Old News - May 2007 - Old News - More May 2007 News
May 8th, 2007
  • Paradise Lost to Embark on U.S. Tour in Fall with Nightwish

    In support of their forthcoming album release "In Requiem" on Century Media, the godfathers of Gothic Metal Paradise Lost announce a special guest slot supporting Nightwish on their autumn tour. The tour will only be the band's third visit to the US after previously supporting Morbid Angel and Opeth.

    Paradise Lost's 11th album "In Requiem," scheduled for a June 5 release in the U.S., was produced by Rhys Fulber (Fear Factory, Front Line Assembly) and mixed by Mike Frazer (Slipknot) and marks a return to their heavy trademark sound. The melancholic atmosphere is as oppressive as ever, but this go round the gloom is fused with an equal amount of dense, punishing riffs. Never ones to rest on their laurels, the U.K. goth originators bring something new to the table with each successive album and "In Requiem" is no exception.

    With a career spanning over 17 years, Paradise Lost has built a loyal European fan base, but has not had much opportunity to treat their North American audience to a tour befitting of their allegiance until now. Hitting destinations both east and west, the group looks forward to bringing the gloom with fellow European chart-toppers Nightwish.

    Commented Nick Holmes (vocals): "We can't wait to get to the US on a great tour and try and make an impact after years of focusing on Europe."

    15.10.2007 Jaxx Springfield, VA USA
    16.10.2007 Trocadero Theatre Philadelphia, PA, USA
    18.10.2007 Nokia Theatre New York, NY USA
    20.10.2007 Palladium Worcester, MA USA
    21.10.2007 Metropolis Montreal, QC Canada
    23.10.2007 The Docks Toronto, ON Canada
    24.10.2007 Peabody's Cleveland, OH USA
    26.10.2007 Harpos Concert Theatre Detroit, MI, USA
    27.10.2007 House Of Blues Chicago, IL USA
    28.10.2007 First Avenue Minneapolis, MN USA
    31.10.2007 Showbox Seattle, WA USA
    01.11.2007 Roseland Theater Portland, OR USA
    02.11.2007 Slims San Francisco, CA USA
    04.11.2007 House Of Blues Los Angeles, CA, USA
    06.11.2007 House Of Blues Anaheim, CA USA
    07.11.2007 Marquee Theater Phoenix, AZ USA
    08.11.2007 Sunshine Theater Albuquerque, NM, USA
    10.11.2007 White Rabbit San Antonio, TX USA
    11.11.2007 The Palladium Ballroom Dallas, TX, USA
    12.11.2007 Meridian Houston, TX USA
    14.11.2007 Culture Room Ft Lauderdale, FL USA
    15.11.2007 House Of Blues Orlando, FL USA
    17.11.2007 Masquerade Atlanta, GA USA

    Official Website - http://paradiselost.co.uk/
    MySpace Page - http://www.myspace.com/paradiselostuk
  • CLUTCH UNLEASHES NEW ALBUM, ‘FROM BEALE STREET TO OBLIVION,’
    MARCH 27TH LAUNCHES WORLD TOUR, BONNAROO APPEARANCE TO FOLLOW

    Clutch has been kings of the metal underground for years by this point – on the strength of such past classic as ‘The Elephant Riders’ and ‘Pure Rock Fury.’ But with their latest release, ‘From Beale Street to Oblivion,’ the quintet – which includes oft-bearded singer Neil Fallon, guitarist Tim Sult, bassist Dan Maines, drummer Jean-Paul Gaster, and organist Mick Schauer – Clutch is threatening to infiltrate the mainstream full-on. And it’s not that the group has softened their sound at all, it’s just that it’s arguably the band’s strongest album from front-to-back.

    Produced by Joe Barresi (who has worked with Kyuss, Tool, Melvins, Queens Of The Stone Age, etc.), the twelve track album touches upon a myriad of hard rock styles – stoner rock, southern rock, blues metal, and plenty of tasty jams. “This is probably the most ‘live’ album we have recorded,” enthuses Fallon about ‘Beale Street.’ “We went out for a few weeks, and played the music on the road. So, when we went into the studio, all of us knew exactly what was going to happen - a first for Clutch. I don’t know why we haven’t done it this way all along; it’s so much easier.

    We also recorded the basic tracks directly onto tape. Nothing digital in there at all. We haven’t done that since ‘The Elephant Riders’. And this record has a few more bluesy elements than has been the case in the past, but nothing so blatant that it could be called alien to what we do.” One of rock’s most hard-working live bands, Clutch will be supporting the March 27th release of the album (which is their third for the DRT label) with a world tour – including U.S., European, and Australian dates, as well as an appearance at the mammoth Bonnaroo Festival on June 14th. “Musically, we’ve become much more of a rock ’n’ roll band now, as opposed to being a metal or hardcore one,” says Fallon. “Our style is riff oriented, with a swing. It’s never been a calculated move; we just followed our instinct, and that is leading us closer to those bands to whom we listened in our childhood. Bands which are now termed as ‘classic rock’.” With ‘From Beale Street to Oblivion,’ it won’t be long until Fallon and company are mentioned in the same breath as their classic rock heroes.

    CLUTCH "FROM BEALS STREET TO OBLIVION" confirmed tracklisting:
    1. You Can't Stop Progress 2:40
    2. Power Player 3:05
    3. The Devil & Me 3:55
    4. White's Ferry 5:23
    5. Child of the City 3:51
    6. Electric Worry 5:15
    7. One Eye Dollar 1:24
    8. Rapture of Riddley Walker 4:08
    9. When Vegans Attack 4:54
    10. Opossum Minister 4:27
    11. Black Umbrella 4:05
    12. Mr. Shiny Cadillackness 5:11

    LIVE DATES INCLUDE:

    Fri 05/11/07 Washington, DC 9:30 Club
    Sat 05/12/07 Philadelphia, PA Trocadero
    Sun 05/13/07 Cleveland, OH House of Blues
    Tues 05/15/07 Cincinnati, OH Bogarts
    Thurs 05/17/07 Minneapolis, MN First Avenue
    Fri 05/18/07 Lawrence, KS Granada
    Sat 05/19/07 Englewood, CO Gothic Theatre
    Mon 05/21/07 Salt Lake City, UT The Depot
    Wed 05/23/07 San Francisco, CA Slim's
    Thurs 05/24/07 Los Angeles, CA Roxy Theatre
    Fri 05/25/07 Los Angeles, CA Roxy Theatre
    Sat 05/26/07 San Diego, CA Brick by Brick
    Thurs 05/31/07 Brisbane, AUS The Zoo
    Fri 06/01/07 Sydney, AUS The Metro
    Sat 06/02/07 Melbourne, AUS Hi Fi
    Thurs 06/14/07 Manchester, TN Bonnaroo Festival

    For more information, visit Clutch’s official website:
    www.pro-rock.com
  • OZZFEST 2007: Complete Itinerary Revealed

    The complete itinerary has been announced for this year's Ozzfest, which is scheduled to kick off July 12 in Seattle, WA. It is as follows:

    Jul. 12 - White River Amphitheatre, Seattle, WA
    Jul. 14 - Gorge, George, WA
    Jul. 17 - Sleep Train Amphitheatre, Sacramento, CA
    Jul. 19 - Shoreline Amphitheatre, Mountain View, CA
    Jul. 21 - Hyundai Pavilion, Devore, CA
    Jul. 24 - Cricket Pavilion, Phoenix, AZ
    Jul. 26 - Journal Pavilion, Albuquerque, NM
    Jul. 28 - Coors Amphitheatre, Denver, CO
    Jul. 30 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, Kansas City, MO
    Aug. 02 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, San Antonio, TX
    Aug. 04 - Smirnoff Music Center, Dallas, TX
    Aug. 06 - UMB Bank Pavilion, St. Louis, MO
    Aug. 08 - Germain Amphitheatre, Columbus, OH
    Aug. 10 - First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre, Tinley Park, IL
    Aug. 12 - Alpine Valley Music Theatre, East Troy, WI
    Aug. 14 - Verizon Wireless Music Theatre, Indianapolis, IN
    Aug. 16 - PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel, NJ
    Aug. 18 - New England Dodge Music Theatre, Hartford, CT
    Aug. 20 - Tweeter Center, Boston, MA
    Aug. 22 - Tweeter Center, Philadelphia, PA
    Aug. 24 - Post Gazette Pavilion, Pittsburgh, PA
    Aug. 26 - DTE Energy Music Theatre, Detroit, MI
    Aug. 28 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, Charlotte, NC
    Aug. 30 - Sound Advice Amphitheatre, West Palm Beach, FL

    The traveling extravaganza will once again be headlined by OZZY OSBOURNE, with the rest of the lineup yet to be announced. Ozzfest co-founder Sharon Osbourne said during a press conference last month that doing the tour like this was unprecedented:

    "We're doing 25 shows across America, and it's the first time that actually a summer festival tour has gone out free. There's been millions of free one-off shows, but this is gonna be a 25-city tour. And we're having our second stage, as usual, and everything goes as normal, except it's free."

    Ozzfest will utilize sponsors to offset the costs of producing and running the festival. To gain entry into the event, fans will go to Ozzfest.com or LiveNation.com to find links that will direct them to special sponsor sites where tickets can be secured. More details regarding the process are forthcoming.

    Sharon said that rising artist fees would have forced Ozzfest organizers to raise ticket prices this year. While smaller acts have traditionally not received a fee, Sharon insisted that no one is getting paid this time: "We are giving people a stage, and we're giving them a chance to play in front of thousands of people. And we're giving them the chance on days off, they can go work wherever they wanna work, gig wherever they wanna gig. They can even play Ozzfest and then go off that night and do another gig, 'cause we start music from noon. But they can come, they can sell their merchandise, they can sell their music. But it's free. We're not paying anyone."

    Sharon said that the tour already had "bands committed," adding, "We know there aren't any major headlining acts that would tour all summer for nothing, but we're confident we can turn some of the genre's biggest bands on to what we're doing and have them come out to play a date or two."

    In a prepared statement, Sharon also said that the reason for doing the tour this way was simple: "We're reaching the same point we did years ago when kids no longer wanted to pay for overpriced CDs. As a result, they found alternative ways of getting music. That's what's happening with summer touring in this country, it's out-pricing itself. We started this and we want to keep it and we want to make it bigger and bigger each year by getting bigger sponsors to be involved with the festival and underwriting the festival."
  • DETRIMENTUM Renew Deal With GRINDETHIC RECORDS

    Grindethic Records has announced the signing of UK extreme metallers DETRIMENTUM. The label had previously released their debut release, the colossal EP " A Monument to Suffering" in 1999.

    Commented Tom from Grindethic: "After long discussions with the band, we are extremely proud to announce that the fantastic full-length " Embracing This Deformity" will see light of day via Grindethic Records in Spring 2007. This album offers a unique experience of dark and crushing brutality intertwined with an atmosphere of morbid doom."

    Beginning life under the name ZARATHUSTRA in 1996, the band would evolve into the monster known as DETRIMENTUM . Recorded over a 2year period, their upcoming magnus opus "Embracing this Deformity" exhibits the band's exceptional depth and maturity in compositions whereby they craft an unconventional mix of old-school deathmetal combined with sweeping guitar melodies, expansive doom passages and tortured vocals.

    DETRIMENTUM's lineup is as follows:

    Jon Butlin - Guitar
    Paul Wilkinson – Guitar
    Eddie Ruffles (INFECTED DISARRAY) – Bass & Vocals
    Jon Rushforth (GOREROTTED, INFECTED DISARRAY) - Drums

    Further details about their upcoming album and its release date will be announced shortly.

    For more info please visit:
    http://www.grindethic.co.uk
    http://www.detrimentum.co.uk
  • METAL VETERANS FORM THE CURSED, PREPARE RELEASE OF THEIR DEBUT, ‘ROOM FULL OF SINNERS’ MAY 22ND VIA SCREAMING FERRET WRECKORDS

    In the 1980’s, many New Jersey-based metalheads witnessed the emergence of two bands that rocketed out of the metal underground - Overkill and Hades.

    Come 2007, the leaders of each band - Overkill singer Bobby ‘Blitz’ Ellsworth and Hades guitarist Dan Lorenzo – have joined forces in a new band, The Cursed, who are readying the release of their debut full-length, ‘Room Full of Sinners,’ on May 22nd , via the Screaming Ferret label.

    Along with bassist Job the Raver and drummer Mike Cristi, the group spent much of the spring and summer of 2006 writing and rehearsing new material. “Leven Als God in Frankrijk” brings to mind vintage Motorhead, while the album’s first single, “Evil, in the Bag” wouldn’t sound out of place on one of Black Sabbath’s early ‘70s classic albums. ‘Room Full of Sinners’ also benefits greatly from the sound of a band that hasn’t been processed through ProTools – it sounds pretty darn close to standing in the middle of the group’s rehearsal space while they let it rip. As a result, The Cursed will undoubtedly appeal to headbangers who like their metal lean and mean.

    Shock jocks Opie and Anthony have been among the band’s first supporters, as the duo has featured The Cursed music on both their website as well as their radio show. And according to Mediabase, since “Evil, in the Bag” was first serviced to radio in February, the song has been heard by an estimated 60,000 people. The buzz on The Cursed will only grow stronger in the coming months, as nationwide teaser ads in print(magazines and newspapers) have been running for months and will continue to run.

    Heavy Internet promotion and ad banners will also appear through genre specific sites, as well as the Myspace and Screaming Ferret Wreckords sites. Also, the video for "Evil, in the Bag" will be serviced to all online outlets, with MTV2’s ‘Headbangers Ball’ having expressed positive feedback to multiple spins.

    Songs from ‘Room Full of Sinners’ include:
    1) Sweeter
    2) Evil, in the Bag
    3) Breaking Her Down
    4) Best of the Worst
    5) Native Tongue
    6) Serpentine Slither
    7) All's Right
    8) Leven Als God in Frankrijk
    9) One Time
    10) Queen of the Down
    11) Generate Her

    Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth - vocals (from Overkill)
    Dan Lorenzo - guitar (from Hades)
    Mike Cristi - drums (from Non-Fiction)
    Job the Raver - bass (from Murder 1)

    For more information, go to
    www.the-cursed.net
    www.myspace.com/thecurseddotnet
    www.screamingferret.com
  • "THE PSYCHEDELIC UNDERGROUND" IN STORES NOW

    ERIC GALES NEW RELEASE ON BLUES BUREAU RECORDS


    HOLLYWOOD –A worthy follow-up to 2006’s Crystal Vision, Eric Gale’s new album “The Psychedelic Underground” [Blues Bureau Records] affirms Gales as one of the rare musical talents of his generation. This left-handed guitarist of extraordinary ability and expressive vocals is a natural for people to compare to Hendrix. Gales has developed a unique hybrid blues/rock sound that also draws upon influences as diverse as Albert King and Eric Johnson. A unique blending of styles, Eric Gales stands head and shoulders among other guitarists in his genre.

    Eric Gales grew up in a musical family with four brothers, two of them who learned to play the guitar upside down and left handed in the same fashion that Eric does. Eric's brother Eugene Gales played bass in the Eric Gales Band and his brother Jimmy King had a thriving career as a blues artist before his untimely death. Eric released his first record at Age 16 for Elektra records to an amazing response from the media and music fans around the globe. Guitar World Magazine's Reader's Poll named Eric as "Best New Talent," in 1991. After recording a second record for Elektra, all three brothers teamed up for "The Gales Bros. Left Hand Band" which was recorded for the House of Blues label in 1996. Through the years, it would not be unusual to look out in the audience and see artists like Carlos Santana, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, B. B. King, and Eric Clapton, looking on with interest as Eric took his God-given talent and worked crowd after crowd into a frenzy.

    The new Millennium presented new opportunities for Eric and he was signed to a deal with Nightbird Records which was affiliated with Jimi Hendrix's sister Janie Hendrix and Experience Hendrix, L. L. C. and distributed through MCA/Universal. Under this deal, Eric recorded the critically acclaimed record "That's What I Am" in 1991 and hit the road, mesmerizing fans around the world with his uncanny connection to his guitar. In 2004 Eric Gales made headline music news when he was chosen to perform with Carlos Santana, Joe Satriani, Jerry Cantrell and others on the Experience Hendrix tour to honor the late, great, Jimi Hendrix.

    Eric's masterful guitar and vocal performances on “The Psychedelic Underground” portend a great response from these loyal music lovers as guitarists of this quality and intensity are few and far between.
  • MASSACHUSETTS’ ‘TILL WE DIE’ READYING MULTI-DIMENSIONAL DEBUT FOR SCREAMING FERRET WRECKORDS, WITH ‘PRESSING ON’ DUE JUNE 19TH, 2007 ANNOUNCES SPECIAL CD RELEASE SHOW AT THE AVALON ON SATURDAY, JUNE 23RD, 2007

    During the late ‘90s, Massachusetts saw many up-and-coming local rock acts rocket up the charts to stardom. Ten years later, it appears as though the region is readying for another uprising of hard rock acts – including the leaders of the pack, Till We Die.

    “I haven’t seen a young band draw crowds like they do at their shows since the early days of Godsmack back at the Brewhouse in Haverhill, MA, ten years ago before they were signed,” says head of Screaming Ferret Wreckords, Tim Koukos.

    “These guys command the same kind of energy and presence as Godsmack did back then.” Formed in 2004 by singer Matt Ingham and guitarist Joe Demarco, the duo soon enlisted the rhythm section of bassist Mike Laroache and drummer Dave Stewart. With a sound that manages to touch upon both Tool’s prog explorations and melodic rock, the quartet began playing out live, and immediately began turning heads – leading to opening gigs for such renowned acts as RA, Lacuna Coil, Staind, Tantric, Sevendust, Drowning Pool, and Powerman 5000, among others. Additionally, Till We Die has played countless shows up and down the east coast, and was offered to support a 40-date Jagermeister tour in October of 2005, where they played with Scum of the Earth.

    Due to their earlier successful opening spot for RA, the group has since invited the then-still-unsigned band on several tours of other parts of the country. Joe DeMarco & Dave Stewart add, "It has been a long road to get were we are now, and hard to express the excitement of everything that's going on and happening all around us at this point. We feel this new material that we've recorded is some of our best work to date! We're looking forward to unveiling it to the masses."

    Their live performance is what they have built their reputation on and are always giving fans a dynamic and intense set, and after recently signing to Screaming Ferret (distributed by Fontana), Till We Die has succeeded in translating their live experience to the studio.

    The group’s full-length debut, ‘Pressing On,’ will be released on Tuesday, June 19th, and will be followed by a CD release show at the Avalon in Boston, Saturday June 23rd.

    The confirmed details for the release party are outlined below.

    Live Nation Presents Till We Die CD Release Party
    Avalon Ballroom
    All Ages Show with 5 P.M Doors
    Free CD with purchase of a ticket.

    Tickets go onsale Saturday, March 17th at 10 A.M thru
    www.livenation.com or www.ticketmaster.com

    With music that is original and filled with the band's raw emotions, it’s only a matter of time before the world takes notice of Till We Die.

    Tracklisting for ‘Pressing On’:
    Skitzo
    Low
    Lies
    UPS
    Ride
    Defined
    That Day
    Selfish
    Pressing On
    Do It Again
    Slave
    Ting
    Apology

    For more information, go to:
    http://www.myspace.com/tillwedierock
    http://www.screamingferret.com/
  • The triumph of spring over winter - ALCEST sign with Prophecy Productions

    After making a small stir in the Black Metal underground with their 2004 mini-CD "Le Secret", ALCEST have left their origins in that scene far behind them. Their music manages to evoke a spring-like atmosphere full of beauty, intense joy and light, but also yearning and nostalgia. It brings to mind memories of the innocence and bliss of a childhood long past as well as impressions of a fantastic realm of perfect harmony.

    Bearing in mind the roots of multi-instrumentalist Neige's one-man project, this concept and its musical expression are nothing less than revolutionary, and hence Prophecy Productions and ALCEST are equally proud of having laid the foundation for a long-lasting cooperation with a contract over five records.

    The first testimony of this collaboration will be the project's debut album, "Souvenirs d'un autre monde", to be released in summer, a record that already now can be regarded as a peerless landmark. To fill in the time until the release, you can listen to some sound samples here: www.myspace.com/alcestmusic.

    http://www.prophecy.cd/
  • THE VISION BLEAK Studio Update - Drumrecording Clip online

    Watch THE VISION BLEAK working hard on their third yet untitled album at Klangschmiede Studio E: "We are sure the album will turn out killer! We have put a clip from the drum recordings on our myspace site. Watch it here. You can hear the intro of the album in the opening sequence plus a short excerpt from the new song "The Black Pharao Part I" in a rough version on that clip. More clips from guitar/bass recordings and the vocal sessions will follow in the next weeks! "

    http://www.prophecy.cd/
  • Emperor Return to the US

    Emperor will return to the US on May 31 for three additional shows for their stateside fans. The band will perform in Chicago, New York and end in Los Angeles before heading back home. Guitarist Samoth and drummer Trym will perform with Zyklon just prior to the Emperor dates making their first appearance at the Maryland Death Festival on May 27. Once the band returns home to Norway, vocalist/guitarist Ihsahn will continue work on his second solo album expected for release in early 2008.

    Opening for Emperor in Chicago and Los Angeles is Montana-based Martriden. The band's self-titled debut album will be released by Candlelight on June 19. Album details will be updated shortly.
  • MARDUK - ROM 5:12
    Release Date 5/22/07

    THOSE OF THE UNLIGHT, DARK ENDLESS, OPUS NOCTURNE, HEAVEN SHALL BURN [reissues] Release date 4/24/07

    "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned..." -Rom 5:12

    Since their formation in 1990 Marduk has brutally crushed all opposition through 9 studio albums and extensive touring worldwide. This highly anticipated follow up to 2004's Plague Angel will once again confirm Marduk's position as one of the world's top black metal acts, leaving all pretenders far behind. Crushing riffing, blasting drums and furious vocals delivered with the utmost precision and intensity will leave no one standing...

    Recorded at Magnus "Devo" Andersson's Endarker Studio, Rom 5:12 features guest vocals by ex-Marduk member Joakim Göthberg on the hymn "Cold Mouth Prayer" and Primordial's Alan on the track "Accuser/Opposer", as well as an exclusive track written in cooperation with Arditi.

    Fear the coming of Roman 5:12. In death we are all united.

    Regain will also be reissuing an arsenal of the classic Marduk back-catalog on April 24th, including Dark Endless, Those of the Unlight, Opus Nocturne and Heaven Shall Burn.

    www.marduk.nu
  • LORD BELIAL - REVELATION
    Release Date 5/8/07

    "Cold", "melodic" and "raw" are the keywords when it comes to the Swedish black metal act Lord Belial. With a history dating back to 1992 the band has continued to improve with each new release, and this, their 6th studio album, surely marks a new high point in the ongoing Lord Belial legacy. Once again the band has visited renowned Los Angered Studios with producer Andy LaRocque, continuing a successful cooperation that has lasted since 1999's "Unholy Crusade", and once again the result is a clear and powerful production befitting of a powerful black metal album.

    After the highly acclaimed 2005 album "Nocturnal Beast" and successful touring and festival appearances around Euroupe the world eagerly awaits the new masterpiece - and Lord Belial's latest offspring is truly a Revelation!

    www.lordbelial.com
  • TONY NAIMA & THE BITTERS - DISMEMBER
    Release Date 5/8/07

    Without doubt a very unique constellation was born in 2006. Swedish singer/songwriter Tony Naima and his band The Bitters are making their own interpretations of Dismember songs. So you might ask yourself how this idea ever occurred. In February 2006 when Dismember had their release party Tony Naima was asked to go on stage and perform 2 Dismember classics and so he did. The reactions from the crowd was amazing.

    After the show discussions about Tony Naima & the Bitters making a Dismember cover album started. The result can be heard on this album featuring 9 tracks all chosen by Dismember and Tony Naima together. How this sounds can´t just be described in words, you need to hear it!

    www.myspace.com/tonynaima
  • ARCH ENEMY - BLACK EARTH [REISSUE]
    release date 4/24/07

    Metal titans Arch Enemy's dynamic cocktail of melody and aggression have earned them massive critical acclaim, a rabid world wide fan base and slots on 2005's Ozzfest and 2006's Gigantour. Previous tours include Slayer, Hatebreed, Cradle of Filth and Iron Maiden to name a few. Black Earth, originally released throughout Europe in 1997 and sold as an import in North America is finally being officially released by Regain Records with bonus tracks and a video for “Bury Me An Angel”.

    Throughout Europe the release of Black Earth propelled Arch Enemy with flawlessly technical dual guitars and a previously unheard of mixture of melody and aggression, which helped them to quickly solidify their reputation as one of the genre’s elite.
  • US ATROCITY SIGN ON FOR NEW FULL LENGTH WITH OPEN GRAVE RECORDS

    Reunited Torrington, Connecticut-based thrash/hardcore act ATROCITY (not to be confused with the German band) have signed with Open Grave Records for a brand new full length album due out late 2007 early 2008. Earlier this year Open Grave Records released “Contaminated”, which featured alternative recordings from the original, “Infected” sessions back in 1990.

    Formed in early 1985 by Rob Wedda (vocals), Rich Flint (bass), Scott Reynolds (guitar) and Jeff White (drums), ATROCITY had pushed out three demos ("Toxic Death", "Ravaged by Disease", "Mangled") and a self-financed seven-inch EP, entitled "Hatred Birth", by 1989. They soon caught the attention of U.K.-based Metalcore Records, a subsidiary of Plastichead Distribution, whom they ultimately signed with.

    ATROCITY's first album, "Infected" (1990), is very raw and featured a very violent death metal/grind sound. The second album, "The Art of Death" (1992), saw a lineup change when Scott left the band and was replaced by Jesse Piechowski on guitar.

    ATROCITY is also confirmed to cover, “I See A Darkness” for the upcoming Johnny Cash Tribute album titled, “A Metal Tribute to the Man in Black” which is scheduled for a summer release on Open Grave Records. Other confirmed artists include: Master, My Silent Wake, Godless Rising, Frost Like Ashes, Kekal, Skitzo, Supertruck, Sacrificium, Exterminance, Supawide, and Transfigural Form.

    http://www.opengraverecords.com
  • POINT ONE GEARS UP FOR ALBUM RELEASE AND HITS THE ROAD
    Unlucky Stars in-stores May 22nd
    Now on Tour with VAST

    The heavy alt rock scene is alive and kicking in the Northwest and Seattle’s own POINT ONE are leading the charge. Groove oriented, Unapologetic, pile driving hard rock that takes you back to the day when bands really knew how to rock.

    Their first single “Monochrome Mistress” (getting lots of play on college and metal radio) summons early Motley and GnR, but it doesn’t stop there. POINT ONE has a sound all their own. Anyone who has seen this band live can attest to that catharsis, onstage or in the pit.

    See it for yourself as POINT ONE hit the road with VAST, and be on the look out for their highly anticipated full length release Unlucky Stars (Wenzl Hopper/Adrenaline), in-stores on May 22nd.

    VIDEO Streams – “Monochrome Mistress”
    Windows media http://www.point1music.com/video/Monochrome_Mistress.wmv
    Quicktime http://www.point1music.com/video/Monochrome_Mistress.mov
    Real Player Streaming link coming soon!

    AUDIO Streams – “Monochrome Mistress”
    Windows Media - http://www.point1music.com/audio/MonohromeMistress.wma
    Real Player - http://www.point1music.com/audio/MonohromeMistress.ram

    point one

    Great rock ‘n’ roll is the perfect combination of combustibility and compatibility. Consider the study in contradiction that is Seattle’s pile driving Point One. They play unapologetically assaultive hard rock… with a brain and a conscience. They distill equal parts Metallica and Radiohead into their crushing compositions… hailing from an environment that prefers sedate indie-rock introspection.

    It’s fitting that vocalist Lenny Hotrum and bassist Darren Howard, the volatile quartet’s principal songwriters, approach their craft from diametrically opposing standpoints, yet make it work. “Len kind of brings the heavier element… you know, the detuning, the screaming and stuff,” Howard reveals. “I try to bring more melody and more interesting chords, different styles, make things a little more cinematic sounding.”

    Celestial is more like it. Point One’s third full-length, Unlucky Stars (following 2002’s Stress Related Injuries and 2005’s The Absence) careens recklessly from seething yet melodic anthems like “Cruel” to sleazy biker bar throwbacks like “Monochrome Mistress,” yet boasts almost seamless continuity.

    Longtime friends Hotrum, Howard, and drummer Chase Culp had plenty of time to perfect the band’s alternately snotty and sincere disorder before guitarist Keith Wright joined the fold three years ago. Hotrum’s unmistakable, hoarse war cry perfectly complemented Howard’s artier sensibilities. Another portent of the perfect storm: the lyrical puree of Hotrum’s spiritual yearning and Howard’s more secular ruminations on women and friendship stoked a universal perspective that resonated in both confessional power rock (“Oxygen”) and balls-out glam-slams (“Drama Queen”). “This is where Mötley Crüe and Guns N’ Roses come into the picture for us,” Hotrum notes. “They’re a huge inspiration and those bands were obviously kick-ass, dirty, slutty rock ‘n’ roll and that’s missing [today]. That stuff doesn’t really happen any more and we aspire to fill that void. That’s our release and that’s our fans’ release.”

    Anybody who’s seen Point One can attest that catharsis isn’t pretty, onstage or in the pit. Even in a city bewitched by homegrown emo heroes like Death Cab for Cutie, Point One have nurtured a devoted fan base that not only rolls out homemade shirts and banners, but pays the ultimate tribute: inscribing tattoos of lyrics on their arms. The band is doing everything in their power to make them not regret it.

    Striving for honesty and truth without pretension in their lyrics, Hotrum and Howard call it like they see it, detailing life’s hardships without passing judgment or wallowing in self-pity. It’s most evident on Unlucky Stars’ title track, a churning pinball machine of hooks inspired by the band’s recent experiences while recording in LA. Such is the uncensored reflection Point One provide. Whatever styles come and go, they’re constantly reinventing their already unique niche.

    “The more trendy it is, the more temporary it is,” Howard shrugs. “We’re just trying to do something that—not to be too lofty—but something that will stand up a little over time, something that we genuinely like.”

    ARTIST SITE: http://point1music.com/
    MySpace page: http://myspace.com/pointone
    LABEL: http://adrenalinemusicgroup.com/
  • HE IS LEGEND new video clip online!

    HE IS LEGEND have posted the clip for the song “Attack Of The Dungeon Witch”, which can be found on the band’s first release for Century Media Records entitled “Suck Out The Poison”, online at their myspace page, for a direct link click HERE!!!

    On “Suck Out The Poison” HE IS LEGEND once again defy pigeonholing with a brilliant mix of Southern Rock, Grunge, Metal and Emo sounds, and the album has been hailed by critics as a “force of nature” (STARDUST (D) magazine) whereas German METAL HAMMER labelled it a “rousing and extremely diverse mixture that knows no taboos”.

    In early 2007, HE IS LEGEND toured Europe together with labelmates Norma Jean and The Showdown to present their new masterpiece onstage. If you like to check out some songs taken off “Suck Out The Poison”, visit the band’s myspace profile @ www.myspace.com/heislegend.com

    www.heislegend.com
  • PARADISE LOST released new single in April!

    On April 13th, 2007 long-running British gothic metal leaders PARADISE LOST will release the first single taken off their much anticipated upcoming Century Media Records debut “In Requiem”, which sees the band combine the classic heaviness of “Draconian Times” with the melodic feel of their more recent studio albums. The new single “The Enemy” will only be released in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy.

    The new album was produced by Rhys Fulber (who already produced the last two PARADISE LOST albums as well as Fear Factory, Frontline Assembly, etc.) and mixed by Mike Frazer (AC/DC, Aerosmith, Metallica, etc.).

    Vocalist Nick Holmes on the new masterpiece: "We wanted to make a heavier, darker PARADISE LOST album. But it was also important to write songs that encompass the melody that has become very much an integral part of our music over the last 10 years".

    Greg Mackintosh (lead guitar) adds: “The album “In Requiem” is a very conscious decision by us to take our sound in a more raw, organic, less polished direction. Musically, it is about finding the balance between brutality and empathy, between horror and beauty. Neither a celebration nor a lamentation. Simply the emotions that arise, being surrounded by life and death.”

    And drummer Jeff Singer answers the question number one – how does the new album sound? “Very heavy, very dark and lots of double bass drums...”.

    The album “In Requiem” will be released on May 21st, 2007 in Europe.

    The single “The Enemy” includes a trailer of the upcoming PARADISE LOST documentary “Over The Madness” (directed by Diran Noubar and debuting at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2007) as video enhancement and the exclusive non-album track “Godless”.

    Here the full track-listing for PARADISE LOST’s new single “The Enemy”:

    1. The Enemy
    2. Beneath Black Skies
    3. Godless (exclusive single bonus track)

    www.myspace.com/paradiselostuk
    www.paradiselost.co.uk
  • SUICIDE SILENCE sign worldwide with Century Media Records!

    Century Media Records is proud to announce SUICIDE SILENCE as the newest addition to its worldwide family. This devastating quintet from Riverside, CA immediately separated themselves from the underground through an undying work ethic and undeniable live performance. The group will enter the studio in March with John Travis (Kid Rock, Static-X) to record their debut full-length, which is tentatively set for a summer release.

    Mitch Lucker (vocals) further describes the band's excitement over the new deal: "We're very excited to join such a historic roster alongside so many great metal bands. The Century Media Family is extremely hard working and dedicated to supporting the goals we've set as a band. They have a solid understanding of the direction we're looking to take this band and are just as much our friends as they are our record label at this point. Thank you to everyone who has been with us from the beginning and we can't wait to get back on the road to support the release of our new record later this year. See you all soon."

    SUICIDE SILENCE released a five-song EP for Third Degree Records in 2005, which was the perfect testament to the damage the band is capable of inflicting. Their music clearly represents their many influences, incorporating a savage mix of death metal, grindcore, black metal, hardcore and doom elements into each track. The group's most notable and defining niche is defying the genre's predictable conventions, striving to create something more exciting and unique. The songs are dynamic and crushing, shifting effortlessly from insane grind chaos into surgically precise, disorienting time signatures topped off with snail-paced grooves and destructive breakdowns.

    Following an acclaimed performance at last year's New England Metal and Hardcore Festival, SUICIDE SILENCE spent the remainder of the summer on their first headlining U.S. run, with All Shall Perish and Too Pure To Die in the support slots. This would lead immediately into their first U.K. headlining tour, helping them further garner a rabid worldwide underground following.

    SUICIDE SILENCE adheres to no preconceived notions and refuses to be pigeonholed into any specific genre. The juxtaposition of each member's talents creates an explosive, yet exciting result that is sure to keep the entire extreme music world on their toes and wondering just what is coming next. Expect the boundaries of conventionality to be shattered in 2007 with this dynamic debut release.

    www.suicidesilence.net
    www.myspace.com/suicidesilence
  • IN THIS MOMENT - “Beautiful Tragedy” out in June

    Century Media Records is extremely proud to welcome IN THIS MOMENT to its family. The Southern California based quintet quickly became one of the most talked about artists within the local scene due to the intensity of frontwoman Maria Brink and an undying work ethic.

    The group’s songwriting blends together a propulsive mixture of metal and hard rock elements that will quickly help them carve out their own unique niche within the scene. The diversity and depth of their songwriting is refreshing and their musical prowess is simply undeniable.

    IN THIS MOMENT further describe their thoughts on the new deal and upcoming album:

    “We are very excited to be a part of the Century Media family and to be included in the CM roster along with so many great bands is truly an honor for us. Words really can’t describe how great it feels to be starting our career with such a great label behind us. We are so thankful for all the opportunities we have been given. We finished recording our debut album with Eric Rachel (Dillinger Escape Plan, God Forbid) at Trax East, which was an amazing experience. Eric exceeded our expectations in every way and he was able to bring out the best in all of us. It was definitely five weeks we will never forget.”

    IN THIS MOMENT’s debut-album “Beautiful Tragedy” will be released June 18th in Europe. The release of the album will be supported by shows and festival-appearances all over Europe:

    IN THIS MOMENT

    05.06.2007 (UK) Southhampton - Nexxus
    15.06.2007 (A) Nickelsdorf - Nova Rock Festival
    18.06.2007 (NL) Tilburg - O13
    19.06.2007 (DK) Aarhus - Train
    20.06.2007 (DK) Copenhagen - Vega
    21.06.2007 (D) Hamburg - Markthalle
    22.06.2007 (D) Bielefeld - Serengeti Festival
    24.06.2997 (B) Dessel - Graspop

    more dates soon

    Official MySpace Page – www.myspace.com/inthismoment
  • SICK OF IT ALL announce release of "Tribute to." album!

    In 2006, SICK OF IT ALL celebrated their 20th anniversary and now such renowned bands as Hatebreed, Rise Against, Napalm Death, Sepultura, Unearth, Walls Of Jericho, Madball, Ignite, Comeback Kid, Pennywise, and many others, have decided to pay tribute to one of the most legendary, persistent and dedicated hardcore bands still active.

    “Our Impact Will Be Felt - A Tribute To Sick Of It All” is the title of this highly anticipated sensational collection of SICK OF IT ALL covers and will be released on Century Media Records on April 23rd, 2007.

    You can find the full track-listing @ www.myspace.com/soiatribute. Also, various songs taken off this release will be premiered there in weekly turns, so make sure to check this out!

    Do not miss SICK OF IT ALL’s 2006 released Century Media Records debut “Death To Tyrants”, which is still available as limited tour edition featuring bonus material.

    Watch SICK OF IT ALL’s latest video clip “Take The Night Off” at Century Media’s Youtube page: www.youtube.com/user/centurymediaeurope

    www.myspace.com/sickofitallny
    www.sickofitall.com
  • MANNGARD News Update

    On March 15, 2007, MANNGARD will enter Lydriket (The SoundREICH) to start recording their sophomore album, title TBA. The band will update their MySpace site with studio reports and pictures from the sessions along the way.

    The band states: "In the years that have passed since we originally released "Circling Buzzards", we've all been busy in the metal field, it not necessarily keeping MANNGARD in the public eye at all times."

    Vocalist Olav Iversen has seen major exposure and massive gigging activity with his doom outfit SAHG, also featuring members of AUDREY HORNE and GORGOROTH.

    Guitarist Olav Kristiseter has made his Norwegian debut as a novelist with "Blodlenka" (The Bloodchain), a morbid tale of Norwegian backwood monstrosity, largely based on the lyrical themes from "Circling Buzzards", as well as appearing on the JAZKAMER album METAL MUSIC MACHINE, alongside Ivar Bj?rnson and Iver Sandoy.

    Drummer Iver Sandoy has seen his services being utilized by ENSLAVED (the "Terje Vigen" movie project), more JAZKAMER recordings and gigs around Europe, and is now also a member of TRINACRIA, the new band featuring Ivar Bj?rnson, Grutle Kjellson and Arve "Ice Dale" Isdal of ENSLAVED, Hild Sofie Tafjord and Maja Ratkje of FE:MAIL and Espen Lien (SLUT MACHINE, BARBIE BONES).

    While staying busy with other projects, MANNGARD have kept writing new material and fine tuning it in rehearsals. Their considerable collective energy is now focused on the recording of the new MANNGARD album, which promises to be even more massive, twisted and evil than the debut.

    www.myspace.com/manngard

    www.metalmaniacs.com
  • PHARAOH Working On New Album

    American metal favorites PHARAOH have set 'Be Gone' as the tentative title for their upcoming third album, due for a release later this year via Cruz del Sur Music. As drummer Chris Black explains, "It would be misleading to call this a concept album, although there is a common thread to the lyrics throughout.We're working more closely together as a band on the songwriting this time, for both music and lyrics, so naturally we're seeing a more cohesive album coming together." Some working songtitles for the album include "Dark New Life", "Cover Your Eyes and Pray", "Red Honor", "When We Fly", and "Ten Years".

    Despite the widespread fan and critical acclaim surrounding its two albums, PHARAOH has yet to perform live. "We haven't had the right opportunity," says the drummer. "All of us want to do it, but only under the right conditions. [Vocalist] Tim [Aymar] is living in Florida now, I'm in Michigan, and the other guys are in Pennsylvania, so we're not exactly in a position to perform on stage unless the conditions and timing are 100%. And we always give priority to studio work, since that is what makes us Pharaoh. We are songwriters above all else, and that will never change."

    The band is presently completing the songwriting and rehearsal process for a June/July recording session at MCR Studios with Matt Crooks, the same facility and producer responsible for the band's celebrated 2006 album 'The Longest Night'.

    www.cruzdelsurmusic.com
    www.solarflight.net

    www.metalmaniacs.com
  • THINE EYES BLEED Commence Work On Sophomore Album

    Canadian thrashers THINE EYES BLEED have entered the studio to commence work on their sophomore album.

    In an update from the studio frontman Justin Wolfe writes:

    "We entered Beach Road Studio (located in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada) on March 11th, 2007 to begin tracking with Seigfried Meier. We will be here over the next few weeks and are excited to dive into this recording. We are now a few days into the drums and they sound amazing, the tracking room is nice and spacious with high ceilings and pine walls creating great acoustics. Darryl has been shredding his drum tracks so far, letting us know this is gonna be some brutal shit! As for the rest of us, guitar hero has been the main focus so far, enhancing our hand-eye coordination. Cheers, Justin"

    The band re-released their 2005 debut for THE END RECORDS, entitled "In the Wake of Separation", in May of 2006. The CD included the bonus track "Better off Dead" (previously available only in Japan) and the video for "Cold Victim".

    THINE EYES BLEED took part in the mega-successful North American and European legs of the 2006 UNHOLY ALLIANCE TOUR, which featured SLAYER, CHILDREN OF BODOM, MASTODON and LAMB OF GOD.

    Official THINE EYES BLEED website:
    http://www.thineeyesbleed.com

    Official MySpace Site:
    http://www.myspace.com/thineeyesbleed

    www.metalmaniacs.com
  • ANGLECORPSE Finish Recording Fourth Full Length

    As most of you know now, ANGELCORPSE has completed the recording of our fourth full length album "Of Lucifer and Lightning" (see track listing below). Osmose Productions will handle the release of the CD (and limited edition LP) in Europe The End will handle things in North America, and Mutilation Productions will take care of South America. We are embarking on a short US East Coast tour in May, with WATAIN and NACHTMYSTIUM in support, as well as numerous other harsh underground acts. I urge anyone interested in the extreme side of metal to attend: outings such as this will prove to be far and few between...

    "Of Lucifer and Lightning"

    Credo Decimatus
    Antichrist Vanguard
    Machinery of the Cleansing
    Hexensabbat
    Extermination Sworn
    Saints of Blasphemy
    Thrall
    Shining One (Rex Luciferi)
    Lustmord

    www.metalmaniacs.com
  • OZZY OSBOURNE, MEGADETH, SLAYER Confirmed For Spain's MONSTERS OF ROCK

    OZZY OSBOURNE, MEGADETH, VELVET REVOLVER, MOTÖRHEAD, SLAYER and DREAM THEATER are among the confirmed bands for the Monsters of Rock festival, set to take place June 22-23 in Zaragoza, Spain. The festival billing is shaping up as follows:

    Friday, June 22:

    OZZY OSBOURNE
    MEGADETH
    VELVET REVOLVER
    MÄGO DE OZ
    BLACK LABEL SOCIETY

    Saturday, June 23:

    MOTÖRHEAD
    SLAYER
    DREAM THEATER
    BLIND GUARDIAN
    PRETTY MAIDS
    KAMELOT
    One more band to be announced
  • U.D.O. To Release New EP In April

    U.D.O., the band led by former ACCEPT frontman Udo Dirkschneider, will release a new EP, entitled "The Wrong Side of Midnight", on April 27. The EP will include two versions of the title track as well as three non-album tracks.

    U.D.O. is currently in the studio putting the finishing touches on its new album, "Mastercutor", due on May 18 via AFM Records.

    U.D.O. supported LORDI on September 28, 2006 at the Live Music Hall in Cologne. Dirkschneider makes an appearance on the song "They Only Come Out At Night" on LORDI's latest album, "The Arockalypse".

    U.D.O.'s last album, "Mission No. X", was issued in September 2005 via AFM Records. The follow-up to 2004's "Thunderball" marked the recording debut with the group of new drummer Francesco Jovino. Jovino joined the band in 2005 as the permanent replacement for Lorenzo Milani, who left the group for "personal reasons."
  • NEW JERESEY’S SAPREMIA SIGN TWO RECORD DEAL WITH OPEN GRAVE RECORDS

    Recently resurrected New Jersey Death Metal fiends, SAPREMIA have inked a two record deal with Open Grave Records. The first release to be a split CD with label mates EXTERMINANCE in August of 2007, followed by a brand new full length in late 2007 / early 2008.

    SAPREMIA was born in the early 1990's as a five piece. After many line-up changes, the main stay worked out being a four piece unit with dual lead vocals. This lineup (Lou Ferrara bass/vocals, Jay Lipitz guitar/vocals, Brian Rulli guitar, Dave Knauer drums) was constant through two successful demo releases "Subconscious Rot" in 1992 and "Existence of Torture" in 1994. Shortly after “Existence” was launched, Jay left for greener pastures and SAPREMIA stayed active in the scene for another year or so as a three piece.

    Now, 10 years later, the lineup features Lou Ferrara (bass/vocals), Brian Valenti (guitar), and Brian Rulli (guitar) and Ryan Hill on the skins. Since their return in 2006 SAPREMIA remastered their original demos and released it under the titled, “ Subconscious Existence”, as well as playing shows all over the East Coast.

    http://www.opengraverecords.com
  • ICED EARTH Completes Work On New Single; More Album Details Revealed

    ICED EARTH mainman Jon Schaffer has sent the following update to BLABBERMOUTH.NET:

    "I just wanted to give you an update of what's happening in ICED EARTH world.

    "We just finished mixing and mastering the [new] single, which will be titled 'Overture of the Wicked' and should be released in late May or early June. The four songs that will be featured on this are as follows:

    01. Ten Thousand Strong
    02. Prophecy
    03. Birth of the Wicked
    04. The Coming Curse

    "'Ten Thousand Strong' will be the song that we will be filming a video for in the following months, most likely in June right around the Sweden Rock festival. "I'm very happy with the results of our efforts. We've been really working hard on delivering something special to you guys and this single is just a hint of things to come, and it's freakin' awesome.

    "We will be finishing the rest of production for Part 1 over the course of the next few weeks, with plans to mix in the early part of May. The title of the full release is 'Framing Armageddon (Something Wicked Part 1)' and should be out in the late August/September time frame. The 'Framing Armageddon' tracklist will appear as follows:

    01. Overture
    02. Something Wicked (Part 1)
    03. Invasion
    04. Man's Motivation
    05. The Setian Massacre
    06. A Charge to Keep
    07. Reflections
    08. Ten Thousand Strong
    09. Execution
    10. Order of the Rose
    11. The Clouding
    12. Infiltrate and Assimilate
    13. Retribution Through the Ages
    14. Something Wicked (Part 2)
    15. The Domino Decree
    16. Framing Armageddon
    17. When Stars Collide (Born is He)
    18. The Awakening

    "The working title of Part 2 is 'Revelation Abomination Something Wicked (Part 2)' and the tracklist is as follows:

    01. The Sacred Flames
    02. Behold the Wicked Child
    03. Minions of the Watch
    04. A Gift or a Curse
    05. I Walk Among You
    06. Harbinger of Fate
    07. Ancient Rage of the High Priest
    08. A Gathering Threat / Time Marches On
    09. Sacrificial Kingdoms
    10. Something Wicked (Part 3)
    11. Divide Devour
    12. Conspiracy / Pilgrimage In Guile
    13. Come What May

    "The final tracking and mixing for Part 2 will take place between the festivals and world tour and will have a targeted release in February/March of 2008.

    "Due to family health issues, Bo Wallace will not be able to be involved with ICED EARTH. I played the bass guitar parts on the single and we will be bringing Dennis Hayes, who worked with Tim [Owens, vocals] on his BEYOND FEAR side project, in to play on parts of the remainder of the recording. He will be doing the live shows as well."
  • MOTÖRHEAD Confirmed For Bulgaria's KALIAKRA ROCK FEST

    According to Pro-Rock, MOTÖRHEAD has been confirmed as one of the headliners of the traditional Bulgarian rock festival Kaliakra Rock Fest, which takes place every year in the coastal city of Kavarna. HEAVEN AND HELL — the band made up of BLACK SABBATH guitarist Tony Iommi and bassist Geezer Butler, singer Ronnie James Dio, and drummer Vinny Appice (BLACK SABBATH, DIO) — will headline the first night (June 28), while MOTÖRHEAD will close the festivities on June 29.

    MOTÖRHEAD's latest album, "Kiss of Death", entered the national album charts in the following countries: Germany: #4, Norway: #9, Sweden: #13, Austria: #20, Switzerland: #26, U.K.: #45, Denmark: #53. The CD was recorded at the Paramount studios in Los Angeles with Cameron Webb, who also worked with the group on 2004's "Inferno". The album includes guest appearances by POISON guitarist C.C. Deville and ALICE IN CHAINS bassist Mike Inez.
  • Electric Earth News

    Electric Earth, who have signed a worldwide deal with Belgium’s classic metal label Mausoleum Records, will see the release of their second CD “Vol II – Words Unspoken” in Sweden in early May. Mausoleum will release the album in the rest of the world (remaining territories) in late May or early June. The CD, which was recorded in Studio Bohus together with producer Roberto Laghi (Mustasch, Hardcore Superstar, Freak Kitchen, Transport League and The Awesome Machine), will come in an exclusive digipack.

    The plan is to support the album with extensive touring. So far the following shows are confirmed:

    5 May SAGA-teatern, Trollhättan (SE)
    25 May Gränslös Kulturfestival, Åmål (SE)

    Electric Earth recently recorded two brand new tracks as well as two covers, featuring special guests, which will be released as a vinyl-EP at the same time as the album. More information will follow.

    For more information and sound samples please visit:
    www.electricearth1.com and www.myspace.com/electricearthband
May 7th, 2007
  • PROGPOWER EUROPE LINE-UP COMPLETE

    We recently have completed the line-up for ProgPower Europe 2007, the Dutch newcomer NON-DIVINE and the Brazilian band THESSERA complete the line-up. This means that this year we offer you the following line-up:

    Friday 5 October (pre-party)
    doors open at 20.00
    THESSERA (bra) 21.30 - 22.45
    DGM (it) 23.15 - 00.45

    Saturday 6 October
    doors open at 13.00
    NON-DIVINE (nl) 13.45 - 14.40
    AGHORA (usa) 15.05 - 16.05
    NAHEMAH (esp) 16.30 - 17.30
    MECHANICAL POET (rus) 18.30 - 19.35
    HEAVEN'S CRY (can) 20.05 - 21.25
    ALCHEMIST (aus) 21.55 - 23.30

    Sunday October
    doors open at 13.00
    DAY SIX (nl) 13.45 - 14.40
    MEYVN (usa) 15.05 - 16.05
    CIRCUS MAXIMUS (nor) 16.30 - 17.30
    DREAMSCAPE (ger) 18.30 - 19.30
    SIEGES EVEN (ger) 19.55 - 21.05
    JON OLIVA'S PAIN (usa) 21.35 - 23.30

    WEEKEND TICKETS and PACKAGE DEALS FOR SALE NOW

    Weekend tickets and package deals (weekend ticket + a stay at Castle 'De Berckt' for 2 or 3 nights) are available through our website. Day-tickets will go on sale around 1 July. Be sure to order your package deal in time, we have to know at the beginning of April how many people will stay at Castle 'De berckt', so better order your package deal right now before it will be too late. Check the re-newed website for all the details, www.progpower.eu.

    WWW.PROGPOWER.EU
  • KREATOR, IMMOLATION Confirmed For Germany's PARTY.SAN METAL OPEN AIR

    KREATOR, IMMOLATION and F.U.C.K. have been confirmed for this year's edition of the Party.San Metal Open Air festival, set to take place August 9-11, 2007 in Bad Berka, Germany. The festival billing is shaping up as follows (in alphabetical order):

    ASPHYX
    BELPHEGOR
    BEWITCHED
    CEPHALIC CARNAGE
    CLITEATER
    DEICIDE
    DIE APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER
    DISASTER K.F.W.
    DRILLER KILLER
    EQUILIBRIUM
    F.U.C.K.
    FUNEBRARUM
    GORGOROTH
    GRAVE
    HEAMORRHAGE
    IMMOLATION
    INTERMENT
    KREATOR
    KORADES
    KORPIKLAANI
    LAY DOWN ROTTEN
    MELECHESH
    MERCILESS
    OLD
    RED HARVEST
    TAAKE
    THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER
    VADER
  • PAIN, SWALLOW THE SUN Confirmed For Germany's WITH FULL FORCE Festival

    Sweden's PAIN and Finland's SWALLOW THE SUN have been confirmed for this year's With Full Force festival, set to take place June 29 - July 1 at Flugplatz Roitzschjora in Löbnitz, Germany. The festival billing is now shaping up as follows (in alphabetical order):

    1349
    AMON AMARTH
    BAD MANNERS
    BARCODE
    BOLD
    BRUJERIA
    BY NIGHT
    CALIBAN
    CANNIBAL CORPSE
    CHILDREN OF BODOM
    CHIMAIRA
    CREMATORY
    DAGOBA
    DIE KASSIERER
    DROPKICK MURPHYS
    DRY KILL LOGIC
    EARTH CRISIS
    EKTOMORF
    FEAR MY THOUGHTS
    GORILLA BISCUITS
    HATEBREED
    KAMPFAR
    KNORKATOR
    KORN
    LAMB OF GOD
    LOUSY
    MANOS
    MAROON
    MAYHEM
    MISCONDUCT
    MOONSORROW
    NAGLFAR
    NEAERA
    ONE FINE DAY
    ONE MAN ARMY AND THE UNDEAD QUARTET
    PAIN
    PETER PAN SPEEDROCK
    PRO-PAIN
    ROTTEN SOUND
    SATYRICON
    SICK OF IT ALL
    SLAYER
    SMOLE BLOW
    SWALLOW THE SUN
    SWORN ENEMY
    THE BONES
    THE BUSINESS
    THE CREETINS
    TURISAS
    UNEARTH
    VENEREA
    VOLBEAT
    WALLS OF JERICHO
  • KING DIAMOND: New Album Release Dates Announced

    KING DIAMOND's new album, "Gimme Your Soul ... Please", will be released in North America on June 26 via Metal Blade Records. Massacre Records will issue the album in Germany on June 29.

    "Gimme Your Soul … Please" track listing:

    01. The Dead (King)
    02. Never Ending Hill (Andy)
    03. Is Anybody Here? (King)
    04. Black of Night (Andy)
    05. Mirror, Mirror (King)
    06. The Cellar (Andy)
    07. Pictures in Red (Andy)
    08. Gimme Your Soul (King)
    09. The Floating Head (Andy)
    10. Cold as Ice (King)
    11. Shapes of Black (King)
    12. The Girl in The Bloody Dress (King)
    13. Moving On (King)

    Revolver magazine recently reported that KING DIAMOND's new CD was inspired by a painting called "My Mother's Eyes" which the band's distributor in Denmark stumbled across while surfing the Net (and which Diamond has since bought for the new CD cover). The more Diamond looked at the image of a battered blond girl with blood covering her white dress, holding out palms affixed with protruding eyeballs, the more it captivated and inspired him. "I can feel the energy of the front cover in all the songs we wrote, and it will definitely affect my lyrics," he promised.

    Diamond wrote the music for the new album from December 2005 through February 2006, then recorded the basic tracks in his basement.

    "It classes over anything I've ever done," Diamond beamed. "The arrangements are more intricate, the production is better, and for the parts where there are violins, it sounds like we hired the Royal Philharmonic. As long as I don't fuck up the vocals, this should be our best record."

    KING DIAMOND in 2005 completed a U.S. tour with NILE,
    BEHEMOTH and THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER. A live CD, "Deadly Lullabyes Live", was issued in 2004.

    KING DIAMOND current lineup:

    King Diamond - Vocals
    Andy La Rocque - Guitar
    Mike Wead - Guitar
    Hal Patino - Bass
    Matt Thompson - Drums
  • TESTAMENT, CRADLE OF FILTH, WITHIN TEMPTATION, GRAVEWORM Confirmed For Earthshaker Fest

    TESTAMENT, CRADLE OF FILTH, GRAVEWORM, GOD DETHRONED and WITHIN TEMPTATION have been confirmed for this year's Earthshaker Fest, set to take place July 19-21 in Kreuth, Germany. The festival billing is shaping up as follows (in alphabetical order):

    BEATALLICA
    CRADLE OF FILTH
    DEW-SCENTED
    ELUVEITIE
    FEAR MY THOUGHTS
    FREEDOM CALL
    GAMMA RAY
    GOD DETHRONED
    GRAVEWORM
    HATESPHERE
    J.B.O.
    KEEP OF KALESSIN
    KORPIKLAANI
    KREATOR
    LEGION OF THE DAMNED
    MELECHESH
    MOTÖRHEAD
    MYSTIC PROPHECY
    NORTHER
    SEPULTURA
    TESTAMENT
    THRESHOLD
    U.D.O.
    UNLEASHED
    WITHIN TEMPTATION
  • GRAVE DIGGER Confirmed For Slovenia's METALCAMP Festival -

    German power metallers GRAVE DIGGER have been confirmed for the Metalcamp 2007 festival, set to take place July 16-21, 2007 in Tolmin, Slovenia. More than 80 bands will perform on two stages over the course of five days of live music. The festival billing is shaping up as follows (in alphabetical order):

    ABORTED
    AMON AMARTH
    ARS MORIENDI
    BLIND GUARDIAN
    DEW-SCENTED
    DIE APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER
    DISMEMBER
    DORO
    ENSIFERUM
    FULL BLOWN CHAOS
    GRAVE DIGGER
    GRAVEWORM
    HATEBREED
    IMMORTAL
    KORPIKLAANI
    MOTÖRHEAD
    NOCTIFERIA
    PROSPECT
    SADIST
    SARDONIC
    SEPULTURA
    SODOM
    THE VISION BLEAK
    THRESHOLD
    UNLEASHED
  • MEGADETH, TYPE O NEGATIVE, KOTIPELTO Confirmed For Finland's SAUNA OPEN AIR

    MEGADETH, TYPE O NEGATIVE and KOTIPELTO have been confirmed for the 2007 edition of the Sauna Open Air festival, set to take place June 7-9 in Tampere, Finland. The festival billing is shaping up as follows (in alphabetical order):

    ENTWINE
    HEAVEN AND HELL
    KORPIKLAANI
    KOTIPELTO
    KOTITEOLLISUUS
    LEVERAGE
    MEGADETH
    SABATON
    SONATA ARCTICA
    SWALLOW THE SUN
    THUNDERSTONE
    TYPE O NEGATIVE
    VIOLENT STORM
  • TESTAMENT: Russian Dates Announced

    Veteran San Francisco Bay Area metallers TESTAMENT have scheduled three dates in Russia in July. The details are as follows:

    Jul. 03 - Voronej, Russia - 100 Streams
    Jul. 04 - Saratov, Russia - Club Vostok
    Jul. 05 - Moscow, Russia - Apelsin Club

    TESTAMENT singer Chuck Billy, bassist Greg Christian, and guitarists Alex Skolnick and Eric Peterson, alongside ex-DIMMU BORGIR and CRADLE OF FILTH drummer Nick Barker, have finished writing six new songs for the group's long-awaited follow-up to 1999's "The Gathering". Tracking is scheduled to begin in June. "Working hard with Nick on some new ideas and some cool old-school styles [that are] coming together really killer," Peterson said in a statement. "It's been a long time coming," Billy added. "This new album is like a good wine: You throw in the grapes and crush."
  • UNEARTH The Chosen Ones For Aqua Teen Hunger Force

    Metal Blade Records artist UNEARTH have recorded the song "THE CHOSEN" for inclusion in the forthcoming Aqua Teen Hunger Force feature film, "Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie" Film for Theaters in theaters on 4/13/2007 and the accompanying soundtrack "Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie Film for Theaters Colon The Soundtrack" which will be in stores on 4/10/2007.

    "THE CHOSEN" can be heard in its entirety along with the movie trailer by visiting www.kingcolon.com or www.adultswim.com for access to The Aqua Teen Hunger Force movie site. UNEARTH will also be performing at the "Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie" Film for Theaters launch party on March 16th at the Fader Fort located at 204 E. 4th Street in Austin TX. Watch for advertisements on COMEDY CENTRAL's ADULT SWIM for details on how you can attend this event.

    www.metalblade.com
    http://www.unearth.tv
    www.myspace.com/unearth

    www.metalmaniacs.com
  • IN FLAMES, HELLOWEEN, ARMORED SAINT Featured On 'Bang Your Head!!!

    IN FLAMES, DEATH ANGEL, RAVEN, HELLOWEEN, JON OLIVA'S PAIN and ARMORED SAINT are among the bands featured on the "Bang Your Head!!! 2006" DVD, due in Europe on March 12. In addition to 34 songs that were filmed during last year's Bang Your Head!!! festival (which took place June 23-24, 2006 in Balingen, Germany), the two-disc set includes backstage movies, galleries and a special booklet. A two-and-a-half-minute trailer for the DVD can be viewed at YouTube.com.

    "Bang Your Head!!! 2006" DVD track listing:

    DVD 1:

    01. HELLFUELED - Born To Rock
    02. HELLFUELED - Midnight Lady
    03. HELLFUELED - Rock 'n' Roll
    04. COMMUNIC - Fooled By The Serpent
    05. LEATHERWOLF - Season Of The Witch
    06. LEATHERWOLF - The Calling
    07. FLOTSAM AND JETSAM - Escape From Within
    08. FLOTSAM AND JETSAM - Secret Square
    09. VENGEANCE - No Mercy
    10. RAVEN - Live At The Inferno
    11. RAVEN - Rock Until You Drop
    12. JON OLIVA'S PAIN - Time To Die
    13. DEATH ANGEL - Devil Incarnate
    14. HELLOWEEN - Future World
    15. FOREIGNER – Urgent
    16. FOREIGNER - Hot Blooded
    17. IN FLAMES - Come Clarity
    18. IN FLAMES - My Sweet Shadow

    DVD 2:

    01. POWERWOLF - Lucifer In Starlight
    02. ANVIL - Winged Assassins
    03. ANVIL - Forged In Fire
    04. ANVIL - Metal On Metal
    05. VICTORY - Chicks On Display
    06. COUNT RAVEN - Leaving The Warzone
    07. COUNT RAVEN - High On Infinity
    08. UNLEASHED – Winterland
    09. UNLEASHED - Into Glory Ride
    10. ARMORED SAINT - Tribal Dance
    11. ARMORED SAINT – Seducer
    12. Y&T - Midnight In Tokyo
    13. RIK EMMETT - Lay It On The Line
    14. RIK EMMETT - Head Case / 3 Clouds
    15. RIK EMMETT - Magic Power
    16. STRATOVARIUS - Phoenix
  • W:O:A 2007 confirmed bands!

    Here's a complete list of all bands confirmed for the W:O:A 2007 (new bands since the last newsletter are signed with a *):

    1349
    ALL THAT REMAINS *
    AMORPHIS
    BELPHEGOR
    BENEDICTUM
    THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER
    BLACK MAJESTY
    BLIND GUARDIAN
    BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE
    CANNIBAL CORPSE
    CHTHONIC - exclusivshow beim W:O:A 2007
    COMMUNIC
    DESTRUCTION - exclusive BEST OF SHOW
    DIE APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER
    DIMMU BORGIR - one and only Open Air Show in Germany 2007
    DIR EN GREY - einziges Metalfestival 2007
    DISILLUSION
    ENSLAVED
    FALCONER
    GRAVE DIGGER
    HAGGARD
    HEAVEN SHALL BURN
    ICED EARTH - exclusivshow in Wacken
    IMMORTAL - Reunion, one and only Open Air Show in Germany 2007
    IN FLAMES
    J.B.O.
    KAMPFAR
    LACUNA COIL
    LETZTE INSTANZ
    LORDI - one and only show in Germany
    MENDEED
    MOONSORROW
    MOONSPELL
    MUNICIPAL WASTE
    NAPALM DEATH
    NARZISS
    NEAERA
    NORTHER
    RAGE & Lingua Mortis Orchester
    SACRED REICH 20th anniversary
    SAMAEL
    SAXON - A Night To Remember
    SCHANDMAUL
    SODOM - "25 years anniversary" Show
    SONIC SYNDICATE
    THE SORROW
    STORMWARRIOR feat. Kai Hansen
    STRATOVARIUS - Only Open Air Show in Germany
    SWALLOW THE SUN
    THERION
    TYR
    UNHEILIG
    VADER
    THE VISION BLEAK
    VITAL REMAINS *
    VOLBEAT

    and many more!

    More infos about the bands: Billing / Bands 2007

    More infos: www.wacken.com
  • WE ARE I CREATE BUZZ WITH SIX-SONG EP AND ‘CONTROLLED CHAOS HYBRID ROCK’

    What was the last band that managed to successfully merge classic rock’s multi-layered sound with prog metal sonic exploration?

    Few have been so bold – but Boston’s We Are I are no average band.

    “Everybody in the band is a really great player,” explains guitarist Rich Chamberland. “It’s really diverse. Jay Staples (singer) is a freak – he’s very melodic, his voice has a Freddie Mercury-like quality to it. Keenan Wakem (bass) is amazing – his stage show is killer. New blood, Ralph Arsenault (drummer) has kicked the band up an extra notch."

    On the heels of their first release, ‘Off the Hook,’ the quartet has just unleashed a self-titled EP produced by Anthony J. Resta, who has worked with the likes of Collective Soul, Megadeth, Perry Farrell, and Elton John. "Listen to our music, it’s heavy but melodic, everybody sings. This is a four-part-harmony band. What you hear is what you get. We don’t ‘kind of pull it off.’ I like to think of us as a ‘hybrid band,’ not alternative. We fuse together a lot of influences. When you listen to the music, you’ve got Jay delivering rapid fire lyrics, with the band playing three over four time, so it’s like Tool but a little crazier – controlled chaos hybrid rock.”

    Soon after their formation, We Are I quickly made fans out of some of the most successful and renowned hard rock musicians, including Disturbed’s Dave Draiman (who says of the band, “Their CD jumped out at us - we heard something very unique, the caliber of musicianship is top notch”) and Godsmack’s Robbie Merrill (who is highly anticipating the group’s new release – "I just couldn't take their first album out of my CD player, I can't wait for the new stuff!").

    As a result of Draiman and Merrill’s support of the group – and prime opening spots for the likes of Disturbed, Lacuna Coil, Shinedown, and King’s X - record labels are beginning to buzz around We Are I. With even greater success on the horizon, it’s the band’s ability to pull through the rough times that has gotten them to where they are today.

    For more information, visit www.wearei.com and www.myspace.com/i
  • Herege composing new album

    The traditional heavy metal band HEREGE is composing the last songs for their new album, which lyrics will be about marking historical facts of 20th and 21st Century, following a chronological order, from the end of Second World War, passing through Cold War, Latin America dictatorships, untill the present, with themes about globalization and terrorism.

    About the lyrics Rodrigo Dantas comments: "This concern with the level of the thematic is decurrent of some lamentable things that we have seen lately in the Heavy Metal scene, many people having ridiculous attitudes, racists and homofobics, amongst other forms of intolerance and alienation that are reproducing there. To not be with the arms crossed ahead of this situation we decided to revive the Heavy Metal subversive spirit, which seems to be forgotten by most bands of the current scene."

    Some of the new songs were recently played live in II Bang Your Heads Festival, which featured the bands Herege, Whisper Divine and Dark Shadows.

    More informations about the process of composition of the full length are available in the band's website, which will be updated with a studio diary with informations about the whole process of recording untill its release. Check it at www.herege.com
  • Reanimator - thrashin' the neighborhood

    Founded in the suburbs of Montreal, this young quintet, in which the average age is of 19 years old, quickly made a name for themselves in their local metal scene. Inspired by the old school sound of 80s thrash and heavy metal, Reanimator's music will conquer both nostalgic thrashers and fans looking for something fresh and new. "Thrashin' The Neighborhood" counts 7 blazing thrash metal offerings that should please fans of Exodus, Kreator and Municipal Waste. MOSH!

    Mastered By Alan Douches (Mastodon, Shadows Fall)

    Listen to "Breathless Birth" here:

    www.myspace.com/reanimatorthrash

    www.myspace.com/galyrecords
  • GRAVE DIGGER confirmed for METAL CAMP!

    Dear friends of METAL!!!

    The Earth shakes and METAL CAMP trembles before the "furore Teutonicus". Yes, dear fans of uncompromising, crushing, axe-wielding, story telling heavy metal. The GRAVE DIGGER shall release their unstoppable powers of total heaviness and cause the HEAVY METAL BREAKDOWN in the soul of everyone who has ever worshipped this German legendary outfit.

    Spanning their legacy for over 25 years, GRAVE DIGGER will present their new opus, LIBERTY OR DEATH, on the stages of the METALCAMP festival. A whole week of ravaging, drinking, fighting... oops, this is more a description of the GRAVE DIGGER song themes, but it is not far from the truth of what the first ever metal week will be like.

    Are you prepared to take a stand for what you believe in with GRAVE DIGGER along your side? Be a part of the Scottish freedom wars with the undying hits such as Rebellion, Dark Of The Sun, Brave heart etc., visit the mysteries of Excalibur, see the glory and filth of the Crusades with Knights of the Cross or become a liberating unit when fighting for Liberty or Death. It almost seems that these 5 riders of Heavy Metal Apocalypse sing about fantastic themes, old stories ... well, they do, but their greatness lies not only in the fact, that these lyrical topics are more than actual in the darkened times we live in, but the awesome, raw yet melodic heavy metal (as it should be), without any clichés and with the mighty sense of unity will show the fans of METAL and METALCAMP what heavy metal is all about. And along the warriors such as BLIND GUARDIAN, MOTORHEAD, AMON AMARTH, IMMORTAL, UNLEASHED, DORO, SODOM and many more, expect GRAVE DIGGER to nail the coffin of the conservative medieval stereotypes which follow heavy metal.

    Behold, oh Metalcamp - the scythe of the Reaper swings upon thee...

    MOTORHEAD IMMORTAL BLIND GUARDIAN SEPULTURA HATEBREED AMON AMARTH GRAVE DIGGER EXPLOITED UNLEASHED DISMEMBER SODOM DORO ENSIFERUM KORPIKLAANI DEW-SCENTED THRESHOLD GRAVEWORM PROSPECT NOCTIFERIA ABORTED SADIST DIE APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER VREID CONVERGE DISILLUSION THE VISION BLEAK ARS MORIENDI ELUVEITIE ANIMOSITY EVENTIDE

    www.metalcamp.com
  • OPEN GRAVE RECORDS RELEASES SOUND CLIPS OF REMASTERED FEAST ETERNAL – PRISONS OF FLESH ALBUM ONLINE

    Open Grave Records has released :30 sound clips of each of the remastered tracks from Feast Eternal’s classic 2000 album, “Prisons of Flesh” on their website. The reissue hits the streets on April 3rd . In addition to the reissued material two brand new songs that are included on the reissue, “Serpents Proclaim” and “Rage of Angels”.

    Also announced is the title of Feast Eternal’s long awaited follow up album to, “Prisons of Flesh”. The title being, “With Fire” and is scheduled for a release in August of this year. The cover art has been posted as well.
  • DRUMMER TOM HUNTING REUNITES WITH EXODUS

    Guitarist Gary Holt checks in with this breaking news from the EXODUS camp!

    "I’d like to take a moment here and welcome back Tom Hunting to EXODUS' drum throne. It was always understood that when and if Tom was ever ready to resume his drumming duties for the band, his seat would be waiting. Paul [Bostaph] always knew this, and was the first to say it upon joining the band. Paul and Tom have always been good friends and we, as a band, cannot thank Paul enough for his services on Shovel Headed Kill Machine and all the subsequent tours he did to support that album. We had a great time and kicked many asses along the way. Paul has given this reunion his whole-hearted endorsement with no mixed blessings and is happy to see Tom back in the fold. Now, some band out there may just become the luckiest bunch of suckers in the world, because one hell of a drum is on the market! We wish Paul all the best, and he will always be a member of the extended EXODUS family.

    That having been said, we are so excited to have Tom back in the band he co-founded. He, other than the time spent out of the band, is the only drummer I’ve ever played with, and he & I have an unspoken language of metal that I am stoked to continue. We are hard at work on the new songs, and this shit is the best and heaviest music we’ve ever written. I’ve kept quiet until now - because everyone always brags about how great their new shit is - but this is no boast. This album will redefine thrash metal as we know it. We will be hitting the studio mid-May with Mr. Andy Sneap. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED."

    For more information on the history of EXODUS, visit: http://www.nuclearblastusa.com/bands/exodus.html

    Visit EXODUS online at www.EXODUSATTACK.com & www.myspace.com/EXODUS
May 1st, 2007
  • AJNA, BATTLE KOMMAND, DECIBEL AND METAL MANIACS PRESENT:

    Antichrist Vanguards East Coast Tour 2007

    ANGELCORPSE
    WATAIN
    NACHTMYSTIUM

    5/9 - Minneapolis, MN - Station 4
    5/10 - Chicago, IL - Empty Bottle
    5/11 - Cleveland, OH - Peabody's
    5/12 - Philadelphia, PA - The Northstar
    5/13 - Cambridge, MA - Middle East
    5/14 - New York, NY - BB King's
    5/16 - Springfield, VA - Jaxx
    5/17 - Winston-Salem, NC - Ziggy's
    5/18 - Atlanta, GA - Drunken Unicorn
    5/19 - Tampa, FL - Brass Mug
    5/20 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Culture Room

    Ticjet info, booking questions and other inquiries can be directed to: Booking@battlekommand.com. Advance tickets available from: www.enterthevault.com or via local ticket outlets.

    Metal Maniacs
  • DYING FETUS Announce European, Canadian Headlining Tours

    DYING FETUS has announced two headlining tours in support of their long-awaited new album War of Attrition.

    The first tour will see DYING FETUS on European soil for the first time in two years. The band will team up with labelmates SKINLESS as well as CATTLE DECAPITATION and WAR FROM A HARLOTS MOUTH for the War of Attrition European Tour 2007. This tour will kick-off on May 4 in Karlsruhe, Germany and make its way through Europe during the entire month of May.

    Immediately following, DYING FETUS will spend three weeks in June touring Canada. The Canadian dates will be DYING FETUS' first in North America since the bands wildly successful fall tour with CANNIBAL CORPSE and NECROPHAGIST. A listing of confirmed DYING FETUS tour dates can be found below with more to be announced soon.

    DYING FETUS have recently unveiled a brand new track off War of Attrition, Fate of the Condemned, exclusively via the band's official website: www.DyingFetus.com. War of Attrition is set for a March 6 (March 9/12 internationally) release date and is available for pre-order at Relapse.com now.

    For more information on DYING FETUS, please contact Betsey Cichoracki, Relapse Records Media Relations, at (610)734-1000 x106 or Betsey@Relapse.com. Updated DYING FETUS news / tour information will be made available via the Relapse Records website: www.RELAPSE.com, the DYING FETUS website: www.DYINGFETUS.com.

    DYING FETUS Tour Dates:

    ***All Dates from May 4 - May 26 w/ Skinless, Cattle Decapitation, War From a Harlots Mouth***

    May 4 Karlsruhe, Germany Substage (w/Dead To Fall, Through The Eyes Of The Dead, Ion Dissonance)
    May 5 Essen, Germany Turock (w/Dead To Fall, Through The Eyes Of The Dead, Ion Dissonance)
    May 6 Paris, France La Locomotive
    May 9 Bologna, Italy Estragon Club
    May 10 Munchen, Germany Feierwerk
    May 11 Wien, Austria Arena
    May 12 Milstattt, Austria Bergwerk
    May 13 Berlin, Germany K17
    May 14 Hamburg, Germany Markthalle
    May 16 Oslo, Norway Garage
    May 17 Copenhagen, Denmark Stengade 30
    May 18 Chemnitz, Germany AJZ
    May 19 Trier, Germany Exhaus (w/ Immolation, Krisin, Grave)
    May 20 Rotterdam, Netherlands Baroeg
    May 21 London, UK Underworld
    May 22 Dublin, Ireland Voodoo Lounge
    May 23 Manchester, UK Rockworld (w/ Red Chord)
    May 24 Southampton, UK Nexus
    May 25 Antwerpen, Belgium Hof Ter Loo (w/ Dead To Fall, Through the Eyes of the Dead, Ion Dissonance)
    May 26 Utrecht, Netherlands Tivoli (w/ Dead To Fall, Through the Eyes of the Dead, Ion Dissonance)

    ***All Dates from June 2 - 24 w/ Bloodshoteye, Covenance***

    June 2 Rimouski, QC La Coud?e du C?gep (w/ Atheretic)
    June 3 Quebec City, QC L'Imperial (w/ Atheretic)
    June 4 Ottawa, ON Maverick's
    June 5 Hamilton, ON Absinthe
    June 6 London, ON The Embassy
    June 7 Sherbrooke, ON Bar Le Magog (w/ Atheretic)
    June 8 Montreal, QC Club Soda (w/ Atheretic)
    June 9 Rouyn-Noranda, QC Petit Th?atre du vieux Noranda (w/ Atheretic)
    June 10 Toronto, ON FunHaus
    June 11 Windsor, ON Club 1214
    June 15 Winnipeg, MB The Zoo
    June 21 Calgary, AB The Warehouse
    June 23 Vancouver, BC The Balmoral
    June 24 Victoria, BC Lucky Bar

    Metal Maniacs
  • ESTRADASPHERE Announce North American Tour Dates

    Santa Cruz's unclassifiable and eclectic act ESTRADASPHERE, who released their debut album last fall for THE END RECORDS titled "Palace of Mirrors," are heading out on the road for a North American tour starting at the end of March.

    The confirmed dates are:

    ESTRADASPHERE tour dates:
    03/26/07 Mon @ The Phoenix Theater - Petaluma, CA (w/ Secret Chiefs 3)
    03/29/07 Thu @ Urban Lounge - Salt Lake City, UT
    03/30/07 Fri @ Larimer Lounge - Denver, CO
    03/31/07 Sat @ Trilogy Wine Bar - Boulder, CO
    04/02/07 Mon @ The Hurricane - Kansas City, MO
    04/03/07 Tue @ Double Door - Chicago, IL
    04/06/07 Fri @ Tranzac - Toronto, ON
    04/07/07 Sat @ Les Saints - Montreal, QC
    04/08/07 Sun @ The Middle East - Cambridge, MA
    04/09/07 Mon @ Tonic - New York, NY
    04/11/07 Wed @ World Cafe Live - Philadelphia, PA
    04/14/07 Sat @ The Earl - Atlanta, GA
    04/16/07 Mon @ Emo's - Austin, TX
    04/17/07 Tue @ Wreck Room - Ft. Worth, TX
    04/20/07 Fri @ The Knitting Factory - Hollywood, CA
    04/23/07 Mon @ The Attic - Santa Cruz, CA

    More dates will be be added, so please keep checking back.

    Metal Maniacs
  • FALL OF SERENITY – About to write new album!

    German melodic death/thrash metal outfit FALL OF SERENITY have entered the rehearsal room to open their heads for a new bunch of lethal metal songs. 7 Songs are already on the map and songwriting is coming up well and pretty interesting. Singer John Gahlert comments:

    "After an exciting year 2006 with about 60 shows, we are more than ready to put all our energy and passion into the new songs. We restructured and
    improved our line up and welcome Ferdinand to the team. He is a guitar maniac and will help us to bring the new tunes to a higher level. The new album will without a doubt be another big step in our musical development and we promise you nothing but a blast! The new stuff is more of everything, it´s more groove, more power, more thrash and of course a lot more headbanging metal, haha. We can´t wait to tape that! So we decided to play just a couple of exclusive shows before we enter good old Rape Of Harmonies studio (Heaven Shall Burn, Burning Skies, Misery Speaks, etc) in June to calibrate ourselves for the recordings. Check out the dates and party with us!"

    FALL OF SERENITY

    FALL OF SERENITY live:
    17.03.2007 Gardelegen @ LIW-Saal w/ Maroon
    13.04.2007 Leipzig @ Moritzbastei w/ Disillusion
    14.04.2007 Neustadt/Orla @ Wotufa w/ Crematory
    05.05.2007 De Haan (B) @ De Broedkasse
    16.-18.08.2007 Dinkelsbühl @ Summer Breeze Open Air
    18.08.2007 Ubstadt-Weiher @ Motoball-Arena Fest

    New band line-up:
    John Gahlert (vocals)
    Eddy Langner (guitars)
    Ferdinand Rewicki (guitars)
    Alex Fischer (bass)
    Lutz Einenkel (drums)

    The band´s lastest album “Bloodred Salvation” was released May 2006 through Lifeforce Records worldwide.

    www.myspace.com/fallofserenity
  • CELLADOR, KRUCIBLE Confirmed For PROGPOWER USA SHOWCASE

    CELLADOR and KRUCIBLE (featuring singer Lance King, ex-PYRAMAZE) have been confirmed for the ProgPower USA Showcase, set to take place October 4 at Center Stage in Atlanta, Georgia. Also appearing on the bill are VANDEN PLAS and FREAK KITCHEN.

    ProgPower USA VIII will once again return to Atlanta's Center Stage Oct. 5-6, 2007. Tickets for the festival go on sale Saturday March 3 at 10:00 a.m. EST via all Ticketmaster outlets. Only 900 tickets will be made available to the public as advance gold badges are once again sold out. The final billing is as follows (in alphabetical order):

    AFTER FOREVER
    COMMUNIC
    FIREWIND
    PAGAN'S MIND
    PRIMAL FEAR
    RAINTIME
    REDEMPTION
    SONATA ARCTICA
    THRESHOLD
    VIRGIN STEELE

    ProgPower USA has garnered worldwide acclaim for not only the setting the standard for excellence in the U.S. underground metal scene, but for the rare moments over the years including the SAVATAGE reunion (disguised as WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION), CONCEPTION's reunion show, PAIN OF SALVATION's all request set, Rob Rock and Timo Kotipelto assisting EDGUY with AVANTASIA songs, EVERGREY's three-hour marathon (including choir and string quartet) and last year's all-star vocal ensemble performance of "Stars" led by Jorn Lande.
  • KING DIAMOND Guitarist To Begin Mixing Band's 'Killer' New Album

    KING DIAMOND guitarist Andy La Rocque will travel to Dallas, Texas on Monday, March 5 to begin mixing the group's new album, tentatively due in the fall.

    Commented Andy: "I dont know at this point when it is going to be released; I just know it's gonna be a killer album!"

    Revolver magazine recently reported that KING DIAMOND's new CD was inspired by a painting called "My Mother's Eyes" which the band's distributor in Denmark stumbled across while surfing the Net (and which Diamond has since bought for the new CD cover). The more Diamond looked at the image of a battered blond girl with blood covering her white dress, holding out palms affixed with protruding eyeballs, the more it captivated and inspired him. "I can feel the energy of the front cover in all the songs we wrote, and it will definitely affect my lyrics," he promised.

    Diamond wrote the music for the new album from December 2005 through February 2006, then recorded the basic tracks in his basement.

    "It classes over anything I've ever done," Diamond beamed. "The arrangements are more intricate, the production is better, and for the parts where there are violins, it sounds like we hired the Royal Philharmonic. As long as I don't fuck up the vocals, this should be our best record."

    KING DIAMOND's follow-up to 2003's "The Puppet Master" will contain 13 tracks (including an intro), five of which were written by the band's guitarist, Andy La Rocque.

    KING DIAMOND in 2005 completed a U.S. tour with NILE, BEHEMOTH and THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER. A live CD, "Deadly Lullabyes Live", was issued in 2004.

    KING DIAMOND current lineup:

    King Diamond - Vocals
    Andy La Rocque - Guitar
    Mike Wead - Guitar
    Hal Patino - Bass
    Matt Thompson - Drums
  • IRON MAIDEN Announces Stadium Show In Slovenia

    IRON MAIDEN has announced that it is coming to Slovenia to play a headline stadium show in June this summer.

    The show has been confirmed for Saturday, June 2 at the Bezigrad Stadium in Ljubjana.

    At the end of last year on their phenomenally successful "A Matter of Life and Death World Tour 2006", IRON MAIDEN played to over 350,000 fans at sold-out arena shows throughout Europe. It wasn't possible at the time to schedule a date in Slovenia, but as the band always enjoy playing there they have included this date as part of a short summer run of European stadium and festival appearances

    Tickets can be ordered from www.eventim.si or www.vstopnice.com

    Support at the Bezigrad Stadium show will be being confirmed shortly.
  • TESTAMENT, W.A.S.P. Confirmed For Holland's WALDROCK Festival

    TESTAMENT and W.A.S.P. have been confirmed for the Waldrock festival, set to take place July 7 in Burgum, in the north of Holland. Approximately 13 more bands will be confirmed soon.
  • New Band produced by Tommy and Chris Rehn of ANGTORIA
    SOREPTION Highly Technical Progressive Deathmetal

    http://www.myspace.com/soreption

    Swedish SOREPTION, founded in late 2005, is yet another young talented band in the Technical Deathmetal genre.

    Now you might ask yourself; how many technical deathmetal bands can the world handle?! The answer is simple. At least one more!

    When SOREPTION in their unique surgically razorsharp way brings you technically and artisticly advanced riffs topped with in your face brutal vocals you can do nothing but offer a bow, and a warning, to the older and more established guys in the genre.

    These twenty-year old guys perform their songs quickly, brutally and highly technical with musicality and finesse. A very unusual combination especially for a band as young as SOREPTION.

    Just as you thought no new band could turn up and blast the genre here's SOREPTION!

    SOREPTION is unsigned at the moment (probably not for long as labels now are approached)

    A four track EP is ready for release and samples are available from MySpace and SOREPTION's homepage

    The EP is recorded, mixed and produced at Sidelake Studios Sundsvall by Tommy and Chris Rehn from ANGTORIA (www.angtoria.com) for Virtual Symphony Productions. The artwork for their EP has been designed and created by Chris Rehn.
  • SVARTSYN signs with Carnal Records

    Legendary Swedish black metal band SVARTSYN have decided to sign a deal with Carnal Records for their 5th album. They are currently in the studio.

    We plan to release this fucker summer 2007.

    Check out our sites for more information:

    http://www.myspace.com/svartsynband
    http://www.myspace.com/carnalrecords
    http://www.carnalrecords.se
  • METALLICA Confirmed For Portugal's SUPER BOCK SUPER ROCK FESTIVAL

    METALLICA has been confirmed for the Super Bock Super Rock Festival on June 28 in Lisbon, Portugal. Currently confirmed "Sick Of The Studio '07" tour dates are as follows:

    Jun. 28 - Lisbon, Portugal - Super Bock Super Rock Festival
    Jul. 01 - Werchter, Belgium - Rock Werchter Festival
    Jul. 03 - Athens, Greece - Rockwave Festival
    Jul. 05 - Vienna, Austria - Rotundenplatz
    Jul. 10 - Oslo, Norway - Valle Hovin Stadion
    Jul. 12 - Stockholm, Sweden - Stadion
    Jul. 13 - Aarhus, Denmark - Vestereng
    Jul. 15 - Helsinki, Finland - Olympic Stadium
    Jul. 18 - Moscow, Russia - Lushniki Stadium

    METALLICA producer Rick Rubin told MTV.com two weeks ago that he wants the band to make a "defining" album when they enter the studio next month. Rubin admitted he was "really nervous" about working with the group after seeing the candid 2005 documentary about their near-breakup, "Metallica: Some Kind of Monster", but said that the band is now the opposite of how they appeared in the film. Rubin said, "They're really productive, really communicative — it seems like they really like being in the room together. It's a great process. They say they're more excited than they have been in a long time about making music...I asked them not to reinvent themselves so much as to make a defining album, like the purest of what METALLICA is."

    Drummer Lars Ulrich told Rolling Stone magazine that Rubin wants to make the band sound like "the METALLICA that made them METALLICA without going backward."

    METALLICA hopes to release its ninth studio effort by the end of the year or early next year.
  • SAMAEL sign with nuclear blast!

    Nuclear Blast is more than proud to announce that our latest signing is Swiss Metal experimentalists SAMAEL.

    In their almost 20 year long career, the legendary quartet has evolved from Black Metal to a unique form of Dark Metal, heavily infused with electronics and grooves. The band is currently mastering the follow-up to 2004`s "Reign Of Light", and the baby already has a name! SAMAEL´s eighth album is called "Solar Soul" and was recorded in Switzerland during fall 2006. Some song titles have also been revealed: 'Solar Soul', 'Promised Land', 'Slavocracy', 'Western Ground' and 'On The Rise'. The complete tracklist won´t be announced until the mastering process is completed. Charismatic vocalist Vorph is excited about the changes in the band camp: "We're thrilled to enter this new collaboration with an album we believe to be our greatest achievement to date. We know Nuclear Blast is providing a solid ground that will enable us to build something worth your attention. For us, it feels like the time is now!"

    "Solar Soul" is set to be released on June 15th 2007.
  • SONATA ARCTICA completes work on "unia"

    Finnish melodic metallers SONATA ARCTICA have completed work on their new album, "Unia" (Finnish for "Dreams"), due on May 25 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD was mixed at Finnvox studio in Helsinki and was mastered at the Cutting Room in Stockholm, in Sweden.
    The final installment of SONATA ARCTICA keyboardist Henkka Klingenberg´s studio report can be found at this location!
  • MEGADETH: 'United Abominations' Track Listing Revealed

    MEGADETH mainman Dave Mustaine has issued the following update via the band's official web site:

    "The tracklisting for the new album ['United Abominations'] is going to be 11 songs for the States (including 'A Tout Le Monde'), for Japan it is 12 (including 'Out on the Tiles').

    "It is very likely there will be bonus material from the future release 'The Making of United Abominations' (working title) included, which would be included on releases in these two territories, as well as special exclusive tracks for major dealers in the U.S. [This doesn't include drugs or arms dealers].

    The track listing, as of today, is:

    01. Sleepwalker
    02. Washington Is Next!
    03. Never Walk Alone
    04. United Abominations
    05. Gears Of War
    06. Blessed Are The Dead
    07. Play For Blood
    08. A Tout Le Monde (Set Me Free) (feat. Cristina Scabbia)
    09. Amerikhastan
    10. You're Dead
    11. Burnt Ice

    Japan Only
    12. Out On The Tiles (LED ZEPPELIN cover) (However this special track may appear in extraordinary circumstances)

    The B-sides for special editions are:
    13. Black Swan
    14. The Bodies Left Behind
    15. Special Live Track

    "This is all for now. We are greenlighted t