The Darkness #80

The dedicated fans of the legendary but also problematic Prog/Power Metallers Crimson Glory who made a sensation in the late 80’s and early 90’s, will remember that in 1999 they released their controversial fourth and last album, “Astronomica” after several back and forth. On that album, Wade Black, a tireless heavy metal worker was their frontman. Wade Black’s latest project is Astronomica, with a name (and artwork) obviously influenced by his participation in that Crimson Glory album. But this is where the similarities on every level stop. Black doesn’t revisit his prog/power past with Crimson Glory but sticks to what he knows better, namely a heavy metal approach of a clear old school aesthetic. In almost an hour, Astronomica offer us a heavy metal creation, without much inspiration and originality, that is nevertheless well crafted and what really stands out are some excellent guitar solos by Rich Marks (War of Thrones).

Great compilation for those who appreciate the different faces of rock music, from the gentler, the more pop through the independent to the hardcore, hard rock. 80 songs recorded on the four CDs. For rock fans, Fleetwood Mac and Do not Stop, alternative fans can savor The Smith and their classic "How Soon Is Now?". There are also Dr. Feelgood ("Milk and Alcohol"), Echo And The Bunnymen (The Cutter), The Darkness ("I Believe In A Thing Called Love"), Royal Blood ("Out Of The Black"), Biffy Clyro ("Mountains").

Everest: Beyond the Limit is a Discovery Channel reality television series about yearly attempts to summit Mount Everest organized and led by New Zealander Russell Brice. For the first season, a 17 member production crew followed 11 climbers, three guides, and a team of Sherpas up the mountain in April and May 2006. The first season's six-part series included double-amputee Mark Inglis' ascent and brief footage of British climber David Sharp, who died in the attempt. The series was shot using high altitude equipment and helmet mounted cameras worn by Sherpas.