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2 Shadows Show They Are Ready For Prime Time With New Song “Mad God”

Somehow I missed hearing 2 Shadows until now. I intend to redress that oversight with this review. The pair of lead singer Glen Bridden and guitarist Tyrst Germaine first banded together as 2 Shadows in 2015 yet still deliver new music with every bit of the passion you’d expect from a hungry debuting act with a chip on their shoulder and something to prove. They are in full effect during their new single “Mad God” and, frankly, I haven’t heard metal this immediate and bracing in many years. This band is definitely ready for prime time and I don’t think there’s any stopping them.

Tryst Germaine’s mammoth guitar sound will be a big reason why. It is one of the chief characteristics of their music that I believe separates 2 Shadows from many of their brethren. It immediately dominated the song once it entered the picture in full force, but I must say that it never diminishes the vocal. This is because both Tryst’s guitar, as well as other elements of the song, are so well produced that there isn’t a single component that stands out at the expense of another.

Glen Bridden may be the only singer alive who could keep up with him and this demanding track. Segueing from the bleak and ruminative opening featuring his voice and piano into the six-string bloodletting that follows isn’t something every vocalist can do. He does and, in my opinion, makes it sound easy. He hits many particularly thrilling high points during the song’s more aggressive sections that will leave all but the hardest of hearts thrilled by his musical presence.

Presence is something that this song and band have in abundance. I mentioned that Germaine’s guitar has an all-consuming sound, but it’s really the band as a whole that cannot be denied. The opening section with its piano and singing creates a world all its own without ever seeming like some sort of put on. There’s no doubt in my mind that 2 Shadows would still make music together even if they never recorded another note. These guys are “lifers” and you hear it in their voice and playing alike.

It ends conclusively bookended by the same quiet atmospherics that begins the song. It’s another indication of how the band began the recording process for this track with a clear imaginative vision and followed it through to its logical conclusion. Their focus pays off with one of the most thunderous metal/hard rock tracks in recent memory high and leaves a mark on listeners.

There’s so much music out there and so little time. 2 Shadows simply hadn’t landed on my radar yet. Well, they’re here now, and here they’ll stay. As an older metal fan, I am thrilled to hear a band that likes living on a creative knife edge, but I’m even happier to hear a band that compromises nothing and says take us as we are because we aren’t going anywhere. The single “Mad God” proves 2 Shadows will be with us for some time to come and we, as music fans, are better off for it.

Brent Musgrave

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Fiery And Unapologetic: Pamela Hopkins “Burn It Down”

Pamela Hopkins’ new single “Burn It Down” is a fiery and unapologetic anthem of empowerment that takes the listener through an emotional journey of betrayal and reclamation. With co-writers Dave Lenahan and Scott Barrier, Hopkins crafts a narrative that diverges from the typical revenge tale by focusing on the protagonist’s decision to seek liberation rather than retribution.

The song starts with a somber acknowledgment of trust broken by both a partner and a friend, setting the emotional tone for the track. Hopkins’ lyrics are direct and vivid, painting a picture of the protagonist’s internal struggle before she chooses to rise above the ashes of her past. The phrase “throwing a match on kerosene” is a striking metaphor that encapsulates the explosive nature of betrayal and the drastic emotional consequences it entails. However, instead of wallowing in revenge, the protagonist claims her power back by letting go of what once was, symbolized by the metaphorical burning of the life she built with her partner.

Musically, “Burn It Down” features Hopkins’ signature blend of country grit and emotional depth. Her vocal delivery is compelling, capturing the rawness of the song’s theme with a blend of anger, sadness, and eventual resolve. The instrumentation complements the narrative, with a driving rhythm that mirrors the protagonist’s journey from shock and anger to empowerment. The chorus is particularly impactful, with its catchy and defiant lines that echo the protagonist’s determination to take control of her fate: “Bet your ass I’m goin’ out in a blaze.”

Hopkins’ performance in “Burn It Down” is a testament to her skill as both a vocalist and a storyteller. She navigates the song’s emotional complexity with grace, allowing listeners to feel the protagonist’s pain and her subsequent empowerment. The song’s bridge is a highlight, as it portrays a sense of closure and finality, culminating in the protagonist watching her past go up in flames, not with regret but with a sense of pride and self-worth.

What sets “Burn It Down” apart from other songs in the revenge genre is its emphasis on personal strength and the idea of starting anew. The protagonist isn’t looking for revenge in the traditional sense; she’s seeking a clean slate, a chance to rebuild without the shadows of her past holding her back. This theme is universal and resonates with anyone who has faced betrayal and found the strength to move forward.

Pamela Hopkins continues to establish herself as a significant force in the country music scene with this release. Her ability to infuse personal experience and emotional storytelling into her music allows her to connect deeply with her audience. “Burn It Down” is a powerful addition to her discography, showcasing her vocal prowess and her knack for crafting songs that are both relatable and cathartic.

In summary, “Burn It Down” is more than just a song about betrayal; it’s an anthem for anyone who has ever had to pick up the pieces and find strength in the aftermath of a broken relationship. Through her storytelling and commanding vocals, Pamela Hopkins delivers a song that is both a personal catharsis and a rallying cry for empowerment.

-Frank Fantina

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Staying Positive While Looking for a Kidney: The Inspiring Journey of ATown

In the spotlight of social media, ATown has captivated audiences with his unique talent—a birdcall that has become synonymous with his brand. Known not only for his distinctive sound but also for his connections with big names like Meek Mill and Snoop Dogg, ATown once basked in the glow of fame and fortune. However, life took an unexpected turn, and the Instagram celebrity now finds himself in a challenging battle for his health, desperately searching for a kidney.

Despite the gravity of his situation, ATown has chosen to focus on the silver linings rather than succumb to despair. His resilience and positivity are truly inspiring. Rather than retreating from the public eye, ATown is actively engaging with his fans and continuing to create music. His latest single, “Konnichiwa,” has garnered over 50,000 views on YouTube, showcasing his unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to connect with his audience, even in tough times.

ATown’s journey is a testament to the power of positivity and the human spirit. Instead of allowing his health struggles to define him, he remains proactive in his search for a kidney while continuing to pursue his passion for music. By sharing his experiences through social media, he not only raises awareness about organ donation but also inspires others who may be facing similar challenges.