Iron Maiden - The Final FrontierAnyone who knows me knows that I really like this band. I have all of their studio albums and nearly all of their live albums on CD and hope to change that fact shortly. This is their newest release, their first studio album in 4 years, the longest time between records in their extensive 30 year career. Though I enjoy nearly all of Iron Maiden's material, there are those that are certainly better than the others. "Iron Maiden" and "Killers" were good, but "Number of the Beast", "Piece of Mind" and "Powerslave" blew them away. Whereas "Somewhere in Time" was alright, I absolutely loved "Seventh Son of a Seventh Son". After a few below par albums by their standards, they came back with "Brave New World" in 2000 which would probably be my all time favourite. Though I didn't mind their 13th and 14th albums, I have to say that this is their best since Brave. The intro starts out somewhat different to what you'd expect from the mighty Maiden, but it's pretty good nonetheless, opening into a pretty classic sounding track, the namesake of the album. El Dorado, the track previously released as a single, I believe, is the weakest on the album but from there onwards the album gets better and better. The song's are their longest yet, and possess that Maiden charm, though appearing more progressive than they are known for. Some of the last few tracks, including Starblind and the final When The Wild Wind Blows, would probably even make it into my personal 'best of...' list. On top of this new CD, they're also touring Australia next February, appearing at both Soundwave and at a sideshow. I already have my ticket to the sideshow and definately plan on attending Soundwave, to finally see one of my absolute favourite bands live after missing out in 2008. Though they've copped a lot of crap about the artwork, it's definately an improvement on some of the few in the last 15 years or so.
Kvelertak - KvelertakThis is the debut album from Norweigan native's Kvelertak, combining a whirlwind of different genres. This is currently the only album in iTunes I have that doesn't have a genre associated with it; it's just that damn hard to classify. The best description I can give you is it falls somewhere between, taking elements and strong influences from, black metal, hardcore punk and classic rock and roll. Though their lyrics are all in their native language, apparently they draw themes from Norse mythology and viking folklore. The album is catchy as hell, and, being their debut, I really can't wait to see what they come up with in the future. I know I've said it before (mainly because I only post stuff that I really enjoy), but this will definately be in my top albums for this year. Interesting artwork too.
Miles Away - Endless RoadsThis is the new release from Australian hardcore giants, and favourites, Miles Away. As continues to be evident with this release, it's nigh impossible for this band to do anything wrong. From their EP, to their self titled debut, full lengths "Consequences" and "Rewind, Repeat" and the couple of 7" releases sprinkled throughout, all of them have been hits and enjoyed quite a bit by myself. Endless Roads, their new full length, is no exception. Again, they've created something melodic and catchy without making you feel like a fruit singing along, due to the retention of the classic hardcore element. My highlight is Anywhere which is probably my new favourite Miles Away song, though some of the others are brilliant aswell. If I had to complain, it would be about the fact that the album totals up to a mere 25 minutes, but that's pretty common practise within the genre and no biggie. They're touring in support of the album next month, I believe.