DECODING UNCERTAINTY

 THE QUANTUM WORLD OF HATS OFF ITS ADEQUATE LATEST RELEASE TITLED

"The Uncertainty Principle"

Interview & Review by Adriana Rubio

Photos: Courtesy of Hats Off Gentlemen, It's Adequate

"Hats Off Gentlemen It’s Adequate" are a London-based band with a unique rocking progressive sound, a very well done and distinctive combination of styles in the genre of experimental rock with funk and classical elements along with deep thoughts lyrics and scientific views. 

They are Malcolm Galloway, a multi-instrumentalist singer and producer, accompanied by co-producer Mark Gatland on bass guitar, backing vocals and keyboards. They also count with the participation of Kathryn Thomas playing the flute. 

I had the opportunity to interview Malcolm and Mark prior to the album release. It was an engaging talk where they provided insights on the album that allowed me to delve deeper into its context. The Uncertainty Principle is undoubtedly a conceptual album, beginning with the first visual aspect of it by looking at the art cover. The colors and the combination of meticulously selected images are striking.

But before getting into their newest album, let's talk about the band's name and their background in their own words. 

Regarding the band's name, Malcolm says it was a self-propagating taken from Robert Schumann's review of Frédéric Chopin's music saying, "Hats Off, Gentlemen, a Genius!", like preparing people for something impressive. Malcolm smiled nicely and said that the name doesn't really fit with their music, it was many years ago. On his part Mark adds that they don't force any certain area of their music because of the name. We can go anywhere we want musically. 

Malcolm and Mark play musical instruments from when they were 12 or 13 years old. Mark says he was gigging all over the place in his teens and twenties. They lost touch musically for a short period of time. Malcolm wanted to become a doctor, so he focused on medicine school for a while. He then started doing some solo songwriting and gigs, and that's when Mark went to one of those gigs. They reconnected musically again until the present days.

They remembered the time when they used to play through Queen, and Pink Floyd songbooks among some other acts. Malcolm and Mark notice how different it is to write your own music; both see the growth as songwriters and producers over the years.

It's really interesting the way these two musicians understand and complement each other during the writing process and recordings as it's all done with a laptop sending material back and forth respectively. Hats Off band were growing in parallel with the technology progress for the last 20 years, so there's no need to work in recording studios other than their own software. Recording remotely gives them flexibility and control over the creative process. It reflects their experimental ethos, using technology to push boundaries. 

Malcolm has always been interested in science history and Quantum Physics, he did and extense research especially on the early part of the last century about the uncertainty principle, the idea of knowing about another aspect of it which complements with his area of teaching, (over confidence and excesive certainty), having a belief and then challenge it when the situation changes. 

The Uncertainty Principle, the newest album by "Hats Off, Gentlemen, it's Adequate", is one of the greatest I listened recently, each track transports the listener progressively to the next one. I tried different tracks choosing them randomly, it works, but there's no comparison when listened track after track, it feels as the listener is part of the challenge as having to confront and make changes in every step. 

The album is awesomely produced, great progression from "Certainty" to "Everything Changes". It suggests a deep journey into the evolving nature of scientific understanding.

The whole album captures the emotional struggle and sense of loss that came with abandoning the old traditional scientific certainties, being challenged to change. Intense and dramatic!

Every track showcases a captivating theme, masterfully crafted with outstanding tunes and melodic vocals, accompanied by amazing guitar playing and deeply grooving bass lines. Together, they create a distinct sound that delves into the experimental realm while remaining anchored to the core essence of great songwriting.

Tracklisting:

1. 1-Certainty
2. 2-Everything Changed
3. 3-The Ultraviolet Catastrophe
4. 4-Copenhagen
5. 5-Cause and Effect (But not necessarily in that order)
6. 6-The Uncertainty Principle
7. 7-Inside the Atom
8. 8-The Think Tank
9. 9-One Wordf that means the World (Arkhipov)
10. 10-Between Two Worlds
11. 11-Living with Uncertainty

"The 8th album by Hats Off Gentlemen It's Adequate explores the idea of uncertainty. Certainty is, on the whole, comfortable, but often misleading and dangerous".

Released March 4, 2025.

Music written by Malcolm Galloway and Mark Gatland

Malcolm Galloway - lyrics, lead guitar, synths, mastering.

Mark Gatland - bass guitar, vocal engineer, additional guitars and synths, co-producer.

Produced by Malcolm Galloway and Mark Gatland tracks 1-5,7-9, 11, and Malcolm Galloway, Mark Gatland and Kathryn Thomas on tracks 6,10.

With Kathryn Thomas on flute track 6, backing vocals on track 11, co-producer track 10 - flute and Ethan Galloway (vocals) track 11.

For more info on the band and previous albums and gigs, please visit the band's camp at: 

https://hatsoffgentlemen.bandcamp.com/album/the-uncertainty-principle

RON COOLEN & KEITH St. JOHN

HERE TO STAY

The Newest Album

Press Release Three electrifying bonus from the album "Here to Stay" are finally being released on all major streaming platforms. Previously available only on the CD edition, these tracks are now accessible to fans worldwide. Prepare yourself for an extended, high-energy rendition of "Heavy Till I’m Dead," a powerful remake of "Sin City," and the captivating instrumental piece "Reprise." These tracks feature an impressive lineup, including vocalist Keith St. John and world guitarists Joey Concepcion ( Enemy), Satchel (Steel Panther), George Lynch (Dokken, Lynch Mob), and Timo Som. Don’t miss out on this exciting release! For more details about this launch and future projects, feel free to visit Ron Coleen website: www.roncoolen.rocks

LISTEN TO THE BONUS TRACKS ON SPOTIFY, click HERE LISTEN TO THE BONUS TRACKS ON YOUR FAVORITE STREAMING PLATFORM, click HERE

70000 TONS OF METAL FESTIVAL

 THE HEAVY METAL CRUISE FESTIVAL

January 30th-February 3rd

2025

The 70000 Tons of Metal festival is the world's biggest heavy metal cruise for metal fans to enjoy five days and four nights as never imagined. Departing from Miami, Florida on January 30th, to Ocho Rios, Jamaica in the Caribbean Sea.

This epic event features more than 40 heavy metal bands performing over hundred live shows. Additionally, there will be artist clinics, album premiere listening and autograph sessions among many other activities to enjoy in a fan-friendly environment.

As of today, I've seen 40 bands listed alphabetically (confirmed) on the event's website. Among all of them I found a very interesting lineup: Sepultura, Stratovarius, Sonata Artica, Kalmah, The Zenith Passage, Beyond Creation and a lot more for metal fans to headbang!

For more information on The 70000 Tons of Metal festival such as booking, prices per person, age requirements, payments, complete artists lineup, the ship, and whatever you need to know about the event, please visit the festival website at:

https://70000tons.com/home/

ROCKING THE METAL SCENE:

 INSIDE METAL FACTORY

...For the next generation of Metal Legends...

Photographs credits to Metal Factory

Nestled in the heart of Eindhoven, Netherlands, Metal Factory stands as a beacon for aspiring metal musicians. This amazing music school offers specialized training to develop your gutural vocals as well as learning to play drums, bass guitar, lead and rhythm guitars, and keyboard, all under the guidance of real industry leaders. With a curriculum that balances artistic development and business acumen, Metal Factory is more than just a music school, it's a launchpad for the next generation of metal legends.

At Metal Factory, students are mentored by a stellar lineup of teachers who are active in the music industry. These instructors bring the experience from their own careers, having toured the world and worked with renowned bands and artists. From seasoned guitarists and drummers to vocalists and sound engineers, the faculty at Metal Factory ensures that students receive top-notch training with a hands-on approach, combined with real-world insights. All this together prepares students to navigate the challenges of being into the music industry navigating their own paths to success.

Here is the teachers'lineup:

Joost van der Graaf: Bass / Product development (The Curse Made Flesh, Choreomanic, Ex-Creepmime, Ex-Ichaos, Ex-Dew Scented, Ex-Pestilence)

Jacques de Haard: Live sound engineering (Anneke van Giersbergen, Hermano, Biohazard, Bloodsimple, Kamelot)

Merel Bechtold: Guitar (DEAR MOTHER, Ex-MaYaN, Ex-Delain

Max Blok: Guitar (Alkaloid, Dead Eyed Creek

Michel Nienhuis: Guitar (Autarkh, Ex-Dodecahedron)

Jasper Barendregt: Drums (Our Oceans, Dialogia, Ex-Dodecahedron)

Marcela Bovio: Vocals (Stream of Passion, MaYaN, Dark Horse White Horse)

Dave Meester: Guitar (God Dethroned, After Taste)

Yuma van Eekelen: Drums (Crown Compass, Quadvium, Exivious, Ex-Pestilence)

Kevin Quilligan: Vocals (Ghost of Mirach, After Taste)

Bart Hennephof: Guitar (Textures, Amend)

Maarten Jung: Guitar (Aeverium, junXion)

Robin Zielhorst: Bass (Our Oceans, Crown Compass, Amend, Ex-Cynic)

Stef Broks: Drums (Textures)

For more information on Metal Factory, feel free to visit their website at: 

https://www.metalfactory.education/about-metal-factory/ 

HONORING SYD BARRETT

 ON HIS 79th BIRTHDAY

(January 6th, 1946 - July 7th, 2006)

Syd Barrett was a founding member of Pink Floyd and a huge influence on psychedelic-experimental music worldwide. His distinctive guitar playing and experimental approach shaped the band's sound. 

Syd was known for his innovative use of guitar effects. He often employed echo and reverb to create a cavernous sound. Barrett's slide guitar techniques, using a Zippo lighter or a steel slide to produce eerie, gliding notes were brilliantly performed in studio sessions as well as in live gigs. Syd was at some point the master of feedback sound, creating amazing textures of different flavors. His approach was centered on pushing the boundaries of conventional guitar playing.

Barrett's vocal contributions imbued Pink Floyd's early compositions with a distinctive childlike character making it a unique gifted singing style embellished with a bit of darkness and surreal lyrics.  

After leaving Pink Floyd, Syd Barrett embarked on a solo career, releasing "The Madcap Laughs" in January of 1970, and "Barrett" in November of 1970. The two were recorded in London at Abbey Road Studios. 

Barrett's songwriting is highlighted as previously said by surreal lyrics and unconventional structures. Tracks such as "Octopus", "Dominoes", Effervescing Elephant" exhibit his playful wordplay and ability to create vivid imagery for the listener to enjoy the stories in them. 

Although these albums initially received mixed reviews, are now regarded as cult classics, and truly must listen to appreciate Barrett's genius beyond Pink Floyd.

GUESS JEANS CAMPAIGN

 "Gene Gallagher Leads 

the Newest GUESS Jeans Campaign" 

Model & Musician at the Forefront 

Photography by Rafael Pavarotti

The latest GUESS Jeans campaign features the multi-talented Gene Gallagher, who shines as both a model and musician. Known for his striking resemblance to his father, Liam Gallagher, Gene brings a unique blend of charisma and style to the campaign. His work with GUESS Jeans highlights his talent between the worlds of fashion and music.

Photographed by Rafael Pavarotti, the campaign brilliantly captures the essence of creative new voices featuring singer Beabadoobee, model-musician Gene Gallagher and model-poet Kai-Isaiah Jamal.

The classic GUESS Jeans styles, are made with the innovative GUESS AIRWASH™ technology since 2024, an eco-friendly and groundbreaking commitment in denim manufacturing, also described as "The Future Of Denim", assuring that both look and feel of GUESS Jeans are successfully achieved with significantly reduced water and energy consumption.

"CHUCK SCHULDINER"

 THE GODFATHER OF DEATH METAL

 

Photo by Barbara Stiller

Chuck Schuldiner, often hailed as the "Godfather of Death Metal", was a talented musician whose impact on the genre is by far incalculable.

Born on May 13, 1967, in Long Island, NY, then moving with his family to Florida, Schuldiner's journey into music began at a young age, and by the time he was 16, he had formed the band Mantas that would come to be known as Death shortly after. His approach to play metal feels as the combination of the intensity of bands like Venom and Slayer with a unique and powerful technique, carving out a new path in the heavy metal landscape.

Death was not just a band with a provocative name but a musical revolution that pushed the boundaries of metal music. From their raw beginnings to more sophisticated and technically complex songwriting, Death's evolution mirrored Schuldiner's growth as a musician and songwriter. His lyrics are profound as they dive into the complexities of human emotions and the philosophical questions and answers of existence. 

Sadly, Chuck Schuldiner's life was prematurely ended due to a rare and aggressive brain tumor known as Pontine Glioma. Despite the bleak outlook typically associated with such diagnoses, Schuldiner had surgery in New York City in January 2000. The operation successfully excised a portion of the tumor, enabling him to resume his work with Control Denied, the band he had established as a shift from Death's style to progressive power metal. Unfortunately, Chuck succumbed to the illness on December 13, 2001, leaving this world at the age of 34. His passing still represents a big loss to the metal music community.

 

 

OASIS LIVE '25

 The upcoming reunion of 

the Gallagher brothers

The long-awaited moment is finally upon us! After years of speculation, heated exchanges, and a rollercoaster of emotions for fans worldwide, Liam and Noel are coming back together for a reunion tour that is set to be an epic event.

The Oasis 2025 reunion tour signifies the conclusion of a 15-year hiatus, which ensued after a turbulent separation caused by the notorious feud between the brothers. The announcement created a crazy wave of excitement worldwide, with fans eagerly anticipating the opportunity to witness the iconic Britpop band perform live again. 

The tour will feature 14 shows spread over five cities, including Cardiff, Manchester, London, Edinburgh, and Dublin, making these exclusive European appearances a must-see event for die-hard Oasis fans.

Here is the link to watch the official trailer: 

Oasis Live '25

https://youtu.be/gol_JnuEtKM

LAYNE STALEY´S DAY...

The iconic lead singer of Alice in Chains

Layne Staley would have turned 57 on August 22, 2024. Layne's powerful voice, haunting lyrics and heartfelt singing style created the perfect sound for a genre that defined a new music taste for a generation worldwide. 

As I look back on his life and career, it's clear that Layne Staley was more than just a musician or rock star; he was true to himself, a talented visual artist and for the most part a sweet human being who poured his heart and soul into his work. 

The music of Alice in Chains addressed the challenges many people encountered, and Layne Staley's candidness about his personal struggles, opened a genuine door that deeply connected with the audience.

Aside from Alice In Chains, Layne Staley's talent and passion for music also led him to create his own music project Mad Season, joining forces with Mike McCready of Pearl Jam, Barrett Martin of Screaming Trees, and John Baker Saunders of The Walkabouts. Mad Season was a project that allowed Staley to explore different musical fields to express himself in new ways.

He also incurred into a notable collaboration with Class of ´99 for the soundtrack of the science fiction movie The Faculty. The band was formed by members of prestigious bands cited as follows: Layne Staley of Alice In Chains, Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine, Stephen Perkins of Jane´s Addiction, Martyn Le Noble of Porno for Pyros and Matt Serletic of Collective Soul. The five members contributed to cover Pink Floyd´s Another Brick in the Wall (Part I and Part II).

Through these associations and more, Layne Staley left an enormous mark on the music world, not only with his performances with Alice in Chains but also with his work in other projects that highlight his talent, creativity, songwriting and singing style right to the top.

Despite his untimely passing on April 5th, 2002, Layne Staley's legacy continues to inspire artists and fans around the globe.

Happy Birthday Layne! You're greatly missed.

ROCKLAHOMA FESTIVAL

 Exploring the Vibrancy of Rocklahoma: 
A Festival for headbangers!

Rocklahoma, the annual festival that has become a beacon for rock music enthusiasts, is a celebration of sound, spirit, and community. Nestled in the vast expanses of Pryor, Oklahoma, this event has grown to be one of the most anticipated music festivals in the United States.

The festival's origins trace back to 2007, where it began as a homage to rock music's past and present. It has since evolved, showcasing a blend of classic bands and contemporary artists, creating a lineup that resonates with fans across generations. 

The lineup for Rocklahoma 2024 promises to be as thrilling as ever, with a diverse array of artists set to take the stage. From heavy metal to hard rock, the festival caters to a wide spectrum of musical tastes.

Rocklahoma Festival it's a place where legends of the genre are celebrated, where new favorites are discovered, and where music lovers come together to enjoy the power of rock.

Rocklahoma Festival 2024 is gearing up to be an unforgettable experience with a lineup that promises to deliver some of the most electrifying performances in the rock world. Headlining the event are none other than Slipknot, Avenged Sevenfold, and Disturbed. You can't miss it!

Slipknot will be celebrating the 25th anniversary of their debut album, marking a significant milestone in their career. Their performance is highly anticipated by fans eager to witness the band's legendary energy live on stage.

Avenged Sevenfold will be making their Rocklahoma debut and it's set to be their only remaining U.S. show in 2024.  Disturbed, will take the stage on Saturday night, offering fans a dose of the intense and thought-provoking music they're famous for.

In addition to these headliners, the festival will also feature performances from Evanescence, Halestorm, Skillet, Mastodon, and a reunited Anthrax, among other great acts. These bands bring a diverse range of rock and metal sounds, ensuring that there's something for every type of rock enthusiast at the festival.

For more details on the lineup and to get a glimpse of what's in store for Rocklahoma 2024, feel free to visit the official festival website at:

Lineup - Rocklahoma 2024 | Pryor, OK