As a young music publisher I came across the Seattle band Sky Cries Mary back in 1991. Around the time SCM released the EP Exit At The Access. The moment I heard Roderick Wolgamott and his forever evolving cast of incredibly talented creators and musicians, well, I instantly fell in love and have been a lifelong fan and supporter. Their blend of space rock mysticism, psychedelic tribal jam band mixed with ethereal vocals has always come across as profound.

There's deep affection for the group in the Film Music Supervisor community. "The Elephant Song" was featured on the soundtrack for the movie The Harvest. "Shipwrecked" was featured on the soundtrack for the movie Tank Girl and their song "Cornerman" was featured in the movie Higher Learning.

Sky Cries Mary recently released their 11th album entitled Secrets of a Red Planet. Featured here is the single/video for "Waves of Morning". It's memorizing and a suitable preview for the rest of the album.

I encourage all to dive in to the full Secrets of a Red Planet album. Much more to come from Roderick, Ben Ireland, Debora Reese, Curt Eckman, Kevin Whitworth and Jack Endino.

-John Anderson a.k.a. Hot Tub Johnnie

What does it take to do three sets, in three time zones, in 15 hours? Ask Fozzy, as that is exactly how they kicked off their Judas Rising Tour, with a marathon of sets in Fort Myers, El Paso, and Las Vegas in a single day. Clips from these concerts were included in documentary fashion, in Fozzy Across America, as part of a live-stream concert produced over the weekend and filmed live in Atlanta, GA. The roughly two-hour event began with the mini-doc hyping up the tour, as well as the work ethic and all around energy Fozzy brings to the table, then led directly into Capturing Judas, featuring the band performing their tour set, live in the studio. It was a unique experience, which not only highlighted Fozzy’s creativity, but also showed the potential for live music in a time of scarcity.

Fozzy Across America gave a peek into the quick mini-tour of the same name, which launched the Judas Rising Tour. Interviews with the band and crew at the various locations, backstage and in-flight footage, and shots from the shows, featuring a soundtrack of music from the tour, not only made for an incredible promotion piece, but also gave insight into Fozzy’s personalities and relationships with each other, in a way that is not often seen for touring bands. Hearing about and seeing how those concerts came together, and witnessing the commitment to entertaining bona fide Fozzy fans was inspiring. Fozzy Across America seemed to be the perfect first step of Fozzy’s most recent tour, and seeing that come to life, along with the concert which followed, was the perfect way to cap it off.

As the world put restrictions on large gatherings, Fozzy had to improvise regarding their Judas Rising Tour, which is what led to Capturing Judas: a live-streamed, in-studio concert of the tour setlist, performed by Fozzy, and featuring story-telling about stops on the larger tour, as well as how the production was formulated. It was another creative glimpse into Fozzy’s personal sides, as well as a memorable performance, by more than live-stream standards. Performances live in the studio have a vibe that’s not quite the same as a traditional concert recording, and far different from polished studio albums. This performance allowed each song to have a composition and identity contrasted from their original album counterparts. Getting to see, and hear Fozzy talk about their techniques for these songs on tour was fascinating. It was also refreshing to get a live-streamed concert, which totally immersed the viewer, not only with the intro film, but with an elaborate audio and video setup. It is not easy for these types of events to hit as hard as they do in person, but Fozzy nailed it.

The entire production was thoughtfully pieced together, and was an oasis in what has mostly been a desert for new and interesting live showcases of music. Fozzy clearly cares about their true fans, and has an ongoing desire to bring their energy and hospitality, even in rather unconventional situations. In fact, it is in those situations Fozzy seems to be at their most creative; and we are all the more blessed for it.

If for some strange reason you missed the initial Livestream on November 14th, stress not.  Tickets are still available to purchase and will be available to watch until November 29th. Purchase tickets HERE. 

It is hard to grasp the full force of an artist without first witnessing the raw, spontaneous energy of their live show. Live albums have always been the highlight reel into an artist’s back catalog. While the days of stuffing a tape deck into your pants to record the blown-out audio of your favorite bands are long gone, there will always be a place for live recordings in any music die-hard’s record collection.

For the last 16 years, ALTER BRIDGE has been the embodiment of creative triumph in the face of scrutiny and uncertainty. After the massive commercial success of 90’s hard rock juggernauts, Creed came to its highly-publicized conclusion due to the band’s golden child, Scott Stapp succumbing to his own personal struggles; the remaining members of Creed remained steadfast while refocusing their efforts on a new project. Guitarist, Mark Tremonti; bassist, Brian Marshall; and drummer Scott Phillips enlisted ex-Mayfield Four vocalist, Myles Kennedy to round out the line-up just months before Creed’s official end.

Walk The Sky 2.0 is a 7-song EP, from veteran hard rockers, ALTER BRIDGE that showcases an impressive mix of live recordings of songs off their latest album, Walk The Sky as well as a newly recorded and surprisingly massive, original track.

The EP wastes no time launching headfirst into the pulverizing opener, “Last Rites”, their latest track that was written and recorded entirely during the Covid-19 pandemic. A crushing, Alice In Chains-esche riff propels the album forward as Kennedy’s impressive vocal range is front and center, weaving a not-so-subtle nod to Seattle grunge, while infusing his own unique voice to the track.

The bulk of the album focuses on live performances of set list favorites from Walk The Sky. “Wouldn’t You Rather” is a fitting opener to the pseudo live set that gets the energy flowing and ready for a night of fist-pumping, anthemic hard rock. The Synthwave infused, “Pay No Mind” maintains its intense, melodic complexity while title-track, “Native Son” never misses its target with those infectiously catchy choruses, easily-digestible yet complex riffs and impassioned lyricism. The EP comes to a massive close with “Dying Light”, an emotionally-charged, arena rock anthem that showcases the band at its emotive peak with Kennedy’s soaring vocals cutting through the complexity of Tremonti’s impressive guitar work.

While darkened clouds seem never ending, Walk The Sky 2.0 is a welcome patch of blue in these uncertain times. Grab your headphones and transport yourself to a time before the fires, the ideocracy, and the self-isolation.

ALTER BRIDGE will be there to welcome you.

 As always, rock on my friends!     Hunnypot Approved!     Overall Rating:  9.3 out of 10

Artist:  Alter Bridge LP: Walk the Sky 2.0,   Release Date: Nov 6, 2020  Label:  Napalm Records

--Robyn Dee

I have been a fan of Hands Like Houses for a hot minute now and they've always been a band I’ve always enjoyed listening to. They are everything you want in a hardcore band but without the screams.  It took me a while to get used to their unique sound, but in the end really digging their style. I’m excited to get the opportunity to review their new self-titled EP. I know based off the singles that is was going to be a new type of sound and so I wasn’t surprised that it was going to slap.

First, I would just like to say that I’m sad it was only an EP because every song was so good. They took it in a new direction that gave it a poppy feel while still keeping their roots. Trenton Woodley has a very unique and memorable voice and what he did on this EP was nothing short of fantastic. These are songs I can see being heard on the radio, especially “Dangerous”. It's catchy pop-rock for sure but still keeps that Hands Like Houses signature heaviness we all love. It’s also very technically sound with many different elements going on throughout each track. You can tell they didn’t sleep on any of these songs because they are all jam packed with incredibly big sounds and I really enjoyed the vibe that each gave off individually. It’s unlike anything else they have put out in the past but I’m definitely down with it.

From a quality and production standpoint, this EP was mixed and mastered so well. In the song “Stranger”, you can tell they spent time making sure that every transition was seamless without skipping a beat. Hats off to the band for writing such a unique song.  Furthermore, I really dig the background noises you hear in every song. They are very subtle but add so much to the complexity of each song. I speak mostly to the sounds in the song “Wired”, which has such a calming feel to it. The reverb on the guitar is simply beautiful. It’s a solid upbeat song that keeps your head bobbing due to the great drumming courtesy of Matt Parkitney.

Overall, I think Hands Like Houses latest EP is awesome. It's the perfect mix of incredible musicianship combined with solid production which seems rare in this day and age.  Sprinkle in the bands unique intangibles and its a recipe for greatness now and in the foreseeable future.  Do yourself a favor and grab a copy of this instant classic today.   As a long time fan, I love it and am sure you will too!

As always, be well and rock on!     Hunnypot Approved!     Overall Rating:  9.3 out of 10

Artist:  Hands Like Houses  LP: Self-Titled EP,   Release Date: October 23rd, 2020,   Label: UNFD

I was pretty hyped when I received Sevendust’s new album to review. I have been listening to them ever since hearing “Enemy” off their 2003 album, Seasons. Sevendust has such a great sound musically and has always kept it in the same realm from album to album. When they signed to Rise Records, I was like no way! Rise being one of my favorite labels, I could tell Sevendust was still in for the long haul and would continue to crush it. It’s been a little bit since I’ve dove into their discography, but I am excited to share my thoughts on their newest album Blood & Stone, formally being released  today. Let’s not waste too much time and jump right into it.

Sevendust doesn’t skip a beat from their last to present, kicking off Blood & Stone with “Dying to Live”. The incorporation of the electronic elements with hard-hitting riffs was an immediate attention grabber. I really wasn’t expecting that but I’m glad they did . I also really enjoyed the low tones on “Blood From A Stone", very crisp sound which adds a ton to the ultimate vibe of the track. And you have to give it to Lajon Witherspoon for always keeping his vocals consistent on each of their albums. You know you’re listening to Sevendust the moment you press play on this one - so killer! 

I love where we are in 2020 with music production because of how full you can make a song feel and Blood & Stone exemplifies that with every instrument. You get that full effect of that about 3 quarters of the way through “Feel Like Going On” where the riffs are just encapsulating your ears. The mixing done on this album is insane so props to their producer, Michael “Elvis” Baskette on a tremendous job. From a production perspective, I want to highlight “Kill Me” as well. The intro picking is the perfect dreamy feeling which keeps you tuned in waiting for more. And to top the entire album off, they end it with the Soundgarden’s “The Day I Tried To Live” and absolutely slayed it. A fantastic tribute to the late Chris Cornell.

I feel there comes a point where you have to ask yourself as a band if you keep making music or consider calling it a day.  Many bands of Sevendust's era have come and gone, but these guys continue to push out consistently solid jams that are technically solid and extremely relevant in the crazy world we all inhabit.   I have to give it to Sevendust for the dedication to their craft because some 25 years later, they continue producing mind blowing music that keeps fans coming back for more.  I love seeing bands I grew up listening to continue to succeed, and the moment live music returns, I am putting them on my bucket list to see live.

Overall, Sevendust's latest is 100% fire. I enjoyed Blood & Stone from beginning to end, and part of me wished there was more because of how much I loved it. I’m excited to see what this album does for Sevendust and their incredible legacy of high-octane metal madness going forward. Definitely give this album a spin because it is probably some of their best work to date - I can't get enough!

As always, be well and rock on!     Hunnypot Approved!     Overall Rating:  9.5 out of 10

Artist:  Sevendust  LP: Blood & Stone,   Release Date: October 23rd, 2020,   Label: Rise Records

The development of the collaboration took place during the quarantine period of the Covid-19 Pandemic. The only communications between HD & Wolf were thru via-text & email. Allowing one another to creatively and artistically express themselves without limitations or restrictions during their solitude of creativity.

The track begins in a Dark cinematic lullaby, setting an eerie sonic illusion of lifeless momentum before falling into the abyss chaotic beauty. As the tension builds before the drop, the last notes of the melody brings you into a jigsaw workflow of carefully placed sound design, drums, and glitches. Wolf's vocals effortlessly swim through the harsh digitals waters of progression and heaviness, allowing the lyrics to create a hypnotic anthem that will leave you wanting more or this track on repeat. 

HD's creative goal on "Death Awaits" was to push the limitations of today's bass music, fusing IDM and Wolf's vocals in creating an oppressive and domineering marriage between the two, allowing one another to breathe in the chaotic realm that both channel, a cosmic conversation between life and death, hence the title "Death Awaits". More collaborations are currently in the works, so keep an ear out for this artist. 

-Drew Hollinger 

Kidd Kenn the 17-year-old Chicago native newly signed to Island Records. The openly queer rapper has been making a ruckus in the music industry. The passionate kid has been climbing the tracks with some help from social media. His song "Freestyle" has been popular on Tik Tok. Kidd Kenn performed with Kehlani at the Red Bull Music Festival in 2019. This kid is talented and you have to add him to your playlist. Big things to come from this young artist. 

NACHTBLUT takes listeners on a sonic journey that evokes the imagination and stirs the soul. Each song is an act of artistic creation that opens up a conversation between the creators and those immersed in the experience. In the end, the interpretation of this experience is ultimately left in the hands of the audience. Hope and dreams may spring from within one enrapturing song, while another more fearsome song can be dread-inducing, impaling the soul while leaving a shard of itself deep within.

The embers that have been steadily burning since 2005 from the German Gothic Metal band, NACHTBLUT have become a conflagration of fire and flame. Vanitas, their sixth studio album is a maelstrom of dark musical styles that expand and contract with the atmosphere created within every song. With Vanitas sung entirely in NACHTBLUT’s native tongue you’ll be hard-pressed to find lyrics translated into English. Through the convenience of Google Translate, non-German speakers can easily gain access to Askeroth’s imaginative lyricism albeit a rough translation, throughout the album.

Unlike the predominately straight-forward march of most traditional German Industrial Metal bands, NACHTBLUT blends their influences seamlessly into a melodious concoction of Black Metal, Folk, and Gothic/Industrial. As the foreboding ambiance of the opening track “Veritas” methodically leads us into “Varitas”, the album’s title track, a Gothic choir fuels the madness behind guitarist, Greif’s pummeling riffs. Every composition on Vanitas launches you forward through a foreboding hall as every compelling step leads into a doorway that is a theatre all it’s own.

“Das Puppenhaus” is the soundtrack to the nightmare that paralyzes your every movement. “Leierkinder” takes a drastic departure into Folk Metal territory but doesn’t lose it’s crushing ferocity. Both “Schmerz & Leid” (feat. Chris Harms) and “Nur In Der Nacht” are unapologetically influenced by 80’s Gothic/Industrial while “Fürchtet Was Geschrieben Steht” is a beast that is as triumphant as it is monstrous.

With time, all paintings fade and crack but true works of art not only stand the test of time but also inspire introspection. Vanitas is inherently complex in its lyricism and composition while remaining brutally unrelenting in it’s delivery. For those that haven’t explored the darkened corners of German Gothic Metal, NACHTBLUT is sure to open your mind and lead you to strange new places within previously unexplored.

As always, be well and rock on!     Hunnypot Approved!     Overall Rating:  8.8 out of 10

Artist:  NACHTBLUT  LP: Vanitas,   Release Date: October 2nd, 2020,   Label: Napalm Records

If you’ve been roaming the dancehall desert searching for the next wave of underground sonic planeteers, look no further than Sean the Star Emperor. Sean the Star brings his voguing, Minogueing bounce in his new single, sending Earth a message of contentment in “Paradise”. Best enjoyed under bright beams, “Paradise” is a light and hip-poppy earworm perfect for a kiki, a party, a drive and pretty much any situation that could stand for an extra dose of sunshine.

Sean and his popsicle hued go-go skaters bring to life the music video that epitomises the song’s imaginative, escapist theme. Exasperated by the blandness of this mortal world, Sean flounces onto the street and syncopates his frustration to unveil a colorful, splashy good time right outside the house. Gliding through this new dimension, collecting friends and good vibrations in a single long-take vacation.

“Paradise” is a composite of imagination and reality, of expectations and exploration. Life confined to your immediate surroundings can be a bummer, but Sean the Star Emperor puts it best, “Fun is what we make of the conditions: ‘Any way you like, wake up to Paradise…’” When you work with what you have, it’s all bliss, sis.  -Robyn Dee

Hunnypot is SEAN THE STAR EMPEROR's official sync representative both Masters & Publishing, ready for LICENSING! - John Anderson

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