Based in Abu Dhabi, UAE, Coat of Arms blends influences from a wide variety of genres, to create a distinct sound easily in the modern metal spectrum.

The band is comprised of:

• Rayan Bailouni (Vocals/Guitars)
• Sam (Guitars)
• Liam (Bass)
• Turky (Drums)

Currently promoting their 2nd full length album titled "Inheritance" the follow up to their 2009's "State of Mind." Coat of Arms are quickly gaining recognition around the local scene for their blend of Nu Metal, Hardcore, Punk and even some Screamo. The band is influenced by such acts like Opeth, Lamb of God, KoRn, Slipknot, A Day to Remember, Alexisonfire, and the list goes on.

"Split between love songs, political songs, self-analytical songs, and heartache songs. A very common theme is being in a gray area with a lot of issues." Comments front man Rayan Bailouni on the band's lyrical themes.

"Whether it be a relationship, life, or self esteem. I try to reflect a lot about that region of your mood where nothing is certain. I just find that place to be the most interesting when it comes to people cuz it’s the only time when you really think about things."

Continues Rayan:

"I think the best way to describe both the lyrical theme and the style of music is by putting the two together I would say. A lot of the music sounds very emotional (not emo, but very dramatic in the aesthetical sense). Like a lot of the music is very uplifting and “big” if that makes sense. I wouldn’t say it’s a very aggressive album where we thrash out and go bonkers on speed and sweeping.

I would say it has more of that enclosed feeling you get when you listen to some bands. Its one of those styles where the music is paced, controlled, but heavy. Its like a person who’s ridiculously worked up about something that instead of screaming out and going ape shit, he slowly grunts out words and cautions everyone. "

On the band's new album Inheritance:

"The idea behind the name being that all those lyrical themes and ideas are a constant factor in human life. Moves from generation to generation, that things like those I mentioned are almost instinct, almost genetic because we all go through those moments."

Listening to "Open The Dams" you immediately sense the modern metal vibe, with the band's tight musicianship and strong structures, the band does not comprise from the second the song hits, till the last note, filled with intensity and melody the band create guttural bridges to accompany big choruses.

Earlier this year the band released in collaboration with fellow UAE based band Vint Edge a tribute to Michael Jackson by covering his hit single "Dirty Diana" managing to leave their own modern touch on the song.



Coat of Arms are a solid band to look out for, there is no doubt that the guys are on the forefront of the modern metal scene in the Middle East and certainly worth your listening time and support.

The band have already released a video for "Open The Dams" from their 2010 studio album "Inheritance." (available after the jump, along with 4 songs from their new album)

Become a fan on Facebook

Now you can order all your Nervecell merchandising needs straight from the band's official online store. Pimp your self up with one of the band's kvlt shirts, or stay tr00 by picking up your copy of the band's LifeForce Records debut "Preaching Venom."

Click here To Visit "Nervecell's Official Online Store"

Nervecell are currently devouring planet earth location after location, promoting their latest aswell as their Lifeforce Records debut "Preaching Venom".

The band will be going on the road again in March, for the "Legacy of Blood European Tour 2010" which will be headlined by New York's toughest mother fuckers SUFFOCATION, one of the pioneers in the death metal genre, and who simply burst out brutalness. Also on the bill will be Annotations Of An Autopsy, Fleshgod Apocalypse and Burning The Masses.

The band issued the following:

"We are very proud to announce that NERVECELL is now confirmed to tour Europe / UK with US Death Metal legends SUFFOCATION! The tour entitled Legacy of Blood European Tour 2010 will be taking place in March 2010. Also appearing on this tour are Annotations of An Autopsy (UK), Fleshgod Apocalypse (Italy) and Burning The Masses (US).

It's a great honor for us to tour with Suffocation, as they have been a major musical influence on every member of Nervecell. We grew up listening to Suffocation and to go on the road with them is just mind-blowing for us! The band is proud to be the first from the Middle East to tour alongside one of the fore fathers of the death metal scene. Nervecell have recently completed 2 successful European tours in June/July & October 2009 - European Festival Tour 2009 and Preaching Venom European Tour 2009 and we cannot wait to return to perform for the killer European audiences early next year with Suffocation."

That's not all the band will also join metalcore heavy weights As I Lay Dying for their show in Colombo, Sri Lanka at the Sugathadasa Stadium. This will mark Nervecell's first performance on Sri Lankan territory,

Comments the band:

"We had played with AILD at Dubai Desert Rock Festival 2008 and it’s really great to be sharing the stage with them once again, only this time in a whole new country! This will be Nervecell’s first ever live show in Sri Lanka and the band is really looking forward to see some crazy Sri Lankan metal fans come down and go crazy!!!"

Tour dates after the jump!

• 12.03.10 Holland, Utrecht @ Tivoli
• 13.03.10 Germany, Karlsruhe @ Substage
• 14.03.10 Germany, Hamburg @ Markthalle
• 15.03.10 Denmark, Aarhus @ Voxhall
• 16.03.10 Germany, Berlin @ Columbia Club
• 17.03.10 Poland, Warsaw @ Klub Progresja
• 18.03.10 Slovakia, Bratislava @ Randal
• 19.03.10 Czech Rep, Prague @ Chmelnice
• 20.03.10 Germany, Leipzig @ Conne Island
• 21.03.10 Austria, Graz @ Seifenfabrik
• 22.03.10 Austria, Wien @ Arena
• 23.03.10 Slovenia, Ljubljana @ Kino Siska
• 24.03.10 Germany, München @ Feierwerk
• 25.03.10 Italy, Arcene @ Soundtrack Club
• 26.03.10 Italy, Rome @ Blackout Club
• 27.03.10 Italy, Pinarella di Cervia @ Rock Planet
• 28.03.10 Switzerland, Erstfeld @ Transilvania Live Club
• 29.03.10 France, Paris @ Glazart
• 30.03.10 UK, London @ Underworld
• 31.03.10 Ireland, Dublin @ Whelans
• 01.04.10 UK, Leeds @ Rios
• 02.04.10 UK, Birmingham @ O2 Academy 2
• 03.04.10 Germany, Essen @ Turock, Death Feast Open Air Warm Up
• 04.04.10 Belgium, Antwerpen @ Trix

Nervecell Links:
Myspace
Facebook
Twitter
YouTube

The Flaming Trees is a new rock band based in Dubai, UAE the band has promising song structures, but need to work on their vocals. Here's some more info about the band taken from their official myspace:

The band was formed when Elias Sabella (guitar, vocals) and Samir Nassif (bass) wanted to make a rock band, but not just a regular slam your guitar band, but a mix of classic rock (such as good ol’ AC/DC) and modern pop-punk (Blink 182). With only two members, they seriously were in need of some more strength in numbers, and therefore recruited friend and pianist Samer El Hage. With only three members in the band, they realized they were in desperate need of a drummer and a second rhythm guitarist. With the help of a friend (Mike), they found their drummer Siina Hawker (who is in another band called Shrimp Cocktail) who was almost immediately convinced to join the band. Finally Elias asked a classmate Olek Zyborski to join in the position of a rhythm guitarist, and he also happens to be a great solo shredder, as influenced by Metallica. (The only letdown was that he, at the time, had no experience with any other bands or performing in front of an audience. That has changed now though). Now with a complete band, they successfully completed their first gig at the ‘Trampoline’ back in February. Btw dont ask them how they came up with the name cause it was random and they might get them put in jail.

The Flaming Trees links:

Myspace
Facebook Fan Page
Facebook Group

Cesspool Distro is a website set up to provide mail order distribution of music CDs by local bands and artists based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

You can purchase albums through Paypal, to find out more info on available albums and how to order visit the site's "About" page.

The site currently offers:

Gandhi's Cookbook/Public Refuse - Under Construction



Ampulance Compilation: Volume 3


Click here to check out some more albums the site offers!

Dubai's awesome deathly thrashers A Shot Of Adrenaline decided to film a hilarious video for their song "Time To Reign" the video is so Metal you need to watch it multiple times to understand all the metalness going on !

And the way RD hits the first note, is too EPIC for your soul to bare ...

Now watch the video, to understand the full awesomeness that is A Shot Of Adrenaline !

Head over to the band's Myspace to check out some of their latest songs, and dont forget to become a fan on Facebook !

Alright so this year's Desert Rock, came by with some awesome bands (OPETH, Arch Enemy, Chimaira, August Burns Red, Nervecell, winners of "United We Rock" Scarab and Hatred)

Thanks to the tremendous work the organizers of CSM have put in the event all these past years, they decided to give the metal heads of the region a night to remember with a line up full of metality for DDR 09 ... (Google each band that performed at this year's DDR and you will find out they each brought their own special brand of brutality to the stage)

A while back I had "a word" with Mark Mcguire about the growing scene in Dubai, Phride and the pit stops on the way to make the scene grow ... so we had another talk about DDR, CSM and the scene today and how it was back in the days of the first Desert Rock...Slash, KSE smoking dohka (which is the best thing to smoke in Emirates), about the rumors floating around and alot more.


Here's how it went:

TMR: Whats your fondest memory of Desert Rock?

Mark: Desert Rock to me is something i treat as the quintessential international music festival and
i believe it deserves that status. Ive been to every DDRF apart from this years and apart from the fantastic atmosphere, the connection with friends and the general festival experience i think personally my favourite experiences were working with my girlfriend, taking my drummer backstage to meet Killswitch Engage (nice guys) and talking to Robin Flynn from Machine Head and having no idea who he was until i was accosted with 'dude do you know who the fuck that was?' It made me realize even more how these are normal people like you and me and they react better to being treated that way. Walking around the stage Iron Maiden had just came off was a buzz as well.



TMR: Who where some of your favorite bands to work with?

Mark: Some were fantastic and other were difficult even given the small job of keeping them on schedule and taking them on and off stage i had. To this day i still think As I Lay Dying top the lot. I had sent them a message through myspace a few weeks before, they replied and when we met i was taken into the dressing room by the guitarist Nick to the tune of 'hey guys this is our new friend Mark McGuire'. Fantastic bunch of lads. The majority of KSE were great too. I actually loaned my pipe and dohka to the bassist for the night to give him a taste of the emirates. The next day Adam D returned it too me and said he had one hit and passed out which i think is something i wont forget. Velvet Revolver worked us big style but they were very generous and made us feel very welcome. Slash owes us money haha. Other big rushes included being in Muse's dressing room and meeting Korn.



TMR: What are some of the problems the scene is facing today?

Mark: The scene is making a real effort but the buzz is dying down. Its obvious the bands are trying very hard and making an impact at every gig they play but we need to get back into the place where were hounding the press and basically demanding our interviews and our articles, which i can seeing happening again. It may not have the biggest impact internationally but its something to add to your press pack. And having been on tour as a member of Asking Alexandria any press pack is a good press pack. To bands hoping to tour - flaunt the name Dubai because its a big attention point when touring the UK.



TMR: How was setting up the first Desert Rock, did it flow smoothly back then, or where there alot of speed bumps on the way to start it off?

Mark: I wasn’t working the first DDRF but a good friend did drum for JD and opened for The Rasmus and it was a pinnacle which noted changes were coming in the scene. It was a metaphorical opening of the gates for the bands that were struggling at the time and its only grown since then.



TMR: There have been rumours about DDR 09 being the last in the festivals run, if that where to happen, do you think one of the reasons would be a decline in the scenes growth ?

Mark: I can only say these are just rumours right now but last DDRF some bands experienced a lot of negativity from fans within the emirates. This was shocking and uncalled for and lets hope they grow up because if the current progress in introducing niche market music in the UAE is being compromised, expect all your extreme music to disappear from virgin very quickly.



TMR: What do you think some of the main problems facing CSM every year putting on festivals like DDR ?

Mark: DDRF is a huge event and the head team in CSM are a small one. They are dedicated, professional and intelligent individuals who basically give up their personal lives to make each DDRF event more memorable than the next. Apart from the obvious problems from the ministry and the strict Emirati laws CSM has faced criticism from a lot of people who just dont seem to realize how lucky they are to be witnessing their favourite bands in concert in the UAE, but im sure were all sick of hearing that haha.



TMR: Apart from CSM who do you think contributed to the scene on a considerable level ?

Mark: There are a lot of names that come to mind. Obviously Joe Akkawi, founder and owner of www.phride.com has built a miniature empire based around a passion he has and which is shared by many around him. The scene wouldn't be what it is without Joe and for that we thank him.

Other people i think deserve special mentions would be -

The CSM team who have done such a fantastic and passionate job bringing the worlds music to the country . Thank you Holly, Lara, Mathile, Fab and everyone else we love you!

Nervecell and Julianna Down, who despite the criticism they may get will always have a place in our hearts for demonstrating a sense of professionalism and love for a scene which we all hope will continue to blow up internationally.

The sponsors and investors who make DDRF possible

All the moderators on www.phride.com including Fizz, Basel, Joe, Peter and all the rest for keeping us all ‘ in line’ when were ‘online’...

The old crowd including bands like Mannikind, The Jolly Rodgers, Chaotic Order, Epoch, Death Of Eighty, Minus The Blindfold and all the others who fought to play and express themselves...

I would also like to mention the people hosting gigs in their backyards etc such as the springs and the recent trampoline gig where there was even a stage built. That was a fantastic show of dedication on the organizers part and it was well appreciated...



TMR: What do you think of the shows being organized nowadays (Metal Asylum for example)?

Mark: I think these shows are a fantastic step towards injecting the scene with some life and events such as blacklist are also encouraging. Music is inspiration and experiencing this music with friends in a social environment is even more productive.



TMR: Thank you Mark for doing this once again, would you like to add anything ?

Mark: All i would add is that there are a lot of fantastic bands out there in the scene and we all need to support them because despite our limits within the music scene we have a real advantage being from a city like Dubai. We have a lot to offer and if were dedicated then we will prevail...
I handed a recording contract to Junkyard Groove on my second stint as Shamal MC and things have only grown from there.

Have faith i guess... because we already have the talent...


'We would all also like to say a big goodbye to Dayaan who will be moving off to college. As a hugely active member in the scene he had contributed his charm and charisma and always managed to make us smile. We wish him good luck for the future and hope he comes back to us soon, Mark'


I'd like to thank Mark for his time.

Don't forget to check out Of Brutality And Grace on Myspace and Facebook.

Public Refuse is a Dubai based Hardcore Punk band, the band features band members from other Dubai based bands such as Amongst Skyscrapers (Mychal Martinez, Drums), and Ghandi's Cookbook (Adarsh Sekhar, Bass/Vocals).

Formed in 2007 under the name The Mugshots as a cover band, covering songs for Rancid and Choking Victim, the band is now releasing original tracks under their new moniker Public Refuse.

They have 2 "in your face" punk songs up on their Myspace. "Cut To Commercial" and "Hypocrites" which showcases the band's raw punk sound and that Dubai has alot to offer in the punk scene !

To get to know the band a bit better, I asked George Hughes the band's frontman about their sound, the band's lyrical theme, today's punk scene in Dubai, their upcoming releases, and alot more.
Heres how it went:



TMR: Hows everything coming along with your upcoming EP?

George: Well, we currently have 2 songs finished and ready for the EP, with 3 more in the making. we'll be recording with our local crust punk Chris Ryan at Cesspool Studio's, and we're scheduled for late November after Behold the Locus. I personally can't wait to record, it's amazing to have something to call your own as a band, we recorded some live demo's a month or so ago, and we we're extremely proud of how they turned out. now we're incredibly anxious to hear properly produced and recorded tracks.


TMR: Can you describe your sound?

George: We call ourselves a Hardcore Punk band, but it's a still a slightly narrow term for our music, as far as punk goes. yes we're highly influenced by hardcore punk, which is clear in our recordings so far, but each band member brings their own influences to the table, for example, Adarsh, our classically trained guitarist. Likes to integrate different genre's and sounds into our music, from ska to post-hardcore Fugazi type tunes. I like to bring the old American Hardcore sound, for example Minor threat, Bad Brains, Black Flag, the pioneers for Hardcore Punk. Mychal, Our drummer, is heavily influenced by metalcore, ska, and more contemporary punk, so he likes to mix it up on occasion on the drum lines. And lasty Bruno, Our bassist, likes to just do what he's told, and play his bass lines, he is a truly gifted guitarist.

so to describe our sound in a few lines would be, Old school hardcore punk with contemporary punk and ska twists.


TMR: What lyrical themes do your songs center around ?

George: All band members contribute to the lyric writing process. Mainly we like to write about politics and society, although i find punk bands, especially at our age, who have never truly LIVED in "the system" only as far as under they're parents roofs, a bit pretentious when they seem to write passionately about how "the system" has fucked them over etc.
so our lyrics tend to centre around local issues and things that we have experienced ourselves as individuals.


TMR: Any Future Shows?

George: Our gigs tend to be organized quite randomly and last minute, which isn't anything new to be said about the Dubai scene. The only gig that we have in our books right now, is the DDE skate championships, at the Dubai Festival City skate park on November 21st. Our Myspace www.myspace.com/publicrefu

se, is always up to date with upcoming gigs, so if you are interested in seeing us, check there for an opportunity.


TMR: What do you think of the Punk scene in Dubai, is it growing ?

George: With the Dubai Scene being predominantly Metal, The Punk aspect of it is very small, for example you can count the number of punk bands in Dubai on one hand. but over the years the punk bands that have existed have put on some incredibly energetic shows and continue to do so i.e. Bloody Mary and Gandhi's Cookbook, to name a couple. We hope to be able to put on the same kind of show that they are famous for.

I think the Dubai scene is growing, especially with the recent success of Gandhi's Cookbook, more and more kids are listening to punk rock and we are hoping that they are starting to form their own bands and integrate themselves into the scene. it would be a real shame if Punk in Dubai doesn't take off, it is one of the most powerful and and emotionally driven genre's that music has to offer.


TMR: Would You Like To Add Anything?

George: there's not much else to say, except we appreciate any support from the scene in helping make Punk Rock a dominant force in Dubai music. also shameless self advertising is never a bad thing, so check us out if you're interested in hearing some homegrown punk from Dubai, www.myspace.com/publicrefuse.


I'd like to thank George for taking the time to answer my questions !

Dont forget to check out the band's Myspace for the latest updates and to get a taste of the band's punkSKA attitude !

Dubai based death/thrash veterans Nervecell recently finished filming their debut video for "Demean" coming from their latest effort "Preaching Venom".

Nervecell's Preaching Venom is getting great reviews from all over the world....

The band recently finished filming their debut video for "Demean" which should be out before new year's.

In other Nervecell related news, James Khazaal the band's Frontman/Bassit has signed an endorsement deal with Spector basses (USA)

here's a statement about the deal by James:

"The reason why I choose Spector over any other is due to its precise live and studio sound. Both atmospheres require no compromise with sound quality and so far Spector provides that all. Apart from the output capabilities, this monster is surprisingly dynamic. It looks good and feels good!"

"check out the following companies Nervecell currently endorse. They are the best in the market today!

Spector Basses www.spectorbass.com
ENGL Amplifiers www.engl-amps.com
Elixir Strings www.elixirstrings.com
In Tune Guitar Picks www.intunegp.com"


Until we all get to watch the video that will surely be filled with a load of ass kickary ! check outsome photos from the video shoot below.






Source

Dubai has the fastest growing metal scene in the region, with DDR being the flagship event of Rock/Metal music.

Its a multicultural city with people from all over the world living together, and getting along having a good time.

But was the Metal scene in Dubai always such a powerful growing force ?
Bands like Nervecell always mentioned that it wasnt easy for them to breakthrough the scene and onto the international masses, but now with events such as DDR and BACK2SCHOOL and gigs going on all the time around the city, with more Metalheads uniting for the same cause then ever before.
whats next ? only time will tell.


To find out more about the scene, I asked Mark McGuire (Avarice, OBAG) about the early days, whats the next positive step to take, PHRIDE and more.
Heres how it went:

TMR: Can you tell me about your musical background, and the bands your involved with ?

Mark: Ive only recently came back into the scene after going on tour with a band i gigged with in the old days called Asking Alexandria (for my fucking money back) but back then i played in around 16 bands just filling in on any instrument that was needed. My main band was Avarice which im very proud of. We did really well in BOTB 05 winning most of the awards. I got Best Musician, Best Guitarist and best performer, i was psyched he he...


TMR: Hows the Music scene in Dubai nowadays ?

Mark: We had a bit of a slump after 2005 when everyone left for university, bands went to hell, everything was disorganised and the new people coming in didnt appreciate all the trouble we went into bringing the scene about. And this has been going on for years before i came to this country god knows what crap the people before my generation went through... No one new heres been arrested for putting on a gig but there really coming around now...


TMR: Dance is the dominant force in the scene, whats the second most popular genre ?

Mark: Would have to be metal definitely...


TMR: When you guys first got into the scene how was it like ?

Mark: Difficult, very difficult, we were constantly shut down. There were a lot of boundaries that dont really exist as much today and CSM have really given us a boost, the scene we know today wouldnt exist without the people back in the day or a company like CSM...


TMR: Was it easy to play gigs ?

Mark: As i said, police shut us down, pulled us out banned venues it was difficult but i guess the fact it was difficult made it so much more exhilarating when we did manage to put something on... I know me and my members came of that stage so high and pumped full of adrenaline it was great...


TMR: Is it easy to play gigs nowadays ?

Mark: A lot easier than it was yes but its still expensive and hard to organize so two thumbs up to the people organizing skatepark gigs etc...


TMR: Phride has become an essential site for all Metal heads in Dubai and UAE, when did you guys start joining the forum ?

Mark: I joined in January 2004 and yes Phride has been a savior for all of us, its not just an info page, its where we all keep in touch and get to know each other, its a community where we can chat and then actually meet each other at gigs a lot of people i know such as dayaan, Mutant (and i recently met Major Rasputin) were met through phride really...


TMR: What do you think is the next positive step to expand the scene ?

Mark: To stay positive, to appreciate what we have and realize that if we let it out of our grasp theres going to be big changes ahead, bad ones...


TMR: What would you personally like to add to the scene ?

Mark: I dont know really, i want to get Avarice back on track but apart from that this scene is so connected and generally high spirited, people may bitch at each other on phride but when they meet up its 'hey man hows it goin nice to meet you' so i guess we just need to keep building on what is now... I would also like to add more Dayaan to the scene... i think that would be positive... : )


TMR: Anything else you'd like to say to the rest of the Metal community across the world ?

Mark: Were all here whether you like it or not, so dont pretend you dont notice us...


I'd like to thank Mark for taking the time to send me feedback, be sure to check out his future work with some of the local scenes most promising bands.


Check out Mark on the official Of Brutality and Grace Facebook page


Here's an interesting video to watch (taken from Shamal - Battle For DDR)

A Shot Of Adrenaline is a Death/Thrash metal band that was formed as a side project by Ratish (drums) who was previously in Dark Sanity.

After Dark Sanity split up, Ratish along with old friends Leinate, Salman, RD and Aaron wrote together the song "Tribute To Heavy Metal" which was the first song they composed together, the song's lyrical theme is centred around the influnece of Heavy Metal on people, the lyrics where written by the band's vocalist RD.

The band later on added keyboardist Rana to the fold, who's a friend of Ratish, which he knew could bring an extra layer to the band's sound.

They will be performing at the DDE Championships, taking place on November 21st.

To get to know the band a little better, I asked them some questions about their musical background, how did they get together, who's their metal idol (The Double Bass ? thats awesome !) and more.
Heres how it went:


TMR: Can you tell me about your musical background?

RD: NONE

Salman: I started listening to metal about 8 years ago, i was into some other crap before when one day my neighbor came over and told me to download some Metallica, and that was it i actually liked the heaviness of 'where ever i may roam' after getting used to Metallica, my cousin back home introduced me to iron maiden and Judas priest and that’s when i got curious and wanted to know how a person could play guitars really fast. I got my first guitar about 5 years back and have been playing since then. i still lack the theoretical aspects of the guitar as im self taught, but i can still pick up some stuff by ear. I’ve been in three bands and this is my fourth, my first band 'Tombstone' was with RD back in college where we played a battle of the bands event, next was 'Chronic' a 4 piece band consisting of my school friends and played another battle with them, the third band was the recent one 'R.O.T' with RD and Leinate where we played at the annihilation gig alongside OBAG, Perversion and Sun king.

Rana: No musical talent at all in my family unfortunately haha, I’ve been playing piano for 7 years, started violin and bass about a year and a half ago and drumming for about 2. Been in a few bands, performed several times.

Ratish: Well I think I was like 12 when my brother and me first walked into my cousins room when we went to U.S and he was bashing away on the drums. At that point of time me and my brother both wanted to start drumming, Soon we got our own drum set and started learning what we could and we slowly developed on different skills while listening to bands like Lamb of god, Slipknot, Dream theater, Cannibal Corpse and all the bands with crazy drumming in them! I was self taught, I’ve been playing for about 4 years now and going to keep playing!

Leinate: Well , I have a pretty normal musical background . Started off with Hip-hop then eventually got into Rock/Alternative. It just all took place from there as I got into heavier, bone crushing music.

Aaron: I’ve been listening to Metal for the past 4 years now and I’ve only been playing bass for one year. That doesn’t excuse my bass talent however because anything can be learnt with some sort of interest towards it. The metal that I listen to and love is in basic words, technical death metal. Anything that is hard and extremely fast makes me satisfied so I like pursuing that sort of style itself. Been through 4 bands since then which comprise of Seraph, Dark Sanity, Discord (present) and of course, A Shot of Adrenaline.


TMR: Describe your band's sound?

RD: KICKASS

Salman: A shot of adrenaline, the name itself is what defines our sound. Its brutal drumming with thrashy death metal riffs topped up with RDs signature growls and pig sqeals with a little taste of epic keyboards and insane bass lines.

Rana: Umm quite new to the scene and have a lot of improving to do but it’s kind of like Death metal..Thrash-ish?

Ratish: Well honestly I’m confused to what we really sound like we like to keep our stuff fresh and new so we have a Death metal/Thrash sound along with some Death core I think K.

Leinate: Your not so average Cookie Monster vocals with plenty of thrashy riffage.

Aaron: Somewhere on the lines of deathcore/thrash metal.


TMR: How did you guys get together?

RD: ALCHOHOL

Salman: Well I knew RD from college, and was in my first band with him, through him I met Leinate and Ratish and through Ratish I was introduced to Aaron and Rana.

Rana: Ratish can answer that! :)

Ratish: Well I used to be in a band with Dark Sanity and we recently broke up since the vocalist and guitarist left to Canada but the bassist was still here so I decided to collaborate my old band Dark Sanity with R.O.T Salman, RD and Leinate’s previous band. Me and Leinate have been friends for long and have been jamming on and off so we knew our shit and really got along! Salman was playing as rhythm and he fit in as well since Leinate and him had been playing together. All that was left was vocals and bass this was pretty simple since RD was available and he was perfect and same goes for Aaron. I felt keyboards would work in this band so I called Rana and asked her if she would be interested and she said yes. After trying out and listening to our stuff she liked it and fit in perfect as a result A.S.O.A was formed! J (RD is right as well)

Leinate: Once again , Alcohol .

Aaron: I believe I met them at a recent gig that happened which was hosted by Dark Sanity. I already knew Ratish because we were in the same band and later I met Salman, RD and Co.


TMR: Which bands are you currently listening to?

RD: Anything with a good riff

Salman: TRIVIUM!! (haha not really, it’s an inside joke) I’ve been listening to a lot of Lamb of God, Kreator, Slayer, Arch enemy and Testament. I’ve developed a new taste for more death metal bands like Cannibal Corpse after covering 'Stripped, Raped & Strangled, and I also like melodic death metal bandslike 'Kalmah' and 'Children of Bodom'.

Rana: Nile, Necrophagist, Obituary, Slayer, Hypocrisy, Behemoth, OLD Cryptopsy, Kataklysm, Dimmu and the Misfits have always been one of my favorites J

Ratish: Lamb of God, Blood bath, Blood stained child, Wintersun, Arch Enemy, Amon Amarth, All shall perish, Devil driver, Necrophagist, Kalmah, Opeth, Nile, Cryptopsy and it goes on but Lamb of God is my absolute favorite they are my idols and I’m probably their biggest fan in Dubai!

Leinate: I have the weirdest taste in music. I’d be blasting out some Deicide one minute and John Mayer the other.

Aaron: Necrophagist, Death, Decapitated, Dying Fetus, Cannibal Corpse, All Shall Perish, Cryptopsy (like Rana mentioned, OLD!), The Faceless, Born of Osiris, The Black Dahlia Murder, (any other tech death/death core band).


TMR: Who's your Metal Idol?

RD: THE DOUBLE BASS

Salman: The late and great Dimebag Darrel R.I.P

Rana: Daniel Erlandsson of Arch Enemy and Flo Mounier of Cryptopsy !

Ratish: Chris Adler from Lamb of God I worship him along with him I also look up to Joey Jordison, Derek Roddy, Daniel Erlandsson, Flo Mounier and many others.

Leinate: Zakk Fucking Wylde .

Aaron: Mohammed Suicmez and John Campbell…


TMR: When are you planning on releasing more material?

RD: Very soon

Salman: Soon, we just have the bass line left for our second song which will probably be up on myspace in a couple of days.

Rana: As soon as we get our asses around to it. Always room for improvement!

Ratish: Well it’s never hard to write new material it’s always the recording which is hard to do due to the fact that we don’t own any professional recording equipment so we do the best we can. I try to mix and release the best quality I can with what I have. Like our song on myspace (Back Against The Wall) now you can hear it’s not the best of quality that’s because it was all done with one small mic! But our new song has a much better sound and the quality I feel has really improved I still have to mix it a little and the bass needs to be added but the new song will really kill so that should be up soon!

Leinate: Just hand over the guitar baby!

Aaron: While I’m writing this, our new song is being uploaded!


TMR: Would you like to add anything?

RD: BEER BEER!!! \m/

Salman: Nothing in particular, just keep it brutal! \m/

Rana: Horns up! \m/

Ratish: Watch out for our new song IT ‘S GOING TO SURPRISE YOU! Horns up \m/

Leinate: Yuup , Airbourne are awesome.

Aaron: Stay true to your roots! (Only kidding) I mean No! Check out our new song Time to Reign \m/


I'd like to thank the guys from A Shot Of Adernaline for answering my questions.

If your in Dubai and want to have a good headbang this coming November make sure to stop by the DDE Championship show on the 21st where the guys will be performing and will surely impress and brutalize your mind with their heavy rockage !

Check out the band's Myspace and listen to their latest song "Time To Reign"

Of Brutality and Grace are a Heavy Metal group based in Dubai, they are a thrash filled riffing attack with pounding drums, power charged bass lines and soaring vocals to overlay it all !

The band started out as an idea by guitarists Lucas and Fouad, when they started sharing Guitar Pro files and fixing bugs in each other’s creations. It was pretty obvious that they had something going on when their combined efforts seemed to make so much more sense
Lucas got in contact with Josh, then drummer of “Decoy Death Trap”, and asked if he would be interested in forming a little project. Josh agreed, but nothing more than the exchange of Guitar Pro files was going on with The Band.

The band had everything they would need, a killer vocalist/front man, an amazing composer and one of the scene’s more popular drummer’s and a whole arsenal of mind-blowing ideas. The only thing stopping this steam-roller from running was the fact that they lacked a bassist. They tried a couple of bassists and even a keyboardist at some point, but none of them seemed to really blend in or tap into what they had going…But then came Ali, who seemed to blend in absolutely perfectly.

Soon after the band went into the studio with local producer Milton Kyvernitis to record 3 tracks to show the scene what they are capable of. The response they got was quite surprising for a new band. The music they play is so different from most bands from the scene, it just seemed to catch people’s attention. With their music all sorted out, and the fans craving for more, the band decided to look for shows.

The band just recently performed at the BACK2SCHOOL Festival , with headliners Alien Ant Farm, fellow Dubai based headbangers Nervecell and Sun King.

Got the chance to ask the guys a few questions about the band's new frontman Mark, what are they currently listening to, about the new Metallica and more to get to know them a little better
heres how it went:

AB: Hows everything with your new Frontman Mark McGuire ?

Munki: Pretty alright actually, we're trying to sort out a few bugs, but then again thats how it usually is when someone new gets in. He's trying really hard, so props to him!

Fouad: We work as a unit, like any serious band should, Mark is doing his best at the moment to get in tune with our habits and mentality. We hope things will fall into place soon enough. :)

Luke: As with ANY lineup change, the process has been a little rocky. What's made it rockier is that I've now moved to study in England so I can't be there to make sure things are alright but I trust my brothers and I trust Mark, that's why I asked him to fill in the vocalist slot because I wanted to focus on the guitar.

Mark: its been a little rocky i mean these guys are just unbelievable musicians, and they jam very differently to me. i usually just say lay back learn what you can and if you screw up onstage just act like you know what your doing and no one will notice... OBAG is military precision and everything is done to perfection. and also its kinda hard gettin up to jam all the time i got a full time job and other stuff in my life so yeah but i love it there great...

Iron Ali: Mark has a lot of potential and is putting A LOT of hard work into this band and we all notice and appreciate it. Apparently he still isnt performing as good as he can, i guess thats because he has been really ill and has a lot of other things going on in his life, and so he still needs some training but otherwise he's a good guy and a very talented person.


AB: Whats going on lately with Of Brutality and Grace ?

Fouad: Practicing, writing, and practicing some more. The road to fame and fortune is hard and trippy, but when you practice more than you would like to, it seems to get easier.


Luke: We're just burning to play alongisde Alien Ant Farm and Nervecell and Sunking. It's going to be abso-effing-lutely killer. We're also trying to figure out how we're going to get things done in the short span of time that we have to get them done in. But we're hopeful that they'll get done and we're determined to bleed, sweat and cry to get it done if need be.

Iron Ali: A lot of band practice and preparation, for this gig, and to get tighter as a band in general. We are also trying to get some recording done for The United We Rock thingy and hopefully we will get in. Yeah, we are really hyped up about the back to school gig and are excited and happy that we will be sharing the stage with AAF, Nervecell, Sunking and the bands that will be competing at the gig.


AB: Which bands are you currently listening to ?

Munki: I've been listening to All That Remains' new album and Slipknot's new stuff...Dont even get me started on slipknot...i'm probably the biggest fan in this country/region or whatever....but yeah. I've hardly been listening to much really. Lately i've been into more mellow stuff...Xavier Rudd and stuff...that shit's pretty cool. I've started playing the didgeridoo so that dude's been quite and inspiration as a didge player....but what a talented musician he is...wow.....anyway i wont stop...NEXT QUESTION....

Fouad: In Flames, Arch Enemy and Children of Bodom

Luke: Aside from my usual mix I'm actually really enjoying John Mayer right now. I've been doing the metal for such a while now that I needed a little something to give my ears a break hahahaha. "Heavier Things" in particular. At the same time I'm trying to get more stuff in. Need to vary my horizons a little so I've started listening to a little More Vai and Satch. Alien Ant Farm also. I've always been a huge fan of theirs, I've got all their albums and their DVD but I've been listening to them more because I'm going to play on the same stage as them which is cool.

Iron Ali: Ive been listening to Edguy, Hammerfall, Hibria, Helloween, GammaRay and am trying to check out other Power/Heavy Metal bands that have a similar old school sound. I really dont know much about these bands but am really checking them out and want to get a hold of all their albums. But yeah, im a big fan of traditional Heavy Metal, NWOBHM, Hair Metal, Thrash metal and Power bands that sound a lot like the genres I just mentioned.


AB: Did you like the new Metallica ?

Munki: I'm not the hugest Metallica fan, so i really dont have much to comment...except Jame's vocals are SO CLEAN. Its like PITCH PERFECT....its almost like its some synthetic shit...like autotune or something...I'VE HEARD he didn't use anything like that and did multiple takes to get it perfect...but yeah :P...I miss the old shit where you can hear them fuck up you know...makes it a bit more real. I dont know man....yeah thats what i think of the album. No Comment haha.

Fouad: It's definately not another St. Anger, its not the old Metallica, but its not bad at all.

Luke: Load/Reload meets ...And Justice For All. Best they could have possibly done after the shambles that was St. Anger.

Mark: havent heard it didnt bother st anger was a crime against music.

Iron Ali: Im a big Metallica fan but still havent heard the entire album. But, from what i heard of it, it sounds really good. Lucas put it in the perfect way. Load/Reload meets Their thrashier side (And Justice for all).


AB: If you got the chance to play one song live with your idol who would it be ?

Munki: Slipknot would be my idol to play with...either SIC or EYELESS or SURFACING or some of their old less mainstream tunes would be my fave...SO MUCH ENERGY....I love that....that would be my pick...

Fouad: Downfall - Children of Bodom

Luke: Either Soilwork- As We Speak or Testament- The Preacher

Iron Ali: I would play either Wrath Child, Moon Child, The Trooper or Aces High with Iron Maiden. Actually i cant decide on what song id like to play with Iron Maiden but yeah, Iron Maiden is definately one of my most favourite bands and Steve Harris is my favourite bassist in the world. My bass playing, if not entirely, is heavily influenced by Steve Harris and playing a song with live with Iron Maiden would be more than just a dream come true for me.


I'd like to thank the guys from Of Brutality and Grace for their time,

Make sure to check out the band on their future shows if you missed BACK2SCHOOL,

Of Brutality and Grace on:
Myspace
Facebook

Mortalz Of Eternity is a very impressive young band that plays alternative metal
the band consists of a group of young teenagers with alot of potential

The band consists of:

Bruce (guitarist) : 14
Abaiz (drums) : 14
Brandon (bass) : 13
Andres (Rythm guitar) : 15

Had a little chit chat with Bruce the band's lead guitarist to get to know the guys a little bit more
heres how it went:


AB: Can you tell me about you musical background ?

Bruce: Ive only really been starting guitar this year but im jst pretty much like ma dad started learning a few songs i like.


AB: How did you guys get together ?

Bruce: simple. Me n ma bestie ABAIZ (drummer) started off with music and i got him into metal so that was pretty sweet.Anyways we were in maths class and just felt like jamming TOGETHER! so thats how we started. My bro plays the bass just lyk ma dad, Kaz, the singer, a knew he had a gr8 voice from year 6 play oliver twist. We tried him out for a song and passed.last of all, Andres, 2nd guitar, just metal lyk us. i knew he culd play so thats how we got together :D.


AB: Whos your biggest idol ?

Bruce: Biggest Idol, well, 2 top fav bands, Bullet for my valentine and Iron Maiden. But biggest music idol for me would probably be, either bruce dickinson or Matt tuck!

AB: Did you like Bullet For My Valentine's latest release, "Scream Aim Fire"?

Bruce:I luvd bfmvs new album, i luv all of em, i got all their albums. My fav album from them is, The Poison. No question asked.


AB: Any other cover tracks you plan on releasing ?

Bruce: Its simple with the cover tracks.If our mates or anyone else requests a song. We would play it, so feel free to ask us to play any more songs!


AB: Would you like to say anything for the readers out there ?

Bruce: To the readers out there: Just practice, listen to the music u love, and get a band together !



So to anyone who wants more from Mortalz Of Eternity till they release their first full length sometime around Mid-November send em your request for another awesome cover song !

Check out the guys on:
Bandcage

Good Luck to Bruce and the rest of the guys !

In this new series,
I'll be focusing on promising bands from the local scene in Dubai,
The scene in Dubai has some very talented musicians in a wide variety of genres and sub genres.

First up is Gandhi's Cookbook a Punk/Ska band with a DIY attitude !
They recently finished a tour in India, and posted two new songs up on their Myspace called "Egotistical Game" and "War" to get to know the band a little bit better, I asked Chris Ryan (Drums) a few questions about their sound, the tour they recently had and about any upcoming plans...
Heres how it went:

Horns: You guys just came back from a tour in India, how was it ?

Chris: The tour was really great. We played a handful of shows in Chennai, Bangalore and Bombay and it was nice to be able to play to a different audience and interesting to play somewhere like India where there is not very much of an established fan base of punk fans.


Horns: Can you tell us about your sound and about your motto ?

Chris: We play punk/ska music with usually socio-political lyrics, political in the sense of opinions etc. The name Gandhi's Cookbook is an analogy for the mindset of mankind, and our intrinsic values which make us wish to be spoon fed. The name Gandhi is used as a representation of stature and something to be respected; mankind aspires to this level of respect but instead of putting in the work and sacrifice that Gandhi did, man would rather have a Cookbook to tell them exactly what to do that they can read at their own leisure.


Horns: Which bands are you currently listening to ?

Chris: I am currently listening to alot of Rudimentary Peni, Faraquet and Godspeed You! Black Emperor. Punk/Ska wise, I've been listening to some really great active US bands called Canon Law, Stupid Stupid Henchmen and Agents of Change. Check them out on myspace!

Horns: What are your upcoming plans ?

Chris: We just finished recording some new songs so i'm not sure what's planned in the future, but as far as the immediate future goes, there's a 1 in 3 chance we'll be opening for a reunited lineup of "The Wailers" when they play in Dubai as part of Desert Rhythm Festival in late October.

Wish you guys the best of luck !

Check out Gandhi's Cookbook on:

Myspace

Purevolume

Facebook