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General => General Music Discussion => Topic started by: Mister Gold on February 07, 2017, 05:30:23 PM

Title: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: Mister Gold on February 07, 2017, 05:30:23 PM
It's been awhile since I've done much of any regular posting around here, but I happened to stumble upon a brand new band this afternoon that immediately struck a chord with me: Witherfall, featuring one of White Wizzard's many ex-singers Joseph Michael on vocals and keyboards, Iced Earth's new lead guitarist Jake Dreyer, Adam Sagan of Circle II Circle and Into Eternity fame on drums and bassist Anthony Crawford from Virgil Donati's band.

And you know what? This band kicks a LOT of ass. Quite frankly, their debut album Nocturnes and Requiems just set an incredibly high bar for my personal Album of the Year for 2017.

As the thread title suggests, Witherfall's sound feels like a blend of bands like Savatage, Nevermore and Pink Floyd. There's a lot of other influences like Awaken the Guardian/No Exit-era Fates Warning, King Diamond and Opeth, but my mind typically drifts towards the first three bands. This is some very dark and brooding progressive metal.

While the whole band is fantastic, Dreyer is especially impressive in how he's able to blend Criss Oliva/Jeff Loomis/Yngwie Malmsteen school of neoclassical shredding with more melodious and atmosphere driven David Gilmour-esque guitar playing as well. I'm excited to see what sort of solos he'll contribute to the next Iced Earth album and hope that Jon Schaffer decides to let Dreyer do some co-writing for future albums with the band if he sticks around longterm. This guy is someone to watch moving forward.

Joseph Michael is also great too. I've seen people comparing him to the likes of Rob Halford, Zak Stevens and Tim Aymar, but personally Michael reminds me mostly of Midnight from Crimson Glory. However, I think it's also worth highlighting his keyboard contributions to the band too- it adds a lot to the band's more atmospheric Floydian moments.

Tragically the drummer, Adam Sagan, passed away back in December from a bout with cancer before the album's release. I'm hoping the rest of the band find a suitable successor to Sagan and move forward, because this debut is one of the best I've heard from a band in quite a long time.

The album officially releases this Friday, but the band just uploaded the whole thing on YouTube for free streaming with Loudwire.

Album Stream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MM1VAXrF4Rk
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: TAC on February 07, 2017, 05:40:22 PM
Damn!
 :metal


Sounds awesome Mr. G.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: mikeyd23 on February 08, 2017, 07:30:18 AM
Listening now, sounds pretty cool!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Art on February 08, 2017, 08:27:35 AM
It's the second review i read praising this band. I will check the record friday!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on February 08, 2017, 08:48:14 AM
Damn!
 :metal


Sounds awesome Mr. G.
Listening now, sounds pretty cool!
It's the second review i read praising this band. I will check the record friday!

I'm kind of amazed that I found this album when I did. Usually I come across bands that have been around for awhile or something. Not used to finding a band that's on the verge of releasing their debut album at all! :lol

I think one of the key things that I really love about this band is how they merge so many different influences together into one sound. The key sound is basically "Savatage meets Nevermore meets King Diamond," but there's a lot more to it. There's something very Scandinavian about Witherfall's sound and mood, if that makes any sense. They're a clean vocals prog metal band that has a bit of a black metal and death metal vibe ringing underneath it all.

You can hear shades of bands like Opeth and Death bubbling throughout all the gothic neoclassical prog- and then the band changes gears to go into Floydian territory (i.e. there's parts on Sacrifice that sound like something out of "Sheep" from the Animals album). And it's all pretty catchy too, which I really dig. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Samsara on February 08, 2017, 09:10:52 AM
MG -- as we discussed yesterday, I agree -- it's a really good record for sure. I dig it. They really ride a great line between great prog metal and getting too pompous. I like it.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Grappler on February 08, 2017, 10:50:59 AM
Scanning through the album stream and I'm definitely impressed.  Wasn't initially sold on the singer until I heard him sing some higher notes.   :metal

I'll have to remember this once I have some money to buy music again, since household repairs are controlling my budget this month.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on February 09, 2017, 09:23:51 AM
MG -- as we discussed yesterday, I agree -- it's a really good record for sure. I dig it. They really ride a great line between great prog metal and getting too pompous. I like it.

Yeah, it's some quality material to be sure. I think your point about them striking that balance of very proggy while also not being too bombastic or pompous is where that Savatage influence really comes from with Witherfall. Their music certainly has a flair for the theatrical that was a huge part of Savatage's sound- as well as King Diamond imo.

Scanning through the album stream and I'm definitely impressed.  Wasn't initially sold on the singer until I heard him sing some higher notes.   :metal

I'll have to remember this once I have some money to buy music again, since household repairs are controlling my budget this month.

Speaking of the singer, Joseph Michael, apparently he's a distant relative of Ronnie James Dio! He says he only met him once and didn't really know him, but it's a cool connection just the same. :metal But yeah, to your main point, I think Michael's high notes are fantastic! He does a great job of striking the balance between soft and aggressive vocal melodies imo.

I pre-ordered the album on iTunes shortly after I heard the album for the first time... and I plan on getting the CD and maybe a t-shirt and/or poster later down the road when I can afford it. I've kinda fallen in love with this album. :rollin
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Scorpion on February 23, 2017, 09:27:04 AM
I really dig this album. Thanks for the recommendation! I find that Jake Dreyer overshreds sometimes, but for the most part it's exactly what the song needs. I love the Spanish guitar touches in What We Are Dying For and the calmer bits on some of the songs are gorgeous.

On a tangentially related, they kind of remind me of Dark Empire. Their last album is one of my favourite prog metal albums and I'd recommend it to anybody who doesn't immediately turn off if there are some growls (very sparingly, and completely absent on some tracks). Example song: From Refuge to Ruin (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tz9w-289OeI).
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: TAC on February 24, 2017, 07:24:18 AM
First 2017 album purchased this year.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Samsara on February 24, 2017, 08:44:54 AM
First 2017 album purchased this year.

 :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Grappler on February 24, 2017, 07:32:33 PM
Also purchased! 

Not my first 2017 album purchase though (that goes to the new Kreator), but I am in the mood to discover bands that are new, or new to me.  Looking forward to listening to this disc in full sometime.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: TAC on February 24, 2017, 07:35:02 PM
I checked out the new Kreator. Not crazy about the vocals. I'll have to settle for the new Overkill I guess.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Grappler on February 24, 2017, 09:12:20 PM
I checked out the new Kreator. Not crazy about the vocals. I'll have to settle for the new Overkill I guess.

The pre-release songs from Overkill didn't do much for me, which is nuts, since their last 3 records have been absolutely slamming. 

Ran through the Witherfall disc once tonight.  It's actually pretty cool, though I had the volume lower to not wake up my daughter in the other room, since she sleeps on the other side of the wall from my computer.  I'll need some time to listen to the quieter parts, but I dug what I heard!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: bl5150 on February 28, 2017, 07:05:44 AM
I'm undecided on this after one listen - will persist.    Plenty of cool vocal and guitar work - what I can't decide yet is whether it's just a complex bunch of progressive passages next to each other (the sort of prog I dislike) or whether there are definite songs that have an identity/structure that I can relate to.   I can't remember much after one listen.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on March 14, 2017, 02:16:22 PM
I really dig this album. Thanks for the recommendation! I find that Jake Dreyer overshreds sometimes, but for the most part it's exactly what the song needs. I love the Spanish guitar touches in What We Are Dying For and the calmer bits on some of the songs are gorgeous.

On a tangentially related, they kind of remind me of Dark Empire. Their last album is one of my favourite prog metal albums and I'd recommend it to anybody who doesn't immediately turn off if there are some growls (very sparingly, and completely absent on some tracks). Example song: From Refuge to Ruin (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tz9w-289OeI).

Speaking of What We Are Dying For, Gear Gods just uploaded a video of Jake playing the whole song from start-to-finish.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pALdy-MVwM

Gotta say, his Jackson King V looks gorgeous... :hefdaddy :hat
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on March 31, 2017, 06:47:01 PM
Lots of Classical influence in this music. Here is an interview translated for German Magazine ROCKHARD

https://witherfall.com/latest-news/blog/blog_categories/20958
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 02, 2017, 06:49:32 AM
Lots of Classical influence in this music. Here is an interview translated for German Magazine ROCKHARD

https://witherfall.com/latest-news/blog/blog_categories/20958

That's a pretty great interview with Joseph and Jake! :metal

The band is actually doing a poll right now to vote on which song off the album they'll make their first music video around. I voted for Nobody Sleeps Here personally (aside from being my favorite track off the album, I think it's the one that best compliments the music video format lyrically), but last I checked, End of Time was leading the poll.

https://witherfall.com/home/blog/witherfall-music-video-song-poll
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: 0u81234 on May 08, 2017, 03:57:34 AM
I voted for "End of Time". This is due to the fact that I did not enjoy the lyric video and want to see the full thing done in all parts 1-3. Nobody would be amazing as well to see as a real well shot music video.

have you guys seen the video of "What We are Dying For" with Gergo Borali on drums: https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1416066115122999&id=196199683776321

Don't know if he is the new guy they have in place of the drummer (Adam) who died... everything  I read from Witherfall including interviews is very elusive but this guy is killer, he is very Mike Portnoy esque. From his bio it says he played with Al di Meola. I hope they tour with the lineup of Anthony. (You can't hear his bass but check out the videos of him playing these songs in the studio.) Jake and Joseph of course and Gergo that would be an amazing show.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 08, 2017, 07:55:19 AM
I voted for "End of Time". This is due to the fact that I did not enjoy the lyric video and want to see the full thing done in all parts 1-3. Nobody would be amazing as well to see as a real well shot music video.

have you guys seen the video of "What We are Dying For" with Gergo Borali on drums: https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1416066115122999&id=196199683776321

Don't know if he is the new guy they have in place of the drummer (Adam) who died... everything  I read from Witherfall including interviews is very elusive but this guy is killer, he is very Mike Portnoy esque. From his bio it says he played with Al di Meola. I hope they tour with the lineup of Anthony. (You can't hear his bass but check out the videos of him playing these songs in the studio.) Jake and Joseph of course and Gergo that would be an amazing show.

I did see the video with Gergo playing "What We Are Dying For"! Been watching it a lot in my free time, actually. I loved Adam Sagan's drumming on the album, but I kinda think Gergo's rendition was a bit more impressive. There some subtle differences with his version that I really dug, while also keeping true to the spirit of Sagan's original work.

From the sound of things, Anthony Crawford is definitely the band's bassist officially at this point. No clue yet if Gergo is the band's new drummer, but I really hope he is.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Samsara on May 08, 2017, 08:15:55 AM
Love this record. I still have the advance, need to go actually pick it up. Last time I looked on Amazon, it wasn't available as a CD. Will re-check.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 08, 2017, 08:32:37 AM
Love this record. I still have the advance, need to go actually pick it up. Last time I looked on Amazon, it wasn't available as a CD. Will re-check.

I'm pretty sure you have to order the CD on Witherfall's own website, since they aren't attached to any record label and instead released their album independently. Not entirely sure though.

I've only gotten the album on iTunes so far because of that, but I'm planning on buying a CD copy and a T-shirt sometime soon too.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Grappler on May 08, 2017, 08:38:10 AM
I listen to the album at least once a week.  It's nice to have a band with a sound reminiscent of Nevermore that isn't named Sanctuary. 
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Samsara on May 08, 2017, 08:51:47 AM
I just picked up the disc on cdbaby.com.

I also listen to it weekly. Great stuff.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 08, 2017, 09:55:39 AM
Yeah, I've been listening to it a lot too. Can't really help but be a bit addicted to the band at this point. Their sound is sorta like my dream vision of the sort of band I'd want to hear. :blush

I do hope we get official news on whoever their new drummer is gonna be sometime soon. I'd love for it to be Gergo Borlai, since he did such a great job with his rendition of "What We Are Dying For" and apparently hit it off really well with the rest of the band when he met them.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Samsara on May 08, 2017, 10:12:34 AM
Yeah, I've been listening to it a lot too. Can't really help but be a bit addicted to the band at this point. Their sound is sorta like my dream vision of the sort of band I'd want to hear. :blush

I do hope we get official news on whoever their new drummer is gonna be sometime soon. I'd love for it to be Gergo Borlai, since he did such a great job with his rendition of "What We Are Dying For" and apparently hit it off really well with the rest of the band when he met them.

I didn't listen to him playing, but saw that he did. We'll see. The thing with Witherfall is I expect them to only be a project band. Something akin to Shadow Gallery, where they rarely play live, but do records. With Jake in Iced Earth, which tours heavily, he simply is not going to be available.

Perhaps if Jon did Jake a solid, and allowed Witherfall to open, Jake could do double duty, but that's the only way I see them touring viably at all...
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 08, 2017, 11:03:34 AM
Yeah, I've been listening to it a lot too. Can't really help but be a bit addicted to the band at this point. Their sound is sorta like my dream vision of the sort of band I'd want to hear. :blush

I do hope we get official news on whoever their new drummer is gonna be sometime soon. I'd love for it to be Gergo Borlai, since he did such a great job with his rendition of "What We Are Dying For" and apparently hit it off really well with the rest of the band when he met them.

I didn't listen to him playing, but saw that he did. We'll see. The thing with Witherfall is I expect them to only be a project band. Something akin to Shadow Gallery, where they rarely play live, but do records. With Jake in Iced Earth, which tours heavily, he simply is not going to be available.

Perhaps if Jon did Jake a solid, and allowed Witherfall to open, Jake could do double duty, but that's the only way I see them touring viably at all...


Jake and Joseph have mentioned in an interview or two that they fully intend for Witherfall to develop into a viable touring band, starting off with basic opening act gigs and working their way up from there. Frankly, I don't think Iced Earth will be that big of a hinderance for them, for two reasons:

1. Iced Earth is notorious for its ever-changing lineup. While I love that Jake is there in that band, I'll be stunned if he sticks around long term.
2. Iced Earth is also getting up there in age. It's kinda like Queensryche in that I'm not really sure how many years it has left in the tank.

However the idea of Jake getting double duty and playing a short Witherfall set to open for Iced Earth's main show would be a good way for the band to kick off its live act. We'll see what happens though.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Grappler on May 08, 2017, 11:23:05 AM
Jake and Joseph have mentioned in an interview or two that they fully intend for Witherfall to develop into a viable touring band, starting off with basic opening act gigs and working their way up from there. Frankly, I don't think Iced Earth will be that big of a hinderance for them, for two reasons:

1. Iced Earth is notorious for its ever-changing lineup. While I love that Jake is there in that band, I'll be stunned if he sticks around long term.
2. Iced Earth is also getting up there in age. It's kinda like Queensryche in that I'm not really sure how many years it has left in the tank.


The second point has some merit, though it could be that Jon just scales the band back into a studio band with limited live dates.  He seems to be truly committed to the band as of the last 6 years, and the band's income is mainly generated from touring relentlessly, so I don't see that happening soon.

As far as lineup changes, the last few members that have left (Freddie Vidales, Troy Seele, Matt Barlow, Brent's on/off time) come from real-life getting in the way of the band.  Those guys are older than Jake and all had more important commitments in their day jobs, careers and families, that had to take precedence.  The band has had a pretty stable lineup for a decade, with very little of the typical "Jon is tough to work for" blowups coming from ex-members.  Jake is younger, and if he's committed to the music industry and touring as much as the band needs, then he'll probably stick around for a good handful of years, if not longer.  Troy was in the band for 9-10 years straight as the second guitarist.

I'd love to see them open for IE on their next tour.  That would be a really cool pairing.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Samsara on May 08, 2017, 12:51:37 PM

I'd love to see them open for IE on their next tour.  That would be a really cool pairing.

Just seems like a no brainer to me, as long as Jake can handle it, and Jon is OK with it.

I am glad Witherfall has plans to develop. They have a ton of potential. Opening for IE would be a great start. Hopefully it happens.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 08, 2017, 01:32:39 PM

I'd love to see them open for IE on their next tour.  That would be a really cool pairing.

Just seems like a no brainer to me, as long as Jake can handle it, and Jon is OK with it.

I am glad Witherfall has plans to develop. They have a ton of potential. Opening for IE would be a great start. Hopefully it happens.

I'd certainly pay some good money to go see Witherfall and Iced Earth play a show together. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on May 10, 2017, 12:57:04 PM
According to the interview they did with Germany Metal Magazine ROCKHARD they are working on new material.


https://www.witherfall.com/home/blog/jake-dreyer-joseph-michael-interview-with-rockhard-magazine-germany
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 10, 2017, 05:42:49 PM
According to the interview they did with Germany Metal Magazine ROCKHARD they are working on new material.


https://www.witherfall.com/home/blog/jake-dreyer-joseph-michael-interview-with-rockhard-magazine-germany

Yeah, I wouldn't be surprised at all if we get another Witherfall album in a year or two.

I'm just wondering when we'll get an announcement on who the new drummer will be. At this point, it seems pretty clear that Anthony Crawford is officially the band's bassist (which is awesome news imo).
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: 0u81234 on May 12, 2017, 04:44:04 AM
Witherfall already reminds me of Death. I have a feeling that Jake Dreyer and Joseph Michael are going to be the Chuck Schuldiner (' s) of the group and just recruit insane musicians to tour and record: IE Anthony Crawford and Gergo Borlai. 
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 12, 2017, 09:38:40 AM
Witherfall already reminds me of Death. I have a feeling that Jake Dreyer and Joseph Michael are going to be the Chuck Schuldiner (' s) of the group and just recruit insane musicians to tour and record: IE Anthony Crawford and Gergo Borlai.

That's definitely a pretty good comparison, though I'd argue Witherfall bears more resemblance to Chuck's short-lived prog metal band, Control Denied, than Death itself.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on May 20, 2017, 11:52:30 AM
I'm hearing an "Awake" era Dream Theater tone as well.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 20, 2017, 02:41:51 PM
I'm hearing an "Awake" era Dream Theater tone as well.

Yeah, that's definitely true too! And it's interesting, because Chuck Schuldiner was apparently a pretty big fan of Awake when it came out.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 20, 2017, 09:57:12 PM
Big news!!!! The band just announced that they've accepted a second guitarist named Fili Bibiano into the band!

Quote
Witherfall have been working with a second guitarist and in the process of honing our live show production. Watching this guy here play 32nd note sextuplets in harmony with Jake Dreyer is always entertaining...

Today we would like to officially announce guitarist Fili Bibianos addition to the band. Please show him some hospitality and join us in welcoming him. \../,
https://www.facebook.com/witherfall/photos/a.377664985729428.1073741828.377655475730379/833884086774180/?type=3&theater

Here's a short clip of Fili shredding with Jake.
https://www.facebook.com/witherfall/videos/834095533419702/

Hopefully we get news about the new drummer soon! :metal

EDIT: Here's some other clips I found of Fili covering some Uli Jon Roth-era Scorpions and also some of his own work from a previous band he was in. Dude's a great fit for the band, I think.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nYQ-I7c3Mdw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQ5FxizP67A
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Samsara on May 22, 2017, 08:00:30 AM
Very cool. I am looking forward to at some point seeing them live.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Prog Snob on May 22, 2017, 01:01:25 PM
Comparing them to Pink Floyd is a brazen move. I'll have to check them out.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on May 22, 2017, 01:12:34 PM
Comparing them to Pink Floyd is a brazen move. I'll have to check them out.
Definitely some pink floyd and queen vibe...
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Prog Snob on May 22, 2017, 01:19:37 PM
I just went through three songs and I don't really like it. I definitely hear some Nevermore and some Savatage. Some of the parts remind me of Opeth. I must have missed the PF influence.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on May 22, 2017, 01:21:32 PM
I just went through three songs and I don't really like it. I definitely hear some Nevermore and some Savatage. Some of the parts remind me of Opeth. I must have missed the PF influence.

Yeah if you don't hear the whole thing you could miss it. The album changes gears a lot throughout. Nobody Sleeps here and The Middle Section of Sacrifice are the most obvious. I hear the Savatage too.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Samsara on May 22, 2017, 02:19:00 PM
I just went through three songs and I don't really like it. I definitely hear some Nevermore and some Savatage. Some of the parts remind me of Opeth. I must have missed the PF influence.

Listen to the entirety of "End of Time." You'll hear it.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: 0u81234 on May 22, 2017, 03:46:03 PM
I just went through three songs and I don't really like it. I definitely hear some Nevermore and some Savatage. Some of the parts remind me of Opeth. I must have missed the PF influence.


The middle breakdown section of "Sacrifice" has an "Animals" era feel to it in my opinion.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 22, 2017, 05:42:36 PM
Yeah, I'm with Samsara, Ou81234 and EVILPROGBOY on this one.

The Pink Floyd influences are there, but only for certain segments of certain songs- namely the three epics of the album (Sacrifice, End of Time and Nobody Sleeps Here...). The midsection breakdown in Sacrifice, for example, showcases a bass line from Anthony Crawford that's very reminiscent of "Sheep" off of PF's Animals album.

Personally, I think the best way to get into the band is to just listen to the whole album from start-to-finish. I find that the album flows together really well and has a certain dramatic/cinematic quality to it like Savatage or Pink Floyd had on their works. :tup
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Prog Snob on May 23, 2017, 05:25:38 AM
The influence is probably there in spurts. I don't think the rest of the music is that good though, even if I did try and find those remote moments of PF influence. I feel like everything else is generic. That's just me though. I heard three songs from that one album and nothing struck me as exceptional. Nevermore have always been hit or miss with me and I feel that is the biggest influence I hear.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 23, 2017, 06:07:34 AM
The influence is probably there in spurts. I don't think the rest of the music is that good though, even if I did try and find those remote moments of PF influence. I feel like everything else is generic. That's just me though. I heard three songs from that one album and nothing struck me as exceptional. Nevermore have always been hit or miss with me and I feel that is the biggest influence I hear.

(https://media.tenor.co/images/16c1f75a65e478cbdad8648fb403cc34/tenor.gif)

In all seriousness though, I'm sorry that the band didn't gel for you. They're my personal favorite discovery I've had in a loooong time, so I'm admittedly biased as hell about them, but I do genuinely think they're a gifted and creative band. They're just not for everyone, I suppose.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Prog Snob on May 23, 2017, 06:33:28 AM
(https://66.media.tumblr.com/e62de30fb09fb61fefe0e8635d7328e7/tumblr_nglvfybIO81smivoro1_500.gif)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on May 23, 2017, 12:41:11 PM
The influence is probably there in spurts. I don't think the rest of the music is that good though, even if I did try and find those remote moments of PF influence. I feel like everything else is generic. That's just me though. I heard three songs from that one album and nothing struck me as exceptional. Nevermore have always been hit or miss with me and I feel that is the biggest influence I hear.

Three songs from the album is not listening to the whole album. The Album is many things. Generic is not one of them.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 23, 2017, 04:41:48 PM
The influence is probably there in spurts. I don't think the rest of the music is that good though, even if I did try and find those remote moments of PF influence. I feel like everything else is generic. That's just me though. I heard three songs from that one album and nothing struck me as exceptional. Nevermore have always been hit or miss with me and I feel that is the biggest influence I hear.

Three songs from the album is not listening to the whole album. The Album is many things. Generic is not one of them.

While I definitely think it was weird for Prog Snob to describe the band as "generic," because they're about as far away from that word as it gets, I think it's clear at this point that they're just not gonna gel for him.

He says he's not a big Nevermore fan, and there's definitely a ton of Nevermore influence in Witherfall's sound. There's a lot of other influences present too imo, but if the Nevermore element is a problem, I doubt hearing the rest of the album is gonna change his mind much.

(https://66.media.tumblr.com/e62de30fb09fb61fefe0e8635d7328e7/tumblr_nglvfybIO81smivoro1_500.gif)

Heh. Well played, especially in reference to my username! :tup

(https://media.giphy.com/media/Gh3jJC9wXRo1q/giphy.gif)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Prog Snob on May 23, 2017, 06:22:00 PM
 :lol  I never saw that one.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 23, 2017, 06:39:30 PM
:lol  I never saw that one.

:lol I just googled "Mr Gold" and found it in the Images segment. :biggrin:


Honestly I've considered a few times going back and changing the thread title to something like "Savatage + King Diamond + Nevermore = Witherfall", since that might be a tad bit more accurate to their 'main' sound. However I've been keeping the PF bit in there since I find the moments on the album where those influences pop up to be some of the album's top highlights for me.

It's not the 'main sound,' but it's that element that helps make the band feel a bit more special to me. That they're technically adept enough to go toe-to-toe with the likes of Yngwie or Petrucci, but also have the sensibilities of mixing things up and going for the more atmospheric, soulful angles a la David Gilmour or Chris DeGarmo.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Prog Snob on May 24, 2017, 03:14:37 AM
I always give things a second listen. Hell, it took me three or four listens to get into The Astonishing, so you never know.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 24, 2017, 08:12:00 PM
I always give things a second listen. Hell, it took me three or four listens to get into The Astonishing, so you never know.

Well, that's good to hear! :tup I do hope it clicks for you at some point! :biggrin:


As an aside, I was thinking recently that Witherfall could potentially end up being the closest thing we'll ever get to a spiritual successor to Chuck Schuldiner's short lived prog metal band, Control Denied.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: 0u81234 on May 25, 2017, 02:50:55 AM
I always give things a second listen. Hell, it took me three or four listens to get into The Astonishing, so you never know.


I hear new things every time I listen to the record. I agree with Mister Gold that this record is best listened to from start to finish. In one of the song breakdown clips, Joseph and Jake both talk about how they put a lot of thought in the track sequencing.

I always give things a second listen. Hell, it took me three or four listens to get into The Astonishing, so you never know.

Well, that's good to hear! :tup I do hope it clicks for you at some point! :biggrin:


As an aside, I was thinking recently that Witherfall could potentially end up being the closest thing we'll ever get to a spiritual successor to Chuck Schuldiner's short lived prog metal band, Control Denied.

Richard Christy should play drums for Witherfall!  :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: FOXAN03 on May 25, 2017, 04:00:11 AM
Gave it a listen, by far the best album i've heard all year! amazing  :metal :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on May 25, 2017, 04:27:32 PM
I always give things a second listen. Hell, it took me three or four listens to get into The Astonishing, so you never know.


I hear new things every time I listen to the record. I agree with Mister Gold that this record is best listened to from start to finish. In one of the song breakdown clips, Joseph and Jake both talk about how they put a lot of thought in the track sequencing.

Yeah, it's definitely one of those albums that flows together really, really well.

Quote
Richard Christy should play drums for Witherfall!  :metal

Now there's an idea! Personally I'm still hoping that Gergo Borlai ends up being the new drummer, but Christy would be a cool addition to the band.

I dunno if it'd happen though- isn't Christy still primarily focusing on working with Howard Stern still? He only does Charred Walls of the Damned every now and then, I think.

Gave it a listen, by far the best album i've heard all year! amazing  :metal :metal

Yup! This is a pretty stunning album for me. I'm really eager to see what the band comes up with on their next album, whenever that comes around. :metal

As an aside, so far "Nobody Sleeps Here..." is the best new song I've heard this year. I know it's Joseph and Jake's favorite song on the album and I personally feel like that's the song that best represents what the band seems to want to accomplish musically moving forward. It's like Animals/The Wall-era Pink Floyd collaborated with Late 90's Chuck Schuldiner and Hall of the Mountain King-era Savatage.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on June 10, 2017, 10:41:15 AM
Gave it a listen, by far the best album i've heard all year! amazing  :metal :metal
   :metal :metal :metal


According to the singers facebook page they are working on new material.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on June 11, 2017, 08:59:26 PM
Gave it a listen, by far the best album i've heard all year! amazing  :metal :metal
   :metal :metal :metal


According to the singers facebook page they are working on new material.

Not surprised. Joseph and Jake mentioned in an interview a couple months back that they were already working on new material for the next album, so I'm looking forward to that.

They said like a week or two ago that some big announcements were coming soon (and in the Facebook comments section, they implied US tour dates will be one of them), so I'm hoping that means they've finally figured out who their next drummer is.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Samsara on June 16, 2017, 08:50:52 AM
Just turned a co-worker onto Witherfall. He's an old school metalhead from the 80s and 90s. Dug what he heard, thought Witherfall had a Yngwie vibe of sorts.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: bosk1 on June 16, 2017, 08:58:10 AM
I listened to the album awhile back and nothing really stood out.  Checking it out again thanks to the thread bump.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on June 16, 2017, 08:36:12 PM
I listened to the album awhile back and nothing really stood out.  Checking it out again thanks to the thread bump.

Be sure to let us all know what you think of the album on the latest listen! :tup

Just turned a co-worker onto Witherfall. He's an old school metalhead from the 80s and 90s. Dug what he heard, thought Witherfall had a Yngwie vibe of sorts.

Nice! I also got an old metalhead friend of mine into the band too, which is great cause he normally doesn't care much for prog metal.


Speaking of Witherfall, they actually just released this English translation of a new interview on their website earlier today! There's some pretty interesting tidbits in it, imo.

Quote
1. Has Jon Schaffer already heard your debut? I'm asking because the new Iced Earth will come out in a few weeks and you share the same guitar player...

Jake: I actually just sent out a vinyl of Nocturnes and Requiems to Jon a few days ago. Schaffer and I are both big vinyl fans and we bond over vinyl hunting and listening. That's how we would end a night of tracking when I was doing the Iced Earth record "Incorruptible". Spinning one of his copies of "Powerage" by AC/DC or "Animals" by Pink Floyd. As part of my audition for Iced Earth I sent him over "End of Time" and "What we are Dying for".

2. I know it's a tough question – but how do you see your record in the light of all the metalstuff that is flooding the scene?

Joseph- To me Witherfall is it's own genre. We really don't try to fit any mold when we write. I think the best bands over the course of Rock/Metal/Pop history have done something similar. There are a choice few bands that we respect.

Why should someone check out WITHERFALL?

Joseph – Because they owe it to themselves to listen to something that isn't pandering to them. That's just prostitution. Art isn't figuring out what will get someone off and creating that, it's about fucking someone (musically speaking)until you get off and hopefully they also get off with you.

Jake- Witherfall tries to write not just songs but albums in the sense that a film or a novel are presented. It's all about the sum of all the parts. In my opinion, not a lot of records recently are written this way. To me Witherfall is something original, it's a giant melting pot of different genres and ideas put into one all under the camouflage of a metal band.

4. Witherfall is a relatively new band whose first record has just been released earlier this year. Not a very original question, but how did it all begin for you?

Jake-  Joseph and I worked together in a band and we both discovered our love for the same music and influences and the idea of forming a band that had the freedom of what Led Zeppelin was able to do. We were in Europe when the idea to form Witherfall came together. A few weeks later we got together in Los Angeles and started the writing of what became "Nocturnes and Requiems". I had worked with Adam in the past and always loved the way he would compose drum patterns and he had the perfect feel and technical ability to handle the written material. Anthony came into the picture during the production. We saw a video of him playing with Allan Holdsworth and Virgil Donati and the idea of having a fusion influenced bassist that understood and could hear classical harmony made it a very interesting thing.

5. How old are the songs on „Nocturnes...“? Who wrote them?

Jake - Joseph and I both wrote all the songs but a lot of the riffs trace back between 2012 and 2013. For example most of the guitar parts in Sacrifice were written throughout 2012. We arranged them together during our first writing session. Part 1 of End of Time was an alternate picking etude but I always knew it would lead into the arpeggiated acoustic verses that begin the second half. The song was written in 2013 but the beginning and ideas trace back a year before. All songs were complete though from November 2013-May or June of 2014

Joseph – Yeah Jake and I knew we shared the same vision but for proof we decided to sit down together and actually do some writing. He showed me some ideas he had and I immediately knew we had something. We basically wrote the main part of the arrangements and worked out chord progressions and harmonies within the first 5-6 weeks.

6. The record is dedicated to Adam Sagan, who sadly passed away in late 2016. What happened? What can you tell us about Adam, what kind of guy, what kind of musician was he?

Jake-When we were doing the original photos for Nocturnes and Requiems we had initially scheduled a photoshoot in November of 2015 the exact day Adam was scheduled to fly into Los Angeles he was sent to the hospital where they first told him he had the cancer. That night and the following day Joseph and I pulled a ridiculous red wine fueled bender (I still have the bottle of Roja that started it off, it is named (Adam)) this involved Joseph waking up in my bathtub and me in my closet... Adam was an extremely positive guy who could lead anyone through almost anything. He had me convinced he would beat the cancer. Joseph, not so much. The night I found out about his death I was on tour in the Netherlands with Iced Earth. Stu who played with Adam in Into Eternity had received a text and as he was getting that Joseph called me up and broke the news that he was being pulled from life support. I was very upset and emotional about it and it is even hard now to think that Adam cannot be apart of these interviews. Adam was the perfect musician for Witherfall Joseph and I had worked out and composed all the songs on the record and within my first pre-pro session with Adam him and I had went through "Portrait", "End of Time Pt II" and "Sacrifice" and I knew he was the guy. Joseph and I flew back to Minneapolis and finished off the rest of The Album. He is a tremendous loss. I wish he was around to be apart of the success of this album. Adam would have been proud. One Eerie coincidence is that Adam named the album "Nocturnes and Requiems" about nine months before he found out about his cancer.

Joseph-  Yeah man, Jake basically summed it up. I have an eerie recollection of some weird lump above his collar bone all the way back to when he was road tech for Cannibal Corpse. I happened to notice it when he was on the floor doing his weird yoga warmup thing he used to do. It's freaky to think about it after the fact.

Can you tell us a bit more about the lyrical side of the band? Is there a concept that keeps all tracks together? Or are they more or less linked by general ideas?

Joseph - There is no concept. It is one non-linear dreamscape. Like when you wake up in a cold sweat from one dream and fall back asleep to a different theme. I got the idea from the early Stephen King Collections.

8. When you first see the artwork, one could easily put into the Death Metal genre. Who had the idea of the cover? Were there more concepts that you gave out to Kristian Wahlin?

Jake- We love Kristian's work and he was the first guy we thought of and asked to do the cover art. We sent him some Pre-production demos we had made so that he could get an idea of how the band sounded and then we pretty much left him alone for the two months it took him to hand paint it. He has such a great track record that he was probably the only guy we gave up total control too. Besides the fact we wanted the art to have a certain color scheme. To me it is the perfect cover for "Nocturnes and Requiems" for so many reasons.

Joseph- I really take issue with that. It's like how did bands with non-melodic vocals get a monopoly on dark imagery?

9. Jake, you were a part of Jag Panzer – how long have you been into the band? Did you work on some songs with Mark?

Jake- I was literally in the band for a few hours. My good friend and guitar instructor was Chris Broderick who played in jag panzer and in 2011 he had asked if I would be interested in replacing their current guitarist who had just left I learned a couple of solos and songs then auditioned and got the gig but they went on a hiatus a few days later so I never performed or have met them. Mark is a very nice guy from the emails that I corresponded with and I know him and Chris are still fairly close to this day.

What is your opinion on them – and why are you not in the band anymore as they reunited once again?

Jake- I really like Jag Panzer, I believe Joey Tafolla came back who was their original guitar player.

10. Another one for Jake: Your guitar-playing is breathtaking and there are glimpses of Michael Romeo, Malmsteen and even R. Blackmore in your playing. Who really are your idols?

Jake- I really like Romeo's playing but wouldn't necessarily call him an influence. Yngwie and Blackmore are two big influences though along with most of the Shrapnel artist Marty Friedman, Jason Becker, Paul Gilbert. For acoustic I like Al Di Meola and Paco De Lucia. I am also into guys like Brian May from Queen and Lindsey Buckingham from Fleetwood Mac two extremely melodic players that I find very underrated. David Gilmour has to be in there as well.

A bit of gossip: Some people might know that Joseph Michael is Ronnie J. Dio's cousin – how close were you? What kind of guy was he in private? Was he really the rainbow in the dark? :)

Joseph – I only spoke a couple of times with Him. He was a picture on my Uncles wall. Great singer obviously. He died before I could really get to know him or connect.

It's amazing that you released the record all by yourself – and even the beautiful vinyl issues were pressed without a record company behind. Did you get any offers after the release? What must happen to sign a record deal?

Joseph- We received a few offers, but I am glad we went independent at the start. We have received so much support from real music and metal fans. I think that a band like us that doesn't sound like anyone else benefits from having the people judge the record on it's own merit and not how another company wants to market it.

13. How possible is it to have a second Witherfall-record soon? Is it possible to have it by 2018? How are chances for a band to release records every one and a half or every two years?

Jake-Joseph and I are writing the next record now so it is very likely it will have a 2018 release date. Witherfall is all about quality so that's our number one priority.

Joseph- I think every year is possible. Jake and I work very well together. We already have a number of compositions in the works. I can say this much. They are very dark and topical.
https://www.witherfall.com/home/blog/witherfall-interview-in-german-deaf-forever-magazine

So yeah, sounds like we might be getting the next Witherfall album as soon as next year! I'm definitely game for that! :metal

I do hope we get an announcement soon though on who the band's new drummer is.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: FOXAN03 on June 19, 2017, 05:41:35 PM
So far I've bought 17 albums this year and this is the best i've heard all year!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on July 31, 2017, 06:50:55 PM
For some reason the album is no longer available in Europe...
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on August 01, 2017, 02:32:14 PM
I listened to the album awhile back and nothing really stood out.  Checking it out again thanks to the thread bump.

Be sure to let us all know what you think of the album on the latest listen! :tup

Just turned a co-worker onto Witherfall. He's an old school metalhead from the 80s and 90s. Dug what he heard, thought Witherfall had a Yngwie vibe of sorts.


Interesting... https://www.centurymedia.com/artist.aspx?IdArtist=1954
Nice! I also got an old metalhead friend of mine into the band too, which is great cause he normally doesn't care much for prog metal.


Speaking of Witherfall, they actually just released this English translation of a new interview on their website earlier today! There's some pretty interesting tidbits in it, imo.

Quote
1. Has Jon Schaffer already heard your debut? I'm asking because the new Iced Earth will come out in a few weeks and you share the same guitar player...

Jake: I actually just sent out a vinyl of Nocturnes and Requiems to Jon a few days ago. Schaffer and I are both big vinyl fans and we bond over vinyl hunting and listening. That's how we would end a night of tracking when I was doing the Iced Earth record "Incorruptible". Spinning one of his copies of "Powerage" by AC/DC or "Animals" by Pink Floyd. As part of my audition for Iced Earth I sent him over "End of Time" and "What we are Dying for".

2. I know it's a tough question – but how do you see your record in the light of all the metalstuff that is flooding the scene?

Joseph- To me Witherfall is it's own genre. We really don't try to fit any mold when we write. I think the best bands over the course of Rock/Metal/Pop history have done something similar. There are a choice few bands that we respect.

Why should someone check out WITHERFALL?

Joseph – Because they owe it to themselves to listen to something that isn't pandering to them. That's just prostitution. Art isn't figuring out what will get someone off and creating that, it's about fucking someone (musically speaking)until you get off and hopefully they also get off with you.

Jake- Witherfall tries to write not just songs but albums in the sense that a film or a novel are presented. It's all about the sum of all the parts. In my opinion, not a lot of records recently are written this way. To me Witherfall is something original, it's a giant melting pot of different genres and ideas put into one all under the camouflage of a metal band.

4. Witherfall is a relatively new band whose first record has just been released earlier this year. Not a very original question, but how did it all begin for you?

Jake-  Joseph and I worked together in a band and we both discovered our love for the same music and influences and the idea of forming a band that had the freedom of what Led Zeppelin was able to do. We were in Europe when the idea to form Witherfall came together. A few weeks later we got together in Los Angeles and started the writing of what became "Nocturnes and Requiems". I had worked with Adam in the past and always loved the way he would compose drum patterns and he had the perfect feel and technical ability to handle the written material. Anthony came into the picture during the production. We saw a video of him playing with Allan Holdsworth and Virgil Donati and the idea of having a fusion influenced bassist that understood and could hear classical harmony made it a very interesting thing.

5. How old are the songs on „Nocturnes...“? Who wrote them?

Jake - Joseph and I both wrote all the songs but a lot of the riffs trace back between 2012 and 2013. For example most of the guitar parts in Sacrifice were written throughout 2012. We arranged them together during our first writing session. Part 1 of End of Time was an alternate picking etude but I always knew it would lead into the arpeggiated acoustic verses that begin the second half. The song was written in 2013 but the beginning and ideas trace back a year before. All songs were complete though from November 2013-May or June of 2014

Joseph – Yeah Jake and I knew we shared the same vision but for proof we decided to sit down together and actually do some writing. He showed me some ideas he had and I immediately knew we had something. We basically wrote the main part of the arrangements and worked out chord progressions and harmonies within the first 5-6 weeks.

6. The record is dedicated to Adam Sagan, who sadly passed away in late 2016. What happened? What can you tell us about Adam, what kind of guy, what kind of musician was he?

Jake-When we were doing the original photos for Nocturnes and Requiems we had initially scheduled a photoshoot in November of 2015 the exact day Adam was scheduled to fly into Los Angeles he was sent to the hospital where they first told him he had the cancer. That night and the following day Joseph and I pulled a ridiculous red wine fueled bender (I still have the bottle of Roja that started it off, it is named (Adam)) this involved Joseph waking up in my bathtub and me in my closet... Adam was an extremely positive guy who could lead anyone through almost anything. He had me convinced he would beat the cancer. Joseph, not so much. The night I found out about his death I was on tour in the Netherlands with Iced Earth. Stu who played with Adam in Into Eternity had received a text and as he was getting that Joseph called me up and broke the news that he was being pulled from life support. I was very upset and emotional about it and it is even hard now to think that Adam cannot be apart of these interviews. Adam was the perfect musician for Witherfall Joseph and I had worked out and composed all the songs on the record and within my first pre-pro session with Adam him and I had went through "Portrait", "End of Time Pt II" and "Sacrifice" and I knew he was the guy. Joseph and I flew back to Minneapolis and finished off the rest of The Album. He is a tremendous loss. I wish he was around to be apart of the success of this album. Adam would have been proud. One Eerie coincidence is that Adam named the album "Nocturnes and Requiems" about nine months before he found out about his cancer.

Joseph-  Yeah man, Jake basically summed it up. I have an eerie recollection of some weird lump above his collar bone all the way back to when he was road tech for Cannibal Corpse. I happened to notice it when he was on the floor doing his weird yoga warmup thing he used to do. It's freaky to think about it after the fact.

Can you tell us a bit more about the lyrical side of the band? Is there a concept that keeps all tracks together? Or are they more or less linked by general ideas?

Joseph - There is no concept. It is one non-linear dreamscape. Like when you wake up in a cold sweat from one dream and fall back asleep to a different theme. I got the idea from the early Stephen King Collections.

8. When you first see the artwork, one could easily put into the Death Metal genre. Who had the idea of the cover? Were there more concepts that you gave out to Kristian Wahlin?

Jake- We love Kristian's work and he was the first guy we thought of and asked to do the cover art. We sent him some Pre-production demos we had made so that he could get an idea of how the band sounded and then we pretty much left him alone for the two months it took him to hand paint it. He has such a great track record that he was probably the only guy we gave up total control too. Besides the fact we wanted the art to have a certain color scheme. To me it is the perfect cover for "Nocturnes and Requiems" for so many reasons.

Joseph- I really take issue with that. It's like how did bands with non-melodic vocals get a monopoly on dark imagery?

9. Jake, you were a part of Jag Panzer – how long have you been into the band? Did you work on some songs with Mark?

Jake- I was literally in the band for a few hours. My good friend and guitar instructor was Chris Broderick who played in jag panzer and in 2011 he had asked if I would be interested in replacing their current guitarist who had just left I learned a couple of solos and songs then auditioned and got the gig but they went on a hiatus a few days later so I never performed or have met them. Mark is a very nice guy from the emails that I corresponded with and I know him and Chris are still fairly close to this day.

What is your opinion on them – and why are you not in the band anymore as they reunited once again?

Jake- I really like Jag Panzer, I believe Joey Tafolla came back who was their original guitar player.

10. Another one for Jake: Your guitar-playing is breathtaking and there are glimpses of Michael Romeo, Malmsteen and even R. Blackmore in your playing. Who really are your idols?

Jake- I really like Romeo's playing but wouldn't necessarily call him an influence. Yngwie and Blackmore are two big influences though along with most of the Shrapnel artist Marty Friedman, Jason Becker, Paul Gilbert. For acoustic I like Al Di Meola and Paco De Lucia. I am also into guys like Brian May from Queen and Lindsey Buckingham from Fleetwood Mac two extremely melodic players that I find very underrated. David Gilmour has to be in there as well.

A bit of gossip: Some people might know that Joseph Michael is Ronnie J. Dio's cousin – how close were you? What kind of guy was he in private? Was he really the rainbow in the dark? :)

Joseph – I only spoke a couple of times with Him. He was a picture on my Uncles wall. Great singer obviously. He died before I could really get to know him or connect.

It's amazing that you released the record all by yourself – and even the beautiful vinyl issues were pressed without a record company behind. Did you get any offers after the release? What must happen to sign a record deal?

Joseph- We received a few offers, but I am glad we went independent at the start. We have received so much support from real music and metal fans. I think that a band like us that doesn't sound like anyone else benefits from having the people judge the record on it's own merit and not how another company wants to market it.

13. How possible is it to have a second Witherfall-record soon? Is it possible to have it by 2018? How are chances for a band to release records every one and a half or every two years?

Jake-Joseph and I are writing the next record now so it is very likely it will have a 2018 release date. Witherfall is all about quality so that's our number one priority.

Joseph- I think every year is possible. Jake and I work very well together. We already have a number of compositions in the works. I can say this much. They are very dark and topical.
https://www.witherfall.com/home/blog/witherfall-interview-in-german-deaf-forever-magazine

So yeah, sounds like we might be getting the next Witherfall album as soon as next year! I'm definitely game for that! :metal

I do hope we get an announcement soon though on who the band's new drummer is.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Samsara on August 01, 2017, 02:39:07 PM
For some reason the album is no longer available in Europe...

The band just signed to INside Out, and they are apparently re-releasing it in Europe!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: 0u81234 on August 01, 2017, 08:29:53 PM
For some reason the album is no longer available in Europe...

The band just signed to INside Out, and they are apparently re-releasing it in Europe!


Blabbermouth reported it as Century Media. https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/witherfall-signs-with-century-media/
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on August 02, 2017, 06:34:19 AM
Yeah, the official press release from them also confirms that it's Century Media that they specifically signed on with, not Inside Out. Either way, I think it's fantastic news!

I had thought for sure that the big announcement was going to be whoever their new drummer is, but alas that isn't the case yet. I'm still hoping it's Gergo Borlai personally.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Samsara on August 02, 2017, 08:18:03 AM
Oops, yep, I meant CM, but wrote Inside Out. Sorry guys!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on August 03, 2017, 03:16:38 PM
Oops, yep, I meant CM, but wrote Inside Out. Sorry guys!

\../,
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on August 26, 2017, 06:25:19 PM
Yeah, the official press release from them also confirms that it's Century Media that they specifically signed on with, not Inside Out. Either way, I think it's fantastic news!

I had thought for sure that the big announcement was going to be whoever their new drummer is, but alas that isn't the case yet. I'm still hoping it's Gergo Borlai personally.

New Wine Red Vinyl being released in US. https://www.witherfall.com/home/blog/witherfall-release-limted-edition-in-vino-veritas-red-wine-vinyl
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on August 26, 2017, 07:24:33 PM
Yeah, the official press release from them also confirms that it's Century Media that they specifically signed on with, not Inside Out. Either way, I think it's fantastic news!

I had thought for sure that the big announcement was going to be whoever their new drummer is, but alas that isn't the case yet. I'm still hoping it's Gergo Borlai personally.

New Wine Red Vinyl being released in US. https://www.witherfall.com/home/blog/witherfall-release-limted-edition-in-vino-veritas-red-wine-vinyl

Yup, already pre-ordered mine. With that purchase, I'm pretty sure that makes Witherfall's Nocturnes & Requiems the album I've purchased the most times ever (first in mp3 format on iTunes, then again on CD and now with the In Vino Veritas vinyl record). Usually I just buy an album once or twice. Never done it three times before, I think.

Oh and in the recent audio interview that Joseph and Jake did with That Drummer Guy (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1I6S1t1Sus), they mentioned that they've pretty much already written the entire second album at this point and describe a bit of the album. There's ten songs in total; six unrelated songs and a 35 minute long four-song-long suite about Adam and his death.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: TAC on August 26, 2017, 07:27:36 PM
Are we talking Adam from Adam and Eve, or is this an actual person the band knows?
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on August 26, 2017, 07:28:26 PM
Are we talking Adam from Adam and Eve, or is this an actual person the band knows?

Adam Sagan, the band's original drummer. He died from cancer just before the first album was released.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: TAC on August 26, 2017, 07:30:26 PM
Oh OK. I mean..not OK. Thank you, I didn't know.

Still my AOTY.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on August 26, 2017, 07:36:42 PM
Oh OK. I mean..not OK. Thank you, I didn't know.

Still my AOTY.

Yeah, it's a pretty tragic thing. Apparently Sagan was in quite a few bands over the years, like Circle II Circle and Into Eternity. It sucks that he didn't get to see how well-received the album has been by folks.

And yeah, same. I freaking love this album and can't wait to hear the next album whenever that comes out.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on August 27, 2017, 02:43:06 PM
He was great. There are some great videos of Circle II CIrcle playing live with him.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on September 20, 2017, 10:56:35 AM
The band just posted a video on their YouTube channel that announced who the new drummer is. It's Steve Bolognese, another Into Eternity alumni like Adam Sagan was!!! Dude sounds awesome in the video!!! :metal

Here's the link to the video, btw!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0G7AoaUfZg
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on September 21, 2017, 12:31:58 PM
The band just posted a video on their YouTube channel that announced who the new drummer is. It's Steve Bolognese, another Into Eternity alumni like Adam Sagan was!!! Dude sounds awesome in the video!!! :metal

Here's the link to the video, btw!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0G7AoaUfZg

WOW, He replaced Adam in into eternity as well....

https://witherfall.com/home/blog/witherfall-welcomes-new-drummer-steve-bolognese-ex-into-eternity
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on September 21, 2017, 01:41:39 PM
The band just posted a video on their YouTube channel that announced who the new drummer is. It's Steve Bolognese, another Into Eternity alumni like Adam Sagan was!!! Dude sounds awesome in the video!!! :metal

Here's the link to the video, btw!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0G7AoaUfZg

WOW, He replaced Adam in into eternity as well....

https://witherfall.com/home/blog/witherfall-welcomes-new-drummer-steve-bolognese-ex-into-eternity

Mhmm!

And something else that I think fellow DTF members will find really awesome- Steve Bolognese was formerly a student of Mike Mangini's at Berklee years ago and was the guy they selected to initially replace Mangini when he left the university to first join Dream Theater in 2011! He's since transferred over to teaching at a school in Los Angeles, but he's literally a pupil of a Dream Theater drummer! :metal

As an aside, I really loved Bolognese's drum work on Into Eternity's The Incurable Tragedy album. Dude's absolutely got the chops to succeed Adam here in Witherfall. I was hoping for Gergo Borlai for months, but in hindsight, I absolutely think Bolognese is the perfect guy to carry on the torch that Adam lit behind the drumkit for the band. He'll do right by Adam, I have no doubts about that whatsoever! :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on September 22, 2017, 02:48:16 PM
really?
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on November 11, 2017, 07:56:49 PM
Looks like another album is in the works! https://www.facebook.com/witherfall/photos/a.377664985729428.1073741828.377655475730379/932588786903709/?type=3&notif_id=1510382452256771&notif_t=like&ref=notif

The band just posted a video on their YouTube channel that announced who the new drummer is. It's Steve Bolognese, another Into Eternity alumni like Adam Sagan was!!! Dude sounds awesome in the video!!! :metal

Here's the link to the video, btw!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0G7AoaUfZg

WOW, He replaced Adam in into eternity as well....

https://witherfall.com/home/blog/witherfall-welcomes-new-drummer-steve-bolognese-ex-into-eternity

Mhmm!

And something else that I think fellow DTF members will find really awesome- Steve Bolognese was formerly a student of Mike Mangini's at Berklee years ago and was the guy they selected to initially replace Mangini when he left the university to first join Dream Theater in 2011! He's since transferred over to teaching at a school in Los Angeles, but he's literally a pupil of a Dream Theater drummer! :metal

As an aside, I really loved Bolognese's drum work on Into Eternity's The Incurable Tragedy album. Dude's absolutely got the chops to succeed Adam here in Witherfall. I was hoping for Gergo Borlai for months, but in hindsight, I absolutely think Bolognese is the perfect guy to carry on the torch that Adam lit behind the drumkit for the band. He'll do right by Adam, I have no doubts about that whatsoever! :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - Savatage + Nevermore + Pink Floyd = Witherfall
Post by: Mister Gold on November 13, 2017, 01:06:54 AM
Looks like another album is in the works! https://www.facebook.com/witherfall/photos/a.377664985729428.1073741828.377655475730379/932588786903709/?type=3&notif_id=1510382452256771&notif_t=like&ref=notif

Yup, saw that a couple days ago! Very excited to see how that turns out! And sorry for not confirming it a few months back, but yeah, Steve Bolognese was Mike Mangini's student and briefly succeeded him as a professor at Berklee when Mangini first joined Dream Theater. Dude's a perfect pick for succeeding Adam Sagan! :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Mister Gold on January 12, 2018, 04:52:00 AM
So a few big things to bring up here!!! :metal

1. Witherfall has officially announced their live debut show will be at this year's 70,000 Tons of Metal Cruise early next month!

2. There's a new song titled "The Long Walk Home (December)" from Witherfall on Amazon that will be purchasable in the middle of March- but I wouldn't be surprised if the band plays it live at the aforementioned show in a few weeks and possibly release a music video for the song ahead of time.

3. Sanctuary officially announced that Witherfall vocalist Joseph Michael will fill in for the late Warrel Dane on the previously announced US tour they're doing with Iced Earth this spring as a farewell tribute to Warrel.

Oh and the band finally released their first official band photo together! Sadly Adam was diagnosed with his cancer before they got a chance to do a band photo for the Nocturnes & Requiems lineup.

(https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/26219759_967512053411382_3003461720964112951_n.jpg?oh=45ef1c633dbf37290c27057c1a3b77ef&oe=5AB85D98)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Mister Gold on February 02, 2018, 03:56:27 AM
So the band just released their first music video today! Turns out it was for Portrait, but it's a pretty solid music video imo. :metal It plays more as a mini-horror movie and features some more risque elements.

https://www.decibelmagazine.com/2018/02/01/video-premiere-witherfall-portrait/
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on February 03, 2018, 02:14:38 PM
So the band just released their first music video today! Turns out it was for Portrait, but it's a pretty solid music video imo. :metal It plays more as a mini-horror movie and features some more risque elements.

https://www.decibelmagazine.com/2018/02/01/video-premiere-witherfall-portrait/

Did they just spread Adam Sagan s ashes on stage during their first show? "Zc Romero shared Witherfall's post.
1 hr ·

Adam Sagan’s ashes were laid upon the first stage Witherfall performed on this morning. During Adam’s sickness the thing he wanted most was to play these songs live.

It’s been just over a year since we lost him physically. He is undoubtedly missed and has been felt very strongly in everything the band has done. Can’t help but feel he’s been the energy behind everything that fell into place last year.

It’s a strange relief knowing that Adam’s brothers and his ashes are on the cruise with Jake & Joseph, and I hope this brings them and Adam’s family some peace."

https://www.facebook.com/witherfall/photos/a.377664985729428.1073741828.377655475730379/984027421759845/?type=3&notif_id=1517654701894255&notif_t=feedback_reaction_generic&ref=notif
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Mister Gold on February 04, 2018, 04:57:16 AM
Did they just spread Adam Sagan s ashes on stage during their first show? "Zc Romero shared Witherfall's post.
1 hr ·

Adam Sagan’s ashes were laid upon the first stage Witherfall performed on this morning. During Adam’s sickness the thing he wanted most was to play these songs live.

It’s been just over a year since we lost him physically. He is undoubtedly missed and has been felt very strongly in everything the band has done. Can’t help but feel he’s been the energy behind everything that fell into place last year.

It’s a strange relief knowing that Adam’s brothers and his ashes are on the cruise with Jake & Joseph, and I hope this brings them and Adam’s family some peace."

https://www.facebook.com/witherfall/photos/a.377664985729428.1073741828.377655475730379/984027421759845/?type=3&notif_id=1517654701894255&notif_t=feedback_reaction_generic&ref=notif

Yes, some of Adam's ashes were scattered onto the stage right before the band started their last song. Gear Gods recorded a video of it and released it on YouTube (presumably with the band's permission, seeing as how Jake worked with GG last year on doing a video of him playing What We Are Dying For that they released).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GwinmzF3UzA

Basically the band had Adam's brothers come up on stage to say a few words about Adam and commended Steve Bolognese for replacing Adam both in Into Eternity and now again in Witherfall, and then they scattered his ashes right as "Finale" began to kick in. Haven't seen any other concert footage yet, but presumably they went straight into Nobody Sleeps Here as the last song of their show after that.

Also, as an aside, Zc Romero/Zel Romero played the Ghost in the band's new music video for Portrait! ;)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Grappler on March 14, 2018, 08:15:41 AM
New song is available now.  Looks like I need to download this one when I get home tonight.

https://www.amazon.com/Long-Walk-Home-December/dp/B078RNXWB2/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1520977093&sr=8-3-fkmr0&keywords=witherfall+japan

Quote
On March 13th 2018 while Jake Dreyer and Joseph Michael are out on tour with Iced Earth and Sanctuary, Ward Records (Japan)  Will rel-release Witherfall "Nocturnes and Requiems" Import Orders can be placed here:

The Re-issue will also include a bonus track title "The Long Walk Home" (December) which is a tribute to the late Witherfall drummer Adam Sagan who passed before the release was finalized. The Track can be purchased in the US here:

"The Long Walk Home" (December) was a song that Jake and i wrote to bridge the gap between "Nocturnes and Requiems" and the next Album "A Prelude to Sorrow". It is about dealing with loss and being totally alone with your thoughts. We hope you like songs with hundreds of guitar and vocal tracks!"

Joseph Michael


After seeing the Iced Earth/Sanctuary show, I've been playing the crap out of Witherfall.  I had ignored them for a while, but had to come back to it - it's so damn good!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Samsara on March 14, 2018, 08:46:12 AM
I just picked it up. Really cool tune. Very Floyd-like, a bit Queensryche sounding with the electric guitar interludes. Good stuff. I went ahead and purchased the Japanese version of the CD too. Just to have the track on an actual physical disc.

I expect really great things out of Witherfall. I spent the last week combing through Joseph Michael's past works. Good singer and songwriter. I think he's finally come into his own with Witherfall. I was blown away at him doing Sanctuary, and I remember how good he was in White Wizzard. But he's done a bunch of other things (CDBaby.com is your friend).
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on March 14, 2018, 02:20:19 PM
I just picked it up. Really cool tune. Very Floyd-like, a bit Queensryche sounding with the electric guitar interludes. Good stuff. I went ahead and purchased the Japanese version of the CD too. Just to have the track on an actual physical disc.

I expect really great things out of Witherfall. I spent the last week combing through Joseph Michael's past works. Good singer and songwriter. I think he's finally come into his own with Witherfall. I was blown away at him doing Sanctuary, and I remember how good he was in White Wizzard. But he's done a bunch of other things (CDBaby.com is your friend).

Also his website lists a bunch of obscure stuff he has worked on.
https://www.josephmichaelofficial.com/discography
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Samsara on March 14, 2018, 02:38:22 PM
Yep, I picked up the Desert Dragon CD he was on.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Mister Gold on March 15, 2018, 04:37:20 AM
New song is available now.  Looks like I need to download this one when I get home tonight.

https://www.amazon.com/Long-Walk-Home-December/dp/B078RNXWB2/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1520977093&sr=8-3-fkmr0&keywords=witherfall+japan

Quote
On March 13th 2018 while Jake Dreyer and Joseph Michael are out on tour with Iced Earth and Sanctuary, Ward Records (Japan)  Will rel-release Witherfall "Nocturnes and Requiems" Import Orders can be placed here:

The Re-issue will also include a bonus track title "The Long Walk Home" (December) which is a tribute to the late Witherfall drummer Adam Sagan who passed before the release was finalized. The Track can be purchased in the US here:

"The Long Walk Home" (December) was a song that Jake and i wrote to bridge the gap between "Nocturnes and Requiems" and the next Album "A Prelude to Sorrow". It is about dealing with loss and being totally alone with your thoughts. We hope you like songs with hundreds of guitar and vocal tracks!"

Joseph Michael


After seeing the Iced Earth/Sanctuary show, I've been playing the crap out of Witherfall.  I had ignored them for a while, but had to come back to it - it's so damn good!

Yeah, Witherfall have been in my rotation a lot lately too. The new song is quite interesting and I'd probably argue it features Joseph Michael's best lyrics yet.

I just picked it up. Really cool tune. Very Floyd-like, a bit Queensryche sounding with the electric guitar interludes. Good stuff. I went ahead and purchased the Japanese version of the CD too. Just to have the track on an actual physical disc.

I expect really great things out of Witherfall. I spent the last week combing through Joseph Michael's past works. Good singer and songwriter. I think he's finally come into his own with Witherfall. I was blown away at him doing Sanctuary, and I remember how good he was in White Wizzard. But he's done a bunch of other things (CDBaby.com is your friend).

Yeah, that comparison definitely sounds apt. I'd say it feels more like a mix between Crimson Glory's eerier side (i.e. "Lost Reflections" and "Transcendence") and Zach Stevens-era Savatage. Fantastic stuff just the same!

And yeah, Joseph Michael's previous works are pretty neat to listen to. I'm excited to hear what he and Jake do next on A Prelude to Sorrow.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: v_clortho on April 09, 2018, 09:10:18 AM
got this cd the other day. I definitely hear Crimson Glory influence and I'd add Helstar. Great cd.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Mister Gold on April 10, 2018, 08:17:09 PM
got this cd the other day. I definitely hear Crimson Glory influence and I'd add Helstar. Great cd.

Yeah, it's killer stuff. I really can't wait to see where these guys go next with A Prelude to Sorrow.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Zook on April 28, 2018, 07:30:33 PM
I'm listening to this band for the first time, and just with Portrait, it's very Mercyful Fate/King Diamond, but just with better less silly vocals. I'd actually listen to MF/KD if his vocals weren't so goofy.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: TAC on April 28, 2018, 07:36:37 PM
  I'd actually listen to MF/KD if his vocals weren't so goofy.

Totally.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Mister Gold on April 29, 2018, 12:40:27 AM
I'm listening to this band for the first time, and just with Portrait, it's very Mercyful Fate/King Diamond, but just with better less silly vocals. I'd actually listen to MF/KD if his vocals weren't so goofy.

Yeah, as much as I love MF/KD, it's definitely an acquired taste and one that I can only personally go for every now and then. Witherfall is a lot easier to pull up and listen to on a more regular basis thanks to Joseph Michael's vocals being a bit more palatable.

I'm a little surprised it's taken you this long to check Witherfall out though, Zook! I've figured for awhile now that you'd probably really like them. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: TAC on April 29, 2018, 07:04:49 AM
After Portrait though, the KD/MF thing basically disappears for me.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Mister Gold on April 29, 2018, 09:43:41 AM
After Portrait though, the KD/MF thing basically disappears for me.

It's definitely the track where that influence is most prominently featured, for sure. There's a ton of Nevermore, Savatage and Crimson Glory influence from there on out, I think.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Zook on April 29, 2018, 06:40:51 PM
After Portrait though, the KD/MF thing basically disappears for me.

I didn't get very far, but I would agree. I haven't given the album a proper listen yet.

I'm listening to this band for the first time, and just with Portrait, it's very Mercyful Fate/King Diamond, but just with better less silly vocals. I'd actually listen to MF/KD if his vocals weren't so goofy.

Yeah, as much as I love MF/KD, it's definitely an acquired taste and one that I can only personally go for every now and then. Witherfall is a lot easier to pull up and listen to on a more regular basis thanks to Joseph Michael's vocals being a bit more palatable.

I'm a little surprised it's taken you this long to check Witherfall out though, Zook! I've figured for awhile now that you'd probably really like them. :metal

As much as I enjoy Jake on the new Iced Earth, at the same time I haven't listened to it in a while, and I've actual been listening to a lot of podcasts lately and haven't really listened to much music at all.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: TAC on April 29, 2018, 06:42:35 PM
There's a ton of Nevermore, Savatage and Crimson Glory influence from there on out, I think.

I don't care at all for Nevermore of Savatage. But I like the Witherfall album a lot.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Mister Gold on April 29, 2018, 07:26:03 PM
After Portrait though, the KD/MF thing basically disappears for me.

I didn't get very far, but I would agree. I haven't given the album a proper listen yet.

I'm listening to this band for the first time, and just with Portrait, it's very Mercyful Fate/King Diamond, but just with better less silly vocals. I'd actually listen to MF/KD if his vocals weren't so goofy.

Yeah, as much as I love MF/KD, it's definitely an acquired taste and one that I can only personally go for every now and then. Witherfall is a lot easier to pull up and listen to on a more regular basis thanks to Joseph Michael's vocals being a bit more palatable.

I'm a little surprised it's taken you this long to check Witherfall out though, Zook! I've figured for awhile now that you'd probably really like them. :metal

As much as I enjoy Jake on the new Iced Earth, at the same time I haven't listened to it in a while, and I've actual been listening to a lot of podcasts lately and haven't really listened to much music at all.

That's fair. I definitely think we get a much better sample of what Jake can do as a musician and songwriter on Nocturnes & Requiems than on Incorruptible, so I'm eager to hear what you think of Witherfall once you're able to really sit down and give them a thorough listen!

Sacrifice and Nobody Sleeps Here are both especially killer. :metal

I don't care at all for Nevermore of Savatage. But I like the Witherfall album a lot.

Huh, that's interesting!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Samsara on May 01, 2018, 02:19:31 PM
Just announced that Witherfall is opening for Kamelot on their Japan tour. Very cool!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Mister Gold on May 01, 2018, 04:09:18 PM
Just announced that Witherfall is opening for Kamelot on their Japan tour. Very cool!

Yup. I know my folks and I are planning to take a trip to Tokyo around that time of November, but I'm not sure if we'll be there on the exact date of the show.

Reeeeaaaaaalllllllllllllllllllyyyyyy hoping that we will be though, as I'd love to see both Kamelot and especially Witherfall live. And the show is in Shibuya, which coincidentally is the setting of one of my all-time favorite video games (The World Ends With You). So that'd be cool if it works out!

EDIT: It looks like I'm probably going to be in Tokyo the week prior to the concert, so I'm most likely going to miss this. Aww shucks.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on July 13, 2018, 07:41:13 PM
Witherfall has been in the studio a long time. I wonder what the hell is going on.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Mister Gold on July 13, 2018, 08:38:31 PM
Witherfall has been in the studio a long time. I wonder what the hell is going on.

Pretty sure they finally finished a little over a week ago. As for why they were recording for so long, it's because the new album is a double album. There's a looooot of new material coming our way in the fall. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Samsara on July 16, 2018, 02:28:04 PM

Pretty sure they finally finished a little over a week ago. As for why they were recording for so long, it's because the new album is a double album. There's a looooot of new material coming our way in the fall. :metal

I missed that about it being a double album. Wow. That's pretty ambitious for a second recording from the band. Looking forward to it.  :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Cool Chris on July 21, 2018, 04:56:57 PM
Been listening to the debut on Spotify. Pretty good. Will look forward to checking out the follow up.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on August 08, 2018, 10:13:46 AM
Witherfall has been in the studio a long time. I wonder what the hell is going on.

Pretty sure they finally finished a little over a week ago. As for why they were recording for so long, it's because the new album is a double album. There's a looooot of new material coming our way in the fall. :metal

Facebook page says Day 83...
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Year, New News!!!
Post by: Mister Gold on August 30, 2018, 08:53:35 AM
FINALLY GOT SOME NEW NEWS!!!

Quote
WITHERFALL - New Album Announced

US dark melodic metal masters WITHERFALL will release the highly anticipated follow-up to 2017’s “Nocturnes and Requiems” on November 2nd, 2018. The band reveals more details about this stunning new offering:

“A Prelude To Sorrow is a concept record, though not in the sense that most people have come to know the form. Ours is not a story where each song acts as a chapter. The inspiration lays in the supremely dark reality that was the passing of our drummer and one of our best friends Adam Sagan. These songs are raw emotional reflections, composed in the witching hours under the influence of wine and sorrow, while watching and helping our friend fight and ultimately lose his battle with Lymphoma. Nocturnes and Requiems was dedicated to Adam after the fact. A Prelude to Sorrow is written specifically about his and our personal tragedy. Like Nocturnes and Requiems the songs have been arranged to still have the peaks and valleys that any great record should. With “Prelude” these peaks just might be a little steeper and the valleys might be a little deeper, alternating between violence and beauty. The titles initials are an acronym for “Adam Paul Sagan”, He came up with Nocturnes and Requiems so we suppose it is kind of fitting that he also inspired this title. Hope he doesn’t come knocking on our door for royalties. We hope that this will be a fitting requiem for our friend and talented musician.”

Given its tragic background, main songwriters Joseph Michael (vocals, Sanctuary – live) and Jake Dreyer (guitars, Iced Earth) succeeded in perfectly combining the group’s technical proficiency with an appropriate eerie and somber atmosphere, manifesting also in Kristian Wåhlin’s majestic cover painting. For mix and mastering, WITHERFALL again worked with Chris “Zeuss” Harris (Sanctuary, Queensryche, Iced Earth).

An album artwork trailer can be seen below!

The “A Prelude To Sorrow” track list can be viewed here:

WITHERFALL – A Prelude To Sorrow
1. A Prelude To Sorrow (1:21)
2. We Are Nothing (11:15)
3. Moment Of Silence (6:50)
4. Communion Of The Wicked (6:35)
5. Maridian’s Visitation (3:30)
6. Shadows (7:03)
7. Ode To Despair (3:51)
8. The Call (3:52)
9. Vintage (11:06)
10. Epilogue (2:53)
https://www.facebook.com/centurymedia/

And better yet, they also released a short teaser! Holy cow, this sounds amazing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-P18I1viXGA

Also looks like the band ultimately decided not to go the double album route this time around. Still pumped as hell to hear this on November 2nd! :metal

Also, the band mentioned on their updated biography on their official website that Gergo Borlai will apparently be featured somewhere on the album! Curious to see how that turns out, since Steve Bolognese is the main drummer. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on August 30, 2018, 09:37:34 AM
Excited for it. The blue vinyl looks amazing. Going to have to pass on the vinyl this time, and just pre-order the CD once available on amazon. But can't wait.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on August 30, 2018, 09:43:30 AM
Excited for it. The blue vinyl looks amazing. Going to have to pass on the vinyl this time, and just pre-order the CD once available on amazon. But can't wait.

Yeah, I'm seriously considering buying the vinyl. Not one hundred percent sure yet though.

Also- that sample sounds freaking amazing. The production sounds a bit beefier to me than Nocturnes did, which I like. Hope we get a single soon! :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on August 30, 2018, 09:47:15 AM
Excited for it. The blue vinyl looks amazing. Going to have to pass on the vinyl this time, and just pre-order the CD once available on amazon. But can't wait.

Yeah, I'm seriously considering buying the vinyl. Not one hundred percent sure yet though.

Also- that sample sounds freaking amazing. The production sounds a bit beefier to me than Nocturnes did, which I like. Hope we get a single soon! :metal

I want the blue vinyl. But I am trying to limit my vinyl to albums or bands that are lifetime enjoyments for me. Witherfall, being a newer band, hasn't risen to that level. But I certainly want the limited edition digipack, which I assume are the bonus tracks Joseph Michael talked about.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on August 30, 2018, 10:07:20 AM
Excited for it. The blue vinyl looks amazing. Going to have to pass on the vinyl this time, and just pre-order the CD once available on amazon. But can't wait.

Yeah, I'm seriously considering buying the vinyl. Not one hundred percent sure yet though.

Also- that sample sounds freaking amazing. The production sounds a bit beefier to me than Nocturnes did, which I like. Hope we get a single soon! :metal

I want the blue vinyl. But I am trying to limit my vinyl to albums or bands that are lifetime enjoyments for me. Witherfall, being a newer band, hasn't risen to that level. But I certainly want the limited edition digipack, which I assume are the bonus tracks Joseph Michael talked about.

Yeah, probably! Although, one of those tracks might also be for the eventual Japanese edition of the album, since that's why they went in and recorded Long Walk Home (December) last year for the first album.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on August 30, 2018, 11:06:53 AM
BTW, here's the new biography Witherfall released for the new album!

Quote
Witherfall biography 2018

A Prelude to Sorrow

By Chris Dick

Melodic metal masters Witherfall return! After a whirlwind year of triumph and tragedy, California-based Witherfall are poised to storm the hallowed halls of heavy metal with new album, A Prelude to Sorrow. Since the self-release of debut album, Nocturnes and Requiems, in 2017, Witherfall have signed a worldwide deal with Century Media, had their album re-released globally, and played their first-ever show aboard the much-vaunted 70000 Tons of Metal Cruise. But the ascent up and through the ranks was (and still is) bittersweet. The untimely and unfortunate passing of drummer Adam Paul Sagan in 2016 has continued to impact Witherfall profoundly. Whereas Nocturnes and Requiems was a touching dedication to Sagan, A Prelude to Sorrow continues the group’s tribute to and celebration of their fallen brother. To wit, the album title, A Prelude to Sorrow, is derived from Sagan’s initials and the music was inspired and informed by the emotional turmoil primary songwriters Jake Dreyer (guitars) and Joseph Michael (vocals, keyboards) went through. As the album title indicates, A Prelude to Sorrow isn’t big rainbows, cartoon pumpkins, and neon knights.

“Jake and I had already started writing this album when Adam was pretty sick,” says singer and lyricist Joseph Michael. “We knew what was going to happen. A big chunk of this record is about Adam’s death. How fragile life it is. How little time we actually have. Not just people who die from cancer, but all of us. It’s a bit of an old cliché about how many summers we have left. So, the mood on A Prelude to Sorrow is pretty dark and somber.”

“A Prelude to Sorrow just appeared to fall right in place,” adds guitarist Jake Dreyer. “The idea of having an acronym for Adam’s full name seemed to be somewhat poetic considering he named Nocturnes and Requiems. Sort of a reoccurring theme. There was really no way of denying that this record was not going to end up being about Adam.”

Formed in 2013, Witherfall’s start was slow but auspicious. Dreyer and Michael had spent time together in heavy metallers White Wizzard—appearing on The Devils Cut album—so the pair already had a working relationship. They knew one another personally and artistically. They understood their strengths. And what they wanted out of a new heavy metal project. The lineup widened with the addition of Sagan, who was playing drums in Dreyer’s eponymous solo project, and bass virtuoso Anthony Crawford (Alan Holdsworth). Together, the group headed to The Bunker in Phoenix, Arizona to track Nocturnes and Requiems. The result not only impressed heavy metal fans, but also shattered DIY expectations. Big, powerful production? Check. The reputation and experience of a super producer—namely, Chris ‘Zeuss’ Harris (Rob Zombie, Queensrÿche)—to mix and master? Check. And a famous cover artist—none other than Kristian Wåhlin (Tiamat, Emperor, King Diamond)—to do custom work? Also check. Without a label behind them, Witherfall had done it all.

“Just making A Prelude to Sorrow was a true testament to how much sacrifice and commitment goes into Witherfall,” says Dreyer. “We spent months in the studio getting everything right, working almost 20-hour days to get the ideas in our head delivered and executed properly.”

“We don’t skimp on anything regarding quality,” Michael continues. “Even if it means we’re going to be living in the gutter. We definitely put everything we have into Witherfall.”

Written over a two-year span, A Prelude to Sorrow is Witherfall’s next magnum opus. Described as a continuation of Nocturnes and Requiems—with the opposite ends of Pantera and Queen thrown in for good measure—the group spared, as always, no expense. Dreyer and Michael spent ages writing and arranging. While early on it was apparent the duo had a unique writing chemistry, on A Prelude to Sorrow their strengths were magnified. When one starts a riff, the other finishes it. When a vocal melody hits home, the other supports it. And when a full song comes together, there’s no better moment for the twosome. Songs like “Moment of Silence,” “Ode to Despair,” and “Vintage” aren’t just the products of Witherfall’s long songwriting nights and infinite wells of creativity, they’re the engines of a new wave of heavy metal.

“The songwriting is always me and Jake,” says Michael. “We were on the same team. We don’t let anyone else into the sessions. That’s how we started in the beginning and that’s how it is now, with the new record. That’s what made us go to these crazy lengths to get the first record out. As far as the writing sessions themselves, we’re all over the place. Our schedules are so varied, but we usually wake up around 2 p.m., grab coffee and whatnot, and start writing around 5 p.m. We take a break around midnight, start drinking wine, and close out the sessions between 5 or 7 a.m.”

“A Prelude to Sorrow was definitely a different writing experience over Nocturnes and Requiems,” Dreyer acknowledges. “Nocturnes was written very quickly. A Prelude to Sorrow was spread out over two years. Joseph and I never settle for anything that we do not like. Our chemistry worked like this: we had an idea and an arrangement for a song that ended up becoming ‘Communion of the Wicked.’ We spent many months on the song but then one extremely late night session we just both looked at each other and knew it was not working in its current form. We started from scratch and out came the composition that is on the record.”

A Prelude to Sorrow was recorded over a 13-week period with engineer JJ Crews at Boogie Tracks Recording Studio in Panama City, Florida. The outfit—rounded out by Crawford, session drummers Steve Bolognese (ex-Into Eternity) and Gergo Borlai (Al Di Meola), and session guitarist Fili Bibiano—took their time to ensure that the follow up to Nocturnes and Requiems wasn’t just perfect but significantly a level above. The production is deeper, wider, and warmer. The mix and master jobs by returning hotshot Chris ‘Zeuss’ Harris affords Witherfall clarity, detail, and balance as they roll deftly through their heavily dramatic metal. Overall, the recording, mixing, and mastering took 100 days to complete. Songs like “Shadows,” “We Are Nothing” and “Maridians Visitation” prove that Witherfall pull no punches, possess all-in attitude, and are ready for heavy metal’s highest honor, to sit atop the heap with crown and throne.

“Zeuss is a true professional that we trust shares the vision with how we need Witherfall records to sound, and be delivered,” Dreyer says. “Zeuss understands the passion and commitment we have to each element of a song.”

“There was nothing fun about recording this record,” admits Michael. “It was an exercise in manic and fanatical discipline paired with a drastic sense of duty to get these compositions into audible form. We had Filmmaker Don Adams with us to capture the madness. He kept an unflinching eye on us as we descended into madness. We are lucky we made it to the other side of this thing.”

As with Nocturnes and Requiems so too A Prelude to Sorrow—even cover artist Kristian Wåhlin is reprising his role. Just on a greater scale. There are still many hills yet for Witherfall to climb, audiences to win over, classic songs to write, and albums to release. And Witherfall will get there. Their very DNA is coded for success. For now, however, the guitarist-vocalist dyad are focused on bringing A Prelude to Sorrow to the masses, even if it means one song at a time, one video at a time, or one show at a time. And if Nocturnes and Requiems was bestowed many an accolade—Metal Injection said the songwriting exhibited “masterclass” qualities, while Rock Hard unfurled a score of 8.5/10—then A Prelude to Sorrow will surely award Witherfall many more as they expound their version of melodic metal and broaden their reach. A new wave of heavy metal is upon us and Witherfall are leading the charge!
https://www.witherfall.com/bio
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: 0u81234 on September 02, 2018, 01:35:45 AM
Two, 11 min songs?  Oh yes. I can tell that it sounds like the record is going to be very emotionally driven. Saw on FB first song is released on the 7th.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on September 02, 2018, 09:19:54 AM
Two, 11 min songs?  Oh yes. I can tell that it sounds like the record is going to be very emotionally driven. Saw on FB first song is released on the 7th.

Yeah, I remember Jake and Joseph talking about one of those two songs (Vintage) in an interview they did back in February. I could be remembering it wrong, but I think they said something along the lines of it being one of their favorite songs they've written for the band (alongside Nobody Sleeps Here and Sacrifice) and that it's supposed to be really crazy. I'm gonna double check that interview though to make sure though.

Also, I'm really digging that "Queen meets Pantera" description that the new official bio offered for A Prelude to Sorrow. That's a rather wild and drastic combination of sounds and I'm interested in seeing how that direction will help evolve the band's own distinctive sound. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on September 02, 2018, 09:36:52 AM
Can't wait for this album. Hopefully a track drops soon.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on September 02, 2018, 09:40:15 AM
Can't wait for this album. Hopefully a track drops soon.

We're getting a track on Friday, I think. September 7th. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on September 07, 2018, 07:19:47 AM
Okay, first single off the new album released! It's "Ode to Despair"! :metal

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_LUai2NYMQ

Pretty great song, though interestingly it's on the shorter side compared to previous songs from the band on the first album. It'd be awesome if this song somehow manages to make a bit of a splash on rock/metal airwaves or something.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Grappler on September 07, 2018, 07:30:10 AM
Awesome!  I like that they wrote a short, concise song that still has their sound, with just a little widdly-widdly in the guitars, but doesn't go all-out crazy. 

Looking forward the album!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on September 07, 2018, 07:54:39 AM
Awesome!  I like that they wrote a short, concise song that still has their sound, with just a little widdly-widdly in the guitars, but doesn't go all-out crazy. 

Looking forward the album!

Yeah, there seems to be two other shorter songs on the album like Ode to Despair (Maridian's Visitation and The Call), so it'll be interesting to see if one of them is more of a ballad like The Great Awakening or something quick and heavy.

Interestingly enough, the chorus reminds me a lot of Dio on the Dehumanizer album. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on September 07, 2018, 09:43:07 AM
Dig it! Different, but I like it.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on September 08, 2018, 06:15:29 AM
Dig it! Different, but I like it.

Yeah, putting aside the obvious fact that this song is significantly more concise than the songs on the first album, that chorus definitely has a bit of a new splash to it. Very Dehumanizer-era Sabbath imo.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on September 09, 2018, 02:19:00 PM
Dig it! Different, but I like it.

Yeah, putting aside the obvious fact that this song is significantly more concise than the songs on the first album, that chorus definitely has a bit of a new splash to it. Very Dehumanizer-era Sabbath imo.

Someone told me Joseph let them hear two songs at ProgPower and they are significantly different than Nocturnes
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on September 10, 2018, 05:27:13 AM
Someone told me Joseph let them hear two songs at ProgPower and they are significantly different than Nocturnes

I can definitely believe it. Joseph and Jake have both mentioned a few times over the past year that their biggest influence musically is Queen and you can really start to hear that in A Long Walk Home (December). Between that and the updated bio on their website mentioning that the new album is "a continuation of Nocturnes with added elements of Pantera and Queen," I suspect A Prelude to Sorrow is going to be a very interesting evolution for Witherfall.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on September 10, 2018, 08:42:47 AM

Someone told me Joseph let them hear two songs at ProgPower and they are significantly different than Nocturnes

Cool. I am looking forward to hearing it all.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on September 25, 2018, 08:11:18 AM
So the next single off A Prelude to Sorrow is going to be Moment of Silence. Comes out on October 5th, but we got a brief 20 second preview of the song on YouTube now!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZw1145b8Lo

So yeah- those reports of the new stuff sounding different were on the money. The first part reminds me a bit of Ripper-era Iced Earth or especially Charred Walls of the Damned (it's the combination of Joseph's vocals and the heavy use of blast beats). Yet I also kind of get a bit of a Savatage vibe from the vocal melody? Like, Joseph isn't hitting the same sorts of notes that Jon Oliva or Zac Stevens would, but there's something about that melody that feels... theatrical?

Whatever it is, this song definitely seems to be offering further new ground for the band. I'm excited to hear more soon! :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Grappler on September 25, 2018, 08:30:43 AM
Wow, he sounds a lot like Ripper Owens on that clip.   Blast beats!   :metal :metal   
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on September 25, 2018, 08:34:58 AM
Wow, he sounds a lot like Ripper Owens on that clip.   Blast beats!   :metal :metal

Yup. Definitely seems like it'll be a heavy song. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Witherfall_Joesph_Jake on October 03, 2018, 05:23:14 PM
Hey everyone, Jake and Joseph of Witherfall here, thanks to all of you for being active on this board. If anyone has any questions at all feel free to ask us. "Moment of Silence" will be released Friday.
-JD
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on October 04, 2018, 10:03:44 AM
Hey everyone, Jake and Joseph of Witherfall here, thanks to all of you for being active on this board. If anyone has any questions at all feel free to ask us. "Moment of Silence" will be released Friday.
-JD

Hey Jake (and Joseph), thanks for signing-on here. Looking forward to the record!  :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Grappler on October 04, 2018, 10:52:47 AM
Glad to have you guys around!  The new songs have been awesome to hear so far. 

And I know it's Witherfall time with the new album coming out, but is there any chance of further music from Sanctuary? 
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Witherfall_Joesph_Jake on October 04, 2018, 01:27:56 PM
Glad to have you guys around!  The new songs have been awesome to hear so far. 

And I know it's Witherfall time with the new album coming out, but is there any chance of further music from Sanctuary?

Sanctuary is working on new material. I fly up to Seattle next week. Hope you guys like the song tomorrow. It's a roller coaster!

  :metal

Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on October 04, 2018, 02:08:56 PM
Looking forward to it! :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on October 05, 2018, 08:42:04 AM
Hey everyone, Jake and Joseph of Witherfall here, thanks to all of you for being active on this board. If anyone has any questions at all feel free to ask us. "Moment of Silence" will be released Friday.
-JD

Holy moly, this is a turn of events I did not see coming! It's so great to have you guys here. :metal I actually was wondering- your new site bio mentioned that Gergo Borlai is featured on the album. Are you able to say at the moment what song(s) he's featured on?

And yeah, to follow up Jake's comment up above, the band just released the music video for Moment of Silence!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pAMWcSY1jwI

I'm LOVING this song. I'm hearing a ton of Ripper-era Iced Earth, King Diamond, Nevermore and even Individual Thought Patterns-era Death in here and I'm losing my mind over that combination of sounds. :hefdaddy

Sanctuary is working on new material. I fly up to Seattle next week. Hope you guys like the song tomorrow. It's a roller coaster!

  :metal

That's awesome news! And yeah, man, this new song is fantastic. You guys are crushing it with this new album so far. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on October 05, 2018, 01:13:34 PM
Awesome tune! :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: bl5150 on October 05, 2018, 08:06:28 PM
Awesome tune! :metal

I really like it too but............

If I have to listen to an album chock full of low end from the 8 string guitar then I know I am going to struggle a bit.  I don't mind how JP uses it (not all the time) so ,even though I like this new track from Witherfall, I just know my ears will struggle if the whole album is like that.

On the positive side - there's a degree of originality and songwriting care/thought that you don't see very often these days and the combo of prog/classic/thrash/ with a nice dark atmosphere works great. 

I loved the first two tracks on the debut Witherfall but just "liked" the rest.  Looking forward to hearing the new album.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on October 05, 2018, 08:07:39 PM

I really like it too but............

If I have to listen to an album chock full of low end from the 8 string guitar then I know I am going to struggle a bit.

Yeah, that's fair.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on October 06, 2018, 07:39:38 AM
I really like it too but............

If I have to listen to an album chock full of low end from the 8 string guitar then I know I am going to struggle a bit.  I don't mind how JP uses it (not all the time) so ,even though I like this new track from Witherfall, I just know my ears will struggle if the whole album is like that.

On the positive side - there's a degree of originality and songwriting care/thought that you don't see very often these days and the combo of prog/classic/thrash/ with a nice dark atmosphere works great. 

I loved the first two tracks on the debut Witherfall but just "liked" the rest.  Looking forward to hearing the new album.

That's totally understandable. Did you ever hear their bonus track single (The Long Walk Home (December)) that came out back in the spring? It's a far mellower tune than most of the other existing Witherfall songs.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: bl5150 on October 06, 2018, 09:24:40 AM
I really like it too but............

If I have to listen to an album chock full of low end from the 8 string guitar then I know I am going to struggle a bit.  I don't mind how JP uses it (not all the time) so ,even though I like this new track from Witherfall, I just know my ears will struggle if the whole album is like that.

On the positive side - there's a degree of originality and songwriting care/thought that you don't see very often these days and the combo of prog/classic/thrash/ with a nice dark atmosphere works great. 

I loved the first two tracks on the debut Witherfall but just "liked" the rest.  Looking forward to hearing the new album.

That's totally understandable. Did you ever hear their bonus track single (The Long Walk Home (December)) that came out back in the spring? It's a far mellower tune than most of the other existing Witherfall songs.

Just to be clear I like my music heavy - just don't love the 8 string ( and/or djenty stuff) as a rule. I struggle when a guitar starts having an identity crisis about whether it might identify as a bass  :biggrin:  I hadn't heard the bonus track but yeah.......nice early Crimson Glory vibe.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on October 06, 2018, 12:40:30 PM
Awesome tune! :metal

I really like it too but............

If I have to listen to an album chock full of low end from the 8 string guitar then I know I am going to struggle a bit.  I don't mind how JP uses it (not all the time) so ,even though I like this new track from Witherfall, I just know my ears will struggle if the whole album is like that.

On the positive side - there's a degree of originality and songwriting care/thought that you don't see very often these days and the combo of prog/classic/thrash/ with a nice dark atmosphere works great. 

I loved the first two tracks on the debut Witherfall but just "liked" the rest.  Looking forward to hearing the new album.


No Witherfall song is like any other, Moment of Silence sounds nothing Like Ode To Despair.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on October 06, 2018, 05:45:30 PM
Just to be clear I like my music heavy - just don't love the 8 string ( and/or djenty stuff) as a rule. I struggle when a guitar starts having an identity crisis about whether it might identify as a bass  :biggrin:  I hadn't heard the bonus track but yeah.......nice early Crimson Glory vibe.

To be fair, I'm pretty sure Jake and Fili have both only used 6 and 7 string guitars in Witherfall to date (Not 100% sure on that though).

And yeah, The Long Walk Home is a great song. I completely agree with you on the Crimson Glory comparison, though the second half also reminds me a lot of Zak Stevens-era Savatage with the overlapping vocal melodies.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: bl5150 on October 06, 2018, 07:15:29 PM
7 strings are starting to sound like 8 strings........I am becoming even less tolerant.  :lol   It's a fogey thing probably - I grew up listening to and playing 6 string  (The Vai Universe was a novelty there for a while though) and my ears have never really adjusted to enjoying that low B (or lower) sound.  But then I like The Enemy Inside etc....so it's not a hard rule.   I do think JP does a good job of not overusing the 7 string.


Anyway.......I think I am going to like the new Witherfall based on what I have heard so far .    Bonus marks to any band these days that has their own sound and Witherfall have achieved that.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on October 08, 2018, 07:35:23 AM
7 strings are starting to sound like 8 strings........I am becoming even less tolerant.  :lol   It's a fogey thing probably - I grew up listening to and playing 6 string  (The Vai Universe was a novelty there for a while though) and my ears have never really adjusted to enjoying that low B (or lower) sound.  But then I like The Enemy Inside etc....so it's not a hard rule.   I do think JP does a good job of not overusing the 7 string.


Anyway.......I think I am going to like the new Witherfall based on what I have heard so far .    Bonus marks to any band these days that has their own sound and Witherfall have achieved that.

That's fair, I suppose. Though I'm not sure we'll see Witherfall veer away from the seven string guitar too often, as it seems to be a key part to the band's sound and writing style.

That said, I agree that Witherfall have definitely forged their own sound. It kind of reminds me of Haken, in that you can certainly hear the various influences the band has, but the way they present it is all their own. It makes me excited to hear how they'll continue to evolve their voice over time. :tup
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on October 09, 2018, 02:49:02 PM
Was finally able to pre-order the CD on Amazon. Up until today, all I saw was the import for 25 bucks. But the regular CD is now available, so I bought it. Looking forward to the new record.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on October 09, 2018, 02:53:50 PM
Was finally able to pre-order the CD on Amazon. Up until today, all I saw was the import for 25 bucks. But the regular CD is now available, so I bought it. Looking forward to the new record.

Oh thanks for the heads up, Sam. I did the same thing last week. $25?? WUT?

And the CD is only $2 more than the digital. CD preordered! :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Grappler on October 10, 2018, 10:53:08 AM
The new song kicks ass!  I'm all for Witherfall writing some super heavy stuff like Moment of Silence. 

Also very cool to see that Sanctuary is moving forward with some new music as well.  Despite losing Warrel, I'm really looking forward to how things could sound with Joseph.  That was such an awesome concert last February.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on October 18, 2018, 11:50:23 PM
The new song kicks ass!  I'm all for Witherfall writing some super heavy stuff like Moment of Silence. 

Also very cool to see that Sanctuary is moving forward with some new music as well.  Despite losing Warrel, I'm really looking forward to how things could sound with Joseph.  That was such an awesome concert last February.

Speaking new songs, "Shadows" just hit iTunes earlier... and I think I may just have a new favorite song from the band. This song is right up there with Nobody Sleeps Here and Sacrifice IMO. That minute long instrumental outro is siiiiick! :metal :hefdaddy

Can't wait to hear the rest of the album when it comes out!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on October 22, 2018, 01:53:09 PM
Wow. I got my media download of the record a few minutes ago, and currently playing it for the first time. It has been a minute since I played the debut, but first feeling, from "We Are Nothing" (just finished the first movement of the song, and now into the second), my Lord, its everything we love about this band on steroids.

I'll have more commentary after it is done. But this second movement in We Are Nothing is just pure gold.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on October 22, 2018, 01:54:31 PM
Wow. I got my media download of the record a few minutes ago, and currently playing it for the first time. It has been a minute since I played the debut, but first feeling, from "We Are Nothing" (just finished the first movement of the song, and now into the second), my Lord, its everything we love about this band on steroids.

I'll have more commentary after it is done. But this second movement in We Are Nothing is just pure gold.

You Lucky Bastard! Who are you writing for?
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on October 22, 2018, 01:56:30 PM
Been a freelancer for years. I probably won't review this one, just because I am a pretty big fan of the band, and I want to be really objective if I write. Not sure I can be on this one. #fanboy  :lol

p.s. Just so Jake and Joseph know (since they monitor this thread), had the album on pre-order for awhile on Amazon. So no lost sale here. Most likely just a lot of gushing over your new record.  :lol
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on October 22, 2018, 02:23:20 PM
Wow. I got my media download of the record a few minutes ago, and currently playing it for the first time. It has been a minute since I played the debut, but first feeling, from "We Are Nothing" (just finished the first movement of the song, and now into the second), my Lord, its everything we love about this band on steroids.

I'll have more commentary after it is done. But this second movement in We Are Nothing is just pure gold.

Needless to say, I'm quite envious at the moment! :lol

I can't wait to hear your thoughts on the rest of the album, man. I've been blasting "Shadows" over and over again since that song hit iTunes on Friday and I'm struggling to imagine how anything else could top that beast of a song on the album- but supposedly "Vintage" at least does that and I have a feeling "We Are Nothing" will probably go toe-to-toe with it too.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on October 22, 2018, 02:30:59 PM
I'm just got through Ode to Despair. There is just so much going on, I am going to need to listen again. But my God does Jake go to a new level in terms of speed, technicality, and feel. Suffice it to say, if you dig the first record, you'll love this one.

More later. I am sure a few other media people got the same download as me, so hopefully they will chime in.

The QR fan in me got an absolute PL vibe to this. But more in mood, as opposed to playing style.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on October 22, 2018, 02:37:44 PM
I'm just got through Ode to Despair. There is just so much going on, I am going to need to listen again. But my God does Jake go to a new level in terms of speed, technicality, and feel. Suffice it to say, if you dig the first record, you'll love this one.

More later. I am sure a few other media people got the same download as me, so hopefully they will chime in.

The QR fan in me got an absolute PL vibe to this. But more in mood, as opposed to playing style.

Now that is some high praise IMO and it makes a lot of sense, considering how personal an album A Prelude to Sorrow has to be for the band. I love the atmosphere on Promised Land. :hefdaddy

Be sure to let me know what you think of Vintage when you finish listening to the record! :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on October 22, 2018, 02:39:19 PM
It has that atmosphere for sure. And Vintage is amazing. I still have three minutes left of that song, and I am blown away. Tons of emotion. You feel each word Joseph sings....and a note in the stratosphere, leading into a killer emotional solo by Jake.

 :metal :metal :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on October 22, 2018, 02:46:39 PM
MG - Vintage will be your favorite Witherfall song. I am totally blown away. What an ending. The Epilogue is just a two minute piece that has a distinctly Pink Floyd Wish You Were Here vibe to close it out...

GREAT stuff. Folks, you gotta check this record out when it is streaming. Hell, just buy it. Damn. More later. On to listen 2!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on October 22, 2018, 02:50:42 PM
It has that atmosphere for sure. And Vintage is amazing. I still have three minutes left of that song, and I am blown away. Tons of emotion. You feel each word Joseph sings....and a note in the stratosphere, leading into a killer emotional solo by Jake.

 :metal :metal :metal

Niiiiice. That description reminds me of one of my favorite parts in "Shadows"- the main guitar solo in that song is also launched off by an impressive high note from Joseph... and I noticed on repeat listens that Joseph starts singing along over the final parts of the solo and seems to kinda "take over" at the end of the solo with the big high note payoff. It's such a badass and brilliantly executed moment. And of course I can't stop grinning whenever I get to that minute long outro. Such a satisfying conclusion to that song.

Any particular highlights you'd want to name on this first listen?

MG - Vintage will be your favorite Witherfall song. I am totally blown away. What an ending. The Epilogue is just a two minute piece that has a distinctly Pink Floyd Wish You Were Here vibe to close it out...

GREAT stuff. Folks, you gotta check this record out when it is streaming. Hell, just buy it. Damn. More later. On to listen 2!

Goddamn that's some seriously hype inducing stuff to read! :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on October 22, 2018, 02:58:54 PM
I'm not a musician, just a hack on guitar who hasn't picked up one in 12 years, and an old 90s rock cover song singer. So I wish I could be technical about all this stuff, but I can't. I'm just a fan that likes what he hears.

What I can say is the elements that really make up this band -- the classical meets thrash, meets Floyd -- its all in there like the first record. Just a touch more polished (meaning that in a good way), absolutely darker, and just a lot to digest.

Jake's solo around the 5:40 mark in We Are Nothing...I mean...his playing is so emotive. It is crazy how a band like this works. I hear some Awake era DT in the guitar playing too. Some DeGarmo as well, and obviously Gilmour, but its all Jake. Its really cool when a guy can channel all this music we all grew up with and put forth something that harkens back to all of it, but is distinctly unique. Its a fine balance, and he nails it.

MG - go buy that blue vinyl. Its expensive, but after hearing this, I may do it myself.  :lol
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on October 22, 2018, 03:16:42 PM
I'm not a musician, just a hack on guitar who hasn't picked up one in 12 years, and an old 90s rock cover song singer. So I wish I could be technical about all this stuff, but I can't. I'm just a fan that likes what he hears.

I'm basically on the same boat. I used to play guitar, piano and trumpet at different points in my life growing up, but I've hardly touched a musical instrument for years. I just love progressive music and great metal bands. :tup

Quote
What I can say is the elements that really make up this band -- the classical meets thrash, meets Floyd -- its all in there like the first record. Just a touch more polished (meaning that in a good way), absolutely darker, and just a lot to digest.

Jake's solo around the 5:40 mark in We Are Nothing...I mean...his playing is so emotive. It is crazy how a band like this works. I hear some Awake era DT in the guitar playing too. Some DeGarmo as well, and obviously Gilmour, but its all Jake. Its really cool when a guy can channel all this music we all grew up with and put forth something that harkens back to all of it, but is distinctly unique. Its a fine balance, and he nails it.

Jake is definitely an incredible guitarist. And you're spot-on, he's incredibly gifted at channeling the spirit of so many of my favorite guitarists but it's all done in a way that still feels distinctly his own.

Do you have any particular thoughts on Joseph's performance on the album compared to the first?

Quote
MG - go buy that blue vinyl. Its expensive, but after hearing this, I may do it myself.  :lol

I plan to! I may have to wait a week or two to order the Ultimate Bundle w/ the Blue Vinyl though, since I just landed my first real gig as a videomaker and I need to pick up a new lens for my camera that can take in more light since the environment I'll be working in is very "low light." Exciting times to be sure! :metal

For starters though, I've long since preordered the album on iTunes. But I'm definitely buying the limited edition Shadows vinyl too and will be doing it soon... ish. :lol
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on October 22, 2018, 03:17:29 PM
I'm not a musician, just a hack on guitar who hasn't picked up one in 12 years, and an old 90s rock cover song singer. So I wish I could be technical about all this stuff, but I can't. I'm just a fan that likes what he hears.

What I can say is the elements that really make up this band -- the classical meets thrash, meets Floyd -- its all in there like the first record. Just a touch more polished (meaning that in a good way), absolutely darker, and just a lot to digest.

Jake's solo around the 5:40 mark in We Are Nothing...I mean...his playing is so emotive. It is crazy how a band like this works. I hear some Awake era DT in the guitar playing too. Some DeGarmo as well, and obviously Gilmour, but its all Jake. Its really cool when a guy can channel all this music we all grew up with and put forth something that harkens back to all of it, but is distinctly unique. Its a fine balance, and he nails it.

MG - go buy that blue vinyl. Its expensive, but after hearing this, I may do it myself.  :lol

 Jake and Joseph talked a lot about their different influences and Those you mentioned are a few of them
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on October 22, 2018, 03:21:42 PM


Do you have any particular thoughts on Joseph's performance on the album compared to the first?

It has been a bit since I listened to the first one. The Joseph in my head right now is his performance with Sanctuary. And there are a couple moments where I think Warrel is smiling. But I'd have to go back to the first record and compare. I'm just gonna listen to this one for a bit and let it sink in.

Quote
I plan to! I may have to wait a week or two to order the Ultimate Bundle w/ the Blue Vinyl though, since I just landed my first real gig as a videomaker and I need to pick up a new lens for my camera that can take in more light since the environment I'll be working in is very "low light." Exciting times to be sure! :metal

Congrats man!


 Jake and Joseph talked a lot about their different influences and Those you mentioned are a few of them

That's cool. I haven't read many interviews they've done. I was just guessing based on what I have heard. At least my ears can still pick things up.  :lol
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on October 22, 2018, 03:26:25 PM


Do you have any particular thoughts on Joseph's performance on the album compared to the first?

It has been a bit since I listened to the first one. The Joseph in my head right now is his performance with Sanctuary. And there are a couple moments where I think Warrel is smiling. But I'd have to go back to the first record and compare. I'm just gonna listen to this one for a bit and let it sink in.

Quote
I plan to! I may have to wait a week or two to order the Ultimate Bundle w/ the Blue Vinyl though, since I just landed my first real gig as a videomaker and I need to pick up a new lens for my camera that can take in more light since the environment I'll be working in is very "low light." Exciting times to be sure! :metal

Congrats man!


 Jake and Joseph talked a lot about their different influences and Those you mentioned are a few of them

That's cool. I haven't read many interviews they've done. I was just guessing based on what I have heard. At least my ears can still pick things up.  :lol
It seems from the interviews they see themselves as a modern day Lennon/McCartney or May/Mercury in their writing style. No rules just two musicians in a room writing songs.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Grappler on October 22, 2018, 07:24:09 PM
Reading all that just got me excited to hear the album!  I'm in the same boat - I've listened to the first album a handful of times this year and just can't get the image of seeing Joseph singing for Sanctuary out of my head.  That show was so incredible and hearing him do my favorite tunes more than justice in the wake of losing Warrel was so great and helpful in moving past Warrel's death - it really did take the sorrow out of it and turned it into a celebration, making it ok to listen to those albums again without feeling sad.

So I'll have to remember to try and put that out of my mind when I listen to Witherfall going forward.  It's hard to put on the album now, hear some of it and some vocals, and then want to turn it off and go back to Sanctuary.   :)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: 0u81234 on October 22, 2018, 08:43:59 PM


Do you have any particular thoughts on Joseph's performance on the album compared to the first?

It has been a bit since I listened to the first one. The Joseph in my head right now is his performance with Sanctuary. And there are a couple moments where I think Warrel is smiling. But I'd have to go back to the first record and compare. I'm just gonna listen to this one for a bit and let it sink in.

Quote
I plan to! I may have to wait a week or two to order the Ultimate Bundle w/ the Blue Vinyl though, since I just landed my first real gig as a videomaker and I need to pick up a new lens for my camera that can take in more light since the environment I'll be working in is very "low light." Exciting times to be sure! :metal

Congrats man!


 Jake and Joseph talked a lot about their different influences and Those you mentioned are a few of them

That's cool. I haven't read many interviews they've done. I was just guessing based on what I have heard. At least my ears can still pick things up.  :lol




After reading these two reviews Witherfall posted on FB.  I am really interested in hearing “Vintage”. A couple of reviewers have said they cried during it. They gave the album 9.5/10 and a 9.8/10

https://metalwani.com/2018/10/review-witherfall-a-prelude-to-sorrow.html


https://manofmuchmetal.com/2018/10/20/witherfall-a-prelude-to-sorrow-album-review/?fbclid=IwAR27o5TTpF7nqzeOamSkyB2isq4PR1OQ817O9zIbTTToB57i-2l7m2Jl7eo

Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on October 23, 2018, 08:40:53 AM
Vintage is absolutely amazing. Best song the record to me. A complete emotional roller coaster.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on October 23, 2018, 09:49:02 AM
Vintage is absolutely amazing. Best song the record to me. A complete emotional roller coaster.

Is there any particular band or song you'd point to as an example of what Vintage sounds like? I know one of the two reviews linked above described Vintage as resembling classic Iced Earth ballads.

What other highlights are on the album for you?
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on October 23, 2018, 11:13:42 AM
I can certainly hear why they think that. The beginning of Vintage immediately reminded me of the beginning of "One" by Metallica, honestly (minus the gunshots). Then I guess the first verse has a whiff of an Iced Earth style ballad to it, sure. But I tend to not like IE ballads, and I very much like this song by Witherfall a great deal.

But to be honest, its really hard to capture it in words and not do the song a disservice. It is an epic of grand proportions that could be the finest piece Witherfall has done to date.  IMO, its the most heartfelt one I've heard from them, knowing a bit of the back story behind the record. As the second movement of the song kicks in about the 4 minute mark with a pounding rhythm, bleeding into that high note and solo I mentioned yesterday, it really goes to another level. It has that feel of One by Metallica in that part, mixed with Dream Theater, and then I heard some Death Angel. Just real thrashy and aggressive, and then goes into a slower, haunting, melodic part that is probably my favorite movement of the song, where Joseph sings "travel on my friend. Your memory will never die..."   ... "This is not the end. Your music remains alive, the cadence of life..." something, something. "Your story forever told.." ... "You'll always be by my side when I feel like I can't go on anymore." And then another solo by Jake that just heightens all the emotion. He plays incredibly fast, but builds up to it. Great emotional lead-in to the speed part of the solo.

p.s. those lyrics lines are just what I caught, there are lines between some of those passages I missed.

p.p.s. another highlight for me is the solo around the 5:41 mark of We Are Nothing. It reminds me of something DeGarmo and Wilton would do back in the day (as a trade off, although here it is all Jake, I am assuming). It has that more melodic feel, and then has the more aggressive feel. And yes, I do compare stuff to DeGarmo a lot, as the guy is still my favorite songwriter and one of my favorite players. So this is all high praise as far as I am concerned.

MG - this will be your favorite Witherfall song.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on October 23, 2018, 01:23:55 PM
I can certainly hear why they think that. The beginning of Vintage immediately reminded me of the beginning of "One" by Metallica, honestly (minus the gunshots). Then I guess the first verse has a whiff of an Iced Earth style ballad to it, sure. But I tend to not like IE ballads, and I very much like this song by Witherfall a great deal.

But to be honest, its really hard to capture it in words and not do the song a disservice. It is an epic of grand proportions that could be the finest piece Witherfall has done to date.  IMO, its the most heartfelt one I've heard from them, knowing a bit of the back story behind the record. As the second movement of the song kicks in about the 4 minute mark with a pounding rhythm, bleeding into that high note and solo I mentioned yesterday, it really goes to another level. It has that feel of One by Metallica in that part, mixed with Dream Theater, and then I heard some Death Angel. Just real thrashy and aggressive, and then goes into a slower, haunting, melodic part that is probably my favorite movement of the song, where Joseph sings "travel on my friend. Your memory will never die..."   ... "This is not the end. Your music remains alive, the cadence of life..." something, something. "Your story forever told.." ... "You'll always be by my side when I feel like I can't go on anymore." And then another solo by Jake that just heightens all the emotion. He plays incredibly fast, but builds up to it. Great emotional lead-in to the speed part of the solo.

p.s. those lyrics lines are just what I caught, there are lines between some of those passages I missed.

p.p.s. another highlight for me is the solo around the 5:41 mark of We Are Nothing. It reminds me of something DeGarmo and Wilton would do back in the day (as a trade off, although here it is all Jake, I am assuming). It has that more melodic feel, and then has the more aggressive feel. And yes, I do compare stuff to DeGarmo a lot, as the guy is still my favorite songwriter and one of my favorite players. So this is all high praise as far as I am concerned.

MG - this will be your favorite Witherfall song.

Whoah... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TtFweyp6Qqs
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 01, 2018, 11:15:45 PM
After almost two years of waiting, I'm happy to say I'm now finishing my first listen to Witherfall's second album! :metal

My first impressions:
- A Prelude to Sorrow shows a staggering growth from the first album. The same various musical influences we've all compared the band are obviously all still there, but you can really tell Jake and Joseph are solidifying their own unique "Witherfall" voice from those influences here.
- We Are Nothing is insane. The album opens with cannons roaring and I freaking love it. It's like Sacrifice on steroids meets Pink Floyd's Dogs and some hints of Control Denied thrown in for good measure.
- Communion of the Wicked is a fun gem that I haven't seen too many reviews point out yet. Might be my single favorite chorus on the whole album and there's some guitar parts on that song that sound like Awake-era Petrucci.
- Vintage... Not sure yet if it's my absolute favorite Witherfall song yet or not, but it's absolutely up there already and I think it's safe to say this one's going to be a fan favorite for years to come. It's like if Handful of Rain-era Savatage wrote Metallica's "One" but Crimson Glory's Midnight was on vocals instead of Zak Stevens.

Incredible album and Samsara's right- there's a ton to unpack with this monster of an album. Jake and Joseph just hit a homerun with this baby. :hefdaddy
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: 0u81234 on November 02, 2018, 02:05:52 AM
“We Are Nothing” and “Vintage”... holy fuck.  The book end effect of those is insane. What a story the “A Prelude to Sorrow” (the record)  tells.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 02, 2018, 05:26:09 AM
“We Are Nothing” and “Vintage”... holy fuck.  The book end effect of those is insane. What a story the “A Prelude to Sorrow” (the record)  tells.

Seriously. Those two songs alone are worth the price of admission, IMO.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Grappler on November 02, 2018, 06:18:15 AM
I am absolutely loving this disc.  There is some monster guitar work on the album, and Joseph is showing so many facets of his voice.  The highs, lows, screams, some rougher, growled stuff.  What a fantastic follow up to the debut!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 02, 2018, 07:15:15 AM
I am absolutely loving this disc.  There is some monster guitar work on the album, and Joseph is showing so many facets of his voice.  The highs, lows, screams, some rougher, growled stuff.  What a fantastic follow up to the debut!

Seriously. I quite liked Joseph's performance on the first album, but both he and Jake show a ton of growth and versatility on this album! :hefdaddy

Also, Steve Bolognese's drumming on this album is top notch. Loved his work on Into Eternity, but I think this is probably his best album yet!

That said, I'm still wondering if Gergo Borlai is on any of these songs (it kinda sounds like it might be him on the middle part of Vintage?) since that initial press release on their site mentioned Borlai was on the album, but none of the reviews I've seen confirm whether that's the case or not.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on November 02, 2018, 08:20:00 AM
Glad you guys dig it. I loved it so much, that in addition to the CD pre-order I had already, I ordered the blue vinyl and some other goodies from their site. Just a great record from top to bottom.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 02, 2018, 08:24:19 AM
Glad you guys dig it. I loved it so much, that in addition to the CD pre-order I had already, I ordered the blue vinyl and some other goodies from their site. Just a great record from top to bottom.

I'm also ordering the blue vinyl soon! :hefdaddy Just have to wait a bit first since I've had to pick up a couple of things for my new videomaking gig, as previously mentioned.

In a way, the growth from Nocturnes to Prelude reminds me a lot of what happened with Queensryche with The Warning to Rage for Order.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on November 02, 2018, 09:43:11 AM
You mean it wimps out??
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 02, 2018, 09:50:02 AM
You mean it wimps out??

Okay, that's fair, I suppose. :lol

Nah, this is quite a bit moodier and more complex than the first album IMO. And it's absolutely heavier at times too. Honestly the closest comparison I can think of for this album is probably Nevermore's Dreaming Neon Black and even that doesn't feel quite right to me.

Also, the more I listen to the album, the more I wonder if it's Gergo Borlai or Steve we're listening to on the drums for both We Are Nothing and Vintage. Both songs have segments in them that absolutely sound like his unique playing style... but then Shadows also has a couple bits here and there where I think it could be him too, so I'm wondering if I'm thinking way too hard on that.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on November 02, 2018, 10:40:25 AM
TAC -  :lol

I love The Warning, but Rage is absolutely darker, and more technical. MG -- you made a great comparison.

The funny thing with Witherfall is that they talk about the influence of Queen on them...and while I hear it, I think they are absolutely more influenced by Floyd and thrash metal. I mean, Queen is really eclectic as a rock band, and I get that from Witherfall, but not as much as I think some others do. And besides, I think Joseph has better teeth than poor Freddie did (may he RIP).  :lol
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 02, 2018, 10:55:43 AM
TAC -  :lol

I love The Warning, but Rage is absolutely darker, and more technical. MG -- you made a great comparison.

The funny thing with Witherfall is that they talk about the influence of Queen on them...and while I hear it, I think they are absolutely more influenced by Floyd and thrash metal. I mean, Queen is really eclectic as a rock band, and I get that from Witherfall, but not as much as I think some others do. And besides, I think Joseph has better teeth than poor Freddie did (may he RIP).  :lol

Honestly from what I gather about Joseph and Jake when they compare themselves to Queen, a lot of what they seem to be drawing from is how they seamlessly married complex and experimental musical ideas in a very melodic manner... but the riffs are done more in the vein of say Chuck Schuldiner or Jeff Loomis. :biggrin:

It's more the spirit of Queen that they take after so much than it is their specific sound, though that's inevitably there a bit too. Heck, I think Jake definitely channeled some of Brian's style in certain solos on this new album.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Scorpion on November 02, 2018, 11:15:04 AM
I've given A Prelude to Sorrow three listens so far, and while I know that I haven't absorbed everything yet, I really really love what I've heard so far. The musicality and the emotion throughout are just on a whole different level compared to their debut, which was already stellar.

"Vintage" is probably my favourite song of the year so far, and "We Are Nothing" is not far off.

Just a great album front-to-back.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 02, 2018, 08:32:59 PM
I've given A Prelude to Sorrow three listens so far, and while I know that I haven't absorbed everything yet, I really really love what I've heard so far. The musicality and the emotion throughout are just on a whole different level compared to their debut, which was already stellar.

"Vintage" is probably my favourite song of the year so far, and "We Are Nothing" is not far off.

Just a great album front-to-back.

It's awesome to see you again, Scorpion! :metal

And yeah, I completely agree with you on all fronts. The more I listen to it, the more I adore "Vintage." That's a metal classic right there IMO. :hefdaddy
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on November 03, 2018, 08:11:12 PM
One listen through and I don't even know where to start. PHENOMENAL album.

The performances by everyone are incredible. Steve Bolognese is a f'n beast. Holy shit!


Vintage reminds me a lot of Metallica's One. Until it reminds me of Fade To Black.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 03, 2018, 09:37:05 PM
One listen through and I don't even know where to start. PHENOMENAL album.

The performances by everyone are incredible. Steve Bolognese is a f'n beast. Holy shit!


Vintage reminds me a lot of Metallica's One. Until it reminds me of Fade To Black.

Seriously, this album is remarkable. Just gets better with repeated listens too IMO.

Yep, the drums on this album are... :hefdaddy Anthony Crawford's bass work on the album is great too!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on November 05, 2018, 07:07:21 PM
Vintage

Song. Of. The. Year.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 05, 2018, 07:10:06 PM
Vintage

Song. Of. The. Year.

No lies detected. Jake and Joseph hit a homerun on that song! :hat

Really hoping more folks opt to check this album out soon and join in the conversation.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on November 05, 2018, 07:12:59 PM
I'm actually going back to Nocturnes tonight.

What Are We Dying For :metal

On Prelude, I love the uniqueness and confidence that Joseph brings vocally.

Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 05, 2018, 07:24:59 PM
I'm actually going back to Nocturnes tonight.

What Are We Dying For :metal

On Prelude, I love the uniqueness and confidence that John brings vocally.

Yeah, Joseph crushes it on Prelude. Incredible performance IMO.

Nocturnes is such a great album. Nobody Sleeps Here is still my favorite off that album, but What We Are Dying For and Sacrifice aren't far behind at all. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Scorpion on November 06, 2018, 07:14:20 AM
Vintage and We Are Nothing are both amazing. Definitely the best songs on the album.

On the whole, Jake's playing has improved so much. Which I didn't think was possible, because he was already on fire on Nocturnes, but he knocks it out of the park here. Stunning front-to-back. :hefdaddy
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 06, 2018, 08:51:37 AM
Vintage and We Are Nothing are both amazing. Definitely the best songs on the album.

On the whole, Jake's playing has improved so much. Which I didn't think was possible, because he was already on fire on Nocturnes, but he knocks it out of the park here. Stunning front-to-back. :hefdaddy

Yep. I also really love Communion of the Wicked and Shadows.

As for We Are Nothing, there's some parts near the end of that song that remind me a LOT of those unfinished Control Denied songs that hit the web a few years back, which I think is awesome. I always felt like Chuck was in the process of evolving into a new sound with Control Denied and when their second album was officially canned a few years back, I was devastated that we'd never get to see that new sound explored more in depth. We Are Nothing kinda feels like an opportunity of getting a better idea of what CD could have ended up sounding like.

Yeah, Jake's really stepped up his game. Not just with his playing, but with his compositional skills, I think.

Also, Steve Bolognese... :hefdaddy He's going to be right up there with the likes of Bobby Jarzombek and Mike Portnoy, I think. Love the drum work I hear on this album.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Scorpion on November 06, 2018, 09:28:45 AM
One minor criticism I have is that some transitions feel a little rough. For example, the transition out of the calm part in We Are Nothing.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 06, 2018, 06:50:33 PM
Looks like I should give this album a go.  I've tried the debut a few times but I just didn't dig it.  All the elements were there but something was missing for me. 
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on November 06, 2018, 06:51:34 PM
Kade, just check out Vintage.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: mike099 on November 06, 2018, 09:50:57 PM
I've given A Prelude to Sorrow three listens so far, and while I know that I haven't absorbed everything yet, I really really love what I've heard so far. The musicality and the emotion throughout are just on a whole different level compared to their debut, which was already stellar.

"Vintage" is probably my favourite song of the year so far, and "We Are Nothing" is not far off.

Just a great album front-to-back.

It's awesome to see you again, Scorpion! :metal

And yeah, I completely agree with you on all fronts. The more I listen to it, the more I adore "Vintage." That's a metal classic right there IMO. :hefdaddy
Finally listened to the whole album in one sitting and Vintage is how an epic should be - no filler and holy crap the ending of the song was so powerful.  Like Scorpion said above 'We are Nothing' is right up there.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 06, 2018, 09:57:49 PM
Kade, just check out Vintage.

Seriously. That song is utterly magnificent.

Finally listened to the whole album in one sitting and Vintage is how an epic should be - no filler and holy crap the ending of the song was so powerful.  Like Scorpion said above 'We are Nothing' is right up there.

Yep. Vintage flies right by for me. And the final four minutes or so are just stunning.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 06, 2018, 10:32:56 PM
I have big expectations for this song now.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 06, 2018, 10:39:23 PM
I have big expectations for this song now.

I will caution that it took me a few listens to fully grow on me to the extent that it has, but it's an impressive song nonetheless right out of the gate IMO.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 07, 2018, 04:42:50 AM
I have big expectations for this song now.

I will caution that it took me a few listens to fully grow on me to the extent that it has, but it's an impressive song nonetheless right out of the gate IMO.

I didn't get around to getting onto this album today but definitely will.

I should like this band, love what Jake bought to the latest Iced Earth.  Great guitarist.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 08, 2018, 02:40:12 AM
I have big expectations for this song now.

I will caution that it took me a few listens to fully grow on me to the extent that it has, but it's an impressive song nonetheless right out of the gate IMO.

I didn't get around to getting onto this album today but definitely will.

I should like this band, love what Jake bought to the latest Iced Earth.  Great guitarist.

I really can't wait to hear what Jake adds to the songwriting on the next IE album. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on November 08, 2018, 08:09:16 AM
I have big expectations for this song now.

I will caution that it took me a few listens to fully grow on me to the extent that it has, but it's an impressive song nonetheless right out of the gate IMO.

I didn't get around to getting onto this album today but definitely will.

I should like this band, love what Jake bought to the latest Iced Earth.  Great guitarist.

I really can't wait to hear what Jake adds to the songwriting on the next IE album. :metal

Has it been said by Jon that he will let Jake write? I ask, because I thought Jon was pretty forward that he writes the songs, and collaborates on lyrics with Stu, and that's what they do. But yeah, I'd be all for Jake writing a bit for IE, given what I have heard with Witherfall.

The most interesting thing for me is Joseph's involvement with Sanctuary. That live show was amazing (hope Joseph can keep up those crazy vocals long term), but while I am looking forward to some new Sanctuary, I hope they are able to take the Alice in Chains route, and do it all in a way that is really respectful to Warrel. I am sure it will be, but always a tall order when replacing such a distinct frontman.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 08, 2018, 09:23:09 AM
Has it been said by Jon that he will let Jake write? I ask, because I thought Jon was pretty forward that he writes the songs, and collaborates on lyrics with Stu, and that's what they do. But yeah, I'd be all for Jake writing a bit for IE, given what I have heard with Witherfall.

The most interesting thing for me is Joseph's involvement with Sanctuary. That live show was amazing (hope Joseph can keep up those crazy vocals long term), but while I am looking forward to some new Sanctuary, I hope they are able to take the Alice in Chains route, and do it all in a way that is really respectful to Warrel. I am sure it will be, but always a tall order when replacing such a distinct frontman.

Yep! Jon mentioned it a few times last year when Incorruptible came out. Part of Jake's audition process involved him sending him song ideas that were more in the traditional vein of IE since the band isn't as outright proggy as Witherfall are, and Jon was excited to continue working on those songs for the next album since they'd already written everything for Incorruptible by then. Plus Luke Appleton had one or two songwriting credits on Incorruptible too IIRC. Jon seems to be more open about others writing IE stuff now.

Yeah, Joseph's stuff with Sanctuary is bound to be interesting. I'm confident he and the rest of the band will be honor Warrel properly. As for Joseph keeping his crazy vocals up for the long term, I don't think that'll be impossible, though certainly quite difficult. For example, both Ripper Owens and King Diamond have held up their voices in ridiculously great shape for ages now. Not to mention Bruce Dickinson.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 08, 2018, 03:49:59 PM
I' had half an hour to myself in my office so cranked open youtube and started having a listen.  I know why I couldn't get into these guys on the first album, the Nevermore influence is just too blatant for my liking.  Everything here I should like, but that is turning me off.  This is kind of sounding the same as what I remember from the first, but it's on shitty computer speakers and only listened to the first two songs.  There is so much potential here, I guess I should try and just find a way past that issue I have and try and enjoy more.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 08, 2018, 08:12:59 PM
I' had half an hour to myself in my office so cranked open youtube and started having a listen.  I know why I couldn't get into these guys on the first album, the Nevermore influence is just too blatant for my liking.  Everything here I should like, but that is turning me off.  This is kind of sounding the same as what I remember from the first, but it's on shitty computer speakers and only listened to the first two songs.  There is so much potential here, I guess I should try and just find a way past that issue I have and try and enjoy more.

That's definitely fair. That said, check out Vintage. It's one of their least "Nevermore"-sounding songs. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on November 08, 2018, 08:15:28 PM
Yeah, I don't care for Nevermore. I'm not in love with We Are Nothing, especially the chorus, but the album definitely improves after the first song.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 08, 2018, 08:18:41 PM
I listened to the rest at work.  It's hard to gauge as I said on crappy speakers on the first listen.  It seems more enjoyable than the first and I can see elements growing on me.  Vintage was indeed a highlight and will sound great blasted in the car.  I'm optimistic but they just seem with their style not very accessible, but there's potential.  I'll listen a few more times.

Yeah, I don't care for Nevermore. I'm not in love with We Are Nothing, especially the chorus, but the album definitely improves after the first song.

That's funny cause there are moments where they sound more like Nevermore than Nevermore.

I' had half an hour to myself in my office so cranked open youtube and started having a listen.  I know why I couldn't get into these guys on the first album, the Nevermore influence is just too blatant for my liking.  Everything here I should like, but that is turning me off.  This is kind of sounding the same as what I remember from the first, but it's on shitty computer speakers and only listened to the first two songs.  There is so much potential here, I guess I should try and just find a way past that issue I have and try and enjoy more.

That's definitely fair. That said, check out Vintage. It's one of their least "Nevermore"-sounding songs. :metal

I agree, that was great.  The ending was kickass.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 08, 2018, 08:43:11 PM
I find that so bizarre. The Nevermore comparisons are obviously on point, but I've personally always had an easier time listening to Witherfall on a whim than I do with them, despite ranking several of their albums as personal favorites. I always have to be in a mood to put on Nevermore. With Witherfall, they just feel a lot more immediately approachable to me. Go figure. :lol

BTW, Kade, definitely check out the single Witherfall released back in March called "The Long Walk Home (December)." It's a moody ballad in the vein of Zak Stevens-era Savatage. :tup
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 08, 2018, 08:53:42 PM
I find that so bizarre. The Nevermore comparisons are obviously on point, but I've personally always had an easier time listening to Witherfall on a whim than I do with them, despite ranking several of their albums as personal favorites. I always have to be in a mood to put on Nevermore. With Witherfall, they just feel a lot more immediately approachable to me. Go figure. :lol

BTW, Kade, definitely check out the single Witherfall released back in March called "The Long Walk Home (December)." It's a moody ballad in the vein of Zak Stevens-era Savatage. :tup

Will do.  Gonna give the debut another crack too.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Scorpion on November 09, 2018, 01:45:20 AM
BTW, Kade, definitely check out the single Witherfall released back in March called "The Long Walk Home (December)." It's a moody ballad in the vein of Zak Stevens-era Savatage. :tup

So I had no idea that this existed, so I had a quick listen.

That was great. Very different from their usual guitar pyrotechnics, but equally enjoyable. :tup
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: v_clortho on November 09, 2018, 09:22:02 AM
At 7:04 into "We are Nothing" I always think "The Mirror" is about to start.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 12, 2018, 03:32:27 PM
So, my old cd buying addiction which I've really gotten a good hold of over the last couple of years reared its ugly head on the weekend.  Plus, you guys are very influential and I trust your opinions and judgement with the utmost respect.  I was out on the weekend and went into JB (cd store) really to see if I could get a copy of the Fifth Angel.  I noticed that for the entire weekend they had 20% off cd's.

I managed to get a copy of the Fifth Angel and also grabbed the newest Behemoth (really liked the last one).  As I was looking down the metal section in alphabetical order I got to W and saw Nocturnes and Requiems.  I picked it up and looked at it's lovely packaging and wonderful artwork.  I put it down and thought about my comments I've just posted here about it and my opinions.  Kept looking as I was waiting for my gf who was browsing in another store and was meeting me where I was and she arrived, 'let's go', I'll' just pay for these,' I said and as I walked my hand took on a mind of its owned reached back in and picked up the album and kept walking.  If they had the new one, I probably would have gotten that too.  I don't know why I felt the need to buy it, but that's that.

Anyway, I cranked it in the car and on the first listen I found it better than I remembered.  The Nevermore references are strong but not as blatant or offensive as I once thought.  The verse riff of Portrait told me right away why I felt like I needed to persist with these guys.  The song structures are quite bizarre IMO and it all kind of feels like a whole at the moment.  Hard to distinguish between the tracks.  Anyway, I'm actually really enjoying it a lot.  I wish there were more hooks but I think the songs will open up more the more I listen.  They are a very talented band, and what they are doing is actually very unique IMO.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on November 12, 2018, 03:41:45 PM
Nice Kade. That's a great album. Tons to sink your teeth into. I really like how thoughtful it is. You really can't put a handle on it. It metal, but there's so much more to it. Each song is like its own journey.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 12, 2018, 04:20:09 PM
Nice Kade. That's a great album. Tons to sink your teeth into. I really like how thoughtful it is. You really can't put a handle on it. It metal, but there's so much more to it. Each song is like its own journey.

There is definitely a lot to explore, with lots of variety.  I'm not sure why when it came out and it was recommended and rated so highly why I just dismissed it, but I'm really enjoying it now.  There will be so many new things that will be picked up on each listen I think.  The structures still seem odd, but I'm sure everything will fall into place.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Big Hath on November 12, 2018, 10:35:23 PM
and as I walked my hand took on a mind of its owned reached back in and picked up the album

dude, you need to be very careful


(https://blogs.iu.edu/aplaceforfilm/files/2018/07/evil-dead-2-hand-gif-2bdepw6.gif)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 13, 2018, 04:36:02 AM
 :lol

Im liking this album.  Apologies for discussing the debut when a new one just came out but I'm really enjoying this now.  Even the quieter sort of droning sections I wasn't too keen on I'm loving now.  The end of End of Time, Finale and the outro of Nobody Sleeps Here are awesome.  Finale actually freaks me out, so eerie and disturbing.  Get a King Diamond vibe from parts of this album too.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Scorpion on November 13, 2018, 04:46:09 AM
Speaking of calm sections, the middle part of What We Are Dying For is amazing. Some great atmosphere and the guitar work is phenomenal.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 13, 2018, 06:22:43 AM
:lol

Im liking this album.  Apologies for discussing the debut when a new one just came out but I'm really enjoying this now.  Even the quieter sort of droning sections I wasn't too keen on I'm loving now.  The end of End of Time, Finale and the outro of Nobody Sleeps Here are awesome.  Finale actually freaks me out, so eerie and disturbing.  Get a King Diamond vibe from parts of this album too.

It's all good. Nocturnes & Requiems is an outstanding album and I'm always happy to hear that someone likes it! Nobody Sleeps Here and Sacrifice are my two personal faves off that album, followed closely by What We Are Dying For.

Definitely looking forward to hearing what your thoughts on A Prelude to Sorrow evolve into moving forward, Kade! :metal

Speaking of calm sections, the middle part of What We Are Dying For is amazing. Some great atmosphere and the guitar work is phenomenal.

Seriously. It's one of the first songs I'd recommend someone new to Witherfall to check out, since I think it's a pretty accessible option while also showcasing some of their proggier tendencies too. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on November 13, 2018, 06:30:05 AM
I've used What Are We Dying For a couple of times in roulettes, and it's always done pretty well.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 13, 2018, 02:24:08 PM
Yes, the guitar playing in the middle of that song is amazing.

Hoping now I can find the new one instore somewhere this coming weekend.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on November 13, 2018, 03:15:50 PM
Still waiting for my order from WItherfall's merch store. Looks like I ordered, it got shipped late, and its taking its sweet time getting here. I bought the CD itself on Amazon, and had a media stream/download, so its not like I don't have access to the music. But I bought the blue vinyl, the black vinyl of the first record, and a shirt, and I'm still sitting here seeing it still in transit. Thankfully, Joseph answered email and gave me the tracking number, but waiting sucks.

GREAT record though. That's why I splurged on the blue vinyl.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 13, 2018, 06:18:33 PM
Still waiting for my order from WItherfall's merch store. Looks like I ordered, it got shipped late, and its taking its sweet time getting here. I bought the CD itself on Amazon, and had a media stream/download, so its not like I don't have access to the music. But I bought the blue vinyl, the black vinyl of the first record, and a shirt, and I'm still sitting here seeing it still in transit. Thankfully, Joseph answered email and gave me the tracking number, but waiting sucks.

GREAT record though. That's why I splurged on the blue vinyl.

Wow, that's awesome.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on November 14, 2018, 08:16:03 AM
He seems like a good dude. From what I can tell, he and Jake seem to run their merch, so its pretty hands-on. Makes sense in this day and age.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 14, 2018, 03:05:13 PM
He seems like a good dude. From what I can tell, he and Jake seem to run their merch, so its pretty hands-on. Makes sense in this day and age.

Makes you want to buy their shit too as you know the money would be going to the right people.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on November 14, 2018, 03:07:12 PM
I’m not a merchandise buyer but yeah Kade, I agree.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 14, 2018, 03:15:35 PM
I’m not a merchandise buyer but yeah Kade, I agree.

Yeah, I don't buy many shirts or anything that much anymore but knowing the band themselves are behind running the merch would definitely give me more incentive to buy.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on November 14, 2018, 03:25:06 PM
And yet, I still don't have my merch that I bought on October 23, which was shipped on Nov. 5 from Las Vegas. I can drive to Vegas in nine hours. It should be here, and nine DAYS later, it isn't. I'm a little annoyed, even though I know it isn't their fault, per se (although shipping out almost two weeks after I ordered is ridiculous).
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 14, 2018, 04:49:47 PM
And yet, I still don't have my merch that I bought on October 23, which was shipped on Nov. 5 from Las Vegas. I can drive to Vegas in nine hours. It should be here, and nine DAYS later, it isn't. I'm a little annoyed, even though I know it isn't their fault, per se (although shipping out almost two weeks after I ordered is ridiculous).

Well I'm definitely not ordering anything from where I am then.  :lol
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on November 14, 2018, 05:28:31 PM
 :lol
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: bl5150 on November 14, 2018, 06:27:04 PM
I’m not a merchandise buyer but yeah Kade, I agree.

Yeah, I don't buy many shirts or anything that much anymore but knowing the band themselves are behind running the merch would definitely give me more incentive to buy.

I don't either these days but made an exception the other night.  Went to the Scorps/Def Leppard gig and thought to myself " I don't have a Scorps shirt and they're touring Oz for the first time so I'll buy their overpriced - but quite nice OZ themed - shirt).   Went inside and the bloke next to me says " Enjoy your shirt mate because Scorpions have cancelled"  ;D ::)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 14, 2018, 06:37:29 PM
I’m not a merchandise buyer but yeah Kade, I agree.

Yeah, I don't buy many shirts or anything that much anymore but knowing the band themselves are behind running the merch would definitely give me more incentive to buy.

I don't either these days but made an exception the other night.  Went to the Scorps/Def Leppard gig and thought to myself " I don't have a Scorps shirt and they're touring Oz for the first time so I'll buy their overpriced - but quite nice OZ themed - shirt).   Went inside and the bloke next to me says " Enjoy your shirt mate because Scorpions have cancelled"  ;D ::)

Why did they cancel?
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: bl5150 on November 14, 2018, 06:39:25 PM
Klaus - vocal issues etc..... (ie getting a bit old for singing live every second night)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 14, 2018, 06:43:08 PM
Klaus - vocal issues etc..... (ie getting a bit old for singing live every second night)

That's a shitter mate.  That would have annoyed the fuck out of me if I went there and didn't know.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: bl5150 on November 14, 2018, 06:47:08 PM
Yep - only announced a few hours before on Facebook and I don't facebook (  :hifive:  Tim )

Anyway - hopefully Witherfall tour here (attempting to offset my derailing of the thread)  :)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 14, 2018, 06:59:29 PM
Yep - only announced a few hours before on Facebook and I don't facebook (  :hifive:  Tim )

Anyway - hopefully Witherfall tour here (attempting to offset my derailing of the thread)  :)

Don't forget me mate, I'm not on facebook either.

Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on November 14, 2018, 07:13:51 PM
I saw on Bravewords that Klaus could not go in Melbourne. I did think of you Brent. He was saving himself for Sydney but ended up canceling there.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on November 15, 2018, 02:01:03 PM
Update on my missing Witherfall package. Unfortunately, Joseph Michael just referred me to the USPS when I asked about the status of my package. I am pretty sure that is going to lead nowhere, and I won't get what I ordered, and may even be out the $94.17 bucks I paid them.

I would have thought he would have gone the extra mile to make this right, since I'm a customer and fan. But I guess not. I'll have to figure it out on my own.

Just FYI for anyone ordering. I am sure Joseph is a busy guy, but that was really a big turn-off. It's not like it was 10 bucks. I spent a nice chunk of cash on two vinyls and a shirt.

And now USPS tracking is down. So...double fucked.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: wolfking on November 15, 2018, 02:19:09 PM
Update on my missing Witherfall package. Unfortunately, Joseph Michael just referred me to the USPS when I asked about the status of my package. I am pretty sure that is going to lead nowhere, and I won't get what I ordered, and may even be out the $94.17 bucks I paid them.

I would have thought he would have gone the extra mile to make this right, since I'm a customer and fan. But I guess not. I'll have to figure it out on my own.

Just FYI for anyone ordering. I am sure Joseph is a busy guy, but that was really a big turn-off. It's not like it was 10 bucks. I spent a nice chunk of cash on two vinyls and a shirt.

And now USPS tracking is down. So...double fucked.

That's really disappointing mate.  You would think he would have tried to help a little more.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on November 15, 2018, 02:22:49 PM

That's really disappointing mate.  You would think he would have tried to help a little more.

Maybe I just caught him at a bad time. I mean, it is not his fault the Post Office is slow (although he did ship out like a week and a half after I ordered, which is ridiculous), but after waiting now a full three weeks, and not having anything, I did expect a little more attention.

It is what it is. I'll try and recover my money through USPS.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Big Hath on November 15, 2018, 09:47:18 PM
Yep - only announced a few hours before on Facebook and I don't facebook (  :hifive:  Tim )

Anyway - hopefully Witherfall tour here (attempting to offset my derailing of the thread)  :)

Don't forget me mate, I'm not on facebook either.

ditto that
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on November 16, 2018, 05:12:28 PM

That's really disappointing mate.  You would think he would have tried to help a little more.

Why would the band ship product before street date?

Maybe I just caught him at a bad time. I mean, it is not his fault the Post Office is slow (although he did ship out like a week and a half after I ordered, which is ridiculous), but after waiting now a full three weeks, and not having anything, I did expect a little more attention.

It is what it is. I'll try and recover my money through USPS.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on November 18, 2018, 06:50:50 AM

That's really disappointing mate.  You would think he would have tried to help a little more.

Maybe I just caught him at a bad time. I mean, it is not his fault the Post Office is slow (although he did ship out like a week and a half after I ordered, which is ridiculous), but after waiting now a full three weeks, and not having anything, I did expect a little more attention.

It is what it is. I'll try and recover my money through USPS.

Sorry to hear about this, man. :(
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Witherfall_Joesph_Jake on November 18, 2018, 09:59:45 AM

That's really disappointing mate.  You would think he would have tried to help a little more.



Maybe I just caught him at a bad time. I mean, it is not his fault the Post Office is slow (although he did ship out like a week and a half after I ordered, which is ridiculous), but after waiting now a full three weeks, and not having anything, I did expect a little more attention.

Samsara:

Please send your tracking order info to info@witherfall.com so this can be resolved.  ALso, Items that are pre-ordered are not shipped until a day or so before street date. Some items like Black Vinyl didn't even arrive to the band until the 5th. They then have to be unpacked and inventoried(accounted for) then shipped one by one. By One person. I cannot comment on the exact order here because i have no details. Please refrain from posting here USPS issues have nothing to do with the band.














It is what it is. I'll try and recover my money through USPS.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on November 18, 2018, 12:23:04 PM

Samsara:

Please send your tracking order info to info@witherfall.com so this can be resolved.  ALso, Items that are pre-ordered are not shipped until a day or so before street date. Some items like Black Vinyl didn't even arrive to the band until the 5th. They then have to be unpacked and inventoried(accounted for) then shipped one by one. By One person. I cannot comment on the exact order here because i have no details. Please refrain from posting here USPS issues have nothing to do with the band.

The tracking said it was delivered to my office, FINALLY, on Friday. I'll take a trip down there this afternoon and pick it up, if so, and see if everything is there, and what kind of condition it is in, given it was shipped media mail.

Respectfully, I did say the delay is likely not the band's fault, as USPS is, well, USPS, and out of your control. But please don't tell me what I can post about and where. I understand you don't want any negativity about Witherfall, or your business. That's totally understandable. But my experience is what it was, and I was honest and truthful about what went down. Hopefully, the stuff is sitting in my office undamaged and no worse for wear. Thanks.

EDIT - the package did indeed arrive, and everything was in perfect shape. But folks should be aware it is all being shipped media mail, with tracking. That tends to take a LONG time to arrive, and is usually poorly handled by USPS.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on November 24, 2018, 12:17:41 AM
Since this is a music forum:

https://youtu.be/hlD3-EWGNZA
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on November 24, 2018, 06:18:29 PM
EDIT - the package did indeed arrive, and everything was in perfect shape. But folks should be aware it is all being shipped media mail, with tracking. That tends to take a LONG time to arrive, and is usually poorly handled by USPS.

Media mail is the absolute worst. Seriously, Pony Express is quicker.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on November 26, 2018, 08:41:09 AM
EDIT - the package did indeed arrive, and everything was in perfect shape. But folks should be aware it is all being shipped media mail, with tracking. That tends to take a LONG time to arrive, and is usually poorly handled by USPS.

Media mail is the absolute worst. Seriously, Pony Express is quicker.

Yeah, it sucked. But I finally got it all. Very pleased with the stuff. Thankfully, nothing was damaged.

I really love this second record from Witherfall. It makes me curious to see where they go for a third record. I have no idea where they can progress from this, keeping the same classical meets prog metal sound. It'll be interesting. But man, Prelude to Sorrow is a great record.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Scorpion on November 26, 2018, 12:17:37 PM
Yeah, A Prelude to Sorrow is seriously awesome. We Are Nothing and Vintage are two of the best songs of 2018 for me. The shorter songs aren't as good in my opinion, still great listen. But I think Witherfall's musical approach works better on the longer tracks.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on November 26, 2018, 12:37:31 PM
Yeah, A Prelude to Sorrow is seriously awesome. We Are Nothing and Vintage are two of the best songs of 2018 for me. The shorter songs aren't as good in my opinion, still great listen. But I think Witherfall's musical approach works better the longer tracks.

Agreed completely on those two songs being the gems of the record. And on the musical approach. It just suits their writing better.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on April 25, 2019, 09:56:54 PM
God, I wish I'd been more active on here the past few months!

Okay, so in case you've missed it elsewhere, Witherfall released a really cool acoustic-based E.P. titled Vintage last month, with an acoustic medley of Vintage and Nobody Sleeps Here, as well as an acoustic version for Ode to Despair and covers of Tom Petty's I Won't Back Down and Helloween's A Tale That Wasn't Right and the original electric version of Vintage from A Prelude of Sorrow to cap it all off.

It's good stuff. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on May 25, 2019, 05:39:29 PM
God, I wish I'd been more active on here the past few months!

Okay, so in case you've missed it elsewhere, Witherfall released a really cool acoustic-based E.P. titled Vintage last month, with an acoustic medley of Vintage and Nobody Sleeps Here, as well as an acoustic version for Ode to Despair and covers of Tom Petty's I Won't Back Down and Helloween's A Tale That Wasn't Right and the original electric version of Vintage from A Prelude of Sorrow to cap it all off.

It's good stuff. :metal

Witherfall are managed by Frank Solomon the same company as Dream Theater it seems!

https://www.facebook.com/pg/witherfall/about/?ref=page_internal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on June 05, 2019, 07:49:12 PM
Just checked out the Helloween and the Petty covers.

I really liked what they did with I Won't Back Down. That was really cool.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Samsara on June 06, 2019, 09:32:48 AM
I wasn't a huge fan of the EP, specifically, the Tom Petty cover. I appreciate the effort, but I didn't really dig it at all.

Glad Witherfall has a good mgmt team behind them. Hopefully the band can make a name for itself.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on June 06, 2019, 09:37:03 AM
I liked how creepy they made the Tom Petty song.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: TAC on June 21, 2019, 06:57:09 PM
So, I posted this in the Friday Releases Thread earlier today. I'm posting it here because this band reminds me a lot of Witherfall. I don't find them quite as metal, and I don't think the vocals are as strong, but that may also be due to the lesser production values.

Anyway, I've listened to this 3 times today. This is a fantastic album.

Sorcerer is AMAZING!

(https://f4.bcbits.com/img/a2099309597_10.jpg)

Howling Sycamore-Seven Pathways To Annihilation

https://open.spotify.com/album/5EFvMsD2JAZI4GbpNNeLe1?si=oduEVsjaTQ-zCM4AY-7OJA


Half way through this and holy shit this is awesome! It reminds me a lot of Witherfall.


I think Sorcerer is instantly a Top 5 Track of the year.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: The Walrus on May 19, 2020, 07:12:59 PM
Love me some Witherfall. My buddy is their keyboardist!

I just bought a bottle of their new Tempest wine and it just shipped.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on May 19, 2020, 07:48:44 PM
Love me some Witherfall. My buddy is their keyboardist!

I just bought a bottle of their new Tempest wine and it just shipped.

Oh wow, you're friends with Alex Nasla? Nice! The Tempest wine looks great, I'll try to order some for myself sometime in the nearish future.

I apologize for not keeping up with the thread for awhile, btw. I'm super excited for the upcoming third album from the band, they've been mentioning in interviews lately that they're aiming to release a followup to A Prelude to Sorrow this November.

I'm curious to see who will handle drums on the album. The band mentioned on Facebook awhile back that Gergo Borlai recorded all of the drums on Prelude, but I have no idea if Steve Bolognese is still in the band or not or if Gergo is the band's permanent drummer.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: v_clortho on May 19, 2020, 08:40:48 PM
I heard an interview with Marco Minneman and he said he just got done recording drums for Witherfall's new album. I think it was on the prog report.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on May 19, 2020, 08:45:57 PM
I heard an interview with Marco Minneman and he said he just got done recording drums for Witherfall's new album. I think it was on the prog report.

Oh HELL YES. THAT'S AMAZING NEWS.  :hefdaddy :hefdaddy :hefdaddy :hefdaddy :hefdaddy :hefdaddy :metal :metal :metal :metal :metal :metal :metal :metal

If you could find that interview and share it in here, that'd be super appreciated! :tup
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: The Walrus on May 19, 2020, 09:03:33 PM
Yeah Alex is an awesome guy, super nice and mad talented. And the new album is gonna rock for sure.

Over the holidays I got a Witherfall happy holidays card that's still on my fridge. When my bottle of wine arrives I'm gonna let it sit for a few weeks per Alex's suggestion and then have me a nice Witherfall & wine listening session. :biggrin: :corn
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: Mister Gold on May 19, 2020, 09:22:25 PM
Yeah Alex is an awesome guy, super nice and mad talented. And the new album is gonna rock for sure.

Over the holidays I got a Witherfall happy holidays card that's still on my fridge. When my bottle of wine arrives I'm gonna let it sit for a few weeks per Alex's suggestion and then have me a nice Witherfall & wine listening session. :biggrin: :corn

Yeah, everything I've seen from Alex online has me excited to see what he contributes to the band. Dude's got insane talent. Between him, the rest of the band and apparently nabbing Marco Minnemann to perform drums, I'm super excited to see what the heck the next album sounds like!

Also I'm gonna admit that I'm a wee bit jealous about the Happy Holidays card! That's a really awesome thing to have! :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - A PRELUDE TO SORROW (New Album, November 2nd, 2018)
Post by: v_clortho on May 20, 2020, 05:55:23 AM
Pretty sure it's here...
progreport.com/randy-mcstine-and-marco-minnemann-interview/ (http://progreport.com/randy-mcstine-and-marco-minnemann-interview/)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - ALBUM #3 In The Works
Post by: Mister Gold on May 20, 2020, 07:04:44 AM
Pretty sure it's here...
progreport.com/randy-mcstine-and-marco-minnemann-interview/ (http://progreport.com/randy-mcstine-and-marco-minnemann-interview/)

Yep, that's the interview alright! Just listened to the first half or so of it myself, Marco confirms a couple of times that he recorded the drums for the Witherfall album! Not sure if he's a permanent band member or not (it doesn't sound like it for now), but still... dude's an amazing drummer! :metal I'll be pumped to hear his work on the new material when that album comes out!

I'm particularly excited since I remember the guys mentioning in interviews back in early 2017 how they wanted a drummer that fit the same sort of mold as Mike Portnoy and Mickey Dee, which Marco fits the bill perfectly in that respect.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - ALBUM #3 In The Works For Late 2020 Release
Post by: Mister Gold on May 21, 2020, 08:52:35 AM
Jake and Joseph have been doing a few interviews promoting the band's new Tempest wine and teasing the upcoming third album! And apparently they really want to get back to the ways of the 70's and try to release a new album every year. :metal

Metal Insider: https://www.metalinsider.net/interviews/a-conversation-with-witherfalls-joseph-michael-jake-dreyer-on-wine-food-new-album-update-and-more-wine?fbclid=IwAR2mpJnWiDBG8LK4SqT2SejLdMp_KSeARoP7OdAgfwfAsT-qWczS2YfEuhI
WeTalkPodcasts: https://wetalkpodcasts.com/wtmusic-witherfall-jake-joseph-and-the-tempest/?fbclid=IwAR1JEmBdNvwGNrysLvCtgY4xwHJv3wr7J_vxxfL8HPXH2tWnlT6jKXFPs2I

They also tease a new epic that's even more ambitious than Vintage or We Are Nothing on the upcoming album!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - ALBUM #3 In The Works For Late 2020 Release
Post by: The Walrus on May 21, 2020, 08:54:36 AM
Awww heck yeah. I can't wait! It would be awesome if they could release a new album every year. Think I'm gonna put on a bunch of Witherfall for tonight's running session. :2metal:
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - ALBUM #3 In The Works For Late 2020 Release
Post by: Mister Gold on May 21, 2020, 09:38:06 AM
Awww heck yeah. I can't wait! It would be awesome if they could release a new album every year. Think I'm gonna put on a bunch of Witherfall for tonight's running session. :2metal:

Yeah, I'm even good if it's every two years, but if they can pull it off, a new Witherfall entry every year would be stellar!

Hell, I'm still giddy at the news that Marco Minnemann handled the drums for this new album! He's such a ridiculously great fit for the band, even if this winds up just being as a session drummer.

I've been debating whether to add that Marco's involved in the thread title to get more people interested, but the band hasn't announced it yet and didn't mention Marco in their latest interviews, so I'll probably wait until they publicly announce that themselves.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - ALBUM #3 In The Works For Late 2020 Release
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on May 28, 2020, 09:47:09 AM
Apparently a lot of stuff is going on with the new release. They have been very mysterious in their posts where as on Prelude they posted a lot while recording.

http://www.witherfall.com has some new stuff on it. Looks like they are pre-selling the new album.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - ALBUM #3 In The Works For Late 2020 Release
Post by: The Walrus on May 28, 2020, 10:00:47 AM
Sweet! Maybe I'll place my order this weekend. Also, check out what arrived earlier this week.

(https://i.imgur.com/nbMsI6X.jpg)

Think I'll crack this baby open on the 4th of July.  :hat
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - ALBUM #3 In The Works For Late 2020 Release
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on May 28, 2020, 10:03:19 AM
WOW!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - ALBUM #3 In The Works For Late 2020 Release
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on June 27, 2020, 12:34:57 PM
Whoah!

https://www.instagram.com/p/CB6g3PPAbIz/?igshid=1i7z2oibnjx6n&fbclid=IwAR2GTbLQ_FZJJNJPIs7JA6uE8RmRYhn0Q-1Acr-pCqrJoSc31uQHr_ctbkQ

 :omg:

Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - ALBUM #3 In The Works For Late 2020 Release
Post by: Zook on June 27, 2020, 01:01:50 PM
I need to give Witherfall another chance. What I heard wasn't bad, but didn't excite me.

It makes me happy to see positive reactions to Jon Schaffer as he can be a polarizing figure. I hope to meet him one day, and it goes better than when I met Portnoy.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - ALBUM #3 In The Works For Late 2020 Release
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on July 01, 2020, 05:48:26 PM
Awww heck yeah. I can't wait! It would be awesome if they could release a new album every year. Think I'm gonna put on a bunch of Witherfall for tonight's running session. :2metal:

Yeah, I'm even good if it's every two years, but if they can pull it off, a new Witherfall entry every year would be stellar!

Hell, I'm still giddy at the news that Marco Minnemann handled the drums for this new album! He's such a ridiculously great fit for the band, even if this winds up just being as a session drummer.

I've been debating whether to add that Marco's involved in the thread title to get more people interested, but the band hasn't announced it yet and didn't mention Marco in their latest interviews, so I'll probably wait until they publicly announce that themselves.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRlQP3ZAKXc&lc=UgyBM5MapOzs4eUZxdJ4AaABAg

Doesn't Sound Like Gergo
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - ALBUM #3 In The Works For Late 2020 Release
Post by: TAC on July 01, 2020, 06:12:30 PM
 :metal :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - ALBUM #3 In The Works For Late 2020 Release
Post by: Mister Gold on July 01, 2020, 06:22:05 PM
Awww heck yeah. I can't wait! It would be awesome if they could release a new album every year. Think I'm gonna put on a bunch of Witherfall for tonight's running session. :2metal:

Yeah, I'm even good if it's every two years, but if they can pull it off, a new Witherfall entry every year would be stellar!

Hell, I'm still giddy at the news that Marco Minnemann handled the drums for this new album! He's such a ridiculously great fit for the band, even if this winds up just being as a session drummer.

I've been debating whether to add that Marco's involved in the thread title to get more people interested, but the band hasn't announced it yet and didn't mention Marco in their latest interviews, so I'll probably wait until they publicly announce that themselves.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRlQP3ZAKXc&lc=UgyBM5MapOzs4eUZxdJ4AaABAg

Doesn't Sound Like Gergo

Yeah, it's almost definitely Marco. He already confirmed in an interview that he recorded the drums for the new Witherfall album, the band just hasn't announced it yet themselves.

Love the sample so far. Sounds quite heavy! :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Mister Gold on November 06, 2020, 12:03:06 PM
The first single "The Last Scar" off of the new album Curse of Autumn is out! The full album is slated for a March 2021 release. :hat

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qybjieZibRU&ab_channel=CenturyMediaRecords

Sounds pretty great to me! :metal

Also, more exciting is that it seems like Marco Minnemann has joined the band as their full-time drummer! He's listed outright on the latest blog entry on the band's website as a proper member, and the new band photo for Curse of Autumn features him there alongside the rest of the current lineup. :biggrin:

https://www.witherfall.com/home/blog/witherfall-release-the-last-scar
Quote
Today we release "The Last Scar" from the upcoming album Curse Of Autumn! Watch the video to see the album art reveal! LISTEN HERE:
 
Is there a better time of the year to dive headfirst into dark and progressive melodic metal than now?

While the shadows of winter are creeping up upon us and as the nights get longer, it's the perfect time to introduce Curse of Autumn, the upcoming album from L.A. band WITHERFALL. The record is due out in March 2021 on Century Media Records.

The album art is once again a hand-painted masterpiece by the legendary Kristian Wåhlin and is the fourth painting in the WITHERFALL series.

Listen to the glorious new song "The Last Scar," which is accompanied by a visualizer clip, here. 

"This is a nice and happy one," the band says. "It's heavily inspired by an evening on tour in the Czech Republic. It's possibly one of the most aggressive WITHERFALL songs and certainly a test of stamina for instrumentalists and voices. During the recording, our producer Jon Schaffer really put us to the test on getting these final takes. Both WITHERFALL and our team at Century Media felt this song would be the perfect way to introduce our latest offspring Curse of Autumn. Like any other WITHERFALL record, this one is quite the storm. This is but the first gust of wind…"
 
Keep your eyes peeled for more info as Curse Of Autumn unfolds.
 
WITHERFALL ARE:
Joseph Michael — Vocals/Keyboards (Also in Sanctuary)
Jake Dreyer — Acoustic and Electric Guitars (Also in Iced Earth/Demons & Wizards)
Anthony Crawford — Bass (Chon, Shalmor, Allan Holdsworth, Justin Timberlake, Kirk Whalum)
Marco Minnemann — Drums (The Aristocrats, Joe Satriani, Steven Wilson, Tony Levin, Jordan Rudess, Necrophagist))
Alex Nasla — Live Keyboards
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Grappler on November 06, 2020, 12:19:51 PM
That's an awesome, ripping song.  I wanted more of this style from them, rather than the big, epics.  I'm not sure that I like the production from Jon Schaffer.  There just isn't enough "oomph" in the sound, and it seems rather thin, but we'll see how the record turns out. 
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: The Walrus on November 06, 2020, 12:21:13 PM
My interest in all things Witherfall dropped drastically when I saw Joseph Michael showing support for John Finberg even after all the bands under him distanced themselves from him and went elsewhere for promotion. Ain't interested in supporting someone who supports a serial sexual harasser, sadly. Interest in the new album tanked.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: wolfking on November 06, 2020, 02:10:23 PM
My interest in all things Witherfall dropped drastically when I saw Joseph Michael showing support for John Finberg even after all the bands under him distanced themselves from him and went elsewhere for promotion. Ain't interested in supporting someone who supports a serial sexual harasser, sadly. Interest in the new album tanked.

I lost interest after they gave someone on here shoddy treatment and support from merch I think that wasn't sent?  I'd have to look back.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: wolfking on November 06, 2020, 02:12:04 PM
Yeah, it was Sam just back on the last page.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: NoFred on November 06, 2020, 03:41:34 PM
I haven’t seen an interview or situation where Joseph Michael doesn’t come across as an unsavory person. Nothing nice to say from a distance. Jake can play and I hope he continues to do well.

They scratch that itch for getting new metal from 1990, and this song sounds more of the same. Like it a lot and will buy.

If that’s the album cover detail cool to see them continuing with their artist.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on November 06, 2020, 05:03:24 PM
 :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: MoraWintersoul on November 06, 2020, 05:13:33 PM
I haven’t seen an interview or situation where Joseph Michael doesn’t come across as an unsavory person. Nothing nice to say from a distance. Jake can play and I hope he continues to do well.

They scratch that itch for getting new metal from 1990, and this song sounds more of the same. Like it a lot and will buy.

If that’s the album cover detail cool to see them continuing with their artist.
Yeah. Joseph is talented so he's never gonna get kicked out of a band, but my god, even going through his Facebook page is a chore and every interaction I or anyone else has ever had with him has been unpleasant. Reminds me of Ripper, hell of a singer, but best forget he exists outside of a recorded performance on a CD somewhere  :lol
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Mister Gold on November 06, 2020, 09:26:23 PM
That's an awesome, ripping song.  I wanted more of this style from them, rather than the big, epics.  I'm not sure that I like the production from Jon Schaffer.  There just isn't enough "oomph" in the sound, and it seems rather thin, but we'll see how the record turns out.

The production sounds good to me, though I do wish we could hear Anthony's bass lines a bit more clearly. But it's always hard to be sure how much of that is the actual production from Schaffer and how much of it is YouTube compression.

As for the comments on the band themselves from other posters here, I'll steer clear of that myself. I've never really had any sort of negative interactions with them myself, but I know I'm biased in that I'm probably one of the more vocal fans of the band on here.

Right now though, the music is quite promising and Marco seems to be fitting in wonderfully with the band. Definitely hope he's a permanent addition to the lineup!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on December 05, 2020, 01:15:18 PM
3 songs up now... A lot went into this album it seems.

 Witherfall release new single "Another Face”, off their new album “Curse Of Autumn” out March 5, 2021 

Witherfall release new single "Another Face”, off their new album “Curse Of Autumn” out March 5, 2021

“Another Face” is the third single taken from “Curse Of Autumn”, the upcoming album from Los Angeles-based dark melodic metallers WITHERFALL. Helmed by vocalist/keyboardist Joseph Michael (Sanctuary), guitarist Jake Dreyer (Iced Earth), bassist Anthony Crawford (Chon), and drummer Marco Minnemann (The Aristocrats), WITHERFALL’s new configuration aligns the brightest stars.

WITHERFALL enlisted Bradley Cook (Slash) to track the drums at Doghouse Studios and Jon Schaffer (Iced Earth/ Demons & Wizards) to produce (with Michael/Dreyer) at Independence Hall. Jim Morris (Savatage) engineered and mixed, while Tom Morris (Trans-Siberian Orchestra) mastered at Morrisound Recording. Adorned by a striking Kristian Wåhlin cover and supported by a visually stunning Zev Deans (Ghost, BEHEMOTH!…) video for “As I Lie Awake,” the “Curse of Autumn” is peak WITHERFALL.

Stream and Pre-order here

https://witherfallband.lnk.to/CurseOfAutumnID

Watch The Video for "As I Lie Awake"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFbrq-n17Gs

Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Mister Gold on December 06, 2020, 08:13:50 AM
Yeah, I really dig all three songs they've released for the album so far. It sounds like Curse of Autumn will probably be the band's most diverse album yet. Obviously The Last Scar was super heavy and aggressive, but man As I Lie Awake and Another Face are both really melodic and memorable. I get a lot of "Queen meets King Diamond" vibes from Another Face.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: 0u81234 on January 09, 2021, 11:44:08 PM
I really hope no one turns their back on these guys because of Schaffer’s actions. It’s clear that they hired Jon because Jake worked with him in IE and D&W. If they lose listeners because of Schaffer I think it’s very unfair. It’s probably pretty likely Jake will turn full time to Witherfall and it’s just not cool to think him and the rest of Iced Earth, Demons And BG are being thrown into Jons political stance. Go look at all of Witherfall members social medias. Any right wing conspiracy stuff? Their long time bass player is black for gods sakes. Does anyone think these guys are actually racist?!?
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Samsara on January 10, 2021, 09:41:43 AM
I don't think anyone will lose interest. Yeah, Jon produced it, but the band is Witherfall, and they played on the record, and as far as I know, wrote all the material.

I don't know the ins and outs of how involved Jon was -- did he mix it? Did he engineer the sessions? If all he did was produce it, then I don't think people will care.

Personally, as much as it pains me to say, I can't support anything Jon has a major hand in creatively going forward (IE or D&W). I can't say one thing, and then say another with my wallet. But the Witherfall record is something in a different category, at least to me.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: 0u81234 on January 10, 2021, 07:52:05 PM
I respect your opinion and glad you are not throwing any of the people associated with Schaffer under the bus and costing them business. Although I personally believe in separating art from the artist. It’s just unjust to have any of Schaffer’s employers or associates  run over by this. Schaffer is pretty hardcore with his views which have been public. I believe these guys and most of everyone he works with were just getting a paycheck and agreed with his lunacy for keeping a job.  I am sure with Witherfall they used him for his name which is completely tainted now. I mean Jake and Joseph have produced all the other releases up until COA. Anyone else curious as to how this release will unfold?
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on January 10, 2021, 09:34:32 PM
This is terrible. What a sad day for Metal and music in general. As for Witherfall,

Jon didn't write any of the music, he wasn't even the sole producer. Joseph and Jake still co-produced.

https://www.revolvermag.com/music/hear-la-melodic-metal-act-witherfalls-soaring-new-song-another-face

Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Mister Gold on January 10, 2021, 10:32:18 PM
I don't think anyone will lose interest. Yeah, Jon produced it, but the band is Witherfall, and they played on the record, and as far as I know, wrote all the material.

I don't know the ins and outs of how involved Jon was -- did he mix it? Did he engineer the sessions? If all he did was produce it, then I don't think people will care.

Personally, as much as it pains me to say, I can't support anything Jon has a major hand in creatively going forward (IE or D&W). I can't say one thing, and then say another with my wallet. But the Witherfall record is something in a different category, at least to me.

Yeah, this is where I'm at too. I've just been curious as to what the band and Century Media might do in response to Jon's actions, if anything at all.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: 0u81234 on January 11, 2021, 03:50:00 AM
I don't think anyone will lose interest. Yeah, Jon produced it, but the band is Witherfall, and they played on the record, and as far as I know, wrote all the material.

I don't know the ins and outs of how involved Jon was -- did he mix it? Did he engineer the sessions? If all he did was produce it, then I don't think people will care.

Personally, as much as it pains me to say, I can't support anything Jon has a major hand in creatively going forward (IE or D&W). I can't say one thing, and then say another with my wallet. But the Witherfall record is something in a different category, at least to me.

Yeah, this is where I'm at too. I've just been curious as to what the band and Century Media might do in response to Jon's actions, if anything at all.



Who knows I don’t even know if it’s warranted. Again these guys just worked with Schaffer... I am sure it’s just business to keep your head down and draw no more attention. His act was career suicide and no one wants to be there cleaning up the mess. According to FB Witherfall is promoting a new video drop Friday so I can only imagine the board room meetings these guys and the Century Media label reps are trying to wash their hands of. I have worked in companies before where a PR strategy has been crucial for a crisis like this and it’s basically a moment where they are trying not to alienate any of their fans.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: NoFred on January 14, 2021, 11:31:18 PM
JS is a bad credit, but in the past and already forgotten to me (not an IE listener)

WOW! New single is available and as far as I’m concerned this album is 4/4 so far, with Last Scar and Another Face as major highlights. I think this album will be great, and hope they break out with it.  :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on February 24, 2021, 12:28:09 PM
Reviews are all above 95%

https://manofmuchmetal.com/2021/02/24/witherfall-curse-of-autumn-album-review/
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Mister Gold on March 05, 2021, 12:29:49 AM
Man, so glad the album is finally out! Loving it so far on my first listen! :metal

I'll have to sit on this for a few days at least to be sure, I think, but I'd wager this is probably Witherfall's best album yet. Really hope Marco stays onboard as the drummer moving forward.

EDIT: Okay, yeah, I think it's a very safe bet already that this is the band's best album. That last song just topped the list alone.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: NoFred on March 05, 2021, 01:40:38 AM
Yes this is good :metal

Loving the songs I haven’t heard yet as singles.

Damn they’re just in full control right now.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Mister Gold on March 05, 2021, 03:05:37 AM
Yes this is good :metal

Loving the songs I haven’t heard yet as singles.

Damn they’re just in full control right now.

Yeah, Tempest and And They All Blew Away in particular are masterstrokes. The latter is like mostly like a blend of Arch/Matheos, Awake-era Dream Theater and Control Denied, with a hint of Savatage and King Diamond thrown in for good measure- and I love it.

I can't wait to see where the band goes next! :metal :metal :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Grappler on March 05, 2021, 11:40:00 AM
I'm looking forward to diving into the new album over the next week.  I've really enjoyed the singles that have been released so far.   :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: The Walrus on March 05, 2021, 11:41:51 AM
The record is good, despite who's fronting the band and who produced it. I'm not going to lie, I greatly enjoyed the heavy Iced Earth sound of the first real song.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on March 05, 2021, 02:17:53 PM
The record is good, despite who's fronting the band

You don't like the singer?
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: The Walrus on March 05, 2021, 02:20:03 PM
The record is good, despite who's fronting the band

You don't like the singer?

He's been a colossal douchebag to friends of mine and other people I know, and friends of friends. In person he was nothing but nice to me, but I don't like the way he has talked to other people. I imagine he's the brains behind their marketing with the gross, fake looking LA models - which I personally don't fault them for, business is business, but the marketing is so hamfisted and gross.

If we're talking about him as The Singer, yeah, he rocks, I really like his voice and I love the band's music.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on March 05, 2021, 03:17:39 PM
I was going to buy the CD but it's $16.98 at Amazon. I waited to see if the price dropped today and nope. Fuck. I'd prefer a hard copy, but I'll have to buy the download at $7 cheaper.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on March 05, 2021, 03:18:41 PM
I'm not going to lie, I greatly enjoyed the heavy Iced Earth sound of the first real song.

Reminded me of King Diamond.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: 0u81234 on March 05, 2021, 08:55:59 PM
The bass line on Tempest  :o amazing record. My favorites are Tempest and All Blew Away
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Grappler on March 07, 2021, 06:53:53 PM
The new album is hitting me harder than the first two did.  There's more of an immediacy that I'm feeling, where I'm really connecting with it and digging the songs right away.  The first two albums felt like there was too much to unpack, musically and vocally.  I feel like this is a huge step for the guys' songwriting abilities.

That and Joseph is just killing it on the album.  His vocals are so outstanding - so many layers, highs, lows, melodic stuff, harsher stuff.  I'm really impressed by this album!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Samsara on March 10, 2021, 08:38:35 AM
Funny, Grappler hit it on the head for me too. There is absolutely more of an immediacy on the record after my first listen. I felt the same as he did about the band's first two records -- the second one in particular. Not to say I don't like those records, I do. They seem to have dialed it in much better on this third record. Can't wait to listen to it again.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: The Realm on March 10, 2021, 02:45:53 PM
I am also really enjoying this new record more than the other two. I also think it is to do with the vocals and vocal melodies, they just seem more refined and developed. I have always appreciated the vocalists abilities, however I haven't really been a big fan of his vocals. I feel they have come across as forced in places in the past, but not so this time. The musicianship has always been stellar.


Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Mister Gold on March 11, 2021, 04:47:42 AM
The new album is hitting me harder than the first two did.  There's more of an immediacy that I'm feeling, where I'm really connecting with it and digging the songs right away.  The first two albums felt like there was too much to unpack, musically and vocally.  I feel like this is a huge step for the guys' songwriting abilities.

That and Joseph is just killing it on the album.  His vocals are so outstanding - so many layers, highs, lows, melodic stuff, harsher stuff.  I'm really impressed by this album!
Funny, Grappler hit it on the head for me too. There is absolutely more of an immediacy on the record after my first listen. I felt the same as he did about the band's first two records -- the second one in particular. Not to say I don't like those records, I do. They seem to have dialed it in much better on this third record. Can't wait to listen to it again.

I would argue that Nocturne & Requiems was pretty immediate, but A Prelude to Sorrow was definitely a grower. I think the thing with Curse of Autumn is a combination of both a return to the immediacy of N&R, along with the band having developed and matured their sound quite a fair bit in the time since.

Either way, I think we're all in agreement that this is the band's strongest offering yet. And it makes me all the happier that the band's gone on record that they want to keep working with Marco on drums moving forward. He's as perfect a fit for the band as they'll ever find, I suspect.

I am also really enjoying this new record more than the other two. I also think it is to do with the vocals and vocal melodies, they just seem more refined and developed. I have always appreciated the vocalists abilities, however I haven't really been a big fan of his vocals. I feel they have come across as forced in places in the past, but not so this time. The musicianship has always been stellar.

I've quite liked Joseph's performances on the previous two albums, but you can definitely hear a growth and progression with him. He's in top form on this album.

Also again, Marco is an insanely terrific fit for this band. Love his dynamics with Anthony on the rhythm section. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: NoFred on March 15, 2021, 11:18:47 PM
Funny, Grappler hit it on the head for me too. There is absolutely more of an immediacy on the record after my first listen. I felt the same as he did about the band's first two records -- the second one in particular. Not to say I don't like those records, I do. They seem to have dialed it in much better on this third record. Can't wait to listen to it again.

Immediacy is a good word to describe this one. Had a chance to listen a few times on the road over weekend... no complaints really liking the album composition too* (something I appreciated on Prelude were the interlude/transition pieces.) One thing about “immediacy” is it benefits the regular length songs but forces a few more listens to crack the longer ones. On first listen I felt and they all blew away was too much, tempest as well, and thought they could use some of the etherealness of Vintage etc. But now that I’m used to them, wow :o and like all good albums the great songs lift the less interesting ones when heard in context (thinking as I lie awake as the only one needing help)

*I saw in a review complaint about mood tracks like curse of autumn breaking the flow of the album. Whatever, I love that one and if the title track is a 2 minute interlude mid album?  :metal Also on my track list I’ve dropped the cover song, it’s cool and I hope it works out for them but the album has a clear ending without it
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Samsara on March 19, 2021, 11:14:40 AM
Cool. Yeah, it has continued to grow on me for sure. Listened a couple more times this week, and about to hit it up again shortly.  :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on March 27, 2021, 04:52:22 PM
Frontrunner for AOTY!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Zoom E on March 27, 2021, 05:29:45 PM
Frontrunner for AOTY!

Good to hear.  I'm still waiting for my copy to arrive in the mail. I pre-ordered it back in February  :huh:
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: NoFred on March 27, 2021, 09:21:20 PM
Frontrunner for AOTY!

Agreed!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Zoom E on April 24, 2021, 07:42:10 PM
Finally got my copy of Curse of Autumn yesterday, after an Amazon cock-up.  :angry:

After two listens I am really impressed with this. It’s a lot more dynamic than the last album.

I was not expecting the last track, Long Time, to be a cover of the Boston song, as I hadn't seen this mentioned anywhere. Witherfall have totally transformed the song though, and made it their own. It’s very well done.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: 0u81234 on May 02, 2021, 08:06:41 AM
You should check out the full version with Foreplay in the intro just released!  :metal

https://youtu.be/xlRHpPixO8U
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on December 29, 2021, 08:49:34 AM
Looks like they are doing the Dream Theater Drummer audition thing

https://apnews.com/press-release/prcom/entertainment-music-king-diamond-3503bafcb71a7217d66237d70f5d6b13
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on December 29, 2021, 08:56:52 AM
Looks like they are doing the Dream Theater Drummer audition thing

https://apnews.com/press-release/prcom/entertainment-music-king-diamond-3503bafcb71a7217d66237d70f5d6b13

Wow!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: SchecterShredder on January 13, 2022, 03:33:31 PM
Apparently they're searching wide and far for drummers. I bought their Curse of Autumn tab book, and as a result they must have added my email to their newsletter list. I got an audition email asking if I was 'able bodied' enough a musician to audition lol.

I was going to fly to Vancouver, BC to see Witherfall in April, but I'm reluctant to book now that they're without a drummer. As it was, I was concerned about them being able to enter Canada due to 'rona, but now this makes me really wonder if they'll be in show condition this spring.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: 0u81234 on January 14, 2022, 08:27:47 AM
Apparently they're searching wide and far for drummers. I bought their Curse of Autumn tab book, and as a result they must have added my email to their newsletter list. I got an audition email asking if I was 'able bodied' enough a musician to audition lol.

I was going to fly to Vancouver, BC to see Witherfall in April, but I'm reluctant to book now that they're without a drummer. As it was, I was concerned about them being able to enter Canada due to 'rona, but now this makes me really wonder if they'll be in show condition this spring.




How was the tab book? Did everything seem correct? I can’t tell you how many times I have gotten a bands “official” tab books and it’s been like. WTF.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: SchecterShredder on January 14, 2022, 09:13:50 AM
Apparently they're searching wide and far for drummers. I bought their Curse of Autumn tab book, and as a result they must have added my email to their newsletter list. I got an audition email asking if I was 'able bodied' enough a musician to audition lol.

I was going to fly to Vancouver, BC to see Witherfall in April, but I'm reluctant to book now that they're without a drummer. As it was, I was concerned about them being able to enter Canada due to 'rona, but now this makes me really wonder if they'll be in show condition this spring.



How was the tab book? Did everything seem correct? I can’t tell you how many times I have gotten a bands “official” tab books and it’s been like. WTF.

Top notch so far. There's no drum track though which is a bummer (i use the Guitar Pro tabs which came with the book, not the book itself). We've learned ...And they all blew away, As I Lie Awake, and Other Side of Fear with only minor issues on some of the harmonies. As you might expect, the songs are hard as hell. I think I spent more time learning ...And they all blew away than I did learning DT's Count of Tuscany and Untethered Angel combined.


Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: DT89 on January 14, 2022, 09:19:45 PM
Apparently they're searching wide and far for drummers. I bought their Curse of Autumn tab book, and as a result they must have added my email to their newsletter list. I got an audition email asking if I was 'able bodied' enough a musician to audition lol.

I was going to fly to Vancouver, BC to see Witherfall in April, but I'm reluctant to book now that they're without a drummer. As it was, I was concerned about them being able to enter Canada due to 'rona, but now this makes me really wonder if they'll be in show condition this spring.



How was the tab book? Did everything seem correct? I can’t tell you how many times I have gotten a bands “official” tab books and it’s been like. WTF.

Top notch so far. There's no drum track though which is a bummer (i use the Guitar Pro tabs which came with the book, not the book itself). We've learned ...And they all blew away, As I Lie Awake, and Other Side of Fear with only minor issues on some of the harmonies. As you might expect, the songs are hard as hell. I think I spent more time learning ...And they all blew away than I did learning DT's Count of Tuscany and Untethered Angel combined.
Thank you for buying the book! I did the transcribing from the isolated guitar tracks and worked with Jake to make sure everything was 100% accurate. Jake really went all out with the harmonies and layering on this album. If you guys have any questions about the book, I'll do my best to answer here. Here's a link to my website with a list of all my books so far: Evan Bradley Transcriptions (https://www.evanbradleytranscriptions.com/)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on February 09, 2022, 07:33:40 AM
Interesting story...

https://bravewords.com/news/witherfall-pro-replacement-drummer-ghosts-the-band-one-day-before-major-festival-vocalist-joseph-michael-tells-the-story-video
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: SchecterShredder on February 09, 2022, 09:05:29 AM
Interesting story...

https://bravewords.com/news/witherfall-pro-replacement-drummer-ghosts-the-band-one-day-before-major-festival-vocalist-joseph-michael-tells-the-story-video
Funny and shitty at the same time. I can only imagine what would go through your head if you never listened to Witherfall, and showed up at rehearsal hearing it for the first time. This is exactly why I'm avoiding booking to see Witherfall this spring. I have very limited faith they'll actually be able to roster a band in April.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on April 08, 2022, 12:04:10 PM
Apparently Witherfall were in the audience when john received the Grammy for Dream Theater!

https://fb.watch/cgcENzoH5U/
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: SchecterShredder on April 08, 2022, 12:31:35 PM
Yeah, they were nominated for their Boston cover.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: ProfessorPeart on August 15, 2022, 07:37:00 PM
I know there are a lot of fans here of these guys. Honestly, I have never heard them, but this really sucks for them.

https://bravewords.com/news/witherfall-comment-on-moonspell-s-cancellation-of-2022-north-american-tour-the-reality-of-the-math-is-we-will-eat-the-upfront-costs-of-over-12000


WITHERFALL Comment On MOONSPELL's Cancellation Of 2022 North American Tour - "The Reality Of The Math Is We Will Eat The Upfront Costs Of Over $12,000"

Earlier today, August 15th, Portuguese dark metal masters, Moonspell, announced the cancellation of their planned North American tour.

Says Moonspell: "We have no other option than to cancel our American Fullmoon tour with Swallow The Sun and Witherfall that would start August 25th in NY and end September 19th in Boston. Unsolvable logistic and transportation problems are the cause behind this cancellation.

Together with our agency, Moonspell and STS management tried all the options available but we have no other solution than cancelling. We thank you for your understanding and apologize for all the trouble caused."

Witherfall has since issued their own statement, which reads: "Witherfall has absolutely nothing to do with this tour cancellation. We found out during rehearsals that the tour had been pulled, one week before the band were set to fly out to pick up our Bus. Witherfall had every last production detail on our end completely solidified. Airline tickets, Bus, Trailer, Driver, Tour manager, Shipping of Tour merchandise (which has dates printed on them that no longer exist!!!) Rehearsals, Witherfall Beer at venues and countless other expenses that will not be reimbursed. Needless to say, we are devastated by this news.

Each one of the aforementioned pieces took months of planning and every detail was carefully managed making this endeavor very time consuming and VERY expensive. The reality of the math is Witherfall will need to eat the upfront costs of over $12K not including what our crew, and band members will lose because they turned down other work. None of these expenses will be recouped.

We apologize to our fans that has had plans that were affected. We had every intention of bearing the cost to put the band out on the road. Again, we had everything planned and were ready and excited to get to play and meet the fans coming out. We are extremely upset by this last minute rug pull. Even the best case scenario the band would still be operating at a loss but that is the price of bringing our music to you all.

If you'd like to purchase a souvenir of tour and support the band (Tour Funeral Expenses) you can get one of these packages or a shirt here -
https://witherfall.com/product/815277."
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on August 15, 2022, 07:51:55 PM
I gotta be honest. I didn't know about this tour anyway because Witherfall playing in Boston certainly would've gotten my attention.

I love the Witherfall albums. I have actually purchased them. But to beg ask us to spend $55 on a shirt and some other crap is cringey.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on August 15, 2022, 08:08:59 PM
I gotta be honest. I didn't know about this tour anyway because Witherfall playing in Boston certainly would've gotten my attention.

I love the Witherfall albums. I have actually purchased them. But to beg ask us to spend $55 on a shirt and some other crap is cringey.

Shirt,A Poster, A Tour Laynard/pass is a good price. Do you get your band merch at the DOllar General?

Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on August 15, 2022, 08:13:02 PM
I'll be 54 in a month. I don't buy band merch.

I buy the album. WTF am I going to do with a poster, or a lanyard?

$25 for the shirt, I'd consider it.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Grappler on August 16, 2022, 06:39:50 AM
I'll be 54 in a month. I don't buy band merch.

I buy the album. WTF am I going to do with a poster, or a lanyard?

$25 for the shirt, I'd consider it.

Same here, and despite having a man-cave area in my new home, I don't need any more posters or junk.  I'd happily buy a tour shirt from them for $25, if they were selling those separately.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on August 16, 2022, 11:24:37 AM
They are sold separately. 
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Samsara on August 16, 2022, 12:21:21 PM
On a different note, beyond pissed that the tour Witherfall was going to do with Moonspell has been canceled. I was going to see Witherfall and couldn't wait. Bummer. Moonspell said it was travel and logistic issues.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: cramx3 on August 16, 2022, 01:11:56 PM
I'll be 54 in a month. I don't buy band merch.

I buy the album. WTF am I going to do with a poster, or a lanyard?

$25 for the shirt, I'd consider it.

I'm sure this is more about cutting losses than selling merch to make a profit at this point  This stuff hurts these smaller bands a lot.  I do feel really bad for the band.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on August 16, 2022, 02:30:22 PM
I'll be 54 in a month. I don't buy band merch.

I buy the album. WTF am I going to do with a poster, or a lanyard?

$25 for the shirt, I'd consider it.

I'm sure this is more about cutting losses than selling merch to make a profit at this point  This stuff hurts these smaller bands a lot.  I do feel really bad for the band.

I know. I thought of my comments when I got up this morning and thought maybe they were a bit harsh. I'm just now able comment more. I'm sure it was awful for the band to have to make that statement. 12k is nothing to sneeze at. I have no clue how it works, but I wonder why those dates just couldn't be done anyway. I'd be interested in learning more about why it can't.

Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: cramx3 on August 16, 2022, 02:34:06 PM
I'll be 54 in a month. I don't buy band merch.

I buy the album. WTF am I going to do with a poster, or a lanyard?

$25 for the shirt, I'd consider it.

I'm sure this is more about cutting losses than selling merch to make a profit at this point  This stuff hurts these smaller bands a lot.  I do feel really bad for the band.

I know. I thought of my comments when I got up this morning and thought maybe they were a bit harsh. I'm just now able comment more. I'm sure it was awful for the band to have to make that statement. 12k is nothing to sneeze at. I have no clue how it works, but I wonder why those dates just couldn't be done anyway. I'd be interested in learning more about why it can't.

I'm curious too.  I think they said it was due to travel logistics but wouldn't that be sorted when the dates are booked? So you know you can make it to each stop?  I have no idea really.  When these things get cancelled I start to think it comes down to ticket sales being low.  But I honestly don't know and am not following this closely.  I knew this tour was happening and had it as a "unlikely, but we'll see when the show gets near" mostly because I saw Witherfall at Progpower and knowing they are the opener, I'd likely see about half of the set I already saw. 
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on August 16, 2022, 02:36:56 PM
I think Witherfall has made some of the most interesting music today on their last two albums.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: cramx3 on August 16, 2022, 02:57:27 PM
I only have the last one, Ill have to check out the others, but that's some high praise from you.  I liked the last one, but I don't think I rate it nearly as high.  I don't really come back to it very often.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Samsara on August 16, 2022, 03:19:00 PM
To be honest, I really liked the first Witherfall album. The second one less so, and the third really never got many spins. I should go back to it and see.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on August 16, 2022, 03:30:11 PM
Vintage is still one of my favorite songs from the last decade.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: SchecterShredder on August 16, 2022, 06:09:33 PM
Curse of Autumn is a fantastic record, front to back. And They All Blew Away is a masterpiece of a closer. These guys are like Dream Theater if Dream Theater were actually a metal band.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Samsara on August 16, 2022, 06:20:01 PM
Curse of Autumn is a fantastic record, front to back. And They All Blew Away is a masterpiece of a closer. These guys are like Dream Theater if Dream Theater were actually a metal band.

I'll give it another shot tomorrow.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on August 16, 2022, 06:40:05 PM
Curse Of Autumn is a GREAT album.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Grappler on August 16, 2022, 07:19:54 PM
Curse Of Autumn is a GREAT album.

I can agree with that - there were some more direct, straight-up metal songs on the album, which I appreciate more than some of the proggier stuff.  I felt that they really hit their stride with the third disc, showing more of a balance in the styles of songs.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Samsara on August 17, 2022, 09:38:03 AM
Just finished Curse of Autumn. See, this is why it's good to go back to things. I really enjoyed it.

That's the problem with the huge amount of music that comes down the pipe on an annual basis. You overlook things sometimes, or at least I do, because I can't spend as much time with it as I like to.

Anyway, thanks for the encouragement. Glad I relistened. I like it.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Grappler on August 17, 2022, 10:37:30 AM
They are sold separately.

Thanks for mentioning that - the link that the band put out with their little press release only shared the $55 package.   I just bought a tour shirt for $30. 

I did not buy one single piece of merch or live-stream event throughout the last 2 years to support any bands.  So I figured I was due - Witherfall is a badass band and it's awful that they lost out on a big tour one week before it was set to go and they had already incurred costs.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: DT89 on August 24, 2022, 12:20:03 PM
The tab book for A Prelude to Sorrow is available now. As with the Curse of Autumn book, I transcribed the songs and then edited with Jake to ensure that everything was 100% accurate.

A Prelude to Sorrow tab book (https://witherfall.com/product/820158)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Samsara on August 24, 2022, 12:33:47 PM
It really sucks the tour was canceled by Moonspell. Wish there was a way that Witherfall could book their own tour, but I know the logistics and costs are probably crazy right now. Sucks.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: SchecterShredder on August 24, 2022, 01:25:03 PM
The tab book for A Prelude to Sorrow is available now. As with the Curse of Autumn book, I transcribed the songs and then edited with Jake to ensure that everything was 100% accurate.

A Prelude to Sorrow tab book (https://witherfall.com/product/820158)
When's Nocturnes and Requiems coming down the pipe? That's the one I'm longing for.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: DT89 on August 24, 2022, 03:38:12 PM
The tab book for A Prelude to Sorrow is available now. As with the Curse of Autumn book, I transcribed the songs and then edited with Jake to ensure that everything was 100% accurate.

A Prelude to Sorrow tab book (https://witherfall.com/product/820158)
When's Nocturnes and Requiems coming down the pipe? That's the one I'm longing for.
No definite plans yet, but it sounds like they want to do that next.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: ProfessorPeart on August 24, 2022, 04:55:35 PM
I finally checked these guys out after I posted the news about the tour. I have all 3 albums on the way.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: SchecterShredder on August 24, 2022, 05:29:36 PM
I finally checked these guys out after I posted the news about the tour. I have all 3 albums on the way.
You're in for a real treat. Enjoy!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on August 24, 2022, 05:45:16 PM
Yeah, great stuff!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on January 07, 2023, 03:27:18 PM
Looks like Marco Minnemann has joined in the production again.
https://youtube.com/shorts/ixvxAOTfwes?feature=share
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: SchecterShredder on January 07, 2023, 05:14:42 PM
Pretty sure that was from the Curse of Autumn  sessions.  Sounds an awful lot like The Other Side of Fear.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: devieira73 on January 07, 2023, 07:01:21 PM
Looks like Marco Minnemann has joined in the production again.
https://youtube.com/shorts/ixvxAOTfwes?feature=share
It's confirmed by Marco in his Facebook:
https://fb.watch/hVTk7RfVrA/?mibextid=6aamW6
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: TAC on January 07, 2023, 07:04:09 PM
Awesome. Glad they're making another album. Every one of their albums has been fantastic.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: SchecterShredder on January 07, 2023, 07:27:10 PM
Looks like Marco Minnemann has joined in the production again.
https://youtube.com/shorts/ixvxAOTfwes?feature=share
It's confirmei by Marco in his Facebook:
https://fb.watch/hVTk7RfVrA/?mibextid=6aamW6
Interesting.  That's some welcome news,  indeed.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on January 07, 2023, 10:22:39 PM
Pretty sure that was from the Curse of Autumn  sessions.  Sounds an awful lot like The Other Side of Fear.
it was posted today... I don't hear "Other Side" here
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Samsara on January 09, 2023, 08:30:03 AM
I know this isn't unusual today, but I find it amazing that this band is now doing their fourth album, and probably has only played a dozen shows together. I think it's a testament to their chemistry and the quality of the albums. I was bummed that their tour was cancelled. I had a ticket to see them open for...I think it was Moonspell? I forget who it was.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: cramx3 on January 09, 2023, 08:34:30 AM
I know this isn't unusual today, but I find it amazing that this band is now doing their fourth album, and probably has only played a dozen shows together. I think it's a testament to their chemistry and the quality of the albums. I was bummed that their tour was cancelled. I had a ticket to see them open for...I think it was Moonspell? I forget who it was.

Yeah that was Moonspell. 

What's the issue with the drummer?  I thought they just got a new permanent one? Or is Marco just helping out for the recording?
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Grappler on January 09, 2023, 10:29:21 AM
Looking forward to a new record - they are getting better with each album and are one of my favorite new acts. 

Also, I just saw something within the last month that Joseph was FINALLY in the studio and recording with Sanctuary.  That album has the potential to be absolutely scorching! 
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: SchecterShredder on January 09, 2023, 11:31:20 AM
I know this isn't unusual today, but I find it amazing that this band is now doing their fourth album, and probably has only played a dozen shows together. I think it's a testament to their chemistry and the quality of the albums. I was bummed that their tour was cancelled. I had a ticket to see them open for...I think it was Moonspell? I forget who it was.

Yeah that was Moonspell. 

What's the issue with the drummer?  I thought they just got a new permanent one? Or is Marco just helping out for the recording?
New drummer Chris had a full time job as a lawyer, so maybe he dropped the band side hustle after the tour was canceled? And it looks like Alex is nowhere to be seen. Is he gone?

I'm shocked these guys can even still make music given they do absolutely no touring. These guys are in my top 3 for bands. I'd love to catch them live someday.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: cramx3 on January 09, 2023, 11:36:19 AM
Oh damn, being a lawyer and having a side hustle is a very busy life.  But could work if the band wasn't a touring act, which they basically aren't.  Sucks, I have no idea how you get on a tour, but I agree, I don't know how a band makes money unless everyone's got a full time job and basically paying to have the band on the side?  They make good music, I'd love to see them be able to do this full time and hit the road. 
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: SchecterShredder on January 09, 2023, 01:31:04 PM
I remember an interview with Synyster Gates from A7X where he claimed 90% of their income is from touring and merch sales. You need to be selling a shit load of physical records to make much off album sales (used to be about $1 profit for an artist on a CD sale). Streaming services pay artists a pittance, sadly. The era of bands selling millions of albums are long gone.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on January 09, 2023, 02:24:46 PM
Everyone in the band is a full time musician. (The Core Members Joseph, Jake and Anthony) If you follow the band they have always had session musicians on the recordings.


Alex was replaced. I'm not sure if he ever even played on a record though. Joseph is credited with Keyboards.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8a4-F0YnFk
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: SchecterShredder on January 10, 2023, 10:24:45 AM
Everyone in the band is a full time musician. (The Core Members Joseph, Jake and Anthony) If you follow the band they have always had session musicians on the recordings.


Alex was replaced. I'm not sure if he ever even played on a record though. Joseph is credited with Keyboards.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8a4-F0YnFk

Interesting. I get their email newsletter, and when I read about the additional guitarist it was presented as a touring session player. I assumed it was an extra hired gun for the live shows to provide a more complete sound with the guitar harmonies.

At any rate, I'm looking forward to new music from these guys. Every album so far has been gold, and only getting better.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: DT89 on April 13, 2023, 12:28:08 PM
Nocturnes and Requiems tab book is available now, transcribed by yours truly: https://www.witherfall.com/product/892530 (https://www.witherfall.com/product/892530)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: SchecterShredder on April 13, 2023, 12:47:26 PM
Funny that i just read the email about it,  and figured there would be a post here. I will absolutely be making a purchase
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on April 13, 2023, 12:51:30 PM
Will you do the EP as well?
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: DT89 on April 13, 2023, 01:24:32 PM
Funny that i just read the email about it,  and figured there would be a post here. I will absolutely be making a purchase
Thanks for your support!

Will you do the EP as well?
I doubt it.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on April 29, 2023, 04:21:03 PM
There is some footage from the new album has Marco on Drums and Zeuss working with them.

 :metal

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CrmSKwEvIcq/?hl=en
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on August 31, 2023, 08:20:45 PM
Funny that i just read the email about it,  and figured there would be a post here. I will absolutely be making a purchase
Thanks for your support!

Will you do the EP as well?
I doubt it.

Looks like a new song is coming out.

 :metal

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJDCOyH0z8M&lc=UgxrauyWAsRTp6VSu-94AaABAg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJDCOyH0z8M&lc=UgxrauyWAsRTp6VSu-94AaABAg)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: NoFred on September 02, 2023, 07:03:00 AM
Can’t wait for new Witherfall. A footnote on the pre-order page hints at by 12/21, hope the full album isn’t that long of a wait. More importantly hope they get to tour this thing next year.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Samsara on September 05, 2023, 04:18:00 PM
More importantly hope they get to tour this thing next year.

Agreed. I was pumped for that tour they were doing. Had a ticket was ready to rage. The headliners canceling just sucked. I was only going for Witherfall.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: cramx3 on September 05, 2023, 04:56:28 PM
Yeah, hopefully they can get a tour going. 
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - CURSE OF AUTUMN Coming March 2021
Post by: Mister Gold on October 27, 2023, 09:07:01 AM
More importantly hope they get to tour this thing next year.

Agreed. I was pumped for that tour they were doing. Had a ticket was ready to rage. The headliners canceling just sucked. I was only going for Witherfall.

Yeah, it's high time these guys finally get a chance to do a proper tour.

Also, as an aside, the band just released a new single ("Insidious")! Almost certainly the most aggressive song they've ever done, I think. Very promising for the rest of the new album, whenever that comes out! :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: SchecterShredder on October 27, 2023, 09:35:02 AM
I think they have some harder hitting tunes. The Other Side of Fear, for one. Nevertheless, that's a solid opening track for the record. I think I prefer the first 3 tracks they released from Curse of Autumn, but man... from the 4min mark of Insidious onward I couldn't help but smile.
I'm very much looking forward to this album!
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: Grappler on October 27, 2023, 12:39:37 PM
The new song is great!  Joseph gets to use some different voices throughout, and there's a definite King Diamond vibe musically in some spots.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: SchecterShredder on October 27, 2023, 02:42:42 PM
I've listened to the track a good 5 or 6 times now. Fan-fucking-tastic.  If this is setting the tone for the album, then they've done it again! Each album has been better than the last, and this is a good start to continuing that trend.

Insidious has some Nocturnes vibes in Jake's playing, and even the overall tone of the song.  But it sounds more mature. For my money, he's one of the best shredders out there right now. He's got the speed. He's got creative phrasings. He can play a melodic solo that would set you to tears.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: Mister Gold on October 27, 2023, 08:26:18 PM
I've listened to the track a good 5 or 6 times now. Fan-fucking-tastic.  If this is setting the tone for the album, then they've done it again! Each album has been better than the last, and this is a good start to continuing that trend.

Insidious has some Nocturnes vibes in Jake's playing, and even the overall tone of the song.  But it sounds more mature. For my money, he's one of the best shredders out there right now. He's got the speed. He's got creative phrasings. He can play a melodic solo that would set you to tears.

Yeah, I agree with you on the similarities to Nocturnes. And I agree, the band just continues to get better and better with each album. Samsara mentioned it awhile back, but it's a testament to how strong the chemistry is with this band that they continue to grow like this with each album, despite the lack of regular tours and live shows.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: NoFred on October 29, 2023, 12:06:59 AM
Great track, sounds like two songs smashed together… something from curse and something from nocturnes to close it out. Looking forward to what’s next
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: Mister Gold on October 29, 2023, 10:53:19 AM
Great track, sounds like two songs smashed together… something from curse and something from nocturnes to close it out. Looking forward to what’s next

Indeed. Apparently Witherfall are no longer signed onto Century Media and have instead launched their own new record label, DeathWave Records. Going off of the band's email announcement, Joseph and Jake intend to release other albums outside of Witherfall through the label, so I'm intrigued to find out more on that matter. The first guess I have is that Joseph's album with Sanctuary will probably release on DeathWave too, but I wonder if this means Jake has any plans for another solo album or a side-project too?
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: Samsara on October 31, 2023, 08:27:45 AM
Finally checking out the new song and video. Dig the track. Fingers crossed the album smokes and WE GET A TOUR. I know it is really hard for acts the size of Witherfall to tour and actually make ends meet and not suffer a loss. But man, this has to happen.

I will give Witherfall this. They have tried to capitalize on everything to make a buck. Patreon, merch sales, everything you can think of to make the band profitable. Smart move. The albums are killer. But for me personally, I want to see a band live first before I become a merch guy. I bought all the music. Need to see 'em live before I become a paid supporter all the time.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: SchecterShredder on October 31, 2023, 08:43:40 AM
*steps onto his soapbox*

I'm more apt to buy merch from a band like Witherfall because that's one of the few ways I can support them. I really fancy Avenged Sevenfold. I paid my $120, and saw them live on their Life is but a Dream tour (as well as all but 1 tour of theirs in the last 15 years). I will not buy their albums, or any merch. They don't need it. They can take the pittance from the 1000's of streams they'll get from me on Apple Music, and enjoy being millionaires from their long and lucrative careers. Witherfall, on the other hand, needs the support from merch and physical album sales. And they certainly deserve it. I don't think it's fair to say "I love the music, they write great songs, but I won't support them unless I can see if they sound good live". Hell, I own Curse of Autumn on vinyl, and I don't even have a record player lol. It's just a lovely piece of art I keep on the wall of my home studio.

If you like the band, and like the music, you ought to support them.

*steps off his soapbox*
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: Samsara on October 31, 2023, 10:40:37 AM
I have purchased physical copies of all of Witherfall's albums. So don't preach to me about supporting bands. I buy shirts and other things once I've seen a band live. Over my lifetime, I've probably spent over $50k on concert tickets and merch. Respectfully, don't preach to me. You do you, I'll do me.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: Mister Gold on October 31, 2023, 01:23:40 PM
Finally checking out the new song and video. Dig the track. Fingers crossed the album smokes and WE GET A TOUR. I know it is really hard for acts the size of Witherfall to tour and actually make ends meet and not suffer a loss. But man, this has to happen.

I will give Witherfall this. They have tried to capitalize on everything to make a buck. Patreon, merch sales, everything you can think of to make the band profitable. Smart move. The albums are killer. But for me personally, I want to see a band live first before I become a merch guy. I bought all the music. Need to see 'em live before I become a paid supporter all the time.

In the band's defense, I've personally gotten the impression that Jake and Joseph both very much want to tour as Witherfall more often. I could be wrong, but that's just been the general impression I've had of them since Nocturnes & Requiems first came out in 2017. But on account of a) their OG drummer passing away on the cusp of the debut album's release, b) a wild series of events that had rotating drummers and supporting musicians, c) a once-in-a-century type global pandemic and d) the frontline band of a planned tour dropping out out of nowhere, they've had some rather awful luck in getting onto the stage on a more regular and frequent basis.

And I'm hoping that since they seem to have a stable lineup now, they might be able to finally go out and tour more regularly.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: cramx3 on October 31, 2023, 01:35:08 PM
Finally checking out the new song and video. Dig the track. Fingers crossed the album smokes and WE GET A TOUR. I know it is really hard for acts the size of Witherfall to tour and actually make ends meet and not suffer a loss. But man, this has to happen.

I will give Witherfall this. They have tried to capitalize on everything to make a buck. Patreon, merch sales, everything you can think of to make the band profitable. Smart move. The albums are killer. But for me personally, I want to see a band live first before I become a merch guy. I bought all the music. Need to see 'em live before I become a paid supporter all the time.

*steps onto his soapbox*

I'm more apt to buy merch from a band like Witherfall because that's one of the few ways I can support them. I really fancy Avenged Sevenfold. I paid my $120, and saw them live on their Life is but a Dream tour (as well as all but 1 tour of theirs in the last 15 years). I will not buy their albums, or any merch. They don't need it. They can take the pittance from the 1000's of streams they'll get from me on Apple Music, and enjoy being millionaires from their long and lucrative careers. Witherfall, on the other hand, needs the support from merch and physical album sales. And they certainly deserve it. I don't think it's fair to say "I love the music, they write great songs, but I won't support them unless I can see if they sound good live". Hell, I own Curse of Autumn on vinyl, and I don't even have a record player lol. It's just a lovely piece of art I keep on the wall of my home studio.

If you like the band, and like the music, you ought to support them.

*steps off his soapbox*

I think both are valid viewpoints.  Each of us only have so much money to spend. Personally I put a lot of live stock into a live performance, so I lean a bit more towards Samsara's feelings, but Mister has a good point that the band that can't tour may need the money more. At the end of the day, you support what you can and what you want. 

Having said that, I didn't care for the single.  It may just be a style that's not for me.  The vocals are all hitting a part of the band's music that I'm not really that into.  Maybe the rest of the songs will be more up my alley.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: SchecterShredder on October 31, 2023, 01:48:09 PM
Interesting take. Lyrically, I don't care for many of the tracks from Curse or the new single. Vocally, however, I think Joseph Michael is what James Labrie should be. JM has grit when he needs it, and can still hit the falsetto range. Remains to (hopefully) be seen if he can sing like that live, but I think he's top shelf in the singing department. Often, the singer ruins an otherwise good band for me. That's not the case with Witherfall.

As for the single, the first spin didn't sit all that well with me until the instrumental section at 3:53. Now that I've been listening mostly on repeat for a few days, I absolutely love the track. The slow part in the middle could be a touch shorter, but it works in the context of the story.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: Grappler on October 31, 2023, 09:24:32 PM
Remains to (hopefully) be seen if he can sing like that live, but I think he's top shelf in the singing department. Often, the singer ruins an otherwise good band for me. That's not the case with Witherfall.

Joseph can sing his ass off live.  Samsara and I can attest to that - we both saw him front Sanctuary in 2018.  He was godly on that tour and seemed to be channeling Warrel's spirit those nights.  I actually closed my eyes during The Mirror Black and pictured Warrel as he sang and couldn't tell the difference.  He's a perfect fit for that band. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHgCVFn88e4

I have purchased physical copies of all of Witherfall's albums. So don't preach to me about supporting bands. I buy shirts and other things once I've seen a band live. Over my lifetime, I've probably spent over $50k on concert tickets and merch. Respectfully, don't preach to me. You do you, I'll do me.

c

This is where I'm at.  I've spent the same on cd's, concert tickets and t-shirts over the last 30 years and I'm allowed to be choosy now that I'm 43 with a house and a family to support.  I did buy the Witherfall tour shirt from the band last year because I felt bad for them having their tour pulled out from under them.  And I never did any of those pandemic live streams either, so that was my one time to support a band. 
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: cramx3 on November 01, 2023, 11:11:24 AM
Remains to (hopefully) be seen if he can sing like that live, but I think he's top shelf in the singing department. Often, the singer ruins an otherwise good band for me. That's not the case with Witherfall.

Joseph can sing his ass off live.  Samsara and I can attest to that - we both saw him front Sanctuary in 2018.  He was godly on that tour and seemed to be channeling Warrel's spirit those nights.  I actually closed my eyes during The Mirror Black and pictured Warrel as he sang and couldn't tell the difference.  He's a perfect fit for that band. 

This made me just go back and check my videos from Sanctuary and Witherfall from seeing them at Progpowers...

he sounds pretty good, timestamped for screams in both songs:

Witherfall - Tempest LIVE @ ProgPower USA XXI Center Stage Atlanta GA 6/3/2022 (https://youtu.be/CyedV77TTkM?si=ETvaWQpU7MCuUBbf&t=95)

Sanctuary - White Rabbit LIVE @ ProgPower XX 9/4/2019 (https://youtu.be/RWUEiA8PU3A?si=GSRemq76ZSFyI-5W&t=47)
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on November 01, 2023, 11:24:10 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TWfrv5NkKc

There are about 10 screams in a row here.


Witherfall have made plenty of live appearances so i don't know where this doubt about pulling off vocals live is coming from.



Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: SchecterShredder on November 01, 2023, 01:21:38 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TWfrv5NkKc

There are about 10 screams in a row here.


Witherfall have made plenty of live appearances so i don't know where this doubt about pulling off vocals live is coming from.
That's also a music video using the professionally recorded version of the song. Not a live singing of the song. Clearly he can sing in a studio. He's practically fucking legendary, in my opinion.


I wouldn't say I doubt Joseph's ability to sing live so much as I had only seen a handful of poorly recorded youtube videos until today. It's also not uncommon for a singer to lay down great tracks in the studio, but no be able to hold a tune on a stage. That rendition of The Tempest on Cram's channel is pretty damn solid though, so that doesn't appear to be the case here at all.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: cramx3 on November 01, 2023, 01:24:54 PM
I'm not sure anyone was really saying anything bad about the live vocals, just that they hadn't experienced them

I followed up with some live videos showing the vocals are solid live.  I'd actually say the response was the opposite of doubt.

And yeah, sharing the music video doesn't really give an example of live vocals. But I'm not doubting you, I think we are all in agreement actually
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: Samsara on November 02, 2023, 12:09:06 PM
I saw Joseph sing for Sanctuary. He blew me away.

My video of "Battle Angels" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-A5EabVi2M
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: 0u81234 on November 02, 2023, 10:32:03 PM
Ok, deep Witherfall analysis:

Vintage
All blew away
Sacrifice

Is there another epic on this record?

Insidious is good. I like the nocturnes elements in the bridge. (As mentioned) Feels like something might be brewing. Witherfall records are not one size fits all. As I have learned.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: 0u81234 on November 02, 2023, 10:35:26 PM
Ok, deep Witherfall analysis:

Vintage
All blew away
Sacrifice

Is there another epic on this record?

Insidious is good. I like the nocturnes elements in the bridge. (As mentioned) Feels like something might be brewing. Witherfall records are not one size fits all. As I have learned.

I meant Nobody Sleeps Here… off the first record. Sacrifice works too for epics.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on December 01, 2023, 09:17:14 AM
OMG that new album cover and song!

Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: SchecterShredder on December 01, 2023, 07:23:19 PM
OMG that new album cover and song!



Yup. May can't come soon enough. These guys are killing it. New guitar/keys/backup vocal guy (Gerry?) is a great add. He harmonizes quite well with JM
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on December 05, 2023, 06:04:53 PM
Which song do you like more? I really liked "Insidious"
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - New Single INSIDIOUS Out Now
Post by: SchecterShredder on December 05, 2023, 08:19:34 PM
I'm also leaning to Insidious. There's lots to like amount Ceremony of Fire; but the instrumental coming out of the slow part of Insidious is some of the best Witherfall prog, IMO. And the song hits hard.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: Mister Gold on December 08, 2023, 07:02:01 PM
Very excited to hear the rest of the album! Love both singles so far. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: TAC on December 08, 2023, 07:12:47 PM
Very excited to hear the rest of the album! Love both singles so far. :metal
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on January 09, 2024, 11:33:46 AM
Witherfall Power Ballad!

https://open.spotify.com/track/6TMkwOLdLD6hl7LszOSUeX?si=be974cbae396400c (https://open.spotify.com/track/6TMkwOLdLD6hl7LszOSUeX?si=be974cbae396400c)

Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: SchecterShredder on January 09, 2024, 11:55:53 AM
Witherfall Power Ballad!

https://open.spotify.com/track/6TMkwOLdLD6hl7LszOSUeX?si=be974cbae396400c (https://open.spotify.com/track/6TMkwOLdLD6hl7LszOSUeX?si=be974cbae396400c)

LOL, I was just coming on here to post about it.

I'm digging the track. Joseph's vocals are something to behold so far on this album. Just astounding. This band is severely under appreciated. I get that melo-death-prog is a very niche genre, but holy shit these guys are top notch.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: DT89 on January 12, 2024, 09:47:37 AM
I will be doing a livestream with the Witherfall guys this Sunday to talk all things guitar tab and transcribing! We'll be answering questions in the chat, so I hope you guys can join us at 8:15 PM EST. If you can't make it to the live airing, feel free to leave a comment with your question here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hj9xM0Wq8II
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on February 13, 2024, 01:09:14 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2UB95ULdDU

This song is crazy.

Wonder what this song is about?

The mood pervading the "Sounds Of The Forgotten" writing sessions was one of frustration and sadness.
Already our current decade has seen a disproportionate amount of strife we were barely at the beginning of it. Just as we were starting to see some light at the end of the "plague" then the real bogey that lurks in the shadows showed itself. We take no comfort in that the most devastating virus to plague our civilization this decade is not Covid it is misinformation.

What Have You Done?

At the beginning of composing the song we had a feeling it was going to be the albums closing piece.the three movements that carry you through to it's musical conclusion mirrored real life for us in a profound way.  The song is an ode to despair. A dark reminder that like Icarus we are all fallible and prone to misdeeds. Hopefully that light at the end of the tunnel we thought we were seeing can make it's way to us and shine a light into a brighter future.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: Grappler on February 13, 2024, 01:24:59 PM
Wonder what this song is about?

It's pretty self explanatory in the lyrics, which are included in the youtube description.  It's about people who fall down the internet/social media misinformation rabbit hole.  I've lost a few family members to that stuff.

As for the song, it went by pretty quickly for a 10 minute tune.  Not sure I like Joseph's melody in the chorus, which comes off like an anti-chorus, but that ending scream is  :metal

Still looking forward to the album.  This band always impresses me, even if I don't always dig every single song.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: SchecterShredder on February 13, 2024, 02:12:34 PM
Wonder what this song is about?

It's pretty self explanatory in the lyrics, which are included in the youtube description.  It's about people who fall down the internet/social media misinformation rabbit hole.  I've lost a few family members to that stuff.

As for the song, it went by pretty quickly for a 10 minute tune.  Not sure I like Joseph's melody in the chorus, which comes off like an anti-chorus, but that ending scream is  :metal

Still looking forward to the album.  This band always impresses me, even if I don't always dig every single song.

I can get behind that sentiment. The chorus sounds...off somehow.

For me, What Have You Done? is the weakest of the tracks released so far. It has its moments, no doubt, but overall it doesn't have the same punch as the other three tracks. Mind you, that's after just a single listen. Plenty of their songs have grown on me after a few spins. So far, Songs of the Forgotten is trending on par with Curse of Autumn, and that's saying something.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: The Realm on February 13, 2024, 03:59:35 PM
Yeah, that chorus is weird. The vocal melody feels dissonant to the music, would be tough to sing I'd say. Can't say I like it much.

Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: 0u81234 on February 14, 2024, 05:04:47 AM
This one Is my favorite I also love the prog elements. Reminds me of a cousin of “Tempest” or even a little “Vintage” although more classic rock.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: ProfessorPeart on February 14, 2024, 07:38:55 AM
The vocal melody feels dissonant to the music

Did John Arch help write it?
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on February 14, 2024, 02:51:22 PM
Yeah, that chorus is weird. The vocal melody feels dissonant to the music, would be tough to sing I'd say. Can't say I like it much.

The vocal starts on the 9th tone. Not really dissonant at all.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: The Realm on February 14, 2024, 03:03:26 PM
The vocal melody feels dissonant to the music

Did John Arch help write it?

It does have a bit of a John Arch feel so maybe....
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: EVILPROGBOY on February 14, 2024, 03:06:24 PM
Don't hear that at all
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: devieira73 on March 21, 2024, 04:29:53 PM
https://open.spotify.com/album/2KmG0dHeJB6X1CIjjeVxg1?si=wwnpmbqCQ2SIUg7RfhUIGg
It seems like this album will be even better than the last one!
I've read that they will release one more single before the album.
I made a playlist with these songs closer to the album order, but not starting with a ballad:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1oXl6epywq0lLbi0krQpdf?si=dhVNU-mCQVC_efjtLfE93A&pi=u-gW9gRNSoQySE
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: SchecterShredder on March 21, 2024, 07:08:24 PM
The bio on their website says they plan to release 7 singles from the album,  so I'm wondering if there's 2 more tracks coming? I do find it odd they put lonely path after Insidious on the EP release. Can't imagine why.

In the age of streaming  the model makes more sense to release monthly to keep feeding the algorithms, eventually culminating in a full album. A YouTube guitarist i follow,  Bernth, started doing this. He broke down the math in one of his videos to compare what happened after he started treating spotify like YouTube.
Title: Re: The WITHERFALL Thread - SOUNDS OF THE FORGOTTEN out on May 31, 2024
Post by: MinistroRaven on March 27, 2024, 08:47:01 AM
New single coming out in 40 hours

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNzjfUJs-44