FOR THE LOVE OF METAL
We asked all of the contributing writers here at Hellbound.ca to submit their Top 10 albums of 2011, which we then compiled into a master list, assigning points to all their choices (10 points for #1, down to 1 point for #10). After tabulating the results, we have created Hellbound.ca’s Top 20 Albums of 2011. For part two of our continuing series, here is albums #15 through 11…
“If we in the audience are puppets whose strings are manipulated by artists, then Townsend is both puppeteer and lead puppet, a living caricature of the genre who takes such obvious joy in poking fun at both the scene and his own place within it. His performances are both sincere and satirical, and that is what makes them unique.”
Jonathan Smith reviews the December 10th performance of Devin Townsend in Toronto. Live photos by Adam Wills.
“I think that with these two recent records, Deconstruction and Ghost – specifically with Deconstruction in my head, I can probably write this sort of Andrew Lloyd Webber-esque sort of absurdity that, if I was in a genre which afforded me the opportunity to really go for it on the level that they’re able to do with The Lion King or The Phantom of the Opera, it would be, in my opinion, just this completely free piece of work that has no creative limits and no boundaries, and that includes everything from like the most vulgar to the most beautiful.”
Laura Wiebe in conversation with the one and only Devin Townsend.
An eclectic line up was the order of the night in Toronto at the Wreck Room. Prog metal legends Cynic with 3, Scale the Summit and a recently added The Ocean were to play this showcase of musical talent.
Chaos Of Forms is stunningly complex, completely vicious and, above all else, a hugely confident release.
“There’s numerous ways that metal shows are often described: epic; intense; but the best word to describe this show? Fun. Devin is refreshingly positive and enthusiastic as he jokes, pokes fun and chats with the crowd throughout the night, all the while performing with a combination of smiles and silly faces. And when you add Anneke’s glowing charm to the mix, you can’t help but have a great time.”
Adam Wills recaps a performance abroad, seeing Devin Townsend in the Netherlands with Anneke van Giersbergen.
Today’s staff interview is with Vancouver based writer Rob Hughes
Who else could be number thirteen in our staff interviews but Natalie Zed?
Today’s staff interview is with Vancouver’s Kyle Harcott.
Adam Wills previews this weekend’s Hellfest festival that is happening in France. He will be attending and covering it for Hellbound.