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Let me preface this review by saying I am an 80's kid through and through but I came of age in the 90's and that decade is responsible for every bit of influence music has had on my life. I fondly remember watching MTV for hours absorbing every second of every video (yes they did once actually play videos) and sitting with my finger on the record button of the vcr every time a new video premiered so I could watch it again and again. Needless to say I have a deep love for all the music of that era but from 95-99 more than anything. 

I have been waiting for 90's music to make a come back for years now since the turn of the century has with a few notable exceptions been dismal for ears around the world to say the least. When the Summerland Tour was announced earlier this year it was like a prayer had finally been answered. 

This past Tuesday, August 7th, 10 Years released their highly anticipated fourth LP and independent label debut entitled “Minus The Machine”. The new record, which was handled by the band from beginning to end without any oversight or intervention, was recorded at drummer-turned-guitarist-turned-drummer Brian Vodinh’s home studio this past winter & spring. The follow-up the 2010’s critically acclaimed “Feeding The Wolves”, “Minus The Machine” is a natural progression for the Knoxville-based group- and demonstrates their unbelievable potential for growth.

Whenever the topic of German thrash metal comes up, Germany's Kreator is always mentioned. Possibly the most successful European thrash band ever, Kreator has kept their thrash-metal style while changing it up a bit. With all of this considered, Kreator delivered on their newest album: "Phantom Antichrist".

Ridge Hill, which opened last year with a limited number of business open, is growing by the day. With dozens of shopping options and a wide variety of eating establishments, it seems the only thing that Ridge Hill could be lacking is live entertainment. The management seems to be aware of that and has scheduled a series of live, outdoor concerts that will run throughout the summer and will always be free to all in attendance.

On Wednesday night, Knoxville, Tennessee’s 10 Years brought their “Minus The Machine” tour to the Starland Ballroom in Sayrevile, NJ. This string of North American headlining dates features Fair To Midland & Kyng as support and finds the band touring in support of their 4^th record and independent label debut.