According to People.com, GUNS N' ROSES frontman Axl Rose has been serving jury duty on a civil trial in Santa Monica, California. The 49-year-old singer completed jury duty service on Tuesday "after serving four days of the trial process," says his rep.
"It was relatively painless," says Rose. "I was fortunate that everyone in the courthouse and jurors were all really great, plus I got to see daylight from a different prospect."
GUNS N' ROSES last month completed its first U.S. tour since 2006.
In addition to sole original member Axl Rose, the current lineup of GUNS N' ROSES includes guitarists Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal, Richard Fortus and DJ Ashba, bassist Tommy Stinson, keyboardists Dizzy Reed and Chris Pitman and drummer Frank Ferrer.
"Chinese Democracy", the 2008 album released by the current edition of GUNS N' ROSES after a 15-year wait, was officially certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on February 3, 2009 for shipments in the United States in excess of one million copies. The long-in-the-making, 14-song CD finally arrived 17 years after the last full-length collections of original GUNS material, "Use Your Illusion I" and "II", were released, and nine years after the non-album track "Oh My God" surfaced on the soundtrack of the movie "End Of Days".
"Chinese Democracy" was made available exclusively through Best Buy.
"It was relatively painless," says Rose. "I was fortunate that everyone in the courthouse and jurors were all really great, plus I got to see daylight from a different prospect."
GUNS N' ROSES last month completed its first U.S. tour since 2006.
In addition to sole original member Axl Rose, the current lineup of GUNS N' ROSES includes guitarists Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal, Richard Fortus and DJ Ashba, bassist Tommy Stinson, keyboardists Dizzy Reed and Chris Pitman and drummer Frank Ferrer.
"Chinese Democracy", the 2008 album released by the current edition of GUNS N' ROSES after a 15-year wait, was officially certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on February 3, 2009 for shipments in the United States in excess of one million copies. The long-in-the-making, 14-song CD finally arrived 17 years after the last full-length collections of original GUNS material, "Use Your Illusion I" and "II", were released, and nine years after the non-album track "Oh My God" surfaced on the soundtrack of the movie "End Of Days".
"Chinese Democracy" was made available exclusively through Best Buy.
VELVET REVOLVER reunited with singer Scott Weiland for a one-off performance at last night's (Thursday, January 12) "Love You Madly: A Concert For John O'Brien" at the House Of Blues in West Hollywood, California. The band played a four-song set — including a cover version of the PINK FLOYD classic "Wish You Were Here" — at the event, which paid tribute to award-winning ASCAP composer John O'Brien, who was found dead in his Chicago hotel room last August.
The band's setlist was as follows:
01. Sucker Train Blues
02. She Builds Quick Machines
03. Slither
04. Wish You Were Here (PINK FLOYD cover)
Several photos of the performance and the pre-show soundcheck can be seen below.
VELVET REVOLVER guitarist Dave Kushner told RollingStone.com last week that he brought the group back together to honor O'Brien, who was his best friend.
"I found out he passed away on August 20, and it was like out of nowhere," Kushner told RollingStone.com. "Next day I was in shock and my wife said to me, 'You gotta have a benefit concert for his wife and you have to get VELVET REVOLVER back together.' That's how it started."
He then approached the different band members. "We did a benefit show for this thing called Road Recovery — me, Duff [McKagan], Slash and Matt [Sorum] — in New York, and that's when I asked those guys individually if they would agree to do it," Kushner says. "Once they said so then I got in touch with Scott, and he agreed."
"Because we hadn't played with Scott in a long time I said, 'Look, let's just do three songs.' It's not too much of a commitment," he says. "So we just got a bunch of people, everyone will do three songs."
Regarding the possibility of VELVET REVOLVER carrying on with Weiland after last night's concert, Kushner told RollingStone.com, "We haven't played together in four years, and so we're really just like, 'Let's see how this goes.'
"I know everyone's got other commitments, but I think everyone's like, 'Let's get this thing done and get through this and then we'll see.'"
It's been almost four years since VELVET REVOLVER parted ways with Weiland, and time appears to have healed all wounds. Although Scott and the band split on unfriendly terms, the vocalist told Classic Rock magazine last year, "We patched things up and we get along. I see them every now and again, we text each other. And you know, we can never say never. Who knows, maybe we'll do some shows some time."
According to The Pulse Of Radio, Weiland was reflective in the interview about his time in VELVET REVOLVER, which teamed him with former GUNS N' ROSES members Slash, Duff McKagan and Matt Sorum. He said, "That was right when I was getting off dope and those guys were all sober and clean, and I had a very special kind of kinship because we'd all experienced the same things . . . It was a great band to see live, and I think we made two exciting albums."
Weiland reunited with his original band, STONE TEMPLE PILOTS, just as his run with VELVET REVOLVER was coming to a close. STP has toured constantly since and recorded a new album in 2010.
VELVET REVOLVER has still not found a replacement vocalist and is more or less on hiatus, although it was recently revealed that the group recorded an album's worth of material with STONE SOUR and SLIPKNOT frontman Corey Taylor.
In a July 2011 interview with Brazil's "Lokaos Rock Show", VELVET REVOLVER drummer Matt Sorum said about the band's current status, "After [we parted ways with] Scott Weiland [in 2008]… We had such a great first record, especially. The second album is still a good album, but… It's hard to replace Scott for that particular band, I think.
"When we did VELVET REVOLVER, we wanted to make a modern rock album, and we had to figure out a way to make that work. We didn't wanna be like GUNS N' ROSES. We knew we had that in us anyway, especially the Slash and Duff sound was the initial sound of [GN'R's classic debut album] 'Appetite For Destruction', the way they played together and everything. Part of that chemistry was there, and when we added Scott, it brought it into a more modern rock element. He came more from grunge — the Seattle [sound like] SOUNDGARDEN, PEARL JAM and bands like that. So it took it sort of forward. We became more of a modern rock band and we were on modern rock radio."
O'Brien's first prominent composing job came in 1997, when he provided music for the horror film "Nightwatch". He stayed active until his death, composing additional music for "Anywhere But Here", "Iron Man" and "Iron Man 2", "Pineapple Express", "Four Christmases" and "Couples Retreat". O'Brien also scored the ABC series "In Case Of Emergency" and "Detroit 1-8-7". He was most recently working as a music supervisor on the NBC sitcom "Up All Night".
The band's setlist was as follows:
01. Sucker Train Blues
02. She Builds Quick Machines
03. Slither
04. Wish You Were Here (PINK FLOYD cover)
Several photos of the performance and the pre-show soundcheck can be seen below.
VELVET REVOLVER guitarist Dave Kushner told RollingStone.com last week that he brought the group back together to honor O'Brien, who was his best friend.
"I found out he passed away on August 20, and it was like out of nowhere," Kushner told RollingStone.com. "Next day I was in shock and my wife said to me, 'You gotta have a benefit concert for his wife and you have to get VELVET REVOLVER back together.' That's how it started."
He then approached the different band members. "We did a benefit show for this thing called Road Recovery — me, Duff [McKagan], Slash and Matt [Sorum] — in New York, and that's when I asked those guys individually if they would agree to do it," Kushner says. "Once they said so then I got in touch with Scott, and he agreed."
"Because we hadn't played with Scott in a long time I said, 'Look, let's just do three songs.' It's not too much of a commitment," he says. "So we just got a bunch of people, everyone will do three songs."
Regarding the possibility of VELVET REVOLVER carrying on with Weiland after last night's concert, Kushner told RollingStone.com, "We haven't played together in four years, and so we're really just like, 'Let's see how this goes.'
"I know everyone's got other commitments, but I think everyone's like, 'Let's get this thing done and get through this and then we'll see.'"
It's been almost four years since VELVET REVOLVER parted ways with Weiland, and time appears to have healed all wounds. Although Scott and the band split on unfriendly terms, the vocalist told Classic Rock magazine last year, "We patched things up and we get along. I see them every now and again, we text each other. And you know, we can never say never. Who knows, maybe we'll do some shows some time."
According to The Pulse Of Radio, Weiland was reflective in the interview about his time in VELVET REVOLVER, which teamed him with former GUNS N' ROSES members Slash, Duff McKagan and Matt Sorum. He said, "That was right when I was getting off dope and those guys were all sober and clean, and I had a very special kind of kinship because we'd all experienced the same things . . . It was a great band to see live, and I think we made two exciting albums."
Weiland reunited with his original band, STONE TEMPLE PILOTS, just as his run with VELVET REVOLVER was coming to a close. STP has toured constantly since and recorded a new album in 2010.
VELVET REVOLVER has still not found a replacement vocalist and is more or less on hiatus, although it was recently revealed that the group recorded an album's worth of material with STONE SOUR and SLIPKNOT frontman Corey Taylor.
In a July 2011 interview with Brazil's "Lokaos Rock Show", VELVET REVOLVER drummer Matt Sorum said about the band's current status, "After [we parted ways with] Scott Weiland [in 2008]… We had such a great first record, especially. The second album is still a good album, but… It's hard to replace Scott for that particular band, I think.
"When we did VELVET REVOLVER, we wanted to make a modern rock album, and we had to figure out a way to make that work. We didn't wanna be like GUNS N' ROSES. We knew we had that in us anyway, especially the Slash and Duff sound was the initial sound of [GN'R's classic debut album] 'Appetite For Destruction', the way they played together and everything. Part of that chemistry was there, and when we added Scott, it brought it into a more modern rock element. He came more from grunge — the Seattle [sound like] SOUNDGARDEN, PEARL JAM and bands like that. So it took it sort of forward. We became more of a modern rock band and we were on modern rock radio."
O'Brien's first prominent composing job came in 1997, when he provided music for the horror film "Nightwatch". He stayed active until his death, composing additional music for "Anywhere But Here", "Iron Man" and "Iron Man 2", "Pineapple Express", "Four Christmases" and "Couples Retreat". O'Brien also scored the ABC series "In Case Of Emergency" and "Detroit 1-8-7". He was most recently working as a music supervisor on the NBC sitcom "Up All Night".
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Los Angeles-based drummer Jason Sutter has joined MARILYN MANSON's touring lineup, beginning with the band's appearances at Australia's Soundwave Festival in February.
The accomplished musician has recorded and performed with a vast array of artists throughout his career, including tenures with FOREIGNER and NEW YORK DOLLS and a three-year stint behind the drumkit for SOUNDGARDEN/AUDIOSLAVE frontman Chris Cornell. He has also played with AMERICAN HI-FI, THE REMBRANDTS, PINK, SMASH MOUTH, JASON FALKNER, VERTICAL HORIZON and JULIANA HATFIELD and is highly sought-after as a session/touring musician.
Born in Potsdam, New York, Jason began playing drums at the age of nine and played his first professional gig at the age of ten with his band PARAGON! Playing his first "bar gig" at thirteen, Jason continued to play clubs two to three times a week throughout his high school years. Upon graduation Jason attended the esteemed University of North Texas where he graduated with a Bachelors degree in music education and later attended the University of Miami. While pursuing his Masters degree in orchestral percussion, Jason taught, performed and recorded with the top ensembles at the University, including its famous "Concert Jazz Band" (CJB) as well as performing professionally throughout Miami. While still in Graduate school, Jason landed his first tour with Atlantic recording artist JULIANA HATFIELD. After Miami, Jason relocated to Boston where he recorded, performed and toured with such artists as LETTERS TO CLEO, JACK DRAG and BEN LEE, among many others.
In 2005 Jason completed an extensive U.K., U.S. and Japanese tour with AMERICAN HI-FI and the following year went on to record and play with multi platinum artists SMASH MOUTH. Following three years of international touring and recording with SOUNDGARDEN/AUDIOSLAVE front-man Chris Cornell, Jason recorded and toured for VERTICAL HORIZON's "Burning The Days" album, sharing drum duties with legendary RUSH drummer Neil Peart during the making of the record. In 2010 Jason completed the "Can't Slow Down" world tour with American rock legends FOREIGNER and then headed straight into touring with punk rock icons the NEW YORK DOLLS across the U.S. (with MÖTLEY CRÜE and POISON) and the U.K. (supporting ALICE COOPER).
The forthcoming MARILYN MANSON world tour marks the next chapter in Jason's impressive and eclectic career. In addition to headline shows the tour will also include major festivals around the world, beginning with Australia's Soundwave Festival in February and a run of European festivals throughout the summer.
The accomplished musician has recorded and performed with a vast array of artists throughout his career, including tenures with FOREIGNER and NEW YORK DOLLS and a three-year stint behind the drumkit for SOUNDGARDEN/AUDIOSLAVE frontman Chris Cornell. He has also played with AMERICAN HI-FI, THE REMBRANDTS, PINK, SMASH MOUTH, JASON FALKNER, VERTICAL HORIZON and JULIANA HATFIELD and is highly sought-after as a session/touring musician.
Born in Potsdam, New York, Jason began playing drums at the age of nine and played his first professional gig at the age of ten with his band PARAGON! Playing his first "bar gig" at thirteen, Jason continued to play clubs two to three times a week throughout his high school years. Upon graduation Jason attended the esteemed University of North Texas where he graduated with a Bachelors degree in music education and later attended the University of Miami. While pursuing his Masters degree in orchestral percussion, Jason taught, performed and recorded with the top ensembles at the University, including its famous "Concert Jazz Band" (CJB) as well as performing professionally throughout Miami. While still in Graduate school, Jason landed his first tour with Atlantic recording artist JULIANA HATFIELD. After Miami, Jason relocated to Boston where he recorded, performed and toured with such artists as LETTERS TO CLEO, JACK DRAG and BEN LEE, among many others.
In 2005 Jason completed an extensive U.K., U.S. and Japanese tour with AMERICAN HI-FI and the following year went on to record and play with multi platinum artists SMASH MOUTH. Following three years of international touring and recording with SOUNDGARDEN/AUDIOSLAVE front-man Chris Cornell, Jason recorded and toured for VERTICAL HORIZON's "Burning The Days" album, sharing drum duties with legendary RUSH drummer Neil Peart during the making of the record. In 2010 Jason completed the "Can't Slow Down" world tour with American rock legends FOREIGNER and then headed straight into touring with punk rock icons the NEW YORK DOLLS across the U.S. (with MÖTLEY CRÜE and POISON) and the U.K. (supporting ALICE COOPER).
The forthcoming MARILYN MANSON world tour marks the next chapter in Jason's impressive and eclectic career. In addition to headline shows the tour will also include major festivals around the world, beginning with Australia's Soundwave Festival in February and a run of European festivals throughout the summer.
What you know about Jack Russell: You know the very popular 1987 MTV video, "Once Bitten, Twice Shy," by Great White. "I hated that song — I don't know why that was a hit," he says, preferring 'Rock Me' instead. He's struggled with drugs and alcohol his whole life, yet he's now 5 months sober.
You may know about the tragic 2003 fire during a Great White concert in a small Rhode Island club, killing 100 people, including Ty Longley, the band's guitarist of three years.
And you may also know that Russell and former band members recently engaged in a legal battle over the "Great White" trademark. "I founded the band in 1978…. Obviously, I'm not gonna go down without a fight. This is my baby. This is my vision, my creation. This is my whole life's work."
What you don't: He's a local. He lives in Redondo Beach, on a 45-foot yacht. He married the nurse who cared for him for 7 months. He lives with Heather on the boat, and he's a SCUBA diver. "One of the best places I've dove is Bahia delos Angeles, 400 miles south of the border on the Cortez side…. I fish for Mako sharks…. The sea is my church…. I'm really a normal guy. I'm not a rock star 24/7. I smell like fish and diesel fuel. I fix my own stuff. I work on my own boat."
Russell, now 51, grew up influenced by singers Robert Plant and Steven Tyler. He became a vocalist for many bands in his high school and early-performing years. "Before I wanted to become a rock star, I wanted to be an archeologist. And now I'm a dinosaur."
He reports that when he was six his parents gave him the Beatles "HELP" album. "I heard it, and I was like, this is what I'm gonna be." So he wasn't surprised when he heard his song "Out of the Night" on KMET radio for the first time at age 21.
Things he's lost: He's lost 5 inches of height due to 20 years of prednisone use, compressing his spine. "I used to be 5' 11. I've [also] lost a couple of stupidly high notes, stuff I haven't used since I was a kid, like in the early '80s where it was cool to sing as high as you possibly could . . . notes only the dogs could hear.
"I just lost a good friend of mine to this disease [alcoholism],Jani Lanefrom Warrant, who died the same day [August 11, 2011] I had my surgery to repair a shattered pelvis. I was dead. I died. I was flat-lined on the table from sepsis from a bowel perforation. I was in a coma for 5 days. . . . Steven Tyler from Aerosmith called me a couple days later and said, 'Dude, what are you doing?' He's always been my sober coach. That really woke me up. I'm just so happy to be sober."
"Hey! We're on a boat!" (Jack and Anna Cox) Photo by Jaymz Eberly
What he wants you to know: "Being a decent human being, good songwriter, good singer, just a loving, caring person — that's what I want to be known for."
Though he last played a show in August 2010, plans are for a global tour starting this February playing "mostly just classic Great White, some solo stuff…. We're going all over the world. We've got offers from Europe,Australia,Japan,South America. I'm excited about this."
Now fully recovered from his recent medical setbacks, Russell has given his new, reconstituted band a slightly different name to avoid confusion with the old group – Great White, featuring Jack Russell. "Right now I think the biggest misconception is that I'm not ready to go back on the road…. [But] you can tell I'm not crippled here. The rumors of my death have been greatly exaggerated. I'm lucid. I'm sober. I feel great. I am ready to go back on the road…. Once people see me on stage, they'll go, 'Oh, well, there you go.'"
The show: Jack Russell and his new band lineup will be playing at Delzano's Saturday, Jan. 14, at 11:45 p.m. Get there early. This annual event, featuring 13 live bands plus comedy and karaoke at Delzano's, Naja's Place and Louie Luey's, begins at 3 p.m. and is presented by the National Association of Music Merchants, and Rock-n-Roll GangStar apparel. Free before 8 p.m., $5 after. 21 and over. There'll be a "grip n grin" [autograph time] after the show. "It's great to be playing in my old neighborhood. It's awesome…. If there was a slip, I could drive my boat up and make a real [grand] entrance."
British epic power metallers DRAGONFORCE have canceled their appearance at this year's Soundwave Festival in Australia due to the delay in completing their new album.
Commented DRAGONFORCE guitarist Sam Totman: "It's bitterly disappointing for us not to be able to play our debut Soundwave in 2012, because we were so looking forward to it and were going to kick off the world tour there. The problem is we've only just finished the actual recording of the new album and now have the mastering, videos and a ton of worldwide promo to do. The album recording was already running late when Marc [Hudson, new DRAGONFORCE singer] contracted laryngitis a couple of months back which meant he couldn't finish his vocals in the studio on time and pushed the album release date back even further.
"Australia has always been great to us and we can 100% assure our Aussie fans that we will be touring there at some point in 2012; we just have to move our touring plans around a little to accommodate the delay. The good news is the album is sounding awesome and we are all eager for our fans to hear it and we hope everyone has a great Soundwave!"
The new DRAGONFORCE album will be released in Australia through 3Wise Records in the spring.
DRAGONFORCE will be replaced by PARADISE LOST and SWITCHFOOT as the final two bands on the monstrous Soundwave Festival lineup.
DRAGONFORCE hasd announced its first U.K. headline concert with Hudson on February 16 at at the 100 Club on Oxford Street in London. The gig is timed to give DRAGONFORCE fans an opportunity to celebrate with the band the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Dragon, and the fact that the group's new album is finally finished and due for release in the spring.
Commented guitarist Herman Li: "We are all glad to be finished in the studio, especially given that the new record is sounding fantastic! We're looking forward to letting off steam at the 100 Club and announcing that in the Year of the Dragon, DRAGONFORCE are well and truly back!"
After entries from thousands of hopefuls across the globe, DRAGONFORCE in March 2011 welcomed 23-year-old Marc Hudson to the band to fill the boots left by ZP Theart, who parted ways with the group in March 2010.
Born in Oxford England, Marc was picked from the thousands of applications via a number of impressive video auditions and live performances, which left the rest of the band in no doubt that they'd found their man. Since the age of 16, Marc has been building his vocal skills gigging with bands in the U.K. underground scene, developing a powerful style with influences which include Bruce Dickinson, Michael Kiske and Sebastian Bach.
The band has been working on a new album since early 2010, recording in various studios in California, London and the South of France. The follow-up to 2008's hugely successful "Ultra Beatdown" album will be highly anticipated, with top 10 and top 20 chart positions all over the world and a Grammy nomination in the United States setting the precedent. With Marc brought into the fold, the band is enjoying an injection of enthusiasm and hunger that sees DRAGONFORCE prepared to return more focused and determined than ever before.
Commented DRAGONFORCE guitarist Sam Totman: "It's bitterly disappointing for us not to be able to play our debut Soundwave in 2012, because we were so looking forward to it and were going to kick off the world tour there. The problem is we've only just finished the actual recording of the new album and now have the mastering, videos and a ton of worldwide promo to do. The album recording was already running late when Marc [Hudson, new DRAGONFORCE singer] contracted laryngitis a couple of months back which meant he couldn't finish his vocals in the studio on time and pushed the album release date back even further.
"Australia has always been great to us and we can 100% assure our Aussie fans that we will be touring there at some point in 2012; we just have to move our touring plans around a little to accommodate the delay. The good news is the album is sounding awesome and we are all eager for our fans to hear it and we hope everyone has a great Soundwave!"
The new DRAGONFORCE album will be released in Australia through 3Wise Records in the spring.
DRAGONFORCE will be replaced by PARADISE LOST and SWITCHFOOT as the final two bands on the monstrous Soundwave Festival lineup.
DRAGONFORCE hasd announced its first U.K. headline concert with Hudson on February 16 at at the 100 Club on Oxford Street in London. The gig is timed to give DRAGONFORCE fans an opportunity to celebrate with the band the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Dragon, and the fact that the group's new album is finally finished and due for release in the spring.
Commented guitarist Herman Li: "We are all glad to be finished in the studio, especially given that the new record is sounding fantastic! We're looking forward to letting off steam at the 100 Club and announcing that in the Year of the Dragon, DRAGONFORCE are well and truly back!"
After entries from thousands of hopefuls across the globe, DRAGONFORCE in March 2011 welcomed 23-year-old Marc Hudson to the band to fill the boots left by ZP Theart, who parted ways with the group in March 2010.
Born in Oxford England, Marc was picked from the thousands of applications via a number of impressive video auditions and live performances, which left the rest of the band in no doubt that they'd found their man. Since the age of 16, Marc has been building his vocal skills gigging with bands in the U.K. underground scene, developing a powerful style with influences which include Bruce Dickinson, Michael Kiske and Sebastian Bach.
The band has been working on a new album since early 2010, recording in various studios in California, London and the South of France. The follow-up to 2008's hugely successful "Ultra Beatdown" album will be highly anticipated, with top 10 and top 20 chart positions all over the world and a Grammy nomination in the United States setting the precedent. With Marc brought into the fold, the band is enjoying an injection of enthusiasm and hunger that sees DRAGONFORCE prepared to return more focused and determined than ever before.
EXODUS, POSSESSED, FORBIDDEN and HEATHEN are among the bands who will perform at a special concert to mark the 10-year anniversary of former EXODUS singer Paul Baloff's passing. Dubbed "Bonded By Baloff: A Decade Of Remembrance", the event will take place on Saturday, February 4, 2012 at the Oakland Metro Operahouse and will feature "a mind-blowing lineup that will rock your socks off!" according to a press release.
Commented EXODUS guitarist Gary Holt: "With February 2nd being the 10 year anniversary of Paul's passing, the band knew it was high time we do something special to remember the legend of Paul Baloff, so we decided to put together a show the Bay Area will not soon forget. We've pulled some of the Bay's finest for this, bands who knew and shared many a stage and drink with Pavel. There are some nice surprises in store as well! It will be ten years and two days since the thrash world lost one of its greatest frontmen ever, and we will always make sure his memory lives on and is never forgotten. Long live The Destroyer!"
Added FORBIDDEN guitarist and founding member Craig Locicero: "Everyone in FORBIDDEN is honored to have been asked by Gary and EXODUS to play this show marking the 10th anniversary of Paul Baloff's crazy fucking life! I witnessed his insanity first-hand at the Mabouhay Gardens and Ruthie's Inn. As EXODUS got bigger, Paul got crazier — in a good way. It was genius at work. He was the mold that all thrash frontmen cut themselves from, but he was also a pretty damn sweet guy. Always kind to those he liked, he'd be in the front row at FORBIDDEN gigs screaming things like 'Why does it have to be so heavy?' and my favorite, 'Heavier than time!' I'm laughing just typing this!
"At his memorial, I saw people I hadn't seen in years. So much love, so many laughs. It made me happy in some strange way just to see that kind of respect displayed for Paul. We all really loved him. Luckily his legend has returned with a vengeance… and hey, Paul, you did it: You've become heavier than time!"
Scheduled performers:
Main Stage
EXODUS
POSSESSED
FORBIDDEN
HEATHEN
MAD AT SAM
Second Stage
ANGERHEAD
MUDFACE
THE VENTING MACHINE
HELLFIRE
HYSTERIA
You can purchase advance tickets at this location.
It was almost a decade ago — on January 31, 2002 — that Paul Baloff suffered a major stroke and was brought to Highland General Hospital in Northern California, where he remained in a coma until he was declared brain dead. On February 2, 2002, his doctors shut off his life support, leaving him to die in his sleep. He had no previous known health problems, and the stroke was a complete surprise to everyone around him.
On the fifth anniversary of Baloff's passing, Holt said, "[Paul's] contribution to metal lives on. How else can you explain how a guy can record one album (twice!) and still be remembered as a thrash legend to this very day? Raise those glasses high, and hide your wallets, because Paul might just be right behind you!"
"Let There Be Blood", the controversial re-recording of EXODUS' classic 1985 debut album, "Bonded by Blood", was issued in October 2008 through Zaentz Records.
Regarding the band's decision to re-record "Bonded By Blood", Holt previously said: "It is our way of paying homage to Paul Baloff by showing how relevant these songs we had written together still are. We aren't trying to replace the original; that's impossible anyway. We are just giving these songs the benefit of modern production. It's something we talked about before Paul's death and it's always been important to us to do. We were super-excited about entering the studio once again to record these classics." Current EXODUS vocalist Rob Dukes added, "Paul was rad, totally original. He was not like [METALLICA's James] Hetfield or [SLAYER's Tom] Araya. I think at times he wanted to be, but he was simply himself. He had a really cool way of going up with his voice in the weirdest spots. I, myself, find it cool and original."
Commented EXODUS guitarist Gary Holt: "With February 2nd being the 10 year anniversary of Paul's passing, the band knew it was high time we do something special to remember the legend of Paul Baloff, so we decided to put together a show the Bay Area will not soon forget. We've pulled some of the Bay's finest for this, bands who knew and shared many a stage and drink with Pavel. There are some nice surprises in store as well! It will be ten years and two days since the thrash world lost one of its greatest frontmen ever, and we will always make sure his memory lives on and is never forgotten. Long live The Destroyer!"
Added FORBIDDEN guitarist and founding member Craig Locicero: "Everyone in FORBIDDEN is honored to have been asked by Gary and EXODUS to play this show marking the 10th anniversary of Paul Baloff's crazy fucking life! I witnessed his insanity first-hand at the Mabouhay Gardens and Ruthie's Inn. As EXODUS got bigger, Paul got crazier — in a good way. It was genius at work. He was the mold that all thrash frontmen cut themselves from, but he was also a pretty damn sweet guy. Always kind to those he liked, he'd be in the front row at FORBIDDEN gigs screaming things like 'Why does it have to be so heavy?' and my favorite, 'Heavier than time!' I'm laughing just typing this!
"At his memorial, I saw people I hadn't seen in years. So much love, so many laughs. It made me happy in some strange way just to see that kind of respect displayed for Paul. We all really loved him. Luckily his legend has returned with a vengeance… and hey, Paul, you did it: You've become heavier than time!"
Scheduled performers:
Main Stage
EXODUS
POSSESSED
FORBIDDEN
HEATHEN
MAD AT SAM
Second Stage
ANGERHEAD
MUDFACE
THE VENTING MACHINE
HELLFIRE
HYSTERIA
You can purchase advance tickets at this location.
It was almost a decade ago — on January 31, 2002 — that Paul Baloff suffered a major stroke and was brought to Highland General Hospital in Northern California, where he remained in a coma until he was declared brain dead. On February 2, 2002, his doctors shut off his life support, leaving him to die in his sleep. He had no previous known health problems, and the stroke was a complete surprise to everyone around him.
On the fifth anniversary of Baloff's passing, Holt said, "[Paul's] contribution to metal lives on. How else can you explain how a guy can record one album (twice!) and still be remembered as a thrash legend to this very day? Raise those glasses high, and hide your wallets, because Paul might just be right behind you!"
"Let There Be Blood", the controversial re-recording of EXODUS' classic 1985 debut album, "Bonded by Blood", was issued in October 2008 through Zaentz Records.
Regarding the band's decision to re-record "Bonded By Blood", Holt previously said: "It is our way of paying homage to Paul Baloff by showing how relevant these songs we had written together still are. We aren't trying to replace the original; that's impossible anyway. We are just giving these songs the benefit of modern production. It's something we talked about before Paul's death and it's always been important to us to do. We were super-excited about entering the studio once again to record these classics." Current EXODUS vocalist Rob Dukes added, "Paul was rad, totally original. He was not like [METALLICA's James] Hetfield or [SLAYER's Tom] Araya. I think at times he wanted to be, but he was simply himself. He had a really cool way of going up with his voice in the weirdest spots. I, myself, find it cool and original."
RIOT founder and guitarist Mark Reale has been admitted to a San Antonio hospital in critical condition due to complications of Crohn's disease. Subsequently, there is a possibility that he may not appear in the band's upcoming performances in the Northeast and aboard the 70,000 Tons Of Metal cruise to Grand Cayman.
Mark has been battling Crohn's for most of his life, working and performing while enduring almost constant pain and the side effects of treatment for his illness. He was in Texas bravely attempting to practice for the shows, but was felled by a severe onset of Crohn's symptoms leaving him in the Intensive Care Unit at an undisclosed facility.
The band has agreed that the performances will take place as scheduled with the possibility that Mark may not be well enough in time to appear. RIOT would also like to acknowledge that Mark has been struggling with these symptoms throughout the production of their new album, "Immortal Soul", and that guitarist Mike Flyntz recorded a major portion of the guitars on the album with Mark's creative direction while he was unable to perform. For this reason, fans can be assured that the show will be as exciting as anything RIOT has ever staged, even if Mike needs to hold down double guitar duty. Mark will be sorely missed in this event, but the shows will go on.
RIOT is asking fans and friends of the band to pray for Mark's speedy recovery, and to support the group in their efforts to bring you the RIOT reunion shows that have been so long in the making. While Mark's family insists on privacy during this difficult time, your prayers and good wishes will make it to his bedside until he is able to return to the stage.
Mark has been battling Crohn's for most of his life, working and performing while enduring almost constant pain and the side effects of treatment for his illness. He was in Texas bravely attempting to practice for the shows, but was felled by a severe onset of Crohn's symptoms leaving him in the Intensive Care Unit at an undisclosed facility.
The band has agreed that the performances will take place as scheduled with the possibility that Mark may not be well enough in time to appear. RIOT would also like to acknowledge that Mark has been struggling with these symptoms throughout the production of their new album, "Immortal Soul", and that guitarist Mike Flyntz recorded a major portion of the guitars on the album with Mark's creative direction while he was unable to perform. For this reason, fans can be assured that the show will be as exciting as anything RIOT has ever staged, even if Mike needs to hold down double guitar duty. Mark will be sorely missed in this event, but the shows will go on.
RIOT is asking fans and friends of the band to pray for Mark's speedy recovery, and to support the group in their efforts to bring you the RIOT reunion shows that have been so long in the making. While Mark's family insists on privacy during this difficult time, your prayers and good wishes will make it to his bedside until he is able to return to the stage.
From the band that created a musical revolution and a legion of fans across the world, comes Living Breathing Films — a new film and television production company specializing in mystery, suspense, horror and the dark side of life.
A collaboration between the Grammy-winning SLIPKNOT visionary and percussionist M. Shawn Crahan and SLIPKNOT/STONE SOUR frontman Corey Taylor — Living Breathing Films is heading to the Sundance Film Festival to announce projects on tap in 2012.
On Saturday, January 21, Shawn and Corey, along with Sanctuary5B Artist Management, have organized a press conference, launch party and rare acoustic performance for attending media, festival-goers and select fans at The Carhartt Backcountry Club (Treasure Mountain Inn in Park City, Utah) to discuss the exciting film projects heading for production this year.
"We're heading to Sundance to connect with the industry since we're now actively looking for TV and film submissions," Shawn states. The company's first film is already in development with Corey and Shawn, both of whom are giving input to the script. Taylor promises, "It'll be very psychological. It's a study in 'Did my eyes see what I think they saw?' It's definitely going to stir the pot and get the world talking. Those are the best movies."
Shawn and Corey are renowned worldwide as part of the visually macabre multi-platinum, Grammy-winning nine-piece group SLIPKNOT — one of the biggest hard rock bands in the world. Taylor who is also the dynamic lead-singer for the group STONE SOUR, became a bestselling author last year with his debut "Seven Deadly Sins: Settling The Argument Between Born Bad And Damaged Good". The book spent four weeks on the New York Times best sellers list and five weeks on the Times Of London's best sellers list. Helming numerous documentaries on the group including "Voliminal: Inside The Nine" (2006), "Nine: The Making Of All Hope Is Gone" (2008), "(sic)nesess" (2010), and "Goat" (2011), Crahan co-directed all of SLIPKNOT's music videos and the band's acclaimed shot film for "Snuff" from their fourth album "All Hope Is Gone" in 2009. The six-minute noir video for "Snuff" features legendary actor Malcolm McDowell ("A Clockwork Orange") while Corey stars in the enigmatic clip which garnered over 14 million views on YouTube. It was only a matter of time before they properly formed a production entity.
SLIPKNOT now has over 11 million Facebook fans eagerly waiting to devour their art, music, videos, written word and vision. With a history of subverting the mainstream and their connection to a younger generation of film fans that are ready to be exhilarated by movies again, 2012 is the start of Living Breathing Films, and the beginning of a new chapter in film history.
"We've done it before — we're equipped to do it again," Shawn says. "Sit back and enjoy the next level of our art and vision."
A collaboration between the Grammy-winning SLIPKNOT visionary and percussionist M. Shawn Crahan and SLIPKNOT/STONE SOUR frontman Corey Taylor — Living Breathing Films is heading to the Sundance Film Festival to announce projects on tap in 2012.
On Saturday, January 21, Shawn and Corey, along with Sanctuary5B Artist Management, have organized a press conference, launch party and rare acoustic performance for attending media, festival-goers and select fans at The Carhartt Backcountry Club (Treasure Mountain Inn in Park City, Utah) to discuss the exciting film projects heading for production this year.
"We're heading to Sundance to connect with the industry since we're now actively looking for TV and film submissions," Shawn states. The company's first film is already in development with Corey and Shawn, both of whom are giving input to the script. Taylor promises, "It'll be very psychological. It's a study in 'Did my eyes see what I think they saw?' It's definitely going to stir the pot and get the world talking. Those are the best movies."
Shawn and Corey are renowned worldwide as part of the visually macabre multi-platinum, Grammy-winning nine-piece group SLIPKNOT — one of the biggest hard rock bands in the world. Taylor who is also the dynamic lead-singer for the group STONE SOUR, became a bestselling author last year with his debut "Seven Deadly Sins: Settling The Argument Between Born Bad And Damaged Good". The book spent four weeks on the New York Times best sellers list and five weeks on the Times Of London's best sellers list. Helming numerous documentaries on the group including "Voliminal: Inside The Nine" (2006), "Nine: The Making Of All Hope Is Gone" (2008), "(sic)nesess" (2010), and "Goat" (2011), Crahan co-directed all of SLIPKNOT's music videos and the band's acclaimed shot film for "Snuff" from their fourth album "All Hope Is Gone" in 2009. The six-minute noir video for "Snuff" features legendary actor Malcolm McDowell ("A Clockwork Orange") while Corey stars in the enigmatic clip which garnered over 14 million views on YouTube. It was only a matter of time before they properly formed a production entity.
SLIPKNOT now has over 11 million Facebook fans eagerly waiting to devour their art, music, videos, written word and vision. With a history of subverting the mainstream and their connection to a younger generation of film fans that are ready to be exhilarated by movies again, 2012 is the start of Living Breathing Films, and the beginning of a new chapter in film history.
"We've done it before — we're equipped to do it again," Shawn says. "Sit back and enjoy the next level of our art and vision."
Corey Taylor recently spoke to ARTISTdirect about the progress of the songwriting sessions for STONE SOUR's follow-up to 2010's "Audio Secrecy", which he says will turn out to be "an album that no one wants us to make."
According to Taylor, STONE SOUR will hit the studio in 2012, between SLIPKNOT's run on February's Soundwave Festival in Australia and a summer tour of North America that's slated to kick off in mid-June. The CD will probably be recorded in Iowa with producer David Bottrill, who has previously worked with TOOL, MUSE and Peter Gabriel, among others.
"I am looking forward to basically becoming a mad scientist in the studio and creating an album that no one wants us to make," Taylor said. "I pretty much got permission to do whatever I wanted, which means that I'm essentially going against the grain in an age where people are fucking trying to simply put out singles. We're looking to do a double concept album and really make it destructive."
He added, "Picture [PINK FLOYD's] 'The Wall' meets [ALICE IN CHAINS'] 'Dirt' on steroids, and that will give you a taste of what I'm shooting for right now. We've already got 14 tunes done, and we're looking to get another 15 ready to go. The stuff we have right now is nuclear. It's pretty much going to go all the way. It's dark as shit. There's so much balls out rock on it as well as some good headpunchers and some really cool fucking dark pieces. I'm really excited about it."
Taylor previously said about the storyline for the next STONE SOUR record, "It's basically the story of a man who's trying to figure it out. He can't figure out if he's happier when he's miserable, or if he's miserable about not being happy. It's almost like a mid-life crisis in a way. He's young enough that he knows that there's still a lot of life to live, but he's old enough to realize that he can't be hung up on the romance of teenage depression and youthful aggression."
According to Taylor, STONE SOUR will hit the studio in 2012, between SLIPKNOT's run on February's Soundwave Festival in Australia and a summer tour of North America that's slated to kick off in mid-June. The CD will probably be recorded in Iowa with producer David Bottrill, who has previously worked with TOOL, MUSE and Peter Gabriel, among others.
"I am looking forward to basically becoming a mad scientist in the studio and creating an album that no one wants us to make," Taylor said. "I pretty much got permission to do whatever I wanted, which means that I'm essentially going against the grain in an age where people are fucking trying to simply put out singles. We're looking to do a double concept album and really make it destructive."
He added, "Picture [PINK FLOYD's] 'The Wall' meets [ALICE IN CHAINS'] 'Dirt' on steroids, and that will give you a taste of what I'm shooting for right now. We've already got 14 tunes done, and we're looking to get another 15 ready to go. The stuff we have right now is nuclear. It's pretty much going to go all the way. It's dark as shit. There's so much balls out rock on it as well as some good headpunchers and some really cool fucking dark pieces. I'm really excited about it."
Taylor previously said about the storyline for the next STONE SOUR record, "It's basically the story of a man who's trying to figure it out. He can't figure out if he's happier when he's miserable, or if he's miserable about not being happy. It's almost like a mid-life crisis in a way. He's young enough that he knows that there's still a lot of life to live, but he's old enough to realize that he can't be hung up on the romance of teenage depression and youthful aggression."
According to the webstore of Nuclear Blast Records, Swedish experimental extreme metallers MESHUGGAH have set "Koloss" as the title of their new album, due in Germany on March 23 and the rest of Europe on March 26 (March 27 in North America) as a CD digi, limited-edition Magic Cube (CD digi plus DVD exclusive to Nuclear Blast mail order) and two-LP brown vinyl.
In a 2011 interview with Guitar World magazine, MESHUGGAH guitarist Fredrik Thordendal was asked whether the band has been working on new music. "Yes, we are working on a new album and have been for a long time," Fredrik said. "I'm so excited about this one. We've always tried to change how we write songs to keep it exciting, but on recent albums we've also been moving further away from working together as a band. On this album, though, everyone is working together. Every day that we're in the studio, we'll play whatever song we're working on, record a demo version of it to analyze at home, and then come back the next day, talk about it and try to make it better. I think because of this, it's going to be our best album yet."
Regarding the approach to the new music, MESHUGGAH drummer Tomas Haake told Decibel magazine in a 2010 interview, "Maybe not try to be as anal about every single little hit [that] has to be super-tight but be more focused on the vibe of a track and let some of those tiny errors slip through. I think that kinda breeds a bit of life into a song."
Released in March 2008, MESHUGGAH 's last album, "obZen", debuted at No. 59 on The Billboard 200 chart and at No. 14 on the iTunes Top Rock Albums chart.
MESHUGGAH's first DVD, "Alive" sold around 3,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 8 on the Top Music Videos chart.
In a 2011 interview with Guitar World magazine, MESHUGGAH guitarist Fredrik Thordendal was asked whether the band has been working on new music. "Yes, we are working on a new album and have been for a long time," Fredrik said. "I'm so excited about this one. We've always tried to change how we write songs to keep it exciting, but on recent albums we've also been moving further away from working together as a band. On this album, though, everyone is working together. Every day that we're in the studio, we'll play whatever song we're working on, record a demo version of it to analyze at home, and then come back the next day, talk about it and try to make it better. I think because of this, it's going to be our best album yet."
Regarding the approach to the new music, MESHUGGAH drummer Tomas Haake told Decibel magazine in a 2010 interview, "Maybe not try to be as anal about every single little hit [that] has to be super-tight but be more focused on the vibe of a track and let some of those tiny errors slip through. I think that kinda breeds a bit of life into a song."
Released in March 2008, MESHUGGAH 's last album, "obZen", debuted at No. 59 on The Billboard 200 chart and at No. 14 on the iTunes Top Rock Albums chart.
MESHUGGAH's first DVD, "Alive" sold around 3,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 8 on the Top Music Videos chart.
"The Crow, The Owl And The Dove", the second single from "Imaginaerum", the new album from Finnish/Swedish symphonic metallers NIGHTWISH, will be released in Europe on March 2 via Nuclear Blast Records. Along with the title track, the single will include a previously unreleased song called "The Heart Asks Pleasure First" (theme from the movie "The Piano"). The cut will be available in two different versions, including an instrumental one.
"The Crow, The Owl And The Dove" is featured in three versions: the radio edit, album version and an instrumental.
You can order the single on CD, or as a vinyl in clear or blue color, at this location.
As previously reported, 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
"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" was released 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.
"The Crow, The Owl And The Dove" is featured in three versions: the radio edit, album version and an instrumental.
You can order the single on CD, or as a vinyl in clear or blue color, at this location.
As previously reported, 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
"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" was released 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.
Several new photos of STORM CORROSION, the much-anticipated collaboration project between OPETH's Mikael Åkerfeldt and PORCUPINE TREE's Steven Wilson, can be seen below.
STORM CORROSION last year completed work on its self-titled debut album for an April 2012 release through Roadrunner Records. Apart from Mikael and Steven, the CD includes guest appearances by Gavin Harrison (PORCUPINE TREE) on drums/percussion, Ben Castle on woodwinds and Dave Stewart on string arrangements.
In a interview with Metal Injection conducted on November 11 at the Best Buy Theater in New York City, Wilson was asked how STORM CORROSION is different from his previous collaborations with Åkerfeldt. "Well, the only stuff I've collaborated with Mikael on in the past has been working on his records," Wilson replied. "This is obviously a collaboration, so it's a different approach. We sat in a room together and we wrote music together, rather than taking his music that he'd already written and working it into a record. We actually started from the very basics — composition and arranging."
He continued, "If you'd asked me three months ago about the music, I would have said, 'Expect the last thing you would expect.' But actually, now that [OPETH's new record] 'Heritage' has come out and [Steven Wilson's solo album] 'Grace Of Drowning' has come out, I don't think it's going to be that much of a shock to people, because it's almost like a third part of the trilogy, in a way. If anything, it's even more orchestral, even more stripped down, even more dark, twisted and melancholic… but it certainly feels like it comes from the same place as 'Heritage' and 'Grace For Drowning', which indeed it does because it was written during the same period — it was written during a period that he was playing the tracks that he'd written for 'Heritage' and I was playing the tracks that I had written for 'Grace Of Drowning'. So we were kind of, in a way, egging each other on, encouraging each other to do those particular records, but also at the same time coming up with this music that is now gonna be on STORM CORROSION. So it's a very orchestral record, it's very — as you'd expect — epic, the songs are quite long and they develop in quite unusual ways."
He concluded, "I'm realistic that half the people are gonna hate it and half the people probably will fall in love with it. I'd be happy with that anyway."
Although former DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Portnoy was initially supposed to be part of the STORM CORROSION project, he did not take part in the recording sessions for the CD. "To be honest, there's just no room for drums on what we've done," Åkerfeldt told Classic Rock magazine last year. "I called Mike up, and he was cool about it. He's got so much going on anyway, and I'm sure we will work together in the future."
STORM CORROSION last year completed work on its self-titled debut album for an April 2012 release through Roadrunner Records. Apart from Mikael and Steven, the CD includes guest appearances by Gavin Harrison (PORCUPINE TREE) on drums/percussion, Ben Castle on woodwinds and Dave Stewart on string arrangements.
In a interview with Metal Injection conducted on November 11 at the Best Buy Theater in New York City, Wilson was asked how STORM CORROSION is different from his previous collaborations with Åkerfeldt. "Well, the only stuff I've collaborated with Mikael on in the past has been working on his records," Wilson replied. "This is obviously a collaboration, so it's a different approach. We sat in a room together and we wrote music together, rather than taking his music that he'd already written and working it into a record. We actually started from the very basics — composition and arranging."
He continued, "If you'd asked me three months ago about the music, I would have said, 'Expect the last thing you would expect.' But actually, now that [OPETH's new record] 'Heritage' has come out and [Steven Wilson's solo album] 'Grace Of Drowning' has come out, I don't think it's going to be that much of a shock to people, because it's almost like a third part of the trilogy, in a way. If anything, it's even more orchestral, even more stripped down, even more dark, twisted and melancholic… but it certainly feels like it comes from the same place as 'Heritage' and 'Grace For Drowning', which indeed it does because it was written during the same period — it was written during a period that he was playing the tracks that he'd written for 'Heritage' and I was playing the tracks that I had written for 'Grace Of Drowning'. So we were kind of, in a way, egging each other on, encouraging each other to do those particular records, but also at the same time coming up with this music that is now gonna be on STORM CORROSION. So it's a very orchestral record, it's very — as you'd expect — epic, the songs are quite long and they develop in quite unusual ways."
He concluded, "I'm realistic that half the people are gonna hate it and half the people probably will fall in love with it. I'd be happy with that anyway."
Although former DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Portnoy was initially supposed to be part of the STORM CORROSION project, he did not take part in the recording sessions for the CD. "To be honest, there's just no room for drums on what we've done," Åkerfeldt told Classic Rock magazine last year. "I called Mike up, and he was cool about it. He's got so much going on anyway, and I'm sure we will work together in the future."
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Former Metal Blade recording artists HERETIC have announced the addition of ex-HIRAX/REVEREND bassist Angelo Espino and drummer Ignazio Copolla to the group's ranks. The band's current lineup is rounded out by original members Julian Mendez on vocals and Brian Korban on guitar, along with new addition Glenn Rogers (ex-HIRAX) on guitar.
HERETIC is writing material for a new studio album, to be released later in the year.
According to The BNR Metal Pages, "HERETIC was a rather typical power/thrash metal band of the Eighties, managing one EP and one album before calling it a day. At least part of the reason for the band breakup was vocalist Mike Howe's departure to METAL CHURCH — ironically, the man he replaced there, David Wayne, recruited two HERETIC members for his then-new band, REVEREND."
HERETIC 2012 is:
Julian Mendez - Vocals
Brian Korban - Guitar
Angelo Espino - Bass
Glenn Rogers - Guitar
Ignazio "Iggy" Coppola - Drums
HERETIC is writing material for a new studio album, to be released later in the year.
According to The BNR Metal Pages, "HERETIC was a rather typical power/thrash metal band of the Eighties, managing one EP and one album before calling it a day. At least part of the reason for the band breakup was vocalist Mike Howe's departure to METAL CHURCH — ironically, the man he replaced there, David Wayne, recruited two HERETIC members for his then-new band, REVEREND."
HERETIC 2012 is:
Julian Mendez - Vocals
Brian Korban - Guitar
Angelo Espino - Bass
Glenn Rogers - Guitar
Ignazio "Iggy" Coppola - Drums
Former STRATOVARIUS and current SYMFONIA guitarist/songwriter Timo Tolkki has released the following statement via his official blog:
"As I am writing this on Friday morning sipping my coffee, many thoughts and feelings enter my mind.
"Ever since I published the blog about retiring from music business, many people have contacted me and asked me not to do so. That is why I decided to clarify some things and write some more about it.
"First of all, if someone got the picture that I am blaming the fans about the current situation in music business, I am really sorry. That is not at all how I think. I cherish and thank each and everyone that have given me and my music the amazing support in good and bad times.
"Secondly there have been some criticism about my decision, even some people have called me a coward.
"I know it is hard to understand what is really going on in the business at the moment. I mean, globally, in the whole world. Not just in your city.
"The signs have been there already about 10 years and, of course, this was expected. People don't buy records anymore.
"Before you rush to say, 'But I do,' let me tell you that I have a better vantage point to the whole music business globally to say this.
"There are reasons for me to act the way I do. This is not even about the quality of music in the vein of if I make bad records and people don't want to buy them.
"It really is true that the records sales are down and are going down and more and more changes will happen and they will not be for the better. The remaining record companies are extremely careful what kind of bands and music they will sign and if they sign, they will control the music and the style very aggressively.This will result to a controlled and boring system musically and ultimately could even kill the music as a physical or digital format.
"In the times of Bach and Beethoven, there were no records. The music was only heard live. But also live music suffers from declining sales because people don't have the money to see all those 30 bands in a month that come to the city. All this made me to think really hard about my future and the next 10-15 years.
"Having worked extensively in the last 20 years, I simply think it is time to evaluate what it is that I have left to say.
"I always said that I will play as long as people want to listen. But one thing has dawned me in the last few months: it doesn't matter to me if people want to listen to my music anymore. This means the ultimate freedom musically.
"Another thing is that although I have written about retirement from music business, I haven't written about retiring from music. I believe music is a gift. And this gift must be used. But sometimes it is not easy. I believe that my 22 years in
STRATOVARIUS and five CDs I have released after that, the music seminars I have held all over the world, the productions and all that goes with it are a lot. How much can you give after you have given it all?
"Anyway, I haven't given up music.
"I look at the scene and understand that I have nothing to do with what used to be so important to me, for example, when I was 30 years old.
"I believe in evolution in music and musical career. Evolution as a whole. Not picking a random record and say[ing], That sucks.' The whole body of work.
"I think that every record I ever made, has its place in the discography of my life.
"As I grow older, soon being 46, I can envision my music evolving towards goals and themes that are closer to my soul than the music I wrote when I was 32.
"I don't believe in singing about Legions of the Twilight when I am 50, but that's just me.
"I think I have a lot of music developing in me but what kind of music it is, not even I know. The future will tell, but I think you will hear from me still one day. My intuition is telling me this."
Tolkki drew up and signed an official waiver on May 20, 2008 giving up all rights to the STRATOVARIUS name. The remaining STRATOVARIUS members — Timo Kotipelto (vocals), Jens Johansson (keyboards) and Lauri Porra (bass) — have since recorded and released two additional STRATOVARIUS albums with guitarist Matias Kupiainen.
"As I am writing this on Friday morning sipping my coffee, many thoughts and feelings enter my mind.
"Ever since I published the blog about retiring from music business, many people have contacted me and asked me not to do so. That is why I decided to clarify some things and write some more about it.
"First of all, if someone got the picture that I am blaming the fans about the current situation in music business, I am really sorry. That is not at all how I think. I cherish and thank each and everyone that have given me and my music the amazing support in good and bad times.
"Secondly there have been some criticism about my decision, even some people have called me a coward.
"I know it is hard to understand what is really going on in the business at the moment. I mean, globally, in the whole world. Not just in your city.
"The signs have been there already about 10 years and, of course, this was expected. People don't buy records anymore.
"Before you rush to say, 'But I do,' let me tell you that I have a better vantage point to the whole music business globally to say this.
"There are reasons for me to act the way I do. This is not even about the quality of music in the vein of if I make bad records and people don't want to buy them.
"It really is true that the records sales are down and are going down and more and more changes will happen and they will not be for the better. The remaining record companies are extremely careful what kind of bands and music they will sign and if they sign, they will control the music and the style very aggressively.This will result to a controlled and boring system musically and ultimately could even kill the music as a physical or digital format.
"In the times of Bach and Beethoven, there were no records. The music was only heard live. But also live music suffers from declining sales because people don't have the money to see all those 30 bands in a month that come to the city. All this made me to think really hard about my future and the next 10-15 years.
"Having worked extensively in the last 20 years, I simply think it is time to evaluate what it is that I have left to say.
"I always said that I will play as long as people want to listen. But one thing has dawned me in the last few months: it doesn't matter to me if people want to listen to my music anymore. This means the ultimate freedom musically.
"Another thing is that although I have written about retirement from music business, I haven't written about retiring from music. I believe music is a gift. And this gift must be used. But sometimes it is not easy. I believe that my 22 years in
STRATOVARIUS and five CDs I have released after that, the music seminars I have held all over the world, the productions and all that goes with it are a lot. How much can you give after you have given it all?
"Anyway, I haven't given up music.
"I look at the scene and understand that I have nothing to do with what used to be so important to me, for example, when I was 30 years old.
"I believe in evolution in music and musical career. Evolution as a whole. Not picking a random record and say[ing], That sucks.' The whole body of work.
"I think that every record I ever made, has its place in the discography of my life.
"As I grow older, soon being 46, I can envision my music evolving towards goals and themes that are closer to my soul than the music I wrote when I was 32.
"I don't believe in singing about Legions of the Twilight when I am 50, but that's just me.
"I think I have a lot of music developing in me but what kind of music it is, not even I know. The future will tell, but I think you will hear from me still one day. My intuition is telling me this."
Tolkki drew up and signed an official waiver on May 20, 2008 giving up all rights to the STRATOVARIUS name. The remaining STRATOVARIUS members — Timo Kotipelto (vocals), Jens Johansson (keyboards) and Lauri Porra (bass) — have since recorded and released two additional STRATOVARIUS albums with guitarist Matias Kupiainen.
After a four-year break since her last album, Lana Lane is back with her most powerful release to date, "El Dorado Hotel". The veteran symphonic rock diva delivers a 10-song tour-de-force of finely crafted original tracks in an audiophile production by husband/keyboardist, Erik Norlander. "El Dorado Hotel" hosts Lane's usual broad spectrum of musical styles and genres with a cohesiveness that fans of the artist will recognize instantly. The opener, "A Dream Full Of Fire", is a new Lana Lane classic that blurs the line between prog metal and jazz stylings in a mélange that only she can deliver. "Maybe We'll Meet Again" is a European-styled melodic AOR radio anthem blending classic rock with modern sensibilities. The song "El Dorado" is a Lana Lane epic with a soaring chorus reminiscent of her classic, "Queen Of Ocean". The robust "Darkness Falls" introduces an Irish folk style combined with a gothic metal element with its haunting choral vocals and arena-crafted chorus. Then "Hotels" is an acoustic track that evokes jazz standards like "Autumn Leaves". The tracks "Believe", "Life Of The Party", "Gone Are The Days" and "Moon God" add further threads to the "El Dorado Hotel" tapestry. The album closes with the 11-1/2 minute opus "In Exile" that producer Erik Norlander describes as a "vintage progressive rock epic."
The musicians of "El Dorado Hotel" are a top-notch group of artists including both new and familiar faces. Lane says about the musicians, "Both Freddy DeMarco and Mark Matthews did some fantastic work on Erik's solo project, "The Galactic Collective". I then had the opportunity to play with them both during some live appearances in 2011 when I sang with the band. After having played with the guys and getting to know them, I knew that I wanted them to be a part of this project as well. Then for John Payne, Jay Schellen, Guthrie Govan and Bruce Bouillet (ex-RACER X), as you know, Erik has playing with John Payne for about five years now. When the original 1982 lineup of ASIA reformed a few years back, John Payne formed his own separate band to continue all the work that he had done with ASIA during his 14-year run and many albums with them. So John and Erik tour as "ASIA featuring John Payne," and they've probably played over a hundred shows together. Jay is the drummer in the band, and both Guthrie and Bruce have been the guitarists. Bruce is working with them currently. I of course go to a lot of their shows and have become friends with all of them. It is a great group of people, and they are all very talented musicians. Since we see them so much and Erik plays with them constantly, it was only natural to work with them on this album. And then finally for Mark McCrite, Neil Citron and Don Schiff, all three of them have been on so many Lana Lane albums going all the back to my very first album in 1995. It's great to continue working with them through all these years."
Songs for "El Dorado Hotel" were written by Lana Lane, Erik Norlander and longtime collaborator Mark McCrite, who comments, "My favorite songs on the album are 'El Dorado' (with the fantastic Spanish guitar) and 'A Dream Full of Fire' — that's a really killer 'classic' Lana Lane track."
"El Dorado Hotel" musicians:
* Lana Lane - vocals
* Erik Norlander - keyboards, additional guitars, bass and programming
With
* John Payne - harmony and choral vocals, mandolin
* Mark McCrite - guitars, bass, choral vocals, programming
* Bruce Bouillet - guitars
* Neil Citron - guitars
* Freddy DeMarco - guitars
* Guthrie Govan - guitar
* Don Schiff - NS/Stick
* Mark Matthews - bass
* Jay Schellen - drums
"El Dorado Hotel" track listing:
01. A Dream Full Of Fire [8:25]
02. Maybe We'll Meet Again [5:39]
03. El Dorado [6:12]
04. Darkness Falls [5:12]
05. Hotels [3:40]
06. Believe [6:03]
07. Life Of The Party [4:03]
08. Gone Are The Days [6:23]
09. Moon God [5:08]
10. In Exile [11:43]
"El Dorado Hotel" will be released on January 25 via Think Tank Media (Avalon in Japan).
The musicians of "El Dorado Hotel" are a top-notch group of artists including both new and familiar faces. Lane says about the musicians, "Both Freddy DeMarco and Mark Matthews did some fantastic work on Erik's solo project, "The Galactic Collective". I then had the opportunity to play with them both during some live appearances in 2011 when I sang with the band. After having played with the guys and getting to know them, I knew that I wanted them to be a part of this project as well. Then for John Payne, Jay Schellen, Guthrie Govan and Bruce Bouillet (ex-RACER X), as you know, Erik has playing with John Payne for about five years now. When the original 1982 lineup of ASIA reformed a few years back, John Payne formed his own separate band to continue all the work that he had done with ASIA during his 14-year run and many albums with them. So John and Erik tour as "ASIA featuring John Payne," and they've probably played over a hundred shows together. Jay is the drummer in the band, and both Guthrie and Bruce have been the guitarists. Bruce is working with them currently. I of course go to a lot of their shows and have become friends with all of them. It is a great group of people, and they are all very talented musicians. Since we see them so much and Erik plays with them constantly, it was only natural to work with them on this album. And then finally for Mark McCrite, Neil Citron and Don Schiff, all three of them have been on so many Lana Lane albums going all the back to my very first album in 1995. It's great to continue working with them through all these years."
Songs for "El Dorado Hotel" were written by Lana Lane, Erik Norlander and longtime collaborator Mark McCrite, who comments, "My favorite songs on the album are 'El Dorado' (with the fantastic Spanish guitar) and 'A Dream Full of Fire' — that's a really killer 'classic' Lana Lane track."
"El Dorado Hotel" musicians:
* Lana Lane - vocals
* Erik Norlander - keyboards, additional guitars, bass and programming
With
* John Payne - harmony and choral vocals, mandolin
* Mark McCrite - guitars, bass, choral vocals, programming
* Bruce Bouillet - guitars
* Neil Citron - guitars
* Freddy DeMarco - guitars
* Guthrie Govan - guitar
* Don Schiff - NS/Stick
* Mark Matthews - bass
* Jay Schellen - drums
"El Dorado Hotel" track listing:
01. A Dream Full Of Fire [8:25]
02. Maybe We'll Meet Again [5:39]
03. El Dorado [6:12]
04. Darkness Falls [5:12]
05. Hotels [3:40]
06. Believe [6:03]
07. Life Of The Party [4:03]
08. Gone Are The Days [6:23]
09. Moon God [5:08]
10. In Exile [11:43]
"El Dorado Hotel" will be released on January 25 via Think Tank Media (Avalon in Japan).
Norwegian avantgarde metallers BORKNAGAR have completed work on their new studio album with Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios (OPETH, PARADISE LOST, KATATONIA) in Örebro, Sweden. Entitled "Urd", the CD will be released on March 26 in Europe and March 27 in North America via Century Media Records.
Commented BORKNAGAR mastermind Øystein G. Brun: "Our new album, 'Urd', was finished in mid December and all in all we spent about six months to record, produce and mix it. In the 'Bork-World' this isn't really long, but I can assure you that we have never before invested so much time, energy and effort into one single production. It has been a tough, yet inspiring ride.
"Since June 2011 I have constantly been working with this album, recording, editing and so forth — day and night. The same goes for my comrades. Never before have we made an album where everybody in the band has been so heavily involved and dedicated as this time around.
"'Urd' is surely the peak of our musical journey so far and we are extremely proud to have made this giant of an album! It's massive, it's emotional, it's fast, it's slow, it's epic, and it's progressive… all the ingredients that we have crafted our musical world on! And not to mention the 'golden threesome' on vocals (Vintersorg, Mr. Vortex and Lazare) really shines on this album… Do I need to say more?!"
Regarding where the album title fits in within BORKNAGAR's historical context, Øystein explains, "Our previous album was called 'Universal' and where should we go after an album title with such a magnitude? Well, we decided to head back home to earth. We really wanted to get back to the core of the band, where it all started - the admiration and pondering about nature and mankind's place therein. 'Urd' is the name of one of the norns that according to northern mythology stands under Yggdrasill and weaves the lifeline of mankind. 'Urd' is representing the past, while 'Verdande' is representing the present and 'Skuld' is representing the future. You might very well say that this is an ancient expression of what we today know as DNA. And I have always been very fascinated by the fact that parts and bits of our DNA actually derive from the very beginning of time. All living creatures are somewhat connected to the very first organic cell. That is some of the story behind the album title…"
BORKNAGAR 2012 is:
* Øystein G. Brun (Cronian, ex-Molested) – Clean and Electric Guitar
* Vintersorg (VINTERSORG, FISSION) - Grim Vocals, Clean Vocals and Choirs
* Lars A. Nedland (SOLEFALD, ex-CARPATHIAN FOREST) - Keyboards, Clean Vocals, Choirs
* Jens F. Ryland (ICS VORTEX) - Lead Guitar
* ICS Vortex (ex-DIMNMU BORGIR, ARCTURUS, ICS VORTEX) - Bass, Clean Vocals and Choirs
Drums and percussion on "Urd" were performed by David Kinkade (SOULFLY, ex-MALEVOLENT CREATION).
Commented BORKNAGAR mastermind Øystein G. Brun: "Our new album, 'Urd', was finished in mid December and all in all we spent about six months to record, produce and mix it. In the 'Bork-World' this isn't really long, but I can assure you that we have never before invested so much time, energy and effort into one single production. It has been a tough, yet inspiring ride.
"Since June 2011 I have constantly been working with this album, recording, editing and so forth — day and night. The same goes for my comrades. Never before have we made an album where everybody in the band has been so heavily involved and dedicated as this time around.
"'Urd' is surely the peak of our musical journey so far and we are extremely proud to have made this giant of an album! It's massive, it's emotional, it's fast, it's slow, it's epic, and it's progressive… all the ingredients that we have crafted our musical world on! And not to mention the 'golden threesome' on vocals (Vintersorg, Mr. Vortex and Lazare) really shines on this album… Do I need to say more?!"
Regarding where the album title fits in within BORKNAGAR's historical context, Øystein explains, "Our previous album was called 'Universal' and where should we go after an album title with such a magnitude? Well, we decided to head back home to earth. We really wanted to get back to the core of the band, where it all started - the admiration and pondering about nature and mankind's place therein. 'Urd' is the name of one of the norns that according to northern mythology stands under Yggdrasill and weaves the lifeline of mankind. 'Urd' is representing the past, while 'Verdande' is representing the present and 'Skuld' is representing the future. You might very well say that this is an ancient expression of what we today know as DNA. And I have always been very fascinated by the fact that parts and bits of our DNA actually derive from the very beginning of time. All living creatures are somewhat connected to the very first organic cell. That is some of the story behind the album title…"
BORKNAGAR 2012 is:
* Øystein G. Brun (Cronian, ex-Molested) – Clean and Electric Guitar
* Vintersorg (VINTERSORG, FISSION) - Grim Vocals, Clean Vocals and Choirs
* Lars A. Nedland (SOLEFALD, ex-CARPATHIAN FOREST) - Keyboards, Clean Vocals, Choirs
* Jens F. Ryland (ICS VORTEX) - Lead Guitar
* ICS Vortex (ex-DIMNMU BORGIR, ARCTURUS, ICS VORTEX) - Bass, Clean Vocals and Choirs
Drums and percussion on "Urd" were performed by David Kinkade (SOULFLY, ex-MALEVOLENT CREATION).
British metallers ARCHITECTS have entered Outhouse Studios in Reading with producer John Mitchell to begin recording their new album for a late spring release via Century Media Records.
At the end of next month, ARCHITECTS willl release the "The Here And Now 2012 Special Edition" including "Devil's Island" and "Untitled" as well as all video clips ("Day In Day Out", "Learn To Live", "Heartburn", "Delete, Rewind" and "An Open Letter To Myself"), making-of footage for "Learn To Live" and "Heartburn" plus several previously released online clips.
"The Here And Now 2012 Special Edition" release dates:
Germany, Austria, Switzerland: Friday, February 24
U.K., Benelux, France: Monday, February 27
Australia, New Zealand: Friday, March 2
ARCHITECTS has just announced the second leg of its U.K./Ireland headlining tour with ROLO TOMASSI and STRAY FROM THE PATH.
Commented ARCHITECTS: "We're absolutely delighted to be hitting up some of the towns we've been neglecting over the last few years!
"Quite a few people were upset when or last tour was only five dates so this tour is our way of saying sorry! We'll be releasing our album shortly after, so it'll be our first opportunity to showcase new material, too, which is always an exciting prospect for us.
"We're delighted to bring along our friends ROLO TOMASSI and STRAY FROM THE PATH, who are both fine young groups."
ARCHITECTS' latest album, "The Here And Now", sold around 900 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 47 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 Here And Now" was produced by Steve Evetts, who has previously worked with THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN and SEPULTURA, among many others.
"The Here And Now" debuted at position No. 57 on the official U.K. chart.
At the end of next month, ARCHITECTS willl release the "The Here And Now 2012 Special Edition" including "Devil's Island" and "Untitled" as well as all video clips ("Day In Day Out", "Learn To Live", "Heartburn", "Delete, Rewind" and "An Open Letter To Myself"), making-of footage for "Learn To Live" and "Heartburn" plus several previously released online clips.
"The Here And Now 2012 Special Edition" release dates:
Germany, Austria, Switzerland: Friday, February 24
U.K., Benelux, France: Monday, February 27
Australia, New Zealand: Friday, March 2
ARCHITECTS has just announced the second leg of its U.K./Ireland headlining tour with ROLO TOMASSI and STRAY FROM THE PATH.
Commented ARCHITECTS: "We're absolutely delighted to be hitting up some of the towns we've been neglecting over the last few years!
"Quite a few people were upset when or last tour was only five dates so this tour is our way of saying sorry! We'll be releasing our album shortly after, so it'll be our first opportunity to showcase new material, too, which is always an exciting prospect for us.
"We're delighted to bring along our friends ROLO TOMASSI and STRAY FROM THE PATH, who are both fine young groups."
ARCHITECTS' latest album, "The Here And Now", sold around 900 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 47 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 Here And Now" was produced by Steve Evetts, who has previously worked with THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN and SEPULTURA, among many others.
"The Here And Now" debuted at position No. 57 on the official U.K. chart.
OATH OF INSANITY, the Milford, Connecticut-based old-school thrash band featuring 16-year-old drummer Joey DiBiase (son of former FATES WARNING bassist Joe DiBiase), has completed work on a five-song EP with producer (and drummer for TOXIC HOLOCAUST, KINGDOM OF SORROW and JASTA) Nick Bellmore at Dexters Lab Recording in Milford. The effort contains four original songs as well as a cover version of the EXODUS classic "Metal Command". Since the EP was recorded, OATH OF INSANITY has written four more songs, which "show great progress in [the band's] songwriting prowess," according to a press release.
OATH OF INSANITY's lineup includes 21-year-old guitar prodigy Joey Concepcion, who has previously recorded with Mike Vescera, former lead singer for LOUDNESS, OBSESSION, and YNGWIE MALMSTEEN. The band is rounded out by Dan McVerry on vocals and bass guitar, and newcomer Andrew O'Conner on guitar.
OATH OF INSANITY is:
Dan McVerry - Bass/Lead Vocals
Joey Concepcion - Guitar/Vocals
Joey "Chief" DiBiase - Drums/Vocals
Andrew O'Connor - Guitar
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/OathofInsanity.
OATH OF INSANITY's lineup includes 21-year-old guitar prodigy Joey Concepcion, who has previously recorded with Mike Vescera, former lead singer for LOUDNESS, OBSESSION, and YNGWIE MALMSTEEN. The band is rounded out by Dan McVerry on vocals and bass guitar, and newcomer Andrew O'Conner on guitar.
OATH OF INSANITY is:
Dan McVerry - Bass/Lead Vocals
Joey Concepcion - Guitar/Vocals
Joey "Chief" DiBiase - Drums/Vocals
Andrew O'Connor - Guitar
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/OathofInsanity.
Alex Rudinger (THREAT SIGNAL) and Hannes Grossmann (OBSCURA, BLOTTED SCIENCE) have been added to the list of musicians who will contribute to "Volume 1", the debut album from STAR MONARCHY, the new project launched by bassist Ray Riendeau (HALFORD, JAMES LABRIE). The release will feature songs written by Ray and some collaborations with other artists. It will be recorded by an ongoing cast of players/singers in various metal genres.
"Volume 1" will feature the following musicians:
* Ray Riendeau (JAMES LABRIE, HALFORD) - Bass
* Francesco Artusato (ALL SHALL PERISH) - Guitar
* Björn "Speed" Strid (SOILWORK) - Vocals
* Dan Tompkins (TESSERACT) - Vocals
* Rody Walker (PROTEST THE HERO) - Vocals
* Danny Handler (THE BETTER DEATH) - Drums
* Peter Wildoer (DARKANE, JAMES LABRIE) - Drums
* Travis Orbin (PERIPHERY, SKY EATS AIRPLANE) - Drums
* Alex Rudinger (THREAT SIGNAL) – Drums
* Hannes Grossmann (OBSCURA, BLOTTED SCIENCE) - Drums
* Sean Dailey (THE BETTER DEATH) - Vocals
* Derek Taylor (STARA ZAGORA) - Guitar
* Thomas Pulda (ANOMALY) - Screams
STAR MONARCHY's first single, "Monarchy", was released last October via iTunes and can be streamed at this location. The track, which was mixed and mastered by Derek Taylor at Milo studios in Texas, features Tompkins on vocals, Artusato on guitar, Riendeau on bass and guitar and Handler on drums.
"Volume 1" will feature the following musicians:
* Ray Riendeau (JAMES LABRIE, HALFORD) - Bass
* Francesco Artusato (ALL SHALL PERISH) - Guitar
* Björn "Speed" Strid (SOILWORK) - Vocals
* Dan Tompkins (TESSERACT) - Vocals
* Rody Walker (PROTEST THE HERO) - Vocals
* Danny Handler (THE BETTER DEATH) - Drums
* Peter Wildoer (DARKANE, JAMES LABRIE) - Drums
* Travis Orbin (PERIPHERY, SKY EATS AIRPLANE) - Drums
* Alex Rudinger (THREAT SIGNAL) – Drums
* Hannes Grossmann (OBSCURA, BLOTTED SCIENCE) - Drums
* Sean Dailey (THE BETTER DEATH) - Vocals
* Derek Taylor (STARA ZAGORA) - Guitar
* Thomas Pulda (ANOMALY) - Screams
STAR MONARCHY's first single, "Monarchy", was released last October via iTunes and can be streamed at this location. The track, which was mixed and mastered by Derek Taylor at Milo studios in Texas, features Tompkins on vocals, Artusato on guitar, Riendeau on bass and guitar and Handler on drums.
Former MEGADETH guitarist Marty Friedman has posted the following end-of-year message on his official web site:
"As you all know, 2011 has been a tough year for Japan. However, through the hardships so many people have taken opportunities to show their grace, compassion, power and strength. It is easy to look good when things are going well, but when times are tough, that is when actions really show one's character.
"As an 'outsider' living in a culture different from the one I was born into, it was quite a learning experience to watch Japan's recovery from disaster. I believe people all around the world had their eyes on Japan and will from now on see Japan as a role model of sorts, particularly when it comes to dealing with a disaster in a civilized and dignified manner.
"In spite of (and possibly due to in part) the disaster bringing the entertainment world to a near standstill for part of 2011, the year brought some of the happiest, most uplifting and power charged music I have ever heard. When I hear the music coming out of this country, I'm super proud to be making my own contribution to it.
"Let 2012 allow us to use the lessons we have learned in 2011 to enjoy and appreciate life every day as best we can. I see myself making a lot of new music and a whole lot of noise in 2012, and appreciate every single one of you who will join me for the ride.
"May 2012 be the best year all of you have ever had, wishing an abundance of health, happiness and success.
"Now that's enough of the serious talk, let's set our phasers on stun and rock this place hard!!!"
Friedman's new solo album, "Tokyo Jukebox 2", was released in Japan on September 14, 2011 via Avex. The CD picks up where Friedman's 2009 effort, "Tokyo Jukebox", left off, with even more adventurous arrangements of his favorite Japanese songs. Recorded at The Village Recorder in Los Angeles, the album features Jason Bittner (SHADOWS FALL) on drums.
"Tokyo Jukebox 2" stretches the boundaries of guitar interpretation beyond anything Marty has released to date.
"As you all know, 2011 has been a tough year for Japan. However, through the hardships so many people have taken opportunities to show their grace, compassion, power and strength. It is easy to look good when things are going well, but when times are tough, that is when actions really show one's character.
"As an 'outsider' living in a culture different from the one I was born into, it was quite a learning experience to watch Japan's recovery from disaster. I believe people all around the world had their eyes on Japan and will from now on see Japan as a role model of sorts, particularly when it comes to dealing with a disaster in a civilized and dignified manner.
"In spite of (and possibly due to in part) the disaster bringing the entertainment world to a near standstill for part of 2011, the year brought some of the happiest, most uplifting and power charged music I have ever heard. When I hear the music coming out of this country, I'm super proud to be making my own contribution to it.
"Let 2012 allow us to use the lessons we have learned in 2011 to enjoy and appreciate life every day as best we can. I see myself making a lot of new music and a whole lot of noise in 2012, and appreciate every single one of you who will join me for the ride.
"May 2012 be the best year all of you have ever had, wishing an abundance of health, happiness and success.
"Now that's enough of the serious talk, let's set our phasers on stun and rock this place hard!!!"
Friedman's new solo album, "Tokyo Jukebox 2", was released in Japan on September 14, 2011 via Avex. The CD picks up where Friedman's 2009 effort, "Tokyo Jukebox", left off, with even more adventurous arrangements of his favorite Japanese songs. Recorded at The Village Recorder in Los Angeles, the album features Jason Bittner (SHADOWS FALL) on drums.
"Tokyo Jukebox 2" stretches the boundaries of guitar interpretation beyond anything Marty has released to date.
Norway's blackened thrashers AURA NOIR will release their fifth full-length studio ablum, "Out To Die", on March 23 via Indie Recordings.
Speaking to Terrorizer magazine shortly after a recent listening session in Oslo, AURA NOIR guitarist/vocalist Aggressor stated about the band's new CD, "It feels right. That's all I can say really. I'm not sitting here digging it; it's more like I'm content with having the finished product there, and now we can go play live. Because I think our music comes into its element when we're playing live. For me, a new album is like, 'Okay, we have more songs to play live now.'"
"Out To Die" marks the return of guitarist Rune Eriksen (a.k.a. ex-MAYHEM guitarist/songwriter Blasphemer), who now resides in Portugal and leads his own band AVA INFERI. Eriksen made several trips back to Norway to work on the new AURA NOIR songs with Aggressor and Apollyon (guitar, bass, vocals, drums; also bassist in IMMORTAL).
"I wish we were all living in the same apartment and rehearsing every day, all three of us together, but obviously that's not possible because we have our private lives and everything," Aggressor told Terrorizer. "But it brought about some new ways of working, and it actually worked out okay in the end."
"Out To Die" track listing:
01. Trenches
02. Fed To The Flames
03. Abbadon
04. The Grin From The Gallows
05. Withheld
06. Priest's Hellish Fiend
07. Deathwish
08. Out To Die
Speaking to Terrorizer magazine shortly after a recent listening session in Oslo, AURA NOIR guitarist/vocalist Aggressor stated about the band's new CD, "It feels right. That's all I can say really. I'm not sitting here digging it; it's more like I'm content with having the finished product there, and now we can go play live. Because I think our music comes into its element when we're playing live. For me, a new album is like, 'Okay, we have more songs to play live now.'"
"Out To Die" marks the return of guitarist Rune Eriksen (a.k.a. ex-MAYHEM guitarist/songwriter Blasphemer), who now resides in Portugal and leads his own band AVA INFERI. Eriksen made several trips back to Norway to work on the new AURA NOIR songs with Aggressor and Apollyon (guitar, bass, vocals, drums; also bassist in IMMORTAL).
"I wish we were all living in the same apartment and rehearsing every day, all three of us together, but obviously that's not possible because we have our private lives and everything," Aggressor told Terrorizer. "But it brought about some new ways of working, and it actually worked out okay in the end."
"Out To Die" track listing:
01. Trenches
02. Fed To The Flames
03. Abbadon
04. The Grin From The Gallows
05. Withheld
06. Priest's Hellish Fiend
07. Deathwish
08. Out To Die
Ben Kuzay (MONSTROSITY, WYKKED WYTCH) just released his third solo album, "Beyond Black Mirrors". His previous LP, "Perpetual Reign", featured guest appearances by several acclaimed musicians, including David Harbour (ex-KING DIAMOND). This new CD features Kuzay playing all of the bass guitar, keyboards and guitar, with Allen Sklar on drums. The disc was produced by Kuzay and engineered, mixed, and mastered by Joel Wanasek at JTW Studios (ROSALINE, SERIANNA, MECHANICAL KIDS), as were his first two offerings. "Beyond Black Mirrors" had additional engineering done by Barry Kuzay at The Wolf Tower.
While Kuzay is best known for his work in the metal genre, having played alongside such illuminaries as Richard Christy, David Harbour, and Joel Wanasek, and having worked with engineers such as Jason Suecof (Audiohammer Studio), this new offering is a work of ambient rock, with forays into classical.
"Beyond Black Mirrors" is an all-instrumental effort that features fourteen tracks with a running time of 56 minutes.
For more information, visit BenKuzay.net.
While Kuzay is best known for his work in the metal genre, having played alongside such illuminaries as Richard Christy, David Harbour, and Joel Wanasek, and having worked with engineers such as Jason Suecof (Audiohammer Studio), this new offering is a work of ambient rock, with forays into classical.
"Beyond Black Mirrors" is an all-instrumental effort that features fourteen tracks with a running time of 56 minutes.
For more information, visit BenKuzay.net.
ZERO1, the hard rock project featuring actor/comedian Hal Sparks, has signed a worldwide recording deal with Rocket Science Ventures/RED. The band's self-titled album, which was produced by KING'S X's Doug Pinnick, will be re-released in March.
Best known for his roles in the hit Showtime series "Queer As Folk", as the host of E!'s "Talk Soup" and as a commentator on VH1 fare, including "I Love The '70s", "'80s", "'90s", "Greatest Hard Rock Songs", and many more, Sparks is also an accomplished film actor, with appearances in "Dude, Where's My Car?", "Spider-Man 2", "Dickie Roberts: Child Star", and the 2009 Mike Judge vehicle "Extract", as well as his own recent Showtime stand-up special, "Charmageddon".
Sparks is an outspoken activist and a strong political voice, as a regular guest host on the syndicated "The Stephanie Miller Show", and host of his own weekly talk program on Chicago's Progressive Talk network. Hal is also a regular guest on CNN, "The View", "The Joy Behar Show", "The Tonight Show", and more, and is co-headliner of 2011's "Sexy Liberals Tour", with Stephanie Miller, grossing over a million dollars in ticket sales.
But despite his achievements as an actor and a comedian, ZERO1 is far from a celebrity "vanity" project; it is a serious, ass-kicking, rock and roll band, with no shortage of chops. Produced by Pinnick (who also appears on several tracks), "Zero1" is 13 cuts of "progressive, catchy-as-fuck, balls to the wall, blue-collar hard rock," according to a press release. "Call it metal, call it rock, call it post-grunge, call it whatever the hell you want, the bottom line is ZERO1 will kick your ass, and they won't stop once you hit the ground."
On tracks like "Mad Season", written about late ALICE IN CHAINS vocalist Layne Staley, and "Helsinki", vocalist/guitarist Sparks belts out powerful, thought-provoking lyrics with the conviction of a seasoned pro (as anyone who saw him trading verses with Dennis De Young and Sebastian Bach on "Celebrity Duets" will attest), destroying any preconceived notions you may have about actor/musicians. Sparks is a consummate frontman, musician, and songwriter, hell-bent on destroying your speakers.
Along with the rest of ZERO1 — Brian Crow (guitar/vocals), Bumper Renga (bass/vocals), and Lance Tamanaha (drums/vocals) — Sparks will hit the road in May for a month-long U.S. jaunt with THC/Rocket Science labelmates OEDIPUS, before a trek across the pond for a handful of major summer festivals.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/zero1nation.
Best known for his roles in the hit Showtime series "Queer As Folk", as the host of E!'s "Talk Soup" and as a commentator on VH1 fare, including "I Love The '70s", "'80s", "'90s", "Greatest Hard Rock Songs", and many more, Sparks is also an accomplished film actor, with appearances in "Dude, Where's My Car?", "Spider-Man 2", "Dickie Roberts: Child Star", and the 2009 Mike Judge vehicle "Extract", as well as his own recent Showtime stand-up special, "Charmageddon".
Sparks is an outspoken activist and a strong political voice, as a regular guest host on the syndicated "The Stephanie Miller Show", and host of his own weekly talk program on Chicago's Progressive Talk network. Hal is also a regular guest on CNN, "The View", "The Joy Behar Show", "The Tonight Show", and more, and is co-headliner of 2011's "Sexy Liberals Tour", with Stephanie Miller, grossing over a million dollars in ticket sales.
But despite his achievements as an actor and a comedian, ZERO1 is far from a celebrity "vanity" project; it is a serious, ass-kicking, rock and roll band, with no shortage of chops. Produced by Pinnick (who also appears on several tracks), "Zero1" is 13 cuts of "progressive, catchy-as-fuck, balls to the wall, blue-collar hard rock," according to a press release. "Call it metal, call it rock, call it post-grunge, call it whatever the hell you want, the bottom line is ZERO1 will kick your ass, and they won't stop once you hit the ground."
On tracks like "Mad Season", written about late ALICE IN CHAINS vocalist Layne Staley, and "Helsinki", vocalist/guitarist Sparks belts out powerful, thought-provoking lyrics with the conviction of a seasoned pro (as anyone who saw him trading verses with Dennis De Young and Sebastian Bach on "Celebrity Duets" will attest), destroying any preconceived notions you may have about actor/musicians. Sparks is a consummate frontman, musician, and songwriter, hell-bent on destroying your speakers.
Along with the rest of ZERO1 — Brian Crow (guitar/vocals), Bumper Renga (bass/vocals), and Lance Tamanaha (drums/vocals) — Sparks will hit the road in May for a month-long U.S. jaunt with THC/Rocket Science labelmates OEDIPUS, before a trek across the pond for a handful of major summer festivals.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/zero1nation.
"Hatred", a brand new song from Norway's EL CACO, is available for streaming on the band's Facebook page. The song comes off the group's new album, "Hatred, Love & Diagrams", which is scheduled for release on January 27 in Europe and January 31 in North America via Indie Recordings.
Commented EL CACO: "'Hatred' is our first single from the upcoming album 'Hatred, Love & Diagrams'. It has a pretty rigid beat around 125 bpm and that is not very usual in the EL CACO camp. So, you can say 'Hatred' is a bit different but at the same time EL CACO made."
"Hatred, Love & Diagrams" track listing:
01. After I'm Gone
02. Hatred
03. Autopsy
04. Equivalence
05. Go Forward
06. Confessions
07. Sixty To Zero
08. Skeleton
09. She Said
10. Disconnect
EL CACO has been an institution and a well-kept secret in the Norwegian music scene for the past decade. The band's music is a culmination of three very talented individuals, each with a very eclectic taste in music. Inspired by the best, but never stripping themselves of their own unique identity, they have the rare ability to grasp the finer elements of their influences and mould them into their own diverse sound.
On their new album, EL CACO "push the envelope even further than they have done before," according to a press release. "Having explored the melodic aspects of rock and metal for more than a decade, this album shows us yet another side of this multi layered band. With an organic and natural sound the trio displays true musicianship and great songwriting skills on this 10-track album which is their definitive peak, their Opus Magna. It sounds more like a band than most other bands. A true organic unit moving fluently with the songs, expressing the underlying emotions through their instruments in a way we know from the greater bands of history."
Commented EL CACO: "'Hatred' is our first single from the upcoming album 'Hatred, Love & Diagrams'. It has a pretty rigid beat around 125 bpm and that is not very usual in the EL CACO camp. So, you can say 'Hatred' is a bit different but at the same time EL CACO made."
"Hatred, Love & Diagrams" track listing:
01. After I'm Gone
02. Hatred
03. Autopsy
04. Equivalence
05. Go Forward
06. Confessions
07. Sixty To Zero
08. Skeleton
09. She Said
10. Disconnect
EL CACO has been an institution and a well-kept secret in the Norwegian music scene for the past decade. The band's music is a culmination of three very talented individuals, each with a very eclectic taste in music. Inspired by the best, but never stripping themselves of their own unique identity, they have the rare ability to grasp the finer elements of their influences and mould them into their own diverse sound.
On their new album, EL CACO "push the envelope even further than they have done before," according to a press release. "Having explored the melodic aspects of rock and metal for more than a decade, this album shows us yet another side of this multi layered band. With an organic and natural sound the trio displays true musicianship and great songwriting skills on this 10-track album which is their definitive peak, their Opus Magna. It sounds more like a band than most other bands. A true organic unit moving fluently with the songs, expressing the underlying emotions through their instruments in a way we know from the greater bands of history."
Finnish cinematic extreme metallers CHAOSWEAVER have inked a worldwide deal with Napalm Records. The band has completed work on its second album, due later in the year.
Commented the group: "We are thrilled and honored to join the Napalm family, the home of some of our favorite bands such as TIAMAT, SUMMONING and CANDLEMASS. Cooperation with such a notable and capable label, which shares our vision, is exactly what we were looking for. With the help of our new allies, our dark symphonies will be heard all around the globe. Let the pandemonium spread like wildfire in an ocean of gasoline!"
CHAOSWEAVER's debut album, "Puppetmaster Of Pandemonium", was released in April 2008 via Shadow World Records and distributed by Playground Music Scandinavia in Finland, Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia. The CD featured guest appearances by Jules Näveri (PROFANE OMEN, ENEMY OF THE SUN), Rotten (ex-DEATHCHAIN, SURVIVORS ZERO), Aleksi Munter (SWALLOW THE SUN) and Ville Sorvali (MOONSORROW).
Commented the group: "We are thrilled and honored to join the Napalm family, the home of some of our favorite bands such as TIAMAT, SUMMONING and CANDLEMASS. Cooperation with such a notable and capable label, which shares our vision, is exactly what we were looking for. With the help of our new allies, our dark symphonies will be heard all around the globe. Let the pandemonium spread like wildfire in an ocean of gasoline!"
CHAOSWEAVER's debut album, "Puppetmaster Of Pandemonium", was released in April 2008 via Shadow World Records and distributed by Playground Music Scandinavia in Finland, Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia. The CD featured guest appearances by Jules Näveri (PROFANE OMEN, ENEMY OF THE SUN), Rotten (ex-DEATHCHAIN, SURVIVORS ZERO), Aleksi Munter (SWALLOW THE SUN) and Ville Sorvali (MOONSORROW).
Legendary Swedish death metallers GRAVE entered their own Studio Soulless last weekend to begin recording their new album, tentatively titled "Endless Procession Of Souls". The band is laying down 12 songs — nine new tracks plus three "very special" cuts — for the CD, which will be released mid-2012 via Century Media Records.
Commented GRAVE guitarist/vocalist Ola Lindgren: "[The recording sessions have] been going very well and [the stuff] sounds killer already at this early stage with only drums and bass tracks done. I would describe it as a mix of our latest two releases with some more old-school, groovy 'Soulless' parts."
GRAVE recently parted ways with its guitarist of three years, Magnus Martinsson.
GRAVE's current lineup is as follows:
Ola Lindgren - Guitar/Vocals
Mika Lagrén - Guitar
Ronnie Bergerstål - Drums
Tobias Cristiansson – Bass
GRAVE's November 12, 2011 concert at Club Distortion/Kulturhuset in Stockholm, Sweden was filmed for future release. The band celebrated the 20th anniversary of its classic 1991 debut album, "Into The Grave", by performing the LP in its entirety, along with "another handful classic tunes."
GRAVE in September completed a North American headlining tour with support from BLOOD RED THRONE, PATHOLOGY and GIGAN.
Commented GRAVE guitarist/vocalist Ola Lindgren: "[The recording sessions have] been going very well and [the stuff] sounds killer already at this early stage with only drums and bass tracks done. I would describe it as a mix of our latest two releases with some more old-school, groovy 'Soulless' parts."
GRAVE recently parted ways with its guitarist of three years, Magnus Martinsson.
GRAVE's current lineup is as follows:
Ola Lindgren - Guitar/Vocals
Mika Lagrén - Guitar
Ronnie Bergerstål - Drums
Tobias Cristiansson – Bass
GRAVE's November 12, 2011 concert at Club Distortion/Kulturhuset in Stockholm, Sweden was filmed for future release. The band celebrated the 20th anniversary of its classic 1991 debut album, "Into The Grave", by performing the LP in its entirety, along with "another handful classic tunes."
GRAVE in September completed a North American headlining tour with support from BLOOD RED THRONE, PATHOLOGY and GIGAN.
Reactivated Swedish death/thrash metallers THE CROWN held their first rehearsal with returning vocalist Johan Lindstrand on Thursday, January 12.
Says Johan: "It was really awesome.
"We warmed up with some classics before taking on some new kick-ass material.
"We started to play the new song 'Headhunter' as a full band and it really felt great to hear everything such as vocals and leads for the first time. The song was already impressive as an instrumental demo track, but now all the pieces fell in place and made what easily could be a great opener of the next album. Time will tell.
"To finish up the rehearsal, we messed around with another new song written by Magnus [Olsfelt, bass]. A great intense track which takes you back to the good old days. I fucked up some lyric lines on this one as well. Better next time I guess.
"Now we have like 5-6 songs and I believe a masterpiece is on the way. But in typical THE CROWN, way we do not hurry this shit up. We wanna create something special so it might take a while to get it out. Only the best is good enough."
Several photos of yesterday's rehearsal taken by Lindstrand can be seen below.
THE CROWN's current lineup:
Johan Lindstrand - Vocals
Magnus Olsfelt - Bass
Marko Tervonen - Rhythm Guitar
Janne Saarenpää - Drums
Marcus Sunesson - Lead Guitar
THE CROWN's latest album, "Doomsday King", came out in September 2010 via Century Media Records. The CD was the group's first — and only — release to feature vocalist Jonas Stålhammar.
Says Johan: "It was really awesome.
"We warmed up with some classics before taking on some new kick-ass material.
"We started to play the new song 'Headhunter' as a full band and it really felt great to hear everything such as vocals and leads for the first time. The song was already impressive as an instrumental demo track, but now all the pieces fell in place and made what easily could be a great opener of the next album. Time will tell.
"To finish up the rehearsal, we messed around with another new song written by Magnus [Olsfelt, bass]. A great intense track which takes you back to the good old days. I fucked up some lyric lines on this one as well. Better next time I guess.
"Now we have like 5-6 songs and I believe a masterpiece is on the way. But in typical THE CROWN, way we do not hurry this shit up. We wanna create something special so it might take a while to get it out. Only the best is good enough."
Several photos of yesterday's rehearsal taken by Lindstrand can be seen below.
THE CROWN's current lineup:
Johan Lindstrand - Vocals
Magnus Olsfelt - Bass
Marko Tervonen - Rhythm Guitar
Janne Saarenpää - Drums
Marcus Sunesson - Lead Guitar
THE CROWN's latest album, "Doomsday King", came out in September 2010 via Century Media Records. The CD was the group's first — and only — release to feature vocalist Jonas Stålhammar.
Swedish death metallers EVOCATION have inked a deal with Century Media Records. The band will enter the studio soon to record the follow-up to 2010's "Apocalyptic" for a fall 2012 release. In addition, Century Media will issue a compilation of EVOCATION's entire demo discography, plus additional footage, comments, liner notes, exclusive artwork and unreleased songs. A summer 2012 release is expected.
Commented EVOCATION guitarist Marko Palmén: "It's time to kick in the year of the apocalypse with the writing of a new chapter and a new era in EVOCATION's history.
"We are very pleased to announce that we have signed a new worldwide recording agreement with Century Media Records. The label feels for us as a natural choice and a perfect partner due to their long experience and commitment with the death metal scene. To become a part of the Century Media family feels for us as coming home. Huge thanx to Jens Prüter, Philipp Schulte, Stefan Franke and [the rest of] Century Media for making this happen!"
Philipp Schulte, A&R Century Media Records Europe, states: "We are very happy to add EVOCATION to the Century Media roster. Century Media's roots are and will always be in the death metal scene. Death metal built up the label's base and reputation and has been our back bone ever since. With EVOCATION we are solidifying the base even further. EVOCATION have proven to be able to deliver outstandingly good material and we therefore are very much looking forward to the release of the new album. Welcome aboard!"
Pictured below: EVOCATION with Christian Sakowitz (booking at Continental Concerts), Philipp Schulte (A&R at Century Media Records) and Stefan Franke (promotion at Century Media Records)
Commented EVOCATION guitarist Marko Palmén: "It's time to kick in the year of the apocalypse with the writing of a new chapter and a new era in EVOCATION's history.
"We are very pleased to announce that we have signed a new worldwide recording agreement with Century Media Records. The label feels for us as a natural choice and a perfect partner due to their long experience and commitment with the death metal scene. To become a part of the Century Media family feels for us as coming home. Huge thanx to Jens Prüter, Philipp Schulte, Stefan Franke and [the rest of] Century Media for making this happen!"
Philipp Schulte, A&R Century Media Records Europe, states: "We are very happy to add EVOCATION to the Century Media roster. Century Media's roots are and will always be in the death metal scene. Death metal built up the label's base and reputation and has been our back bone ever since. With EVOCATION we are solidifying the base even further. EVOCATION have proven to be able to deliver outstandingly good material and we therefore are very much looking forward to the release of the new album. Welcome aboard!"
Pictured below: EVOCATION with Christian Sakowitz (booking at Continental Concerts), Philipp Schulte (A&R at Century Media Records) and Stefan Franke (promotion at Century Media Records)
Long-running Polish death metallers LOST SOUL have announced the addition of drummer Paul Jaroszewicz (CHRIST AGONY, ex-VADER) and guitarist Marek Golas (SAMMATH NAUR) to the group's ranks.
LOST SOUL's new lineup is as follows:
Jacek Grecki - Vocals, Guitar
Marek Golas - Guitar
Damian Czajkowski - Bass
Paul Jaroszewicz - Drums
LOST SOUL has completed work on its anniversary album, "Genesis - XX Years of ChaoZ". The CD will be made available later this year.
LOST SOUL's fourth album, "Immerse In Infinity", was released in 2009 via Witching Hour Productions. The effort contained "eight crushing anthems (57 minutes) of monumental extreme death metal in vein of NILE, HATE ETERNAL and VITAL REMAINS," according to a press release.
A video for the song "216" — taken from "Immerse In Infinity" — can be seen below. The clip was filmed at the 2010 edition of the Brutal Assault festival in the Czech Republic.
LOST SOUL's new lineup is as follows:
Jacek Grecki - Vocals, Guitar
Marek Golas - Guitar
Damian Czajkowski - Bass
Paul Jaroszewicz - Drums
LOST SOUL has completed work on its anniversary album, "Genesis - XX Years of ChaoZ". The CD will be made available later this year.
LOST SOUL's fourth album, "Immerse In Infinity", was released in 2009 via Witching Hour Productions. The effort contained "eight crushing anthems (57 minutes) of monumental extreme death metal in vein of NILE, HATE ETERNAL and VITAL REMAINS," according to a press release.
A video for the song "216" — taken from "Immerse In Infinity" — can be seen below. The clip was filmed at the 2010 edition of the Brutal Assault festival in the Czech Republic.
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