Wondering how Deep Purple's new orchestral tour will sound? Join the club.
"I'll be interested to find out myself," chuckles 65-year-old bassist Roger Glover from his home studio in Switzerland. "I really don't know. I'm not that involved with it, to be honest."
Glover has a good reason for being out of the loop -- he's been off the road for a few weeks, awaiting the birth of his overdue second daughter Melody. Luckily, she arrived just days before he had to head over to Canada to kick off Purple's ambitious new Songs That Build Rock tour, which adds a 38-piece orchestra to the British band's current lineup: Singer Ian Gillan, Glover, drummer Ian Paice, guitarist Steve Morse and keyboardist Don Airey.
But even if he hadn't been off playing daddy, Glover might still be in for a surprise on opening night, since the hardworking highway stars (they have a week off between their last tour and this one) never rehearse.
"Rehearse?" he laughs. "I don't even remember that word. We haven't rehearsed for years. We all know what we're doing. We're good musicians. So like most Purple things, it'll be done by the shirttails, and it'll somehow all fall together. Besides, if something goes wrong, people love it."
Between family business and packing shirttails, Glover filled me in on messing with fans' heads, maintaining traditions and which member is the soul of Deep Purple.
Why an orchestral tour?
Well, it's good to have a new hook to hang your coat on. We've toured so much and so many people have seen us. So we thought this was a different kind of challenge. We're best known for the old songs, so it's about time to try something a little different.
What is the orchestra going to add to songs like Highway Star, Hush and Smoke on the Water?
It'll be just bigger, I suppose. Still the riffs you know and the melodies you know, but bigger and more intricate. But the orchestral-symphonic idea sounds a bit more highfalutin' than it is. I think we're actually leaning more towards the jazz side of orchestral music rather than symphonic. So there will be an element of subversiveness in there.
I would think having to play with an orchestra might handcuff a band somewhat.
Well, there will be sections where that will happen. Obviously, there will be parts that will have to be played exactly right. But then, they're songs that people know and they want to hear them exactly right, anyway. But there won't be any compromises on our part. With orchestras, it's very difficult to get a balance, because rock bands are so loud. Well we're not that loud anymore. These days, we like to leave people with their hearing intact. Brains we don't care about, but hearing ...
You're starting the tour here. To what do we owe the honour?
You just drew the long straw. Actually, Canada has always been good to us. Strangely enough, America is a little tough these days. I don't think we've toured there for three or four years. Our profile has dipped a bit, I suppose. That's another reason for this tour. It's a way to generate a bit of interest again. We're working on a new album. We've had a writing session; we were in Spain for about nine days and came up with a bunch of good ideas which we'll work on later this year, and then come back with, presumably, a killer album.
It's been six years since your last record -- your longest break between albums when you weren't on hiatus. Is that because nobody buys albums anymore?
There's an element of that. There's been disagreement in the band about whether to do another album. They really don't make money any more. My opinion is that we are an album band and should make them even if it costs us money, because that's what we do. Maybe I'm a traditionalist, but I believe we should stay what we are. We can progress with our music, but the way we do it should be the way we've always done it. There's nothing wrong with that. An album is like capturing a moment in time. And in a band with a history like ours, those moments mean a lot.
Drummer Ian Paice is the only original member of the band now. Does he lord it over the rest of you?
Well, if (former keyboard player) Jon Lord was there, he would lord it over the rest of us. (Laughs) But funnily enough, since Jon left, Ian has almost unconsciously become the soul of the band. He doesn't throw his weight around or anything, but there's something about Paicey, a confidence that wasn't there 10 or 15 years ago. If he likes something, that's good enough for the band. But don't tell him I told you that!
Speaking of Jon Lord, is there any chance of luring him back for one more go?
Well, how do we phrase that to Don? No, I'm sure there will be a time when Jon will come back onstage with us, but it won't be for a tour or anything like that. He's not going to come back into the band. But he's still a friend and we still all get along very well.
Deep Purple Canadian tour dates
June 3 | Rama | Casino Rama
June 4 | Quebec City | Agora
June 6 | Montreal | Place des Arts
The most influential and ground-breaking progressive rock 'n' roll band in history, legendary rockers and Grammy Award winners YES, will release their first studio album in a decade, "Fly From Here", on July 1 in Europe and July 12 in North America through Frontiers Records. The group's long-awaited 20th studio LP is the follow up to 2001's "Magnification" and marks the band's reunion with producer Trevor Horn, who helmed YES' chart-topping 1983 album "90125" and also sang for YES on the "Drama" LP in 1980.
YES is Benoit David on vocals (his first studio recording with YES), Steve Howe on guitars/vocals, founder Chris Squire on bass/vocals, Geoff Downes on keyboards and Alan White on drums. Roger Dean, creator of a number of YES' most memorable album covers, also returns with his signature style for "Fly From Here".
"At last we have some shape and dynamics within these tracks that are truer to the
original idea of what a YES recording is about," proclaims Howe.
"The new album represents the best of YES from the '70s and the '80s with a current twist," Squire adds.
All of the songs on "Fly From Here" embody that classic and now iconic YES sound and style. The first single, "We Can Fly", (to be released digitally on June 13) is borne from a piece of music that was written prior to the "Fly" writing sessions — an idea that has now grown into an overture and five subsequent movements that feature the unparalleled musicianship and virtuoso talents that are synonymous with YES. From the first chord of "Fly From Here – Overture" to the last note of the album's closer "Into The Storm", there is no question that the unmistakable technical proficiency of YES carries on.
"It's awesome working with Trevor Horn again; he pays a lot of attention to detail. It was a great pleasure in the studio to play some incredible music with some great players," says White.
First formed in 1968, YES' remarkable career spans over 40 years and the band has time and again redefined the boundaries of rock music.
YES has sold nearly 50 million albums worldwide and continues to stretch the boundaries of progressive art-rock with their symphonic use of sound and innovative musical styles.
This summer, YES will return to the road to bring "Fly From Here" as well as some of their classic hits to their loyal following. European tour dates are scheduled for the fall.
"Fly From Here" track listing:
01. Fly From Here - Overture
02. Fly From Here - Pt. I - We Can Fly
03. Fly From Here - Pt. II - Sad Night At The Airfield
04. Fly From Here - Pt. III - Madman At The Screens
05. Fly From Here - Pt. IV - Bumpy Ride
06. Fly From Here - Pt. V - We Can Fly
07. The Man You Always Wanted Me To Be
08. Life On A Film Set
09. Hour Of Need
10. Solitaire
11. Into The Storm
"Fly From Here" will be released in four different configurations: CD, CD plus a bonus DVD including a documentary "Making of the Album" in digipak edition, a gatefold vinyl and a special box set limited edition including the CD, DVD, vinyl, t-shirt, poster, sticker and a lithograph of the cover art.
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/soulflypremiere/yesfly.jpg
The readers of Sweden Rock Magazine, the country's biggest-selling music magazine, have voted for the 50 greatest albums released in the past 10 years for the publication's 10-year-anniversary issue. The results show that Sweden is truly IRON MAIDEN country. Not only was "A Matter Of Life And Death" named the greatest album of the last decade, "Dance Of Death" came in at No. 2 and last year's "The Final Frontier" landed at No. 5.
"Wow, that's amazing," says IRON MAIDEN bassist Steve Harris. "There have been polls before where we've had albums in top 20 or top 10, but never before top one and two. Three albums in the top five is outrageous."
The June issue of Sweden Rock Magazine is on sale on June 14. In addition to an exclusive interview with Harris, former DISSECTION guitarist Set Teitan breaks his silence about his time in DISSECTION and on the band's swan song "Reinkaos", which was named ninth greatest album of the past 10 years.
Top 10 albums 2001-2011 as voted by the readers of Sweden Rock Magazine:
01. IRON MAIDEN - "A Matter Of Life And Death"
02. IRON MAIDEN - "Dance Of Death"
03. GHOST - "Opus Eponymous"
04. METALLICA - "Death Magnetic"
05. IRON MAIDEN - "The Final Frontier"
06. AC/DC - "Black Ice"
07. WATAIN - "Lawless Darkness"
08. KISS - "Sonic Boom"
09. DISSECTION - "Reinkaos"
10. AVANTASIA - "The Metal Opera"
METALLICA has been voted the most influential rock group of the last 30 years by the readers of the British magazine Kerrang!
METALLICA drummer Lars Ulrich said: "it gives me a very warm and fuzzy feeling that Kerrang! magazine have voted METALLICA as the band that most changed their lives.
"I remember the first issue of the magazine in 1981. I had made a pilgrimage to England because I was obsessed with the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal. I travelled all over the country and that first issue accompanied me everywhere."
Lars also paid tribute to IRON MAIDEN, which came in at No. 3 on the list. He said: "IRON MAIDEN have been the blueprint for everything that we have ever wanted to do."
The poll is included in the next issue of Kerrang! magazine, which celebrates 30 years since the magazine launched in June 1981.
The most influential rock groups of the last 30 years, as voted by the readers of Kerrang!:
01. METALLICA
02. GREEN DAY
03. IRON MAIDEN
04. SLIPKNOT
05. MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE
06. LINKIN PARK
07. BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE
08. BLINK 182
09. OZZY OSBOURNE
10. FOO FIGHTERS
DIO DISCIPLES, the new project featuring former DIO members Simon Wright (drums), Craig Goldy (guitar) and Scott Warren (keyboards) alongside bassist James Lomenzo (MEGADETH, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY, WHITE LION) and singers Tim "Ripper" Owens (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, BEYOND FEAR, JUDAS PRIEST, ICED EARTH) and Toby Jepson (LITTLE ANGELS, GUN), will embark on a full U.S. tour in September. Exact cities and dates will be announced soon.
DIO DISCIPLES' European tour will kick off in early June.
Commented Wright: "We are in rehearsal at the moment getting ready to embark on our first European tour.
"It's been very weird and a little emotional getting through the songs without Ronnie. I keep hearing him saying, in my head, 'Let's try that part again,' and 'OK, let's run the set... It helps to remind me that we have to keep playing and get the job done.
"As [Ronnie's wife/manager] Wendy [Dio] said, 'There will never be another Ronnie James Dio.' Absolutely 100 percent right.
"As we know, though, first and foremost Ron was a musician, and loved having a band and the music came first. With that in mind, we all sat down talked and discussed the possibility of doing the DIO DISCIPLES project. The most important point was to be able to bring Ronnie's brilliant songs to the fans and celebrate them in the best way we know how in a live show with all of you. Just as important is that while you read this we are doing this from the heart and for all the right reasons.
"Ron was like a father to me and over the years we became best friends.
"I'm not trying to one-up anybody here; there are lots of people who loved Ron, especially, and, of course, Wendy, but this band is something I feel very strongly about and positive about.
"I wish we didn't have to do this project; I miss Ron every day, but something tells me he would want us to carry on, work hard and continue bringing you, the fans, his music."
German "metal queen" Doro Pesch will be filling in for Owens on the following DIO DISCIPLES tour dates:
June 29 - Milan, Italy @ Magazzini Generali
July 01 - Bilbao, Spain @ Rockstar Live
July 02 - Madrid, Spain @ Heineken
July 03 - Barcelona, Spain @ Bikini
Owens will be unable to make the Italian and Spanish shows as he will be attending his daughter's wedding.
Wright (AC/DC, DIO, UFO, MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP, RHINO BUCKET) played drums in DIO for 1990's "Lock Up The Wolves" album. He left the band in 1991 when Ronnie James Dio rejoined BLACK SABBATH. Wright returned to DIO in 1999 and remained the band's drummer until Ronnie's death. Vinny Appice was the DIO drummer from 1993 to 1999.
On guitar is longtime DIO member Craig Goldy (ROUGH CUTT, GIUFFRIA, DAVID LEE ROTH, DIO) who made his DIO debut on 1987's "Dream Evil" album.
On keyboards is 15-year DIO and HEAVEN & HELL veteran Scott Warren. Scott made his DIO debut on 1996's "Angry Machines" album.
On bass is the multi-talented James Lomenzo (MEGADETH, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY, SLASH'S SNAKEPIT, HAIL!, WHITE LION, DAVID LEE ROTH).
On vocals is Tim "Ripper" Owens (JUDAS PRIEST, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN'S RISING FORCE, BEYOND FEAR, ICED EARTH, HAIL!, CHARRED WALLS OF THE DAMNED).
Joining Owens on vocals from Manchester, U.K. is Toby Jepson (LITTLE ANGELS, FASTWAY, GUN, TOBY AND THE WHOLE TRUTH).
Legendary rock band KISS walked onto stage and rocked the crowd Sunday night at Raley Field at a benefit concert for children sponsored by Hope Foundation. As if emerging from Mount Olympus, each of these rock icons entered the stage: Eric Singer, Catman; Tommy Thayer, Spaceman; Gene Simmons, The Demon and Paul Stanley, Starchild.
Opening bands Miles Schon and Big Boss Graffiti set the stage for the magnificent musical journey that was to come. Almost immediately following BBG's last song, the crowd began chanting, "WE WANT KISS! WE WANT KISS! WE WANT KISS!"
Almost instantaneously after taking the stage, Paul Stanley sang out, "You said you wanted the best band, you got it- KISS!"
They masterfully took their diehard army of rock fans on a musical journey spanning 38 years. From the very first album, starting with "Modern Day Delilah" and culminating with "Let Me Go Rock N Roll," they performed with the sort of music mastery, pyrotechnics, flames and fireworks that only they could deliver.
The only thing more astounding than their humility, compassion and generosity during meet and greets with fans is their philanthropy. KISS had four MINI Coopers customized to reflect each of their characters and put them up for auction on eBay, all proceeds going to Japan's relief effort.
Eric Singer was gracious enough to grant an interview to Marc McLaughlin (Sacramento Press) before rushing off to makeup.
Interview with Eric Singer (drums, vocals)
Marc McLaughlin: How does it feel to be doing a charity event for children (Walk 'N Rock for Kids)?
Eric Singer: It's cool. I mean, everyone has to make a living, but when you can do what you love to do, make a living at it and also help people, it feels wonderful. I can do things that help people and I think that is really important. Then, when you add that it is for kids, it makes it even better. As you know, KISS does a lot of work with wounded soldiers and it is amazing being able to help them whenever we can.
MM: How does it feel to be a part of such an iconic band?
ES: Although I am not an original member, it really is an amazing feeling. This is a band that people recognize whether they know the music or not. The band is known world-wide; when we travel to Europe, it is just amazing how many people come out to see us. Being with people like Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, two original members, [makes you] realize that this band transcends generations and really touches people. Well, ultimately, your audience is what helps put you in a positive position. Without a fan base, you have nothing; however, you have to keep yourself there by delivering the music, the shows and the performances.
I always tell people, "You vote through participation in life."
If someone decides they don't like the product, service or the way they are treated, they will stop buying the product. Eventually, the company would have to redesign it or come up with a new product to keep their audience. This is true of anything, so your actions and your work need to be on target to keep you in business.
MM: Speaking of that, how does it feel now that the band is experiencing another reemergence in the music industry?
ES: Every band goes through their up and downs and their support comes in waves, so it is normal for us. It is nice though, seeing people still want to be around us and coming out to see this iconic band. Whenever you have people who support what you do, it feels good and we are just so supportive of that. Without our fans we would not be here, and knowing they support us is the ultimate compliment.
MM: KISS is known for their makeup most of all. How is it sitting there and actually having it applied - does it become a role you slip into or is it just one more thing that must be done?
ES: Yes, the makeup is something we are known more for than anything else. Some know the "monster" while others know the "star." It is all a part of who we are. Because of that, the process is something that can not be explained. It takes a couple of hours to get ready and the makeup is a closely guarded secret. When I first started doing it, it felt strange to take on a role like that; becoming something so known, so iconic. Even after all this time, it is still the same. You become part of the character and you use that to entertain the fans.
Even with these interviews it is part of what we do. For this we flew in early so we could spend some time with the press. You know, Gene and Paul have been doing this since the beginning and they still go the extra mile and speak to people when asked. It is a part of what makes the band who they are. The work ethic is very high and an important part of what we do. Everyone does their part to keep things moving forward. Many bands of lesser levels do not put the time in and that is part of the reason why our fan base is as deep and supportive as it is.
MM: If there was one thing you would like to say to your fan base today, what would that be?
ES: I guess just keep doing what you are doing. It is a give and take, a mutual participation thing. One thing I learned in life is that you can't make everyone happy. You appeal to the majority by trying to find the ground that works for most. We thank the fans who come out and support us and continue to believe in this iconic band. Whether they have followed us for a day or 35 years, they are the reason we do what we do.
MM: Thank you for your time today and for supporting Walk 'N Rock.
ES: Thank you and hopefully this will help the children of the community. We appreciate your time, and enjoy the concert.
Regretfully, the time came for Paul Stanley to attempt to say goodnight to the fans, who were simply not ready to let go. They chanted for an encore, and suddenly, KISS was back on stage to thrill the audience with "Black Diamond," "Shout It Out Loud" and "Detroit Rock City." Finally, an unbelievable night of charity for Hope Foundation finished with "Rock and Roll All Night."
At first glance, the signature leather hat, worn in true rock n roll fashion over black, stylish hair, along with the denim, leather and chains, could catch glances from across the room. Add a pair of Chuck's (because they're comfy and cool), a great sense of humor and you find there's a fair amount of humility as well as fun-loving that's undeniable. There's lots of ink; intricate, detailed, colorful tattoos woven together that tell many stories from many years of his life adventures. He's younger at heart than most people that have lived this life end up feeling at this point, that's for certain.
But underneath all the glam of a rising hard-rock-guitar icon, who's now toting Les Paul's by the hundreds, is a man with a dream of writing and playing kick-ass guitar solos and making a difference in the world. He's one of the most dynamic, energetic and fun performers you'll see on a stage, and by all means, one of the most unforgettable.
Whether in an arena with GNR or in the studio with Nikki Sixx and James Michael, internationally renowned, award winning guitarist DJ Ashba takes his work very seriously, but still knows how to have fun, all while catching glances and listeners from across the globe.
Aside from a recent signature DJ Ashba guitar deal with Gibson, he has an Ovation signature guitar and many other things in the works. Having contributed both songwriting and producing with artists such as Neil Diamond, Motley Crue, Drowning Pool, Run DMC, Marion Raven, and Aimee Allen, DJ's almost always occupied with something massively creative.
He writes, produces, co-writes, co-produces and all while maintaining his own Ashbaland Studios and Ashba Media Inc.(AMI). His creative design company, AMI, won the hearts and minds of Virgin Megastores and he's single handedly responsible for the awesome look and feel of every VM store. Not bad for a kid that moved to LA in a van at age eighteen.
We spent some time talking about the new Sixx A.M. CD, This Is Gonna Hurt, how it's tied to the book (and how it isn't), producing and recording, and even about some fun Guns N Roses memories from the tours, as well as his Gibson Les Paul endorsement.
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Angela Villand: How does that feel to sit there and tell me about your record becoming the # 1 album in the United States?
DJ Ashba: [Laughing] It feels good, it feels really good. I'm excited, might have to kick my dog or something.
Angela: Did you call and tell your mom already?
DJ Ashba: No I haven't yet, I'm going to, probably – you know, my mom, she's just really religious so she'll probably say "Oh, well that's good honey." It won't be a big deal, probably.
Angela: There's a lot of great music coming out this year in all genres of music; Rock, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Prog Metal, Death Metal, and so on. But Sixx A.M. doesn't really fit into any genre and that's one of the things I really like about it. You guys have that creative license to do whatever the hell you want with your music…you can write about anything, you can make any kind of style you want.
DJ Ashba: We're very fortunate. I mean, with Sixx A.M. it was never about creating a band or writing for radio. So basically it was just a great artistic outlet for all three of us as song writers and producers to say "You know what? This is a great opportunity to sit back with two of my best friends and create music and just be as artsy as we wanna be.
The fact that people actually like it and it ended up on radio is just a big shock to all three of us. We're scratching our heads, saying "Fuck, we should've done this years ago!" But I think that if you're true to yourself as an artist, you know, I really think, no matter what the outcome is, if this record had never done anything, I would still be super proud of it.
Click to Buy The Heroin Diaries from Amazon
Angela: With Nikki's first book, The Heroin Diaries, the CD resounded what we read in the book; a definitive shadow of events, feelings, situations, etc. that we'd all experienced in the story Nikki wrote. Now with this new book, it's different, it's artistic and this time around, the Sixx A.M. CD is not a soundtrack at all, but it is inspired and very relevant to the book and also vice versa. Tell me how the music on the new CD and the new Nikki Sixx book relate to each other?
DJ Ashba: With the photography – they've kind of inspired each other; you know there are some pictures that inspired certain songs, like "Lies of the Beautiful People." There are certain songs that inspired Nikki to go out and set up a photo shoot and shoot pictures around that song. I think we just kind of used one platform to inspire the other; it was kind of a mutual thing.
With Heroin Diaries , obviously, we were trying to bring Nikki's diaries to life musically. We were also searching for the sound of Sixx A.M. because at that point, we really didn't know what Sixx A.M. was going to be or what we were going to sound like; we were just having fun. So I think with this record, we had the opportunity to say "Ok we found the sound for Sixx A.M. and now we can focus more on songs and lyrical content and just really dive in and try to step up our performances, and really make this just all around a much better record in that aspect.
Angela: Describe this CD in comparison to the first Sixx A.M. CD, for someone that may have heard the first one and liked it but is apprehensive, curious, and clueless about the new CD. How is it different? How is it the same?
DJ Ashba: I would say that there are a lot of differences in it. Like I said, we really tried to up the songwriting, the production, and the lyrical content and we focused a lot harder on the overall message on this album. The Heroin Diaries showed the whole "animal" in itself, and I was doing really quirky orchestra music for it, like "Life After Death," and "Xmas in Hell," and "Intermission." With this one, we started out writing some "circus-y" type stuff for it, and then when we got in the studio, we just felt like we'd been down that road. We said "You know what – we gotta do something different with this."
The Heroin Diaries deserves to be what it was, and it's a special album. I felt like we were kind of cheapening The Heroin Diaries if we went down the same road. So I said "Ya know what, let's leave The Heroin Diaries as it is, that's a special thing." And on this one, we all decided to focus more on the songs and the song writing. Now we know that radio is accepting Sixx A.M. and the fans "get it." Let's dive even deeper, let's push it musically just a little harder. I'm super proud of the record; I think it's some of the best guitar playing I've ever done in my life and I'm just really proud of it.
Angela: Do you have any favorite tracks on the album, any that were especially fun to write or play? What particularly do you like about the songs that do stand out to you?
DJ Ashba: I love "Goodbye My Friend." That song is a musical journey, it's very theatrical sounding and it's just a lot of fun. The guitar solo was really fun to play and the overall message is cool. There's so many though: "Lies of the Beautiful People" is such a fun song – the riffs in it are cool. "This is Gonna Hurt" is another one where the riffs are just really fun to play. You know, that's the thing with each one of these songs, they're all so different, but we really (all three of us) sunk our heart and soul into each song.
I think that's why it's an album you can listen to, from beginning to end, and you don't get bored. It's just a really solid record from start to finish. That's kind of a rare thing, usually especially, by chance, people are downloading singles, you know. The fact that we kind of focused on an overall album and a concept and were not really worried about "OK, here's our single." I think there are many songs on this record that could be singles.
Click to Buy Sixx AM This is Gonna Hurt from Amazon
Angela: Do you consider This Is Gonna Hurt to be a concept album in nature then?
DJ Ashba: It's been called all kinds of things; it's been called a soundtrack, which – I'm telling everyone, right now – it is not a soundtrack. It's definitely married to the photography book in a way to where they complement each other, but they can both stand on their own. Nikki's photography, obviously, is very cool and twisted and it's a great book to go pick up and check out the pictures and there are a lot of great stories and it stands on its own. Then I think the album, since they're calling it a soundtrack, which it isn't, deserves a lot more than that, because it's a really good body of songs.
Angela: Did you write music/songs based on the photographs or vice versa?
DJ Ashba: They happened both ways. We started originally writing a lot of the music when Nikki was on tour with Motley. Me and James flew out and hung out, we all sat in the hotel room and we wrote a lot of the record just sitting in a hotel room. Then I went on tour with Guns N Roses, and in between my breaks I'd come back in and get a lot done. Every song is different. You know, Sixx A.M. has never done things by the book; it's always been – Nikki you know will, maybe, call me.
I remember he called me one time and said, "Dude, do you have a guitar close by?" I was driving down the freeway and I had a guitar in the backseat. I pulled off to the side and he was like hummin' me a melody and I'm sittin' there on the side of the freeway in my car with a guitar tryin' to play. There's been times I've called Nikki and goin' "Dude, where are you at?" or "Check this fuckin lyric out," and he'd be writing it down on a napkin at Coffee Bean.
We don't do things conventionally at all; we don't rush things, we build off of inspiration. You just never know when you're gonna be inspired, and with us it's so random. We might be at Disneyland and think "Oh my god, I've got the best song idea," you know?
Angela: Let's talk about your contributions with song writing (11 songs) with the Motley Crue album, Saints of Los Angeles . You also Co-produced the CD. What does "co-producing" mean, precisely, especially in this case, where there's more than one person with more than one studio on the whole mix? James has his studio in TN, you have Ashbaland studios, and both were used, so tell me about the coordination and orchestration of the Motley album.
DJ Ashba: Co-producing just means you're one of the producers and there's more than one producer on a record. I co-produced the album with James and Nikki. We do everything from hitting the record button to getting amp sounds to scheduling studio time for the guys to come in. We were running Ashbaland Studios and we had James' studio going.
Out of the two different studios, we did all the guitars and bass at my studio, and we went up and did the drums at Tommy's house. Then we came back and flew in our own drum samples and stuff; we captured his live performance, and then Vince did all the vocals at James's studio. So, we're all running two studios together just to move the project along quicker.
Click to Check out the DJ Ashba Ovation Guitar at Musician's Friend
Angela: You spent quite a bit of time with GNR and Axl. Did you come home with any hilarious or epic stories?
DJ Ashba: Oh, there are so many funny times. Oh my god, I'm tryin' to think, man – with all the chaos that went on, there are so many good ones.
Angela: Did you pull pranks on each other?
DJ Ashba: Definitely, yeah we do. I remember there was a time when me and Axl got in a bar fight. We kicked the livin' shit outta this dude. [Laughing] First of all, he snuck into this private after show party that was just held for the band and the crew. So it was this drunk, obnoxious guy, big dude. He walks in and he's telling everyone there he's our manager and we're like "What the fuck is he talking about?" Anyway, he was asked to leave several times and didn't. He actually turned around at one point and punched one of our tour managers. I saw it so I grabbed the guy by his throat and slammed him up against the wall and I said, "You need to fuckin' leave now!"
I walked him over to the door, and he turned around and punched me in the face, so I just started unloading on him. Axl saw him hit me and flipped and jumped in, so we're stompin' this guy to a pulp, but it was all in good fun. Then, what was funny about it is, about three hours later we get done partyin', went up and the guy's a bloody mess sittin' in the lobby. We walk up and he apologizes for being a douchebag and then he asks if he can get pictures with us and autographs. So we're taking pictures with this guy we literally kicked the shit out of. It was all good; we all laughed about it at the end, he even laughed. He was like "Yeah, it was my fault. I was bein' a total dick." It was one of those things where it was just a funny moment.
Angela: Tell me about your guitars; how many do you have? How many go on the road with you? Is there something at Les Paul in the works for you?
DJ Ashba: I have well over 100 guitars and I take about 17 Les Pauls with me. I have my own signature model with Ovation, which is the Limited-Edition DJ Ashba Demented Guitar . But the cool thing is, I just got a call from Gibson and they are now working on a Signature DJ Ashba guitar. That's really just a dream-come-true for me; it's just a big honor to have Les Paul make a guitar for me.
Legendary Seattle rock band SOUNDGARDEN — in the group's only U.S. festival appearance of the year — is the first headliner to be announced for the 2011 The Voodoo Experience Presented By Stephen Rehage. Voodoo — the final musical celebration of the annual U.S. music festival season — is set to take place in New Orleans' City Park, Friday, October 28, Saturday, October 29 and Sunday, October 30.
The lineup for Voodoo's 13th consecutive year will be unveiled in the months leading up to the Halloween weekend celebration. The talent will once again feature top-tier and innovative artists from a variety of musical genres, plus reflect the multitude of cultures that define this historic and beloved American city. This year's Voodoo will continue to grow its dedicated dance space, Le Plur, which was reintroduced to concert-goers last year and quickly became a fan favorite.
This year's Voodoo will once again partner with Gingerbread Shed Corporation, producers of the powerful Elevate platform for festival ticketing, gate management, and advanced distribution and marketing solutions for their ticketing needs.
Tickets for the 2011 Voodoo are available now at this location utilizing Elevate's easy online shopping experience — with helpful customer service — that allows buyers to print their own tickets. A limited number of pre-sale tickets are available through June 8 at these prices: three-day weekend GA tickets are $125; LOA Lounge VIP three-day pass are $375 and LOA Lounge VIP three-day pass with parking are $425. In addition, concert-goers can utilize the Voodoo EZ Pay on any ticket purchase over $300. EZ Pay features three equal layaway payments — the first deduction will be made the day of purchase with two subsequent payments to process on the same day of each subsequent month until the ticket(s) are paid in full.
Voodoo annually takes place in historic City Park, amid lush lagoons, bayous and one of the largest collections of mature oak trees in the world. The 1,300-acre park — the region's principal recreation site that attracts over 7 million visits each year — has been home to the Voodoo since its 1999 debut, with the exception of 2005 Voodoo which was displaced by the city's hurricane damage.
According to Undercover, ROSE TATTOO's manager Greg Clarke died in Sydney from a suspected heart attack. He had only just turned 50 in April.
Greg has been tour manager and front-of-house engineer for ROSE TATTOO since January 2006.
ROSE TATTOO guitarist Mick Cocks died in December 2009 from a short battle with liver cancer.
Another ROSE TATTOO guitarist, Pete Wells, passed away in March 2006 after a long battle with prostate cancer.
"Rev-Raptor", the new album from U.D.O., the German metal band led by former ACCEPT frontman Udo Dirkschneider, has registered the following first-week chart positions:
Switzerland: #57
Germany: #20
Sweden: #26
"Rev-Raptor" was released on May 20 via AFM Records. The effort was made available in the following formats:
* CD (Jewel Case)
* CD (Digipak)
* CD (Japan)
* Vinyl black
* Vinyl green
* Limited Box (more details below)
The digipak contains the two bonus tracks "Time Dilator" and "Heavy Metal W:O:A" plus the videos for "Leatherhead" and the second single, "I Give As Good As I Get".
The Japanese version of "Rev-Raptor" includes the bonus tracks "Stormbreaker" and "Bodyworld".
The green-vinyl edition of "Rev-Raptor" is limited to 200 copies and available exclusively via Nuclear Blast mailorder.
Here are the details of the different "Rev-Raptor" versions:
CD Jewel Case:
01. Rev-Raptor
02. Leatherhead
03. Renegade
04. I Give As Good As I Get
05. Dr. Death
06. Rock'N'Roll Soldiers
07. Terrorvision
08. Underworld
09. Pain Man
10. Fairy Tales Of Victory
11. Motor-Borg
12. True Born Winners
13. Days Of Hope And Glory
CD DigiPak:
01. Rev-Raptor
02. Leatherhead
03. Renegade
04. I Give As Good As I Get
05. Dr. Death
06. Rock'N'Roll Soldiers
07. Terrorvision
08. Underworld
09. Pain Man
10. Fairy Tales Of Victory
11. Motor-Borg
12. True Born Winners
13. Time Dilator (Bonus)
14. Days Of Hope And Glory
15. Heavy Metal W:O:A (Bonus)
16. I Give As Good As I Get (Video)
17. Leatherhead (Video)
CD Japan:
01. Rev-Raptor
02. Leatherhead
03. Renegade
04. I Give As Good As I Get
05. Dr. Death
06. Rock'N'Roll Soldiers
07. Terrorvision
08. Underworld
09. Pain Man
10. Fairy Tales Of Victory
11. Motor-Borg
12. True Born Winners
13. Stormbreaker (Bonus)
14. Bodyworld (Bonus)
15. Days Of Hope And Glory
Vinyl:
01. Rev-Raptor
02. Leatherhead
03. Renegade
04. I Give As Good As I Get
05. Rock'N'Roll Soldiers
06. Terrorvision
07. Underworld
08. Pain Man
09. Motor-Borg
10. True Born Winners
11. Days Of Hope And Glory
There will also be a "Limited Box" edition (1,000 copies only) with the following content:
* "Rev-Raptor" digipak
* U.D.O. belt
* U.D.O. buckle
* U.D.O. flask with lasered logo
The recordings for "Rev-Raptor" took place between June 2010 and February 2011 at Roxx studios (owned by U.D.O. guitarist and ex-ACCEPT drummer Stefan Kaufmann) in Pulheim, Germany. The CD was mastered by Manfred Melchior at MM Sound Digital studios in Steinhagen, Germany. The album's cover artwork is once again a comic-like motif: but the "Dominator" character is this time "a lot more effectual and colorful," according to a press release.
"Rev-Raptor" was originally scheduled for release in January but was delayed by the back problems experienced by Kaufmann, the same issue that forced him to quit playing drums for ACCEPT back in the day. Stefan recently received medical treatment for this condition and had recovered enough to have played with the band on November 6, 2010 at the Rock Antenne festival at Schwabenhalle in Augsburg.
U.D.O. released a new single, "Leatherhead", on April 8 via AFM Records.
U.D.O.'s last album, "Dominator", entered the official chart in Germany at position No. 27.
MÖTLEY CRÜE drummer Tommy Lee and DJ Aero will take part in an electronic music cruise called "Holy Ship!" which sets sail on January 6, 2012 from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida for four days.
"From poolside to dancefloor to your own private cabin, this once-in-a-lifetime experience redefines luxury in music," according to a press release.
Tickets go on sale on June 15.
For more information, visit www.holyship.com.
SLIPKNOT is the subject of a new photo exhibition being held in London, England next month.
Taking place as part of Kerrang!'s 30th birthday celebrations, "Kerrang! Presents: Slipknot - A Photographic Exhibition by Paul Harries Sponsored By Relentless Energy Drink" will be held at the Strand Gallery at 32 John Adam Street, London WC2 from July 12 to July 24.
The show will feature over 60 photographs spanning Paul Harries' 12 years of unparalleled access to the Iowan metal legends. And admission to the exhibition is completely free.
"SLIPKNOT is not always the easiest band to capture in the true essence of photography and also not very easy to work with in the photo environment," admits Shawn Crahan, a.k.a. SLIPKNOT's Clown. "Paul Harries has always been able to capture the band in its true form and has also been able to put up with all our bullshit that surrounds us night and day. Look at 'the 'KNOT' as seen through the eyes of a true photographer, artist and friend."
Paul will be available at the gallery on Saturday, July 16 from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. to share stories behind the images and discuss his photography.
"It has been great to be a part of the SLIPKNOT circus over the last 12 years," says Paul. "Such a visual and exciting band like this is a gift for a photographer like me, although they are often unpredictable! I am looking forward to seeing this collection of shots on display in a gallery setting."
Swedish progressive metallers OPETH will release their tenth album, "Heritage", on September 20 via Roadrunner Records. The CD was produced by OPETH vocalist/guitarist Mikael Åkerfeldt and was recorded earlier this year at Atlantis studios (formerly Metronome studios) in Stockholm. Mixing duties were handled by Steven Wilson (PORCUPINE TREE) and Åkerfeldt. Longtime collaborator Travis Smith also worked with Åkerfeldt to create, design and execute the album's artwork, which can be seen below.
"Heritage" will be released in several configurations that will certainly incite the interest of OPETH's legion of fans, known for their passion for collecting and collectibles. The album will be released as a standard version; as a special edition loaded with extras; as a box set exclusive to the Roadrunner and the band's own official Omerch webstore; and as a double LP. There is something for every OPETH fan, thanks to this variety of options.
Commented Åkerfeldt, "It will be our 10th album/observation. I dig it; we all do. In fact, it feels like I've been building up to write for and participate on an album like this since I was 19."
Åkerfeldt went a little deeper and described the music contained within "Heritage", saying, "It's quite intense at times in some 'old' murky way, and quite beautiful and stark at times, if I may say so myself.
"It's obvious I'm going to say nice things about it since I wrote, basically, the whole piece, but I guess it will raise a few eyebrows and it certainly is an acquired taste.
"I think you'll need a slightly deeper understanding of our music as a whole to be able to appreciate this record.
"I've realized my influences for this album are so diverse that I can't really say what it sounds like.
"If I can compare it to any other band, it would have to be OPETH, but it's different from the stuff we've done before.
"I've listened a lot to ALICE COOPER for the last year, yet I can't say it sounds like 'No More Mr. Nice Guy'.
"I hope you'll like it once you hear it."
"Heritage" track listing:
01. Heritage
02. The Devil's Orchard
03. I Feel The Dark
04. Slither
05. Nepenthe
06. Haxprocess
07. Famine
08. The Lines In My Hand
09. Folklore
10. Marrow Of The Earth
The first single and video from "Heritage" will be the song "The Devil's Orchard".
OPETH will embark on a seven-week, headline tour of the U.S. Dates will be announced imminently.
OPETH's last album, "Watershed" (2008), sold more than 19,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 23 on The Billboard 200 chart. Its predecessor, "Ghost Reveries", debuted at No. 64 on the Billboard chart back in September 2005 with first-week sales of just under 15,000. OPETH's 2003 album, "Damnation", opened with a little over 5,000 copies.
Keyboardist Per Wiberg was relieved of his duties as a member of OPETH last month as part of a mutual decision with the band. Keyboard duties on upcoming tours will be handled by a musician who is already rehearsing with the group. Said musician's identity will be released at a later date.
Åkerfeldt released the following statement on the matter: "Well, it's been somewhat of a revolving door of members during the last couple of years, and now Per is no longer a member. [Martin] Mendez [bass], Axe [Martin Axenrot, drums] and Fredrik [Åkesson, guitar] and I came to the decision that we should find a replacement for Per right after the recordings of the new album, and this came as no surprise to Per. He had, in turn, been thinking about leaving, so you could say it was a mutual decision. There's no bad blood, just a relationship that came to an end, and that's that. We wish Per the best, and he did a splendid job recording keyboards for the last record, which stands as his final recording with OPETH."
As part of the celebration of their 20th anniversary, OPETH released live footage and audio from the band's performance at London's famed Royal Albert Hall. The concert (recorded on April 5, 2010) included two sets, the first consisting of the band performing 2000's now-classic, breakthrough epic "Blackwater Park" in its entirety, and the second, a chronologically arranged selection of material from the rest of OPETH's extensive catalogue, totaling almost three hours of music. "In Live Concert At The Royal Albert Hall" is, like the rest of OPETH's greatest work, "purposefully warped in all the right places" (Decibel). The front cover artwork concept pays tribute to DEEP PURPLE's "Concerto for Group and Orchestra", underlining the band's longstanding love for their prog-rock roots.
On June 14, Warner Bros. Records will release the album to the hotly anticipated motion picture "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" — the third film in the Oscar-nominated summer blockbuster "Transformers" series, which hits theaters nationwide on June 29.
Released in Standard, iTunes Deluxe, and Game Stop configurations, the "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" album features music from LINKIN PARK, MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE, TAKING BACK SUNDAY, ART OF DYING, THEORY OF A DEADMAN, BLACK VEIL BRIDES, SKILLET and MASTODON (who contribute a cover of ZZ TOP's "Just Got Paid"), as well as new music from PARAMORE and GOO GOO DOLLS debuting exclusively on the album. The iTunes Deluxe edition also includes tracks from BIFFY CLYRO, STONE SOUR, and SERJ TANKIAN, while the Game Stop version includes songs from MIDDLE CLASS RUT and D.R.U.G.S.
Contributing the song "Iridescent" (which also appears on LINKIN PARK's 2010 album "A Thousand Suns") to "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" is LINKIN PARK's third time working with "Transformers" director Michael Bay. The first "Transformers" film featured the band's smash hit single "What I've Done", which rocketed to No. 1 on both Billboard's Mainstream Rock and Modern Rock charts, while the second film featured the specially written "New Divide", which topped the Rock, Modern, and Mainstream radio charts simultaneously.
Opening in theaters on June 29, "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" stars Shia LaBeouf, John Turturro, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Patrick Dempsey, and Kevin Dunn, with John Malkovich and Frances McDormand. Shia LaBeouf returns as Sam Witwicky. When a mysterious event from Earth's past erupts into the present day it threatens to bring a war to Earth so big that the "Transformers" alone will not be able to save us.
The track-listings for the three editions of "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" album are as follows:
Standard Edition (CD/DMD All DSPS)
* LINKIN PARK - "Iridescent" (Exclusive Remix)
* PARAMORE - "Monster" ?
* MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE - "The Only Hope For Me Is You"?
* TAKING BACK SUNDAY - "Faith (When I Let You Down)"
* STAIND - "The Bottom"
* ART OF DYING - "Get Thru This"?
* GOO GOO DOLLS - "All That You Are"
* THEORY OF A DEADMAN - "Head Above Water"
* BLACK VEIL BRIDES - "Set The World On Fire"?
* SKILLET - "Awake & Alive" (Exclusive Remix)
* MASTODON - "Just Got Paid"
iTunes Deluxe (Exclusive)
* LINKIN PARK - "Iridescent" (Exclusive Remix)
* PARAMORE - "Monster"?
* MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE - "The Only Hope For Me Is You"?
* TAKING BACK SUNDAY - "Faith (When I Let You Down)"
* STAIND - "The Bottom"
* ART OF DYING - "Get Thru This"
* GOO GOO DOLLS - "All That You Are"
* THEORY OF A DEADMAN - "Head Above Water"
* BLACK VEIL BRIDES - "Set The World On Fire"?
* SKILLET - "Awake & Alive" (Exclusive Remix)?
* MASTODON - "Just Got Paid"?
Exclusive to Deluxe Version:
* BIFFY CLYRO - "Many Of Horror" ?
* STONE SOUR - "The Pessimist"?
* SERJ TANKIAN - "Gate 21" (Remix – Feat. Tom Morello)??
Game Stop (Exclusive)
* LINKIN PARK - "Iridescent" (Exclusive Remix)
* PARAMORE - "Monster"?
* MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE - "The Only Hope For Me Is You"?
* TAKING BACK SUNDAY - "Faith (When I Let You Down)"
* STAIND - "The Bottom"*
* ART OF DYING - "Get Thru This"
* GOO GOO DOLLS - "All That You Are"
* THEORY OF A DEADMAN - "Head Above Water"
* BLACK VEIL BRIDES - "Set The World On Fire"?
* SKILLET - "Awake & Alive" (Exclusive Remix)?
* MASTODON - "Just Got Paid"?
Exclusive to Game Stop Version:
* MIDDLE CLASS RUT - "Lifelong Dayshift"
* D.R.U.G.S. - "Graveyard Dancing"
Sven Soderlund, guitarist and vocalist for the legendary '80s thrash band MERCENARY, has joined the San Francisco-based traditional hard rock/heavy metal act MIDNIGHT CHASER as the group's second guitarist.
Commented Soderlund: "I have put the recording of MERCENARY S.F.'s debut release on the backburner for now as a few people have been doing other projects as of late.
"Playing in [MIDNIGHT CHASER] has brought back a lot of cool memories of when I listened to NWOBHM style metal when I was 14! I think that playing in a traditional style metal band has made me appreciate how simplicity in riffs can really be challenging because you're not always keen to it. Playing so fast all the time, you're losing some of the feel to a large degree."
Heavy Artillery Records has announced the signing of San Francisco traditional hard rock and heavy metal purveyors MIDNIGHT CHASER. The band's debut album is tentatively due in February 2011.
Forged in the blast furnaces of Pittsburgh and tempered in the waters of the San Francisco Bay comes a new force in the art of badass; enter MIDNIGHT CHASER! Influenced by the gods of '70s and '80s hard rock and heavy metal, MIDNIGHT CHASER was originally conceived of by guitarist Stephen Lauck and bassist "Texas" Josh Hunt while both still living in Pittsburgh, the Rust Belt of Pennsylvania. However it wasn't until both rockers found themselves relocated to the fog-cloaked Bay Area of California that MIDNIGHT CHASER began to take shape.
First recruiting the steam hammer drumming skills of Brandon Thomas, the pair immediately knew that they had found the missing piece of their rhythm section that they had been searching for. All that was lacking now was a voice that could suitably realize their ambitions. Unsatisfied with the pool of vocal talent in their new surroundings they imported fellow Pittsburgh native Scott Atwood in order to complete the original lineup of MIDNIGHT CHASER.
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/midnightchasermetal.
American rock band POP EVIL has inked a worldwide deal with eOne Music. The band's long-awaited new album, "War Of Angles", will be released on July 5. The CD is being helmed by Grammy Award-nominated producer/engineer Johnny K, who has previously worked with MEGADETH, DISTURBED and SOIL, among others.
According to a press release, POP EVIL went as far as to tear up its old record contract on stage during the band's performance at the Rock On The Range festival last month before announcing its new home. SPIN.com hailed it one of the "10 Best Moments of Rock on the Range."
POP EVIL has enjoyed early success with its hit single "Last Man Standing" which peaked at No. 5 on the active rock charts.
"War Of Angles" is the follow-up to "Lipstick On The Mirror", which came out in 2008.
POP EVIL is Leigh Kakaty (lead vocals), Dylan Allison (drums), Davey Grahs (guitar), Tony Greve (guitar) and Matt DiRito (bass).
German rock and rollers 9MM have inked a deal with Napalm Records. The band's new album, "Dem Teufel Ein Gebet Sein", will be released on September 23.
Commented the group: "We are very happy and proud to let our fans know that our new album will be released by one of the best and most successful labels in the world. From now on, we are in the illustrious company of MONSTER MAGNET, GRAVE DIGGER, SALTATIO MORTIS and many more. We look forward to a long and successful cooperation and want to celebrate this announcement with a thunderous salute!"
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/soulflypremiere/9mmband.jpg
Guitarist Emanuele Ninu has left Italian melodic metallers BROKEN MELODY for "personal" and "health" reasons and has been replaced by Cristian Sotgiu.
Emanuele took part in BROKEN MELODY's U.K. tour in 2009 and appeared on the group's debut album, "Mirroring Identities". In addition, he was involved in the songwriting process for the band's upcoming sophomore CD.
In other news, BROKEN MELODY has announced the addition of pianist and composer Giulio Fanelli to the group's ranks.
A photo of the band's new lineup can be seen below.
Commented BROKEN MELODY: "It will be a totally new and exciting path. We are motivated by this change and confident about what will happen in the future."
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/soulflypremiere/brokenmelody2011.jpg
New York underground thrash metal band PRIME EVIL (not to be confused with PRIMEVIL, the new band featuring former VENOM members Jeff "Mantas" Dunn, Antony "Antton" Lant and Tony "The Demolition Man" Dolan) has reunited with all original members and will take part in "some epic showcase packages" in the Northeast U.S. by late summer/early fall. Vocalist Andy Eichhorn, guitarists Mike Usifer and Gary Day, drummer Todd Gukelberger and bassist Mary Ciullo have been hard at work on rehearsing the classic material as well as writing "absolutely crushing" new songs, according to a press release. PRIME EVIL has plans to record and release these songs in late 2011 or early 2012.
In a recent interview with Glorious Times, Eichhorn was asked about PRIME EVIL's decision to reform 18 years after the band's breakup.
"We have been getting asked to reunite at different times over the last 10 years or so," he said. "The timing or interest never seemed right, and to be honest, a lot of us have been through our fair share of surgeries, accidents, etc., and only recently have all five original members been physically able to participate. I think it's incredible we have all original members on board after 20 years!
"We have been rehearsing I can honestly say there is a spark there that hasn't been since the early days and it's absolutely electric. Going over the classic material quickly expanded into writing new songs and making recording plans.
"We will have a future announcement regarding the studio and producer we will be working with.
"So, to answer your question, this is the REAL-DEAL full-blown reunion and we plan to unleash some nasty old-school-tinged thrash! I can't fucking wait!"
PRIME EVIL was formed in New York in 1986 and was a major player in the early days of the underground death/thrash metal scene. The band plans to explode back on the scene with increased focus and determination.
NoiseArt Records and Rock The Nation have announced the signing of German thrashers HELLISH CROSSFIRE.
Commented the band: "HELLISH CROSSFIRE has finally decided join forces with Austrian label Noiseart Records and booking company Rock The Nation. At the moment the band is working on new songs for an upcoming third album in the rehearsal dungeon. HELLISH CROSSFIRE is looking forward to this new chapter in the band's history!"
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/hellishcrossfirethrash.
New York hardcore veterans SKARHEAD will release their new album, "Dreams Don't Die", in July via I Scream Records. With this CD, SKARHEAD founder Lord Ezec is paying tribute to some of his favorite bands from the unforgettable era between 1986 and 1989.
A SKARHEAD release isn't a SKARHEAD release unless Lord Ezec is surrounded by an impressive list of guests and that's exactly what he did for "Dreams Don't Die".
"Dreams Don't Die" track listing:
01. The Hard Way (originally by OUTBURST) (feat. Scott Vogel)
02. Backtrack (originally by KILLING TIME) (feat. Mad Joe)
03. As One (originally by WARZONE)
04. Trueblue (originally by UNDERDOG) (feat. Jimmy Williams & Stress The Whiteboy)
05. Pete's Sake (originally by SICK OF IT ALL) (feat. Bundy Blunts)
06. Malfunction (originally by CRO-MAGS) (feat. Eddie Sutton)
07. Sit Home And Rot (originally by MURPHY'S LAW) (feat. Stress The Whiteboy)
08. United Forces (originally by S.O.D.) (feat. Adlib)
09. Stand For (originally by LEEWAY) (feat. Eye-Ra-Haze)
10. Cup O Joe (originally by SHEER TERROR)
11. Break Down The Walls (originally by YOUTH OF TODAY) (feat. Ivan Murillo)
12. Soulcraft (originally BY BAD BRAINS) (feat. Eddie Sutton)
13. With Time (originally by AGNOSTIC FRONT)
14. When You Were Mine (originally by CYNDI LAUPER) (feat. Paul Bearer)
SKARHEAD's last album, "Drugs, Music & Sex", was released on November 17, 2009 in the U.S. and November 23, 2009 in Europe via I Scream Records. The CD was recorded and mixed by Dean Baltulonis (SICK OF IT ALL, MADBALL, AGNOSTIC FRONT) and produced by Lord Ezec. The album features guest appearances by some of the hardcore elite, including Freddy Cricien (MADBALL), CIV, Jorge Rosado (MERAUDER), Jamey Jasta (HATEBREED), Armand Majidi and Craig Setari (SICK OF IT ALL), Vinnie Stigma (AGNOSTIC FRONT) and more.
Founded in 1995 by Lord Ezec, SKARHEAD released the EP "Drugs, Money, Sex" that same year. In 1999 the follow-up album, "Kings At Crime", took the worldwide hardcore scene by storm and instantaneously became one of the all-time classic hardcore records.
Guitarist/vocalist Joe Duplantier of French extreme/progressive metallers GOJIRA recently spoke to U.K.'s Metal Hammer magazine about the band's forthcoming four-song EP, the proceeds from which will benefit Sea Shepherd, an anti-whaling organization.
The new issue of Metal Hammer, which hits the shelves today, comes packaged with a "Razor" CD that contains the new GOJIRA track "Of Blood And Salt" featuring guest appearances by Canadian musician/producer Devin Townsend (STRAPPING YOUNG LAD) and Fredrik Thordendal (MESHUGGAH).
According to Duplantier, the new GOJIRA EP will feature guest appearances by the following musicians:
* Devin Townsend (STRAPPING YOUNG LAD)
* Fredrik Thordendal (MESHUGGAH)
* Randy Blythe (LAMB OF GOD)
* Anders Fridén (IN FLAMES)
* Max Cavalera (SOULFLY, CAVALERA CONSPIRACY, SEPULTURA)
"I decided to ask a few singers from other metal bands if they would help us," Duplantier explained. "They all said yes! So Randy Blythe from LAMB OF GOD is involved. He sings on one song. Max Cavalera is involved, too, and Anders from IN FLAMES. Devin Townsend is also singing on the EP. It's taking a long time to organize but it's gonna be worth it."
The GOJIRA EP is tentatively scheduled for release in September, with a new full new album to follow later.
Regarding what the new GOJIRA material sounds like, Duplantier said, "It's GOJIRA but wiser and heavier." He added, "Our music is always evolving. I hope there is more to come from us! I believe we can get heavier and deeper and more magical than before. I respect everything that's been done before, but I hope we're digging in another direction. It's not a technical direction. It's a more spiritual direction. I think we're getting closer to the core of why we're doing this music. It's hard to describe it. Until I hear the new album it's hard to have a clear vision of it. Fuck it, it's just better!"
Swedish death metallers AMON AMARTH will embark on six-week headlining tour of Europe in the fall. The tour kicks off October 12 in Stuttgart, Germany and ends 45 days later on November 26 in Prague, Czech Republic. Direct support on the tour will come from Metal Blade labelmates AS I LAY DYING.
The dates are as follows:
Oct. 12 - Stuttgart, Germany - LKA
Oct. 13 - Strasbourg, France - La Laiterie
Oct. 14 - Passau, Germany - Metal Invasion Festival
Oct. 15 - Berlin, Germany - Huxleys
Oct. 16 - Leipzig, Germany - Hellraiser
Oct. 18 - Bremen, Germany - Aladin
Oct. 19 - Luxembourg, Luxembourg - Sportzentrum Differdange
Oct. 20 - Neu-Isenburg, Germany - Hugenottenhalle
Oct. 21 - Oberhausen, Germany - Turbinenhalle
Oct. 22 - Hengelo, Netherlands - Metropol
Oct. 23 - London, UK - HVM Forum
Oct. 25 - Rennes, France - L´Etage
Oct. 26 - Eindhoven, Netherlands - Effenaar
Oct. 27 - Lille, France - Aeronet
Oct. 28 - St. Etienne, France - Le Fil
Oct. 30 - Bilbao, Spain - Rock Star *
Nov. 01 - Lisboa, Portugal - Incrivel Almadense *
Nov. 02 - Porto, Portugal - Hard Club *
Nov. 03 - Santiago de Compostela, Spain - Capitol *
Nov. 04 - Madrid, Spain - Heineken *
Nov. 05 - Barcelona, Spain - Razzmatazz 2 *
Nov. 07 - Zürich, Switzerland - Komplex 457
Nov. 08 - Treviso, Italy - New Age
Nov. 09 - Bologna, Italy - Estragon
Nov. 11 - Lausanne, Switzerland - Les Docks
Nov. 12 - Kaufbeuren, Germany - All-Kart Halle
Nov. 13 - Graz, Austria - Orpheum
Nov. 15 - Ljubljana, Slovenia - Cvetlicarna Media Park Club
Nov. 16 - Zagreb, Croatia - Bogaloo
Nov. 18 - Sofia, Bulgaria - Yubilena Hall
Nov. 19 - Bucharest - Arenele Romane
Nov. 21 - Budapest, Hungary - Club 202
Nov. 23 - Linz, Austria - Posthof
Nov. 24 - Wien, Austria - Gasometer
Nov. 26 - Prague, Czech Republic - Masters Of Rock
* Without AS I LAY DYING
"Surtur Rising", the eighth studio album from AMON AMARTH, sold around 15,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 34 on The Billboard 200 chart. The band's previous CD, "Twilight of the Thunder God", opened with more than 11,000 copies back in 2008 to land at No. 48.
Named in tribute to Surtur, leader of the fire giants of Muspelheim ("flame land") and the oldest being in the nine worlds of Norse mythology, "Surtur Rising", which came out in North America on March 29 via Metal Blade Records, features 10 tracks of sword-wielding, fist-pumping, hyper climactic battle anthems. The album was once again recorded at Fascination Street Studios in Örebro, Sweden with Jens Bogren and features strikingly brutal cover art by Tom Thiel.
Canadian musician/producer Devin Townsend (STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, STEVE VAI, LAMB OF GOD, DARKEST HOUR, GWAR) will take part in a meet-and-greet at Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada's Scrape Records, located at 323 East Broadway, at midnight on June 20 (technically early morning June 21) to welcome the releases of his "Ghost" and "Deconstruction" albums.
For more information, go to this location.
Townsend will release "Deconstruction" and "Ghost" — the third and fourth in a series of albums to be made available under DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT moniker — on June 21 (one day earlier internationally) via InsideOut Music.
"Deconstruction" and "Ghost" will complete his tetralogy album concept — a great journey through Devin's different states of musical moods — which he started in 2009 with the albums "Addicted" (2009) and "Ki" (2009).
"Deconstruction" and "Ghost" are available for pre-order in three different packages at CMDistro.com.
In addition to the "Deconstruction" and "Ghost" 2CD package, fans can get their hands on one of the 500 "Special" bundles that contains both of the albums along with a limited-edition seven-inch single titled "The Calm & The Storm" plus four digital songs from the already completed "Ghost II" album. For the hardcore Devin fans, there are also 500 of the "Ultimate" bundles which contains everything from the other packages along with a patch and an exclusive t-shirt. All of these are available now at CMDistro.com.
DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT is also giving away a song from each of the two new records now! Download the tracks at this location.
Townsend tapped Jens Bogren (OPETH, KATATONIA, PARADISE LOST, BLOODBATH) to mix "Deconstruction". The sessions took place in late February at Fascination Street studio in Örebro, Sweden. The CD features guest appearances by a number of well-known metal musicians as well as two drummers — Ryan Van Poederooyen (TERROR SYNDROME, THE DEVIN TOWNSEND BAND) for the "crushing stuff," and Dirk Verbeuren (SOILWORK, SCARVE, ABORTED) for the "inhuman stuff."
"Deconstruction" track listing:
01. Praise The Lowered (feat. Paul Kuhr of NOVEMBERS DOOM) (6:02)
02. Stand (Feat. Mikael Åkerfeldt) (9:36)
03. Juular (feat. Ihsahn) (3:46)
04. Planet Of The Apes (feat. Tommy Rogers) (10:59)
05. Sumeria (feat. Joe Duplantier, Paul Masvidal) (6:37)
06. The Mighty Masturbator (feat. Greg Puciato) (16:28)
07. Pandemic (feat. Floor Jansen) (3:29)
08. Deconstruction (feat. Oderus Urungus, Fredrik Thordenal) (9:27)
09. Poltergeist (4:25)
"Deconstruction" guest musicians:
* Mikael Åkerfeldt (OPETH, BLOODBATH)
* Ihsahn (EMPEROR)
* Tommy Rogers (BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME)
* Joe Duplantier (GOJIRA)
* Greg Puciato (THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN)
* Floor Jansen (AFTER FOREVER, REVAMP)
* Oderus Urungus (GWAR)
* Paul Masvidal (CYNIC)
* Fredrik Thordendal (MESHUGGAH)
"Ghost" track listing:
01. Fly (4:15)
02. Heart Baby (5:55)
03. Feather (11:30)
04. Kawaii (2:52)
05. Ghost (6:24)
06. Blackberry (4:53)
07. Monsoon (4:37)
08. Dark Matters (1:57)
09. Texada (9:30)
10. Seams (4:04)
11. Infinite Ocean (8:01)
12. As You Were (8:47)
A detailed track-by-track review of "Deconstruction" can be found at RadioMetal.com.
A detailed track-by-track review of "Ghost" is available at this location.
Devin previously described "Deconstruction" as "brutal in a lot of parts, but pretty glorious in others. It rides the fence of negativity but ultimately ends supremely positive."
Even though "Ghost" is the fourth album to be made available under DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT moniker, Devin recorded it third, because "Deconstruction" (the third album) was "a nightmare technically and I wanted to make something lovely before diving into that," Devin previously said.
According to Devin, "'Ghost' is the mellowest (by far) and prettiest record I've done so far" with a "very wonderful vibe."
Townsend has announced the first two special shows in U.K. for November 2011 for a unique DVD recording.
On his recent mostly sold-out European tour, Devin already performed some of the new material and if you have followed Devin through his career, you will know that he is always up for pushing the limits to higher levels. After releasing "Deconstruction" and "Ghost" in June, Devin Townsend will return to London U.K. in November 2011 to play a set of very special shows dedicated to his four-album concept and which will be captured live on DVD.
Reformed industrial metal pioneers GODFLESH have been confirmed for this year's edition of the Damnation Festival, set to take place on November 5, 2011 at Leeds Union University. Joining them will be post-rockers GOD IS AN ASTRONAUT, who top the third stage and the atmospheric black metal their fellow Irishmen ALTAR OF PLAGUES.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows:
ALTAR OF PLAGUES
AMPLIFIER
ASTROHENGE
DECAPITATED
DOOM
DRAGGED INTO SUNLIGHT
GOD IS AN ASTRONAUT
GODFLESH
SHINING
ULVER
Tickets are on sale now priced £29 and are available from See Tickets and Leeds Tickets.
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"777 - The Desanctification", the eagerly awaited second part of BLUT AUS NORD's "777" trilogy, is currently being recorded and will be released via Debemur Morti Productions this coming September.
The critically-acclaimed first part of the trilogy — "777 - Sect(s)" — was released in April and is currently available as a digipack CD, gatefold 12-inch LP (gold or black record) and as a digital download. A t-shirt design is also available through the label's webshop.
"777 - Sect(s)" was recorded, mixed and mastered at Earthsound Studio and represents BLUT AUS NORD's "most nightmarish voyage yet," according to a press release. The amazing artwork was created by Chilean artist Daniel Valencia from Fenomeno Design and can be seen below.
Originating in 1994 from the ashes of VLAD (who released two demos), BLUT AUS NORD are undisputable French black metal pioneers, always managing to progress and move forward, evolving in perpetual mutation, developing their own vision of black metal. Choosing, from the start, the total opposite path of regressive bands (who copy what others have done ten years earlier and ten times better), BLUT AUS NORD eschews all the inherent clichés belonging to the genre.
BLUT AUS NORD's black metal approach is a fist in the face of mainstream mediocrity, becoming more macabre and sinister through a blend of innovative musical research, subliminal mental manipulation, and an incredible haunted, nightmarish feeling based on disharmony. BLUT AUS NORD are creators of a hallucinogenic universe, erasing all preconceived ideas of black metal — and extreme music in general. They redefine the rules.
Debemur Morti Productions has reissued the BLUT AUS NORD classic "The Mystical Beast Of Rebellion". The album is available on vinyl through the label's web site. The 2xCD version of this black metal masterpiece, the second disc of which features brand new material.
German bass manufacturer Warwick has just released a brand new seven-string fretless custom shop model for Jeroen Paul Thesseling (PESTILENCE, OBSCURA).
Due to the ultra-low tuning that was used for the recordings of PESTILENCE's "Doctrine" album, Jeroen wanted to work with a low F-sharp string. Right after the studio sessions, Hans Peter Wilfer, founder and managing director of Warwick, decided to support Thesseling by producing a fretless seven-string version of their famous classic Thumb NT series.
For more information, visit www.jeroenthesseling.com.
Thesseling, known for his signature fretless playing in progressive death metal, joined OBSCURA in 2007 and recorded the band's full-length albums "Cosmogenesis" (2009) and "Omnivium" (2011), both released via Relapse Records. In 2009 Jeroen rejoined the Dutch death metallers PESTILENCE after a 15-year hiatus. He recorded PESTILENCE's fourth and sixth studio albums, "Spheres" (1993) and "Doctrine" (2011).
Asgeir Mickelson of Artisan Norway recently conducted an interview with BORKNAGAR mainman Øystein G. Brun. A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.
Artisan Norway: Are you excited about recording a new BORKNAGAR album?
Øystein: Well, yes, I always have a full blown "musical erection" the months before we hit the studio — and certainly this time around. I have a very good gut feeling when it comes to the material we have at hand. We have an "updated" lineup and we're all urging to create the best BORK album to date. [This] may sound like the typical pre-studio cliché type of thing to say, but I have never before had so strong empirical reasons supporting my gut feeling for saying just that.
Artisan Norway: How many songs will it be? Can you reveal any titles?
Øystein: Actually, we don't have all the material on the table yet as some songs still are in the making. But it seems like we are closing in on about an hour of music or 10-11 songs all in all. But this includes all the rough material, so some songs might be thrown into the archives along the line or used as bonus material if it turns out good enough. From my experience, an album should not be much longer than 45 minutes, so according to my foresight we'll probably end up with nine songs on the actual album — without binding to it contractually. The album title is still in progress, but I have few songtitles emerging as "Northern Nobility", "In a Deeper World" and "The Winter Eclipse". At this point these titles are still working titles, but it might give you a lead where things are heading in terms of lyrics. Nothing revolutionary within the BORK lyrical universe, but we'll definitely add some new perspectives and ideas. As an example, the lyric to
"In a Deeper World" will be heavily inspired by the Norwegian philosopher Arne Næss.
Artisan Norway: Are there any significant changes or can we expect you to continue where you left off with the last album, "Universal"?
Øystein: With "Universal" we were definitely on to something, and we will surely follow this up on the new album, so we're definitely not going Euro pop or anything like that. My perspective on this album is very ambiguous and visionary in terms of the production. I have always had a very huge focus on the songwriting — and I still have, but this time around we'll also invest a lot of time and effort when it comes to the process of producing the songs. To be quite honest, I have written my portion of the music for this new album also implementing a producer's perspective on the songs. At least that is how I have "installed" my current mindset. I am proud of each end every album we have done in the past but we still have some goals to reach in terms of production. From my perspective, we have had so many great musical intentions and ideas throughout the years that have been compromised due to the production. I am not saying bad production, more
production of its time and as an always evolving band (I hope!) we also need to get the production a notch further.
"The Unseen Empire", the new album from Swedish progressive melodic death metallers SCAR SYMMETRY, sold around 1,500 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 11 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.
"The Unseen Empire" was released on April 15 in Europe and May 17 in North America via Nuclear Blast Records.
The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. The Anomaly
02. Illuminoid Dream Sequence
03. Extinction Mantra
04. Seer Of The Eschaton
05. Domination Agenda
06. Astronomicon
07. Rise Of The Reptilian Regime
08. The Draconian Arrival
09. Alpha And Omega
A track-by-track commentary on "The Unseen Empire" by the band's drummer, Henrik Ohlsson, is available in the YouTube clip below.
Commented Ohlsson: "'The Unseen Empire' seeks to expose the hidden hand of the elite that pull the strings of mankind in order to fulfill their agenda of global domination. The album concept goes from theories of shadow governments to secret ancient bloodlines and even further into speculations of malevolent influence from metaphysical reptilian-based intelligences. Mankind's only hope to survive seems to be an internal awakening where the influence of the unseen empire that rules in secrecy is washed away from the minds of the masses. They want us to stay within the framework of their agenda, hypnotizing us with things that draw attention but has no value. It's time to step outside the framework and make 'the unseen empire' visible!"
Check out the CD cover artwork below.
A new SCAR SYMMETRY song entitled "Illuminoid Dream Sequence" is available for streaming using the SoundCloud player below.
SCAR SYMMETRY's last album, "Dark Matter Dimensions", was released on October 2, 2009 via Nuclear Blast Records.
The band parted ways with singer Christian Älvestam in 2008 due to "business and creative differences and lack of interpersonal chemistry." He has since been replaced by Roberth Karlsson (lead growl vocals and backing clean vocals) and Lars Palmqvist (lead clean vocals and backing growl vocals).
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