Tag Archives: BLS

THE GROUND BENEATH -“SELF TITLED” CD REVIEW

by

0

SELFTITLEDcover

 

1. Choke
2. Say It
3. Signs
4. It’s You
5. Blame
6. The Passing
7. Lost In Me
8. Blind
9. Memphis
10. RLS
11. Back Door Alley Girl
12. Disappear
13. Mine
14. Flounder Piano
15. Burjay

The Ground Beneath is:
Steve Civerolo – Vocals/Electric & Acoustic six & Twelve string guitars, Brian Scott – Drums, Hunter McCoy – Bass guitar

Guest Musicians on “Self Titled”:
Brian Ostrom – Four string bass guitar on “Memphis”, Paul Civerolo – Guest lead electric six string guitar on “Lost In Me” (Paul appears courtesy of Howlin’ Dog Records), Laurie Selby – Cello on “It’s You”/”Blame”/”Not Me” (Laurie appears courtesy of the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra), Jonathan “Jonny Law” Jonah – Guest lead vocals on “Burjay” (Jonathan appears courtesy of Rancho Relaxo Records), Rick Fusco & Kenny Davis – gang vocals on “Mine”

     I have had this CD for a couple of weeks now. The official release is going to be on January 17th 2013 at the Launchpad in Albuquerque, NM.

1395935_10152016325252033_2069515861_n

 

Let’s get into the CD itself. The Ground Beneath is one of those bands that just plain and simply gets it. Steve Beneath is one hard-working SOB, always at shows, doing radio guest spots, texting about upcoming shows, anything it takes.  That tenacity shows in the latest release from The Ground Beneath “Self Titled”. “Self Titled” is actually the name of the new CD, a little bit of humor from the band.

Let’s get the technical stuff out-of-the-way first. The CD is clean and I mean CLEAN, the production quality is top-notch. The mix is great and the sound is not muddied in any way. Kudos for the guys on their attention to detail. This CD is meant to be played LOUD and is sounds great at those ear bleeding volumes.

Now for the fun stuff! I have been listening to this CD pretty regularly and this just so happens to be my third rewrite of this review. I keep coming back to this CD and discovering more stuff that I like about it. I love it when a band makes music that is inspired by other artists and yet sounds new. Let me explain, I know Steve is inspired by bands like Zakk Wylde’s Black Label Society, Pantera, Down, Corrosion of Conformity, HELLYEAH, Strapping Young Lad, Deftones, U2, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Damageplan. You can hear elements from all of these bands in the music and yet it remains distinctly The Ground Beneath.

“Self Titled” is , dare I say, a groovy record. While the world must be obliged with the obligatory single, which is “Blind”, I think the CD needs to be taken as a whole. The flow of the songs is just that good. I actually forget this is a local band out of Albuquerque, New Mexico when I am listening to it. Which leads me to ask “Why isn’t stuff like this being played on national radio?”

Steve handles all of the writing of the lyrics and music which is a testament to his talent. The band as a whole plays the songs that Steve has envisioned with a fervor and passion that will quickly infect you. Steve’s vocal work and guitar skills are right on par with some of the music world best. Brian “Bearface” Scott goes from flat-out pound your skull in drumming to tribal like beats keeping the band anchored with a solid back beat. Hunter McCoy anchors the package together with some bass lines that will have your heart pounding trying to keep up.

1012503_10151935981077033_136787023_n

 

In conclusion “Self Titled” is a record chock full of solid Rock N’ Roll tunes, pinch harmonics, throbbing bass lines, pounding drums, melodic compositions, hypnotic vocals and yes even a cello. Solid 10 out of 10 in my book, definitely a necessity in everyone’s music collection.

it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s THE GROUND BENEATH

– the Hellion

 

BLACK LABEL SOCIETY – CATACOMBS OF THE BLACK VATICAN – 4/8/14

by

0

download

 

It is time, time to explore the Catacombs Of The Black Vatican! We have been waiting for new material from BLS since Order Of The Black in 2010. Now in April of 2014 we will be led into the Catacombs Of The Black Vatican! See you there!

     SDMF my Family!

     the Hellion

Black Label Society welcomes guitarist Dario Lorina to the Family!

by

0

download

 

Well my  SDMF Family we were all saddened by the departure of Brother Nick “The Evil Twin” Catanese last month and we wish him the best in his new endeavors. Now, we welcome a new Brother to the fold. Father Zakk has tapped Lizzy Borden guitarist Dario Lorina to sit in for a while.

935884_10151777584926907_457717638_n

 

Here’s a little taste of Dario:

     Stayed tuned for more information as it becomes available. Remember, Zakk and co. are currently working on a new record for us as well!!!

     it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s BLACK LABEL SOCIETY!!!!

     the Hellion

2013 was a great year for the Hellion Rocks, bring on 2014!!!

by

1

178928_10150973183505972_426071352_n 2013 was great year for us here at the Hellion Rocks. Killer interviews, great shows and hanging with even cooler people. It’s very cool when you get to talk to artists you have grown to admire. It’s even cooler when they message you and stay in contact with you. It’s a great feeling when you also help to spread the word of a new up-and-coming band as well. In the past year I have learned how small the music community really is. It is amazing the connections that lead to other connections and how the music brings us all together.

I have to give thanks to my cohorts at Bleach Bangs Radio, Charlie Owens and Randy Norris. These guys are my brothers plain and simple. They are the embodiment of awesome and I am proud to work with them.

     Eddie’s Mates holds a special place in my heart as well. Sandy and Sean have not only helped us with Bleach Bangs Radio they also made the logo for the Hellion Rocks! Thanks EM!!!

18222_506710132693748_815406802_n

I have to thank my wife Dani for giving me the courage and strength to reach out and chase this crazy dream. She is ALWAYS there for me.

There are so many people who mean the world to me as well: Mike Araiza, Jeff Sandoval, Adam Joad, Jake Delling LeBas, Redd Yoachum and the rest from Scattered Hamlet, Craw Cajun and Kat Ford, Death Alley Motor Cult, Kurt Arft, Wornstar Clothing, Justin Manning and Crowned By Fire, and Dellacoma Rio and the Sunset Riot guys, Steve Helmer, Dave Gold, and Bobby Siekkinen . Those are just a few from an incredible list.

Thank you to all of the publicists that have worked with me this year as well. Here’s looking towards a productive 2014!!!

Thanks to Blabbermouth.net and Circus Magazine for picking up some of my interviews! I am honored and humbled.

Lastly but far from least I wish I could personally thank each and every one of the 60,000 people from the 140 countries around the world who dropped in on this site last year. I hope you enjoyed it and let me know what you want to see here in the future.

it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s ROCK N’ ROLL!!

see ya in 2014 – the Hellion

Steve Civerolo talk about The Ground Beneath “Self Titled”

by

0

1383319_10151869137630999_190147884_n

 

1012791_580678251972884_1454272681_n

 

     It’s always a fun time talking with Steve from the Ground Beneath. We got lucky and he gave an exclusive interview about the upcoming TGB release “Self Titled”. He even let us play a track off of the new record. Check it out right here: 

Be sure to check out The Ground Beneath online at: https://www.facebook.com/thegroundbeneath http://www.thegroundbeneath.com/

1012503_10151935981077033_136787023_n

     if you happen to be in the Albuquerque, NM area on January the 17th you can experience The Ground Beneath at their CD release show at the Launchpad!

1395935_10152016325252033_2069515861_n

      it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s THE GROUND BENEATH!!

     the hHellion

Happy Holidays from the Hellion Rocks!

by

0

BeFunky_20131224_124854.jpg

 

2013 was an AWESOME year! I got to photograph and interview some GREAT artists and make  a lot of new friends. Thank you to you all for stopping in and checking things out! We’re planning on bringing you bigger and better things in 2014! I’m already backed up with CD reviews!

 

it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s ROCK N’ ROLL!

the Hellion

the Hellion Rocks top 16 (started at 10, then 16) CDs of 2013!!!

by

0

472176_10150957207320972_1918274537_o_1

Well it’s rapidly approaching the end of 2013 and time for my top releases of the year. While there were so many fantastic records from both new and established artists, there are a few that just burrowed into my brain and I couldn’t shake them. There are 16 that I am going to mention here and they are in no particular order as they are all incredible in my book. To those bands who aren’t listed here, relax I have another post planned to address you.

     KILL DEVIL HILL – REVOLUTION RISE

Kill_Devil_Hill__Revolution_Rise__album_cover

When you have a CD from a band that has members like Vinny Appice, Rex Brown, Mark Zavon, and Dewey Bragg you know your’re in for a treat. This CD kicks ass on so many levels. The music of KDH sounds familiar and distinctly unique, giving you a feeling that this band has been around for years but yet remaining fresh. Do NOT miss out on this CD, here’s a taste:

SCATTERED HAMLET – SKELETON DIXIE

Scattered Hamlet - Skeleton Dixie CD cover

Scattered Hamlet – Skeleton Dixie CD cover

My boys in Scattered Hamlet deliver on their full length release and then some. Remember when music made you feel something? Skeleton Dixie gets right in and touches your musical soul. Throughout the years these guys have become family to me and I have the great fortune of being mentioned in this CD as well. You WILL love it! Get some:

THE WINERY DOGS

the-winery-dogs

     When Billy Sheehan, Mike Portnoy, and Richie Kotzen get together you know you’re gonna get something great. There was a lot of buzz around this project and when it came to fruition it delivered in spades. Great straight up rock n’ roll, there needs to me more records like this one. Check it:

TOM KEIFER – THE WAY LIFE GOES

555112_449135921838067_1069727648_n

     Tom Keifer has always been one of my favorite vocalists. The gritty soulfulness of his voice is iconic. It has been quite a while since we have had new music from Tom and it has been worth the wait. Bluesy with a razors edge is what you find on this record. Take a listen:

STRYPER – NO MORE HELL TO PAY

1467368_10152073117583420_440701384_n

     I find it funny that I have included Stryper on this list. I’ll admit that I was not really the biggest Stryper fan back in the day, I have found a new respect for them in this record. They have a tenacity that will not quit. Strong in their beliefs, and strong in their musical passion is what landed them here. (On a side note, I recently interviewed Michael Sweet and have one coming up with Oz Fox). Here’s the title track:

BLACK WATER RISING – PISSED AND DRIVEN

1381262_10151928381446591_1272359705_n

     Black Water Rising has been honing this record for a few years, and it shows. These guys have been in my ears for a few years now and I finally got to see them live and hear some of these songs live. BWR brings powerful rock n’ roll and here is some for ya :

ADRIAN GALYSH – TONE POET

Adrian Galysh Tone Poet Cover

     Adrian Galysh is one of hidden talents that the world has yet to discover. I received this CD for review and was completely amazed by it, and I believe you will be too. listen to this CD and hear a mans passion transferred to his music.

KORN – THE PARADIGM SHIFT

994246_10151799398565761_457732412_n

     Korn has welcomed Head back into its fold and released one of their best CDs to date. I believe that their life experiences has caused this band to grow and mature and that growth is reflected in The Paradigm shift. “Never Never” has become one of my favorite tracks. Check out the video and see why:

DEATH ALLEY MOTOR CULT – THE OUTLAW CHRONICLES

1017012_10152160175737785_1992583669_n

     Death Alley Motor Cult is one of those bands that you want to hang out with but you remember what your mom said to you about the company you keep. Their music is like that too, when you listen to it you feel dirty, dangerous, and cool, very very cool. The Outlaw Chronicles needs to be played at 11 and in a conspicuous place so you can “enlighten” those in need of a visceral experience.

AVENGED SEVENFOLD – HAIL TO THE KING

20130726112438!A7XHailtotheKing

     Sometimes I catch grief for listening to A7X, but this band gives me hope for newer music. upon the heels of suffering the loss of their founding drummer “The Rev” they have come back with strong music that has shaken up the pop laden music charts. Hail To The King pays homage to the bands that inspired these guys. Hail To The King:

CLUTCH – EARTH ROCKER

Clutch-Earth-Rocker

     Clutch is one of those bands that will always remain just under the radar. Earth Rocker is a great album that unfortunately many people will not get to hear. Clutch is a band that gets ignored by the mainstream and yet I think they are happy with that. Great band, great show, great record. Do yourself a favor and listen to Earth Rocker and then dig into the music of Clutch. Here’s “Crucial Velocity”:

ADRENALINE MOB – COVERTA

Coverta-Cover

     Adrenaline Mob put out this CD of covers that is just incredibly awesome. They cover Van Halen’s “Romeo Delight” with the power and aggression that I think it deserved from the beginning. I usually do not put cover albums on my list, but this one has a place. Check this out:

MONSTER MAGNET – LAST PATROL

MonsterMagnetLastPatrol

     Last Patrol takes you on a psychedelic journey into the mind of Dave Wyndorf. Monster Magnet is back on their game with their latest release. Just caught these guys on tour in support of Last Patrol and the songs kick ass live!

MINDCAGE – OUR OWN DEVICES

1238024_10151858750679507_1654952403_n

     Mindcage came out of left field and socked me in the head with this one. Our Own Devices creates a magical world with their powerful music. I have said that is transports you away from the mundane and I stand by that statement. Here you go:

BLACK LABEL SOCIETY – UNBLACKENED

10-02-Discs-Black-Label-Society-Unblackened

     Those of you who know me knew this one would end up on here. Zakk and co. have always and will always be one of my favorites. Unblackened gives new life to some of the most iconic BLS tracks. While the members may change, Black Label Society will remain STRONGER THAN DEATH.

TRACII GUNS’ LEAGUE OF GENTLEMEN – THE FIRST RECORD

91LcWgdUx1L._SL1400_

     Of all of the great and wonderful 2013 releases on my list, this is most magical for me. Having considered Tracii Guns one of my favorite guitarists for years and years I was supremely stoked when I caught wind of this project. When I finally had it in my  hands it was all that I expected and then some. Trippy , ethereal and full of passion, and soul the music found on here is the kind we grew up listening to. Thank you Tracii!

     its loud, it’s dirty, it’s ROCK N’ ROLL!!!

     the Hellion

Let’s talk about Black Label Society

by

0

download     With the recent departure of Nick “Evil Twin” Catanese laying heavy on my thoughts, and the abundance of posts littering the internet, I have decided to talk about Black Label Society and my views.

sdmfrules

 

In 1998 when Zakk established Black Label Society he called together a family that knows no bounds. Yes I said family don’t get me wrong,  there are fans of Black Label Society as well, but there is a Black Label Society Family that is like no other.

Over the years I have had the chance to get to know certain Family members and had the great fortune to call them Brothers and Sisters. This Family shares in the joys and sorrows of each other and stands strong in its support of one another.

When there is a BLS event near or far you can be sure the Family will gather and great times will ensue. The Family members that make the gathering share pictures and stories with the ones who were unable to attend thus making them feel a part of the event. Some family members even pick up swag for those that couldn’t go.

Let’s talk about GI/FD, SDMF.

Strength, Determination, Merciless, Forever: yup we are all that and then some. I have those words tattooed on my arm and I look at them every day. They are my mantra in this crazy world, they give me balance. Let’s examine these words one at a time.

35361_444100720971_709820971_5889017_3794041_n

     STRENGTH: It comes in many ways and from many sources. One has to be strong when others need it, and one needs the strength to accept help when it is needed and given.

DETERMINATION: In today’s throw a way world it is easy to say “screw it” and give up. Giving up is not the BLS Family way period. The support given by our Brothers and Sisters keeps your heart in the game and gives you the determination to power through the rough times, Determination indeed.

MERCILESS: Woe be to those who try to tear us asunder. We are Merciless to those naysayers and those that doubt who we are. United we shall  stand for all time.

FOREVER: This Family is eternal beyond forever. There are Family members who have passed on out of our world and yet they remain with us in the pictures, posts, lives, and hearts in this world. There are far too many Family members that are important to me to give individual shout outs but as you read this you’ll know who you are and my respect and love for you runs deep. I thank you from the bottom of my Black Bleedin’ heart.

GI/FD: Get It Fucking Done indeed, don’t just talk about it do it! There are so many people out there who never do anything. They plan and think “if only”, “I wish” ….on and on. Enjoy what we have and share that joy with others. You will be amazed at how full your life will become.

Thank you Father Zakk for calling us together, we will be here  and will stand beside you Beyond Forever.

BLS Family: Yeah we’re Family and I like to think that the strength and power of the Family Zakk called together blows his mind, or maybe it’s what he intended all along…….

178928_10150973183505972_426071352_n

     -the Hellion

 

Regarding the departure of Nick Catanese from Black Label Society

by

0

black-label-society-2013

 

The opinions reflected herein are mine and mine alone.

As we all have heard by now our favorite “Evil Twin” has decided to part ways with Black Label Society. While we are all saddened to hear this news we should also celebrate Nick and his time in the band. It has always been my belief that Black Label Society is bigger than its members. We have seen members come and go and yet BLS remains strong. SDMF is our credo and we should always try to live to it. I applaud Zakk for giving musicians such as Phil Ondich, Steve Gibb, Craig Nunemacher, Mike Inez, Robert Trujillo, James LoMenzo, Will Hunt, Mike Froedge, Johnny Kelly, Jeff Fabb their time with BLS.

We will get through this change as we always have. Nick will be ok and we will get new music to know and love from him and his future projects.

Best wishes Nick We love you Beyond Forever.

STRENGTH DETERMINATION MERCILESS FOREVER – is it in you?

it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s BLS ….now GI/FD

the Hellion

 

 

Cycle Of Pain, Black Label Society bass legend John “JD” DeServio on the Hellion Rocks

by

1

JD_DeServio-display

 

I keep fighting to bring you pertinent interviews with musicians trying to keep kicking your  ass with new music. From time to time people step up to help these interviews happen. The Garcia family (Ish, Lacey, and Matt “The Cat”) put me in touch with Paul Byrne who set this interview up. Thank you guys for stepping up and making this interview with John “JD” DeServio!

Cycle Of Pain has already put out one quality record and is fixing to drop another killer EP on us soon. Cycle Of Pain is:

John “JD” Deservio (Bass)
Joe Taylor (Lead Guitar)
Gregg Locascio (Vox, Guitar)
Bob Pantella (Drums)
Troy Cromwell (Keys)

562944_10151743951783127_2118470701_n

 

black-label-society-2013

 

JD and I talked a little about his history, a little BLS, his Schecter endorsement,  and music. Enjoy the interview right here:

     it’s loud, it’s dirty, it’s JD holding down the bottom end!

the Hellion