"Throughout his long life, #Kaplan made many contributions to #Judaism — his landmark 1934 text “Judaism as a Civilization”; the aforementioned #Haggadah; a similarly revamped #Shabbat #prayerbook; and a new university of Judaism on the West Coast. Now his life gets reconstructed in a #biography #published last month, “#MordecaiMKaplan: Restless Soul,” by #JennaWeissmanJoselit.

“I loved #writing it,” #WeissmanJoselit told The Times of Israel of the latest volume in the #Yale University Press #Jewish Lives series. “It kept me awake at night. The questions Kaplan posed were as relevant today as they were back in his time — sometimes even more relevant.”

She explained: “I think he was worried how [Judaism] would survive simply as it was. He did not… see it as able to sustain itself. He did not see its life as guaranteed… He was determined to be its white knight...”

timesofisrael.com/how-an-upsta…

When you travel to another country, you usually can’t speak the language. But in China, you will also be illiterate. It is a good practice to at least learn a few words. The locals really appreciate the effort. Learning Mandarin can be very challenging since it has tones. Certain characters carry deep symbolic weight. Learning about the written script also helps with learning the culture.

Author & Photographer: George Mitchell

George’s Bio

Our advice is not influenced by affiliate links — we have none. Our itineraries, photos, and advice come from three years of travelling around the world, including three months in China, plus one month in Hong Kong and Taiwan. We are avid hikers, nature lovers, and photographers. We are students of art and architecture, culture and cuisine.

Dates suffixed with BC mean “Before Common Era”. Dates suffixed with CE or without any suffix mean “Common Era”.

Being Illiterate in China

Guilin Sunset, China

We went to China before there were cell phones and mobile apps. There were very few signs or menus in Latin characters. Few people spoke English. We felt like we were illiterate. We bought an English-Pinyin dictionary in a small town with 50 people trailing us to see what we were doing. We were challenged in using paper maps to find places or the right bus or train to get to destinations. Yet we managed three months, travelled to many remote areas, and had a great time.

We met three Austrian and American students of Chinese who came from Taipei. They taught us how to order tickets. You don’t need to use full sentences like “May I have two tickets to Guilin for tomorrow, please?”. You simply had to state word phrases for the number of tickets, class and destination.

Guilin View, China

A major flood at the very beginning of our trip had closed down the trains going out of Guangzhou to Guilin. The students found out how to take a boat part of the way to Guilin. We were the only wài guó rén (foreigners) on the ferry boat. The rest of the way we travelled by train.

Mandarin Language

Chinese is NOT the oldest language still in use. The oldest spoken language would be Sanskrit, a 5000-year-old Indo-European language. The current Chinese language, Mandarin, emerged during the Jin and Yuan Dynasties (c. 12th–14th century CE).

The Oldest Script

By contrast, Chinese script, Hànzì, is the oldest written language still in use today. It originated during the Shang Dynasty, around 1200 BC.

Seals

Signature Seal, China

Way before they invented woodblock printing, the Chinese invented the seal(印章 yìnzhāng). Seals have been used in China for over 3,000 years, dating back to the Shangand Zhou Dynasties. Scholars, artists, and officials used seals to authenticate documents, paintings, and calligraphy. Today, seals are still legally binding in China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan.

[strong]Hànzì Written Script[/strong]

Fun with Chinese Characters

Hànzì (汉字) is the same across Chinese dialects. People across China can read the same newspaper or sign, even if they speak different dialects. Hànzì are logograms— symbols that represent words or morphemes (a meaningful unit of language). They are not letters like in the Latin character set. The cartoon shows how the logogram for woman has changed over time.

Note that traditionally, Hànzì is written in vertical columns from top to bottom, right to left. This is still used today for calligraphy, decorative inscriptions, and classical-style books. Today, the most common format is horizontal, left to right, especially in print, digital media, and education. Why? To align with international conventions and make printing and typesetting easier.

[strong]Cultural Symbolism[/strong]

Jade Chopsticks on Double Happiness Wedding Bowl

Certain characters carry deep symbolic weight. Learning about the written script also helps with learning the culture. The “Double Happiness” script (囍, shuāngxǐ) was created by joining two copies of the character 喜 (xǐ, meaning “joy” or “happiness”) into a single symmetrical logogram. The Double Happiness symbol dates back to the Tang dynasty (618–907 CE), where it became linked with auspicious weddings. You can read more about the origin of this Double Happiness symbol.

Traditionally, families would gift porcelain bowls, cups, or ginger jars decorated with the Double Happiness symbol to newlyweds. It symbolizes marital bliss, prosperity, and good fortune for the couple and their families. The porcelain would be painted in red, the colour of luck and celebration in Chinese culture. This bowl is part of our wedding dish set.

Mandarin History

Mandarin Chinese originated from northern Chinese dialects and began to take shape during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE). It was promoted by the Yuan and Ming Dynasties as a lingua franca among officials from different regions.

Mandarin (Putonghua, which literally means common speech) was formally established as the official national language of the People’s Republic of China in 1955. This version was based on the Beijing dialect.

Pinyin

In 1958, the Chinese developed a phonetic system known as pinyin as a method of writing their language using the Latin alphabet. As the majority of immigrants to the West came from impoverished Guangdong Province, most of our original place and food names were based on the Cantonese dialect. China formally pushed for the universal use of Mandarin place names starting in 1979, when the United Nations adopted Pinyin as the international standard.

This is very interesting. If Italians did the same thing, then we would have to stop using the Anglicized names of Rome, Florence and Venice and switch to the true city names of Roma, Firenze, e Venezia. As a former resident of Roma, this makes sense to me.

Most Chinese people of the younger generations can read and use Pinyin. Pinyin is taught in primary schools across China to help children learn pronunciation and reading before mastering Chinese characters. It’s widely used for typing Chinese on phones and computers. Many public signs, dictionaries, and learning materials include Pinyin alongside Chinese characters.

Learning Mandarin

Yes, learning Mandarin is more difficult than Japanese. There are two main reasons — very different phonemes (units of sound) and tones that change the sound and meaning of similarly-spelled words.

Mandarin Phonemes

Phonemes are units of sound. Generally, the sounds are read as they’re pronounced in English. There are a few oddities, though: Retroflex sounds are pronounced with the tongue curled back toward the roof of the mouth.

AI is pronounced “eye”. The word hǎi (sea) is pronounced “h-eye” and bái (white) is pronounced “b-eye”.

C is pronounced “ts” as in its.

EI is pronounced “ay”. The city of Beijing is pronounced “bay-jing”.

ER as in “èr” (number two) or ér (affectionate or diminutive suffix added to a person’s name): This vowel sounds like a growly “arrr” and is common.

I is usually pronounced “ee”; but after zh, ch, sh, or r, it’s more like a buzzing vowel or even a syllabic consonant.

J (as in “ji”) is like “j” in “jeep” but softer. The city of Beijing is pronounced “bay-jing”.

O is pronounced “aw” as in law or “uo” as in wore. The city of Chongqing is pronounced “chawng-ching”.

Q is pronounced “ch” as in choose; q as in “qi” is like “ch” but lighter and more forward: the Qin Dynasty is pronounced “chin” and is the origin of our name China. The city of Chongqing is pronounced “chawng-ching”.

R (as in “ren”) is not like the English “r” — it’s more like a cross between “r” and “zh”.

SH is pronounced retroflex S, with the tongue curled back toward the roof of the mouth, as in shoe. Shénme (what) is pronounced “shun-muh”.

U is pronounced “oo” as in food.

Ü as in “nǚ” (female or woman): This high front rounded vowel doesn’t exist in English. It’s like saying “ee” while rounding your lips as if saying “oo”. It is like “lune” in French.

X is pronounced as a soft, hissy “sh” sound made with the tongue close to the teeth: the word xiao (little) is pronounced “sh-ao”. The city Xi’an is pronounced “shi-an”.)

Z is pronounced “ds” as in bids

Zh is pronounced as the consonant j, sounds like a hard “j” but with a retroflex twist: the city Guangzhou (Canton) is pronounced “gwang jo”.

Mandarin Tones

Mandarin has four tones (plus a neutral tone), which makes it hard for foreigners to learn Mandarin. Tone marks are indicated by diacritical marks as shown below. They totally change the meaning of a word:

1. High level (e.g., mā – “mother”)
2. Rising (má – “hemp”)
3. Falling-rising (mǎ – “horse”)
4. Falling (mà – “scold”)

Westerners often struggle to hear and reproduce these tones accurately, which can lead to some hilarious misunderstandings, especially if you call a mother a horse!

Communicating in China

George & Corinne at The Great Wall, China
With so many people learning English, communicating in China will not be as difficult as we experienced it. Even when we travelled, Chinese who spoke English came to our train car to talk with us. We met lots of people this way.

We travelled a lot to rural and mountain areas. There were no Pinyin menus available there. We first walked around the tables in the restaurant to check what the Chinese were ordering and what dishes were the most popular. We used gestures and a piece of paper to ask the locals to write down the name of their dish. Then we gave those scripts to a server.

Top English-Mandarin Translation Apps

There are many English-Mandarin translation apps available, and they cater to different needs—from casual travellers to serious language learners. Here are some of the most popular and effective ones:

NB:

• In Mainland China, Google Translate is blocked without a VPN, so Microsoft Translator, Pleco, or Papago are more reliable.
• For travellers, Google Translate or Papago are the most convenient for menus, signs, and casual chats.
• For learners, Pleco is unmatched, since it doubles as a study tool with flashcards and stroke order diagrams.

Google Lens (Image Search)

“Living in the Dust, Yet Transcending the Dust” Ancient Chinese Script, Yi Garden, Suzhou

I put Google Lens (Image Search) to the test. Could it translate the text on this slide? It could not, since it is not Hànzì. But it found a Chinese post that had the exact same image and translated the script into Hànzì. I then used Google Translate, which said it meant “Living in the Dust, Yet Transcending the Dust”. This is not the Hànzì script. Seal script is a rounded and highly stylized script still used today for seals and monumental inscriptions.

Vocabulary

Basic Greetings & Politeness

Everyday Essentials

Food & Drink

Travel & Directions

Place Names

Pinyin spelling shows phonetic pronunciation and tone marks. This table lists the common morphemes or word parts used in place names. It will make these Chinese names more meaningful.

Another common problem is the proper spelling of compound names in Pinyin. This is not helped by the inconsistencies across the internet and some of the idiosyncrasies in Pinyin usage.

Generally, compound names are spelled as separate words, like Zhuōzhèng Yuán (Humble Administrator’s Garden) or Xuanmiao Guan (Temple of Mystery). It is the place type (Yuán) that is separated. The compound name (Zhuōzhèng) is not.

But in common usage, many names are treated as a single lexical unit; i.e. no intervening space. Liu Yuan (Wandering Garden) and Huang Shan (Yellow Mountain) are usually written as one word – Liuyuan or Huangshan. Our posts try to use the correct spelling of place names.

Final Comments

When you travel to another country, you usually cannot speak the language. It is a good practice to at least learn a few words. The locals really appreciate the effort.

Surprising Fact for Today

There are over 50,000 logograms in Chinese script, though about 3,000–4,000 cover everyday use. Unlike European languages, there is no verb conjugation. Chinese verbs don’t change form for tense or subject. Time is shown with context words (e.g., yesterday, tomorrow). For more surprising facts, read Mind-Blowing Facts About China That Will Change Your View.

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Other Posts You May Like

Resources

China Map, our custom Google map

Travel Tips and Culture Guides

Here are some other posts on China.

Myths and Mysteries of the Great Wall

[strong]From Ideas to Innovation: China’s Dynamic Dynasties[/strong]

From Past to Pagoda: Exploring Chinese Gems

Mind-Blowing Facts About China

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Asia Encounters

2025-10-31 13:56:49

Mind-Blowing Facts About China That Will Change Your View

We travelled for three months through China, plus one month in Hong Kong and Taiwan, during our three-year round-the-world backpack trip. Travelling was a deep dive into the geography, history, creativity and culture of China. Read on to learn some surprising facts while seeing photos from our trip.

So much of our modern civilization is based on the achievements and creativity of the Chinese people.

“All our civilization is based on invention; before invention, men lived on fruits and nuts and pine cones and slept in caves.”

Reginald Fessenden, Canadian inventor, AM Radio and Sonar

Author & Photographer: George Mitchell

George’s Bio

Our advice is not influenced by affiliate links — we have none. Our itineraries, photos, and advice come from three years of travelling around the world, including three months in Japan. We are avid hikers, nature lovers, and photographers. We are students of art and architecture, culture and cuisine.

The sights in this blog can be found on our custom China Map. The points of interest are appended with their Google Maps Ratings, which range from G0 to G5.

Read the Demystifying the Chinese Language post to learn how to pronounce Mandarin (pinyin) names. Acronyms can be found on the Abbreviation page.

The Real Name is Not China

The Chinese do not call their nation China. Their name is Zhōngguó (中国), meaning Middle Kingdom. This name reveals their ancient belief that China was the center of civilization. It reflects both a cultural worldview shaped by geographic isolation and a sense of technological and civilization superiority.

The name Zhōngguó dates back to the Zhou Dynasty (1046 – 256 BC), when the Zhou State was the middle state of a decentralized feudal kingdom.

Our name for China is derived from the Qin Dynasty (221 – 206 BC), which unified China under imperial rule. Qin is pronounced “chin”. It was Western Asians who called it China. In fact, the Sanskrit language referred to the region as Cīna.

Geography

Map of China © Nations Online Project

China is the third-largest country in the world, only slightly larger than the United States. It borders 14 countries, more than any other nation in the world. China, with 1.42 billion people, is no longer the world’s most populous country. As of 2025, it is second to India, with 1.47 billion people.

China consists of 23 Provinces, 5 Autonomous Regions (Guangxi, Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, Tibet (Xizang) and Xinjiang), 4 Municipalities, and 2 Special Administrative Regions (Hong Kong and Macau).

All of China uses one time zone, because the Communist government in 1949 was interested in administrative efficiency and centralized governance. In comparably sized countries, both the United States and Canada use six time zones.

Rivers and Formations

Yangtze River

Three Gorges, Yangtze River, China

The Yangtze is the longest river in Asia and the third longest in the world, stretching over 6,300 km (3,915 mi). We travelled on a boat with the locals from Chongqing to Wuhan through the Three Gorges, a stunning natural formation. Now this trip is interrupted by the massive Three Gorges Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric projects in the world.

Guilin Karst Landscape

Guilin Sunset, China

We also travelled by boat to the surreal karst landscapes of Guilin. These iconic limestone peaks rise dramatically from the ground, creating jagged virtual silhouettes that have inspired Chinese art and poetry for centuries. We had seen famous landscape paintings in the National Palace Museum in Taipei. We finally realized those paintings were real.

And now, the twist you didn’t see coming. These karst formations are limestone, which means they are composed of the compressed shells of billions of marine organisms, like coral and shellfish. This, in turn, means Guilin, which was under the ocean, was uplifted by tectonic forces. This area was a shallow tropical sea during the Carboniferous (359–299 million years ago) and Permian (299–252 million years ago) periods!

By the way, the landscape in the movie Avatar was not based on Guilin. It was inspired by the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan Province. Zhangjiajie features over 3,000 vertical columns, some reaching 200 m high, often shrouded in mist.

Tibetan Plateau

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=9068779" title="Gyantse, Tibet, China By Antoine Taveneaux - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=9068779" class="has-alt-description">Gyantse, Tibet, CC BY-SA (Wikipedia) Edited

The Tibetan Plateau, often called the “Roof of the World,” is the highest and largest plateau globally, covering over 2.5 million square km. This high alpine region has an average altitude of about 4,500 m (14,750 ft). It is home to approximately 13 million people. The Tibetan Plateau covers approximately 26% of China’s total land area. This makes it one of the most dominant and defining geographic features of the country.

Deserts and Dinosaurs

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=344629" title="Sand dunes, Gobi Desert, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=344629" class="has-alt-description">Gobi Desert, Inner Mongolia, CC BY-SA (Wikipedia) Edited

Roughly 27% of China’s land area is classified as desert. This includes major deserts like the Gobi (southern Mongolia) and Taklamakan (Xinjiang Province), located in the northern and northwestern regions of the country.

This means a total of 53% of China is arid or alpine and so underpopulated, while the eastern part is highly overpopulated. Overall, China has a population density of 150 people/km², while Canada has 4.7 people/km².

Dinosaurs

Dinosaur fossils are found mainly in China’s desert regions because the dry climate and sedimentary rock formations there create ideal conditions for fossil preservation and discovery. In wetter or tropical regions, the rain would have eroded any fossils away.

China is a paleontological treasure trove, especially in regions like Liaoning, Sichuan, and Xinjiang. Most dinosaur fossils found in China date back to the Jurassic Period (201–145 million years ago) and Cretaceous Period (145–66 million years ago).

Dino Country, Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta, Canada

China accounts for over one-third of all known dinosaur species globally. Over 350 dinosaur species have been discovered in China, accounting for more than 35% of all known dinosaur species. For more on the demise of the dinosaurs, see What is a Mass Extinction Event?

Canals and Walls

The Grand Canal

Grand Canal, Suzhou, China

The Grand Canal is the longest man‑made waterway in the world. The Grand Canal from Beijing to Hangzhou is 1,776 km (1,104 mi) – longer than the distance from Montreal to Miami.

Suzhou Tour 3 – The Venice of China

The Great Wall

The Great Wall, China

The Great Wall is the longest in the world at approximately 21,196 km (13,171 mi), including all sections. The mortar used to bind the Great Wall’s stones was made with sticky rice! When cooked, sticky rice (glutinous rice) releases amylopectin—a starchy compound that acts like glue. When mixed with slaked lime, it created a strong, water-resistant mortar that was more durable than traditional lime mortar alone.

This was the world’s first known composite mortar! This ingenious blend, known as sticky rice mortar, dates back to the Northern Wei Dynasty (386–534 CE) and became widespread during the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644). This mortar was used not only in the Great Wall but also in tombs, city walls, and other ancient structures across China. Researchers have found that structures built with sticky rice mortar have withstood centuries of weathering, earthquakes, and erosion.

Myths and Mysteries of the Great Wall

History

Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum

Qin Shi Huang Tomb, Xi’an, China

Qin Shi Huáng was the first (shi) emperor (huáng) of China. It took around 39 years to build the Terracotta Army, a set of around 8,000 clay soldiers built in Xi’an to guard the Emperor’s tomb. Each statue has a unique face!

Foreign Conquests

Datong Awaits: China’s Timeless Treasures

Was China ever conquered and ruled by non-Han Chinese people? Yes, there were five main periods:

The Northern Wei Dynasty (386–534 CE) was founded by Xianbei, a nomadic culture of the Eastern Eurasian Steppe. Their realm stretched from Dunhuang in the west to Luoyang in the south, and to the borders of Manchuria and Goryeo in the east. The Northern Wei drew many frontier peoples into the Chinese state, accelerating the long‑term formation of a multi‑ethnic China. They became deeply integrated into Chinese society.

The Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) was founded by Kublai Khan, a Mongol ruler and grandson of Genghis Khan. The Mongols conquered all of China and established the Yuan Dynasty, making it the first time China was fully ruled by a non-Han ethnic group.

The Qing Dynasty (1644–1912) was founded by the Manchus, an ethnic group from northeast China (Manchuria). Though not foreign in the modern sense, they were culturally distinct from the Han Chinese and are considered a conquest dynasty.

The Russian Annexation seized Outer Manchuria, including Vladivostok, through the imposition of unequal treaties (1858 & 1860) on the Qing Dynasty. The seized land has an area of 910,000 sq km (350,000 sq mi).

The Japanese Occupation (1937–1945) seized large parts of China, including Manchuria (1931), Beijing, Shanghai, Wuhan, Nanjing, and Guangzhou. Cities like Chongqing, which remained under Chinese control, were heavily bombed.

The Qing Dynasty was one of the Largest Empires

The Qing Dynasty reached its greatest territorial extent around the mid‑18th century (especially after 1760), covering roughly 13 million square km (5 million square mi) —making it one of the largest empires in world history. It stretched past Xinjiang into regions that today lie in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. Nepal, Thailand, Vietnam, Burma, Laos and Cambodia were tributary states (but are not included in the territory figures).

Were Xinjiang, Tibet and Taiwan always part of China?

Were Xinjiang, Tibet and Taiwan always part of China? Here is a historically grounded table showing whether each of the major dynasties exercised effective control over Xinjiang, Tibet, and Taiwan.

Dynasty	Xinjiang	Tibet	Taiwan
Qin (221–206 BC)	No	No	No
Han (206 BC–220 CE)	Partial	No	No
Tang (618–907)	Yes	Partial	No
Yuan (1271–1368)	Yes	Yes	No
Ming (1368–1644)	No	Partial	No
Qing (1644–1912)	Yes	Yes	Yes

Legend

• Yes = Direct rule or imperial administration
• Partial = Influence, suzerainty, or intermittent control
• No = No meaningful control

Quick Interpretive Notes

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=72669678" title="Tibet Himalayas & Tibetan Plateau, China By Dan - Imported from 500px (archived version) by the Archive Team. (detail page), CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=72669678" class="has-alt-description">Tibet Himalayas & Tibetan Plateau, CC BY-SA (Wikipedia) Edited

I have reviewed only the six main dynasties of China covering 1371 years. To my surprise, I found out that China has a stronger claim on Xinjiang and Tibet than I had expected.

Also note that before 1240, Tibet was not a unified state but rather a collection of tribes and regions. There was a short-lived independent Tibetan Empire (618–842 CE) that coincided with the Silk Trade Routes.

Mengjia Longshan Temple, Taipei

My second surprise was that China has less of a claim on Taiwan than everyone assumes. Taiwan was an independent kingdom until the Europeans colonized it — The Dutch from 1624 to 1662 and the Spanish (north Taiwan) from 1626 to 1642.

Then the Kingdom of Tungning (Chinese) ruled Taiwan (1662–1683). It was led by Koxinga, who opposed the Qing, which was a foreign-controlled (Manchurian) dynasty. The Qing Dynasty conquered Taiwan in 1683. Japan seized control of Taiwan in 1895 and held it until it became independent in 1945.

Ideas & Inventions

Scholar Gentry

Scholar Gentry Rubbing, Shaanxi Provincial Museum, Xian

The civil service exams promoted intellectual rigour and rewarded talent, creating a government run by educated thinkers rather than hereditary nobles. The scholar-gentry were elite civil servants who gained status through the imperial examination system, which tested mastery of Confucian classics and the sciences. Ancient China’s culture of innovation was significantly shaped by its well-educated scholar-gentry class, who played a central role in governance, education, and cultural development.

In short, the scholar-gentry didn’t just run the country—they cultivated a society where intellectual achievement and practical innovation were deeply intertwined.

Qufu & Taishan: China’s Ancient Heritage

Landscape Painting

Mansions in the mountains of paradise, Painting, Dong Yuan, National Palace Museum, Taipei

China invented the landscape painting genre during the 4th and 5th centuries CE. During the Tang Dynasty (618–906), artists started to depict nature not just as background but as the main subject. Known as shanshui (山水, “mountains and water”), Chinese landscape painting used brush and ink rather than Western-style pigments

Traditional Gardens

Scholar Gentry Garden, Suzhou

Chinese gardens began to take shape as early as the Shang and Zhou Dynasties (16th century–221 BC). Early gardens were vast hunting parks for kings and nobles. The classical garden style truly emerged during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE). The concept of the traditional Chinese garden—an idealized miniature landscape—started to crystallize. Gardens were designed for reflection, poetry, and philosophical contemplation. These gardens emphasized harmony between man and nature, often featuring winding paths, lotus ponds, and symbolic rocks.

In the Song Dynasty (960–1279 CE), the villas of the scholar gentry included gardens based on Chinese garden design principles. The city of Suzhou is the best place to see them. This not only influenced later Chinese gardens but also led to the Japanese traditional garden. Garden design elements include:

Balance and Harmony are achieved through yin (female) and yang (male) principles. Yin includes softness, adaptability, and water, which symbolize flow and change. Yang includes rocks and mountains, which symbolize strength, stability and permanence.

Layered Perspectives are achieved through overlapping elements — rock formations, water features, plants, and pavilions. This creates depth and dynamic views as one moves through the space. Pathways should never be straight. Pathways lead to new focal points. Walkways frame views like a painting.

The place to see traditional gardens is Suzhou, the Venice of China and a silk capital during the Silk Road Era. Read more about the scholar gentry and their gardens in these posts.

[strong]Suzhou Tour 1 –Zhuōzhèng Yuán to Wǎngshī Yuán[/strong]

Suzhou Tour 2 – Canglang Pavilion to Beisi Pagoda

Suzhou Tour 3 – Liuyuan to Tiger Hill

The Four Great Inventions

Paper Cuts, China

China invented the compass, paper, gunpowder, and printing, known as the [strong]Four Great Inventions[/strong]. Ironically, these inventions allowed five great European powers to eventually rule the world between the 15th and 18th centuries.

Should we be surprised that ice cream was also invented in China in 200 BC? Marco Polo brought back the recipe to Italy. I think we have to change China’s Four [strong]Great Inventions[/strong] (do all humans have a fascination with lists?) to the Five Great Inventions, since ice cream should be right up there with paper, printing, compass and gunpowder!

Toilet Paper

Toilet paper was invented in China in the 6th century. Toilet paper was not widely available to the general population—it was considered a luxury reserved for elites, especially in imperial circles. Modern toilet paper was invented in 1857 in the USA.

Kite

The Chinese invented the kite over 3,000 years ago. Kites were used to send signals between units during battles, especially when visibility was poor. Kites were even used for psychological warfare—long before they became recreational toys. During the Chu-Han War (203–202 BC), kites were used to play haunting music over enemy camps, demoralizing troops.

Suspension Bridge

The Chinese invented the suspension bridge. Historical records suggest that the first iron chain suspension bridge in China was the Fan River Bridge in Han Zhong, constructed around 206 BC. These designs were especially common in the high mountains between China and Tibet, where terrain made other bridge types unfeasible.

Chopsticks

Jade Chopsticks on Double Happiness Wedding Bowl

Developed about 5,000 years ago, the earliest chopsticks were used to reach into hot pots. In other words, they were used for cooking, not eating. They later evolved into eating utensils due to cultural, practical, and philosophical influences. Early chopsticks were made from bronze, then later from bamboo, ivory, jade, and porcelain.

Grandma Feeding Toddler, Suzhou

For those who don’t know how to use chopsticks, don’t feel bad. Chinese children don’t know how to use chopsticks either. In Suzhou, we saw a grandmother feed her grandchild.

Ideas & Innovation

There are so many concepts and inventions made by the Chinese. You can see them in the post below:

[strong]From Ideas to Innovation: Dive Into China’s Dynamic Dynasties[/strong]

Language

Ancient & Modern Hanzi Characters, China

The Chinese script, Hanzi, is the oldest written language still in use today. It originated during the Shang Dynasty, around 1200 BC. The cartoon shows how one of the logographs has changed over time.

The official language is Mandarin, which is based on northern dialects. It was promoted by the Yuan and Ming Dynasties as a lingua franca among officials from different regions.

China has over 300 languages and dialects. The Han Chinese make up 92% of the population. But there are many Chinese dialects, classified by linguists into nine major language families. The other 8% consists of 56 ethnic groups. The main ethnic minority languages include:

• Tibetan (Tibet and parts of Qinghai)
• Uyghur (Xinjiang)
• Mongolian (Inner Mongolia)
• Zhuang (Guangxi)
• Korean (Yanbian in Jilin)
• Kazakh, Yi, Miao, and many others

Social Customs

There are some amusing facts about social customs. For instance, the Chinese New Year lasts 15 days. Half of all pigs on earth live in China.

Colour Red

Wedding Porcelain Set, Canada

The colour red symbolizes happiness. Red is associated with happiness and is prominently featured during celebrations such as the Lunar New Year and weddings. It signifies wealth and is often used in decorations and gifts. It is commonly used in festivals, palaces, and the vermilion paint of temples. Chinese brides wear red silk gowns. We received a red porcelain dining set for our wedding.

Colour White

White is the traditional colour for mourning! It is worn at funerals and during periods of mourning, reflecting the belief that white signifies death and the end of life. This association is deeply rooted in Chinese customs.

But white also symbolizes purity, clarity, and innocence, reflecting a complex duality. White wedding gowns have gained popularity, reflecting a blend of Western influence and traditional symbolism of purity.

Top Hobby

Summer Palace Stamp 1956, China

The main hobby in China is stamp collecting! This set of six stamps we bought displays Beijing’s ancient architectural attractions – this one is the Summer Palace from the Qing Dynasty. These stamps, dating back to 1956, employ exquisite engraving and printmaking techniques.

Silk Brocade Stamp Album, China

Now we understand why we could easily buy many decades-old commemorative stamps at the post office. We even bought a beautiful silk brocade-covered stamp album with a protective sleeve! Note the red panda on the cover. The album has typical cardstock pages with polyester sleeves to hold the stamps. Incredible buy.

Misconceptions and Mistruths

Fortune cookies are not Chinese. They were invented in 1920 in the USA.

The Oldest Language

Proto-Indo-European Migration Map

Chinese is NOT the oldest language still in use. Old Mandarin emerged during the Jin and Yuan Dynasties (c. 12th–14th century CE).

The oldest language would be Sanskrit, a 5000-year-old Indo-Iranian language. It originated from the language spoken by the Proto-Indo-European (PIE) people (formerly called the Aryans), who spread out from the Caucasus Mountains to Europe, Turkey, Iran, India, and Xinjiang (China). [strong]Sanskrit[/strong] is one of the original languages of the Indo-European language group. These languages share many words. For instance, Sanskrit: mātṛ; Latin: mater; Greek: mētēr; Hindi: mātā; and Farsi (Persian): mâdar.

Sericulture Secrecy

Chinese Silk Tablecloth, Hangzhou Brocade Factory

Revealing the secret of silk-making was punishable by death in ancient China. This secrecy helped China dominate the silk trade during the Silk Trade Era. But it is not true that China was the only country that practiced sericulture.

Sericulture knowledge did spread to Korea and Japan. Korea acquired silk production techniques as early as the Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BC). In the 4th to 6th centuries CE, Chinese artisans and Buddhist monks brought sericulture techniques to Japan. These exchanges were sanctioned by the Chinese court during times when China sought to strengthen alliances or spread influence.

[strong]Other Posts That May Interest You[/strong]

Here are some other posts on China. Read the Demystifying the Chinese Language post to learn how to pronounce Mandarin (pinyin) names.

National Palace Museum Treasures Shaped World

Myths and Mysteries of the Great Wall

Xi’an: Ancient Treasures That Transformed China

[strong]Why Chengde Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List[/strong]

3 Hidden Gems of Chengdu

From Past to Pagoda: Exploring Chinese Gems

Final Comments

When you travel to another country, you usually lack any knowledge about how that country was shaped by its past or what influence it had on other countries. Hopefully, this post gave you a sense of how significant an impact China made on the world.

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This was only a taste of [em]China. What questions do you have?[/em] If you have been to [em]China, share your experiences with us. How long is/was your trip? [/em]

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Other Posts You May Like

Resources

China Map, our custom Google map

Travel Tips and Culture Guides

Here are some other posts on the culture of China. While the posts on Buddhism were written about Thailand, the terms and concepts are basically the same throughout the world.

Cracking the Code: Demystifying Chinese

[strong]From Ideas to Innovation: China’s Dynamic Dynasties[/strong]

Buddhist Terms & Symbolism

Guide to Thai Buddhism

Google Maps Ratings

Google Maps provides a rating from 0 to 5 for all sights, hotels, and restaurants (but not cities). All our recommendations are appended with the rating (prefixed with a G) from Google Maps. Google Ratings are based on feedback from locals as well as tourists. They are much more reliable than travel booking websites or tourist anecdotes.

We consider a score of 4 to 4.39 to be Very Good and 4.4 to 5 to be Excellent.

All photos and text © Terra Encounters
except where noted CC BY-SA (Creative Commons Wikipedia)
[strong]Asia Encounters is a subsidiary of Terra Encounters[/strong]

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On moments that were never meant to be noticed… but never forgotten.

We take photos for a lot of reasons.

To remember. To hold onto something before it slips away. To capture a moment we don’t want to lose.

People take photos of everything—the big moments, the small ones, the ones that feel important, and the ones that don’t seem like much at all.

And sometimes, we hand that responsibility over. We hire a professional and entrust them with the burden of capturing the most important moments of all.

But not every photo stays with us. Some get a quick glance, maybe a smile, and then they fade—lost in a feed, buried in a folder, forgotten over time. And then there are the others. The ones that hit a little different. You don’t just see them—you feel them. They pull you back without warning, not just to what happened, but to how it felt to be there. For a moment, you’re right back in it.

And whether you realize it or not, those are the ones that quietly remind you of the why.

Back in college, one of the jobs I had was as a photographer—but not the photographer. I wasn’t the one directing people, lining them up, or telling them where to stand. That was my boss, the main photographer. He handled the big moments, the planned shots, the polished ones—the kind that made it into the fancy, bedazzled albums, the ones that got framed and hung in prominent places.

Me? I worked the edges.

I took the candid shots—the behind-the-scenes moments. Unposed. Unplanned. Completely real. While everyone was focused on the “important” moments, I was capturing everything in between: a laugh that slipped out too early, a quiet glance no one noticed, a conversation happening just off to the side.

My photos didn’t make it to the front of the album. Most of them ended up tucked away, placed into cheap sleeves, forgotten over time. But those photos carried something different. They carried stories. Stories of unplanned moments, of unexpected interactions—the kind that don’t ask for attention but hold onto it once you see them. The kind that flood you with memories every time you come back to them. The kind that unapologetically remind you of the why.

Today, it’s different. Now, everyone has a camera in their hands. Everyone is documenting life as it’s happening—the meal about to be devoured, a kid on the verge of doing something incredibly stupid or incredible, a sunset just beyond the trees, light filtering through a beer bottle.

Everyone’s a photographer, and honestly, it’s a beautiful thing.

But not everyone sees the same way.

Back then, it was just me, hired to hang out and document your moments from a different point of view. Sometimes that meant standing nearby, listening in on conversations—about life, about your story, about the “why” behind who you are, or about nothing at all. Never really part of it, but somehow a necessary presence.

There was no pressure. No performance. No forced smiles. Just presence. Just people being themselves. There were laughs. There was silence. Arguments. Disagreements. Whatever happened, it was real.

And while all of that unfolded, I was there with my camera, quietly capturing it all—the glances, the gestures, the in-between moments, the unguarded pieces of humanity. It felt awkward at first. Really awkward. But then something shifted. The walls came down. And then people appeared.

And what was left wasn’t just a collection of photos—it was something honest. A story. Your story, lived, not staged, told frame by frame. A story to share, or one to keep close just for yourself. Or maybe just small pieces of it, released into the world. No fanfare. No celebration. Just smiles, memories, and stories told later, recalled fondly over drinks.

I still hold on to the idea that the best photographs aren’t the ones that are carefully planned, heavily filtered, perfectly processed, and beautifully framed. Don’t get me wrong—when done right, those can be some of the most visually stunning images you’ll ever see. But the ones that stay with you, the ones that matter, are something else entirely.

They’re the unfiltered ones. The unplanned ones. The ones that live in the background, quietly holding everything together. Those tell a story, sometimes about an isolated moment in time, sometimes a small piece of a larger journey.

Somewhere along the way, I realized those were the moments I was drawn to most. Not the perfect ones, but the honest ones. Not the ones we perform for, but the ones we live in.

Like a writer tells stories, a photographer captures moments that will be relived countless times.

Maybe that’s what this is now—a return to that space. A conversation. A moment. A story unfolding without direction. Just people, as they are.

And maybe… that’s the most beautiful part of all.

There’s more waiting at https://xinkblotz.com. Telling stories, sharing thoughts, and drinking coffee. A blend of fiction, reflection, and whatever’s brewing – one post at a time.

Bring Me The Horizon – POST HUMAN: NeX GEn (Album Review)

Bring Me The Horizon just released highly anticipated album, POST HUMAN:NeX GEn! Initially announced as a September 2023 release, the album finally dropped last night (24/05/2024). In the meantime, the band has won a Brit Award, embarked on an arena tour, and parted ways with Jordan Fish. Members Oli Sykes (Vocals), Lee Malia (Guitar), Matt Kean (Bass), and Matt Nicholls (Drums) deliver something unique. A fusion of genres, with hints of post-hardcore, collaborations with Glassjaw and Underoath, and even elements of pop, drum and bass, and rap. It’s a wild ride that you don’t want to miss!

Opening track “[ost]dreamseeker” serves as a brief and straightforward album introduction. It’s necessity is certainly questionable.

The journey truly begins with “YOUtopia”, fans of Bring Me The Horizon will instantly resonate with this. Leaning towards the pop side, this track still carries a riff that hooks you in. It’s not the band’s first venture into this style, it would seamlessly blend into their album, “amo”.

“Kool-Aid” is a fantastic song! I’ve already done an indepth review of this song check it out here!

“Top 10 staTues tHat CriEd bloOd”, is quite the sing-along. The chorus, “No one’s gonna come and rescue me, I’m drowning in my sleep,” is catchy as hell. This song showcases the song writing growth and I enjoy the layering of screams and singing. The drums in the breakdown are another standout point in this track.

youtube.com/watch?v=_nrpxowbIY…

“liMOusine ft Aurora” is a departure from their usual sound. It’s slow and reminiscent of a Deftones song. Surprisingly, I find myself enjoying it despite despising Deftones. I think it’s because Bring Me The Horizon brings something interesting to the table, unlike Deftones who bore me to death. The song has a noughties vibe, and the collaboration between the two vocalists is impressive. Adding a nu-metal flavour that really stands out on the album. In fact, this might just be my favourite track!

youtube.com/watch?v=e8U96n8L-l…

“DArkSide” is a typical radio song its got a sticky chorus . Also its riffs are killer too. However, unlike some other songs on the album, this one won’t be on repeat in your mind all day.

Next song “a bulleT w/ my namE On ft Underoath”, shares similarities with the previous song. What sets it apart is its heavier sound and the provocative lyrics “If Jesus Christ returns we’ll just kill that f*cker twice.” It has a weird outro that somewhat taints the song.

I get the idea of interludes in albums but “[ost] (spi)ritual” has me thinking what on earth is this? Have I turned on a rap album by mistake? Honestly I don’t get it. Pair that with the later interlude of “[ost] p.u.s.s.-e” , neither are needed and I find they ruin the flow of the album.

Diving into the lyrics of “n/A” and you’ll find yourself in what seems an indie song based on one of Oli’s addiction support group sessions. Personally, I can’t stand this track – I don’t mind a well-placed swear word for emphasis, but this entire track just feels unnecessarily crude.

I think “LosT” would have been a better fit if released by Sum41. In my opinion, the band lacks the punk edge needed to really nail this song. It’s fun and not terrible, but it definitely needs a bit more attitude!

“sTraNgeRs” is incredible! The vocals are crystal clear and it showcases the band’s talents perfectly. It would have fit in well on album “That’s the Spirit”, it brings a much-needed ballad with a memorable chorus. The harsh vocals at the end give it that classic Bring Me The Horizon edge as well as featuring some of the best lyrics on the album.

“Well, I guess my guardian angel missed the memo
‘Cause we’re walking on razors again
And we swore to God we’d never let this happen, no
We’ve dragged ourselves through hell and we’ll be damned if we go back”

youtube.com/watch?v=FsNGxsrcZa…

On “R.i.p (duskCOre RemIx)” seems to have gone overboard with the processing and sampling. While it’s entertaining, it doesn’t really bring anything new to the album. Honestly, it’s a track I’ll skip from now on.

If you’re looking for a heavy song then here it is. “AmEN!” By teaming up with Lil Uzi Vert and Daryl Palumbo really add some meat to the bones of the song. Lyrics such as “Tell your friends this is the end of everything” is an earworm. Personally I think Palumbo’s feature was the only one that was needed.

youtube.com/watch?v=2TjcPpases…

The hunt for filler song ends with “DiE4u.” This pop-infused track is sprinkled with screams but it doesn’t stand out in any way. Sure its relatively catchy but falls right in the middle of the road. However, if you’re a fan of sing-alongs its probably enough to win you over.

The final track, “DIg It”, begins with an eerie alexa-like voice that transitions into soft vocals and synthetic bass. Suddenly out of nowhere you’re taken back to the raw energy of Count Your Blessings with some of the most intense harsh vocals on the entire album. Unfortunately, this nostalgic moment is short-lived as the song mellows out to silence equally abruptly. After a two-minute pause, the alexa-esque voice brings the album to a close.

I must applaud the band for their bold attempt to deviate from the typical metalcore album formula. They haven’t just taken a risk, they’ve taken a whole bucket load! Although not all of them have paid off, there are definitely some remarkable moments. This is by far the best Oli has sounded on any Bring Me The Horizon album, and it’s only fair to acknowledge that. This album requires multiple playthroughs, as there are new discoveries with each subsequent listen. Personally, I feel that the production on the album is excessive and could have been toned down massively. While it may not reach the heights of albums like Sempiternal, it still has its fair share of standout moments. Perhaps in the future, they could consider reducing the number of interludes, and honestly, this 16-song album could have easily been condensed to 12 songs. Also in future please for god sake name your songs with the right capitalisation!

7/10

Best songs

Kool-Aid , Top 10 staTues tHat CriEd bloOd , liMOusine, A bulleT w/ my namE On, sTraNgeRs, AmEN!

Songs To Avoid

[ost] (spi)ritual, [ost] p.u.s.s.-e, n/A

Got something to say ? Leave it as a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in this review belong to their respective owners and I or this website does not claim any right over them.

Review written by Fox Reviews Rock

As always the song(s) in my reviews are added to my Spotify Playlist find out more about that here as well as on my Spotify Podcast find out more about that here .

Review: Three Days Grace’s New Era at Manchester Concert

The review reflects on an unforgettable concert experience at the O2 Apollo in Manchester, featuring Three Days Grace and Badflower. Despite initial challenges, the night was marked by powerful performances and emotional connections between the two bands. The reviewer praises the dual-vocal approach of Three Days Grace, highlighting their new album as a celebration of…

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

Song Of The Week – Maya – Alessa Moore

Alessa Moore’s latest single, “Maya,” showcases a fusion of garage rock and post-punk with raw, emotional lyrics reflecting accelerationist nihilism. The track balances vulnerability and edge, solidifying Maya’s distinctive place in the alternative music scene. Fans can catch their live performance at Circuit, Kingston Upon Thames, on 24 April 2026.

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

New Rock Roundup Vol 43

The New Rock Roundup is a weekly feature ranking recent rock music releases across various genres. Each entry includes personal insights from the author, Fox, regarding why they enjoy the songs. The post highlights tracks from Florence Black, Seether, Lo Rays, Good Riddance, Cartel, Switchfoot, and Vegaslice, concluding with Fox’s personal ranking.

by Fox Reviews Rock30th Mar 202630th Mar 2026

#Album #AlbumReview #Blog #Blogging #BringMeTheHorizon #HardRock #Metal #Music #MusicReview #POSTHUMANNeXGEn #Review #rock #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

2024-03-27 16:00:00

Bring Me The Horizon ‘Kool-Aid’ – A Groundbreaking Return to Metalcore

Fresh off an electrifying performance at Download 2023 which showcased the band’s evolution as well as the festival’s willingness to gamble on the next generation. Bring Me The Horizon has returned with their latest track “Kool-Aid” which will feature on their now-delayed album “Post Human: Nex Gen”.

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foxreviewsrock/episodes/Fox-Reviews-Rock-Ep8–Bring-Me-The-Horizon—Kool-Aid-e2hkfto

This is the first single released by the band since Jordan Fish (Keyboard/Backing Vocals) departed the band. Perhaps the Church of Genxesis adverts at Download 2023 should have inquired “Anyone know where I can get any good Jordan Fish and Chips”, yeah maybe you needed to be there for that one. Fish’s arrival in the first place marked a change in their sound so maybe we can expect another one now?

If you want to go and see live music click the Ticketmaster logo below to buy your tickets!

In the past there have been moments where you would be forgiven for thinking Bring Me The Horizon was an Oli Sykes (Vocals) solo project. However, I am thrilled that Kool-Aid has taken a monumental step back from that. It truly showcases the band’s incredible talent for their respective instruments.

youtube.com/watch?v=Jq4NhAnnD0…

As the song kicks off Mat Nicholls (Drums) sets the stage with an eerie build-up, before a clap that brings Sykes into the action. Lee Malia (Guitar) and Matt Kean (Bass) not only hold their own throughout the track but there are moments when they shine, especially in the breakdown! But let us not forget about Sykes, his vocals, whilst clearly altered post-production in parts, are undeniably impressive with his screams harkening back to the intensity of their 2nd album “Suicide Season”.

The song delves into the depths of society’s blind conformity, using the drinking Kool-Aid metaphor. Highlighting the disturbing reality of those in power being able to manipulate and exploit the masses without consequence. I feel this is highlighted in lyrics such as “Asphyxiating with a smile on your face while they pull your teeth out one by one”. In contrast, it is hard to ignore the cringe-worthy lyrics of “Kool-Aid by the jug/give me a hug”. Seriously who on earth came up with that monstrosity? Let us also file the final ten seconds into the same category!

After what feels like an eternity this, multiple-personality, band has returned to the metalcore scene, where I feel they truly thrive and create phenomenal songs. Hopefully, their phase of experimenting with pop-like tunes is behind them. This song is for fans of bands such as While She Sleeps and Asking Alexandria and rather
surprisingly for me at least fans of early Bring Me The Horizon!
7.5/10

Got something to say ? Leave it as a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in this review belong to their respective owners and I or this website does not claim any right over them.

Review written by Fox Reviews Rock

Review edited by Cozzer

As always the song(s) in my reviews are added to my Spotify Playlist find out more about that here as well as on my Spotify Podcast find out more about that here .

Review: Three Days Grace’s New Era at Manchester Concert

The review reflects on an unforgettable concert experience at the O2 Apollo in Manchester, featuring Three Days Grace and Badflower. Despite initial challenges, the night was marked by powerful performances and emotional connections between the two bands. The reviewer praises the dual-vocal approach of Three Days Grace, highlighting their new album as a celebration of…

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

Song Of The Week – Maya – Alessa Moore

Alessa Moore’s latest single, “Maya,” showcases a fusion of garage rock and post-punk with raw, emotional lyrics reflecting accelerationist nihilism. The track balances vulnerability and edge, solidifying Maya’s distinctive place in the alternative music scene. Fans can catch their live performance at Circuit, Kingston Upon Thames, on 24 April 2026.

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

New Rock Roundup Vol 43

The New Rock Roundup is a weekly feature ranking recent rock music releases across various genres. Each entry includes personal insights from the author, Fox, regarding why they enjoy the songs. The post highlights tracks from Florence Black, Seether, Lo Rays, Good Riddance, Cartel, Switchfoot, and Vegaslice, concluding with Fox’s personal ranking.

by Fox Reviews Rock30th Mar 202630th Mar 2026

#Blogging #BringMeTheHorizon #HardRock #Metal #Music #MusicReview #Review #rock #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

Playlist · Fox Reviews Rock · 878 items · 30 saves

^{Fox Reviews Rock (Spotify)}

Embrace Individuality with Dorothy’s Black Sheep Anthem

In 2022, the LA-based rock band Dorothy unveiled their third album, Gifts From The Holy Ghost, following the success of their 2018 release, 28 Days In The Valley. Brace yourself for their latest single, Black Sheep, as it will get stuck in your head like a monstrous earworm!

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foxreviewsrock/episodes/Fox-Reviews-Rock-Ep13—Dorothy—Black-Sheep-e2jdb6r

Forming back in 2014, the same year Rolling Stone magazine ranked them 14th among the 50 best new artists, hailing them as a must-know band! These accolades are well-deserved in my opinion. I’d say their music is a fusion of blues and hard rock – a unique sound that’s fantastic.

The track kicks off with powerful vocals (Dorothy Martin) emphasizing unity and kinship with the lyrics “We are blood we are family.” Skillful drumming (Jake Hayden’s ) and killer riffs (Sam Koltun) which set the energetic tempo of the song. The bass (Eliot Lorango) holds everything together seamlessly from beginning to end, making sure it’s not overshadowed. But let’s get one thing straight, the chorus is the heart of this tune – it’s infectious, impactful, and will have you humming along all day long!

“Hail, hail the black sheep
We are blood, we are family

Pray the lord my soul to keep
Hail, hail, the black sheep

Thinkin’ like water, think it speaks
Oh, how the river runs deep

We are blood, we are family
Hail, hail the black sheep”

If you want to go and see live music click the Ticketmaster logo below to buy your tickets!

youtube.com/watch?v=5zBUlhcRyW…

This song truly highlights the band’s talents from beginning to end. The first time I came across it was while listening to a playlist on Spotify, and I had to stop the car. I was determined to find out the artist and to write a review on it!

The one downside to this song is that the chorus in this song is so catchy that it overshadows the rest of the lyrics. You can’t help but anticipate hearing “Hail Hail the Black Sheep” again and throwing up the horns. However, that’s somewhat unfair if you focus on the lyrics, there are some really powerful lines. Like when they talk about embracing being different with lines such as “Call me an outcast, call me a freak, watch those bullets ricochet straight off of me.” Despite the chorus stealing the show, those lyrics are definitely worth paying attention to.

It’s quite a challenge to compare this band to others, but I can definitely draw some similarities to Halestorm (a band they’ve opened for in the past). The lead singers share some common traits, although I must say Dorothy leans more towards a bluesy style compared to Lzzy. I can’t help but detect hints of “I Love Rock And Roll” by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts in their music, but that could just be me.

Overall song is absolutely amazing! It’s a fantastic tribute to individuality and highlights the unity within the rock and metal community. It exudes confidence, attitude, and an incredible amount of passion. It’s the perfect anthem for all the outsiders and rebels who embrace their uniqueness!

8.5/10

Got something to say ? Leave it as a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in this review belong to their respective owners and I or this website does not claim any right over them.

Review written by Fox Reviews Rock

As always the song(s) in my reviews are added to my Spotify Playlist find out more about that here as well as on my Spotify Podcast find out more about that here .

Review: Three Days Grace’s New Era at Manchester Concert

The review reflects on an unforgettable concert experience at the O2 Apollo in Manchester, featuring Three Days Grace and Badflower. Despite initial challenges, the night was marked by powerful performances and emotional connections between the two bands. The reviewer praises the dual-vocal approach of Three Days Grace, highlighting their new album as a celebration of…

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

Song Of The Week – Maya – Alessa Moore

Alessa Moore’s latest single, “Maya,” showcases a fusion of garage rock and post-punk with raw, emotional lyrics reflecting accelerationist nihilism. The track balances vulnerability and edge, solidifying Maya’s distinctive place in the alternative music scene. Fans can catch their live performance at Circuit, Kingston Upon Thames, on 24 April 2026.

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

New Rock Roundup Vol 43

The New Rock Roundup is a weekly feature ranking recent rock music releases across various genres. Each entry includes personal insights from the author, Fox, regarding why they enjoy the songs. The post highlights tracks from Florence Black, Seether, Lo Rays, Good Riddance, Cartel, Switchfoot, and Vegaslice, concluding with Fox’s personal ranking.

by Fox Reviews Rock30th Mar 202630th Mar 2026

#Album #AlbumReview #Art #Blog #Blogging #Dorothy #HardRock #Metal #Music #MusicReview #Review #rock #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

2024-02-14 16:30:00

Halestorm ‘Back from the Dead’ Album: Uniting Authentic Ballads and Defiant Rock Anthems

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/steven1417/episodes/Fox-Reviews-Rock-Ep2—Halestorm—Back-From-The-Dead-e2gm0vm

In 2022 the Grammy award-winning quartet from Pennsylvania emerged with a new album “Back from the Dead”.

Ferociously powerful is the only way to describe Lzzy Hale’s screams of “I’m back from the dead”. It is clear, only moments into listening, that this is their heaviest record to date. The title track is the bands 6th number 1 single and is a perfect blend of heavy bass (Josh Smith), thunderous drumming (Arejay Hale) and captivating guitar solos (Joe Hottinger) that demonstrates the musical prowess of the entire band.

If you want to go and see live music click the Ticketmaster logo below to buy your tickets!

youtube.com/watch?v=srT0pgC_yt…

“Wicked Ways” is a song I can picture being belted out in front of a sold-out arena all over the world and truly demonstrates the vocal range and power on display and transports me back to the first time I ever heard the band with the single “I Miss the Misery” from “The Strange Case of …”, their 2012 offering. This song is Catchy,
memorable and, most importantly, brilliant!

Fast-paced, heavy, and packed full of attitude is the perfect way to describe this album. “Strange Girl” demonstrates this with a clear message to be who you are and to never change for anyone!

Religion is not something always appreciated in music, but this album has it as an undertone throughout and finds ways to include it in creative ways. “Steeple” is a perfect example of this with lyrics such as “This is our church, This is our steeple, This is our church, You are my people”. What I like about this example is that it insinuates that wherever the band plays is their church and the crowd is their congregation.

youtube.com/watch?v=YxuXh-U7vm…

Halestorm attacks misogyny and how women should behave in rock with the song “Bombshell” which includes various lines stemming back to how the industry wants women to behave.One example is, “Girl behave and know your place” where the band shows direct disobedience with “You’re never gonna shut me up”. Listening to the lyrics makes you wonder how many brilliant bands were made to change their image. Thankfully Halestorm again showed defiance “I’m never gonna zip it up, zip it up”.

The slower pace of “Raise Your Horns” is a beautiful ballad that closes out the album with grace. It truly showcases the spectrum this band is capable of when they want to be their authentic selves. This is the perfect song to unite an entire arena and festivals, a crowd all singing and raising their horns will surely be a wonderful sight to behold.

Previous accusations of going too mainstream to gain new listeners and gain further traction might have leveled at their feet. However “Back from the Dead” feels much more like going to see them live. It might be less polished, but in this case that’s exactly what is needed. As a result it feels more authentic, less forced and something to stick on repeat for a couple of hours.

7.5/10

Got something to say ? Leave it as a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in this review belong to their respective owners and I or this website does not claim any right over them.

Review written by Fox Reviews Rock

Review edited by Cozzer

As always the song(s) in my reviews are added to my Spotify Playlist find out more about that here as well as on my Spotify Podcast find out more about that here .

Review: Three Days Grace’s New Era at Manchester Concert

The review reflects on an unforgettable concert experience at the O2 Apollo in Manchester, featuring Three Days Grace and Badflower. Despite initial challenges, the night was marked by powerful performances and emotional connections between the two bands. The reviewer praises the dual-vocal approach of Three Days Grace, highlighting their new album as a celebration of…

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

Song Of The Week – Maya – Alessa Moore

Alessa Moore’s latest single, “Maya,” showcases a fusion of garage rock and post-punk with raw, emotional lyrics reflecting accelerationist nihilism. The track balances vulnerability and edge, solidifying Maya’s distinctive place in the alternative music scene. Fans can catch their live performance at Circuit, Kingston Upon Thames, on 24 April 2026.

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

New Rock Roundup Vol 43

The New Rock Roundup is a weekly feature ranking recent rock music releases across various genres. Each entry includes personal insights from the author, Fox, regarding why they enjoy the songs. The post highlights tracks from Florence Black, Seether, Lo Rays, Good Riddance, Cartel, Switchfoot, and Vegaslice, concluding with Fox’s personal ranking.

by Fox Reviews Rock30th Mar 202630th Mar 2026

#Album #ArejayHale #Blog #Blogging #Halestorm #HardRock #JoeHottinger #JoshSmith #LzzyHale #Metal #Music #MusicReview #Review #rock #RockReview #Writing

Halestorm - The Steeple [Official Video]

Official video for Halestorm's new single "The Steeple"Download/Stream: https://Halestorm.lnk.to/TheSteepleIDThe new album 'Back From The Dead' available now...

^{Halestorm (YouTube)}

Bring Me The Horizon ‘Kool-Aid’ – A Groundbreaking Return to Metalcore

Fresh off an electrifying performance at Download 2023 which showcased the band’s evolution as well as the festival’s willingness to gamble on the next generation. Bring Me The Horizon has returned with their latest track “Kool-Aid” which will feature on their now-delayed album “Post Human: Nex Gen”.

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foxreviewsrock/episodes/Fox-Reviews-Rock-Ep8–Bring-Me-The-Horizon—Kool-Aid-e2hkfto

This is the first single released by the band since Jordan Fish (Keyboard/Backing Vocals) departed the band. Perhaps the Church of Genxesis adverts at Download 2023 should have inquired “Anyone know where I can get any good Jordan Fish and Chips”, yeah maybe you needed to be there for that one. Fish’s arrival in the first place marked a change in their sound so maybe we can expect another one now?

If you want to go and see live music click the Ticketmaster logo below to buy your tickets!

In the past there have been moments where you would be forgiven for thinking Bring Me The Horizon was an Oli Sykes (Vocals) solo project. However, I am thrilled that Kool-Aid has taken a monumental step back from that. It truly showcases the band’s incredible talent for their respective instruments.

youtube.com/watch?v=Jq4NhAnnD0…

As the song kicks off Mat Nicholls (Drums) sets the stage with an eerie build-up, before a clap that brings Sykes into the action. Lee Malia (Guitar) and Matt Kean (Bass) not only hold their own throughout the track but there are moments when they shine, especially in the breakdown! But let us not forget about Sykes, his vocals, whilst clearly altered post-production in parts, are undeniably impressive with his screams harkening back to the intensity of their 2nd album “Suicide Season”.

The song delves into the depths of society’s blind conformity, using the drinking Kool-Aid metaphor. Highlighting the disturbing reality of those in power being able to manipulate and exploit the masses without consequence. I feel this is highlighted in lyrics such as “Asphyxiating with a smile on your face while they pull your teeth out one by one”. In contrast, it is hard to ignore the cringe-worthy lyrics of “Kool-Aid by the jug/give me a hug”. Seriously who on earth came up with that monstrosity? Let us also file the final ten seconds into the same category!

After what feels like an eternity this, multiple-personality, band has returned to the metalcore scene, where I feel they truly thrive and create phenomenal songs. Hopefully, their phase of experimenting with pop-like tunes is behind them. This song is for fans of bands such as While She Sleeps and Asking Alexandria and rather
surprisingly for me at least fans of early Bring Me The Horizon!
7.5/10

Got something to say ? Leave it as a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in this review belong to their respective owners and I or this website does not claim any right over them.

Review written by Fox Reviews Rock

Review edited by Cozzer

As always the song(s) in my reviews are added to my Spotify Playlist find out more about that here as well as on my Spotify Podcast find out more about that here .

Review: Three Days Grace’s New Era at Manchester Concert

The review reflects on an unforgettable concert experience at the O2 Apollo in Manchester, featuring Three Days Grace and Badflower. Despite initial challenges, the night was marked by powerful performances and emotional connections between the two bands. The reviewer praises the dual-vocal approach of Three Days Grace, highlighting their new album as a celebration of…

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

Song Of The Week – Maya – Alessa Moore

Alessa Moore’s latest single, “Maya,” showcases a fusion of garage rock and post-punk with raw, emotional lyrics reflecting accelerationist nihilism. The track balances vulnerability and edge, solidifying Maya’s distinctive place in the alternative music scene. Fans can catch their live performance at Circuit, Kingston Upon Thames, on 24 April 2026.

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

New Rock Roundup Vol 43

The New Rock Roundup is a weekly feature ranking recent rock music releases across various genres. Each entry includes personal insights from the author, Fox, regarding why they enjoy the songs. The post highlights tracks from Florence Black, Seether, Lo Rays, Good Riddance, Cartel, Switchfoot, and Vegaslice, concluding with Fox’s personal ranking.

by Fox Reviews Rock30th Mar 202630th Mar 2026

#Blogging #BringMeTheHorizon #HardRock #Metal #Music #MusicReview #Review #rock #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

2024-03-05 18:00:00

Fox Reviews Rock Podcast!

Exciting news! Today marks the release of the Fox Reviews Rock Podcast on Spotify! Now, you can listen to all my latest posts as audio. Whether you prefer listening over reading or you’re simply too busy to read, this won’t be an issue anymore. This unique format allows you to absorb my thoughts and opinions on rock and metal albums in a whole new way. Don’t forget to follow the podcast on Spotify and give it a listen below. I’ll also be including a Spotify link in each of my posts, so make sure to check it out! Lastly, I would greatly appreciate it if you could share the podcast with others.

open.spotify.com/show/4SrtT44S…
#Album #AlbumReview #Blog #Blogging #dIO #FoxReviewsRock #GreenDay #Halestorm #HardRock #Metal #Music #MusicReview #OzzyOsbourne #Podcast #Review #rock #Spotify #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

Podcast · Steven · This is a podcast to give readers of fox reviews rock the chance to listen to my latest album reviews instead. All my podcast episodes are voice overs of posts originally shared on foxreviewsrock.wordpress.com

^Spotify

Spiritbox Jaded: Impressive Music Video, Catchy Lyrics, and Vocal Range

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foxreviewsrock/episodes/Fox-Reviews-Rock-Ep15—Spiritbox—Jaded-e2ju5ra

Named as Best International Breakthrough Band in 2021 at the Heavy Music Awards Spiritbox are massive at the moment! The band was formed by husband and wife duo Mike Stringer and Courtney LaPlante from the ashes of metalcore band IWrestledABearOnce. Latest EP Fear of Fear was released in late 2023 and features the Grammy nominated song Jaded which is an epic Goliath of a tune.

The music video seems to take place in a maze of mirrors, creating a unique visual experience. Each band member gets their fair share of screen time, which is always nice. LaPlante stands out in a sleek black latex suit, a bold fashion statement in such a confined space with three other people rather her than me! The music video showcases the guitarist’s intricate work in the video with closeups which are brilliant.

If you want to go and see live music click the Ticketmaster logo below to buy your tickets!

youtube.com/watch?v=EjnZVpVvJ-…

The song starts with a dark an ominous electronic sound, making me question if I accidentally switched to an episode of Stranger Things. Adding to the mix are the quiet vocals and intricate guitar work, intensifying the suspense and building up anticipation before the track explodes into full force. And boy, does it explode! The drums (Zev Rose) crash in with force (I particularly love the kickdrum in this piece), accompanied by a thumping bassline (Josh Gilbert) and a guitar riff that is both nasty and tasty at the same time! The band has collaborated with Architects’ Sam Carter before; this riff definitely gives off Architects vibes.

The clean vocals possess a fragility and delicacy that exudes an almost innocent sound. It’s astonishing how they contrast with the harsh vocals, making it hard to believe they originate from the same person. Yet, these two contrasting styles complement each other flawlessly, like two sides of a coin. In addition the vocals seamlessly blend with the instruments on this track. Showcasing LaPlante’s exceptional talent as one of the finest metal vocalists in the current music scene.

Lyrically this song is brilliant, delving into profound themes like solitude, individual battles, and the yearning for salvation. And let’s not forget, the chorus is incredibly catchy!

“I’ve never found a way to be honest
All I know is a place where I haunted memories faded
Blood is jaded
And I’ve always been ashamed that I wanna
Fall into a dream with my honour desecrated
Blood is jaded
I’ve never found a way to be honest
All I know is a place where I haunted memories faded
Love is jaded”

My favourite part of the whole song has got to be the way the vocals are layered in the final chorus. It’s just so powerful and emotional, and it really showcases LaPlante’s incredible vocal range! As well as showing off the tracks production as being clear and sharp!

The haunting melodies and explosive instrumentals on this track have me eagerly anticipating the band’s upcoming album, I think its the best song they have released since Circle With Me! Plus, the fact that Jordan Fish (previously of Bring Me The Horizon) is working with them in the studio is exciting news. Catch the band as special guests on tour with Korn this summer!

9.5/10

Got something to say ? Leave it as a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in this review belong to their respective owners and I or this website does not claim any right over them.

Review written by Fox Reviews Rock

As always the song(s) in my reviews are added to my Spotify Playlist find out more about that here as well as on my Spotify Podcast find out more about that here .

Review: Three Days Grace’s New Era at Manchester Concert

The review reflects on an unforgettable concert experience at the O2 Apollo in Manchester, featuring Three Days Grace and Badflower. Despite initial challenges, the night was marked by powerful performances and emotional connections between the two bands. The reviewer praises the dual-vocal approach of Three Days Grace, highlighting their new album as a celebration of…

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

Song Of The Week – Maya – Alessa Moore

Alessa Moore’s latest single, “Maya,” showcases a fusion of garage rock and post-punk with raw, emotional lyrics reflecting accelerationist nihilism. The track balances vulnerability and edge, solidifying Maya’s distinctive place in the alternative music scene. Fans can catch their live performance at Circuit, Kingston Upon Thames, on 24 April 2026.

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

New Rock Roundup Vol 43

The New Rock Roundup is a weekly feature ranking recent rock music releases across various genres. Each entry includes personal insights from the author, Fox, regarding why they enjoy the songs. The post highlights tracks from Florence Black, Seether, Lo Rays, Good Riddance, Cartel, Switchfoot, and Vegaslice, concluding with Fox’s personal ranking.

by Fox Reviews Rock30th Mar 202630th Mar 2026

#Album #AlbumReview #Blogging #BringMeTheHorizon #HardRock #Korn #Metal #Music #MusicReview #Review #rock #Spiritbox #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

2024-03-27 16:00:00

Bring Me The Horizon ‘Kool-Aid’ – A Groundbreaking Return to Metalcore

Fresh off an electrifying performance at Download 2023 which showcased the band’s evolution as well as the festival’s willingness to gamble on the next generation. Bring Me The Horizon has returned with their latest track “Kool-Aid” which will feature on their now-delayed album “Post Human: Nex Gen”.

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foxreviewsrock/episodes/Fox-Reviews-Rock-Ep8–Bring-Me-The-Horizon—Kool-Aid-e2hkfto

This is the first single released by the band since Jordan Fish (Keyboard/Backing Vocals) departed the band. Perhaps the Church of Genxesis adverts at Download 2023 should have inquired “Anyone know where I can get any good Jordan Fish and Chips”, yeah maybe you needed to be there for that one. Fish’s arrival in the first place marked a change in their sound so maybe we can expect another one now?

If you want to go and see live music click the Ticketmaster logo below to buy your tickets!

In the past there have been moments where you would be forgiven for thinking Bring Me The Horizon was an Oli Sykes (Vocals) solo project. However, I am thrilled that Kool-Aid has taken a monumental step back from that. It truly showcases the band’s incredible talent for their respective instruments.

youtube.com/watch?v=Jq4NhAnnD0…

As the song kicks off Mat Nicholls (Drums) sets the stage with an eerie build-up, before a clap that brings Sykes into the action. Lee Malia (Guitar) and Matt Kean (Bass) not only hold their own throughout the track but there are moments when they shine, especially in the breakdown! But let us not forget about Sykes, his vocals, whilst clearly altered post-production in parts, are undeniably impressive with his screams harkening back to the intensity of their 2nd album “Suicide Season”.

The song delves into the depths of society’s blind conformity, using the drinking Kool-Aid metaphor. Highlighting the disturbing reality of those in power being able to manipulate and exploit the masses without consequence. I feel this is highlighted in lyrics such as “Asphyxiating with a smile on your face while they pull your teeth out one by one”. In contrast, it is hard to ignore the cringe-worthy lyrics of “Kool-Aid by the jug/give me a hug”. Seriously who on earth came up with that monstrosity? Let us also file the final ten seconds into the same category!

After what feels like an eternity this, multiple-personality, band has returned to the metalcore scene, where I feel they truly thrive and create phenomenal songs. Hopefully, their phase of experimenting with pop-like tunes is behind them. This song is for fans of bands such as While She Sleeps and Asking Alexandria and rather
surprisingly for me at least fans of early Bring Me The Horizon!
7.5/10

Got something to say ? Leave it as a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in this review belong to their respective owners and I or this website does not claim any right over them.

Review written by Fox Reviews Rock

Review edited by Cozzer

As always the song(s) in my reviews are added to my Spotify Playlist find out more about that here as well as on my Spotify Podcast find out more about that here .

Review: Three Days Grace’s New Era at Manchester Concert

The review reflects on an unforgettable concert experience at the O2 Apollo in Manchester, featuring Three Days Grace and Badflower. Despite initial challenges, the night was marked by powerful performances and emotional connections between the two bands. The reviewer praises the dual-vocal approach of Three Days Grace, highlighting their new album as a celebration of…

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

Song Of The Week – Maya – Alessa Moore

Alessa Moore’s latest single, “Maya,” showcases a fusion of garage rock and post-punk with raw, emotional lyrics reflecting accelerationist nihilism. The track balances vulnerability and edge, solidifying Maya’s distinctive place in the alternative music scene. Fans can catch their live performance at Circuit, Kingston Upon Thames, on 24 April 2026.

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

New Rock Roundup Vol 43

The New Rock Roundup is a weekly feature ranking recent rock music releases across various genres. Each entry includes personal insights from the author, Fox, regarding why they enjoy the songs. The post highlights tracks from Florence Black, Seether, Lo Rays, Good Riddance, Cartel, Switchfoot, and Vegaslice, concluding with Fox’s personal ranking.

by Fox Reviews Rock30th Mar 202630th Mar 2026

#Blogging #BringMeTheHorizon #HardRock #Metal #Music #MusicReview #Review #rock #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

Playlist · Fox Reviews Rock · 878 items · 30 saves

^{Fox Reviews Rock (Spotify)}

Beyond: Unveiling Corey Taylor’s Evolving Sound

Towards the end of 2023, Corey Taylor, the charismatic frontman of the immensely popular bands Slipknot and Stone Sour, unveiled his second solo album, the aptly titled CMFT2. While both bands showcase Taylor’s immense talent, I would argue that this album leans more towards the Stone Sour side, with its hard rock sound rather than heavy metal. Among the tracks on CMFT2, “Beyond” stands out as a top choice.

open.spotify.com/episode/0SFIr…

“Beyond” is predominantly melodic in terms of vocals, with occasional rare screams that add an extra layer of intensity. Personally, I admire the way they layered Taylor’s vocals in this track, gradually intensifying as the song progresses. It’s a dynamic piece that features a guitar part that draws you in from the start, not to mention a brilliant solo towards the end. The lively drums throughout the song maintain a consistent rhythm, reminiscent of early 2000s bands. While it may not showcase Taylor’s strongest vocal performance, I appreciate the angsty vibe it brings to what is essentially a love song.

youtube.com/watch?v=k0PKw1B7mS…

If you want to go and see live music click the Ticketmaster logo below to buy your tickets!

The music video for “Beyond” takes place in the Mojave Desert, with Taylor walking amidst his former selves, bandmates, and the Cherry Bombs (one of whom happens to be his wife). Later in the video, the band performs to a crowd of fans in the desert. I particularly enjoyed the video for its clever portrayal of Taylor’s past appearances, with everyone rallying behind him, marching towards the future.

Interestingly, “Beyond” has been a work in progress since 2006, undergoing four or five rewrites, and Taylor’s perspective on it has evolved. Initially conceived as an aggressive love song, he now sees it as a unifying anthem.

If it were an unreleased Stone Sour track, I would easily believe it, as it possesses a softer, melodic quality that resonates as an anthem. This starkly contrasts with the sheer epic chaos of Slipknot. Undoubtedly, “Beyond” is a song that will make people raise their fists in the air, making it a perfect choice to close a set.

Honestly, I’m always up for checking out anything Corey Taylor puts out. I’d however love to see him bring back Stone Sour from their hiatus instead of working on CMFT3. While I’m excited to catch his solo project in June, I feel like it’s the weakest of his musical endeavours.

6/10

Got something to say ? Leave it as a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in this review belong to their respective owners and I or this website does not claim any right over them.

Review written by Fox Reviews Rock

As always the song(s) in my reviews are added to my Spotify Playlist find out more about that here as well as on my Spotify Podcast find out more about that here .

Review: Three Days Grace’s New Era at Manchester Concert

The review reflects on an unforgettable concert experience at the O2 Apollo in Manchester, featuring Three Days Grace and Badflower. Despite initial challenges, the night was marked by powerful performances and emotional connections between the two bands. The reviewer praises the dual-vocal approach of Three Days Grace, highlighting their new album as a celebration of…

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

Song Of The Week – Maya – Alessa Moore

Alessa Moore’s latest single, “Maya,” showcases a fusion of garage rock and post-punk with raw, emotional lyrics reflecting accelerationist nihilism. The track balances vulnerability and edge, solidifying Maya’s distinctive place in the alternative music scene. Fans can catch their live performance at Circuit, Kingston Upon Thames, on 24 April 2026.

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

New Rock Roundup Vol 43

The New Rock Roundup is a weekly feature ranking recent rock music releases across various genres. Each entry includes personal insights from the author, Fox, regarding why they enjoy the songs. The post highlights tracks from Florence Black, Seether, Lo Rays, Good Riddance, Cartel, Switchfoot, and Vegaslice, concluding with Fox’s personal ranking.

by Fox Reviews Rock30th Mar 202630th Mar 2026

#Album #AlbumReview #Blogging #CoreyTaylor #HardRock #Metal #Music #MusicReview #Review #rock #Slipknot #StoneSour #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

2024-03-05 18:00:00

Fox Reviews Rock Podcast!

Exciting news! Today marks the release of the Fox Reviews Rock Podcast on Spotify! Now, you can listen to all my latest posts as audio. Whether you prefer listening over reading or you’re simply too busy to read, this won’t be an issue anymore. This unique format allows you to absorb my thoughts and opinions on rock and metal albums in a whole new way. Don’t forget to follow the podcast on Spotify and give it a listen below. I’ll also be including a Spotify link in each of my posts, so make sure to check it out! Lastly, I would greatly appreciate it if you could share the podcast with others.

open.spotify.com/show/4SrtT44S…
#Album #AlbumReview #Blog #Blogging #dIO #FoxReviewsRock #GreenDay #Halestorm #HardRock #Metal #Music #MusicReview #OzzyOsbourne #Podcast #Review #rock #Spotify #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

Podcast · Steven · This is a podcast to give readers of fox reviews rock the chance to listen to my latest album reviews instead. All my podcast episodes are voice overs of posts originally shared on foxreviewsrock.wordpress.com

^Spotify

Papa Roach – Leave A Light On (Talk Away The Dark) – (Song Review)

Papa Roach’s latest hit single “Leave A Light On (Talk Away The Dark)” from their album “Ego Trip” not only marks their 12th number 1 but also, delivers a powerful message. Known for their deep meaningful lyrics, the band has tackled themes like broken families, violence, and crime in the past, but this time they shine a light on suicide prevention.

open.spotify.com/episode/63Dap…

The bands lead singer Jacoby Shaddix, shared a close friendship with the late Chester Bennington from Linkin Park. When Chester tragically took his own life, it deeply affected Jacoby. The live recording is dedicated to him. Interestingly, musically, this track bears a striking resemblance to Linkin Park’s “One More Light.” Perhaps it’s the shared theme of lights fading away and the emotional tone that connects these songs.

If you want to go and see live music click the Ticketmaster logo below to buy your tickets!

During their live performances, the band makes a special dedication to the American Foundation For Suicide Prevention. Not only do all royalties from the song go to the foundation, but fans also donated over $150,000 during their latest tour.

youtube.com/watch?v=FmjrTdTydL…

The song commences with gentle vocals harmonizing with a melancholic acoustic guitar. As the tune unfolds, it intensifies, evoking a surge of emotions and heartfelt sentiments. The bassist (Tobin Esperance) seamlessly weaves the soundscape together, while the drums (Tony Palermo), played with mallet sticks on a bass drum, add the final touch. The raw emotion and anguish in the vocals are palpable, creating a truly impactful experience. The chorus while obviously catchy creates a beautiful reminder that people dont always ask for help, even when they need it the most. Offering to be their light in the dark can help immensely.

“It’s not like me to worry
But when I see you fading in the dark
I’ll leave a light on for you
Through the long nights, I will be right
There for you if you drift too far
I’ll leave a light on for you”

I particulary like the opening lines, they are real and thats what this song needs. Its such a serious subject that anything other than the brutal truth would not only be disingenuous but also harmful.

“Dry bones rattle in a lonely soul
Slipped and fell into a deep black hole
I can tell you’re lost, I’m here for you“

The music video shot during one of their live shows, has Shaddix and the guitarist (Jerry Horton) close together in perfect sync, surrounded by a sea of fans holding lights in the background. This visual masterpiece beautifully captures the band’s symbolic message on leaving a light on. I think personally this track has some serious guts, its stripped back but gets the message across as if it was hit home with a hammer. The band have some absolute tunes but this has hit the top 5 for me. A change of pace for sure in the bands music library but something I wish musically they would explore more often.

Shaddix explained that the song aims to “strip things back and be as raw and real as possible. It’s all about being a support system for your loved ones.” This is a crucial message to emphasize. In times of others’ struggles, show love, care, and be a beacon of light. Remember to reach out to your friends and utilize the fantastic services highlighted in this review if you ever find yourself in a dark place. Finally please view the comments section as a safe space.

9/10

Got something to say ? Leave it as a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in this review belong to their respective owners and I or this website does not claim any right over them.

Review written by Fox Reviews Rock

As always the song(s) in my reviews are added to my Spotify Playlist find out more about that here as well as on my Spotify Podcast find out more about that here .

Beyond: Unveiling Corey Taylor’s Evolving Sound

Corey Taylor is back with Beyond , the single from his second solo Album CMFT2. With a video set in the Mojave Desert , ft some of his past personnas its a visual treat. The song is more melodical than his work in Slipknot so if you’re a fan of Stone Sour this is for…

by Fox Reviews Rock29th May 202415th Jul 2024

Spiritbox Jaded: Impressive Music Video, Catchy Lyrics, and Vocal Range

Spiritbox Jaded is a song that demonstrates the bands technical talents , the lead singer LaPlante’s phenomenal voice and well as being really darn interesting in sound. From latest EP Fear of Fear , Jaded is a massive hit!

by Fox Reviews Rock22nd May 202415th Jul 2024

Embrace Individuality with Dorothy’s Black Sheep Anthem

Dorothy, the LA-based rock band, released their third album, “Gifts From The Holy Ghost,” in 2022. latest single, “Black Sheep,” is an incredibly catchy and infectious tune. The song showcases powerful vocals, skillful drumming , killer riffs , and seamless bass . The chorus of “Black Sheep” is the heart of the song and will…

by Fox Reviews Rock8th May 202415th Jul 2024

#Album #AlbumReview #Blogging #HardRock #LinkinPark #Metal #Music #MusicReview #PapaRoach #Review #rock #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

2024-03-20 16:00:00

Linkin Park ‘Friendly Fire’: A Detailed Review and Analysis

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/steven1417/episodes/Fox-Reviews-Rock—Ep7–Linkin-Park—Friendly-Fire-e2ham4e

The multi-award-winning band Linkin Park has dropped the previously unreleased single “Friendly Fire” from their upcoming compilation album “Papercuts (Singles Collection 2000-2023)”. Originally meant for the 2017 album “One More Light”, this track was a favourite of guitarist Brad Delson during the recording process.

If you want to go and see live music click the Ticketmaster logo below to buy your tickets!

The song is a heartfelt ballad that showcases Chester Bennington’s softer vocal side, reminiscent of “Powerless” from “Living Things” and “Shadow of the Day” from “Minutes to Midnight”. While leaning more towards pop than rock, I’ll be generous and call it a pop-rock song. It surpasses half the tracks on its intended album in my opinion, making me wish it had made the cut.

youtube.com/watch?v=HMluqSGag5…

The song’s strong musical accompaniment compliments the vocals, building with intensity as the song progresses, ensuring the lyrics resonate with listeners. The track focuses on the turmoil in relationships with lines such as “We’re pulling apart for no reason” and “Somehow forgot when they told me we hurt the ones we loved”. Every single word of this song holds weight and meaning and Bennington’s delivery is heartfelt making you truly feel the emotions behind the words. This I feel is his best feature and is a unique quality many other singers lack.

Despite my preference for their earlier alt-rock-rap style from albums such as “Hybrid Theory” and “Meteora” this song still captivates me. Whilst the music video, which features previously unreleased footage of the band with Chester, adds a special touch to the overall experience of the song. The band’s other previously unreleased songs “Lost”, “Fighting Myself” and “More the Victim” are more to my taste, but at this point I feel like any new Linkin Park song is a blessing.

Linkin Park fans as well as fans of Bennington’s other bands, “Grey Daze” and “Dead by Sunrise”, are in for a treat with this song. While it’s not my favourite style from the band I still admire the effort and craft put into it. However, I can’t help but long for more presence of Mike Shinoda as I’ve always found the dynamic between the two vocalists to be the highlight of this band.
5/10

Got something to say ? Leave it as a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in this review belong to their respective owners and I or this website does not claim any right over them.

Review written by Fox Reviews Rock

Review edited by Cozzer

As always the song(s) in my reviews are added to my Spotify Playlist find out more about that here as well as on my Spotify Podcast find out more about that here .

Review: Three Days Grace’s New Era at Manchester Concert

The review reflects on an unforgettable concert experience at the O2 Apollo in Manchester, featuring Three Days Grace and Badflower. Despite initial challenges, the night was marked by powerful performances and emotional connections between the two bands. The reviewer praises the dual-vocal approach of Three Days Grace, highlighting their new album as a celebration of…

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

Song Of The Week – Maya – Alessa Moore

Alessa Moore’s latest single, “Maya,” showcases a fusion of garage rock and post-punk with raw, emotional lyrics reflecting accelerationist nihilism. The track balances vulnerability and edge, solidifying Maya’s distinctive place in the alternative music scene. Fans can catch their live performance at Circuit, Kingston Upon Thames, on 24 April 2026.

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

New Rock Roundup Vol 43

The New Rock Roundup is a weekly feature ranking recent rock music releases across various genres. Each entry includes personal insights from the author, Fox, regarding why they enjoy the songs. The post highlights tracks from Florence Black, Seether, Lo Rays, Good Riddance, Cartel, Switchfoot, and Vegaslice, concluding with Fox’s personal ranking.

by Fox Reviews Rock30th Mar 202630th Mar 2026

#Blogging #HardRock #Metal #Music #MusicReview #Review #rock #Single #SongReview #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

Playlist · Fox Reviews Rock · 878 items · 30 saves

^{Fox Reviews Rock (Spotify)}

Måneskin – Honey (Are U Coming?) – (Song Review)

Måneskin, the winners of the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest, have been on a roll since their victory. They have now reached international fame. “Honey (Are U Coming?)” is the third single from the deluxe edition of their fourth album, Rush, following the success of Teatro d’ira Vol.I. The song was released on September 1st, 2023.

open.spotify.com/episode/2S7ZT…

Lead singer (Damiano David) revealed that this song was penned immediately following their last tour, while they were still buzzing with energy from all the traveling. The creative process took place in both London and LA. It’s mind-boggling how they band managed to maintain such high energy levels after a gruelling worldwide tour. Their electrifying stage presence is one of the reasons why catching them live is a must! Which is something I have not been able to do up to now.

If you want to go and see live music click the Ticketmaster logo below to buy your tickets!

The music video seems to have been filmed at night inside a massive cylindrical steel structure. The band as often happens to be the case for Måneskin don’t appear to be wearing all that much which in this case seems foolish as I bet it was freezing! The visuals are captivating with numerous strobe lights and reflections. However, the random handheld video recorder parts could have been omitted. Overall, it’s a fantastic music video, but it doesn’t quite match the excellence of “The Loneliest,” which received an MTV award.

youtube.com/watch?v=HZnNt9nnEh…

The track starts off at a slower tempo, a departure from the usual Måneskin style, before picking up speed to what fans are accustomed to. The guitar (Thomas Raggi) riff is interesting and very solid throughout but for me the bass (Victoria De Angelis) takes the spotlight for the most part. I appreciate massively how the band highlights it, especially during parts where it’s just vocals and bass. The drums (Ethan Torchio), on the other hand, are quite generic and could easily be replaced with a different beat without changing the overall effect.

“Meet me there where it never closes
Meet me there where it’s never hopeless
All is fair in love, oh-oh-oh
Honey, are you coming?”

I absolutely love the chorus, especially when it’s used as backing vocals towards the end of the song. The English vocals are truly top-notch. It’s exciting to see the band transitioning to English for their music, and I hope they keep getting better. It’s interesting how they always mention Italy in their songs, almost like it’s a requirement. As for their over-sexualised image, I’m not sure if it’s their decision or their label’s, but thankfully it doesn’t affect their music at all (although on this occasion I think it’s a little overproduced).

Finally, did you know that Måneskin means Moonlight in Danish? Victoria De Angelis, who is half Danish, suggested this word as their band name. Imagine how incredible it would be to witness their performance at midnight, under a full moon, in a forest. I can’t help but think it would be mesmerizing!

6.5/10

Got something to say ? Leave it as a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in this review belong to their respective owners and I or this website does not claim any right over them.

Review written by Fox Reviews Rock

Review edited by Cozzer

As always the song(s) in my reviews are added to my Spotify Playlist find out more about that here as well as on my Spotify Podcast find out more about that here.

Papa Roach – Leave A Light On (Talk Away The Dark) – (Song Review)

Papa Roach’s 12th number 1 single Leave A Light On (Talk Away The Dark) is a beautiful reminder to be there for your friends. We never know how our loved ones are truly feeling and we need to provide the light in whatever darkness they are facing.

by Fox Reviews Rock5th Jun 202428th Jun 2024

Beyond: Unveiling Corey Taylor’s Evolving Sound

Corey Taylor is back with Beyond , the single from his second solo Album CMFT2. With a video set in the Mojave Desert , ft some of his past personnas its a visual treat. The song is more melodical than his work in Slipknot so if you’re a fan of Stone Sour this is for…

by Fox Reviews Rock29th May 202415th Jul 2024

Bring Me The Horizon – POST HUMAN: NeX GEn (Album Review)

Bring Me The Horizon are back with brand new album POST HUMAN: NeX GEn. Check out my track by track analysis review and discover new songs by the band that you might just love!

by Fox Reviews Rock24th May 20244th Jun 2024

#Album #AlbumReview #Blog #Blogging #HardRock #Maneskin #Metal #Music #MusicReview #Review #rock #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

2024-03-05 18:00:00

Fox Reviews Rock Podcast!

Exciting news! Today marks the release of the Fox Reviews Rock Podcast on Spotify! Now, you can listen to all my latest posts as audio. Whether you prefer listening over reading or you’re simply too busy to read, this won’t be an issue anymore. This unique format allows you to absorb my thoughts and opinions on rock and metal albums in a whole new way. Don’t forget to follow the podcast on Spotify and give it a listen below. I’ll also be including a Spotify link in each of my posts, so make sure to check it out! Lastly, I would greatly appreciate it if you could share the podcast with others.

open.spotify.com/show/4SrtT44S…
#Album #AlbumReview #Blog #Blogging #dIO #FoxReviewsRock #GreenDay #Halestorm #HardRock #Metal #Music #MusicReview #OzzyOsbourne #Podcast #Review #rock #Spotify #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

Podcast · Steven · This is a podcast to give readers of fox reviews rock the chance to listen to my latest album reviews instead. All my podcast episodes are voice overs of posts originally shared on foxreviewsrock.wordpress.com

^Spotify

Albums Of The Year 2025 – 25 – Biffy Clyro – Futique

It has been a great year in the realms of all things rock! What better way to celebrate the brilliant new releases of 2025 by counting down our favourites.

Band Background

Scottish band Biffy Clyro have now released 10 studio albums! This particular album is a play on the words future and antique. I have personally seen them headline Download Festival twice to varying degrees of success.

What’s Good About This Album

The album has an effect balance between all out rock power and true melodic hooks. The piano sections of the album showcase that the band can expand what is Biffy Clyro without losing their identity at the same time. With some really hard topics and those of hope in the lyrics it gives the emotional itch a good scratch too.

Favourite Tracks

Starting softer this song soon foes from piano ballad to full on rock anthem. The lyrics are about toxic love which then lead into hope. The chorus is made for a good drunk sing along and I might do just that.

open.spotify.com/track/31MkFKv…

One of the more powerful tracks on the album True Believer features in your face drums that bring things back to the bands roots. Lyrically it looks into having convictions in your decisions and those you love. A true message of self-belief. The richness of the track will mean that many connect to it.

open.spotify.com/track/4xIxJNV…

Other Albums By This Artist

Only Revolutions

Puzzle

Opposites

Similar Artists You Might Enjoy

Muse, Twin Atlantic, Arcane Roots.

All Rights for the songs used here are retained by the recording artist. This site claims no rights over them.

#Album #Blog #HardRock #Metal #Music #MusicReview #Photography #Review #rock #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

2025-09-11 16:00:00

Download Festival 2025 Review: Standouts, Disappointments & Future Headliners

Introduction

Yet again Download Festival 2025 showcased why it is the foundation of the UK rock and metal scene. Over three days in June the Donington festival attendees were treated to everything from legendary punk, emerging talent and previously passed up on acts! While there might have been the odd moment of disappointment the surprise and triumphant ones more than made up for it.

Friday

SiM

The Japanese metalcore band kicked the festival off with an energy packed set that was anything but following the formula. While many of their fans were there for the theme from Attack On Titan “The Rumbling” the band surprised many with a genre bending display. Especially the inclusion of reggae.

Their constant reminders of being from Japan soon became a running joke between my circle of friends. Mainly because after the 8^th time its like “Come on guys we know you’re from Japan”. Overall though a terrific performance and it set the tone for the entire weekend.

open.spotify.com/track/6k0X05d…

Dirty Honey

Dirty Honey remain a reliable highlight of any festival bill that they should find themselves on. Having seen them multiple times previously I knew what to expect. A tight yet entertaining set, while their shows have become to feel a little similar, at least the new material the American band have released injected a needed freshness.

open.spotify.com/track/7mVYYM1…

Jimmy Eat World

Are there many bands that can boast as many sing-along hits as Jimmy Eat World? There set proved it too with a large number of the spectators knowing all the words. Their song created a chilled, laid back atmosphere. One you could sit down and relax to with a cold beer on a hot day (boy was it hot).

Their live show energy wise isn’t remotely up there with others on the lineup, which at times left the performance feeling a little flat, but it was nice to recharge too.

open.spotify.com/track/6GG73Ji…

Weezer

I think Weezer were one hell of a great booking, an intriguing one at that too! They are a band that I enjoy from time to time, with many hits that I love. But there is just something about them that means I would never personally buy a ticket to their show. So when they were announced I was thrilled.

A festival slot like this was the perfect way to enjoy them! With their set being stacked full of hits and fan favourites they proved to be the perfect warm up for Green Day. Still now that I have seen them, I wouldn’t be rushing out to see their own show. Sorry guys!

open.spotify.com/track/0AxdJGl…

Green Day

One of the undisputed highlights of the entire festival, I challenge anyone who thinks otherwise to tell me why… From the anthems from American Idiot, to the rain soaked “Wake Me Up When September Ends” the crowd were loving it!

Green Day delivered a masterclass in festival headlining and showed that they well and truly still have it. The band commanded the stage and the crowd with ease, ensuring that everyone left with a grin on their face.

While personally I preferred their recent tour where they played American Idiot and Dookie in full. I still felt that the show at Download was different enough to feel fresh and I enjoyed the different songs they played.

open.spotify.com/track/6nTiIhL…

Saturday

Rumours of a surprise Trivium set unfortunately proved false, leaving many disappointed. On the plus side it meant we were already in place for Sophie Lloyd.

Sophie Lloyd

While she might be known by some as the touring guitarist for Machine Gun Kelly, Sophie Lloyd is a tremendous talent on the guitar in her own right. Much more than simply a guitarist for hire. With the rotating guests on vocals her performance was both dynamic and engaging, while obviously showing off her ridiculous skills too!

open.spotify.com/track/7hHlOSd…

Awolnation

A pretty left-field booking Awolnation intrigued me much more than they thrilled. “Sail” was the only reason I had personally heard of them and that really was great live. As was to my surprise the rest of their set. Which was vocal heavy which was something I really was not expecting. A nice twist but I wouldn’t put myself down as a future ticket buyer.

open.spotify.com/track/7ueP5u2…

Don Broco

This really was a polarising set for me. Their big hits landed and then some. Hinting at their potential to climb even further in future years up the Download Lineup. What might however hold them back is that between the hits the other songs were a slight let down. In parts the set felt flat. Still overall a fun and worthwhile watch.

open.spotify.com/track/4yR1YTs…

Mallory Knox

Finally that’s Mallory Knox off my bucket list! Their set was like opening a time capsule of my own personal memories. I enjoyed their set on the 3^rd stage sat on the grass and made sure to take it all in. Sometimes the best festival moments are somewhat low key and in this case it proved to be right.

open.spotify.com/track/2sxVGe2…

Sex Pistols

I wish I did not have to write this. But this was the weekends biggest disappointment by an absolute country mile! From repeatedly halting songs due to crowd management issues, less than courteous fan base, and technical issues.

This set never really got going. Throw in the only real rain (Torrential at that) of the festival and it’s fate was secured. I was really surprised as I love both the Sex Pistols and Frank Carter, but in the end it was more hype than substance.

open.spotify.com/track/5moTxUG…

Sleep Token

The winners of the entire weekend. Fresh off new album “Even In Arcadia” which has done very well, Sleep Token mesmerised the crowd. Both with the music itself but also the amazing stage show and lighting. Their genre bending sound on hits like “Caramel”, “Emergence” and “The Summoning” went down a storm!

I do wish that they had focused a little more on the albums that had got them to where they were, but still what a show! To go from 4^th stage to main stage headliners in such a short space of time I cannot wait to see what the band do next. This truly was a career-defining moment for the band and the Download crowd lapped it up.

open.spotify.com/track/0S38Oso…

Sunday

The Southern River Band

Sometimes you need a little gem to get you through the final day. The Southern River Band were just that. The Australian’s showed both their music prowess but also humour and infectious energy that made them an instant crowd favourite. I found their live show to really outshine their recorded material but have since enjoyed that too! One to watch…

open.spotify.com/track/4LTNGbd…

Jinjer

The Ukrainian band Jinjer have both impressive execution in their music, and strong vocals. But to be completely honest their set felt like more of a warm up for a more proficient band later in the day (Spiritbox). This did make them a harder sell I think to some of the festival goers but there is no denying their talent. As I have seen them twice now and enjoyed them both times perhaps its time I sat down and listened to their back catalogue.

open.spotify.com/track/5t8NXa2…

Alien Ant Farm

If Sex Pistols were a let down on Saturday, then Alien Ant Farm were the Sunday edition! Their sound unfortunately fell flat. Classics like “Movies” and their cover of the Michael Jackson song “Smooth Criminal” went some way to salvage things. The damage had already been done. It is a bit of a running theme at Download Festival that the 2^nd stage sound is somewhat temperamental. It feels harsh to put this down to the band, but nonetheless I left disappointed.

open.spotify.com/track/5z6xHjC…

Spiritbox

One of my most anticipated sets of the entire weekend, and they delivered in spades! Courtney LaPlante’s flawless clean and harsh vocal range shone brightly through what can only be described as a dust storm! The switch between souring high notes to guttural screams is beyond my brain. On record they can be somewhat hit and miss for me personally, some songs just don’t do it. But live the entire band are electric! Honestly if they don’t headline in the next 10 years it is because they have stopped as a band.

open.spotify.com/track/3FI0iAA…

Bullet For My Valentine

While to many the band performing “The Poison” in full might have been a nostalgia laden treat. I had personally just seen it on their tour with Trivium and was hoping for more of a mixture across their body of work. While the one album set worked well in an arena setting, I felt it wasn’t as great in a field. I also really did miss the songs from even the 2^nd or 3^rd album the band had released… And for that “unscheduled encore” come off it all the pyro was set up , why lie? That being said I would never turn down the chance to see Bullet For My Valentine, so please come back soon!

open.spotify.com/track/5pKCDm2…

Korn

Having passed up the chance to see Korn many times, (Actually many, many, many times) I felt compelled this time to see them as they were headlining. I am glad the festival finally forced me into it because boy did they rock and fully justify their slot! While I did not know all the tracks, the hits landed really hard. A great way to close out the weekend and a performance many of their die hard fans loved. My issue is though is that they will now only be seen as a headliner, so it massively limits when we might see them back.

open.spotify.com/track/6W21LNL…

Final Thoughts

Download Festival 2025 had its up and downs. With some acts like Sleep Token, Green Day and Spiritbox blowing me away. While others fell frustratingly short such as Sex Pistols and Alien Ant Farm. That however is the beauty of a festival setting, the surprises and unforgettable moments. In the end it was a weekend packed with variety and nostalgia, with perhaps the odd glimpse of potential future headliners on the way.

All rights to the songs in this post are retained by the recording artists. This site claims no rights over them. All images are taken by Fox Reviews Rock.

#Blog #DownloadFestival #HardRock #Metal #Music #MusicReview #Photography #Review #rock #Writing

The Rumbling

SiM · The Rumbling · Song · 2022

^Spotify

Download Festival 2025 Review: Standouts, Disappointments & Future Headliners

Introduction

Yet again Download Festival 2025 showcased why it is the foundation of the UK rock and metal scene. Over three days in June the Donington festival attendees were treated to everything from legendary punk, emerging talent and previously passed up on acts! While there might have been the odd moment of disappointment the surprise and triumphant ones more than made up for it.

Friday

SiM

The Japanese metalcore band kicked the festival off with an energy packed set that was anything but following the formula. While many of their fans were there for the theme from Attack On Titan “The Rumbling” the band surprised many with a genre bending display. Especially the inclusion of reggae.

Their constant reminders of being from Japan soon became a running joke between my circle of friends. Mainly because after the 8^th time its like “Come on guys we know you’re from Japan”. Overall though a terrific performance and it set the tone for the entire weekend.

open.spotify.com/track/6k0X05d…

Dirty Honey

Dirty Honey remain a reliable highlight of any festival bill that they should find themselves on. Having seen them multiple times previously I knew what to expect. A tight yet entertaining set, while their shows have become to feel a little similar, at least the new material the American band have released injected a needed freshness.

open.spotify.com/track/7mVYYM1…

Jimmy Eat World

Are there many bands that can boast as many sing-along hits as Jimmy Eat World? There set proved it too with a large number of the spectators knowing all the words. Their song created a chilled, laid back atmosphere. One you could sit down and relax to with a cold beer on a hot day (boy was it hot).

Their live show energy wise isn’t remotely up there with others on the lineup, which at times left the performance feeling a little flat, but it was nice to recharge too.

open.spotify.com/track/6GG73Ji…

Weezer

I think Weezer were one hell of a great booking, an intriguing one at that too! They are a band that I enjoy from time to time, with many hits that I love. But there is just something about them that means I would never personally buy a ticket to their show. So when they were announced I was thrilled.

A festival slot like this was the perfect way to enjoy them! With their set being stacked full of hits and fan favourites they proved to be the perfect warm up for Green Day. Still now that I have seen them, I wouldn’t be rushing out to see their own show. Sorry guys!

open.spotify.com/track/0AxdJGl…

Green Day

One of the undisputed highlights of the entire festival, I challenge anyone who thinks otherwise to tell me why… From the anthems from American Idiot, to the rain soaked “Wake Me Up When September Ends” the crowd were loving it!

Green Day delivered a masterclass in festival headlining and showed that they well and truly still have it. The band commanded the stage and the crowd with ease, ensuring that everyone left with a grin on their face.

While personally I preferred their recent tour where they played American Idiot and Dookie in full. I still felt that the show at Download was different enough to feel fresh and I enjoyed the different songs they played.

open.spotify.com/track/6nTiIhL…

Saturday

Rumours of a surprise Trivium set unfortunately proved false, leaving many disappointed. On the plus side it meant we were already in place for Sophie Lloyd.

Sophie Lloyd

While she might be known by some as the touring guitarist for Machine Gun Kelly, Sophie Lloyd is a tremendous talent on the guitar in her own right. Much more than simply a guitarist for hire. With the rotating guests on vocals her performance was both dynamic and engaging, while obviously showing off her ridiculous skills too!

open.spotify.com/track/7hHlOSd…

Awolnation

A pretty left-field booking Awolnation intrigued me much more than they thrilled. “Sail” was the only reason I had personally heard of them and that really was great live. As was to my surprise the rest of their set. Which was vocal heavy which was something I really was not expecting. A nice twist but I wouldn’t put myself down as a future ticket buyer.

open.spotify.com/track/7ueP5u2…

Don Broco

This really was a polarising set for me. Their big hits landed and then some. Hinting at their potential to climb even further in future years up the Download Lineup. What might however hold them back is that between the hits the other songs were a slight let down. In parts the set felt flat. Still overall a fun and worthwhile watch.

open.spotify.com/track/4yR1YTs…

Mallory Knox

Finally that’s Mallory Knox off my bucket list! Their set was like opening a time capsule of my own personal memories. I enjoyed their set on the 3^rd stage sat on the grass and made sure to take it all in. Sometimes the best festival moments are somewhat low key and in this case it proved to be right.

open.spotify.com/track/2sxVGe2…

Sex Pistols

I wish I did not have to write this. But this was the weekends biggest disappointment by an absolute country mile! From repeatedly halting songs due to crowd management issues, less than courteous fan base, and technical issues.

This set never really got going. Throw in the only real rain (Torrential at that) of the festival and it’s fate was secured. I was really surprised as I love both the Sex Pistols and Frank Carter, but in the end it was more hype than substance.

open.spotify.com/track/5moTxUG…

Sleep Token

The winners of the entire weekend. Fresh off new album “Even In Arcadia” which has done very well, Sleep Token mesmerised the crowd. Both with the music itself but also the amazing stage show and lighting. Their genre bending sound on hits like “Caramel”, “Emergence” and “The Summoning” went down a storm!

I do wish that they had focused a little more on the albums that had got them to where they were, but still what a show! To go from 4^th stage to main stage headliners in such a short space of time I cannot wait to see what the band do next. This truly was a career-defining moment for the band and the Download crowd lapped it up.

open.spotify.com/track/0S38Oso…

Sunday

The Southern River Band

Sometimes you need a little gem to get you through the final day. The Southern River Band were just that. The Australian’s showed both their music prowess but also humour and infectious energy that made them an instant crowd favourite. I found their live show to really outshine their recorded material but have since enjoyed that too! One to watch…

open.spotify.com/track/4LTNGbd…

Jinjer

The Ukrainian band Jinjer have both impressive execution in their music, and strong vocals. But to be completely honest their set felt like more of a warm up for a more proficient band later in the day (Spiritbox). This did make them a harder sell I think to some of the festival goers but there is no denying their talent. As I have seen them twice now and enjoyed them both times perhaps its time I sat down and listened to their back catalogue.

open.spotify.com/track/5t8NXa2…

Alien Ant Farm

If Sex Pistols were a let down on Saturday, then Alien Ant Farm were the Sunday edition! Their sound unfortunately fell flat. Classics like “Movies” and their cover of the Michael Jackson song “Smooth Criminal” went some way to salvage things. The damage had already been done. It is a bit of a running theme at Download Festival that the 2^nd stage sound is somewhat temperamental. It feels harsh to put this down to the band, but nonetheless I left disappointed.

open.spotify.com/track/5z6xHjC…

Spiritbox

One of my most anticipated sets of the entire weekend, and they delivered in spades! Courtney LaPlante’s flawless clean and harsh vocal range shone brightly through what can only be described as a dust storm! The switch between souring high notes to guttural screams is beyond my brain. On record they can be somewhat hit and miss for me personally, some songs just don’t do it. But live the entire band are electric! Honestly if they don’t headline in the next 10 years it is because they have stopped as a band.

open.spotify.com/track/3FI0iAA…

Bullet For My Valentine

While to many the band performing “The Poison” in full might have been a nostalgia laden treat. I had personally just seen it on their tour with Trivium and was hoping for more of a mixture across their body of work. While the one album set worked well in an arena setting, I felt it wasn’t as great in a field. I also really did miss the songs from even the 2^nd or 3^rd album the band had released… And for that “unscheduled encore” come off it all the pyro was set up , why lie? That being said I would never turn down the chance to see Bullet For My Valentine, so please come back soon!

open.spotify.com/track/5pKCDm2…

Korn

Having passed up the chance to see Korn many times, (Actually many, many, many times) I felt compelled this time to see them as they were headlining. I am glad the festival finally forced me into it because boy did they rock and fully justify their slot! While I did not know all the tracks, the hits landed really hard. A great way to close out the weekend and a performance many of their die hard fans loved. My issue is though is that they will now only be seen as a headliner, so it massively limits when we might see them back.

open.spotify.com/track/6W21LNL…

Final Thoughts

Download Festival 2025 had its up and downs. With some acts like Sleep Token, Green Day and Spiritbox blowing me away. While others fell frustratingly short such as Sex Pistols and Alien Ant Farm. That however is the beauty of a festival setting, the surprises and unforgettable moments. In the end it was a weekend packed with variety and nostalgia, with perhaps the odd glimpse of potential future headliners on the way.

All rights to the songs in this post are retained by the recording artists. This site claims no rights over them. All images are taken by Fox Reviews Rock.

#Blog #DownloadFestival #HardRock #Metal #Music #MusicReview #Photography #Review #rock #Writing

Ice Nine Kills Releases ‘Meat & Greet’ as Part of 2021 Album Deluxe Edition

Ice Nine Kills, the talented metalcore band from Boston have released “Meat & Greet” as part of the deluxe edition of the 2021 album “Welcome to Horrorwood”. The band’s name comes from the deadly substance in the renowned novel Cats Cradle and they like to infuse their metalcore style with captivating lyrics from beloved horror films in pop culture.

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foxreviewsrock/episodes/Fox-Reviews-Rock-Ep12–Ice-Nine-Kills—Meat–Greet-e2j2kbo

The band thrives on exploring the depths of the human mind. Their mix of metal and horror storytelling is gaining momentum shown by tours with industry goliaths Metallica and Slipknot. As well as their latest album hitting 178 million streams and reaching number 18 in the charts. The horror material is far from being a gimmick to sell albums, the band even hosts their horror convention “The Silver Scream Con”.

Strap yourself into your straight jacket and brace yourself for a musical journey back to the unforgettable moment you first laid eyes on the 1991 Oscar-winning movie Silence of the Lambs. Which features the remarkable Anthony Hopkins as cannibal serial killer Hannibal Lector. The music video for this song is an amazing reimagining of the film and had to be cut down by 19 minutes due to its graphic nature! Fear not though if you want to watch the whole thing you can get an access code by purchasing select merchandise from the band’s website. So, if a spine-tingling experience is what you’re after that’s for you!

youtube.com/watch?v=1YP74fZlLA…

If you want to go and see live music click the Ticketmaster logo below to buy your tickets!

The song has an electrifying start with piano keys setting a rapid pace instantly hypnotizing the listener. Just when you think you have caught your breath from the film’s unforgettable scene of Clarice meeting Hannibal for the first time is skillfully recapped, fully immersing you in the experience. What follows can only be described as an all-out assault on the senses. Clean and scream vocals (Spencer Charnas) pummel you with a sledgehammer before vicious drums (Patrick Galante) and face-melting guitars (Ricky Armellino/ Dan Sugarman) leave you out of breath. The catchy chorus features my favourite lyrics “The silence is circling, like lambs to a slaughter, this dance never ends”. Although it’s slightly odd how it sounds exactly like Alanis Morrisette’s Uninvited (don’t believe me give it a listen and tell me I’m wrong). Just as you thought this song couldn’t get any better the bassist (Joe Occhiuti) comes into his own during the breakdown!

Speaking of the breakdown it features a hilarious easter egg in the form of the lyrics “Put the lotion in the basket” which is a look back at the character Buffalo Bill from the film.

Typically, I wouldn’t include as many lyrics in a review, but in this case, I just had to. The band’s extraordinary storytelling needs to be showcased. Plus, I’m slightly concerned they might plot my demise if I don’t. Here is some of the incredible writing that demonstrates their talents, detailing the captivating exchange between the film’s main characters where Lecter agrees to assist Clarice in capturing Bill.

“No, my darling Agent Starling
These are not just thrill kills
Let my mind help you find the fiend who fits the bill
(Or blood will spill)
Contrast his nasty habit with my refined pallet
(Then tell me who kills in poor taste)
Don’t let a good meal go to waste”

Front man Spencer describes Meat & Greet as the climax of the Horrorwood saga, I for one cannot wait to see what they come up with next. They are a band that seems to be gaining some traction and for the most part, they are simply killing the competition.

9/10

Got something to say ? Leave it as a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in this review belong to their respective owners and I or this website does not claim any right over them.

Review written by Fox Reviews Rock

As always the song(s) in my reviews are added to my Spotify Playlist find out more about that here as well as on my Spotify Podcast find out more about that here .

Review: Three Days Grace’s New Era at Manchester Concert

The review reflects on an unforgettable concert experience at the O2 Apollo in Manchester, featuring Three Days Grace and Badflower. Despite initial challenges, the night was marked by powerful performances and emotional connections between the two bands. The reviewer praises the dual-vocal approach of Three Days Grace, highlighting their new album as a celebration of…

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

Song Of The Week – Maya – Alessa Moore

Alessa Moore’s latest single, “Maya,” showcases a fusion of garage rock and post-punk with raw, emotional lyrics reflecting accelerationist nihilism. The track balances vulnerability and edge, solidifying Maya’s distinctive place in the alternative music scene. Fans can catch their live performance at Circuit, Kingston Upon Thames, on 24 April 2026.

by Fox Reviews Rock31st Mar 202631st Mar 2026

New Rock Roundup Vol 43

The New Rock Roundup is a weekly feature ranking recent rock music releases across various genres. Each entry includes personal insights from the author, Fox, regarding why they enjoy the songs. The post highlights tracks from Florence Black, Seether, Lo Rays, Good Riddance, Cartel, Switchfoot, and Vegaslice, concluding with Fox’s personal ranking.

by Fox Reviews Rock30th Mar 202630th Mar 2026

#Album #AlbumReview #Blogging #HardRock #IceNineKills #Metal #Metallica #Music #MusicReview #Review #rock #Slipknot #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

2024-03-05 18:00:00

Fox Reviews Rock Podcast!

Exciting news! Today marks the release of the Fox Reviews Rock Podcast on Spotify! Now, you can listen to all my latest posts as audio. Whether you prefer listening over reading or you’re simply too busy to read, this won’t be an issue anymore. This unique format allows you to absorb my thoughts and opinions on rock and metal albums in a whole new way. Don’t forget to follow the podcast on Spotify and give it a listen below. I’ll also be including a Spotify link in each of my posts, so make sure to check it out! Lastly, I would greatly appreciate it if you could share the podcast with others.

open.spotify.com/show/4SrtT44S…
#Album #AlbumReview #Blog #Blogging #dIO #FoxReviewsRock #GreenDay #Halestorm #HardRock #Metal #Music #MusicReview #OzzyOsbourne #Podcast #Review #rock #Spotify #Writing

Fox Reviews Rock

Podcast · Steven · This is a podcast to give readers of fox reviews rock the chance to listen to my latest album reviews instead. All my podcast episodes are voice overs of posts originally shared on foxreviewsrock.wordpress.com

^Spotify