Special Ops

"Like Special Ops, the video kicks ass, gives no quarter and takes no prisoners... Special Ops has it going on! “Baby Take It All” is real rock and roll: raw, arrogant and in your face. This is a great song and an excellent video. I like it!" - Huffington post

"As seen by the music video above, these guys bring the timeless heavy rock groove of bands like Monster Magnet, and Eagles of Death Metal, so you're know you're in for a good time." - metalinjection.net

"the remarkable Salt...the reason to listen to this ep and get to know Canadian rockers." - metaleyes.iyezine.com

"These dudes use a mix of vintage and modern gear, from classic Charvel guitars to custom Warwick fretless basses. As their guitarist and singer AK Johnson says, “We’re somewhat of gearholics”. Sounds like they’ll be right at home here." - geargods.net

​"Their creative impulse is one part measured criticism, one part unadulterated rage... Their albums reflect as much, reveling in social critiques that relent only when A.K.’s singing dissolves into frustrated screams. The single is their first step towards a brighter, more radio-friendly sound, yet still maintains their throaty, hard rock edge." - http://www.alternativeaddiction.com

“Special Ops has my attention, and they should have yours, too. They’ve got it going on! We can only hope they get down to the U.S. for a tour soon and, hopefully, to the Left Coast. Excellent stuff!" - Huffington Post

"Montreal Rockers SPECIAL OPS Have Their Own TOP 10 Ways to Survive a Tour [Exclusive]" - puregrainaudio.com

"SPECIAL OPS, QUEBEC’S CONTRIBUTION TO THE ROCK WORLD IS BEYOND EXCEPTIONAL! ...Not only was the sound stunningly amazing, but it went a good distance to show the band’s fun-loving attitude they have towards each other, and their fans. These guys are the true definition of what it means to be music artists and performers." - popitrecords.net

"A refreshing cut in an oversped genre, 'Dead Are Calling' calls on gorgeous vocal talents and original instrumental stylings to better engage the listener." - The Akademia

"This eclectic, hard rock band is “creeping” into the rock mainstream media one powerful vocal barrage at a time." - groovytracks.com

​“The new release is a sweet mix of thumping rhythmic, catchy vibrations and unparalleled musical talent thought lost to the world of synthetic beats." - buzzfeed

" you need to catch them live to hear any of their new material, and being fuelled by their want to succeed, their music sounds better than ever." - montrealrocks

"Drawing on rich musical roots, personal instinct and a healthy dose of alternative rock, Special Ops brings a style all their own- and fans of their new single ‘Dead Are Calling’ all across the world are loving it." - marquix.tv

Aug 18, 2010 - Pit Stories: "The Night The Stage Wanted To Eat Us"
- http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=58984

Aug 1, 2010 - Special Ops Post Health Update on Bassist's Battle With Cancer?
- http://hangout.altsounds.com/news/120577-special-ops-post-health-update-on-bassists-battle-with-cancer.html

June 29, 2010 - Kamloops # 8 of Top 30 on CFBX
http://www.earshot-online.com/charts/cfbx.cfm?dWeekOfID=2010-06-29

June 18, 2010 - The Banff Crag & Canyon
http://www.banffcragandcanyon.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=2624075

June 17, 2010 - See Magazine - Edmonton - Special Ops on a Mission
- http://www.seemagazine.com/article/music/music-feature/ops-0617/

June 17, 2010 - The New Review - Special Ops Giveaway
- http://thenewreview.net/giveaways/giveaway-special-ops-through-the-heart-of-the-infidel

June 15, 2010 - Grande Prairie Daily Herald Tribune - Special Ops working through cancer scare
- http://www.dailyheraldtribune.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=2619438

June 10, 2010 - CFJC Channel 7 – Midday Show – Kamloops, BC - Special Ops performance - 12pm local time. - http://www.cfjctv.com/
June 9, 2010 - Thorny Bleeder Records Holds Vancouver Showcase With Quartered, Special Ops and Black Hat Villain - http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=56714

June 5, 2010 - Special Ops Posts Tour Diary and More Tour Dates
- http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=56536

June 2, 2010 – Look Kamloops Issue #137 – Front Cover - (Print) 1,000 issues distributed - http://lookkamloops.com/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_download&gid=67&Itemid=55

May 28, 2010 – Yahoo News - http://ca.entertainment.yahoo.com/s/25052010/67/special-ops-soldiering-bassist-battles-cancer.html

May 28, 2010 – Edmonton Metro - Metro - Special Ops soldiering on as bassist battles cancer
- http://www.metronews.ca/edmonton/local/article/533877--special-ops-soldiering-on-as-bassist-battles-cancer

May 28, 2010 - Brazil - Get your World Cup on with Special Ops !!! – Radio Promotion with MetalMilitia.com.br - http://ww2.weblocal.com.br/clientes/metalmilitia.com.br/form-promocao-bolao-fase1.php

May 26, 2010 - Photo Essay: The Rebel Reviewer Checks Out Special Ops
- http://rockandrollreport.com/photo-essay-the-rebel-reviewer-checks-out-special-ops/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheRockAndRollReport+%28The+Rock+and+Roll+Report%29

May 26, 2010 - Banana Peel Radio Interview - http://www.bananapeelradio.com/special.htm

May 25, 2010 – The Province – (Vancouver) – show mention - http://www.theprovince.com/could+Leos/3067620/story.html

May 2010 - Special Ops - May 2010 - Canadian Musician (Print – Distributed Nationally Across Canada) – Akbar Johnson Interview - pg 11
- http://www.canadianmusician.com/online-may-jun-10/index.php

May 21, 2010 - Special Ops - Live n Loud Magazine - Show Review
http://livenloudmagazine.com/magazine.php?id=904

May 9, 2010 - Global Ent Mag Interview -
http://t2010.globalentertainmentmag.com/SpecialOps.html

May 9, 2010 – CashBox Magazine Canada - http://cashboxcanada.ca/special-ops-invade-through-heart-infidel-canada-us-tour-dates-presented-rockstarweeklycom

May 6, 2010 – Weekly Surge – (Print) - Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
- http://www.thesunnews.com/2010/05/06/1458672/pod-picks-for-may-6-2010.html

May 6, 2010 - Special Ops Announces North American Tour - http://www.hotindienews.com/2010/05/06/1022954

April 29, 2010 - Special Ops Announces North American Tour - http://rockandrollreport.com/special-ops-kick-off-north-american-through-the-heart-of-the-infidel-tour/

April 24, 2010 - Special Ops Announces North American Tour - http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=55288

April 21, 2010 – (Vancouver) Who wants Free Music! From Hevy D Popcorn and The Province of Special Ops

http://www.theprovince.com/entertainment/music/downloads/index.html

http://hevyd.ca/music.php

April 20 2010 – (National - Canada) Explore Music Radio Show - Five Songs You Gotta Hear for April 20 2010
- http://www.exploremusic.com/explore-music-radio/2010-04-20/Five-Songs-You-Gotta-Hear-for-April-20-2010

“Pressure” by Special Ops

Song number two on today’s list is from Special Ops. Great name. They’re from Montreal and have a third studio album entitled “Through The Heart of the Infidel”. And it was produced by metal expert Glen Robinson (a guy who has worked with everyone from AC/DC to Gwar). The first single is called “Pressure” and definitely needs your attention.

April 16, 2010 – Detroit Underground Scene Music Examiner – Special Ops is coming to I-Rock - http://www.examiner.com/underground-scene-in-detroit/special-ops-is-coming-to-the-i-rock-nightclub

April 7, 2010 - Special Ops Announces North American Tour - http://www.rockstarweekly.com/special-ops-annouce-north-american-tour.html

April 2, 2010 - Amiral Guitars Proudly Announce Their Sponsorship of Special Ops Akbar Johnson - http://amiralguitars.com/?section=news&trim=article&id=8
April 2010 – The Gate Music Magazine (Detroit) –
COVER STORY of Magazine - Interview Feature - www.thegatemusicmagazine.com –
PDF - http://www.divshare.com/download/11095187-9c7

March 26, 2010 - Special Ops and Surine Basses Announce New Sponsorship - http://www.myspace.com/opsmission/blog?page=4
March 16, 2010 – MetalUnderground.com - Tales From The Pit: The Extended Crowd Surf and Wipe Out - http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=54017

March 14, 2010 – TheNewReview.net – NEWS – Special Ops – Stream New Track http://thenewreview.net/news/special-ops-stream-new-track

March 8, 2010 – Daytime Ottawa – TV Morning Show – Live Performance – Rogers TV Channel 22

Feb 24, 2010 - The Campus - Interview - http://thebucampus.ca/2010/02/music-%E2%80%98beats%E2%80%99-disease/

Feb 24, 2010 - The Campus - Sherbrooke - Album review - http://thebucampus.ca/2010/02/special-ops%E2%80%99-%E2%80%9Cthrough-the-heart-of-the-infidel%E2%80%9D-more-than-just-an-album/

Feb 23, 2010 - Special Ops Announce New Sponsorship With MRP Drums - http://www.rockstarweekly.com/content/view/1477/149/

Feb 23, 2010 - Heavy Metal Music Association of Canada - FEATURED CANADIAN METAL BAND/ARTIST OF THE DAY: 2010 - Special Ops - Monster In Me - http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=48924476&blogId=529427304

Feb 22, 2010 - Metal From Milan Metal Show - http://www.divshare.com/download/10568720-d9a

Feb 18, 2010 - Hour - Montreal - http://hour.ca/news/babylonpq.aspx?iIDArticle=19340

Jan 30, 2010 - WeLoveMetal.com - Interview - http://www.welovemetal.com/specialops.html

Jan 25, 2010 - WeLoveMetal.com - Review - http://www.welovemetal.com/

Jan 25, 2010 - MetalUnderground.com - News - http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=52363&comments=1

Jan 23, 2010 - Examiner.com - Special Ops wins TEMA Award for video of "Pressure" and announces tour dates- http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-34082-Hollywood-Music-Examiner~y2010m1d22-Special-Ops-wins-TEMA-Award-for-video-of-Pressure-and-announces-tour-dates#

Jan 22, 2010 - BreakingTomorrow.com - News - http://breakingtomorrow.com/articles.php?page=articles&language=en&articles=46&options=text

Jan 22, 2010 - Altsounds.com - News - Infantry rockers SPECIAL OPS invade Quebec and Ontario - http://hangout.altsounds.com/news/114306-infantry-rockers-special-ops-invade-quebec-and-ontario.html

Jan 21, 2010 - Interview - Outbound Music / The Big Rock Show @ 12pm EST on Jan 21st: *Headbanger Mix* - http://www.ratpakrecordsamerica.com/bigrockshow.cfm

Jan 13, 2010 - Altsounds.com - News - SPECIAL OPS reveal robot names, tour dates and tema award win - http://hangout.altsounds.com/news/114073-special-ops-reveal-robot-names-tour-dates-and-tema-award-win.html

Jan 11, 2010 - L.A.Beat - Special Ops melds the rock - http://labeat.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=356:special-ops-melds-the-rock&catid=37:cd-reviews&Itemid=61

Dec, 4 2009 - The Metal Deli Podcast - http://www.bigcontact.com/themetaldeli/the-metal-deli-49

December 2009 Issue - The Portal Magazine -Pg 41-44 - http://www.theportalmagazine.com/issues/december2009/index.html

Dec 1, 2009 - News Coverage for PureGrainAudio.com - Contest -

http://www.hour.ca/music/music_news.aspx?iIDArticle=15743&rssIDArticle=6148

http://www.ottawaxpress.ca/music/music_news.aspx?iIDArticle=15743&rssIDArticle=6148

http://www.rockstarweekly.com/content/view/1255/206/

http://www.mytelus.com/music/news_details.do?id=857034

http://www.cosmosgaming.com/?id=1152017

http://www.einnews.com/canada/newsfeed-sherbrooke-quebec

Dec 1,2009 - PureGrainAudio.com - Contest - http://puregrainaudio.com/contests/special-ops-contest

Nov 26, 2009 - CIFA 104.1FM - Good Time Metal Oldies -Saulnierville, NS - Airplay

November 20, 2009 The Grind - Punkradiocast.com - Airplay

November Issue 2009 - Skunk Magazine - Album Review - 80,000 Print distributed -
"If straight up rock is your thing then Special Ops is a band you should keep in mind. The band's third release is a lesson for any rock band thinking of changing style - rock still reigns supreme." Skunk Magazine

Nov 9, 2009 - Xplosive Metal - Live Photos from Indie week Performance - http://x-plosiveentertainment.com/xplosivemetal/index.php/photo-gallery?func=viewcategory&catid=63

Nov 4, 2009 - CKCU - Ottawa - Radio Interview - Pure Radio Kaos

Oct 21, 2009 - CISM 89.3FM - Montreal - Interview - http://cism2.cism.umontreal.ca/128/20091021.22.00-00.00.mp3

Oct 6, 2009 - Special Ops - Emily Featured in Annabelle Cosmetics Promotional Video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooTJ06fjnCE

Oct 5, 2009 - MusicWaves (France) - Album review - http://www.musicwaves.fr/frmChronique.aspx?PRO_ID=4789

Oct 1, 2009 - Indie Week Blog - Akbar answers 10 Questions - http://blog.indieweek.com/2009/10/01/270/

Sept 25, 2009 - MetalUniverse.net - http://www.musikuniverse.net/nouvelles.php?id_nouvelle=6094

Sept 23, 2009 - Glitzine.net - Interview - http://www.glitzine.net/intervjuer/specialops_interview.htm

Sept 20, 2009 - PureGrainAudio.com - Indie Week News - http://www.puregrainaudio.com/news/special-ops-play-indie-week-2009-release-video

Sept 19, 2009 - TheNewReview.net - Video Post - http://thenewreview.net/news/special-ops-release-new-video-pressure

Sept 16, 2009 - Metal-Observer - Album Review - http://www.metal-observer.com/articles.php?lid=1&sid=6&id=16661

Sept 12, 2009 - Xplosive Metal - Interview - http://x-plosiveentertainment.com/xplosivemetal/index.php/interviews/255-specialopsint

Sept 10, 2009 - Glasswerk (UK) - Album Review - http://www.glasswerk.co.uk/reviews/national/8503

Sept 9 2009 - Metal Underground Review - http://www.metalunderground.com/reviews/details.cfm?releaseid=2586

September 9, 2009 - McGill Tribune - http://media.www.mcgilltribune.com/media/storage/paper234/news/2009/09/09/AE/Special.Ops.Make.Hard.Rock.Out.Of.Hardship-3766240.shtml

September 3, 2009 - Here N.B. Weekly Moncton - http://herenb.canadaeast.com/music/article/780155

September 6, 2009 - Altsounds.com - News - http://hangout.altsounds.com/news/110667-special-ops-add-to-their-ranks-best-metal-nomination-at-new-music-awards.html

Aug 31, 2009 - SPECIAL OPS ADD TO THEIR RANKS - BEST METAL NOMINATION AT NEW MUSIC AWARDS - coverage
http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=47874

http://www.bravewords.com/news/121023

http://twitter.com/metalherald/statuses/3694898146

http://www.puregrainaudio.com/news/special-ops-nominated-for-best-metal-at-new-music-awards

Aug 27, 2009 - Ottawa Xpress (Weekly) Interview - http://www.ottawaxpress.ca/music/music.aspx?iIDArticle=18135 -

Aug 26, 2009 - CHUO -89.1FM - Ottawa - Interview - http://www.dougralph.com/doyouhearwhatihear/index.php?we_lv_start_DYHWIH=5

Aug 23, 2009 - Hour (Montreal Weekly) - http://www.hour.ca/music/music_news.aspx?iIDArticle=15743&rssIDArticle=2521

Aug 23, 2009 - My Telus.com - News - http://www.mytelus.com/music/news_details.do?id=834202

Aug 19, 2009 - PureGrain Audio.com - News - Pressure Teaser Video - http://www.puregrainaudio.com/news/special-ops-release-pressure-video-teaser-for-thiurd-studio-album

Aug 19, 2009 - Altsounds.com - News - Pressure Teaser Video - http://hangout.altsounds.com/news/110224-special-ops-release-pressure-video-teaser-for-third-studio-album.html

Aug 16, 2009 - Fazer Magazine - Interview with Akbar - http://www.fazermagazine.com/2009/08/16/an-interview-with-akbar-johnson-of-special-ops-august-3rd-2009/

Aug 16, 2009 - Fazer Magazine - Album review - Through The Heart of The Infidel - http://www.fazermagazine.com/2009/08/16/special-ops-through-the-heart-of-the-infidel-review/

Aug 14, 2009 - CHUO 89.1FM - Ottawa - Metal Canvas - "Incredible album! It's a dynamic audio attack that is fueled by the deep tones of a solid rhythm unit coupled with a dazzling display of musicality from a number of genres, such as the jazzy interlude within the song "Amber". Special Ops "Through the Heart of an Infidel" is a vibrant and vital album to be added to everyone's playlist, ya gotta check them out live when they storm through your area!- CHUO 89.1 FM � Metal Canvas


Aug 13, 2009 - Confront Magazine - Album Review 8/10 - http://www.confrontmagazine.com/web/2009/08/12/special-ops-and-the-winds-of-plague/

Aug 13, 2009 - Melodic.net - Album review - http://www.melodic.net/reviewsOne.asp?revnr=7916

Aug 12 - RockstarWeekly - Interview - http://www.rockstarweekly.com/content/view/717/151/

Aug 5 - News Release - CABARET - SEPT. 12th - SPECIAL OPS LAUNCH "THROUGH THE HEART OF THE INFIDEL" - http://ashermedia.fanbridge.com/campaigns/show.php?id=542208&sid=75340666


July 31, 2009 - Uber Rock - http://www.uberrock.co.uk/hell-is-gig-shaped/46-july-hell/29-special-ops.html

July 31, 2009 - RockStar Weekly - Get Your Chance to Win An Exclusive CD from Special Ops - http://www.rockstarweekly.com/content/view/500/182

July 27, 2009 - SPECIAL OPS Strike Downsview Park August 3rd For U Turn Charity Fundraiser - http://www.puregrainaudio.com/news/special-ops-strike-downsview-park-august-3rd-for-u-turn-charity-fundraiser

July 2009 � Overdose TV � Promotional CD Giveaway � www.overdosetv.com

June 8, 2009 BandWagon Magazine Interview - http://www.bandwagonmagazine.com/specialops.html

May 13, 2009 � Rock and Roll Report Podcast # 52 Downloaded by 1,000+ subscribers
http://rockandrollreport.com/rock-and-roll-report-podcast-52-you-blow-my-mind/
May 5, 2009 � RockandRollReport TV � Posted Emily Video � http://rockandrollreport.com/rock-and-roll-report-tv-special-ops-emily/
May 4, 2009 Rock and Roll Report Radio Interview - http://www.rockandrollreport.com/?s=ckut
RockandRollReport

May 4, 2009 � CJLO 1690 AM � Montreal � We Are Canadian Show � �Pressure� played - http://www.cjlo.com/Shows/canadian/playlistDetails.php?PID=9250&month=may&year=2009&showID=151

May 2, 2009 � CJAD 800 AM � Montreal � Mose Persico Show � Interview w/ Special Ops http://www.divshare.com/download/7319764-54c

May 1, 2009 � Breaking Tomorrow.com - http://www.breakingtomorrow.com/articles.php?page=articles&language=en&articles=16&options=text

April 27, 2009 � RockandRollReport.com � Special Ops Band of The Week � http://www.rockandrollreport.com/the-rock-and-roll-report-band-of-the-week-is-special-ops/

April 17, 2009 � RockAssDick Blog - http://rockassdick.blogspot.com/2009/04/special-ops-through-heart-of-infidel.html

April 26, 2009 � InideEzine http://www.indieezine.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1269&Itemid=28

April 22, 2009 � Altsounds.com - http://hangout.altsounds.com/news/106991-special-ops-new-single-now-on-myspace.html

April 18, 2009 � CINQ FM 102.3, Radio Centreville � Montreal � Earth Lounge - http://media.podcastingmanager.com/88741-85209/Media/cinq_earth_lounge_p115_2009_04_18_velo_libre_POINT_ST_CHARLES.mp3?ref=rss

April 16, 2009 � Metal Universe.net - http://www.metaluniverse.net/nouvelles.php?id_nouvelle=5212

April 16, 2009 � Breaking Tomorrow.com - http://www.breakingtomorrow.com/articles.php?page=articles&language=en&articles=14&options=text

April 16, 2009 � PureGrainAudio.com - http://www.puregrainaudio.com/news/special-ops-recording-with-producer-glen-robinson-new-single-on-myspace

April 15, 2009 � Melodic.net � http://www.melodic.net/newsOne.asp?newsId=13039








BLANKFEST QUEBEC - performed on Feb 21, 2009 - MEDIA COVERAGE -

Feb 17, 2009 � Montreal Mirror � Readership - 287,000




































CBC Radio Homerun - Montreal � Feb 20, 2009 � song �Emily� played at 5:30pm

CHOQ.FM � Montreal - Feb 17, 2009 � Interview � 6:30pm

CKUT Radio � Montreal � Feb 9, 2009 � Interview - Rock and Roll Report 10pm � Interview


HMTV CANADA � INTERVIEW � FEB 10, 2009 �

HMTV audio interview - http://hmtvdjtina.hmtvcanada.com/HMTVCanadaInterviews/HMTVCanadaInterviewsSpecialOps.mp3

HMTV Special Ops page -
http://hmtvdjtina.hmtvcanada.com/SpecialOps.html






















PUREGRAIN AUDIO � PHASE 2: AMIDST THE MADNESS � ALBUM REVIEW 9/10 � JANUARY 27, 2009
http://www.puregrainaudio.com/reviews/special-ops1
PUREGRAINAUDIO.COM � CD GIVEAWAY � SPECIAL OPS � PHASE 2: AMIDST THE MADNESS - DECEMBER 15, 2008
http://www.puregrainaudio.com/contests/special-ops











EXPLOSIVE METAL PODCAST DECEMBER 7, 2008
http://www.xplosivemetal.com/ - UNDER PODCASTS




SPECIAL OPS MENTION IN FAZER MAGAZINE INTERVIEW W/ SID CYCLE DECEMBER 4, 2008
http://www.fazer.ca/2008/12/13/psycho-sid-interview-sid%E2%80%99s-cycle-psycho-show-toronto-ontario-dec-4th-2008/

Sympatico/MSN � Pick Up The Pieces � Special Ops � Posted December 2008








CSCR � Toronto - CHARTS DECEMBER 1st , 2008
www.fusionradio.com
Special Ops #2 on CSCR Loud Charts! For Week of December 1st! 14th on Top 200
CSCR Loud Rock

1. Toxic Holocaust - An Overdose Of Death - Relapse
2. Special Ops - Phase II : Amidst The Madness - NDG Entertainment
3. Cynic - Traced In Air - Season Of Mist
4. Order Of The Unnead - Order Of The Unnead - Earache
5. Bloodbath - The Fathomless Mastery - Peaceville
6. Behemoth - Ezkaton - Metal Blade
7. Bring Me The Horizon - Suicide Season - Epitaph
8. Brother Von Doom - Relentless - Dovecote
9. Dir En Grey - Uroboros - The End
10. Kill What I Adore - Whatever It Takes - Metal Blade

CSCR Radio 200 Charts for the Week of December 1st, 2008
Artist Album Label
1 Block Party Intimacy Atlantic
2 Pennywise Reason to Believe Interscope
3 The Waking Eyes Holding onto Whatever it is Coalition
4 Kaiser Chiefs Off with their Heads Universal
5 Any Winehouse Rehab Island
6 Pitbull En Nuestro Corazon Independent
7 Mike Mictlan and Lazerbeak Hand over fist Doomtree
8 Rise Against Appeal To Reason Fat Wreck Chords
9 Gym Class Heroes As Cruel as School Children Fueled By Ramen
10 Toxic Holocaust An Overdose of Death Relapse
11 Kathleen Turner Overdrive Marauders! Wolves! Scavengers! Party Undergroundoperation
12 Josh Martinez World famous Sex buffet Camobear
13 Offspring Rise and Fall, Rage and Grace Columbia
14 Special Ops Phase 2: Admist The Madness Independent
15 Madlib WLIB AM: King of the Wigflip Rapster
16 Bring me the Horizon Suicide Season Epitaph
17 Pieces of Peace Pieces of peace Cali-Tex
18 J Dilla Ruff Draft Stones Throw
19 R.E.M. Accelerate Warner
20 N.E.R.D. Seeing Sounds Interscope
21 Flo Flo Flo Flo Independent
22 Murs Murs For President Warner
23 Five Finger Death Punch The Way of the Fist Firm Music
24 Albert Hammond Jr. Como Te llama Black Seal
25 Slipknot All hope is gone Roadrunner
26 Aberdeen Disasters Independent
27 Metallica Death Magnetic Warner
28 Kevin Rudolf In The City Cash Money
29 Ghetto It's Nuthin Stay Focused
30 Guns N' Roses Chinese Democracy Geffen


ALTERNATIVE ADDICTION � NEXT BIG THING � DECEMBER 2, 2008
MUSIC POSTED � ANGER IS CREEPING � PHASE 2: AMIDST THE MADNESS
http://www.alternativeaddiction.com/unknownbands/nextbigthing/player/player.asp?id=753






















THE DAILY GLEANER � FREDERICTON, NEW BRUNWICK � TOUR COVERAGE
NOVEMBER 17, 2008



MUZIK MOVEMENTZ � OCTOBER 17, 2009 � NEWS COVERAGE
http://www.themovementz.com/content/view/220/


























UNCHARTED SOUNDS � VIDEO INTERVIEW & ONLINE INTERVIEW � OCTOBER 2008
www.unchartedsounds.com



INTERVIEW � OVERDOSETV.COM � OCTOBER 2008
http://www.overdosetv.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=15&Itemid=32

LIVE VIDEO OF PERFORMANCE IN OTTAWA POSTED ON OVERDOSE TV
http://www.overdosetv.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=314

OVERDOSETV � CONTEST FOR SPECIAL OPS CD�S AND T-SHIRTS
http://overdosetv.com/images/concours/special_ops-concours-interview-videos.jpg




SPECIAL OPS � PHOENIX CONCERT THEATRE (Toronto) � OCT. 10, 2008
FACEBOOK FAN RESPONSE - Prayers for Waldo in Special OPS
http://mcgill.facebook.com/group.php?gid=16311396321



CBC RADIO 3 �
http://radio3.cbc.ca/




OCTOBER 2008 � NEWS COVERAGE � HARDTIMES.CA
http://hardtimes.ca/node/7185




OCTOBER 2008 � NEWS COVERAGE � CANADIAN MUSIC SCENE.COM
http://www.thecanadianmusicscene.com/


OCTOBER 15, 2008 � ALTSOUNDS.COM �
PHASE 2 AMIDST THE MADNESS ALBUM REVIEW

http://hangout.altsounds.com/reviews/102072-special-ops-phase-2-amidst-madness.html



OCTOBER 14, 2008 � FRIDAE TV INTERVIEW WITH SPECIAL OPS

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRvteKZTiL0 - PART 1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mm8bSgIyJCA - PART 2



OCTOBER 7, 2008 � FAZER MAGAZINE INTERVIEW
http://www.fazer.ca/2008/10/06/an-interview-with-special-ops-september-2008/



OCTOBER 6, 2008 � K94 ROCKS RADIO INTERVIEW � TORONTO ROCK RADIO SHOW
http://k94rocks.podomatic.com/entry/2008-10-06T19_22_43-07_00

SEPTEMBER 2008 � ALTSOUNDS.COM INTERVIEW WITH SPECIAL OPS
http://hangout.altsounds.com/interviews/101728-inspire-me-special-ops.html




SEPTEMBER 2008 � TOUR DATES ANNOUNCED ON ALTSOUNDS.COM
http://hangout.altsounds.com/news/101133-what-cancer.html






















SEPTEMBER 26, 2008 � TOUR COVERAGE � WELLANDTRIBUNE
http://www.wellandtribune.ca/PrintArticle.aspx?e=1219080




SEPTEMBER 15,2008 � CHARTATTACK.com � TOUR COVERAGE
http://www.chartattack.com/news/60303/cancer-cant-stop-special-ops


SEPTMEBER 2, 2008 - COSMOSGAMING.com
http://www.cosmosgaming.com/?id=29124747


























SEPTMEBER NEWS COVERAGE � BALLBUSTERHARDMSUIC.COM
http://www.ballbusterhardmusic.com/hard_news/09-2008.html



JUNE 9, 2008 � BEOWOLF WEBZINE � ALBUM REVIEW
PHASE 2: AMIDST THE MADNESS

http://www.beowolfproductions.com/MusicReviewsJun08.html

JUNE 2008 � CRAVEFEST.com





JUNE 25, 2008 � PULP MAGAZINE � HEARING AID� SPECIAL OPS INTERVIEW
http://www.pulpmag.net/hearingaid/hearingaid08/specialops/specialops




MAY 28, 2008 � COSMOSGAMING � ALBUME REVIEW �
SPECIAL OPS � PHASE 2: AMIDST THE MADNESS
http://www.cosmosgaming.com/articles.php?id=1313&articletype=review










MAY 28, 2008 � METALOBESERVER.com �
ALBUM REVIEW PHASE 2: AMIDST THE MADNESS
http://www.metal-observer.com/articles.php?lid=1&sid=6&id=14310
















































MAY 27, 2008 � XS-BS MAGAZINE � ALBUM REVIEW
SPECIAL OPS � PHASE 2:AMIDST THE MADNESS
http://www.xs-bs.com/mag/archives/154

















































MAY 2008 � ALBUM REVIEW � ROCK IS LIFE.COM �
SPECIAL OPS � PHASE 2:PHASE 2: AMIDST THE MADNESS
http://www.rock-is-life.com/2008reviews/phase2.htm




MAY 2008 � CANADIAN METAL.COM � NEW COVERAGE �
Special Ops Bassist Diagnosed With Cancer Tour Dates Canceled

http://www.canadianmetal.com/news-359

APRIL 2, 2008 � THE BRUNSWICKAN � FREDERCITON, NEW BRUNSWICK CANADA










































CHUO 89.1FM � Ottawa � Radio Interview - http://www.mediafire.com/?jipfyejzwam

CHUO 89.1FM � Ottawa � Radio Shout Out - http://www.mediafire.com/?0fvxkonej5n

APRIL 29, 2008 - COSMOSGAMING













































APRIL 29, 2008 � INDIESOLO.COM � BAND OF THE DAY













































APRIL 30, 2008 � ABORT MAGAZINE � NEWS
http://abortmag.com/?p=1248







APRIL 3, 2008 � TOP 40 CHARTS � NEWS
http://top40-charts.com/news/Tour-Dates/Special-Ops-Invade-Canadian-2008-Tour-Dates!/39398.html






















FEBRUARY 2008 � TORONTO MUSIC SCENE.com
http://www.torontomusicscene.ca/interviews/special-ops.html



















FEBRUARY 7, 2008 � METAL EXPRESS RADIO
http://www.metalexpressradio.com/menu.php?main=reviews&id=2479













































DECEMBER 10, 2007 � CHARTATTACK � INTERVIEW
http://www.chartattack.com/news/45030/montreals-special-ops-deploy-on-a-mission-of-rock

SEPTMEBER 24, 2007 � MONTREAL HOUR � OTTAWA EXPRESS � VOIR
SPECIAL OPS � ALBUM REVIEW � PHASE 2: AMIDST THE MADNESS
http://www.ottawaxpress.ca/music/spin.aspx?iIDDisque=4467



JUNE 22, 2007 � WINDSOR STAR

INTERNATIONAL BLOG COVERAGE
http://blogro1.blogspot.com/2007/05/banda-special-ops.html


2005 � LOLLIPOP MAGAZINE (US) 30, 00 � IMPRESSIONS � ALBUM REVIEW � SPECIAL OPS PHASE 1: IN SEARCH OF MADNESS
http://www.lollipop.com/disc69/bands/special_ops/index.html

- Special Ops Press coverage through the years

August 27th, 2009
Special Ops

More than a name
Dave Jaffer

Johnson : "Like most bands that have been pushing for almost 10 years, we all have our road scars and stories."
photo: courtesy of Asher Media

Special Ops' Heart Of The Infidel bears a message for humanity

Coming up with a great band name or album title is, I assume, a tricky thing. Ideally, you want these things to be memorable, maybe communicate some idea of what's happening in the music, and moreover, you want it to connect with people in that mystical way that the right name just does and the wrong name just doesn't.

Compare Appetite for Destruction with "The Spaghetti Incident?"

Montreal's Special Ops seem to get it. Their band name was chosen after a five-hour bitch session in 2002, informed by the blaring idiot box that incessantly reported on special ops units halfway around the world. "All we could think of was that the music had to have a message," says guitarist Akbar Johnson, who adds that the name had to match the music, whose aim was to "criticize society."

That said, Johnson's just as quick to shoot down notions that Special Ops' rock/ metal hybrid, replete as it is with some military-sounding cadences, is militarily concerned. "The only thing militaristic about us is the dedication we have to this project," he says, quizzically. "Like most bands that have been pushing for almost 10 years, we all have our road scars and stories."

Special Ops' upcoming third studio release might be a runaway success, or it might land on its ass with a thud, but whatever the case, its title, Through the Heart of the Infidel, will not be forgotten easily. Thing is, in being a provocative title, it runs the risk of being received as just a provocative title. Johnson understands
this, but suggests he and his band mates had no real choice in the matter.

"Provocative is all we are!" he says. "[Special Ops is] 4 guys from different parts of the globe, come together united under the Maple Leaf. We all have our separate experiences from having to deal with issues of race and colour, [religion], border issues...the list is endless. But fact is, when you sit there and look at the world around you, actually open your eyes, you will see the most depressing picture of all."

"Our mission is not political, it is human," he clarifies, going on to suggest that what angers Special Ops' members more than anything is the general state of the world, hate- and fearmongering, war, and Western culture's more wasteland-ish qualities. And while he knows that Special Ops isn't the cure per se, he also believes that if people "get whatever meaning out of a song, and it helps change things [for] the better, then we got the message across."

Special Ops
@ Mavericks
August 27, 8 p.m.

http://www.ottawaxpress.ca/music/music.aspx?iIDArticle=18135 - Ottawa Xpress

With their catchy guitars and Rock radio friendly sound, Montreal’s SPECIAL OPS are aiming squarely for mainstream appeal although they’re still not afraid to experiment with some heavier moments every now and then. The bands style could be best described as post-Grunge Rock as you may hear everything from COLLECTIVE SOUL to NICKELBACK, and even SYSTEM OF A DOWN among others reflected in the groups musical style on their second full length album, “Phase 2: Amidst The Madness”.



Lead off track, “Anger Is Creeping”, is a catchy groove rocker with an appealing chorus supported by the sludgy playing of guitarist Akbar Johnson. Showing us they’re not oblivious to modern forms of Metal, they surprisingly even use a few Death growls to add a darker feel to the next track, “Better Off”, which otherwise has a quirkier but still heavy Grunge influenced sound. Singer Abe Froman along with Akbar both give the bands songs a wide variety of vocals that range from standard Rock to even psuedo-rapping. Highlights from the album would include the previously mentioned “Better Off”, as well as the symphonic and catchy “Feel For You”. The song “Here I Go” is also notable for effectively experimenting with Middle Eastern melodies very nicely played on the guitar. - Metal Obersever - Morris

Special Ops
Written by Christopher "Alleyne" Rudder


I was chilllin’, minding my own when i got a package from my boy Jon Asher out of Montreal, Canada.
Suddenly I was “Amidst the Madness”
I shit you not!!!
Special Ops has emerged to become one of the most sought after outfits in an age where bottom heavy distorted elegance is found to consort with ethnically infused infectious rhythms. Thrusting with a double barrel vocal assault and securing with a well-armed rhythm section, it is standard operitional procedure for this joint task force to be moving to higher ground.
I feel violated.
My eardrums raped.

When Special Ops gets up in your head and starts pounding, you take 2, 800 milligram migraine Advil and the Advil be saying. “Phukk you buddy, your on you own”
This music puts you in the middle of Afghanistan just as it’s being bombed.
The vocals put you on the frontline and the production hooks you up with an arsenal of weapons.

With quick and accurate bombardment, they have been able to blow away North American audiences using a fully equipped live musical attack. The group has gained recognition by means of their unique chemistry which functions in creating their cutting edge music. Their infuence stems from bands reminiscent of Alice In Chains, Guns N Roses, Metallica and blends to form a sound that is curiously enchanting to the human ear. Their sound is a blend of Nickelback meets System Of A Down and Nirvana.

The type of music Special Ops delivers is either stomp music or get stomped on music...it’s your choice

Alleyne: Special Ops, how are you guys?

Special Ops: We're Great, and you?

Alleyne: I’m good, I wanna thank you for taking time out of your schedule to talk with me and to PulpMag

Special Ops: No problem, Thank you for having us, it is a pleasure

Alleyne:...iiight lets do this!!! Aside from music and what is written in your bio, tell us something about you that your fans don't know.

Special Ops: Special Ops was really put together by CSIS as the musical task force.

Alleyne: As an artist, the musical journey is a long (trust me I know) and can not be done by oneself. Who are some of the people in your life who have supported you and continue to support you through you musical career.

Special Ops: Friends and familys have always been the greatest supporters of course. But lets no forget all the industry people who have helped us on the way, some of them really are good people, we were quite shocked! It is a dog eat dog industry.


Alleyne: So...At what point in your life did you know you wanted to pursue a musical career and realize that you had what it takes to succeed in the messed up industry.

Special Ops: Ah yes the note that started it all! We each remember a day when we were kids when you heard that one song or that one note, that made you think, I want to do this for the rest of my life. For me it was the age of 9, that is what started the insane push towards success in this messed up industry.

Alleyne: What experience do you value more and in turn get more personal satisfaction from as an artist: The creative process of making a song from the thoughts, inspirations and and feelings to the writing, producing and/or recording of that song OR performing the the finished track at one of your live shows and feeling/seeing the crowds positive reaction and love for your musical genius.

Special Ops: Creating & writing music is rewarding just as much as performing. There is no greater feeling than having your fans appreciate the music your pumping out on that stage, seeing them move and jump and sing along to every lyric. The you get off stage and they welcome you into their homes and families. Our fans are not fans they are our extended family, with out them we are nothing.

Alleyne: Who are the musical legends that influenced you growing up, and/or affected your musical career and who are the unsigned artists you respect and love
Special Ops: All of us have different musical influences from different genres of music.from Anthrax , Nina Simone, Metallica, Tu Pac, Miles Davis, Bob Marley, Alice in Chains, Rage Against The Machine, and the list goes on and on. The unsigned artist we dig Revelation Theory from NYC, Flatlined, Ashtray, My American Heart.



Alleyne: Aside from me (hahaha) who are some indy musicians you would love to have the opportunity to collaborate and work with.

Special Ops: Zack Wilde, Nina Simone, Dorothy from the wizard of oz (Judy Garland I think her name is)

Alleyne: Talk about the musical environment that you consciously chose to immerse yourself in that helped foster the development of your fundamental musical skills such as the self-examination of your strengths and individuality, creating improvisational music, and writing/performance techniques; shaping your musical competence and helping you discover your unique voice that your fans are blessed with in your musical creations.

Special Ops: All the urban surroundings and the world events and that take place in our time which contribute to our creative process . Both the environment and topography of our surroundings influence our creative development both locally and global. The events that are happening in our time are unacceptable and we desperately need change right now. From Politics, to environment and even day to day human interactions, people today are living in a bubble and they don't seem to realize that their behavior affects not only other people but themselves swell. Hopefully we can get our message out through our music.

Alleyne: With the emergence of Online Independent Music Labels such as iTunes that can market/promote music primarily through the internet medium via the assistance of the burgeoning online communication networks such as myspace.com, do you think that the major record labels in the world will eventually cease to be the gatekeepers to musicians seeking lucrative sales and worldwide acclaim.

Special Ops: If by major labels you mean the likes of EMI and sony etc... then yes to a certain extent. But it's not so black and white, the industry is allot more complicated than that. One can't just record an album throw them up on iTunes and expect to make it big over night. you need the viral media, you need to spend time talking to the people who write to you. There is nothing more annoying than writing a band you like on a site such as myspace or face book or whatever new one will pop up this week and not have the band write you back. These people are the artists bread and butter, they are the ones who make you or break you. We grew up as fans and know what it is like so we make it a point to write anyone who writes us. it could take upto 4 hrs a day but reassured the band itself is the one writing you back.

In any case I was veering away for a bit there, the industry needs allot of hard work, and yes the big majors are crying because of the whole free download issue, but it is just making better artists, it is making them go out there and perform instead of recording an album and sitting at home waiting for sales to come in. Now they actually have to work for a living! ;p And for the young up and coming bands, hey man give it away for free, let the world here, the more the better. Don't you agree?



Alleyne: Nurture VS Nature...Do you think music talent, song writing, music producing, playing instruments, performing etc...is something that is learned or something that comes naturally

Special Ops: The musical part comes naturally it is a part of our genome producing and recording comes in time & experience. It is a real mix of the two to be honest. Music is communication and if you are not able to communicate effectively, then you need to learn how.

Alleyne: How do you feel about the Indy Music scene in your neck of the woods

Special Ops: The indie scene in Montreal has always been vibrant, people here are fussy and they wont just go see anything. They will take the time to research and see who the hell these guys are and what they are all about. Montreal really has a no bullshit attitude towards all indie musicians. Which while making it hard, also makes sure that it ups the bar in the level of quality the city is producing.

Alleyne: P2P File Sharing. Do you think that with modern technology enabling us to share music is a heaven sent for indie artists or total hell for big record labels who lose millions due to illegal downloading of files.

Special Ops: Sharing music through downloading is cool but some other artists make a big fuss about it. for an independent artist it is a great way for people & fans to hear your music and the point is to get people to hear music.



Alleyne: How do you define musical success? Is it a personal feeling of achievement based on goals you set out for your self? or is it "money in the bank" international stardom, fame & glory

Special Ops: All of the above lol. Success is touching that listeners emotion, shaking up the cold dead emotions of day to day life and bring something more to life within that person. Success is having people sing along to your lyrics as you perform. its not really about the dollar its about the rush you get when your on stage, or the awesome feeling that you get when someone writes you telling you your song reflects their stage in life. Should I keep going, your making me mushy. lol

Alleyne: I'm gonna say a few words...tell me the first thing that comes to mind...lets start with your name Special Ops...

Special Ops: The bestest in the westest.

Alleyne: Change

Special Ops: Dirty Underwear. (Have you been on tour?)

Alleyne: Journey

Special Ops: Starship enterprise.

Alleyne: Destination

Special Ops: That awesome venue in your city, what's it called again?

Alleyne: Life

Special Ops: Bitch

Alleyne: Favorite word

Special Ops: Bastard (its an inside joke, but were being honest here!)

Alleyne: Least favorite word

Special Ops: Cancelled

Alleyne: Favorite word to cuss with

Special Ops: Bastard

Alleyne: Your favorite body part

Special Ops: We love our Penis'

Alleyne: Do you have sex or "make love"

Special Ops: Meet us at the hotel and you will find out. lol (bring cameras!). No, no, do you eat the same thing everyday?

Alleyne: No thanks...If I stole your iPod or MP3 player...aside from my songs and all of PulpMag's podcasts what else would I find.



Special Ops: the reason why we asked you to bring a camera!lol. ok no seriously, some dust, headphones, Waldos Jazz collection!

Alleyne: For all of our readers who will hear some of your songs, read the interview, and become instant fans; tell them where they can learn more about you, your music and your production. Tell everyone your website addresses?

Special Ops: www.opsmission.com, www.myspace.com/opsmission, facebook.com (Special Ops group), and a whole lot more we really cant keep up.



Alleyne: Do you have any upcoming projects, events or albums coming up that you want to give the readers and your fans the "heads up" about

Special Ops: Yes we do! there is a new album in the works, should be out by the fall. Fasten your seat belts its going to blow you away. its Raw as hell, self produced so its pure 150% Ops.

Alleyne: Cool, on behalf of the PulpMag Familia I wanna personally thank you for taking the time out to chit-chat with me. Keep on pushing and we will work together again!!!

Special Ops: It was a real pleasure and thank you again for your time and effort to help us assimilate the masses!

Alleyne: Thanks

Special Ops: See you at the show!
iiight lets check out Special Ops with “Anger Is Creeping” - Pulp Magazine - Hearing Aid Section

“Special Ops toe the company line through 10 tracks of slickly produced, chorus-heavy, radio-ready metal that oozes youth rebellion, angst and tormented urban decadence at every turn… Special Ops will appeal to many.”- Steve Lalla, Hour - Hour-Steve Lalla

"The Special Ops squad hits heavy with bonecrushing bass end sounds as the clear vocals and shrapnel of the guitars arc from the area of impact, ya gotta go see 'em live!" --Metal Canvas CHUO 89.1 FM, Al "Carnage" Carnival - CHUO 89.1FM-Ottawa

Montreal's Special Ops Deploy On A Mission Of Rock

By: ChartAttack.com Staff
You may have already heard Montreal's Special Ops without even knowing it.
The Montreal rockers have gained recent attention nationwide for their opening
theme song to the Sid Cycle Show, which airs weekly on Global, Showcase, Spike
TV and Mentv and reaches two million viewers weekly. In addition to "Anger Is
Creeping" being used as the show's opening theme, the program exclusively
features Special Ops music throughout.
"We basically wrote him the theme song and the rest of the soundtrack from season
one is all us," says guitarist/vocalist Akbar Johnson. "We just finalized the meeting
yesterday, and the second season is mostly the second album as well."
Johnson, who uses a code name due to his involvement in the Special Ops' self-proclaimed mission to "take
over the world with their musical dictatorship," is extremely stoked about the band's second album. Phase 2:
Amidst The Madness has sold a couple thousand copies in its first month. Johnson claims the TV has played a
big part in helping Special Ops further spread their musical propaganda.
"Turnout has increased, web hits have increased, MySpace listening and friends adding. We're not shy to say
that he's helped us with the exposure a lot.
"When Sid came along, we just kind of hit it off. We had no problems because the people who watch his show
are kind of the same as the people who would like our music, so we hit it off so well. He's got over a million
viewers when his show airs, and he's never shy to say, you know, 'music by Special Ops or theme song by
Special Ops.'"
The group will push their agenda during a Dec. 16 show at Hull, Quebec's Le Bop. Here's what Johnson says
people can expect:
"Our mission is to entertain people, rock their assess off and just take over the scene, man. Slowly, one after
another, they will all succumb.
"Naw man, honestly, we're the kind of guys who realize that music and playing live shows is all about
entertaining people and communication. If you can't communicate or you can't entertain, then obviously you're
not doing your job right."
Special Ops are already working on their third album, in what has only been a two-year career, while still
promoting Amidst The Madness. A Canadian tour is in the works for May.
—Pete Richards - Chart Attack.com

SPECIAL OPS
By: Croydon DeMello

Inspiring, Hypnotic and Loud is the music that comes from a unique band out of Montreal called ‘Special Ops’. This week at the Circus Room in Kitchener, Special Ops delivered a set wild enough to leave a person furiously ecstatic and in spirits that make you want to hear more of this strange but beautiful music.

The band has come a long way with since their first 5 song E.P from 2002 entitled “Better Off.” Since then, they released their first Album “Phase 1: In Search of Madness” and have just recently launched their second album “Phase 2: Amidst the Madness.” Consisting of Abe Froman on Vocals, Akbar Johnson on Guitars/Vocals, Waldo Thornhill on Bass and Clarence Mcgillacutty on Drums, the four-piece section delivers a monster sound that is a wall of heavy distorted guitars and backed up by a tremendous battery of grooves.


“We came to Toronto and worked with Murray Daigle of MDS Recording Studios”, says Akbar Johnson. “He has worked with Not By Choice, Cauterize, Flatline and new upcoming talent. We wanted his sound on our second album. He even got Liam Kileen (Not By Choice) to come in and play drums on some of the tracks on the album.”


Special Ops New AlbumWith the advent of the second CD out, Special Ops plans to take the show even further by taking their music outside of Canada. “The tour for our first album had us going from East to West Canada. We’ve now got a lot of response from UK and Europe and would like to play our music there.”


To change the face of new Metal/Rock is a great feat alone, but Special Ops has proven that with hard work and reverence to the music you enjoy making, that the ‘New Music’ is but a natural by-product of the precise chemistry of people who come together and pour into the music their very souls.


For more information on Special Ops check out www.opsmission.com or their MySpace page at http://www.myspace.com/opsmission - Toronto Music Scene.com

Self-described as a mix of Nickelback-meets-Metallica-meets-Rage Against the Machine, the six-year-old Special Ops hails from Montreal. Their high-energy shows and protest songs, including a couple of studio albums (Phase 1: In Search of Madness and Phase 2: Amidst the Madness), have established them as a musical presence in Montreal. Now, they’re taking the tunes across Canada, including a show in Fredericton on April 5 at Vixen’s.

The Brunswickan: So why protest music? Was that something you always wanted to write?

Akbar Johnson: Anger. [Laughs.] Well, it started off- I’m very cynical in terms of the public and the way governments run things and politics and relationships, and I like to point out what people don’t see, including what people don’t see about themselves, if that makes any sense, try to take an angle that no one else has used before. But the protest seems to be pretty popular lately.

B: Yeah, there was just a huge anti-police-brutality protest a week or so ago, right?

AJ: Welcome to Montreal. We’re always protesting. I had a meeting, actually, a business meeting that day, for the band.

B: Where did you come up with the name, Special Ops?

AJ: That is four guys racking their brains as to what the hell we’re going to call this music, and it was around 2002 so you can imagine how fresh the Iraq war and Kuwait and all of it was...it was all over the news, and the term ‘special ops’ just kept popping up on TV, and we thought, wow, that’s a good name.

B: So do you write a lot about Iraq and that whole atmosphere?

AJ: Maybe on the first album. One, it was everywhere, and two, we’re all from ethnic backgrounds... and when we try to cross borders it’s always the colour police...we’re no strangers to that. It’s a big problem with regular travel. If you have a work visa, and you’re a band, they sometimes outright won’t even let you through.

B: What’s your inspiration for writing?

AJ: Nina Simone would be good inspiration, I know she’s a whole different genre, but...Joe Satriani, who’s again melodic, not typewriter rock, but I guess the whole politics and all that, it comes from the whole grunge era, that was my heyday. Growing up and having Nirvana and Rage and all the fuck-you songs, that’s when it really hit, because everyone else...the real mainstream was just doing the real lovey-dovey [music], ‘I have long hair and makeup’, which is unfortunately coming back.

B: Coming back? What do you think is next for the scene?

AJ: The scene will always change and will always revolve around itself. It loops. It’s a constant rubber band in a sense that it expands and comes back. Things will always be commercial to a certain level, and underground to a certain level. When you have things – ska exploded at some point, and before that, ska was underground, and who the hell thought ska would have come back? We just know the rock stuff because it’s in your face...people get bored of one thing, and they find the next thing. The question is, who’s the next Nirvana or the next band who’s going to be the next big thing?

B: And who is it?

AJ: I don’t know. Definitely not bands like Hedley or anything like that, because it’s all said and done. What kind of genre? To be honest with you: rockabilly, psychobilly. I think that whole thing is here to stay. I like the Necromantics a lot. That’s my thing, but I think it’s here to stay because I’ve been looking around and seeing more and more bands pop up, and more and more people are supporting the look and touring and getting in. It’s about fucking time something else came up.

B: What’s it like making music in Montreal?

AJ: Montreal is a very awesome city, because you have a little bit of everything and anything. You can go from super popular in one day to – people can really see through the bullshit here. They’ll look at you and say, ‘who the fuck are you? Why should I come and support you?’ They’ll take the time to research and they’re finicky...it’s not liking going to a small town, where people are desperate for any band that comes in...[But] in Montreal right now, people are sick of the politics. The whole indie thing is back, the whole electro pop rock, beepbeep thing is going on, and they’re sick of [politics]...because, fuck, it’s been going on since 2002.

B: So what do people think of you guys across the country?

AJ: It’s a different response everywhere. Quebec [City], it’s all about the politics, Ontario they just want to have fun. Every province – I can’t say for New Brunswick yet, I’ll find out this weekend – it’s so different, because this country is so wide and has a relatively small population, and there are concentrations in every province...they’ve got their own subculture, I guess. It’s fantastic. You gotta read it, you gotta know where you’re going or how to treat it. When you’re going to Calgary, you don’t treat them the same as someone from Quebec. You gotta know these things...

B: And what’s your live show like?

AJ: We’re very, very high-energy. We make sure when we put out an album, if it sounds anything close to a song we already have, we’re not doing it. It gets thrown in the bin, so you don’t get bored listening or watching, because we don’t do the same thing twice. The guitarist uses his fingers, not a pick, kind of awkward, actually, and you have the singer with dreads going all over the place, but it’s fun to watch...We get [that we sound like Rage, System of a Down, we used to get Tea Party for some reason, I don’t see where they get that from. The single gets a lot of Metallica, things like that. We get compared to the big boys a lot and I don’t know if that’s a good thing or not.

Special Ops play at Vixen’s in Fredericton on April 5. - The Brunswickan-Ashley Bursey- April 2, 2008

Canadian rockers Special Ops are sitting comfortably on their latest release CD Phase 2: Amidst The Madness. Special Ops have done an unbelievable job in redefining a new breed of metal. Combine elements of Nu-Metal with elements of Rap Metal and Alt-rock, add in a bunch of tempo changes and you might get close to what these guys sound like.

CD Phase 2: Amidst The Madness offers a wide variety of musical sensibilities. Just when you think you know what the band is going to sound like they change things up, refusing to be pigeonholed. No matter what you want to call them, this disc rocks like nobody’s business. A killer production accents the excellent musical chops of these guys. The vocals are extremely powerful and full of passion and emotion.

I really dug the opening track, “Anger Is Creeping.” Incorporating a killer riff with a great catchy chorus, I truly enjoyed it. the song has influences that reminded me of System of A Down combined with a bit of a Metallica thrown in for good measure. Without a doubt, the tune I enjoyed the most on this disc is “Tri-Five,” which is also built around a big riff and packed with tempo changes, this song definitely is the hardest tune on the album.

The production on this disc is stellar; it is big and ballsy but not too polished, it still manages to retain a bit of grit to it which I feel adds to the authenticity of the music Special Ops is playing.

At the end of the day, I feel CD Phase 2: Amidst The Madness is a breath of fresh air on the music scene. Special Ops have created a disc that will be a hit with metal fans across the board. There is something in here for everyone. [ END ]

Track Listing:

01. Anger is Creeping
02. Better Off
03. Damn Yourself
04. Feel For You
05. Felony
06. Front Of The Line
07. George
08. Here I Go
09. Tri Five
10. You

Run Time: 32:44

http://www.puregrainaudio.com/reviews/special-ops1 - PureGrain Audio - Author: Bruce Moore