Stigma

…. What Stigma do is not shrouded in mystery, ‘First Call’ does what it says on the tin, it is an empowering release based around removing societal stigmas and embracing who you are, which is pretty inspiring. To do this, Stigma aim to give the listener self-worth and the passion to follow their dreams, but this isn’t delivered in a cuddly way or preaching way, in fact, it’s pretty foot stompingly angry using modern sounding riffage from simple AC/DC foot tappers to Metallica style complexity coupled with that Alice Cooper empowering nature that Alice has done so well since ‘The Last Temptation’. … - Metal Digest (by Adam McCann)

German hard rock band Stigma releases „First Call,“ a five-track album showcasing varied themes and their defiance against societal norms.
„First Call“ marks Stigma’s second studio foray, a German Hardrock outfit that has been stamping its unique footprint on the rock landscape since 2021. This album presents five distinct stories, each portraying varied emotions and themes. From the intricate emotional web of „Obsession“ to the poignant reflections in „Fallen Angel“, the band’s versatility shines through. The album’s critical reflection on the Arab world, „Arabian Nights“, offers an uplifting chorus, urging brightness amidst conflict. With „Fire“, Stigma delves deep into the cyclicality of life, juxtaposing destruction and rebirth.
In the broader spectrum, Stigma stands as a beacon of defiance against societal norms, drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Alice Cooper and Metallica, while intertwining their message of breaking free from societal stigmas. With a trajectory that has already seen them win accolades and collaborate for anthems, their journey with „First Call“ only deepens their imprint on the global rock scene. This collection, laden with searing guitar riffs, thundering bass, and relentless drums, promises not just music but an experience – a testament to Stigma’s evolution and their unwavering commitment to their art. - MorteMagazine Mexico

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This is the second EP / mini album by German hard-rock band First Call. It offers five well-produced and played compositions that will appeal to fans of melodic hard rock like VandenBerg. It’s slightly heavier than the classic hard rock of the 80s. The dual guitars add a nice extra melodic layer, bordering on heavy metal during some instrumental sections. This elevates this from being a tribute band and gives the music a modern touch. The songwriting is also adding enough variation, bringing in influences from Magnum.
It’s not the type of music you would expect very clever lyrics telling long stories, but some choruses could use a little bit more variation or less cheesy rhyming. The vocals are quite high in the mix, so this becomes pretty clear. You could say it does fit the musical style, as does the production, which is clear and very good. I guess it can be kind of a party, attending Stigma live.
If besides your dose of prog you listen to VandenBerg, Magnum or even AC/DC and Bon Jovi, this might be right up your alley. - DPRP (by Jerry van Kooten)

Germany’s Stigma blast on their protesting, powerful anthemic new single ‚Fire‘.

Boasting a frantic, fierce energy and classic, growling vocals there are elements of shock rock and an up-tempo, unapologetic raw groove. Melodic with brazen, self-indulgent riffs that brawl against booming drums and a droning bassline. Theatrical and flamboyant, Stigma draws compassion to the likes of Lordi with their nod to horror and lyrics that stick in your head whether you like it or not!

‚Fire‘ is addictively catchy with a meaningful message. No matter what happens and however destructive life gets it is never too late to rebuild, pick yourself up, and rise from the fire! It’s an emphatic and motivational lyric. The songwriting is on point. - Click Roll Boom (by Amy)