If you are a record label, publicist, or an unsigned band and wish to send your submissions, promotional materials, and/or press releases, you may contact me via email or send your materials directly to me.
Craig Hartranft
dangerdog.com
320 Arch Street
Ephrata, PA 17522 USA
Generally, I try to get to submissions immediately. I will first give your disc a spin to determine whether it falls into the dangerdog.com criteria (see below). If it does, I will make every effort to review it promptly, often reviewing it on or before its release date. If it does not, I will inform you of my decision and offer a polite thank you for your submission.
[top]Heavy Metal (you know what it is when you hear it!)dangerdog.com will generally NOT review:
Symphonic/Gothic Metal
Progressive Metal/Rock
Power Metal and its various sub-genres
Hard Rock
AOR
Sleaze/Glam Metal/Rock
and some Melodic Death Metal (i.e. Children Of Bodom)
Strict Death/Black Metal[top]
Grindcore/Hardcore/Metalcore
Nu-Metal/Rap Metal/Funk Metal
Ambient Metal
Math Metal
I'm a band member, and you screwed up some info about our band, will you correct this?
Absolutely. If I have made a mistake or have misrepresented you in any way, I sincerely apologize. Please contact me with any corrections. I will make things right to the best of my ability. As much as I attempt to do thorough research, I simply make mistakes. Additionally, I enjoy writing, but I'm a terrible proofreader. I do this site completely on my own with no backup. I can easily screw up in my reporting.
Why Don't You Review American Metal?
The short answer: I do and have!
The long answer: I do, but only when it fits the dangerdog criteria of melodic metal and rock. Most American metal sucks, including the so-called 'new wave of American heavy metal' (NWOAHM) which includes such acts as Lamb Of God and a host of others. Most American metal bands can't find a melody if it was staring them in the face, most of their guitarist don't know how to solo, and most of their singers can only do one thing: growl dirty vocals. This is not the heritage of metal. At this time, I have found that there is some, often very little, American metal that fits my aforementioned criteria.
[top]5.0 Excellent
A most worthy addition to its genre and the band's catalogue; for established bands: this means that they have done at least two things: 1) maintained or exceeded the consistency and professionalism of their previous work in terms of musicianship and craftsmanship and/or 2) have also brought something new and original to the table. It is a dynamic and thrilling album that you would 1) play over and over and, 2) recommend to your friends without hesitation.
For new bands, this means they have done the near impossible: they have exceeded expectations. The combination of superb talent, creative originality, fine arrangements and respect of the genre have produced a true diamond. Let's only hope they can avoid the sophomore jinx.
4.5 Great
All the elements you would expect in the music genre are found on the album. In addition, there are also strong clues of originality or ground-breaking creativity beyond their previous efforts. Flaws in musicianship, song arrangement, production are evident but extremely subtle. They are easily overlooked because of the consistency and proficiency of the work.
This is the most common rating for established bands that have shown consistency and perseverance over the course of their careers.
4.0 Very Good
All the things you would expect of the band in its genre; there is little or no ground-breaking advances, yet they prove once again their proficiency. For new acts: they get it; they understand what they want to do, how to do it, and do it well; however, there is room for improvement: they have promise.
3.5 Above Average
Good effort in its genre; strong hints of creativity and originality; musicianship and craftsmanship shows great promise; worth keeping your eye on and even possibly adding to your album collection, especially if you are a fan of the band or genre. However, the effort is hindered in some obvious way such as muddy production or predictable arrangements.
3.0 Average
Good but seldom breaks new ground in its genre; musicianship and/or song craftsmanship hindered in some significant way; yet with time and effort could advance advance in the genre. But ultimately, after one listen your response would be: 'there is nothing new under the sun.' Buy? This is where we say musical taste is ultimately a personal thing: it's up to you!
2.0 Below Average
Extremely derivative, lacks originality and is probably being done better by another band or artist. Don't waste your money unless you are a diehard fan of the artist or band.
1.0 Shit
Only worth the plastic it has pressed on. Unless, of course, you are a fan of the band. But then I would say you are severely delusional and need of psychological help.