BLACK SABBATH guitarist Tony Iommi will undertake a select number of signings in the U.K. and New York to promote his upcoming memoir, "Iron Man: My Journey Through Heaven And Hell With Black Sabbath". The book will be released in the United States on November 1 in hardback by Perseus Books/DeCapo Press and in Europe on October 13 through Simon & Schuster.
Tony will be signing copies of "Iron Man"
* Monday, Oct. 17 - London, UK @ HMV FOPP
* Tuesday, Oct. 18 - Birmingham, UK @ HMV
Admission is free but a ticket is required.
Please visit the sites below for instructions on how to secure your tickets:
* hmv.com/hmvweb/navigate.do
* www.facebook.com/hmv
Please note that Tony will only be signing copies of his book "Iron Man". Any memorabilia or outside items will not be signed.
BLACK SABBATH guitarist Tony Iommi will undertake a select number of signings in the U.K. and New York to promote his upcoming memoir, "Iron Man: My Journey Through Heaven And Hell With Black Sabbath". The book will be released in the United States on November 1 in hardback by Perseus Books/DeCapo Press and in Europe on October 13 through Simon & Schuster.
Da Capo reportedly paid a six-figure amount at auction for the rights to the 352-page book, which was described as "'Angela's Ashes' meets 'The Ground Beneath Her Feet' meets 'Spinal Tap'" by Foundry Literary + Media co-founder Peter McGuigan, who completed the North American rights deal for the memoir.
In a recent interview with Guitar World magazine, Iommi explained how his autobiography came together. "I had a chap called TJ Lammers, who I met many, many years ago when he used to work at Phonogram Records," he said. "He later became a journalist and he had his own magazine. He lives in Holland and we've stayed in touch over the years. I've had a few people say, 'Oh, I can write a book for you,' but I wanted a different outlook to the normal music journalist, and that's what happened. He came over to England and stayed with me for a few days. Then he'd write it up, come back again and do more. The whole thing took a couple years to finish."
When asked how his book will be different to the typical rock biography, Iommi said, "I don't know. I don't read rock biographies, so it could be the same, it could be different. It's just my life, really. It's about what happened and what I grew up from, and how I've gone through life to where I am now. It's something I probably should have done a long time ago because there are so many books out now. I've been meaning to do it for many, many years but never got around to it."
The name "Tony Iommi" sends shivers down the spines of guitarists around the world. As lead guitarist and songwriter of BLACK SABBATH, Tony Iommi is considered to be one of the most influential musicians of the past four decades and the inventor of heavy metal. From working-class, Midlands roots, his unique playing style — a result of a disfiguring hand injury he suffered working in a sheet metal factory — created a dark and gothic sound unlike anything that had been heard before and which captured the mood of its time. SABBATH went on to become a superband, playing to massive audiences around the world and selling millions of records, and Iommi led the life of a rock star to the fullest — with the scars from all the drug-fuelled nights of excess and wildness to show for it.
"Iron Man" is the exclusive account of the life and adventures of one of rock's greatest heroes. It chronicles the story of both pioneering guitarist Tony Iommi and legendary band BLACK SABBATH, dubbed "THE BEATLES of heavy metal" by Rolling Stone magazine. "Iron Man" reveals the man behind the icon yet still captures Iommi's humor, intelligence, and warmth. He speaks honestly and unflinchingly about his rough-and-tumble childhood, the accident that almost ended his career, his failed marriages, personal tragedies, battles with addiction, bandmates, famous friends, newfound daughter, and the ups and downs of his life as an artist.
Everything associated with hard rock happened to BLACK SABBATH first: the drugs, the debauchery, the drinking, the dungeons, the pressure, the pain, the conquests, the company men, the contracts, the combustible drummer, the critics, the comebacks, the singers, the Stonehenge set, the music, the money, the madness, the metal.
Brian May (QUEEN): "Tony Iommi is the true father of heavy metal, a continuously creative genius riff-meister, and one of the world's great human beings."
Eddie Van Halen (VAN HALEN): "Without Tony, heavy metal wouldn't exist. He is the creator of heavy! Tony is a legend. He took rock and roll and turned it into heavy metal."
James Hetfield (METALLICA): "Mr. Iommi, aka . . . The Riffmaster. It's all his fault I am where I am."
Ozzy Osbourne (BLACK SABBATH): "Tony Iommi should be up there with the greats. He can pick up a guitar and play a riff that'd knock your fucking socks off."
Tony will be signing copies of "Iron Man"
* Monday, Oct. 17 - London, UK @ HMV FOPP
* Tuesday, Oct. 18 - Birmingham, UK @ HMV
Admission is free but a ticket is required.
Please visit the sites below for instructions on how to secure your tickets:
* hmv.com/hmvweb/navigate.do
* www.facebook.com/hmv
Please note that Tony will only be signing copies of his book "Iron Man". Any memorabilia or outside items will not be signed.
BLACK SABBATH guitarist Tony Iommi will undertake a select number of signings in the U.K. and New York to promote his upcoming memoir, "Iron Man: My Journey Through Heaven And Hell With Black Sabbath". The book will be released in the United States on November 1 in hardback by Perseus Books/DeCapo Press and in Europe on October 13 through Simon & Schuster.
Da Capo reportedly paid a six-figure amount at auction for the rights to the 352-page book, which was described as "'Angela's Ashes' meets 'The Ground Beneath Her Feet' meets 'Spinal Tap'" by Foundry Literary + Media co-founder Peter McGuigan, who completed the North American rights deal for the memoir.
In a recent interview with Guitar World magazine, Iommi explained how his autobiography came together. "I had a chap called TJ Lammers, who I met many, many years ago when he used to work at Phonogram Records," he said. "He later became a journalist and he had his own magazine. He lives in Holland and we've stayed in touch over the years. I've had a few people say, 'Oh, I can write a book for you,' but I wanted a different outlook to the normal music journalist, and that's what happened. He came over to England and stayed with me for a few days. Then he'd write it up, come back again and do more. The whole thing took a couple years to finish."
When asked how his book will be different to the typical rock biography, Iommi said, "I don't know. I don't read rock biographies, so it could be the same, it could be different. It's just my life, really. It's about what happened and what I grew up from, and how I've gone through life to where I am now. It's something I probably should have done a long time ago because there are so many books out now. I've been meaning to do it for many, many years but never got around to it."
The name "Tony Iommi" sends shivers down the spines of guitarists around the world. As lead guitarist and songwriter of BLACK SABBATH, Tony Iommi is considered to be one of the most influential musicians of the past four decades and the inventor of heavy metal. From working-class, Midlands roots, his unique playing style — a result of a disfiguring hand injury he suffered working in a sheet metal factory — created a dark and gothic sound unlike anything that had been heard before and which captured the mood of its time. SABBATH went on to become a superband, playing to massive audiences around the world and selling millions of records, and Iommi led the life of a rock star to the fullest — with the scars from all the drug-fuelled nights of excess and wildness to show for it.
"Iron Man" is the exclusive account of the life and adventures of one of rock's greatest heroes. It chronicles the story of both pioneering guitarist Tony Iommi and legendary band BLACK SABBATH, dubbed "THE BEATLES of heavy metal" by Rolling Stone magazine. "Iron Man" reveals the man behind the icon yet still captures Iommi's humor, intelligence, and warmth. He speaks honestly and unflinchingly about his rough-and-tumble childhood, the accident that almost ended his career, his failed marriages, personal tragedies, battles with addiction, bandmates, famous friends, newfound daughter, and the ups and downs of his life as an artist.
Everything associated with hard rock happened to BLACK SABBATH first: the drugs, the debauchery, the drinking, the dungeons, the pressure, the pain, the conquests, the company men, the contracts, the combustible drummer, the critics, the comebacks, the singers, the Stonehenge set, the music, the money, the madness, the metal.
Brian May (QUEEN): "Tony Iommi is the true father of heavy metal, a continuously creative genius riff-meister, and one of the world's great human beings."
Eddie Van Halen (VAN HALEN): "Without Tony, heavy metal wouldn't exist. He is the creator of heavy! Tony is a legend. He took rock and roll and turned it into heavy metal."
James Hetfield (METALLICA): "Mr. Iommi, aka . . . The Riffmaster. It's all his fault I am where I am."
Ozzy Osbourne (BLACK SABBATH): "Tony Iommi should be up there with the greats. He can pick up a guitar and play a riff that'd knock your fucking socks off."
Legendary heavy metal singer Ozzy Osbourne will sign copies of his new book, "Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy", at the following locations:
Tuesday, October 11, 7:00 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
7881 Edinger Avenue
Huntington, CA
Thursday, October 13, 7:00 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
10775 Westview Parkway
San Diego, CA
Friday, October 14, 7:00 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
3490 Tyler Street
Riverside, CA
Saturday, October 15, 3:00 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
189 The Grove Drive
Los Angeles, CA
Tuesday, October 18, 7:00 p.m.
Hastings
1306 West Davis
Conroe, TX
Wednesday October 19, 6:30 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
5130 East Broadway
Tucson, AZ
Thursday October 20, 6:30 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
2191 North Rainbow Boulevard
Las Vegas, NV
Friday October 21, 7:00 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
1725 Arden Way
Sacramento, CA
Saturday October 22, 3:00 p.m.
Booksmith with Amoeba Music
1644 Haight Street
San Francisco, CA
In his new book "Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy", Ozzy Osbourne embraces his status as a medical marvel to tell incredible stories, offer advice as only he can and shed light on his seemingly superhuman ability to stay alive. Due out October 11, "Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy: Advice From Rock's Ultimate Survivor" by Ozzy Osbourne with Chris Ayres (Grand Central Publishing) is the follow-up to 2010's New York Times bestselling memoir "I Am Ozzy", which landed at #2 and #3 on the New York Times and Wall Street Journal non-fiction charts, respectively.
Based on his ongoing Rolling Stone (U.S.) Sunday Times (U.K.) columns, "Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy" will include some of the best material from the columns, as well as survival stories not found in Ozzy's memoir, his answers to celebrities' medical questions, charts and sidebars, and much more. The best way to describe this book is 100% Ozzy — part memoir and part advice column, delivered with Ozzy's famous wit and humor. It's comprised of reader-submitted medical and lifestyle questions, Ozzy digs deep into his murky past, searching for pearls of "wisdom."
The genesis of the Dr. Ozzy columns began last year, when Ozzy decided to have his DNA mapped to determine if science could perhaps explain how he survived his nearly four decade avalanche of drugs and alcohol. The "Full Ozzy Genome" contained variants that scientists had never before encountered. In fact, the findings made headlines around the world and even led to Ozzy hosting a prestigious TED conference.
The official book description reads as follows: "Wondering if science could explain how he survived his 40-year avalanche of drugs and alcohol, Ozzy Osbourne became one of a handful of people in the world to have his entire DNA mapped in 2010. It was a highly complex, $65,000 process, but the results were conclusive: Ozzy is a genetic anomaly. The 'Full Ozzy Genome' contained variants that scientists had never before encountered and the findings were presented at the prestigious TEDMED conference in San Diego-making headlines around the world. The procedure was in part sponsored by The Sunday Times of London, which had already caused an international fururoe by appointing Ozzy Osbourne its star health advice columnist. The newpaper argued that Ozzy's mutliple near-death experiences, 40-year history of drug abuse, and extreme hypocondria qualified him more than any other for the job. The column was an overnight hit, being quickly picked up by Rolling Stone to give it a global audience of millions. In 'Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy', Ozzy answers reader's questions with his outrageous wit and surprising wisdom, digging deep into his past to tell the memoir-style survival stories never published before-and offer guidance that no sane human being should follow. Part humor, part memoir, and part bad advice, 'Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy' will include some of the best material from his published columns, answers to celebrities' medical questions, charts, sidebars, and more."
Ozzy last year said that his column in the Times is not meant to be taken seriously. "It's not a serious thing," he said. "I mean, I'm the last person to ask advice about health. It's just, it's not fit to be taken seriously. I mean — and I'm not doing it, I'm not writing the column personally, I've got a guy coming around, the guy who did my book, Chris Ayres, is doing the column. He brings me the column things and I just joke about it, you know. 'Cause if you believe me, you'll end up in the lunatic asylum."
Ozzy said in his first column for the Times, "If people can learn from my stupid mistakes without having to repeat any of them, or if they can take some comfort from the crazy things my family has been through over the years . . . that's more than enough for me."
Ozzy added in the column, "By all accounts, I'm a medical miracle. When I die, I should donate my body to the Natural History Museum."
In response to a Rolling Stone reader by the name of Hugh from New Mexico who asked if he should go to one of those "rub 'n' tug" massage parlors given that his girlfriend will never know, Ozzy replied, "A hand job is a very personal thing, and after a lifetime of practice, most blokes get a pretty specific preference for the kind of technique they like. So unless you're acting as a co-pilot and barking out instructions to your dodgy masseuse every two seconds, it might end up feeling more like she's skinning a dead rabbit than driving you wild with forbidden pleasure. In fact, it sounds to me like you've already built this up in your head to the point where it's gonna be an expensive disappointment. You also ain't factored in guilt. It's all very well you telling Dr. Ozzy that 'it doesn't seem wrong' to hire an extra pair of hands to help out in the monkey-spanking department, but I'm afraid to say that if you're anything like me, your conscience won't agree."
"I Am Ozzy" marked Ozzy's first foray into the book world; it tells his unbelievable story, for the first time, in his own hilarious, witty, and inimitable voice. In the end it was love that saved him: the love of his wife Sharon and kids Aimee, Kelly, and Jack.
Tuesday, October 11, 7:00 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
7881 Edinger Avenue
Huntington, CA
Thursday, October 13, 7:00 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
10775 Westview Parkway
San Diego, CA
Friday, October 14, 7:00 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
3490 Tyler Street
Riverside, CA
Saturday, October 15, 3:00 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
189 The Grove Drive
Los Angeles, CA
Tuesday, October 18, 7:00 p.m.
Hastings
1306 West Davis
Conroe, TX
Wednesday October 19, 6:30 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
5130 East Broadway
Tucson, AZ
Thursday October 20, 6:30 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
2191 North Rainbow Boulevard
Las Vegas, NV
Friday October 21, 7:00 p.m.
Barnes & Noble
1725 Arden Way
Sacramento, CA
Saturday October 22, 3:00 p.m.
Booksmith with Amoeba Music
1644 Haight Street
San Francisco, CA
In his new book "Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy", Ozzy Osbourne embraces his status as a medical marvel to tell incredible stories, offer advice as only he can and shed light on his seemingly superhuman ability to stay alive. Due out October 11, "Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy: Advice From Rock's Ultimate Survivor" by Ozzy Osbourne with Chris Ayres (Grand Central Publishing) is the follow-up to 2010's New York Times bestselling memoir "I Am Ozzy", which landed at #2 and #3 on the New York Times and Wall Street Journal non-fiction charts, respectively.
Based on his ongoing Rolling Stone (U.S.) Sunday Times (U.K.) columns, "Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy" will include some of the best material from the columns, as well as survival stories not found in Ozzy's memoir, his answers to celebrities' medical questions, charts and sidebars, and much more. The best way to describe this book is 100% Ozzy — part memoir and part advice column, delivered with Ozzy's famous wit and humor. It's comprised of reader-submitted medical and lifestyle questions, Ozzy digs deep into his murky past, searching for pearls of "wisdom."
The genesis of the Dr. Ozzy columns began last year, when Ozzy decided to have his DNA mapped to determine if science could perhaps explain how he survived his nearly four decade avalanche of drugs and alcohol. The "Full Ozzy Genome" contained variants that scientists had never before encountered. In fact, the findings made headlines around the world and even led to Ozzy hosting a prestigious TED conference.
The official book description reads as follows: "Wondering if science could explain how he survived his 40-year avalanche of drugs and alcohol, Ozzy Osbourne became one of a handful of people in the world to have his entire DNA mapped in 2010. It was a highly complex, $65,000 process, but the results were conclusive: Ozzy is a genetic anomaly. The 'Full Ozzy Genome' contained variants that scientists had never before encountered and the findings were presented at the prestigious TEDMED conference in San Diego-making headlines around the world. The procedure was in part sponsored by The Sunday Times of London, which had already caused an international fururoe by appointing Ozzy Osbourne its star health advice columnist. The newpaper argued that Ozzy's mutliple near-death experiences, 40-year history of drug abuse, and extreme hypocondria qualified him more than any other for the job. The column was an overnight hit, being quickly picked up by Rolling Stone to give it a global audience of millions. In 'Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy', Ozzy answers reader's questions with his outrageous wit and surprising wisdom, digging deep into his past to tell the memoir-style survival stories never published before-and offer guidance that no sane human being should follow. Part humor, part memoir, and part bad advice, 'Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy' will include some of the best material from his published columns, answers to celebrities' medical questions, charts, sidebars, and more."
Ozzy last year said that his column in the Times is not meant to be taken seriously. "It's not a serious thing," he said. "I mean, I'm the last person to ask advice about health. It's just, it's not fit to be taken seriously. I mean — and I'm not doing it, I'm not writing the column personally, I've got a guy coming around, the guy who did my book, Chris Ayres, is doing the column. He brings me the column things and I just joke about it, you know. 'Cause if you believe me, you'll end up in the lunatic asylum."
Ozzy said in his first column for the Times, "If people can learn from my stupid mistakes without having to repeat any of them, or if they can take some comfort from the crazy things my family has been through over the years . . . that's more than enough for me."
Ozzy added in the column, "By all accounts, I'm a medical miracle. When I die, I should donate my body to the Natural History Museum."
In response to a Rolling Stone reader by the name of Hugh from New Mexico who asked if he should go to one of those "rub 'n' tug" massage parlors given that his girlfriend will never know, Ozzy replied, "A hand job is a very personal thing, and after a lifetime of practice, most blokes get a pretty specific preference for the kind of technique they like. So unless you're acting as a co-pilot and barking out instructions to your dodgy masseuse every two seconds, it might end up feeling more like she's skinning a dead rabbit than driving you wild with forbidden pleasure. In fact, it sounds to me like you've already built this up in your head to the point where it's gonna be an expensive disappointment. You also ain't factored in guilt. It's all very well you telling Dr. Ozzy that 'it doesn't seem wrong' to hire an extra pair of hands to help out in the monkey-spanking department, but I'm afraid to say that if you're anything like me, your conscience won't agree."
"I Am Ozzy" marked Ozzy's first foray into the book world; it tells his unbelievable story, for the first time, in his own hilarious, witty, and inimitable voice. In the end it was love that saved him: the love of his wife Sharon and kids Aimee, Kelly, and Jack.
Custom hand-made Kirk Hammett (METALLICA) guitar straps made from high-end Italian leather are now available at Kirk-Hammett.com.
Commented Kirk: "My wife Lani and our friend Era used to work on leather projects ages ago at our place in Northern California. We had so many rattlesnakes on the land (and literally on our doorstep) we had to find something useful to do with them. The workshop was laced with skins, hides, and peacock feathers. It seemed back then we were all wearing something from those hills.
"There's always something artistic being made in our home, whether it's music, clothing, good food, and now guitar straps.
"I really love these straps and others will appreciate their story and craftsmanship.
"I know the concept of a guitar strap is nothing new to the world, yet I find a great need for these. They are simple (yet detailed), beautiful (and durable), extremely well made from vegetable tanned leather (in Italy no less), and just plain kick-ass!"
San Francisco-born Kirk Hammett has been playing the guitar since 1977. Influenced by musicians such as Jimi Hendrix, Michael Schenker, and Ulrich Roth, Kirk's sound is both unique and distinctive in its own right. Since 1983, Kirk has been the lead guitar player of the band METALLICA.
Also a San Francisco native, Era Balestrieri has been the apprentice of leather "Maestro" Ferruccio Serafini in Rome, Italy for nearly ten years. Her work has been featured in the New York Times Style magazine, Elle magazine, WWD, The LUXE Guide to Rome, and Italy's La Repubblica newspaper.
The idea to create a line of guitar straps was born after Era made a strap as a gift for Kirk. He was instantly hooked on the comfort and weightlessness of the leather.
Lani and Era collaborate on the design of the Kirk Hammett Guitar Straps.
Mission statement: "Creating a relevant, well-crafted and responsible product is our goal. We make our straps from the finest quality materials, starting with vegetable-tanned leather. This leather is why these straps will perform well year after year and only get better with time. No azoic colorings, nickel, chrome or harmful chemicals of any kind are used in the tanning process. These properties make them an ideal strap for those with sensitive skin or allergies to chrome-tanned leather.
"Initially, vegetable-tanned leather will have a stiffer feel than the chemically tanned variety; but with time and wear, this stiffness quickly yields to a soft and supple touch. This tanning process uses a high concentration of natural oils and fats and requires very little maintenance. With average use, a light coating of saddle soap once a year is all that is needed.
"All our straps are made using leather from the Santa Croce Sull'Arno region in Italy. Known for the high-quality process of natural tanning and drum dyeing, this leather is completely biodegradable and is produced responsibly in association with the regulations established by the Vegetable Tanning Consortium of Italy. We also use full-grain hides (not to be confused with top-grain, an inferior quality) which is a natural material where slight grain variations and scratches are inherent. These are signs that the hides were not altered in any way. In fact, they highlight the caliber of a leather unmasked by sanding, varnishing, and waxes."
Commented Kirk: "My wife Lani and our friend Era used to work on leather projects ages ago at our place in Northern California. We had so many rattlesnakes on the land (and literally on our doorstep) we had to find something useful to do with them. The workshop was laced with skins, hides, and peacock feathers. It seemed back then we were all wearing something from those hills.
"There's always something artistic being made in our home, whether it's music, clothing, good food, and now guitar straps.
"I really love these straps and others will appreciate their story and craftsmanship.
"I know the concept of a guitar strap is nothing new to the world, yet I find a great need for these. They are simple (yet detailed), beautiful (and durable), extremely well made from vegetable tanned leather (in Italy no less), and just plain kick-ass!"
San Francisco-born Kirk Hammett has been playing the guitar since 1977. Influenced by musicians such as Jimi Hendrix, Michael Schenker, and Ulrich Roth, Kirk's sound is both unique and distinctive in its own right. Since 1983, Kirk has been the lead guitar player of the band METALLICA.
Also a San Francisco native, Era Balestrieri has been the apprentice of leather "Maestro" Ferruccio Serafini in Rome, Italy for nearly ten years. Her work has been featured in the New York Times Style magazine, Elle magazine, WWD, The LUXE Guide to Rome, and Italy's La Repubblica newspaper.
The idea to create a line of guitar straps was born after Era made a strap as a gift for Kirk. He was instantly hooked on the comfort and weightlessness of the leather.
Lani and Era collaborate on the design of the Kirk Hammett Guitar Straps.
Mission statement: "Creating a relevant, well-crafted and responsible product is our goal. We make our straps from the finest quality materials, starting with vegetable-tanned leather. This leather is why these straps will perform well year after year and only get better with time. No azoic colorings, nickel, chrome or harmful chemicals of any kind are used in the tanning process. These properties make them an ideal strap for those with sensitive skin or allergies to chrome-tanned leather.
"Initially, vegetable-tanned leather will have a stiffer feel than the chemically tanned variety; but with time and wear, this stiffness quickly yields to a soft and supple touch. This tanning process uses a high concentration of natural oils and fats and requires very little maintenance. With average use, a light coating of saddle soap once a year is all that is needed.
"All our straps are made using leather from the Santa Croce Sull'Arno region in Italy. Known for the high-quality process of natural tanning and drum dyeing, this leather is completely biodegradable and is produced responsibly in association with the regulations established by the Vegetable Tanning Consortium of Italy. We also use full-grain hides (not to be confused with top-grain, an inferior quality) which is a natural material where slight grain variations and scratches are inherent. These are signs that the hides were not altered in any way. In fact, they highlight the caliber of a leather unmasked by sanding, varnishing, and waxes."
According to Here Today… Gone To Hell!, GUNS N' ROSES will perform the following U.S. shows in October/November:
Oct. 28 - Orlando, FL - Amway Center
Oct. 29 - Miami, FL - AmericanAirlines Arena
Oct. 31 - Greenville, SC - BI-LO Center
Nov. 02 - Atlanta, GA - Philips Arena
Nov. 05 - Dallas, TX - Gexa Energy Pavilion
Nov. 12 - Kansas City, MO - Sprint Center
Nov. 13 - Minneapolis, MN - Target Center
Nov. 15 - Rosemont, IL - Allstate Arena
Nov. 19 - Hartford, CT - Comcast Theatre
More dates will be announced soon.
GUNS N' ROSES made its first U.S. concert appearance in four years and only one of 2010 when it headlined the fifth and final night of the Rock 'N Rev Festival at the 70th annual Sturgis Bike Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota on August 13, 2010.
GUNS N' ROSES last toured the U.S. in 2006, and has not played any other American shows since the November 2008 release of its "Chinese Democracy" album.
"Chinese Democracy" was made available exclusively through Best Buy. The long-in-the-making, 14-song CD finally arrived 17 years after the last full-length collections of original GUNS material, "Use Your Illusion I" and "II", were released, and nine years after the non-album track "Oh My God" surfaced on the soundtrack of the movie "End Of Days".
Oct. 28 - Orlando, FL - Amway Center
Oct. 29 - Miami, FL - AmericanAirlines Arena
Oct. 31 - Greenville, SC - BI-LO Center
Nov. 02 - Atlanta, GA - Philips Arena
Nov. 05 - Dallas, TX - Gexa Energy Pavilion
Nov. 12 - Kansas City, MO - Sprint Center
Nov. 13 - Minneapolis, MN - Target Center
Nov. 15 - Rosemont, IL - Allstate Arena
Nov. 19 - Hartford, CT - Comcast Theatre
More dates will be announced soon.
GUNS N' ROSES made its first U.S. concert appearance in four years and only one of 2010 when it headlined the fifth and final night of the Rock 'N Rev Festival at the 70th annual Sturgis Bike Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota on August 13, 2010.
GUNS N' ROSES last toured the U.S. in 2006, and has not played any other American shows since the November 2008 release of its "Chinese Democracy" album.
"Chinese Democracy" was made available exclusively through Best Buy. The long-in-the-making, 14-song CD finally arrived 17 years after the last full-length collections of original GUNS material, "Use Your Illusion I" and "II", were released, and nine years after the non-album track "Oh My God" surfaced on the soundtrack of the movie "End Of Days".
MEGADETH members Chris Broderick and David Ellefson will take part in six October Jackson clinics on both coasts and a couple points in between. Don't miss this great up-close opportunity to join Broderick and Ellefson as they highlight their new Jackson signature bass and guitar models during highly informative and entertaining clinics that feature scorching performance demonstrations, dynamic group discussions with question-and-answer sessions and signings with two of today's fiercest shredders.
The dates are as follows:
Oct. 18 - Music Zoo - Roslyn, NY
Oct. 19 - Custom, Metal & Classic Guitars - Vineland, NJ
Oct. 20 - Sweetwater - Fort Wayne, IN
Oct. 25 - Spotlight Music - Ft. Collins, CO
Oct. 26 - Bizarre Guitar - Reno, NV
Oct. 27 - Guitar Trader - San Diego, CA
The dates are as follows:
Oct. 18 - Music Zoo - Roslyn, NY
Oct. 19 - Custom, Metal & Classic Guitars - Vineland, NJ
Oct. 20 - Sweetwater - Fort Wayne, IN
Oct. 25 - Spotlight Music - Ft. Collins, CO
Oct. 26 - Bizarre Guitar - Reno, NV
Oct. 27 - Guitar Trader - San Diego, CA
ANTHRAX drummer Charlie Benante will throw out the first pitch at Wednesday's (September 21) Chicago Cubs vs. Milwaukee Brewers baseball game at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois.
Says Charlie: "The Cubs meet the Brewers and NO, I can't wear any Yankee gear, hahahaha."
The so-called "Big Four of 1980s thrash metal — METALLICA, SLAYER, MEGADETH and ANTHRAX — played Yankee Stadium on September 14.
For Benante the event was extremely personal; his father, also named Charlie, was a huge baseball fan and onetime budding ballplayer, who died when Charlie Jr. was 5.
"I would give all this up just to have my father around," Benante told ESPN.com, "but to have him be there and see me playing Yankee Stadium, I know for him it would probably be the greatest thing ever."
Benante's father, who was scouted by the majors, would regale a four-year-old Charlie with all the stats and facts about the Yankees players while the two played catch in the backyard. "My dad was a huge Yankees fan," Charlie recalls. "I remember he always had the TV or radio on, listening to every Yankees game he could. He died when I was five, so he never knew about my success as a musician, but I know he would have been so proud of me playing Yankee Stadium. I know that in some way, he'll be there, giving me the power I'll need to knock it out of the park."
Says Charlie: "The Cubs meet the Brewers and NO, I can't wear any Yankee gear, hahahaha."
The so-called "Big Four of 1980s thrash metal — METALLICA, SLAYER, MEGADETH and ANTHRAX — played Yankee Stadium on September 14.
For Benante the event was extremely personal; his father, also named Charlie, was a huge baseball fan and onetime budding ballplayer, who died when Charlie Jr. was 5.
"I would give all this up just to have my father around," Benante told ESPN.com, "but to have him be there and see me playing Yankee Stadium, I know for him it would probably be the greatest thing ever."
Benante's father, who was scouted by the majors, would regale a four-year-old Charlie with all the stats and facts about the Yankees players while the two played catch in the backyard. "My dad was a huge Yankees fan," Charlie recalls. "I remember he always had the TV or radio on, listening to every Yankees game he could. He died when I was five, so he never knew about my success as a musician, but I know he would have been so proud of me playing Yankee Stadium. I know that in some way, he'll be there, giving me the power I'll need to knock it out of the park."
MANOWAR has been confirmed for the Forces Of Metal festival, set to take place June 8-9, 2012 at the E3 beach in Eersel, The Netherlands.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows (in alphabetical order):
CHROME DIVISION
CRASHDIET
DARK FUNERAL
DRACONIAN
EDGUY
JETT BLACK
KAMELOT
MANOWAR
THE POODLES
ROCK SUGAR
SAINT DEAMON
SAMAEL
STEELHEART
MANOWAR will headline the event on Friday, June 8.
For more information, visit www.forcesofmetal.com.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows (in alphabetical order):
CHROME DIVISION
CRASHDIET
DARK FUNERAL
DRACONIAN
EDGUY
JETT BLACK
KAMELOT
MANOWAR
THE POODLES
ROCK SUGAR
SAINT DEAMON
SAMAEL
STEELHEART
MANOWAR will headline the event on Friday, June 8.
For more information, visit www.forcesofmetal.com.
According to the usually reliable unofficial VAN HALEN web site Van Halen News Desk, VAN HALEN has yet to officially ink a deal with Columbia despite rumors that the band had signed with the label after spending its entire 35-year career at Warner Bros. An "inside source" tells VHND.com that "there have indeed been serious talks between the parties, but that, as of today, there is no signed deal," reads a posting on the site.
VAN HALEN's already completed new studio album — its first in 27 years to feature original singer David Lee Roth — is now expected to arrive early next year.
There has virtually no info from the VAN HALEN camp about album or tour plans. Rumors have also suggested that the band pulled out of an Australian festival tour, which was scheduled to kick off later this month.
ALTER BRIDGE guitarist Mark Tremonti recently said in an interview that he had gotten an opportunity to hear new VAN HALEN music through his friendship with Wolfgang Van Halen, saying it sounded like "vintage VAN HALEN."
Producer Ross Hogarth spoke with Ultimate-Guitar.com about the work he did on the project, saying, "The whole VAN HALEN record has been recorded and we're all excited. I'm really stoked about it, as it is the original band, Eddie and Alex with Wolf [Eddie's son] playing bass, and David Lee Roth singing, it's the killing side of VAN HALEN at the top of their game again with Diamond Dave, and the band on fire."
VAN HALEN reunited with Roth in 2007 for a successful year-long reunion tour — minus original bassist Michael Anthony, who now plays with ex-VAN HALEN singer Sammy Hagar in CHICKENFOOT.
VAN HALEN's already completed new studio album — its first in 27 years to feature original singer David Lee Roth — is now expected to arrive early next year.
There has virtually no info from the VAN HALEN camp about album or tour plans. Rumors have also suggested that the band pulled out of an Australian festival tour, which was scheduled to kick off later this month.
ALTER BRIDGE guitarist Mark Tremonti recently said in an interview that he had gotten an opportunity to hear new VAN HALEN music through his friendship with Wolfgang Van Halen, saying it sounded like "vintage VAN HALEN."
Producer Ross Hogarth spoke with Ultimate-Guitar.com about the work he did on the project, saying, "The whole VAN HALEN record has been recorded and we're all excited. I'm really stoked about it, as it is the original band, Eddie and Alex with Wolf [Eddie's son] playing bass, and David Lee Roth singing, it's the killing side of VAN HALEN at the top of their game again with Diamond Dave, and the band on fire."
VAN HALEN reunited with Roth in 2007 for a successful year-long reunion tour — minus original bassist Michael Anthony, who now plays with ex-VAN HALEN singer Sammy Hagar in CHICKENFOOT.
Ex-DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Portnoy has commented on the report that he filed a lawsuit against his former bandmates in April claiming that they "wrongfully excluded" him from the group and are "wrongfully using the name of the band in connection with [their] recording of an album without the participation or consent of [Portnoy]." The drummer's complaint, which was filed on April 27, alleges that the defendants — John Petrucci (guitar), John Myung (bass), Jordan Rudess (keyboards), James LaBrie (vocals), along with associated companies Ytse Jam, Inc. and Infinity Tours, Inc. — "are wrongfully using the name of the band in connection with the promotion of live performances by the individual defendants, without the participation or consent of [Portnoy]."
Writing on his official forum after the news broke earlier today, Portnoy said, "Everyone needs to chill out. Stop feeding into this negative poison on the net... I am legally NOT ALLOWED to speak of business matters, but I'm sure you realize there are two sides to every coin... If I could openly talk about this stuff and expalin the REALITY of everything, I would love nothing more!!! But I am legally unable to discuss it... In the meantime, life is bright and positive...I am happy and so are they....so shouldn't YOU be too??? Don't believe the hype...Carpe Diem!"
Portnoy, who co-founded DREAM THEATER more than 20 years ago, announced his departure from the band in September 2010 while on tour with AVENGED SEVENFOLD. He has since been replaced by Mike Mangini (ANNIHILATOR, EXTREME, JAMES LABRIE, STEVE VAI).
Portnoy played on AVENGED SEVENFOLD's latest album, "Nightmare", following the death of that band's drummer, Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan, and toured with them for the entire second half of 2010.
DREAM THEATER's new album, "A Dramatic Turn Of Events", was released on September 13 via Roadrunner Records.
Writing on his official forum after the news broke earlier today, Portnoy said, "Everyone needs to chill out. Stop feeding into this negative poison on the net... I am legally NOT ALLOWED to speak of business matters, but I'm sure you realize there are two sides to every coin... If I could openly talk about this stuff and expalin the REALITY of everything, I would love nothing more!!! But I am legally unable to discuss it... In the meantime, life is bright and positive...I am happy and so are they....so shouldn't YOU be too??? Don't believe the hype...Carpe Diem!"
Portnoy, who co-founded DREAM THEATER more than 20 years ago, announced his departure from the band in September 2010 while on tour with AVENGED SEVENFOLD. He has since been replaced by Mike Mangini (ANNIHILATOR, EXTREME, JAMES LABRIE, STEVE VAI).
Portnoy played on AVENGED SEVENFOLD's latest album, "Nightmare", following the death of that band's drummer, Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan, and toured with them for the entire second half of 2010.
DREAM THEATER's new album, "A Dramatic Turn Of Events", was released on September 13 via Roadrunner Records.
Bill Murphy, the publicist and official webmaster of American power metallers ICED EARTH, recently conducted an interview with the band's new singer, Stu Block (INTO ETERNITY). A few excerpts from the chat follow below.
Q: Since you've become ICED EARTH's vocalist, what has happened to you that has surprised you the most?
Stu Block: The way that my vocal is being taken to a new level. That's a big surprise. I mean, I wasn't surprised that these guys were gonna be cool. I didn't have any expectations of anyone being jerks in the band or anything like that. Those guys are just sweet dudes. Like, they're true metalheads that just love what they do and have embraced me. But it's really the vocals. As soon as I started working with Jon with my vocal style and finding that middle range in my voice, and putting that venomous shit behind it, you know what I mean?
Q: Yeah.
Stu Block: And learning technique and all that stuff. That's the thing that's surprised me the most, is I knew I had it, but it just took someone to really bring it out. And Jon [Schaffer, ICED EARTH mainman] really did that. I've said it before in a few interviews, it's almost like Christmas morning. You know, my eyes, he would see it in the studio, he'd be like, "Oh my god, you look so surprised." It's like I was like, "Oh my god, this is my new toy." And so I was having fun with it, man. And it was really cool. I'm embracing this new spot in my voice. Of course, there's always going to be those high vocals, you know, those Halford-esque vocals and all that kind of stuff. And I'm always going to put that kind of stuff in there, and the lower keens, but this middle spot in my voice, the venom spot, it's fucking killer, man. It feels good.
Q: How did it feel to let loose with one of your growls right at the start of "Dystopia"?
Stu Block: Man, well that was kind of funny. We didn't have that at the beginning, and I was sitting there in the studio, and we were all just talking about it, because we sit there deciding if we want to add anything, or maybe take something away, who knows, right? And we're sitting there, I'm like, "Man, this is speaking to me right now." And I just said, "Listen, there's a guy being forced onto a fucking train, that's going to be taken into a prison city, shaved, vaccinated, and microchipped. He's pissed off. He does not want to get in that train." So I thought a very frustrated sort of scream at the beginning, I mean, all I did was put myself in that mindset, and I screamed like I would have screamed. And it came out like that. I heard it, and Jon was so amazing, because he's like, "Go and do it right now. Let's do this. Let's try it." He's open to all sorts of ideas. Because if you're not, hey, there was a few things I was like, "Jon, let me try this, let me try this." And he's like, "No, man, that sucked." [laughs]
Q: Let me ask you about [former ICED EARTH singer] Matt [Barlow]. Everybody talks about Matt, everybody talks about [another ex-ICED EARTH vocalist] Tim ["Ripper" Owens], everybody talks about [the first ICED EARTH singer] Gene [Adam]. You just said that Matt played a big role in your life. Did you have, I don't even know how to phrase this question. Were you worried at all about living up to Matt or being like Matt or sounding like Matt?
Stu Block: As much as I look up to Matt, he's great. But there's only fucking one Matt Barlow.
Q: [laughs]
Stu Block: And I'm not gonna be him. Ever. In a million years.
Q: [laughs] Yeah.
Stu Block: No one will ever, ever. I wanna get that straight. I'm being me. I can't help it if maybe there are some Matthew-esque things that come out in my vocal. It's ICED EARTH. It brings that out in ya. You know what I mean?
Q: Yeah.
Stu Block: But I'm scared shitless what he thinks about my album, man. [laughs]
Q: [laughs]
Stu Block: You know what I mean? I hope he likes it. I hope he digs it. I hope he's proud that I'm doing it. But in the end of the day, if he hates it, he hates it. [laughs] And if he's not into me as a vocalist, that's cool too. It doesn't matter. Because I'm just trying to be me. But I've talked to him, we had a brief email exchange, and he's a very sweet motherfucker, man.
Q: Oh yeah, he's a nice guy.
Stu Block: I talked to him a few times on tour, and he's really down to earth. And I really don't think he's, I'm sure we're gonna cross paths at some point, and we're gonna talk, and I'm going to ask him, "What'd you think?" And I'm quite prepared, but I can't worry about that, because I'm just being me. I'm Stu Block, and there's one Tim Owens, and there's only one goddamn fucking Matt Barlow.
Q: [laughs]
Stu Block: [laughs] I'm gonna repeat that again to all the fans out there. One of them. And that's the thing, man. And I understand why there's so many dedicated Matt Barlow fans, because I'm a dedicated Matt Barlow fan. But I have to step away from that, and do what I do as a vocalist in ICED EARTH. And be like, I'm doing what I do because that's what Jon wants me to do. He doesn't want a Matt clone. He doesn't want a Tim clone. The crazy thing is, is that I can do a lot of those different elements. That's what all those singers do.
Q: Absolutely.
Stu Block: But there's certain things that Tim Owens and certain range in his voice that I could never touch with the power and rasp and whatever he does to get that out. There's definitely things, I mean, I wouldn't fucking ever be able to do some of the stuff that he does. But I'm pretty sure there's some things that I do that probably Tim Owens can't do. And we all possess our different qualities. It's intimidating a little bit, because I look up to Tim Owens. He's a fucking phenomenal singer. I mean, he's so technically proficient, that it's amazing. It seems like he does it without even fucking taking a breath. [laughs]
Q: [laughs] Yeah.
Stu Block: And I look up to him so much. And I look up to Matt so much, and all these guys, but I have to step out of those shoes, because now I'm in a position where I have to put my fingerprint on this. And I have to do what I do, which is Stu Block, and if certain elements come out, that's OK, but I'm gonna do what I do. And that's what I do. [laughs]
Q: Yeah. As you may have discovered so far, ICED EARTH fans are way passionate. These people are very attached to the band. In this particular question from Tarlz Bannister, she asks, "What is it like to work with the single best metal group alive?"
Stu Block: [laughs] It's a fucking dream come true, man.
Q: [laughs]
Stu Block: I mean, that's all I can say. It's like waking up from the dream and, "Oh god, I'm still in this dream." [laughs] It's awesome, man. I would actually consider it, let's say if you want to, I won the lottery kind of thing. I mean, it feels so good. Here's a funny little story for you. It's been non-stop right now. It's been crazy ever since I got the gig in March, it's been non-stop. I've been flying back and forth to Indiana, then Florida, and now Europe and all this kind of stuff, and in between I'm rehearsing. I haven't even had time to think. But the only thing I've been thinking about is doing this and focusing all my energy on this. Basically, there were a couple of moments where I was like, in the shower, and I was like, "Oh my god, I can't believe this is happening" kind of thing. You know, you kind of think to yourself for a second, like, "Wow, this is crazy." But all of a sudden the phone rings and it's like, "OK, I've got to get back to business." But we were filming. We were just in New York, and we were filming two music videos. People know there'll be a video for "Dystopia". But we were filming the other music video [from the album], and basically, there was a spot where they didn't need me in the scene, but it was all the rest of the boys and they were fucking jamming. And the lights were on them, and I was sitting there. And I got this like, goose-bump feeling, and I was looking at Jon, and I was looking at all the boys, and I was like, "Oh my god, this is insane." I almost got like a lump in my throat. I couldn't believe that I was there, being a part of this magical part of metal history. I mean, ICED EARTH is metal history, and they're always continuing to make metal history. And I'm a chapter, I'm a snippet in this amazing book.
Q: [laughs]
Stu Block: When they stopped jamming, I walked over and I almost got a tear in my eye, and I'm like, I yell at the fucking top of my lungs, "I can't fucking believe I'm in ICED EARTH!" And, of course, Jon comes up and gives me a big hug, and the rest of the guys, they give me a hug, and it was awesome, man. It was like, the guys are so good to me, and it's been surreal. It's been amazing. I don't think words can ever describe the feeling that I have. And I think that feeling stems from passion of being a metalhead, man. I feel like I've, a feeling of accomplishment, and I feel like I'm part of this amazing chapter in ICED EARTH's history. And I hope I continue to write chapters with Jon and the rest of the guys.
Q: Since you've become ICED EARTH's vocalist, what has happened to you that has surprised you the most?
Stu Block: The way that my vocal is being taken to a new level. That's a big surprise. I mean, I wasn't surprised that these guys were gonna be cool. I didn't have any expectations of anyone being jerks in the band or anything like that. Those guys are just sweet dudes. Like, they're true metalheads that just love what they do and have embraced me. But it's really the vocals. As soon as I started working with Jon with my vocal style and finding that middle range in my voice, and putting that venomous shit behind it, you know what I mean?
Q: Yeah.
Stu Block: And learning technique and all that stuff. That's the thing that's surprised me the most, is I knew I had it, but it just took someone to really bring it out. And Jon [Schaffer, ICED EARTH mainman] really did that. I've said it before in a few interviews, it's almost like Christmas morning. You know, my eyes, he would see it in the studio, he'd be like, "Oh my god, you look so surprised." It's like I was like, "Oh my god, this is my new toy." And so I was having fun with it, man. And it was really cool. I'm embracing this new spot in my voice. Of course, there's always going to be those high vocals, you know, those Halford-esque vocals and all that kind of stuff. And I'm always going to put that kind of stuff in there, and the lower keens, but this middle spot in my voice, the venom spot, it's fucking killer, man. It feels good.
Q: How did it feel to let loose with one of your growls right at the start of "Dystopia"?
Stu Block: Man, well that was kind of funny. We didn't have that at the beginning, and I was sitting there in the studio, and we were all just talking about it, because we sit there deciding if we want to add anything, or maybe take something away, who knows, right? And we're sitting there, I'm like, "Man, this is speaking to me right now." And I just said, "Listen, there's a guy being forced onto a fucking train, that's going to be taken into a prison city, shaved, vaccinated, and microchipped. He's pissed off. He does not want to get in that train." So I thought a very frustrated sort of scream at the beginning, I mean, all I did was put myself in that mindset, and I screamed like I would have screamed. And it came out like that. I heard it, and Jon was so amazing, because he's like, "Go and do it right now. Let's do this. Let's try it." He's open to all sorts of ideas. Because if you're not, hey, there was a few things I was like, "Jon, let me try this, let me try this." And he's like, "No, man, that sucked." [laughs]
Q: Let me ask you about [former ICED EARTH singer] Matt [Barlow]. Everybody talks about Matt, everybody talks about [another ex-ICED EARTH vocalist] Tim ["Ripper" Owens], everybody talks about [the first ICED EARTH singer] Gene [Adam]. You just said that Matt played a big role in your life. Did you have, I don't even know how to phrase this question. Were you worried at all about living up to Matt or being like Matt or sounding like Matt?
Stu Block: As much as I look up to Matt, he's great. But there's only fucking one Matt Barlow.
Q: [laughs]
Stu Block: And I'm not gonna be him. Ever. In a million years.
Q: [laughs] Yeah.
Stu Block: No one will ever, ever. I wanna get that straight. I'm being me. I can't help it if maybe there are some Matthew-esque things that come out in my vocal. It's ICED EARTH. It brings that out in ya. You know what I mean?
Q: Yeah.
Stu Block: But I'm scared shitless what he thinks about my album, man. [laughs]
Q: [laughs]
Stu Block: You know what I mean? I hope he likes it. I hope he digs it. I hope he's proud that I'm doing it. But in the end of the day, if he hates it, he hates it. [laughs] And if he's not into me as a vocalist, that's cool too. It doesn't matter. Because I'm just trying to be me. But I've talked to him, we had a brief email exchange, and he's a very sweet motherfucker, man.
Q: Oh yeah, he's a nice guy.
Stu Block: I talked to him a few times on tour, and he's really down to earth. And I really don't think he's, I'm sure we're gonna cross paths at some point, and we're gonna talk, and I'm going to ask him, "What'd you think?" And I'm quite prepared, but I can't worry about that, because I'm just being me. I'm Stu Block, and there's one Tim Owens, and there's only one goddamn fucking Matt Barlow.
Q: [laughs]
Stu Block: [laughs] I'm gonna repeat that again to all the fans out there. One of them. And that's the thing, man. And I understand why there's so many dedicated Matt Barlow fans, because I'm a dedicated Matt Barlow fan. But I have to step away from that, and do what I do as a vocalist in ICED EARTH. And be like, I'm doing what I do because that's what Jon wants me to do. He doesn't want a Matt clone. He doesn't want a Tim clone. The crazy thing is, is that I can do a lot of those different elements. That's what all those singers do.
Q: Absolutely.
Stu Block: But there's certain things that Tim Owens and certain range in his voice that I could never touch with the power and rasp and whatever he does to get that out. There's definitely things, I mean, I wouldn't fucking ever be able to do some of the stuff that he does. But I'm pretty sure there's some things that I do that probably Tim Owens can't do. And we all possess our different qualities. It's intimidating a little bit, because I look up to Tim Owens. He's a fucking phenomenal singer. I mean, he's so technically proficient, that it's amazing. It seems like he does it without even fucking taking a breath. [laughs]
Q: [laughs] Yeah.
Stu Block: And I look up to him so much. And I look up to Matt so much, and all these guys, but I have to step out of those shoes, because now I'm in a position where I have to put my fingerprint on this. And I have to do what I do, which is Stu Block, and if certain elements come out, that's OK, but I'm gonna do what I do. And that's what I do. [laughs]
Q: Yeah. As you may have discovered so far, ICED EARTH fans are way passionate. These people are very attached to the band. In this particular question from Tarlz Bannister, she asks, "What is it like to work with the single best metal group alive?"
Stu Block: [laughs] It's a fucking dream come true, man.
Q: [laughs]
Stu Block: I mean, that's all I can say. It's like waking up from the dream and, "Oh god, I'm still in this dream." [laughs] It's awesome, man. I would actually consider it, let's say if you want to, I won the lottery kind of thing. I mean, it feels so good. Here's a funny little story for you. It's been non-stop right now. It's been crazy ever since I got the gig in March, it's been non-stop. I've been flying back and forth to Indiana, then Florida, and now Europe and all this kind of stuff, and in between I'm rehearsing. I haven't even had time to think. But the only thing I've been thinking about is doing this and focusing all my energy on this. Basically, there were a couple of moments where I was like, in the shower, and I was like, "Oh my god, I can't believe this is happening" kind of thing. You know, you kind of think to yourself for a second, like, "Wow, this is crazy." But all of a sudden the phone rings and it's like, "OK, I've got to get back to business." But we were filming. We were just in New York, and we were filming two music videos. People know there'll be a video for "Dystopia". But we were filming the other music video [from the album], and basically, there was a spot where they didn't need me in the scene, but it was all the rest of the boys and they were fucking jamming. And the lights were on them, and I was sitting there. And I got this like, goose-bump feeling, and I was looking at Jon, and I was looking at all the boys, and I was like, "Oh my god, this is insane." I almost got like a lump in my throat. I couldn't believe that I was there, being a part of this magical part of metal history. I mean, ICED EARTH is metal history, and they're always continuing to make metal history. And I'm a chapter, I'm a snippet in this amazing book.
Q: [laughs]
Stu Block: When they stopped jamming, I walked over and I almost got a tear in my eye, and I'm like, I yell at the fucking top of my lungs, "I can't fucking believe I'm in ICED EARTH!" And, of course, Jon comes up and gives me a big hug, and the rest of the guys, they give me a hug, and it was awesome, man. It was like, the guys are so good to me, and it's been surreal. It's been amazing. I don't think words can ever describe the feeling that I have. And I think that feeling stems from passion of being a metalhead, man. I feel like I've, a feeling of accomplishment, and I feel like I'm part of this amazing chapter in ICED EARTH's history. And I hope I continue to write chapters with Jon and the rest of the guys.
Many, including yours truly, were disappointed to hear earlier this year that Matt Barlow was stepping down as lead singer for Iced Earth. After all, the brief tenure of Tim "Ripper" Owens last decade reminded us how irreplaceable Barlow truly was. Well, guitarist/songwriter/leader Jon Schaffer pulled the rug out of all of us when he hired Into Eternity howler Stu Block. We all knew the Canadian Block could scream with the best of them, but just how well he would fit in the more vocally flamboyant role with Iced Earth was anyone's guess.
All fears have been swiftly laid to rest on Iced Earth's tenth album Dystopia. Not only does Block sound like a natural fit with the band, but Schaffer's written his best collection of songs since 2001's Horror Show. More concerned with conveying hooks and energy rather than sounding as epic as he could, which plagued the last three albums, the new album is a lot more succinct as a result. Stylistically nothing has changed at all; you get the rousing old school metal tunes ("Dystopia", "Anthem", "Tragedy and Triumph"), excursions into darker territory ("Days of Rage"), and a very good ballad in the same vein as "Melancholy" ("Anguish of Youth"). Schaffer pushes all the buttons that the fans want pushed, but the big difference here is how instantly memorable these new songs are. With such strong material to work with, Block knocks them clear out of the park on his debut, displaying far more range than anyone thought he had. Dystopia is a very welcome return to form, one of the year's most pleasant surprises, and I caught up with Schaffer back in August to talk about the new record and his new singer.
***
How special was the Wacken performance for you and the band? I can't ever remember seeing as nice a send-off for a singer as what Matt had.
Jon Schaffer: It was great, man. Very emotional. There's a lot of love there, so people can talk all the s**t they want, which there certainly has been, but at the end of the day, he's family, and he just chose a different path. It was to be with his family and to pursue his career as a police officer. He just doesn't want to tour like that. We're going to hit it hard. And you know the band has to because the music industry's changing. And not only that, man, ever since I woke up to the things that are happening around me, I've been revitalized, energized, and just happier in general, and I'm really excited to start this next chapter with Iced Earth. Really going out and performing. We haven't really played that much in the last ten years, and we've got a very committed frontman now. It's a cool thing, the band is re-energized. But it was a great day, it was a great evening, and a good time. It was the best send-off you could have for a guy like Matt. He's just a great guy.
Was Matt's decision to leave the band a shock to you, or could you sense it was going to happen?
When Matt came back it was under the condition of it being a part-time thing for him. So this was no surprise. The surprise came when the financial crash of 2008 happened and how that really affected the music industry and how it seems like it's affected every industry. It's a global situation, but the music industry is very much changing, and physical sales of product are really not the thing that bands can rely on income for anymore. Bands have to get out and work, they have to in order to remain any kind of force. So we told him, "This is what we've got going, man, we want you to be a part of it but we know this is different than what we discussed when you came on board." He thought about it, there's a big part of him that really wanted to do it. But he's got two young boys, and he just doesn't want to be on the road for eight months out of the year. I understand that. For me, I don't want it either. The difference is that this has always been my career. I have never had any desire to pursue anything else, I made a commitment 25 years ago when I started this band that this what I do. I'm a songwriter, Iced Earth is my vehicle to get my songs out. That's who I am. There is no other side to me, there is no other thing, this is it. As long as I have something to say as a songwriter, Iced Earth moves forward. If that day comes to an end, then that day is probably over.
How did you wind up hiring Stu Block, anyway?
I was really interested when we were talking about all this with the label, telling them there was a good chance that this was going to be the case, Robert Kampf, one of the Century Media CEOs actually mentioned Stu's name, and I was like, "Yeah, I remember that kid from when they toured with us." We watched some of the videos, and what I really dug was the look in his eyes, the spirit behind that. I could tell this guy's hungry, he looks intense, and that's the kind of frontman Iced Earth needs. But I wasn't sure if he could really…he was using a really different voice, that's where the audition came into effect. The thing that really sealed it was us not only seeing that he has a middle range of his voice that is fertile ground, that he never used before, he was really excited about that, but also because we could write together and that we could accomplish a lot in a very short amount of time. We did a couple original songs for his tryout as well as some of the older stuff, and I really liked what I was hearing. I think we have really cool chemistry together, and it's nice to have a singer who can come up with some great vocal melodies and cadences, really contribute to their own parts. Not that Matt didn't. Lyrically, Matt came up with some really cool stuff, but Stu and I worked on his parts together, and it was a very fun process. He's got a lot to bring to the table, and he's just now really learning about this whole middle part of his voice that he's never used before. So it's going to get better and better and better, and I think when you look at what we've accomplished in a very short amount of time, it shows what the potential is for the future.
When it was announced that Stu had joined Iced Earth, for many familiar with Into Eternity, there was some doubt among some people because he was singing for a melodic death metal band.
That's the thing, man. I saw some of those people go, "Oh my god, I can't believe he hired a death metal singer, what's he thinking?" [laughs] I was like, "Come on, man, have a little more faith than that." I know what I'm doing, I've been the captain of this ship for 25 years, I know what's going on, and I know Stu has the ability, and I know he's going to be a killer frontman for the band live, and he's going to bring a whole new energy to it. It's invigorating and fun, and we're excited. He gets our sense of humor, everybody's excited about this: label, management, I am, the guys in the band are, Stu is really into it. That's the thing, man, Iced Earth has had about a decade of not having a 100 percent committed, committed on a spiritual level, frontman. We just haven't really had that, and that's a big deal. So now that we've got that, we're back. We're back with a vengeance.
When exactly did you get that "eureka" moment, where you were 100% convinced Stu was the guy?
It wasn't on the old stuff. When we were halfway through recording the song "End of Innocence", which was the first song we wrote together, when I was tracking him I was thinking, this kid's got it, man. This is going to be really cool. I think it was maybe partially into the second song that we'd written together, which ended up being "Dark City", from the vocal melodies and the tones, it was gelling pretty quick, and I said, "You've got the gig, dude."
How refreshing was it for you to step away from the big, sprawling storylines of the Something Wicked trilogy in favor of a simpler approach on Dystopia?
It just felt like the right step. The last couple albums were difficult for me because when I was in the writing process of those records, I lost three of my family members within a span of that year. I lost my brother, my sister, and my father. And that was hardcore. I can sit and listen to those records now and realize that they weren't as focused and arranged with the kind of energy that I would normally do. I hear it. It was a very difficult time. I think most people would have given up, and I soldiered on as best as I could, but after I had my awakening to a lot of the things that were going on around me, I've been much more energized and focused. That energy is culminating in Iced Earth.
How did you come to the idea for the theme of Dystopia?
Stu and I were talking about where we wanted to go with this. I think we both have concerns with where things are going in the world, how the parallels of some of these movies and things that are happening in real life are eerily connected. Certainly the Something Wicked story has a dystopian future in there, there's a couple songs based on that, the opener and the closer. Not every song is dystopian, but a lot of them are, so we knew we could come up with a cool overall vibe based on rolling with that type of theme.
Is there a song on the new album that stands out as a personal favorite?
I love the opener "Dystopia", I love the venom and vitriol, Stu's voice is f**king perfect for it. And what's so cool about it is that it shows the different stages, you've got that raging middle tone, you've got the high, Halford-like stuff, you've got the real melodic chorus. Just in that first song you hear a lot of different voices of Stu, which makes it great. "Anthem" is going to be a big song for us I think, it's just so hooky. I'm really happy with all of them, but those two I think are my favorites.
San Francisco Bay Area thrashers TESTAMENT have been spending time in the studio recording their new album, "Dark Roots Of Earth", tentatively due in February 2012 via Nuclear Blast Records.
Due to a "serious injury," regular TESTAMENT drummer Paul Bostaph was unable to take part in the recording sessions for the CD. Playing drums on the follow-up to 2008's "The Formation Of Damnation" is Gene "The Atomic Clock" Hoglan (ex-DARK ANGEL, ex-STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, FEAR FACTORY, DETHKLOK), with LAMB OF GOD's Chris Adler set to make a special guest appearance on a couple of bonus tracks.
Commented TESTAMENT guitarist Alex Skolnick: "We're more than halfway done recording the new album, 'Dark Roots of Earth'. It's coming along as well or better than any album this band has done. It just seems to have a focus, clarity and definition on a level that I don't remember at this point in the process. Of course, you can never truly sum up an album until all the tracks are recorded, the mixes are done and the entire collection is mastered. But from where things stand right now, it's looking like we may have a winner."
TESTAMENT has announced that it will again be offering special VIP/Meet-And-Greet Packs on its upcoming co-headlining tour with ANTHRAX with support from DEATH ANGEL. This is your chance to spend intimate, quality time with TESTAMENT — up close and personal!
TESTAMENT offered these packs on last year's monumental "American Carnage" tour (also featuring MEGADETH and SLAYER), which presented fans with a unique and exclusive chance to spend time with the band before doors opened, take photos and get autographs, throw up the horns, and chat. This year with the VIP/Meet-And-Greet Packs, fans will have another chance to hang out, sign autographs and take photos with the band, as well as have access to a ticket to their performance, special merchandise hand-picked by the band, and a collectible TESTAMENT laminate to commemorate this ultimate fan experience!
TESTAMENT Meet-And-Greet Package includes (full details):
* One General Admission ticket
* Meet-and-greet with select members of TESTAMENT
* Photo with select members of TESTAMENT
* Autograph opportunity with select members of TESTAMENT
* TESTAMENT merchandise items*
- T-shirt of your choice from the merch booth (before doors open)
- Opportunity to purchase a second item at half off from the merch booth (before doors open)
- Assorted guitar picks
- Wristband
- Rare, out of print "Live At The Filmore" cassette
- Original printing of "Demonic" CD
* Collectible TESTAMENT laminate
For more information on how to obtain your special VIP/Meet-And-Greet Pack, head over to www.slotix.com now!
"We love connecting with our fans and showing them same the respect and admiration they show us year after year," states vocalist Chuck Billy. "Hanging out and talking to the fans was a phenomenal experience for everyone last year. It was a first for us as well as the fans. It's a great way to join us at the shows in celebration of all that is heavy metal and to make a personal connection with us, so come hang out and commemorate this great tour!"
TESTAMENT has tapped its former drummer John Tempesta (EXODUS, WHITE ZOMBIE, ROB ZOMBIE, HELMET, THE CULT) to sit behind the kit for the band's upcoming U.S. tour with ANTHRAX and DEATH ANGEL. The trek is scheduled to kick off on October 14 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Although Tempesta recorded only two studio albums with TESTAMENT (1994's "Low" and 2001's "First Strike Still Deadly", a collection of re-recordings of songs from "The Legacy" and "The New Order"), he left a lasting impression on TESTAMENT guitarist Eric Peterson. "John is definitely one of the best drummers in the country," Peterson remarked. "He has the power of John Bonham, the finesse of Carter Beauford, and the aggression of Dave Lombardo. As a drummer, John really has it all."
SADUS drummer Jon Allen sat behind the kit for TESTAMENT when the band performed in the place of IN FLAMES at the first two shows of the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival — on July 9 in San Bernardino, California and on July 10 in Mountain View, California — as well as on the group's recently completed South American tour.
Due to a "serious injury," regular TESTAMENT drummer Paul Bostaph was unable to take part in the recording sessions for the CD. Playing drums on the follow-up to 2008's "The Formation Of Damnation" is Gene "The Atomic Clock" Hoglan (ex-DARK ANGEL, ex-STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, FEAR FACTORY, DETHKLOK), with LAMB OF GOD's Chris Adler set to make a special guest appearance on a couple of bonus tracks.
Commented TESTAMENT guitarist Alex Skolnick: "We're more than halfway done recording the new album, 'Dark Roots of Earth'. It's coming along as well or better than any album this band has done. It just seems to have a focus, clarity and definition on a level that I don't remember at this point in the process. Of course, you can never truly sum up an album until all the tracks are recorded, the mixes are done and the entire collection is mastered. But from where things stand right now, it's looking like we may have a winner."
TESTAMENT has announced that it will again be offering special VIP/Meet-And-Greet Packs on its upcoming co-headlining tour with ANTHRAX with support from DEATH ANGEL. This is your chance to spend intimate, quality time with TESTAMENT — up close and personal!
TESTAMENT offered these packs on last year's monumental "American Carnage" tour (also featuring MEGADETH and SLAYER), which presented fans with a unique and exclusive chance to spend time with the band before doors opened, take photos and get autographs, throw up the horns, and chat. This year with the VIP/Meet-And-Greet Packs, fans will have another chance to hang out, sign autographs and take photos with the band, as well as have access to a ticket to their performance, special merchandise hand-picked by the band, and a collectible TESTAMENT laminate to commemorate this ultimate fan experience!
TESTAMENT Meet-And-Greet Package includes (full details):
* One General Admission ticket
* Meet-and-greet with select members of TESTAMENT
* Photo with select members of TESTAMENT
* Autograph opportunity with select members of TESTAMENT
* TESTAMENT merchandise items*
- T-shirt of your choice from the merch booth (before doors open)
- Opportunity to purchase a second item at half off from the merch booth (before doors open)
- Assorted guitar picks
- Wristband
- Rare, out of print "Live At The Filmore" cassette
- Original printing of "Demonic" CD
* Collectible TESTAMENT laminate
For more information on how to obtain your special VIP/Meet-And-Greet Pack, head over to www.slotix.com now!
"We love connecting with our fans and showing them same the respect and admiration they show us year after year," states vocalist Chuck Billy. "Hanging out and talking to the fans was a phenomenal experience for everyone last year. It was a first for us as well as the fans. It's a great way to join us at the shows in celebration of all that is heavy metal and to make a personal connection with us, so come hang out and commemorate this great tour!"
TESTAMENT has tapped its former drummer John Tempesta (EXODUS, WHITE ZOMBIE, ROB ZOMBIE, HELMET, THE CULT) to sit behind the kit for the band's upcoming U.S. tour with ANTHRAX and DEATH ANGEL. The trek is scheduled to kick off on October 14 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Although Tempesta recorded only two studio albums with TESTAMENT (1994's "Low" and 2001's "First Strike Still Deadly", a collection of re-recordings of songs from "The Legacy" and "The New Order"), he left a lasting impression on TESTAMENT guitarist Eric Peterson. "John is definitely one of the best drummers in the country," Peterson remarked. "He has the power of John Bonham, the finesse of Carter Beauford, and the aggression of Dave Lombardo. As a drummer, John really has it all."
SADUS drummer Jon Allen sat behind the kit for TESTAMENT when the band performed in the place of IN FLAMES at the first two shows of the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival — on July 9 in San Bernardino, California and on July 10 in Mountain View, California — as well as on the group's recently completed South American tour.
"Age Of The Joker", the new album from German melodic metallers EDGUY, has registered the following first-week chart positions:
Germany: #3
Czech Republic: #10
Sweden: #10
Switzerland: #13
UK (Rock Chart): #14
Finland: #15
Norway: #26
Austria: #30
Spain #44
France: #63
Japan: #74
Italy: #79
Commented EDGUY vocalist Tobias Sammet: "Nuclear Blast gave us a fortune to produce this album and it was enough to even buy all sorts of useless things on top of it. When they opened their wallets, they did not know we'd come up with the best album since 'Back In Black'. And now they even get some of their money back, fantastic!
"It seems like the assholes who dislike the album are just a minority (of maybe 6.9297 billion people worldwide, but that's a different story — it just proves that a lot of asses need to be kicked yet and we start the convincing-the-world-that-EDGUY-are-the-kings-of-metal-tour next Thursday in Malmö).
"Well, number 25 [on the 'worldwide' chart] is not too bad, considering that when those figures were ascertained, the album wasn't even out in a lot of countries (e.g. Canada, USA...)...
"Jesus, aren't we great? God bless you, especially those who bought the album and also the fuckers who think we're a bunch of losers without talent."
"Age Of The Joker" was released in Europe on August 29 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD was recorded at Peppermint Park studio (SCORPIONS, PHIL COLLINS) in Hannover, which was previously described by the group as "a recording temple with a tremendously great-sounding room." The album features 11 songs with a total running time of over one hour. The limited-edition digipack contains a bonus disc with six additional songs.
"Age Of The Joker" track listing:
01. Robin Hood
02. Nobody's Hero
03. Rock Of Cashel
04. Pandora's Box
05. Breathe
06. Two Out Of Seven
07. Faces In The Darkness
08. The Arcane Guild
09. Fire On The Downline
10. Behind The Gates To Midnight World
11. Every Night Without You
Limited-edition bonus disc track listing:
01. God Fallen Silent
02. Aleister Crowley Memorial Boogie
03. Cum On Feel The Noize (SLADE cover)
04. Standing In The Rain
05. Robin Hood (single version)
06. Two Out Of Seven (single version)
EDGUY's new video, "Robin Hood", can be seen below. Video director Oliver Sommer (AVANTASIA, NENA, HELLOWEEN) and the band decided to satirize the Errol Flynn film "The Adventures Of Robin Hood". The miniature epic was shot in the forest with a large number of additional actors, starring German TV comedian Bernhard Hoecker in two different leading roles.
Germany: #3
Czech Republic: #10
Sweden: #10
Switzerland: #13
UK (Rock Chart): #14
Finland: #15
Norway: #26
Austria: #30
Spain #44
France: #63
Japan: #74
Italy: #79
Commented EDGUY vocalist Tobias Sammet: "Nuclear Blast gave us a fortune to produce this album and it was enough to even buy all sorts of useless things on top of it. When they opened their wallets, they did not know we'd come up with the best album since 'Back In Black'. And now they even get some of their money back, fantastic!
"It seems like the assholes who dislike the album are just a minority (of maybe 6.9297 billion people worldwide, but that's a different story — it just proves that a lot of asses need to be kicked yet and we start the convincing-the-world-that-EDGUY-are-the-kings-of-metal-tour next Thursday in Malmö).
"Well, number 25 [on the 'worldwide' chart] is not too bad, considering that when those figures were ascertained, the album wasn't even out in a lot of countries (e.g. Canada, USA...)...
"Jesus, aren't we great? God bless you, especially those who bought the album and also the fuckers who think we're a bunch of losers without talent."
"Age Of The Joker" was released in Europe on August 29 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD was recorded at Peppermint Park studio (SCORPIONS, PHIL COLLINS) in Hannover, which was previously described by the group as "a recording temple with a tremendously great-sounding room." The album features 11 songs with a total running time of over one hour. The limited-edition digipack contains a bonus disc with six additional songs.
"Age Of The Joker" track listing:
01. Robin Hood
02. Nobody's Hero
03. Rock Of Cashel
04. Pandora's Box
05. Breathe
06. Two Out Of Seven
07. Faces In The Darkness
08. The Arcane Guild
09. Fire On The Downline
10. Behind The Gates To Midnight World
11. Every Night Without You
Limited-edition bonus disc track listing:
01. God Fallen Silent
02. Aleister Crowley Memorial Boogie
03. Cum On Feel The Noize (SLADE cover)
04. Standing In The Rain
05. Robin Hood (single version)
06. Two Out Of Seven (single version)
EDGUY's new video, "Robin Hood", can be seen below. Video director Oliver Sommer (AVANTASIA, NENA, HELLOWEEN) and the band decided to satirize the Errol Flynn film "The Adventures Of Robin Hood". The miniature epic was shot in the forest with a large number of additional actors, starring German TV comedian Bernhard Hoecker in two different leading roles.
ARCH ENEMY are going to hit the US soil pretty soon with the 'North American Khaos Tour' and METAL KAOZ got in touch with the band's charismatic guitarist Mike Ammot to learn all the latest news and find out what will happen during the US tour. Do we have to mention how much METAL KAOZ loves ARCH ENEMY's new album title? Read the reason why...
Hey Mike, how are you?
I am good, man. We are at home, rehearsing and getting ready to hit the road on the US and Canada tour. We are preparing a special setlist for those dates. We have just played a couple of summer festival in Europe and we are preparing to go on tour again.
I am good, man. We are at home, rehearsing and getting ready to hit the road on the US and Canada tour. We are preparing a special setlist for those dates. We have just played a couple of summer festival in Europe and we are preparing to go on tour again.
How many songs are you rehearsing for this upcoming tour?
In total? Hmm, I am not sure and I do not know how long the setlist will turn out. We plan to include four or five songs from the new album "Khaos Legions" and a whole bunch of other stuff so, I think it is going to be a good show. We will have some new "toys" for this tour and among them is the new video footage synchronized with the music that looks great!
In total? Hmm, I am not sure and I do not know how long the setlist will turn out. We plan to include four or five songs from the new album "Khaos Legions" and a whole bunch of other stuff so, I think it is going to be a good show. We will have some new "toys" for this tour and among them is the new video footage synchronized with the music that looks great!
Will you be changing the setlist every night or are you planning to keep it the same?
Usually, when we find a good set of songs we tend to keep it throughout the entire tour. Because when we find a good song flow we want to keep it. But, you never know there might be a few surprises here and there.
Usually, when we find a good set of songs we tend to keep it throughout the entire tour. Because when we find a good song flow we want to keep it. But, you never know there might be a few surprises here and there.
Can playing the same string of songs every night be a little bit boring for you?
No, not really. It's like somebody asked Ritchie Blackmore if he ever got bored playing with DEEP PURPLE "Smoke On The Water". And he said no, because it is a great a song, the fans love it and that makes it a high moment in every concert. I think in a sense it is the same way for us. We don't really love rehearsing songs like "We Will Rise", "Nemesis" or "Dead Eyes See No Future" but when we play them live they connect so well with the fans that it becomes a very exciting moment.
No, not really. It's like somebody asked Ritchie Blackmore if he ever got bored playing with DEEP PURPLE "Smoke On The Water". And he said no, because it is a great a song, the fans love it and that makes it a high moment in every concert. I think in a sense it is the same way for us. We don't really love rehearsing songs like "We Will Rise", "Nemesis" or "Dead Eyes See No Future" but when we play them live they connect so well with the fans that it becomes a very exciting moment.
Usually, in the shows you play an instrumental track with a lot of guitar work; do you have something ready for this tour?
Yeah, we had prepared a guitar and a drum solo. This is something we love doing and I think it adds different dynamics into the show. Since we do not have ballads (laughs) there is no other way to change the flow of the show. I think adding softer instrumental tracks works in the shows.
Yeah, we had prepared a guitar and a drum solo. This is something we love doing and I think it adds different dynamics into the show. Since we do not have ballads (laughs) there is no other way to change the flow of the show. I think adding softer instrumental tracks works in the shows.
After the US/Canada days you have one gig in Japan…
Yeah, in Japan we play in a big festival and we are co-headliners with WHITESNAKE.
Yeah, in Japan we play in a big festival and we are co-headliners with WHITESNAKE.
Are there plans to add more shows in Japan? After all, those guys seem to love ARCH ENEMY.
Yes, we are going to get back next year with a full headlining Japan tour and other Asian countries. But these have to wait until for 2012.
Yes, we are going to get back next year with a full headlining Japan tour and other Asian countries. But these have to wait until for 2012.
So, it seems 2012 to be fully booked for you…
Yeah, 2012 will be another big ARCH ENEMY year! We are also coming to Greece and I think this is where you are calling from right?
Yeah, 2012 will be another big ARCH ENEMY year! We are also coming to Greece and I think this is where you are calling from right?
No, in fact I am in Chicago, US.
(laughs) But Dimitris is kind of Greek right?
(laughs) But Dimitris is kind of Greek right?
Yes, it is and I am from Greece but I live in the US.
Great! So, we start in Greece next year (in January I think) with a couple of shows (Athens and Thessaloniki) then we have some dates in that region before hitting a full scale European tour.
Great! So, we start in Greece next year (in January I think) with a couple of shows (Athens and Thessaloniki) then we have some dates in that region before hitting a full scale European tour.
That sound awfully busy…
Yes it does but it is fun since we have a new album "Khaos Legions" and we haven't really done a full tour for that apart from some festivals.
Yes it does but it is fun since we have a new album "Khaos Legions" and we haven't really done a full tour for that apart from some festivals.
You do know that our site is called METAL KAOZ, right? So, I think I have to thank you for the promotion…
(laughs) Yeah, I saw that, so it seems I have to thank you also! (laughs)
(laughs) Yeah, I saw that, so it seems I have to thank you also! (laughs)
The new album kind of sounds a little bit more melodic than the previous one…
Yeah, but to tell you the truth I really don't know. I am doing a lot of interviews and some people think it is dirtier, more aggressive and some say it is softer, more melodic (laughs). But, this is the cool thing with music that is a subjective experience, isn't it? It is different for everybody and hopefully is a good experience for most of the fans. I think the new album has all the elements that you'd expect from an ARCH ENEMY album: the drumming, the guitar work and of course Angela's voice. I think we have written some really good songs and in fact we had some pretty good reactions to the new songs when we played them live in Europe. And that I think validates the fact that we are on the right track.
Yeah, but to tell you the truth I really don't know. I am doing a lot of interviews and some people think it is dirtier, more aggressive and some say it is softer, more melodic (laughs). But, this is the cool thing with music that is a subjective experience, isn't it? It is different for everybody and hopefully is a good experience for most of the fans. I think the new album has all the elements that you'd expect from an ARCH ENEMY album: the drumming, the guitar work and of course Angela's voice. I think we have written some really good songs and in fact we had some pretty good reactions to the new songs when we played them live in Europe. And that I think validates the fact that we are on the right track.
You mentioned Angela's voice and I have to ask you: does she use any type of distortion in the studio or while onstage?
You know Andy Sneap mixed our album and he just used in her vocals the same stuff he uses with any other band; so, we are talking about some compression and some delay and nothing out of the ordinary.
You know Andy Sneap mixed our album and he just used in her vocals the same stuff he uses with any other band; so, we are talking about some compression and some delay and nothing out of the ordinary.
You have also a signature Dean guitar model. So, what was your input in designing this model?
When I was in Tampa, Florida - where they are based - I was invited in their HQ and met all the people, talked about the guitars and the models, visited the wood shop and talked about tones, sounds, different techniques and about the previous guitar model I had from another company. We talked about the things that I didn't like in my previous guitar and in the end I think we had two or three prototypes and then finalized our decision. So, I was very much involved in the process. I really love guitars and all the gear since after all these are my tools that help me create my sound.
When I was in Tampa, Florida - where they are based - I was invited in their HQ and met all the people, talked about the guitars and the models, visited the wood shop and talked about tones, sounds, different techniques and about the previous guitar model I had from another company. We talked about the things that I didn't like in my previous guitar and in the end I think we had two or three prototypes and then finalized our decision. So, I was very much involved in the process. I really love guitars and all the gear since after all these are my tools that help me create my sound.
You have also a North US competition planned giving away one of this guitar models.
Yes, that's right we are giving away one of this new models.
Yes, that's right we are giving away one of this new models.
So, please note down my name for that…
Ok, I will! I think we are having a little bit of corruption going on here (laughs).
Ok, I will! I think we are having a little bit of corruption going on here (laughs).
Ok, so is it true that you are handling the management / booking of ARCH ENEMY?
Yes, I mean we've been self-managed since 2008, we were with a massive company before called Sanctuary but I think now it's much better. Angela's is in charge of the management of the band and she runs the day-to-day business and she is very involved. It's a big job, you know. But we are much happier than how we worked before. That doesn't mean anything bad about the people that we've worked before but there is a real good feeling to be in control of your own future. We can plan our future the way we want and I think we got a bit lucky of course, on touring around the world, we had the opportunity to play almost in every corner of the world and that's the touring advantage of course. We are just love doing it! We're much happier now. Maybe too happy to play such dark music (laughs).
Yes, I mean we've been self-managed since 2008, we were with a massive company before called Sanctuary but I think now it's much better. Angela's is in charge of the management of the band and she runs the day-to-day business and she is very involved. It's a big job, you know. But we are much happier than how we worked before. That doesn't mean anything bad about the people that we've worked before but there is a real good feeling to be in control of your own future. We can plan our future the way we want and I think we got a bit lucky of course, on touring around the world, we had the opportunity to play almost in every corner of the world and that's the touring advantage of course. We are just love doing it! We're much happier now. Maybe too happy to play such dark music (laughs).
(laughs) Well, the new album took you almost 4 years after the previous one to be released; so, can we expect the next ARCH ENEMY album in 2015?
Hopefully a little bit earlier than 2015. This album took a while to come out because after with "Rise Of The Tyrant" we wanted to hit the road and started touring like crazy all over the place. In 2008 we separated with our management and took sometime to re-structure everything and while Angela was doing that I joined with the guys from CARCASS and - I don't know if you are aware of it - we did reunion show across the world in 2008 and 2009. When I was off that tour we really didn't have ARCH ENEMY material at that point, so we decided to re-record old songs and we released them in "The Root Of All Evil" album which is basically ARCH ENEMY covering themselves but with the current line up. Before that we released a DVD with footage taken from our live in Japan. So we had all those releases going on but no actually brand new music. Last year (2010) we realized that really wanted to write a new album but there were some special circumstances that took longer than the usual time for us. But the next album will be released in 8 years from now (laughs)! There won't be any record industry at all (laughs)
Hopefully a little bit earlier than 2015. This album took a while to come out because after with "Rise Of The Tyrant" we wanted to hit the road and started touring like crazy all over the place. In 2008 we separated with our management and took sometime to re-structure everything and while Angela was doing that I joined with the guys from CARCASS and - I don't know if you are aware of it - we did reunion show across the world in 2008 and 2009. When I was off that tour we really didn't have ARCH ENEMY material at that point, so we decided to re-record old songs and we released them in "The Root Of All Evil" album which is basically ARCH ENEMY covering themselves but with the current line up. Before that we released a DVD with footage taken from our live in Japan. So we had all those releases going on but no actually brand new music. Last year (2010) we realized that really wanted to write a new album but there were some special circumstances that took longer than the usual time for us. But the next album will be released in 8 years from now (laughs)! There won't be any record industry at all (laughs)
Taking into account the current economical crisis you might be right. You mentioned CARCASS - actually we saw your show in 'Graspop', 2-3 years ago I think. Any news from that part? Are you going to do something with CARCASS?
CARCASS is on ice now as far as I'm concerned. Daniel, our drummer, is in CARCASS too and we are very busy now (2011) with the new ARCH ENEMY album and also we are gonna be in 2012. We have a big schedule ahead of us with ARCH ENEMY and we have to focus on that. But as far as the future goes, I don't know. I really want to find time to play with CARCASS and it's fun music to play. We don't know what happens in the future.
CARCASS is on ice now as far as I'm concerned. Daniel, our drummer, is in CARCASS too and we are very busy now (2011) with the new ARCH ENEMY album and also we are gonna be in 2012. We have a big schedule ahead of us with ARCH ENEMY and we have to focus on that. But as far as the future goes, I don't know. I really want to find time to play with CARCASS and it's fun music to play. We don't know what happens in the future.
Good. What about SPIRITUAL BEGGARS?
With SPIRITUAL BEGGARS we released our new album in 2010 actually. We have a Greek 'bastard' on vocals actually (laughs) and that's our Greek connection. We did a few shows playing in Japan, and we played in Greece actually and we did some summer festivals and played at 'Graspop' actually. So, now I don't know. It's difficult to keep that stuff going on in the same way we do with ARCH ENEMY. ARCH ENEMY is the main band and it's very time-consuming.
With SPIRITUAL BEGGARS we released our new album in 2010 actually. We have a Greek 'bastard' on vocals actually (laughs) and that's our Greek connection. We did a few shows playing in Japan, and we played in Greece actually and we did some summer festivals and played at 'Graspop' actually. So, now I don't know. It's difficult to keep that stuff going on in the same way we do with ARCH ENEMY. ARCH ENEMY is the main band and it's very time-consuming.
You have mentioned the long touring plan and then again some time getting back to the studio; can this plan be tough on you and sometimes feeling a bit over-pressed by all these?
I think that we all need sometimes a sort of a break I mean in 2013. But for me, I'm always happy when I'm playing music, guitar, creating new stuff. It's kinda what I live for, it's my dream, what I've always wanted. Before that I did jobs which were much more physically demanding, so I think I'm really happy that I achieved to come to the point where I can do this for living. So it's not too stressful for me personally. But maybe we'll take a break in 2013 because we don't want to be around all the time, people will get sick of us, man (laughs)! Also, in 2013 I don't know if we are gonna touring but we'll start to work on a new album at that point. So, you may not hearing from us at that time, but we will still working somewhere in a dark basement.
I think that we all need sometimes a sort of a break I mean in 2013. But for me, I'm always happy when I'm playing music, guitar, creating new stuff. It's kinda what I live for, it's my dream, what I've always wanted. Before that I did jobs which were much more physically demanding, so I think I'm really happy that I achieved to come to the point where I can do this for living. So it's not too stressful for me personally. But maybe we'll take a break in 2013 because we don't want to be around all the time, people will get sick of us, man (laughs)! Also, in 2013 I don't know if we are gonna touring but we'll start to work on a new album at that point. So, you may not hearing from us at that time, but we will still working somewhere in a dark basement.
Great. One last question: I will be attending the Chicago show of ARCH ENEMY; what new can we expect from ARCH ENEMY onstage? We have seen you live, so what is new?
(laughs) We have a new show, new setlist, new album out of course; the shows are focused on the new album of course. I think we get more energized than the European festivals and anxious about the new material. I'm really exciting about playing in the US. Chicago is always a great show for us. We are really looking forward to it, yeah!
(laughs) We have a new show, new setlist, new album out of course; the shows are focused on the new album of course. I think we get more energized than the European festivals and anxious about the new material. I'm really exciting about playing in the US. Chicago is always a great show for us. We are really looking forward to it, yeah!
What about the bands you have with you in the US tour; do you have anything to do with choosing them?
Yeah, we have a booking agent in the US and he suggested some bands to Angela and she kinda said yes or no. I think Angela picked those bands. It's DEVILDRIVER, SKELETONWITCH and CHTHONIC which actually that's the band that Angela suggested. She wanted them on the tour. They are friends of Angela's.
Yeah, we have a booking agent in the US and he suggested some bands to Angela and she kinda said yes or no. I think Angela picked those bands. It's DEVILDRIVER, SKELETONWITCH and CHTHONIC which actually that's the band that Angela suggested. She wanted them on the tour. They are friends of Angela's.
Ok, Mike, I'm done here. Thank you for your time to do this nice conversation and getting in touch with METAL KAOZ. See you here in the States and I wish the best for you.
Thank you very much! The same goes for you, man. METAL KAOZ forever!
Thank you very much! The same goes for you, man. METAL KAOZ forever!
After wrapping up their fall dates on the Rockstar Energy Drink Uproar festival, AVENGED SEVENFOLD will hit the road for their own headlining "Buried Alive" tour, which launches in Ft. Meyers, Florida on November 23. VIP bundles will be available for all tour dates on September 20. Tickets for all shows go on sale Friday, September 23, except for shows in Minneapolis and Yakima, Washigton, which go on sale Saturday, September 24. HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD, ASKING ALEXANDRIA, and BLACK VEIL BRIDES are also on the bill, offering fans an incredible value with four of the hottest bands in rock today. Ticket prices range from $35 to $45, including special family four pack offers in particular markets.
The tour takes its name from "Buried Alive", the fourth single from the Huntington Beach, California rock band's gold album "Nightmare". All three previous singles from "Nightmare" — the title track, "Welcome to the Family" and "So Far Away" — have peaked at No. 1 on the Active Rock chart. Released worldwide in July 2010, "Nightmare" earned AVENGED SEVENFOLD its highest-ever debut on the Billboard album chart when it bowed at No. 1 and topped Billboard's Rock, Hard Rock, and Digital charts. The title track was the most played song at Media Base Active Rock for 2010.
Lead singer M. Shadows told The Pulse Of Radio that the band really wants to make an impact when it shoots a video for "Buried Alive" and even had a director in mind. "We do want to do something super-special with 'Buried Alive'," he said. "We're looking for a good, like, video director — not necessarily a video guy but more of a movie guy. We talked to Rob Zombie, unfortunately he's doing his new movie right now or he'd want to do it. But we want to do something cool with it, something underground, exciting and kind of crazy. We're not gonna edit it, so who knows what's gonna happen with it, but we feel it's probably the strongest track on the record."
Los Angeles' HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD released its second album "American Tragedy" in April, which peaked at No. 4 on The Billboard 200 Albums chart and No. 1 on the Hard Rock Albums chart. Britain's ASKING ALEXANDRIA's sophomore full-length album release, "Reckless and Relentless", debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard Top 200. The band has performed on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" and appeared on the cover of AP and Guitar World.
Hollywood's BLACK VEIL BRIDES hit No. 1 on the Billboard Independent Albums with their 2010 debut album, "We Stitch These Wounds", followed by their second album, "Set The World On Fire", which peaked at No. 17 on the Billboard Top 200 chart.
"Buried Alive" tour dates:
Nov. 23 - Fort Meyers, FL - Germain Arena
Nov. 25 - Jacksonville, FL - Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena
Nov. 26 - Augusta, GA - James Brown Arena
Nov. 28 - Huntsville, AL - Von Braun Center
Nov. 29 - Pikeville, KY - East Kentucky Expo Center
Nov. 30 - Fort Wayne, IN - Allen County War Memorial
Dec. 02 - Madison, WI - Alliant Energy Center (no HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD)
Dec. 03 - Minneapolis, MN - Target Center
Dec. 06 - Green Bay, WI - Resch Center
Dec. 07 - Duluth, MN - Amsoil Arena
Dec. 09 - Grand Forks, ND - Alerus Center
Dec. 10 - Bismarck, ND - Bismarck Civic Center
Dec. 12 - Billings, MT - Metra Park Arena
Dec. 13 - Missoula, MT - Adams Center
Dec. 14 - Yakima, WA - Sun Dome
AVENGED SEVENFOLD and organizers of the Rockstar Energy Drink Uproar tour teamed with WCCC-FM in Hartford, Connecticut to raise $11,000 in recognition of the 10th anniversary of 9/11. Checks for $5500 were presented to both the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund onstage at the September 11 Uproar show in Hartford. The money raised included donations from the festival, fans and WCCC listeners.
The tour takes its name from "Buried Alive", the fourth single from the Huntington Beach, California rock band's gold album "Nightmare". All three previous singles from "Nightmare" — the title track, "Welcome to the Family" and "So Far Away" — have peaked at No. 1 on the Active Rock chart. Released worldwide in July 2010, "Nightmare" earned AVENGED SEVENFOLD its highest-ever debut on the Billboard album chart when it bowed at No. 1 and topped Billboard's Rock, Hard Rock, and Digital charts. The title track was the most played song at Media Base Active Rock for 2010.
Lead singer M. Shadows told The Pulse Of Radio that the band really wants to make an impact when it shoots a video for "Buried Alive" and even had a director in mind. "We do want to do something super-special with 'Buried Alive'," he said. "We're looking for a good, like, video director — not necessarily a video guy but more of a movie guy. We talked to Rob Zombie, unfortunately he's doing his new movie right now or he'd want to do it. But we want to do something cool with it, something underground, exciting and kind of crazy. We're not gonna edit it, so who knows what's gonna happen with it, but we feel it's probably the strongest track on the record."
Los Angeles' HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD released its second album "American Tragedy" in April, which peaked at No. 4 on The Billboard 200 Albums chart and No. 1 on the Hard Rock Albums chart. Britain's ASKING ALEXANDRIA's sophomore full-length album release, "Reckless and Relentless", debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard Top 200. The band has performed on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" and appeared on the cover of AP and Guitar World.
Hollywood's BLACK VEIL BRIDES hit No. 1 on the Billboard Independent Albums with their 2010 debut album, "We Stitch These Wounds", followed by their second album, "Set The World On Fire", which peaked at No. 17 on the Billboard Top 200 chart.
"Buried Alive" tour dates:
Nov. 23 - Fort Meyers, FL - Germain Arena
Nov. 25 - Jacksonville, FL - Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena
Nov. 26 - Augusta, GA - James Brown Arena
Nov. 28 - Huntsville, AL - Von Braun Center
Nov. 29 - Pikeville, KY - East Kentucky Expo Center
Nov. 30 - Fort Wayne, IN - Allen County War Memorial
Dec. 02 - Madison, WI - Alliant Energy Center (no HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD)
Dec. 03 - Minneapolis, MN - Target Center
Dec. 06 - Green Bay, WI - Resch Center
Dec. 07 - Duluth, MN - Amsoil Arena
Dec. 09 - Grand Forks, ND - Alerus Center
Dec. 10 - Bismarck, ND - Bismarck Civic Center
Dec. 12 - Billings, MT - Metra Park Arena
Dec. 13 - Missoula, MT - Adams Center
Dec. 14 - Yakima, WA - Sun Dome
AVENGED SEVENFOLD and organizers of the Rockstar Energy Drink Uproar tour teamed with WCCC-FM in Hartford, Connecticut to raise $11,000 in recognition of the 10th anniversary of 9/11. Checks for $5500 were presented to both the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund onstage at the September 11 Uproar show in Hartford. The money raised included donations from the festival, fans and WCCC listeners.
Former SKID ROW singer Sebastian Bach will be the featured guest on this Thursday's (September 22) edition of "George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight" (formerly "The Hour"). The program, which airs at 11:00 p.m. on CBC in Canada, is hosted by Canadian television and radio personality George Stroumboulopoulos and is taped at the Canadian Broadcasting Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada in front of a live studio audience.
Says Bach: "You can come be in the audience and on the show with me! Tapes at 3 p.m.
For tickets, sent an e-mail to Georgetickets@cbc.ca.
Bach's new album, "Kicking & Screaming", will be released on September 27 via Frontiers Records. The CD was produced by Bob Marlette (BLACK SABBATH, SHINEDOWN, ATREYU, FILTER) and features young virtuosic guitarist Nick Sterling and drum pro Bobby Jarzombek (HALFORD, RIOT, ICED EARTH). The follow-up to 2007's "Angel Down" was mastered at Precision Mastering in Los Angeles with Tom Baker.
Bach stated about his new solo material, "This CD will follow along the lines of 'Skid Row', 'Slave To The Grind', 'Subhuman Race' and 'Angel Down'. If you like rockin' guitar riffs, high-energy songs and performances, deadly drums of doom, and ear-shattering screams, we got your rock right here!" He also described the songs as "heavy, interesting, classic sounding, modern sounding, completely rock 'n' roll — just how we like it!"
Says Bach: "You can come be in the audience and on the show with me! Tapes at 3 p.m.
For tickets, sent an e-mail to Georgetickets@cbc.ca.
Bach's new album, "Kicking & Screaming", will be released on September 27 via Frontiers Records. The CD was produced by Bob Marlette (BLACK SABBATH, SHINEDOWN, ATREYU, FILTER) and features young virtuosic guitarist Nick Sterling and drum pro Bobby Jarzombek (HALFORD, RIOT, ICED EARTH). The follow-up to 2007's "Angel Down" was mastered at Precision Mastering in Los Angeles with Tom Baker.
Bach stated about his new solo material, "This CD will follow along the lines of 'Skid Row', 'Slave To The Grind', 'Subhuman Race' and 'Angel Down'. If you like rockin' guitar riffs, high-energy songs and performances, deadly drums of doom, and ear-shattering screams, we got your rock right here!" He also described the songs as "heavy, interesting, classic sounding, modern sounding, completely rock 'n' roll — just how we like it!"
DISTURBED has set "The Lost Children" as the title of its upcoming B-sides compilation album, tentatively due before the end of the year.
DISTURBED frontman David Draiman recently spoke out on the speculation regarding the band's future, which he himself started in July when he hinted that the group's current tour could be its last for a while — if not for good. Draiman confirmed to The Pulse Of Radio that DISTURBED plans to take an indefinite hiatus, and gave some hints about the "personal reasons" behind the decision. "Many of those reasons are have to do with the state of the music industry in general and, you know, the demise of hard rock and heavy metal right now, and I think it's just a good time for DISTURBED, after 10 to 12 years straight of touring, to go away for a little while and kind of wait for the phoenix to rise from the ashes here," he said. "It's frightening times right now, and it's just a good time for us to go away."
But Draiman also admitted that DISTURBED may in fact never come back. "It could be a concern," he said. "You don't know. We don't know. I can't definitively tell you one way or the other at this point. We really haven't gotten that far in our discussions. We all agree that we are going to step away for an indefinite period of time."
Draiman told Billboard that one thing the hiatus is not about is any personal strife between the four band members, saying, "This is really not due to any animosity — I want to make that very clear. In fact, we just had dinner together last night. Believe me, it's not like we can't work with each other anymore or we don't get along."
The singer said that all four members of the group have other creative endeavors they'd like to pursue, with both he and guitarist Dan Donegan interested in producing other acts.
Draiman added that he doesn't think a solo album is in his future. But he also told Billboard, "Depending on how far those individual interests end up taking us, and depending on how much we end up missing (the band) over the course of time — which, of course, at some point I'm sure we will — that will determine if and when we return."
DISTURBED frontman David Draiman recently spoke out on the speculation regarding the band's future, which he himself started in July when he hinted that the group's current tour could be its last for a while — if not for good. Draiman confirmed to The Pulse Of Radio that DISTURBED plans to take an indefinite hiatus, and gave some hints about the "personal reasons" behind the decision. "Many of those reasons are have to do with the state of the music industry in general and, you know, the demise of hard rock and heavy metal right now, and I think it's just a good time for DISTURBED, after 10 to 12 years straight of touring, to go away for a little while and kind of wait for the phoenix to rise from the ashes here," he said. "It's frightening times right now, and it's just a good time for us to go away."
But Draiman also admitted that DISTURBED may in fact never come back. "It could be a concern," he said. "You don't know. We don't know. I can't definitively tell you one way or the other at this point. We really haven't gotten that far in our discussions. We all agree that we are going to step away for an indefinite period of time."
Draiman told Billboard that one thing the hiatus is not about is any personal strife between the four band members, saying, "This is really not due to any animosity — I want to make that very clear. In fact, we just had dinner together last night. Believe me, it's not like we can't work with each other anymore or we don't get along."
The singer said that all four members of the group have other creative endeavors they'd like to pursue, with both he and guitarist Dan Donegan interested in producing other acts.
Draiman added that he doesn't think a solo album is in his future. But he also told Billboard, "Depending on how far those individual interests end up taking us, and depending on how much we end up missing (the band) over the course of time — which, of course, at some point I'm sure we will — that will determine if and when we return."
POISON frontman Bret Michaels is the newest celebrity to partner with the multi-channel retailer HSN.
Michaels, in partnership with Dean Guitars, will launch his "Signature Acoustic Guitar Collection" and the exclusive HSN guitar bundle on October 2 at 8 p.m. EDT.
"I'm thrilled to bring my signature line of guitars, my vocal warm-up CD and my solo album, 'Custom Built', to HSN," said Bret Michaels. "HSN has a track-record of bringing innovative, high-quality products to their customers, so this is a natural partnership for me."
The exclusive acoustic guitar package includes a choice of either a black Player guitar or a pink Jorja Raine guitar and an 8 x 10 lithograph signed photo of Bret Michaels, a Bret Michaels guitar strap, a set of three Bret Michaels guitar picks and a "Learn To Play" DVD with over 400 minutes of practice sessions from TrueFire for $299.95.
A two-disk vocalizer CD including a collection of vocal warm up exercises for aspiring singers as well as Bret's CD, "Custom Built", will also be available for sale.
During the primetime special event on October 2 at 8 p.m. EDT, Michaels will also play a six-song set in front of a live studio audience at HSN headquarters in St. Petersburg, Florida. The setlist will feature some of Bret's greatest hits as the front man for POISON and his solo career, including "Every Rose Has Its Thorn", "Something To Believe In" and "All I Ever Needed".
Michaels, in partnership with Dean Guitars, will launch his "Signature Acoustic Guitar Collection" and the exclusive HSN guitar bundle on October 2 at 8 p.m. EDT.
"I'm thrilled to bring my signature line of guitars, my vocal warm-up CD and my solo album, 'Custom Built', to HSN," said Bret Michaels. "HSN has a track-record of bringing innovative, high-quality products to their customers, so this is a natural partnership for me."
The exclusive acoustic guitar package includes a choice of either a black Player guitar or a pink Jorja Raine guitar and an 8 x 10 lithograph signed photo of Bret Michaels, a Bret Michaels guitar strap, a set of three Bret Michaels guitar picks and a "Learn To Play" DVD with over 400 minutes of practice sessions from TrueFire for $299.95.
A two-disk vocalizer CD including a collection of vocal warm up exercises for aspiring singers as well as Bret's CD, "Custom Built", will also be available for sale.
During the primetime special event on October 2 at 8 p.m. EDT, Michaels will also play a six-song set in front of a live studio audience at HSN headquarters in St. Petersburg, Florida. The setlist will feature some of Bret's greatest hits as the front man for POISON and his solo career, including "Every Rose Has Its Thorn", "Something To Believe In" and "All I Ever Needed".
California rockers BANG TANGO will release their new album, "Pistol Whipped In The Bible Belt", on September 27 via Seventy-Eight Productions.
Pre-orders for the CD are now being taken through PayPal by using the email address getbangednow@aol.com.
In late July, BANG TANGO drummer Trent Anderson told Sleaze Roxx about the band's new album, "The producers, Kevin Rodgers and Daniel Salcido, were awesome. They brought in a vocal coach for Joe Leste — her name is Lisa Beery — and she really helped bring out an amazing performance from Joe.
"The songs have a bit of influence from the firth release, as well as some ROLLING STONES influence, and a tiny bit of BEAUTIFUL CREATURES on it.
"[Former BANG TANGO guitarist] Alex Grossi co-wrote a song on the album called 'Suck It Up'.
"All in all, we're not trying to change the world with this album; we hope all the old fans, and the new ones, like the record. We do understand there will always be people judging and comparing it to the original albums, but we just wanted to do another CD. We had some really great ideas and we want to give something to all our fans, friends and family that have been coming out to our shows lately; the crowds have been really good."
BANG TANGO currently consists of Joe Leste (vocals), Lance Eric (bass), Scott LaFlamme (guitar) and Trent Anderson (drums).
Pre-orders for the CD are now being taken through PayPal by using the email address getbangednow@aol.com.
In late July, BANG TANGO drummer Trent Anderson told Sleaze Roxx about the band's new album, "The producers, Kevin Rodgers and Daniel Salcido, were awesome. They brought in a vocal coach for Joe Leste — her name is Lisa Beery — and she really helped bring out an amazing performance from Joe.
"The songs have a bit of influence from the firth release, as well as some ROLLING STONES influence, and a tiny bit of BEAUTIFUL CREATURES on it.
"[Former BANG TANGO guitarist] Alex Grossi co-wrote a song on the album called 'Suck It Up'.
"All in all, we're not trying to change the world with this album; we hope all the old fans, and the new ones, like the record. We do understand there will always be people judging and comparing it to the original albums, but we just wanted to do another CD. We had some really great ideas and we want to give something to all our fans, friends and family that have been coming out to our shows lately; the crowds have been really good."
BANG TANGO currently consists of Joe Leste (vocals), Lance Eric (bass), Scott LaFlamme (guitar) and Trent Anderson (drums).
Long-running Arizona metallers FLOTSAM AND JETSAM have parted ways with drummer Craig Nielsen and have been rejoined by Kelly David Smith.
The band's current lineup is the same as the one that recorded the "Cuatro" (1992), "Drift" (1995) and "High" (1997) albums:
Eric "A.K." Knutson - Vocals
Ed Carlson - Guitar
Michael Gilbert - Guitar
Jason Ward - Bass
Kelly David Smith – Drums
Funding for the next FLOTSAM AND JETSAM album is being aided by the PledgeMusic.comproject, which encourages fans to contribute funds to the recording of albums and the artists themselves to donate to charity as a part of their fundraising. An early 2012 release is expected.
FLOTSAM AND JETSAM's latest album, "The Cold", was released in Europe in February via Nuclear Blast. The CD's cover artwork was created by Travis Smith, who has previously worked with OPETH, NEVERMORE, AMORPHIS and KING DIAMOND, among others.
"The Cold" was released in North America on September 14, 2010.
The band's current lineup is the same as the one that recorded the "Cuatro" (1992), "Drift" (1995) and "High" (1997) albums:
Eric "A.K." Knutson - Vocals
Ed Carlson - Guitar
Michael Gilbert - Guitar
Jason Ward - Bass
Kelly David Smith – Drums
Funding for the next FLOTSAM AND JETSAM album is being aided by the PledgeMusic.comproject, which encourages fans to contribute funds to the recording of albums and the artists themselves to donate to charity as a part of their fundraising. An early 2012 release is expected.
FLOTSAM AND JETSAM's latest album, "The Cold", was released in Europe in February via Nuclear Blast. The CD's cover artwork was created by Travis Smith, who has previously worked with OPETH, NEVERMORE, AMORPHIS and KING DIAMOND, among others.
"The Cold" was released in North America on September 14, 2010.
The idea of big bands playing small rooms is always a special experience for the fans, but for JANE'S ADDICTION, their special engagements that have them partnering with Citi in September and October to launch their newest offering "The Great Escape Artist", will also take them back to re-play some of their early classic shows in legendary venues. On Monday, October 3 and Tuesday, October 4, the alternative rock pioneers will perform at Hollywood's historic John Anson Ford Theatre where in April of 1989 they completed a series of sold-out shows for their ground-breaking debut album "Nothing's Shocking" (originally released in August 1988).
These dates for JANE'S ADDICTION — frontman Perry Farrell, guitarist Dave Navarro and drummer Stephen Perkins, along with Chris Chaney on bass — are a part of a one-of-a-kind series of two-night stands that will also take place in Chicago at the Metro (where they initially launched "Nothing's Shocking" with two sold-out shows in 1988) and New York (details to be announced).
"In '89 we created a unique atmosphere at John Anson Ford. Back then it became a community and a party. Stephen Perkins even played drums in the parking lot for everyone as they entered the venue," says Navarro. "Now we are going back to play this special L.A. venue and intend on making these shows just as unique."
Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets for the Los Angeles shows beginning Tuesday, September 20 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time through Citi's Private Pass Program.
For complete presale details, visit www.citiprivatepass.com.
"The Great Escape Artist" will be released on Tuesday, October 18 via Capitol. For the CD, JANE'S ADDICTION joined forces with producer Rich Costey (MUSE, FRANZ FERDINAND, INTERPOL), with TV ON THE RADIO's Dave Sitek on the team. Sitek, best known for his production work on TV ON THE RADIO, YEAH YEAH YEAHS and THE FOALS, is writing, programming, and playing bass on the album.
JANE'S ADDICTION parted ways with bassist Duff McKagan (DUFF MCKAGAN'S LOADED, VELVET REVOLVER, ex-GUNS N' ROSES) last September after only five months of working together.
These dates for JANE'S ADDICTION — frontman Perry Farrell, guitarist Dave Navarro and drummer Stephen Perkins, along with Chris Chaney on bass — are a part of a one-of-a-kind series of two-night stands that will also take place in Chicago at the Metro (where they initially launched "Nothing's Shocking" with two sold-out shows in 1988) and New York (details to be announced).
"In '89 we created a unique atmosphere at John Anson Ford. Back then it became a community and a party. Stephen Perkins even played drums in the parking lot for everyone as they entered the venue," says Navarro. "Now we are going back to play this special L.A. venue and intend on making these shows just as unique."
Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets for the Los Angeles shows beginning Tuesday, September 20 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time through Citi's Private Pass Program.
For complete presale details, visit www.citiprivatepass.com.
"The Great Escape Artist" will be released on Tuesday, October 18 via Capitol. For the CD, JANE'S ADDICTION joined forces with producer Rich Costey (MUSE, FRANZ FERDINAND, INTERPOL), with TV ON THE RADIO's Dave Sitek on the team. Sitek, best known for his production work on TV ON THE RADIO, YEAH YEAH YEAHS and THE FOALS, is writing, programming, and playing bass on the album.
JANE'S ADDICTION parted ways with bassist Duff McKagan (DUFF MCKAGAN'S LOADED, VELVET REVOLVER, ex-GUNS N' ROSES) last September after only five months of working together.
Portuguese metallers MOONSPELL have been confirmed for next year's edition of the Wacken Open Air festival, set to take place August 2-4, 2012 in Wacken, Germany. The band's show, dubbed "Sombra", will feature a complete orchestra and will be in support of MOONSPELL's new album, due out in April via an as-yet-undisclosed record label.
MOONSPELL completed the "Sombra" (English translation: Shadow) tour of Portugal in November-December. The band performed acoustic and semi-acoustic versions of its best-known songs while backed by the Crystal Mountain Singers female choir and the Opus Diabolicum quintet composed of four cellists and a percussionist.
MOONSPELL released a DVD, "Lusitanian Metal", in December 2008 in Europe via Century Media Records.
The band's latest album, "Night Eternal", entered the national chart in Portugal at No. 3 and in Germany at No. 62. The follow-up to 2006's "Memorial" was recorded at Antfarm studios in Denmark with producer Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, DARK TRANQUILLITY, HALFORD).
MOONSPELL vocalist Fernando Ribeiro recently revealed that the band's new album's initials are "A.N.".
MOONSPELL completed the "Sombra" (English translation: Shadow) tour of Portugal in November-December. The band performed acoustic and semi-acoustic versions of its best-known songs while backed by the Crystal Mountain Singers female choir and the Opus Diabolicum quintet composed of four cellists and a percussionist.
MOONSPELL released a DVD, "Lusitanian Metal", in December 2008 in Europe via Century Media Records.
The band's latest album, "Night Eternal", entered the national chart in Portugal at No. 3 and in Germany at No. 62. The follow-up to 2006's "Memorial" was recorded at Antfarm studios in Denmark with producer Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, DARK TRANQUILLITY, HALFORD).
MOONSPELL vocalist Fernando Ribeiro recently revealed that the band's new album's initials are "A.N.".
British singer Damian Wilson (THRESHOLD, LANDMARQ, AYREON) has revealed the artwork and track listing for his upcoming compilation album, "I Thought The World Was Listening. 1997-2011", to be released on October 28. The 31-track, two-disc set features remastered tracks from throughout Wilson's solo career, re-recorded versions of important songs and previously unreleased new material.
Disc 1
01. Disciple
02. Commune
03. Beating Inside
04. Please Don't Leave Me 'Til I Leave You
05. Never Close The Door
06. One Life
07. A Long Way Home
08. Naturally *
09. Homegrown (original demo version)
10. Adam's Child
11. Quietly Spoken *
12. When I Leave This Land
13. She's Like A Fable (feat. Rick Wakeman)
14. Spin **
15. See You There ***
16. Wedding Song **
Disc 2
01. Array Of Lights **
02. Brightest Way
03. Light In The Middle
04. Smile
05. For The One I Long **
06. Warning Light
07. Moment Of Your Doubt **
08. Naked
09. Subway
10. Fine Weather *
11. Nothing In This World Remains The Same *
12. Just The Way It Goes
13. Feels Good
14. Nothing Without You
15. Part Of Me *
* New version
** Previously unreleased
*** Hidden track on Disciple
"I Thought The World Was Listening. 1997-2011" will be released on CD and as a digital download.
An acoustic solo tour in support of the set is being planned for November.
The album can be pre-ordered until October 10. The pre-order package includes:
* A signed copy of the CD
* A bonus CD as digital download, featuring the live set Damian did in 2006 with STREAM OF PASSION
* A DAMIAN WILSON BAND t-shirt - 2 designs to choose from.
* A DAMIAN WILSON BAND stick-on tattoo
Disc 1
01. Disciple
02. Commune
03. Beating Inside
04. Please Don't Leave Me 'Til I Leave You
05. Never Close The Door
06. One Life
07. A Long Way Home
08. Naturally *
09. Homegrown (original demo version)
10. Adam's Child
11. Quietly Spoken *
12. When I Leave This Land
13. She's Like A Fable (feat. Rick Wakeman)
14. Spin **
15. See You There ***
16. Wedding Song **
Disc 2
01. Array Of Lights **
02. Brightest Way
03. Light In The Middle
04. Smile
05. For The One I Long **
06. Warning Light
07. Moment Of Your Doubt **
08. Naked
09. Subway
10. Fine Weather *
11. Nothing In This World Remains The Same *
12. Just The Way It Goes
13. Feels Good
14. Nothing Without You
15. Part Of Me *
* New version
** Previously unreleased
*** Hidden track on Disciple
"I Thought The World Was Listening. 1997-2011" will be released on CD and as a digital download.
An acoustic solo tour in support of the set is being planned for November.
The album can be pre-ordered until October 10. The pre-order package includes:
* A signed copy of the CD
* A bonus CD as digital download, featuring the live set Damian did in 2006 with STREAM OF PASSION
* A DAMIAN WILSON BAND t-shirt - 2 designs to choose from.
* A DAMIAN WILSON BAND stick-on tattoo
"Nothing Remains The Same", the 2002 album from the Swedish "hard electronic metal" band PAIN — led by HYPOCRISY mainman Peter Tägtgren — has been certified gold in the group's home country for sales in excess of 30,000 copies.
Note: The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) in Sweden has revised the sales requirements for albums to reach gold status in the country twice in the last seven years — from the pre-2002 level of 40,000 to the current 20,000.
Commented Tägtgren: "Thanks a lot to all the painheads in Sweden for this award! I'm happy to see that one can still sell CDs these days."
In other news, PAIN's November 13 concert at Debaser Medis in Stockholm, Sweden will be filmed for a forthcoming DVD.
PAIN's latest album, "You Only Live Twice", was released on June 3 in Europe and June 21 in North America via Nuclear Blast Records.
Note: The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) in Sweden has revised the sales requirements for albums to reach gold status in the country twice in the last seven years — from the pre-2002 level of 40,000 to the current 20,000.
Commented Tägtgren: "Thanks a lot to all the painheads in Sweden for this award! I'm happy to see that one can still sell CDs these days."
In other news, PAIN's November 13 concert at Debaser Medis in Stockholm, Sweden will be filmed for a forthcoming DVD.
PAIN's latest album, "You Only Live Twice", was released on June 3 in Europe and June 21 in North America via Nuclear Blast Records.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada's WARMACHINE has announced the addition of drummer Dave Langguth (NELLY FURTADO, RIK EMMETT, GILBY CLRKE) to the group's ranks. The band states, "Dave is one of the best drummers in the industry. His incredible talent and ability behind the kit speaks for itself. We are honored to welcome him to the family."
Dave will make his live debut with WARMACHINE this coming Friday, September 23 at The Rockpile in Toronto.
WARMACHINE released its long-awaited new album, "Left For Dead", on July 23 via JMD Records. The CD was once again produced by Murray Daigle and was recorded in Canada.
WARMACHINE's "Raw in the Hammer" DVD contains footage from the band's January 20, 2007 concert at The Underground in Hamilton, a documentary on the band's history, behind-the-scenes footage and more.
WARMACHINE's debut album, "The Beginning of the End", was released in 2006 in North America via Nightmare Records.
"The Beginning of the End" features a guest appearance on three tracks ("Betrayed", "Empty" and "Taunted Souls") by MEGADETH bassist David Ellefson.
For more information, visit www.warmachineonline.com.
Dave will make his live debut with WARMACHINE this coming Friday, September 23 at The Rockpile in Toronto.
WARMACHINE released its long-awaited new album, "Left For Dead", on July 23 via JMD Records. The CD was once again produced by Murray Daigle and was recorded in Canada.
WARMACHINE's "Raw in the Hammer" DVD contains footage from the band's January 20, 2007 concert at The Underground in Hamilton, a documentary on the band's history, behind-the-scenes footage and more.
WARMACHINE's debut album, "The Beginning of the End", was released in 2006 in North America via Nightmare Records.
"The Beginning of the End" features a guest appearance on three tracks ("Betrayed", "Empty" and "Taunted Souls") by MEGADETH bassist David Ellefson.
For more information, visit www.warmachineonline.com.
Swedish metallers SCARPOINT have just released their sophomore album, "The Mask Of Sanity", via Supernova Records. The CD was recorded at Fear and Loathing — the Stockholm studio owned by members of MESHUGGAH and CLAWFINGER — with producer Jocke Skog of CLAWFINGER and features a guest appearance by MESHUGGAH guitarist Fredrik Thordendal.
"The Mask Of Sanity" track listing:
01. The Unknown, The Extinct
02. Numb
03. Ancient Curse
04. Bleeding Me Dry
05. The Mask Of Sanity
06. Only Truth
07. Hate Will Prevail
08. Ugly
09. Extermination
10. Despicable Lies
11. Last Winter
12. Burning In Hell
13. L.O.S.P.
According to a press release, "The diversity and musicianship on 'The Mask Of Sanity' is astounding as the band moves freely from the relentless barrage of apocalyptic riffage in one song to a dark, moodier, even groovier swagger of another. With an album that's so rich in texture and enchantingly dynamic yet still relentlessly heavy, SCARPOINT are set to breathe life into the often stale genre of melodic death metal. You've been warned!!"
SCARPOINT's full-length debut, "The Silence We Deserve", was released in October 2007 via Blind Prophecy Records. The CD was recorded at the Dug-Out Productions with renowned producer Daniel Bergstrand (MESHUGGAH, IN FLAMES).
SCARPOINT is:
Henrik Englund - Vocals
Zoran Kukulj - Guitar
Ola Englund - Guitar
Chris Goldsmith - Bass
Erik Thyselius - Drums
"The Mask Of Sanity" track listing:
01. The Unknown, The Extinct
02. Numb
03. Ancient Curse
04. Bleeding Me Dry
05. The Mask Of Sanity
06. Only Truth
07. Hate Will Prevail
08. Ugly
09. Extermination
10. Despicable Lies
11. Last Winter
12. Burning In Hell
13. L.O.S.P.
According to a press release, "The diversity and musicianship on 'The Mask Of Sanity' is astounding as the band moves freely from the relentless barrage of apocalyptic riffage in one song to a dark, moodier, even groovier swagger of another. With an album that's so rich in texture and enchantingly dynamic yet still relentlessly heavy, SCARPOINT are set to breathe life into the often stale genre of melodic death metal. You've been warned!!"
SCARPOINT's full-length debut, "The Silence We Deserve", was released in October 2007 via Blind Prophecy Records. The CD was recorded at the Dug-Out Productions with renowned producer Daniel Bergstrand (MESHUGGAH, IN FLAMES).
SCARPOINT is:
Henrik Englund - Vocals
Zoran Kukulj - Guitar
Ola Englund - Guitar
Chris Goldsmith - Bass
Erik Thyselius - Drums
"Circle Of 8", a brand new song from Dutch old-school metallers MARTYR, can be streamed in the YouTube clip below. The track is the title cut of the band's new album, which is scheduled for release in Europe on November 7 via Metal Blade Records. The CD contains 11 new tracks and a re-recording of fan favorite "Speed Of Samurai".
"Circle Of 8" track listing:
01. D.I.
02. Afterlife
03. Art Of Deception
04. Circle Of 8
05. All Warriors Bleed
06. The Uninvited
07. Insensible Scream
08. Scene Of Hell
09. Fake
10. Justified Killing
11. Locked
12. Speed Of Samurai
During the five years that MARTYR was alive and kicking (1982-1987), the band released two albums that are considered classics and a delight for those who love strong melodies, speedy riffs and a high level of technicality — "For The Universe" (1985) and "Darkness At Time's Edge" (1986). During that period, MARTYR appeared on compilation albums from Roadrunner and Metal Blade, was voted Holland's best new metal band in Aardschok magazine, toured with several international acts and appeared on Sky channel's "Monsters Of Rock" program.
MARTYR disbanded in 1987, but reunited in 2001 to play at the Heavy Metal Maniacs festival. Four years later, the band reformed with almost the complete 1982 lineup to perform at the Headbangers Open Air and Keep It True festivals. The flame has been burning again and the band continued to play live ever since.
In December 2008 MARTYR supported U.S. shock rockers LIZZY BORDEN on their European tour and played shows in 2009 and 2010 with FLOTSAM AND JETSAM, VICIOUS RUMORS, JAGUAR and EVERGREY, among others.
In 2009, the first new MARTYR record in almost 25 years saw the light of day. A new EP titled "Fear" was coupled with a re-release of the classic "For The Universe" album and made available as a double digipack entitled "Fear The Universe" on Rusty Cage Records.
MARTYR is:
Rick Bouwman - Guitar
Wilfried Broekman - Drums
Rop van Haren - Vocals
Marcel Heesakkers - Guitar
Toine van der Linden – Bass
"Circle Of 8" track listing:
01. D.I.
02. Afterlife
03. Art Of Deception
04. Circle Of 8
05. All Warriors Bleed
06. The Uninvited
07. Insensible Scream
08. Scene Of Hell
09. Fake
10. Justified Killing
11. Locked
12. Speed Of Samurai
During the five years that MARTYR was alive and kicking (1982-1987), the band released two albums that are considered classics and a delight for those who love strong melodies, speedy riffs and a high level of technicality — "For The Universe" (1985) and "Darkness At Time's Edge" (1986). During that period, MARTYR appeared on compilation albums from Roadrunner and Metal Blade, was voted Holland's best new metal band in Aardschok magazine, toured with several international acts and appeared on Sky channel's "Monsters Of Rock" program.
MARTYR disbanded in 1987, but reunited in 2001 to play at the Heavy Metal Maniacs festival. Four years later, the band reformed with almost the complete 1982 lineup to perform at the Headbangers Open Air and Keep It True festivals. The flame has been burning again and the band continued to play live ever since.
In December 2008 MARTYR supported U.S. shock rockers LIZZY BORDEN on their European tour and played shows in 2009 and 2010 with FLOTSAM AND JETSAM, VICIOUS RUMORS, JAGUAR and EVERGREY, among others.
In 2009, the first new MARTYR record in almost 25 years saw the light of day. A new EP titled "Fear" was coupled with a re-release of the classic "For The Universe" album and made available as a double digipack entitled "Fear The Universe" on Rusty Cage Records.
MARTYR is:
Rick Bouwman - Guitar
Wilfried Broekman - Drums
Rop van Haren - Vocals
Marcel Heesakkers - Guitar
Toine van der Linden – Bass
ANIMETAL USA, the American counterpart to ANIMETAL — the Japanese heavy metal band which specialized in metal covers of popular Japanese anime/tokusatsu theme songs — will make its live debut at this year's edition of the Loud Park festival, set to take place October 15 at Saitama Super Arena, a multi-purpose indoor arena located in Saitama City, Japan.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows:
LIMP BIZKIT
WHITESNAKE
ARCH ENEMY
THE DARKNESS
TRIVIUM
UNISONIC
KROKUS
STRYPER
AMARANTHE
AUGUST BURNS RED
ANIMETAL USA
A short preview of ANIMETAL USA's new video can be seen at the band's newly launched web site.
ANIMETAL USA is:
* Mike Vescera (OBSESSION, LOUDNESS) - Vocals
* Rudy Sarzo (BLUE ÖYSTER CULT, OZZY OSBOURNE, QUIET RIOT, WHITESNAKE, DIO) – Bass
Scott Travis (JUDAS PRIEST, RACER X, FIGHT) - Drums
Chris Impellitteri (IMPELLITTERI) - Guitar
ANIMETAL USA will release its self-titled debut album in Japan on October 12 via Sony Music Entertainment. The group is planning a world tour next year, including dates in Japan and the U.S.
Says Impellitteri: "I wanted to confirm that I am indeed playing with the band ANIMETAL. The band is playing a mix of classic Anime songs mixed with our own original heavy metal riffs, solos, vocals, bass and drum parts. The record is pretty insane sounding! The playing is intense and the live show is extremely theatrical. It should be lots of fun for our fans. All four of us worked extremely hard to take Anime to a new level. So, I hope you have a chance to join us on this new musical journey both on record and live. Hope to see you soon as our first show will be announced soon!"
"Animetal USA" track listing is as follows:
01. Uchuusenkan Yamato
02. Gatchaman No Uta
03. Mazinger Medley
04. Makafushigi Adventure!
05. Zankokuna Tenshino Thesis
06. Aiwo Torimodose!!
07. Ganbare Dokaben
08. Pegasus Fantasy
09. Yuke Tigermask
10. Fight! Kinnikuman Go Fight!
11. Yukeyuke Hyuma
The festival billing is shaping up as follows:
LIMP BIZKIT
WHITESNAKE
ARCH ENEMY
THE DARKNESS
TRIVIUM
UNISONIC
KROKUS
STRYPER
AMARANTHE
AUGUST BURNS RED
ANIMETAL USA
A short preview of ANIMETAL USA's new video can be seen at the band's newly launched web site.
ANIMETAL USA is:
* Mike Vescera (OBSESSION, LOUDNESS) - Vocals
* Rudy Sarzo (BLUE ÖYSTER CULT, OZZY OSBOURNE, QUIET RIOT, WHITESNAKE, DIO) – Bass
Scott Travis (JUDAS PRIEST, RACER X, FIGHT) - Drums
Chris Impellitteri (IMPELLITTERI) - Guitar
ANIMETAL USA will release its self-titled debut album in Japan on October 12 via Sony Music Entertainment. The group is planning a world tour next year, including dates in Japan and the U.S.
Says Impellitteri: "I wanted to confirm that I am indeed playing with the band ANIMETAL. The band is playing a mix of classic Anime songs mixed with our own original heavy metal riffs, solos, vocals, bass and drum parts. The record is pretty insane sounding! The playing is intense and the live show is extremely theatrical. It should be lots of fun for our fans. All four of us worked extremely hard to take Anime to a new level. So, I hope you have a chance to join us on this new musical journey both on record and live. Hope to see you soon as our first show will be announced soon!"
"Animetal USA" track listing is as follows:
01. Uchuusenkan Yamato
02. Gatchaman No Uta
03. Mazinger Medley
04. Makafushigi Adventure!
05. Zankokuna Tenshino Thesis
06. Aiwo Torimodose!!
07. Ganbare Dokaben
08. Pegasus Fantasy
09. Yuke Tigermask
10. Fight! Kinnikuman Go Fight!
11. Yukeyuke Hyuma
The last three albums from British extreme metal pioneers BOLT THROWER — "Mercenary" (1998), "Honour Valour Pride" (2001) and "Those Once Loyal" (2005) — will be reissued on vinyl on October 24 via Metal Blade Records. All three albums will be released as gatefold LPs in colored vinyl, limited to 1.000 units each.
BOLT THROWER indefinitely postponed plans to record a new studio album after the band realized that the new stuff it had written "just doesn't match up" to the group's last CD, "Those Once Loyal". "We have a lot of pride in our back catalogue, and we refuse to turn into one of the many bands (like the ones we grew up listening to) who end up releasing crap, and we're also not prepared to compromise by instead releasing an album of cover versions or a 'best-of' album," BOLT THROWER explained in a statement.
"Those Once Loyal" entered the German Media Control chart at position No. 76 — the group's highest-charting release in Germany so far. The follow-up to 2001's "Honour, Valour, Pride" was recorded at Andy Faulkner's Sable Rose studios and was the band's first album since the return of original vocalist Karl Willetts as a full-time member.
BOLT THROWER indefinitely postponed plans to record a new studio album after the band realized that the new stuff it had written "just doesn't match up" to the group's last CD, "Those Once Loyal". "We have a lot of pride in our back catalogue, and we refuse to turn into one of the many bands (like the ones we grew up listening to) who end up releasing crap, and we're also not prepared to compromise by instead releasing an album of cover versions or a 'best-of' album," BOLT THROWER explained in a statement.
"Those Once Loyal" entered the German Media Control chart at position No. 76 — the group's highest-charting release in Germany so far. The follow-up to 2001's "Honour, Valour, Pride" was recorded at Andy Faulkner's Sable Rose studios and was the band's first album since the return of original vocalist Karl Willetts as a full-time member.
Dutch heavy rock collective AUTUMN will release its fifth full-length album, "Cold Comfort", on November 7 in Europe via Metal Blade Records. According to a press release, the CD "offers a collection of striking songs blended into a diverse and yet surprisingly compact album, one that AUTUMN considers to be their most personal and meaningful to date. While AUTUMN's roots remain firmly planted in heavy rock/guitar-oriented soil, their branches are stretching out to more progressive musical genres and alternative approaches to the sound of individual songs."
Commented guitarist Jens van der Valk: "In terms of sound, we realized there were still leaps to be taken out of our comfort zone and into unthought-of possibilities. As a first step in the right direction, our main focus was on a more open, transparent sound, one through which the often multi-layered nature of our songs would be optimally channeled."
AUTUMN needed not look far for a man to put at the helm with the right pioneering philosophy for the band to begin taking leaps: Erik-Jan Dodd, AUTUMN's live sound engineer since the 'My New Time' era, envisioned a more vintage approach for 'Cold Comfort'. An experiment the band was all too eager to embrace, explains guitarist Mats van der Valk. "If there's anyone who knows what we're all about and more importantly: what we could potentially be all about, it's E-J."
"Cold Comfort" will be released as a limited first edition digipak CD including two bonus tracks.
The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. The Scarecrow
02. Cold Comfort
03. Black Stars In A Blue Sky
04. Retrospect
05. Alloy
06. End Of Sorrow
07. Naeon
08. Truth Be Told (Exhale)
09. The Venamoured
10. Changes For The Bitter (digi-bonus)
11. The Mute (Inhale) (digi-bonus)
AUTUMN is:
Marjan Welman - Vocals
Jerome Vrielink - Bass
Jan Munnik - Keyboards
Jan Grijpstra - Drums
Mats van der Valk - Guitar, Grunts, Backing Vocals
Jens van der Valk – Guitar, Backing Vocals
Commented guitarist Jens van der Valk: "In terms of sound, we realized there were still leaps to be taken out of our comfort zone and into unthought-of possibilities. As a first step in the right direction, our main focus was on a more open, transparent sound, one through which the often multi-layered nature of our songs would be optimally channeled."
AUTUMN needed not look far for a man to put at the helm with the right pioneering philosophy for the band to begin taking leaps: Erik-Jan Dodd, AUTUMN's live sound engineer since the 'My New Time' era, envisioned a more vintage approach for 'Cold Comfort'. An experiment the band was all too eager to embrace, explains guitarist Mats van der Valk. "If there's anyone who knows what we're all about and more importantly: what we could potentially be all about, it's E-J."
"Cold Comfort" will be released as a limited first edition digipak CD including two bonus tracks.
The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. The Scarecrow
02. Cold Comfort
03. Black Stars In A Blue Sky
04. Retrospect
05. Alloy
06. End Of Sorrow
07. Naeon
08. Truth Be Told (Exhale)
09. The Venamoured
10. Changes For The Bitter (digi-bonus)
11. The Mute (Inhale) (digi-bonus)
AUTUMN is:
Marjan Welman - Vocals
Jerome Vrielink - Bass
Jan Munnik - Keyboards
Jan Grijpstra - Drums
Mats van der Valk - Guitar, Grunts, Backing Vocals
Jens van der Valk – Guitar, Backing Vocals
TARDY BROTHERS, the project featuring John Tardy (vocals) and Donald Tardy (drums) of Florida-based death metal veterans OBITUARY, will make its live debut on Friday, October 21 at the Brass Mug in Tampa, Florida. The brothers state, "Ever since we released [our debut] album, we have been wanting to play some shows! We are really looking forward to finally getting the first show under our belts."
TARDY BROTHERS' debut album, "Bloodline", came out in April 2009. The CD was described in a press release as an opportunity for the Tardy brothers to "expand their musical playcard showcasing not only a new artistic outlet but also extending opportunity for them to take their global fan base on an exciting new journey."
"Bloodline" featured guitar work by Ralph Santolla (OBITUARY, DEATH, DEICIDE), original XECUTIONER (pre-OBITUARY) guitarist Jerry Tidwell and solo work from 19-year-old John Lee and longtime friend Scott Johnson.
Said John Tardy of the project: "This is something Donald and I have talked about and planned for many years and we just never had the time to do it. With the addition of our new studio, it has finally given us the abilitity to get this music recorded. It is not going to affect anything that OBITUARY is doing nor is it supposed to sound like OBITUARY."
TARDY BROTHERS' debut album, "Bloodline", came out in April 2009. The CD was described in a press release as an opportunity for the Tardy brothers to "expand their musical playcard showcasing not only a new artistic outlet but also extending opportunity for them to take their global fan base on an exciting new journey."
"Bloodline" featured guitar work by Ralph Santolla (OBITUARY, DEATH, DEICIDE), original XECUTIONER (pre-OBITUARY) guitarist Jerry Tidwell and solo work from 19-year-old John Lee and longtime friend Scott Johnson.
Said John Tardy of the project: "This is something Donald and I have talked about and planned for many years and we just never had the time to do it. With the addition of our new studio, it has finally given us the abilitity to get this music recorded. It is not going to affect anything that OBITUARY is doing nor is it supposed to sound like OBITUARY."
On the night of September 9, Jonas Bergqvist (a.k.a. B) — the founding member, main composer, and guitarist of the Swedish "narcotic metal" band LIFELOVER — died unexpectedly. The cause of his death is still unclear and has yet to be established.
The remaining members of the group have since issued the following statement:
"On Friday morning, September 9th, B didn't wake up from his sleep. He didn't take his own life nor was he victim of any apparent action. The authorities in charge are still examining his body to find the exact cause of death.
"We, the remaining members of LIFELOVER, have decided to lay the band to rest. This would be the only right thing to do considering B was the main composer of LIFELOVER. Therefore, we won't be performing at our coming planned shows.
"We are very sorry and hope that all of the fans that had been looking forward to seeing LIFELOVER play live will understand.
"The concerts in Belgium and Holland were the last concerts of LIFELOVER.
"We want to thank everybody that was present and helped out, especially Rob 'Svograth' Polon of MONADS and the members of IXXI.
"These last days have been very hard for us and everybody that knew B.
"We want to thank all of our fans for being so respectful, dedicated and understanding and, most of all, for supporting LIFELOVER during all these years."
The remaining members of the group have since issued the following statement:
"On Friday morning, September 9th, B didn't wake up from his sleep. He didn't take his own life nor was he victim of any apparent action. The authorities in charge are still examining his body to find the exact cause of death.
"We, the remaining members of LIFELOVER, have decided to lay the band to rest. This would be the only right thing to do considering B was the main composer of LIFELOVER. Therefore, we won't be performing at our coming planned shows.
"We are very sorry and hope that all of the fans that had been looking forward to seeing LIFELOVER play live will understand.
"The concerts in Belgium and Holland were the last concerts of LIFELOVER.
"We want to thank everybody that was present and helped out, especially Rob 'Svograth' Polon of MONADS and the members of IXXI.
"These last days have been very hard for us and everybody that knew B.
"We want to thank all of our fans for being so respectful, dedicated and understanding and, most of all, for supporting LIFELOVER during all these years."
Swedish death metallers SYN:DROM are currently writing material for their sophomore album for a 2012 release via ViciSolum Productions. According to the band, the forthcoming CD will contain "the most powerful and aggressive material" the group has ever created.
A four-and-a-half-minute video clip containing behind-the-scenes footage from the pre-production sessions for the new album can be seen below.
SYN:DROM's debut album, "With Flesh Unbound", came out in April 201 via ViciSolum Productions. The CD was recorded at Nevo studios in Sundsvall, Sweden and was engineered and mixed by the bandmembers themselves.
The band previously described its musical direction as "high-quality death metal in the vein of HATE ETERNAL, AEON and DECAPITATED."
SYN:DROM is:
Jonny Pettersson (BONEGOD, MOURNING, HUMAN HARVEST) - Vocals
Roger Bergsten (PSYCHO POETRY, ex-HECTORITE) - Guitar
David Karlsson - Lead Guitar
Daniel Mikaelsson (MOURNING) - Drums
Daniel Åsén – Bass
A four-and-a-half-minute video clip containing behind-the-scenes footage from the pre-production sessions for the new album can be seen below.
SYN:DROM's debut album, "With Flesh Unbound", came out in April 201 via ViciSolum Productions. The CD was recorded at Nevo studios in Sundsvall, Sweden and was engineered and mixed by the bandmembers themselves.
The band previously described its musical direction as "high-quality death metal in the vein of HATE ETERNAL, AEON and DECAPITATED."
SYN:DROM is:
Jonny Pettersson (BONEGOD, MOURNING, HUMAN HARVEST) - Vocals
Roger Bergsten (PSYCHO POETRY, ex-HECTORITE) - Guitar
David Karlsson - Lead Guitar
Daniel Mikaelsson (MOURNING) - Drums
Daniel Åsén – Bass
Norwegian black metallers RAGNAROK have ended their collaboration with Regain Records and are currently seeking a new label home. Interested record companies can contact the band via their management at patriciathomas@btinternet.com.
Formed in 1994, RAGNAROK's latest album, "Collectors Of The King", was released in 2010 after a six-year hiatus, during which time RAGNAROK changed its lineup almost entirely, with drummer and founder member Jontho remaining the only original member. The group is rounded out by Hans Fyrste (vocals), DezeptiCunt (bass and backing vocals) and Bolverk (guitar).
RAGNAROK is currently coming to the end of a very successful 14-date tour of Brazil and Mexico.
Formed in 1994, RAGNAROK's latest album, "Collectors Of The King", was released in 2010 after a six-year hiatus, during which time RAGNAROK changed its lineup almost entirely, with drummer and founder member Jontho remaining the only original member. The group is rounded out by Hans Fyrste (vocals), DezeptiCunt (bass and backing vocals) and Bolverk (guitar).
RAGNAROK is currently coming to the end of a very successful 14-date tour of Brazil and Mexico.
Dutch death metallers TOXOCARA will release their third studio album, "AtmosFear", on October 14 via Twilight-Vertrieb.
According to a press release, "TOXOCARA is a five-headed technical death metal machine from The Netherlands. Bombastic, ultra low-tuned industrial influences characterize the new TOXOCARA sound! This new TOXOCARA album emphasizes the quality and growth of TOXOCARA's music. A perfect combination of slow and fast guitars, excellent overclocked click-track drumming liquored in thick sample sounds."
"AtmosFear" track listing:
01. Black Widow
02. Annihilation By The Ankar (Marionettes of War)
03. Confessions of the Black Regiment
04. Moryty Holodom (Holodomor)
05. Bravo Two Zero
06. Flashlight Shadows
07. Towards the Perpetual Labyrinth
08. The Kempeitai Hordes of Hirohito
09. The Red House Report
TOXOCARA's second full-length album, "The Great Rebellious", was released in January 2008 via Twilight-Vertrieb.
According to a press release, "TOXOCARA is a five-headed technical death metal machine from The Netherlands. Bombastic, ultra low-tuned industrial influences characterize the new TOXOCARA sound! This new TOXOCARA album emphasizes the quality and growth of TOXOCARA's music. A perfect combination of slow and fast guitars, excellent overclocked click-track drumming liquored in thick sample sounds."
"AtmosFear" track listing:
01. Black Widow
02. Annihilation By The Ankar (Marionettes of War)
03. Confessions of the Black Regiment
04. Moryty Holodom (Holodomor)
05. Bravo Two Zero
06. Flashlight Shadows
07. Towards the Perpetual Labyrinth
08. The Kempeitai Hordes of Hirohito
09. The Red House Report
TOXOCARA's second full-length album, "The Great Rebellious", was released in January 2008 via Twilight-Vertrieb.
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