Metal News for July 1, 2009
Last updated on October 4, 2025 at 3:07 AM ET
We post metal news every day, throughout the day, covering thousands of metal bands including underground and unsigned bands. You are currently browsing the news archive, but you can also find news by band.
30 news articles posted on this day.
Dawn of Desolation Gives Band Update
Frederick, Maryland death metal band Dawn of Desolation has announced their intent to change their name, that they've been recording two new demo tracks, and the departure of Collin on guitars. Here's the update from the band:
"Ladies and Gents, We would like to let everyone know of our recent whereabouts as well as our future plans.
We have been in and out recording a quick demo (2 tracks) for all to enjoy and plan to put that out for everyone to hear soon enough!
"Yes yes.... We are in the process of changing our name, as you may have read about, and plan to return very soon with a new found sound, name, vibe, and 'tude.
"Also, we'd like everyone to know that Colin will no longer be playing guitar in the group. we are experimenting with guitarist options right now and think that you will enjoy what we return with. See you soon!"
Chimaira Adjusts Russia/Belarus/Ukraine Tour Dates
Chimaira has adjusted their Russia/Belarus/Ukraine tour dates. The latest dates are now:
10.09 - St-Petersburg (Russia) “GlavClub”
11.09 - Moscow (Russia) “Tochka”
12.09 - Minsk (Belarus) “RClub”
13.09 - Kiev (Ukraine) “Bingo”
Skindred Reveals Release Date For New Album
Skindred has announced a September 1, 2009 street date for their upcoming new release, "Shark Bites and Dog Fights." The album was produced by Matt LaPlant (Sikth) at Bieler Bros. Studios in Pompano Beach, Florida.
The cover art for the record can be found here. More information as well as the first taste of the new material will be released soon.
In the meantime, Skindred fans can enjoy the previously reported free MP3 download of "Destroy The Dance Floor" here.
Shadows Fall Thanks Extras For Video Shoot
Shadows Fall has issued the following statement thanking their fans who worked as extras in their recent music video shoot:
"We just wanted to say thank you to all the extras that came out yesterday and were a part of the music video. Here is a group picture from the shoot. Thanks again for all your hard work."
Knife Posts New Music Video, "Fake Man," Online
Italian alternative metal band KNIFE has posted their latest music video for "Fake Man" online. You can check it out below and hear some more of their music on their MySpace page. More...
Empyrean Adds More Australian Tour Dates
Released in December 2008 through Prime Cuts Music, "QUIETUS," the debut album from this outstanding extreme symphonic metal sextet from Brisbane, has been met with positive reviews from press and fans alike. The band is backing it up with a national tour that is taking the band to Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney, Canberra, Sunshine Coast and Adelaide.
Here are the latest "Quietus" tour dates:
Fri, July 10: Bald Faced Stag, Sydney, NSW
with: Aeon of Horus, Bane Of Isidur, Alice Through The Windshield Glass
Sat, July 11: The Basement, Canberra, ACT
with: Aeon of Horus, Kill For Satan, Mytile Vey Lorth & Immorium
Fri, July 24: Rosies Live, Brisbane, QLD
Headlining METAL OF HONOUR with: In Malices Wake (VIC), Phalanx, Giger.
Sat, August 28: Sand's Tavern, Sunshine Coast, QLD
with: Archea, Violent Green & Sardonic Avulsion
Sat, September 19: AGAINST THE GRAIN 5 (Fowler's Live), Adelaide, SA.
with: Alchemist, The Amenta, Mournful Congregation, Alarum, Truth Corroded etc.
Dark Haven Begins Recording New Album
California progressive death metal band, Dark Haven, has issued the following update:
"We are finally recording our first full length album! It should feature around 12 tracks, and we expect to be done tracking around July 15th. We will still need to get the cd's pressed and ready to roll, but the ball is rolling. Thanks for waiting patiently, we promise it will be worth it!"
Project: Failing Flesh Issues Recording Update
Project: Failing Flesh vocalist Eric Forrest has issued the following announcement about the recording of their new album:
"Hello, how's it going? Well, it's going killer as usual down here in Virginia at Assembly Line Studios. Great to be back in the USA! Tracks have been going pretty fast, have three more to do and managed a photo shoot today with photographer named Brian Bridgewater.... P:FF #3?? Fans of the first two albums will not be disappointed. It's a little different in some parts, but still has the P:FF signature in my opinion... check it out when released, enjoy!... more soon."
Zakk Wylde To Appear On TV Show, "Bones"
Black Label Society frontman and Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Zakk Wylde has reportedly just finished filming a role in the television series, "Bones." Although no further details are available, the episode will be part of the fifth season which will begin airing later this year.
Headline News
Thin Lizzy Guitarist/Vocalist John Sykes Quits
John Sykes, the guitarist and vocalist for rock legends Thin Lizzy has reportedly left the band for reasons unknown at this point. As a result, all of Thin Lizzy's shows for this year have been cancelled. A message from guitarist Scott Gorham reads:
"Its been a very tough time of late for the band and myself, firstly with drummer Tommy Aldridge’s injury and now the subsequent decision for John and the rest of the group to go their separate ways. I can only apologize to everyone who has supported us over the years, but we will be back up to full speed soon."
Onslaught To Support Testament In The U.K.
British thrash metal veterans Onslaught has confirmed that they will be opening for Bay Area legends Testament when they tour the United Kingdom later this year. A message from guitar player Nige Rockett reads as follows:
"We're holed up in our studio working on the new album tracks, so I'm not getting to see much of it, but which ever way I look at it, its a fucking lovely day for creating aggressively heavy thrash metal. Anyway, we are stoked to announce we have been added to at least three shows on the upcoming TESTAMENT UK tour.
Confirmed dates as follows:
July 22 - Newcastle, UK - 02 Academy
July 23 - Bristol, UK - 02 Academy
July 25 - Wolverhampton, UK - Wulfren Hall
"It'll be cool to catch up with the Testament guys once again and play our first hometown show for almost four years... especially at the O2 Academy, as its the only venue we have never destroyed in Bristol."
Slayer Reveals New Song Titles
American thrash metal legends Slayer have revealed some more song titles from their forthcoming new studio album, "World Painted Blood" which is set to be released at the end of summer. Some of the new song titles include, "Americon," "Unit 731," "Psycopathy Red," "Beauty Through Order," "Playing With Dolls," "Public Display Of Dismemberbent" and the title track. Stay tuned for more details on the album coming soon.
Megadeth To Offer Free Song For One Day Only
Megadeth will be offering the new track "Headcrusher" as a free download for 24 hours only on July 7th starting at 11:00AM EDT. The song will be available at this location.
Video Interview With Municipal Waste Posted Online
BrooklynRocks has posted a new video interview with bassist Philip "Land Phil" Hall and Drummer Dave Witte of Municipal Waste. The video can be viewed below. More...
Skindred Posts a Song for Free Download
UK metal band, Skindred, has posted a new song online for free download. The song, entitled "Destroy The Dance Floor," can be found here.
All That Remains Drummer To Miss Rockstar Tour
All That Remains has issued the following announcement about drummer Jason Costa sitting out the Rockstar Mayhem tour:
"All That Remains drummer Jason Costa broke his hand last week and as a result will not be able to play on the upcoming Rockstar Mayhem Festival Tour which kicks off on July 10th. ATR will honor their commitment to the tour with temporary replacement drummer Tony Laureano behind the kit. Laureano, best known for his work with bands Dimmu Borgir and Nile, will be sure to keep ATR’s set fast and furious!"
Cradle Of Filth To Release New Book
Cradle of Filth has issued the following announcement about releasing a book titled the "Gospel of Filth:"
"The Gospel Of Filth, The Definitive Guide to the Realms of Darkness and Devilry. The Gospel of Filth is the boldest, most comprehensive and authoritative guide to the realms of darkness and devilry ever published. Taking in every significant milestone and major landmark, this lavishly illustrated volume will prove to be the definitive guide to the dark side for decades to come. From ancient formulae for conjuring the goddesses of hell, to the latest research on the psychopathology of serial murder, no tombstone remains unturned in this wide-ranging and witty dissection of the uncanny and unholy, of the esoteric and erotic. Music forms The Gospel's entry point, but every medium, from movies and literature, to comics and computer games is considered, while the authorities consulted range from Oxford academics to metal musicians as well known for their criminal records as musical ones. Details to order The Gospel Of Filth coming soon!!
"A 'Bible' style Signed and Numbered Special Edition. IMPORTANT NOTICE?T this 'Bible' style Signed and Numbered Special Edition will be available to buy as a PRE-ORDER ITEM ONLY. Act fast once this book goes on sale. We will shortly announce a CUT-OFF DATE after which it will not be possible to order this special edition. The cut-off date will be strictly enforced."
Unleashed Cancels Unholy Fest Appearance
Unleashed has issued the following announcement about canceling their appearance at the Unholy Fest:
"World Management and Unleashed would like to announce that unfortunately the July 24th, 2009 appearance of the band at Unholy Fest in Ostrava, Czech Republic had to be canceled due to contractual problems with the Festival."
Voivod Announces "Infini" Art Contest
Voivod released their last album "Infini" on June 23rd via Relapse Records. The band is currently running a new contest for fans who want to create their own version of the Infini artwork. Voivod issued the following statement about the contest:
"Create your own rendition of the 'Infini' art and win killer VOIVOD Prizes. Check out out the Direct Metal Music sponsored contest judged by Voivod member/artist Away himself!"
There will be a total of three winners with the following prizes:
Grand Prize Winner:
Voivod Infini Shirt (black or grey) + Voivod Infini CD + Personal message from Away
Runner Ups:
Voivod Infini CD + Personal message from Away
Evile Discusses Working with Producer Russ Russel
British thrashers EVILE are preparing to release their new studio album, "INFECTED NATIONS" on September 21st in Europe and September 22nd in the USA.
The band recorded INFECTED NATIONS with producer RUSS RUSSELL (NAPALM DEATH), and EVILE lead guitarist OL DRAKE talks about what it was like working with RUSS:
"We met Russ a year or two ago at a gig in London. He expressed his fondness for the band and said he'd like to work with us. Years later when it came to picking a producer, Russ instantly came to mind."
"After many e-mails, I was really chuffed we were going with Russ. He really puts his heart into his projects. He'll stay up into the middle of the night if he wants to, if it'll get a result he wants." More...
Clutch Posts New eCard with Studio Footage
Clutch recently posted a new eCard with studio footage online. It contains a behind the scenes look at the making of "Strange Cousins From The West," due out July 14th on Weathermaker Music.
Augury Streaming New Song Online
Canada's Augury has issued the following announcement about an album release party and streaming a new song online:
"Hail to all!!!
"We are proud to announce our official album release party for 'Fragmentary Evidence' on August 15th 2009 at Montreal's Club Soda. Then we will play along great bands such as Vengeful (launching their album "The omnipresent curse" that evening as well), Obtenebris, Clearwater Deathblow and Salvation. All metalheads are welcome to this long awaited event.
"To give you another taste of our new album, we have added another song on our Myspace site. A rediscovery for some, we opted for the track 'Faith Puppeteers', a longtime mainstay in our live performances, featuring vocals from Youri Raymond (Unhuman, Cryptopsy). For the happy people in Montreal, there will be a listening party at Café Chaos on July 16th!
"And, final surprise to the patient ones, copies of our first album 'Concealed' will be available through the band here.
"Also, due to the amount of questions and requests, Augury members will make themselves available for musical clinics and private lessons during the upcoming tours. Suffice to reserve your spot by e-mail (info@augurymetal.com) in advance and a schedule will be established to accomodate anyone willing to learn a few of our secrets... we'll keep you posted!!!"
Luctus' Hydra Post Two New Songs Online
Female fronted black metal band Luctus' Hydra has posted two new songs online. The tracks "Hydra - Winds of Death" and a demo version of "The Revenge of the Hydra" can be heard on the band's MySpace page.
Immortal Posts Tuska Open Air Live Video Clips
Several fan filmed video clips have been posted online of Immortal performing at the Tuska Open Air Festival in Helsinki, Finland. The videos can be viewed below. Immortal is also scheduled to release their new album "All Shall Fall" on September 25, 2009 through Nuclear Blast Records. More...
New Insomnium Album Ready, Announces Festivals
Insomnium will play three summer festival shows this year:
Jul. 18 Joensuu, FI - Ilosaariroc
Aug. 8 Kotka, FI - Dark River
Aug. 14 Derby, UK - Bloodstock Open Air
The band comments: "So we will share the stage with such acts as Obituary, Arch Enemy, Carcass and Katatonia. Get your tickets in time and enter the pit!
"The new album is ready and shall be released early in the autumn. More details coming very soon. Watch out."
Evemaster Issues Album Update
Tomi Mykkänen, guitarist of Finnish metallers Evemaster, has issued the following album update:
"Just to drop you a line that new webisode of the studio diary has been released. Check it in here:
· YouTube
· Facebook
"That includes the guitar recording at Barrow Studios and guitar reamping at Drop Hammer Studios.
"All the synths have been recorded as well already. We decided to add a few more vocal lines and then I'll send the stuff to Dan to be mixed and mastered. Can't wait to hear the first mixes!"
Every Time I Die Parts Ways With Drummer
Every Time I Die has issued the following statement about parting ways with their drummer:
"After 11 years of being involved with this band, Mike 'Ratboy' Novak has indeed decided to quit Every Time I Die. Yesterday morning we received text messages that he wasn't going to continue anymore. 15 years ago, when someone left their band, they would get drunk, fight their friends, and we'd learn about it from Kurt Loder at 10 minutes before the hour. Today it's in a text messages and you guys find out on a messageboard. To be honest, it was something we have seen coming for some time now, but were uncertain as to exactly when or how it was going to happen because, as everyone who has ever met him knows, his communication skills leave much to be desired. That being said, he simply didn't feel the need to talk to us about any problem he was having or discomfort he was experiencing with any situation in particular.
"For the past year it has felt like we were playing with a drum machine or a pre recorded backing track. He completely shut off communication with us, contributing only to the band when onstage and opting to take no part in any social activity while on tour or to be present for the filming of our upcoming DVD. Whatever his reasons were, he simply was not a part of us anymore mentally or emotionally.
"So now, us at Every Time I Die are confronted with a small hurdle which we will no doubt jump in order to become a new version of the killing machine we've always been. The person that fills the vacant shoes Ratboy left is going to be more hungry and more intense and bring a renewed energy to the stage, not simply be able learn the songs and repeat them for a half hour every night. Someone that doesn't take being in a band for granted and wants to destroy everyone and every thing sonically. Someone that can appreciate the amazing people we surround ourselves with and the opportunities we've been given. With our new record 'The New Junk Aesthetic' on the verge of blowing the earth a huge gaping asshole, we couldn't be happier that our insecurities and personal conflicts are in the past. and if you dont believe us, just check out our myspace 'mood.' cannot wait to see you all again."
Children of Bodom Bassist Checks In
Children of Bodom bassist, Henkka T. Blacksmith, has posted the following blog on the band's web site:
"In the beginning of the summer we went to Janne's [keyboards] small studio and recorded a couple of new cover songs for the forthcoming cover album. The songs turned out really good. Especially the slower song, that seemed to be a little hard to arrange.
"Then we kept on doing the festivals, as planned. Provinssirock, was good, even though we played soooo late. 'I hate these finnish mosquitos!,' as our german friend used to say.
"Then we went to hot Spain. Zaragoza city is beautiful, but it was very windy. Again we played very late, and the wind just kept getting stronger. We had to really choose our steps carefully on stage, in order not be blown down by that wind. It was surreal. But it was good to be in Spain again, after a couple of years break.
"Today we came back from Belgium. Graspop is known to be one of the best metal festivals in the world, and again it truly was nice. Sunday was sort a reunion feeling, when Lamb Of God and God Forbid was playing too. And Suicidal. Saturday we managed to get to the festival in time to see Journey. We played on sunday, and the tent was really hot. But the crowd was amazing. Best Graspop show ever for us.
"On friday we played Sweden, Gothenburg. Municipal Waste guys were hanging out, as did some of the In Flames guys too. It was good to have beers with friends from past tours. Show was our best show ever played in Sweden, in my opinion. And I fell in love with summer- Gothenburg."
Children of Bodom will be touring the Americas this fall. Dates are as follows: More...
Theatre Of Tragedy Reveals New Album Tracklisting
Theatre of Tragedy has issued the following announcement about completing the recording of their upcoming album:
"The album is finally completely done. Mastring went great and Mr. Engelmann did a marvelous job. We can now make official the final running order for the upcoming 'Forever is the World' album:
01. Hide and Seek
02. A Nine Days Wonder
03. Revolution
04. Transition
05. Hollow
06. Astray
07. Frozen
08. Illusions
09. Deadland
10. Forever is the World
"The album will be available in three different versions. An limited digipak with one bonus song, a very limited double vinyl version with two bonustracks(one exclusive only for vinyl edition!) and finally a regular jewelcase. Album cover is almost done and will be announced shortly. August 1st should see the premiere of the first sound clip. Stay tuned!"
Suspyre Reveals New Line-up
New Jersey's Suspyre announced the full line-up prepared for their ProgPower USA showcase debut performance. After the departure of co-founder/guitarist Rich Skibinsky in January, there was some speculation that the band would not be ready to perform on September 10th at the ProgPower USA festival showcase.
Suspyre will be joined by Sam Bhoot on bass guitar, and current band member Andrew Distabile will be performing on guitar. Suspyre also includes Clay Barton (vocals), Gabe Marshall (drums), Gregg Rossetti (guitars/saxophone), and April Sese (keyboards)
“Since my main instrument is guitar, it seemed like the natural thing to do to now play guitar for Suspyre, and find a replacement bassist. I learned bass just to join Suspyre in 2006,” says Andrew Distabile.
Suspyre will also be performing on Sunday, July 26th during the Art of Prog VIII series at the North Star Bar in Philadelphia, and Friday, August 21st at Bar East in New York City.
Suspyre released their third album, "When Time Fades…" on September 30, 2008 through Sensory Records. The band recently performed at ProgPower Europe festival in October 2008. They are now booking for 2010 festivals and tours.
Navigate forward or backward through each day of news below: