Metal News for November 26, 2007
Last updated on October 6, 2025 at 2:37 AM ET
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Hot Topics
- Enthroned To Release New Album In December
- Potato Premiere New Single & Music Video "YUGE PP"
- Kreator To Release New Album In January
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- Carcosa (AngelMaker) Premiere New Single & Video
- Stellar Circuits Premiere New Single & Music Video
- Agnostic Front Premiere New Single & Lyric Video
- Omnium Gatherum Drops "Walking Ghost Phase" Video
- Tailgunner Signs With Napalm Records
- Messa Shares New Music Video "Reveal"
63 news articles posted on this day.
Psyopus, Fuck The Facts Team Up For Canadian Tour
PSYOPUS will hit the road in early January for a string of dates. The following is the tentative routing:
PSYOPUS, FUCK THE FACTS:
January 11 - St Catherines, Ontario
January 12 - Windsor, Ontario
January 13 - Hamilton, Ontario
January 14 - Peterborough, Ontario
January 15 - Ottawa, Ontario
January 16 - Montreal, Quebec
January 17 - Quebec City, Quebec
PSYOPUS:
January 18 - Portland, Maine
January 19 - Burlington, Vermont
January 20 - Springs/Poughkeepsie/Albany, New York
Deluzion Release 'Alive & Wrecking' EP
Dutch metallers DELUZION have just released a live EP entitled "Alive & Wrecking". Recorded earlier this year, the three-song effort is said to be "a sneak preview" of the band's debut full-length, tentatively titled "The Placebo Effect", which is scheduled for a spring 2008 release.
DELUZION had a successful year sharing the stage with the likes of TESTAMENT, GENITORTURERS and ONE MAN ARMY AND THE UNDEAD QUARTET.
The follow up to the 2004 EP "Fractured Dimension", "The Placebo Effect" will contain "around twelve killer melodic death/thrash songs," according to a press release. More...
Semnai Release New Demo EP For Free Download
Finnish metallers SEMNAI (formerly ARBOR VITAE) have released a new four-track demo EP, entitled "The Lotus Effect". The follow-up to last year's "The Plague" can be downloaded for free from the band's official web site.
"The Lotus Effect" was recorded mixed and mastered in October 2007 by Sami "Hannu" Koivisto at Biotech Audio Solutions in Vaasa, Finland.
"The Lotus Effect" track listing:
01. Mirror Shield
02. All Left Alone
03. Banished Night
04. Release And Be Free More...
Abysmal Dawn Offers Recording Update
Vocalist/guitarist Charles Elliott of the Los Angeles-based extreme metal band ABYSMAL DAWN has issued the following update on the progress of the recording sessions for the group's sophomore release:
"Just a quick update to let everyone know that things have been coming along quite nicely with the recording of our second record. We recently finished tracking all the guitars, bass and drums at John Haddad's (Eyes of Fire, Intronaut) new studio in Corona, CA and it's sounding amazing so far! Some rough mixing has already begun and the tracks already sound better than "From Ashes!"
"Vocals should be recorded in about a month's time at which point we'll start shopping the material for a new label and start playing some more shows again. We filmed a ton of footage while we were recording and we hope to have some of it up for you to check out soon."
ABYSMAL DAWN recently parted ways former label Crash Music Inc. The group's debut album, "From Ashes," was released in April 2006. It was engineered, mixed and mastered by John Haddad at Shiva Industries. The band toured in support of that album last fall alongside SIX FEET UNDER, KRISIUN and DECAPITATED. ABYSMAL DAWN has also played with reunited black metal legends EMPEROR and IMMORTAL.
All Shall Perish To Embark on Australian Tour
ALL SHALL PERISH will embark on a Australian Headlining tour this Christmas season, dubbed the Christmas Carnage Tour, wrapping up their non-stop touring cycle for the “Price of Existence.” Support will come from Australia’s own DEEZ NUTS and I KILLED THE PROM QUEEN. The band commented:
"An entire continent with California weather and women....at fucking Christmas time?! What a way to end the ride of a lifetime that this last year and a half has been. This will be the last tour until we record our new record and we couldn't be happier! Not a lot of bands in our genre get to tour the land down under and we feel very privileged to be able to make it out there. Australian people are the most chill individuals on the planet, and we can’t wait to fuck their shit up and chill with DEEZ NUTS and I KILLED THE PROM QUEEN!"
Here are the latest tour dates:
16.12.2007 Adelaide, The Underground
18.12.2007 Brisbane, Club Phoenix
19.12.2007 University of Sydney, Hermann's Bar
20.12.2007 Gosford, Gosford Youth Arts Warehouse
21.12.2007 Melbourne, Metro
22.12.2007 Camberwell, Camberwell Civic Centre
ALL SHALL PERISH is featured in "an addictive Guitar Hero-esque" online game.
ALL SHALL PERISH's latest CD, "The Price of Existence", which came out in August 2006, marked the debut of new lead singer Hernan "Eddie" Hermida and new lead guitarist Chris Storey. The album was engineered by Zack Ohren (LIGHT THIS CITY, EMBRACE THE END) at Castle Ultimate Studios.
All Shall Perish just wrapped up a US tour with From A Second Story Window, Emmure and Nodes of Ranvier.
Van Halen Release Ring Tones
On the heels of their heralded North American tour, Van Halen has announced the release of official ringtones and ringback tones for the first time. Among the 15 official Van Halen ringers available are the Grammy-nominated, #1 smash hit, “Jump,” one of the most famous guitar solos of all time, “Eruption,” and the iconic rock classics “Ain’t Talkin’ Bout Love,” “Runnin’ With The Devil,” “Jamie’s Cryin’,” ”Unchained,” “Panama,” and “Hot For Teacher.” Van Halen ringtones are available now by searching “Van Halen” on mobile phones from all major carriers or by sending the text message “VH” to 74466. For the next four weeks, AT&T Mobility will be offering exclusive versions of several of the Van Halen ringtones and answer tones to their subscribers. More...
In Flames Confirm New Album Will be Released in US
Swedish metallers IN FLAMES have issued the following update:
"We have seen that many of you, especially our U.S. fans, are wondering if we are not releasing our new album in North America. All you guys can relax as we will not let you down and the new album WILL be released over there too. Nuclear Blast Records have the right to release our material everywhere except in North America. We are currently working on the U.S. record deal. This should be resolved very shortly. So NO worries, our new album WILL be released in the U.S."
IN FLAMES is currently at the band's own IF Studios in Gothenburg, Sweden working on the follow-up to last year's "Come Clarity". The group is receiving assistance during the vocal-recording sessions from producer Daniel Bergstrand, who previously produced the vocals on "Reroute To Remain", "Soundtrack To Your Escape" and "Come Clarity". More...
The Gates Of Slumber Complete Writing New Album
Writing is nearly complete for what will easily be one of the doom-laden heavy metal highlights in 2008, namely the new THE GATES OF SLUMBER album, in which the trio have christened "Conqueror".
According to a press release, "Conqueror" "will continue the promise laid down with their doom trodden 'Awakening' debut and the surging powerful acclaimed epic 'Suffer No Guilt' (along with the several splits and EPs they've been involved with, the most recent ones being the Relapse Records released split 7" with THE DREAM IS DEAD, and the split CD with Finnish act SPIRITUS MORTIS). In what will be a continuation from 'Suffer No Guilt' with the songs being more to the point but still encompassing that epic fervor, surging melody, and that crushing doom-like vibe inherent within their style, 'Conqueror' will easily prove that THE GATES OF SLUMBER are one of North America's most exceptional acts within this sphere of heavy metal." More...
Waylander Post New Song Online
Long-running Irish folk metal act WAYLANDER has issued the following update:
"It has been a very busy time for WAYLANDER recently, hence the delay in updates and studio reports. [The new WAYLANDER album] 'Honour Amongst Chaos' is now complete and is just waiting to be mastered. A full song off the album, 'As The Deities Clash', is available for streaming off our MySpace page."
"On the surface it may appear that we have spent an overly long time recording this album. Things are never that straight forward for WAYLANDER though. Preparations for the Full Metal Racket festival in Belfast and behind-the-scenes activity in regard to our label gives a fairer reflection of the actual time spent."
"In other news, Dave Briggs (also of RUNECASTER fame and the producer of our upcoming album) has become WAYLANDER's full-time tin whistle and mandolin player, bringing us up to a sextet." More...
Enthroned Drop Off Gorgoroth Tour
Belgian black metallers ENTHRONED check in with the following update:
"Due to some problems with the organization of the tour (with GORGOROTH), ENTHRONED has no other choice than to pull off the current tour after the date in Belgium (November 28). Most of what was promised never actually happened, creating severe tensions between the band and the tour promoter. As well some health problems occurred due to the lame state and insalubrity of the tour bus. ENTHRONED would like to apologize towards the fans for something that is beyond our control."
ENTHRONED's new album, "Tetra Karcist", was released in September via Napalm Records. The CD was recorded under the guidance of Harris Johns (SODOM, KREATOR, VOIVOD). Guest musicians on the CD include Ashmedi (MELECHESH), MkM (ANTAEUS), Verderf (ex-VERLOREN, OUROBOUROS), Harris Johns and Dungeon (ICONOCLASM).
Eerie Announce New Album Title
VANMAKT's Gorgoth (a.k.a. Tais) has issued the following update on his Swedish gothic/doom metal project EERIE:
"After lots of discussions and e-mailing with several labels EERIE has decided to release a full-length album next year! This gloomy creation will be entitled 'As The World Comes To An End'! 6-7 songs will embrace your haunted and darkened lives, hopefully by the autumn of 2008. More info regarding the release will come when we feel that it is time to let you know. Until then, feel free to download our demo songs at our MySpace."
According to EERIE's official bio, the band "was formed by Tais in 2007, but has grown inside his mind since 2003. The love for doom and gothic/metal has always been a big part of Tais' life, and since the first time he picked up the guitar to write a song it has been melancholic tunes that have arisen. That's why he has been playing in a lot of constellations with a direction against the melancholic and melodic goth/metal."
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/eerieswe.
Motley Crue Singer To Sing National Anthem Tonight
MÖTLEY CRÜE frontman Vince Neil will be performing the US ational Anthem tonight when the Pittsburgh Steelers host the Miami Dolphins at Heinz Field for ESPN's Monday Night Football. The game will begin at 8:30pm Eastern/5:30pm Pacific with Vince's performance of the Anthem taking place just prior to kickoff. The Steelers are currently celebrating their 75th Anniversary and lead the AFC North with a 7-3 record overall and a perfect 5-0 record at home
Brain Drill Post Sacramento Concert Footage Online
Capital Chaos has posted video footage of the Oregon/California death metal band BRAIN DRILL performing the song "Apocalyptical Feasting" on November 24, 2007 at The Kennel Club in Sacramento, California. Watch the clip below.
BRAIN DRILL recently inked a deal with Metal Blade Records. The group's new album, "Apocalyptical Feasting", is tentatively due in early 2008.
BRAIN DRILL was formed in the summer of 2005 by Dylan Ruskin (guitars), whose next goal was to find a drummer that could actually play death metal and not just claim they could. Dylan ended up recruiting drummer Marco Pitruzzella, former drummer of VITAL REMAINS, VILE, VORNAGAR, ATROCIOUS HYSTERIA, NUMA, and a few other extreme metal bands. After a few months of jamming Steve Rathjen was then later put onto vocals. Rounding out the band is Jeff Hughell on bass who joined the band in the winter of 2006. With mind-blowing style and speed, inventing a 10-fingered tapping technique using a seven-string bass, and the song-learning capabilities of a genius it was quite obvious he was a perfect fit into this now four-piece arsenal. More...
Bassist Rudy Sarzo Speaks On Quiet Riot Singer
Ex-QUIET RIOT bassist Rudy Sarzo spoke to Headbanger's Blog about the passing of his former bandmate, QUIET RIOT singer Kevin DuBrow.
"All of us are in shock trying to deal with this," Sarzo told Headbanger's Blog. "The last thing you expect when you get up in the morning is something like this. He was somebody who really loved life. He loved to have fun and have a great time. Every day to him was like a party — that's what it was like when I played with him."
Sarzo added, "I think he’ll be remembered for being a hell of a rock singer. He was definitely one of the best singers of the '80s."
Katherine Turman, a music journalist who produces Alice Cooper's radio show, "Nights With Alice Cooper", praised DuBrow's dynamic state presence. "I was in high school the first time I saw Kevin at the Troubadour in West Hollywood, and I remember loving their song 'Slick Black Cadillac'," she told Headbanger's Blog. "Kevin was a super-energetic performer and listeners need to know there was more to QUIET RIOT than SLADE covers."
Former RIP magazine editor and "Life on Planet Rock" author Lonn Friend, who was good friends with DuBrow, told Headbanger's Blog that the singer refused to dwell on the past and lived to the fullest. "He was never without a smile on his face or a bounce in his step. It didn't matter what rug he plopped on his head or what folks might be saying about the guy he was in the spandex-clad past, Kevin didn't give a f— anymore. He was content playing his own rock, venturing out to see his musical peers shred it loud and hard and totally enjoying the second half of his life."
Carnivore Seek "Blood GIrls" for European Tour
CARNIVORE is looking for "blood girls" to assist them on stage during their upcoming European tour. Check out the "advertisement" at this location.
CARNIVORE played an exclusive, one-off New York-area show as a warm-up for the group's European tour on November 21 at L'Amour, in the club's recently opened new location in Staten Island. A photo of former BIOHAZARD bassist/vocalist Evan Seinfeld performing with CARNIVORE at the L'Amour gig can be found at this location.
CARNIVORE's current lineup:
Peter Steele (TYPE O NEGATIVE) - Vocals, Bass
Paul Bento (METAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION) - Guitar, Vocals
Joey Zampela (LIFE OF AGONY) - Guitar, Vocals
Steve Tobin (METAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION, ex-DUST TO DUST) - Drums, Vocals More...
Severed Savior Offer Update On New Album
Guitarist Mike Gilbert of SEVERED SAVIOR has posted the following update:
“The artwork for our next CD is coming along great. Par Oloffson is almost done, and I think it’s going to be awesome once completed. Shit, it’s awesome at the stage it’s at right now. So I know it’s only going to get better."
"Rhythm guitars are done! Actually I was one song away from being finished over a month ago. Then my worst nightmare came true. For some reason, (probably my fault) Cubase had been saving most of my files in some random ass folder I was not aware of. So, even though I had been meticulously backing up my work. When I cleaned out some space on my drive, I lost over 80% of the guitar wave files. A professional data recovery business could not retrieve a single file I needed, and those that were retrieved were corrupt and unusable. So, to make a long story short. I had to start over. Rather than throwing up, or having a nervous breakdown, I just sucked it up and went back to work. And I must admit, even though it was an absolute nightmare come true, losing all the songs I had worked so hard to complete. They came out even better this time around. Now that rhythm guitars are out of the way. A few solos and the clean/acoustic song are next on the agenda." More...
Watch Walls of Jericho Live Footage Online
More live footage of Detroit’s WALLS OF JERICHO performing their track “Through The Eyes Of A Dreamer” is available for viewing at the Underground Video Television (UVTV) website.
The footage was taken at Northern Lights in Clifton Park NY earlier this year when the band was on tour with KITTIE, 36 CRAZYFISTS, DEAD TO FALL and IN THIS MOMENT.
The forthcoming EP will be included with WALLS OF JERICHO's "Live in South America" DVD, which was filmed this past August and is tentatively scheduled for release in March 2008 via Trustkill.
Trouble Drummer Seeks Bassist For Retro Grave
TROUBLE drummer Jeff "Oly" Olson is seeking a bass player to record and tour with his RETRO GRAVE project. Interested parties can contact RETRO GRAVE's management at LeighRush@aol.com for details of where to send the press kit.
RETRO GRAVE's full-length debut, "Again", is scheduled for release in the spring. These recordings will feature collaborations with established, high-profile musicians whose identities have not yet been revealed.
"Again" will be released in time for TROUBLE's appearance at the Roadburn Festival on April 18, 2008 at the 013 club in Tilburg, The Netherlands. Olson is currently writing an exclusive RETRO GRAVE "studio report" for the Roadburn web site, to be posted in the very near future at www.roadburn.com.
In other news, the previously announced re-arrangement of TROUBLE's "Run to the Light" album (originally issued in 1987 via Metal Blade) will now be recorded by TROUBLE rather than RETRO GRAVE. Details of this project will be revealed soon.
Brainstorm To Tour With Pagan's Mind
German metallers BRAINSTORM have announced dates for their upcoming tour, with guests PAGAN'S MIND and POWERWOLF.
Dates include:
March
4 - Copenhagen, Denmark at The Rock
5 - Hamburg, Germany at Markthalle
7 - Weert, Netherlands at De Bosuil
8 - Memmingen, Germany at Kaminwerk
9 - Saarbrücken, Germany at Garage
11 - Pratteln, Switzerland at Z7
12 - Ludwigsburg, Germany at Rockfabrik
14 - Paris, France at Venue TBA
15 - Vosselaar, Belgium at Biebob
16 - Langen, Germany at Stadthalle
18 - Bochum, Germany at Zeche
19 - Nürnberg, Germany at Hirsch
21 - Vienna, Austria at Szene
22 - Budapest, Hungary at A Zene Haza
As previously reported, after celebrating their tenth anniversary with the re-releases of their first two efforts (Hungry and Unholy) and the release of their first ever 2-DVD set Honey From The B's, Brainstorm are set to release their new album, Downburst. Produced by Sascha Paeth (ANGRA, RHAPSODY OF FIRE, KAMELOT) and Miro, Downburst will be released as a regular jewelcase as well as in a limited edition jakebox (100% plastic-free) including 2 bonus tracks.
Tracklist: 'Falling Spiral Down', 'Fire Walk With Me', 'Stained With Sin', 'Redemption In Your Eyes', 'End In Sorrow', 'How Do You Feel', 'Protect Me From Myself', 'Surrounding Walls', 'Frozen', 'All Alone', 'Crawling In Chains' (exclusive European bonus track), 'Hold Tight' (exclusive European bonus track).
The album will be unleashed on January 25th (Germany/Austria/Switzerland/Italy) and January 28th (Europe) through Metal Blade Records.
Amon Amarth Strike Gold In Canada
Metal Blade Canada reports:
Third time is a charm when it comes to Sweden's AMON AMARTH!
Wrath Of The Norsemen DVD, which was released just a mere four months ago, has officially gone gold in Canada, being the third international territory the DVD has been released in.
"We want to thank Metal Blade Records, and especially Michael Trengert (Germany office), for making this DVD happen. We also want to thank our friends 'Die Jomswikinger', our crew, and the Roax film team for an excellent job. Last but not least we want to thank all our Canadian fans who have supported us and bought the DVD. You kick ass Canada and we will see you very soon!"
A three-disc set, the DVD was released in a deluxe 10-page digipak with special gold-laminated slipcase. The main body of the DVD is the Cologne show from 2005 - filmed with 11 cameras, this was the longest show Amon Amarth have ever played (23 songs!). Bonus footage includes interviews, behind-the-scenes of the DVD recording and other material filmed around the Cologne show. Discs 2 and 3 feature professionally filmed shows from Summer Breeze 2005, the Metal Blade Rrroooaaarrr 2005 (a show with a really unusual set list!), Wacken Open Air 2004 and the release show for Fate Of Norns in Ludwigsburg (Germany) in 2004.
Amon Amarth will be celebrating their success in Canada on their upcoming Wrath Of The Norsemen Tour. This will be the band's third time touring Canada in 2007 and we welcome them with open arms!"
The band will be playing the following shows below:
December
5 in Montreal, QC - Medley
6 in Toronto, ON - Opera House
14 in Vancouver, BC - Croatian
"Metal Blade Records Canada will also be presenting the band with their gold plaques for Wrath Of The Norsemen in Vancouver, BC on December 14th.
Also, don't forget to swing by and hang with your favorite Vikings at their in-store appearance on December 14th in Vancouver, BC at Scrape Records from 5 - 6 PM."
Ex-Warrant Guitarist Comments On Quiet Riot Singer
Former WARRANT guitarist Billy Morris, who played guitar with QUIET RIOT off and on during the band's later years, has released the following statement to D.X. Ferris of the Cleveland Scene regarding the passing of QUIET RIOT singer Kevin DuBrow:
"Wow. Today I learned that my friend Kevin DuBrow passed away. This blows me away. No one would ever imagine this happening to Kevin, especially me, after knowing him for the past eight years. During our tours together, he would really take care of himself, eating well (certainly better than the rest of us). He'd take his vitamins every day, and always kept his body and voice in check. One thing about Kevin was that he was always so thankful for what he had. Performing live and creating music were his passions, and he was grateful for the time he spent with his friends and fans. The rock scene has lost an icon, an individual who brought it every night! Kevin, you will be missed."
According to The Associated Press, a neighbor summoned police and paramedics Sunday (November 25) to the Las Vegas home where the 52-year-old Dubrow was pronounced dead at 5:20 p.m., police and coroner's officials said.
There was no forced entry at the house, and no suspicious circumstances were reported, police Officer Jose Montoya said.
The cause and manner of death were not immediately known, pending an autopsy and toxicology results, Clark County coroner's spokeswoman Samantha Charles said.
First Linkin Park Dates Of 2008 Surface
The Pulse of Radio reports: The first two dates of LINKIN PARK's next headlining North American tour, scheduled for February and March of 2008, have been announced. The trek will reportedly kick off on February 16 in Detroit, with the next stop on February 18 in Manchester, New Hampshire. COHEED AND CAMBRIA is said to be opening, although more support acts could be announced. A New York City show is also in the cards, although the date for that has yet to be determined. The jaunt will be LINKIN PARK's second major trip around North America in support of its "Minutes to Midnight" album, following this past summer's Projekt Revolution festival.
Another Projekt Revolution package is also in the works for later in 2008.
LINKIN PARK made history on November 18 by becoming the first international rock group to perform at a stadium in China, playing for a sold-out audience at the prestigious Shanghai Hongkou Stadium.
LINKIN PARK's Music For Relief organization teamed this month with Unite the United on an eBay auction, with proceeds going to recovery and reforesting efforts in the Southern California areas devastated by last month's wildfires.
One of the prizes in the auction is a trip to New York to see the band perform.
Quiet Riot Drummer: "I've Lost My Best Friend"
QUIET RIOT drummer Frankie Banali has released a short statement to CNN regarding the passing of the group's singer, Kevin DuBrow.
According to The Associated Press, a neighbor summoned police and paramedics Sunday (November 25) to the Las Vegas home where the 52-year-old Dubrow was pronounced dead at 5:20 p.m., police and coroner's officials said.
There was no forced entry at the house, and no suspicious circumstances were reported, police Officer Jose Montoya said.
The cause and manner of death were not immediately known, pending an autopsy and toxicology results, Clark County coroner's spokeswoman Samantha Charles said.
"I'm at a loss for words. I've just lost my best friend," Banali told CNN. "Out of respect for both Kevin and his family, I won't comment further. There's going to be a lot of speculation out there, and I won't add to that. I love him too much."
QUIET RIOT hit the top of the charts with its 1983 album, "Metal Health", considered by some sources as the first heavy metal album to hit No. 1. The album was driven by the group's cover of SLADE's "Cum on Feel the Noize", which hit the Top 40.
Kataklysm Frontman Issues Road Report
KATAKLYSM frontman Maurizio Iocono recently took time out from his busy touring schedule with CHIMAIRA, DIVINE HERESY, and TERROR to sit down with MetalSucks to discuss the tour, the fans, and the band's upcoming album which is due for a May 2008 release.
Iocono also talks about Paganfest USA, the spring run with ENSIFERUM, TURISAS, TRY and ELUVEITIE. An excerpt from the chat follows:
"The tour just started, we are doing our fourth show tonight in Buffalo… we are having a good time so far and its killer to see our old fans showing up and being wild as well as making new fans. They expect the Kataklysm chaos as we are known to deliver, we love it when the crowd is wild and loud, we have fun
Read the full article at this location.
Amorphis Confirmed For Rock Hard Festival
AMORPHIS and THE CLAYMORE are the latest acts confirmed for next year's Rock Hard Festival which will take place May 9th - 11th, 2008 at the Gelsenkirchen Amphitheatre in Gelsenkirchen, Germany.
The festival line-up is now as follows: AMORPHIS, CELTIC FROST, THE CLAYMORE, DIE APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER, ENSLAVED, HELSTAR,, IMMORTAL, JORN, MOONSORROW, NAPALM DEATH, SIEGES EVEN, VOLBEAT and Y&T.
More bands will be announced soon.
Lamb Of God Announce End Of Year Contest
LAMB OF GOD have issued the following update:
"After a great first year, Lamb Of God some of their sponsors, and The Congregation would like to say thank you to their fans with a great big instrument give-away!!!
Jackson Guitars is providing a guitar and bass; ESP Guitars is providing a guitar, and Meini Cymbals is giving away a Chris Adler custom Pure Metal Ride cymbal and carrying bag!
All four items will be fully autographed by Lamb of God and sent to the randomly chosen winners!
Congregation members are automatically entered to win! Non-Congregation fans please see contest entry rules and details here (last entry on the page).
Congratulations, good luck, and a big THANK YOU from Lamb Of God!!!""
Mudvayne Singer Speaks On New Album
The Pulse of Radio reports: MUDVAYNE releases a "fan-generated" collection of rarities, demos and live recordings called By "The People, For The People" on Tuesday (November 27). The record contains demo versions of some of MUDVAYNE's most popular songs, including "Death Blooms", "Fall Into Sleep", "Not Falling" and "Happy". Singer Chad Gray told The Pulse of Radio he thinks fans will enjoy hearing the tracks in their earliest stages. "From the demo standpoint, it's kind of cool because it's like, I think it allows the fan to adhere more to the band," he said. "It allows you to go deeper because they're hearing the songs on the records that are realized, where demos is just mapping. It's just getting down ideas, like broad strokes. So it kind of allows you to see where that song came from and kind of be a part of the life of what that song became."
Fans helped choose songs for the CD at Mudvayne.com, with the group deciding on the final selection.
The set also features a new song called "Dull Boy", which serves as the first single, a previously unreleased cover of THE POLICE's "King of Pain", plus live and acoustic versions of other MUDVAYNE favorites.
MUDVAYNE has posted some previously unseen band footage at its MySpace page in conjunction with the CD's arrival.
The group will enter the studio early next year to complete its fourth studio album, which is due out sometime in 2008.
Gray's other band, HELLYEAH, is currently on the road and recently issued a live DVD titled "Below The Belt".
Roadrunner Records To Launch Venture Label
Roadrunner Records today announced an exclusive worldwide agreement with music industry veteran Tom Lipsky to launch a to-be-named joint venture label. The primary goal of the label will involve new recordings by established classic and heritage rock artists to augment the already formidable Roadrunner artist roster. Roadrunner Records President Jonas Nachsin comments on the union, "Tom has had a distinguished career connecting with artists that have had a lasting impact on music culture. Pairing the world's premier rock label with his vision is a winning combination."
Under the terms of the agreement, worldwide physical and digital distribution, marketing and licensing of all releases will run through Roadrunner's existing infrastructure, with Lipsky working closely on all aspects of his artists. "My time will be dedicated primarily to the artists, supporting their creative activities and designing strategies to further their relationship with the consumer," Lipsky explains, "which is made possible by the resources that exist within Roadrunner. This is an opportunity that I am very excited about and I look forward to bringing important artists into this partnership."
Most recently CEO & President of Sanctuary Records Group North America, Lipsky is best known for his success in delivering gold- and platinum RIAA-certified album and DVD awards to music legends including NEIL YOUNG, BLACK SABBATH, KISS, IRON MAIDEN, MEGADETH, LYNYRD SKYNYRD, THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND, JOHNNY CASH, STYX, WIDESPREAD PANIC, BOB MARLEY, REO SPEEDWAGON and BAD COMPANY. Prior to his tenure at Sanctuary, Lipsky was one of the founders and President of Raleigh, NC-based CMC International Records, widely recognized as the premier frontline label dedicated exclusively to the marketing and further development of established artists.
Lipsky takes pride in making notable impact on artists' careers that others may underestimate. "Having the opportunity to be involved in the continuing careers of the great artists I have worked with is a privilege," states Lipsky. "They are the cornerstone of our industry. These artists have earned the loyalty of multiple generations of fans. Their continuing relevance, creative validity and economic value are without question."
Lipsky will continue to be based in Raleigh, NC, while visiting New York and other outposts often.
Severed Saviour Post Album Update
Guitarist Mike Gilbert of SEVERED SAVIOR has posted the following update:
“The artwork for our next CD is coming along great. Par Oloffson is almost done, and I think it’s going to be awesome once completed. Shit, it’s awesome at the stage it’s at right now. So I know it’s only going to get better.
Rhythm guitars are done! Actually I was one song away from being finished over a month ago. Then my worst nightmare came true. For some reason, (probably my fault) Cubase had been saving most of my files in some random ass folder I was not aware of. So, even though I had been meticulously backing up my work. When I cleaned out some space on my drive, I lost over 80% of the guitar wave files. A professional data recovery business could not retrieve a single file I needed, and those that were retrieved were corrupt and unusable. So, to make a long story short. I had to start over. Rather than throwing up, or having a nervous breakdown, I just sucked it up and went back to work. And I must admit, even though it was an absolute nightmare come true, losing all the songs I had worked so hard to complete. They came out even better this time around. Now that rhythm guitars are out of the way. A few solos and the clean/acoustic song are next on the agenda.
Bass recording is going very well, and it’s about half way done. A fair amount of the new material has separate guitar parts, as well as completely separate bass parts not following either guitar. The bass is adding the icing to the cake. And it’s really great to hear these songs coming together with the full instrumentation and orchestration as I imagined them when I wrote them.
I want to apologize to you guys for not having completed the CD yet. I know some of you are very eager for this CD to finally be released. But unfortunately due to a fucked up work schedule, I’ve only been able to do tracking a couple days per week. Let alone the unforeseen obstacles that have popped up a few times causing delay. But I assure you we are near completion and you can still look forward to a release early ‘08. That’s about it for now. Once the artwork is completed, I’ll be sure to post it here.”
Van Halen Announce 2008 Tour Dates
The reunited VAN HALEN will hit the road again next year, and the following tour dates have been released:
January 22 - Oklahoma City, OK @ Ford Center
January 24 - San Antonio, TX @ AT&T Center
January 26 - Dallas, TX American Airlines Center
January 28 - Houston, TX @ Toyota Center
February 4 - Omaha, NE @ Qwest Center Omaha
February 8 - New Orleans, LA @ New Orleans Arena
February 12 - Sunrise, FL @ BankAtlantic Center
February 22 - Charlottesville, VA @ John Paul Jones Arena
March 13 - East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center
March 17 - New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden Arena
March 19 - Hershey, PA @ Giant Center
March 28 - Atlantic City, NJ @ Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall
March 30 - Saint Louis, MO @ Scottrade Center
Remain To Enter Studio Next Month
Vocalist Joe Harwood of Barrie, Ontario-based metallers REMAIN has issued the following update:
"Well, we just got back off our first tour through the UK, it was an awesome two weeks and we kicked ass everywhere we played. Most people were blown away that we were over there on our unmastered debut album.
The tour was a huge success, our MySpace has received over 10,000 hits in the last month.
We are also heading into the studio on December 8th to start recording our second album, we are planning for a March 1st release date with a video to be released the same time."
Cadaveria Cancel Romanian Dates
CADAVERIA, the Italian band featuring former OPERA IX vocalist Cadaveria and ex-OPERA IX drummer/NECRODEATH vocalist Marçelo Santos (a.k.a. Flegias), has cancelled its previously announced Romanian tour dates due to the "unprofessionalism" of the local promoter. "CADAVERIA and Black Dahlia [Agency] apologize [to] all Romanian fans, especially with those who already bought their ticket," the group writes in a statement. "CADAVERIA hope to meet Romanian fans in a near future, wishing a luckier situation."
CADAVERIA recently filmed a video for the song "Anagram". The track comes off the group's latest album, "In Your Blood", which was released in May via Season of Mist.
CADAVERIA's sophomore album, "Far Away from Conformity", was released in early 2004. The follow-up to 2002's "The Shadows' Madame" was recorded and mixed at Capitan Woofer Studio in Italy and was mastered at the Mastering Room in Sweden.
Cannibal Corpse Guitar Being Auctioned
The original Dean Cadillac electric guitar, which was played by CANNIBAL CORPSE guitarist Rob Barrett on the "Kill" world tour is being auctioned on eBay from Thursday, November 29 at 8:00 p.m. CET to Sunday, December 9 at 8:00 p.m. CET.
The guitar, which was signed by all five members of CANNIBAL CORPSE, is in good condition and will be shipped in its original case.
Check out the European Metal Blade eBay shop where the auction will kick off on November 29.
The complete proceeds of this auction will be donated to the charity Strahlemaennchen.de. Strahlemaennchen.de is a German organization which helps children with cancer and their families with everyday problems as well as making the children's wishes come true.
Shipping within the EU by GLS. Outside of the EU by DHL. Please note that shipping charges vary from country to country. A few countries are listed below. If your country is not listed, please get in touch. International buyers please be aware that your country (outside of the EU) may charge custom fees or duties on imports. Metal Blade Records is not responsible for these fees.
Shipping costs:
Denmark: 13,50 EUR
Finland: 36,50 EUR
France: 16,50 EUR
Great Britain: 22,00 EUR
Ireland: 33 EUR
Italy: 26,50 EUR
Austria: 16 EUR
Poland: 26 EUR
Portugal: 31,50 EUR
Sweden: 26,50 EUR
Russia: 64,00 EUR
USA: 126,00 EUR
Canada: 126 EUR
Brazil: 166,00 EUR
Japan: 166,00 EUR
Extreme Guitarist Explains Reunion
Boston-based rock group EXTREME is set to return in the spring of 2008 with its first album of all new material in 13 years. The band features original members Nuno Bettencourt (guitar), Gary Cherone (vocals) and Pat Badger (bass), along with new drummer Kevin Figueiredo.
In the coming weeks, EXTREME will announce its plans for a world tour in 2008 as well as a release date and label for the as-yet-untitled album, which is being produced by Bettencourt. The guitarist says: "It will have all the ingredients of an EXTREME record. The music is always funkier than most rock bands — and born a bipolar bastard child of Mr. Zeppelin and Mrs. Beatles."
EXTREME has been introduced to a new generation of music fans who are connecting with the band through MySpace as a result of the inclusion of their song "Play With Me" on 2007's Guitar Hero video game. Outside of EXTREME, Cherone joined VAN HALEN as lead singer in 1998, co-writing the "Van Halen III" album and touring the world with them. Bettencourt joined up with JANE'S ADDICTION frontman Perry Farrell to form the band SATELLITE PARTY and co-produce their album, "Ultra Payloaded". SATELLITE PARTY also featured drummer Kevin Figuieredo, who was previously in a band with Bettencourt called DRAMAGODS.
Through the years, Bettencourt and Cherone have remained close and continued to collaborate on occasion. But what exactly inspired them to rejoin forces as EXTREME?
"Rock and roll famine…I know it might sound crazy, but there is a massive shortage of rock and roll on this planet," says Bettencourt. "It's almost extinct. I mean the true spirit of quality rock and roll — you know, musicianship, when you would give up every moment of your day to master your instrument and create your own identity and sound so as to respectfully outdo all your past heroes whilst proudly wearing the badge of their influences."
"Passion," says Bettencourt, is what drives EXTREME. "To do whatever it takes, with integrity, to bring music to the people, not because of fame…but just cause you simply couldn't wait to share it with them."
"We realized," adds Bettencourt, "not only are the people starved for rock and roll...So are we. Let's eat."
Look for the group to perform Saturday, December 1 at the Boston Music Awards at the Orpheum Theatre.
Vanmakt Part Ways With Guitarist
Swedish black metal band VANMAKT has parted ways with guitarist Satygh. According to the group's mainman Gorgoth, "We won't play together with someone that we can't trust, so Satygh is no longer a part of VANMAKT!"
He continued, "Since I'm doing all the songwriting in the band, this won't have anything to do with how we sound. No gigs will be postponed or deleted. We will search for a new dedicated guitarist and we will let it take the time it takes. In the meantime, we have asked a friend to do live shows with us — until we find a new guitar player, that is."
VANMAKT's debut album, "Vredskapta Mörkersagor", features guest appearances by Jonas Renvaktar (SPAWN OF POSSESSION) on the song entitled "Open the Gates" and Hebbe from SKALD on the track "En Mardröm, En Strid, Ett Helvete". VANMAKT also filmed a video for the song "My Darkest Hate", which can be viewed below. More...
Melechesh Pull Out Of Legacy Festival
Mesopotamian metal masters MELECHESH have cancelled their participation in the Legacy Festival, set to take place May 30-31, 2008 in Belgrade, Serbia. Replacing them on the bill will be Austrian black/death metal titans BELPHEGOR.
The festival billing is now shaping up as follows:
May 30, 2008:
OBITUARY
DARK FUNERAL
DESTRUCTION
THRESHOLD
VADER
SEPTIC FLESH
May 31, 2008:
JORN LANDE
AMORPHIS
BELPHEGOR
RAGE
UNLEASHED
FINNTROLL
Two more international acts as well as four Serbian support bands will be announced soon.
Gallows, This Is Hell, Cancer Bats Tour Dates
The first batch of dates for Gallows' upcoming U.S. tour have been announced. Support will be provided by This Is Hell and Cancer Bats. Here are the latest tour dates:
1/9 Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade
1/10 Jacksonville, FL @ Jack Rabbits
1/11 Orlando, FL @ The Social
1/12 Gainesville, FL @ Common Grounds
1/14 Houston, TX @ Red Room at Meridian
1/15 Austin, TX @ Emo's
1/16 Dallas, TX @ The Door
1/18 Albuquerque, NM @ The Launch Pad
1/19 Tempe, AZ @ The Clubhouse
1/21 Anaheim, CA @ Chain Reaction
1/23 Los Angeles, CA @ Troubadour
1/24 San Francisco, CA @ Slim's
1/26 Portland, OR @ Hawthorne Theatre
1/27 Vancouver, BC @ Plaza Club
1/28 Seattle, WA @ Chop Suey
1/30 Salt Lake City, UT @ Avalon Theatre
1/31 Denver, CO @ Marquis Theatre
2/2 Minneapolis, MN @ Triple Rock
2/3 Chicago, IL @ Metro Smart Bar
2/4 Cleveland, OH @ The Grog Shop
2/5 Toronto, ON @ Mod Club
2/7 Worcester, MA @ The Palladium
2/8 Brooklyn, NY @ Music Hall Of Williamsburg
2/9 New York, NY @ Bowery Ballroom
Epica To Play Show Without Singer
Dutch female-fronted symphonic metallers EPICA have issued the following update:
"We are very sorry to announce that Simone [Simons, vocals] is very ill at the moment. She has been ill for a couple of days already, but unfortunately today it just isn't possible for her to perform on stage at Melkweg [in Amsterdam, Holland]. As you can imagine we all feel very bad about this and as we want to end this tour in the best possible way we have decided to still do the show, but without Simone. Tonight's set list will therefore contain mostly grunt-orientated songs. We wish her all a quick recovery."
Nuclear Blast Records released a limited deluxe CD edition in Europe of EPICA's new album, "The Divine Conspiracy", featuring the bonus tracks "Higher High" and "Replica" (FEAR FACTORY cover), video clips and a "making-of" enhanced section.
"The Divine Conspiracy" was mixed by Sascha Paeth and features a session appearance by GOD DETHRONED drummer Ariën van Weesenbeek. EPICA has yet to name a full-time drummer following the departure of Jeroen Simons in 2006.
As previously reported, EPICA has been confirmed as the support act for SYMPHONY X on their upcoming North American tour in April/May.
Quiet Riot Singer's Body Being Examined
TMZ.com reports that Las Vegas Metro Police has confirmed that Kevin DuBrow, lead singer for '80s metal band QUIET RIOT, was found dead in his Las Vegas home.
According to TMZ.com, one of DuBrow's neighbors found the singer Sunday (November 25) around 5:20 p.m. The Clark County Coroner has confirmed that they are currently examining DuBrow's body to try to determine the cause of death.
Fellow bandmember Frankie Banali posted this message on his web site: "I can't even find words to say. Please respect my privacy as I mourn the passing and honor the memory of my dearest friend, Kevin DuBrow."
QUIET RIOT was the first metal band to top the Billboard chart and is perhaps best known for its cover of SLADE's "Cum on Feel the Noize."
In 2004, DuBrow recorded a collection of cover versions for his first solo album, "In for the Kill".
QUIET RIOT's latest studio CD, "Rehab", was released on October 3, 2006. The lineup on the album was Kevin DuBrow, Frankie Banali, Tony Franklin and Neil Citron. Legendary singer Glenn Hughes also made a guest vocal appearance on the LP.
Dance Club Massacre, Red I Flight Booking Tour
Dance Club Massacre, Red I Flight, and Brother Von Doom will tour together in January. If you can help with any of the following dates, send a message here.
1/4 Michigan (confirmed)
1/5 West Dundee, IL (confirmed)
1/6 Indianapolis, IN
1/7 St. Louis, MS
1/8 Louisville, KY (confirmed)
1/9 Nashville, TN
1/10 Memphis, TN
1/11 Little Rock, AR
1/12 Jackson, MS
1/13 Mobile, AL (confirmed)
1/14 Tallahassee, FL
1/15 Jacksonville, FL
1/16 Savannah, GA
1/17 Columbia, SC
1/18 Greensboro, NC
1/19 Richmond, VA
1/20 Scranton, PA
1/21 Syracuse, NY (confirmed)
1/22 Buffalo, NY
1/23 Cleveland, OH (confirmed)
1/24 Cincinnati, OH
As previously reported, Dance Club Massacre are touring the US through much of December in support of their 2007 release “Feast of the blood Monsters.”
Shuddersome Signs With Open Grave Records
Open Grave Records has announced the signing of Shuddersome. Hailing from Danville, Virginia, Shuddersome boasts a powerful conglomeration of many musical styles within its discography, ranging from many influences such as Viking, Death, Thrash, and Stoner metal. They released a full length album entitled "Sanctum Nocturnus" in 2006, and have shared the stage with such national acts as 3 Inches of Blood, Alabama Thunderpussy, and Rumpelstiltskin Grinder, among others. The music they create is epic, featuring dual guitar assault, keyboard orchestrations, and sharp drum and bass work allowing them to sound larger than life. Their lyrics deliver tales of arcane mythology and horrific catacyclisms brought alive through the power of their imagination. Shuddersome has made it their mission to break barriers and defy tradition, and it is this attitude that brought them to the attention of Open Grave Records in 2007.
Interview
Disturbed Frontman David Draiman Interviewed
Widely known for their single Down with the Sickness; Disturbed's frontman, David Draiman, took the morning off to give me a phone call to discuss their upcoming album and future plans for the band. Recording their fourth album, these guys have plans to come out stronger than ever in 2008. More...
The Cold Existence Signs w/ Open Grave
Open Grave Records has announced the signing of Swedish death metal band "The Cold Existence". Formed at the end of 1999, and featuring members of Maleficio, Garm, and Vindicate, the group first got their entrance into the scene with a well received 15 song demo entitled "Beyond Comprehension", which was released as an MCD on KhaosMaster Productions. Quickly rising to be a major force in Sweden, with excellent reviews by Close Up Magazine and others, The Cold Existence has gained their live experience playing shows such as the Metal Mania Open Air Fest in Slovakia, along with numerous live shows in Germany, Holland, and Serbia.
In December 2005 the band recorded their first full length album entitled "The Essence". It was this hard work and road worthiness that brought them to the attention of Open Grave Records in late 2007. Their sound is classic Swedish death metal, but with added atmosphere and brutality. Expect a new full length in June 2007.
Unleashed Confirm Four More Festival Dates
Swedish death metal legends UNLEASHED have announced that they are confirmed for the House Of Metal Festival in Umeå, Sweden (February 16th), Ragnarök Festival in Lichtenfels, Germany (March 28th), Zagreb Metal Fest in Zagreb, Croatia (May 30th) and Legacy Festival in Belgrade, Serbia (May 31st).
Unleashed's complete live itinerary can be viewed here.
Darkest Seed Release New EP For Download
Brazilian prog-metallers DARKEST SEED have finished the recordings of the EP The Seed Is Rising. It was recorded in Nitro Sound Solutions being produced by Earth, the vocalist of BLOOD TEARS and SEDUCED BY SUICIDE.
The EP is available for download in the band's website and features a remastered version of the cover for QUEEN's 'The Show Must Go On', which was posted before and the new songs 'The Darkest Seed' and 'Silent Scream'.
The new EP can be downloaded through the band's website and MySpace page.
Mike Portnoy Envies Radiohead's Release Tactics
DREAM THEATER's drummer Mike Portnoy recently sat down in Barcelona with Sergi Ramos from TheMetalCircus.com and spoke about several topics such as family life on the road, new business models for releasing albums and having a taste of being a record company by releasing the official bootlegs of his own band. "I have this immense archive that I want to share with the fans" says Portnoy. "Because I know what it is to be a fan".
The drummer also spoke about RADIOHEAD's recent internet only release of a new album where fans were asked to pay whatever they felt like. "I envy them," said Portnoy. "I think it's awesome that they can do it and I love the fact that the album is so quickly available (...). Regarding the fans choosing their own price...that could be financial suicide for them but in a way it's also kind of cool because it shows it's not just about the money for them".
The whole 18 minute interview can be listened by clicking here.
Zonaria Comment On Upcoming Tour With Marduk
Umeå, Sweden-based melodic death metal quartet ZONARIA has confirmed its participation in the Vanitas Balkans 2008 tour alongside Swedish black metallers MARDUK and IN BATTLE. ARTISAN will also appear on the bill.
Commented ZONARIA guitarist Emil Nyström: "We are really excited to hit the road with MARDUK and IN BATTLE, two cool bands from our country of Sweden. It'll be cool hitting the Balkans with those two plus ARTISAN. We did a short tour of the Balkans with IMPALED NAZARENE a few years ago and it was really fun, so we can't wait to get back and play over there as well as in Turkey and Greece for the first time ever! Will be a great tour! Also, we look forward to ending the trip in Berlin, where we had a great show with PAIN last month! See you all out at the venues headbanging! Be sure to drop by the merch stand after the shows to have some beers with us."
ZONARIA's debut album, "Infamy and The Breed", was released in September through Pivotal Rockordings. Audio samples are available on the band's MySpace page.
Body of Scars Release Debut CD For Free Download
BODY OF SCARS — the new Phoenix, Arizona-based band featuring JAG PANZER drummer Rikard Stjernquist and former 40 GRIT vocalist/guitarist James Santiago — has made its debut, self-titled CD available for FREE dowlnoad via the group's MySpace page. The songs will be posted five at a time for a period of two weeks.
BODY OF SCARS' album was released on October 2.
Formed in August 2006, BODY OF SCARS' current lineup is completed by lead guitarist Randy Davis (MOTIVE) and bassist Brian Shoemake.
For more information, visit www.bodyofscars.com.
Smackdown VS Raw 2008 Soundtrack To Be Released
Soundtrack tracklisting for the Smackdown vs. Raw 2008 album has been released, featuring two newly added A.M. CONSPIRACY tracks:
Nonpoint - Everybody down
Puddle of Mudd - Famous
8Ball&MJG - Stand Up
AM Conspiracy - Welt
AM Conspiracy - Right on Time
Project 86 - Evil (A Chorus of Resistance)
Project 86 - Put your lips to the TV
Sevendust - Driven
Sevendust - Feed
Chevelle - Well Enough Alone
Nobody Famous - Go Hard
Hellyeah - You Wouldn’t Know
Tiamat Finish Recording New Album
Swedish legendary rockers TIAMAT have finished recording their newest effort Amanethes. The album will be mixed in the Woodhouse Studios in Hagen, Germany, in January. The release date is April, 18. Amanethes is the long awaited follow up to Prey from 2003.
Coldworker Prepare For New Album
Drummer Anders Jakobson of the Örebro, Sweden-based "blasting" death metal band COLDWORKER — which consists of current and former/current members of such acts as NASUM, RELENTLESS, CARNAL GRIEF, RUIN and PHOBOS — has issued the following update:
"It's less than two weeks until we start recording the second COLDWORKER album (yet untitled). More details regarding the recording will come soon.
"As of today we have written and rehearsed all 14 songs for the album, just some vocal arrangements and lyrics left until they are completely finished. We will also rehearse a cover song for the Japanese release, song and original artist to be announced later...
"The second COLDWORKER album will be a very intense record. We've worked hard on the songs during all of 2007 and we've cut every corner to make the songs as good as possible. Can't wait to share them with you all.
"The current list of titles are as follows: 'The Black Dog Syndrome', 'Deliverance Of The Rejected', 'Citizens Of The Cyclopean Maze', 'Comatose State', 'The Machine', 'The Last Bitter Twist', 'Scare Tactics', 'Identify With The Aggressor', 'Paradox Lost', 'I Am The Doorway', 'Cold World Paranoia' plus three yet-untitled songs."
COLDWORKER's debut album, "The Contaminated Void", was recorded in June 2006 and mixed by Dan Swanö. The CD was issued in the U.S. on January 23, 2007 via Relapse Records.
COLDWORKER rehearsing a new song entitled "Deliverance Of The Rejected": More...
Skid Row Guitarist Slams Sebastian Bach
James Allman of Baconmusic spoke to SKID ROW guitarist Scotti Hill last night (Saturday, November 24) backstage at the Rock City in Nottingham, England. Watch the 10-minute interview below. An excerpt from the chat follows:
Baconmusic: What's the latest news on Dave "Snake" Sabo? Is he still a member of SKID ROW?
Scotti: "Snake is a member of SKID ROW. He's also got some legal troubles this year and that's keeping him in America. He manages the band DOWN, so since he can't come over here right now — 'cause the judge won't let him; the judge said, 'You can't leave the country until this is all cleared up' — he's hanging with the boys from DOWN who are doing really good. They've got a kick-ass record out right now."
Baconmusic: There's a lot of rumors that he's not too well health-wise.
Scotti: "He's had some health issues, but no… He's good to go, he's good to go. As a matter of fact, he's gonna do some shows with us in January out West — in California, up through Vegas, Salt Lake City and all that stuff."
Baconmusic: So tell us about who is filling in [on this tour]?
Scotti: "We've got Ryan Cook from the band HAIR OF THE DOG — kick-ass band; we've been friends with Ryan for a long time. He was good enough to learn the songs in a week, sat down, one rehearsal, [and] it was like he was good to go. He's a good friend, we've known him for a long time. He's good for the band, he's good for the morale, man — he's a positive influence out here and… [turns to camera, joking] So fuck Snake. Snake, I love you, brother."
Baconmusic: If Snake ever did have to quit the band, do you think it would be still OK for SKID ROW to continue with just two original members?
Scotti: "[I] couldn't tell you that. I don't know what we would do. Because he's an integral part of the writing process and the live show and all that — he basically started the band. I don't know if Rachel [Bolan, bass] and I would go on or do something else. Man, I take this shit day to day. I didn't expect to be here in 2007 sitting in Rock City [in Nottingham, England] down in the basement doing an interview, you know?! It's all gravy."
Baconmusic: Sebastian Bach said in a recent interview, and I quote, "The SKID ROW of 2007 are wrecking the name worse than can ever be wrecked." What have you gotta say in response to that?
Scotti: "Blow it out your ass, buddy. Whatever, dude! Go do your fuckin' thing and just forget about it. We had a good run — we got a good run together. Leave it alone, man! He's got a new record coming out. Why don't he worry about his new record?"
Baconmusic: Or he can keep licking Axl Rose's ass.
Scotti: "If that's what makes you happy, that's what makes you happy. Sure." More...
Two Bands Added To Immolation Tour
New Orleans' GOATWHORE and Greece's SICKENING HORROR have been added to the upcoming European tour featuring IMMOLATION and MELECHESH. The trek is scheduled to kick off mid-March. Exact cities and dates will be announced soon.
On March 8, IMMOLATION will perform at the Metalmania Festival 2008 in Katowice, Poland alongside MEGADETH, OVERKILL, VADER and THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN. Before the launch of the European tour, IMMOLATION will play a few warm-up shows in Russia (for the first time in band's history). More details will be revealed soon.
Evanescence Cancel Denver Concert
According to 9News.com, the EVANESCENCE concert scheduled for Sunday night (November 25) at Magness Arena in Denver, Colorado was canceled because of some sick band members.
9NEWS entertainment reporter Kirk Montgomery has learned two members of the tour were taken to Porter Hospital with flu-like symptoms. Kirk says "many others" involved with the show were also complaining of flu-like symptoms but were not hospitalized. The two taken to the hospital were treated and then released a few hours later.
A source close to the tour tells Kirk with so many people on a tour bus, it's not uncommon for an illness to spread.
Ironically the opening act for the tour is the band SICK PUPPIES.
The show will not be rescheduled. Refunds will be available where you bought your tickets.
Eternal Ruin Part Ways With Vocalist
ETERNAL RUIN, the Maryland-based death metal band featuring former members of DYING FETUS and MISERY INDEX, has parted ways with singer Chris Yuastella.
"It seems the band and Chris have reached a plateau of complacency over the past few years," reads a statement from the group. "We firmly believe now is the best time to make this move based solely on the band's future. We've already begun working on the new stuff and [are] extremely pleased thus far. The new stuff will be a little more defined than previous efforts plus will definitely have the brutality the band is known for."
ETERNAL RUIN released its debut album, "Decomposing Salivation", in 2006 via Amputated Vein Records. The group toured across the U.S. in support of the album with Sweden's IMMERSED IN BLOOD.
Ilium Singer Quits
Australian melodic metallers ILIUM have parted ways with session vocalist Lord Tim (LORD, DUNGEON, FROMBEYOND). Lord Tim's official statement on the matter reads as follows:
"As most of you may know, I have been the 'permanent guest vocalist' for ILIUM since 2003. Essentially that means I was a paid session musician who did ongoing work with the band as well as some additional paid engineering, production, design and video clip work.
"Today I announce my departure from ILIUM as their ongoing session vocalist.
"The reasons for this mostly come down to lack of time for the project. Since LORD's 'Ascendence' album was released this year, things have been absolutely insane for us with 2008 looking only to get even more busy. Aside from LORD, I also have several other projects that I am a part of. Unfortunately, there's only so many hours in the day and a decision had to be made about which additional projects to LORD I could dedicate time to, and that leads me to the other reason I'm withdrawing from ILIUM: lack of enthusiasm.
"I'm a firm believer that fans are not stupid. They can smell a fake and can hear when a performer is merely 'phoning in the performance.' If I do any project, I put in 100% effort otherwise I'm ripping off the fans and I'm selling myself short.
"I recorded my vocals for ILIUM's 'Permian Dusk' and 'Vespertilion' albums in late 2003 and believe they're some of my best work. Since that time, due to differing opinions of how the band presents itself both in promotion and production (which is, of course, not my place to insist on any changes since I am only a 'hired gun'), I've found my enthusiasm for ILIUM continuing to diminish over the years.
"I have the utmost respect for Jason [Hodges, ILIUM guitarist and founder] for what he's put on the line for ILIUM and for the generosity he has shown me in the past. This is the key reason I have continued to work with the band when there were other projects I am associated with that I believe in more. But as I mentioned, lack of time and enthusiasm has finally got the better of me and I believe if we were to continue to work together it would be unfair to both parties and damaging to both our reputations and friendship.
"I'd like to take this opportunity to wish both Jason and Adam [Smith, guitar] all the best with ILIUM. I'm sure they'll have no trouble finding a replacement vocalist that is more than up to the task. I'd like to also thank fans of the band who enjoyed my work with ILIUM, I very much appreciate your kind words."
Headline News
Quiet Riot Singer Found Dead
Michael Politz of The Vegas Eye reports that QUIET RIOT frontman Kevin DuBrow was found dead in his Las Vegas home on Sunday, November 25. According to Politz, DubRow — whom Politz calls "one of my closest friends" — recently celebrated his 52nd birthday in New Orleans "where he ate great food and even caught THE CULT at The House of Blues."
Although the band has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, bassist Kelly Garni, who was one of the founding members of QUIET RIOT, has posted the following message on the Randy Rhoads (late QUIET RIOT/OZZY OSBOURNE guitarist) web site RandyRhoads.tk:
"I ask this to all of you not only for myself but for other friends and family. I ask that no one here offer any speculation or opinions, theories or other things that could be construed as negative or, and I'm sorry for this, even sympathetic, right at this immediate time. I am already within hours of this having to deal with untrue rumors and speculation and that only adds fuel to that. There is a tendency for the subject of Kevin to incite flames on every board and now is not the time for that. I will explain to everyone here the facts and the truth in the next 24 to 48 hours as I realize this will effect us all. So please, until then, be patient. All details and other pertinate info will be passed on to you here when it becomes available to me. Thank you."
Terror Syndrome Recording Guitar Tracks This Week
TERROR SYNDROME drummer Ryan van Poederooyen (THE DEVIN TOWNSEND BAND) has issued the following update:
"Hey everyone,
So, next we're going to get Dave Young in and re-do some guitar tracks. We only lost a little bit of over-dub guitar stuff from when our hard drive fizzed. We're going into the studio on Monday and Tuesday Nov 26th to finish and maybe add some other cool ideas on guitar. The album is sounding mighty and we're looking to have this sucker mixed in December. More news to come on that very soon......
Thanks for the support, spread the TERROR! You ALL rule!!!!"
Horns High,
Ryan and TS
Within Temptation Expect 2008 DVD Release
According to Komodo Rock, WITHIN TEMPTATION's November 24th show at the Beursgebouw in Eindhoven, Holland was filmed for an upcoming DVD. The sold out show (8,000 capacity) included guest appearances by Anneke van Giersbergen (AQUA DE ANNIQUE, ex-THE GATHERING) and George Oosthoek (ex-ORPHANAGE). A summer 2008 release is expected.
The setlist on the night was as follows: 'The Silent Force' (intro), 'Jillian', 'The Howling', 'Stand My Ground', 'The Cross', 'What Have You Done', 'Hand Of Sorrow', 'The Heart Of Everything', 'Forgiven' (acoustic), 'Restless' (acoustic), 'Somewhere' (acoustic - with Anneke van Giersbergen), 'Memories' (acoustic), 'Our Solemn Hour', 'The Other Half' (with George Oosthoek), 'Angels', 'Mother Earth', 'Frozen', 'Jane Doe', 'The Truth Beneath The Rose', Encore: 'Deceiver Of Fools', 'All I Need', 'Ice Queen'.
Extreme Confirm Reunion Album And Tour
Billboard's Jonathan Cohen (N.Y.) has issued the following report:
Boston-based rock outfit Extreme is reuniting for its first studio album in 13 years and world tour in 2008, Billboard has learned. The group, best known for the 1991 No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hit 'More Than Words', disbanded in 1996 but reformed briefly in 2004 and 2006.
Details are pending on the album, which is being produced by guitarist Nuno Bettencourt, and the tour dates. Extreme now includes original members Bettencourt, frontman Gary Cherone and bassist Pat Badger, along with new drummer Kevin Figueiredo.
Of late, the band has reached a new audience thanks to the inclusion of its song 'Play With Me' in the video game Guitar Hero.
"We realized, not only are the people starved for rock'and'roll, so are we," Bettencourt says. "Let's eat."
Extreme will perform on Saturday (December 1st) at the Boston Music Awards.
Dream Theater Italian Fan Club Closes Down
DREAM THEATER's long-standing Italian fanclub, Italian Dreamers, have closed down after 14 years.
They have issued the following statement:
"It is hard to find the words to write down this announcement and it is for sure the hardest task for us since 1993.
At that time our Fan Club was only a sort of a bet, a bet we have won thanks to the determination and the generosity of some people, joined by the same passion and able to create and preserve with brilliance and devotion an incomparable and unique patrimony made of images and words, and a lot of music. This is a voluminous book in which all of us, together with you, left a little sign. This is a dream lasted 14 years with its ups and downs, sacrifice and nuisances, joys and sorrows for which everyone of us has always given his best to write his part of the story. A story that ends in the best way possible, with everyone happy to be there and celebrate. That was it.
It passed exactly one year from the La Finale contest for the Official Tribute Band in Rimini. The organization of that great event was the hardest and most important job we ever did.
The great success of that night and your estimation have been the greatest satisfaction for all of the people of the fan clubs staff that were there to work for you.
The day after, when we met to arrange the last things left in our cars, there was a second of silence where everyone looked each other in the eyes and said: And now? How can we exceed last night success?. The constant challenge to improve ourselves day by day has always been the Italian Dreamers soul. That day we understood that it would have been hard to accept another challenge and thats why we took the decision, not a sudden one but a decision reached gradually in a time beat by our private life.
It was sheer chance that the name we gave to that event it is now signing the Final step of Italian Dreamers Fan Club.
We have always known only one way to manage the Fan Club: always give 110% of ourselves, always be the example to be followed. That was the only way to give you a part of this great passion produced by this incredible music.
Now our jobs and our families prevails over it and we really think that it is not fair to keep a halting creature alive or entrust it to some unknown opportunist that would accept to keep on this adventure alive only for the pleasure to be named Italian Dreamers.
Time has come, it is time to stop.
We are proud to have spread the disease, we are proud for your support.
Our thanks to everyone and Good Luck!"
Simone e Marco
Italian Dreamers Staff
Slaughter Box Set Due In December
Marquee Records in Brazil is releasing the Tortured Souls Box Set from defunct Canadian death/thrash legends SLAUGHTER. The set features over four hours of pure '80s rage split into four CDs containing demos, rehearsals, live tracks and the hard-to-find Strappado album from 1986. Two massive booklets feature interviews, liner notes, lyrics, pictures. Also included is three exclusive stickers and and a poster. The box set is hand-numbered and limited to 1,100 copies. Shipments will start on December 5th.
Coheed And Cambria Pull Out Of Soundwave Fest
Coheed and Cambria have issued a statement that they will no longer be playing the Soundwave Festival in Australia and Europe as they have changed their tour plans to allow them to support Linkin Park in the United States. The statement follows:
"Dear Australian fans of Coheed and Cambria,
We in Coheed and Cambria regret to inform you that we will not be performing at this year's Soundwave Festival, and will instead come to your shores at the end of March to play our own theater shows.
Linkin Park has personally invited us to support them in the US during this time and after a lot of thought, we have accepted. While this is good news for us and our fans in the US, we realize it is a blow to you down under and in mainland Europe, and we apologize for any inconvenience this will cause.
We plan to announce the rescheduled dates for late March in the coming week. We deeply apologize to everyone at the Soundwave Festival, for all they've done, and how this affects them, but we know that the Festival will be phenomenal with or without us.
See you in March,
Sincerest regards,
Co&Ca"
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