We knew it was coming but that doesn’t make it easier: one of Australia’s most forceful musical voices, Malcolm Young, has been silenced. While Angus Young has always been the more flamboyant Young brother, we all know Malcolm was the band’s secret weapon, the steadying force and one hell of a powerful rhythm guitarist. Malcolm never went for flash: most of his playing was built around the chords that guitarists tend to learn in their first six months or so. But Malcolm played with such reliable steadiness, such a powerful note attack and so much balls that his sound is unmistakable. We’ll miss you Mal.
The mighty Sepultura are heading back to Australia, this time in support of their frankly fucking brilliant album Machine Messiah. And supporting them on this tour is …holy hell, it’s Death Angel. This has gotta be one of the most thrashtastic tours to hit Australia in ages. They play 170 Russell on Tuesday May 15, with ticket presale at on Wednesday November 22 and public onsale date Friday November 24, via metropolistouring.com.
California melodic death metal force Once Human will visit Australia for the first time in early 2018 in support of their album and they aren’t screwin’ around: six new dates have just been added, bringing it to a total of 12 shows including two in Melbourne (The Evelyn on Friday March 9 and The Tote on Saturday March 10). All shows feature supports In Death, Rise of Avernus and Hollow World, plus additional local supports to be announced. There are even two shows in often gig-deprived Tasmania. Led by former Machine Head/Soulfly guitarist and renowned producer Logan Mader, Once Human possesses a powerful, dynamic and brutal attack that will leave you in awe after witnessing their sheer brutality. The band’s secret weapon is powerhouse frontwoman, Sydney’s own Lauren Hart, who has a growl that could make the earth shatter.
Melbourne’s Palace of the King have just released ‘It’s Been A Long Time Coming’, and funnily enough it was the last track recorded for their new album. It has a definite AC/DC feel with hints of G’n’R and Poison as well, and the lads have dedicated it to the memory of Malcolm Young.
