Dollar Loan Center CEO Chuck Brennan pulled out all the stops at his annual company holiday party recently. Bringing in his famous friends from around the country, the business owner and philanthropist helped raise nearly $300,000 for charity while giving 500 employees and guests a night to remember including $250,000 in cash and prizes.
"If there is a 'best boss in America' award, Chuck Brennan deserves it," said Shon McKee, senior manager for Dollar Loan Center. "We got to experience an evening we will never forget and truly live like rock stars for the night."
Brennan, a long-time rock music lover and former music industry executive, opened the evening with THE DOORS' Robby Krieger playing "L.A. Woman", followed by "Roadhouse Blues" with actor Val Kilmer, who famously portrayed Jim Morrison in the 1991 movie about the iconic band.
Brennan then introduced comedian-musician Gary Mule Deer, who entertained the audience before they were treated to a musical set that included rock legend Alice Cooper, Jack Blades of NIGHT RANGER and Mick Fleetwood of FLEETWOOD MAC. The trio was accompanied by rock music legends Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer of the band KISS while Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley cheered in the audience. Brennan is long-time friends with the band and can always count on KISS when it comes to help raising money for great charities.
"It was an incredible, star-studded evening and I'm thrilled that everyone had such a good time," said Brennan, "To be able to raise nearly $300,000 in a matter of minutes is very humbling."
Over $200,000 of the donations are going directly to Alice Cooper's Solid Rock Foundation. The Phoenix based, non-profit organization provides programs and resources for at-risk teens. "Chuck and his wife Mary are our biggest contributors and this event is absolutely amazing," said Cooper, "They need to televise this event each year so everyone can witness it!"
During the evening, Brennan also announced a $20,000 donation to St. Jude's Children's Hospital in the name of Robby Krieger as well as a $10,000 donation to Rupert's Kids, the nonprofit organization founded by SURVIVOR's Rupert Boneham who was also a guest at the event.
Throughout the evening, famed "Speed Painter" Rock Demarco showcased his talents with artwork that was created live at the event and auctioned off for more than $100,000.
"And, of course, Dollar Loan Center employees got their own surprises during the evening," said Brennan. "Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Tommy Thayer, and Eric Singer helped me give away four brand new KISS Mini Coopers to our staff" said Brennan. "Everyone walks away happy at our annual celebration. The prizes ranged from $100 in cash to a new car!"
Dollar Loan Center is a premier provider of payday loan alternatives in 50 locations throughout Nevada, South Dakota and Utah. Brennan, the company and its employees gave over half a million dollars last year to charitable organizations across the country.
Dollar Loan Center is the largest provider of short term credit services in South Dakota and Nevada. In 2007, Entrepreneur magazine listed the company among its "Hot 500" fastest-growing businesses and entrepreneurs.
"If there is a 'best boss in America' award, Chuck Brennan deserves it," said Shon McKee, senior manager for Dollar Loan Center. "We got to experience an evening we will never forget and truly live like rock stars for the night."
Brennan, a long-time rock music lover and former music industry executive, opened the evening with THE DOORS' Robby Krieger playing "L.A. Woman", followed by "Roadhouse Blues" with actor Val Kilmer, who famously portrayed Jim Morrison in the 1991 movie about the iconic band.
Brennan then introduced comedian-musician Gary Mule Deer, who entertained the audience before they were treated to a musical set that included rock legend Alice Cooper, Jack Blades of NIGHT RANGER and Mick Fleetwood of FLEETWOOD MAC. The trio was accompanied by rock music legends Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer of the band KISS while Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley cheered in the audience. Brennan is long-time friends with the band and can always count on KISS when it comes to help raising money for great charities.
"It was an incredible, star-studded evening and I'm thrilled that everyone had such a good time," said Brennan, "To be able to raise nearly $300,000 in a matter of minutes is very humbling."
Over $200,000 of the donations are going directly to Alice Cooper's Solid Rock Foundation. The Phoenix based, non-profit organization provides programs and resources for at-risk teens. "Chuck and his wife Mary are our biggest contributors and this event is absolutely amazing," said Cooper, "They need to televise this event each year so everyone can witness it!"
During the evening, Brennan also announced a $20,000 donation to St. Jude's Children's Hospital in the name of Robby Krieger as well as a $10,000 donation to Rupert's Kids, the nonprofit organization founded by SURVIVOR's Rupert Boneham who was also a guest at the event.
Throughout the evening, famed "Speed Painter" Rock Demarco showcased his talents with artwork that was created live at the event and auctioned off for more than $100,000.
"And, of course, Dollar Loan Center employees got their own surprises during the evening," said Brennan. "Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Tommy Thayer, and Eric Singer helped me give away four brand new KISS Mini Coopers to our staff" said Brennan. "Everyone walks away happy at our annual celebration. The prizes ranged from $100 in cash to a new car!"
Dollar Loan Center is a premier provider of payday loan alternatives in 50 locations throughout Nevada, South Dakota and Utah. Brennan, the company and its employees gave over half a million dollars last year to charitable organizations across the country.
Dollar Loan Center is the largest provider of short term credit services in South Dakota and Nevada. In 2007, Entrepreneur magazine listed the company among its "Hot 500" fastest-growing businesses and entrepreneurs.
MÖTLEY CRÜE has entered drummer Tommy Lee's studio called The Atrium in Calabasas, California to begin recording a new song that will be released to coincide with the band's upcoming summer tour.
Commented MÖTLEY CRÜE bassist Nikki Sixx: "[The new music is] sounding snarky, nasty and just fucking cool."
A photo from the studio sessions can be seen below.
MÖTLEY CRÜE's latest studio album, "Saints of Los Angeles", sold 99,000 copies in the United States during its first week of release. The CD was CRÜE's first studio album since 2000's "New Tattoo", which has sold over 200,000 copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan. The band's previous studio effort with all of its original members was 1997's "Generation Swine", which debuted and peaked at No. 4 on The Billboard 200, and has sold more than 300,000 units.
"Saints of Los Angeles" was loosely based on the band's memoir, "The Dirt", which was published in 2001.
MÖTLEY CRÜE's latest "greatest-hits" collection, suitably titled "Greatest Hits", was released on November 17, 2009 via Eleven Seven Music/Mötley Records.
CRÜE performed its classic 1989 album, "Dr. Feelgood", in its entirety on Crüe Fest 2, the sophomore outing of the band's summer festival tour, to celebrate the record's 20th anniversary.
Eleven Seven Music/Mötley Records re-released "Dr. Feelgood" on September 21, 2009.
Commented MÖTLEY CRÜE bassist Nikki Sixx: "[The new music is] sounding snarky, nasty and just fucking cool."
A photo from the studio sessions can be seen below.
MÖTLEY CRÜE's latest studio album, "Saints of Los Angeles", sold 99,000 copies in the United States during its first week of release. The CD was CRÜE's first studio album since 2000's "New Tattoo", which has sold over 200,000 copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan. The band's previous studio effort with all of its original members was 1997's "Generation Swine", which debuted and peaked at No. 4 on The Billboard 200, and has sold more than 300,000 units.
"Saints of Los Angeles" was loosely based on the band's memoir, "The Dirt", which was published in 2001.
MÖTLEY CRÜE's latest "greatest-hits" collection, suitably titled "Greatest Hits", was released on November 17, 2009 via Eleven Seven Music/Mötley Records.
CRÜE performed its classic 1989 album, "Dr. Feelgood", in its entirety on Crüe Fest 2, the sophomore outing of the band's summer festival tour, to celebrate the record's 20th anniversary.
Eleven Seven Music/Mötley Records re-released "Dr. Feelgood" on September 21, 2009.
MOTÖRHEAD founder, bassist and principal songwriter Ian "Lemmy" Kilmister has confirmed to Kevin and Ian from the "Metal Shop" show, which airs on the 99.9 KISW radio station in Seattle, Washington, that MOTÖRHEAD will take part in this summer's Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival.
The Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival will make a 26-date trek across the U.S. beginning on June 30 at the San Manuel Amphitheater in San Bernardino, California. The headlining slot on the main stage will be occupied by Iowa legends SLIPKNOT. Next up will be legendary thrash metal kings SLAYER and MOTÖRHEAD will be playing in the third slot. The main stage will also spotlight a ferocious mix of today's best artists in a rotation, including THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, AS I LAY DYING and ASKING ALEXANDRIA.
In 2012 the tour has upgraded the production on the festival stage and this year the Jägermeister Stage will feature a special headline set by metal masters ANTHRAX supported by a rotation of THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, AS I LAY DYING and ASKING ALEXANDRIA, along with WHITECHAPEL, HIGH ON FIRE and the Jägermeister opener. Please note that bands may vary per market.
Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival lineup:
SLIPKNOT
SLAYER
MOTÖRHEAD
ANTHRAX
AS I LAY DYING
THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA
ASKING ALEXANDRIA
WHITECHAPEL
HIGH ON FIRE
For more information, visit www.rockstarmayhemfest.com.
The Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival will make a 26-date trek across the U.S. beginning on June 30 at the San Manuel Amphitheater in San Bernardino, California. The headlining slot on the main stage will be occupied by Iowa legends SLIPKNOT. Next up will be legendary thrash metal kings SLAYER and MOTÖRHEAD will be playing in the third slot. The main stage will also spotlight a ferocious mix of today's best artists in a rotation, including THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, AS I LAY DYING and ASKING ALEXANDRIA.
In 2012 the tour has upgraded the production on the festival stage and this year the Jägermeister Stage will feature a special headline set by metal masters ANTHRAX supported by a rotation of THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, AS I LAY DYING and ASKING ALEXANDRIA, along with WHITECHAPEL, HIGH ON FIRE and the Jägermeister opener. Please note that bands may vary per market.
Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival lineup:
SLIPKNOT
SLAYER
MOTÖRHEAD
ANTHRAX
AS I LAY DYING
THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA
ASKING ALEXANDRIA
WHITECHAPEL
HIGH ON FIRE
For more information, visit www.rockstarmayhemfest.com.
February 25 marked the 20-year anniversary for PANTERA's "Vulgar Display Of Power", a landmark album widely acknowledged as one of metal's most enduring and influential masterworks. Recorded by singer Philip Anselmo, guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott, bassist Rex Brown and drummer Vinnie Paul Abbott, the album has been certified double platinum by the RIAA and features several of the group's most iconic songs including "Walk", "Mouth For War", "This Love" and "Fucking Hostile".
To celebrate, Rhino channels the album's relentless blitzkrieg of musical aggression onto a two-disc Deluxe Edition. The CD includes the original album remastered and "Piss", a recently discovered unreleased track from the recording sessions. The DVD contains an unreleased live performance filmed in Italy in September of 1992 plus the three official music videos from the album.
Due out May 15, 2012 from Rhino, the CD/DVD set will be available at retail outlets, including Pantera.com and Rhino.com, for a suggested list price of $19.98. A version of the release will also be available digitally.
The collection features the debut of "Piss", an incendiary blast of vintage PANTERA from the original recording sessions. It remained lost until Vinnie Paul rediscovered the track while going through the band's vault.
"Some parts of ['Piss'] were taken for other songs, and at the time, it was the only song that did not make the record," Vinnie Paul told Loudwire. "In PANTERA, we never had songs that didn't make the record. If we were going to write 11 songs, then we'd write 11 quality songs. Some bands write 40 songs and then hope they have nine good ones in the bunch. That sucks. Why not concentrate on writing 9 great ones and forget the 31 others? Anyway, this song, at the time, didn't feel right to go on the record, so we put it on the shelf. . . When I started digging through archives, we were happy with it. It is the only undiscovered complete PANTERA track there ever was and it will be part of the package. It should be cool to hear the first new thing from the band since 2000."
Along with the unreleased song, "Vulgar Display Of Power (Deluxe Edition)" also features unreleased video of the quartet performing six songs at the Monsters Of Rock show in Reggio Emilia, Italy on September 12, 1992. The set list draws almost exclusively from "Vulgar" ("This Love", "Rise", "Mouth For War"), but also includes the title track from their previous album, "Cowboys From Hell", and a melding of "Vulgar"'s "Hollow" and "Cowboys"' "Domination", which was a live staple of the band. Video of PANTERA performing live during this era is extremely rare, making the DVD one of the few ways to see them in their prime.
"Vulgar Display Of Power (Deluxe Edition)" track listing:
CD
* "Mouth For War"
* "A New Level"
* "Walk"
* "Fucking Hostile"
* "This Love"
* "Rise"
* "No Good (Attack The Radical)"
* "Live In A Hole"
* "Regular People (Conceit)"
* "By Demons Be Driven"
* "Hollow"
* "Piss" - Previously Unreleased
DVD
* "Mouth For War" - Live In Italy
* "Domination/Hollow" - Live In Italy
* "Rise" - Live In Italy
* "This Love" - Live In Italy
* "Cowboys From Hell" - Live In Italy
* "Mouth For War" - Video
* "This Love" - Video
* "Walk" - Video
"Vulgar Display of Power" (Elektra) was certified double-platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in 2004, signifying shipments of more than 2,000,000 units in the U.S. since its February 25, 1992 release.
PANTERA's career-overview CD, "The Best of Pantera: Far Beyond the Great Southern Cowboys' Vulgar Hits!" (Elektra/Rhino), was certified platinum on January 13, 2006 for shipments in excess of one million copies in the U.S.
Rhino Video in April 2006 released PANTERA's "3 Vulgar Videos From Hell" — a three-DVD set featuring all the band's videos as well as live footage shot during the Monsters of Rock gig in Moscow. Originally released on DVD in 1999, this version features the same content with improved menus and all-new Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound. In fact, it is the first PANTERA release ever in 5.1 Surround Sound. It features: "Cowboys From Hell The Videos", "Vulgar Video", "3 Watch It Go", and "Pantera Live From Monsters of Rock In Moscow".
Dimebag Darrell was co-founder and lead guitarist for PANTERA. When PANTERA broke up in 2003, Dimebag and his brother Vinnie Paul formed DAMAGEPLAN. On Dec. 8, 2004, while performing with DAMAGEPLAN at the Alrosa Villa in Columbus, Ohio, Dimebag was shot and killed onstage by Nathan Gale. He was 38 years old.
To celebrate, Rhino channels the album's relentless blitzkrieg of musical aggression onto a two-disc Deluxe Edition. The CD includes the original album remastered and "Piss", a recently discovered unreleased track from the recording sessions. The DVD contains an unreleased live performance filmed in Italy in September of 1992 plus the three official music videos from the album.
Due out May 15, 2012 from Rhino, the CD/DVD set will be available at retail outlets, including Pantera.com and Rhino.com, for a suggested list price of $19.98. A version of the release will also be available digitally.
The collection features the debut of "Piss", an incendiary blast of vintage PANTERA from the original recording sessions. It remained lost until Vinnie Paul rediscovered the track while going through the band's vault.
"Some parts of ['Piss'] were taken for other songs, and at the time, it was the only song that did not make the record," Vinnie Paul told Loudwire. "In PANTERA, we never had songs that didn't make the record. If we were going to write 11 songs, then we'd write 11 quality songs. Some bands write 40 songs and then hope they have nine good ones in the bunch. That sucks. Why not concentrate on writing 9 great ones and forget the 31 others? Anyway, this song, at the time, didn't feel right to go on the record, so we put it on the shelf. . . When I started digging through archives, we were happy with it. It is the only undiscovered complete PANTERA track there ever was and it will be part of the package. It should be cool to hear the first new thing from the band since 2000."
Along with the unreleased song, "Vulgar Display Of Power (Deluxe Edition)" also features unreleased video of the quartet performing six songs at the Monsters Of Rock show in Reggio Emilia, Italy on September 12, 1992. The set list draws almost exclusively from "Vulgar" ("This Love", "Rise", "Mouth For War"), but also includes the title track from their previous album, "Cowboys From Hell", and a melding of "Vulgar"'s "Hollow" and "Cowboys"' "Domination", which was a live staple of the band. Video of PANTERA performing live during this era is extremely rare, making the DVD one of the few ways to see them in their prime.
"Vulgar Display Of Power (Deluxe Edition)" track listing:
CD
* "Mouth For War"
* "A New Level"
* "Walk"
* "Fucking Hostile"
* "This Love"
* "Rise"
* "No Good (Attack The Radical)"
* "Live In A Hole"
* "Regular People (Conceit)"
* "By Demons Be Driven"
* "Hollow"
* "Piss" - Previously Unreleased
DVD
* "Mouth For War" - Live In Italy
* "Domination/Hollow" - Live In Italy
* "Rise" - Live In Italy
* "This Love" - Live In Italy
* "Cowboys From Hell" - Live In Italy
* "Mouth For War" - Video
* "This Love" - Video
* "Walk" - Video
"Vulgar Display of Power" (Elektra) was certified double-platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in 2004, signifying shipments of more than 2,000,000 units in the U.S. since its February 25, 1992 release.
PANTERA's career-overview CD, "The Best of Pantera: Far Beyond the Great Southern Cowboys' Vulgar Hits!" (Elektra/Rhino), was certified platinum on January 13, 2006 for shipments in excess of one million copies in the U.S.
Rhino Video in April 2006 released PANTERA's "3 Vulgar Videos From Hell" — a three-DVD set featuring all the band's videos as well as live footage shot during the Monsters of Rock gig in Moscow. Originally released on DVD in 1999, this version features the same content with improved menus and all-new Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound. In fact, it is the first PANTERA release ever in 5.1 Surround Sound. It features: "Cowboys From Hell The Videos", "Vulgar Video", "3 Watch It Go", and "Pantera Live From Monsters of Rock In Moscow".
Dimebag Darrell was co-founder and lead guitarist for PANTERA. When PANTERA broke up in 2003, Dimebag and his brother Vinnie Paul formed DAMAGEPLAN. On Dec. 8, 2004, while performing with DAMAGEPLAN at the Alrosa Villa in Columbus, Ohio, Dimebag was shot and killed onstage by Nathan Gale. He was 38 years old.
The handbook to all things heavy metal — "Bringing Metal To The Children" by Zakk Wylde, guitar legend and BLACK LABEL SOCIETY frontman — will finally be released on April 10 via William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. Wylde invites all who dare onto the tour bus for tales of glory, debauchery, and general mayhem. The book is co-authored by Eric Hendrikx.
In "Bringing Metal To The Children", Zakk Wylde, the man who turned heavy metal touring into a journey of fantastical excess, shares what really goes on behind tour bus windows and backstage doors. The twenty-five year music veteran of the OZZY OSBOURNE band and BLACK LABEL SOCIETY details his survival techniques for maintaining a life on the road, managing a band of raging vikings, and somehow making it on stage and blowing the crowd away night after night.
Beginning with Wylde's "true rocker test" (TRT), the reader answers and self-scores ten questions to determine if he is a true rocker and should continue reading, or if he's just a complete tool who needs to hand the book to someone more metal. Wylde continues the journey with his epic stories about life on the road, using his BLACK LABEL SOCIETY (BLS) coaching techniques to instruct the reader on proper touring hygiene, pre-concert preparations, and post-show etiquette. The road stories include wild nights with many of heavy metal's gods, including Rob Zombie, Eddie Van Halen, Dimebag Darrell, ALICE IN CHAINS' Mike Inez, SKID ROW's Snake Sabo, METALLICA's Lars Ulrich, professional wrestlers Chris Jericho, Bubba Dudley and Stone Cold Steve Austin, UFC former light heavyweight champion Forrest Griffin and, of course, the Godfather of heavy metal, Ozzy Osbourne.
"Bringing Metal To The Children" also features Wylde's roadmap for success in the music business, tour planning and exclusive tips for the aspiring "metal musician," as well as the best methods for surviving a mosh pit and plans for how to set up a shooting range on the tour bus.
About the authors:
In the two decades since Ozzy Osbourne hired him away from his job at a New Jersey gas station, Zakk Wylde has established himself as a guitar icon known and revered the world over. Wylde has won nearly every guitar award imaginable, graced countless magazine covers and is a major influence to a new battalion of rock guitarists. Writing and recording with Osbourne led to multi-platinum success, inspiring him to create the now-iconic BLACK LABEL SOCIETY in 1998. In the decade plus since, BLS has turned the notion of what a rock band should be upside down by inspiring legions of fans (known as Berserkers) all over the world to follow the mantra: Strength, Determination, Merciless, Forever (SDMF for short). Wylde and his Berserkers have established a heavy metal institution true to the vision of uncompromising, unfiltered and unrestrained rock 'n' roll. To date, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY has sold more than 3.5 million albums worldwide and continues to be a massive presence on the worldwide touring and merchandising circuits. BLACK LABEL SOCIETY's latest album, "Order Of The Black", was released in August 2010 and debuted at No. 4 on The Billboard 200 album chart.
Writer, photographer, and fellow Berserker Eric Hendrikx is a notable contributor to more than a dozen books, including Forrest Griffin's New York Times bestsellers "Got Fight?" and "Be Ready When the Sh*t Goes Down". A lifelong musician, Hendrikx played guitar in the rock band SNAKE RIVER CONSPIRACY and toured with bands, including QUEENSRŸCHE. He currently lives in Southern California with his son Stone.
In "Bringing Metal To The Children", Zakk Wylde, the man who turned heavy metal touring into a journey of fantastical excess, shares what really goes on behind tour bus windows and backstage doors. The twenty-five year music veteran of the OZZY OSBOURNE band and BLACK LABEL SOCIETY details his survival techniques for maintaining a life on the road, managing a band of raging vikings, and somehow making it on stage and blowing the crowd away night after night.
Beginning with Wylde's "true rocker test" (TRT), the reader answers and self-scores ten questions to determine if he is a true rocker and should continue reading, or if he's just a complete tool who needs to hand the book to someone more metal. Wylde continues the journey with his epic stories about life on the road, using his BLACK LABEL SOCIETY (BLS) coaching techniques to instruct the reader on proper touring hygiene, pre-concert preparations, and post-show etiquette. The road stories include wild nights with many of heavy metal's gods, including Rob Zombie, Eddie Van Halen, Dimebag Darrell, ALICE IN CHAINS' Mike Inez, SKID ROW's Snake Sabo, METALLICA's Lars Ulrich, professional wrestlers Chris Jericho, Bubba Dudley and Stone Cold Steve Austin, UFC former light heavyweight champion Forrest Griffin and, of course, the Godfather of heavy metal, Ozzy Osbourne.
"Bringing Metal To The Children" also features Wylde's roadmap for success in the music business, tour planning and exclusive tips for the aspiring "metal musician," as well as the best methods for surviving a mosh pit and plans for how to set up a shooting range on the tour bus.
About the authors:
In the two decades since Ozzy Osbourne hired him away from his job at a New Jersey gas station, Zakk Wylde has established himself as a guitar icon known and revered the world over. Wylde has won nearly every guitar award imaginable, graced countless magazine covers and is a major influence to a new battalion of rock guitarists. Writing and recording with Osbourne led to multi-platinum success, inspiring him to create the now-iconic BLACK LABEL SOCIETY in 1998. In the decade plus since, BLS has turned the notion of what a rock band should be upside down by inspiring legions of fans (known as Berserkers) all over the world to follow the mantra: Strength, Determination, Merciless, Forever (SDMF for short). Wylde and his Berserkers have established a heavy metal institution true to the vision of uncompromising, unfiltered and unrestrained rock 'n' roll. To date, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY has sold more than 3.5 million albums worldwide and continues to be a massive presence on the worldwide touring and merchandising circuits. BLACK LABEL SOCIETY's latest album, "Order Of The Black", was released in August 2010 and debuted at No. 4 on The Billboard 200 album chart.
Writer, photographer, and fellow Berserker Eric Hendrikx is a notable contributor to more than a dozen books, including Forrest Griffin's New York Times bestsellers "Got Fight?" and "Be Ready When the Sh*t Goes Down". A lifelong musician, Hendrikx played guitar in the rock band SNAKE RIVER CONSPIRACY and toured with bands, including QUEENSRŸCHE. He currently lives in Southern California with his son Stone.
GREAT WHITE — Mark Kendall (lead guitar), Scott Snyder (bass), Audie Desbrow (drums), Michael Lardie (guitar, keyboards) and Terry Ilous (lead vocals) — will play a special 30th-anniversary show at the Key Club in Hollywood, California on March 22. The band states, "We are going to give away quite a bit of new music gear to some lucky fans that night, along with some other very special surprises. Be sure to get your tickets before they're all gone!"
Kendall, Snyder, Desbrow, Lardie and Ilous issued a statement in December in which they claimed that their estranged singer Jack Russell's "frail body" and "drug abuse" have prohibited him from taking part in the band's performances for the past year. They additionally revealed that Jack had undergone "five major surgeries" after his drug abuse got so bad that "his body began to shut down and ultimately resulted in colostomy surgery from a perforated bowel." In the statement, GREAT WHITE also insisted that Russell "does not have the right to start his own GREAT WHITE or use the name without our names in the lineup."
In an interview with Metal Sludge, Russell stated about his estranged bandmates, "I don't care what they say. The proof is in the pudding. Everyone is going to see that Jack is back, that it's all rumors. I mean, do people really give a shit if I'm sober or not? They can come, they'll see I look great, I sound great. I want everyone to come out and see. This January 14 thing is just a jam, and only four-fifths of the band is going to be there because [guitarist] Matt Johnson is going to be in Texas, but starting in February, I'm doing a a tour."
When asked about the rumors of his poor health, Jack said, "I am fine. I just bought a 45-foot boat, and I'm living on it in Redondo Beach, my old stomping ground when GREAT WHITE was its most successful. It's nice to see my favorite sushi restaurant and favorite Italian restaurant are still around. I go fishing three times a week, and I'm in great shape. All these rumors from the other camp about me being not healthy and everyone being afraid I am going to die, it's all B.S. Those guys haven't talked to me in months. They haven't talked to me, so come on, give me a break. Who even cares? I can still sing great. End of story."
Regarding the fact that the GREAT WHITE guys and their manager have a totally different opinion on whether Jack is fit to keep going, the singer said, "They're just trying to make me look bad. They feel scared and threatened, and they should be. They don't own the name. This is my band. Everyone knows this is my band. I started in 1978 and changed the name in 1982. The others, they came in because I was the one who invited them. It was cool for a while before all this crap started. They don't own the name, they don't own the logo. [GREAT WHITE's manager] Obi Steinman sues everyone in the world, but I'm lucid, I'm clear, and I'm sober. Just because I had a rough year and a half does not mean that I gave up on my band. My name has always been synonymous with GREAT WHITE. I came up with the name, and I am entitled to use it. The other GREAT WHITE, with Terry Illous singing my songs and my lyrics, now he's sticking his name into this, covering my tunes. Write your own stuff, dude."
Kendall, Snyder, Desbrow, Lardie and Ilous issued a statement in December in which they claimed that their estranged singer Jack Russell's "frail body" and "drug abuse" have prohibited him from taking part in the band's performances for the past year. They additionally revealed that Jack had undergone "five major surgeries" after his drug abuse got so bad that "his body began to shut down and ultimately resulted in colostomy surgery from a perforated bowel." In the statement, GREAT WHITE also insisted that Russell "does not have the right to start his own GREAT WHITE or use the name without our names in the lineup."
In an interview with Metal Sludge, Russell stated about his estranged bandmates, "I don't care what they say. The proof is in the pudding. Everyone is going to see that Jack is back, that it's all rumors. I mean, do people really give a shit if I'm sober or not? They can come, they'll see I look great, I sound great. I want everyone to come out and see. This January 14 thing is just a jam, and only four-fifths of the band is going to be there because [guitarist] Matt Johnson is going to be in Texas, but starting in February, I'm doing a a tour."
When asked about the rumors of his poor health, Jack said, "I am fine. I just bought a 45-foot boat, and I'm living on it in Redondo Beach, my old stomping ground when GREAT WHITE was its most successful. It's nice to see my favorite sushi restaurant and favorite Italian restaurant are still around. I go fishing three times a week, and I'm in great shape. All these rumors from the other camp about me being not healthy and everyone being afraid I am going to die, it's all B.S. Those guys haven't talked to me in months. They haven't talked to me, so come on, give me a break. Who even cares? I can still sing great. End of story."
Regarding the fact that the GREAT WHITE guys and their manager have a totally different opinion on whether Jack is fit to keep going, the singer said, "They're just trying to make me look bad. They feel scared and threatened, and they should be. They don't own the name. This is my band. Everyone knows this is my band. I started in 1978 and changed the name in 1982. The others, they came in because I was the one who invited them. It was cool for a while before all this crap started. They don't own the name, they don't own the logo. [GREAT WHITE's manager] Obi Steinman sues everyone in the world, but I'm lucid, I'm clear, and I'm sober. Just because I had a rough year and a half does not mean that I gave up on my band. My name has always been synonymous with GREAT WHITE. I came up with the name, and I am entitled to use it. The other GREAT WHITE, with Terry Illous singing my songs and my lyrics, now he's sticking his name into this, covering my tunes. Write your own stuff, dude."
Former SKID ROW singer Sebastian Bach filmed a TV pilot on Wednesday for "Beverly Hills Rock Royalty", a proposed show based on Royal Order, one of the most extensive jewelry lines on the market today designed by former model and rock singer Cheryl Rixon Davis. Bach — who shares a Los Angeles residence with Cheryl and her husband, club owner Art Davis — states, "We have such a cool scene at the house and Royal Order jewelry store! Cheryl outfits the stars like KISS, MÖTLEY CRÜE, Will.I.Am, DEF LEPPARD, GUNS N' ROSES and me! Only the best! Look out for 'Beverly Hills Rock Royalty' on your TV screen SOON!!"
In a recent interview with Stay Thirsty Media, Bach explained how he ended up moving into the house owned by Cheryl and her husband. "I was at the Rainbow [Bar & Grill in West Hollywood], I was hanging out with them and I said I was looking for a place here and they said, 'You can stay in the house.' I had no idea that she lives in a palace! If you could see where I'm at right now, it's just crazy, it's unbelievable."
In a recent interview with Stay Thirsty Media, Bach explained how he ended up moving into the house owned by Cheryl and her husband. "I was at the Rainbow [Bar & Grill in West Hollywood], I was hanging out with them and I said I was looking for a place here and they said, 'You can stay in the house.' I had no idea that she lives in a palace! If you could see where I'm at right now, it's just crazy, it's unbelievable."
L.A. GUNS — featuring Phil Lewis, Steve Riley, Stacey Blades and Scotty Griffin — recently entered the studio with legendary producer, and old friend, Andy Johns (LED ZEPPELIN, THE ROLLING STONES, CINDERELLA, VAN HALEN, as well as the last three L.A. GUNS albums) to begin recording its new album for a late 2012 release via Cleopatra Records. According to a posting on the band's Facebook page, "The album's all recorded and we start mixing on Monday. It sounds amazing 15 new original songs and one in Spanish. You're gonna love it."
A CD and vinyl release, as well as bonus tracks available only on iTunes, is set for early summer. A nine-month world tour following the release is also currently being planned.
Singer Phil Lewis was said to be thrilled to get back in the studio and finally get a chance to record once again with Andy. "We've been waiting a long time to get back in and record," he said. "Our last album, 'Tales From The Strip', was incredibly well-received and we're looking forward to putting out something even better! With today's uncertain musical landscape, it's great to have a label like Cleopatra Records behind us. We've been friends with Brian Perera (Cleopatra Records owner and founder) for a long time, and are really looking forward to working together on this and many more projects with him in the future."
Phil Lewis' L.A. GUNS is not to be confused with the Tracii Guns-led version of the group, which is also continuing to record and perform under the L.A. GUNS moniker.
A CD and vinyl release, as well as bonus tracks available only on iTunes, is set for early summer. A nine-month world tour following the release is also currently being planned.
Singer Phil Lewis was said to be thrilled to get back in the studio and finally get a chance to record once again with Andy. "We've been waiting a long time to get back in and record," he said. "Our last album, 'Tales From The Strip', was incredibly well-received and we're looking forward to putting out something even better! With today's uncertain musical landscape, it's great to have a label like Cleopatra Records behind us. We've been friends with Brian Perera (Cleopatra Records owner and founder) for a long time, and are really looking forward to working together on this and many more projects with him in the future."
Phil Lewis' L.A. GUNS is not to be confused with the Tracii Guns-led version of the group, which is also continuing to record and perform under the L.A. GUNS moniker.
An all-star jam led by ex-MONTROSE and current QUIET RIOT touring vocalist Keith St. John will perform a special tribute to LED ZEPPELIN and more as the support act for MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP this Saturday, February 25 at the House Of Blues in West Hollywood, California. Joining St. John for the "Rock Box Jam" will be the following musicians, among others:
* Frankie Banali (QUIET RIOT)
* Sean McNabb (DOKKEN)
* Lenny Mann (LED ZEPPLICA)
* Chuck Wright (HOUSE OF LORDS, QUIET RIOT, GIUFFRIA)
* James Kottak (SCORPIONS)
* Frankie Banali (QUIET RIOT)
* Sean McNabb (DOKKEN)
* Lenny Mann (LED ZEPPLICA)
* Chuck Wright (HOUSE OF LORDS, QUIET RIOT, GIUFFRIA)
* James Kottak (SCORPIONS)
Earlier in the month, BLACK SABBATH drummer Bill Ward announced that he will not be able to participate in the recording of the reunited group's new album or perform with them on tour unless he is presented with what he described as a "fair agreement" and a "signable contract" that financially reflects his contributions to SABBATH's history and his standing as a founding member of the band.
BLACK SABBATH members Tony Iommi, Ozzy Osbourne and Geeer Butler vowed to continue recording their new album without Ward, saying in a statement that they "were saddened to hear via Facebook that Bill declined publicly to participate in our current BLACK SABBATH plans... We have no choice but to continue recording without him although our door is always open... We are still in the U.K. with Tony. Writing and recording the new album and on a roll."
When asked for his opinion on the SABBATH/Ward dispute, MACHINE HEAD drummer Dave McClain told Artisan News (see video below), "The Bill Ward thing, it sounds really bad to me that he would be offered this, 'Either sign it or…' Especially a band like BLACK SABBATH where money is just pouring in for this reunion, you know what I mean?! Bill Ward, he may not be Ozzy or Tony Iommi or Geezer Butler, when you think of SABBATH, but to a lot of people, Bill Ward, I mean, he's SABBATH. I read his whole statement, and I think he's in it for the right reasons, and unfortunately, he's dealing with some people that don't look at him as a fair part of the band or whatever."
BLACK SABBATH has essentially canceled all its announced tour dates save one due to guitarist Tony Iommi's ongoing treatment for lymphoma. According to a press release, Iommi will still join fellow original SABBATH members Ozzy Osbourne on vocals and Geezer Butler on bass at the U.K.'s Download Festival on June 10. But the rest of BLACK SABBATH's previously scheduled European summer shows will be replaced by "Ozzy And Friends", at which the singer will be joined by SABBATH bassist Geezer Butler, former Ozzy guitarist Zakk Wylde and other special guests, including Slash on selected dates.
Butler will join Ozzy during the shows for a set of SABBATH songs in honor of Iommi. The 64-year-old guitarist continues to make "excellent progress" in his battle with cancer, which was diagnosed earlier this year.
On February 17, Ward posted an update in which he said he "remains hopeful" for a positive outcome to the situation and is "prepared to go to the U.K. and record, and later tour with the band." It is not clear whether Ward issued his statement before the news broke about SABBATH's plans being canceled.
BLACK SABBATH members Tony Iommi, Ozzy Osbourne and Geeer Butler vowed to continue recording their new album without Ward, saying in a statement that they "were saddened to hear via Facebook that Bill declined publicly to participate in our current BLACK SABBATH plans... We have no choice but to continue recording without him although our door is always open... We are still in the U.K. with Tony. Writing and recording the new album and on a roll."
When asked for his opinion on the SABBATH/Ward dispute, MACHINE HEAD drummer Dave McClain told Artisan News (see video below), "The Bill Ward thing, it sounds really bad to me that he would be offered this, 'Either sign it or…' Especially a band like BLACK SABBATH where money is just pouring in for this reunion, you know what I mean?! Bill Ward, he may not be Ozzy or Tony Iommi or Geezer Butler, when you think of SABBATH, but to a lot of people, Bill Ward, I mean, he's SABBATH. I read his whole statement, and I think he's in it for the right reasons, and unfortunately, he's dealing with some people that don't look at him as a fair part of the band or whatever."
BLACK SABBATH has essentially canceled all its announced tour dates save one due to guitarist Tony Iommi's ongoing treatment for lymphoma. According to a press release, Iommi will still join fellow original SABBATH members Ozzy Osbourne on vocals and Geezer Butler on bass at the U.K.'s Download Festival on June 10. But the rest of BLACK SABBATH's previously scheduled European summer shows will be replaced by "Ozzy And Friends", at which the singer will be joined by SABBATH bassist Geezer Butler, former Ozzy guitarist Zakk Wylde and other special guests, including Slash on selected dates.
Butler will join Ozzy during the shows for a set of SABBATH songs in honor of Iommi. The 64-year-old guitarist continues to make "excellent progress" in his battle with cancer, which was diagnosed earlier this year.
On February 17, Ward posted an update in which he said he "remains hopeful" for a positive outcome to the situation and is "prepared to go to the U.K. and record, and later tour with the band." It is not clear whether Ward issued his statement before the news broke about SABBATH's plans being canceled.
Veteran California metallers HIRAX will enter Skull Seven Studio in North Hollywood, California in early June with producer Bill Metoyer (SLAYER, W.A.S.P. , ARMORED SAINT, DARK ANGEL, SACRED REICH, CRYPTIC SLAUGHTER, D.R.I.) to begin recording their fourth full-length album for a late 2012 release via Black Devil Records.
"El Rostro De La Muerte", the latest video from HIRAX, can be seen below. The song comes off the band's "El Rostro De La Muerte" album, which was released in October 2010. It was the veteran band's first full-length since 2004's "The New Age Of Terror".
"El Rostro De La Muerte" is a dual-studio effort, combining the skills of two HIRAX producers which the band has worked with on their past three releases. The ten new tracks were recorded and engineered by John Haddad at Trench Studio in Corona, California, and mixed by Andy Haller. The new CD also contains one bonus track from the "Chaos And Brutality" EP, which was previously unavailable in the U.S.
"El Rostro De La Muerte" was made available on Black Devil Records and Deep Six Records and is distributed through CMDistro.com. It was pressed in CD and vinyl formats as well as a limited-edition picture disc.
On June 29, 2010 (one day earlier internationally), Season of Mist released a new compilation album from HIRAX, "Noise Chaos War". Consisting of three thrashing EPs — remastered, remixed and available on CD for the first time — this release also includes a video for "Bombs of Death", filmed live in Japan in 2009.
Originally signed to Metal Blade in 1985, HIRAX has been at the forefront of the thrash movement for over 25 years. Their music has stood the test of time and their legions of fans continue to grow.
"El Rostro De La Muerte", the latest video from HIRAX, can be seen below. The song comes off the band's "El Rostro De La Muerte" album, which was released in October 2010. It was the veteran band's first full-length since 2004's "The New Age Of Terror".
"El Rostro De La Muerte" is a dual-studio effort, combining the skills of two HIRAX producers which the band has worked with on their past three releases. The ten new tracks were recorded and engineered by John Haddad at Trench Studio in Corona, California, and mixed by Andy Haller. The new CD also contains one bonus track from the "Chaos And Brutality" EP, which was previously unavailable in the U.S.
"El Rostro De La Muerte" was made available on Black Devil Records and Deep Six Records and is distributed through CMDistro.com. It was pressed in CD and vinyl formats as well as a limited-edition picture disc.
On June 29, 2010 (one day earlier internationally), Season of Mist released a new compilation album from HIRAX, "Noise Chaos War". Consisting of three thrashing EPs — remastered, remixed and available on CD for the first time — this release also includes a video for "Bombs of Death", filmed live in Japan in 2009.
Originally signed to Metal Blade in 1985, HIRAX has been at the forefront of the thrash movement for over 25 years. Their music has stood the test of time and their legions of fans continue to grow.
To commemorate Record Store Day, DISTURBED will be release a definitive vinyl box-set edition, "The Collection", on April 21. The five-album, six-disc offering includes the band's entire full-length catalog and is pressed on 140-gram vinyl. You can now pre-order the box set at this location.
About Record Store Day: Record Store Day is managed by the Music Monitor Network and is organized in partnership with the Alliance Of Independent Media Stores (AIMS), the Coalition Of Independent Music Stores (CIMS) and celebrates the culture of independent record stores by playing host to in-store events/performances, signings and special product releases on a global scale.
Record Store Day takes place annually on the third Saturday of April.
DISTURBED went on an open-ended hiatus last fall, following the completion of the touring cycle for its 2010 album "Asylum".
DISTURBED has not indicated when it plans to return, although all four members say it's not likely that the group will stay away for good.
DISTURBED released its first-ever collection of B-sides and rarities, titled "The Lost Children", last November. The set includes a previously unreleased song called "Mine" as well as a benefit track for the West Memphis Three titled "3", plus tunes that previously appeared only on soundtracks or as bonus cuts on international editions of the group's albums.
About Record Store Day: Record Store Day is managed by the Music Monitor Network and is organized in partnership with the Alliance Of Independent Media Stores (AIMS), the Coalition Of Independent Music Stores (CIMS) and celebrates the culture of independent record stores by playing host to in-store events/performances, signings and special product releases on a global scale.
Record Store Day takes place annually on the third Saturday of April.
DISTURBED went on an open-ended hiatus last fall, following the completion of the touring cycle for its 2010 album "Asylum".
DISTURBED has not indicated when it plans to return, although all four members say it's not likely that the group will stay away for good.
DISTURBED released its first-ever collection of B-sides and rarities, titled "The Lost Children", last November. The set includes a previously unreleased song called "Mine" as well as a benefit track for the West Memphis Three titled "3", plus tunes that previously appeared only on soundtracks or as bonus cuts on international editions of the group's albums.
Italian singer Mariangela "Mary" Demurtas of Norway's TRISTANIA will make a guest appearance on "Caligvla", the sophomore album from KATAKLYSM frontman Maurizio Iacono's Ancient Roman-themed arsenal EX DEO. According to Iacono, "every invited guest on this album will have Roman or Greek descent."
Iacono recently completed laying down vocals for "Caligvla". He says, "It wasn't without any hard work, blood and sweat and also close to a fainting spell after one of the hardest-longest screams I ever made. Ten days of vocal tracking, some of my best work in my career, the gods will be pleased … Some solos are left, some guest appearances to track and we start mixing this beast, should be all done by end of March.. eight months in the making people, soon we will give the metal world a well-deserved punishment!!"
EX DEO recently canceled its participation in the "Paganfest America Part III" tour with TURISAS, ALESTORM, ARKONA and HUNTRESS.
Commented Iacono: "We were all excited to play this festival and premier some new material, but unfortunately our new album, 'Caligvla', has been delayed, and we need to finish it and make it perfect. Add to that, the KATAKLYSM DVD is also on its final production phase... We decided it would be best to concentrate on giving every bit of attention to the album you have been waiting for, and also for the KATAKLYSM documentary to kick major ass. This being said, we will still perform with EX DEO on the Montreal [April 1 at Club Soda] and Toronto [April 2 at The Opera House] shows with Paganfest, as we will be in studio in the area, closing up the album 'Caligvla'. Everything else is cancelled for EX DEO. We will return to support the album in the fall... Word from Rome is that the plans are already in motion for world conquest! We ask our fans to support Paganfest and the great bands playing this year!"
EX DEO's sophomore album, "Caligvla", is being recorded with producer Jean-François Dagenais (KATAKLYSM, MALEVOLENT CREATION, MISERY INDEX, DESPISED ICON). The CD is tentatively due late summer via Austria's Napalm Records.
The artwork and layout for "Caligvla" will be handled by classic artist Seth (SEPTICFLESH). Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "I, Caligula", "Burned to Serve the Nocturnal Light", "In War & Conquest/Roma Caput Mundi" and "Teutoburg (The Ambush of Varus) - Part 1".
EX DEO last year completed a North American tour with NILE, PSYCROPTIC and KEEP OF KALESSIN.
"Romulus", the debut album from EX DEO, landed at position No. 90 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.
Iacono recently completed laying down vocals for "Caligvla". He says, "It wasn't without any hard work, blood and sweat and also close to a fainting spell after one of the hardest-longest screams I ever made. Ten days of vocal tracking, some of my best work in my career, the gods will be pleased … Some solos are left, some guest appearances to track and we start mixing this beast, should be all done by end of March.. eight months in the making people, soon we will give the metal world a well-deserved punishment!!"
EX DEO recently canceled its participation in the "Paganfest America Part III" tour with TURISAS, ALESTORM, ARKONA and HUNTRESS.
Commented Iacono: "We were all excited to play this festival and premier some new material, but unfortunately our new album, 'Caligvla', has been delayed, and we need to finish it and make it perfect. Add to that, the KATAKLYSM DVD is also on its final production phase... We decided it would be best to concentrate on giving every bit of attention to the album you have been waiting for, and also for the KATAKLYSM documentary to kick major ass. This being said, we will still perform with EX DEO on the Montreal [April 1 at Club Soda] and Toronto [April 2 at The Opera House] shows with Paganfest, as we will be in studio in the area, closing up the album 'Caligvla'. Everything else is cancelled for EX DEO. We will return to support the album in the fall... Word from Rome is that the plans are already in motion for world conquest! We ask our fans to support Paganfest and the great bands playing this year!"
EX DEO's sophomore album, "Caligvla", is being recorded with producer Jean-François Dagenais (KATAKLYSM, MALEVOLENT CREATION, MISERY INDEX, DESPISED ICON). The CD is tentatively due late summer via Austria's Napalm Records.
The artwork and layout for "Caligvla" will be handled by classic artist Seth (SEPTICFLESH). Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "I, Caligula", "Burned to Serve the Nocturnal Light", "In War & Conquest/Roma Caput Mundi" and "Teutoburg (The Ambush of Varus) - Part 1".
EX DEO last year completed a North American tour with NILE, PSYCROPTIC and KEEP OF KALESSIN.
"Romulus", the debut album from EX DEO, landed at position No. 90 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.
Brunswick, New Jersey's melodic, thrash-metal warriors GOD FORBID are scheduled to film a music video for an as-yet-unspecified song from their new album "Equilibrium" tonight (Friday, February 24) at Dingbatz in Clifton, New Jersey with director Tommy Jones (ALL SHALL PERISH, KATAKLYSM).
"Equilibrium" will be released on March 27 via Victory Records. The bulk of the CD was recorded by Mark Lewis (THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, WHITECHAPEL, DEVILDRIVER, TRIVIUM), with Jason Suecof (TRIVIUM, ALL THAT REMAINS, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, CHIMAIRA, DEVILDRIVER) stepping in during the the vocal-tracking stage. The effort was mixed by acclaimed Swedish producer Jens Bogren, who has previously worked with such acts as KATATONIA, OPETH, PARADISE LOST and AMON AMARTH.
"With the new album, we focused on writing tight, hooky metal songs," commented guitarist/vocalist Doc Coyle on the creative process for "Equilibrium", "There are some really fast, super heavy, groovy songs – some of the catchiest, most melodic songs we've ever written. We wanted a modern, but organic-sounding album that was tight but still captured the intensity of the band. The album sounds huge!"
Coyle went on to speak about the overall theme of the album, "The title of the album says it all — it's about finding your way when you're lost. The lyrics come from a very personal, very real place. The recurring lyrical theme is about the everyday struggles of life and what it takes to persevere and follow your dreams."
GOD FORBID's solidified line-up, newly managed under World Entertainment's Alexander Ford and Gunter Ford, includes lead vocalist Byron Davis, guitarist/vocalist Doc Coyle, bassist John "Beeker" Outcalt, Corey Pierce on drums and newest member Matt Wicklund on guitar.
The band will support "Equilibrium" with heavy touring.
"Equilibrium" will be released on March 27 via Victory Records. The bulk of the CD was recorded by Mark Lewis (THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, WHITECHAPEL, DEVILDRIVER, TRIVIUM), with Jason Suecof (TRIVIUM, ALL THAT REMAINS, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, CHIMAIRA, DEVILDRIVER) stepping in during the the vocal-tracking stage. The effort was mixed by acclaimed Swedish producer Jens Bogren, who has previously worked with such acts as KATATONIA, OPETH, PARADISE LOST and AMON AMARTH.
"With the new album, we focused on writing tight, hooky metal songs," commented guitarist/vocalist Doc Coyle on the creative process for "Equilibrium", "There are some really fast, super heavy, groovy songs – some of the catchiest, most melodic songs we've ever written. We wanted a modern, but organic-sounding album that was tight but still captured the intensity of the band. The album sounds huge!"
Coyle went on to speak about the overall theme of the album, "The title of the album says it all — it's about finding your way when you're lost. The lyrics come from a very personal, very real place. The recurring lyrical theme is about the everyday struggles of life and what it takes to persevere and follow your dreams."
GOD FORBID's solidified line-up, newly managed under World Entertainment's Alexander Ford and Gunter Ford, includes lead vocalist Byron Davis, guitarist/vocalist Doc Coyle, bassist John "Beeker" Outcalt, Corey Pierce on drums and newest member Matt Wicklund on guitar.
The band will support "Equilibrium" with heavy touring.
Remastered reissues of the first three albums from THEATRE OF TRAGEDY — the Norwegian band which once featured in its ranks current LEAVES' EYES vocalist Liv Kristine — will be made available later in the year. The group's self-titled debut (1995), "Velvet Darkness They Fear" (1996) and "Aegis" (1998) will feature rare bonus material, new liner notes and will be released in digipack and double vinyl LP formats.
THEATRE OF TRAGEDY released the "Last Curtain Call" concert DVD last May via AFM Records. The disc contains 18 tracks spanning the band's entire career with a running time of 94 minutes. In addition, there was a half-hour "on-the-road" movie from the band's last tour, footage from the group's final rehearsal October 1, 2010 (with fans attending) as well as in-depth interviews with all band members shot in January 2011. The concert film features both stereo and 5.1 Surround Sound. Audio was mixed by Alex Møklebust and mastered by Chris Sansom at Propeller Mastering. In addition, there was a live CD included with the bands pick of their live favorites.
THEATRE OF TRAGEDY announced in March 2010 that it was calling it quits, stating, "This has not been an easy decision to make and we have thought about this for a long long time. We finally agreed to this during the production of our latest album, 'Forever Is The World'.
"Over the years all of us have strived to combine the THEATRE with everyday life but in the end it has proven more and more difficult.
"We have come to appreciate our family lives and jobs, which makes it very hard to continue this life of rock 'n' roll on the road."
THEATRE OF TRAGEDY released a a limited-edition tour version of its seventh album, "Forever Is The World", in March 2010 to coincide with the band's European shows. The set included a new EP called "Addenda" and featured 10 tracks of b-sides, rarities, remakes and remixes.
"Forever Is The World" was released in September 2009 via AFM Records. The follow-up to 2006's "Storm" was recorded at Room 13 studios in Oslo with producer Alexander Møklebust, who has previously worked with ZEROMANCER, SEIGMEN, GÅTE, MONOMEN and DELAWARE, among others. The mastering was handled by Bjørn Engelmann at the Cutting Room in Sweden.
"Forever Is The World" was made available in three different versions: a limited digipack with one bonus song, a very limited double vinyl version with two bonus tracks (one exclusive to the vinyl edition!) and a regular jewelcase.
THEATRE OF TRAGEDY released the "Last Curtain Call" concert DVD last May via AFM Records. The disc contains 18 tracks spanning the band's entire career with a running time of 94 minutes. In addition, there was a half-hour "on-the-road" movie from the band's last tour, footage from the group's final rehearsal October 1, 2010 (with fans attending) as well as in-depth interviews with all band members shot in January 2011. The concert film features both stereo and 5.1 Surround Sound. Audio was mixed by Alex Møklebust and mastered by Chris Sansom at Propeller Mastering. In addition, there was a live CD included with the bands pick of their live favorites.
THEATRE OF TRAGEDY announced in March 2010 that it was calling it quits, stating, "This has not been an easy decision to make and we have thought about this for a long long time. We finally agreed to this during the production of our latest album, 'Forever Is The World'.
"Over the years all of us have strived to combine the THEATRE with everyday life but in the end it has proven more and more difficult.
"We have come to appreciate our family lives and jobs, which makes it very hard to continue this life of rock 'n' roll on the road."
THEATRE OF TRAGEDY released a a limited-edition tour version of its seventh album, "Forever Is The World", in March 2010 to coincide with the band's European shows. The set included a new EP called "Addenda" and featured 10 tracks of b-sides, rarities, remakes and remixes.
"Forever Is The World" was released in September 2009 via AFM Records. The follow-up to 2006's "Storm" was recorded at Room 13 studios in Oslo with producer Alexander Møklebust, who has previously worked with ZEROMANCER, SEIGMEN, GÅTE, MONOMEN and DELAWARE, among others. The mastering was handled by Bjørn Engelmann at the Cutting Room in Sweden.
"Forever Is The World" was made available in three different versions: a limited digipack with one bonus song, a very limited double vinyl version with two bonus tracks (one exclusive to the vinyl edition!) and a regular jewelcase.
A MAN aged 70 who tattooed heavy metal music lyrics on an underage Herne Bay schoolgirl told a court he was not a "villain."
Donovan Carfoot tattooed a four-line quote on the 15-year-old girl's back at his tattoo parlour, but said he thought she was older.
By law, a person must be at least 18 to be tattooed.
Former firefighter Carfoot, who has been tattooing for 40 years, denied tattooing a minor but was found guilty and fined £500 by Margate magistrates on Monday.
When cross-examined he said: "You're making me sound like a villain. I'm not a villain."
The court heard how the schoolgirl, who because of her age cannot be named, saved up Christmas money to get the tattoo during last year's February half-term holiday.
She took a train to Don's Tattooing in Hereson Road, Ramsgate, with a 16-year-old friend on Monday, February 21, and paid £20 to have a tattoo of the album title by metalcore band Bring Me The Horizon.
The girl, now 16, told the court: "It was a quote that just appealed to me. It was something I saw on TV."
The court heard Carfoot failed to ask her for identification and allowed her 16-year-old friend to sign a record book to vouch that she was 18.
Philip Bensted, prosecuting for Thanet council, told Carfoot: "You didn't care whether she was 18 or not.
"You just wanted a signature in your book."
The girl's parents called police on March 10 after her school discovered the tattoo.
Carfoot was interviewed by a licensing officer and police. When asked why he had failed to checked the girl's age he replied: "You've caught me on the hop, haven't you?"
Mark Trafford, defending, said the teenager had "hoodwinked" Carfoot into doing the tattoo by dressing older and "lying" about her age.
Magistrates fined Carfoot £500 and ordered him to pay £135 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.
"American Idol" finalist James Durbin will serve as a spokesperson for the Be A STAR Alliance, an anti-bullying initiative, co-founded by The Creative Coalition and WWE. Durbin joins more than 50 national organizations that serve on the Be A STAR Alliance, including GLAAD, Stomp Out Bullying, Scholastic, Inc. and United Federation Of Teachers. Having been a victim of bullying while dealing with Asperger's Syndrome and Tourette's Syndrome, Durbin's refusal to be sidelined by medical hurdles lends an inspiring image to the core message of be a STAR, which stands for "Show Tolerance And Respect." In his role, Durbin will contribute to be a STAR's mission to ensure a positive and equitable social environment for everyone regardless of age, race, religion or sexual orientation through education and awareness.
"I'm honored to align myself with be a STAR in the effort to change the way people treat each other," said Durbin. "Having been a victim of bullying, I'm excited to share my story and encourage people to put an end to bullying."
Durbin began his be a STAR advocacy by visiting Los Coyotes Middle School in La Mirada, California today to address students, teachers and administrators about bullying's severe consequences and effects. Also speaking at today's event were Congresswoman Linda Sanchez, actress Rachael Leigh Cook, WWE superstar The Miz and WWE diva Eve Torres. In addition, Durbin recently filmed a PSA for be a STAR that will air nationally on WWE's weekly programming in the spring.
"I'm honored to align myself with be a STAR in the effort to change the way people treat each other," said Durbin. "Having been a victim of bullying, I'm excited to share my story and encourage people to put an end to bullying."
Durbin began his be a STAR advocacy by visiting Los Coyotes Middle School in La Mirada, California today to address students, teachers and administrators about bullying's severe consequences and effects. Also speaking at today's event were Congresswoman Linda Sanchez, actress Rachael Leigh Cook, WWE superstar The Miz and WWE diva Eve Torres. In addition, Durbin recently filmed a PSA for be a STAR that will air nationally on WWE's weekly programming in the spring.
Drummer Mikal "Mikey" Cox of COAL CHAMBER, the reformed '90s alt-metal band fronted by current DEVILDRIVER singer Dez Fafara, broke two fingers while performing with COAL CHAMBER earlier today (Saturday, February 25) at RNA Showgrounds in Brisbane, Australia during this year's Soundwave Festival.
A photo of Cox's bandaged-up hand can be seen below.
COAL CHAMBER is playing its first reunion dates in late February and early March as part of Soundwave.
When asked by Full Metal Jackie in a recent interview how he feels about the return of COAL CHAMBER, Dez said, "Unbelievable. Full circle. I mean, to get those guys back in my life and clean off hard drugs and want[ing] to do shows, it's incredible. The feeling is incredible and the love had been just incredible as well. I woke up at 4:30 the other morning with my phone ringing off the hook and my Twitter, everything going crazy, it's so good to see. After all these years, we haven't played together in 10 years. . . We've been going over the setlist and it's been nothing but fun right now. I mean, going back and forth about a setlist with these guys just turns into jokes and hours of e-mails of jokes and we forget what we're doing. So you realize that these guys are a big, big part of my life and I don't even know if I'd be here with DEVILDRIVER for Meegs [guitar] and Mikey drums], so it's good to have them back in my life and getting ready to go do COAL CHAMBER shows."
Regarding why neither of the two former COAL CHAMBER bassists — Nadja Peulen or Rayna Foss — is involved in the band's reunion, Dez said, "Rayna was not [asked to be a part of it]. Rayna has been out of the band for a very long time. We did speak to Nadja. She has other things going and it wasn't really in the headspace where we were at as a band. We found Chela; she's Canadian and she's a bad-ass player. She's been playing for nearly 12 years. She plays five-string and it's going to be good to have her on bass. She grew up with COAL CHAMBER. She's only 26-27 years old. She knows the songs, and just hearing her on the phone, the excitement [in her voice], that's really what I wanted brought to the table. Where Meegs and Mikey and I am right now, we're really excited so we needed someone that filled that excitement drawer and she did for sure; she's stoked."
A photo of Cox's bandaged-up hand can be seen below.
COAL CHAMBER is playing its first reunion dates in late February and early March as part of Soundwave.
When asked by Full Metal Jackie in a recent interview how he feels about the return of COAL CHAMBER, Dez said, "Unbelievable. Full circle. I mean, to get those guys back in my life and clean off hard drugs and want[ing] to do shows, it's incredible. The feeling is incredible and the love had been just incredible as well. I woke up at 4:30 the other morning with my phone ringing off the hook and my Twitter, everything going crazy, it's so good to see. After all these years, we haven't played together in 10 years. . . We've been going over the setlist and it's been nothing but fun right now. I mean, going back and forth about a setlist with these guys just turns into jokes and hours of e-mails of jokes and we forget what we're doing. So you realize that these guys are a big, big part of my life and I don't even know if I'd be here with DEVILDRIVER for Meegs [guitar] and Mikey drums], so it's good to have them back in my life and getting ready to go do COAL CHAMBER shows."
Regarding why neither of the two former COAL CHAMBER bassists — Nadja Peulen or Rayna Foss — is involved in the band's reunion, Dez said, "Rayna was not [asked to be a part of it]. Rayna has been out of the band for a very long time. We did speak to Nadja. She has other things going and it wasn't really in the headspace where we were at as a band. We found Chela; she's Canadian and she's a bad-ass player. She's been playing for nearly 12 years. She plays five-string and it's going to be good to have her on bass. She grew up with COAL CHAMBER. She's only 26-27 years old. She knows the songs, and just hearing her on the phone, the excitement [in her voice], that's really what I wanted brought to the table. Where Meegs and Mikey and I am right now, we're really excited so we needed someone that filled that excitement drawer and she did for sure; she's stoked."
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/soulflypremiere/dezbroken.jpg
Liechtenstein-based gothic metallers ELIS have called it quits following the departure of their singer of the past eight months, Simone Christinat (LEGENDA AUREA, FELONY) from Schaffhausen, Switzerland.
ELIS' original frontwoman, Sabine Dünser, suffered a cerebral hemorrhage on July 7, 2006 during rehearsal and passed away the following day in hospital. A replacement vocalist, Sandra Schleret (ex-EYES OF EDEN), was recruited in 2006 and remained with the group until 2011, during which time the band recorded only one full-length album, "Catharsis" (released in November 2009 via Napalm Records).
ELIS released the following statement earlier today (Friday, February 24):
"We have to inform you that ELIS has passed into history.
"Simone told us a couple of days ago, that she will leave ELIS immediately due to too much stress.
"We have decided now to quit the band. Too much things happened during all these years to continue once again. But on the other side, there were a lot of good and lucky moments in this almost ten years of ELIS. Therefore we want to say thank you for your support, your dedication and your friendship through all these years!
"But this will not be the end of our musical careers; some projects are already in the pipeline. You will find more information about these things very soon on [the official ELIS web site]."
ELIS' original frontwoman, Sabine Dünser, suffered a cerebral hemorrhage on July 7, 2006 during rehearsal and passed away the following day in hospital. A replacement vocalist, Sandra Schleret (ex-EYES OF EDEN), was recruited in 2006 and remained with the group until 2011, during which time the band recorded only one full-length album, "Catharsis" (released in November 2009 via Napalm Records).
ELIS released the following statement earlier today (Friday, February 24):
"We have to inform you that ELIS has passed into history.
"Simone told us a couple of days ago, that she will leave ELIS immediately due to too much stress.
"We have decided now to quit the band. Too much things happened during all these years to continue once again. But on the other side, there were a lot of good and lucky moments in this almost ten years of ELIS. Therefore we want to say thank you for your support, your dedication and your friendship through all these years!
"But this will not be the end of our musical careers; some projects are already in the pipeline. You will find more information about these things very soon on [the official ELIS web site]."
Chicago-based extremists NACHTMYSTIUM recently entered the studio to begin recording their new album, "Silencing Machine", for a July 31 release via Century Media Records. A U.S. Midwest mini-tour with KRIEG and MURMUR will kick off on July 25.
Very few bands today embrace their own individualism to ultimately craft something truly unique and genre defying. Enter the NACHTMYSTIUM, who embrace the true spirit of individuality and intolerance forming solely as an outlet to express the dark musical visions and summoning's of those involved.
The band already sailed under the Century Media label banner in the USA since 2008 and released the classic albums "Assassins: Black Meddle Pt. 1" (2008) and "Addicts: Black Meddle Part II" (2010). Now, Century Media finally looks into a worldwide partnership with NACHTMYSTIUM and plans great things to come in 2012!
Originally formed in 1999 by Blake Judd, NACHTMYSTIUM started off as a raw, primitive black metal band with a very derivative Norsk black metal influence. They released a number of records on underground labels before they turned into a new musical direction and 'psychedelic'-era. Over the past years NACHTMYSTIUM created a genre all of its own and will develop this progress for 2012.
Founding member Blake Judd (vocals, guitars) commented on the new deal: "We are very excited and honoured to be working with Century Media, a label who over the years has showcased a ferocious dedication to extreme music. GRAVE, TIAMAT, SAMAEL and countless other bands active in the early '90s were some of the first bands to inspire us endlessly to create our own metal music. We anticipate a great working relationship and hope to embark on a joint ascension to metal superiority together!"
Very few bands today embrace their own individualism to ultimately craft something truly unique and genre defying. Enter the NACHTMYSTIUM, who embrace the true spirit of individuality and intolerance forming solely as an outlet to express the dark musical visions and summoning's of those involved.
The band already sailed under the Century Media label banner in the USA since 2008 and released the classic albums "Assassins: Black Meddle Pt. 1" (2008) and "Addicts: Black Meddle Part II" (2010). Now, Century Media finally looks into a worldwide partnership with NACHTMYSTIUM and plans great things to come in 2012!
Originally formed in 1999 by Blake Judd, NACHTMYSTIUM started off as a raw, primitive black metal band with a very derivative Norsk black metal influence. They released a number of records on underground labels before they turned into a new musical direction and 'psychedelic'-era. Over the past years NACHTMYSTIUM created a genre all of its own and will develop this progress for 2012.
Founding member Blake Judd (vocals, guitars) commented on the new deal: "We are very excited and honoured to be working with Century Media, a label who over the years has showcased a ferocious dedication to extreme music. GRAVE, TIAMAT, SAMAEL and countless other bands active in the early '90s were some of the first bands to inspire us endlessly to create our own metal music. We anticipate a great working relationship and hope to embark on a joint ascension to metal superiority together!"
Cash Money Records co-CEOs and founders Ronald "Slim" Williams and Bryan "Birdman" Williams have announced the signing of LIMP BIZKIT to the Cash Money and YMCMB family.
LIMP BIZKIT, founded by Durst in 1994, has sold over 33 million albums worldwide and recently completed several globally successful tours before linking up with Bryan and Ronald.
"The Cash Money Records and YMCMB family continues to grow and work in various music genres as shown by the addition of LIMP BIZKIT. We have always admired how they have been able to blend rock and hip hop andwill bring a unique sound to the label," says Birdman. "We are excited to see the work and collaborations that come from the entire Cash Money family with the addition of LIMP BIZKIT," adds Slim.
LIMP BIZKIT is currently recording with Birdman at the famed Hit Factory studio in Miami, preparing for their first release for the Cash Money label.
"As both an artist and someone who has signed artists, I can say without a doubt that Cash Money is at the top of their game," said Durst. "What attracted me to the label is not only their great taste and hustle, but their belief in their artists and the family atmosphere. Slim and Birdman allow their artists to be themselves and encourage creative output and continued development. I look forward to bringing my vision as a director as well as my voice to the label and to LIMP BIZKIT putting out some of our best music to date. . . This is the most at home, comfortable, and confident I have felt in the business."
LIMP BIZKIT last year parted ways with Interscope, the label that released all of the band's records thus far through its subsidiaries Flip, Geffen and Suretone Records.
Even though LIMP BIZKIT's latest album, "Gold Cobra", was the band's first CD to feature the original lineup of Fred Durst (vocals), Wes Borland (guitar), Sam Rivers (bass), John Otto (drums), and DJ Lethal since 2000's "Chocolate Starfish And Hot Dog Flavored Water", it has sold less than 75,000 copies in the United States since its June 2011 release, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
LIMP BIZKIT, founded by Durst in 1994, has sold over 33 million albums worldwide and recently completed several globally successful tours before linking up with Bryan and Ronald.
"The Cash Money Records and YMCMB family continues to grow and work in various music genres as shown by the addition of LIMP BIZKIT. We have always admired how they have been able to blend rock and hip hop andwill bring a unique sound to the label," says Birdman. "We are excited to see the work and collaborations that come from the entire Cash Money family with the addition of LIMP BIZKIT," adds Slim.
LIMP BIZKIT is currently recording with Birdman at the famed Hit Factory studio in Miami, preparing for their first release for the Cash Money label.
"As both an artist and someone who has signed artists, I can say without a doubt that Cash Money is at the top of their game," said Durst. "What attracted me to the label is not only their great taste and hustle, but their belief in their artists and the family atmosphere. Slim and Birdman allow their artists to be themselves and encourage creative output and continued development. I look forward to bringing my vision as a director as well as my voice to the label and to LIMP BIZKIT putting out some of our best music to date. . . This is the most at home, comfortable, and confident I have felt in the business."
LIMP BIZKIT last year parted ways with Interscope, the label that released all of the band's records thus far through its subsidiaries Flip, Geffen and Suretone Records.
Even though LIMP BIZKIT's latest album, "Gold Cobra", was the band's first CD to feature the original lineup of Fred Durst (vocals), Wes Borland (guitar), Sam Rivers (bass), John Otto (drums), and DJ Lethal since 2000's "Chocolate Starfish And Hot Dog Flavored Water", it has sold less than 75,000 copies in the United States since its June 2011 release, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
South Carolina-based extreme technical death metallers NILE have finished recording their new album and are scheduled to begin mixing the effort this weekend. The band's guitarist/vocalist Karl Sanders previously stated about NILE's new material, "Some of the drumming on this record will be boggling people's minds for years to come."
"Those Whom The Gods Detest", the latest album from NILE, sold 3,500 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 160 on The Billboard 200 chart. The CD landed at position No. 3 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.
"Those Whom The Gods Detest" was produced and mixed by Neil Kernon (NEVERMORE, CANNIBAL CORPSE, QUEENSRŸCHE), along with a drum-recording job by Erik Rutan (CANNIBAL CORPSE, VITAL REMAINS, GOATWHORE).
"Those Whom The Gods Detest", the latest album from NILE, sold 3,500 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 160 on The Billboard 200 chart. The CD landed at position No. 3 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.
"Those Whom The Gods Detest" was produced and mixed by Neil Kernon (NEVERMORE, CANNIBAL CORPSE, QUEENSRŸCHE), along with a drum-recording job by Erik Rutan (CANNIBAL CORPSE, VITAL REMAINS, GOATWHORE).
Swedish death metallers MALFEITOR have completed recording their new album, "Dum Morior Orior", for a spring release via Hellthrasher Productions (with the vinyl version to be made available through Chaos Records).
The CD will feature the following track listing:
01. Conversation In Minor
02. Exile From Sanity
03. To Hell, Farewell
04. When Last Breath Fades
05. Scenes From a Slaughterhouse
06. Rolling With Corpses
07. Death, The Dead And Me
08. Beyond The Horrorizon
09. Psychosis
10. And The Sky Turned To Rage
11. Sojourn Hell
MALFEITOR last year announced the addition of drummer Janne Björkenfjäll (EXCRUCIATE, MORPHEUS, MASTICATION, EXHUMED) to the group's ranks.
After MALFEITOR split up in 1994, Benny Moberg and Mattias Parkkila started BLOOD MORTIZED as an old-school Swedish death metal band in an effort to recapture a small shade of Tomas Skogsberg's famous Sunlight sound.
In 2010, Moberg decided to leave BLOOD MORTIZED and focus on the resuscitation of MALFEITOR. What we now will hear is a more intense, faster and brutal version of MALFEITOR, with influences from such acts as IMMOLATION and DEICIDE.
The CD will feature the following track listing:
01. Conversation In Minor
02. Exile From Sanity
03. To Hell, Farewell
04. When Last Breath Fades
05. Scenes From a Slaughterhouse
06. Rolling With Corpses
07. Death, The Dead And Me
08. Beyond The Horrorizon
09. Psychosis
10. And The Sky Turned To Rage
11. Sojourn Hell
MALFEITOR last year announced the addition of drummer Janne Björkenfjäll (EXCRUCIATE, MORPHEUS, MASTICATION, EXHUMED) to the group's ranks.
After MALFEITOR split up in 1994, Benny Moberg and Mattias Parkkila started BLOOD MORTIZED as an old-school Swedish death metal band in an effort to recapture a small shade of Tomas Skogsberg's famous Sunlight sound.
In 2010, Moberg decided to leave BLOOD MORTIZED and focus on the resuscitation of MALFEITOR. What we now will hear is a more intense, faster and brutal version of MALFEITOR, with influences from such acts as IMMOLATION and DEICIDE.
__._,_.___
.
__,_._,___
0 comments:
Post a Comment