Gallows: ‘Last June’ Review

Article By Dee

Fans of Hertfordshire based band, Gallows will be happy to hear that these fantastic guys have released their latest music video – ‘Last June’. When I checked it out, words could not describe just how superb I found this video and the song itself. ‘Last June’ is a music video full of extreme hyperness, excitement and energy just like the band themselves.

Despite being familiar with Gallows for quite some time, I must confess and hang my head in shame for not following there work over the past few months…however by just listening and watching ‘Last June’ made me realise just how these guys not just create a buzz and vibe in the listener, but they remind me just how punk rock should be.

In terms of the video itself, there are two dimensions to it. On one side you have footage of riots taking place, with the police in their riot gear and ready for action. Then on the otherside you have the Gallows and their many fans at a gig – doing what they do best – kicking ass to some insane music. In some sense just watching the video unleashed the rebellious, wild Darkus that some of my readers know, because even though I was watching a music video, I could nevertheless feel the immense energy, as though I was part of the crowd that Gallows were playing too.

The fun does not stop at Last June, because the band have announced that through their own record label, Venn Records they will be unleashing their self titled album 10^th September 2012. If that is not good enough, things get better as they embark on a UK tour in October guaranteed to blown ya mind and leave you thinking to yourself – “feck me what just happened”.

Gallows are really going from strength to strength as a band, and each any everytime I hear them be it on CD, Music Video or A live show, I just feel like standing up, cranking the volume up and going crazzzzy!

Last June is definitely worth checking out as well, so be sure to go over to www.gallows.co.uk to find out how you can get a free download.

Gallows: October 2012 – Coming to A City Near You!!!

Wed 3^rd The HauntBrighton

Thu 4^th The CavernExeter

Fri 5^th The FleeceBristol

Sat 6^th Club Academy Manchester

Mon 8^th Academy 2Newcastle

Tue 9^th King Tut’sGlasgow

Thu 11^th RockCity BasementNottingham

Fri 12^th CorporationSheffield

Sat 13^th Sugarmill Stoke

Sun 14^th Central Station Wrexham

Mon 15^th CockpitLeeds

Tue 16^th Club RevolutionPeterborough

Wed 17^th Academy 2Birmingham

Fri 19^th UnderworldLondon

We Have Moved!!!

Thanks for checking Darkus Magazine

Out…..Just to let you know though that we

can now be located on

www.darkusmagazine.co.uk

Thank You for You Support

Luf Dee xxxx

Asking Alexandria: Reckless and Relentless

Article by Dee

People often ask me what kind of music I am into, and the truth of the matter is I listen to a variety of genres. Although I may be a pop-punk fanatic at heart, many of my readers will also agree I am never one to turn down a good moshing session down to something on the heavier side. In all honest it unleashes the wild Sir Dee – a person full of hyperness and randomness – Wahoo!

 Anyways back to the matter at hand. There are many great bands that have made me want to mosh till my legs fall off – however one I have been listening to more of most recently is the legends that are Asking Alexandria. I last saw these guys (for the first time as well) at Newcastle’s O2 Academy when they were supported by the likes of Chelsea Grin and With One Last Breath. Before seeing them live, I already had high expectations, but my word the January 2012 performance just left me stunned. Knowing that these brilliant masters of new music are coming back for a 2013 tour, I asked my good friends at Sumerian Records to send me some more insane AA material to check out. It’s a good thing I did because if I didn’t I would not of discovered the greatest album I have heard in quite some time – Reckless and Relentless!

 Damn where on earth do I start with this album – it is a totally strong, mind-blowing piece of work that not did I just want to review it, as I normally do but I wanted to go crazy as though Asking Alexandria were in the room with me. Probably the track which had me going wild in an instant was ‘Dear Insanity’. A well balanced song, which combines meaningful lyrics, a pace which gets the adrenaline pumping and to give it that extra bit of oomph – the fantastic screamo talent that Asking Alexandria which give all material this band creates the perfect identity!

 All the songs on this album should be approached only by those that are prepared to let the music consume their soul and embrace what they are listening to in a way that they loose control of their senses and just have a fecking good time. Each song on the Reckless and Relentless album has its own level of energy and style – but they all give the listener a unique adrenaline rush – a rush for me that is definitely different to any other artist I have listened to in their genre.

 Another song which made me think “feck me this is good stuff” was ‘Someone, Somewhere’. The reason why is yes Asking Alexandria have brilliant screamo skills, but they also have stunning vocals when they just use their normal voices. This makes the track delicate and gentle while at the same time not taking away the powerful talent the guys always seem to maintain in everything that they do.

 Reckless and Relentless ends with the track ‘Morte et Dabo’. Wow! This song is just an insane cocktail of all the things that make Asking Alexandria a band that takes your adrenaline levels to a whole new place! Morte et Dabo is the perfect end to what is an exceptional album because when it comes to an end it leaves you thinking “woah what just happened there, I cant here what you do next Asking Alexandria!

 The band will be back in 2013 with the most spectacular UK tour – a great way to start the New Year! I don’t know about anyone else, but I really can’t wait!!!

http://www.askingalexandriaofficial.com/

 

Eva Abraham: Cold Light Review

 

Article By Dee

 The team at Caravan have been busy recommending Darkus Magazine many amazing artists’ to check out. One of their recent signings, who also happened to take my breath away, was Eva Abraham. As many know female solo artists are like gold dust especially in such a male dominated industry, so when I hear of a female making her mark, Darkus is always happy to support a women’s presence in the music industry.

 The track which captivated me, due to the beauty of Eva’s voice was ‘Cold Light’. It’s quite a chilled out song, with a pace that just relaxes the listener. Just listening to this song made me feel butterflies inside me because it is so elegantly done. The lyrics are deep and meaningful as well, so when you listen careful to the words you don’t just warm to Eva, but it is as though you feel a real connection to the music as well.

 Cold Light is taken from Eva’s upcoming Cold Light Experiences which is released this September via Hamworth Music. With a mix of flavours from folk, gypsy, country, ska, cumbia, blues and jazz, it is said to be something special, especially if the song I just listened to is anything to go by.

 When doing some background research into Eva and her music it made me smile even more to hear that she described The Cold Light Experiences as the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter. If you want music that is soulful, elegant and a breath of fresh air – this is definitely the one for you.

 www.evaabraham.com

www.hamworthmusic.com

Burning Crows

Article By Dee

British rock and roll music does not get any better than The Burning Crows. I am always passionate about the local music scene, so it came as an actual delight when the guys got in touch with Darkus Magazine, and asked if I could take some time out to check out their music.

 Often when people do something like that, I approach with a open mind, so as Burning Crows were new to me, I went in with the same attitude. Sure I could of gone on to their Facebook and checked out a lot of their tracks, however as a new potential fan, I set the guys the task of picking me some of their favourites that they believed would convert me in an instant. Feck Me! Not only did they rise to the challenge, but they gave me tracks guaranteed to liven up anyone’s mind.

 ‘Best Damn Everything’ has to be one of the best songs from a local band I have heard in the past few weeks. Its old fashion rock and roll but a touch of fresh air, thus taking it to the next level. People often speak about legends such as Guns and Roses and Kiss. While those artists may be top class, Burning Crows really shine in this track. A steady yet energetic pace to the track had me sitting in my chair bopping my head up and down as I typed away. Although focused on work at the time, I could just imagine myself having a quick break to not just dance but get out the air guitar to the amazing skill and talent Burning Crows have.

 This is only the first track I listened to so what about some of the others? ‘Time’ – wow what a song! This track is brilliantly constructed because as well as the fantastic beats, its presented in a way that allows a listener to focus carefully on the thing which make this song beautiful – the lyrics! 2 songs down and I think not only was I past being converted, I was starting to think what to wear if ever I was lucky to see these guys perform.

 My ultimate favourite track from Burning Crows which got me on my feet in a flash, and encouraged me to just go wild and jump with hyperness on my bed was ‘Slow Up, Get Down’. This was just the right song which regardless of your mood, is guaranteed to get you in the party spirit and liven up your day. I think I may of annoyed the neighbours by singing Slow Up Get Down in a loud voice haha – but to hell with it I just loved this song but the only way to deal with critical people is to crank up the volume!

 The speaker levels went up even higher once, ‘You, Me, Tonight’ came on. This is a definite party song, full of stunning vocals, plenty of attitude and beats to make you go wild with excitement.

 Burning Crows have definitely impressed me a lot, and what is best is that they bring an energy to the music scene, that if they maintain will result in them achieving many great opportunities.

 Burning Crows you have the Darkus seal of approval! Keep up the Good Work!!

 The band will be touring in September so be sure to check them out at one of their shows:

 September 1^st –Norwich, Waterfront

September 2^nd –Wolverhampton, Slade Rooms

September 3^rd –London, Borderline

September 5^th –Sheffield, Corporation

September 6^th –Newcastle, Trillians

September 7^th –Glasgow, Cathouse

September 8^th –Belfast, Auntie Annie’s

September 9^th –Dublin, Academy 2

September 11^th –Cardiff, Bogiez

September 12^th,Nottingham, Bodega

 www.theburningcrows.com

Design The Skyline: ‘Break Free From Your Life’ Video Review

Article By Dee

 Design The Skyline are back doing what they do their best, creating first class amazing music. The team at Victory informed me about their music video, ‘Break Free From Your Life’, therefore being a fan of their material it was important that I checked out the video for my self.

 Listening and watching the fantastic material took me back to bands such as Silverstein, another Victory band who helped me in my journey to alternative music in my university days. Design The Skyline are similar to them, however they also have their own unique twist and edge which makes them stand out.

 In terms of the song itself, the lyrics are deep and go nicely with the fast catchy beat. I just wanted to mosh non stop to this. Lord knows how many times I pressed the replay button on this video. I ask many bands I come across the song that gets their adrenaline pumping. From a listener point of view ‘Break Free From Your Life’ is a definite contender for me.

 What about the video itself then? Unlike other videos you see there are no gimmicks, which some artists try to use to distract the attention from the music. This video is simple and straight to the point which I like because it shows what makes Design The Skyline a fantastic up and coming band – the energy, passion and commitment from all members of the band which make them a pleasure not just to listen to but watch as well.

 Your probably wondering to yourself when you can see this brilliant up and coming new band. If you happen to be in the USAduring August you can catch them on their headline tour supported by friends Amyst and Silence the Messenger. If you are not that fortunate however never fear because you can still be part of the Design The Skyline experience by getting your hands on their most recent album Nevaeh, which is available in all good stores now !

 To find out more information about Design The Skyline and other brilliant artists part of the Victory family, head over to www.victoryrecords.com

Robert Hood: A Master Of Creativity And Imagination!

 

Article By Dee

Prepare to be amazed when I tell you that Artist Robert Hood is back in the music industry with his fantastic new album, Motor: Nighttime World 3. Released in September 2012, through the label Music Man – I believe this masterpiece to be a great start to Autumn.

 I was completely breath taken when my friends at EPM sent me this brilliant album to check out. What Hood does with this album is that he takes an every day item, in this case a motor vehicle, and uses it as a concept to create some pretty impressive beats and grooves. I totally respect this guy for his ability to bring imagination and in a way an art of creativity to the world of music.

 The album starts with the delicate yet moving, Exodus. It is a very lovely introduction to the album, as from an instant it takes the listener into the world of Robert Hood, as he sees it. With an album title “Motor: Nighttime World 3” you can just imagine how this is music where you can imagine a busy city calming down at night. It the case of Robert Hood, he based much of the idea onDetroit.

 My favourite track on this album has to be, ‘Hate Transmissions’. The beat and pace of this piece of music are unreal. For me, it was one that as I listened I could really feel consuming my soul, sending a chilling yet exciting sensation down my spine. The sophisticated sounds and vibe this album creates for the listener is one which gives you a sudden rush of adrenaline, with each track blowing your mind due to the uniqueness.

 Taking his talent to the masses, Robert Hood has started a World Tour, which started 6^th July 2012 inSpain and finishing in November inSydney,Australia. Although theUK may not be part of his tour, if you happen to be inEurope over the next few months you must definitely go and check this fantastic artist out.

 The album is released 17^th September 2012 – so make sure you make the time to check this stunning artist and his music out.

Robert Hood Facebook page

Competition Numero Uno!

Greetings Dudes and Dudettes

Its time for the question for the first Darkus Competition.

*** Please note for the time being this competition is only open for anyone in the North East. The good news however is all future comps will be applicable to everyone 😀 ****

The rules are simple – 50p an entry nothing more! In return you get a raffle strip and the draw held on Sunday at the Green. Raffle strip also available from me today and tomorrow at the green 🙂

So whats the first prize up for grabs?? An Official Ghost Fest Goodybag with Stickers, Your Demise Merch & even a Ghost Fest Tee.

As I have been busy with the Ghost Fest  I thought I would base the question on something that came up when I was interviewing some of the bands.

Question: I asked Davyd Winter Bates (Bassist from Bury Tomorrow) what his guilty pleasure was musically! What was his response?!

A. The Beach Boys & Cliff Richard

B. Lady Gaga & Nicki Minaj

C:  Britney Spears & Kylie Minogue

Ghostfest 2012 Interviews: Emmure

Fearless Vampire Killers: 12th June 2012

Article By Dee

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The British music scene just keeps leaving me speechless at the moment, especially as there is such amazing new talent out there who are showing the rest of the music industry just how having determination and passion can create amazing results. The latest new band for me to come across were, Fearless Vampire Killers when they came to Newcastle earlier this month as part of the William Control UK tour.

 I have not heard any of their music before this night, but I had heard that theNewcastlemusic scene had great support for them, so I needed to see the guys for myself and see what made them so special. Now usually the structure of my reviewing and interviewing is like this – watch a band perform first or at the very least check out the internet for some of their material and then request an interview. In theory that’s what should usually happen, but for once I wanted to improvise and decided to interview first.

 I was blessed to be able to speak to three members of this intriguing band, Shane, Lawrence and Drew. I was basically using this as an opportunity to learn more about Fearless Vampire Killers, so even though I try to avoid the subject, I was fascinated to know where the name of the band had originated from.Lawrenceexplained to me that this was a named based on his favourite childhood film. Rather than choosing just any name however the band also wanted to create a name which caused a reaction as well.

 When asked for their type of influences – they informed me that it was mainly revolved around the likes of Danny Elfman and Tim Burton style films. Drew described themselves as a gothic, classic band – withLawrenceadding to the conversation “Like A circus – full of surprises and fun”.

 Before I go any further, just think for a moment. You see your favourite band perform and not only playing with them but actually joining them as a fully established member happens. At first you would think this would be impossible – however this is not so my dears. Being a mahoosive fan of Fearless Vampire Killers, it was like a plan come true when Drew was able to join the band. His inclusion in the band would have been much sooner, but asLawrenceexplained this was due to Drew already being in another band named, Plan 9.

 Looking at these three guys sat in front of me it was obvious that they loved being in each others company, so as I ask any band I wanted to know what the chemistry was like between all the members. Having grown up together when on stage for the first time the chemistry was instantLawrencetells me. Also the fact that they had known one another at an early stage meant that they had always felt close.

 Getting the basics out the way, it was time to move the interviewing onto the currentUKtour with William Control. The guys told me when they received notification of the tour, they were really happy to know that they were going to be playing with William Control. Being a follower since the days of Aiden, not only was William there as the headliner on the tour, but he was also their where Fearless Vampire Killers needed any advice. Its such a great thing to hear about bands on a tour not just supporting on stage but off stage too.

 When an artist or a band are playing on a tour there is another important aspect we as listeners should not forget. Yes it’s a joy for us to hear and see our favourite bands perform right in front of us, but have you ever wondered what the artist’s themselves want to achieve by touring? The answer is so simple, as Lawrence, Shane and Drew told me the most valuable thing was to spread the name Fearless Vampire Killers and also be able to play to a mixture of old followers and new fans.

 Time was ticking on, and as much as I love interviewing I had to draw the questions to an end, but not without slipping in one more query. What goes through their head just before they go on stage to perform? All three were quite open and said apart from the usual hugs, and sword fights (that would be Drew btw), the main thought pattern was to play a good show and to think positively.

 Interview over, me and photographer Kate Hollamby headed back outside as we waited for the gig to officially start. Taking place in the nice and snug A2 over at the Academy, the first band to take to the stage was Rossi Noise. Based inNewcastle, this is a band I have always heard positive reviews about but leading the hectic life I do, I always seem to miss them. Therefore it was an absolute delight to be able to see them for the first time.

 The role of the first band is important, because in some sense I believe it’s the energy they create that dictates how insane the vibe is for the rest of the show. Rossi Noise therefore not only delivered such an electrifying performance but their material was experimental, daring and most of all fecking brilliant. Local new talent is such a priceless thing when it’s done with the same level of maturity, dedication and energy that Rossi Noise showed me in their set. It may not have been a necessarily long set, but it was long enough to convince me that they are certainly a strong contender in the north east music scene.

 Taking a bit of a walk – as I needed to get a breath of fresh air, I returned to the A2 to watch Fearless Vampire Killers. Never ever did I expect to listen to a band for the very first time, and my mind be blown to the next level like FVK did. Wow!!!! Firstly people will know anything related or based around a Tim Burton feel and I am instantly screaming with hyperness inside my head. This is not the only reason for being totally in love with FVK however.

 Performance wise the guys perform with such passion and energy during every song. The audience are drawn in and dancing away – and yes that does include me too! Now I am a fan of bands such as I Am Ghost and Chiodos, so if you like those two bands then you will certainly love Fearless Vampire Killers.

 However what I would also add to this is that FVK as modest as they may have been in the interview should be absolutely pleased with how they are progressing as a band. They have put a lot of hard work and care into this band, and I can certainly see them getting stronger and stronger to the point where it would be a crime to miss out on such an amazing British band.

 I started the day not knowing anything about Fearless Vampire Killers, but it ended with me thirsty for more of their material. Well done guys, Thanks for an Amazing Night!!!!