The Uncarved Block

Reviews and Interviews

The Uncarved Block

The Online magazine dedicated to Unsigned/Independent Label bands

Updated:23/03/24

Reviews and Interviews

Slift

Album: Ilion

Released 19th January 2024

Get ready for this review.....
We are taken on an emotional, epic journey by Slift.....imagine if the gods of old were really extra-terrestrial visitors either aiding humanity or enslaving it behind worship.......this is a musical rendition of that introduction to the powerful gods, and the sudden collapse of that way of life, perhaps once the visitors left the planet to allow us to fend for ourselves........a crazy theory, but no less provable than any other theory, hahaha?!

Andy

Black Sky Giant

Album: The Red Chariot

Released 1st January 2024

Review on it's way....

Andy

Another Abyss

Single: She Falls Apart

Released 12th January 2024

Review is being compiled.....

Andy

The Lunar Effect

Single: Pulling Daisies

Released 12th January 2024

Review imminent....

Andy

The Silent Era

Single: Heaven/Hell

Released 13th January 2024

Review is on it's way.....

Andy

Giant Lungs

Album: Giant Lungs

Released 7th October 2023

Review is coming, be patient.....

Andy

The Slow Cooked Bears

Album: Dawn To Dusk

Released 8th December 2023

The Slow Cooked Bears have tried something new and daring for their latest release. They spent a day at Temple Studios in London, and recorded six tracks for this live album, and filmed themselves in the process (which can be found on their YouTube channel). Their true talent and musicianship was put on the line with this project and they have risen to the challenge with absolute supremacy! The album has that raw energy that is present in their live performances, yet showcases the precision of a studio recording. These six new songs demonstrate the depth of authentic songwriting in the band, and carry their energy into new avenues for us to enjoy. A wonderful experience.

Andy

Okay You Win

Album: Live From The Pit

Released 8th December 2023

Okay You Win have given us a raw and explosive seven track monster, with "Live From The Pit." The album begins dark and slow, then unwinds like a powerful beast, surging and growling into the depths of a mighty rocky cavern! It emerges with some epic moments of release, down and dirty riffs, wailing solo moments that cut through the deep and raunchy rhythm section, and vocals that add raw power and depth to the songs. Although the band have only been together less than a year, their oneness shines through in their live shows, and this album is indicative of that camaraderie, presented as a punch in the face that we all need to wake up to the talent that is out there in the underground clubs. This is one not to be missed, so go and see them live as soon as you get chance.

Andy

Green Lung

Album: This Heathen Land

Released 3rd November 2023

The Lords of all things Pagan have returned with their third album exploring the ancient, earthly, wisdom of ancient folklore. The album builds on their trademark blend of classic rock, dark tones and folk imagination to bring us eight songs of awesome impact that never fail to lift the senses, whether we are soaring alongside the powerful riffs and guitar solos, or chanting in chorus to the wailing vocals, this album leaves a lasting legacy in your soul. Truly magical!

Andy

HAWXX

Album: Earth Spit Blood Bones

Released 3rd November 2023

And so HAWXX have finally graced us with a full blown album! Throughout the last four years of recording singles, and EPs, they have exploded onto the metal/rock scene with some high action, quality appearances and plenty of big name interest (radio stations, music brands and magazines, etc). The culmination of their experiences has steered us to this album - one that forces itself into your psyche with big guitar and bass riffs, amazing solos, stunningly assured drumming and powerfully emotive vocals. The group have really pulled out all the stops with "Earth, Spit, Blood And Bone", tying together some of their previous hit singles along with some new and poignant album tracks, sculpting an LP that shouts out to be heard repeatedly and truly listened too. This isn't just background music to a mosh pit, this is serious "stand up and be counted" musicianship. A fantastic journey into morality and self fulfillment wrapped into an epic collection of songs. So, turn it up loud and prepare to be blown away!

Andy

Video Selection

Gator, The Alligator "Laminar Flow"

Earth Tongue "Bodies Dissolve Tonight"

Girls In Synthesis "Lights Out"

Karkara "The Chase"

Wynona Bleach "Swim The Bay"

Coastal Fire Dept "Crank"

Allora "Unspoken/Unheard"

Giant Lung "Ego"

Troy The Band "The Void"

Jukebox Monkey "The Never"

Trevor's Head "Under My Skin"

Green Lung "Hunters In The Sky"

Video Selection

Social Media

Blurb

And the people must have something to which they can attach themselves: exhibit the unadorned and embrace the uncarved block, have little thought of self and as few desires as possible.

"Tao Te Ching" by Lao Tzu

So, just what is "The Uncarved Block" all about?

Well, you would be fooled into thinking that “rock” music in the UK was dead. If the judges on these reality TV programs had their way, that would be the case!

But thankfully, the passion and creativity of musicians has never wavered, and although the major record labels ignore the talent out there, more and more bands are finding the resources to record and advertise their own work. Social media and specific websites are blooming with new music, and bands continue to gig relentlessly to display their creations.

So this is where The Uncarved Block comes in. We aim to champion these bands that are ignored by the mainstream. This digital magazine is devoted to those hard working musicians, giving honest reviews and helping the listener/reader to find new music.

We hope you find our reviews and interviews interesting and enlightening. Any and all feedback is most welcome

Thank you for checking us out