Metal News for November 27, 2007
Last updated on October 6, 2025 at 2:37 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.
Hot Topics
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65 news articles posted on this day.
Gaia Epicus Reveal Tracklisting Of New Album
Norwegian progressive power metallers GAIA EPICUS check in with the following update:
"Album number four will be named Damnation and is set to be released around March 2008. There will be guest musicians playing bass, keys and some guitar solos on this album. More about who is going to play later."
The tracklisting for Damnation is as follows: 'Damnation', 'Masters Of The Sea', 'Firestorm', 'The Wizard's Return (Instrumental)', 'You Are A Liar!', 'Cyborgs From Hell', 'The Saviour (Will Come)', 'A Hero In All' and 'Salvation Is Here'.
Gaia Epicus' Victory is now available as a limited edition with a bonus track. The bonus track is a cover song called 'What Else Is There?', from the Norwegian synth/pop band RÖYKSOPP. The album is currently only available at Epicus Records webshop but is soon to be released to music stores worldwide.
Magrudergrind Post New Song Online
You can check out a new song from MAGRUDERGRIND entitled “Burden” online over at their official MySpace page. The track will be featured on an upcoming powerviolence/grindcore compilation due out in the Spring.
Bolt Thrower Issue Update
UK death metal icons BOLT THROWER have issued the following update regarding their possible performance at the Wacken Open Air 2008:
"Thanks a lot to the 17,484 people who voted in the poll, it was very much appreciated! Poll results here."
"As you know, this time we decided not to decline the Wacken Open Air offer as usual, but to have a poll and hear your views on it first-hand, before making our decision. Obviously we realized that a lot of people who would be voting would not necessarily be into Bolt Thrower, but we were very interested in the comments you would send. In the end we received hundreds of comments, and the huge majority confirmed what we were already thinking, that WOA 2008 is not the right festival for Bolt Thrower." More...
Amon Amarth Issue Update
Swedish Viking metallers AMON AMARTH have issued the following update:
"Our North America tour started a week ago and it's been one hell of a week. Every night, the crowd has been more than awesome. Finally we get to play a full set for our North American fans, and on our own terms. We've been trying out some different songs to make the 'perfect' setlist, and it feels like we got it now. The response we've got about the setlist has been surprisingly positive! Both HIMSA and SONIC SYNDICATE are great guys to tour with and we're happy to have them with us.
Meet and greets have been very successful in the past week. We are very happy to have met many of our fans in person and to have had the chances to talk to many of them. We will be continuing the meet and greets for the rest of the tour, with the exception of the dates where we have in-store signings. Just a reminder, meet and greets will happen for thirty minutes after doors open. So get there early! At the
present moment, there are two scheduled in-store signing sessions. Any more in-store signing sessions will be announced as soon as we get the information." More...
Death Feast Open Air Confirm Cock and Ball Torture
COCK AND BALL TORTURE has been confirmed for the 2008 edition of the Death Feast Open Air festival, set to take place June 12-14, 2008 in Hünxe, Germany. The festival billing is shaping up as follows:
AVULSED (ESP)
BEHEADED (MAL)
BRODEQUIN (USA)
COCK AND BALL TORTURE (GER)
DECAPITATED (POL)
DECREPIT BIRTH (USA)
DEFLORATION (GER)
DEGRADE (SWE)
DERANGED (SWE)
FLESHLESS (CZR)
GOROD (FRA)
HOLOCAUSTO CANIBAL (POR)
IMPALED (USA)
INHUMATE (FRA)
INSISION (SWE)
INVERACITY (GRE)
JAPANISCHE KAMPFHÖRSPIELE (GER)
KATAPLEXIA (FIN)
KRONOS (FRA)
MALEVOLENT CREATION (USA)
ROMPEPROP (HOL)
SINNERS BLEED (GER)
SORE (GER)
SUFFOCATE BASTARD (GER)
UNMERCIFUL (USA)
VERMIS (GER)
WORLD DOWNFALL (GER)
For more information, visit www.deathfeast.de.
Adrift Announce Florida Tour Dates
ADRIFT, the Tampa-based heavy rock band featuring Jack Owen of DEICIDE/CANNIBAL CORPSE fame, has scheduled the following dates:
Nov. 29 - Tampa, FL @ The Brass Mug
Nov. 30 - Casselberry/Orlando, FL @ Hollys and Dollys
Dec. 14 - Tampa, FL @ The Crowbar
Dec. 15 - Ft. Myers, FL @ [to be announced]
ADRIFT's new album, "Absolution", was recorded by David Burrill at The Sample Factory in Youngsville, NC, was mixed by Mark Lewis at Audiohammer Studios in Sanford, FL, and was mastered by Alan Douches at West West Side Music in New Windsor, NY.
To-Mera Reveal "Delusions" Track Listing
TO-MERA is the U.K.-based dark progressive metal band formed by former WITHOUT FACE vocalist Julie Kiss (photo) and bassist Lee Barrett (ex-EXTREME NOISE TERROR, DISGUST, MUSSOLINI HEADKICK), has revealed the track listing for its sophomore album, "Delusions", due on February 18, 2008 via Candlelight Records. A song from the album, entitled "The Lie", has been posted on the group's MySpace page.
"Delusions" (cover artwork by Eliran Kantor) track listing:
01. The Lie
02. Mirage
03. The Glory of a New Day
04. Inside the Hourglass
05. A Sorrow to Kill
06. Asylum
07. Fallen From Grace
08. Temptation More...
Hatesphere Post "Floating" Video Online
Danish thrashers HATESPHERE have released the video for their song "Floating". The clip — which was directed by Casper Balslev, produced by Theis Mortensen and filmed by Steen Linde in Aarhus, Denmark — can be viewed here.
In other news, HATESPHERE will take part in an online chart on Monday, December 3 at 8:00 p.m. Danish time at www.nationx.dk. Both international and Danish fans will be able to join the chat simply by clicking on the HATESPHERE photo. On the day of the chat simply continue by clicking on the "Hatesphere chat" banner. You don't have to be member to take part in the chat. More...
Once Nothing Post New Song Online
Solid State Records issue the following update:
"Hey Everyone -
"Once Nothing just posted a brand new song from their Solid State Records debut album titled "First Came The Law" which hits stores on January 15th! Check out the new song "The Dust Of A Town" now at their Myspace pageand add it to your page by clicking here!"
"- Solid State Records"
Aeturnus Dominion Seek Guitarist
Australian metallers, Aeturnus Dominion, post the following update on their Myspace page:
"Hail,
Yes, unfortunately it's that time again.... Thrax is leaving Aeturnus Dominion at the end of 2007 as he is going overseas early next year for several months."
"This means we are on the hunt for a new lead/rhythm guitarist to join the fold and solidify the lineup. He/she must be dedicated, have the required gear, appropriate attitude and own transport."
"Contact: aeturnusdominion@hotmail.com for more info.
-Ted"
Adrift Post "Held Down" Online
Another song, “Held Down,” has been posted for ADRIFT’s debut full length album, Absolution. Head to the Florida based act’s MySpace to check it out.
Cephalotripsy Post New Song Online
San Diego’s CEPHALOTRIPSY have posted a new song entitled “Inoculated Prosthesis” over at their official MySpace page for your listening pleasure.
Hour of Penance Post New Song Online
You can check out a new song from Italy’s HOUR OF PENANCE entitled “Hideosly Conceived” over at their MySpace page. The track comes off the band’s forthcoming new album, The Vile Conception, which is set for a February 23rd release through Unique Leader Records.
Supreme Pain Joined By Fondlecorpse Guitarist
Guitarist Bas Brussaard of Dutch death metallers FONDLECORPSE has joined SUPREME PAIN as second guitarist. You can check the band out online here.
Disfear Post "Get It Off" Online For Download
Sweden’s DISFEAR have posted an advance download track, “Get It Off,” from their forthcoming album Live The Storm. “Get It Off” can be heard now via Disfear.com and the band’s official MySpace page.
DISFEAR recorded Live The Storm, the follow-up to 2003’s Misanthropic Generation, with CONVERGE guitarist Kurt Ballou at his God City Studios in Salem, MA. The complete tracklisting is as follows:
01. Get It Off
02. Fiery Father
03. Deadweight
04. The Cage
05. The Furnace
06. Live The Storm
07. Testament
08. In Exodus
09. Maps of War
10. Phantom More...
Stream Never Enough's Entire Debut Album
NEVER ENOUGH, featuring ex-members of EIGHTEEN VISIONS and LYLAH, have streamed their entire debut album at the following location. The band will release their debut, self-titled album (”1.0“) in North America on December 4th, 2007 via Corporate Punishment Records.
Crowpath Post New Song Online
Sweden’s CROWPATH have posted a new song entitled “Thieves” over at their official MySpace page. The track comes off their recent split with SUBMERGE.
Defeated Sanity Announce East Coast Dates
German brutal death metallers DEFEATED SANITY will team up with MUCOPUS, COPREMESIS, and CESSPOOL for the following East Coast tour dates next year:
May 20 - Boston, MA @ O’Brien’s w/ Sexcrement
May 21 - New York, NY @ T.B.A.
May 22 - Philadelphia, PA @ T.B.A. w/ Sexcrement
May 23-25 - Baltimore, MD @ Maryland Deathfest VI *
* = Defeated Sanity and Copremesis only.
Twisted Sister Frontman Talks Quiet Riot Singer
TWISTED SISTER frontman Dee Snider has released the following statement regarding the passing of QUIET RIOT singer Kevin DuBrow:
"Kevin DuBrow is dead. This hits pretty damn hard.
"QUIET RIOT and TWISTED SISTER had a lot of respect for each other. The basis for this came from the fact that both QUIET RIOT and TWISTED SISTER formed in 1973 — long before the rebirth of heavy metal or 'hair metal,' as it came to be known, in the '80s. When QUIET RIOT (on the West Coast) and TWISTED SISTER (on the East Coast) were formed, it was an outgrowth of the glam rock movement of the early '70s and both our bands fought the good fight against the onslaught that was disco (ugh!). When most other bands gave up or switched allegiances to what was more commercially viable at the time, both of our bands refused to bend — or break, for that matter — and carried the torch for heavy rock through the dark days of the mid-to-late '70s. As a result, QUIET RIOT were not only at the forefront to the L.A. metal scene, they were the inspiration for many other bands who went on to find fame and fortune.
"If you were to look back at old issues of L.A. music papers, you'd see every band who ever became anything out of L.A. opening for QUIET RIOT. And it was Kevin DuBrow and QUIET RIOT's perseverance and refusal to take no for an answer that literally destroyed the barriers of the record industry, television and commercial radio and opened the door for all metal bands to follow into the promised land. And we all know the glory days of metal that followed.
"Thank you, Kevin.
"And because TWISTED SISTER was doing, and had done, the same thing for the music scene on the East Coast, our two bands have always shared a mutual respect for one another. We know that none of the other bands (with the possible exception of Y&T, who were doing pretty much the same thing in Northern California) had been through the shit that we'd been through. We had earned our battle scars and our right to stand on those coliseum stages...while we felt many others had not.
"It's because of this connection that the passing of Kevin DuBrow hits us particularly hard. You've all heard the saying, 'There by the grace of God go I.' Well, it's never been truer than now.
"The metal community has lost a powerful voice and a great frontman, but let it never be said that Kevin DuBrow did not leave his mark. You kicked our asses, Kevin, you really did."
Iron Maiden To Headline Gods Of Metal Festival
British heavy metal legends IRON MAIDEN have been confirmed as the main headliner at Italy's Gods of Metal festival on Friday, June 27 as part of the band's "Somewhere Back In Time World Tour 2008".
The three-day festival (June 27-29) will take place at the Arena Parco Nord in Bologna, with tickets going on sale on Thursday, November 29 at noon.
This will be the third time the band has headlined the festival, helping it grow to be Italy's premier metal event. It wil also be the group's only Italian performance in 2008.
For more information, visit www.godsofmetal.it.
On February 5, 2008 MAIDEN will release the hightly anticipated DVD of "Live after Death" and to tie in with this will play songs mainly from their classic '80s albums on this forthcoming tour. The stage production will also feature a production-based on the Egyptian-themed "Powerslave Tour" which was featured on the original 1985 video release of "Live after Death".
Terror Frontman Interview Posted
Frontman Scott Vogel of 21st century hardcore leaders TERROR recently took time out from his busy touring schedule with CHIMAIRA, DIVINE HERESY, and KATAKLYSM to sit down with MetalSucks to discuss the tour, the band's new EP, their relationship with former label Trustkill Records and what Japanese hardcore crowds are like. An excerpt from the chat follows:
MetalSucks: So you guys just put out a new EP, "Rhythm Amongst the Chaos". How did that come about?
Vogel: It came about due to the fact that our label, Trustkill, um… y'know, we had wanted to, maybe two years ago, do the EP. It's a tiny label that put it out, Reaper Records, one of our really good friends, and our label [Trustkill] wasn't so into the idea of us doing [the EP] with another label. So we've recently put out an album on Trustkill, fulfilled our contract, and we're free to do what we want now. So we did it really kind of DIY — we recorded it in our drummer's studio, like where we record our demos, and, y'know, put it out on a tiny label with our friends for fun.
MetalSucks: And you have some cool guest appearances on it…
Vogel: Vinnie Paz from the JEDI MIND TRICK… I don't know if anyone here at MetalSucks listens to hip-hop — maybe they actually do if the site is called "MetalSucks" (laughs)… Um, JEDI MIND TRICK is a hip-hop group from Philly, and he's our friend and he loves hardcore and he loves metal and we just thought it'd be cool if, instead of having him rap, we had him actually scream and he sounded great so…
MetalSucks: So speaking of metal sucking, you guys are definitely unique to this tour in that you're the only hardcore band on the bill. Do you feel like the line between metal and hardcore are dissolving now?
Vogel: Well, we've done some tours, y'know, we've played with BEHEMOTH, we've played with all sorts of bands… we're very open minded. I mean, I listen to everything from SLAYER to HOT WATER MUSIC to GANG STAR and everything in between. Y'know, we're definitely kind of the fish out of water on this tour, and I know there will be some people that will come to the shows that don't really wanna hear us, which is totally fine with me — there's a lot of bands I don't wanna hear — but, y'know, I wanna play to anyone at anytime, any place. I definitely don't wanna come to New York every time and play to the same people — that kind of defeats the purpose of making music, so… it's a really good opportunity for us, and I just have fun, y'know? So we're definitely down for whatever.
Read the full article at this location.
Linkin Park, Coheed And Cambria Dates Revealed
Billboard.com reports that LINKIN PARK will hit the road in North America early next year with support from prog rock combo COHEED AND CAMBRIA. The tour begins February 12 in Omaha, Nebraska, and has dates on tap through March 8 in West Valley, Utah.
Fans can opt for a "digital souvenir package" when ordering show tickets, which includes an audio download of the complete concert, photos from the gig and a digital tour program.
The tour dates are as follows:
Feb. 12 - Omaha, NE @ Qwest Center
Feb. 13 - St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center
Feb. 15 - Columbus, OH @ Nationwide Arena
Feb. 16 - Detroit, MI @ Joe Louis Arena
Feb. 18 - Manchester, NH @ Verizon Wireless Arena
Feb. 19 - Baltimore, MD @ 1st Mariner Arena
Feb. 21 - New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden
Feb. 22 - Montreal, QUE @ Bell Centre
Feb. 23 - London, ONT @ LaBatt Centre
Feb. 25 - Lexington, KY @ Rupp Arena
Feb. 26 - Nashville, TN @ Sommet Center
Feb. 29 - Oklahoma City, OK @ Ford Center
Mar. 01 - Albuquerque, NM @ Tingley Coliseum
Mar. 02 - El Paso, TX @ Don Haskins Center
Mar. 08 - West Valley, UT @ E Center
Heaven And Hell Drummer Issues Post Tour Update
Drum legend Vinny Appice has issued the following update:
"Well the HEAVEN AND HELL tour has finally ended after performing 98 shows in 98 cities in numerous countries around the world, not bad!
It was the best tour this band has ever done and just playing with these guys again was totally amazing. No one in this band has ever let up or let down in all the years of playing together, it just kicked ass every night!
I had the pleasure of trying to destroy the drums every night playing some of the heaviest rock classics in rock, nice!
A big thanks to all the fans and family who have made this gathering a success and big thanks to the management and crew who made it happen."
Destruction To Appear At Mexican Festival
German thrashers DESTRUCTION check in with the following quick update:
"Good news for the Mexico City thrashers. We did just get the following festival confirmation: March 8th, 2008 - Mexico City, Mexico - Metal Attack 2 Festival / Circo Volador."
As previously reported, Destruction are also confirmed for the 2008 edition of Serbia's Legacy Festival, scheduled for May 30th - 31st at Ushce in Belgrade.
Other acts scheduled for the festival include: DARK FUNERAL, THRESHOLD, OBITUARY, JORN LANDE, AMORPHIS, MELECHESH, RAGE, UNLEASHED, FINNTROLL.
Epica Cancel Mexican, Columbian Dates
Dutch female-fronted symphonic metallers EPICA have postponed their previously announced Mexican and Colombian dates due to an illness suffered by the group's lead singer, Simone Simons.
The affected dates are as follows:
Nov. 29 - Circo Volador - Mexico City Mexico
Nov. 30 - Teatro Estudio Cavaret - Guadalajara Mexico
Dec. 01 - Cafe Iguana - Monterrey Mexico
Dec. 05 - Downtown Majestic - Bogota Colombia
Dec. 07 - Country San Manuel - Puebla Mexico
Dec. 08 - Skyros concert and music hall - San Luis Potosi Mexico
Dec. 09 - Circo Volador - Mexico City Mexico
EPICA played a gig last night (November 26) at the Melkweg in Amsterdam, Holland without Simone, with the group's setlist consisting of mostly "grunt-oriented" songs.
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.
Overkill Announce February DVD Release
According to Headbanger's Blog, veteran New Jersey thrash band OVERKILL will release its second DVD, "Live at Wacken Open Air 2007", on February 5.
The 50-minute disc was shot during the band’s headline set at the festival in front of an audience of 40,000, and will feature songs that span OVERKILL's 28-year career, including "Walk Through Fire" from the group's new disc "Immortalis", "Rotten to the Core", "Elimination", "Fuck You", "In Union We Stand", "Necroshine", "Skull and Bones", "Old School" and "Wrecking Crew".
The show was previously released as the limited-edition bonus DVD in the Germany digipack edition of "Immortalis".
"Live at Wacken Open Air 2007" track listing:
01. Rotten to the Core
02. Elimination
03. Necroshine
04. Thanx for Nothin'
05. Skull and Bones
06. In Union We Stand
07. Walk through Fire
08. Wrecking Crew
09. Old School
10. Fuck You
OVERKILL's last DVD, "Wrecking Everything: Live", came out in 2002 and was re-released October 2.
OVERKILL recently completed a short tour in support of "Immortalis". The trek began on October 3 in Elmira, NY at The The Amp and concluded with a special appearance at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill in New York City on Sunday, October 21.
"Immortalis" sold 2,800 copies in the United States in its first week of release, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
Issued on October 9 via Bodog Music, the CD marks OVERKILL's reunion with Jonny and Marsha Zazula, previous owners of Megaforce Records, the label responsible for putting metal on the map and bringing OVERKILL's New Jersey thrash metal to the world. The Zazulas are now a part of the Bodog Music team in the United States.
"Immortalis" is the follow-up to 2005's "RelixIV", which has sold around 16,000 copies in the U.S. to date, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
OVERKILL's top-selling album of the SoundScan era (1991-) is "Horrorscope", which has shifted around 118,000 units in the U.S. since its 1991 release (there is no SoundScan data available for LPs sold prior to 1991).
Van Halen Reveal More 2008 Tour Dates
More 2008 dates have been announced for VAN HALEN's tour with original lead singer David Lee Roth.
The Live Nation-produced trek — featuring Roth, Eddie and Alex Van Halen and Eddie Van Halen's teenage son Wolfgang on bass — kicked off Sept. 27 in Charlotte, N.C., with 40 dates in place.
The current tour is Roth's first with the Van Halen brothers in more than 20 years. VAN HALEN last toured in 2004 with vocalist Sammy Hagar, grossing nearly $40 million, according to Billboard Boxscore.
VAN HALEN 2008 tour dates:
Jan. 22 - Oklahoma City, OK @ Ford Center
Jan. 24 - San Antonio, TX @ AT&T Center
Jan. 26 - Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center
Jan. 28 - Houston, TX @ Toyota Center
Feb. 01 - Denver, CO @ Pepsi Center
Feb. 04 - Omaha, NE @ Qwest Center Omaha
Feb. 08 - New Orleans, LA @ New Orleans Arena
Feb. 12 - Sunrise, FL @ BankAtlantic Center
Feb. 16 - Jacksonville, FL @ Jacksonville Veterans Mem. Arena
Feb. 18 - Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum
Feb. 22 - Charlottesville, VA @ John Paul Jones Arena
Mar. 05 - Cincinnati, OH @ U.S. Bank Arena
Mar. 07 - Raleigh, NC @ RBC Center
Mar. 09 - Baltimore, MD @ 1st Mariner Arena
Mar. 11 - Manchester, NH @ Verizon Wireless Arena
Mar. 13 - East Rutherford, NJ @ Izod Center
Mar. 17 - New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden Arena
Mar. 19 - Hershey, PA @ Giant Center
Mar. 21 - Pittsburgh, PA @ Mellon Arena
Mar. 24 - Providence, RI @ Dunkin' Donuts Center
Mar. 26 - Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Sun
Mar. 28 - Atlantic City, NJ @ Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall
Mar. 30 - Saint Louis, MO @ Scottrade Center
Apr. 01 - Columbus, OH @ Schottenstein Center
Apr. 03 - Rosemont, IL @ Allstate Arena
Apr. 05 - Grand Rapids, MI @ Van Andel Arena
Apr. 07 - Milwaukee, WI @ Bradley Center
Brutal Fight Calls It Quits
Washington hardcore band Brutal Fight is breaking up after nearly eight years together. The band released an album with Strike First Records in 2005. Their final show will take place on December 21st at The Signal in Vancouver, WA with American Me, Unrestrained, and Passing In Dreams.
Killswitch Engage Bassist "No Album Before 2009"
KILLSWITCH ENGAGE bassist Mike D'Antonio has told Billboard.com that his group is unlikely to release a new studio album before 2009.
"We are considering starting an album at the end of next year at this point," D'Antonio said. "We're not gonna stop touring on this record ('As Daylight Dies') until at least the end of April, and I know we're probably going to do a run of all the festivals in Europe in June and July. After that, I believe then we're gonna start talking about writing a new record."
KILLSWITCH's 2004 release, "The End of Heartache", was recently certified gold. "We've always been one of those bands that's just slow and steady selling, not one of those pop artists that sell a million off the bat," D'Antonio noted. "We just chug along, the little band that could. Our accountant came to us and was like, 'You guys really need to think about getting houses or you're gonna get screwed on taxes pretty bad.' I guess that shows the band's working out."
Ruiner Tour Schedule
Ruiner will tour much of the U.S. this winter, including treks with Killing The Dream and Broadway Calls. Here are the tour dates:
12/27 Harrisonburg, VA @ Jimdel's
12/28 Charlotte, NC @ Creation Skatepark w/ Pulling Teeth, LOJ
12/29 Charleston, SC @ The Oasis
Tour dates w/ Killing The Dream
12/30 Daytona Beach, FL @ The Backstage (This is For You Fest)
12/31 Miami, FL @ Klein Dance Studio
1/1 Jacksonville, FL @ Fuel Coffee House
1/2 Birmingham, AL @ Cave 9
1/3 Nashville, TN @ The Anchor
1/4 Oklahoma City, OK @ The Plank Road Collective
1/5 Houston, TX @ Walters w/ Die Young
1/6 Austin, TX @ TBA
1/7 Wichita Falls, TX @ TBA
1/8 Albuquerque, NM @ TBA
1/9 Tucson, AZ @ The Living Room
1/10 Tijuana, MEX @ Voodoo House
1/11 Corona, CA @ Showcase w/ Final Fight
1/12 Berkeley, CA @ Gilman w/ Surroundings
Tour dates w/ Broadway Calls
1/13 Redding, CA @ TBA w/ Surroundings
1/14 Portland, OR @ Satyricon
1/15 Seattle, WA @ Seattle VFW
1/16 Vancouver, BC @ TBA
1/17 Vancouver Island, BC @ TBA
1/18 Longview, WA @ Reids Pitstop
1/19 Orangevale, CA @ Orangevale VFW
1/20 Fresno, CA @ House Show - 2369 S Grace St
1/21 Las Vegas, NV @ TBA
1/22 Gallup, NM @ TBA
1/23 Denver, CO @ Sox Place
1/24 Leavenworth, KS @ Groundworks
1/25 St. Louis, MO @ 2 Cents Plain
1/26 Louisville, KY @ The Brick House
1/27 Johnson City, TN @ The Hideaway
Behemoth Frontman Checks In
BEHEMOTH mainman Adam "Nergal" Darski has issued the following update:
"It feels great to finally be back in Poland, especially after spending the last eight months intensely touring across almost every corner of the globe. I'm very proud and satisfied at the same time: our live activities have never been so splendorous and prestigious. Now we're going to enjoy a well-deserved two week vacation before we hit the shores of Australia and New Zealand.
"We just completed our first co-headlining tour in the U.S. The Radio Rebellion tour was nothing but massive success. It was a real honor to share the stage with one of the best extreme metal acts in the scene now. Canada's BENEATH THE MASSACRE, France's GOJIRA and America's JOB FOR A COWBOY were not just awesome bands but also the nicest people to hang out and work with. It made this tour so much better. I'd never guessed this bill could pull so many people pretty much everywhere. It's a great reward for all these crazy years of working our asses off and pushing so hard. I'm so happy we finally managed to bring bigger production, all the new stage gear, lights, backdrops so finally people could get a taste of what the definitive BEHEMOTH performance should look like. Seeing big smiles on those people's faces every night they were leaving the venue assured me we did a good fuckin' job. I've also noticed that a big part of the crowd coming to the shows have been younger. Seems like there's whole new generation of people discovering extreme metal and it feels very refreshing. We wanna thank everyone who came down to the show. You made this tour one of the brightest moments of both, our career and life.
“This past year was probably the craziest year in my life. All the things would be happening at the same time: making of the record, all the technical and logistic problems, moving in to the new apartment, politicians trying to ban us in Poland and all the touring that started before the record was even finished. We've been working so fuckin' hard, there was more stress and nerves involved that ever. But at the same time I can't say we didn't have fun. We did. Sometimes maybe even too much, ha ha…in the end of the day, it was all worth it. It's also extremely satisfying to see 'The Apostasy' outselling 'Demigod' only a few months after its release. I'm still so fuckin' stoked that people loved the record that was even more extreme, diverse and technical than anything we've done before. Seems like everyone (fans, media, critics) really took notice and appreciate all the giant work we invested. All I can say is that it only encourages us to work even harder in the future. We have a very demanding schedule for next year and I advice you to sit tight and wait for some very exciting news coming early next year. There are some major plans in the works to create a perfect set up for our future activities.
"There's definitely going to be more touring next year. We'll be doing second European leg with KATAKLYSM and we‘ll visit all the markets we didn't make last time. We are also coming back to U.S. for another big tour around March. We'll be touring South America and possibly Japan (cross fingers!) in the spring. From there on we should take a long break, doing only off shows and occasional festivals. Next year we're going to focus on the next DVD, EP and new album. We already have some sick ideas but its way to early to reveal any details yet. You just have to wait and be surprised!"
A six-minute video clip documenting BEHEMOTH's recent touring madness can be viewed below. More...
With Blood Comes Cleansing Drops Off Tour
With Blood Comes Cleansing has dropped off the remainder of their tour with Carnifex, and has also cancelled their upcoming tour with A Plea For Purging. The following statement has been issued:
"We've been out with My Children My Bride and Carnifex for the past three weeks and it's been an incredible tour! But sadly, our vocalist has been sick for the majority of the time. When we were in San Antonio for Thanksgiving we took Dean to a doctor to figure out why he was sick and wasn't getting better. Turns out his throat and tonsils are swollen several times their size, and his airway was almost completely shut. The doctors said if he didn't stop immediately he would cause permanent damage to his vocal chords.
"So being without a singer, we've had to drop off the last few days of our tour with MCMB and Carnifex, and will not be going to the west coast with A Plea For Purging. Sorry to those of you who were coming out to the shows to see us. Please support A Plea For Purging as they will be touring out west!
"Be on the lookout for some weekend shows in the southeast. We'll announce them as we get things booked. For those of you who pray, please keep Dean in your prayers."
Watch Fall Out Boy Cover Pantera's "Walk"
EVERY TIME I DIE singer Keith Buckley joined FALL OUT BOY onstage for a cover of PANTERA's "Walk" on November 19 in Buffalo, New York. This reportedly took place during a secret FALL OUT BOY show at the Mohawk Place where they performed under the name SCHRUTE FARMS.
Fan-filmed video footage of the atrocity performance can be viewed on YouTube or below. More...
Interview
Horse The Band's Erik Engstrom Interviewed
An experimental metalcore band, Horse The Band is well known for their achievement of an 8-bit video game-influenced sound, resulting in the band often being referred to as "Nintendocore." Their keyboardist, Erik Engstrom, uses the Korg MS-2000 and more recently, the Roland Juno-D synthesizer and LSDJ Gameboy cartridge to create their trademark sound.
Horse The Band's songs include Cut Man from Mega Man, although the song is spelled "Cutsman"; Birdo, one of the bosses from the NES game Super Mario Bros. 2, in the song "Birdo"; and the rabbit-like nemesis from The Legend of Zelda in the song "Pol's Voice". The song "A Million Exploding Suns" refers to the Marvel Comics character Sentry, a schizophrenic hero with this abundance of power.
2007's "A Natural Death" featured significant lyrical evolution into the concepts of nature and mortality while moving slightly away from the Nintendo metaphors. The song "Murder" is inspired by the Western novel "Lonesome Dove," in which a Native American named Blue Duck stalks and kills white settlers on the plains.
HORSE the Band is known for their tremendously energetic live performances; their Halloween show at the First Unitarian Church in Philadelphia was filled with props and costumes.
Current band members include: Nathan Winneke (vocals), Chris Prophet (drums), David Isen (guitar), Dashiell Arkenstone (bass), and Erik Engstrom (Synthesizer/LSDJ)
I met up with Horse The Band in their van before their show, to listen to what they had to say about their tour and the new album. More...
John 5's Loser Updates MySpace Player
Loser, the former side project of Rob Zombie guitarist and ex-Marilyn Manson guitarist John 5, has updated their MySpace player with four new tracks that would have appeared on their debut album 'Just Like You'. The band split and were dropped from Island Records before the album was released after John 5 decided to continue touring with Rob Zombie.
Drummer Glendon Crain went on to join Godhead, vocalist Joe Grah is currently in South of Earth which also includes former Filter guitarist Geno Lenardo.
Roadrunner To Release "The Best Of Spineshank"
Roadrunner Records will be releasing a Spineshank best of album titled 'The Best Of Spineshank' on January 29th, check out the tracklist below:
1. Violent Mood Swings
2. Smothered
3. Stillborn
4. Dead To Me
5. Asthmatic
6. The Height Of Callousness
7. New Disease
8. Synthetic
9. Cyanide 2600
10. Detached
11. Where We Fall
12. Shinebox
Engrave Guitarist Killed By Brother In Law
Guitarist Mario Gutierrez of the Los Angeles-based death/thrash band ENGRAVE died late last week of gunshot wounds sustained during an argument with his brother-in-law. According to the Los Angeles Times, Gutierrez, a 37-year-old Latino man, was shot in El Sereno, California at about 10:45 p.m. on November 22, Thanksgiving, and died at the scene. LAPD Hollenbeck detectives said that Gutierrez and his brother-in-law got into an argument during the family's Thanksgiving gathering over a remark the brother-in-law had made about Gutierrez's wife. The argument escalated to pushing and shoving, then spilled out onto the street where Gutierrez was shot. The 27-year-old brother-in-law turned himself into a police a few hours later.
Combining former members of local bands BRAINSTORM and ENTITY, ENGRAVE was formed in Los Angeles in early 1997, according to All Music Guide. With a sound showcasing elements of both traditional death and early thrash metal, the band featured Emilio Marquez, Mario Gutierrez, Adrian Villanueva, and Robert Cardenas. Their first album, "The Rebirth", was issued through SOD magazine's own independent imprint in 1998. A demo, called "The Infernal Bleeding", followed in 1999, and 2001 saw their debut reissued with bonus tracks by WWIII Records. Jimmy Ash replaced Villanueva prior to the band's performance at the Milwaukee Metalfest later that year.
Poster For Bruce Dickinson Movie Revealed
A poster for IRON MAIDEN frontman Bruce Dickinson's upcoming supernatural horror-thriller inspired by noted occultist Aleister Crowley called "Chemical Wedding" can be found at this location.
As previously reported, "Chemical Wedding" wrapped principal photography in September with Julian Doyle at the helm. The film stars Simon Callow as a reincarnation of Crowley, once dubbed "the most evil man in Britain." Callow's character, Haddo, is a shy, stuttering professor.
The film will be released in Britain and Ireland by Warner Bros. The studio also has a first-look option on other territories.
"My experience with stages is obviously IRON MAIDEN and that sort of stuff," Bruce said. "I've directed a few videos over the course of my rock 'n' roll past and I enjoyed them, I enjoyed directing videos. Writing movies a completely different thing. I wrote a couple of absurd comic novels — that came out as well, and you know, they did OK actually. So, writing is something that's always sort of interested me, so this seemed like a good opportunity to learn the process, really."
Dickinson is not the first rocker to be inspired by Crowley, who died in 1947. LED ZEPPELIN guitarist Jimmy Page was a big collector of Crowley's writings and even bought his Scottish estate. OZZY OSBOURNE, meanwhile, eulogized him in the song "Mr. Crowley".
Panic Cell Thanks Fans
The following message has been posted via Panic Cell's official Myspace:
"Well that's our first headline tour all finished!!
We'd like to thank everyone involved in October/Novembers date: our crew, all the bands that played on the tour (special thanks to our touring buddies & their crews Speed Theory, Macabre Deluxe, Forever Never, Man of the Hour & IdefI) Dave & Lyn at Dark Energy Merchandise, Jen, Nick & Chris at everyone at the Lynton Hotel in Western Super Mare, the promotors who put on the shows but most of all a huge thank you to everyone that came to watch the shows..you rule!!!!! If you came to a show on the tour, drop us a comment on our myspace page so we can thank you personally
We've a few more dates in December (see below) and we're working on another run of headline dates in March/April to places not visted on the recent tour and there's much more to come in 2008!
Thanks again
Panic Cell"
Panic Cell will perform at the upcoming Shows
14 Dec 2007
Queens Hall - Panic Cell Headline XMAS show - Nuneaton
15 Dec 2007
Islington Academy - with Carnivore & Raging Speedhorn - London
16 Dec 2007
Jillys Rockworld - with Carnivore & Raging Speedhorn - Manchester
Slash Loses Suitcase At Airport
According to Metro.co.uk, former GUNS N' ROSES and current VELVET REVOLVER guitarist Slash has revealed that his suitcase was misplaced when he recently jetted into the UK, reports The Independent.
"It has got loads of really expensive jewelry and all my leather trousers in," he is quoted as saying.
Slash reportedly added that it meant he had to wear the same clothes for three days.
The guitarist continued: "I saw one suitcase that looked like mine. I would have taken it but could have ended up walking around London in someone else's dress."
Nick Barker Added To Death Tribute Show
The Canadian Tribute to DEATH and founder Chuck Schuldiner is being held on December 12th at the Theatre Imperial in Quebec City, QC. Organizer Martin Bouchard has issued the following update:
"We have two more names to announce for our ultimate Death tribute gig. The seventh name is a bit less known to the many Death followers but he was a part of their history. On the Perseverance tour, he was Richard Christy's drum tech ... Jonathan Lee. Over the last few years, he's been involved with THE AUTUMN OFFERING (studio) and ACHERON.
The eighth name will complete the lists of drummers. He's one of the most respected drummers in the metal community. He's been a member of CRADLE OF FILTH, DIMMU BORGIR and many more ... Nicholas Barker.
Death is one of his favorite bands and Gene Hoglan one of his influence.
Now, a little more about the way things will work on that special night:
VIP ticket holders will be allowed in the venue 30 minutes before the rest of the crowd. They will also be a part of the private party to be held right after the show with all the musicians and organizers. Every VIP will receive a poster of the show to be signed by the musicians of their choice. All proceeds of the night will be donated to the late Chuck Shuldiner's foundation as well as a local foundation taking care of sick children."
Musicians confirmed to take part in the Canadian Tribute To DEATH:
Drummer
1- Nicholas Barker (ex-Dimmu Borgir ex-Cradle Of Filth, etc)
2- Jonathan Less (The Autumn Offering, ex-Acheron)
3- Antoine Baril (SYMBOLIC)
Bass
1- Scott Clendenin (Death 1996-1999)
2- Alexis Robitaille (Symbolic)
3- Daniel Perron (ex-Symbolic)
Guitar
1- Shannon Hamm (Death 1996-2001)
2- Bobby Koelble (Death 1995)
3- Ralph Santolla (Death 1993, OBITUARY, ex-DEICIDE, ex-ICED EARTH)
4- Daniel Mongrain (MARTYR)
5- Marc-André Gingras (QUO VADIS)
6- Matthew Sweeney (Symbolic)
7- Mike Sweeney (Symbolic)
51 Wrecking Crew Recording Debut CD
The following message has been posted by 51 Wrecking Crew's bassist via their Myspace:
"Hey guys and gals...
just a quick update, recording is back on track
and sounding pretty good.. we'll be done before christmas
so get your stockings ready!
4D"
The band have only been playing for a few months but have already gained a cult like following and fanbase in the Swindon metal scene.
The band features bassist 4D (ex-Prometheus) and guitarist/vocalist Tom Norris (ex-Kilians Red)
Airbourne Frontman Slams Jet And Wolfmother
Joel O'Keefe, lead singer and guitarist for Australian "pub rockers" AIRBOURNE, recently explained to ChartAttack.com exactly what separates his band from the rest of the Aussie pack.
"JET and WOLFMOTHER are not for real. We are," he said. "That's the difference. They're not for real. They're doing it to be cool, and you can tell. They're starting to lose their fire. They're not Aussie pub rock. You can tell an Aussie pub rock band from a mile away. Like ROSE TATTOO, for example, that's an Aussie pub rock band. AC/DC were an Aussie pub rock band with Bon Scott. WOLFMOTHER and JET are a bad example of rock that comes out of Australia. They're just carbon copies of something they want... they're wannabes. They're like 'American Idol' or something like that. They're not legit."
Roadrunner Records will release AIRBOURNE's "Runnin' Wild" debut in North America on January 29, and O'Keefe is confident that his band will be able to translate the success they've enjoyed in Australia, where the record was released in the summer. That's something that other Aussie rockers like POWDERFINGER and SILVERCHAIR haven't been fully able to do.
"Well, POWDERFINGER and SILVERCHAIR, one important thing, they're both not rock 'n' roll bands," O'Keefe said. "Two, they're not concentrating on those markets enough.
"They got families back home in Australia and they don't get out over there as much as we intend to. We intend to move [to the U.S.] for good. Australia will become a tourist destination for us. We're all going to live in a house together. We've been living in Melbourne together as a band for three years. Our production manager is coming with us, so there's going to be five of us in the house."
Annihilator Guitarist Talks Quiet Riot Singer
Guitarist Jeff Waters of the long-running Canadian thrashers ANNIHILATOR has posted the following message on the band's official forum:
"QUIET RIOT had an impact on me when I was a teen and when I wasn't listening to their music, I was playing it or seeing a cover band that was playing it! 'Metal Health' was a brilliant record and his voice and [guitarist Carlos] Cavazo's playing was damn good for that time... and very influential to many others. From [bassist Rudy] Sarzo licking his thumb to the spandex and posing; pure cheese but great cheese! Their music was rock and metal and party music all in one.
"It is a sad day for metal, as DuBrow and QUIET RIOT helped, in their own way, make metal what it has become today.
"RIP, dude. You will be missed by many and thanks for the memories and the music."
Twisted Sister Post New Video Online
TWISTED SISTER's video for the song "Silver Bells" can be viewed below. The track comes off the group's 2006 collection, "A Twisted Christmas", which features rock n' roll versions of beloved Christmas classics.
On September 25, Razor & Tie Entertainment released "A Twisted Christmas Live", a DVD of TWISTED SISTER's holiday 2006 show at New Jersey's legendary Starland Ballroom. The DVD features performances of tunes from "A Twisted Christmas", as well as TWISTED SISTER's greatest hits.
TWISTED SISTER's Dee Snider and Jay Jay French recently stopped by the VH1 Classic offices to present Autism Speaks/Cure Autism Now with a check for $17,000. The check represents the proceeds from TWISTED SISTER's "A Twisted Christmas", the rockin' holiday album that enamored both critics and fans alike.
Formed in 1976, TWISTED SISTER ruled the radio airwaves and MTV in the 1980s with such monster hits as "We're Not Gonna Take It" and "I Wanna Rock". To date, the band has sold over 10 million albums worldwide, boasts 34 silver, gold and platinum certifications from 8 countries and has toured in 22 different countries. TWISTED SISTER has given over 9,000 performances in their thirty-year career. More...
Moonspell Log Studio Time
MOONSPELL are booked in Denmark’s Antfarm Studios with acclaimed producer Tue Madsen through January 2008. This stint will follow their pre-production work in Portugal at Waldemar Sorchta which will last through November 30.
Motley Crue Bassist Remembers Quiet Riot Singer
MÖTLEY CRÜE bassist Nikki Sixx has released the following statement to Saviours Of Rock regarding the passing of QUIET RIOT singer Kevin DuBrow:
"I was thinking about sitting in Kevin's apartment in 1979. I had just been over to [late QUIET RIOT/OZZY OSBOURNE guitarist] Randy Rhoads' (who still lived with his mom at the time) learning some of their songs. Randy called Kevin while I was there and told him they should get me to be the bass player in QUIET RIOT. I passed... 'cause we all had a destiny.
"Today is a sad day.
"[Kevin] always did what he loved most — music — and always said what was on his mind. And that is the measure of a man.
"He will be missed.
"I'm grateful to have those early memories.... before the fame, just kids with dreams.
"I send my love and support to his family and friends... I know this is a hard time."
Watch QUIET RIOT "performing" the song "Party All Night" on a TV show in 1984: More...
Avantasia Enter German And Swedish Charts
AVANTASIA's "Lost in Space - Part 1" and "Lost in Space - Part 2" EPs have entered the official Swedish chart at position No. 3 and No. 4, respectively. In Germany the CD landed at No. 9 on the Media Control chart. It is the highest single chart entry in the history of Nuclear Blast Records.
Commented AVANTASIA mastermind Tobias Sammet (also of EDGUY): "It doesn't really matter if it's a Top 10 hit or not, most important is that I am happy with it and most fans seem to enjoy the material too. It seems like there are a lot of people out there who appreciate honest hand made music
Apart from the identical title track, both releases feature completely different, exclusive songs plus videos, a poster, studio reports, a "making-of," a slideshow, and loads of enhanced bonus material, each for the price of a CD single.
AVANTASIA will perform at next year's Wacken Open Air festival, set to take place July 31 - August 2, 2008 in Wacken, Germany. Also scheduled to appear are IRON MAIDEN (headliners), CHILDREN OF BODOM and KREATOR, among others.
In a recent interview, Sammet described the music on the new AVANTASIA CD as "diversified, pomp metal with some classic rock elements, Classic orchestrated moments and Celtic stuff, a big timeless production and so on and so forth. It's going to consist of many different elements. Bombastic kick-ass music with a lot of heart and depth."
The new AVANTASIA album will be a concept album featuring different singers singing different characters in a story. But the concept itself won't be a sequel to the first two AVANTASIA albums.
AVANTASIA's last release was the two-part epic called "The Metal Opera" (issued in 2001 and 2002), which featured an impressive array of guest vocalists playing the various characters of the opera, including Michael Kiske (ex-HELLOWEEN), David DeFeis (VIRGIN STEELE), Sharon Den Adel (WITHIN TEMPTATION), Kai Hansen (GAMMA RAY), André Matos (ANGRA, SHAAMAN), Timo Tolkki (STRATOVARIUS), Rob Rock (WARRIOR), and others.
Tony Martin Pays Tribute To Cozy Powell
Former BLACK SABBATH singer Tony Martin has issued the following update:
"There is a Cozy Powell [late RAINBOW, MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP, BLACK SABBATH, WHITESNAKE, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN drummer] memorial year coming up. Can you believe it's been 10 years since he died? I've been asked to contribute in various ways. There are various magazines and books being released next year commenting on the life of Cozy to which I was asked to contribute and was glad to participate, and more recently I have hooked up with the guitar player from the days I spent in COZY POWELL'S HAMMER, namely Mario Parga, on a song that is far removed from the rock scene. Actually, Mario is an accomplished Spanish speaker and Spanish-style flamenco player and we've put a track together that should be released soon. It's been fantastic hooking up with Mario again and we may well do more stuff. I'll not say more at this point but I'm looking forward to the posibilities."
Martin's latest solo album, "Scream", was released in November 2005 via MTM Music. The CD features legendary drummer Cozy Powell (BLACK SABBATH, RAINBOW, WHITESNAKE) on "Raising Hell" as well as songwriting contributions by another SABBATH member, Geoff Nicholls.
Sabbat Guitarist Video Interview Posted Online
René Ackermann of Contraband Candy went to Backstage Studios to speak to the legendary guitarist and famed metal producer Andy Sneap. Andy speaks about SABBAT, how he was once inspired by "Inspector Gadget" and he shows René how to shoot a shotgun!
Watch the 10-minute chat below.
SABBAT recently parted ways with bassist Fraser Craske and replaced him with Gizz Butt (PRODIGY, ENGLISH DOGS, MORE I SEE).
Sanctuary Records earlier in the year reissued two classic SABBAT albums: "History of a Time to Come" (1988) and "Dreamweaver" (1989). The remastered CDs contain audio recordings from the band's 1990 concert in East Berlin, which was previously released as the official "The End of the Beginning" video. More...
Vainglory Part Ways With Guitarist
American power metal band VAINGLORY, fronted by vocalist Kate French (CHASTAIN) and featuring lead guitar virtuoso Corbin King, has parted ways with guitarist John Michael Youngblood. An as-yet-undisclosed replacement has already been found.
VAINGLORY has commenced the songwriting process for its sophomore album, due sometime in 2008. "All I can say is [the new material] will knock you out!" King previously saud. "It's way beyond heavy and has riffs that will kill you!"
VAINGLORY's self-titled debut album was released in Europe in April via MTM Music.
According to a press release, VAINGLORY "has all the ingredients in place to be a major force on the metal market for years to come. Kate's ability to mix power, conviction, emotion, and true heavy metal singing is very uncommon in today's 'metal' vocalists. Kate is a veteran to heavy metal and has not only pushed beyond the normal bounds of female vocalists, but has delivered her best recorded performance to date on this CD."
Quiet Riot Guitarist Talks About Late Singer
QUIET RIOT guitarist Alex Grossi has released the following statement regarding the passing of the group's lead singer, Kevin DuBrow:
"I really don't know where to start.
"Kevin was a beautiful soul and I feel more than fortunate to have known, worked and learned from him. Kevin was always a positive influence in what sometimes can be a very negative business. I am proud to have called him my friend, and always will be.
"Kevin DuBrow was a true lover of music and was EXTREMELY dedicated to his craft.
"I am honored to have been part of a band that changed the face of hard rock forever and to have been given the opportunity to play, write, and most importantly be part of his life. He will be forever missed.
"Rest in peace, my friend."
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.
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".
Headline News
Former Sacrifice Manager Passes Away
Toronto metal icon Ray "Black Metal" Wallace has passed away after being in a coma following a brain aneurysm he suffered on November 15.
Ray managed SACRIFICE in the '80s/'90s and had close ties to Canadian metal legends ANVIL and RAZOR. He was also a local promoter, most recently organizing the original Rock 'N' Roll Heaven reunion party, and was working with Toronto's all-girl powerhouse SCARLET SINS.
Toronto music publicist Paula Danylevich, who had been a friend of Ray's for many years, has issued the following statement:
"It is with an extremely heavy heart and tears in my eyes that I deliver to all of Ray's friends the news we had all hoped we would never hear.
"At midnight tonight, Ray's mother, aunt and cousin, joined by nine of his friends including myself and the chaplin from Toronto Western Hospital held hands around Ray's bedside and prayed one last time for our friend and then said our final goodbyes. We popped the cork on a bottle of champagne and raised a glass to Ray in the waiting room as they prepared him for his journey.
"At 12:15am today Ray was taken to the operating room so that he could give the gift of life to MANY people. His organs will save many lives, something we know Ray would have wanted. He was the most selfless, giving person I have ever met.
"Arrangements for Ray's funeral will be announced shortly. Anyone wishing to donate to Ray's family in their time of need can find information on the 'Donations' thread on the 'ALL RIGHT THERE BLACK METAL' Facebook page or by emailing me directly at gr8pr@aol.com.
"For those of you who were unaware, Ray was the only person supporting his family and had recently moved home to take care of his mother and brother. His father, who suffered a stroke some time ago, has been in a nursing home since last year, and Ray was covering the expenses for this as well. Any donation amount will be so gladly appreciated by the Wallace family.
"I would like to extend my personal thanks to the 80+ friends who visited Ray over the past few days to support his family and to say their goodbyes. Ray's mother was comforted by the fact he had so many good friends.
"I would also like to personally thank the hospital staff in the ICU at Toronto Western Hospital, who were so supportive and flexible with the needs of his family and friends. The nursing staff were also amazed by the number of friends who supported his family. When his attending nurse asked me yesterday if Ray was a rock star, I just looked at him and smiled.
"God bless Raymond 'Black Metal' Wallace. He was one of a kind. He'll no doubt be running Heaven in no time! My heart is with all of you at this sad time."
Lauren Harris To Support Iron Maiden In L.A.
According to Live Nation, Lauren Harris — daughter of IRON MAIDEN bassist Steve Harris — will support MAIDEN at the Forum in Los Angeles, California on February 19, 2008.
Upcoming Lauren Harris dates:
Supporting THUNDER:
Nov. 27 - Wolverhampton Civic Hall - Wolverhampton, UK
Nov. 28 - Bristol Academy - Bristol, UK
Dec. 01 - Manchester Academy - Manchester, UK
Dec. 02 - The Astoria - London, UK
Dec. 03 - Sheffield City Hall - Sheffield, UK
Supporting IRON MAIDEN:
Feb. 19 - Forum - Los Angeles, CA
Extreme Guitarist Denies Nostalgia Claims
Michael Marotta of BostonHerald.com reports that on Saturday, December 1, original EXTREME members Nuno Bettencourt, Gary Cherone, Pat Badger and new sticksman Kevin Figueiredo will take the stage at the Orpheum in Boston to blow the roof off the Boston Music Awards — the first step to a 2008 world reunion tour and new album.
"We weren't gonna do it until we had a record out," Bettencourt told BostonHerald.com. "But (AEROSMITH drummer and the BMAs honorary chairman) Joey Kramer reached out to us. He wanted to make the BMAs special like they used to be, so we figured why not?"
The as-yet-untitled studio album with all-new material — the band's fifth — will drop sometime in spring 2008. A massive tour will follow, said Nuno.
Bettencourt described the new album as a "straight-up rock record" that expands on EXTREME's funk-metal sound.
The new album was the key to getting back together as a full-time band, he said. EXTREME did a handful of gigs this summer, including a gig at the Bank of America Pavilion in July, but Bettencourt wasn't interested in becoming a permanent part of a nostalgia act.
"Even though we wanted to do something for years, we had to have something new to offer," he said. "In the last six months we started writing some great songs. If they weren't, we wouldn't be doing this."
Original EXTREME drummer Paul Geary, who manages GODSMACK out in L.A., decided to opt out of the reunion, but there are no hard feelings.
"Paul's a manager now, he doesn't play much," Bettencourt said. "He knew straightaway he wasn't able to do it, (but) the blessing is definitely there."
Dark Funeral DVD Enters Swedish Charts
Swedish black metallers DARK FUNERAL have entered the music DVD chart in their home country at position No. 5 with their first-ever DVD set, "Attera Orbis Terrarum - Part 1". Available on Regain Records, the two-disc set consists of three complete, professionally-filmed live shows and rare bonus footage. The first show was filmed with seven cameras on March 12, 2005 in Katowice, Poland. The second was filmed the following March in Tilburg, The Netherlands with four cameras. The second disc starts off with a camera-shot show from March 2006 in Paris, followed by the video clip for "Atrum Regina" and previously unreleased amateur footage that chronicles the Swedish black metal band's entire career, including the very first, and now legendary, show in Oslo, Norway on May 4, 1994. The total combined running time for the two discs is nearly four hours.
"Besides the three professionally filmed shows, we wanted this first DVD to also serve as a historical, live documentation of our career with rare and previously unreleased footage," said band leader Lord Ahriman. "This is the first DVD in a series of two that we will be releasing from touring for 'Attera Totus Sanctus'. This first DVD focus on European shows, while the second DVD will focus on South America."
These shows capture DARK FUNERAL, a band known for being one of the most intense live acts, in their natural element — on stage slaying fans with their relentless brand of extreme metal.
"Attera Orbis Terrarum - Part 1" DVD Trailer: More...
Quiet Riot Bassist Speaks On Late Singer
QUIET RIOT bassist Chuck Wright has issued the following statement regarding the death of vocalist Kevin DuBrow via Saviours Of Rock:
"I'm completely shocked and devastated. I’ve truly lost a brother and it’s a very sad loss for the world of rock n' roll. I'm so very fortunate to have been a part of his life these past 26 years. I have so many fond memories and it's a blessing that these recent few years have been so great with the band. There is no reason to say 'I wish we could have...' We did! I still can't believe I won't be sharing the stage with his larger than life presence ever again. The man left a mark wherever he went and I’m heartbroken that he is no longer with us."
Sadly,
Chuck Wright
Paul Stanley Discusses Artwork
Liza Grant Smith of Palm Beach Illustrated recently caught up with KISS frontman Paul Stanley. The following is an excerpt from the interview:
For the better part of three decades, the canvas Paul Stanley was best known for painting was his own face. As a front man for the legendary rock band KISS, Paul has been electrifying audiences in his signature spandex and platform boots since the band's debut in the mid-1970s. These days, however, he has discovered another artistic passion, one that requires much more personal insight and much less personal makeup. His growing collection of original paintings, which began as a cathartic journey, has ended up resonating with art lovers, collectors and critics alike and earned him a whole new audience of devoted fans.
PBI: What led you down this latest road of artistic expression?
Stanley: "Divorce will jolt you in ways you may not expect. My best friend told me that I needed to paint. He seemed to feel I needed a release-and he was right. I went out and bought canvases and brushes and basically started on an emotional journey, a way to discover in myself things that were going on and put them on canvas. Kind of like stream-of-consciousness, but instead of words, using color and texture."
PBI: How would you describe your art?
Stanley: "It's about delving into myself. When I start a painting it's like a trip in which I don't know where I'm going, but I know when I've gotten there. It's really about finding an emotional connection and once I feel that's complete, I tend to believe that it will connect and resonate with someone else. So far I'm pretty right."
PBI: What's the difference between creating music and creating works of art?
Stanley: "Music has many more boundaries and frameworks that you have to work within. You have the structure of the music, the melody on top of that, and then the lyrics have to rhyme. Everything has to fit within parameters. Whereas with art, there are no rules. You don’t have the same limitations because if it can be done with color and texture, the possibilities are endless.
Body Of Scars Seek Manager And Booking Agent
BODY OF SCARS - the new Phoenix, Arizona-based band featuring JAG PANZER drummer Rikard Stjernquist and former 40 GRIT vocalist/guitarist James Santiago - are seeking a professional manager and booking agent. The band has no time to do these jobs as they are finishing the final touches for the 2nd CD and start recording again, but would like to play as many shows as possible before march of 2008
Please email the band at: bodyofscars@hotmail.com
As previously reported, Body Of Scars have put up their self-titled debut CD for free download on the their MySpace page. The band's self-titled debut album was released on October 2.
Formed in August 2006, Body Of Scars' current lineup is completed by lead guitarist Randy Davis (MOTIVE) and Brian Shoemake bass guitar.
Read the full article at this location.
Kataklysm And Behemoth To Tour Europe
KATAKLYSM have announced European and UK tour dates with BEHEMOTH, set for February. Vocalist Maurizio Iacono has issued the following statement via the band's official website:
"We were planning on coming back to the UK in 2008 since the dates went so well there and the crowds were so killer. Then we found out our friends in Behemoth were gonna be there at the same time as well, so we decided to join forces. The last run was intense as fuck, both bands feeding of each other's energy live every night. This time it won't be any different. I salute Nergal and Co. and wait for another killer run to arrive."
Confirmed dates are as follows:
February
1 - Hannover, Germany - Musikzentrum *
2 - Rotterdam, Holland - Baroeg
3 - Birmingham, UK - Barfly
4 - Glasgow, Scotland - Barfly
5 - Sheffield, UK - Corporation
6 - Portsmouth, UK - Wedgewood Rooms
7 - London, UK - Ulu
8 - Nantes, France - Olympic
9 - Irun, Spain - Tunk
10 - Vigo, Spain - A!
11 - Lisbon, Portugal - Cine Teatro de Corroios
12 - Faro, Portugal - Ass. Musicos de Faro
13 - Granada, Spain - Industrial Copera
14 - Madrid, Spain - Ritmo & Compas
15 - Barcelona, Spain - Apolo 2
16 - Limoges, France - CC John Lennon
17 - Paris, France - La Locomotive
18 - Frankfurt, Germany - Batschkapp *
19 - Jena, Germany - F-Haus *
* Kataklysm headline shows
H.I.M. Debut 'Bleed Well' Video For Fan Club
Finnish "love metallers" HIM are debuting the video for their new single, "Bleed Well", for the HIM fan club on Heartagram.com today. Imeem will feature the official "world premiere" of the video on Tuesday, November 27.
The band filmed the live footage for the new clip at their Los Angeles shows on November 14 and November 15 at the Orpheum Theatre. The footage from the shows will also be used for HIM's upcoming live DVD, to be released in 2008.
HIM frontman Ville Valo recently spoke to Straight.com about his songwriting process. "It's very hard to sing about sunshine and ice cream and birds in fast cars . . . I'm a miserable bastard when it comes to writing music," he said. "I love melancholy music, and I love the darker aspects when it comes to, like, popular music. I've always been a big fan of [BLACK] SABBATH and all that, so obviously they've been a big influence on me, and I wanted to write music that would have a similar kind of gloomy atmosphere to it."
In 2003, HIM released an album called "Love Metal", which featured a gold "heartagram" — a cross between a heart and a pentagram — on the cover. The group has trademarked that yin-yang symbol, which Valo created the day after his 20th birthday, and has taken the "love metal" concept to heart.
"When we started out, a lot of people had a hard time deciding which category we belonged to, because we had the sort of SABBATH-y thing, but at the end of the day we're singing love songs," Ville said. "It wasn't goth and it wasn't rock and it wasn't metal–it was something in between. One of the first songs we ever played was 'Wicked Game' by CHRIS ISAAK, where we put all the really fuzzy, heavy guitars on it, so I guess love metal just sounded good. And you actually have to be a proper man to be able to say that you like love metal."
HIM's new album, "Venus Doom", has sold 77,000 copies in the United States since its September release, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
HIM still has few dates left on their North American tour before they hit the European soil with the following dates:
28.11.2007 / House of Blues, North Myrtle Bch, SC USA
29.11.2007 / Norva, Norfolk, VA USA
30.11.2007 / Electric Factory, Philadelphia, PA USA
01.12.2007 / Nokia Theatre, New York, NY USA
02.12.2007 / Nokia Theatre, New York, NY USA
07.12.2007 / Guildhall, PORTSMOUTH ENGLAND
08.12.2007 / Civic Hall, WOLVERHAMPTON ENGLAND
09.12.2007 / Apollo, MANCHESTER ENGLAND
10.12.2007 / Barrowlands, Glasgow SCOTLAND
12.12.2007 / Astoria, London ENGLAND
13.12.2007 / Astoria, London ENGLAND
14.12.2007 / Nalen, Stockholm SWEDEN
31.12.2007 / Tavastia Helldone Festival, Helsinki FINLAND
17.02.2008 / Mozartsaal, Mannheim GERMANY
18.02.2008 / Elserhalle, Munich GERMANY
20.02.2008 / Haus Auensee, Leipzig GERMANY
23.02.2008 / Westfalenhalle, Dortmund GERMANY
24.02.2008 / Palladium, Cologne GERMANY
26.02.2008 / Docks, Hamburg GERMANY
28.02.2008 / Paradiso, Amsterdam NETHERLANDS
06.03.2008 / Alcatraz, Milan ITALY
07.03.2008 / Saschall, Florence ITALY
08.03.2008 / Vox Discoteca, Nonantola, MO ITALY
10.03.2008 / X-Tra, Zurich SWITZERLAND
Sonata Arctica Add More South American Tour Dates
Some more tourdates for the Sonata Arctica South American tour in February/March 2008 have been confirmed, The confirmed gigs are the following:
22.02.08 Santiago - Caupolican (Chile)
23.02.08 Valparaiso - El Huevo (Chile)
26.02.08 São Paulo - Citibank Hall (Brazil)
28.02.08 Curitiba - Hellooch (Brazil)
01.03.08 Buenos Aires - Obras (Argentina)
03.03.08 Lima - Stadium Club Lawn Tennis (Peru)
SONATA ARCTICA is roaming around with the following schedule:
26.12.2007 / Aspen Urheiluhalli, Haparanda SWEDEN
27.12.2007 / Teatria, Oulu FINLAND
29.12.2007 / Kaapelitehdas, Helsinki FINLAND
30.12.2007 / MetroAuto Areena, Tampere FINLAND
31.12.2007 / Jäähalli, Mikkeli FINLAND
01.02.2008 / Webster Theater, Hartford USA
02.02.2008 / Mark´s Place, Bedford USA
03.02.2008 / Starland Ballroom, Sayreville USA
05.02.2008 / Impérial de Québec, Quebec City CANADA
06.02.2008 / Embassy, London CANADA
08.02.2008 / West End, Winnipeg CANADA
09.02.2008 / The Exchange, Regina CANADA
10.02.2008 / Starlite Room, Edmonton CANADA
11.02.2008 / The Warehouse, Calgary CANADA
13.02.2008 / Plaza Club, Vancouver CANADA
14.02.2008 / El Corazón, Seattle USA
15.02.2008 / The Hawthorne Theater, Portland USA
16.02.2008 / The Boardwalk, Orangevale USA
18.02.2008 / Slim´s, San Fransisco USA
19.02.2008 / House of Blues, San Diego USA
22.02.2008 / Caupolican, Santiago CHILE
23.02.2008 / El Huevo, Valparaiso CHILE
26.02.2008 / São Paulo - Citibank Hall BRAZIL
28.02.2008 / Curitiba - Hellooch BRAZIL
01.03.2008 / Buenos Aires - Obras ARGENTINA
03.03.2008 / Lima - Stadium Club Lawn Tennis PERU
02.08.2008 / Wacken Open Air, Wacken GERMANY
Virus Post New Song Demo
Norway’s VIRUS, masterminded by Czral (a.k.a. Carl-Michael Eide, VED BUENS ENDE, DØDHEIMSGARD), have posted a rough-cut of a new song on their MySpace page. Czral talks about the track:
“We’ve just posted a new song. It’s a rough-mix WITHOUT BASS. Just like ‘Lost Peacocks‘, we’ve chosen to post it without bass. The reason for this, is that the bass is such a big element in VIRUS, and we want all of you to still hear something new when the album finally is out.
“‘Stalkers of the Drift‘, is the name of this baby. Not as massive as ‘Lost Peacocks‘. A different structure altogether. Slow and sad in the beginning, and building up towards a nice climax in the end. Lyrics are written together with Amniotic Sac, a lost girl from the dead city of Bolton, England. We’ve posted the lyrics as a bulletin to all our friends.
“Well, we’re still in the studio. Recording vocals. The bass is being done, as we speak, at Plenum’s place. All by himself. Then, of course, we’ll have the mixing, the details, some guitars, and baking. Lots of baking. In spite of all this, we still hope The Black Flux is gonna be out spring-time, even though the time-noose is tightening quite a bit.
“PS: listening to this song more than twice might cause eczema.”
Mutiny Announce Vocalist And Post Three New Songs
The search for a vocalist has finally come to an end for Mutiny. They announced today, via their myspace blog, that Wales native Chris Clancy will be the new frontman.
Three new songs (Losing Sight, So Real, and Burning Inside) featuring Chris have been posted on Mutiny's myspace in addition to the first song, Overburdened. Live photos from the band's November 19th show in New York City have also been posted on their myspace.
Mutiny has two upcoming live dates:
December 2nd - Headlining show, The Stone Pony (early 2PM start), Asbury Park, NJ
February 3rd - Supporting Sonata Arctica, The Starland Ballroom, Sayreville, NJ
Led Zeppelin Frontman To Tour 2008 Without Band
Led Zeppelin front-man Robert Plant has told Rolling Stone Magazine that he plans to hit the road with Alison Krauss in early 2008 to promote the pair's collaborative album, "Raising Sand."
In other Zeppelin news, the band is reportedly rearranging their songs for the big reunion show. Aging front-man Robert Plan has found he can no longer hit his classic high notes. They've been rehearsing in a lower key because his voice is deeper.
According to UK's The Sun, "He and guitarist Jimmy Page have had a few heated discussions about the upcoming gig."
"Jimmy is a bit rusty and Robert has been struggling with the high notes. To avoid any embarrassing vocal wobbles with the world watching, they decided it would be best to transpose the songs in a lower key."
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