RIVAL SONS drummer Michael Miley was given the chance to perform with rock royalty yesterday, when he joined THE WHO frontman Roger Daltrey and Steve Winwood on stage in London.
Miley performed alongside the legendary musicians, along with the likes of THE ROLLING STONES guitarist Ronnie Wood, as part of a special Teenage Cancer Trust show at the iconic Royal Albert Hall.
Commented Miley: "Are you kidding me? Royal Albert Hall? Roger Daltrey, Steve Winwood, Ronnie Wood?! I got to sit in with them??!! Am I dreaming? What an experience. What a show. All to benefit young people battling cancer. God bless those kids. And God bless Roger for putting together these concerts. I am very thankful to have been part of it."
RIVAL SONS played the final show of its U.K. tour with BLACK STONE CHERRY immediately before the Teenage Cancer Trust show, and is now heading on to mainland Europe for a number of headlining dates.
RIVAL SONS recently entered the studio to record its new album, due later this year via Earache Records. The CD was laid down at Honey Pye Studios in Nashville, Tennessee with Grammy-nominated producer Dave Cobb, who has worked on all three previous releases from the band, and Grammy-winning engineer Vance Powell.
RIVAL SONS' latest album, "Pressure And Time", is out now worldwide on CD and limited-edition audiophile vinyl, as well as on iTunes with two exclusive bonus tracks.
RIVAL SONS was nominated for two Classic Rock awards, in the categories of "Best New Band" and "Best Album".
Miley performed alongside the legendary musicians, along with the likes of THE ROLLING STONES guitarist Ronnie Wood, as part of a special Teenage Cancer Trust show at the iconic Royal Albert Hall.
Commented Miley: "Are you kidding me? Royal Albert Hall? Roger Daltrey, Steve Winwood, Ronnie Wood?! I got to sit in with them??!! Am I dreaming? What an experience. What a show. All to benefit young people battling cancer. God bless those kids. And God bless Roger for putting together these concerts. I am very thankful to have been part of it."
RIVAL SONS played the final show of its U.K. tour with BLACK STONE CHERRY immediately before the Teenage Cancer Trust show, and is now heading on to mainland Europe for a number of headlining dates.
RIVAL SONS recently entered the studio to record its new album, due later this year via Earache Records. The CD was laid down at Honey Pye Studios in Nashville, Tennessee with Grammy-nominated producer Dave Cobb, who has worked on all three previous releases from the band, and Grammy-winning engineer Vance Powell.
RIVAL SONS' latest album, "Pressure And Time", is out now worldwide on CD and limited-edition audiophile vinyl, as well as on iTunes with two exclusive bonus tracks.
RIVAL SONS was nominated for two Classic Rock awards, in the categories of "Best New Band" and "Best Album".
Four members of AEROSMITH (everyone but guitarist Brad Whitford who was on the road with the "Experience Hendrix" tour) took part in a press conference at The Grove in Los Angeles on March 28 to announce their new album and upcoming tour. Introduced by Jimmy Kimmel, the musicians — including singer Steven Tyler, bassist Tom Hamilton and guitarist Joe Perry — spoke to the media about their upcoming "The Global Warming" tour with CHEAP TRICK and their long-awaited new studio album, which is due this summer.
"We've been underground for four months, doing what we do the best. We've been known to set the world on fire," Steven said. "We haven't been played any music for the last couple years, at least, so we decided to do 'The Global Warming' tour and come out from under the hood, so to speak. We've got a new album, we've got a new tour."
Stated Joe, "It's getting warm, it's going to get hotter. I think this is the first time we're going to actually play some songs off our new record for our fans, along with the old good ones. So we can't wait to bring this thing home." Steven concurred, adding, "We're really looking forward to kicking some ass with this new album."
With regards to the upcoming album, Tyler revealed that the recording portion of the production process is almost completed, with two more songs left to finish. "'Legendary Child', 'Beautiful', 'Out Go The Lights'. A bunch of great songs are on this album," he said. "It will be out in three months." He went on, "We've got a dream team going on here. Jack Douglas produced the record."
"Jack is part of the DNA of this band," Hamilton said. "We learned how to make records with him back in the '70s. That process, and the way we get along, and the way he inspires us, it's still happening. The first day of writing and rehearsal that process came right back. The guy is a joy to work with."
Speaking to Reuters, Steven said, "The camaraderie's there, there's some songs that are new rock, and old rock and middle-of-the-road rock, and blues, piano. Joe Perry singing a couple of songs, I'm playing the drums, Joey [Kramer, drums] sings, just all kinds of stuff."
He added, "The music that we write, fortunately it's been seductive to all genres of people. There's going to be kids who are going to get introduced to AEROSMITH all over again, and there's a bunch of new music that we're taking a risk and putting out. It's kind of futuristic rock, all the way across the board, we're just good for that."
AEROSMITH's "The Global Warming" tour will kick it off on June 16 at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota and wrap up on August 8 in Tacoma, Washington.
"We've been underground for four months, doing what we do the best. We've been known to set the world on fire," Steven said. "We haven't been played any music for the last couple years, at least, so we decided to do 'The Global Warming' tour and come out from under the hood, so to speak. We've got a new album, we've got a new tour."
Stated Joe, "It's getting warm, it's going to get hotter. I think this is the first time we're going to actually play some songs off our new record for our fans, along with the old good ones. So we can't wait to bring this thing home." Steven concurred, adding, "We're really looking forward to kicking some ass with this new album."
With regards to the upcoming album, Tyler revealed that the recording portion of the production process is almost completed, with two more songs left to finish. "'Legendary Child', 'Beautiful', 'Out Go The Lights'. A bunch of great songs are on this album," he said. "It will be out in three months." He went on, "We've got a dream team going on here. Jack Douglas produced the record."
"Jack is part of the DNA of this band," Hamilton said. "We learned how to make records with him back in the '70s. That process, and the way we get along, and the way he inspires us, it's still happening. The first day of writing and rehearsal that process came right back. The guy is a joy to work with."
Speaking to Reuters, Steven said, "The camaraderie's there, there's some songs that are new rock, and old rock and middle-of-the-road rock, and blues, piano. Joe Perry singing a couple of songs, I'm playing the drums, Joey [Kramer, drums] sings, just all kinds of stuff."
He added, "The music that we write, fortunately it's been seductive to all genres of people. There's going to be kids who are going to get introduced to AEROSMITH all over again, and there's a bunch of new music that we're taking a risk and putting out. It's kind of futuristic rock, all the way across the board, we're just good for that."
AEROSMITH's "The Global Warming" tour will kick it off on June 16 at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota and wrap up on August 8 in Tacoma, Washington.
The storage facility in Los Angeles which houses the Alice Cooper archives was broken into on March 27, along with three other storage units. A police report has been filed. Items missing include a large quantity of original vinyl records, a jacket, and the original sculpture which was used for the cover of the "Hey Stoopid" album.
With multiple units broken into, it is not believed that Alice's archives were specifically targeted.
If anyone sees anything suspicious or hears anything about these stolen items — especially on the Internet or in Los Angeles — contact archives@alicecooper.com.
With multiple units broken into, it is not believed that Alice's archives were specifically targeted.
If anyone sees anything suspicious or hears anything about these stolen items — especially on the Internet or in Los Angeles — contact archives@alicecooper.com.
Original GUNS N' ROSES drummer Steven Adler says that the band's lead singer, Axl Rose, is driving the GN'R name "into the freakin' ground" by continuing to tour with a bunch of "hacks" that "shouldn't even be [called] GUNS N' ROSES."
Although Slash recently confirmed that the original lineup of GUNS N' ROSES would not perform at its upcoming induction into Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, the guitarist and Adler have both made it clear that they are not to blame — and in fact would like to see it happen.
"[Slash is] my brother. I know he's up to it," Adler told Loudwire in an interview conducted earlier today. "He wants to do it. I want to do it. Just from what I hear, Izzy [Stradlin]'s not gonna show up and Axl will probably want to play with his hack band — his band of hacks. 'Axl and His Hacks' — it shouldn't even be GUNS N' ROSES. He's just driving that name into the freakin' ground. 'Axl and His Hacks.'"
Rose was ambivalent in a recent interview about the Hall Of Fame, and told Billboard.com in 2009 that he could never see himself playing with Slash again, saying, "One of the two of us will die before a reunion. However sad, ugly or unfortunate anyone views it, it is how it is."
Adler told Loudwire, "My grandmother always said, 'Time heals all wounds.' Slash and Axl are one to each other. It's not like one of them slept with one of them's wives or anything — and even that's forgivable after a while. There is no reason to be upset."
The 27th annual Hall Of Fame ceremony will be held on April 14. In addition to GUNS N' ROSES, other artists being inducted include the RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS, the BEASTIE BOYS, the FACES/SMALL FACES, DONOVAN and LAURA NYRO.
The ceremony will be taped for broadcast by HBO, which plans to air it in early May.
Although Slash recently confirmed that the original lineup of GUNS N' ROSES would not perform at its upcoming induction into Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, the guitarist and Adler have both made it clear that they are not to blame — and in fact would like to see it happen.
"[Slash is] my brother. I know he's up to it," Adler told Loudwire in an interview conducted earlier today. "He wants to do it. I want to do it. Just from what I hear, Izzy [Stradlin]'s not gonna show up and Axl will probably want to play with his hack band — his band of hacks. 'Axl and His Hacks' — it shouldn't even be GUNS N' ROSES. He's just driving that name into the freakin' ground. 'Axl and His Hacks.'"
Rose was ambivalent in a recent interview about the Hall Of Fame, and told Billboard.com in 2009 that he could never see himself playing with Slash again, saying, "One of the two of us will die before a reunion. However sad, ugly or unfortunate anyone views it, it is how it is."
Adler told Loudwire, "My grandmother always said, 'Time heals all wounds.' Slash and Axl are one to each other. It's not like one of them slept with one of them's wives or anything — and even that's forgivable after a while. There is no reason to be upset."
The 27th annual Hall Of Fame ceremony will be held on April 14. In addition to GUNS N' ROSES, other artists being inducted include the RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS, the BEASTIE BOYS, the FACES/SMALL FACES, DONOVAN and LAURA NYRO.
The ceremony will be taped for broadcast by HBO, which plans to air it in early May.
Former GUNS N' ROSES bandmates Steven Adler and Duff McKagan will present the "Riff Lord" award at the Revolver Golden Gods Awards show.
The fourth annual Revolver Golden Gods Awards show presented by Epiphone will take place Wednesday, April 11, at Club Nokia in Downtown Los Angeles. For the first time ever, the event will be broadcast live in its entirety on Xbox LIVE, as well as on the Xbox and Revolver Facebook pages.
The 2012 Revolver Golden Gods Awards show will feature one-of-a-kind special performances and collaborations that honor both the past, present and future of heavy music. The night's hard-rocking musical performances will include sets by MARILYN MANSON (in his first U.S. performance in nearly three years); iconic Grammy-winning guitarist Slash featuring Myles Kennedy and THE CONSPIRATORS; EVANESCENCE; SIXX: A.M. featuring Nikki Sixx of MÖTLEY CRÜE, James Michael, acclaimed rock producer and songwriter, and DJ Ashba of GUNS N' ROSES (in their first performance in almost four years); and 2011 "Best New Band" Golden Gods award winner BLACK VEIL BRIDES, who will perform their only U.S. show of 2012 so far.
Also on April 11, the Grammy Museum, next door to Club Nokia, will open its new exhibit Golden Gods: The History of Heavy Metal. Mounted in coordination with Revolver, the exhibit will feature never-before-displayed artifacts including instruments, stage props, handwritten lyrics, clothing and costumes, alongside original album artwork, posters and live-performance and interview footage. The exhibit will also feature a variety of interactive displays.
The fourth annual Revolver Golden Gods Awards show presented by Epiphone will take place Wednesday, April 11, at Club Nokia in Downtown Los Angeles. For the first time ever, the event will be broadcast live in its entirety on Xbox LIVE, as well as on the Xbox and Revolver Facebook pages.
The 2012 Revolver Golden Gods Awards show will feature one-of-a-kind special performances and collaborations that honor both the past, present and future of heavy music. The night's hard-rocking musical performances will include sets by MARILYN MANSON (in his first U.S. performance in nearly three years); iconic Grammy-winning guitarist Slash featuring Myles Kennedy and THE CONSPIRATORS; EVANESCENCE; SIXX: A.M. featuring Nikki Sixx of MÖTLEY CRÜE, James Michael, acclaimed rock producer and songwriter, and DJ Ashba of GUNS N' ROSES (in their first performance in almost four years); and 2011 "Best New Band" Golden Gods award winner BLACK VEIL BRIDES, who will perform their only U.S. show of 2012 so far.
Also on April 11, the Grammy Museum, next door to Club Nokia, will open its new exhibit Golden Gods: The History of Heavy Metal. Mounted in coordination with Revolver, the exhibit will feature never-before-displayed artifacts including instruments, stage props, handwritten lyrics, clothing and costumes, alongside original album artwork, posters and live-performance and interview footage. The exhibit will also feature a variety of interactive displays.
According to The Pulse Of Radio, SOUNDGARDEN frontman Chris Cornell says in a new interview with Details that rock music has "definitely lost its place at the center of the musical universe." Asked about the state of rock today, Cornell remarks, "When I was growing up in the late Seventies, everyone could identify the five or 10 bands that formed the center. Even if you preferred the fringe — THE CLASH, over, say, VAN HALEN — you still knew what the center was. Now kids turn on the radio and hear Eminem or Kanye, so that's what they gravitate towards."
Cornell also says that he thinks modern technology has played a role in the decline of rock, adding, "They're making music on iPhones. Everything's fractured. The reason there's no modern-day Shakespeare is because he didn't have anything to do except sit in a room with a candle and think."
Cornell also speaks about his past drug use, saying, "When you pick up the pipe for the first time, you don't know that that's your fate. The moment isn't that dramatic. And then that was it — I didn't want to care anymore."
The singer admits he doesn't know why his generation of musicians was hit so much harder by drugs than previous ones, explaining, "Those bands somehow had the ability to be completely fucked up all the time and still function. They could play an amazing guitar solo even though they could barely walk. The Eighties killed that — everyone was doing coke."
The first new SOUNDGARDEN song in almost 16 years, called "Live To Rise", will appear on "Avengers Assemble", a companion album to the movie "The Avengers" also featuring new tracks from SHINEDOWN, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH and others. The set arrives on May 1, three days before the movie opens on May 4.
The song was recorded during the sessions from SOUNDGARDEN's first album of all-new material since 1996's "Down On The Upside", which is due out this fall.
Cornell also says that he thinks modern technology has played a role in the decline of rock, adding, "They're making music on iPhones. Everything's fractured. The reason there's no modern-day Shakespeare is because he didn't have anything to do except sit in a room with a candle and think."
Cornell also speaks about his past drug use, saying, "When you pick up the pipe for the first time, you don't know that that's your fate. The moment isn't that dramatic. And then that was it — I didn't want to care anymore."
The singer admits he doesn't know why his generation of musicians was hit so much harder by drugs than previous ones, explaining, "Those bands somehow had the ability to be completely fucked up all the time and still function. They could play an amazing guitar solo even though they could barely walk. The Eighties killed that — everyone was doing coke."
The first new SOUNDGARDEN song in almost 16 years, called "Live To Rise", will appear on "Avengers Assemble", a companion album to the movie "The Avengers" also featuring new tracks from SHINEDOWN, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH and others. The set arrives on May 1, three days before the movie opens on May 4.
The song was recorded during the sessions from SOUNDGARDEN's first album of all-new material since 1996's "Down On The Upside", which is due out this fall.
The organizers of the U.K. edition of the Sonisphere festival have confirmed the cancelation of this year's event, which was due to take place July 6-8 at Knebworth House in Hertfordshire.
The news first broke online last night when headliners QUEEN posted a message on their web site that their much-anticipated performance with "American Idol" alum Adam Lambert was being called off. By yesterday afternoon, however, all mention of the Knebworth show had disappeared from QUEEN's web site.
Aside from QUEEN and Lambert's performance, the festival's bill also included KISS — who has also performed with Lambert during the "Idol" Season 8 finale — INCUBUS, THE DARKNESS and EVANESCENCE.
Sonisphere was reportedly struggling to sell tickets for this year's edition of the festival, despite being one of the U.K.'s few remaining true rock events.
Commented the organizers: "It is with very heavy hearts and much regret that we announce the cancellation of Sonisphere Knebworth 2012.
"Putting the festival together in what is proving to be a very challenging year was more difficult than we anticipated and we have spent the last few months fighting hard to keep Sonisphere in the calendar. Unfortunately circumstances have dictated that we would be unable to run the festival to a standard that both the artists and that Sonisphere's audience would rightly expect.
"We want to express our deepest regrets to the artists and to thank all the staff, suppliers and contractors who worked so hard with us to try and pull off what has proven to be an impossible task and we know how much they share in our disappointment. We also want to send a huge thanks to the Sonisphere fans who stuck by us and we are so sorry that we can't fulfil what we set out to do.
"Ticket holders will automatically receive a full refund direct from their ticket agents."
The news first broke online last night when headliners QUEEN posted a message on their web site that their much-anticipated performance with "American Idol" alum Adam Lambert was being called off. By yesterday afternoon, however, all mention of the Knebworth show had disappeared from QUEEN's web site.
Aside from QUEEN and Lambert's performance, the festival's bill also included KISS — who has also performed with Lambert during the "Idol" Season 8 finale — INCUBUS, THE DARKNESS and EVANESCENCE.
Sonisphere was reportedly struggling to sell tickets for this year's edition of the festival, despite being one of the U.K.'s few remaining true rock events.
Commented the organizers: "It is with very heavy hearts and much regret that we announce the cancellation of Sonisphere Knebworth 2012.
"Putting the festival together in what is proving to be a very challenging year was more difficult than we anticipated and we have spent the last few months fighting hard to keep Sonisphere in the calendar. Unfortunately circumstances have dictated that we would be unable to run the festival to a standard that both the artists and that Sonisphere's audience would rightly expect.
"We want to express our deepest regrets to the artists and to thank all the staff, suppliers and contractors who worked so hard with us to try and pull off what has proven to be an impossible task and we know how much they share in our disappointment. We also want to send a huge thanks to the Sonisphere fans who stuck by us and we are so sorry that we can't fulfil what we set out to do.
"Ticket holders will automatically receive a full refund direct from their ticket agents."
GREAT WHITE — Mark Kendall (lead guitar), Scott Snyder (bass), Audie Desbrow (drums), Michael Lardie (guitar, keyboards) and Terry Ilous (lead vocals) — has finished mastering its new studio album, "Elation", for a May 22 North American release (four days earlier in Europe) via Frontiers Records. The 12-song CD will mark GREAT WHITE's first effort with Ilous following the band's split with founding singer Jack Russell.
"This is a new birth of the band," Desbrow says. "I wanted to call the album 'Tabula Rasa', which means rebirth, but we went for 'Elation' because of the euphoria in the atmosphere. It's a fresh and healthier start than ever before. I'm like a kid in a candy store."
Kendall, one of rock's most notable guitarists, echoed Desbrow's pure excitement. "The energy in the studio is amazing," Kendall says. "This is the most excited I've been since I was nine years old and got my first guitar. It's remarkable to be doing our third record with Frontiers Records and to feel the love and support from Serafino and his team. They are truly part of the GREAT WHITE family."
Lardie, who also served as "Elation"'s producer, applauded the band's teamwork in the studio. He was struck by the group's songwriting approach and enthusiasm, and is certain that fans will embrace the record.
"The difference in this studio experience was simple," he says. "Everyone was completely present and contributed to the making of this album. As a producer, I feel my part is to get the best out of each of us and I got better than anyone's best!"
"Elation" track listing:
01. (I've Got) Something For You
02. Feelin' So Much Better
03. Love Train
04. Heart Of A Man
05. Hard To Say Goodbye
06. Resolution
07. Shotgun Willie's
08. Promise Land
09. Lowdown (bonus track)
10. Just For Tonight
11. Love Is Enough
12. Complicated
This version of GREAT WHITE is not to be confused with JACK RUSSELL'S GREAT WHITE, which features Russell alongside Robby Lochner (FIGHT) on guitar, Matthew Johnson (DOCTOR M, JACK RUSSELL) on guitar, Dario Seixas (FIREHOUSE, STEPHEN PEARCY) on bass and Derrick Pontier (GREAT WHITE, SAMANTHA 7) on drums.
Kendall, Snyder, Desbrow, Lardie and Ilous issued a statement in December in which they claimed that Jack Russell's "frail body" and "drug abuse" 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."
GREAT WHITE's last studio album, "Rising" (featuring Russell on lead vocals), was released in North America in April 2009 via Shrapnel Records. The CD was issued in Europe in March 2009 through Frontiers Records.
"This is a new birth of the band," Desbrow says. "I wanted to call the album 'Tabula Rasa', which means rebirth, but we went for 'Elation' because of the euphoria in the atmosphere. It's a fresh and healthier start than ever before. I'm like a kid in a candy store."
Kendall, one of rock's most notable guitarists, echoed Desbrow's pure excitement. "The energy in the studio is amazing," Kendall says. "This is the most excited I've been since I was nine years old and got my first guitar. It's remarkable to be doing our third record with Frontiers Records and to feel the love and support from Serafino and his team. They are truly part of the GREAT WHITE family."
Lardie, who also served as "Elation"'s producer, applauded the band's teamwork in the studio. He was struck by the group's songwriting approach and enthusiasm, and is certain that fans will embrace the record.
"The difference in this studio experience was simple," he says. "Everyone was completely present and contributed to the making of this album. As a producer, I feel my part is to get the best out of each of us and I got better than anyone's best!"
"Elation" track listing:
01. (I've Got) Something For You
02. Feelin' So Much Better
03. Love Train
04. Heart Of A Man
05. Hard To Say Goodbye
06. Resolution
07. Shotgun Willie's
08. Promise Land
09. Lowdown (bonus track)
10. Just For Tonight
11. Love Is Enough
12. Complicated
This version of GREAT WHITE is not to be confused with JACK RUSSELL'S GREAT WHITE, which features Russell alongside Robby Lochner (FIGHT) on guitar, Matthew Johnson (DOCTOR M, JACK RUSSELL) on guitar, Dario Seixas (FIREHOUSE, STEPHEN PEARCY) on bass and Derrick Pontier (GREAT WHITE, SAMANTHA 7) on drums.
Kendall, Snyder, Desbrow, Lardie and Ilous issued a statement in December in which they claimed that Jack Russell's "frail body" and "drug abuse" 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."
GREAT WHITE's last studio album, "Rising" (featuring Russell on lead vocals), was released in North America in April 2009 via Shrapnel Records. The CD was issued in Europe in March 2009 through Frontiers Records.
Century Media Records is auctioning off special rarities via the label's official eBay store. These "Treasures From The Vault" have been collected over the years and stored at the Century Media office, but they will now be given away to the highest-bidding fan. The store currently has test pressings available from MAYHEM, KATATONIA, ...AND THEY WILL KNOW US BY THE TRAIL OF DEAD, 3 INCHES OF BLOOD, LACUNA COIL and NACHTMYSTIUM, in addition to the LACUNA COIL Medical Box.
Check out the official Century Media Records eBay store now and place your bid.
Check out the official Century Media Records eBay store now and place your bid.
ADRENALINE MOB — the band featuring featuring drummer Mike Portnoy (DREAM THEATER, AVENGED SEVENFOLD), SYMPHONY X frontman Russell Allen, guitar virtuoso Mike Orlando (SONIC STOMP) and DISTURBED bassist John Moyer — will perform after the San Antonio Rampage American Hockey League game against the Milwaukee Admirals on Saturday, April 7 at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. The festivities will begin at 5:30 p.m. with performances by Natural Ear Music School bands THE NEXT DAY and ARISEN in the Bud Light Courtyard.
The Natural Ear Music School is owned and operated by Moyer and teaches kids to play rock 'n' roll by ear by grouping kids in a similar age and experience range to form a functional band unit. The school was established in Austin, Texas in 1991 will open a school in San Antonio this summer.
Tickets start at $10 and can be purchased by calling a Rampage representative at 210.444.5554 or online at sarampage.com.
ADRENALINE MOB travelled to Los Angeles earlier in the month to film a video for the song "Indifferent". The clip, which was directed by Scott Hansen (A DAY TO REMEMBER, UNEARTH, WILLIE NELSON), was shot in the desert in California and throughout Los Angeles and should be making its debut in the next few weeks.
"Indifferent" comes off ADRENALINE MOB's debut album, "Omertá", which sold around 6,600 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 70 on The Billboard 200 chart. The CD was released in Europe on March 19 in Europe via Century Media Records and in the U.S. on March 13 through the newly formed Elm City Music in conjunction with EMI Label Services.
The 11-song effort — which was produced by ADRENALINE MOB and mixed by Jay Ruston, who has previously worked on ANTHRAX's "Worship Music" and STEEL PANTHER's "Balls Out" — includes a blistering reinterpretation of DURAN DURAN's classic "Come Undone" featuring guest vocals by Lzzy Hale of HALESTORM.
ADRENALINE MOB will embark on a European tour in June.
The Natural Ear Music School is owned and operated by Moyer and teaches kids to play rock 'n' roll by ear by grouping kids in a similar age and experience range to form a functional band unit. The school was established in Austin, Texas in 1991 will open a school in San Antonio this summer.
Tickets start at $10 and can be purchased by calling a Rampage representative at 210.444.5554 or online at sarampage.com.
ADRENALINE MOB travelled to Los Angeles earlier in the month to film a video for the song "Indifferent". The clip, which was directed by Scott Hansen (A DAY TO REMEMBER, UNEARTH, WILLIE NELSON), was shot in the desert in California and throughout Los Angeles and should be making its debut in the next few weeks.
"Indifferent" comes off ADRENALINE MOB's debut album, "Omertá", which sold around 6,600 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 70 on The Billboard 200 chart. The CD was released in Europe on March 19 in Europe via Century Media Records and in the U.S. on March 13 through the newly formed Elm City Music in conjunction with EMI Label Services.
The 11-song effort — which was produced by ADRENALINE MOB and mixed by Jay Ruston, who has previously worked on ANTHRAX's "Worship Music" and STEEL PANTHER's "Balls Out" — includes a blistering reinterpretation of DURAN DURAN's classic "Come Undone" featuring guest vocals by Lzzy Hale of HALESTORM.
ADRENALINE MOB will embark on a European tour in June.
Los Angeles cyber metallers FEAR FACTORY have revealed the cover artwork and package details for their forthcoming album, "The Industrialist". Set for North American release on June 5 via Candlelight Records, the CD is a conceptual record based around a story written by vocalist Burton C. Bell. Lyrics to the album's ten songs divulge the narrative as discussed recently by Bell with Decibel magazine. The album's artwork was created by American designer Anthony Clarkson with additional direction from the band. The album will be available on three formats — standard CD, a limited edition deluxe digi-book (featuring two additional songs), and 180-gram double vinyl.
Bell notes, "The protagonist (The Industrialist) is the incarnation of all industries in the form of an automaton. The mechanical, technological, and scientific advances through the industrial age led to the creation of The Industrialist. In the story, the automaton becomes sentient as it collects memories with each passing day. Through observation and learning, it gains the will to exist. What was meant to help man, will eventually be man's demise."
"The Industrialist" again pairs FEAR FACTORY with producer Rhys Fulber. Mixed by Greg Reely (PARADISE LOST, SKINNY PUPPY, MACHINE HEAD), with additional tracking by Logan Mader (GOJIRA, DIVINE HERESY), the album is the second written by Bell and guitarist Dino Cazares since reuniting in 2009 after a seven-year split. Cazares says, "Collaborating with Burton again on the new album was like magic. Everything just fell into place naturally. It felt good to recapture the true sound of FEAR FACTORY, taking it back to where it all started while raising it to new levels." Regarding Fulber, Cazares says, "Rhys has been our secret member. He is the one producer who has been able to understand what we have been trying to accomplish from the beginning and has opened our eyes to new things without sacrificing our original sound. His production and keyboard talents has made FEAR FACTORY stand out amongst the many bands of our genre."
"The Industrialist" track listing:
01. The Industrialist
02. Recharger
03. New Messiah
04. God Eater
05. Depraved Mind Murder
06. Virus of Faith
07. Difference Engine
08. Dissemble
09. Religion is Flawed Because Man is Flawed
10. Human Augmentation
11. Blush Response (Difference Engine) *
12. Landfill *
* Available on deluxe digibook only
FEAR FACTORY's first tour dates since 2011 kick off with four performances in South America, including Brazil, Argentina, and Chile, before starting American dates in San Antonio on May 1. Support on the trek will come from SHADOWS FALL, THE BROWNING, THE DEVASTED and LEGACY OF DISORDER.
Bell notes, "The protagonist (The Industrialist) is the incarnation of all industries in the form of an automaton. The mechanical, technological, and scientific advances through the industrial age led to the creation of The Industrialist. In the story, the automaton becomes sentient as it collects memories with each passing day. Through observation and learning, it gains the will to exist. What was meant to help man, will eventually be man's demise."
"The Industrialist" again pairs FEAR FACTORY with producer Rhys Fulber. Mixed by Greg Reely (PARADISE LOST, SKINNY PUPPY, MACHINE HEAD), with additional tracking by Logan Mader (GOJIRA, DIVINE HERESY), the album is the second written by Bell and guitarist Dino Cazares since reuniting in 2009 after a seven-year split. Cazares says, "Collaborating with Burton again on the new album was like magic. Everything just fell into place naturally. It felt good to recapture the true sound of FEAR FACTORY, taking it back to where it all started while raising it to new levels." Regarding Fulber, Cazares says, "Rhys has been our secret member. He is the one producer who has been able to understand what we have been trying to accomplish from the beginning and has opened our eyes to new things without sacrificing our original sound. His production and keyboard talents has made FEAR FACTORY stand out amongst the many bands of our genre."
"The Industrialist" track listing:
01. The Industrialist
02. Recharger
03. New Messiah
04. God Eater
05. Depraved Mind Murder
06. Virus of Faith
07. Difference Engine
08. Dissemble
09. Religion is Flawed Because Man is Flawed
10. Human Augmentation
11. Blush Response (Difference Engine) *
12. Landfill *
* Available on deluxe digibook only
FEAR FACTORY's first tour dates since 2011 kick off with four performances in South America, including Brazil, Argentina, and Chile, before starting American dates in San Antonio on May 1. Support on the trek will come from SHADOWS FALL, THE BROWNING, THE DEVASTED and LEGACY OF DISORDER.
Stuttgart, Germany-based sleaze metal band HELLDORADOS have inked a worldwide deal with Massacre Records/Soulfood. The band's new full-length album was now produced at the legendary Horus Sound Studios (SCORPIONS, HELLOWEEN, KREATOR, VICTORY, GUANO APES) in Hannover and will be released on Friday, July 13.
According to a press release, HELLDORADOS' sound are somewhere between the hit potential of a catchy ABBA tune, the sleaze of GUNS N' ROSES and the striking force of PANTERA. A strange mixture but it seems to function."
HELLDORADOS' four-song promotional EP was recorded in February 2011 at Horus Sound Studios under the direction of producer Mirko Hofmann.
According to a press release, HELLDORADOS' sound are somewhere between the hit potential of a catchy ABBA tune, the sleaze of GUNS N' ROSES and the striking force of PANTERA. A strange mixture but it seems to function."
HELLDORADOS' four-song promotional EP was recorded in February 2011 at Horus Sound Studios under the direction of producer Mirko Hofmann.
The makers of the documentary "A History Of A Time To Come", based on the history of the U.K. thrash movement, have begun editing the film.
The filmmakers wrapped production last month and has just started the editing process at Prime Studios in Leeds.
Commented director Joshua Callis-Smith: "It's a great feeling to be finally in the edit looking over everything we've shot over the last year, during the process all the interviews and 80+ hours of footage will be pulled together to create what is effectively the film. The aim is to have a rough cut within the next two weeks so we can really start to play about with the structure and graphics we want to put in the film"
The editing process will take place over the next three months before the film moves into the grading, visual effect and sound mix stages with a likely release for the end of this year.
The film covers the complete story of the U.K. thrash metal scene — its ups, its downs and its impact on the U.K. and global music industry. The project plans to pull together and uncover the full story of the U.K. thrash scene, from its roots in the mid-'80s until the present day.
U.K. music journalist Greg Moffitt is currently writing a book entitled "One Foot In The Gravy" as a companion piece to the film. The book will expand the narrative, adding layers of detail and exploring in greater depth the development, decline and eventual re-emergence of U.K. thrash.
Sneak peeks, new trailers and possibly even some never-before-seen content will be made available over the next six months.
The following bands are involved in the project so far:
ACID REIGN
ANIHILATED
ARBITRATER
ATOMKRAFT
D.A.M.
DEATHWISH
EVILE
HELLBASTARD
HOLOSADE
HYDRA VEIN
LAWNMOWER DETH
METAL MESSIAH
MUTANT
ONSLAUGHT
PENDEMIA
PITIFUL REIGN
RAVEN
RE-ANIMATOR
SABBAT
SAVAGE MESSIAH
SEREGON
SEVENTH ANGEL
SHORT SHARP SHOCK
TORANAGA
VENOM
VIRUS
XENTRIX
For more information, visit www.ahistoryofatimetocome.co.uk.
The filmmakers wrapped production last month and has just started the editing process at Prime Studios in Leeds.
Commented director Joshua Callis-Smith: "It's a great feeling to be finally in the edit looking over everything we've shot over the last year, during the process all the interviews and 80+ hours of footage will be pulled together to create what is effectively the film. The aim is to have a rough cut within the next two weeks so we can really start to play about with the structure and graphics we want to put in the film"
The editing process will take place over the next three months before the film moves into the grading, visual effect and sound mix stages with a likely release for the end of this year.
The film covers the complete story of the U.K. thrash metal scene — its ups, its downs and its impact on the U.K. and global music industry. The project plans to pull together and uncover the full story of the U.K. thrash scene, from its roots in the mid-'80s until the present day.
U.K. music journalist Greg Moffitt is currently writing a book entitled "One Foot In The Gravy" as a companion piece to the film. The book will expand the narrative, adding layers of detail and exploring in greater depth the development, decline and eventual re-emergence of U.K. thrash.
Sneak peeks, new trailers and possibly even some never-before-seen content will be made available over the next six months.
The following bands are involved in the project so far:
ACID REIGN
ANIHILATED
ARBITRATER
ATOMKRAFT
D.A.M.
DEATHWISH
EVILE
HELLBASTARD
HOLOSADE
HYDRA VEIN
LAWNMOWER DETH
METAL MESSIAH
MUTANT
ONSLAUGHT
PENDEMIA
PITIFUL REIGN
RAVEN
RE-ANIMATOR
SABBAT
SAVAGE MESSIAH
SEREGON
SEVENTH ANGEL
SHORT SHARP SHOCK
TORANAGA
VENOM
VIRUS
XENTRIX
For more information, visit www.ahistoryofatimetocome.co.uk.
Legendary hard rock vocalist Jeff Scott Soto (TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA, TALISMAN, JOURNEY, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN) has joined The Queen Extravaganza, the spectacular touring concert show designed to take the glorious music and the live experience of legends of rock QUEEN to generations of fans in cities coast-to-coast across the U.S. and Canada.
Commented Soto: "I am proud to announce my involvement in The Queen Extravaganza that will storm North America and Canada this summer! As long time friends of both Roger Taylor and Brian May but also a lifetime fan of the legend that is QUEEN, I was honored to be personally invited by Roger for this exciting venture. My own personal fans know what it means to me to sing these songs and I hope to be a contributing factor in helping make it a whopping success. See you on the road. I promise you you won't want to miss what's in store with this show!"
Behind The Queen Extravaganza are QUEEN — legendary guitarist Brian May and iconic drummer Roger Taylor — whose talents as writers and musicians have inspired such legends of modern times as the FOO FIGHTERS, RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS, Katy Perry, and even Lady Gaga, who took her name from one of Taylor's biggest hit songs. Taylor's idea was to the create the ultimate QUEEN concert experience in an electrifying road show that celebrates the band's music and legacy performed by some of the best new music talent out there today. Taylor personally takes the role of producer and music director.
To guarantee the touring show matches the fabled design and excitement of QUEEN at its live best, Taylor has enlisted a heavyweight production team headed by stage designer Mark Fisher. Fisher has been responsible for some of the most memorable rock concerts ever staged, including "The Wall" for PINK FLOYD, every THE ROLLING STONES show since 1989, and, working with lighting designer Willie Williams, every U2 concert.
The Queen Extravaganza touring band — four vocalists and five musicians (two guitars, bass, drums and keyboards) — were hired after an intensive 12-week online audition search. The buzz surrounding the public auditions sparked worldwide interest with video submissions generating more than 10 million views. Television host Ellen DeGeneres was so impressed with the level of talent, that she invited one hopeful to perform his audition on her show. That contestant, Nashville's Marc Martel, secured himself a place in the final band. The rest of The Queen Extravaganza band includes vocalist and The Queen Extravaganza contestant Jennifer Espinoza along with addition vocalists Yvan Pedneault and Jeff Scott Soto; bassist Francois Olivier Doyon; guitarists Brian Gresh and Tristan Avakian; drummer Tyler Warren and keyboardist and musical director Brandon Ethridge.
In a show which will run just over two hours of playing time, with a 30-minute break, The Queen Extravaganza band will perform close on 40 true QUEEN classics drawn from a list of the band's biggest all-time chart hits — "Bohemian Rhapsody", "Another One Bites the Dust", "Crazy Little Thing Called Love", "Under Pressure", "We Will Rock You/We Are the Champions", "A Kind of Magic", "Radio Ga Ga", "Somebody to Love", "Killer Queen" — as well as highlighting some of the band's finest heavy-duty rock based anthems which have long been at the core of their live performances, so audiences can also expect a healthy dose of early-period QUEEN with songs such as "I'm In Love With My Car", "Tie Your Mother Down", "Seven Seas of Rye" and "In the Lap Of The Gods" among them.
Production values will be boosted with the inclusion of never-before-seen video footage.
"The Queen Extravaganza will not be like a traditional tribute show," says Taylor. "It is a brand new show specially designed to enable these new fans, together with fans of old, to celebrate the music of QUEEN in a heart stopping event." He adds, "It's going to be very spectacular, it's going to be very visual, there are going to be some shocks and some tremendous surprises. It will be a rock celebration in the Royal tradition."
The Queen Extravaganza tour dates are as follows:
May 26 Quebec, QC - Grand Theatre du Quebec
May 27 Montreal, QC - St. Denis
May 29 Toronto, ON - QE Theatre
May 31 Detroit, MI - Fox Theatre
Jun. 01 - Chicago, IL - House of Blues
Jun. 02 - Minneapolis, MN - The Brick
Jun. 05 - St. Louis, MO - The Pageant
Jun. 07 - Philadelphia, PA - Theatre of Living Arts
Jun. 08 - Washington, DC - 9:30 Club
Jun. 09 - Wallingford, CT - Oakdale
Jun. 10 - Bethlehem, PA - Event Center
Jun. 11 - Boston, MA - House of Blues
Jun. 12 - Huntington, NY - Paramount Theatres
Jun. 15 - Tampa, FL Louis - Lykes Ferguson Hall
Jun. 17 - Orlando, FL - The Plaza Live
Jun. 19 - Dallas, TX - Grand Prarie
Jun. 20 - Houston, TX - House of Blues
Jun. 23 - Las Vegas, NV - House of Blues
Jun. 24 - San Diego, CA - Humphrey's
Jun. 25 - Los Angeles, CA - Club Nokia
Jun. 26 - San Francisco, CA - Regency
Jun. 28 - Seattle, WA - Showbox
Jun. 30 - Vancouver, BC - Orpheum
Jul. 02 - Calgary, AB - Jack Singer
Jul. 03 - Edmonton, AB - Jubilee
Commented Soto: "I am proud to announce my involvement in The Queen Extravaganza that will storm North America and Canada this summer! As long time friends of both Roger Taylor and Brian May but also a lifetime fan of the legend that is QUEEN, I was honored to be personally invited by Roger for this exciting venture. My own personal fans know what it means to me to sing these songs and I hope to be a contributing factor in helping make it a whopping success. See you on the road. I promise you you won't want to miss what's in store with this show!"
Behind The Queen Extravaganza are QUEEN — legendary guitarist Brian May and iconic drummer Roger Taylor — whose talents as writers and musicians have inspired such legends of modern times as the FOO FIGHTERS, RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS, Katy Perry, and even Lady Gaga, who took her name from one of Taylor's biggest hit songs. Taylor's idea was to the create the ultimate QUEEN concert experience in an electrifying road show that celebrates the band's music and legacy performed by some of the best new music talent out there today. Taylor personally takes the role of producer and music director.
To guarantee the touring show matches the fabled design and excitement of QUEEN at its live best, Taylor has enlisted a heavyweight production team headed by stage designer Mark Fisher. Fisher has been responsible for some of the most memorable rock concerts ever staged, including "The Wall" for PINK FLOYD, every THE ROLLING STONES show since 1989, and, working with lighting designer Willie Williams, every U2 concert.
The Queen Extravaganza touring band — four vocalists and five musicians (two guitars, bass, drums and keyboards) — were hired after an intensive 12-week online audition search. The buzz surrounding the public auditions sparked worldwide interest with video submissions generating more than 10 million views. Television host Ellen DeGeneres was so impressed with the level of talent, that she invited one hopeful to perform his audition on her show. That contestant, Nashville's Marc Martel, secured himself a place in the final band. The rest of The Queen Extravaganza band includes vocalist and The Queen Extravaganza contestant Jennifer Espinoza along with addition vocalists Yvan Pedneault and Jeff Scott Soto; bassist Francois Olivier Doyon; guitarists Brian Gresh and Tristan Avakian; drummer Tyler Warren and keyboardist and musical director Brandon Ethridge.
In a show which will run just over two hours of playing time, with a 30-minute break, The Queen Extravaganza band will perform close on 40 true QUEEN classics drawn from a list of the band's biggest all-time chart hits — "Bohemian Rhapsody", "Another One Bites the Dust", "Crazy Little Thing Called Love", "Under Pressure", "We Will Rock You/We Are the Champions", "A Kind of Magic", "Radio Ga Ga", "Somebody to Love", "Killer Queen" — as well as highlighting some of the band's finest heavy-duty rock based anthems which have long been at the core of their live performances, so audiences can also expect a healthy dose of early-period QUEEN with songs such as "I'm In Love With My Car", "Tie Your Mother Down", "Seven Seas of Rye" and "In the Lap Of The Gods" among them.
Production values will be boosted with the inclusion of never-before-seen video footage.
"The Queen Extravaganza will not be like a traditional tribute show," says Taylor. "It is a brand new show specially designed to enable these new fans, together with fans of old, to celebrate the music of QUEEN in a heart stopping event." He adds, "It's going to be very spectacular, it's going to be very visual, there are going to be some shocks and some tremendous surprises. It will be a rock celebration in the Royal tradition."
The Queen Extravaganza tour dates are as follows:
May 26 Quebec, QC - Grand Theatre du Quebec
May 27 Montreal, QC - St. Denis
May 29 Toronto, ON - QE Theatre
May 31 Detroit, MI - Fox Theatre
Jun. 01 - Chicago, IL - House of Blues
Jun. 02 - Minneapolis, MN - The Brick
Jun. 05 - St. Louis, MO - The Pageant
Jun. 07 - Philadelphia, PA - Theatre of Living Arts
Jun. 08 - Washington, DC - 9:30 Club
Jun. 09 - Wallingford, CT - Oakdale
Jun. 10 - Bethlehem, PA - Event Center
Jun. 11 - Boston, MA - House of Blues
Jun. 12 - Huntington, NY - Paramount Theatres
Jun. 15 - Tampa, FL Louis - Lykes Ferguson Hall
Jun. 17 - Orlando, FL - The Plaza Live
Jun. 19 - Dallas, TX - Grand Prarie
Jun. 20 - Houston, TX - House of Blues
Jun. 23 - Las Vegas, NV - House of Blues
Jun. 24 - San Diego, CA - Humphrey's
Jun. 25 - Los Angeles, CA - Club Nokia
Jun. 26 - San Francisco, CA - Regency
Jun. 28 - Seattle, WA - Showbox
Jun. 30 - Vancouver, BC - Orpheum
Jul. 02 - Calgary, AB - Jack Singer
Jul. 03 - Edmonton, AB - Jubilee
SHINEDOWN's fourth studio album, titled "Amaryllis", is likely to sell between 80,000 and 90,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release, according to industry web site Hits Daily Double. The estimate was based on one-day sales reports compiled after the record arrived in stores on March 27 via Atlantic.
SHINEDOWN landed the biggest debut of its career in July 2008 when its third album, "The Sound Of Madness", sold 50,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 8 on the Billboard Top 200. This marked the first Top 10 album of the band's career.
SHINEDOWN performed two songs — "Bully" and "Unity" — on this past Monday night's (March 26) episode of ABC-TV's "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" (which actually aired Tuesday morning). You can now watch video footage of their appearance below.
"Amaryllis" arrived in stores almost four years after the band issued "The Sound Of Madness". SHINEDOWN frontman Brent Smith told The Pulse Of Radio that even though the band really came together on that last effort, they didn't want to rest on their laurels while making "Amaryllis". "We're never really a band that's gonna ever be satisfied," he said. "We're never gonna be complacent with 'Oh, well, that'll do.' We're the band that's looking for the doors that everyone is afraid to find, because we like that. We like pushing the envelope constantly. It keeps us on our toes."
The first single from "Amaryllis", "Bully", has already topped the rock radio charts. The new single is called "Unity".
The million-selling "The Sound Of Madness" yielded six chart-topping singles like "Second Chance", "Devour", "If You Only Knew" and the title track. It debuted at No. 8 on the Billboard 200, spending 120 weeks on the album chart.
The release of "Amaryllis" is being accompanied by an e-book called "For Your Sake: Inside The Making Of Amaryllis", a 75-page, "completely interactive" e-book that contains commentary, photos, video footage and other content exclusively chronicling the creation of the new record.
SHINEDOWN is headlining the 2012 edition of the Avalanche Tour, which kicked off on Tuesday in Anaheim, California, with ADELITAS WAY, NEW MEDICINE and ART OF DYING also on the bill.
SHINEDOWN landed the biggest debut of its career in July 2008 when its third album, "The Sound Of Madness", sold 50,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 8 on the Billboard Top 200. This marked the first Top 10 album of the band's career.
SHINEDOWN performed two songs — "Bully" and "Unity" — on this past Monday night's (March 26) episode of ABC-TV's "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" (which actually aired Tuesday morning). You can now watch video footage of their appearance below.
"Amaryllis" arrived in stores almost four years after the band issued "The Sound Of Madness". SHINEDOWN frontman Brent Smith told The Pulse Of Radio that even though the band really came together on that last effort, they didn't want to rest on their laurels while making "Amaryllis". "We're never really a band that's gonna ever be satisfied," he said. "We're never gonna be complacent with 'Oh, well, that'll do.' We're the band that's looking for the doors that everyone is afraid to find, because we like that. We like pushing the envelope constantly. It keeps us on our toes."
The first single from "Amaryllis", "Bully", has already topped the rock radio charts. The new single is called "Unity".
The million-selling "The Sound Of Madness" yielded six chart-topping singles like "Second Chance", "Devour", "If You Only Knew" and the title track. It debuted at No. 8 on the Billboard 200, spending 120 weeks on the album chart.
The release of "Amaryllis" is being accompanied by an e-book called "For Your Sake: Inside The Making Of Amaryllis", a 75-page, "completely interactive" e-book that contains commentary, photos, video footage and other content exclusively chronicling the creation of the new record.
SHINEDOWN is headlining the 2012 edition of the Avalanche Tour, which kicked off on Tuesday in Anaheim, California, with ADELITAS WAY, NEW MEDICINE and ART OF DYING also on the bill.
SEVENDUST drummer Morgan Rose and guitarist Clint Lowery have launched their new project, CALL ME NO ONE, with a first single titled "Biggest Fan". The track is taken from the outfit's debut disc, "Last Parade", which will arrive on June 5. Rose told The Pulse Of Radio that the project has turned into something bigger than he and Lowery first envisioned. "This isn't really a side project. This is another band," he said. "I mean, other people have done it, but I guess that the closest thing we could compare it to is like STONE SOUR to SLIPKNOT, you know. I mean, we're gonna go ahead and do this, then when this runs its course, it should be right on time for SEVENDUST to get back and rolling."
Lowery recently described the sound of CALL ME NO ONE as "kind of NINE INCH NAILS meets FOO FIGHTERS."
SEVENDUST guitarist John Connolly and bassist Vince Hornsby also recently launched a new project, joining forces with CREED/ALTER BRIDGE drummer Scott Phillips in a new outfit called PROJECTED.
PROJECTED has already entered the studio to begin recording its debut disc, to be made available later in the year.
SEVENDUST itself will begin writing its ninth studio effort this summer, with plans for an early 2013 release. SEVENDUST issued its most recent outing, "Cold Day Memory", in April 2010.
Lowery recently described the sound of CALL ME NO ONE as "kind of NINE INCH NAILS meets FOO FIGHTERS."
SEVENDUST guitarist John Connolly and bassist Vince Hornsby also recently launched a new project, joining forces with CREED/ALTER BRIDGE drummer Scott Phillips in a new outfit called PROJECTED.
PROJECTED has already entered the studio to begin recording its debut disc, to be made available later in the year.
SEVENDUST itself will begin writing its ninth studio effort this summer, with plans for an early 2013 release. SEVENDUST issued its most recent outing, "Cold Day Memory", in April 2010.
Multi-national thrashers NIGHTRAGE will film a video for an as-yet-undisclosed song off their latest album, "Insidious", on April 28 at the Eightball Club in Thessaloniki, Greece. Directing the clip will be Gabriel Psaltakis, who helmed the latest PSYCHO CHOKE video, "Get Down".
NIGHTRAGE's fifth album, "Insidious", was released last September via Lifeforce Records. The CD featured guest appearances by Gus G. (OZZY OSBOURNE, FIREWIND), Tomas S. Englund (EVERGREY), Apollo Papathanasio (FIREWIND, SPIRITUAL BEGGARS), John K (BIOMECHANICAL) and the band's former frontman Tomas Lindberg (also known for his work with AT THE GATES, THE CROWN and LOCK UP). Lindberg appeared on the band's first two albums — 2003's "Sweet Vengeance" and 2005's "Descent Into Chaos" — before being replaced by Jimmie Strimell, who sang on 2007's "A New Disease Is Born".
The "Insidious" cover art was created by Gustavo Sazes (MORBID ANGEL, ARCH ENEMY, FIREWIND, SONIC SYNDICATE, GOD FORBID) of Abstrata Art.
NIGHTRAGE is:
Antony Hämäläinen - Vocals
Marios Iliopoulos - Guitar
Olof Mörck - Guitar
Anders Hammer - Bass
Johan Nunez - Drums
NIGHTRAGE's fifth album, "Insidious", was released last September via Lifeforce Records. The CD featured guest appearances by Gus G. (OZZY OSBOURNE, FIREWIND), Tomas S. Englund (EVERGREY), Apollo Papathanasio (FIREWIND, SPIRITUAL BEGGARS), John K (BIOMECHANICAL) and the band's former frontman Tomas Lindberg (also known for his work with AT THE GATES, THE CROWN and LOCK UP). Lindberg appeared on the band's first two albums — 2003's "Sweet Vengeance" and 2005's "Descent Into Chaos" — before being replaced by Jimmie Strimell, who sang on 2007's "A New Disease Is Born".
The "Insidious" cover art was created by Gustavo Sazes (MORBID ANGEL, ARCH ENEMY, FIREWIND, SONIC SYNDICATE, GOD FORBID) of Abstrata Art.
NIGHTRAGE is:
Antony Hämäläinen - Vocals
Marios Iliopoulos - Guitar
Olof Mörck - Guitar
Anders Hammer - Bass
Johan Nunez - Drums
NEUROSIS, which is cited as one of the most influential bands of heavy music's experimental underworld, has finished mixing its long-awaited new studio album. The follow-up to 2007's "Given To The Rising" was recorded last November and is due out before the end of the year.
NEUROSIS released a live album, "Live At Roadburn 2007", in August 2010 via Neurot Recordings. The CD was recorded in 2007 in Tilburg, Holland, at the annual Roadburn festival where NEUROSIS headlined to a diehard audience.
"Live At Roadburn" was made available alongside the reissue of NEUROSIS' groundbreaking 1993 release "Enemy Of The Sun". The "Roadburn" album featured the iconic artwork/layout skills of visionary artist/NEUROSIS live visual master Josh Graham, also responsible for the redesigned "Enemy Of The Sun" layout. Both albums were released on CD as part of the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the legendary act.
NEUROSIS released a live album, "Live At Roadburn 2007", in August 2010 via Neurot Recordings. The CD was recorded in 2007 in Tilburg, Holland, at the annual Roadburn festival where NEUROSIS headlined to a diehard audience.
"Live At Roadburn" was made available alongside the reissue of NEUROSIS' groundbreaking 1993 release "Enemy Of The Sun". The "Roadburn" album featured the iconic artwork/layout skills of visionary artist/NEUROSIS live visual master Josh Graham, also responsible for the redesigned "Enemy Of The Sun" layout. Both albums were released on CD as part of the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the legendary act.
Fresh off the road from a successful European tour to celebrate their 20th anniversary of the 1992 release of "Strength In Numbers", heavy metal funk/soul pioneers 24-7 SPYZ — featuring the CD's original lineup, Jimi Hazel (guitar and vocals), Rick Skatore (bass and vocals), Jeff Brodnax (vocals), and Joel Maitoza (drums) — are planning to enter the studio shortly to cut some new material.
In addition, during the recent European tour, the band was featured on the popular radio/television show "Freaknacht" on the 3FM network in Holland on March 3. A video clip from the show featuring the band's classic track "Grandma Dynamite" from the 1989 album "Harder Than You" can be seen below.
24-7 SPYZ came onto the funk-rock scene in 1989 with its debut album titled "Harder Than You", followed by "Gumbo Millennium" in 1990 (both on In-Effect/Relativity Records). The band then released a five-song EP titled "This Is… 24-7 Spyz" in 1991 after signing with Eastwest/Atlantic Records with the full-length release in 1992, "Strength In Numbers", which included the single "Stuntman" that was featured in a Budweiser television commercial as well as an episode of "Beavis and Butthead". 1995 brought the original lineup back together for the release of "Temporarily Disconnected" (Enemy Records) which, after a short tour, drummer Joel Maitoza reunited with Jimi Hazel and Rick Skatore to record the CDs "6" (Enemy Records) and "Heavy Metal Soul By The Pound" (released in the U.S. on the What Are Records? label) in 1996. A live EP titled "If I Could" was released in 1997 also with the three-piece lineup. Most recently, the band has been promoting their CD "Face The Day" which was released in 2006. A new full-length release from the band is scheduled for 2012.
In addition, during the recent European tour, the band was featured on the popular radio/television show "Freaknacht" on the 3FM network in Holland on March 3. A video clip from the show featuring the band's classic track "Grandma Dynamite" from the 1989 album "Harder Than You" can be seen below.
24-7 SPYZ came onto the funk-rock scene in 1989 with its debut album titled "Harder Than You", followed by "Gumbo Millennium" in 1990 (both on In-Effect/Relativity Records). The band then released a five-song EP titled "This Is… 24-7 Spyz" in 1991 after signing with Eastwest/Atlantic Records with the full-length release in 1992, "Strength In Numbers", which included the single "Stuntman" that was featured in a Budweiser television commercial as well as an episode of "Beavis and Butthead". 1995 brought the original lineup back together for the release of "Temporarily Disconnected" (Enemy Records) which, after a short tour, drummer Joel Maitoza reunited with Jimi Hazel and Rick Skatore to record the CDs "6" (Enemy Records) and "Heavy Metal Soul By The Pound" (released in the U.S. on the What Are Records? label) in 1996. A live EP titled "If I Could" was released in 1997 also with the three-piece lineup. Most recently, the band has been promoting their CD "Face The Day" which was released in 2006. A new full-length release from the band is scheduled for 2012.
os Angeles-based rock trio SMILE EMPTY SOUL has revealed the album cover and track listing for its upcoming album, "3's", due on May 22 via eOne Music.
"I think we put more thought into this album cover than ever before. There's a ton of symbolism going on, and the whole package this time really means a lot to us," says guitarst and lead singer Sean Danielson.
He continues, "'3's' is the best record we've made. It's more musical and mature, yet still has the 'SMILE' sound that our fans are looking for."
"3's" track listing:
01. Carve
02. Ugly
03. Warning
04. Sleep Deprivation
05. Hiding Place
06. Let Go
07. Basement
08. Afterlife
09. Greatest Hits and Medleys
10. Hard Biter
11. Wrecking Ball
12. Not Alike
Formed in 1998, SMILE EMPTY SOUL has certainly seen the inside of the music business. With a Top 10 hit single, "Bottom Of A Bottle", countless tours and a gold-certified album under their belts, the band shows no signs of stopping now.
SMILE EMPTY SOUL is:
Sean Danielsen (lead vocals, guitar)
Ryan Martin (bass)
Jake Kilmer (drums, backing vocals)
"I think we put more thought into this album cover than ever before. There's a ton of symbolism going on, and the whole package this time really means a lot to us," says guitarst and lead singer Sean Danielson.
He continues, "'3's' is the best record we've made. It's more musical and mature, yet still has the 'SMILE' sound that our fans are looking for."
"3's" track listing:
01. Carve
02. Ugly
03. Warning
04. Sleep Deprivation
05. Hiding Place
06. Let Go
07. Basement
08. Afterlife
09. Greatest Hits and Medleys
10. Hard Biter
11. Wrecking Ball
12. Not Alike
Formed in 1998, SMILE EMPTY SOUL has certainly seen the inside of the music business. With a Top 10 hit single, "Bottom Of A Bottle", countless tours and a gold-certified album under their belts, the band shows no signs of stopping now.
SMILE EMPTY SOUL is:
Sean Danielsen (lead vocals, guitar)
Ryan Martin (bass)
Jake Kilmer (drums, backing vocals)
The new lineup of HATEFX, the Fresno, California-based metal band featuring guitarist Glen Alvelais (FORBIDDEN, TESTAMENT, LD/50), will make its live debut on April 21 at Fulton 55 in Fresno, California as part of the third anniversary of the popular "Dirty Dowdy" podcast with fellow local acts GROOVEYARD, SPACEHOOKER, FROM THE FALLEN and SIX DAY TRUCE. Free ticket giveaways will be made available via 104.1 New Rock radio station and the "Dirty Dowdy" podcast. HATEFX will be playing new material at this event.
A teaser video featuring audio of a new song can be seen below.
Alvelais brings years of experience to the up-and-coming metal heavy hitters, who encompass a distinctive approach to metal, adding sonic textures to their mix and a light/FX-filled live show. They have become one of the strongest Central Valley outfits, having previously shared the stage with such national acts as EXODUS, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH and STATIC-X, among others.
Commented Alvelais: "It started when I was asked to record a solo for a new [HATEFX] recording that they are working on and I loved the song and the solo so much that when I was done, I called G (HATEFX singer/guitarist) and curiously asked how they planned to pull off this song live. I was hoping he would ask if I would like to come to one of their shows and have the chance to jam with them on stage. But much to my surprise, he answered back saying that they were actually looking for another guitarist to handle the solos."
He continued, "I had seen HATEFX a handful of times and know that they not only sound great live but they really put on a hell of a show. We had the opportunity to play a couple of shows together in 2010 and 2011 while playing out with LD/50, and I distinctly remember hearing them play from back stage and being drawn in by their sound and ended up watching their show till the end."
HATEFX's Chilean frontman G, who was previously a member of DOGMA, stated: "We are glad to have Glen as part of the team. His style and solid guitar work has inspired us to take our music to a new level. We have a number of surprises in store for our new material… Stay tuned!"
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/hatefx.
A teaser video featuring audio of a new song can be seen below.
Alvelais brings years of experience to the up-and-coming metal heavy hitters, who encompass a distinctive approach to metal, adding sonic textures to their mix and a light/FX-filled live show. They have become one of the strongest Central Valley outfits, having previously shared the stage with such national acts as EXODUS, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH and STATIC-X, among others.
Commented Alvelais: "It started when I was asked to record a solo for a new [HATEFX] recording that they are working on and I loved the song and the solo so much that when I was done, I called G (HATEFX singer/guitarist) and curiously asked how they planned to pull off this song live. I was hoping he would ask if I would like to come to one of their shows and have the chance to jam with them on stage. But much to my surprise, he answered back saying that they were actually looking for another guitarist to handle the solos."
He continued, "I had seen HATEFX a handful of times and know that they not only sound great live but they really put on a hell of a show. We had the opportunity to play a couple of shows together in 2010 and 2011 while playing out with LD/50, and I distinctly remember hearing them play from back stage and being drawn in by their sound and ended up watching their show till the end."
HATEFX's Chilean frontman G, who was previously a member of DOGMA, stated: "We are glad to have Glen as part of the team. His style and solid guitar work has inspired us to take our music to a new level. We have a number of surprises in store for our new material… Stay tuned!"
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/hatefx.
DEATH WOLF (formerly DEVILS WHOREHOUSE), the "horror-death rock" side-project of MARDUK guitarist Morgan Håkansson, has entered Endarker Studio in Östergötland, Sweden to begin recording its as-yet-untitled second album for a late summer release via Blooddawn Productions/Century Media.
DEATH WOLF's self-titled new album was released in May 2011 via Regain Records/Blooddawn.
DEVILS WHOREHOUSE changed its name to DEATH WOLF (symbolizing the strength, dedication and will shown in its creations) because "the music and philosophy behind the orchestra has outgrown its name," according to a press release.
DEATH WOLF made its live debut in June 2011 at the Wave Gotik Treffen festival in Leipzig, Germany.
Formed in 2000, DEVILS WHOREHOUSE's sophomore CD, "Blood & Ashes", came out in May 2009.
After a lengthy hiatus, DEVILS WHOREHOUSE, returned in 2008 with the release of an EP titled "Werewolf". The effort was made available in three different formats — CD, 7" and 12" picture disc.
DEATH WOLF is:
Morgan - Bass
Makko - Guitar
Maelstrom - Vocals
Hrafn - Drums
For more information, visit www.deathwolf.net.
DEATH WOLF's self-titled new album was released in May 2011 via Regain Records/Blooddawn.
DEVILS WHOREHOUSE changed its name to DEATH WOLF (symbolizing the strength, dedication and will shown in its creations) because "the music and philosophy behind the orchestra has outgrown its name," according to a press release.
DEATH WOLF made its live debut in June 2011 at the Wave Gotik Treffen festival in Leipzig, Germany.
Formed in 2000, DEVILS WHOREHOUSE's sophomore CD, "Blood & Ashes", came out in May 2009.
After a lengthy hiatus, DEVILS WHOREHOUSE, returned in 2008 with the release of an EP titled "Werewolf". The effort was made available in three different formats — CD, 7" and 12" picture disc.
DEATH WOLF is:
Morgan - Bass
Makko - Guitar
Maelstrom - Vocals
Hrafn - Drums
For more information, visit www.deathwolf.net.
Miami, Florida's THICK AS BLOOD has inked a deal with Rise Records. The band has entered The Sunset Lodge Studios in Silverlake, California with producer Nick Jett (TERROR) to begin recording its third album for a late 2012 release.
A demo version of a new THICK AS BLOOD song called "Unruly" can be streamed in the YouTube clip below.
THICK AS BLOOD merges hardcore and metal influences with crushing riffs and brutally honest lyrics. They have been building a loyal following since 2004 with two Eulogy releases (2007's "Moment of Truth" and 2009's "Embrace") along with their hard-hitting live show. Having toured with such bands as EVERY TIME I DIE, EMMURE and TERROR on more than four continents and in 13 countries, THICK AS BLOOD is a force to be reckoned with.
THICK AS BLOOD will launch a tour around the release of the new record later this year.
THICK AS BLOOD is:
Gino Vento - Vocals
Randy Gonzalez - Guitar
Heavy Jerry - Guitar
Brandon Stastny – Bass
A demo version of a new THICK AS BLOOD song called "Unruly" can be streamed in the YouTube clip below.
THICK AS BLOOD merges hardcore and metal influences with crushing riffs and brutally honest lyrics. They have been building a loyal following since 2004 with two Eulogy releases (2007's "Moment of Truth" and 2009's "Embrace") along with their hard-hitting live show. Having toured with such bands as EVERY TIME I DIE, EMMURE and TERROR on more than four continents and in 13 countries, THICK AS BLOOD is a force to be reckoned with.
THICK AS BLOOD will launch a tour around the release of the new record later this year.
THICK AS BLOOD is:
Gino Vento - Vocals
Randy Gonzalez - Guitar
Heavy Jerry - Guitar
Brandon Stastny – Bass
Finnish melodic death metallers PAIN CONFESSOR have inked a deal with Spinefarm Records. The band will enter the studio this summer to record its fourth album for a late 2012 release.
Commented PAIN CONFESSOR: "'Three down, fourth to go.' Finally, someone utters. But what's the deal with the new full length? We are rowing a truly grim river. The renewed lineup boasts with vigor to go through a stone wall, the material heavy as a murderer's burden. Is it better than 'Turmoil'? No, it is a completely different record and stands on its own upon fresh soil. The crew's newest inmates bring along a whole new bag of tricks with which to drill deeper into the hidden reaches of human mind with newborn fervor."
PAIN CONFESSOR is:
Make Kivistö - Vocals
Mikko Kivistö - Bass
Pasi Laihanen - Keyboards
Jaakko Kunnas - Guitar
Tuomas Kuusinen - Guitar
Aki Kuusinen - Drums
PAIN CONFESSOR's third album, "Purgatory Of The Second Sun", entered the Finnish chart at position No. 15 back in March 2007. The CD was recorded at Fantom studio and was previously described by the band as "raw and furious."
PAIN CONFESSOR's "Ne Plus Ultra" single entered the Finnish national chart at position No. 1. In addition to the title cut, the single included a cover of SURVIVOR's "Eye of the Tiger", which had "gone through a serious metal facelift," according to the group.
Commented PAIN CONFESSOR: "'Three down, fourth to go.' Finally, someone utters. But what's the deal with the new full length? We are rowing a truly grim river. The renewed lineup boasts with vigor to go through a stone wall, the material heavy as a murderer's burden. Is it better than 'Turmoil'? No, it is a completely different record and stands on its own upon fresh soil. The crew's newest inmates bring along a whole new bag of tricks with which to drill deeper into the hidden reaches of human mind with newborn fervor."
PAIN CONFESSOR is:
Make Kivistö - Vocals
Mikko Kivistö - Bass
Pasi Laihanen - Keyboards
Jaakko Kunnas - Guitar
Tuomas Kuusinen - Guitar
Aki Kuusinen - Drums
PAIN CONFESSOR's third album, "Purgatory Of The Second Sun", entered the Finnish chart at position No. 15 back in March 2007. The CD was recorded at Fantom studio and was previously described by the band as "raw and furious."
PAIN CONFESSOR's "Ne Plus Ultra" single entered the Finnish national chart at position No. 1. In addition to the title cut, the single included a cover of SURVIVOR's "Eye of the Tiger", which had "gone through a serious metal facelift," according to the group.
Gothenburg, Sweden's RUINED SOUL, which was started by Johnny Johansson a one-man metal project due to Johnny's focus on DISDAIN, has evolved into a full-blown band.
Commented Johnny: "Yes, RUINED SOUL was supposed to be a solo project, but… no more! The urge of playing these songs live and spending more time on RUINED SOUL has grown since day one. I really feel that it's time to get this machine started. I can't wait to get this machine going and get out there and play for you guys! The guys that complete the band are the right guys to play with, so I'm pretty excited."
RUINED SOUL lineup (right to left in photo below):
* Johnny Johansson (DISDAIN) – Guitars
* Jonathan Thorpenberg (TRENCHES) – Guitar
* Janne Jaloma (DEALS DEATH) – Drums
* Patrik Johansson (ARISE) – Vocals
A bass player for the group has not yet been chosen.
RUINED SOUL filmed a video for the song "Rewind" on March 16 with Greenworks. The track comes off the band's debut album, "My Dying Day", which was released in 2010 via Suicide Records.
Greenworks previously helmed RUINED SOUL's music video for the track "My Dying Day".
"My Dying Day" features guest appearances by the following musicians:
* Jonas Kjellgren (SCAR SYMMETRY)
* Matias Kupiainen (STRATOVARIUS)
* Niklas Stålvind (WOLF)
* Olof Mörck (NIGHTRAGE)
* Eric Rauti (DREAMLAND)
* Marios Iliopoulos (NIGHTRAGE)
* Benny Jansson (RIDE THE SKY)
* Jonas Hörnqvist (TREASURE LAND)
* Tobias Jansson (THE LAW)
* Patrik Johansson (ARISE)
* Peter Huss (SHINING)
* Janne Stark (CONSTANCIA)
Johnny has already written 10 songs for RUINED SOUL's as-yet-untitled forthcoming sophomore album. The CD, which is expected to be recorded later in the year, will feature guest appearances by the following musicians:
* Patrik Johansson (ARISE)
* Christofer Malmström (DARKANE)
* Carl Johan Grimmark (NARNIA, ROB ROCK)
* Eric Rauti (DREAMLAND, TORCH)
* Jonas Jarlsby (AVATAR)
* Simon Andersson (ex-AVATAR)
* David Sücz (DEGRADEAD)
* Anders Nyström (DEGRADEAD)
* Jake Fredén (NOSTRADAMEUS)
Commented Johnny: "Yes, RUINED SOUL was supposed to be a solo project, but… no more! The urge of playing these songs live and spending more time on RUINED SOUL has grown since day one. I really feel that it's time to get this machine started. I can't wait to get this machine going and get out there and play for you guys! The guys that complete the band are the right guys to play with, so I'm pretty excited."
RUINED SOUL lineup (right to left in photo below):
* Johnny Johansson (DISDAIN) – Guitars
* Jonathan Thorpenberg (TRENCHES) – Guitar
* Janne Jaloma (DEALS DEATH) – Drums
* Patrik Johansson (ARISE) – Vocals
A bass player for the group has not yet been chosen.
RUINED SOUL filmed a video for the song "Rewind" on March 16 with Greenworks. The track comes off the band's debut album, "My Dying Day", which was released in 2010 via Suicide Records.
Greenworks previously helmed RUINED SOUL's music video for the track "My Dying Day".
"My Dying Day" features guest appearances by the following musicians:
* Jonas Kjellgren (SCAR SYMMETRY)
* Matias Kupiainen (STRATOVARIUS)
* Niklas Stålvind (WOLF)
* Olof Mörck (NIGHTRAGE)
* Eric Rauti (DREAMLAND)
* Marios Iliopoulos (NIGHTRAGE)
* Benny Jansson (RIDE THE SKY)
* Jonas Hörnqvist (TREASURE LAND)
* Tobias Jansson (THE LAW)
* Patrik Johansson (ARISE)
* Peter Huss (SHINING)
* Janne Stark (CONSTANCIA)
Johnny has already written 10 songs for RUINED SOUL's as-yet-untitled forthcoming sophomore album. The CD, which is expected to be recorded later in the year, will feature guest appearances by the following musicians:
* Patrik Johansson (ARISE)
* Christofer Malmström (DARKANE)
* Carl Johan Grimmark (NARNIA, ROB ROCK)
* Eric Rauti (DREAMLAND, TORCH)
* Jonas Jarlsby (AVATAR)
* Simon Andersson (ex-AVATAR)
* David Sücz (DEGRADEAD)
* Anders Nyström (DEGRADEAD)
* Jake Fredén (NOSTRADAMEUS)
Spanish death metallers AVULSED have parted ways with drummer Ricardo "Riky" Mena.
Commented the group in a statement: "We're sorry to communicate you that since last 20th of March, Ricardo Mena (Riky) is no longer the band's drummer. Due to differences on how to deal with different internal issues within the band, we've decided, after a reunion, that the best thing for both parts is not to continue together. No hard feelings, beyond the sadness that all this means for us all.
"Due to this, we must announce the cancellation of the performance on the two upcoming festivals in April where AVULSED was going to participate: Thrashway Fest (Oviedo) and Barroselas SWR Fest (Portugal). However, there's a possibility that the last show with the current line-up with Riky might happen at Hellfest in France.
"We just want to thank Riky for his eight years of total devotion and profesionalism as a musician and his friendship, that we'll keep, of course. And to wish him the best both on personal and professional on musical matters."
AVULSED last year scrapped plans to release a 20th-anniversary CD, "Fleshcube", due to "several problems regarding the recording sessions that delayed the whole project, to the point that it was going to be impossible to release it [in 2011], so… who knows, perhaps for our 25th anniversary!!" However, this cancellation was taken in a positive way, because this helped the band concentrate on the songwriting of their upcoming album, "Ritual Zombi", to be recorded later this year.
Commented the group in a statement: "We're sorry to communicate you that since last 20th of March, Ricardo Mena (Riky) is no longer the band's drummer. Due to differences on how to deal with different internal issues within the band, we've decided, after a reunion, that the best thing for both parts is not to continue together. No hard feelings, beyond the sadness that all this means for us all.
"Due to this, we must announce the cancellation of the performance on the two upcoming festivals in April where AVULSED was going to participate: Thrashway Fest (Oviedo) and Barroselas SWR Fest (Portugal). However, there's a possibility that the last show with the current line-up with Riky might happen at Hellfest in France.
"We just want to thank Riky for his eight years of total devotion and profesionalism as a musician and his friendship, that we'll keep, of course. And to wish him the best both on personal and professional on musical matters."
AVULSED last year scrapped plans to release a 20th-anniversary CD, "Fleshcube", due to "several problems regarding the recording sessions that delayed the whole project, to the point that it was going to be impossible to release it [in 2011], so… who knows, perhaps for our 25th anniversary!!" However, this cancellation was taken in a positive way, because this helped the band concentrate on the songwriting of their upcoming album, "Ritual Zombi", to be recorded later this year.
San Francisco Bay Area technical death metallers INANIMATE EXISTENCE have inked a multi-album deal with Unique Leader Records. The band's debut CD, "Liberation Through Hearing", will be released this summer.
According to a press release, INANIMATE EXISTENCE "brings an onslaught of crushing, true death metal, while pushing the musical envelope with their other-wordly compositions and painstaking writing."
Commented the band: "We are honored to be joining the ranks of death metal titans like SPAWN OF POSSESSION, DEEDS OF FLESH, VILE, DISGORGE, and more. Much of our influence is drawn from the roots of brutal death metal spawned from Unique Leader, and we are extremely excited to be able to share our work with the world alongside it and everybody else on the label. Expect no less than the absolute pinnacle of creative and brutal technicality on our debut release, and even more to come."
INANIMATE EXISTENCE is:
Cameron Porras - Vocals
Joel Guernsey - Guitar
Ian Rittmaster - Guitar
Mitch Yoesle - Bass
Ron Casey – Drums
According to a press release, INANIMATE EXISTENCE "brings an onslaught of crushing, true death metal, while pushing the musical envelope with their other-wordly compositions and painstaking writing."
Commented the band: "We are honored to be joining the ranks of death metal titans like SPAWN OF POSSESSION, DEEDS OF FLESH, VILE, DISGORGE, and more. Much of our influence is drawn from the roots of brutal death metal spawned from Unique Leader, and we are extremely excited to be able to share our work with the world alongside it and everybody else on the label. Expect no less than the absolute pinnacle of creative and brutal technicality on our debut release, and even more to come."
INANIMATE EXISTENCE is:
Cameron Porras - Vocals
Joel Guernsey - Guitar
Ian Rittmaster - Guitar
Mitch Yoesle - Bass
Ron Casey – Drums
Mark Holmes of Metal Discovery conducted an interview with guitarist Josh Elmore of San Diego extreme metallers CATTLE DECAPITATION before the band's March 15 concert in Liverpool, England. A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.
Metal Discovery: It's been three years since "The Harvest Floor" was released but I gather you've just finished recording a new album?
Josh: Yeah, we finished mid-February and it should be out… don't quote me on this… but we're kind of thinking May 8th. But then we're told May 22nd maybe…so a Tuesday in May shall we say! [laughs] I'm thinking the 8th though which is actually a month before we thought it was gonna come out so it's all good.
Metal Discovery: So what themes are being dealt with this time, lyrically?
Josh: Erm… if you can believe this, more hating on people…
Metal Discovery: [Sarcastically] Really?! [laughs]
Josh: I know, it comes as a shock! I think Travis [Ryan] has kind of taken this whole… like on a couple of the other albums, he touched on the Earth is like this giant landfill sort of thing and humans are not caretakers but exacerbating that condition. He's kind of taking that to… I don't want to say conclusion because I'm sure he can pull more things out of that but the album is seemingly more themed towards that whereas in the past there were a couple of songs that had elements of that, lyrically. This time, especially the cover art, which you'll see soon, ties everything together, all the lyrical concepts. It's very much like earth is like a big… dump! [laughs]
Metal Discovery: You did an interview with another Metal Discovery journo actually, a couple of years ago, and if I can quote you: "I think everyone has this ideal in our heads as to what we want to do and we keep trying to chip away to get closer to it. I don't think we're there yet but we're getting closer." Is the new material another step closer towards that, would you say?
Josh: Oh yeah, definitely, I would say so. I don't think anyone can ever reach their ideal but as long as you can get one step closer each time, I think you can be happy with that. With this record I definitely feel, and I'm sure the rest of 'em would agree, we're all really happy with it. And it comes as close, with where our heads are at now, as close as what we'd ideally like it to be as possible. So we're happy with it. . . It just seems more realized and developed. I mean, I liked "The Harvest Floor", too, and I like "Humanure", which a lot of people didn't really care for that one but, you know, it's all…
Metal Discovery: …it's all subjective.
Josh: Yeah.
Metal Discovery: You worked with Billy Anderson as producer on the last couple of albums but you opted for Dave Otero this time around…
Josh: Correct.
Metal Discovery: Why did you decide it was time for a change?
Josh: I think it was more that than anything, that it was time for a change. There's nothing wrong with Billy. We love Billy; Billy's fantastic… a great producer, engineer and he has a very good vision for what he wants out of recordings and stuff like that. But we were discussing things and there are certain elements that we wanted… we talked to Billy, too, about this so it wasn't just like leaving him in the dark, but we talked about things we wanted out of this recording and then talked amongst ourselves. We were then thinking, no offense to Billy but… [laughs]… just to try something different.
Metal Discovery: Yeah, yeah, as a lot of bands do.
Josh: Not degrading Billy's work, or efforts, or anything he's done with us, you know, he's obviously a fantastic talent but we decided to try something different.
Metal Discovery: It's been three years since "The Harvest Floor" was released but I gather you've just finished recording a new album?
Josh: Yeah, we finished mid-February and it should be out… don't quote me on this… but we're kind of thinking May 8th. But then we're told May 22nd maybe…so a Tuesday in May shall we say! [laughs] I'm thinking the 8th though which is actually a month before we thought it was gonna come out so it's all good.
Metal Discovery: So what themes are being dealt with this time, lyrically?
Josh: Erm… if you can believe this, more hating on people…
Metal Discovery: [Sarcastically] Really?! [laughs]
Josh: I know, it comes as a shock! I think Travis [Ryan] has kind of taken this whole… like on a couple of the other albums, he touched on the Earth is like this giant landfill sort of thing and humans are not caretakers but exacerbating that condition. He's kind of taking that to… I don't want to say conclusion because I'm sure he can pull more things out of that but the album is seemingly more themed towards that whereas in the past there were a couple of songs that had elements of that, lyrically. This time, especially the cover art, which you'll see soon, ties everything together, all the lyrical concepts. It's very much like earth is like a big… dump! [laughs]
Metal Discovery: You did an interview with another Metal Discovery journo actually, a couple of years ago, and if I can quote you: "I think everyone has this ideal in our heads as to what we want to do and we keep trying to chip away to get closer to it. I don't think we're there yet but we're getting closer." Is the new material another step closer towards that, would you say?
Josh: Oh yeah, definitely, I would say so. I don't think anyone can ever reach their ideal but as long as you can get one step closer each time, I think you can be happy with that. With this record I definitely feel, and I'm sure the rest of 'em would agree, we're all really happy with it. And it comes as close, with where our heads are at now, as close as what we'd ideally like it to be as possible. So we're happy with it. . . It just seems more realized and developed. I mean, I liked "The Harvest Floor", too, and I like "Humanure", which a lot of people didn't really care for that one but, you know, it's all…
Metal Discovery: …it's all subjective.
Josh: Yeah.
Metal Discovery: You worked with Billy Anderson as producer on the last couple of albums but you opted for Dave Otero this time around…
Josh: Correct.
Metal Discovery: Why did you decide it was time for a change?
Josh: I think it was more that than anything, that it was time for a change. There's nothing wrong with Billy. We love Billy; Billy's fantastic… a great producer, engineer and he has a very good vision for what he wants out of recordings and stuff like that. But we were discussing things and there are certain elements that we wanted… we talked to Billy, too, about this so it wasn't just like leaving him in the dark, but we talked about things we wanted out of this recording and then talked amongst ourselves. We were then thinking, no offense to Billy but… [laughs]… just to try something different.
Metal Discovery: Yeah, yeah, as a lot of bands do.
Josh: Not degrading Billy's work, or efforts, or anything he's done with us, you know, he's obviously a fantastic talent but we decided to try something different.
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