- From Beyond Productions will first rerelease RESUSCITATOR's debut full length album 'Cursed visions from his infernal realm' this spring. The new full length will follow at the end of this year.
- Drummer Paul Bostaph (Forbidden, Slayer) has been drafted to sit behind the kit for TESTAMENT - the current lineup is rounded out by: Chuck Billy (v), Eric Peterson (g), Steve Smyth (g) and Steve DiGiorgio (b). Metal Update
- HALLOWS EVE, the 80's thrash act has regrouped - bassist Tommy Stewart is joined by 'Tales Of Terror' guitarist Skully (formerly known as Skellator) and vocalist Steve Cannon, editor of the internet 'zine Vibrations Of Doom. Metal Update
- Dick Lövgren (Arch Enemy, In Flames) has replaced Gustaf Hielm on bass guitar in MESHUGGAH. Metal Update
- VADER drummer Doc seriously injured his hand and leg during the third day of recording - as a result, the band was forced to cancel the session and postpone recordings until May - in light of the seriousness of the injury, Daray (Vesania) will join the band as a session drummer on the new album and will also play with Vader on upcoming tours. Metal Update
- FLESHTIZED has officially reformed with the following lineup: vocalist Rob Kline (Pessimist, Psychotegen), guitarist Sonny Lombardozzi (Incantation, SevenGates), bassist Garth Lovvorn and drummer Gary White - the follow up to "Here, Among Thorns" is in the works. Metal Update
- YAKUZA bassist Eric Clark has parted ways with the band - Brett Bamberger (The Postman Syndrome) will stand in for upcoming tour dates. Metal Update
- MAPLE CROSS guitarists Late and Sami Siekkinen have been replaced by Avather (Thyrane) and J. Henttunen (Sethery). Metal Update
- In the wake of his split with Queens Of The Stone Age, bassist Nick Oliveri will be concentrating on MONDO GENERATOR full-time. Metal Update
- DAMAGEPLAN "New Found Power" debuted at number 38 on The Billboard 200 chart with 44,676 copies sold in the US in the first week. Metal Update
- Reports indicate that the 2004 OZZFEST lineup is as follows:
MAIN STAGE
Ozzy Osbourne
Judas Priest
Slayer
Dimmu Borgir
Superjoint Ritual
Black Label Society
SECOND STAGE
Slipknot
Hatebreed
Lamb Of God
ROTATING
Atreyu
Bleeding Through
Lacuna Coil
Every Time I Die
Unearth
God Forbid
Metal Update - METAL MANIACS PRESENTS:
VITAL REMAINS
with Black Dahlia Murder, Cattle Decapitation, Watch Them Die
3/7 Pinella’s Expo Center – Pinellas Park, FL
3/12 Cricket Club – Irvington, NJ
3/19 Aldridge Arena – Maplewood, MN
5/02 Jester’s Pub – Fayetteville, NC
5/03 Jaxx – West Springfield, VA
5/04 Downtown – Farmingdale, NY
5/05 The Trocadero – Philadelphia, PA
5/07 Knitting Factory – New York, NY
5/08 Club Liquid – Providence, RI
5/09 Peabody’s – Cleveland, OH
5/11 Pop’s – Sauget, IL
5/12 Reverb – Cedar Falls, IA
5/13 Vnuk’s Lounge – Milwaukee, WI
5/14 Oasis One-Sixty – Chicago Heights, IL
5/15 Ranch Bowl – Omaha, NE
5/16 Rock Island – Denver, CO
5/19 Key Club – Los Angeles, CA
5/20 Galaxy Theater – Santa Ana, CA
5/21 Mason Jar – Phoenix, AZ
5/22 Launchpad – Albuquerque, NM - EINHERJER NO MORE
After 11 years, 4 albums and 2 mini-albums we've decided to split up Einherjer. We feel that we've made the album we wanted with Blot and therefore a journey of 11 years has come to an end. We would like to thank everybody who has supported us through the years. For us, it is time to move on. We are definitively not retiring as musicians, so you haven't heard the last from us yet.
Regards
Frode, Aksel & Gerhard
www.einherjer.com Metal Maniacs - WOLF SIGNS TO PROSTHETIC
After weeks of speculation, Prosthetic Records is proud to announce the signing of Swedish metal sensation WOLF. Beginning with the release of the bands Evil Star album on April 27th and followed by the release of the bands self-titled debut Wolf and 2002's momentous Black Eyes both on May 4th at a special low-dough price. The Evil Star will feature 2 bonus tracks not available on the Swedish version and was produced by Hypocrisy mainman Peter Tägtgren.
www.prostheticrecords.com Metal Maniacs - KATAKLYSM NEWS
KATAKLYSM have decided to postpone their South African, Russian and Baltic states tour, originally scheduled for May to a later time this year. Instead, the band will be touring North America throughout the spring & summer, beginning April 30th at the New England Metal Fest. The tour dubbed "No More Serenity" will be presented by Metal Maniacs and the line up will be KATAKLYSM / MISERY INDEX / CANNAE / THROUGH THE DISCIPLINE. More North American touring is getting sorted out for this June, details to be announced shortly.
Speaking of Metal Maniacs presenting the tour, KATAKLYSM will be sporting the full front cover of the next issue!... So don't miss it, you might find some interesting discussions!
The Hyperblasters have also confirmed the Saturday headlining spot at the "Up the Ground!" open air festival in Germany on August 28th.
In other KATAKLYSM related news, drummer Martin Maurais has signed an endorsement deal with D-Sound drums! Martin will have his own custom-made drum kit built exclusively for him. He has also signed an endorsement deal with Tama for the "Cobra" kick drum pedals.
Serenity in Fire is set to put the world to ashes on March 8th in Europe and March 9th in North America.
Upcoming tour dates:
25.03. USA CHICAGO, IL @ BOTTOM LOUNGE
26.03. CAN TORONTO, ON @ CLUB ROCKIT
27.03. CAN MONTREAL, QC @ CLUB SODA
30.03. D OSNABRUCK @ HYDE PARK
31.03. D ESSEN @ ZECHE CARL
01.04. D BERLIN @ HALFORD
02.04. CZ PRAGUE @ ABATON CLUB
03.04. A WIEN @ PLANET MUSIC
04.04. A SALZBURG @ ROCKHOUSE
05.04. CH PRATTELN @ Z7
06.04. ITA MILANO @ ALCATRAZ
07.04. D LUDWIGSBURG @ ROCK FABRIK
08.04. FR STRASBOURG @ LA LAITERIE
09.04. D MUNSTER @ LIVE ARENA
10.04. BL ANTWERPEN @ HOF TER LOO
11.04. FR PARIS @ LA LOCOMOTIVE
12.04. NL TILBURG @ 013
13.04. UK LONDON @ UNDERWORLD
14.04. IRL DUBLIN @ WHELANS
15.04. UK BRADFORD @ RIO
16.04. FR RENNES @ ANTIPODE
17.04. FR WOIPPY @ SALLE SAINT EXUPERY
18.04. FR NOTRE DAME DE GRAVENCHON @ ARCADE
20.04. FR MACON @ CAVAZIK
21.04. FR TOULOUSE @ HAVANA CLUB
22.04. SP IRUN @ TUNK
23.04. SP BARCELONA @ MEPHISTO
24.04. SP MADRID @ CARACOL
25.04. FR T.B.A.
26.04. T.B.A.
30.04. New England Metal & Hardcore Fest. @The Palladium*
*No more Serenity tour more dates coming soon...
01.07 D With Full Force open air
28.08 D Up The Ground open air
www.kataklysm.net Metal Maniacs - SATYRICON SIGN TO EATURMUSIC
SATYRICON, one of the most well-respected and legendary bands on the European Black Metal scene, has signed an agreement with eatURmusic, the label run by System of a Down producer/guitarist Daron Malakian. The agreement calls for eatURmusic to license three Satyricon albums for exclusive distribution in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, Asia and Australia. Volcano, Satyricon's first CD for eatURmusic, as well as the label's debut release, is set for an April 6, 2004 release in the U.S. and will be marketed by RED Ink and distributed by RED Distribution in conjunction with Columbia Records/SONY Music. Release dates in the international territories will be announced shortly.
"Anyone who knows Black Metal knows that Satyricon is that genre's premiere band," said Malakian. "I have been a huge fan of the Black Metal scene for years, and I am so honored that Satyricon has signed with my label. Volcano is an exceptional record, in my opinion, the best they've recorded; it's honest, it has integrity, and I feel it will introduce them to a new audience."
Volcano was recently released in Europe, and has met with great success. The album has already been recognized with four awards - it has received the Norwegian Grammy for "Best Metal Album," two Alarm awards, one for "Song of the Year" for the track "Fuel For Hatred," and the other in the category of "Metal Album of the Year," and The Oslo Award for "Best Overall Album." Robert Muller, journalist for Metal Hammer Germany raves, "This darkness is no romantic invention, no abstract delusion, but derived from firsthand experience. The sound of Volcano is the sound of the cozy cocoon of civilization torn apart, it envisions the cold emptiness behind." Metal Maniacs - SUSPERIA - UNLIMITED now UNLEASHED
Oslo, Norway - Norwegian five piece SUSPERIA are set to release their eagerly awaited third album, Unlimited, on 22nd March 2004 through Tabu Recordings (a Div of Tuba Records, Norway). The album was recorded over a period of two months during 2003 at Subsonic Society Studios in Oslo and Studio Fredman (At The Gates, Soilwork) in Gothenburg, Sweden with production duties being undertaken by the band.
Unlimited is the follow up to their ground breaking Vindication album and delivers an agressive collection of tracks featuring 'Chemistry', 'The Coming Past', 'Situational Awareness', 'Devil May Care', 'Off The Grid', 'Years Of Infinity', 'Home Sweet Hell', 'Mind Apart', 'Beast By Design', 'Untouched'. The track 'Chemistry' has been chosen to be the first video from the album. The band are currently in talks with various production teams and work is due to commence shortly.
The Norwegian metallers have also recorded a version of a well known song with a view to future release, details of which will be disclosed shortly. The choice will come as a surprise to many but in the meantime the band are relishing in the guessing game.
SUSPERIA, who are vocalist Athera, bass guitarist Memnock, drummer Tjodalv (Dimmu Borgir), guitarists Elvorn and Cyrus, have grabbed the opportunity to develop and hone their music and songwriting skills. This has been reflected in the performance and maturity on the new release.The buzz on the album after this years industry convention at 'Midem' in France has proved enormous. All the signs are that 'Unlimited' will be one of the highlights of the genre this year and has been described as "Pantera on speed, driving madly, with Slayer in the backseat, grinning like hell!!". The band have made one of the "must have" metal albums of 2004 -no fillers, just killers.
Their live campaign launches with an appearance at one of Norways' premier rock events, the Infeno Festival www.infernofestival.net in Oslo on Friday 9th April 2004, where the band will be sharing the bill with the likes of Zyklon and Enslaved. A Scandinavian and full European tour are currently in the pipeline, details of which will be anounced shortly. With a new label and new management behind the band SUSPERIA are now firing on all cylinders.
www.susperia.net Metal Maniacs - The Inexorable FEAR FACTORY Returns with Archetype on April 20th
Through Liquid 8 Records
Experimentation and innovation are concepts rarely undertaken and even less frequently immediately accepted by the masses. With Los Angeles' genre-defying FEAR FACTORY, it is expected. Having sold more than 1.2 million albums over its career (with albums charting in the Billboard Top 100 and Top 40 respectively), the pioneering force known as FEAR FACTORY continues in the groundbreaking style many have emulated but none have duplicated on its upcoming fifth full-length release, Archetype.
Released on April 20th through Liquid 8 Records, a label celebrating artist diversity, Archetype exhibits FEAR FACTORY'smusical craftsmanship at its most precise. Says drummer Raymond Herrera on the completion of the album, "With its heaviness, melodiousness, and precision, it is quickly apparent that there is no substitute for Fear Factory." Michael Catain, CEO of Liquid 8 Records & Entertainment, is looking forward to the new release. "This album puts Fear Factory back on track. It's really true to the band's signature sound. We are behind this release 100 percent."
Vocal acrobat Burton C. Bell offers his thoughts on the release. "When you look up the definition of the word, 'archetype', it's the actual model from which everything else is copied. Fear Factory is that in my opinion, and Archetype is a defining moment for us." As one of the first bands in modern metal to mix hardcore with industrial beats and synthesizers, FEAR FACTORY also experimented with full album remixes long before the practice came into vogue, branching their fan base beyond the pits to the dance floors, which created an ever-increasing and rabid fan base.
FEAR FACTORY's lineup currently consists of longtime members Bell on vocals, Herrera on drums, Christian Olde Wolbers on lead guitar, and newcomer Byron Stroud on bass (formerly a member of the manic Strapping Young Lad). Archetype is the band's first album for Liquid 8 Records, and the band could not be more excited. "People at Liquid 8 are very supportive and hyped on the idea of working with a band like Fear Factory," says Burton. "That's important, because we need people to believe in our music, and when you love something it's easier to work. We're all very comfortable with Liquid 8 and everyone is happy."
A special remix version of the song "Archetype" currently appears on the PlayStation 2 game NFL Gameday 2004. FEAR FACTORY also recently wrapped the first video from Archetype, "Cyberwaste," which was filmed in a derelict power plant in Perth, Australia. Says Bell on the experience, "We went through the song about 8 times, getting different angles, and using different lenses to catch several concepts. As the day progressed, the sun was setting through the large windows behind us, creating ghostly silhouettes behind the set. I can't wait to see the finished video, because there is no way that this can't look great!"
Herrera concurs, "The secluded city of Perth hosting the 'Cyberwaste' video, brought FEAR FACTORY fans out to participate along with the band to create an experienced rarely seen. From the hungriness of the fans to the extreme energy of he song itself, it starts, pummels, and just doesn't let up." Look for the video to debut on television in March.
In keeping with FEAR FACTORY's penchant for multimedia exposure & promotion (the band's music has appeared in several blockbuster films, as well as numerous popular videogames), plans for Archetype include extensive online outreach, concentrated radio promotion, and a special DVD promotion. The initial press run of Archetype will include one limited edition bonus DVD with every CD, and will come in two different versions, one containing "Australian Tour w/ Korn, 2004", a live concert, and the other offering Fear Factory Documentary: The Making Of Archetype." In addition to this, each Archetype CD will contain a ticket containing a bonus code, which will direct fans to www.liquid8records.com to access exclusive bonus content on-line, and to register their 9-digit code to see if they won a "Golden Ticket." The "Golden Ticket" winner will receive a trip for two anywhere in the continental US to see Fear Factory perform live and to meet the band.
On the topic of touring, FEAR FACTORY is excited to announce its participation on this year's Jagermeister tour with Slipknot. The tour commences on March 30th in Orlando and concludes in Sacramento in mid-May. Look for FEAR FACTORY to further infest North America this summer!
Current tour itinerary includes:
March 30th Orlando, FL Hard Rock Live
March 31st W. Palm Beach, FL Sound Advice Amphitheater
April 2nd Birmingham, AL Sloss Furnace
April 3rd Atlanta, GA Tabernacle
April 4th Myrtle Beach, SC House of Blues
April 6th Winston-Salem, NC Millenium Center
April 8th Norfolk, VA NorVa
April 9th Washington, DC Nation
April 10th Worcester, MA The Palladium
April 12th New York, NY Roseland Ballroom
April 13th Philadelphia, PA Electric Factory
April 14th Rochester, NY ESL Sports Center
April 16th Detroit, MI Harpo's
April 17th Cleveland, OH Tower City Amphitheater
April 18th Columbus, OH Promowest Pavilion
April 20th Grand Rapids, MI Orbit Room
April 22nd St. Paul, MN Roy Wilkens Auditorium
April 23rd Chicago, IL Congress Theatre
April 24th Milwaukee, WI Eagles Ballroom
April 26th Kansas City, MO Memorial Hall
April 27th Des Moines, IA 7 Flags Event Center
April 28th St. Louis, MO The Pageant
April 30th Houston, TX Verizon Wireless Theatre
May 1st Dallas, TX Nextstage @ grand Prairie
May 2nd Oklahoma City, OK Bricktown Events Center
May 4th Denver, CO The Fillmore
May 7th Tempe, AZ Marquee Theatre
May 8th Las Vegas, NV House of Blues
May 9th San Diego, CA Soma
www.fearfactory.com
www.liquid8records.com Metal Maniacs - MARYLAND DEATHFEST - May 29 - 30, 2004
Repulsion, Exhumed, Leng Tch'e, Inhume and Bodies in the Gears of the Apparatus have also been confirmed for the 2004 fest.
Updated list of confirmed bands:
Repulsion (Michigan)
Macabre (Illinois)
Dead Infection (Poland)
Rotten Sound (Finland)
Exhumed (California)
Squash Bowels (Poland)
Last Days of Humanity (Netherlands)
Inhume (Netherlands)
Pig Destroyer (Virginia)
Vomit Remnants (Japan)
The Red Chord (Massachusetts)
Leng Tch'e (Belgium)
Internal Suffering (Colombia)
Profanity (Germany)
Malignancy (New York)
Mortal Decay (New Jersey)
Ion Dissonance (Canada)
Neuraxis (Canada)
Circle of Dead Children (Pennsylvania)
Man Must Die (Scotland)
Brodequin (Tennessee)
Fleshtized (Alabama)
Swarm of the Lotus (Maryland)
Bodies in the Gears of the Apparatus (New Jersey)
Biolich (New York)
May 29 and May 30, 2004
Baltimore, MD (Maryland USA)
www.supremebrutality.com
www.marylanddeathfest.com Metal Maniacs - Hellride Music and Blood of Tyrants Records will present "TEMPLARS
OF DOOM -- The First Crusade" an all DOOM festival. It will take
place in Indianapolis Indiana on Saturday, June 19th, 2004.
The following bands will perform:
Internal Void
Morgion
Place Of Skulls
While Heaven Wept
Warhorse
Novembers Doom
Pale Divine
Iron Kind
Orodruin
The Gates Of Slumber
Abdullah
Life Beyond
Lair Of The Minotaur
Salt Of The Earth
Servile
This Festival will take place at Rehearsal Studios
(3510 S. Keystone Ave. Indianapolis Indiana) and will
only be $20.
www.templarsofdoom.com for any information you want
and access to the official message board. Metal Maniacs
Metal Maniacs
- BAND BRINGS CONSENSUAL CANNIBALISM TO AMERICA
ST. PETERSBURG, FL - Industrial rock band, Hell On Earth, will feature consensual cannibalism during their Saturday, March 6th performance at the 1st Annual Sun and Steel Metalfest in Pinellas Park, FL. Bandleader, BillY Tourtelot was quoted as saying, “I haven’t eaten human meat before so it will be interesting to see what it tastes like. I understand it is quite a delicacy in some cultures.”
He went on to say that they plan to give their fans a chance to taste some of the disturbing cuisine. Tourtelot said, “We’re having an on-line contest on www.hellonearth.net. The winner will get to play “food critic for a day” by tasting the human meat during our show followed by his or her commentary to the audience regarding how it tastes.”
The 1st Annual Sun and Steel Metalfest is a two-day event that will feature over 50 extreme bands from around the world including Ice-T & Body Count, Testament and Prong.
For more information visit www.hellonearth.net. - PREJUDICE is officially taken off the No Mercy festivals bill! It's
NOT the fault from Prejudice but our label PAINKILLER that we can't
do this festival! Prejudice did all what was in the power to keep the
tour going. We wish to apologize to all metalfans that wanted to see
us on the No Mercy tour, we feel really pitty by this incident!
Also Prejudice is not dealing anymore with Painkiller rec because of all the ripp offs he did with us!
Painkiller = RIPP OFF!!!!
Prejudice is searching for a new label for the new album Dominion of chaos! - NOISE RECORDS Blasts into 2004 with Powerful New Releases
New Albums by Gamma Ray, Heavenly, Frost (feat. Jack Frost), and the Winners of
Young Metal Gods Competition Available This Spring
Celebrating 21 years in bringing the world the best in refined heavy metal music, Noise Records is proud to introduce a host of new releases, and new artists, for spring 2004. Metal fans can look forward to an exciting year of diverse new releases by the likes of Gamma Ray, Heavenly, Frost (featuring Seven Witches guitarist Jack Frost), Debase, Dragonforce, and debut releases from promising young talent like Persuader, Beyond Surface and Dyecrest.
Available on March 9th is the new solo effort by Seven Witches journeyman guitarist Jack Frost (also known for his work with Savatage, Metalium, and the Bronx Casket Co.). Under the moniker FROST, the album Raise Your Fist To Metal celebrates a diversity in both songwriting and guest talent. Jacks’ very intense and sensitive method of playing the guitar adds a very special touch to the various compositions, and for this release, he has brought along a number of friends from different musical backgrounds to bring the FROST project to fruition. Such guests include Gonzo Sandoval (Armored Saint), Johnny Dee (Doro, Britny Fox, Waysted), Mike Duda (W.A.S.P.), Joey Vera (Armored Saint, Fates Warning, Seven Witches), Billy Childs (Britny Fox), Mike LePond (Symphony X), Harry Hess (Harem Scarem), Bobby Lucas (Exhibition, ex-Seven Witches), Joe Comeau (ex-Annihilator, ex-Overkill, ex-Liege Lord), Steve Braun (Azlan), Jack Emrick (Life After Death), and Rob Rock (ex-Impellitteri, ex-Warrior, ex-Axel Rudi Pell). In keeping with the diversity of talent, FROST also offers 2 cover songs on Raise Your Fist To Metal, impressive takes on Kansas’ “Fight Fire With Fire”, and Ratt’s “Lack Of Communication”. With this release, Jack Frost continues his tradition of finely crafted heavy metal. An mp3 of the track “Stay” can be heard here: http://www.noiserecords.com/stream/frost/stay.mp3
Also available March 9th is the highly anticipated 3rd release from France’s HEAVENLY, a conceptual album entitled Dust To Dust. Mixed and mastered by the masters of symphonic power metal Philip Colodetti & Sascha Paeth (Angra, Rhapsody, Kamelot), Dust To Dust is an epic 3-chapter story narrating the tale of a man coping with the consequences of becoming a vampire. Many of the themes presented on the album are also designed to mirror life in the 21st century. HEAVENLY has truly outdone themselves on this release, which is both more aggressive and powerful than their previous efforts, but retains & enhances the band’s brand of class and sophistication. A special multimedia HEAVENLY e-card is available here: http://www.noiserecords.com/heavenly/dust/ecard/send.asp
March 9th will also finally see the release of the legendary GAMMA RAY’s special double-live album Skeletons In the Closet. This, the band’s second live album of their career, is unique in that the setlist for the live album was actually chosen by fans who participated in the online promotion at the official GAMMA RAY website. Over 100 minutes of epitomic GAMMA RAY perfection spans the 2 discs. Another distinctive fact about the album is that the tracklisting represents songs that had been rarely or never performed live during the course of the band’s 13-year career. Bandleader Kai Hansen explains, “The idea to to a tour with rarely or never live performed tracks was slowly born out of three facts: No. 1, was fans who, after every show asked us why we didn’t play this or that, respective songs that we did not take into consideration because they were not rated as ‘Gamma Ray hits’ by the pros. No. 2 was that for our own fun and satisfaction, we have again and again felt the selfish need to play something different than for instance ‘Land of the Free’ to keep us from getting bored with it sooner or later. No. 3 was the realization that if we felt so, some, or quite a few of our fans might feel the same.” The album will be released in both standard jewelbox and limited edition digipack (which features a 32-page booklet, 2 bonus videos and backstage footage in an enhanced segment). Fans can get a glimpse of what happens on the road with GAMMA RAY in this special tour diary:
http://www.noiserecords.com/gammaray/skeletons/tourdiary1.shtml
Coming April 20th are the debut releases from the 3 winners of the Young Metal Gods competition, a contest in which seven magazines from six different European countries voted on demo tapes submitted to them. The five finalists were invited to perform a ‘finals’ live show in Bochum, Germany, and based on that performance, the three best acts prize was a record deal with Noise Records and a debut album recorded under the guide of revered producer/musician Piet Sielck (Iron Savior, Blind Guardian). The winners were PERSUADER from Sweden, DYECREST from Finland, and BEYOND SURFACE from Germany. More information on the competition can be found here:
http://www.noiserecords.com/youngmetalgods/default.html
Hailing from Sweden, PERSUADER has a most promising future with the raging fury of their debut Evolution Purgatory. Elaborate riffs and hooklines combined with the power, energy and aggressiveness of the Swedes’ melodic speed metal, topped off by Jens Carlsson’s rich vocals make each song unique. Add this to the backup vocal performance by Piet Seilck, and a new lethal album has been created for the metal masses. Regarded by many European journalists as the brightest hope for the future of metal, PERSUADER is definitely a band to experience.
Finland’s DYECREST creates powerful melodic metal and move away from mimicking idols while implementing creative musical style with lush vocals. The debut album, The Way of Pain is exceptional in that it wields as much expression and self-belief as any given artist’s sophomore efforts. Janne Oksanen is a vocal chameleon, soaring through upper register passages one moment, mad as hell the next. The arrangements are clever and so above average, the listener will be shocked to acknowledge that this is a debut release.
Germany’s BEYOND SURFACE debut Destination’s End shows great stylistic diversity, utilizing forceful piano melodies, heavy guitars, sensitive arrangements and beautiful melodies. The band employs melancholic atmosphere, driving rhythms, and the ease and elegance of their songwriting has led European press to compare them with genre masters HIM. Guitarist Marten sums it up simply as, “Our supreme goal is to write good songs, which means combining beautiful melodies with heavy riffs and grooves. As we are pretty versatile, we feel more at home under the general term ‘rock music’.” Exceptional Rock music indeed. Check out the multimedia e-card here:
http://www.noiserecords.com/beyondsurface/destinations/ecard.html
Also released on April 20th is the 3rd release by Swedish powerhouse DEBASE, Unleashed. DEBASE can be referred to as the band that defies all attempts to be labeled. Critics internationally have, in positive reviews, planted them into genres like doom, thrash, power and neo-metal, and compared them to the likes of Machine Head, Rammstein, Metallica and Queensryche. Although their music may seem difficult to describe, there’s nothing complicated in DEBASE’s in-your-face delivery, brutal and above all catchy heavy metal, with extreme emphasis on ‘heavy’! The band has graced international stages touring with Judas Priest and Annihilator respectively. Experience the stunning rampage of DEBASE in the multimedia e-card here:
http://www.noiserecords.com/debase/unleashed/ecard.html
Noise Records has many additional amazing surprises in store for 2004, including new releases from Dragonforce, Iron Savior, Lake of Tears, Silent Force, and Seven Witches.
www.noiserecords.com - "LEASH LAW" complete debut album, set release date
Leash Law vocalist Wade Black and guitarist Rick Renstrom have just returned from Athens, Greece where they completed the mastering for the forthcoming debut album 'Dogface'. The two jetted off to Athens mere hours after the final mixing session was completed to hand-deliver the final mix and supervise the mastering session at Athens Mastering.
Following the completion of the mastering, a group of thirty-five journalists gathered to be the first to hear the debut album. Response to all of the songs was overwhelmingly positive and there is every indication that Leash Law will be a force to be reckoned with in 2004.
Following the album preview, a one-off acoustic set was performed by Wade and Rick at the Texas Club in Athens. More than 400 metal heads were in attendance.
"The Greek fans are the sickest, most intense metal freaks on the planet," Wade commented, "Metal is not a hobby for these people, it is their way of life."
Leash Law's 'Dogface' was recorded at A.R.S. Studios in Orlando, Florida and at RedKenyi Studios in Seminole, Florida over the past four months and features:
Wade Black - vocals
Rick Renstrom - lead guitar and keyboards
Emo Mowery - guitar, keyboards, and backing vocals
Stephen Elder - bass
Richard Christy - drums.
'Dogface' will be released by Black Lotus Records on April 19th, 2004. North American and Asian distribution are currently under negotiation and should follow closely behind as well as the release dates for those areas. - New drummer of IN AETERNUM is Per Karlsson of Nominon. Bands new website address is: www.inaeternum.com. Update your bookmarks!! More news about the band will follow soon and most of them will be interesting for all old schooled death bangers!! In the meanwhile you can check new interview with In Aeternum published in understrained!
- ARMAGEDDA have their new web address: www.armagedda.net. Soon should be out bands new album and before will be available gatefold LP with bands second demo + unreleased before rehearsal tape as well as once announced long sleeve...
- A MESSAGE FROM GREAT WHITE
As we approach the anniversary date of February 20, 2003, words will not now, nor will they ever, begin to express the sorrow we are all feeling. Although it has been a year, we are all only at the beginning of the healing process. We will always fondly remember our friends that we lost, as will as our band member and brother Ty Longley. To everyone that was affected, by this terrible tragedy, we send our love, prayers and encouragement.
Jack Russell & Great White
- MORGION RETURNS!
DARK SYMPHONIES is extremely excited to announce that MORGION have finally ended their 5 year absence from the progressive, extreme recording scene with the announcement of the official world wide release date for their highly anticipated new cd Cloaked By Ages, Crowned In Earth as Tuesday, April 27, 2004. Formed in 1990, the band released two critically acclaimed albums on the Relapse label with Among Majestic Ruin (1996) and Solinari (1999). A subsequent tour in support of Solinari confirmed for both fans and critics alike that Morgion was indeed a major force within the extreme musical scene with their dark emotion and melodic heaviness that brought to mind such giants as Candlemass, My Dying Bride, and Anathema. However, Morgion then went on hiatus for a period of several years, and many a rumor that their demise was inevitable...
2003 saw the end of all the turmoil and speculation surrounding the band, as Morgion emerged stronger than ever with a revamped lineup and a brand new demo of new musical compositions. But even more audacious was the self-supporting tour of Europe the band put together with Mourning Beloveth and The Prophecy aptly titled DOOMINATION OF EUROPE. Morgion was back! July saw the signing of the band with Dark Symphonies and they immediately entered Donner & Blitzen Studios to record their new album with long time producer Mathias Schneeberger (Solinari). After several months of hard work and patient waiting, Schneeberger and the band finally put the finishing touches on the master in January 2004.
The result? Eight magnificent tracks, clocking in at over an hour, that begins right where Solinari left off and ends with a new musical beginning for the band. From the brilliant production to the diverse vocal performance, Morgion's musical evolution is complete! Cloaked By Ages, Crowned In Earth is a crowning achievement of heavy, melodic music which ebbs and flows amongst beauty, darkness, and emotions. All the artwork and layout was created and executed by the band's own Gary Griffith. Retail distribution in the US will be handled by Telegraph/IDN with global distribution handled by our label partners around the world. Metal Maniacs - Excited about the U.S. release of DARK TRANQUILLITY's DVD, Live Damage,
singer Mikael Stanne has been juggling interview duties with diapers.
New to the Stanne household is baby girl Marillion, named after the
British prog metal band. According to Mikael, she is "The Precious."
The band has returned to the studio and is hammering out their follow-up to 2002's Damage Done. Additionally Century Media plans two double-disc Dark Tranquillity reissues including their earlier Osmose recordings plus bonus tracks and CD-Rom videos. Look for it this summer! Mark 2004 as the year of Dark Tranquillity! Metal Maniacs - DREAM EVIL, Sweden's quintessential hard rockin' power metal quintet are wrapping up their studio work on album number three titled The Book Of Heavy Metal. The band will finish recording by mid-February, and we should see this release hit U.S. shores in early summer 2004! It's time to raise your sword and shield to reconquer the throne! Metal Maniacs
- Sleepy Buildings A Semi Acoustic Evening THE GATHERING's first acoustic album will be unveiled in the U.S. on March 9, 2004. Painting a picture that portrays the band's entire history; this evocative album captures their live sensual energy. Sleepy Buildings contains new acoustic arrangements of songs from their earliest albums to their breakthrough Mandylion, up through modern album If_Then_Else. Metal Maniacs
- Currently recording their unnamed fourth full-length album in Finland,
the premier symphonic metal band, NIGHTWISH, has scheduled its first
U.S. tours, dates below. For those who missed NIGHTWISH's enchanting
performance headlining 2003's Atlanta Prog Power Fest this will give
them the opportunity to witness the band in its live majesty. Label
and country-mates LULLACRY will be opening the show, purchase your tickets
in advance, as they will sell-out. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com.
8/16 The Opera House - Toronto, ONT
8/17 Metropolis - Montreal, QUE
8/20 Palladium - Worcester, MA
8/22 B.B. King's Blues Club - New York, NY
8/23 Phantasy Theater - Lakewood, OH
8/25 House of Blues - Chicago, IL
8/26 Quest Club - Minneapolis, MN
8/30 Cajun House - Scottsdale, AZ
8/31 House of Blues - Anaheim, CA
9/02 House of Blues - Los Angeles, CA
9/5 Graceland - Seattle, WA - ORPHANED LAND Mabool April 6, 2004
Flooding the U.S. with its powerful new release, Mabool, ORPHANED LAND's long-awaited return is a furious assault to the metal. An enchanting concept album, Mabool, depicts the tale of three brothers given the task of holding back the wrath of an angry God. Like the mission itself the music is compelling and poignant, metal infused with Middle Eastern instrumentation and oriental harmonies. Metal Maniacs - Already receiving rave reviews from metal press, Sweden's TAD MOROSE release Modus Vivendi, their seventh full-length album, on March 6, 2004. Exploding in with conquering splendor Modus Vivendi encapsulates the listener in music laden with thundering drums, roaring guitar riffs and compelling vocals. Plans are already underway for the band to make its return to America; stay tuned for more information. Metal Maniacs
- SUFFOCATION BEGIN WORK ON NEW ALBUM
Death metal legends SUFFOCATION begun recording their new full-length album, entitled Souls to Deny.
The wildly influential band are recording at New York's Full Force Studios with engineer Joe Cincotta. The band's first full album of new material since 1995's Pierced From Within, Souls to Deny also marks the band's first full length album for Relapse Records. Advance song titles from Souls to Deny include "Souls to Deny", "Deceit", "Subconsciously Enslaved", "Surgery of Impalement", "Tomes of Atrimony", "Immortally Condemned", "Demise of the Clone" and "To Weep Once More".
Vocalist Frank Mullen comments, "Souls to Deny is one of our most brutal albums by far. I'm confident this album will not disappoint any of our fans -- new or old". Drummer Mike Smith adds, "This is the cleanest, heaviest SUFFOCATION album to date...those who doubted our intentions are soon dead. On all assumptions." SUFFOCATION is rounded out by guitarists Terrance Hobbs and Guy Marchais and bassist Derek Boyer.
www.Relapse.com
Metal Maniacs - IMMORTAL RITES from Schwäbisch-Gmünd /Germany play fascinating, groovy and unique end Death Metal ! Their debut Art of Devolution was produced by Alex Krull/ATROCITY at Mastersound Studios. Guestmusicians include Alex Krull & Martin Schmidt from ATROCITY, as well as Liv Kristine / ex-THEATRE OF TRAGEDY/LEAVES EYE. Release date will be March 15th 2004. The guys plan to appear on various summer festivals as the Summer Breeze or the Party-San. Metal Maniacs
- The Brutal US Death Metal scene will be enriched by yet another strong force on March 15th 2004. DARK DISCLIPLE, hailing from Baltimore, Maryland, have signed with Morbid Records and their first, grooving masterpiece Unholy Hate Gore does definitely hold up against acts like Dying Festus, Deeds Of Flesh or Brodequin. Metal Maniacs
- Chicago`s Deathmonster DISINTER are currently adding the finishing touches to their new album. The new title is As we burn, the album will contain ten Death Metal thunderstorms in usual US quality standard. Metal Maniacs
- Bavarian cultgrinders COCK AND BALL TORTURE have completed recordings for their third, still untitled offering. It takes up the thread of the predecessor and will surely develop into another milestone of the genre. Metal Maniacs
- East German Splatter-Death Metalheads PROFANATION are not 100% satisfied with the recording of their second mu-sick-al output Its Lunch Time Again so they will undertake major reconstruction. Unfortunately we can not confirm a definite release date yet. Metal Maniacs
- Our Illinois Porn Gore heroes LIVIDITY have found a new guy to handle the low end frequencies, CHRIS CHAMPBELL, and plan to record the successor to Til Only The Sick Remain release is planned for late 2004. Metal Maniacs
- Czech Death Metal institution HYPNOS have decided to produce their third inferno under the supervision of Harris Johns again. Release can be expected late 2004. The band will then tour with Altar, as matters stand right now. Metal Maniacs
- CHILDREN OF BODOM TOUR!
The dynamic Finnish melodic thrash quintet CHILDREN OF BODOM will embark on a national U.S. tour alongside metal titans Iced Earth this spring. The group just wrapped up a highly successful tour alongside Dimmu Borgir, Nevermore and Hypocrisy this past fall in support of Hate Crew Deathroll, their critically acclaimed new release. The anticipation surrounding their return to the U.S. is overwhelming, and this time around they will be playing an extended set. CHILDREN OF BODOM just shot a video for "Sixpounder." look for it to make its Fuse and MTV2 debut next month.
The group further describes their excitement over their upcoming tour: "We finished our first American tour in late December with a very satisfied feeling. We had really no expectations when we got on the road, and the response from audience, and especially from our fans, was great. That was much more than we expected. Now we have another chance to come over, and we are looking forward to headbanging and having fun with our fans again. Thanks to all the people who were supporting during those six weeks of touring. See you soon."
CHILDREN OF BODOM w/ Iced Earth
4/18 - Newport Music Hall - Columbus, OH
4/19 - Pop's - Sauget, IL
4/20 - Metro - Chicago, IL
4/23 - The Eagle's Club - Milwaukee, WI
4/24 - Harpo's Concert Theatre - Detroit, MI
4/25 - The Odeon - Cleveland, OH
4/26 - The Guvernment - Toronto, ONT
4/28 - The Medley - Montreal, QC
4/29 - BB King's - New York, NY
4/30 - Trocadero, Philadelphia, PA
5/01 - Palladium - Worcester, MA
5/02 - Jaxx - Springfield, VA
5/04 - Masquerade - Atlanta, GA
5/05 - House of Blues - Lake Buena Vista, FL
5/07 - House of Blues - New Orleans, LA
5/08 - Engine Room - Houston, TX
5/09 - The Back Room - Austin, TX
5/10 - Deep Ellum - Dallas, TX
5/12 - Ogden Theater - Denver, CO
5/14 - Commodore Ballroom - Vancouver, BC
5/15 - Graceland - Seattle, WA
5/17 - Avalon Ballroom - San Francisco, CA
5/19 - Cajun House - Scottsdale, AZ
5/21 - House of Blues - Los Angeles, CA
Metal Maniacs - Almost a year after the release of the celebrated "Dechristianize" album,VITAL REMAINS has announced that they will be hitting the road with the infamous Glen Benton (Deicide) handling vocal duties - bassist Istvan Lendvay (Rise, Behemoth) will join the foundation of guitarist Tony Lazaro and drummer Dave Suzuki to round out the war machine - support acts are The Black Dahlia Murder, Cattle Decapitation and Watch Them Die. Metal Update
- Drummer Pelle Liljenberg (Coercion) has replaced Christofer Barkensjö in GRAVE. Metal Update
- DAYLIGHT DIES's new voice is drinking partner Nathan Ellis (Wehrwolfe). Metal Update
- In the wake of the departure of Nathan Ellis from WEHRWOLFE, Devon has taken over the responsibilities of lead vocals in addition to his role as bassist and lyricist. Metal Update
- Guitarist Jon Aaron (Graveyard B.B.Q.) has been added to the lineup of M.O.D. Metal Update
- NORMA JEAN vocalist Brad Norris has parted with the band on good terms
- Cory Putman
(Eso-Charis) will be filling in for the time being, including the upcoming UK tour. Metal Update - After 7 years, 40 GRIT has called it quits - the group's official statement: "The music biz has taking a toll on all of us in the band and it makes us sick to our stomach". Metal Update
- WARMACHINE has amicably parted ways with drummer Andrew Zenti - the search for a replacement is underway. Metal Update
- Vocalist Kasper Thomsen has replaced Lars Vognstrup who recently left RAUNCHY due to musical differences. Metal Update
- In spite of recent surgery, ICED EARTH's Jon Schaffer continues to experience lower back problems - due to these complications and scheduled testing, the band has been forced to postpone the European leg of the tour and possibly even part of the US Tour. Metal Update
- GORGOROTH's live DVD shooting on February 1 in Krakow, Poland was marred by controversy - the stage set included four crucified and naked models spilled with sheep blood and more than 100 sheep heads surrounding the band - after the gig, the police appeared and confiscated all the recordings from Krzemionki TV on the basis that it was potentially offensive - it is unknown whether the footage will ever be released - meanwhile, the band's stage show may be considered a criminal offence and the band could face prison time. Metal Update
- BUTCHERY MUSIC sign with great bulgarian Symphonic Black Metal band PRIMITIVE ANGEL GOSPODEN. The band is ready with their first official album and BM will release this CD on this summer. The band have plan and for video clip. The album name is T.S.A. on this moment, but the material will include 6 songs (40 min.) extreme and very dark music.
- BLACKDEATH "Bottomless armageddon" CD
Out now the 3rd cd from Blackdeath. Not new material but a 1997 recording that was restored mastered in 2002. Maybe the rawest of all! Limited and numbered to 1000 copies, coming in a special red embossed printing. - END "End II" CD
Darkthrone, Carpathian Forest, Taake... End manages to combine these powefull black acts in this brilliant 2nd album with a unique sound and a very personal way. Darkness, melancholy and agony the feelings of the album. One of the best bands that come from Greece. - FOREST "Like a blaze above the ashes" CD
The second album from this cult Russian black metal act. A journey back to early black metal where there was a meaning. Raw, filled with lot feeling giving the atmospere black metal needs. Recorded back to 1997. - THE LEGION is a new band with Marduk drummer Emil in the member section. They just released their debut album on the French Listenable Label. The Legion is ready to take over Europe in a couple of months with Impaled Nazarene and also released a mini album recently. Pitfather
- JUDAS PRIEST SCHEDULED TO RELEASE CAREER-SPANNING BOX SET 'METALOGY'
ON MAY 4 ON SONY MUSIC/LEGACY RECORDS
FOUR-CD, 65-TRACK SET TOTALING MORE THAN 5 HOURS OF MUSIC INCLUDES HITS, RARITIES AND MORE ENCASED IN LEATHER-AND-STUDS DELUXE PACKAGING
LIMITED EDITION LIVE DVD ADDED BONUS IN INITIAL PRESSING
Judas Priest has reigned supreme for 30 years as the most influential and commercially successful pure heavy metal band, and the masters are being honored with the career-spanning, four-CD, 65-track box set 'Metalogy' scheduled for release on May 4, 2004, by Sony Music/Legacy Records. The worldwide reverence for Judas Priest has resulted in sales of 20 million albums and countless sold-out concerts.
'Metalogy,' the first-ever Judas Priest box set, was assembled with the full participation of the band and it covers music recorded worldwide for the Gull, Sony Music/Columbia, CMC International, SPV, Atlantic and JVC labels between 1974 and 2002. Remastered hits, fan favorites, live rarities, B-sides and a previously unreleased demo are included. And as a bonus, the initial pressing of 'Metalogy' will include a live DVD of a complete concert filmed on December 12, 1982, at Mid South in Memphis, TN, on the 'Screaming for Vengeance' tour. This show was released on home video as 'Judas Priest Live' but it has been out of print for many years, and fans have often requested that it be reissued. This new DVD is mastered in pristine 5.1 Surround Sound for the ultimate Priest live concert experience.
Fans will be thrilled with the packaging of 'Metalogy.' The 7"x7" box is appropriately wrapped in leather and metal studs. The 7"x7" full color book features a full discography, biographical essay, timeline and numerous previously unpublished photos.
The CD track listing is as follows:
CD 1
1. Never Satisfied (4:52)
2. Deceiver (2:44)
3. Tyrant (4:39)
4. Victim Of Changes (Live) (7:11)
5. Diamonds & Rust (Live)** (3:28)
6. Starbreaker (Live)** (7:19)
7. Sinner (6:40)
8. Let Us Prey (6:12)
9. Dissident Aggressor (3:02)
10. Exciter (5:33)
11. Beyond The Realms Of Death (6:51)
12. Better By You Better Than Me (5:19)
13. Invader (4:10)
14. Stained Class (5:12)
15. The Green Manalishi (With The Two Pronged Crown) (Live)* (4:42)
CD 2
1. Killing Machine (3:02)
2. Evening Star (4:06)
3. Take On The World (3:03)
4. Delivering The Goods (4:16)
5. Evil Fantasies (4:13)
6. Hell Bent For Leather (2:40)
7. Breaking The Law (Live)** (2:45)
8. Living After Midnight (3:30)
9. Rapid Fire (4:00)
10. Metal Gods (4:04)
11. Grinder (Live)* (4:21)
12. The Rage (4:44)
13. Heading Out To The Highway (3:45)
14. Hot Rockin' (Live)** (3:28)
15. Trouble Shooter (3:47)
16. Solar Angels (4:03)
17. Desert Plains (4:36)
18. Hellion (Live)** / Electric Eye (Live)** (4:17)
19. Screaming For Vengeance (4:43)
CD 3
1. Riding On The Wind (3:07)
2. Bloodstone (3:52)
3. You've Got Another Thing Comin' (5:09)
4. Devil's Child (4:48)
5. Freewheel Burning (4:42)
6. Jawbreaker (3:25)
7. The Sentinel (5:24)
8. Love Bites (Live)* (5:37)
9. Eat Me Alive (3:31)
10. Some Heads Are Gonna Roll (4:05)
11. Rock Hard Ride Free (5:00)
12. Night Comes Down (4:00)
13. Turbo Lover (5:32)
14. Private Property (4:29)
15. Parental Guidance (3:35)
16. Out In The Cold (6:27)
17. Heart Of A Lion (demo)* (3:53)
CD 4
1. Ram It Down (4:48)
2. Heavy Metal (5:58)
3. Come & Get It (4:05)
4. Blood Red Skies (7:05)
5. Painkiller (6:06)
6. Between The Hammer & The Anvil (4:48)
7. Touch Of Evil (5:54)
8. Metal Meltdown (4:47)
9. Nightcrawler (5:44)
10. All Guns Blazing (3:57)
11. Jugulator (5:50)
12. Bloodstains (5:26)
13. Machine Man (5:15)
14. Feed On Me (5:28)
*Previously Unreleased
**First Time On CD
The track listing for the bonus DVD is as follows:
1. Hellion/Electric Eye
2. Riding On The Wind
3. Heading Out To The Highway
4. Metal Gods
5. Bloodstone
6. Breaking The Law
7. The Sinner
8. Desert Plains
9. The Ripper
10. Diamonds And Rust
11. Devil's Child
12. Screaming For Vengeance
13. You've Got Another Thing Comin'
14. Victim Of Changes
15. Living After Midnight
16. The Green Manalishi (With The Two Pronged Crown)
17. Hell Bent For Leather
'Metalogy' compiles the phenomenal musical achievements of Judas Priest's first three decades, and the next phase of the band's career begins later this year with the release of a highly anticipated new studio album and world tour from recently reunited vocalist Rob Halford, lead guitarist Glenn Tipton, lead guitarist K.K. Downing, bass guitarist Ian Hill and drummer Scott Travis.
www.judaspriest.com
www.legacyrecordings.com
www.judaspriestonline.com - BRUCE DICKINSON ON EXECUTION, RENATO TRIBUZY'S NEW ALBUM
Bruce Dickinson (Iron Maiden), confirmed his participation on Tribuzy's new album, EXECUTION, during the tour of the new Maiden's album "Dance Of Death" in Rio de Janeiro. Bruce and Tribuzy met up for breakfast at Iron Maiden's hotel, where they enjoyed a long conversation about various projects and gigs. Bruce will record his parts next month in Los Angeles (EUA), with the producer and guitarist Roy Z, that is also performing on EXECUTION.
The album has already confirmed stars like Kiko Loureiro, Chris Dale, Michael Kiske and Rolland Grapow and is planned for release in mid-2004.
http://www.tribuzy.com - After two years from their previous and loved work "The Safe
Place" the band better known with the name of FACE THE FACT is
back with a brand new mcd titled "Romeo And Juliet Are Not Dead".
The long two years between the old and the new work has been spent on
tour all around the world playing big festival such: Hellfest 2002 (Syracuse,
NY - probably the most important hardcore fest); the Hellfire Fest 2002
and 2003 in Germany and the Winter Goodlife Fest 2001; and being on
tour with bands like Bane, Walls Of Jericho, Undying, Converge and more.
This new work will absolutely stuck you in front of your stereo since it's musically, lyrically and graphically great! Recorded at the Temple Of Noise Studios (a must for the roman metal and hardcore scene: Aborym, Stormlord, Purification and more) "Romeo And Juliet Are Not Dead" is a concept mcd consisting of four tracks (plus an old song re-recorded with the guest vocals from the brazilian heroes Point Of No Return). The music you will hear can't easily be labelled as metal hardcore or emotional but summarizing we could talk about a mix of Swedish metal (In Flames, At The Gates) and modern hardcore (Shai Hulud, Zao).
The European version of "Romeo And Juliet Are Not Dead" is out on the german Beniihana Records (CD) and on the italian Hurry Up Records (limited and coloured 12"), while the band is still contracting other versions around the world. Survival Records will release the South American version in April, more will come.
For more info: www.theterriblebeauty.com - NEW MASSEMORD cd titled "OBSCURA SYMPHONIA" available from
1 March 2004 on BLACKMETAL.COM Records
After the release of debut cult cd titled "skogen kaller", MASSEMORD is back with 40 minutes of true norwegian blackmetal! This album is going to be the top blackmetal cd of the last 5 years! The bergen based MASSEMORD won't let you miss bands like immortal or old satyricon and gorgoroth. Skilled musicians that play true black metal at higher levels!
!!!Beware because this time Norway is back for sure!!! - BODY COUNT, TESTAMENT, AND OBITUARY TO HEADLINE SUN N’ STEEL
- THE FIRST ANNUAL FLORIDA METALFEST
PINELLAS PARK, Fla. – Body Count (featuring Ice-T), Testament, and Florida’s own death metal legends Obituary will headline Sun n’ Steel, the First Annual Florida Metalfest, to be held Saturday and Sunday, March 6 and 7 at the Pinellas Expo Center in Pinellas Park, Fla.
Also scheduled to perform is a N.W.O.B.H.M. (New Wave of British Heavy Metal) All Star Band featuring Al Atkins (Judas Priest), Jess Cox (Tygers Pan Tang), and Dennis Stratton (Iron Maiden, Praying Mantis).
Other bands slated for the bill are Deicide, Jon Oliva of Savatage, Yeti, M.O.D., Raven, Premonition of War, Jag Panzer, Seven Witches, Divine Empire, Macabre, Rob Rock, Agent Steel, Iron Cross, Noctuary, The End, Unholy Ghost, Trivium, Entombed, Severed Existence, Dark Shift, October 31, Neomortem, Stone Vengeance, Black Widow, Spearhead, Laceration, Conquest, Meth Sessions, Premonition, Equinox, Ion Shift, Arcadia, Tenebrae, Parabellum, The Apostacy, Left in Ashes, Sixt6, Chronzon, Prong, Hate Eternal, Nasty Savage, Hell on Earth, Metal Militia, Demoncy, Dopamean, Exit39, Ruin, Black Dahlia Murder, Anal Blast, Burning Inside, 3 Inches of Blood, End Unseen, Orphan Soul, Cold Summer Society, Magus Beast, Force of Habit, Beyond Glory, HGH, and Burning Inside. Additional bands will be announced.
Like its counterparts, the long-standing Milwaukee Metalfest and New Jersey’s March Metal Meltdown, Sun n’ Steel will host a Vendorville Marketplace full of CDs, t-shirts, and other memorabilia, autograph signings with the performing artists, and a food court.
Sun n’ Steel is an all ages event with a beer garden open to those with proper I.D.
Tickets are $35 for a single-day pass and $55 for a two-day pass. Tickets may be purchased at Ticketmaster locations, charge by phone (727-898-2100), the Pinellas Expo Center box office or at the following locations: Atlantic Sounds (Daytona Beach), Sound Exchange (Pinellas Park, North Tampa, Brandon), Psychotic Ink Tattoos (Clearwater Beach, St. Petersburg), and Boomerz (Seminole).
Sun n’ Steel is presented by Jack Koshick and Rob Grohl.
Directions, hotel, and car rental information is available at www.metalfest.com.
All talent subject to change. - TUSKA OPEN AIR METAL FESTIVAL 2004 HAS CONFIRMED ITS FIRST ARTISTS
The seventh annual Tuska Open Air Metal Festival has now confirmed its first artists for the 2004 festival.
The headliner for Saturday, the 17th of July, will be Nightwish, who will release their much-anticipated new album, "Once" in June. Nightwish will be mainly touring Europe and the United States next summer and their Tuska-performance is going to be one of their three finnish shows.
Another headliner at Tuska during 16.-18.7.2004 will be the legendary King Diamond. This pioneer of black metal has been touring the world for almost three decades, sold millions of records and inspired four
generations of metalheads. Also appearing at Kaisaniemi Park are swedish melodic-deathmetal groups Soilwork and Dark Tranquility and german thrashers Dew-Scented.
Besides Nightwish, Tuska-festival will once again present the hottest finnish metal acts. During the weekend, performances by Impaled Nazarene, Sonata Arctica, Sinergy, Suburban Tribe, Mokoma, Kotiteollisuus and Timo Rautiainen & Trio Niskalaukaus will be taking place. The new generation
of finnish metal will be represented by the highly acclaimed Swallow the Sun, Diablo, Machine Men, Kilpi and Twilightning.
Over the course of three days more than 30 bands will be appearing on three different stages.
In addition to the festival itself, the evening-clubs will entertain the festival crowd from Thursday through Sunday on four different locations. More than 30 up-and-coming acts will be performing in the evening-clubs, styles ranging from deathmetal to goth, industrial and cover-material.
Tickets for Tuska 2004 will go on sale in May through Tiketti (www.tiketti.fi), Lippupalvelu (www.lippupalvelu.fi) and the new addition of Menolippu (www.menolippu.fi). Tickets will also be available at selected record stores. Tuska 2004 is an all-ages festival.
Additional information:
www.tuska-festival.fi - Metal Mind Records / Productions from Poland has released an illegal
bootleg dvd/vhs live show from MALEVOLENT CREATION recorded in early
2003 at the Metal Mania Festivals in Krakow Poland.In early 2003 when
we started our 44 show European Tour with Marduk our first show was
in Krakow Poland at the Metal Mania Festivals and it seemed to be a
great way to start off a tour playing to 6,000 Polish Metal Maniacs.As
with most festivals thing's are rushed and nothing goes smoothly and
we were informed that day that the entire festival was being filmed.No
big deal for us because we allow fans and media to film and photograph
the band always.While we prepared to take the stage we were also informed
we did not have time for any kind of equipment changeover,soundcheck,monitor
check or even use our own soundman for this performance.Also the drumset
we were to use came equiped with 2 bass drum triggers of which one did
not work.With no time to fix thing's we went on stage and played and
had a great show anyways.2 months later we started to recieve e-mails
and phone calls from Metal Mind regarding the possibility of releasing
this recording.They sent us a copy to check out and we laughed our asses
off when we seen it.The worst camera work we have ever seen and topped
off with an entire show played and recorded with one kickdrum working.Considering
that 90 % of Malevolent Creation music is double bass drum work you
can only imagine how retarded and ridiculous this sounded.Of course
we contacted Metal Mind and told them that in no way should this released
at all.All seemed fine until we recieved an e-mail from Metal Mind boss
Tommy Dziubinski saying that he thought the show was great and was still
intending on releasing this garbage.After months of having our lawyer
and our current record label Nuclear Blast Records' lawyer contacting
Mr.Dziubinski about this illegal act he was considering, he stopped
any contact with us and our lawyers and has since just released this
dvd/vhs illegaly on Metal Mind Productions.Our lawyer was able to stop
the distribution of this bootleg in most of western europe,america and
canada but it is still being sold and distributed illegally.We just
would like to advise distributors and fans of Malevolent Creation to
not buy this crap and wait till we release our first OFFICIAL dvd later
this summer through Arctic Music Group.The dvd will feature footage
spanning the band's entire career including the band's first live show
ever in 1987 opening for Canadien punk legends S.N.F.U. to the recording
of the band's newest and 9th full length album "Warkult" studio
sessions.This will be our first dvd release and we want to make it special
for everyone and will have enough live footage and rarities recorded
all over the world to make 3 dvd's.The Underground Metal Community was
and is about unity and band's,promoters,agent's etc...helping each other.This
is not the case with Tommy Dziubinski and Metal Mind Productions and
people like him need to be removed from the scene.I would just like
to say to any band's who cross path's with Tommy and Metal Mind to think
twice and not get screwed like we are.
In other Malevolent Creation news,we start recording our new album "WARKULT" tomarrow Feb.13th and it will be released in late June on Nuclear Blast Records worldwide. - MELIAH RAGE Films Music Video for Title Track of 'BARELY HUMAN'
On Set of Horror Film 'GOD OF VAMPIRES'
Heavy metal and horror films are a perfect match, and Meliah Rage has proved it by filming a new music video on the set of a vampire movie.
The Boston-based Meliah Rage -- vocalist Paul Souza, guitarist Anthony Nichols, guitarist Jim Koury, bass guitarist Jesse Johnson and drummer Barry Spillberg -- filmed a video for the title track of the Screaming Ferret Wreckords album 'Barely Human' on the set of the Conquest Pictures film 'God of Vampires' in Haverhill, MA. Vampires are, of course, "barely human."
'God of Vampires' director Rob Fitz also directed the "Barely Human" video.
The imagery and atmosphere of both the video and the film are identical, and the same main set was used for both. The undead bloodsuckers from the movie appear in the video, and actual scenes from the movie appear in the video. "Barely Human" will be included on the 'God of Vampires' soundtrack.
"The set was impressive! Very dark and evil. In the past the videos we did were done in movie studios. This was like walking into a real haunted house! Very cool!" says Nichols. "Working with Rob was great. He had everything mapped out. He knew exactly what he wanted and what he wanted us to do. We were very comfortable with everything he did and had planned. No need to question anything."
The plot of 'God of Vampires' has a clever twist in that it's about Chinese vampires and the Asian mob. And it's an action film too. A vampire-oriented horror picture injected with Hong Kong-style action is guaranteed to generate chills and excitement.
Fitz has spent 3 1/2 years working on 'God of Vampires.' Within the film industry he is known primarily as a makeup artist, and he's worked on 'Meet Joe Black,' 'The Perfect Storm' and 'Mona Lisa Smile.' Appropriately enough for a filmmaker making his feature-length directorial debut with a vampire movie, Fitz "cut his teeth" on shorts shown at Tromadance and the Brussels Festival of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Thriller Films.
The "Barely Human" video is slated for rotation on MTV2. Production on 'God of Vampires' is scheduled for completion this spring, and its release date has not yet been determined.
www.meliahrage.com
www.screamingferret.com
www.godofvampires.com - QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE bassist Nick Oliveri and vocalist Mark Lanegan have left the band - Oliveri and frontman Josh Homme have been friends since before playing together in Kyuss, but, according to a recent press statement, "a number of incidents occurring over the last 18 months have led to the decision that the two can no longer maintain a working partnership in the band". Metal Update
- Vocalist Mortuus has been named as the replacement for Legion in MARDUK. Metal Update
- YNGWIE MALMSTEEN: bassist Rudy Sarzo (Ozzy, Quiet Riot, Whitesnake) has joined the Rising Force touring lineup alongside Doogie White (v), Patrick Johansson (d) & Joakim Svalberg (k). Metal Update
- Vocalist Larry Gamber has replaced Mike Harrison (Misery Index) who left PSYCHOTOGEN to pursue a solo project - the band expects to record an EP this spring. Metal Update
- CONFESSOR, the adventurous doom band is back together with all of the original members except guitarist Ivan Colon who passed away a couple of years ago - Shawn McCoy has stepped in for Ivan - new material is said to be very Sabbathy with the signature twisted parts thrown in - vocals are not real high as they were, but more in an Alice In Chains range. Metal Update
- CORONATION, the German band has called it quits after being unable to find replacement guitar players - drummer Adriano (Night In Gales) and shouter Tom joined Grind Inc., also featuring members from Hate Factor. Metal Update
- BLOODJINN drummer Justin Collins has decided to leave the band as his "body and mind cannot handle touring anymore" - auditions to fill the position are underway. Metal Update
- ION VEIN's long time guitarist John Malufka has left the band in order to shift his focus to his personal life. Metal Update
- NEIL TURBIN, the former Anthrax vocalist, has announced his supporting lineup: Izzy Diaz (d), Steve Ornest (g), Dario Seixas (b) and Vernon Anderson (g) - the band is rehearsing for a string of planned West Coast dates. Metal Update
- NOTHINGFACE after 10 years and 4 albums, the band has called it quits. Metal Update
- Dave Mustaine is currently in the studio finishing up recordings for a new album culled from material written by Dave over the last dozen years - Vinnie Colaiuta played guitar and Jimmy Sloas played bass - the album is expected to be mixed around the middle of March / beginning of April for a late spring release. Metal Update
- METALLICA picked up a Grammy in the Best Metal Performance category for "St. Anger". Metal Update
- DISMEMBER NEWS
Philadelphia: Candlelight Records confirms April 20 as the US release date for the new album from Sweden's DISMEMBER. Titled Where Ironcroses Grow, it is the eighth full-length album from the long-running and respected death metal band.
Recorded at Sami Studios in Stockholm, Where Ironcrosses Grow ends near four years of silence for the band. Featuring founding members drummer Fred Estby and guitarist David Blomquist with vocalist Matti Karki, guitarist Martin Persson, and bassist Richard Cabeza, the album was produced by Estby (whom has additional producing/engineering credits for Konkhra, early At the Gates, Grand Magnus, Gehennah, Katatonia, Entombed, Hellacopters).
Formed in 1988, Dismember's roots are firmly planted in the original death metal archives. The band are revered worldwide for their no-holds-barred, pure Scandinavian death march - a sound that has long become the staple of quality for the genre. The band's collective worldwide sales surpass 500,000 units and their touring endeavors have placed them in front of audiences around the globe. They have to date shared the stage with Napalm Death, Obituary, Meshuggah, Hypocrisy, Amorphis, Morbid Angel, Death, Cannibal Corpse, as well as placing high at numerous festivals for over ten years. Their last trip to the US, headlining in support of their 2000 release, was a huge success and helped overall US sales for their last and final album for Nuclear Blast, Hate Campaign.
Track listing for Where Ironcrosses Grow is confirmed as: Where Ironcrosses Grow, Forged With Hate, Me-God, Tragedy of the Faithful, Chasing the Serpent, Where Angels Fear to Tread, Sword of Light, As the Coins Upon Your Eyes, Children of the Cross, As I Pull the Trigger.
Candlelight Records, with offices in Philadelphia and headquartered in London, is distributed exclusively in the US by Caroline Distribution; in Canada by PHD Canada; throughout the rest of the world by Plastichead Music Distribution.
www.dismember.net
Metal Maniacs - MARYLAND DEATHFEST - May 29 - 30, 2004
Repulsion, Exhumed, Leng Tch'e, Inhume and Bodies in the Gears of the Apparatus have also been confirmed for the 2004 fest.
Updated list of confirmed bands:
Repulsion (Michigan)
Macabre (Illinois)
Dead Infection (Poland)
Rotten Sound (Finland)
Exhumed (California)
Squash Bowels (Poland)
Last Days of Humanity (Netherlands)
Inhume (Netherlands)
Pig Destroyer (Virginia)
Vomit Remnants (Japan)
The Red Chord (Massachusetts)
Leng Tch'e (Belgium)
Internal Suffering (Colombia)
Profanity (Germany)
Malignancy (New York)
Mortal Decay (New Jersey)
Ion Dissonance (Canada)
Neuraxis (Canada)
Circle of Dead Children (Pennsylvania)
Man Must Die (Scotland)
Brodequin (Tennessee)
Fleshtized (Alabama)
Swarm of the Lotus (Maryland)
Bodies in the Gears of the Apparatus (New Jersey)
Biolich (New York)
May 29 and May 30, 2004
Baltimore, MD (Maryland USA)
www.supremebrutality.com
www.marylanddeathfest.com
Metal Maniacs - BEYOND THE EMBRACE Update from Oscar: - "Recording this album was very different from recording our first album. The whole process was something totally new in that with Against the Elements we had been playing the songs for years so when we went into the studio we didn't really need a producer to help us figure out where the songs needed to go. With this one we sat down with Ken (guitarist from Unearth) and played all of the songs live. Ken took notes on each song and was able to give us suggestions as an outside listener. The pre-production process was all new to us as well and Ken really helped us trim down our songs, find the best tones and nail the breakdowns. All in all we are really happy with the finished result. Ken said he would get us the guitar sounds that we wanted and he really came through." www.beyondtheembrace.com Metal Maniacs
- Arizona's VEHEMENCE have finished recordings for their second Metal
Blade Records release Helping The World To See. The album was produced
by Will Solares and Vehemence and engineered and mixed by Will Solares
- Recorded at Open Primary Productions/DBD Studios, Maricopa, Arizona
Right before the recordings the band parted ways with keyboardist Jason
Keesecker. There are no plans for a replacement, although a session
pianist was used for the recordings.
Track listing:
1. By Your Bedside
2. Kill For God
3. Trinity Broadcasting (Know Your Enemy)
4. To The Taste
5. You Don't Have To Be Afraid Anymore
6. Alone In Your Presence
7. Spirit Of The Soldier
8. Darkness Is Comfort
9. What Could Go Wrong?
10. We Are All Dying
11. Her Beautiful Eyes
Wes Benscoter will deliver artwork
http://vehemence.brutaldeath.net Metal Maniacs - KING DIAMOND - Andy LaRocque is preparing to mix the upcoming King Diamond live album end of March! Andy did not reveal any details about the album other than it will be a 2 disc set and will contain most of the songs from The Puppet Master US tour. More news as we have it!! www.covenworldide.org Metal Maniacs
- New VOMITORY album Primal Massacre ready to wreak havoc on the world!
- After a couple of listens we dare to say this is the most brutal and
extreme album VOMITORY have delivered so far. The speed on this album
is up to the limit - these guys take no prisoners with their brand of
brutality! All hail to Sweden!!!
"It's a killer album! As always nothing for the weak hearted," says guitar player Ulf Dalegren.
Here's the track listing:
1. Primal Massacre
2. Gore Apocalypse
3. Stray Bullet Kill
4. Epidemic (Created To Kill)
5. Demons Divine
6. Autopsy Extravaganza
7. Retaliation
8. Condemned by pride
9. Cursed Revelations
10. Chainsaw Surgery
VOMITORY will play at the infamous NO MERCY FESTIVALS 2004 with label mates Cannibal Corpse:
3/30 Osnabruck, Germany - Hyde Park
3/31 Essen, Germany - Zeche Carl
4/01 Berlin, Germany - Halford
4/02 Praha, Czech Republic - Abaton Club
4/03 wien, Austria - Planet Music
4/04 Wels, Austria - Schlachthof
4/05 Pratteln, Switzerland - Z7
4/06 Milan, Italy - Alcatraz
4/07 Ludwigsburg, Germany - Rockfabrick
4/08 Strasbourg, France - La Laiterie
4/09 Erfurt, Germany - Arena
4/10 Antwerpen, Belgium - Hof Ter Loo
4/11 Paris, France - La Locomotive
4/12 Tilburg, The Netherlands - 013
www.vomitory.net Metal Maniacs - Cult extreme metal band ANCIENT have completed the recording sessions to their upcoming album, the bands sixth, and are currently in Gothenburg (Sweden) mixing the record at the notorious Studio Fredman (Dimmu Borgir, In Flames...) with Fredrik Nordstrom. The release date has been set to the 1st of June; the album title is to be announced. A video to the title track 'NIGHT VISIT' will be shot later this month. www.ancientband.com Metal Maniacs
- BW&BK 6-Pack Weekend II: BRAINSTORM added to growing German Invasion!
Discounted Tickets & hotel still in effect! - What are you waiting for? Ticket sales are months ahead of last years pace. In just the first two weeks, people from 20 states purchased tickets, which will revert to full price on February 16th! The BW&BK 6-Pack Weekend features 14 international acts, signings, giveaways & acoustic performances.
In what will mark their FIRST North American appearance, BRAINSTORM joins already confirmed countrymen, Primal Fear, Grave Digger and Doro at the second BW&BK 6-Pack Weekend, June 3-5, 2004, in Cleveland, Ohio. Gonna be sort of like Octoberfest, in June!
Alongside Brainstorm, the others confirmed acts are:
KATATONIA - ONLY American appearance, first in 4 years!
PRIMAL FEAR ONLY North American appearance!
GRAVE DIGGER after 23 years, finally in America!
DORO ONLY North American appearance!
SEVEN WITCHES FIRST show for NEW, forthcoming disc!
E-FORCE (ex-VoiVod) ONLY North American appearance!
SHOK PARIS Reunited Clevelanders only show before BYH!
SHADOWKEEP FIRST North American appearance!
ION VEIN supporting the acclaimed "Reigning Memories"!
LILITU hear 2nd album material before it's released!
On Saturday afternoon, there will be acoustic performances, including Ben Jackson (guitar) and Midnight (vocals) of the legendary CRIMSON GLORY, who will perform an acoustic set of their best-known classics. James Rivera & Jack Frost, from SEVEN WITCHES, will play an array of material, including songs by Helstar, Frost's solo effort and a few surprises. Still more bands to be announced, including headliner.
http://truemetal.org/brainstorm
www.bwbk.com Metal Maniacs - Hellride Music and Blood of Tyrants Records will present "Templars
Of Doom -- The First Crusade" an all DOOM festival. It will take
place in Indianapolis Indiana on Saturday, June 19th, 2004.
The following bands will perform:
Internal Void
Morgion
Place Of Skulls
While Heaven Wept
Warhorse
Novembers Doom
Pale Divine
Iron Kind
Orodruin
The Gates Of Slumber
Abdullah
Life Beyond
Lair Of The Minotaur
Salt Of The Earth
Servile
This Festival will take place at Rehearsal Studios (3510 S. Keystone Ave. Indianapolis Indiana) and will only be $20.
www.templarsofdoom.com for any information you want and access to the official message board. Metal Maniacs - BOOMERZ TO HOST SUN N’ STEEL PRE-PARTY ON MARCH 5
SEMINOLE, Fla. – Boomerz in Seminole, Fla., will host a pre-party for Sun n’ Steel, the First Annual Florida Metalfest, on Friday, March 5.
Bands schedule to appear are Exit 39 (Louisiana), Severed Existence (Daytona Beach, Fla.), Metal Militia (Florida), Black Widow (Baltimore), Conquest (Missouri), Stone Vengeance (San Francisco), Arcadia (Italy), and Spearhead (Austria). Other special guests and surprises are planned for the show.
“These bands are some of the best up and coming bands on the Sun n’ Steel bill,” said show organizer and Sun n’ Steel co-promoter Rob Grohl. “The pre-party will give fans a chance to check them out before the fest, as well as just hang out and have a good time.”
This show is all ages, 21 to drink. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the first band is on at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the door with a Sun n’ Steel ticket or $10 without a festival ticket. Boomerz is located at 6990 Seminole Blvd. in Seminole.
Tickets will be available at Boomerz for the Sun n’ Steel festival. The two-day event will take place that Saturday and Sunday, March 6 and 7 at the Pinellas Expo Center in Pinellas Park, Fla. Sun n’ Steel will be headlined by Body Count (featuring Ice-T), Testament, Obituary, and a N.W.O.B.H.M. (New Wave of British Heavy Metal) All Star Band featuring Al Atkins (Judas Priest), Jess Cox (Tygers Pan Tang), and Dennis Stratton (Iron Maiden, Praying Mantis). Other bands slated to appear include Deicide, Jon Oliva of Savatage, Yeti, M.O.D., Raven, Premonition of War, Jag Panzer, Seven Witches, Divine Empire, Macabre, Rob Rock, Agent Steel, Iron Cross, Noctuary, The End, Unholy Ghost, Trivium, Entombed, Severed Existence, Dark Shift, October 31, Neomortem, Stone Vengeance, Black Widow, Spearhead, Laceration, Conquest, Meth Sessions, Premonition, Equinox, Ion Shift, Arcadia, Tenebrae, Parabellum, The Apostacy, Left in Ashes, Sixt6, Chronzon, Prong, Hate Eternal, Nasty Savage, Hell on Earth, Metal Militia, Demoncy, Dopamean, Exit39, Ruin, Black Dahlia Murder, Anal Blast, Burning Inside, 3 Inches of Blood, End Unseen, Orphan Soul, Cold Summer Society, Magus Beast, Force of Habit, Beyond Glory, HGH, and Burning Inside, plus more to be announced. Tickets for Sun N’ Steel are $35 for a single-day pass and $55 for a two-day pass. - The new full length album from HOMOIRATUS is entitled " Apocalypse
". Recorded, mixed and Mastered at " Rocksound " studio
in Thessaloniki Greece.Once more the speaker ripping tradition is maintained
continued and enhanced!, delivering 12 grinding moshcore monoliths of
MEGATON power!
Tracklist :
1 ) Another Daybreak Gone
2 ) The Age Of Numbers
3 ) So Many Nulls
4 ) Disintegrating Rotor's Authority
5 ) Soulconscienceworkshop
6 ) One Last Breath
7 ) Sci - Vi
8 ) Constructing Stature
9 ) e-land Phobia
10 ) Binary Clone Epoch
11 ) On Fertile Ground
12 ) Equipollence
Check out http://www.homoiratus.com - "Scars Over Europe 2004"
NATRON (Ita) & MASTIC SCUM (Aut) - presented by "Kick Promotion Agency"
"Mastic Scum" will hit the road again in spring 2004. This time with the Italian deatmetal
heroes "Natron". The tour will take place in France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany,
Austria and Italy (28.04. - 09.05.2004). The tour is presented by "Kick Promotion Agency".
TOUR DATES:
28.04.2004 Milano - Indians Saloon (Italy)
29.04.2004 Bordeaux - Ubu Bar (France)
30.04.2004 La Ferriere - Mat'Sa Cafe (France)
01.05.2004 Cambrai - L`Eclipse (France)
02.05.2004 t.b.a. (Belgium)
03.05.2004 Mechelen - Paniqe d`O (Belgium)
04.05.2004 Dinslaken - Kulturkantine (Germany)
05.05.2004 t.b.a. (Germany)
06.05.2004 Berlin - K17 (Germany)
07.05.2004 Dornbirn - Schlachthaus (Austria)
08.05.2004 Brescia - The Spew (Italy)
09.05.2004 Rome - t.b.a. (Italy) - “WARRANT” ANNOUNCES NEW BAND LINE-UP FOR 2004
WARRANT WELCOMES BACK THE RETURN OF ORIGINAL LEAD GUITARIST JOEY ALLEN
HOLLYWOOD (February 16, 2004) – WARRANT, spanning nearly two decades of rock, is proud to announce their 2004 line-up. Having parted ways, with long-time front-man Jani Lane, the band has re-grouped and is keyed up about bringing the new WARRANT to life.
The new WARRANT line-up consists of original members Erik Turner (guitar), Jerry Dixon (bass) and original member Joey Allen (lead guitar). “It’s been a blast to play the music again,” explains Joey Allen. “I haven’t played these songs for eight or more years. I am totally comfortable being side-by-side with Jerry and Erik again. It feels like home.” Allen joined WARRANT in March 1987. His addition to the band became the first official WARRANT lineup. Playing Gazarri's, that same month, WARRANT broke the attendance-record previously held by Van Halen.
Also joining the new addition is Jaime St. James (vocals) and Mike Fasano (drums). Jaime St. James is best known as the front-man for the band “Black & Blue”. “I’ve known the guys in WARRANT for many years when they were still playing The Sunset Strip,” states St. James. We have the same tastes in music and love to rock. I am thrilled to play with my long-time friends.” Mike Fasano played in WARRANT from 2001-2003 and returns for 2004. “As soon as I heard that ‘The Squealer’ was back (A.K.A. Joey Allen), I was in,” says Fasano.
“The positive energy that Jaime brings to the band is contagious,” states Erik Turner. Having Mike Fasano, The Dean Martin of Rock, back behind the kit makes us come full circle. Jerry and I very excited about the future and the making of a new WARRANT record. We hope to have it out in fall of 2004.”
I was surprised that the transition from Jani to Jamie had gone so smoothly. It feels like this new combination is meant to be,” explains Jerry Dixon. “I think people are going to be blown away when they hear us. Having Joey back also brings that original WARRANT sound back to the band.”
With a new line-up, a fresh sound and band members in place, WARRANT is getting ready to head out on the road starting this March. “Playing in this band is fun again. Hearing Joey playing guitar on all the Classics is awesome,” exclaims Erik Turner. “Rainmaker, Sure Feels Good & Ridin' High are kicking my butt at rehearsals and I can't wait to play them live for our fans.”
Metal Maniacs
- BYFIST drummer Jess Vara was injured in a headon collision last sunday night. Vara was traveling as a passenger in a late model pickup when it went out of control and slammed headon into the side of an embankment. Vara suffered substantial injuries and will be out of the Byfist lineup for a minimum of 3 months. Davey Lee was contacted for comment and had this to say. "We are thankful that Jess is still alive as it could have easily gone the other way, I talked with him yesterday and even though he has to recooperate from his injuries he was overall in good spirits." In an official statement from the band Ron Traveiso from the band Igniter will fill in for the rest of the tour dates or until Jess is able to come back. For more information go to www.byfist.com and www.davey-lee.com
- German Death Metal band KADATH is back with a vengeance-Resurrected in agony! After several unactive months due to lack of guitarist and drummer, we´re back in the old line-up consisting of Erling (d), Holger (v), Marc (b) and Mockel (g)! Our new and improved homepage is finally online, so for any info, please check out: www.kadath.ac
- Displeased Records will release INFINITED HATE's debut album "Revel
in bloodshed" this spring.
Infinited Hate was created in August 2003 by Aad Kloosterwaard, drummer of Sinister and Houwitser. The easiest thing to complete the line-up was asking all other Sinister members for this sick and twisted death metal project. All members were already thinking for a longer time to mix old school death metal with new style US death metal, something that they cannot do with their own band. The band started writing songs and selected two for their promo CD "Primitive butchery". This piece of death metal was recorded in the AM studios (Gouda) in Holland. The band was really happy with the good reactions on this CD, which resulted in a deal with Displeased Records for two CDs. Displeased Records was able to contract Graal (Behemoth, Rotting Christ, Enslaved, Vader) for the artwork of the upcoming CD "Revel in bloodshed". For this full length Infinited Hate will go back to the AM studios to work again with Andre van de Ree. You can expect ten songs of sick and twisted death metal, check it out if you think you are heavy enough!
Line-up:
Rachel Kloosterwaard
Ron van de Polder
Aad Kloosterwaard
Web: www.infinitedhate.tk
