the dark, opressive vibe of the other tracks). Some of the tracks for a more lay by listener to choose are 'Brictom', sinle 'Omnos', 'The Cauldrom of Renascence' (which is a frustratingly short 2 minutes long) and 'Memento' (which Chrigel promises they'll play live).

Evocation opens on the stark, evil-vibed 'Sacrapos: At First Glance'. This instrumental track, with a hurdy-gurdy sounding like a funeral dirge, is presided over by a mean, growly Alan from Primordial, speaking about a treacherous young girl sitting by the firelight. But it isn't cheesy. It's just enough to keep you on tenterhooks for the next track. And it's downright unnerving. Of course, a welcome relief from this is the second released song 'Brictom'. On this track, Eluveitie still shows they have the capability of keeping a track haunting you for a day or two, or getting you dancing stupidly. Meri and Anna's voices on this song are stunning, again, fitting the lyrics; about female magic. Following on from this upbeat song, we are again plunged into a mysterious ancient world, in the next piece- filler, A Girl's Oath. As a linguist, I admire this track for the flawless pronunciation, and ability to cast the listener back into another age. Something of their album 'Spirit' has been recaptured, which was not present on 'Slania'. A direct connection with the era they sing about, and the culture of the time. Even moreso, I feel with Evocation.
Next track is a mysterious, dangerous little piece. Behind the upbeat flutework, one hears the rumble of a darker-toned instrument, and the sounds of open forest, drawing the listener in. In this piece, Eluveitie's knack for creating ambience is showcased. As the dark scenery continues to unfold, a dingy little dance number starts out, suddenly exploding into Chrigel screaming into the wild, in an explosion of hurdy-gurdy and gaita. A fitting tribute for this eerie, mystical track is it's place in the album title. Rather like the last piece is 'Within the Gorve', yet far more hypnotic. A simple piece, yet delicate- and when you look at it closer, beaitufil in it's crafting. Not so much evil as ensnaring (yes, I know I'm starting to sound like a wine critic- bear with me).
Now it comes to peoples' favourite, 'The Cauldron of Renascence'. While Chrigel has a very warped idea of what 'fits' to the lyrics (the Cauldron is a place where a mythical beast drops slain foes in battle, or something), who cares this time around? Beasts can dance, too.
But this isn't my favourite piece. That honour belongs to the next piece. No words have I to describe the opus that is 'Nata'. Just- wow. Grab a pair of headphones, turn this up loud, and I challenge you not to wonder at the music, or a shiver not to run up your spine.
Another favourite track is 'Dessumiiss Luge', in my opinion, the most evil track of the bunch. No wonder- it's an ancient Helvetian curse, ending in a wild scream. Sliding on nicely from this is the wonderfully cute track 'Gobanno', another favourite of mine. Screw favourites- I love this album. Throughout the tracks, I've wondered how Eluveitie manages to make this hardened fan really 'feel' something. Answer? Back to basics.

I haven't covered all tracks- those are yours to discover. But be warned, this is somewhat of a Marmite album.

A Tuomas-based reality check for fangirls of the Nightwish-kind

Wed, 1 Apr 2009 18:33:25 +0000

[RANT]

Writing a rant like this has been growing on me for quite a while now. The hate (well, no, not hate... sod it, yes- HATE) for obsessive fangirls reached boiling point a while back, ever since my last Nightwish gig and post-gig root around the Official Forums. Methinks the majority of Tuomas fangirls need a baseline reality check. Or a good slap in the face and forced listening to music OTHER than Nightwish. Hear ye, ladies, and heed this!

1. Tuomas's water bottle does NOT hold magic powers. Nor does his towel/sweat/hair. YES! You caught the skanky £1.50 Evian bottle that he drunk out of! What... you want a gold sticker?

2. Tuomas is fundamentally a pretentious twat of a lyricist, in the nicest sense. Accept that, and you'll either love him or hate him for it. And his name is TUOMAS. He is not a poet, a dead boy, a composer, an ocean soul, a wanderer, dreamer, or any other fucking adverbs!

3. You are NOT special. When you caught Tuomas's eye at that gig, even when you mouthed the words at him and he noticed, he's had it a thousand times before by other teenage lovers, 365 days a year in a myriad of places. A nod and appreciative smile does not necessarily mean marriage is on the cards, culminating in a long and happy life together and a shared room in the old peoples' home.

4. Writing a letter to him is a nice GESTURE. Whether or not he rolls his eyes in disgust at the annoying, sad, fangirlish blubbering inside it is another matter.

5. Tuomas is not God* (for further reference, see point 2). His music does not hold the meaning to life, nor does it need to be worshipped. This includes screaming at him, crying copiously over songs because they're 'so beautiful!!!111!' and going into a hyperactive frenzy at gigs when the covers are taken off the keyboard.

[/RANT]

Apart from that, Tuomas admirers, everything's PEACHY!
Just don't let them girls anywhere NEAR me.

*Def. of 'God', see 'Marco Hietala'.

Concert Meme!

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 15:27:56 +0000

What was the last concert you attended?
Nightwish, PAIN and Indica at the Brixton Academy.

How many people were there?
... Oden only knows!!!! X'D A fucking LOT!

What bands have you seen in concert the most, and how many times?
I'm a noob- Amon Amarth, and twice. D'x

Do you have any set lists? From what bands?
Nope, but I do have a pick from Johan Soederberg from Amon Amarth. Somewhere in my room... >.>

Are there any CDs in close proximity to you? Which ones?
CDs on my iPod. It would take far too long to list them all. Currently I'm on the Omnos single by Eluveitie.

What band are you in the mood to see live right this second?
Too many! Though if I had to choose one, it would be Korpiklaani, as I really want to see them live!!

Have you ever been on a tour bus?
Not yet, but I've been outside Primordial's, as Mick was drunkenly trying to wake up Tundra from Finntroll. Oden knows what he was doing in Primordial's tourbus! x'P

Have you ever partied with a band?
I couldn't be arsed to wait for Finntroll to finish their shower! xP Though my mother had drinks with Tundra. I suppose that doesn't really count though... :P

How many states/provinces have you been to concerts in?
I've been over to Germany for a festival.

What bands did you see live the month of May?
May? Last May? This May? I have a terrible memory, so can't remember last year- but this May I'm up for seeing Týr and Alestorm, and maybe Combichrist.

What CD are you addicted to at the moment?
Eluveitie's new Omnos single. <3 Masterful.

Who is one band that you used to like, but now you can't stand?
None, really. My liking for bands change, but there's none which I can't stand.

Have you ever been on anyone's guest list? Who's?
Was going to be put onto the guestlist for Heidenfest in Frankfurt, but Mick was plastered (at around 10 in the morning!). And consequently forgot. Hairy bastard. <3

Last band person that you got a picture with?
I always forget my camera! :P Memories suffice though.

Do you consider yourself a groupie?
Haha, no. I may get over excited about certain bands, and go to great lengths to see/meet them, but I'm definitely not a groupie. Or am I... xP I don't think many bands would appreciate a hyper, camp male groupie though.

If you were to name a boy and a girl after any band....what would you name them?
... Just no.

How old were you when you went to your first concert?
15 methinks.

Who was it?
Marilyn Manson

What bands haven't you seen yet that you want to see?
Korpiklaani, Tarot (I SHALL see them before I die!), Elvenking, Battlelore, Moonsorrow, Seasick Steve, Dethklok (no hope for that one, but it would still be awesome!), Rammstein( tour '10?), Satyricon.

Are you wearing a band shirt right now?
Nope, but I have a few.

What band do you own the most merch of?
Finntroll.

What song is on your myspace right now?
Don't have Myspace.

Have you ever met that band?
See above.

Do you ever do anything crazy at shows?
Nah, not really. I'm usually pushed tight up against the barrier. xP I do scream out '(insert bandmember's name here) I LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!' a few times, if appropriate, heheh.

What are your favorite venues to go to shows at?
R.I.P the Astoria. I don't mind the venue; just the sound has to be good, and the barrier not MILES away from the stage. The Batschkapp in Frankfurt was amazing! :3

What band do you have the most performance pictures of?
Nightwish

Would you ever get a tattoo representing a band?
Maybe. I'd never say never.

How many concerts do you visit average a year?
Uh... when I have the cash! :P

Upcoming shows?
Týr, Alestorm and Middenheim; MAYBE Stratovarius; MAYBE Combichrist; HOPEFULLY Paganfest Europe.

DeviantArt bitch: Uh-oh. Someone got out of bed on the wrong side.

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 10:12:53 +0000

It seems ex-Eluveitie bassist Rafi Kirdir's sanity is slowly being eaten away at by obsessive, yet well-meaning, Eluveitie fans. The cons of having a social networking site when you're a famous folk metal bassist. A recent DeviantArt (that's rkharper.deviantart.com, if anyone wants to stalk him) grumble from him:

[cringingly obsessive, yet well-meaning, fan who doesn't know Rafi left Elu]
AAAAAAHHHH. I LOVE YOU.
I HOPE TO SEE YOU LIVE ON APRIL 29 IN MONTREAL. YOU GUYS ARE AWESOME D

I can only assume he's talk about Elu, even though there isn't a show on their page. I guess he's gonna get a shock at Paganfest, eh?

Cue Rafi, who missed his naptime.

[Rafi, who missed his naptime]
dude!!!

I LEFT this shit band 7 months ago!!!

Uh-oh. Now, now, Rafi. Unless Red Shamrock produces ANYTHING close to what Eluveitie has and does, I don't think you can call any band shit. *Ahem*. But seriously, if you don't want rabid fans chasing you, for Oden's sweet sake dear, there are a few simple steps you can take to isolate yourself from the monstrosity that is Eluveitie. Put a fucking journal up, with a caps-locked title 'I LEFT FUCKING ELUVEITIE'. Next, take down all your art relating to Eluveitie. Yes, the main photo of you as Eluveitie's bassist doesn't help matters. There, now fans who may want to post comments can see- no! you LEFT Eluveitie! Months ago! Now if any fans have a fanboy-splurge at you, you have a valid reason to bitch at them.

And for Oden's sake, learn how to count. Unless we're talking about another band here, in which case my bitch is redundant: if you said on another comment in OCTOBER that you left Elu FIVE months ago...

If anyone wants to bitch back at me, feel free, but bear in mind: I love Rafi dear, Red Shammy and Eluveitie. LOTS AND LOTS.