FESTIVAL REVIEW: Bloodstock Open Air Part 2 – Live at Catton Hall


 

SATURDAY:

After I visit the bust of Lemmy in the RAM Gallery, Brazilian death metallers Crypta are in full flow on the main stage, tearing through the likes of Lift the Blindfold” and “From the Ashes”, casually stripping away any vestiges of third-day fatigue. And if that wasn’t the perfect wake-up call, then there”s always Bay Area thrashers Forbidden who blast through the likes of “Forbidden Evil,” “Twisted Into Form,” and “Step By Step” aided by summer recruit Dan “Chewy” Mongrain of Voivod. A great show, although a time overrun means we are deprived of the classic “Chalice of Blood.”Continue reading


Dan “Chewy” Mongrain of Voivod on The “Ultraman” EP,  Touring with Opeth, and Prog


 

We chatted late in 2022 with Dan “Chewy” Mongrain of  Voivod! The band had a tremendous year in 2022, with a full-length release “Synchro Anarchy” and a new EP “Ultraman” as well. The band also toured with Opeth  as well as their own headline dates. We discussed the “Ultraman” project, his love for the series, his first-ever lead vocal performance, his appreciation of Japanese fans, some music he has been digging in 2022 such as Child Bite,  and Pat Metheny, and future plans for the band!     

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Voivod – The Wake


One of the challenges for any band is the creation of a signature sound; that all-important, defining quality which will make them instantly recognizable above all others. The fact that Canadian proggers Voivod have changed their style so many times over the years (they have been labeled Thrash, Speed, Industrial, Sci-fi, and even Nuclear Metal) yet have always managed to retain their unique identity, is a laudable achievement.Continue reading