GREENLEAF (SE)

In theory, forming a rock group seems like a no brain'er. Get a group of musicians who have a shared love of certain bands and who can get along with each other for at least an hour.Hell, sometimes they don’t even have to be musicians (especially if you’re looking at the Top 40 charts). But in reality, it’s a lot tougher, as the essential ingredient? What makes the group truly unique and memorable – is something that can’t be defined, learned, or bought. Call it talent, magic, or whatever you want, but Greenleaf’s got it.

A super group of the underground rock scene, the band was formed sometime in late 1999/early 2000 by guitarist Tommi Holappa (Dozer), drummer Daniel Liden (Demon Cleaner and the drummer on DOZER’s “Through the Eyes of Heathens,” and currently in Vaka), and engineer/ bassist Bengt Bäcke.

Featuring a revolving cast of fellow musicians who share a love of heavy fuzz rock, including Fredrik Nordin (Dozer), and Peder Bergstrand (Lowrider), Greenleaf has consistently defined what rock ‘n’ roll was, is, and should be. You put 2001′s “Revolution Rock”, 2003′s “Secret Alphabets” and 2007′s “Agents Of Ahriman” on and you’re going to have a hard time taking them off. The band cooks, because they’ve got that special ingredient. It’s time to rejoice, because Greenleaf is back with “Nest Of Vipers.”

Like their past releases, “Vipers” is a righteous kick in the ass and a testament to the almighty riff. This time, Tommi and Bengt are joined by Oskar Cedermalm (Truckfighters) on vocals, Olle Mårthans (Dozer) on drums, Johan Rockner (Dozer) on guitar, and a handful of guest appearances. This new lineup keeps Greenleaf moving forward without losing track of what made them great in the first place. Take note – this is what rock bands should sound like. Make way for the “Nest of Vipers.”

DOUBLESTONE (DK) 

After three years of live performances and three EP’s on several formats, Doublestone recently released their debut album “Wingmakers” on LP on Levitation Records. With Tony Reed (Saint Vitus producer) flying in from the states to turn the knobs on the reel-to-reel recorder, and mixing and mastering the live recordings, the dry and raw sound the band sought for, has really come through on this 10 track release.

In the time Doublestone have excisted, they have been touring and playing with great acts, such as Orange Goblin, Endless Boogie, Sabbath Assembly, Sienna Root, Spiders, Toner Low, and 3AM.

DEMON HEAD (DK)

Demon Head is heavy rock, aiming to fuse the sinister atmosphere of 70′s dark heavy metal with twin guitar lead harmonies. Members have been or are active in other bands such as Scavenger Brats, I, Mountain, Øresund Space Collective, Alucarda and Reefer.

Ride the Wilderness with us…