According to Q1043.com, the release date of AEROSMITH's long-awaited 15th studio album, "Music From Another Dimension", has been pushed back from August 28 to November (via Columbia Records). The first song to be made available from the CD is a reworked version of the band's 1991 outtake "Legendary Child", which was originally written during the "Get A Grip" sessions. The track, which can be streamed below, will also be included in the upcoming film "GI Joe: Retaliation", the release of which has now been pushed back to March 2013.
AEROSMITH performed "Legendary Child" on May 23 on the season finale of "American Idol".
"Music From Another Dimension" track listing:
01. What Could Have Been Love
02. Beautiful
03. Street Jesus
04. Legendary Child
05. Oh Yeah
06. We All Fall Down
07. Another Last Goodbye
08. Out Go the Lights
09. Love Three Times a Day (Hello Goodbye)
10. Closer
11. Shakey Ground
12. Lover A Lot
13. Freedom Fighter
14. Up On The Mountain
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.
"Music From Another Dimension" is being helmed by producer Jack Douglas, who previously worked with AEROSMITH on classic early albums like "Toys In The Attic" and "Rocks" as well as on 2004's "Honkin' On Bobo".
"This record is different from the recent past, say the last 20 years, where everybody is getting in the studio and throwing down their songs," guitarist Joe Perry recently told Billboard.com. "This record is a lot more band-written stuff than there has been in the recent past."
Perry admitts he's still amazed how the band has managed to keep it together over the past 40 years. Perry explained to the Boston Herald that somehow when it came time to craft the material on "Music From Another Dimension", they were willing to put all of their personal differences aside for the benefit of the music. "I have no idea how it works," he said. "With AEROSMITH, we put one foot in front of the other and hope for the best. . . There are bands that don't talk to each other for five years, and then get back together and go out and play their songs and they turn into the best cover band of their own songs. That's fine and well, but for us it will be always changing. We've been trying to write this record for 10 years, and we finally did."
Steven Tyler, whose decision to take the job as a judge on Fox's "American Idol" caused yet another major rift between his and Perry's relationship, added, "It's the same bottle man. We just corked it. Everything that was cooking inside and fermenting to that just right year just happened to be now. It was the perfect time. . . With great pressure comes great diamonds."
AEROSMITH performed "Legendary Child" on May 23 on the season finale of "American Idol".
"Music From Another Dimension" track listing:
01. What Could Have Been Love
02. Beautiful
03. Street Jesus
04. Legendary Child
05. Oh Yeah
06. We All Fall Down
07. Another Last Goodbye
08. Out Go the Lights
09. Love Three Times a Day (Hello Goodbye)
10. Closer
11. Shakey Ground
12. Lover A Lot
13. Freedom Fighter
14. Up On The Mountain
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.
"Music From Another Dimension" is being helmed by producer Jack Douglas, who previously worked with AEROSMITH on classic early albums like "Toys In The Attic" and "Rocks" as well as on 2004's "Honkin' On Bobo".
"This record is different from the recent past, say the last 20 years, where everybody is getting in the studio and throwing down their songs," guitarist Joe Perry recently told Billboard.com. "This record is a lot more band-written stuff than there has been in the recent past."
Perry admitts he's still amazed how the band has managed to keep it together over the past 40 years. Perry explained to the Boston Herald that somehow when it came time to craft the material on "Music From Another Dimension", they were willing to put all of their personal differences aside for the benefit of the music. "I have no idea how it works," he said. "With AEROSMITH, we put one foot in front of the other and hope for the best. . . There are bands that don't talk to each other for five years, and then get back together and go out and play their songs and they turn into the best cover band of their own songs. That's fine and well, but for us it will be always changing. We've been trying to write this record for 10 years, and we finally did."
Steven Tyler, whose decision to take the job as a judge on Fox's "American Idol" caused yet another major rift between his and Perry's relationship, added, "It's the same bottle man. We just corked it. Everything that was cooking inside and fermenting to that just right year just happened to be now. It was the perfect time. . . With great pressure comes great diamonds."
Rock legends AC/DC are set to expand the availability of their range of wines following their official release last year in Australia. AC/DC The Wine has become a huge hit with fans while also achieving critical acclaim.
Sales figures compiled by Warburn Estate, the exclusive producer of AC/DC The Wine, show that more than 50,000 cases have been sold since the initial introduction last fall in Australia, including retail sales of greater than 6,000 cases within the first week after its release – record sales levels for the launch of a new proprietary wine brand.
The deal was brokered by Live Nation Merchandise, AC/DC's worldwide merchandise representative.
Peter Jackson, whose Winestate Wine Marketing And Promotions company reviewed the wines shortly after the Australian release said, "Traditionally all Winestate judgings are run exactly the same as any typical wine review program. With over 10,000 wines judged every year, more than 60% of wines submitted are not recommended. The new AC/DC wine label is not only very clever marketing, it's actually quite a very good wine!"
AC/DC The Wine is sourced from some of the Southern Hemisphere's most popular and established wine regions, Southeast Australia and Marlborough, New Zealand. The wines are styled for maximum enjoyment while the packaging features graphics from a number of AC/DC albums. For the greater than 20 million AC/DC fans on Facebook and wine lovers around the world, the price-quality value of these wines and the unique story are a sure hit.
AC/DC The Wine will be released in the United States with four varietals for fans and wine lovers alike; Back in Black Shiraz, Highway to Hell Cabernet Sauvignon, Thunderstruck Chardonnay and Hells Bells Sauvignon Blanc. A fifth varietal, You Shook Me All Night Long Moscato, will be available soon!
The wines go on sale today at www.vinport.com and beginning shortly the wines will be available through select national, regional and local outlets including featured Total Wine And More locations. The suggested retail price of the wines is $17.99.
Sales figures compiled by Warburn Estate, the exclusive producer of AC/DC The Wine, show that more than 50,000 cases have been sold since the initial introduction last fall in Australia, including retail sales of greater than 6,000 cases within the first week after its release – record sales levels for the launch of a new proprietary wine brand.
The deal was brokered by Live Nation Merchandise, AC/DC's worldwide merchandise representative.
Peter Jackson, whose Winestate Wine Marketing And Promotions company reviewed the wines shortly after the Australian release said, "Traditionally all Winestate judgings are run exactly the same as any typical wine review program. With over 10,000 wines judged every year, more than 60% of wines submitted are not recommended. The new AC/DC wine label is not only very clever marketing, it's actually quite a very good wine!"
AC/DC The Wine is sourced from some of the Southern Hemisphere's most popular and established wine regions, Southeast Australia and Marlborough, New Zealand. The wines are styled for maximum enjoyment while the packaging features graphics from a number of AC/DC albums. For the greater than 20 million AC/DC fans on Facebook and wine lovers around the world, the price-quality value of these wines and the unique story are a sure hit.
AC/DC The Wine will be released in the United States with four varietals for fans and wine lovers alike; Back in Black Shiraz, Highway to Hell Cabernet Sauvignon, Thunderstruck Chardonnay and Hells Bells Sauvignon Blanc. A fifth varietal, You Shook Me All Night Long Moscato, will be available soon!
The wines go on sale today at www.vinport.com and beginning shortly the wines will be available through select national, regional and local outlets including featured Total Wine And More locations. The suggested retail price of the wines is $17.99.
Legendary guitarist Slash (VELVET REVOLVER, GUNS N' ROSES) has achieved his first-ever No. 1 hit at rock radio as "You're A Lie" vaults to the top spot this week at Active Rock. The explosive song is the first track from Slash's second solo album, "Apocalyptic Love", which was released May 22 and entered The Billboard 200 chart at No. 4, marking the top rock debut that week.
This news comes as Slash featuring MYLES KENNEDY AND THE CONSPIRATORS — Myles Kennedy (vocals), Brent Fitz (drums) and Todd Kerns (bass) — are coming off a successful European trek and getting ready to launch a summer headlining tour July 12 in Portland, Oregon. Meanwhile, on July 10, the iconic Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame inductee will be honored with his own star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame.
"Apocalyptic Love" also entered the Top 5 in seven countries outside the U.S.: Canada (No. 2), Australia (No. 2), New Zealand (No. 1), Germany (No. 5), France (No. 7), Japan (No. 2), Sweden (No. 4) and Switzerland (No. 3). All the songs on "Apocalyptic Love" (Dik Hayd International, distributed through EMI Label Services) were written together by Slash and Myles Kennedy.
Slash and his band are riding a wave of critical acclaim with a four-star review in Revolver magazine noting: "'Apocalyptic Love' is at heart a collection of lean, high-octane rock-and-roll tunes built to be blasted out of open-top sports cars or, more suitably, open-air stadiums." (July 2012) Elsewhere, the Los Angeles Times said: "Fans of his work in GN'R and VELVET REVOLVER will find much to embrace in the album's 13 tracks, ranging from the sneering rock hooks of 'You're a Lie' and the heavy metal grind of 'Halo' to the extended instrumental passages on 'Anastasia'." (May 24, 2012)
This news comes as Slash featuring MYLES KENNEDY AND THE CONSPIRATORS — Myles Kennedy (vocals), Brent Fitz (drums) and Todd Kerns (bass) — are coming off a successful European trek and getting ready to launch a summer headlining tour July 12 in Portland, Oregon. Meanwhile, on July 10, the iconic Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame inductee will be honored with his own star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame.
"Apocalyptic Love" also entered the Top 5 in seven countries outside the U.S.: Canada (No. 2), Australia (No. 2), New Zealand (No. 1), Germany (No. 5), France (No. 7), Japan (No. 2), Sweden (No. 4) and Switzerland (No. 3). All the songs on "Apocalyptic Love" (Dik Hayd International, distributed through EMI Label Services) were written together by Slash and Myles Kennedy.
Slash and his band are riding a wave of critical acclaim with a four-star review in Revolver magazine noting: "'Apocalyptic Love' is at heart a collection of lean, high-octane rock-and-roll tunes built to be blasted out of open-top sports cars or, more suitably, open-air stadiums." (July 2012) Elsewhere, the Los Angeles Times said: "Fans of his work in GN'R and VELVET REVOLVER will find much to embrace in the album's 13 tracks, ranging from the sneering rock hooks of 'You're a Lie' and the heavy metal grind of 'Halo' to the extended instrumental passages on 'Anastasia'." (May 24, 2012)
Marilyn Manson will guest star in season six of the Showtime hit TV show "Californication". The controversial rocker will appear as himself, and in the episode will have what is described as an "unforgettable meeting" with David Duchovny's character Hank Moody.
"Californication" is an American dramedy television series that centers on novelist Hank Moody, who moves to California and suffers from writer's block, which complicates his relationships with his longtime girlfriend Karen (Natascha McElhone) and daughter Becca (Madeleine Martin). The show has been nominated for and has won several awards, including winning one Emmy Award (nominated for two others) and one Golden Globe Award (nominated for three others).
As previously reported, Marilyn Manson has the lead role in a short film called "Wrong Cops", which premiered last month as part of the festivities at the Cannes Film Festival in France. The movie was directed by Quentin Dupieux, whose full-length 2011 feature "Rubber" was a surreal tale about an intelligent tire that murders people. His latest movie, "Wrong", debuted last January at the Sundance Film Festival.
Manson, who recently performed with actor Johnny Depp at the Revolver Golden Gods awards in Los Angeles, told The Pulse Of Radio about his part in "Wrong Cops" and other upcoming projects, "I play a street hustler with braces on my teeth, which was an interesting, fun experience (laughs). I'm working on something with Johnny. Working on something with my friend Eli Roth also. And I'm basically just on a roll of having a good time at being bad and I just want to continue doing it."
Manson has previously had roles in movies such as "Jawbreaker" — with then-fiancée Rose McGowan — "Party Monster" and "Lost Highway".
Manson and Depp recently teamed up to record a new version of Carly Simon's classic song "You're So Vain". The track was included on Manson's upcoming album "Born Villain", which came out on May 1.
"Californication" is an American dramedy television series that centers on novelist Hank Moody, who moves to California and suffers from writer's block, which complicates his relationships with his longtime girlfriend Karen (Natascha McElhone) and daughter Becca (Madeleine Martin). The show has been nominated for and has won several awards, including winning one Emmy Award (nominated for two others) and one Golden Globe Award (nominated for three others).
As previously reported, Marilyn Manson has the lead role in a short film called "Wrong Cops", which premiered last month as part of the festivities at the Cannes Film Festival in France. The movie was directed by Quentin Dupieux, whose full-length 2011 feature "Rubber" was a surreal tale about an intelligent tire that murders people. His latest movie, "Wrong", debuted last January at the Sundance Film Festival.
Manson, who recently performed with actor Johnny Depp at the Revolver Golden Gods awards in Los Angeles, told The Pulse Of Radio about his part in "Wrong Cops" and other upcoming projects, "I play a street hustler with braces on my teeth, which was an interesting, fun experience (laughs). I'm working on something with Johnny. Working on something with my friend Eli Roth also. And I'm basically just on a roll of having a good time at being bad and I just want to continue doing it."
Manson has previously had roles in movies such as "Jawbreaker" — with then-fiancée Rose McGowan — "Party Monster" and "Lost Highway".
Manson and Depp recently teamed up to record a new version of Carly Simon's classic song "You're So Vain". The track was included on Manson's upcoming album "Born Villain", which came out on May 1.
Queensryche fans were stunned earlier this month when the news surfaced that the group had fired lead singer Geoff Tate. In an exclusive interview with Rolling Stone, Tate reveals that he was equally stunned to learn that he was being forced out of the group he began playing with three decades ago. "We've all known each other for 30 years," he says. "Our kids have all grown up together. We've been to barbecues together, and weddings, and divorces, and births of our children. For it to end in such a hostile way, it's just mind-boggling. I just don't understand it."
We spoke with Tate about his difficult final days in Queensryche, the business disagreements that drove them apart, their backstage fight in Brazil, the upcoming lawsuit over the name rights and his future plans as a solo artist.
When exactly did the tensions within Queensryche first surface?
Well, with every band there's tensions that arise over time. You've got different personalities all mixed together and there's always that kind of thing going on. We'd never been a band that had lots of tensions. We've had challenges with making records and with personnel changes. When Chris DeGarmo left the band in 1998, it was a pretty big hit for us. But really, this new thing is kind of out of the blue. I wasn't expecting anything like this at all.
Well, with every band there's tensions that arise over time. You've got different personalities all mixed together and there's always that kind of thing going on. We'd never been a band that had lots of tensions. We've had challenges with making records and with personnel changes. When Chris DeGarmo left the band in 1998, it was a pretty big hit for us. But really, this new thing is kind of out of the blue. I wasn't expecting anything like this at all.
How did this new thing begin?
I think it really began around February of this year. It mainly started with a disagreement about economics, about moving our merchandising to a third party. We had control over our own merchandising company for years and years and we ran it ourselves. It's a very successful entity, and the other three guys wanted to take it out of our hands and hand it over to somebody else and pay them more money to operate it, which just seemed liked a ridiculous business idea to me. That's really where the disagreement started.
I think it really began around February of this year. It mainly started with a disagreement about economics, about moving our merchandising to a third party. We had control over our own merchandising company for years and years and we ran it ourselves. It's a very successful entity, and the other three guys wanted to take it out of our hands and hand it over to somebody else and pay them more money to operate it, which just seemed liked a ridiculous business idea to me. That's really where the disagreement started.
Where did things go from there?
It forced us into trying to talk sense into them, our manager and myself and our business manager, trying to get them to see this was not a good deal. Why were they so adamant about taking money out of our pockets and handing it to somebody else? Our manager found another company that would do it for considerably less and they ultimately went with that.
It forced us into trying to talk sense into them, our manager and myself and our business manager, trying to get them to see this was not a good deal. Why were they so adamant about taking money out of our pockets and handing it to somebody else? Our manager found another company that would do it for considerably less and they ultimately went with that.
How about musically? Were you guys seeing eye-to-eye on the sound of the band at this point?
Well, this is kind of a weird situation too. In the press release they said there were "creative differences." But to have creative differences, you have to have two entities or more offering up creative ideas. And that just wasn't the case. Queensryche has always been my idea, starting from the first record. Queensryche is about albums. It's about concepts and themes, and those concepts were mine. [Laughs] I started out with The Warning, bringing those ideas in for Rage for Order, Operation: Mindcrime . . . all the albums. I write 81% of the music and the lyrics. Of the 144 songs that Queensryche has released, I've written 116 of those.
Well, this is kind of a weird situation too. In the press release they said there were "creative differences." But to have creative differences, you have to have two entities or more offering up creative ideas. And that just wasn't the case. Queensryche has always been my idea, starting from the first record. Queensryche is about albums. It's about concepts and themes, and those concepts were mine. [Laughs] I started out with The Warning, bringing those ideas in for Rage for Order, Operation: Mindcrime . . . all the albums. I write 81% of the music and the lyrics. Of the 144 songs that Queensryche has released, I've written 116 of those.
I am the creative energy in the band, especially since Chris left. When he was in the band it was more of a shared thing between him and I. But once he left, the burden was on me. I don't consider it necessarily a burden. That's what I do. I'm a creative person. I write everyday and I'm constantly coming up with creative ideas. I present them to the other guys and they go, "Yeah, sure, that sounds good to us."
How did they feel about the last album?
Well, you'd have to ask them about that.
Well, you'd have to ask them about that.
Did they ever tell you they weren't happy with it, or with the direction the band was going?
Nope. No. Nothing.
Nope. No. Nothing.
How about the Cabaret tour? Did they like that idea?
Yep. Yep. Everybody signed up for it and we ran out and did a very successful tour with that.
Yep. Yep. Everybody signed up for it and we ran out and did a very successful tour with that.
So they never once said to you they were unhappy with anything that you were doing?
No, never.
No, never.
So in February you started arguing about the merchandise business. How did things go from there? You played some shows after that.
We had quite a few dates on the books. The plan was that we were all going to be doing some side projects and then we were gonna do a handful of Queensryche dates throughout the year. Everybody was going off and doing their own thing this year, and then we were going to regroup in 2013 for a big tour.
We had quite a few dates on the books. The plan was that we were all going to be doing some side projects and then we were gonna do a handful of Queensryche dates throughout the year. Everybody was going off and doing their own thing this year, and then we were going to regroup in 2013 for a big tour.
I've read lots of accounts about what happened in Brazil in April. The story on the Internet goes that you overheard them plotting to fire you and then you pushed Michael to the floor and pointed a knife at Scott. What actually happened?
Well, you know how the Internet goes . . . The way it went was, we had a gig in Sao Paolo, and before the show we had a meeting in the dressing room. I asked them straight up about the rumors I'd heard about them replacing me. I was definitely concerned about this. What kind of plan was that? Was it serious? What was going on? They said that they weren't planning on replacing me, but they had just fired our manager, our office assistant and one of our guitar techs, who all happened to be my family members.
Well, you know how the Internet goes . . . The way it went was, we had a gig in Sao Paolo, and before the show we had a meeting in the dressing room. I asked them straight up about the rumors I'd heard about them replacing me. I was definitely concerned about this. What kind of plan was that? Was it serious? What was going on? They said that they weren't planning on replacing me, but they had just fired our manager, our office assistant and one of our guitar techs, who all happened to be my family members.
I asked them, "Why is this happening?" They really couldn't give me a straight answer, or any kind of answer that made any kind of business sense. It seemed like a personal vendetta against me. Anyway, the meeting was short and we went to do the show. I'm getting ready by my station, ready to go on stage, and Scott [Rockenfield] looks at me and he smirks and says, "We just fired your whole family, and you're next." I just lost it. I tried to punch him. I don't think I landed a punch before somebody grabbed me and hauled me to the side. On my way, I managed to shove [Michael] Wilton, and really, that was it. I cooled down and we did the show, and everything went fine.
There was no knife involved?
No. No knife involved. You can't really get knives into foreign countries.
No. No knife involved. You can't really get knives into foreign countries.
How did they have the ability to fire all those people without your say in the matter?
Well, that's just it. They made up a legal document and sent it to our business manager. It said, "These people are fired." They had worked for us for ten years. It was a completely cold, inhuman thing to do. You don't do that with people. At least you sit them down and say, "Hey, thanks for all the hard work. We're disgruntled and we want to find something else." Something like that. And there was nothing.
Well, that's just it. They made up a legal document and sent it to our business manager. It said, "These people are fired." They had worked for us for ten years. It was a completely cold, inhuman thing to do. You don't do that with people. At least you sit them down and say, "Hey, thanks for all the hard work. We're disgruntled and we want to find something else." Something like that. And there was nothing.
Did they at least explain their thinking to you?
No. It's all out of the blue. Just boom.
No. It's all out of the blue. Just boom.
Do you know why they decided to push you out of the band?
Well, I think it's economically driven, mostly. I'm a 25 percent holder in our companies. I think it's just business in their minds. Cut me out and then split 25 percent and hire some young guy that's gonna work for a weekly wage so they make more money. It's just ridiculous.
Well, I think it's economically driven, mostly. I'm a 25 percent holder in our companies. I think it's just business in their minds. Cut me out and then split 25 percent and hire some young guy that's gonna work for a weekly wage so they make more money. It's just ridiculous.
You'd think they'd make more money with you in the band. Now they're going to be presumably splitting up a smaller pie
It doesn't may any sense. [Laughs] Neither does taking a very successful merchandising company and giving it over to somebody else and then paying them more money to run it. It's bad business. It's short-sightedness, and it's just ridiculous.
It doesn't may any sense. [Laughs] Neither does taking a very successful merchandising company and giving it over to somebody else and then paying them more money to run it. It's bad business. It's short-sightedness, and it's just ridiculous.
The guys recently formed a side project called Rising West that was entirely devoted to playing material from the first five Queensryche albums. It seems to imply they didn't like the more recent material. But they never actually said to you that they preferred the sound the band had in the Eighties?
Hmmm . . . I looked at that forming of that band as a side project. I was surprised that all four guys went in the same direction. That didn't make such sense to me. That felt like some kind of calculated move, but I can't even speculate what they were thinking. But if they want to do a side project, I'm all about that. I've very supportive of everybody in the band doing side projects.
Hmmm . . . I looked at that forming of that band as a side project. I was surprised that all four guys went in the same direction. That didn't make such sense to me. That felt like some kind of calculated move, but I can't even speculate what they were thinking. But if they want to do a side project, I'm all about that. I've very supportive of everybody in the band doing side projects.
But this is a side projects devoted to songs that you wrote
Well, that is a little weird. I would think if they were gonna do a side project, they should probably write some new songs and present them as a group, and then play some Queensryche songs too. If they wanna do that, that's cool. But to do only Queensryche material and only material that I wrote . . . I don't know. It's kind of a slap in the face.
Well, that is a little weird. I would think if they were gonna do a side project, they should probably write some new songs and present them as a group, and then play some Queensryche songs too. If they wanna do that, that's cool. But to do only Queensryche material and only material that I wrote . . . I don't know. It's kind of a slap in the face.
Honestly, I'm not angry over this. I'm more hurt by it all. This has been my life's work. It's been 30 years building this name and this image of the band. All the lyrics and the directions of the albums and the concepts, that is all from me. And to have them do what they're doing and kick me out – God, I didn't realize that these guys were those kind of people. It's shocking to me.
In May Queensryche played Rocklahoma and you told the audience that they sucked. What happened there?
Over the last 30 years I've played thousands of shows. Sometimes the audience needs some direction. [Laughs] They need to be kicked in the ass a bit, and the Rocklahoma audience this year was one of those audiences. They needed to be challenged. They needed to get called out. They needed to get fired up.
Over the last 30 years I've played thousands of shows. Sometimes the audience needs some direction. [Laughs] They need to be kicked in the ass a bit, and the Rocklahoma audience this year was one of those audiences. They needed to be challenged. They needed to get called out. They needed to get fired up.
As a frontman, that's part of my gig. I do that. I am in control of the audience. I'm pushing them. I'm pulling them. I'm riding them at times. That was just me getting the audience fired up. They needed it. They were really a lackadaisical audience that looked really confused. They didn't know what they were supposed to be doing.
How were you able to keep playing shows with the band after the fight in Sao Paulo?
It was difficult. We played the show in Sao Paulo, and then we played the M3 Festival. That went fine. Rocklahoma was fine from a performance standpoint. It was difficult, but as anybody that's ever been in a band knows, the show must go on. You try to do the best you can given what you're working with.
It was difficult. We played the show in Sao Paulo, and then we played the M3 Festival. That went fine. Rocklahoma was fine from a performance standpoint. It was difficult, but as anybody that's ever been in a band knows, the show must go on. You try to do the best you can given what you're working with.
How did they actually tell you that you were fired?
By a legal letter from their attorney to mine.
By a legal letter from their attorney to mine.
In your estimation, do they have the legal right to fire you and carry on as Queensryche?
No. They don't.
No. They don't.
What's gonna happen now?
Well, we're in a lawsuit right now and it's probably gonna get ugly. I filed a claim a couple of days ago. So it's all going to the legal system now to sort out who is what, and who owns what, and that stuff.
Well, we're in a lawsuit right now and it's probably gonna get ugly. I filed a claim a couple of days ago. So it's all going to the legal system now to sort out who is what, and who owns what, and that stuff.
Are they gonna be able to play dates as Queensryche before this is resolved?
Well, they shouldn't. Definitely. It's a situation where, in my opinion, they're doing everything the wrong way. If there was a dispute over who is in the band, or who owns the band name, I think that stuff should all be worked out before they try to book gigs with the name Queensryche.
Well, they shouldn't. Definitely. It's a situation where, in my opinion, they're doing everything the wrong way. If there was a dispute over who is in the band, or who owns the band name, I think that stuff should all be worked out before they try to book gigs with the name Queensryche.
Are you going to form a new version of Queensryche, and possibly have two competing groups out there?
No. I'm not interested in doing that at the moment.
No. I'm not interested in doing that at the moment.
Just to totally clarify, from your point of view, all the differences in the band were about money? These weren't personal issues and they weren't about the musical direction of the band?
Definitely not about music or the direction of the band, because there's only me that's been pushing that and guiding that. The other guys have very little input in what Queensryche does. They just sort of show up and play shows and collect a paycheck. But two of the guys are going through some personal issues. It's not really my place to comment or talk about. I think those personal issues probably have a lot to do with the way they're acting right now.
Definitely not about music or the direction of the band, because there's only me that's been pushing that and guiding that. The other guys have very little input in what Queensryche does. They just sort of show up and play shows and collect a paycheck. But two of the guys are going through some personal issues. It's not really my place to comment or talk about. I think those personal issues probably have a lot to do with the way they're acting right now.
It would seem to many that firing the lead singer is sort of a suicide move. When people buy a ticket to a concert they tend to want to hear the original singer.
It doesn't make any sense at all. It's typical of these guys to have a very short-sighted look on everything. Why on earth would they cancel all remaining Queensryche shows? How are they gonna survive economically? And then, by that action, you're completely alienating the promoters, who you work with closely to book shows for you. So now the promoter is left holding the bag, and that doesn't make the promoter want to work with you again. So here they fire everybody in our organization and don't hire anybody to take care of the business, all the websites, all of our merchandising companies, all that stuff. There's nobody running it right now. They locked it all up, and there's nobody running that stuff. Then they fired our publicist, our booking agent, they canceled all the shows, so now they have no income. What are they doing?
It doesn't make any sense at all. It's typical of these guys to have a very short-sighted look on everything. Why on earth would they cancel all remaining Queensryche shows? How are they gonna survive economically? And then, by that action, you're completely alienating the promoters, who you work with closely to book shows for you. So now the promoter is left holding the bag, and that doesn't make the promoter want to work with you again. So here they fire everybody in our organization and don't hire anybody to take care of the business, all the websites, all of our merchandising companies, all that stuff. There's nobody running it right now. They locked it all up, and there's nobody running that stuff. Then they fired our publicist, our booking agent, they canceled all the shows, so now they have no income. What are they doing?
It doesn't make any sense at all. And that's what's so difficult to stomach about the whole thing. If they had some sort of grand plan that all made sense, I could understand. [Laughs] And I'm forced to engage in a lawsuit with them now. This is not something I want to do at all. I want to make records and I want to tour and live a creative life. I don't want to be bogged down in some legal hassle. My God, but they're forcing me into it. I have no other way to go. I can't give up my life's work and walk away from it. These are my ideas, my concepts, my life, that I'm writing about. What are they gonna do – hand it to some kid to sing?
If you win the lawsuit and get the name rights, are you going to hire new musicians and tour again as Queensryche?
Honestly, I don't know yet. It's too early to make any kind of comment like that.
Honestly, I don't know yet. It's too early to make any kind of comment like that.
Do you think any sort of reunion at any point in the future is even conceivable?
Again, it's just too early to comment. This is all pretty raw and new.
Again, it's just too early to comment. This is all pretty raw and new.
Tell me about your new solo album. What does it sound like?
It should be done in August. I just signed with InsideOutMusic. I'm very excited about it. The album is very hard rock. Very metal, very hard rock, very modern . . . and kind of retro in some ways too. I'm combining retro and modern styles.
It should be done in August. I just signed with InsideOutMusic. I'm very excited about it. The album is very hard rock. Very metal, very hard rock, very modern . . . and kind of retro in some ways too. I'm combining retro and modern styles.
On your solo tour, are you gonna mix solo songs with Queensryche songs?
Yeah, this will be my second solo album. I'll be playing songs from both of my solo albums, and then probably a few Queensryche songs as well.
Yeah, this will be my second solo album. I'll be playing songs from both of my solo albums, and then probably a few Queensryche songs as well.
Are there any misconceptions about this split that you want to clear up?
I don't know what other people think, but with the presentation of of the band I've always tried to do different things – different kinds of records, different influences, bringing those into the writing. And also with the live shows, trying to make them interesting and unique and different, rather than just five guys up there playing songs, I tried to create a theatrical environment for the presentation. And I think people like that. They want to keep seeing that. Without me, that won't happen. I can guarantee that. It won't happen.
I don't know what other people think, but with the presentation of of the band I've always tried to do different things – different kinds of records, different influences, bringing those into the writing. And also with the live shows, trying to make them interesting and unique and different, rather than just five guys up there playing songs, I tried to create a theatrical environment for the presentation. And I think people like that. They want to keep seeing that. Without me, that won't happen. I can guarantee that. It won't happen.
Benante's Premium Coffee is a bold statement from a rock music legend, drummer Charlie Benante of the thrash metal band ANTHRAX.
As the creative force behind ANTHRAX since day one, Charlie Benante is behind much of what you hear, see and feel when it comes to their legendary music.
When it comes to taste of the palatable kind, Benante's opinion as a Bronx-bred Italian is held in the highest regard.
A coffee fanatic practically since birth, Benante not only sports a badass Starbucks tattoo, he now creates his own bean blends and signature roasts under his own brand of java greatness — Benante's.
Sign up now and you will receive a flavorful deal on the first round of beans when the Benante's site launches later this summer.
When asked in an October 2011 interview how he developed such a taste for coffee, Benante said, "Since I was a little kid, I was drinking coffee. My mom said that [laughs] she used to put decaf coffee in my bottles with a bunch of milk, because I used to always drink their coffee at the table! And that was it! I've always loved coffee. So when the Starbucks explosion happened, I was like, 'Yeah!' The thing that I love about Starbucks is that, when I travel abroad, I can get exactly what I want. It's familiar, and I can sit there and be likem, 'OK, I'm cool.'"
Benante in 2008 launched his own line of coffee and coffee products via Legends Cup Coffee, which was reportedly owned by MEGADETH mainman Dave Mustaine's wife Pam. At the time, he stated about the venture, "You all know me, you know how I earn a living. When I'm not bashing on my drums to the sounds of ANTHRAX, I like to enjoy a good cup of coffee. I will drink it hot, iced, frapped and intravenously. I've been all around the world, tried many different blends and I have come up with some combinations that kick ass. If you are a coffee drinker, I think you're going to love it. My coffee is a blend of Central American, African and Asian coffees roasted to a dark color. The aroma is very rich and the cup bold and complex."
As the creative force behind ANTHRAX since day one, Charlie Benante is behind much of what you hear, see and feel when it comes to their legendary music.
When it comes to taste of the palatable kind, Benante's opinion as a Bronx-bred Italian is held in the highest regard.
A coffee fanatic practically since birth, Benante not only sports a badass Starbucks tattoo, he now creates his own bean blends and signature roasts under his own brand of java greatness — Benante's.
Sign up now and you will receive a flavorful deal on the first round of beans when the Benante's site launches later this summer.
When asked in an October 2011 interview how he developed such a taste for coffee, Benante said, "Since I was a little kid, I was drinking coffee. My mom said that [laughs] she used to put decaf coffee in my bottles with a bunch of milk, because I used to always drink their coffee at the table! And that was it! I've always loved coffee. So when the Starbucks explosion happened, I was like, 'Yeah!' The thing that I love about Starbucks is that, when I travel abroad, I can get exactly what I want. It's familiar, and I can sit there and be likem, 'OK, I'm cool.'"
Benante in 2008 launched his own line of coffee and coffee products via Legends Cup Coffee, which was reportedly owned by MEGADETH mainman Dave Mustaine's wife Pam. At the time, he stated about the venture, "You all know me, you know how I earn a living. When I'm not bashing on my drums to the sounds of ANTHRAX, I like to enjoy a good cup of coffee. I will drink it hot, iced, frapped and intravenously. I've been all around the world, tried many different blends and I have come up with some combinations that kick ass. If you are a coffee drinker, I think you're going to love it. My coffee is a blend of Central American, African and Asian coffees roasted to a dark color. The aroma is very rich and the cup bold and complex."
According to the New York Daily News, ANTHRAX has settled a lawsuit brought on by singer Dan Nelson over the fallout from his departure from the veteran metal group.
After more than two hours of closed-door negotiations with a judge in Manhattan federal court on Monday (June 25), ANTHRAX drummer Charlie Benante, bassist Frank Bello and guitarist Scott Ian walked out smiling. Bello told the New York Post after striking a deal with Nelson, "I've got to put a Band-Aid on my tongue from biting it so much."
Details of the settlement were not made public.
Nelson, who was in ANTHRAX for nearly two years — from late 2007 until July 2009 — filed a lawsuit last November claiming that Benante, Bello and Ian falsely stated in "numerous interviews" that he had "abruptly resigned" after getting sick, forcing a cancelation of a tour. The $2.65-million suit also alleged that Benante told BLABBERMOUTH.NET that Nelson "was a bully."
The Long Island native said his ex-bandmates' "intentional defamation" has caused him a loss of income and damaged his reputation.
The Manhattan federal court filing further charged that Nelson co-wrote the tunes on the band's latest album, "Worship Music", but hadn't gotten his fair share of the profits.
Before reaching the deal, ANTHRAX attorney Brian Caplan told the judge that Nelson had been offered a "fairly small dollar amount" and co-authorship of 11 ANTHRAX songs that the band recorded for "Worship Music", according to the New York Daily News.
Nelson and ANTHRAX parted ways in July 2009, despite the fact that he had recorded some vocal parts for what eventually became "Worship Music". A press release issued by the ANTHRAX camp stated that the singer claimed illness left him unable to perform with the rest of the band at a series of festival shows across Europe and that he subsequently left the band. Nelson publicly responded that the allegations were patently untrue and that he had been unceremoniously fired from ANTHRAX.
John Bush, who fronted ANTHRAX between 1992 and 2005, temporarily rejoined the group for a number of shows in late 2009 and early 2010 but stepped aside in May 2010 in order to make room for the return of Joey Belladonna. Belladonna was the lead singer of ANTHRAX from 1984 to 1992, and was considered part of the band's classic lineup (alongside Dan Spitz, Scott Ian, Frank Bello and Charlie Benante), which reunited and toured during 2005 and 2006.
Speaking to Guitar World for the magazine's November 2011 issue, ANTHRAX guitarist Scott Ian stated about Nelson, "He quit the band, dude. I will stick by the statement I made back in the summer of 2009. He quit. He e-mailed management and he quit the band."
When asked if he believes Dan was sick at the time, Ian said, "Physically sick? I have no idea. But his words were, 'I quit. I'm not doing this. Don't come to my house. Don't try and talk me out of this.' Again. Because that wasn't the first time he had quit ANTHRAX; it was the third time. But that was his M.O. He would quit, and then he would make a bunch of demands on us, and we would cave and he would come back." Drummer Charlie Benante added, "First show we did with him, backstage, big argument, big blowout. It was unbelievable. And from that moment we should have known. And all along, he just kept pulling weird shit. Like, he would call me and not tell the other guys, or call one of them and not tell the rest of us, and just talk shit. At one point he caused a major issue in the band between some of the members. But at the end of the day, it was like, "You didn't say that? What? It was a fucking weird time. But he's a bully and he tried to bully us. And at first we let it happen. . . I think there was a point where we were just so vulnerable, we were on this emotional rollercoaster. So at the end of the day it was more like, 'Just give him what he wants. Can we move on?'"
Regarding his split with ANTHRAX in July 2009, Nelson told The Metal Den, "I never live my life with any regrets and never look back and wish I did something different. I chose instead to look forward to the future. We did some great things in the time we wrote and performed together, and I am very proud of that."
Nelson is currently the frontman for BLACKGATES, the new East San Francisco Bay Area/New York metal outfit also featuring drummer Paul Bostaph (ex-TESTAMENT, EXODUS, SLAYER, FORBIDDEN), guitarist Jeremy Epp (THE VENTING MACHINE) and bassist Luis Barillas (THE VENTING MACHINE).
BLACKGATES made its live debut on May 5 at Rooster's Roadhouse in Alameda, California as part of the Cinco De Mayo Metal Throwdown with guests MUDFACE, FALLING TO PIECES and ANOTHER VOID.
Dan Nelson in 2012:
After more than two hours of closed-door negotiations with a judge in Manhattan federal court on Monday (June 25), ANTHRAX drummer Charlie Benante, bassist Frank Bello and guitarist Scott Ian walked out smiling. Bello told the New York Post after striking a deal with Nelson, "I've got to put a Band-Aid on my tongue from biting it so much."
Details of the settlement were not made public.
Nelson, who was in ANTHRAX for nearly two years — from late 2007 until July 2009 — filed a lawsuit last November claiming that Benante, Bello and Ian falsely stated in "numerous interviews" that he had "abruptly resigned" after getting sick, forcing a cancelation of a tour. The $2.65-million suit also alleged that Benante told BLABBERMOUTH.NET that Nelson "was a bully."
The Long Island native said his ex-bandmates' "intentional defamation" has caused him a loss of income and damaged his reputation.
The Manhattan federal court filing further charged that Nelson co-wrote the tunes on the band's latest album, "Worship Music", but hadn't gotten his fair share of the profits.
Before reaching the deal, ANTHRAX attorney Brian Caplan told the judge that Nelson had been offered a "fairly small dollar amount" and co-authorship of 11 ANTHRAX songs that the band recorded for "Worship Music", according to the New York Daily News.
Nelson and ANTHRAX parted ways in July 2009, despite the fact that he had recorded some vocal parts for what eventually became "Worship Music". A press release issued by the ANTHRAX camp stated that the singer claimed illness left him unable to perform with the rest of the band at a series of festival shows across Europe and that he subsequently left the band. Nelson publicly responded that the allegations were patently untrue and that he had been unceremoniously fired from ANTHRAX.
John Bush, who fronted ANTHRAX between 1992 and 2005, temporarily rejoined the group for a number of shows in late 2009 and early 2010 but stepped aside in May 2010 in order to make room for the return of Joey Belladonna. Belladonna was the lead singer of ANTHRAX from 1984 to 1992, and was considered part of the band's classic lineup (alongside Dan Spitz, Scott Ian, Frank Bello and Charlie Benante), which reunited and toured during 2005 and 2006.
Speaking to Guitar World for the magazine's November 2011 issue, ANTHRAX guitarist Scott Ian stated about Nelson, "He quit the band, dude. I will stick by the statement I made back in the summer of 2009. He quit. He e-mailed management and he quit the band."
When asked if he believes Dan was sick at the time, Ian said, "Physically sick? I have no idea. But his words were, 'I quit. I'm not doing this. Don't come to my house. Don't try and talk me out of this.' Again. Because that wasn't the first time he had quit ANTHRAX; it was the third time. But that was his M.O. He would quit, and then he would make a bunch of demands on us, and we would cave and he would come back." Drummer Charlie Benante added, "First show we did with him, backstage, big argument, big blowout. It was unbelievable. And from that moment we should have known. And all along, he just kept pulling weird shit. Like, he would call me and not tell the other guys, or call one of them and not tell the rest of us, and just talk shit. At one point he caused a major issue in the band between some of the members. But at the end of the day, it was like, "You didn't say that? What? It was a fucking weird time. But he's a bully and he tried to bully us. And at first we let it happen. . . I think there was a point where we were just so vulnerable, we were on this emotional rollercoaster. So at the end of the day it was more like, 'Just give him what he wants. Can we move on?'"
Regarding his split with ANTHRAX in July 2009, Nelson told The Metal Den, "I never live my life with any regrets and never look back and wish I did something different. I chose instead to look forward to the future. We did some great things in the time we wrote and performed together, and I am very proud of that."
Nelson is currently the frontman for BLACKGATES, the new East San Francisco Bay Area/New York metal outfit also featuring drummer Paul Bostaph (ex-TESTAMENT, EXODUS, SLAYER, FORBIDDEN), guitarist Jeremy Epp (THE VENTING MACHINE) and bassist Luis Barillas (THE VENTING MACHINE).
BLACKGATES made its live debut on May 5 at Rooster's Roadhouse in Alameda, California as part of the Cinco De Mayo Metal Throwdown with guests MUDFACE, FALLING TO PIECES and ANOTHER VOID.
Dan Nelson in 2012:
"True American Hate", a brand new song from San Francisco Bay Area metallers TESTAMENT, can be streamed using the SoundCloud player below. The track comes off the band's new album, "Dark Roots Of Earth", which will be released in North America on July 31 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD was produced, mixed and mastered by acclaimed British producer Andy Sneap (ARCH ENEMY, NEVERMORE, ACCEPT, EXODUS). Special bonus tracks were recorded, mixed and mastered by Juan Urteaga (MACHINE HEAD, EXODUS, TED NUGENT, NIGHT RANGER) at his Trident Studios. The cover artwork for the effort (see below) was painted by Eliran Kantor, who has previously worked with ATHEIST, SIGH, ANACRUSIS and GWAR, among others.
In a recent interview with Decibel magazine, TESTAMENT frontman Chuck Billy stated about "True American Hate", "[It] was kind of inspired by when we sent all our troops overseas, and we were just seeing in the news when all that was going on a lot of young kids, under 10 years old, out there with their families burning American flags. And that was a pretty shocking thing to see, to see that generation, a kid that young being taught to hate that much. It makes you think what's going to happen, 10 to 15 years from now, when the majority of these kids have just been raised to hate. It struck me as a little odd."
"Dark Roots Of Earth" jewel case CD track listing:
01. Rise Up
02. Native Blood
03. Dark Roots Of Earth
04. True American Hate
05. A Day In The Death
06. Cold Embrace
07. Man Kills Mankind
08. Throne Of Thorns
09. Last Stand For Independence
"Dark Roots Of Earth" CD/DVD track listing:
01. Rise Up
02. Native Blood
03. Dark Roots Of Earth
04. True American Hate
05. A Day In The Death
06. Cold Embrace
07. Man Kills Mankind
08. Throne Of Thorns
09. Last Stand For Independence
Bonus:
10. Dragon Attack (QUEEN cover)
11. Animal Magnetism (SCORPIONS cover)
12. Powerslave (IRON MAIDEN cover)
13. Throne Of Thornes (extended version)
+ Bonus DVD
"Dark Roots Of Earth" vinyl track listing:
Side A:
01. Rise Up
02. Native Blood
03. Dark Roots Of Earth
Side B:
04. True American Hate
05. A Day In The Death
06. Cold Embrace
Side C:
07. Man Kills Mankind
08. Throne Of Thorns
09. Last Stand For Independence
Side D (Bonus):
10. Dragon Attack (QUEEN cover)
11. Animal Magnetism (SCORPIONS cover)
12. Powerslave (IRON MAIDEN cover)
Last week, TESTAMENT shot a video for the song "Native Blood". Guitarist Eric Peterson told Greece's Rock Overdose webzine that the clip was going to be filmed "on an Indian reservation." He added, "It's about people who were oppressed in life. We haven't done [a video] in a while, so we're kind of excited about that."
Billy previously stated about "Native Blood", "[It's] basically a song about my Native heritage. It's almost like a protest song, that the Native Americans have a voice that needs to be heard — that's the chorus of the song."
Regarding the recording processs for "Dark Roots Of Earth", Billy said, "We [recorded] it at our place in Oakland and at Trident Studios and Andy [Sneap, producer] came out and did all the recordings with us — as much as he could — and then we finished off some vocals and guitars at Trident studios. I think over the years Andy really knows the sound of this band, and kinda knows what we want. We've mixed stuff with Andy, so I think he knows without has having to be there physically with him what we are looking for. And I just haven't heard anybody in metal come out with any better mixes! Honestly!"
On the topic of some of the other tracks that will appear on "Dark Roots Of Earth", Billy said, "There's a song called 'Cold Embrace', which we kinda hoped we'd be able to pitch the song into one of the 'Twilight' series movies; it's a song about a girl becoming a vampire and never being able to see the sun again. 'Dark Roots Of Earth' is kind of a play on the band we have together, just like a metaphor, like TESTAMENT is a tree and all of us in this group are really embedded in the planet, in the earth, the environment and our surroundings. It was kind of a play on that. 'Rise Up' is more of a war song, like you're preparing yourself for war, going into battle. There is a lot of cool stuff there."
Due to a "serious injury," TESTAMENT drummer Paul Bostaph was unable to take part in the recording sessions for the CD and was replaced by Gene "The Atomic Clock" Hoglan (DARK ANGEL, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, FEAR FACTORY, DETHKLOK). Bostaph has since announced his departure from the group.
When asked if Hoglan — who is currently touring with TESTAMENT — will become a permanent member of the band, Billy told Horns Up Rocks!, "We'd like him to be, but I think right now we're just taking it tour by tour. We don't know yet. We just kind of unexpected had to do this tour before the record came out, so we haven't really thought about it yet."
Regarding how different it is playing with Gene compared to working with Bostaph, Chuck said, "We played with Gene before on our 'Demonic' record [1997], so we knew exactly what Gene was capable of and what he would bring to the table. We knew that it would definitely bring a different style of drumming, 'cause Gene's a different player than Paul. I think it just worked out. Eric [Peterson, TESTAMENT guitarist] had a lot of the [basic drum patterns] already done [for the new album], and Gene just had to kind of put his style on it."
In a recent interview with Decibel magazine, TESTAMENT frontman Chuck Billy stated about "True American Hate", "[It] was kind of inspired by when we sent all our troops overseas, and we were just seeing in the news when all that was going on a lot of young kids, under 10 years old, out there with their families burning American flags. And that was a pretty shocking thing to see, to see that generation, a kid that young being taught to hate that much. It makes you think what's going to happen, 10 to 15 years from now, when the majority of these kids have just been raised to hate. It struck me as a little odd."
"Dark Roots Of Earth" jewel case CD track listing:
01. Rise Up
02. Native Blood
03. Dark Roots Of Earth
04. True American Hate
05. A Day In The Death
06. Cold Embrace
07. Man Kills Mankind
08. Throne Of Thorns
09. Last Stand For Independence
"Dark Roots Of Earth" CD/DVD track listing:
01. Rise Up
02. Native Blood
03. Dark Roots Of Earth
04. True American Hate
05. A Day In The Death
06. Cold Embrace
07. Man Kills Mankind
08. Throne Of Thorns
09. Last Stand For Independence
Bonus:
10. Dragon Attack (QUEEN cover)
11. Animal Magnetism (SCORPIONS cover)
12. Powerslave (IRON MAIDEN cover)
13. Throne Of Thornes (extended version)
+ Bonus DVD
"Dark Roots Of Earth" vinyl track listing:
Side A:
01. Rise Up
02. Native Blood
03. Dark Roots Of Earth
Side B:
04. True American Hate
05. A Day In The Death
06. Cold Embrace
Side C:
07. Man Kills Mankind
08. Throne Of Thorns
09. Last Stand For Independence
Side D (Bonus):
10. Dragon Attack (QUEEN cover)
11. Animal Magnetism (SCORPIONS cover)
12. Powerslave (IRON MAIDEN cover)
Last week, TESTAMENT shot a video for the song "Native Blood". Guitarist Eric Peterson told Greece's Rock Overdose webzine that the clip was going to be filmed "on an Indian reservation." He added, "It's about people who were oppressed in life. We haven't done [a video] in a while, so we're kind of excited about that."
Billy previously stated about "Native Blood", "[It's] basically a song about my Native heritage. It's almost like a protest song, that the Native Americans have a voice that needs to be heard — that's the chorus of the song."
Regarding the recording processs for "Dark Roots Of Earth", Billy said, "We [recorded] it at our place in Oakland and at Trident Studios and Andy [Sneap, producer] came out and did all the recordings with us — as much as he could — and then we finished off some vocals and guitars at Trident studios. I think over the years Andy really knows the sound of this band, and kinda knows what we want. We've mixed stuff with Andy, so I think he knows without has having to be there physically with him what we are looking for. And I just haven't heard anybody in metal come out with any better mixes! Honestly!"
On the topic of some of the other tracks that will appear on "Dark Roots Of Earth", Billy said, "There's a song called 'Cold Embrace', which we kinda hoped we'd be able to pitch the song into one of the 'Twilight' series movies; it's a song about a girl becoming a vampire and never being able to see the sun again. 'Dark Roots Of Earth' is kind of a play on the band we have together, just like a metaphor, like TESTAMENT is a tree and all of us in this group are really embedded in the planet, in the earth, the environment and our surroundings. It was kind of a play on that. 'Rise Up' is more of a war song, like you're preparing yourself for war, going into battle. There is a lot of cool stuff there."
Due to a "serious injury," TESTAMENT drummer Paul Bostaph was unable to take part in the recording sessions for the CD and was replaced by Gene "The Atomic Clock" Hoglan (DARK ANGEL, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, FEAR FACTORY, DETHKLOK). Bostaph has since announced his departure from the group.
When asked if Hoglan — who is currently touring with TESTAMENT — will become a permanent member of the band, Billy told Horns Up Rocks!, "We'd like him to be, but I think right now we're just taking it tour by tour. We don't know yet. We just kind of unexpected had to do this tour before the record came out, so we haven't really thought about it yet."
Regarding how different it is playing with Gene compared to working with Bostaph, Chuck said, "We played with Gene before on our 'Demonic' record [1997], so we knew exactly what Gene was capable of and what he would bring to the table. We knew that it would definitely bring a different style of drumming, 'cause Gene's a different player than Paul. I think it just worked out. Eric [Peterson, TESTAMENT guitarist] had a lot of the [basic drum patterns] already done [for the new album], and Gene just had to kind of put his style on it."
Former SKID ROW singer Sebastian Bach has been confirmed to headline Friday night at the Hard Rock Hell VI - Fistful Of Rock, which is scheduled to take place November 29 - December 3 at Hafan y Môr in Pwllheli, North Wales.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows:
ACE FREHLEY
BAD TOUCH
BLACKFOOT
CIRCUS TOWN
DAN BAIRD
DANTE FOX
DIE SO FLUID
ELECTRIC BOYS
ELECTRIC MARY
GRAVEYARD
HAVANA ROCKS
JETTBLACK
JOHN MCCOY
L.A. GUNS
MOLLY HATCHET
NIGHT BY NIGHT
PRIMAL FEAR
SEBASTIAN BACH
SERPENTINE
SKINNY MOLLY
TEN
THE BURNING CROWS
THE DOGS D'AMOUR
VICIOUS RUMORS
For more details and tickets, go to www.hardrockhell.com.
Sebastian Bach's video for the song "I'm Alive" can be seen below. The clip is one of three videos (alongside "Kicking & Screaming" and "TunnelVision") that the singer filmed on June 28, 2011 in Hollywood, California with director Devin DeHaven of Fortress Entertainment (PAPA ROACH, WHITESNAKE, METHOD MAN, TALIB KWELI).
"I'm Alive" comes off Bach's new album, "Kicking & Screaming", which sold 6,600 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 73 on The Billboard 200 chart. The singer's previous CD, "Angel Down", opened with 6,400 units back in November 2007 to debut at No. 190.
Bassist Jason Christopher — who filled in for Shawn Economaki during STONE SOUR's spring 2011 tour and who previously played with SLIPKNOT/STONE SOUR frontman Corey Taylor in the JUNK BEER KIDNAP BAND — recently joined Bach's solo group.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows:
ACE FREHLEY
BAD TOUCH
BLACKFOOT
CIRCUS TOWN
DAN BAIRD
DANTE FOX
DIE SO FLUID
ELECTRIC BOYS
ELECTRIC MARY
GRAVEYARD
HAVANA ROCKS
JETTBLACK
JOHN MCCOY
L.A. GUNS
MOLLY HATCHET
NIGHT BY NIGHT
PRIMAL FEAR
SEBASTIAN BACH
SERPENTINE
SKINNY MOLLY
TEN
THE BURNING CROWS
THE DOGS D'AMOUR
VICIOUS RUMORS
For more details and tickets, go to www.hardrockhell.com.
Sebastian Bach's video for the song "I'm Alive" can be seen below. The clip is one of three videos (alongside "Kicking & Screaming" and "TunnelVision") that the singer filmed on June 28, 2011 in Hollywood, California with director Devin DeHaven of Fortress Entertainment (PAPA ROACH, WHITESNAKE, METHOD MAN, TALIB KWELI).
"I'm Alive" comes off Bach's new album, "Kicking & Screaming", which sold 6,600 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 73 on The Billboard 200 chart. The singer's previous CD, "Angel Down", opened with 6,400 units back in November 2007 to debut at No. 190.
Bassist Jason Christopher — who filled in for Shawn Economaki during STONE SOUR's spring 2011 tour and who previously played with SLIPKNOT/STONE SOUR frontman Corey Taylor in the JUNK BEER KIDNAP BAND — recently joined Bach's solo group.
Fans of acclaimed metal pioneers KORN can now experience the thrill of their live show at home when "The Path Of Totality Tour - Live At The Hollywood Palladium" hits stores on September 4 from Shout! Factory. Recorded live on December 6, 2011 in celebration of their tenth studio album, "The Path Of Totality", the concert features the iconic band performing in front of out a sold-out crowd at the famed Hollywood Palladium alongside some very special guests. Available on Blu-ray disc and DVD, "The Path Of Totality Tour - Live At The Hollywood Palladium" contains special bonus features including interviews with Jonathan Davis, James "Munky" Shaffer, Fieldy, Ray Luzier, Zachary Baird and album, Blu-ray, DVD cover artist Roboto, as well as a bonus live CD of the concert.
With "The Path Of Totality", two-time Grammy Award-winning KORN changed the rock landscape again with a genre-defying foray into electronic and dubstep music, mixed with the innovative brand of metal KORN helped create. "The Path Of Totality Tour - Live" showcases the band in top form, highlighting landmark songs such as "Freak On A Leash" and "Falling Away From Me" as well as new smash hits such as "Get Up!" and "Narcissistic Cannibal". Joining KORN onstage are several of the DJs who collaborated on "The Path Of Totality", including Skrillex, 12th Planet, Flinch, Downlink, Excision, Datsik and Kill The Noise.
"It's future metal," declares vocalist Jonathan Davis. "We're mixing metal and electro music, and you're not supposed to do that. Since day one, KORN has always been all about going against the grain, experimenting, and trying to take music different places."
"The Path Of Totality Tour - Live At The Hollywood Palladium" was produced by Barry Summers for Rock Fuel LLC.
The track listing is as follows:
01. Get Up!
02. Kill Mercy Within
03. Illuminati
04. Chaos Lives In Everything
05. My Wall
06. Way Too Far
07. Narcissistic Cannibal
08. Here To Stay
09. Freak On A Leash
10. Falling Away From Me
11. Predictable
12. Another Brick In The Wall
13. Shoots And Ladders
14. One
15. Got The Life
16. Blind
Bonus Features:
* Interviews with Jonathan Davis, James "Munky" Shaffer, Fieldy Arvizu, Ray Luzier, Zachary Baird and album, Blu-ray and DVD cover artist Roboto
* Bonus CD of the concert
With "The Path Of Totality", two-time Grammy Award-winning KORN changed the rock landscape again with a genre-defying foray into electronic and dubstep music, mixed with the innovative brand of metal KORN helped create. "The Path Of Totality Tour - Live" showcases the band in top form, highlighting landmark songs such as "Freak On A Leash" and "Falling Away From Me" as well as new smash hits such as "Get Up!" and "Narcissistic Cannibal". Joining KORN onstage are several of the DJs who collaborated on "The Path Of Totality", including Skrillex, 12th Planet, Flinch, Downlink, Excision, Datsik and Kill The Noise.
"It's future metal," declares vocalist Jonathan Davis. "We're mixing metal and electro music, and you're not supposed to do that. Since day one, KORN has always been all about going against the grain, experimenting, and trying to take music different places."
"The Path Of Totality Tour - Live At The Hollywood Palladium" was produced by Barry Summers for Rock Fuel LLC.
The track listing is as follows:
01. Get Up!
02. Kill Mercy Within
03. Illuminati
04. Chaos Lives In Everything
05. My Wall
06. Way Too Far
07. Narcissistic Cannibal
08. Here To Stay
09. Freak On A Leash
10. Falling Away From Me
11. Predictable
12. Another Brick In The Wall
13. Shoots And Ladders
14. One
15. Got The Life
16. Blind
Bonus Features:
* Interviews with Jonathan Davis, James "Munky" Shaffer, Fieldy Arvizu, Ray Luzier, Zachary Baird and album, Blu-ray and DVD cover artist Roboto
* Bonus CD of the concert
ARTISTdirect.com editor-in-chief Rick Florino recently conducted an interview with SLIPKNOT singer Corey Taylor. A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.
ARTISTdirect.com: Is "Antennas To Hell" like a photo album for SLIPKNOT?
Taylor: Yeah, I definitely think it's a snapshot. This is our salute to the Paul [Gray, late SLIPKNOT bassist] years. That's what I'm going to refer to it as. We made so many great songs with Paul. Even the songs Paul didn't write he made better naturally. This is our way of showing a testament to Paul and what his legacy was as well as how many great songs came from those years. It's going to be weird and interesting to see what happens in the future but , if nothing else happens, we had four great albums with Paul. This is our little salute to him.
ARTISTdirect.com: Do you feel like it's a proper gateway for younger fans?
Taylor: Definitely! It's not like we just give them our "radio hits," which I can't say without laughing. To be honest, it's so weird we even have songs on the radio. It's a great blend of the songs that were played on the radio and the songs we played live that people made hits. Without the fans, we wouldn't have any of this. We certainly wouldn't have any "hits." It's a combination of the live anthems people expect from us when they come to a show and the songs on the radio.
ARTISTdirect.com: What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of "All Hope Is Gone"?
Taylor: It was really a perfect storm of music coming in. Paul and Joey [Jordison, drums] had put together some really good stuff. Jim [Root] and Joey had actually put some stuff together. I brought a song in. There were actually some songs that came out of jamming together in the studio that made that album what it was. It was cool to come in every day and hear the potential coming out. All of this incredible potential was being realized, and it was cool to hear that. For me, it was a step towards the maturity of the band. We started doing that with "Vol. 3: The Subliminal Verses", but with "All Hope Is Gone" we found we could blend all of that ferocity with that different approach towards music. We could still have the heavy but branch out. If you want to talk about the Paul years, that was a great album to leave the people with in a way.
ARTISTdirect.com: Is "Antennas To Hell" like a photo album for SLIPKNOT?
Taylor: Yeah, I definitely think it's a snapshot. This is our salute to the Paul [Gray, late SLIPKNOT bassist] years. That's what I'm going to refer to it as. We made so many great songs with Paul. Even the songs Paul didn't write he made better naturally. This is our way of showing a testament to Paul and what his legacy was as well as how many great songs came from those years. It's going to be weird and interesting to see what happens in the future but , if nothing else happens, we had four great albums with Paul. This is our little salute to him.
ARTISTdirect.com: Do you feel like it's a proper gateway for younger fans?
Taylor: Definitely! It's not like we just give them our "radio hits," which I can't say without laughing. To be honest, it's so weird we even have songs on the radio. It's a great blend of the songs that were played on the radio and the songs we played live that people made hits. Without the fans, we wouldn't have any of this. We certainly wouldn't have any "hits." It's a combination of the live anthems people expect from us when they come to a show and the songs on the radio.
ARTISTdirect.com: What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of "All Hope Is Gone"?
Taylor: It was really a perfect storm of music coming in. Paul and Joey [Jordison, drums] had put together some really good stuff. Jim [Root] and Joey had actually put some stuff together. I brought a song in. There were actually some songs that came out of jamming together in the studio that made that album what it was. It was cool to come in every day and hear the potential coming out. All of this incredible potential was being realized, and it was cool to hear that. For me, it was a step towards the maturity of the band. We started doing that with "Vol. 3: The Subliminal Verses", but with "All Hope Is Gone" we found we could blend all of that ferocity with that different approach towards music. We could still have the heavy but branch out. If you want to talk about the Paul years, that was a great album to leave the people with in a way.
"Everybody Have A Good Time", the new single from British rockers THE DARKNESS, can be streamed at Spin.com. The video for the song will debut on Vevo.com on Thursday, June 28.
"Everybody Have A Good Time" is available on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, Rhapsody and everywhere online. The track comes off the band's third studio album, "Hot Cakes", which will be released on August 21 via Wind-Up (North and South America) and PIAS (U.K. and rest of the world). After a seven-year wait, "Hot Cakes" — produced by the band's Justin and Dan Hawkins with longtime collaborator Nick Brine and mixed by Bob Ezrin — will deliver the epic rock anthems and infectious pop choruses the multi-platinum band has become renowned for worldwide.
THE DARKNESS returned to the U.S. last month for select dates and three festival appearances: May 19 at InfieldFest (Baltimore, Maryland); May 20 at Rock On The Range (Columbus, Ohio); and May 26 at Rocklahoma (Pryor, Oklahoma). They will now perform at festivals across Europe before teaming with LADY GAGA for her "Born This Way Ball" tour.
Since THE DARKNESS — Justin Hawkins (vocals/guitars), Dan Hawkins (guitars/backing vocals), Frankie Poullain (bass) and Ed Graham (drums) — resumed active service almost 12 months ago on the main stage of 2011's Download festival with their original lineup, the British group have accomplished a lot. They've completed sold-out tours of the U.K. and North America; were featured in a Superbowl ad (broadcast to over 100 million viewers in the tense fourth quarter of the game); finished recording "Hot Cakes" and released a free teaser track and video, "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us".
THE DARKNESS made its U.K. live comeback in June 2011 in front of just 200 people at the Norwich Waterfront.
THE DARKNESS' first album, "Permission To Land", was released in 2003, hitting the No. 1 spot in the U.K. chart and winning "MasterCard British Album" at the 2004 Brit Awards (along with "Best British Group" and "British Rock Act").
Between 2003 and 2006, THE DARKNESS was honored with many awards and accolades; along with three Brit Awards, the band won an Ivor Novello in 2004 for "Songwriters Of The Year", four Kerrang! Awards, two Metal Hammer Awards, an MTV Europe Music Award and even an Elle Style Award in 2004 for "Most Stylish Band".
"Everybody Have A Good Time" is available on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, Rhapsody and everywhere online. The track comes off the band's third studio album, "Hot Cakes", which will be released on August 21 via Wind-Up (North and South America) and PIAS (U.K. and rest of the world). After a seven-year wait, "Hot Cakes" — produced by the band's Justin and Dan Hawkins with longtime collaborator Nick Brine and mixed by Bob Ezrin — will deliver the epic rock anthems and infectious pop choruses the multi-platinum band has become renowned for worldwide.
THE DARKNESS returned to the U.S. last month for select dates and three festival appearances: May 19 at InfieldFest (Baltimore, Maryland); May 20 at Rock On The Range (Columbus, Ohio); and May 26 at Rocklahoma (Pryor, Oklahoma). They will now perform at festivals across Europe before teaming with LADY GAGA for her "Born This Way Ball" tour.
Since THE DARKNESS — Justin Hawkins (vocals/guitars), Dan Hawkins (guitars/backing vocals), Frankie Poullain (bass) and Ed Graham (drums) — resumed active service almost 12 months ago on the main stage of 2011's Download festival with their original lineup, the British group have accomplished a lot. They've completed sold-out tours of the U.K. and North America; were featured in a Superbowl ad (broadcast to over 100 million viewers in the tense fourth quarter of the game); finished recording "Hot Cakes" and released a free teaser track and video, "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us".
THE DARKNESS made its U.K. live comeback in June 2011 in front of just 200 people at the Norwich Waterfront.
THE DARKNESS' first album, "Permission To Land", was released in 2003, hitting the No. 1 spot in the U.K. chart and winning "MasterCard British Album" at the 2004 Brit Awards (along with "Best British Group" and "British Rock Act").
Between 2003 and 2006, THE DARKNESS was honored with many awards and accolades; along with three Brit Awards, the band won an Ivor Novello in 2004 for "Songwriters Of The Year", four Kerrang! Awards, two Metal Hammer Awards, an MTV Europe Music Award and even an Elle Style Award in 2004 for "Most Stylish Band".
Swedish doom metal kings WITCHCRAFT have set "Legend" as the title of their fourth album, due on September 21 via the band's new label home, Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to 2007's "The Alchemist" was recorded with renowned producer Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios (KREATOR, OPETH, AMON AMARTH, PARADISE LOST, KATATONIA) in Örebro, Sweden. The CD marks the recording debut of the band's new members Simon Solomon (guitar), Tom Jondelius (guitar) and Oscar Johansson (drums). Going forward, WITCHCRAFT leader Magnus Pelander will focus on his unique vocals without playing guitar anymore.
Commented Pelander: "At last the fourth album is done. It's with relief and euphoria we say this!"
WITCHCRAFT, who formed in 2000 in tribute to band heroes Roky Erickson and Bobby Liebling (PENTAGRAM), create heavy, blues-based rock augmented with touches of psychedelica and late '60s pop flourishes. The quartet's first-class songs reference the darker side of hard rock while remaining surprisingly accessible. Flying largely under the radar of the popular music landscape previously, WITCHCRAFT is a hallowed name in underground circles and has found itself championed by a diverse cross-section of distinguished music adherents including American actor Elijah Wood, who publicly called the band "amazing," and DOWN frontman Philip Anselmo, who in 2009 proudly proclaimed WITCHCRAFT as his "new favorite band."
Recorded 100% pro-tools and digital free at Stockholm's UpandRunning studios with producer Tom Hakava and using only vintage amplification, WITCHCRAFT's latest album, "The Alchemist", showcases a group of musicians at ease with their playing and songwriting. Addictive melodies flow simultaneously with catchy, heavy riffs, while maintaining a relaxed and laid back feel throughout. Among its many highlights, the album features the standout songs "Walk Between the Lines" and "Hey Doctor" as well as the record's plat du jour, the three-part progressive rock odyssey of the title track "The Alchemist".
Commented Pelander: "At last the fourth album is done. It's with relief and euphoria we say this!"
WITCHCRAFT, who formed in 2000 in tribute to band heroes Roky Erickson and Bobby Liebling (PENTAGRAM), create heavy, blues-based rock augmented with touches of psychedelica and late '60s pop flourishes. The quartet's first-class songs reference the darker side of hard rock while remaining surprisingly accessible. Flying largely under the radar of the popular music landscape previously, WITCHCRAFT is a hallowed name in underground circles and has found itself championed by a diverse cross-section of distinguished music adherents including American actor Elijah Wood, who publicly called the band "amazing," and DOWN frontman Philip Anselmo, who in 2009 proudly proclaimed WITCHCRAFT as his "new favorite band."
Recorded 100% pro-tools and digital free at Stockholm's UpandRunning studios with producer Tom Hakava and using only vintage amplification, WITCHCRAFT's latest album, "The Alchemist", showcases a group of musicians at ease with their playing and songwriting. Addictive melodies flow simultaneously with catchy, heavy riffs, while maintaining a relaxed and laid back feel throughout. Among its many highlights, the album features the standout songs "Walk Between the Lines" and "Hey Doctor" as well as the record's plat du jour, the three-part progressive rock odyssey of the title track "The Alchemist".
Symphonic/power metal band HELIOSAGA has announced the addition of vocalist Chelsea Knaack to the group's ranks.
Knaack is known for her lead vocals in DESDEMON and brought her impressive talent to their 2011 release on Radtone Music in Japan.
Damien Villarreal formed HELIOSAGA in 2010 with a dynamic selection of musicians around San Antonio, Texas. HELIOSAGA's powerful moving melodies, enhanced by Knaack's passionate soprano voice, will make the band a force among the ranks of the female-fronted genre.
HELIOSAGA is writing new material and will begin pre-production for label representation following Chelsea's relocation to Texas this summer.
The name HELIOSAGA is a metaphor derived from helios, the Greek word for sun, and saga meaning the story/ history; thus, HELIOSAGA represents the journey of life.
Knaack states: "I was looking for a new chapter in my life with a new adventure and HELIOSAGA fit the plan. It was also the chemistry with the guys; we are all very similar in many ways. It will be a great adventure indeed."
HELIOSAGA adds: "Chelsea's vocals are moving, her stage presence is captivating and she has an immense passion for this kind of music. Shortly after meeting we realized how well we click on personal and professional levels, so we can say that we have gained a great friend and an incredible bandmate! We are eager to begin recording our debut album together, which will be released early next year."
HELIOSAGA is Chelsea Knaack (lead vocals), Damien Villarreal (guitar and keyboards), Ken Lambdin (guitars), Jacob Horning (bass), and Jordan Ames (drums).
Knaack is known for her lead vocals in DESDEMON and brought her impressive talent to their 2011 release on Radtone Music in Japan.
Damien Villarreal formed HELIOSAGA in 2010 with a dynamic selection of musicians around San Antonio, Texas. HELIOSAGA's powerful moving melodies, enhanced by Knaack's passionate soprano voice, will make the band a force among the ranks of the female-fronted genre.
HELIOSAGA is writing new material and will begin pre-production for label representation following Chelsea's relocation to Texas this summer.
The name HELIOSAGA is a metaphor derived from helios, the Greek word for sun, and saga meaning the story/ history; thus, HELIOSAGA represents the journey of life.
Knaack states: "I was looking for a new chapter in my life with a new adventure and HELIOSAGA fit the plan. It was also the chemistry with the guys; we are all very similar in many ways. It will be a great adventure indeed."
HELIOSAGA adds: "Chelsea's vocals are moving, her stage presence is captivating and she has an immense passion for this kind of music. Shortly after meeting we realized how well we click on personal and professional levels, so we can say that we have gained a great friend and an incredible bandmate! We are eager to begin recording our debut album together, which will be released early next year."
HELIOSAGA is Chelsea Knaack (lead vocals), Damien Villarreal (guitar and keyboards), Ken Lambdin (guitars), Jacob Horning (bass), and Jordan Ames (drums).
Guitarist/vocalist Joseph Duplantier of French progressive metallers GOJIRA was recently asked by U.K.'s Metal Hammer magazine what it's like to be touring with their heavy metal heroes METALLICA. "We ignore it," Duplantier laughed. "'Cause otherwise we would have a heart attack or something. I don't know. It's really amazing. We talk to these guys on tour. We see them. We go in their dressing room, or they come to our dressing room. I mean, it's amazing. It's not just a big institution, with people working for them. They're still paying attention to every detail and they talk to the opening act. They're gentlemen. It's very good to be around them. We feel blessed. They make us feel important when they talk to us. It's very rewarding and it's a very nice feeling."
GOJIRA opened for METALLICA — along with LAMB OF GOD — on a North American tour in September/October 2009 and recently made a number of European festival appearances with METALLICA.
In a 2009 interview, Duplantier stated about sharing the stage with METALLICA, "It's like a dream come true. We are a band because of METALLICA. We owe so much to [the METALLICA guys]. When I saw them, the only thing I [wanted] to tell them is, 'Thank you very much,' and what [METALLICA guitarist/vocalist] James Hetfield answered is, 'You're welcome.'"
GOJIRA opened for METALLICA — along with LAMB OF GOD — on a North American tour in September/October 2009 and recently made a number of European festival appearances with METALLICA.
In a 2009 interview, Duplantier stated about sharing the stage with METALLICA, "It's like a dream come true. We are a band because of METALLICA. We owe so much to [the METALLICA guys]. When I saw them, the only thing I [wanted] to tell them is, 'Thank you very much,' and what [METALLICA guitarist/vocalist] James Hetfield answered is, 'You're welcome.'"
PELICAN, the post-metal quartet from Chicago, Illinois, has released the following statement:
"It is with resignation that we report that our guitarist and founding member Laurent Schroeder-Lebec is taking an indefinite hiatus from the band. Many may have already noticed his absence from live shows over the last couple of years (he stopped traveling for out of town shows in 2010), his role as a composer is now also going on hold for the foreseeable future. The decision is not due to any internal turmoil or conflict — since our last full-length album, Laurent has made his family and career the central focus of his life, which the members of PELICAN completely respect and honor.
"In 2010, when his interest in playing out of town declined, Laurent was the first to suggest that we find a substitute guitarist and continue getting the music out to our fans. He continued to play local shows with us and rehearse (in the rare instances that all four of us were in Chicago), but after recording sessions for our last EP, 'Ataraxia/Taraxis', when we were ready to begin writing our next album and began planning the writing sessions it would entail, Laurent confided that his heart wasn't fully in it and, rather than deliver music that was half-hearted, he would rather sit it out.
"Laurent is our friend and our brother. While his decision is disheartening, we completely respect it. We don't yet know what the repercussions of his departure will be, but we're thrilled by the strides made on our last EP and excited with the direction of the new material composed since its recording. Laurent has given us his blessing to carry on. For now Laurent's place at live shows will be filled, as it has been for the past two years, by the immensely talented Dallas Thomas of the superb band THE SWAN KING. Anyone who saw our shows out West last year or in Europe this spring knows he is a shredder and fully up to the task. As for writing, we are currently working as a three-piece since we're not looking to significantly alter the DNA on the compositional front. We hope that you stick with us and see what coming; as said previously we're very excited with the path we're on.
"We've said since day one that PELICAN is and always will be the four of us — we stand by that statement. Laurent is an integral part of this band whether or not he is standing on stage or composing with us. His unique musical voice and confidence of purpose have impacted us all and is present in every show and note we play. Our best wishes are with him in everything he does."
PELICAN's long-awaited follow-up to their sprawling 2009 full-length "What We All Come To Need", a four-song EP, "Ataraxia/Taraxis", was released via Southern Lord on April 10.
"It is with resignation that we report that our guitarist and founding member Laurent Schroeder-Lebec is taking an indefinite hiatus from the band. Many may have already noticed his absence from live shows over the last couple of years (he stopped traveling for out of town shows in 2010), his role as a composer is now also going on hold for the foreseeable future. The decision is not due to any internal turmoil or conflict — since our last full-length album, Laurent has made his family and career the central focus of his life, which the members of PELICAN completely respect and honor.
"In 2010, when his interest in playing out of town declined, Laurent was the first to suggest that we find a substitute guitarist and continue getting the music out to our fans. He continued to play local shows with us and rehearse (in the rare instances that all four of us were in Chicago), but after recording sessions for our last EP, 'Ataraxia/Taraxis', when we were ready to begin writing our next album and began planning the writing sessions it would entail, Laurent confided that his heart wasn't fully in it and, rather than deliver music that was half-hearted, he would rather sit it out.
"Laurent is our friend and our brother. While his decision is disheartening, we completely respect it. We don't yet know what the repercussions of his departure will be, but we're thrilled by the strides made on our last EP and excited with the direction of the new material composed since its recording. Laurent has given us his blessing to carry on. For now Laurent's place at live shows will be filled, as it has been for the past two years, by the immensely talented Dallas Thomas of the superb band THE SWAN KING. Anyone who saw our shows out West last year or in Europe this spring knows he is a shredder and fully up to the task. As for writing, we are currently working as a three-piece since we're not looking to significantly alter the DNA on the compositional front. We hope that you stick with us and see what coming; as said previously we're very excited with the path we're on.
"We've said since day one that PELICAN is and always will be the four of us — we stand by that statement. Laurent is an integral part of this band whether or not he is standing on stage or composing with us. His unique musical voice and confidence of purpose have impacted us all and is present in every show and note we play. Our best wishes are with him in everything he does."
PELICAN's long-awaited follow-up to their sprawling 2009 full-length "What We All Come To Need", a four-song EP, "Ataraxia/Taraxis", was released via Southern Lord on April 10.
Due to "creative differences," guitarist Peter Wichers and Swedish metallers SOILWORK have decided to part ways for the second time.
Commented Peter: "I want to thank everyone who has supported SOILWORK over the years. It has been a wild and fun ride, but it's time for me to explore different options in my career. I will cherish all the amazing moments I have gathered from my time with SOILWORK, and I would not be where I am today without the help from you fans, my family and SOILWORK."
Wichers originally quit SOILWORK in late 2005 and was replaced by Daniel Antonsson (DARK TRANQUILLITY, DIMENSION ZERO).
Peter played on every SOILWORK album with the exception of 2007's "Sworn To A Great Divide".
SOILWORK's latest album, "The Panic Broadcast", was released in Europe on July 2, 2010 and in North America on July 13, 2010 via Nuclear Blast Records.
"The Panic Broadcast" was SOILWORK's studio debut with axeman Sylvain Coudret, who joined in 2008.
Commented Peter: "I want to thank everyone who has supported SOILWORK over the years. It has been a wild and fun ride, but it's time for me to explore different options in my career. I will cherish all the amazing moments I have gathered from my time with SOILWORK, and I would not be where I am today without the help from you fans, my family and SOILWORK."
Wichers originally quit SOILWORK in late 2005 and was replaced by Daniel Antonsson (DARK TRANQUILLITY, DIMENSION ZERO).
Peter played on every SOILWORK album with the exception of 2007's "Sworn To A Great Divide".
SOILWORK's latest album, "The Panic Broadcast", was released in Europe on July 2, 2010 and in North America on July 13, 2010 via Nuclear Blast Records.
"The Panic Broadcast" was SOILWORK's studio debut with axeman Sylvain Coudret, who joined in 2008.
According to Über Rock, guitarist Greg Pullin has left I AM I, the new band led by former DRAGONFORCE singer ZP Theart — less than four days after it was announced the group was parting ways with its drummer Paul Clarke Jr. for "personal reasons."
Comments Pullin: "As a young musician, I was absolutely thrilled to be asked to join the band. As soon as I first heard their album in the days before the auditions I knew I loved the style of music, and since then have looked forward to performing and touring with the guys throughout the future. However, although I had a genuinely strong connection with everyone musically, and faced the opportunity with full commitment, I have decided to leave for personal reasons.
"I have enjoyed my time rehearsing and performing with the guys, and it has been particularly enjoyable to work with lead guitarist and composer Jacob [Ziemba]. As well as having a phenomenal ability as a guitar player, he demonstrates an outstanding capability to write brilliant music, which has undoubtedly been the major driving force behind the band's style and sound on [I AM I's debut album] 'Event Horizon'."
In other news, I AM I has signed a worldwide publishing deal through Sony/ATV Music. Their deal, via Albam Songs, means they join a roster that includes Bob Dylan, THE BEATLES, Robert Plant, PEARL JAM, BON JOVI and Lady Gaga.
"I AM I are an incredibly exciting band. It's great to be involved from the very beginning," says Alan Bambrough of Sony/ATV Music Publishing Limited. "'Event Horizon' is a brilliant album and there's no limit to what these guys can achieve."
I AM I has already recruited a replacement for Clarke, but has not revealed the new musician's identity.
I AM I's next live appearance will take place on August 11 at this year's Bloodstock Open Air festival at Catton Hall in Walton On Trent, Derbyshire, England.
I AM I made its live debut on May 27 at Birmingham, England's O2 Academy 2.
I AM I released its debut album, "Event Horizon", independently on May 26. Written and produced by Theart and Jacob Ziemba and mixed and mastered by Roland Grapow (HELLOWEEN, MASTERPLAN), the CD is described in a press release as "an absolutely blistering slice of heavy rock liberally infused with Theart's passion, energy and soaring vocals."
"Event Horizon" was, according to I AM I, the first-ever heavy metal album to be released solely on USB. The stick is packaged in a CD case and includes full artwork and all the usual content you would expect on a disc and more. The effort is available to order from the official I AM I web site.
"Event Horizon" track listing:
01. This is My Life
02. Silent Genocide
03. Stay A While
04. Cross The Line
05. In The Air Tonight
06. King In Ruins
07. Kiss Of Judas
08. Dust 2 Dust
09. Wasted Wonders
10. Pave The Way
The "Silent Genocide" video can be seen below.
DRAGONFORCE parted ways with Theart in March 2010 "due to insurmountable differences of musical opinion," according to a statement released by the British extreme epic power metal band.
After entries from thousands of hopefuls across the globe, DRAGONFORCE in March 2011 welcomed then-23-year-old Marc Hudson to the group.
Comments Pullin: "As a young musician, I was absolutely thrilled to be asked to join the band. As soon as I first heard their album in the days before the auditions I knew I loved the style of music, and since then have looked forward to performing and touring with the guys throughout the future. However, although I had a genuinely strong connection with everyone musically, and faced the opportunity with full commitment, I have decided to leave for personal reasons.
"I have enjoyed my time rehearsing and performing with the guys, and it has been particularly enjoyable to work with lead guitarist and composer Jacob [Ziemba]. As well as having a phenomenal ability as a guitar player, he demonstrates an outstanding capability to write brilliant music, which has undoubtedly been the major driving force behind the band's style and sound on [I AM I's debut album] 'Event Horizon'."
In other news, I AM I has signed a worldwide publishing deal through Sony/ATV Music. Their deal, via Albam Songs, means they join a roster that includes Bob Dylan, THE BEATLES, Robert Plant, PEARL JAM, BON JOVI and Lady Gaga.
"I AM I are an incredibly exciting band. It's great to be involved from the very beginning," says Alan Bambrough of Sony/ATV Music Publishing Limited. "'Event Horizon' is a brilliant album and there's no limit to what these guys can achieve."
I AM I has already recruited a replacement for Clarke, but has not revealed the new musician's identity.
I AM I's next live appearance will take place on August 11 at this year's Bloodstock Open Air festival at Catton Hall in Walton On Trent, Derbyshire, England.
I AM I made its live debut on May 27 at Birmingham, England's O2 Academy 2.
I AM I released its debut album, "Event Horizon", independently on May 26. Written and produced by Theart and Jacob Ziemba and mixed and mastered by Roland Grapow (HELLOWEEN, MASTERPLAN), the CD is described in a press release as "an absolutely blistering slice of heavy rock liberally infused with Theart's passion, energy and soaring vocals."
"Event Horizon" was, according to I AM I, the first-ever heavy metal album to be released solely on USB. The stick is packaged in a CD case and includes full artwork and all the usual content you would expect on a disc and more. The effort is available to order from the official I AM I web site.
"Event Horizon" track listing:
01. This is My Life
02. Silent Genocide
03. Stay A While
04. Cross The Line
05. In The Air Tonight
06. King In Ruins
07. Kiss Of Judas
08. Dust 2 Dust
09. Wasted Wonders
10. Pave The Way
The "Silent Genocide" video can be seen below.
DRAGONFORCE parted ways with Theart in March 2010 "due to insurmountable differences of musical opinion," according to a statement released by the British extreme epic power metal band.
After entries from thousands of hopefuls across the globe, DRAGONFORCE in March 2011 welcomed then-23-year-old Marc Hudson to the group.
ATHEIST, the legendary technical metal band, has announced a hometown headline show and warm-up to their "Death To All" tour appearance. The concert will take place on June 29 in Sarasota, Florida at Jake's Tavern and will mark the return of bassist Tony Choy to ATHEIST.
Commented ATHEIST founder Kelly Shaefer: "We're very excited to announce that Tony Choy will be appearing on our upcoming dates; a headlining club gig at Jake's Tavern in Sarasota, Florida and the Orlando date of the 'Death To All Tour' 2012. It's been more than two years since Tony has played live with us. Just having him along will make this 'Death To All' show with the CYNIC guys, Gene Hoglan, Steve DiGiorgio, and everyone else a night to remember."
ATHEIST last year announced the addition of guitarist Jason Holloway to the group's ranks following the departure of Jonathan Thompson, who took a job in the medical field.
ATHEIST — Kelly Shaefer (vocals), Steve Flynn (drums), Tony Choy (bass), Christoper Martin (guitar), Jason Holloway (guitar) — is writing material for its new full-length album and follow-up to 2010's critically-acclaimed "Jupiter" CD.
"Jupiter" landed at position No. 88 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.
"Jupiter" was released on November 9, 2010 (one day earlier internationally) via Season Of Mist. The CD was recorded at LedBelly studios in Atlanta, Georgia with engineer Matt Washburn and was mixed by Jason Suecof (TRIVIUM, CHIMAIRA, DEVILDRIVER). The cover artwork was created by Eliran Kantor, who has previously worked with TESTAMENT, SIGH, ANACRUSIS and GWAR, among others.
Commented ATHEIST founder Kelly Shaefer: "We're very excited to announce that Tony Choy will be appearing on our upcoming dates; a headlining club gig at Jake's Tavern in Sarasota, Florida and the Orlando date of the 'Death To All Tour' 2012. It's been more than two years since Tony has played live with us. Just having him along will make this 'Death To All' show with the CYNIC guys, Gene Hoglan, Steve DiGiorgio, and everyone else a night to remember."
ATHEIST last year announced the addition of guitarist Jason Holloway to the group's ranks following the departure of Jonathan Thompson, who took a job in the medical field.
ATHEIST — Kelly Shaefer (vocals), Steve Flynn (drums), Tony Choy (bass), Christoper Martin (guitar), Jason Holloway (guitar) — is writing material for its new full-length album and follow-up to 2010's critically-acclaimed "Jupiter" CD.
"Jupiter" landed at position No. 88 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.
"Jupiter" was released on November 9, 2010 (one day earlier internationally) via Season Of Mist. The CD was recorded at LedBelly studios in Atlanta, Georgia with engineer Matt Washburn and was mixed by Jason Suecof (TRIVIUM, CHIMAIRA, DEVILDRIVER). The cover artwork was created by Eliran Kantor, who has previously worked with TESTAMENT, SIGH, ANACRUSIS and GWAR, among others.
arta Gabriel, frontwoman of the Polish heavy metal act CRYSTAL VIPER, has launched her own clothing company, Thunderball Clothing. Her first collection, named "Screaming ForVengeance", is out now, and includes a series of hand-made motorcycle jackets.
Thunderball Clothing was conceived in 2003 when Gabriel started to design and create stage clothes for herself and her CRYSTAL VIPER bandmates. Now, nine years later, after many requests, the clothes that she designs and creates are available for everyone. Every single item she produceis inspired by same classic song or album, and is absolutely original, one-of-a-kind, handmade, and available in just one copy and one size.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/thunderballclothing.
CRYSTAL VIPER's new album, "Crimen Excepta", was released in Europe on April 27 and in the U.S. on April 24 via AFM Records. The concept effort about holy inquisition, black magic and witches, where fiction is mixed with historical facts, was produced by Bart Gabriel (SACRED STEEL, JACK STARR'S BURNING STARR) and recorded with sound engineer Mariusz Pietka (MORTICIAN, LONEWOLF).
"Crimen Excepta" features two special guests: David Bower, vocalist of HELL appears in the title track, while VADER mainman Piotr "Peter" Wiwczarek can be heard in the cover version of the classic VADER song "Tyrani Piekiel", which is available as the bonus track on the first, limited edition of the album.
Thunderball Clothing was conceived in 2003 when Gabriel started to design and create stage clothes for herself and her CRYSTAL VIPER bandmates. Now, nine years later, after many requests, the clothes that she designs and creates are available for everyone. Every single item she produceis inspired by same classic song or album, and is absolutely original, one-of-a-kind, handmade, and available in just one copy and one size.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/thunderballclothing.
CRYSTAL VIPER's new album, "Crimen Excepta", was released in Europe on April 27 and in the U.S. on April 24 via AFM Records. The concept effort about holy inquisition, black magic and witches, where fiction is mixed with historical facts, was produced by Bart Gabriel (SACRED STEEL, JACK STARR'S BURNING STARR) and recorded with sound engineer Mariusz Pietka (MORTICIAN, LONEWOLF).
"Crimen Excepta" features two special guests: David Bower, vocalist of HELL appears in the title track, while VADER mainman Piotr "Peter" Wiwczarek can be heard in the cover version of the classic VADER song "Tyrani Piekiel", which is available as the bonus track on the first, limited edition of the album.
U.K.'s GALLOWS are finally ready to unleash the next phase of their punk rock attack on the world with the highly-anticipated release of their follow-up to 2009's "Grey Britain" album. Set for release in Europe on September 10 through the band's own label Venn Records (in partnership with [PIAS] Recordings) and in the U.S. on September 11 via Bridge Nine Records, the self-titled CD was recorded, produced, mixed and mastered by longtime friends Thomas Mitchener and Steve Sears at Broadfields Studio in Watford in May this year.
"We made this record self-titled as it musically defines the band known as GALLOWS as we exist today," explains the band. "This is the first of many releases to come from the house of Venn Records, our imprint, hijacked from [PIAS] those long-standing backers of independent rock 'n' roll."
The group adds, "This is our statement of intent, our laugh in the face of those who said GALLOWS were done when in reality we're just warming up. We couldn't feel more vindicated and proud."
"Gallows" track listing:
01. Victim Culture
02. Everybody Loves You (When You're Dead)
03. Last June
04. Outsider Art
05. Vapid Adolescent Blues
06. Austere
07. Depravers
08. Odessa
09. Nations
- Never Enough -
10. Cult Of Mary
11. Cross Of Lorraine
A free download of the track "Last June" is now available from www.gallows.co.uk.
The band will embark on a U.K. tour in October.
GALLOWS is a band that needs little introduction. Described, variously, as "the best British punk band since THE CLASH" and "the British music industry's biggest mistake," the Hertfordshire hardcore crew first emerged from the fecund U.K. underground punk scene in 2005. Inspired by REFUSED, AT THE DRIVE-IN, JR Ewing and Swing Kids, their ferocious, feral 2006 debut, "Orchestra Of Wolves", offered a harsh, unflinching dissection of suffocating suburban mores, shot through with images of small-town violence, desperation and disgust. Its follow-up, 2009's apocalyptic "Grey Britain", was darker, denser and even more brutally incisive, a lacerating, none-more-bleak state of the nation address, speaking of a once-proud nation on its knees, riven by prejudice, greed, ignorance and fear. December 2011's "Death Is Birth" EP heralded the arrival of a new GALLOWS: united, uncompromised, unfettered, unbroken. With old friend (and former ALEXISONFIRE guitarist) Wade MacNeil installed as the band's new frontman, the seven-inch EP was a defiant declaration of independence, 459 seconds of apoplectic punk rock fury landing like an adrenaline spike to the heart.
GALLOWS is:
Wade MacNeil (vocals)
Lee Barratt (drums)
Stephen Carter (guitar)
Laurent Barnard (guitar)
Stuart Gili-Ross (bass)
"We made this record self-titled as it musically defines the band known as GALLOWS as we exist today," explains the band. "This is the first of many releases to come from the house of Venn Records, our imprint, hijacked from [PIAS] those long-standing backers of independent rock 'n' roll."
The group adds, "This is our statement of intent, our laugh in the face of those who said GALLOWS were done when in reality we're just warming up. We couldn't feel more vindicated and proud."
"Gallows" track listing:
01. Victim Culture
02. Everybody Loves You (When You're Dead)
03. Last June
04. Outsider Art
05. Vapid Adolescent Blues
06. Austere
07. Depravers
08. Odessa
09. Nations
- Never Enough -
10. Cult Of Mary
11. Cross Of Lorraine
A free download of the track "Last June" is now available from www.gallows.co.uk.
The band will embark on a U.K. tour in October.
GALLOWS is a band that needs little introduction. Described, variously, as "the best British punk band since THE CLASH" and "the British music industry's biggest mistake," the Hertfordshire hardcore crew first emerged from the fecund U.K. underground punk scene in 2005. Inspired by REFUSED, AT THE DRIVE-IN, JR Ewing and Swing Kids, their ferocious, feral 2006 debut, "Orchestra Of Wolves", offered a harsh, unflinching dissection of suffocating suburban mores, shot through with images of small-town violence, desperation and disgust. Its follow-up, 2009's apocalyptic "Grey Britain", was darker, denser and even more brutally incisive, a lacerating, none-more-bleak state of the nation address, speaking of a once-proud nation on its knees, riven by prejudice, greed, ignorance and fear. December 2011's "Death Is Birth" EP heralded the arrival of a new GALLOWS: united, uncompromised, unfettered, unbroken. With old friend (and former ALEXISONFIRE guitarist) Wade MacNeil installed as the band's new frontman, the seven-inch EP was a defiant declaration of independence, 459 seconds of apoplectic punk rock fury landing like an adrenaline spike to the heart.
GALLOWS is:
Wade MacNeil (vocals)
Lee Barratt (drums)
Stephen Carter (guitar)
Laurent Barnard (guitar)
Stuart Gili-Ross (bass)
Frontiers Records has set an August 28 release date (four days earlier in Europe) for "Bleed And Scream", the fourth album from Swedish hard rockers ECLIPSE.
"Bleed And Scream" comes four years after ECLIPSE's acclaimed album "Are You Ready To Rock", which gained the band a solid reputation and a steady following, thanks also to their live appearances which culminated with dates as the opening act for DEEP PURPLE and a Firefest show in 2009.
ECLIPSE singer Erik Martensson has been busy producing and writing a number of successful songs and records for such artists as W.E.T., Toby Hitchcock, GIANT and Jimi Jamison. Erik and ECLIPSE guitarist Magnus Henriksson also wrote the track "Brothers In Arms" (originally an ECLIPSE cut), which was voted the No. 1 song of the year in MelodicRock.com awards for 2009.
In 2011 ECLIPSE regrouped to write what has now become "Bleed And Scream". The bar was set high and the initial goal was to top "Are You Ready To Rock". "We knew we had to do everything better on this album. If we couldn't have achieved that we never would have released it! But boy did it turn out well! When it was taking shape we realized this was to be a monster of an album," says Henriksson.
"With ECLIPSE we never think of what other people want or expect from us," adds Martensson. "We write for ourselves and make the music we love to listen to. If I'd think of a perfect album this is how it will sound! And once the album was written the recording process went pretty smooth as we knew exactly what goal we aimed for. I'd say it's our own pimped version of the classic hard rock we grew up listening to."
"Every song has qualities as a single," concludes Magnus. "Erik's vocals are way better than ever. The guitar sound is just awesome! The whole production is just in your face. It has something for everyone in it! We worked so hard at making this record that it drove us nearly nuts and made us wanna scream, but now it's your turn to bleed and scream."
"Bleed And Scream" track listing:
01. Wake Me Up
02. Bleed And Scream
03. Ain't Dead Yet
04. Battlegrounds
05. A Bitter Taste
06. Falling Down
07. S.O.S.
08. Take Back The Fear
09. The Unspoken Heroes
10. About To Break
11. After The End Of The World
The first single, "Bleed And Scream", will be exclusively distributed in Sweden through Sweden Rock Magazine in the issue that will hit the streets on July 17. This special release will include two exclusive bonus tracks (unavailable elsewhere): "Come Hell Or High Water" and "Into The Fire".
ECLIPSE is:
Erik Martenssom - Vocals, Guitar, Bass
Magnus Henriksson - Lead Guitar
Robban Bäck - Drums
Johan Berlin - Synthesisers
"Bleed And Scream" comes four years after ECLIPSE's acclaimed album "Are You Ready To Rock", which gained the band a solid reputation and a steady following, thanks also to their live appearances which culminated with dates as the opening act for DEEP PURPLE and a Firefest show in 2009.
ECLIPSE singer Erik Martensson has been busy producing and writing a number of successful songs and records for such artists as W.E.T., Toby Hitchcock, GIANT and Jimi Jamison. Erik and ECLIPSE guitarist Magnus Henriksson also wrote the track "Brothers In Arms" (originally an ECLIPSE cut), which was voted the No. 1 song of the year in MelodicRock.com awards for 2009.
In 2011 ECLIPSE regrouped to write what has now become "Bleed And Scream". The bar was set high and the initial goal was to top "Are You Ready To Rock". "We knew we had to do everything better on this album. If we couldn't have achieved that we never would have released it! But boy did it turn out well! When it was taking shape we realized this was to be a monster of an album," says Henriksson.
"With ECLIPSE we never think of what other people want or expect from us," adds Martensson. "We write for ourselves and make the music we love to listen to. If I'd think of a perfect album this is how it will sound! And once the album was written the recording process went pretty smooth as we knew exactly what goal we aimed for. I'd say it's our own pimped version of the classic hard rock we grew up listening to."
"Every song has qualities as a single," concludes Magnus. "Erik's vocals are way better than ever. The guitar sound is just awesome! The whole production is just in your face. It has something for everyone in it! We worked so hard at making this record that it drove us nearly nuts and made us wanna scream, but now it's your turn to bleed and scream."
"Bleed And Scream" track listing:
01. Wake Me Up
02. Bleed And Scream
03. Ain't Dead Yet
04. Battlegrounds
05. A Bitter Taste
06. Falling Down
07. S.O.S.
08. Take Back The Fear
09. The Unspoken Heroes
10. About To Break
11. After The End Of The World
The first single, "Bleed And Scream", will be exclusively distributed in Sweden through Sweden Rock Magazine in the issue that will hit the streets on July 17. This special release will include two exclusive bonus tracks (unavailable elsewhere): "Come Hell Or High Water" and "Into The Fire".
ECLIPSE is:
Erik Martenssom - Vocals, Guitar, Bass
Magnus Henriksson - Lead Guitar
Robban Bäck - Drums
Johan Berlin - Synthesisers
LEAGUE OF LIGHTS will release its new single, "Forever", on July 9. The song features former THRESHOLD vocalist Glynn Morgan and was produced by Richard West (THRESHOLD) at Eightspace Studio.
LEAGUE OF LIGHTS performed the new single in concert last month where they were joined on stage by Glynn Morgan for the songs "Forever", "Don't Leave Me Behind" and "Anime".
The self-titled debut album by LEAGUE OF LIGHTS was released in 2011 and featured guest performances by guitarist Ruud Jolie (WITHIN TEMPTATION), drummer Mark Zonder (ex-FATES WARNING, SLAVIOR) and bassist Jerry Meehan (Robbie Williams, Bryan Ferry).
"Forever" will be released worldwide via iTunes, Amazon and other digital outlets.
For more information, visit www.leagueoflights.com.
LEAGUE OF LIGHTS performed the new single in concert last month where they were joined on stage by Glynn Morgan for the songs "Forever", "Don't Leave Me Behind" and "Anime".
The self-titled debut album by LEAGUE OF LIGHTS was released in 2011 and featured guest performances by guitarist Ruud Jolie (WITHIN TEMPTATION), drummer Mark Zonder (ex-FATES WARNING, SLAVIOR) and bassist Jerry Meehan (Robbie Williams, Bryan Ferry).
"Forever" will be released worldwide via iTunes, Amazon and other digital outlets.
For more information, visit www.leagueoflights.com.
Norwegian death metallers CHTON will release their sophomore album, "The Devil Builds", on CD and vinyl in collaboration with the German label Godeater Records. The CD will be made available in the fall, with the vinyl to follow in early winter 2013. The digital release of the album will be handled by Morningstar Music.
"The Devil Builds" will feature 10 songs, including "Faustian Resolve", "Gods Of The Flesh" and "Babalon And The Beast Conjoined". The effort was recorded and produced at Morningstar Studio with Arnt Obsidian Grønbech (KEEP OF KALESSIN, SATYRICON) at the helm. The album was mixed by Stamos Koliousis (DJERV, MENCEA) at 210 Studio in Berlin, known for earlier work with NATTEFROST, GEHENNA and VREID, among others.
CHTON has previously shared stages with such bands as MORBID ANGEL, BEHEMOTH, MAYHEM, AMON AMARTH and ZYKLON, and plans to embark on a European tour to promote "The Devil Builds".
CHTON's digital split single "Screaming For Death" with CLEAVER is still available for streaming or download from most digital stores like Spotify, iTunes, WiMP, Amazon and many others.
Formed in 1999 in Trondheim, CHTON released its debut album, "Chtonian Lifecode", in 2004 via Retribute Records.
"The Devil Builds" will feature 10 songs, including "Faustian Resolve", "Gods Of The Flesh" and "Babalon And The Beast Conjoined". The effort was recorded and produced at Morningstar Studio with Arnt Obsidian Grønbech (KEEP OF KALESSIN, SATYRICON) at the helm. The album was mixed by Stamos Koliousis (DJERV, MENCEA) at 210 Studio in Berlin, known for earlier work with NATTEFROST, GEHENNA and VREID, among others.
CHTON has previously shared stages with such bands as MORBID ANGEL, BEHEMOTH, MAYHEM, AMON AMARTH and ZYKLON, and plans to embark on a European tour to promote "The Devil Builds".
CHTON's digital split single "Screaming For Death" with CLEAVER is still available for streaming or download from most digital stores like Spotify, iTunes, WiMP, Amazon and many others.
Formed in 1999 in Trondheim, CHTON released its debut album, "Chtonian Lifecode", in 2004 via Retribute Records.
The exploration of Mortiis' classic "Era1" recordings continues this summer with the re-release of his 1995 album, "Keiser Av En Dimensjon Ukjent", by Italian label Ordo MCM on July 23.
"Keiser Av En Dimensjon Ukjent" delves deeper into Mortiis' passion for creating dark, epic soundscapes, inspired by the unlikely combination of black metal, KISS, W.A.S.P., and Tolkien. "I always said those elements got thrown into a hotpot and out came Mortiis," he said.
Though the album's two tracks, "Reisene Til Grotter Og Ødemarker" and "Keiser Av En Dimensjon Ukjent", were recorded entirely using synths, the writing process behind the tracks was a much more organic experience.
"I wasn't using sequencers or any other means of recording parts and ideas as I went along, so everything was by ear and making notes," Mortiis said. "I'd come up with parts I liked, and keeping those in mind I'd come up with other parts that I thought would layer correctly on top. It was all about remembering things. I used a color-coding system when I wrote the music down. It wasn't sheet music or notations of any sort, just me writing down the name of the sound in blue, red, green, or whatever, and also the settings for each sound in brackets, like amount of reverb, release, decay, et cetera. I only really owned one synth, which was a cheap Roland JV30 — real entry-level stuff, but it had some good sounds on it."
"Keiser Av En Dimensjon Ukjent" will be distributed in the U.S. by Hells Headbangers and 20 Buck Spin. The release will be available in Europe via the Ordo MCM web site.
"Keiser Av En Dimensjon Ukjent" delves deeper into Mortiis' passion for creating dark, epic soundscapes, inspired by the unlikely combination of black metal, KISS, W.A.S.P., and Tolkien. "I always said those elements got thrown into a hotpot and out came Mortiis," he said.
Though the album's two tracks, "Reisene Til Grotter Og Ødemarker" and "Keiser Av En Dimensjon Ukjent", were recorded entirely using synths, the writing process behind the tracks was a much more organic experience.
"I wasn't using sequencers or any other means of recording parts and ideas as I went along, so everything was by ear and making notes," Mortiis said. "I'd come up with parts I liked, and keeping those in mind I'd come up with other parts that I thought would layer correctly on top. It was all about remembering things. I used a color-coding system when I wrote the music down. It wasn't sheet music or notations of any sort, just me writing down the name of the sound in blue, red, green, or whatever, and also the settings for each sound in brackets, like amount of reverb, release, decay, et cetera. I only really owned one synth, which was a cheap Roland JV30 — real entry-level stuff, but it had some good sounds on it."
"Keiser Av En Dimensjon Ukjent" will be distributed in the U.S. by Hells Headbangers and 20 Buck Spin. The release will be available in Europe via the Ordo MCM web site.
Dutch death metal veterans HOUWITSER have announced the addition of bassist Roderick Ras to the group's ranks. A talented young musician who also is a member of death metal band DIATRYMA, Roderick will make his live debut with HOUWITSER on July 14 at the Obscene Extreme festival.
HOUWITSER was recently rejoined by its original singer Mike van Mastrigt. In addition, the group recruited Marten van Kruijssen (DICTATED, NIBIRUS) as its new drummer.
Vocalist Stan Blonk left HOUWITSER at the end of last year for personal reasons.
HOUWITSER's fifth album, "Bestial Atrocity", was released in 2010 via Sevared Records.
For more information, visit www.houwitser.nl.
HOUWITSER was recently rejoined by its original singer Mike van Mastrigt. In addition, the group recruited Marten van Kruijssen (DICTATED, NIBIRUS) as its new drummer.
Vocalist Stan Blonk left HOUWITSER at the end of last year for personal reasons.
HOUWITSER's fifth album, "Bestial Atrocity", was released in 2010 via Sevared Records.
For more information, visit www.houwitser.nl.
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