Okay...so the cogs in my strange yet weirdly wonderful mind have been turning...Now new year tends to come with new year's resolutions...ya know the usual "stop smoking", "be more healthy" and "jog everyday"...but hey let's not set ourselves up for failure so easily aye? Keep our exercise routines to extreme moshing and keep our 'night owl' lifestyle rather than devamping into the sunlight.
So instead, Rebel Yell has decided on a more...appropriate resolution...what ever band/album/song that consumes my months I will kindly share with you (put you through the same torture as my family and friends)...so let's get started shall we?!
Tuesday, 14 January 2014
Tuesday, 31 December 2013
Midnight Count Down
Here's the top 10 tracks that rocked my 2013 (not all are neccessarily from 2013 themselves). So let's begin Rebel Yell's count down to midnight:
10)
10)
The Relapse Symphony - "Forgotten"
From: "Time Running Out - EP" (2012)
9)
We Are The Fallen - "Sleep Well My Angel"
From: "Tear The World Down" (2010)
8)
Avenged Sevenfold - "This Means War"
From: "Hail to the King" (2013)
7)
Avatar - "Smells Like a Freak Show"
From: "Black Waltz" (2012)
6)
New Years Day feat. Chris Motionless - "Angel Eyes"
From: "Victims to Villains" (2013)
5)
Green Day - "X-Kid"
From: "¡Trés!" (2012)
4)
Mötley Crüe - "Shout at the Devil"
From: "Shout at the Devil" (1983)
3)
Fearless Vampire Killers - "All Hallows Evil"
From: "All Hallows Evil Single" (2013)
2)
Poison - "Unskinny Bop"
From: "Flesh and Blood" (1990)
1)
Black Veil Brides - "New Year's Day"
From: "Wretched and Divine" (2013)
Reminiscing 2013
5 key aspects of 2013?
Black Veil Brides release their third studio album "Wretched and Divine: Story of the Wild Ones" in January. The album caused some major conflict amongst both fans and critics as some accused of BVB becoming far more commercial, and giving into the pressures of the music industry; whereas other believe it to be their greatest work yet. Personally I love the album, it clearly illustrates how the band have progressed as not only musicians but also as individuals and performers. Moreover it shows how they are maturing in a way that is benefitting their music. It is evident of glam metal influences in this album, as their theatrical looks have diminished somewhat it has instead been stained onto their work, which I believe works extremely well, following in the footsteps of their idols such as Motley Crue, KISS, even Alkaline Trio.
And who can forget My Chemical Romances dramatic breakup in March?! Although tragic saying goodbye to a band that have left such a mark on the rock world, I wish them all they luck in all that they do! Their legacy will always remain, they will always have dedicated fans to return to, but for now we have to let them be and do everything they want to do! Mr Way made the point of assuring fans that this break up was not their fault - instead it was his change of heart towards performing.
One personal heartbreak of my music world was the farewell of Madina Lake. The band concluded their 7 year journey with a 'Farewell Tour' at the end of this year in order to celebrate the making of the trilogy of Madina Lake, along with Matthew Leone's book! Hopefully each member of the band will go on to do even greater things in both their personal lives and professional. Besides I can guaranty that the Leone twins will continue to cause havoc in the music world! Along with Dan and Mateo causing their own versions of mayhem too!
Another thing that I have to say made me chuckle was Def Leppard pressing legal charges on to One Direction, as haven't you noticed but their track "Midnight Memories" sounds extremely like the 70's band hit "Pour Some Sugar on Me"? Go on look up the Directions song and in the chorus sing as loud as you can the chorus to Def Leppard's, go on try it! POUR SOME SUGAR ON ME! IN THE NAME OF LOVE! POUR SOME SUGAR ON ME! COME ON FIRE ME UP! See?
Unfortunately for 1D this track is the title of their new album, if that goes then they are in some serious trouble!
And lastly it was announced that KISS and Nirvana will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame! Exciting news aye? It's about time this legends were in the same room as The Beetles, The Rolling Stones, Guns 'N' Roses and AC/DC!
There are so many things that have happened this year in the music industry, from Joey Jordison leaving Slipknot for "personal reasons" to Def Leppard suing One Direction!
So much drama for one year, let's reminisce shall we?
You haven't heard it yet?! Well I strongly suggest you do! Now! Go! Listen! Have it playing in the background as you continue reading!
If ya need help it can be purchased here:
One personal heartbreak of my music world was the farewell of Madina Lake. The band concluded their 7 year journey with a 'Farewell Tour' at the end of this year in order to celebrate the making of the trilogy of Madina Lake, along with Matthew Leone's book! Hopefully each member of the band will go on to do even greater things in both their personal lives and professional. Besides I can guaranty that the Leone twins will continue to cause havoc in the music world! Along with Dan and Mateo causing their own versions of mayhem too!
Another thing that I have to say made me chuckle was Def Leppard pressing legal charges on to One Direction, as haven't you noticed but their track "Midnight Memories" sounds extremely like the 70's band hit "Pour Some Sugar on Me"? Go on look up the Directions song and in the chorus sing as loud as you can the chorus to Def Leppard's, go on try it! POUR SOME SUGAR ON ME! IN THE NAME OF LOVE! POUR SOME SUGAR ON ME! COME ON FIRE ME UP! See?
VS.
And lastly it was announced that KISS and Nirvana will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame! Exciting news aye? It's about time this legends were in the same room as The Beetles, The Rolling Stones, Guns 'N' Roses and AC/DC!
What is engraved into your mind from 2013?
Tuesday, 3 December 2013
Reading Line Up
We all have our bittersweet teenage horror stories that haunt our existance. However, nine times out of ten these horror stories are the best times in our lives. This is certainly the case for majority of my friends who attended Reading Festival this year...three months later and it is all she can still talk about...And here it comes again!
Reading Lineup official announced at 7pm tonight:
Reading Lineup official announced at 7pm tonight:
Monday, 2 December 2013
"Welcome to the Family"
Avenged Sevenfold
1st December 2013 - Wembley Arena
(Sold out show)
Support: Avatar & Five Finger Death Punch
Making their first headlining tour in the UK since the death of their former drummer, Jimmy"The Rev" Sullivan, Avenged Sevenfold showcase their determination to keep his legacy alive.
I have to say that out of all the bands I have seen live, the song selection choice during the "intervals" between performances was by far the best yet! A constant loop of metal classics such as; AC/DC, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath and Alice Cooper. This playlist alone was enough to get the audience hyped for the upcoming event.
Avatar; Avenges first opening act pleasantly took me by surprise, the Swedish quintet's set was exceedingly captivating. Immediately Johannes Eckerström's attire grasped my attention - his trench coat, make up, hat and marching band baton ensured that all eyes were on him. Moreover, Jonas Jarlsby (guitar), Tim Öhrström (guitars) and Henrik Sandelin's (bass) head banging windmill gave the impression that they were about to take off in flight! As well as John Alfredsson pounding his heart and soul into every song.Their music ability was not at all hindered by their theatrical appearance, this band ticks all the boxes and doesn't rely on an eccentric look to help cruise through the music industry - they definitely have talent too. I recommend them highly to anyone and everyone!
Following on from this,Five Finger Death Punch also stole the crowd with their diverse setlist. It's safe to say that, although a support band, they had a large entourage at this one gig, therefore added to their enthusiasm during their performance. This band complimented both Avenge Sevenfold and Avatar, acting as a suitable bridge between the two bands, making the whole line up work effectively well together as a unit, rather than three separate bands.
Now...the time has come...
Thick, black curtains slowly pull open to reveal...
 |
| Picture taken from their Amsterdam set also used in the UK tour |
Shadows, Gates, Vengeance, Christ and Ilejay's stage presence was nothing but striking; the quintet were humble whilst still keeping to their 'rockstar' attributes nicely! Their performance didn't fail to impress both old and new fans, as their setlist selection covered their second album - Waking the Fallen 2003 to 2013's "Hail to the King"; in the words of M. Shadows "if I know the English, they like their old stuff" this couldn't be more true!
Furthermore, fans were allowed their moment to remember Mr. Jimmy Sullivan, whose last gig was Sonisphere 2009, with the band present; the poignant speech of M.Shadows about Jimmy lead to the dedication of "Fiction", in which a single spot light took the stage, representing their lost brother. The arena was lit up purely by phones and lighters, the sight couldn't have been more beautiful or memorable if it tried! The respect shown by all the fans was overwhelming.
However, the highlight I found was during "Buried Alive", in which Zacky Vengeance smashed his guitar on the stage, combined with Shadow's commentary after the song of the event. Although, Vengeance made a deal with one lucky fan to trade the wrecked guitar for his home-made poster - more of a steal then a deal!
From last nights show it is evident that the band have been able to form strong connections with Ilejay, especially through the band jamming session, in which Gates and Ilejay seemed to be having 'the time of their lives', with Vengeance, Shadows and Christ joining the party session later.
 |
| Setlist Wembley Arena 01/12/13 |
Next time Avenged Sevenfold are in the UK I won't fail to secure my tickets, will you?
Photos taken by Rebel Yell
Monday, 21 October 2013
Madina Diary
Sunday…the
Sabbath day…a day originally set aside for reflection and religion. However, as
people go about their weekly Sunday rituals, I am visiting my own
church…celebrate my own faith…a faith where music dominates and guides.
As usual
the British weather never fails to surprise me…it may have been pouring down with
rain, but nothing will dampen that day.
 |
| The Boiler Room |
Madina Lake
gradually cross off the days on their calendar leading up to their last show in
England, which will take place in “The Garage”, London, October 23rd. But today, October 20th, will be amazing; Guildford’s “The Boiler Room” can fit in 100 people at most,
that’s with the crowd becoming more like a tin of sardines. Immediately everyone knows that tonight will be more of an intimate farewell between friends, rather a
crazy, unknown night between strangers; thus adding to the emotion and
strengthening their ties with their fans.
I had the
privilege of meeting the Leone twins, Nathan and Matthew, hours before their
show commenced. To say that I was excited to see them would be an
understatement, but I made sure to save my “fan girling” until after they left…I
didn’t want to get the ”crazy girl” reputation immediately! (And let’s get this
clear…I wasn’t stalking them I promise! It was complete coincidence! Who
wouldn’t go and say hello one of their biggest idols?!) The boys were friendly
and genuinely happy to see a fan already…and compared to same bands…were
willing to talk and take photographs etc. During our little chat, both Nathan and
Matthew talked about how they will miss the UK and how the tour is coming to an
end too fast…as well as being involved in their brotherly banter.
After
parting ways the heavens decided to open once again, attempting to wash away my
now permanently fixed smile…a task which was pretty much impossible! Roaming
around the high street in search for food and a hot drink soon became a dull
task, and once achieved I bee lined for the venue…after all…queuing for hours
is part of the experience…something that always pays off in the end. In which
it started to pay off instantly, upon arriving I was lucky to meet Kier Kemp
(lead vocals and guitarist for Fearless Vampire Killers); there is a definite
difference between the English front man compared to American…the English being
more reserved …which is neither a better nor worse trait…but then again he
might have just been surprised to see a fan so early! Either way, he was still
as gracious and took the time to speak with me.
 |
| The Super Happy Fun Club Photo from: Contactmusic.com |
Okay…fast-forwarding
past the ease dropping on sound check and Mateo’s continuous popping up at the
window to the gig itself…The Super Happy Fun Club opened the night…seeing as
they tour with Madina almost every time it made sense for them to be part of
the grand sending off. Their set definitely woke up the crowd, who had been
standing for hours in the cold and wet weather…well…some of them…their pop rock
sound definitely created the right ambiance to get the crowds hearts racing and
ready for the penultimate band – Fearless Vampire Killers.
Although the band experienced numerous technical difficulties during their set, they were never once fazed! Even when Laurence and Drew had to share a microphone, they still managed to make a game out of it, making the crowd enjoy the show even more. As each song progressed into each other the crowd
 |
| Fearless Vampire Killers Photo Taken From: downloadfestival.co.uk |
 |
| Left to Right: Fearless Vampire Killers Set List, Madina Lake's Set List |
Fearless
Vampire Killers left a buzz in the audience that refused to vacate; excitement
escalated ten-fold. The crowd was forced to wait in anticipation for the band
that most had come to see…Madina Lake. After what seemed like hours, the lights
went out and “The Auspice” began to play…causing the crowd to become
silent. Here Madina Lake take their places for the first and last time under
this roof. Instantly the crowd is electrified by their idols, causing a
current to pass through every member of the audience. I can safely say that
this is oneof the best gigs I have been to! As within the opening half an hour
Matthew handed me his bass pick, whether he recognised me from earlier or not,
it was definitely the best thing that happened to me! Through the entire set
Nathan, Matthew and Mateo would cast smiles to their fans. As usual, Nathan
literally becomes one with the crowd, with a series of stage dives and breaking
a speaker in the process! At one point the crowd was covered in water as
Nathan’s water bottles are tossed back and forth. Before leaving the stage for
the first time, Nathan gave a heartfelt speech that reminds the crowd this is a
farewell tour…that Madina will not be returning…yet the encores makes the night
a party once again…although it seems the crowd had the power of influence at
one point as Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” becomes an added song to their
set.
 |
| Live images taken by: Rebel Yell |
There’s so
much to say about this one night, it is
either difficult to put into words or reminiscing makes me excited enough that
I accidently brush over, or lightly dwell on detail.
I came away
from that night bruised and battered…but it was completely worth it!
Every fan
hopes that this isn’t a farewell to Madina Lake…simply just BRB.
~ Rebel
Yell
Saturday, 19 October 2013
Halestorm/Shinedown/Alter Bridge Review
England...home to some of the most inspirational musicians in the world...from the 1960's 'The Beatles', to the punk rebellion of the Sex Pistols and The Clash.
This story takes place in one of the greatest cities that music flourishes...London. And what awaits the evening of October 18th? A gig that should more be regarded as a mini festival that simply "support acts followed by the main"- Halestorm...Shinedown...Alterbridge prepare to play their sold out show at Wembley Arena.
Halestorm kick start the night with "Love Bites", already Lzzy Hale is show casing her extraordinary voice, as her powerful vocals wake the dozing crowd. Despite her chose of footwear, Hale does not let her heels stop her rocking hard with Joe Hottinger, Josh Smith, and her brother Arejay. Halestorm's continuous energy projected onto the crowd throughout their entire set, however ended their night with their new single "Here's To Us". Although not their most lively song, it still had the audience captivated with a buzz that remained long after they left.
Their setlist consisted of:
Just fifteen minutes later Shinedown dominate the stage like it's their rightful home; however their choice of attire and continuous supply of roses suggested the evening was more like an intimate gathering that a rock show - although still managed to get the audience on their feet within the first few minutes. Brent Smith's equally as powerful voice subjected the crowd into a series of united voices and radical mosh pits. Once again the band moved as a unit, playing off each others strengths and energy to create the show of a life time. Unlike most bands, Brent Smith reminded his crowd...his people...that they are not alone in this world, that "rock and roll is not a genre...but a way of life" His moving speech definitely made the crowd listen and think about the place they were, think about the meaning behind the music they were listening to...and how the bands we idolise are just as human as we are.
Now...time for the main act...following Shinedown's hour long set Alter Bridge take the stage. This is who the crowd have been waiting for.
This story takes place in one of the greatest cities that music flourishes...London. And what awaits the evening of October 18th? A gig that should more be regarded as a mini festival that simply "support acts followed by the main"- Halestorm...Shinedown...Alterbridge prepare to play their sold out show at Wembley Arena.
 |
| Taken From: Metal Hanger Left to Right: Joe Hottinger, Josh Smith, Lzzy Hale, Arejay Hale |
Halestorm kick start the night with "Love Bites", already Lzzy Hale is show casing her extraordinary voice, as her powerful vocals wake the dozing crowd. Despite her chose of footwear, Hale does not let her heels stop her rocking hard with Joe Hottinger, Josh Smith, and her brother Arejay. Halestorm's continuous energy projected onto the crowd throughout their entire set, however ended their night with their new single "Here's To Us". Although not their most lively song, it still had the audience captivated with a buzz that remained long after they left.
Their setlist consisted of:
- Love Bites
- Mz Hyde
- Freak Like Me
- Dissident Aggressor (Judas Priest Cover)
- Miss The Misery
- Here's To Us
Arejay's own drum interlude did not fail to impress the crowd he was entertaining. From insane drumming, combined with his own little work out session, to audience interaction. This is one drummer that refuses to sit quietly at the back, instead possesses the correct qualities that give him that slight edge - and definitely has all the energy every great drummer has in order to create that rock personality needed!
The band certainly came across as a connected unit that suggests that their future is a strong one. As well being musically gifted, the band will soon return to the UK...this time filling that Arena on a headlining tour!
 |
| Left to Right: Zach Myrers, Brent Smith, Eric Bass and Barry Kerch |
Setlist:
- Devour
- Sound of Madness
- Enemies
- Unity
- I'll Follow You
- Diamond Eyes (Boom-Lay Boom-Lay Boom)
- If You Only Knew
- Second Chance
- Simple Man (Lynyrd Skynyrd Cover)
- Bully
 |
| Left to Right: Scott Phillips, Mark Tremonti, Myles Kennedy and Brian Marshall |
I'll admit, seeing Alter Bridge for the first time I had my expectations...in which towards the end of their set they met nicely. Despite their slow start, the band began to feed off the crowd's energy...weaving it into their own set.
Their main goal tonight was to show the world how epic their new album "Fortress" is...however managed to slip in enough classic songs to keep their long term fans satisfied.
Just 30 minutes after Shinedown, Alter Bridge took their stage and didn't leave their fans disappointed...instead hungry for more. Personally, I found through breaking their set up with "Watch Over You", Alter Bridge both allowed the crowd to recuperate from their exhausting moshing sessions, as well as indulge on the delights of an acoustic guitar.
Setlist:
- Addicted to Pain
- White Knuckles
- Come to Life
- Before Tomorrow Comes
- Farther Than the Sun
- Brand New Start
- Cry of Achilles
- Ghost of Days Gone By
- The Uninvited
- Ties That Bind
- Broken wings
- Metalingus
- Blackbird
- Watch Over You (acoustic)
- Rise Today
- Open Your Eyes
- Slip to the Void
- Isolation
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