The new Black Cobra album is streaming on Brooklyn Vegan. I'm hardly unbiased about this band. They're my most favorite band of the last four years. Naturally, I have the album pre-ordered and probably would have thought good things even if it only vaguely sounded like the Black Cobra I know. For that reason, I have to give it time to sink in to decide how I really feel underneath the premature "yay! new black cobra album!"... But, of course, it's a decent quality album and I like it so far. And hey, look at that, their songs are growing in size. Bonus Black Cobra?
The Hunter by Mastodon was recently released. I am still dealing with my initial disappointment with the album so I haven't given it another try yet. It's not bad if you approach it with a commercial mindset - they'll probably ascend a little further because of it. Being a fan of their more straightforward, less proggy metal albums, though, I feel like they're going in a similar direction as Metallica did between the 80s and 90s. Also, I wish mister emotional turmoil would stop singing. Regardless of my personal feelings, they have a show coming up here with Red Fang... Sure to be a fucking fun night for everyone.
Eight Bells, the band that formed in the ashes of SubArachnoid Space, just had their first show last night and now has music you can listen to online. Big surprise, it sounds like SubArachnoid Space. That's hardly a bad thing. Listen here: eightbells.bandcamp.com
One of my favorite pieces of news lately was hearing that Black Elk has reformed with two new members to work on new material. Well, it got better: they're doing a show here in January. Not only that, but it's with Nether Regions, Wizard Rifle, and Rabbits. I awkwardly remember missing one of Black Elk's last shows which happened to be with Nether Regions right after I learned of their greatness. Shortly after I learned that Black Elk split up, and I felt pretty stupid about missing that show with Nether Regions. It was at the East End, though, so... hard to feel too bad about it now that I know how hard it is to see in that room. Anyway, Branx should be a good spot.
The KARP documentary is now going to be screening... which means it's finished! and is available for purchase! Check the dates on the website if you want to see it before it ships out - otherwise, January 2nd!
Finally, by some chance one of my visitors in the next few days happens to live in California or southern Oregon, Witch Mountain just left on tour with Premonition 13 (Wino's new band - awesome as per usual!). If you have the time and the money, I suggest going out to see them. Dates & venues here!