Visutox

Why do all those "official" photo uploads that can't be changed even with an avalanche of downvotes always look like first-day-of-school photographs or boring family portraits? I'm looking at you, pages of Kate Bush and Whitesnake.
 
God damn it last.fm. Nobody wants these dull -I take no chances- photography from amateurs.
 
Also upvoted/upvoting all images posted on the last page.

It's getting closer and closer to summer, and the weather is, at times at least, really nice. This, for me, means thrash metal and crossover. However, why the fuck did "all" the great thrash metal bands turn towards groove metal sooner or later? Some went down the groove lane early on, while some later, but a shitload of these thrash metal bands turned towards groove metal at one point. It's so fucking disgusting. Worst genre in history of music.
 
Sepultura with Chaos A.D. They've already lost me at Arise, but at least Arise is alright if nothing else. Chaos A.D. however is absolute trash. It's so bad.
Anthrax with Sound of White Noise and many of the albums that would come. Everything up until Persistence of Time is good, but then they got groovier and shittier.
Annihilator with King of the Hill. The quality dropped massively with their third album, Set the World on Fire, but it wasn't until The King of the Hill that the band turned really sour. From there on and until now the band has sucked so bad. Ew.
Sodom with Masquerade in Blood. While not proper groove metal, there's more than enough groove metal elements here to make me vomit. Awful album. Everything up till MiB was actually pretty good. But this album. Fucking hell.
Overkill with I Hear Black. The first four albums are amazing, the fifth is cool, then came I Hear Black and the band turned to shit. Shitty groove metal made for pussies, like groove metal in general. Crap.
Testament with Low. I only need Testament's debut album, but everything up until Low are pretty good. Low however, is low. Such a shitty album with plenty of groove metal thrown in. It's so god damn bad.
Slayer with Diabolus in Musica. I lost interest with the release of South of Heaven, and I think South of Heaven, Seasons in the Abyss and all the following albums are boring. But it was the groove metalinfluenced nu metal shit that is DiM that really turned these guys into a poor joke. Such an awful album.
Destruction with The Least Successful Human Cannonball and All Hell Breaks Loose. I lost interest in this band after Eternal Devastation, but both Release from Agony and Cracked Brain and fairly enjoyable albums. Then they turned groovy, and aside from The Antichrist which i enjoy, everything's been groove metal-influenced shit. Godawful.
Exodus with Force of Habit, but especially with Shovel Headed Kill Machine and the other albums with Rob Dukes. Force of Habit is groove metal influenced as fuck, and bad as well. But with Shovel Headed Kill Machine they took it all to a new level. After a close to perfect comeback (with one awful song, which hapens to be a groove/nu metal song) they turned sour with the groovy shit. Shame really.
Lääz Rockit with Left for Dead. A modern-sounding comeback album released in 2008. Groove metal from A to Å. Can't stand this piece of shit album.
Sacred Reich with Independent. The American Way was bad, but Independent was their low. Godawful album.
 
 
 
See a pattern here? While some bands had already become uninteresting, most of them didn't turn GODFUCKINGAWFUL until they went for a groove metal influenced sound, obviously very inspired by shit like 90's Pantera, Machine Head and the likes. It's seriously the worst genre ever. Ugh.

This topic makes me feel so down On behalf of the decent people of the world, I just want to apologise that you guys got dealt this shitty hand. Although it might not seem like it at times, the world isn't full of the awful people you have encountered. There are some really awesome people out there who can actually make you feel special, loved and...equal I guess. Don't give up on people, or on yourselves. Everyone is special and loveable, and no one has the right to take that away from you

Swedish occult rockers GHOST have set "Meliora" (Latin for "better") as the title of their third album, due on August 21.
 
I am looking forward to this. Both albums are fantastic, but I was a bit let down by the production on their last album. But everything else was top notch. They might be the very best live band in the world at the moment as well. Stunning liveband.

In before limited-run special collector's ultimate edition on 2xLP+Remastered CD+Original CD+Bonus Tracks CD+Live CD+DVD+Blu-ray+Photo Book with colored vinyl and shiny metal case for $300, 5% off special price if member of fanclub.
 
Yeah, probably just a re-release.

Tech N9ne ㅡ Special Effects 7/10
First half score: 9/10 Second half score: 5/10  

 
Good album, could have been better but the problem lies in the second half of the album. That is to say if the album had only the 12 first tracks on it, then it would be a fucking dope one IMO. The second half is not bad but really weak compared to the first one, there are some tracks I really enjoyed though. Anyway this album is worth checking out just because of the 11 or 12 first tracks (8 if we forget the interludes) and especially if you dig Tecca Nina's music. Gonna say it again, just in case: good album.
 
Also gonna drop here my favorite song from the new album, dope shit. 

Hey guys! As some of you know, I've been working on some music with a fellow MH member.
 
I present to you "Zero One Complex!" 
 
Long story short, we're a Hard rock duo who draws influence from many different genre's/ bands as well as life experiences. We just released our first single "Core", which can be streamed/downloaded here: (https://soundcloud.com/zero-one-complex/core)
 
We'd greatly appreciate it if you guys gave us a listen. If you enjoyed the song, please give our page (https://www.facebook.com/zero.one.complex?fref=ts) a like, and feel free to share and download the song.
 
We have more coming soon!
 
And of course, you guys can post how you feel here!

Unveil Raze Ba.TAKAFUMI has departed again after their live at Kawasaki CLUB CITTA' at 2015/05/10, and Ba.KOUSUKE(ex-Vellselk, now in DEATHGAZE) will join the band at their live at Imaike CLUB 3STAR at 2015/05/21
 

This just in: 'Arise in Stability' band name change to 'Arise Instability'

Of course, feel free to use this thread for things like that too!

Thanks for the votes, guys! Happy to see my name up there at all. And I'll try to keep more good videos coming in the plug sessions! <3

Massive thanks to the members who gave in their votes in order to make this happen!
Some things to note:
For the categories that have no runners up, it's because there weren't enough votes. All votes are listed in numbered order of the majority of votes and are in alphabetical order when tied. The dashes are used to break up the users who are in the joint position. Staff of the Year: 
1. @CAT5
2. @Zeus
3.
 
Favourite uploader:
1.
2. / @numetal
3. @CAT5 / @robkun
 
Best looking male:
1. @Sakura Seven
2. @Peace Heavy mk II
 
Best looking female:
1. @Shir0
2. @237Q / @beni / @hyura / @paradoxal
 
Best jokes:
1. @Jigsaw9
2. @Biopanda
3. @nekkichi
 
Weirdest user: 
1. @blackdoll
2.
3. @Trombe
 
Most fascinating user that makes the most interesting posts: 
1. @CAT5
2. @Disposable / @Trombe / @Zeus
3. @blackdoll / @hiroki / @Pho / @Tetora
 
Best avatar:
1. @Biopanda
2. @beni
3. @CAT5
 
Best sig:
1. @paradoxal
2. / @beni / @kyoselflove / @sai / @Zeus
 
Biggest spammer:
1.
2. @blackdoll
3. @nxbitakinema / @gantzking20
 
Most argumentative:
1. @Zeus
2. @Des /
3. @relentless
 
Drama Queen/King:
1. @blackdoll
2. @DarkWater
 
Most effective Troll:
1. @nekkichi
2. @Gaz
3. @herpes
 
WTF-Award of the year:
1. @blackdoll
2.
 
Best drama thread:
1. Post your "UNPOPULAR" music opinions!
2. random thoughts thread
3. Lycaon will disband
 
Best reviews:
1.  #18: D - Kingdom, @ShanethVarosa / #22: THE HISTORY OF GENESIS by Jupiter, @CAT5 / #33: PARADOX by FIXER,
 
Friendliest/most helpful member:
1. @beni
2. @Jigsaw9
3. @CAT5 /
 
Most loyal Kisaki fan of the year:
1.
2. @inartistic
 
User with most interesting musicial taste:
1. @CAT5
2. @Bear / @hiroki / @indigo
 
MH Theme song:
1. idiot - Fakkin A
 
"What the heck is this user doing here, they hate everything we like!" award: 
1. @Bear
2. @Disposable / @Shaolan974
 
Most fanboyish/fangirlish behaviour: 
1. @blackdoll
2. @ishiki
3. @paradoxal
 
Most hardcore collector:
1. @Biopanda
2. @hiroki
3.
 
Most informative:
1. @Trombe
2. @Zeus
3. @CAT5
 
Best Art Showcase artist:
1.
2.
3.
 
Wall of text poster:
1. @Tetora
2. @Zeus
3. @beni / @Ikna / / @relentless
 
Most outspoken user:
1. @Des
2. @Gaz / @relentless / @Zeus
 
User with the most random statuses: 
1. @blackdoll
2.
3. @ishiki /
 
User with best member title: 
1. @beni / @kyoselflove / @Peace Heavy mk II
 
Most knowledgeable on VK: 
1. @Biopanda
2. @Champ213 / @hiroki / @robkun
3. @inartistic / @Zeus
 
Most knowledgeable on Japanese music in general: 
1. @CAT5
2.
3. @Biopanda
 
Best contributions on topics other than music: 
1. @Bear / @beni
2. @paradoxal
3. @Original Saku
 
User with the most interesting "Location": 
1. @blackdoll /
 
Most active in Château de Monochromium: 
1. @leafwork
 
Best plug.dj DJ: 
1. @CAT5
2.
3. @indigo / @Pho
 
Best lurker turned active:
1. / @Pho
 
Most popular user award:
1. @CAT5
2. @Biopanda / @beni
3. @Peace Heavy mk II
 
Member with the least constructive posts: 
1. @blackdoll
2. @Sakura Seven
3. @jon_jonz
 
So, is there anyone you don't see up there you think should be? Discuss and keep those members in mind for next time!

I've finally got to listen Cruachan's latest album and dude it's fucking solid, totally loved it. 8,5/10
 
Also listened to the new Sigh and I loved it, total success. Really good album!

The first and fifth movements from Brahms' "Ein deutsches Requiem":
 
 
1. Selig sind, die da Leid tragen,                                                                1. Blessed are they that mourn,
denn sie sollen getröstet werden.                                                                   for they shall be comforted.
Die mit Tränen säen,                                                                                      They who sow in tears,
werden mit Freuden ernten.                                                                           shall reap in joy.
Sie gehen hin und weinen                                                                              Go forth and cry,
und tragen edlen Samen,                                                                               bearing precious seed,
und kommen mit Freuden                                                                               and come with joy
und bringen ihre Garben                                                                                bearing their sheaves
 
 
 
5. Ihr habt nun Traurigkeit;                                                                          5. You now have sorrow;
aber ich will euch wieder sehen                                                                       but I shall see you again
und euer Herz soll sich freuen                                                                         and your heart shall rejoice
und eure Freude soll niemand von euch nehmen.                                   and your joy no one shall take from you.

Sehet mich an:                                                                                                 Behold me:
Ich habe eine kleine Zeit Mühe und Arbeit gehabt                                    I have had for a little time toil and torment,
und habe großen Trost funden.                                                                       and now have found great consolation.

Ich will euch trösten,                                                                                         I will console you,
wie Einen seine Mutter tröstet                                                                          as one is consoled by his mother
 
 
The most fascinating part is the intimate relation between the music and text, using word painting to convey the different emotions present. The violins are absent in the first movement to focus on the instruments in the lower register, conveying a powerful feeling of sorrow. Then, the final lines of the fifth movement, where it modulates to G major on: "Ich will euch trösten, wie Einen seine Mutter tröstet" sung by the chorus, underlined by the Soprano singing "Ihr habt nun Traurigkeit". The music softly rises, then falls to a quiet cadence to the tonic, conveying one of the most other-worldly experiences in all of music.
 
 
 
EDIT: holy shit formatting this was rough

Exodus: Gods And Kings - I am quite disappointed for this one but at the same time I like it for what it is as a movie, because if you want to enjoy it then you better forget about the historical context. What pissed me off is the obstinacy to try to find rational explanations to the miracles of Moses, I think it deprives the movie from its real interest - not to mention that some of the miracles are missing. I couldn't care less about the casting but it's also true that they could have make an effort to bring more relevant actors. I get why it was censored/banned in Muslim countries. Not even gonna give a score. 

I liked a lot of singles last month, albums? Not so much. Right now I got 2 and can hopefully come back with a 3rd as I listen to a bit more this month...
 

Sworn In - The Lovers / The Devil
I heard this band a handful of times before this release and wasn't very impressed, they blend in with a ton of other American metalcore bands. But after seeing them live last year I earned a new respect for them. Their energy definitely carries over better live, and it's basically the entire reason I made it a point to check out this release. I can't say if I can honestly tell any growth in their songwriting from the previous album, but I can say they got with a producer that knew how to make them sound much more balanced. And this album makes me look forward to the next time I can see them play.
Check: Oliolioxinfree

 
 

Dance Gavin Dance - Instant Gratification
I was one of the many that walked away from this band when Jonny Craig left. I've followed Jonny's career ever since. But an old itch came back when I heard about this album coming out. I missed their quirky brand of math-y post-hardcore and hadn't really found a good replacement in Jonny's new projects, though many of them have become faves in their own rights they just didn't fill the hole this band left for me. This album didn't disappoint, either. And while it's missing the touch of soul Jonny added, Tilian Pearson really sounds awesome with them. It's good to be back.
Check: Stroke God, Millionaire

Could barely scratch together 3-5 releases that I liked, let alone a top 3, heh. But here it goes:
 
 

 
Terrible Feelings - Tremors / I can hardly put it into words how awesome this album is. Kickass melodic pop-punk-rock with gorgeous vocals that always manages to get my blood pumpin' and put a smile on my face. The Swedish cannot fail in this department!
 
 

 
Szabó Benedek és a Galaxisok - A legszebb éveink / Discovered this neat singer-songwriter totally by accident, and completely fell in love with his latest full-length. Very smart and genuine lyrics, and excellent compact arrangements.
 
 

 
Cemetery - Wind and Shadows / Sick and dark goth-punk/deathrock just how I like it. Trademark fuzzy guitar weeping and moaning/howling vocals encased in just the right amount of grimey production to make it work. Solid, especially for a debut album.

Another month, more good albums. I haven't checked out too many albums from april, but the few I have heard have been good. My all-time favourite band, Sigh, released a new fantastic album, Peste Noire released what should have been their previous album, Gruesome made a brilliant tribute to Death, Ghost Bath improved a lot on their debut and made a Deafheaven-gone-sad-kind of album, Drudkh went harsher and Luciferian Light Orchestra went retro. That's more or less the albums I've heard so far.
 

Sigh - Graveward
 
I'll start off by admiting that I was, and still am, slightly disappointed by this album. I am not disappointed because it is a bad album, because this right here, this is a bloody masterpiece. I am a bit disappointed because You Oshima lacks the character of Shinichi. And this is just another proof that you can be a great guitarist on a technical scale, but still not half the guitarist of more limited guitarist because you lack character. You have nothing that makes you stand out from other guitarists on your level. And I honestly believe that this album would've been much better with Shinichi. But let's not dwell on that. I have gotten used to the production which I felt was quite off to begin with, but while not great, it doesn't take anything away from the music. Graveward sounds like a mix of Hail Horror Hail, Gallows Gallery and King Diamond, and I really, really like it. Mastermind Mirai once again shows why he is one of the most unique songwriters within the realm of metal. Mirai called this Cinematic Horror Metal, and he's quite spot on with that. I'll also add that despite having over 100 different tracks, this is perhaps Sigh's most easy album to get into together with Hangman's Hymn and Scorn Defeat, which came as quite a surprise. Another great album by a beyond fantastic band.
 
The Tombfiller
 

Peste Noire - La Chaise-Dyable
 
Peste Noire started out as a black metal band, and played something I call medieval black metal on their debut before going rougher with their follow-up, then starting to experiment and go in a more mad, crazy avant-garde-esque direction. And up until their previous album, the self-titled Peste Noire, the band had been changing drastic with each release. Peste Noire was good, but not as good as I had expected, and they failed to evolve with the album. It was just a mix of their previous album, and that greatly disappointed me because I had expected something crazier. But to my big surprise, they went in that direction again with this album, and this is the album which should've followed L'Ordure à l'état Pur, not Peste Noire. Anotier unique effort who'll split the fanbase even more. I love this, and I can't get enough of this madness. Hooligan black metal!
 
Le dernier putsch
 

Luciferian Light Orchestra - Luciferian Light Orchestra
 
Luciferian Light Orchestra is the new band of Therion's Christofer Johnsson, consisting of songs written over a long period of time but which didn't fit into Therion. This is what Therion would've sounded like if they existed in the 70's. The band plays a form for poppy, occult 70's rock, which isn't very unique to be honest, but the Therion-esque feeling makes them stand out from the crowd. It's catchy, yet a bit challenging here and there, so there's more than enough to dig into after a few listens. If you like Therion, Year of the Goat, Purson and the likes, this just might be your cup of tea.
 
Dr. Fuast on Capri
 
 
 
Still haven't heard the new Acid Witch, Deathhammer (if this was even released? No idea!) and Aek Gwi yet, though. I have the feeling all these will be great. I can see some of this challening for a spot on my list.

Snowpiercer (2013) : I wanted to see this one because I love me some dystopian future, sci-fi last-of-humanity -esque films. The cast is amazing and diverse, stretching across big names from America, Europe, and Korea. The action and suspense is well done, the fight choreography doesn't get boring or redundant (I could have done with less guns, just because you would think ricochet bullets or running out of ammo would be a major factor. But it is conveniently forgotten for the sake of pushing the plot.) A gripe I have is the character development feels like an afterthought, when I felt it should have been the driving force. There are also slight bits of comedy that are apparently director Joon-ho Bong's signature but don't sit well because the characters don't particularly have senses of humor (but the lack of humor suits this kind of film to me). So a few things may have been "lost in translation" but overall, if you want a film that's gonna make you eat that entire bowl of popcorn and cheer when certain characters reach their final destinations (see what I did there? XD) then this is a good movie for a night in with friends.
Trailer:
 
EDIT:
I meant to comment on that Leto picture too. LOL. I don't mind his look as much as I just hate his tattoos. They need to fire whoever thought that looked okay. OTL

WolfCop - Yes, this film goes by the awesome title WolfCop. Sadly, the film does not live up to its awesome title or even cooler posters. It's alright, and I was enjoyed, but its 79 minutes is 10-15 minutes too many, and at times it gets too silly. It's a very Troma-esque film, which is pretty awesome, but far from everything works and that's the big problem here. But it was alright, and I am looking forward to the second part.
 

^ Harada's actually causing controversy (again) during pre-"final arcade version" promos with his new characters (I will spoiler the rest for convenience):
 

lynch. will release their new single "EVOKE" on 2015/08/05, followed by their next new single "ETERNITY" on 2015/09/02 and their new album (title unknown) on 2015/10/07.
 
"EVOKE" tracklist:
01. EVOKE
02. DOZE
03. GUILTY
 
They also recorded today's tour final "TOUR'15「THE DECADE OF GREED」-05.08 SHIBUYA KOKAIDO-" for an upcoming DVD (release date unknown).
 
Setlist of today's gig (not sure how much they'll include in the DVD)
 
01. EXODUS 02. GREED 03. DEVIL 04. -273.15℃ 05. EVILLY 06. NEW PSYCHO PARALYZE 07. melt 08. an illusion 09. 矛盾と空 10. THIS COMA 11. forgiven 12. ラティンメリア 13. quarter life 14. the universe 15. THE FATAL HOUR HAS COME 16. MIRRORS 17. THE BLASTED BACK BONE 18. ALL THIS I'LL GIVE YOU 19. pulse_ 20. ADORE 21. from the end 22. CULTIC MY EXECUTION   -ENCORE 1- 23. ANEMONE (Vo.葉月、Pf.堀田建志) 24. PHOENIX 25. INVINCIBLE 26. VANISH 27. LIGHTNING   -ENCORE 2- 28. GALLOWS