Taiwanese Extreme Metallers' Cthonic release a special live album Cthonic: Megaport 2021 via Spinefarm Records today (May 19th). The band made history with its first post-covid 19 performance in a country that proved successful in its battle against the turgid disease. The Megaport festival was held over two days in March that took place in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Cthonic formed in 2006 by singer Freddy Lim before he departed to take a seat in the Taiwanese Parliament. The band were joined on this tour by Audrey Tang , the group's biggest fan, who happens to be the Digital Minister in the Taiwan government. Cthonic combine modern symphonic black metal with traditional Taiwanese folk music. They are renowned for writing lyrics about folklore, mythology and enka, using instruments like Hena, Zhing and Pgaku flute. The show begins to thunderous applause as the ominous sounds of drums and string arrangements greet them. The orchestral version of "Tekao" settles any nerves ...
Words were written by Anselm Anderson for Rambling Man's Reviews Allan James is a much-accomplished singer-songwriter, based in Northern Virginia, USA James is a self-taught musician, who began playing guitar and singing songs aged 8 and by the time he reached his early teens, James had started to record and perform his original music for school, dances, and charities. James returned to the US following a successful stint as host of his own guitar TV show in Iceland, whilst living over there. Allan James achieved critical acclaim following the release of his debut single on local radio stations, as well as releasing 6 albums to date. James has always been at the forefront of utilizing technologies and using the internet to build a fanbase. He now returns with " Our Dreams", the latest single off his forthcoming new album. A beautifully structured track that captures the soul with its succinct guitar play and poetic lyrics. The track conjures feelings of serenity...