SinophiA: The Interview

It isn't often that a band from 4500 miles away makes an impact here in the US. Serbian classic metallers SinophiA have a sound that may come off as familiar. Embodying all of the best traits of bands from Judas Priest to Hammerfall, this young team of musicians are about to make a big splash. We sat down with guitarist Stefan Apatović to get the ins and outs of Serbia's up and coming metal kings.

First and foremost, we want to thank you for taking the time to answers some questions for us. Let's start with the name. Where did the name SinophiA come from, and how did you decide that it would be right for your music?

Stephan:
Thank you guys for calling me. It is an honor and privilege to do interview for Sorrow Eternal Blog. You're awesome. 

The first ideas for SinophiA's current work and music writing were established in 2008.  in Serbia, when singer Miodrag Fodora, my blood brother and  bassist Nemanja Apatovic and I began to cooperate in a former band. After a few bands and members were exchanged, in the middle of 2011. We decides to elevate our work and music creation to a higher level, and we finished a couple of our own songs and started looking for permanent and serious members in order to make it all come true. Drummer Ugljesa Cubrilo and guitarist Attila Lukacs soon joined the lineup in January 2012.

Let me introduce you inside our story. SinophiA story happens in the 41. millennium where the world is no longer what it used to be. After many disasters that our civilization has endured are born many many more. Humanity has experienced a crisis which many do not even remember. Spaceships are the only way to travel through many galaxies, and death follows us at every possible corner. Heresy took advantage of mankind and trying to root it out. SinophiA is one of many cities that are victims of corruption and conspiracy. I personally chose this name for the band, because the story I'm going to break down over time, it will describe the world in which we currently live. When you look at the story you will see that we are not far from the truth. You need to stand and fight for what is ours and what we have been building for centuries.

Your influences include some of the biggest names in metal, past and present; from Iron Maiden to Dio, Iced Earth to Hammerfall. How did those bands help to bring you into metal, and shape your sound?

Stephan:
The most distinctive element of the band’s sound is the harmonies, melodies and gallops that can be heard in every song.  The vocals are often high-pitched, but express a full range, while the rhythm section uses thrash and power metal techniques such as double-bass-drumming to keep the speed and energy high. I personally have gotten into the whole story about themes and stories that stretch to almost every song. I'm a big fan of concept albums. I am an amateur writer and because of these bands I started to write lyrics and books.

What does the name of the new EP, "Blessed & Cursed," mean to you personally?

Stephan:
Personally, one part of my life is in that EP. We sacrificed  a lot for this band, and I thanks my brothers from the band for helping me with that whole story. Some good and bad things that have happened to us in life, we have poured into this EP of 4 songs.

I am grateful to people who were with us and whom without this would not be possible. I also want to thank the people who did not believe that we can do this. I believe that everything in life can be achieved if you have enough faith in yourself and in what you do. That's exactly what we did and here we are.

Two things stand out over the course of the four songs on the album. First, the vocals are very strong, with great range. How does Miodrag's vocal range help when writing?

Stephan:
Miodrag is a music genius. He is the main composer in band. He's insane. Whatever we wants, it's not a problem for him to make that possible. And I need to mention it. He only have 18 years and he never went to singing lessons. He just sang along with his favorite bands.

Secondly, the layered guitars make the instrumentals so powerful. How did you balance the heavy distortion with melodies and get this classic metal sound?

Stephan:
Well, it just happened. I think that good part in that have studio where we recording. We love old school rock, metal bands. We just found our sound. We don't have expensive equipment, but we definitely have a lot of ideas.

The production on your album is good. How easy is it to find places to record, and what is the recording process like for an up and coming band?

Stephan:
Well, in Serbia we don't have many studios where we could record our stuff. You just need to pick one of 5. Some of them is very expensive  and we just don't have opportunity to record right now in some huge, expensive studio. I've entered the studio for the 1st time in my life with SinophiA. And it was like, whoa, stop.. This is great! I've found myself in there, and I like the time that we spent in the studio. It's funny, and awesome experience. You just need to be yourself. Don't hurry when you need to record your parts, and everything will be ok. 

Being from Serbia, what is the metal scene like in your country? How big is metal there, and how difficult is it to build a name for yourself?

Stephan:
My personal opinion of Serbian Metal scene? Huh,that's a complicated theme, I must say. I personally think that  Serbia has many good metal bands, I can assure you in that. But it's very hard to find places for young bands to play some gigs. It's also hard to find money for financial support of these bands and to promote them. Surely, metal is not the main genre in this country, but Serbia does have a lot of metalheads which support domestic metal scene, which is very important. 

As for some big names in Serbian metal scene, I have to mention some bands like Sangre Eterna, Forever Storm, Destiny Potato (who signed for Century Media month ago), Midgard. Those are bands in which Serbia can be very proud of. I don't think that Serbian metal scene is very developed, but I hope that soon there will be some good conditions for the bands to develop the scene as much as they can. 

That said, you have shared the stage with other Serbian bands over the last year. Who are some of your favorite local bands?

Stephan:
Definitely Power metal band Forever Storm. They recording 2nd album right now. Thrash/Groove metal band Rapid Force, Heavy metal band New Mythology and Heavy Progressive band Third Gallery.

In September, you have the opportunity to open for Tim "Ripper" Owens, former frontman of Iced Earth and Judas Priest. How do you feel about playing this show, and sharing the stage with a legend?

Stephan:
Our greatest achievement so far was gaining the approval of the Extreme Metal Fest organizer and owner of Zlabog Promotions (booking & promotion agency), Nikola Vukobratovic, who gave us the honor of sharing the stage with the former singer of Judas Priest and Iced Earth,  Tim "Ripper" Owens, as well as the bands Atlantida (Serbia) and Sandstone (Ireland). It happened completely unexpectedly. He offered us a gig and we accepted it without even thinking about it. I believe that we are worthy to open the gig and for us this is a dream come true. 

Do you think that playing this show, along with your other dates for the year, will help to spread your music farther around the world? How get hard has it been to get your name out there?

Stephan:
This is our time, right now. I hope that concert will open some wider horizons further. There are not many bands that get that opportunity and ruins. This is the life opportunity, and we're still shocked. We can't wait for it. 

With bands from across the world, there is always a question of language. Why do you think English tends to be the chosen language across metal, and why did you guys do your lyrics in English?

Stephan:
It's easier for me to write in English. I feel more comfortable. English language have many aspects of words and it's pleasant. It's the language that speaks almost every person in the world, and everyone is ok with that fact.

Lastly, with the EP out on your site, and live dates lined up, what comes next for Sinophia? What are the plans for the future of the band, and when can we expect a full length album?

Stephan:
More and more gigs that is for sure. We wants to visit some states like Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Hungary, they are our neighbors. There is a video too that we need to do. We still don't know where, but everyone will be informed when it comes to that. Also, next year we will surely entered the studio and start with the recordings of the 1st full length album. That's it for now.

Thank you again for taking the time to sit down with us. We are looking forward to a bright future for Sinophia, and other Serbian metal.

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Ex Deo - Caligvla (2012)

As they shake the ground beneath you violently, Ex Deo has returned with another dynamite album. It goes by the name "Caligvla." This bone crushing album delivers nothing but exploding drum rolls, roaring vocals, and electrifying guitar riffs. This is only the bands second full length album but they sure do pack a punch with this one.

The album opens with "I, Caligvla" which has epic strings and horns that make you feel like you're entering in a parade in the streets of Rome. Distorted guitars come chugging in with monstrous riffs while horns light up the background with constant tunes. The vocals step in introducing themselves in a shouting tone. They then switch to violent death metal shouting and completely take over the verse. Heavy double bass pedal drumming rumbles beneath you with reckless thumping bass lines. The refrain throws more pounding guitar riffs along with overwhelming vocals and beating kicks and snares that'll have you up and moshing for sure. The strings step back in towards the end of the track adding more epicness to the song. This track will have you hooked and ready to go for the next nine tracks to go.

"The Tiberius Cliff" picks right back up with the powerful chugging riffs and aggressive vocals in the verses. Cymbals are constantly shattering in the background while double bass patterns roll through with complex fills. The vocals surround you with energy has they blast in your face with a harsh delivery. More strings and horns come back in with "Per Occulus Aquila." You'll find two growling vocals in this track. They layer on top of one another in certain areas adding build up to the refrain. The chorus has machine gun double bass pedals along with high flying strings and other orchestral instruments. They also hit you with an impressive guitar solo half way through the track which is the first real solo of the album. Notes hit you from every direction leaving you clueless as to where the track will go next.

Songs like "Pollice Verso (Damnatio ad Bestia)" and "Teutoburg (Ambush Of Varus)" really begin to step things up with the double bass pedaling. Both tracks shower you with jack hammering kicks and relentless snares that beat you into a pulp. The deep chugging guitar riffs will have you pumping your devil horns in the air immediately. If you're looking for some amazing death metal to blast in your car then these are the track to do it with.

Ex Deo has a similar delivery that Amon Amarth has only their music is a bit more darker and violent. "Caligvla" has some really catchy hooks and certain breakdowns will have you bashing your head automatically. The album provides electrifying riffs and thunderous drum rolls that will keep you addicted for days. And on top of that, the orchestration is absolutely incredible. Definitely give this album a listen. It's well worth the time.

9/10

Official Site - http://www.facebook.com/exdeo
Myspace - http://www.myspace.com/exdeo

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Wind Rose - Shadows Over Lothadruin (2012)

There is a pretty good chance that if you begin your musical career in a band covering the likes of Symphony X and Dream Theater, you have quick fingers and a good sense of rhythm. Evolving from those humble roots, Italy's Wind Rose decided that, in 2009, it was time to strike out on their own, with original material. After their debut EP garnered some positive attention a year later, it was time to take things to a new level. Enlisting the help of renowned producer Cristiano Bertocchi, this five piece symphonic power metal outfit is aiming for the stars. On their new album, "Shadows Over Lothadruin," classical inspirations evolve into something larger than life.

A short orchestral opening, titled "Awakening," sets the scene, as if opening the epic film to come. Our narrator speaks over a combinations of immense strings and horns. The tempo builds and boils over, just in time to launch "The Endless Prophecy." Wasting no time with formalities, the band gives you a quick smack in the face, aided by rolling drums and distorted guitars. The ringing of bells is the accent that puts the sound over the top. By the time Francesco Cavalieri flexes his vocal muscle, the budding instrumental already has you hooked. With only one guitar, a departure from the power metal norm, much of the honus lies on the bass to carry the tune, something Alessio Consani does with bravado. The keyboards and synthesizers give an added depth, even when they are taking over the lead. After the short galloping of horses in "The Tournament," you flow without haste into "Siderion." It is here that you get your first taste of the medieval intricacies on display, with fluttering strings blanketing the thunderous double kick drums and the perfectly syncopated vocals. Somewhere between the enchanting tune and the dense chugging, you find yourself lifted above it all. Whether it is the soaring voice of Cavalieri, or the sea of keyboards provided by Federico Meranda, you are bound to focus on one thing at a time, which is dangerous and may require a few trips through to take it all in. The battle of keys and guitars in the outro, however, is not to be missed.

And while "The Grand March" is exactly that, a call to march forward, it is merely a stepping stone into the next track, "Son Of A Thousand Nights." Constructed from a base of piano keys, there is a beauty and richness to the early stages that carries on throughout. While calling this track a ballad wouldn't be frowned upon, it fits better as a movement in a play, ripe with harmony. The bass line stars here, simple though it may be, driving each passing vocal melody.  Even in the stripped down setting, Claudio Falconcini manages to deliver a blistering piece of fret work. A somber end is a beautiful contrast to the aggression beginnings of "The Fourth Vanguard," a track that boasts some of the heaviest moments the album has to offer. A dynamic allegiance between the booming kick drums and the surgically precise guitar chugging forms, creating boulders of sonic weight that come flying in your direction. That cinematic feel that is so often found in power metal has a home here, both in overall sound, as well as the arching vocal patterns. No piece of this puzzle can stand without the others, a quality that keeps your ears open for every detail. Even when Cavalieri is doing a more standard approach, there is a strength in his voice that commands the track. Lightning fast finger work inhabits the latter half, both on keys and strings, leaving you in a sweat, with mouth agape. A howling wind and ominous warning are all you get in "Dark Horizons," before it is time to move on.

When the foundation begins and ends with keyboards and pianos, as it does in "Majesty," you are balancing precariously. But somehow, as this nine minute epic gets a head of steam, everything falls into place. A number of tempo and tone changes keep every section flowing and fresh. There is an odd element to the keyboard that may bring to mind an eighties prog ballad, but those shortcomings are quickly covered by a barrage of drums, courtesy of Dan Visconti. And if you aren't sure, to this point, just how deep Cavalieri's talent goes, you will get your answer. Our narrator returns in "The Havoc," recapping the destruction. But "Oath To Betray" brings the hammer down with authority. This is the kind of track where the instrumental shines, and singer, for better or worse, is just along for the ride. Through the winding guitar riffs and bass heavy rhythm section, the story advances, even with Cavalieri seeming overpowered. The breakdown portion, complete with stop/start guitar and drum dynamics, pounds the nail down for good. When paired with the very operatic storytelling style of "Led By Light," you have a duo of songs that showcase the best the band has to offer.

Starting the home stretch, "Sacred Fount" follows solemn footsteps. In his prayer, he calls out for the "Moontear Sanctuary," which is, not coincidentally, the next track. This is the building ballad you may have been expecting. Beginning with softly played acoustic guitars, it builds slowly to a simmer, with daring vocal harmonies filling most of the track. As the wall of voices fills your ears, a pulsing drum beat enters to keep time. This isn't a throwaway, however, with a catchy hook cutting through the massive choirs. The final interlude, "Vererath," is the beginning of the end of the story. With middle eastern inspired guitars ringing out, it shines the light on the finale, "Close To The End." In its ten minute plus run time, you get a taste of it all. Cavalieri gives a commanding performance, his voice hitting all of the notes, from the soaring to the solemn. But the band, tighter than ever, takes the proverbial cake here. Falconcini and Meranda duel, weaving in and out of one another. Their fingers twist and tie, float and sting, laying down trails of notes that would make you dizzy to follow. This is the coming to fruition of everything once thought to be a dream. The conclusion to an album that, until three years ago, would have been left unmade.

With the tremendous talent of the next generation of progressive power metal bands, it is almost becoming a forgone conclusion that each and every album will be above expectation. And while this is wholly unrealistic, Wind Rose make it look all too easy. The musicianship is exciting, and the way it all gels together is nothing short of astounding. But what sets "Shadows Over Lothadruin" apart from so many of the other albums you will encounter this year is the balance between storytelling and cohesive metal music. Most acts favor one or the other, leaving the other side of the scale tilted and unsettled. But here, both sides get equal thought, leaving you with an album that sounds larger than life, and may actually be.

9/10

Official Site - http://www.windroseofficial.com/
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/windroseofficial

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APVTH - The Necropolis (2012)

Awesome symphonic black metal music out of Montreal, Canada?! I never would have guessed. APVTH, originally known as A Psycho Voyage Through Hell, has come out with their new album, entitled "The Necropolis." This is the bands third full length album and it contains 8 darkened orchestrated tracks that will blow your mind. Wicked screeching growls backed up by angelic strings and synths and melodic guitars is what this band is all about.

The album opens up with overwhelming guitar riffs that are piled on top of each other throwing you into a world of chaos right from the get. Stings float in the background wild fast drum rolls send double bass patterns and clashing cymbals flying at you. After about a minute in, the instruments mellow out as eerie keyboard come in with dark melodies. The vocals kick off the verse with fast pace black metal screeching. They are covered in filters and reverb giving off a real devilish feel to the track. Raging guitar riffs come soaring back in with mind blowing guitar riffs that run up and down musical scale. The song ends with keyboard melodies that contain some interesting reverse reverb sound effects that add a very dark feel as it comes to an end.

You're then hit with a complex drum opener smashing toms and snares recklessly as the guitars quickly join in afterwards. Relentless snares beat you into the ground giving absolutely no time to breath. This cuts right into the verse with more ominous growls and screeches. The refrain contains some catchy riffs and a light female vocal that hums gently in the background. This definitely gives you that beauty and the beast type of tone. "Revolt And Crucify" comes rushing in with fast pace drum patterns and quick chugging guitar riffs. The vocals knock you off your feet with their violent delivery and screechy tones. In between each verse is this gorgeous set of strings that are accompanied by angelic piano notes that will completely hypnotize you deep into the track. This little break will have you hooked and hitting the repeat button immediately.

You'll come across some angelic instrumentals later throughout the album. "Corpus Hermeticum" and "Valley Of Kings" place you in a whole other world with their beautiful riffs and sound effects. "Valley Of Kings" runs for over four minutes long and has an amazing build up of instruments. The string surround you with comfort while monstrous guitars blast you in the face. The orchestration in this track is absolutely phenomenal.

The final track is actually just an extended version of the first track, "War Machine." They add about a minute and a half onto the track and give a little more of an orchestrated background. Most of the beginning of the track stays the same as the original but soothing flutes and keyboards close out the last minute. They should have just made this track one and left the album at a total of seven tracks.

APVTH has its own sound of unique structures and melodies that really help them stand apart of others. "The necropolis" contains some insane drumming and incredible guitar work that'll definitely have you wanting more. It's topped off with great orchestrated instruments and some powerful and demonic vocals. This is an album worth checking out. You won't be disappointed!

8/10

Official Site - http://officialapvth.wix.com/home
Myspace - http://www.myspace.com/apvth

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SinophiA - Blessed & Cursed (EP) (2012)

Far be it from me to comment on the Serbian metal scene. Somewhere, 4500 miles from where we sit, there is an upswell of bands, looking to make their mark, not only on their brethren, but on fans the world over. SinophiA, a classic power metal act from Novi Sad, the second most populous city in Serbia, are crafting a brand of metal that could be as far reaching as their wildest dreams. Taking their influences from some of the most heralded bands in the world, Iron Maiden, Dio, and Iced Earth, this five piece has garnered a great deal of praise, even given the opportunity to support Tim "Ripper" Owens. So, with the eyes of the world watching, they launch "Blessed & Cursed," a debut EP that may resonate from Serbia, To New York, and beyond.

Leading off with "Void Of Doom," they waste no time mashing together a melodic guitar lead with a distorted rumble beneath it. The squeal of harmonics cuts through, welcoming the vocal lines to the track. Taking on the sound and structure of classic power metal bands, like Judas Priest, the vocals aren't necessarily operatic in any way, but the evidence of range is there even in the weaker moments. Each element, separately, does its job. But there are moments when, layered together, they lose a little bit of their punch. The band seems more at home in the heavy galloping riffs of the breakdown portion, one that is bookended by some good guitar work. The title track, "Blessed & Cursed," is a stand out here, right from the word go. The guitars have tightened up, and the melody that flows throughout the track is catchy, if nothing else. That same thunderous stomp that worked so well before returns, but with vocalist Miodrag Fodora finding his stride. Between the drums, which are suitably busy, and the constant vibration of bass strings, the rhythm section powers the track forward, while the guitars steer you left and right. trhow in a light piano outro, and you have a well rounded offering.

Unlike before, "Hallowed" sees a dramatic increase in tempo, particularly in the raging opening stanza. There is a noticeable change in tone as well, with Fodora's clean vocals being met quite aggressively with some gritty growls. The combination works well, but does leave the instrumental feeling a little weak underneath. This is not to say the backing band has lost any of their drive, but the dueling vocals create a plastic wrap over the guitars, leaving them muffled. A never ending run of double kicks breaks free, opening the flood gates to a bevy of guitar riffs. And while there isn't a single riff that will blow your mind, there are plenty that will, together, get the nod of approval. Not to be outdone, a flowing bass line opens "Warscream," which boasts a larger than life type of sound. Any lack of instrumental dynamics earlier are easily rectified here, with distorted riffs commanding every moment of the track. Everything falls into place, from a dazzling lead to an over the top wailing cry from Fodora. There is a veil of maturity that surrounds this song, aside from an odd grunting pre-chorus.

It's easy to find a sound from the past in the work of Sinophia. They embody so much of classic metal workmanship, as well as the mentality. Just on these four tracks, you can witness a growing, an evolution of the band and their sound. And while it is great for the here and now, it is even better for the future. And even though Serbia might not top our list of metal destinations, with more performances like this one, it very well could. "Blessed & Cursed" found its way thousands of miles to our ears, and shows once again that we don't have a magical telescope that helps us to find bands across the world. Sometimes, their music does the work for them.

7.5/10

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SinophiA
Reverb Nation - http://www.reverbnation.com/sinophia

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Orange Goblin - A Eulogy For The Damned (2012)

In 1997, a band by the name Orange Goblin put out their debut album, entitled "Frequencies From Planet Ten." In 2012, fifteen years later, they have released their seventh full length studio album, entitled "A Eulogy For The Damned," and the band is still going strong. The four piece all the way from England has put out this outstanding new album that has ten tracks full of groovy heavy metal. They also list themselves as psychedelic and stoner rock which you'll definitely hear in their guitars and even certain parts of the vocals.

A burst of distortion hits you in the face in the opening track, "Red Tide Rising." Groovy guitar riffs rumble through your speakers with catchy tunes. Exploding snares and kicks follow with detailed rolls that lead you right into the verse. Aggressive shouting takes over with clear lyrics and a deafening delivery. The chorus will definitely have you hooked the first time you hear it. Upbeat guitar riffs pull you in as shattering cymbals surround you. The guitar solo towards the end will sweep you off your feet as a thumping bass line follows its foot steps with similar groovy melodies. This is definitely the way to open up such a monstrous album.

"Stand For Something" takes over with more wild guitar work and upbeat drums. The kick and snare patterns are absolutely mind blowing. The verses still have a harsh sound to the vocals however they have a little more melody to them as well. The refrain is absolutely catchy as hell and will definitely have you wanting to hit the repeat button immediately. The lyrics are simple and very easy to sing along to. On top of that, the guitars give off a real southern tone to the mix leaving you bobbing your head from front to back. Then you'll come across another ridiculous guitar solo that will completely knock you off your feet. Wild notes are thrown at you in every direction. This is definitely a must hear track.

If you're looking for a track to party to, "The Filthy And The Few" is the track for you. After the short intro of a movie clip, crazy guitars come flying in with reckless distortion. A solid mix of chugging riffs and wild melodies set the perfect scene for reckless partying. The drums beat you into the ground with relentless snares that will have you throwing up your devil horns for sure. This is a classic rock and roll kind of track that gets your blood pumping. "Save Me From Myself" is another awesome track with a a real hard rock kind of feel to it. The vocals come at you with aggressive lyrics and a catchy melody during the chorus. Meanwhile there is constantly catchy guitar notes be played in the background giving much detail to the track. Their complex riffs keep this track unique and interesting. Also the solo just tops everything off perfectly with wild melodies and crazy guitar effects. You'll definitely have it stuck in your head for days.

Later in the album you'll come across some heavy songs like "Death Of Aquarius" and "Bishops Wolf" which you'll definitely want to play with high volume and on some massive speakers. The bass lines and kick patterns are absolutely incredible and will rattle your whole house. Fast up beat tempos will have you up and moving for sure. The verses are short and to the point while the chorus's really stand out with blaring vocals and catchy guitar riffs. "Bishop's Wolf" only runs for four and a half minute long but it sure does pack a punch. Meanwhile your hit with crashing cymbals that collie violently in the background while the snare continues to beat you into the ground. They definitely make the album worth listening to all the way through.

Orange Goblin continues to deliver amazing music and keeps getting better and better. They clearly put a lot of work into "A Eulogy For The Damned" and it came out sounding incredible. If you're looking for some solid rock and roll guitars with some stoner metal influences then you should definitely take some time and check this album out. It's definitely going to be in my CD rotation for a while.

8/10

Official site - http://www.orange-goblin.com/
Bandcamp - http://candlelightrecordsusa.bandcamp.com/album/a-eulogy-for-the-damned

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The Podcast: Episode 58 (Night Is The Great Cold Dead End)

A few wires got crossed, and the team of Jason and Darnell got the wrong time slot for "R&B and Hippity Hop Today." Once that gets cleared up, Justin takes on the new album from DarkTribe (one word), and Darrell dives head first into the new EP from UK favorites Arke. But, as usual, the first podcast of the new month is dedicated to the new BOTM (remember, abbreviation now). So, with a new album in stores now, a huge tour about to get underway, and a back catalog that dwarfs most, September is the month of...

Part 1.

Part 2.

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