AltCtrlToob is proud to present the “Phylactery” Playthrough by Philadelphia’s Parius! Say that ten times fast and the next beer’s on us…. Seriously though, this Pennsylvania prog-death outfit is making waves with their upcoming release The Eldritch Realm. Combine the snarl of Black Dahlia with the melodicism and dynamics of Obscura, and you have this immediately appealing… Continue reading AltCtrlToob Video Premiere: “Phylactery” Playthrough by Parius
Category: Music
Curtis Dewar: Family Man, PR Man, and Giver of Dangerous Advice
When my band was looking to get our EP heard beyond two counties in Connecticut, Curtis Dewar of Dewar PR came highly recommended as a person who could get our music to the ears of people who would write about it. Mid-level bands (or those seeking to be mid-level) may try to downplay the fact… Continue reading Curtis Dewar: Family Man, PR Man, and Giver of Dangerous Advice
Listening Lately: Mourn the Light’s Weight of the World
This week I was happy to get a review request from a great new band on the Connecticut heavy music scene, Mourn the Light. The southeastern CT group formed in 2017 and have just released their three-track Weight of the World EP. Citing influences like Clutch and Crowbar, this is a strong debut that will… Continue reading Listening Lately: Mourn the Light’s Weight of the World
Don’t Try to “Make It”: An Interview with Phil From Khemmis
If Denver doom quartet Khemmis made waves with their 2015 debut, Absolution, their sophomore album Hunted was a tsunami. Now on the eve of their third release, Desolation, vocalist and guitarist Phil Pendergast talked with Alternative Control about the band’s songwriting, imagery, and the ideal of “making it.” Weekend warriors of heavy metal, read on…… Continue reading Don’t Try to “Make It”: An Interview with Phil From Khemmis
Sticky Situation: A Review of GEPH’s Apophenia
The Chapman Stick is not an instrument you’d expect to see when going to a local metal show. In fact, the only thing you’re less likely to see than a band with one Chapman Stick is a band with two Chapman Sticks — and that’s exactly what you’ll find with Boston-based GEPH. Self-described as “Progressive… Continue reading Sticky Situation: A Review of GEPH’s Apophenia
Open Heart Surgery: A Review of YOB’s Our Raw Heart
I’m greatly relieved by Mike Scheidt’s improved health. I remember it wasn’t long after my interview with him back in March of 2015 that he was overcome by a terrible affliction that almost killed him. He’s a super nice guy who’s very passionate about his music. He has a very likable and easy-going personality that… Continue reading Open Heart Surgery: A Review of YOB’s Our Raw Heart
Listening Lately: Mountains of Dusty Witches
May 2018 has been a great month for stoner/doom, both in terms of new releases and promos in the blog inbox. While you’re waiting for that Khemmis album to drop, do yourself a favor and listen to albums from Mountain Dust and Witch Mountain. Montreal heavy blues dealers Mountain Dust converted me with some demos… Continue reading Listening Lately: Mountains of Dusty Witches