AEROSMITH began work on its first all-new album since 2001 last year, with the rest of the band working on music while singer Steven Tyler made his "American Idol" debut.
In an interview with Canadian radio station 97-5 K-Rock, AEROSMITH bassist Tom Hamilton revealed that the release date of the new CD has been pushed back to September. He also spoke about the way the band was portrayed during a segment that aired on the March 11 editiion of the "60 Minutes" CBS news magazine.
While admitting that he had, at times, been harsh and a bit of a taskmaster towards his bandmates, Tyler also told "60 Minutes" correspondent Lara Logan that he was the reason that AEROSMITH had been so successful all these years.
"I'm going to be big-headed right now, okay? I think my perfectionism and my bustin' everyone's chops is what got this band to where it is today. In the end, I get a real good song. In the end, I get the hits. Yeah, I'm that good," Tyler said.
When asked if he had watched the "60 Minutes" profile on AEROSMITH, Hamilton told 97-5 K-Rock, "I watched it with trepidation and quite a rapid heart rate. It was tough to watch. The way they formatted it was very much… They took comments that we made during very deep conversations, actually, that we had during the interview and sort of barraged Steven with them. I thought it was a little brutal the way that did it, but it was the truth — it was, really, everybody speaking what they were feeling. I cringed a little bit, because when we did these interviews, we talked about a lot of things involving anger yet a lot of other things involving love and brotherhood. And when they [edited the segment], they used whatever we said about Steven that was negative and just nailed him with it to get his reaction. So he got pissed off and said a couple of things that kind of were demeaning to the rest of us. Yet the second that it was over, I texted him and I said, 'Hey, you did a great job.' 'Cause I thought he was put in a position where he had to defend himself, and I thought he did it well."
He added, "When we did the interview — Joe [Perry, guitar], Brad [Whitford, guitar] and I — we were down in Bogota, Colombia, and Lara Logan, the correspondent, was down there, and when she came to do the interview, she had a very low-cut top on. I'm like, 'Okay, this is sort of, 'Get the band nervous with your cleavage and make them say stuff.'' And if you go and watch the interview, you won't see that. So I'm like, 'Ahh, that's how they do it.' They show their boobs and get you to talk about stuff. And then, there you are. . . It works very time."
AEROSMITH recently completed work on a reworked version of its 1991 outtake "Legendary Child" (originally written during the "Get A Grip" sessions) for inclusion in the upcoming summer film "GI Joe: Retaliation" (which arrives in theaters around the U.S. on June 29). The song is also expected to appear on AEROSMITH's long-awaited new studio CD.
In an interview with Canadian radio station 97-5 K-Rock, AEROSMITH bassist Tom Hamilton revealed that the release date of the new CD has been pushed back to September. He also spoke about the way the band was portrayed during a segment that aired on the March 11 editiion of the "60 Minutes" CBS news magazine.
While admitting that he had, at times, been harsh and a bit of a taskmaster towards his bandmates, Tyler also told "60 Minutes" correspondent Lara Logan that he was the reason that AEROSMITH had been so successful all these years.
"I'm going to be big-headed right now, okay? I think my perfectionism and my bustin' everyone's chops is what got this band to where it is today. In the end, I get a real good song. In the end, I get the hits. Yeah, I'm that good," Tyler said.
When asked if he had watched the "60 Minutes" profile on AEROSMITH, Hamilton told 97-5 K-Rock, "I watched it with trepidation and quite a rapid heart rate. It was tough to watch. The way they formatted it was very much… They took comments that we made during very deep conversations, actually, that we had during the interview and sort of barraged Steven with them. I thought it was a little brutal the way that did it, but it was the truth — it was, really, everybody speaking what they were feeling. I cringed a little bit, because when we did these interviews, we talked about a lot of things involving anger yet a lot of other things involving love and brotherhood. And when they [edited the segment], they used whatever we said about Steven that was negative and just nailed him with it to get his reaction. So he got pissed off and said a couple of things that kind of were demeaning to the rest of us. Yet the second that it was over, I texted him and I said, 'Hey, you did a great job.' 'Cause I thought he was put in a position where he had to defend himself, and I thought he did it well."
He added, "When we did the interview — Joe [Perry, guitar], Brad [Whitford, guitar] and I — we were down in Bogota, Colombia, and Lara Logan, the correspondent, was down there, and when she came to do the interview, she had a very low-cut top on. I'm like, 'Okay, this is sort of, 'Get the band nervous with your cleavage and make them say stuff.'' And if you go and watch the interview, you won't see that. So I'm like, 'Ahh, that's how they do it.' They show their boobs and get you to talk about stuff. And then, there you are. . . It works very time."
AEROSMITH recently completed work on a reworked version of its 1991 outtake "Legendary Child" (originally written during the "Get A Grip" sessions) for inclusion in the upcoming summer film "GI Joe: Retaliation" (which arrives in theaters around the U.S. on June 29). The song is also expected to appear on AEROSMITH's long-awaited new studio CD.
DEF LEPPARD guitarist Phil Collen will host today's edition of the "My Turn" radio show, which airs on the Los Angeles station KQLZ 100.3 FM, at 6:00 p.m. PST. Click hereto stream the program live via the Internet.
DEF LEPPARD will make a return to the United States this June with a massive summer tour which will include fellow rockers POISON and LITA FORD.
DEF LEPPARD's influential career includes numerous hit singles and ground-breaking multi-platinum albums — including two of the best-selling albums of all time, "Pyromania" and "Hysteria". Most recently, the band released their first live album, "Mirror Ball: Live & More" last summer, which rose to the Top 20 on The Billboard 200 chart. The album captures the group's legendary concert experience, bringing together live versions of classic LEPPARD hits such as "Rock Of Ages", "Pour Some Sugar on Me" and "Foolin'".
With 100 million records sold worldwide and two prestigious Diamond Awards to their credit, DEF LEPPARD — Joe Elliott (vocals), Vivian Campbell (guitar), Phil Collen (guitar), Rick "Sav" Savage (bass) and Rick Allen (drums) — continues to be one of the most important forces in rock music. Over the course of their career, the band has produced a series of classic groundbreaking albums that set the sound for generations of music fans and artists alike. The group's spectacular live shows, filled with powerful melodic rock anthems, have become synonymous with their name. For the past thirty years the band's concerts have become must-see events and have quickly made them an institution in the touring industry, as they continue to sell out arenas worldwide.
DEF LEPPARD will make a return to the United States this June with a massive summer tour which will include fellow rockers POISON and LITA FORD.
DEF LEPPARD's influential career includes numerous hit singles and ground-breaking multi-platinum albums — including two of the best-selling albums of all time, "Pyromania" and "Hysteria". Most recently, the band released their first live album, "Mirror Ball: Live & More" last summer, which rose to the Top 20 on The Billboard 200 chart. The album captures the group's legendary concert experience, bringing together live versions of classic LEPPARD hits such as "Rock Of Ages", "Pour Some Sugar on Me" and "Foolin'".
With 100 million records sold worldwide and two prestigious Diamond Awards to their credit, DEF LEPPARD — Joe Elliott (vocals), Vivian Campbell (guitar), Phil Collen (guitar), Rick "Sav" Savage (bass) and Rick Allen (drums) — continues to be one of the most important forces in rock music. Over the course of their career, the band has produced a series of classic groundbreaking albums that set the sound for generations of music fans and artists alike. The group's spectacular live shows, filled with powerful melodic rock anthems, have become synonymous with their name. For the past thirty years the band's concerts have become must-see events and have quickly made them an institution in the touring industry, as they continue to sell out arenas worldwide.
Former GUNS N' ROSES drummer Steven Adler spoke to Rolling Stone magazine about being inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame and the fact that the band's lead singer, Axl Rose, refused to be inducted along with the rest of the classic GN'R lineup.
Said Adler: "It was the greatest way to end that chapter of my life. It couldn't have gone better. It ended that chapter of my life great, and it's starting this new chapter of my life, with my new band, even bigger and better. It's very exciting. It's fucking exciting. Life is exciting again."
He added, I was hoping that the five of us would have been there to play and show our respect to the fans, but the three of us who really do care about what our fans think and how much they've done for us were there, and we showed our love and respect. In my thank-you speech, I ended it with the words of the late, great Freddie Mercury. 'I've taken my bows, my curtain calls, you've brought me fame and fortune and everything that goes with it, and I thank you all.' I think that says it. It couldn't have gone better. I showed my thanks and my love. Slash is really the main person from that band that is really super-duper…they're all important, but Slash is the most important, because we grew up together, we started the whole thing together, so it was really great ending that chapter with him."
When asked how if felt playing those songs with Slash and Duff McKagan again, Adler said, "It was great, and Myles Kennedy did a fabulous job…This is the only thing I'm going to say about Axl, and this is the last thing I'm ever going to say, ever, you're getting it, is I feel blessed and thankful that he was a part of my life for that chapter of my life, but that's it. That's it. I have no desire to know him or work with him or do anything with him again. Letting go of that was like a huge weight was lifted off my body. I feel fucking free. Yay!"
"If [the reunion] was going to happen, that's when it was going to happen, and in Axl's letter [declining ot be inducted], he showed his true colors to the world. After that, that's it. Like I said, the main person I wanted to end that chapter with, and I'm going to start a new chapter with, was Slash."
Said Adler: "It was the greatest way to end that chapter of my life. It couldn't have gone better. It ended that chapter of my life great, and it's starting this new chapter of my life, with my new band, even bigger and better. It's very exciting. It's fucking exciting. Life is exciting again."
He added, I was hoping that the five of us would have been there to play and show our respect to the fans, but the three of us who really do care about what our fans think and how much they've done for us were there, and we showed our love and respect. In my thank-you speech, I ended it with the words of the late, great Freddie Mercury. 'I've taken my bows, my curtain calls, you've brought me fame and fortune and everything that goes with it, and I thank you all.' I think that says it. It couldn't have gone better. I showed my thanks and my love. Slash is really the main person from that band that is really super-duper…they're all important, but Slash is the most important, because we grew up together, we started the whole thing together, so it was really great ending that chapter with him."
When asked how if felt playing those songs with Slash and Duff McKagan again, Adler said, "It was great, and Myles Kennedy did a fabulous job…This is the only thing I'm going to say about Axl, and this is the last thing I'm ever going to say, ever, you're getting it, is I feel blessed and thankful that he was a part of my life for that chapter of my life, but that's it. That's it. I have no desire to know him or work with him or do anything with him again. Letting go of that was like a huge weight was lifted off my body. I feel fucking free. Yay!"
"If [the reunion] was going to happen, that's when it was going to happen, and in Axl's letter [declining ot be inducted], he showed his true colors to the world. After that, that's it. Like I said, the main person I wanted to end that chapter with, and I'm going to start a new chapter with, was Slash."
John Parks of Legendary Rock Interviews recently conducted an interview with "Reckless Road: Guns N' Roses And The Making Of Appetite For Destruction" author Marc Canter.
Canter — an amateur photographer and owner of L.A.'s famed Canter's Deli — documents GUNS N' ROSES' early years via never-before-seen photos and lots of memorabilia.
Canter witnessed the creation of GUNS N' ROSES and photographed every gig the band played on the Sunset Strip. With nearly 1,000 never-before-seen photos, original gig memorabilia, hand-written song lyrics and and exclusive interviews with over 20 people, "Reckless Road" chronicles the formation of GUNS N' ROSES and the creation of their seminal groundbreaking album, "Appetite For Destruction".
A couple of excerpts from the Legendary Rock Interviews chat follow below.
Legendary Rock Interviews: Axl [Rose] is a talented singer but always has this reputation of being difficult. What were your impressions of him?
Marc: Axl is very headstrong and he knows what he wants; he always has. The first time I met him, the very first time was at a rehearsal and they were talking about the arrangements for "Anything Goes", and I remember making a comment about it and him just looking over at me, not knowing me at all and basically telling me it wasn't my business and he didn't need my opinion or something like that. I was like, "Oh, OK. That's cool. man, it was just a suggestion; you don't have to listen to me, it's cool." After that, we became really good friends and I never really had a problem with him. I've seen him be really frustrated at times with certain situations, but he never really took it out on me. I've seen him take it out on everyone else and he could be really controlling. For instance, when they did their first demo, one of the other members wanted to copy it and Axl was like, "I don't know about that" — like he really didn't want it getting around. He wanted to hoard it and listen to it and analyze it to make sure it was right. Axl is a perfectionist to the extreme; it had to be right or not at all. Somewhere along the line, he had to start eating some of that and realize he couldn't control everything. People would tape shows and he might forget a lyric or something and he ended up having to accept some of that on some level. Interestingly, they never argued amongst themselves or fought over how a song would be written, though; the songs always just happened and it wasn't any type of power struggle or control trip in that regard. A lot of the songs would start with some idea from Izzy [Stradlin, guitar], like "My Michelle" or "Nighttrain", and then Slash would come and punk it out or rock it up, like the spooky intro part of "Michelle" was total Izzy, but without Slash, we wouldn't have gotten the harder riff that followed it. Axl would hear these unfinished songs and just know exactly how to work within them. Duff [McKagan] and Steven [Adler] would then make the songs truly swing and really flesh them out with their ideas. You could say as some have that Axl was the most important, because he was the singer, but even then I don't think Axl would agree with that. If you took any one of those guys out of the equation, it would have drastically changed all of those songs. It was truly a democracy in the beginning. At that time, in 1985 or 1986, they were all on the exact same page.
Legendary Rock Interviews: They are one of those signature bands that really had five captivating personalities and styles to begin with.
Marc: Oh, totally. They were a rarity because it wasn't like one or three things working for them. Some bands, it's a great guitarist or a great singer or great drummer or songs or an amazing live show, but with GN'R, it was the whole package — the sum was greater than the individual parts. They had every element and it fit together like a puzzle. I noticed that the songwriting was so effortless and democratic and that's what seemed to change. They had a couple songs in 1988 for the "Lies" album, but I think that was when things started to change. It was harder to get music to come out of them and I think it was simply because they weren't living together like they were. Before that, they were all living together in this little storage space that they rehearsed in and their instruments were there and they were just naturally writing like musicians do. It was like, "Hey, check out this," and the other guy would be like, "Yeah, yeah, you have something but what about if we change this and add that," or say, "Well, here's a thing I'm working on we can put the two together." After 1987, they all had houses or at least apartments of their own and that dynamic changed because they all had their own little studios in their places and were writing and completing songs on their own. Then they'd submit the song to the rest of the band who couldn't really do as much with a fully written song as they could when they were working with bits and pieces.
Legendary Rock Interviews: They, of course, made the universe laugh by firing Steven for drugs, and I was just wondering what your opinion was on what he brought to the band or how the band changed after he left. Did he have a certain style that was hard to replace or replicate?
Marc: He did. He had something special and also, this is important, Duff and Izzy were also drummers and they could sort of see things from that drummer's perspective and really expand on it or in some cases even sit down and play a different part which Steven could then pick up and work from. That's not to say Steven didn't write his own stuff, because he absolutely did, but on a few occasions I did see those guys thinking from that beat perspective. Also, in an Alan Niven [former GUNS N' ROSES manager] interview, he said something that really made sense which was that Steven wasn't really fired for the drugs but more for the fact that the "Illusions" stuff was so much different and he wasn't really getting it. It was so 360 from the swing, groove stuff on "Appetite" and it required less rock and roll and more technical drumming which was more suited to a drummer like Matt Sorum. If you listen to a song like "Locomotive", it sort of makes sense what Niven was saying. It's almost got this unreal, machine type feel to it. Of course some of those songs like "Don't Cry" were older, and he could have easily performed those, but on many of those songs, especially Axl's ideas, the groove just changed and the songwriting was totally a different beast.
Canter — an amateur photographer and owner of L.A.'s famed Canter's Deli — documents GUNS N' ROSES' early years via never-before-seen photos and lots of memorabilia.
Canter witnessed the creation of GUNS N' ROSES and photographed every gig the band played on the Sunset Strip. With nearly 1,000 never-before-seen photos, original gig memorabilia, hand-written song lyrics and and exclusive interviews with over 20 people, "Reckless Road" chronicles the formation of GUNS N' ROSES and the creation of their seminal groundbreaking album, "Appetite For Destruction".
A couple of excerpts from the Legendary Rock Interviews chat follow below.
Legendary Rock Interviews: Axl [Rose] is a talented singer but always has this reputation of being difficult. What were your impressions of him?
Marc: Axl is very headstrong and he knows what he wants; he always has. The first time I met him, the very first time was at a rehearsal and they were talking about the arrangements for "Anything Goes", and I remember making a comment about it and him just looking over at me, not knowing me at all and basically telling me it wasn't my business and he didn't need my opinion or something like that. I was like, "Oh, OK. That's cool. man, it was just a suggestion; you don't have to listen to me, it's cool." After that, we became really good friends and I never really had a problem with him. I've seen him be really frustrated at times with certain situations, but he never really took it out on me. I've seen him take it out on everyone else and he could be really controlling. For instance, when they did their first demo, one of the other members wanted to copy it and Axl was like, "I don't know about that" — like he really didn't want it getting around. He wanted to hoard it and listen to it and analyze it to make sure it was right. Axl is a perfectionist to the extreme; it had to be right or not at all. Somewhere along the line, he had to start eating some of that and realize he couldn't control everything. People would tape shows and he might forget a lyric or something and he ended up having to accept some of that on some level. Interestingly, they never argued amongst themselves or fought over how a song would be written, though; the songs always just happened and it wasn't any type of power struggle or control trip in that regard. A lot of the songs would start with some idea from Izzy [Stradlin, guitar], like "My Michelle" or "Nighttrain", and then Slash would come and punk it out or rock it up, like the spooky intro part of "Michelle" was total Izzy, but without Slash, we wouldn't have gotten the harder riff that followed it. Axl would hear these unfinished songs and just know exactly how to work within them. Duff [McKagan] and Steven [Adler] would then make the songs truly swing and really flesh them out with their ideas. You could say as some have that Axl was the most important, because he was the singer, but even then I don't think Axl would agree with that. If you took any one of those guys out of the equation, it would have drastically changed all of those songs. It was truly a democracy in the beginning. At that time, in 1985 or 1986, they were all on the exact same page.
Legendary Rock Interviews: They are one of those signature bands that really had five captivating personalities and styles to begin with.
Marc: Oh, totally. They were a rarity because it wasn't like one or three things working for them. Some bands, it's a great guitarist or a great singer or great drummer or songs or an amazing live show, but with GN'R, it was the whole package — the sum was greater than the individual parts. They had every element and it fit together like a puzzle. I noticed that the songwriting was so effortless and democratic and that's what seemed to change. They had a couple songs in 1988 for the "Lies" album, but I think that was when things started to change. It was harder to get music to come out of them and I think it was simply because they weren't living together like they were. Before that, they were all living together in this little storage space that they rehearsed in and their instruments were there and they were just naturally writing like musicians do. It was like, "Hey, check out this," and the other guy would be like, "Yeah, yeah, you have something but what about if we change this and add that," or say, "Well, here's a thing I'm working on we can put the two together." After 1987, they all had houses or at least apartments of their own and that dynamic changed because they all had their own little studios in their places and were writing and completing songs on their own. Then they'd submit the song to the rest of the band who couldn't really do as much with a fully written song as they could when they were working with bits and pieces.
Legendary Rock Interviews: They, of course, made the universe laugh by firing Steven for drugs, and I was just wondering what your opinion was on what he brought to the band or how the band changed after he left. Did he have a certain style that was hard to replace or replicate?
Marc: He did. He had something special and also, this is important, Duff and Izzy were also drummers and they could sort of see things from that drummer's perspective and really expand on it or in some cases even sit down and play a different part which Steven could then pick up and work from. That's not to say Steven didn't write his own stuff, because he absolutely did, but on a few occasions I did see those guys thinking from that beat perspective. Also, in an Alan Niven [former GUNS N' ROSES manager] interview, he said something that really made sense which was that Steven wasn't really fired for the drugs but more for the fact that the "Illusions" stuff was so much different and he wasn't really getting it. It was so 360 from the swing, groove stuff on "Appetite" and it required less rock and roll and more technical drumming which was more suited to a drummer like Matt Sorum. If you listen to a song like "Locomotive", it sort of makes sense what Niven was saying. It's almost got this unreal, machine type feel to it. Of course some of those songs like "Don't Cry" were older, and he could have easily performed those, but on many of those songs, especially Axl's ideas, the groove just changed and the songwriting was totally a different beast.
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/reviewpics/recklessbook.jpg
According to Sweden's Aftonbladet newspaper, MOTÖRHEAD's signature wine made — which made its debut in Sweden in 2010 — has sold more than 250,000 bottles since it was launched.
The Australian Shiraz has been carefully selected by the hard rock legends and has been described as a wine with a fruity aroma, flavors of vanilla, blackberries, plums, eucalyptus and liquorice, but with soft rounded tannins. Or, as Lemmy Kilmister, lead singer, bass player and founder of the band, puts it: "My advice is — approach it with caution. I mean, wine is deceptive, anything can happen."
The wine, which should be served slightly cooler than usual around 16-18 degrees, goes well with lamb or beef dishes, as well as pasta and flavoursome cheeses. The band recommends drinking it with grilled lamp chops with garlic and rosemary, while listening to anything by MOTÖRHEAD, from 1980's "Ace Of Spades" to 2010's universally acclaimed "The Wörld Is Yours" — denim and leather optional.
The initiative for Motörhead Shiraz came from Bevarages Per Minute Sweden who contacted the band with the idea. Grapes Svenska AB was commissioned to produce it.
When asked how the idea for Motörhead Shiraz came about, Lemmy said in a recent interview, "Well, the company takes care of the business end and all I have to worry about is the quality. I am not going to sell shit to people, you know. We have a wine as well, that is very good. It was really simple how I got into it. This guy came up and said, 'You know, you could make money if we make this wine.' I said, 'Okay.' I think it is a California wine or it might be Spanish, I don't know. The vodka is Swedish."
For more information, please visit www.motorheadwine.com.
The Australian Shiraz has been carefully selected by the hard rock legends and has been described as a wine with a fruity aroma, flavors of vanilla, blackberries, plums, eucalyptus and liquorice, but with soft rounded tannins. Or, as Lemmy Kilmister, lead singer, bass player and founder of the band, puts it: "My advice is — approach it with caution. I mean, wine is deceptive, anything can happen."
The wine, which should be served slightly cooler than usual around 16-18 degrees, goes well with lamb or beef dishes, as well as pasta and flavoursome cheeses. The band recommends drinking it with grilled lamp chops with garlic and rosemary, while listening to anything by MOTÖRHEAD, from 1980's "Ace Of Spades" to 2010's universally acclaimed "The Wörld Is Yours" — denim and leather optional.
The initiative for Motörhead Shiraz came from Bevarages Per Minute Sweden who contacted the band with the idea. Grapes Svenska AB was commissioned to produce it.
When asked how the idea for Motörhead Shiraz came about, Lemmy said in a recent interview, "Well, the company takes care of the business end and all I have to worry about is the quality. I am not going to sell shit to people, you know. We have a wine as well, that is very good. It was really simple how I got into it. This guy came up and said, 'You know, you could make money if we make this wine.' I said, 'Okay.' I think it is a California wine or it might be Spanish, I don't know. The vodka is Swedish."
For more information, please visit www.motorheadwine.com.
Thirty years after its eponymous debut album, ASIA ascended to the top of the Billboard Top 100 chart (where it remained No. 1 for nine consecutive weeks), the legendary British classic rock band returns with a brand new studio album, a 30th-anniversary edition of their debut album, 2 DVDs, and a world tour that includes Europe, Japan and America.
ASIA will release its new studio album, "XXX" (pronounced Triple X) via Frontiers Records on June 29 in Europe and July 3 in North America. The new record, produced by Mike Paxman, which is being hailed as ASIA's best album since its classic early '80s releases, will be made available as a CD, collector's-edition CD/DVD (featuring new music videos and behind-the-scenes footage), and on vinyl (limited edition Europe only). Original artwork for "XXX" was created by Roger Dean.
The first single taken from the highly anticipated new album is entitled "Face On The Bridge", released worldwide on May 14. The official video for the song can be seen below.
"We're very pleased with, and confident about 'XXX'," says John Wetton. "It encapsulates, lyrically and instrumentally, the essence of ASIA today. However, it is the very same four people that gave you the original, iconic album 30 years ago. If you loved it then, you will love it now."
"We wanted to recapture the energy of the first album," adds ASIA's guitarist Steve Howe. "ASIA has always been about great songs, and fantastic musicianship. I'm sure fans of the first album will fall in love with 'XXX'."
"XXX" CD edition track listing:
01. Tomorrow The World (Wetton/Downes) (6:47)
02. Bury Me In Willow (Wetton/Downes) (6:01)
03. No Religion (Howe/Wetton/Downes) (6:36)
04. Faithful (Wetton/Downes) (5:37)
05. I Know How You Feel (Wetton/Downes) (4:53)
06. Face On The Bridge (Wetton/Downes) (5:59)
07. Al Gatto Nero (Wetton/Downes) (4:36)
08. Judas (Howe/Wetton/Downes) (4:43)
09. Ghost Of A Chance (Wetton/Downes) (4:21)
Total Time 49:41
"XXX" Special Edition 11-TRACK CD (+ Bonus DVD) - track listing:
01. Tomorrow The World (Wetton/Downes) (6:47)
02. Bury Me In Willow (Wetton/Downes) (6:01)
03. No Religion (Howe/Wetton/Downes) (6:36)
04. Faithful (Wetton/Downes) (5:37)
05. I Know How You Feel (Wetton/Downes) (4:53)
06. Face On The Bridge (Wetton/Downes) (5:59)
07. Al Gatto Nero (Wetton/Downes) (4:36)
08. Judas (Howe/Wetton/Downes) (4:43)
09. Reno (Silver and Gold) (Howe/Wetton) (5:15) (bonus track)
10. Ghost Of A Chance (Wetton/Downes) (4:21)
11. I Know How You Feel (Midnight Mix) (Wetton/Downes) (5:23) (bonus track)
Total Time: 60:20
Bonus DVD
01. Face On The Bridge (Music Video) (4:33)
02. Faithful (Music Video) (4:34)
03. The Making of XXX (Featurette) (20:33)
Total Time: 29:40
In addition, ASIA has also completed work on "Resonance", a DVD concert film of the group's 2010/2011 Omega World Tour, captured live in Switzerland. The effort will be released in the fall.
To celebrate its 30th anniversary, ASIA will release a collector's edition box set based on its legendary 1982 eponymous debut album, supported by a myriad of ASIA releases in 2012. The 30th-anniversary edition of the first LP will feature two audio CDs (a remastered edition of the debut album, plus a CD of live rare tracks), an expansive historical booklet, a limited edition ASIA T-shirt, goodies from ASIA's 1982 tour, plus a DVD of the new band documentary: "ASIA - 30 Years On". A newly commissioned painting by Roger Dean updates the symbolic dragon and pearl from 1982 to 2012, the Year of The Water Dragon (in the Chinese calendar).
ASIA is:
Geoff Downes - keyboards
Steve Howe - guitar
Carl Palmer - drums
John Wetton - bass and vocals
ASIA will release its new studio album, "XXX" (pronounced Triple X) via Frontiers Records on June 29 in Europe and July 3 in North America. The new record, produced by Mike Paxman, which is being hailed as ASIA's best album since its classic early '80s releases, will be made available as a CD, collector's-edition CD/DVD (featuring new music videos and behind-the-scenes footage), and on vinyl (limited edition Europe only). Original artwork for "XXX" was created by Roger Dean.
The first single taken from the highly anticipated new album is entitled "Face On The Bridge", released worldwide on May 14. The official video for the song can be seen below.
"We're very pleased with, and confident about 'XXX'," says John Wetton. "It encapsulates, lyrically and instrumentally, the essence of ASIA today. However, it is the very same four people that gave you the original, iconic album 30 years ago. If you loved it then, you will love it now."
"We wanted to recapture the energy of the first album," adds ASIA's guitarist Steve Howe. "ASIA has always been about great songs, and fantastic musicianship. I'm sure fans of the first album will fall in love with 'XXX'."
"XXX" CD edition track listing:
01. Tomorrow The World (Wetton/Downes) (6:47)
02. Bury Me In Willow (Wetton/Downes) (6:01)
03. No Religion (Howe/Wetton/Downes) (6:36)
04. Faithful (Wetton/Downes) (5:37)
05. I Know How You Feel (Wetton/Downes) (4:53)
06. Face On The Bridge (Wetton/Downes) (5:59)
07. Al Gatto Nero (Wetton/Downes) (4:36)
08. Judas (Howe/Wetton/Downes) (4:43)
09. Ghost Of A Chance (Wetton/Downes) (4:21)
Total Time 49:41
"XXX" Special Edition 11-TRACK CD (+ Bonus DVD) - track listing:
01. Tomorrow The World (Wetton/Downes) (6:47)
02. Bury Me In Willow (Wetton/Downes) (6:01)
03. No Religion (Howe/Wetton/Downes) (6:36)
04. Faithful (Wetton/Downes) (5:37)
05. I Know How You Feel (Wetton/Downes) (4:53)
06. Face On The Bridge (Wetton/Downes) (5:59)
07. Al Gatto Nero (Wetton/Downes) (4:36)
08. Judas (Howe/Wetton/Downes) (4:43)
09. Reno (Silver and Gold) (Howe/Wetton) (5:15) (bonus track)
10. Ghost Of A Chance (Wetton/Downes) (4:21)
11. I Know How You Feel (Midnight Mix) (Wetton/Downes) (5:23) (bonus track)
Total Time: 60:20
Bonus DVD
01. Face On The Bridge (Music Video) (4:33)
02. Faithful (Music Video) (4:34)
03. The Making of XXX (Featurette) (20:33)
Total Time: 29:40
In addition, ASIA has also completed work on "Resonance", a DVD concert film of the group's 2010/2011 Omega World Tour, captured live in Switzerland. The effort will be released in the fall.
To celebrate its 30th anniversary, ASIA will release a collector's edition box set based on its legendary 1982 eponymous debut album, supported by a myriad of ASIA releases in 2012. The 30th-anniversary edition of the first LP will feature two audio CDs (a remastered edition of the debut album, plus a CD of live rare tracks), an expansive historical booklet, a limited edition ASIA T-shirt, goodies from ASIA's 1982 tour, plus a DVD of the new band documentary: "ASIA - 30 Years On". A newly commissioned painting by Roger Dean updates the symbolic dragon and pearl from 1982 to 2012, the Year of The Water Dragon (in the Chinese calendar).
ASIA is:
Geoff Downes - keyboards
Steve Howe - guitar
Carl Palmer - drums
John Wetton - bass and vocals
On April 12, SLAYER guitarist Kerry King spoke to Loudwire about the progress of the songwriting and recording sessions for the band's next album, tentatively due later in the yaer. "We've only been working on it for a couple of weeks right now, since our producer from the last record [Greg Fidelman] had a small window and me and Dave [Lombardo, drums] are working on nine songs so we thought we could get in and finish two or three and demo everything else so that's what we're trying to do now," he said. "I don't know if anything will come out by [the time we hit the road as part of this summer's Rockstar Energy Drink] Mayhem [Festival] or not. Hopefully we'll get two done and we can get it out to Mayhem."
Lombardo confirmed to Metal Injection at the fourth annual Revolver Golden Gods awards — which was held on April 11 at Club Nokia in downtown Los Angeles, California — that the band will release a new EP prior to taking part Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival.
During an interview with The Nervous Breakdown, Lombardo stated about SLAYER's current status, "[We're] writing new music. Kerry [King, guitar] and I are writing new material. We have nine songs and everything's moving forward."
When asked what the new material sounds like, Lombardo said, "[It sounds like] SLAYER. . . Traditional fans will be pacified and non-traditional fans will be like, 'Again?'"
On the topic of when SLAYER fans can expect to hear some new music from the band, Lombardo said, "I don't know, but we're going to do a three- or four-song EP to keep the fans pacified until we come out with the full-length record. Kind of like what we did with 'Psycopathy Red', which was like a two-song 45."
Lombardo confirmed to Metal Injection at the fourth annual Revolver Golden Gods awards — which was held on April 11 at Club Nokia in downtown Los Angeles, California — that the band will release a new EP prior to taking part Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival.
During an interview with The Nervous Breakdown, Lombardo stated about SLAYER's current status, "[We're] writing new music. Kerry [King, guitar] and I are writing new material. We have nine songs and everything's moving forward."
When asked what the new material sounds like, Lombardo said, "[It sounds like] SLAYER. . . Traditional fans will be pacified and non-traditional fans will be like, 'Again?'"
On the topic of when SLAYER fans can expect to hear some new music from the band, Lombardo said, "I don't know, but we're going to do a three- or four-song EP to keep the fans pacified until we come out with the full-length record. Kind of like what we did with 'Psycopathy Red', which was like a two-song 45."
KILL DEVIL HILL — the band featuring Vinny Appice (HEAVEN & HELL, BLACK SABBATH, DIO) on drums, Rex Brown (PANTERA, DOWN) on bass, Mark Zavon (RATT, W.A.S.P., 40 CYCLE HUM) on guitar and Jason "Dewey" Bragg (PISSING RAZORS) on vocals — has scheduled the following European dates:
Sep. 21 - Hamburg, Germany - Markthalle
Sep. 22 - Berlin, Germany - C-Club
Sep. 23 - München, Germany - Backstage
Sep. 25 - London, UK - Garage
Sep. 26 - Paris, France - Divan Du Monde
Sep. 28 - Köln, Germany - Luxor
Sep. 29 - Bochum, Germany - Zeche
Sep. 30 - Amsterdam, Holland - Melkweg
The self-titled debut album from KILL DEVIL HILL will be released via SPV/Steamhammer on the following dates:
U.S./Canada: May 22
Germany: May 25
Rest Of Europe: May 28
"Kill Devil Hill" was originally due on March 27 but had its release date pushed back so that the band could record another track at the last minute. The group explained, "It was decided that a song that was to be a bonus track might be released as a single, so in order to include that song on the CD we needed an additional track to include as a bonus in its place."
"Kill Devil Hill" was produced by Warren Riker, who is best known for his work with DOWN, CORROSION OF CONFORMITY, SUBLIME and CATHEDRAL. The effort will be available in a standard CD edition, as an iTunes digital download, and double gatefold LP.
"Kill Devil Hill" track listing:
CD:
01. War Machine (3:09)
02. Hangman (3:40)
03. Voodoo Doll (3:53)
04. Gates Of Hell (4:53)
05. Rise From The Shadows (4:03)
06. We're All Gonna Die (4:26)
07. Strange (3:31)
08. Time & Time Again (3:50)
09. Old Man (3:06)
10. Mysterious Ways (2:25)
11. Up In Flames (6:04)
12. Revenge (4:54)
Double Gatefold LP:
Side 1 (14:56)
01. War Machine (3:09)
02. Hangman (3:40)
03. We're All Gonna Die (4:26)
04. Time & Time Again (3:50)
Side 2 (10:21)
01. Old Man (3:06)
02. Mysterious Ways (2:25
03. Revenge (4:54)
Side 3 (10:07)
01. Rise From The Shadows (4:03)
02. Up In Flames (6:04)
03. Strange (3:31)
Side 4 (12:56)
01. Voodoo Doll (3:53)
02. Gates Of Hell (4:53)
03. Drawbridge (5:58) (bonus track)
iTunes Digital Download:
01. War Machine (3:09)
02. Hangman (3:40)
03. Voodoo Doll (3:53)
04. Gates Of Hell (4:53)
05. Rise From The Shadows (4:03)
06. We're All Gonna Die (4:26)
07. Strange (3:31)
08. Time & Time Again (3:50)
09. Old Man (3:06)
10. Mysterious Ways (2:25)
11. Up In Flames (6:04)
12. Revenge (4:54)
13. Gates Of Hell (acoustic version; bonus track)
The song "Time & Time Again" can be streamed using the SoundCloud player below (courtesy of RevolverMag.com).
According to Appice, KILL DEVIL HILL's sound is "like a cross between BLACK SABBATH, ALICE IN CHAINS and a little bit of LED ZEPPELIN thrown in. It's heavy, but with a lot of cool hooks and melodic overtones, too."
The members of KILL DEVIL HILL previously stated about their songwriting and recording approach, "We are going old school meets new; no sample drums here!!"
KILL DEVIL HILL made its live debut on April 29, 2011 at the Key Club in Hollywood, California.
KILL DEVIL HILL is:
* Jason "Dewey" Bragg (PISSING RAZORS) - Vocals
* Mark Zavon (RATT, W.A.S.P., 40 CYCLE HUM) - Guitar
* Rex Brown (DOWN, PANTERA) - Bass
* Vinny Appice (HEAVEN & HELL, BLACK SABBATH, DIO) – Drums
KILL DEVIL HILL and ADRENALINE MOB will join forces for a short co-headlining tour in May. The trek will kick off on May 10 in Cleveland an will make stops in Dallas, Chicago and Orlando before wrapping up in Charlotte on May 22. The shows will feature KILL DEVIL HILL followed by ADRENALINE MOB and then end in all-out jam between the two groups. Special VIP packages, including exclusive items and meet-and-greets will be available for each band.
Sep. 21 - Hamburg, Germany - Markthalle
Sep. 22 - Berlin, Germany - C-Club
Sep. 23 - München, Germany - Backstage
Sep. 25 - London, UK - Garage
Sep. 26 - Paris, France - Divan Du Monde
Sep. 28 - Köln, Germany - Luxor
Sep. 29 - Bochum, Germany - Zeche
Sep. 30 - Amsterdam, Holland - Melkweg
The self-titled debut album from KILL DEVIL HILL will be released via SPV/Steamhammer on the following dates:
U.S./Canada: May 22
Germany: May 25
Rest Of Europe: May 28
"Kill Devil Hill" was originally due on March 27 but had its release date pushed back so that the band could record another track at the last minute. The group explained, "It was decided that a song that was to be a bonus track might be released as a single, so in order to include that song on the CD we needed an additional track to include as a bonus in its place."
"Kill Devil Hill" was produced by Warren Riker, who is best known for his work with DOWN, CORROSION OF CONFORMITY, SUBLIME and CATHEDRAL. The effort will be available in a standard CD edition, as an iTunes digital download, and double gatefold LP.
"Kill Devil Hill" track listing:
CD:
01. War Machine (3:09)
02. Hangman (3:40)
03. Voodoo Doll (3:53)
04. Gates Of Hell (4:53)
05. Rise From The Shadows (4:03)
06. We're All Gonna Die (4:26)
07. Strange (3:31)
08. Time & Time Again (3:50)
09. Old Man (3:06)
10. Mysterious Ways (2:25)
11. Up In Flames (6:04)
12. Revenge (4:54)
Double Gatefold LP:
Side 1 (14:56)
01. War Machine (3:09)
02. Hangman (3:40)
03. We're All Gonna Die (4:26)
04. Time & Time Again (3:50)
Side 2 (10:21)
01. Old Man (3:06)
02. Mysterious Ways (2:25
03. Revenge (4:54)
Side 3 (10:07)
01. Rise From The Shadows (4:03)
02. Up In Flames (6:04)
03. Strange (3:31)
Side 4 (12:56)
01. Voodoo Doll (3:53)
02. Gates Of Hell (4:53)
03. Drawbridge (5:58) (bonus track)
iTunes Digital Download:
01. War Machine (3:09)
02. Hangman (3:40)
03. Voodoo Doll (3:53)
04. Gates Of Hell (4:53)
05. Rise From The Shadows (4:03)
06. We're All Gonna Die (4:26)
07. Strange (3:31)
08. Time & Time Again (3:50)
09. Old Man (3:06)
10. Mysterious Ways (2:25)
11. Up In Flames (6:04)
12. Revenge (4:54)
13. Gates Of Hell (acoustic version; bonus track)
The song "Time & Time Again" can be streamed using the SoundCloud player below (courtesy of RevolverMag.com).
According to Appice, KILL DEVIL HILL's sound is "like a cross between BLACK SABBATH, ALICE IN CHAINS and a little bit of LED ZEPPELIN thrown in. It's heavy, but with a lot of cool hooks and melodic overtones, too."
The members of KILL DEVIL HILL previously stated about their songwriting and recording approach, "We are going old school meets new; no sample drums here!!"
KILL DEVIL HILL made its live debut on April 29, 2011 at the Key Club in Hollywood, California.
KILL DEVIL HILL is:
* Jason "Dewey" Bragg (PISSING RAZORS) - Vocals
* Mark Zavon (RATT, W.A.S.P., 40 CYCLE HUM) - Guitar
* Rex Brown (DOWN, PANTERA) - Bass
* Vinny Appice (HEAVEN & HELL, BLACK SABBATH, DIO) – Drums
KILL DEVIL HILL and ADRENALINE MOB will join forces for a short co-headlining tour in May. The trek will kick off on May 10 in Cleveland an will make stops in Dallas, Chicago and Orlando before wrapping up in Charlotte on May 22. The shows will feature KILL DEVIL HILL followed by ADRENALINE MOB and then end in all-out jam between the two groups. Special VIP packages, including exclusive items and meet-and-greets will be available for each band.
German power metallers HELLOWEEN are working on the follow-up to 2010's "7 Sinners" for an early 2013 release.
Says HELLOWEEN guitarist Michael Weikath: "Right now we are busy with finalizing the songwriting process and are getting ready to take the accumulated ideas into a final selection for the new record. Everybody in the band is excited and eager to take what we have worked on so far to the next level."
HELLOWEEN's new album will once again be helmed by long-time producer Charlie Bauerfeind and will contain "all the trademark" elements on the band's sound," according to a press release. "Already in this early stage the new effort promises to be much more than a fine follow-up to the highly acclaimed 'Gambling With The Devil' and '7 Sinners' albums. Bombastic epic pieces have been worked on as well as ultrafast heavy songs and mid-tempo anthems."
"7 Sinners", the 13th studio album from HELLOWEEN, sold around 1,900 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 7 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.
Says HELLOWEEN guitarist Michael Weikath: "Right now we are busy with finalizing the songwriting process and are getting ready to take the accumulated ideas into a final selection for the new record. Everybody in the band is excited and eager to take what we have worked on so far to the next level."
HELLOWEEN's new album will once again be helmed by long-time producer Charlie Bauerfeind and will contain "all the trademark" elements on the band's sound," according to a press release. "Already in this early stage the new effort promises to be much more than a fine follow-up to the highly acclaimed 'Gambling With The Devil' and '7 Sinners' albums. Bombastic epic pieces have been worked on as well as ultrafast heavy songs and mid-tempo anthems."
"7 Sinners", the 13th studio album from HELLOWEEN, sold around 1,900 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 7 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.
Joe Satriani (CHICKENFOOT), John Petrucci (DREAM THEATER) and Steve Morse (DEEP PURPLE) will join forces for the South American edition of the G3 tour in October.
Confirmed dates so far are as follows:
Oct. 11- Citibank Hall - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Oct. 12 - Credicard Hall - Sao Paulo, Brazil
More shows will be announced soon.
G3 is a concert tour organized by Satriani, featuring him alongside two other guitarists. Since its inception in 1996, G3 has toured most years and has featured many guitarists, including Vai (Satriani's former student), Eric Johnson, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Yngwie Malmsteen, John Petrucci, Robert Fripp, Paul Gilbert, Uli Jon Roth, Michael Schenker, Adrian Legg and many other special guests, including Tony MacAlpine, Johnny Hiland, Steve Lukather, Steve Morse, Keith More, Chris Duarte, Andy Timmons, Neal Schon, Gary Hoey, Brian May, Billy Gibbons, Johnny A, George Lynch, Patrick Rondat, Herman Li, Alejandro Silva and Eric Sardinas.
Confirmed dates so far are as follows:
Oct. 11- Citibank Hall - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Oct. 12 - Credicard Hall - Sao Paulo, Brazil
More shows will be announced soon.
G3 is a concert tour organized by Satriani, featuring him alongside two other guitarists. Since its inception in 1996, G3 has toured most years and has featured many guitarists, including Vai (Satriani's former student), Eric Johnson, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Yngwie Malmsteen, John Petrucci, Robert Fripp, Paul Gilbert, Uli Jon Roth, Michael Schenker, Adrian Legg and many other special guests, including Tony MacAlpine, Johnny Hiland, Steve Lukather, Steve Morse, Keith More, Chris Duarte, Andy Timmons, Neal Schon, Gary Hoey, Brian May, Billy Gibbons, Johnny A, George Lynch, Patrick Rondat, Herman Li, Alejandro Silva and Eric Sardinas.
JON OLIVA'S PAIN, the Florida-based band led by SAVATAGE mastermind Jon Oliva, is preparing to hit the road in June to celebrate the 25th anniversary of one of heavy metal's most iconic records, "Hall Of The Mountain King" by SAVATAGE, where Oliva himself was the singer and main songwriter from 1982 to 2002. The band will perform the entire album as a special one-time-only treat for the still massive amount of loyal fans, along with songs from the DOCTOR BUTCHER album (by Jon Oliva and Chris Caffery, released in 1995), SAVATAGE and JON OLIVA'S PAIN. The tour will begin with a U.S. warm-up show on June 16 in Tampa, Florida, and then on to Europe for 13 shows plus a visit to Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
JON OLIVA'S PAIN's lineup for the tour will be as follows:
Jon Oliva (piano, keyboards and vocals)
Jerry Outlaw (guitar)
Joe Diaz (guitar)
Jason Jennings (bass)
Christopher Kinder (drums)
Tour dates:
Jun. 16 - Tampa, Ritz Ybor (USA)
Jun. 23 - Bonn, Brückenforum (Germany)
Jun. 24 - Dessel, Graspop Metal Meeting (Belgium)
Jun. 26 - Dubai, Club Sensation (United Arab Emirates)
Jun. 29 - Essen, Turock (Germany)
Jun. 30 - Dokkum, Dokk'em Open Air (Netherlands)
Jul. 03 - Aschaffenburg, Colos-Saal (Germany)
Jul. 04 - Zoetermeer, Boerderij (Netherlands)
Jul. 05 - Vosselaar, Biebob (Belgium)
Jul. 07 - Haugesund, Byscenen (Norway)
Jul. 09 - Pratteln, Konzertfabrik Z7 (Switzerland)
Jul. 10 - Trezzo Sull'Adda, Live Club (Italy)
Jul. 12 - Balingen, Bang Your Head!!! (Germany)
Jul. 13 - Tilburg, 013 (Netherlands)
Jul. 15 - London, The Garage (United Kingdom)
Jon Oliva comments: "With the passing of our dear friend and guitarist Matt LaPorte just a year ago, it is time to get the machine back up and running. I miss performing live, and the timing of the 25th anniversary of 'Hall Of The Mountain King' makes this the perfect opportunity. We will perform what I consider one of the best and most important records of SAVATAGE's career, and this is of course another chance I get to honor my brother Criss [late SAVATAGE guitarist], one of the greatest guitar players ever. I am still going through old tapes and recordings, and can't believe what a talent he was and how he continues to inspire me. I hope you can attend this special show, we will be leaving it all on stage every night with you, the legions, by our sides. See you soon and much love to all!"
Christopher Kinder comments: "This is a celebration of the life and music that we feel is worthy of this tour. 'Hall Of The Mountain King' is a staple to many heavy metal fans around the globe, and it certainly deserves a party. The band has been in rehearsal mode for quite some time now, and really sounds fantastic. A few more weeks and we will all be on auto-pilot. It's going to be EPIC! This opportunity — and there will only be these 15 shows — comes along once in a lifetime, and we have prepared a very special night for all who attend."
"Hall Of The Mountain King" was the first SAVATAGE album to be produced by Paul O'Neill and it showed the beginning of the band's progressive tendencies as they explored new forms of expression in their music. Many fans consider this LP a turning point in SAVATAGE's musical identity. As the group's first concept effort, it had a constant tone and was more complex than their previous albums, with two entirely instrumental tracks that go beyond simple guitar riffs and solos, namely "Prelude To Madness" and "Last Dawn".
JON OLIVA'S PAIN's lineup for the tour will be as follows:
Jon Oliva (piano, keyboards and vocals)
Jerry Outlaw (guitar)
Joe Diaz (guitar)
Jason Jennings (bass)
Christopher Kinder (drums)
Tour dates:
Jun. 16 - Tampa, Ritz Ybor (USA)
Jun. 23 - Bonn, Brückenforum (Germany)
Jun. 24 - Dessel, Graspop Metal Meeting (Belgium)
Jun. 26 - Dubai, Club Sensation (United Arab Emirates)
Jun. 29 - Essen, Turock (Germany)
Jun. 30 - Dokkum, Dokk'em Open Air (Netherlands)
Jul. 03 - Aschaffenburg, Colos-Saal (Germany)
Jul. 04 - Zoetermeer, Boerderij (Netherlands)
Jul. 05 - Vosselaar, Biebob (Belgium)
Jul. 07 - Haugesund, Byscenen (Norway)
Jul. 09 - Pratteln, Konzertfabrik Z7 (Switzerland)
Jul. 10 - Trezzo Sull'Adda, Live Club (Italy)
Jul. 12 - Balingen, Bang Your Head!!! (Germany)
Jul. 13 - Tilburg, 013 (Netherlands)
Jul. 15 - London, The Garage (United Kingdom)
Jon Oliva comments: "With the passing of our dear friend and guitarist Matt LaPorte just a year ago, it is time to get the machine back up and running. I miss performing live, and the timing of the 25th anniversary of 'Hall Of The Mountain King' makes this the perfect opportunity. We will perform what I consider one of the best and most important records of SAVATAGE's career, and this is of course another chance I get to honor my brother Criss [late SAVATAGE guitarist], one of the greatest guitar players ever. I am still going through old tapes and recordings, and can't believe what a talent he was and how he continues to inspire me. I hope you can attend this special show, we will be leaving it all on stage every night with you, the legions, by our sides. See you soon and much love to all!"
Christopher Kinder comments: "This is a celebration of the life and music that we feel is worthy of this tour. 'Hall Of The Mountain King' is a staple to many heavy metal fans around the globe, and it certainly deserves a party. The band has been in rehearsal mode for quite some time now, and really sounds fantastic. A few more weeks and we will all be on auto-pilot. It's going to be EPIC! This opportunity — and there will only be these 15 shows — comes along once in a lifetime, and we have prepared a very special night for all who attend."
"Hall Of The Mountain King" was the first SAVATAGE album to be produced by Paul O'Neill and it showed the beginning of the band's progressive tendencies as they explored new forms of expression in their music. Many fans consider this LP a turning point in SAVATAGE's musical identity. As the group's first concept effort, it had a constant tone and was more complex than their previous albums, with two entirely instrumental tracks that go beyond simple guitar riffs and solos, namely "Prelude To Madness" and "Last Dawn".
Like the beast it's named after, Atlanta's Mastodon is fairly ugly and makes a hell of a racket. In just over a decade, the band has released five albums and each has been better than the last, culminating in 2011's The Hunter.
Speaking from the tour bus and in anticipation of tonight's show at The Palladium Ballroom, drummer Brann Dailor talked about Mastodon turning away from the concept albums of the past and how multi-band tours can be a pain in the ass.
Oftentimes, your music is described as sludge metal, but your newest effort, The Hunter, doesn't fit that description. Do you agree?
Yes, there are all sorts of silly ways that people label bands. It's often about each person's musical vocabulary. Some people just throw labels out there so they can have something to write, so that they can try to explain what something sounds like. I don't feel like the new album is that sludgy, but it might have a little of that in there. I try not to label it. I just play it. But I understand the need people have to label bands, to put it somewhere.
Yes, there are all sorts of silly ways that people label bands. It's often about each person's musical vocabulary. Some people just throw labels out there so they can have something to write, so that they can try to explain what something sounds like. I don't feel like the new album is that sludgy, but it might have a little of that in there. I try not to label it. I just play it. But I understand the need people have to label bands, to put it somewhere.
When The Hunter came out, it debuted at number ten on Billboard. Were you surprised?
Sure, I'm always surprised when somebody buys our records. You know what I mean? I was excited about it. Ten is a good number. It's cool that people still buy records. Our fans are actually committed to buying the music. We are lucky in that regard. But we wanted to move away from making another concept record, so we tried to write the best collection of songs we could and just put them on one album. I guess fans like that idea.
Sure, I'm always surprised when somebody buys our records. You know what I mean? I was excited about it. Ten is a good number. It's cool that people still buy records. Our fans are actually committed to buying the music. We are lucky in that regard. But we wanted to move away from making another concept record, so we tried to write the best collection of songs we could and just put them on one album. I guess fans like that idea.
The band's 2004 effort, Leviathan, was the one that really broke Mastodon
commercially. What was it about that album that connected to a wider audience?
I'm not really sure. We get in our practice space and we write the things that sound good to us and that album just came out at the right time. We were constantly on tour like we are now. That's the deal. It just sort of happened and things took off for the band. The Moby-Dick theme resonated with people. They could connect with something.
commercially. What was it about that album that connected to a wider audience?
I'm not really sure. We get in our practice space and we write the things that sound good to us and that album just came out at the right time. We were constantly on tour like we are now. That's the deal. It just sort of happened and things took off for the band. The Moby-Dick theme resonated with people. They could connect with something.
Do you think by basing the album on the Melville novel, you guys are promoting literacy?
I guess. I never thought about it that way. From an artistic standpoint, we wanted to do a water- based record. The idea of basing it on Moby-Dick kind of jumped up and popped out at me.
I guess. I never thought about it that way. From an artistic standpoint, we wanted to do a water- based record. The idea of basing it on Moby-Dick kind of jumped up and popped out at me.
Have you seen any of the film versions of Moby-Dick?
You can't do a Moby-Dick movie. It just doesn't work. There are too many side stories. Melville trails off a lot and gives the reader a lot of background and history in the book. This was extremely fascinating for me. The movies never do that. That's where the movie versions fall short.
You can't do a Moby-Dick movie. It just doesn't work. There are too many side stories. Melville trails off a lot and gives the reader a lot of background and history in the book. This was extremely fascinating for me. The movies never do that. That's where the movie versions fall short.
Why do metal bands love concept albums?
I don't know. Maybe it's folks like King Diamond and Iron Maiden. Those are two of my favorite bands. For me, it all started with those two and then I started getting into the progressive stuff, even Yes' Close to the Edge.That style has always appealed to me, to my inner nerd.
I don't know. Maybe it's folks like King Diamond and Iron Maiden. Those are two of my favorite bands. For me, it all started with those two and then I started getting into the progressive stuff, even Yes' Close to the Edge.That style has always appealed to me, to my inner nerd.
Why does the band often use guest vocalists?
Because they are our friends and we want to put them in our music. And it's fun. They are our buddies and they are good singers. We always have spots for them. Of course, live it's going to be a little bit different. The live shows are a separate piece of art. We try to recreate the songs as close as we can to the album versions, but it's going to be different.That's the way live music is supposed to be. These days, everyone has Pro Tools with all these backing tracks to make it sound exactly like the record. We don't do that. I'd rather it be less like the record, warts and all. So many bands think it has to be so slick and perfect. I want to hear the song maybe a bit faster. I want to get excited.
Because they are our friends and we want to put them in our music. And it's fun. They are our buddies and they are good singers. We always have spots for them. Of course, live it's going to be a little bit different. The live shows are a separate piece of art. We try to recreate the songs as close as we can to the album versions, but it's going to be different.That's the way live music is supposed to be. These days, everyone has Pro Tools with all these backing tracks to make it sound exactly like the record. We don't do that. I'd rather it be less like the record, warts and all. So many bands think it has to be so slick and perfect. I want to hear the song maybe a bit faster. I want to get excited.
Mastodon tours with bands like Cursive, Against Me and Planes Mistaken for Stars. These bands are very different stylistically from what you guys do. Is that intended?
Yes, it is. When we went out with Cursive, it was an experiment. They are our great friends. We love those guys and we love that kind of music. But some fans are not as open-minded. They are not going to start liking that kind of music just because we put it in front of them. These days, we try to stick a little more with bands that are closer to our sound. This is so kids can get their money's worth and have a well-rounded rock show.
Yes, it is. When we went out with Cursive, it was an experiment. They are our great friends. We love those guys and we love that kind of music. But some fans are not as open-minded. They are not going to start liking that kind of music just because we put it in front of them. These days, we try to stick a little more with bands that are closer to our sound. This is so kids can get their money's worth and have a well-rounded rock show.
Have those more experimental bands ever been mistreated by your audience?
I don't think mistreated, but fans were sort of separated. Some fans were sitting in the back not excited about what was going on. I think there was a percentage of people who liked all of the bands, but there were a bunch who were not excited about it. It's unfortunate, but the reality is something different. I remember being a teenager and all I listened to was Metallica.
I don't think mistreated, but fans were sort of separated. Some fans were sitting in the back not excited about what was going on. I think there was a percentage of people who liked all of the bands, but there were a bunch who were not excited about it. It's unfortunate, but the reality is something different. I remember being a teenager and all I listened to was Metallica.
Are these multi-band tours a pain in the ass?
They can be. The festival circuit can be a tough one. You are on at different times every day. The set lengths can be different and it is hard to get into a groove. You're flying a lot and getting up at six in the morning. It's a wild experience. You get to meet a lot of people and see some old friends.
They can be. The festival circuit can be a tough one. You are on at different times every day. The set lengths can be different and it is hard to get into a groove. You're flying a lot and getting up at six in the morning. It's a wild experience. You get to meet a lot of people and see some old friends.
FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE, TRIVIUM, POP EVIL, EMMURE, GOD FORBID and BATTLECROSS will join forces for the "Trespass America Festival" tour in July/August. The trek is expected to be officially be announced tomorrow afternoon (Tuesday, April 24) during a press conference at the Key Club in West Hollywood, California.
FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH's third album, "American Capitalist", debuted at No. 3 on The Billboard 200 chart, selling 91,000 copies in its first week of release. Both the chart and sales numbers were career highs for the group.
"American Capitalist" was released as a standard CD, and a limited-edition deluxe CD format complete with special packaging plus second disc containing a number of exclusive remixes, including one for "Under And Over It". Meanwhile, the iTunes version carries the bonus track "The Tragic Truth".
KILLSWITCH ENGAGE was recently rejoined by original vocalist Jesse Leach following the departure of Howard Jones.
Leach sang on the band's first self-titled album, which came out in 2000, and on their landmark 2002 Roadrunner debut "Alive Or Just Breathing". Leach left the band in 2002 and was replaced by Jones, but his work on "Alive Or Just Breathing" has always been revered by diehard, longtime KILLSWITCH ENGAGE fans.
FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH's third album, "American Capitalist", debuted at No. 3 on The Billboard 200 chart, selling 91,000 copies in its first week of release. Both the chart and sales numbers were career highs for the group.
"American Capitalist" was released as a standard CD, and a limited-edition deluxe CD format complete with special packaging plus second disc containing a number of exclusive remixes, including one for "Under And Over It". Meanwhile, the iTunes version carries the bonus track "The Tragic Truth".
KILLSWITCH ENGAGE was recently rejoined by original vocalist Jesse Leach following the departure of Howard Jones.
Leach sang on the band's first self-titled album, which came out in 2000, and on their landmark 2002 Roadrunner debut "Alive Or Just Breathing". Leach left the band in 2002 and was replaced by Jones, but his work on "Alive Or Just Breathing" has always been revered by diehard, longtime KILLSWITCH ENGAGE fans.
Progressive metal giants DREAM THEATER have been forced to cancel their May 5 concert in Beijing, China Beijing after the organizers were unable to secure the necessary working visas in time for the band to properly enter the country. The group states, "We at DREAM THEATER are truly sorry for any inconveniences."
DREAM THEATER has annouced a second North American leg of a world tour in support of its acclaimed and globally successful album "A Dramatic Turn Of Events" (Roadrunner). The progressive hard rock icons, who've sold in excess of 10 million records and DVDs worldwide, will launch their summer dates June 15 in Rochester, New York and wrap July 21 in Chester, Pennsylvania. The tour includes stops at the Gibson Amphitheater in Los Angeles and the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, New Jersey plus a two-night engagement at the Paramount Theater on Long Island, New York.
Joining DREAM THEATER, starting June 16 in Columbus, Ohio and for the rest of the tour, is special guest CRIMSON PROJEKCT featuring Adrian Belew, Tony Levin, Pat Mastelotto, Markus Reuter, Julie Slick and Tobias Ralph. They'll be performing the songs of progressive rock legends KING CRIMSON.
For the past few months DREAM THEATER has been touring around the world including visits to Europe and Mexico and are set to begin an Asian tour on April 19 in Seoul. The tour will bring the group to Japan, Indonesia, Singapore and Taiwan and will conclude May 8 in Bangkok Thailand.
DREAM THEATER's new album, "A Dramatic Turn Of Events", sold 36,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to enter The Billboard 200 chart at position No. 8. The band's previous CD, 2009's "Black Clouds & Silver Linings", opened with 40,000 units to land at No. 6. This was roughly in line with the first-week tally registered by its predecessor, "Systematic Chaos", which shifted 36,000 copies in 2007 to enter the chart at No. 19. 2005's "Octavarium" premiered with 27,000 copies to debut at No. 36.
DREAM THEATER was among the nominees in the "Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance" category at the 54th annual Grammy Awards, which was held on February 12 at Staples Center in Los Angeles.
DREAM THEATER has annouced a second North American leg of a world tour in support of its acclaimed and globally successful album "A Dramatic Turn Of Events" (Roadrunner). The progressive hard rock icons, who've sold in excess of 10 million records and DVDs worldwide, will launch their summer dates June 15 in Rochester, New York and wrap July 21 in Chester, Pennsylvania. The tour includes stops at the Gibson Amphitheater in Los Angeles and the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, New Jersey plus a two-night engagement at the Paramount Theater on Long Island, New York.
Joining DREAM THEATER, starting June 16 in Columbus, Ohio and for the rest of the tour, is special guest CRIMSON PROJEKCT featuring Adrian Belew, Tony Levin, Pat Mastelotto, Markus Reuter, Julie Slick and Tobias Ralph. They'll be performing the songs of progressive rock legends KING CRIMSON.
For the past few months DREAM THEATER has been touring around the world including visits to Europe and Mexico and are set to begin an Asian tour on April 19 in Seoul. The tour will bring the group to Japan, Indonesia, Singapore and Taiwan and will conclude May 8 in Bangkok Thailand.
DREAM THEATER's new album, "A Dramatic Turn Of Events", sold 36,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to enter The Billboard 200 chart at position No. 8. The band's previous CD, 2009's "Black Clouds & Silver Linings", opened with 40,000 units to land at No. 6. This was roughly in line with the first-week tally registered by its predecessor, "Systematic Chaos", which shifted 36,000 copies in 2007 to enter the chart at No. 19. 2005's "Octavarium" premiered with 27,000 copies to debut at No. 36.
DREAM THEATER was among the nominees in the "Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance" category at the 54th annual Grammy Awards, which was held on February 12 at Staples Center in Los Angeles.
SYSTEM OF A DOWN and DEFTONES will join forces for the following shows in August:
Aug. 02 - Philadelphia, PA - Susquehanna Bank Center
Aug. 04 - Holmdel Township, NJ - PNC Center
Aug. 05 - Wantagh, NY - Nikon At Jones Beach
Aug. 07 - Washington, DC - Verizon Center
Aug. 09 - Boston, MA - Comcast Center
Aug. 11 - Montreal, QC - Heavy MTL
Aug. 12 - Toronto, ON - Heavy T.O.
Aug. 14 - Detroit, MI - DTE Energy Amphitheater
Aug. 15 - Chicago, IL - Allstate Arena
During an interview with Brazil's Multishow after SYSTEM OF A DOWN's performance at the Rock In Rio festival last October in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, the band's drummer, John Dolmayan, was asked if SOAD fans can expect to hear a new studio album from the group following its current reunion tour. "We're gonna take it day by day," he said. "For the people who are waiting for an album — I know there's a lot of people waiting for an album; I'm waiting for an album just like they are. It's gonna happen when it's right and when we can make something that tops what we've done in the past. Because we don't really wanna rest on our laurels — where what you've done in the past is what you depend on. Well, I don't wanna do that, and I know the rest of the guys don't wanna do that. Instead of resting on our laurels, we wanna throw them away and create something new and specific for this generation that they can say that's their SYSTEM OF A DOWN."
Dolmayan previously told Straight.com about SYSTEM OF A DOWN's five-year hiatus, "I personally don't like breaks — I like to continue playing. But it was nice to go off and be John Dolmayan, as opposed to John from SYSTEM, for a while. I think everybody had similar feelings."
The drummer explained that a desire to pull off the road for a while and reconnect with their lives is what led SYSTEM to take an extended vacation from each other, saying, "When you're on the road and in the studio all the time, it's kind of like traveling at light speed. When you come back, it's like 20 years have passed by, and you're only one or two hours older . . . You're living a nomadic life, and you lose touch with people because they have grown away from you. People get older, get married, die — life is still going on."
SYSTEM's last two albums, "Mezmerize" and "Hypnotize", were released in 2005.
DEFTONES has entered the studio to begin recording its seventh album for a late 2012 release.
2010's "Diamond Eyes" has been one of DEFTONES' most successful outings. The set's last single, "You've Seen The Butcher", was a Top 15 rock radio hit.
DEFTONES will once again record with Sergio Vega on bass. Vega stepped in for touring purposes after original bassist Chi Cheng was left in a semi-comatose state by a November 2008 car accident, and stayed on to record "Diamond Eyes" with the group.
Last October, Reprise Records released a limited-edition vinyl box set from DEFTONES. "Deftones: The Vinyl Collection, 1995 - 2011" is a seven-album (8 LP) retrospective containing the band's six studio albums — 1995's "Adrenaline", 1997's "Around The Fur", 2000's "White Pony", 2003's "Deftones", 2006's "Saturday Night Wrist", and 2010's "Diamond Eyes", and the limited-edition 2011 Record Store Day release "Covers". Each album was exclusively re-cut for vinyl from the original master recordings and pressed on 180-gram European virgin vinyl. The collection, which included a unique lithograph and cover art, came packaged in a hand-numbered collector's box pressing of 1,000 copies worldwide.
Aug. 02 - Philadelphia, PA - Susquehanna Bank Center
Aug. 04 - Holmdel Township, NJ - PNC Center
Aug. 05 - Wantagh, NY - Nikon At Jones Beach
Aug. 07 - Washington, DC - Verizon Center
Aug. 09 - Boston, MA - Comcast Center
Aug. 11 - Montreal, QC - Heavy MTL
Aug. 12 - Toronto, ON - Heavy T.O.
Aug. 14 - Detroit, MI - DTE Energy Amphitheater
Aug. 15 - Chicago, IL - Allstate Arena
During an interview with Brazil's Multishow after SYSTEM OF A DOWN's performance at the Rock In Rio festival last October in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, the band's drummer, John Dolmayan, was asked if SOAD fans can expect to hear a new studio album from the group following its current reunion tour. "We're gonna take it day by day," he said. "For the people who are waiting for an album — I know there's a lot of people waiting for an album; I'm waiting for an album just like they are. It's gonna happen when it's right and when we can make something that tops what we've done in the past. Because we don't really wanna rest on our laurels — where what you've done in the past is what you depend on. Well, I don't wanna do that, and I know the rest of the guys don't wanna do that. Instead of resting on our laurels, we wanna throw them away and create something new and specific for this generation that they can say that's their SYSTEM OF A DOWN."
Dolmayan previously told Straight.com about SYSTEM OF A DOWN's five-year hiatus, "I personally don't like breaks — I like to continue playing. But it was nice to go off and be John Dolmayan, as opposed to John from SYSTEM, for a while. I think everybody had similar feelings."
The drummer explained that a desire to pull off the road for a while and reconnect with their lives is what led SYSTEM to take an extended vacation from each other, saying, "When you're on the road and in the studio all the time, it's kind of like traveling at light speed. When you come back, it's like 20 years have passed by, and you're only one or two hours older . . . You're living a nomadic life, and you lose touch with people because they have grown away from you. People get older, get married, die — life is still going on."
SYSTEM's last two albums, "Mezmerize" and "Hypnotize", were released in 2005.
DEFTONES has entered the studio to begin recording its seventh album for a late 2012 release.
2010's "Diamond Eyes" has been one of DEFTONES' most successful outings. The set's last single, "You've Seen The Butcher", was a Top 15 rock radio hit.
DEFTONES will once again record with Sergio Vega on bass. Vega stepped in for touring purposes after original bassist Chi Cheng was left in a semi-comatose state by a November 2008 car accident, and stayed on to record "Diamond Eyes" with the group.
Last October, Reprise Records released a limited-edition vinyl box set from DEFTONES. "Deftones: The Vinyl Collection, 1995 - 2011" is a seven-album (8 LP) retrospective containing the band's six studio albums — 1995's "Adrenaline", 1997's "Around The Fur", 2000's "White Pony", 2003's "Deftones", 2006's "Saturday Night Wrist", and 2010's "Diamond Eyes", and the limited-edition 2011 Record Store Day release "Covers". Each album was exclusively re-cut for vinyl from the original master recordings and pressed on 180-gram European virgin vinyl. The collection, which included a unique lithograph and cover art, came packaged in a hand-numbered collector's box pressing of 1,000 copies worldwide.
The departure of frontman ZP Theart from United Kingdom-based power metallers DragonForce was confirmed in early March 2010 following an 11-year stint, the man having lent his voice to the albums Valley Of The Damned (February 2003), Sonic Firestorm (May 2004), Inhuman Rampage (January 2006), and Ultra Beatdown (August 2008). Musical differences were cited behind the parting at the time, though DragonForce sadly doesn't wish to discuss ZP's departure due to legal concerns. Auditions immediately followed.
"Since DragonForce has been around for awhile, we thought the best way to look for a singer was to do a worldwide search," explains Herman Li, lead guitarist and co-founder of DragonForce. "We pretty much approached singers from other bands that we like, and also had a few sending us auditions. There were so many things we were looking for. Of course they had to sing well, and had to have a good sense of melody. They had to be able to sing all the old songs well as well as the new stuff too, but I guess the old stuff is actually in a different style in some ways. The new songs have low range and high range, so they had to be able to pretty much cover everything.
"You got the musical side there, but you also have to be able to work with the singer of course. The way we approached working things out was really different to the previous album. We wanted a singer that we could really work with better, and have good communication with. That was one of the important things, to be able to move on. Of course hopefully they could play onstage well, sing live and everything, yeah (laughs). It's hard to be able to know exactly what you're getting into until after knowing a guy for a few months at least.
"All that actually lasted quite a long time. Of course while that was happening, we were also writing songs for the new album. It was surprising to find someone from Oxford to sing the kind of stuff that we do, because it's hard to find a singer who sings melodically. I think it's easy to just find a guy who growls and goes 'Raaarrrr!!' but finding a melodic singer who's good was really difficult actually, one to fit in the band (laughs).
"Before Marc was even in the band, we actually worked him really hard in terms of the audition process. He sent us a video, and we got him to sing more songs that he had to record live on a video. After that we met up with him just to see his personality, and then we had to have a rehearsal with him; singing a 35-minute set, getting him to learn a bunch of songs, and playing them together. After that I went to see him play with his band live in Reading somewhere, and then afterwards we got him into the studio to record demos of the new songs. If you think about that, that took about eight months to do and that was before he was even in the band. Later on it was just a continuation of what we were doing, rehearsing songs and recording and all that. Marc had a long trial initially before he was even in the band."
Marc Hudson's entrance into the DragonForce line-up was publicly announced in March 2011. "Apart from the musical side, one thing that Marc really has is that he is a really fast learner," the axeman enthuses. "Coming in as a non-professional who was playing pubs he was able to learn really quickly, and he got better and better while he was still recording the album and still while we were rehearsing the old songs as well as the new songs.
"We did a lot of jamming on new songs to get him confident before going into the studio. That was so he could express a song by himself, instead of him reading from a lyric sheet in front of a microphone and things like that for example. That's why we did all this rehearsing and jamming that we didn't do before, because we had to integrate Marc into the band. That was so that it was a real band instead of Marc plus DragonForce. We had to do all this jamming to make sure he knew what was going on, he knew us and all that. That was the way to bring out his confidence and things. Confidence needs some time to grow, so his first show and his tenth show are different things. The progress that he made while in the band before we finished the album was a huge leap though. That's one thing that was really important."
The right candidate being a fervent admirer of DragonForce's material wasn't extremely important, however. "Of course they had to like the music," Herman stresses. "We weren't going to get someone who didn't like the music, but they didn't have to be a fan fan. As long as they liked what we were doing, that's good. Some people just like the music but aren't really fans, you know what I mean? They're kind of different, and look at the band differently."
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Musically comparing the two, the assortment's co-founder feels that Marc is a metal vocalist while ZP is a hard rock vocalist. "The tone, the approach, and the techniques are very different, so the way they approach the arrangement and the way they express themselves musically is different," he reckons. "If you take someone like a classic metal singer against a classic hard rock singer – like Bruce Dickinson (Iron Maiden) versus Bon Jovi – you can hear the difference in the style. I wouldn't say it's like that, but it's similar to how you would compare the two."
On April 2012's The Power Within, Herman feels that DragonForce really brought its 'metal side to the surface.' "I think that was due a mixture of everything, including the approach to the way we made this album," he muses. "Previously on the last two albums, we used to just write the music and then go straight to the studio to record it. On this album we didn't; we wrote the music, jammed it out, and played it together as a band before we even recorded the album. We had more time to rehearse these songs and play them, so it definitely made a difference. Just the approach was much different, and I guess we wanted to reflect that kind of organic feel of the band playing the songs together on the album. Previously we used to just write the music, record the album straight away before we even played it together, and then go on tour."
Given the sheer complexity of past DragonForce tunes, it would be natural to assume that learning such compositions just prior to tour commitments was a mammoth task. "We did it back on the second album, where it was like 'Oh God, the songs are so long,'" the guitarist remembers. "If I take you back to 2004, when we went on tour doing songs from Sonic Firestorm we found songs like 'My Spirit Will Go On' and 'Fury Of The Storm' really difficult to play. Now they're the easiest songs to play though, and we can have a conversation while playing them. We've grown, gotten better I think."
While past DragonForce tracks haven't been altered for live performances, Marc's delivery somewhat contrasts with that of ZP's. "You don't wanna change the melodies around because those are written the way the songs were," Herman emphasises. "You put a few screams here and there, and a few touches of his sound. His tone vocally is very different anyway to ZP."
The musician judges The Power Within as closer in feel to Sonic Firestorm than Ultra Beatdown. "Ultra Beatdown is a much more extreme, longer songs kind of album," he surmises. "Every song was long, and every song was over the top with more things than you can imagine putting into a song and into this kind of music.
"The Power Within doesn't sound like any of the other albums because this album is more diverse with all the different tempos we have. We went full-on, 100% with everything on the new album. In the old days, we had one tempo pretty much. We stuck with a fast tempo, but this time we played around a bit with different tempos and showed different sides of us. Every song has its own feel so we tried to have one song more symphonic, another song more guitar driven with less keyboards, and things like that. You've got your acoustic song, and you've got your seven-string, faster than all the other songs and heavier. Of course you have the fast stuff and the faster stuff, but there's definitely more on this album. We've mixed the feel for each, whereas every song on Ultra Beatdown had everything."
'Fallen World' has been touted as the quickest track that DragonForce has ever recorded. "Of course there are some slower songs like 'Cry Thunder', 'Seasons' and some songs that are somewhere in between," Herman acknowledges. "We can't just go in one direction – slower – so we have to go faster too (laughs). You've got your normal, fast DragonForce songs like 'Holding On' and 'Heart Of The Storm' and then you've got even faster than that, so fastest ever for us. We're pushing in all different directions. 'Fallen World' I think was actually written a little bit later, but it changed quite a lot after Marc joined the band. We wanted to go a bit more extreme but also a bit heavier, so that's why we brought in the seven-string guitars – to give it a different tone. It's actually kind of weird. With a six-string and a seven-string guitar, the sound is so different and even the mix of it sounds different.
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"Mixing 'Fallen World', it was just the way that it sounds compared to the other songs because of the notes and the key. The approach to the vocals is different too; they're a bit more aggressive and a bit lower until you get to the chorus which has a more epic kind of tone. We kind of mix it up on that song, and then you've got the high screams at the end and stuff like that. It goes from a low to high level in vocal range."
As the axeman alluded to, 'Heart Of The Storm' is one of the pacier numbers on The Power Within. "That's your more classic DragonForce song," he appraises. "That's 200bpm, your fast DragonForce song with double guitars and all that. That's the classic sound right there that you'd expect; if you hear that song, you'll know it's DragonForce no matter where you are."
Positioned as track number five, 'Wings Of Liberty' is the album's longest song. "It's the more symphonic, epic one on this album," Herman figures. "That's actually got more use of keyboards than some of the other songs, so when I talk about the feel of different songs we went for a symphonic feel on that one."
Cut initially as a part of DragonForce side project Shadow Warriors, 'Power Of The Ninja Sword' was recorded for use as a Japanese bonus track. "We thought we'd just do that one," the band's co-founder states. "Why not (laughs)? It was as simple as that. We did it last time. Basically, Shadow Warriors wasn't a side project. To cut a long story short, we worked on those songs with Sam and I helped him record them because I was learning how to do recordings. Those songs are songs that were written a long time ago. We did do one on the last album as a bonus track and people liked it, so we thought we would do another one this time. That's Japanese only though, so it doesn't make any difference to this part of the world (laughs)."
Although solely a Japanese bonus track, fanatics will inevitably discover 'Power Of The Ninja Sword' through the internet. "The internet? What's that?," Herman jokes. "Never heard of it. I don't even know what the internet is (laughs)."
'Cry Thunder' was selected to highlight The Power Within for music video purposes. "That was the first song that we actually played live from the album, and funnily enough we never thought that was gonna be the first music video," the guitarist reflects. "The reason that we played that one live was because we thought 'Hey, we've got this mid-tempo, slow song. Let's play that live and throw that in the set.' If we played the old songs, almost every single one of them is fast. When we played with Iron Maiden, that was when we started playing that song for the first time. It became the first music video, just like some songs I didn't expect to be on the album like 'Seasons (Acoustic Version)'.
"We filmed a performance music video on purpose. We thought it'd be cool to approach it that way really, because the last one we did was all computer graphics generated stuff. We thought we would go back to the live stage performance stuff, and take it back to the basics. That's how we got known in the first place, doing lots of shows. In the old days we were totally the best live band, and then suddenly things changed."
Comments regarding 'the old days' inevitably spark questions about 'the new days'. "I think we play better than we've ever done before, but with the internet and incredible technology…," Herman begins. "On a mobile phone, it sounds like complete shit. It's kind of a fucking weird thing, because people don't really care about bands live in the same way we do. Years ago people judged bands live by going to live shows, instead of judging them by a compressed audio / video feed on a low resolution computer screen. Unfortunately a lot of uneducated people think this is what it is musically. That's how it sounds when the microphone in your smartphone is only supposed to pick up your voice, and not record a whole PA blasting out with that much bpm and that much intense music. It sounds like garbage. That's why a web stream always sounds horrible, because the compression is pretty lame these days. Especially all this so-called secure streaming or whatever that gets captured, it's always really bad quality anyway. That has changed what live music is all about.
"People think when you hear a band live they sound exactly like they do on the album, but live productions are supposed to sound totally different anyway. I think people have been blown away by the amount of music they hear, but they don't see enough shows to understand what shows are supposed to be like. If I went to see a band and they sounded exactly like they do on the album 100%, I would think something is wrong. It isn't humanly possible, but hey, people are accustomed to having a certain ear. Imagine you hear 100 albums, but just one show. You just don't know what's going on in a way, how live shows are supposed to sound."
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Officially released live material including Marc is yet to exist, but time can rectify this. "I've got equipment that I can take on tour to record, so we're probably gonna record some stuff anyway at least for ourselves to listen to," Marc's bandmate speculates. "That's to see what we're like, how we can improve on things, and how to get better. We're always looking at ways to improve the show. I think the way we play now compared to any time before is definitely the best we've ever played to date."
Slowing down the tempo in certain instances meant that additional guitar techniques could be implemented. "The guitar had to be played differently, the vibrato and the note choice and all that, techniques," Herman analyses. "When I say techniques, I mean techniques you use to express the music have to be done differently. I think there is a lot of emphasis on different bending of the notes, because when you've got a bit more time to play you've got a bit more time to use different techniques. When you're playing really fast you don't really have time to bend the notes, so that's something we worked on for this album."
Overall, The Power Within's tracks are among the shortest that DragonForce has ever recorded. "In some ways we thought that we should maybe compact it a bit, and make sure every single bit is good instead of having long melodic bits which are okay but not that amazing," the axeman divulges. "We just made sure that every bit punches you in the face, and kicks your ass kind of thing (laughs). Because of playing together, rehearsing, and jamming those songs before finishing the recording, that kind of changes the structures of the songs when everyone is playing them at the same time."
Lyrically speaking, The Power Within delves into a mixture of topics. "We've got some fantasy lyrics, and we've got stuff which is more straightforward which you can obviously hear are based on current events," Herman reveals. "'Give Me The Night' is actually about a problem with any kind of addiction. 'Seasons' is more of a personal relationship kind of song. That's weird to say in a DragonForce interview, actually (laughs). There's that, and then you've got 'Holding On' which is about current events. Things are really tough these days, so it has more of a positive message."
The record's cover artwork, meanwhile, is more simplistic. "It's just one way to approach it," the co-founder ponders. "With the last album we did something really complicated which I thought was really cool, very artistic. This time we've gone for a more simple approach. It's just a different approach. With every album we try to not do exactly the same as the last one, so this one is nothing like the Ultra Beatdown cover."
In the United Kingdom, the release of The Power Within will be handled by DragonForce's newly formed label Electric Generation Recordings. "If you look at what's happening these days, a lot of small labels are closing, bigger labels taking over the smaller ones and closing them, and all that kind of stuff," Herman notes. "We already went through that before; we were with Noise Records, and then Sanctuary took over. We pretty much made all the decisions before, and now it just makes it easier to control what's going on, like when we want the album out. It helps us to get on tour easier, for example. If anything doesn't work, it's our fault. We can't blame anyone. The main thing here is that we have control of the music. We don't have to worry in a year's time if the label actually gets closed down, and you have no-one to talk to and you can't do this and that. I've experienced that myself."
The Power Within marks the closing of one chapter, and the opening of another. "Things change pretty quickly these days," the guitarist contemplates. "Fortunately, we were never part of any scene which is the reason why we also took our time to release this album. We're not a part of any scene that we needed to catch up on. We just basically carry on doing the music we want to do, and if people like it then that's great. If not, then they don't (laughs). It's not gonna change the way we look at the music. If you think about it, if we followed what people say then we'd never even be here anyway – we wouldn't be playing this kind of music. If you look at the scene as it was in the UK ten years ago or whatever, it was completely different. If you played solos, people would just drop dead laughing at you. Now, apparently it's cool."
The Power Within was released on April 11th, 2012 through JVC Victor in Japan, on the 13th through 3Wise in Australia, and on the 15th through Electric Generation Recordings (distributed by Essential Music) in the United Kingdom. The full-length was subsequently issued on the 16th and 17th in the rest of Europe and North America respectively, all via Roadrunner Records.
French progressive metallers GOJIRA will release a new DVD/Blu-ray, "The Flesh Alive", in Europe on June 4 via Mascot. The three-disc set will chronicle the making of the band's 2008 album, "The Way Of All Flesh", and the touring activity that followed the CD's release.
"The Flesh Alive" track listing:
Disc 1:
01. Garorock Show: Oroborus
02. The Heaviest Matter Of The Universe
03. Backbone
04. Love
05. From The Skyg
06. A Sight To Behold
07. The Art Of Dying
08. Drum Solo
09. Clone
10. Flying Whales
11. The Way Of All Flesh
12. Terra Incognita
13. Vacuity
14. Les Vieilles Charrues Show: Lizard Skin
15. Indians
16. Toxic Garbage Island
17. World To Come
Disc 2:
01. Documentary "The Way Of All Flesh Inside"
02. Oroborus
03. The Heaviest Matter Of The Universe
04. Backbone
05. Flying Whales
06. Toxic Garbage Island
07. The Way Of All Flesh
08. Terra Incognita
09. Vacuity
CD:
01. Oroborus
02. The Heaviest Matter Of The Universe
03. Backbone
04. Love
05. From The Sky
06. A Sight To Behold
07. The Art Of Dying
08. Clone
09. Flying Whales
10. The Way Of All Flesh
11. Terra Incognita
12. Vacuity
GOJIRA's fifth album, "L'Enfant Sauvage", will be released on June 26 via Roadrunner Records. The CD (the title of which translates to "The Wild Child") features 11 tracks of mind-bending, thunderous metal.
The "L'Enfant Sauvage" title track will be released digitally on May 1.
"The Flesh Alive" track listing:
Disc 1:
01. Garorock Show: Oroborus
02. The Heaviest Matter Of The Universe
03. Backbone
04. Love
05. From The Skyg
06. A Sight To Behold
07. The Art Of Dying
08. Drum Solo
09. Clone
10. Flying Whales
11. The Way Of All Flesh
12. Terra Incognita
13. Vacuity
14. Les Vieilles Charrues Show: Lizard Skin
15. Indians
16. Toxic Garbage Island
17. World To Come
Disc 2:
01. Documentary "The Way Of All Flesh Inside"
02. Oroborus
03. The Heaviest Matter Of The Universe
04. Backbone
05. Flying Whales
06. Toxic Garbage Island
07. The Way Of All Flesh
08. Terra Incognita
09. Vacuity
CD:
01. Oroborus
02. The Heaviest Matter Of The Universe
03. Backbone
04. Love
05. From The Sky
06. A Sight To Behold
07. The Art Of Dying
08. Clone
09. Flying Whales
10. The Way Of All Flesh
11. Terra Incognita
12. Vacuity
GOJIRA's fifth album, "L'Enfant Sauvage", will be released on June 26 via Roadrunner Records. The CD (the title of which translates to "The Wild Child") features 11 tracks of mind-bending, thunderous metal.
The "L'Enfant Sauvage" title track will be released digitally on May 1.
Lacuna Coil are a gothic metal band from Milan, Italy, formed in 1994. Singers Andrea Ferro and Cristina Scabbia front the band and complement one another brilliantly. Lacuna Coil is equal parts melody and aggression, yet very accessible. Lacuna Coil got their big break in North America with their third full-length album, 2002's Comalies. The record featured the breakthrough tracks "Heaven's A Lie" and "Swamped," and landed Lacuna Coil opening slots on high-exposure tours, Ozzfest among them.
In January of 2012 Lacuna Coil released their latest album, Dark Adrenaline, produced by Don Gilmore (Linkin Park, Bullet for My Valentine), who also worked with the band on their earlier effort, Shallow Life. Originally, Lacuna Coil was to play at Portland's Aladdin Theater on Friday the 13th, however, as 'luck' would have it, the band experienced trouble with their tour bus and moved the show to the 15th of April. Lacuna Coil called this headlining tour the Dark Legacy Tour, in which they played three sets. The first set was an electrifying experience, opening with "I Don't Believe in Tomorrow" and "I Won't Tell You," then quickly launching into "Kill the Light." In addition to the fan favorites, "Heaven's a Lie" among them, Lacuna Coil dusted off the tracks "Senzafine" and "Circle" from the albums Unleashed Memories and In a Reverie, respectively. Lacuna Coil ended the first set with singers Cristina Scabbia and Andrea Ferro whipping the audience into a frenzy before the brief intermission.
Bassist Marco Coti Zelati
The stunning Cristina Scabbia surfaced a few minutes later with guitarists Cristiano "Pizza" Migliore and Marco "Maus" Biazzi with acoustic guitars in tow. Scabbia said, "We have been asked to do acoustic renditions of our songs in the past for radio. We're doing something different to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Lacuna Coil in these intimate settings. We hope you enjoy it." Cristina Scabbia's angelic vocals on "Falling" would sooth the most savage of beast and if there was ever a question that Lacuna Coil's music wouldn't translate well in stripped-down form, she easily erased any doubts. Andrea Ferro joined Scabbia center stage on a stool during their hit "Closer" from Karmacode. "Within Me," "End of Time," and the title track from Shallow Life closed out the acoustic set.
Lacuna Coil returned for their third set by opening up with "Our Truth" from Karmacode, which the Aladdin Theater audience received with a fanatical response. Among the highlights from the latter part of the show were the deep album track "1.19," and the new track, "Trip into Darkness," from Dark Adrenaline, which closed the set. Oddly enough, their breakthrough track "Swamped" was absent. After a few moments, Lacuna Coil returned to the stage for their encore. It's not the norm for a band to close their show with a new track – it has to be special to deserve that honor. The encore selection was "My Spirit," which they dedicated to their friend Peter Steele of Type O Negative, who passed away two years ago on April 14th. Just when you thought that team Scabbia and Ferro couldn't sing with more emotion, they did. In sports, coaches ask their players to leave everything out on the field. You could make the argument that Lacuna Coil left it all on that stage at the Aladdin Theater that night.
Oregon Music News' pre-gig interview with Lacuna Coil singer Cristina Scabbia
Your video clip for your cover of Depeche Mode's "Enjoy the Silence" has some footage that was clearly shot in Portland, Oregon. Where was the performance footage shot for that?
That's news to me. We shot all of the live performance parts in Los Angeles. The other footage that you're talking about was provided by the company that produced the music video, so I don't know where that was shot. I do find it curious that you mentioned that.
Your third album, Comalies, was a breakthrough album for you in North America and brought you continued success around the world. Did you know that the album was going to be huge for you?
No, it just happened. If you recall that by the time we did Ozzfest in 2004, Comalies had already been out for about two years. We had already established a following in Europe and we had done various tours with bands like Opeth. After Ozzfest, the song "Heaven's a Lie" took off and radio picked the song up; that helped a lot of people to become familiar with Lacuna Coil.
In the years since older fans feel that they've been alienated as a result of the Lacuna Coil's continued 'growth' with albums like Comalies, Kramacode, Shallow Life and now with Dark Adrenaline. What do you make of such a statement?
People's perception is like this. They were there from the beginning so they are connected to that period of Lacuna Coil. I can't think of many bands with a long career that are currently appreciated for their last album. To be honest with you, we've never really changed – an evolution isn't a change. We never stopped using heavy guitars, we never stopped playing heavier songs, I think we might write 'heavier' music now than we did in the past. I think for some reason people think that our early albums are 'more metal' but if I think about a song like "No Need to Explain" – which we'll be playing tonight – that was not a heavy song. If you take a close listen you could say it was almost a pop song.
Andrea Ferro belting one out
I think people's perception regarding our change has something to do with our look. If you look at Shallow Life, people didn't understand the way we were dressed – they were costumes. They were meant to make fun of the 'shallow life.' I was dressed up like a 'pop princess' and Andrea (Ferro) was dressed up like a 'hip-hop pimp.' People would come up to us and say, "You guys changed your look?!" I said, "What the fuck?! You think we're really going to be dressed up like that?! Didn't you see that we even enhanced my boobs on the photos just to make fun of this fake world?!" I bet you if we would have gone with the typical black look people wouldn't have said a thing. That's frustrating because you have to go with the most obvious choice, the more bland choice, so people will get it.
Dark Adrenaline was pushed back on a couple of occasions. Did you go back and re-cut or record more material?
No, what happened was that the In Flames record was doing very well, I think it was number one on the German charts and that affected everybody. The label wanted to put a lot of time on promoting our new album, but they had a chance to promote a band who was currently selling very well. During all of this we took the opportunity to remix Dark Adrenaline so the final product was released the way that we really wanted. I think it worked out very well, we postponed it for a little bit but we ended up with the album that we really wanted.
There's a track on Dark Adrenaline called "My Spirit" that is dedicated to the late Type O Negative front man, Peter Steele. Ironically, yesterday was the second anniversary of his death. I didn't know you guys were close with him. How far did you go back with him?
I'll be honest with you, Type O Negative and Paradise Lost are the reason I got into heavy music and why I'm doing this right now. I love their music to death. We got to be very close to not only Peter but the rest of the band. I found that I wasn't only connected to their music but to them as people through our friendship. We still see (drummer) Johnny (Kelley) and (guitarist) Kenny (Hickey) when we're in New York or if they're in Italy. We cross paths on the road and make time for each other. (pause) I still miss Peter a lot… it was some crazy news. Just when I thought he was doing better, then a month later Paul Gray (Slipknot bassist) passed too. (pause) Everything dies… everyone dies.
What was the inspiration behind the short film that accompanies the deluxe version of Dark Adrenaline? I've been watching it trying to make sense of it. I don't know if it's linked to the songs or what? Tell us about that.
(laughs) We tried to make it confusing! Basically the concept behind it is that there is a 'dark liquid' that, if injected with it, can make you live an alternate reality. It can make you have visions. In the video we started with my visions where I'm trapped by myself – that being a different side of me. I get injected and I start having visions of the other members of the band. It was mainly done as an artistic visual piece and each clip of the band members was connected in some way to the individual. I truly like the duality of my clip because I really believe that there is a part of good and a part of bad in every person – even if at times we don't want to admit it.
Always bet on 'black'
You're digging deep into the Lacuna Coil back catalog on this tour. What inspired this? Was it fan feedback or the band wanting to go for it?
It was a little bit of both; we wanted to have a special show because this year is the 15th year of our career. So we knew we wanted to do something special to celebrate this occasion. So we decided that we'd play some songs from the Dark Adrenaline album but we'd do some of the older songs. We'll be playing songs like "Circle," "Self Deception," "No Need to Explain," and "Falling." Songs that we haven't played in a longtime. Then we thought we'd do a little more so we are playing a two-hour show, split into three parts with an acoustic set in the middle. I really liked the idea of doing an acoustic performance because it's intimate and like a jam in your living room. We'll end again with the second part electric set for a last punch. We'll be back later in the year with a tour for the Dark Adrenaline album with a complete production.
In recent years bands have done an entire album from top to bottom to celebrate a special occasion or anniversary. Is there a particular album that you would like to perform in its entirety if given the opportunity?
We've thought about that. We thought about doing that on this tour with Comalies but we thought we'd do something for the longtime fans. Who knows? We might still do an entire album in the future – there's always time for that. We went for a balance on this tour and I think it's appreciated by the fans.
What's the biggest misconception that Americas have about Italians?
(pause) Oh, there are so many! Maybe that we are all in the mafia… I would probably say that is the biggest one. I think the rest is pretty much true; we're really noisy, we're really passionate, we love food, and we use our hands a lot when we talk! (laughs)
If you could select one album out of your back catalog that defines Lacuna Coil, which album would it be?
I would say Dark Adrenaline because it is the perfect balance between the old and new. You'll hear the new influences and a heavier sound. You'll also hear a lot of references from previous albums like "Kill the Lights," which could have come off the Comalies album.
Finnish/Swedish symphonic metallers NIGHTWISH kicked off the current leg of their European tour on April 10 in Gothenburg, Sweden.
In a new posting on her official blog, NIGHTWISH singer Anette Olzon writes, "So, time to write some words about how the tour is going after these first shows.
"Well, it has been so great seeing so big audiences everywhere and even if every crowd is different, you all have made us so happy and energized, which is needed when you do so many gigs and travel so much.
"For me, the tour has started good but I got the finger injury and also have had a bad flu that Tuomas [Holopainen, keyboards] had and I got it quite fast after starting this leg. I feel better now, so that's good.
"Being on tour always makes you tired and ill here and there, and for me, as the singer, I of course feel a bit more stressed when I get a bug or get really tired and exhausted. Being on stage for 1 hour 45 minutes singing almost every night is a hard job and if you then have a bad throat or something that affects the voice, it makes it an ever harder job. But when you go out on stage and are feeling ill, just hearing you in the audience scream and sing along makes it much easier so just so you know — keep on screaming and sing — we love it!!
"Tonight it's Frankfurt and not the biggest crowd, like tomorrow in Zurich, but sometimes the smaller crowds actually are louder than the bigger crowds so we'll see tonight.
"Now I'll rest and eat, I always meditate before a show to relax my mind and fill my energy levels. Then I put on my outfit, start doing make-up and 45 minutes before the show I start to warm up the voice. I sing all day to keep it open but the real warm-up happens 45 minutes before. We play at 8:45 p.m. most nights but some nights it's 9 or 9:15 and I like the earlier nights more, 'cause that makes me get more sleep before we need to travel to next place. Tomorrow it's about 5.5-6 hours of drive so a bit early wake-up for me. I am that kinda person that needs at least 8 hours of sleep to sing well and not be all cranky.
"And this week we have our off-day in Milan and that's the off day I've longed for 'cause I'll do some shopping there. Fashion mecca."
NIGHTWISH will embark on a North American headlining tour in September with support from KAMELOT.
For more information, visit EnterTheVault.com.
NIGHTWISH released a limited-edition "Trials Of Imaginaerum" 10-inch picture disc for Record Store Day (April 21). The effort includes four previously unreleased demo recordings with Marco Hietala on lead vocals. It also comes with a download of the previously unreleased track "The Heart Asks Pleasure First", a cover with lyrics from the movie "The Piano".
"Trials Of Imaginaerum" features a picture of "The Crew, The Owl And The Dove" on one side, and the "Imaginaerum" grounds on the other side.
"The Crow, The Owl And The Dove", the second single from NIGHTWISH's latest album, "Imaginaerum", entered the official chart in Finland at position No. 1. The single features the title cut in three versions — radio edit, album version and instrumental — and the previously unreleased song "The Heart Asks Pleasure First" (theme from the movie "The Piano") in two different versions.
NIGHTWISH released a special "tour edition" of "Imaginaerum", on April 13 via Nuclear Blast Records. It is a 2CD+DVD digibook in slipcase.
"Imaginaerum" sold 12,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 27 on The Billboard 200 chart. The band's previous CD, 2007's "Dark Passion Play", opened with 11,000 units to land at No. 84.
"Imaginaerum" was released in North America on January 10 via Roadrunner Records.
In a new posting on her official blog, NIGHTWISH singer Anette Olzon writes, "So, time to write some words about how the tour is going after these first shows.
"Well, it has been so great seeing so big audiences everywhere and even if every crowd is different, you all have made us so happy and energized, which is needed when you do so many gigs and travel so much.
"For me, the tour has started good but I got the finger injury and also have had a bad flu that Tuomas [Holopainen, keyboards] had and I got it quite fast after starting this leg. I feel better now, so that's good.
"Being on tour always makes you tired and ill here and there, and for me, as the singer, I of course feel a bit more stressed when I get a bug or get really tired and exhausted. Being on stage for 1 hour 45 minutes singing almost every night is a hard job and if you then have a bad throat or something that affects the voice, it makes it an ever harder job. But when you go out on stage and are feeling ill, just hearing you in the audience scream and sing along makes it much easier so just so you know — keep on screaming and sing — we love it!!
"Tonight it's Frankfurt and not the biggest crowd, like tomorrow in Zurich, but sometimes the smaller crowds actually are louder than the bigger crowds so we'll see tonight.
"Now I'll rest and eat, I always meditate before a show to relax my mind and fill my energy levels. Then I put on my outfit, start doing make-up and 45 minutes before the show I start to warm up the voice. I sing all day to keep it open but the real warm-up happens 45 minutes before. We play at 8:45 p.m. most nights but some nights it's 9 or 9:15 and I like the earlier nights more, 'cause that makes me get more sleep before we need to travel to next place. Tomorrow it's about 5.5-6 hours of drive so a bit early wake-up for me. I am that kinda person that needs at least 8 hours of sleep to sing well and not be all cranky.
"And this week we have our off-day in Milan and that's the off day I've longed for 'cause I'll do some shopping there. Fashion mecca."
NIGHTWISH will embark on a North American headlining tour in September with support from KAMELOT.
For more information, visit EnterTheVault.com.
NIGHTWISH released a limited-edition "Trials Of Imaginaerum" 10-inch picture disc for Record Store Day (April 21). The effort includes four previously unreleased demo recordings with Marco Hietala on lead vocals. It also comes with a download of the previously unreleased track "The Heart Asks Pleasure First", a cover with lyrics from the movie "The Piano".
"Trials Of Imaginaerum" features a picture of "The Crew, The Owl And The Dove" on one side, and the "Imaginaerum" grounds on the other side.
"The Crow, The Owl And The Dove", the second single from NIGHTWISH's latest album, "Imaginaerum", entered the official chart in Finland at position No. 1. The single features the title cut in three versions — radio edit, album version and instrumental — and the previously unreleased song "The Heart Asks Pleasure First" (theme from the movie "The Piano") in two different versions.
NIGHTWISH released a special "tour edition" of "Imaginaerum", on April 13 via Nuclear Blast Records. It is a 2CD+DVD digibook in slipcase.
"Imaginaerum" sold 12,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 27 on The Billboard 200 chart. The band's previous CD, 2007's "Dark Passion Play", opened with 11,000 units to land at No. 84.
"Imaginaerum" was released in North America on January 10 via Roadrunner Records.
'80s hard rock queen Lita Ford will release her new album, "Living Like A Runaway", on June 19 in North America via SPV/Steamhammer. The effort will be available in four configurations: a double LP, limited edition CD, standard CD and digital download. The artwork for the album was created by famed rock photographer Mark Weiss can seen below.
Standard jewel case version:
01. Branded
02. Hate
03. The Mask
04. Living Like A Runaway
05. Relentless
06. Mother
07. Devil In My Head
08. Asylum
09. Love 2 Hate U
10. A Song To Slit Your Wrists By
Limited edition digipak version:
01. Branded
02. Hate
03. The Mask
04. Living Like A Runaway
05. Relentless
06. Mother
07. Devil In My Head
08. Asylum
09. Love 2 Hate U
10. A Song To Slit Your Wrists By
Bonus tracks:
11. Bad Neighborhood
12. The Bitch Is Back
Exclusive iTunes version:
01. Branded
02. Hate
03. The Mask
04. Living Like A Runaway
05. Relentless
06. Mother
07. Devil In My Head
08. Asylum
09. Love 2 Hate U
10. A Song To Slit Your Wrists By
Exclusive iTunes bonus track:
11. Boiling Point
Double Gatefold LP Version:
LP Side 1:
01. Branded
02. Hate
03. The Mask
LP Side 2:
01. Relentless
02. Devil In My Head
03. Asylum
LP Side 3:
01. Living Like A Runaway
02. Mother
03. A Song To Slit Your Wrists By
LP Side 4:
01. Love 2 Hate You
Bonus tracks:
02. Bad Neighborhood
03. The Bitch Is Back
Lita Ford has teamed up with producer Gary Hoey and lyricist Michael Dan Ehmig to work on "Living Like a Runaway". Together the team invested a lot of time and effort into this kick-ass project.
"We worked on the lyrics intensively to really give the songs a lot of meaning and that special emotional depth," says Lita. "I think that these are some of the best lyrics ever, period." Ford is referring to numbers such as "Devil In My Head", "Hate" and "The Asylum", which see her bare her soul in a way which she has never done before.
Unlike many albums today, "Living Like a Runaway" is an album that truly must be heard in its entirety from start to finish.
"Listeners shouldn't pick out individual tracks but listen to the full album," says Ford. "It's a fascinating musical journey, inspired by PINK FLOYD's 'Dark Side Of The Moon'. I had seen a documentary about 'Dark Side Of The Moon' and it really motivated me to focus on 'Living Like a Runaway' as a whole journey rather just an individual song."
Coinciding with the album's release, Lita will hit the road this summer with DEF LEPPARD and POISON on the "Rock Of Ages Tour".
Lita is looking forward to the tour and getting to play the new songs live.
"We are honored with this awesome tour and being able to play with these brilliant musicians," she says. "So strap in tight, it's going to be one powerful journey."
Best known for her work with THE RUNAWAYS and her solo career, including hit singles "Kiss Me Deadly" and the Billboard-charting duet with Ozzy Osbourne, "Close My Eyes Forever", Lita is ready to make a return to the throne as the queen of metal.
"Living Like A Runaway" represents a return to form for Lita, who drew inspiration from her "ugly divorce" from NITRO singer Jim Gillette.
"Gary Hoey and I wanted to approach this record by getting back to basics," she said. "We want to strip away all the electronics and plug-ins and keep it to vocals, guitar, bass, and drums. Going back to basics is going back to what punk, metal and THE RUNAWAYS was for me."
She added, "[The album title] 'Living Like A Runaway' means freedom and empowerment. To do what I want and to pursue my dreams while answering to no one."
In a 2011 interview with Classic Rock Revisited, Lita said that "Living Like A Runaway" will be her "real comeback album." She explained, "The last album I did was called 'Wicked Wonderland', I put it out with Jim Gillette, and we were married at the time. It is kind of a Jim/Lita album and not a really true Lita album. I got a lot of spiel about that. A lot of people have told me that they want a real Lita album, and I know what they mean. They are going to get it."
She continued, "I really wasn't that comfortable with 'Wicked Wonderland' — not at all, to tell you the truth. There are parts of it that are good but it doesn't sound like a Lita record. When it got released, a lot of my fans felt weird about it and said it wasn't a Lita album. This time I want to do it on my own. The last one turned out to be more of a Jim album. We worked pretty well together. It doesn't suck, it's not a bad album; it's just not a Lita album."
Lita and Jim are the parents of two sons, Rocco and James.
Standard jewel case version:
01. Branded
02. Hate
03. The Mask
04. Living Like A Runaway
05. Relentless
06. Mother
07. Devil In My Head
08. Asylum
09. Love 2 Hate U
10. A Song To Slit Your Wrists By
Limited edition digipak version:
01. Branded
02. Hate
03. The Mask
04. Living Like A Runaway
05. Relentless
06. Mother
07. Devil In My Head
08. Asylum
09. Love 2 Hate U
10. A Song To Slit Your Wrists By
Bonus tracks:
11. Bad Neighborhood
12. The Bitch Is Back
Exclusive iTunes version:
01. Branded
02. Hate
03. The Mask
04. Living Like A Runaway
05. Relentless
06. Mother
07. Devil In My Head
08. Asylum
09. Love 2 Hate U
10. A Song To Slit Your Wrists By
Exclusive iTunes bonus track:
11. Boiling Point
Double Gatefold LP Version:
LP Side 1:
01. Branded
02. Hate
03. The Mask
LP Side 2:
01. Relentless
02. Devil In My Head
03. Asylum
LP Side 3:
01. Living Like A Runaway
02. Mother
03. A Song To Slit Your Wrists By
LP Side 4:
01. Love 2 Hate You
Bonus tracks:
02. Bad Neighborhood
03. The Bitch Is Back
Lita Ford has teamed up with producer Gary Hoey and lyricist Michael Dan Ehmig to work on "Living Like a Runaway". Together the team invested a lot of time and effort into this kick-ass project.
"We worked on the lyrics intensively to really give the songs a lot of meaning and that special emotional depth," says Lita. "I think that these are some of the best lyrics ever, period." Ford is referring to numbers such as "Devil In My Head", "Hate" and "The Asylum", which see her bare her soul in a way which she has never done before.
Unlike many albums today, "Living Like a Runaway" is an album that truly must be heard in its entirety from start to finish.
"Listeners shouldn't pick out individual tracks but listen to the full album," says Ford. "It's a fascinating musical journey, inspired by PINK FLOYD's 'Dark Side Of The Moon'. I had seen a documentary about 'Dark Side Of The Moon' and it really motivated me to focus on 'Living Like a Runaway' as a whole journey rather just an individual song."
Coinciding with the album's release, Lita will hit the road this summer with DEF LEPPARD and POISON on the "Rock Of Ages Tour".
Lita is looking forward to the tour and getting to play the new songs live.
"We are honored with this awesome tour and being able to play with these brilliant musicians," she says. "So strap in tight, it's going to be one powerful journey."
Best known for her work with THE RUNAWAYS and her solo career, including hit singles "Kiss Me Deadly" and the Billboard-charting duet with Ozzy Osbourne, "Close My Eyes Forever", Lita is ready to make a return to the throne as the queen of metal.
"Living Like A Runaway" represents a return to form for Lita, who drew inspiration from her "ugly divorce" from NITRO singer Jim Gillette.
"Gary Hoey and I wanted to approach this record by getting back to basics," she said. "We want to strip away all the electronics and plug-ins and keep it to vocals, guitar, bass, and drums. Going back to basics is going back to what punk, metal and THE RUNAWAYS was for me."
She added, "[The album title] 'Living Like A Runaway' means freedom and empowerment. To do what I want and to pursue my dreams while answering to no one."
In a 2011 interview with Classic Rock Revisited, Lita said that "Living Like A Runaway" will be her "real comeback album." She explained, "The last album I did was called 'Wicked Wonderland', I put it out with Jim Gillette, and we were married at the time. It is kind of a Jim/Lita album and not a really true Lita album. I got a lot of spiel about that. A lot of people have told me that they want a real Lita album, and I know what they mean. They are going to get it."
She continued, "I really wasn't that comfortable with 'Wicked Wonderland' — not at all, to tell you the truth. There are parts of it that are good but it doesn't sound like a Lita record. When it got released, a lot of my fans felt weird about it and said it wasn't a Lita album. This time I want to do it on my own. The last one turned out to be more of a Jim album. We worked pretty well together. It doesn't suck, it's not a bad album; it's just not a Lita album."
Lita and Jim are the parents of two sons, Rocco and James.
Finnish melodic metallers BURNING POINT will release their new album, "The Ignitor", on June 19 via Scarlet Records. The CD was recorded at HelGate and Reindeer Horns Studios and mastered at Tico Tico Studios (SONATA ARCTICA, SENTENCED) by Ahti Kortelainen. The cover artwork was created by Felipe Machado Franco (BLIND GUARDIAN, RHAPSODY OF FIRE, IRON SAVIOR).
"The Ignitor" track listing:
01. Eternal Flame (Salvation By Fire Part 2)
02. In The Fire's Of My Self-Made Hell
03. In The Night
04. The Ignitor
05. Silent Scream
06. Heaven Is Hell
07. Losing Sleep
08. Demon Inside Of You
09. Everdream
10. Lost Tribe
11. Holier Than Thou
Listen to "The Ignitor" title track using the SoundCloud player below.
According to a press release, "No other title could be more appropriate to describe an album that truly ignites all the elements that BURNING POINT are about. The band have come a long way round musically and you can really hear it in their music. 'The Ignitor' takes all the good things from its predecessors, throwing them into a whirlwind of heavy metal and from the eye of the storm rises what can be easily considered the Finns' masterpiece."
BURNING POINT's fourth album, "Empyre", came out in February 2009.
BURNING POINT is:
Pete Ahonen – Vocals, Guitar
Pekka Kolivuori - Guitar
Jukka Jokikokko - Bass
Pasi Hiltula - Keyboards
Jussi Ontero - Drums
"The Ignitor" track listing:
01. Eternal Flame (Salvation By Fire Part 2)
02. In The Fire's Of My Self-Made Hell
03. In The Night
04. The Ignitor
05. Silent Scream
06. Heaven Is Hell
07. Losing Sleep
08. Demon Inside Of You
09. Everdream
10. Lost Tribe
11. Holier Than Thou
Listen to "The Ignitor" title track using the SoundCloud player below.
According to a press release, "No other title could be more appropriate to describe an album that truly ignites all the elements that BURNING POINT are about. The band have come a long way round musically and you can really hear it in their music. 'The Ignitor' takes all the good things from its predecessors, throwing them into a whirlwind of heavy metal and from the eye of the storm rises what can be easily considered the Finns' masterpiece."
BURNING POINT's fourth album, "Empyre", came out in February 2009.
BURNING POINT is:
Pete Ahonen – Vocals, Guitar
Pekka Kolivuori - Guitar
Jukka Jokikokko - Bass
Pasi Hiltula - Keyboards
Jussi Ontero - Drums
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/soulflypremiere/burningpointignitor.jpg
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/soulflypremiere/burningpointbandnew.jpg
"When Worlds Collide", the full-length album from THE CORY SMOOT EXPERIMENT — the solo project of GWAR guitarist Cory Smoot before his untimely death last fall — will be released on June 5 via Metal Balde Records.
THE CORY SMOOT EXPERIMENT's CD was recorded in 2010 at Cory's Karma Studios, where GWAR, MUNICIPAL WASTE and many others have laid down tracks. The songs were originally meant for a concept album called "Religion Is Fiction". Cory was going to lay down all the tracks and then get some of his favorite singers from the internationally acclaimed Richmond metal scene to do the vocals, including GWAR lead singer Dave Brockie and LAMB OF GOD's Randy Blythe. Unfortunately, this didn't happen due to scheduling problems, but that didn't mean the end of the project. Cory went ahead and recorded the vocals himself and renamed the project THE CORY SMOOT EXPERIMENT, completing the entire package just before his final tour with GWAR in the fall of 2012.
After his passing, GWAR and Metal Blade set up the Smoot Family Fund to help provide for Cory's family. All proceeds from this album will be donated to this fund.
Metal Blade Records Chairman and CEO Brian Slagel commented on the album's release: "Metal Blade Records is donating all the proceeds of the Cory Smoot solo album to the Smoot family. Please help us by getting the CD and enjoying the immense talent he was."
Dave Brockie, a.k.a. Oderus Urungus, lead singer of GWAR, shared his memories of Cory: "Cory Smoot is one of the great unsung heroes of metal. His musical abilities transformed GWAR from a splatter-thrash phenomena into a top metal act. And though he may have left us way too early, he left us a lifetime of music to listen to. He tore it up like few others, and will always be remembered as the true Flattus Maximus. We really loved the man, and there is not a day that goes by or a GWAR show that is played where he is not sorely missed"
"When Worlds Collide" track listing:
01. The Blood Red
02. Fortunate Son
03. Religion is Fiction
04. Rebirth
05. Brainfade
06. Mandatory Purgatory
07. Countdown to Oblivion
08. The Gauntlet
09. When Worlds Collide
10. Mutilation
11. Hollow Tree
12. Sloth Loves Chunk
Smoot died from a coronary artery thrombosis brought about by his pre-existing coronary artery disease
Cory, who had played the character of Flattus Maximus for over ten years, was discovered dead on the band's tour bus on November 3, 2011. He was 34 years old.
Smoot joined GWAR in 2002 and first appeared on the band's 2004 album "War Party". He was the fifth guitarist to play the character of Flattus Maximus, known by his red face, white dreadlocks, dinosaur-head shoulder pads and reptile feet.
Born August 25, 1977, Smoot previously played in metal bands MISGUIDED and LOCUS FACTOR and continued to play with MENSREA, in addition to establishing his own solo project, THE CORY SMOOT EXPERIMENT.
THE CORY SMOOT EXPERIMENT's CD was recorded in 2010 at Cory's Karma Studios, where GWAR, MUNICIPAL WASTE and many others have laid down tracks. The songs were originally meant for a concept album called "Religion Is Fiction". Cory was going to lay down all the tracks and then get some of his favorite singers from the internationally acclaimed Richmond metal scene to do the vocals, including GWAR lead singer Dave Brockie and LAMB OF GOD's Randy Blythe. Unfortunately, this didn't happen due to scheduling problems, but that didn't mean the end of the project. Cory went ahead and recorded the vocals himself and renamed the project THE CORY SMOOT EXPERIMENT, completing the entire package just before his final tour with GWAR in the fall of 2012.
After his passing, GWAR and Metal Blade set up the Smoot Family Fund to help provide for Cory's family. All proceeds from this album will be donated to this fund.
Metal Blade Records Chairman and CEO Brian Slagel commented on the album's release: "Metal Blade Records is donating all the proceeds of the Cory Smoot solo album to the Smoot family. Please help us by getting the CD and enjoying the immense talent he was."
Dave Brockie, a.k.a. Oderus Urungus, lead singer of GWAR, shared his memories of Cory: "Cory Smoot is one of the great unsung heroes of metal. His musical abilities transformed GWAR from a splatter-thrash phenomena into a top metal act. And though he may have left us way too early, he left us a lifetime of music to listen to. He tore it up like few others, and will always be remembered as the true Flattus Maximus. We really loved the man, and there is not a day that goes by or a GWAR show that is played where he is not sorely missed"
"When Worlds Collide" track listing:
01. The Blood Red
02. Fortunate Son
03. Religion is Fiction
04. Rebirth
05. Brainfade
06. Mandatory Purgatory
07. Countdown to Oblivion
08. The Gauntlet
09. When Worlds Collide
10. Mutilation
11. Hollow Tree
12. Sloth Loves Chunk
Smoot died from a coronary artery thrombosis brought about by his pre-existing coronary artery disease
Cory, who had played the character of Flattus Maximus for over ten years, was discovered dead on the band's tour bus on November 3, 2011. He was 34 years old.
Smoot joined GWAR in 2002 and first appeared on the band's 2004 album "War Party". He was the fifth guitarist to play the character of Flattus Maximus, known by his red face, white dreadlocks, dinosaur-head shoulder pads and reptile feet.
Born August 25, 1977, Smoot previously played in metal bands MISGUIDED and LOCUS FACTOR and continued to play with MENSREA, in addition to establishing his own solo project, THE CORY SMOOT EXPERIMENT.
EPHEL DUATH, the formerly Italian, currently U.S.-based band which is known as a modern mixture of avant-garde metal and progressive rock with jazz-fusion and hardcore punk elements, will release its new EP, "On Death And Cosmos", on June 21 in Europe and August 14 in the U.S. via Agonia Records. The CD cover artwork was created by visionary French artist Dehn Sora and can be seen below.
"On Death And Cosmos" is a 20-minute mini-concept EP that develops through three songs — "Black Prism", "Raqia" and "Stardust Rain" — creating some of the most intense and mournful music EPHEL DUATH has ever offered. The lyrics are about death and abandonment, loss and self- transforming will: a dive into the darkness that can reveal a new birth in light.
EPHEL DUATH's new EP was recorded at Sharkbyte Studios (MACHINE HEAD, EXODUS, HIGH ON FIRE) in Oakland, California. The effort features guest appearances by Steve DiGiorgio (DEATH, TESTAMENT, SADUS, OBSCURA), Karyn Crisis (CRISIS) and Marco Minemann (PAUL GILBERT, NECROPHAGIST, KREATOR, TONY MACALPINE). The CD was mixed by Erik Rutan at his Mana Recording Studio (CANNIBAL CORPSE, HATE ETERNAL, GOATWHORE, AGNOSTIC FRONT) in St. Petersburg, Florida. Alan Douches mastered the material at West West Side Music (DEATH, SWANS, MASTODON, CONVERGE, BARONESS, THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN, CLUTCH) in New Windsor, New York.
EPHEL DUATH's current recording lineup:
Davide Tiso - Guitar
Karyn Crisis - Vocals
Steve DiGiorgio - Bass
Marco Minemann – Drums
"On Death And Cosmos" is a 20-minute mini-concept EP that develops through three songs — "Black Prism", "Raqia" and "Stardust Rain" — creating some of the most intense and mournful music EPHEL DUATH has ever offered. The lyrics are about death and abandonment, loss and self- transforming will: a dive into the darkness that can reveal a new birth in light.
EPHEL DUATH's new EP was recorded at Sharkbyte Studios (MACHINE HEAD, EXODUS, HIGH ON FIRE) in Oakland, California. The effort features guest appearances by Steve DiGiorgio (DEATH, TESTAMENT, SADUS, OBSCURA), Karyn Crisis (CRISIS) and Marco Minemann (PAUL GILBERT, NECROPHAGIST, KREATOR, TONY MACALPINE). The CD was mixed by Erik Rutan at his Mana Recording Studio (CANNIBAL CORPSE, HATE ETERNAL, GOATWHORE, AGNOSTIC FRONT) in St. Petersburg, Florida. Alan Douches mastered the material at West West Side Music (DEATH, SWANS, MASTODON, CONVERGE, BARONESS, THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN, CLUTCH) in New Windsor, New York.
EPHEL DUATH's current recording lineup:
Davide Tiso - Guitar
Karyn Crisis - Vocals
Steve DiGiorgio - Bass
Marco Minemann – Drums
PUSCIFER, the eclectic music-meets-comedy troupe helmed by Maynard James Keenan (TOOL, A PERFECT CIRCLE), will launch its third tour in support of its sophomore album, "Conditions Of My Parole", on June 9 at Bonnaroo. The three-week trek will include a stop at the River's Edge Music Festival in St. Paul, Minnespta.
Tickets for all shows go on-sale Friday, April 27 via venue box offices, as well as venue and promoter web sites. A limited number of "Community Service" VIP packages will be available simultaneously via puscifer.frontgatetickets.com. These will not be available for the band's Bonnaroo or River's Edge Music Festival performances.
The dates are as follows:
June 09 - Manchester, TN - Bonnaroo Festival
June 11 - Tampa, FL - Ferguson Hall - Tampa Performing Arts Center
June 12 - Miami, FL - Olympia Theatre - Gusman Performing Arts Center
June 13 - Orlando, FL - Hard Rock Live
June 15 - Baltimore, MD - Lyric Opera House
June 16 - Asbury Park, NJ - Paramount Theatre
June 17 - Reading, PA - Soverign Performing Arts Center
June 18 - Richmond, VA - The National
June 20 - Buffalo, NY - Riviera Theatre
June 21 - Columbus, OH - LC Indoor Pavilion
June 24 - St. Paul, MN - River's Edge Festival
June 27 - Houston, TX - Bayou Music Center
June 28 - San Antonio, TX - Lila Cockrell Theatre
June 30 - Prescott, AZ - Yavapai College Performance Arts Center
PUSCIFER was the musical guest on the February 16 episode of ABC-TV's "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" (which actually aired the morning of Friday, February 17). You can now watch the "Telling Ghosts" and "Toma" performances below.
"Telling Ghosts" and "Toma" come off PUSCIFER's sophomore album "Conditions Of My Parole", which was released last October via Puscifer Entertainment.
The band's live performances are not to be missed. Keenan brings the unconventional atmosphere of the Verde Valley to life with a musically driven evening that merges technology, quirky characters and comedy. The Boston Globe referred to the shows as "musical theater" and the Philadelphia Weekly described the set as an "engaging performance with hilarious pre-recorded between-song skits featuring MJK alter-egos Major Douche and white-trash hero Billy D."
PUSCIFER's touring bandmembers are Maynard James Keenan, Mat Mitchell, Josh Eustis, Carina Round, Matt McJunkins and Jeff Friedl.
Tickets for all shows go on-sale Friday, April 27 via venue box offices, as well as venue and promoter web sites. A limited number of "Community Service" VIP packages will be available simultaneously via puscifer.frontgatetickets.com. These will not be available for the band's Bonnaroo or River's Edge Music Festival performances.
The dates are as follows:
June 09 - Manchester, TN - Bonnaroo Festival
June 11 - Tampa, FL - Ferguson Hall - Tampa Performing Arts Center
June 12 - Miami, FL - Olympia Theatre - Gusman Performing Arts Center
June 13 - Orlando, FL - Hard Rock Live
June 15 - Baltimore, MD - Lyric Opera House
June 16 - Asbury Park, NJ - Paramount Theatre
June 17 - Reading, PA - Soverign Performing Arts Center
June 18 - Richmond, VA - The National
June 20 - Buffalo, NY - Riviera Theatre
June 21 - Columbus, OH - LC Indoor Pavilion
June 24 - St. Paul, MN - River's Edge Festival
June 27 - Houston, TX - Bayou Music Center
June 28 - San Antonio, TX - Lila Cockrell Theatre
June 30 - Prescott, AZ - Yavapai College Performance Arts Center
PUSCIFER was the musical guest on the February 16 episode of ABC-TV's "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" (which actually aired the morning of Friday, February 17). You can now watch the "Telling Ghosts" and "Toma" performances below.
"Telling Ghosts" and "Toma" come off PUSCIFER's sophomore album "Conditions Of My Parole", which was released last October via Puscifer Entertainment.
The band's live performances are not to be missed. Keenan brings the unconventional atmosphere of the Verde Valley to life with a musically driven evening that merges technology, quirky characters and comedy. The Boston Globe referred to the shows as "musical theater" and the Philadelphia Weekly described the set as an "engaging performance with hilarious pre-recorded between-song skits featuring MJK alter-egos Major Douche and white-trash hero Billy D."
PUSCIFER's touring bandmembers are Maynard James Keenan, Mat Mitchell, Josh Eustis, Carina Round, Matt McJunkins and Jeff Friedl.
THE OVERSEER, the latest addition to the Solid State Records roster, will release its debut album, "We Search, We Dig", on June 19.
The surging hard rock outfit has been dominating the underground circuit of late with a relentless touring schedule and a rousing catalog of dynamic material that has been turning heads while also setting them apart from their peers. Not content to simply be another voice in a crowded music scene, THE OVERSEER have three goals with their songs: to elevate, to transport the listener to a place that's emotionally honest ... and to stir up one hell of a mess in the moshpit.
All of those elements are on full Technicolor display in "We Search, We Dig". Recorded earlier this year at Atlanta's Glow In The Dark studios, the album is a huge, dynamic debut that calls to mind artists like UNDEROATH, THRICE and CAVE IN though with a clear, distinct voice that never emulates those artists directly. The band's debut single, "Secrets", perfectly encapsulates that approach and is available now on iTunes.
"'We Search, We Dig' is an aggressive rock record that's going to be a refreshing sound to this generation and today's music scene," says bassist Bradley Riggs. "Fans are really going to love the expected heavy aspect of the album... But it's not a 'breakdown' heavy, exactly.The album has a lot of smooth softer rhythms and melodies that really set up big impacting choruses and riffs."
For THE OVERSEER, "We Search, We Dig" is just as much an album of self discovery as it is the work of a band with a clear vision.
"The end of the second track, 'Dredge', has the lyrics 'We search, we dig,'" explains vocalist Anthony Rivera. "That is a theme of the whole record, not just that track in particular — the idea that people are searching for hope, digging for truth and going through trials full of highs and lows. The record reflects on both extremes of the journey through the eyes of the band members."
Proving they've got the work ethic to back up their talent, THE OVERSEER have spent 400 days over the last two years touring as an unsigned band and winning over the fans the good, old-fashioned way: By playing their hearts out and grabbing listeners by the throat with an artful brand of dynamic, hard-hitting rock. It's been a fruitful run for THE OVERSEER — if not always glamorous. "There's really nothing like sleeping in a van in a different Walmart parking lot every night and showering once a week — or less," laughs Riggs.
The surging hard rock outfit has been dominating the underground circuit of late with a relentless touring schedule and a rousing catalog of dynamic material that has been turning heads while also setting them apart from their peers. Not content to simply be another voice in a crowded music scene, THE OVERSEER have three goals with their songs: to elevate, to transport the listener to a place that's emotionally honest ... and to stir up one hell of a mess in the moshpit.
All of those elements are on full Technicolor display in "We Search, We Dig". Recorded earlier this year at Atlanta's Glow In The Dark studios, the album is a huge, dynamic debut that calls to mind artists like UNDEROATH, THRICE and CAVE IN though with a clear, distinct voice that never emulates those artists directly. The band's debut single, "Secrets", perfectly encapsulates that approach and is available now on iTunes.
"'We Search, We Dig' is an aggressive rock record that's going to be a refreshing sound to this generation and today's music scene," says bassist Bradley Riggs. "Fans are really going to love the expected heavy aspect of the album... But it's not a 'breakdown' heavy, exactly.The album has a lot of smooth softer rhythms and melodies that really set up big impacting choruses and riffs."
For THE OVERSEER, "We Search, We Dig" is just as much an album of self discovery as it is the work of a band with a clear vision.
"The end of the second track, 'Dredge', has the lyrics 'We search, we dig,'" explains vocalist Anthony Rivera. "That is a theme of the whole record, not just that track in particular — the idea that people are searching for hope, digging for truth and going through trials full of highs and lows. The record reflects on both extremes of the journey through the eyes of the band members."
Proving they've got the work ethic to back up their talent, THE OVERSEER have spent 400 days over the last two years touring as an unsigned band and winning over the fans the good, old-fashioned way: By playing their hearts out and grabbing listeners by the throat with an artful brand of dynamic, hard-hitting rock. It's been a fruitful run for THE OVERSEER — if not always glamorous. "There's really nothing like sleeping in a van in a different Walmart parking lot every night and showering once a week — or less," laughs Riggs.
Candlelight Records has set a June 19 North American release date for "Ghostmaker", the third album from the Philadelphia quartet RUMPELSTILTSKIN GRINDER. Produced by the band, the CD reunites the band with noted gore artist Mike Hrubovcak (SINISTER, HATE ETERNAL, CATTLE DECAPITATION).
Commented RUMPELSTILTSKIN GRINDER vocalist/bassist Shawn Riley: "'Ghostmaker' represents everything we have worked towards for the past several years. When the album drops, it will be obvious that this is something created by four dudes thirsty for blood, eager to silence all the critics, and to crush all the lames." Guitarist Ryan Moll notes, "This album is our fastest, darkest, and most relentless album yet. It will contain some of the most bone-crushing, graveyard stomping, Frankenstein/Dracula/Wolfman hate-fuck riffage written thus far." Guitarist Matt Moore adds, "Each song has its own distinct and strange aura of speed, darkness, brute strength, violence, cunning, and power. We have raised the bar and taken on musical and lyrical concepts that would drive commoners insane."
Since completing recording, RUMPELSTILTSKIN GRINDER has been performing regionally, most recently at Philadelphia venue Johnny Brenda's.
Formed in 2002, RUMPELSTILTSKIN GRINDER had several underground releases, including a split seven-inch single and a live album, before signing with Relapse. Their studio debut, "Buried In the Front Yard", came out in October 2005.
RUMPELSTILTSKIN GRINDER kept busy with additional split recordings, "Speed N Spikes Vol. II" (2008) and "Urine Trouble / Nothing Defeats the Skull" (2008) before getting back in to the studio for their second full-length, "Living For Death; Destroying The Rest" also released by Relapse in January 2009. The band supported ABSU for a 22-date U.S./Canadian tour April 2009, took part in a tour with DECEASED in 2010, and has been performing regionally since.
RUMPELSTILTSKIN GRINDER currently features bassist/vocalist Shawn Riley, guitarist Matt Moore, guitarist Ryan Moll, and drummer Patrick Battaglia.
"Ghostmaker" track listing:
01. Those Who Are Unseen
02. Ghostmaker
03. Nightworms
04. Fucking Wild
05. Dripping With Venom
06. Cold Haunting Death
07. A Lurking Thief
08. You've Been Had
09. Iron Jaw
10. Get Out Of My Grave/Gigantic Graveyard
11. Run Through The Bastards
12. Desert Goblins
Commented RUMPELSTILTSKIN GRINDER vocalist/bassist Shawn Riley: "'Ghostmaker' represents everything we have worked towards for the past several years. When the album drops, it will be obvious that this is something created by four dudes thirsty for blood, eager to silence all the critics, and to crush all the lames." Guitarist Ryan Moll notes, "This album is our fastest, darkest, and most relentless album yet. It will contain some of the most bone-crushing, graveyard stomping, Frankenstein/Dracula/Wolfman hate-fuck riffage written thus far." Guitarist Matt Moore adds, "Each song has its own distinct and strange aura of speed, darkness, brute strength, violence, cunning, and power. We have raised the bar and taken on musical and lyrical concepts that would drive commoners insane."
Since completing recording, RUMPELSTILTSKIN GRINDER has been performing regionally, most recently at Philadelphia venue Johnny Brenda's.
Formed in 2002, RUMPELSTILTSKIN GRINDER had several underground releases, including a split seven-inch single and a live album, before signing with Relapse. Their studio debut, "Buried In the Front Yard", came out in October 2005.
RUMPELSTILTSKIN GRINDER kept busy with additional split recordings, "Speed N Spikes Vol. II" (2008) and "Urine Trouble / Nothing Defeats the Skull" (2008) before getting back in to the studio for their second full-length, "Living For Death; Destroying The Rest" also released by Relapse in January 2009. The band supported ABSU for a 22-date U.S./Canadian tour April 2009, took part in a tour with DECEASED in 2010, and has been performing regionally since.
RUMPELSTILTSKIN GRINDER currently features bassist/vocalist Shawn Riley, guitarist Matt Moore, guitarist Ryan Moll, and drummer Patrick Battaglia.
"Ghostmaker" track listing:
01. Those Who Are Unseen
02. Ghostmaker
03. Nightworms
04. Fucking Wild
05. Dripping With Venom
06. Cold Haunting Death
07. A Lurking Thief
08. You've Been Had
09. Iron Jaw
10. Get Out Of My Grave/Gigantic Graveyard
11. Run Through The Bastards
12. Desert Goblins
Chris Ninni, one of the singers featured on the global metal project EMPIRES OF EDEN, makes his major TV debut as contestant on the Australian version of the hit singing competition "The Voice". The show prides itself on revealing the true talent of the unsigned world.
Chris has appeared on all EMPIRES OF EDEN's releases, including the debut, "Songs Of War And Vengeance", and 2010's "Reborn In Fire". Masterminded by former DUNGEON guitarist and ESP clinician Stu Marshall, EMPIRES OF EDEN is characterized by a massive power metal sound, 30-piece orchestral score, and guest performances from some of the most celebrated musicians in the industry.
Commented Marshall: "Chris is a genuine talent and it's great to see him breaking through on the mainstream. He's been a part of the last few albums and we have written some material together. While I am not into turning artistic endeavor into a competition, it's definitely a great place for Chris to showcase his enormous talent. We are all behind him and know he has worked hard to earn the slot."
EMPIRES OF EDEN will release its third album, "Channelling The Infinite", on June 1 in Japan through Rubicon, and on June 6 in rest of the world June 6 through Music Buy Mail. The CD features guest appearances by some of the most influential voices in metal, including:
* Udo Dirkschneider (ACCEPT, U.D.O.)
* Rob Rock (IMPELLITTERI, DRIVER)
* Steve Grimmett (GRIM REAPER, LIONSHEART)
* Mike Dimeo (MASTERPLAN, RIOT)
* Sean Peck (CAGE)
* Carlos Zema (OUTWORLD, VOUGAN)
* Ronny Munroe (TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA, METAL CHURCH)
* Alessandro Del Vecchio (HARDLINE, EDEN'S CURSE, EDGE OF FOREVER)
* Danny Cecati (EYEFEAR, PEGAZUS)
* Louie Gorgievski (CRIMSONFIRE)
* Vo Simpson (DARKER HALF)
Loaded with 12 tracks of brain-blasting power metal, "Channelling The Infinite" features killer production and powerful, hook-laden music that will appeal to any aficionado. Each song is carefully crafted specifically to suit the singer involved, and designed to best complement their range and style. From there, the vocalists have complete freedom to write the lyrics and melodies, providing a unique insight into what truly inspires these artists. It is also available as a limited-edition digipak that includes bonus tracks for each territory.
In addition to the spectacular vocals, face-melting lead breaks and riffs that could take on a nuclear arsenal. EMPIRES OF EDEN once again showcases the incredible cover art by Los Angeles-based artist Alex Ruiz.
Commented Marshall: "I am overwhelmed by the power and emotion of the vocal performances that these amazing singers have brought to the album. It's pushed my playing to levels I never thought possible and has created the most well-rounded release I have ever been involved with. Writing for these incredible artists is a dream come true and the finished product has actually exceeded my expectations. Every song is filled with a passion and spirit that immediately grabs the listener; I am very excited for people to hear this album."
"Channelling The Infinite" track listing:
01. Cry Out (feat. Rob Rock)
02. Hammer Down (feat. Udo Dirkschneider)
03. This Time (feat. Steve Grimmett)
04. Channelling the Infinite (feat. Sean Peck)
05. Lions For Lambs (feat. Alessandro Del Vecchio)
06. Cyborg (feat. Carlos Zema)
07. World On Fire (feat. Louie Gorgievksi)
08. Your Eyes (feat. Mike Dimeo)
09. Born A King (feat. Danny Cecati)
10. As Flames Scorch The Ground (feat. Vo Simpson)
11. White Wings (feat. Ronny Munroe)
12. Hammer Down (all-star version) (feat. Udo Dirkschneider, Rob Rock, Sean Peck, Carlos Zema, Vo Simpson, Ronny Munroe) (bonus track)
13. Born a King (feat. Sean Peck) (bonus track)
A digital single, "This Time", featuring Steve Grimmett, is scheduled for release on May 26.
Chris has appeared on all EMPIRES OF EDEN's releases, including the debut, "Songs Of War And Vengeance", and 2010's "Reborn In Fire". Masterminded by former DUNGEON guitarist and ESP clinician Stu Marshall, EMPIRES OF EDEN is characterized by a massive power metal sound, 30-piece orchestral score, and guest performances from some of the most celebrated musicians in the industry.
Commented Marshall: "Chris is a genuine talent and it's great to see him breaking through on the mainstream. He's been a part of the last few albums and we have written some material together. While I am not into turning artistic endeavor into a competition, it's definitely a great place for Chris to showcase his enormous talent. We are all behind him and know he has worked hard to earn the slot."
EMPIRES OF EDEN will release its third album, "Channelling The Infinite", on June 1 in Japan through Rubicon, and on June 6 in rest of the world June 6 through Music Buy Mail. The CD features guest appearances by some of the most influential voices in metal, including:
* Udo Dirkschneider (ACCEPT, U.D.O.)
* Rob Rock (IMPELLITTERI, DRIVER)
* Steve Grimmett (GRIM REAPER, LIONSHEART)
* Mike Dimeo (MASTERPLAN, RIOT)
* Sean Peck (CAGE)
* Carlos Zema (OUTWORLD, VOUGAN)
* Ronny Munroe (TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA, METAL CHURCH)
* Alessandro Del Vecchio (HARDLINE, EDEN'S CURSE, EDGE OF FOREVER)
* Danny Cecati (EYEFEAR, PEGAZUS)
* Louie Gorgievski (CRIMSONFIRE)
* Vo Simpson (DARKER HALF)
Loaded with 12 tracks of brain-blasting power metal, "Channelling The Infinite" features killer production and powerful, hook-laden music that will appeal to any aficionado. Each song is carefully crafted specifically to suit the singer involved, and designed to best complement their range and style. From there, the vocalists have complete freedom to write the lyrics and melodies, providing a unique insight into what truly inspires these artists. It is also available as a limited-edition digipak that includes bonus tracks for each territory.
In addition to the spectacular vocals, face-melting lead breaks and riffs that could take on a nuclear arsenal. EMPIRES OF EDEN once again showcases the incredible cover art by Los Angeles-based artist Alex Ruiz.
Commented Marshall: "I am overwhelmed by the power and emotion of the vocal performances that these amazing singers have brought to the album. It's pushed my playing to levels I never thought possible and has created the most well-rounded release I have ever been involved with. Writing for these incredible artists is a dream come true and the finished product has actually exceeded my expectations. Every song is filled with a passion and spirit that immediately grabs the listener; I am very excited for people to hear this album."
"Channelling The Infinite" track listing:
01. Cry Out (feat. Rob Rock)
02. Hammer Down (feat. Udo Dirkschneider)
03. This Time (feat. Steve Grimmett)
04. Channelling the Infinite (feat. Sean Peck)
05. Lions For Lambs (feat. Alessandro Del Vecchio)
06. Cyborg (feat. Carlos Zema)
07. World On Fire (feat. Louie Gorgievksi)
08. Your Eyes (feat. Mike Dimeo)
09. Born A King (feat. Danny Cecati)
10. As Flames Scorch The Ground (feat. Vo Simpson)
11. White Wings (feat. Ronny Munroe)
12. Hammer Down (all-star version) (feat. Udo Dirkschneider, Rob Rock, Sean Peck, Carlos Zema, Vo Simpson, Ronny Munroe) (bonus track)
13. Born a King (feat. Sean Peck) (bonus track)
A digital single, "This Time", featuring Steve Grimmett, is scheduled for release on May 26.
Finnish metallers COREDUST will release their full-length debut, "Decent "Death", on May 9 via Inverse Records. The album was recorded last fall at Scandal Recording Studios, with Kari Huikuri handling all the recording, engineering and mixing duties. The drums on the CD, which was mastered at Chartmakers by Henkka Niemistö, were laid down by CHILDREN OF BODOM's Jaska Raatikainen.
COREDUST in February announced the addition of drummer Petri Heinonen to the group's ranks.
Video footage of Raatikainen recording the drums for "Decent Death" can be seen below.
"Decent Death" is the follow-up to COREDUST's "Past Lives" EP, which was released in the beginning of 2008.
"Decent Death" track listing:
01. Intro
02. Without Disguise
03. Dead End
04. Decent Death
05. 03:00 AM
06. Pain Unfiltered
07. Brainwash
08. It's No Good
COREDUST in February announced the addition of drummer Petri Heinonen to the group's ranks.
Video footage of Raatikainen recording the drums for "Decent Death" can be seen below.
"Decent Death" is the follow-up to COREDUST's "Past Lives" EP, which was released in the beginning of 2008.
"Decent Death" track listing:
01. Intro
02. Without Disguise
03. Dead End
04. Decent Death
05. 03:00 AM
06. Pain Unfiltered
07. Brainwash
08. It's No Good
Bert Weedon, a British guitarist whose "Play in a Day" guitar guide taught the instrument to a generation of young hopefuls, died on Friday at his home in Beaconsfield, in the English county of Buckinghamshire. He was 91.
BLACK SABBATH bassist Geezer Butler has posted the following message on Weedon's passing: "I had stopped commenting on deaths and disasters, because my [online] 'journal' was starting to resemble an obituary column. However, I cannot ignore the passing of Bert Weedon. Some of you won't have heard of him, but I can safely say that many U.K. and Ireland guitarists from John Lennon onwards throughout the 1960s and '70s would probably have never learned to play without Bert Weedon's 'Play In A Day' book. He produced a book with pictures of chords, rather than musical notation, making it possible for those of us who couldn't afford music lessons, or didn't read music, to gradually learn basic chords on the guitar. I know BLACK SABBATH wouldn't exist without his book, since both Tony Iommi and myself learned to play guitar chords from it. RIP Bert!"
BLACK SABBATH bassist Geezer Butler has posted the following message on Weedon's passing: "I had stopped commenting on deaths and disasters, because my [online] 'journal' was starting to resemble an obituary column. However, I cannot ignore the passing of Bert Weedon. Some of you won't have heard of him, but I can safely say that many U.K. and Ireland guitarists from John Lennon onwards throughout the 1960s and '70s would probably have never learned to play without Bert Weedon's 'Play In A Day' book. He produced a book with pictures of chords, rather than musical notation, making it possible for those of us who couldn't afford music lessons, or didn't read music, to gradually learn basic chords on the guitar. I know BLACK SABBATH wouldn't exist without his book, since both Tony Iommi and myself learned to play guitar chords from it. RIP Bert!"
German alcoholic thrashers TANKARD have set "A Girl Called Cerveza" as the title of their 30th-anniversary album, due at the end of July via the band's new label home, Nuclear Blast Records. The CD is currently being recorded at Studio 23 in Frankfurt with producer Michael Mainx (ONKELZ, DER W, DISBELIEF, D-A-D).
The third part of the "A Girl Called Cerveza" album cover can be seen below (hidden behind beer cans).
TANKARD's fourteenth studio album, "Vol(l)ume 14", was released on December 17, 2010 via AFM Records. The limited-edition digipak version of the album includes a bonus DVD containing footage of TANKARD's performance at the 2009 edition of the Headbangers Open Air festival, which took place July 23-25, 2009 in in Brande-Hörnerkirchen, Germany.
The third part of the "A Girl Called Cerveza" album cover can be seen below (hidden behind beer cans).
TANKARD's fourteenth studio album, "Vol(l)ume 14", was released on December 17, 2010 via AFM Records. The limited-edition digipak version of the album includes a bonus DVD containing footage of TANKARD's performance at the 2009 edition of the Headbangers Open Air festival, which took place July 23-25, 2009 in in Brande-Hörnerkirchen, Germany.
Reunited Canadian metallers WITCHKILLER are currently recording material for a new album, to be released in the fall. The band's lineup for the CD will be the one that that toured Canada in 1986-1987: Domenic Scia Scia on vocals; John Meharey on bass; Steven John Batky on guitar, vocals and percussion; and John D on guitar.
Guitarist Kurt Phillips (WARHAG) last year announced his departure WITCHKILLER, stating that he "no longer [felt] that what WITCHKILLER [was] moving towards represented] what [he was] interested[ed] in being a part of."
Heavily influenced by JUDAS PRIEST and IRON MAIDEN, WITCHKILLER split up after recording a single 1984 EP entitled "Day Of The Saxons". The effort, which was released via Metal Blade Records (Steamhammer in Europe), has since become a cult classic.
In 1988, Steamhammer released "Day Of The Saxons" as a split CD with OBSESSION's "Marshall Law" EP.
Guitarist Kurt Phillips (WARHAG) last year announced his departure WITCHKILLER, stating that he "no longer [felt] that what WITCHKILLER [was] moving towards represented] what [he was] interested[ed] in being a part of."
Heavily influenced by JUDAS PRIEST and IRON MAIDEN, WITCHKILLER split up after recording a single 1984 EP entitled "Day Of The Saxons". The effort, which was released via Metal Blade Records (Steamhammer in Europe), has since become a cult classic.
In 1988, Steamhammer released "Day Of The Saxons" as a split CD with OBSESSION's "Marshall Law" EP.
Los Angeles-based traditional metallers WHITE WIZZARD will be in the studio May 1 and May 2 to record a new song called "Torpedo Of Truth". According to the band, "It will feature beastly rhythm, thunderous melodic bass and some serious shred at a whole new level... Anybody that was whining about the lack of more shreddy leads on the 'Flying Tigers' album better get ready to get an injection of some serious shit. A 'Torpedo Of Truth' right up your ass!"
WHITE WIZZARD recently confirmed a special show in Tokyo, Japan in support of their latest album, "Flying Tigers".
WHITE WIZZARD will perform at Shibuya Club Quattro on May 12, and as a special treat for fans, the band will be joined by vocalist Wyatt Anderson, who sang on "Flying Tigers" as well as the band's first full-length album, "Over The Top"
Commented WHITE WIZZARD mainman and bassist Jon Leon: "To our fans: We have a big show coming up in Tokyo, Japan on May 12, 2012. This is to support the Japanese release of 'Flying Tigers'. Wyatt 'Screaming Demon' Anderson has agreed to do this show for our Japanese fans and we will be performing the entire 'Starman's Son' six-song epic from 'Flying Tigers', as well as many more songs from all releases. We hope to film some great footage and we are excited for the experience!"
WHITE WIZZARD released its new album, "Flying Tigers", on September 19 via Earache Records. The CD features twelve new tracks and expands on the band's traditional heavy metal blueprint, with songs ranging from fist-pumping NWOBHM-style anthems, through the arena rock power of "Starchild", to a six-track epic concept piece featuring science-fiction and philosophical elements tied together with a progressive vibe.
"Flying Tigers" features the core WHITE WIZZARD lineup of bassist, songwriter and founding member Jon Leon, drummer Giovanni Durst and studio vocalist Wyatt Anderson, who featured on the band's debut album, "Over The Top". The album was once again recorded with producer Ralph Patlan in Phoenix, Arizona.
WHITE WIZZARD recently recruited Jake Dreyer as the band's new second guitarist.
WHITE WIZZARD recently confirmed a special show in Tokyo, Japan in support of their latest album, "Flying Tigers".
WHITE WIZZARD will perform at Shibuya Club Quattro on May 12, and as a special treat for fans, the band will be joined by vocalist Wyatt Anderson, who sang on "Flying Tigers" as well as the band's first full-length album, "Over The Top"
Commented WHITE WIZZARD mainman and bassist Jon Leon: "To our fans: We have a big show coming up in Tokyo, Japan on May 12, 2012. This is to support the Japanese release of 'Flying Tigers'. Wyatt 'Screaming Demon' Anderson has agreed to do this show for our Japanese fans and we will be performing the entire 'Starman's Son' six-song epic from 'Flying Tigers', as well as many more songs from all releases. We hope to film some great footage and we are excited for the experience!"
WHITE WIZZARD released its new album, "Flying Tigers", on September 19 via Earache Records. The CD features twelve new tracks and expands on the band's traditional heavy metal blueprint, with songs ranging from fist-pumping NWOBHM-style anthems, through the arena rock power of "Starchild", to a six-track epic concept piece featuring science-fiction and philosophical elements tied together with a progressive vibe.
"Flying Tigers" features the core WHITE WIZZARD lineup of bassist, songwriter and founding member Jon Leon, drummer Giovanni Durst and studio vocalist Wyatt Anderson, who featured on the band's debut album, "Over The Top". The album was once again recorded with producer Ralph Patlan in Phoenix, Arizona.
WHITE WIZZARD recently recruited Jake Dreyer as the band's new second guitarist.
Knoxville, Tennessee-based female-fronted metal/hardcore act STRAIGHT LINE STITCH will embark on a U.S. tour on Tuesday, April 24 in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
The band will be joined on the road by former STRAIGHT LINE STITCH and DARKEST HOUR guitarist Kris Norris, back with the group for two months of shredding alongside Kris Hawkins. Up until the tour begins, STRAIGHT LINE STITCH will continue writing material for its third album, which they hope to be in the studio for by the end of the year.
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH recently re-emerged as free agents looking for a new label home. "I think, as a band, we are looking forward mostly to just getting back to basics, and at the very heart of that is hitting the road and letting everyone know that STRAIGHT LINE STITCH is still going strong," states frontwoman Alexis Brown. "There are some new faces in the mix but the feeling and the essence of the band is still the same, which is to go out and give it all we've got."
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH tour dates:
Apr. 24 - Bowling Green, KY @ Berlenz Bar & Grille
Apr. 26 - Virginia Beach, VA @ Geared Up Rock Bar
Apr. 27 - Raleigh, NC @ Berkley Café
Apr. 28 - Enoree, SC @ Carolina MetalFest
May 02 - West Greenwich, RI @ Rock Junction
May 03 - Bristol, CT @ Bleachers
May 05 - Brookfield, CT @ The Room
May 06 - Trenton, NJ @ Championship Bar
May 08 - Reading, PA @ Reverb
May 09 - Albany, NY @ Bogies
May 11 - Rochester, NY @ Montage Musichall
May 12 - Dayton, OH @ McGuffy's
May 13 - Kent, OH @ Outpost
May 15 - S. Barrington, IL @ Penny Road
May 16 - Crest Hill, IL @ Bada Brew
May 17 - Rockford, IL @ Bar 3
May 18 - Cincinnati, OH @ Inner Circle
May 19 - Danville, IL @ Sarges (w/ Dirge Within)
May 20 - South Bend, IN @ Cheers Pub
May 21 - Ft Wayne, IN @ Wrigley Field
May 22 - Indianapolis, IN @ Visions
May 24 - Clarksville, TN @ The Warehouse
May 25 - Little Rock, AK @ Juanita's (w/ Psycho Stick)
May 26 - Shreveport, LA @ The Warehouse
May 27 - New Orleans, LA @ Southport, Hall
May 28 - Covington, LA @ Green Room
May 29 - Pascagoula, MS @ Celtic
May 31 - Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade
Jun. 01 - Birmingham, AL @ Club Crush
Jun. 02 - Montgomery, AL @ Liquids
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH is:
Alexis Brown - Vocals
Jason White - Bass
Ian Shuirr - Drums
Kris Hawkins - Guitar
Kris Norris – Guitar
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH's sophomore album, "The Fight Of Our Lives", sold around 2,700 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 5 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.
The follow-up to 2008's "When Skies Wash Ashore", "The Fight Of Our Lives" was produced and mixed by the Grammy Award-nominated producer Johnny K (DISTURBED, MACHINE HEAD, SEVENDUST) and includes eleven new songs. Additional work on the album was done by Ben Schigel.
The band will be joined on the road by former STRAIGHT LINE STITCH and DARKEST HOUR guitarist Kris Norris, back with the group for two months of shredding alongside Kris Hawkins. Up until the tour begins, STRAIGHT LINE STITCH will continue writing material for its third album, which they hope to be in the studio for by the end of the year.
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH recently re-emerged as free agents looking for a new label home. "I think, as a band, we are looking forward mostly to just getting back to basics, and at the very heart of that is hitting the road and letting everyone know that STRAIGHT LINE STITCH is still going strong," states frontwoman Alexis Brown. "There are some new faces in the mix but the feeling and the essence of the band is still the same, which is to go out and give it all we've got."
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH tour dates:
Apr. 24 - Bowling Green, KY @ Berlenz Bar & Grille
Apr. 26 - Virginia Beach, VA @ Geared Up Rock Bar
Apr. 27 - Raleigh, NC @ Berkley Café
Apr. 28 - Enoree, SC @ Carolina MetalFest
May 02 - West Greenwich, RI @ Rock Junction
May 03 - Bristol, CT @ Bleachers
May 05 - Brookfield, CT @ The Room
May 06 - Trenton, NJ @ Championship Bar
May 08 - Reading, PA @ Reverb
May 09 - Albany, NY @ Bogies
May 11 - Rochester, NY @ Montage Musichall
May 12 - Dayton, OH @ McGuffy's
May 13 - Kent, OH @ Outpost
May 15 - S. Barrington, IL @ Penny Road
May 16 - Crest Hill, IL @ Bada Brew
May 17 - Rockford, IL @ Bar 3
May 18 - Cincinnati, OH @ Inner Circle
May 19 - Danville, IL @ Sarges (w/ Dirge Within)
May 20 - South Bend, IN @ Cheers Pub
May 21 - Ft Wayne, IN @ Wrigley Field
May 22 - Indianapolis, IN @ Visions
May 24 - Clarksville, TN @ The Warehouse
May 25 - Little Rock, AK @ Juanita's (w/ Psycho Stick)
May 26 - Shreveport, LA @ The Warehouse
May 27 - New Orleans, LA @ Southport, Hall
May 28 - Covington, LA @ Green Room
May 29 - Pascagoula, MS @ Celtic
May 31 - Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade
Jun. 01 - Birmingham, AL @ Club Crush
Jun. 02 - Montgomery, AL @ Liquids
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH is:
Alexis Brown - Vocals
Jason White - Bass
Ian Shuirr - Drums
Kris Hawkins - Guitar
Kris Norris – Guitar
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH's sophomore album, "The Fight Of Our Lives", sold around 2,700 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 5 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.
The follow-up to 2008's "When Skies Wash Ashore", "The Fight Of Our Lives" was produced and mixed by the Grammy Award-nominated producer Johnny K (DISTURBED, MACHINE HEAD, SEVENDUST) and includes eleven new songs. Additional work on the album was done by Ben Schigel.
CANNIBAL CORPSE, BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME and THE FACELESS are among the confirmed bands for the sixth annual Summer Slaughter Tour, which will run from July 20 through August 25. There will also be special guests in each city such as THE CONTORTIONIST, RINGS OF SATURN, FALLUJAH and more.
Commented Summer Slaugher founder Ash Avildsen: "Without a doubt, this is the biggest year in the history of the tour. We are honored to have such an incredible, diverse group of musicians all on the same bill. It's brutal, classic, progressive, fresh and still the most extreme tour of the year. Drink lots of water before you show up and get ready to rage!"
General-admission tickets go on sale Friday, April 27. VIP tickets will be available starting tonight from SoundCheck Hollywood in Hollywood, California.
Summer Slaughter Tour lineup:
CANNIBAL CORPSE
BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME
THE FACELESS
PERIPHERY
VEIL OF MAYA
JOB FOR A COWBOY
GOATWHORE
EXHUMED
CEREBRAL BORE
The dates are as follows:
Jul. 20 - Los Angeles, CA - House of Blues
Jul. 21 - San Diego, CA - SOMA
Jul. 22 - Las Vegas, NV - House of Blues
Jul. 23 - Scottsdale, AZ - Venue of Scottsdale
Jul. 25 - Dallas, TX - House of Blues
Jul. 26 - San Antonio, TX - White Rabbit
Jul. 27 - Mission, TX - Pharr Events Center
Jul. 28 - Houston, TX - House of Blues
Jul. 30 - Tampa, FL - The Ritz
Jul. 31 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Revolution
Aug. 01 - Atlanta, GA - The Masquerade
Aug. 02 - Knoxville, TN - The Valarium
Aug. 03 - Charlotte, NC - Amos Southend
Aug. 04 - Baltimore, MD - Sonar
Aug. 05 - Philadelphia, PA - The Trocadero
Aug. 07 - Sayreville, NJ - Starland Ballroom
Aug. 08 - New York, NY - Irving Plaza
Aug. 09 - Albany, NY - Northern Lights
Aug. 10 - Worcester, MA - The Palladium
Aug. 11 - Montreal, QC - Heavy Montreal
Aug. 12 - Toronto, ON - Heavy Toronto
Aug. 14 - Cleveland, OH - House of Blues
Aug. 15 - Detroit, MI - St. Andrew's
Aug. 16 - Chicago, IL - House Blues
Aug. 17 - Milwaukee, WI - The Rave
Aug. 18 - St. Paul, MN - Station 4
Aug. 20 - Denver, CO - Summit Music Hall
Aug. 22 - Seattle, WA - The Showbox Sodo
Aug. 23 - Portland, OR - Roseland Theater
Aug. 24 - San Francisco, CA - The Fillmore
Aug. 25 - Anaheim, CA - The Grove
Commented Summer Slaugher founder Ash Avildsen: "Without a doubt, this is the biggest year in the history of the tour. We are honored to have such an incredible, diverse group of musicians all on the same bill. It's brutal, classic, progressive, fresh and still the most extreme tour of the year. Drink lots of water before you show up and get ready to rage!"
General-admission tickets go on sale Friday, April 27. VIP tickets will be available starting tonight from SoundCheck Hollywood in Hollywood, California.
Summer Slaughter Tour lineup:
CANNIBAL CORPSE
BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME
THE FACELESS
PERIPHERY
VEIL OF MAYA
JOB FOR A COWBOY
GOATWHORE
EXHUMED
CEREBRAL BORE
The dates are as follows:
Jul. 20 - Los Angeles, CA - House of Blues
Jul. 21 - San Diego, CA - SOMA
Jul. 22 - Las Vegas, NV - House of Blues
Jul. 23 - Scottsdale, AZ - Venue of Scottsdale
Jul. 25 - Dallas, TX - House of Blues
Jul. 26 - San Antonio, TX - White Rabbit
Jul. 27 - Mission, TX - Pharr Events Center
Jul. 28 - Houston, TX - House of Blues
Jul. 30 - Tampa, FL - The Ritz
Jul. 31 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Revolution
Aug. 01 - Atlanta, GA - The Masquerade
Aug. 02 - Knoxville, TN - The Valarium
Aug. 03 - Charlotte, NC - Amos Southend
Aug. 04 - Baltimore, MD - Sonar
Aug. 05 - Philadelphia, PA - The Trocadero
Aug. 07 - Sayreville, NJ - Starland Ballroom
Aug. 08 - New York, NY - Irving Plaza
Aug. 09 - Albany, NY - Northern Lights
Aug. 10 - Worcester, MA - The Palladium
Aug. 11 - Montreal, QC - Heavy Montreal
Aug. 12 - Toronto, ON - Heavy Toronto
Aug. 14 - Cleveland, OH - House of Blues
Aug. 15 - Detroit, MI - St. Andrew's
Aug. 16 - Chicago, IL - House Blues
Aug. 17 - Milwaukee, WI - The Rave
Aug. 18 - St. Paul, MN - Station 4
Aug. 20 - Denver, CO - Summit Music Hall
Aug. 22 - Seattle, WA - The Showbox Sodo
Aug. 23 - Portland, OR - Roseland Theater
Aug. 24 - San Francisco, CA - The Fillmore
Aug. 25 - Anaheim, CA - The Grove
Michigan's unstoppable sons of molten melodic death metal THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER have announced the addition of bassist Max Lavelle (BURN IN SILENCE, GORATORY, DESPISED ICON) to the group's ranks.
THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER's latest album, "Ritual", sold 13,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 31 on The Billboard 200 chart. The band's previous CD, "Deflorate", opened with around 12,000 units to enter the chart at No. 43.
Released on June 21, 2011 via Metal Blade Records, "Ritual" is a collection of 12 tracks that see the band staying true to their sound and style while progressing in both writing and musicianship. Guitarist Ryan Knight has delivered truly searing leads that will without a doubt daze and lay waste the ears of both loyal BLACK DAHLIA diehards and burgeoning fans alike. Music for "Ritual" was recorded in early 2011 in Detroit, Michigan, with Mark Lewis (DEICIDE, UNEARTH) and the band producing. The vocal-recording sessions and mixing took place at Audiohammer in Sanford, Florida with Jason Suecof (BENEATH THE MASSACRE, JOB FOR A COWBOY, ALL THAT REMAINS) at the helm.
THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER's latest album, "Ritual", sold 13,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 31 on The Billboard 200 chart. The band's previous CD, "Deflorate", opened with around 12,000 units to enter the chart at No. 43.
Released on June 21, 2011 via Metal Blade Records, "Ritual" is a collection of 12 tracks that see the band staying true to their sound and style while progressing in both writing and musicianship. Guitarist Ryan Knight has delivered truly searing leads that will without a doubt daze and lay waste the ears of both loyal BLACK DAHLIA diehards and burgeoning fans alike. Music for "Ritual" was recorded in early 2011 in Detroit, Michigan, with Mark Lewis (DEICIDE, UNEARTH) and the band producing. The vocal-recording sessions and mixing took place at Audiohammer in Sanford, Florida with Jason Suecof (BENEATH THE MASSACRE, JOB FOR A COWBOY, ALL THAT REMAINS) at the helm.
Costa Rica-based melodic metal band SIGHT OF EMPTINESS has finished recording its as-yet-untitled third album, to be released later this year. The CD was recorded at SoloHits Studios in San José, Costa Rica with Swedish producer Thomas "Plec" Johansson (SCAR SYMMETRY, WATAIN, ESKIMO CALLBOY, SOLUTION .45, MISERATION), who traveled all the way to Costa Rica to work with the band closely for about 22 days. The mixing and mastering duties are being handled by Thomas Johansson at Panic Room Studios in Skara, Sweden.
SIGHT OF EMPTINESS' new CD will feature guest appearances by the following musicians: Glen Drover (KING DIAMOND, MEGADETH), Christian Älvestam (SCAR SYMMETRY, MISERATION, SOLUTION .45), Whitfield Crane (UGLY KID JOE, ANOTHER ANIMAL), Ralph Santolla (DEICIDE, ICED EARTH, OBITUARY), Ole Halvard Sveen (EXTOL, MANTRIC, LENGSEL) and last but not least, one that comes as a shocking but pleasant surprise, no other than the Minister of Culture of Costa Rica; Manuel Obregón who plays the Marimba and the acoustic piano.
Commented Johansson: "Coming to Costa Rica to work with SIGHT OF EMPTINESS has been a great experience. Such dedication and love for music as these guys show is a rare commodity to come across these days and that's probably why we got along so well and managed to dish out some kick-ass tracks. The new album will be something to look forward to, creating a blend of dark, heavy, energetic and melodic atmospheres that are ready to take the stage."
Added SIGHT OF EMPTINESS singer Eduardo Chacón: "What a journey 'familia,' the last 15 months have been a roller coaster for us, filled with so many good moments, experiences and the pre-production of our new baby. A few days ago, we finished recording our third and best album to date. Let me tell you something, this time around we had the opportunity and pleasure to work for the first time with a producer and WOW, it really makes a huge difference. Plec is a monster, he really knows how to get the best out of you, the best and perfect team for this project, no doubt about it. He also brought new ideas and arrangements in order to take the songs to a new level, I still can't believe how good every song sounds even if they're not mixed and mastered yet."
Stated SIGHT OF EMPTINESS guitarist Rafael Castro: "It is quite a bold attempt to be known outside our country, and after listening to the kind of work Plec is used to do, we're pretty sure we won't let anybody down. While composing the album, we were so meticulous! Every note had to be on the right spot and performance had to be as precise as possible. Nobody wanted to be a weak link in this process, so we were very focused. Also, having these kinds of guests on board is just amazing. They've been heroes of ours for such a long time, and now they want to be part of this! I can't believe it... It was humbling to receive excellent feedback on our new album and how they love it. It is just unreal! Can't wait to go out there and play it live! We're ready!"
Labels interested in releasing the new album or signing the band can contact SIGHT OF EMPTINESS at sightofemptiness@gmail.com.
SIGHT OF EMPTINESS' new CD will feature guest appearances by the following musicians: Glen Drover (KING DIAMOND, MEGADETH), Christian Älvestam (SCAR SYMMETRY, MISERATION, SOLUTION .45), Whitfield Crane (UGLY KID JOE, ANOTHER ANIMAL), Ralph Santolla (DEICIDE, ICED EARTH, OBITUARY), Ole Halvard Sveen (EXTOL, MANTRIC, LENGSEL) and last but not least, one that comes as a shocking but pleasant surprise, no other than the Minister of Culture of Costa Rica; Manuel Obregón who plays the Marimba and the acoustic piano.
Commented Johansson: "Coming to Costa Rica to work with SIGHT OF EMPTINESS has been a great experience. Such dedication and love for music as these guys show is a rare commodity to come across these days and that's probably why we got along so well and managed to dish out some kick-ass tracks. The new album will be something to look forward to, creating a blend of dark, heavy, energetic and melodic atmospheres that are ready to take the stage."
Added SIGHT OF EMPTINESS singer Eduardo Chacón: "What a journey 'familia,' the last 15 months have been a roller coaster for us, filled with so many good moments, experiences and the pre-production of our new baby. A few days ago, we finished recording our third and best album to date. Let me tell you something, this time around we had the opportunity and pleasure to work for the first time with a producer and WOW, it really makes a huge difference. Plec is a monster, he really knows how to get the best out of you, the best and perfect team for this project, no doubt about it. He also brought new ideas and arrangements in order to take the songs to a new level, I still can't believe how good every song sounds even if they're not mixed and mastered yet."
Stated SIGHT OF EMPTINESS guitarist Rafael Castro: "It is quite a bold attempt to be known outside our country, and after listening to the kind of work Plec is used to do, we're pretty sure we won't let anybody down. While composing the album, we were so meticulous! Every note had to be on the right spot and performance had to be as precise as possible. Nobody wanted to be a weak link in this process, so we were very focused. Also, having these kinds of guests on board is just amazing. They've been heroes of ours for such a long time, and now they want to be part of this! I can't believe it... It was humbling to receive excellent feedback on our new album and how they love it. It is just unreal! Can't wait to go out there and play it live! We're ready!"
Labels interested in releasing the new album or signing the band can contact SIGHT OF EMPTINESS at sightofemptiness@gmail.com.
After over a decade with the band, guitarist Juho Matikainen has decided to part ways with Finnish black metallers GLORIA MORTI.
Commented the band: "Matikainen wants to concentrate fully on his studies and career and is left with not enough time to give his 100% to the band. The departure happens in good spirits and the band wishes to thank Matikainen for the great years on the road.
"The guitarist vacancy will be filled with our good friend and an outstanding guitarist Eero Silvonen (CASKET, FINAL HARVEST, ROUTASIELU, DEATH CONFRONTING). The band is really excited to have him on-board and wishes to welcome Eero to the twisted family known as GLORIA MORTI.
"The aforementioned lineup change will not in any way affect the plans laid out for the recordings of the forthcoming album. The band is currently doing pre-production and the recordings of the album will start on June 9th at D-studio with Juho Räihä behind the desk."
GLORIA MORTI's third labum, "Anthems Of Annihilation", was released in 2010 via Cyclone Empire Records. Recorded and mixed at guitarist Juho Räihä's personal studio and mastered at Chartmakers by Svante Forsbäck (RAMMSTEIN, SOULFLY), the CD "easily exceeds the band's earlier work," according to a press release. "[It] brings the band to new heights by its agressive yet diverse soundscape."
GLORIA MORTI is:
Psycho - Vocals
Juho Räihä - Guitar
Eero Silvonen - Guitar
Aki Salonen - Bass
Kauko Kuusisalo – Drums
Commented the band: "Matikainen wants to concentrate fully on his studies and career and is left with not enough time to give his 100% to the band. The departure happens in good spirits and the band wishes to thank Matikainen for the great years on the road.
"The guitarist vacancy will be filled with our good friend and an outstanding guitarist Eero Silvonen (CASKET, FINAL HARVEST, ROUTASIELU, DEATH CONFRONTING). The band is really excited to have him on-board and wishes to welcome Eero to the twisted family known as GLORIA MORTI.
"The aforementioned lineup change will not in any way affect the plans laid out for the recordings of the forthcoming album. The band is currently doing pre-production and the recordings of the album will start on June 9th at D-studio with Juho Räihä behind the desk."
GLORIA MORTI's third labum, "Anthems Of Annihilation", was released in 2010 via Cyclone Empire Records. Recorded and mixed at guitarist Juho Räihä's personal studio and mastered at Chartmakers by Svante Forsbäck (RAMMSTEIN, SOULFLY), the CD "easily exceeds the band's earlier work," according to a press release. "[It] brings the band to new heights by its agressive yet diverse soundscape."
GLORIA MORTI is:
Psycho - Vocals
Juho Räihä - Guitar
Eero Silvonen - Guitar
Aki Salonen - Bass
Kauko Kuusisalo – Drums
Norwegian extremists KRAANIUM will release their third full-length of gore-drenched and perverse brutal death, "Post Mortal Coital Fixation", on May 22 via Comatose Music. The album was recorded by Hannes Nystèn at Sweden's Vomitation Studios and mastered by Colin Davis of Imperial Mastering.
"Post Mortal Coital Fixation" track listing:
01. Post Mortal Fixation
02. Stillborn Necrotic Fuck Feast
03. Bursting Rectal Sores
04. Compulsive Mutilation Disorder
05. Slurping the Vaginal Pus
06. Crack Whore Pounding
07. Coprophagial Asphyxiation
08. Slammed Kranial Remains
09. Sculptures of Perverse Suffering
10. Baptized in Boiling Sewage
11. Orgy of Cannibalistic Fornication
12. Entrails Full of Vermin (ABOMINABLE PUTRIDITY cover)
A teaser video can be seen below.
In support of "Post Mortal Coital Fixation", KRAANIUM will join Comatose Music labelmates ATROCIOUS ABNORMALITY and COATHANGER ABORTION for the ComaTour 2012 this June.
KRAANIUM is:
Martin Funderud - Voacals
Vidar Ermesjø - Guitar
Mats Funderud - Guitar
Ian Slemming - Bass
Mitch Rider – Drums
"Post Mortal Coital Fixation" track listing:
01. Post Mortal Fixation
02. Stillborn Necrotic Fuck Feast
03. Bursting Rectal Sores
04. Compulsive Mutilation Disorder
05. Slurping the Vaginal Pus
06. Crack Whore Pounding
07. Coprophagial Asphyxiation
08. Slammed Kranial Remains
09. Sculptures of Perverse Suffering
10. Baptized in Boiling Sewage
11. Orgy of Cannibalistic Fornication
12. Entrails Full of Vermin (ABOMINABLE PUTRIDITY cover)
A teaser video can be seen below.
In support of "Post Mortal Coital Fixation", KRAANIUM will join Comatose Music labelmates ATROCIOUS ABNORMALITY and COATHANGER ABORTION for the ComaTour 2012 this June.
KRAANIUM is:
Martin Funderud - Voacals
Vidar Ermesjø - Guitar
Mats Funderud - Guitar
Ian Slemming - Bass
Mitch Rider – Drums
Spanish death metallers AVULSED have announced the addition of drummer Oscar "Osckar" Bravo to the group's ranks.
Commented the band: "After testing three excellent drummers, the decision was taken in favour of Osckar, [who] proved to be not only the best drummer, but also, and very important as well, [that he possessed] great qualities as a person as well as the necessary dedication for the band, which will undoubtly inject fresh and renewed hopes.
"Osckar is one of the best drummers on the Spanish metal scene [who] also plays in the legendary heavy metal band SOBREDOSIS and also on NIGHTFEAR as well as recently departed from melodic death metallers ATMOSPHERE GREY.
"All members in AVULSED feels so happy and proud of having found Osckar to fill the drum spot and he just came to stay as another full-time member, making the band stronger than ever before and can't wait to present him live as well as recording the new album towards the end of the year.
"You can actually see a short video (see below) taken during our first official rehearsal with Osckar where he already played the first five songs he learned for the test. You can see he's perfect for the band!"
AVULSED parted ways with drummer Ricardo "Riky" Mena in March "due to differences on how to deal with different internal issues within the band."
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 band: "After testing three excellent drummers, the decision was taken in favour of Osckar, [who] proved to be not only the best drummer, but also, and very important as well, [that he possessed] great qualities as a person as well as the necessary dedication for the band, which will undoubtly inject fresh and renewed hopes.
"Osckar is one of the best drummers on the Spanish metal scene [who] also plays in the legendary heavy metal band SOBREDOSIS and also on NIGHTFEAR as well as recently departed from melodic death metallers ATMOSPHERE GREY.
"All members in AVULSED feels so happy and proud of having found Osckar to fill the drum spot and he just came to stay as another full-time member, making the band stronger than ever before and can't wait to present him live as well as recording the new album towards the end of the year.
"You can actually see a short video (see below) taken during our first official rehearsal with Osckar where he already played the first five songs he learned for the test. You can see he's perfect for the band!"
AVULSED parted ways with drummer Ricardo "Riky" Mena in March "due to differences on how to deal with different internal issues within the band."
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.
German modern melodic death metal quintet I SPIT ASHES has inked a deal with Massacre Records.
A press release states: "Without neglecting their roots or following any trends, I SPIT ASHES don't want to sound like any other band, even though they sound familiar. And just like life, the band's songs are sometimes hard and angry, or smooth and sad."
"If you attend a I SPIT ASHES concert, you'll feel like you've seen a flying saucer landing right in front of you!" boasts guitarist Emanuel Seis.
I SPIT ASHES is:
Emanuel Seis - Guitar
Bernhard Lindner - Guitar
Benedikt Rathsmann - Vocals
Daniel Lammich - Drums
Benjamin Müller – Bass
A press release states: "Without neglecting their roots or following any trends, I SPIT ASHES don't want to sound like any other band, even though they sound familiar. And just like life, the band's songs are sometimes hard and angry, or smooth and sad."
"If you attend a I SPIT ASHES concert, you'll feel like you've seen a flying saucer landing right in front of you!" boasts guitarist Emanuel Seis.
I SPIT ASHES is:
Emanuel Seis - Guitar
Bernhard Lindner - Guitar
Benedikt Rathsmann - Vocals
Daniel Lammich - Drums
Benjamin Müller – Bass
Danish black metallers HORNED ALMIGHTY have parted ways with Candlelight Records, the label that released the band's critically acclaimed album "Necro Spirituals" in 2010. HORNED ALMIGHTY is currently seeking a suitable label to release the group's as-yet-untitled fifth studio CD.
Commented the band: "The writing of the coming black mass is at full speed and half of the opus is already completed. Once again, the gates of death and darkness opens and pukes forth sheer and utter black metal, fueled by diesel, beer and piss!! A special release later this year is also being planned to commemorate the first ten years of misery and madness. This is the age of scorn!!!"
"Necro Spirituals" was released in North America in January 2011 via Candlelight Records. The album, which was issued in Europe in October 2010, was recorded in May-June 2010 and mixed and mastered by Jacob Bredahl (HATESPHERE, KOLDBORN) at Dead Rat Studios. The CD is "comprised of the strongest and most fierce material written in the band's eight-year existence," according to a press release. "Yet again, crushing all doctrines and rules with their 'don't-give-a-shit' take on black metal, as a testament to all that is extreme."
Commented the band: "The writing of the coming black mass is at full speed and half of the opus is already completed. Once again, the gates of death and darkness opens and pukes forth sheer and utter black metal, fueled by diesel, beer and piss!! A special release later this year is also being planned to commemorate the first ten years of misery and madness. This is the age of scorn!!!"
"Necro Spirituals" was released in North America in January 2011 via Candlelight Records. The album, which was issued in Europe in October 2010, was recorded in May-June 2010 and mixed and mastered by Jacob Bredahl (HATESPHERE, KOLDBORN) at Dead Rat Studios. The CD is "comprised of the strongest and most fierce material written in the band's eight-year existence," according to a press release. "Yet again, crushing all doctrines and rules with their 'don't-give-a-shit' take on black metal, as a testament to all that is extreme."
Dutch death metallers SINISTER have completed work on their new album, "The Carnage Ending", for a summer release via Massacre Records.
The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Defamatory Content
02. Regarding The Imagery
03. The Carnage Ending
04. Transylvania (City Of The Damned)
05. My Casual Enemy
06. Crown Of Thorns
07. Blood Ecstasy
08. Unheavenly Domain
09. The Final Destroyer
10. Oath Of Rebirth
SINISTER also recorded five cover songs for a bonus disc which will be included with the upcoming album.
Poland's Metal Mind Productions released an exclusive box containing SINISTER's full discography in February 2011. Entitled "Altered Since Birth", the set contains eight studio albums, a live DVD, a compilation of demo tracks, plus a booklet containing a full biography based on an exclusive interview, the complete discography, lyrics to all songs and a selection of amazing archive photos. The cover artwork was created by the well-known Polish graphic designer Graal.
"Legacy of Ashes" came out on December 17, 2010 via Massacre Records. The CD was recorded at Soundlodge studios in Rhauderfehn, Germany with producer Jörg Uken (GOD DETHRONED, OBSCENITY).
The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Defamatory Content
02. Regarding The Imagery
03. The Carnage Ending
04. Transylvania (City Of The Damned)
05. My Casual Enemy
06. Crown Of Thorns
07. Blood Ecstasy
08. Unheavenly Domain
09. The Final Destroyer
10. Oath Of Rebirth
SINISTER also recorded five cover songs for a bonus disc which will be included with the upcoming album.
Poland's Metal Mind Productions released an exclusive box containing SINISTER's full discography in February 2011. Entitled "Altered Since Birth", the set contains eight studio albums, a live DVD, a compilation of demo tracks, plus a booklet containing a full biography based on an exclusive interview, the complete discography, lyrics to all songs and a selection of amazing archive photos. The cover artwork was created by the well-known Polish graphic designer Graal.
"Legacy of Ashes" came out on December 17, 2010 via Massacre Records. The CD was recorded at Soundlodge studios in Rhauderfehn, Germany with producer Jörg Uken (GOD DETHRONED, OBSCENITY).
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