KISS is regarded as one of the most influential rock and roll bands of all-time and holds the honor as one of America's top gold-record champions.
On August 21, Universal Music Enterprises (UMe) will release KISS's 1976 multi-platinum, landmark album "Destroyer: Resurrected", newly remixed from the original master tapes by the album's original producer, Bob Ezrin. Ezrin pulled the tapes from the vaults and painstakingly remixed the entire album, enhancing the sound and bringing out its rich texture and vibrancy, while keeping the integrity of the original recording intact. "Destroyer: Resurrected" will also include rare and unreleased recordings rediscovered during the remixing process, plus the originally intended cover artwork.
Hot on the heels of their breakthrough hit album "Alive!", KISS released their fourth studio album "Destroyer" which is considered the most ambitious studio recording of KISS's '70s catalog. Bob Ezrin, who had previously worked with Alice Cooper, was brought in to produce the album and among the production flourishes Ezrin introduced to KISS were sound effects, strings, a children's choir, reversed drumming and the eerie, echoing sounds of screaming children over Gene Simmons' vocals on "God Of Thunder". Upon its release, "Destroyer" reached the No. 11 position on the Billboard Top 200 and, with the help of the surprise top-10 hit "Beth", was their first album to go platinum.
Originally released as the B-side to the single "Detroit Rock City", "Beth — the heart-yearning ballad co-written and performed by drummer Peter Criss — was quickly picked up by radio nationwide and became the first top 10 for KISS, climbing all the way to the No. 7 position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. While going through the original tapes, a forgotten vocal piece that was originally edited out in the final mix of "Beth" was discovered and now, for the first time, the complete original vocal recording has been restored and is included in the final mix. Other rediscovered gems include a complete, alternate guitar solo for the track "Sweet Pain", now heard for the first time since it was originally recorded. The newly remixed "Sweet Pain" with the original guitar solo will be included as a bonus track. In addition to the treasures found buried in the hours of recordings, KISS classics such as "Detroit Rock City", "Shout It Out Loud", "Do You Love Me?" and "God Of Thunder" were painstakingly remixed by Ezrin as he fleshed out the drums and guitars, bringing out the bottom end to the bass, making his mixes tight and tough.
In addition, "Destroyer: Resurrected" will now be issued with the originally intended cover art thought too controversial for the time. Created by artist Ken Kelly, the "brown" cover depicts KISS dressed in their "Alive!" costumes and standing on rubble in front of a burning city in ruins. At the time, the record company thought it was too violent and settled for the tamer "blue" version known today. This release also marked the first time that a comic-book illustration of the band appeared on the cover, confirming that the band was transforming from hard rockers to superheroes.
To this day, "Destroyer" remains one of the group's most ambitious recordings and greatest accomplishments. In both Kerrang! and Guitar World magazine it is listed as one of the "100 Greatest Heavy Metal Albums Of All Time" and in 2003, it was included on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the "500 Greatest Albums Of All Time." Now, with today's state-of-the-art technology, this landmark release can be heard the way that KISS intended.
The KISS legacy continues to grow, generation after generation, transcending age, race and creed. KISS releases their 20th studio album, "Monster", on October 15 internationally and October 16 in North America.
"Destroyer: Resurrected" track listing:
01. Detroit Rock City
02. King Of The Night Time World
03. God Of Thunder
04. Great Expectations
05. Flaming Youth
06. Sweet Pain
07. Shout It Out Loud
08. Beth
09. Do You Love Me?
10. Sweet Pain (original guitar solo) (bonus track)
The "Destroyer: Resurrected" cover artwork can be seen below.
Released in March 1976, "Destroyer" was the second consecutive KISS album to reach the Top 20 in the U.S. The LP was certified gold by the RIAA on April 22, 1976. It was certified platinum on November 11, 1976, the first KISS album to achieve that distinction.
On August 21, Universal Music Enterprises (UMe) will release KISS's 1976 multi-platinum, landmark album "Destroyer: Resurrected", newly remixed from the original master tapes by the album's original producer, Bob Ezrin. Ezrin pulled the tapes from the vaults and painstakingly remixed the entire album, enhancing the sound and bringing out its rich texture and vibrancy, while keeping the integrity of the original recording intact. "Destroyer: Resurrected" will also include rare and unreleased recordings rediscovered during the remixing process, plus the originally intended cover artwork.
Hot on the heels of their breakthrough hit album "Alive!", KISS released their fourth studio album "Destroyer" which is considered the most ambitious studio recording of KISS's '70s catalog. Bob Ezrin, who had previously worked with Alice Cooper, was brought in to produce the album and among the production flourishes Ezrin introduced to KISS were sound effects, strings, a children's choir, reversed drumming and the eerie, echoing sounds of screaming children over Gene Simmons' vocals on "God Of Thunder". Upon its release, "Destroyer" reached the No. 11 position on the Billboard Top 200 and, with the help of the surprise top-10 hit "Beth", was their first album to go platinum.
Originally released as the B-side to the single "Detroit Rock City", "Beth — the heart-yearning ballad co-written and performed by drummer Peter Criss — was quickly picked up by radio nationwide and became the first top 10 for KISS, climbing all the way to the No. 7 position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. While going through the original tapes, a forgotten vocal piece that was originally edited out in the final mix of "Beth" was discovered and now, for the first time, the complete original vocal recording has been restored and is included in the final mix. Other rediscovered gems include a complete, alternate guitar solo for the track "Sweet Pain", now heard for the first time since it was originally recorded. The newly remixed "Sweet Pain" with the original guitar solo will be included as a bonus track. In addition to the treasures found buried in the hours of recordings, KISS classics such as "Detroit Rock City", "Shout It Out Loud", "Do You Love Me?" and "God Of Thunder" were painstakingly remixed by Ezrin as he fleshed out the drums and guitars, bringing out the bottom end to the bass, making his mixes tight and tough.
In addition, "Destroyer: Resurrected" will now be issued with the originally intended cover art thought too controversial for the time. Created by artist Ken Kelly, the "brown" cover depicts KISS dressed in their "Alive!" costumes and standing on rubble in front of a burning city in ruins. At the time, the record company thought it was too violent and settled for the tamer "blue" version known today. This release also marked the first time that a comic-book illustration of the band appeared on the cover, confirming that the band was transforming from hard rockers to superheroes.
To this day, "Destroyer" remains one of the group's most ambitious recordings and greatest accomplishments. In both Kerrang! and Guitar World magazine it is listed as one of the "100 Greatest Heavy Metal Albums Of All Time" and in 2003, it was included on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the "500 Greatest Albums Of All Time." Now, with today's state-of-the-art technology, this landmark release can be heard the way that KISS intended.
The KISS legacy continues to grow, generation after generation, transcending age, race and creed. KISS releases their 20th studio album, "Monster", on October 15 internationally and October 16 in North America.
"Destroyer: Resurrected" track listing:
01. Detroit Rock City
02. King Of The Night Time World
03. God Of Thunder
04. Great Expectations
05. Flaming Youth
06. Sweet Pain
07. Shout It Out Loud
08. Beth
09. Do You Love Me?
10. Sweet Pain (original guitar solo) (bonus track)
The "Destroyer: Resurrected" cover artwork can be seen below.
Released in March 1976, "Destroyer" was the second consecutive KISS album to reach the Top 20 in the U.S. The LP was certified gold by the RIAA on April 22, 1976. It was certified platinum on November 11, 1976, the first KISS album to achieve that distinction.
Just a few months after the June 5 release of their acclaimed debut "Big Moon Ritual" album, the CHRIS ROBINSON BROTHERHOOD — Chris Robinson (lead vocals, guitar), Neal Casal (guitar, vocals), Adam MacDougall (keys, vocals), George Sluppick (drums) and Mark Dutton (bass, vocals — is set to release the companion album, "The Magic Door", on September 11 via Silver Arrow/Megaforce. Both albums were recorded in two marathon sessions earlier this year at Sunset Sound in Los Angeles with producer Thom Monahan (VETIVER, DEVENDRA BANHART, PAPERCUTS) after the band wrapped up a 118-show 2011 tour during which the band road-tested all the material.
"I would say very early on in the recording — within the first two days," says Robinson when asked about the moment he realized two albums would emerge. "Thom had encouraged us to remain true to the arrangements we had been playing all year on the road. We inevitably had some longer pieces and felt that the performances were strong enough that we didn't want to edit them for any extraneous reasons."
"The Magic Door" contains seven songs: six originals — "Someday Past The Sunset", "Vibration & Light Suite", "Appaloosa", "Little Lizzie Mae", "Sorrows Of A Blue Eyed Liar" and "Wheel Don't Roll" — plus a cover of Hank Ballard's "Let's Go, Let's Go, Let's Go", a CRB setlist staple. The songs (written by Robinson, with Neal Casal on "Wheel Don't Roll" and Casal and Adam MacDougal on "Sorrows Of A Blue Eyed Liar") are all free flowing and some lengthy, with "Vibration & Light Suite" clocking in at 13:56. This is music that is in no hurry to reach its destination but firmly knows where it is going and the speed at which it is traveling.
On the album as on the road, Robinson continues to grow as a guitarist alongside guitarist Neal Casal. "I look at music as a conversation and Neal's a very eloquent speaker on guitar and I'm just trying to keep the conversation interesting."
"I would say very early on in the recording — within the first two days," says Robinson when asked about the moment he realized two albums would emerge. "Thom had encouraged us to remain true to the arrangements we had been playing all year on the road. We inevitably had some longer pieces and felt that the performances were strong enough that we didn't want to edit them for any extraneous reasons."
"The Magic Door" contains seven songs: six originals — "Someday Past The Sunset", "Vibration & Light Suite", "Appaloosa", "Little Lizzie Mae", "Sorrows Of A Blue Eyed Liar" and "Wheel Don't Roll" — plus a cover of Hank Ballard's "Let's Go, Let's Go, Let's Go", a CRB setlist staple. The songs (written by Robinson, with Neal Casal on "Wheel Don't Roll" and Casal and Adam MacDougal on "Sorrows Of A Blue Eyed Liar") are all free flowing and some lengthy, with "Vibration & Light Suite" clocking in at 13:56. This is music that is in no hurry to reach its destination but firmly knows where it is going and the speed at which it is traveling.
On the album as on the road, Robinson continues to grow as a guitarist alongside guitarist Neal Casal. "I look at music as a conversation and Neal's a very eloquent speaker on guitar and I'm just trying to keep the conversation interesting."
Three of the leading gear/technology companies for both musicians and consumers alike are returning with their successful "Metal Masters" clinic series. Partnering up with Guitar Center, "Metal Masters 4" will take place in New York City on September 7 at The Gramercy. Doors will open at 7:00 p.m. with the clinic starting at 8:00 p.m. "Metal Masters 4" is bringing back some of the classic "Metal Masters" while adding a few new members to the list. As always, fans can expect some surprise appearances and unforgettable performances. "Metal Masters 4" will be comprised of Philip Anselmo (DOWN, ex-PANTERA), Kerry King (SLAYER), Dave Lombardo (SLAYER), Scott Ian (ANTHRAX), Charlie Benante (ANTHRAX), Frank Bello (ANTHRAX) and newly added masters Billy Sheehan (MR. BIG, DAVID LEE ROTH) and Gary Holt (EXODUS, SLAYER).
If the still-circulating buzz from "Metal Masters 3" is any indication, "Metal Masters 4" will not disappoint anyone who is lucky enough to see it. "Metal Masters 3", which took place at the Key Club in Los Angeles, featured the "Metal Masters" demonstrating their personal techniques and styles used to create the music that millions bang their heads to every day. The highlight of the event came when vocalist and now returning "Metal Master" Philip Anselmo jumped onstage to perform SLAYER fan favorites "Angel Of Death" and "Raining Blood" before launching into five songs from the PANTERA classic album "Vulgar Display Of Power". Anselmo and the "Metal Masters" comprised of David Ellefson (MEGADETH), Chris Broderick (MEGADETH), Kerry King (SLAYER), Dave Lombardo (SLAYER), Charlie Benante (ANTHRAX), Frank Bello (ANTHRAX) and Mike Portnoy (ADRENALINE MOB, FLYING COLORS), blazed through "Mouth For War", "A New Level", "Walk", "Fucking Hostile" and "This Love". Geezer Butler, of the legendary BLACK SABBATH, joined all of the "Metal Masters" on stage for the finale of "Hole In The Sky".
"We're extremely excited to be bringing the Metal Masters series back home to the East Coast with our most diverse and talented lineup to date," says Mark Menghi, Samson's Director of Marketing. "I say it every time and this time will be no different, but 'Metal Masters 4' is going to be the best one yet..."
Tickets are available for $20 (first come, first served) at the Gramercy Theatre's box office and online at Ticketmaster.com.
If the still-circulating buzz from "Metal Masters 3" is any indication, "Metal Masters 4" will not disappoint anyone who is lucky enough to see it. "Metal Masters 3", which took place at the Key Club in Los Angeles, featured the "Metal Masters" demonstrating their personal techniques and styles used to create the music that millions bang their heads to every day. The highlight of the event came when vocalist and now returning "Metal Master" Philip Anselmo jumped onstage to perform SLAYER fan favorites "Angel Of Death" and "Raining Blood" before launching into five songs from the PANTERA classic album "Vulgar Display Of Power". Anselmo and the "Metal Masters" comprised of David Ellefson (MEGADETH), Chris Broderick (MEGADETH), Kerry King (SLAYER), Dave Lombardo (SLAYER), Charlie Benante (ANTHRAX), Frank Bello (ANTHRAX) and Mike Portnoy (ADRENALINE MOB, FLYING COLORS), blazed through "Mouth For War", "A New Level", "Walk", "Fucking Hostile" and "This Love". Geezer Butler, of the legendary BLACK SABBATH, joined all of the "Metal Masters" on stage for the finale of "Hole In The Sky".
"We're extremely excited to be bringing the Metal Masters series back home to the East Coast with our most diverse and talented lineup to date," says Mark Menghi, Samson's Director of Marketing. "I say it every time and this time will be no different, but 'Metal Masters 4' is going to be the best one yet..."
Tickets are available for $20 (first come, first served) at the Gramercy Theatre's box office and online at Ticketmaster.com.
http://www.blabbermouth.net/soulflypremiere/mmasters4.jpg
Rick Wakeman, the English keyboard player, composer and songwriter best known as the former keyboardist in the progressive rock band YES, has released the following statement regarding the passing of former DEEP PURPLE/WHITESNAKE keyboardist Jon Lord:
"I first became aware of Jon Lord in the mid-Sixties when 'Hush' was released and I bought the album 'Shades Of Deep Purple', which was an album way ahead of its time. For obvious reasons, I paid special attention to the organ style and sound as it was quite different from how other Hammond players were using the instrument. I became a genuine admirer and fan of Jon that day and remained so with everything he did.
"We became real friends just a few years ago, although we had met on numerous occasions prior to that. We did talks together at music conservatories, we met for lunch and most importantly made music together. We wrote a piece 12 months ago for the Sunflower Jam at the Royal Albert Hall. We wrote this piece together at John Henry's rehearsal studios in London and it was so easy because we had such different styles and because Jon was concentrating heavily on the Hammond and I on synthesizers, the blend was quite magical. The piece was performed just the once and I am told was filmed, although I have never seen the footage.
"We sat in the dressing room which we shared at the Royal Albert Hall and made plans to do an album together. We were both utterly convinced that we could come up with something very special as our styles blended so well together. Our love of classical music and also working that style within that of rock music also completed the bond. We arranged to meet up later that month.
"One week before we were due to meet, Jon called me with the news he was ill. He was very positive and actually said he'd never felt better in his life and so he would beat it however long it took and so to bear with our project which went on hold.
"We spoke a couple of times after that and the last message I got was that he was responding well to his treatment. The news [yesterday] has hurt me like no other loss of a musician I have known. I can only thank him for the legacy he has left us all with his great music, great vision and for his kindness as he was one of the most gentle and kind persons I have ever had the pleasure of being able to call my friend.
"My heart goes out to Vickie, his wife, and all his family."
Jon Lord died yesterday (Monday, July 16) in a U.K. hospital at the age of 71. He suffered a fatal pulmonary embolism at the London Clinic after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Jon was "surrounded by his loving family," a message on his official web site said.
In addition to DEEP PURPLE, Lord played in WHITESNAKE — the band led by ex-PURPLE singer David Coverdale — from 1978 to 1984, having appeared on the albums "Trouble", "Lovehunter", "Ready An' Willing", "Come An' Get It", "Saints & Sinners" and "Slide It In".
Jon Lord is survived by his wife Vickie and two daughters — Amy and Sara.
"I first became aware of Jon Lord in the mid-Sixties when 'Hush' was released and I bought the album 'Shades Of Deep Purple', which was an album way ahead of its time. For obvious reasons, I paid special attention to the organ style and sound as it was quite different from how other Hammond players were using the instrument. I became a genuine admirer and fan of Jon that day and remained so with everything he did.
"We became real friends just a few years ago, although we had met on numerous occasions prior to that. We did talks together at music conservatories, we met for lunch and most importantly made music together. We wrote a piece 12 months ago for the Sunflower Jam at the Royal Albert Hall. We wrote this piece together at John Henry's rehearsal studios in London and it was so easy because we had such different styles and because Jon was concentrating heavily on the Hammond and I on synthesizers, the blend was quite magical. The piece was performed just the once and I am told was filmed, although I have never seen the footage.
"We sat in the dressing room which we shared at the Royal Albert Hall and made plans to do an album together. We were both utterly convinced that we could come up with something very special as our styles blended so well together. Our love of classical music and also working that style within that of rock music also completed the bond. We arranged to meet up later that month.
"One week before we were due to meet, Jon called me with the news he was ill. He was very positive and actually said he'd never felt better in his life and so he would beat it however long it took and so to bear with our project which went on hold.
"We spoke a couple of times after that and the last message I got was that he was responding well to his treatment. The news [yesterday] has hurt me like no other loss of a musician I have known. I can only thank him for the legacy he has left us all with his great music, great vision and for his kindness as he was one of the most gentle and kind persons I have ever had the pleasure of being able to call my friend.
"My heart goes out to Vickie, his wife, and all his family."
Jon Lord died yesterday (Monday, July 16) in a U.K. hospital at the age of 71. He suffered a fatal pulmonary embolism at the London Clinic after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Jon was "surrounded by his loving family," a message on his official web site said.
In addition to DEEP PURPLE, Lord played in WHITESNAKE — the band led by ex-PURPLE singer David Coverdale — from 1978 to 1984, having appeared on the albums "Trouble", "Lovehunter", "Ready An' Willing", "Come An' Get It", "Saints & Sinners" and "Slide It In".
Jon Lord is survived by his wife Vickie and two daughters — Amy and Sara.
DEEP PURPLE singer Ian Gillan (pictured below) spoke to the U.K. digital radio station Planet Rock yesterday (Monday, July 16) about the passing of former DEEP PURPLE/WHITESNAKE keyboardist Jon Lord. You can listen to a snippet of the chat using the SoundCloud player below.
"He was just an amazing character and, I suppose, the godfather of DEEP PURPLE, and we all looked up to him with tremendous admiration," Ian said. "If there was such a thing as a typical English gentleman in rock music, then it was Jon Lord. We've all been touched by Jon one way or another — anyone who's involved in music, not only the fans, but also behind the scenes. We all know Jon for the inspiration and the incredible talent that he was. I could speak for hours about what he's given us. We shall carry his memory forward and his music, of course."
Jon Lord died yesterday (Monday, July 16) in a U.K. hospital at the age of 71. He suffered a fatal pulmonary embolism at the London Clinic after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Jon was "surrounded by his loving family," a message on his official web site said.
In addition to DEEP PURPLE, Lord played in WHITESNAKE — the band led by ex-PURPLE singer David Coverdale — from 1978 to 1984, having appeared on the albums "Trouble", "Lovehunter", "Ready An' Willing", "Come An' Get It", "Saints & Sinners" and "Slide It In".
Jon Lord is survived by his wife Vickie and two daughters — Amy and Sara.
"He was just an amazing character and, I suppose, the godfather of DEEP PURPLE, and we all looked up to him with tremendous admiration," Ian said. "If there was such a thing as a typical English gentleman in rock music, then it was Jon Lord. We've all been touched by Jon one way or another — anyone who's involved in music, not only the fans, but also behind the scenes. We all know Jon for the inspiration and the incredible talent that he was. I could speak for hours about what he's given us. We shall carry his memory forward and his music, of course."
Jon Lord died yesterday (Monday, July 16) in a U.K. hospital at the age of 71. He suffered a fatal pulmonary embolism at the London Clinic after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Jon was "surrounded by his loving family," a message on his official web site said.
In addition to DEEP PURPLE, Lord played in WHITESNAKE — the band led by ex-PURPLE singer David Coverdale — from 1978 to 1984, having appeared on the albums "Trouble", "Lovehunter", "Ready An' Willing", "Come An' Get It", "Saints & Sinners" and "Slide It In".
Jon Lord is survived by his wife Vickie and two daughters — Amy and Sara.
DEEP PURPLE bassist Roger Glover (pictured below) has released the following statement regarding the passing of former PURPLE keyboardist Jon Lord:
"It's unthinkable that Jon is gone. My thoughts are for his wife Vicky and all his children and family at this sad moment in their lives. I wish them all strength. A great sadness and sense of loss hangs over me. Not only has the music world lost a fantastic musician but a gentleman of the finest order. He was a giant in my life, a great friend, a fellow traveler, a teacher, not only of music, but of life. I am devastated at his passing."
Jon Lord died on Monday (July 16) at age 71 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Lord, who was known for his keyboard virtuosity and his reinvention of the Hammond B-3 organ sound, co-wrote such PURPLE classics as "Smoke On The Water" and "Child In Time", among others. Lord and drummer Ian Paice were the only original members to last through the band's initial run from 1968 to 1976. He was on board for their 1984 reunion and stayed on through to his 2002 retirement from the band, after which he's worked primarily in the classical field.
Over the course of his career, Lord also worked with the ARTWOODS, FLOWER POT MEN, PAICE, ASHTON AND LORD, WHITESNAKE and good friend and neighbor, George Harrison.
"It's unthinkable that Jon is gone. My thoughts are for his wife Vicky and all his children and family at this sad moment in their lives. I wish them all strength. A great sadness and sense of loss hangs over me. Not only has the music world lost a fantastic musician but a gentleman of the finest order. He was a giant in my life, a great friend, a fellow traveler, a teacher, not only of music, but of life. I am devastated at his passing."
Jon Lord died on Monday (July 16) at age 71 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Lord, who was known for his keyboard virtuosity and his reinvention of the Hammond B-3 organ sound, co-wrote such PURPLE classics as "Smoke On The Water" and "Child In Time", among others. Lord and drummer Ian Paice were the only original members to last through the band's initial run from 1968 to 1976. He was on board for their 1984 reunion and stayed on through to his 2002 retirement from the band, after which he's worked primarily in the classical field.
Over the course of his career, Lord also worked with the ARTWOODS, FLOWER POT MEN, PAICE, ASHTON AND LORD, WHITESNAKE and good friend and neighbor, George Harrison.
Former DEEP PURPLE and RAINBOW guitarist Ritchie Blackmore has released the following statement regarding the passing of former PURPLE keyboardist Jon Lord:
"Jon was not only a great musician, he was my favorite dinner companion.
"We are all deeply saddened. We knew he was sick but the word was that he was recovering and doing much better. This news came as a complete shock.
"Without Jon there would be no DEEP PURPLE. He lives on in our hearts and memories."
Jon Lord died on Monday (July 16) at age 71 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Lord, who was known for his keyboard virtuosity and his reinvention of the Hammond B-3 organ sound, co-wrote such PURPLE classics as "Smoke On The Water" and "Child In Time", among others. Lord and drummer Ian Paice were the only original members to last through the band's initial run from 1968 to 1976. He was on board for their 1984 reunion and stayed on through to his 2002 retirement from the band, after which he's worked primarily in the classical field.
Over the course of his career, Lord also worked with the ARTWOODS, FLOWER POT MEN, PAICE, ASHTON AND LORD, WHITESNAKE and good friend and neighbor, George Harrison.
"Jon was not only a great musician, he was my favorite dinner companion.
"We are all deeply saddened. We knew he was sick but the word was that he was recovering and doing much better. This news came as a complete shock.
"Without Jon there would be no DEEP PURPLE. He lives on in our hearts and memories."
Jon Lord died on Monday (July 16) at age 71 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Lord, who was known for his keyboard virtuosity and his reinvention of the Hammond B-3 organ sound, co-wrote such PURPLE classics as "Smoke On The Water" and "Child In Time", among others. Lord and drummer Ian Paice were the only original members to last through the band's initial run from 1968 to 1976. He was on board for their 1984 reunion and stayed on through to his 2002 retirement from the band, after which he's worked primarily in the classical field.
Over the course of his career, Lord also worked with the ARTWOODS, FLOWER POT MEN, PAICE, ASHTON AND LORD, WHITESNAKE and good friend and neighbor, George Harrison.
BLACK SABBATH guitarist Tony Iommi has released the following statement regarding the passing of former DEEP PURPLE keyboardist Jon Lord:
"I was so shocked and saddened to hear the news of Jon's passing.
"Jon was not only a magnificent keyboard player and musician but a wonderful human being and a true gentleman. I'm honored to have had the opportunity to play together with him.
"We've lost a true legend but his music will live on in all of our hearts.
"My deepest thoughts go out to his family.
"R.I.P., Jon, my friend."
Jon Lord died on Monday (July 16) at age 71 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Lord, who was known for his keyboard virtuosity and his reinvention of the Hammond B-3 organ sound, co-wrote such PURPLE classics as "Smoke On The Water" and "Child In Time", among others. Lord and drummer Ian Paice were the only original members to last through the band's initial run from 1968 to 1976. He was on board for their 1984 reunion and stayed on through to his 2002 retirement from the band, after which he's worked primarily in the classical field.
Over the course of his career, Lord also worked with the ARTWOODS, FLOWER POT MEN, PAICE, ASHTON AND LORD, WHITESNAKE and good friend and neighbor, George Harrison.
"I was so shocked and saddened to hear the news of Jon's passing.
"Jon was not only a magnificent keyboard player and musician but a wonderful human being and a true gentleman. I'm honored to have had the opportunity to play together with him.
"We've lost a true legend but his music will live on in all of our hearts.
"My deepest thoughts go out to his family.
"R.I.P., Jon, my friend."
Jon Lord died on Monday (July 16) at age 71 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Lord, who was known for his keyboard virtuosity and his reinvention of the Hammond B-3 organ sound, co-wrote such PURPLE classics as "Smoke On The Water" and "Child In Time", among others. Lord and drummer Ian Paice were the only original members to last through the band's initial run from 1968 to 1976. He was on board for their 1984 reunion and stayed on through to his 2002 retirement from the band, after which he's worked primarily in the classical field.
Over the course of his career, Lord also worked with the ARTWOODS, FLOWER POT MEN, PAICE, ASHTON AND LORD, WHITESNAKE and good friend and neighbor, George Harrison.
BLACK SABBATH drummer Bill Ward (pictured below) has released the following statement regarding the passing of former DEEP PURPLE keyboardist Jon Lord:
"My wife and I wish to respectfully send out condolences to the Lord family. News of the recent passing of Jon Lord has been met with sadness in our house. Reflecting upon his keyboard sounds, I must endorse how much he brought in originality and vision to the defining edge of hard rock. He is well-proven as a part of rock's historical journey and will not be forgotten.
"Thank you, Jon Lord. Rest in peace."
"My wife and I wish to respectfully send out condolences to the Lord family. News of the recent passing of Jon Lord has been met with sadness in our house. Reflecting upon his keyboard sounds, I must endorse how much he brought in originality and vision to the defining edge of hard rock. He is well-proven as a part of rock's historical journey and will not be forgotten.
"Thank you, Jon Lord. Rest in peace."
Renowned Scottish singer Doogie White (pictured below), who has worked with such bands as RAINBOW, CORNERSTONE, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, MIDNIGHT BLUE, PRAYING MANTIS and TANK, has released the following statement regarding the passing of former DEEP PURPLE keyboardist Jon Lord:
"Dear Jon, thank you. Thank you for being the very best, the most honourable, the most inviting. The finest host (Ritchie [Blackmore] often told me that you were his greatest and favourite dinner guest). I remember you telling me off for buying a round of drinks in Luxembourg. You paid anyway. You were the greatest of storytellers.
"But really, Jon, thank you for not only the most dynamic music I ever heard, that changed my world and many others, but for the most beautiful musical moments I ever had, for three — yes! only three — but three of the most outstanding and joyous concerts I have ever had the pleasure to be part of. You gave me a shot and how you both with Tarquin mocked the H/H Tartan suit I had bought for the occasion.
"There are those who have known you much longer and worked with you much harder. But dear Jon, I will miss you. '..the Poet and the Pilgrim.'
"Much love to the Lord family."
Jon Lord died on Monday (July 16) at age 71 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Lord, who was known for his keyboard virtuosity and his reinvention of the Hammond B-3 organ sound, co-wrote such PURPLE classics as "Smoke On The Water" and "Child In Time", among others. Lord and drummer Ian Paice were the only original members to last through the band's initial run from 1968 to 1976. He was on board for their 1984 reunion and stayed on through to his 2002 retirement from the band, after which he's worked primarily in the classical field.
Over the course of his career, Lord also worked with the ARTWOODS, FLOWER POT MEN, PAICE, ASHTON AND LORD, WHITESNAKE and good friend and neighbor, George Harrison.
"Dear Jon, thank you. Thank you for being the very best, the most honourable, the most inviting. The finest host (Ritchie [Blackmore] often told me that you were his greatest and favourite dinner guest). I remember you telling me off for buying a round of drinks in Luxembourg. You paid anyway. You were the greatest of storytellers.
"But really, Jon, thank you for not only the most dynamic music I ever heard, that changed my world and many others, but for the most beautiful musical moments I ever had, for three — yes! only three — but three of the most outstanding and joyous concerts I have ever had the pleasure to be part of. You gave me a shot and how you both with Tarquin mocked the H/H Tartan suit I had bought for the occasion.
"There are those who have known you much longer and worked with you much harder. But dear Jon, I will miss you. '..the Poet and the Pilgrim.'
"Much love to the Lord family."
Jon Lord died on Monday (July 16) at age 71 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Lord, who was known for his keyboard virtuosity and his reinvention of the Hammond B-3 organ sound, co-wrote such PURPLE classics as "Smoke On The Water" and "Child In Time", among others. Lord and drummer Ian Paice were the only original members to last through the band's initial run from 1968 to 1976. He was on board for their 1984 reunion and stayed on through to his 2002 retirement from the band, after which he's worked primarily in the classical field.
Over the course of his career, Lord also worked with the ARTWOODS, FLOWER POT MEN, PAICE, ASHTON AND LORD, WHITESNAKE and good friend and neighbor, George Harrison.
Bassist Michael Anthony (CHICKENFOOT, VAN HALEN) has released the following statement regarding the passing of former DEEP PURPLE keyboardist Jon Lord:
"I am deeply saddened to hear of Jon Lord's passing. Growing up listening to music, Jon Lord and DEEP PURPLE had one of the biggest influences on me both vocally and musically. The first DEEP PURPLE album I listened to was 'In Rock'. The keyboards totally blew me away, and continued to do so on every one of their albums there after!! A huge piece of rock history for me is now gone.
"R.I.P., Jon. You were the best. My condolences go out to your family."
"I am deeply saddened to hear of Jon Lord's passing. Growing up listening to music, Jon Lord and DEEP PURPLE had one of the biggest influences on me both vocally and musically. The first DEEP PURPLE album I listened to was 'In Rock'. The keyboards totally blew me away, and continued to do so on every one of their albums there after!! A huge piece of rock history for me is now gone.
"R.I.P., Jon. You were the best. My condolences go out to your family."
DEEP PURPLE guitarist Steve Morse (pictured below) has released the following statement regarding the passing of former DEEP PURPLE/WHITESNAKE keyboardist Jon Lord:
"Jon just died. I'm shocked and don't know what to do, so I'm going to try to tell you a little about Jon.
"Jon was the powerhouse keyboard player that brought rock and classical directly together many times. The first was his timeless organ solo on 'Highway Star'. The next was his 'Concerto For Band And Orchestra'. I was able to perform with the whole band as it was played at Albert Hall before we toured extensively with it. Just weeks ago, I was able to play on a studio recording of Jon's concerto and share some heartfelt thoughts and words with him.
"Jon was the guy that would stop us from giving up on an idea in songwriting because it wasn't immediately obvious. I remember him encouraging me in the studio to keep doing what I was doing as I played around with an idea that I was intrigued with. After writing something as amazing as his concerto, he still had the imagination to hear ideas on top of anything I suggested. He always had a regal, gentlemanly manner. Like any of us, he could get annoyed, but he would only show it with his wry and dry wit. Mostly, he was upbeat and a pleasure for anybody to be around. His humor was right up my alley, with us exchanging ridiculous thoughts like, 'If Brenda Lee married Tommy Lee, her new name would be Brenda Lee...' Or having him finish the tune when an announcement at an airport would start with several musical notes to get your attention.
"It's hard to give anecdotes that convey an ease that somebody could give you, but he sure had that ability.
"We all love people that will pay attention to our kids, and years ago he charmed my (then) 5-year-old son Kevin with a Donald Duck imitation even while he was being hurried to get out of the dressing room and go to the green room for after show greetings.
"Jon retired from the endless DEEP PURPLE tour schedule, but continued to do appearances with original material and performances of his concerto. I knew he missed the band he helped start, but at the same time couldn't stand the relentless travel. From time to time, we would see him on tour, and he would sit in with us. The last time we played, less than a year ago, at the Sunflower Jam at Royal Albert Hall, he had just come offstage from performing with Rick Wakeman. Later I talked with him and his wife about how strange it felt to look around at the keyboards and not see him there at Albert Hall. We promised to do something together. Soon thereafter, we all learned of his battle with pancreatic cancer. I kept hearing hopeful, positive reports that they might be making progress, but this sudden death caught me totally unaware. I thought we would meet and do a recording project in the future when he recovered from the chemotherapy. Well, we sort of did, but I had to record it and send it to him, as we were in different countries.
"If you have friends, family, especially kids, don't ever miss a chance to do or say something special.... or simply appreciate the fact that they are there. One day, they won't be."
Jon Lord died yesterday (Monday, July 16) in a U.K. hospital at the age of 71. He suffered a fatal pulmonary embolism at the London Clinic after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Jon was "surrounded by his loving family," a message on his official web site said.
In addition to DEEP PURPLE, Lord played in WHITESNAKE — the band led by ex-PURPLE singer David Coverdale — from 1978 to 1984, having appeared on the albums "Trouble", "Lovehunter", "Ready An' Willing", "Come An' Get It", "Saints & Sinners" and "Slide It In".
Jon Lord is survived by his wife Vickie and two daughters — Amy and Sara.
"Jon just died. I'm shocked and don't know what to do, so I'm going to try to tell you a little about Jon.
"Jon was the powerhouse keyboard player that brought rock and classical directly together many times. The first was his timeless organ solo on 'Highway Star'. The next was his 'Concerto For Band And Orchestra'. I was able to perform with the whole band as it was played at Albert Hall before we toured extensively with it. Just weeks ago, I was able to play on a studio recording of Jon's concerto and share some heartfelt thoughts and words with him.
"Jon was the guy that would stop us from giving up on an idea in songwriting because it wasn't immediately obvious. I remember him encouraging me in the studio to keep doing what I was doing as I played around with an idea that I was intrigued with. After writing something as amazing as his concerto, he still had the imagination to hear ideas on top of anything I suggested. He always had a regal, gentlemanly manner. Like any of us, he could get annoyed, but he would only show it with his wry and dry wit. Mostly, he was upbeat and a pleasure for anybody to be around. His humor was right up my alley, with us exchanging ridiculous thoughts like, 'If Brenda Lee married Tommy Lee, her new name would be Brenda Lee...' Or having him finish the tune when an announcement at an airport would start with several musical notes to get your attention.
"It's hard to give anecdotes that convey an ease that somebody could give you, but he sure had that ability.
"We all love people that will pay attention to our kids, and years ago he charmed my (then) 5-year-old son Kevin with a Donald Duck imitation even while he was being hurried to get out of the dressing room and go to the green room for after show greetings.
"Jon retired from the endless DEEP PURPLE tour schedule, but continued to do appearances with original material and performances of his concerto. I knew he missed the band he helped start, but at the same time couldn't stand the relentless travel. From time to time, we would see him on tour, and he would sit in with us. The last time we played, less than a year ago, at the Sunflower Jam at Royal Albert Hall, he had just come offstage from performing with Rick Wakeman. Later I talked with him and his wife about how strange it felt to look around at the keyboards and not see him there at Albert Hall. We promised to do something together. Soon thereafter, we all learned of his battle with pancreatic cancer. I kept hearing hopeful, positive reports that they might be making progress, but this sudden death caught me totally unaware. I thought we would meet and do a recording project in the future when he recovered from the chemotherapy. Well, we sort of did, but I had to record it and send it to him, as we were in different countries.
"If you have friends, family, especially kids, don't ever miss a chance to do or say something special.... or simply appreciate the fact that they are there. One day, they won't be."
Jon Lord died yesterday (Monday, July 16) in a U.K. hospital at the age of 71. He suffered a fatal pulmonary embolism at the London Clinic after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Jon was "surrounded by his loving family," a message on his official web site said.
In addition to DEEP PURPLE, Lord played in WHITESNAKE — the band led by ex-PURPLE singer David Coverdale — from 1978 to 1984, having appeared on the albums "Trouble", "Lovehunter", "Ready An' Willing", "Come An' Get It", "Saints & Sinners" and "Slide It In".
Jon Lord is survived by his wife Vickie and two daughters — Amy and Sara.
METALLICA drummer Lars Ulrich (pictured below) has released the following statement regarding the passing of former DEEP PURPLE/WHITESNAKE keyboardist Jon Lord:
"Ever since my father took me to see them in 1973 in Copenhagen, at the impressionable age of 9, DEEP PURPLE has been the most constant, continuous and inspiring musical presence in my life. They have meant more to me than any other band in existence, and have had an enormous part in shaping who I am. So obviously I'm beyond bummed, saddened and devastated by [yesterday's] news of the untimely passing of keyboardist Jon Lord.
"We can all be guilty of lightly throwing adjectives like 'unique,' 'one-of-a-kind' and 'pioneering' around when we want to describe our heroes and the people who've moved us, but there are no more fitting words than those right now and there simply was no musician like Jon Lord in the history of hard rock. Nobody. Period.
"There was nobody that played like him. There was nobody that sounded like him. There was nobody that wrote like him. There was nobody that looked like him. There was nobody more articulate, gentlemanly, warm, or fucking cooler that ever played keyboards or got anywhere near a keyboard. What he did was all his own. Including obviously his unique sound. Whatever it was he did with that Hammond organ, the way the Leslie distorted what he was playing and pushed it to some unheard of place, the way he attacked it while he was throwing it around, and whatever the fuck else it was that was going down between Jon and 'The Beast,' as he called his organ, it was unlike anything before, during or after. That simple.
"DEEP PURPLE, of course, was also an entity all their own, always unpredictable, often impulsive, never repetitive and most of the time, otherworldly. I had the good fortune of seeing them three times in Copenhagen between '73 and '75, numerous times again on the reunion runs in '85 and '87. We even played a couple of gigs in Germany with them in the summer of '87 and, needless to say, every time was an experience that had a major impact on me. Seeing Jon on stage right playing the riffs, the colorings, the textures, the next level solos, intros, outros, blues bits, classical pieces and whatever else came into his head each night AND on top of that keeping up with Ritchie Blackmore song after song, night after night, was the sign of the master of his craft . . . the most accomplished, original and unique hard rock keyboardist that ever walked this planet.
"In 1992 when we played Munich on the 'Black Album' tour, Jon Lord and lead singer, Ian Gillan came down to the show and stood in the snake pit the whole time. I was in heaven. Performing in front of members of the band that had meant more to me than anything in my life was a dream come true. And when I got a signed note after the show that they had had to leave and get back to their milk and cookies and be ready for the recording sessions the next day, I was simply beyond psyched. My hero(es) in the fuckin snake pit.!!!!! 'Look, Mom, on top of the fuckin world!!'
"....Full circle for the impressionable 9 year old from KB Hallen in Copenhagen in February '73.
"Rest in peace, Jon, and THANK YOU for everything."
Jon Lord died yesterday (Monday, July 16) in a U.K. hospital at the age of 71. He suffered a fatal pulmonary embolism at the London Clinic after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Jon was "surrounded by his loving family," a message on his official web site said.
In addition to DEEP PURPLE, Lord played in WHITESNAKE — the band led by ex-PURPLE singer David Coverdale — from 1978 to 1984, having appeared on the albums "Trouble", "Lovehunter", "Ready An' Willing", "Come An' Get It", "Saints & Sinners" and "Slide It In".
Jon Lord is survived by his wife Vickie and two daughters — Amy and Sara.
"Ever since my father took me to see them in 1973 in Copenhagen, at the impressionable age of 9, DEEP PURPLE has been the most constant, continuous and inspiring musical presence in my life. They have meant more to me than any other band in existence, and have had an enormous part in shaping who I am. So obviously I'm beyond bummed, saddened and devastated by [yesterday's] news of the untimely passing of keyboardist Jon Lord.
"We can all be guilty of lightly throwing adjectives like 'unique,' 'one-of-a-kind' and 'pioneering' around when we want to describe our heroes and the people who've moved us, but there are no more fitting words than those right now and there simply was no musician like Jon Lord in the history of hard rock. Nobody. Period.
"There was nobody that played like him. There was nobody that sounded like him. There was nobody that wrote like him. There was nobody that looked like him. There was nobody more articulate, gentlemanly, warm, or fucking cooler that ever played keyboards or got anywhere near a keyboard. What he did was all his own. Including obviously his unique sound. Whatever it was he did with that Hammond organ, the way the Leslie distorted what he was playing and pushed it to some unheard of place, the way he attacked it while he was throwing it around, and whatever the fuck else it was that was going down between Jon and 'The Beast,' as he called his organ, it was unlike anything before, during or after. That simple.
"DEEP PURPLE, of course, was also an entity all their own, always unpredictable, often impulsive, never repetitive and most of the time, otherworldly. I had the good fortune of seeing them three times in Copenhagen between '73 and '75, numerous times again on the reunion runs in '85 and '87. We even played a couple of gigs in Germany with them in the summer of '87 and, needless to say, every time was an experience that had a major impact on me. Seeing Jon on stage right playing the riffs, the colorings, the textures, the next level solos, intros, outros, blues bits, classical pieces and whatever else came into his head each night AND on top of that keeping up with Ritchie Blackmore song after song, night after night, was the sign of the master of his craft . . . the most accomplished, original and unique hard rock keyboardist that ever walked this planet.
"In 1992 when we played Munich on the 'Black Album' tour, Jon Lord and lead singer, Ian Gillan came down to the show and stood in the snake pit the whole time. I was in heaven. Performing in front of members of the band that had meant more to me than anything in my life was a dream come true. And when I got a signed note after the show that they had had to leave and get back to their milk and cookies and be ready for the recording sessions the next day, I was simply beyond psyched. My hero(es) in the fuckin snake pit.!!!!! 'Look, Mom, on top of the fuckin world!!'
"....Full circle for the impressionable 9 year old from KB Hallen in Copenhagen in February '73.
"Rest in peace, Jon, and THANK YOU for everything."
Jon Lord died yesterday (Monday, July 16) in a U.K. hospital at the age of 71. He suffered a fatal pulmonary embolism at the London Clinic after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Jon was "surrounded by his loving family," a message on his official web site said.
In addition to DEEP PURPLE, Lord played in WHITESNAKE — the band led by ex-PURPLE singer David Coverdale — from 1978 to 1984, having appeared on the albums "Trouble", "Lovehunter", "Ready An' Willing", "Come An' Get It", "Saints & Sinners" and "Slide It In".
Jon Lord is survived by his wife Vickie and two daughters — Amy and Sara.
Drummer Jeremy Spencer (pictured below) of Las Vegas metallers FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH is one of a number of musicians who have come out in support of LAMB OF GOD frontman Randy Blythe, who is facing manslaughter charges in the Czech Republic.
Blythe, 41, is accused of causing the fatal injury that occurred at LAMB OF GOD's May 24, 2010 show in Prague. The singer allegedly either pushed or struck a 19-year-old fan named Daniel N. — a guitarist in a local metal band — and that person died almost a month later of bleeding in the brain.
Randy has been charged with causing "bodily harm of the fourth degree, resulting in the death of a fan" and faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
Speaking to Rustyn Rose of Metalholic.com, Spencer said, "I think it's really unfortunate [what happened]. From the video that I've seen, it doesn't really look like that would be something that would cause somebody to die. But I guess you really never know; none of us really know the facts. I just think it's a tragedy all the way around. I think for fans these days, especially after the 'Dimebag' Darrell incident, I just think don't [go up] on stage unless you're invited — I mean, that's the only time. Because everything changed after that day. I really feel for Randy, and I wish him the best, and I hope it gets worked out and he gets out and all that stuff. And I feel sympathy for the family of the victim, too, so it's really bad all the way around. These days, it's almost better to stay off the stage unless you're invited, I think. That's my take on it, anyway."
A number of other rockers have come to Randy's defense, with many of them citing the 2004 shooting death onstage of PANTERA guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott as the reason why musicians are so defensive nowadays about fans invading the stage.
DISTURBED drummer Mike Wengren told The Pulse Of Radio not along after Dimebag was shot that his death had cast a shadow over live performing. "I think one of the most scariest things is, you go up onstage, and there's this energy transfer between the band and the crowd, and you almost feel invincible. You feel very empowered. Never in a million years would anyone ever think something like that was even possible, and I think it just caught everyone off guard. It's pretty scary."
FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH bassist Chris Kael simply tweeted, "Everything changed on December 8, 2004. #stayoffthestage #FreeRandyBlythe," while ANTHRAX guitarist Scott Ian wrote, "It's complete and utter bullshit for him to be treated like a criminal for something he didn't do. Now fans can see firsthand why there's no stage diving anymore. Especially in the post-Darrell world we live in . . . Of course it's sad that this person died, it's a tragedy, but it's not Randy's fault."
Blythe, 41, is accused of causing the fatal injury that occurred at LAMB OF GOD's May 24, 2010 show in Prague. The singer allegedly either pushed or struck a 19-year-old fan named Daniel N. — a guitarist in a local metal band — and that person died almost a month later of bleeding in the brain.
Randy has been charged with causing "bodily harm of the fourth degree, resulting in the death of a fan" and faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
Speaking to Rustyn Rose of Metalholic.com, Spencer said, "I think it's really unfortunate [what happened]. From the video that I've seen, it doesn't really look like that would be something that would cause somebody to die. But I guess you really never know; none of us really know the facts. I just think it's a tragedy all the way around. I think for fans these days, especially after the 'Dimebag' Darrell incident, I just think don't [go up] on stage unless you're invited — I mean, that's the only time. Because everything changed after that day. I really feel for Randy, and I wish him the best, and I hope it gets worked out and he gets out and all that stuff. And I feel sympathy for the family of the victim, too, so it's really bad all the way around. These days, it's almost better to stay off the stage unless you're invited, I think. That's my take on it, anyway."
A number of other rockers have come to Randy's defense, with many of them citing the 2004 shooting death onstage of PANTERA guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott as the reason why musicians are so defensive nowadays about fans invading the stage.
DISTURBED drummer Mike Wengren told The Pulse Of Radio not along after Dimebag was shot that his death had cast a shadow over live performing. "I think one of the most scariest things is, you go up onstage, and there's this energy transfer between the band and the crowd, and you almost feel invincible. You feel very empowered. Never in a million years would anyone ever think something like that was even possible, and I think it just caught everyone off guard. It's pretty scary."
FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH bassist Chris Kael simply tweeted, "Everything changed on December 8, 2004. #stayoffthestage #FreeRandyBlythe," while ANTHRAX guitarist Scott Ian wrote, "It's complete and utter bullshit for him to be treated like a criminal for something he didn't do. Now fans can see firsthand why there's no stage diving anymore. Especially in the post-Darrell world we live in . . . Of course it's sad that this person died, it's a tragedy, but it's not Randy's fault."
The book "Once Upon A Rock Star: Backstage Passes In The Heavy Metal Eighties - Big Hair, Bad Boys (And One Bad Girl)" was officially released on July 17 by Arbor Oak Books, an imprint of Concierge Marketing.
"Once Upon A Rock Star" is author Rita Rae Roxx's '80s sex-and-tell book about all the heavy metal rock icons she met who toured through Omaha, Nebraska back in the day and whom she followed to L.A., even while attending Omaha's Central High School.
For anyone disappointed with the movie "Rock Of Ages", this is the real deal, the whole decade of rock fan adoration for the boys in the bands who played the Omaha Civic, from one little Chiquita from Omaha and her awesome entourage who had backstage access on the tour buses and after-show hotel hookups.
Rita lived what Blurt magazine calls an "ab-f***ing-fab life," and it's all '80s, all 200+ pages, including her vintage collection of backstage passes and tickets, plus 60 never-before-seen personal backstage photos of Rockin' Rita with all the big-name legends, such as Eddie Van Halen, Steven Tyler, Bret Michaels, Nikki Sixx, Peter Wolf, and plenty more.
Rockin' Rita and her sexy entourage were ultra-fans who rocked the boys in the bands backstage and between the covers when the heavy metal rockers and the glam "chicks with dicks" rolled into town in their tour buses. With her own outrageously high hair and edgy original clothing designs, Rita never missed an opportunity to get the coveted backstage passes that led to dressing room parties and hotel hook-ups.
This is a sex-and-tell story about her obsession for sex and drugs with rock stars. Rita reveals her flirtatious romps and hard rock tales with the bad boys of '80s heavy metal in her legend-filled story.
Check out a preview chapter at this location.
For more information, visit OnceUponARockStarBook.com.
"Once Upon A Rock Star" is author Rita Rae Roxx's '80s sex-and-tell book about all the heavy metal rock icons she met who toured through Omaha, Nebraska back in the day and whom she followed to L.A., even while attending Omaha's Central High School.
For anyone disappointed with the movie "Rock Of Ages", this is the real deal, the whole decade of rock fan adoration for the boys in the bands who played the Omaha Civic, from one little Chiquita from Omaha and her awesome entourage who had backstage access on the tour buses and after-show hotel hookups.
Rita lived what Blurt magazine calls an "ab-f***ing-fab life," and it's all '80s, all 200+ pages, including her vintage collection of backstage passes and tickets, plus 60 never-before-seen personal backstage photos of Rockin' Rita with all the big-name legends, such as Eddie Van Halen, Steven Tyler, Bret Michaels, Nikki Sixx, Peter Wolf, and plenty more.
Rockin' Rita and her sexy entourage were ultra-fans who rocked the boys in the bands backstage and between the covers when the heavy metal rockers and the glam "chicks with dicks" rolled into town in their tour buses. With her own outrageously high hair and edgy original clothing designs, Rita never missed an opportunity to get the coveted backstage passes that led to dressing room parties and hotel hook-ups.
This is a sex-and-tell story about her obsession for sex and drugs with rock stars. Rita reveals her flirtatious romps and hard rock tales with the bad boys of '80s heavy metal in her legend-filled story.
Check out a preview chapter at this location.
For more information, visit OnceUponARockStarBook.com.
Mark Uricheck of The Musician's Voice recently conducted an interview with former L.A. GUNS and current TRACII GUNS' LEAGUE OF GENTLEMEN guitarist Tracii Guns. You can now stream the entire chat using the audio player below.
When asked about the current status of his version of L.A. GUNS, which has featured several different lead vocalists over the course of the last few years, Tracii said, "I think I've kind of done it to death, I think the band has done itself to death. Without real room to grow and to move and to be able to exceed the fan base's expectations — they really love their old L.A. GUNS, and I get it, but I'm older and I continue to study music and recording and a lot of different things. L.A. GUNS is… It is what it is. It's L.A. GUNS. If there ever was an opportunity to do L.A. GUNS for a higher reason, for a bigger reason, I would certainly do it. But I'm kind of over it. I mean, listen, we play a lot of L.A. GUNS songs in our [TRACII GUNS' LEAGUE OF GENTLEMEN's] live set — people expect to hear those from me — but being in L.A. GUNS is just not worth the trouble, with two different versions of the band running around, and neither band does the other band any good, and I think it's disappointing for the fans, ultimately. You're dealing with people who have supported you and your music for, God, I don't know… over 20 years… at least over 20 years. I would like to be able to go into each gig with a clear conscience, put out records with a clear conscience and know that I'm doing my best and I'm not trying to pull the wool over anybody's eyes."
The Tracii Guns version of L.A. GUNS completed a European headlining tour in March.
The lineup for the trek was as follows:
Tracii Guns - Guitar
Scott Foster Harris - Vocals
Eric Grossman - Bass
Doni Gray - Drums
L.A. GUNS in December parted ways with Dilana Robichaux a mere 71 days after announcing the former "Rock Star: Supernova" reality-TV show contestant as its new singer.
Tracii started L.A. GUNS while still in high school in 1982. The original singer, Michael Jagosz, was replaced by Axl Rose. Signed to PolyGram in '87, the band's self-titled debut, with Phil Lewis replacing Rose, sold over a million copies, as did "Cocked and Loaded" (1989) and "Hollywood Vampires" (1991).
Tracii Guns' L.A. GUNS is not to be confused with the Phil Lewis-led version of the group, which is continuing to record and perform under the L.A. GUNS moniker.
TRACII GUNS' LEAGUE OF GENTLEMEN is described as "a rock and roll band leaning heavy into 1970s British and American blues-based hard rock."
Interview (audio):
When asked about the current status of his version of L.A. GUNS, which has featured several different lead vocalists over the course of the last few years, Tracii said, "I think I've kind of done it to death, I think the band has done itself to death. Without real room to grow and to move and to be able to exceed the fan base's expectations — they really love their old L.A. GUNS, and I get it, but I'm older and I continue to study music and recording and a lot of different things. L.A. GUNS is… It is what it is. It's L.A. GUNS. If there ever was an opportunity to do L.A. GUNS for a higher reason, for a bigger reason, I would certainly do it. But I'm kind of over it. I mean, listen, we play a lot of L.A. GUNS songs in our [TRACII GUNS' LEAGUE OF GENTLEMEN's] live set — people expect to hear those from me — but being in L.A. GUNS is just not worth the trouble, with two different versions of the band running around, and neither band does the other band any good, and I think it's disappointing for the fans, ultimately. You're dealing with people who have supported you and your music for, God, I don't know… over 20 years… at least over 20 years. I would like to be able to go into each gig with a clear conscience, put out records with a clear conscience and know that I'm doing my best and I'm not trying to pull the wool over anybody's eyes."
The Tracii Guns version of L.A. GUNS completed a European headlining tour in March.
The lineup for the trek was as follows:
Tracii Guns - Guitar
Scott Foster Harris - Vocals
Eric Grossman - Bass
Doni Gray - Drums
L.A. GUNS in December parted ways with Dilana Robichaux a mere 71 days after announcing the former "Rock Star: Supernova" reality-TV show contestant as its new singer.
Tracii started L.A. GUNS while still in high school in 1982. The original singer, Michael Jagosz, was replaced by Axl Rose. Signed to PolyGram in '87, the band's self-titled debut, with Phil Lewis replacing Rose, sold over a million copies, as did "Cocked and Loaded" (1989) and "Hollywood Vampires" (1991).
Tracii Guns' L.A. GUNS is not to be confused with the Phil Lewis-led version of the group, which is continuing to record and perform under the L.A. GUNS moniker.
TRACII GUNS' LEAGUE OF GENTLEMEN is described as "a rock and roll band leaning heavy into 1970s British and American blues-based hard rock."
Interview (audio):
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Dallas, Texas-based power metallers PHANTOM-X will release their new album, "The Opera Of The Phantom", on August 31 via Pure Steel Records.
The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Storms Of Hell (Opera Chapter 1)
02. The Rise Of The Phantom (Opera Chapter 2)
03. Discovery (Opera Chapter 3)
04. The Mask (Opera Chapter 4)
05. Storm Riders (Opera Chapter 5)
06. Everspell (Opera Chapter 6)
07. 13th Hour (Opera Chapter 7)
08. A Strange World (Opera Chapter 8)
09. Discovery II (Opera Chapter 9)
10. Deep Six Down (Opera Chapter 10)
11. Cloning The Christ (Opera Chapter 11)
12. Playing God (Opera Chapter 12)
13. Holy Hell (Opera Chapter 13)
14. 1000 Quatrains
15. Your Majesty
16. All Hail The Heroes
The "1000 Quatrains" video can be seen below.
Nowadays, the sounds of vintage metal are unmistakably heard in countless up-and-coming bands — whereas seemingly just a few years ago, bands that listed IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST and DIO as chief influences flew well below the radar. PHANTOM-X is one such band that is proud to wave the flag of metal with an '80s flair.
"We receive the comment that we are old school and nothing new," says Goocher. "But we are not trying to be anything new in particular. We give homage to the sounds of the Metal Gods. Our music is inspired by the greats like IRON MAIDEN. It's power metal, with great hooks and melody, with a horror influence. What sets us apart is that we are not set in solely one type of song. We draw inspiration from anywhere that inspires. If it comes out speedy, then you get speedy. If it comes out melodic, then you get melodic. We have a variety of songs for any mood. Our songs are stories. I write lyrically to tell a story, not just to fill a song. In fact, we have chapters that have been released on each CD thus far that are all a part of one story."
Formed in 2003, PHANTOM-X is comprised of members Kevin Goocher (vocalist), Bill Engfer (guitar), Glenn Malicki (bass), and Reece Stanley (drums).
"I was singing for the band OMEN, and we were on a hiatus," recalls Goocher. "I decided that I wanted to do another project. I had noticed Glenn Malicki in a band he was playing in around Dallas. We started talking, and realized we were a good fit. We decided to put together some musicians and see what would come of it. We had started out as a Ronnie James Dio tribute band in 2003, called STARGAZER. Almost immediately, we started writing originals and released our first CD on Mausoleum Records in 2005, 'Rise Of The Phantom'. To support 'Phantom', we toured with ANVIL on the now-legendary tour that was documented in their 'Anvil! The Story of Anvil' movie. Then, we released 'Storm Riders' in 2006, and followed that with a tour. In 2009, Reece Stanley and Bill Engfer joined us and we released 'This Is War' on Perris Records."
The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Storms Of Hell (Opera Chapter 1)
02. The Rise Of The Phantom (Opera Chapter 2)
03. Discovery (Opera Chapter 3)
04. The Mask (Opera Chapter 4)
05. Storm Riders (Opera Chapter 5)
06. Everspell (Opera Chapter 6)
07. 13th Hour (Opera Chapter 7)
08. A Strange World (Opera Chapter 8)
09. Discovery II (Opera Chapter 9)
10. Deep Six Down (Opera Chapter 10)
11. Cloning The Christ (Opera Chapter 11)
12. Playing God (Opera Chapter 12)
13. Holy Hell (Opera Chapter 13)
14. 1000 Quatrains
15. Your Majesty
16. All Hail The Heroes
The "1000 Quatrains" video can be seen below.
Nowadays, the sounds of vintage metal are unmistakably heard in countless up-and-coming bands — whereas seemingly just a few years ago, bands that listed IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST and DIO as chief influences flew well below the radar. PHANTOM-X is one such band that is proud to wave the flag of metal with an '80s flair.
"We receive the comment that we are old school and nothing new," says Goocher. "But we are not trying to be anything new in particular. We give homage to the sounds of the Metal Gods. Our music is inspired by the greats like IRON MAIDEN. It's power metal, with great hooks and melody, with a horror influence. What sets us apart is that we are not set in solely one type of song. We draw inspiration from anywhere that inspires. If it comes out speedy, then you get speedy. If it comes out melodic, then you get melodic. We have a variety of songs for any mood. Our songs are stories. I write lyrically to tell a story, not just to fill a song. In fact, we have chapters that have been released on each CD thus far that are all a part of one story."
Formed in 2003, PHANTOM-X is comprised of members Kevin Goocher (vocalist), Bill Engfer (guitar), Glenn Malicki (bass), and Reece Stanley (drums).
"I was singing for the band OMEN, and we were on a hiatus," recalls Goocher. "I decided that I wanted to do another project. I had noticed Glenn Malicki in a band he was playing in around Dallas. We started talking, and realized we were a good fit. We decided to put together some musicians and see what would come of it. We had started out as a Ronnie James Dio tribute band in 2003, called STARGAZER. Almost immediately, we started writing originals and released our first CD on Mausoleum Records in 2005, 'Rise Of The Phantom'. To support 'Phantom', we toured with ANVIL on the now-legendary tour that was documented in their 'Anvil! The Story of Anvil' movie. Then, we released 'Storm Riders' in 2006, and followed that with a tour. In 2009, Reece Stanley and Bill Engfer joined us and we released 'This Is War' on Perris Records."
WHITE LION singer Mike Tramp has completed work on a new solo album, to be released before the end of the year.
Commented Tramp: "It has been such a comfort to finally be able to make this album, the kind of album I have never done before . . . It's] an album I have had in me for over 20 years but never had the guts to do. But now as my knees are starting to ache and my beard shows signs of grey, and while my heart at times [is] on the verge of breaking, this album is my salvation and I am very excited about it. It feels like I've really come home in a sort of way, and I am very proud."
He added, "At this moment, I don't have a release date, and I know it will be awhile, but I'll let you know the second I have the official date. In the meantime, and also a first time. I am venturing out across Europe, all alone with just my guitar. I have never done this before, but again looking very much forward to bring all these old songs down to the purest and simple form, like they were when they were written. I hope to cover as many countries and cites as possible, and this journey will carry on into 2013. Actually, it might never stop; after all, this is what I am."
Tramp last year released "Stand Your Ground", the second album from his MIKE TRAMP & THE ROCK 'N' ROLL CIRCUZ project. Mike wrote all the songs on the CD, which was recorded almost live at Medley Studios in Copenhagen with Søren Andersen and Tramp as producers. The album was mixed by Jacob Hansen (VOLBEAT, RAUNCHY, THE STORM, SURFACT). The cover artwork was created by Karsten Sand (VOLBEAT).
Commented Tramp: "It has been such a comfort to finally be able to make this album, the kind of album I have never done before . . . It's] an album I have had in me for over 20 years but never had the guts to do. But now as my knees are starting to ache and my beard shows signs of grey, and while my heart at times [is] on the verge of breaking, this album is my salvation and I am very excited about it. It feels like I've really come home in a sort of way, and I am very proud."
He added, "At this moment, I don't have a release date, and I know it will be awhile, but I'll let you know the second I have the official date. In the meantime, and also a first time. I am venturing out across Europe, all alone with just my guitar. I have never done this before, but again looking very much forward to bring all these old songs down to the purest and simple form, like they were when they were written. I hope to cover as many countries and cites as possible, and this journey will carry on into 2013. Actually, it might never stop; after all, this is what I am."
Tramp last year released "Stand Your Ground", the second album from his MIKE TRAMP & THE ROCK 'N' ROLL CIRCUZ project. Mike wrote all the songs on the CD, which was recorded almost live at Medley Studios in Copenhagen with Søren Andersen and Tramp as producers. The album was mixed by Jacob Hansen (VOLBEAT, RAUNCHY, THE STORM, SURFACT). The cover artwork was created by Karsten Sand (VOLBEAT).
British extreme metal record label Earache Records has acquired U.S. label Heavy Artillery Records, combining two of the premier forces in metal music.
Currently celebrating 25 years in the business, Earache Records has been the home to some of the biggest names in metal, and continues to push forwards with some of the best new and up-and-coming talents.
Heavy Artillery was founded in New York and has consistently stood for quality thrash and heavy metal, with releases from the likes of MERCILESS DEATH, ENFORCER, EXMORTUS, VEKTOR, SPELLCASTER and more.
Earache Records label manager Dan Tobin comments: "Heavy Artillery's policy of signing and supporting fresh new talent was something I personally bought into very early on — raw, energetic, passionate early releases like MERCILESS DEATH, ENFORCER and EXMORTUS really stood out as genuinely exciting new bands pursuing their visions of what heavy metal should be, not just jumping on a bandwagon and hoping for a quick route to success. The label's roster stood out as the work of people with music in mind, and with bands like VEKTOR creating serious buzz, it seemed that Heavy Artillery would enjoy the success its early creativity and chance-taking deserved."
He continues, "Now that Earache is charged with upholding an impressive legacy of releases, as well as embracing the future output of these fantastic bands, I feel like it's a really exciting time to be involved with young, hungry bands who have the potential to become the leading lights of the next few years. We aim to ensure that the seeds sown by Heavy Artillery grow and produce fertile metal music for years to come."
Earache intends to continue Heavy Artillery's vision, beginning with reissues of Swedish heavy metallers ENFORCER's 2008 debut album, "Into The Night", followed by the two studio albums from Arizona thrashers VEKTOR — 2009's "Black Future" and 2011's "Outer Isolation". Earache will also reissue ENFORCER's 2010 album, "Diamonds", in the USA.
Currently celebrating 25 years in the business, Earache Records has been the home to some of the biggest names in metal, and continues to push forwards with some of the best new and up-and-coming talents.
Heavy Artillery was founded in New York and has consistently stood for quality thrash and heavy metal, with releases from the likes of MERCILESS DEATH, ENFORCER, EXMORTUS, VEKTOR, SPELLCASTER and more.
Earache Records label manager Dan Tobin comments: "Heavy Artillery's policy of signing and supporting fresh new talent was something I personally bought into very early on — raw, energetic, passionate early releases like MERCILESS DEATH, ENFORCER and EXMORTUS really stood out as genuinely exciting new bands pursuing their visions of what heavy metal should be, not just jumping on a bandwagon and hoping for a quick route to success. The label's roster stood out as the work of people with music in mind, and with bands like VEKTOR creating serious buzz, it seemed that Heavy Artillery would enjoy the success its early creativity and chance-taking deserved."
He continues, "Now that Earache is charged with upholding an impressive legacy of releases, as well as embracing the future output of these fantastic bands, I feel like it's a really exciting time to be involved with young, hungry bands who have the potential to become the leading lights of the next few years. We aim to ensure that the seeds sown by Heavy Artillery grow and produce fertile metal music for years to come."
Earache intends to continue Heavy Artillery's vision, beginning with reissues of Swedish heavy metallers ENFORCER's 2008 debut album, "Into The Night", followed by the two studio albums from Arizona thrashers VEKTOR — 2009's "Black Future" and 2011's "Outer Isolation". Earache will also reissue ENFORCER's 2010 album, "Diamonds", in the USA.
Czech tabloid Blesk.cz has published what it claims is an exclusive jailhouse interview with LAMB OF GOD frontman Randy Blythe, conducted via his attorney. (In case you are skeptical, the band's reps has confirmed to SPIN that the interview is indeed legit.)
Blythe was arrested in the Czech Republic on June 27 and is facing manslaughter charges in connection with a 2010 Prague concert at which he allegedly shoved a local fan off the stage. The man, who is said to have stormed the stage three times during the show, reportedly suffered a brain hemorrhage that resulted in his death nearly a month later.
Blythe's next Czech court appearance is scheduled for Thursday, July 19.
A rough BLABBERMOUTH.NET translation of Blesk.cz's interview with Blythe follows below.
Blesk.cz: What is your recollection of the incident that happened at club Abaton in Prague during LAMB OF GOD's concert in May 2010?
Randy: "I don't know anything about any sort of incident [that allegedly took place during the concert]. I remember very few details about the show, mainly because I have played a lot of concerts [before and after the gig in question]. I just remember that the stage at the club was very small, and we barely managed to fit our equipment on there. Also, apparently there was a security guard there because many people climbed onto the stage — including one small boy, in particular, but I could be mixing up details with what happened at other clubs. Since I don't wear my glasses while performing, I see little more than blurry outlines. In any case, I did not attack anyone. The only way I could have come into contact with anyone from the audience was if I was protecting myself from [people bumping into me when climbing on the stage]."
Blesk.cz: How are you spending time in custody and with your fellow inmates?
Randy: "I read, I write letters to friends, family, and I also keep a diary. I get along very well with [my Mongol cellmate], and I am even trying to learn a bit of Mongolian. I'm starting to write a book about my time in the Pankrác prison and come up with lyrical ideas."
Blesk.cz: Do you have reservations about cooperating with the Czech police and getting justice in your case?
Randy: "As far as the police is concerned, I believe that they have acted very professionally and followed the principles of good conduct. But in terms of justice, I honestly do not know what to expect because it is different than the U.S. I thought that if I made bail, I would be released."
Blesk.cz: On Wednesday (July 11), you received a visit from your wife. Are you getting a lot of support from your family and your fans?
Randy: "My meeting with my gorgeous wife was beautiful and encouraging. I have received messages and support from family, my friends and my bandmates, who all missing me, and I cannot wait to see them all."
Blesk.cz: You have made bail, and it appears that you will soon be released from prison. What are your future plans?
Randy: "If I go back to the U.S., I will mow the lawn, spend some time with family and plunge right back into performing, so that I can pay for my legal fees. I have to help my friends earn some money so that we can live decently. If I had to stay in the Czech Republic, I would look at the sights, especially in Prague. I would follow Kafka's footprints and I would eat dumplings."
Randy has been charged with causing "bodily harm of the fourth degree, resulting in the death of a fan" and faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
Blythe, who has already posted bail of 4 millionCzech Koruna (approximately $200,000), will have been imprisoned for three weeks by the time he gets his next day in court.
This week's hearing will reportedly involve a panel of judges that meet to review the prosecutors bail challenge; they can approve the bail or annul the bail.
Blythe was arrested in the Czech Republic on June 27 and is facing manslaughter charges in connection with a 2010 Prague concert at which he allegedly shoved a local fan off the stage. The man, who is said to have stormed the stage three times during the show, reportedly suffered a brain hemorrhage that resulted in his death nearly a month later.
Blythe's next Czech court appearance is scheduled for Thursday, July 19.
A rough BLABBERMOUTH.NET translation of Blesk.cz's interview with Blythe follows below.
Blesk.cz: What is your recollection of the incident that happened at club Abaton in Prague during LAMB OF GOD's concert in May 2010?
Randy: "I don't know anything about any sort of incident [that allegedly took place during the concert]. I remember very few details about the show, mainly because I have played a lot of concerts [before and after the gig in question]. I just remember that the stage at the club was very small, and we barely managed to fit our equipment on there. Also, apparently there was a security guard there because many people climbed onto the stage — including one small boy, in particular, but I could be mixing up details with what happened at other clubs. Since I don't wear my glasses while performing, I see little more than blurry outlines. In any case, I did not attack anyone. The only way I could have come into contact with anyone from the audience was if I was protecting myself from [people bumping into me when climbing on the stage]."
Blesk.cz: How are you spending time in custody and with your fellow inmates?
Randy: "I read, I write letters to friends, family, and I also keep a diary. I get along very well with [my Mongol cellmate], and I am even trying to learn a bit of Mongolian. I'm starting to write a book about my time in the Pankrác prison and come up with lyrical ideas."
Blesk.cz: Do you have reservations about cooperating with the Czech police and getting justice in your case?
Randy: "As far as the police is concerned, I believe that they have acted very professionally and followed the principles of good conduct. But in terms of justice, I honestly do not know what to expect because it is different than the U.S. I thought that if I made bail, I would be released."
Blesk.cz: On Wednesday (July 11), you received a visit from your wife. Are you getting a lot of support from your family and your fans?
Randy: "My meeting with my gorgeous wife was beautiful and encouraging. I have received messages and support from family, my friends and my bandmates, who all missing me, and I cannot wait to see them all."
Blesk.cz: You have made bail, and it appears that you will soon be released from prison. What are your future plans?
Randy: "If I go back to the U.S., I will mow the lawn, spend some time with family and plunge right back into performing, so that I can pay for my legal fees. I have to help my friends earn some money so that we can live decently. If I had to stay in the Czech Republic, I would look at the sights, especially in Prague. I would follow Kafka's footprints and I would eat dumplings."
Randy has been charged with causing "bodily harm of the fourth degree, resulting in the death of a fan" and faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
Blythe, who has already posted bail of 4 millionCzech Koruna (approximately $200,000), will have been imprisoned for three weeks by the time he gets his next day in court.
This week's hearing will reportedly involve a panel of judges that meet to review the prosecutors bail challenge; they can approve the bail or annul the bail.
According to the Czech news site iDNES.cz, a Prague Municipal Court dismissed on Monday (July 16) the Prague State Attorney's Office complaint against LAMB OF GOD singer Randy Blythe's release on bail. However, the court increased Blythe's bail from $200,000 — which has already been paid — to $400,000, which is said to be equivalent to twice Randy's annual income.
The Prague Monitor previously reported that district court judge Petr Fassati said that even after the latest ruling, a Prague attorney could still be allowed to again comment on bail.
Blythe was arrested in the Czech Republic on June 27 and is facing manslaughter charges in connection with a 2010 Prague concert at which he allegedly shoved a local fan off the stage. The man, who is said to have stormed the stage three times during the show, reportedly suffered a brain hemorrhage that resulted in his death nearly a month later.
Martin Holub, a lawyer at Šafra & Partners, told The Prague Post if bail is revoked, Blythe could be kept in prison for up to six months.
"The authorities will be concerned about him leaving the country and then having to begin extradition proceedings," Holub said. "If, however, the appeal court confirms the decision of the previous court, Randy Blythe should be released on the day that decision is made."
Jonathan Crane, a reporter from the Prague Post, told WTVR-TV that a legal expert believes the Blythe's defense team should have quite a strong case. "Even if Randy was responsible for the alleged attack, the expert said that who is to say that he wasn't accidentally kicked or trodden on or left without help by fans below the stage," Crane said.
The U.S. Embassy in Prague on last week released a very brief statement regarding Blythe: "The U.S. Embassy provides standard consular services to American citizens in need of assistance. We cannot discuss specific cases due to privacy concerns."
The Prague Monitor previously reported that district court judge Petr Fassati said that even after the latest ruling, a Prague attorney could still be allowed to again comment on bail.
Blythe was arrested in the Czech Republic on June 27 and is facing manslaughter charges in connection with a 2010 Prague concert at which he allegedly shoved a local fan off the stage. The man, who is said to have stormed the stage three times during the show, reportedly suffered a brain hemorrhage that resulted in his death nearly a month later.
Martin Holub, a lawyer at Šafra & Partners, told The Prague Post if bail is revoked, Blythe could be kept in prison for up to six months.
"The authorities will be concerned about him leaving the country and then having to begin extradition proceedings," Holub said. "If, however, the appeal court confirms the decision of the previous court, Randy Blythe should be released on the day that decision is made."
Jonathan Crane, a reporter from the Prague Post, told WTVR-TV that a legal expert believes the Blythe's defense team should have quite a strong case. "Even if Randy was responsible for the alleged attack, the expert said that who is to say that he wasn't accidentally kicked or trodden on or left without help by fans below the stage," Crane said.
The U.S. Embassy in Prague on last week released a very brief statement regarding Blythe: "The U.S. Embassy provides standard consular services to American citizens in need of assistance. We cannot discuss specific cases due to privacy concerns."
LAMB OF GOD manager Larry Mazer told WTVR-TV — the CBS television affiliate based in Richmond, Virginia — that he is still waiting for an official letter informing him that the Czech prosecutor's complaint to block singer Randy Blythe's bail has been dismissed and that Blythe's bail has now been increased. The letter, which must be issued within 48 hours, will state exactly what conditions have been made.
In a closed session, which was originally scheduled for July 19 but took place earlier than planned, a panel of municipal judges reportedly dismissed the Prague State Attorney's Office complaint against Blythe's release on bail. In addition, the court increased Blythe's bail from $200,000 — which has already been paid — to $400,000, which is said to be equivalent to twice Randy's annual income.
Mazer told WTVR-TV that he believe part of the condition is the increased bail. "We are hopeful that tomorrow morning there will be an official letter," said Mazer.
The Prague Monitor previously reported that district court judge Petr Fassati said that even after the latest ruling, a Prague attorney could still be allowed to again comment on bail.
Blythe was arrested in the Czech Republic on June 27 and is facing manslaughter charges in connection with a 2010 Prague concert at which he allegedly shoved a local fan off the stage. The man, who is said to have stormed the stage three times during the show, reportedly suffered a brain hemorrhage that resulted in his death nearly a month later.
In a closed session, which was originally scheduled for July 19 but took place earlier than planned, a panel of municipal judges reportedly dismissed the Prague State Attorney's Office complaint against Blythe's release on bail. In addition, the court increased Blythe's bail from $200,000 — which has already been paid — to $400,000, which is said to be equivalent to twice Randy's annual income.
Mazer told WTVR-TV that he believe part of the condition is the increased bail. "We are hopeful that tomorrow morning there will be an official letter," said Mazer.
The Prague Monitor previously reported that district court judge Petr Fassati said that even after the latest ruling, a Prague attorney could still be allowed to again comment on bail.
Blythe was arrested in the Czech Republic on June 27 and is facing manslaughter charges in connection with a 2010 Prague concert at which he allegedly shoved a local fan off the stage. The man, who is said to have stormed the stage three times during the show, reportedly suffered a brain hemorrhage that resulted in his death nearly a month later.
Guitarist Zach Householder of Knoxville, Tennessee death metallers WHITECHAPEL is one of a number of musicians who have come out in support of LAMB OF GOD frontman Randy Blythe, who is facing manslaughter charges in the Czech Republic.
Blythe, 41, is accused of causing the fatal injury that occurred at LAMB OF GOD's May 24, 2010 show in Prague. The singer allegedly either pushed or struck a 19-year-old fan named Daniel N. — a guitarist in a local metal band — and that person died almost a month later of bleeding in the brain.
Randy has been charged with causing "bodily harm of the fourth degree, resulting in the death of a fan" and faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
Speaking to Superskum.com at the Englewood, Colorado stop of the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival on July 8, Householder said (see video below), "I understand everything about it, as far as… It's a fucking shitty scenario for Randy, and I really hate it. On the other hand, that's somebody's kid, and they lost their kid, and I know why they're upset. [I understand] both sides of the story and it sucks for both of them. I want Randy out of there, 'cause I hate the fact that he's locked up without his friends and family and he's far from home; that could be the worst scenario ever for anybody in a band for that to happen. I want him to get out."
He continued, "Like I said, I understand why the people [in the Czech Republic] are mad. I just hope that they come to a conclusion about that's just obviously… Since Dimebag [late PANTERA/DAMAGEPLAN guitarist 'Dimebag' Darrell Abbott, who was killed while performing in December 2004] was shot, that shit about people getting on stage changed.
"I back [Randy] for what he did. I'm sure he had no intentions of ever hurting the kid to begin with. It's an unfortunate series of events — [that's] what it is — and it just lined up to where Randy got the shit end of the stick right now. I think they're gonna come to a settlement where they know he didn't intend to do it. They would be dumb not to take his side of the story and go, 'We understand you didn't mean to do it. We're just upset because [a family] lost its kid.'
"It's just a crappy situation, man."
Blythe, 41, is accused of causing the fatal injury that occurred at LAMB OF GOD's May 24, 2010 show in Prague. The singer allegedly either pushed or struck a 19-year-old fan named Daniel N. — a guitarist in a local metal band — and that person died almost a month later of bleeding in the brain.
Randy has been charged with causing "bodily harm of the fourth degree, resulting in the death of a fan" and faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
Speaking to Superskum.com at the Englewood, Colorado stop of the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival on July 8, Householder said (see video below), "I understand everything about it, as far as… It's a fucking shitty scenario for Randy, and I really hate it. On the other hand, that's somebody's kid, and they lost their kid, and I know why they're upset. [I understand] both sides of the story and it sucks for both of them. I want Randy out of there, 'cause I hate the fact that he's locked up without his friends and family and he's far from home; that could be the worst scenario ever for anybody in a band for that to happen. I want him to get out."
He continued, "Like I said, I understand why the people [in the Czech Republic] are mad. I just hope that they come to a conclusion about that's just obviously… Since Dimebag [late PANTERA/DAMAGEPLAN guitarist 'Dimebag' Darrell Abbott, who was killed while performing in December 2004] was shot, that shit about people getting on stage changed.
"I back [Randy] for what he did. I'm sure he had no intentions of ever hurting the kid to begin with. It's an unfortunate series of events — [that's] what it is — and it just lined up to where Randy got the shit end of the stick right now. I think they're gonna come to a settlement where they know he didn't intend to do it. They would be dumb not to take his side of the story and go, 'We understand you didn't mean to do it. We're just upset because [a family] lost its kid.'
"It's just a crappy situation, man."
Dave Brockie (a.k.a. Oderus Urungus) of GWAR will write and illustrate (with the help of fellow Slave Pit artist Matt Maguire) the tabletop RPG adventure "Towers Two" as part of a crowdfunding campaign for the "Lamentations Of The Flame Princess" weird fantasy role-playing game.
The adventure will tell a story of insanity and dread: The mighty "Towers Two" had stood as a symbol of stability and prosperity over a world that was increasingly slipping into chaos. But ever since the difficult birth of the identical twin brothers Rondrel and Zal, a shadow has fallen over the family and the land they had ruled for centuries. The brothers quarreled over the power they had inherited from their father, squandering their wealth, and sending the line into decay. The nearby village of Ham, once happy to call Towers Two and the Family Hune their protectors, now live in fear of the fortress and it inhabitants.
"I'm completely stoked to be doing this, and I really hope the crowd funding venture is successful, even though I waited to the last second to start promoting it," Brockie says. "I am an old-school DM, and ran custom adventures out of my worlds for over 20 years until the point where I felt we had committed every possible atrocity and wrenched every permutation out of the D+D system, which I really had abandoned anyway. I began to do horrible things to my players. One group wandered the Abyss for two years until they finally realized they were damned, even though I never told them. Out of boredom I ran a Lawful Good campaign of elves, just to kill them off with the worst monsters I could think of. We used to play on the tour bus all the time, but as GWAR started getting hotter groupies I finally got bored with it."
Brockie continued: "Years later, GWAR is going strong, and I get a call from James Raggi and a crash-course in what has been going on in the world of RPGs. I was really impressed with his 'Lamentations Of The Flame Princess' game system. Just like I had done with my old campaigns, all the extraneous crap was gone from the rule system, leaving the emphasis on the juicy stuff...weird monsters and how to bash their heads in. The art was excellent as well. I dusted off the immense pile of adventures I had saved from my RPG days and began looking for an appropriate one to update. 'Towers Two', with its decaying royal line, dungeon full of hideous creatures, and town full of angry villagers had always been a favorite adventure for me to run...so I began updating in a new and completely sick manner for the 'Lamentations Of The Flame Princess' game system."
"Working with the top creative talent out there is a priority for me," says "Lamentations Of The Flame Princess" publisher James Edward Raggi IV. "I knew I wanted a metal musician to write an adventure to get the right attitude, and Brockie is the guy. His work with GWAR shows he's able to come up with memorable characters and situations wrapped up in a package that gets attention, he's got the twisted imagination that fits the 'Lamentations Of The Flame Princess' style, and he's got the gaming experience to turn it into something playable for the gaming crowd. It's going to kick ass and blow minds."
The crowdfunding campaign for "Towers Two" ends July 31.
The adventure will tell a story of insanity and dread: The mighty "Towers Two" had stood as a symbol of stability and prosperity over a world that was increasingly slipping into chaos. But ever since the difficult birth of the identical twin brothers Rondrel and Zal, a shadow has fallen over the family and the land they had ruled for centuries. The brothers quarreled over the power they had inherited from their father, squandering their wealth, and sending the line into decay. The nearby village of Ham, once happy to call Towers Two and the Family Hune their protectors, now live in fear of the fortress and it inhabitants.
"I'm completely stoked to be doing this, and I really hope the crowd funding venture is successful, even though I waited to the last second to start promoting it," Brockie says. "I am an old-school DM, and ran custom adventures out of my worlds for over 20 years until the point where I felt we had committed every possible atrocity and wrenched every permutation out of the D+D system, which I really had abandoned anyway. I began to do horrible things to my players. One group wandered the Abyss for two years until they finally realized they were damned, even though I never told them. Out of boredom I ran a Lawful Good campaign of elves, just to kill them off with the worst monsters I could think of. We used to play on the tour bus all the time, but as GWAR started getting hotter groupies I finally got bored with it."
Brockie continued: "Years later, GWAR is going strong, and I get a call from James Raggi and a crash-course in what has been going on in the world of RPGs. I was really impressed with his 'Lamentations Of The Flame Princess' game system. Just like I had done with my old campaigns, all the extraneous crap was gone from the rule system, leaving the emphasis on the juicy stuff...weird monsters and how to bash their heads in. The art was excellent as well. I dusted off the immense pile of adventures I had saved from my RPG days and began looking for an appropriate one to update. 'Towers Two', with its decaying royal line, dungeon full of hideous creatures, and town full of angry villagers had always been a favorite adventure for me to run...so I began updating in a new and completely sick manner for the 'Lamentations Of The Flame Princess' game system."
"Working with the top creative talent out there is a priority for me," says "Lamentations Of The Flame Princess" publisher James Edward Raggi IV. "I knew I wanted a metal musician to write an adventure to get the right attitude, and Brockie is the guy. His work with GWAR shows he's able to come up with memorable characters and situations wrapped up in a package that gets attention, he's got the twisted imagination that fits the 'Lamentations Of The Flame Princess' style, and he's got the gaming experience to turn it into something playable for the gaming crowd. It's going to kick ass and blow minds."
The crowdfunding campaign for "Towers Two" ends July 31.
Euroblast Collective, Avocado Booking, InsideOut Music and Century Media Records have teamed up to bring you the finest in contemporary progressive metal with the first installment of the Euroblast Tour. The trek is headlined by former NEVERMORE guitarist Jeff Loomis, who has been a heavy influence on young shredders while keeping a fresh and modern edge to his music. U.K.'s MONUMENTS and Sweden's VILDHJARTA will be splitting the position of direct support while up-and-coming U.S. act STEALING AXION will open up the progressive, shred-astic djent extravaganza.
The dates are as follows:
Oct. 17 - Munich, Germany - Feierwerk
Oct. 18 - Aarau, Switzerland - Kiff
Oct. 20 - Cologne, Germany - Euroblast Festival
Oct. 21 - Brighton, England - Audio
Oct. 22 - Reading, England - Sub89
Oct. 23 - Liverpool, England - O2 Academy 2
Oct. 24 - Glasgow, Scotland - Cathouse
Oct. 25 - Dublin, Ireland - The Village
Oct. 26 - Leeds, England - The Well
Oct. 27 - Birmingham, England - O2 Academy 3
Oct. 28 - London, England - Underworld
Oct. 29 - Antwerp, Belgium - Trix
Oct. 30 - Kerkrade, Netherlands - The Rock Temple
Oct. 31 - Muenster, Germany - Sputnikhalle
Nov. 01 - Oslo, Norway - Sub Scene
Nov. 02 - Gothenburg, Sweden - Sticky Fingers
Nov. 05 - Helsinki, Finland - Tavastia
Nov. 07 - Copenhagen, Denmark - Templet
Nov. 08 - Berlin, Germany - Magnet
Nov. 10 - Prague, Czech Republic - Hoodoo
Nov. 11 - Budapest, Hungary - Dürer Kert
Nov. 12 - Vienna, Austria - Arena
Nov. 13 - Rome, Italy - Traffic Club
Nov. 14 - Legnano, Itlay - Land Of Live Club
Loomis and his solo band recently part in a 24-date, coast-to-coast U.S. tour with PROTEST THE HERO, PERIPHERY, THE SAFETY FIRE and TODAY I CAUGHT THE PLAGUE.
Jeff was accompanied on the stage by the following musicians:
* Joe Nurre (SHADED ENMITY) - Guitar
* Gregory Macklin (SYSTEM DIVIDE, ORDINANCE) - Bass
* Anup Sastry (INTERVALS, SKYHARBOR) - Drums
Loomis is currently taking part in a North American tour with THE CONTORTIONIST. The trek kicked off on July 14 in Indianapolis, Indiana and will run through August 3. Support on the trek is coming from CHIMP SPANNER and 7 HORNS 7 EYES.
Loomis's second solo album, "Plains Of Oblivion", sold 2,900 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 179 on The Billboard 200 chart. The effort landed at No. 2 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.
"Plains Of Oblivion" was released on April 10 in North America (one day earlier in Europe) via Century Media Records. The CD was produced by Aaron Smith (7 HORNS 7 EYES) and features cover artwork by Colin Marks of Rain Song Design, who has previously worked with ALL SHALL PERISH, THE END and XERATH.
The dates are as follows:
Oct. 17 - Munich, Germany - Feierwerk
Oct. 18 - Aarau, Switzerland - Kiff
Oct. 20 - Cologne, Germany - Euroblast Festival
Oct. 21 - Brighton, England - Audio
Oct. 22 - Reading, England - Sub89
Oct. 23 - Liverpool, England - O2 Academy 2
Oct. 24 - Glasgow, Scotland - Cathouse
Oct. 25 - Dublin, Ireland - The Village
Oct. 26 - Leeds, England - The Well
Oct. 27 - Birmingham, England - O2 Academy 3
Oct. 28 - London, England - Underworld
Oct. 29 - Antwerp, Belgium - Trix
Oct. 30 - Kerkrade, Netherlands - The Rock Temple
Oct. 31 - Muenster, Germany - Sputnikhalle
Nov. 01 - Oslo, Norway - Sub Scene
Nov. 02 - Gothenburg, Sweden - Sticky Fingers
Nov. 05 - Helsinki, Finland - Tavastia
Nov. 07 - Copenhagen, Denmark - Templet
Nov. 08 - Berlin, Germany - Magnet
Nov. 10 - Prague, Czech Republic - Hoodoo
Nov. 11 - Budapest, Hungary - Dürer Kert
Nov. 12 - Vienna, Austria - Arena
Nov. 13 - Rome, Italy - Traffic Club
Nov. 14 - Legnano, Itlay - Land Of Live Club
Loomis and his solo band recently part in a 24-date, coast-to-coast U.S. tour with PROTEST THE HERO, PERIPHERY, THE SAFETY FIRE and TODAY I CAUGHT THE PLAGUE.
Jeff was accompanied on the stage by the following musicians:
* Joe Nurre (SHADED ENMITY) - Guitar
* Gregory Macklin (SYSTEM DIVIDE, ORDINANCE) - Bass
* Anup Sastry (INTERVALS, SKYHARBOR) - Drums
Loomis is currently taking part in a North American tour with THE CONTORTIONIST. The trek kicked off on July 14 in Indianapolis, Indiana and will run through August 3. Support on the trek is coming from CHIMP SPANNER and 7 HORNS 7 EYES.
Loomis's second solo album, "Plains Of Oblivion", sold 2,900 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 179 on The Billboard 200 chart. The effort landed at No. 2 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.
"Plains Of Oblivion" was released on April 10 in North America (one day earlier in Europe) via Century Media Records. The CD was produced by Aaron Smith (7 HORNS 7 EYES) and features cover artwork by Colin Marks of Rain Song Design, who has previously worked with ALL SHALL PERISH, THE END and XERATH.
The infamous New York City street punks THE CASUALTIES will release their new album, "Resistance", on September 25 via Season Of Mist. The effort will be available on CD, limited-edition LP (with bonus track and download card) and limited-edition digibox, including the CD with a bonus track, bandana, bottle opener and patch.
"Resistance" was recorded at Planet Z Studios in Massachusetts with producer Chris "Zeuss" Harris (MUNICIPAL WASTE, MADBALL, HATEBREED).
THE CASUALTIES are currently on the road co-headlining the "Tonight We Unite!" tour alongside the NEKROMANTIX. The tour also includes DOWN BY LAW, LOWER CLASS BRATS, and more.
THE CASUALTIES (Jorge Herrera - lead vocals, Rick Lopez - bass/vocals, Jake Kolatis - guitar/vocals, Meggers - drums) combine influences from the classic punk sound of GBH, THE EXPLOITED, ENGLISH DOGS, DISCHARGE and UK SUBS with modern extreme sounds and a thrash/crossover edge.
THE CASUALTIES have released five acclaimed records on Side One Dummy, and toured to almost every corner of the globe in clubs and on festivals alongside giants like BAD RELIGION, GWAR, HATEBREED, FLOGGING MOLLY, MUNICIPAL WASTE, TSOL, AGNOSTIC FRONT and more.
"Resistance" was recorded at Planet Z Studios in Massachusetts with producer Chris "Zeuss" Harris (MUNICIPAL WASTE, MADBALL, HATEBREED).
THE CASUALTIES are currently on the road co-headlining the "Tonight We Unite!" tour alongside the NEKROMANTIX. The tour also includes DOWN BY LAW, LOWER CLASS BRATS, and more.
THE CASUALTIES (Jorge Herrera - lead vocals, Rick Lopez - bass/vocals, Jake Kolatis - guitar/vocals, Meggers - drums) combine influences from the classic punk sound of GBH, THE EXPLOITED, ENGLISH DOGS, DISCHARGE and UK SUBS with modern extreme sounds and a thrash/crossover edge.
THE CASUALTIES have released five acclaimed records on Side One Dummy, and toured to almost every corner of the globe in clubs and on festivals alongside giants like BAD RELIGION, GWAR, HATEBREED, FLOGGING MOLLY, MUNICIPAL WASTE, TSOL, AGNOSTIC FRONT and more.
Saturday, July 21 and Sunday, July 22 will mark the New York City debut of former MEGADETH guitarist Chris Poland's latest side project, POLCAT, at The Iridium. OHM:/OHMPHREY bassist Robby Pagliari will be filling in for POLCAT's Sean O'Bryan Smith for these shows. The excitement continues on Monday, July 23, as Chris Poland and the LES PAUL TRIO will be joined by special guests Percy Jones (BRAND X, TUNNELS), Mike DiMeo (THE LIZARDS, RIOT, MASTERPLAN), and POLCAT members Frank Catalano, Jim Gifford, and Robby Pagliari for a different musical stew that is sure to be unique and exciting.
POLCAT's self-titled debut CD was released earlier this year on Ashro Records. The band consists of the astounding talents of fusion guitar icon Chris Poland, Grammy-nominated sax giant Frank Catalano, internationally acclaimed solo artist/bassist Sean O'Bryan Smith and drum phenomenon Jim Gifford.
POLCAT members take their extremely diverse backgrounds of solo performance coupled with a musical repertoire spanning every inch of the music industry to create their own take on the next step in contemporary jazz. Four composers, locked in a room, and created pure music from its most basic properties.
POLCAT's self-titled debut CD was released earlier this year on Ashro Records. The band consists of the astounding talents of fusion guitar icon Chris Poland, Grammy-nominated sax giant Frank Catalano, internationally acclaimed solo artist/bassist Sean O'Bryan Smith and drum phenomenon Jim Gifford.
POLCAT members take their extremely diverse backgrounds of solo performance coupled with a musical repertoire spanning every inch of the music industry to create their own take on the next step in contemporary jazz. Four composers, locked in a room, and created pure music from its most basic properties.
EverythingRock recently conducted an interview with bassist Jarkko Aaltonen of Finnish folk metallers KORPIKLAANI. A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.
EverythingRock: As I understand it, "Manala" is the Finnish underworld in mythology and this album is based upon parts of a poem. Could you explain this concept a bit more to us?
Jarkko: The original idea was to make a concept album based on the Finnish national epic "Kalevala". The lyrics then started to come in and it turned out that it wasn't all from "Kalevala" after all and we were still using those texts. We forgot the idea of the concept album and announced that it was to be called "Kunnia" (Honor/Glory) — as is the first track on the album. But then, we looked a bit more into what we had done, and we realized that many of the songs are actually still about "Kalevala" or Finnish folklore anyway and most of them are about death and the underworld so we thought, "We need to change the name because 'Kunnia' doesn't really fit with this album anymore." That is how it became "Manala" and now everybody thinks that it is a concept album about Manala, which it isn't, but it has lots of references to the underworld and death in general. There's a lot about murders and that kind of material as well… The funny, lovely, hilarious folklore of Finland. [laughs]
EverythingRock: How did you keep the happy, upbeat sound that has become synonymous with KORPIKLAANI when writing about these dark and morbid subjects?
Jarkko: [laughs] That's because we write the music first and the lyrics come later so it's quite easy. But it is funny — you've got the music written, the melody written, and the music doesn't change but then you put a certain set of lyrics on top of that and it changes the whole mood of the song. It may be different for a person who doesn't speak or understand Finnish, but for us, the lyrics change the whole atmosphere of the album. For us, it is a dark album. It's got some thrash-metal-like heavy riffing and some brilliant melodies yet it is a really dark and gloomy album.
EverythingRock: When you set out with the idea of a concept album, did you change your approach to writing the music for album?
Jarkko: The original idea for the concept album was only for the lyrics – not like a musically a concept album, not in the style of "Thick As A Brick" or anything like that. It's a collection of songs. We had more songs written and demoed for the album, but we left out several that we felt, or the producer felt, didn't fit in with the album that well.
EverythingRock: Could you see KORPIKLAANI using those songs in the future?
Jarkko: We don't usually do that. We always have extra songs that we for some reason have left out from the album. Usually it has been because we have felt that they are not good enough so we leave them out, but now, we actually had songs that we felt were good and we were even arguing about that with the producer because we felt they should be on the album, but we made a deal — If he says that "it's not there," then it's not there. After a long argument, he won, but maybe this time we will use those later. For the first time, in what we left out, I feel that there is some good stuff there. Maybe we will take the better riffs and just leave the not so good ones.
EverythingRock: As I understand it, "Manala" is the Finnish underworld in mythology and this album is based upon parts of a poem. Could you explain this concept a bit more to us?
Jarkko: The original idea was to make a concept album based on the Finnish national epic "Kalevala". The lyrics then started to come in and it turned out that it wasn't all from "Kalevala" after all and we were still using those texts. We forgot the idea of the concept album and announced that it was to be called "Kunnia" (Honor/Glory) — as is the first track on the album. But then, we looked a bit more into what we had done, and we realized that many of the songs are actually still about "Kalevala" or Finnish folklore anyway and most of them are about death and the underworld so we thought, "We need to change the name because 'Kunnia' doesn't really fit with this album anymore." That is how it became "Manala" and now everybody thinks that it is a concept album about Manala, which it isn't, but it has lots of references to the underworld and death in general. There's a lot about murders and that kind of material as well… The funny, lovely, hilarious folklore of Finland. [laughs]
EverythingRock: How did you keep the happy, upbeat sound that has become synonymous with KORPIKLAANI when writing about these dark and morbid subjects?
Jarkko: [laughs] That's because we write the music first and the lyrics come later so it's quite easy. But it is funny — you've got the music written, the melody written, and the music doesn't change but then you put a certain set of lyrics on top of that and it changes the whole mood of the song. It may be different for a person who doesn't speak or understand Finnish, but for us, the lyrics change the whole atmosphere of the album. For us, it is a dark album. It's got some thrash-metal-like heavy riffing and some brilliant melodies yet it is a really dark and gloomy album.
EverythingRock: When you set out with the idea of a concept album, did you change your approach to writing the music for album?
Jarkko: The original idea for the concept album was only for the lyrics – not like a musically a concept album, not in the style of "Thick As A Brick" or anything like that. It's a collection of songs. We had more songs written and demoed for the album, but we left out several that we felt, or the producer felt, didn't fit in with the album that well.
EverythingRock: Could you see KORPIKLAANI using those songs in the future?
Jarkko: We don't usually do that. We always have extra songs that we for some reason have left out from the album. Usually it has been because we have felt that they are not good enough so we leave them out, but now, we actually had songs that we felt were good and we were even arguing about that with the producer because we felt they should be on the album, but we made a deal — If he says that "it's not there," then it's not there. After a long argument, he won, but maybe this time we will use those later. For the first time, in what we left out, I feel that there is some good stuff there. Maybe we will take the better riffs and just leave the not so good ones.
Los Angeles-based progressive death metal titans THE FACELESS will release their third full-length album, "Autotheism", on August 14 via Sumerian Records. The band's first release in over three years sees the group's leader, Michael Keene (guitar), enlist a new vocalist, bassist and additional guitarist to help him see his musical vision come to fruition and these new members have delivered tenfold.
According to a press release, "Autotheism" is "a semi-conceptual record following a man's journey of self-discovery and transformation into the all-powerful God of his reality. It starts with his realization of the power he possesses and moves through every step of an ever-evolving reality that the future may have in store. Musically, 'Autotheism' is expansive in all directions. It is a thought-provoking roller coaster with the occasional sledge hammer to the skull and contains more dynamics and diversity than any offering presented by THE FACELESS to date."
Commented Keene: "I have never been prouder of any musical offering I have ever created. This record is both punishing and diverse. It covers so much ground musically while retaining a clear focus. The time spent, plus the new personnel and the life experience of several years, have culminated in this record's sound and created something that surpassed my original vision of what it would be. I think that listeners will find 'Autotheism' to be both more adventurous and daring, as well as more memorable and captivating than ever before."
Pre-order bundles are available at this location.
Look for THE FACELESS to tour the world extensively in support of the new album.
THE FACELESS in April completed the "Metal Alliance Tour 2012" alongside DEVILDRIVER, 3 INCHES OF BLOOD, DYING FETUS, JOB FOR A COWBOY, IMPENDING DOOM and WRETCHED.
THE FACELESS recently parted ways with guitarist Steve Jones and replaced him with Wes Hauch. Keene broke the news via Twitter, stating, "Farewell Steve Jones. We had a long ride, my brother. Welcome the amazing Wes Hauch to THE FACELESS. He is a shredder."
Vocalist Derek Rydquist exited THE FACELESS in May 2011 and was replaced by Geoff Ficco (KAMIKABE, ORGONE). Rydquist explained his decision to exit the band by saying that he was "no longer emotionally or artistically fulfilled by being the vocalist for the group."
According to a press release, "Autotheism" is "a semi-conceptual record following a man's journey of self-discovery and transformation into the all-powerful God of his reality. It starts with his realization of the power he possesses and moves through every step of an ever-evolving reality that the future may have in store. Musically, 'Autotheism' is expansive in all directions. It is a thought-provoking roller coaster with the occasional sledge hammer to the skull and contains more dynamics and diversity than any offering presented by THE FACELESS to date."
Commented Keene: "I have never been prouder of any musical offering I have ever created. This record is both punishing and diverse. It covers so much ground musically while retaining a clear focus. The time spent, plus the new personnel and the life experience of several years, have culminated in this record's sound and created something that surpassed my original vision of what it would be. I think that listeners will find 'Autotheism' to be both more adventurous and daring, as well as more memorable and captivating than ever before."
Pre-order bundles are available at this location.
Look for THE FACELESS to tour the world extensively in support of the new album.
THE FACELESS in April completed the "Metal Alliance Tour 2012" alongside DEVILDRIVER, 3 INCHES OF BLOOD, DYING FETUS, JOB FOR A COWBOY, IMPENDING DOOM and WRETCHED.
THE FACELESS recently parted ways with guitarist Steve Jones and replaced him with Wes Hauch. Keene broke the news via Twitter, stating, "Farewell Steve Jones. We had a long ride, my brother. Welcome the amazing Wes Hauch to THE FACELESS. He is a shredder."
Vocalist Derek Rydquist exited THE FACELESS in May 2011 and was replaced by Geoff Ficco (KAMIKABE, ORGONE). Rydquist explained his decision to exit the band by saying that he was "no longer emotionally or artistically fulfilled by being the vocalist for the group."
Finnish melodic death metallers EMBREACH will release their debut album, "Hues Of Red", on August 17. According to a press release, the CD contains songs "ranging from progressive death metal to mournful ballads."
The track listing for the effort is as follows:
01. Descent
02. The Night Beckons
03. Beneath The Waves
04. On That Day
05. Hue Of Red
06. We Must Not Wait
07. 451
08. …And Then Silence
09. Unmarred
EMBREACH previously released three EPs: "End Of The Line", "Her Grace" and "Deafening Silence".
EMBREACH is:
Sami Honkonen - Vocals
Jari Aarniala - Guitars
Toni Enqvist - Guitars
Jaakko Mäkilä - Bass
Jarno Vanhanen – Drums
The track listing for the effort is as follows:
01. Descent
02. The Night Beckons
03. Beneath The Waves
04. On That Day
05. Hue Of Red
06. We Must Not Wait
07. 451
08. …And Then Silence
09. Unmarred
EMBREACH previously released three EPs: "End Of The Line", "Her Grace" and "Deafening Silence".
EMBREACH is:
Sami Honkonen - Vocals
Jari Aarniala - Guitars
Toni Enqvist - Guitars
Jaakko Mäkilä - Bass
Jarno Vanhanen – Drums
Brazilian death metal veterans KRISIUN have re-signed with Century Media Records.
Commented the band: "We have been with [Century Media] since the year 2000 and I guess we've achieved a lot for an extreme metal band. Also we got nothing to complain about; we are living a hard moment for the phonographic industry, but we, just like them, will keep working hard to spread metal around the globe. Now it's a new era for us on the label and we are excited about this and we will push things even harder to make this a successful partnership."
Since KRISIUN's new deal with Century Media covers the band's entire back catalog, there are plans to reissue the group's early demo tapes in the fall. More information will be made available soon.
KRISIUN's latest album, "The Great Execution", was released on October 31, 2011 in Europe and November 1, 2011 in North America via Century Media Records. The band's eighth studio CD "musically expands KRISIUN trademark high-speed death metal violence with a heavily increased amount of diversity ranging from extreme tempo variations over distinct rhythm patterns to clean guitars and even Flamenco parts!" according to a press release. The cover artwork was created by Japanese artist Toshihiro Egawa who has been doing tons of great designs for acts like SUICIDE SILENCE, HEAVEN SHALL BURN, DEVOURMENT and DYING FETUS, among others.
"The Great Execution" was made available as a limited-edition digipack including a re-recorded version of the classic KRISIUN song "Black Force Domain" as a bonus track, as a 180-gram gatefold vinyl and as a digital download. The CD was recorded at Stage One Studio in Germany with producer Andy Classen, who previously worked with KRISIUN on the "Conquerors Of Armageddon" (1999), "AssasiNation" (2005) and "Southern Storm" (2008) releases.
Commented the band: "We have been with [Century Media] since the year 2000 and I guess we've achieved a lot for an extreme metal band. Also we got nothing to complain about; we are living a hard moment for the phonographic industry, but we, just like them, will keep working hard to spread metal around the globe. Now it's a new era for us on the label and we are excited about this and we will push things even harder to make this a successful partnership."
Since KRISIUN's new deal with Century Media covers the band's entire back catalog, there are plans to reissue the group's early demo tapes in the fall. More information will be made available soon.
KRISIUN's latest album, "The Great Execution", was released on October 31, 2011 in Europe and November 1, 2011 in North America via Century Media Records. The band's eighth studio CD "musically expands KRISIUN trademark high-speed death metal violence with a heavily increased amount of diversity ranging from extreme tempo variations over distinct rhythm patterns to clean guitars and even Flamenco parts!" according to a press release. The cover artwork was created by Japanese artist Toshihiro Egawa who has been doing tons of great designs for acts like SUICIDE SILENCE, HEAVEN SHALL BURN, DEVOURMENT and DYING FETUS, among others.
"The Great Execution" was made available as a limited-edition digipack including a re-recorded version of the classic KRISIUN song "Black Force Domain" as a bonus track, as a 180-gram gatefold vinyl and as a digital download. The CD was recorded at Stage One Studio in Germany with producer Andy Classen, who previously worked with KRISIUN on the "Conquerors Of Armageddon" (1999), "AssasiNation" (2005) and "Southern Storm" (2008) releases.
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