Metal News for January 14, 2014
Last updated on September 14, 2025 at 3:01 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.
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42 news articles posted on this day.
Serpent Skies Signs With Sliptrick Records
Sliptrick Records has issued the following announcement about inking a deal with Serpent Skies:
"Serpent Skies, the melodic death metal band from Gavle [Sweden] recently signed a 24 month licensing contract with Sliptrick Records, for the release of their upcoming album ‘A claim to reality,’ whose artwork will be soon revealed.
"Serpent Skies moves along the lines of Dissection, Amon Amarth, At The Gates and In Flames, taking dueling twin guitars and scream/growling vocals to a new step!"
You can also check out the band's music at the official Serpent Skies Facebook profile here.
Interview
Steve Tucker: "I'm 100% Proud To Play Death Metal"
Ex-Morbid Angel bassist/vocalist Steve Tucker is now ready to unleash his latest project on the world: Warfather!
The band's debut album "Orchestrating The Apocalypse" lands on January 21st/February 24th via Greyhaze Records, and Steve can't wait for the metalverse to get their collective hands on it.
"It’s death metal, plain and simple," he says. "I don’t want to make qualms about that, I’m 100% proud I play death metal, and that’s what Warfather is."
In a recent chat with us, Steve also discussed the other members making up the project, how the album artwork was created, and his most anticipated releases for 2014. Read the full interview below. More...
OpEd
Best Metal Newcomers Of 2013 Explored, Part 2
Each year in our annual metal awards we take a look at the best “newcomers” – those bands that released debut full-lengths worth your time.
To help get you acquainted with the best new talent releasing albums you may have missed, we’ll be looking at each of the bands nominated for the “best newcomer” category by our staff. Today, writer Rex_84 covers Vista Chino, The Resistance, Raven Lord, Skan, and Lord Dying. Here's what he had to say:
Thanks to Facebook and local venues, there was hardly a day that went by without receiving a flyer or like request on an unfamiliar band. Bands from around the globe injected new ideas into sounds we know well. In the end, however, my list mostly consists of new bands containing members from the artists I've gotten to know and love through my years as a heavy metal fan.
Vista Chino
Vista Chino rose from the ashes of Kyuss Lives when former Kyuss guitar Josh Homme and bassist Scott Reeder sued the band for "trademark infringement and consumer fraud." Although no longer containing the "Kyuss" in their name, Brant Bjork easily filled Josh Homme's shoes. Vista Chino's debut "Peace" is the fuzzy, desert rock album Kyuss fans have long for since the group disbanded nearly twenty years ago.
The Ocean To Tour With Scale The Summit
The Ocean will be returning to North America in 2014 for a co-headline run with Prosthetic Recording artist Scale the Summit and special guests The Atlas Moth and Silver Snakes, presented by Metal Sucks.
The tour kicks off on Wednesday, March 5th in Seattle and wraps up on Sunday, March 30th in Cambridge Mass., including two dates scheduled in Austin, TX for SXSW.
The Ocean's Robin Staps comments: "We're excited to return to the US with our first headline tour since 2008. A lot has happened in the meantime and the band is in a different place now, both musically as well as lineup-wise. We have played some bigger tours which came with a lot of compromises (short set, no production, rushed changeovers), so we are really happy that we're finally gonna be able to offer our Stateside fans and supporters a ‘full’ The Ocean set. We will be playing 'Pelagial' in its entirety most nights, the way it's been written and the way it's been meant to be performed live, as well as some 'Heliocentric', 'Anthropocentric' and 'Precambrian' tunes." More...
Dead Dreamers Bassist To Miss Tour Dates
Andy Blackford from Dead Dreamers has issued the following announcement about missing upcoming live shows:
"As you may or may not know the UK immigration agency has denied my entry to England twice now. Despite the fact that I have the exact same VISA documents as the other guys and the visa agency assured me I would be sweet getting in.
"For the sake of Dead Dreamers we have decided that I will not be joining the boys on the upcoming tours in Europe and the UK. Luckily with the current line up/equipment they're still capable of putting on a solid show without me.
"Make sure you support them on their upcoming tours across Europe and the UK. I look forward to meeting up with them again in May!" More...
The Sword Posts Lyric Video
The Sword has teamed up with Revolvermag.com to release a new lyric video for the track "The Hidden Masters."
Check out the clip, created by Kenneth Wilcox, in the player available below. The track comes off the band's latest album "Apocryphon" (reviewed here).
Goatwhore Recording Album
Goatwhore has confirmed that the band will be on the road in April as part of the Metal Alliance Tour 2014, supporting headliners Behemoth, along with other supporting acts 1349, Inquisition, and Black Crown Initiate. Get full details at this location.
In other news, Goatwhore has returned to Mana Recording studios this month with producer Erik Rutan to record a sixth full-length album. Fans can follow Goatwhore's progress via updates at Facebook here, which includes exclusive photos and videos.
Goatwhore's new album will be the follow up to the band's 2012 release, "Blood for the Master" (reviewed here).
Gamma Pulse Signs With Bullet Tooth
Bullet Tooth is excited to announce the worldwide signing of Gamma Pulse from Indianapolis, IN. The band is currently in the studio finishing up debut album "Dead But Dreaming" to be released on Bullet Tooth in 2014. Bullet Tooth also comments:
"Gamma Pulse is a 5 piece hardcore/electro powerhouse hailing from Indianapolis, IN and have refined their dynamic and versatile sound with an analytical approach. Spencer Steckler's beautiful melodic choruses make you feel every ounce of heartache and raw emotion from the captivating front man.
"The heartfelt lyrics are only the beginning of the band’s talent as the rest of the lineup rounds out the songs to create compelling and aggressive music. With Jordan Moody’s exhilarating drum beats, Jake Wire’s groovy bass lines, and the unique guitar riffs of Derek Belser, there is not an ounce of talent to miss. Electronics surround each track and give the listener something tasteful to enjoy. Gamma Pulse is known to many for their live show, which aims to involve the crowd and make each member of the audience feel entertained.
"Substream Magazine named Gamma Pulse a top favorite unsigned and upcoming band of 2013. The hype continued into this year as Bullet Tooth took Gamma Pulse under their wing and expects to see the band doing huge things in 2014."
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“Nearly all of us grew up listening to bands working with or a part of this label. It’s safe to say we are beyond ecstatic to be working with this team of awesome dudes!” said singer Spencer Steckler. “It’s a dream come true for each and every one of us.” Drummer Jordan Moody said, “I’m so stoked to be a part of the Bullet Tooth family. It gives me an erection just thinking about it.” More...
Aristeia Releases New Single
California outfit Aristeia has released a new single titled "The Malignant Spirit," which was produced by Elitist's Julian Rodriguez at Parallel Focus Studios.
The track can be heard below, and "The Malignant Spirit" is due to appear on an upcoming release from Aristeia later this year.
Sheer Terror Streaming Full "Kaos For Kristin" EP
New York Hardcore veteran outfit Sheer Terror has teamed up with Billboard.com to stream the band's new three-song EP "Kaos For Kristin" in its entirety.
Featuring three Sham 69 songs covered in Sheer Terror style, "Kaos For Kristin" can be heard below, courtesy of Billboard.com.
"Kaos For Kristin" dropped in December on Dead City Records as a benefit release, with all proceeds being donated to help alleviate the medical bills of the family and friends of Kristin Magee, who recently lost her battle with cancer.
Vocalist Paul Bearer told Billboard, "We take care of each other when we can, because if we don't, no one else will. We never really wanted to be part of the outside world, so it's up to us to treat each other a little bit better and take care of each other."
"Kaos For Kristin" can be purchased on vinyl 7" picture disc via the Dead City web-store at this location or on iTunes here. More...
Primitive Man Announces New Shows
Denver blackened sludge squad Primitive Man is plotting another round of roadside takeovers. Set to begin March 5th in Lawrence, Kansas, the band will move through a dozen cities, including several appearances at this year's edition of SXSW.
Featuring current and former members of Withered, Clinging To The Trees of A Forest Fire, Death of Self and Reproacher, Primitive Man continues to tour in support of latest long player, "Scorn."
3/05/2014 The Jackpot - Lawrence, KS
3/06/2014 The Conservatory - Oklahoma City, OK
3/07/2014 The Door - Dallas, TX
3/08/2014 Vino's Brew Pub - Little rock, AR
3/09/2014 Triple Six Klubhaus - New Orleans, LA
3/10/2014 White Swan - Houston, TX
3/11/2014 SXSW - Austin, TX [details TBA]
3/12/2014 SXSW - Austin, TX [details TBA]
3/13/2014 Tofu House - San Antonio, TX
3/14/2014 Sandboxxx - El Paso, TX
3/15/2014 Cat House - Albuquerque, NM More...
Encoffination Announces New Album
Following a three-year gap since the 2011-released "O' Hell, Shine in Thy Whited Sepulchres" LP, American death/doom duo Encoffination now confirms the next chapter in its discography, finalizing t third full-length opus for arrival in mid-2014.
Construction on the third Encoffination LP has been underway for a full year, recorded in various sessions throughout 2013 with the bulk of it taking place last Spring. The drums were recorded at Universal Sound in San Diego, California, and the rest at Graf Yairden in Atlanta. As the band members are well into the mixing stages of the final sessions, they proclaim the name of the impending hymnal, "III - Hear Me, O' Death (Sing Thou Wretched Choirs)."
"We have made a pained effort to make this record as monstrous and suffocating as possible. We want to pull the listener even further into the abyss we channeled with the first two records. A conscious effort has been made to lengthen the tracks, to envelop the listener in the drear we invoke as we create our sound" offers the band's strings and throat contributor, Ghoat. "The concept, as opposed to the last record's theme of death practices, of this record is the glorification of death: an offering to the embodiment of death's creation, and to sing the wretched hymns of death's omnipresence, to kneel to death's crown as we all shall fall under death's eventual grasp. There will be more of the texture presented on the last record: organs, samples, choirs, and more, all with the same acrid funereal doom we have become known for. If the last record were a tool to teach about death, this record is that creation."
A final release date, cover art, track listing and samples of the wretched recordings will be released in the coming weeks. At press time, several confirmed track titles include "Charnel Bowels of a Putrescent Earth," "Cemeteries of Purgation," "Crowned Icons," "Mould of Abandonment," "Rotting Immemorial," and "From His Holy Cup Drink; Come Death."
Stuntman Streaming Full New LP
Solar Flare Records is dispatching "Incorporate The Excess," the third LP from hardcore/grind terrorists, Stuntman.
Today you can stream the full LP in the player provided below, courtesy of Heavy Blog Is Heavy. The following press release was also issued:
"The band's rampant, noise-soaked, aggression is heavily reminiscent of turn-of-the-century pioneers Botch, Keelhaul, Deadguy, Unsane and Knut with a blistering grindcore delivery, amplified to the extreme on Incorporate The Excess, the nearly half-hour face-waster recorded and mixed by Amaury Sauvé at Studio La Senelle and mastered by Nick Zampiello and Rob Gonella at New Alliance East." More...
Indian Streaming Full Album Online
In celebration of its impending release next Tuesday, "From All Purity," the forthcoming new full-length from Chicago blackened doom misanthropes Indian, is now streaming online.
Get hopeless with the sounds of "From All Purity," now playing at Pitchfork.com here. The following press release was also issued about the album:
"Recorded at Electrical Audio and Soma Studios in Chicago with engineer/co-producer Sanford Parker (Minsk, Nachtmystium, Yob, Samothrace), the six-track From All Purity is the sound of the earth dying; a corrosive audio collage where tar-black doom unites with sprawling waves of noise to create a near suffocating sensation of hate, suffering, and imminent decay. The true antithesis of easy listening, From All Purity's earnest severity has reaped critical hails from media both stateside and abroad.
"This Sunday, Windy City residents are encourage to crash the official Indian listening party at iconic heavy metal burger mecca, Kuma's Corner, which will include the debut of an official Indian burger! In related news, the band will perform at this year's Roadburn gala with additional North American and European tour dates to be announced in the coming weeks. Stay tuned."
1/19/2014 Kuma's Corner - Chicago, IL * Listening Party + Burger Debut
4/12/2014 013 Venue - Tilburg, NL
Nechbeyth Announces Vinyl Release
Iron Bonehead Productions has announced January 27th as the release date for Nechbeyth's "Coerce Creed" 12" MLP. The label comments:
"One of the war metal's best-kept secrets, Singapore's Nechbeyth unload their most potent arsenal yet in Coerce Creed. The power-trio's first new recording in three years, this quick 'n' cruel 12" MLP exaggerates and then betters all the most violent and virulent aspects of their cult Blood.Axis.Domination debut: nuclear-powered battery, cacophonous decibel-wreckage, red-eyed oblivion, total BLACKOUT metal. Five different steps into the furnace, all sealing your fate - Nechbeyth stake a claim for supremacy with Coerce Creed. Strongly recommended for maniacs of Bestial Warlust, Goatpenis, Conqueror, '90s Impiety, and the Gods of War, Blasphemy."
The track listing is as follows:
1. Intro + KSMT Oath
2. Ruination Conquest
3. Eradication Vertex
4. Coerce Axiom
5. Lynch Directive + Outro More...
Exodus To Play Fear FestEvil
Metallica guitarist and horror aficionado Kirk Hammett has announced Kirk Von Hammett's FEAR FestEvil, a multifaceted horror and music festival to take place at San Francisco's Regency Ballroom on February 7th and February 8th, 2014.
The inaugural event will feature highlights of Hammett's world famous Crypt Collection (including some of the most valuable horror collectibles in the world) inside a former Masonic temple, an extensive array of panels, live music, vendors and special guests.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to wander through out the venue and experience various "haunting areas" for one of a kind scares, and will even be able to take a taxidermy class on-site. Single day and full weekend tickets are available here.
"This will be the most sinister, evil, over the top horror and music festival to date," said Kirk Hammett. "I'm excited to bring horror fanatics, music fans, and other freaks together under the same roof in my hometown and can't wait to unleash my own personal horror collection for display."
Confirmed guests to appear include Greg Nicotero (The Walking Dead), pioneering make-up artist and actor Tom Savini, legendary horror scribe John A. Russo (Night of the Living Dead), Anthrax co-founder Scott Ian, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame guitarist and horror enthusiast Slash, Heather Kangenkamp (Nightmare On Elm Street), Ron Chaney Jr., Bela Lugosi Jr. and Sara Karloff, actresses P.J.Soles, Barbara Crampton, Patty Mullen, and Erika Eleniak, original Godzilla actor Haruo Nakajima, original Ultraman Satoshi "Bin" Furuya, Academy Award winning make-up artist Joel Harlow, Kane Hodder aka Jason Vorhees, tattoo artist and TV personality Amy Nicoletto, and more to be announced.
FEAR FestEvil will also feature live music with performances by Exodus and Carcass on Friday, February 7th (Hammett will make an appearance with the legendary Bay Area thrashers) and Death Angel, Orchid, and Death Division on Saturday, February 8th.
Murmur Streaming Full New Album
Chicago's progressive black metal quartet Murmur is currently streaming the band's forthcoming album in its entirety. The self-titled album, Murmur's first for Season of Mist, can be heard at Cvlt Nation here.
"Murmur" will be released on Season of Mist's Underground Activist Division in North America on January 21st (January 17th worldwide). The track listing is as follows:
1. Water From Water
2. Bull Of Crete
3. Al-Malik
4. Recuerdos
5. Zeta II Reticuli
6. Zeta II Reticuli, pt 2
7. King In Yellow
8. When Blood Leaves More...
Crystal Eyes Announces New Album "Killer"
Swedish power metal act Crystal Eyes announced that the band's seventh full length album will be entitled "Killer." It will be the first album released through new label Massacre Records and is expected to drop this spring.
The band commented: "We're proud to announce that Crystal Eyes has signed a deal with Massacre Records. We're looking forward to continue the path of Heavy Metal together with this legendary label. Killer will be released later this spring and the cover artwork by Jan Yrlund can be viewed below. Mixing and mastering was done by Fredrik Nordström and Henrik Udd at Studio Fredman. Stay tuned for a new song."
The track list for "Killer" is:
1. Killer
2. Warrior
3. Hail The Fallen
4. Solar Mariner
5. Forgotten Realms
6. Spotlight Rebel
7. The Lord Of Chaos
8. Dreamers On Trial
9. Dogs On Holy Ground More...
Suicide Silence Releases "Unanswered" Video
Suicide Silence is set to release "Ending Is Beginning: The Mitch Lucker Memorial Show on CD / DVD / digipack on February 18th in North America and Europe on March 17th 2014.
A Blu-Ray / CD version will be exclusively sold at CM Distro and the band's merch store. Suicide Silence will be donating all of the royalties earned from this purchase to the Kenadee Lucker Education fund.
Get the first look at one of the songs performed live with Phil Bozeman from Whitechapel below.
On December 21st, 2012, the metal community came together in an amazing way to celebrate the life of Mitch Lucker & raise money for his daughter's future education with an unforgettable evening of collaborative performances between past/present Suicide Silence members and heavy vocalists.
Obliterations Signs With Southern Lord
Southern Lord is proud to announce the newest addition to the label's expansive roster in 2014: California punk henchmen, Obliterations. The deal was inked in blood, and the label also comments:
"Comprised of Stephen McBean on guitar, Austin Barber on bass, Sam James Velde on vocals and Flo Schanze on drums, Obliterations unites former and current members of Black Mountain, Saviours, Bluebird, Night Horse and Pink Mountaintops.
"The band came together in a mere two rehearsals in December 2012. McBean and Barber both individually relocated to Los Angeles, and continued to cross paths with friend Sam James Velde. The three had known each other for years continually intersecting over various tours. Discussing their similar music tastes reaching from the obvious hardcore and punk to obscure psych or even early '80s British shoegaze, the three decided to jam on a whim one Saturday after talking about the idea over beers at divvy watering hole.
"Two rehearsals later they had four songs completed; they recorded them quickly before their other respective bands left on Winter tours, without any real intent, yet the results were inspiring. Velde was introduced to Schanze through the folks in OFF!, in where they implied 'We have a good feeling about this guy.' Schanze visited Los Angeles with the intent to join a 'punk band,
jamming with Sam and Stephen on separate occasions. McBean auditioned Schanze for his alter ego side project Pink Mountaintops but instead jammed Void and Black Flag covers for three hours. The next thing they all knew they had the right fit for a new band which they dubbed Obliterations. More...
Revamp And Aborted Added To Bloodstock Lineup
The organizers of the Bloodstock Festival are excited to announce four more bands to the 2014 bill.
East Coast metal/hardcore legends Biohazard join the Ronnie James Dio stage line up. The band is hard at work on a brand new album due for release this year via Nuclear Blast Records. Band leader Billy Graziadei comments: "We've watched some awesome Bloodstock line-ups over the past few years and we're very psyched to be part of this one! See you in da pit!”
Fronted by current Nightwish vocalist, Floor Jansen, Revamp also steps up for a main stage slot. Floor successfully juggles her commitments to both bands and is taking Revamp on the road across the US this Spring with Iced Earth and Sabaton. About the Bloodstock slot, Floor comments “Revamp is thrilled to play at Bloodstock this summer! It’s a great festival with a strong metal heart in a metal-loving country for which we have nothing but great memories. We can't wait to rock the British crowd again!”
Ground-breaking Israeli progressive metallers, Orphaned Land also join the bill. “I could never imagine in my wildest imagination that an Israeli band would be followed by thousands of Muslim fans from around the world,” commented frontman Kobi Farhi, but that is exactly what has happened. The band’s album, "All Is One," is available now.
Belgian death metal outfit Aborted also picks up an early main stage slot at Catton Park. The band has just entered the studio to record new album, "The Necrotic Manifesto," which is due for release this summer via Century Media. This April the band head over to tour North America with Kataklysm, before returning to Europe for the summer festivals.
In This Moment Posts Live Video
With the release of the "Blood" special edition only a week away, In This Moment is now offering a taste of the two-disc set online. Watch "Beautiful Tragedy" from the bonus "Blood at the Orpheum" live DVD below.
The "Blood" special edition package is set for a January 21st, 2014 release in North America and includes a bonus cover of the Nine Inch Nails track "Closer" on the "Blood" CD, and a live DVD featuring a full 100-minute concert shot in Madison, WI, earlier this year, as well as behind the scenes footage and interviews.
In Europe, "Blood at the Orpheum" will be released February 17th as a limited edition standalone DVD, and digitally in an audio-only format. More...
Architects Streaming New Song
Architects has released a new song titled "Naysayer," which can be heard below. The track comes off "Lost Forever // Lost Together" due out March 10th (UK / EU) and March 11th (US). The album's track listing is as follows:
01. Gravedigger
02. Naysayer
03. Broken Cross
04. The Devil Is Near
05. Dead Man Talking
06. Red Hypergiant
07. C.A.N.C.E.R
08. Colony Collapse
09. Castles In The Air
10. Youth Is Wasted On The Young
11. The Distant Blue More...
Chase The Ace Splits With Guitarist
Chase The Ace has checked in with the following announcement about parting ways with the band's guitar player:
"We're sad to announce that Omer Swinger, our guitar player, and us are going in separate ways.
Omer has been a crucial part of Chase The Ace from the very beginning. He's an amazing guitarist, amazing person and his guitar solos will echo forever! We wish him all the luck in his new path and he will always be an honorary member of the Chase The Ace family."
Omer comments: "Hey guys!, I want to tell you it was a pleasure and a privilege being a guitarist at Chace The Ace. We've been through some amazing experiences that I'll never forget...
"I'm going in new directions so I wanna say thank you very much to all the fans for the supporting us, you all got a warm place in our hearts and I just wish that we continue to hear a lot of this band's great music which I grew up with and that raised ME!
"Huge thanks to Roy Vito Peleg, Yair Gadon, Yam Artzy. I had the great pleasure of playing alongside them and mainly because they were my brothers in the recent years and will forever stay like that! Love you all." More...
Testament Splits With Bassist Greg Christian
Testament announced the band has split with bassist Greg Christian. Sadus/Charred Walls of the Damned bassist Steve Di Giorgio will return to replace Christian.
The announcement reads:
“It is with much respect that we announce our mutual parting with bassist Greg Christian. Metal fretless bass pioneer Steve Di Giorgio will be returning to Testament. Steve previously was a member of Testament on The Gathering (1999) as well as First Strike Still Deadly (2001). He will be joining Testament on their upcoming shows in Australia on the Soundwave Festival, Japan and Mexico City. Steve will also be taking part in the new Testament album. We are looking forward to continuing the momentum you, the fans, have made possible.” More...
Vampillia Signs With Candlelight
Candlelight Records today announces the singing of Japanese experimental metal band Vampillia. The label comments:
"The Japanese metal scene is well known for its imaginative and often eccentric approach. It is rich and varied with new alternative and experimental bands appearing and collaborating often. Breaking through the crowds is Osaka-based 'brutal orchestra' Vampillia.
"Trying to put Vampillia into a neat genre box is almost impossible but when you factor in original band member Yoshikawa Toyohito is an ex-member of Japanese experimental noise rock collective Boredoms, you begin to get a sense of the sublime madness contained within Vampillia’s Candlelight Records debut 'Some Nightmares Take You Aurora Rainbow Darkness' which was produced and recorded by Ben Frost at Greenhouse studios, well-known as Bjork and Sigur Ros’s studio in Iceland. More...
Cynic Posts New Lyric Video
Cynic has premiered the title track from the forthcoming new album "Kindly Bent To Free Us" in the form of a lyric video. Check it out below, courtesy of Revolvermag.com.
The album was engineered by Jason Donaghy, mixed by R. Walt Vincent, and mastered by Maor Appelbaum. The artwork for "Kindly Bent to Free Us" is by long-time Cynic artist Robert Venosa and the album is scheduled for a North American release date on February 18th, 2014 (February 14 worldwide).
About the new material, drummer Sean Reinert said: "...It's a bold new sound for Cynic and marks a gigantic leap in the band's progression. We've had a lot of time to let this material develop and gestate, and it finally feels ready to be unleashed on the world. I've been in trio mode with Malone and Masvidal flushing out a zillion and one details, and couldn't be happier about what's happening with these songs. They are truly alive!" More...
Gus G. Releases New Music Video
Firewind/Ozzy Osbourne guitar virtuoso Gus G. released a music video for the new track "My Will Be Done," which appears on his upcoming solo album "I Am the Fire." The album is set for release on March 18th via Century Media Records. The song features Candlemass vocalist Mats Leven (Krux/Jupiter Society/ex-Adagio/ex-Yngwie Malmsteen). The album's first commercial single will be for the title track (featuring Blake Allison of Devour the Day) and will drop as a digital single on February 25th.
Gus G. commented on the song and album: "I hope you all enjoy the first taste of things to come. 'My Will Be Done' is a cool rock track with a modern edge to it... Looking back, I can't believe all the great musicians that got on board for this album. Everybody brought in their unmistakable style and talent and they really lifted the songs! Check it out and enjoy the music!"
Gus handles all guitar, bass and keyboards on "I Am the Fire," and is joined by a roster of friends and guests that help bring his vision to fruition: drummers Jeff Friedl (A Perfect Circle/Puscifer/Devo) and Daniel Erlandsson (Arch Enemy), bassists David Ellefson (Megadeth), Billy Sheehan (Mr. Big/David Lee Roth) and Marty O'Brien (Tommy Lee/We Are The Fallen) and vocalists Mats Leven (Krux/Jupiter Society/ex-Adagio/ex-Yngwie Malmsteen), Blake Allison (Devour The Day), Michael Starr (Steel Panther), Alexia Rodriguez (Eyes Set To Kill), Tom S. Englund (Evergrey/Epysode), Jacob Bunton (Adler) and Jeff Scott Soto (Trans-Siberian Orchestra/ex-Journey/ex-Yngwie Malmsteen).
Check out "My Will Be Done":
Ringworm Details New Album "Hammer Of The Witch"
Cleveland's legendary kings of metallic hardcore Ringworm return with the Relapse debut "Hammer Of The Witch." The band worked on the record with Ben Schigel (Chimaira, Walls of Jericho) handling production duties at Spider Studios in Cleveland, OH. Thirteen songs of "fire-y rage" propelled by lead vocalist Human Furnace's wrathful fury, this is a record sure to satisfy metal heads and hardcore kids alike. Riffs and grooves collide on songs like "Psychic Vampires" and "Bleed" creating some of the most vicious hooks to get stuck in your brain in a long, long time.
The artwork for the album was designed by frontman Human Furnace. "Hammer of the Witch" is set to drop on March 18th in North America, March 17th for the UK/World and March 14th for Germany/Benelux/Finland. Preorders can be made via Relapse in CD, LP and digital formats at this location.
The track listing is:
1. Dawn of Decay
2. Bleed
3. Leave Your Skin at the Door
4. Exit Life
5. Psychic Vampire
6. King of Blood
7. I Recommend Amputation
8. Hammer of the Witch
9. We'll Always Have the End
10. One Of Us Is Going to Have to Die...
11. Vicious Circle of Life
12. Die Like a Pig
13. Height of Revelation More...
Excruciate 666 Promo For Album Posted
French black metal band Excruciate 666 posted the following notice to its Facebook page regarding a few shows it will be playing in France and Belgium:
"Hails !! Conquerors Tour 2014, a 3 gigs tour organized by Wolves of the Underground for bands Handful Of Hate + Excruciate 666 + Stahlsarg, will take place from Sat, 31st of January to Sun, 2nd of February in Belgium/Douai/Paris !
31/01 : BELGIUM (TBA)
01/02 : Péniche Igelrock, DOUAI
02/02 : Le Klub, PARIS
Handful Of Hate (IT) & Excruciate 666 will both celebrate their 20 years of existence! Stahlsarg(UK) will run its first show in France! WOTU is back @ Igelrock, one year after the last show there ... 3 reasons for not missing this ... SO BE FUCKIN' THERE !!! SEE YOU ALL !! SUPPORT !!!"
Excruciate 666 recently issued its second full-length album "Rites of Torturers," which was distributed via Sevared Records. The CD version came with a limited-edition slipcase, and the promo for that album is streaming below.
Kari Rueslåtten To Release 5th Solo Album
Kari Rueslåtten, founding member of the progressive doom metal band The 3rd and the Mortal, has announced a March 7, 2014 release date for "Time to Tell," her fifth solo album, and first in eight years, via Despotz Records. Time to Tell can be pre-ordered now online at this location.
"The composing has been done by me sitting at the piano singing," commented Rueslåtten. "No drum-beats or co-composers this time! I wanted to go back to the core of songwriting. If the verse and chorus works just accompanied by the piano - it will work with other arrangements in studio too.
"What really triggered me to start making music again were all the kind messages I got from fans around the world asking me when new music would surface. I am most humble and grateful to find that there are people out there who have followed my music since my early beginning, back in The 3rd and the Mortal-days, and through all my solo albums."
"Time to Tell" was recorded and produced at Øra Studio in Trondheim, Norway with Norwegian Grammy Award-winning producer Jostein Ansnes. The 11-track, all-acoustic album features guest musicians Jostein Ansnes (guitars), Rune Arnesen (drums), Trygve Brøske (piano and pump organ) and Eirik Øien (upright bass). More...
All Misery Posts New Video
Mexican deathcore band All Misery has just posted its new official video for the song "The Depth's Beast," a clip filmed and directed by Buried Design. Besides this track, you can also hear another new song titled "Endless" over on the band's soundcloud page. All Misery will be appearing with Obey The Brave at La Tumba in Monterrey on January 30th.
Beneath The Horror Posts Tour Dates
Mexican djentcore band Beneath The Horror has been confirmed as the supporting act for Epitaph recording artists Obey The Brave during their trapse of Mexico. Beneath The Horror will be playing at three of the four scheduled Mexican dates - all but the Monterrey one. Below the dates are posted.
Recently Beneath The Horror released its latest video, "Libres y Alzando la Voz," which is featured here. The video was shot and edited by Lunapsis Films.
Beneath The Horror w/Obey The Brave
Jan 31st Foro Alicia Mexico City
Feb 1st Steel Metal Bunker San Luis Potosi
Feb 2nd Fbolko Guadalajara
Flesh Engine Appearing At WOM VII
Warriors of Metal Fest has announced that Philadelphia thrashers Flesh Engine have been confirmed for the main stage of Warriors Of Metal Fest VII at O'Sheckys LIVE Bar & Grill in Columbus, Ohio on June 27th and 28th. Band manager and guitarist Dave Orkin states:
"It's an honor that we received the call from Datis asking us to come back in 2014, after playing the awesome Pre-Fest Showcase in 2013. This time, however, if everything is ready to go as we have been planning and Metal Gods willing, we will be doing a special pre-release show of our second upcoming full length CD "Purging Existence" at the Fest this summer.
We made lots of new fans and friends last year and we're eager to get back to them with something very special. So this is a great honor for us and we intend to show all our fans and friends in the Midwest a headbanging good time once again. Are you ready Columbus, Ohio? Here we come!"
"Reduce to Nothing," the lead single from "Purging Existence," can be heard below.
Aborted Fetus Streaming New Song
Russian death metal slam monsters Aborted Fetus have debuted a brand new track off their forthcoming album, "Private Judgement Day," with GunShyAssassin.com. The song, "Morning Inferno," can be blasted now at this location. The band's third full-length picks up right where 2010's "Fatal Dogmatic Damage" left off and is set for release on February 18th through Comatose Music.
Drawers Streaming New Single
New Noise Magazine has posted the exclusive world premiere of "Shadow Dancers," the first single off of the upcoming self-titled album from French stoner/doom metal outfit Drawers. Due out February 11th on Kaotoxin Records, Drawers was recorded live on tape in the studio.
Previously Drawers released a debut EP, "This is Oil," in 2008 through France’s Deadlight Entertainment, a debut full-length, "All Is One," in 2011 through Russia’s Slowburn Records, a split 7" EP with fellow French doom band Hangman’s Chair and a continuous tour through Europe sharing the stage with Red Fang, Kylesa, The Sword and many others.
The first collaboration with Kaotoxin will be the release of the band’s self-titled sophomore effort in early 2014. Check out "Shadow Dancers" at this location and below.
Dead Earth Politics Streams New Single
Austin, Texas heavies Dead Earth Politics have released the first track from their forthcoming EP unto the masses. The band's first recorded output since 2010's "The Weight of Poseidon, "Redneck Dragonslayer" is the new track that may be streamed below.
In other news, Dead Earth Politics has been invited to the official SXSW 2014 lineup. Date and times for their official and unofficial SXSW performances will be announced soon. For updates, stay tuned to Dead Earth Politics' website.
Automaton Confirmed For WOM VII Pre-Fest
The Warriors of Metal Fest has announced the confirmation of Cincinnati, Ohio's own premier steampunk power metal band Automaton for the Pre-Fest Showcase of the Warriors of Metal Fest VII to take place on Thursday, June 26th at O'Sheckys LIVE in Columbus, Ohio.
Automaton was personally introduced and endorsed by Lord Fang Von Wrathenstein of Wisconsin's Lords Of The Trident (WOM Fest III & IV Open Air) to fest organizer Datis Alaee during the Cincinnati stop of their "Plan of Attack" tour of the Midwest in July of 2013. Automaton will be the first steampunk themed metal band to grace the Warriors of Metal Fest's stage.
"Age of the Smokestacks," the lead single off the band's Look to the Skies EP, is now streaming below. Vocalist David J. Sugerman states:
"I can't thank everyone enough for the privilege to take the stage at Warriors of Metal Fest VII. We've heard so much about the camaraderie and energy of the WOM Fest family. Consider Automaton stoked to share our brand of high energy, folky, epic and downright foppish steampunk power metal with you. From the 80's. 1880's. We tip our hats to you, Warriors of Metal!"
Martyr Enters Studio, First Report Posted
Dutch metal act Martyr is currently in the studio and posted the first report on the recordings of the follow up to the 2011 release "Circle of 8" (see review here).
The report, posted on the band's Official website reads:
"2014 has started and in this year Martyr will record the follow up of the highly acclaimed 'Circle Of 8' album. With production wizard and former Horizon guitar player Jack Nobelen, the band checked in at the 'Temple Of Doom' studios in Belgium again.
"So how is it all coming along?
"Although we are incredibly happy with the songs we have written already first of all Martyr will start with a pre-production of 4 songs. To see if the new material and the arrangements are satisfactory and meet the band’s high standards. Pre-production will take place during January and February 2014.
"First of all, Wilfried laid down the drums pretty fast. Which gave Jeffrey the opportunity to work on his bass recordings. Unfortunately due to an injury on his hand some parts will be re-recorded later on. He had to go through some pain, but the result is still then even overwhelming. We are proud to have him in the Martyr family as newest member, doing such an amazing job!
"Rick already recorded some rhythm guitars so next up will be Marcel, Rop and lead guitars. The sound is just fantastic ! We’ve got a long way to go but things are moving along nicely and we are feeling really good about the material.
"So will this album be different than 'Circle Of 8'?
"We think we are in a continuous improvement of songwriting and still are developing ourselves. We are picking the best new songs for this album, maybe even some special guests again. It will be better, it twill be louder, it will be a Killer album!!
"But when will it make it’s way to your ears? If we are finished before the summer then we expect the album to come out late 2014 !! We will keep you updated! Thanks for supporting!" More...
Airborn Posts Guitar Video With Clip Of New Song
Italian power metal act Airborn posted a guitar playthrough video, which features vocalist/guitarist Alessio Perardi playing a snippet of the final portion of the new track "They Arise." The song will appear on the band's new release "Dark Future Rising," which is set to drop on February 28th via Remedy Records/Soulfood. The album was mastered by Iron Savior mainman Piet Sielck at Powerhouse.
The track listing for "Dark Future Rising" is:
1. They Arise
2. Mess We're In
3. Reign of the Human Race (see music video)
4. Sword of Justice
5. Nitehawk
6. King of Fear
7. Dark Future
8. Solar Messiah
9. Forces of Nature
10. Jack of All Trades
11. Bonecrusher
12. Wild and Free
13. Resurrection
Check out the video clip here: More...
Fantasy Opus Releases Teaser For New LP
Portuguese progressive/power act Fantasy Opus released a teaser clip of the band's upcoming new, yet untitled, sophomore album. The band has launched a crowdfunding campaign to help defray the costs of the album, which can be viewed at this location. The new release is the follow up to the 2009 debut "Beyond Eternity."
Fantasy Opus was formed in 1999 as Black Thunder and is a band that develops a musical style not only influenced by bands of the same genre like Gamma Ray, Angra, Rhpasody, Symphony X, Yngwie Malmsteen and Dream Theater, but also classical composers like Antonio Vivaldi and Niccolò Paganini, as well as soundtrack scores from Hollywood movies such as "Gladiator", "Braveheart" and "Lord of the Rings," among others.
Fantasy Opus' work, which background is carefully set in a heavy metal base both regarding sound as well as lyrical content, turns over as a fusion of several styles that surround the listener in Epic and melodic atmospheres where emotion and fantasy unite.
The new release will its central theme in the oceans as scenic background, with analogies and metaphors for themes like death, lust, love, conquest, vengeance, liberty, sacrifice, and the power of one.
Follow the band on Facebook and check out the teaser clip here: More...
Shear Announce New Album, Guest Appearances
Finnish metal/rock upcomers Shear have revealed the album artwork cover and title of the forthcoming sophomore release. "Katharsis" is set to drop via Lifeforce Records on March 24th in Europe and on April 1st in North America.
The artwork for the new effort was handled by Remko Tielemans, who is also known for his position as bass player in Textures. "Katharsis" was recorded Sound Supreme Studio, Mökkitie and 5by5 Studio (also mixed) between April-October 2013. Mastering was handled by Mika Jussila at Finnvox Studios. The album will feature a guest appearance by Stratovarious keyboardist Jens Johansson.
According to the press release: "the Finnish sextet impresses with a mature and beneficial designed sound, that is catchy and heavy at the same time. Just as important: Shear are playing authentic and honest music that is based on deep-seated emotions and a latent slope to great hymns. This is their 'Katharsis.' The chosen style is of subordinate importance for the effect of the perfectly balanced songs. Metal and rock come to fruition to create a Scandinavian heavy sound with a fresh approach and a convincing self-conception.
"Listening to 'Katharsis' you will fall in love with the charismatic voice of Alexa Leroux. But keep in mind: Shear is more than a female-fronted fairytale. Somewhere in between melodic metal, symphonic power and classical rock the Finns are heading for well-written and – simply – beautiful music with a unique charm." More...
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