KREATOR : STRONGEST OF THE STRONG - LIVE IN MALAYSIA : ZEPP KUALA LUMPUR : 25/01/2024

The Teutonic giant finally returned for the 3rd time to pay homage to their Malaysian fans in the span of 19 years after the Backroom (2005) and ill-fated Scandals Club (2014) shows. Though some pain will (still) last to those few after the Scandals Club final hour debacle, the experience at meet & greet session held at Karunguni Campbell should offered a bit of redemption. Moving on, 10 years has since passed, resentment died, and just like the lyric had forewarned - "hate is the virus of this world".

Finally arriving on Southeast Asia shores, nearly 2 years after the release of 'Hate Uber Alles' (2022), a big appreciation should be given to Rockstage Entertainment and Lampuneon for putting their battle jackets back on and gave us, probably, the final teutonic experience from Kreator. While Zepp Kuala Lumpur remained as the credible venue to host the show.

Thrash Metal was supposed to be fast and ferocious, and good moment would normally end suddenly at the blink of the eyes. It was a short set with 15 songs, taken less than 90 minutes but well delivered and satisfying. 

When Mille demanded for wall of death, circle pit and whatever blitzkrieg on floor, it was brought to him at once, so he remembered that Kuala Lumpur thrashed that night. Mille can also be funny at time, asking those at the balcony to jump down to the pit, haha. He also picked on the crowds to go louder, to that, got his tongue twisted on the word 'each' and cursed on it, as all laughed to his joke. 

"Kuala Lumpur, the Kreator has returned" - the band performed to a good setlist, mostly of 2 classic tracks each from older albums - 'Pleasure To Kill' (1986), 'Extreme Aggression' (1989) and 'Coma Of Souls' (1990) and stretched to newer ones - 'Gods Of Violence' (2017) and 'Hate Uber Alles' (2022). Mille also reminisced their Malaysian debut back in 2005 as well as their 2014 cancelled show and pledged that the band will come back in the future. "Phobia" sounded good, while "Extreme Aggression", "Terrible Certainty" and "Flag Of Hate" would cause riot (literally) if it were not delivered that night. It made one 54 years old beside us grinned in orgasm. "Riot Of Violence" got Ventor on mic, at his age, he was monstrous on drum. While "Tormentor" closed their set with no encore and left the crowds in endless pain, dying for more. 

It was also a pleasure to catch up with JB old fiends who came for the show, safe journey home guys. As it settled, it was indeed a night of teutonic might to remember ...

Setlist

1) Hate Uber Alles (Hate Uber Alles)

2) People of The Lie (Coma Of Souls)

3) Betrayer (Extreme Aggression)

4) Phobia (Outcast)

5) Hordes Of Chaos (Hordes Of Chaos)

6) Hail To The Hordes (Gods Of Violence)

7) Ripping Corpse (Pleasure To Kill)

8) Riot of Violence (Pleasure To Kill)

9) When The Sun Burns Red (Coma Of Souls)   

10) Strongest Of The Strong (Hate Uber Alles)

11) Extreme Aggression (Extreme Aggression)

12) Terrible Certainty (Terrible Certainty)

13) Fallen Brother (Gods Of Violence)

14) Flag Of Hate (Flag Of Hate)

15) Tormentor (Endless Pain)

CROMOK : FOREVER IN TIME 30TH ANNIVERSARY : ZEPP KUALA LUMPUR : 14/10/2023

CROMOK is a household name now. But back then, no one can imagine that a group of Malaysian students from Wollongong University, Australia would send a wave back to Malaysian shore with their brand of Thrash Metal. 'Image Of Purity' would cause a storm and it never stopped. It remained as one important Thrash Metal legacy.

The 30th Anniversary 'Forever In Time' show proved that CROMOK still remained lethal on stage. Sam (bass/voice) was simply legendary. Apis Cropox (drum) left his mark as the rightful heir to Miji. While Karl (guitar) and Shah Ziri (guitar) defined what it meant to be heavy. The venue at Zepp Kuala Lumpur was perfect to channel the powerful sound of CROMOK and the lighting play was outstanding. The fans were also brilliant. 

However, we personally thought that the vibe of 'Forever In Time' was not fully felt. Though the video montage at back screen did touch/talk about the album, the tracks were placed everywhere in the setlist. How we wished that all the tracks from 'Forever In Time' were executed in its entirety at the first hour after "Memories" opened majestically to start the celebration. Yet, we understood, the need to blend and deliver hits from other albums as each fan has their own preferred album.

Just like everybody else who were 'Image Of Purity' graduates, we were also ready for "reach for the sky for the three sun" but it never came. While "Misty" and "Journey" were grandly cherished. Yet, we never got the chance to celebrate 30 years of 'Image Of Purity'. Whereas the band delivered more tracks from 'Yours Truly' and Sam confessed that they finally played "Somewhere Anywhere" for the first time on stage.

The 'metal-lempong' did not contributed much as the band aimed to be 'Thrashditional'. But those traditional elements did stand out and blended really well during "Another You". The 'seruling' also did found some moments especially during the extended solo nearing the end of "Journey". But if given a choice, we would prefer the original version. 

Applaud for the recognition given to the founding member, the late Din, via special appearance of Kamelia, his daughter. He who never got the chance to perform live on his own soil with CROMOK. Al-fatihah. Everybody will remember the track "Farewell" with heartfelt meaning from now on, as it has become the farewell anthem to Miji. Congratulation CROMOK on the 30 years of 'Forever In Time'. Thank you Digent Media and Lampuneon. 

Salam to the Sabahan fans who have adopted (literally) us for the night as one of theirs, you all rule brothers !

SWEET CHARITY : BERITA GEMPA : ARENA LARKIN JOHOR BAHRU : 29/07/2023

Defying age and blessed with good health, the legendary SWEET CHARITY gave a nearly 3 hours of satisfying and memorable musical display, hard hitting, progressively groovy and full of persona. As always, Johor Bahru gave a loud welcome and continuous sing along.

The Ahmad Jaffar/Rosli Mohalim segment was fun with the crowds joined in especially on "Jalan Malam" singing to 'raba-raba'. It took until "Zakiah" that the sound finally felt right. It was distinctive and soulful throughout "Tanjung Puteri" to "Batu". While the track "Ribut 10.59 Pagi" definitely caused a massive 'ribut' at Arena Larkin. The band performed 25 songs including the medley of "Sama-Sama Merasa/Bersenda/Bulat-Bulat" with main selection came from the album 'Pelarian'. Hat off to Megatix, Lampuneon etc for job well done.

The last time the band visited Johot Bahru was during Konsert Dimensi Rockarisma (2013) at the old MBJB Stadium that later had to give way its location for development.

Yet, will this mark the end of SWEET CHARITY long musical journey on stage when age keeps on catching up ? It is not for us to say. Whatever comes, their history will live on ...

ARCHIVE : FURIA (Pol) : INTERVIEW

 

 

This supposed to be the 1st interview to appear in the 6th issue of our printed fanzine, which is to be out back in 2010. The interview was conducted in Oct '2009 to promote the band's 2nd full length album - 'Grudzien Za Grudniem' (2009) under Pagan Records.

 

We have been hard headed for years not to publish this interview online until now. Reason being - there is still that small hope to get the printed issue out. When ? We do not know ...

After 11 long years, though all hope is still not lost, we finally bring forth Polish utter darkness, the Necrofolk supremist ...

 

WELCOME FURIA ! WHO IS THERE ANSWERING THIS INTERVIEW ?

As usual - it is the Abyss that answers this questions. It doesn't matter whose mouth it uses ...

 

HOW'S THE EXTREME METAL SCENE IN POLAND ?

Extreme metal scene in Poland consist of few valuable persons, definitely larger amount of valuable sounds, and plague of e-knights.

 

FURIA SHARES THE SAME MEMBERS WITH THE BAND - 'MASSEMORD', SO WE SAY FURIA MUST BE A PROJECT BAND ...

FURIA and MASSEMORD are like two fantastic girls, of which one sucks as hell, and the other is not afraid to experiment with her rectum. We choose an option according to what we need more in particular moment. You cannot speak about priorities in this case.

 

THE NEW ALBUM IS CALLED 'DECEMBER AFTER DECEMBER' ('GRUDZIEN ZA GRUDNIEM'). WHAT IS THERE WITH THE MONTH OF DECEMBER ?

December is the month of happiness, homeliness and gifts. We wish it could last whole year.

 

IT CAME OUT ON 12/10/2009 WHICH WE WERE TOLD THAT IT WAS THE DAY TO CELEBERATE THE 427TH ANNIVERSARY OF A DAY THAT NEVER CAME IN HISTORY OF POLAND. WHAT IS THAT ?!

12/10 is one of few days cut from calendar of 1582 so as to accomplish reform of Gregorian Calendar. In Poland and some other European countries, October of that year had only 21 days. This date perfectly corresponds with the message we're spreading with the new album ...

 

TRACK NO 5 COMES WITH NO TITLE, PERHAP LISTENERS CAN SUGGEST ONE ...

We don't care what interpretations of this track may appear. I think the title of that track is actually perfect thought abbreviation of the very idea presented in every sound and word of 'Grudzien Za Grudniem'.

BUT ONE THING FOR SURE, THE NEW ALBUM SIMPLY DESTROYS ALL THOSE CRAP RELEASES THAT WE HAVE SEEN TO MUCH LATELY ...
Organize a concert of FURIA in MALAYSIA and you shall see what does it means to destroy rivals.
 

IS WRITING MATERIALS COME EASY FOR THE BAND ?

It depends on severity of winter and dreariness of autumn.

FURIA ADMIRES NOTHINGNESS BECAUSE ONE IS DEFINITELY MORE INERESTING THAN EVERYTHING THAT MANKIND COULD EVER OFFER. CARE TO ELEBORATE ...
The problem is, that having no message is far more fascinating than any tries of pseudo philosophical black metal gibberish about nothing. Read interviews with 'hordes' that in basements and garages try to destroy Israel, Vatican, capitalism and discos. However, quoted statement is not related only to Black Metal scene yet it refers to every ideology and philosophical doctrines man has ever created.

DESCRIBE YOUR LIVE SHOW ...
During our concerts, there is always the Devil sitting in the front row. He said lately that he would like to visit Kuala Lumpur ...

FURIA is a band full of persona, so watch out for their answers when we tried to bring them back to talk about their early releases ... Hail Namtar !

IS YOUR DEBUT ALBUM (2007) - 'MARTWA POLSKA JESIEN' ('THE DEAD POLISH AUTUMN') SIGNIFICANT FOR THE BAND TO GET NOTICED ?

I don't know. I don't care. Every sound we left behind has the same importance for us.

LISTENERS JUST DON'T GET ENOUGH WITH THE 'PLON' EP (2009). SHOW THEM SOME MERCY NEXT TIME ...
We won't. Moreover, we shall mass-produce such short materials in the nearest future doing everyone in spite. Currently we are even working on such mini-dose of sounds inspired by Silesian meteorology.

WILL THE EARLY DEMOS - 'I SPOKOJ' (2004) and 'I KRZYK' (2005) BE RE-RELEASE SOMEHOW ?
Nowadays we are monitoring prices that demo reach on e-auctions and in appropriate moment we shall secretly duplicate them and of course sell them as ultra-unique items, hehe ...

THE ALBUM COVERS MOSTLY APPEAR SIMPLE ...
Simply because that what's we wanted. We despise nowadays 'beautiful' (those perfectly arranged in photoshop graphics) Black Metal booklets. Besides, imaginating is more fascinating than seeing ...

HOW'S WORKING WITH PAGAN RECORDS SO FAR ? IS WORKING WITH SMALL LOCAL LABEL MORE SATISFYING THAN WORKING WITH THOSE BIGGER ONES ABROAD ?
PAGAN RECORDS is a good label - above all because there are huge chances that it will exist in the next few years and there will not be a problems with availability of our materials. I doubt that cooperation with bigger labels abroad would be satisfying for us - where the fuck is the sense to put 30 dicks in the same - no matter how gorgeous - cunt ? Yet there is no satisfaction for both sides.

WHAT'S NEW FROM MASSEMORD ? NEW ALBUM IN THE MAKING ?
Yes. After exhausting Polish tour during September, we can finally concentrate on successor of 'The Whore Of Hate' materials. Most likely we shall create the most uncompromising album in the history of Polish Black Metal that shall promote our sick egoism and reject throngs of our loyal fans.

WE WONDER, DO MEMBERS OF BLACK METAL BAND NEED TO LOOK GRIM EVERYTIME ?
Yes. That's why we avoid candies and orgasms.

THANKS FURIA ! END THIS INTERVIEW YOUR WAY ...
Do you have some cool pictures of Malaysian girls ?

link : let-the-world-burn.org/
facebook : facebook.com/furiabandpoland
label : pagan-records.com

ARCHIVE : MANEGARM (Swe) - INTERVIEW

 

We recently uncovered some of our unpublished interviews that were supposed to come out in our 6th issue (printed fanzine) scheduled to be released in 2010.

 

But our enthusiasm to carry on with the fanzine back then was in limbo. The excitement will come unexpectedly one day, and suddenly gone by tomorrow. Somehow, we could see everything drawing end despite all the efforts we have tried to put in. At last, the enthusiasm just ended naturally as other commitments took their big parts in our life. We have strived but lost. But who knows what the future might holds. 

This is an outdated interview conducted way back in Feb '2010 to promote the band's new and 6th studio album - 'Nattvasen' ('Night Creatures') which was released in Nov '2009 under Swedish - Regain Records. A lot of times and efforts have been put out to make this happened, not only from us, but from the band itself. Hence, as to honour them, we are to share it here under our - 'Archive - Unpublished Interview' ...

We got to know about the Swedish band MANEGARM when Ron of DISPLEASED RECORDS sent us promo of their debut album 'Nordstjarnans Tidsalder' (means 'The Age Of The Northstar') back in 1998. Interestingly, the band wrote and sang in their mother tongue, and they also incorporated touches of folk. To us, it was a strike of genius, and a positive review was put out in our issue # 3 (November '1998).

It was not until 12 years later, in year 2010, during the time of 'Nattvasen' that we finally got in touch with Erik Grawsio (drum/vocal) for the interview.

At time of writing this, the band has left as a 3-piece (with session for live show), and he has since 2013 fronted MANEGARM on vocal/bass (started from their 7th studio album - 'Legions Of The North'). The band will celebrate the release of their 9th studio album - 'Fornadarsagor' in April '2019 under Austrian - Napalm Records.

So, enjoy the interview, as much as we've enjoyed doing it back then ...

 

WELCOME ERIK ! LET US HAVE SOME OPENING WORDS FOR ALL THE METAL HEADS HERE IN MALAYSIA ...

Hi there all Malaysian metal heads ! This would be MANEGARM first Malaysian interview so I really hope you'll enjoy your reading.

 

HOW'S THE BAND DOING NOW ? NEW TOUR PLANNED ? WRITING NEW MATERIALS ?

We're all okay. We're planning a tour this year but nothing is ready yet. Some new songs are in the pipeline, and well do some demo recordings at our rehearsal place quite soon.

 

LET'S START WITH SOMETHING EASY ...

 

HOW DO YOU SAY 'METAL REIGNS SUPREME' IN SWEDISH ?

'Metal Regerar Overlagset' ... : )

 

WHAT DOES 'MANEGARM' ACTUALLY MEANS ?

MANEGARM is the name of a wolf in the Norse mythology. He lived in a dark and terrible forest called the Iron Forest. He feasted on blood from dying people. During 'Ragnarok' - the end of the world, he hunted the moon which caused an eclipse of the moon, and he spitted blood among him that blackened the sun ...

 

YOUR DEBUT ALBUM 'NORDSTJARNANS TIDSALDER' CAUGHT MANY BY SURPRISE WITH ITS STRIKE OF GENIUS. HOW SIGNIFICANT WAS THE ALBUM IN PUTING WHERE YOU ARE TODAY ?

You could say that this was the time where it all started. I think the first album was very important for us. First of all because we got the chance to release an album and reach out to the listeners. We also started experimenting with the 'sound/style' which later on would turn into 'our' sound.

 

THE BAND FINALLY MOVED AWAY FROM DISPLEASED RECORDS. WHY THE NEED TO SIGN TO A NEW LABEL ?

The contract with Displeased Records reached its end first of all. We had released five albums and collaborated with them for nearly ten years. At that time, we also wanted some 'fresh air'. No hard feelings, we just wanted a new label with the possibility to take us one step further.

 

WHOSE IDEA WAS IT TO ADD 'VIOLIN' IN THE FIRST PLACE ? IT REALLY BRINGS A FRESH DIMENSION INTO THE MUSIC ...

I don't really remember, maybe Jonas (note : Jonas Almkvist - guitar) ... or Pierre (note : Pierre Wilhelmsson - bass) ... maybe both ...

 

HAS MANEGARM TOTALLY MOVED AWAY FROM ALL THE 'BLACK METAL' INFLUENCES YOU STARTED WITH ? THE ALBUMS WERE TO FOLLOW AFTER YOUR DEBUT WERE STRONG 'VIKING/FOLK' ORIENTED ?

We have gotten old and tired and so we have left that behind a bit. But we still put in some 'black metal' stuff once in a while. The song "Vetrarmgin" on the new album is a bit 'black metal' oriented if you ask me ...

 

THE EP 'URMINNES HAVD - THE FOREST SESSIONS' (2006) CAME OUT EVEN DIFFERENTLY WITH ITS 'FOLK ACCOUSTIC'. WERE THE LISTENERS SUPRISED ?

Yes, surprised but very positive. That album showed MANEGARM from a different side and we really thought that the acoustic album was a great thing to do. We noticed that the fans/listeners thought so too.

 

TELL US ABOUT THE NEW ALBUM - 'NATTVASEN' ? IS THIS YOUR BEST ALBUM TODATE ?

I think 'Nattvasen' is our best and most 'work through' album so far. It follows the same music path as our two earlier albums but it is darker, more 'straight on' and we have also incorporated more classic heavy metal on this album. The response has been really good so far. We have received plenty of reviews, and the average score is around 8/10 ...

 

IS 'NATTVASEN' A CONCEPT ALBUM ? WERE ALL YOUR ALBUMS CONCEPTUAL AND CONNECTED IN ANY CERTAIN WAYS ?

Its not a 'real' concept album as our last album 'Vargstenen'. But 'Nattvasen' has its theme both lyric and music wise, that is the night and its night creatures ...

 

KRIS VERWINP HAS AGAIN BEEN TRUSTED TO DO THE COVER FOR 'NATTVASEN'. IT LOOKS LIKE A PERFECT COLLOBORATION SO FAR ...

Actually, Kris Verwimp has not done the cover art on 'Nattvasen', we have done it ourselves this time. He has made all of our covers until now, we thought we needed something different this time.

 

HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE YOUR LIVE SHOW ?

Rock n' fucking Roll !!! All hells break loose !!!

 

BY THE WAY, HOW WAS THE RELEASE PARTY WITH THE BANDS - SKYFOGGER AND THRIFING ?

The release party was a killer ! We're very satisficed with the whole evening. Great bands, great audiences and a really great night !

 

DO YOU KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THE EXTREME METAL SCENE HERE IN MALAYSIA ?

Nope .... jack shit ...

 

WHAT IN STORE FOR MANEGARM IN 2010 ?

Some great summer festivals and we're hoping for some touring ...

 

ITS GREAT HAVING YOU HERE ERIK, THANK YOU. SOME LAST WORDS PROBABLY ...

Hope to see you all some day, would be really great ! If you get the chance, buy the best album of the century - 'Nattvasen' !!!

(L-R) Jacob Hallegren (drum), Erik Grawsio (vocal/bass) & Markus Ande (guitar)

Official homepage : www.manegarmsweden.com

Facebook : https://web.facebook.com/Manegarmsweden/

Label : www.napalmrecords.com

 

YNGWIE J. MALMSTEEN - LIVE IN MALAYSIA : 29/09/2018 : WAWASAN HALL - MENARA PGRM : KUALA LUMPUR - MALAYSIA

It was said that the two main man made objects on earth that can been seen from space were the great wall of China and the great wall of Marshalls. Metaphorically, that was how it described the show of Yngwie J. Malmsteen. With a wall of 40 marshall amps built on stage, it's a decibel onslaught !

The press conference and meet & greet session (for VVIP ticket holders) took place a day earlier at Setor Gombak. It meant so much to all those that he inspired to pick up the guitar, learn, strum and shred. They all brought along their axe, and Malmsteen would gladly and personally signed it to the pure joy of all those that met him that day.

 

 

The following night, Menara PGRM welcomed all the fans coming from every corners of Malaysia, as well as from other neighbouring countries like Singapore, Indonesia etc as the show in Kuala Lumpur was the only Asian date.

 

 

The show relatively started on time, and as the promotional video montage of Malmsteen addressing his Malaysian fans was rolled out, the venue immediately turned to life. While the use of smoke effect on stage gave the extra thrill.

 

The opening track, cranking the night, was a medley of "Rising Force" from 'Odyssey' (1988) and "Repent" from 'Spellbound' (2002). Such a monumental anthem like "Rising Force", it should be celebrated and delivered in full. It came short, and stopped at midway after the second solo with improvised long shred. We were ready to sing along to Turner's closing verse - "the lightning strikes, cranking the night, i'm not the same anymore", unfortunately, it never came. It then continued with a shorter version of "Repent" with Malmsteen on vocal. Yes, he sang well !

 

It continued with another medley. The track "Into Valhalla" from 'Relentless' (2010) kept the choir back pieces that made it sounded big on stage. Then came "Baroque & Roll" from 'Attack !!' (2002) that has evolved into one amazing piece of work.

By that time, we nod to the fact that Yngwie J. Malmsteen was rightfully - the maestro, the myth, the master. He revolutionized the world of guitar playing, trend set and expanded the rock genre with the distinction of classical music. He was also dynamic, as every songs evolved naturally on stage, at his magic fingers. We should have taken seriously on what he had said during the press conference, that the same song would not be played the same way on stage. Yes maestro, lesson learnt !

 

Malmsteen was also significant in inspiring the Malay rock scene. Even the veteran local guitar hero - Man Kidal (Lefthanded) came to pay his respect. So did King Shah (Metalasia), Karl (Cromok) etc who were also there to witness his wizardry at work.

 

It was our first time experiencing his latest work - 'World On Fire' (2016), but the live medley was enough to ignite our interest to check the album in full. The tracks in question started with "Soldier", then continued with the slightly faster guitar harmony of "Top Down Foot Down" and ended with the melodic solo of "No Rest For The Wicked".

Just like Malmsteen had warned all of us earlier (the show will not only surprise the fans, but will also surprise himself), we also caught ourselves by surprise that night. As a listener, not a musician (far being a guitarist either), we bow in respect to the shred master and reforged our interest on him. We should have not marched out after "Odyssey', should we ?!

Right after the classical displays of "Paganini 4th" and "Adagio", the long awaited "Far Beyond The Sun" was finally bestowed to all. We wished the venue was a dance floor, and everybody would just dance to it. Citing the death metal band Langsuir - Ayuh Berdansa ! The progressive keyboard solo was a threat just like in the album.

Interesting to note that Malmsteen bravely took the vocal on "Now Your Ships Are Burned" though still incomparable to Soto. It kept the midpart break, and filled it up with several solo techniques before "Evil Eye" casted all who were there into stone.

 

Those who loved the album 'Trilogy' (1986) were glad to get "You Don't Remember, I'll Never Forget" as it was the last song for the set. The crowds threw a sing along during the chorus and Malmsteen gave a series of 'thank you' in returned, especially to those at the front row.

 

When Malmsteen and the band returned onstage for the encore, there stood a classical guitar at centre stage that prompted the crowds to shout out for "Blackstar". It started with a tune-up session (as what Malmsteen claimed) where his fingers were seen running free on the fretboard, and then, the famous string works of "Icarus' Dream Suite Op. 4" was heard to the big applause from the crowds. It continued with "Blackstar". Our jaw just dropped, and we don't think that our eyes blinked either. 

The album 'Marching Out' (1985) was given the honour to close the night with "I'll See The Light, Tonight". How we wished it was "I Am A Viking" that brought the night down.
 

Hat off to the drummer - Mark Ellis who was excellent throughout the night. He was also given a slot for drum solo, which he probably captured new Malaysian fan base that night. To us, the current line-ups of the band - Rising Force were just session musicians for live performance, but a top notch professional one. Nothing more, nothing less. 
  

Yet, it was a fretworks fiesta that night ! Kuala Lumpur was on fire ! Most of us were spellbound !

Thank you Panggung Asia / SoundValley Festival for giving all of us one memorable experience with Yngwie J. Malmsteen. It was also not easy to manage a perfectionist rockstar guitar hero who dealt only in absolute (sithlord ?!), so kudos to Lampu Neon and team for the job well done.

Official shirts :-

 

Setlists

 1) Rising Force / Repent (Odyssey / Spellbound)

 2) Into Valhalla / Baroque & Roll (Relentless / Attack !!)

 3) Medley - World On Fire
     a) Soldier
     b) Top Down Foot Down
     c) No Rest For The Wicked

 4) Like An Angel - For April (Facing The Animal)

 5) Badinere (Classical piece)

 6) Paganini 4th / Adagio (Classical piece)
 7) Far Beyond The Sun (Rising Force)
 8) Seventh Sign (Seventh Sign)

 9) Medley
    a) Overture (Relentless)
    b) From A Thousand Cuts (Spellbound)
    c) Arpeggios From Hell (Relentless)

10) World On Fire (World On Fire)

11) When Your Ships Are Burned (Rising Force)
12) Evil Eye (Rising Force)
13) Trilogy Suite Op. 5 (Trilogy)
14) Blue (Alchemy)
15) Fugue (Concerto Suite)

16) Drum Solo
17) You Don't Remember, I'll Never Forget (Trilogy)
Encore

18) Icarus' Dream Suite Op. 4 (Rising Force)
19) Blackstar (Rising Force)
20) I'll See The Light, Tonight (Marching Out)

 

YNGWIE J. MALMSTEEN'S RISING FORCE - A PERSPECTIVE

 

As a listener (not musician), we are not a definite fan of guitar hero. But back then, ages ago, it seemed that everybody knew the guitar wizard by the name of Yngwie J. Malmsteen. The alphabet - 'J' in the middle represented his middle name - 'Johan'. 

 

We were at primary school at that time, and a friend who was way cooler told us about J. Malmsteen (without 'Yngwie' as he was unable to pronounce it). We didn't even bother. As stupid as it seemed, we later thought that there was a 'correlation' between J. Malmsteen and J. Yantzen (Rusty Blade). We used the big word 'correlation' as a way to deviate your attention, so that you couldn't notice that we were out of sense. The people around told us that those with brain would love Yngwie J. Malmsteen, because not only he was technically way advance during his time, he also got soul. We grew to love the debut album of Rising Force (1984), appreciated it even more later. So, would that mean we finally managed to catch up with intellectuality ? 

 

Beside the charm that "Blackstar" cast to all listeners, the album also featured the mighty Jeff Scott Soto on vocal, though only in 2 tracks but he was brilliant, especially on the classic - "As Above So Below". The galloping drumming, the progressive keyboard play and the bass line were all outstanding. Many years later, whenever we heard Rabbani - "Itifada", we somehow thought about that chorus. While, the tracks "Evil Eye" and "Icarus' Dream Suite Op 4" were even magical as seemed like it's alive ! As we all knew, Yngwie J. Malmsteen grew to become legend !

 

 

Jeff Scott Soto was given more spaces in 'Marching Out' (1985), singing his charisma out on 8 tracks from the total of 11 tracks featured on the album. However, the beginning tracks ("I'll See The Light Tonight" and "Don't Let It End") though were still good numbers seemed to have lost that heavy punch, before "Disciples Of Hell" and "I Am A Viking' came back to the glory of the 1st album. One of the biggest myth surrounding Yngwie was that he could not play at slow pace, and would fumble if he did. The track "Overture 1383" however came out to testify that it was all false claim. Yet, if we are given the opportunity, we would like to sit with him and ask the question personally.

 

The 3rd album - 'Trilogy' (1986) came out with Mark Boals on vocal. Finally, we realised that those 2 tracks - "I'll See The Light Tonight" and "Don't Let It End" on the previous album 'Marching Out' was a hint of what was to come in the album 'Trilogy'. While, the 4th album - 'Odyssey' (1988) had Joe Lynn Turner singing, and the track "Rising Force" was impressive indeed. However, in search for other musical persona(s), we marched out to explore other musical territories. Unfortunately, never turned back.

Despite whatever had happened through out the years back then, let's all take it, that today starts the Yngwie's month, up until the day that we'll see him onstage here in Malaysia on the 29th September 2018.
 

Like us, if you are not a big fan of guitar hero and unable to keep track of the many albums he had released up until 'World On Fire' (2016), just sit back and relax. In remembrance of the first 2 albums of Rising Force, we believe, eventually, that will turn out to be the biggest reason for you to be there at Wawasan Hall.

Frankly, for us, it was ...

Get the ticket ! See you there !

 

https://proticket.com.my/yngwie-malmsteen-live-in-malaysia/

 

facebook : Official Yngwie Malmsteen

THE IRON MAIDENS : INTERVIEW - THE ALL FEMALE TRIBUTE BAND TO IRON MAIDEN



(L - R) Nikki, Linda, Kirsten, Wanda & Courtney



THE IRON MAIDENS is the world's only all female tribute band to IRON MAIDEN. Holy smoke ! That sounds big !

 

The band was put together back in 2001 and has went thru several line-up changes with only Linda McDonald (drum) and Wanda Ortiz (bass) remained from the earlier years. Courtney Cox (guitar) and Kirsten Rosenberg (vocal) later joined the band in 2009. While the last addition to the band was Nikki Stringfield (guitar) in 2015.

 

Prior to their arrival in Malaysia this coming December, the band has already reached South East Asia in 2012 where they hit Indonesia for 3 shows (Yogyakarta & Jakarta and Bali). Later in 2015, they made their stop in Singapore during Asia Tour 2015 which also saw the band played 3 shows in Japan (Osaka, Nagoya and Tokyo).

We are fortunate to be able to do this interview with the girls, a big thank you to SOUNDVALLEY FESTIVAL and THE IRON MAIDENS' management for making this possible.

These girls are damn talented, tough, and also funny ! Scream for them Malaysia !!!

Here is THE IRON MAIDENS !!! Up the Irons !!!

WELCOME 'THE IRON MAIDENS'. THANK YOU FOR WILLING TO DO THESE INTERVIEW. WHO WILL BE THE ONE ANSWERING THE QUESTIONS ?
Hello ! You got 4 of the 5 Maidens here answering questions - Kirsten Rosenberg (Bruce Chickinson), Linda McDonald (Nikki McBURRain), Wanda Ortiz (Steph Harris) and Nikki Stringfield (Davina Murray).
 
LET'S START WITH A FEW WORDS TO BEST DESCRIBE EACH ONE OF YOU PLEASE ...
Linda : I am the drummer as 'Nikki McBURRain'. I have a strong energy and can be misinterpreted as rude or stand off-ish but I am actually shy, sensitive yet guarded and very protective of our musical family. I am a founding member of the band.
 
Kirsten : I joined the band in 2009 as 'Bruce Chickinson'. I am the lead singer and 'class clown'. Still haven't learned to fly a jumbo jet plane yet ...
 
Wanda : I play bass as 'Steph Harris' in 'The Iron Maidens'. Most people tell me that they think I'm kind of a serious, quite person.
 
Nikki : My name is Nikki Stringfield and I play guitar as 'Davina Murray'.

WHAT ABOUT COURTNEY ...
Linda : I'm gonna introduce Courtney who isn't here on this interview. She is 'Adriana Smith' in the Maidens, and a silly and sarcastic prankster.
 
THE BAND IS CURRENTLY HAVING A SHORT BREAK BEFORE TOUR RECOMMENCES IN AUGUST. AS TO EASE THE TIGHT TOURING SCHEDULES, WHAT WILL YOU CHOOSE TO DO AT TIME LIKE THIS ?
Nikki : Right now I'm working on my original music and a few other projects as well as spending time with my animals at home.
 
Kirsten : I love spending time at home with my longtime boyfriend and our menagerie - a mini-horse, donkey, two dogs, four chickens and three cats - all rescued. Plus there are always chores and projects I try to complete around the house.
 
Wanda : I'll be busy playing bass in a symphony orchestra during that time.
 
Linda : One of my dogs had a major hip surgery during this down time, and my other dog that has only 3 legs is getting a custom doggy wheelchair made for him to help him get around. I've been a dog mommy and caretaker for my 2 puppies this whole time and love it, in addition to lots of family time and my brother getting married. \m/
 
HAS ANYONE OF YOU MANAGED TO CATCH IRON MAIDEN - 'LEGACY OF THE BEAST TOUR' SO FAR ?
Kirsten : I haven't and that makes me sad. I would love to see this tour but so far there's no US dates have been announced. I know Courtney will see Maiden on this tour during her travels and I'm so jealous.
 
Wanda : I haven't been able to see them this year yet. I'm hoping I will be able to catch them soon.
 
Linda : Not yet, I really hope to !
 
Nikki : Not yet, we really hope to ! We saw them in Las Vegas on 'The Book Of Souls Tour'.
 
MALAYSIA WILL FINALLY SEE 'THE IRON MAIDENS' LIVE ON STAGE. ARE YOU ALL EXCITED ?
Wanda : I'm totally excited to be going to Malaysia for the very first time !
 
Linda : I am thrilled to go to Malaysia ! I still can't believe we are going !
 
Nikki : We can't wait to be finally playing in Malaysia !

Kirsten : We are so excited to come to Malaysia ! I never dreamed it would happen. We feel extremely fortunate for this opportunity.
 

WHAT ARE THOSE THINGS YOU REALLY LOOK FORWARD WHEN PLAYING A NEW COUNTRY FOR THE FIRST TIME ? TAKE MALAYSIA FOR EXAMPLE ...
Wanda - The thing I look forward to the most is exploring new places and meeting new people.

Linda - I am always interested in seeing the local way of life, local foods and drinks, and being a dog nerd, I love seeing local dogs in the country (hehe). Of course you have to see some of the key tourist stuff too on the first visit. I'd really love to see some of the beautiful beaches  Malaysia is known, as well as the Petronas towers if we get the chance.

Nikki - I always love being able to see the culture, the country, and how much people love to rock ! Music really brings everyone together.

Kirsten - When touring, we rarely get much down time to actually see the places we play, which is very unfortunate. So I'm really hoping there will be some time off planned into the schedule. I'm always curious and eager to find the local vegan food, haha.

ANYTHING SPECIAL PLANNED FOR THE MALAYSIA SHOW ?
Nikki - We can't give away too much, but you can expect an awesome setlist packed with your favourite hits and some deep cuts ! Eddie usually makes an appearance as well and we make sure to give you a high energy, rocking show !

SUPRISES PERHAP ?
Kirsten - Hmmm ... you'll just have to wait and see ...

Linda - I'm not one to kiss and tell ! Wait for it Malaysia !!! LOL !

Wanda - You'll have to come and see. I'm sure there will be surprises.

THE BAND HAD ALREADY SET FOOT IN INDONESIA (2012) AND SINGAPORE (2015) EARLIER. HOW HAVE THE 'SOUTH EAST ASIA' FANS TREATED THE BAND ON STAGE ?
Linda - They were so fanatical about the music and happy to have us in their countries. I'm not sure if we were happier or if they were ! \m/ Indonesia and Singapore were both so very supportive of us paying tribute to Iron Maiden, and it was like a series of big parties with fellow Maiden fans celebrating this amazing music together. Such kind people there too !

Kirsten - Yes, the fans were very welcoming and an enthusiastic audience ! We are always grateful and appreciative for all the support we receive. But of course, that's because Iron Maiden has so many passionate fans around the world. Maiden fans are truly the best !

Wanda - Since we are a Maiden tribute band, people who come to our show already know they are going to hear songs they like, so the reaction was very positive. We got a very nice, big welcome from Maiden fans there.

Nikki - I wasn't there for the Indonesia show, but I was for Singapore. The fans were amazing and we felt right at home !

SPEAKING ABOUT INDONESIA, THE BAND DID AN ACCOUSTIC SET OF "WASTED YEARS" ON INDONESIA NATIONAL TELEVISION (RCTI) WHICH HAS ABOUT 191 MILLION VIEWERS. WHAT WILL BE THE BEST MOMENT YOU FIND TO APPRECIATE THAT DAY ?
Linda - That was a first time for us and so interesting ! It was odd playing with the audience in back of us though ! I am not sure how many of the audience members were actually Iron Maiden fans, but it was awesome anyway ! 191 million viewers ! Wow ! I'm so glad I didn't know that when we were performing. We were treated so graciously by everyone there. That was truly appreciated.

Wanda - We had a great time performing and working with RCTI that day. It's hard to pinpoint only one specific moment because the whole time was special. We feel very lucky to have had the experience which we will always remember.

Kirsten - That experience was unforgettable, although sitting in a TV studio you don't really get the feeling 191 million peoples are watching, haha !

SUPRISINGLY, 'THE IRON MAIDENS' HAD ALSO PERFORMED AT MILITARY BASECAMP IN KUWAIT AND IRAQ BACK IN 2008. OUT OF CURIOSITY, WHAT GOT INTO YOU GIRLS ...
Linda - We felt it was important to bring a little bit of 'home' to the people stationed in Iraq. Many of them had no choice to be there, but we did, and we would certainly be assholes for saying 'no' when asked to go and give back to our troops. My brother was out there at the time as well, as a civilian on base. It was also 4th of July when we went to Iraq, so that was even more reason to go and bring a piece of America back to those who could not be home with their families. I heard a lot of personal stories from the people at camps that were heart breaking and validated just how destructive war is, not just to the countries involved, but more importantly, the pain and damage it does to individuals who are there for things they don't understand or agree with.

 

Wanda - We were honoured to play shows for our troops there. They were very grateful that we came out and reminded them of home, and we were thrilled to be there for them.

 

Kirsten - The Kuwait and Iraq shows occurred before I joined the band, but I know that the girls wanted to give back and show their appreciation to the military personnel stationed in such uncertain and dangerous conditions.

 

SHARE SOME STORIES PLEASE ...

Linda - I remember being shot at when taking off in a Blackhawk, realising how disposable our lives were to the enemy. But the most valuable experience was being thanked by the soldiers for letting them forget where they were for that hour that we played ... One of the higher up ranking personnel was so in the moment when we played, he got up on stage and was playing air guitar on his rifle ! Oops, he got into a lot of trouble for that later ! LOL ! \m/

 

SO MILITARY PERSONNELS DO HEAD BANGED ?

Kirsten - Yes absolutely, there are a lot of metalheads in the armed force !

 

YOUR SETLISTS FEATURED RARITIES LIKE "DEJA VU", "ALEXANDER THE GREAT", "THE DUELIST" FOR EXAMPLE, WHICH IRON MAIDEN ITSELF HAD NOT EVEN PLAYED LIVE YET. THE FANS WILL APPRECIATE THAT FOR SURE ...

Wanda - We aim to please ...

 

Kirsten - For sure, Maiden fans always enjoy hearing the deeper album cuts and songs the wouldn't typically hear nowadays at an Iron Maiden concert. It's a pleasure for us to play them too.

 

Nikki - The deeper cuts are actually some of my favourites to play and the die hard Maiden fans love to hear them ! You've always got to play the big hits, but it's fun to see people's face when they hear the intro to a song they're not expecting.

 

Linda - They love hearing songs Maiden does not play live. It's awesome getting to play them too !

 

WHAT IS YOUR OPINION ON IRON MAIDEN DURING 'BLAZE BAYLEY' ERA ? THE BAND HAD NOT COVERED ANY FROM THE ALBUMS - 'X-FACTOR' AND 'VIRTUAL X' RIGHT ? WILL YOU CONSIDER DOING IT ?

Nikki - I love the Blaze album ! We've actually been playing "The Clansman" lately and that song is so fun !

 

Kirsten - We have started doing "The Clansman". It's a great song to perform in front of really big crowds.

 

Linda - For sure ! We've just been busy digging into some of our favourites because there are so many songs to choose from, but we have been playing "The Clansman" recently !

 

Wanda - I can't remember if we have done any Bayley era songs ever. I don't think we have and if we did, it would have been a very long time ago. I remember we played an older Maiden song with Michael Kenney siting in on keyboard, but I think it was "Blood Brother" which was not a Bayley era song. I have a friend who swears that we did "Sign Of The Cross" one time but I don't remember it. Anyway, every so often, we like to surprise the audience with a more obscure song for the really hardcore fans, so we might consider a Bayley song one day, you just never know ...

 

ANY CHANCES THAT THE BAND WILL PERFORM TRACKS FROM THE NEWER IRON MAIDEN ALBUMS - 'THE FINAL FRONTIER' AND 'THE BOOK OF SOULS' ?

Linda - When the band first started, we always tried to focus on the 'Live After Death' or earlier eras, but that was 17 years ago. There is so much more amazing materials out now to choose from than ever. We've touched in on a little of 'Dance Of Death', but I guess at this point, 'never say never' is probably the wisest answer to give.

 

Nikki - Anything is possible I guess ... but we don't really play anything from an album that Maiden is currently touring with.

 

Kirsten - So far "Dance of Death" is as modern as we get. Their catalog is so vast with so many great songs from which to choose, we never run out of material to cover. In time, we may add more recent songs. I'd love to do "Death or Glory".

 

Wanda - There is always a chance, but at this point of time, people have either just heard or can still hear the real band playing those songs live, so it makes more sense for us to play something different.

 

SINCE NIKKI WAS THE LAST PERSON TO JOIN THE BAND, THERE IS STILL NO ALBUM / VIDEO WITH HER ON IT YET. ANY PLAN TO ENTER THE STUDIO ANYTIME SOON ?

Nikki - We'll actually be going into the studio soon to record a new album with the current line-up. I can't wait !

 

Kirsten - The band has no CD recordings with my vocals either ! We will be recording a new CD with our current line-up very soon (I can't wait), so stay tuned ...

(editor - we heard you Kirsten ; smiling ...)

 

Linda - We are getting ready to go into the studio very soon to record with the current line-up ! By the time we get to Malaysia, it will hopefully have been recorded. We'll see if it is finished in time !

 

Wanda - Yes, we plan to record a new CD with our current line-up at the end of the year.

 

IS A 3RD GUITARIST NECESSARY FOR THE BAND ? IRON MAIDEN HAS 'THE 3 AMIGOS' THOUGH ...

Nikki - I think we're doing just fine with 2 guitarist ... our stages aren't quite big enough to always have an extra guitarist, haha.

 

Linda - Definitely not on a permanent basis.

 

Kirsten - We have actually done a show with 3 guitarist just as a special one-of-a-kind event. But we have no plans to add a third guitarist. It would be awfully crowded on a lot of the stage we play, haha.

 

Wanda - We haven't play many venues that are big enough for us to have 3 guitarist on stage ... but who knows, it may happen in the future.

 

IRON MAIDEN IS DEFINITELY ONE OF THE GREATEST HEAVY METAL BANDS THAT WALKED THE EARTH. IS IT DIFFICULT TO MAINTAIN THE REPUTATION AS THE WORLD'S ONLY ALL-FEMALE TRIBUTE BAND TO IRON MAIDEN ?

Kirsten - I agree with you about Iron Maiden (of course) ! All we can do is aim to be the best we can, deliver a great show, and strive to be as true to Maiden as possible. That is what people who come to our shows want to experience. We are just Maiden fans ourselves, playing the music that we love. But you do have to give it your all every show, the audience wants to know that you're feeling it, too.

 

Wanda - No, not really because, so far, at least as far as I know, there hasn't been another all-female Iron Maiden tribute band. By tribute band, I mean an act that tries to emulate Maiden's show and costumes in addition to playing their music. I have heard of some all-girl acts that only play the music but that's not the same.

 

Nikki - We were all huge Maiden fans before joining the band, so we're very gratefull to be doing this. We try our best to stay true to Maiden's music and give 110% at every show to do them justice !

 

Linda - We do our best not to butcher the masterpieces of Iron Maiden ! That would just be wrong ! Maiden is absolutely the best ! \m/ We are honoured to be able to play their songs for fellow fans around the world ! What a privilege !

 

THERE ARE A NUMBER OF ALL-FEMALE TRIBUTE BANDS GOIN' ON STRONG NOW LIKE '2HOT2HANDLE' (UFO TRIBUTE), 'HELL'S BELLES' (AC/DC TRIBUTE), PARADISE KITTY (G'N'R TRIBUTE) ETC ... HAVE YOU CHECKED THEM OUT ?

Kirsten - We are friends with Paradise Kitty and have shared the stage with many all-female tributes. One of my absolute favourites is Judas Priestess ! We are happy to support our metal sisters.

 

Nikki - We're friend with a lot of the other female tribute bands. I've actually jammed with Paradise Kitty before. It's so awesome to see all the female bands coming up and kicking ass !

 

Linda - It's a family within the tribute scene. and many of us girls are friends. We've known the Belles forever ! Hard working group of girls !

 

Wanda - Yes, we've seen and are friends with most of those bands.

 

ANY PARTICULAR BAND YOU MIGHT FIND INTERESTING TO SEE ALL-FEMALE PAYING TRIBUTE ?

Kirsten - I'd love to see a female Rush or Queensryche tribute ...

 

Nikki - I'd like to see an all-female Megadeth tribute ... that could be cool.

 

Linda - A female tribute to Pantera would be awesome ! Cowgirls From Hell was around but I'm not sure if they are active any more or not. Hmmm ... maybe it's time to put one of those together ! LOL !

 

Wanda - I like the heavier stuff so I really like Judas Priestess, an all-female tribute to Judas Priest. You should definitely check them out !

 

WHAT WILL BE THE BIGGEST ACHIEVEMENT FOR 'THE IRON MAIDENS' ?

Wanda - Steve Harris came to our show in Mexico City and let us know that he liked it ! We were also the first all-female metal band to play in Venezuela in front of 40,000 people ! Hopefully, there will be more to look forward to.

 

Linda - I'd say longevity is a huge achievement. We are going on 17 years now and going to more new places constantly ! This is due to the massive amount of Iron Maiden fans everywhere who just can't get enough of Maiden, so they turn to us as a surrogate fix until the can go see the real deal again, haha ! We are also the first tribute band to put out a full length tribute CD !

 

Kirsten - I'd say coming to Malaysia certainly ranks among the biggest achievements !

 

Nikki - I'm not sure what the biggest achievement would be, and I'm sure it would be different for everyone individually. I think getting to travel and play to fans all around the world is a pretty big achievement itself !

 

UNTIL WE SEE YOU IN DECEMBER, WHAT ABOUT SOME LAST WORDS TO ALL THE MALAYSIAN FANS WAITING FOR THE SHOW ...

Nikki - Malaysia, we hope you're ready to rock !!! See you soon and up the irons !

 

Kirsten - Malaysia, Edwina is coming for you !!! Get ready to have your faces melted ! Up the irons !

 

Linda - See you soon Malaysia !!! Up the irons and don't forget to visit us online at our website or on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram ... you know the deal ! We're look forward to coming to your beautiful country and shredding some Maiden for you and just can not wait !

 

Wanda - Thanks for your support and we can't wait to see you in December !!!

So, are you ready Malaysia ?!! These girls mean serious business, they will bring you all to the slaughter !!!

Get the ticket now, be quick or be dead !!! 

https://www.ticketpro.com.my/concert/rock/2331212-The-Iron-Maidens-Live-In-Malaysia.html

The Iron Maidens
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