Bands, Tours, and Shows Oh My!

We've scheduled a few shows recently, some for bands that aren't here often, or it's their first time. It's good to see the virtual American doors opening up for such cool European bands.

Tomorrow is Moonspell and Katatonia. I am not sure if either band has been here before, if so, not more than a few times. It's at Peabody's.

Next month, it's Blind Guardian and Leaves' Eyes. BG has been in the US before, but Leaves' is totally new. Leaves' Eyes is the "new" band featuring Liv Kristine from Theatre of Tragedy.

In December, it's In Flames, Soilwork (who we've seen before), and Lacuna Coil! It's great to get to see LC outside of Ozzfest. Last year's OF simply had too many nu-metal and metalcore (crap) bands for us to attend. Unfortunately, there are a few good bands that we miss because of this (LC, Voivod, etc..) but not now!

NP:

My Dying Bride - A Line of Deathless Kings (2006)

(yes, mp3s, but it comes out next week and I will own it for sure). This is one is a doom classic, already. A must-have.

Draconian - The Burning Halo (2006)

I was never too excited about this band before, but this recent album has raised them up to stand next to some of the best doom/gothic metal bands. Without trying to categorize, fans of MDB, Tristania, Epica, etc, will likely enjoy Draconian.

Moonspell - Memorial (2006)

I found Moonspell years ago when I discovered this awesome Euro metal scene (Netherlands, Sweden, etc) where gothic metal reigned supreme. I really enjoyed Moonspell's vampiric and somewhat pagan vibe. For a few albums, they strayed from this formula to produce material that was a little less metal and honestly, less interesting. 'Memorial' is a return to the heavy and dark feel of 'Wolfheart'. It rocks from end to end. I am so excited about seeing these guys tomorrow! Thanks to Julie for buying this for me for Sweetest Day - a sweet, dark gift!

.... and rumor has it (more than rumor actually) that Solitude Aeturnus is about to unlease their LONG awaiting new album very soon - called 'Alone'. These guys are regarded as one of the masters of classic doom metal. They sit at the top with MDB, Candlemass, and even Black Sabbath. Must... have...

So yeah.. MDB, come to the US and grab SA for your tourmates. It will be a show for the ages.