Category: news
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Ache is Highroad No. 28’s Single Out Now
Good Day Noir Family,
Highroad No. 28 return with “Ache,” a track that shows how easily the band can merge grit, nostalgia, and atmosphere into something strikingly personal.Ache is Highroad No. 28’s Single Out Now
The song opens with a hypnotic groove that circles around you like a slow pulse. Soon after, airy pads drift in, adding a clear nod to the ’80s and to the icy tension of classic Carpenter scores.
Because of this mix, the track builds an environment that feels suspended between neon-lit retro memories and a more modern, emotionally charged intensity.
When the vocal enters, everything tightens. The reverb gives it a distant, ghostlike shimmer, yet the delivery stays steady and warm. It’s an interesting contrast: the voice sits between intimacy and detachment, and that duality shapes the entire mood. Moreover, the tone carries hints of those darker pop influences—somewhere between the introspective edge of Depeche Mode and the theatrical spirit of Bowie—yet Highroad No. 28 transform those inspirations into something very much their own.
The guitars bring another crucial layer. Distorted but never overwhelming, they throb gently underneath the production, adding body and direction without taking the spotlight. Their presence gives the track a sense of motion, as if you’re traveling through an endless highway at night with only city glow and passing memories to guide you. It’s this combination of rhythmic drive and dreamlike texture that makes the track so addictive.
As the chorus expands, the song gains emotional weight without relying on excess. The band’s restraint becomes a strength, because “Ache” grows through atmosphere, not volume. Each element is placed with intention: bass lines that anchor, pads that create tension, and guitars that carve out a subtle sense of drama. You feel drawn into a reflective inner world where unresolved thoughts echo and stretch.
By the end, the track has painted a portrait of restlessness, longing, and quiet resilience. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to get in the car, disappear for a while, and let the road decide where you end up. Highroad No. 28 deliver a piece that balances darkness with beauty, nostalgia with edge, and introspection with raw motion.
Ache is Highroad No. 28’s Single Out Now!
Intense!
Highroad No. 28 is an Australian heavy rock band formed in 1998. Their early EPs and debut album, Unsteady and Steady State (2005), established a sound marked by emotional intensity, melodic experimentation, and a defiant edge. After extensive touring, the band released Stumbling to Divinity in 2008, blending heavy rhythms with ambient and electronic elements.
Following a long hiatus from 2012 to 2024—broken only by occasional demos and reworked tracks—Highroad No. 28 returns in 2025 with renewed focus. They are preparing for their first live shows in over a decade and finishing their third album, The Will to Endure, set for release in December 2025. The new single “Ache,” signals their powerful comeback.
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Sexy Monster or Scary Sewer Clown?
Should horror scare you or turn you on? That was the question I had after a weekend of watching both Frankenstein and the new series Welcome to Derry. After crawling through endless social media posts where people fawned over the new design of the monster, I decided to at least give the new Frankenstein movie a chance. Not only was I bored throughout its entirety, but I wondered if its rave reviews were based on the fact that it featured a monster who was more Paris runway model than hideously horrific creature. Either way, the film left me terribly deflated and eager for something to fill that void. Thankfully, the show Welcome to Derry has done a successful job at keeping the horror alive, along with my attention span.
Where Frankenstein failed to find any frights, the Derry show kept me on the edge of my couch in certain moments, wincing at the screen at such disgusting displays of beautiful brutality. Frankenstein tried to weave several threads into its story that didn’t make sense to me. The female character bounces from Dr. Frankenstein’s brother to Dr. Frankenstein himself and then suddenly shifts her love interest to a creature she met for all of five minutes. This rapid change of devotion left me feeling hollow and unsympathetic toward her character, something that most likely shaped how I viewed the rest of the story.
Welcome to Derry, on the other hand, has done a brilliant job of not only weaving in several Stephen King easter eggs, but it’s played out almost like reading a King novel. The pacing is steady and building toward something, all while keeping you tense and eager to see what’s around the corner, despite how creepy or disturbing it may be. The show subverts expectations and creates characters that linger in your mind after you watch, at least for me anyway. I understand art is totally subjective, but that’s the whole purpose of this article: to share my perspective toward two giants of the genre who are sharing the spotlight.
My own personal disdain aside, I am glad to see Frankenstein is doing well, and people are praising director Guillermo del Toro for his passionate efforts on a film he’s been wanting to make for ages. The man has been a blessing for the horror community, and his work will live on as some of the greatest the genre has ever seen. On the other side of the coin, you have a director in Andy Muschietti who has seemingly found his footing in these Stephen King stories. While IT: Chapter 2 didn’t perform as well as the first entry, it’s clear from this new series that he has his finger on the racing pulse of not just King’s work, but his fans’ yearning to dive headfirst into the vast universe King created over the years.
If I were to recommend either entry, I would start with Welcome to Derry if you are interested in long format storytelling with gruesome surprises around every corner. If you are someone with a taste for more theatrics, almost that of a stage performance, I would easily recommend Frankenstein. The acting is over the top, and the story embraces that intense portrayal of theatricality, which at times for me was cringe worthy, but the reviews don’t lie, and plenty of people are praising it for reasons well beyond my own understanding.
Whichever you choose to watch, I feel as if they are both great examples of how the horror genre is still as strong as ever. It wasn’t long ago when the thought of mentioning a horror movie for Best Picture at the Oscars was as uncommon as Dracula eating at the Olive Garden, but here we are. We live in a time when horror is not only abundant, but truly capable of going toe to toe with even the snootiest of dramas. As a lifelong fan of horror movies, that makes me as happy as Pennywise with a sewer full of souls.
The post Sexy Monster or Scary Sewer Clown? appeared first on Autumns Eyes.
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Metal Blade Records Launches Limited Run of Erik Rutan / Mana Recording Studios Merch Items
– November 10th, 2025 –
Metal Blade Records has teamed up with renowned artist Vince Locke to create designs for exclusive merchandise that the legendary label will sell for Erik Rutan – guitarist in Cannibal Corpse and famed Producer at MANA RECORDING Studios – who suffered severe damage by Hurricane Helene in 2024.
The below items are Erik Rutan approved and available for fans HERE, with all money collected going directly to Erik to help him replace studio and musical gear for a new Mana Recording Studios– gear that Erik has used to produce a massive list of metal albums over the last two plus decades at Mana Recording.
• Erik Rutan – MANA RECORDING Studios Snap Back Hat
• Erik Rutan – Vince Locke (Signed Print) 11×17
Limited edition 60 signed prints, Vince Locke created and gifted this image, signed by both Vince and Erik
• Erik Rutan – MANA RECORDING Studios T-Shirt
• Erik Rutan – Vince Locke Original Design T-Shirt
Vince Locke created and gifted this imagehttps://www.metalblade.com/erikrutan
https://www.manarecording.comABOUT ERIK RUTAN – PRODUCER | GUITARIST | VISIONARY:
Erik Rutan is one of extreme metal’s most respected and multi-dimensional forces-renowned not only for his blistering guitar work and songwriting in legendary bands Hate Eternal, Morbid Angel, and Cannibal Corpse, but also as a prolific producer and founder of Mana Recording Studios, where he’s helped shape the sound of death metal for decades.Rutan began his career in the late ’80s with Ripping Corpse, appearing on their influential Dreaming with the Dead (1991), then playing as a touring guitarist with Morbid Angel for Covenant (1993). Rutan then joined permanently to record the classic albums Domination (1995), Entangled In Chaos (1996), and Gateways To Annihilation (2000). In 1997, he formed Hate Eternal, taking on guitar, vocals, and full creative control. In 2002, Rutan left Morbid Angel to focus on Hate Eternal and Mana Recording Studios. The band’s discography-Conquering the Throne, King of All Kings, I, Monarch, The Perilous Fight, Fury & Flames, Phoenix Amongst the Ashes, Infernus, and Upon Desolate Sands-has cemented Rutan‘s reputation as a technical innovator and one of death metal’s most uncompromising architects.
Equally revered behind the console, Rutan opened his recording studio in 1999 and founded Mana Recording Studios in St. Petersburg, FL. The studio has since become a premiere destination for extreme music, hosting sessions for a who’s who of death metal as well as other styles of music. His production, engineering and mixing credits include a staggering list of landmark albums: Cannibal Corpse (Kill, Evisceration Plague, Torture, Red Before Black, Violence Unimagined, Chaos Horrific), Goatwhore (A Haunting Curse, Carving Out the Eyes of God, Blood for the Master, Constricting Rage of the Merciless), Krisiun (Conquerors of Armageddon, Forged In Fury), Soilent Green (Confrontation, Inevitable Collapse in the Presence of Conviction), Madball (Empire, Rebellion), Into The Moat (The Design, The Campaign) Tombs (Savage Gold, The Grand Annihilation) Agnostic Front, The Mountain Goats, Vital Remains, Belphegor, Through the Eyes of the Dead, Rivers of Nihil, Ether Coven, Aeon, Ephel Duath, Nile, Black Fast, Lizzy Borden as well as the entire Hate Eternal catalog among many others.
Known for his precision and intensity in the studio, Rutan is a demanding producer with an ear for both brutality and nuance. “I work musicians very hard, because I want them to exceed their own expectations,” he said in an interview with Mix Magazine. “I believe we all need to be pushed to achieve our greatest moments, whether internally or by an outside source,” he says. “I think most people don’t even realize their own potential, and when pushed in a positive and reassuring and reaffirming fashion, you can capture absolute brilliance.” Rutan continued… “I really believe in trying to maintain and preserve the integrity of the performances at that moment in time.” Krisiun drummer Max Kolesne enthused, “Erik… was able to get the best out of each one of us… he did a really great job“. His sonic approach balances organic energy with razor-sharp clarity, making his productions and mixes both punishing and refined. Goatwhore Vocalist Sammy Duet and bassist Ben Falgoust noted: “He makes us work really, really, really hard. Erik just knows how to capture our sound, he becomes a fifth member of the band“.
In 2019, after years of collaboration, Rutan started to tour with Cannibal Corpse as touring guitarist and then in 2021 joined as a full-time guitarist, making his recording debut as a member with Violence Unimagined and also Chaos Horrific. He contributed rhythm and lead guitar as well as songwriting on 3 tracks for each album, while also producing, engineering and mixing the albums-earning widespread acclaim. “Erik’s influence and musical knowledge have elevated everything around us,” bassist Alex Webster said. “He brings a work ethic and vision that’s unmatched.”
Despite his commitments to Cannibal Corpse, Rutan remains devoted to Hate Eternal and Mana Recording Studios. “Hate Eternal is my life’s work,” he told Premier Guitar. “And producing-that’s where I channel a different part of my creativity. I want to help bands create the best version of themselves.” With a legacy that spans multiple roles and generations, Rutan continues to define and redefine the sound of extreme metal-both onstage and behind the scenes in the studio.
About Metal Blade Records:
Founded upon owner Brian Slagel‘s enduring drive to find great bands and get their music out to as many people as possible, since 1982 Metal Blade has brought wave after wave of powerful, innovative, and often genre-defining music to the ever-hungry metal masses. It is this ethos that has seen Metal Blade build up a stunning and diverse catalog, weather the various storms facing any independent label, and in an age of declining record sales boast the most successful years of its existence as it celebrates its fourth decade.Metal Blade Records launched Metallica, Slayer, Armored Saint, Fates Warning, GWAR, Cannibal Corpse, Amon Amarth, Whitechapel, The Black Dahlia Murder, Cattle Decapitation, and dozens more genre giants, shaping four decades and counting of hard rock, metal, and extreme music culture. Brian Slagel worked as a record store clerk when he founded Metal Blade in 1982, reserving a spot for a young Lars Ulrich on his Metal Massacre compilation series. Metal Blade grew from humble beginnings in Los Angeles to become an international powerhouse, selling millions of albums while remaining fiercely independent. In 2017, Slayer‘s Kerry King inducted the label into the Hall of Heavy Metal History. Slagel’s For the Sake of Heaviness: The History of Metal Blade Records arrived the same year.
In 2022 Metal Blade Records celebrated its 40th Anniversary by way of two live shows in Las Vegas – one featuring Killswitch Engage and another featuring Sacred Reich. In addition to these two packed live shows/parties, the label reissued its first release, the compilation album Metal Massacre, plus specially branded 40th Anniversary small batch vodka and rum, and a West Coast style IPA beer. Brian Slagel also saw the release of his second book, Swing of the Blade: More Stories from Metal Blade Records that was released on May 9th and was met with rave reviews from fans and press alike. One fan on Good Reads called the book “a sentimental journey through Brian’s metal origin-story recollections from his deep and wide perspective as founder of Metal Blade that I enjoyed very much” while MetalTalk.net wrote that “Swing Of The Blade is an endearing, honest, and enjoyable journey into the deeper world of Brian Slagel, the main man behind the legendary Metal Blade Records…this is very much Brian in his own words, recounting tales from the early days of Metal Blade through to a brief post-pandemic epilogue, where he expresses his regret that the book hasn’t coincided with the 40th anniversary of the label.” To round out the celebration, Brian Slagel opened up the label’s collection of heavy metal memorabilia to fans in Las Vegas, NV, marking the opening of the official Metal Blade Records Museum that is open every Saturday.
The celebration rolled over into 2023 and in October AXS TV picked up and premiered the Denise Korycki documentary of Metal Massacre: The Story Behind the Legendary Album. Packed with all-star interviews, rare photos, the film tells the story of the groundbreaking 1982 Metal Massacre vinyl compilation-a sonic celebration of the burgeoning Los Angeles Metal scene, which helped launch the careers of iconic acts Metallica and Ratt, and ultimately led to the birth of the legendary independent record label Metal Blade Records. The film boasts priceless commentary and anecdotes from Metal Blade founder Brian Slagel and his friend and collaborator John Kornarens, two metalheads with a dream who made Metal Massacre a reality; as well as Metallica members Lars Ulrich and James Hetfield; Ratt frontman Stephen Pearcy; and Black N’ Blue singer Jamie St. James, among many others.
In 2024, Metal Blade Records and Pantheon Media launched the “100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal” Podcast to the excitement of metalheads everywhere. The successful podcast, which is loved by fans, industry, and artists alike, is hosted by Brian Slagel, CEO of Metal Blade Records. Each episode of the series will spotlight one of the most defining songs in metal, blending artist interviews, expert analysis, and behind-the-scenes insights. Listeners are taken on a deep dive into the production, cultural impact, and legacy of each track, with insights from prominent voices like music historian Martin Popoff and producer Jay Ruston.
The podcast features exclusive appearances from musicians who either influenced or were influenced by these legendary tracks, ensuring fans a unique, all-encompassing exploration of metal music. From Metallica and Slayer to Cannibal Corpse and Alice Cooper, “100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal” covers the songs that have defined generations, blending narrative storytelling with in-depth analyses. This podcast also serves as a tribute to the fans whose passion fuels the genre and keeps it alive for future generations.
“100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal” is now available on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music.
Find Metal Blade Records at:
Official Website | Official Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube
Spotify | BlueSky | Twitter | Threads | TikTok | Museum -
Island is Ezra Vancil’s Single Out Now
Good Day Noir Family,
Ezra Vancil’s “Island” unfolds like a warm breeze drifting in from a distant shore — gentle, nostalgic, and wrapped in soft mystery.Island is Ezra Vancil’s Single Out Now
The track opens with a tremolo-kissed chord that sets a vintage tone, reminiscent of the dreamy, cinematic tension you might find in classic Nancy Sinatra recordings.
That single gesture prepares the ground for an experience that refuses to rush; instead, it invites you into a slow, luminous world that feels suspended between memory and dream.
As the song gains shape, the background vocals slide in with a delicate, enveloping touch. They float like sea foam, adding an ethereal glow that feels intimate and spacious. The atmosphere becomes almost timeless, as though the track belongs equally to the present and an old reel of film you once found tucked away in a drawer.
The tropical hints arrive subtly. Spanish-language lines shimmer through the mix, offering a gentle shift in color and giving the track a sun-washed, borderless feel. These short phrases add personality and frame the song in a place where cultures meet — halfway between a Caribbean lullaby and European dream-pop. The result is a delicate limbo where you sway without thinking, encouraged by the smooth, patient rhythm.
The guitar plays a crucial role, stretching out long notes that feel like sunlight sliding across water. Meanwhile, the groove encourages a soft, side-to-side sway, the kind you fall into naturally when a melody feels honest and unforced. Vancil’s interpretation brings emotional warmth without ever leaning into excess; he trusts the arrangement to breathe, and that trust pays off.
The video enhances the experience beautifully. Seeing the artist on a beach, singing as the wind moves around him, intensifies the feeling that the listener is being personally serenaded. It’s calm, inviting, and grounded — a visual extension of the song’s emotional core.
Near the end, the megaphone-styled vocal effect adds a surprising touch. It brings to mind artists like Manu Chao, introducing a street-folk texture that widens the song’s universe without breaking its serenity. The transition feels organic and deepens the narrative.
“Island” is soft, nostalgic, dream-drenched, and effortlessly atmospheric — a thoughtful track that feels like flipping through sun-faded polaroids of moments you’re sure you’ve lived before.
Island is Ezra Vancil’s Single Out Now!
Intense!
Ezra Vancil is an award-winning Texas songwriter whose music blends raw Americana storytelling with intimate, cinematic production. His new double album, Morning & Midnight—recorded in a secluded East Texas cabin—traces a decade-long journey from heartbreak to renewal. A finalist in the International Songwriting Competition and Kerrville New Folk, and a winner in Unsigned Only and the NewSong Competition, Ezra has shared his work at SXSW and stages across the U.S. Featuring contributions from Chris Brush, Jon Estes, Ty Richards, and his daughter Cozi Vancil, the album is available in limited release with new singles rolling out monthly.
Find Ezra Vancil Here:
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Paint is Pennan Brae’s Album Out Now!
Good Day Noir Family,
Pennan Brae’s new album Paint feels like opening an old trunk filled with retro treasures, each track carrying a splash of color from another era while still sounding vividly alive.Paint is Pennan Brae’s Album Out Now!
The opener, “It Ain’t Perfect But It’s Free,” hooks you with its warm, loose groove rooted in the golden age of ’70s rock.
There’s a free-spirited, slightly psychedelic vibe that draws you into a world where the rules are few and the energy is high. The track creates a small universe on its own, and it welcomes you into the rest of the record with charm and swagger.
Next comes “Girl In The City,” a track that radiates good moods and an easy sense of joy. It’s refreshing to hear how naturally Brae blends his retro influences with his own personality. His style feels unmistakably his: quirky, vibrant, and unafraid to lean into nostalgia while still keeping everything crisp and alive. Moreover, the melodic choices feel spontaneous yet thoughtful, giving the track an irresistible lift.
“Slide” stands out as one of the album’s most interesting moments. The sound selection is unusual in the best way, pushing the track into a slightly eerie, quirky zone during the verses. The way the vocal line mirrors the guitar phrasing adds a playful tension, and when the chorus lands, a faint funk energy brightens the mood. It’s a bold contrast that works beautifully.
The album continues with “Do What You Do,” driven by a rhythmic pulse that feels urgent but never rushed. The Hammond organ gives the track a thick, vintage glow, expanding the atmosphere without overwhelming the groove. Brae’s melodic architecture remains clever, switching directions just when you expect something predictable. These sudden turns reveal a songwriter who enjoys exploring rather than repeating formulas.
Finally, the record closes with “Synergy (With Horns),” a bright, celebratory track that opens with a brass section bursting through like a parade rounding a corner. That festive entrance quickly merges with Penna Brae’s signature rock edge, creating a satisfying finale that reinforces the album’s personality: vintage, lively, and full of spirit.
Paint is a colorful, fun, and stylish experience from an artist with a clear sense of identity.
Paint is Pennan Brae’s Album Out Now!
Energetic!
Paint is Pennan Brae’s Album Out Now!
Pennan Brae is a Vancouver musician whose music is influenced by 1970s & 80s rock & roll. Pennan enjoys the marriage of music & film & composed a pair of soundtracks for films he wrote (‘The Astronot’ & ‘2 Below 0’). His latest album, ‘Paint’, features the legendary Steve Ferrone (Tom Petty, Eric Clapton) on drums. Pennan’s music has received airplay on Sirius XM, North American College Radio & community radio in the UK & Australia.
Find Pennan Brae Here:
Spotify
Facebook
WebPage
Instagram
The post Paint is Pennan Brae’s Album Out Now! appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.
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Forever Green Music – Buffalo, NY
Forever Green Music, Buffalo NY.Greenlight Networks Winter Holiday Sing Along. Hosted by the NT Neighborhood Watch.Sunday, December 3rd, 2023. 5 – 7pm Gateway Harbor, Sweeney Street. Sing along with Matt’s Music Christmas Carolers and Forever Green Music (Danny Manzella, Joe Tell, Tommy Nowocien and Special guest vocalist, Lisa Hubbard.) Your Life Ethereal Dreams will have their virtual igloo. There will refreshments for sale. We will be collecting new unwrapped toys for Rockin’ with Santa toy drive. Santa and other surprises. Lumber City Winter Walk, North Tonawanda.John Young, Electric Fender Bass.Tony Chimera (55 Main) percussionist.Forever Green’s latest video for the song Tropical Dog Walk.Guitarist John Cameron and his wife Wanda.The best drummer in the world! Bill Mason.Vocalist and WNY native Angst (Medic Sun, RULE!).Guitarist and Vocalist for KISS THIS! Kevin Blakita.Video of Forever Green with the new lineup. Left to right, John Young on Electric Bass, Danny Manzella on Lead Vocals, Mike Boncaldo on Drums, Joe Tell on Electric Guitar and Tony Chimera on Bongos. Fall Down Blues from the now defunct Club 861 featuring an intro by Bill Mason. Thank you Walter Oblivion.
10/2/18: Just uploaded 4 new songs to the FG reverbnation page and linked them up to the FGMusic FB page and my JoTell WNYMusic page. These songs will be on the new FG CD.
4/29/17 Forever Green Repercussions CD art.
Thanks you to Loft Studios and Jim Sommer (Cock Robin) for putting it all together.
6/11/16: Aside from reviewing local music and writing graphic novel reviews I also record original music with my friend, Danny Manzella as Forever Green. We just released a new song called 8 1/2 foot Ganja Bush which I am really proud of. Originally a duo, Dan and I like to have our good friends come down to contribute parts to our original songs. It’s interesting to hear them play along and it makes the entire recording experience that much more fun as they each add their unique talents to our music. I would like to recognize everyone’s contributions to the song as well as Dan’s unique vocals and Mike’s outstanding drumming. Great Job and Thank You!
8 1/2 foot Ganja Bush began a simple basic track so we agreed that there was plenty of room for soloing and improvisation from a few good friends.
Here’s the breakdown of guest stars and what they added to the final mix.
My old friend, Jack Branka, agreed to play electric guitar as I played acoustic guitar on the original session. Jack played guitar in my first band so I thought it would a great idea to have him come down and play. He played awesome and his rhythm/lead guitar work is heard prominently in the mix. As I listened to the first few takes of the song I thought it would be great to have a female vocal singing along. Jenelle Duguay agreed to sing and her outstanding vocals add alot! to the overall sound of the song. Brian Pond added some really cool sounds with his wah-wah lead guitar. Last but not least, Tommy Leach Jr. contributed a sweet sounding lead bass solo and Justin Leach added a fourth lead guitar. Their playing comes into the song later around the 6 minute mark or so. Mike Boncaldo mixed and mastered the song which will be on a new Forever Green CD sometime soon. We hope you enjoy listening to the song as much as we enjoyed playing on it.
If you want to hear the 8 1/2 foot Ganja Bush song here is a direct link to it through our Reverbnation music page https://www.reverbnation.com/forevergreen2/song/26079670-8-12-foot-ganja-bush
Facebook music page link https://www.facebook.com/Forever-Green-557646644428742/
Thanks for listening and any comments are welcome.
10 Years In The Baking CD art.
Forever Green
“10 Years In The Baking”
CD Review
This acoustic Americana duo are Danny Manzella – All Lyrics, Lead Vocals, Harmonica, and Joe Tell – Guitars and Bass, with a host of guest players who helped bring this cool menagerie together. Danny also plays with 55 Mainand Eminence Front. Other special guest musicians on this disc are: Tony Chimera on Percussion; Vince Mastrantonio (The Vincent James Explosion, Carina & The Six String Preacher) – Producer; Brian Pond – Lead Guitar; Tommy Leach Jr. – Bass; Justin Leach – Lead Guitar (both from the River Rocks band), and Mike Boncaldo (Chunkpipe) – Drums. These various musicians make appearances and lend their talents to this 16-song debut CD, with some remixed material from their first EP, with many interesting additions.
Getting it all going is “Senorita”, going for an old-west type sound, like an outlaw and a Mex that’s not enough, Tommy Leach Jr. is laying down solid bass. Drums are supplied by Mike Boncaldo. It’s a story of a man in love with someone, whose father doesn’t approve. The first verse says it all, “I know a girl Mariana, her presence set me afire, her flame was like the night, full of lust and desire. She walked from the canteena, from there I was under her spell, to me she seemed like an angel, could it been the wishing well. One night her Papa saw me creeping out the door. He screamed, I’ll kill you señor, you won’t see my daughter no more. She looked out from the window. She screamed: ‘No Papa, No.’ He came a-runnin’ at me, now Papa run no more.” The chorus here is sung like a serenade! “Empty Room Jump”, actually a darker tune than one might realize, written about a man whose girl ain’t comin’ back. Tommy’s brother Justin Leach is an incredible lead guitarist, and it’s quite evident in his solo. Tony Chimera has his infectious percussion going. We love the guitar, which brings a fresh sound.
Just a simple ballad with a certain feel, “A Girl’s Name”, and one of their very first recordings as a band, is an acoustic-laden track. The singing and lyrics are emotional, “Sometimes I can’t stop a tear from falling up in eye, cause I can’t help it baby, I feel for you. I can’t help the poor, not every single poor man I know, but I can try to do my part, each day, by and by.”
“She Left” features Brian Pond laying down a superb groove, with Dan hopping in and improving the tune with some harp. Tony is chugging along with his style of bongos and various other percussion instruments. Love the mellow vibe and simplicity. Danny sings with passion and right from the soul. Strumming rock, upbeat acoustic and furious singing is how “Saw A Rose”, kicks off and continues. It’s definitely one of our favorites. It tells a tale of disillusionment over a relationship gone south. “Saw a rose, was not red, saw a rose, was not red. The place we sleep at night, is just our bed. See at night it’s just our house, ain’t no love nest baby, it’s just our house, just a husband, just a spouse. Blue I feel is all around, when you shout and scream and try to run me out I think we know, Lord we just don’t save. Go on and with it babe, there after day. Yeaaa!”
Clean with pleasant sounding acoustic guitar begins “I’d Find My Way”. It’s mixed in a slightly different vocal track. It conveys a feeling of sitting around and jamming, and having a great time. “When You’re Near Me” is a slower, more soothing tune, with its harmonica, bongos, and fine bass lines by Tommy Leach Jr. Vocals here are lower toned, yet still powerful. We truly enjoyed the music, singing, and all the other elements cleverly placed, making it another one of our favorites. The chorus “Cause it’s you and me babe, I get the feeling it will always be. Yea, it’s you and me babe, when you’re near me I feel free”, are lyrics that bring a warm, loving feeling, and such a positive vibe. Enjoying the harmonica and pleasant chords on “To See You Again” (one of their older songs) was performed live, but was never recorded or released until now.
A well-written and performed guitar intro pushes us into “Waves”. Written about many different kinds of waves, it’s an older song, which was a task to sing live for Danny. Powerful guitar strumming and more fantastic vocals again here. It’s the duo at its finest! It’s a slightly different version than the live one on their debut, with no percussion.
A rockabilly and country blending makes for a cool mix for the theme behind “Greener Pastures”. Again, it’s another of their older classics from the early days. In between the verses, a mean harmonica plays out.
“Horse Behind The Plow Blues”, is a simple blues tune the band keeps coming back to. Playing alongside them on Lead Guitar is Brian, another appearance by Mike on Drums and we can’t keep Tony away from adding his talent!
“Final Wish Before Goodbye” is a song written about an indecisive man trying to determine where his relationship stands. Slowed up, with ringing guitar and vocals, and the harmonica was brought out for the occasion.
In “Fall Down Blues”, Danny’s singing his lungs out with lines like, “If you look at me and told me you wish I was dead, I’d still love you baby, I’m like that in the head”; and then, “a trip up the country thought would do us good. Instead treats me like a dummy made out of wood”. He showcases his soulful and bluesy voice, and sings with heart. Acoustic guitar, uptempo rhythm and incredible vocals really make this a fun song to listen to. If you love Folk/Americana rock then this is your jam! We enjoyed the lyrics, speaking of going out to country, just to get away and clear the mind. It was their first song recorded as a band, and used to kick off a few of their shows too; it’s the one that started it all.
One of Joe Tell’s all-time faves is “Old Dead Flea Blues”, describing an acid-drenched trip through the Everglades. With aggressive guitar that has attitude, an unexpected change to a bluesy-based bridge keeps the ears intrigued.
Talk about an old school vibe, “Exactly What You Did” does exactly that, sounding as if it’s being played on an antique turntable, with all it’s perfect imperfections. The mood that comes to mind is of being in the swamps and hanging on the porch, and is the finest of the blues! Standard beat, harmonica and gritty vocals are featured here.
Concluding this awesome release is an instrumental written by Joe, dedicated to his wife, “Melody For Maria.” The track was produced by Vincent Mastrantonio (Vincent James Explosion, Carina & The Six String Preacher), Joe Tell is featured on guitar.
Thanks to Joe for providing this CD for review and giving us the opportunity to share great new music, with powerful lyrics and vocals! Please visit their Reverbnation site or CDbaby.com for information on the band, their music, and upcoming events.
Track Listing
“Senorita”
“Empty Room Jump”
“A Girl’s Name”
“She Left”
“Saw A Rose”
“I’d Find My Way”
“When You’re Near Me”
“To See You Again”
“Waves”
“Greener Pastures”
“Horse Behind The Plow Blues”
“Final Wish Before Goodbye”
“Fall Down Blues”
“Old Dead Flea Blues”
“Exactly What You Did”
“Melody For Maria”
Update 3/26/16: Forever Green – self titled – EP review
Forever Green is a musical collaboration between musicians Dan Manzella and Joe Tell and the title of their new five song EP. Treading territory somewhere between Father John Misty and Hot Tuna the album is a stripped down affair with most tracks feature just guitar, bass and vocals with the occasional harmonica or percussion. “Fall Down Blues” and “When You’re Near Me” are straight up acoustic blues numbers while “I’d Find My Way” is a slow ballad and “Joey’s Song” an instrumental is almost in the realm of psychedelic mysticism with its experimental sounds. Rounding out the album is “Waves” a track that was recorded live at the Tudor Lounge. For more information about Forever Green visit them on the web at www.reverbnation.com/forevergreen2
Review By Bob Silvestri http://www.bestofwny.com/
Thank You Bob!
Update 3/3/16 Forever Green to be continued!
What a great time tonight with our special guests Joe Tell and Danny Manzella. A big thanks to Linda Hastreiter for giving us the scoop on our upcoming benefit Variety Show on March 11th at and for The Iron Island Museum. Download the show and take a listen. We guarantee you will giggle.
http://www.thinktwiceradio.com/patsy-dottie/audio/160303a.mp3
Forever Green “Forever Green” CD Review
This two piece Folk, Acoustic based band out of the WNY area is made up of Danny Manzella (55 Main and The Lost Riders Band) – Lead Vocals, Harmonica, and Joe tell – Acoustic & Electric Guitar. Guiseppe Tell is listed as playing Bass. The CD features guest musicians, Vincent Mastrantonio ( The Vincent James Explosion, Carina & The Six String Preacher ) – Lead Guitar / Keyboards on Joey’s song, Tommy Leach Jr. – Bass on When You’re Near Me, and Tony Chimera ( 55 Main ) – Bongos, percussion on When You’re Near Me.
Really enjoyed the first track, “Fall Down Blues”. Danny’s singing his lungs out with lines like “If you look at me and told me you wish I was dead, I’d still love you baby, I’m like that in the head” and especially on “A trip up the country thought would do us good. Instead treats me like a dummy made out of wood”. A very soulful and bluesy voice and sings with heart. The acoustic guitar, up tempo rhythm and incredible vocals really make this a fun song to listen too. If you love folk / Americana rock this is for you then. I enjoyed the lyrics, telling the story of going out to country, just to get away and clear the mind.
“When You’re Near Me” is a slower and soothing tune, with it’s harmonica, bongos, and fine bass lines by Tommy Leach Jr. The vocals are lower toned, yet still powerful. I truly enjoyed the music, singing, and all the other elements added, making it one off my favorites. The chorus “Cause it’s you and me babe, I get the feeling it will always be. Yea, it’s you and me babe, when you’re near me I feel free” are lyrics that bring a warm and loving feeling. Such a positive vibe. Clean and a pleasant sounding acoustic guitar begin
“I’d Find My Way”. Mixed in slightly different vocal track. This track gives me the feeling of sitting around and jamming, just enjoying life.
“Joey’s Song” is an instrumental dedicated to Joe’s son Joseph. A precisely played guitar, the sound is perfectly clear, you can hear every note ring out, along with a low siren sound in the background is the first part that segues into a strumming guitar and thumping bass. To close it out, they have a special guest Vince Mastrantonio play an incredible guitar solo. Some sweeping and bending of notes on the neck and frets, shows why he is one of the best around.
“Waves” is a live song that gives you a taste of what this band is about. Acoustic, vocals, and a bongo all make a cool song. The energy is positive and gives a soothing feeling. This CD is just a sample from the band. They are working and finishing up their new disc.
Thanks to Joe for sending in the CD. Really loved listening to it! For more on the band, music, please visit Reverbnation or their cdbaby page.
Tracklist: “Fall Down Blues’ ( 2007) “When You’re Near Me” “I ‘d Find My Way ( Vocal Remix ) “Joey’s Song” ( Dedicated to Joseph Jacob Militello ) “Waves” – live Tudor Lounge 03/04/12
Update 1/28/16 Forever Green on The Patsy Silver and Dottie Kenney Variety Show
What a wonderful conversation with the talented Joe Tell and Maria today. A huge thanks to Ed Honek, Editor of Nightlife Magazine, for giving us the scoop on the Nightlife Music Awards. So clickity click the link, download it and enjoy!
http://www.thinktwiceradio.com/patsy-dottie/audio/160128a.mp3
12/23/15: Forever Green has released a 5 song EP. This release includes a couple of alternate mixes that can only be heard on this CD. The first song, Fall Down Blues, was the first song Forever Green recorded and Joey’s Song is the last song Joe Tell recorded. The second song, When You’re Near Me, is a alternate version that will not be included on the full length release. I’d Find My Way is another alternate mix that uses all 3 versions of Dan’s vocal tracks to create a very unique vocal sound. A second guitar can be faintly heard, this is a unplugged electric guitar which came through the vocal mic during one of Dan’s vocal performances. Joey’s Song was recorded by Vincent James. Vince is a master musician and he owns Music City Buffalo, one of, if not the best, music stores in Buffalo, NY. I must add that I was slightly intimidated recording with Vince because he is so talented, luckily I got over it and made it through. The guitar tuning on this track was created especially for this song and all the ethereal enhancements were added by Vince. Waves is a live track that Dan wanted to include on the EP. Dan’s vocal talent really talent shines through on Waves. Tony Chimera played the bongos on Waves. EP Artwork was created by Cheryl and Dan Manzella and Joe Tell. This EP was meant to be a teaser in advance of a full length CD which will be released in 2016.
Update 3/14/15: Forever Green is proud to have been chosen as a finalist in the Artvoice BOOM (Battle Of Original Music)! We are glad to be recognized for our music and very happy to see our picture in the Artvoice newspaper. The best thing about it is our music is being heard by a larger audience.
Danny Manzella and I are writing music together again as Forever Green with the help of producer Mike Boncaldo of Ansley Court and Chunkpipe? fame.
Forever Green has also enlisted the top shelf help of Tony Chimera on bongos from 55 Main and Tommy Leach Jr. on 5 string bass from River Rocks.
Forever Green has released 2 live original tracks, “Waves” and “Old Dead Flea Blues” from the famed Tudor Lounge in Buffalo, NY with special guest Tony Chimera on bongos.
Big thanks goes out to Bruce Markwardt for recording us. Thanks Dad!
3 new originals have also been written, recorded and released, “When You’re Near Me”, “I’d Find My Way” and the 6 minute opus “Seniorita”. Our love for the blues produced “Exactly What You Did” kept lo-fi on purpose. Dan and I sincerely hope you enjoy listening to our music!
http://www.reverbnation.com/forevergreen2

8/24/2011 Update: Forever Green is Now on Reverbnation!Check out the Youtube video Forever Green (2) to hear Forever Green live…
Thank You for posting the videos Sue & Cheryl!
Forever Green is an acoustic duo Dan & I put together to express our love for music.
logo by Dan the Man.
Here’s a classic FG handbill created by Joey Manzella and recently given to me by Dan. Thanks Dan!
This post is dedicated to Debbie Owens.
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I don’t need to hide anymore is Estrada music project’s Single Out Now
Good Day Noir Family,
Estrada Music Project delivers a song charged with emotional strength and electronic pulse in “I Don’t Need to Hide Anymore.”I don’t need to hide anymore is Estrada music project’s Single Out Now
The track opens with the sound of a beating heart — steady, intimate, and symbolic. Almost immediately, a powerful bass line enters and injects energy that feels alive, almost biological, as if electricity is rushing through your veins.
The momentum builds with intention, crafting a rhythm that suggests movement, renewal, and the moment someone decides their life is about to change.
When the vocals arrive, they carry a tone that feels mysterious and nostalgic. There’s a smoky texture in the delivery, something slightly distant yet emotionally focused. The mix of electronic influences and rhythmic drive evokes the darker, more introspective territories explored by bands like Depeche Mode. Moreover, the way the melody wraps around the beat enhances the sensation of stepping into a personal revelation.
The production stands out for its attention to detail. The arpeggiators shimmer with precision, pushing the track forward with kinetic energy. Meanwhile, the drums and keys sit high in the mix, creating a bright frame that allows the vocal to remain present without dominating. Every element supports the emotion of the song — confidence, release, and the boldness of showing oneself without fear.
Throughout the track, Estrada Music Project balances vulnerability with power. The song feels like a declaration, but also like an invitation to step into the light. The atmosphere stays slightly dark and electronic, yet the rhythmic pulse gives it a sense of triumph. It is a track that fits easily within synth-driven pop while maintaining an identity rooted in rock emotion and human expression.
“I Don’t Need to Hide Anymore” is a vibrant, stylish, and emotionally charged release — a blend of electronic texture and heartfelt songwriting.
I don’t need to hide anymore is Estrada music project’s Single Out Now!
Empowering!
I don’t need to hide anymore is Estrada music project’s Single Out Now Estrada Music Project is the creative outlet of a Scotland-based songwriter who balances a full life between medicine, music, and family. By day he works in a hospital, and by night—often from 7 to 11—he pours his heart into writing songs. Supported by an extraordinary partner and two wonderful children, he channels the love and gratitude that surround him into every composition. Grounded in faith and guided by sincerity, he embraces all the roles that shape him: man, son, husband, father, friend, and doctor. His music reflects his life—authentic, heartfelt, and rooted in true, sincere love.
Find Estrada music project Here:
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Dangerous Love is James Laurent’s Single Out Now
Good Day Noir Family,
James Laurent fires up an explosive indie-rock spark with “Dangerous Love,” a track that hooks you with a contagious kick of adrenaline.Dangerous Love is James Laurent’s Single Out Now
A sharp guitar riff launches the song forward, carrying echoes of early-2000s punk rock — fast, gritty, and full of rebellious charm.
Once Laurent’s voice steps in, the atmosphere expands. His delivery carries a sinuous, mysterious tone, blending theatrical flair with an undercurrent of emotional tension. It’s expressive without being exaggerated, modern without losing edge. The vocal line slides over the driving instrumentation with confidence, further shaping the mood into something nocturnal and addictive.
The production hits hard. The drum sound is crisp and punchy, with a snare that cuts through the mix like a clean strike. The rhythm section pushes the music into high gear while still leaving room for dynamic interplay. Moreover, the guitars alternate between high-intensity bursts and moments of restraint, allowing the bass to step forward and add depth. This balance creates a sense of movement — rising tension followed by brief calm, then another surge of energy.
Stylistically, the track blends emo, punk, and alternative rock. There’s a restless nostalgia here, but the emotion is directed toward the present rather than the past. The melody carries a certain urgency, while the instrumental drive keeps everything active and sharp. This mixture of energy and emotional grit gives the song a distinctly late-night feeling — like neon lights reflecting off wet pavement, or the rush of a city that never quite sleeps.
Laurent proves he knows exactly how to command his sound. Everything feels intentional: the pacing, the vocal textures, the bursts of guitar intensity, and the rhythmic shifts that keep the song from staying predictable. “Dangerous Love” is the work of an artist who understands passion and control.
Dangerous Love is James Laurent’s Single Out Now!
Intense!
James Laurent is a 26-year-old Ecuadorian-American engineer and artist from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. After a knee injury at 17 ended his hopes of playing professional soccer in Sweden, he taught himself music production using a family laptop and a borrowed USB mic.
By 20, he was a sought-after engineer in Los Angeles, and by 23 he had moved into post-production, contributing to projects for South Park, Nickelodeon Animation Studios, and Cartoon Network. He is also one of the youngest engineers to design and configure Dolby Atmos–certified studios, including two rooms for Amazon Music in Culver City.
James now works as a Media Systems Engineer for FX Networks while creating music from his bedroom studio, and he is also an active graphic designer and VFX artist.
Find James Laurent Here:
Spotify
Instagram
Discover New Bands Click Here
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Bastian: Grimorio
Band: Bastian Album: Grimorio Release Date: 31st July, 2018 Record Label: Sliptrick Records Total Tracks: 10 (59:30) Genre: Heavy Metal Rating: 87/100 Reviewer: […]















