I have been waiting a long time for a horror film to come out with an original plot, and cinematography that reminded me of how Halloween used to be growing up. Finally, to my surprise I was introduced to the film Trick ‘r Treat by Michael Dougherty. The film was inspired by the directors short film “Season’s Greetings”, which was based on a creepy little character named Sam. Originally slated for a 2007 release, the film was pushed back for various reasons and eventually came out straight to DVD in 2009. Since its release, fans and critics alike have praised the movie for its originality and visual appeal. It remains one of the only modern horror films that can take me back to when I was a kid getting ready for my favorite season/holiday of the year.
The lead singer/guitarist of legendary metal band Celtic Frost took part in this interview a couple years back, and his words sum up what many musicians myself included think about the record industry. The guy conducting the interview seems to be either placating Tom, or just very nervous while asking terribly stupid questions. He was under the impression Tom was just being stubborn on purpose, but he doesn’t realize Tom is speaking very honestly. The music industry needs more people like Tom to balance out the unhealthy level of puppets to actual individuals who refuse to give into greed.
Its few and far between to have an artist who is so unique that they will promise to give you a glimpse into their own world if your willing to go for the ride. His voice is so abnormally diverse that he can sound like a monster one minute, and the next reveal a smooth vintage texture that will cause you to actually smell the booze and cigarettes as if you were sitting in a jazz club right next to his piano. If someone were to list the names of all the musicians Tom Waits inspired, we would have a list that crossed planets. While many artists derive inflated egos after winning numerous awards, it almost seems as though nobody even told Waits he won anything. He remains one of the most grounded, creative, and intelligent musicians I have ever had the pleasure of listening to. Not to mention, when he lands a role in a major movie such as “Bram Stokers Dracula” his wide open personality converts to the big screen just as well as it does on his records. It may take some getting used to upon first listen, but its without question worth it. If your interest is sparked, don’t stop with one song. They are all different, and his albums have a life and vision all their own.
Let’s make something clear, Im talking about the original Freddy (Robert Englund) and not the atrocious modern portrayal found in todays remake of the original Nightmare film. The series of Nightmare on Elm Street films was an open canvas for horror, comedy, gore, and building the legacy of a pop culture icon. Many people criticize Freddy for his overuse of comedic performances in past sequels, but these movies were made to entertain and satisfy, not win Oscars. I have always believed that Freddy’s twisted sense of humor went hand in hand with his gruesome executions. He is one of the first horror characters that fans began to take sides with because of his uniquely horrific personality. The films continue to provide me personally with visual and sonic inspiration. From the always original and often hilarious death scenes, to the bizarre and mind numbing synthesized soundtracks. There is even a song on the next album Im currently finishing up which is noticeably inspired by the familiar Nightmare theme. Will the music video follow the same suit? You’ll have to wait and see!
Chances are if you were a kid growing up in the 80s/early 90s, you had a Nintendo, and you played Mega Man religiously. If it so happened that you were also a musician, you never realized that this music was going to work its way into your subconscious like a maggot on a dead body. After years of ruining my vision as a child devoted to the Mega Man series (mostly 1-3), the music has made its way into my own work years later. If you are in a metal band and have trouble drawing inspiration for a solo, you can always pop in the little blue robot and inspire your solo to the point where all your missing is a fan blowing, and a mountain top to play it on.
Each week in “Unearthing the Metal Underground,” we spotlight a few quality unsigned bands in an attempt to spread the word and expose acts that make the underground great. This week we’re returning again to the realm of solo extreme metal to uncover three more one-man bands.
1970s horror movie trailers have become a staple for horror fans. They represent a time when horror was unique, shocking, and actually scared people to the point where they would sleep with the lights on. Almost the complete opposite of what horror has become today, where the films provide a sense of comic relief and have turned into some what of a novelty. With the rise of movie remakes and extreme lack of unique material, these old horror trailers provide a look into the past when horror was at its best.
There is always a band that comes before all the others in your range of inspiration, somewhat acting as a “grandfather” to the other bands you find. Anathema was that band for me growing up. They were always the one I went back to, and derived an immense foundation of passion and atmosphere that no other band could provide. This group of Liverpool Brits were one of the first to seal the “Doom” label on heavy metal. It wasn’t until 1995 when their sound took a drastic change. The exit of singer Darren White carried guitar player Vincent Cavanagh into the role of frontman. Vincent had a different style, and marked the turn of the band into a more relaxed atmospheric sound, while slowing letting go of their standard doom laden edge.
Autumns Eyes is seeking models to showcase the new merchandise to coincide with the upcoming release “Please Deceive Me”. Models will receive free clothing, and will take the pictures on their own terms. If you are interested, please click the image below to apply!
Best known as a comic book created by Sam Kieth, The Maxx also spawned a short lived animated series on MTVs “Oddities” show during the 1990s. The series follows a hero/homeless man who shifts between two alternate realities. One taking place in a very dank and dark city environment, and the other a contrasting parallel world called the Outback. I am a huge fan of both the comic and the series. So much to the point where one of the tracks on the next Autumns Eyes album is actually inspired by the story itself, suitably titled “Pangea”.
