According to Billboard.com, the reunited original lineup of BLACK SABBATH was one of the planned headliners for this year's Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival, but was forced to pull out just before yesterday's official lineup announcement due to guitarist Tony Iommi's recent lymphoma diagnosis.
It's unclear which artist was added as a last-minute replacement for Coachella, which will be headlined by RADIOHEAD, the BLACK KEYS and DR. DRE and SNOOP DOGG, and held for the first time over two weekends (April 13-15, April 20-22) in Indio, California.
Iommi has been diagnosed with the early stages of lymphoma, it was revealed on Monday (January 9). Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphocytes, a type of cell that forms part of the immune system. According to a statement issued by his publicist, the 63-year-old metal legend is currently working with his doctors to establish the best treatment plan and remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery.
The news comes as the original SABBATH lineup — Iommi, singer Ozzy Osbourne, bassist Geezer Butler and drummer Bill Ward — are writing and recording their first album together in 33 years. The disc is set for release this fall and SABBATH is scheduled to embark on a world tour, although Iommi's illness could affect those plans.
Iommi told The Pulse Of Radio that ever since re-learning how to play guitar after severing two fingertips as a teenager, he's always been determined to fight his way through anything. "I've always been the same," he said. "I always have to try to get over that barrier, whatever it may be, and do it, you know. And that's continued in what I do with the music. People have said over the years, 'Well, why do you still keep playing and why do you still hold BLACK SABBATH together through the different lineups?' Because I'm determined to do it, I'm determined to carry on. And it's been with everything like that."
SABBATH has been working on its new album in Los Angeles, but now will head back to London to accommodate Iommi's plans for treatment.
Iommi's bandmate in SABBATH and HEAVEN & HELL, legendary heavy metal singer Ronnie James Dio, died of stomach cancer in May 2010 at the age of 67.
It's unclear which artist was added as a last-minute replacement for Coachella, which will be headlined by RADIOHEAD, the BLACK KEYS and DR. DRE and SNOOP DOGG, and held for the first time over two weekends (April 13-15, April 20-22) in Indio, California.
Iommi has been diagnosed with the early stages of lymphoma, it was revealed on Monday (January 9). Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphocytes, a type of cell that forms part of the immune system. According to a statement issued by his publicist, the 63-year-old metal legend is currently working with his doctors to establish the best treatment plan and remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery.
The news comes as the original SABBATH lineup — Iommi, singer Ozzy Osbourne, bassist Geezer Butler and drummer Bill Ward — are writing and recording their first album together in 33 years. The disc is set for release this fall and SABBATH is scheduled to embark on a world tour, although Iommi's illness could affect those plans.
Iommi told The Pulse Of Radio that ever since re-learning how to play guitar after severing two fingertips as a teenager, he's always been determined to fight his way through anything. "I've always been the same," he said. "I always have to try to get over that barrier, whatever it may be, and do it, you know. And that's continued in what I do with the music. People have said over the years, 'Well, why do you still keep playing and why do you still hold BLACK SABBATH together through the different lineups?' Because I'm determined to do it, I'm determined to carry on. And it's been with everything like that."
SABBATH has been working on its new album in Los Angeles, but now will head back to London to accommodate Iommi's plans for treatment.
Iommi's bandmate in SABBATH and HEAVEN & HELL, legendary heavy metal singer Ronnie James Dio, died of stomach cancer in May 2010 at the age of 67.
Sporting a bedraggled beard and fierce axe to stir the envy of Odin and his mighty sons, Zakk Wylde and his Black Label Society have knocked the paisley-mellow orthodoxy of metal virtuoso guitar on its ass; breathing nothing but fire and spittle while shredding up storms of fury throughout his colorful career. Mastering his craft since the age of fourteen, Wylde drops recondite phrases into his genre-spanning career just for kicks as enraptured, raw-throated crowds cheer on. Jetting into Australia for Soundwave, the confidante and doom-driven acolyte of Ozzy Osbourne shoots straight from the hip laying down some real talk for y'all about spirituality, strange times and the Shatner. You'd expect nothing less from the fearless leader of the famed Black Label Order, leading the wounded cult of rock n' roll back into the darkness.
Hey there Zakk, great to be talking with you – how you doing? Where are you at the moment?
Great there buddy. I'm in California at the moment at the Vatican, jammin' away on the guitar. Getting ready for when we all roll down to Australia, brother.
How do you feel about coming back?
I can't wait, man. It's gonna be cool. Lookin' forward to it.
First of all, I just want to clarify for some people – you use some really weird acronyms on your Twitter account – what do they all mean?
Oh, the acronyms? Well, SDMF stands for "Strength, Determination, Merciless Forever" and TBLO is "The Black Label Order."
Oh, good…now it all makes sense. Now make sense of this; tell us about recording with William Shatner.
[laughs] Oh dude, it was amazing. The running joke was how many people can say they recorded with the Prince of Daftness and the greatest Starfleet commander of all time? My buddies were producing [the record] and they asked me, 'Zakk, what if Bill wanted you to do some guitar stuff?' and I just said 'Yeah, of course man. This would be hysterical.' So yeah, without a doubt.
I saw some video of you two together and it looked like the most unlikeliest pairing I'd ever seen.
[laughs] Well, he's beyond super cool. He's just like Ozzy [Osbourne], you know what I mean? They're both living legends. They're the coolest guys on the planet. It was definitely an honour.
You've been playing professionally since you were about nineteen years of age; people refer to you as a 'guitar god' – what's your reaction to that?
Well, [laughs], I asked Ozzy this; "The singing on Sabotage is amazing. Did you eat your Wheaties that day or take some vocal lessons?" [Imitates Ozzy] "No," he says, "Lots of drugs."
[laughs] Well it's definitely cool and really humbling, but I just practice every day and like right now, while I'm talking to you I'm jamming in the Vatican playing classical guitar. I love playin' just as much as I did at fourteen years old. You know what I mean?
You say you still love playing, but what motivates you to get out of your bed each morning and keep doing what you do?
You have to have a reason to get out of bed every day, man. You really do. Like when my Dad retired from General Motors, that was like the worst thing that ever happened to him. He was like lost. Once he got a job up at a gas station and he was back talking with people again, he had a reason to get up.
I mean, if you and me opened up a lemonade stand, we'd have the one lemonade stand so let's open up another one down the road and this n' that, the whole thing is we gotta get more cups, we gotta get more stuff; it's all about keeping our business going.
I mean my kids are sittin' around sayin' "I'm bored!" and I just say you should never be bored. Ever. I got a million things going on every day on the Black Label shit to do list. A million things going on. I mean it's everything. Whether we're doing Black Label beef jerky, Black Label beer, Black Label coffee, new artwork, new merch, I'm involved with everything. And I love it. Aside from us practicing and us doing the band and the music, then we set up the tour and think what we're gonna do with that, yada yada yada, there's just a million things outside of even just the music.
Talking about some of your merchandise, I had some of your Berserker hot sauce and I had to sign a waiver to buy it – and it was good, man.
[laughs] Oh man, I remember that Blair sent me this other bottle to the house and it said: "Warning: do not put on skin." Are you kiddin' me! He goes to me 'No Zakk, that's for real.'
Yeah dude, it totally blew me away. But how involved are you in the creation of the food and sauces; stuff you'd never usually associate with music?
Well, with the internet now, there's no such thing as record sales. The days of Appetite For Destruction are over. No band is ever going to sell that many records again. You have to adapt and do different things. But I gotta be honest with you; if that never even happened, I'd still be doing all this other stuff because I love doing it.
Do you think metal music is a brotherhood? It gets a bit of a bad rap in some places, but do people not understand just how connected the people who are in the scene really are?
Well, it's just like jazz or anything else. It's always been the underdog of all the musical fields. For those of us that love it, yeah; without a doubt.
You love your choppers and bikes-
Well, actually, the last time I wiped out on a dirt bike down at the compound and they won't insure me for it any more. But I got a truck and I've been keeping it in the tour bus.
Fair enough. With biker culture gaining a bit more prominence due to the popularity of shows like Sons of Anarchy, and with Black Label featuring a lot of biker imagery, how has that impacted the band?
Well we've been doing this for about thirteen years now, it doesn't matter to me. When people ask me what the Black Label Society is I just reply it's an Illuminati bowling team.
When people ask me or they see me in an elevator, they ask "What's Black Label Society? A motorcycle gang?" and I'm like "Nah, it's a bowling club. An Illuminati bowling club. We suck so bad, we just like to keep it unknown so nobody knows who we are. No one's been able to bowl an 80 yet." [laughs] We just don't want no one to know who we are.
The secret's out now! Anyway; you've done a bit of acting; would you ever look to expand on that?
Sure; I mean every experience I've had doing it has always been a good time. Whether it's the actors or the directors or producers, everybody's been super cool. I've never had a bad experience. I've never had a bad experience making records. I've always had a great time with everybody I've worked with. If you were directing something and you said "Zakk, I need you to play this drug dealer" or whatever I'd be like yeah. "I want you to act really surprised that the drugs are gone" I'd be like, "Yeah, cool" and roll tape, memorize my lines, practice it a couple times and go action. You know what I mean?
When someone asks you to do that – be it act or lay down a solo for them, how does it all happen? Do you write the solo yourself, usually?
Well I'm a musician so I improvise, it's part of what I do. Someone just asks "Hey Zakk, can you put a solo on this thing?" – "Yeah, no problem." Then I just knock one out.
In your music there's a lot of aggression but there's a lot of expression. Do you feel, as a man, that rock music is an outlet for expressing those feelings when other ways might be looked down upon?
I think it can be done with any type of music, whether it's jazz or dance music, or classical or heavy metal. Without a doubt. Whether it's painting or any of those things, it's all expression.
You trained under rock guitarist Leroy Wright and we've heard your acoustic records and things like that, but what brings you back to heavy metal time and again?
Well, with Black Label we do everything. You know. It's kind of like Eddie Van Halen when they asked him when he was going to do a solo record. He goes "I am!" [laughs] I do solo records.
What I mean is, in your private time what do you listen to, what do you play?
Well, I've been listening to [Procol Harum guitarist] Robin Trower's solo record a lot lately…classic rock. When I listen to the radio, I'm just listening to classic rock, you know what I mean? Bad Company was on just a little while ago. That's what I usually listen to.
You said before the days of selling tens of millions of records are over – are you a record collector yourself?
You mean vinyl? Yeah, of course. I mean the majority of records I get you aren't going to pick up at Best Buy, you know what I mean? Like Robin Trower, I had to go to his website or Amazon or iTunes and buy the record there. Thank God, because half the guys I love you wouldn't be able to find at all.
Do you still go crate-hunting on tour, so to speak? Like in Japan for instance.
Japan is great, yeah. You can find all kinds of out-of-print stuff and whatever. Without a doubt, man.
I remember – and don't crucify me for this – but this bootleg video of you in Japan in your early days before Black Label and you had quite a following; do you still get the same reaction from international crowds?
Yeah, it's awesome, man. Especially now that Black Label's worldwide. Without a doubt.
The Black Label Order; even when you aren't touring, do they still gather together?
Without a doubt. Black Label's one gigantic family. It's worldwide. To them, we're just the house band, you know what I mean?
Have you ever played at a fan's house by request, for example?
No, we haven't done any bar mitzvahs – well, yet. [laughs]
Events such as being reunited with your prized guitar "The Grail" and when that happened out of the blue; does it remind you how crazy this business can be, for you?
Oh, without a doubt. I thank the good Lord every day. I thank him when I wake up and when I go to bed. I thank him in the middle of the day. I'm definitely grateful for everything I have. Hands down.
I don't need a tragedy to happen to realize how blessed I am. I don't need that. I don't need to beat up an 80 year old grandmother and do six years in jail to realize that beating up elderly people and stealing their money is really not a good thing.
On the road, is maintaining your spiritual side important to you?
Yeah, well, I'm a soldier of Christ, man. Without a doubt.
When you say "Soldier of Christ," what do you mean by that?
The bottom line is that he's with me all the time.
Let's bring it down to Earth a bit – what can fans expect when you come back to Australia?
Aside from the music and good times and all that other cool stuff, I've been taking a lot of the Kim Kardashian quick trim, I've been using thinning cream and I've been shaving my legs so I can whip out the new Black Label lingerie line when we get down there. That's what we're looking forward to.
[laughs] Seriously?
It's not easy being in this band, trust me! And we expect perfection.
Hey, I've got a tagline for your lingerie line; "Unwrap your own Black Label today."
[laughs] Oh, the brutality!
Thanks for talking to us, Zakk. All the best for the tour.
My pleasure, brother. Tell all the Australian fans about the lingerie line and we'll see you in a little bit.
Zakk Wylde and his Black Label Society will be appearing nationally at the Soundwave Festival this February/March.
"American Idol" judges Steven Tyler (AEROSMITH) and Randy Jackson, along with host Ryan Seacrest, will guest on "The Tonight Show With Jay Leno" on Friday, January 20.
"The Tonight Show" airs on NBC TV at 11:35 p.m. EST. Check local listings for details.
"American Idol" returns for its 11th season with a two-night premiere event Wednesday, January 18 (8:00-10:00 p.m. ET/PT) and Thursday, January 19 (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET/PT) on Fox. Featuring host Ryan Seacrest and returning judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler, television's No. 1 series continues with a special, extended primetime broadcast Sunday, January 22 (10:00-11:00 p.m. ET/7:00-8:00 p.m. PT) following the NFC Championship Game on Fox.
Jackson, Lopez and Tyler traveled to Savannah, Aspen, Galveston, Pittsburgh, Portland, San Diego and St. Louis in search of contestants with the raw talent and potential to become the next "American Idol."
"The Tonight Show" airs on NBC TV at 11:35 p.m. EST. Check local listings for details.
"American Idol" returns for its 11th season with a two-night premiere event Wednesday, January 18 (8:00-10:00 p.m. ET/PT) and Thursday, January 19 (8:00-9:00 p.m. ET/PT) on Fox. Featuring host Ryan Seacrest and returning judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler, television's No. 1 series continues with a special, extended primetime broadcast Sunday, January 22 (10:00-11:00 p.m. ET/7:00-8:00 p.m. PT) following the NFC Championship Game on Fox.
Jackson, Lopez and Tyler traveled to Savannah, Aspen, Galveston, Pittsburgh, Portland, San Diego and St. Louis in search of contestants with the raw talent and potential to become the next "American Idol."
According to Noise11, a copy of "Can I Sit Next To You Girl", the debut single from legendary rockers AC/DC, sold on eBay for $1,225.
"Can I Sit Next To You Girl" was only ever released in Australia and features lead vocals from AC/DC's original singer, Dave Evans. The B-side was another original song, "Rockin' In The Parlour".
The two tracks were the only AC/DC recordings featuring Evans, who was subsequently replaced by Bon Scott.
The single debuted on May 8, 1975 and reached no. 19 on the Australian chart.
AC/DC re-recorded "Can I Sit Next To You Girl" for its second album, "TNT".
"Can I Sit Next To You Girl" was only ever released in Australia and features lead vocals from AC/DC's original singer, Dave Evans. The B-side was another original song, "Rockin' In The Parlour".
The two tracks were the only AC/DC recordings featuring Evans, who was subsequently replaced by Bon Scott.
The single debuted on May 8, 1975 and reached no. 19 on the Australian chart.
AC/DC re-recorded "Can I Sit Next To You Girl" for its second album, "TNT".
According to the official release schedule of Universal Music in Denmark, the deluxe 25th-anniversary edition of KISS' classic fourth album, "Destroyer", will be released in Europe on February 27 (one day later in North America). The two-disc set will feature remixes of the original LP by producer Bob Ezrin, outtakes from the 1976 album sessions as well as the LP's original cover art.
Ken Kelly's original version of the album cover for "Destroyer" was rejected by the record company because they felt the scene was too violent-looking. Also, the original version had the members of KISS wearing the "Alive" costumes.
Released in March 1976, "Destroyer" was the second consecutive KISS album to reach the Top 20 in the U.S. The LP was certified gold by the RIAA on April 22, 1976. It was certified platinum on November 11, 1976, the first KISS album to achieve that distinction.
Ken Kelly's original version of the album cover for "Destroyer" was rejected by the record company because they felt the scene was too violent-looking. Also, the original version had the members of KISS wearing the "Alive" costumes.
Released in March 1976, "Destroyer" was the second consecutive KISS album to reach the Top 20 in the U.S. The LP was certified gold by the RIAA on April 22, 1976. It was certified platinum on November 11, 1976, the first KISS album to achieve that distinction.
A number of hard rock and heavy metal musicians have taken to Twitter to offer best wishes to legendary BLACK SABBATH guitarist Tony Iommi, who announced earlier today that he has been diagnosed with the early stages of lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphocytes, a type of cell that forms part of the immune system.
Iommi, 63, is currently working with his doctors to establish the best treatment plan and remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery.
This comes as BLACK SABBATH — Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass) and Bill Ward (drums) — are writing and recording their first album in 33 years in Los Angeles (still set for release this fall) with producer Rick Rubin. They will now go to the U.K. to continue to work with Tony.
ANTHRAX (band): "This really does suck. GET WELL SOON TONY!"
Slash (VELVET REVOLVER, GUNS N' ROSES): "Best wishes for a full recovery to Tony Iommi."
Robb Rivera (NONPOINT): "Just when i was happy to announce that I had finished his book last night, today I read this sad story about metal."
David Draiman (DISTURBED): "Everyone please send their prayers/good vibes/best wishes to Tony Iommi for a speedy recovery; he has been diagnosed [with] lymphoma."
Sebastian Bach (SKID ROW): "All hail the mighty Tony Iommi. & FUCK YOU, Cancer."
Tommy Clufetos (OZZY OSBOURNE, ROB ZOMBIE, ALICE COOPER): "All my positive vibes to Tony Iommi of [BLACK SABBATH] for a healthy speedy recovery... A true rock legend!!"
Randy Blythe (LAMB OF GOD): "I absolutely insist that every single follower of mine, religious or not, send a prayer up for Tony Iommi. He has been diagnosed with lyphoma. It's in its early stages — SABBATH is writing a new record, and they are continuing to. Iommi is the reason heavy metal exists. Pray for him. You pray to Crom, Odin, yourself — don't care who. Just send up some positive vibes for Tony Iommi. This is terrible news for metal. I've toured with Iommi a coupla times. He is a gentleman and a living legend. Hopefully since it's in early stages they can beat it pretty easily. But Iommi's not a young man, so think good thoughts! It is no secret that I have donated both my time, energy, facial hair, and a fair amount of my money to cancer research. I've walked the walk (literally) as well as talked the talk. However, there's nothing wrong with positive vibes."
Zakk Wylde (BLACK LABEL SOCIETY, OZZY OSBOURNE): "Big BL get well wishes out to Lord Iommi!!!"
Glenn Hughes (DEEP PURPLE, BLACK SABBATH, BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION): "Prayers please for my brother Tony Iommi... We all pray for a full, speedy recover from cancer.... Much love…"
Angela Gossow (ARCH ENEMY): "Very, very sad to hear about Tony Iommi's cancer diagnosis. FIGHT! You never know what the future holds for you. Live and love every day!"
EXHORDER: "Get well soon Tony Iommi. Sad news."
Frank Bello (ANTHRAX): "Get well soon Tony!!"
Richie Faulkner (JUDAS PRIEST): "My thoughts go out to Tony Iommi and I wish him a fast and full recovery."
Gus G. (OZZY OSBOURNE, FIREWIND): "I'm in shock to hear the news about Tony Iommi. Get well soon 'Iron Man'!! Your biggest fan."
Michael Amott (ARCH ENEMY, CARCASS): "Here's hoping for a solid and speedy recovery for my guitar hero Tony Iommi!"
Niji Entertainment Group (the record label Wendy Dio and her late husband Ronnie James Dio formed before his untimely passing): "Our thoughts, love and prayers are with Tony Iommi and his family! Please say a prayer!"
Iommi, 63, is currently working with his doctors to establish the best treatment plan and remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery.
This comes as BLACK SABBATH — Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass) and Bill Ward (drums) — are writing and recording their first album in 33 years in Los Angeles (still set for release this fall) with producer Rick Rubin. They will now go to the U.K. to continue to work with Tony.
ANTHRAX (band): "This really does suck. GET WELL SOON TONY!"
Slash (VELVET REVOLVER, GUNS N' ROSES): "Best wishes for a full recovery to Tony Iommi."
Robb Rivera (NONPOINT): "Just when i was happy to announce that I had finished his book last night, today I read this sad story about metal."
David Draiman (DISTURBED): "Everyone please send their prayers/good vibes/best wishes to Tony Iommi for a speedy recovery; he has been diagnosed [with] lymphoma."
Sebastian Bach (SKID ROW): "All hail the mighty Tony Iommi. & FUCK YOU, Cancer."
Tommy Clufetos (OZZY OSBOURNE, ROB ZOMBIE, ALICE COOPER): "All my positive vibes to Tony Iommi of [BLACK SABBATH] for a healthy speedy recovery... A true rock legend!!"
Randy Blythe (LAMB OF GOD): "I absolutely insist that every single follower of mine, religious or not, send a prayer up for Tony Iommi. He has been diagnosed with lyphoma. It's in its early stages — SABBATH is writing a new record, and they are continuing to. Iommi is the reason heavy metal exists. Pray for him. You pray to Crom, Odin, yourself — don't care who. Just send up some positive vibes for Tony Iommi. This is terrible news for metal. I've toured with Iommi a coupla times. He is a gentleman and a living legend. Hopefully since it's in early stages they can beat it pretty easily. But Iommi's not a young man, so think good thoughts! It is no secret that I have donated both my time, energy, facial hair, and a fair amount of my money to cancer research. I've walked the walk (literally) as well as talked the talk. However, there's nothing wrong with positive vibes."
Zakk Wylde (BLACK LABEL SOCIETY, OZZY OSBOURNE): "Big BL get well wishes out to Lord Iommi!!!"
Glenn Hughes (DEEP PURPLE, BLACK SABBATH, BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION): "Prayers please for my brother Tony Iommi... We all pray for a full, speedy recover from cancer.... Much love…"
Angela Gossow (ARCH ENEMY): "Very, very sad to hear about Tony Iommi's cancer diagnosis. FIGHT! You never know what the future holds for you. Live and love every day!"
EXHORDER: "Get well soon Tony Iommi. Sad news."
Frank Bello (ANTHRAX): "Get well soon Tony!!"
Richie Faulkner (JUDAS PRIEST): "My thoughts go out to Tony Iommi and I wish him a fast and full recovery."
Gus G. (OZZY OSBOURNE, FIREWIND): "I'm in shock to hear the news about Tony Iommi. Get well soon 'Iron Man'!! Your biggest fan."
Michael Amott (ARCH ENEMY, CARCASS): "Here's hoping for a solid and speedy recovery for my guitar hero Tony Iommi!"
Niji Entertainment Group (the record label Wendy Dio and her late husband Ronnie James Dio formed before his untimely passing): "Our thoughts, love and prayers are with Tony Iommi and his family! Please say a prayer!"
Original METALLICA bassist Ron McGovney will appear at the Mad Monster Party — a retro monster celebration showcasing classic and contemporary creatures of the night (and day) — on March 23-25, 2012 at the Blake Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The Mad Monster Party is a horror convention with a difference. While other national shows install a generic event in a city, Mad Monster is building its show from the inside out. With the support of local Charlotte organizations (like "Visit Charlotte" tourism board) and businesses (Kevin Blanchfield's Haunted Mill, Morris Costume, etc.), Mad Monster Party is putting down roots and committing to a partnership with the Charlotte community to provide a unique convention that is fresh, theatrical, and innovative and will offer visiting fans from across the nation a real tradition.
Daily and weekend tickets are available as well as R.I.P. (Really Intense Partyer) passes. R.I.P. passes include early admission all three days, express/front-of-line and all access to events, including reserved premium seating, a walk through the Haunted Mill with celebrities, access to the exclusive R.I.P./Celebrity Lounge, a mystery swag bag and more.
The Mad Monster Party is a horror convention with a difference. While other national shows install a generic event in a city, Mad Monster is building its show from the inside out. With the support of local Charlotte organizations (like "Visit Charlotte" tourism board) and businesses (Kevin Blanchfield's Haunted Mill, Morris Costume, etc.), Mad Monster Party is putting down roots and committing to a partnership with the Charlotte community to provide a unique convention that is fresh, theatrical, and innovative and will offer visiting fans from across the nation a real tradition.
Daily and weekend tickets are available as well as R.I.P. (Really Intense Partyer) passes. R.I.P. passes include early admission all three days, express/front-of-line and all access to events, including reserved premium seating, a walk through the Haunted Mill with celebrities, access to the exclusive R.I.P./Celebrity Lounge, a mystery swag bag and more.
McGovney in 2003 made an appearance on the AllMetallica.com message board, MetBoard.com, and answered a couple of questions from fans regarding his time with METALLICA and his more recent activities.
When asked if it was true that he inspired Cliff Burton for his bass solo "Anesthesia", McGovney said, "I did not write 'Anesthesia'. That was all Cliff." As to whether he still plays bass, Ron said, "I still have my basses, but I really don't play too much anymore. I pulled out IRON MAIDEN 'Killers' album the other day to see if I remember any songs on bass. I was surprised that I remembered most of the album. The last band I played in was PHANTASM in 1986/87."
When asked if it was true that he inspired Cliff Burton for his bass solo "Anesthesia", McGovney said, "I did not write 'Anesthesia'. That was all Cliff." As to whether he still plays bass, Ron said, "I still have my basses, but I really don't play too much anymore. I pulled out IRON MAIDEN 'Killers' album the other day to see if I remember any songs on bass. I was surprised that I remembered most of the album. The last band I played in was PHANTASM in 1986/87."
Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider hasn't had anything resembling a hit song since 1984, but through incredible charisma and sheer force of will he's managed to stay in the spotlight all these years later. This February his fame will most likely reach a new level when the fifth season of Celebrity Apprentice premieres. Snider is a contestant on the show, alongside Clay Aiken, Adam Carolla, Lou Ferrigno, Arsenio Hall, Penn Jillette, George Takei and Paul Teutul, Sr. (And that's just the men's team.) We sat down with Dee in New York last week to chat about the show, his surprisingly long career and the upcoming Rock of Ages movie.
You've been on lots of reality shows. What was different about the Celebrity Apprentice?
It's different than any other one. It's really all about the win. There is no social element to it. I mean, you're certainly with people and you have camaraderie and relationships going on, but it's purely fueled by the work and it's all about taking you out of your comfort zone. Some of the reality shows I've done have been about filming you in your comfort zone – this is about keeping you away.
It's different than any other one. It's really all about the win. There is no social element to it. I mean, you're certainly with people and you have camaraderie and relationships going on, but it's purely fueled by the work and it's all about taking you out of your comfort zone. Some of the reality shows I've done have been about filming you in your comfort zone – this is about keeping you away.
I was looking at the various players on the men's team. You've got a lot of very smart, capable people.
Like Paul Teutul, Sr. [from American Chopper]. He's a super successful businessman. I don't know what he's doing here. I don't think he's an apprentice. A lot of these guys aren't apprentices. They're smart guys, successful guys. Business guys. They're iconic. The men's team, just recognition-wise, we go places. The girls can't compete with that. It has to be like, "Holy shit, it's Dee Snider. It's Lou Ferrigno. It's Paul Teutul, Sr. It's Arsenio Hall!"
Like Paul Teutul, Sr. [from American Chopper]. He's a super successful businessman. I don't know what he's doing here. I don't think he's an apprentice. A lot of these guys aren't apprentices. They're smart guys, successful guys. Business guys. They're iconic. The men's team, just recognition-wise, we go places. The girls can't compete with that. It has to be like, "Holy shit, it's Dee Snider. It's Lou Ferrigno. It's Paul Teutul, Sr. It's Arsenio Hall!"
How did you guys work together? Did the team gel?
Absolutely. Now that the show has been on for a number of years, people are coming in knowledgable about it, and with a game plan. I think that a lot of men have noticed – and women have noticed too – that unfortunately women have an inability to function well together. That's not a misogynistic statement. Some powerful woman once said, "If women could get along, they would take over the world." She wasn't kidding. They inherently have a problem working together in groups. Men have not tried to win by taking down somebody else and making themselves look better, but just by doing a better job.
Absolutely. Now that the show has been on for a number of years, people are coming in knowledgable about it, and with a game plan. I think that a lot of men have noticed – and women have noticed too – that unfortunately women have an inability to function well together. That's not a misogynistic statement. Some powerful woman once said, "If women could get along, they would take over the world." She wasn't kidding. They inherently have a problem working together in groups. Men have not tried to win by taking down somebody else and making themselves look better, but just by doing a better job.
If you look at a lot of rock stars from your era with a similar level of success as yourself, very few of them have managed to stay in the spotlight quite like you have.
This show is going to take it to another level. Now that I've patted myself on the back, I will balance it out by saying that I wish it was by design. But it was 90 percent desperation. It's waking up in '92 or '93 flat on my back broke and going, "What the fuck now?" I was just saying, "Reinvent, reinvent, reinvent . . ."
This show is going to take it to another level. Now that I've patted myself on the back, I will balance it out by saying that I wish it was by design. But it was 90 percent desperation. It's waking up in '92 or '93 flat on my back broke and going, "What the fuck now?" I was just saying, "Reinvent, reinvent, reinvent . . ."
A lot of people in that position just start playing their hits in clubs over and over.
That runs you into the ground, instead of building you up. Twisted Sister plays 20, 25 shows a year. But if the band had their druthers, they'd be out playing all the time. What that does is lessen your value. We go out and headline the biggest festivals, and everywhere we go we're high on the bill. Some band sold more records than us in the Eighties, but they've been out 20 times recently and nobody's seen us in five years or so.
That runs you into the ground, instead of building you up. Twisted Sister plays 20, 25 shows a year. But if the band had their druthers, they'd be out playing all the time. What that does is lessen your value. We go out and headline the biggest festivals, and everywhere we go we're high on the bill. Some band sold more records than us in the Eighties, but they've been out 20 times recently and nobody's seen us in five years or so.
Did the show change your perception of Donald Trump as a person?
Totally. This may be an image killer for him, but every person in the cast will tell you that he is gracious, welcoming, considerate and self-deprecating. He jokes about his hair and his assets when the camera is off. He has his persona, but it definitely changed my opinion of him.
Totally. This may be an image killer for him, but every person in the cast will tell you that he is gracious, welcoming, considerate and self-deprecating. He jokes about his hair and his assets when the camera is off. He has his persona, but it definitely changed my opinion of him.
What about when he says insane stuff like "the Obama birth certificate is fake"?
I don't agree with him on that. I said I have a different opinion of him, but I don't agree with his politics.
I don't agree with him on that. I said I have a different opinion of him, but I don't agree with his politics.
Do you think he's believes crazy stuff like that, or he just wants attention?
In his own way, he is the P.T. Barnum of his day. It is no coincidence that he is talking about possibly running for president at the time that we're announcing the launch of the Celebrity Apprentice. It's not a coincidence. Saying sensational things like "President Obama sucks," knowing at the same time that he wants people to lock up their TiVos.
In his own way, he is the P.T. Barnum of his day. It is no coincidence that he is talking about possibly running for president at the time that we're announcing the launch of the Celebrity Apprentice. It's not a coincidence. Saying sensational things like "President Obama sucks," knowing at the same time that he wants people to lock up their TiVos.
What do you think about Tom Cruise being in the Rock of Ages movie?
I was on Broadway in Rock of Ages when they announced they were going to make a movie. My manager was all excited. He's like, "You're going to be in a movie!" I'm like, "Not a fucking chance!" He goes, "What do you mean?" I said, "Did you see Mamma Mia? Have you seen any Broadway musical turned into a movie?" They get John Travolta to play a woman. They get all these top talents to take a quarter of their quote for the opportunity to sing. Then, sure enough, we get Tom Cruise, and then Will Ferrell was talking about my role. [Alec Baldwin ultimately got it.] They have to get the biggest names they can. But I hope that Tom Cruise is better than Pierce Brosnan. Did you see Mamma Mia? Pierce Brosnan was terrible!
I was on Broadway in Rock of Ages when they announced they were going to make a movie. My manager was all excited. He's like, "You're going to be in a movie!" I'm like, "Not a fucking chance!" He goes, "What do you mean?" I said, "Did you see Mamma Mia? Have you seen any Broadway musical turned into a movie?" They get John Travolta to play a woman. They get all these top talents to take a quarter of their quote for the opportunity to sing. Then, sure enough, we get Tom Cruise, and then Will Ferrell was talking about my role. [Alec Baldwin ultimately got it.] They have to get the biggest names they can. But I hope that Tom Cruise is better than Pierce Brosnan. Did you see Mamma Mia? Pierce Brosnan was terrible!
Do you think that Tom Cruise can do the part?
Tom's a great actor and I've seen pictures . . . but he looked a little too Nineties for me. He looked a little bit like the singer in Creed rather than the singer in Poison, but I hear he does a great job. Also, he insisted on being the star of the movie. That role on Broadway is a supporting role. They had to rewrite the script for him. Now it's just "based off the musical."
Tom's a great actor and I've seen pictures . . . but he looked a little too Nineties for me. He looked a little bit like the singer in Creed rather than the singer in Poison, but I hear he does a great job. Also, he insisted on being the star of the movie. That role on Broadway is a supporting role. They had to rewrite the script for him. Now it's just "based off the musical."
But can he sing?
They can do amazing things. Nowadays people sell millions of records that can't sing.
They can do amazing things. Nowadays people sell millions of records that can't sing.
GREAT WHITE's Michael Lardie (guitar, keyboards) proposed to girlfriend Pamela Bennetts on Christmas.
"Pam and I just want to reach out to the fans and thank them for a phenomenal 2011," Lardie said. "We will get to planning our big day, but I know she will not want to miss a GREAT WHITE concert, so we will plan around our tour schedule."
Born in Alaska and raised in a military family, Lardie resides in Sacramento, California. His rock resume includes touring with NIGHT RANGER, as well as producing/engineering albums for GREAT WHITE and NIGHT RANGER. Bennetts currently lives in Detroit, Michigan.
GREAT WHITE emerged on the hard rock scene in 1978 and is best known for the 1989 smash "Once Bitten, Twice Shy".
The band's current touring lineup features original members Mark Kendall (guitar), Michael Lardie (guitar, keyboards) and Audie Desbrow (drums) alongside bassist Scott Snyder and lead vocalist Terry Ilous.
GREAT WHITE's estranged singer Jack Russell in December decided to continue as the band's lead vocalist without the current touring members. He has brought in former members of GREAT WHITE, as well as other musicians he has worked with previously, and in order to avoid any confusion, will be touring and performing under the name JACK RUSSELL'S GREAT WHITE.
"Pam and I just want to reach out to the fans and thank them for a phenomenal 2011," Lardie said. "We will get to planning our big day, but I know she will not want to miss a GREAT WHITE concert, so we will plan around our tour schedule."
Born in Alaska and raised in a military family, Lardie resides in Sacramento, California. His rock resume includes touring with NIGHT RANGER, as well as producing/engineering albums for GREAT WHITE and NIGHT RANGER. Bennetts currently lives in Detroit, Michigan.
GREAT WHITE emerged on the hard rock scene in 1978 and is best known for the 1989 smash "Once Bitten, Twice Shy".
The band's current touring lineup features original members Mark Kendall (guitar), Michael Lardie (guitar, keyboards) and Audie Desbrow (drums) alongside bassist Scott Snyder and lead vocalist Terry Ilous.
GREAT WHITE's estranged singer Jack Russell in December decided to continue as the band's lead vocalist without the current touring members. He has brought in former members of GREAT WHITE, as well as other musicians he has worked with previously, and in order to avoid any confusion, will be touring and performing under the name JACK RUSSELL'S GREAT WHITE.
The story of Primal Fear is one of friendship, of all things. The combo of singer Ralf Scheepers and bassist Mat Sinner goes back to the mid-90's, where a disillusioned Scheepers was ready to throw in the towel after missing the cut to replace Rob Halford in Judas Priest. Already having been ousted from Gamma Ray to make way for Kai Hansen's return to the mic, Scheepers was contemplating a different career altogether until Sinner convinced the now bald-plated frontman to keep going, resulting in the formation of Primal Fear in 1998. Since then, the pair has weathered the storm of countless lineup changes, power metal backlash, an aborted North American tour in 2003, and the "Junior Judas Priest" tag that has followed them throughout their career. Clearly, this makes the title of their new album Unbreakable all the more fitting.
One knows what they're always going to get with Primal Fear, which in this age of diluted and cheesy power metal, is a good thing. As workmanlike as the band has become, there's no substitute for killer songs, something Unbreakable has in spades, so with that in mind, we were able to catch up with the affable Scheepers via telephone to discuss the band's work ethic, the new album, his past with Priest, and what lies ahead for a band lovingly dubbed as "The German Metal Commando." Take it away, Ralf…
Blistering.com: You guys are always so productive and it's not like churning out subpar albums. Where does the work ethic and drive come from for Primal Fear?
Ralf Scheepers: Actually, we're a good team. We have four writers: Mat, Magnus [Karlsson], Alex [Beyrodt], and me for this album and everybody has great ideas and we have a certain kind of "set" when composing a new album. We first sit together and talk about what we want to do and with this album, we wanted to get back to what we were doing on the first album, the Primal Fear self-titled album and Jaws of Death, and some energy parts from Nuclear Fire as well. So this was in our heads when we started to compose the album. We wanted to get back a little bit.
Blistering.com: That's what I was thinking too upon my first couple of listens. Because you have established your sound and have had it for so long, does that make it easier to come up with material?
Scheepers: It definitely does. It comes absolutely natural; you don't have to be pretending something, you just go ahead and do what you love to do and that's what's happening. If Mat or Magnus come up with a song and I put some lyrics to it, it's like they already knew what I was going to do with it. Over the years we've grown together as a great writing team, and I think it shows.
Blistering.com: You and Mat have been with the band since the beginning, so has your dynamic grown even stronger over the years?
Scheepers: Being friends over the years and spending time together, plus having trust...that's the most important thing. We've been through the thick and thin over the years and the bad things with the business and internal stuff, we've grown together even more. We have a responsibility...to ourselves, to the music we're doing, and also the fanbase we have, and that's what we still keep in mind, and keeps us going. That's the reason why we called the album Unbreakable.
Blistering.com: That led into my next question - I think the album title is very fitting. For you, what does it encompass for Primal Fear?
Scheepers: It's absolutely natural that sometimes, five people don't stick together; you can't say it's forever. But sometimes it's perfect, like when Mat and me are doing are thing. Like I said, it's still great. If somebody in the past was unhappy, they could easily say the reason why he's unhappy, but if that doesn't happen, what can we do? We don't want to force people to stay with us [laughs].
Blistering.com: The guitar tandem of Alex and Magnus seems to be firing on all cylinders, and I'm really impressed with some of the things they do on the album.
Scheepers: We always found out when we play live. Alex has been helping out the band since 1999, almost since the beginning with certain reasons like baby breaks, business breaks, and so forth, and he always jumped in and proved that not only does he love the band, he loves the guys. Last year, we were touring with him and Magnus on the road in South America and we had a great time. Alex is always somehow a guy that's always positive and the two of them got great ways to play together. It absolutely fits and the chemistry is there and that's just amazing. It was the indicator that the album is going to be great because the guitar team worked so great.
Blistering.com: I don't think it's a stretch to say that this one of your more guitar-oriented albums you've done in recent memory.
Scheepers: That was one our goals to have that, because Primal Fear in the end, is a guitar band. We experimented in the past with Seven Seals and a little bit on New Religion, and the last album 16:6 (Before the Devil Knows You're Dead) had some experiments. We are the heavy metal guys; the guitars, drum pounding, vocal screaming band in the end.
Blistering.com: Your voice has held up remarkably well. If you put the new one up against Jaws of Death, you sound pretty much the same. Any secrets?
Scheepers: I'm trying to be healthy, it's not always easy [laughs]. With trying to sleep, but always trying to enjoy my life [laughs]. I think that's a major key for any singer. Since I'm working in my home studio, I'm very self-critical, I'm always repeating until I nailed it. I remember times when we worked together in the studio, they always said it's "good, it's good," and I would go, "I don't think so." But they'd be "Keep it!" And being upstairs in my home studio, I don't keep it; I just go for it until it's perfect.
One knows what they're always going to get with Primal Fear, which in this age of diluted and cheesy power metal, is a good thing. As workmanlike as the band has become, there's no substitute for killer songs, something Unbreakable has in spades, so with that in mind, we were able to catch up with the affable Scheepers via telephone to discuss the band's work ethic, the new album, his past with Priest, and what lies ahead for a band lovingly dubbed as "The German Metal Commando." Take it away, Ralf…
Blistering.com: You guys are always so productive and it's not like churning out subpar albums. Where does the work ethic and drive come from for Primal Fear?
Ralf Scheepers: Actually, we're a good team. We have four writers: Mat, Magnus [Karlsson], Alex [Beyrodt], and me for this album and everybody has great ideas and we have a certain kind of "set" when composing a new album. We first sit together and talk about what we want to do and with this album, we wanted to get back to what we were doing on the first album, the Primal Fear self-titled album and Jaws of Death, and some energy parts from Nuclear Fire as well. So this was in our heads when we started to compose the album. We wanted to get back a little bit.
Blistering.com: That's what I was thinking too upon my first couple of listens. Because you have established your sound and have had it for so long, does that make it easier to come up with material?
Scheepers: It definitely does. It comes absolutely natural; you don't have to be pretending something, you just go ahead and do what you love to do and that's what's happening. If Mat or Magnus come up with a song and I put some lyrics to it, it's like they already knew what I was going to do with it. Over the years we've grown together as a great writing team, and I think it shows.
Blistering.com: You and Mat have been with the band since the beginning, so has your dynamic grown even stronger over the years?
Scheepers: Being friends over the years and spending time together, plus having trust...that's the most important thing. We've been through the thick and thin over the years and the bad things with the business and internal stuff, we've grown together even more. We have a responsibility...to ourselves, to the music we're doing, and also the fanbase we have, and that's what we still keep in mind, and keeps us going. That's the reason why we called the album Unbreakable.
Blistering.com: That led into my next question - I think the album title is very fitting. For you, what does it encompass for Primal Fear?
Scheepers: It's absolutely natural that sometimes, five people don't stick together; you can't say it's forever. But sometimes it's perfect, like when Mat and me are doing are thing. Like I said, it's still great. If somebody in the past was unhappy, they could easily say the reason why he's unhappy, but if that doesn't happen, what can we do? We don't want to force people to stay with us [laughs].
Blistering.com: The guitar tandem of Alex and Magnus seems to be firing on all cylinders, and I'm really impressed with some of the things they do on the album.
Scheepers: We always found out when we play live. Alex has been helping out the band since 1999, almost since the beginning with certain reasons like baby breaks, business breaks, and so forth, and he always jumped in and proved that not only does he love the band, he loves the guys. Last year, we were touring with him and Magnus on the road in South America and we had a great time. Alex is always somehow a guy that's always positive and the two of them got great ways to play together. It absolutely fits and the chemistry is there and that's just amazing. It was the indicator that the album is going to be great because the guitar team worked so great.
Blistering.com: I don't think it's a stretch to say that this one of your more guitar-oriented albums you've done in recent memory.
Scheepers: That was one our goals to have that, because Primal Fear in the end, is a guitar band. We experimented in the past with Seven Seals and a little bit on New Religion, and the last album 16:6 (Before the Devil Knows You're Dead) had some experiments. We are the heavy metal guys; the guitars, drum pounding, vocal screaming band in the end.
Blistering.com: Your voice has held up remarkably well. If you put the new one up against Jaws of Death, you sound pretty much the same. Any secrets?
Scheepers: I'm trying to be healthy, it's not always easy [laughs]. With trying to sleep, but always trying to enjoy my life [laughs]. I think that's a major key for any singer. Since I'm working in my home studio, I'm very self-critical, I'm always repeating until I nailed it. I remember times when we worked together in the studio, they always said it's "good, it's good," and I would go, "I don't think so." But they'd be "Keep it!" And being upstairs in my home studio, I don't keep it; I just go for it until it's perfect.
Blistering.com: What made "Bad Guys Wear Black" the choice to be lead single?
Scheepers: We were discussing it and were thinking about which song would be the best video. You always have to think about the time of the song if you have a six-minute track, you have to think about how much time it will take the shoot the video because as I told you, the music business is not as strong as it was 20 years ago. Record labels don't have so much money to spend on video clips, so we have to think about money. In the end, we picked a strong a song and short song, somehow. It's a perfect song for the video clip.
Blistering.com: Switching gears, a lot of German metal bands that hit around the 90's are still doing well. What do you think is the reason you guys, and Blind Guardian, Gamma Ray, and Helloween are still out there?
Scheepers; I think it's still the instinct from when we started. We are a rehearsal studio band. We aren't the kids that record everything in their home studio, we also know how it is to rehearse our asses off for weeks and I think that allowed us to have a certain quality. Like I said, I'm recording my own vocals, but I don't want to miss the time when we were learning, the years when I was 16 to 27 in Gamma Ray. You really learn a lot when you're rehearsing and composing with a band, and rocking your ass off the rehearsal studio. If you can make it there, you can make it anywhere.
Blistering.com: What kind of things did you take away from being in Gamma Ray?
Scheepers: A lot. I was starting to tour all around the world, apart from America. I had to comfort to not record everything in two or three weeks - we were there for three months for the Heading For Tomorrow album. You always collect experience and learn a lot, which is the most important thing. I still think nothing will ever change that fact that I have respect for Kai [Hansen] and all the other musicians of Gamma Ray. We are great friends still. When we meet on the road, we have a good time. It was just time...maybe it wasn't perfect anymore in the end. But two months later, we were sitting together and having a good time. And that's why we got together to record Judas Priest's "Exciter." It was a certain strange feeling for me, going up there again where I was five years for almost every weekend [laughs]. It had to be....everything sorted out in the end.
Blistering.com: Everyone knows you were one of the finalists to land the Judas Priest gig in the mid-90's. Any regrets with not getting it?
Scheepers:None at all. Everything is so long ago now.
Blistering.com: Hard to believe that was 15 or 16 years ago.
Scheepers: I know, but everyone is happy now, even Tim [Owens] is happy with what he's doing. I don't want to speak for Priest, but I'm happy to hear them with Rob again, and everyone is okay. Primal Fear was born, and that was a very good step and time in my life.
Blistering.com: If you think about it, you not getting the Priest gig led to Mat finding you and starting Primal Fear. Fate, wouldn't you say?
Scheepers: I tell you, I was about to stop after Gamma Ray and not getting the Priest gig. The disappointment was really big back then. Then I spoke to Mat, and we're coming back to the friend thing - he really helped me out of a black hole. We sat together and composed some songs, very free, without any pressure, sent the tape around, and all of the sudden, everyone wanted us and that was great.
Blistering.com: You've hit North America a few times, so are there any plans to try and come back?
Scheepers:Absolutely, we have to. We want to, we'd love to. It's really hard, though. It's pretty tough for a German band to come over there with a working visa since it's so expensive. It's a big, big deal, and a big thing to get there and play. It's worth it. We experienced last year when we did a few weeks over there. Not every house was packed, but in the end, it was the right step to get our foot in the door. You have to play live and it's a huge country. It takes you weeks, even months to get everywhere, and you have to be really strong and to stick together and be one unit. We always say in Europe, "You make in America without splitting up, you can make it anywhere."
www.primalfear.de
Scheepers: We were discussing it and were thinking about which song would be the best video. You always have to think about the time of the song if you have a six-minute track, you have to think about how much time it will take the shoot the video because as I told you, the music business is not as strong as it was 20 years ago. Record labels don't have so much money to spend on video clips, so we have to think about money. In the end, we picked a strong a song and short song, somehow. It's a perfect song for the video clip.
Blistering.com: Switching gears, a lot of German metal bands that hit around the 90's are still doing well. What do you think is the reason you guys, and Blind Guardian, Gamma Ray, and Helloween are still out there?
Scheepers; I think it's still the instinct from when we started. We are a rehearsal studio band. We aren't the kids that record everything in their home studio, we also know how it is to rehearse our asses off for weeks and I think that allowed us to have a certain quality. Like I said, I'm recording my own vocals, but I don't want to miss the time when we were learning, the years when I was 16 to 27 in Gamma Ray. You really learn a lot when you're rehearsing and composing with a band, and rocking your ass off the rehearsal studio. If you can make it there, you can make it anywhere.
Blistering.com: What kind of things did you take away from being in Gamma Ray?
Scheepers: A lot. I was starting to tour all around the world, apart from America. I had to comfort to not record everything in two or three weeks - we were there for three months for the Heading For Tomorrow album. You always collect experience and learn a lot, which is the most important thing. I still think nothing will ever change that fact that I have respect for Kai [Hansen] and all the other musicians of Gamma Ray. We are great friends still. When we meet on the road, we have a good time. It was just time...maybe it wasn't perfect anymore in the end. But two months later, we were sitting together and having a good time. And that's why we got together to record Judas Priest's "Exciter." It was a certain strange feeling for me, going up there again where I was five years for almost every weekend [laughs]. It had to be....everything sorted out in the end.
Blistering.com: Everyone knows you were one of the finalists to land the Judas Priest gig in the mid-90's. Any regrets with not getting it?
Scheepers:None at all. Everything is so long ago now.
Blistering.com: Hard to believe that was 15 or 16 years ago.
Scheepers: I know, but everyone is happy now, even Tim [Owens] is happy with what he's doing. I don't want to speak for Priest, but I'm happy to hear them with Rob again, and everyone is okay. Primal Fear was born, and that was a very good step and time in my life.
Blistering.com: If you think about it, you not getting the Priest gig led to Mat finding you and starting Primal Fear. Fate, wouldn't you say?
Scheepers: I tell you, I was about to stop after Gamma Ray and not getting the Priest gig. The disappointment was really big back then. Then I spoke to Mat, and we're coming back to the friend thing - he really helped me out of a black hole. We sat together and composed some songs, very free, without any pressure, sent the tape around, and all of the sudden, everyone wanted us and that was great.
Blistering.com: You've hit North America a few times, so are there any plans to try and come back?
Scheepers:Absolutely, we have to. We want to, we'd love to. It's really hard, though. It's pretty tough for a German band to come over there with a working visa since it's so expensive. It's a big, big deal, and a big thing to get there and play. It's worth it. We experienced last year when we did a few weeks over there. Not every house was packed, but in the end, it was the right step to get our foot in the door. You have to play live and it's a huge country. It takes you weeks, even months to get everywhere, and you have to be really strong and to stick together and be one unit. We always say in Europe, "You make in America without splitting up, you can make it anywhere."
www.primalfear.de
The self-titled debut EP from ADRENALINE MOB, which was released last summer, will soon be going out of print. Self-produced by the band, the effort features four original tracks as well as a cover of the Ronnie James Dio-era BLACK SABBATH classic "The Mob Rules". The group states, "We put it out so you all could have a little taste of what this band was going to be about, but with the release of [the ADRENALINE MOB full-length debut] 'Omertà' coming quickly, it's time to take it down. 'Omertà' will have new versions of the four original tracks [that were featured on the EP]. Parts have been re-recorded and the songs have been completely remixed and remastered. Once our current inventory of physical CDs are gone, they will not be re-ordered. The digital version of the EP will be removed from iTunes and other digital outlets here in the U.S. by Friday of this week. We thank all of you who loved the EP and we appreciate all your support!"
The EP is now available for streaming in its entirety using the player below.
ADRENALINE MOB is the new band featuring drummer Mike Portnoy (DREAM THEATER, AVENGED SEVENFOLD), SYMPHONY X frontman Russell Allen and guitar virtuoso Mike Orlando (SONIC STOMP).
"Omertá" will be released on March 13 via the newly formed Elm City Music in conjunction with EMI Label Services. The 11-song CD — which was produced by ADRENALINE MOB and mixed by Jay Ruston, who has previously worked on ANTHRAX's "Worship Music" and STEEL PANTHER's "Balls Out" — includes a blistering reinterpretation of DURAN DURAN's classic "Come Undone" featuring guest vocals by Lzzy Hale of HALESTORM.
"Omertá" track listing:
01. Undaunted
02. Psychosane
03. Indifferent
04. All on the Line
05. Hit the Wall
06. Feelin' Me
07. Come Undone (feat. Lzzy Hale)
08. Believe Me
09. Down to the Floor
10. Angel Sky
11. Freight Train
ADRENALINE MOB's first-ever headline tour made stops in various markets, including Chicago, Denver and San Francisco. ADRENALINE MOB also opened for GODSMACK on select dates of the Massachusetts act's headlining tour.
ADRENALINE MOB formed in early 2011 when Orlando approached Allen with some material the guitarist had written. Allen and Orlando refined those ideas, at which time Allen reached out to longtime friend Portnoy to see if he had any interest in playing with them. Portnoy jumped on board and soon thereafter DiLeo and Ward were recruited to join the family. From the very first note, the chemistry was apparent and the beast that is known as ADRENALINE MOB was born.
Guitarist Rich Ward (STUCK MOJO, FOZZY) and bassist Paul DiLeo (FOZZY) announced their departures from ADRENALINE MOB last week due to scheduling conflicts with their other projects.
The EP is now available for streaming in its entirety using the player below.
ADRENALINE MOB is the new band featuring drummer Mike Portnoy (DREAM THEATER, AVENGED SEVENFOLD), SYMPHONY X frontman Russell Allen and guitar virtuoso Mike Orlando (SONIC STOMP).
"Omertá" will be released on March 13 via the newly formed Elm City Music in conjunction with EMI Label Services. The 11-song CD — which was produced by ADRENALINE MOB and mixed by Jay Ruston, who has previously worked on ANTHRAX's "Worship Music" and STEEL PANTHER's "Balls Out" — includes a blistering reinterpretation of DURAN DURAN's classic "Come Undone" featuring guest vocals by Lzzy Hale of HALESTORM.
"Omertá" track listing:
01. Undaunted
02. Psychosane
03. Indifferent
04. All on the Line
05. Hit the Wall
06. Feelin' Me
07. Come Undone (feat. Lzzy Hale)
08. Believe Me
09. Down to the Floor
10. Angel Sky
11. Freight Train
ADRENALINE MOB's first-ever headline tour made stops in various markets, including Chicago, Denver and San Francisco. ADRENALINE MOB also opened for GODSMACK on select dates of the Massachusetts act's headlining tour.
ADRENALINE MOB formed in early 2011 when Orlando approached Allen with some material the guitarist had written. Allen and Orlando refined those ideas, at which time Allen reached out to longtime friend Portnoy to see if he had any interest in playing with them. Portnoy jumped on board and soon thereafter DiLeo and Ward were recruited to join the family. From the very first note, the chemistry was apparent and the beast that is known as ADRENALINE MOB was born.
Guitarist Rich Ward (STUCK MOJO, FOZZY) and bassist Paul DiLeo (FOZZY) announced their departures from ADRENALINE MOB last week due to scheduling conflicts with their other projects.
Massachusetts metallers KILLSWITCH ENGAGE have released the following statement:
"We've been getting a lot of inquiries about the [vacant KILLSWITCH ENGAGE] singer position. If you are interested, please send an MP3 or a song link, a photo and a brief description of yourself to the management email address provided in the contact section of KillswitchEngage.com."
Former KILLSWITCH ENGAGE frontman Howard Jones issued a statement regarding his departure from the group, which was announced last week. Jones wrote in part, "I've had a pretty interesting couple of years, to say the least, battling with some personal issues. One of the low points being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes that went unchecked for years. The rest of the band stuck with me through it, and, to be honest, they are the ones that kept me going. The whole experience definitely put a scare in me."
He continued, "Recently we've all been in writing mode, but somehow I couldn't get excited about the new album and all the touring that would go with it. The guys saw it before I did. In hindsight, I now realize that my heart wasn't in it."
Jones thanked the rest of the band for "an amazing decade," adding, "I have so many good memories, and those are the ones that I will keep."
The band said in its statement last week, "We love Howard and are thankful for the nine years that we've had him in the band. Out of respect for everyone involved we will not be discussing the specific reasons behind this decision. Howard is a part of our family and always will be, and we wish him well."
No replacement has been found yet for the 41-year-old Jones, who joined KILLSWITCH in 2002 after the departure of original vocalist Jesse Leach. Jones sang on the band's last three studio efforts, including 2009's self-titled set.
"We've been getting a lot of inquiries about the [vacant KILLSWITCH ENGAGE] singer position. If you are interested, please send an MP3 or a song link, a photo and a brief description of yourself to the management email address provided in the contact section of KillswitchEngage.com."
Former KILLSWITCH ENGAGE frontman Howard Jones issued a statement regarding his departure from the group, which was announced last week. Jones wrote in part, "I've had a pretty interesting couple of years, to say the least, battling with some personal issues. One of the low points being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes that went unchecked for years. The rest of the band stuck with me through it, and, to be honest, they are the ones that kept me going. The whole experience definitely put a scare in me."
He continued, "Recently we've all been in writing mode, but somehow I couldn't get excited about the new album and all the touring that would go with it. The guys saw it before I did. In hindsight, I now realize that my heart wasn't in it."
Jones thanked the rest of the band for "an amazing decade," adding, "I have so many good memories, and those are the ones that I will keep."
The band said in its statement last week, "We love Howard and are thankful for the nine years that we've had him in the band. Out of respect for everyone involved we will not be discussing the specific reasons behind this decision. Howard is a part of our family and always will be, and we wish him well."
No replacement has been found yet for the 41-year-old Jones, who joined KILLSWITCH in 2002 after the departure of original vocalist Jesse Leach. Jones sang on the band's last three studio efforts, including 2009's self-titled set.
Finnish/Swedish symphonic metallers NIGHTWISH will take part in a CD-signing session at SoundCheck Hollywood on Friday, January 20 at 6 p.m. Stop by the store starting Tuesday, January 10 to pick up the band's new album, "Imaginaerum", and get a wristband which guarantees your access to meet the band.
SoundCheck Hollywood
8872 Sunset Blvd.
W. Hollywood, CA 90069
310.358.0280
As previously reported, "Imaginaerum" has been certified gold in Germany for sales in excess of 100,000 copies. The CD also entered the official chart in Finland at position No. 1 and has already been certifield triple platinum in the country after shifting more than 60,000 units.
[Note: The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) in Finland has revised the sales requirements for albums to reach platinum status in the country from the pre-2010 level of 30,000 to the current 20,000.]
The band's first CD since 2007's "Dark Passion Play" — which was then-new singer Anette Olzon's debut — "Imaginaerum" is due in North America on January 10 via Roadrunner Records.
NIGHTWISH will play a "secret" gig under the name RUBBER BAND OF WOLVES at the Key Club in West Hollywood, California on January 19 — two days before the Finnish/Swedish symphonic metal act's world-tour kick-off performance at the Gibson Ampitheater in Universal City. The Universal City concert will be the biggest NIGHTWISH show production ever on North American soil and strictly a one-off — there will be no U.S. tour until later in 2012.
ANVIL's "Juggernaut Of Justice" took the number one spot in WJCU's "Metal On Metal" Top 25 year-end album countdown show, which aired live on January 6. ANTHRAX's "Worship Music" finished a close second.
"It feels like my hometown team just won the Super Bowl!" says "Metal On Metal" host Bill Peters, who named his show in 1982 after ANVIL's landmark album released the same year. "My listeners could not have given me a better gift to start off my 30th year of broadcasting. 'Juggernaut Of Justice' is ANVIL's best studio album since "Forged In Fire". I'm glad my listeners felt the same by voting it number one this year."
ANVIL has had a longtime special connection with the Cleveland metal fans. The band has played Cleveland more times in their career than any other U.S. city. One of their biggest Cleveland shows was a headlining performance at Peters' "Metal On Metal" 25th anniversary concert in 2007 at the Beachland Ballroom.
"To Bill and every one of his listeners, I'd like to thank you with all my heart!" says ANVIL vocalist/guitarist Steve "Lips" Kudlow. "We hoped so much that people would love the 'Juggernaut Of Justice' album and it's such an honor and privilege to have been voted No. 1 by the fans. So it's not just about a movie, people have embraced our new music, too. This is a celebration of complete fulfillment. FUCKEN EH!"
"Great news!" adds ANVIL drummer Robb Reiner. "I love Cleveland, great music town, along with the years of faithful support from Bill Peters for keeping the majesty of ANVIL's music alive for all to discover and enjoy. Thank you, rockers!"
This was the 28th year of the poll, which is an annual tradition with metal fans in Cleveland and one of "Metal On Metal"'s most popular programs. Listeners were asked to nominate their top three albums of 2011. 1,089 votes were received.
"We had another great listener response to both the poll and broadcast", says Peters. "So many people were tuned in online that we maxed out the server!"
The show has garnished the attention of not only fans but musicians as well. Wolf Hoffmann from ACCEPT, Dave Mustaine from MEGADETH and Chuck Billy from TESTAMENT all have acknowledged recent past album victories by publicly thanking their fans from Cleveland.
WJCU's "Metal On Metal" can be heard every Friday night from 6:30 p.m to 9:30 p.m. EST on 88.7 FM in the Cleveland, Ohio area or streamed worldwide at www.wjcu.org.
"Metal On Metal"'s top albums of 2011:
01. ANVIL - "Juggernaut of Justice" (The End)
02. ANTHRAX - "Worship Music" (Megaforce)
03. SAXON - "Call To Arms" (UDR)
04. JAG PANZER - "The Scourge Of The Light" (SPV/Steamhammer)
05. MEGADETH - "Th1rt3en" (Roadrunner)
06. LAKE OF TEARS - "Illwill" (AFM)
07. SYMPHONY X - "Iconoclast" (Nuclear Blast)
08. GHOST - "Opus Eponymous" (Metal Blade)
09. AMON AMARTH - "Surtur Rising" (Metal Blade)
10. ARCH/MATHEOS - "Sympathetic Resonance" (Metal Blade)
11. MACHINE HEAD - "Unto The Locust" (Roadrunner)
12. DREAM THEATER - "Dramatic Turn Of Events" (Roadrunner)
13. ICED EARTH - "Dystopia" (Century Media)
14. WARBRINGER - "Worlds Torn Asounder" (Century Media)
15. RIOT - "Immortal Soul" (SPV/Steamhammer)
16. VENOM - "Fallen Angels" (Spinefarm/Universal)
17. JACK STARR'S BURNING STARR - "Land Of The Dead" (LMP)
18. ALESTORM - "Back Through Time" (Napalm)
19. BULLET - "Highway Pirates" (Black Lodge)
20. CROWBAR - "Sever The Wicked Hand" (eOne)
21. GRAVEYARD - "Hisingen Blues" (Nuclear Blast)
22. REDEMPTION - "This Mortal Coil" (InsideOut)
23. ORCHID - "Capricorn" (Church Within)
24. H.A.T.E. - "Inject The Infection" (Auburn)
25. HAVOK - "Time Is Up" (Candlelight)
"It feels like my hometown team just won the Super Bowl!" says "Metal On Metal" host Bill Peters, who named his show in 1982 after ANVIL's landmark album released the same year. "My listeners could not have given me a better gift to start off my 30th year of broadcasting. 'Juggernaut Of Justice' is ANVIL's best studio album since "Forged In Fire". I'm glad my listeners felt the same by voting it number one this year."
ANVIL has had a longtime special connection with the Cleveland metal fans. The band has played Cleveland more times in their career than any other U.S. city. One of their biggest Cleveland shows was a headlining performance at Peters' "Metal On Metal" 25th anniversary concert in 2007 at the Beachland Ballroom.
"To Bill and every one of his listeners, I'd like to thank you with all my heart!" says ANVIL vocalist/guitarist Steve "Lips" Kudlow. "We hoped so much that people would love the 'Juggernaut Of Justice' album and it's such an honor and privilege to have been voted No. 1 by the fans. So it's not just about a movie, people have embraced our new music, too. This is a celebration of complete fulfillment. FUCKEN EH!"
"Great news!" adds ANVIL drummer Robb Reiner. "I love Cleveland, great music town, along with the years of faithful support from Bill Peters for keeping the majesty of ANVIL's music alive for all to discover and enjoy. Thank you, rockers!"
This was the 28th year of the poll, which is an annual tradition with metal fans in Cleveland and one of "Metal On Metal"'s most popular programs. Listeners were asked to nominate their top three albums of 2011. 1,089 votes were received.
"We had another great listener response to both the poll and broadcast", says Peters. "So many people were tuned in online that we maxed out the server!"
The show has garnished the attention of not only fans but musicians as well. Wolf Hoffmann from ACCEPT, Dave Mustaine from MEGADETH and Chuck Billy from TESTAMENT all have acknowledged recent past album victories by publicly thanking their fans from Cleveland.
WJCU's "Metal On Metal" can be heard every Friday night from 6:30 p.m to 9:30 p.m. EST on 88.7 FM in the Cleveland, Ohio area or streamed worldwide at www.wjcu.org.
"Metal On Metal"'s top albums of 2011:
01. ANVIL - "Juggernaut of Justice" (The End)
02. ANTHRAX - "Worship Music" (Megaforce)
03. SAXON - "Call To Arms" (UDR)
04. JAG PANZER - "The Scourge Of The Light" (SPV/Steamhammer)
05. MEGADETH - "Th1rt3en" (Roadrunner)
06. LAKE OF TEARS - "Illwill" (AFM)
07. SYMPHONY X - "Iconoclast" (Nuclear Blast)
08. GHOST - "Opus Eponymous" (Metal Blade)
09. AMON AMARTH - "Surtur Rising" (Metal Blade)
10. ARCH/MATHEOS - "Sympathetic Resonance" (Metal Blade)
11. MACHINE HEAD - "Unto The Locust" (Roadrunner)
12. DREAM THEATER - "Dramatic Turn Of Events" (Roadrunner)
13. ICED EARTH - "Dystopia" (Century Media)
14. WARBRINGER - "Worlds Torn Asounder" (Century Media)
15. RIOT - "Immortal Soul" (SPV/Steamhammer)
16. VENOM - "Fallen Angels" (Spinefarm/Universal)
17. JACK STARR'S BURNING STARR - "Land Of The Dead" (LMP)
18. ALESTORM - "Back Through Time" (Napalm)
19. BULLET - "Highway Pirates" (Black Lodge)
20. CROWBAR - "Sever The Wicked Hand" (eOne)
21. GRAVEYARD - "Hisingen Blues" (Nuclear Blast)
22. REDEMPTION - "This Mortal Coil" (InsideOut)
23. ORCHID - "Capricorn" (Church Within)
24. H.A.T.E. - "Inject The Infection" (Auburn)
25. HAVOK - "Time Is Up" (Candlelight)
Reactivated Arizona thrashers SACRED REICH will embark on a 25th-anniversary European tour this summer. Confirmed dates are as follows:
Jun. 07 - GRE - Athens - Gagarin 205
Jun. 09 - SWE - Sölvesborg - Sweden Rock Festival
Jun. 10 - GER - Hamburg - Markthalle *
Jun. 12 - GER - Berlin - C-Club *
Jun. 13 - GER - Bochum - Zeche *
Jun. 14 - GER - Nürnberg - Hirsch *
Jun. 15 - SWI - Pratteln - Galery *
Jun. 17 - FRA - Clisson - Hellfest
Jun. 21 - GBR - London - Underworld
Jun. 22 - BEL - Dessel - Graspop
Jun. 23 - NED - Zwolle - Hedon
Aug. 03 - GER - Wacken - Wacken Open Air
Aug. 04 - FIN - Pori - Porispere
* With support from DEGRADEAD
The remastered edition of SACRED REICH's classic 1992 album "Independent" was released as a digipack and jewelbox on March 15, 2010 via Displeased Records. The first 2,500 copies contain a free SACRED REICH patch.
Bonus tracks:
* "A Question" (from "A Question" EP)
* "Let's Have A War" (FEAR cover from "A Question" EP)
* "Who's To Blame" (from "A Question" EP)
* "The Big Picture" (MDC cover from "Open Book" EP)
* "Crawling" [radio edit] (from "Crawling" EP)
Displeased Records' reissue of SACRED REICH's classic album "The American Way" came out in February 2009. With upgraded layout, to-the-point remastering plus unreleased pre-production demo bonus tracks and a video clip, this new and improved CD reissue is an essential addition to every thrash metal collection!
"The American Way" was made available in a limited digipak version and standard jewel case version. The first 2,500 copies came with a free logo patch.
Jun. 07 - GRE - Athens - Gagarin 205
Jun. 09 - SWE - Sölvesborg - Sweden Rock Festival
Jun. 10 - GER - Hamburg - Markthalle *
Jun. 12 - GER - Berlin - C-Club *
Jun. 13 - GER - Bochum - Zeche *
Jun. 14 - GER - Nürnberg - Hirsch *
Jun. 15 - SWI - Pratteln - Galery *
Jun. 17 - FRA - Clisson - Hellfest
Jun. 21 - GBR - London - Underworld
Jun. 22 - BEL - Dessel - Graspop
Jun. 23 - NED - Zwolle - Hedon
Aug. 03 - GER - Wacken - Wacken Open Air
Aug. 04 - FIN - Pori - Porispere
* With support from DEGRADEAD
The remastered edition of SACRED REICH's classic 1992 album "Independent" was released as a digipack and jewelbox on March 15, 2010 via Displeased Records. The first 2,500 copies contain a free SACRED REICH patch.
Bonus tracks:
* "A Question" (from "A Question" EP)
* "Let's Have A War" (FEAR cover from "A Question" EP)
* "Who's To Blame" (from "A Question" EP)
* "The Big Picture" (MDC cover from "Open Book" EP)
* "Crawling" [radio edit] (from "Crawling" EP)
Displeased Records' reissue of SACRED REICH's classic album "The American Way" came out in February 2009. With upgraded layout, to-the-point remastering plus unreleased pre-production demo bonus tracks and a video clip, this new and improved CD reissue is an essential addition to every thrash metal collection!
"The American Way" was made available in a limited digipak version and standard jewel case version. The first 2,500 copies came with a free logo patch.
From the beginning, JANE'S ADDICTION has thrown the most unique parties in rock, mixing a fierce musicality with theatrical flair onstage. 2012 sees the band — who've always outrageously combined electricity, sex and danger — return in support of their acclaimed album "The Great Escape Artist" (Capitol Records), which features the now-buzzing-at-radio track "Underground". Starting February 22, this special run of North American shows — called "Theatre Of The Escapists" — will bring the band to intimate venues, most of which are classic theatres. The alternative rock pioneers — frontman Perry Farrell, guitarist Dave Navarro and drummer Stephen Perkins, along with Chris Chaney on bass — are poised to deliver an immersive theatrical experience as only they can. Tickets go on sale January 14, with a pre-sale set for 10:00 EST this Wednesday, January 11. There will be a special package on JanesAddiction.com where fans can pair up their presale ticket with a high-quality lithograph. The lithograph will be signed by the band and sold only at the JanesAddiction.com presale.
"We chose to play as many of the great theatres that we could find because we wanted to immerse the audience in a unique experience unlike any they have ever seen at a rock show," says Farrell. "Expect an orgy of musical and visual delights. We like orgies, and hope you do too."
The cities for JANE'S ADDICTION's "Theatre of the Escapists" tour, with support act BLACK BOX REVELATION, are as follows:
* Saint Louis, MO
* Detroit, MI
* Columbus, OH
* Toronto, ON
* Rochester, NY
* Albany, NY
* Portland, ME
* Long Island, NY
* Wellmont, NJ
* Waterbury, CT
* Richmond, VA
* Myrtle Beach, SC
* Atlanta, GA
* Tulsa, OK
* Kansas City, MO
* Minneapolis, MN
* Grand Rapids, MI
* Milwaukee, WI
JANE'S ADDICTION recently tapped Robert Hales (STONE TEMPLE PILOTS, NINE INCH NAILS, BRITNEY SPEARS, MILEY CYRUS, KID ROCK) to direct the video for their song "Underground". The clip is expected to make its online debut during the coming weeks.
"Underground" comes off JANE'S ADDICTION's new album, "The Great Escape Artist", which sold around 24,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 12 on The Billboard 200 chart.
"The Great Escape Artist" is JANE'S ADDICTION's first all-new studio effort since 2003's "Strays", which opened with more than 110,000 units to enter the chart at No. 4.
"The Great Escape Artist" is only JANE'S ADDICTION's fourth album of original material in 20 years. Like other bands that have reunited in recent years such as BLINK-182, the members of JANE'S ADDICTION recorded a lot of the album in separate studios.
Although founding bassist Eric Avery initially returned to the band when it reactivated in 2009, he quit the following year.
Dave Sitek of TV ON THE RADIO played bass on and co-produced the new record, while Chris Chaney has returned as touring bassist.
Ex-GUNS N' ROSES bassist Duff McKagan also contributed to the album and has songwriting credits on three songs.
"We chose to play as many of the great theatres that we could find because we wanted to immerse the audience in a unique experience unlike any they have ever seen at a rock show," says Farrell. "Expect an orgy of musical and visual delights. We like orgies, and hope you do too."
The cities for JANE'S ADDICTION's "Theatre of the Escapists" tour, with support act BLACK BOX REVELATION, are as follows:
* Saint Louis, MO
* Detroit, MI
* Columbus, OH
* Toronto, ON
* Rochester, NY
* Albany, NY
* Portland, ME
* Long Island, NY
* Wellmont, NJ
* Waterbury, CT
* Richmond, VA
* Myrtle Beach, SC
* Atlanta, GA
* Tulsa, OK
* Kansas City, MO
* Minneapolis, MN
* Grand Rapids, MI
* Milwaukee, WI
JANE'S ADDICTION recently tapped Robert Hales (STONE TEMPLE PILOTS, NINE INCH NAILS, BRITNEY SPEARS, MILEY CYRUS, KID ROCK) to direct the video for their song "Underground". The clip is expected to make its online debut during the coming weeks.
"Underground" comes off JANE'S ADDICTION's new album, "The Great Escape Artist", which sold around 24,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 12 on The Billboard 200 chart.
"The Great Escape Artist" is JANE'S ADDICTION's first all-new studio effort since 2003's "Strays", which opened with more than 110,000 units to enter the chart at No. 4.
"The Great Escape Artist" is only JANE'S ADDICTION's fourth album of original material in 20 years. Like other bands that have reunited in recent years such as BLINK-182, the members of JANE'S ADDICTION recorded a lot of the album in separate studios.
Although founding bassist Eric Avery initially returned to the band when it reactivated in 2009, he quit the following year.
Dave Sitek of TV ON THE RADIO played bass on and co-produced the new record, while Chris Chaney has returned as touring bassist.
Ex-GUNS N' ROSES bassist Duff McKagan also contributed to the album and has songwriting credits on three songs.
Very often, musicians — especially established ones — like to remain within their musical comfort zone, preferring to walk the tried-and-tested path rather than breaking out in search of pastures new. PRIMAL ROCK REBELLION don't fit that bill.
The brainchild of Adrian Smith and Mikee Goodman, U.K. musicians with different stories to tell, this is a fresh new project that manages to be both reassuring and unexpected at one and the same time…
On the one side, there's Adrian, a key member of the IRON MAIDEN setup, a band he first joined back in 1980; and since that time, MAIDEN has gone on to become one of the biggest hard rock bands the world has seen, playing to vast and staunchly committed crowds all over the world, opening exciting new doors in parts of the globe many people will never even have heard of! Their last studio album, "The Final Frontier", hit the No 1 slot in over 28 countries!
With MAIDEN's reputation having been forged through their ability to blend well-crafted vocal and guitar melodies with the sheer brute force of prime heavy metal, it will surely come as no surprise that the debut PRIMAL ROCK REBELLION album, "Awoken Broken", delivers fully on both fronts, but with an extra nod to the underground, the alternative and the downright edgy — an aspect of the music that is enhanced from start to finish by the presence of one-time SIKTH frontman / lyric-writer/spoken-word maestro, Mikee Goodman.
With SIKTH now universally lauded as one of the major inspirations of the new "Djent" movement, it's perfect timing for Mikee to return to the music scene in full force, following that band's decision to take a break after their second "Death Of A Dead Day" album back in 2006; Mikee's unique vocal approach — an arresting, signature blend of spoken word plus a wide variety of vocal tones (some dark and disturbing, others that owe a debt to the world of animation) — was very much a part of what made SIKTH stand out from the chasing pack, and fans will be delighted to know that his key vocal mannerisms have been both retained and honed for PRIMAL ROCK REBELLION, in a form tightly bound to the structure of the songs themselves.
Yes, there are spoken-word elements, and yes, there are more extreme vocal moments peppered throughout the tracks, but generally speaking, this is a more mature and experienced Mikee, showcasing a strong, melodic voice plus an impressive vocal range, using the more "adventurous" end of his repertoire as a way of providing contrast and effect.
In essence, PRIMAL ROCK REBELLION is the meeting of different minds, different mentalities and different musical backgrounds, but the end result is very much a cohesive, self-produced whole… albeit one that reflects the individual talents of the musicians involved: Adrian provides the guitars, the bass and the advanced song-writing skills — the sense of drama, of light and shade, of music designed to stir the senses, all of them.
Right from the start, it's been very much a labor of love…
Adrian: "It was great working at my own pace and in my own studio with no time constraints. I think during the making of this album I went around the world twice with MAIDEN, working on the project in between. In the process, it allowed for a bit more of an experimental approach."
Meanwhile, Mikee goes head to head with this renowned player as a full writing & production partner, adding new (sometimes surprising, often experimental) layers to the tracks, and ensuring that the music glistens with an inherent contemporary sheen.
Mikee: "Adrian inspired me in many ways. I learnt the importance and the power of choruses in songs. Adrian also gave me a lot more belief in myself melodically. I think we pulled each other out of our comfort zones, creating something fresh and exciting along the way. We co-produced the album together, and the whole recording process was very relaxed — no deadlines, just honing the songs naturally as we recorded them, a new experience for both of us."
In addition to the PRIMAL ROCK REBELLION pair, there are backing vocals on three of the tracks (delivered by Tarin Kerry, discovered by Mikee while he was acting as producer for a band she was in), viola on the bulk of the songs (provided by Abi Fry of BAT FOR LASHES), plus original SIKTH member Dan "Loord" Foord on drums.
"Awoken Broken" was produced by Adrian and Mikee, and mixed by Simon Hanhart, whose previous credits include everyone from TIN MACHINE to SAXON. The album features 12 tracks top to tail, and it will be available on digipak CD, digital download and double coloured vinyl in gatefold sleeve.
"Awoken Broken" track listing:
01. No Friendly Neighbour (4:53)
02. No Place Like Home (3:06)
03. I See Lights (4:59)
04. Bright As A Fire (6:21)
05. Savage World (3:38)
06. Tortured Tone (5:08)
07. White Sheet Robes (5:16)
08. As Tears Come Falling From The Sky (0:47)
09. Awoken Broken (4:58)
10. Search For Bliss (4:13)
11. Snake Ladders (4:43)
12. Mirror and the Moon (5:04)
"Awoken Broken" will be released on February 27 via Spinefarm Records.
The track "I See Lights" can be streamed using the SoundCloud player below.
PRIMAL ROCK REBELLION was originally scheduled to play a "one-off, under-the-radar" gig on January 15, 2011 at the Wycombe Bucks Student Union, but the gig ended up being canceled after it was inadvertently advertised via the Internet.
The brainchild of Adrian Smith and Mikee Goodman, U.K. musicians with different stories to tell, this is a fresh new project that manages to be both reassuring and unexpected at one and the same time…
On the one side, there's Adrian, a key member of the IRON MAIDEN setup, a band he first joined back in 1980; and since that time, MAIDEN has gone on to become one of the biggest hard rock bands the world has seen, playing to vast and staunchly committed crowds all over the world, opening exciting new doors in parts of the globe many people will never even have heard of! Their last studio album, "The Final Frontier", hit the No 1 slot in over 28 countries!
With MAIDEN's reputation having been forged through their ability to blend well-crafted vocal and guitar melodies with the sheer brute force of prime heavy metal, it will surely come as no surprise that the debut PRIMAL ROCK REBELLION album, "Awoken Broken", delivers fully on both fronts, but with an extra nod to the underground, the alternative and the downright edgy — an aspect of the music that is enhanced from start to finish by the presence of one-time SIKTH frontman / lyric-writer/spoken-word maestro, Mikee Goodman.
With SIKTH now universally lauded as one of the major inspirations of the new "Djent" movement, it's perfect timing for Mikee to return to the music scene in full force, following that band's decision to take a break after their second "Death Of A Dead Day" album back in 2006; Mikee's unique vocal approach — an arresting, signature blend of spoken word plus a wide variety of vocal tones (some dark and disturbing, others that owe a debt to the world of animation) — was very much a part of what made SIKTH stand out from the chasing pack, and fans will be delighted to know that his key vocal mannerisms have been both retained and honed for PRIMAL ROCK REBELLION, in a form tightly bound to the structure of the songs themselves.
Yes, there are spoken-word elements, and yes, there are more extreme vocal moments peppered throughout the tracks, but generally speaking, this is a more mature and experienced Mikee, showcasing a strong, melodic voice plus an impressive vocal range, using the more "adventurous" end of his repertoire as a way of providing contrast and effect.
In essence, PRIMAL ROCK REBELLION is the meeting of different minds, different mentalities and different musical backgrounds, but the end result is very much a cohesive, self-produced whole… albeit one that reflects the individual talents of the musicians involved: Adrian provides the guitars, the bass and the advanced song-writing skills — the sense of drama, of light and shade, of music designed to stir the senses, all of them.
Right from the start, it's been very much a labor of love…
Adrian: "It was great working at my own pace and in my own studio with no time constraints. I think during the making of this album I went around the world twice with MAIDEN, working on the project in between. In the process, it allowed for a bit more of an experimental approach."
Meanwhile, Mikee goes head to head with this renowned player as a full writing & production partner, adding new (sometimes surprising, often experimental) layers to the tracks, and ensuring that the music glistens with an inherent contemporary sheen.
Mikee: "Adrian inspired me in many ways. I learnt the importance and the power of choruses in songs. Adrian also gave me a lot more belief in myself melodically. I think we pulled each other out of our comfort zones, creating something fresh and exciting along the way. We co-produced the album together, and the whole recording process was very relaxed — no deadlines, just honing the songs naturally as we recorded them, a new experience for both of us."
In addition to the PRIMAL ROCK REBELLION pair, there are backing vocals on three of the tracks (delivered by Tarin Kerry, discovered by Mikee while he was acting as producer for a band she was in), viola on the bulk of the songs (provided by Abi Fry of BAT FOR LASHES), plus original SIKTH member Dan "Loord" Foord on drums.
"Awoken Broken" was produced by Adrian and Mikee, and mixed by Simon Hanhart, whose previous credits include everyone from TIN MACHINE to SAXON. The album features 12 tracks top to tail, and it will be available on digipak CD, digital download and double coloured vinyl in gatefold sleeve.
"Awoken Broken" track listing:
01. No Friendly Neighbour (4:53)
02. No Place Like Home (3:06)
03. I See Lights (4:59)
04. Bright As A Fire (6:21)
05. Savage World (3:38)
06. Tortured Tone (5:08)
07. White Sheet Robes (5:16)
08. As Tears Come Falling From The Sky (0:47)
09. Awoken Broken (4:58)
10. Search For Bliss (4:13)
11. Snake Ladders (4:43)
12. Mirror and the Moon (5:04)
"Awoken Broken" will be released on February 27 via Spinefarm Records.
The track "I See Lights" can be streamed using the SoundCloud player below.
PRIMAL ROCK REBELLION was originally scheduled to play a "one-off, under-the-radar" gig on January 15, 2011 at the Wycombe Bucks Student Union, but the gig ended up being canceled after it was inadvertently advertised via the Internet.
New Brunswick, New Jersey's melodic, thrash-metal warriors GOD FORBID will debut some of their brand new material at the following East Coast shows in February:
Feb. 18 - Brooklyn, NY - St. Vitus
Feb. 24 - Clifton, NJ - Dingbatz
Commented GOD FORBID guitarist Doc Coyle: "With only one show in 2011 and two months spent in the recording studio, we have been itching to get out and play. We thought it would be a great idea to get into an intimate setting in our area for the real GOD FORBID fans. Expect to hear some new songs and some old cuts that haven't played in a while."
GOD FORBID entered the studio late last year to begin recording its new album for an early 2012 release via Victory Records. The bulk of the production on the CD was handled by Mark Lewis (THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, WHITECHAPEL, DEVILDRIVER, TRIVIUM), with Jason Suecof (TRIVIUM, ALL THAT REMAINS, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, CHIMAIRA, DEVILDRIVER) stepping in during the the vocal-tracking stage. The album was mxed at Fascination Street studios in Örebro, Sweden with Jens Bogren, who has previously worked with such acts as KATATONIA, OPETH, PARADISE LOST and AMON AMARTH.
A demo version of a new GOD FORBID song, "Where We Come From", is available for streaming in the YouTube clip below. The track was originaly given away as a free download as part of a Victory Records Labor Day digital sampler.
GOD FORBID guitarist Doc Coyle previously stated about the material for the band's forthcoming CD, "It's always difficult to tell how a new album will sound this early in the process, but I can say that our new guitar player Matt Wicklund [ex-HIMSA] is contributing tons of material. His stuff is very hook-oriented with a Scandinavian twinge.
"The stuff I've been writing has been varied from evil MORBID ANGEL, black metal shit to mid-tempo/power groove MACHINE HEAD-type stuff, and signature GOD FORBID material that is a logical progression from our previous albums."
"Where We Come From" (demo version):
Feb. 18 - Brooklyn, NY - St. Vitus
Feb. 24 - Clifton, NJ - Dingbatz
Commented GOD FORBID guitarist Doc Coyle: "With only one show in 2011 and two months spent in the recording studio, we have been itching to get out and play. We thought it would be a great idea to get into an intimate setting in our area for the real GOD FORBID fans. Expect to hear some new songs and some old cuts that haven't played in a while."
GOD FORBID entered the studio late last year to begin recording its new album for an early 2012 release via Victory Records. The bulk of the production on the CD was handled by Mark Lewis (THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, WHITECHAPEL, DEVILDRIVER, TRIVIUM), with Jason Suecof (TRIVIUM, ALL THAT REMAINS, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, CHIMAIRA, DEVILDRIVER) stepping in during the the vocal-tracking stage. The album was mxed at Fascination Street studios in Örebro, Sweden with Jens Bogren, who has previously worked with such acts as KATATONIA, OPETH, PARADISE LOST and AMON AMARTH.
A demo version of a new GOD FORBID song, "Where We Come From", is available for streaming in the YouTube clip below. The track was originaly given away as a free download as part of a Victory Records Labor Day digital sampler.
GOD FORBID guitarist Doc Coyle previously stated about the material for the band's forthcoming CD, "It's always difficult to tell how a new album will sound this early in the process, but I can say that our new guitar player Matt Wicklund [ex-HIMSA] is contributing tons of material. His stuff is very hook-oriented with a Scandinavian twinge.
"The stuff I've been writing has been varied from evil MORBID ANGEL, black metal shit to mid-tempo/power groove MACHINE HEAD-type stuff, and signature GOD FORBID material that is a logical progression from our previous albums."
"Where We Come From" (demo version):
Los Angeles-based thrashers ANGER AS ART have announced the addition of bassist Henry De La Cruz (MANIACAL GENOCIDE, STIGMATA, REVMATIX) to the group's ranks. Henry replaces Angelo Espino, who departed in October.
Commented ANGER AS ART mainman/founder Steve Gaines: "Henry was at the top of all of our lists of guys we wanted to talk to. He has been in bands with both Dan [guitarist Daniel Oliverio] and Rob [Alaniz; drummer] — and I have been onstage and jammed with him many times over the years. Musically, he's a monster. Influences? The same. He knows the history of ANGER AS ART. But most important was 'the hang.' The chemistry.
"We were facing a big unknown going forward without Angelo — and needed to know that the new person would not just fill the space, but make it his own. Intangibles. Henry is that guy."
ANGER AS ART is putting the finishing touches on its fourth album, "Hubris Inc.", at Trench Studio in Corona, California for a spring 2012 release via OSM Records.
Songtitles set to appear on the CD:
* Hubris Inc. (intro)
* This Is Why I Hate
* Pieces Of Red
* Divided We Fall
* As The Exalted Seethe
* Time Devours Life
* The Evil You Create
* Gods Of Hate
* Pearls Before Swine
* Anger Is the Reason
* Never Forgive, Never Forget
* Head Of The Snake
* Rage And Retribution
* Speed Kills
ANGER AS ART's concert DVD, "Live Dissent", was released last year. The disc features footage from the February 21, 2010 concert at the Galaxy Theatre in Santa Ana, California, clips of the band on tour in Europe and in the USA, and a segment of the recording process for the "Disfigure" album.
ANGER AS ART's third album, "Disfigure", was released in November 2009 via Old School Metal Records. The bulk of the tracking was done at Trench Studio in Corona, California with John Haddad, while the vocals and "extra stuff" was overseen by Chris Trent at CT Audio.
ANGER AS ART's current lineup:
Steve Gaines - Vocals, Guitar
Henry De La Cruz - Bass
Rob Alaniz - Drums
Daniel Oliverio - Guitar, Vocals
Commented ANGER AS ART mainman/founder Steve Gaines: "Henry was at the top of all of our lists of guys we wanted to talk to. He has been in bands with both Dan [guitarist Daniel Oliverio] and Rob [Alaniz; drummer] — and I have been onstage and jammed with him many times over the years. Musically, he's a monster. Influences? The same. He knows the history of ANGER AS ART. But most important was 'the hang.' The chemistry.
"We were facing a big unknown going forward without Angelo — and needed to know that the new person would not just fill the space, but make it his own. Intangibles. Henry is that guy."
ANGER AS ART is putting the finishing touches on its fourth album, "Hubris Inc.", at Trench Studio in Corona, California for a spring 2012 release via OSM Records.
Songtitles set to appear on the CD:
* Hubris Inc. (intro)
* This Is Why I Hate
* Pieces Of Red
* Divided We Fall
* As The Exalted Seethe
* Time Devours Life
* The Evil You Create
* Gods Of Hate
* Pearls Before Swine
* Anger Is the Reason
* Never Forgive, Never Forget
* Head Of The Snake
* Rage And Retribution
* Speed Kills
ANGER AS ART's concert DVD, "Live Dissent", was released last year. The disc features footage from the February 21, 2010 concert at the Galaxy Theatre in Santa Ana, California, clips of the band on tour in Europe and in the USA, and a segment of the recording process for the "Disfigure" album.
ANGER AS ART's third album, "Disfigure", was released in November 2009 via Old School Metal Records. The bulk of the tracking was done at Trench Studio in Corona, California with John Haddad, while the vocals and "extra stuff" was overseen by Chris Trent at CT Audio.
ANGER AS ART's current lineup:
Steve Gaines - Vocals, Guitar
Henry De La Cruz - Bass
Rob Alaniz - Drums
Daniel Oliverio - Guitar, Vocals
Sacramento, California progressive metal outfit LIFEFORMS has inked a deal with Lifeforce Records.
LIFEFORMS is a fast paced, up-and-coming heavy-hitter in the progressive metal scene, with a recent release of a five-song EP entitled "Illusions" and their second EP "Synthetic", having tremendous positive feedback from fans. The band is currently writing material for its Lifeforce Records debut, to be released on June 19 in North America and this summer in the rest of the world.
LIFEFORMS is a fast paced, up-and-coming heavy-hitter in the progressive metal scene, with a recent release of a five-song EP entitled "Illusions" and their second EP "Synthetic", having tremendous positive feedback from fans. The band is currently writing material for its Lifeforce Records debut, to be released on June 19 in North America and this summer in the rest of the world.
Lion Music has announced the signing of DOCKER'S GUILD, the solo project of Douglas R. Docker, the keyboardist for internationally acclaimed melodic rock band BILOXI.
DOCKER'S GUILD's debut album, "The Mystic Technocracy - Season 1: The Age of Ignorance", will be released later in the year.
"The Mystic Technocracy" is described in a press release as "an opera which unfolds over five 'seasons.' The first season, called 'Season I: The Age of Ignorance', sees the participation of worldwide acclaimed musicians like Gregg Bissonette (JOE SATRIANI, DAVID LEE ROTH), Magnus Jacobson, Tony Franklin (BLUE MURDER), Guthrie Govan (ASIA), Jeff Watson (NIGHT RANGER), John Payne (ASIA, GPS), Göran Edman (KARMAKANIC, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN), Amanda Somerville (KISKE/SOMERVILLE), Tony Mills (TNT, SHY) and many others. DOCKER'S GUILD, even if inspired by progressive masters like YES, ELP, DREAM THEATER and GENESIS, lives on its own sounds which is a very personal mixture of progressive roots played and crafted by mainly AOR musicians."
BILOXI's debut, "Let The Games Begin", achieved worldwide success, reaching #10 in the Japanese chart (Burrn! magazine) and #1 in England as the best import CD of 1993 (Kerrang! magazine), as well as garnering an impressive amount of rave reviews worldwide. BILOXI toured the Los Angeles club scene extensively in 1993-1994, regularly headlining and selling out all the legendary Sunset Strip clubs such as the Roxy, the Wiskey A Go Go and the Troubadour, among others. BILOXI then went on a promotional tour in Mississippi which culminated in a headlining a show at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi, Mississippi in January 1994.
"The Mystic Technocracy" is a new and exciting science-fiction story and music project that has been in development for a number of years. It is the fictional outcome of a very simple observation: for 4000 years man has tortured, murdered, waged warfare and committed genocide in the name of the same God worshiped by Christians, Jews and Muslims, the three monotheistic religions. It is not a story against religion, but it is a story about the madness of man when he falls under the influence of fanatical dogmatic faith. This religious premise has then been plugged into a science-fiction universe, in which religion was created by a silicon-based life form, the Mystic Technocracy, in order to control, manipulate and eventually destroy humanity.
If you like TV series and 1930s serials like "Babylon 5", "Space 1999", "Flash Gordon" and "Buck Rogers", this is for you. If you like progressive rock bands like YES, ELP and DREAM THEATER, AOR bands like ASIA and JOURNEY as well as DURAN DURAN, DAVID BOWIE, JARRE and THE ROCKETS, this is also for you. If you have a healthy dislike of fundamentalism, and blind dogmatic faith, and spend lots of time wondering why so much pain and destruction can be generated by religions whose main goal is supposed to be love and compassion, then this is definitely for you.
DOCKER'S GUILD's debut album, "The Mystic Technocracy - Season 1: The Age of Ignorance", will be released later in the year.
"The Mystic Technocracy" is described in a press release as "an opera which unfolds over five 'seasons.' The first season, called 'Season I: The Age of Ignorance', sees the participation of worldwide acclaimed musicians like Gregg Bissonette (JOE SATRIANI, DAVID LEE ROTH), Magnus Jacobson, Tony Franklin (BLUE MURDER), Guthrie Govan (ASIA), Jeff Watson (NIGHT RANGER), John Payne (ASIA, GPS), Göran Edman (KARMAKANIC, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN), Amanda Somerville (KISKE/SOMERVILLE), Tony Mills (TNT, SHY) and many others. DOCKER'S GUILD, even if inspired by progressive masters like YES, ELP, DREAM THEATER and GENESIS, lives on its own sounds which is a very personal mixture of progressive roots played and crafted by mainly AOR musicians."
BILOXI's debut, "Let The Games Begin", achieved worldwide success, reaching #10 in the Japanese chart (Burrn! magazine) and #1 in England as the best import CD of 1993 (Kerrang! magazine), as well as garnering an impressive amount of rave reviews worldwide. BILOXI toured the Los Angeles club scene extensively in 1993-1994, regularly headlining and selling out all the legendary Sunset Strip clubs such as the Roxy, the Wiskey A Go Go and the Troubadour, among others. BILOXI then went on a promotional tour in Mississippi which culminated in a headlining a show at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi, Mississippi in January 1994.
"The Mystic Technocracy" is a new and exciting science-fiction story and music project that has been in development for a number of years. It is the fictional outcome of a very simple observation: for 4000 years man has tortured, murdered, waged warfare and committed genocide in the name of the same God worshiped by Christians, Jews and Muslims, the three monotheistic religions. It is not a story against religion, but it is a story about the madness of man when he falls under the influence of fanatical dogmatic faith. This religious premise has then been plugged into a science-fiction universe, in which religion was created by a silicon-based life form, the Mystic Technocracy, in order to control, manipulate and eventually destroy humanity.
If you like TV series and 1930s serials like "Babylon 5", "Space 1999", "Flash Gordon" and "Buck Rogers", this is for you. If you like progressive rock bands like YES, ELP and DREAM THEATER, AOR bands like ASIA and JOURNEY as well as DURAN DURAN, DAVID BOWIE, JARRE and THE ROCKETS, this is also for you. If you have a healthy dislike of fundamentalism, and blind dogmatic faith, and spend lots of time wondering why so much pain and destruction can be generated by religions whose main goal is supposed to be love and compassion, then this is definitely for you.
Author Blair Gibson released "From The Minds Of Madness: The Origins Of Heavy Metal Band Names" on January 6 through Rymefire Books.
Commented Gibson: "I contacted over 200 bands of various genres of the heavy metal realm and came up with the origins of 234 bands with direct quotes from the bands. I had been contacting these bands for over a year and narrowed it down to these responses. I asked them how they got their name and why they chose it.The book covers all metal genres — from black metal to power metal to thrash metal, and every genre in between."
The "From The Minds Of Madness: The Origins Of Heavy Metal Band Names" foreword was written by Aaron Stainthorpe of MY DYING BRIDE.
The book can be purchased for $2.99 for the eBook version and $12.99 for the printed version. There is also a limited copy of the book (66 copies) for $79.99 which makes the whole book in color.
Regarding how MY DYING BRIDE got its name, Stainthorpe wrote, "The name of the band is inexplicably linked to the death of my mother back in 1988, which plunged my life into complete and inescapable darkness and grief, from which I have yet to fully recover.
"When our group came to fruition, a name was sought and being 1990 the death metal scene was snowballing to greatness so we naturally shunned all the other corpse murdering virgin slaying bible burning nonsense for something much more heart rendering, as that was where our musical outpourings would come.
"With great tragedy so close to me, a name akin to my feelings was required, of lost love and hopeless dreams. Two names were banded about; MY DYING BRIDE or MY DYING CHILD, and BRIDE won out due to the utter forlorn state one would succumb to at such a time; and the fact that I am a diehard romantic lost in 17th century England unable, nay, unwilling to escape to modernity.
"MY DYING BRIDE compose tunes in dark and melancholic ways that leave many a folk whimpering and heart-weary and yet, they always come back for more because as we all know too well, a tear shed is a lesser burden to carry."
Commented Gibson: "I contacted over 200 bands of various genres of the heavy metal realm and came up with the origins of 234 bands with direct quotes from the bands. I had been contacting these bands for over a year and narrowed it down to these responses. I asked them how they got their name and why they chose it.The book covers all metal genres — from black metal to power metal to thrash metal, and every genre in between."
The "From The Minds Of Madness: The Origins Of Heavy Metal Band Names" foreword was written by Aaron Stainthorpe of MY DYING BRIDE.
The book can be purchased for $2.99 for the eBook version and $12.99 for the printed version. There is also a limited copy of the book (66 copies) for $79.99 which makes the whole book in color.
Regarding how MY DYING BRIDE got its name, Stainthorpe wrote, "The name of the band is inexplicably linked to the death of my mother back in 1988, which plunged my life into complete and inescapable darkness and grief, from which I have yet to fully recover.
"When our group came to fruition, a name was sought and being 1990 the death metal scene was snowballing to greatness so we naturally shunned all the other corpse murdering virgin slaying bible burning nonsense for something much more heart rendering, as that was where our musical outpourings would come.
"With great tragedy so close to me, a name akin to my feelings was required, of lost love and hopeless dreams. Two names were banded about; MY DYING BRIDE or MY DYING CHILD, and BRIDE won out due to the utter forlorn state one would succumb to at such a time; and the fact that I am a diehard romantic lost in 17th century England unable, nay, unwilling to escape to modernity.
"MY DYING BRIDE compose tunes in dark and melancholic ways that leave many a folk whimpering and heart-weary and yet, they always come back for more because as we all know too well, a tear shed is a lesser burden to carry."
Kentucky rockers HYDROGYN have set "Private Sessions" as the title of their fourth album, tentatively due this spring. 13 songs were recorded for the CD at guitarist Jeff Westlake's Ridgeline Studio in Ashland, Kentucky and Patrick Liotard's Peek Studio in Boisseron, France.
After months of uncertainty surrounding the band because of singer Julie Westlake's health, the green light was given to Julie and the rest of the band last year to proceed ahead with the new album recordings.
Commented Julie: "This is the quickest we have ever completed a project to date.
"We decided in June that we were going to do another CD after I got clearance from my doctors to get back to work and by August we were in the studio."
For "Private Sessions", things changed up a bit as far as production. For the past two albums, Jeff Westlake handled the production, engineering, mixing, etc., to go along with the writing and song prep. Jeff said he wanted a chance to just worry about the songs on this release with limited production going on from his end. Enter the team of Anthony Dura and Patrick Liotard (who co-wrote the song "Alone" on HYDROGYN's last album, "Judgement"). Anthony and Patrick stepped in and teamed up with Julie and Jeff for this project, not only from a production standpoint but also in the creation of the project itself.
"I love these guys and what they bring to the table," said Julie. "To be able to turn to them and have a new team in the mix for the entire process with fresh ideas and a great perspective as well is just priceless. We were all introduced by our French team at Musiconlights (Mike Jublin) back in 2007 and as time has gone on, we have gotten to know each other. The working part of the relationship is just a natural progression for us all and takes some pressure off Jeff for a change."
A HYDROGYN live CD and a digital-only best-of release called "Phase 1" are also in the works.
As previously reported, former DIO guitarist Tracy "G" Grijalva has joined forces with Julie Westlake to record a collection of songs Tracy had written with Ronnie James Dio for the DIO releases "Strange Highways" and "Angry Machines" along with some of the guitarist's post-DIO material. The recordings are taking place at Tracy's G Factory studios and will include musicians that played on Grijalva's 2011 album, "Controlled Chaos" — Johnny B on drums and vocals and Eddie Frisco on bass. There is also talk of live shows taking place in the Los Angeles area this spring or summer.
"This is a a very ultra cool project that I am honored to be a part of," stated Julie.
After months of uncertainty surrounding the band because of singer Julie Westlake's health, the green light was given to Julie and the rest of the band last year to proceed ahead with the new album recordings.
Commented Julie: "This is the quickest we have ever completed a project to date.
"We decided in June that we were going to do another CD after I got clearance from my doctors to get back to work and by August we were in the studio."
For "Private Sessions", things changed up a bit as far as production. For the past two albums, Jeff Westlake handled the production, engineering, mixing, etc., to go along with the writing and song prep. Jeff said he wanted a chance to just worry about the songs on this release with limited production going on from his end. Enter the team of Anthony Dura and Patrick Liotard (who co-wrote the song "Alone" on HYDROGYN's last album, "Judgement"). Anthony and Patrick stepped in and teamed up with Julie and Jeff for this project, not only from a production standpoint but also in the creation of the project itself.
"I love these guys and what they bring to the table," said Julie. "To be able to turn to them and have a new team in the mix for the entire process with fresh ideas and a great perspective as well is just priceless. We were all introduced by our French team at Musiconlights (Mike Jublin) back in 2007 and as time has gone on, we have gotten to know each other. The working part of the relationship is just a natural progression for us all and takes some pressure off Jeff for a change."
A HYDROGYN live CD and a digital-only best-of release called "Phase 1" are also in the works.
As previously reported, former DIO guitarist Tracy "G" Grijalva has joined forces with Julie Westlake to record a collection of songs Tracy had written with Ronnie James Dio for the DIO releases "Strange Highways" and "Angry Machines" along with some of the guitarist's post-DIO material. The recordings are taking place at Tracy's G Factory studios and will include musicians that played on Grijalva's 2011 album, "Controlled Chaos" — Johnny B on drums and vocals and Eddie Frisco on bass. There is also talk of live shows taking place in the Los Angeles area this spring or summer.
"This is a a very ultra cool project that I am honored to be a part of," stated Julie.
PORTAL, the early 1990s project featuring CYNIC masterminds Paul Masvidal and Sean Reinert alongside guitarist Jason Gobel, bassist Chris Kringel and female vocalist Aruna Abrams, will have its demo recordings officially released as "The Portal Tapes" on March 27 in North America (four days earlier in Europe) in strictly limited editions of 5,000 digipak CDs and 1,000 vinyl LPs via Season Of Mist.
"I never thought this day would come", Masvidal comments. "A couple demos we'd record after [CYNIC's 1993 debut album] 'Focus', under the name PORTAL, would develop a life of their own, and somehow become part of CYNIC's larger discography. As an artist, it's an amazingly unpredictable journey, to see these quiet labors of love, find their way, in their own time."
CYNIC recently released the "Carbon-Based Anatomy" EP, which has been described as "equal parts KING CRIMSON, TOOL, MUSE and ALLAN HOLDSWORTH." It's a 23-minute transcendent musical journey through the fertile musical minds of Masvidal and Reinert.
"I never thought this day would come", Masvidal comments. "A couple demos we'd record after [CYNIC's 1993 debut album] 'Focus', under the name PORTAL, would develop a life of their own, and somehow become part of CYNIC's larger discography. As an artist, it's an amazingly unpredictable journey, to see these quiet labors of love, find their way, in their own time."
CYNIC recently released the "Carbon-Based Anatomy" EP, which has been described as "equal parts KING CRIMSON, TOOL, MUSE and ALLAN HOLDSWORTH." It's a 23-minute transcendent musical journey through the fertile musical minds of Masvidal and Reinert.
T.R.A.M., the new band featuring Adrian Terrazas (THE MARS VOLTA) on saxophone, flute, bass clarinet and percussion, Javier Reyes (ANIMALS AS LEADERS) on guitar, Tosin Abasi (ANIMALS AS LEADERS) on guitar and Eric Moore (SUICIDAL TENDENCIES) on drums, will release its debut album, "Lingua Franca", on February 28 via Sumerian Records.
There is no doubt that Lamb of God are one of the most respected American metal bands of the 2000′s, touring with some of the biggest names in metal. On the 21st of January, they're set to release their 8th studio album "Resolution", and in February/March they will be apart of Soundwave Festival for one of its best line-ups yet. Back in November, Patrick Emmett had a chat to bassist John Campbell about the new album and Soundwave Festival, aswell as previous tours and other bands.
Metal Obsession: Hey John, how's it going?
John Campbell: Hey, it's going okay, 9:30 at night at the east-coast of the US, raining pretty badly y'know, just another night at home.
Metal Obsession: I just got home from school then so I can do this interview, but I've gotta go back straight after it.
John: What are you studying at school?
Metal Obsession: I'm still in the middle of high school, and there's nothing in particular that I'm studying as of yet.
John: Good enough, this should be a very well-rounded interview then!
Metal Obsession: Yes, it should [laughs]. With the lyrics on Resolution, is there any particular theme you tried to go with?
John: Most would be in relation to the title. Well, what happens is, to make a long story short, the songs come together, and we kinda look through the lyrics for specific words and things to try and come up with a title for the record. That's what we did, and it appropriately reflects the themes of the album.
Metal Obsession: I noticed most of the songs on this album were tuned to Drop C# instead of the usual Drop D, why did you want a lower tuning for this album?
John: That is an amazing observation; most journalists wouldn't take notice of the tunings we were in. It was definitely a conscious thing, y'know, dropping it down another half step because it's chronically heavier. We just thought it sounded badass, and a couple of songs sounded appropriate in C#. I don't know if you've noticed, but the very opening track is actually tuned to Drop C.
Metal Obsession: Yeah, I noticed that one was even lower.
John: Are you a musician?
Metal Obsession: I play guitar, I'm not great at it yet, but I'm good with telling what tuning a song is in, or learning riffs by ear.
John: That's a gift man.
Metal Obsession: It is. What makes you feel like this is the best Lamb of God album yet?
John: Well if you think about it logically, we have been for a long time so we've got better at doing this. But it's ah, we've learned lessons along the way that we've actually used, and when bringing out a new record, we're not interested in bringing out the same record we did before. To stretch and try new things and try to evolve as a band has always been what we've aimed for when we've gone to write and put out a new record.
But what makes it better? Specifically, I couldn't really put my finger on it, but being very involved with all the recordings we have done, this is my absolute favourite and most challenging group of songs we've put together.
Metal Obsession: To be honest, I think it's the best Lamb of God album yet.
John: Well I appreciate you for giving me feedback on the album. Have you got a favourite song at this point?
Metal Obsession: My favourites would be The Number Six or Ghost Walking.
John: I love Ghost Walking. The beginning of the song with the acoustic guitar, and then when the band comes in, it's such a brutal hit! That's one of my favourite songs on the album.
Metal Obsession: That's my favourite part as well, so heavy!
Next year will be your second appearance at Soundwave Festival, and you have also been on a few tours down here in the past as well. What are you most looking forward to next year, is there anything from your previous times in Australia that you never got to do.
Next year will be your second appearance at Soundwave Festival, and you have also been on a few tours down here in the past as well. What are you most looking forward to next year, is there anything from your previous times in Australia that you never got to do.
John: To be honest, the last time we were here was with Metallica, and we played multiple shows in each city. That was amazing; to be able to spend a couple of days in each city in Australia was a gift. We absolutely love Australia; the people, the land, it's really an amazing place to be able to visit, and [laughs] I hope Metallica comes calling again, because spending a week in each city with them was great.
I don't know if there's anything specific that we want to do, when we hit the road we're working as hard as we can to play as many shows, so there's really not much time. But if I could, when we come back to Australia, I would get on another motorcycle and cruise around Melbourne, that'd be great.
Metal Obsession: I got to see you twice last year on the Metallica tour, and that was an awesome concert! I can't wait to see you again at Soundwave Festival.
John: Awesome. The Metallica show was great. The stage was a little awkward, but we got used to it after a while, because we toured with them for I think 4 months, for the last tour legs. It was amazing to have the opportunity to meet those guys and play shows with them, but I look forward to hittin' Soundwave again. The headliners get a little more action on the PA, but when you play with Metallica there's no huge difference on the volume.
Metal Obsession: The Big 4 of thrash metal tour has been happening for over a year now, and there have been recent talks for a Classic 4 tour with Iron Maiden, Motorhead, Judas Priest and Black Sabbath. If you were to organise a Big 4 tour with the New Wave of American Metal, what bands would it be with?
John: Oh wow! [laughs] That is a very difficult question to answer. I would probably say, I would like to tour with Mastodon. Everytime we've played shows with them, I've had an awesome time, I love those dudes, they're a great bunch of guys, and good guys to travel with. The dudes at Unearth are again a great band and also great guys, so we'd tour with them. So we're upto 3 bands on the bill… Wow you've really tested me [laughs], lets throw Gojira in there, just to keep things heavy and not too sounding the same.
Metal Obsession: Over the years, which band member has caused the most trouble on and off the road?
John: Oh, lord; we take our turns to be honest. Wow, you're really asking me to name names here, aren't you? Well we all take our turns, we all have our difficult sides to our personalities and we all take turns of being the bad guy. We've been doing this together for quite some time and we've learnt about our bad sides, it's all secondary to the time that we get up there and play a set. Despite our differences and those sorts of things, we're there to play a set and that's what we do well, because we really love to do it.
Metal Obsession: I read over a few YouTube videos that Lamb of God was banned from calling the wall of death at shows. What fuelled up this rumour, and is it true?
John: Oh, there is no truth to the rumour. It was two-thousand and… 4? 7? Fuck I don't remember, but we played at Ozzfest, I'm sure you're familiar with what it is; it's sort of like Soundwave. A few days in, Ozzfest had video of a wall of death going on and they put it up on the website. Their insurers saw that, and said "Wait a minute, these guys can't do this, are you kidding me? You can't have insurance if they're gunna do it." So we were told that we can't provoke the crowd to kill each other basically.
There were people getting seriously hurt, as Randy directed the crowd, and we felt a little uncomfortable with that. We still play the song that the people do the wall of death to, and people who are fans that have been waiting to do that for weeks and months are still gunna go ahead and do that when the song comes up. That is pretty much the truth behind that rumour.
Metal Obsession: I asked the last band I interviewed this question, and I wanted to ask you aswell. About a month or two ago, there was an article in Australia's biggest newspaper The Herald Sun, and it showed a study saying "TEENAGERS listening to head-banging heavy metal music are at risk of depression and suicide." Personally, I think its bullshit, but I wanted to get your opinion on it?
John: Well, I'm not a psychologist, or a professional mental health person, but I would guess that heavy metal is a rebellious type of music. People who are rebellious are generally younger, and I believe that people suffering from depression and those sorts of things, it becomes much more serious once they get some age on them.
I think that drawing the cause of effects between music and depression/suicide is no big deal, but I do think there is a correlation in the type of people who are kind of drawn to heavy metal music, are pre-disposed to that sort of behaviour already. So if they were trying to lay the blame on the music, I think that is ridiculous and sensational. While it's certainly something that they're talking about, because it's a human condition that, if you have suffered from it yourself I'm sure you'd know how bad it is. Depression is a serious thing and shouldn't be taken lightly.
Metal Obsession: I know that you're a gaming fan, have you played any of the new games out like Battlefield 3, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 or Skyrim? What one is your favourite?
John: I have not. I've had to kinda hang out and do things a little bit. I'm more of a family man now, I've got two children and once my son got old enough to kind of realise what was happening on the screen with the video games, I had to give up with all the bloody, brutal games. But these games are very close to my heart, I love these sorts of things, I don't even have an Xbox anymore, I have a Wii. They released Call of Duty out on the Wii and I had a mess around with that a little bit.
I'm not as hardcore of a gamer as I used to be, and I unfortunately haven't had a chance to play any of the very new games. I actually have a copy of Modern Warfare 3 sitting in my house for Xbox, I just have to figure out which one of my friends have an Xbox, so I can make some free time getting over to their place and check it out.
Metal Obsession: You have toured with many of the biggest names in old and new metal over the years, what band was your favourite to tour with and why?
John: Well I guess I might be repeating myself a little bit but, Mastodon is probably my absolute favourite band to tour with. Two of their guys was in the studio when we recorded the Burn the Priest record, because they were playing in the band with the guy who recorded it. So we met those guys a long time ago, and they're doing the same thing we are in a lot of ways, and I feel like brothers with these guys. So without a doubt for me, playing shows with Mastodon is more than a pleasure, they're one of my absolute favourite bands to tour with.
Metal Obsession: What advice would you give to people wanting to start a band?
John: Get it going man, c'mon, quit wasting time and go get those instruments and start practicing. Focus on having a good time and writing the best music that you can. The most important piece of advice I could give to anyone doing that is, don't for a second consider that this is going to pay your bills, because there are very, very, VERY few people who actually pull that off. So if that's what your goal is, then best of luck to you, you're probably just as well off trying to win the lottery. But if you're getting into it to have fun and make music, then go for it!
Metal Obsession: It's been a pleasure talking to you, is there anything else you'd like to say?
John: I really appreciate you taking the time to chat with me and put the word out. We are VERY stoked to get back to Australia, which is absolutely our favourite country to tour in other than our own, only because of the distances. What time is it right there?
Metal Obsession: It's 1:51pm here.
John: What city are you in?
Metal Obsession: Geelong, about an hour out of Melbourne.
John: I think I've seen the signs on the highway for Geelong. Anyway, we are really excited to get back to Australia, it's absolutely one of our favourite places to tour; the people, the country, and it's just a beautiful place.
Metal Obsession: Well thanks for the talk mate; I'll see you at Soundwave!
John: Talk soon; be good, we'll see you in a few months!
Heavy music innovators PRONG have set "Carved Into Stone" as the title of their new album, due later in the year via Long Branch Records/SPV. The CD is currently being recorded with producer Steve Evetts, who has previously worked with THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN, SYMPHONY X, SEPULTURA and HATEBREED, among others.
According to a press release, "Carved Into Stone" "is quintessentially PRONG. It stretches into the band's earliest and dirtiest foundations on which the band was founded on New York's Lower East Side to the present as a staple of today's post-metal and rock scenes."
Comments PRONG guitarist, vocalist and founder Tommy Victor: "It was hardest I've ever worked in the studio on any record I've ever been involved with."
PRONG — whose lineup is rounded out by bassist Tony Campos and drummer Alexei Rodriguez — has taken a major step forward in their constantly evolving brand of sonic schematics.
"I always believed there were many dimensions to PRONG," says Tommy. "Every record we've been associated with different scenes — hardcore, metal, industrial — even dance! I think this record brings all of that together and sounds very modern at the same time."
Founded in 1986, PRONG is considered to be a pioneer of the American post-hardcore and post-metal scenes whose influence is still being felt today.
In an October 2009 interview with Target Audience, Victor stated about the songwriting process for PRONG's next album, "The earlier batch was not like 'Power of the Damager' material. Just to be more general, it was more of a reach towards the 'Rude Awakening' or KILLING JOKE-type material. Then I came up with a couple of, like, you know, brutal thrash ideas and then some other ideas for, uh, total riff rock — like not like modern. I think they sort of go back into the 'Cleansing' era where it was based on GODFLESH or something and then I'll have too see…I've started attacking the riffs again and seem to be in that vein of BLACK SABBATH-oriented or more than we've done. I think it's gonna be cool eventually. It's just like getting the right ideas finding out where we're out going and like throwin' 'em all together and taking a look at it."
He added, "It's all about songs. I mean, PRONG is a songwriting band, ya know? That's why it takes so long, because we just don't go in and have this formula of patterns and, ya know, or just record some really heavy stuff and scream all over it; I have to figure out a lyrical concept and a lyrical line and the lyrics. And I gotta do all that and then, of course, solos and there's a lot on me on the whole thing, unfortunately."
PRONG's last release was "Power Of The Damn Mixxxer", the remix counterpart to the band's 2007 album "Power of The Damager". Victor previously stated about the collection, "We are really excited about this remix compilation of 'Power Of The Damager' material. We feel the LP was overlooked and in some cases ignored. But the added elements provided by the great remixers, producers, and deejays infused with all the tracks make 'Power Of The Damn Mixxxer' an interesting yet enjoyable listening experience."
According to a press release, "Carved Into Stone" "is quintessentially PRONG. It stretches into the band's earliest and dirtiest foundations on which the band was founded on New York's Lower East Side to the present as a staple of today's post-metal and rock scenes."
Comments PRONG guitarist, vocalist and founder Tommy Victor: "It was hardest I've ever worked in the studio on any record I've ever been involved with."
PRONG — whose lineup is rounded out by bassist Tony Campos and drummer Alexei Rodriguez — has taken a major step forward in their constantly evolving brand of sonic schematics.
"I always believed there were many dimensions to PRONG," says Tommy. "Every record we've been associated with different scenes — hardcore, metal, industrial — even dance! I think this record brings all of that together and sounds very modern at the same time."
Founded in 1986, PRONG is considered to be a pioneer of the American post-hardcore and post-metal scenes whose influence is still being felt today.
In an October 2009 interview with Target Audience, Victor stated about the songwriting process for PRONG's next album, "The earlier batch was not like 'Power of the Damager' material. Just to be more general, it was more of a reach towards the 'Rude Awakening' or KILLING JOKE-type material. Then I came up with a couple of, like, you know, brutal thrash ideas and then some other ideas for, uh, total riff rock — like not like modern. I think they sort of go back into the 'Cleansing' era where it was based on GODFLESH or something and then I'll have too see…I've started attacking the riffs again and seem to be in that vein of BLACK SABBATH-oriented or more than we've done. I think it's gonna be cool eventually. It's just like getting the right ideas finding out where we're out going and like throwin' 'em all together and taking a look at it."
He added, "It's all about songs. I mean, PRONG is a songwriting band, ya know? That's why it takes so long, because we just don't go in and have this formula of patterns and, ya know, or just record some really heavy stuff and scream all over it; I have to figure out a lyrical concept and a lyrical line and the lyrics. And I gotta do all that and then, of course, solos and there's a lot on me on the whole thing, unfortunately."
PRONG's last release was "Power Of The Damn Mixxxer", the remix counterpart to the band's 2007 album "Power of The Damager". Victor previously stated about the collection, "We are really excited about this remix compilation of 'Power Of The Damager' material. We feel the LP was overlooked and in some cases ignored. But the added elements provided by the great remixers, producers, and deejays infused with all the tracks make 'Power Of The Damn Mixxxer' an interesting yet enjoyable listening experience."
Knoxville, Tennessee-based female-fronted metal/hardcore act STRAIGHT LINE STITCH has parted ways with drummer Kanky Lora.
Commented Lora in a statement: "I have decided to step away from STRAIGHT LINE STITCH. I actually made this decision and informed the band of my departure, after our last European tour. And now with the New Year and a fresh start, I feel now is the best time to show this to the public.
"Obviously, there are many reasons behind this decision, but none that I feel the need to discuss since I would like to leave in good faith.
"I will always cherish the countless memories, good and bad, and will always be thankful for all of the great experiences that I've had with the band.
"Thank you to all the fans for your generous support and God bless you all. I wish nothing but the best and good luck to the band and their future members.
"As of right now, Im still producing and engineering and had a few offers for touirng already so I will be hitting the road soon. I'm still looking to join another band full-time as well."
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH's sophomore album, "The Fight Of Our Lives", sold around 2,700 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 5 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.
The follow-up to 2008's "When Skies Wash Ashore", "The Fight Of Our Lives" was produced and mixed by the Grammy Award-nominated producer Johnny K (DISTURBED, MACHINE HEAD, SEVENDUST) and includes eleven new songs. Additional work on the album was done by Ben Schigel.
Commented Lora in a statement: "I have decided to step away from STRAIGHT LINE STITCH. I actually made this decision and informed the band of my departure, after our last European tour. And now with the New Year and a fresh start, I feel now is the best time to show this to the public.
"Obviously, there are many reasons behind this decision, but none that I feel the need to discuss since I would like to leave in good faith.
"I will always cherish the countless memories, good and bad, and will always be thankful for all of the great experiences that I've had with the band.
"Thank you to all the fans for your generous support and God bless you all. I wish nothing but the best and good luck to the band and their future members.
"As of right now, Im still producing and engineering and had a few offers for touirng already so I will be hitting the road soon. I'm still looking to join another band full-time as well."
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH's sophomore album, "The Fight Of Our Lives", sold around 2,700 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 5 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.
The follow-up to 2008's "When Skies Wash Ashore", "The Fight Of Our Lives" was produced and mixed by the Grammy Award-nominated producer Johnny K (DISTURBED, MACHINE HEAD, SEVENDUST) and includes eleven new songs. Additional work on the album was done by Ben Schigel.
Welsh shock rockers TIGERTAILZ have parted ways with bassist Sarah Firebrand.
Commented the band: "It's with a heavy heart that we have to inform you that we've decided to part company with Sarah.
"The last thing the band needed right now was another lineup change... But, unfortunately, as a band we're just not functioning and a change was needed to move forward. It's unfortunate, but keeping a band going year-on-year isn't easy and sometimes difficult decisions have to be made.
"We would like to thank Sarah for all she's done and wish her all the best for the future.
"Our priority is the longevity of TIGERTAILZ and to raise as much money as possible for the Amser Justin Time charity, which helps people suffering from pancreatic cancer. With this in mind, we'll be announcing a new bass player as soon as possible and resuming touring duties.
"Thanks to you all for your fantastic support and let's keep the faith."
TIGERTAILZ last year announced the return of drummer Ace Finchum to the band. The addition of Ace, who last played with TIGERTAILZ in the early 1990s, reunites all surviving members of the group's "classic" lineup.
Shooting to fame in 1990 on the back of big-selling second album "Bezerk" and a string of hit singles, magazine covers and videos, the band won all the plaudits going for their bombastic, lion-hearted rock anthems — songs that are still played and loved all over the world today.
Getting back together in 2005, they were struck by tragedy when bassist and co-founder Pepsi Tate died from cancer in 2007. Fighting back with the usual 'TAILZ spirit, the band regrouped with bass player Sarah Firebrand and drummer Robin Guy in 2010, and headlined the opening night of the U.K.'s Hard Rock Hell, a performance that sold out months in advance.
TIGERTAILZ released a new live album, "Bezerk Live - Burnin' Fuel", in January 2011 via TT/Cargo Records.
Commented the band: "It's with a heavy heart that we have to inform you that we've decided to part company with Sarah.
"The last thing the band needed right now was another lineup change... But, unfortunately, as a band we're just not functioning and a change was needed to move forward. It's unfortunate, but keeping a band going year-on-year isn't easy and sometimes difficult decisions have to be made.
"We would like to thank Sarah for all she's done and wish her all the best for the future.
"Our priority is the longevity of TIGERTAILZ and to raise as much money as possible for the Amser Justin Time charity, which helps people suffering from pancreatic cancer. With this in mind, we'll be announcing a new bass player as soon as possible and resuming touring duties.
"Thanks to you all for your fantastic support and let's keep the faith."
TIGERTAILZ last year announced the return of drummer Ace Finchum to the band. The addition of Ace, who last played with TIGERTAILZ in the early 1990s, reunites all surviving members of the group's "classic" lineup.
Shooting to fame in 1990 on the back of big-selling second album "Bezerk" and a string of hit singles, magazine covers and videos, the band won all the plaudits going for their bombastic, lion-hearted rock anthems — songs that are still played and loved all over the world today.
Getting back together in 2005, they were struck by tragedy when bassist and co-founder Pepsi Tate died from cancer in 2007. Fighting back with the usual 'TAILZ spirit, the band regrouped with bass player Sarah Firebrand and drummer Robin Guy in 2010, and headlined the opening night of the U.K.'s Hard Rock Hell, a performance that sold out months in advance.
TIGERTAILZ released a new live album, "Bezerk Live - Burnin' Fuel", in January 2011 via TT/Cargo Records.
British female singer Sarah Jezebel Deva — who has toured and/or recorded with CRADLE OF FILTH, THERION, MORTIIS and ANGTORIA — has finished laying down vocals on CRADLE OF FILTH's new orchestral album, "Midnight In The Labyrinth".
"I have to admit, I have learnt a lot from doing this new CRADLE OF FILTH album," Sarah writes on her Facebook page. "I have learnt not everything is as simple as I think it is, that I should forgive/forget more often, that I should never use the word 'never' again when it comes to music and regading visiting the past.
"I am happy I was asked to take part in this project and maybe your heart ruling your head really isn't so bad after all.
"I have no idea how this album will be mixed, but I hope some of you pick up a copy, because 'Midnight In The Labyrinth' is extremely well executed, by all involved.
"The whole experience was a little emotional for me, actually, but I have walked away a happy old lady."
Deva left in CRADLE OF FILTH in 2008 "to pursue a life in Australia, bum some kangaroos and to go it alone as a solo musician," she said.
CRADLE OF FILTH frontman Dani "Filth" Davey previously stated that "Midnight In The Labyrinth" would feature "nine classic CRADLE tunes reinvented as orchestral compositions." He added, "This is no elevator music (or indeed the theme music to 'Schindler's Lift'!), this is a full-on horror film soundtrack in the vein of Danny Elfman, Christopher Young or Jerry Goldsmith. Musical scores to whittle away the evil winter months to…"
Tentatively due in April, "Midnight In The Labyrinth" will feature the following track listing (not final sequence):
* The Forest Whispers My Name
* The Twisted Nails Of Faith
* Summer Dying Fast
* The Rape And Ruin Of Angels (Hosannas In Extremis)
* Funeral In Carpathia
* Thirteen Autumns And A Widow
* A Gothic Romance (Red Roses For The Devil's Whore)
* Cruelty Brought Thee Orchids
* Dusk And Her Embrace
"I have to admit, I have learnt a lot from doing this new CRADLE OF FILTH album," Sarah writes on her Facebook page. "I have learnt not everything is as simple as I think it is, that I should forgive/forget more often, that I should never use the word 'never' again when it comes to music and regading visiting the past.
"I am happy I was asked to take part in this project and maybe your heart ruling your head really isn't so bad after all.
"I have no idea how this album will be mixed, but I hope some of you pick up a copy, because 'Midnight In The Labyrinth' is extremely well executed, by all involved.
"The whole experience was a little emotional for me, actually, but I have walked away a happy old lady."
Deva left in CRADLE OF FILTH in 2008 "to pursue a life in Australia, bum some kangaroos and to go it alone as a solo musician," she said.
CRADLE OF FILTH frontman Dani "Filth" Davey previously stated that "Midnight In The Labyrinth" would feature "nine classic CRADLE tunes reinvented as orchestral compositions." He added, "This is no elevator music (or indeed the theme music to 'Schindler's Lift'!), this is a full-on horror film soundtrack in the vein of Danny Elfman, Christopher Young or Jerry Goldsmith. Musical scores to whittle away the evil winter months to…"
Tentatively due in April, "Midnight In The Labyrinth" will feature the following track listing (not final sequence):
* The Forest Whispers My Name
* The Twisted Nails Of Faith
* Summer Dying Fast
* The Rape And Ruin Of Angels (Hosannas In Extremis)
* Funeral In Carpathia
* Thirteen Autumns And A Widow
* A Gothic Romance (Red Roses For The Devil's Whore)
* Cruelty Brought Thee Orchids
* Dusk And Her Embrace
On Saturday, January 7, the metal community took another step in dealing with the tragic death of longtime GWAR guitarist Cory Smoot by holding the first of two events in a three-show schedule of shows designed to support the Smoot Family Fund and honor the life of this prolific artist, who died of a heart attack this past November at the age of only 34.
Cory had played the role of Flattus Maximus in the world's most infamous band for eleven years, as well as participated in many side projects, while at the same time producing and engineering tons of records at his always busy Karma Studios. In doing so he had become a treasured part of the local and national metal scene, and they turned out in force to both events, opening their hearts to Cory's family in a completely selfless display of solidarity, respect, and generosity.
Cory's widow, Jaime, who is pregnant with Cory's child, had this message for the fans: "I want to sincerely thank ALL the friends and fans for their amazing donations and support!! Thanks to Eve and Brent for organizing the events, to the businesses that contributed raffle prizes, and to the venues and bands for making the shows awesome!! You guys made Cory, the baby and me very proud!"
Show highlights included LAMB OF GOD lead singer Randy Blythe singing for thrashers CANNABIS CORPSE. Blythe was later joined by MUNICIPAL WASTE lead singer Tony Foresta in shearing off five years of hair from GWAR lead singer Dave Brockie's head, which was raffled off to a lucky winner but ended up everywhere. But the most stirring performance came from Cory's band mates MENSREA, who pulled themselves together for a powerful and emotional tribute to the life of this truly amazing man.
The show Saturday night at the Canal Club was also the CD release party for Cory's solo record, "When Worlds Collide", which will be coming out on Metal Blade Records soon. The next planned event is on Friday, March 16 when GWAR, MUNICIPAL WASTE, and GHOUL will play at the National Theater. All funds raised at the show will go to the Smoot Family Fund.
Cory had played the role of Flattus Maximus in the world's most infamous band for eleven years, as well as participated in many side projects, while at the same time producing and engineering tons of records at his always busy Karma Studios. In doing so he had become a treasured part of the local and national metal scene, and they turned out in force to both events, opening their hearts to Cory's family in a completely selfless display of solidarity, respect, and generosity.
Cory's widow, Jaime, who is pregnant with Cory's child, had this message for the fans: "I want to sincerely thank ALL the friends and fans for their amazing donations and support!! Thanks to Eve and Brent for organizing the events, to the businesses that contributed raffle prizes, and to the venues and bands for making the shows awesome!! You guys made Cory, the baby and me very proud!"
Show highlights included LAMB OF GOD lead singer Randy Blythe singing for thrashers CANNABIS CORPSE. Blythe was later joined by MUNICIPAL WASTE lead singer Tony Foresta in shearing off five years of hair from GWAR lead singer Dave Brockie's head, which was raffled off to a lucky winner but ended up everywhere. But the most stirring performance came from Cory's band mates MENSREA, who pulled themselves together for a powerful and emotional tribute to the life of this truly amazing man.
The show Saturday night at the Canal Club was also the CD release party for Cory's solo record, "When Worlds Collide", which will be coming out on Metal Blade Records soon. The next planned event is on Friday, March 16 when GWAR, MUNICIPAL WASTE, and GHOUL will play at the National Theater. All funds raised at the show will go to the Smoot Family Fund.
Long-defunct seminal Swedish hardcore band REFUSED will reunite for an appearance at this year's Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, to be held for the first time over two consecutive weeks in mid-April.
Coachella, run by AEG-owned concert promoter Goldenvoice, will be held over two consecutive weekends, the first on April 13-15 and the second on April 20-22. Each weekend is a separate ticket. Paul Tollett, who heads Goldenvoice and has organized the festival since its 1999 inception, told the Los Angeles Times last year that the expansion was in reaction to the increased demand for tickets.
REFUSED was only together seven years (from 1991 to 1998), but released three full-length albums before calling it quits. Their "The Shape Of Punk To Come" LP is considered one of the best punk albums ever.
The members of REFUSED released the following statement earlier today regarding their decision to reunite for this year's Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival:
"We had a band once, in Umeå. We would pile in a van, like every other punkband, and thunder off in pursuit of friends and glory in some basement in front of 20 people, 50 people, in towns 4-5 hours away. Sometimes there would be more than a hundred people and we would later in the week refer to that as a 'big show.' We were ambitious, but we didn't think of it as a career.
"We never made any fiscal sense whatsoever during seven years of touring. Like most punk bands, it never occured to us to even try. We had a scene, we had some politics and we had just a hint of artistic ambition. True to our Swedish roots, we got very serious very fast. And then suddenly we got good. It's a delicate path to tread for precocious twentysomethings anywhere on the planet, but this particular bunch didn't make it. And that was fine. Most enterprises in life are unrelated to incredibly violent rock music.
"It's been a motley 14 years since our band came apart. We've all kept busy in our respective endeavors, but we've all remained friends and kept in touch. There have been offers, and lots of jokes about these offers. We've sort of looked down from our high horses and made fun of people who've just wanted to share the psychopathic intensity that we would deliver on a nightly basis in our post-pubescent prime. A reunion has just seemed irrelevant to us. Too much other shit to do.
"But then Kristofer [Steen, bass] got his degree from the Swedish opera academy, Jon's [Brännström, guitar] medical studies began drawing to a close and Dennis [Lyxzén, vocals] and David [Sandström, drums] started a new hardcore band together. Finally, after a decade-and-a-half hiatus, Kristofer picked up the guitar again. Which made David want to play the drums again. Which in turn led to all four of us suddenly making new music in assorted constellations.
"As all this was brewing, Coachella got in touch. There were a couple of phone calls, lots of skepticism, some hesitant enthusiasm before one of us basically said, 'This is ridiculous. There are friends of ours who would murder close relatives just to go see bands there. Let's just do it, one last time.' And with that, socialist fag-loving PC scumbags were on the road again.
"We never did 'The Shape Of Punk To Come' justice back when it came out; too tangled up in petty internal bickering to really focus on the job. And suddenly there's this possibility to do it like it was intended.
"We wanna do it over, do it right. For the people who've kept the music alive through the years, but also for our own sakes. We feel that you deserve it and we hope the feeling is mutual.
"See you in the pit."
Two years ago, REFUSED lead singer Dennis Lyxzén told Excite in an interview, "To be in that band is one of those things that half the time I'm sympathetic and understanding towards why people would do it. The other half, it's just such a useless maneuver. It's a defeatist attitude but if your objective is to play music with your friends and have a good time, there's no harm in reuniting your band for a couple of shows. For us, there have always been so many other aspects of what we did, that it always felt like a complete no-no. You can't do that shit. MINOR THREAT never got back together. That's kind of our take on it. With some things, the legend is better than the actual thing."
REFUSED's legacy was chronicled via the "Refused Are Fucking Dead" collection, which featured never-before-seen material and videos. In addition, REFUSED's landmark 1998 album, "The Shape Of Punk To Come", was remixed and remastered in 5.1 surround DVD audio format, and was re-released through Epitaph Records. Also re-released were remastered editions of REFUSED's "Songs To Fan The Flames Of Discontent" and "The EP Compilation" CDs.
Coachella, run by AEG-owned concert promoter Goldenvoice, will be held over two consecutive weekends, the first on April 13-15 and the second on April 20-22. Each weekend is a separate ticket. Paul Tollett, who heads Goldenvoice and has organized the festival since its 1999 inception, told the Los Angeles Times last year that the expansion was in reaction to the increased demand for tickets.
REFUSED was only together seven years (from 1991 to 1998), but released three full-length albums before calling it quits. Their "The Shape Of Punk To Come" LP is considered one of the best punk albums ever.
The members of REFUSED released the following statement earlier today regarding their decision to reunite for this year's Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival:
"We had a band once, in Umeå. We would pile in a van, like every other punkband, and thunder off in pursuit of friends and glory in some basement in front of 20 people, 50 people, in towns 4-5 hours away. Sometimes there would be more than a hundred people and we would later in the week refer to that as a 'big show.' We were ambitious, but we didn't think of it as a career.
"We never made any fiscal sense whatsoever during seven years of touring. Like most punk bands, it never occured to us to even try. We had a scene, we had some politics and we had just a hint of artistic ambition. True to our Swedish roots, we got very serious very fast. And then suddenly we got good. It's a delicate path to tread for precocious twentysomethings anywhere on the planet, but this particular bunch didn't make it. And that was fine. Most enterprises in life are unrelated to incredibly violent rock music.
"It's been a motley 14 years since our band came apart. We've all kept busy in our respective endeavors, but we've all remained friends and kept in touch. There have been offers, and lots of jokes about these offers. We've sort of looked down from our high horses and made fun of people who've just wanted to share the psychopathic intensity that we would deliver on a nightly basis in our post-pubescent prime. A reunion has just seemed irrelevant to us. Too much other shit to do.
"But then Kristofer [Steen, bass] got his degree from the Swedish opera academy, Jon's [Brännström, guitar] medical studies began drawing to a close and Dennis [Lyxzén, vocals] and David [Sandström, drums] started a new hardcore band together. Finally, after a decade-and-a-half hiatus, Kristofer picked up the guitar again. Which made David want to play the drums again. Which in turn led to all four of us suddenly making new music in assorted constellations.
"As all this was brewing, Coachella got in touch. There were a couple of phone calls, lots of skepticism, some hesitant enthusiasm before one of us basically said, 'This is ridiculous. There are friends of ours who would murder close relatives just to go see bands there. Let's just do it, one last time.' And with that, socialist fag-loving PC scumbags were on the road again.
"We never did 'The Shape Of Punk To Come' justice back when it came out; too tangled up in petty internal bickering to really focus on the job. And suddenly there's this possibility to do it like it was intended.
"We wanna do it over, do it right. For the people who've kept the music alive through the years, but also for our own sakes. We feel that you deserve it and we hope the feeling is mutual.
"See you in the pit."
Two years ago, REFUSED lead singer Dennis Lyxzén told Excite in an interview, "To be in that band is one of those things that half the time I'm sympathetic and understanding towards why people would do it. The other half, it's just such a useless maneuver. It's a defeatist attitude but if your objective is to play music with your friends and have a good time, there's no harm in reuniting your band for a couple of shows. For us, there have always been so many other aspects of what we did, that it always felt like a complete no-no. You can't do that shit. MINOR THREAT never got back together. That's kind of our take on it. With some things, the legend is better than the actual thing."
REFUSED's legacy was chronicled via the "Refused Are Fucking Dead" collection, which featured never-before-seen material and videos. In addition, REFUSED's landmark 1998 album, "The Shape Of Punk To Come", was remixed and remastered in 5.1 surround DVD audio format, and was re-released through Epitaph Records. Also re-released were remastered editions of REFUSED's "Songs To Fan The Flames Of Discontent" and "The EP Compilation" CDs.
Massachusetts metallers ALL THAT REMAINS have officially commenced the songwriting sessions for their next album. The band is once again working with KILLSWITCH ENGAGE guitarist Adam Dutkiewicz, who also helmed ALL THAT REMAINS' latest album, 2010's "For We Are Many", as well as 2004's "This Darkened Heart" and 2006's "The Fall of Ideals".
ALL THAT REMAINS's "The Last Time" video (directed by Nathan Cox) was recently added to MTV2. The clip was filmed on January 30, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois with director Nathan "Karma" Cox (LINKIN PARK, BLACK VEIL BRIDES, MARILYN MANSON). The song comes off "For We Are Many", which debuted at No. 10 on The Billboard 200 chart while also coming in at No. 1 on the Hard Music Albums chart.
A new ALL THAT REMAINS single, "The Waiting One", impacted radio the week of November 8, 2011.
"For We Are Many" sold 29,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The band's previous CD, "Overcome", opened with just under 29,000 units in September 2008 to enter The Billboard 200 chart at No. 16.
"For We Are Many" was released through a joint venture between Prosthetic Records and Razor & Tie. The CD was recorded last spring at Zing Studios in Massachusetts and produced by KILLSWITCH ENGAGE guitarist Adam Dutkiewicz, who also helmed ALL THAT REMAINS' "This Darkened Heart" and "The Fall of Ideals".
ALL THAT REMAINS's "The Last Time" video (directed by Nathan Cox) was recently added to MTV2. The clip was filmed on January 30, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois with director Nathan "Karma" Cox (LINKIN PARK, BLACK VEIL BRIDES, MARILYN MANSON). The song comes off "For We Are Many", which debuted at No. 10 on The Billboard 200 chart while also coming in at No. 1 on the Hard Music Albums chart.
A new ALL THAT REMAINS single, "The Waiting One", impacted radio the week of November 8, 2011.
"For We Are Many" sold 29,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The band's previous CD, "Overcome", opened with just under 29,000 units in September 2008 to enter The Billboard 200 chart at No. 16.
"For We Are Many" was released through a joint venture between Prosthetic Records and Razor & Tie. The CD was recorded last spring at Zing Studios in Massachusetts and produced by KILLSWITCH ENGAGE guitarist Adam Dutkiewicz, who also helmed ALL THAT REMAINS' "This Darkened Heart" and "The Fall of Ideals".
THIS ENDING, the Swedish death metal band featuring AMON AMARTH drummer Fredrik Andersson, has completed work on a new three-song EP titled "Systematic Worship". The effort was recorded during late 2011 at guitarist Linus Nirbrant's studio Audiohammer, which the band calls "an environment where we are used to rehearse, so it's been the most natural and organic recording for us. This has allowed us to not only deliver more of the same THIS ENDING that our fans have come to appreciate, but also experiment with some new stuff that we hope you'll enjoy as well."
"Systematic Worship" will be released on all official web pages in digital format one song at a time, starting in a matter of days.
"Systematic Worship" track listing
01. Our Creation
02. Army Of (N)one
03. No More Silence
THIS ENDING's second album, "Dead Harvest", was released in January 2009 via Metal Blade Records.
THIS ENDING is:
Mårten Hansen - vocals
Leo Pignon - guitar
Linus Nirbrant - guitar
Jesper Löfgren - bass
Fredrik Andersson – drums
Formed in 2005, THIS ENDING existed in a previous incarnation as A CANOROUS QUINTET. After several years of absence from the metal scene the guys decided that the time was right for a new era. Members of the band are/have been active in the following acts: AMON AMARTH, GUIDANCE OF SIN, NIDEN DIV. 187 and SINS OF OMISSION, among others.
"Systematic Worship" will be released on all official web pages in digital format one song at a time, starting in a matter of days.
"Systematic Worship" track listing
01. Our Creation
02. Army Of (N)one
03. No More Silence
THIS ENDING's second album, "Dead Harvest", was released in January 2009 via Metal Blade Records.
THIS ENDING is:
Mårten Hansen - vocals
Leo Pignon - guitar
Linus Nirbrant - guitar
Jesper Löfgren - bass
Fredrik Andersson – drums
Formed in 2005, THIS ENDING existed in a previous incarnation as A CANOROUS QUINTET. After several years of absence from the metal scene the guys decided that the time was right for a new era. Members of the band are/have been active in the following acts: AMON AMARTH, GUIDANCE OF SIN, NIDEN DIV. 187 and SINS OF OMISSION, among others.
On August 6, 2010, Stockholm, Sweden-based melodic death metallers DEGRADEAD played for their first time at the Wacken Open Air festival in Wacken. Germany. Their full set, as performed on the W.E.T Stage before an enthusiastic audience, along with many extras, is included on the brand new DVD release, "Live At Wacken And Beyond", due on February 28 via Metalville Records. The disc also contains "From Tullinge To Hyderabad", a 50-minute documentary following DEGRADEAD from their first years in Tullinge, a small suburb south of Stockholm where the band was formed, to their successful tour of India in February 2011. It includes interviews, live clips and a lot of other "interesting stuff for the fans."
The "Human Nature" performance clip from the "Live At Wacken And Beyond" DVD can be seen below.
DEGRADEAD's third album, "A World Destroyer", was released in North America on June 28, 2011 via Metalville Records. The CD was recorded at Peter Tägtgren's (HYPOCRISY, PAIN) Abyss studios in Pärlby, outside Ludvika, Sweden, with producer Jonas Kjellgren (SCAR SYMMETRY, CENTINEX, WORLD BELOW).
DEGRADEAD is:
Mikael Sehlin - Vocals
Anders Nyström - Guitar
David Szücs - Guitar
Michel Bärzén - Bass
Kenneth Helgesson – Drums
The "Human Nature" performance clip from the "Live At Wacken And Beyond" DVD can be seen below.
DEGRADEAD's third album, "A World Destroyer", was released in North America on June 28, 2011 via Metalville Records. The CD was recorded at Peter Tägtgren's (HYPOCRISY, PAIN) Abyss studios in Pärlby, outside Ludvika, Sweden, with producer Jonas Kjellgren (SCAR SYMMETRY, CENTINEX, WORLD BELOW).
DEGRADEAD is:
Mikael Sehlin - Vocals
Anders Nyström - Guitar
David Szücs - Guitar
Michel Bärzén - Bass
Kenneth Helgesson – Drums
Belgian blackened pagan metallers THEUDHO will release their fourth full-length album, "When Ice Crowns The Earth", mid-January through the Australian label Aurora Australis Records with distribution by Twilight Vertrieb. The eight songs on the CD have a combined playing time of nearly 42 minutes and were mastered by Dan Swanö at Unisound in Örebro, Sweden.
"When Ice Crowns The Earth" track listing:
01. War Into The World
02. When Ice Crowns The Earth
03. The Second Coming
04. Niðr Ok Norðr
05. Heracleidae (Seevölkersturm)
06. Sacrifice The King
07. Lokabrenna
08. The Straw Death
THEUDHO's last album, "Cult Of Wuotan", was released in March 2008 via Germany's Det Germanske Folket. The same label also reissued the band's first two albums that were originally made available via the Belgian label Nepherex: "Treachery" (2004) and "The Völsunga Saga" (2006).
At the end of 2009, THEUDHO decided to record a free digital EP with the then-current live lineup. "The Silence EP" featured re-recordings of four tracks of the previous three albums and was characterized by a sound that goes back to the vibe of the "Treachery" album, drastically scrapping the keyboard arrangements that came to dominate the sound of the previous two albums.
For more information, visit www.theudho.com.
"When Ice Crowns The Earth" track listing:
01. War Into The World
02. When Ice Crowns The Earth
03. The Second Coming
04. Niðr Ok Norðr
05. Heracleidae (Seevölkersturm)
06. Sacrifice The King
07. Lokabrenna
08. The Straw Death
THEUDHO's last album, "Cult Of Wuotan", was released in March 2008 via Germany's Det Germanske Folket. The same label also reissued the band's first two albums that were originally made available via the Belgian label Nepherex: "Treachery" (2004) and "The Völsunga Saga" (2006).
At the end of 2009, THEUDHO decided to record a free digital EP with the then-current live lineup. "The Silence EP" featured re-recordings of four tracks of the previous three albums and was characterized by a sound that goes back to the vibe of the "Treachery" album, drastically scrapping the keyboard arrangements that came to dominate the sound of the previous two albums.
For more information, visit www.theudho.com.
Swedish death metallers INSISION will celebrate their 15-year anniversary with the release of a 23-song collection containing material from their first demo, 1998's "Meant To Suffer"; a recording of the band's second live appearance in 1998, "Live Like A Worm"; the 1999 mini-CD "The Dead Live On"; 2000's "Promo 2000" demo; 2001's "Revelation Of The SadoGod" demo; plus a newly re-recorded version of an old track. Due in May via Sevared Records, the CD will once again be completed with the help of engineer Anders Eriksson at Off Beat Studio in Stockholm.
INSISION is currently writing material for its as-yet-untitled next full-length album, to be released later this year via Sevared.
Commented the band: "The new material sounds like a mix of the complex stuff we did on our first record, 'Beneath The Folds Of Flesh' back in 2001 along with rhythm parts that can be explained with a more darker approach. We don't want our listeners to wait too long for a new record; therefore we'll release this collection for the fans that are into brutal death metal. Hope it's worth the wait."
INSISION's "End Of All" EP came out last year via Sevared.
INSISION is currently writing material for its as-yet-untitled next full-length album, to be released later this year via Sevared.
Commented the band: "The new material sounds like a mix of the complex stuff we did on our first record, 'Beneath The Folds Of Flesh' back in 2001 along with rhythm parts that can be explained with a more darker approach. We don't want our listeners to wait too long for a new record; therefore we'll release this collection for the fans that are into brutal death metal. Hope it's worth the wait."
INSISION's "End Of All" EP came out last year via Sevared.
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