Twilightning

'Swinelords'

© 2007 Spinefarm Records

Martone

'When The Aliens Come'

© 2007 Lion Music

Reviewed by Dave Palmer

This is my second review for the band Twilightning. I remember liking the bands previous release, but at the same time felt like things had changed a bit in the bands sound. The bands latest effort 'Swinelords' has a bit more melodic and laid back nature to it. I think this really sounds great too. There are definitely subdued moments, but the band still goes for the throat with more adrenalin pumping tempo as well. The album opens up with the track 'Isolation Shell' which is also the subject of a video on the bands website currently. This is definitely one of the most infectious tracks on the album. I would recommend going to the website and taking a listen. As the album progresses, you get a pretty even feel. Tempo sways a bit here and there, but fits very comfortable in a mid tempo vein. The album has 10 tracks total. I like most of them. Looking at my own favorites, I would include the already mentioned 'Isolation Shell. The title track 'Swinelord' is equally catchy and has a pretty infectious chorus that will have you singing along. 'Reflection of the Cuckoo' is an interesting track. Starts off one way, that switches tempo quickly. Like the feel of that one. 'Not A Word' is another favorite and shows the more melodic side of the band. The acoustic feel of this track is really cool. Very catchy vibe in the chorus area. On the upside of the tempo, I really dig the rocker 'With the Flow'. This tune is a great riff rocker that enjoys a little variance in tempo. The album closer, 'Wounded & Withdrawn' has a great feel to it and closes the album in perfect fashion. The vocal work is pretty cool on this track. All in all, there is a pretty consistent feel to the album. It flows well and would appeal to the hard rock crowd as well as some of the metal fans as well.

Overall

I like this album. It is a bit of a change in sound. It is worth mentioning that the band sound confident and it shows throughout the songwriting. I think this album will have a bit more commercial potential at this point in time. The band are headed in the right direction. Just don't want them to lose sight of where they have been for where they could go. Keep combining those elements as shown on this album and things should be good. Recommended!

More info: Twilightning Official Website ; Spinefarm Records

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Reviewed by Dave Palmer

I remember the first time I heard Dave Martone. I was pretty amazed at his ability to not only shred and show technical prowess, but to also be able to put music together that was fun and entertaining to listen to. When I first took a listen to his latest album 'When the Aliens Come' my confidence in these notions was reaffirmed immediately.  'Starz Scarz' busts this album wide open with it's absolutely huge sounding riffs. As I progressed through the album, one thought came to mind. Going back through music of the past, I can't remember anything this creative since the Frank Zappa stuff. One of the things I like about Martone, is the non reliance on just pure soloing. This guy loves huge riffing and experimenting with sound. Probably why Zappa came to mind although I would say that Martone is a bit more straight forward in delivery. There are those moments though that push the 'weirdness' boundary. How about a track called 'Flatulation Farm'? Sounds rosy eh? The music itself has a few odd sounding moments that only prove to enhance the track. This particular formula works well throughout the album. Without vocals, you have to find some way to keep the listener interested. Creativity works very well at doing just that. As long as Dave Martone continues in the direction he is heading, he will continue to set himself apart from the rest. He is without a doubt technically able on his instrument as is evidenced in 'Techno Beez'. He just never lets things get out of control on a large scale which provides a much more entertaining listen. If you haven't checked this guy out yet, you ought to. Don't shy away due to the preconceived notion of noodling. There's alot to like here.

Overall

As far as guitarists are concerned, Dave Martone is becoming one of my favorites. What made Ed Van Halen stand out in the past is doing things that others don't due to any large extent. Dave Martone is achieving the same thing a quarter of a decade later. His writing is innovative and stunning at the same time. 'When the Aliens Come' ends up being a very enjoyable journey. Definitely recommended!

More info: Dave Martone Official Website ; Lion Music

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