CONCERT REVIEW: Orbit Culture – Repentance Live at The Magic Stick


It started out as a quiet Monday evening in Midtown Detroit last week, but the show happening at The Magic Stick was going to change all that. The snug, swanky second-floor spot is a former bowling alley that provides an intimate space to catch some of the best, up-and-coming bands out there. So having Swedish stars, Orbit Culture headline at this cozy hall made a lot of sense.  The Extreme, Modern Metal darlings are currently opening on a few dates for the “Here Comes the Pain” tour with the legendary Slipknot. When they are not crushing it in arenas playing for maggots, they are making their own headlining appearances. They brought along Chicago’s Repentance with them to Detroit and the night was about to get very loud.

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CONCERT REVIEW: Lamb of God – Mastodon – Kerry King – Malevolence Live at the Kia Forum 


It’s August 2004 and two legendary hitters in the heavy metal kingdom just released two iconic albums; Leviathan by Mastodon and Ashes of the Wake by Lamb of God on the same day. Fast forward 20 years and these two legends are joining forces to perform each respective album to an insanely amped Los Angeles crowd while on a joint headlining North American tour, “Ashes of Leviathan.” Continue reading


CONCERT REVIEW: In Flames – Gatecreeper – Creeping Death at Saint Andrews Hall


Spring is here and the warmer weather has numerous bands hitting the road. A multitude of metal acts have made their way to Motor City and the locals are pleased as punch to have them. The Swedish darlings, In Flames graced Detroit with their presence last week. This notorious act has been on a month-long headlining trek and they brought along the mighty Gatecreeper, plus Creeping Death with them. Saint Andrews Hall is a venue known for their affection towards heavier acts and were ready to host the considerable commotion this tour would cause.Continue reading


ALBUM REVIEW: Unleash The Archers – Phantoma


Unleash the Archers is a band that reliably produces songs that are unconventional and wildly exciting. This Canadian Power Metal act has broken barriers in the genre by their dauntless divergences, hearty songwriting, and overall efficacious passion. The quintet is preparing to release their sixth full-length album, Phantoma (Napalm Records), which elevates their innovative skills and strengths to new heights.

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ALBUM REVIEW: Sonata Arctica – Clear Cold Beyond


Finland is reported to be one of the happiest countries in the world. Even though it can produce some fantastically grim Metal acts, this Nordic nation has some jubilant bands as well. Continue reading


ALBUM REVIEW: Infected Rain – Time


Breaking away from the pack of Modern Metal bands, Infected Rain is fulfilling their promise as one of the the best underground buzz bands of the new millennium. Their new album Time (Napalm Records) goes super hard, but more importantly, showcases their maturity as writers, riff dealers, and how to make every song stand on its own. It’s rare to get to see a label trust a band to follow their muse and really grow and change from album to album.  Continue reading


ALBUMS OF THE YEAR: STAFF PICKS – Steve Tovey’s Top Albums of 2023


As we barrel down towards the end of the year, we are sharing End of Year lists from staff, bands, and some friends in the business. Check out our Senior Editor Steve Tovey’s picks for his Top Albums of 2023!Continue reading


EP REVIEW: Spiritbox – The Fear Of Fear


 

Spiritbox have seemingly been effortlessly surfing the a crest of a wave since their debut album Eternal Blue blew up back in 2021, and have enjoyed a whirlwind couple of years since hitting millions of streams and views on Spotify and YouTube, while playing some huge festival shows and hitting the road with the likes of Lamb of God, Killswitch Engage, Ghost and Bring Me The HorizonContinue reading


CONCERT REVIEW: Avatar – Orbit Culture – The Native Howl Live at The Intersection


The streets of Grand Rapids were buzzing with Friday night festivities when a long line started to form outside one of the city’s favorite music venues. The lengthy queue of matching black hoodies at the Intersection moved along nicely so that the early arrivals were able to catch the opening act. Everyone was in a jovial mood and heartily cheered because the Swedish metallers, Avatar had brought their Chimp Mosh Pit Tour to town. With support from fellow countrymen, Orbit Culture and Michigan’s own The Native Howl. The bill contained varied acts with each one delightfully heavy in their own way which made for a thrilling evening ahead.  Continue reading