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Metalunderground.com Official Podcast, Episode 36: At The Gates Of Awesomeness

Band Photo: Amon Amarth (?)

In addition to the upcoming Attila show at Fort Lauderdale’s Revolution Live on Friday, November 14th (supported by Crown The Empire and Like Moths To Flames), we at the MetalUnderground.com Official Podcast are now staging another ticket giveaway contest through the same venue: The Ghost Inside (supported by Every Time I Die and Architects) on Sunday, November 30th. If interested, submit your full name matching your ID to podcast@metalunderground.com with one of the headlining bands in the subject line.

This week, we’re proud to present music from Boston, Massachusetts all-purpose metal act Skull Hammer, a formidable “power trio” that incorporates all forms of classic metal from hard rock to power metal, from speed metal to thrash. The band released the EP “Fear The Truth” in 2008 and the full-length “Pay It In Blood” in 2010, and are currently preparing a second album.

Next, co-hosts Mike Smith (OverkillExposure) and Kevin Perez (n0thinghead) react to some unusual news from Ohio’s Skeletonwitch: frontman Chance Garnette has been forced to sit out the rest of the band’s current tour with Amon Amarth and Sabaton, leaving his bandmates to complete the run as an instrumental four-piece. And what are the real reasons behind The Faceless’s sudden loss of its entire rhythm section? Could the departure of key members be tied to the long-swirling rumors of a tyrant in the band’s midst? Speculation abounds.

Finally, we review the imminent studio release from Gothenburg’s At The Gates, “At War With Reality,” and offer some extensive thoughts not only on the music itself, but on the far-reaching legacy of the landmark 1995 album “Slaughter Of The Soul” and what it might mean for today’s audience when faced with new material from “returning metal gods.” Have fans placed At The Gates on too high a pedestal, and could that damage their listening experience?

For Mike’s and Kevin’s full lineup of thoughts, babble, and bullshit this week, tune in here, and don’t forget to subscribe via iTunes or RSS feed. Enjoy!