U.K.-based writer Darren Upton (pictured below) is working on the unauthorized and unofficial biography of W.A.S.P. titled "Sting In The Tale", featuring new interviews with Randy Piper (guitar), Chris Holmes (guitar) and Stet Howland (drums).
Commented Upton: "I've been a W.A.S.P. fan for 23 years now. Everything about Blackie [Lawless] and his band attracted me, from their cool costumes, over-the-top stage shows, and, of course, the music! Anthems like 'L.O.V.E. Machine', 'I Wanna be Somebody' and 'Wild Child' have penetrated our very psyches from the first time we were exposed to them, and resound in us to this very day. I felt it was about time that somebody wrote a complete biography on W.A.S.P. After years of waiting and wishing, I realized that if a book was to be authored, I would have to write it myself!
The official book description: "W.A.S.P. were one of the primary heavy metal bands to crawl from the gutter of the Los Angeles scene of the early '80s. Led by the charismatic, dark and intense Blackie Lawless, W.A.S.P. went on to cement their status as rock legends. From their early shows full of blood and gore to Blackie's eventual return to his Christian roots, this book brings you bang up to date in revealing detail. Riveting and controversial, 'Sting In The Tale' dramatically lifts the lid on the many skeletons stashed in the W.A.S.P. closet."
For more information, visit WaspStingInTheTale.co.uk.
Bloodbath.ro recently conducted an interview with powerhouse American vocalist Tim "Ripper" Owens (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, BEYOND FEAR, JUDAS PRIEST, ICED EARTH). A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.
Bloodbath.ro: Which is your first JUDAS PRIEST song that you've heard when you were young?
Owens: "Jugulator"... Hahahaha. [I'm just] kidding. Wow... Not sure. The one that got me hooked was "Electric Eye"; just hearing how [Rob Halford] changes his voice was great... but I just loved them all.
Bloodbath.ro: Your strength from voice is something that you've worked it hard or you are born with it?
Owens: Well, I was born with it, it is a gift, but I have really worked on it and made it stronger. I can always get better and I always try to do that.
Bloodbath.ro: Your mom still coming to your shows? (I've seen her behind sound mixer in a video recording.)
Owens: Yeah, she comes down to my restaurant (Ripper Owens Tap House) and watches me jam acoustic. Her and my Dad, they try and get out as much as they can. They are my No. 1 fans.
Bloodbath.ro: Is still annoying you a part of media when they are call you a clone of Rob [Halford]? Or how do you react?
Owens: It really does bother me. I have done so much and I tour solo all the time. It is a shame that people think this. I am myself, I do so much on my own, but it is what it is. Mostly it is Blabbermouth morons that just sit their fat, greasy ass behind a computer and are jealous of all the bands on there. I mean, I have done more than a lot of people. I love what I do, I love to sing the best I can... and I unlike other musicians I have met, I love the fans and to make them happy.
Bloodbath.ro: Which are the sources of inspiration for your compositions ?
Owens: Mostly everyday life, but the great thing about writing a song is you can write about anything you want to.
ANTHRAX singer Joey Belladonna has scheduled the following solo tour dates:
Jan. 29 - Bogie's - Albany, NY
Feb. 19 - 95X Screamfest @ Lucien's Entertainment Complex - Cicero, NY
Mar. 10 - The Met - Providence - RI
Mar. 11 - Toad's Place - New Haven, CT
Mar. 17 - Carriage House - Louisville, OH
Mar. 18 - Chicago City Limits - Schaumburg, IL
Mar. 19 - The Token Lounge - Westland, MI
Mar. 20 - Lee's Palace - Toronto, ON
Mar. 26 - Cube Restaurant - Newark, DE
Apr. 08 - Quixotes - Denver, CO
Apr. 09 - Downtown Grill & Venue - Casper, WY
When asked in a recent interview with RockMusicStar.com why he decided to do solo dates at this time, Joey replied, "Well, I'm always putting dates together. Right now, I'm working with some agents and we found some places to play. But I'm always pursuing that, regardless. I've been doing this solo for so long and even though I'm with ANTHRAX now, I'm still doing it. It's not just because I have nothing to do, but because it's what I do. We really aren't working that much (with ANTHRAX) anyhow, but at the same time it really doesn't have anything to do with that. But, the dates are just falling in this year, as opposed to last year. I also play out every weekend, locally. I have a cover band called CHIEF BIG WAY. And we do a classic rock covers from BOSTON, JOURNEY, FOREIGNER, LED ZEPPELIN and bands like that."
On the topic of whether he plans on releasing a new BELLADONNA CD anytime soon, Joey said, "I have about three-quarters of a record ready. And we are trying to finish it up. It seems like it takes forever, but it's really a matter of who is available to work on it and finish it. And of course, I have to start working on some ANTHRAX material as well. I have been, but there is still more work to do on that one. So that's going to take some time, but that shouldn't interfere with what we are doing to finish up the release. But, I'm really enjoying the music that we are creating."
Regarding the sound of his new solo material and how it compares to his previous solo work, Belladonna said, "I think that it's a bit more metal in some ways. It's harder, it has different tunings and it is a bit more intricate. But it's still hard and heavy rock. There is a bit of old-school thrash. But I really don't want to put any labels on it."
On whether BELLADONNA performs any ANTHRAX or cover songs or if the band just sticks to Joey's solo material:
Joey: "Well, it's all of the above. Depending on the night and what everyone feels comfortable with. Some nights we could do all ANTHRAX, and it's totally different with BELLADONNA because we are a three-piece. Everyone's take on the songs is a little different. So, it's kind of cool that way. But we've been leaning towards doing ANTHRAX material, because it just feels comfortable banging them out."
Drummer Kenny Earl Edwards (a.k.a. Rhino; MANOWAR, HOLYHELL, ANGELS OF BABYLON) has released the following statement:
"I am writing to tell you that I have left my position with HOLYHELL. I cannot express my gratittude for all the love and respect I recieved from my wonderful friends in the band. They have always been like my second family and I will never forget the amazing times and special moments we shared. I could never think of another group of people I would rather be on the road with.
"Jay Rigney. The bass player's bass player... nobody can hold the rhythm and bottom end like him... unless you feed him mushrooms... then it's all over. My brilliant roommate and companion.
"Joe Stump. Nobody i know more dedicated to their instrument and able to play at the speed of light with 15 tons of incredibly expensive jewelry hanging from his hands. A real big heart, too.
"Francisco. Killer classically trained virtuoso with a smile that can brighten any gloomy day. Look out when he is onstage! He might spontaneously explode or rip his pants... or... cut his hands to shreds on his expensive jewelry. Love him like a brother.
"Maria... beautiful person, beautiful heart, beautiful voice. No one can make me laugh harder. She has more dedication than you can ever imagine... Are those eyelashes or did some eagle lose its wings?
"I love you my friends. As well, I hope to see all the HOLYHELL fans again in the near future. Thanks so much for the inspiration, unending enthusisam and support!"
HOLYHELL's debut album was released in 2009 via MANOWAR's Magic Circle Music label.
Get Ready To Rock! recently conducted an interview with drummer Craig Nielsen of veteran Arizona metallers FLOTSAM AND JETSAM. A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.
Get Ready To Rock!: Having listened to your latest effort, you sound stronger than ever! Excitement is back, not only within the ranks of FLOTSAM AND JETSAM, but within the ranks of the media.
Craig: Well, thank you very much! We took the appropriate amount of time to write the songs this time round. Mark (Simpson; guitar) has become tremendously better in understanding how the riffs from his head can be translated into the studio. It takes a songwriter a few records I think in order to get used to how ideas can get across into the final recording. So, Mark has some tremendous ideas that in his head knew how to get them on tape exactly as he imagined and this comes with time in the studio, so this was a perfect timing for these songs.
Get Ready To Rock!: I believe that there was a five year gap between "The Cold" and your previous album, "Dreams Of Death", right? Talking about it, "Dreams Of Death" was quite an enjoyable album, but, and I hope that you will take this the right way, was not the kind of album that would make me sing along to every single composition as "The Cold" is capable of doing. This new album has totally dominated my thoughts and that has not happened for quite some time really. What can I say — I am genuinely excited here!
Craig: You are right, it did take us five years since the release of "Dreams Of Death" in order to create our next album as Mark really started writing the songs for the new record three years ago. He started writing songs and he did it slowly and then I actually tracked the drums for this record August over two years ago! It was as a result of various reasons that our record's recording process and mixing got delayed. I could go on forever about this but the bottom line is that it was not to be a five year gap between albums — the gap was only really meant to be a two-year one.
Get Ready To Rock!: I want to ask what is happening with the band as I am aware that there have been some lineup changes recently. In the past there were some really significant changed happening, with Eric (A.K Knutson; vocals) leaving, so I am always slightly scared when I hear the term "lineup change" in relation with FLOTSAM AND JETSAM. A few people are probably wondering, myself included, what is the atmosphere in the band nowadays.
Craig: Eric left very briefly at the time of "My God" tour (2001) and that was a long time ago. He left for less than six months as he was very disillusioned with a few things that had to do with FLOTSAM AND JETSAM and others of a more personal nature. He wanted to make some changes! This didn't last very long as he came back very quickly. As for other changes, Ed Carlson (guitars) left and was replaced by Michael Gilbert (guitars). We did some touring with another bass player at some point just because Jason (Ward) has a scheduling problem — he simply couldn't do the last European tour which was two weeks, and so we replaced Jason for those shows. Jason never left the band; he simply couldn't do those shows which had been booked for a while. Something came up in his life and he simply couldn't go, so we hired some guy from Phoenix (Arizona) to do these shows — no big deal. We came back and nothing else has changed for the last fifteen years since
Mark and I got hired; we were hired on the same day! So, there are no other changes other than for Ed leaving and being replaced by another original guitarist Michael Gilbert. However, neither Ed or Michael had anything to do with the songs on "The Cold" — that's 100% Mark Simpson's playing and Mark Simpson's recording; no other guitar players have recorded anything on that record by Mark. The record was made in the transition of Ed deciding... you know, Ed became sober and made some very positive changes to his life. Unfortunately for some musicians when they become sober, they find it difficult to go on tour and be around people who party non-stop, as things become a bit lonely for the sober guy. So Ed decided that he wanted to make a change and Michael Gilbert was more than happy to come and re-claim his position as the original guitar player in the band. That transition came very smoothly and Michael never forgot apparently how to play any of the
older songs. When he came we thought that it would take a little while for him to come up to speed but it didn't. He was already there! He was very, very surprising as to how well he played those songs after all these years away! With respect to your question about how all this affected the new songs, nothing to do with any change of players had anything to do with this record, because this record was always Mark Simpson from start to finish as far as guitar playing is concerned!
Get Ready To Rock!: A good question would be how FLOTSAM AND JETSAM are currently perceived in the States nowadays? The U.S. is a slightly "temperamental" market & certainly not as loyal as that in Europe! Europe always supported heavy metal music, something that cannot always be said about America. I am aware that things have improved a lot these last three or four years, but have they improved to the point of making you really confident about the album's potential success in the States?
Craig: Hmm ... the album has been picked up by some serious satellite radio stations which have twenty million subscribers. They picked it up a couple of weeks ago an since then the record sales in the States have doubled, so that is something. It's getting a few requests on that radio and that is a good format. Before satellite radio metal had no chance in the States on radio — all there was was college radio; some little college programs that played metal two hours on a Saturday and now you can listen to that stuff twenty four hours a day through a satellite to which twenty million people subscribe to! So really, the potential exposure, if you can get on that program, is pretty outstanding! I don't know the numbers per se, how they compare to those of others, but Warner Brothers did not expect so many sales, especially as the climate of record buying is so horrible in the States right now. But, as far as metal in general in the States is concerned,
what happened is that fans got spoiled and they expect three or four headliners on the same bill or they don't come out! It used to be that, you as the headliner would go out and play with local talent wherever you were and that was good enough — you could expect a decent show. Now, kids don't come out for one headliner. Like if EXODUS went out or Nevermore and they didn't have another good band to tour with, the show would not be nearly as good as if they were to go out together! But the problem is that, when you package up headliners, everybody wants to get paid and nobody can get paid what they want and it becomes a logistics nightmare. I would hope that the labels would figure out ... Metal bands here do well when they are packaged up and do not do well when they're not. I would think that there would be more effort from record labels to put together festival-type things like you find in every country in Europe in the summer. I would hope that the
United States would catch on to that but, in fact, fewer and fewer festivals are being put on in the States instead of more. I think that they got it all wrong; I think that metal would still do very well here if labels were to get smart and package up big shows and get more people to come out so that the bands that are out there to perform can actually earn a living out of what they are doing. Nobody has yet stepped up and thought creatively about how to maximize potential. There are three hundred million people here and I am sure that Metal would do well if they packaged up tours better. Now the best you can do is to have two or three bands to come in one bill and that's what people would come out for. But if you were to put together seven or eight bands, as in a typical European festival, I think that they will really go for that here. Nobody has thought of doing that yet!
Former SODOM guitarist Dirk Strahlmeier, who played with the band from 1995 through 1996, has passed away.
Commented SODOM bassist/vocalist Thomas "Angelripper" Such: "As I learned from a reliable source, our ex-guitarist Dirk 'Strahli' Strahlmeier died this month in a hospital in Düsseldorf, Germany. Currently we don't know the exact circumstances of his death. Strahli played on the album 'Masquerade In Blood' which was released in 1995 on SPV. After that we had lost contact with him. Our deepest condolences to his family and friends."
Former SODOM drummer Chris "Witchhunter" Dudek died on September 8, 2008 due to vital organ failure.
SODOM's new album, "In War And Pieces", entered the German Media Control chart at position No. 64. The CD was released in North America on January 11 via SPV/Steamhammer.
KORN singer Jonathan Davis has uploaded three solo tracks — "Final Days", "Happiness" and "Medicate" — to his official Soundcloud account. You can now stream the music below.
Davis has been working on his debut solo album for the past couple of years. He told The Pulse of Radio in a 2009 interview that he had high hopes for his first solo effort. "I want the record to be the most amazing record I could possibly put out," he said. "I want all songs to be amazing and different. I want it to be really a very artistic, crazy album that no one's ever heard before. 'Cause it's very world music-y and dark, heavy, PETER GABRIEL-esque type music and I want all the songs to be different, and nothing like KORN."
Davis in September 2008 posted a new song called "Got Money" at his personal web site. The track will reportedly appear on his upcoming solo album and is a cover of the rap hit originally done by T-Pain and Lil Wayne. Davis' version features guest appearances from SLIPKNOT guitarist Jim Root and KORN drummer Ray Luzier.
During a brand new interview with DJ JC Green of Metal Messiah Radio's "Heavy Metal Thunder" show, vocalist Russell Allen of New Jersey's progressive metal masters SYMPHONY X revealed that the band has set "Iconoclast" as the title of its eighth album, due later this year via Nuclear Blast Records.
When asked what stage of the recording/mixing process the new CD is in, Allen replied, "We are in post-production, so the album is pretty much almost done. At this point, mixes are being wrapped up and finalized and it's off to mastering and should be ready for release in a few months — definitely first quarter of 2011. We've got the artworks all done, we're taking pictures next week... all that good stuff. So everything's on track for release pretty soon."
Regarding the sound of "Iconoclast" and how it compares to that of 2007's "Paradise Lost", Russell said, "Sonically, it's in the realm of that one in a way, in terms of the sound of things; the guitar sound is a little different. Basically, the album is pretty intense — probably the most intense record we've ever done; it's chock-full of riffs — tons of great riffs. It's heavy, the music, but the singing is very melodic in terms of its... the choruses are real strong, the verses are real strong, but I'm singing aggressively — a lot of that going on — 'cause the topic is, again, very dark; you know, that's what we do. So the album's very powerful. And, of course, we do have one song that's like a little mini-epic, so to speak, and it's the lightest — a light, light, light song. So there is a contrast on the record of that one song that has that sort of 'Paradise Lost' feel to it; it's a ballad, I guess, if you wanna call it that."
He continued, "This album will contain a good body of work that harkens back to a lot of early metal — some early metal — and a lot of SYMPHONY X standards that you guys know already, and a little bit of a newer sound, too, here and there — just a newer direction. Some of the singing parts, I tried some more rhythmic things that I was hearing that sounded pretty cool, and some different things that I'm doing with my voice now that are a little more looking to the future of what we hear the music going. It's just the next progression for us, where we are as writers and stuff, but it's pretty intense — it's way more intense than 'Paradise Lost', if you can believe that."
When asked about the "Iconoclast" lyrical concept, Russell said, "It is basically just the idea of machines taking over everything and all this technology we put our society into pretty much being our demise. It's a story we were all familiar with, but we put our own spin on it. It's not a linear story in terms of... This is just the theme of the record, so all the songs are in that theme, but they're not connected in any sort of story way — there's no characters of any of that stuff — it's just a theme. Like [PINK FLOYD's] 'The Dark Side Of The Moon', it's really just a theme of the dark side of the moon — one song deals with death, the other one deals with time... You know what I mean?! So it's the same kind of thing. I'm not comparing the two albums by any means — don't misunderstand me — but in terms of the idea of a concept, so to speak, the concept is there, but it's not a story record — not like [2002's] 'The Odyssey', where the song
'The Odyssey' is that story."
The entire interview will air on "Heavy Metal Thunder" in the next couple of weeks.
SYMPHONY X will embark on a North American headlining tour in April/May. Support on the trek will come from Seattle's NEVERMORE, Sweden's SOILWORK, Boston's POWERGLOVE and Montreal's BLACKGUARD. The trek will launch on April 21 in Philadelphia and wrap on May 22 in West Springfield, Virginia.
SYMPHONY X's last album, 2007's "Paradise Lost", has sold over 60,000 copies in North America.
Formed in 1994 in New Jersey, SYMPHONY X has seven studio albums and one live album to its credit.
Belgian metallers FIREFORCE will release their new album, "March On", on March 25 March via 7Hard. The CD artwork was designed by Eric Philippe, who has previously worked with RHAPSODY, RIOT, MOB RULES, TNT and many others.
"March On" contains "12 tracks of true old-school power metal with a monster wall of sound," according to a press release. The track listing for the effort is as follows:
01. Coastal Battery
02. The Only Way
03. Firestorm
04. Horus (Bringer Of Order)
05. 1302 - Battle For Freedom
06. Moonlight Lady
07. Annihilation
08. Fly Arrow Fly (Crécy 1346)
09. Mona Lisa
10. Hold Your Ground
11. Born To Play Metal
12. Metal Rages On
Formed in August 2008 by former DOUBLE DIAMOND members Flype and Erwin, FIREFORCE's lineup was completed by THB (drums; ex-DD), Joeri (guitars; ex-SELF INFLICTED) and Patrik (bass; ex-GRINNING GHOUL). In February 2009, the band entered the studio to record a four-song EP with producer (and MYSTIC PROPHECY singer) Roberto Dimitri Liapakis. Joeri subsequently decided to leave FIREFORCE for family reasons and was replaced by Steve Deleu (ex-GWYLLION)
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/reviewpics/fireforcemarch1.jpg
Guitarist Rich Walker of the U.K. epic doom band SOLSTICE has issued the following update:
"After our first couple of shows, Paul Britton has decided that he will end his tenure as the vocalist for SOLSTICE. We're all very sad to lose him, and it's not a reflection of the quality of Paul's voice or his incredible ability as a frontman.
"As we get older, we all lose our hearing to a certain degree, and even more so for people like Paul and myself who have had decades of Marshall abuse, and it's this that has caused the problem. Studio work with SOLSTICE is not a problem for him, but the live environment where things can be hit or miss in terms of quality of sound onstage is. Paul's pitching had suffered on these first couple of gigs, and we felt we were all struggling."
Added Paul: "It's with sadness that I'm out of the new SOLSTICE project. After two gigs it's clear that my voice isn't fitting in. There's no 'in fighting,' no 'musical differences,' just common sense. I don't feel 100 percent and it's not fair on the band to continue trying to blag my way though the hearing and pitching problems I'm having on stage.
"I know that Rich Walker and I will remain friends and I'm sure we'll work together again at some point this year. Until then I going to get stuck into the solo album that up till now has only had 50 percent of my attention.
"I hope SOLSTICE fans around the world understand the decision that's been made and I can only apologize for the European dates getting cancelled because of it."
The band added, "As Paul says, we intend to collaborate in the summer and make a racket togther, but this time I think it will be more on Paul's home ground where we all know he can excel and hold his own.
SOLSTICE is currently searching for a new full-time vocalist. All applicants should have the following qualities:
* Powerful and unique voice
* Stage presence, and the ability to talk to an audience
* A love of the loud and heavy
* A black sense of humour
* Be willing to travel in the U.K. and Europe for shows
* Be willing to get a round in
* Be over 30 years of age.
Interested parties should email NO-SPAMmetalculte@hotmail.com (Removing the NO SPAM part) with your details, audio samples, pics and promises of large amounts of money.
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/solsticeenglander.
Finnish metallers AMORAL have issued the following brief update:
"We are happy to announce that AMORAL has a new guitar player!
"As announced when Valtteri [Hirvonen] came in as a session guy to help us out with the gigs, he could not commit to being a full-time member due to his hectic schedule as a hot-shot photographer. So we've been keeping our eyes open all this time to see if we could find someone worthy to join the band. And now we have! Enter Masi Hukari, six-string slinger from many a project and band over the years.
"Ben [Varon, guitar] and Ari [Koivunen, vocals] had already met Masi a few times before, so we knew him to be a cool dude, and the word on the street was that the boy could play! After a couple of long chats to see that we were on the same page, we picked up our guitars and two new songs came together in no time. So that was that! We all agreed that this could definitely be our guy, and so it is that we'll be entering the studio as a five-piece to record album number five.
"The AMORAL Street Team conducted an interview with Masi to give you all a better idea of who this new guys is and what he is made of. Ben also answered some questions the teamers had regarding the upcoming album. Check out the interview here.
"A little fact file on Masi can be found at the band section of our website, and he's also answering questions you guys might have on our forum, so feel free to bug him!
"In other news: recording of the fifth AMORAL album starts NOW! The next month will be spent at Sound Supreme Studios in Hämeenlinna under strict supervision of our producer Janne Saksa. You can follow the studio session from our new studio blog, which will be frequently updated with pictures and witty remarks."
AMORAL's latest album, "Show Your Colors", entered the official chart in Finland at position No. 19.
"Show Your Colors" was released in the U.S. on June 9, 2009 through Spinefarm Records via Fontana distribution. Available in Finland since May 6, 2009, the CD was recorded at Sound Supreme Studios in Hämeenlinna, Finland.
"Year Of The Suckerpunch", the first AMORAL track to be released featuring singer Ari Koivunen, entered the national chart in the band's home country at position No. 19. In addition to the title cut, which was written and composed by guitarist Ben Varon, the single included a cover of the MISFITS song "Dig Up Her Bones".
Koivunen is best known as the winner of the 2007 Finnish national TV talent competition "Idols". He has released two solo albums thus far — 2007's "Fuel For The Fire" and 2008's "Becoming".
In July 2003, the metal world saw the release of WYCKED SYNN's debut album, "The Vision", on the now-defunct Chavis Records label. Since the release of that CD, many changes have occurred, not only within the band's lineup but with its musical approach as well.
In 2010, WYCKED SYNN guitarist and founding member Ken Orth recruited internationally renowned rock/metal vocalist Bob Mitchell (SLEEPY HOLLOW, THE BOB MITCHELL BAND) to be the group's new frontman. What comes of this is an amazing collaboration between the two that has resulted in tracks of pure metal mayhem.
Mitchell states: "Ken Orth joins Jim Mooney (ATTACKER) and Steve Stegg (SLEEPY HOLLOW) as the greatest songwriting partner a singer could ever ask for.
"Ken and I worked very hard on our songs and I am certain that all fans of heavy metal will, most assuredly, be pleased with what they will hear from WYCKED SYNN."
Although WYCKED SYNN has retained its melodic approach, the band's forthcoming EP, "Anger Rising", follows "a much darker and heavier direction than its predecessor," according to a press release.
All of the music for "Anger Rising" was recorded during 2010 and Mitchell will enter the studio on May 10 to lay down the vocal tracks for the effort. During the sessions, Mitchell will also record the vocal tracks for WYCKED SYNN's forthcoming full-length album, "Hell Bound", which is due in 2012.
"Anger Rising" will be released in October through German vinyl specialists High Roller Records.
ECHOTERRA — the new female-fronted symphonic rock/metal band featuring vocalist Melissa Ferlaak (VISIONS OF ATLANTIS), keyboardist Jonah Weingarten (PYRAMAZE), guitarist Yan Leviathan (AVIAN), bassist Brian Hollenbeck and drummer Adam Sagan (INTO ETERNITY) — has issued the following update:
"We are currently hard at work on our next album which will be released this summer. As of now, the drums, bass, and keyboards are all recorded and we are now working on the guitars. Once we are finished with that, we will begin vocal recordings. We will then begin the mixing and mastering process and hope to have the album completed by May.
"We have posted a clip of one of the songs [below] and we will post more clips on a regular basis. We are also working on completing the artwork which is taking shape quite nicely.
"The new album will be available as a physical CD and in digital format. The CD will feature a 16-page booklet with lyrics and additional artwork. We will announce the title in the near future as well as preview the artwork so stay tuned!"
AJATTARA — the Finnish band featuring former AMORPHIS frontman Pasi Koskinen (a.k.a. Itse Ruoja Suruntuoj) — will release its seventh album, "Murhat" (English translation: "Murders") on February 2 via Osasto-A Records.
The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Kunnes Taivas Meidät Erottaa
02. Ihmisen Luku
03. H.A.I.
04. Aura
05. Sokea Liha
06. Routalempi
07. Murheiden Kilta
08. Apilas
09. Veljet
"Murhat" is available for streaming in its entirety on the AJATTARA Facebook page.
AJATTARA recently filmed a video for the song "Kunnes Taivas Meidät Erottaa". Check out photos from the shoot at this location.
AJATTARA will celebrate its 15th anniversary by playing the following shows in Finland:
Feb. 10 - Jyväskylä, Lutakko
Feb. 11 - Helsinki, Nosturi
Feb. 12 - Salo, Rockin Hood
Feb. 16 - Turku, Klubi
Feb. 17 - Tampere, Yo-Talo
Feb. 18 - Joensuu, Kerubi
Feb. 19 - Kouvola, Rytmi-Katti
Back in April 2009, "Noitumaa", the sixth album from AJATTARA, entered the official chart in the group's home country at position No. 8.
AJATTARA is:
Itse Ruoja Suruntuoja (Pasi Koskinen) - Vocals, Guitar, Keyboards
Kalmos (Vesa Wahlroos) - Guitar, Backing Vocals
Tartunta (Mynni Luukkainen) - Guitar
Tohtori Kuolio (Juha Harju) - Bass, Backing Vocals
Malakias IV (Tonmi Lillman) - Drums
For more information, visit www.ajattara.fi.
Norway's THEATRE OF TRAGEDY will release a concert DVD, "Last Curtain Call", in May via AFM Records. According ot the band, "the live [footage] itself is finished and we are waiting to get the audiomix and master back. We are also working on some bonusmaterial like a tour movie, last rehearsal and the band meet up for the first time since October to do some in-depth interviews for the DVD."
The DVD will also include a bonus live CD disc with the best 10 tracks from the gig. In addition there will also most likely be a separate double live CD for those that want experience only the audio.
The "Last Curtain Call" cover artwork was created by Haakon Hoseth and can be viewed below. The original painting was by the band's longtime artist and friend Truls Espedal.
"Last Curtain Call" track listing:
01. Hide And Seek
02. Bring Forth Ye Shadow
03. Lorelei
04. Frozen
05. Ashes And Dreams
06. A Rose For The Dead
07. Fragment
08. And When He Falleth
09. Venus
10. Hollow
11. Storm
12. Image
13. Cassandra
14. A Hamlet For A Slothful Vassal
15. Fade
16. Machine
17. Der Tanz Der Schatten
18. Forever Is The World
THEATRE OF TRAGEDY announced in March 2010 that it was calling it quits, stating, "This has not been an easy decision to make and we have thought about this for a long long time. We finally agreed to this during the production of our latest album, 'Forever Is The World'.
"Over the years all of us have strived to combine the THEATRE with everyday life but in the end it has proven more and more difficult.
"We have come to appreciate our family lives and jobs, which makes it very hard to continue this life of rock 'n' roll on the road."
THEATRE OF TRAGEDY released a a limited-edition tour version of its seventh album, "Forever Is The World", in March 2010 to coincide with the band's European shows. The set included a new EP called "Addenda" and featured 10 tracks of b-sides, rarities, remakes and remixes.
"Forever Is The World" was released in September 2009 via AFM Records. The follow-up to 2006's "Storm" was recorded at Room 13 studios in Oslo with producer Alexander Møklebust, who has previously worked with ZEROMANCER, SEIGMEN, GÅTE, MONOMEN and DELAWARE, among others. The mastering was handled by Bjørn Engelmann at the Cutting Room in Sweden.
"Forever Is The World" was made available in three different versions: a limited digipack with one bonus song, a very limited double vinyl version with two bonus tracks (one exclusive to the vinyl edition!) and a regular jewelcase.
Rick Landers of Guitar International recently conducted an interview with Myles Kennedy (ALTER BRIDGE, SLASH). A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.
Guitar International: Has ALTER BRIDGE ever had a down period when things weren't happening for you guys, and you questioned whether you should continue or things weren't really gonna break for you? I know that your first album went gold, but did you ever have a down period where you thought, "You know, this isn't working," and you really had to hold together the inner strength of the band to keep moving forward.
Myles: Sure. There have certainly been ups and downs over the course of the last seven years and I think that for me personally, I question things because it's such a tough business. But, when we go out and play, it was a lot of our diehard supporters, the people that would keep coming to the shows. They would keep me energized and make me realize this is something we can't turn our backs on, because these people still like what we do. And as long as they're there, we've got to keep making records and touring. Until we're showing up to the venue and it's the sound of crickets and no one's in the building, we'll keep trying to push forward.
Guitar International: Did you know [Slash] before you got on the road with him?
Myles: I actually met him, I guess it was late 2009. He asked me to be part of his solo record. It worked out well and he basically brought up the idea of touring together, so we started doing that last year. Yeah, it's been a very cool thing and we're definitely gonna do more in the future.
Guitar International: How do you guys mesh creatively? What do you bring to the mix?
Myles: It's cool because he's definitely got a certain groove and a certain kind of funkiness, for lack of a better word, and that's something that I really love. As a singer, since I started singing based off that feel, it's really easy for me to make that transition going from ALTER BRIDGE. It's definitely more hard rock metal, very straight and mechanical with some of the guitar parts and whatnot. You juxtapose Slash, it's definitely more groove-oriented. There's just a certain vibe that I really enjoy getting to sing over. It's been good.
Guitar International: Do you have any plans for a solo album?
Myles: It's funny. When they did the CREED reunion, that was what I planned and I spent all of 2009 putting together this solo record. It's pretty much recorded. I have to finish the vocals on it, but then I got the call from Slash and so now it's just a matter of trying to find a window to release it. Actually the other day Slash and I were talking and he was like, "So, when are you gonna release that solo record?" and I looked at him and said, "I don't know." Everything's just filling up, between Slash and ALTER BRIDGE touring schedules and recordings and whatnot, there's only so much time.
Guitar International: Sure. Is it an acoustic album or is it electric?
Myles: It's a little bit of both, but definitely the foundation of it is more singer-songwriter than anything I've done in the past or been a part of. Most of the songs are borne out of me sitting with an acoustic guitar. But, once we got in the studio and put the arrangements together, then we, just for the sake of dynamics and whatnot, found that electric just fit in nicely. Hopefully, one day we'll get it out there and people can hear it.
After stints with KMFDM, MARILYN MANSON and SKOLD VS. KMFDM as producer/songwriter/guitarist/bassist, Tim Skold will return this spring with his first full-length solo album in 15 years, "Anomie". Delivering a snarky CD single prelude on April 12 via Metropolis Records, "Suck", setting the stage for a May 10 full album release, SKOLD steps up once again, supplying sonic solvent for the huffing social cynics.
According to a press release, "Suck" raises a flag taken up by cohorts and allies like COMBICHRIST, KMFDM, 16VOLT and FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY, who have shown up to contribute their own remixes of the track. Three additional SKOLD tracks round out the single-cum-EP: "I Will Not Forget", "Bullets Ricochet" and "A Dark Star".
"Suck" single track listing:
01. Suck (3:35)
02. Suck - Suck And Mop Up (16VOLT remix) (3:36)
03. Suck - Down On Your Knees (FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY remix) (6:34)
04. Suck - Gag It And Tag It (COMBICHRIST remix) (4:28)
05. Suck - My Glock (BITTEREN ENDE remix) (4:27)
06. I Will Not Forget (5:02)
07. A Dark Star (4:44)
08. Bullets Ricochet (5:59)
Gestating through production and composition with such artists as KMFDM and MARILYN MANSON, producing feats like the #1 Billboard-charting album "The Golden Age Of Grotesque" (featuring the song "mOBSCENE", which was nominated for a Grammy Award for "Best Metal Performance") and the critically acclaimed "Eat Me, Drink Me", Skold arrived prodigiously throughout 2009, having dispatched the album SKOLD VS. KMFDM and three new solo teaser tracks — "I Will Not Forget", "Bullets Ricochet" and "A Dark Star" — garnished with validation by accolades of TV placement in shows like "NCIS" and "FlashForward", and rabid fan consumption.
For more information, visit www.skold.com.
ALL HAIL THE YETI, the Los Angeles-based band featuring guitarist Brian Harrah (PROFESSIONAL MURDER MUSIC, THE MERCY CLINIC), will return to the live circuit on February 8 when the group is scheduled to support TIMES OF GRACE at the Troubadour in West Hollywood, California. Also slated to appear are WAR OF AGES and STRAIGHT LINE STITCH.
ALL HAIL THE YETI's sound "brutally intertwines PANTERA-esque southern metal grooves with hostile doses of grimy hardcore," according to the band's official bio. "Like true pioneers of metal, ALL HAIL THE YETI bleeds the blood of seasoned veterans who have molded their experiences from past projects and influences together, cultivating an orchestra of deep-seeded rage planted with southern roots."
ALL HAIL THE YETI's debut five-song EP, "Trees On Fire With Songs Of Blood", came out last year and is available on iTunes.
ALL HAIL THE YETI is:
Connor Garritty (vocals)
Brian Harrah (guitars)
Nicholas Diltz (bass)
Glendon Crain (drums)
For more information, visit the ALL HAIL THE YETI Facebook page.
Greek modern metallers INSIDEAD will release their debut album, "Chaos Elecdead", on April 29 via Massacre Records. The CD was produced by Roberto Dimitri Liapakis at Prophecy and Music Factory studios in Germany, and was mixed and mastered by Liapakis and Christian Schmid (MYSTIC PROPHECY, SUICIDAL ANGELS, SACRED STEEL). The cover artwork was created by Meran Karanitant (SIX FEET UNDER, HATEBREED, DIMMU BORGIR).
A trailer for the album can be viewed below.
According to a press release, "Chaos Elecdead" is "a mixture of heavy, thrash, and deathcore elements with a modern touch that does neglect to include that warm and powerful feeling of the favorite music that we grew up with. Powerful yet broken riffs, using past and present inspirations, with melodic out brakes and solo parts that characterize this band as a fresh breath in the metal music scene. INSIDEAD deliver strong compositions, played by their hands beginning to end and aspiring to blow you away."
Commented Liapakis: "INSIDEAD are a breath of fresh air in the metal scene today as they tastefully combine classic heavy metal elements and modern ideas, keeping their playing real by recording all parts themselves note for note and producing the sound of the 21st century with a feeling in the vein of pure heavy metal."
Added bassist Nick M: "After years of hard work, both the timing and the people we worked with were right for us to find a label that can support our work and give us the stepping stone to present our music to a larger audience. We are grateful to our producer, R.D. Liapakis, and Massacre Records, whose faith in us was a reward by itself for the years of hard work and determination. We feel that the hardest part is to keep our consistency from now and prove they were right in believing in us."
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/insidead.
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The back catalog from British thrashers ACID REIGN has been remastered and reissued via Lost and Found Records.
Formed in 1985, ACID REIGN recorded the "Moshkinstein" demo in 1987, and was soon signed to the British label Under One Flag in 1988 to record the "Moshkinstein" EP. After gaining support slots with such acts as FLOTSAM AND JETSAM, DEATH ANGEL, NUCLEAR ASSAULT and EXODUS, ACID REIGN quickly made a buzz in the metal scene throughout Europe. The band's first full-length album, titled "The Fear", was released in 1989, and their final album, "Obnoxious", in 1990. After the band's break-up, a collection of demos and live tracks were released under the title "The Worst Of Acid Reign".
Legendary producer Bill Metoyer, who has worked with such bands as SLAYER, D.R.I., SACRED REICH and CORROSION OF CONFORMITY, remastered all three albums — "Moshkinstein", "The Fear" and "Obnoxious". Included in the reissues is bonus material, including the original "Moshkinsten" demo (remastered from the original master tapes), "Hangin' On The Telephone" single, and "Humanoia" EP.
All three remastered albums are also available for download from all major on line stores. The original version of "The Worst Of" will also be made available for download for the first time.
ACID REIGN's "Obnoxious", or as it is known to many, "The Pink Album", also holds the No. 1 spot on Terrorizer magazine's worst metal album covers of all time, an honor the band holds in high regard.
Former vocalist Howard "H" Smith can be found on the comedy circuit in the U.K. as Keith Platt-Professional Yorkshireman.
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/acidreignthrash.
REVOKER has set "Revenge For The Ruthless" as the title of its debut album, due on May 2 via Roadrunner Records. The CD was recently completed at Nott-In-Pill and Junkyard studios in Newport with producer Benji Webbe (SKINDRED).
The Welsh quartet fuses dangerous thrash riffs with infectious choruses. Songs like "Stay Down" rise with anthemic hooks, while others, such as "Psychoville", converge bruising melodies and unpredictable vocals.
The United Kingdom has produced some of hard rock and heavy metal's most beloved acts, and these four lads from Wales are set to continue that tradition. "It's the new old school." lead guitarist Chris Green asserts, "All of our influences are classic metal and hard rock bands, but we channel them into our own sound. Each song tells a story and has a beginning, middle, and end. That keeps things interesting."
While there's an essence of METALLICA and MACHINE HEAD pulsating at the heart of REVOKER's debut, there's a distinct, fresh attitude leading the charge. REVOKER's first single, "Stay Down", proudly brandishes that free and rebellious spirit. With its pounding refrain and bombastic guitars, the song is a veritable fist-pumping brawler. "It's basically about a weekend where we live," declares Green. "You go out, have a few drinks, and get in a scuffle but it's a good time. We're the odd ones out in South Wales. We've got long hair, love heavy rock music and don't play rugby. We're always fighting back."
For more information, visit www.revoker.net.
Blood & Ink Records has announced the vinyl pressing of FIGURE FOUR's seminal hardcore album, "Suffering The Loss" (2003). Details are still coming together, but the label plans to have the LP out in time for the band's planned reunion at Rain Fest 2011 in late May, if not earlier.
For those unfamiliar with FIGURE FOUR, the band was formed in 1996 and features members who would later form such fan favorites as COMEBACK KID and GRAVE MAKER.
FIGURE FOUR has released three albums to date: "No Weapon Formed Against Us" (1999, Facedown Records), "When It's All Said And Done" (2001, Facedown Records) and "Suffering The Loss" (2003, Solid State Records).
Jacksonville, Florida hard rockers COLD will release their long-awaited fifth album, "Superfiction" (formerly "Epic"), on June 28 via Eleven Seven Music/SonicStar Records. The CD will reportedly contain ten tracks, including "Wicked World", a cover of AEROSMITH's "Dream On", "My Religion", "Star Of The Parade", "What Happens Now", "Welcome To My World", "So Long June", "The Ballad Of Nameless", and "Flight Of The Superstar".
"Wicked World" is available for streaming in the YouTube clip below.
COLD released its self-titled debut album in the summer of 1998. After steadily building a solid touring base, the band returned in 2000 with its sophomore effort, "13 Ways to Bleed on Stage", which peaked at #1 on Billboard's Heatseekers chart and brought the band its first appearance within the Top 100 on The Billboard 200 chart. In 2003, COLD scored its biggest hit to date with "Stupid Girl" (co-written by WEEZER's Rivers Cuomo) off "Year of the Spider". The smash single went to #4 at Mainstream Rock and #6 at Modern Rock. "Year of the Spider" went all the way to #3 on The Billboard 200 chart, followed by "A Different Kind of Pain" in 2005, which went to #26 on the same chart.
COLD is:
Scooter Ward (Vocals, Keyboards, Guitar)
Zach Gilbert (Guitar)
Jeremy Marshall (Bass, Vocals)
Sam McCandless (Drums)
Drew Molleur (Guitar)
Swedish metallers MORIFADE will release their long-awaited fourth full-length album, "Empire Of Souls", on September 9 via Rock It Up Records /IceWarrior Records. The CD was recorded at White Light Studio in Linköping and contains ten tracks featuring the band's latest additions, Kristian Wallin (vocals) and Mathias Kamijo (guitar).
MORIFADE was previously signed to Holland's Karmageddon Media (formerly Hammerheart Records), the label that issued the band's most recent album, "Domi<>nation" (2004).
German heavy/power metallers SCAVANGER will release their debut album, "Between The Devil And The Sea", in September via Rock It Up Records. The CD contains 12 tracks and features guest appearances by Axel Ritt (GRAVE DIGGER, DOMAIN) on guitar, Ferdy Doernberg (AXEL RUDI PELL, ROUGH SILK) on keyboards, Carsten Lizard Schulz (EVIDENCE ONE, DOMAIN) on vocals and Tommy Vitaly (SEVEN GATES) on guitar. The cover artwork was designed by Steve Santana and can be viewed below.
SCAVANGER's sound will appeal to "fans of Teutonic heavy metal á la GRAVE DIGGER, STORMWITCH or TYRAN' PACE plus influences from IRON MAIDEN and the NWOBHM," according to a press release.
SCAVANGER previously released two demo CDs.
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Croatian female-fronted gothic metal band OMEGA LITHIUM has issued the following update:
"Recently, we've been repeatedly faced with the question 'What's the concept/theme of the upcoming record?' It's a tough one, but we've decided to give some insight...
"Dig deep into yourself. Beyond the objective reasoning, and pass the underlying subconsciousness. Examine the architecture of the place where your dreams, hopes and fears are born. Face the shadows roaming through the vast space where everything is possible. The new record is all about rage, power, lust and sins. It is a time bomb that can't wait to explode..."
Fan-filmed video footage of OMEGA LITHIUM performing the song "Nebula" at last year's edition of the Metal Female Voices Fest, which was held October 22-24, 2010 at Oktoberhallen in Wieze, Belgium, can be viewd below.
OMEGA LITHIUM's debut album, "Dreams In Formaline", was released in North America in April 2010 via Artoffact Records. The North American version of the CD includes a bonus track, "Ocean Dream", and a different cover.
"Dreams In Formaline" was released in Europe in September 2009 via Drakkar Records.
OMEGA LITHIUM's sound is described in the band's official bio as "the vision of a reformed society's way of thinking. The aggression of the distorted guitars, the simplicity of the electro beats, wrapped in a haunting atmosphere, and a rebellious point of view through it. Influenced by industrial, metal, gothic and rock, emerges a distinct sound that creates the passage through the ruined world of inner destruction."
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/omegalithium.
"True Pain Is Screamless." These are the words of notorious serial killer Marcus Miller The Orphan Killer. His murderous rampage is being discovered by thousands of Facebook fans daily. Most people can't figure out if it is a movie or a REAL killer. The movie is pure "jaw-dropping madness" and truly "gore-riffic." The soundtrack is one that every metal and hardcore music lover will salivate over.
"The Orphan Killer" is a tour de force murder flick that defies classification. It goes far beyond current trends in gore and breaks open a new suffering genre of horror. Marcus Miller is a serial murderer hellbent on teaching his estranged sister Audrey what it means to have family loyalty. His lessons are taught in massive doses of vulgar and unimaginable pain. Throughout her brutal torture we learn that Marcus is not the only Miller with Killer in the bloodline as Audrey proves to be a formidable adversary.
Director extraordinaire Matt Farnsworth elaborates: "'The Orphan Killer' is the new horror icon and its soundtrack is made of future metal Gods. Never before has a film and soundtrack been combined to create an instant icon in the horror genre."
The soundtrack kicks off with the pivotal song from San Francisco's FIRST BLOOD, also titled "First Blood", with the classic opening line, "They drew first blood, not fucking me!". Rounding out the soundtrack are unreleased new songs from ASKING ALEXANDRIA and BORN OF OSIRIS, as well as new tracks from some of the best new bands in metal and hard rock.
"The Orphan Killer: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack" will be sold exclusively on Facebook, through the Milyoni-powered "The Orphan Killer" store, with the DVD and Blu-ray versions of the film to be released on Valentine's Day, February 14.
"The Orphan Killer: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack" track listing:
01. FIRST BLOOD - "First Blood" (Bullet Tooth)
02. AFFIANCE - "Nostra Culpa" (Bullet Tooth)
03. ASKING ALEXANDRIA - "Someone, Somewhere" (Sumerian)
04. DECEPTION OF A GHOST - "These Voices" (Bullet Tooth)
05. ANEW REVOLUTION - "Head Against The Wall" (E1 Entertainment)
06. THIS OR THE APOCALYPSE - "Charmer" (Good Fight Music)
07. MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD - "A Danger To Myself And Others" (Bullet Tooth)
08. A BULLET FOR A PRETTY BOY - "The Deceiver" (Artery Recordings)
09. DAWN OF ASHES - "Seething the Flesh in the River of Phlegethon" (Metal Blade)
10. FIRST BLOOD - "Conflict" (Bullet Tooth)
11. BORN OF OSIRIS - "Follow The Signs" (Sumerian)
12. NO BRAGGING RIGHTS - "Death Of An Era" (BlkHrt Group)
13. FIRST BLOOD - "Execution" (Bullet Tooth)
Atlanta, Georgia-based metallers BECOMING THE ARCHETYPE will release their fourth album, "Celestial Completion", on March 29 via Solid State Records. The CD was produced by Matt Goldman (UNDEROATH, THE CHARIOT, COPELAND) and contains 11 tracks.
"Celestial Completion" track listing:
01. The Resonant Frequency of Flesh
02. The Magnetic Sky
03. Internal Illumination
04. Path of the Beam
05. Music of the Spheres: Requiem Aeternam Part I (instrumental)
06. Elemental Wrath: Requiem Aeternam Part II
07. Xenosynthesis: Requiem Aeternam Part III
08. Invisible Creature (instrumental)
09. Cardiac Rebellion
10. Reflect/Refract
11. Breathing Light
Atlanta, Georgia-based metallers BECOMING THE ARCHETYPE will release their fourth album, "Celestial Completion", on March 29 via Solid State Records. The CD was produced by Matt Goldman (UNDEROATH, THE CHARIOT, COPELAND) and contains 11 tracks.
In a recent interview with AOL's Noisecreep, BECOMING THE ARCHETYPE guitarist Seth Hecox promised that the new CD would feature a bunch of surprises. "We've incorporated more things than a person can imagine on this record," he said. "Of course the album is still heavy, but other than that, the sound is stretched as much as possible."
He added, "We have Dennis Culp of FIVE IRON FRENZY playing trombone on a ska section of track nine. We [also] have an epic Danny Elfman intro complete with operatic soprano vocals and four-part harmony. We have a track of just sitar and tambura and Tablas — metal world, meet the East!"
"Dichotomy", the third album from BECOMING THE ARCHETYPE, sold around 2,300 copies in the United States in its first week of release back in November 2008. The CD debuted at No. 18 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.
Rocksins recently conducted an interview with bassist Alex Webster of Florida death metallers CANNIBAL CORPSE. A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.
Rocksins: CANNIBAL CORPSE have been together now for over 20 years, what keeps you guys motivated after all these years?
Alex: We still really love to play this kind of music. Of course, we need to make a living as well and this band is our career so that's a motivator, too, but our love of death metal is still the strongest driving force. We really feel that we have yet to make our best album, and we won't be satisfied until we have made something that we can consider our masterwork. We may never get there, but we'll keep trying.
Rocksins: At the moment, you currently have no tour plans for 2011; can we expect something to be announced soon?
Alex: Most likely not. We have no plans to tour in 2011. We are currently home in the Tampa Bay Area writing our next album, we'll record it in September so that will leave us with an early 2012 release. So, we'll probably wait to tour until the album is released.
Rocksins: You have a new DVD coming out in February called "Global Evisceration". Can you tell us a bit about that?
Alex: The DVD was filmed in several different countries that we visited on the "Evisceration Plague" world tour. It has lots of concert footage as well as behind-the-scenes footage. Denise Korycki, the filmmaker behind our "Centuries Of Torment" DVD, also made this one, and once again we feel she has done an excellent job.
Rocksins: The last two CANNIBAL CORPSE albums have been a lot less graphic in terms of the album art. Has this been a conscious decision or something that has naturally happened?
Alex: A little of both I guess. We prefer darker and more ominous covers these days as opposed to the bright, graphically violent splatter themes of our older covers. It seems to fit the music we're currently making a bit better. Also, having a less graphic cover helps to ensure it will be available in record stores. These days many record stores are out of business, so if we can't get our album into the few that remain there would be little point in releasing a physical product. The way around this problem that works out best for us and our fans is to have two pieces of art for the album. A darker, less graphic cover and then something more violent and graphic inside. The censors seem to ignore the interior artwork so the problem of being banned from record stores is avoided. Also, our fans seem to enjoy getting two pieces of art instead of just one.
Belgian self-styled hell rock'n rollers PLAAG will release their debut album, "UGH!", on January 30 via Norway's MisantrofANTIRecords. The CD was recorded during 2009 and 2010, and was engineered and produced by PLAAG founder and frontman Somber, while mastering was carried out by CARPATHIAN FOREST bassist Daniel Vrangsinn.
"UGH!", which is described by Somber as a "a piece of pure, get-down-and-have-a-good-time black 'n' roll," is available both in CD format, and, in keeping with Misantrof's policy, is also available for free download in high-quality MP3 with complete artwork at plaag.misantrof.net.
Originally formed as a one-man project in 2009 by Somber, who performs vocals and plays all the instruments on the album, PLAAG is inspired by early black metal, but with a touch of twisted humor. A live lineup featuring Razend on drums, Triest and Mist on guitar and Lava on bass came together in 2010, and will make its live debut during 2011.
Although "UGH!" is the first full length release from the band, it is not the first time that PLAAG has appeared on Misantrof, having contributed tracks to the label's tongue-in-cheek annual "Holy Fucking ANTIChristmas" albums in both 2009 and 2010.
Misantrof ANTIRecords is home to bands like EPISODE 13, NIERTY, PROFANE PRAYER, as well as releasing archive material from some of the cult bands and musicians from the Norwegian black metal scene. The label, headed by Daniel Vrangsinn, and which recently celebrated its fourth anniversary, is a 100% non-profit organization, allowing all its artists to maintain complete control of their material and their earnings.
Below you can see a promo video of the unmastered version of "Silently Beaten to Death" from PLAAG's "UGH!"
Finnish black metallers SATANIC WARMASTER have been removed from the billing of this year's Hellfest festival — set to take place June 17-19, 2011 in Clisson, France — because the event's organizers allegedly bowed to pressure from other artists performing at the festival.
Commented SATANIC WARMASTER's Werwolf in a statement: "It has been brough to my attention that the organizers of the festival cannot hold on to our agreement to have SATANIC WARMASTER perform at the 2011 Hellfest. This was because of pressure put to the organizers by other artists booked on the festival.
"It is a disappointment (despite being totally expected) to see such mentality still present in the 'individualist' and 'free-thinking' metal community that any musical act can still be boycotted because of false preconceptions and arbitrary political motivations of other, 'bigger' artists. It is also more than amusing to see that the censorship and boycott some of the French authorities tried to push on the festival earlier are now excercised by the festival organization itself.
"Obviously, because I have never upheld any modern taboos or lived my life as an apologetic dabbler, it makes me also a target for politically motivated artists to keep us from playing because of their self-righteous reasons. Any artist can be put on a mock trial by taking words out of their context without thinking of the actual message, and SATANIC WARMASTER once again hangs crucified by hysterics driven by the love for a world and values I feel no oneness with.
"Everyone who has even slightest interest in this musical style knows what black metal is about, and in that light only a moralist or someone with a very extreme double standard can say that SATANIC WARMASTER is in some manner different from other artists of the genre.
"It makes me want to puke for making a statement like this, which is almost something that a politician would do, but to clear some things, it was mandatory to bite the bullet this time.
"Just to make sure everyone has their labels right, SATANIC WARMASTER's ideology is Satanism and music style black metal. Whoever claims otherwise does so only because of personal feelings and/or resentment."
SATANIC WARMASTER started in 1998 has has sold tens of thousands of albums worldwide without the support of any major distribution companies or record labels. The band reflects a Satanist's world view and is known for its unapologetic, arrogant and amoral stance.
Formed in late 2010 by Randy Piro (GIGAN, HATE ETERNAL), ORBWEAVER was brought to life with the purpose of reshaping our physical realm through the use of ritual acoustics... Ultimately creating a tonal laboratory of sorts for the band to experiment sonically with no restraint or boundaries.
During the summer of 2010, Randy met drummer Mike Pena after a performance with Pena's band NUCLEAR INFANTRY. Both musicians shared the desire to create music and summon forces beyond comprehension, and shortly after the ORBWEAVER nucleus was formed.
ORBWEAVER's music is both chaotic, and sparse creating a terra-forma of bizarre environments for the experiencer to explore... Strangers, Atonal Druids, and ecology eating liquid forms of life are just a few of the inhabits of this strange, and swarthy sonic world.
In January 2011 ORBWEAVER reveals itself to the masses with an early glimpse into their stylistically twisted world of modulating realities, and ceremonial dissonance.
Swedish technical death metallers VISCERAL BLEEDING have issued the following update:
"As many of you probably know, we are still one guitarist short. Since we parted ways with Martin Bermheden and Peter Persson left the band we've recruited old PROSTITUTE DISFIGUREMENT guitarist Benny Bats to take over the rhythm-guitar spot. We've tried out a couple of different guys for the lead-guitarist spot, but for various reasons none of them have worked out. So now we're doing a new sweep for a lead guitarist.
"Anyone who's interested in the spot is welcome to contact us at: leadguitaristVB@gmail.com.
"Please take the following things in consideration first before sending in your application:
* You need to be a great guitarist with a burning passion for pushing your own boundaries
* Being able to take things out by ear because there are no tablatures for the solos
* Previous studio- and touring experience is preferable, being able to tour is a must!
* The closer you live to Sweden the better
* Have professional and relaxed attitude
* Must be able to make VISCERAL BLEEDING one of your main priorities for things to work out
"Also, feel free to include a short biography."
VISCERAL BLEEDING's third full-length album, "Absorbing the Disarray", was released in 2007 via Neurotic Records.
German death metallers FRAGMENTS OF UNBECOMING are working on material for their fifth album, tentatively titled "The Art Of Coming Apart", for a late 2011 release. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Trapping The Unseen", "Hours Of Suffering" and "Memorial Stone".
FRAGMENTS OF UNBECOMING's fourth album, "The Everhaunting Past / Chapter IV - A Splendid Retrospection", came out in October 2009 via Cyclone Empire Records. The CD's cover artwork was once again created by Sascha Ehrich.
FRAGMENTS OF UNBECOMING in 2009 announced the addition of bassist Christopher Körtgen (SMILODON, CHAOS HD) to the group's ranks.
The band's third album, "Sterling Black Icon", was released in March 2006 via Metal Blade.
Greek extreme metallers ROTTING CHRIST will embark on a European headlining tour in April. Support on the trek will come from OMNIUM GATHERUM (Finland), DAYLIGHT MISERY (Greece) and DARK END (Italy).
The dates are as follows:
Apr. 28 - Wiatrak - Zabrze, Poland
Apr. 29 - Melodka - Brno, Czech Republic
Apr. 30 - Colloseum - Kosice, Slovakia
May 01 - Club 202 - Colloseum, Hungary
May 02 - Gambrinus - Cluj Napoca, Romania
May 03 - Dublin - Iasi, Romania
May 04 - Silverchurch - Bucharest, Romania
May 05 - Rbf Club - Sofia, Bulgaria
May 06 - Cinemas Sloga - Sarajevo, Bosnia
May 07 - Mmc Slavija - Osijek, Croatia
May 08 - Gala Hala - Ljubljana, Slovenia
May 09 - Escape - Vienna, Austria
May 10 - Kulturfabrik Kufstein - Worgl, Austria
May 11 - Pieffe Factory - Gorizia, Italy
May 12 - Arci Onirica - Parma, Italy
May 13 - Industrie 45 - Zug, Switzerland
May 14 - Rnr Arena - Novara - Italy
May 15 - Init Club - Rome, Italy
ROTTING CHRIST will embark on a North American tour in March/April. Support on the trek will come from MELECHESH, HATE, ABIGAIL WILLIAMS and LECHEROUS NOCTURNE.
"Aealo", the new album from ROTTING CHRIST, sold around 400 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 144 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.
"Aealo" was recorded at Lunatach Studios in Katerini, Greece and features guest appearances by Greek-American vocalist Diamanda Galas and PRIMORDIAL frontman Alan A. Nemtheanga.
According to a press release, "Aealo" delves deeper than ever before into ROTTING CHRIST's Greek roots. Frontman Sakis Tolis explains: "'Aealo' is the transcription of an ancient Greek word into the Latin alphabet. It means thrashing, catastrophe or destruction and reflects the musical and lyrical content of the album.
"The concept of 'Aealo' deals with the feelings of a warrior during a battle, therefore the album's title bears this sense of anger, fear and grief."
Diamanda Galas makes an appearances on ROTTING CHRIST's cover version of "Orders from the Dead", from Galas' "Defixiones, Will and Testament" album, for which Sakis wrote new music.
Long-defunct French death metallers MERCYLESS — who are responsible for releasing one of the most underrated death albums of all time in the shape of 1992's "Abject Offerings" — have returned "in a brutal death metal style like in the '90s," according to a press release.
To celebrate the band's reformation, a new collectors' double CD has been made available via Legion Of Death Records. Entitled "In Memory Of Agrazabeth", it features demos and live recordings from the 1988-1993 period.
MERCYLESS is currently working on new material "in a very intense and brutal death metal style, in the vein of 'Abject Offerings'."
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