In 2000, the Epic Aussie Metal band 'RAVENS'HEAD' was born &
their hometown of Perth would be turned on its musical ear as the then lineup of members Gary Minderman on Lead Guitars/Synth Guitars
Chris Chalk on Electric & Acoustic Guitars, Rob Johnson on Percussion & Flute, & Paul Grando on Bass, had already been formed with one missing element, the singer, the add read "if you sound like Bruce Dickinson, we want you!" & to the bands astonishment, a female replied with a 'Big Voice', the band nick naming her "Iron Lungs", but her real name was Rachael & the rest as they say is history!
RAVENS'HEAD has done a number of high profile gigs in Perth, WA, their hometown, including the "Bindoon Rock festival" an Icon in Australian rock history & "Maiden Mania" a tribute show to Iron Maiden.
The release of the single 'SANDS OF TIME' 2001 & full length cd 'FROM THE DARKNESS' into 2001/2002 had spurred some interesting comments & interest in the band & some rave reviews, including TPRS.com calling 'FROM THE DARKNESS' it's top choice for a new comer Metal Act from Australia. The follow up cd 'ARCHITECTUS' has taken some time, but is anxiously being awaited by critics & fans alike....the band says it should be officially out mid 2009!
TPRS.com Spotlight Artist
Ravens'head - From The Darkness
Back in late November, an unassuming little package arrived at TPRS.com from Australia. Upon opening the package, I saw a rather dark, ominous cover with a bird on it titled Ravens'head. Little did I know how this CDr demo release would instantly garner my full attention.
Voted TPRS.com's top CD of 2001, Ravens'head - From The Darkness delivers a 1983 era styled release that comes as a welcome relief from the all the Helloween 7 Keys copycats that sound like they are playing the exact same melodic speed metal song album after album. "From The Darkness" is devoid of all the new millenium cliches many of the younger power metal bands are lured into these days.
"Martyr" is one of the most immediately stunning songs I have ever heard. I was instantly blown away by the track as soon as I put it in my car stereo. The guitars of Gary and Chalky, Rachael's voice and the overall aura demand your undivided attention. The mystical "Arcana" weaves an intricate tale and musically surrounds you with a shroud of pure aggression.
The ballad "Did You Ever" is very sweet sounding composition with an accompanying flute provided by Robbie J. It is at these times when the melodic power of the CD subsides, the mellower vibe of recalls Annie Hanslam of 70's progressive rock legends Renaissance. This is most evident on the track "Tears In The Rain".
"Do You Believe" possesses a metallic gallop and a message of self determination in terms of ones destiny. Closing track "How Many Times" is a fast paced, relentless power metal romp which is a great way to conclude a killer release.
Throughout "From The Darkness", Ravens'head keeps the attitude very metal. There is such a diversity on the CD that fans of early Savatage, Iron Maiden will appreciate the older stylings of the songs, while fans of extremely obscure bands like Malisha and Avalanche will feel like they have been rewarded with a another precious rarity.
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What a nice pleasure to find you at My Space at last!!! We have been wondering what you've been up to lately. Please fill us in! We would love to hear from you!!!!
Metal greets from The Netherlands,
Toine & Rita van Poorten, Metal Maidens 'zine www.metalmaidens.com
thanks for the request! Your song is a killer tune indeed! I really need to listen to more of your stuff!How can I get your first album? Shine On! Dimitris
