During Wednesday's Red Sox-Yankees game, Steven Tyler from AEROSMITH and Peter Wolf representing THE J. GEILS BAND appeared in the booth alongside Jerry Remy and Don Orsillo in the bottom of the fourth to announce the event.
http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/reviewpics/tylergeils.jpg
Canadian rock legends RUSH have officially announced the "Time Machine Tour" where the band will play its seminal 1980 album "Moving Pictures" in its entirety.
The dates are as follows:
Jun. 29 - Hard Rock Casino Albuquerque presents The Pavilion - Albuquerque, NM
Jul. 01 - Starlight Theatre - Kansas City, MO
Jul. 02 - Miller Lite Oasis on the Summerfest Grounds - Milwaukee, WI
Jul. 05 - Charter One Pavilion at Northerly Island - Chicago, IL
Jul. 19 - Mohegan Sun Arena - Uncasville, CT
Jul. 21 - Susquehanna Bank Center - Camden, NJ
Jul. 23 - Saratoga Performing Arts Center - Saratoga Springs, NY
Jul. 24 - Nikon at Jones Beach Theater - Wantagh, NY
Aug. 05 - USANA Amphitheatre - West Valley City, UT
Aug. 07 - White River Amphitheatre - Auburn, WA
Aug. 09 - Shoreline Amphitheatre at Mountain View - Mountain View, CA
Aug. 11 - The Forum - Inglewood - Inglewood, CA
Aug. 13 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheater - Irvine, CA
Aug. 14 - MGM Grand Garden Arena - Las Vegas, NV
Aug. 16 - Red Rocks Amphitheatre - Morrison, CO
Aug. 20 - INTRUST Bank Arena - Wichita, KS
Aug. 22 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheater St. Louis - Maryland Heights, MO
Aug. 25 - Qwest Center Omaha - Omaha, NE
Aug. 27 - Minnesota State Fair - St. Paul, MN
Aug. 29 - Nationwide Arena - Columbus, OH
Aug. 31 - Allentown Fairgrounds Grandstand - Allentown, PA
Sep. 02 - New York State Fair Grandstand - Syracuse, NY
Sep. 03 - PNC Bank Arts Center - Holmdel, NJ
Sep. 14 - TD Garden - Boston, MA
Sep. 16 - Consol Energy Center - Pittsburgh, PA
Sep. 18 - Jiffy Lube Live - Bristow, VA
Sep. 21 - BOK Center - Tulsa, OK
Sep. 23 - AT&T Center - San Antonio, TX
Sep. 25 - Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion - The Woodlands, TX
Sep. 26 - Superpages.com Center - Dallas, TX
Sep. 29 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre - Alpharetta, GA
Oct. 01 - Ford Amphitheatre - Tampa, FL
Oct. 02 - Cruzan Amphitheatre - West Palm Beach, FL
Tickets go on sale on April 17.
RUSH has started pre-production at Cherry Beach Sound in Toronto, Canada, according to RushIsABand.com. Guitarist Alex Lifeson is engineering the sessions for the Canadian trio's first new music since its 2007 album "Snakes & Arrows". What form that music will take, however, is still a matter of debate. Drummer Neil Peart told the Canadian Press that the band was going to work on two songs, adding, "If they turn out well, we'll maybe even release them (on their own). We're saying, what if we do a little songwriting and then a little touring to play those songs, and then get back to the songwriting again? It would be an interesting way to shake up our usual way."
Bassist/singer Geddy Lee told The Pulse Of Radio a while back that he's the one who usually gets the writing and recording process started. "I think it's usually me, because I have more Jewish guilt than the other guys do. And even though I have no problem completely disregarding my responsibilities for at least a year, after a year and a couple of months I start feeling a bit like I should really probably do something that's less indulgent than collecting wine or going to ball games or playing tennis."
Peart also told the Winnipeg Press earlier in the year, "We feel very much liberated from the album format in a way right now, because in the three years since our last album, suddenly albums don't mean anything."
After the pre-production work is done in Toronto, it's rumored that RUSH may finish up in Nashville, possibly with "Snakes & Arrows" co-producer Nick Raskulinecz.
According to New Jersey's Star Ledger, Canadian rock trio RUSH will perform at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel on September 3, with tickets going on sale April 17 at 10 a.m. RUSH will also perform at the Nikon at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, New York on July 24. Both shows will be part of the band's Time Machine Tour. The full list of confirmed dates and cities is expected to be officially released tomorrow morning (Thursday, April 8).
RUSH has started pre-production at Cherry Beach Sound in Toronto, Canada, according to RushIsABand.com. Guitarist Alex Lifeson is engineering the sessions for the Canadian trio's first new music since its 2007 album "Snakes & Arrows". What form that music will take, however, is still a matter of debate. Drummer Neil Peart told the Canadian Press that the band was going to work on two songs, adding, "If they turn out well, we'll maybe even release them (on their own). We're saying, what if we do a little songwriting and then a little touring to play those songs, and then get back to the songwriting again? It would be an interesting way to shake up our usual way."
Bassist/singer Geddy Lee told The Pulse Of Radio a while back that he's the one who usually gets the writing and recording process started. "I think it's usually me, because I have more Jewish guilt than the other guys do. And even though I have no problem completely disregarding my responsibilities for at least a year, after a year and a couple of months I start feeling a bit like I should really probably do something that's less indulgent than collecting wine or going to ball games or playing tennis."
Peart also told the Winnipeg Press earlier in the year, "We feel very much liberated from the album format in a way right now, because in the three years since our last album, suddenly albums don't mean anything."
After the pre-production work is done in Toronto, it's rumored that RUSH may finish up in Nashville, possibly with "Snakes & Arrows" co-producer Nick Raskulinecz.
RUSH — Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart — is without question one of the most inventive and compelling groups in rock history, equally famed for both its virtuoso musicianship and provocative songwriting.
Announced today, the "Time Machine Tour" is an evening with RUSH, where they will perform their classics, give a taste of the future — and for the first time ever — feature the "Moving Pictures" album live in its entirety.
The band is currently working on their 20th studio album with producer Nick Raskulinecz (co-producer from 2007's "Snakes & Arrows") and in addition to their classics plan to showcase a few new tunes live this summer.
"We were off for a year and a half, and now it's just pouring. Everything is totally crazy and there's not a minute left in the day. We've got these half-dozen songs, and we'll probably go in the studio and work on a couple of them and see how it goes, perhaps release something — and I say perhaps — and then we plan on being on the road," says guitarist Alex Lifeson.
This summer's Live Nation-promoted tour will visit approximately 40 cities throughout North America beginning June 29 in Albuquerque, NM and finishing October 2 in West Palm Beach, FL with stops along the way in Boston, Chicago, Denver, Dallas, Holmdel, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Toronto, Washington, and more along the way (complete tour itinerary follows).
RUSH has sold more than 40 million records worldwide and garnered untold legions of devoted and admiring fans. According to the RIAA, RUSH's sales statistics place RUSH third after THE BEATLES and THE ROLLING STONES for the most consecutive gold or platinum studio albums by a rock band.
Released in 1981, "Moving Pictures" was their most successful album, certified four-times platinum and features some of RUSH's most well known songs and perennial radio favourites "Tom Sawyer", "Limelight" and the Grammy-nominated instrumental "YYZ".
"Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage", a documentary created by filmmakers Scot McFadyen and Sam Dunn (whose filmography also includes "Iron Maiden: Flight 666", "Metal: A Headbanger's Journey" and "Global Metal") will premiere at New York's Tribeca Film Festival on April 24, followed by the Canadian premiere at Toronto's Hot Docs festival on April 29. The band was also recently showcased in the comedy "I Love You Man" where they play themselves in a concert scene featuring actors Paul Rudd and Jason Segal as ubra-fans, a performance which has exposed the band to a whole new generation.
Inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame this past March alongside Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen and Gordon Lightfoot, RUSH has also been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards and won a number of Juno Awards. They were inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1994 and bestowed the Order of Canada in 1997. Consistently celebrated and respected worldwide, RUSH is the most successful Canadian rock band of all time and they remain one of the biggest grossing arena rock bands ever.
Tickets for the "Time Machine Tour" will go on sale beginning April 16 in San Francisco, Uncasville, Saratoga Springs, Denver, Chicago, Wantagh, Seattle and Holmdel at LiveNation.com. Tickets for performances in Milwaukee, Sarnia and Syracuse go on sale April 17. Check local listings for ticket information.
Citi cardmembers will have access to pre-sale tickets through Citi's Private Pass Program beginning April 13 in select markets. For complete presale details visit www.citiprivatepass.com.
The dates are as follows:
Jun. 29 - Hard Rock Casino Albuquerque presents The Pavilion - Albuquerque, NM
Jul. 01 - Starlight Theatre - Kansas City, MO
Jul. 02 - Miller Lite Oasis on the Summerfest Grounds - Milwaukee, WI
Jul. 05 - Charter One Pavilion at Northerly Island - Chicago, IL
Jul. 19 - Mohegan Sun Arena - Uncasville, CT
Jul. 21 - Susquehanna Bank Center - Camden, NJ
Jul. 23 - Saratoga Performing Arts Center - Saratoga Springs, NY
Jul. 24 - Nikon at Jones Beach Theater - Wantagh, NY
Aug. 05 - USANA Amphitheatre - West Valley City, UT
Aug. 07 - White River Amphitheatre - Auburn, WA
Aug. 09 - Shoreline Amphitheatre at Mountain View - Mountain View, CA
Aug. 11 - The Forum - Inglewood - Inglewood, CA
Aug. 13 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheater - Irvine, CA
Aug. 14 - MGM Grand Garden Arena - Las Vegas, NV
Aug. 16 - Red Rocks Amphitheatre - Morrison, CO
Aug. 20 - INTRUST Bank Arena - Wichita, KS
Aug. 22 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheater St. Louis - Maryland Heights, MO
Aug. 25 - Qwest Center Omaha - Omaha, NE
Aug. 27 - Minnesota State Fair - St. Paul, MN
Aug. 29 - Nationwide Arena - Columbus, OH
Aug. 31 - Allentown Fairgrounds Grandstand - Allentown, PA
Sep. 02 - New York State Fair Grandstand - Syracuse, NY
Sep. 03 - PNC Bank Arts Center - Holmdel, NJ
Sep. 14 - TD Garden - Boston, MA
Sep. 16 - Consol Energy Center - Pittsburgh, PA
Sep. 18 - Jiffy Lube Live - Bristow, VA
Sep. 21 - BOK Center - Tulsa, OK
Sep. 23 - AT&T Center - San Antonio, TX
Sep. 25 - Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion - The Woodlands, TX
Sep. 26 - Superpages.com Center - Dallas, TX
Sep. 29 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre - Alpharetta, GA
Oct. 01 - Ford Amphitheatre - Tampa, FL
Oct. 02 - Cruzan Amphitheatre - West Palm Beach, FL
Nuclear Blast Records has set a September 14 tentative North American release date for "Blood Of Nations", the new studio album from reformed heavy metal legends ACCEPT. The band's 15th LP was recorded at Backstage Studio in Derbyshire, England with acclaimed British producer and SABBAT guitarist Andy Sneap (MEGADETH, EXODUS, ARCH ENEMY, NEVERMORE). The CD — which will mark the recording debut of the band's latest addition, vocalist Mark Tornillo (ex-TT QUICK) — will contain around 14 tracks, including "Shades Of Death", "Blood Of Nations", "Pandemic", " Teutonic Terror" and "The Abyss".
ACCEPT recently filmed a video for the song " Teutonic Terror" in Los Angeles.
"The Abyss" was premiered on Eddie Trunk's "Friday Night Rocks" radio show on New York's Q104.3 FM and then again on KNAC.COM's "The Vault" on March 21 with host DJ Will.
Following their eagerly awaited return to the live stage at the almost-sold-out Gramercy Theatre in New York City, ACCEPT will be heading to Europe to perform special shows in carefully handpicked venues in various European capitals.
ACCEPT has chosen to play these publicity concerts in small, intimate settings to get close to its longtime fans.
Following the CD's release and the intimate European "fan-focused" shows, preparations for a full-fledged world tour will start this summer.
"We can't wait to go out and play again," said bassist Peter Baltes. "Just because [former ACCEPT singer] Udo Dirkschneider isn't available to take part in the reunion doesn't mean we'll have to sit idle any longer. We feel Mark is the perfect fit. Mark is an experienced veteran singer who is aware of the ACCEPT legacy and his voice fits the sound of ACCEPT perfectly.
"Wolf [Hoffmann, guitar] and I have always been the songwriting team — most of the classic ACCEPT tunes were written that way; together with Deaffy, a.k.a. Gaby Hoffmann, as a lyricist."
Regarding Tornillo's addition to ACCEPT, Hoffmann previously said, "It all happened in minutes. Peter and I were working on some tunes in a studio in New Jersey. Somebody suggested we give this guy Mark a call to see if he would join us on vocals. So when he arrived we started jamming on some old ACCEPT tunes — just for fun. As soon as Mark started singing we looked at each other and realized the impossible just happened: we found a new voice for ACCEPT! The timing could not have been better! Now or never... We are re-energized and excited..."
ACCEPT 2010 is:
Wolf Hoffmann: Guitar
Peter Baltes: Bass
Herman Frank: Guitar
Mark Tornillo: Vocals
Stefan Schwarzmann: Drums
According to Billboard.com, VELVET REVOLVER/ex-GUNS N' ROSES guitarist Slash's all-star collaborations album, simply titled "Slash", is on track to score the highest new entry on next week's The Billboard 200 chart, with first-week U.S. sales of around 50,000 copies. That should be enough to secure the rock icon a Top 10 debut.
"Slash" was released in North America on April 6 via EMI Label Services. The album features an all-star roster of guest musicians, including Ian Astbury, Chris Cornell, Rocco DeLuca, Fergie, Dave Grohl, Myles Kennedy, Kid Rock, Lemmy Kilmister, Adam Levine of MAROON 5, Duff McKagan, M. Shadows of AVENGED SEVENFOLD, Ozzy Osbourne, Iggy Pop, and Andrew Stockdale of WOLFMOTHER.
"Slash" was produced by Eric Valentine (QUEENS OF STONE AGE, THE ALL-AMERICAN REJECTS) and was completed with the rhythm section of bassist Chris Chaney (JANE'S ADDICTION) and drummer Josh Freese (NINE INCH NAILS). Slash handled the majority of arranging and songwriting duties and hand-picked each guest artist. The album's guests worked collaboratively with Slash to round out the song.
The track listing is as follows (guest vocalists in parenthesis):
01. Ghost (Ian Astbury, feat. Izzy Stradlin) (3:34)
02. Crucify The Dead (Ozzy Osbourne) (4:04)
03. Beautiful Dangerous (Fergie) (4:35)
04. Promise (Chris Cornell) (4:41)
05. By The Sword (Andrew Stockdale) (4:50)
06. Gotten (Adam Levine) (5:05)
07. Doctor Alibi (Lemmy) (3:07)
08. Watch This (Dave Grohl, Duff McKagan) (3:46)
09. I'll Hold On (Kid Rock) (4:10)
10. Nothing To Say (M. Shadows) (5:27)
11. Starlight (Myles Kennedy) (5:35)
12. Saint Is A Sinner Too (Rocco De Luca) (3:28)
13. We're All Gonna Die (Iggy Pop) (4:30)
Bonus tracks:
14. Baby Can't Drive (Alice Cooper, Nicole Scherzinger)
15. Back From Cali (Myles Kennedy)
ALICE IN CHAINS, LACUNA COIL, EUROPE, THERAPY?, DIR EN GREY, TERRORVISION, SICK OF IT ALL, MUNICIPAL WASTE, EVILE, RISE TO REMAIN, RENEGADES and PENDULUM have been confirmed for the U.K. edition of the Sonisphere festival, set to take place July 30 - August 1 at Knebworth Park.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows:
IRON MAIDEN **
RAMMSTEIN *
ALICE COOPER *
ALICE IN CHAINS **
ANTHRAX *
APOCALYPTICA *
BRING ME THE HORIZON *
THE CULT *
DIR EN GREY *
EUROPE
EVILE
FAMILY FORCE 5
FEAR FACTORY
FIGHTSTAR
FUNERAL FOR A FRIEND
GALLOWS
HENRY ROLLINS (spoken word) *
IGGY & THE STOOGES *
LACUNA COIL *
MADINA LAKE
MÖTLEY CRÜE **
MUNICIPAL WASTE
PAPA ROACH *
PENDULUM
PLACEBO *
RENEGADES
RISE TO REMAIN
SICK OF IT ALL
SLAYER *
SKUNK ANANSIE
TERRORVISION **
THERAPY? **
** Only U.K. performance of 2010
* Exclusive U.K. festival performance
Tickets for Sonisphere are on sale now at SonisphereFestivals.com.
With a full weekend ticket going for just £132.50, no booking fee and a host of exclusive performances, there is no better value for U.K. festival fans this summer.
Former GUNS N' ROSES/ROCK STAR SUPERNOVA guitarist Gilby Clarke has announced his first show since he sustained serious injuries in a hit-and-run accident on his motorcycle on January 10. Clarke will perform at Brixton in Redondo Beach, California on May 28.
Clarke suffered three broken bones in his left foot/ankle and a broken bone in his right foot. He had his second surgery in early February during which "they put in a rod, plate and lots of screws," he wrote on his blog. He added, "Everything is healing well; it's a good thing I was healthy going in."
Clarke, 47, is best known for a three-year tenure as the rhythm guitarist of GUNS N' ROSES. He joined the band in November 1991, replacing Izzy Stradlin, who quit the group in the middle of a 28-month world tour. Gilby has also played with ROCK STAR SUPERNOVA, HEART, NANCY SINATRA, Kathy Valentine (of THE GO-GO'S) and the reformed MC5 on their 2005 European tour.
Clarke has produced a number of artists, including L.A. GUNS, BULLETS AND OCTANE, THE BRONX, GIRLSPLAYBOYS, VAINS OF JENNA and LADYJACK.
According to The Pulse of Radio, THE BLACK CROWES will spend the spring and early summer on tour backing last summer's "Before the Frost … Until the Freeze". The band will get things underway April 23 at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and wind the outing down July 25 in Louisville, Kentucky.
"Before The Frost…" was recorded in front of an intimate audience over five nights at Levon Helm's Barn in Woodstock, New York. BLACK CROWES guitarist Rich Robinson tells The Pulse of Radio it was a fitting environment especially because the band likes to change things up with every new album. "We're proud of the fact that we've changed every record," he said. "I think that it's helped our career and added to it. Whether we've sold more or less over the years, I think it's helped us along the way."
THE BLACK CROWES are currently made up of brothers guitarist Rich Robinson and singer Chris Robinson, along with longtime drummer Steve Gorman and bassist Sven Pipien. There's also keyboardist Adam MacDougall and guitarist Luther Dickinson.
BLACK CROWES tour dates (subject to change):
Apr. 23 - New Orleans, LA - New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
Apr. 24 - Cottonwood, AL - Celebrity Station Amphitheatre
May 14 - Gulf Shores, AL - The Hangout
May 21 - San Diego, CA - Humphrey's Concerts By The Bay
May 22 - Dana Point, CA - Doheny State Beach
May 27 - Mission, TX - Las Palmas Race Park
May 28 - New Braunfels, TX - Whitewater Amphitheatre
May 29 - Little Rock, AR - Riverfest
Jun. 02 - Westbury, NY - North Fork Theatre
Jun. 05 - Hampton Beach, NH - Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom
Jul. 02 - Jacksonville, OR - Britt Pavilion
Jul. 03 - Quincy, CA - High Sierra Music Festival
Jul. 24 - Robinsonville, MS - Horseshoe Tunica
Jul. 25 - Louisville, KY - Churchill Downs
According to The Independent, Malcolm McLaren, the former manager of the SEX PISTOLS and impresario, has died. He was 64.
Despite early reports that he had died in New York, McLaren's girlfriend of many years, Young Kim, 37, confirmed the impresario died of mesothelioma at a hospital in Switzerland
It is a rare form of cancer that develops from the protective lining that covers many of the body's internal organs, the mesothelium and is usually caused by exposure to asbestos. His body is expected to be brought home to be buried in Highgate cemetery, north London.
SEX PISTOLS' Johnny Rotten has released the following statement regarding Malcolm McLaren's passing: "For me Malc was always entertaining, and I hope you remember that. Above all else he was an entertainer and I will miss him, and so should you."
HELLYEAH — the band featuring members of MUDVAYNE, PANTERA and NOTHINGFACE — is putting the finishing touches on its sophomore album, "Stampede", for a July 13 release via Epic Records. Once the record has been completed, the band will hit the road for a worldwide tour throughout the summer.
The follow up to HELLYEAH's 2007 self-titled debut, "Stampede" is being recorded, produced and mixed by drummer Vinnie Paul Abbott and Sterling Winfield. Vocalist Chad Gray says of the album, "I couldn't wait to write this record. I can't wait for our fans to hear it and I definitely can't wait to hit the fucking stage and play it!
"'Stampede' represents every emotion that you've ever had and everything that screams HELLYEAH! There's no smoke and mirrors with what we are. What you see is what you get. And what your get is five guys bringin' it, a head full of music, bleeding ears and most likely…. drunk!"
Abbott told Revolver TV in a recent interview that "Stampede" is "a little more Southern, a little more rock and roll" than the band's self-titled 2007 debut, adding that "it's got some very, very metal moments on it, too. It's just a wide variety of all the different kind of influences that all of us grew up on, and I'm really proud of it."
"Stampede" was recorded at Abbott's home in Arlington, Texas, where he has a studio set up. Gray gave The Pulse of Radio a quick description of the house. "Well, he lives up on this ridiculous hill," he said. "The driveway's so steep, like, I mean even when it's raining, it's dangerous. I've talked to people that go there and they're like, you just park down at the bottom and you've got to walk up. And I mean, it's a pretty big house. Big high ceilings, he's probably got 45-foot ceilings, I think, in his living room, which is why we're recording drums there, 'cause it makes for good ambience. It's got a swimming pool shaped like a Crown Royal bottle, kitchen, smoker, grill...that's the tour."
HELLYEAH will debut the first track from "Stampede" to fans on April 21.
In addition to Abbott and Gray, HELLYEAH features Gray's MUDVAYNE bandmate Greg Tribbett on guitar, Tom Maxwell (NOTHINGFACE) on guitar, and Bob "Zilla" Kakaha of DAMAGEPLAN on bass.
The group's self-titled debut has sold more than 350,000 copies since coming out in April 2007.
HOMELAND, the new solo project of BACKYARD BABIES guitarist/vocalist Nicke Borg, will make its live debut at this year's Peace & Love festival, set to take place place June 28 - July 3 in Borlänge, Sweden.
Commented Borg: "Role models [such] as Johnny Cash , Steve Earle and SOCIAL DISTORTION has inspired me to write music I always longed for to record and perform live.
"My vision is that HOMELAND will be a living project where genres are mixed depending on the contribution of musicians, guests or friends."
Nitrox.tv has uploaded professionally filmed video footage (see below) of BACKYARD BABIES' February 13, 2010 performance at Backstage Halle in Munich, Germany.
In a recent interview with Classic Rock magazine, BACKYARD BABIES guitarist Dregen was asked about the band's recent announcement that it was going on an "indefinite hiatus" and whether the group's next batch of touring could be its last. "Not at all," Dregen replied. "We've been touring, recording and writing for 20 years, the last 10 at a very intense level. It's time for a well-deserved break before we begin writing the next album. . . We're talking months. For the BACKYARD BABIES, two weeks is a long time. If the hiatus lasted for a year, that would be an absolute maximum. During that time we won't be booking any shows, just trying to find a new spark."
To celebrate two decades together, BACKYARD BABIES embarked on the "Them XX Tour" in January/February. In addition, they released a deluxe 120-page book titled "Them XX" containing private photos, three CDs and a DVD-documentary that conveys the 20 years of the BACKYARD BABIES story.
The band's latest, self-titled album topped the chart in the group's home country in its first week of release. The CD also entered the Finnish album chart at No. 31.
Released in Europe on August 18, 2008 via Billion Dollar Babies/Spinefarm, "Backyard Babies" was recorded during 90 sweaty days and nights at Polar and Big Island Sound studios in Stockholm with producer Jacob Hellner (RAMMSTEIN, APOCALYPTICA).
Progressive metal giants DREAM THEATER will play a few select headlining shows on some of the "off" days throughout the band's North American tour with IRON MAIDEN.
Commented DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Portnoy: "Please note these will not be traditional DREAM THEATER shows in terms of production. As it is in the midst of the MAIDEN tour, we are not carrying our usual lighting and video show... So instead these will be small intimate club shows... just like the good (?) ol' days!
"So come sweat it out with us..."
The dates are as follows:
June 21 - Roseland Theater, Portland, OR
July 02 - Newport Music Hall, Columbus, OH
July 10 - Palladium, Worcester, MA
DREAM THEATER will spend its summer supporting IRON MAIDEN on the band's month-long tour of major U.S. and Canadian markets. The tour launches on June 9 and runs through July 20, and includes a stop at the storied Madison Square Garden in New York City, marking the first time in a lengthy and respected career that DREAM THEATER will have played the world's most famous arena. This tour will mark another milestone in DREAM THEATER's history, which continues to expand and evolve, twenty-five years deep.
Of touring with IRON MAIDEN in North America, Portnoy previously said, "It is a bit of a dream come true for us.
"After 25 years together, at this stage in our career, there's honestly only three bands DREAM THEATER would consider opening for and MAIDEN is one of them.
"It is an absolute honor.
"Through the years, we've done many one-off shows with MAIDEN and they've almost all been overseas. It is very exciting to finally be doing a full tour with them and on our side of the pond, no less.
"These are gonna be amazing shows that the fans won't want to miss.
"Up the fucking irons!"
Playing Madison Square Garden for the first time is also a huge accomplishment for the band and they are thrilled about the prospect.
"DREAM THEATER has achieved so many dreams through the years, from playing the Budokan in Tokyo to Wembley Arena in London to Radio City Music Hall in New York City," Portnoy recalled. "But the one remaining dream that has eluded us through all of these years was to play at Madison Square Garden. Well, on July 12, along with IRON MAIDEN, that dream will finally be fulfilled."
Guitarist John Petrucci was equally stoked about the Madison Square Garden play, saying, "I am unbelievably excited to be finally playing Madison Square Garden, and with the almighty MAIDEN to boot! They have been heroes to the band since the beginning and are iconic in our eyes.
"There is nothing like achieving success and recognition in your own country, in your own city. It's going to be an incredible night, for sure."
Portnoy has proof of this career-long dream, saying, "About [two months] ago, my family and I were watching a video of my first band INTRUDER from back in 1983, and in the video before the show, I was interviewed and asked what my dream goal was. I responded 'To play the Garden.' It took almost 30 years, but it's surreal that I will now be able to check it off the list."
"The Obsidian Conspiracy", the long-awaited new album from Seattle metallers NEVERMORE, will be released in Europe on May 31 and in North America on June 8 via Century Media Records.
The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. The Termination Proclamation
02. Your Poison Throne
03. Moonrise (Through Mirrors Of Death)
04. And The Maiden Spoke
05. Emptiness Unobstructed
06. The Blue Marble And The New Soul
07. Without Morals
08. The Day You Built The Wall
09. She Comes In Colors
10. The Obsidian Conspiracy
The drum tracks for "The Obsidian Conspiracy" were completed in the group's hometown of Seattle with SOILWORK guitarist Peter Wichers, who previously worked with Dane on the singer's solo debut, "Praises to the War Machine". Longtime friend and collaborator Andy Sneap (MEGADETH, ARCH ENEMY, EXODUS, MACHINE HEAD) once again handled mixing duties.
The captivating and dynamic cover art was once again created by the great Travis Smith (OPETH, KATATONIA) and can be viewed in the video clip below.
NEVERMORE also recorded two cover versions during the sessions: "The Crystal Ship" (THE DOORS) and "Transmission" (THE TEA PARTY)
According to Dane, the song "And The Maiden Spoke" "is going to blow your minds; it's twisted, progressive lunatic fringe riffing with vicious hooklines."
He added: "These songs are full of newfound rage, lyrically and musically. Jeff Loomis has come up with some amazing new riffs that will no doubt please old and new fans alike. Also, I think the combination of Peter and Andy will result in something very, very special."
In an interview with Cerebral Metalhead, Dane said of "The Crystal Ship" cover, "THE DOORS song was not my original choice. I really wanted to do this song called 'Waiting For the Sun'.
"When I listen to songs, of course, since I'm a lyricist, I gravitate towards cover songs (for which) I admire the lyrics. Jeff [Loomis] being a guitarist, he goes for the guitar stuff that he thinks is really cool. And that's how we came on THE DOORS thing.
"'Crystal Ship', originally he [Jeff] had taken the approach of making it a little heavy. And I tried to work with it and I said, 'Jeff, I don't think this is working. I think maybe what we should try is an all-acoustic approach to the song.' And when we did it, he was like, 'Dude, you're totally right.' And he was like doing five-layered guitar parts over this.
"When people hear it, it doesn't sound like THE DOORS anymore. I think that's what people expect when we do cover songs. 'Cause we've been known to deconstruct and recreate more than one song."
German power metallers STORMHAMMER have announced the addition of guitarist Marcelo Oehninger (ex-IRIDIUM-X) to the group's ranks.
The band in January recruited new singer Ben Silver.
STORMHAMMER's fourth album, "Signs Of Revolution", came out in May 2009 via Silverwolf/SPV. According to a press release, the CD saw the band "deliver[ing] a very diverse mixture of hyper melodic, Euro-style power metal, and U.S. metal as well as a decent bite of a NWOBHM approach similar to IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST, etc."
"Signs Of Revolution" was recorded in early 2008, completely produced by STORMHAMMER. The mix was handled by Thomas Burlefinger, who has previously worked with Mike Portnoy (DREAM THEATER), Greg Bissonette (DAVID LEE ROTH), Dave Evans (AC/DC), Darren Wharton (THIN LIZZY), L.A. GUNS and SUBWAY TO SALLY. The cover artwork was designed by "Stripe" Schinzel (AGENT STEEL, ANVIL, HANOI ROCKS, QUIET RIOT, W.A.S.P., WITCHCRAFT).
STORMHAMMER released its third album, "Lord of Darkness", in May 2004 via Mausoleum Records.
Swedish metallers CRYSTAL EYES have issued the following update:
"We've been getting a lot of questions lately about the status of CRYSTAL EYES so here it is: We're still alive and somewhere in the middle of the songwriting process for the seventh album. It's far too early to talk about release dates but since the speed and the Halford screams are back in the new songs it will be worth the wait.
"If you want to see CRYSTAL EYES live, don't miss the gig in Borås in Sweden on the 24th of April. We're hoping to announce some more dates soon."
CRYSTAL EYES last year parted ways with Danish singer Søren Nico Adamsen (ARTILLERY) and decided to carry on as a four-piece band, with Mikael Dahl (guitar) handling lead vocals.
An edited medley of the demo recordings for the last CRYSTAL EYES album, "Chained", featuring Mikael on lead vocals, is available for for streaming on the band's MySpace page. According to the group, "(The vocals on the demo recordings are first takes with no real lyrics. Just random "heavy metal words."
"Chained" was released in November 2008 via Metal Heaven Records. The CD's cover artwork was created by Carl-André Beckston (a.k.a. Monowasp). The album was mixed at Studio Fredman with acclaimed producer Fredrik Nordström (DIMMU BORGIR, IN FLAMES, HAMMERFALL).
Dutch female-fronted symphonic metallers EPICA have confirmed two shows so far on what looks to be the band's return to North America this fall.
Followng up EPICA's two sold-out-in-advance concerts in New York City and Montreal and to allow those fans who didn't see the group perform the first time around, EPICA is allowing only these two dates to go on sale today:
Nov. 19 - New York City , NY @ Grammercy Theatre
Nov. 21 - Montreal, QC @ Club Soda
Support acts for these concerts have not yet been announced.
U.K. atmospheric progressive doomsters PANTHEIST have issued the following update:
"We are currently working on tracks for our new album. Seven compositions have been created so far. Some of them have been tested live in the gigs we have played over the last few months.
"The band are currently working on a two-track promo, containing a composition of Kostas called 'Broken Statue' (which has been unveiled to receptive audiences in the five previous gigs we played) and one of Ilia called 'Brighter Days'. This promo will be sent to labels and our aim is to record and release a new album in 2010."
PANTHEIST will perform at the prestigious Moscow Doom Fest on May 29 at the Plan B venue in Moscow, Russia.
PANTHEIST is:
Kostas (keyboards, vocals)
Mark (bass)
Sterghios (drums)
Ilia (guitar)
Pepijn (guitar)
PANTHEIST's third album, "Journey Through Lands Unknown", was released in October 2008 by Firedoom Music, an extreme doom metal specialist label of Firebox Records.
"Journey Through Lands Unknown" was recorded and mixed by Greg Chandler at Priory Studios, and mastered by Rik Dowding at Sonic Mastering.
Richie Kotzen (ex-MR. BIG, POISON) has scheduled the following dates:
Apr. 22 - Bolshoi Pub - Goiania, Brazil
Apr. 23 - Blackmore Rock Bar - Sao Paulo, Brazil
Apr. 24 - Blackmore Rock Bar - Sao Paulo. Brazil
Apr. 25 - Teatro Odisseia - Rio De Janiero, Brazil
Apr. 28 - Drakkar Music Hall - Porto Alegre, Brazil
Apr. 29 - Hangar Bar - Curtiba, Brazil
May 01 - Guitar Fest - Valparaiso, Chile
May 2 - Teatro Collegiales - Buenos Aires, Argentina
May 11 - Skipper's Smokehouse - Tampa, FL
May 12 - Club 57 West - Orlando, FL
May 13 - Freebird Live - Jacksonville, FL
May 14 - The Local - Marietta, GA
May 16 - Mercy Lounge - Nashville, TN
May 18 - Jaxx Night Club - West Springfield, VA
May 19 - The North Star Bar - Philadelphia, PA
May 21 - The Works - Wyomissing, PA
May 22 - Diesel Club Lounge - Pittsburgh, PA
May 25 - Highline Ballroom - New York, NY
May 26 - Toad's Place - New Haven, CT
May 27 - Showcase Live - Foxboro, MA
Jun. 03 - Latino Rock - San Jose, Costa Rica
Jun. 04 - Latino Rock - San Jose, Costa Rica
Jun. 05 - The Loft - Jaco Beach, Costa Rica
Jun. 17 - 02 Academy Islington - London, UK
Jun. 19 - Club Academy - Manchester, UK
Jun. 20 - The Classic Grand - Glasgow, Scotland
"The Deafening", the sophomore album from the Gothenburg, Sweden-based metal/rock band HOSTILE CELL, was mastered today by Dragan Tanaskovic at Bohus Sound studio in Kungälv, Sweden. According to the group, "it's fucking amazingly good!"
"The Deafening" is scheduled for release on May 12 via the group's own Coreshot Productions, with distribution through Plugged Records. The cover artwork was created by David Heleander of All Custom Tattoo.
15 songs were recorded for the follow-up to the band's self-titled debut, which will feature a guest appearance by Tony Jelencovich (M.A.N, ex-MNEMIC, TRANSPORT LEAGUE). The CD will be available in physical and digital formats.
Regarding the album title, HOSTILE CELL previously explained that it "reflect[s] the chaotic media static that surrounds every civilized human 24-7, and, of course, the sonic assault that these songs will deliver."
Video footage of HOSTILE CELL performing a brand new song entitled "Reanimation" can be viewed below.
HOSTILE CELL last year recruited Johan Andreassen, formerly of HEADPLATE and ENGEL, as the group's new permanent bass player.
HOSTILE CELL released its self-titled debut album on October 1, 2008 via Coreshot Productions. The 10-track CD was mastered by Dragan Tanaskovich at Bohussound Recordings.
For more information, visit the band's MySpace page.
Los Angeles-based technical progressive metallers THE HUMAN ABSTRACT have recruited ex-FROM FIRST TO LAST guitarist/vocalist Travis Richter as their new frontman. He replaces Nathan Ells, who exited the group late last year.
Commented the band: "We're excited to welcome Travis to THE HUMAN ABSTRACT. We couldn't be more pumped on the current state of the band and can't wait to give our fans the best album our hard work has to offer."
THE HUMAN ABSTRACT announced in November that it was once again working with the band's original guitarist, A.J. Minette. Minette is part of the writing force and will serve as producer for the third THE HUMAN ABSTRACT album.
THE HUMAN ABSTRACT's "Counting Down The Days" video can be viewed below. The song comes off the band's sophomore full-length album, "Midheaven", which came out in August 2008 via Hopeless Records.
Although the initial sessions for "Midheaven" were helmed by veteran producer Toby Wright (METALLICA , SLAYER, ALICE IN CHAINS, SOULFLY, FEAR FACTORY), the CD was completed with a different producer and Wright's name was "wiped off all credits," according to drummer Brett Powell.
THE HUMAN ABSTRACT's Hopeless Records debut, "Nocturne", was released in August 2006.
Savannah, Georgia-based band KYLESA, whose 2009 album "Static Tensions" was one of the most critically acclaimed metal LPs of last year, has inked a deal with Season of Mist. The group has commenced work on its new CD for a late 2010 release.
"We're very happy to announce our new partnership with Season of Mist for the next KYLESA release, which we are hoping to get out later this year," said the band. "We are stoked to be working with Season of Mist on this next album. They are a forward-thinking label and they have all been very accommodating and a pleasure to work with."
Regarding the new album, KYLESA added, "The writing process for the new record has been intense, taking up the better part of each day since January (that's why you haven't heard from us lately), but in return we have some new material that we're very proud of. The studio sessions at The Jam Room in Columbia start in May and end in early July; we'll try to have a few reports for you along the way."
The band is currently touring Europe until early May and will perform at the Roadburn festival in Tilburg, The Netherlands on April 15.
Swedish experimental extreme metallers MESHUGGAH have been confirmed for the Close-Up Båten cruise, which will leave the Stockholm, Sweden port on September 9 for Åbo, Finland, and return the following day.
The billing is shaping up as follows:
CRASHDIET
DARK TRANQUILLITY
HELLSONGS
MESHUGGAH
THE KRISTET UTSEENDE
For more information, go to this location.
DARK TRANQUILLITY was supposed to take part in the last Close-up Båten festival at the end of February but was forced to cancel its appearance at the event in order to take part in a U.S. tour with KILLSWITCH ENGAGE and THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA .
Hellbound's Justin M. Norton recently conducted an interview with TRIPTYKON's Tom Gabriel Fischer about CELTIC FROST's breakup; working with V. Santura and his relationships with H.R. Giger and Vincent Castiglia. A couple of excerpts from the chat follow below.
Hellbound: There was a big public response when the band broke up — so many people were happy just to have CELTIC FROST back . Did that cross your mind when things were falling apart?
Fischer: Of course. CELTIC FROST was extremely important to me. I didn't bring it back to see it fall apart. I brought it back to be a working unit. As you said before, I planned on recording many more albums with the band. CELTIC FROST was as important to me as the members of our audience. I didn't just leave CELTIC FROST in the heat of the moment. It took an immeasurable amount of personal problems for me to walk out of my own band. I was the main songwriter in CELTIC FROST. We worked for so many years to achieve the status that we only achieved at the very end. It was difficult to let that go on every level.
Hellbound: One thing that's been a constant during your career has been that every album has changed significantly from the last but TRIPTYKON keeps to the spirit and form of "Monotheist". How did you approach the songwriting on this album differently than with CELTIC FROST?
Fischer: I've heard all kinds of opinions on that. A lot of people say it's completely different. Some people say it's very much like "Monotheist". I personally think it's a development from where I started from "Monotheist". It's like when I wrote "Morbid Tales" in 1984 and later I wrote "To Mega Therion". There are parallels between the two albums but there is also a lot of development. I'm a musician and I write constantly. I always think about the next album. The songwriting was a continued process up to last December. It's a natural progression. I wanted to develop the music I created on "Monotheist". It's related, but not the same.
Hellbound: Are you still rehearsing and playing in the same bunker where you worked on "Monotheist"?
Fischer: No. I proposed to the other members of CELTIC FROST after the breakup that we should continue to use the same bunker. I even offered them the use of my PA systems. I wanted to be constructive. I thought we had already created enough damage. I thought we could learn from it and cooperate on our respective new projects. But they turned me down. So I had to relocate across town to a new bunker. In hindsight it's probably better because the old bunker had so many negative memories. I'm quite happy with how things turned out.
Hellbound: Another addition to the album is Vincent Castiglia, who illustrated the band portrait in his own blood. Did that relationship come about as part of your relationship with Giger?
Fischer: Loosely. I was first introduced to Vincent by Giger's American agent Les Baranay. A few years ago he took me to Brooklyn to Vincent's workshop. I stood in front of these six and seven-foot tall paintings. Seeing the gargantuan size and knowing that this was all done with his blood, it was overwhelming. Talking to Vincent the first time at the opening was eye opening. We've become close friends and discovered numerous parallels in our lives. We feel emotionally related which made it even more special when he agreed to collaborate on this album. There are three artists working on this album if you include the band. It's a collaboration between friends.
BLOOD FEAST, ARES KINGDOM and OCTOBER 31 are among the bands who will perform at the Defenders Of The Old Fest, set to take place October 16, 2010 at Soanr in Baltimore.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows:
* BLOOD FEAST (NJ thrash legends)
* TYRANT (Californian epic metal master!)
* ARES KINGDOM (feat. members of ORDER FROM CHAOS)
* OCTOBER 31 (first show in four years!)
* VERMEFUG (NYC old school thrashers)
* FISCHEL'S BEAST (feat. SENTINEL BEAST's Barry Fischel)
* EXTERMINATION ANGEL (Baltimore death metal)
THREAT SIGNAL and MUTINY WITHIN have been confirmed as the support acts on DARK TRANQUILLITY's upcoming North American headlining tour.
So far the following dates have been announced:
May 11 - Raleigh, NC - Volume 11 Tavern
May 12 - West Springfield, VA - Jaxx
May 13 - Philadelphia, PA - The Trocadero
May 14 - Farmingdale, NY - The Crazy Donkey
May 16 - Allston, MA - Harper's Ferry
May 17 - Montreal, QC - Foufounes Electriques
May 19 - Quebec City, QC - Theatre Imperial
May 20 - Torondo, ON - Opera House
May 21 - Chicago, IL - Reggie's Rock Club
May 23 - Winnipeg, MB - Pyramid Cabaret
May 24 - Regina, SK - The Exchange
May 25 - Edmonton, AB - The Starlite Room
May 26 - Calgary, AB - The Republik
May 31 - San Francisco, CA - Slim's
Jun. 01 - West Hollywood, CA - Key Club
"We Are The Void", the ninth album from DARK TRANQUILLITY, sold around 2,100 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 15 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.
"We Are The Void" was released in North America on March 9 via Century Media Records. The LP was made available in Europe as a CD, digital download and strictly limited-edition die-cut digipak featuring two bonus songs ("Stars Of Nothingness" and "To Where Fires Cannot Feed") and a bonus DVD.
"Shadow In Our Blood", the new video from DARK TRANQUILLITY, was created by Vasara Films (TURISAS, DRAGONFORCE) who also filmed and edited DARK TRANQUILLITY's live DVD, "Where Death Is Most Alive".
DARK TRANQUILLITY will embark on a European headlining tour, dubbed "Where Death Is Most Alive Part II 2010", in September. Support on the trek will come from INSOMNIUM.
EXPLODE, a progressive metal band from Ira,n recently finished recording its new album entitled "Labyrinth of Solitude". According to a press release, the group's musical style "is influenced by bands from 80s thrash metal music ala MEGADETH and METALLICA and more modern prog metal like DREAM THEATER and OPETH."
"Labyrinth of Solitude" track listing:
01. The Frozen Tree (12:00
02. Inner Cell (12:20
03. Fallen Angel (08:13
04. Eternal Dream (09:02
05. The Last Thoughts of a Disturbed Mind (03:16)
The April issue of U.K.'s Metal Hammer magazine contains an article about EXPLODE and other Iranian metal bands.
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/explodeofficial.
Guitarist Ed LaVolpe has left reactivated New Jersey metallers EXXPLORER and has been replaced by original "Symphonies of Steel" (1985) axeman Kevin Kennedy. The lineup continues otherwise unchanged, with Lennie Rizzo on vocals, Mike Sakowski on drums, Jay McCaffery on bass, and Kevin Kennedy and Fred Gorhau on guitars.
EXXPLORER is currently writing and recording a new album for a mid-2010 release.
EXXPLORER was formed over 25 years ago in West Keansburg, New Jersey. The band's first album, "Symphonies of Steel", has been "recognized for well over 20 years as one of the most innovative heavy metal albums of all time," according to the group's official bio. "The LP topped the charts in several countries for overall import sales, and appeared at the top of hundreds of radio play lists throughout Europe, and in many then-still-communist countries. During this period of time, EXXPLORER continued to be one of the tri-state area's favorite heavy metal bands, appearing in concert with an elaborate stage show, and the powerful momentum generated from their European success."
EXXPLORER's second album, "A Recipe for Power", was released in 1994. Although a long time had passed between the first and second albums, the fans loved "A Recipe for Power" for its blend of eighties progressive power metal and an up-to-date Nineties feel. These were the songs that the band honed during the period of time when they were going through numerous management and personal trials.
Soon after the release of "A Recipe for Power", EXXPLORER had major personnel changes. Vocalist Lennie Rizzo, bassist Jimmy Gardner, and guitarist Kevin Kennedy left the band for personal reasons. Jay MaCaffrey took over as the new bassist, Barry Hocking Jr. took control of vocals, and Fred Gorhau took over as the new guitarist. The new lineup spent 1997 recording "Coldblackugly" with producer Bruce Buchanan. Due to creative and directional differences, this version of the band split in 1999.
Gore metal legends NECROPHAGIA will headline FireWalk Music 's first annual FireWalk Fest, set to take place June 26 at The Rave in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Also scheduled to appear are ACHERON, JUNGLE ROT and CARDIAC ARREST, among many others. NECROPHAGIA will also make an in-store appearance at FireWalk Music the evening of Friday, June 25.
FireWalk Music is located at 2192 S. 60th St in West Allis, Wisconsin.
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/firewalkfest.
NECROPHAGIA will begin working on a series of videos for an upcoming DVD, to be titled "The Gospel of Gore", once it has completed the recording of its long-awaited new album, "Deathtrip 69". Some early names the band has expressed interest in working with include Hart D. Fisher, Jim Vanbebber, Herschell Gordon Lewis, Tom Savini, Ryan Nicholson, Toe Tag Pictures, Don Edmonds, Gunnar Hansen, Jovanka Vuckovic and Mariano Baino.
Boris Randall (formerly of HALLOWMAS) recently joined NECROPHAGIA and will appear on "Deathtrip 69", which is now scheduled for a Halloween 2010 release. Boris and NECROPHAGIA frontman Frank "Killjoy" Pucci have been working on material for the CD, which will mark the group's first all-new release in over five years. Songtitles set to appear on the album include "Suffering Comes in Sixes", "Reborn Through Blackmass", "Celluliod Screams" and "Bleeding Eyes of the Eternally Damned".
NECROPHAGIA's forthcoming CD will feature contributions by Opal Enthroned. She was originally a member of the band during the period when her now ex-husband Philip Anselmo (PANTERA, DOWN) was playing guitar for NECROPHAGIA.
Opal made her NECRO debut on the "Cannibal Holocaust" EP in 2001. She also worked with Pucci and Anselmo in the now-defunct raw black metal project VIKING CROWN.
Quebec City, Quebec, Canada-based black metallers MORGUE have released their debut album, "Flames and Blood". The CD was produced by Francois "Blastbeat" Fortin (TWISTED MINDS) and contains "eight tracks of pure intensity and crushing riffs," according to a press release. The cover artwork was designed by Nicolas Francoeur (KÄLTER, FARSIGHT).
"Flames and Blood" track listing:
01. Intro
02. Incinerate The Crucified
03. I Walk A Path Of Carnage
04. Destinée Funeste
05. Mater Dolorosa
06. La Forêt Des Empalés
07. To Below We Belong
08. Par Le Sang, Par La Haine
MORGUE is:
Goliatt - Vocals
Iron - Guitar
Maimed – Guitar
Funeste - Bass
Panzer - Drums
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/morguequebec.
Brazilian death/dark metal band REST IN DISGRACE released its seven-track debut EP, "As Beauty Springs From Mud...", in March. According to a press release, the CD contains "heavy riffs, remarkable vocals and lyrical influences coming from buddhism, hindu mythology and pessimistic philosophies, yet some of the contemporary anguish and vanity. "
"As Beauty Springs From Mud..." track listing:
01. Samsara
02. Ascendance
03. The Veil Of Maya
04. Dreaming
05. Vanity
06. The Dying Lotus
07. Unnamed Feelings / Descension
REST IN DISGRACE's lineup includes vocalist Rafael Basso (SOTURNUS, HATE LIBERATION, UNLIT FACE), guitarist João Pachá (BEFAMAL, THYRESIS, DISSIDIUM) and bassist Márcio Quirino (DISSIDIUM, SOTURNUS).
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/restindisgrace.
French black metallers TEMPLE OF BAAL have parted ways with longtime drummer Antares. The band is currently looking for a replacement. Interested parties can contact the group at templeofbaal@myspace.com.
TEMPLE OF BAAL released its third album, "Lightslaying Rituals", in November 2009 via Agonia Records. It was made available as a CD, limited digipack and limited LP.
"Lightslaying Rituals" was recorded at Hybreed Studios by Andrew Guillotin (GLORIOR BELLI). Visual aspect was handled by MKM (ANTAEUS, AOSOTH) and Vertigo Photography.
According to a press release, "when it comes to French black metal, TEMPLE OF BAAL is often mentioned as an example of integrity and excellence. Formed in 1998, with two full-lengths ('Servants Of The Beast' and 'Traitors To Mankind') a load of split EPs, strong of a very good live reputation (the band has shared the stage with acts like DESTROYER 666, WATAIN or REVENGE), TEMPLE OF BAAL is one of the most respected bands of the French black metal scene. . . 'Lightslaying Rituals' [sees the group] blending occult black metal atmospheres, death metal aggression, intense guitar leads with the darkest aspects of spirituality."
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/templeofbaal.
ODEM ARCARUM, the band featuring SECRETS OF THE MOON guitarist Ar, has just released a new album, "Outrageous Reverie Above The Erosion Of Barren Earth", via Osmose Productions. The CD, which is available as luxurious digipack with a 12-page booklet, is described in a press release as "a trip to the origin of existence itself, a journey to the inner most impulse of self mastery and elevation."
Formed in 1995, ODEM ARCARUM was raised under the banner of traditional black metal. After some lineup changes, Ar and C.A. recorded a first demo and a self-released EP in 2000 called "Awaiting the Horizon of Chaos".
In 2003 ODEM ARCARUM issued the self-released full-length "Bloody Traces in the Virgin Snow". After this CD, Skoarth and Zahak joined ODEM ARCARUM in 2003/2004 as permanent members.
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/odemarcarum666.
U.K. death metallers ANNOTATIONS OF AN AUTOPSY have pulled out of their previously announced U.S. tour with CARNIFEX, SUFFOKATE and UPON A BURNING BODY, which kicked off earlier this week in Vineland, New Jersey.
Commented ANNOTATIONS OF AN AUTOPSY in a statement: "The reason we are not on the CARNIFEX tour is because we, as a band, decided against doing it. It's [got] nothing to do with the [other] bands [on the bill], [and] no, we don't hate America —we love you. The reason being currently we are not in a place where we wanted to spend four months straight on the road which is what it would have been with tour after tour. We all have things going on in our lives at home currently that need our attention and family comes first. None of us were on the right state of mind to be able to spend that much time away, [and] at this moment in time we didnt feel we were ready for that much touring. So we pulled out to take some time off and spend some time with our loved ones.
"We know this is the second time we've pulled a U.S. tour and we know you guys must be pissed but we have to do what is right for us.
"No, we are not splitting up or anything like that nor are we going on hiatus. We're not interested in shit-talking or little comments on lambthingy or any other lifeless troll swamp about how we should be used to touring. The bottom line is we've toured our asses off and sometimes you need to step back and look out for yourselves."
"The Reign Of Darkness", the new album from ANNOTATIONS OF AN AUTOPSY, sold around 1,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at No. 34 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 Reign Of Darkness" was recorded at Foel Studio in Wales and was engineered by Chris Fielding. The CD was mixed by Erik Rutan (HATE ETERNAL, MORBID ANGEL, CANNIBAL CORPSE) at Mana Recording Studio in St. Petersburg, Florida.
ANNOTATIONS OF AN AUTOPSY recently announced the addition of bassist Nath Applegate and drummer Brad Merry (DAM, TRENCHHEAD, RAISE THE DEAD) to the group's ranks.
Quebec's black/death metal trio NECRONOMICON will release its new album, "The Return Of The Witch", via Austria's Napalm Records on the following dates:
June 2 - Spain
June 4 - Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Benelux, Italy, Sweden
June 7 - Rest of Europe
June 8 - USA/Canada
The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Into The Fire (4:54)
02. The Awakening (4:50)
03. The Time Is Now (3:14)
04. Necropolis (4:14)
05. The Order Of The Moon (7:09)
06. The Return Of The Witch (4:21)
07. Lillith (2:21)
08. Alpha And Omega (5:33)
09. Seven (4:08)
Check out the cover artwork below.
Commented vocalist/guitarist Rob "The Witch": "The band is very happy to finally join forces with the people at Napalm Records. I feel a good vibe in working with the label and am anxious to bring our music to the metal fans around the world.
"Working on this band for so many years makes me appreciate even more when people believe in our talent, and it's encouraging to know that we'll have a solid team behind us. We look forward to new ventures and meeting die hard and new fans alike on the road."
"The Time is Now", the new video from NECRONOMICON, can be viewed below. The clip was shot in 2008 with Benoit Nantel (GHOULUNATICS, URBAN ALIEN, LES ECORCHES) who "did his best to capture the band's atmosphere and power." NECRONOMICON is said to be "really satisfied" with the end result and plans to work with Nantel again in the near future.
"The Time is Now" comes off "The Return Of The Witch", which was mastered with reputed engineer Maor Appelbaum (HALFORD, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, THERION, etc).
"The Return Of The Witch" features guest appearances by Arianne Fleury (ex-AUGURY) and Roxanne Constantin (NEGATIVA, QUO VADIS), among others.
The band previously stated that the follow-up to 2003's "The Sacred Medicines" would "probably be the fastest and most brutal" CD the group has released thus far.
Guitarist/vocalist Balmore Lemus has left Los Angeles-based neo-classical death purveyors EXMORTUS "for personal reasons." The band states, "right now Conan [Gonzalez; lead guitar, backing vocals] will be jumping to vocals while maintaining his lead guitar duties but we still need another killer guitarist." Interested parties can contact the group via the EXMORTUS MySpace page.
EXMORTUS's debut album, "In Hatred's Flame", was released in July 2008 via Heavy Artillery Records. Armed with a diverse array of influences from IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST and YNGWIE MALMSTEEN to SLAYER, MARDUK and DEICIDE, the CD "showcases the band's unique blend of brutality and finesse," according to a press release. The album features cover artwork by legendary artist Kris Verwimp, who has previously worked with ARCH ENEMY, MARDUK, ABSU, OLD MAN'S CHILD, IMMORTAL and many others. The limited vinyl edition includes deluxe packaging and a digital download card and was also made available as a numbered mailorder-only deluxe colored vinyl edition.
Capital Chaos has uploaded video footage (see below) of EXMORTUS' April 20, 2009 performance at Java Cafe/420 Fest in Fair Oaks, California.
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/exmortus.
Washington D.C.'s PERIPHERY has been added to THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN's upcoming Australian tour. Also appearing on the bill is SONS OF DISASTER.
The dates are as follows:
May 16 - The Capitol - Perth, Australia
May 18 - Fowlers - Adelaide, Australia
May 19 - The Palace - Melbourne, Australia
May 21 - The Metro - Sydney, Australia
May 22 - The Metro - Sydney, Australia
May 23 - The Hi-Fi - Brisbane, Australia
Combing the complex atypical rhythms and technical precision of math rock with the sensational brutality of progressive metal, PERIPHERY will unleash its self-titled debut on April 20 through Sumerian Records. A track from the CD, "The Walk", is now available for streaming on the band's MySpace page.
"'The Walk' is a very special song for us," says guitarist Misha Mansoor. "Apart from being one of the oldest ones, it is also one of the heaviest ones we have to offer, and we love playing it live and wanted to share the album version with all the fans so they could enjoy it as well!"
Last month, the guys traveled to Boston to film a new video with Killswitch Productions and directors Mike Pecci and Ian McFarland (FEAR FACTORY, MESHUGGAH), before setting out on the road with KITTIE and GOD FORBID.
"Wait until you see this video," says Pecci. "Loaded with epic shots, heroic stances, and awesome band performances, I will say that it is Ian's and my most abstract piece to date! Working with the guys from PERIPHERY was a blast!"
States guitarist Alex Bois: "It was an honor to work with Ian, Mike and crew! As this was our first video, we didn't realize how exciting the filming process could be. Now, we fully understand where all the hype surrounding these guys comes from and we WILL be working with them on future projects!"
Founded in 2004 by guitarist Misha Mansoor, PERIPHERY seems to always be drawing from a constant stream of inspiration. To date, the band has recorded over 100 songs and continues to deliver new tracks on a regular basis, each time pushing the envelope on its compositional structures.
Taking the DIY approach to getting their music heard, PERIPHERY garnered the attention of metal fans across the globe by deciding to make all of its songs available to listeners online. Inspired by its fans' feedback and fervent requests, the band frequently adds new music and video blogs, constantly cultivating a stronger online presence.
This continuous exposure on the web, combined with a strong hometown following, provided PERIPHERY the opportunity to showcase its explosive live show and music on national tours such as Summer Slaughter, the Thrash and Burn Tour and select dates with BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME, DARKEST HOUR, LAMB OF GOD and DESPISED ICON.
PERIPHERY is:
Spencer Sotelo - Vocals
Misha Mansoor - Guitar
Alex Bois - Guitar
Jake Bowen - Guitar
Tom Murphy - Bass
Matt Halpern - Drums
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/periphery.
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