Lockyard

New cassette EP featuring three new tracks + one cover of the one and only Razor. Available on purple tape, 100 copies made.

40 SEK + shipping.

Order at: lockyardrecords[at]gmail.com

Still hot:
Deathman - 3 Track Heavy Metal Tape (Heavy Chains Records, 2nd pressing) 40 SEK
Hypertension - Distant Thunders Call CD (Stormspell Records) 50 SEK
Hypertension - Distant Thunders Call MC (Lockyard Records) 40 SEK
Hypertension - Primeval Tyrants Prevail CD (Stormspell Records) 50 SEK
King Malice - 2 MC (Lockyard Records) 30 SEK
Obsessed Octopus - s/t MC (Lockyard Records) 30 SEK

1/26/16

Hypertension - Worlds Torn Apart

Taken from the upcoming EP "Dark Storms Arise", out soon on Lockyard Records.

1/16/16

Lockyard Best Of 2015 part 3: Albums

1. Tribulation – The Children Of The Night (Century Media)

Third masterpiece in a row by the best band in Sweden. I must admit that I was a bit skeptic toward how they moved even further away from their death metal-roots at first, but the more time I gave it, the more it grew. This band seem to be totally incapable of being anything else than brilliant.

2. Crypt Sermon – Out Of The Garden (Dark Descent)

Seemingly from out of nowhere, this Philadelphia quartet came saw and conquered us all with the best doom metal-album since Procession's To Reap Heavens Apart. A ridiculously strong effort, that most likely will be remembered as one of the milestones from our time in this genre.

3. Bäddat För Trubbel – Två Sjundedelar Av Ett Liv (Ljudkassett)

With an incredibly stripped down, honest and straight forward album, the third album by the Malmö-band was definitely one of the most diverse, engaging and absolutely best albums of 2015.

4. Blind Guardian – Beyond The Red Mirror (Nuclear Blast)

With their previous album being very strong, almost a return to the glory of their olden days (best band of the 90's, all cathegories, if you're asking me), the question was now if that was just a coincidence, or if they would be able to stay on the same high level. And I think they did, Beyond The Red Mirror might be a bit uneven, but the tops are ridiculously high.

5. Kadavar – Berlin (Nuclear Blast)

An album got some heavy rotation during the late summer, and hence slowly but steady grew to become one of my absolute favorites from the year that passed. Perfect album for the heavy rockers.

6. Ram – Svbversvm (Metal Blade)

Long awaited return by the Swedish iron tyrants. 2009's Lightbringer remains my favorite album of theirs, as well as one of the best heavy metal albums released in modern time, but Svbversvm is not far behind. Heavy metal supremacy.

7. Rocka Rollas – Pagan Ritual (Stormspell)

The band with the most insane productivity returns once again. I enjoyed last years The Road To Destruction a lot, but this is definitely their best album so far. We'll see if that curve keeps rising this year, I find it very unlikely that they wont have another album ready quite soon.

8. Iron Maiden – The Book Of Souls (Parlophone)

An album that shouldn't have passed anyone by, that I despite it's ambitious lenght find very qualitative, if not fantastic in its brightest moments. Maybe some parts of the longer tracks could have been shortened a bit, but I don't really consider any of the songs to be fillers. No doubt that the one and only heavy metal masters still has got it.

9. Dark Quarterer - Ithaca (Metal On Metal)

A super bombastic and surprisingly strong album from this cult band from Italy, whose first album should be mandatory in everyone's collection. Better than I ever had hoped for, and containing some tracks that are in the same league with their classics.

10. Circle II Circle - Reign Of Darkness (Ear Music)

The longing for something new from Savatage is as great as always, but the new album by Circle II Circle is an excellent substitute, their best one since the debut. Filled with the characteristic dark riffs and atmosphere that you desperately want more of, just as good from C II C as fromthe ”main” band.

11. Black Trip - Shadowline (SPV)

12. Manilla Road - The Blessed Curse (Golden Core)

13. Terminus - The Reaper's Spiral (Stormspell)

14.Satan's Host - Pre-dating God part II (Moribund)

15. Satan's Host - Pre-dating God part I (Moribund)

16. Enforcer - From Beyond (Nuclear Blast)

17. Lord Fist - Green Eyleen (Ektro)

18. Stonegriff - Come Taste The Blood (Metal On Metal)

19. Imperial State Electric - Honk Machine (Psychout)

20. Trial -Vessel (High Roller)

21. Horisont - Odyssey (Rise Above)

22. Marduk - Frontschwein (Century Media)

23. Arkham Witch - I Am Providence (Metal On Metal)

24. Speedtrap - Straight Shooter (Svart)

25. Ironsword - None But The Brave (Shadow Kingdom)

1/8/16

Arkham Witch – I Am Providence (Metal On Metal 2015 CD)

Before summing up the list of 2015's best albums, I'll have a go with this nice release, since the people at MoM Records always so kindly send me their releases. What we have here is the third album by this exceptional band. Before I even listened to it the first time, I reacted on the tracklist that showed not less than 20 songs, of which most weren't longer than 2-3 minutes. A huge change compared to the one on their previous album, Legions Of The Deep, were the 10 songs were between 2 and 8 minutes long. And when inserting I Am Providence in the CD-player, it quickly becomes clear that more things than the duration of the songs has changed since their last album.

While I consider Legions Of The Deep more or less a pure heavy metal assault (with some hints of doom), and even though it might not be a complete change of their sound, this album has got a whole different vibe. The short and straight forward songwriting makes actually makes me think of punk a lot of times.

Lyrically though, things have basically stayed the same. The fascination of weird tales with a sense of humor always present is something that I guess always will stay intact when it comes to this band. I can't say that I'm very familiar with this kind of fiction they seems to be very obsessed with, other than bumping into such themes in metal-songs every now and then, but I must say that the frequent referring to it in Arkham Witch's songs is something that definitely makes them more memorable. If you're looking for something unique and out of the norm-sounding, I recommend you to check this out. I can't imagine that there's any band out there that sounds even close to this. 7,5/10

P.S. In addition to the new album, a re-issue of it's sold out precursor Legions Of The Deep (Respawned) was also released at the same time. Even though I must say that they really managed to renew themselves in a very interesting way with I Am Providence, I think this one is just a little bit better. I remember listening a lot to this when it came out about three years ago. Such a perfect and powerful fusion of heavy metal, speed metal and doom. The cover art is stunning a well, needs to be released on vinyl! 8/10

1/3/16

Lockyard best of 2015 part 2: Singles, EP's & Demos

5. Lamp Of Thoth – This Is Not Doom! (Sarlaac 2015 MC)

Definitely a worthy swansong (?) from the unchallenged weird lords of strangeness. In addition to this, we've also been blessed with several releases from the closely related Arkham Witch as well, so I feel relieved to know that the weird spirit lives on.

4. Zodiac – Stone Command (Heavy Chains 2015 MC)

Phenomenal demo from this Australian band which delivers doom of absolutely finest quality, a tape that shouldn't be missed by any worshiper of the genre. Just listen to The Noose, and you'll be convinced in a matter of seconds.

3. Terminal – Satanski Narocila (Ljudkassett 2015 MC)

A re-invention of the first praised single, released last year, that succeeds to follow it up without a doubt. I never thought that it would be possible to top Heavy Metal Lokomotiva, but the title track of this tape is just as good.

2. The Dahmers - Terror On Wheels (Lovely 2015 7”)

Yet another sign of strength from these messy rock 'n' rollers. The Ripper is definitely one of the most frequently played tracks of 2015 by yours truly. Hope to see a new LP this year.

1. Herzel – Unis Dans La Gloire (Impous Desecration 2015 MC)

Even though I really enjoyed the rest of the releases on tbis list, and some others too, none of them were really quite close to this one. The two majestic tracks on this tape is the best French metal I've heard since the glory days of bands like Sortilège and ADX. The band that we most desperately need an album from right now!

12/25/15

Lockyard best of 2015 part 1: Compilations & Re-issues

5. Prophecy - Whom Gods Destroy - Demos 1985-1986 (Majesté 2015 LP)

This LP compiles both demos released in 1985 and -86 by Denmark's Prophecy. Seven tracks of dark and ominous heavy metal, on the borderline to doom. Judging by the quality of these recordings, they could definitely have become Denmark's equivalent to Candlemass, but unfortunately things didn't really turn out that way. But with this fantastic release you've got the chance to put your hands on some of the best heavy metal to ever emerge from this country, along with Mercyful Fate and Witch Cross.

4. Heathen's Rage – Knights Of Steel – The Anthology (No Remorse 2015 DCD)

Their legendary MLP, originally released in 1985, finally available for us who can't afford a copy of the original pressing, along with lots of unreleased demos. Very high qualitative classic US metal. Feels a little bit unnecessary to include every version of each song they've done though, in some cases there's actually up to three different recordings of the same song. But that's a minor problem, nothing that should stop anyone from getting this historical piece of US steel.

3. Sarcasm – Burial Dimensions (Dark Descent 2015 DCD)

Enormous compilation that includes everything this band ever recorded. Honestly, I've spent most time listening to the unreleased tracks from what was supposed to be their debut album, but for some reason never got released. It's definitely a very impressive work of traditional Swedish death metal with a touch of blackness. Bands like Dissection, Dawn and Evocation comes to mind. I definitely expect to find some gold whenever I find the time to listen through the demos as well!

2. Stone Vengeance – s/t (HTH Productions 2015 DCD)

Now this is some of the most interesting stuff I've come across in a long time. This is yet another compilation that I assume features more or less everything they recorded, and like the Heathen's Rage comp, there's a bit too many versions of the same songs. But just the To Kill Evil-demo makes this an absolutely must-buy. This completely insane trio was formed in 1978 in San Fransisco, and was active during the glorious thrash metal days that we all know about. It almost seems impossible that something as unique as this could even exist among all the trendfollowing and genericness that was going on there and then. I don't even know how to describe it, maybe as a mix between Slayer's Show No Mercy and Judas Priest's Defenders Of The Faith. Do yourselves a favour and don't miss this for all that you're worth.

1. Silver Mountain – Before The Storm (Buried By Time And Dust 2015 LP)

Shakin' Brains, Silver Mountain's debut album is a record that most people who has got the slightesst interest in Swedish heavy metal from the 80's probably own. Now Buried By Time And Dust has re-issued the rather more obscure demo they recorded in 1980. Four of the songs later also appeared on the LP, and one was on the B-side of their '79 single, but otherwise there's lots of killer previously unreleased tracks to be found here. Some of them insanely fast and heavy to be released as early as 1980. overall, I'd say that this is just as good as their first LP, maybe even better.

12/10/15

Deathman re-press out now!

Our Australian comrades at Heavy Chains Records have now released the second pressing of the Deathman - 3 Track Heavy Metal Tape. Available at their webshop:

http://www.heavychainsrecords.com/shop/tapes/deathman/

People located in the US can also get it from Cagliari Records. Don't know if there's any European distros yet, but we'll have a few copies for sale when the label is updated with new releases!

12/8/15

偏執症者 (Paranoid) - Criminal Trap (Anti Cimex cover)

11/27/15

Review: The Dahmers – Terror On Wheels (Lovely 2015 7”)

Following up the brilliant LP from last year, here's the new 7-inch EP by The Dahmers. Musically, it doesn't really contains any surprises, the vintage garage punk rock sound is still intact. The tracks on the A-side, The Ripper and Hit 'n' Run are two typical Dahmers-tunes sound wise, and when it comes to hit potential, I doubt either of them will leave anyone disappointed.

On side B though, I think the first song Howling stands out as one of the most calm and laid back songs they've done. Not band in any way though, it rather adds some overall diversity to the release. The video they did for it is absolutely fantastic as well. And just to make sure no one thinks they've become to soft, this seven inch is rounded off with a total killer in form of I Spit On Your Grave, which in contrast to Howling is rather one of their fastest and most aggressive songs so far, almost a pure punk song. So, in conclusion, a great effort by this splendid band that shows some signs of development and still keeps up the winning concept from their LP without repeating themselves too much. 8/10

11/22/15

Review: Absolut – Hell's Highest Power (D-takt & Råpunk 2015 LP)

An album that has been spinning a lot recently is the second album by these Toronto-punks. To take the easy way out, it could be described as a hell of a raw d-beat assault, which is never quite wrong. But it also contains some interesting elements that makes it stand out a bit from the thypical rawpunk standards. Hints towards metal and some surprisingly melodic tinges here and there makes the songs leave a more memorable impression. The B-side is rounded off in a nice atmospheric way with the instrumental Shadows, which gives you the chance to catch your breath for a moment, before the madness continues again.

Adding the very high qualitative and constantly innovative riffs that feels very worked through, as well as the unified layout, and you've got a very nice release. Their side of the split LP they released quite recently with some shitty Swedish band can also be recommended, check that one out as well! 7/10

11/2/15

偏執症者 (Paranoid) - Too Old Too Cold (Darkthrone cover)

10/25/15

偏執症者 (Paranoid) - Satyagraha, 12" OUT NOW!

Order at: pndftw@gmail.com

US-press available at Konton Crasher.

10/21/15

Review: Zodiac – Stone Command (Heavy Chains 2015 MC)

Time for a bit of doom from down under. Zodiac's second demo starts of with a characteristic slow intro before, about a minute into The Noose, the most crushing and intense riff I've heard in a long time reveals itself and hits you like a battering ram. Once you've recovered from that, what awaits is three tracks of finest quality doom metal. Which might not say that much, since it's a very wide musical genre with many different approaches.

But to give you the best idea of Zodiac, I'd say that it sounds very British. Bands like Witchfinder General and The Lamp Of Thoth constantly comes to mind while listening to this tape. Some hints of Saint Vitus can also be found, and the final track Legacy reminds of more epic bands like Candlemass and Solstice. The observant people have probably noticed that I just mentioned five of the best bands of all time, so if that doesn't make you want to check this band out, I don't know what will.

Give it a listen and buy yourself a copy. 8/10

10/19/15

Review: Ironsword – None But The Brave (Shadow Kingdom 2015 MC)

Portugal's metal warriors Ironsword are back after a few years of slumber with their fourth album. For me personally, this is the first of their albums that I've bought, but judging by the cover and album/song-titles, I was quite sure what kind of music I expected. And very well, the heaviest and most epic of metal in the vein of the eternal masters Manowar, Omen and Manilla Road is what Ironsword spends their time making. Rough, barbaric and only for those who think they're tough enough.

The songwriting is overall great, most songs are memorable. The biggest strengh is that it's a very consistent album, which means that it maybe not reaches the highest of mights, but doesn't really have any actual lows/fillers either. The downside is that sometimes it just get too derivative of their obvious influences. In the title-track they have even borrowed some lyrics from Omen's Battle Cry. Sure, that may have been intended to be some kind of tribute, but it feels a bit unoriginal, if not a even a bit sacrilegious, to re-use the lines from such a monumental classic. Also, the opening Forge The Sword is almost on the borderline of stolen from Necropolis by you know who. Some of the backing vocalists are actually very reminiscent of Mark Shelton in an almost uncanny way. I think that's pretty cool though, since he doesn't really sound like that anymore. If Manilla Road needs a new frontman, this backing vocals-guy would probably be the man for the job. To wrap it up, original or not, Ironsword delivers a great heavy metal album worthy of none but the brave. The rest of their discography is added to my “check out” list. 7/10

10/9/15

Review: Funeral Circle / Gatekeeper – Hades Triumphant / Bell Of Tarantia (War On Music 2015 7”)

This split 7” contains one track each with two epic and superb Canadian acts. What I was most excited about with this release was definitely to hear the new track by Funeral Circle, whose self-titled debut album was one of the strongest releases of 2013.

When I heard the news that their vocalist had quit the band I was a bit worried, but that went by quickly when they announced that he would be replaced by JP from the magnificent Borrowed Time (RIP(?)). A match made by the gods, and the first taste of the new Funeral Circle, Hades Triumphant, is nothing but an outstanding anthem. Compared too their earlier material, it draws a bit more towards epic metal rather than doom, which I don't mind at all. Too many mediocre doom bands out there, and even though they earlier stood way above mediocrity, I think that this new chosen path will take them to all new levels. We need a new LP as soon as possible!

Gatekeeper is a new acquaintance for me, but the opening riff of their side of the split, Bell Of Tarantia, is just brilliant. Not much to complain about when it comes to the rest of the song either, epic and grand heavy metal just the way I love it. Definitely deserves its place on the same wax as Funeral Circle, really need to check out their split with Eternal Champion as well. I'll post a review of that here as well when it happens.

10/1/15

偏執症者 (Paranoid) - Arise (Sepultura cover)

9/7/15

Review: Deathhammer – Evil Power (Hells Headbangers 2015 CD)

Satan is back(!), and so is Norway's finest with a new album of deathrashing mayhem. This is without a doubt a band that you always can trust, with each new release you find it impossible that they would deliver anything else than a brutal and savage thrash metal album. Once again they also make sure to never abandon the fundamental heavy metal aspects in their songs, which makes them stand out even more from the typical standard retro thrash.

If there's anything I'd be critical towards, it's probably the production, which isn't really bad by any means, but I liked the sound of Onward Into The Pits a bit more. It had those slightly more distant and very reverberate vocals, on this album they are a bit too high. But what's really important is the songwriting, which as mentioned earlier is just as good as you possibly could expect. Songs like Warrior's Of Evil, Sinner's Possession and Rot In Shreds can immediately be added right to the list of their classics. I've heard rumours that they already have recorded their next album, wouldn't mind it getting released as soon as possible. Can't get enough of this band! 8/10

9/6/15

Deathman - 3 Track Heavy Metal Tape SOLD OUT!

Yes, all copies of the Deathman tape are now gone, thanks to everyone who bought it! Still available from Tape Worship though, so act fast if you want a copy!

Sidor

5/29/16

2/26/16