The Crusader 2

HAIL THE CHILDREN OF METAL!!!!!!!!

We are back!!!! With a considerably bigger scripture this time. There is no stopping the power of Metal. Thanks to everyone
for the wonderful support we have received. YOU ALL RULE!!!!!!!!!! Due to the interest in the CRUSADER, we have
decided that all future issues will be A4. This means more interviews, more reviews and more ass kicking Metal. Now that is
something to bang your head to. We will remain totally honest in that we will ONLY support bands that deserve it and
ONLY TRUE METAL, we will however review any material that is sent to us, we just won't promise a favourable review.
We welcome any support positive or negative that you may have. We do not give a fuck about any politics, fashions, religions
or causes.
METAL IS LIFE!!!!!!

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THANK YOU LIST

J.F.Rey (Deadsun Records), Mark (Groinchurn), Bill (Marbil ent.), Riaan (Ferro Metal), Charles, Stefan, SexWax +
Flyspunk 'zine, Gutted Remains, Radio 5, TOP 40 mag, TV 3, Henriette, The Crow, Black Label, all the people who wrote
back to us and all the Obsessed METALHEADS of the world.

THE CRUSADER IS A TOTALLY INDEPENDENT, INFORMAL EXPRESSION OF THE OPINIONS OF TWO
ABSOLUTELY NARROW MINDED METALHEADS. IF YOU DISAGREE WITH THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN
THESE PAGES, WE DON'T GIVE A FUCK............

(If we all had the same opinions the world would be fucking boring)

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GUTTED REMAINS

Gutted Remains has successfully been touring the local Metal circuit for the last couple of years. Gutted remains consists of
Peter Busse on Bass and Vocals, Kevin Bartle on Lead Guitar, Taylor Milan on Drums and "Bronze" Young on Rhythm Guitar.
This Sandton foursome are starting to make their mark on South Africa's Metal scene with their first professional recording
"Priest", which appears on the "13...A Compilation" CD. Gutted Remains are presently busy recording their debut album
(as yet untitled) at Mega Music studio's in downtown Johannesburg. With Leon Erasmus at the Helm as engineer, the album
promises to be one of the best, if not the best Metal release for '97.
NB : Gutted Remains will have sex for large quantities of Beer!!!

DARK AGES: According to the inlay of the "13" CD, you made your stage debut in a "small underground club in
Pretoria" on the 12th August 1995. Which club was this and why did a band from Jo'burg decide to debut in Pretoria?
GUTTED REMAINS: Band Factory (old Lollapalooza) (now Inferno). Friends of ours from the band "Ded Reckoning"
were playing with a Pretoria band called "Malicious Deformity", and we were invited to play. What a laugh!

DARK AGES: You have played in places such as Cape Town and Potch as well as the usual in Pretoria and
Jo'burg. Have you noticed a difference in the reactions and attitudes of the crowds at your gigs in different areas?
GUTTED REMAINS: Oh yes, but towns have got nothing to do with it. We can play two gigs in similar areas. One will
Rock and the other they sit there and clap like we're playing in a dinner lounge. Just depends on the crowd.

DARK AGES: Have you got any preferred places to play?
GUTTED REMAINS: Wings Beat Bar in Braamfontein, but we also have a wild time playing at Kebab Junction in
Randburg. Free Booze and an enthusiastic crowd always helps.

DARK AGES: Was there any conscious decision to pursue the doomy yet funky sound that you have, or was it
just by chance? I feel it is a highly original sound for a South African band.
GUTTED REMAINS: We wanted our own original doomy sound, and we worked hard at it, but our main intention was
not to sound like anybody else. Why do what's already been done?

DARK AGES: What would you say your influences are?
GUTTED REMAINS: I think the variety of influences from/on all the band members had something to do with the forming
of our original sound. Carcass, Obituary, Cannibal Corpse, Hypocrisy, Gorefest, Megadeth, Old Metallica, etc...

DARK AGES: You achieved an amazing sound on your first recording "Priest". Do you feel your producer (Leon
Erasmus) has been doing your live sound justice with his work on your first album?
GUTTED REMAINS: Without doubt. Leon has really gone out of his way to get the best possible equipment and sound to
make this album the hottest of '97. It's also good that he takes each release as a personal achievement and does his best for
himself as well as the band.

DARK AGES: Is this going to be an independent release or are you working with any companies?
GUTTED REMAINS: Independently, although we are going to be distributing through Bill at Marbil Records, who has really
been cool. (So Far!)

DARK AGES: Is there anything else you can tell me about your CD. (e.g. special packaging, limited edition
version, album title, song titles, number of tracks, duration of CD, any other merchandise getting released like T-shirts etc.)
GUTTED REMAINS: The album, due for release in September, will be coming out with a limited edition special packaging
release as well. As to what it is, you just gonna have to wait and see. The length of the album will be approximately 45
minutes, comprising of about 9 tracks. The release of our full colour, long sleeve, front, back and sleeve print shirts and other
merchandise will coincide with the album launch.

DARK AGES: I see that Gutted Remains are willing to have sex for large quantities of beer, this is a very noble
offer. I take it you are doing this for the good of mankind? Any comments? (Dark Ages would just like to add that
they are also perfectly willing to perform these acts of self sacrifice.)
GUTTED REMAINS: Well I think it's self explanatory, but Windhoek Beer will get you to the front of the queue...

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GUTTED "STUDIO" REMAINS

The date: MONDAY 12 MAY 1997
The sacred place: MEGA MUSIC STUDIOS JOHANNESBURG
The time 18:30 - 24:00

I arrived for my taste of what Gutted Remains are like in the recording studio at just after 19:30. Recording had already
begun. The smell of smoke, and plenty of it already filled the air. Tonight was the night that the lead guitarist, Kevin, would lay
down his rhythm track. The track being recorded was DIONYSUS (the only instrumental track on the album). I was taken
into the room with all the recording apparatus and was immediately given a seat and a beer. The essentials of life. The recording
of DIONYSUS went basically without any hitches. GRANNY was also rolled off with a few takes and a few warm ups.

By the time NECROLINGUS came up, the rest of us in the room, Pete (Bass/Vocals), Taylor (Drums) had begun to get
pretty rowdy. We had obviously been lulled into a party mood by the sweet sounds of live Death Metal as well as the freely
available Whisky and Beer. Leon (Producer) and his willing assistant, Bronze (Rhythm Guitar), had to keep quieting us down.
The serious part of the night had begun, NECROLINGUS (oral sex with the dead), GUTTED REMAINS' only LOVE
SONG. Now this is an incredible song, it puts AIR SUPPLY to shame.

The next track up was CHEOPS. Take, after take, after take, the slightest string buzz would cause the scrapping of the entire
piece. I know this song so well now its coming out of my ears. This is going to be an incredible CD when it's released, you
can only expect the best from a band like GUTTED REMAINS. After a swig or two of whisky to calm the nerves, Kevin
managed to get the riff down absolutely perfectly. After a short listen and congratulations on a job well done, we made our
way out of the studios. Outside we reminisced for a few minutes on the good/shit old days and parted ways to go home
and earn the money that keeps this Rock 'n' Roll debauchery on the go.

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METALMORPHOSIS

This is a "fairly" recent interview with METALMORPHOSIS. It was shamelessly 'stolen' from a Radio 5 Program. The reason
we decided to print it is that not all Metalheads in SA have the time to sit and listen to the crap played on Radio 5, including
all the chart music and the so called 'alternative' music, for a few minutes of Metal. Transcribed by an unknown person.
(M = Marq from Metalmorphosis + D = David from Radio 5)

M : Good evening South Africa!!!
D : (Laughs) All right. You guys have been around for a bit, making a lot of noise. Finally we got a lovely four track CD out
called "BLISTERED".
M : Well, thank you David.

D : So how long did it take to get all of this together in the end?
M : Uh, the CD itself or are you talking about...

D : (interrupts) ja, the CD itself.
M : Well, after much deliberation, arguing, screaming and shouting, should we go overseas, should we stay, should we go; we
started dabbling in the studio that we recorded at and, um, just to see how our new stuff would sound and, ja, as they say we
put the four songs together and, um, there we've got it. It didn't take too long, a couple of months, and there we are.

D : All right, that was Savage Custard Studios in Johannesburg, Silva Moon Records. That's, um, Joe da Silva from Count Ash.
M : That's right, it's old Joe da Silva from Count Ash.

D : (Laughs)All right. Now the "should I stay, or should I go" issue. Um, (sighs), Damn... I've forgotten their name. Whose
those dudes that are in London, who are doing so well at the moment?
M : Oh yes, V.O.D.

D : V.O.D, yeah. Now they've gone and they're doing all right. Why have you stayed?
M : Well, I think it's a little different from the scenario. They got signed to a label over there Morbid Records which financed
for them to fly out there and as you know with our wonderful Rand and Pound exchange, uh, ja right - no comment - and
obviously they got financed to go out there, record an album and they've been put on tour and doing very, very well. Obviously
everything's financed. It's gonna be a little different if we go over there. We're gonna be a sort of a big Gup... or a small
Guppie in a huge, huge ocean, which at least, here we can be a, uh, a big Shark in a not so big ocean.

D : Right. Now you've just had your launch very recently at Wings and I was there at the morning after. Unfortunately I didn't
quite make it to the launch. Um...
M : (interrupts) I'm not quite sure if I was there, to be honest!

D : (laughs) This is what I was worried about. Um. I was more concerned about the fact that I had to don scuba gear to get
through the door of Wings to swim through the condoms on the floor.
M : That's right. We did have a bit of a rubberised evening. It was just something that we, uh, really believe in, you know,
practising safe sex.

D : (interrupts) Lots of it, as it says on the back of the CD.
M : And lots of it, absolutely. See we've just landed a nice sponsor by... I don't know if we can mention their name on the
radio.

D : Oh, go for it!
M : Looks like we landed a sponsor with Durex. Um, just for the fans out there; DON'T USE THE CONDOMS THAT ARE
SPONSORED BY THE MINISTER OF HEALTH. THEY DON'T WORK!!

D : That's why there's so many of us.
M : Absolutely! (laughs all round)
M : Ja, absolutely, absolutely!

D : All right, let's get a little bit serious. Metalmorphosis : Where, where do you come from? Influences? I mean, do you just
listen to Death Metal, do you listen to Metal, do you listen to blues, rock, pop, dare I say it - techno?
M : Well David, I think what makes us different, um, than many other of the Metal bands in this country, and I think that's
what helped us to sell so well overseas is that we refuse to be pigeonholed. I mean, if anybody asked us are we a thrash band,
death band, whatever the case may be. As far as we are concerned we play Heavy Metal, anyway it works for us. Um, for
example, our influences stem anything from the hardcore stuff from Machine Head to Slayer to even harder stuff than that for
example Deicide, but we can also sit back and listen to bands like Great White. And, uh, at the end of the day we listen to
everything and write and play stuff that works for us. We categorise ourselves as a Heavy Metal band, not as a death band.

D : Right, I mean you guys hold the unique distinction of having sold more records abroad than just about any other South
African band, in particular Mango Groove.
M : Yummie. Well Clair, come to me baby.

D : Eat your Mango. (laughs all round). All right now, um... I think at times maybe your tongue is more famous than you are.
M : Who told you?

D : (laughs) Well, it's all I ever see of you.
M : Well you know as they say : If you've got it, flaunt it and sometimes...it...hey look to be honest, my tongue has a mind of
it's own, it can't stay...

D : (interrupts) Just as well it isn't T.V.
M : No-no, I did leave it at home this night, uhhhm, tonight should I say. Barney insisted I leave it in it's little box and so on.
So yes, it only comes out in the weekend. (laughs all round).

D : Ah right! The world's only detachable tongue.
M : Absolutely!

D : All right. Marq, thank you very much for coming into the studio.
M : Thank you very much.

D : I'm glad you left the fixtures on the walls, and we're gonna play a track, number 1 off your Blistered...is it an LP or an EP?
M : Uh, a four-track EP. Can I tell the people where they can get this?

D : Ja, go for it, tell us where we can get this thing, cuzz...
M : (interrupts) Just a quick run-through. Um, thank you to Phase 2 in Cresta Centre. They've got it stocked there. Look &
Listen in Hyde Park, Sandton Square as well as the East Rand Valley Mall and the Westville Pavillion in Durban. For all our
fans in Durbs, there we go guys! CD-Collection in Alberton City and Muzique in Westgate. One more thing if I may?

D : Yeah.
M : What we've launched, it's something different as well. It's a 24-Hour Sleaze Patrol Hotline, which is our fan-club. uhm.
Which they can phone in and have live phone sex or verbal abuse or place orders for merchandise or get their parents to
phone in. A 24-Hour hotline on 082 313 8830. And no swearing folks!

D : Does this mean that people who don't, like, have a record shop in the area that's stocking the stuff can phone and order it?
M : Absolutely! What we do is then we just take down your orders and we'll come and deliver it. If that's what it takes. We'll
take it to the people. That's what it's all about.

D : Excellent! Thanks for coming in, Marq.
M : Thank you very much.
D : Keep well.
M : Thank you.
D : We'll speak to you later.

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METALMORPHOSIS
BLISTERED
SILVA MOON RECORDS

4 SONGS - BONEYARD, PASSION MOTHER, FLESH, FISHES OF MEN. I haven't written a review for 3 years, and
those sucked too. This is a rather fat sounding CD. Definitely a huge step up from the "Craphouse Records" cassette :
"Embrace your Creation". There's a big Carcass lean-to in "Passion Mother". But only musically - The vocals are not at all
Carcass-ish. I'm not sure how to describe the vocals--Gruff, but a touch melodic I suppose. Anyway, any Metal
fan should enjoy this as it's a very well produced, tight offering from the band. One bitch...Too short: 13 mins for R45.00-
Not cool at all-If you're putting out a "single", sell it as a single.

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CD REVIEWS

BATHORY
BLOOD ON ICE
BLACK MARK
(10 BATTLE AXES)

HAAAAAAAAAAAIIIIL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yes the almighty Bathory did it again with this fuck'n amazing 11 track CD. This
album falls in line with BLOOD FIRE DEATH; HAMMERHEART and TWILIGHT OF THE GODS. This is one of my
favourite albums and it's all you want from the cry of the north. It starts off with a typical Bathory sampler to get you ready to
get off your ass and to grab your battle axe and to start fighting for Metal in honour of the One Eyed God. This is a CD you
can find the pride and honour to be a Metalhead. The inlay consists of a story before each song and all lyrics. The inlay is done
in English and German. This CD takes you to the land of Fire and Ice in it's marching sound of the drums, guitar and bass,
choirs and Quorthon's amazing voice. This is a must for all Bathory fans, may we all welcome the stomping hooves of the
Valkyrie horses when our time comes to go to the great hall up high!
(J.M)

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POSTMORTEM
THE AGE OF MASSMURDER
MORBID RECORDS
(9 BATTLE AXES)

"Hi, and welcome in our world of violence and serial crime!" Buy this Now, it rules. 12 tributes to the serial killers of our times.
Music to make you feel like singing love songs to the severed head in your hands. Brilliant mid-paced Death Metal, with
enjoyable (anti) socially conscious lyrics. Guaranteed to get your head-banging, you'll even want to sing along to it, a
phenomenon rarely found in modern Death Metal (unfortunately a lot of the lyrics are in German, but you can always try). The
Mini CD "Der Totmacher" is still available, CD available from Morbid Records. Band contact : Postfach 4, 12657 Berlin,
Germany.
(LUNATIC)

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DEMENTIA
IN THE CORE OF THE DARK AGES
THUNDER PRODUCTIONS
(9 BATTLE AXES)

HAAAIIILL to Dementia!!!!!!! Atmospheric brutality at it's best. With excellent vocals (very good changes between lead and
back-up vocals). Guitar riffs and solo's that would grab you till the very end. Brilliant bass playing and well used keyboard
fills to create that atmosphere to each song. If you are still sitting after all of this then the drums with it's double bass, brilliant
roll's and blast beats (not that I would know anything about drums) would kick you straight into the ripping mosh!! This
well recorded and packaged CD consists of six songs. I must admit I was sceptical about the keyboards (especially after
hearing REGENCY), but I soon found out that DEMENTIA knew when to use it even if I prefer it with out it. The only thing
left to say is "I love that CD title!!!!!!!!!!!!" Band contact: Crepot dean-Herve, 24 rue Mondette, 51160 Champillon, France.
(J.M)

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WINDWALKER
ADVANCE TAPE
VOD RECORDS
(8,5 BATTLE AXES)

I've heard people say that if you don't like a CD the first time you hear it, but you start to like it later on then it is a truly good
album, not a commercial one. If that is the case then this album will be a true classic. The first time I heard it, all I heard was
"MODERN ROCK" (PUKE AND MORE PUKE). After a second listen I realised that this tape is of a quality that no Kurt
Cobain clone could produce. The best way to describe this would be, a type of doom that wouldn't have sounded out of place
in the early eighties, except for the short bursts of Swedish style Black Metal which provide an incredible contrast and add to
the sombre, depressing and evil feel of this amazingly atmospheric music. This is the way that True "traditional" Metal, will
evolve. This band are going to be an incredible success as soon as the mainstream of Metal latches on to them. Band
Contact : VOD Records, Kolavagen 2, 441 55 Alingsas, Sweden.
(LUNATIC)

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POSSESSION
SCOURGE AND FIRE (MCD)
INDEPENDENT
(8,5 BATTLE AXES)

The first thing that hits you about this CD is the packaging. An incredible cover printed in a simple yet fucking effective silver
and black. The music is also beyond belief. It's about as brutal as you can get. It's hard to describe but I would say it's
Black Metal with plenty of "eighties" speed/thrash influences. 3 tracks. One new track, one re-recorded old track and one
cover version. The cover version is simply entitled "bonus track". It is left up to you to figure that one out, I don't actually enjoy
the band they covered but this version is killer. It's a pity the CD is so short, but that's why it's a mini CD. Watch out for a full
length release soon. The CD is only available through the band : P.O.Box 3031, Olathe, KS 66062, USA, or,
www.eternallyhaunt.com
(LUNATIC)

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ENTOMBED
TO RIDE, SHOOT STRAIGHT AND SPEAK THE TRUTH
MUSIC FOR NATIONS
(8,5 BATTLE AXES)

Entombed kicks ass once again with fucking cool riffs, great bass and of course excellent drumming. One thing is for sure
though, Entombed has definitely adapted to the true sound of the ninety's. Unfortunately L.G Petrov's vocals tend to sound a
lot like Rob Zombie's, but apart from that it rules and this offering is a must for any Entombed fan. It also comes in a limited
edition double digipack which includes a bonus EP "Family Favourites". Band contact: The Tomb, P.O.Box 312, 10126
Stockholm, Sweden.
(CHARLES)

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MORNALAND / ABOMINATOR
PRELUDE TO A WORLD FUNERAL...
INDEPENDENT
(8 BATTLE AXES)

The finest split CD I have come upon this year. Mornaland (Sweden) play Brutal Black Metal in the true sense of the word,
Abominator (Australia) pound away at breakneck speed with pure Blackness from the bowels of Hades. No Atmospherics
here. Nice packaging, very well printed with photo's. Lyrics are not included but can be obtained from the bands. My favourite
tracks include Mornaland's "Invert" (which conjures up visions of the immortal SODOM) and "Fallen Angel" as well as
Abominator's "Black Nuclear Winds". Sound quality is above average. To the Gods that made Heavy Metal and the ones that
keep it alive. Band contact : Mornaland, C/O Wenngren Stentorpsgatan 1c, 723 43 Vasteras, Sweden ;
Abominator, C/O Chris, P.O.BOX 61, Gardenvale, VIC. 3185, Australia.
(LUNATIC)

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MORTUARY OATH
ONCE UPON A DREARY...
MAJESTIC UNION
(7,5 BATTLE AXES)

Blakk, from Angelkill is back, not as pissed off as usual, but still not feeling very cheerful. Ten dirges with a running time of
around an hour, enough to depress the shit out of anybody. Then why the hell do I like it so much? Possibly Blakk's vocals that
never fall into the Gothic moans that are so popular these days, sounding more like Beelzebub with a nasty sore throat.
Discernible lyrics with technical/skilled guitar playing and nice solo's that are most definitely not too long. CD comes in a nice
package: 8 page booklet, incl. lyrics, photo and a grim green graveyard cover. Recommended. Band contact : P.O.Box
371, Le Claire, IA 52753, U.S.A.
(LUNATIC)

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SALEM JUSTICE
ENVIRUSFEAR
THUNDER RECORDS
(7 BATTLE AXES)

What aggression does these dudes have, if it wasn't for the recording quality and song no.6, this band would have got some
more battle axes for their fight for Metal. If you liked Sepultura before they decided to become total "AlternicA" clones, then
this 12 track CD is a must for you. I enjoyed every bit of guitar playing, bass and drum playing, as well as that deep vocals.
Band contact: Salem Justice, 23 Carrington road, Spalding. Lincs Peuilty, England.
(J.M)

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OBSECRATION
THE INHERITORS OF PAIN
HAMMERHEART RECORDS
(7 BATTLE AXES)

Technical Death Metal taken to it's peak. Slowish and moderately brutal with original sounding acoustic parts. Perhaps a few
too many instrumentals for my liking, but the music is superb. The packaging is amazing, looking far superior to most
underground releases. My main problem however with this CD are absolutely indecipherable sleeve notes and lyrics. I haven't
yet been able to figure out the bands address or work out their lyrics, and this is very important to me. The overall package is
well worth checking out, especially for the music. Fans of "Individual Thought Patterns" era DEATH, take note. Band Contact:
Hammerheart Records, P.O.Box 227, 6300 AG Valkenburg, Holland
(LUNATIC)

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MERCYLESS
C.O.L.D
THUNDER PRODUCTIONS
(7 BATTLE AXES)

Reviewing this album was almost like trying to Review a million albums at the same time. I can Honestly say that I haven't
heard such a musically and stylistically diverse album in a long, long time. Mixing Pantera, Type O Negative, Sentenced (track
6) and Cynic it seems that Mercyless indeed live up to their name with this musical roller coaster ride designed to confuse you
and leave you breathless. All in all not a bad album (not by far, it oozes with talent). Hardcore fans of any specific Metal
genre (Death, Doom, etc) might feel short-changed. This album, in a nutshell is actually like a nun. Nothing on the outside really
hints at it's content, but persistence to discover what's inside might just leave you pleasantly surprised..................
Band contact: The Coldness, BP 02, 68390 Balderheim, France. Internet site: http://www.hrnet.fr/mercyless.
(STEFAN)

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OBITUARY
BACK FROM THE DEAD
ROADRUNNER
(8.5 BATTLE AXES)

Obituary is back from the dead!!!!! We are so glad that Obituary stuck to their sound and not like these other fuck-up's
(Metallica, Entombed, Sepultura). This is a Death Metal masterpiece and a must for the young, old and even the dead. Music
that will keep you entertained in all it's great riff changes and intense vocals. A bonus to this CD, is the CD ROM extra you are
getting and we think it rules!!! It contains music video's, pictures and more, which we will leave up to you to discover. Do not
hesitate, this is the sound of the dead that will haunt your CD player for 40 mins.
(DARK AGES)

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THORNS AND FLOWERS
UNCHAIN
THUNDER PRODUCTIONS
(7 BATTLE AXES)

Hail to Thorns and Flowers. This band rule!! The CD consists of 8 songs of mind intriguing music. If you are a person that
enjoyed the old Paradise Lost with a little bit more Metal, then this band will do it for you. "Slow" but still effective in my mind.
I really enjoyed this CD for the way they used the guitars (I loved the solo's on the CD), bass and drums and emotional singing
in their quest for Metal. This isn't the music I would actually listen to if I would like to get fuck'n crazy, but more to relax to and
enjoy with a nice cold Beer. Each note played on this well packaged and produced CD will take you off to where you want to
be. "Sorry mother, I've tried to stay pure!!" Band contact: Remi et Nathalie Leclere, 681 rue Waldec Rousseac, 08500
Revin, France.
(J.M)

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DISGRACE
SUPERHUMAN DOME
MORBID RECORDS
(6 BATTLE AXES)

I must be honest with you, this is not really my type of music. It is however very good. 11 tracks of raging Hardcore Metal
clocking in at 75 minutes, make this release very good value for money. Repeated listening will get any extreme Metal fan
tapping their feet, and itching for a "Soul-Cleansing" MOSH!! It's been years since I've heard a Hardcore album as good as
this, but then again I very seldom get to hear the latest in Hardcore (I have to plead blissful ignorance). Unfortunately the evils
of industrial/techno sneak in on one track, but that's what the skip option on CD players was invented for. CD available from:
Morbid Records, Postfach 3, 03114, Drebkau, Germany.
(LUNATIC)

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MANGLED TORSOS
GODLESS
MORBID RECORDS
(5 BATTLE AXES)

Dark Death Metal, very good discernible Death/Doom vocals. 12 songs 47 minutes. Pretty boring cover for a Morbid release,
but although the cover is an important part of the overall package, the music should be able to hold up on its own. Mangled
Torsos music can do this. This album would appeal to fans of slower, yet vicious, Death Metal. This is music that is highly
likely to build up quite a cult following, culminating in commercial success. Unfortunately this band has begun, as with a lot
of modern bands, to use Techno/Dance parts. Tracks 10 and 11 should be avoided like the plague. Although they represent
a more brutal side to the band, the unnecessary use of effects and dance beats, can only detract from the music. You can't
play Metal on a synthesiser!!! CD available from : Morbid Records, Postfach 3, 03114 Drebkau, Germany.
(LUNATIC)

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REGENCY
EP
THUNDER RECORDS
(0 BATTLE AXES)

O MY GOD WHAT THE HELL IS THIS!!!!!!!! This Beverly Hills 90666 intro really sucks!!!!!! To be honest after three
times of trying to review this CD, I finally got the courage to review this pile of non-Metal shit. I still think that this CD should
be avoided like the plague. As musicians these mortals are okay at what the do, but still this is NOT METAL!!!!! This is truly
wimpy music. Watch out Bon Jo Wuss here comes REGENCY. The only good thing that came out of this CD was the fact
that I got a nice cold Beer for it, mmmmm BEER!!!!!!!!
(J.M)

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WICKED SCRIPTURES

ANGELKILL

Since ANGELKILL's '93 release 'Garden of Crosses' which sold more than 3000 copies and the '95 release of their two
former albums 'Artist of the Flesh' and 'Beyond the Black' on CD, they have recorded two new full length cassettes entitled
'Casket Lullabies' and 'Bloodstained Memories' (which was reviewed in this 'zine) as well as a 7" entitled 'Lady Cadaver'.
This undoubtedly proves they are one of Metal's hardest working bands, dedicated to trying to promote their music, and rightly
so as their music definitely stands above the competition in the extreme metal genre.

MORTUARY OATH

Also worth checking out is the solo project of Blakk, Angelkill's Vocalist, called MORTUARY OATH. They have recently
released their debut CD entitled 'Once Upon a Dreary' (also reviewed in this 'zine). Their music is a bit different from Angelkill
but after all, all that matters is that it's Metal the way it was meant to be, heavy and blood-curdling as hell!

POSSESSION

Possession have recently released their third CD, recorded in August '96. It is called 'Scourge and Fire' and it contains three
tracks. The first track 'Scourge and Fire' is a new track, the second is 'Danse Macabre' which is a re-recorded version of a
track that appeared on their '93 demo tape 'Mad Crazed and Violent' and the third is a cover version. Possession's other two
CD releases are 'The Unnameable Suffering' and 'Eternally Haunt', receiving rave reviews in underground as well as more
mainstream Metal publications. A new release is scheduled for later on this year but delays can be expected as the band place
a very high emphasis on creativity and quality. Possession still do not have a permanent bassist and are not planning any tours
at the moment as their personal jet is in for repairs (??????). They are currently looking for a bassist, degree in aviation
mechanics would be to your advantage, so any aspiring bassists out there get in touch. Possession CD's are only officially
available through the band so get in touch soon, you won't regret it.

DO YOU BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF EVIL?
YOU SHOULD...

==================================================
GROINCHURN

"Basically what we started off as was to do something really heavy, really aggressive, and um, well basically just to be the
fastest heaviest band we could. I think we've progressed a bit past that but it still boils down to just be really, really heavy and
aggressive no matter what we write, really, really hard."

GROINCHURN a name synonymous in South Africa with extremes. "They're very good at what they do, but they're just too
noisy," this is what a certain female told me recently while discussing the merits of various South African bands. Let's face it
Groinchurn are not meant for mass consumption, but if you like your music very heavy then you will enjoy them. They possess
an amazing stage presence that automatically puts you in the mood to mosh till you bleed. The following are a couple of
questions I asked Mark through the mail shortly after the release of the "SIXTIMESNINE" CD.

DARK AGES: When did you start?
GROINCHURN: We started in early 1994, with the recording of our HUMAN FILTH demo, and officially became a band
in June 1994, when our other bands, SEPSIS and DESECRATOR, split up.

DARK AGES: Influences?
GROINCHURN: As individual members we have extremely varied influences, completely across the board so as a band, it's
difficult to say. It would be mostly totally extreme grind like AGATHOCLES, ASSUCK, BRUTAL TRUTH, NUCLEAR
DEATH, BLOOD and such.

DARK AGES: Where did the CD title come from?
GROINCHURN: A long phone conversation. We couldn't come up with a title that we all agreed on, and that was the only
one that we didn't have a problem with. It's from the same book that Christo was reading when he wrote "The Answer is 42",
some Joseph Heller book I think.

DARK AGES: What's with track 4?
GROINCHURN: It's just this experimental thing I pulled off on my computer, just some interesting noises and stuff, no big
deal. We wanted to put something different on the CD so that's it.

DARK AGES: What can we expect next from GROINCHURN?
GROINCHURN: There will be another GROINCHURN CD out soon : THUCK : 1994 TO 1996. It's a collection of all
our stuff, demo's, EP's and all, leading up to the CD. It will be released as a low price CD, along with some old photo's and
other info on the band. All in all, around 70 minutes of music. There is also a possibility that there will be a limited edition box
set, with the CD, T-shirt and some other crap.

THE OFFICIAL GROINCHURN DISCOGRAPHY

TAPES:
HUMAN FILTH demo '94
EVERY DOG HAS IT'S DECAY demo '94
GROINCHURN/MINDFART (Belgium) live split tape
GROINCHURN/NECROSE (Brazil) live split tape

VINYL:
GROINCHURN/CAPTAIN 3 LEG (USA) split 7"
GROINCHURN/WOYCZECH (Germany) split 7"
TOTALLY FUCKING LIVE 7"
(soon...COUGHIN' 7")

CD'S:
Tracks on FOUR WAYS TO MISERY '95
SIXTIMESNINE '97

COMPILATIONS:
13...A COMPILATION CD (South Africa)
CHARDS OF CIVILIZATION 7" (Belgium)
NOISE AGAINST THE MACHINE 7" (Germany)
GRIND MANIA tape (Croatia)
NATAS VOL. III tape (USA)
MORTALITY RATE tape (Bulgaria)
WE WON'T SHUT UP tape (Austria)
FALLEN ARCHES tape (Germany)
DELIRIUM TREMENS VOL.29 tape (Sweden)
AXIOMA COMP. VOL.2 tape (Holland)
XENOPHILE NAZIS tape (Switzerland)
WHO CARES ABOUT THE SCENE? tape (Slovenia)
DON'T BLEED ON THE CARPET tape (South Africa)
SUFFER VOL.4 tape (Germany)
NECROMANCE VOL. III tape (Spain)
IMMORTAL SOULS VOL. III tape (Slovakia)
FUTURE CHAOS FOR FUTURE CRIMES tape (South Africa)
DEATH CORPORATION tape (France)
YOU DON'T HAVE TO FUCK PEOPLE OVER tape (England)
PLUTO COMPILATION VOL. III tape (Japan)
USE YOUR VOICE VOL.2 tape (Germany)
FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHTS tape (The Philippines)

==================================================
DEMO REVIEWS

SCEPTER
UP THY ASS
INDEPENDENT
(10 BATTLE AXES)

METAL IS THE LAW!!! The sound of true Metal thundering on like the hammer of Thor. This is Metal. With bands such as
this Metal will definitely rule the universe. Classic Metal with a a bit of Death Metal aggression thrown in for good measure,
this has to be the best demo I have ever heard. Unashamedly Metal, Scepter are one of the few bands since the eighties to
actively fight with the power of Metal. Catchy riffs and anthemic lyrics make this demo indispensable for any Soldier of Metal.
Unfortunately a bit short with only four songs, but the message shines through, Metal is the only way for Scepter. FUCKING
METAL...PROUD AS HELL. Band contact : P.O.Box 388068, Chicago, IL 60638-8068, U.S.A.
(LUNATIC)

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CHAOS SYMPHONY
CHAOS SYMPHONY
INDEPENDENT
(10 BATTLE AXES)

A MIGHTY, AND I MEAN FUCK MIGHTY HAAAAAAIIIIIIL!!!! I was so impressed with this demo that I started to
mosh the brick walls of my room. You have to hear this demo to believe it. It fucking rules!!!! With riff's that remind you of
good ol' Slayer thrash, howling vocals that get you so aggressive that you just wish you could die and go straight to the great
hall up high. This demo consists of 6 songs without annoying keyboards, no atmosphere's on this demo just pure brutal Metal!
It's a pity that the tape was too short on side A to fit in the whole song, but it continues on side B (very funny). This is a
demo that every Metal mosher should have, so order it now!! So what are you waiting for? O yeh, Band contact: Chaos
Symphony, c/o Garth Lovvorn, 3190 Six Avenue, Huntsville, AL 35805, U.S.A.
(J.M)

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INSURRECTION
THE DEMO'S
INDEPENDENT
(9 BATTLE AXES)

No way, this is so intense. Wait a second, I've got to take a breath......HAAAIIIL INSURRECTION!!!!!!!! My ears are
hearing the sweetest brutality ever imagined. This demo consists of 5 tracks which include the song "Umnikelo" that is also
featured on the "13......A COMPILATION" CD. The demo starts off with a classic intro and breaks into total mayhem that
would even have the dark ones shaking in terror to the sound of Metal. Fuck the drumming, bass and guitars are so tight and
fast and vocals that raise from the deepest pits of the underworld. This demo is for any Metalhead that believes in the power
of Metal. This is what the world needs to hear, I bet that they would shit in their pants when society hears what the Metal gods
have given to these dudes. Believe me you won't get bored with this demo. Something to listen to with your friends. (I mean
it sucks moshing the wall!!!!!!!). Band contact: c/o Deathwing Holdings, P.O.Box 1852, Roodepoort, 1725, South Africa.
(J.M)

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ANGELKILL
BLOOD STAINED MEMORIES
INDEPENDENT
(8 BATTLE AXES)

AAAAAGGGGGHHH!!!! Serious throat cancer inducing vocals if I've ever heard any. Angelkill consists of five very pissed
off characters that have joined together to record some of the most brutal death this side of Deicide. 9 songs clocking at
around 45 minutes make this a very worthy purchase. The best way to describe this release is as Total Fucking Death. My
promo copy however does not do the original justice, definitely worth the effort to track down this release. Band contact:
P.O.BOX 371, LE CLAIRE, IA 52753, U.S.A
(LUNATIC)

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FESTERING PUKE
ONCE UPON YOUR MOM
PIGEONECK UNDERGROUND
(8 BATTLE AXES)

Festering Puke are back with another rehearsal tape, another 30 minutes and 62 anthems of sickness. It is of course as hilarious
as ever. This tape is made more entertaining because of the use of more samples from movies etc. I personally love the cover
of "When a Man loves a Woman", "your symbol sucks!!!" (a song for 'Prince') and the ever popular "Stomp the fags pt.3". The
cover parody of Deicide's "Once upon the cross" is also brilliant. Festering Puke would like to say, "Our tapes are meant for
those that don't care about the correct way. Our tapes are meant for people that just care about a good laugh. If you don't get
that, then go fuck yourself". Shitty quality photocopied cover, and a terrible recording don't detract much from the hilarious
genius of this band. Not for everybody. Everybody sucks!!!! Band Contact : P.O.Box 9450, Denver, CO 80209, U.S.A.
(LUNATIC)

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OVERLORD
OVERLAND
INDEPENDENT
(8 BATTLE AXES)

An impressive demo from Poland's Overlord. Impressive guitar playing and growling vocals make this demo a worthy addition
to any collection. A running time of over 40 minutes also make this more worth while. Eight original tracks of which two are
instrumentals as well as a bonus track, a cover of Sodom's classic "Outbreak of Evil". Interesting and different subject matter is
used for the lyrics of the songs, or at least the ideas are viewed from a different point of view to the norm. The music is
average Death Metal but it is very well executed. The quality of the recordings is raw, but in my opinion that's how demo's
should be. Overlord are planning to record professionally in early '98. Worth checking out. Band contact : Piotr Forystek,
Kosciuszki 4, 38-200 Jaslo, Poland.
(LUNATIC)

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SOLSTICE
HALCYON
BLACK TEARS RECORDS
(9 BATTLE AXES)

TRUE METAL! Invoking images of old 'NWOBHM' but in a 'new' way and twice as heavy. Not music for Death
Heads but still amazing. Crystal clear vocals over pounding Metal. This material comes off their first 10" EP which comes with
an embossed cover representing a chaos rune. The EP is limited to 500 copies, running time is around 20 minutes and it
contains 4 tracks. The first track is an intro and the last one is an instrumental that even your grandmother would appreciate. I
just get this overpowering need to raise my sword high and call out 'Odin's Hail'. Hurry and get your copy. Available
from : Black Tears Records, 6 Elderfield Road, Stoke Poges, Slough, Berkshire SL2 4DE, England.
(LUNATIC)

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FLESHGRIND
HOLY PEDOPHILE
INDEPENDENT
(8 BATTLE AXES)

Inhumane and unrelenting incredible Death Metal. Nothing but absolute grinding intensity that will leave you cold, rotting and
dying for your next Mosh. 5 tracks with intro's on two tracks that add to the music not detract from it. Digitally recorded
on 24 tracks with pro-copied tapes and shrink-wrapped in just enough plastic to choke the nearest raver to death on. All to
add to your enjoyment and satisfaction. Buy this now or suffer for eternity. Available for $5.00 from the band. Band contact:
P.O.Box 7142, Grayslake, IL 60030-7142, U.S.A
(LUNATIC)

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SUICIDAL WINDS
AGGRESSION DEMO 1997
INDEPENDENT
(8 BATTLE AXES)

5 tracks. 4 originals and 1 cover version Photocopied cover. Pretty basic demo stuff. Metal in the vein of very old Sepultura
(this would explain the choice of Antichrist by the aforementioned as a cover version). Thoughts of classic "Destruction" and
"Hellhammer" also spring to mind. Sound quality is raw but surprisingly good for a four track recording. The band itself are
very tight and execute their version of '80's Death / Thrash brilliantly. I would strongly recommend this demo or any subsequent
releases to anyone who feels any nostalgia for the '80's or any new fan who wants to hear true aggression. Band contact:
Talmansvagen 34, 45175 Uddevalla, Sweden.
(LUNATIC)

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MALIZM
SPLIT
INDEPENDENT
(8 BATTLE AXES)

HAIL to Malizm with this 4 track demo. Songs that are featured on this demo are as follows: NOT THE SAME, FINAL
DARKNESS, THE WURM and SPLIT. These guys rule!!!!! Excellent bass playing and I mean ripping stuff. The drums
banged my brains insane and I wished the guitars would never end. The vocals, there is only one thing to say, excellent. I didn't
have any problems with this Metal demo. A must for any real Metalhead. Band contact: c/o Deathwing Holdings, P.O.Box
1852, Roodepoort, 1752, South Africa.
(J.M)

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RETALLIATION
DEATH FROM THE INSIDE
INDEPENDENT
(7 BATTLE AXES)

This demo was recorded entirely in the confines of NCCI Gardner State Prison, by 4 convicted felons. DON'T expect songs
about anything remotely pleasant. Totally psycho lyrics written by people who live these horrors. The sound quality leaves a lot
to be desired but you can't expect more from the limited resources and opportunities that are presented to an incarcerated
group of musicians, I can only guess what would come of fully professional recording as these guys can fucking play!!!! 6
songs of average demo length with a seventh track to round things off. The seventh track is the band talking shit in a entertaining
way. Impressive effort. Band contact: c/o Rick Desrosier, P.O.Box 661, W.Side Station, Worcester, MA 01602-0661,
U.S.A.
(LUNATIC)

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REGURGITATION
CONCEIVED THROUGH VOMIT
INDEPENDENT
(7 BATTLE AXES)

5 Tracks of absolutely crushing Death Metal. Enough to make to make Chris Barnes weep with joy. This recording actually
starts with a blast beat, not one second is wasted on anything else but absolute brutality. A lyric sheet is included on request so
you can find out what you are really listening to. The vocals are slurred to the point where even the lyric sheet won't help shit.
But what the fuck, this isn't music you want to have a romantic candlelight dinner to. I must admit that their forthcoming full
length CD on Ablated records entitled "Tales of Necrophilia", does indicate possible romantic leanings. Well I think so at least.
Feast on the dead. Band contact : c/o Ben Deskins, P.O.Box 366, Washington C.H., OH 43160, U.S.A.
(LUNATIC)

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EVERLASTING GRACE
THE MOTIVE OF ONE
UTOPIA ENTERTAINMENT
(7 BATTLE AXES)

Hardcore styled Metal. Very groovy, the type of music that can get your feet tapping. This is obviously a amateur recorded
demo done with a zero budget. What strikes me is how the hell they got it to sound that cool. All instruments can be clearly
heard and there is almost no distortion. This demo rocks. Obvious hardcore styled lyrics in your general anti-social direction
with the us against them mentality. I would love to see this band live, it must be quite an experience. There must be a market
for this type of music out there?? At least the band are proud to admit they are METAL. Band contact : 7 Histon Crescent,
Brampton, Ontario, Canada, L6V 3P9. Requests for free tapes are welcome.
(LUNATIC)

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DROGHEDA
A CELEBRATION OF VIOLENCE
EXTREMIST RECORDS
(6,5 BATTLE AXES)

This is fucking heavy. I at first thought a drum machine was used on this album, which has been absolutely denied by the band
after further contact with them. I still think the drumming sounds a little 'plastic'. Perhaps it is a little too perfect. There's no
denying that it is incredibly good, however. Eight entirely new tracks and the two tracks from their out of print Unabomber 7".
I think the title does an accurate job of describing this release. A 30 Minute celebration of violent grind. Die in Pain!!! Band
contact : 2221 13th ST., Akron, OH 44314, U.S.A. Tape available through Dark Ages for R25.00.
(LUNATIC)

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MIDGET FETISH
(SH)IT'S AN AQUIRED TASTE
OBNOXIOUS CADAVER RECORDS
(6 BATTLE AXES)

'Paint by numbers' grind. You have your obligatory anti Black Metal track, 'Satan is my Saviour (Bloodied Alter Mix)'. Cool
title I must admit. You also have your anti Glam Metal track, 'Cock Rock'. Seven songs, 15 minutes including a cover of a
'Festering Puke' song (Suffocate on This). Sound quality is very bad, due to the 4-track recording. Cover has newspaper
clippings pertaining to midgets in general as well as full lyrics and a thank you list. Ultimately nothing special, but still an
enjoyable tape. Not Australia's best offering. Grind collectors write to : Midget Fetish-S.I.N.-FAN CLUB, P.O.Box 3023,
STH. Brisbane, BC 4101, Australia.
(LUNATIC)

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ROADKILL
ROADKILL
INDEPENDENT
(5 BATTLE AXES)

This six track demo consists of LOSER, THE POSITIVE SONG, AFFIRMATIVE ACTION, P.S. (I WON'T BE BACK),
PATRICIA and BIRTH IS SUICIDE. This band go straight for the "nineties sound" and I know that is what they want. They
have a different sound. In some songs I miss the balls of Metal, because I am not a "nineties sound" fan. I wasn't to happy with
the guitar solo's either, because of the lack in punch. A demo for people that enjoy SexWax and all new sounds. The only
other problem I had with the demo was the recording quality, but hey, it's still worth going for if this is for you. The only thing
I want to know is who is Patricia, fuck she must be BAD. I would like to quote a verse out of Patricia when I end this review.
"I'll rather become a raver, than stay with you for the rest of my life!!" She must really suck, heh heh!!!!! Band contact: Roadkill,
18 Helwan Street, Voortrekkerhoogte, 0187, South Africa.
(J.M)

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THINE
JOURNEYS
BLACK TEARS RECORDS
(5 BATTLE AXES)

Two long songs, approximately 20 minutes in length. Acoustic parts, howling winds and female vocals. This would be very
good if it wasn't for the strong gothic influence on the vocals. The music pounds and succeeds in taking you to other 'realms
of existence', but still I don't like gothic music. Maybe a touch of aggression here and there would Make things a little better.
If you are a fan of atmospheric Metal then I would recommend this release but its not for fans of the heavy side. Available for
$7.00 from Black Tears Records, 6 Elderfield Road, Stoke Poges, Slough, Berkshire, SL2 4DE, ENGLAND
(LUNATIC)

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INFECTED PUSSY
TOUCH ME
PANX RECORDINGS
(1 BATTLE AXE)

15 Minutes of absolute boredom, the single Battle Axe rating is for the cool flyers and cover. Otherwise this release is an
absolute waste of money. Grind can be very cool as long as some grinding is actually done. Out of the 52 tracks on this 7"
perhaps 5 have actually got any music on them. Samples in French, radio broadcasts and disco LP's played at the wrong
speed make up the rest of the recording. Not worth the effort. Band contact : Y Bruitos de la Vocce, 18 rue de la
presse, 78500 Sartrouville, France.
(LUNATIC)

==================================================
PRAYER

Prayer is a band with a strong message that not many people may agree with, but who cares what other people think, all we
have to care about is Metal!!! Here follows a interview I did through the post with them.

CRUSADER: When was Prayer formed and who's the line up at the moment in the band?
PRAYER: We formed in October 1994. (That's also when we really started playing our instruments). Our line up now is, Tim
Ferguson (drums), Jan & Marais Scholtz (guitars), Matt Hoyle (Vocals), De Wet Scholtz (bass). Prayer has only been going
functional and gigging properly and serious since May 1996. Due to line up changes, etc.

CRUSADER: Who are Prayer's influences?
PRAYER: We like a lot of different styles of music ranging from the Death Metal scene to new school hardcore and
anything else we like to throw in. We strive (obviously) not to rip any bands off, except those we like.

CRUSADER: I know that you don't want to be classed as a christian band. How would you classify yourself?
PRAYER: We don't classify ourselves as a christian band (but don't compromise). We are a bunch of musicians playing, new
school hardcore Metal and using that as a medium (which we love) to put our message across. Our band members are like the
looney tunes NUTS!

CRUSADER: I know that you are planning on bringing out a demo soon. When can we expect to get hold of it?
PRAYER: God willing we will bring out a demo in September some time.

CRUSADER: Are you going to include the two tracks "Communion of Blood" and "Hardcore" (from the 13 CD)
on your new demo, or is it going to be all new stuff?
PRAYER: Are you nuts!!! We don't want to bore you to death (pardon the pun). All fresh new stuff with a hint of charisma
and sheer heaviness (well we like to think...sort of).

CRUSADER: What can we expect from the demo?
PRAYER: Well...... a plastic tape cover containing a leaflet and a cassette with music on...... (excellent answer! - Mocke).
Seriously you can expect a good production. We will have six or so tracks on it, in our new style which is new style hardcore
Metal (more emotional, more attitude and heavier) and we hope to make your cellulite rumble.

CRUSADER: What are your feelings towards the support you are getting in your home country, South Africa?
PRAYER: The Metal scene in SA is definitely growing fastish, which is good. We are overwhelmed by the support we get
(which ranges from excellent to sommer net boggerol). But we always are thankful and appreciate which ever way it goes.

CRUSADER: What are Prayer's future plans?
PRAYER: Well short term......to finish this interview......Our plans to record, bring out quality merchandise and to go full-time
into "ministry", play as many shows as possible to get god's name out and then only ours. When possible we will like to do a
tour sometime or other we will see what god wants.

One more thing to add. We are serious about our christianity and jesus christ and we are not ashamed of him at all. To him be
the glory. To all those who persuade us, thanx it only makes us stronger!!!! Thanx to the CRUSADER 'zine for this interview
and J.G. Mocke from DARK AGES DISTRIBUTION for the interest in us. Thanks (and to Sean our curly creature). Contact:
62 Panorama Drive, Stellenberg, Bellville, 7530, Cape Town, South Africa.
www.nis.za/mit/prayer, e-mail: prayer@nis.co.za