Legendary IRON MAIDEN illustrator Derek Riggs will make an appearance at the fourth annual San Diego Metal Swap Meet. Derek will be signing copies of his art book "Run For Cover: The Art Of Derek Riggs" as well as posters and merchandise. Performing live at the event will be ACES HIGH, Las Vegas tribute to IRON MAIDEN. This event is a swap meet of merchandise and art of all things metal.
Details:
San Diego Metal Swap Meet
Saturday, August 25, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
at Queen Bee's
3925 Ohio Street
San Diego, CA 92104
Tickets are $3 in advance, $5 at the door. All ages, 21+ for beer garden.
For more information, visit www.sdmetalstore.org.
"Run For Cover: The Art Of Derek Riggs" is presented as a 180-page, full-color, large-format, top-quality art book, sporting approximately 200 graphics, some previously unpublished, some unfinished, many pristine originals from the IRON MAIDEN vaults, thanks to the full cooperation of MAIDEN manager Rod Smallwood and his charges. In addition, Riggs painted a stunning new Eddie to grace the cover.
Details:
San Diego Metal Swap Meet
Saturday, August 25, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
at Queen Bee's
3925 Ohio Street
San Diego, CA 92104
Tickets are $3 in advance, $5 at the door. All ages, 21+ for beer garden.
For more information, visit www.sdmetalstore.org.
"Run For Cover: The Art Of Derek Riggs" is presented as a 180-page, full-color, large-format, top-quality art book, sporting approximately 200 graphics, some previously unpublished, some unfinished, many pristine originals from the IRON MAIDEN vaults, thanks to the full cooperation of MAIDEN manager Rod Smallwood and his charges. In addition, Riggs painted a stunning new Eddie to grace the cover.
DRUM! magazine recently conducted an interview with METALLICA drummer Lars Ulrich. A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.
On his playing ability:
Lars: "I usually feel like I've regressed. [laughs] I'm like, 'Why can't I do that anymore?' You know, when I heard these songs [on the 'Beyond Magnetic' EP] a couple of months ago, I thought that it sounded really exciting. I thought there was a really good, lively vibe — it's a bunch of guys just playing together, and it sounded really full of energy and spunk and liveliness. And that was kind of the whole thing on the 'Death Magnetic' sessions was to try to keep all that energy as preserved as possible. The one thing I'm really proud of with the 'Death Magnetic' album is just how fucking lively it sounds. How it doesn't sound careful, it doesn't sound stale. It doesn't sound, kind of, too cerebral — it's just physical. It's just lively and full of spunk and full of people that are playing music with each other, in a room, you know? That was kind of what we were going for with 'Lulu' [the recent METALLICA/Lou Reed collaboration]."
On the new crop of speed-metal drummers:
Lars: "Those guys, I think they do something that's so … that's not the stuff that I do. Not just not what I do but also not what I'm interested in doing. Their stuff is so technical, and I totally respect it, I admire it, but I'm much more interested in kind of more traditional things, like songwriting and groove and attitude and vibe."
On whether he practices his playing:
Lars: "I can't say that I necessarily sit down to practice, like, 'I'm going to play and practice so I can get better.' What happens is that I just sit down and kind of play to just more stay in shape. You know, METALLICA was up to two or three months off last year, and I would sit down, I have an iPod next to my drums so I can play along to all kind of crazy stuff, and try to see if I can land in the same zip code of some of that stuff occasionally. But I can't say that I sit down to necessarily practice to sort of get better. For most of my stuff, it's about listening and about interpreting stuff that I'm listening to. So all the kind of sitting down and, you know, 'Now I'm going to do thirty-second-note paradiddles standing on my head — you know what I mean? I don't do that kind of stuff so much. For me it's more about the regimen of staying in shape, running every day, eating healthy, you know, being on top of that side of it."
On his playing ability:
Lars: "I usually feel like I've regressed. [laughs] I'm like, 'Why can't I do that anymore?' You know, when I heard these songs [on the 'Beyond Magnetic' EP] a couple of months ago, I thought that it sounded really exciting. I thought there was a really good, lively vibe — it's a bunch of guys just playing together, and it sounded really full of energy and spunk and liveliness. And that was kind of the whole thing on the 'Death Magnetic' sessions was to try to keep all that energy as preserved as possible. The one thing I'm really proud of with the 'Death Magnetic' album is just how fucking lively it sounds. How it doesn't sound careful, it doesn't sound stale. It doesn't sound, kind of, too cerebral — it's just physical. It's just lively and full of spunk and full of people that are playing music with each other, in a room, you know? That was kind of what we were going for with 'Lulu' [the recent METALLICA/Lou Reed collaboration]."
On the new crop of speed-metal drummers:
Lars: "Those guys, I think they do something that's so … that's not the stuff that I do. Not just not what I do but also not what I'm interested in doing. Their stuff is so technical, and I totally respect it, I admire it, but I'm much more interested in kind of more traditional things, like songwriting and groove and attitude and vibe."
On whether he practices his playing:
Lars: "I can't say that I necessarily sit down to practice, like, 'I'm going to play and practice so I can get better.' What happens is that I just sit down and kind of play to just more stay in shape. You know, METALLICA was up to two or three months off last year, and I would sit down, I have an iPod next to my drums so I can play along to all kind of crazy stuff, and try to see if I can land in the same zip code of some of that stuff occasionally. But I can't say that I sit down to necessarily practice to sort of get better. For most of my stuff, it's about listening and about interpreting stuff that I'm listening to. So all the kind of sitting down and, you know, 'Now I'm going to do thirty-second-note paradiddles standing on my head — you know what I mean? I don't do that kind of stuff so much. For me it's more about the regimen of staying in shape, running every day, eating healthy, you know, being on top of that side of it."
Slash and his band MYLES KENNEDY AND THE CONSPIRATORS — Myles Kennedy (vocals), Brent Fitz (drums), Todd Kerns (bass) and Frank Sidoris (guitar) — have announced a fall headlining tour starting September 4 in San Diego, California and wrapping October 3 in Los Angeles, California. The exclusive presale for Citi card members starts Tuesday, July 3. Citi card members will also have special access to tickets as well as VIP experiences at www.citiprivatepass.com. A limited amount of VIP packages — including a chance to meet Slash and get an autographed guitar — will also be available for fans during the pre sale which begins Tuesday, July 10. General public on-sales will begin Friday, July 13.
The dates are as follows:
With MONSTER TRUCK (except *):
Jul. 12 - Portland, OR - Roseland Theater
Jul. 13 - Seattle, WA - Paramount Theatre
Jul. 14 - Vancouver, BC - Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Jul. 16 - Edmonton, AB - Northern Alberta Jubilee
Jul. 17 - Calgary, AB - Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Jul. 19 - Medicine Hat, AB - Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre
Jul. 20 - Saskatoon, SK - TCU Place
Jul. 21 - Winnipeg, MB - Burton Cummings Theatre
Jul. 23 - Thunder Bay, ON - Thunder Bay Community Auditorium
Jul. 25 - Belleville, ON - Empire Square Live
Jul. 26 - London, ON - Harris Park
Jul. 27 - Montreal, QC - Olympia Theater
Jul. 29 - Quebec City, QC - Agora de Quebec
Jul. 30 - Moncton, New Brunswick - Centre-Casino Moncton
Jul. 31 - Halifax, NS - Cunard Events Centre
Aug. 02 - Boston, MA - House of Blues
Aug. 03 - Montclair, NJ - Wellmo nt Theatre
Aug. 04 - Huntington, NY - The Paramount
Aug. 07 - Dubuque, IA - Diamond Jo Casino-Mississippi Moon Bar
Aug. 08 - St. Louis, MO - The Pageant
Aug. 10 - Sturgis, SD - Buffalo Chip Campground
With FOXY SHAZAM (except *):
Sep. 04 - San Diego, CA - House of Blues
Sep. 05 - Phoenix, AZ - Celebrity Theatre
Sep. 07 - Austin, TX - Stubbs
Sep. 08 - Dallas, TX - House of Blues
Sep. 09 - Houston, TX - House of Blues
Sep. 11 - New Orleans, LA - House of Blues
Sep. 12 - Atlanta, GA - Tabernacle
Sep. 16 - Hampton Beach, NH - Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom *
Sep. 18 - New York, NY - Hammerstein Ballroom
Sep. 19 - Cleveland, OH - House of Blues
Sep. 21 - Cincinnati, OH - Bogart's
Sep. 22 - Detroit, MI - Fillmore
Sep. 23 - Toronto, ON - Sound Academy *
Sep. 25 - Indianapolis, IN - Egyptian Room
Sep. 28 - Chicago, IL - Riviera Theater
Sep. 29 - Springfield, MO - O'Reilly Family Events Center
Oct. 02 - Oakland, CA - Fox Theater
Oct. 03 - Los Angeles, CA - The Wiltern
* Slash only
Slash has scored his first-ever No. 1 hit at rock radio as a solo artist with "You're A Lie", the first single from his second solo effort, "Apocalyptic Love". The record came out on May 22 and debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard album chart a week later, selling 38,000 copies in its first week of release.
Unlike Slash's solo debut, which featured different vocalists on each track and a number of guest musicians, Slash has recorded all of the new CD with his touring band, MYLES KENNEDY AND THE CONSPIRATORS.
Slash co-wrote all the material with ALTER BRIDGE singer Myles Kennedy and told The Pulse Of Radio that they never struggled to find a groove together. "There was never any kind of like, 'OK, we need to sit down and focus on writing,'" he said. "Just whenever ideas happened, I would just lay them down, and if I thought it was good enough to send to him, then I'd send it to him. And he miraculously would come up with melodies for everything I came up with, and it just happened like that."
Slash and his band recently completed a month-long tour of Europe.
On July 10, Slash will be honored with his own star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame.
The dates are as follows:
With MONSTER TRUCK (except *):
Jul. 12 - Portland, OR - Roseland Theater
Jul. 13 - Seattle, WA - Paramount Theatre
Jul. 14 - Vancouver, BC - Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Jul. 16 - Edmonton, AB - Northern Alberta Jubilee
Jul. 17 - Calgary, AB - Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Jul. 19 - Medicine Hat, AB - Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre
Jul. 20 - Saskatoon, SK - TCU Place
Jul. 21 - Winnipeg, MB - Burton Cummings Theatre
Jul. 23 - Thunder Bay, ON - Thunder Bay Community Auditorium
Jul. 25 - Belleville, ON - Empire Square Live
Jul. 26 - London, ON - Harris Park
Jul. 27 - Montreal, QC - Olympia Theater
Jul. 29 - Quebec City, QC - Agora de Quebec
Jul. 30 - Moncton, New Brunswick - Centre-Casino Moncton
Jul. 31 - Halifax, NS - Cunard Events Centre
Aug. 02 - Boston, MA - House of Blues
Aug. 03 - Montclair, NJ - Wellmo nt Theatre
Aug. 04 - Huntington, NY - The Paramount
Aug. 07 - Dubuque, IA - Diamond Jo Casino-Mississippi Moon Bar
Aug. 08 - St. Louis, MO - The Pageant
Aug. 10 - Sturgis, SD - Buffalo Chip Campground
With FOXY SHAZAM (except *):
Sep. 04 - San Diego, CA - House of Blues
Sep. 05 - Phoenix, AZ - Celebrity Theatre
Sep. 07 - Austin, TX - Stubbs
Sep. 08 - Dallas, TX - House of Blues
Sep. 09 - Houston, TX - House of Blues
Sep. 11 - New Orleans, LA - House of Blues
Sep. 12 - Atlanta, GA - Tabernacle
Sep. 16 - Hampton Beach, NH - Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom *
Sep. 18 - New York, NY - Hammerstein Ballroom
Sep. 19 - Cleveland, OH - House of Blues
Sep. 21 - Cincinnati, OH - Bogart's
Sep. 22 - Detroit, MI - Fillmore
Sep. 23 - Toronto, ON - Sound Academy *
Sep. 25 - Indianapolis, IN - Egyptian Room
Sep. 28 - Chicago, IL - Riviera Theater
Sep. 29 - Springfield, MO - O'Reilly Family Events Center
Oct. 02 - Oakland, CA - Fox Theater
Oct. 03 - Los Angeles, CA - The Wiltern
* Slash only
Slash has scored his first-ever No. 1 hit at rock radio as a solo artist with "You're A Lie", the first single from his second solo effort, "Apocalyptic Love". The record came out on May 22 and debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard album chart a week later, selling 38,000 copies in its first week of release.
Unlike Slash's solo debut, which featured different vocalists on each track and a number of guest musicians, Slash has recorded all of the new CD with his touring band, MYLES KENNEDY AND THE CONSPIRATORS.
Slash co-wrote all the material with ALTER BRIDGE singer Myles Kennedy and told The Pulse Of Radio that they never struggled to find a groove together. "There was never any kind of like, 'OK, we need to sit down and focus on writing,'" he said. "Just whenever ideas happened, I would just lay them down, and if I thought it was good enough to send to him, then I'd send it to him. And he miraculously would come up with melodies for everything I came up with, and it just happened like that."
Slash and his band recently completed a month-long tour of Europe.
On July 10, Slash will be honored with his own star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame.
ANTHRAX guitarist Scott Ian was interviewed on the June 22-24 edition of Full Metal Jackie's nationally syndicated radio show. You can now listen to the chat using the audio player below.
To see a full list of stations carrying the program and when it airs, go to FullMetalJackieRadio.com.
To see a full list of stations carrying the program and when it airs, go to FullMetalJackieRadio.com.
Full Metal Jackie: ANTHRAX has been touring hard over the last year plus. How has your daily routine while touring changed over the years?
Scott: It really hasn't changed all that much. You just kind of get into a mindset, at least I do anyway, I have a different mindset once I'm out on a tour and it's just a way to get past the time as smoothly and constructively as possible, just try to get stuff done. Boredom is my worst enemy on tour, because then I just can't do anything, it just becomes so mind-numbing — I can't write, I can't do anything, I'll literally just sit and do nothing and that's kind of pointless. So I just try to find stuff to do, I try and write or just catch up on literally paying bills, just try and find something to do to help pass the hours of the day because, generally, from the time you wake up to show time it's pretty damn boring.
Full Metal Jackie: ANTHRAX is part of the [Rockstar Energy Drink] Mayhem Festival this summer and such a huge lineup — SLAYER, MOTÖRHEAD, ANTHRAX and even SLIPKNOT; all metal icons. Scott, what do younger fans tell you about why they embrace your bands?
Scott: They don't tell me anything. [laughs] It's not like I have people coming up to me and saying, "Here's what I think about your band;" that rarely, if ever, happens. I mean, the only thing I could surmise is that younger fans who obviously didn't get to see us in the '80s, 'cause they might not have even been born yet, or even the '90s, let's say — they may have gotten into metal because of a band like SLIPKNOT or even newer bands and then they look backwards; that's kind of what I did when I was a kid. When I was a kid, IRON MAIDEN was a new band and I got into IRON MAIDEN and that helped me look backwards to get into other stuff. So I could only assume it pretty much works the same way for a 13- or 14-year-old who, let's say, gets into metal because of METALLICA, which is an obvious because they're the biggest metal band in the world, so they find out about METALLICA and then they start looking elsewhere and it's not a long drive from METALLICA to ANTHRAX. I think it's pretty easy, if you're going to look a little deeper, it's kind of easy to find out about us and then check out our record and go, "Holy crap, I've got to go see these guys live."
Full Metal Jackie: Let's talk about the latest record from ANTHRAX, "Worship Music". Since you guys have been playing so much live, how have the new songs evolved after being played live over the better part of the year?
Scott: You know, not so much as much as it's happened in the past. I could say pretty much with every album until "Worship Music" — we would finish a record then go out and start touring and a year later the songs definitely have changed to a point where you kind of wished that's how you would've recorded them in the first place. The difference with this album is that we worked on this album for almost four years, so a lot of these songs have already went through that process. When we were on tour back in 2010, it was ANTHRAX, MEGADETH and SLAYER in the States on that Jägermeister tour. That's when we went back in with a lot of these songs and reworked a lot of it. By the time we actually started touring last September after the album came out, we had the luxury of already being able to do that so these songs kind of had of evolved to where we thought, "Okay, this is like what a year of touring would have done to these songs," and we were lucky that we got to do that. It's one of the reasons why the record is as good as it is because we really, really got to see if these songs would stand the test of time.
Full Metal Jackie: Talking about "Worship Music" right now, arguably the best ANTHRAX album to date, and the band has been killing live. How does that momentum fuel you to do whatever comes next?
Scott: I won't argue with you. [laughs] We're on a really great run; we just feel so great about the record we made and it came out last September and the world just really connected with it. That's all you could hope for as a band — you put your record out and people love the record you made. We felt like we did our job and we feel like the rest of the world agrees with us and the touring is just the gravy on top. It's like having our cake and eating it, too, because we've always been a touring band since day one. It's one of the main reasons why I think we've been able to last as long as we have and had the career that we've had, because we're just a great live band and to be able to tour on the back of this record, which is such a strong record, and just to have things be going so well for us again in 2011 and 2012, we're just having a lot of fun doing this and getting to play shows. The crowds are just so into it, that's the easy part; it's just fuckin' great.
Full Metal Jackie: What can we expect in terms of what's happening beyond Mayhem and after for the rest of the year?
Scott: It just continues. We get a break in August. After Mayhem, we're taking a month off and then we're going to tour the states and Canada again in September/October. We're doing a third leg of the ANTHRAX, TESTAMENT, DEATH ANGEL tour because we did two legs already and it's going so good and there's literally demands to come out and do more. November/December we go to Europe — MOTÖRHEAD, ANTHRAX and there's an opening band on that; that's for a month in Europe. Then we close out the year on the Rockstar Mayhem Cruise down in Florida and The Bahamas in December and that's us, LAMB OF GOD, MACHINE HEAD and a whole bunch of other bands which I look at as a really great way to cap the year off. We've never done anything like it and we've been with MACHINE HEAD and LAMB OF GOD quite a bit over in Europe playing festivals, so we're all really excited and we're actually trying to plan some crazy stuff for that because none of us have ever done anything like it. Our plan for 2013 is to start writing as well as continue playing shows here and there. We haven't been to Australia yet, so we intend on getting down there hopefully in February and then maybe playing one-offs and festivals here and there, but we're going to try and focus on the next record just so we cannot go eight years again between albums. [laughs] We would really like to have a new ANTHRAX record two years from the date of "Worship Music" coming out.
Scott: It really hasn't changed all that much. You just kind of get into a mindset, at least I do anyway, I have a different mindset once I'm out on a tour and it's just a way to get past the time as smoothly and constructively as possible, just try to get stuff done. Boredom is my worst enemy on tour, because then I just can't do anything, it just becomes so mind-numbing — I can't write, I can't do anything, I'll literally just sit and do nothing and that's kind of pointless. So I just try to find stuff to do, I try and write or just catch up on literally paying bills, just try and find something to do to help pass the hours of the day because, generally, from the time you wake up to show time it's pretty damn boring.
Full Metal Jackie: ANTHRAX is part of the [Rockstar Energy Drink] Mayhem Festival this summer and such a huge lineup — SLAYER, MOTÖRHEAD, ANTHRAX and even SLIPKNOT; all metal icons. Scott, what do younger fans tell you about why they embrace your bands?
Scott: They don't tell me anything. [laughs] It's not like I have people coming up to me and saying, "Here's what I think about your band;" that rarely, if ever, happens. I mean, the only thing I could surmise is that younger fans who obviously didn't get to see us in the '80s, 'cause they might not have even been born yet, or even the '90s, let's say — they may have gotten into metal because of a band like SLIPKNOT or even newer bands and then they look backwards; that's kind of what I did when I was a kid. When I was a kid, IRON MAIDEN was a new band and I got into IRON MAIDEN and that helped me look backwards to get into other stuff. So I could only assume it pretty much works the same way for a 13- or 14-year-old who, let's say, gets into metal because of METALLICA, which is an obvious because they're the biggest metal band in the world, so they find out about METALLICA and then they start looking elsewhere and it's not a long drive from METALLICA to ANTHRAX. I think it's pretty easy, if you're going to look a little deeper, it's kind of easy to find out about us and then check out our record and go, "Holy crap, I've got to go see these guys live."
Full Metal Jackie: Let's talk about the latest record from ANTHRAX, "Worship Music". Since you guys have been playing so much live, how have the new songs evolved after being played live over the better part of the year?
Scott: You know, not so much as much as it's happened in the past. I could say pretty much with every album until "Worship Music" — we would finish a record then go out and start touring and a year later the songs definitely have changed to a point where you kind of wished that's how you would've recorded them in the first place. The difference with this album is that we worked on this album for almost four years, so a lot of these songs have already went through that process. When we were on tour back in 2010, it was ANTHRAX, MEGADETH and SLAYER in the States on that Jägermeister tour. That's when we went back in with a lot of these songs and reworked a lot of it. By the time we actually started touring last September after the album came out, we had the luxury of already being able to do that so these songs kind of had of evolved to where we thought, "Okay, this is like what a year of touring would have done to these songs," and we were lucky that we got to do that. It's one of the reasons why the record is as good as it is because we really, really got to see if these songs would stand the test of time.
Full Metal Jackie: Talking about "Worship Music" right now, arguably the best ANTHRAX album to date, and the band has been killing live. How does that momentum fuel you to do whatever comes next?
Scott: I won't argue with you. [laughs] We're on a really great run; we just feel so great about the record we made and it came out last September and the world just really connected with it. That's all you could hope for as a band — you put your record out and people love the record you made. We felt like we did our job and we feel like the rest of the world agrees with us and the touring is just the gravy on top. It's like having our cake and eating it, too, because we've always been a touring band since day one. It's one of the main reasons why I think we've been able to last as long as we have and had the career that we've had, because we're just a great live band and to be able to tour on the back of this record, which is such a strong record, and just to have things be going so well for us again in 2011 and 2012, we're just having a lot of fun doing this and getting to play shows. The crowds are just so into it, that's the easy part; it's just fuckin' great.
Full Metal Jackie: What can we expect in terms of what's happening beyond Mayhem and after for the rest of the year?
Scott: It just continues. We get a break in August. After Mayhem, we're taking a month off and then we're going to tour the states and Canada again in September/October. We're doing a third leg of the ANTHRAX, TESTAMENT, DEATH ANGEL tour because we did two legs already and it's going so good and there's literally demands to come out and do more. November/December we go to Europe — MOTÖRHEAD, ANTHRAX and there's an opening band on that; that's for a month in Europe. Then we close out the year on the Rockstar Mayhem Cruise down in Florida and The Bahamas in December and that's us, LAMB OF GOD, MACHINE HEAD and a whole bunch of other bands which I look at as a really great way to cap the year off. We've never done anything like it and we've been with MACHINE HEAD and LAMB OF GOD quite a bit over in Europe playing festivals, so we're all really excited and we're actually trying to plan some crazy stuff for that because none of us have ever done anything like it. Our plan for 2013 is to start writing as well as continue playing shows here and there. We haven't been to Australia yet, so we intend on getting down there hopefully in February and then maybe playing one-offs and festivals here and there, but we're going to try and focus on the next record just so we cannot go eight years again between albums. [laughs] We would really like to have a new ANTHRAX record two years from the date of "Worship Music" coming out.
The fans demanded it, and the fans finally got it. After 20 years apart, the long-awaited TRIUMPH reunion of vocalist/guitarist Rik Emmett, bassist/keyboardist Mike Levine, and vocalist/drummer Gil Moore took place at Sweden Rock Festival, on June 7, 2008. And now, the band is putting the finishing touches on the DVD of that historic performance.
The "Live At Sweden Rock Festival" set will consist of a DVD and CD, with a tentative European release date of August 27 through Frontiers Records.
"It's great to finally be able show the world TRIUMPH's reunion show at the Sweden Rock Festival," says Mike Levine. "It certainly is one of the most memorable performances of our entire career! And they said it would never happen…"
"Live At Sweden Rock Festival" will be released on the TML label, distributed by UMG in Canada and ADA in the U.S. The set will be made available throughout Europe on Frontiers Records.
CD
01. When The Lights Go Down
02. Lay It On The Line
03. Allied Forces
04. Never Surrender
05. I Live For The Weekend
06. Blinding Light Show
07. Rocky Mountain Way
08. Magic Power
09. Rock And Roll Machine
10. Fight The Good Fight
DVD
01. When The Lights Go Down
02. Lay It On The Line
03. Allied Forces
04. Never Surrender
05. I Live For The Weekend
06. Blinding Light Show
07. Rocky Mountain Way
08. Magic Power
09. Rock And Roll Machine
10. Fight The Good Fight
As one of the godfathers of prog metal and leading lights of arena rock, TRIUMPH formed in 1975, and built a large and loyal fanbase by the late '70s on the strength of their non-stop touring schedule throughout Canada and the USA and the success of their classic albums, "Rock & Roll Machine" and "Just A Game".
But it was in the 1980s when TRIUMPH truly became a force to be reckoned with, as a string of gold/platinum-certified albums ("Progressions of Power", "Allied Forces", "Never Surrender" and "Thunder Seven") and classic hits ("Fight the Good Fight", "Magic Power", "Lay It On The Line") solidified the group as one of rock's top concert attractions.
TRIUMPH pushed the limits of arena rock to the max with is legendary live shows and virtuoso playing. Add to it some of the most recognizable and celebrated radio classics, a vault full of gold and platinum sales awards for their ten studio albums and there you have one of the most successful rock acts of the 1970s/1980s.
The "Live At Sweden Rock Festival" set will consist of a DVD and CD, with a tentative European release date of August 27 through Frontiers Records.
"It's great to finally be able show the world TRIUMPH's reunion show at the Sweden Rock Festival," says Mike Levine. "It certainly is one of the most memorable performances of our entire career! And they said it would never happen…"
"Live At Sweden Rock Festival" will be released on the TML label, distributed by UMG in Canada and ADA in the U.S. The set will be made available throughout Europe on Frontiers Records.
CD
01. When The Lights Go Down
02. Lay It On The Line
03. Allied Forces
04. Never Surrender
05. I Live For The Weekend
06. Blinding Light Show
07. Rocky Mountain Way
08. Magic Power
09. Rock And Roll Machine
10. Fight The Good Fight
DVD
01. When The Lights Go Down
02. Lay It On The Line
03. Allied Forces
04. Never Surrender
05. I Live For The Weekend
06. Blinding Light Show
07. Rocky Mountain Way
08. Magic Power
09. Rock And Roll Machine
10. Fight The Good Fight
As one of the godfathers of prog metal and leading lights of arena rock, TRIUMPH formed in 1975, and built a large and loyal fanbase by the late '70s on the strength of their non-stop touring schedule throughout Canada and the USA and the success of their classic albums, "Rock & Roll Machine" and "Just A Game".
But it was in the 1980s when TRIUMPH truly became a force to be reckoned with, as a string of gold/platinum-certified albums ("Progressions of Power", "Allied Forces", "Never Surrender" and "Thunder Seven") and classic hits ("Fight the Good Fight", "Magic Power", "Lay It On The Line") solidified the group as one of rock's top concert attractions.
TRIUMPH pushed the limits of arena rock to the max with is legendary live shows and virtuoso playing. Add to it some of the most recognizable and celebrated radio classics, a vault full of gold and platinum sales awards for their ten studio albums and there you have one of the most successful rock acts of the 1970s/1980s.
http://www.blabbermouth.net/soulflypremiere/triumphswedenrockdvd.jpg
Due to ongoing medical treatments for pancreatic cancer, with which Jon Lord was disagnosed last summer, the former DEEP PURPLE keyboardist will not be able to apppear in Hagen, Germany on July 6. He was set to perform his Durham Concerto and a selection of other pieces.
According to JonLord.org, Jon wishes to assure everyone that this is not a matter for concern, but it is a continuation of his regular treatment that has just taken longer than anticipated. He and the Hagen Philharmonic Orchestra hope to be able to reschedule the concert for later in the year. He apologizes to everyone for any inconveniences this may have caused, particularly the wonderful people of Hagen, their terrific orchestra and all those who may have bought tickets, and he looks forward to seeing them all soon.
For ticket refunds, please contact Hagen's Theaterkasse or your Eventim ticket agent.
Jon Lord is recognized for his Hammond organ blues-rock playing and unique sound and for his pioneering work in fusing rock and classical or baroque forms. He has most famously been a member of DEEP PURPLE, the band he co-founded in 1968.
Lord last year received the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Music from the University of Leicester.
According to JonLord.org, Jon wishes to assure everyone that this is not a matter for concern, but it is a continuation of his regular treatment that has just taken longer than anticipated. He and the Hagen Philharmonic Orchestra hope to be able to reschedule the concert for later in the year. He apologizes to everyone for any inconveniences this may have caused, particularly the wonderful people of Hagen, their terrific orchestra and all those who may have bought tickets, and he looks forward to seeing them all soon.
For ticket refunds, please contact Hagen's Theaterkasse or your Eventim ticket agent.
Jon Lord is recognized for his Hammond organ blues-rock playing and unique sound and for his pioneering work in fusing rock and classical or baroque forms. He has most famously been a member of DEEP PURPLE, the band he co-founded in 1968.
Lord last year received the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Music from the University of Leicester.
A new book about legendary guitarist Randy Rhoads, simply entitled "Randy Rhoads", is available from Velocity Publishing Group.
Before his tragic death at the age of 25, Randy Rhoads was on a fast track to being hailed by critics and public alike as the greatest rock guitar player of all time. Over a short two-year period, Randy recorded two seminal multi-platinum albums with Ozzy Osbourne, which are heralded today as among the most noteworthy recordings in hard rock music history. Through his jaw-dropping six-string work on songs such as "Crazy Train", "Mr. Crowley" and "Flying High Again", Randy Rhoads achieved legendary status as a guitar icon and his artistic legacy continues to grow with each passing year.
A brilliant guitar virtuoso, Randy's masterful ability of bridging rock and classical techniques helped him forge a groundbreaking style of guitar playing. In 1981, Guitar Player magazine honored Randy by selecting him as best new talent of the year. Humble and self-effacing, Randy refused to rest on his laurels. Instead, being bestowed with this prestigious award motivated him to strive for greater creative heights. Tragically, Randy's life ended much too soon when on the morning of March 19, 1982 he was killed in a small private plane that careened into the garage of a plantation home in Leesburg, Florida.
Randy Rhoads' ascendancy to super-stardom was inevitable. Tirelessly honing his craft, he was a devoted student of his instrument, endlessly practicing and perfecting his skills. His days were spent as a guitar teacher and by night he solidified his rising reputation as the "next big thing" on the Hollywood club scene. His big break arrived when he assumed the lead guitar slot in Ozzy Osbourne's solo band. Soon the entire music world would be dazzled by his spectacular flights of fiery fretboard sizzle, swiftly recognizing the merits of this burgeoning guitar genius.
With his dynamic six-string wizardry, Randy Rhoads invented an exciting and technically advanced style of explosive hard rock guitar playing that dominated the '80s music scene. Decades later, his massive influence continues to shape, educate and inspire first, second and third generation players and music fans that marvel at his extraordinary musicality and stunning instrumental prowess. Today, Randy's legendary status as a guitar hero is assured, joining the pantheon of rock's Mt. Olympus where he stands proudly alongside such revered guitar heroes as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, and Ritchie Blackmore.
No one-trick pony, Randy was well versed in a multitude of musical genres seamlessly cross-navigating rock, blues and classical. In fact, his immense love of classical music continued to be a driving force in his life. Until his untimely death, he continued to take classical guitar lessons in an effort to break new ground as a player.
Today, mythologized and immortalized, Randy Rhoads has become a veritable pop culture institution. Paying homage to his pioneering ability, Marshall Amplifiers created a custom amplifier that bears Randy's name and signature sound. Action figures and sculptures with Randy's likeness have become highly sought after collector's items, while Jackson Guitars have sold millions of Randy Rhoads model guitars, pleasing the late guitarist's loyal legion of dedicated followers. His image graces innumerable music magazine covers annually.
Finally, after years of anticipation, comes the release of "Randy Rhoads", a biography written by Steven Rosen and Andrew Klein, which vividly documents Randy's life and career. Teeming with hundreds of rare photographs and memorabilia, the book chronicles an oral history of Randy's remarkable life through those who knew him best. Packed with countless emotional and poignant stories about the guitar icon, the book weaves a powerful tapestry of colorful memories about his life, which help provide deeper insight into Randy, the man, the myth, the legend. His life is a lasting testament to his supernatural talent and quiet humility.
(Cover image and jacket cover text provided by Andrew Klein)
Before his tragic death at the age of 25, Randy Rhoads was on a fast track to being hailed by critics and public alike as the greatest rock guitar player of all time. Over a short two-year period, Randy recorded two seminal multi-platinum albums with Ozzy Osbourne, which are heralded today as among the most noteworthy recordings in hard rock music history. Through his jaw-dropping six-string work on songs such as "Crazy Train", "Mr. Crowley" and "Flying High Again", Randy Rhoads achieved legendary status as a guitar icon and his artistic legacy continues to grow with each passing year.
A brilliant guitar virtuoso, Randy's masterful ability of bridging rock and classical techniques helped him forge a groundbreaking style of guitar playing. In 1981, Guitar Player magazine honored Randy by selecting him as best new talent of the year. Humble and self-effacing, Randy refused to rest on his laurels. Instead, being bestowed with this prestigious award motivated him to strive for greater creative heights. Tragically, Randy's life ended much too soon when on the morning of March 19, 1982 he was killed in a small private plane that careened into the garage of a plantation home in Leesburg, Florida.
Randy Rhoads' ascendancy to super-stardom was inevitable. Tirelessly honing his craft, he was a devoted student of his instrument, endlessly practicing and perfecting his skills. His days were spent as a guitar teacher and by night he solidified his rising reputation as the "next big thing" on the Hollywood club scene. His big break arrived when he assumed the lead guitar slot in Ozzy Osbourne's solo band. Soon the entire music world would be dazzled by his spectacular flights of fiery fretboard sizzle, swiftly recognizing the merits of this burgeoning guitar genius.
With his dynamic six-string wizardry, Randy Rhoads invented an exciting and technically advanced style of explosive hard rock guitar playing that dominated the '80s music scene. Decades later, his massive influence continues to shape, educate and inspire first, second and third generation players and music fans that marvel at his extraordinary musicality and stunning instrumental prowess. Today, Randy's legendary status as a guitar hero is assured, joining the pantheon of rock's Mt. Olympus where he stands proudly alongside such revered guitar heroes as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, and Ritchie Blackmore.
No one-trick pony, Randy was well versed in a multitude of musical genres seamlessly cross-navigating rock, blues and classical. In fact, his immense love of classical music continued to be a driving force in his life. Until his untimely death, he continued to take classical guitar lessons in an effort to break new ground as a player.
Today, mythologized and immortalized, Randy Rhoads has become a veritable pop culture institution. Paying homage to his pioneering ability, Marshall Amplifiers created a custom amplifier that bears Randy's name and signature sound. Action figures and sculptures with Randy's likeness have become highly sought after collector's items, while Jackson Guitars have sold millions of Randy Rhoads model guitars, pleasing the late guitarist's loyal legion of dedicated followers. His image graces innumerable music magazine covers annually.
Finally, after years of anticipation, comes the release of "Randy Rhoads", a biography written by Steven Rosen and Andrew Klein, which vividly documents Randy's life and career. Teeming with hundreds of rare photographs and memorabilia, the book chronicles an oral history of Randy's remarkable life through those who knew him best. Packed with countless emotional and poignant stories about the guitar icon, the book weaves a powerful tapestry of colorful memories about his life, which help provide deeper insight into Randy, the man, the myth, the legend. His life is a lasting testament to his supernatural talent and quiet humility.
(Cover image and jacket cover text provided by Andrew Klein)
http://www.blabbermouth.net/soulflypremiere/rhoadsklein.jpg
Mike Portnoy (DREAM THEATER, AVENGED SEVENFOLD, ADRENALINE MOB, FLYING COLORS) proves for a second straight year that his prog drumming makes him perhaps the most popular drummer in the world. Portnoy won "Best Drummer" and "Best Progressive Drummer", with more than 9,000 drummers voting in DRUM! magazine's 17th annual readers poll.
Unlike last year when Portnoy's victory was very decisive, the race was very close with Portnoy barely beating out runners-up, Neil Peart (RUSH), Mike Mangini (DREAM THEATER), Chris Adler (LAMB OF GOD) and Chad Smith (RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS).
In part, Portnoy's victory may be a result of how busy he was this year. As noted in the July 2012 issue of DRUM!, Portnoy founded two bands (FLYING COLORS and ADRENALINE MOB), and was on the bus with numerous acts. "Portnoy has demonstrated his popularity and dedication to the drumming arts," said Phil Hood, publisher and co-founder of Enter Music Publishing. "With his second victory, he has proven that his drumming is recognized by drummers, regardless of age or demographic."
The same factors regarding Portnoy reflect his taking "Best Progressive Drummer." He beat out last year's winner, Gavin Harrison (PORCUPINE TREE), and other runner-ups, Mike Mangini, Darren King and Virgil Donati.
Portnoy, who co-founded DREAM THEATER more than 20 years ago, abruptly quit the band in September 2010 while on tour with AVENGED SEVENFOLD. He has since been replaced by Mike Mangini (ANNIHILATOR, EXTREME, JAMES LABRIE, STEVE VAI).
Portnoy played on AVENGED SEVENFOLD's latest album, "Nightmare", following the death of that band's drummer, Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan, and toured with them for the entire second half of 2010.
Unlike last year when Portnoy's victory was very decisive, the race was very close with Portnoy barely beating out runners-up, Neil Peart (RUSH), Mike Mangini (DREAM THEATER), Chris Adler (LAMB OF GOD) and Chad Smith (RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS).
In part, Portnoy's victory may be a result of how busy he was this year. As noted in the July 2012 issue of DRUM!, Portnoy founded two bands (FLYING COLORS and ADRENALINE MOB), and was on the bus with numerous acts. "Portnoy has demonstrated his popularity and dedication to the drumming arts," said Phil Hood, publisher and co-founder of Enter Music Publishing. "With his second victory, he has proven that his drumming is recognized by drummers, regardless of age or demographic."
The same factors regarding Portnoy reflect his taking "Best Progressive Drummer." He beat out last year's winner, Gavin Harrison (PORCUPINE TREE), and other runner-ups, Mike Mangini, Darren King and Virgil Donati.
Portnoy, who co-founded DREAM THEATER more than 20 years ago, abruptly quit the band in September 2010 while on tour with AVENGED SEVENFOLD. He has since been replaced by Mike Mangini (ANNIHILATOR, EXTREME, JAMES LABRIE, STEVE VAI).
Portnoy played on AVENGED SEVENFOLD's latest album, "Nightmare", following the death of that band's drummer, Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan, and toured with them for the entire second half of 2010.
"Oceania", the first new album in five years from THE SMASHING PUMPKINS, sold 53,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 4 on The Billboard 200 chart.
Although the material on "Oceania" is part of the PUMPKINS' in-progress 44-song cycle, "Teargarden By Kaleidyscope", frontman Billy Corgan told The Pulse Of Radio why he decided to carve "Oceania" out as its own album. "We decided to release 'Oceania' as a standalone project because we'd been doing a song at a time as part of the 'Teargarden By Kaleidyscope' project, and we found that because of the voracious nature of the Internet, our songs were being swallowed up so fast that people didn't even know that they'd come out," he said. "So when we looked at it, we said, what can we do that will garner at least some length of attention? An album, of course, would do that, at least for that one hour hopefully."
"Oceania" follows up 2007's comeback album "Zeitgeist" and is the first PUMPKINS record to feature the current lineup of Mike Byrne on drums, Nicole Fiorentino on bass and Jeff Schroeder on guitar.
"Oceania" track listing:
01. Quasar
02. Panopticon
03. The Celestials
04. Violet Rays
05. My Love Is Winter
06. One Diamond, One Heart
07. Pinwheels
08. Oceania
09. Pale Horse
10. The Chimera
11. Glissandra
12. Inkless
13. Wildflower
Corgan recently blasted the members of the original PUMPKINS in an interview with NME, calling ex-drummer Jimmy Chamberlin "a fucking liar" and guitarist James Iha "one of the worst human beings I've ever met in my life."
The PUMPKINS have yet to announce tour plans behind the new disc, although they are expected to tour the U.S. this fall.
Although the material on "Oceania" is part of the PUMPKINS' in-progress 44-song cycle, "Teargarden By Kaleidyscope", frontman Billy Corgan told The Pulse Of Radio why he decided to carve "Oceania" out as its own album. "We decided to release 'Oceania' as a standalone project because we'd been doing a song at a time as part of the 'Teargarden By Kaleidyscope' project, and we found that because of the voracious nature of the Internet, our songs were being swallowed up so fast that people didn't even know that they'd come out," he said. "So when we looked at it, we said, what can we do that will garner at least some length of attention? An album, of course, would do that, at least for that one hour hopefully."
"Oceania" follows up 2007's comeback album "Zeitgeist" and is the first PUMPKINS record to feature the current lineup of Mike Byrne on drums, Nicole Fiorentino on bass and Jeff Schroeder on guitar.
"Oceania" track listing:
01. Quasar
02. Panopticon
03. The Celestials
04. Violet Rays
05. My Love Is Winter
06. One Diamond, One Heart
07. Pinwheels
08. Oceania
09. Pale Horse
10. The Chimera
11. Glissandra
12. Inkless
13. Wildflower
Corgan recently blasted the members of the original PUMPKINS in an interview with NME, calling ex-drummer Jimmy Chamberlin "a fucking liar" and guitarist James Iha "one of the worst human beings I've ever met in my life."
The PUMPKINS have yet to announce tour plans behind the new disc, although they are expected to tour the U.S. this fall.
GODSMACK announced today that due to continued vocal issues with singer Sully Erna, the band is forced to cancel the remaining dates on its currently scheduled European tour. Erna was examined by throat specialists in the U.S. yesterday and the advice of his doctors has been to not sing for the next several weeks to allow time for his vocal cords to heal. The current trek marked the first time GODSMACK had toured Europe in nearly nine years, and the band was only able to perform two of their fourteen scheduled dates in Europe.
In a statement, Sully said, "Sorry, Europe. Seems like we can't catch a break there lately. London, you were one of the best crowds we've played to in a very long time.... Belgium, you were awesome as well. As for the rest of you in Europe that we weren't able to reach, I promise you we'll be back!! For now it's lots of rest and fluids for me until my vocal specialist clears me to sing again. My deepest apologies Europe! You'll see us again. Thanks for your support and understanding."
The Rockstar Energy Uproar Tour kicks off on August 17 in Bonner Springs, Kansas and features GODSMACK, STAIND, SHINEDOWN, PAPA ROACH and a number of other acts. GODSMACK bassist Robbie Merrill said about the tour, "We're all friends with them so to me it was going to be fun and it was going to be a nice easy summer . . . (each show) should be a good day."
GODSMACK issued a concert album last month called "Live And Inspired", which also featured newly recorded studio covers of some of the band's favorite classic rock songs, including JOE WALSH's "Rocky Mountain Way", METALLICA's "Nothing Else Matters", THE BEATLES' "Come Together" and PINK FLOYD's "Time".
Later this year, the group will also perform as part of ShipRocked, a five-day cruise that will feature a lineup of rock acts including FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, SEVENDUST and more.
In a statement, Sully said, "Sorry, Europe. Seems like we can't catch a break there lately. London, you were one of the best crowds we've played to in a very long time.... Belgium, you were awesome as well. As for the rest of you in Europe that we weren't able to reach, I promise you we'll be back!! For now it's lots of rest and fluids for me until my vocal specialist clears me to sing again. My deepest apologies Europe! You'll see us again. Thanks for your support and understanding."
The Rockstar Energy Uproar Tour kicks off on August 17 in Bonner Springs, Kansas and features GODSMACK, STAIND, SHINEDOWN, PAPA ROACH and a number of other acts. GODSMACK bassist Robbie Merrill said about the tour, "We're all friends with them so to me it was going to be fun and it was going to be a nice easy summer . . . (each show) should be a good day."
GODSMACK issued a concert album last month called "Live And Inspired", which also featured newly recorded studio covers of some of the band's favorite classic rock songs, including JOE WALSH's "Rocky Mountain Way", METALLICA's "Nothing Else Matters", THE BEATLES' "Come Together" and PINK FLOYD's "Time".
Later this year, the group will also perform as part of ShipRocked, a five-day cruise that will feature a lineup of rock acts including FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, SEVENDUST and more.
Herman Li and Sam Totman of of British epic power metallers DRAGONFORCE recently gave Premier Guitar's Rebecca Dirks a rundown on the gear that they're using on their "The Power Within" tour. Check out the footage below.
DRAGONFORCE's new album, "The Power Within", sold 5,800 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 74 on The Billboard 200 chart.
The band's previous CD, "Ultra Beatdown", opened with 24,000 units back in September 2008 to land at No. 18.
DRAGONFORCE has just returned to North America for a spring tour. This outing marks the band's first trek with brand Hudson, who also makes his recorded debut on "The Power Within".
The tour kicked off April 21 at the New England Metal & Hardcore Festival and will make several stops on the East Coast before winding through Canada and into the Midwest before wrapping out west on May 11 in Anaheim, California.
"The Power Within" was released in the U.K. on April 16 via the band's own Electric Generation Recordings, distributed by Essential Music.
DRAGONFORCE's new album, "The Power Within", sold 5,800 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 74 on The Billboard 200 chart.
The band's previous CD, "Ultra Beatdown", opened with 24,000 units back in September 2008 to land at No. 18.
DRAGONFORCE has just returned to North America for a spring tour. This outing marks the band's first trek with brand Hudson, who also makes his recorded debut on "The Power Within".
The tour kicked off April 21 at the New England Metal & Hardcore Festival and will make several stops on the East Coast before winding through Canada and into the Midwest before wrapping out west on May 11 in Anaheim, California.
"The Power Within" was released in the U.K. on April 16 via the band's own Electric Generation Recordings, distributed by Essential Music.
Are you ready for Round 3 of the original? Imagine starting the year in style: In January 2013, 40 heavy metal bands and 2,000 fans from all over the world will go once again to the Caribbean to take over the luxury cruise ship Majesty Of The Seas for a five-day-and-four-night trip of a lifetime.
Make no mistake, this is not one of the cruises where you share the ship with regular cruise guests... and don't get intimidated by copycats! This is 70000 Tons Of Metal, the world's biggest floating heavy metal festival, featuring the biggest open-air stage to sail the open seas. Enjoy unrestricted festival access to all live shows on board, open-mic nights, clinics, workshops, the infamous metal karaoke, bars that never close, two full days at sea, a fun-and-sun-filled day on a beautiful Caribbean island and an opportunity to mingle side-by-side with the artists in this incredibly fan-friendly scenario that has no comparison. It's like everyone has a backstage pass!
Headbangers from around the world, please welcome the first 10 out of 40 bands on board:
ANACRUSIS
DIE APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER
DORO
HELSTAR
IMMOLATION
IN FLAMES
LACUNA COIL
NILE
SABATON
SUBWAY TO SALLY
70000 Tons Of Metal will sail Monday, January 28, 2013 aboard the Royal Caribbean Majesty Of The Seas from Miami, Florida and will not return you to the real world for four days until Friday, February 1, 2013.
This leaves only one question: What will be the destination? Well, you know they like to keep you guessing, so they're not telling until... SOON!
Ticket prices start at $666 (U.S.) plus $299 taxes and fees per person and include all on-board entertainment, non-alcoholic and non-carbonated beverages, all meals at the dining rooms, most on-board restaurants and even 24-room service!
Check out www.70000tons.com for more information.
Make no mistake, this is not one of the cruises where you share the ship with regular cruise guests... and don't get intimidated by copycats! This is 70000 Tons Of Metal, the world's biggest floating heavy metal festival, featuring the biggest open-air stage to sail the open seas. Enjoy unrestricted festival access to all live shows on board, open-mic nights, clinics, workshops, the infamous metal karaoke, bars that never close, two full days at sea, a fun-and-sun-filled day on a beautiful Caribbean island and an opportunity to mingle side-by-side with the artists in this incredibly fan-friendly scenario that has no comparison. It's like everyone has a backstage pass!
Headbangers from around the world, please welcome the first 10 out of 40 bands on board:
ANACRUSIS
DIE APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER
DORO
HELSTAR
IMMOLATION
IN FLAMES
LACUNA COIL
NILE
SABATON
SUBWAY TO SALLY
70000 Tons Of Metal will sail Monday, January 28, 2013 aboard the Royal Caribbean Majesty Of The Seas from Miami, Florida and will not return you to the real world for four days until Friday, February 1, 2013.
This leaves only one question: What will be the destination? Well, you know they like to keep you guessing, so they're not telling until... SOON!
Ticket prices start at $666 (U.S.) plus $299 taxes and fees per person and include all on-board entertainment, non-alcoholic and non-carbonated beverages, all meals at the dining rooms, most on-board restaurants and even 24-room service!
Check out www.70000tons.com for more information.
Andrew Haug, the former host of Triple J Australia's "The Racket" radio show (originally "Full Metal Racket"; 2001-2011), has just unveiled plans to launch Australia's first-ever dedicated 24/7 rock and metal online radio station via AndrewHaug.com.
With several months in the planning and innvovation to create the ultimate listening experience to connect rock and metal fans worldwide.
In a statement, Haug said: "Well, folks, I did mention I would continue spreading the message of our beloved heavy music! I am mega-excited to be launching Australia's first-ever 24/7 dedicated rock and metal online radio station! Cool, huh? This new exciting venture will feature:
* The freshest local and international rock/metal streaming 24/7!
* High-quality audio and easy access
* Exclusive competitions!
* Dedicated specials/programs.
* Requests and tributes.
"You name it, we'll have it covered. Or simply suggest it and we'll try it out."
Haug's radio background goes back to 1993, when he started out with a local demo segment on Melbourne's "3RRRFM" metal show.
In 2001 he was offered the national spot to host Triple J's weekly metal program. Over his decade-long run he conducted a staggering 612 interviews with the likes of James Hetfield (METALLICA), Ozzy Osbourne, Maynard James Keenan (TOOL), Ronnie James Dio, Rob Halford (JUDAS PRIEST), and even interviewed Steve Harris of IRON MAIDEN onboard the band's very own plane Ed Force One.
In 2011 Haug had the daring task of announcing to a rowdy crowd of SLAYER fans at the Soundwave Festival in Sydney that the band would not be playing — minutes before they were due onstage! And then there's his daring and hilarious face-to-face impersonation of METALLICA's Lars Ulrich.
For more information, visit AndrewHaug.com.
With several months in the planning and innvovation to create the ultimate listening experience to connect rock and metal fans worldwide.
In a statement, Haug said: "Well, folks, I did mention I would continue spreading the message of our beloved heavy music! I am mega-excited to be launching Australia's first-ever 24/7 dedicated rock and metal online radio station! Cool, huh? This new exciting venture will feature:
* The freshest local and international rock/metal streaming 24/7!
* High-quality audio and easy access
* Exclusive competitions!
* Dedicated specials/programs.
* Requests and tributes.
"You name it, we'll have it covered. Or simply suggest it and we'll try it out."
Haug's radio background goes back to 1993, when he started out with a local demo segment on Melbourne's "3RRRFM" metal show.
In 2001 he was offered the national spot to host Triple J's weekly metal program. Over his decade-long run he conducted a staggering 612 interviews with the likes of James Hetfield (METALLICA), Ozzy Osbourne, Maynard James Keenan (TOOL), Ronnie James Dio, Rob Halford (JUDAS PRIEST), and even interviewed Steve Harris of IRON MAIDEN onboard the band's very own plane Ed Force One.
In 2011 Haug had the daring task of announcing to a rowdy crowd of SLAYER fans at the Soundwave Festival in Sydney that the band would not be playing — minutes before they were due onstage! And then there's his daring and hilarious face-to-face impersonation of METALLICA's Lars Ulrich.
For more information, visit AndrewHaug.com.
Norwegian singer Liv Kristine (LEAVES' EYES, ex-THEATRE OF TRAGEDY) will release her fourth solo album, entitled "Libertine", via the Napalm Records subsidiary Black Rose Productions on the following dates:
North America: September 4
Spain, Finland, Sweden, Greece: September 5
Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Benelux: September 7
Rest Of The World: September 10
The CD was recorded at Mastersound Studio in Steinheim, Germany — the facility owned by her husband, Alexander Krull (ATROCITY, LEAVES' EYES) — and marks Liv's collaboration with Dutch musician J.B. van der Wal (ABORTED, DR. DOOM), who recently joined LEAVES' EYES and ATROCITY as the two bands' new bassist.
"Libertine" track listing:
01. Interlude (intro)
02. Solve Me
03. Silence
04. Vanilla Skin Delight (duet with Tobias Regner)
05. Panic
06. Paris Paris
07. Wait For Rain
08. Love Crime
09. Libertine
10. Meet Me In The Red Sky
11. The Man With A Child In His Eyes (KATE BUSH cover)
The "Libertine" cover artwork can be seen below.
Commented Liv: "'Libertine' is truly a milestone in my career; it sums up my most important artistic experiences in my creative journey through life. The more rock and metal-based songs like 'Vanilla Skin Delight' (including superb male vocals from Tobias Regner, the third-season winner of 'Deutschland Sucht Den Superstar', the German reality show in the style of 'American Idol'), 'Paris Paris', 'Solve Me' and title track, 'Libertine', certainly expose some of those magic moments which fans of THEATRE OF TRAGEDY enjoyed and treasured on 'Aegis' and 'Musique'. The ballads 'Silence', 'Love Crime' and 'Meet Me In The Red Sky' will go straight into you hearts, each of them being absolute individual in their emotional expressions and musical compositions. Alex gave each track a perfect sound in the mix by emphasizing on each song's characteristic accent and atmosphere."
She added, "I can't wait to let you hear this album; it is exceptional to me both personally and in my artistic career, and I can't wait to play these songs for you live! The cover and booklet artwork is completed as well. It took a while for me, personally, to find the artistic expression I wished to expose in my pictures, however, Heile and Alex guided me into the right direction, for which I am so happy and grateful."
Liv debuted the title track of her new album, "Libertine" (see video below), at a special concert on December 2, 2011 at Alte Seminarturnhalle in Nagold, Germany under the banner "One Night With Liv Kristine". Liv performed acoustic versions of her original songs as well as a few covers, including tracks from LEAVES' EYES and THEATRE OF TRAGEDY.
Liv Kristine's third solo album, "Skintight", came out in North America in September 2010 via Napalm Records. The follow-up to 2006's "Enter My Religion" was recorded at Mastersound Studio and the artwork was created by Stefan Heilemann.
North America: September 4
Spain, Finland, Sweden, Greece: September 5
Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Benelux: September 7
Rest Of The World: September 10
The CD was recorded at Mastersound Studio in Steinheim, Germany — the facility owned by her husband, Alexander Krull (ATROCITY, LEAVES' EYES) — and marks Liv's collaboration with Dutch musician J.B. van der Wal (ABORTED, DR. DOOM), who recently joined LEAVES' EYES and ATROCITY as the two bands' new bassist.
"Libertine" track listing:
01. Interlude (intro)
02. Solve Me
03. Silence
04. Vanilla Skin Delight (duet with Tobias Regner)
05. Panic
06. Paris Paris
07. Wait For Rain
08. Love Crime
09. Libertine
10. Meet Me In The Red Sky
11. The Man With A Child In His Eyes (KATE BUSH cover)
The "Libertine" cover artwork can be seen below.
Commented Liv: "'Libertine' is truly a milestone in my career; it sums up my most important artistic experiences in my creative journey through life. The more rock and metal-based songs like 'Vanilla Skin Delight' (including superb male vocals from Tobias Regner, the third-season winner of 'Deutschland Sucht Den Superstar', the German reality show in the style of 'American Idol'), 'Paris Paris', 'Solve Me' and title track, 'Libertine', certainly expose some of those magic moments which fans of THEATRE OF TRAGEDY enjoyed and treasured on 'Aegis' and 'Musique'. The ballads 'Silence', 'Love Crime' and 'Meet Me In The Red Sky' will go straight into you hearts, each of them being absolute individual in their emotional expressions and musical compositions. Alex gave each track a perfect sound in the mix by emphasizing on each song's characteristic accent and atmosphere."
She added, "I can't wait to let you hear this album; it is exceptional to me both personally and in my artistic career, and I can't wait to play these songs for you live! The cover and booklet artwork is completed as well. It took a while for me, personally, to find the artistic expression I wished to expose in my pictures, however, Heile and Alex guided me into the right direction, for which I am so happy and grateful."
Liv debuted the title track of her new album, "Libertine" (see video below), at a special concert on December 2, 2011 at Alte Seminarturnhalle in Nagold, Germany under the banner "One Night With Liv Kristine". Liv performed acoustic versions of her original songs as well as a few covers, including tracks from LEAVES' EYES and THEATRE OF TRAGEDY.
Liv Kristine's third solo album, "Skintight", came out in North America in September 2010 via Napalm Records. The follow-up to 2006's "Enter My Religion" was recorded at Mastersound Studio and the artwork was created by Stefan Heilemann.
LEAVES' EYES and ATROCITY's 2012 South American tour, which was scheduled to take place in early July, has been canceled. According to a statement from the Darkdimensions agency, the trek had to be called off because one of the promoters "couldn't fulfill the needed requirements, which sadly made it not possible for the tour to happen this time as the shows were connected to each other. We are working for the tour to be rescheduled in 2013."
Affected tour dates:
July 03 - San Jose, Costa Rica - La Aduana
July 05 - Quito, Ecuador - Teatro Nacional Benjamin Carrion
July 07 - Buenes Aires, Argentina - The Roxy Live
July 08 - Sao Paulo, Brazil - Carioca Club
Commented LEAVES' EYES' frontwoman Liv Kristine: "With great sadness, we have to announce that the planned shows in July in Latin America can not take place. We are really disappointed that we can't come over and play for all of our Latin American fans and we are working hard at rescheduling the tour for 2013. I'm so sad about this. Lots of love to our Latin America fans and friends."
LEAVES' EYES released a digital-only EP, "Melusine", on December 16, 2011 in Europe and December 20 in the U.S. via Napalm Records. The five-track EP effort includes no less than four previously unreleased songs.
LEAVES' EYES' latest album, "Meredead", entered the German Media Control chart at position No. 32. Released on April 22, 2011 in Germany, Austria and Switzerland via Napalm Records, the effort was made available exclusively as limited-edition mediabook CD, including bonus track and bonus DVD "Live At The Metal Female Voices Fest", strictly limited-edition deluxe box set and regular jewel case. The deluxe box set (pictured below) is limited to 1,000 copies and includes the mediabook CD including bonus track and bonus DVD, "Live At The Metal Female Voices Fest", plus pendant (Celtic cross with LEAVES' EYES branding).
Affected tour dates:
July 03 - San Jose, Costa Rica - La Aduana
July 05 - Quito, Ecuador - Teatro Nacional Benjamin Carrion
July 07 - Buenes Aires, Argentina - The Roxy Live
July 08 - Sao Paulo, Brazil - Carioca Club
Commented LEAVES' EYES' frontwoman Liv Kristine: "With great sadness, we have to announce that the planned shows in July in Latin America can not take place. We are really disappointed that we can't come over and play for all of our Latin American fans and we are working hard at rescheduling the tour for 2013. I'm so sad about this. Lots of love to our Latin America fans and friends."
LEAVES' EYES released a digital-only EP, "Melusine", on December 16, 2011 in Europe and December 20 in the U.S. via Napalm Records. The five-track EP effort includes no less than four previously unreleased songs.
LEAVES' EYES' latest album, "Meredead", entered the German Media Control chart at position No. 32. Released on April 22, 2011 in Germany, Austria and Switzerland via Napalm Records, the effort was made available exclusively as limited-edition mediabook CD, including bonus track and bonus DVD "Live At The Metal Female Voices Fest", strictly limited-edition deluxe box set and regular jewel case. The deluxe box set (pictured below) is limited to 1,000 copies and includes the mediabook CD including bonus track and bonus DVD, "Live At The Metal Female Voices Fest", plus pendant (Celtic cross with LEAVES' EYES branding).
California metallers DEVILDRIVER have inked a worldwide deal with Napalm Records. The band's next album is tentatively scheduled for a release in 2013.
Commented DEVILDRIVER frontman Dez Fafara: "I am proud to announce DEVILDRIVER's new partnership with Napalm Records! They have the passion and the drive we as a band were looking for! I'm looking forward to working together on DEVILDRIVER's next release! Hail the groove!"
Added Markus Riedler, Napalm Records CEO: "We are extremely excited to have this outstanding band on our label roster. DEVILDRIVER are a true metal monster full of primal energy and more than ready to conquer the world with their upcoming album that will be released in the fall of 2013. Join the metal brotherhood and get ready for the world's largest circle pit!"
In a March 2012 interview with Horns Up Rocks!, Fafara was asked what caused DEVILDRIVER's split with longtime label Roadrunner Records. "A lot of things, I think — [depending on] if you talk to them or you talk to us," he replied. "[At the recent show in] New York City, at least ten labels [were there to check us out], and it's good to see them coming out for us. I think it shows what we've done in the past. Roadrunner has been my home since '96 [when Dez was still a member of COAL CHAMBER. — Ed.]. We'll really see what happens. For us, it's not about where to go for the money or any of that right now, it's where do we go for the passion? We're all remaining on good terms [with Roadrunner], so that's a good thing, and we're just moving forward."
When asked about the progress of the songwriting sessions for DEVILDRIVER's sixth album, Fafara told Peek From The Pit in a March 2012 interview, "We used to put a record every two years. It's gonna be a very critical record for us, when it does come out, and we're gonna take time to write it. I actually heard one track the other night that is incredible. We all started writing vocals to it right when we were sitting in the back [of the bus], so if it's gonna stay on that route, I think it's gonna be an incredible record."
Dez also spoke about the the musical direction of DEVILDRIVER's new material and whether the band will attempt to make the next record even more "brutal" than "Beast". "We continue to make our records diverse, which is cool," he said. "Every record is different with DEVILDRIVER, so I think we're gonna surpass what we've done in the past. And then going into the 'brutal' question, it's like, man, everybody is as brutal as everybody now. So we wanna have some diversity and we wanna have some moments and some clarity within the songs. I think the thing we're really focused on is songwriting. We don't have a producer chosen, we don't have the [studio] time [booked]. We don't even know if we're gonna release a record in 2013, maybe 2014, or maybe fall of 2013; we're not sure. So there's all this stuff up in the air. But what we do know is we're having a good time writing and exchanging feelings on the songs. . . Like I said, it's gonna be a very important record in our career, so we're gonna take time and we're gonna craft it."
"Beast", the fifth album from DEVILDRIVER, sold a little over 11,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 42 on The Billboard 200 chart.
Commented DEVILDRIVER frontman Dez Fafara: "I am proud to announce DEVILDRIVER's new partnership with Napalm Records! They have the passion and the drive we as a band were looking for! I'm looking forward to working together on DEVILDRIVER's next release! Hail the groove!"
Added Markus Riedler, Napalm Records CEO: "We are extremely excited to have this outstanding band on our label roster. DEVILDRIVER are a true metal monster full of primal energy and more than ready to conquer the world with their upcoming album that will be released in the fall of 2013. Join the metal brotherhood and get ready for the world's largest circle pit!"
In a March 2012 interview with Horns Up Rocks!, Fafara was asked what caused DEVILDRIVER's split with longtime label Roadrunner Records. "A lot of things, I think — [depending on] if you talk to them or you talk to us," he replied. "[At the recent show in] New York City, at least ten labels [were there to check us out], and it's good to see them coming out for us. I think it shows what we've done in the past. Roadrunner has been my home since '96 [when Dez was still a member of COAL CHAMBER. — Ed.]. We'll really see what happens. For us, it's not about where to go for the money or any of that right now, it's where do we go for the passion? We're all remaining on good terms [with Roadrunner], so that's a good thing, and we're just moving forward."
When asked about the progress of the songwriting sessions for DEVILDRIVER's sixth album, Fafara told Peek From The Pit in a March 2012 interview, "We used to put a record every two years. It's gonna be a very critical record for us, when it does come out, and we're gonna take time to write it. I actually heard one track the other night that is incredible. We all started writing vocals to it right when we were sitting in the back [of the bus], so if it's gonna stay on that route, I think it's gonna be an incredible record."
Dez also spoke about the the musical direction of DEVILDRIVER's new material and whether the band will attempt to make the next record even more "brutal" than "Beast". "We continue to make our records diverse, which is cool," he said. "Every record is different with DEVILDRIVER, so I think we're gonna surpass what we've done in the past. And then going into the 'brutal' question, it's like, man, everybody is as brutal as everybody now. So we wanna have some diversity and we wanna have some moments and some clarity within the songs. I think the thing we're really focused on is songwriting. We don't have a producer chosen, we don't have the [studio] time [booked]. We don't even know if we're gonna release a record in 2013, maybe 2014, or maybe fall of 2013; we're not sure. So there's all this stuff up in the air. But what we do know is we're having a good time writing and exchanging feelings on the songs. . . Like I said, it's gonna be a very important record in our career, so we're gonna take time and we're gonna craft it."
"Beast", the fifth album from DEVILDRIVER, sold a little over 11,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 42 on The Billboard 200 chart.
Finnish folk metallers ENSIFERUM will release their fifth album, "Unsung Heroes", on August 27 via Spinefarm Records. The CD was produced by Hiili Hiilesmaa (HIM, SENTENCED) at Petrax studio (CHILDREN OF BODOM, NIGHTWISH) in Hollola, Finland and other locations in the Hämeenlinna area. According to a press release, the hour-plus follow-up to 2009's "From Afar" "sees the Finnish five-piece — founded in 1995 — pushing their signature sound to bold new heights of drama and excess. A cinematic experience from first note to last, 'Unsung Heroes' takes the listener on a journey of genuine light and shade, with the 16 minute-plus 'Passion Proof Power' showing that when it comes to the epic statement, ENSIFERUM are very much in the front-line, swords at the ready."
Commented the band: "We've tried to push the different aspects of what we do as far as we can; the sonic scope is wider than ever. The folk elements go further down that path and the metallic parts will absolutely rip your face off!"
Once again, album art (see below) has been supplied by Kristian Wåhlin, with featured special guests including members of APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER and legendary Finnish singer and actor Vesa-Matti Loiri.
"Unsung Heroes" track listing:
01. Symbols
02. In My Sword I Trust
03. Unsung Heroes
04. Burning Leaves
05. Celestial Bond
06. Retribution Shall Be Mine
07. Star Queen (Celestial Bond Part II)
08. Pohjola
09. Last Breath
10. Passion Proof Power
A series of websidodes featuring behind-the-scenes footage from the new CD recording process can be seen below.
ENSIFERUM's fourth album, "From Afar", sold around 900 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 44 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.
"From Afar" was released on September 9, 2009 via Spinefarm Records. The CD was produced by Tero Kinnunen (NIGHTWISH, AMORPHIS) and Janne Joutsenniemi ('Victory Songs' producer) and was mixed by Hiili Hiilesmaa (HIM, SENTENCED, AMORPHIS).
Commented the band: "We've tried to push the different aspects of what we do as far as we can; the sonic scope is wider than ever. The folk elements go further down that path and the metallic parts will absolutely rip your face off!"
Once again, album art (see below) has been supplied by Kristian Wåhlin, with featured special guests including members of APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER and legendary Finnish singer and actor Vesa-Matti Loiri.
"Unsung Heroes" track listing:
01. Symbols
02. In My Sword I Trust
03. Unsung Heroes
04. Burning Leaves
05. Celestial Bond
06. Retribution Shall Be Mine
07. Star Queen (Celestial Bond Part II)
08. Pohjola
09. Last Breath
10. Passion Proof Power
A series of websidodes featuring behind-the-scenes footage from the new CD recording process can be seen below.
ENSIFERUM's fourth album, "From Afar", sold around 900 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 44 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.
"From Afar" was released on September 9, 2009 via Spinefarm Records. The CD was produced by Tero Kinnunen (NIGHTWISH, AMORPHIS) and Janne Joutsenniemi ('Victory Songs' producer) and was mixed by Hiili Hiilesmaa (HIM, SENTENCED, AMORPHIS).
http://www.blabbermouth.net/soulflypremiere/ensiferumunsung.jpg
"Hellbound And Heartless", the sophomore album from Los Angeles-based goth-metallers VAMPIRES EVERYWHERE!, sold around 2,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 10 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.
"Hellbound And Heartless" was released on June 19 via Hollywood Waste Records. According to a press release, the CD "showcases the darker side of VAMPIRES EVERYWHERE!, focusing on message-driven lyrics and deriving musical influence from industrial rock icons such as MARILYN MANSON and ROB ZOMBIE. "
"Hellbound And Heartless" was co-produced by the band and Mike Sarkisyan and Tommy Decker, both members of Grammy-nominated alternative-metal act SPINESHANK. Every song on the album presents a fresh, new morsel of gothic darkness for fans to sink their teeth into.
"Early on while recording this record I felt an amazing force behind it," says vocalist Michael Vampire. "'Hellbound And Heartless' is a piece of me and a lyrical representation of who I am. I dedicate this record to our fans and everyone that believed in our vision. Get ready for the new name in horror rock 'n' roll... VAMPIRES EVERYWHERE!"
"Hellbound And Heartless" track listing:
01. I: Hellbound
02. I Can't Breathe
03. Beauty Queen
04. Drug Of Choice
05. II: The Inferno
06. Star Of 666
07. Kiss Of Death
08. Rape Me (NIRVANA cover)
09. Plastic
10. III: The 7th Gate
11. Unholy Eyes
12. Social Suicide
13. IV: Born Individual
14. Anti Hate
15. Hell On Earth
16. Amanda's Song
"Hellbound And Heartless" was released on June 19 via Hollywood Waste Records. According to a press release, the CD "showcases the darker side of VAMPIRES EVERYWHERE!, focusing on message-driven lyrics and deriving musical influence from industrial rock icons such as MARILYN MANSON and ROB ZOMBIE. "
"Hellbound And Heartless" was co-produced by the band and Mike Sarkisyan and Tommy Decker, both members of Grammy-nominated alternative-metal act SPINESHANK. Every song on the album presents a fresh, new morsel of gothic darkness for fans to sink their teeth into.
"Early on while recording this record I felt an amazing force behind it," says vocalist Michael Vampire. "'Hellbound And Heartless' is a piece of me and a lyrical representation of who I am. I dedicate this record to our fans and everyone that believed in our vision. Get ready for the new name in horror rock 'n' roll... VAMPIRES EVERYWHERE!"
"Hellbound And Heartless" track listing:
01. I: Hellbound
02. I Can't Breathe
03. Beauty Queen
04. Drug Of Choice
05. II: The Inferno
06. Star Of 666
07. Kiss Of Death
08. Rape Me (NIRVANA cover)
09. Plastic
10. III: The 7th Gate
11. Unholy Eyes
12. Social Suicide
13. IV: Born Individual
14. Anti Hate
15. Hell On Earth
16. Amanda's Song
"Mnemesis", the fifth studio album from Danish/French modern metallers MNEMIC, sold around 800 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 38 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.
Commented MNEMIC guitarist/songwriter Mircea Gabriel Eftemie: "Good news for the MNEMIC campfire machine: we climbed the charts by 25 positions since the last album! A big thumbs up and thanks to everyone at Nuclear Blast USA who have been promoting the album like there is no tomorrow. Most importantly, to everyone that bought a copy of the new album, we highly appreciate the support and are eternally thankful towards all of you out there! Actually, we are throwing out eternal thank-yous-thumbs-ups-cheerios and 'skål for helvede og mojn i øjn' to everyone involved! That means 'Cheers Goddamnit and see you!' in Danish. See you very soon on tour both in Europe and the U.S.!"
MNEMIC's fourth studio album, "Sons Of The System", opened with around 600 units in Janaury 2010 to enter the Top New Artist Albums chart at No. 64.
"Mnemesis" was recorded at Antfarm studios in Aabyhøj, Denmark with longtime producer Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, HIMSA, SICK OF IT ALL). The cover artwork was created by Metastazis (MORBID ANGEL, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, PARADISE LOST, ULVER) and can be seen below.
"Mnemesis" track listing:
01. Transcend
02. Valves
03. Junkies On The Storm
04. I've Been You
05. Pattern Platform
06. Mnemesis
07. There's No Tomorrow
08. Haven At The End Of The World
09. Ocean Of Void
10. Blue Desert In A Black Hole
11. Empty Planet (bonus track)
The song "I've Been You" can be streamed below.
MNEMIC last year parted ways with drummer Brian "Brylle" Rasmussen and guitarist Rune Stigart and replaced them with Brian Larsen and Victor-Ray Salomonsen, respectively.
MNEMIC 2012 is:
Guillaume Bideau - Vocals
Mircea Gabriel Eftemie - Guitar
Victor-Ray Salomonsen - Guitar
Simone Bertozzi - Bass
Brian Larsen - Drums
Commented MNEMIC guitarist/songwriter Mircea Gabriel Eftemie: "Good news for the MNEMIC campfire machine: we climbed the charts by 25 positions since the last album! A big thumbs up and thanks to everyone at Nuclear Blast USA who have been promoting the album like there is no tomorrow. Most importantly, to everyone that bought a copy of the new album, we highly appreciate the support and are eternally thankful towards all of you out there! Actually, we are throwing out eternal thank-yous-thumbs-ups-cheerios and 'skål for helvede og mojn i øjn' to everyone involved! That means 'Cheers Goddamnit and see you!' in Danish. See you very soon on tour both in Europe and the U.S.!"
MNEMIC's fourth studio album, "Sons Of The System", opened with around 600 units in Janaury 2010 to enter the Top New Artist Albums chart at No. 64.
"Mnemesis" was recorded at Antfarm studios in Aabyhøj, Denmark with longtime producer Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, HIMSA, SICK OF IT ALL). The cover artwork was created by Metastazis (MORBID ANGEL, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, PARADISE LOST, ULVER) and can be seen below.
"Mnemesis" track listing:
01. Transcend
02. Valves
03. Junkies On The Storm
04. I've Been You
05. Pattern Platform
06. Mnemesis
07. There's No Tomorrow
08. Haven At The End Of The World
09. Ocean Of Void
10. Blue Desert In A Black Hole
11. Empty Planet (bonus track)
The song "I've Been You" can be streamed below.
MNEMIC last year parted ways with drummer Brian "Brylle" Rasmussen and guitarist Rune Stigart and replaced them with Brian Larsen and Victor-Ray Salomonsen, respectively.
MNEMIC 2012 is:
Guillaume Bideau - Vocals
Mircea Gabriel Eftemie - Guitar
Victor-Ray Salomonsen - Guitar
Simone Bertozzi - Bass
Brian Larsen - Drums
Kelley Simms of Hails & Horns recently conducted an interview with drummer Miguel "Mike" Gaspar of Portuguese metallers MOONSPELL. A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.
Hails & Horns: "Alpha Noir" is your first album in four years. What took so long from "Night Eternal" until now?
Gaspar: We reached a point in our career where it's pretty hard to go in the right direction because we don't really know what the right direct is! [laughs] All the success that "Night Eternal" had … we started touring a lot. A lot more than previous albums. I think that is part of why it took so long. We really didn't know if the fans were still there for us or still believed in our music. We still believed in ourselves. We really had to get ahold of what we wanted to do and find that inspiration. We came to the conclusion that we needed time for that. Not rushing into another album. Not having the pressure of the record company to make us make another album to lose momentum. And we did do that back in the '90s with "Wolfheart" and then "Sin/Pecado", especially since "Pecado" was an album that we feel today that we rushed into. We learned from that experience that we didn't want to do it again. With all the touring, I think it helped us structure a way of composing between the tours. That was one of our goals, to have it rehearsed, have all the ideas. We want to make sure the fans are satisfied. That's always in the back of our minds of how the fans have supported us and makes us want to do the best we can.
Hails & Horns: Your drumming style is solid but not too flashy. You seem to play in the pocket and keep the beat and only sporadically alternate between double bass and tom fills whenever appropriate. What's your method behond your playing? What are you going for on most of MOONSPELL's material?
Gaspar: You have to understand that when you're in a band, it calls for a commitment and compromises. I think as a drummer, the most important job for me is to play solid and make the band sound the best as you can. That's always been my philosophy and [I] have believed in that the most. Within the rhythm section, you really have to play in the pocket. You can't lose time for a flashy fill here and there or you'll destroy the vocal part or the guitar lead. You have to synchronize and play for the band. We rehearse a lot! We've always had a fear of going on stage and not giving our best. Having that confidence to do it live makes me realize more of the big picture when everything works perfectly and gives people something to remember for their rest of their lives.
Hails & Horns: The Portuguese postal service released a stamp with the cover of "Wolfheart" on it. I guess you're not famous in your native land until you have a stamp!
Gaspar: It's pretty amazing that we have our own stamp. You'd never think a band like us would have our own stamp! This is part of the Portuguese hard rock collection. with all the popular Portuguese bands. We're the youngest band picked. They chose our first album as a landmark for Portuguese metal culture to represent what we've done internationally. This stamp is worth 1 euro, which is worth more internationally than others. Which is really cool for us, because our music reaches other markets. The original cover that came out in '95, it's the one that everyone remembers. So it's very nice. Sometimes I'll send them to fans that will write to me.
Hails & Horns: "Alpha Noir" is your first album in four years. What took so long from "Night Eternal" until now?
Gaspar: We reached a point in our career where it's pretty hard to go in the right direction because we don't really know what the right direct is! [laughs] All the success that "Night Eternal" had … we started touring a lot. A lot more than previous albums. I think that is part of why it took so long. We really didn't know if the fans were still there for us or still believed in our music. We still believed in ourselves. We really had to get ahold of what we wanted to do and find that inspiration. We came to the conclusion that we needed time for that. Not rushing into another album. Not having the pressure of the record company to make us make another album to lose momentum. And we did do that back in the '90s with "Wolfheart" and then "Sin/Pecado", especially since "Pecado" was an album that we feel today that we rushed into. We learned from that experience that we didn't want to do it again. With all the touring, I think it helped us structure a way of composing between the tours. That was one of our goals, to have it rehearsed, have all the ideas. We want to make sure the fans are satisfied. That's always in the back of our minds of how the fans have supported us and makes us want to do the best we can.
Hails & Horns: Your drumming style is solid but not too flashy. You seem to play in the pocket and keep the beat and only sporadically alternate between double bass and tom fills whenever appropriate. What's your method behond your playing? What are you going for on most of MOONSPELL's material?
Gaspar: You have to understand that when you're in a band, it calls for a commitment and compromises. I think as a drummer, the most important job for me is to play solid and make the band sound the best as you can. That's always been my philosophy and [I] have believed in that the most. Within the rhythm section, you really have to play in the pocket. You can't lose time for a flashy fill here and there or you'll destroy the vocal part or the guitar lead. You have to synchronize and play for the band. We rehearse a lot! We've always had a fear of going on stage and not giving our best. Having that confidence to do it live makes me realize more of the big picture when everything works perfectly and gives people something to remember for their rest of their lives.
Hails & Horns: The Portuguese postal service released a stamp with the cover of "Wolfheart" on it. I guess you're not famous in your native land until you have a stamp!
Gaspar: It's pretty amazing that we have our own stamp. You'd never think a band like us would have our own stamp! This is part of the Portuguese hard rock collection. with all the popular Portuguese bands. We're the youngest band picked. They chose our first album as a landmark for Portuguese metal culture to represent what we've done internationally. This stamp is worth 1 euro, which is worth more internationally than others. Which is really cool for us, because our music reaches other markets. The original cover that came out in '95, it's the one that everyone remembers. So it's very nice. Sometimes I'll send them to fans that will write to me.
In a brand new interview with Niclas Müller-Hansen of Sweden's Metalshrine, guitarist/co-founder Anders "Blakkheim" Nyström of Swedish dark rockers KATATONIA was asked about the band's touring plans following the release of their new album, "Dead End Kings". "We're actually going out with OPETH again," he replied. "A new U.S. tour after the one with DEVIN TOWNSEND [PROJECT] and PARADISE LOST. We're gonna play some other territories with OPETH so we're out for another month in October. Then we have four days off and then there's a two-month tour of Europe as part of a package. Some very melodic bands."
This September, KATATONIA and DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT will team up for the "Epic Kings & Idols Tour", a co-headlining North American run featuring PARADISE LOST as direct support and STOLEN BABIES as openers (DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT and KATATONIA will alternate in headlining each show). The trek will kick off on September 4 in Seattle, Washington and conclude on September 24 in Baltimore, Maryland.
This September, KATATONIA and DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT will team up for the "Epic Kings & Idols Tour", a co-headlining North American run featuring PARADISE LOST as direct support and STOLEN BABIES as openers (DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT and KATATONIA will alternate in headlining each show). The trek will kick off on September 4 in Seattle, Washington and conclude on September 24 in Baltimore, Maryland.
Drummer Dave Chavarri of New Jersey/New York's ILL NIÑO will be forced to miss four shows on the band's current European tour due to a "family emergency." He is being temporarily replaced by Matt Alston, who plays in a band called SANCTORUM and is also Dave's tech. ILL NIÑO states, "[Matt] sounds badass so, go check out his band SANCTORUM from the U.K.!"
Added Dave: "I'm very sad that I will not attend the upcoming four ILL NIÑO Euro shows. These are the only four shows I have ever missed since the beginning of ILL NIÑO. This is all very unexpected, but I need to be there for my family, and hope everyone understands... Our dear friend Matt will be filling in for these shows. He was my first choice and I know he will kick ass! Matt has been my drum tech for close to four years, so who better than him to fill in?! Thanks, Matt, thanks to my bros in ILL NIÑO, and thanks to all ILL NIÑO fans for understanding... See you all soon."
ILL NIÑO recently entered the studio to begin laying down its sixth full-length album for a summer release via Victory Records. The recording sessions took place in Hoboken, New Jersey; Austin, Texas; and Denver, Colorado.
Chavarri previously stated about the upcoming CD: "This time around, we want to explore Latin and tribal rhythms we have never explored in the past five releases, giving us no musical boundaries at all."
ILL NIÑO's fifth album, "Dead New World", sold around 3,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 164 on The Billboard 200 chart. The band's previous effort, "Enigma", opened with 5,000 units to land at No. 145 back in March 2008.
"Dead New World" was released on October 26, 2010 via Victory Records. The follow-up to 2008's "Enigma" was self-produced, with co-production coming from Clint Lowery (SEVENDUST) and Sahaj Ticotin (RA), and mixed by Eddie Wohl (36 CRAZYFISTS, ANTHRAX, SMILE EMPTY SOUL). The album artwork was created by Tim Butler of XIII Designs (DISTURBED, SLIPKNOT, METALLICA, SLAYER, MICHAEL JACKSON).
Added Dave: "I'm very sad that I will not attend the upcoming four ILL NIÑO Euro shows. These are the only four shows I have ever missed since the beginning of ILL NIÑO. This is all very unexpected, but I need to be there for my family, and hope everyone understands... Our dear friend Matt will be filling in for these shows. He was my first choice and I know he will kick ass! Matt has been my drum tech for close to four years, so who better than him to fill in?! Thanks, Matt, thanks to my bros in ILL NIÑO, and thanks to all ILL NIÑO fans for understanding... See you all soon."
ILL NIÑO recently entered the studio to begin laying down its sixth full-length album for a summer release via Victory Records. The recording sessions took place in Hoboken, New Jersey; Austin, Texas; and Denver, Colorado.
Chavarri previously stated about the upcoming CD: "This time around, we want to explore Latin and tribal rhythms we have never explored in the past five releases, giving us no musical boundaries at all."
ILL NIÑO's fifth album, "Dead New World", sold around 3,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 164 on The Billboard 200 chart. The band's previous effort, "Enigma", opened with 5,000 units to land at No. 145 back in March 2008.
"Dead New World" was released on October 26, 2010 via Victory Records. The follow-up to 2008's "Enigma" was self-produced, with co-production coming from Clint Lowery (SEVENDUST) and Sahaj Ticotin (RA), and mixed by Eddie Wohl (36 CRAZYFISTS, ANTHRAX, SMILE EMPTY SOUL). The album artwork was created by Tim Butler of XIII Designs (DISTURBED, SLIPKNOT, METALLICA, SLAYER, MICHAEL JACKSON).
New York metal band GREY SKIES FALLEN has made its new EP, "Introspective", available for streaming on its ReverbNation page. The EP is also available for purchase for $3 on the band's Bandcamp page.
"Introspective" features three songs, one of which is the epic, 20-minute-plus title track. The cover artwork was created by Travis Smith and can be seen below.
"Introspective" is GREY SKIES FALLEN's first release since 2010's "Along Came Life". It was recorded as a three-piece band, with Dave Case (HELMET) helping out on bass. This also marks the first GREY SKIES FALLEN release without co-founding member Joe D'Angelo on guitar. Frontman/guitarist Rick Habeeb handled all guitar work on this EP.
GREY SKIES FALLEN is currently seeking a guitarist and bassist to fill out their ranks. The band is anxious to resume playing live. Interested musicians are invited to email the band at gsfband@gmail.com.
"Introspective" features three songs, one of which is the epic, 20-minute-plus title track. The cover artwork was created by Travis Smith and can be seen below.
"Introspective" is GREY SKIES FALLEN's first release since 2010's "Along Came Life". It was recorded as a three-piece band, with Dave Case (HELMET) helping out on bass. This also marks the first GREY SKIES FALLEN release without co-founding member Joe D'Angelo on guitar. Frontman/guitarist Rick Habeeb handled all guitar work on this EP.
GREY SKIES FALLEN is currently seeking a guitarist and bassist to fill out their ranks. The band is anxious to resume playing live. Interested musicians are invited to email the band at gsfband@gmail.com.
According to the organizers of Germany's Party.San Open Air festival, which is scheduled to take place August 9-12 in Bad Berka, Florida death metal veterans DEICIDE have canceled their previously announced summer European tour "for reasons which are beyond of our control." The organizers add, "We are very sorry about this decision and need to go on without the band. Polish kings of satanic death metal BEHEMOTH will headline on Saturday, August 11th. We thank Nergal and crew for the great help and the quick conversions of [their] schedules. BEHEMOTH are the ineffable kings of satanic death metal and they will without doubt rule the festival. We hope you are happy as we are about this unexpected booking!"
DEICIDE recently completed the North American headlining "March Of Death 2012" trek, with support from JUNGLE ROT, ABIGAIL WILLIAMS and LECHEROUS NOCTURNE.
DEICIDE's latest album, "To Hell With God", sold 2,200 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD was issued on February 15, 2011 via Century Media Records. It was produced by Mark Lewis (THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, CHIMAIRA) at Audiohammer Studios in Sanford, Florida.
DEICIDE's previous CD, "Till Death Do Us Part", opened with 2,900 copies back in May 2008.
DEICIDE last year completed the "God Is Dead – To Hell With God Tour" with support from BELPHEGOR, BLACKGUARD, NEURAXIS and PATHOLOGY.
DEICIDE's "Conviction" video was directed by David Brodsky and Tim Kellen (Brodsky also handled editing duties while Kellen animated the video) and produced by MyGoodEye LLC. The clip tells the story of frontman Glen Benton and his pursuit of Jesus, claymation-style.
DEICIDE recently completed the North American headlining "March Of Death 2012" trek, with support from JUNGLE ROT, ABIGAIL WILLIAMS and LECHEROUS NOCTURNE.
DEICIDE's latest album, "To Hell With God", sold 2,200 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD was issued on February 15, 2011 via Century Media Records. It was produced by Mark Lewis (THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, CHIMAIRA) at Audiohammer Studios in Sanford, Florida.
DEICIDE's previous CD, "Till Death Do Us Part", opened with 2,900 copies back in May 2008.
DEICIDE last year completed the "God Is Dead – To Hell With God Tour" with support from BELPHEGOR, BLACKGUARD, NEURAXIS and PATHOLOGY.
DEICIDE's "Conviction" video was directed by David Brodsky and Tim Kellen (Brodsky also handled editing duties while Kellen animated the video) and produced by MyGoodEye LLC. The clip tells the story of frontman Glen Benton and his pursuit of Jesus, claymation-style.
The new self-titled fourth album from Knoxville, Tennessee death metallers WHITECHAPEL sold around 9,200 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 47 on The Billboard 200 chart. The band's previous CD, "A New Era Of Corruption", opened with around 10,600 units back in June 2010 to land at No. 43.
"Whitechapel" was released on June 19 via Metal Blade Records. The CD was engineered and mixed by Mark Lewis (THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, DEVILDRIVER), who also handled production duties alongside the band. The artwork was created by Aaron Marsh of Forefathers Group with art direction provided by WHITECHAPEL.
The first single from "Whitechapel", entitled "Hate Creation", is available for streaming below.
"Whitechapel" track listing:
01. Make It Bleed
02. Hate Creation
03. (Cult)uralist
04. I, Dementia
05. Section 8
06. Faces
07. Dead Silence
08. The Night Remains
09. Devoid
10. Possibilities Of An Impossible Existence
A press release states: "Having spent several years lauded as one of the frontrunners in their genre, in 2012 WHITECHAPEL stand as a defining force in contemporary heavy music. Building dramatically on the trademarked bludgeon of their first three releases, with WHITECHAPEL the Tennessean sextet have inarguably delivered their most intense, dynamic, and downright hostile record to date. Drenched in atmospheric darkness, the record is also rife with gripping melodies that drag the listener in to the tumult, willing or otherwise, and across its ten tracks it is infused with an emotional depth that pointedly separates the band from the plethora of two-dimensional mosh-starters that have sprung up in their wake."
In a recent interview with Capital Chaos, WHITECHAPEL guitarist Zach Householder stated about the band's the forthcoming CD, "Everybody always says, 'Do stuff more like 'The Somatic Defilement' [2007] or 'This Is Exile' [2008], but every album, we always try to do it differently for a change." He added, "[The new material] probably has some faster stuff like 'A New Era Of Corruption' [2010], but it's definitely got some slower stuff, too. It's groovier and it's got more hooks and catches. If you're a 'The Somatic Defilement' fan, you're gonna like it, but if you're expecting [another] 'The Somatic Defilement', you're not gonna get it. It's still gonna be heavy. It's WHITECHAPEL. It's gonna be angry; it's very pissed off. I don't know what else to say… It's us trying to do it in our own way as opposed to us trying to live up to what people's expectations are of us. We don't wanna alienate our fans by any means. It's just that we want them to sit there and go, 'OK, well, this band does this one thing, and they do it differently every time.' So I guess you either like it or you hate it. Even so, if you do it differently the next time, you might gain more fans."
WHITECHAPEL will be a part of this summer's Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival, which starts June 30.
"Whitechapel" was released on June 19 via Metal Blade Records. The CD was engineered and mixed by Mark Lewis (THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, DEVILDRIVER), who also handled production duties alongside the band. The artwork was created by Aaron Marsh of Forefathers Group with art direction provided by WHITECHAPEL.
The first single from "Whitechapel", entitled "Hate Creation", is available for streaming below.
"Whitechapel" track listing:
01. Make It Bleed
02. Hate Creation
03. (Cult)uralist
04. I, Dementia
05. Section 8
06. Faces
07. Dead Silence
08. The Night Remains
09. Devoid
10. Possibilities Of An Impossible Existence
A press release states: "Having spent several years lauded as one of the frontrunners in their genre, in 2012 WHITECHAPEL stand as a defining force in contemporary heavy music. Building dramatically on the trademarked bludgeon of their first three releases, with WHITECHAPEL the Tennessean sextet have inarguably delivered their most intense, dynamic, and downright hostile record to date. Drenched in atmospheric darkness, the record is also rife with gripping melodies that drag the listener in to the tumult, willing or otherwise, and across its ten tracks it is infused with an emotional depth that pointedly separates the band from the plethora of two-dimensional mosh-starters that have sprung up in their wake."
In a recent interview with Capital Chaos, WHITECHAPEL guitarist Zach Householder stated about the band's the forthcoming CD, "Everybody always says, 'Do stuff more like 'The Somatic Defilement' [2007] or 'This Is Exile' [2008], but every album, we always try to do it differently for a change." He added, "[The new material] probably has some faster stuff like 'A New Era Of Corruption' [2010], but it's definitely got some slower stuff, too. It's groovier and it's got more hooks and catches. If you're a 'The Somatic Defilement' fan, you're gonna like it, but if you're expecting [another] 'The Somatic Defilement', you're not gonna get it. It's still gonna be heavy. It's WHITECHAPEL. It's gonna be angry; it's very pissed off. I don't know what else to say… It's us trying to do it in our own way as opposed to us trying to live up to what people's expectations are of us. We don't wanna alienate our fans by any means. It's just that we want them to sit there and go, 'OK, well, this band does this one thing, and they do it differently every time.' So I guess you either like it or you hate it. Even so, if you do it differently the next time, you might gain more fans."
WHITECHAPEL will be a part of this summer's Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival, which starts June 30.
"Eremita", the fourth album from former EMPEROR vocalist/guitarist Ihsahn, sold around 900 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 32 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.
Released on June 19 in North America (one day earlier in Europe) via Candlelight Records, "Eremita" was recorded and produced at Telemark's Ivory Shoulder Studios, with additional tracking completed at Notodden's Juke Joint Studio and Seattle's Envisage Audio. The effort was mixed by Jens Bogren (OPETH) at Fascination Street Studios in Örebro, Sweden. Alongside Ihsahn, the album features performances from drummer Tobias Ornes Andersen (LEPROUS), saxophonist Jørgen Munkeby (Norway's SHINING), guitarist Jeff Loomis (ex-NEVERMORE), and vocalists Devin Townsend, Einar Solberg (LEPROUS), and Heidi S. Tveitan (STAROFASH). The album's packaging was created by award-winning Spanish designer Ritxi Ostariz.
"Eremita" begins a new musical chapter for the highly regarded musician; his previous album, "After", forming the final part of a planned trilogy on its release in early 2010. Offering nine new songs to his growing worldwide audience, "Eremita" is the longest and most spirited of Ihsahn's solo recordings.
Reflecting on the recording process, Ihsahn notes, "This is right where I want to be musically, with lots of room for dynamics and expressive variety. Tobias and Jørgen have really added to the organic vibe I was going for and have contributed to the overall feel with their fantastic musicianship. And to have Devin, Jeff, Einar and Heidi adding their special moments, I am very privileged to be able to work with such a talented group of people. I really feel this is some of my most inspired work yet."
Exhibiting Ihsahn's highly-trained guitar and keyboard skills, "Eremita" (Latin for "hermit") is a journey that is sure to find an expanded audience for the revered 36-year-old.
A special two-minute video preview of "Eremita", featuring audio segments from the record and exclusive footage filmed during the album's creation, is available below.
"Eremita" is available on standard CD and a limited edition deluxe digibook (featuring an exclusive bonus track).
"Eremita" track listing:
01. Arrival
02. The Paranoid
03. Introspection
04. The Eagle And The Snake
05. Catharsis
06. Something Out There
07. Grief
08. The Grave
09. Departure
10. Recollection(deluxe edition only)
Released on June 19 in North America (one day earlier in Europe) via Candlelight Records, "Eremita" was recorded and produced at Telemark's Ivory Shoulder Studios, with additional tracking completed at Notodden's Juke Joint Studio and Seattle's Envisage Audio. The effort was mixed by Jens Bogren (OPETH) at Fascination Street Studios in Örebro, Sweden. Alongside Ihsahn, the album features performances from drummer Tobias Ornes Andersen (LEPROUS), saxophonist Jørgen Munkeby (Norway's SHINING), guitarist Jeff Loomis (ex-NEVERMORE), and vocalists Devin Townsend, Einar Solberg (LEPROUS), and Heidi S. Tveitan (STAROFASH). The album's packaging was created by award-winning Spanish designer Ritxi Ostariz.
"Eremita" begins a new musical chapter for the highly regarded musician; his previous album, "After", forming the final part of a planned trilogy on its release in early 2010. Offering nine new songs to his growing worldwide audience, "Eremita" is the longest and most spirited of Ihsahn's solo recordings.
Reflecting on the recording process, Ihsahn notes, "This is right where I want to be musically, with lots of room for dynamics and expressive variety. Tobias and Jørgen have really added to the organic vibe I was going for and have contributed to the overall feel with their fantastic musicianship. And to have Devin, Jeff, Einar and Heidi adding their special moments, I am very privileged to be able to work with such a talented group of people. I really feel this is some of my most inspired work yet."
Exhibiting Ihsahn's highly-trained guitar and keyboard skills, "Eremita" (Latin for "hermit") is a journey that is sure to find an expanded audience for the revered 36-year-old.
A special two-minute video preview of "Eremita", featuring audio segments from the record and exclusive footage filmed during the album's creation, is available below.
"Eremita" is available on standard CD and a limited edition deluxe digibook (featuring an exclusive bonus track).
"Eremita" track listing:
01. Arrival
02. The Paranoid
03. Introspection
04. The Eagle And The Snake
05. Catharsis
06. Something Out There
07. Grief
08. The Grave
09. Departure
10. Recollection(deluxe edition only)
Austrian black metallers HELLSAW have announced their intention to take an indefinite break from their activities. All scheduled tours and appearances during 20012/13 have been cancelled. Citing "personal reasons" for the decision, frontman and founder Aries had this to say: "We may be back, or we may be back as something entirely different, but whatever happens in the future we would just like to thank all the fans who have shown us such phenomenal support and all the people who have worked with us to make HELLSAW what it is today."
Formed in 2002 by Aries, and then-drummer Svart, HELLSAW's current lineup includes Aries on vocals, Malthus and Isiul on guitar, Desderoth on bass and Neuroticon on drums. With five full-length albums under its belt, HELLSAW is one of the leading black metal bands to emerge from Austria in recent years. The group's use of instantly recognizable melodies which stay firmly in your memory, coupled with a respect and understanding of what it really takes to make a good black metal band, created a sound that was unmistakably HELLSAW and culminated in the release of their fifth album, "Trist", earlier this year on Napalm Records.
Formed in 2002 by Aries, and then-drummer Svart, HELLSAW's current lineup includes Aries on vocals, Malthus and Isiul on guitar, Desderoth on bass and Neuroticon on drums. With five full-length albums under its belt, HELLSAW is one of the leading black metal bands to emerge from Austria in recent years. The group's use of instantly recognizable melodies which stay firmly in your memory, coupled with a respect and understanding of what it really takes to make a good black metal band, created a sound that was unmistakably HELLSAW and culminated in the release of their fifth album, "Trist", earlier this year on Napalm Records.
Deathbound Records has announced the signing of Denmark's BY THE PATIENT, winners of the 2010 Danish edition of Wacken Open Air Metal Battle. The band's brutal sophomore album titled "Premonitions" was recorded, mixed and mastered by Jacob Bredahl (THE KANDIDATE, ex-HATESPHERE).
Commented the group in a statement: "Deathbound Records is a new label, but they have all the qualities we searched for. We are certain that Deathbound Records will take us to the next level. They are very dedicated and together we will make great things happen."
A new BY THE PATIENT song, "A Distorted Mirror Image", can be streamed using the SoundCloud player below.
BY THE PATIENT's debut CD, "Servants", came out in 2011 via Ultimhate Records.
BY THE PATIENT is:
Tan Møhl-Hansen - Vocals
Simon Sonne Andersen - Guitar
Troels Cort Nielsen - Bass
Theis Wilmer Poulsen - Guitar
Adam Schønemann – Drums
Commented the group in a statement: "Deathbound Records is a new label, but they have all the qualities we searched for. We are certain that Deathbound Records will take us to the next level. They are very dedicated and together we will make great things happen."
A new BY THE PATIENT song, "A Distorted Mirror Image", can be streamed using the SoundCloud player below.
BY THE PATIENT's debut CD, "Servants", came out in 2011 via Ultimhate Records.
BY THE PATIENT is:
Tan Møhl-Hansen - Vocals
Simon Sonne Andersen - Guitar
Troels Cort Nielsen - Bass
Theis Wilmer Poulsen - Guitar
Adam Schønemann – Drums
"Reign Supreme", the new album from Maryland extreme metallers DYING FETUS, sold around 3,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 186 on The Billboard 200 chart. The CD landed at position No. 5 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.
DYING FETUS's previous collection of original material, "Descend Into Depravity", opened with around 2,700 units to land at No. 166.
Released on June 19 via Relapse Records, "Reign Supreme" was recorded at Wrightway Studios in Baltimore with longtime producer Steve Wright (SLIPKNOT, MISERY INDEX). It will feature nine tracks and is "a 'return to roots,' with production focused slightly more on slam than in the band's last few works," according to a press release. "Thematically, the album is set to be a good old-fashioned piece of social and political commentary in the style of DYING FETUS as we have come to know."
Commented DYING FETUS guitarist/vocalist John Gallagher: "The last album had some groove in it, but [it] was basically a lot of tech; this one is a return to form of older DYING FETUS albums, so to speak — more modern production, though, of course. Everything's tight, the sound is crushing, the drums are amazing."
"Reign Supreme" track listing:
01. Invert The Idols
02. Subjected To A Beating
03. Second Skin
04. From Womb To Waste
05. Dissidence
06. In The Trenches
07. Devout Atrocity
08. Revisionist Past
09. The Blood Of Power
The "From Womb To Waste" video can be seen below. The clip, which features 12 camera angles from last month's live show at Maryland Deathfest at Sonar in Baltimore, Maryland, was filmed and directed by Scott Hansen (ANIMALS AS LEADERS, A DAY TO REMEMBER).
DYING FETUS recently completed the Metal Alliance Tour with DEVILDRIVER, THE FACELESS, JOB FOR A COWBOY, 3 INCHES OF BLOOD and IMPENDING DOOM.
DYING FETUS's previous collection of original material, "Descend Into Depravity", opened with around 2,700 units to land at No. 166.
Released on June 19 via Relapse Records, "Reign Supreme" was recorded at Wrightway Studios in Baltimore with longtime producer Steve Wright (SLIPKNOT, MISERY INDEX). It will feature nine tracks and is "a 'return to roots,' with production focused slightly more on slam than in the band's last few works," according to a press release. "Thematically, the album is set to be a good old-fashioned piece of social and political commentary in the style of DYING FETUS as we have come to know."
Commented DYING FETUS guitarist/vocalist John Gallagher: "The last album had some groove in it, but [it] was basically a lot of tech; this one is a return to form of older DYING FETUS albums, so to speak — more modern production, though, of course. Everything's tight, the sound is crushing, the drums are amazing."
"Reign Supreme" track listing:
01. Invert The Idols
02. Subjected To A Beating
03. Second Skin
04. From Womb To Waste
05. Dissidence
06. In The Trenches
07. Devout Atrocity
08. Revisionist Past
09. The Blood Of Power
The "From Womb To Waste" video can be seen below. The clip, which features 12 camera angles from last month's live show at Maryland Deathfest at Sonar in Baltimore, Maryland, was filmed and directed by Scott Hansen (ANIMALS AS LEADERS, A DAY TO REMEMBER).
DYING FETUS recently completed the Metal Alliance Tour with DEVILDRIVER, THE FACELESS, JOB FOR A COWBOY, 3 INCHES OF BLOOD and IMPENDING DOOM.
NoiseArt Records and the concert artist agency Rock The Nation have announced the signing of Swedish viking/black metallers THYRFING to a worldwide deal. The band's first CD since 2008's critically acclaimed "Hels Vite" will be recorded and mixed during late summer and early fall for a spring 2013 release.
Commented the band: "We are really looking forward to this new co-operation and truly believe that NoiseArt Records and Rock The Nation are the right channel for bringing ourmusic to the public and fans in the future."
After 17 years in the band, original member and bassist Kimmy Sjölund recently decided to leave THYRFING. Joakim Kristensson has since taken over the bass duties. The band also welcomed a new drummer, Dennis Ekdahl.
THYRFING 2012 is:
Jens Rydén - Vocals
Patrik Lindgren - Guitar
Fredrik Hernborg - Guitar
Joakim Kristensson - Bass
Peter Löf - Synthesizers
Dennis Ekdahl - Drums
"Hels Vite" was released in October 2008 via Regain Records. The CD was co-produced (with the band) by Jörgen Svensson of Tyroon Production and the cover artwork was created by the Swedish artist Mikael Schelén. The layout and the photos were handled by Jens Rydén.
THYRFING in 2007 announced the addition of Jens Rydén as the band's new vocalist. Jens is best known as founding member and ex-vocalist of NAGLFAR and for his one-man army PROFUNDI.
Commented the band: "We are really looking forward to this new co-operation and truly believe that NoiseArt Records and Rock The Nation are the right channel for bringing ourmusic to the public and fans in the future."
After 17 years in the band, original member and bassist Kimmy Sjölund recently decided to leave THYRFING. Joakim Kristensson has since taken over the bass duties. The band also welcomed a new drummer, Dennis Ekdahl.
THYRFING 2012 is:
Jens Rydén - Vocals
Patrik Lindgren - Guitar
Fredrik Hernborg - Guitar
Joakim Kristensson - Bass
Peter Löf - Synthesizers
Dennis Ekdahl - Drums
"Hels Vite" was released in October 2008 via Regain Records. The CD was co-produced (with the band) by Jörgen Svensson of Tyroon Production and the cover artwork was created by the Swedish artist Mikael Schelén. The layout and the photos were handled by Jens Rydén.
THYRFING in 2007 announced the addition of Jens Rydén as the band's new vocalist. Jens is best known as founding member and ex-vocalist of NAGLFAR and for his one-man army PROFUNDI.
ROAD'S END, the band featuring bassist Marcin "Novy" Nowak (BEHEMOTH, VADER), drummer Varyen Chylinski (AGAINST THE PLAGUES, FOREST OF IMPALED, DAMNATION) and recently enlisted Italian guitarist, composer, arranger, teacher Mattia Mariotti — has announced the addition of Canadian singer Andre Versailles to the group's ranks.
Commented ROAD'S END: "Andre is a Canadian vocalist from the band INIRE and also known as a session singer from many of his own side projects. Andre started working with Novy on the formation of ROAD'S END specific musical style. After two years of collaboration, Andre and Novy decided to further ROAD'S END's success by recording an album and taking the first important step in ROAD'S END's career."
According to a press release, "ROAD'S END is somewhat of a departure from BEHEMOTH and VADER. Of course, there will be intense moments of passion, anger, rage and hatred, but there will also be places for other emotions to be expressed. Simply put, there were no rules or formulas to ROAD'S END music when the idea first came to Novy to start this group, and there will be none in the future."
When asked about the direction of ROAD'S END's material, Novy said, "Metal is universal, it's everywhere and it has no borders anymore and that's exactly what I wanted for my band: No borders. In the 21st century, there are no borders that can hold heavy metal anymore. There are no boundaries anymore either. And where genres like black metal, speed metal or thrash end, is exactly where ROAD'S END begins. Think of it as American heavy metal with a European soul."
Novy has recorded 17 full-length CDs and taped five official DVDs, all with worldwide distribution. He was also named one of the best bass players in all of the industry-related magazines.
Novy is an extremely versatile musician who is inspired not only by heavy metal, but also jazz, classical and other "good" music.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/roadsendofficial.
Commented ROAD'S END: "Andre is a Canadian vocalist from the band INIRE and also known as a session singer from many of his own side projects. Andre started working with Novy on the formation of ROAD'S END specific musical style. After two years of collaboration, Andre and Novy decided to further ROAD'S END's success by recording an album and taking the first important step in ROAD'S END's career."
According to a press release, "ROAD'S END is somewhat of a departure from BEHEMOTH and VADER. Of course, there will be intense moments of passion, anger, rage and hatred, but there will also be places for other emotions to be expressed. Simply put, there were no rules or formulas to ROAD'S END music when the idea first came to Novy to start this group, and there will be none in the future."
When asked about the direction of ROAD'S END's material, Novy said, "Metal is universal, it's everywhere and it has no borders anymore and that's exactly what I wanted for my band: No borders. In the 21st century, there are no borders that can hold heavy metal anymore. There are no boundaries anymore either. And where genres like black metal, speed metal or thrash end, is exactly where ROAD'S END begins. Think of it as American heavy metal with a European soul."
Novy has recorded 17 full-length CDs and taped five official DVDs, all with worldwide distribution. He was also named one of the best bass players in all of the industry-related magazines.
Novy is an extremely versatile musician who is inspired not only by heavy metal, but also jazz, classical and other "good" music.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/roadsendofficial.
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