METAL JUKEBOX

Glass Hammer - Ode To Echo (2014)











Year : 2014
Style : Symphonic Progressive Rock
Country : United States
Audio : 320 kbps + all scans
Size : 135 mb

Bio:

Glass Hammer is an American progressive rock band from Chattanooga, Tennessee. They formed in 1992 when multi-instrumentalists Steve Babb and Fred Schendel began to write and record “Journey of the Dunadan”, a concept album based on the story of Aragorn from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. To their surprise, the album sold several thousand units via the Internet, The QVC Shop-At-Home Network, and their own toll-free order number. As such, Babb and Schendel were convinced that the band was a project worth continuing. The stage was then set for a successful career that now includes numerous albums, DVDs and an enthusiastic, world-wide fan base that continues to grow at a steady rate.While many musicians have appeared on Glass Hammer albums over the years, Babb and Schendel have remained the core creative force of the band. Both play a variety of instruments, but Babb is better known as the bassist while Schendel is the primary keyboardist. And though they also sing, a number of other vocalists (most notably Michelle Young, Walter Moore, Susie Bogdanowicz, Carl Groves and Jon Davison) have also handled lead vocal duties.Lyrically, Glass Hammer is inspired mostly by their love of literature (most notably Tolkien, C. S. Lewis and John Krakauer) and Babb’s love of Victorian prose and medieval mythology. Musically, they lean towards 70′s driven symphonic rock, focusing on epic-length songs anchored by Babb’s distinctive bass guitar work and strong keyboard playing from Schendel; specifically Hammond organs in the tradition of ELP. They have a superb melodic flow to the music they make, encapsulating real power and dynamics without ever becoming overpowering. Their most apparent influences are Yes, ELP, Genesis, and, to a less noticeable extent, Camel. Fans and critics are usually quick to attest that Glass Hammer have managed to combine those influences into a unique style all their own.Critically acclaimed albums have continued to flow from the Glass Hammer studio, with the most successful and noteworthy being “Chronomtree” (2000), “Lex Rex” (2002), “The Inconsolable Secret” (2005) and “IF” (2010). Vocalists and fan-favorites Carl Groves and Susie Bogdanowicz took a temporary hiatus from the band after 2009 and vocalist Jon Davison took over as lead vocalist for three studio albums; “IF”, “Cor Cordium” and “Perilous”. Kamran Alan Shikoh joined the band at the same time taking on the role of guitarist.Both Shikoh and Davison remain in the group currently, though Davison has also assumed the role as front-man for Yes. This led to Carl Groves rejoining the Glass Hammer in 2013 for live performances and recording. Aaron Raulston joined at the same time as drummer for the group. Susie Bogdanowicz rejoined in late 2013 and is slated to appear along with Raulston, Groves and Shikoh in 2014 concerts.Glass Hammer’s “Ode To Echo” release for 2014 features performances by many of the band’s vocalists, including Bogdanowicz, Young, Moore and Davison, though Carl Groves is handling the lion’s share of the vocal duties for the band. The current official lineup for Glass Hammer is Babb, Schendel, Groves, Shikoh, Raulston, Bogdaniwcz and Davison.Other prog musicians and rock artists have made contributions to Glass Hammer projects, including Jon Anderson of Yes, Arjen Lucassen, Rich Williams and David Ragsdale of Kansas, Rob Reed of Magenta and Randy Jackson of Zebra. Glass Hammer has also appeared with The Adonia String Trio and performed two concerts (2006-2007) with 120 plus member choirs from Belmont University and Lee University.

Line Up:

Fred Schendel
Steve Babb
Kamran Alan Shikoh
Carl Groves
Aaron Raulston
Susie Bogdanowicz
Jon Davison

Tracklist:

01. Garden of Hedon
02. Misantrog
03. Crowbone
04. I Am I
05. The Grey Hills
06. Porpoise Song
07. Panegyric
08. Ozymandias




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

Glass Hammer - Mostly Live In Italy (2018)













Year : 2018
Style : Symphonic Progressive Rock , Female vocals
Country : United States
Audio : 320 kbps + front
Size : 169 mb

Bio:

Glass Hammer is an American progressive rock band from Chattanooga, Tennessee. They formed in 1992 when multi-instrumentalists Steve Babb and Fred Schendel began to write and record “Journey of the Dunadan”, a concept album based on the story of Aragorn from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. To their surprise, the album sold several thousand units via the Internet, The QVC Shop-At-Home Network, and their own toll-free order number. As such, Babb and Schendel were convinced that the band was a project worth continuing. The stage was then set for a successful career that now includes numerous albums, DVDs and an enthusiastic, world-wide fan base that continues to grow at a steady rate.While many musicians have appeared on Glass Hammer albums over the years, Babb and Schendel have remained the core creative force of the band. Both play a variety of instruments, but Babb is better known as the bassist while Schendel is the primary keyboardist. And though they also sing, a number of other vocalists (most notably Michelle Young, Walter Moore, Susie Bogdanowicz, Carl Groves and Jon Davison) have also handled lead vocal duties.Lyrically, Glass Hammer is inspired mostly by their love of literature (most notably Tolkien, C. S. Lewis and John Krakauer) and Babb’s love of Victorian prose and medieval mythology. Musically, they lean towards 70′s driven symphonic rock, focusing on epic-length songs anchored by Babb’s distinctive bass guitar work and strong keyboard playing from Schendel; specifically Hammond organs in the tradition of ELP. They have a superb melodic flow to the music they make, encapsulating real power and dynamics without ever becoming overpowering. Their most apparent influences are Yes, ELP, Genesis, and, to a less noticeable extent, Camel. Fans and critics are usually quick to attest that Glass Hammer have managed to combine those influences into a unique style all their own.Critically acclaimed albums have continued to flow from the Glass Hammer studio, with the most successful and noteworthy being “Chronomtree” (2000), “Lex Rex” (2002), “The Inconsolable Secret” (2005) and “IF” (2010). Vocalists and fan-favorites Carl Groves and Susie Bogdanowicz took a temporary hiatus from the band after 2009 and vocalist Jon Davison took over as lead vocalist for three studio albums; “IF”, “Cor Cordium” and “Perilous”. Kamran Alan Shikoh joined the band at the same time taking on the role of guitarist.Both Shikoh and Davison remain in the group currently, though Davison has also assumed the role as front-man for Yes. This led to Carl Groves rejoining the Glass Hammer in 2013 for live performances and recording. Aaron Raulston joined at the same time as drummer for the group. Susie Bogdanowicz rejoined in late 2013 and is slated to appear along with Raulston, Groves and Shikoh in 2014 concerts.Glass Hammer’s “Ode To Echo” release for 2014 features performances by many of the band’s vocalists, including Bogdanowicz, Young, Moore and Davison, though Carl Groves is handling the lion’s share of the vocal duties for the band. The current official lineup for Glass Hammer is Babb, Schendel, Groves, Shikoh, Raulston, Bogdaniwcz and Davison.Other prog musicians and rock artists have made contributions to Glass Hammer projects, including Jon Anderson of Yes, Arjen Lucassen, Rich Williams and David Ragsdale of Kansas, Rob Reed of Magenta and Randy Jackson of Zebra. Glass Hammer has also appeared with The Adonia String Trio and performed two concerts (2006-2007) with 120 plus member choirs from Belmont University and Lee University.

Album:

American prog band Glass Hammer continues its 25th anniversary celebration with the release of a new live album featuring their performance at last fall's 2 Days + 1 Prog Festival in Veruno, Italy. "It's mostly live because Fred Schendel actually played and re-recorded the guitar back at our studio", reveals bassist Steve Babb. "The Veruno tracks represented an opportunity to do something really unique with our 'Valkyrie' album material: adding some new ideas to the mix while preserving the integrity and energy of the live show. 'Mostly Live In Italy' represents our first-ever concert in Italy and we were determined to create an incredible memento from that experience that our fans would love!" Nearly the entire "Valkyrie" album is included in this performance along with approximately twenty minutes of other Glass Hammer classics including "If The Sun".

Line Up:

Susie Bogdanowicz (lv, bv)
Kamran Alan Shikoh (g, electric si)
Fred Schendel (k, g, bv)
Steve Babb (b, k, bv)
Aaron Raulston (d)

Tracklist:

01. The Fields We Know
02. Golden Days
03. No Man's Land
04. Nexus Girl
05. Fog Of War
06. Dead And Gone
07. Eucatastrophe
08. Rapturo
09. Glass Hammer Medley (Chronos Deliverer / If The Sun)
10. Hyperbole




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

Glass Hammer - Chronomonaut (2018)













Year : 2018
Style : Symphonic Progressive Rock , Female vocals
Country : United States
Audio : 320 kbps + scans + Video
Size : 187 mb

Bio:

Glass Hammer is an American progressive rock band from Chattanooga, Tennessee. They formed in 1992 when multi-instrumentalists Steve Babb and Fred Schendel began to write and record “Journey of the Dunadan”, a concept album based on the story of Aragorn from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. To their surprise, the album sold several thousand units via the Internet, The QVC Shop-At-Home Network, and their own toll-free order number. As such, Babb and Schendel were convinced that the band was a project worth continuing. The stage was then set for a successful career that now includes numerous albums, DVDs and an enthusiastic, world-wide fan base that continues to grow at a steady rate.While many musicians have appeared on Glass Hammer albums over the years, Babb and Schendel have remained the core creative force of the band. Both play a variety of instruments, but Babb is better known as the bassist while Schendel is the primary keyboardist. And though they also sing, a number of other vocalists (most notably Michelle Young, Walter Moore, Susie Bogdanowicz, Carl Groves and Jon Davison) have also handled lead vocal duties.Lyrically, Glass Hammer is inspired mostly by their love of literature (most notably Tolkien, C. S. Lewis and John Krakauer) and Babb’s love of Victorian prose and medieval mythology. Musically, they lean towards 70′s driven symphonic rock, focusing on epic-length songs anchored by Babb’s distinctive bass guitar work and strong keyboard playing from Schendel; specifically Hammond organs in the tradition of ELP. They have a superb melodic flow to the music they make, encapsulating real power and dynamics without ever becoming overpowering. Their most apparent influences are Yes, ELP, Genesis, and, to a less noticeable extent, Camel. Fans and critics are usually quick to attest that Glass Hammer have managed to combine those influences into a unique style all their own.Critically acclaimed albums have continued to flow from the Glass Hammer studio, with the most successful and noteworthy being “Chronomtree” (2000), “Lex Rex” (2002), “The Inconsolable Secret” (2005) and “IF” (2010). Vocalists and fan-favorites Carl Groves and Susie Bogdanowicz took a temporary hiatus from the band after 2009 and vocalist Jon Davison took over as lead vocalist for three studio albums; “IF”, “Cor Cordium” and “Perilous”. Kamran Alan Shikoh joined the band at the same time taking on the role of guitarist.Both Shikoh and Davison remain in the group currently, though Davison has also assumed the role as front-man for Yes. This led to Carl Groves rejoining the Glass Hammer in 2013 for live performances and recording. Aaron Raulston joined at the same time as drummer for the group. Susie Bogdanowicz rejoined in late 2013 and is slated to appear along with Raulston, Groves and Shikoh in 2014 concerts.Glass Hammer’s “Ode To Echo” release for 2014 features performances by many of the band’s vocalists, including Bogdanowicz, Young, Moore and Davison, though Carl Groves is handling the lion’s share of the vocal duties for the band. The current official lineup for Glass Hammer is Babb, Schendel, Groves, Shikoh, Raulston, Bogdaniwcz and Davison.Other prog musicians and rock artists have made contributions to Glass Hammer projects, including Jon Anderson of Yes, Arjen Lucassen, Rich Williams and David Ragsdale of Kansas, Rob Reed of Magenta and Randy Jackson of Zebra. Glass Hammer has also appeared with The Adonia String Trio and performed two concerts (2006-2007) with 120 plus member choirs from Belmont University and Lee University.

Album:

Chronomonaut is the upcoming seventeenth studio album by American progressive rock band Glass Hammer, to be released on October 12, 2018.A concept album, it is a sequel to the band's 2000's fourth album Chronometree, and features the same character, Tom, now struggling to reach success in the 1980s with his progressive rock band The Elf King; however, it was conceived as a stand-alone story rather than a direct continuation.The album follows Tom Timely in the 1980s, after the events of Chronometree. Now the member of a progressive rock band named The Elf King. Together with his bandmates, which include guitarist Dwight -who often misses rehearsals- and vocalist Arianna, Tom tries to reach success and become a "prog god"; the story also involves him travelling back in the time to the golden age of progressive rock in the 1970s, and going missing.Progradar stated "Glass Hammer make a bold new statement with Chronomonaut’, a new direction that gives them a definitive sound of their own. [...] While not completely straying from their roots, Glass Hammer have taken a path less trodden and delivered what is, without a doubt, their best album yet and a fantastic new direction of power, precision and downright soul." Roie Avin of The Prog Report called the album "a progressive psychedelic trip with a captivating story and enough twists and turns to keep you guessing throughout. 25 years into their career Glass Hammer continue to take risks and the result here is another gem in their impressive catalog."Brad Birzer of Progarchy stated "I could review this as a distinctive piece of American culture and Americana; as a treasure hunt and quest; as a progressive rock album; as a philosophical examination of nostalgia; as a theological pondering on the nature of time; or as a fully-blown science fiction tale worthy of anything written by Robert Heinlein or Kevin J. Anderson. In some way, no review of this album can really be faithful to the material if it doesn’t take into account all of these things.", and called Chronomonaut "a majestic album that calls forth all that is best within us. No small feat, especially in our present cultural whirligig of insanity and horrors. In its own madness, Chronomonaut brings order and truth to the artistic and longing soul."Italian magazine La Gazzetta dello Spettacolo stated "With this new CD Glass Hammer reassert themselves as one of the most interesting and praiseworthy prog rock bands in the world, able to thrill the fans with their music, which is inspired by that of the greats of the genre, but is also rich in various personal inspirations".

Line Up:

Susie Bogdanowicz – lead vocals
Steve Babb – bass, keyboards
Fred Schendel – keyboards, guitars
Aaron Raulston – drums

Production:

Fred Schendel, Steve Babb – production
Bob Katz - mastering
Michal Xaay Loranc - cover art, booklet art

Additional musicians:

Brian Brewer – guitar on "Twilight of the Godz"
Jamison Smeltz – saxophone on "Twilight of the Godz"
Matthew Parmenter – vocals on "The Past is Past"
Chris Herin – guitar
Reese Boyd – guitar solo on "Fade Away"

Tracklist:

01. The Land of Lost Content (1:54)
02. Roll for Initiative (7:43)
03. Twilight of the Godz (8:13)
04. The Past is Past (9:56)
05. 1980 Something (5:51)
06. A Hole in the Sky (4:49)
07. Clockwork (2:17)
08. Melancholy Holiday (4:27)
09. It Always Burns Sideways (5:49)
10. Blinding Light (6:01)
11. Tangerine Meme (3:05)
12. Fade Away (10:27)

+ Video "Melancholy Holiday" (Official Video)




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

Glass Hammer - Dreaming City (2020)













Year : 2020
Style : Symphonic Progressive Rock , Female vocals
Country : United States
Audio : 320 kbps + scans
Size : 156 mb

Bio:

Glass Hammer is an American progressive rock band from Chattanooga, Tennessee. They formed in 1992 when multi-instrumentalists Steve Babb and Fred Schendel began to write and record “Journey of the Dunadan”, a concept album based on the story of Aragorn from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. To their surprise, the album sold several thousand units via the Internet, The QVC Shop-At-Home Network, and their own toll-free order number. As such, Babb and Schendel were convinced that the band was a project worth continuing. The stage was then set for a successful career that now includes numerous albums, DVDs and an enthusiastic, world-wide fan base that continues to grow at a steady rate.While many musicians have appeared on Glass Hammer albums over the years, Babb and Schendel have remained the core creative force of the band. Both play a variety of instruments, but Babb is better known as the bassist while Schendel is the primary keyboardist. And though they also sing, a number of other vocalists (most notably Michelle Young, Walter Moore, Susie Bogdanowicz, Carl Groves and Jon Davison) have also handled lead vocal duties.Lyrically, Glass Hammer is inspired mostly by their love of literature (most notably Tolkien, C. S. Lewis and John Krakauer) and Babb’s love of Victorian prose and medieval mythology. Musically, they lean towards 70′s driven symphonic rock, focusing on epic-length songs anchored by Babb’s distinctive bass guitar work and strong keyboard playing from Schendel; specifically Hammond organs in the tradition of ELP. They have a superb melodic flow to the music they make, encapsulating real power and dynamics without ever becoming overpowering. Their most apparent influences are Yes, ELP, Genesis, and, to a less noticeable extent, Camel. Fans and critics are usually quick to attest that Glass Hammer have managed to combine those influences into a unique style all their own.Critically acclaimed albums have continued to flow from the Glass Hammer studio, with the most successful and noteworthy being “Chronomtree” (2000), “Lex Rex” (2002), “The Inconsolable Secret” (2005) and “IF” (2010). Vocalists and fan-favorites Carl Groves and Susie Bogdanowicz took a temporary hiatus from the band after 2009 and vocalist Jon Davison took over as lead vocalist for three studio albums; “IF”, “Cor Cordium” and “Perilous”. Kamran Alan Shikoh joined the band at the same time taking on the role of guitarist.Both Shikoh and Davison remain in the group currently, though Davison has also assumed the role as front-man for Yes. This led to Carl Groves rejoining the Glass Hammer in 2013 for live performances and recording. Aaron Raulston joined at the same time as drummer for the group. Susie Bogdanowicz rejoined in late 2013 and is slated to appear along with Raulston, Groves and Shikoh in 2014 concerts.Glass Hammer’s “Ode To Echo” release for 2014 features performances by many of the band’s vocalists, including Bogdanowicz, Young, Moore and Davison, though Carl Groves is handling the lion’s share of the vocal duties for the band. The current official lineup for Glass Hammer is Babb, Schendel, Groves, Shikoh, Raulston, Bogdaniwcz and Davison.Other prog musicians and rock artists have made contributions to Glass Hammer projects, including Jon Anderson of Yes, Arjen Lucassen, Rich Williams and David Ragsdale of Kansas, Rob Reed of Magenta and Randy Jackson of Zebra. Glass Hammer has also appeared with The Adonia String Trio and performed two concerts (2006-2007) with 120 plus member choirs from Belmont University and Lee University.

Album:

Glass Hammer returns to the world of 'The Inconsolable Secret' with 2020’s "Dreaming City". Perhaps the band’s most powerful musical statement to date, "Dreaming City" tells the story of a 'desperate man … as doomed as they come' who must fight his way through a spectrum of horrors to rescue his lover. We find out early in the album that the protagonist has only three days to find her before she dies, a dilemma which sets the stage for all that is to come and guarantees an emotional rollercoaster ride for the listener.Glass Hammer have just announced a new album, a return to the world of THE INCONSOLABLE SECRET with 2020’s DREAMING CITY. Perhaps the group’s most powerful musical statement to date, DREAMING CITY tells the story of a “desperate man…as doomed as they come” who must fight his way through a spectrum of horrors to rescue his lover. We find out early in the album that the protagonist has only three days to find her before she dies; a dilemma which sets the stage for all that is to come and guarantees an emotional roller-coaster ride for the listener.Bassist and producer Steve Babb describes the music as a nostalgic homage to several genres including space rock, Berlin-school electronica, seventies metal and early progressive rock. “It’s all done in a way that is distinctly Glass Hammer of course”, he adds. “To convey the album’s story, we gave DREAMING CITY the look and feel of an old paperback adventure novel, including excerpts and illustrations. It’s meant to be an immersive experience, enjoyed from beginning to end, with songs laid out as book chapters. Something we haven’t tried before but think our fans will love!”Babb is joined by Fred Schendel, Aaron Raulston, Susie Bogdanowicz and new Glass Hammer vocalists Reese Boyd and John Beagley.

Line Up:

John Beagley (v)
Susie Bogdanowicz (v)
Reese Boyd (v)
Brian Brewer (g)
Fred Schendel (k, g)
Steve Babb (k, b)
Aaron Raulston (d)

Tracklist:

01. The Dreaming City 7:14
02. Cold Star 7:29
03. Terminus 4:17
04. The Lurker Beneath 1:44
05. Pagarna 3:33
06. At The Threshold Of Dreams 4:11
07. This Lonely World 4:52
08. October Ballad 4:11
09. The Tower 2:40
10. A Desperate Man 4:15
11. The Key 6:10
12. Watchman On The Walls 11:29




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

Glass Hammer - Skallagrim - Into The Breach (2021)













Year : 2021
Style : Symphonic Progressive Rock , Female vocals
Country : United States
Audio : 320 kbps + scans + digital booklet
Size : 164 mb

Bio:

Glass Hammer is an American progressive rock band from Chattanooga, Tennessee. They formed in 1992 when multi-instrumentalists Steve Babb and Fred Schendel began to write and record “Journey of the Dunadan”, a concept album based on the story of Aragorn from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. To their surprise, the album sold several thousand units via the Internet, The QVC Shop-At-Home Network, and their own toll-free order number. As such, Babb and Schendel were convinced that the band was a project worth continuing. The stage was then set for a successful career that now includes numerous albums, DVDs and an enthusiastic, world-wide fan base that continues to grow at a steady rate.While many musicians have appeared on Glass Hammer albums over the years, Babb and Schendel have remained the core creative force of the band. Both play a variety of instruments, but Babb is better known as the bassist while Schendel is the primary keyboardist. And though they also sing, a number of other vocalists (most notably Michelle Young, Walter Moore, Susie Bogdanowicz, Carl Groves and Jon Davison) have also handled lead vocal duties.Lyrically, Glass Hammer is inspired mostly by their love of literature (most notably Tolkien, C. S. Lewis and John Krakauer) and Babb’s love of Victorian prose and medieval mythology. Musically, they lean towards 70′s driven symphonic rock, focusing on epic-length songs anchored by Babb’s distinctive bass guitar work and strong keyboard playing from Schendel; specifically Hammond organs in the tradition of ELP. They have a superb melodic flow to the music they make, encapsulating real power and dynamics without ever becoming overpowering. Their most apparent influences are Yes, ELP, Genesis, and, to a less noticeable extent, Camel. Fans and critics are usually quick to attest that Glass Hammer have managed to combine those influences into a unique style all their own.Critically acclaimed albums have continued to flow from the Glass Hammer studio, with the most successful and noteworthy being “Chronomtree” (2000), “Lex Rex” (2002), “The Inconsolable Secret” (2005) and “IF” (2010). Vocalists and fan-favorites Carl Groves and Susie Bogdanowicz took a temporary hiatus from the band after 2009 and vocalist Jon Davison took over as lead vocalist for three studio albums; “IF”, “Cor Cordium” and “Perilous”. Kamran Alan Shikoh joined the band at the same time taking on the role of guitarist.Both Shikoh and Davison remain in the group currently, though Davison has also assumed the role as front-man for Yes. This led to Carl Groves rejoining the Glass Hammer in 2013 for live performances and recording. Aaron Raulston joined at the same time as drummer for the group. Susie Bogdanowicz rejoined in late 2013 and is slated to appear along with Raulston, Groves and Shikoh in 2014 concerts.Glass Hammer’s “Ode To Echo” release for 2014 features performances by many of the band’s vocalists, including Bogdanowicz, Young, Moore and Davison, though Carl Groves is handling the lion’s share of the vocal duties for the band. The current official lineup for Glass Hammer is Babb, Schendel, Groves, Shikoh, Raulston, Bogdaniwcz and Davison.Other prog musicians and rock artists have made contributions to Glass Hammer projects, including Jon Anderson of Yes, Arjen Lucassen, Rich Williams and David Ragsdale of Kansas, Rob Reed of Magenta and Randy Jackson of Zebra. Glass Hammer has also appeared with The Adonia String Trio and performed two concerts (2006-2007) with 120 plus member choirs from Belmont University and Lee University.

Album:

Glass Hammer returns to the world of the Dreaming City with the follow-up album "Skallagrim - Into The Breach”, continuing the tale of the thief with the screaming sword, a 'desperate man' who lost his lover and his memory. New lead vocalist Hannah Pryor joins with Steve Babb, Fred Schendel, Aaron Raulston and GH session guitarists, Reese Boyd and Brian Brewer in a 75-minute long onslaught of heavy prog!

Line Up:

Hannah Pryor (lv)
Steve Babb (b, k, bv)
Fred Schendel (k, g, bv)
Aaron Raulston (d)
+
Reese Boyd (g)
Brian Brewer (g)

Tracklist:

01. He's Got a Girl
02. Anthem to Andorath
03. Sellsword
04. Steel
05. A Spell Upon His Mind
06. Moon Pool
07. The Dark
08. The Ogre of Archon




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

Glass Hammer - At The Gate (2022)













Year : 2022
Style : Symphonic Progressive Rock , Female vocals
Country : United States
Audio : 320 kbps + scans
Size : 143 mb

Bio:

Glass Hammer is an American progressive rock band from Chattanooga, Tennessee. They formed in 1992 when multi-instrumentalists Steve Babb and Fred Schendel began to write and record “Journey of the Dunadan”, a concept album based on the story of Aragorn from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. To their surprise, the album sold several thousand units via the Internet, The QVC Shop-At-Home Network, and their own toll-free order number. As such, Babb and Schendel were convinced that the band was a project worth continuing. The stage was then set for a successful career that now includes numerous albums, DVDs and an enthusiastic, world-wide fan base that continues to grow at a steady rate.While many musicians have appeared on Glass Hammer albums over the years, Babb and Schendel have remained the core creative force of the band. Both play a variety of instruments, but Babb is better known as the bassist while Schendel is the primary keyboardist. And though they also sing, a number of other vocalists (most notably Michelle Young, Walter Moore, Susie Bogdanowicz, Carl Groves and Jon Davison) have also handled lead vocal duties.Lyrically, Glass Hammer is inspired mostly by their love of literature (most notably Tolkien, C. S. Lewis and John Krakauer) and Babb’s love of Victorian prose and medieval mythology. Musically, they lean towards 70′s driven symphonic rock, focusing on epic-length songs anchored by Babb’s distinctive bass guitar work and strong keyboard playing from Schendel; specifically Hammond organs in the tradition of ELP. They have a superb melodic flow to the music they make, encapsulating real power and dynamics without ever becoming overpowering. Their most apparent influences are Yes, ELP, Genesis, and, to a less noticeable extent, Camel. Fans and critics are usually quick to attest that Glass Hammer have managed to combine those influences into a unique style all their own.Critically acclaimed albums have continued to flow from the Glass Hammer studio, with the most successful and noteworthy being “Chronomtree” (2000), “Lex Rex” (2002), “The Inconsolable Secret” (2005) and “IF” (2010). Vocalists and fan-favorites Carl Groves and Susie Bogdanowicz took a temporary hiatus from the band after 2009 and vocalist Jon Davison took over as lead vocalist for three studio albums; “IF”, “Cor Cordium” and “Perilous”. Kamran Alan Shikoh joined the band at the same time taking on the role of guitarist.Both Shikoh and Davison remain in the group currently, though Davison has also assumed the role as front-man for Yes. This led to Carl Groves rejoining the Glass Hammer in 2013 for live performances and recording. Aaron Raulston joined at the same time as drummer for the group. Susie Bogdanowicz rejoined in late 2013 and is slated to appear along with Raulston, Groves and Shikoh in 2014 concerts.Glass Hammer’s “Ode To Echo” release for 2014 features performances by many of the band’s vocalists, including Bogdanowicz, Young, Moore and Davison, though Carl Groves is handling the lion’s share of the vocal duties for the band. The current official lineup for Glass Hammer is Babb, Schendel, Groves, Shikoh, Raulston, Bogdaniwcz and Davison.Other prog musicians and rock artists have made contributions to Glass Hammer projects, including Jon Anderson of Yes, Arjen Lucassen, Rich Williams and David Ragsdale of Kansas, Rob Reed of Magenta and Randy Jackson of Zebra. Glass Hammer has also appeared with The Adonia String Trio and performed two concerts (2006-2007) with 120 plus member choirs from Belmont University and Lee University.

Album:

"At The Gate", the third album of the Skallagrim trilogy, is set for release on October 7. The new album follows "Dreaming City" (2020) and "Skallagrim - Into The Breach" (2021), bringing the story of the ‘thief with the screaming sword’ to its conclusion. Vocalist Hannah Pyror is back to front the group and is joined by band leader Steve Babb, keyboardist Fred Schendel and drummer Aaron Raulston. In addition, vocalists Jon Davison (Yes) and John Beagley (Life In Digital) will contribute as well as guitarist Reese Boyd. Babb says to expect another 70s metal-influenced project, but also promises a return to the symphonic prog sound the band is best known for.“An album can be both things”, he claims. “Since the inception of the trilogy in 2020, it’s been my intention to tell this sword and sorcery-inspired tale with appropriate music. And to do that, I needed the sound to evolve toward something grand by the end of the third album. Skallagrim’s story is one of lost joy, of grief and longing, and ultimately of a worn-down swordsman’s coming to grips with what the world can and cannot offer him. It’s probably the most important story we’ve ever told through music, so important to me that it led me to retell it in novels.” Babb’s book, “Skallagrim - In The Vales Of Pagarna,” was released in March of this year. Babb adds: “So, for those who love our newer, edgier sound, they won’t be disappointed. But I’ve brought back the pipe organ, the choirs and the sweeping ballads for those who miss the sounds of our earlier albums. I think it works, but the fans will be the ones to decide!”

Line Up:

Hannah Pryor / vocals
Steve Babb / keyboards, bass
Fred Schendel / keyboards, guitars
Aaron Raulston / drums

+ guests:

Jon Davison / vocals
John Beagley / vocals
Reece Boyd / guitar

Tracklist:

01. The Years Roll By
02. Savage
03. North of North
04. All Alone
05. All for Love
06. Snowblind Girl
07. Standing at the Gate (of Zagzagel)
08. In the Shadows
09. It's Love




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

Glass Hammer - Arise (2023)













Year : 2023
Style : Symphonic Progressive Rock , Female vocals
Country : United States
Audio : 320 kbps + scans
Size : 139 mb

Bio:

Glass Hammer is an American progressive rock band from Chattanooga, Tennessee. They formed in 1992 when multi-instrumentalists Steve Babb and Fred Schendel began to write and record “Journey of the Dunadan”, a concept album based on the story of Aragorn from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. To their surprise, the album sold several thousand units via the Internet, The QVC Shop-At-Home Network, and their own toll-free order number. As such, Babb and Schendel were convinced that the band was a project worth continuing. The stage was then set for a successful career that now includes numerous albums, DVDs and an enthusiastic, world-wide fan base that continues to grow at a steady rate.While many musicians have appeared on Glass Hammer albums over the years, Babb and Schendel have remained the core creative force of the band. Both play a variety of instruments, but Babb is better known as the bassist while Schendel is the primary keyboardist. And though they also sing, a number of other vocalists (most notably Michelle Young, Walter Moore, Susie Bogdanowicz, Carl Groves and Jon Davison) have also handled lead vocal duties.Lyrically, Glass Hammer is inspired mostly by their love of literature (most notably Tolkien, C. S. Lewis and John Krakauer) and Babb’s love of Victorian prose and medieval mythology. Musically, they lean towards 70′s driven symphonic rock, focusing on epic-length songs anchored by Babb’s distinctive bass guitar work and strong keyboard playing from Schendel; specifically Hammond organs in the tradition of ELP. They have a superb melodic flow to the music they make, encapsulating real power and dynamics without ever becoming overpowering. Their most apparent influences are Yes, ELP, Genesis, and, to a less noticeable extent, Camel. Fans and critics are usually quick to attest that Glass Hammer have managed to combine those influences into a unique style all their own.Critically acclaimed albums have continued to flow from the Glass Hammer studio, with the most successful and noteworthy being “Chronomtree” (2000), “Lex Rex” (2002), “The Inconsolable Secret” (2005) and “IF” (2010). Vocalists and fan-favorites Carl Groves and Susie Bogdanowicz took a temporary hiatus from the band after 2009 and vocalist Jon Davison took over as lead vocalist for three studio albums; “IF”, “Cor Cordium” and “Perilous”. Kamran Alan Shikoh joined the band at the same time taking on the role of guitarist.Both Shikoh and Davison remain in the group currently, though Davison has also assumed the role as front-man for Yes. This led to Carl Groves rejoining the Glass Hammer in 2013 for live performances and recording. Aaron Raulston joined at the same time as drummer for the group. Susie Bogdanowicz rejoined in late 2013 and is slated to appear along with Raulston, Groves and Shikoh in 2014 concerts.Glass Hammer’s “Ode To Echo” release for 2014 features performances by many of the band’s vocalists, including Bogdanowicz, Young, Moore and Davison, though Carl Groves is handling the lion’s share of the vocal duties for the band. The current official lineup for Glass Hammer is Babb, Schendel, Groves, Shikoh, Raulston, Bogdaniwcz and Davison.Other prog musicians and rock artists have made contributions to Glass Hammer projects, including Jon Anderson of Yes, Arjen Lucassen, Rich Williams and David Ragsdale of Kansas, Rob Reed of Magenta and Randy Jackson of Zebra. Glass Hammer has also appeared with The Adonia String Trio and performed two concerts (2006-2007) with 120 plus member choirs from Belmont University and Lee University.

Album:

Glass Hammer shoots for the stars with a new concept album, "Arise". Set against the backdrop of deep space exploration, "Arise" follows the extraordinary journey of an android dispatched by overzealous scientists to uncover the galaxy's hidden wonders. The album's lyrics, liner notes and artwork convey a tale of cosmic dread and wonder that doesn't begin with a big bang, but - according to Glass Hammer mastermind Steve Babb - definitely ends with one. He's joined by singer Hannah Pryor and guitarist Reese Boyd for Glass Hammer's twenty-first studio album. "Arise is my progressive rock spin on space rock", says Babb. "I'm still flirting with doom metal on a couple of songs, as we did on the last two albums, but there's also psych rock and even 80s influence going on in the music. Even so, it's very much a prog rock album, just one that touches on other styles." Babb goes on to make a bold claim. "We've always been big on finales", he says. "But the final track on Arise is like nothing we've done before. It's an epic-length instrumental prog rock jam meant to leave our fans' jaws on the floor!"

Line Up:

Hannah Pryor / vocals
Steve Babb / keyboards, bass
Fred Schendel / keyboards, guitars
Randall Williams / drums

+ guests:

Reece Boyd / guitar

Tracklist:

01. Launch Of The Daedalus
02. Wolf359
03. Arion (18 Delphini b)
04. Maresirenum
05. Lost
06. Rift At Wasp 12
07. Proximacentaurib
08. Arise
09. The Return Of Daedalus




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

Glass Hammer - Rogue (Digipak Edition) (2025)













Year : 2025 (Digipak Edition)
Style : Symphonic Progressive Rock , Female vocals
Country : United States
Audio : 320 kbps + all scans
Size : 149 mb

Bio:

Glass Hammer is an American progressive rock band from Chattanooga, Tennessee. They formed in 1992 when multi-instrumentalists Steve Babb and Fred Schendel began to write and record “Journey of the Dunadan”, a concept album based on the story of Aragorn from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. To their surprise, the album sold several thousand units via the Internet, The QVC Shop-At-Home Network, and their own toll-free order number. As such, Babb and Schendel were convinced that the band was a project worth continuing. The stage was then set for a successful career that now includes numerous albums, DVDs and an enthusiastic, world-wide fan base that continues to grow at a steady rate.While many musicians have appeared on Glass Hammer albums over the years, Babb and Schendel have remained the core creative force of the band. Both play a variety of instruments, but Babb is better known as the bassist while Schendel is the primary keyboardist. And though they also sing, a number of other vocalists (most notably Michelle Young, Walter Moore, Susie Bogdanowicz, Carl Groves and Jon Davison) have also handled lead vocal duties.Lyrically, Glass Hammer is inspired mostly by their love of literature (most notably Tolkien, C. S. Lewis and John Krakauer) and Babb’s love of Victorian prose and medieval mythology. Musically, they lean towards 70′s driven symphonic rock, focusing on epic-length songs anchored by Babb’s distinctive bass guitar work and strong keyboard playing from Schendel; specifically Hammond organs in the tradition of ELP. They have a superb melodic flow to the music they make, encapsulating real power and dynamics without ever becoming overpowering. Their most apparent influences are Yes, ELP, Genesis, and, to a less noticeable extent, Camel. Fans and critics are usually quick to attest that Glass Hammer have managed to combine those influences into a unique style all their own.Critically acclaimed albums have continued to flow from the Glass Hammer studio, with the most successful and noteworthy being “Chronomtree” (2000), “Lex Rex” (2002), “The Inconsolable Secret” (2005) and “IF” (2010). Vocalists and fan-favorites Carl Groves and Susie Bogdanowicz took a temporary hiatus from the band after 2009 and vocalist Jon Davison took over as lead vocalist for three studio albums; “IF”, “Cor Cordium” and “Perilous”. Kamran Alan Shikoh joined the band at the same time taking on the role of guitarist.Both Shikoh and Davison remain in the group currently, though Davison has also assumed the role as front-man for Yes. This led to Carl Groves rejoining the Glass Hammer in 2013 for live performances and recording. Aaron Raulston joined at the same time as drummer for the group. Susie Bogdanowicz rejoined in late 2013 and is slated to appear along with Raulston, Groves and Shikoh in 2014 concerts.Glass Hammer’s “Ode To Echo” release for 2014 features performances by many of the band’s vocalists, including Bogdanowicz, Young, Moore and Davison, though Carl Groves is handling the lion’s share of the vocal duties for the band. The current official lineup for Glass Hammer is Babb, Schendel, Groves, Shikoh, Raulston, Bogdaniwcz and Davison.Other prog musicians and rock artists have made contributions to Glass Hammer projects, including Jon Anderson of Yes, Arjen Lucassen, Rich Williams and David Ragsdale of Kansas, Rob Reed of Magenta and Randy Jackson of Zebra. Glass Hammer has also appeared with The Adonia String Trio and performed two concerts (2006-2007) with 120 plus member choirs from Belmont University and Lee University.

Album:

Right from their first release in 1993, Glass Hammer showed a predilection for creating albums that were either based on or inspired by literary works like those from C.S. Lewis or J.R.R Tolkien. Soon they began to create their own stories and build concept albums around them. Classic Glass Hammer albums like Lex Rex, The Inconsolable Secret, and Perilous were all based on original stories.But like Forest Gump might say, Glass Hammer is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’re going to get. Their sound has morphed and changed over the years as the stories they wanted to tell required new ways of doing that. Also, for years the only constant members were multi-instrumentalists Steve Babb and Fred Schendel so new personnel can also mean a new overall sound. In 2020 Babb created a fantasy novel called Skallagrim and a trilogy of albums to go along with it (Dreaming City, Skallagrim: Into the Breach, and At the Gate). In order to represent the sword-wielding hero, the sound of Glass Hammer changed from classic Yes-styled prog to metal. This new style of music persisted on into their 2023 release, Arise.For their latest release, Rogue, by my count their 22nd studio album of new material, Babb has created a story about a man who sets out on a journey spurred on by regret and a desire to find his lost love. To support the story, Babb returned to a “classic Glass Hammer style.” While Fred Schendel appears on two tracks, he seems content to be one of many players in this Babb-produced album. Other players include UK guitarist Oliver Day, Dutch singer Thomas Jakob and American singer Olivia Tharpe.But despite all the changes, Glass Hammer once again delivers. The opener, “What If,” gives a good indication of what we’ll get for the rest of the album. While all the players are excellent, this is not about instrumental virtuosity. Different instruments vie for the melody here and there but never in a “look at me!” sort of way. The opening riff in this song, for example, is traded back and forth until the singer begins, curiously, with the word “farewell!” This song sets the stage for the journey the protagonist is to embark on.In “The Road South” Oliver Day’s lap steel guitar is featured as part of the extended introduction. The guitar does a wonderful job of evoking the sadness of the man leaving his home in the story. In “Tomorrow” the man encounters his first hardship and looks to heaven and the promise that “tomorrow, all will be fine.” A Synth plays a nice counter-melody call and response with singer Thomas Jakob throughout.In “Pretty Ghost” we finally get to hear from Olivia Tharpe as she gives voice to the man’s memories of a woman he left many years ago. Babb nicely captures how good intentions aren’t enough when Tharpe sings, “Someday became today. Then, suddenly became yesterday. There’s nothing left but faded memories.” The song is surprisingly upbeat despite the lyrics containing such regret. The song ends unexpectedly with Tharpe singing “Then she goes, slips away, slips away. Don’t go!”As quickly as “Pretty Ghost” ends, we find ourselves in the song “Sunshine” opening with the words, “don’t let her go.” Once again lap steel, this time played by Fred Schendel, is featured. In the song, it is the memory of his old love that brings light to his mind but that light is tinged with sadness. Babb does a fine job communicating the mixed feelings of this song in both the writing and playing.In “I Will Follow” the man sets his heart and his feet on the path forward. Both Jakob and Tharpe alternate vocals in this up-tempo song. Keys play an important part in propelling this song forward. With the exception of a couple of synth solos, Babb plays all the keyboard parts on this album. As mentioned earlier, this is nothing flashy, but it gets the job done.As the story is drawing to a close, the man reflects on his life in gratitude in “The Wonder of it All”. This leads to the instrumental “One Last Sunrise,” and the mostly instrumental ten-minute “Terminal Lucidity,” one of the album’s highlights. The man has a vision at the end of his life, a vision of someone there to greet him, God. “All Good Things” completes the saga as the man recognizes that he is in a place of eternal rest, a place where “Love reigns forevermore.”Rogue sits nicely alongside other Glass Hammer classics like “On to Evermore,” “Chronometree,” and “If” in both overall sound and the grand scope of the music and the text. It’s remarkable that more than thirty years on, Babb and his colleagues continue to turn out thoughtful, creative albums. Rogue is an album that is deserving of a close listen and time spent with the lyrics and the accompanying story that goes along with it.

Line Up:

Steve Babb / keyboards, bass, vocals
Thomas Jakob / vocals
Olivia Tharpe / vocals
Oliver Day / guitars
Ariel Perchuck / keyboards
Evgeni Obruchkov / drums

+ guests:

Fred Schendel / drums
Reese Boyd / guitars
David Wallimann / guitars

Tracklist:

01. What If
02. The Road South
03. Tomorrow
04. Pretty Ghost
05. Sunshine
06. I Will Follow
07. The Wonder Of It All
08. One Last Sunrise
09. Terminal Lucidity
10. All Good Things




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/