_{Departed released their self-titled EP on 18th June and it’s one that is well worth checking out. The press release that accompanied the e-mail we received immediately grabbed my interest as it revealed that the band included Empire of Fools singer Mark Pascall and former Treatment guitarist Ben Brookland. I’ve played Empire of Fools tracks on Rock Radio NI quite a bit and the Brookland era Treatment (up to late 2013) probably produced their best material. A quick listen to the EP confirmed that it was indeed something special.}

WHEN you sit down to consider what to call your album, it can be a laborious chore; writer's block can cripple all thoughts, a wrenching agony trying to decide what best encapsulates your sound, your vision and the passion you put into the platter you are about to unleash into the public realm.

Then it must only be 'Like A Combine Harvester In A Field Of Crippled Rabbits' if your band is Acid Age'. No other choice really.

Of course it's full throttle thrash metal

HARD working three-piece, The Amorettes, have earned their stripes on the road, with solo shows and support slots with the likes of Danko Jones and Europe to name but a few. Most recently they had a Download slot when they had a chance to air some new tunes.

Those tunes have emerged like a slick snake of fun from their release on Off Yer Rocka of the album 'White Hot Heat'. And, what an album it is!

This is a collection of 10 tunes that put you