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Good morning lovely tooters!
You know what time it is, don't you?
It is #ThrashThursday 🤘
Here's some bay area thrash delivered to your phones and computers:
Death Angel - The Moth
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Good morning tooters. It’s another gorgeous day & will get to 24c today here in Chiltern, but I’ll be heading home again where it’ll be 25c. The heater is on at the moment though as it was 6c when I got up.
I’ve nearly finished my breakfast & will soon have my shower & take these two dogs for their walk. I’ve already stripped my bed & will put the washing on before we leave for the walk. Then just need to hang it out once we’re back. After that it’ll just be a matter of packing up, cleaning up, putting the rubbish in the bin & heading home. I’ve done this so often now it doesn’t take very long. After I’ve put everything in the car I do one final check that I haven’t forgotten anything & the house is clean & tidy & I’m done . It’s always nice to know I’m going home.
I’m actually a little groggy this morning, I didn’t sleep particularly well so going for a walk will clear those cobwebs out.
Have a great #Sunday everyone, enjoy your day 🌻. #Weather #Exercise #HouseSit #Petsit. -
Good morning tooters. Cool start down here in Chiltern & it’s just 4c - brrr 🥶. Still, the day is going to be a beautiful sunny 23c. Dawn services were held at the local war memorial here, just a 5 minute walk away. I didn’t go even though I’d have known some of the attendees. I tend to get a bit weepy at these things as I’ve got older for many reasons. I also know that afterwards nearly everyone walks across the road to the local pub for bacon & egg rolls. Some will still be there by lunch time.
I’m just finishing my breakfast & hopefully will be out for a walk with the dogs in less than an hour. I’m planning to skirt the township as much as possible which the dogs will like as it’ll give them a longer walk than usual.
Apart from that it’ll just be a quiet day although I am hoping to catch up with another friend here if possible.
Have a lovely #Saturday everyone, hope it’s a stress free day for you all 🌻. #Weather #HouseSit #PetSit #Exercise. -
Good morning tooters. Just 7c this morning & yes I did put the heater on, started it at 23, dropped it to 22 an hour later & then down to 21 & it’s now off 😂. My body is warm but my feet are cold & half an hour ago I was too hot, sweaty & kicking off my slippers 🤷🏼♀️ - weird old woman 😬. It’s going to be a lovely warm 23c today & the sky is a bright nearly cloudless blue.
My calm continues today as I take my time to finish my packing to go to my sit. I don’t need to be there until 12.30pm but I am picking up my granddaughters in Barnawartha at around 11-11.30am to take them to lunch in Chiltern, then we will go to my sit, drop my stuff off, pick up the dogs & they can help me take them for a walk & Miss 8 will also want to see the cat if he’s not hiding & the chickens.
Time to shower & get the rest of my stuff organised - at a calm & steady pace 😁.
Have a fabulous #Thursday everyone, stay safe out there 🌻. #Weather #HouseSit #PetSit. -
Good morning tooters. It was 19c when I got up this morning & it’s heading to a hot 35c today. Feeling pretty ordinary this morning after an unsettled sleep.
My back is causing me some grief again & I woke in the wee small hours with a sore stomach as well 🤷🏼♀️. I haven’t done too much but I am feeling quite uncomfortable - this too shall pass & hopefully sooner rather than later. I have no idea what’s going on with my body lately but I don’t like it. Safe to say I want to go home & be in my own place again - today is the last day here though, back to my own bed tomorrow.
Still I’ve decided not to go swimming this morning but will pack up everything I won’t need for the next 24hrs & take it all up home & water my garden as despite being still very damp the trees & veg garden will need it. If I feel up to it I’ll do some cleaning here rather than in one big job tomorrow.
Not much else on for the day, just taking my time to do what I need to.
Hope everyone has a great #Wednesday, take care out there 🌻. #Weather #Housesit #PetSit #Home -
Good morning tooters. I can barely believe it but I slept over 8 & 1/2 hrs last night. I can’t remember the last time I slept that long & when I sleep longer than normal I say I must have needed it - & I must have really needed it last night! It was about 23c when I woke up to grey overcast skies & today is supposed to be a rainy 29c & looking at the BOM that rain isn’t far away.
I prepared a chia & oat porridge last night for today’s breakfast & I’m glad I did as I didn’t have to think about it, just heat it & while I didn’t have a banana, my usual favourite to add I did have blackberries & a few grapes - it was ok - banana is better.
I let the cat out when I got up, he was a long time out there before he asked to come in for breakfast & I thought he was obviously doing his ablutions. I cleaned his litter trays while he was out there & when I let him in - he didn’t ask for breakfast, he used the litter box & asked to go outside again 🤷🏼♀️ - cat humour again!
Only plan for today is to visit my sister & give her the books I picked from a couple of street libraries & have a catch up chat on our week for a couple of hours. All depending on how I’m feeling, I may do a yoga class later today.
Have a wonderful #Sunday people, hope it’s a calm day for you all 🌻. #Weather #HouseSit #PetSit #Family. -
Good morning tooters. It was 20c when I got up today, double what it was yesterday morning & today we’re supposed to get to 29c with rain to come, but as I well know that doesn’t always happen. Up, dressed & out of the door with the dogs by 6am again & it is a lovely morning today.
Home again & it involves getting breakfast for the dogs, then the cat & finally the chooks - then I can make my own, wholemeal crumpets with butter & Vegemite- yummy & which I’m now finishing along with a coffee.
I came across an apple tree while walking that was laden with red apple’s & leaning over the fence, so I picked one - I want one of these apple trees, delicious & a gorgeous pink inside. The garden it was in also had persimmons, quinces & an almond. There was probably more but I definitely focused on the apple.
I’m off for a shower & will then take another walk to catch up with my friend who lives not far away.
Wishing you all a wonderful #Sunday, have a happy day 🌻. #Weather #AussieSummer #Exercise #HouseSit #PetSit #Apple #Kangaroos -
Good morning tooters. Quite a warm night here in Chiltern, but a very cool start to my day. I was awake early, not that I wanted to be but my body couldn’t agree with my brain. I managed to stay in bed until there was some light appearing in the sky just before 6am, then up & dressed, leads on the dogs & out of the door for a walk & it was a very cool 10c here. The sky may have been getting light, but the sun was nowhere near up. Even the rabbits weren’t out, did notice some plovers in the gloom of the park.
It was a lovely walk though & by the time I got near to Anderson park lake, which is nearly empty of water, I started to see rabbits & after going through the reserve there was a mob of kangaroos next to the local footy ground. By the time I was around 10mins from home the sun was finally starting to appear.
It’s going to get to a very hot 37c today & I have to go into town this afternoon for dinner out with the family. I was thinking of heading home to water the garden, but I think everything will be ok as I well watered yesterday morning & apparently rain is forecast tomorrow 🤞🏼🤞🏼🤞🏼.
Anyway I hope you all have a lovely restful #Saturday. Have a good one people & stay cool out there 🌻. #Weather #AussieSummer #Dawn #HouseSit #PetSit #Kangaroo -
Good morning tooters. It was already 20c when I got up early this morning & it’s a little overcast but no rain forecast. Supposed to get to 33c today & I’m planning a quiet one. Had a dream filled disturbed sleep & woke up more than a few times. So I’m a little headachy this morning & already feel hot. A cool shower will be lovely & then I’ll take the dogs for a bit of a walk down the road & to the creek but that’s about it.
Just two more nights & I go home & I’m ready to get back to home life & doing my things going swimming etc. I hope to catch up with my other regular house sit family here in Chiltern tomorrow just to reconnect as while it’s not in my diary I remember them asking if I was free in Jan for a few days.
Hope you all have a fantastic #Wednesday & it’s not too hot where you are, stay cool out there 🌻. #Weather #LazyDay #HouseSit #PetSit. -
Good morning tooters, another nice mild night of just 12c & today it will be hit 34c. So I’ll be off for my shower shortly & then taking the dogs for their walk & picking those plums.
Heading into Wodonga this evening for my grandson’s 21st birthday dinner,
hopefully not a late night.
Have a fabulous #Monday & stay cool 🌻. #Weather #HouseSit #PetSit
A gentle offering from me to start your day - Small World in Motion. -
Good morning tooters. It was a pretty fresh start to my day. Just 8c when I got up at 6am & although I’d been awake since 5am, I did manage to stay in bed, but only because it was it was still pretty dark & chilly. It’s heading to a lovely 26c today, but at the moment it’s quite damp & dewy outside.
I’ve already thrown balls & toys to give the dogs a bit of a run in the paddocks, although little Ebby doesn’t run much nowadays. I won’t bother with a walk for them, George is very happy just chasing things I throw with Ebby watching next to me.
I have 2 grandchildren having their birthdays between Christmas & New Year. My eldest is turning 21, my youngest is turning 4, both of them boys. I’m planning to drive down to Rutherglen later this morning, there’s a cafe there that sells unusual items. I think I may be able to get something for the turning 21yr old to put in his new unit 🤞🏼.
I have received my electricity bill & I only mention it because looking at it & even though it has the final $75 government discount, it is the smallest bill I’ve received in a few years! So they are going down & I’ve thought so for a while now. Even if the discount wasn’t there it would have been less than $300 for 3mths.
Enjoy your Christmas Eve #Wednesday, hope it’s a fabulous day for you all 🌻. #Weather #HouseSit #PetSit #Christmas #Family #Birthdays -
Good morning tooters. It’s a grey old day & 17c when I got up after a very restless sleep 🤷🏼♀️. We’re heading to 30c today & it could well be a bit humid as we’ve had a good bit of light rain, soaking everything nicely. No lawn mowing for me. There was a big storm that looked as though it would deliver us good rain yesterday, but no it missed us completely.
I went out to Chiltern yesterday afternoon to catch up with the friend I’m house sitting for over Christmas & New Year & see the dogs & this is what greeted me as I drew up to the gate. Decorations are everywhere, inside & out. I haven’t even put the wreath on my door yet 😬. My friend goes all out, lights everywhere, thankfully timed. I don’t go down until the 23rd but it’s good to reconnect if I can & find out what has changed if anything with the animals. The dogs have their own Christmas stocking each as well with a new toy in them for me to give them on Christmas day. It’s going to be interesting 😄.
Hope you all have a happy #Sunday, enjoy your day🌻. #Weather #HouseSit #PetSit #Christmas -
Good evening tooters. I’m glad I was out & about today, I didn’t have to think about the uselessness of the #Coalition. I did make a return visit to the Shepparton Botanical Gardens & it didn’t disappoint. The first picture is in the childrens garden & cleverly the structure is made from old bed frames. The second is on the raised reclaimed area & looks across the lake to side of which is the children’s garden. The third is one the lakes, there are two of them. The third is like large woven baskets with native grasses in them. You are able to walk around both lakes, which I did, in fact I spent over an hour walking the whole area & I loved it. It’s so different to the usual botanical gardens, it’s all native. #Shepparton #BotanicalGardens #Exercise
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Good morning Tooters! Seems i forgot to post half my toots yesterday! Guess i'll try make up for it today! Toot Toot! #6amclub #cryptomyface
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Gabbard reverses course on key intel-gathering tool as nomination teeters
News: Former Rep. #Tulsi #Gabbard (Hawaii), who is Donald Trump’s nominee for director of national intelligence,
is changing her tune on a key intelligence-gathering authority she once sought to repeal as her Senate confirmation hangs in the balance.
Gabbard’s past criticisms of #Section702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act have emerged as a central issue in her confirmation process,
leaving GOP senators — including some in leadership — increasingly skeptical about the former Democrat’s confirmation prospects.Section 702 of FISA authorizes the targeted collection of foreign intelligence information from non-U.S. persons located abroad.
In her first public comments since being nominated, Gabbard told us that she now supports Section 702,
-- saying the program is “crucial” and “must be safeguarded to protect our nation while ensuring the civil liberties of Americans.”
“If confirmed as DNI, I will uphold Americans’ Fourth Amendment rights while maintaining vital national security tools like Section 702 to ensure the safety and freedom of the American people,” Gabbard said.In private meetings, senators are questioning Gabbard about legislation she introduced in 2020 that would repeal Section 702.
However, Gabbard now appears to be walking that back, citing Fourth Amendment protections implemented since then to prevent the incidental collection of Americans’ data
If confirmed as DNI, Gabbard would need to certify the statute annually in order for intelligence collection to continue under the 702 program.
Next steps:
Gabbard’s public statement is likely to reassure Republicans who are on the fence about her nomination.
But there are a handful of other issues that have come up during her meetings with senators,
including her views on #Ukraine,
as well as #secret #visits to Syria and Lebanon while serving in Congress.There’s also the fact that Gabbard’s foreign policy views are anathema to defense hawks.
Gabbard isn’t expected to get any Democratic votes,
so she can’t afford to lose more than a few Republicans.Senate GOP leaders were hoping to schedule Gabbard’s confirmation hearing for next week,
but paperwork-related delays have caused that to slip,
likely into the following week.The Intelligence Committee is instead starting with former Rep. John Ratcliffe’s nomination to serve as CIA director.
https://punchbowl.news/article/senate/gabbard-changes-stance-on-section-702/
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Good morning tooters. A warmish night of 8c & it’s going to get to 25c today & so far no sun, there’s a lot of cloud around but I think it’ll clear.
I slept really well last night but am feeling kind of foggy in my head, I don’t know if it has anything to do with the flu jab yesterday 🤷🏼♀️. I’m sure it’ll pass as the morning progresses. I intend to stay home today & do some work in the garden out the back but first I’m going to do a yoga class & I think I’ll try one I haven’t done before. That’ll focus this foggy brain - hopefully.
Have a wonderful #Wednesday everyone, hope it’s a great day for you all, stay safe out there 🌻. #Weather #Exercise #Garden #BrainFog -
@pork_soda
Um… the Taiwanese part, perhaps?I mean, not to be outdone by its rival Domino's, #PizzaHut #Taiwan has also been pushing limited-time offers on such ridiculous #pizza #toppings as:
• #Ramen pizza 🍜 (carbs on carbs)
• #BubbleTea pizza 🧋 (SWEET carbs on carbs)
• #BuddhaJumpsOverTheWall pizza 🍲 (a sinful creation)
• #Halloween pizza 🕸️ (mommy I'm scared!) -
@pork_soda
Um… the Taiwanese part, perhaps?I mean, not to be outdone by its rival Domino's, #PizzaHut #Taiwan has also been pushing limited-time offers on such ridiculous #pizza #toppings as:
• #Ramen pizza 🍜 (carbs on carbs)
• #BubbleTea pizza 🧋 (SWEET carbs on carbs)
• #BuddhaJumpsOverTheWall pizza 🍲 (a sinful creation)
• #Halloween pizza 🕸️ (mommy I'm scared!) -
@pork_soda
Um… the Taiwanese part, perhaps?I mean, not to be outdone by its rival Domino's, #PizzaHut #Taiwan has also been pushing limited-time offers on such ridiculous #pizza #toppings as:
• #Ramen pizza 🍜 (carbs on carbs)
• #BubbleTea pizza 🧋 (SWEET carbs on carbs)
• #BuddhaJumpsOverTheWall pizza 🍲 (a sinful creation)
• #Halloween pizza 🕸️ (mommy I'm scared!) -
AMG’s Unsigned Band Rodeö: Empyrean Sanctum – Detachment from Reality
By Dolphin Whisperer
“AMG’s Unsigned Band Rodeö” is a time-honored tradition to showcase the most underground of the underground—the unsigned and unpromoted. This collective review treatment continues to exist to unite our writers in boot or bolster of the bands who remind us that, for better or worse, the metal underground exists as an important part of the global metal scene. The Rodeö rides on.”
More so than any other one thing, passion drives the underground. And within this world of passion, like-minded individuals find their partners in expression—or at least helping hands. Often, this can lead to us as hungry consumers to find out new acts via association. In fact, I stumbled upon the Chicago-helmed Empyrean Sanctum via research into associated acts of Katagory V vocalist Albert Rybka. And my intrigue grew further in reading that captain of the riffs Justin Kellerman had contracted the extraordinary rhythm duo of Hannes Grossman (just read his credits) and Alex Weber (Exist, WAIT, and more) for this sophomore Detachment from Reality. With a keen sense for guitar crunch, and a strong individual spirit as a guide, could Empyrean Sanctum’s progressive power charms win over our staunchy Rodeö crew? Follow passion down the sci-fi dystopia rabbit hole… – Dolphin Whisperer
Empyrean Sanctum // Detachment from Reality [April 18th, 2025]
El Cuervo: It may not be my first pick — as it might have been 15 years ago — but I always have time for progressive power metal. It’s a sub-genre that oozes immediacy, from crunchy guitars to energetic singers to vibrant synths. Empyrean Sanctum tick these boxes and further dare to border real brutality to gild their heaviest moments across Detachment from Reality. “Lifeless Death” is the easy highlight, boasting uplifting synths and the heroic guitar solos that these guys evidently enjoy playing. However, I find the songs — and as a consequence the album overall — to be interminable. It’s the type of release where I check how many tracks have passed, but it’s only been four minutes and I’m still on the same one. The bookends (“Heart of Gold” and “Elation”) are the longest, which makes starting and restarting the album more arduous than it should be. And the production is also a thick shield to my listening pleasure. The master is obnoxiously loud, and the instrumental tones have a ‘clacky’, inorganic sound that’s anathema to my ears. There’s solid music buried here, but it’s just too difficult to access. 2.0/5.0
Dolphin Whisperer: In a genre so overtaken by re-amped chug-a-lug polyrhythms, it’s refreshing to hear Empyrean Sanctum’s adherence to the melodic backbone of ’00s progressive power metal.1 You know the kind—wailing, synth-backed, bright riffage championed by titans like Threshold or Anubis Gate and glued together with knotty Petrucci (Dream Theater) energy. At least that’s where I feel main mind, Justin Kellerman lives in composition. And in this lane, Detachment from Reality swaggers through riff after riff in an elegant manner, both wearing its length on tracks that ring slower to bubble and burst (“Transparency,” “Lifeless Death”) and sauntering through groovy growth and reprisal with ease (“Heart of Gold,” “Age of Innocence,” “Refinement”). But even when its over-chorused character—Albert Rybka (Katagory V) often finding a classic nasal croon and tasteful falsetto crescendo—hits a touch long in the tooth, Kellerman’s ear for a fitting riff transition alongside Hannes Grossman’s urge to progress and explode his thundering skins keeps the lull at bay. Many of these touches are subtle though, as Kellerman does not guide Empyrean Sanctum via guitar flamboyance and solo trade-offs—guest soloist Per Nilsson (Scar Symmetry, Kaipa) provides just about the only mark in that lane throughout (“Age of Innocence”). This straightforward and tuneful nature, however, plays enough as a successful choice rather than an unintentional miss on the noodle front. And if Kellerman and Empyrean Sanctum ever look to swing for the fences again with a heavier hand in wanksville, his slick compositions may land with an extra imprint and oomph. 3.0/5.0
Mystikus Hugebeard: As it stands, Detachment from Reality is a cool album. The problem is that it’s on the cusp of being an absolutely fuckin’ radical album, and falls just short. To their credit, Empyrean Sanctum nails the rhythm section. Dynamic bass-playing and inventive drum lines augment the guitars, which strike and strike in a percussive heartbeat. “Descent” is a particularly gripping track, a straightforward melody and powerful chorus over a ceaseless chug and strum. The production also lends a beefy heft to the guitars, empowering the riffs in a way that reminds me of the best parts of Hemina without the debilitating stench of cheese. The sticking point is how Detachment from Reality always teeters on the edge of inventive, daring song-craft, but never seems to commit. Apart from some slick guitar work in “Heart of Gold” and the delicious Per Nilsson guest solo in the title track, the lead guitars are rarely allowed the space to do anything befitting the virtuosity of the rest of the music. The songwriting feels more satisfied to shuffle from one riff to the next without erupting into something truly dynamic and challenging, resulting in a dearth of moments that stand out in my memory. It’s like the soundfont of a progressive song structure applied to something less audacious, which really drags the repetition of “Lifeless Death” and “Elation” into an unflattering light. Ultimately, it’s less a fundamental flaw as much as it is untapped potential. Complain though I might, Detachment from Reality deserves your listen. 3.0/5.0
Clark Kent: Empyrean Sanctum’s Detachment from Reality is everything that I love about metal. The album has meticulously crafted long-form songs that seamlessly weave from movement to movement so they never overstay their welcome. Empyrean Sanctum borrows their sound from latter-day Blind Guardian and Symphony X, but without the bombast. There’s a restraint and maturity to the songwriting that makes it feel comforting. In fact, even Mrs. Kent, who usually despises my music, gives her stamp of approval. Detachment from Reality features symphonic progressive metal with orchestration and synths used as an accent rather than the main feature. You get the feeling of joy and composure from all the players: when Albert Rybka’s gruff cleans belt out the chorus of “Age of Innocence,” or Justin Kellerman moves from rhythm to fancy fretwork, or Hannes Grossman provides mid-tempo drumming that serves as a steady beacon throughout the album. I found plenty to enjoy on each song: excellent solos, moody synths, emotive singing, and surprises like the piano on “Lifeless Death” and the heart-pumping riffs on “Refinement.” One might scoff at the length, but it’s so easy to get lost in the mesmerizing melodies that the hour just flies by. With the album’s spacey synths, intergalactic riffs, and out-of-this-world vocals, this makes me feel right at home. 4.0/5.0
#AmericanMetal #AngryMetalGuySUnsignedBandRodeo #AngryMetalGuySUnsignedBandRodeo2025 #AnubisGate #BlindGuardian #DreamTheater #EmpyreanSanctum #Hemina #IndependentRelease #KatagoryV #May25 #PowerMetal #ProgPower #ProgressiveMetal #Review #Reviews #SelfRelease #SymphonyX #Threshold
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AMG’s Unsigned Band Rodeö: Empyrean Sanctum – Detachment from Reality
By Dolphin Whisperer
“AMG’s Unsigned Band Rodeö” is a time-honored tradition to showcase the most underground of the underground—the unsigned and unpromoted. This collective review treatment continues to exist to unite our writers in boot or bolster of the bands who remind us that, for better or worse, the metal underground exists as an important part of the global metal scene. The Rodeö rides on.”
More so than any other one thing, passion drives the underground. And within this world of passion, like-minded individuals find their partners in expression—or at least helping hands. Often, this can lead to us as hungry consumers to find out new acts via association. In fact, I stumbled upon the Chicago-helmed Empyrean Sanctum via research into associated acts of Katagory V vocalist Albert Rybka. And my intrigue grew further in reading that captain of the riffs Justin Kellerman had contracted the extraordinary rhythm duo of Hannes Grossman (just read his credits) and Alex Weber (Exist, WAIT, and more) for this sophomore Detachment from Reality. With a keen sense for guitar crunch, and a strong individual spirit as a guide, could Empyrean Sanctum’s progressive power charms win over our staunchy Rodeö crew? Follow passion down the sci-fi dystopia rabbit hole… – Dolphin Whisperer
Empyrean Sanctum // Detachment from Reality [April 18th, 2025]
El Cuervo: It may not be my first pick — as it might have been 15 years ago — but I always have time for progressive power metal. It’s a sub-genre that oozes immediacy, from crunchy guitars to energetic singers to vibrant synths. Empyrean Sanctum tick these boxes and further dare to border real brutality to gild their heaviest moments across Detachment from Reality. “Lifeless Death” is the easy highlight, boasting uplifting synths and the heroic guitar solos that these guys evidently enjoy playing. However, I find the songs — and as a consequence the album overall — to be interminable. It’s the type of release where I check how many tracks have passed, but it’s only been four minutes and I’m still on the same one. The bookends (“Heart of Gold” and “Elation”) are the longest, which makes starting and restarting the album more arduous than it should be. And the production is also a thick shield to my listening pleasure. The master is obnoxiously loud, and the instrumental tones have a ‘clacky’, inorganic sound that’s anathema to my ears. There’s solid music buried here, but it’s just too difficult to access. 2.0/5.0
Dolphin Whisperer: In a genre so overtaken by re-amped chug-a-lug polyrhythms, it’s refreshing to hear Empyrean Sanctum’s adherence to the melodic backbone of ’00s progressive power metal.1 You know the kind—wailing, synth-backed, bright riffage championed by titans like Threshold or Anubis Gate and glued together with knotty Petrucci (Dream Theater) energy. At least that’s where I feel main mind, Justin Kellerman lives in composition. And in this lane, Detachment from Reality swaggers through riff after riff in an elegant manner, both wearing its length on tracks that ring slower to bubble and burst (“Transparency,” “Lifeless Death”) and sauntering through groovy growth and reprisal with ease (“Heart of Gold,” “Age of Innocence,” “Refinement”). But even when its over-chorused character—Albert Rybka (Katagory V) often finding a classic nasal croon and tasteful falsetto crescendo—hits a touch long in the tooth, Kellerman’s ear for a fitting riff transition alongside Hannes Grossman’s urge to progress and explode his thundering skins keeps the lull at bay. Many of these touches are subtle though, as Kellerman does not guide Empyrean Sanctum via guitar flamboyance and solo trade-offs—guest soloist Per Nilsson (Scar Symmetry, Kaipa) provides just about the only mark in that lane throughout (“Age of Innocence”). This straightforward and tuneful nature, however, plays enough as a successful choice rather than an unintentional miss on the noodle front. And if Kellerman and Empyrean Sanctum ever look to swing for the fences again with a heavier hand in wanksville, his slick compositions may land with an extra imprint and oomph. 3.0/5.0
Mystikus Hugebeard: As it stands, Detachment from Reality is a cool album. The problem is that it’s on the cusp of being an absolutely fuckin’ radical album, and falls just short. To their credit, Empyrean Sanctum nails the rhythm section. Dynamic bass-playing and inventive drum lines augment the guitars, which strike and strike in a percussive heartbeat. “Descent” is a particularly gripping track, a straightforward melody and powerful chorus over a ceaseless chug and strum. The production also lends a beefy heft to the guitars, empowering the riffs in a way that reminds me of the best parts of Hemina without the debilitating stench of cheese. The sticking point is how Detachment from Reality always teeters on the edge of inventive, daring song-craft, but never seems to commit. Apart from some slick guitar work in “Heart of Gold” and the delicious Per Nilsson guest solo in the title track, the lead guitars are rarely allowed the space to do anything befitting the virtuosity of the rest of the music. The songwriting feels more satisfied to shuffle from one riff to the next without erupting into something truly dynamic and challenging, resulting in a dearth of moments that stand out in my memory. It’s like the soundfont of a progressive song structure applied to something less audacious, which really drags the repetition of “Lifeless Death” and “Elation” into an unflattering light. Ultimately, it’s less a fundamental flaw as much as it is untapped potential. Complain though I might, Detachment from Reality deserves your listen. 3.0/5.0
Clark Kent: Empyrean Sanctum’s Detachment from Reality is everything that I love about metal. The album has meticulously crafted long-form songs that seamlessly weave from movement to movement so they never overstay their welcome. Empyrean Sanctum borrows their sound from latter-day Blind Guardian and Symphony X, but without the bombast. There’s a restraint and maturity to the songwriting that makes it feel comforting. In fact, even Mrs. Kent, who usually despises my music, gives her stamp of approval. Detachment from Reality features symphonic progressive metal with orchestration and synths used as an accent rather than the main feature. You get the feeling of joy and composure from all the players: when Albert Rybka’s gruff cleans belt out the chorus of “Age of Innocence,” or Justin Kellerman moves from rhythm to fancy fretwork, or Hannes Grossman provides mid-tempo drumming that serves as a steady beacon throughout the album. I found plenty to enjoy on each song: excellent solos, moody synths, emotive singing, and surprises like the piano on “Lifeless Death” and the heart-pumping riffs on “Refinement.” One might scoff at the length, but it’s so easy to get lost in the mesmerizing melodies that the hour just flies by. With the album’s spacey synths, intergalactic riffs, and out-of-this-world vocals, this makes me feel right at home. 4.0/5.0
#AmericanMetal #AngryMetalGuySUnsignedBandRodeo #AngryMetalGuySUnsignedBandRodeo2025 #AnubisGate #BlindGuardian #DreamTheater #EmpyreanSanctum #Hemina #IndependentRelease #KatagoryV #May25 #PowerMetal #ProgPower #ProgressiveMetal #Review #Reviews #SelfRelease #SymphonyX #Threshold
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AMG’s Unsigned Band Rodeö: Empyrean Sanctum – Detachment from Reality
By Dolphin Whisperer
“AMG’s Unsigned Band Rodeö” is a time-honored tradition to showcase the most underground of the underground—the unsigned and unpromoted. This collective review treatment continues to exist to unite our writers in boot or bolster of the bands who remind us that, for better or worse, the metal underground exists as an important part of the global metal scene. The Rodeö rides on.”
More so than any other one thing, passion drives the underground. And within this world of passion, like-minded individuals find their partners in expression—or at least helping hands. Often, this can lead to us as hungry consumers to find out new acts via association. In fact, I stumbled upon the Chicago-helmed Empyrean Sanctum via research into associated acts of Katagory V vocalist Albert Rybka. And my intrigue grew further in reading that captain of the riffs Justin Kellerman had contracted the extraordinary rhythm duo of Hannes Grossman (just read his credits) and Alex Weber (Exist, WAIT, and more) for this sophomore Detachment from Reality. With a keen sense for guitar crunch, and a strong individual spirit as a guide, could Empyrean Sanctum’s progressive power charms win over our staunchy Rodeö crew? Follow passion down the sci-fi dystopia rabbit hole… – Dolphin Whisperer
Empyrean Sanctum // Detachment from Reality [April 18th, 2025]
El Cuervo: It may not be my first pick — as it might have been 15 years ago — but I always have time for progressive power metal. It’s a sub-genre that oozes immediacy, from crunchy guitars to energetic singers to vibrant synths. Empyrean Sanctum tick these boxes and further dare to border real brutality to gild their heaviest moments across Detachment from Reality. “Lifeless Death” is the easy highlight, boasting uplifting synths and the heroic guitar solos that these guys evidently enjoy playing. However, I find the songs — and as a consequence the album overall — to be interminable. It’s the type of release where I check how many tracks have passed, but it’s only been four minutes and I’m still on the same one. The bookends (“Heart of Gold” and “Elation”) are the longest, which makes starting and restarting the album more arduous than it should be. And the production is also a thick shield to my listening pleasure. The master is obnoxiously loud, and the instrumental tones have a ‘clacky’, inorganic sound that’s anathema to my ears. There’s solid music buried here, but it’s just too difficult to access. 2.0/5.0
Dolphin Whisperer: In a genre so overtaken by re-amped chug-a-lug polyrhythms, it’s refreshing to hear Empyrean Sanctum’s adherence to the melodic backbone of ’00s progressive power metal.1 You know the kind—wailing, synth-backed, bright riffage championed by titans like Threshold or Anubis Gate and glued together with knotty Petrucci (Dream Theater) energy. At least that’s where I feel main mind, Justin Kellerman lives in composition. And in this lane, Detachment from Reality swaggers through riff after riff in an elegant manner, both wearing its length on tracks that ring slower to bubble and burst (“Transparency,” “Lifeless Death”) and sauntering through groovy growth and reprisal with ease (“Heart of Gold,” “Age of Innocence,” “Refinement”). But even when its over-chorused character—Albert Rybka (Katagory V) often finding a classic nasal croon and tasteful falsetto crescendo—hits a touch long in the tooth, Kellerman’s ear for a fitting riff transition alongside Hannes Grossman’s urge to progress and explode his thundering skins keeps the lull at bay. Many of these touches are subtle though, as Kellerman does not guide Empyrean Sanctum via guitar flamboyance and solo trade-offs—guest soloist Per Nilsson (Scar Symmetry, Kaipa) provides just about the only mark in that lane throughout (“Age of Innocence”). This straightforward and tuneful nature, however, plays enough as a successful choice rather than an unintentional miss on the noodle front. And if Kellerman and Empyrean Sanctum ever look to swing for the fences again with a heavier hand in wanksville, his slick compositions may land with an extra imprint and oomph. 3.0/5.0
Mystikus Hugebeard: As it stands, Detachment from Reality is a cool album. The problem is that it’s on the cusp of being an absolutely fuckin’ radical album, and falls just short. To their credit, Empyrean Sanctum nails the rhythm section. Dynamic bass-playing and inventive drum lines augment the guitars, which strike and strike in a percussive heartbeat. “Descent” is a particularly gripping track, a straightforward melody and powerful chorus over a ceaseless chug and strum. The production also lends a beefy heft to the guitars, empowering the riffs in a way that reminds me of the best parts of Hemina without the debilitating stench of cheese. The sticking point is how Detachment from Reality always teeters on the edge of inventive, daring song-craft, but never seems to commit. Apart from some slick guitar work in “Heart of Gold” and the delicious Per Nilsson guest solo in the title track, the lead guitars are rarely allowed the space to do anything befitting the virtuosity of the rest of the music. The songwriting feels more satisfied to shuffle from one riff to the next without erupting into something truly dynamic and challenging, resulting in a dearth of moments that stand out in my memory. It’s like the soundfont of a progressive song structure applied to something less audacious, which really drags the repetition of “Lifeless Death” and “Elation” into an unflattering light. Ultimately, it’s less a fundamental flaw as much as it is untapped potential. Complain though I might, Detachment from Reality deserves your listen. 3.0/5.0
Clark Kent: Empyrean Sanctum’s Detachment from Reality is everything that I love about metal. The album has meticulously crafted long-form songs that seamlessly weave from movement to movement so they never overstay their welcome. Empyrean Sanctum borrows their sound from latter-day Blind Guardian and Symphony X, but without the bombast. There’s a restraint and maturity to the songwriting that makes it feel comforting. In fact, even Mrs. Kent, who usually despises my music, gives her stamp of approval. Detachment from Reality features symphonic progressive metal with orchestration and synths used as an accent rather than the main feature. You get the feeling of joy and composure from all the players: when Albert Rybka’s gruff cleans belt out the chorus of “Age of Innocence,” or Justin Kellerman moves from rhythm to fancy fretwork, or Hannes Grossman provides mid-tempo drumming that serves as a steady beacon throughout the album. I found plenty to enjoy on each song: excellent solos, moody synths, emotive singing, and surprises like the piano on “Lifeless Death” and the heart-pumping riffs on “Refinement.” One might scoff at the length, but it’s so easy to get lost in the mesmerizing melodies that the hour just flies by. With the album’s spacey synths, intergalactic riffs, and out-of-this-world vocals, this makes me feel right at home. 4.0/5.0
#AmericanMetal #AngryMetalGuySUnsignedBandRodeo #AngryMetalGuySUnsignedBandRodeo2025 #AnubisGate #BlindGuardian #DreamTheater #EmpyreanSanctum #Hemina #IndependentRelease #KatagoryV #May25 #PowerMetal #ProgPower #ProgressiveMetal #Review #Reviews #SelfRelease #SymphonyX #Threshold
-
AMG’s Unsigned Band Rodeö: Empyrean Sanctum – Detachment from Reality
By Dolphin Whisperer
“AMG’s Unsigned Band Rodeö” is a time-honored tradition to showcase the most underground of the underground—the unsigned and unpromoted. This collective review treatment continues to exist to unite our writers in boot or bolster of the bands who remind us that, for better or worse, the metal underground exists as an important part of the global metal scene. The Rodeö rides on.”
More so than any other one thing, passion drives the underground. And within this world of passion, like-minded individuals find their partners in expression—or at least helping hands. Often, this can lead to us as hungry consumers to find out new acts via association. In fact, I stumbled upon the Chicago-helmed Empyrean Sanctum via research into associated acts of Katagory V vocalist Albert Rybka. And my intrigue grew further in reading that captain of the riffs Justin Kellerman had contracted the extraordinary rhythm duo of Hannes Grossman (just read his credits) and Alex Weber (Exist, WAIT, and more) for this sophomore Detachment from Reality. With a keen sense for guitar crunch, and a strong individual spirit as a guide, could Empyrean Sanctum’s progressive power charms win over our staunchy Rodeö crew? Follow passion down the sci-fi dystopia rabbit hole… – Dolphin Whisperer
Empyrean Sanctum // Detachment from Reality [April 18th, 2025]
El Cuervo: It may not be my first pick — as it might have been 15 years ago — but I always have time for progressive power metal. It’s a sub-genre that oozes immediacy, from crunchy guitars to energetic singers to vibrant synths. Empyrean Sanctum tick these boxes and further dare to border real brutality to gild their heaviest moments across Detachment from Reality. “Lifeless Death” is the easy highlight, boasting uplifting synths and the heroic guitar solos that these guys evidently enjoy playing. However, I find the songs — and as a consequence the album overall — to be interminable. It’s the type of release where I check how many tracks have passed, but it’s only been four minutes and I’m still on the same one. The bookends (“Heart of Gold” and “Elation”) are the longest, which makes starting and restarting the album more arduous than it should be. And the production is also a thick shield to my listening pleasure. The master is obnoxiously loud, and the instrumental tones have a ‘clacky’, inorganic sound that’s anathema to my ears. There’s solid music buried here, but it’s just too difficult to access. 2.0/5.0
Dolphin Whisperer: In a genre so overtaken by re-amped chug-a-lug polyrhythms, it’s refreshing to hear Empyrean Sanctum’s adherence to the melodic backbone of ’00s progressive power metal.1 You know the kind—wailing, synth-backed, bright riffage championed by titans like Threshold or Anubis Gate and glued together with knotty Petrucci (Dream Theater) energy. At least that’s where I feel main mind, Justin Kellerman lives in composition. And in this lane, Detachment from Reality swaggers through riff after riff in an elegant manner, both wearing its length on tracks that ring slower to bubble and burst (“Transparency,” “Lifeless Death”) and sauntering through groovy growth and reprisal with ease (“Heart of Gold,” “Age of Innocence,” “Refinement”). But even when its over-chorused character—Albert Rybka (Katagory V) often finding a classic nasal croon and tasteful falsetto crescendo—hits a touch long in the tooth, Kellerman’s ear for a fitting riff transition alongside Hannes Grossman’s urge to progress and explode his thundering skins keeps the lull at bay. Many of these touches are subtle though, as Kellerman does not guide Empyrean Sanctum via guitar flamboyance and solo trade-offs—guest soloist Per Nilsson (Scar Symmetry, Kaipa) provides just about the only mark in that lane throughout (“Age of Innocence”). This straightforward and tuneful nature, however, plays enough as a successful choice rather than an unintentional miss on the noodle front. And if Kellerman and Empyrean Sanctum ever look to swing for the fences again with a heavier hand in wanksville, his slick compositions may land with an extra imprint and oomph. 3.0/5.0
Mystikus Hugebeard: As it stands, Detachment from Reality is a cool album. The problem is that it’s on the cusp of being an absolutely fuckin’ radical album, and falls just short. To their credit, Empyrean Sanctum nails the rhythm section. Dynamic bass-playing and inventive drum lines augment the guitars, which strike and strike in a percussive heartbeat. “Descent” is a particularly gripping track, a straightforward melody and powerful chorus over a ceaseless chug and strum. The production also lends a beefy heft to the guitars, empowering the riffs in a way that reminds me of the best parts of Hemina without the debilitating stench of cheese. The sticking point is how Detachment from Reality always teeters on the edge of inventive, daring song-craft, but never seems to commit. Apart from some slick guitar work in “Heart of Gold” and the delicious Per Nilsson guest solo in the title track, the lead guitars are rarely allowed the space to do anything befitting the virtuosity of the rest of the music. The songwriting feels more satisfied to shuffle from one riff to the next without erupting into something truly dynamic and challenging, resulting in a dearth of moments that stand out in my memory. It’s like the soundfont of a progressive song structure applied to something less audacious, which really drags the repetition of “Lifeless Death” and “Elation” into an unflattering light. Ultimately, it’s less a fundamental flaw as much as it is untapped potential. Complain though I might, Detachment from Reality deserves your listen. 3.0/5.0
Clark Kent: Empyrean Sanctum’s Detachment from Reality is everything that I love about metal. The album has meticulously crafted long-form songs that seamlessly weave from movement to movement so they never overstay their welcome. Empyrean Sanctum borrows their sound from latter-day Blind Guardian and Symphony X, but without the bombast. There’s a restraint and maturity to the songwriting that makes it feel comforting. In fact, even Mrs. Kent, who usually despises my music, gives her stamp of approval. Detachment from Reality features symphonic progressive metal with orchestration and synths used as an accent rather than the main feature. You get the feeling of joy and composure from all the players: when Albert Rybka’s gruff cleans belt out the chorus of “Age of Innocence,” or Justin Kellerman moves from rhythm to fancy fretwork, or Hannes Grossman provides mid-tempo drumming that serves as a steady beacon throughout the album. I found plenty to enjoy on each song: excellent solos, moody synths, emotive singing, and surprises like the piano on “Lifeless Death” and the heart-pumping riffs on “Refinement.” One might scoff at the length, but it’s so easy to get lost in the mesmerizing melodies that the hour just flies by. With the album’s spacey synths, intergalactic riffs, and out-of-this-world vocals, this makes me feel right at home. 4.0/5.0
#AmericanMetal #AngryMetalGuySUnsignedBandRodeo #AngryMetalGuySUnsignedBandRodeo2025 #AnubisGate #BlindGuardian #DreamTheater #EmpyreanSanctum #Hemina #IndependentRelease #KatagoryV #May25 #PowerMetal #ProgPower #ProgressiveMetal #Review #Reviews #SelfRelease #SymphonyX #Threshold
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Hello tooters! I'm an #embedded #SoftwareEngineer using #c #cplusplus #sh #GNUMake #Perl #Buildroot #Buildbot #Javascript #Thrift #Bootstrap #EclipseCDT #KDE #Debian #Linux to make high speed #microwave #radio network devices.
Also I build and #ride #bicycles outside in #Devon and inside on #Zwift, enjoy #cooking, #beer, red #wine and #coffee 😋
In a different life I might have been in #infosec #particlephysics #astrophysics #chemistry or #robotics !
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🌱🌟 Dived deep into the practice of resilience in vulnerability. Sharing my story opened a floodgate of connection and healing. It's in our most tender moments that we find our true strength. Let's celebrate our shared humanity. #VulnerabilityIsStrength #SharedStories #HealingTogether 💞🕊
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🌱🌟 Dived deep into the practice of resilience in vulnerability. Sharing my story opened a floodgate of connection and healing. It's in our most tender moments that we find our true strength. Let's celebrate our shared humanity. #VulnerabilityIsStrength #SharedStories #HealingTogether 💞🕊
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🌱🌟 Dived deep into the practice of resilience in vulnerability. Sharing my story opened a floodgate of connection and healing. It's in our most tender moments that we find our true strength. Let's celebrate our shared humanity. #VulnerabilityIsStrength #SharedStories #HealingTogether 💞🕊
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Gooooood morning tooters!
I'm awake too early again - not that I had a great night's sleep. My shoulder is hurting - maybe I slept on it awkwardly, or maybe it was the digging yesterday.
#Today? you ask (or not).
I've got to take Sacha's car to the garage for its annual service and first MOT . It's a peculiarity of #motability that before you hand the car back at the end of the lease it has to be serviced and have an MOT certificate.So, I'll take it to the garage, get the bus home, and after lunch I'll go into #leicester city centre to mooch about until they ring me to say it's ready, and then get the free city bus up to the garage.
It's a bit of a pain, but it's maybe a chance to do some sketching in town, and maybe buy a new pair of pyjamas (with fully working elastic at the waist). I'll also get a bit of exercise with the walking around.
Make the most of your Maundy Thursday
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Ethereum Technical Analysis: ETH Teeters Between Bullish Breakout and Bearish Continuation - As ethereum fluctuates within a wide trading range from $2,991 to $3,266 on April ... - https://news.bitcoin.com/ethereum-technical-analysis-eth-teeters-between-bullish-breakout-and-bearish-continuation/ #technicalanalysis #marketsandprices #cryptocurrency #etheranalysis #ethereum(eth) #ethanalysis #ethtrading #crypto
