It’s gettin’ hot in the late July blogosphere…. Today we’ve got Vestal Claret’s just-released remix of their 2011 debut album Bloodbath and Drainbow’s upcoming LP The Tower of Flints blaring from the laptop speakers. Vestal Claret is a band that pushes boundaries; they were doing occult metal before its trendy resurgence, as early as 2006. … Continue reading Listening Lately: Vestal Claret (Again!) and Drainbow
Author: Jessie May
Bandcamp vs. Spotify: Which is Better?
This one is a no-brainer for underground bands: bandcamp offers the best opportunity to create revenue by selling music and merch directly to your fans. The fan profile feature also adds a social media aspect to the site, allowing users to browse each other’s collections and find new tunes. And with 2020’s Bandcamp Fridays on… Continue reading Bandcamp vs. Spotify: Which is Better?
Listening Lately: Brimstone Coven, Khemmis, and Slow Draw
I belong to a dying breed of music listeners that still burns CDs and plays them in the car. Here’s what’s been in rotation this past week: Brimstone Coven’s new album The Woes of A Mortal Earth is due out August 21st through Ripple Music. A spin of the promo on the ride to Grandma’s… Continue reading Listening Lately: Brimstone Coven, Khemmis, and Slow Draw
Alternative Control is on Patreon — But Why?
That’s right, the blog — or rather, “Jessie May on the Web” — launched a Patreon last week! This subscription crowdfunding platform is becoming more and more popular with content creators and fans. After just one day of having the page up, I could see why: in less than 24 hours, Patreon subscriptions raised more… Continue reading Alternative Control is on Patreon — But Why?
AltCtrlToob Video Premiere: BONE CHURCH Sits Down with Charlie Platteborze
Connecticut doom rockers Bone Church sat down at Altones last month with Charlie Platteborze to chat about how the band got started, their relationship with Ripple Music, and more. Presented by SCENE Productions, it’s quite the enlightening interview. For instance, find out which member of Bone Church may or may not have a family history… Continue reading AltCtrlToob Video Premiere: BONE CHURCH Sits Down with Charlie Platteborze
Track Premiere: “Stone” by The Hawkins
Another group of Swedish retro rockers on The Sign Records, The Hawkins turn it up to Eleven with vocal harmonies, guitar acrobatics, and a fun-loving sound that this editor thoroughly appreciates in 2020’s bleak landscape. Take a vacation from your COVID staycation with “The Stones,” off their upcoming record Silence is a Bomb: Gaphals ·… Continue reading Track Premiere: “Stone” by The Hawkins
Album Review: Fear by Valkyrie (July 24th, Relapse)
My propensity for writing introductions has declined in old age, so let’s just launch right into it… Virginia rockers Valkyrie are releasing their fourth album on July 24th, 2020, once again via Relapse Records. If you liked Shadows, you’ll certainly be purchasing Fear— with the Adams brothers on dueling guitars and the same rhythm section… Continue reading Album Review: Fear by Valkyrie (July 24th, Relapse)