BELOW THE RUINS

Here is the third version of the “Below the Ruins” video. Initially, the first version was hastily thrown together. Mainly it was just to have something extra on a DVD promo. That version was a compilation of home videos of cathedrals.
Unsatisfied, I put together a second version. I added footage from the Christopher Lee classic film Horror Hotel (which is in public domain). Anyone who has seen the film knows what a great, creepy atmosphere it has. For that reason, it is one of my favorite films. Years ago, Iron Maiden also used clips from the movie in their “Bring your Daughter to the Slaughter” video. So my idea of using it was not original, but none the less I had the urge to do it.
Finally, I decided to re-edit it again with shots of the band playing. In this final version, I feel the true essence is present. The visual properly represents the song’s slow, brooding style.

Encore Records: R.I.P.

This is somewhat old news, but it still enrages me: Encore Records closing its doors! Absolutely terrible news! I feel as if one of my favorite relatives has just been executed. Over the years my many trips to Austin always included the mandatory stop at Encore. This place has…well HAD a phenomenal metal section. A two hour minimum was always required in going through their stock. For me, Austin will never be the same.


http://www.austinchronicle.com/blogs/music/2011-12-16/encore-records-closing/

Brimwylf - Studio Report

Here is a short piece documenting Brimwylf's (formerly Iapetus) recent studio sessions. Also a preview of the bonus DVD that will be included with the first issue of the FERAL NOISE zine.

Rites of Darkness

This past weekend, I took a journey to San Antonio for the Rites Of Darkness Fest. In the days leading up to the show, there were many cancellations and questions about the event. I am not sure of all the details regarding that and honestly don’t really care. My only concern was that the show actually took place. With all the drama aside, I must say it was a great time. Everything was handled professionally, the sound was perfect and all the bands present were great.
For me the highlight of the entire gig was Chicago’s Cianide. Seeing them live was quite special for me. Ever since hearing their debut Grindcore Records release, The Dying Truth, I have followed them. They finally came to Texas. After many years of waiting, I was not disappointed. They performed a variety of tracks taken from their respectable discography. Although it was a full set, I preferred they played another hour.

Midnight, one of my other favorites, played a great set. Actually I think they stole the show. Black Witchery also delivered during their stage time of spreading sickness. Houston luminaries PLF and Blaspherian brought the intensity to reinforce their already known reputations. All the bands were great, but I am not going to review everyone of them. Anyone who was there knows exactly what I am talking about.
A comical highlight was the actions of an extremely intoxicated Neanderthal man. Apparently, the guy had way too much to drink at the gig. Outside, as the rain poured down, he was on his hands and knees puking his brains out while the seat of his pants was completely saturated with gobs of shit. The amount of shit on his pants looked like enough to come from three people. I thought GG Allin was dead? Some concerned concert attendees tried to help the man to his feet, but his response was, “Get the fuck away from me bitch. Hail fucking Satan!” The drunken yeti clumsily jumped to his feet, took off running sideways as more vomit poured out of his mouth, then slammed into a concrete wall. Not sure who he was, but I definitely sympathize for him…but also thank him for providing the entertainment.
Of course there was a massive amount of vendors present. I picked up quite a few CDs, most were good choices. However there were a few disappointments. I used the old 80s approach in buying music, look for unknown releases with interesting covers. Unfortunately I got raped on a couple of them. But no big deal, I will just add them to my under the bed collection of shitty CDs.

Humut Tabal "Ode To Misanthropy - This I Swear" Promo Video

Finally after hours of editing, here is the Humut Tabal promo video for the song "Ode To Misanthropy - This I Swear." This is a preview of what to expect on the bonus DVD of the upcoming debut issue of FERAL NOISE. This song was taken off the Humut Tabal / Plutonian Shore split EP released by Dread Lair.

Feral Noise Issue #1 - Coming Feb. 2012!

The best toilet side reading material you will find. The digital media age is upon us, but the DIY printed zine format will never be dissolved. Feral Noise is an independent publication that focuses on all forms of extreme music: Black, Death, Grind and Noise.

This debut issue features: Bound in Flesh, Iapetus, Spectral Manifest, Plutonian Shore, Humut Tabal and more!
Also included will be a bonus DVD filled with promos, live footage and interviews.

Iapetus - rehearsal update

Recently I traveled to the Rhythm Room to watch local band Iapetus take part in a rehearsal. They recently made some internal changes and wrote a handful of new songs. So I was extremely interested to hear what they have been working on. Needless to say, I was pretty damn impressed. They combined the raw simplicity of early Bathory with some really cool melodies. Definitely a first wave of black metal style mixed with a traditional rock approach.

I was a fan of their earlier material, but the new outlook helped them rise to another level. The songs alternated quite a bit between tempo changes. While listening I was envisioning the songs in a live setting and seeing the crowd going off to the catchy riffs. Each song was memorable and not just a blur of noise. That is a key element in a black metal band. No one, well at least I don’t, wants to listen to a band that sounds as if they are playing the same song over and over. That can become boring in a short period of time.

I was delighted to be informed that Iapetus will be recording in a studio soon. Their debut demo will definitely be something to look forward to. I feel this band has great chemistry and sure it will reflect in the studio.
For the practice, I planned to bring my video camera for some footage. I had it all packed, charged and ready to go. Right before leaving I watched the UFC fight Velasquez vs. Dos Santos. Upon its conclusion I raced out the door….without the video camera. That mistake really angers me, because I really wish there was some footage to include here. Well that will have to wait for next time.
As for their rehearsal, it was complete a little before 11 pm. In theory I had planned to arrive back at home before midnight. Well that did not happen. We talked outside the practice space until about 2 am. Very important topics were being discussed such as Charles Bronson’s filmography and zombie movies. Those are two imperative things in my life.

***Update - Iapetus will begin their studio sessions today. When complete, expect a full report.