The Nolan Gate Return with a New Five Song EP

New Jersey trio The Nolan Gate just posted an unexpected five song EP that arises like a snow bound Goliath welcoming the winter's first great storm. Featuring personnel that have served in acts such as Snag, Dahlia Seed and most recently Davenport Cabinets to name a few. The Nolan Gate have been an under the radar force in heavy music for decades.  Take a listen, download the tracks before passing the link around like stuffing at a Thanksgiving dinner. Maybe it will inspire them to play out more frequently. Only time will tell. JD

https://thenolangate.bandcamp.com/album/serpentus

Images from Kylesa's Visit to J.C.'s Monty Hall

A few weeks back I had the chance to catch personal favorites Kylesa in an intimate setting at Jersey City's Monty Hall. To see the show review you can go to Document Fanzine 

James Damion

Kylesa's Laura Pleasants

Phillip Cope of Kylesa

Savannah GA.'s Kylesa

Inter Arma's Mike Paparo

Richmond VA's Inter Arma

Ontario Canada's Indian Handcrafts

Thinning The Herd - Freedom from the Known

If you've been following the many highs and absolute lows of Thinning the Herd over the past year or so you will know how absolutely important this record is to the band and it's founder Gavin Spielman.
With a number of personnel changes over the years and upon hearing of the very tragic and unforeseen death of the bands drummer Rich Cimato on December 26th, I'm sure many wondered about the future of Thinning the Herd. Would they sink or would they swim? Luckily for all involved, the future would prove the latter.

"Freedom from the Known" is highlighted by Spielman's exceptional guitar wizardry, trademark thick muscular riffs and powerful vocals. The album opens with the Motorhead heaviness and menacing vocals of "Never Wanted". "Doctor Reed", my personal favorite track follows, bringing early Metallica to mind  with it's angry growls and abusive guitar attack.
The albums third track "Sludge" lives up to it's title by bringing things to a slow, grinding pace. It's muddier than a Warrior Dash, with elements of unrelenting bluesy stoner rock, with Sabbath inspired rhythms and power. Spiraling , spoken word samples sprinkled in give the album a nice narrative feel. While the lyrics convey a spiritual and survivalist nature that hints at transcendentalism.

Released on St. Marks Records, "Freedom from the Known" is a stellar collection of songs and a soaring triumph for a band that's been through the ringer. Gavin's musicianship, leadership and overall resilience stand as testament of what can be accomplished with the drive and determination to execute the overall plan. James Damion

Get it Here TTH music