Longtime RUSH friend and photographer Andrew MacNaughtan died of a heart attack while on assignment with the band in Los Angeles.
In a statement, the members of the group said, "We're deeply shocked and heartbroken to learn of the sudden passing of our close friend and longtime photographer, Andrew MacNaughtan. He was a sweet person and a very talented artist. Words cannot describe how much he will be missed."
MacNaughtan, a four-time Juno Award winner (for RUSH, OUR LADY PEACE, Tom Cochrane and Jann Arden), had worked with RUSH as a photographer and videographer since the 1980s.
MacNaughtan travelled to Tanzania and Kenya in November 2010 with the purpose of capturing the spirit and beauty of the landscapes, wildlife and people to raise funds for the prevention, care and advocacy of children in HIV/AIDS-affected regions. The idea to use these photographs in a book was taken a step further when MacNaughtan enlisted the help of friends in the recording industry to lend poetic voice to the images. More than 30 artists including Celine Dion, Michael Bublé, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson, Bryan Adams, Annie Lennox, Daniel Lanois, Hedley, Bruce Cockburn, Fefe Dobson, Ed Robertson, Jann Arden, Serena Ryder, Lights, Nikki Yanofsky and Tom Cochrane, to name a few, graciously provided commentary to photos that inspired them.
Through ArtGivesHope, a charity founded by MacNaughtan in 2006, the sales of the limited edition images and book support World Vision's Hope Program.
To see a sampling of the photographs, visit artgiveshope.ca.
In a statement, the members of the group said, "We're deeply shocked and heartbroken to learn of the sudden passing of our close friend and longtime photographer, Andrew MacNaughtan. He was a sweet person and a very talented artist. Words cannot describe how much he will be missed."
MacNaughtan, a four-time Juno Award winner (for RUSH, OUR LADY PEACE, Tom Cochrane and Jann Arden), had worked with RUSH as a photographer and videographer since the 1980s.
MacNaughtan travelled to Tanzania and Kenya in November 2010 with the purpose of capturing the spirit and beauty of the landscapes, wildlife and people to raise funds for the prevention, care and advocacy of children in HIV/AIDS-affected regions. The idea to use these photographs in a book was taken a step further when MacNaughtan enlisted the help of friends in the recording industry to lend poetic voice to the images. More than 30 artists including Celine Dion, Michael Bublé, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson, Bryan Adams, Annie Lennox, Daniel Lanois, Hedley, Bruce Cockburn, Fefe Dobson, Ed Robertson, Jann Arden, Serena Ryder, Lights, Nikki Yanofsky and Tom Cochrane, to name a few, graciously provided commentary to photos that inspired them.
Through ArtGivesHope, a charity founded by MacNaughtan in 2006, the sales of the limited edition images and book support World Vision's Hope Program.
To see a sampling of the photographs, visit artgiveshope.ca.
METALLICA is the inspiration for new "Obey Your Master", a new art exhibition which sees pieces from a range of different artists who have interpreted various songs from the band in their own unique way.
Among the artists who are displaying pieces at Exhibit A Gallery in Los Angeles are SLIPKNOT percussionist Shawn "Clown" Crahan, MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE frontman Gerard Way, BLACK VEIL BRIDES singer Andy Biersack and METALLICA's own bassist Robert Trujillo with his wife Chloe.
For the exhibit, the artists have all chosen a song by the heroes of metal and executed their vision in their individual artistic mediums, based on their interpersonal relationship to METALLICA's lyrics and music. The final art pieces represent each chosen song, and were revealed this past Friday, January 20 at Exhibit A Gallery to a private reception, with all of the artists and METALLICA in attendance. The pieces are available for purchase through March 23.
Check out photos from Friday's private reception at ARTISTdirect.
A list of participating artists and their bios can be found at this location.
Rock music has always inspired fans and creative types alike, empowering and influencing them personally, sonically and artistically. Some examples of the influence of METALLICA's music on artists are with Obey Giant's renowned street artist Shepard Fairey and his politically driven propaganda art. One could make the connection between Fairey's art and an album like METALLICA's "...And Justice For All". Starting in the early 1980s, iconic skateboarder Steve Caballero during skate competitions would correlate his music with his aggressive skate style and would insist to organizers to turn up the volume and blast songs off METALLICA's "Kill Em' All" album. Contemporary metal band BLACK VEIL BRIDES' 20-year-old frontman Andy Biersack grew up listening to heavy metal music. One of his most fond memories of early adolescence was sitting in his living room with his childhood friend watching METALLICA VHS tapes. They would thrash along, singing every lyric and banging their heads until their necks felt as if they had been in a car crash. He states, "As I got older and began to write my own songs, the tone and style of James' [Hetfield] lyrics and singing became a huge influence to me. The use of religious and cult metaphors and tenacity with which he sang was something I aspired to, and to this day continue to be inspired by. METALLICA to me is the quintessential heavy metal band. Equal parts darkness, intellect and vitriol."
There have been millions more who have drawn influence from metal music, specifically from METALLICA. Many of these artists are from all walks of life and they are now leaving their own indelible marks on the world and are driven in part by the intellectual rebellious lyrics of METALLICA. Most of these creative fans have never had the opportunity to do any art related to the band... until now!
For more information, visit online at www.exhibitagallery.com.
Among the artists who are displaying pieces at Exhibit A Gallery in Los Angeles are SLIPKNOT percussionist Shawn "Clown" Crahan, MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE frontman Gerard Way, BLACK VEIL BRIDES singer Andy Biersack and METALLICA's own bassist Robert Trujillo with his wife Chloe.
For the exhibit, the artists have all chosen a song by the heroes of metal and executed their vision in their individual artistic mediums, based on their interpersonal relationship to METALLICA's lyrics and music. The final art pieces represent each chosen song, and were revealed this past Friday, January 20 at Exhibit A Gallery to a private reception, with all of the artists and METALLICA in attendance. The pieces are available for purchase through March 23.
Check out photos from Friday's private reception at ARTISTdirect.
A list of participating artists and their bios can be found at this location.
Rock music has always inspired fans and creative types alike, empowering and influencing them personally, sonically and artistically. Some examples of the influence of METALLICA's music on artists are with Obey Giant's renowned street artist Shepard Fairey and his politically driven propaganda art. One could make the connection between Fairey's art and an album like METALLICA's "...And Justice For All". Starting in the early 1980s, iconic skateboarder Steve Caballero during skate competitions would correlate his music with his aggressive skate style and would insist to organizers to turn up the volume and blast songs off METALLICA's "Kill Em' All" album. Contemporary metal band BLACK VEIL BRIDES' 20-year-old frontman Andy Biersack grew up listening to heavy metal music. One of his most fond memories of early adolescence was sitting in his living room with his childhood friend watching METALLICA VHS tapes. They would thrash along, singing every lyric and banging their heads until their necks felt as if they had been in a car crash. He states, "As I got older and began to write my own songs, the tone and style of James' [Hetfield] lyrics and singing became a huge influence to me. The use of religious and cult metaphors and tenacity with which he sang was something I aspired to, and to this day continue to be inspired by. METALLICA to me is the quintessential heavy metal band. Equal parts darkness, intellect and vitriol."
There have been millions more who have drawn influence from metal music, specifically from METALLICA. Many of these artists are from all walks of life and they are now leaving their own indelible marks on the world and are driven in part by the intellectual rebellious lyrics of METALLICA. Most of these creative fans have never had the opportunity to do any art related to the band... until now!
For more information, visit online at www.exhibitagallery.com.
METALLICA is the inspiration for new "Obey Your Master", a new art exhibition which sees pieces from a range of different artists who have interpreted various songs from the band in their own unique way.
Among the artists who are displaying pieces at Exhibit A Gallery in Los Angeles are SLIPKNOT percussionist Shawn "Clown" Crahan, MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE frontman Gerard Way, BLACK VEIL BRIDES singer Andy Biersack and METALLICA's own bassist Robert Trujillo with his wife Chloe.
For the exhibit, the artists have all chosen a song by the heroes of metal and executed their vision in their individual artistic mediums, based on their interpersonal relationship to METALLICA's lyrics and music. The final art pieces represent each chosen song, and were revealed this past Friday, January 20 at Exhibit A Gallery to a private reception, with all of the artists and METALLICA in attendance. The pieces are available for purchase through March 23.
"As a kid in EXODUS, I just wanted to be able to play guitar well and that's all I fucking wanted to do. And to see your musical vision turn into something else, a totally different sort of vision — it's amazing, it's astounding," METALLICA guitarist Kirk Hammett told Alternative Press at Friday's event. "It's incredible to see what people's vision of the music has become. It's so fucking amazing. It's really interesting to see how differently people interpret the music. I mean, I can't believe how farfetched a lot of this stuff really is! I have my concept of what the music means to me in a visual aspect. But to really see how other people interpret it and how other people are visualizing it is mind-blowing, bro. Totally, completely, mind-blowing. I'm so fucking overwhelmed right now!" Hammett said, looking around. "I am so completely overwhelmed. . . It's interesting to see where the music has taken them, where it's led them, and how they've gotten other bits of meaning out of it. I mean, it's profound. It's fucking profound!"
Check out photos from Friday's private reception at ARTISTdirect.
A list of participating artists and their bios can be found at this location.
Rock music has always inspired fans and creative types alike, empowering and influencing them personally, sonically and artistically. Some examples of the influence of METALLICA's music on artists are with Obey Giant's renowned street artist Shepard Fairey and his politically driven propaganda art. One could make the connection between Fairey's art and an album like METALLICA's "...And Justice For All". Starting in the early 1980s, iconic skateboarder Steve Caballero during skate competitions would correlate his music with his aggressive skate style and would insist to organizers to turn up the volume and blast songs off METALLICA's "Kill Em' All" album. Contemporary metal band BLACK VEIL BRIDES' 20-year-old frontman Andy Biersack grew up listening to heavy metal music. One of his most fond memories of early adolescence was sitting in his living room with his childhood friend watching METALLICA VHS tapes. They would thrash along, singing every lyric and banging their heads until their necks felt as if they had been in a car crash. He states, "As I got older and began to write my own songs, the tone and style of James' [Hetfield] lyrics and singing became a huge influence to me. The use of religious and cult metaphors and tenacity with which he sang was something I aspired to, and to this day continue to be inspired by. METALLICA to me is the quintessential heavy metal band. Equal parts darkness, intellect and vitriol."
There have been millions more who have drawn influence from metal music, specifically from METALLICA. Many of these artists are from all walks of life and they are now leaving their own indelible marks on the world and are driven in part by the intellectual rebellious lyrics of METALLICA. Most of these creative fans have never had the opportunity to do any art related to the band... until now!
For more information, visit online at www.exhibitagallery.com.
Among the artists who are displaying pieces at Exhibit A Gallery in Los Angeles are SLIPKNOT percussionist Shawn "Clown" Crahan, MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE frontman Gerard Way, BLACK VEIL BRIDES singer Andy Biersack and METALLICA's own bassist Robert Trujillo with his wife Chloe.
For the exhibit, the artists have all chosen a song by the heroes of metal and executed their vision in their individual artistic mediums, based on their interpersonal relationship to METALLICA's lyrics and music. The final art pieces represent each chosen song, and were revealed this past Friday, January 20 at Exhibit A Gallery to a private reception, with all of the artists and METALLICA in attendance. The pieces are available for purchase through March 23.
"As a kid in EXODUS, I just wanted to be able to play guitar well and that's all I fucking wanted to do. And to see your musical vision turn into something else, a totally different sort of vision — it's amazing, it's astounding," METALLICA guitarist Kirk Hammett told Alternative Press at Friday's event. "It's incredible to see what people's vision of the music has become. It's so fucking amazing. It's really interesting to see how differently people interpret the music. I mean, I can't believe how farfetched a lot of this stuff really is! I have my concept of what the music means to me in a visual aspect. But to really see how other people interpret it and how other people are visualizing it is mind-blowing, bro. Totally, completely, mind-blowing. I'm so fucking overwhelmed right now!" Hammett said, looking around. "I am so completely overwhelmed. . . It's interesting to see where the music has taken them, where it's led them, and how they've gotten other bits of meaning out of it. I mean, it's profound. It's fucking profound!"
Check out photos from Friday's private reception at ARTISTdirect.
A list of participating artists and their bios can be found at this location.
Rock music has always inspired fans and creative types alike, empowering and influencing them personally, sonically and artistically. Some examples of the influence of METALLICA's music on artists are with Obey Giant's renowned street artist Shepard Fairey and his politically driven propaganda art. One could make the connection between Fairey's art and an album like METALLICA's "...And Justice For All". Starting in the early 1980s, iconic skateboarder Steve Caballero during skate competitions would correlate his music with his aggressive skate style and would insist to organizers to turn up the volume and blast songs off METALLICA's "Kill Em' All" album. Contemporary metal band BLACK VEIL BRIDES' 20-year-old frontman Andy Biersack grew up listening to heavy metal music. One of his most fond memories of early adolescence was sitting in his living room with his childhood friend watching METALLICA VHS tapes. They would thrash along, singing every lyric and banging their heads until their necks felt as if they had been in a car crash. He states, "As I got older and began to write my own songs, the tone and style of James' [Hetfield] lyrics and singing became a huge influence to me. The use of religious and cult metaphors and tenacity with which he sang was something I aspired to, and to this day continue to be inspired by. METALLICA to me is the quintessential heavy metal band. Equal parts darkness, intellect and vitriol."
There have been millions more who have drawn influence from metal music, specifically from METALLICA. Many of these artists are from all walks of life and they are now leaving their own indelible marks on the world and are driven in part by the intellectual rebellious lyrics of METALLICA. Most of these creative fans have never had the opportunity to do any art related to the band... until now!
For more information, visit online at www.exhibitagallery.com.
METALLICA is the inspiration for new "Obey Your Master", a new art exhibition which sees pieces from a range of different artists who have interpreted various songs from the band in their own unique way.
Among the artists who are displaying pieces at Exhibit A Gallery in Los Angeles are SLIPKNOT percussionist Shawn "Clown" Crahan, MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE frontman Gerard Way, BLACK VEIL BRIDES singer Andy Biersack and METALLICA's own bassist Robert Trujillo with his wife Chloe.
For the exhibit, the artists have all chosen a song by the heroes of metal and executed their vision in their individual artistic mediums, based on their interpersonal relationship to METALLICA's lyrics and music. The final art pieces represent each chosen song, and were revealed this past Friday, January 20 at Exhibit A Gallery to a private reception, with all of the artists and METALLICA in attendance. The pieces are available for purchase through March 23.
"As a kid in EXODUS, I just wanted to be able to play guitar well and that's all I fucking wanted to do. And to see your musical vision turn into something else, a totally different sort of vision — it's amazing, it's astounding," METALLICA guitarist Kirk Hammett told Alternative Press at Friday's event. "It's incredible to see what people's vision of the music has become. It's so fucking amazing. It's really interesting to see how differently people interpret the music. I mean, I can't believe how farfetched a lot of this stuff really is! I have my concept of what the music means to me in a visual aspect. But to really see how other people interpret it and how other people are visualizing it is mind-blowing, bro. Totally, completely, mind-blowing. I'm so fucking overwhelmed right now!" Hammett said, looking around. "I am so completely overwhelmed. . . It's interesting to see where the music has taken them, where it's led them, and how they've gotten other bits of meaning out of it. I mean, it's profound. It's fucking profound!"
Check out photos from Friday's private reception:
* Metallica.com
* ARTISTdirect
A list of participating artists and their bios can be found at this location.
Rock music has always inspired fans and creative types alike, empowering and influencing them personally, sonically and artistically. Some examples of the influence of METALLICA's music on artists are with Obey Giant's renowned street artist Shepard Fairey and his politically driven propaganda art. One could make the connection between Fairey's art and an album like METALLICA's "...And Justice For All". Starting in the early 1980s, iconic skateboarder Steve Caballero during skate competitions would correlate his music with his aggressive skate style and would insist to organizers to turn up the volume and blast songs off METALLICA's "Kill Em' All" album. Contemporary metal band BLACK VEIL BRIDES' 20-year-old frontman Andy Biersack grew up listening to heavy metal music. One of his most fond memories of early adolescence was sitting in his living room with his childhood friend watching METALLICA VHS tapes. They would thrash along, singing every lyric and banging their heads until their necks felt as if they had been in a car crash. He states, "As I got older and began to write my own songs, the tone and style of James' [Hetfield] lyrics and singing became a huge influence to me. The use of religious and cult metaphors and tenacity with which he sang was something I aspired to, and to this day continue to be inspired by. METALLICA to me is the quintessential heavy metal band. Equal parts darkness, intellect and vitriol."
There have been millions more who have drawn influence from metal music, specifically from METALLICA. Many of these artists are from all walks of life and they are now leaving their own indelible marks on the world and are driven in part by the intellectual rebellious lyrics of METALLICA. Most of these creative fans have never had the opportunity to do any art related to the band... until now!
For more information, visit online at www.exhibitagallery.com.
Among the artists who are displaying pieces at Exhibit A Gallery in Los Angeles are SLIPKNOT percussionist Shawn "Clown" Crahan, MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE frontman Gerard Way, BLACK VEIL BRIDES singer Andy Biersack and METALLICA's own bassist Robert Trujillo with his wife Chloe.
For the exhibit, the artists have all chosen a song by the heroes of metal and executed their vision in their individual artistic mediums, based on their interpersonal relationship to METALLICA's lyrics and music. The final art pieces represent each chosen song, and were revealed this past Friday, January 20 at Exhibit A Gallery to a private reception, with all of the artists and METALLICA in attendance. The pieces are available for purchase through March 23.
"As a kid in EXODUS, I just wanted to be able to play guitar well and that's all I fucking wanted to do. And to see your musical vision turn into something else, a totally different sort of vision — it's amazing, it's astounding," METALLICA guitarist Kirk Hammett told Alternative Press at Friday's event. "It's incredible to see what people's vision of the music has become. It's so fucking amazing. It's really interesting to see how differently people interpret the music. I mean, I can't believe how farfetched a lot of this stuff really is! I have my concept of what the music means to me in a visual aspect. But to really see how other people interpret it and how other people are visualizing it is mind-blowing, bro. Totally, completely, mind-blowing. I'm so fucking overwhelmed right now!" Hammett said, looking around. "I am so completely overwhelmed. . . It's interesting to see where the music has taken them, where it's led them, and how they've gotten other bits of meaning out of it. I mean, it's profound. It's fucking profound!"
Check out photos from Friday's private reception:
* Metallica.com
* ARTISTdirect
A list of participating artists and their bios can be found at this location.
Rock music has always inspired fans and creative types alike, empowering and influencing them personally, sonically and artistically. Some examples of the influence of METALLICA's music on artists are with Obey Giant's renowned street artist Shepard Fairey and his politically driven propaganda art. One could make the connection between Fairey's art and an album like METALLICA's "...And Justice For All". Starting in the early 1980s, iconic skateboarder Steve Caballero during skate competitions would correlate his music with his aggressive skate style and would insist to organizers to turn up the volume and blast songs off METALLICA's "Kill Em' All" album. Contemporary metal band BLACK VEIL BRIDES' 20-year-old frontman Andy Biersack grew up listening to heavy metal music. One of his most fond memories of early adolescence was sitting in his living room with his childhood friend watching METALLICA VHS tapes. They would thrash along, singing every lyric and banging their heads until their necks felt as if they had been in a car crash. He states, "As I got older and began to write my own songs, the tone and style of James' [Hetfield] lyrics and singing became a huge influence to me. The use of religious and cult metaphors and tenacity with which he sang was something I aspired to, and to this day continue to be inspired by. METALLICA to me is the quintessential heavy metal band. Equal parts darkness, intellect and vitriol."
There have been millions more who have drawn influence from metal music, specifically from METALLICA. Many of these artists are from all walks of life and they are now leaving their own indelible marks on the world and are driven in part by the intellectual rebellious lyrics of METALLICA. Most of these creative fans have never had the opportunity to do any art related to the band... until now!
For more information, visit online at www.exhibitagallery.com.
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UPPER WEST SIDE — Blasting Metallica might hurt your ears, but it can help soothe your soul, says an Upper West Side psychiatrist.
In her new book, "Your Playlist Can Change Your Life: 10 Proven Ways Your Favorite Music Can Revolutionize Your Health, Memory, Organization, Alertness and More," Columbia University professor Galina Mindlin and her co-authors Don DuRousseau and Joseph Cardillo reveal how listening to songs with a certain number of beats per minute can trigger specific mental states, such as productivity and relaxation.
"It's [about] how music affects you — how it can improve your memory, how it can relieve anxiety, enhance your mood, how we can use playlists for specific tasks," Mindlin said. "Using music with certain frequencies, you really can create the desired state of mind."
Mindlin says music can help listeners accomplish tasks throughout the day. Listeners can put on one playlist to get revved up for a super-charged day at work, then use other playlists when they need to focus on a specific project, get the most out of their workout, or calm themselves before bed.
Metallica, for example, can chase the blues away, she writes in the book.
Mindlin, an assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at Columbia University and supervising attending physician in the department of Psychiatry at St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center, said using targeted playlists is a cheap, effective and side-effect-free method for becoming "optimally productive."
"Your Playlist Can Change Your Life" lists sample playlists, but Mindlin cautions that choosing specific tracks is a highly personal exercise. There's no magic list of songs that work for everyone, Mindlin said. Instead listeners should rely on their own tastes in music and pay close attention to how songs make them feel.
"What's right for you might not be right for someone else," Mindlin said. "Some people love the classical genre, but some people get excited by pop. The idea is to activate as many brain areas as you can."
One playlist in the book lists songs with 100 to 130 beats per minute for achieving high alertness when you need to focus on an important work project. Sample tunes in that category include "Pride (In the Name of Love) by U2, "Lady Madonna" by the Beatles, "Goodbye Earl" by the Dixie Chicks, "Sweet Dreams" by Marilyn Manson and "Don't Phunk with My Heart" by the Black Eyed Peas.
When Mindlin wants to calm down, she listens to "Imagine" by John Lennon. When she wants to build up more energy, she uses the songs "Uprising" and "Guiding Light" by the British band Muse. For exercise, she listens to David Guetta's "Without You" and LMFAO's "Sexy and I Know It."
DNAinfo quizzed some Manhattanites about their personal music playlists.
Mario Paredes, a 21-year-old Washington Heights resident, was preparing himself for work with Kryptonite playing in his ears
"It makes me feel strong," he said. "It makes me work faster and better."
Like Mindlin suggests, Paredes uses music to remedy his moods, such as Rhianna's "We Found Love" to calm him if he feels angry.
"I usually go the whole way and pump up the volume," he said. "I just want to focus on that song."
Luis Oliverios, a 30-year-old Midtown West resident, linked his relaxation music by French composer Claude Debussy to the closing scene of film "Ocean's Eleven."
"They are just relaxing and watching the fountain in Vegas," he said. In the scene, George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon contemplate the fountain outside the Bellagio casino after successfully completing a heist while Debussy's "Clair de Lune" is played.
Mindlin founded the Brain Music Treatment Center on West 58th Street, where patients have their own brain waves recorded and transformed into sounds that they then listen to as a way to soothe or energize themselves.
Not everyone can afford the Brain Music Treatment Center's pricey personalized treatment, but music can accomplish roughly the same goals, Mindlin explained. She wrote "Your Playlist Can Change Your Life" because she wanted to bring the center's method to a wider audience.
Mindlin said one patient who was a B student improved her grades to all A's after switching the type of music she listened to when she studied. Music can also be very effective for patients with ADHD whose brains enter a slow, dreamlike state when they're overwhelmed by several tasks, Mindlin said. By listening to fast-frequency music, they can bring their brain back to a productive state, Mindlin said.
"Everybody can do it and everybody should do it," Mindlin added. "It's a remedy without any side effects."
U.K. online retailer Play.com is taking pre-orders for the exclusive slipcase edition of VAN HALEN's new album, "A Different Kind Of Truth", which will be released on February 7 via Interscope.
A 90-second excerpt of a new VAN HALEN song called "Blood And Fire" was posted online, and it turns out that the track is yet another reworking of an older, more obscure track. A recording has been found on YouTube of an instrumental called "Ripley" that dates back to 1984 and was heard on the soundtrack of a movie called "The Wild Life" which starred the late Chris Penn and was written by Cameron Crowe, who went on to direct "Jerry Maguire" and other films.
Guitarist Eddie Van Halen wrote a score for the movie, but only one song called "Donut City" was issued on the soundtrack. The rest of Eddie's music can be heard throughout the film.
"Blood And Fire" is taken from "A Different Kind Of Truth", which is VAN HALEN's first album in 13 years and first with original singer David Lee Roth since 1984. It's the fourth track from the disc that's confirmed to have its roots in older material.
First single "Tattoo" is based on an unreleased 1977 track called "Down In Flames", while "She's The Woman" was first recorded on a 1976 demo. Another tune called "Bullethead" also dates back to the group's early days.
VAN HALEN kicks off a North American tour on February 18 in Louisville, Kentucky.
A 90-second excerpt of a new VAN HALEN song called "Blood And Fire" was posted online, and it turns out that the track is yet another reworking of an older, more obscure track. A recording has been found on YouTube of an instrumental called "Ripley" that dates back to 1984 and was heard on the soundtrack of a movie called "The Wild Life" which starred the late Chris Penn and was written by Cameron Crowe, who went on to direct "Jerry Maguire" and other films.
Guitarist Eddie Van Halen wrote a score for the movie, but only one song called "Donut City" was issued on the soundtrack. The rest of Eddie's music can be heard throughout the film.
"Blood And Fire" is taken from "A Different Kind Of Truth", which is VAN HALEN's first album in 13 years and first with original singer David Lee Roth since 1984. It's the fourth track from the disc that's confirmed to have its roots in older material.
First single "Tattoo" is based on an unreleased 1977 track called "Down In Flames", while "She's The Woman" was first recorded on a 1976 demo. Another tune called "Bullethead" also dates back to the group's early days.
VAN HALEN kicks off a North American tour on February 18 in Louisville, Kentucky.
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Dreams have been a topic of speculation and interest throughout history, and Kia Motors America (KMA) is tapping into the idea of dreams revealing true desires in a new 60-second commercial set to air during the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLVI. In the spot, titled "Drive the Dream", the new 2012 Optima Limited races through a Gen X couple's wildest thoughts as they sleep, including: Victoria's Secret Angel Adriana Lima waving the checkered flag at a speedway; an in-your-face MÖTLEY CRÜE concert; mixed martial arts legend Chuck Liddell battling in the ring; a heroine and hunk on horseback in a romance novel setting; champion bull rider Judd Leffew taming a bucking rhinoceros; and a fairy tale ending.
Kia returns to the big game for the third straight year with a fully integrated marketing campaign incorporating TV, cinema, digital, print, social media and in-dealership components. In a Super Bowl advertising first, the complete "Drive the Dream" ad will premiere on February 2 on more than 18,000 movie screens nationwide in National CineMedia's FirstLook pre-show program before airing in the game. Kia also will run 15-second teaser ads featuring Adriana Lima on TV and in cinema beginning on January 27, while also leveraging the Twitter and Facebook channels of the spot's celebrity cast. A special expanded version of the ad will be available at YouTube.com/Kia beginning on February 2.
"With more than 100 million people watching the Super Bowl broadcast and millions more viewing content online around the world, Kia will once again deliver a memorable, one-of-a-kind campaign that entertains people before, during and after the game and leaves them wanting to see the Optima Limited fantasy again and again," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "We selected an eclectic group of celebrities and personalities for 'Drive The Dream' to enable us to tap into a diverse body of fan bases and leverage each talent's expansive social media footprint."
Created by David&Goliath, "Drive The Dream" opens with the familiar notes of THE CHORDETTES' "Mr. Sandman" as a real-life Mr. Sandman enters the bedroom of an unsuspecting young couple who are asleep. After being sprinkled with "Sweet Dreams" dust, the woman smiles and envisions herself on a horse with a romance novel-like hunk in a beautiful green meadow. Meanwhile, Mr. Sandman accidentally stumbles and spills his entire night's dust supply on the man, launching an extreme dream sequence that begins with the roaring guitars of MÖTLEY CRÜE's "Kickstart My Heart" and Adriana Lima waving a checkered flag as he blasts around a race track at night in a Snow White Pearl Optima Limited with thousands of bikini-clad fans cheering him on from the stands.
As he circles the track with Lima looking on adoringly, the dreaming driver receives nods of approval from the band as bursts of flames and fireworks surround their stage as well as Chuck Liddell, champion bull rider Judd Leffew, and a pair of lumberjacks sawing a massive submarine sandwich.
"MÖTLEY CRÜE had a blast doing the Kia commercial," said bassist Nikki Sixx. "A hot model, a fast car, a pro fighter, pyrotechnics and rock n' roll...What's not to love?"
Much to the disbelief of Lima and drummer Tommy Lee, the high-octane dream turns into a fairy tale when the husband makes a conscious decision to drive the Optima Limited off the race track and into his wife's fantasy to win her back from Prince Charming.
"After working with Kia for the Super Bowl last year I was drawn to work with the fast-growing brand again by the idea of exploring people's ultimate fantasies in a fun and lighthearted way, and I am certain we have created a spot people will be talking about after the game," said director Noam Murro.
As part of the "Drive The Dream" campaign, beginning on Thursday, February 2 consumers can download a $25 pre-paid test drive voucher1 at Kia.com that is redeemable after eligible consumers visit a Kia dealership and complete a test drive of any Optima model.
New for 20122, the Optima Limited adds a new level refinement to the premium technology, convenience and performance features found on Kia's award-winning turbocharged Optima SX. In addition to head-turning design, class-leading horsepower and fuel efficiency and a class-exclusive panoramic sunroof, the Optima Limited offers elegant touches that modern drivers would expect to find in the car of their dreams, such as: unique design 18-inch wheels, high-grade Nappa leather seating, LED accent lights, chrome exterior accents and sporty red brake calipers.
Kia returns to the big game for the third straight year with a fully integrated marketing campaign incorporating TV, cinema, digital, print, social media and in-dealership components. In a Super Bowl advertising first, the complete "Drive the Dream" ad will premiere on February 2 on more than 18,000 movie screens nationwide in National CineMedia's FirstLook pre-show program before airing in the game. Kia also will run 15-second teaser ads featuring Adriana Lima on TV and in cinema beginning on January 27, while also leveraging the Twitter and Facebook channels of the spot's celebrity cast. A special expanded version of the ad will be available at YouTube.com/Kia beginning on February 2.
"With more than 100 million people watching the Super Bowl broadcast and millions more viewing content online around the world, Kia will once again deliver a memorable, one-of-a-kind campaign that entertains people before, during and after the game and leaves them wanting to see the Optima Limited fantasy again and again," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "We selected an eclectic group of celebrities and personalities for 'Drive The Dream' to enable us to tap into a diverse body of fan bases and leverage each talent's expansive social media footprint."
Created by David&Goliath, "Drive The Dream" opens with the familiar notes of THE CHORDETTES' "Mr. Sandman" as a real-life Mr. Sandman enters the bedroom of an unsuspecting young couple who are asleep. After being sprinkled with "Sweet Dreams" dust, the woman smiles and envisions herself on a horse with a romance novel-like hunk in a beautiful green meadow. Meanwhile, Mr. Sandman accidentally stumbles and spills his entire night's dust supply on the man, launching an extreme dream sequence that begins with the roaring guitars of MÖTLEY CRÜE's "Kickstart My Heart" and Adriana Lima waving a checkered flag as he blasts around a race track at night in a Snow White Pearl Optima Limited with thousands of bikini-clad fans cheering him on from the stands.
As he circles the track with Lima looking on adoringly, the dreaming driver receives nods of approval from the band as bursts of flames and fireworks surround their stage as well as Chuck Liddell, champion bull rider Judd Leffew, and a pair of lumberjacks sawing a massive submarine sandwich.
"MÖTLEY CRÜE had a blast doing the Kia commercial," said bassist Nikki Sixx. "A hot model, a fast car, a pro fighter, pyrotechnics and rock n' roll...What's not to love?"
Much to the disbelief of Lima and drummer Tommy Lee, the high-octane dream turns into a fairy tale when the husband makes a conscious decision to drive the Optima Limited off the race track and into his wife's fantasy to win her back from Prince Charming.
"After working with Kia for the Super Bowl last year I was drawn to work with the fast-growing brand again by the idea of exploring people's ultimate fantasies in a fun and lighthearted way, and I am certain we have created a spot people will be talking about after the game," said director Noam Murro.
As part of the "Drive The Dream" campaign, beginning on Thursday, February 2 consumers can download a $25 pre-paid test drive voucher1 at Kia.com that is redeemable after eligible consumers visit a Kia dealership and complete a test drive of any Optima model.
New for 20122, the Optima Limited adds a new level refinement to the premium technology, convenience and performance features found on Kia's award-winning turbocharged Optima SX. In addition to head-turning design, class-leading horsepower and fuel efficiency and a class-exclusive panoramic sunroof, the Optima Limited offers elegant touches that modern drivers would expect to find in the car of their dreams, such as: unique design 18-inch wheels, high-grade Nappa leather seating, LED accent lights, chrome exterior accents and sporty red brake calipers.
After more than three decades of debauchery, Mötley Crüe continues to make history. This time, they're doing it in Vegas as the first ever hard-rock residency at The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel. It's also the first residency of its kind in Vegas.
The group closed the original Joint with two performances on Feb. 6 – 7 in 2009. Almost exactly three years later, Nikki Sixx (bass guitarist), Mick Mars (lead guitarist), Vince Neil (frontman) and Tommy Lee (drummer) are kicking off their three-week run at the new Joint on Feb. 3.
Their show will offer fans an interactive experience with over-the-top production elements and in-your-face rock 'n' roll. It's being promoted as Mötley Crüe's most notorious show ever. In a city that's always ready to party, it's a match made in heaven.
VEGAS.com got a change to talk to notorious front man Vince Neil about the band's upcoming shows and what it's like to be the first rock 'n' roll group to have a residency in Sin City.
What is it like to be the first-ever hard rock residency at the Hard Rock Hotel?
"For me being a Vegas resident, it's a dream come true. For one thing, it's really cool to be able to put on a show that we've always dreamed about. "
"For me being a Vegas resident, it's a dream come true. For one thing, it's really cool to be able to put on a show that we've always dreamed about. "
What made the band decide to do this residency now and in Vegas?
"Well the timing was right. We were on tour all last year, and this thing came up. So everyone took the holidays off. It was perfect timing for the band to take February, set it aside, come to Vegas and bring a show. We've been wanting to do something like this for a long time, and all the stars were aligned right that day."
"Well the timing was right. We were on tour all last year, and this thing came up. So everyone took the holidays off. It was perfect timing for the band to take February, set it aside, come to Vegas and bring a show. We've been wanting to do something like this for a long time, and all the stars were aligned right that day."
I've heard that the show is going to be an interactive experience. Can you give me some more details on what fans can expect to see?
"It's just not going to be your regular show where the stage is set up on one end of the building, and the rest of it's seats. We're going to pretty much encompass the whole venue. We could be playing in the back of the place, above you, on the side of you. We're using the latest technology in visuals. We really made the effort to do something that no one's ever really seen before. I don't want to give away everything, but the technology that we're using is pretty advanced. I think a lot of people are going to be blown away with the show."
"It's just not going to be your regular show where the stage is set up on one end of the building, and the rest of it's seats. We're going to pretty much encompass the whole venue. We could be playing in the back of the place, above you, on the side of you. We're using the latest technology in visuals. We really made the effort to do something that no one's ever really seen before. I don't want to give away everything, but the technology that we're using is pretty advanced. I think a lot of people are going to be blown away with the show."
After more than three decades you guys don't show any signs of slowing down. What has kept the band together and still going strong all these years?
"There's really only four bands from the '80s that are still around that are still relevant today. That's us, Metallica, Bon Jovi and U2. With us we've maintained a relevancy by attracting the next generation. So when you go to our concerts, it's not just the 40 and 50-year-olds that grew up with you, it's their kids. You have 15 and 16-year-olds in "Shout at the Devil" shirts running around who think Mötley Crüe are really cool. Dads put their 5-year-olds on their shoulders for their first concerts. You have an attorney standing next to a biker. It's all different realms of society and all ages. I think that's what you really have to do, be multigenerational to still be relevant."
"There's really only four bands from the '80s that are still around that are still relevant today. That's us, Metallica, Bon Jovi and U2. With us we've maintained a relevancy by attracting the next generation. So when you go to our concerts, it's not just the 40 and 50-year-olds that grew up with you, it's their kids. You have 15 and 16-year-olds in "Shout at the Devil" shirts running around who think Mötley Crüe are really cool. Dads put their 5-year-olds on their shoulders for their first concerts. You have an attorney standing next to a biker. It's all different realms of society and all ages. I think that's what you really have to do, be multigenerational to still be relevant."
Mötley Crüe
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What about being able to play with the same group of people for so long and being able to continue to share the same vision for the band after all these years? What's behind that success?
"We tour the world, and we have fun. When I'm on stage, it still feels like we're playing the Whisky A Go Go 30 years ago. It's still fun for everybody. What we always say is when it stops being fun, that's when we get out."
"We tour the world, and we have fun. When I'm on stage, it still feels like we're playing the Whisky A Go Go 30 years ago. It's still fun for everybody. What we always say is when it stops being fun, that's when we get out."
Has performing those songs and what you guys sing about changed at all for you over the years?
"The only thing that changes is just the show. If you put out new records sometimes the songs change, but you still play your hits that everyone wants to hear. The fun thing is changing up the show and giving everybody something different every time they come see us."
"The only thing that changes is just the show. If you put out new records sometimes the songs change, but you still play your hits that everyone wants to hear. The fun thing is changing up the show and giving everybody something different every time they come see us."
Do you have a favorite song that you like to perform live?
"I have a couple. For a slow song, obviously 'Home Sweet Home.' Everybody has their matches and their lighters and their phones up, and it's really a cool song to sing. For a fast song like, 'Girls, Girls, Girls,' everybody loves that song, and everybody sings along. So with those songs you see faces light up and everybody's singing."
"I have a couple. For a slow song, obviously 'Home Sweet Home.' Everybody has their matches and their lighters and their phones up, and it's really a cool song to sing. For a fast song like, 'Girls, Girls, Girls,' everybody loves that song, and everybody sings along. So with those songs you see faces light up and everybody's singing."
Does the band have to do anything different to prepare for the upcoming Vegas shows?
"Well this show it's so complex, we have to rehearse. We actually start rehearsing on Saturday (Jan. 28). We'll just get it together, fine tune it and be ready to hit the stage."
"Well this show it's so complex, we have to rehearse. We actually start rehearsing on Saturday (Jan. 28). We'll just get it together, fine tune it and be ready to hit the stage."
Are you guys doing anything special at the hotel in combination with your residency?
"We're really decking out the Hard Rock… We're putting in a lot of memorabilia in there besides what they already have. We're taking stuff out of our houses, and [the Hard Rock] is going to put it in display cases on the way into The Joint. So it's kinda cool."
Is there anything else that you'd like to add about your residency in Vegas?
"It's just going to be one of the biggest shows that Mötley's ever done and one of the most extravagant. If you've seen Mötley before, it's a pretty tall bill. So, it's going to be a lot of fun."
"It's just going to be one of the biggest shows that Mötley's ever done and one of the most extravagant. If you've seen Mötley before, it's a pretty tall bill. So, it's going to be a lot of fun."
So what's next for the band after your shows in February?
"I don't know. There's a lot of talk of different things, but I really focus on what's in hand right now. I'm just focusing on the shows here in Vegas, and after that we'll figure out what's next for the band."
"I don't know. There's a lot of talk of different things, but I really focus on what's in hand right now. I'm just focusing on the shows here in Vegas, and after that we'll figure out what's next for the band."
Southern California's heavy fuzz rock legends FU MANCHU are thrilled to celebrate the 15th anniversary of their 1997 classic "The Action Is Go". To follow up on the overwhelming response they received from their "In Search Of…15 Years" tour, the hardworking group will be undertaking a headlining tour with a set comprised of this entire fourteen-track album from start to finish. Many of these songs will be performed live for the first time ever.
To coincide with the tour, the band will be reissuing the original album on 180-gram vinyl with double gatefold packaging on the band's own At The Dojo Records worldwide. The band will also be selling the vinyl reissue as well as the original CD at these shows. On September 14, FU MANCHU will launch their European trek in the U.K. A full listing of the 24-city, 15-country, four-week FU MANCHU "The Action Is Go 15" tour can be seen below.
Recorded at Grandmaster Studios in Hollywood, California and Sound City in Van Nuys, California and produced by Jay Yuenger of WHITE ZOMBIE, mixed by Joe Barresi (TOOL, QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, MELVINS) and mastered by Dave Collins (SOUNDGARDEN, BLACK SABBATH, MONSTER MAGNET), "The Action Is Go" was the band's fourth full length album and the first to feature current lead guitarist Bob Balch. This collection is considered a classic of the band's catalog. Highlights include the lead single, "Evil Eye", "Hogwash" and concert classic "Saturn III".
Originally formed in 1985 as a BLACK FLAG-influenced hardcore punk band called VIRULENCE, FU MANCHU has since become one of hard rock's most celebrated names. The band released its first single "Kept Between Trees" in 1990 and in the years following, helped give rise to a celebrated style of heavy music tagged "stoner rock" alongside peers such as KYUSS, MONSTER MAGNET and SLEEP. Since its inception, the quartet has built itself a fanatical army of loyal enthusiasts all drawn to the group's ridiculously catchy, unpretentious music, guitar-driven sound and carefree lyrics centered on "old muscle cars, choppers, vans, skateboarding and science fiction."
The track listing for "The Action Is Go" is as follows:
01. Evil Eye
02. Urethane
03. The Action Is Go
04. Burning Road
05. Guardrail
06. Anodizer
07. Side Hoax
08. Unknown World
09. Laserbl'ast!
10. Hogwash
11. Grendel, Snowman
12. Strolling Astronomer
13. Saturn III
14. Nothing Done
"We're stoked that the fans are into us doing the complete album thing again. We look forward to bringing these songs back live to the fans after 15 years," states FU MANCHU front man/guitarist Scott Hill.
FU MANCHU intends to bring this tour to the U.S. and potentially other countries throughout 2012 and 2013. Details are expected to be announced in the immediate future. Additionally, the band is currently writing new material and plans to release an all new album in 2013.
In addition to Hill, FU MANCHU features guitarist Bob Balch, bassist Brad Davis and drummer Scott Reeder.
FU MANCHU European "The Action Is Go 15" tour dates:
Sep. 14 - Manchester, UK @ Ruby Lounge
Sep. 15 - London, UK @ Islington Academy
Sep. 16 - Leeds, UK @ Brudenell
Sep. 17 - Birmingham, UK @ Academy 2
Sep. 19 - Paris, France @ Maroquinerie
Sep. 20 - Karlsruhe, Germany @ Substage
Sep. 21 - Schaffhausen, Switzerland @ Kammgarn
Sep. 22 - Romagnano Sesia, Italy @ RNR Arena
Sep. 24 - Zurich, Switzerland @ Plaza Club
Sep. 25 - Munich, Germany @ Hansa 39
Sep. 26 - Vienna, Austria @ Szene
Sep. 27 - Berlin, Germany @ Lido
Sep. 28 - Warsaw, Poland @ Hydrozagadka
Sep. 30 - Tallin, Estonia @ Rock Café
Oct. 01 - Helsinki, Finland @ Nosturi
Oct. 03 - Stockholm, Sweden @ Strand
Oct. 04 - Oslo, Norway @ Rockefeller
Oct. 05 - Gothenburg, Sweden @ Sticky Fingers
Oct. 06 - Copenhagen, Denmark @ The Rock
Oct. 08 - Hamburg, Germany @ Knust
Oct. 09 - Cologne, Germany @ Luxor
Oct. 10 - Luxembourg City, Luxembourg @ Den Atelier
Oct. 11 - Eindhoven, Netherlands @ Effenaar KZ
Oct. 12 - Antwerp, Belgium @ Trix
To coincide with the tour, the band will be reissuing the original album on 180-gram vinyl with double gatefold packaging on the band's own At The Dojo Records worldwide. The band will also be selling the vinyl reissue as well as the original CD at these shows. On September 14, FU MANCHU will launch their European trek in the U.K. A full listing of the 24-city, 15-country, four-week FU MANCHU "The Action Is Go 15" tour can be seen below.
Recorded at Grandmaster Studios in Hollywood, California and Sound City in Van Nuys, California and produced by Jay Yuenger of WHITE ZOMBIE, mixed by Joe Barresi (TOOL, QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, MELVINS) and mastered by Dave Collins (SOUNDGARDEN, BLACK SABBATH, MONSTER MAGNET), "The Action Is Go" was the band's fourth full length album and the first to feature current lead guitarist Bob Balch. This collection is considered a classic of the band's catalog. Highlights include the lead single, "Evil Eye", "Hogwash" and concert classic "Saturn III".
Originally formed in 1985 as a BLACK FLAG-influenced hardcore punk band called VIRULENCE, FU MANCHU has since become one of hard rock's most celebrated names. The band released its first single "Kept Between Trees" in 1990 and in the years following, helped give rise to a celebrated style of heavy music tagged "stoner rock" alongside peers such as KYUSS, MONSTER MAGNET and SLEEP. Since its inception, the quartet has built itself a fanatical army of loyal enthusiasts all drawn to the group's ridiculously catchy, unpretentious music, guitar-driven sound and carefree lyrics centered on "old muscle cars, choppers, vans, skateboarding and science fiction."
The track listing for "The Action Is Go" is as follows:
01. Evil Eye
02. Urethane
03. The Action Is Go
04. Burning Road
05. Guardrail
06. Anodizer
07. Side Hoax
08. Unknown World
09. Laserbl'ast!
10. Hogwash
11. Grendel, Snowman
12. Strolling Astronomer
13. Saturn III
14. Nothing Done
"We're stoked that the fans are into us doing the complete album thing again. We look forward to bringing these songs back live to the fans after 15 years," states FU MANCHU front man/guitarist Scott Hill.
FU MANCHU intends to bring this tour to the U.S. and potentially other countries throughout 2012 and 2013. Details are expected to be announced in the immediate future. Additionally, the band is currently writing new material and plans to release an all new album in 2013.
In addition to Hill, FU MANCHU features guitarist Bob Balch, bassist Brad Davis and drummer Scott Reeder.
FU MANCHU European "The Action Is Go 15" tour dates:
Sep. 14 - Manchester, UK @ Ruby Lounge
Sep. 15 - London, UK @ Islington Academy
Sep. 16 - Leeds, UK @ Brudenell
Sep. 17 - Birmingham, UK @ Academy 2
Sep. 19 - Paris, France @ Maroquinerie
Sep. 20 - Karlsruhe, Germany @ Substage
Sep. 21 - Schaffhausen, Switzerland @ Kammgarn
Sep. 22 - Romagnano Sesia, Italy @ RNR Arena
Sep. 24 - Zurich, Switzerland @ Plaza Club
Sep. 25 - Munich, Germany @ Hansa 39
Sep. 26 - Vienna, Austria @ Szene
Sep. 27 - Berlin, Germany @ Lido
Sep. 28 - Warsaw, Poland @ Hydrozagadka
Sep. 30 - Tallin, Estonia @ Rock Café
Oct. 01 - Helsinki, Finland @ Nosturi
Oct. 03 - Stockholm, Sweden @ Strand
Oct. 04 - Oslo, Norway @ Rockefeller
Oct. 05 - Gothenburg, Sweden @ Sticky Fingers
Oct. 06 - Copenhagen, Denmark @ The Rock
Oct. 08 - Hamburg, Germany @ Knust
Oct. 09 - Cologne, Germany @ Luxor
Oct. 10 - Luxembourg City, Luxembourg @ Den Atelier
Oct. 11 - Eindhoven, Netherlands @ Effenaar KZ
Oct. 12 - Antwerp, Belgium @ Trix
Machine Head took the stage on Sunday night to an extremely packed House of Blues in support of "The Eighth Plague" tour. This is Machine Head's first headlining tour in over 4 years, and their latest appearance since playing Mayhem Fest over the summer. It's only been a few weeks into the new year and I'm almost positive that this will be in my top shows of 2012. Opening up for Machine Head was Darkest Hour and Suicide Silence. Both bands gave great performances and really riled up the crowd for the chaos that exploded when Machine Head got on stage. I got a chance to sit with Dave McClain shortly before he took the stage and talked to him about the success of their latest record "Unto the Locust" and how the current tour is going.
The Rock Stage:"The Blackening" was such a crucial album in Machine Head's career and many people didn't think that you guys would be able to top yourselves because of how successful it was but I believe "Unto the Locust" has become just as successful. Do you think that you exceeded people's expectations?
Dave McClain: First off thank you! Yeah I mean, you never want to go into your next record and be like "Oh, this one is going to totally suck compared to our last one". It was a crazy record for us, "The Blackening" in the respect that so many crazy things happen to us. You never really know how people are going to react to it and we wrote this record that people just like really took to. Even with like gaining a whole new generation of fans and all this stuff that happened with the band was so amazing. So yeah, going back into the writing cycle, it had been 3 years since we started touring so we were really ready to just start writing and recording. I think we were just lucky that everything fell into place. We had all these great riffs going on and these songs that were coming up were really good. So yeah, we worked really hard on doing it. We didn't want to create the same record again.
The Rock Stage: How was the writing and recording process for "Unto the Locust" different from the other records?
Dave McClain: We saw lot of things on that tour happen for us. Even with like touring with Metallica and stuff, who nobody will ever reach that level again. So for us, out of all of the great things that happened on "The Blackening" tour we were still really hungry for all of that again and we also felt that we had a lot to prove to people and to ourselves.
The Rock Stage: I've read in articles lately that there were problems within the band during "The Blackening" tour cycle.
Dave McClain: Yeah but I mean what band doesn't? That whole cycle for us was about 5 years and that's almost as long as some bands careers.
The Rock Stage: How long did "Unto the Locust" take to write and record?
Dave McClain: From the time we started up until we went into the studio was about a year. Even when we did get into the studio we are always changing things. Robb is always coming up with different vocal melodies and stuff like that.
The Rock Stage: In the new record, you guys have so many different layering involved. Does that make it hard to perform these songs live?
Dave McClain: It's possible but the basic songs are really raw and I think being in the studio more for us now is about not getting into like Pink Floyd stuff or anything. Just kind of treating the 2 things differently and also keeping it to when we do get to a live situation don't we have people looking around and being like "What the fuck was that? I don't recognize any of that". And we don't use any tracks, like yeah we'll use an intro, but we would never play over tracks.
The Rock Stage: What's your favorite song to play live?
Dave McClain: Well we're almost playing the whole record and I absolutely love opening up with "I am Hell". It's insane; it's just so awesome to start out the show like that.
The Rock Stage: After this US run you guys have some other shows coming up. Is there anything you're most excited about? Like Download 2012 should be a sick show for you guys!
Dave McClain: I don't even know if we're doing Download anymore! We don't know what's going on. We're going to Europe and doing a bunch of different festivals and all that the whole summer but as of right now the UK is the only thing that's up in the air. There are 2 different festivals and that's when like the whole "music business" gets into play because there are consequences for doing this one and there are consequences for doing that one so we're just trying to work around all of that.
The Rock Stage: How is being on the road with Suicide Silence and Darkest Hour?
Dave McClain: It's awesome! The Darkest Hour dudes we took them out with us in Europe the last tour. I met a couple of the guys before and we hit it off great. Me and the 2 guitar players, the two Mike's, have a cover band. They come up here and we jam to a bunch of different rock songs, so they're cool. We get along great with all the guys. Suicide Silence we've known those dudes for a long time so it's good to bring them out.
The Rock Stage: What's been the best show so far? Obviously after tonight's show you'll be saying Chicago, because we're a pretty intense crowd out here!
Dave McClain: Haha we'll see, Chicago is great, tho! But so far I think the first show in Denver was a really great show, it was just amazing.
Chicago really came together to show Machine Head what we're all about. The show was pure insanity, the energy from the band as well as the crowd could be felt throughout the entire building. They played a 2 hour set that included almost the entire "Unto the Locust" record as well as their classics from previous albums.
SET LIST:
I am Hell (Sonata in C#)
Be Still and Know
Imperium
Beautiful Mourning
The Blood, the Sweat, the Tears
Locust
This is the End
Aesthetics of Hate
Old
Darkness Within
Declaration
Bulldozer
Ten Ton Hammer
Who We Are
Encore:
Halo
Davidian
Check out the rest of The Eighth Plague Tour dates!
24 – Columbus, OH – Newport Music Hall
26 – Portland, ME – State Theatre
27 – Montreal, QC – Metropolis
28 – Toronto, ON – The Sound Academy
29 – Buffalo, NY – Town Ballroom
31 – Pittsburgh, PA – Stage AE
26 – Portland, ME – State Theatre
27 – Montreal, QC – Metropolis
28 – Toronto, ON – The Sound Academy
29 – Buffalo, NY – Town Ballroom
31 – Pittsburgh, PA – Stage AE
February
1 – Baltimore, MD – Ram's Head Live
2 – Philadelphia, PA – Trocadero
3 – New York, NY – Best Buy Theatre
4 – Worcester, MA – The Palladium
6 – Norfolk, VA – NorVA Theatre
7 – Charlotte, NC – The Fillmore
8 – Atlanta, GA – Masquerade
10 – New Orleans, LA – House of Blues
11 – Houston, TX – House of Blues
12 – San Antonio, TX – Backstage Live
13 – Dallas, TX – House of Blues
15 – Farmington, NM – Top Deck
16 – Tuscon, AZ – Rialto Theatre
17 – Hollywood, CA – Avalon
18 – San Francisco, CA – The Warfield
1 – Baltimore, MD – Ram's Head Live
2 – Philadelphia, PA – Trocadero
3 – New York, NY – Best Buy Theatre
4 – Worcester, MA – The Palladium
6 – Norfolk, VA – NorVA Theatre
7 – Charlotte, NC – The Fillmore
8 – Atlanta, GA – Masquerade
10 – New Orleans, LA – House of Blues
11 – Houston, TX – House of Blues
12 – San Antonio, TX – Backstage Live
13 – Dallas, TX – House of Blues
15 – Farmington, NM – Top Deck
16 – Tuscon, AZ – Rialto Theatre
17 – Hollywood, CA – Avalon
18 – San Francisco, CA – The Warfield
Mick Stingley of Rocksalt.mx recently conducted an interview with vocalist Angela Gossow of Swedish/German extreme metallers ARCH ENEMY. A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.
Rocksalt.mx: This is your sixth full-length album with ARCH ENEMY. Are you still as energized and excited as when you began?
Angela: Yeah, this is sixth. I feel a lot better: perhaps a mixture of anxiety, excitement and having more knowledge about the whole thing. It's just like dropping into cold water: it's very exciting but at the same time it's very nerve-wracking and now we've all learned to swim. And in a very good way, you know? It's not just staying on the surface, staying alive, but to actually, you know, be able to compete with the best right now. And we're just kinda like a big fish in a pond – a bigger fish — not so small anymore. So, it actually feels — I don't wanna… it feels like if somebody asked you if you wanted to be 15 or 16 or 18 again. I neither want to be 18 again nor do I want to go back ten years. You know? I'm really happy where we are right now.
Rocksalt.mx: Did you foresee this kind of longevity with the band when you started out?
Angela: Well… I don't dwell on the past at all. I'm very much here in the present. Always. I do plan the future, as, you know, when I do something I want to make it last — it's just like with a relationship or anything I do. So we were always planning two, three years ahead, you know, but obviously you can't plan ten years ahead, so: no. I didn't think that I'd be doing this when I'm approaching my 40s! (laughs) But, hey — I am and it just feels really, really good. And my health is totally there — I'm actually fitter now than I was ten years ago, so that's awfully interesting. I think women peak in their 30s and 40s. I think that comes very handy, you know? Because when they have kids and they have to multi-task and take a lot of shit and be very, very flexible. And it's a lot. I think I'm actually peaking. I would say I'm stronger now than I was then. So, yeah — I didn't put the years out ahead but I am glad we are still here and still relevant and that we can still do it. Yeah.
Rocksalt.mx: You said you were sitting around listening to music late at night when you're stoned. And I want to make sure there's no misunderstanding by what you mean by "stoned."
Angela: Oh, I mean, obviously, weed — the stuff that grows outside in my garden and (laughs) it's obviously not legal, unfortunately, but — that's one of our political agendas in [ARCH ENEMY's new album] "Khaos Legions" is to legalize it. You know? (laughs)
Rocksalt.mx: Really? How come you're not covering "Legalize It" by Peter Tosh?
Angela: Yeaahhh… that's too obvious. But, uh…
Rocksalt.mx: Too obvious?
Angela: Well, yeah — maybe we should do it one day. Yeah, I think it's an awesome recreational… herb. I wouldn't call it drug, that's so negative. It's like, yeah, it's something you can buy at a drugstore, hopefully one day. So let's call it a drug.
Rocksalt.mx: What is the — you're in Sweden, right?
Angela: Yeah – oh, yes! The young generation, they've had a couple of votes now. They're trying to get it legalized. Which is good. It doesn't do any damage to people, except when you're prone to paranoia and schizophrenia then you've got to, you actually have to see a doctor if you've got problems like that. But for most people it's very harmless, compared to hard liquor. And Sweden is very damaged by hard liquor. They have a very high alcoholic rate here, you know. Especially among teenagers, and drinking hard stuff… I mean, honestly, I'd rather see a 16-year-old smoke a spliff than having a bottle of vodka in their hands, you know. So I just hope; but they're very tough on it. You can go to jail for it if you're caught with a spliff. Yeah. It's not nice. It's not like California or anything like that. And then you've got obviously neighboring countries — in my country, Germany, they're totally lax on it. If you get caught with it nobody says anything. And in Holland it's legal. Yeah… I might have to move one day. I might have to relocate! (laughs)
Rocksalt.mx: Even in New York City now they have this thing, if you're caught with less than an ounce they will let you go.
Angela: Yeah, it's nice. Because I think that they could really use that money they are wasting on the war on drugs for better education, and maybe health care and all these things that have a massive shortage in the U.S. So that's a good move, I think. I hope a lot of people and a lot of, different states, will catch up to that.
Rocksalt.mx: One would hope. And not to dwell on it too much: do you roll your own or do you use a bong?
Angela: Oh, I use a vaporizer. I'm an asthmatic, so I don't smoke at all. So I use a vaporizer because it doesn't irritate my throat at all and it helps my asthma a lot. And you know, since I've been using weed, I haven't had to use any of my steroid inhalers. It really relaxes the airways, opens it up. And also, I will bake cookies with chocolate with it.
Read the entire interview from Rocksalt.mx.
Rocksalt.mx: This is your sixth full-length album with ARCH ENEMY. Are you still as energized and excited as when you began?
Angela: Yeah, this is sixth. I feel a lot better: perhaps a mixture of anxiety, excitement and having more knowledge about the whole thing. It's just like dropping into cold water: it's very exciting but at the same time it's very nerve-wracking and now we've all learned to swim. And in a very good way, you know? It's not just staying on the surface, staying alive, but to actually, you know, be able to compete with the best right now. And we're just kinda like a big fish in a pond – a bigger fish — not so small anymore. So, it actually feels — I don't wanna… it feels like if somebody asked you if you wanted to be 15 or 16 or 18 again. I neither want to be 18 again nor do I want to go back ten years. You know? I'm really happy where we are right now.
Rocksalt.mx: Did you foresee this kind of longevity with the band when you started out?
Angela: Well… I don't dwell on the past at all. I'm very much here in the present. Always. I do plan the future, as, you know, when I do something I want to make it last — it's just like with a relationship or anything I do. So we were always planning two, three years ahead, you know, but obviously you can't plan ten years ahead, so: no. I didn't think that I'd be doing this when I'm approaching my 40s! (laughs) But, hey — I am and it just feels really, really good. And my health is totally there — I'm actually fitter now than I was ten years ago, so that's awfully interesting. I think women peak in their 30s and 40s. I think that comes very handy, you know? Because when they have kids and they have to multi-task and take a lot of shit and be very, very flexible. And it's a lot. I think I'm actually peaking. I would say I'm stronger now than I was then. So, yeah — I didn't put the years out ahead but I am glad we are still here and still relevant and that we can still do it. Yeah.
Rocksalt.mx: You said you were sitting around listening to music late at night when you're stoned. And I want to make sure there's no misunderstanding by what you mean by "stoned."
Angela: Oh, I mean, obviously, weed — the stuff that grows outside in my garden and (laughs) it's obviously not legal, unfortunately, but — that's one of our political agendas in [ARCH ENEMY's new album] "Khaos Legions" is to legalize it. You know? (laughs)
Rocksalt.mx: Really? How come you're not covering "Legalize It" by Peter Tosh?
Angela: Yeaahhh… that's too obvious. But, uh…
Rocksalt.mx: Too obvious?
Angela: Well, yeah — maybe we should do it one day. Yeah, I think it's an awesome recreational… herb. I wouldn't call it drug, that's so negative. It's like, yeah, it's something you can buy at a drugstore, hopefully one day. So let's call it a drug.
Rocksalt.mx: What is the — you're in Sweden, right?
Angela: Yeah – oh, yes! The young generation, they've had a couple of votes now. They're trying to get it legalized. Which is good. It doesn't do any damage to people, except when you're prone to paranoia and schizophrenia then you've got to, you actually have to see a doctor if you've got problems like that. But for most people it's very harmless, compared to hard liquor. And Sweden is very damaged by hard liquor. They have a very high alcoholic rate here, you know. Especially among teenagers, and drinking hard stuff… I mean, honestly, I'd rather see a 16-year-old smoke a spliff than having a bottle of vodka in their hands, you know. So I just hope; but they're very tough on it. You can go to jail for it if you're caught with a spliff. Yeah. It's not nice. It's not like California or anything like that. And then you've got obviously neighboring countries — in my country, Germany, they're totally lax on it. If you get caught with it nobody says anything. And in Holland it's legal. Yeah… I might have to move one day. I might have to relocate! (laughs)
Rocksalt.mx: Even in New York City now they have this thing, if you're caught with less than an ounce they will let you go.
Angela: Yeah, it's nice. Because I think that they could really use that money they are wasting on the war on drugs for better education, and maybe health care and all these things that have a massive shortage in the U.S. So that's a good move, I think. I hope a lot of people and a lot of, different states, will catch up to that.
Rocksalt.mx: One would hope. And not to dwell on it too much: do you roll your own or do you use a bong?
Angela: Oh, I use a vaporizer. I'm an asthmatic, so I don't smoke at all. So I use a vaporizer because it doesn't irritate my throat at all and it helps my asthma a lot. And you know, since I've been using weed, I haven't had to use any of my steroid inhalers. It really relaxes the airways, opens it up. And also, I will bake cookies with chocolate with it.
Read the entire interview from Rocksalt.mx.
Mark Reale, the founding guitarist of the legendary metal band RIOT, passed away earlier today (Wednesday, January 25) in a San Antonio hospital due to complications of Crohn's disease — an ailment he has battled for most of his life. He was 56 years old.
Reale had reportedly been in a coma for the past two weeks after suffering a subarachnoid hemorrhage on January 11.
RIOT said in a statement: "To friends and fans of Mark Reale and RIOT, we are deeply saddened to confirm that Mark has lost his battle with a lifelong illness. Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated by Mark's family, friends, and bandmates at this difficult time."
Upon learning of Mark's passing, Brian Slagel, founder and CEO of Metal Blade Records, said, "I was a huge fan of RIOT's 'Fire Down Under' album and got to interview them for my fanzine. Great guys and I was lucky enough to finally reissue 'Fire Down Under' and the other early RIOT albums on Metal Blade. We signed the band for their second run, so to speak, and put out some records in the '90s that did well, especially in Europe and Japan. It was a pleasure working with them and Mark was always a kind soul — an AMAZING player who really has a big time place in the history of metal. One of the really nice guys who put out some incredible stuff."
Mark is survived by his father, Anthony Reale, and was preceded in death by his mother, Frances Reale.
RIOT played two shows without Reale last week — on January 18 at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill in New York City and on January 20 at Montage Music Hall in Rochester, New York — and is currently taking part in 70,000 Tons Of Metal, a four-day all-heavy metal cruise which set sail on Monday, January 23 aboard the Royal Caribbean Majesty Of The Seas from Miami, Florida.
Mark spent most of his life working and performing while enduring almost constant pain and the side effects of treatment for Crohn's disease. 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. Mark was struggling with these symptoms throughout the production of RIOT's new album, "Immortal Soul", and guitarist Mike Flyntz recorded a major portion of the guitars on the LP with Mark's creative direction while Reale was unable to perform.
RIOT's original singer Guy Speranza died on November 8, 2003 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 47 years old. Often regarded as the best RIOT vocalist, he sang on the group's first three full-length albums — "Rock City" (1977), "Narita" (1979) and "Fire Down Under" (1981) — before being replaced by Rhett Forrester. Forrester himself left in the mid-'80s to pursue a solo career, only to be murdered on January 22, 1994 in Atlanta.
Singer Mike Tirelli, who toured with RIOT after Mike DiMeo officially left the band in 2007, was diagnosed with stomach cancer in the fall of 2008 and underwent treatment for this life-threatening illness. All the treatments were reportedly a huge success in eradicating the disease.
Reale had reportedly been in a coma for the past two weeks after suffering a subarachnoid hemorrhage on January 11.
RIOT said in a statement: "To friends and fans of Mark Reale and RIOT, we are deeply saddened to confirm that Mark has lost his battle with a lifelong illness. Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated by Mark's family, friends, and bandmates at this difficult time."
Upon learning of Mark's passing, Brian Slagel, founder and CEO of Metal Blade Records, said, "I was a huge fan of RIOT's 'Fire Down Under' album and got to interview them for my fanzine. Great guys and I was lucky enough to finally reissue 'Fire Down Under' and the other early RIOT albums on Metal Blade. We signed the band for their second run, so to speak, and put out some records in the '90s that did well, especially in Europe and Japan. It was a pleasure working with them and Mark was always a kind soul — an AMAZING player who really has a big time place in the history of metal. One of the really nice guys who put out some incredible stuff."
Mark is survived by his father, Anthony Reale, and was preceded in death by his mother, Frances Reale.
RIOT played two shows without Reale last week — on January 18 at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill in New York City and on January 20 at Montage Music Hall in Rochester, New York — and is currently taking part in 70,000 Tons Of Metal, a four-day all-heavy metal cruise which set sail on Monday, January 23 aboard the Royal Caribbean Majesty Of The Seas from Miami, Florida.
Mark spent most of his life working and performing while enduring almost constant pain and the side effects of treatment for Crohn's disease. 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. Mark was struggling with these symptoms throughout the production of RIOT's new album, "Immortal Soul", and guitarist Mike Flyntz recorded a major portion of the guitars on the LP with Mark's creative direction while Reale was unable to perform.
RIOT's original singer Guy Speranza died on November 8, 2003 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 47 years old. Often regarded as the best RIOT vocalist, he sang on the group's first three full-length albums — "Rock City" (1977), "Narita" (1979) and "Fire Down Under" (1981) — before being replaced by Rhett Forrester. Forrester himself left in the mid-'80s to pursue a solo career, only to be murdered on January 22, 1994 in Atlanta.
Singer Mike Tirelli, who toured with RIOT after Mike DiMeo officially left the band in 2007, was diagnosed with stomach cancer in the fall of 2008 and underwent treatment for this life-threatening illness. All the treatments were reportedly a huge success in eradicating the disease.
Vocalist Mike DiMeo, who recorded six studio albums and one live album with RIOT between 1994 and 2006, has issued the following statement regarding the passing of the band's founding guitarist Mark Reale:
"I'm deeply saddened by the death of Mark Reale. He was a gifted songwriter, great musician and a true friend. I am honored and thankful that I shared many years with Mark touring and recording all over the world, memories that I will carry with me forever.
"Even though, to some, it may seem that he did not achieve massive commercial success, the only thing that Mark cared about was making music that inspired him. He was a true artist and his music is a reflection of that.
"To me, Mark's music is timeless... and I believe his many fans will see to it that his music lives on forever...
"Rest in peace, Mark... I will miss you... and shine on!"
Reale died yesterday (Wednesday, January 25) in a San Antonio hospital due to complications of Crohn's disease — an ailment he had battled for most of his life. He was 56 years old.
Reale had reportedly been in a coma for the past two weeks after suffering a subarachnoid hemorrhage on January 11.
Mark is survived by his father, Anthony Reale, and was preceded in death by his mother, Frances Reale.
Mark spent most of his life working and performing while enduring almost constant pain and the side effects of treatment for Crohn's disease. 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. Mark was struggling with these symptoms throughout the production of RIOT's new album, "Immortal Soul", and guitarist Mike Flyntz recorded a major portion of the guitars on the LP with Mark's creative direction while Reale was unable to perform.
"I'm deeply saddened by the death of Mark Reale. He was a gifted songwriter, great musician and a true friend. I am honored and thankful that I shared many years with Mark touring and recording all over the world, memories that I will carry with me forever.
"Even though, to some, it may seem that he did not achieve massive commercial success, the only thing that Mark cared about was making music that inspired him. He was a true artist and his music is a reflection of that.
"To me, Mark's music is timeless... and I believe his many fans will see to it that his music lives on forever...
"Rest in peace, Mark... I will miss you... and shine on!"
Reale died yesterday (Wednesday, January 25) in a San Antonio hospital due to complications of Crohn's disease — an ailment he had battled for most of his life. He was 56 years old.
Reale had reportedly been in a coma for the past two weeks after suffering a subarachnoid hemorrhage on January 11.
Mark is survived by his father, Anthony Reale, and was preceded in death by his mother, Frances Reale.
Mark spent most of his life working and performing while enduring almost constant pain and the side effects of treatment for Crohn's disease. 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. Mark was struggling with these symptoms throughout the production of RIOT's new album, "Immortal Soul", and guitarist Mike Flyntz recorded a major portion of the guitars on the LP with Mark's creative direction while Reale was unable to perform.
Former/current members of MEGADETH, ANTHRAX and PILEDRIVER have commented on the passing of Mark Reale, the founding guitarist of the legendary metal band RIOT. Reale died yesterday (Wednesday, January 25) in a San Antonio hospital due to complications of Crohn's disease — an ailment he had battled for most of his life. He was 56 years old.
Marty Friedman (ex-MEGADETH): "I just heard that Mark Reale from RIOT passed away. 'Rock City', 'Narita' and 'Fire Down Under' are three of my favorite albums of all time. I wore all three of them out and have loads of great memories attached to all those great songs. Thank you for the music. Friends please take care of yourselves."
Gord Kirchin (PILEDRIVER): "'Rock City'... 'Narita'... 'Fire Down Under'... 'Restless Breed'... 'Born In America'... 'Thundersteel'... 'The Privilege Of Power'... 'Nightbreaker'... 'Brethren Of The Long House'... 'Inishmore'... 'Sons Of Society'... 'Through The Storm'... 'Army Of One'... 'Immortal Soul'... Sickly underrated, but not by me. Indeed. An immortal soul if ever there was one. You will be missed, Mark... you will be missed."
Neil Turbin (DEATHRIDERS, ex-ANTHRAX): "RIP Mark Reale 1955-2012 RIOT guitarist and founder. My favorite metal band in high school and one of my greatest musical inspirations of all time. 'Fire Down Under' was such a huge influence on me when I was writing songs like 'Metal Thrashing Mad'. My sincere condolences to Mark's family, friends, fans and bandmates. Shine on, warrior."
Reale had reportedly been in a coma for the past two weeks after suffering a subarachnoid hemorrhage on January 11.
Mark is survived by his father, Anthony Reale, and was preceded in death by his mother, Frances Reale.
Mark spent most of his life working and performing while enduring almost constant pain and the side effects of treatment for Crohn's disease. 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. Mark was struggling with these symptoms throughout the production of RIOT's new album, "Immortal Soul", and guitarist Mike Flyntz recorded a major portion of the guitars on the LP with Mark's creative direction while Reale was unable to perform.
Marty Friedman (ex-MEGADETH): "I just heard that Mark Reale from RIOT passed away. 'Rock City', 'Narita' and 'Fire Down Under' are three of my favorite albums of all time. I wore all three of them out and have loads of great memories attached to all those great songs. Thank you for the music. Friends please take care of yourselves."
Gord Kirchin (PILEDRIVER): "'Rock City'... 'Narita'... 'Fire Down Under'... 'Restless Breed'... 'Born In America'... 'Thundersteel'... 'The Privilege Of Power'... 'Nightbreaker'... 'Brethren Of The Long House'... 'Inishmore'... 'Sons Of Society'... 'Through The Storm'... 'Army Of One'... 'Immortal Soul'... Sickly underrated, but not by me. Indeed. An immortal soul if ever there was one. You will be missed, Mark... you will be missed."
Neil Turbin (DEATHRIDERS, ex-ANTHRAX): "RIP Mark Reale 1955-2012 RIOT guitarist and founder. My favorite metal band in high school and one of my greatest musical inspirations of all time. 'Fire Down Under' was such a huge influence on me when I was writing songs like 'Metal Thrashing Mad'. My sincere condolences to Mark's family, friends, fans and bandmates. Shine on, warrior."
Reale had reportedly been in a coma for the past two weeks after suffering a subarachnoid hemorrhage on January 11.
Mark is survived by his father, Anthony Reale, and was preceded in death by his mother, Frances Reale.
Mark spent most of his life working and performing while enduring almost constant pain and the side effects of treatment for Crohn's disease. 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. Mark was struggling with these symptoms throughout the production of RIOT's new album, "Immortal Soul", and guitarist Mike Flyntz recorded a major portion of the guitars on the LP with Mark's creative direction while Reale was unable to perform.
Swedish hard rockers EUROPE have set "Bag Of Bones" as the title of their ninth studio album, tentatively due in April. The CD is being produced by Kevin Shirley, who has previously worked with IRON MAIDEN, JOE BONAMASSA, BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION, BLACK STONE CHERRY and JOURNEY, among others.
Regarding the new CD title, EUROPE drummer Ian Haugland said, "It's not [called 'Bag Of Bones'] because we all have lost tons of weight or found a new interest in archeology or dogs... It's just because it sounds fuckin' cool!"
In a July 2011 press release, EUROPE singer Joey Tempest stated about the bands' new CD, "We still feel we have one hell of a rock record to make. Kevin's the man for the job. We love his work with BONAMASSA, BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION, and BLACK STONE CHERRY. He's the real deal. We're ready to do some serious damage."
Last year, EUROPE met up with Shirley in Stockholm to discuss the direction of the next album. Based on reactions from the fans and media, EUROPE's 2009 album, "Last Look At Eden", proved to be the band's most important record since "The Final Countdown". "I've been a big fan of EUROPE's work for many years," said Shirley. "The band is influential and highly underrated. I can't wait to make the upcoming album their most explosive to date."
The new material suggests a more straightforward rock approach evident in "Doghouse" — a new song EUROPE performed on their most recent U.K. tour (see video below). The song is also featured on EUROPE's "Europe: Live at Shepherd's Bush" DVD, released in August 2011 via earMUSIC CDs and DVDs.
earMUSIC last year released a limited deluxe book with pictures by Denis O'Regan. "Live Look At Eden" features exclusive live audio and the stunning performance at 2010's iTunes Festival in London.
Regarding the new CD title, EUROPE drummer Ian Haugland said, "It's not [called 'Bag Of Bones'] because we all have lost tons of weight or found a new interest in archeology or dogs... It's just because it sounds fuckin' cool!"
In a July 2011 press release, EUROPE singer Joey Tempest stated about the bands' new CD, "We still feel we have one hell of a rock record to make. Kevin's the man for the job. We love his work with BONAMASSA, BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION, and BLACK STONE CHERRY. He's the real deal. We're ready to do some serious damage."
Last year, EUROPE met up with Shirley in Stockholm to discuss the direction of the next album. Based on reactions from the fans and media, EUROPE's 2009 album, "Last Look At Eden", proved to be the band's most important record since "The Final Countdown". "I've been a big fan of EUROPE's work for many years," said Shirley. "The band is influential and highly underrated. I can't wait to make the upcoming album their most explosive to date."
The new material suggests a more straightforward rock approach evident in "Doghouse" — a new song EUROPE performed on their most recent U.K. tour (see video below). The song is also featured on EUROPE's "Europe: Live at Shepherd's Bush" DVD, released in August 2011 via earMUSIC CDs and DVDs.
earMUSIC last year released a limited deluxe book with pictures by Denis O'Regan. "Live Look At Eden" features exclusive live audio and the stunning performance at 2010's iTunes Festival in London.
Richie Kotzen (MR. BIG, POISON) has commented on the rumors that he has been tapped by Mike Portnoy (DREAM THEATER, AVENGED SEVENFOLD, ADRENALINE MOB) and Billy Sheehan (MR. BIG) to be the guitarist/vocalist of their new project following the recent departure of John Sykes (WHITESNAKE, BLUE MURDER, THIN LIZZY).
Said Kotzen in a post on his Facebook page: "I wanted to address the recent rumor about the project with Billy, Mike, and I... Although we did throw some ideas around, neither of us decided to make any public announcements, so today's Internet buzz was a surprise. I will say I am a fan of both Mike and Billy. I'm sure a collaboration would produce some interesting results."
Although Portnoy and Sykes demoed a dozen or so songs at a Los Angeles studio last year, their vastly different work ethics and conflicting schedules were solely to blame for the dissolution of their collaboration. Portnoy explained on Twitter, "Sad but true... I tried my best to make it work... Me and [Billy Sheehan] couldn't wait around any longer... [Billy] and I are moving on and have already begun work with another guitarist/vocalist, keeping the original 'power trio' concept."
Portnoy and Sheehan were joined by guitarist Tony Macalpine and keyboardist Derek Sherinian (DREAM THEATER, PLANET X, BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION) for an appearance at the SABIAN Live event on Friday, January 20 at the Sheraton Park Hotel (next to the Hilton) in Anaheim, California as part of the the 2012 NAMM (National Association Of Music Merchants) show. Portnoy, Sheehan, Macalpine and Sherinian also performed together on January 14 at the twenty-third annual Guitar Center's Drum-Off, the nationwide search for the next great undiscovered drummer, at Club Nokia in Los Angeles, California.
Portnoy, who co-founded DREAM THEATER more than 20 years ago, abruptly quit the band in September 2010 while on tour with AVENGED SEVENFOLD. He has since been replaced by Mike Mangini (ANNIHILATOR, EXTREME, JAMES LABRIE, STEVE VAI).
Portnoy played on AVENGED SEVENFOLD's latest album, "Nightmare", following the death of that band's drummer, Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan, and toured with them for the entire second half of 2010.
Said Kotzen in a post on his Facebook page: "I wanted to address the recent rumor about the project with Billy, Mike, and I... Although we did throw some ideas around, neither of us decided to make any public announcements, so today's Internet buzz was a surprise. I will say I am a fan of both Mike and Billy. I'm sure a collaboration would produce some interesting results."
Although Portnoy and Sykes demoed a dozen or so songs at a Los Angeles studio last year, their vastly different work ethics and conflicting schedules were solely to blame for the dissolution of their collaboration. Portnoy explained on Twitter, "Sad but true... I tried my best to make it work... Me and [Billy Sheehan] couldn't wait around any longer... [Billy] and I are moving on and have already begun work with another guitarist/vocalist, keeping the original 'power trio' concept."
Portnoy and Sheehan were joined by guitarist Tony Macalpine and keyboardist Derek Sherinian (DREAM THEATER, PLANET X, BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION) for an appearance at the SABIAN Live event on Friday, January 20 at the Sheraton Park Hotel (next to the Hilton) in Anaheim, California as part of the the 2012 NAMM (National Association Of Music Merchants) show. Portnoy, Sheehan, Macalpine and Sherinian also performed together on January 14 at the twenty-third annual Guitar Center's Drum-Off, the nationwide search for the next great undiscovered drummer, at Club Nokia in Los Angeles, California.
Portnoy, who co-founded DREAM THEATER more than 20 years ago, abruptly quit the band in September 2010 while on tour with AVENGED SEVENFOLD. He has since been replaced by Mike Mangini (ANNIHILATOR, EXTREME, JAMES LABRIE, STEVE VAI).
Portnoy played on AVENGED SEVENFOLD's latest album, "Nightmare", following the death of that band's drummer, Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan, and toured with them for the entire second half of 2010.
Mike Williams IX — author, musician and frontman for New Orleans punk/metal legends EYEHATEGOD — will appear with famed 1960s icon and revolutionary John "Ten for Two" Sinclair at the WTF festival on March 14 at Ruta Maya Coffee House in Austin, Texas. The two will speak separately and together, creating unforgettable word jazz in their wake, and performing with an Austin, Texas supergroup featuring Mike Flannery created just for this event. Also appearing at WTF will be shock model and artist Ugly Shyla, who will be performing on stage and showing some of her amazing dark dolls and art, as well as controversial comic Rick Shapiro.
This event is organized by Shane Bugbee, underground raconteur, publisher, promoter, and former radio personality.
During the last election year, Bugbee and his wife Amy traveled the USA for their project called "A Year At The Wheel", which produced over 150 short videos and a forthcoming book. The duo will be screening some of their videos and hosting the event.
WTF is coming to Austin to put those corporate shills at SXSW in check, and give the people what they really want — brutally honest words, spoken beautifully and delivered by some of the biggest names in the underground, crossing three generations of infamy and outspokenness.
WTF Festival
March 14, 2012
@ Ruta Maya Coffee House
3601 South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78704-7250
(512) 707-9637 ?
This event is organized by Shane Bugbee, underground raconteur, publisher, promoter, and former radio personality.
During the last election year, Bugbee and his wife Amy traveled the USA for their project called "A Year At The Wheel", which produced over 150 short videos and a forthcoming book. The duo will be screening some of their videos and hosting the event.
WTF is coming to Austin to put those corporate shills at SXSW in check, and give the people what they really want — brutally honest words, spoken beautifully and delivered by some of the biggest names in the underground, crossing three generations of infamy and outspokenness.
WTF Festival
March 14, 2012
@ Ruta Maya Coffee House
3601 South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78704-7250
(512) 707-9637 ?
According to TMZ.com, JOURNEY drummer Deen Castronovo was arrested this past Saturday, January 21 in Oregon for allegedly assaulting his girlfriend. Deen was booked into Polk County Jail on a number of charges, including coercion, assault, criminal mischief , interfering with making a report and harassment.
Sources tell TMZ.com that some of the charges stem from an altercation that occurred after the alleged physical blowout when Deen's girlfriend ran out of the house to call her father and the musician allegedly grabbed the phone out of her hand and refused to let her contact her dad.
A representative for Deen tells TMZ.com that the incident "was a misunderstanding that should not have been escalated to such a level in the first place."
Deen was released after posting $52,500.00 bail.
Castronovo's booking photo can be seen at TMZ.com.
Sources tell TMZ.com that some of the charges stem from an altercation that occurred after the alleged physical blowout when Deen's girlfriend ran out of the house to call her father and the musician allegedly grabbed the phone out of her hand and refused to let her contact her dad.
A representative for Deen tells TMZ.com that the incident "was a misunderstanding that should not have been escalated to such a level in the first place."
Deen was released after posting $52,500.00 bail.
Castronovo's booking photo can be seen at TMZ.com.
Brendan "Brush" Shiels, founding member of the late 1960s/early 1970s Irish blues-rock act SKID ROW — which is best known as legendary guitarist Gary Moore's first professional band — has posted a YouTube video in which he invites Sebastian Bach, the former frontman of the American rock group SKID ROW, to sing on his upcoming album, which will be released under the SKID ROW name.
Shiels previously released a video message in which he accused the American SKID ROW of using the band name without his permission. He also talked about how he believed the story that Moore received a $35,000 payoff by the American band for the use of the name is nonsense and revealed that he unsuccessfully tried to contact Jon Bon Jovi (with whom the Sebastian Bach-fronted SKID ROW reportedly signed a publishing deal prior to releasing its first album) and Doc McGhee, early manager of the the American SKID ROW, to resolve the SKID ROW name issue once and for all.
In the latest video message, which can be seen below, Shiels addresses Bach directly, stating, "In my opinion, you're one of the greatest frontmen in American rock of all time. For me, you're up there with Ozzy Osbourne, Jon Bon Jovi, Steve Tyler from AEROSMITH. Man, you've got it all. The reason I'm trying to get in contact with you… Can you imagine this: Sebastian Bach and SKID ROW? When I say SKID ROW [pointing to his chest]… When Rachel [Bolan, bassist of American SKID ROW] and Snake [guitarist of American SKID ROW] and Bon Jovi were in kindergarten, I was trucking around America playing for very little, blessed to be playing with Frank Zappa at the Fillmore West, played with the ALLMAN BROTHERS. Up and down Canada with BECK, BOGERT & APPICE… The reason I'm trying to get in contact with you is very simple: I have a new album [coming out]. Now I've been waiting 25 years for this opportunity and it only comes along once in a lifetime. Well, Sebastian . . . if you were singing my songs, we couldn't fail. 'I'll] give you 50 percent of the songs — 50 percent of the roaylties. I'll split the band with you, 50/50. Your name is top of the bill — Sebastian Bach and SKID ROW. We could do the ultimate . . . tour; it can't fail. I'm in New York this Saturday, [January 28]. I'd love to meet you, I'd love to get together with you, I'd love to talk with you. But I'll tell you something: me and you together, we can't fail. I'm one of the greatest Irish rockers of all time. I know for a fact, I've seen you… you have the voice, you have the looks, you have the charisma, you have the passion. Man, I need you, but you need me. Now think about it: Sebastian Bach and SKID ROW. We split everything 50/50, we call the shots together; we can't fail, Sebastian. We're unstoppable. Let's get together and do it."
Shiels' video message can be seen below. Also available is a separate YouTube clip containing a track from Brush's new SKID ROW album.
Shiels previously released a video message in which he accused the American SKID ROW of using the band name without his permission. He also talked about how he believed the story that Moore received a $35,000 payoff by the American band for the use of the name is nonsense and revealed that he unsuccessfully tried to contact Jon Bon Jovi (with whom the Sebastian Bach-fronted SKID ROW reportedly signed a publishing deal prior to releasing its first album) and Doc McGhee, early manager of the the American SKID ROW, to resolve the SKID ROW name issue once and for all.
In the latest video message, which can be seen below, Shiels addresses Bach directly, stating, "In my opinion, you're one of the greatest frontmen in American rock of all time. For me, you're up there with Ozzy Osbourne, Jon Bon Jovi, Steve Tyler from AEROSMITH. Man, you've got it all. The reason I'm trying to get in contact with you… Can you imagine this: Sebastian Bach and SKID ROW? When I say SKID ROW [pointing to his chest]… When Rachel [Bolan, bassist of American SKID ROW] and Snake [guitarist of American SKID ROW] and Bon Jovi were in kindergarten, I was trucking around America playing for very little, blessed to be playing with Frank Zappa at the Fillmore West, played with the ALLMAN BROTHERS. Up and down Canada with BECK, BOGERT & APPICE… The reason I'm trying to get in contact with you is very simple: I have a new album [coming out]. Now I've been waiting 25 years for this opportunity and it only comes along once in a lifetime. Well, Sebastian . . . if you were singing my songs, we couldn't fail. 'I'll] give you 50 percent of the songs — 50 percent of the roaylties. I'll split the band with you, 50/50. Your name is top of the bill — Sebastian Bach and SKID ROW. We could do the ultimate . . . tour; it can't fail. I'm in New York this Saturday, [January 28]. I'd love to meet you, I'd love to get together with you, I'd love to talk with you. But I'll tell you something: me and you together, we can't fail. I'm one of the greatest Irish rockers of all time. I know for a fact, I've seen you… you have the voice, you have the looks, you have the charisma, you have the passion. Man, I need you, but you need me. Now think about it: Sebastian Bach and SKID ROW. We split everything 50/50, we call the shots together; we can't fail, Sebastian. We're unstoppable. Let's get together and do it."
Shiels' video message can be seen below. Also available is a separate YouTube clip containing a track from Brush's new SKID ROW album.
IMPERIAL STATE ELECTRIC, the Swedish rock band led by THE HELLACOPTERS architect and former ENTOMBED drummer Nicke Andersson, will release its new album, "Pop War", on March 9 via Psychout. The ten-song CD was recorded at Gutterview Studios in Stockholm.
For all the vinyl lovers out there, "Pop War" will be out on a strictly limited clear vinyl version limited to 300 copies only on February 24, and as a red vinyl version limited to 600 copies on March 2. On March 9, the album will be made available as a regular CD, as a limited CD version in 10-inch sleeve with an exclusive "Iron On", and on black vinyl with download code.
Since the release of its self-titled debut album in 2010, IMPERIAL STATE ELECTRIC has played most of the big festivals, played support to both GUNS N' ROSES and KISS, toured in Sweden, Spain, Germany, and also found time to release the EP "In Concert" containing studio versions of their live favorites.
IMPERIAL STATE ELECTRIC consists of Andersson, Dolf de Borst on bass, Thomas Eriksson (ex-CAPTAIN MURPHY) on drums and Tobias Egge of THE OBJECTS on guitar.
"Pop War" track listing:
01. Uh Huh
02. Narrow Line
03. Can't Seem To Shake It Of My Mind
04. Back To Main
05. Waltz For Vincent
06. Sheltered In The Sand
07. Empty Hands
08. Monarchy Madness
09. Deride And Conquer
10. Enough To Break Your Heart
IMPERIAL STATE ELECTRIC is:
Nicke Andersson - Lead Vocals, Guitar
Tobias Egge - Guitar, Vocals
Dolf De Borst - Bass. Vocals
Tomas Eriksson - Drums, Vocals
For all the vinyl lovers out there, "Pop War" will be out on a strictly limited clear vinyl version limited to 300 copies only on February 24, and as a red vinyl version limited to 600 copies on March 2. On March 9, the album will be made available as a regular CD, as a limited CD version in 10-inch sleeve with an exclusive "Iron On", and on black vinyl with download code.
Since the release of its self-titled debut album in 2010, IMPERIAL STATE ELECTRIC has played most of the big festivals, played support to both GUNS N' ROSES and KISS, toured in Sweden, Spain, Germany, and also found time to release the EP "In Concert" containing studio versions of their live favorites.
IMPERIAL STATE ELECTRIC consists of Andersson, Dolf de Borst on bass, Thomas Eriksson (ex-CAPTAIN MURPHY) on drums and Tobias Egge of THE OBJECTS on guitar.
"Pop War" track listing:
01. Uh Huh
02. Narrow Line
03. Can't Seem To Shake It Of My Mind
04. Back To Main
05. Waltz For Vincent
06. Sheltered In The Sand
07. Empty Hands
08. Monarchy Madness
09. Deride And Conquer
10. Enough To Break Your Heart
IMPERIAL STATE ELECTRIC is:
Nicke Andersson - Lead Vocals, Guitar
Tobias Egge - Guitar, Vocals
Dolf De Borst - Bass. Vocals
Tomas Eriksson - Drums, Vocals
PIGEON TOE, the German progressive rock band featuring TRIPTYKON drummer Norman Lonhard, has inked a deal with Lifeforce Records. The band's debut album will be released later in the year.
Brothers Martin Fischer and Hans Fischer, who were previously in such bands as FEAR MY THOUGHTS, BACKSLIDE and MONGOUSE, got the idea to form a new project in 2008. After coming up with several rough song ideas, they asked their then-FEAR MY THOUGHTS bandmate Lonhard to sit behin the kit for the new group. A short time later, bassist Ben Krahl (FINAL KINGS) joined the fold, to be followed by Patrick Hagmann on third guitar and synths.
PIGEON TOE played several shows in 2010 and 2011 with such acts as KARNIVOOL and LONG DISTANCE CALLING, whom they supported on their "Into The Black Wide Open" tour through Germany and Switzerland.
PIGEON TOE is:
Martin Fischer (Marsn) - Guitar/Vocals
Hans Fischer (Hanson) - Guitar/Vocals
Norman Lonhard - Drums
Patrick Hagmann - Guitar/Synths
Ben Krahl - Bass
Brothers Martin Fischer and Hans Fischer, who were previously in such bands as FEAR MY THOUGHTS, BACKSLIDE and MONGOUSE, got the idea to form a new project in 2008. After coming up with several rough song ideas, they asked their then-FEAR MY THOUGHTS bandmate Lonhard to sit behin the kit for the new group. A short time later, bassist Ben Krahl (FINAL KINGS) joined the fold, to be followed by Patrick Hagmann on third guitar and synths.
PIGEON TOE played several shows in 2010 and 2011 with such acts as KARNIVOOL and LONG DISTANCE CALLING, whom they supported on their "Into The Black Wide Open" tour through Germany and Switzerland.
PIGEON TOE is:
Martin Fischer (Marsn) - Guitar/Vocals
Hans Fischer (Hanson) - Guitar/Vocals
Norman Lonhard - Drums
Patrick Hagmann - Guitar/Synths
Ben Krahl - Bass
The Grammy Foundation has announced rock icon and philanthropist Bret Michaels as the closing performer for One Night Only: A Celebration Of The Live Music Experience — the 14th Annual Grammy Foundation Music Preservation Project — to be held Thursday, February 9 at the Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills, California.
One Night Only: A Celebration Of The Live Music Experience will explore the history and evolution of live concert performances and celebrate the various and invaluable contributions of those events, the key players behind them, and their influence on the American cultural landscape. The event will feature live musical performances and archival footage.
Co-hosted by television personality Sharon Osbourne and Grammy-winning guitarist Steve Vai, performers will include Grammy winner Shelby Lynne; Marc Martel, Queen Extravaganza contest winner; and Beverly McClellan, season one finalist on NBC's "The Voice". Previously announced performers include Grammy winners Robert Cray, Jonny Lang and Mavis Staples; current Grammy nominees Dave Koz and Ledisi; and A Fine Frenzy, the Colburn Orchestra and Tyrese. The evening's musical director will be Darrell Brown, songwriter/producer, Recording Academy Trustee and Grammy Foundation Board member.
General admission tickets are $25 per person.
For tickets and information, click here.
One Night Only: A Celebration Of The Live Music Experience will explore the history and evolution of live concert performances and celebrate the various and invaluable contributions of those events, the key players behind them, and their influence on the American cultural landscape. The event will feature live musical performances and archival footage.
Co-hosted by television personality Sharon Osbourne and Grammy-winning guitarist Steve Vai, performers will include Grammy winner Shelby Lynne; Marc Martel, Queen Extravaganza contest winner; and Beverly McClellan, season one finalist on NBC's "The Voice". Previously announced performers include Grammy winners Robert Cray, Jonny Lang and Mavis Staples; current Grammy nominees Dave Koz and Ledisi; and A Fine Frenzy, the Colburn Orchestra and Tyrese. The evening's musical director will be Darrell Brown, songwriter/producer, Recording Academy Trustee and Grammy Foundation Board member.
General admission tickets are $25 per person.
For tickets and information, click here.
Norway's TRAIL OF TEARS has issued the following update:
"Today we have to announce that our longtime drummer, Cato Jensen, has parted ways with the band. Cato has decided to make some changes in his life and focus on other priorities.
"While the band was more than willing to continue the co-operation, we have to accept and support Cato's decision that it would be too hard to combine these changes with playing in a band that demands a lot of focus and dedication.
"We want to thank our friend Cato for his commitment over the years and wish him all the best for the future.
"This brings us to announce that TRAIL OF TEARS is hereby looking for a new person to fill the drum stool. Interested candidates should have both studio and live experience, must be dedicated, and able and willing to tour.
"The band is currently putting the finishing touches to their seventh album and festivals and tour dates around the world has been booked for 2012 with more to follow.
"Interested candidates (preferably European residents), can contact ronny@trailoftears.no. Make sure that you include your personal information, biography, a photo and some video links to your work."
The first teaser for the forthcoming seventh album from TRAIL OF TEARS is available below.
TRAIL OF TEARS in September finished recording its as-yet-untitled new CD at Sound Suite Studio in Marseille, France with producer Terje Refsnes. The band is currently seeking a suitable record label to release the effort.
Commented the band: "Cathrine [Paulsen] came through the extreme schedule with flying colours, putting the finishing vocals on the end result and delivered a performance for the history books!
"We believe that we have created something extraordinary and can't wait to share it with you all. Never before has a recording process involved so much blood, sweat and tears!"
TRAIL OF TEARS in 2010 parted ways with guitarist Pål Olsen and opted to carry on as a five-piece.
TRAIL OF TEARS's sixth album, "Bloodstained Endurance", was recorded and mixed over a six-week period at Sound Suite Studio in Marseille, France with producer Terje Refsnes. Mastering duties were handled by Mika Jussila at Finnvox Studios in Finland. The cover artwork for the album was designed by acclaimed artist Travis Smith (AMORPHIS, OPETH, NEVERMORE).
In 2007, TRAIL OF TEARS was rejoined by vocalist Cathrine Paulsen, who sang on the group's 2002 album, "A New Dimension of Might".
"Today we have to announce that our longtime drummer, Cato Jensen, has parted ways with the band. Cato has decided to make some changes in his life and focus on other priorities.
"While the band was more than willing to continue the co-operation, we have to accept and support Cato's decision that it would be too hard to combine these changes with playing in a band that demands a lot of focus and dedication.
"We want to thank our friend Cato for his commitment over the years and wish him all the best for the future.
"This brings us to announce that TRAIL OF TEARS is hereby looking for a new person to fill the drum stool. Interested candidates should have both studio and live experience, must be dedicated, and able and willing to tour.
"The band is currently putting the finishing touches to their seventh album and festivals and tour dates around the world has been booked for 2012 with more to follow.
"Interested candidates (preferably European residents), can contact ronny@trailoftears.no. Make sure that you include your personal information, biography, a photo and some video links to your work."
The first teaser for the forthcoming seventh album from TRAIL OF TEARS is available below.
TRAIL OF TEARS in September finished recording its as-yet-untitled new CD at Sound Suite Studio in Marseille, France with producer Terje Refsnes. The band is currently seeking a suitable record label to release the effort.
Commented the band: "Cathrine [Paulsen] came through the extreme schedule with flying colours, putting the finishing vocals on the end result and delivered a performance for the history books!
"We believe that we have created something extraordinary and can't wait to share it with you all. Never before has a recording process involved so much blood, sweat and tears!"
TRAIL OF TEARS in 2010 parted ways with guitarist Pål Olsen and opted to carry on as a five-piece.
TRAIL OF TEARS's sixth album, "Bloodstained Endurance", was recorded and mixed over a six-week period at Sound Suite Studio in Marseille, France with producer Terje Refsnes. Mastering duties were handled by Mika Jussila at Finnvox Studios in Finland. The cover artwork for the album was designed by acclaimed artist Travis Smith (AMORPHIS, OPETH, NEVERMORE).
In 2007, TRAIL OF TEARS was rejoined by vocalist Cathrine Paulsen, who sang on the group's 2002 album, "A New Dimension of Might".
NEOANDERTALS, METSATÖLL and X-PANDA have been nominated in the "Metal" category at the 15th annual Estonian Music Awards (the Estonian equivalent to the Grammy Awards). The largest and oldest Estonian music awards show will be held Thursday, February 2 at the Nokia Concert Hall in Tallinn, Estonia and will be broadcast live on the Estonian channel TV3.
The nominees in the "Metal" category are as follows:
* NEOANDERTALS - "Ebu Gogo Gutting the Child"
* METSATÖLL - "Ulg"
* X-PANDA - "Flight Of Fancy"
For more information (in Estonian), visit www.muusikaauhinnad.eu.
The nominees in the "Metal" category are as follows:
* NEOANDERTALS - "Ebu Gogo Gutting the Child"
* METSATÖLL - "Ulg"
* X-PANDA - "Flight Of Fancy"
For more information (in Estonian), visit www.muusikaauhinnad.eu.
Canadian metallers CANCER BATS will release their fourth full-length album, "Dead Set On Living", in the U.S. on April 24 via Metal Blade Records. Once again utilizing the legendary Vespa Studios and producers Eric Ratz and Kenny Luong, the CD brings yet another dimension to the BATS' menacing style of thrash-tinged hardcore rock.
"We're so stoked to be back in the Metal Blade family!" said CANCER BATS vocalist Liam Joseph Cormier. "We got to know so many amazing people at the label when we were a part of Black Market Activities and now it's so rad that were part of the Metal Blade roster! So many awesome people work at the label and they put out so many sweet bands, I couldn't me more stoked."
He added: "We really strived for that raw, off-the-floor vibe this time around, it's really the bridge between our live show and what we put on record."
Tracks like "R.A.T.S." (featuring guest vocals from Rob Urbinati of SACRIFICE) and "The Void" are laced with the gritty, sludgy groove that first emerged on cuts from 2008's "Hail Destroyer", while the blistering first single "Old Blood" roars with the riot-inducing speed and aggression so familiar to the band's fans. The blazing "Bastards!" also features vocal boosts from DEVILDRIVER's Dez Fafara and AN HORSE's Kate Cooper.
"We've been very lucky to experiment as much as we have," Cormier offered, crediting the band's loyal following for their fortune. "I love that we can have thrash songs, hardcore songs, and the more QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE or KYUSS kind of groove-based tunes."
Thematically, the album offers a strong focus on the bilateral relationship of dark and light, destruction and construction, life and death. The title track, for example, refers to a close friend of the band who ended up in the hospital in serious condition; only to have the experience cement his will to survive. "Road Sick", as the title may imply, finds Cormier struggling with the hardships that come with a career spent on the road.
"Our lives are all about touring, but that song is more universal," Cormier revealed. "It's really for anyone away from their loved ones, dealing with that situation."
Still, whereas 2010's "Bears, Mayors, Scraps & Bones" had a much darker tinge, "Dead Set On Living" strikes a tighter balance between the opposing forces and brings listeners closer to the light at the end of the tunnel by encouraging them to push through peril. "We all reach these dark places where we feel angry or alone," said the singer, "but that gives us a reason to pick ourselves up and strive to make something better."
Since first turning heads with 2006's "Birthing The Giant", CANCER BATS, made up of Liam Cormier (vocals), Scott Middleton (guitar), Mike Peters (drums) and Jaye Schwarzer (bass), is one of the hardest working bands in the music industry. The band spent close to 300 days away from home in 2011, and will likely come close to that in 2012.
The CANCER BATS recently revealed to fans that on April 21, 2012 in London, U.K., they would play six shows in five different venues, all within the space of 24 hours. Dubbed the "Pentagram" our (the location of the venues when joined together form the shape of a pentagram), all six shows sold out in the first week. A spring cross-Canada tour in support of "Dead Set On Living" is in the works, with dates to be announced soon.
"Dead Set On Living" track listing:
01. R.A.T.S.
02. Bricks and Mortar
03. Road Sick
04. Breathe Armageddon
05. Dead Set On Living
06. The Void
07. Old Blood
08. Drunken Physics
09. Bastards
10. Rally The Wicked
11. New World Alliance
"We're so stoked to be back in the Metal Blade family!" said CANCER BATS vocalist Liam Joseph Cormier. "We got to know so many amazing people at the label when we were a part of Black Market Activities and now it's so rad that were part of the Metal Blade roster! So many awesome people work at the label and they put out so many sweet bands, I couldn't me more stoked."
He added: "We really strived for that raw, off-the-floor vibe this time around, it's really the bridge between our live show and what we put on record."
Tracks like "R.A.T.S." (featuring guest vocals from Rob Urbinati of SACRIFICE) and "The Void" are laced with the gritty, sludgy groove that first emerged on cuts from 2008's "Hail Destroyer", while the blistering first single "Old Blood" roars with the riot-inducing speed and aggression so familiar to the band's fans. The blazing "Bastards!" also features vocal boosts from DEVILDRIVER's Dez Fafara and AN HORSE's Kate Cooper.
"We've been very lucky to experiment as much as we have," Cormier offered, crediting the band's loyal following for their fortune. "I love that we can have thrash songs, hardcore songs, and the more QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE or KYUSS kind of groove-based tunes."
Thematically, the album offers a strong focus on the bilateral relationship of dark and light, destruction and construction, life and death. The title track, for example, refers to a close friend of the band who ended up in the hospital in serious condition; only to have the experience cement his will to survive. "Road Sick", as the title may imply, finds Cormier struggling with the hardships that come with a career spent on the road.
"Our lives are all about touring, but that song is more universal," Cormier revealed. "It's really for anyone away from their loved ones, dealing with that situation."
Still, whereas 2010's "Bears, Mayors, Scraps & Bones" had a much darker tinge, "Dead Set On Living" strikes a tighter balance between the opposing forces and brings listeners closer to the light at the end of the tunnel by encouraging them to push through peril. "We all reach these dark places where we feel angry or alone," said the singer, "but that gives us a reason to pick ourselves up and strive to make something better."
Since first turning heads with 2006's "Birthing The Giant", CANCER BATS, made up of Liam Cormier (vocals), Scott Middleton (guitar), Mike Peters (drums) and Jaye Schwarzer (bass), is one of the hardest working bands in the music industry. The band spent close to 300 days away from home in 2011, and will likely come close to that in 2012.
The CANCER BATS recently revealed to fans that on April 21, 2012 in London, U.K., they would play six shows in five different venues, all within the space of 24 hours. Dubbed the "Pentagram" our (the location of the venues when joined together form the shape of a pentagram), all six shows sold out in the first week. A spring cross-Canada tour in support of "Dead Set On Living" is in the works, with dates to be announced soon.
"Dead Set On Living" track listing:
01. R.A.T.S.
02. Bricks and Mortar
03. Road Sick
04. Breathe Armageddon
05. Dead Set On Living
06. The Void
07. Old Blood
08. Drunken Physics
09. Bastards
10. Rally The Wicked
11. New World Alliance
Former EMPEROR frontman Ihsahn (real name: Vegard Sverre Tveitan) will make a guest appearance on the sophomore solo album from ex-NEVERMORE guitarist Jeff Loomis. The CD, which is being produced by Aaron Smith (7 HORNS 7 EYES), is scheduled for release later in the year via Century Media Records.
Commented Ihsahn: "I was both surprised and honored when Jeff asked me to sing on one of the songs for his upcoming album. He sent me a killer track, so it was easy to get inspiration for both words and vocal ideas, and I think it came out really well.
"Jeff is an amazing musician and I'm really looking forward to hearing the final album. Also, in the collaborative spirit, I got him to lay down a solo for my own new album."
Added Loomis: "I know most of you are aware that Christine Rhoades is doing some vocals on my album. At first I thought she'd be the only guest singer on the record, but then this one song started coming together, it's pretty brutal.
"I've always wanted to do really, really heavy music and after hearing this, both Aaron and myself thought we needed some crazy, sick singer on it. We just sat around tossing names out for a bit, nothing really was sticking and then Aaron says, 'I got it...Ihsahn' and it was one of those moments where you knew that was the answer all along, it just hadn't been unlocked in your mind yet.
"Anyway, a few short emails back and forth and we had his vocal track in. It came out amazing. I can't wait for you to hear it.
"Ihsahn, thanks again, it's an honor to have you on my record."
Other musicians who have recorded guest appearances on Loomis' new solo album include fellow axemen Marty Friedman (ex-MEGADETH), Tony Macalpine and Chris Poland (ex-MEGADETH).
Commented Ihsahn: "I was both surprised and honored when Jeff asked me to sing on one of the songs for his upcoming album. He sent me a killer track, so it was easy to get inspiration for both words and vocal ideas, and I think it came out really well.
"Jeff is an amazing musician and I'm really looking forward to hearing the final album. Also, in the collaborative spirit, I got him to lay down a solo for my own new album."
Added Loomis: "I know most of you are aware that Christine Rhoades is doing some vocals on my album. At first I thought she'd be the only guest singer on the record, but then this one song started coming together, it's pretty brutal.
"I've always wanted to do really, really heavy music and after hearing this, both Aaron and myself thought we needed some crazy, sick singer on it. We just sat around tossing names out for a bit, nothing really was sticking and then Aaron says, 'I got it...Ihsahn' and it was one of those moments where you knew that was the answer all along, it just hadn't been unlocked in your mind yet.
"Anyway, a few short emails back and forth and we had his vocal track in. It came out amazing. I can't wait for you to hear it.
"Ihsahn, thanks again, it's an honor to have you on my record."
Other musicians who have recorded guest appearances on Loomis' new solo album include fellow axemen Marty Friedman (ex-MEGADETH), Tony Macalpine and Chris Poland (ex-MEGADETH).
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