Welsh metal titans Bullet For My Valentine have returned after a two year break with an absolute belter of a track. No Way Out is taken from Bullet's upcoming album Venom, which will be released on August 14th.
No Way Out kicks off with an instant impact, as singer Matt Tuck roars "No Way Out" to which the rest of the band accompany with pure angst. Immediately the track contains older and more brutal elements from Bullet, reminiscent of defining album The Poison.
With the implementation of new bassist Jamie Mathias, it has created an even deeper sound in Bullet's music.
Also, in true Bullet fashion, the chorus is strong and the melodies and subtle harmonies add prominent layers to the song. There are influences of Avenged Sevenfold throughout which further portrays the feistiness and edginess of the song.
Despite the brutality throughout, it is clear that No Way Out will receive a large amount of radio play and the mainstream will take it under its wing.
The older fans will see the appeal of No Way Out, and newer fans will follow suit and jump on the Bullet bandwagon. It is evident that the song has been well thought out and Bullet are truly back with an album that will regain them their spot at the top of the British metal roster.
Also catch Bullet For My Valentine on their UK and Ireland tour during September and October. Tickets go on sale Friday 22rd May.
There is always a sense of pride felt when you see an underground artist getting the recognition they deserve. After discovering Rag'N'Bone Man when he was providing vocals for Brighton based rap collective Rum Committee, it was evident that his soulful voice had to receive full exposure.
Disfigured is a landmark in Rag'N'Bone Man's career. Even with a stellar back catalogue, including his Wolves EP, he has managed to top it all and raise the bar with just four songs.
Each track encapsulates an array of emotions, portrayed brilliantly by Rag'N'Bone. His voice is undeniably full of power and passion, with an essence of the finest Blues artists dripping through it. The music arrangements work majestically, as clearly heard in the emotive Perfume, which is stripped-down, yet extremely compelling.
Lead track Hard Came The Rain is more forceful and rock-driven, however the lyrical content and the barrage of instruments creates a true musical spectacle.
Bitter End has a slight hip-hop feel contained within the instruments, but Rag'N'Bone's melody and the backing choir provide a further depth to a simplistic layout. The live version of Bitter End which can be found on his YouTube page is magical and demonstrates Rag'N'Bone's raw ability.
To close the EP, title track Disfigured shows the pinnacle of a truly incredible talent. Rag'N'Bone's voice is one that will show the takeover of up-and-coming acts. The chorus of Disfigured is haunting but it will certainly be stuck in your head.
The versatility of one performer is phenomenal and this EP is a testament to just how talented Rag'N'Bone Man is and he will become a household name in due time.
British rock music undoubtedly has an extensive pool of talent, but this year belongs to Fort Hope. The Hertfordshire act consisting of Jon Gaskin, Jamie Nicholls and Simon Rowlands are undeniably talented and The Rapture clearly demonstrates their musical abilities.
Combine Gaskin's unique but incredible vocal melodies and runs with powerful, slightly syncopated drumming and awe-inspiring guitar tones, then you have the perfect ingredients for a brilliant rock song.
The Rapture depicts Fort Hope's mammoth sound and their individuality which is a rare trait to have in rock music nowadays. Also their ability to get a chorus ingrained into your head is complimentary to their music.
Make sure you catch Fort Hope during festival season as they are appearing at a number of festivals over the UK this summer. I'll be there at 2000 Trees, witnessing an incredible act live.
Festival season is swiftly approaching and nothing gets us more excited for summer. On June 12th, the legendary Download Festival opens its gates to tens of thousands of mental rock and metal fans for their annual routine, which consists of drinking and going insane whilst rocking out to their favourite bands.
Undoubtedly my favourite festival, Download never manages to disappoint. The line-up is always incredibly strong and this year proves to be no different. I will be taking you through what I consider to be the best acts to catch during the weekend and the one to avoid, to ensure you all have the best time.
Without further ado, here is FourPlay's Download Festival Preview.
Best Headliner - Muse
This year is by far one of the strongest line-ups, especially in terms of headliners. Download always have surprises for us when putting on a varied crop of bigger bands. Last year we had Avenged Sevenfold, the year before we had Rammstein, so Download really do know how to mix it up. Festival organiser Andy Copping has really pulled it out of the bag this year, with the inclusion of British rock giants Muse.
Having never headlined Download before, there is a huge buzz around Muse playing in June. Notorious for their phenomenal live sets, we are certain that Muse will not disappoint. It may not directly cater to the demographic, but those who doubt Muse will be shocked when they hear not only how great they are live, but they can also bring the heavy. Download will see just why Muse are deserved of that Saturday headlining slot.
Listen to Stockholm Syndrome here:
Best from Main Stage - Rise Against
This band are no strangers to the festival scene and Download once again welcomes them with open arms after a three year absence. American rockers Rise Against are taking to the main stage this year and their show promises to be a highlight. With massive songs in their arsenal such as Saviour, Prayer Of The Refugee and I Don't Want To Be Here Anymore, they will be the band to initiate sing-a-longs. Rise Against's set will be guaranteed fun and one that everyone will remember for a long time.
Listen to Prayer Of The Refugee here:
Best from Second Stage - Lamb of God
One of the heaviest and most respected in their field, Lamb of God are finally back at Download. This is an announcement which has got every metal fan on the edge of their seats in anticipation and excitement. Lamb of God are known to tear up the stage and get the crowd going nuts, especially at Download. Check out videos of their 2007 set at Donington and you will see exactly why this band get booked regularly. The perfect act to have at the tail-end of Sunday to add diversity to the Classic Rock day. I'll see you guys in the pit, best of luck.
Listen to Walk With Me In Hell here:
Upcoming act - Beartooth
The last couple of years have seen a huge resurgence in acts from the rock and metal scene. There are bands left, right and centre who are breaking boundaries and bringing heavier music the recognition it deserves. One of the most exciting acts from last year are Beartooth and they are bringing their erratic live shows to the UK. The tent/3rd stage is the ideal place for a band the size of Beartooth's to play. The atmosphere will be electric and it will kick-start your weekend in perfect style. They have brilliant songs which will make for an amazing set at Download.
Listen to In Between here:
Act to avoid - Black Veil Brides
There is always an act which you find yourself immediately wanting to dismiss. This year the unanimous decision leans towards Black Veil Brides. It was a bold choice to include them on this year's bill, and yes it may be to some people's taste, but the general consensus will be to watch Faith No More on the main stage instead.
For this week's Track of the Week we present you with a hard-hitting song from 2010 from California's own Letlive.
The post hardcore act wrote Muther for their album Fake History, at a time where frontman Jason Butler was going through turbulent times. The song itself is about his mother and the unfortunate events she experienced with another man.
Muther is a powerful song that can evoke an array of emotions due to its lyrical content and quick change in pace, but most importantly it is an iconic anthem for Letlive. fans and one that will always be cemented as a fan favourite.
