According to Billboard.com, IRON MAIDEN ranks third — behind LADY GAGA and PRINCE — on the latest Hot Tours list, with totals reported from its "Final Frontier World Tour" that began in June 2010 and included dates in both North America and Europe. The tour resumed in 2011 with a February 11 concert in Moscow at Olympiski, a massive indoor arena built for the 1980 Summer Olympics. Attendance for the performance in Russia was 16,439 with ticket sales topping $2 million (US$). A show in Singapore followed on February 15 with 9,785 in the house at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, the country's largest indoor entertainment venue.
IRON MAIDEN was honored with a Grammy in the "Best Metal Performance" category in the pre-telecast ceremony at the 53rd annual Grammy Awards, which was held on February 13 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. IRON MAIDEN was nominated for the track "El Dorado", from the band's 2010 album "The Final Frontier".
"The Final Frontier" sold 63,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to enter The Billboard 200 chart at position No. 4.
IRON MAIDEN's previous album, 2006's "A Matter Of Life And Death", opened with 56,000 units to land at No. 9. This was a notable increase from the 40,000 first-week tally registered by its predecessor, 2003's "Dance of Death" (which debuted at No. 18 on The Billboard 200 chart), and that of "Brave New World", which moved 38,000 copies in June 2000 to land at No. 39 on The Billboard 200 chart.
"The Final Frontier" was IRON MAIDEN's fourth U.K. No. 1 album. The band previously topped the chart in 1982 with "The Number of the Beast", in 1988 with "Seventh Son of a Seventh Son" and in 1992 with "Fear of the Dark".
The Pulse Of Radio reports that METALLICA's record label is for sale — and one person interested in buying it is the man who founded Napster, against which METALLICA fought a legal battle more than a decade ago. According to All Things Digital, Napster founder Sean Parker is in talks to team up with two other private investors to purchase the Warner Music Group, where METALLICA has been making records since 1984.
Back in 2000, METALLICA launched legal action against Napster, claiming that the pioneering music file-sharing service was illegally allowing users to download METALLICA tracks without paying royalties to the band. Although the case was settled out of court, 300,000 users were banned from Napster as a result and METALLICA's image took a tremendous beating in the eyes of music fans.
Napster's legal battles continued with Warner Music Group and other labels until the service finally went under in 2002.
Parker, who later became a billionaire by helping to launch Facebook, may now make a bid for his old enemies' label, which is suffering from the same woes as the rest of the traditional music industry.
Parker was portrayed by Justin Timberlake in the recent, Oscar-winning movie about the start of Facebook, "The Social Network".
METALLICA drummer Lars Ulrich, who was the main spokesperson for METALLICA in the Napster battle, later admitted that he wished he had dealt with the situation differently.
Even if Parker succeeds in buying WMG — and four other parties are said to be in the race as well — he might not get to be METALLICA's boss after all. The band's last effort, 2008's "Death Magnetic", was its last under its current contract, and it is not known whether the group has re-signed with the label.
METALLICA frontman James Hetfield told The Pulse Of Radio a while back that the band has yet to decide what its future plans are for distribution of its music. "It's kind of a good feeling to feel that you're free from any piece of paper that binds you to something," he said. "But over our career, we've learned a lot about record companies, the goods and evils of the business and this and that, and we're not very focused on that right now. It is what it is, and when it becomes time for us to either renegotiate or shop around or do things ourselves or something like that, we don't know. There's nothing but options, which is great."
In a 2003 interview with Launch, Lars about the band's battle with Napster, "Most of the time, it's like a bad dream, like what the fuck was that? [Several] years later, it's like did that really happen? We went from being somewhat well-respected, well-liked, and then I woke up one day and all of a sudden I was the most hated man in rock 'n' roll. It was like, huh? Me? What did I do wrong? I'm one of the good guys. That was all kind of weird. If you look at our history, we've always been pretty protective of our own shit. When anybody got too close or fucked with our shit, we always took action. In retrospect, I'm proud of what we did, I really felt sideswiped on that one. In my own little ignorant world, I didn't see it coming. I was completely ignorant and unaware of the magnitude of this issue for people. I was just sitting there in my own little selfish world going, 'I'm going to protect METALLICA. Don't fuck with METALLICA.' Then (explosion sound),
'You're pro-record company, you're greedy!' I'm not pro-record company. We invented being anti-record company. We told our record company to go fuck themselves before anyone else. Stop. It was a very surreal thing, because it was so hard to connect what I read about myself and METALLICA, it was so abstract to what was on my radar about my own reality. People going, 'You're a really greedy little man.' It was like, what are you talking about? We've been giving shit away for years. We want to be the ones giving it away, not someone else. I'm proud of the stance we took. It was a very tough time. It was a much tougher time, because in the middle of that you have to put your best game face on. It was difficult. A lot of that shit hurt and it was very bewildering because it was difficult to connect it to your own reality. For better or worse, it got a good debate started. In retrospect, I'm not claiming any sort of victory — who gives a shit about that?
— I think more people are starting to realize, not that we were right, but this is an issue that is changing the face of everything that is going on. Not only the music world, but the film world is next. What better way to deal with it than at least educate people about it. If nothing else, I look back at the six months in 2000 as the first step in the education."
According to a posting on Rob Zombie's official Twitter profile, a "big tour" announcement will be made this coming Monday, March 28.
Rob Zombie's fourth solo album, "Hellbilly Deluxe 2", debuted at No. 8 on the Billboard album chart on February 10, 2010, selling 49,000 copies in its first week of release. That total was less than 50 percent of the number of copies that his previous effort, "Educated Horses", sold in its first week back in April 2006, when it moved 107,000 copies to land at No. 5 on the chart.
Zombie was originally supposed to issue the album in November 2009 through his longtime label, Geffen Records, but delayed its arrival to February 2, 2010 after abruptly leaving to sign with the Roadrunner label. He admitted to The Pulse of Radio that he was a little unsure at first whether that was the right thing to do. "Well, I mean, it was weird because at first you think like, well, you know, you're on Geffen, do you want to make the switch, should you just change next time on the next record, you know, just ride out what you started," he said. "I struggled with it but I thought, you know, my gut is telling me this is the thing to do because I have a feeling if I put it out in November, the label's not gonna support it, and by December the record will be dead. And I just said, you know, screw it. Whatever the repercussions, let's just do it."
The CD/DVD edition of "Hellbilly Deluxe 2" arrived in stores on September 28, 2010 via Roadrunner Records. The expanded version of the album features three brand new tracks recorded with the band's current touring lineup, including SLIPKNOT drummer/MURDERDOLLS guitarist Joey Jordison, along with a reworked version of the song "The Man Who Laughs". A bonus DVD featuring live footage and a 30-minute touring documentary, dubbed "Transylvanian Transmissions", is also included.
NWOBHM (New Wave Of British Heavy Metal) legends DIAMOND HEAD will perform in Canada for the first time ever this summer as part of the metal festivals Heavy MTL and Heavy T.O. which will both take place the same weekend at the end of July.
Heavy MTL will be held July 23-24 at Parc Jean-Drapeau in Montreal, Quebec. The festival billing is shaping up as follows:
Saturday, July 23 (Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival tour)
DISTURBED
GODSMACK
BILLY TALENT
IN FLAMES
TRIVIUM
UNEARTH
KINDGOM OF SORROW
RED FANG
MACHINE HEAD
DIAMOND HEAD
SUICIDE SILENCE
ALL SHALL PERISH
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH
Sunday, July 24:
KISS
MOTÖRHEAD
OPETH
ANTHRAX
CHILDREN OF BODOM
AS I LAY DYING
THE SWORD
TIMES OF GRACE
DEVILDRIVER
Heavy T.O. will be held July 23-24 at Downsview Park in Toronto, Ontario. The festival billing is shaping up as follows:
Saturday, July 23:
MEGADETH
ANTHRAX
OPETH
MOTORHEAD
CHILDREN OF BODOM
AS I LAY DYING
THE SWORD
TIMES OF GRACE
DEVILDRIVER
Sunday, July 24:
ROB ZOMBIE
BILLY TALENT
SLAYER
MASTODON
TESTAMENT
DIAMOND HEAD
BAPTIZED IN BLOOD
ANVIL
MELISSA AUF DER MAUR
Tickets for Heavy T.O. go on sale on Friday, March 25. Tickets for Heavy MTL go on sale on Saturday, March 26 at noon.
Sean Patrick Dooley of Gibson.com recently conducted an interview with DEF LEPPARD/THIN LIZZY guitarist Vivian Campbell. A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.
Gibson.com: What has it meant to you, playing with THIN LIZZY these last few months?
Vivian: It's been a tremendous pleasure to tour with THIN LIZZY. Playing with a band that meant so much to me in my formative years has really rekindled my passion for the instrument again. I haven't been this excited about guitar playing since I was in my teens!
Gibson.com: Has there been any talk about THIN LIZZY possibly writing and recording new music? Would you take part in that if you could?
Vivian: Yes, and yes. It would be brilliant to go into the studio with the band. THIN LIZZY's songs were always guitar driven, so that would be a very tasty proposition.
Gibson.com: Would you like to be a part of future THIN LIZZY tours, should you be available?
Vivian: Absolutely! However, I continue to be fully committed to DEF LEPPARD, and we're going to be on the road from June of this year, so LIZZY are searching for a replacement for me for their continuing summer dates. They have very kindly offered me the opportunity to come back when my schedule with DEF LEPPARD opens up, and you can bet that I'll be there in a heartbeat!
Gibson.com: DEF LEPPARD has a big tour this summer. Will the band be writing and demoing songs on the road for a new studio album, like you guys did for the "Sparkle Lounge" album?
Vivian: Yes, we will. It's our intention to release a full album of new songs in 2012, and in order to do that we'll have to be writing as we go this summer.
Gibson.com: Late DEF LEPPARD guitarist Steve Clark wasn't a super-human shredder, and his parts are not necessarily challenging for you. Still, you rarely stray from the way he laid it down. Steve's legacy is important to you, isn't it?
Vivian: Steve's solos were more thematic than technical, and as such, they became an integral part of the songs. Your ear wants to hear the melodies that he recorded on the original albums. I try to be as faithful to his parts as I can whilst, at the same time, trying to inject some of the more aggressive aspects of my playing style.
QUEEN guitarist Brian May recently answered a number of reader-submitted questions for the April 2011 issue of U.K.'s Uncut magazine. When asked how he got involved in the making of GUNS N' ROSES "Chinese Democracy" album (in 1999, May recorded a guitar solo for GN'R track "Catcher N' The Rye", which appears on "Chinese Democracy", but his efforts were subsequently removed from the final album version of the song), May replied, "I can't remember when I first met Axl [Rose, GN'R frontman], but we invited them to play the [1992] Freddie [Mercury] tribute. They did a fantastic job, and also donated a lot of money to the Mercury Phoenix Trust. Subsequent to that, my solo band supported GN'R on tour and we got on very well."
He continued, "People think of Axl as difficult, but he was always very attentive to me.
"When they were making that album, after God-knows-how-many years, he was talking to [QUEEN's old producer] Roy Thomas Baker, who was doing some production for them at the time, and they came up with the idea of contacting me to help them work out a direction. I flew out to meet him and he played me pretty much the whole album. We had a long night, talking, thinking, figuring out potential directions, and then I had a couple of days just trying things out. I think I played on two-and-a-half tracks, but they didn't end up using my parts. They used about 10 guitarists subsequent to that! I have rough mixes of these tracks somewhere in my archive, but I'm not going to let anyone listen to them, out of loyalty to Axl.
"It was fun, to throw something in there to help out a friend."
Rose explained the decision to keep Brian's track off the album by saying, "There's a few reasons, and none of them all that big and definitely not in spite or to slight anyone. First off, obviously I knew people liked the song, but the Brian appreciation really only showed up in force publicly after we had moved on in GUNS. In fact, not many seemed to care and most comments were aimed at why Slash, in their opinions, should be here. Brian's solo itself is a personal fave of mine and I really couldn't understand, as he's such a rock legend, why it wasn't openly appreciated more at the time. In actuality, all that feel and emotion referred to now had a lot to do with Sean [Beavan, one of the producers who worked on 'Chinese Democracy'] and I and the parts I chose out of Brian's different runs, versions, practice runs, etc., to make sure we had those elements in one version. It's entirely constructed from edits based around one specific note Brian hit in a
throwaway take. And though Brian seems to have warmed a bit to it, at least publicly, he was unfortunately none too pleased at the time with our handiwork. I remember looking at Brian standing to my left and him staring at the big studio speakers a bit aghast saying, 'But that's not what I played.' Sean Beavan and I were not in any way trying to mess with Brian, we just did what we do and then try and do our best to stand up for our decisions."
Duff McKagan's (VELVET REVOLVER, GUNS N' ROSES, DUFF MCKAGAN'S LOADED) much-anticipated autobiography, "It's So Easy (And Other Lies)", is scheduled to arrive on October 4 via Touchstone Books (formerly Touchstone Fireside), a division of Simon & Schuster.
In a recent interview with Rolling Stone magazine, McKagan stated about the 304-page hardcover book, "It's not really my story, it's really not even my autobiography or memoir. I think that term is overused. It is a story of some shit that happened to me, but probably not the typical [things] what people might expect. It's not my story of GUNS N' ROSES or VELVET REVOLVER. All of those things are sort of in it, because they're things I bounced through as I was getting deeper and deeper into addiction and finding my way out. It was challenging going through some of these things that I hadn't thought about for a long time. And writing forces you to take your own part of your life, of what role you actually played — as opposed to the one you make up later on."
Back in January, McKagan wrote about the autobiography on his Seattle Weekly blog. He said, "Many of you already know that I have been writing a book over the past year or more. Well, this week I got back a first and very rough edit, and I have, for the first time, sat down and read the whole thing. Here's the deal: In writing so much about my own life, I have found so many places where for so long I have placed blame on others for this failure or that shortcoming. It's not like I haven't worked on resentment in my sober life, because I really have. Or so I thought. Both of my parents passed away within the past 10 years. My mom was a saint in my eyes, and raised us eight McKagan kids with the courage of the whole Allied Forces in WWII. I think she knew how much I loved her and appreciated all her lessons shared, but did I tell her all this when she was still alive? Surely not like I would now."
Based on the 40-page proposal that made the rounds of publishing houses in February 2010, McKagan's book will begin on the day in 1994 when his pancreas burst from alcohol abuse. It will recount his rise through the music scene, his fall into drug abuse and his recovery, which included two years of celibacy and a degree in finance from Seattle University.
A sample of Duff's writing which may, or may not, end up in the forthcoming book can be found at SeattleWeekly.com.
Duff's VELVET REVOLVER/GUNS N' ROSES bandmate Slash has published his own book, as has ex-GUNS drummer Steven Adler, who released his life story, "My Appetite for Destruction: Sex, and Drugs, and Guns N' Roses", in July 2010.
Scott Ian is a veritable thrash godfather who has made a living out of pummeling audiences worldwide for decades with his huge sound and formidable chops.
Jackson now honors the longtime ANTHRAX axeman with the Jackson Select Series Scott Ian T-1000 Soloist model.
Designed by Ian himself and acclaimed master builder Mike Shannon, the neck-through-body guitar is based on Ian's '87 Soloist (the one with the New York Yankees logo on it). It has a super-sized mahogany Soloist body with 1/8-inch maple top and Quicksilver finish, and it comes in single and double humbucking pickup configurations.
Features include an oil-finished maple neck, compound radius ebony fingerboard (12- to 16-inch) with 24 jumbo frets and "High Boltage" lightning bolt inlays designed by Shepard Fairey, Ivoroid neck and headstock binding, Seymour Duncan Scott Ian El Diablo bridge pickup and Seymour Duncan '59 neck pickup (two-pickup model only), original Floyd Rose bridge (two-pickup model only) or TonePros Tunamatic bridge (single-pickup model only), black hardware, Schaller strap locks and G&G case.
Ian will miss ANTHRAX's summer shows in Europe (July 2-16) because his wife is expecting their first child. That means Ian will miss all of the currently announced "Big Four" shows (with METALLICA, SLAYER and MEGADETH) with the exception of the April 23 date in Indio, California.
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/soulflypremiere/scottianguitars.jpg
Vocalist Geoff Tate of Seattle-based progressive rockers QUEENSRŸCHE was interviewed for episode 342 of the "Talking Metal" podcast. Tate spoke about the forthcoming QUEENSRŸCHE studio album and his starring role in the psychological thriller "The Burningmoore Incident". The film focuses on the murderous rampage that took place in March 2010 in Bayside, Queens, as the construction team of Cole Contracting was being videotaped by multiple cameras on the first day of what was to be a home makeover reality show.
When asked about the progress of the recording sessions for the new QUEENSRŸCHE CD, Geoff said, "We've been working on it steadily. We're kind of in the final stages of it now. And I'm looking forward to getting that done. It's a really long record, with really interesting, different music. I'm really excited for people to hear it because it's another kind of step in a different direction for us . . . We've been experimenting a lot with different musical brushstrokes [laughs], kind of pushing the envelope a little bit on everybody's performance and pushing them outside of comfortable ground and trying to do some different stuff. Which is kind of what got us into making records in the first place — the experimental side of painting the audio picture. And everybody still shares that way of thinking, which is pretty phenomenal when you think of a bunch of guys hanging out together for 30 years [laughs] — that we'd still have something to say."
Reunited grunge legends SOUNDGARDEN entered singer Chris Cornell's studio in Los Angeles earlier in the month to begin recording their first album in 15 years. Cornell tells Billboard.com in a new interview, "We're pretty far into our record now. I don't really know how to describe it musically, because typically with SOUNDGARDEN... every time we write a song we always take it for what it is and try to make it the most it can be. It's very diverse, I can tell you that."
Cornell says that that unlike the old days when the band was on a constant schedule of recording and touring, they're working in a much more relaxed way now.
"We went into this with the idea that we wouldn't worry about scheduling or timing," Cornell explains to Billboard.com. "We would worry about making a great record; that's kind of where we're at. It's been a pretty fast pace, considering everything. We've really gotten very far very quickly, and it's really exciting. But we're not putting any pressure on ourselves or around the music and just want it to organically be finished without being concerned that, 'Oh, we have to master this on this specific date.' We're not in a situation where we have to rush, and this is one time we're lucky enough that we can afford to...let the album decide when it's done."
Adam Kaspar, who co-produced SOUNDGARDEN's last record, 1996's "Down On The Upside", is working with the group on the new effort as well.
SOUNDGARDEN reunited in January 2010 but has only played a handful of gigs — including a headlining set at last August's Lollapalooza festival in Chicago — and issued a compilation titled "Telephantasm" last fall.
The band's first live album, called "Live On I5", came out on March 22 and was recorded on one of their final tours.
Cornell, who's going out on a solo acoustic tour this spring, told Spin that SOUNDGARDEN will play more live shows this year.
FOREIGNER will perform an exclusive show at the P.C. Richard & Son Theater in New York City on March 30 as part of iHeartRadio Live, a Clear Channel entertainment production that features private performances and interviews with today's top recording artists. The band will play selections from "4" and other songs from their repertoire of sixteen Top 30 songs and radio favorites. Videos from the show will be available on Q1043.com and iheartradio.com.
Released in 1981, "4" was FOREIGNER's fourth studio album and features the hit singles "Urgent", "Waiting for a Girl Like You" and "Juke Box Hero".
"To provide the Q104.3 audience with an exclusive, intimate performance with a band like FOREIGNER in our P.C. Richard & Son Theater is incredible all by itself," said Eric Wellman, Program Director, Q104.3. "To give them the experience of hearing FOREIGNER classics including songs from '4', one of the defining albums in the history of rock, played live right before your eyes is amazing! Six times platinum? Is that all? I can't wait!"
This summer Razor & Tie will release a FOREIGNER live DVD featuring the band's greatest hits filmed in Chicago in March. Razor & Tie will also release a new studio album of FOREIGNER hits, including classics such as "Hot Blooded", "Cold As Ice", "Double Vision", "Waiting For A Girl Like You" and "I Want to Know What Love Is", to name a few. The live DVD performance will be featured in a PBS TV national broadcast in the summer. More details of this exciting event will follow.
"We are very excited to be working with one of the most successful bands in rock history," said Cliff Chenfeld, co-owner of Razor & Tie. "Mick Jones and FOREIGNER are legends and continue to perform and record at a remarkably high level. We are honored to partner with them."
For the first time in over 10 years, FOREIGNER and JOURNEY will hit the road on a national tour. The tour features special guests NIGHT RANGER, and tickets are now on sale through online, phone and physical retail outlets, including select Walmart Ticketmaster locations across the country.
FOREIGNER's Mick Jones says, "This will be one of the main events of the summer. Bands who represent the magic era in classic rock together for the first time in ten years. Get ready to rock!" JOURNEY's Neal Schon adds: "We haven't toured with FOREIGNER for over 10 years, so we're really looking forward to this run."
More than 30 years after releasing their first multi-platinum album, FOREIGNER's music resonates globally across generations with album sales exceeding 70 million. An impressive run of 14 Top 20 hits includes worldwide No. 1 hit "I Want To Know What Love Is", "Cold As Ice", "Double Vision", "Head Games", "Urgent", "Waiting For A Girl Like You" and video game staples such as "Hot Blooded" and "Juke Box Hero". FOREIGNER's tours continue to electrify audiences and establish the group in its rightful place as one of the top touring attractions.
Formed in 1976 by English rocker Mick Jones, FOREIGNER's current lineup includes: Mick Jones (lead guitar), Kelly Hansen (lead vocals, percussion), Jeff Pilson (bass guitar), Tom Gimbel (guitar, saxophone, flute), Michael Bluestein (keyboards), and Mark Schulman (drums).
Armoury Records has announced the details of the new release from German power metallers GAMMA RAY.
Set for release in the U.S. and Canada on May 31 via Armoury Records/Eagle Rock Entertainment, "Skeletons & Majesties" is a collection of songs GAMMA RAY gathered from previous albums represented in two completely different styles. The purpose of the disc is simply to have fun, and to give fans a heads-up on what is in store for the band in the coming months, as well as involve their fans in the upcoming actions.
The first two tracks are the "Skeletons", featuring brand new versions of some of GAMMA RAY's songs rarely (if ever) played live, including "Hold Your Ground" (from their "Heading For Tomorrow" album) and "Brothers" (from the "Insanity And Genius" album). The second section, "Majesties", is where the band display two more new versions of rarities, "Send Me A Sign" (originally on the "Powerplant" release) and "Rebellion In Dreamland" (originally on "Land Of The Free"), both performed in a new acoustic presentation.
Additionally, GAMMA RAY have also included some bonus tracks, including the ultra rare track "Wannabees" — previously only released on the "To The Metal!" seven-inch single, and available here on CD for the first time — as well as an extended version of "Brothers".
And to top it off, the final track on the EP is another version of "Rebellion In Dreamland", this time karaoke style! The band has launched a special contest where it will be integrating a "choir" of its fans' voices on the upcoming album version of the song! Diehards and wailers can take part in the competition by submitting a recording of their version of the song via physical demo submission or digital sound file. More information is available at this location.
"Skeletons & Majesties" track listing:
Skeletons
01. Hold Your Ground
02. Brothers
Majesties
03. Send Me A Sign
04. Rebellion In Dreamland
Bonus Tracks:
05. Wannabees
06. Brothers (extended version)
07. Rebellion In Dreamland (karaoke version)
Greek melodic metallers FIREWIND — who feature in their ranks OZZY OSBOURNE guitarist Gus G. (real name: Kostas Karamitroudis) — will embark on a European headlining tour in September. Support on the trek will come from Swedish metallers WOLF.
The dates are as follows:
Sep. 09 - Southampton, UK - Talking Head
Sep. 10 - Manchester, UK - Moho
Sep. 11 - Glasgow, Scotland - Apollo 23
Sep. 12 - Reading, UK - Sub 89
Sep. 14 - Zoetermeer, NL - Boerderij
Sep. 15 - Den Bosch, NL - W2
Sep. 16 - Kerkrade, NL - Rock Temple
Sep. 17 - Vosselaar, BEL - Biebob
Sep. 18 - Cologne, GER - Underground
Sep. 19 - Aschaffenburg, GER - Colos Saal
Sep. 20 - Hamburg, GER - Knust
Sep. 22 - Vienna, AUT - Szene
Sep. 23 - Brunico, IT - UFO
Sep. 24 - Pisa, IT - Borderline
Sep. 26 - Paris, FRA - Le Nouveau Casino
Tickets go on sale on March 29.
Commented Gus: "While we've done one-off shows, mini-tours and played open-air summer festivals in Europe, we haven't been on a proper tour across Europe in three years. FIREWIND has returned and we're looking forward to this one more than anything! We can't wait to play a full set again for our crazy fans all over the continent and play songs from [the latest FIREWIND album] 'Days Of Defiance' as well as older fan favorites! Get ready for an ass-kicking night full of fire and fury!"
He continued, "We're also pleased to have our buddies from WOLF on board for this tour. We've known them for years and we did a one-off show together in the U.K. back in 2007. They're a killer band and great bunch of guys who, just like us, live for metal!"
WOLF added in a statement: "We are very happy to announce that we're touring Europe together with our friends in FIREWIND. Not only do we get to play countries we haven't done for ages, but we can also rock out every night before and after the gig! With [the new WOLF album] 'Legions Of Bastards' as part of our set list, this will be a WOLF tour to remember, cubs!"
THE 2011 Metalliance Tour will have to move its Chicago show this Sunday, March 27 due to recent gang-related activity in the vicinity of the venue. The city has imposed a seven-day hold on the venue's operations license forcing the show to a new venue called bada brew (802 Theodore Street). The show will go on as scheduled. All tickets will be honored.
THE 2011 Metalliance Tour has enjoyed early success with two sold out shows on its inaugural run thus far. It is headlined by HELMET, ST VITUS and CROWBAR, with support from metal heavyweights KYLESA, RED FANG, HOWL and ATLAS MOTH on all dates.
Legendary alternative metal band HELMET is performing its 1992 platinum-selling release of "Meantime" in its entirety. The Interscope Records release gave the band mainstream attention with songs like "Unsung" and "In The Meantime".
One of the most highly influential doom metal bands in America, SAINT VITUS are regarded as one of the first bands of the genre starting out as early as the 1970s. The band featuring Scott "Wino" Weinrich, bassist Mark Adams, guitarist Dave Chandler and new drummer Henry Vasquez have influenced so many bands in doom and metal .
For more information, visit www.metalliancetour.com.
"As A Dog Returns", the fourth full-length album from Knoxville, Tennessee doom metallers PLACE OF SKULLS, will be released in Europe on April 4 via Volcom Entertainment. The follow-up to 2006's "The Black Is Never Far" was recorded at Lakeside Studios in Knoxville by Travis Wyrick and founding guitarist/vocalist Victor Griffin (PENTAGRAM, DEATH ROW, CATHEDRAL, JOE HASSELVANDER), with drums recorded and engineered by Mike Dearing.
Said Griffin of the cooperation with Volcom: "We're extremely happy with this arrangement. I've had my eye on Volcom for some time now. They're a wide-reaching company and have their hand in other markets besides music... a clothing line, skateboard/surfing apparel, and more. It's cool that a company like this loves heavy music and only puts out the stuff they really dig. It's just a whole different angle than the way labels typically work."
Griffin previously stated about the band's latest output: "The new album, 'As A Dog Returns', picks up dynamically where 'The Black Is Never Far' left off. Where 'The Black...' album had a bit more of a depressive theme lyrically, the new album tends to look to a brighter outcome. Musically we've gone further than ever before with dynamics and production. Though all the PLACE OF SKULLS' brand of heaviness you would expect is certainly there, there's a nice ebb and flow with quieter parts which tend to set a very dramatic and melancholy mood at times to the overall album.
"With every album we've done," he continued, "our growth and progression has been evident, and this new release is no different. I'm really enjoying the growth of my songwriting as time goes by. I don't feel as if I have anything to prove so I think the writing gets more open, honest, and genuine with every release."
"As A Dog Returns" track listing
01. Timeless Hearts
02. Breath Of Life
03. Though He Slay Me
04. Psalm
05. Dayspring
06. The Maker
07. He's God
08. Desperation
09. As A Dog Returns
Coinciding with the European release of "As A Dog Returns", PLACE OF SKULLS will embark on a European tour with THE GATES OF SLUMBER in late March/early April.
Formed in early 2000 by guitarist/singer/songwriter Victor Griffin, bassist Lee Abney and drummer Tim Tomaselli, PLACE OF SKULLS — a biblical reference to Golgotha — carries the torch of prior Griffin and Abney bands such as DEATH ROW and PENTAGRAM in the ever-burgeoning underground scene of doom metal. But as their sound continues to expand beyond those boundaries, they incorporate intricate dynamics in their songs that few bands of the same genre explore and lyrically reflect upon their spiritual beliefs, faith, God, politics, and the search for peace. Having stepped outside the proverbial box of "doom metal," PLACE OF SKULLS opens the door of accessibility to a whole other cross section of heavy rock enthusiast. But by no means should this be taken lightly. Their sound is as crushing and molten live as ever and no less threatening than any of their musical counterparts in volume.
Greg Prato of UGO recently conducted an interview with Nick Oliveri (KYUSS, QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, MONDO GENERATOR) about Nick's involvement with KYUSS LIVES!, the project featuring three-quarters of KYUSS (the influential American stoner rock/metal band, originally from Palm Desert, California). A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.
UGO: Was Josh Homme asked if he wanted to participate [KYUSS LIVES!]?
Nick Oliveri: I don't know if he was asked. I don't think he was. John [Garcia, vocals] didn't think that he wanted to with the three bands that he's already in. I recorded the new MONDO GENERATOR at Josh's studio, and I asked Josh, "Is it cool if I go and do this thing? What do you think?" And he said, "Go do it man. Have some fun!" Josh has in his studio a framed poster of GARCIA PLAYS KYUSS in there, so he's proud of the KYUSS thing as far as I know. He's cool with it, and doing [THEM CROOKED] VULTURES, EAGLES [OF DEATH METAL], and QUEENS [OF THE STONE AGE], I'm sure he's staying busy.
UGO: Are you and Josh on good terms again?
Nick Oliveri: Yeah, absolutely. Whenever I'm in L.A. and they're [QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE] in L.A. — I'm going to go see them play, I believe they're going to be playing April 12th, and I'll just be getting back from this. They're playing L.A. playing their first record in its entirety, so I'm going to go check that out, because that was a cool record. Just go and hang out with him. I recorded in his new studio and it's a nice place. It was great. He came down every day and said "Hey." It's been seven years, it's been some time. It's crazy to think that it's been that long. It's good to be able to see him and hang out with him. It's great.
UGO: Is there any talk of you and Josh working together again?
Nick Oliveri: There hasn't been any talk about it. As a matter of fact, the last time I saw them play was a benefit for Brian [O'Connor] in L.A., from the EAGLES [OF DEATH METAL]. I was down there and I mentioned to them, "Why don't I come up and do 'Millionaire' or something, and sing it and not play bass?" He was like, "Nah, I don't think that's a good idea yet." It's kind of in his court for stuff like that. I don't think he wants to give anybody the wrong idea. I don't necessarily know if that would happen. And he's got a good band — he's taking the band in the direction he wants it to go. Hey, it's all good.
UGO: That's too bad, because there was certainly a special chemistry between you and Josh.
Nick Oliveri: Yeah, I definitely know there's a chemistry there. I know my songs that I write are definitely better with his hand on them, and his parts put into them, and his production on them, too. But you know, I don't know if he necessarily feels that way about my input on his! [Laughs] He's taken the band in a direction he wants it to go, and that's cool. I kind of feel that QUEENS is a totally different band now than what it was. But who knows?!
Drummer Steve Grice of U.K. thrashers ONSLAUGHT has released the following statement to BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
"With great reluctance and sadness, I must announce that I am no longer prepared to fulfill the role of drummer for ONSLAUGHT, the band that I helped found in 1983, and which I brought back together in 2005. This has been a very difficult and painful decision to make, and follows a series of events that, in my opinion, have seen the recurrence of old patterns of behavior that fuelled the band's original demise in 1991.
"This culmination of occurrences came to a head when I learned through a third party that the band had booked a series of shows without my knowledge, and with the intention of using another drummer, during a period of time reserved for family commitments. Be very clear — the temporary use of another drummer does not present me with a problem. My issue is with the fact that at no point did anyone from the band let me know that these decisions had been made.
"Again in my opinion, there is a considerable gap between certain parties' view of ONSLAUGHT and the truth in terms of album sales and concert attendances. My reality, that of a father of two approaching 50, was simply incompatible with this alternate world view.
"My heartfelt thanks go out to all those I have met in my professional and personal lives over the last six years. Your love and kindness has been appreciated more than you could ever know. I have no immediate plans to remain in the music industry — my focus now returns to my marketing business and my family, who have been a constant source of support through the good times and the bad."
ONSLAUGHT's "The Sound Of Violence" video can be viewed below. The band's first official clip in twenty years (the last being from the group's 1990 full-length, "In Search Of Sanity") was filmed and edited by Lukas Hambach of Bloodwork Entertainment (DESTRUCTION, GAMMA RAY) and produced by Tommy Morriello and Thosten Lütje.
"The Sound Of Violence" comes off ONSLAUGHT's fifth album, "Sounds Of Violence", which was released in January via AFM Records. The follow-up to 2007's "Killing Peace" was recorded and mixed at Hansen Studio in Ribe, Denmark with acclaimed Danish producer Jacob Hansen (RAUNCHY, MERCENARY, VOLBEAT, HEAVEN SHALL BURN).
U.K. thrashers ONSLAUGHT have recruited Michael Hourihan (EXTREME NOISE TERROR, DESECRATION) to play the drums during their "Scream For Violence" tour starting on March 31 in Hamburg, Germany. According to a press release, the band is well rehearsed and prepared to perform a killer set, including songs that they have never played before such as "Shock And Awe" and "Rest In Pieces", among others.
Former ONSLAUGHT drummer Steve Grice released a statement to BLABBERMOUTH.NET in which he blamed his decision to quit the group on "a series of events that, in [his] opinion, have seen the recurrence of old patterns of behavior that fuelled the band's original demise in 1991." He added, "This culmination of occurrences came to a head when I learned through a third party that the band had booked a series of shows without my knowledge, and with the intention of using another drummer, during a period of time reserved for family commitments. Be very clear — the temporary use of another drummer does not present me with a problem. My issue is with the fact that at no point did anyone from the band let me know that these decisions had been made." He continued, "Again in my opinion, there is a considerable gap between certain parties' view of ONSLAUGHT and the truth in terms of album sales and concert attendances. My reality, that of a father of two
approaching 50, was simply incompatible with this alternate world view."
ONSLAUGHT's "The Sound Of Violence" video can be viewed below. The band's first official clip in twenty years (the last being from the group's 1990 full-length, "In Search Of Sanity") was filmed and edited by Lukas Hambach of Bloodwork Entertainment (DESTRUCTION, GAMMA RAY) and produced by Tommy Morriello and Thosten Lütje.
"The Sound Of Violence" comes off ONSLAUGHT's fifth album, "Sounds Of Violence", which was released in January via AFM Records. The follow-up to 2007's "Killing Peace" was recorded and mixed at Hansen Studio in Ribe, Denmark with acclaimed Danish producer Jacob Hansen (RAUNCHY, MERCENARY, VOLBEAT, HEAVEN SHALL BURN).
"Monsters And Heroes", a brand new song from the reunited KING KOBRA, is available for download at this location. Proceeds from the track will be donated to Ronnie James Dio's Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund.
"It's an awesome song," drummer Carmine Appice tells Classic Rock. "The song was originally about growing up and having monsters in your closet, but Paul [Shortino, the band's new singer' did a tremendous job of patching in a few of Ronnie's classic lyrics about wizards, dragons, sacred hearts and rainbows in the dark.
"We went ahead and did this because I was very close to Ronnie until he died and so, of course, was Paul. It felt like a really good thing to do; when we recorded it I could feel my hair stand up on end. Everyone that hears the song loves it."
Frontiers Records has set an April 15 European release date (May 5 in North America) for the new self-titled comeback album from KING KOBRA.
Along with Carmine, the band featured four relatively unknown musicians at the time — David Michael-Philips and Mick Sweda on guitar, Johnny Rod on bass and Mark Free on lead vocals. KING KOBRA toured the U.S., Canada, Europe and Mexico playing shows with KISS, IRON MAIDEN, QUIET RIOT, TED NUGENT, QUEENSRŸCHE and AUTOGRAPH.
The year 2010 saw the band reunite the original classic '85 lineup, replacing original singer Mark Free (now Marcie Free) with veteran lead vocalist Paul Shortino (ROUGH CUTT, QUIET RIOT).
"King Kobra" track listing:
01. Rock This House
02. Turn Up The Good (Times)
03. Live Forever
04. Tear Down The Walls
05. This Is How We Roll
06. Midnight Woman
07. We Got A Fever
08. Tope Of The World
09. You Make It Easy
10. Cryin' Turns To Rain
11. Screamin' For More
12. Fade Away
KING KOBRA 2011 is:
* Paul Shortino - vocals
* David Michael-Philips - Guitar
* Mick Sweda - Guitar
* Johnny Rod - Bass
* Carmine Appice – Drums
North America's progressive metal masterminds SYMPHONY X have revealed the details of their ninth studio album, "Iconoclast", due in Europe on June 17 and in North America on June 21 via Nuclear Blast Records.
Illustrator and film concept artist Warren Flanagan ("Watchmen", "The Incredible Hulk", "2012") is the talent behind the album artwork. He states, "The idea was to create imagery that was a little darker in tone to previous SYMPHONY X albums and to represent the overall theme of 'Iconoclast' into the artwork. The whole concept came from [SYMPHONY X guitarist] Mike [Romeo], who had a strong idea of what the cover should represent based off the music. I just ran with it. When the album's title was decided on, I focused the image based on the meaning of it. I also wanted to use the band's signature 'masks' but present them in a way that connected to the new album."
SYMPHONY X founder and lead guitarist Michael Romeo has the following to say about Flanagan's art: "We worked with Warren on the last CD, 'Paradise Lost', and have a good relationship with him. When I talk to Warren about artwork ideas, a lot of times we end up making comparisons to films and movies. With the new CD, 'Iconoclast', the music and lyrics have a darker mechanical/technological theme, and I remember us talking about scenes from films like 'The Matrix' and 'Terminator'. From there, we sent him some songtitles and lyrics (songs like 'Dehumanized', 'Bastards Of The Machine', 'Electric Messiah') and just let Warren run with the ball. He has a great imagination and style, and he totally gets what we are trying to convey with the music."
The track listing for the jewel-cased version of "Iconoclast" is:
01. Iconoclast
02. The End Of Innocence
03. Dehumanized
04. Bastards Of The Machine
05. Heretic
06. Children Of A Faceless God
07. Electric Messiah
08. Prometheus (I Am Alive)
09. When All Is Lost
The track listing for the 2-CD special edition digipak version of "Iconoclast" is:
CD 1:
01. Iconoclast
02. The End Of Innocence
03. Dehumanized
04. Bastards Of The Machine
05. Heretic
06. Children Of A Faceless God
07. When All Is Lost
CD 2:
01. Electric Messiah
02. Prometheus (I Am Alive)
03. Light Up The Night
04. The Lords Of Chaos
05. Reign In Madness
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/soulflypremiere/symphicon1.jpg
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/soulflypremiere/symphicon2.jpg
Guitarist Jeff Loomis of Seattle metallers NEVERMORE will embark on a Schecter Guitars-sponsored clinic tour of Serbia, Greece, and Italy this month. Jeff will perform classic NEVERMORE songs as well as music from his solo album, "Zero Order Phase", which came out in 2008 via Century Media Records. Jeff will also make an appearance at the at the Musikmesse Frankfurt 2011 fair on Friday, April 8 and Saturday, April 9 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. He will take part in signing sessions at 13:00 CET and 16:00 CET at the Schecter booth.
The details:
Serbia:
March 24 – 18:00 Dom Omladine, Hall Americana, Belgrade
Greece:
March 26 - 21:00 Eightball Club, Thessaloniki
March 27 - 21:00 An Club, Athens
Italy:
March 29 - 15:30 Signing Session - Pavia - Guitars and Basses
March 29 - 19:00 Clinic - Vercelli - Dosio Musica
March 30 - 15:30 Signing Session - Vicenza - D-Music Store
March 30 - 21:00 Clinic - Verona - Guitar Shop c/o Il Blocco Music Hall
March 31 - 15:30 Clinic - Firenze - Plug 'n Play c/o Black Dog
March 31 - 21:30 Signing Session - Sarzana (SP) - Music Store c/o Jux Tap
April 01 - 15:30 Signing Session - Como - Little Wonder
April 01 - 21:00 Clinic - Milano - Lucky Music Network
April 02 - 11:00 Signing Session - Torino - Casa Musicale Scavino
Germany:
April 08 - 13:00 and 16:00 Signing Session - Frankfurt, Musikmesse
April 09 - 13:00 and 16:00 Signing Session - Frankfurt, Musikmesse
"It's Over Now", a new demo song from DEAD OF NIGHT, the band featuring SHADOWS FALL guitarists Matt Bachand and Jon Donais along with former members of UNEARTH and SEEMLESS, can be streamed in the YouTube clip below.
Combining modern hard rock and metal with powerful vocals, huge driving guitars, and a massive rhythm section, DEAD OF NIGHT is poised to destroy the current stale world of rock. With a strong focus on the melodic elements of the Eighties, the dark harmonies of the Nineties and a new modern twist, Bachand, Donais, Derek Kerswill (UNEARTH, SEEMLESS, KINGDOM OF SORROW), Jeff Fultz (SEEMLESS) and Jason Witte (GOADED) have teamed up to deliver a familiar, but original sound.
After completing a five-song demo in late 2010, DEAD OF NIGHT set out to find a singer who could take the songs to the next level. In stepped Arizona native Jason Witte, whose previous band GOADED featured former members of DIO, Tracy G. and Larry "Bones" Dennison, and current KORN drummer, Ray Luzier. After a few weeks and a flight out to Massachusetts, it was clear that he was up to the task. The new tracks were recorded mostly in each member's home-studio and then sent to Chris "Zeuss" Harris (HATEBREED, SHADOWS FALL) for mixing.
"There are too many bands out there with one radio-friendly song and nine throwaways just to fill up an album," says Jason. "We want our audience to be blown away with each and every song."
DEAD OF NIGHT is:
Jason Witte (ex-GOADED) - Vocals
Matt Bachand (SHADOWS FALL) - Guitar
Jon Donais (SHADOWS FALL) - Guitar
Jeff Fultz (ex-SEEMLESS) - Bass
Derek Kerswill (ex-UNEARTH, SEEMLESS) - Drums
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/officialdeadofnightband.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cR1ieBkdd1A&feature=player_embedded
U.S. melodic metallers ARTIZAN have announced the addition of lead guitarist Steffen Robitzsch (far right in photo below) to the group's ranks. Steffen lives and teaches guitar in Jacksonville, Florida and has extensive training in classical and jazz theory. Steffen has studied with Tony Smotherman and Terry Syrek at the National Guitar Workshop. Some of his influences include Marty Friedman, Jason Becker, Paul Gilbert, Jeff Loomis and Alex Skolnick.
ARTIZAN will release its full-length debut, "Curse Of The Artizan", on April 29 via the German label Pure Steel Records. The CD was recorded with legendary producer Jim Morris, who has previously worked with ICED EARTH, DEATH, CANNIBAL CORPSE and JAG PANZER, among many others.
"Curse Of The Artizan" revised track listing:
01. Trade The World
02. Rise
03. The Man In Black
04. Fire
05. Fading Story
06. Game Within A Game
07. Torment
08. Curse Of The Artizan
Fantasy artist Marc Sasso (DIO, HALFORD) has created characters based on the conceptual idea of the album's title track, "Curse Of The Artizan". The album contains an intro track to "Curse Of The Artizan" titled "Torment", which illustrates the Artizan as a child being bullied and ostracized. As the Artizan matures, he discovers he was born with a gift to sculpt and paint characters which come to life and seek retribution on those that were cruel to him. In the CD artwork we see a beast that he has sculpted from granite that is coming to life and breaking free. The beast will soon be delivering vengeance to those who scarred the Artizan.
ARTIZAN drummer Ty Tammeus will be at this year's Keep it True festival to promote the CD release. The annual event will be held April 29-30 at Tauberfrankenhalle in Lauda-Königshofen, Germany.
Audio samples are available for streaming on the band's Facebook page.
ARTIZAN, hailing from Jacksonville, Florida, was formed by original members of the acclaimed Century Media recording artist LEVIATHAN, and released its self-titled debut EP in late 2009. With a strong resemblance to such great bands as IRON MAIDEN, QUEENSRŸCHE, FATES WARNING and CRIMSON GLORY, ARTIZAN is undoubtedly one of the best exponents of what classic heavy metal is all about.
ARTIZAN is:
Ty Tammeus - Drums
Tom Braden - Vocals
Shamus McConney - Guitar
Steffen Robitzsch - Lead Guitar
Jon Jennings - Bass
For more information, visit www.artizanmetal.com.
Cleveland, Ohio thrash metal veterans DESTRUCTOR and Auburn Records are offering one lucky fan the opportunity of a lifetime and the ultimate fan experience.
One winner will be chosen to play bass live on stage with DESTRUCTOR for the band's entire set on May 6 at Peabody's Concert Club in Cleveland, Ohio supporting Germany's thrash metal legends DESTRUCTION. HEATHEN and WARBEAST are also on the bill. The performance will be filmed and recorded.
DESTRUCTOR bass player Jamie Boulder has a previous out-of-town commitment with his band MIDNIGHT on the same night and will not be able to perform.
To enter, send a video or YouTube link of yourself playing bass to destructorbass@aol.com. Include your name, address, phone number and reason why you want to play bass with DESTRUCTOR. All entries must be received no later than April 15, 2011.
"This band and my label have always been about the fans first and foremost," says Auburn Records president and band manager Bill Peters. "We've taken a negative situation and made it into a positive. We did not want to cancel this show due to the scheduling conflict so we thought we'd take a chance and try something a little out of the ordinary. Rather than simply find a fill-in bassist, we decided to make this a very special and memorable night for one of our fans.
"Some bands have offered fans the opportunity to play one song live on stage with them. We've taken it to a whole new level by giving someone the chance to play an actual entire set with the band!
"We're not looking for the most technical or experienced bass player necessarily. More importantly, we want to give this opportunity to someone who has a love and passion for DESTRUCTOR and is a genuine fan. The chance to perform live with DESTRUCTOR in front of a packed Cleveland crowd, plus share the stage with one of the best European thrash metal bands of all time, is a dream come true for any true underground metal fan and musician."
Ironically, the two bands with similar names, musical sound and stage attire that came into existence at roughly the exact same time thousands of miles apart have never shared the same stage together.
"I remember when I first saw DESTRUCTION's 'Sentence Of Death' EP back in 1984," says DESTRUCTOR vocalist/guitarist Dave Overkill. "I looked at the picture and name and thought, 'Holy shit, these guys have almost the same name and look as us!'
"It seems kind of strange that after 27 years of being DESTRUCTOR that we have never had the opportunity to play with the band that many have compared us to or thought the names were all too similar. Finally DESTRUCTOR meets DESTRUCTION.
"Honestly both bands started around the same time, in the early 1980s, and had the same denim, chains, leather, and bullet belt image and we most likely had the same influences. Not really uncommon if you think about it. Much like all polka music looks and sounds the same if you're not into the scene but in hindsight we really are very different bands in the thrash metal world. This show, for us, will be a great thrill to be playing with our brothers from around the world. Like looking into the mirror? Not really!"
"It's cool that we have similar names," adds DESTRUCTOR drummer Matt Flammable."Must be great minds think alike right?"
BRUTAL GODZ, the new Germany-based project featuring former/current members of BLIND GUARDIAN, RHAPSODY OF FIRE, PARADOX and REBELLION, will enter the studio in April to begin recording its debut album, "Echoes Of The Dead", for a fall release.
The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Armageddon
02. Cult Of Fear
03. Dead Reckoning
04. I Pray You Die
05. In The Forecourt Of Hell
06. Land Of Black And Red
07. Tao Of The Void
08. The Blood Icon
09. There Is None So Deaf As Those Who Won't Hear
10. Walk Thru The Dark Vale Of Death
BRUTAL GODZ recently parted ways with Russian singer Ian Breeg and replaced him with Charly Stenhauer of veteran German metallers PARADOX.
BRUTAL GODZ' new lineup is:
Charly Steinhauer - Vocals
Uwe Lulis - Guitar
Oliver Holzwarth - Bass
Alex Holzwarth - Drums
Commented Stenhauer: "The request from the guys [to join BRUTAL GODZ] came out of the blue. Oliver and I met at a BLIND GUARDIAN show in Germany last year where we re-established our friendship in a conversation prior to the concert. Back in 2000 we already shared great moments during the production of the PARADOX 'Collision Course' album
"I have known the guys for so many years now and we have stayed in touch the whole time. It is proof of a strong spiritual and musical bond between us. I know what to expect musically and personally. it feels like home, which is great.
"It was kind of a surprise when Oliver asked me to at least try to face the challenge. I agreed instantly to at least try to do it my way and sing on all the songs.
"When I heard the BRUTAL GODZ songs for the first time I was blown away. The classic-yet-innovative approach to heavy metal music is outstanding. What is very important for me is that the guys do not wanna introduce just another project, they want me to be in a real band that will be touring the world.
"I did the demo my way, I therefore changed all vocal lines from what the guys previously had, Oliver had to rewrite most of the lyrics. and we had a great time in getting together to become a strong unit.
"I can't wait to perform in studio very soon.
"Even though the guys are so damn brutal, there is a strong sense of humor in all our conversations which I do totally appreciate.
"To all the metalheads out there — expect nothing less than an iconic metal debut album from the GODZ."
BRUTAL GODZ last May parted ways with former METAL CHURCH singer Ronny Munroe.
The much-anticipated collaboration project between OPETH's Mikael Åkerfeldt and PORCUPINE TREE's Steven Wilson, tentatively dubbed "Storm Corrosion", has completed writing material for its debut album. Wilson says, "There's still a lot of recording work to do, but this should definitely be out in early 2012."
In fall 2010 interview with the U.K. branch of Roadrunner Records, Wilson stated about "Storm Corrosion", "It's nice to know that what [Mikael and I] always suspected was that when we actually got together [and began collaborating on songs], it was gonna be quite easy. It was also in the back of your mind, thinking, 'Maybe it won't work.' Maybe it [was] just built up so much [in my head before we started writing material], and it was so easy. So easy. And the music was so crazy and so inspiring to both of us. So I think that was good to feel, like, 'It's gonna work.'"
Regarding the similarities and differences between PORCUPINE TREE and OPETH and how they play into "Storm Corrosion", Wilson said, "The funny thing is that the music we're making together is actually nothing like either of us made before. Because I think we both had this idea of this kind of music that we knew we couldn't get our bands to play, but that we both kind of understood where we were coming from. 'Cause we have this kind of passion [for] very experimental, obscure records, almost orchestral in their scope. And we wanted to make a record like that for a long time."
He continued, "It's a long way from metal and it's a long way from anything that, I think, Mikael has ever done, including the 'Damnation' record [from OPETH].
"I think a lot of people thought, 'Oh, it's gonna be like 'Damnation'.' It's not; it's a long way from that, too. And it's actually a long way from anything I've done; [it's] possibly closer to aspects of things I've done, but really quite distinct from anything I've ever [released]. [It's] very orchestral, lots of strings, lots of guitars and vocals, too. Lots of very long songs that kind of go in different directions that you don't necessarily expect them to go in — almost theatrical in a way. And we both kind of admitted to ourselves that there are a lot of fans out there that are probably gonna hate it. But we're doing it for us."
He added, "The one thing we didn't wanna do is get together and do a prog-metal supergroup, which would have been so easy to do — and kind of expected, in a way. And, you know, we might do that anyway one day. But this time around, we thought, 'Let's just do this [kind of] record.'
"Some people will love it and some people will not, and that's OK, because, in a way, I don't think we wanted to just give what was expected, and we're certainly not doing that."
On the topic of the recording process for "Storm Corrosion" and whether Steven and Mikael are self-producing the new project, Wilson said, "It's great, because in many respects, Mikael is the closest I know to someone who is... How do I put this? He's the equivalent of me in his band. He's like the captain of the ship and we kind of understand each other — all the frustrations of being in that position, all the stresses and pressures of being in that situation — so because of that, there's no ego thing at all — yet! [Laughs] But we're both kind of control freaks, in a way, so that's kind of a strange situation to be, where you're working with someone where you don't feel any of those issues and you have that complete trust. So we're just like... [I go], 'Here, you have the guitar. Do something amazing.' And he does. And then I'm like, 'Oh, I've got an idea for that,' and I do some keyboard thing. And he's like, 'That's amazing! I love that.' And so
it's really... It sounds like we're kind of blowing each other the whole time... [Laughs] But it's just so much fun. And that's the important thing — I think it's fun. Because there's no ego and there's no pressure. Because people don't know what to expect."
He continued, "We've kind of already resigned ourselves to the fact that we're gonna do something that people are gonna hate, anyway. I mean, I'm exaggerating... I'm sure a lot of people are gonna dig it. But people are gonna be surprised by it.
"We're not giving people what they expect, so there's little pressure, really — there's very little pressure. It's just literally swapping instruments and I'm kind of recording it on my own system."
Although former DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Portnoy was initially supposed to be part of the project, it now appears that he will no longer be involved.
"To be honest, there's just no room for drums on what we've done so far," Åkerfeldt told Classic Rock magazine last year. "I called Mike up, and he was cool about it. He's got so much going on anyway, and I'm sure we will work together in the future."
According to TMZ.com, a battery report was filed against MÖTLEY CRÜE singer Vince Neil last night in Las Vegas after an alleged altercation with his ex-girlfriend. Sources tell TMZ.com, the woman was at a Hal Sparks concert at the Las Vegas Hilton when Neil allegedly stormed in and started screaming obscenities at her and her two friends. She told police Neil got physical with her and one of her friends.
Police told the Las Vegas Sun said they are investigating the "disturbance" and will determine whether criminal charges will be filed against Neil, who wasn't arrested.
Police were called at 10:43 p.m. by hotel security. Neil had left the scene by the time officers arrived and police have launched an inquiry into the situation, police spokesman Bill Cassell said.
Neil's girlfriend Alicia Jacobs left him last week, less than a month after Neil was released from jail. Jacobs said in a statement, "Due to the decisions Vince continues to make, it is necessary that I end our relationship of seven months. I wish him happiness and good health."
Neil failed three field sobriety tests and had a blood-alcohol level almost three times the legal limit during his June 27, 2010 Las Vegas arrest.
Jacobs, a local TV reporter in Las Vegas, interviewed Neil when he left jail, with the singer saying that driving home drunk was "the wrong thing to do." "I made the mistake of getting behind the wheel after having some cocktails," he said. "It was so easy for me not to do it; I was at a hotel, I had access to limousines, I had access to rooms — I could have just stayed at the Hilton that night, but for some reason I decided to drive home, and that was the wrong thing to do. . . It's not gonna happen again."
Neil pled guilty in Las Vegas Justice Court in January and spent 10 days in jail, followed by another 15 days of house arrest. He also paid a $585 fine and attended DUI school and attended a victim impact panel online.
Neil was convicted of vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence in 1984 after he caused a car crash that killed his passenger, HANOI ROCKS drummer Nicholas "Razzle" Dingley, and seriously injured two people in a second vehicle. He served 30 days in jail and was on probation for five years.
MÖTLEY CRÜE singer Vince Neil's former girlfriend Alicia Jacobs who works as a TV reporter in Las Vegas, claims that she has a bruise from Neil jabbing at her with his finger during a confrontation last night (Thursday, March 24) at comedian Hal Sparks' show at the Las Vegas Hilton.
Vince reportedly shouted obscenities at Jacobs, Wayne Newton's publicist Tricia McCrone and Las Vegas Sun writer John Katsilometes, who were sitting at a table.
Katsilometes wrote about the incident on the Las Vegas Sun web site, stating, "Neil shouted [Jacobs] down, saying he was upset with her and everyone at the table for the unflattering media coverage he'd received as his conduct was being witnessed by concerned hotel guests at places like, well, the Hilton."
Sparks mentioned the exchange on his Twitter profile, writing, "Sooooo... Vince Neil storms into my show.. Yells FU at 2 women.. Gets pushy... Cops get called... Good times."
Jacobs issued a statement Friday, saying, "it was a very shocking incident. I wish I knew what prompted his anger, but I have no idea. Vince's decisions continue to concern me. I really hope he can move forward and find peace in his life."
Police told the Las Vegas Sun said they are investigating the "disturbance" and will determine whether criminal charges will be filed against Neil, who wasn't arrested.
Police were called at 10:43 p.m. by hotel security. Neil had left the scene by the time officers arrived and police have launched an inquiry into the situation, police spokesman Bill Cassell said.
Jacobs left Neil on March 15, less than a month after the singer was released from jail.
Jacobs conducted an interview with Neil late last month about what it was like for him to spend 10 days in jail for a DUI charge stemming from his arrest in June 2010 after a party at the Las Vegas Hilton.
Neil failed three field sobriety tests and had a blood-alcohol level almost three times the legal limit during his June 27, 2010 Las Vegas arrest.
The rocker pled guilty in Las Vegas Justice Court in January and spent 10 days in jail, followed by another 15 days of house arrest. He also paid a $585 fine and attended DUI school and attended a victim impact panel online.
According to TMZ.com, POISON singer has filed a lawsuit over the incident at the June 2009 Tony Awards when he got clocked in the head by a descending set piece during his band's performance. Michaels' suit against Tony Award Productions, CBS and others blames producers for not instructing him on how to safely exit the stage after his performance was over, because while he tried to exit, he was "smacked" in the face by a piece of the set. Bret also says that he nearly died in April 2010 from a subarachnoid brain hemorrhage, which he believes was caused by the injuries he suffered at the Tony Awards. In his suit, Michaels claims, "One of the most common causes of this type of hemorrhage is head trauma — exactly like the one Michaels suffered at the hands of the Tony Awards." Michaels notes, "Through his sheer will to live, to see his children grow up, [he] was able to survive this trauma."
Shortly after the Tony Awards incident, Tonys spokeswoman Christina Stejskal said the rocker "missed his mark," which resulted in him failing to get back to the stage in time (as did the rest of POISON) and trying to jump up, only to have a descending set piece smack him on the head and knock him to the ground.
Back in June 2009, Michaels told People.com that he had no plans to file a lawsuit over the Tony Awards incident, insisting, "I want to make very clear to everybody that — first and foremost — I was honored to be asked to be at the Tonys. I'd never done it before and in all my life it's not something I thought I'd be on. I was really excited. There's no lawsuit. I'm not doing any of that. I'm taking the high road."
Michaels' neurologist Dr. Joseph Zabramski held a press conference for reporters in May 2010 and responded to speculation that the POISON frontman's April 2010 brain hemorrhage could be related to his onstage injury at the 2009 Tony Awards. "I do not believe that that [a connection between the brain hemorrhage and the Tony Awards injury] is a possibility at all," said Zabramski. The doctor added that far too much time had passed for the incidents to be related. "A hit in the head can cause a subacute hemorrhage, but it causes it immediately," Zabramski explained. "If that had caused a problem that led to this hemorrhage, we would have seen a problem with his blood vessels."
Doom lords THE GATES OF SLUMBER will unleash their hotly-anticipated fifth full-length album, "The Wretch", on May 10 via Rise Above Records/Metal Blade. Featuring eight slabs of punishing metal, the CD boils doom down to its purest form, resulting in the Indianapolis trio's finest work to date.
Recorded during the cold British winter of 2010 at London's Orgone Studios and produced by Jaime Gomez Arellano (GHOST, ANGEL WITCH), "The Wretch" sees THE GATES OF SLUMBER pushing its trademark blend of skull-crushing riffs and pounding rhythms to new heights and marks a return to the slower all-out doom tempos of the group's early albums combined with "true doom metal" lyrical themes. From the funereal crawl of opener "Bastards Born" and the all-powerful title track, to the pounding stomp of "The Scovrge ov Drvnkenness", the barbaric "To the Rack with Them" and the epic "Castle Of The Devil", "The Wretch" is a future classic featuring outstanding performances and some of the heaviest metal you will hear in 2011. The album's deathly cover art is taken from a watercolor and gouache painting by Arik "Moonhawk" Roper (HIGH ON FIRE) titled "Emerald Eclipse".
"This record is frustration and disappointment put to music," said THE GATES OF SLUMBER frontman and founding member Karl Simon. "No heroics this time, no swords; no sorcery. No fantasy. That stuff is OK; it's fun...whatever, but we don't feel it these days. This one is all about others let you down almost as much as you let yourself down. It might not make sense to you, but then you probably only have the last two records as a digital download. That, or your world is summed up by someone else's soundbite."
"The Wretch" track listing:
01. Bastards Born
02. The Scovrge Ov Drvnkenness
03. To The Rack With Them
04. Day of Farewell
05. Castle of the Devil
06. Coven of Cain
07. The Wretch
08. Iron and Fire
Prior to the release of the new record, THE GATES OF SLUMBER will head to Europe for a two-week tour with U.S. doom veterans PLACE OF SKULLS. The band will wrap the trek on April 16 with a performance as one of the featured acts at the 2011 Roadburn Festival in Tilburg, Holland where it will share the stage with CANDLEMASS, SWANS and more. The band will then kick off a U.S. tour alongside ORANGE GOBLIN on May 28 in New York City.
Dutch female-fronted gothic rock outfit NEMESEA has inked a deal with Napalm Records. The band's third album will be released in the summer.
Commented the group: "Teaming up with Napalm Records is something we have been looking forward to for quite some time now.
"We've been working really hard on our new album and are very excited that Napalm has taken us under its wings. A great record company that believes in NEMESEA!
"There's a lot of emotion on this album, as well as power and anxiety.
"The upcoming album is filled with strong and powerful songs, as well as beautiful fragile ballads.
"We are confident that Napalm Records will bring the music where it belongs."
NEMESEA recently parted ways with drummer Steven Bouma and replaced him with Frank Van Der Star.
NEMESEA will perform at Atak in Enschede, Netherlands on June 5 with THE GATHERING.
A teaser clip for the forthcoming CD can be viewed below.
NEMESEA recorded its July 2 and July 3, 2009 concerts at P3 in Purmerend, Holland for a live album, "Pure: Live @ P3", which was released in September 2009. The shows were unique in the sense that the audience was able to hear the band perform live in Surround Sound 7.0 as part of an innovative project that was conducted in co-operation with students from the Utrecht School of the Arts (HKU).
NEMESEA's second album, "In Control", was produced by Tony Platt (AC/DC, BOB MARLEY) and Ronald Prent (RAMMSTEIN) and was released in June 2007.
NEMESEA recorded "In Control" after raising $50,000 through the SellaBand.com web site, which empowers artists to make a professional album funded by fans.
NEMESEA is:
Manda Ophuis - Vocals
Hendrik Jan de Jong - Guitar
Sonny Onderwater - Bass
Frank Van Der Star - Drums
Lasse Dellbrügge - Keyboards
For more information, visit www.nemesea.com.
Swedish metallers CLOUDSCAPE will enter RoastingHouse Studios in Malmö, Sweden on April 11 with producer/engineer Micko Twedberg to begin recording their fourth album, "New Era", for a late 2011 release.
Canadian cult metal band THE EXALTED PILEDRIVER (a.k.a. PILEDRIVER) will release a new live album, "Night Of The Unpolished Turd", on April 1 via Sick Fuck Records. The CD was recorded on October 30, 2010 at the Scout Hall in Cochrane, Ontario, Canada and it features the following track listing:
01. Alien Rape
02. Piledriver
03. Metal Inquisition
04. Unsuck My Cock
05. Metal Manifesto
06. I'm The One
07. Sex With Satan
08. Witch Hunt
09. Last Day Of The Weak
10. The Executioner
11. The Fire God
You can pre-order the album at this location.
Commented the band: "[This is] an 'actual' live album, on an average night in Nowheresville, Northern Ontario, Canada. Not just the jewels in the rough, cherry-picked from 23 shows in front of some other headliner's huge audience, but ONE live performance in front of a handful of true Old-school metalheads, as is reality outside of Europe!!! The Pile-barkin' and band-playin' (every race-it-like-you-stole-it mistake included) are simply 666% GIVE 'ER TO HELL!!!!!! And the sound is waay too loud and 'wrong' at ANY volume on ANY system!!!! A true speaker-shredder as only PILEDRIVER could produce!!! Yer gonna need some industrial swabs to get this aural excrement outta yer ears, trust me!!!!"
THE EXALTED PILEDRIVER's first album in 22 years, "Metal Manifesto", was released on November 18, 2008. The CD was mixed by veteran Neil Kernon (CANNIBAL CORPSE, NEVERMORE) and it follows up the classic cult discography of the band: "Metal Inquisition" (1985) and "Stay Ugly" (1986).
PILEDRIVER was founded in 1985 by Gord Kirchin. They were known for an over-the-top image and flamboyant song titles/lyrics ("Sex With Satan", "Alien Rape", "Sodomize the Dead", "Witch Hunt", "Human Sacrifice", etc). Probably their best known song was the title track of their debut album, "Metal Inquisition", which featured in the chorus the sound of a falling guillotine blade chopping someone's head off. The album was followed by "Stay Ugly" a year later.
Having sold over 35,000 copies of its debut, "Stairway To Fairyland", FREEDOM CALL's tour with SAXON, ANGRA and EDGUY turned into a triumphal march. The tour culminated with memorable shows with SAVATAGE and SKEW SISKIN in August 1999 as part of the Popkomm music fair in Cologne. The band played almost fifty shows in 2000 and proved their worth at various festivals, like the Wacken Open Air 1999 and 2000. Their second release, "Crystal Empire", even surpassed the debut's success. The sales figures increased, and even before the album was available, FREEDOM CALL were invited to the Metafest in Bologna, Italy, the Metal Dayz in Switzerland and delivered an unforgettable performance at the STRATOVARIUS/RHAPSODY show in Bourges, France.
Following the release of "Crystal Empire", FREEDOM CALL embarked on a 63-day European tour with HAMMERFALL and VIRGIN STEELE that took them through Scandinavia, Holland, Germany, Austria, Hungry, France and Spain, among other countries.
June 2002 saw the arrival of the third FREEDOM CALL recording, "Eternity", followed by an extensive tour with BLIND GUARDIAN. During that time period they recorded "Live Invasion". At the same time, FREEDOM CALL established themselves as a headlining act in their own right and they were celebrated as the stars of the Wacken Road Show 2004 night after night.
"The Circle Of Life" saw the integration of more modern and unusual arrangements into the band's sound, extending the musicians' sonic range - an element which their album, "Dimensions", also benefits from. With both albums they toured extensively with bands like RAGE and DRAGONFORCE.
In 2010 the new album "Legend of the Shadowking" saw the light of day. The album is based on the story of King Ludwig II and charted in Sweden and Finland. In February/March 2010 FREEDOM CALL embarked on a huge European tour together with GAMMA RAY and in May 2010 with AXEL RUDI PELL. Afterwards they played over 40 gigs on festivals and as a headliner. After nearly 15 years of existence and approximately 200,000 albums sold, it was time for the first DVD which was shot by the end of 2010 in Pratteln, Switzerland.
Both the CD and DVD packages include the entire live show from Pratteln, Switzerland. The second disc of the DVD set includes interviews, a "A Day In The Life Of Freedom Call" featurette and much more. The limited edition 2 CD/2 DVD deluxe package contains both CDs, both DVDs and a deluxe A1 Poster.
Due on June 14 via SPV/Steamhammer, "Live In Hellvetia will feature the following track listing:
Double DVD Digipak
DVD 1
01. We Are one
02. United Alliance
03. Thunder God
04. Tears Of Babylon
05. Blackenend Sun
06. Queen Of My world
07. Out Of The ruins
08. Hunting High And Low
09. Drum Solo
10. Metal Invasion
11. Merlin - Requiem
12. Merlin - Legend of the Past
13. The Quest
14. Warriors
15. A Perfect Day
16. Far Away
17. Mr. Evil
18. Land Of Light
19. Freedom Call
20. Hymn To The Brave
Live footage recorded on December 29, 2010 at the Z7 in Pratteln, Switzerland
Running time: approx 110 min
FREEDOM CALL's current lineup:
Chris Bay - Vocals & Guitar
Lars Rettkowitz - Guitar, Backing Vocals
Samy Saemann - Bass, Backing Vocals
Klaus Sperling - Drums, Backing Vocals
FREEDOM CALL will also be releasing its latest studio album, "Legend of the Shadowking", in a limited-edition double gatefold format. The album will be on blue colored vinyl and includes one bonus track.
SUBSIGNAL, the new German band featuring former SIEGES EVEN members Arno Menses (vocals) and Markus Steffen (guitar), has entered the studio to begin recording its second album, "Touchstones", for a September release via ZYX Music. According to the group, the 70-minute is being produced by guitarist Markus Steffen and vocalist Arno Menses and is being recorded in "different studios during the next months. Guitars and bass will be done in Munich, recorded by Kalle Wallner, known for his work with RPWL and BLIND EGO. Drums will be recorded in Seeheim/Jugenheim by good old Kristian Kohlmannslehner who also co-produced SUBSIGNAL's first album, 'Beautiful & Monstrous'. Vocals will be recorded somewhere in the north of Germany. Mixing and mastering by Kristian Kohlmannslehner at Kohlekeller Studios. Some add-ons, like an oboe or a string trio, have already been recorded, respectively will be recorded the next weeks. Along with the whole keyboard production of
the album, all these things will be recorded by David Bertok at his own Everlight Studio nearby Munich."
Check out a studio diary from drummer Roel van Helden at this location.
"Touchstones" will feature the following tracks:
* My Sanctuary
* Con Todas Las Palabras
* Touchstones
* Feeding Utopia
* The Essence Called Mind
* The Size Of Light On Earth
* Embers (Part I: Your Secret Is Safe With Me)
* Echoes In Eternity
* As Dreams Are Made On
* The Lifespan Of A Glimpse
* Finisterre
SUBSIGNAL, the new German band featuring former SIEGES EVEN members Arno Menses (vocals) and Markus Steffen (guitar), will support Canadian rockers SAGA on a number of shows in March/April.
SUBSIGNAL released its debut album, entitled "Beautiful & Monstrous", on September 25, 2009 via GoldenCore Records/ZYX Music. The CD was helmed by co-producer Kristian Kohlmannslehner, who worked on SIEGES EVEN's 2007 release, "Paramount".
SUBSIGNAL describes its music as "progressive, melancholic, cutting edge, emotional, blended with a good portion of melodic heaviness."
SUBSIGNAL is:
Markus Steffen (guitar)
Arno Menses (vocals)
Ralf Schwager (bass)
David Bertok (keyboards)
Roel van Helden (drums)
For more information, visit www.subsignalband.com.
Since the release of the band's debut album, "In Hatred's Flame", in July 2008, EXMORTUS has kept busy touring and gigging relentlessly with such acts as Heavy Artillery labelmates VEKTOR and L.A. black thrashers WITCHAVEN. After suffering a temporary setback with the departure of frontman Balmore during early 2010, EXMORTUS rebounded quickly with lead guitar shredder Conan taking over on vocals and the addition of new guitarist Sean Redline. The short break from their busy live schedule also provided the band with the time needed to complete the material for its upcoming sophomore album. Armed to the teeth with its most aggressive material to date, the death-thrash quartet entered Black Static Studio in Los Angeles to begin recording "Beyond The Fall Of Time", tentatively scheduled for release during late summer 2011 on Heavy Artillery Records.
Commented drummer Mario Moreno: "We've been at Black Static Studios for nine days now and we feel that we couldn't have picked a better studio to capture the new material.
"The lineup change during early 2010 set our original recording plans back by several months so we're excited to finally be recording this album.
"With the new line-up of Conan on vocals and the addition of Sean Redline on second guitar the band is at its strongest ever.
"We're really happy with the new material and the heavier sound. Sean has contributed a lot of great ideas to the album overall and Conan will finally get to showcase his vocals."
Catch EXMORTUS live at the Black Castle in Los Angeles on Friday, March 25 with WITCHAVEN, KILLBOT, ZOMBIE HOLOCAUST and more.
"Stone Of The Seven Suns", the new "official" live video from German melodic folk/death metallers SUIDAKRA, can be viewed below. The song comes off the group's 's tenth album, "Book Of Dowth", which will be released on March 25 via AFM Records. The CD was recorded at Gernhart Studio in Siegburg, Germany with producer Martin Buchwalter. Famous Belgian graphic artist Kris Verwimp once again created the cover artwork and lyrical concept.
Inspired by the darker side of Celtic lore, the concept of "Book Of Dowth" chronicles the mythology of a mysterious race of demonic beings known as the "Fomor." Starting with the discovery of an ancient book at the excavation of Dowth (a Neolithic passage tomb in the Boyne Valley, Ireland), it unveils the yet untold story of the rise and fall of the Fomorian horde throughout history and far, far beyond…
Commented the band: "The recordings for 'Book Of Dowth' went even better than expected. We shit you not! Never before have recordings gone as smooth as this time, because all people involved were well prepared and very focused."
"Book Of Dowth" track listing:
01. Over Nine Waves
02. Dowth 2059
03. Battle-Cairns
04. Biróg's Oath
05. Mag Mell
06. The Dark Mound
07. Balor
08. Stone Of The Seven Suns
09. Fury Fomoraigh
10. Otherworlds Collide
Digipak bonus tracks:
11. Rise Of Taliesin (classically re-arranged version)
12. When Eternity Echoes (classically re-arranged version)
13. Dowth 2059 (video)
As previously reported, guitarist Sebastian Hintz left SUIDAKRA due to "work-related circumstances." A new touring guitarist has been recruited for SUIDAKRA's shows in 2011: Marius "Jussi" Pesch from KINGDOM OF SALVATION.
SUIDAKRA's ninth album, "Crógacht", was released in the U.S. in March 2009 through Wacken Records/SPV.
"Global Evisceration", the fourth DVD from Florida death metal veterans CANNIBAL CORPSE, sold around 900 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 17 on the Top Music Videos chart. The disc also landed at No. 5 on the Canadian chart.
Released on March 15 via Metal Blade Records, "Global Evisceration" was shot and edited by director Denise Korycki (Wild Wind Productions) who also worked on the group's "Centuries of Torment - The First 20 Years" DVD in addition to releases from such other bands as AS I LAY DYING, MASTODON, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE and SUPERJOINT RITUAL.
"Global Evisceration" contains one disc and is approximately three hours long with artwork by the infamous Vince Locke. The main program includes full live-song performances from two live shows: the Gothic Theater in Englewood, Colorado on May 3, 2010 and Sunshine Theater in Albuquerque, New Mexico on May 8, 2010. It also contains bonus performances and extra segments, including behind-the-scenes footage covering CANNIBAL CORPSE's tours in support of the "Evisceration Plague" album.
Spanish black/death metallers NOCTEM will release their sophomore album, "Oblivion", on June 13 via Rising Records. A "signed limited tour edition" of the CD will be made available in Spain on May 24.
The follow-up to 2009's "Divinity", "Oblivion" was recorded at Ultrasound Studios 2 in Portugal with producer Daniel Cardoso (ANGELUS APATRIDA, AVA INFERI, ANNEKE VAN GIERSBERGEN) and features cover artwork by by Marcelo Vasco, the Brazilian designer who previously worked on "Divinity" as well as with bands like DIMMU BORGIR, DARK FUNERAL, SATYRICON, BELPHEGOR, GORGOROTH and many more.
According to a press release, the second part of the trilogy that started with "Divinity" will be "the hardest, fastest and darkest opus from NOCTEM to date." The CD will be a "logical progression of the last album, full of new nuances and based in a darker sound and a more complex composition."
"Oblivion" track listing:
01. Popol Vuh
02. The Arrival Of The False Gods
03. Universal Disorder
04. Abnegation And Brutality
05. Invictus
06. Sons Of Hun-Vucub
07. Seeking The Ruin Of Souls
08. Unredemption
09. Q'uma'rka'aa'j
10. A Borning Winged Snake
11. Oblivion
"Divinity" was released in April 2009 via Austria's NoiseHead Records. The CD featured guest appearances by Christos Antoniou (SEPTICFLESH, CHAOSTAR) and Leal (FOREVER SLAVE). It contained 11 tracks based on the story of the disappearance of Atlantis "from a dark and subjective point of view, speaking about its blood's desire in the battle, the darkest rituals for reaching the immortality or its society based in a polytheistic theocracy with longings of glory," according to a press release.
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/noctemofficial.
Polish black metal legends CHRIST AGONY have entered Studio X in Olsztyn, Poland with engineer Szymon Czech to begin recording their ninth album, "NocturN", for a fall release via Mystic Production. The cover artwork and the graphic design for the follow-up to 2008's "Condemnation" will be handled by BlackTeamMedia. Session drums on the effort are being performed by Zbigniew Robert "Inferno" Prominski (BEHEMOTH, AZARATH).
Commented the band: "After three days of hard work in BEHEMOTH's rehearsal room in Gdansk, CHRIST AGONY drove to the Stone Circles near Koscierzyna - Kaszuby to make a photo shoot for the new album. There under the eye of Krzysztof 'Sado' Sadowski the blasphemous union took place...
"Inferno has just finished recording the drums of death and destruction. The sound already is Mighty and Eminent... The 'NocturN' is coming!"
According to a press release, "NocturN" will consist of "one long suite, divided into eight heavy-as-hell opuses."
"NocturN" recording lineup:
Cezar - Guitar, Voices
Reyash - Bass, Voices
Inferno - Drums
0 comments:
Post a Comment