Black Empire
Escapi Music
It's certainly great to see the former Mercyful Fate axemen Hank Shermann and Michael Denner back in action with new band Force Of Evil. This band brings back great memories of the new wave of European metal era of the early '80s. Shermann and Denner shred throughout this CD with grinding riffs and blistering duel leads that take the listener back to Mercyful Fate's first EP (on the Dutch inde Rave On) and early demos. Although the songs aren't particularly mind-blowing and quite honestly sound very dated, the power and energy Force Of Evil lays forth is prevalent. Black Empire is evidently Force Of Evil's second CD (I'm not aware of their first release) and is lyrically based on classic works of horror. In fact, several of the tracks were inspired by classic horror movies such as the title track "Black Empire" (based on The Amityville Horror) and "Days Of Damien" (based on The Omen). Vocalist Martin Steene penned all the lyrics and his bone-chilling voice suits the dark horrific images quite well. If you're into classic European metal, check out these Danes. The CD may be hard to find but definitely worth checking out.
KEITH MILLER
Chalk
Guitar Slinger
Underground guitar-great Keith Miller recently released his second instrumental solo record Chalk. Much like it's predecessor Groove Train (2003), and his previous band Plex'd, Keith Miller continues with his trademark style intricate guitar-blazing groove-metal with Chalk. Combining several classic metal guitar influences from Michael Schenker to Marty Friedman (with a sound somewhat similar to Marty's early solo work on Dragon's Kiss) Keith Miller jams very tasteful guitar licks atop intricate King's X meets Metallica-type grooves. Keith has a great sense for timing and rhythm and knows not to over-indulge giving the music a chance to breathe before laying down his next soulful guitar lick. Songs such as the title track, "Grid Lock," "Inner Turbulence," and "Rubber Room" prove that Keith Miller has what it takes to contend with today's guitar greats. If you have trouble finding Chalk in the stores, log on to: www.KM-GuitarSlinger.com.
