ATTACKER have announced the addition of Walter Figueroa to the group's ranks. Figueroa is the former lead singer of SEVERED HAND (a band that features Sebastian Bach's son on drums) and he recently did a stint as vocalist for 1980s metal cover band SMELL THE GLOVE (which features SEVEN WITCHES and current JOEY BELLADONNA guitarist Jack Frost). Walter Figueroa has also been involved with hard rock band IMPRECARI and progressive rock/metal band PARADOX (New Jersey).
15 May 2008
Dan Beehler (ex-EXCITER) has issued another update regarding the activities in his camp as the BEEHLER project - the band also featuring former Exciter bassist Allan Johnson along with guitarists Sean Brophy and Scott Walsh - readies new material and gears up for a rare live appearance at Germany's Headbangers Open Air Festival, which is scheduled to take place July 24th - 26th, 2008 in Brande-Hornerkirchen, Germany. "How can I forget how cool it is to be playing with my brother in metal, Allan Johnson, were headed back to Germany for the first time since the eighties," Beehler says with excitement. "Also as you know, my brother Richard was the fourth silent member of Exciter and wrote a lot of lyrics back then like 'Under Attack' etc. When he past away in 1999, Walsh and I started Beehler in his memory and at Headbangers Open Air, get this, July 26th the day we hit the stage is the anniversary of his death. So it's extra special. I believe he's still somehow that silent member still helping us out! This is big for my family and Al. Also Brophy and Walsh have family ties to Exciter, we grew up together and they understand how important this is. We didn't just pick these guys up off the street. Not to mention, Johnson and I can't think of a better place to launch the Beehler thing. Germany was there in the beginning, stuck through the hard years and they're here for us now. It's almost like a homecoming for Al and I. I get chills when I think about it. We all are from the Joey DeMaio (MANOWAR) old school, we just want to blow peoples heads off with some classic '80's metal. The true fans deserve it!"
15 May 2008
PILEDRIVER have inked a deal with Northern Storm Records. The group is currently working on its long-awaited new album, "Metal Manifesto", which will be mixed by Neil Kernon (QUEENSRźCHE, NEVERMORE, CANNIBAL CORPSE, DEICIDE).
15 May 2008
US thrash masters FORBIDDEN have announced a string of live dates throughout Europe during June and July. Dates are as follows:
June
20 - The Rock - Copenhagen, Denmark
21 - Turock - Essen, Germany
22 - Hellfest - Clisson, France
23 - Radar - Torino, Italy
24 - Stuk - Maribor, Slovakia
25 - Sotto Tetto - Bologna, Italy
26 - Bang Your Head - Hechingen, Germany
27 - Bang Your Head - Balingen, Germany
28 - Graspop Metal Meeting - Dessel, Belgium
July
3 - Markthalle - Hamburg, Germany
4 - Dynamo Club - Eindhoven, Netherlands
5 - Waldrock Festival – Burgum, Netherlands
15 May 2008
German progressive metallers SIEGES EVEN will release the first live album in their career. The CD will be entitled Playgrounds, containing ten songs from the albums A Sense Of Change, The Art Of Navigating By The Stars and Paramount. Recorded during Part I of the Paramount tour 2007/08, Playgrounds will hit the stores by the end of July via Inside Out Music.
15 May 2008
Reunited California-based metallers DÉTENTE (featuring HELLION's Ann Boleyn on vocals) have confirmed a new live date in Oberhausen, Germany on July 26th at Helvete Club. Upcoming Détente live dates now include:
July
5 - Tidalwave Metal Fest 2008 - San Francisco, California
19 - The Black Castle - Los Angeles, California
25 - Headbanger's Open Air - Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
26 - Helvete Club - Oberhausen, Germany
27 - Ballroom Hamburg - Hamburg, Germany
October
4 - MartoHell Metal Festival - Barcelona, Spain
15 May 2008
CANDLEMASS are currently recording a new EP, "Lucfer Rising", for a tentative Septeber release via Nuclear Blast Records. It will include two brand new tracks — "Lucifer Rising" and "The White God" — plus a whole bunch of live tracks from the previous tour. A new album will be recorded in the fall for a spring 2009 release.
15 May 2008
RIOT mainman/guitarist Mark Reale has issued the following update:
"I'm in the process of working with all the members from the original 1988 lineup (Reale, singer Tony Moore, bassist Don Van Staven and drummer Bobby Jarzombek) and have begun writing material for a new record with them. Although some members do have prior commitments, hopefully the new record will be released in the late fall of 2008."
15 May 2008
IMPELLITTERI mainman/guitarist Chris Impellitteri has issued the following update:
"First, I want to thank Guitar World magazine for including IMPELLITTERI in their 50 'Fastest Guitarist of All Time' article. That was really nice of them to include me. I am definitely guilty of playing hyper-speed all too often. However, many people tell me I am the guitarist who probably started the craze of hyper-speed shred with the IMPELLITTERI 'Black' EP. (oops — HA!) SHRED ON!!
"Now on to [IMPELLITTERI's] new record titled 'Good and Evil'. The new music is being mixed in Vancouver with Greg Reely (DEVILDRIVER, FEAR FACTORY, etc.). I can say that this is by far the most amazing recording I have been involved with. It is filled with amazing riffs, fast shredding solos, screaming vocals, and of course a brutal rhythm section. "The goal of this record was to make a historic album that will rival 'Van Halen 1', OZZY's 'Blizzard of Oz', PANTERA's 'Cowboys from Hell', YNGWIE's 'Rising Force', METALLICA's 'Master of Puppets', and even new artists like CHILDREN OF BODOM and AVENGED SEVENFOLD. "And so, IMPELLITTERI 'Good and Evil' is my attempt to rival the best. Hopefully, we have done our job well!! It was not easy.
"And now for all of the patient fans — Rob Rock [vocals] is officially back in the band."
ROB ROCK has also recently announced his involvement with Lou St. Paul (WINTERSBANE) in FIRES OF BABYLON. The multi-talented vocalist said, "Yea, it's feast or famine for me. (laughs) 'The Year Of The Rock' I guess! I'm also working on a new DRIVER album with Roy Z (HALFORD, BRUCE DICKINSON). I plan to get all the recordings done by this summer so I can concentrate on my Live DVD/CD for the Rob Rock band in September at ProgPower USA. Maybe I'll get a break in 2009." Rock claims the Gardens Of Chaos line-up, completely comprised of Swedish musicians, will be rehearsing (maybe a surprise gig?) in Florida prior to the PPUSA appearance. More info if/when it becomes available.
27 April 2008
Angelo Espino, whose work in Thrash Metal includes Hirax, Reverend (w/ David Wayne), Dissinter, Uncle Slam, Once Dead, Vermin, LSN, and many others has officially joined the ranks of OSM Records artist ANGER AS ART (led by ex-Abattoir singer Steve Gaines).
The band released the following statement:
''This was a coup for us to get someone of his caliber. We knew that a change was going to happen with Javier. However the timetable was moved up very rapidly in March. It came to our attention that Angelo was available and interested, so we made him an offer. Angelo and Dave played together in what we thought was Hirax's best lineup so they have that rhythm section vibe already in place, and it really shows when we play live. We wish Javier the best, and we part as friends and family.''
Espino's first shows with Anger As Art were at Seattle Metal Fest on April 5, and also in support of Testament, and OSM label mates Laaz Rockit in Southern California. For the So Cal dates, AAA contracted Medal Media Productions to shoot a concert video which should see an early summer release. More information forthcoming.
Anger As Art plan to enter the studio to begin work on album #3 (as of yet untitled) in September or October after additional appearances in the USA and Europe this summer.
27 April 2008
FORBIDDEN have tapped former MACHINE HEAD/TESTAMENT drummer Chris Kontos for their upcoming European tour. The band are rumored to be in talks with Nuclear Blast Records about recording a new studio album for the label. The proposed deal would also include the release of a new full-length live album, to be recorded on the band's upcoming European tour.
27 April 2008
RIDE THE SKY, the new band featuring ex-HELLOWEEN drummer and MASTERPLAN founder Uli Kusch alongside ex-TEARS OF ANGER/BEYOND TWILIGHT singer Bjřrn Jansson, guitarist Benny Jansson, and bassist Mathias Granĺs (XSAVIOR), has split up. According to the group, "Neither the bandmembers nor record company seem to have the urge to make a second album. There was not much media focus and together with a minor support from the record company, we came to the point where it was just not worth the work to even try to complete a second album."
27 April 2008
DESTRUCTION are scheduled to enter Hansen Studios in Ribe, Denmark today (April 21) with producer Jacob Hansen to begin recording their new album, entitled "D.E.V.O.L.U.T.I.O.N." An August 29 European release is expected. There are also plans for a full DESTRUCTION DVD release later this year.
27 April 2008
METAL CHURCH have issued the following update: "After much consideration and many qualified applicants we have come to a decision on a new guitar player. We have chosen Rick Van Zandt. Rick is a very gifted player who spent many years in the Seattle metal scene in bands like THE END, ROTTWEILLER and THE RONNY MUNROE BAND. Some of Rick's influences are Steve Vai, Richie Blackmore and Eddie Van Halen." Metal Church are putting the finishing touches to their new album, This Present Wasteland, due out this fall via SPV.
27 April 2008
UK bassist Adrian Lambert (BIOMECHANICAL, SON OF SCIENCE, ex-DRAGONFORCE) has joined new U.S.-based melodic speed metal band COLDERA.
http://www.myspace.com/officialcoldera
27 April 2008
CRADLE OF FILTH are currently in the studio recording the follow-up to 2006's "Thornography", tentatively due later in the year via Roadrunner Records. Commented guitarist Paul Allender: "I've almost finished the guitars on the new album, the new material is totally intense, it truly is some of the fastest stuff we have ever done and its fully loaded with orchestration. I can't wait for everyone to hear it."
27 April 2008
Following last year's release of HIRAX's EP "Assassins Of War", the Long Beach thrashers have recorded six new songs with producer John Haddad for their upcoming album, "El Rostro de la Muerte". This will be the band's first full-length since the 2004 release "The New Age Of Terror". The album will also include re-recordings of classic HIRAX tracks "Broken Neck" and "Blind Faith" as well as the bonus track "Chaos And Brutality" from the European EP released last year.
16 April 2008
X-WORLD 5 - the new band based around former HAMMERFALL bass player Magnus Rosen, PAGAN'S MIND vocalist Nils K Rue, guitar players Andy La Roque (KING DIAMOND) and Reeves Gabrels (DAVID BOWIE), as well as drummer Big Swede - will release of their debut album, New Universal Order, via AFM Records on May 16th. The Tracklist of New Universal Order is as follows: 'CyberChrist', 'Man Machine', 'Charge To War', 'Stand Up', 'A Cryptic Message', 'Crooked Cross', 'Lunar Voyage', 'Argonaut' and 'New Eden'.
16 April 2008
FIRES OF BABYLON, the new band cranking out classic 1980's-style shredding US heavy metal, featuring guitarist Lou St. Paul (WINTERS BANE), vocalist Rob Rock (ROB ROCK band; ex-IMPELITTERRI), bassist Kelly Conlon (ex-DEATH, MONSTROSITY), and drummer Robert Falzano (SHATTER MESSIAH; ex-ANNIHILATOR), will see their debut full length released through Metal Heaven Records on April 25th. The tracklist for the debut is as follows: 'Falling To Pieces', 'Devilution', 'When The Kingdom Comes', 'Lake Of Fire', 'Holy Resurrection', 'Going Through Changes', 'Lazarus Rising', 'Revolution Coming', 'Generation Of Destruction', 'Castles Are Burning'.
16 April 2008
TESTAMENT's ninth studio album is slated for release on April 29th via Nuclear Blast. The follow-up to 1999's The Gathering, Damnation features the original Testament line-up of vocalist Chuck Billy, guitarists Eric Peterson and Alex Skolnick, and bassist Greg Christian, with the addition of friend and former member, Paul Bostaph.
16 April 2008
RAM, the traditional Gothenburg, Sweden-based heavy metal band featuring Leif Larsson (ex-FROZEN EYES, NME WITHIN) and Morgan Pettersson (ex-B-THONG), has entered Studio Bongo in the group's hometown to begin recording the new RAM album, due before the end of the year.
16 April 2008
HOLY MOSES has set "Bloodbound" as the title of its new album, tentatively due this summer.
16 April 2008
TIMO TOLKKI has decided to end STRATOVARIUS and has formed a new band called REVOLUTION RENAISSANCE. The debut album is entitled "New Era" and will be released on June 6th 2008 on Frontiers Records. New Era is the album that was meant to be the next Stratovarius album. Instead, Timo called a few friends for the recording sessions and the album features all the lead vocals from Michael Kiske (ex-HELLOWEEN) and Tobias Sammet (EDGUY, AVANTASIA, along with Timo's lead guitar lines and melodic Power Metal anthems that made him one of the pioneers and trademark performers of the style. Tolkki is looking for a permanent line-up for the band, so if you are interested, check out the details at www.timotolkki.com.
16 April 2008
BENEDICTION have commenced the recording sessions for their new album, entitled "Killing Music". The band has launched a studio diary. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Killing Music", "Dripping With Disgust", "Rats In The Mask (Controlopolis)", "They Bleed", "I Am The Betrayer" and "Dissembler". A late 2008 release via Nuclear Blast Records is expected.
16 April 2008
METAL CHURCH have issued the following update:
"Ronny Munroe (vocals] just flew into Seattle to finish the final vocal tracks for the new release. We are very pleased with the way it is turning out. Look forward to more updates along with some studio photos." METAL CHURCH's new album, tentatively titled "This Present Wasteland", is scheduled for release later in the year. The band recently parted ways with guitarist Jay Reynolds (also of MALICE) for "personal reasons." A replacement guitarist has not yet been announced.
16 April 2008
HALLOWS EVE are putting the finishing touches on a new studio album, tentatively due later in the year. The CD, which features original lead vocalist Stacy Andersen, was produced by Doyle Bright of RIGOR MORTIS and is said to be "a conscious effort to achieve the feel and sound of 'Tales of Terror' (1985) and 'Death and Insanity' (1986)," according to bassist Tommy Stewart.
Lets just wait and see (hear)........
16 April 2008
New Jersey metallers ATTACKER have parted ways with vocalist Bob Mitchell "due to ongoing personal and financial circumstances that unfortunately prevent any further cooperation between the parties," according to a press release. "The band wishes Bob the best of luck in his future endeavors and thanks him for the great run they had together."
ATTACKER is currently seeking a replacement lead vocalist. All interested parties can submit demo material at mike@attacker.tv.
Former ATTACKER vocalist Bob Mitchell has released the following statement regarding his departure from the group:
"Just wanted to express that I had the greatest time at the Keep It True festival over the past weekend. ATTACKER rocked Germany once again and everyone was, as usual, gracious and enthusiastic about what we have accomplished. "With that said, it is with heavy heart that I announce my departure from ATTACKER. Outside of the band, I have commitments to college as I am currently earning my Associate's Degree and will soon be entering the nursing program, my work at the hospital, which is my greatest passion and my family. In truth, I just could not commit myself at a 100% level and with each passing day it became more difficult. It just isn't fair for me, nor is it fair for the band, and so I chose to make this decision. Also, on a light note, I wish to announce that I will be a first-time father and I will be married as of this July. "I must make it clear that I love ATTACKER. I am the man I am today because of this great band. I have been blessed for having the opportunity of fronting such an amazing group of the talented musicians and friends. "I walk away without regrets and with a sense of pride and accomplishment.
I thank all of you for the great times and wonderful memories. I love ATTACKER, I love our fans for now and always." ATTACKER performed a special "Battle At Helm's Deep" show at the Keep It True X festival on April 4, 2008 at the Tauberfrankenhalle in Lauda-Königshofen, Germany.
16 April 2008
CELTIC FROST have released the following statement via their official web site:
"CELTIC FROST singer and guitarist Tom Gabriel Fischer has left CELTIC FROST due to the irresolvable, severe erosion of the personal basis so urgently required to collaborate within a band so unique, volatile, and ambitious."
It was reported earlier in the year that CELTIC FROST was putting together an album tentatively titled "Monotheist Companion" that will feature unreleased songs from 2006's "Monotheist" sessions and rearrangements of tracks from the album. The disc is tentatively due in the summer.
16 April 2008
British heavy metal legends SAXON have scheduled the following dates:
April 23 - London, England - Shepherds Bush Empire
April 30 - Tokyo, Japan - O East
May 01 - Nagoya, Japan - Club Quattro
May 02 - Osaka, Japan - Club Quattro
May 05 - Brisbane, Australia - The Arena
May 06 - Melbourne, Australia - Billboard
May 07 - Sydney, Australia - The Forum
June 06 - Sölvesborg, Sweden - Sweden Rock Festival
June 07 - Nürburgring, Germany - Rock Am Ring
June 08 - Nürnberg, Germany - Rock Im Park
June 21 - Basque, Spain - Kobetasonik Festival
June 27 - Dessel, Belgium - Graspop Metal Meeting
June 28 - Balingen, Germany - Bang Your Head Festival
July 05 - Wacken, Germany - Wacken Rock Seaside
July 12 - Barcelona, Spain - Barcelona Metal Open Air Festival
July 18 - Osterode, Germany - Rock Harz Open Air
July 26 - Lichtenvoorde, Holland - Zwarte Cross Festival
26 March 2008
Headbangers Open Air festival (24-26 July) update: EXODUS und 3 INCHES OF BLOOD make a stop during their festivaltour to sing us an extreme lullaby....
We`re extremely enthusiastic about the confirmation of BEEHLER (with original Exciter members Dan Beehler and Allan Johnson) , Beehler will mainly play songs of the first 3 Exciter Albums ( HM Maniacs....). Bill Peters (Auburn Records) and his DESTRUCTOR changed their travelplans to stop at HOA . The Gates of Slumber and Seasons of the Wolf delayed their tours and had to cancel .With US thrashers AT WAR our billing is almost complete .
Confirmed now : 3 Inches of Blood (Can), Abandonned (Ger), Amulance (USA), Ancestral (Ita), At War (USA), Axehammer (USA), Beehler (Can), Benedictum (USA), Black Hawk (Ger), Blaze Bayley (UK), Deadly Blessing (USA), Death SS (Ita), Destructor (USA), Detente (USA), Exodus (USA), Impaler (USA), Lethal (USA), Messenger (Ger), Mortal Sin (Australia), New Eden (USA), Paradox (Ger), Picture (NL), Praying Mantis (UK), Rebellion (Ger), Resistance (USA), Sodom (Ger), Sweet Savage (Ire), Wild Dogs (USA).
The Los Angeles, California-based '80s classic heavy metal band WARRIOR has announced its reunion with original vocalist Parramore McCarty and guitarist Joe Floyd. The complete 2008 reunion WARRIOR lineup is as follows: Parramore McCarty (Vocals), Joe Floyd (Guitars), AC Alexander (Guitars), Rob Farr (Bass), Dave DuCey (Drums).
WARRIOR is currently recording its fifth album at Silvercloud Studios with guitarist Joe Floyd behind the controls.
Commented McCarty: "I, for one, am very excited to have WARRIOR back in motion. It is great fun and challenging to be writing and recording with Joe and Dave again! At this point, we have a few rhythm tracks done and they are kicking my ass hard! I know in my heart there is a certain magic that shines through anytime Joe and I work together. So get ready all you metal freaks, because here we come!" Floyd added: "I'm stoked to be hitting the stage with Perry again and the band lineup is killer! The response from the fans has already been overwhelming. There is no stopping this train." Stated Alexander: "WARRIOR is an unmistakable sound and an undeniable band. Listen to the records...You can hear the magic unfold in the working / writing relationship between Joe and Parramore...To watch it unfold right before my eyes in the studio is incredible. I am privileged to be a part of this legendary force in rock." Farr commented: "The energy and vibe between the new lineup is strong. It's an honor to play bass in this legendary metal band. I can't wait to bring the songs of past, present, and future to the people. Get ready for the onslaught!"
Said Ducey: "I am so pleased to see this classic metal band back on track! Being a member of WARRIOR since 1995, and drumming on the last three releases, I can't wait for the band to unleash its new fury! The sleeping giant has awoken."
WARRIOR has released four CDs: "Fighting For The Earth" (1985); "Ancient Future" (1998); "The Code Of Life" (2001) and "The Wars Of Gods And Men" (2004). Germany's NL Distribution has just re-released the legendary WARRIOR debut CD, "Fighting For The Earth".
26 March 2008
STEEL PROPHET have finished all instrumental and vocal tracks for two new studio songs. The songs are tentatively titled 'Transformation Staircase' and 'Trickery of the Scourge'. Sessions took place at Horacio's (Colmenares/guitars) studio in La Puente and the band was very pleased with the results. Steel Prophet's line-up features original singer Rick Mythiasin.
26 March 2008
The Fields Of Rock Festival, scheduled to take place June this year in Biddinghuizen (The Netherlands) has been cancelled. Organizer Mojo pulled the plug due to poor ticket sales, which they blame on lacking real big headliners for this year's edition. More info can be found here: www.fieldsofrock.nl
26 March 2008
VAINGLORY, fronted by vocalist Kate French (CHASTAIN) and featuring lead guitar virtuoso Corbin King, has inked a deal with Locomotive Records. The group is hard at work recording the follow-up to 2007's self-titled "Vainglory" CD for a July 2008 release. The new album is tetatively titled "Manifesting Destiny" and will contain 11 "bone-crushing, devastatingly heavy tracks," according to a press release. "The sound of this CD will be a bit different than the previous in that the songs are heavier, tougher, the choruses bigger, and feature the best performances from all the bandmembers." Joining King and French in the band's current lineup are bassist Chris Banja and new drummer Mike Oliviero.
26 March 2008
WHITESNAKE's new album, Good To Be Bad, will be issued as a strictly limited double-vinyl release via SPV / Steamhammer in Europe on April 18th. The LP release coincides with Germany's CD release of the album. Other release dates include the rest of Europe on April 21st and North America on April 22nd. Good To Be Bad will be available as a regular jewel case version and a bonus CD version featuring an extra disc in a cardboard sleeve, poster, photocard and sticker.
26 March 2008
NEVERMORE have set "The Year Of The Voyager" as the title of their upcoming DVD, due this fall via Century Media Records. The disc will contain footage of the band's October 11, 2006 concert at the Zeche club in Bochum, Germany.
26 March 2008
Keyboardist Bobby Williamson of the Texas metal band OUTWORLD has issued the following update:
"Due to overwhelming and stressful tasks that I took on, rehearsal schedule problems, sleep deprivation and damage to my hearing (tinnitus), I have made the decision to leave OUTWORLD. This was a hard decision to make, but I feel it's best for me.
"Rusty Cooley [guitar] and I, the founding members of this band, began OUTWORLD years ago with the vision of putting together an amazing metal band that could measure up with the quality of bands like SYMPHONY X, DREAM THEATER, etc., and I think we conquered that vision to a degree. However, things have changed for me, it became not fun anymore and too hard to persevere with little positive return.
"But I'm not done with music! And I look forward to writing music of my own...not sure which direction I will take yet as far as a project or a band.
"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all of those devoted fans we have gathered over the years that truly believed in us. You helped us win the Famecast video competition, an amazing and gloriful accomplishment that each of us will never forget. Cheers to you! Hopefully OUTWORLD fans will continue to follow each member in OUTWORLD as we take on other endeavors. I feel OUTWORLD will go down as the best metal band that never reached its full potential in the music industry."
26 March 2008
Iron Kodex Records has announced the signing of Sweden's traditional metal hopefuls PORTRAIT. The band's self-titled debut album is scheduled for release on April 3.
According to a press release, "Portrait" will feature eight songs of highly energetic traditional metal in the vein of bands like SAVAGE, MERCYFUL FATE, early IRON MAIDEN and WITCHCROSS and come with an exclusive cover artwork by renowned Bulgarian artist Dimitar Nikolov.
Founding member Christian Lindell commented on the debut album: "If our previous stuff sounded more like Sledgehammer, you can compare our new album a lot more with IRON MAIDEN. As a whole the album is more worked-through. We paid more attention to the fine-tuning of the songs. Some of the tracks, [such as] 'Hell' and 'A Thousand Nightmares', are faster than our previous material. Both tracks remind more of BATHORY or MOTÖRHEAD than anything we did earlier... with a very Danish touch, though, in the vein of WITCHCROSS, EVIL, KIM SIXX... In some places we have acoustic guitars and one long, epic piece titled 'The Adversary'. You will definitely be able to recognize, that you're listening to PORTRAIT, but you will also find things, which differ from our earlier material."
16 March 2008
US prog-metallers ZERO HOUR are confirmed for ProgPower Europe 2008. The festival is celebrating their 10th anniversary and it will be a full three-day event with three bands on Friday, October 3rd and six on Saturday (4th) and Sunday (5th) at JC Sjiwa in Baarlo, The Netherlands.
THRESHOLD and PAGAN'S MIND will be two of the three headliners of ProgPower Europe 2008. Other bands on the bill now include GHOST BRIGADE, DIVISION BY ZERO, PATHOSRAY, SUSPYRE and ZERO HOUR.
16 March 2008
"Formed in January of 2008, PROPHESY hails from the United States and Germany. Featuring vocalist Brian O'Connor (ex-VICIOUS RUMORS) guitarist Fabian Schwarz (PARADOX, RUNAMOK, THE NEW BLACK) and guitarist Charly Steinhauer (Paradox). Uniting East with West, these well established professional musicians have banded together to create a international metal force. With countless records, tours, radio play, magazine write ups and festival performances to thousands of fans worldwide between them, Prophesy is ready to release their heavy assault of powerful aggressive melodic metal to the masses."
16 March 2008
Sean Reinert, drummer for reunited metallers CYNIC, has issued the following update:
"Many of you might be in the 'know' but for those of you who are unaware, Cynic has been booked for the Waken Festival in Germany this August. We will be filling in a few more dates around this for a small first run. We anticipate a full world tour to coincide with the release of the new CD this fall. Plans include Western Europe, US and South America. Hopefully we can also get to Japan!"
16 March 2008
ICED EARTH introduce new bassplayer:
"Freddie Vidales from San Antonio, Texas has been selected to pound the pavement (and a few eardrums) on the road with Iced Earth in 2008 as the band's new bass player. Prior to joining Iced Earth, Freddie was the bassist and frontman for 10 years in his own band called, INFUSION. Freddie has been influenced by bands such as IRON MAIDEN, BLACK SABBATH, DEATH, KING DIAMOND, and of course, Iced Earth. You can hear and see Freddie covering tracks from a few of the bands above not only on bass, but also guitar at his personal MySpace page."
Says Jon Schaffer, "I feel like Freddie is the right guy for the gig, he has the chops, the attitude, and from the videos I've seen, a commanding, energetic, and intense stage presence that will fit in nicely with what Iced Earth has always strived to be. I had a strong feeling about him based on the material that he sent and our phone discussions, so I asked him to fly up here before the slated auditions were to commence later in the month. After meeting Freddie in person and watching him play up close and personal, I didn't feel the need to continue the search. He's going to fit right in. We welcome him on board and look forward to jamming together at our first gig at Chicago Powerfest on May 2! Finally, I would like to personally thank everyone who auditioned for the position, and I wish you the best in your future endeavors!"
16 March 2008
Dutch Progressive metallers FEED FORWARD have released their latest album, "Barefoot And Naked" (see Archive CD/DVD reviews), via Rusty Cage Records. A press release follows from the label: "For some time we were looking for a progressive metal band. Finally we found one with an added bonus: Female vocalist Biejanka! The band has been around for five years now, and found its own unique style."
16 March 2008
After completing a successful trip to Switzerland and Germany in February, UK power metallers CONQUEST OF STEEL once again prepare to hit the continent as they embark on a tour taking in Holland, Belgium, Germany, Czech Republic and Switzerland. The tour kicks off on the 20th March at The Ship in Croyden (London).
Full details as follows:
March
20 - Croyden, UK - The Ship
21 - Antwerp, Belgium - De Rots
22 - Eindhoven, Holland - Dynamo Café
23 - Berlin, Germany - Kopi
24 - Prague, Czech Republic - Exit Chmelnice
26 - Uster, Switzerland - Rock City
27 - Ghent, Belgium - The Frontline
28 - Amsterdam, Holland - The Cave supprt Jinx
29 - Leeuwarden, Holland - Mukkes
30 - Tilburg, Holland - Little Devil
Conquest of Steel will then take a break from gigging to concentrate on writing material for their upcoming third album to be recorded during summer 2008 and to be released early 2009.
9 March 2008
BENEDICTUM & PICTURE are the latest acts confirmed for the Headbanger's Open Air, which is scheduled to take place July 24th - 26th, 2008 in Brande-Hornerkirchen, Germany. The US metallers from BENEDICTUM- who recently released their new album "Seasons Of Tragedy" - will co-headline on July 24th. PICTURE was the first "real" Dutch heavy metal band. Formed in 1979, they were especially popular in the Netherlands, Germany and Italy for their live performances. They still have a huge fan base in South America, Mexico and Japan.PICTURE supported AC/DC, TED NUGENT and SAXON in the Netherlands. With SAXON, they did a full European tour in 1981. Later on they toured with ROSE TATTOO in Germany and headlined tours in Italy and Israel.
In other news SEVENTH CALLING have cancelled their appearance.
Bands currently set for the festival include: ABANDONED, AMULANCE, ANCESTRAL, AXEHAMMER, BENEDICTUM, BLACK HAWK, DEADLY BLESSING, DEATH SS, DETENTE, IMPALER, LETHAL, MESSENGER, MORTAL SIN, NEW EDEN, PARADOX, PICTURE, PRAYING MANTIS, REBELLION, RESISTANCE, SEASONS OF THE WOLF, SUPREMACY, SWEET SAVAGE, THE GATES OF SLUMBER, WILD DOGS.
9 March 2008
Members of '80s German thrash metal cult EXUMER began negotiating a full-fledged reunion for 2009. The projected reunion includes a new album, re-releases of the band's two albums from the 1980s and a substantial tour.
9 March 2008
Singer Ski (ex-Deadly Blessing) issued an update on FAITH FACTOR:
"We are currently in the recording studio, working on our debut full length cd called "AGAINST A DARKENED SKY". Eight new songs of US power metal plus 3 remastered songs of the debut cd 777 ep. We have also written a song called 'Keep It True', in honor off such a great festival and fans, of Europe, a new power ballad "In Rememberance", and the 11 min epic "Ascend Unto Heaven". The release date is 11/1/08 or sooner, we are working hard to have it when we play Keep It True 11 on nov 15th 08"
Metal Blessings
Ski
9 March 2008
UFO's live DVD "Showtime" has been scheduled for release on state-of-the-art HD-DVD, including, along with the extras from the regular release, additional bonus material, an "on the fly" menu which can be operated while you are viewing the film, and exciting picture-in-picture interviews. The Showtime HD-DVD will be out on February 22nd in Germany, the 25th throughout the rest of Europe and April 8th in North America via SPV.
9 March 2008
Dutch prog metallers SPHERE OF SOULS have issued the following update:
"Sphere Of Souls are pleased to announce the addition of lead guitarist Alex Rosenhof of PICTURE OF THE MOON and drummer Milan Ridderhof, formerly of DAISY VAIN. Alex and Milan replace former members Anand Mahangoe and Ruud van Diepen respectively, who left the band in early 2007.
The new Sphere Of Souls line-up is currently rehearsing material from the band’s 2006 debut From the Ashes…, released by Lion Music. Material for a second album is also in the works and the band will resume live work within the next few months.
9 March 2008
VICIOUS RUMORS have enlisted new guitarist Kiyoshi Morgan. According to a press release "Kiyo is a long time SF Bay Area pro, playing lead guitar in several tribute bands covering the styles of SLAYER, JUDAS PRIEST, IRON MAIDEN and ALICE IN CHAINS. With the support of Gibson Guitars and Sfarzo Strings, Kiyo has found an identity in Vicious Rumors as an old school rock and metal guitarist with powerful anthem riffs and blistering, yet musical leads!"
Guitarist Geoff Thorpe comments: "Kiyo just fit in and sounded great!! Our guitar styles blend really well......and this guy can shred!! Our new line up is as strong as ever. I can't wait to unleash the new VR beast"
The new line up is: Geoff Thorpe: guitar/vocals, Larry Howe: drums/vocals, Stephen Goodwin: bass/vocals, Ronnie Stixx: lead vocals, Kiyoshi Morgan: guitar.
9 March 2008
AGENT STEEL, LAUREN HARRIS and TESLA have been confirmed for this year's Graspop Metal Meeting, set to take place June 27-29, 2008 at De Boeretand in Dessel, Belgium.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows: 36 CRAZYFISTS, AGENT STEEL, ALCHEMIST, APOCALYPTICA, ARCH ENEMY, AT THE GATES, AVENGED SEVENFOLD, BEHEMOTH, BLACK STONE CHERRY, BLEEDING THROUGH, BRING ME THE HORIZON, BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE, CAVALERA CONSPIRACY, COMEBACK KID, CONVERGE, DEATHSTARS, DEF LEPPARD, DYING FETUS, FORBIDDEN, HELMET, HOLLENTHON, ICED EARTH, IMMORTAL, IN FLAMES, IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST, KISS, KORPIKLAANI, LAUREN HARRIS, MADBALL, MINISTRY, MORBID ANGEL, MY DYING BRIDE, NILE, NOVEMBERS DOOM, OBITUARY, OPETH, PRIMORDIAL, ROTTING CHRIST, ROSE TATTOO, SABATON, SAXON, SOILWORK, SONATA ARCTICA, SYMPHONY X, TESLA, TESTAMENT, THROWDOWN, VOLBEAT, WHITESNAKE, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN
9 March 2008
MORBID ANGEL are currently auditioning guitar players for their upcoming tour. Interested parties should contact worldentertainment@comcast.net "Pros only" need apply. MORBID ANGEL is currently in the studio working on material for its first studio album since 2003's "Heretic". The upcoming CD will mark the group's first release to feature frontman David Vincent since 1995's "Domination". The band is presently unsigned, having parted ways with Earache Records following "Heretic"'s release. Although MORBID ANGEL's upcoming album does not currently have a name, its title will likely begin with the letter "I", in keeping with the band's tradition of titling their albums in alphabetical order beginning with 1989's "Altars of Madness", and continuing through "Heretic".
9 March 2008
Vocalist DOOGIE WHITE and YNGWIE MALMSTEEN have decided to part company after six and a half years together. Doogie joined the band in September 2001 and recorded two albums 'Attack' and 'Unleash the Fury'. "I had a long chat with Yngwie today and it is clear that he wants to move musically in a new direction. It's great news that he will be expanding on his undoubted talents both as a writer and guitarist. I just want to thank, publicly, Yngwie and the many band members past and present that I have worked with. It seems appropriate that we started our working relationship in South America in Sept 2001 and finished in South America in December 2007. Now anyone need a singer??"
In related news, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN's new CD is now in its final stages of creation, with a tentative release date of July 2008. The new lineup that will be Yngwie on guitars, Tim "Ripper" Owens (ex-JUDAS PRIEST, ICED EARTH) on vocals, Bjorn Englen on bass, Michael Troy on keys, and Patrik Johansson on drums. The new Yngwie Malmsteen lineup will be appearing at the MusikMesse 2008 in Frankfurt, Germany which runs from Thursday, March 13th to Saturday the 15th.
9 March 2008
AUTUMN has announced the addition of singer Marjan Welman to the group's ranks. She replaces Nienke de Jong, who recently announced her departure from the band.
9 March 2008
NEVERMORE vocalist WARREL DANE will finally see a North American release on May 13th. Praise To The War Machine - is due for release on April 29th in Europe via Century Media Records. The complete Praise To The War Machine tracklisting: 'When We Pray', 'Messenger' (featuring Jeff Loomis), 'Obey', 'Lucretia My Reflection', 'Let You Down' (featuring Chris Broderick), 'August', 'Your Chosen Misery' (aka 'Feel Failure'), 'Praise To The Warmachine' (featuring James Murphy), 'Brother', 'Patterns', 'This Old Man', 'Aeon'.
9 March 2008
ICED EARTH complete with returning vocalist Matt Barlow will complete the bill at this year's instalment of the Bang Your Head Festival, set to take place on June 27th - 28th in Balingen, Germany.
The billing is shaping up as follows: JUDAS PRIEST (headliner), QUEENSRYCHE (headliner), SAXON, ICED EARTH, TRAMP'S WHITE LION, GREAT WHITE, HARDCORE SUPERSTAR, RAGE, GRAVE DIGGER, AGENT STEEL, TANKARD, OBITUARY, ONSLAUGHT, ENSIFERUM, KORPIKLAANI, FORBIDDEN, AGENT STEEL, LIZZY BORDEN, SECRECY, BREAKER, TYR, AGE OF EVIL, CONTRACRASH.
9 March 2008
JOB FOR A COWBOY and UNEARTH are the latest acts confirmed for this summer's Wacken Open Air festival, set to take place July 31st - August 2nd, in Wacken, Germany. The Wacken Open Air Festival will be headlined by IRON MAIDEN (on July 31st).
The current line-up includes: AS I LAY DYING, AT THE GATES, AUTUMN, AVANTASIA, AXXIS, BEFORE THE DAWN, CARCASS, CHILDREN OF BODOM, CORVUS CORAX, CREMATORY, CYNIC, DESTRUCTOR, DREAM OF AN OPIUM EATER, ENEMY OF THE SUN, ENSIFERUM, EXCREMENTORY GRINDFUCKERS, EXODUS, EVOCATION, GIRUGUMESH, GOREROTTED, GORGOROTH, GRAVE, HATEBREED, HEADHUNTER, IRON MAIDEN, JOB FOR A COWBOY, KAMELOT, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE, KREATOR, KRYPTERIA, LEAVES' EYES, LORD BELIAL, LORDI, MACHINE MEN, MERCENARY, NIFELHEIM, NIGHTWISH, OBITUARY, OPETH, AXEL RUDI PELL, POWERWOLF, PRIMORDIAL, PSYCHO PUNCH, SABATON, SALTATIO MORTIS, SOILWORK, SONATA ARCTICA, STURM UND DRANG, THE BONES, 3 INCHES OF BLOOD, UNEARTH, VAN CANTO, WATAIN, WARBRINGER.
25 February 2008
On March 26th, Bronze Records in Japan will be releasing MOTORHEAD's early catalog as Limited Edition Paper Sleeves. The following remastered titles will be available: Overkill (1979), Bomber (1979), Ace Of Spades (1980), No Sleep 'Til Hammersmith (1981), Iron Fist (1982), Another Perfect Day (1983), Orgasmatron (1986), Rock 'N' Roll (1987), No Sleep At All (1988).
In other news: MOTORHEAD's Mikkey Dee, guitarist Phil Campbell and frontman Lemmy "have all gathered in Los Angeles to begin working on a follow up to the Kiss Of Death album."
25 February 2008
VOIVOD will enter the studio this spring to record its final album using songs left behind by founding guitarist Denis "Piggy" D'Amour, who died in August 2005 from colon cancer. An official band statement reads as follows:
"There remain 13 songs that Denis D'Amour (Piggy) had written with the band that have yet to be recorded. Michel Langevin (Away) and Denis Belanger (Snake) will track the last songs this spring bringing all the past and present members together to participate in a homage to the guitar legend of Piggy and the legacy of 25 years of a brotherhood forged by exploring metal, rock and punk ethics with an other worldly premise.
Jean-Yves Theriault (Blacky) and Eric Forrest (E-FORCE) have eagerly agreed to contribute bass tracks along with Jason Newsted (Jasonic). The End Records and Nuclear Blast will release this final record once completed. VOIVOD may play select shows after the release as a thank you to the fans and to bring closure to a great career."
25 February 2008
Patrick Mameli has set "Resurrection Macabre" as the title of the new album from the resurrected late '80s/early '90s death metal outfit PESTILENCE, tentatively due in early 2009 via Holland's Mascot Records. Joining Mameli in the group's new lineup are Tony Choy (ATHEIST, CYNIC) on bass and Peter Wildoer (DARKANE, NON-HUMAN LEVEL) on drums. Patrick is currently working on new material which he has described as a modern fusion of "Testimony of the Ancients" (1991) and "Spheres" (1993), but even more technical and brutal. The group's new album will tentatively be recorded this fall by Danish producer Jacob Hansen (RAUNCHY, INVOCATOR) and produced by Patrick himself.
25 February 2008
ICED EARTH,with returning vocalist Matt Barlow, will complete the bill at this year's instalment of the BANG YOUR HEAD FESTIVAL, set to take place on June 27th - 28th in Balingen, Germany.
The billing is shaping up as follows: JUDAS PRIEST, QUEENSRYCHE, SAXON, ICED EARTH, TRAMP'S WHITE LION, GREAT WHITE, HARDCORE SUPERSTAR, RAGE, GRAVE DIGGER, AGENT STEEL, TANKARD, OBITUARY, ONSLAUGHT, ENSIFERUM, KORPIKLAANI, FORBIDDEN, AGENT STEEL, LIZZY BORDEN, SECRECY, BREAKER, TYR, AGE OF EVIL, CONTRACRASH.
25 February 2008
IMAGIKA will release their new album, "Feast for the Hated", in the U.S. on May 20 via Locomotive Records. The CD will arrive in Europe on April 25.
25 February 2008
UFO's live DVD Showtime has been scheduled for release on state-of-the-art HD-DVD, including, along with the extras from the regular release, additional bonus material, an "on the fly" menu which can be operated while you are viewing the film, and exciting picture-in-picture interviews. The Showtime HD-DVD will be out on February 22nd in Germany, the 25th throughout the rest of Europe and April 8th in North America via SPV
25 February 2008
MARTY FRIEDMAN's forthcoming album "Future Addict", is due to be released in Japan on March 12th via Avex. This album features reworked, reconstructed, completely remade versions of some of the coolest songs from Marty's entire career. According to his website, "everything from his first band, DEUCE, to his current Japanese stuff, it is all in there and all of it is on steroids. There are also three new songs including the first single, 'Simple Mystery'. Vocals on the entire album are handled by none other than Marty's longtime drummer, Jeremy Colson, making his worldwide vocal debut.
25 February 2008
METAL CHURCH have issued the following update:
"Due to personal reasons, Jay Reynolds [also of MALICE] has left METAL CHURCH. We thank him for his contributions to the band, and wish him all the best in future endeavors.
"Jay's replacement has not been decided upon yet, but it will be announced when a decision has been reached."
25 February 2008
San Diego, California-based, female-fronted metallers BENEDICTUM have been confirmed for this year's installment of the Headbangers Open Air festival, set to take place July 24-26, 2008 in Brande-Hörnerkirchen, Germany.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows: ABANDONED, AMULANCE, ANCESTRAL, AXEHAMMER, BENEDICTUM, BLACK HAWK, BLAZE BAYLEY, DEADLY BLESSING, DEATH SS, DÉTENTE, IMPALER, LETHAL, MESSENGER, MORTAL SIN, NEW EDEN, PARADOX, PRAYING MANTIS, REBELLION, RESISTANCE, SEASONS OF THE WOLF, SODOM, SWEET SAVAGE, THE GATES OF SLUMBER,
WILD DOGS
25 February 2008
VENOM's forthcoming is called ''Hell'' and is set for release in May - 2008 through Universal.Update from the band:
"Packed with 13 brand new malevolent tracks from the masters of black metal, Venom are now preparing to unleash this thunderous sequel to their 2006 Metal Black album. With song titles such as: 'Armageddon', 'Straight To Hell', 'Hand Of God', 'USA For Satan', 'The Power & The Glory', 'Evil Perfection', 'Kill The Music' and the title track 'Hell'.
The new album truly shows the power and intensity that is Venom, the trio of Cronos, Antton and Rage deliver the metal album of 2008."
25 February 2008
WHITESNAKE are releasing their new album ''Good To Be Bad'' through SPV / Steamhammer in Germany on April 18 - 2008, rest of Europe on April 21st and North America on April 22nd.
The 11 new songs, written by Coverdale and guitarist Doug Aldrich (who also co-produced the album with Coverdale & Michael McIntyre) provide a good balance of eight rocking tracks and three ballads. Coverdale feels it's the first 'real' Whitesnake album in almost 20 years, commenting "It's very butch. Very muscular..."
13 February 2008
HOT NEWS: VICIOUS RUMORS is proud to announce Ronnie Stixx as our new lead singer.
The Ball keeps rolling with a new CD and tourdates to follow. Ronnie showed up and blew the band away with his powerful voice. The first night he sang with us it was like he was in the band for years. It was amazing Geoff Thorpe said. Ronnie was born in Los Angeles and raised in San Antonio Texas. He has made a name for himself in the metal world with a vocal style that is melodic and aggressive. Ronnie's main influence's are such great vocalist as Carl Albert (VR) Tony Harnell (TNT) and Ronnie James Dio. Ronnie is no stranger to the big stage performing at major festivals through out Europe and the USA. He has fronted such bands as England's SHADOWKEEP and America's DIVINE RUINS. The VR Machine is back!!! A new CD and new Blood. Major world wide touring is in the works. The first show is March 29 at the Britannia Arms in Cupertino Ca.
12 February 2008
A Headbangers Open Air festival update:
SODOM will headline Friday July 25th. and BLAZE BAYLEY is confirmed for Saturday July 26th (playing heeps of Maiden songs)
Jadi-Anne from SUPREMACY is pregnant (congratulations!) therefore Supremacy`s HOA-show is delayed to 2009.
Confirmed so far: Abandonned, Amulance, Ancestral, Axehammer, Black Hawk, Blaze Bayley, Deadly Blessing, Death SS, Detente, Impaler, Lethal, Messenger, Mortal Sin, New Eden, Paradox, Praying Mantis, Rebellion, Resistance, Seasons of the Wolf, Seventh Calling, Sodom, Sweet Savage, The Gates of Slumber, Wild Dogs.
For more info visit their website (see LINKS)
12 February 2008
HIRAX have issued the following update: "We have begun pre-production for the new HIRAX album, 'El Rostro de la Muerte'. Songtitles to date include 'Baptized By Fire', 'Death Militia', 'Battle Of The North', and re-recorded versions of 'Blind Faith' and 'Broken Neck'. Expect more new songs and a lot of surprises. This will be our FASTEST and HEAVIEST album to date, with an emphasis on the technical playing, aggressive double bass drumming, and dual guitar attack! Massive guitar riffs, pounding bass guitar, the vocals — sharp, clear and up front! The production will be top-notch with John Haddad back at the helm again. He also handled the duties for 'Assassins Of War' and 'Chaos And Brutality' EPs. There will be a new HIRAX DVD, 'Thrash And Destroy', including our entire performance at the Keep It True Festival IX [on] November 2007. Six-camera angle video shoot, high quality, professional audio and video. Wait til you see it!!!"
12 February 2008
Former MORBID ANGEL bassist/vocalist Steve Tucker, ex-GRIP INC./ HEATHEN bassist Jason VieBrooks and former FORBIDDEN/MANMADEGOD drummer Steve Jacobs have joined forces in a brand new band which is presently going under the moniker LOWA. We're calling the band LOWA for now. The name will most likely change but ran with that due to not having a solid name when the shows were booked. We've recorded five songs to shop but will play 10 live." He added, "This is the happiest all of us have ever been in a band. We all write very well together and get along great and are looking forward to taking this around the world."
12 February 2008
RAVEN have posted a new mix of the track 'Breaking You Down' from their upcoming album, Walk Through Fire, at www.ravenlunatics.com. Walk Through Fire is tentatively due this spring and will feature these other tracks: 'Long Day's Journey', 'Bulldozer' and 'Walk Through Fire'.
12 February 2008
CELTIC FROST are putting together an album tentatively titled "Monotheist Companion" that will feature unreleased songs from 2006's "Monotheist" sessions and rearrangements of tracks from the album. The disc is scheduled for a summer release.
12 February 2008
HAIL OF BULLETS, the new band featuring GOREFEST drummer Ed Warby, THANATOS guitarists Stephan Gebédi and Paul Baayens, former PESTILENCE/ASPHYX singer Martin Van Drunen and former HOUWITSER bass player Theo van Eekelen, will enter Excess studios in Rotterdam, Holland in February to begin recording its debut album for a May release via Metal Blade Records.
12 February 2008
Guitarist Alan Jordan of ONSLAUGHT has released the following statement: "It is with immediate effect that I will no longer be a part of ONSLAUGHT. I had the best part of three very happy years with the band and recorded what I considered to be a great album and DVD, both of which I'm very proud to be a part of. "Some internal circumstances within ONSLAUGHT changed and certain ideas were moving in a very different direction to what I envisaged. "I have no long-term plans at this moment in time, but would like to thank all the fans across the globe that I have met and spent time with. Respect to you all."
12 February 2008
LOUDNESS will release their new album, "Metal Mad", through Tokuma Communications on February 20 in Japan. Release dates for other territories have not yet been announced
12 February 2008
The Dutch heavy metal band ROADKILL is in URGENT need of a new vocalist ! Our singer Marc Mes has to leave the band directly, completely unexpected, due to serious family circumstances. The bandmembers are supporting his decision and want to wish Marc and his family all the best.
After the release of the "Dark Side" EP, ROADKILL is now in a fase of many gigs for the upcoming period.Therefore we ask serious candidates to contact us as soon as possible. For more info, please visit www.myspace.com/roadkillheavymetal and www.roadkill.nl.
Candidates can send their mail to info@roadkill.nl, please mention in the subject line " VOCALIST ". Tell us something about yourself in the mail, add your contact-info and we will appreciate it if you can add some mp3's or links to a website or MySpace, so we can check you out. ROADKILL wants to state that all planned shows for the upcoming weeks will go ahead ! Till we have found a new singer, the band gets help from a temporary vocalist. Please visit the website or MySpace for the upcoming gigs with Vengeance and Joe Stump !
12 February 2008
Los Angeles based CRESCENT SHIELD is working on the follow-up for their great ''The Last of My Kind'' album.
The new album will be released by CRUZ DEL SUR MUSIC after summer 2008, but some details are beginning to be unveiled such as that the album will be entitled, "The Stars of Never Seen", and Gerry Alanguilan (Marvel/DC), after the excellent result of his cover-illustration for ''The Last of My Kind'', will be again responsible of the artwork.
12 February 2008
Many of you already were aware that after the release of ''Road Of Bones'', IGNITOR was hit by two departures that inevitably put on ice their live-activity as well as the composition of new material: first left singer Erika, then it was the turn of guitarist Annah Moore.
The band started looking out for replacement and the first, great result is that the search of a new guitarist has ended, having original guitarist Beverly Barrington rejoined the band!
''We're excited about ''re-igniting'' the sparks of inspiration for songs like 'Demon Slayer' and 'Last King Tiger' affirmed drummer Pat Boyle, expecting some good news on the vocal-front by the end of January. Stay tuned! www.myspace.com/ignitor
16 January 2008
Colorado metallers JAG PANZER have announced the addition of Christian Lasegue as their new lead guitarist. Those familiar with the band's "Chain of Command" release will recognize his name as the lead guitarist on that album.
Guitarist Mark Briody comments: "We had set the bar pretty high for lead guitar playing with our first full-length album. There was much concern among fans and critics as to whether or not we could maintain such a high level of musicianship in the lead guitar department. Christian quelled those concerns about two seconds into his first solo. A large part of the underground popularity of 'Chain of Command' is easily attributed to the electrifying guitar playing of Christian Lasegue. Christian was a great guitar player back then and his chops are light years beyond that today. I'm excited to be working with him again."
Christian first gig back with the band will be on stage as headliners at the prestigious Keep It True festival this April in Germany.
16 January 2008
EXCITER have issued the following update: "The new EXCITER album 'Thrash Speed Burn' is completed! The final mixes were put together last week, the interviews have been edited, and the artwork is in the final stages. Everything is on its way to Massacre and the CD should be out in late February. It's been a long road, but it has been worth it, and the final product RIPS!!!" Due on February 22, "Thrash Speed Burn" will mark EXCITER's recorded debut with new singer Kenny "MetalMouth" Winter, who joined the band in October 2006.
16 January 2008
Utah-based progressive/power metallers KATAGORY V have officially parted ways with lead vocalist Lynn Allers and guitarist Marc Hanson. This comes only a few short months after the release of the band's fourth album, "Hymns of Dissension" (Nightmare Records in the USA, Burning Star Records in Europe).
16 January 2008
Dave Mustaine has finally officially confirmed that MEGADETH has parted ways with guitarist Glen Drover and replaced him with Chris Broderick (NEVERMORE, JAG PANZER).
"I've noticed [on the Internet] that people are pissed with me over the way things were handled with Glen quitting the group," says Mustaine, "but they're gonna be pissed even more when they hear how fierce we are with Chris! MEGADETH is playing at a new level."
16 January 2008
German progressive metallers DREAMSCAPE have been confirmed as one of the support acts for SYMPHONY X on their upcoming European tour. Also scheduled to appear are Norway's CIRCUS MAXIMUS. The package will play all dates below except London (Astoria) and the Atarfe Vega Rock festival in Spain; the London show will have EPICA as an opening band.
Feb. 13 - Hamburg, Germany - Markthalle
Feb. 14 - Cologne, Germany - Live Music Hall
Feb. 15 - Hellendoorn, Netherlands - Lantaarn
Feb. 16 - Zoetermeer, Netherlands - Boerderij
Feb. 17 - Stuttgart, Germany - Die Röhre
Feb. 19 - Berlin, Germany - Columbia Club
Feb. 20 - Frankfurt, Germany - Batschkapp
Feb. 21 - Nurnberg, Germany - Hirsch
Feb. 22 - Pratteln, Switzerland - Z7
Feb. 23 - Munich, Germany - Backstage Werk
Feb. 25 - Florence, Italy - Viper Club
Feb. 26 - Piacenza, Italy - Fillmore
Feb. 28 - Bergara, Spain - Sala Jam
Feb. 29 - Barcelona, Spain - Razzmatazz 2
Mar. 01 - Madrid, Spain - La Riviera
Mar. 02 - Bordeaux, France - Krakatoa
Mar. 04 - Lyon, France - Transbordeur
Mar. 05 - Paris, France - Bataclan
Mar. 06 - London, England - Astoria
Mar. 08 - Granada, Spain - Atarfe Vega Rock Festival
16 January 2008
British metallers BOLT THROWER have issued the following update:
"If you're wondering why there hasn't been a lot of Bolt Thrower news for a while, that's because we are still in writing mode for the new album, which we plan to record in the summer. And during the break between the recording and mixing of the album, we will play Party.San Metal Open Air Festival in Bad Berka, Germany on 7-9th August, our only festival of the year.
16 January 2008
Rock Candy Records, a label focusing on the reissue of vintage hard rock from the '70s, '80s and '90s, set up and run by former Kerrang! writers/current Roadrunner A&R executives Dante Bonutto and Derek Oliver, will re-release WARRIOR's classic "Fighting for the Earth" LP later in the year. More information will be made available soon. In other news, WARRIOR mastermind/guitarist Joe Floyd is once again working with the group's original frontman Parramore Thomas McCarty, who sang on WARRIOR's first two albums. No further details are currently available.
16 January 2008
HEADHUNTER, the reunited German band featuring DESTRUCTION frontman Marcel "Schmier" Schirmer, STRATOVARIUS drummer Jörg Michael, and guitarist Schmuddel (ex-TALON), is currently mixing its comback album, "Parasite of Society", with Achim Köhler in Stuttgart, Germany. According to a posting on the DESTRUCTION web site, "this pure metal masterpiece will be released in April 2008 via AFM Records in Europe, Candlelight Records in the USA, and King Records in Japan." HEADHUNTER had its trio of albums originally issued during Schmier's years away from DESTRUCTION — "Parody of Life" (1990), "A Bizarre Gardening Accident" (1992), and "Rebirth" (1994) — re-released on September 7, 2007 via AFM Records.
16 January 2008
STORMWARRIOR will release its third studio album, "Heading Northe", on February 22 via Dockyard 1. The CD was recorded at the group's own Thunderhall Studios and was mixed with Piet Sielck (SAVAGE CIRCUS, IRON SAVIOR) before it was mastered at Tommy Hansen's (HELLOWEEN, HAMMERFALL, PRETTY MAIDS) Jailhouse Studios in Denmark.
16 January 2008
DEAD HEAD signed a record deal with Displeased Records. Expect the new full length in the summer of 2008!
5 January 2008
Stormspell Records will re-release CAULDRON BORN's "Born of the Cauldron" LP on January 7.
According to a press release "Born of the Cauldron" is "undoubtedly one of the best U.S. power metal gems from the mid-'90s! A honest, crunchy epic metal, with soaring high-pitched vocals, and sword and sorcery/fantasy lyrics based on Robert E. Howard stories. The album quickly generated cult status in the underground, and faithful and dedicated support by many fans worldwide. The original pressing on Undergroound Symphony from a decade ago has been sold out ever since, and became hot collector's item, often clocking $100+ on eBay. Now, thanks to Stormspell Records everyone should be able to obtain it for a fraction of that price!"
The album has been remastered from the original DAT tapes by Corbin King (VAINGLORY), packaged with 12-page stapled booklet with revamped artwork, new introduction and liner notes written by Howie Bentley, and one exclusive bonus track added as bonus: cover version of "Lucifer's Hammer" by the mighty WARLORD. This 10th-anniversary hand-numbered edition, limited to 1000 copies, will be released in three different versions.
To order, go to this location.
5 January 2008
The lineup for NWOBHM legends TOKYO BLADE includes founding lead guitarist Andy Boulton, former ARREST lead guitarist Bryan Holland, current OVERLOADED vocalist Chris Gillen and drummer Lorenzo Gonzalez and former MINDCANDY bassist Frank Saparti.
The band are currently booking a European tour with confirmed dates in November 2008 on the NWOBHM Festival II in Athens (November 8th), Greece and the Keep It True Festival (November 14) in Germany. The band recently started rehearsals with an eye on writing and recording a new studio album.
"This is the band that Tokyo Blade never was and always should have been!" original founding guitarist Andy Boulton recently stated. "The first rehearsal was simply unbelievable, the classic Tokyo Blade songs are so heavy and powerful. Its going to be unreal when we get onstage and then into the studio" commented fellow guitarist Bryan Holland.
5 January 2008
HUMAN PARADOX, the new project featuring JACOB'S DREAM vocalist Chaz Bond, CHOPS FROM HELL/LEGACY guitarist Darin Moore and LEGACY drummer Andy Hall are currently hard at work recording their debut at Refraze Studio, Dayton, Ohio. JACOB'S DREAM recently performed at The CrossFire Concert in Puerto Rico on October 13 in support of their Metal Blade Records release, "Drama Of The Ages" and are currently working on it's follow-up, Dominion Of Darkness.
"Human Paradox will be much more heavy, progressive and technical than our previous projects with lots of 'over the top' playing and odd time meters - including a nine and a half minute epic," says guitarist Darin Moore. A sneak peak can be seen at www.myspace.com/darinjmoore. The band is also seeking a 'skilled' keyboardist to complete the project. Anyone interested can contact the band through the above mentioned site for more info.
5 January 2008
US thrashers BELIEVER have issued the following studio update:
"Joey has completed tracking drums except for one "interesting" tune. He will be completing this next weekend. I have finished tracking the initial rhythm guitar tracks also. So far, we are very happy with how things are sounding. We hope to start tracking bass and more guitars over the weekend. We'll try to get some studio footage posted in the near future, so that you can witness some of the madness that's taking place.
I hesitate to predict a release date, but we are shooting for a May/June timeframe. If we can get it out quicker we will, but as you know, we don't like to rush things. It's been fourteen or so years, so I'm sure a couple of extra months won't cause any distress. We just want it to sound amazing for you. As for how we will release the new material, this is still being discussed. Once we are in the mixing phase we will be finalizing the release plans and letting you know. Thanks again for your patience and support. Have an excellent and safe New Year!"
In other news, Metal Mind Productions recently released remastered versions of Believer's three albums: Extraction From Mortality, Sanity Obscure and Dimensions on November 5th in a new digipak edition, limited to numerated 2000 copies. Digitally remastered using 24-Bit process on golden discs.
5 January 2008
The final demo recorded DEFIANCE prior to morphing into INNER THRESHOLD is now available for download from DEFIANCE's web site. The demo, recorded in the winter of 1994 was produced by Rob Beaton (HEATHEN, DEFIANCE).
15 May 2008