NEWS ARCHIVE 2004
NEWS ARCHIVE 2004
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| 31 December 2004
California metal merchants LEATHERWOLF are currently working on their first studio album since 1989's Street Ready.
After tracking a 3-song demo with RACER X frontman Jeff Martin earlier in the year, the band are again looking for a suitable vocalist to complete the new recording.
Interested parties (no Geoff Tate clones, please!) can contact the band at leatherwolfinfo@cox.net or send demo/photo/bio to: Leatherwolf Music, 24112 El Tiradore Circle, Mission Viejo, CA 92691.
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| 31 December 2004
OBITUARY frontman John Tardy has revealed in a posting to the group's official web site that 10 songs have been completed for the band's much-anticipated new studio album, tentatively due next summer via Roadrunner Records. A DVD release is also expected sometime next year.
OBITUARY's as-yet-untitled new CD will mark their first collection of new songs since 1997's "Back From the Dead".
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| 31 December 2004
SOLITUDE AETURNUS frontman Robert Lowe underwent surgery on Monday (Dec. 27) to remove his gallbladder and is now said to be back home and recovering.
In addition to Lowe's gallbladder being in worse shape than expected, the doctor reportedly told Robert that a lower abdominal hernia was also found and repaired during the operation. As a result, the singer's recovery time may be longer than originally anticipated, which in turn will likely delay by a few weeks the vocal recordings for the group's new album, "Alone".
The group's first studio album since 1998's "Adagio", "Alone" is due late spring/early summer through Massacre Records in Europe and Olympic/Century Media Records in the U.S. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Waiting for the Light", "Essence of Black", "Sightless" and "In Hell I Burn".
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| 31 December 2004
VICIOUS RUMORS have announced that they will be releasing their upcoming DVD, 'Crushing The World Part 1', in February/March 2005 through Mascot Records. The band promise that they will be part of next summer's European Festival circuit as well.
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| 31 December 2004
OUTBURST finished recording, mixing and mastering of their debut album 'Fair And Balanced'. On www.myspace.com/outburst you can listen to a stream of three of the new songs. On this location you can download two songs. The album will be released through an as of yet undisclosed record company in the first half of 2005.
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| 31 December 2004
Alexi Laiho, guitarist for CHILDREN OF BODOM, had an accident recently. According to keyboard player Janne Warman: "He 'fell' down from about 150cm high on his wrist and right side of his face. I didn't even notice his face, I was so worried about his wrist 'cause I saw how he fell and I knew that it had to hurt his arm. I picked him up and was asking about the wrist when others with us noticed that his face was bleeding pretty bad. We went to the hospital and now he has a cast on for 5 weeks, I guess. I hope his wrist is okay when they remove the cast and he can start playing again."
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| 31 December 2004
FLOTSAM AND JETSAM update from drummer Craig Nielsen:
"At long last, we start the record on January 2nd, after a series of delays, some to do with the band and some to do with the label. We are very recharged and ready to do a great Flotsam record.
Also, the video of one of our recent Tokyo shows came out even much better than we could have ever imagined thanks to the intense professionalism of the Japanese who recorded it, and the fact that it was one of the very best live shows this band has captured in their entire career. So we will shop it for another live release, as it actually blows away even our recent DVD.
Bad news for the European FLOTSAM AND JETSAM / METAL CHURCH tour. The story has changed at least 5 times from the 3 different agencies involved so I wont even bother trying to decipher what really happened, but the tour is off. Agents have a tendency to lie a lot and constantly change what they come strong and sure at you with in the beginning as a proposal. We are still getting many, many emails from Europeans who would really like to see Flotsam so we may still make it happen.
As always, a very sincere thank you to all loyal Flotsam fans who continue to show so much support through all the bullshit!
Flots Til Death.”
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| 31 December 2004
DIAMOND HEAD have been confirmed as special guests on MEGADETH's European tour.
Starting in Ireland and the UK, the dates are as follows:
February
1 in Dublin, Ireland at Ambassador
2 in Belfast, Ireland at Ulster Hall
3 in Glasgow, Scotland at Academy
4 in Birmingham, UK at Academy
5 in Nottingham, UK at Rock City
7 in Manchester, UK at Academy
8 in London, UK at Astoria
9 in London, UK at Astoria
10 in Antwerp, Belgium at Hof ter Lo
11 in Tilburg, Holland at 013
13 in Copenhagen, Denmark at Vega
14 in Oslo, Norway at Rockefeller
15 in Stockholm, Sweden at Arenan
17 in Hardenberg, Holland at Podium
18 in Luxembourg, Luxembourg at Den Atelier
19 in Koln, Germany at LMH
20 in Munich, Germany at Elserhalle
21 in Milan, Italy at Alcatrazz
23 in Barcelona, Spain at Razzmatazz
24 in Bergara, Spain at Jam
25 in Madrid, Spain at Macumba
26 in Granada, Spain at Festival
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| 31 December 2004
HANKER have updated their official website (see LINKS) with some new band photos. Check out shots taken by Mario van Dooren (THAT'S ME!!) at Germany’s Headbangers Open Air festival in 2004 at their website . Also available from Mario van Dooren are shots from the Headbanger’s Ballroom.
And last but not least, photos from Hanker’s Web Of Faith record launch in Quebec City can be found on their website (see LINKS)
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| 31 December 2004
DEW SCENTED will head to Stage One Studios at the end of January with producer Andy Classen to begin recording a new album. The band reportedly has 12 songs in the can and will likely finish three or four more before recording begins. A worldwide release of the new album is tentatively set for May.
Dew-Scented are also planning to do a few dates in April with GRAVE, most likely in Holland, as well as the complete European summer festival circuit.
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| 24 December 2004
DEBRIS INC., the new group featuring SAINT VITUS mainman Dave Chandler and ex-TROUBLE bassist Ron Holzner, have inked a deal with Lee Dorrian's (CATHEDRAL) Rise Above Records.
The group's debut album is tentatively scheduled for a March 2005 release.
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| 24 December 2004
Johan Lindstrand of THE CROWN and Valle Adzic of IMPIOUS have formed a new band called ONE MAN ARMY AND THE UNDEAD QUARTET. The line-up is not complete yet, but the boys are ready to kick some serious ass! You can check out their website at: http://escape.to/onemanarmy.
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| 24 December 2004
TIWANAKU vocalist/guitarist Emo Mowery (LEASH LAW) has announced that guitarist Rick Renstrom bowed out a few weeks ago "because he just couldn't play the rhythms anymore without hurting himself." The day after he made the decision to leave, Renstrom called a friend, Mike Estes (ACHERON, BURNING INSIDE) to replace him. According to Mowery, Estes has fit right in. He was informed last night that he'd gotten the gig.
The band is working on a new website (www.tiwanakuband.com) and expect to have it up and running by the beginning of the new year.
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| 24 December 2004
Latest acts that are confirmed for the 2005 edition of the Headbangers Open Air festival (see LINKS): HEATHEN, TYRANT'S REIGN, UNDERCROFT, MIRROR OF DECEPTION, and probably BLOODLUST!!
Already confirmed earlier this year: ATTACKER, INNER WISH, WEAPON, RAVENSTHORN, ALL SOULS DAY, Z-IRON, WARRANT, GASKIN, MYSTERY BLUE, RIVAL, GUNBARREL, NECRODEATH.
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| 24 December 2004
DECEIVER, the Swedish metal band featuring former members of MAZE OF TORMENT and XENOFANES, will enter the Abyss studio in March 2005 with producer Tommy Tägtgren to begin recording their full-length debut, tentatively titled "Riding with the Reaper", for a May release via the newly launched, Gothenburg-based label Iron Fist Productions. A vinyl version will be released at the same time as the CD.
DECEIVER released their self-titled debut mini-CD this past summer. The EP, which features five songs recorded at Abyss with Tommy Tägtgren, was previously said to appeal to "fans of old stuff such as MOTÖRHEAD, MERCYFUL FATE, VENOM, METALLICA and JUDAS PRIEST."
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| 24 December 2004
AGENT STEEL singer Bruce Hall has issued the following update on the band's current activities:
"The new AGENT STEEL album is finished being written as of December 18, 2004. We have some fine-tuning to do and I have to write keeper lyrics for a couple songs, but otherwise it's finished.
"We'll be giving you 11 new songs this time and perhaps a cover of something cool from the '70s. If you guys have any suggestions please write and let us know. We were considering 'Emerald' by THIN LIZZY, but SKYCLAD did it and MASTODON recently covered it so please let us know what you'd like to hear an AGENT STEEL version of.
"Anyway, the new songs are killer. [Of] course, if you think we needed a direction change or you'd like us to tone it down, you'll be disappointed. This is a pure metal record with all the venom you've come to expect from us.
"The titles for 10 of the songs are: 'Fashioned From Dust', 'Though The Heavens Fall', 'Wicked Tongue', 'Hail To The Chief', 'Curse Reborn', 'Patriot', 'Wash The Planet Clean', 'The Machine Will Be Served', 'United Mind', and 'Liberty Lying Bleeding'. We are hoping to begin recording in February 2005 to have it out to you this summer.
"See you Europeans in March and April and hopefully we'll be doing some U.S stuff this next year as well. "We're all really psyched about the new album. It has what we think is our best work yet. It's all very promising and for those of you who know me as the pessimist I tend to be you'll understand that this is very exciting, indeed. AGENT STEEL fans rejoice. We've really kicked some huge ass this time."
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| 24 December 2004
Czech veteran death metal band KRABATHOR (with MASTER's Paul Speckmann) will soon release an 20 years anniversary box set. The double album is titled "20 Years of Madness" and contains all 5 rare demos ("Breath of Death", "Brutal Death", "Pocity Detronisace", "Total Destruction" and "Feelings of Dethronisation").
In total, that makes 33 cult-songs from the late 80's and early 90's, with a playing time of almost 150 minutes PLUS a video of the band as a bonus.
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| 24 December 2004
German metal export number one HELLOWEEN returned to Andi Deris` own Mi Sueno studio at Tenerife, Spain, to commence work on the follow-up to their recent release Rabbit Don’t Come Easy. The yet untitled opus will again be shaped under the rule of ace producer Charlie Bauerfeind ( Blind Guardian, Saxon, Hammerfall etc.), and SPV, the band’s new record company will release the new album by the middle of 2005.
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| 24 December 2004
US death metal legends SUFFOCATION and Swiss dark metallers SAMAEL are the latest acts confirmed for the 2005 edition of the Wacken Open Air Festival which is scheduled to take place August 4th - 6th, 2005 in Wacken, Germany.
Acts currently confirmed for the festival now include: SAMAEL, SUFFOCATION , FINNTROLL, OVERKILL, AXEL RUDI PELL, EDGUY, ACCEPT, SINNER, NIGHTWISH, MARDUK, ENSIFERUM, ILLDISPOSED, ENDSTILLE, MERCENARY, TURISAS, CORVUS CORAX, OBITUARY, EISREGEN, POTENTIA ANIMI.
More acts will be confirmed soon.
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| 24 December 2004
Spitfire Records has announced the tracklisting for the new OVERKILL album, "Relix IV", due in 2005.
It will contain the following ten songs: 'Within Your Eyes', 'Love', 'Loaded Rack', 'Bats In The Belfry', 'A Pound Of Flesh', 'Keeper', 'Wheelz', 'The Mark', 'Play The Ace' and 'Old School'.
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| 24 December 2004
TWISTED SISTER will soon release a DVD, "Still Hungry - Live At Wacken Open Air".
It has an early 2005 release date through Demolition's Detonator Records. Filmed with 16 cameras during the bands headline set in front of over 40,000 fans at the 2003 Wacken Open Air Festival, this DVD shows the band at their live best. Also included is footage detailing the reformation of the line-up after a 12 year sabbatical, and their first "secret" shows before their official reformation.
The tracklisting for the DVD is as follows: ‘What You Don't Know (Sure Can Hurt You)’, ‘The Kids Are Back’, ‘Stay Hungry’, ‘Destroyer’, ‘Knife In The Back’, ‘Under The Blade’, ‘You Can’t Stop Rock And Roll’, ‘I Am, I'm Me’, ‘The Fire Still Burns’, ‘Ride To Live, Live To Ride’, ‘Shoot 'Em Down’, .’We're Not Gonna Take It’, ‘The Price’, ‘Burn In Hell’, ‘I Wanna Rock’, ‘Come Out And Play’, .’S.M.F.’.
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| 24 December 2004
EXODUS’ official website (see LINKS) has been updated with the following message:
“Search for new singer...
We are looking for someone with experience, charisma, and a magnetic stage presence. Vocally must be able to sing all the Souza/Baloff material and bring their own style to the table. Must be able to incorporate different elements into the mix (death metal, thrash and black metal styles). Not looking for saints, but must be clean of any hard drugs. Please send a CD/with picture of yourself and any DVD or VHS tape with live performances if you have one...
Send to:
Exodus - 6331 Fairmount Ave. Suite #427 - El Cerrito, CA 94530, USA.”
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| 24 December 2004
SUN CAGED have issued the following band lineup news:
“Finally the biggest news since the personnel changes a while ago. Sun Caged is complete again!
We found a new singer for the band, his name is Paul Adrian Villarreal. Paul is currently residing in the USA in San Diego (California) but he will be moving to Europe soon.
He is a very talented singer and has a wide range of influences, amongst them are: Daniel Gildenlow, Neal Morse and Russell Allen but also older blues rock singers like Paul Rodgers and Tommy Shaw. Paul impressed us with an MP3 he sent us earlier by singing ‘Hollow’ along with the CD, and when he came over to rehearse with us, he impressed even more by singing the complete album. New stuff is being written, and the band will now concentrate on the next album, which hopefully will be recorded within a year.
We welcome Paul in the Sun Caged camp!"
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| 17 December 2004
IRON MAIDEN are confirmed for Holland’s Bospop Festival (see LINKS), scheduled for July 3rd, 2005 in Weert, Holland.
Confirmed Iron Maiden tour dates now include:
June
12 at Buchholz Football Stadium in Uster, Switzerland
25 at Parc Des Princes in Paris, France
26 at Graspop Festival in Dessel, Belgium
27 at Spektrum in Oslo, Norway
29 at Spektrum in Oslo, Norway
July
3 at Bospop Festival in Weert, Holland
6 at Hartwell Arena in Helsinki, Finland
7 at Hartwell Arena in Helsinki, Finland
9 at Ullevi Stadium in Gothenburg, Sweden
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| 17 December 2004
MOTÖRHEAD have been confirmed for the 2005 edition of the Sweden Rock festival, set to be held June 9-11 in Sölvesborg, Sweden. The band will bring the entire aeroplane stage-rig from the "Bomber" tour — a one-time event only at Sweden Rock.
The complete list of acts currently scheduled to appear at the festival is as follows:
MÖTLEY CRÜE, ACCEPT, KANSAS, STYX, MOTÖRHEAD, DIO, MAGNUM, SAXON, HAMMERFALL, BLACKFOOT, NAZARETH, VIXEN, SONATA ARCTICA, ROBIN TROWER, HELIX, SHAKRA, HELLFUELED, MORGANA LEFAY, SATANIC SLAUGHTER, SYMPHORCE, CRYSTAL EYES, A.C.T, THYRFING
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| 17 December 2004
VIRGIN STEELE are the latest addition to the 2005 edition of the Bang Your Head festival (the 10th Anniversary edition) which is set to take place on June 24th and 25th in Balingen, Germany.
Acts currently confirmed for the festival now include: CANDLEMASS, EXCITER, SEBASTIAN BACH, TWISTED SISTER, MOTÖRHEAD, DIO, SAXON, DORO, GAMMA RAY, NEVERMORE, KROKUS, AXEL RUDI PELL, DESTRUCTION, AMON AMARTH, TANKARD, JAG PANZER, NASTY SAVAGE, VICIOUS RUMORS, VIRGIN STEELE, DEMON.
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| 17 December 2004
The official TYGERS OF PAN TANG website (see LINKS) has been updated with the following band lineup news:
The Tygers Of Pan Tang are pleased to announce their new vocalist: Jacopo Meille.
Jack has previously sung in Italian band MANTRA, of which he is still very much a part.
"...We are over the moon to have found such a great vocalist. This is something we should have done 3 years ago, gone for a totally professional singer. He fits more into the Jon Deverill way of doing things and that suits me just fine. We already have three new tunes done with Jack which just came out of an end of rehearsal jam which we are really happy with. We will be going into the studio with John Mitchell (Arena) to record the new CD and I cannot wait...", said guitarist Robb Weir.
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| 17 December 2004
MORBID ANGEL will be embarking on "The Masters of Chaos" European tour beginning in mid-March. Handling the bass/vocal duties for MORBID ANGEL during the trek will be the group's former singer David Vincent, who recently completed a South American tour with the band following the departure of Steve Tucker.
Tentative dates so far are as follows:
Mar. 18 - TBA
Mar. 19 - Splendid Lille, FRA
Mar. 20 - Oosterport Groningen, NETH
Mar. 22 - The Rock - Copenhagen, DEN
Mar. 23 - KB - Malmo, SWW
Mar. 24 - Rockefeller - Oslo (Inferno Metal Festival), NOR
Mar. 25 - Klubben - Stockholm, SWE
Mar. 26 - Karen - Gothenburg, SWE
Mar. 28 - Markthalle - Hamburg, GER
Mar. 29 - Columbia Halle - Berlin, GER
Mar. 31 - Proxima - Warsaw, POL
Apr. 01 - WZ - Wroclaw, POL
Apr. 02 - Kd Domovina - Prague, CZR
Apr. 03 - Wigwam - Budapest, HUN
Apr. 05 - Estragon - Bologna, ITA
Apr. 06 - New Age - Treviso, ITA
Apr. 07 - Live Music - Milan, ITA
Apr. 08 - Z7 - Pratteln, SWI
Apr. 09 - Live Arena Munster-Breitenfeld - Dieburg, GER
Apr. 10 - Zeche Karl - Essen, GER
Apr. 12 - Transbordeur - Lyon, FRA
Apr. 13 - Elysee Montmarte - Paris, FRA
Apr. 14 - Kulturfabrik Esch-Alsette, LUX
Apr. 15 - Hof Ter Lo - Antwerp, BEL
Apr. 16 - Podium - Hardenberg, NETH
Apr. 17 - Melkweg - Amsterdam, NETH
Apr. 19 - Mean Fiddler - London, UK
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| 17 December 2004
SOLITUDE AETURNUS have posted the following update at their official website (see LINKS):
“Greetings Doomsters:
Well, we are one step closer to finishing the upcoming release of Alone. The drums are completed and the rhythm guitars and bass tracks are being recorded as I write this. If all goes as planned (ha: that never happens) I should be laying vocal tracks come January.
Once again - keep the faith, for Solitude is back and shall reclaim the throne of Doom!”
Solitude Aeturnus plan to release their new album, "Alone", through Massacre (Europe) and Olympic/Century Media (North America) in 2005.
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| 17 December 2004
TESTAMENT will issue their first official DVD through Escapi on March 8th, 2005.
The DVD, "Seen Between The Lines" (first released on VHS in ‘91), features fully remastered live footage of the band shot on their 1991 World Tour. Bonus material to be included on the DVD includes videos for ‘Nobody’s Fault’, ‘Practice What You Preach’, ‘Souls Of Black’ and ‘The Legacy’.
Other extra features on the DVD will include rare video interview footage, "a dinner with Testament", scenes from the Japanese leg of the tour plus additional discography, image gallery and biography sections.
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| 17 December 2004
Due to the fact that their current record label negotiations have taken longer than expected, German thrashers DESTRUCTION have postponed the projected release date of their new album to late summer 2005. "But the new label will be announced in the next weeks, latest at beginning of the next year," the group's bassist/vocalist Marcel "Schmier" Schirmer said in a posting on the band's web site.
DESTRUCTION have finished writing two-thirds of the material for the upcoming CD and are planning on entering the studio in January/February 2005. No further details about the upcoming recording sessions have been made available.
DESTRUCTION's most recent album, "Metal Discharge", was released in September 2003 through Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to 2001's "The Antichrist" was the first DESTRUCTION album to feature drummer Marc Reign, who replaced Sven Vormann in 2001.
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| 17 December 2004
JUDAS PRIEST's upcoming album - featuring the return of frontman Rob Halford - will be called "Angel Of Retribution".
It will be released on February 28th in Europe and the UK, and on March 1st in North America.
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| 17 December 2004
Black Lotus Records have announced the signing of legendary CRIMSON GLORY singer Midnight, who returns after 16 years of absolute silence.
Says the label, “Words are not enough to describe his truly unique voice, which has marked the history of recorded music and placed him among the most influential singers of the 1980’s.”
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| 17 December 2004
Italian progressive metallers LABYRINTH have inked a deal with Arise Records. The band's new album will be entitled "Freeman" and will be issued in March. Recorded and mixed at Elnor Studio in Milan, Italy and mastered at The House Of Audio Studios in Germany, the album is being called "a big step in the new frontier of Labyrinth's sound."
At the same time, Arise records will also re-release, No Limits (originally released in 1996), the first album of the band with Fabio Lione (RHAPSODY) on lead vocals. The album has been remastered and contains two bonus tracks and new graphic.
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| 17 December 2004
The 2005 edition of the Keep It True IV FestivalKeep It True IV Festival will be held on April 2nd, 2005 in Lauda-Koenigshofen, Germany at Tauberfrankenhalle.
Italian cult act ADRAMELCH will be the co-headliner for the Warm Up Show entitled Fist Held High on April 1st 2005 in the Sports Hall Dittigheim. AFTER ALL, MARTYR and one more to-be-announced act will complete the warm-up bill.
The April 2nd Keep It True IV Festival lineup includes: AGENT STEEL, SATAN, DEADLY BLESSING, MAJESTY, OVERLORDE, TORCH, THUNDER RIDER, PARAGON, INSANE, VORTEX.
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| 10 December 2004
Sad news about DAMAGEPLAN:
"Two members of DAMAGEPLAN were reportedly shot and killed, including guitarist Dimebag Darrell, formerly with the band PANTERA.The alleged gunman also died at the scene.
It has been confirmed that a gunman did run on stage during the beginning of Damageplan's set. Dimebag Darrel was shot and killed, as was the band's tour manager. The gunman was shot and killed by a police officer.
Cincinnati's WCPO-TV spoke to Columbus resident Chris Couch, 22, who says the shooting occurred about 30 seconds after Damageplan began their set. Couch, who was standing about 30 feet away from the stage, claims a man wearing a hooded sweatshirt and hockey jersey walked up to the stage. He was followed by a bouncer and another club employee. According to Couch the man climbed onto the stage, started yelling and shot the guitarist five or six times at close range. The gunman also shot a bouncer, who pulled him off the guitarist.
Dimebag Darrel, you'll be missed!!! R.I.P.
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| 10 December 2004
Former STEEL PROPHET singer Rick Mythiasin has a new band going under the name MYTHIASIN. He recently said that the four song demo is being mixed, calling it "very raw and recorded on stone age equipment."
Mythiasin revealed he will also be working on a NEW EDEN album in the near future.
(See REVIEWS for a their latest album review.......)
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| 10 December 2004
ANVIL's next release will be their 13th studio album. They may be calling it "This Is Thirteen", or "TIT" for short.
They plan on having 13 songs on the CD and the cover will be a superstitious theme, as in a broken mirror, black cat
and the anvil under a ladder."
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| 10 December 2004
As previously reported, the 2005 edition of the Keep It True IV Festival will be held on April 2nd, 2005 in Lauda-Koenigshofen, Germany at Tauberfrankenhalle.
The latest acts confirmed for the festival is INSANE, who will get things rolling on Saturday.
The current lineup of bands scheduled to perform now includes: INSANE, AGENT STEEL, SATAN, DEADLY BLESSING, MAJESTY, OVERLORDE, TORCH, THUNDER RIDER, PARAGON, VORTEX.
On the night before (Friday, April 1st) the festival will be holding a warm-up show entitled Fist Held High, featuring AFTER ALL, MARTYR and two more yet-to-be-announced acts.
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| 10 December 2004
A Century Media representative has confirmed that producer Andy Sneap (ARCH ENEMY, MACHINE HEAD) is remixing NEVERMORE’s "Enemies of Reality" album.
The remixed version of "Enemies Of Reality", which was originally produced by Kelly Gray, will be issued through Century Media in early 2005. In related news, Nevermore will hit the studio in February with Sneap to record their next studio album, due out later in 2005.
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| 10 December 2004
HAMMERFALL have announced that the title for their forthcoming album will be "Chapter V: Unbent, Unbowed, Unbroken".
The album will be released on March, 7th through Nuclear Blast and is being produced and mixed by Charlie Bauernfeind (BLIND GUARDIAN, HELLOWEEN), who previously worked with the band on their Crimson Thunder album.
The record will feature following tracks: 'Secrets', 'Blood Bound', 'Fury Of The Wild', 'Hammer Of Justice', 'Never, Ever', 'Born To Rule', 'The Templar Flame', 'Imperial', 'Take The Black', 'Knights Of The 21st Century'.
'Blood Bound' will be released as a single first, coming out on January, 31st. The band recently shot a video for the track, which was done in their hometown of Gothenburg, Sweden.
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| 5 December 2004
Already confirmed for the Headbangers Open Air festival (see LINKS): ATTACKER, INNER WISH, WEAPON, RAVENSTHORN, ALL SOULS DAY, Z-IRON, WARRANT, GASKIN, MYSTERY BLUE, RIVAL, GUNBARREL, NECRODEATH and probably HEATHEN!!
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| 5 December 2004
Already confirmed for the Wacken Open Air festival (see LINKS): ACCEPT, AXEL RUDI PELL, CORVUS CORAX, EDGUY, EISREGEN, ENDSTILLE, ENSIFERUM, FINNTROLL, ILLDISPOSED, MARDUK, MERCENARY, NIGHTWISH, OBITUARY, OVERKILL, POTENTIA ANIMI, TORFROCK, TURISAS
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| 5 December 2004
Legendary German heavy metallers ACCEPT have been confirmed as the first headliners of the 2005 edition of the Sweden Rock festival, set to be held June 9-11, 2005 in Sölvesborg, Sweden.
The complete list of acts currently scheduled to appear at the festival is as follows:
A.C.T., ACCEPT, BLACKFOOT, CRYSTAL EYES, DIO, HAMMERFALL, HELIX, HELLFUELED, KANSAS, MAGNUM, MORGANA LEFAY, NAZARETH, ROBIN TROWER, SATANIC SLAUGHTER, SAXON, SHAKRA, SONATA ARCTICA, STYX, SYMPHORCE, THYRFING, VIXEN
For more information, visit www.swedenrock.com (see LINKS).
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| 5 December 2004
Belgium's AFTER ALL have been announced as the openers at the Keep It True IV Festival warm-up show on April 1, 2005 at Pfarrkeller in Lauda, Germany. Also set to appear at the gig are MARTYR and two other, as-yet-undetermined acts.
The Keep It True IV Festival is scheduled to take place April 2, 2005 at Tauberfrankenhalle in Lauda-Koenigshofen, Germany. The complete list of acts currently scheduled to appear at the festival is as follows:AGENT STEEL, SATAN, DEADLY BLESSING, MAJESTY, OVERLORDE, TORCH,
THUNDER RIDER, PARAGON, VORTEX
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| 5 December 2004
Reunited Swedish doomsters CANDLEMASS have entered Polar studios (ABBA, GENESIS, LED ZEPPELIN) in Stockholm to begin recording their new album, tentatively due in early 2005 via an as-yet-undetermined label.
CANDLEMASS have just released a compilation CD, entitled "Essential Doom", containing the group's best material plus their newly recorded and previously unreleased song "Witches". The album comes with a bonus DVD featuring video footage of the band's performance at the Rock Hard Festival in Germany in 2003.
In other news: CANDLEMASS have been confirmed to appear at the 2005 installment of the Bang Your Head festival, set to take place June 24-25 at Messegelände in Balingen, Germany.
Other confirmed acts so far are as follows: TWISTED SISTER, MOTÖRHEAD, DIO, SAXON, DORO, SEBASTIAN BACH, GAMMA RAY, NEVERMORE, KROKUS, AXEL RUDI PELL, DESTRUCTION, AMON AMARTH, TANKARD, JAG PANZER, EXCITER, NASTY SAVAGE, VICIOUS RUMORS, DEMON
+ 3 more popular acts
+ 1 very special guest
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| 5 December 2004
JUDAS PRIEST will embark on an extensive European trek on February 23rd. The tour will end on the 7th of April. Support at all shows will come from the THE SCORPIONS.
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| 5 December 2004
CIRCLE II CIRCLE are putting the finishing touches to their new studio album. The album was delayed due tot he hurricanes that hit the east coast recently. The album will be titled "Middle Of Nowhere" and is scheduled for February 2005 release through AFM Records.
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| 5 December 2004
Australian heavy metal band PEGAZUS issued the following update:
"Many of you guys have been asking about the New Pegazus songs and album. Well, we are still hard at work on it and we don’t really want to rush anything. So, all we can say at this moment is that we do have a studio booked for January 2005, where we will record a whole bunch of new demos, which we will then shop around to the record labels for a new deal? At this point, we are looking at possibly entering the studios to start officially recording our New full length studio album for you guys around March 2005 if all goes to plan."
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| 5 December 2004
The track list for MASTERPLAN's forthcoming album, "Aeronautics", will be as follows:
'Crimson Rider', 'Back For My Life', 'Wounds', 'I'm Not Afraid', 'Headbanger's Ballroom', 'After This War', 'Into The Arena', 'Dark From The Dying', 'Falling Sparrow' and 'Black In The Burn'.
AFM Records currently have available a clip from MASTERPLAN’s new track, ‘Back For My Life’. "Aeronautics" will be released on January 24th. Mixing of the album was just completed at the famed Finnvox Studios by Mikko Karmilla.
Masterplan will release an EP on November 29th entitled "Back For My Life" as a teaser. The EP will feature the songs 'Back For My Life' (single and album versions), 'Crimson Rider', 'Killing In Time' (non-album track, two different versions) and 'Love Is A Rock'. It will also feature a multi-media section.
A tour through Europe is being planned for March.
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| 5 December 2004
Peaceville Records are currently compiling AUTOPSY footage for an upcoming DVD documenting the legendary death/gore metal band's career. "The band came up with over four hours of material which we've sorted out and made into a, kind of, home movie / road movie type of thing," reads an official press release. "The quality isn't always the best, in fact it can be downright dodgy — but as anyone who knows the band will tell you, this is classic footage!! At least two whole shows, a rehearsal and tons more unique footage will make this one of the most talked about releases of next year."
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| 5 December 2004
VADER bassist Novy's death/thrash metal side project SPINAL CORD have completed work on their second album, entitled "Stigmata of Life". The album was recorded at Screw Factory Studio between May and November 2004 and was produced by SPINAL CORD, engineered by Janusz Bryt, Tomasz Biernacki and Dino, and mixed by Janusz Bryt. It will reportedly be released in December as an attachment to the 6/2004 issue of Thrash 'Em All magazine.
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| 5 December 2004
Influential 1980s Canadian thrash metal band SLAUGHTER have launched their brand new official web site at www.slaughter.ca.(see LINKS)
"SLAUGHTER was a cult Canadian pre-death metal band, who attracted a fanatical following through their short career. Formed in 1984, the band went the usual demo tape route (at a time where underground tape trading was rampant, this only served to heighten band awareness), eventually recording their seminal 'Strappado' album in 1986. Recording commenced on a followup album to be entitled 'Paranormal', but the band broke up in 1990, preventing its release [the album was eventually issued in 2001 via Nuclear Blast]. Guitarist Dave Hewson recruited a new lineup and continued playing as STRAPPADO (the name change both to indicate a new direction and to avoid conflicts with [the cock-rock band fronted by Mark Slaughter]), but they never progressed beyond the demo stage. Later, Hewson and Bobby Sadzak (one of the new STRAPPADO members) formed INNER THOUGHT, which survived for a few years before folding. The band last recorded a song for a CELTIC FROST tribute in 1994 and disbanded for good shortly thereafter."
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| 5 December 2004
WATCHTOWER guitarist Ron Jarzombek has posted the following update on the recording sessions for the group's long-awaited new album, tentatively titled "Mathematics".
"During the past several months, WATCHTOWER has been tweaking the music and finishing up lyrics for the next CD. Last weekend, Rick [Colaluca, drums] went into Melody Ranch studios here in San Antonio, and recorded drums for the first half of the songs. The rest of us will record our tracks in our own home studios. The plan is to complete the first half of the songs, then begin shopping the CD while the rest of the material is being recorded. About a tentative release date..., don't even ask. I have a timetable in my head that I'm following, but I don't want to get into any of that for obvious reasons."
In other news, Jarzombek has started up a project with two "killer" musicians from the death/extreme metal genre. "Over the past few months I have been writing tunes and putting a concept together with these guys," Ron writes on his web site. "Looks like this is going to be all (or mostly) instrumental! I'll be sure to give out specific details as the project materializes..."
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| 5 December 2004
Guitarist Lee Altus of the reunited San Francisco Bay Area thrashers HEATHEN has issued the following update via the band's official message board:
"In a few weeks we'll be entering the studio to record some of the songs that we've been working on. It's going to be more of a pre-production demo kind of thing so we plan on recording 2-4 songs. We have about 12 to choose from but we narrowed it down to about five since those songs are the most complete. I know that we've been taking our time on writing this thing, but we just want it to be a worthy follow-up to our other albums."
HEATHEN recently announced the addition of bassist Jon Torres to the group's ranks. Torres is no stranger to the Bay Area metal scene, having participated in such bands as THUNDERHEAD, WARNING SF, ULYSSES SIREN, LAAZ ROCKIT and ANGEL WITCH. The band, who are currently unsigned, released their latest CD, "Recovered", independently this past spring. The effort featured covers of songs from QUEEN, THIN LIZZY, TYGERS OF PAN TANG and SWEET SAVAGE, as well as an original track, "In Memory of…" (written and dedicated to former band member Randy Laird and lead vocalist David White's brother Jeffrey).
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| 5 December 2004
One of the most controversial of metal bands of all time — the MENTORS — have made a return.
Band leader El Duce was killed in 1997 by a train, just days after being filmed for a conspiracy-theory film alleging he had been hired as a hitman to execute Kurt Cobain. The remaining members, guitarist Sickie Wifebeater and bassist Dr. Heathen Scum, have assembled an all-new-look MENTORS.
New members are vocalist El Rapo, drummer Moosedick and rhythm guitarist Sickie J.
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| 5 December 2004
Century Media will celebrate the 10th anniversary of Swedish power metallers NOCTURNAL RITES with the release of a double-CD set containing their first two albums, due on February 21, 2005. The debut album, "In A Time of Blood And Fire", was released in 1995 on Megarock Records but was only available in small quantities. Two years later the boys from Sweden's northern rock city Umea released their second opus, "Tales of Mystery and Imagination", in Japan (re-released in the rest of the world with different cover artwork on Century Media a year later). Both albums have been out of print for a long time and will be gathered on the new 2CD, "Lost In Time: The Early Years of Nocturnal Rites", along with some rare bonus tracks and special re-recordings with their current vocalist Jonny Lindqvist, who replaced old singer Anders Zackrisson on their fourth album, "Afterlife", in 2000. The booklet features liner notes from bass player Nils Eriksson, along with the original cover artworks and lyrics.
In other news, NOCTURNAL RITES have just finished filming their second video ("Against the World") from their highly acclaimed sixth album, "New World Messiah".
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| 5 December 2004
New York hardcore legends MADBALL have lined up the following European dates:
Dec. 03 - Hof Ter Lo - Antwerpen, BEL
Dec. 04 - Voz Do Operario - Lisbon, POR
Dec. 05 - Rock World - Manchester, UK
Dec. 06 - Garage - London, UK
Dec. 07 - Zeche Carl - Essen, GER
Dec. 08 - Remise - Wil, SWI
Dec. 09 - Rainbow Club - Milano, ITA
Dec. 10 - KGB - Barcelona, SPA
Dec. 11 - Het Bollwerk - Sneek, NETH
Dec. 12 - Doornroosje - Nijmegen, NETH
Dec. 13 - Tonne - Wangen, GER
Dec. 14 - Arena - Vienna, AUT
Dec. 15 - O38 - Budapest, HUN
Dec. 16 - Lochness - Krakow, POL
Dec. 17 - SO 36 - Berlin, GER
Dec. 18 - Conne Island - Leipzig, GER
Dec. 19 - Alter Stadtbahnhof - Schweinfurt, GER
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| 5 December 2004
MOTÖRHEAD frontman Ian "Lemmy" Kilmister offered the following update on his upcoming solo album:
"I got seven tracks done already. I've got two with SKEW SISKIN ['Stand Upon The Mountain' and 'Don't Matter To Me'], which are fucking great! And I've got two with the REVEREND HORTON HEAT, some good psycho-metal-billy! I've got a track from Dave Grohl [PROBOT, FOO FIGHTERS, ex-NIRVANA] that I'm still sorting out and two tracks from THE DAMNED [including a cover of THE DAMNED's 'Neat Neat Neat']. That's with Dave and The Captain! Some good stuff. It should be out sometime next year if the lawyers can all get their heads together."
Guitarist Jim Voxx of SKEW SISKIN, who own Berlin's Monongo studios, is producing/recording and mixing two of the songs for the project, and word is that he might mix the entire CD. A full horn section was recorded, a saxophone player, a blues piano player and a lot more.
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| 5 December 2004
Quebec City-based power/thrash metallers HANKER have parted ways with bassist Denis Cossette. "There are no hard feelings about his leaving and the band is still very motivated and optimistic about the future," the group write on their web site. "We wish the best of luck to Denis with his future projects."
HANKER are currently seeking a replacement bassist. All interested parties, send your name and other information by e-mail to webmaster@hankermetal.com (with "Hanker's bassist" in the subject box).
HANKER's latest CD, "Web of Faith", (see REVIEWS) was released in August via Skycraper Music.
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| 5 December 2004
The 2005 edition of the Dynamo Open Air festival will take place on May 7 in Hellendoorn, The Netherlands — the same location where the 12,000-capacity Dauwpop festival is held every year. An official announcement on the matter is expected soon.
Reunited Dutch metallers GOREFEST are the first band confirmed for the 2005 edition of the Dynamo Open Air festival.
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| 5 December 2004
MEGADETH have announced the dates for the European leg of the "Blackmail the Universe" tour.
Confirmed dates so far are as follows:
Feb. 01 - Dublin, IRE @ Ambassador
Feb. 02 - Belfast, IRE @ Ulster Hall
Feb. 03 - Glasgow, SCO @ Academy
Feb. 04 - Birmingham, UK @ Academy
Feb. 06 - Manchester, UK @ Academy
Feb. 07 - Nottingham, UK @ Rock City
Feb. 08 - London, UK @ Astoria
Feb. 11 - Tilburg, NETH @ 013
Feb. 13 - Copenhagen, DEN @ Vega
Feb. 14 - Oslo, NOR @ Rockefeller
Feb. 15 - Stockholm, SWE @ Arenan
Feb. 17 - Hardenberg, NETH @ Podium
Feb. 19 - Koln, GER @ LMH
Feb. 20 - Munich, GER @ Elserhalle
Feb. 21 - Milan, ITA @ Alcatrazz
Feb. 23 - Barcelona, SPA @ Razzmatazz
Feb. 24 - Bergara, SPA @ Jam
Feb. 25 - Madrid, SPA @ Macumba
Feb. 26 - Granada, SPA @ Festival
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| 5 December 2004
Reunited Atlanta-based thrashers HALLOW'S EVE have set "Evil Never Dies" as the title of their upcoming fourth full-length album, tentatively due in early 2005. The CD is being recorded at Van Gogh Studios in Atlanta, where the band recently completed a two-track single, entiled "Evil Offerings". Engineering duties are being handled by Chris Gailfoil.
The single, the group's first official release in 16 years, features founding members Tommy Stewart on bass and vocals, and Skullator on guitar and lead vocals, along with Brandon Ottinger on guitar and Dane Jensen on drums. "Evil Offerings" contains the following cuts: "Technicolour Roadkill" and "Looking Glass".
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| 5 December 2004
LOUDNESS will release their new album, "Racing", on November 25 via Tokuma Communications.
The complete track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Racing
02. Exultation
03. Lunatic
04. Believe It Or Not
05. Power Generation
06. Speed Maniac
07. Live For The Moment
08. Crazy Samurai
09. Tomorrow Is Not Promised
10. Telomerase
11. R.I.P.
12. Misleading Man
13. Don't Know Nothing
14. Unknown Civilians
LOUDNESS' current lineup consists of the following:
Akira Takasaki – Guitar
Minoru Niihara – Vocals
Masayoshi Yamashita – Bass
Munetaka Higuchi – Drums
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| 5 December 2004
British extreme metal pioneers BOLT THROWER have announced the return of original vocalist Karl Willetts as a full-time member. Willetts rejoins the group as the replacement for Dave Ingram, who left the band in August due to long-standing "health and personal problems."
Commented Karl: "It's fantastic to be a part of the mighty BOLT THROWER again. It feels great to be back with the guys, I can't wait to get my teeth into the new songs and get back on the road again. I've got some unfinished business to tend to...!"
The now complete line-up of BOLT THROWER — Willetts, Gavin Ward, Barry Thomson, Jo Bench and Martin Kearns — will spend the next few weeks finishing off the new material before going into the studio to record their eighth album. The upcoming CD will be the follow up to 2001's "Honour, Valour, Pride", which was the only BOLT THROWER release to feature Ingram on vocals.
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| 5 December 2004
E-FORCE will be teaming up with CARPATHIAN FOREST, TSJUDER and WYKKED WYTCH for a European tour beginning in early February.
E-FORCE is the new band fronted by former VOIVOD bassist/vocalist Eric Forrest. The group's current lineup is rounded out by Dennis Rousell (guitar), Krof (drums) and Jerome Point (lead guitar). The band's debut album, "Evil Forces", was released in October 2003 via France's Season Of Mist. It was recorded at Wild Studio in St-Zenon, Quebec, Canada with producer Pierre Rémillard (CRYPTOPSY, KATAKLYSM, GORGUTS, KRISIUN).
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| 5 December 2004
Italy's LACUNA COIL recently spent time in Milan in pre-production with producer Waldemar Sorychta (TIAMAT, GRIP INC., SAMAEL). The band will soon enter the studio to record the first three songs for their much-anticipated follow-up to 2002's "Comalies". A late 2005 release via Century Media Records is expected.
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| 5 December 2004
BLACK SABBATH guitarist Tony Iommi and occasional collaborator Glenn Hughes are recording a new album, which they hope to release in 2005. Iommi told that the pair — who recently released some recordings they made together in 1996 — will resume working in December and finish early in the New Year. Sanctuary Records will release the album, and Iommi and Hughes hope to tour in support of it.
Kenny Aronoff — whose credits include JOHN MELLENCAMP, JOHN FOGERTY, SMASHING PUMPKINS, MELISSA ETHERIDGE, and MICHELLE BRANCH, among others — is playing drums for the project.
Hughes, a former member of TRAPEZE and DEEP PURPLE, sang on the 1986 album "Seventh Star", which began as an Iommi solo album but was billed, at the record company's insistence, as "BLACK SABBATH featuring Tony Iommi."
Iommi and Hughes recently issued "The 1996 DEP Sessions", featuring eight tracks recorded at DEP Studios in Birmingham, England.
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| 5 December 2004
Reunited hard rockers Y&T — Dave Meniketti, Phil Kennemore, Leonard Haze, John Nymann — have released the second collection of previously unreleased material, "UnEarthed Vol. 2", via their official web site. The disc contains songs that were written and/or demoed for various albums between 1974 and 1989, but never made it to the finished product.
"UnEarthed Vol. 2" track listing:
01. Face To Face
02. Ashes To Ashes
03. Get Tough
04. Showdown
05. Love Has No Cure
06. Help Me Hear Me
07. New Kid In Town
08. Long Time Coming
09. Dance Dance Dance
10. Crazy Make Love
11. Over Under
12. Hands of Time (Acoustic)
13. Bad Bad Girls
14. Take Me
15. More
16. Lucky Night
17. Love Don't Come Easy
18. Cheap and Easy
In other news, Y&T's shows at The Mystic Theatre on December 3-4, 2004 will be recorded for an upcoming DVD, according to a newsletter sent by Y&T frontman Dave Meniketti.
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| 5 December 2004
DESPAIR, the long-defunct German thrash outfit featuring current GRIP INC. guitarist Waldemar Sorychta and Century Media Records founder Robert Kampf (vocals), have reunited and are planning on recording a new album next spring for a tentative summer/fall 2005 release via Century Media.
Joining Sorychta and Kampf in the group's current formation is the group's original drummer, Markus "Makka" Freiwald (VOODOOCULT).
In 1989 DESPAIR supported the legendary DEATH on their European tour.
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| 5 December 2004
AGENT STEEL have finished writing nine new songs for the follow-up to last year's "Order of the Illuminati", tentatively due in 2005. Songtitles set to appear on the as-yet-untitled CD are "Curse Reborn", "Hail to the Chief" and "Wash This Planet Clean". The group plan on writing another four songs before commencing the recording process.
AGENT STEEL are scheduled to perform live at the Keep It True IV festival, set to be held April 2, 2005 at Tauberfrankenhalle in Lauda-Koenigshofen, Germany. Other groups set to appear at the festival include SATAN, DEADLY BLESSING, TORCH and MAJESTY.
In other news, AGENT STEEL's live DVD is still in the works. The as-yet-untitled disc will include live footage from our appearance at Dynamo Open Air 2004 festival in Holland as well as a few songs from the warm-up show at the Effenaar in Eindhoven, Holland and some bonus material. Expect the DVD to be released in late March 2005.
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| 5 December 2004
SOILWORK have confirmed via their official web site that the limited-edition European/U.S. version of their upcoming album, "Stabbing the Drama", will include a bonus track, entitled "Wherever Thorns May Grow". The Japanese edition will feature "Wherever Thorns May Grow" and an additional bonus cut by the name of "Killed by Ignition".
The follow-up to 2003's "Figure Number Five" was recorded at Fascination Street studios in Örebro and Dug-Out Productions in Uppsala, Sweden with producer Daniel Bergstrand (MESHUGGAH, IN FLAMES, STUCK MOJO). A February 28, 2005 release through Nuclear Blast Records is expected.
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| 12 November 2004
MELIAH RAGE have begun work on their new studio record at Danger Multitrack Studios in Providence, RI and Sherwood Forest Studios in Bedford Massachusetts. The record should be done by Febuary for a summer 2005 release.
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| 12 November 2004
FORCE OF EVIL, the new Danish band featuring guitarist Michael Denner (ex-MERCYFUL FATE), guitarist Hank Shermann (MERCYFUL FATE), bassist Hal Patino (KING DIAMOND), drummer Bjarne Holm (MERCYFUL FATE), and vocalist Martin Steene (ex-IRONFIRE), have set "Black Empire" as the title of their sophomore album, tentatively due in early 2005 through Escapi.
12 new songs were recorded at Jailhouse studio in Horsens, Denmark with producer Tommy Hansen (HELLOWEEN, PRETTY MAIDS) and are being described by the band as "raw" and "more brutal" than the group's debut. Mixing duties are being handled by Neil Kernon, who has previously worked with JUDAS PRIEST, QUEENSRŸCHE, NEVERMORE and CANNIBAL CORPSE, among others. "This is our first time we have decided to use a producer in our career, so we are all pretty excited," the band write on their web site.
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| 12 November 2004
INFERNAL MAJESTY and HIRAX will be teaming up for a European tour beginning in February 2005. The tour is now being booked through Metallysee and tour dates will be announced shortly.
INFERNAL MAJESTY's latest album, "One Who Points To Death", was released this past spring through Greece's Black Lotus Records. The North American release is being handled by Canada's Galy Records.
"One Who Points to Death" was recorded by Sho at Profile Sound Studios in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada and was mastered by Pierre Remillard at Wild Studios in St-Zenon, Quebec, Canada. The 47-minute CD is "packed with old school thrash crunch and modern death metal intensity," according to a press release.
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| 12 November 2004
Singer ROB ROCK (ex-IMPELLITTERI, DRIVER, JOSHUA) has signed a worldwide record deal with Germany's AFM Records. Rock and his band, who will continue to record for JVC/Victor Entertainment in Japan/Asia, are currently working on their AFM debut, tentatively due in March/April 2005.
Rock's second solo CD, "Eyes of Eternity", was released in June 2003 through Germany's Massacre Records.
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| 12 November 2004
PHANTOM-X, the new project featuring OMEN singer Kevin Goocher along with guitarist Russell D. Contreras (TYR), bassist Glenn Malicki (STRANGERS) and drummer Danny White (ASKA), will enter the studio later this month to begin recording their new CD with producer Sterling Winfield (KING DIAMOND, PANTERA, DAMAGEPLAN). The new album is expected to include guest vocal appearances by Robert Lowe (SOLITUDE AETURNUS) and Jason McMaster (DANGEROUS TOYS, WATCHTOWER, BROKEN TEETH).
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| 12 November 2004
SYSTEM OF A DOWN's new album tentatively titled "Hypnotize", appears to have had its projected release date pushed back to March 2005 from the previously announced January 18, 2005.
The new CD is the long-awaited follow-up to SYSTEM OF A DOWN's 2001 sophomore effort, "Toxicity", and its companion disc of leftover "Toxicity" tracks, 2002's "Steal This Album!" Rick Rubin is producing the new effort for his American Recordings label, with Jonny Polonsky engineering.
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| 12 November 2004
RUFFIANS , the reunited power metal band that at one time featured in its ranks late VICIOUS RUMORS frontman Carl Albert, will play their first Bay Area show in 15 years with UFO at The Pound in San Francisco on November 19. The band plan to enter the studio early next year to begin recording a new album for a summer 2005 release.
Hellion Records has released the band's original 1985 LP, "Ruffians", which features Carl Albert on vocals, along with six live tracks recorded at The Stone Nightclub in San Francisco on September 28,1985. Hellion has also released a Limited Edition Collectors Vinyl of this original release along with four demo tracks from 1987 with Rich Wilde on vocals. The vinyl is available in four different colors.
RUFFIANS' current lineup includes original members Craig Behrhorst and Chris Atchison (guitars), Luke Bowman (drums), along with Rich Wilde (vocals) and Eric Wong (UNJUST) on bass.
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| 12 November 2004
MOTÖRHEAD 's official web site has been updated with the following message:
"In September of 2004, the world of metal was shocked when the news was unveiled that Lemmy, MOTÖRHEAD's veteran frontman, had sustained an injury to his foot severe enough to cause the band to cancel their much anticipated tour of the United States. Lemmy had managed to get an infection on his foot from an injury sustained on an earlier show. Ignoring doctors' orders, Lemmy forged ahead and finished the highly successful string of European festival dates. 'MOTÖRHEAD fans are the best fans in the world and they deserve everything I have to give,' Lemmy waxed, 'and I am going to do whatever I can to play the shows. F**k the doctors!'
The band went on to play to thousands of fans, bring classics and new songs alike to the hungry metal heads! "The shows were a success, but the infection in Lemmy's foot grew to the point that some serious medical decisions had to be made. On the eve of the band's much-anticipated U.S. tour, doctors advised Lemmy that the infection was so severe that they suggested amputating a part of his foot to stem the spread. Lemmy told the doctors where they could stick their diagnosis and decided to head back to his native home of England and consult his physicians there. They suggested that the best course of action would be to address the infection with a regimen of antibiotics. The cure worked and less than two weeks later Lemmy was out of the hospital, in one piece and as fit as a fiddle, fitted with steel strings. It wasn't long before Lemmy was back to his old self, checking out his favorite London strip club String Fellows with a girl on each arm and plenty of Jack & Coke to make the evening complete. "Given a clean bill of health from all of his physicians, Lemmy, Phil Campbell and Mikkey Dee decided to go ahead with their European tour plans. MOTÖRHEAD kicks off the sold-out tour on November 4th in Dublin, Ireland. Dates continue throughout Europe and Scandinavia until the tour wraps up in Stockholm, Sweden, on December 19th. "As for the U.S. tour? Plans are under way for MOTÖRHEAD to take their spectacular road show to the US in March of 2005 to support their newest record 'Inferno'."
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| 12 November 2004
Vocalist LANA LANE and keyboard wiz ERIK NORLANDER (MARK BOALS, Lana Lane) are working on the next Lana Lane album for a 2005 release.
The plan is to complete the recording in mid-January, 2005 for an April release.
While the writing/demoing process is still underway, Erik Norlander has stated, “We are going for a heavier sound this time, closer to the Secrets Of Astrology concept”.
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| 12 November 2004
Frontiers Records reports that Soul Mover, the new album from the "Voice Of Rock", GLENN HUGHES , is now complete.
The album will include the following tracks (not final tracklisting): ‘Soul Mover’, ‘She Moves Ghostly’, ‘Change Yourself’, ‘High Road’, ‘Let It Go’, ‘Dark Star’, ‘Miss Little Insane’, ‘Land Of The Living’, ‘Isolation’, ‘Last Mistake’, ‘Orion’ and ‘Don’t Let Me Bleed’.
Says Glenn, “This album, in my opinion, is simply the finest work I have ever recorded! I am extremely excited about this release and next year I will be very busy promoting this CD!”.
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| 12 November 2004
Frontiers Records have announced that former RAINBOW, DEEP PURPLE singer, JOE LYNN TURNER has joined the label’s roster.
Joe Lynn is currently busy putting the finishing touches on a new studio album entitled Usual Suspects which is being recorded in New York under the direction of longtime partner and friend Bob Held.
The production will be completed in early December for a release scheduled in February 2005.
Joe Lynn says about the new album: “It’s coming along great… it’s melodic rock… very commercial, with integrity, like a Foreigner 4 with a little Journey mixed in, but still has its tough edges!”
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| 12 November 2004
THE HUMAN CONDITION, the band featuring guitarist Wiley Arnett (ex-SACRED REICH), have updated their official website (www.thehumancondition.us) with news that they have been recording new material.
New track titles include: ‘Smoke & Dust’, ‘Feel’, ‘Feed The Vibe’, ‘Lately I’, ‘Bend’ and ‘Straw’.
Says the band, “The songs solidify new vocalist RY's position in the group and bring some long overdue old school vibe to a starving genre.. Keep your ear to the ground, the rumbles getting louder.”
More details on the new material as they become available.
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| 12 November 2004
Having announced that they had split up "for the last time" back in May, CANDLEMASS are back together. The band have posted the following message at their official website (www.candlemass.net):
“CANDLEMASS ARE FUCKING BACK!!!!!!!!
The kings of doom are back!!
Just when you thought it was over the corpse lives again and is resurrected healthier, better and gloomier than ever.
Messiah, Leif, Jan, Lars and Mappe. The classic line-up refuse to die!!
We understand this is very confusing for you, since the band disbanded just 6 months ago. But hey – why bother about stupid details when you will have a brand new Candlemass album in your hand before next summer. The boys will enter the famous Stockholm Polar Studios November 26, mix in January and bless us with an album in may sometime. Perfect for Candlemass 20 year anniversary!
According to what Leif said before, the band couldn’t agree on how to proceed after the reunion, so they decided it was best to put the beast of doom to sleep. It is always the best thing when five people want the same thing. And indeed, it looks like they’ve overcome the individual problems for a united effort to do something great.
Leif: - I had a bunch of pretty cool songs, talked to Mappe quite a lot during the summer and we both agreed it would be stupid not to do anything with it. At Mappes wedding in august we all went up on a small stage and performed Samarithan and Solitude with pink guitars plus a really shitty sound. We were all absolutely drunk and we had suits and everything on us, but it was great fun!! I think it was that occasion that made us reconsider.
Shortly after I started to roughly demo some new tracks. I think I like did five tracks in a couple of weeks with a friend helping out. Then we had a meeting and decided to resurrect Candlemass, book the studio, and send out a three song demo to the record companies a.s.a.p. So we recorded ‘Black Dwarf’ and ‘Spellbreaker’ and put ‘Witches’ from the previous demo on it and I think the demo is on the way to the labels right now actually.
Yes, we have two weeks in Polar booked without a deal, ha-ha!! But I’m not worried. I’m sure some smart label guy realize that a new Candlemass album can outsell most of the usual crap that is released today.
We are a unique band with a unique sound and next summer will belong to Candlemass!!”
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| 12 November 2004
Organizers for this year's Keep It True IV Festival have confirmed the following acts:
AGENT STEEL
SATAN
DEADLY BLESSING (Original Line Up/First Time In Europe)
MAJESTY
OVERLORDE (First Time In Europe)
TORCH
THUNDER RIDER (First Time In Europe)
PARAGON
VORTEX.
There is still one headliner left to be announced.
The event will be held on April 2nd, 2005 in Lauda-Koenigshofen, Germany at Tauberfrankenhalle. On the night before (Friday, April 1st) the festival will be holding a warm-up show which has one confirmed act: MARTYR.
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| 12 November 2004
British heavy metal legends SAXON will embark on the "25th Anniversary Of NWOBHM" tour of Germany beginning in early March, 2005.
To celebrate the anniversary of the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal, the band will only play songs they recorded during the 1980s. Before and after the show, editors from Rock Hard magazine will work as DJs and will also present songs from this period.
Confirmed dates for the "25th Anniversary Of NWOBHM Tour 2005" include:
March
4 in Hamburg, GER at Markthalle
5 in Berlin, GER at Columbia Club
6 in Bochum, GER at Zeche
10 in Ludwigsburg, GER at Rockfabrik
11 in Saarbrücken, GER at Garage
12 in Münster / Darmstadt, GER at Live Arena
13 in Augsburg, GER at Rockfabrik
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| 5 November 2004
OVERKILL are almost done recording and mixing their new album. The effort is slated for a February 2005 release.
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| 5 November 2004
VOIVOD's Michel "Away" Langevin provided an update on the follow-up to the band's vastly under-rated "Voivod" album, the first with Jason Newsted in the ranks.
"We've gotten about 25 songs demoed," sez Away. "We've been trading CDRs and ProTooled files back and forth with Jason in California. It's looking to be a darker, weirder, scarier, more punk rock album than the Voivod album. More Voivodian (laughs). Snake's vocals are weirder as well, plus Jason's naturally got a stoner rock vibe to his bass playing that is coming out more on this one. We'll be recording sometime soon in the new year."
In other news, Michel is shopping for a deal for his long-awaited Voivod art book, ideally out through a graphic novel company of some repute. Serious parties who might want to publish such a tome can contact Michel through the band's website (see LINKS).
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| 5 November 2004
SHADOWKEEP have issued the following band lineup news:
"We are pleased to announce Lawrence Patterson as Shadowkeep's new drummer. We feel that having Lawrence join band has added a positive outlook for SK.
"We will defiantly be touring in support of the Beyond The Stratosphere' album, due to be out in 2005".
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| 5 November 2004
SEVEN WITCHES guitarist Jack Frost has posted the following message at the band's official web site:
"The newest SEVEN WITCHES CD ['Year of the Witch'] is out on Sanctuary Records and is receiving great reviews. If you haven't got it yet, what are you waiting for? The reviewers say they think this is our best work yet. More exciting news for the WITCHES, we've just signed with Tammy Taylor of Universal Attractions (yup, a division of Universal Movies), one of the largest booking agencies on the east coast. Currently we're working on a major U.S. tour, scheduled to start in January. All the details aren't worked out yet, but let's just say the tour should be insane!
Even more exciting news for all you WITCHES fans, we're currently working on putting an official issue SEVEN WITCHES DVD together. The DVD will include live performances and a whole bunch of other great shit, look for it sometime in 2005. In other related news, James Rivera, lead singer and all around talented motherfucker, is currently doing a HELSTAR reunion tour scheduled soon for Europe, so keep an eye out for James and the HELSTAR boys as this should be a killer tour for them. Currently I'm working on putting together another solo CD. No release date or title as of yet, but as soon as I figure it out, I'll have it up here on the website to keep all of you informed. Coming soon on the website, a new section called 'Witches and Beyond', a section dedicated to everything that the WITCHES members have done past to present. This section will include rare pictures, little known facts, videos and audio. It should be up sometime in the near future."
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| 5 November 2004
DREAM THEATER will enter the studio next month to start the recordings of their new album. A spring release is expected.
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| 5 November 2004
The "Side Project" section of SUN CAGED’s official website (see LINKS) has been updated with the following news on guitarist MARCEL COENEN’s upcoming solo album:
“Marcel is working on a new solo album. A few songs have been written already. The album will be quite different from Guitartalk since it will feature songs with vocals. The mix will be 50/50. Marcel found some great guest singers. The album will also be recorded with real drums, three guest drummers will be featured on the album. More news soon.
In other news, previous Sun Caged vocalist Andre Vuurboom is currently busy with his new project/band called SPHERE OF SOULS, who's upcoming album is planned for release in 2005. It features Joost van den Broek on Keyboards (ex-Sun Caged, AFTER FOREVER), Anand Mahangoe on guitars, Kees Harrison (ex-AUTUMN EQUINOX) on bass and Patrick Gerritzen (ex-IMPERIUM) on drums.
This will be a concept album with a wide range of influences, from Fates Warning to Machine Head to Psychotic Waltz and more. Production and mixing will be done by Joost van den Broek. Additional musicians to be announced.
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| 5 November 2004
MASTERPLAN, the act featuring guitarist Roland Grapow (ex-HELLOWEEN), vocalist Jorn Lande (ex-YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, ARK) and drummer Uli Kusch (ex-Helloween), will release a new album, Aeronautics, on January 24th.
Producer Andy Sneap will reprise his role as knob-twiddler for the album. It will be mixed at the famed Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Finland by Mikko Karmila and mastered by Mika Jussila.
Masterplan will also be releasing a new EP, Back For My Life, through AFM Records on November 29th. The set will include four songs (two non-album tracks, two album tracks), a non-album video clip, multimedia section, plus an eight page colour booklet.
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| 31 October 2004
Reunited North Carolina-based progressive metallers CONFESSOR have made available for sale their recently recorded three-song demo, entitled "Blueprint Soul". The demo, which was recorded at Osceola studios in Raleigh with producer Dick Hodgin, contains the tracks "Blueprint Soul", "Sour Times" and "Hibernation". Audio samples and ordering information can be found at the group's official web site (see LINKS).
CONFESSOR, who are currently being represented by CORROSION OF CONFORMITY's former management company, split up in the early '90s after releasing one full-length album (1991's "Condemned") and EP (1992's "Confessor"), with the with the rhythm section going on to form FLY MACHINE. CONFESSOR reformed in 2002 following the death of guitarist Ivan Colon, who passed away due to cardiac complications
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| 31 October 2004
Rick Renstrom, guitarist for LEASH LAW and former IMPELLITTERI singer ROB ROCK, has announced that his solo debut "Until The Bitter End" is now available in the United States through Thrash Corner Records, distributed by The End.
The Stateside version of the album features new cover art and two bonus videos of 'Opus Lix' and 'Towers Of Babylon. The clips were filmed during Renstrom's November 2002 performance at The Power Of Metal festival in Orlando, Florida, and features Leash Law members Richard Christy (drums), Stephen Elder (bass) and Wade Black (vocals).
In other news, Renstrom is hard at work writing for the second LEASH LAW record and writing solos for Rob Rock's third album, as well as promoting "Until The Bitter End".
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| 31 October 2004
Dan Beehler, former singer/drummer of '80s Canadian metal legends EXCITER, will be one of the guest interviewers on ANNIHILATOR's "Ten Years in Hell" DVD, to be released around April 2005.
ANNIHILATOR mainman Jeff Waters recently remastered five of EXCITER's early releases and orchestrated a worldwide deal with Megaforce Records for much of their catalogue (most due to be released early 2005). Commented Waters: "It was an honor to be able to help and work on some of the early pioneers of speed metal's classic works, but even more-so to have a legend like Dan appear on the DVD."
ANNIHILATOR's latest CD, "All For You", has been available in Europe since May through AFM Records. The CD, which was produced, mixed and engineered by Waters at Watersound Studios in Canada, marks the recording debut with the group of new singer Dave Padden, who replaced previous vocalist Joe Comeau (ex-OVERKILL, LIEGE LORD) in June 2003.
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| 31 October 2004
Polish death metal veterans VADER have posted the following message on their official web site:
"The second DVD of VADER, entitled 'Night Of The Apocalypse', has been released a few days ago. It's a REAL DVD consisted of a few professionaly shot gigs. There's no place for any excesses and amateur takes- only the highest possible sound and image quality! The release has been eclipsed by 'The Beast', nevertheless it's worth your attention, definitely! The DVD contains 3 gigs of VADER and backstage stuff (interviews with members of the band). The leading part of the release is a gig from TV studio Krzemionki, Cracov from 2002 (with Simon on bass), dynamic and professional mix of 9 cameras, superb lights and sound! The second gig was filmed & recorded during Metalmania Festival 2003 (great mystical show, pure carnage for your ears and eyes!), the third one it's an opening show for SLIPKNOT and METALLICA, where can be seen and heard a real power of the band. It's just a killer release for VADER fans!"
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| 31 October 2004
BALLISTIC mainman Tom Gattis (ex-DEUCE, TENSION, WARDOG) has posted the following message on the band's official web site:
"Well, I had a mini-stroke about 3 weeks ago (T.I.A.); Turns out its tied to a hole between the left and right atria of the heart (medical term 'Patent Foraman Ovale') and it shunts unprocessed blood away from the lungs and directly to the brain via the Carotid Artery, hence allowing clots to proceed unimpeded to the brain (it has also been tied to major migraine headaches). Well, I have had an operation to close the hole and am doing well so far. I should be ready to start playing again soon. By the way, this is a fairly recent development (the relation of a PFO to strokes), and 25% of the general population is walking around with this defect and doesn't know it (this absolutely DOES NOT mean 25% will suffer a stroke!!). So if you have stroke symptoms, this is something you may want to bring up to your healthcare provider. Thanks for all the best wishes from everyone!"
BALLISTIC, who recently announced the addition of singer Tony Taylor (TWISTED TOWER DIRE, ISEN TORR, OCTOBER 31) to the group's ranks, are working on the material for their second album, tentatively due next year.
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| 31 October 2004
HADES have booked time at Crystal Studios to record one new song which will be a bonus track on the Mausoleum Records re-release of the group's first three CDs.
"[Vocalist] Alan Tecchio is writing the lyrics to a song (bassist) Jimmy Schulman and I just put together," stated guitarist Dan Lorenzo. "It combines three riffs I wrote after we recorded 'DamNation' and two of Jimmy's riffs from after we finished 'If At First You Don't Succeed'. Mausoleum have told me they plan on releasing the double CD the end of February". Visit their website (see LINKS) for more info on that.
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| 31 October 2004
Reunited German metal legends ACCEPT have been confirmed as one of the two headliners of the 2005 edition of the Rock Hard Festival , set to take place May 13-15 at Amphitheater in Gelsenkirchen. Other groups scheduled to appear at the festival include OVERKILL, THE HAUNTED, CHILDREN OF BODOM, UNLEASHED, AMON AMARTH, MASTERPLAN, ENSIFERUM and HEAVEN SHALL BURN .
The management of U.D.O., the German band led by former ACCEPT frontman Udo Dirkschneider, has issued a statement refuting reports that the previously announced ACCEPT reunion may lead to U.D.O.'s break-up.
According to the management, the upcoming ACCEPT reunion is not a proper "reunion" per se, but is rather an opportunity for some of the group's original members to come together and perform a few live shows to celebrate the group's 25-year anniversary. "They [ACCEPT] will not come out with any CD or DVD," the statetement reads. "U.D.O. is alive. They're going to start recording the new album in December. The album will come out in October 2005. The new tour'll start in February 2006."
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| 31 October 2004
New York Hardcore legends AGNOSTIC FRONT will be shooting their first DVD ever in NYC at the legendary CBGB's club on November 7th.
The band will be performing two shows with two different sets, starting at 3pm and 5pm for only $5 per show. There will be no openers being it is a live recording. All fans are asked to come on down and be part of NYHC history.
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| 31 October 2004
SOUL SIRKUS, the new "supergroup" formed by singer Jeff Scott Soto (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, TALISMAN, AXEL RUDI PELL, TAKARA, HUMAN CLAY), guitarist Neal Schon and drummer Deen Castronovo (both of JOURNEY) and bassist Marco Mendoza (THIN LIZZY, WHITESNAKE, TED NUGENT), will release their debut album on December 7.
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| 31 October 2004
DOWN THE DRAIN, the new Buffalo, NY-based band fronted by former MALEVOLENT CREATION singer Brett Hoffmann, will be making their live debut on November 19 at the Sapphire Room in Buffalo, NY. The concert will mark Hoffmann's first live appearance in almost three years.
"Hoffmann went back to his hometown to find himself (mind, body and soul) and get back [to] doing what he does best: make sick-ass music,"
An official web site containing music samples will be launched very soon. In the meantime, you can join the Down The Drain mailing list to get update on the band's activities and to find out when the site and the new music have been completed. Write to: DOWNtheDRAINmusic@hotmail.comfor all the details.
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| 31 October 2004
SUN CAGED’s official website (see LINKS) has been updated with the following band news:
“Sun Caged is currently busy writing songs for the second album. The songs sound great so far and show some different aspects from the band.
The search for a good singer goes on and we have some good options! Things are looking positive currently and we hope to announce the news pretty soon.
The band will first work on a new album and when that album has been released the band will start playing live again, so have patience! We want to thank the fans for their loyalty regarding the band and the changes and we hope you will all like the new material.”
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| 31 October 2004
Reunited Houston metallers HELSTAR featuring legendary vocalist James Rivera have announced the following live dates:
November
6 - Keep It True Festival in Koenigshofen, Germany
7 - La Sfinge in Brescia, Italy
8 - Estragon in Bologna, Italy
9 - New Breed in Fornacette -Pisa, Italy
12 - Rock Bottom Club in Thessaloniki, Greece
13 - Kingston Club in Cyprus-Lemessos, Greece
14 - AN Club in Athens, Greece
19 - The Rock in Copenhagen, Denmark
21 - De Effenaar in Eindhoven, Netherlands
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| 31 October 2004
INVOCATOR will enter guitarist Jacob Hansen’s own Hansen Studios for a few days in November to record a few new tracks.
Says the band, “New songs have been written and just to see what they really sound like once recorded, we have decided to spend a couple of days in the studio. We're all very excited to see how they turn out! Further details will be posted later.”
In related news, Hansen has joined forces with Danish/Swedish prog metallers BEYOND TWILIGHT (see LINKS). Here's the statement from the band itself:
“Yes it's true. Beyond Twilight are proud to announce that Invocator guitarist Jacob Hansen has joined forces with the band. Jacob is a perfect fit for the band, and the recordings has gone just perfect. Jacob has brought his great skills and energy to the recordings. Beyond Twilight are extraordinarily happy with the new reinforcement.”
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| 22 October 2004
NOVACT (formerly known as MORGANA-X) announced the signing of a contract with the American record label Sensory owned by Ken Golden.
The album "Tales From The Soul"' will receive a worldwide release.
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| 22 October 2004
ANGEL DUST are back together again.
Line up is: Dirk Thurisch ( vocals), Steven Banx (keyboard), Dirk (Assy) Assmuth (Drums). Bass player (T.B.A.)
They wrote 3 songs so far and have lots of ideas. "Looks like we'll release a very special bonus CD incl unreleased stuff plus old ( very old ) material plus 2-3 new tracks. A new CD will be out in 2005!!! Looking forward, rehearsals are great, we have lots of fun and enjoy ourselves. We got a lot of offers to play and we'll be checking out stuff/offers these days.
Best Regards, Bernd."
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| 22 October 2004
Progressive epic thrash metallers BIOMECHANICAL have inked a four-album deal with Elitist/Earache Records. Biomechanical are presently working on their sophomore album entitled 'The Empires of The World' at singer Jon K's own studio. Work is likely to be completed at the end of 2004 for an early 2005 release.
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| 22 October 2004
Former STEEL PROPHET singer Rick Mythiasin is working on a new project under the name MYTHIASIN. According to the vocalist, "it's the heaviest, most thrashy thing I've done up to this date." Songs are currently being hammered out in the studio.
Mythiasin's former bandmates are undergoing more growing pains, having parted ways with guitarist Pete Skermetta, drummer Kevin Cafferty and original bassist Vince Dennis. Joining original guitarist Steve Kachinsky and vocalist Nadir D'Priest are Tim Thomas (NEW EDEN guitarist), Glenn Cannon (HELLION bassist) and Gene McEwen (STEIGER drummer).
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| 22 October 2004
Line up changes for REPULSION. Here's the official word:
“Due to other commitments, (guitarist) Aaron Freeman has left Repulsion. Unfortunately this is a permanent decision. He will be sorely missed. Taking over guitar duties will be Exhumed's Matt Harvey. We are very excited to have him aboard, thanks Matt!!! Also, (drummer) Dave Grave is unable to attend the upcoming France and Spain gigs. His temporary replacement will be Col Jones (Cretin, Exhumed). There isn't a man alive more qualified to fill the grand daddy of blast beat's slippers more than Mr. Col Jones. Thanks for helping us out, Col.”
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| 22 October 2004
JUDAS PRIEST have once again postponed the release date of their new studio album — this time to February 1, 2005 (January 31, 2005 internationally) from the previously announced January 4, 2005.
The release date was moved at the request of the band's record label, Sony/Epic Records in order "to make sure that we can get everything in place for the release of the new record i.e. marketing plans, interviews, video etc., etc." according to a posting on the group's web site (see LINKS).
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| 22 October 2004
SIX FEET UNDER’s official website (www.sfu420.com) has posted dates for the No Mercy Festivals 2005.
Acts currently confirmed for the trek include SIX FEET UNDER, NILE, DARK FUNERAL, DISBELIEF, DYING FETUS and CATARACT.
Confirmed dates for the tour include:
March
13 at La Locomotive in Paris, France
14 at Zeche Carl in Essen, Germany
15 at Markthalle in Hamburg, Germany
16 at Columbia Club in Berlin, Germany
17 at Abaton Club in Prague, Czech Republic
18 at Alte Spinnerei in Glauchau, Germany
19 at Planet Music in Wien, Austria
20 at Hafen in Innsbruck, Austria
21 at Trasilvania in Milano, Italy
22 at Z7 in Pratteln, Switzerland
23 at Rock Fabrik in Ludwigsburg, Germany
24 at La Laiterie in Strasbourg, France
25 at C. Royal in Frankfurt, Germany
26 at Hof Ter Loo in Antwerpen, Belgium
27 at 013 in Tilburg, Netherlands
More acts and dates will be announced soon. Stay tuned.
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| 22 October 2004
MCBRAIN DAMAGE, featuring IRON MAIDEN drummer Nicko McBrain, bassist Dave “The Beast” Spitz (ex-BLACK SABBATH/WHITE LION), vocalist Jonathan Murphy, guitarist Rick Baum (DEEPSET) and guitarist Chris Proano (FAILSAFE) have posted the following update at their official website:
"Nicko is off to London for a week to do some studio work. He'll be home for a bit, then off for a drum clinic tour. Dave "The Beast" Spitz came out of his cave to meet up with Rick and Jonathan to hang with Ronnie James Dio at his show here in Florida. They also have plans this week to jam with Patrik Johansson (drummer for YNGWIE MALMSTEEN) at a local rehearsal room. Don't worry, it's just to have fun while Nicko is running around the world. We're hard at work getting McBrain Damage tour dates together for the new year."
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| 22 October 2004
Swedish black metalers MARDUK will be hitting the road early next year in Europe for a headlining tour in support of their new album, "Plague Angel", due out in Europe on November 22nd through Blooddawn/Regain.
Confirmed dates are as follows:
February
12 - Stockholm, Sweden at Klubben
17 - Linkoping, Sweden at Skylten
18 - Gothenburg, Sweden at Musikhus
21 - London, England at Underworld
23 - Manchester, England at Satan Hallow
24 - Dublin, Ireland at Whelans
27 - Saint Nazaire, France at VIP
March
2 - Toulouse, France at Salle Des Fetes
3 - Marseille, France at C. Mirabeau
11 - Groningen, Netherlands at Vera
12 - Weert, Netherlands at Bosuil
13 - Hamburg, Germany at Markthalle
14 - Bischofswerda, Germany at East Club
15 - Uherske Hradiste, Czech Republic at Mir Club
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| 22 October 2004
Nick Menza has been replaced in the lineup for the upcoming MEGADETH tour. In his place will be Shawn Drover (EIDOLON). "We look forward to the upcoming tour with Sean and wish Nick best of luck in his next endeavor." Shawn now joins his brother Glen (Eidolon/DIMENSION INFINITE/ex-KING DIAMOND), who was announced as Megadeth's new guitarist in September. The current Megadeth lineup is rounded off by bassist James MacDonough (ex-ICED EARTH).
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| 15 October 2004
Long running New Jersey metalheads ATTACKER have issued the latest news flash: on October 17th, the band will be entering the recording studio to begin work on their next album, tentatively titled, "The Unknown". The album will contain eight new tracks. The project will emanate from world renowned Trax East Recording Studios in New Jersey. Artwork for the new Attacker album will be illustrated by Jowita Kaminska. Ms. Kaminska is an established artist from Poland and has designed album covers for DECEASED, EXODUS and many others. No release date has been set as of this writing.
Also on the horizon is the much anticipated upcoming DVD titled "Death By Decibels". Footage has been shot for this home video starting from their now historic return performance in Hoboken's Maxwell's right on through Keep It True, Classic Metal Fest, and Milwaukee Metal Fest. Also, behind the scenes footage including the making of the Soul Taker album. The band have come across some live footage of the late John Leone (Second Coming vocalist) that will be included. As a point of interest, Attacker will be headlining the Fifth Annual Heavy Metal Maniacs in Hoorn, Holland on Saturday October 30th 2004. This live performance will also be shot for their upcoming DVD home video. A release date will soon be announced.
Finally, Attacker have been confirmed for both Classic Metal Fest 5 on May 13th and 14th 2005 in Chicago, IL USA and Headbanger's Open Air on July 8th and 9th 2005 in Botanik, Germany showtimes and confirmed dates will be available soon.
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| 15 October 2004
PROJECT: FAILING FLESH, featuring E-FORCE/ex-VOIVOD frontman Eric Forrest, have revealed the track list for their second album, entitled "The Conjoined". It is as follows: 'Motionless', 'Through The Broken Lens', 'Regenerate', 'The Conjoined', 'Unsight Unseen', 'Eve Of Demise', 'Final Act Of Treachery', 'Surface Noise', 'Second Impact Syndrome', 'Synesthesia', and 'Hand That You've Been Dealt'.
The band has also recorded a cover song with the intent of offering it as a free internet track. It will probably not appear on the album. "The Conjoined" is unlikely to surface until well into 2005, however, as their debut album "A Beautiful Sickness" (see REVIEWS) was only released in September.
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| 15 October 2004
The new OCCULT album "Malevolent Rapture" is scheduled for an early 2005 release.
The band is currently working on the effort in the Stage One Studio.
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| 15 October 2004
METAL CHURCH guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof revealed that he has launched a brand new prog-rock project.
"There is a whole bunch of material that I have written that is like old-school progressive rock," Kurdt explained. "At some point I'm going to put the finishing touches on that as another side project. It was too left-field for VANDERHOOF, so I am going to call this project PRESTO BALLET. It is just an experimentation on my part."
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| 15 October 2004
Former FEAR FACTORY guitarist Dino Cazares and ex-DIMMU BORGIR/CRADLE OF FILTH drummer Nick Barker will be teaming up in an as-yet-unnamed new project. The duo, who have been collaborating for the past few months in Dino's long-running extreme metal band BRUJERIA, have not released any details of the new project except to say that it will be "heavier and faster" than FEAR FACTORY. More information as it becomes available.
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| 15 October 2004
HOLY MOSES, the long-running German thrash outfit fronted by Sabina Classen, have signed a new record deal with Armageddon Music. A new studio album is tentatively scheduled for release next spring/summer.
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| 15 October 2004
SUICIDAL TENDENCIES are currently working on a new project called "Return to Venice", according to a posting on the group's web site. No further information is currently available.
SUICIDAL TENDENCIES' last full-length album, "Free Your Soul . . . And Save My Mind", was released in 2000.
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| 15 October 2004
Magick Records, a division of Cleopatra Records, are issuing the CD version of FLOTSAM AND JETSAM's recent DVD, "Live In Phoenix", in early 2005. The show was recorded live at the Bash On Ash in the band's hometown of Phoenix, AZ on July 18th, 2003.
The tentative tracklisting is as follows:
'No Place For Disgrace', 'Swatting At Flies', 'Hard On You', 'Chemical Noose', 'Me', 'Wading Through The Darkness', 'The Master Sleeps', 'Nothing To Say', 'Trash', 'Hammerhead', 'Secret Square', 'Escape From Within' and 'Dig Me Up To Bury Me'.
Flotsam drummer Craig Nielsen says that their next studio album is almost completely written and will be recorded before the end of the year. Expect a release through Crash Music in early 2005 as well.
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| 15 October 2004
SAXON have updated their tour itinerary, in support of their recently released "Lionheart" album, to reflect the following dates.
Guests on the trek will include: DREAM EVIL (through October 21st), CHINCHILLA (October 23rd - November 14th).
Upcoming dates include:
October
15 at Louzhniki Arena in Moscow, Russia
17 at Pumpehuset in Copenhagen, Denmark
18 at Rockefeller in Oslo, Norway
19 at Tradgarn in Gothenburg, Sweden
20 at Cluben in Stockholm, Sweden
21 at KB in Malmo, Sweden
23 at Stadthalle in Lichtenfelsm, Germany
24 at Novesta in Zlin, Czech Republic
25 at Stodola in Warszawa, Poland
27 at Orpheum in Graz, Austria
28 at Tvornika in Zagreb, Hungary
30 at Mylos Apothiki in Thessaloniki, Greece
31 at Gagarin 205 in Athens, Greece
November
4 at Live Music Club in Milano, Italy
6 at Razzmatazz 2 in Barcelona, Spain
7 at Caracol in Madrid, Spain
8 at Hard Club in Porto, Portugal
10 at Rockstore in Montepellier, France
11 at Tenax in Florence, Italy
12 at Fillmore in Piacenza, Italy
13 at Z7 in Pratteln, Switzerland
14 at Elysee Montmartre in Paris, France
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| 15 October 2004
Italian melodic rock label Frontiers Records have signed BRAZEN ABBOT, featuring multi-talent Nikolo Kotzev, to an international deal. Kotzev will make his debut on the label with a live CD/DVD package called A Decade Of Brazen Abbot. The material was recorded over the course of the band's first ever tour through Kotzev's homeland of Bulgaria.
The line-up featured on the album and the DVD includes Kotzev (guitars), Joe Lynn Turner (ex-RAINBOW/vocals), Wayne Banks (bass), Lars Pollack (keyboards) and Thomas Broman (drums). The DVD is almost two hours long and features footage the various concerts held, TV appearances as well as some older pictures and interviews with Kotzev and all the singers that were part of Brazen Abbot since the band's beginnings, including Jorn Lande (MASTERPLAN), Glenn Hughes, Goran Edman (ex-Yngwie Malmsteen) and Turner.
The track lists are as follows:
CD: 'Intro', 'Mr. Earthman', 'One Life To Live', 'Slip Away', 'Guilty As Sin Part 1', 'Guilty As Sin Part 2#, 'Supernatural', keyboard solo, 'Can't Let You Go', 'I'll Be Free', 'I Surrender', drum solo 'Road To Hell', and 'Love Is On Our Side' (studio acoustic bonus track).
DVD: 'Mr. Earthman', 'Slip Away', 'Supernatural', 'Feeling Like A Rolling Stone', Jam Session (Nik, Joe, Jeff Paris and Jorgen Carlsson), 'Stone Cold', 'Guilty As Sin', 'I Surrender', 'Can't Let You Go', 'I'll Be Free', 'One Life To Live' and 'Road To Hell'. (NTSC region free format).
The release of both formats coincides with Brazen Abbot's 10 year anniversary, hitting the streets worldwide on November 22nd.
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| 15 October 2004
New Jersey thrash legends OVERKILL have signed a two-album deal with Regain Records which excludes North America. Overkill is currently in the studio working on the new album which is scheduled for a late February 2005 release. The band will follow up the release with extensive worldwide touring in North America, Europe and Japan.
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| 8 October 2004
ANVIL may be doing a tour of Eastern Canada with I HATE SALLY and BOBNOXIOUS (featuring RAZOR's Bob Reid).
ANVIL are also in talks for a European tour with AGENT STEEL, HIRAX and INFERNAL MAJESTY, to take place in January, 2005.
In other Anvil news, as well as releasing the band's new CD, Back To Basics, Screaming Ferret Wreckords, LLC will also be re-releasing much of Anvil's back catalogue in the US. They will be remastered and will include bonus tracks. The following are the CDs to be re-released: "Strength Of Steel", "Pound For Pound", "Past And Present: Live In Concert", "Worth The Weight", "Plugged In Permanent", "Absolutely No Alternative", "Speed Of Sound", "Anthology Of Anvil", "Plenty Of Power" and "Still Going Strong".
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| 8 October 2004
ARABESQUE lead guitarist Joop Wolters returns with his second solo release on Lion Music.
"Speed, Traffic & Guitar Accidents" is home to 17 tracks that see Joop delve deep into his emotions to produce this stylistically varied release. Music fans that appreciate strong focused guitar work will find "Speed, Traffic & Guitar Accidents" a true gem.
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| 8 October 2004
TYGERS OF PAN TANG have parted ways with singer Richie Wicks.
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| 8 October 2004
SLAYER's management has confirmed the tracklisting for the band's new DVD, "Still Reigning", set for release in late October through American Recordings/UME.
The DVD, which features the band playing their Reign In Blood album live, features the following tracklisting: 'Angel Of Death', 'Piece By Piece', 'Necrophobic', 'Alter Of Sacrifice', 'Jesus Saves', 'Criminally Insane', 'Reborn', 'Epidemic', 'Postmortem' and 'Raining Blood'.
The DVD also features the following bonus tracks, as well as backstage footage and interviews with the band members: 'War Ensemble', 'Hallowed Point', 'Necrophiliac', 'Mandatory Suicide','Spill The Blood' and 'South Of Heaven'.
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| 8 October 2004
IMMOLATION have titled their new album "Harnessing Ruin". The album is scheduled for a late January 2005 release through Listenable (Olympic Recordings in North America).
The album will feature the following tracklisting: ‘Swarm Of Terror’, ‘Our Savior Sleeps’, ‘Challenge The Storm’, ‘Harnessing Ruin’, ‘Dead To Me’, ‘Son Of Iniquity’, ‘My Own Enemy’, ‘Crown The Liar’ and ‘At Mourning's Twilight’.
The album was recorded at Millbrook Sound Studios with Paul Orofino producing. A new video track for ‘Dead To Me’ is in the works, and the official website will also be relaunched soon.
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| 8 October 2004
The Arnhem Metal Meeting (www.arnhemmetalmeeting.nl) is scheduled to take place on December 4th at Musis Sacrum in Arnhem, Netherlands.
Acts confirmed for the festival include:
SAMAEL
ENTOMBED
UNLEASHED
SUFFOCATION
1349
IMPALED NAZARENE
DESASTER
GOD DETHRONED
PRIMORDIAL
GOREROTTED
INHUME
HEIDEVOLK
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| 8 October 2004
BLITZKRIEG are currently hard at work writing and arranging tracks for the next Blitzkrieg studio release.
The follow up to 2002`s "Absolute Power" is at present scheduled to be recorded in February 2005. A mid-spring 2005 release is expected.
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| 8 October 2004
NOCTURNAL RITES drummer Owe Lingvall was involved in accident at his summer house a few days ago that almost caused him to lose an eye. He is now in hospital and will undergo surgery. You can add your offer in their guestbook (see LINKS).
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| 8 October 2004
DYING FETUS dismissed vocalist Vince Matthews from the band. This action was taken due to a number of musical, professional, and personal reasons that they feel do not need elaboration at this time.
However, Vince remains a long-time friend of several Dying Fetus members and they wish him the best of luck in the future. This change will not affect any of their present tour plans. They intend to continue with our current four-piece lineup, and they will handle the vocals accordingly.
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| 8 October 2004
LOUDNESS guitarist Akira Takasaki released his latest solo album, entitled "Splash Mountain", through Tricycle Records in Japan on September 22nd.
The track list is as follows: 'I Know You', 'Out Of Control', 'Back In Black' (AC/DC cover), 'Sweet Emotion' (AEROSMITH cover), 'Air', 'N-Trance', 'Vibrato', 'Hate Myself', 'Zongon Manden', 'We're All Alone' (BOZ SCAGGS), 'Queen Of Rock', 'Riding In The Sun' and 'Hale Hale Jangle'. Takasaki handles all guitars, drums and vocals.
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| 1 October 2004
US prog-metallers ZERO HOUR have issued the following press release regarding parting ways with vocalist Erik Rosvold:
"We haven't physically seen or talked to Erik since we got back from Europe in April of 2003. The only
communication we've had with Erik for the last year and five months was by email (and he rarely responded back to us). Jasun (Tipton - guitar), Mike (Guy drums) and I felt we'd lost control of Zero Hour and even thought about discontinuing ZH. We loved what Erik's vocals brought to the band and knew finding a replacement would not be easy.
However, we are pleased to annouce that Fred Marshall is the new vocalist in Zero Hour! Jasun and I have been fans of Fred's vocals ever since we heard his prior band's demo, Reigning Thoughts by DESTINY'S VOID. I asked Doug Ott of ENCHANT if he had Fred's number and he put me in contact with Mark who played drums in a couple of bands with Fred (including Destiny's Void). I called Fred and sent him Towers Of Avarice (2001) and now we are working together on the next disc. Fred will start tracking in November and all vocals will be tracked in December.
Zero Hour will have our next cd released in early 2005! We would like to take this oppurtunity to thank the fans for there patience."
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| 1 October 2004
SHATTER MESSIAH is a new band with Curran Murphy (ANNIHILATOR) and Greg Wagner (BREAKER, ex-ARCHETYPE). They are recording their first album at the moment.
Greg Wagner is also working on his 3th BUZZKILLER album. For reviews of the first 2 BUZZKILLER albums you have to take a look at the REVIEW part of this webzine..........More news as i get updated.
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| 1 October 2004
Long-running Dutch death metallers PENTACLE have finished recording their new album, "Under the Black Cross", tentatively due in early 2005 through Iron Pegasus Records. "The result is better than we had expected it to be," the band write on their web site. "In about two weeks we're going to mix the album, but this rough mix sounds already very promising. The songs are full of aggression and power. The essence of the material truly comes to life now. No shitty tapes anymore...this is the real thing!"
Eight tracks are going to be featured on the CD, while two others are scheduled to appear on a follow-up seven-inch single, which is going to be released several months after the album.
Among the cuts under consideration to appear on the album are the following:
01. Into the Fiery Jaws
02. Raise the White Ensign!
03. March of the Cambletown (instrumental)
04. A Devil's Shooting Gallery
05. The Utmost Desolation
06. (Storming through) a Hail of Steel
07. The Last Fight (ML 306's Stand)
08. Awaiting the Blast of Death
09. Blast them from the Sky
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| 1 October 2004
Santa Cruz, California-based death metallers DECREPIT BIRTH have announced the addition of drummer KC Howard (ODIUS MORTEM) to the group's ranks. "Now that we are a complete force, we are gearing the band for shows and touring in the months ahead,' the group write on their web site.
DECREPIT BIRTH's full-length debut, "...And Time Begins" (see REVIEWS), was released last year through Unique Leader Records. The CD marked the last recoreded appearance with the group of bassist Derek Boyer, who has since left DECREPIT BIRTH to join the reunited death metal legends SUFFOCATION.
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| 1 October 2004
Former DEEP PURPLE members Glenn Hughes and Joe Lynn Turner are collaborating on a music project with no less than the deputy mayor of Moscow, Mikhail Men, who, it turns out, dabbles in music.
Men said he got the idea to record together with Hughes and Turner while listening to some hard-rock songs he wrote when he was young. "As a result, together with producer Alexander Berezhny we risked offering Glenn Hughes and Joe Lynn Turner to perform the music," Men was quoted as saying by Interfax.
The rock legends agreed, and together with the deputy mayor have set to work on nine new songs — Men wrote the music and Hughes and Turner wrote the lyrics to what they said had a distinct Russian motif.
Speaking at the press conference, Hughes said he enjoyed working with this new kind of music and expected to surprise his fans. The album — with a working title of "Made in Moscow" — is set for release in December.
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| 1 October 2004
Houston's DISTANT THUNDER (see LINKS) are currently finalizing plans for their upcoming European tour. Dates will be announced as they are confirmed. The band has scheduled two shows in the Texas area before leaving for Germany.
Meanwhile, vocalist James Rivera is touring with SEVEN WITCHES, sharing the bill with Metal greats UFO and KINGS X.
Distant Thunder guitarist Gregg Gill and drummer Rick Ward are keeping busy at Spyder Studio recording Now And Then Records artists MAGISTRAL and preparing to record Laser's Edge Records artists STRIDE.
Distant Thunder bassist Mike Lepond is headed back to the studio to record the next SYMPHONY X CD release. Original HELSTAR bassist, Jerry Abarca will fill in on any shows that conflict with Mike's recording schedule.
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| 1 October 2004
KREATOR have announced their first live dates for 2005.
The band will embark on the "Enemy Of God" Tour 2005, beginning in Austria in February. Support on the trek will come from Sweden’s DARK TRANQUILLITY, plus two opening acts.
Confirmed dates for the tour currently include:
February
2 in Salzburg, Austria at Rockhouse
3 in Zagreb, Hungary at Tvornica
4 in Budapest, Hungary at Petöfi Hall
5 in Wien, Austria at Planet Music
6 in Graz, Austria at Orpheum
7 in Llubljana, Slovakia at VtK
8 in Treviso, Italy at New Age
9 in Mailand, Italy at Rolling Stone
10 in Montpellier, France at Rockstore
11 in Bergara, Spain at Jam
12 in Madrid, Spain at Arena
13 in Barcelona, Spain at Razzmatazz 1
14 in Lyon, France at Transbordeur
15 in Paris, France at Elysee Montmatre
16 in London, England at Electric Ballroom
17 in Antwerpen, Belgium at Hof ter Lo
18 in Tilburg, Netherlands at O13
19 in Osnabrück, Germany at Dütehalle/Georgsmarinenhütte
20 in Oberhausen, Germany at T-Club Turbinenhalle
21 in Langen, Germany at Stadthalle
23 in Stuttgart, Germany at Longhorn
24 in Nürnberg, Germany at Hirsch
25 in Pratteln, Switzerland at Z7
26 in Kaufbeuren, Germany at Zeppelinhalle
27 in Glauchau, Germany at Alte Spinnerei
28 in Berlin, Germany at Columbiaclub
March
1 in Hannover, Germany at Faust
in Hamburg, Germany at Markthalle
3 in Göteborg, Sweden at Musikens Hus
4 in Oslo, Norway at Betong
5 in Stockholm, Sweden at Klubben
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| 1 October 2004
The organizers of the Bang Your Head Festival have announced that former SKID ROW frontman Sebastian Bach will be performing at the 10th Anniversary of the BYH in Balingen, Germany next year. The theme of BYH 2005 is The Best Of Ten Years, and Bach was an unexpected hit this year when he stepped in at the last minute to replace WHITE LION, thus he has been invited back.
The festival will take place on the 24th and 25th of June. Other acts due to appear include TWISTED SISTER, MOTÖRHEAD, DIO, SAXON, DORO, GAMMA RAY, NEVERMORE, KROKUS, AXEL RUDI PELL, DESTRUCTION, AMON AMARTH, TANKARD, JAG PANZER, NASTY SAVAGE, VICIOUS RUMORS and DEMON.
Five more acts and one very special guest are expected to be announced soon.
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| 1 October 2004
CIRCLE II CIRCLE, featuring former SAVATAGE singer Zak Stevens, have been forced to push back the release of their new album due to the series of hurricanes that have been battering Florida. The band has been recording in Brooksville at Cabin Fever Studio and were forced to evacuate. The single/EP planned for the end of the year has been bumped to January 2005, with the release of the full length album now planned for February 2005.
Zak Stevens recently lost part of a finger in a lawnmower accident, forcing him to miss this year’s Prog Power Festival in Atlanta, Georgia. A statement has yet to be made with regards to his condition, but we’re assuming no news is good news.
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| 1 October 2004
Swedish black metallers MARDUK have revealed through their official website (see LINKS) the title and tracklisting for their new album, due out through Regain Records in mid-November.
Entitled "Plague Angel", the album features the following tracklisting: ‘The Hangman Of Prague’, ‘Throne Of Rats’, ‘Seven Angels, Seven Trumpets’, ‘Life`s Emblem’, ‘Steel Inferno’, ‘Perish In Flames’, ‘Holy Blood, Holy Grail’, ‘Warschau’, ‘Deathmarch’, ‘Everything Bleeds’ and ‘Blutrache’.
Upcoming Marduk tour dates in support of Plague Angel are as follows:
December
5 at La Locomotive in Paris, France
6 at Zeche Carl in Essen, Germany
7 at Hyde Park in Osnabruck, Germany
8 at Halford in Berlin, Germany
9 at Lucerna Music in Prague, Czech Republic
10 at Hellraiser in Engelsdorf, Germany
11 at Planet Music in Wien, Austria
12 at Haffen in Innsbruck, Austria
13 at Transilvania in Milan, Italy
14 at Z7 in Pratteln, Switzerland
15 at Rockfabrik in Ludwigsburg, Germany
16 at Live Arena in Munster (Breitefeld), Germany
17 at La Laiterie in Strasbourg, France
18 at Hof Ter Loo in Antwerpen, Belgium
19 at 013 in Tilburg, Netherlands
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| 1 October 2004
Roadrunner Records have set an October 5th release date for the reissue of FEAR FACTORY's classic debut, "Soul Of A New Machine" complete with the "Fear Is The Mindkiller" EP.
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| 1 October 2004
Earmark Records have made two classic MOTORHEAD albums available on 180 gram picture disc vinyl LP.
The titles available are "Rock ‘N’ Roll" (1987) and "Orgasmatron" (1986).
The albums feature the following track listings:
Orgasmatron - ‘Orgasmatron’, ‘Deaf Forever’, ‘Ain't My Crime’, ‘Claw’, ‘Built For Speed’, ‘Nothing Up My Sleeve’, ‘Mean Machine’ and ‘Riding With The Driver’.
Rock ‘N’ Roll - ‘Rock n' Roll’, ‘Eat The Rich’, ‘Blackheart’, ‘Stone Deaf In The U.S.A.’, ‘The Wolf’, ‘Traitor’, ‘Dogs’, ‘All For You’ and ‘Boogey Man’.
In Other news: MOTÖRHEAD are among the artists who will be featured on the soundtrack to the upcoming "SpongeBob Squarepants" movie, reports ABC ePrep. THE FLAMING LIPS will provide the disc's first single, a track called "SpongeBob and Patrick Confront the Psychic Wall of Energy", while Lemmy and the boys have re-recorded their song "You Better Run" under the new title "You Better Swim". The album will be released November 9, ten days before the film opens in theaters.
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| 1 October 2004
IRON MAIDEN is one of the first bands to be confirmed for the Graspop Festival 2005, to be held in Belgium from July 24th - 26th.
MEGADETH and AXEL RUDI PELL have also been confirmed to perform.
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| 1 October 2004
British death metallers CANCER have updated their official website (see LINKS) with the following message:
“Cancer has recruited a new lead guitarist, Dave Leitch, a local chap from Telford speed freeks PULVERISED.
We look forward to recording the new album with him and touring in 2005, our first show being at Camden Underworld at Easter, so c u there.” Earlier this month Cancer announced that the band and guitarist Rob Engvikson had parted ways amicably.
Cancer vocalist/guitarist John Walker and drummer Carl Stokes are currently writing material for a new full length Cancer album. Stay tuned for more details.
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| 1 October 2004
Boston's newly reunited thrash pioneers WARGASM are working on a new DVD which the band says "is going to be a historical look at the band, and will include songs from the reunion show (held September 18th at the Middle East Club in Cambridge, MA), as well as other stuff from the vaults. People that would be interested in buying the DVD when it comes out can send an email to: wargasm_dvd@yahoo.com.
"
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| 1 October 2004
Original EXCITER members Dan Beehler (vocals/drums) and Allan Johnson (bass) have announced they have come to an agreement with Megaforce Records to re-release the first six Exciter albums.
ANNIHILATOR guitarist/founder Jeff Waters has already remastered the albums. They include: "Heavy Metal Maniac" (1983), "Violence and Force" (1984), "Long Live The Loud" (1985), "Better Live Than Dead" (1990), "Unveiling The Wicked" (1986) and "O.T.T."(1988). These re-releases will include bonus material such as video footage, rare interviews and pictures from that era.
In addition, the "Feel The Knife" EP (1985) and "World War III" (US Metal Volume 2/Shrapnel Records single 1982) will be re- issued, also with bonus material. Violence And Force will be re-released internationally on November 9th. The rest of the catalogue will appear on the shelves in early 2005.
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| 1 October 2004
Originally released this past June in Japan only, via Toy's Factory Records, ARCH ENEMY's "Dead Eyes See No Future" EP will be issued in Canada and the United States by Century Media on November 30th. It will contain the following tracklisting:
'Dead Eyes See No Future' (from Anthems Of Rebellion), 'We Will Rise' (Live in Paris 2004), 'Burning Angel' (Live in Paris 2004), 'Symphony Of Destruction' (MEGADETH cover), 'Kill With Power' (MANOWAR cover) and 'Incarnated Solvent Abuse' (CARCASS cover).
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| 24 September 2004
Guitarist Kelly Shaefer (ex-ATHEIST, NEUROTICA) has resurfaced with a new project, UNHEARD.
Former this year in Sarasota, Florida, Unheard’s lineup is rounded out by vocalist Mike Callahan, guitarist Donny Jaurols, bassist Mike Fisciana and drummer Dave Budbill.
The band have recorded a demo, of which samples from five songs can currently be heard online.
More information on this project will be announced as it becomes available.
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| 24 September 2004
FLESH MADE SIN has inked a deal with Karmageddon Media. Their first official full length, "Dawn of the Stillborn", is being described as "Plain and honest aggression that goes straight for the kill."
An official statement from the band reads: "Finally we found some lost souls daring to release the first full-length assault of Flesh Made Sin. We really appreciate the offer of Karmageddon Media to let us spit our ripping Thrash-metal to a higher level and a bigger audience. The thrashed up mirror of today's reality. Murder and suicide go hand in hand with malignancy and horror. The eyes of god have been closed upon us. Watch the flesh commit the sin. Envy the stillborn, for they bare the gift of unlife. The true salvation ! '
The tracklisting of "Dawn Of The Stillborn" is as follows: 'Crowned In Torment', 'Possess The Flesh', 'Dawn Of The Stillborn', 'The Cleansing', 'Descending Life', 'Ritual For The Dead', 'Wastelands' and 'Spiritual Death-Trip',
Dawn Of The Stillborn, due out on November 15th, was recorded, mixed and mastered at Harrow Recording Studio in Losser, The Netherlands. The cover artwork was designed by Manuel Tinnemans (NECROPHAGIA/PENTACLE).
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| 24 September 2004
Monster Underground will be releasing the first (and very hard to find) WATCHTOWER CD, "Energetic Disassembly", and it will be available on October 5, 2004.
It will contain a 10 page booklet, featuring lyrics, photos, liner notes from Doug and Jason and a collage of 80s magazine quotes/articles. The song order is as on the original vinyl release.
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| 24 September 2004
JUDAS PRIEST’s new album has been postponed to January 4th, 2005 at the request of Sony/Epic Records.
Judas Priest are currently in a UK studio putting the finishing touches to their highly anticipated, as-yet-untitled comeback record.
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| 24 September 2004
KREATOR have named their new album "Enemy Of God", and will release the effort through SPV Records on January 10th, 2005 in Europe/South America and on January 11th in North America. The limited edition version of the release will come with a bonus DVD which contains a “making of” segment and video clips.
As previously reported, the album’s release will be followed by an extensive world tour, including massive sound and lights plus a killer stage design in the style of the new cover artwork, which will be made by Austrian artist Jochim Luetke (www.luetke.com).
Before the album is released, Kreator will issue a specially priced 4 track EP, including previously unreleased live material and non album tracks.
Tracks to appear on Enemy Of God include: 'Enemy Of God', 'Impossible Brutality', 'Suicide Terrorist', 'Murder Fantasies', 'Dying Race Apocalypse', 'One Evil Comes - A Million Follow', 'Dystopia', 'World Anarchy', 'Voices', 'Under A Blackened Sky', 'When Death Takes It's Dominion', 'The Ancient Plague'.
Kreator’s Mille Petrozza recently commented on the new material, stating, “The style of the songs is pure brutal thrash! Tons of fast shit, sick solos, aggro riffing. I am really psyched about the new shit , can´t wait to hear what you think about it. Looking foreward to get back on the road again, to play for you all!"
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| 24 September 2004
More dates have been confirmed for the upcoming European tour featuring INTO ETERNITY, KATAKLYSM, MYSTIC CIRCLE, GRAVEWORM .
Tour dates now include:
October
1 at Baroeg in Rotterdam, Netherlands
2 at Biebob in Vosselaar, Belgium
3 at Innocent in Hengelo, Netherlands
4 at Rockpalast T2 in Kiel Germany
5 at N8 in Osnabruck, Germany
6 at Zeche Carl in Essen, Germany
7 at K17 in Berlin, Germany
8 at Alte Spinerei in Clauchau, Germany
9 at Mir Club in Uherske Hradiste, Czech Republic
10 at Kultiplex in Budapest, Hungary
11 at Cvetlicarna in Ljubljana, Slovakia
12 at Mme Slavija Club in Ojsek, Croatia
13 at Dom Omladine in Beograd, Serbia
15 at Planet Music in Wien, Austria
16 at Rockhose in Salzburg, Austria
17 at Hafen in Innsbruck, Austria
18 at Transilvania in Milano, Italy
19 at K2 in Heidenheim, Germany
20 at Z7 in Pratteln, Switzerland
22 at Tunk in Irun, Spain
23 at Mephisto in Barcelona, Spain
24 at Mat’s Cafe in La Ferriere, France
25 at La Locomotive in Paris, France
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| 24 September 2004
Jorn Lande (MASTERPLAN) and Russell Allen (SYMPHONY X) have teamed up for an album together that will go under the name LANDE/ALLEN.
The album is still in the recording stages, but is backed up by a stunning set of songs provided by Swedish guitar hero Magnus Karlsson (LAST TRIBE).
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| 24 September 2004
Guitarist Michael Schenker has confirmed the following European live dates for the upcoming MSG tour:
October
27 - Bochum, Germany at Zeche
28 - Tilburg, Holland at 013
29 - Aschaffenburg, Germany at Colos-Saal
30 - Braunschweig, Germany at Meier Music Hall
31 - Ingolstadt, Germany at Ohrakel
November
1 - Nürnberg, Germany at Hirsch
3 - Frankenthal, Germany at Krone
4 - Lucerne, Switzerland - tba
5 - Zürich, Switzerland - tba
6 - Kaufbeuren, Germany at Zeppelinhalle
7 - Vienna, Austria at Planet Music
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| 24 September 2004
DEFIANCE have issued the following via their website (see LINKS):
“Steev Esquivel will front EXODUS on their rescheduled South American tour, Defiance reunion on hold:
It has been reported that Steev will be the touring singer for Exodus on their South American tour, replacing Steve "Zetro" Souza. The tour has been rescheduled for late October. Because Steev will be very busy in rehearsals with Exodus for the next few months and then on tour with the band, the Defiance reunion is going to be put on hold until after the tour is completed. At that time we should have a better idea of what is going to happen going forward.
While Steev is gone the rest of the Defiance band will continue to work on songs and continue to maintain and add new content to the official Defiance website (see LINKS).”
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| 24 September 2004
Organizers of the Keep It True Festival have announced the billing for their warm up show called Pounding Attack. The following acts will appear: DESTINY, RAM, RAIN, LIGEIA
. The show will take place on November 5th at the Pfarrkeller in Lauda, Germany. Tickets cost seven Euro and are extremely limited.
As previously reported, the Keep It True Festival will take place on November 6th at Tauberfrankenhalle in Lauda-Königshofen, Germany. Confirmed acts include: HELSTAR (featuring original bassist Jerry Abarca), HALLOWS EVE, STORMWITCH, TYRANTS REIGN, JAGUAR, SACRED STEEL, WITCHFYNDE, ROTTWEILLER, METAL INQUISITOR and REPENT.
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| 18 September 2004
Tim Aymar, vocalist of Chuck Schuldiners CONTROL DENIED band has another national release. The band is called PHARAOH and the album title is: "After the fire".
Check it out at this location.
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| 18 September 2004
Swedish progressive metal band PAIN OF SALVATION have announced plans to release their first DVD. "The 'BE' DVD will be out hopefully as soon as this December, and will really complete the 'BE' world in a very nice way," revealed singer Daniel Gildenlöw. "It will most likely contain a live CD of 'BE' as well and a lot more booklet information and pictures, and is thus the ultimate 'BE' box together with the studio album, which is being released late September. This is by far the best and most original and brainy stuff that's ever come out of the band. It will be truly painful having to knock it down the ladder with our coming albums..."
PAIN OF SALVATION's new studio album, "BE", is scheduled for release later this month through InsideOut Music.
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| 18 September 2004
MASTERPLAN, the band featuring ex-HELLOWEEN guitarist Roland Grapow, ex-HELLOWEEN drummer Uli Kusch and former YNGWIE MALMSTEEN/ARK singer Jorn Lande, recently entered Crazy Cat studio in Hamburg, Germany with producer Andy Sneap (MACHINE HEAD, ARCH ENEMY, NEVERMORE, SKINLAB) to begin recording their second album, tentatively due in early 2005 through AFM Records in Europe and Marquee Records in Japan and Southeast Asia.
"This record has a far more natural feel to it and it's even very progressive I feel in a lot of parts," Jorn Lande said. "We had to cut two epic songs back to six minutes. The 'Masterplan' album was very intense, even schizophrenic, but with this one we have really used space a lot more. Vocally, it is slightly different too, I'm using a lot more darker moods, almost Peter Gabriel- or David Bowie [-like]. Don't worry though — it's still a very heavy record, great riffs, solos and songs, but a bit more of a challenge."
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| 18 September 2004
Long-running Canadian thrashers INFERNAL MAJESTY have been forced to postpone their European tour (which was to take place in September) until January "as work visas were not issued in time for some countries," according to a posting on the group's web site. The band are planning on returning to the road in the U.S. the first week of December and Europe in January. Exact cities and dates will be announced soon.
INFERNAL MAJESTY's latest album, "One Who Points To Death", was released this past spring through Greece's Black Lotus Records. The North American release is being handled by Canada's Galy Records.
The album is also already reviewed by Mario's Metal Mania (see REVIEWS)
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| 18 September 2004
GOD DETHRONED finished the recordings of their new album "The Liar Of The White Worm".
The album will hit the streets on November 15th.
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| 18 September 2004
ORPHANAGE parted ways with keyboardist Lasse. The band states they will work with two guitar players also and will introduce the new band members soon.
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| 18 September 2004
Steve Souza parted ways with EXODUS. Conflicting reports said he left, or was fired from the band. Guitarist Gary Holt insulted Souza big time on the forum of the official EXODUS website (see LINKS), stating he hated Souza now. Later that day Holt rephrased some of his lines and admitted he should have reacted in a more professional way..........
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| 18 September 2004
MOTORHEAD posted the following update: "Motorhead regrets to announce that the US tour scheduled for September and October 2004 is canceled due to a foot injury suffered by vocalist/bassist Lemmy Kilmister. Lemmy injured his foot on stage about month ago while touring in Europe. Lemmy, ignoring the pain and against his European doctor's recommendation, completed the few remaining shows on the Motorhead summer festival tour. Since he was not able to rest his foot for a while, Lemmy's injury worsened, and his US doctor insisted in no uncertain terms that Lemmy stay off his foot for several weeks in order for it to heal properly. Motorhead will return for a U.S. tour in March 2005.. Lemmy, guitarist Philip Campbell and drummer Mikkey Dee hate to disappoint their fans but it is necessary for Lemmy's injury to heal so that Motorhead can rock long into the future."
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| 18 September 2004
AGENT STEEL issued the following update: "This month is officially Agent Steel's 20 year anniversary since the band first began performing live in support of acts like Slayer. We are currently writing material for the follow-up to Order of the Illuminati, with a scheduled release date for some time in 2005. We've got 4-5 solid song ideas with more to come. The plan to release our live DVD is still in the works; the as-yet-untitled disc will mainly include live footage from our appearance at Dynamo Open Air 2004 festival in Holland and also a few songs from the warm up show at the Effenaar in Eindhoven. We've been contacted by various promoters and agencies about possible tours, and some live shows (including some European festivals); as soon as something is finalized we will make an official announcement, but at this time there are no live shows scheduled so we can concentrate of finishing up the new album."
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| 18 September 2004
AFTERSHOCK inked a deal with Auburn Records and their new album, titled "Burning Chrome", will be released during the fall. According to the band: "We handled sales and distribution of our first CD, Unfinished Business, ourselves, but Bill Peters (President of Auburn) was there in the background providing sound guidance and advice. With our second release, we decided 'Why not make it official?'. Bill has a 20-year track record of releasing great metal and handling business interests with total integrity, so we're happy to be working with him to market this record."
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| 18 September 2004
E-FORCE, featuring ex-VOIVOD frontman Eric Forrest, are planning to tour through Europe from November 1st - 25th with MACABRE and possibly D.R.I. Details and dates have yet to be confirmed.
He also announced the new E-Force line-up, which is as follows: Eric Forrest (bass/vocals), Dennis Rousell (guitars), Krof (drums) and Jerome Point (lead guitar).
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| 18 September 2004
US doom lords SOLITUDE AETURNUS are just heading into the studio to record their new album. The band recently activated their new official website at www.eternalsolitude.com.
The site currently has a demo version available for the track ‘Waiting For The Light’, which will be featured on the forthcoming new album, entitled "Alone".
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| 18 September 2004
Death metallers CANCER have posted the following band update at their official website (see LINKS):
“After some successful shows around Europe, Cancer and (guitarist) Rob Engvikson have parted ways. This was a totally amicable decision by both parties."
Quote from (drummer) Carl Stokes... “There is no malice between the band and Rob, and we wish him well with his ASATRU project, and we'll see him down the pub for a beer.” Cancer vocalist/guitarist John Walker and drummer Carl Stokes are currently writing material for a new full length Cancer album.
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| 18 September 2004
SYMPHONY X has issued the following studio update via their official website (see LINKS):
“The band is still splitting time between writing the new Symphony X CD, and recording (vocalist) Russ' (Allen) solo CD (which is being recorded entirely in 'The Dungeon').
Russ' CD should be recorded and mixed by October, at which time they'll concentrate on writing, and then recording the new Symphony X CD.
At this time they anticipate the new CD to be ready for release sometime next spring.” More details as they become available.
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| 18 September 2004
Thrash metal veteran Steve Gaines (DREAMS OF DAMNATION, BITCH, ex-ABATTOIR) has downloads of two songs from his solo CD, "Anger As Art", available at his website at this location.
Says Gaines: "Critics, fans, musicians, and journalists have responded favorably to it, and I appreciate it. But I want to share it with as many metal heads as possible, and this is the best way to do it. One critic called it 'a cross between AT THE GATES, and VIO-LENCE with huge vocals.' I don't know about that, but go see for yourself."
A review of this album will be added soon on Mario's Metal Mania.
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| 18 September 2004
Sanctuary Records have inked a deal with newly reunited Swedish rockers EUROPE for their upcoming album, "Start From The Dark", due out on September 27 via T&T. The album is due out in Japan on September 22nd. The first single is ‘Got To Have Faith’, which was released on August 21st. Start From The Dark features the following tracklisting: ‘Got To Have Faith’, ‘Start From The Dark’, ‘Flames’, ‘Hero’, ‘Wake Up Call’, ‘Reason’, ‘Song No.12’, ‘Roll With You’, ‘Sucker’, ‘Spirit Of The Underdog’, ‘America’, ‘Settle For Love’, ‘Seven Doors Hotel’ (Live At Sweden Rock)* and ‘Wings Of Tomorrow’ (Live At Sweden Rock)* (*Japanese bonus tracks).
Also, digital remasters of the following titles from the group’s back catalog will be issued in Japan on September 23rd: "Europe" (1983), "Wings Of Tomorrow" (1984), "Final Countdown" (1986), "Out Of This World" (1988) and "Prisoners In Paradise" (1991).
EUROPE’s official website (see LINKS) has also posted dates for the band’s upcoming tour in support of their new album, "Start From The Dark". Upcoming Europe tour dates include:
October
14 Helsinki, Finland at House Of Culture
16 Link–ping, Sweden at Cloetta Center
17 Sundsvall, Sweden at Hallen
19 Oslo, Norway at Rockefeller
20 Karlstad, Sweden at Lila Arena
21 Stockholm, Sweden at Hovet
22 Goteborg, Sweden at Scandinavium
24 Hallen, Denmark at KB
26 Flensburg, Germany at Roxy
27 Hamburg, Germany at Fabrik
28 Koln, Germany at Live Music Hall
29 Nurnberg, Germany at Lowensaal
31 Stuttgart, Germany at Longhorn LKA
November
1 Munchen, Germany at Georg-Else-Halle
2 Wien, Austria at Kurhalle
4 Milano, Italy at Alcatraz
6 Madrid, Spain at Aqualung
7 Pamplona, Spain at Anaitasuna
9 Barcelona, Spain at Razzmatazz
10 Paris, France at Elysee Montmartre
12 Antwerp, Belgium at Hof Ter Lo
13 Tilburg, Netherlands at 013
15 London, England at Hammersmith Apollo
Guitarist John Norum will be releasing his new solo album in January 2005.
Norum's last solo CD, "Slipped Into Tomorrow", was released in 1999.
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| 18 September 2004
Finnish power metallers SONATA ARCTICA have issued a four-song, pre-release EP in Europe, through Nuclear Blast. In addition to the title track, "Don't Say A Word" includes two cover songs 'World In My Eyes' (DEPECHE MODE) and 'Two Minds, One Soul' (VANISHING POINT) and 'Ain’t Your Fairytale', which appears on the forthcoming full-length "Reckoning Night".
"Reckoning Night" is set for release in Japan on October 6th and throughout Europe on October 11th.
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| 18 September 2004
James MacDonough has quit ICED EARTH to become the touring bassist for MEGADETH. He has summarized the switch in the following posting :
"Hey guys, A while back I had heard that Megadeth might need a bassist so I contacted them via email and much later got a response to my surprise. Before I knew it I was on a conference call with Dave (Mustaine). I sent in some video of me playing a couple Megadeth songs and I got a call a couple days later.
Everything with IE has been up in the air as far as touring so I told Jon (Schaffer) about this when I got the first email back and being my older bro, he told me to go for it. Unfortunately I won't be able to play with IE in the future because this will be a very lengthy tour, but we'll see what happens down the road. I am keeping in touch with Jon and maybe something in the future will happen. Megadeth has always been one of my favorite bands and I have a lot of respect for Dave and what he's done for music, I feel honored to have been picked for this endeavor.
James"
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| 10 September 2004
MARIO'S METAL MANIA will be updated on saturday 18 September again...............now i'm having a short vacation...........
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| 3 September 2004
LEATHERWOLF, on the verge of a comeback with RACER X singer Jeff Martin in the driver's seat, have uploaded two new full length audio clips of the songs 'Behind The Gun' and 'Disconnect' at their official website (see LINKS).
The band is currently searching out a record deal with these two tracks and the song 'Burned', which is available at the same location. They describe the new material as "the most powerful and progressive LEATHERWOLF songs ever written! Very heavy!"
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| 3 September 2004
BOLT THROWER have announced the departure of vocalist Dave Ingram (ex-BENEDICTION).
In a statement, the band said: "Dave has been suffering with health and personal problems for a while now and he has decided that it would be best if he left the band to concentrate on his recovery. We would like to thank him for the 6 years he dedicated to the band and we wish him all the very best for the future." Bolt Thrower were due to go into the studio to record their eighth album, (the follow up to 2001's Honour, Valour, Pride - the only BT release featuring Ingram on vocals), but the recording will now be delayed until a replacement is found.
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| 3 September 2004
New York hardcore legends AGNOSTIC FRONT have set a January 5, 2005 North American release date through Nuclear Blast Records for their new album, "Another Voice". The CD will arrive in Europe on November 22.
"Another Voice" was produced by Zeuss (HATEBREED, SHADOWS FALL) and Jamey Jasta (HATEBREED) and is said to be the group's "meanest" and "nastiest" offering to date. The enhanced CD will include a "ripping" band performance and a guest appearance by Jasta, captured by acclaimed director Dale "Rage" Resteghini (FEAR FACTORY, HATEBREED, GOD FORBID, SHADOWS FALL, CANDIRIA) Other special guest vocal appearances on "Another Voice" include Scott Vogel (TERROR) and Karl Buechner (EARTH CRISIS, FREYA).
In other news, AGNOSTIC FRONT will be shooting their first-ever home DVD here at the legendary CBGBs club in New York City on November 7. The band will be performing two shows starting at 3pm and 5pm for only $5 per show. There will be no openers and the group will be playing two different sets with songs from every one of their releases, including "Another Voice".
AGNOSTIC FRONT's current lineup consists of Roger Miret (vocals), Vinnie Stigma (guitar), Lenny DiSclafani (guitar), Steve Gallo (drums) and Mike Gallo (bass).
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| 3 September 2004
SYSTEM OF A DOWN are still eyeing a December release for their fourth album. "We're in the thick of it still, doing a lot of overdubs," singer Serj Tankian said. "It's going great. I'm happy with all the songs, the diversity of it."
Tankian is also working on mixing a song he and AUDIOSLAVE's Tom Morello and Brad Wilk recorded in his studio while rehearsing for an Axis of Justice concert. "We started jamming and we did this little jazzy piece with poetry over it and it turned out cool," Tankian said of the track, which will be released on Axis of Justice's web site.
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| 3 September 2004
Long-running Swedish death metallers DISMEMBER have announced the addition of bassist Johan Bergebäck to the group's ranks. "[Former bassist] Rickard Cabeza nowadays live in Dallas, Texas which makes it too hard for him to be an active part of the band. We wish him all the best! Johan Bergebäck has been the session bassplayer for the last year supporting the latest release 'Where Ironcrosses Grow'. Johan has the right attitude and fits in the band both musically and personally."
DISMEMBER's most recent album, "Where Ironcrosses Grow", was released in the U.S. in April through Candlelight Records. The follow-up to 2000's "Hate Campaign" was recorded at Stockholm's Sami studio and features artwork by acclaimed artist Dan Seagrave (ENTOMBED, SUFFOCATION, MORBID ANGEL).
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| 3 September 2004
GIRLSCHOOL will be filming their show at The Garage in London on December 8 for their first-ever live DVD.
GIRLSCHOOL's video for the track "Come On Up" has been posted online at the group's official web site. "Come On Up" comes off the band's most recent album, "Believe", available now on Communique Records. The CD was produced by produced by Tim Hamill and GIRLSCHOOL.
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| 3 September 2004
MANOWAR’s official website (www.manowar.com) has been updated with the news that bassist Joey DeMaio has issued a statement from Munich, Germany confirming that Manowar has left Nuclear Blast Records.
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| 3 September 2004
FORCE OF EVIL, the band featuring vocalist Martin Steene (IRONFIRE), guitarist Michael Denner (MERCYFUL FATE), guitarist Hank Shermann (MERCYFUL FATE), bassist Hal Patino (KING DIAMOND) and drummer Bjarne Holm, will begin the tracking of 12 new songs at Jailhouse Studio in Horsens, Denmark with Tommy Hansen, on September 6th. The CD is set for an early 2005 release through Escapi/Navarre and the band say "Expect to 'Bleed'". Force Of Evil released a new DVD in May called Evil Comes... Alive. The concert featured on the DVD was recorded in Stockholm, Sweden in November, 2003 in Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS. The disc contains extra material such as songs from the band’s first concert at the BW&BK 6-Pack Weekend last June, In the Studio, Interviews, Promo Video, Image Gallery, Biography and more.
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| 3 September 2004
KING DIAMOND's forthcoming album, "Deadly Lullabyes Live", is due out on September 20th in Europe via Massacre Records. The release will be issued in North America through Metal Blade on September 21st. Deadly Lullabyes Live will be released in 2-CD, double Digipak and 3-LP editions. Tracks to appear on the release include: ‘Funeral’, ‘Mansion In Darkness’, ‘The Family Ghost’, ‘Black Horsemen’, ‘Spare This Life’, ‘Mansion In Sorrow’, ‘Spirits’, ‘Sorry Dear’, ‘Eye Of The Witch’, ‘Sleepless Nights’, ‘Puppetmaster’, ‘Blood To Walk’, ‘So Sad’, 'Living Dead' (Outro), ‘Welcome Home’, ‘Invisible Guest’, ‘Burn’, Introductions, ‘Halloween’ and ‘No Presents For Christmas’.
King stated recently, "The new double live album simply KICKS ASSSSSSS!!!! I don't think I have ever heard the old classic Diamond songs performed this well and this close to the originals. I speak for everyone when I say, that we have never had as much fun on stage as we had on this last tour, and it shows when you listen to the album.”
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| 3 September 2004
VOIVOD will see a few titles from their back catalog reissued in Europe on September 20th through the Blackend label.
Titles scheduled for reissue include "Kronik" (1998), "Phobos" (1997) and "Negatron" (1995).
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| 3 September 2004
Guitarist Nikolo Kotzev, BRAZEN ABBOT, has inked a record deal with the Italian label Frontiers Records. The site added: "The Brazen Abbot DVD is completed and ready for release in October! A CD with music from the DVD will be released at the same time. A new Brazen Abbot album is in the works as well! The album will feature 11 tracks with the following line-up: Nikolo Kotzev (guitars, violins, percussion), Wayne Banks (bass), Nelko Kolarov (keyboards, organs), Mattias Knutas (drums), Joe Lynn Turner (vocals), Göran Edman (vocals) and Erik Martensson (vocals) The drums have already been recorded, and Nik is hoping to have the recordings completed before Christmas."
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| 3 September 2004
The Seattle based outfit ROTTWEILLER which supplied former singer Ronny Munroe to METAL CHURCH has signed a deal with Germany's Hellion Records, a label specializing in giving new life to oft overlooked bands. The band's newly revamped website (see LINKS) contains clips of three songs off the forthcoming Rage Of War. The band is headed to Germany, to participate in the third edition of the Keep It True festival, November 6th. Their appearance will be
recorded in hopes of a future release.
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| 3 September 2004
IRON MAIDEN updates:
- The band will take the rest of 2004 off, and start preparing another summer festival tour in late April/early May 2005.
- This tour will probably feature three or four weeks of touring in America, in addition to the European dates.
- They will then take the rest of the summer off.
- A new album will be written and recorded in late 2005 and released some time in 2006, followed by another world tour in the same vein as the Dance of Death Tour last year. According to a previous press release, this tour will most likely feature dates in South America.
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| 3 September 2004
JAG PANZER guitarist Chris Broderick has launched his website at www.chrisbroderick.net.
On it, Broderick has posted the following update concerning his forthcoming DVD release:
The intent of this video, which will feature outtakes, bonus material and plenty of live footage, "is to have both technical and theoretical ideas paralleling each other while becoming more advanced," says Chris. "Unfortunately, the scope of this video will only cover tonal or key based soloing. I was originally going to cover altered scales, but the scope of this DVD would get too big (Maybe I'll save that for another DVD?)"
The DVD will feature:
1. Warm-ups
2. Keys, modes
3. Scale fragments
4. Intervals
5. Seventh arpeggios
More info as it is available....
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| 27 August 2004
Dan Beehler (former EXCITER) wrote to Mario's Metal Mania: "We, BEEHLER (see LINKS), are just writing and recording the full length CD. Hopefully it will be ready in a few months. We are revamping our website (finally) so people can get our demos and shirts.
Keep Pounding Metal
Dan Beehler"
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| 27 August 2004
The first 5 bands for next years Headbangers Open Air Festival (see LINKS) are already confirmed: WEAPON, Z-IRON, INNER WISH, WARRANT & ATTACKER.
The festival will take place on 8 & 9 july 2005 at Brande-Hörnerkirchen, Germany. More bands will follow soon..............
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| 27 August 2004
FLOTSAM & JETSAM are almost done writing material for their upcoming album according to a posting on their website. The band needs 2 or three more songs. Flotsam & Jetsam will embark on a short Japanese tour with Death Angel and Overkill in September.
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| 27 August 2004
EIDOLON signed with Escapi. If everything goes according to plan, the band's new album will be out in the spring of 2005.
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| 27 August 2004
FLESH MADE SIN completed the recordings of their first full length "Dawn Of The Stillborn". A release is expected in November and a European trek with HOLY MOSES is in the works for December/January.
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| 27 August 2004
The new studio album of METAL CHURCH will be a bit delayed. Here's the update: "The record label (SPV) has pushed back the release date of "The Weight Of The World" to September 28, 2004 (North America) and September 29, 2004 (Europe) in order to more heavily promote the album. The first leg of the tour has wrapped up, and more dates are being put together now... we'll post them on the site as they get confirmed. Management is very pleased with how well Metal Church was received on the road, and while waiting an extra 2 months for the album release wasn't in the original plan, having their support and promotion behind us will help get Metal Church into more venues world-wide."
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| 27 August 2004
AMORPHIS and singer Pasi Koskinen have parted ways. Here's the short update: "Singer Pasi Koskinen decided to leave the band after 9 long years. Pasi's last appearance will be at Kontu Rock 21.8.2004. All touring plans will go ahead as scheduled and rumors of a replacement already exists. We are waiting for a statement from Pasi in the near future."
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| 27 August 2004
The power metal band KAMELOT is putting the finishing touches to their new studio album. Here's a short update: “Hello All! Well after nearly 24 hours of traveling I am finally home in Florida. The weather in Germany could not have been better for me, hot and sunny. We are not finished completely, however, but we are now 90% done with the new album. We will meet this week with cover artist Derek Gores to discuss the new cover. Expect the usual fantastic work from Derek with some new ideas as well. I want to say thanks to all the great people in the Wolfsburg area, from the Hotel we stayed at to the families of the studio staff that made us feel at home. Also hello to the Epica band members who were also at Gate Studios working on their new release. Cheers!! Thomas and Kamelot”
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| 27 August 2004
GOD DETHRONED are reportedly holed up ine Berno Studios in Malmö, Sweden working on a new album entitled "The Lair Of The White Worm". The album is tentatively scheduled to be released in January 2005 through Metal Blade.
The track list is as follows: ‘The Lair Of The White Worm’, ‘Nihilism’, ‘Salt In Your Wounds’, ‘The Last Zip Of Spit’, ‘Loyal To The Crown Of God Dethroned’, ‘Rusty Nails’, ‘Sigma Enigma’, ‘Arch Enemy Spain’ and one as-yet-untitled track.
The band will be releasing a video for ‘The Lair Of The White Worm’ to coincide with the release
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| 27 August 2004
LABYRINTH (see LINKS) is hard at work on the follow up to last year’s self-titled album, which saw a marked change in the band’s sound and attitude. Drums and guitars have been recorded, and the band is now preparing to lay down bass, keyboard and vocal tracks. Giovanni Spinotti, who has previously worked with Alanis Morrisette, is the sound engineer for the album.
The album, tentatively titled "Free Man", will consist of nine tracks and will likely be released in January/February 2005.
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| 27 August 2004
Germany's WIZARD are currently working on the songs for the successor of their 2003 released concept-album Odin, and will start with the pre-production soon.
According to the band, the lyrics will be "Wizard style" again and just as the fans expect them to be. The recording of the album is planned to take place in January/February of 2005 with the release set for May.
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| 27 August 2004
GLENN HUGHES (ex-DEEP PURPLE, BLACK SABBATH) entered the studio on Wednesday night (August 18th) with JANE’S ADDICTION guitarist Dave Navarro and RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS drummer Chad Smith.
"It should be a blast," Navarro wrote on his website before heading in to record with former bandmate Smith. "I haven't recorded with Chad in years. The track is like a '70s-rock-meets-Rage-Against-the-Machine vibe." No word yet on where the song will appear. More details as they become available.
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| 27 August 2004
HAMMERFALL will enter the studio in September to begin recording their new album. The effort is scheduled for release March 2005 through Nuclear Blast.
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| 20 August 2004
British black metal pioneers VENOM are currently in the studio recording their new album, tentatively due in early 2005. "They are recording the heaviest songs from their demo sessions for their next opus," reads a posting on the band's official web site.
VENOM's current incarnation consists of mainman Conrad "Cronos" Lant alongside drummer Antton and latest addition, guitarist Mykus.
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| 20 August 2004
New York hardcore legends AGNOSTIC FRONT have inked a deal with Nuclear Blast Records. The band's new album, "Another Voice", is scheduled for release in November. A video for the song "Peace" was recently shot with director Dale "Rage" Resteghini (FEAR FACTORY, HATEBREED, GOD FORBID, CANDIRIA). The clip, which features an appearance by former AF guitarist Matt Henderson, "came off awesome," according to a posting on the group's web site.
AGNOSTIC FRONT's current lineup consists of Roger Miret (vocals), Vinnie Stigma (guitar), Lenny DiSclafani (guitar), Steve Gallo (drums) and Mike Gallo (bass).
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| 20 August 2004
Reunited NWOBHM legends DIAMOND HEAD have amicably parted ways with singer Sean Harris due to musical differences. A replacement singer has already been acquired in the shape of Nick Tart.
"Nick has re-energized the band with his phenomenal voice and fresh songwriting input," reads an official press release. A new album has been written and recording will begin in September for a spring 2005 release.
DIAMOND HEAD's current lineup is completed by Brian Tatler (guitar), Karl Wilcox (drums), Eddie Moohan (bass) and Mills (rhythm guitar).
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| 20 August 2004
Renowned metal guitarist James Murphy (ex-TESTAMENT, DEATH, OBITUARY) has officially joined FOREIGN OBJECTS, the "neo-technical death metal" band formed by CKY members Deron Miller (guitar) and Jess Margera (drums). The group are planning on playing scattered shows in support of their upcoming double-CD, "Universal Culture Shock/Undiscovered Numbers and Colors", due on October 31 through Distant Recordings. This two-disc compilation features the "Universal Culture Shock" album (which was recorded in 1998 but shelved until now) and the "Undiscovered Numbers and Colors" EP, which was originally released in 1995. Both CDs have been digitally remastered and Disc Two is enhanced with one of the only two shows that FOREIGN OBJECTS has ever played in their brief career.
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| 20 August 2004
OBITUARY, MASTER and VISCERAL BLEEDING will be teaming up for a reunion tour across Europe. The tour will kick of early October.
Confirmed dates for the trek include:
October
8 in Eindhoven, Netherlands at Effenaar
9 in Sint-Lievens-Houtem, Belgium at De Fabriek
10 in Dublin, Ireland at The Village
11 in Paris, France at La Locomotive
15 in Reggio Emilia, Italy at Transilvania Live
19 in Bradford, UK at Bradford - Rio
20 in London, UK at The Electric Ballroom
21 in Osnabrück, Germany at Düttehalle
22 in Berlin, Germany at K17
23 in Thessaloniki, Greece at Hydrogios
More dates will be announced soon.
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| 20 August 2004
The release date for EUROPE's new album is nearing closer. The album is due out in Japan on September 22nd and throughout Europe and Scandinavia on September 26th.
The first single is ‘Got To Have Faith’, which is out on August 21st.
The as-yet-untitled new album features the following tracklisting: ‘Got To Have Faith’, ‘Start From The Dark’, ‘Flames’, ‘Hero’, ‘Wake Up Call’, ‘Reason’, ‘Song No.12’, ‘Roll With You’, ‘Sucker’, ‘Spirit Of The Underdog’, ‘America’, ‘Settle For Love’, ‘Seven Doors Hotel’ (Live At Sweden Rock)* and ‘Wings Of Tomorrow’ (Live At Sweden Rock)* (* Japanese bonus tracks).
In other release news EUROPE will release a limited edition version of their new DVD, Live In Stockholm, in Japan on September 22nd.
Also, digital remasters of the following titles from the group’s back catalog will be issued in Japan on September 23rd: Europe, Wings Of Tomorrow, Final Countdown, Out Of This World and Prisoners In Paradise.
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| 20 August 2004
Thrash Metal veteran Steve Gaines will be releasing a solo project CD ( title: Anger As Art ) in late August 2004. Gaines, who was/is the vocalist for ABATTOIR, BLOODLUST, PAGAN WAR MACHINE, guitarist for Dreams Of Damnation, bassist for Abattoir, Bloodlust, Pagan War Machine, Bitch, and guest vocalist on numerous projects says the recording will be "exactly what you would expect from me, if you are familiar with the work I have done through the years. Straight up thrash - high energy metal, with the classic Gaines vocal style."
Why a solo project ? " It is an interesting time for me right now. I am involved with all of the bands I am known for, but situations out of my control forced me into the studio last month to record demos of my songs. I did everything, including lead guitar. And they were coming out very strong, so I decided to release them. Because in a band situation run as a democracy, they may not be heard otherwise"
What about future plans ? " So much depends on situations out of my control. Ultimately, I would like these songs to be part of the bands I am involved with, as each one fits certain band's styles. Plus, I have commitments to honor to each of the bands listed above. I don't necessarily want to be a solo artist, but I actually have some labels who have made inquiries as to what I am doing with this recording, so we'll see. "
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| 20 August 2004
EXCITER have announced European tour dates in support of their latest release, "New Testament - Coven Of Rerecorded Classics". The Ottawa-based thrashers will be joined by Swedish power metallers STEEL ATTACK and another band to be announced.
Confirmed dates for the European trek include:
October
8 - Osnabruck, Germany at Tor 3
9 - Tilburg, Netherlands at O13
10 - Zaandam, Netherlands at Kade
11 - Essen, Germany at Zeche Carl
12 - Berlin, Germany at K17
13 - Trier, Germany at ExHaus
14 - Heidelberg, Germany at Schwimmbad Musikclub
15 - TBA, Italy
16 - Winterthur/Zurich, Switzerland at Alte Kaserne
17 - Vosselaar, Belgium at Biebob
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| 20 August 2004
The organizers of the Bang Your Head Festival (see LINKS), held annually in Balingen, Germany, have confirmed the following bands for next year’s gathering:
TWISTED SISTER
MOTORHEAD
DIO
NEVERMORE
GAMMA RAY
DORO
AXEL RUDI PELL
KROKUS
AMON AMARTH
DESTRUCTION
NASTY SAVAGE
VICIOUS RUMORS
JAG PANZER
TANKARD
DEMON
Seven more bands and one very special guest are due to be announced soon. BYH 2005 will be the festival’s 10th Anniversary, held on June 24th and 25th.
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| 20 August 2004
The long wait for new music from the definitive JUDAS PRIEST lineup of vocalist Rob Halford, lead guitarist Glenn Tipton, lead guitarist K.K. Downing, bass guitarist Ian Hill and drummer Scott Travis is nearly over. Judas Priest will release a new studio album on December 28, 2004, worldwide on Sony Music (Sony's Epic Records label in North America). The album title and track listing is forthcoming. As a special bonus, a live concert DVD filmed during shows in Barcelona and Valencia in Spain in June 2004 will be included in the initial shipment. The new album is the first from the Halford/Tipton/Downing/Hill/Travis lineup since 1990's acclaimed Painkiller.
Tipton recently described the new album as "classic Priest" to 'Entertainment Tonight': "Even though we've evolved, it is recognizable Priest. The formula between myself, K.K. and Rob has been tried and tested. It was fantastic to all get back in the same room." The full power of Judas Priest will be on display when the band embarks on a headlining world tour in early 2005 immediately following the release of the new album.
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| 20 August 2004
Polish black metallers BEHEMOTH have completed mixing their forthcoming album, "Demigod", at Dug-Out studios in Uppsala, Sweden with Daniel Bergstrand (MESHUGGAH, IN FLAMES). The album was mastered at Stockholm's Cutting Room Studios.
"Demigod" will feature the following track listing: 'Sculpting The Throne Ov Seth', 'Demigod', 'Conquer All', 'The Nephilim Rising', 'Towards Babylon', 'Before Aeons Came', 'Mysterium Coniunctionis (Hermanubis)', 'XUL', 'Slaves Shall Serve', 'The Reign Ov Shemsu-Hor'.
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| 20 August 2004
Legendary rockers UFO have announced the following European live dates:
October
27 - Bochum, Germany at Zeche
28 - Tilburg, Holland at 013
29 - Aschaffenburg, Germany at Colossaal
30 - Brauenschweig, Germany at Meier Music Hall
31 - Ingolstadt, Germany at Fronte79
November
01 - Nürnberg, Germany at Hirsch
03 - Frankenthal, Germany at Krone
04 - Luzern, Switzerland at ABCMIXX
05 - Kloten, Switzerland at Alpenrock-House
06 - Kaufbeuren, Germany at Germany Zeppelinhalle
07 - Vienna, Austria at Austria Planet Music
09 - Warschau, Poland at Proxima
UFO released their new album, "You Are Here", in the US on March 16th through SPV. The 2004 lineup of UFO features vocalist Phil Mogg, bassist Pete Way, keyboarder/rhythm guitarist Paul Raymond, guitarist Vinnie Moore and drummer Jason Bonham.
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| 20 August 2004
DEICIDE will be touring Europe this fall after the much publicized cancelation of overseas dates this past June. The support bands will be announced very soon as will dates in Sweden and Finland. Confirmed dates are as follows:
October
29 - Hasselt, Belgium at Muziek-o-droom
30 - Nancy, France at Metal Therapy Festival
31 - Haarlem, Netherlands at Patronaat
November
01 - Paris, France at La Locomotive
02 - Toulouse, France at Havana
03 - Bergara, Spain at Sala Jam
04 - Madrid, Spain at Arena
05 - Porto, Portugal at Hard Club
06 - Granada, Spain at El Tren
07 - Barcelona, Spain at Mephisto
08 - Marseille, France at Mirabeau
09 - Bolgna, Italy at Estragon
10 - Dudingen, Switzerland at Bad Bonn
11 - Heidelberg, Germany at Schwimmbad
12 - Berlin, Germany at K17
13 - Copenhagen, Denmark at The Rock
23 - Bergen, Norway at Garage
24 - Stavanger, Norway at Folken
25 - Arhus, Denmark at Voxhall
26 - Osnabruck, Germany at Tor 3
27 - Bad Salzungen, Germany at Kallewerk
28 - Eindhiven, Netherlands at Effenaar
29 - London, UK at Mean Fiddler
30 - Birmingham, UK at Academy2
December
01 - Manchester, UK at Hop & Grape
02 - Glasgow, UK at Cathouse
03 - Bradford, UK at Rio
04 - Dublin, Ireland at The Village
05 - Bristol, UK at Bierkeller
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| 20 August 2004
VIO-LENCE's forthcoming live album is available to download for a limited time at their website (see LINKS). Expect the album to emerge later this year through Megaforce.
Meanwhile, the band continues to put together their upcoming double-DVD set that will see live footage spanning the band's entire existence as well as a full-length documentary. Included on the documentary will be commentary by all the members of Vio-Lence (going back to the Death Penalty days) as well as comments by fellow Bay Area thrashers EXODUS, DEATH ANGEL, FORBIDDEN and many others. Expect lots of rare, unreleased footage. Megaforce will issue the DVD in late 2004/early 2005.
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| 20 August 2004
The Heavy Metal Maniacs Festival V (see LINKS) is set to take place on October 30th at Manifesto in Hoorn, Netherlands.
Acts scheduled to perform at the festival include: ATTACKER, ELIXIR, METAL INQUISITOR, SOLITAIRE, CONQUESTADOR.
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| 20 August 2004
OCCULT are currently working on new material and will enter Germany’s Stage One Studios this October to begin recording their 6th album, working title "Malevolent Rapture", with master engineer Andy Classen.
Working titles of tracks set to appear on the release include: ‘The Eye Of The Storm’, ‘Taste Of The Whip’, ‘Werewolf Corpse’, ‘Legion Of The Damned’ and ‘Lycanthrope’.
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| 20 August 2004
MORBID ANGEL frontman Steve Tucker has chosen to leave the band (again) and has been replaced by none other than Dave Vincent for their upcoming South American tour.
According to statements Vincent will remain in GENITORTURES and is only committed to MORBID ANGEL for these dates.
Tucker has issued the following statement regarding his departure:
“After many problems and much discussion with the people around me, the people I trust. I have decided it is necessary for me to step away from Morbid Angel. It has been a long trip with a lot of great shows and I have made many friends along the way. The Morbid Angel fans that not only excepted me ,but reveled in my being a part of the band, have been the greatest thing about my time in Morbid Angel, they are the reason I came back to the band.
There are many reasons for me leaving the band, personal reasons, musical reasons and very logical reasons. All of which will stay between me and the band . Morbid Angel existed many years before I came along and will for many more I am sure.
I have enjoyed playing with some great musicians and touring with some great bands and meeting some incredible people all over the world. To all these people I say "Thank You" and we will meet again.
I am not done with the music business by any means, I will now be moving into other areas of the business, things I have always enjoyed, but didn't have time for. I will be moving into much more recording ,production and management, so any bands interested in working with me, feel free to contact me at hewhosleeps@hotmail.com .
Again, thank you to all of the fans for 8 years of making my hour and a half of stage time so brilliant!!! Tucker“
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| 13 August 2004
ARCHETYPE (see LINKS) has finally filled the vocalist and second lead guitar position! "We would like to welcomes Les Paul as the new vocalist and Stacy Donahue on guitar. It's been a very long time since we have been a complete five piece and we look forward to finishing our new cd and playing live once again. Keep an eye on the website for updates about the new members, recording and future gigs."
Chris Matyus
Archetype
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| 13 August 2004
CHASTAIN's new Cd "In An Outrage" has just been released on Leviathan Records in the states, Toshiba-EMI in Japan, and will be out later this month on Massacre in Europe.
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| 13 August 2004
Dave Grohl (Nirvana, Foo Fighters, Probot) has agreed to play drums on the next TROUBLE studio longplayer – meanwhile, the planned unplugged EP ‘Simple Mind Condition’ continues to be delayed
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| 13 August 2004
The first single from WITHIN TEMPTATION's long-awaited follow-up to 2000's "Mother Earth" will be a track called "Stand My Ground", according to a posting on the band's web site. The as-yet-untitled album is tentatively due this fall. No further information is currently available.
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| 13 August 2004
Former MARDUK members Legion (a.k.a. Erik Hagsted, vocals) and B.War (bass) will be joining forces with guitarist Jim Durkin (DREAMS OF DAMNATION, ex-DARK ANGEL) in a new death metal project. The band, which will be based out of Los Angeles, is "only a recording project, on paper at this point," Durkin told. "I wrote a song for them, but we have not done anything yet. I look forward to making music with them. But my main focus is and always has been DREAMS OF DAMNATION. Everything revolves around DREAMS OF DAMNATION for me."
A name for the group has not yet been determined. B.War quit MARDUK earlier this year to move to Los Angeles (from Sweden) to be with his family. Legion and his family will also be relocating to Los Angeles later this year.
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| 13 August 2004
Holland's Karmageddon Media (formerly Hammerheart Records) has announced plans to issue another collection of early demo recordings by late DEATH/CONTROL DENIED mastermind Chuck Schuldiner. Entitled "Zero Tolerance II", the CD will reported contain DEATH's first demo, "Death by Metal" (recorded in 1984 under the group's original name, MANTAS) and the follow-up recording, "Reign of Terror", also recorded in 1984. As a bonus, the collection will feature a DEATH live show recorded at the After Dark club in Texas during the "Spiritual Healing" tour in 1990, "with a lot of real and cool things happening during the show," according to a statement from Karmageddon. "And so far there is no cool live recording available from those early days…"
With regards to the status of the incomplete sophomore CD from CONTROL DENIED, Karmageddon said, "Maybe ask the Schuldiner family about that, we simply do not know and they still refuse to tell us, sad enough."
"Zero Tolerance", issued earlier this year through Karmageddon Media, featured DEATH's "Infernal Death" (1985) and "Mutilation" (1986) demos alongside previously unreleased demo recordings from CONTROL DENIED.
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| 13 August 2004
The Canadian extreme metallers CRYPTOPSY are working on a new studio album. According to an update at their web site: "The band will spend three days at Wild Studio in St-Zenon, Quebec next week (August 6-8) working on the pre-production for the fifth studio album tentatively due in early 2005. Producing the effort will be Pierre Remillard, who has previously worked on None So Vile (1995), Whisper Supremacy (1998), And Then You'll Beg (2000) and None So Live (2003)."
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| 13 August 2004
Work on SUN CAGED bassist Robert van der Loo's solo project FREAK NEIL INC. is almost complete. The album, entitled "Characters", is presently being mastered. Performers on the album include (in order of appearance):
Vocalists: André Vuurboom (ex-Sun Caged, ex-IMPERIUM), Irene Jansen (STAR ONE/AYREON), Arjen Anthony Lucassen (Star One/Ayreon), and Nick Hameury (ENGINE OF PAIN, ex-FIFTH).
Instrumentalists: Rob van der Loo (all fretted/fretless) basses, stick & many more), Roel van Helden (drums & percussion).
Soloists: Chris Godin (GNO/guitar), Ron Baggerman (GALAXY GYPSY/Chapman stick), Sean Malone (GORDIAN KNOT, CYNIC/fretless bass), Joost van den Broek (ex-Sun Caged, AFTER FOREVER, Star One, Ayreon/keys and synth), James Murphy (DEATH, OBITUARY/guitar), Steve DiGiorgio (TESTAMENT/fretless bass), Marcel Coenen (guitar).
The music will reportedly be quite different from the prog metal sounds of Sun Caged. Audio samples will be made available in the coming weeks.
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| 13 August 2004
HELLOWEEN recently left Nuclear Blast after only two albums. The band, it can be revealed, has since signed to SPV. According to guitarist Michael Weikath:
“Yes, we have left Nuclear Blast. The business department of Nuclear Blast is responsible to EastWest, and someone at EastWest wasn’t happy with the figures so they offered us a new deal. We weren’t happy with the offer because it wasn’t much different from other deals we’ve seen before, so there was a lot of back and forth. We like the people at Nuclear Blast, but they came up with a deal that is tailor made for a typical German band that sells a lot of records in Germany but not abroad. They wanted to cut our percentages from foreign countries, but Helloween actually sells more in foreign countries than in Germany. A run-of-the-mill contract isn’t for us. SPV gave us a great offer so we took it.”
Weikath has revealed that the next Helloween album might be "Keeper Of The Seven Keys Part III", but he makes no promises.
“We’re going to start rehearsals for the new album in October, and we’re going to try to do a Keeper III because we have a very good line-up now, where the vibe and spirit in the band is very similar to how it was when we did the Keeper I and II. It’s going to be fun to try it, anyway, but if the idea doesn’t come along as much as we expect it to, or the vibe isn’t right, we certainly won’t call the album Keeper III.”
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| 13 August 2004
MARDUK is currently in the studio recording the new album. The album will be followed by a massive world tour that will start in December.
The tour will proceed under the moniker "DeathMarch 2004/2005". The European tour will be divided in two parts, the first in December and the second part during spring 2005.
Confirmed dates for the tour so far include:
December
5 at La Locomotive in Paris, France
6 at Zeche Carl in Essen, Germany
7 at Hyde Park in Osnabruck, Germany
8 at Halford in Berlin, Germany
9 at Lucerna Music in Prague, Czech Republic
10 at Hellraiser in Engelsdorf, Germany
11 at Planet Music in Wien, Austria
12 at Haffen in Innsbruck, Austria
13 at Transilvania in Milan, Italy
14 at Z7 in Pratteln, Switzerland
15 at Rockfabrik in Ludwigsburg, Germany
16 at Live Arena in Munster (Breitefeld), Germany
17 at La Laiterie in Strasbourg, France
18 at Hof Ter Loo in Antwerpen, Belgium
19 at 013 in Tilburg, Netherlands
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| 13 August 2004
EVERGREY is preparing to record a live DVD. Bassist Michael Hakansson has posted the following message, addressed to their fans:
"Greetings Clan Members,
On the 9th of October we will record our first Live DVD here in Gothenburg. We will for sure make this is a night to remember. It will be the most glorious thing in Evergrey history and we feel that we want to have all of you there to help us make this night perfect. So all of you people from outside of Sweden who want to attend this special night, send an email to me with the subject DVD and you will be put on a special guestlist for the show.
Stay Grey and we'll see you on October 9th!!!"
Contact Hakansson at: michael@evergrey.net.

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| 6 August 2004
German progsters SIEGES EVEN got back together earlier this year following a seven year break to headline the Headway Festival in Holland. In light of the rave reviews the band decided to make the reunion official and began working on a new album entitled "The Art Of Navigating By The Stars". The album is said to conists of one song 45 – 50 minutes in length, the individual movements linked by musical interludes.
The band line-up consists of Oliver Holzwarth (bass), Markus Steffen (guitars), Alex Holzwarth (drums/RHAPSODY) and new singer Arno Menses. Sieges Even will play their first "official" reunion show on October 28th at Nachtleben in Frankfurt, Germany.
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| 6 August 2004
MASTER will be touring with OBITUARY beginning on October 8th-24th in Europe.
Its called "The Legends are Back Tour". More info will follow soon.....
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| 6 August 2004
SYMPHONY X are "currently splitting time between writing material for the new CD (due out in 2005 through InsideOut), and some solo project work.
Mike Pinnella's (keyboardist) solo CD is just about complete, and Russell Allen's (singer) solo CD is currently being recorded.
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| 6 August 2004
Century Media is releasing a 2CD best of collection from ICED EARTH called "The Blessed And The Damned" on August 10th in North America. The collection is out now in Europe.
The album features 23 remastered tracks (over two hours of material) with two different album covers.
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| 6 August 2004
Dutch thrashers OUTBURST will enter Double Noise studio in Tilburg, Holland later this month with producer Jochem Jacobs (TEXTURES, HIDING WITH GIRL) to record their first full-length album with the working title "From Hell". The band, who are unsigned, are currently in talks with interested parties to release the CD in late 2004/early 2005.
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| 6 August 2004
SPV Records has pushed back the release date of METAL CHURCH's new album, "The Weight Of The World", to September 28, 2004 (USA) and September 29, 2004 (Europe) in order to more heavily promote the CD, according to a posting at the group's web site. "The band's management is very pleased with how well METAL CHURCH was received on the road, and while waiting an extra two months for the album release wasn't in the original plan, having their support and promotion behind us will help get METAL CHURCH into more venues worldwide."
METAL CHURCH's current lineup consists of guitarists Kurdt Vanderhoof and Jay Reynolds (ex-MALICE), vocalist Ronny Munroe (ex-ROTTWEILLER), drummer Kirk Arrington and bassist Steve Unger.
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| 6 August 2004
Dutch death metallers HOUWITSER have officially split up after a sever-year run that produced four full-length albums. Drummer Aad Kloosterwaard and guitarist Alex are starting a new band called NO FACE SLAVE while bassist Theo Van Eekelen and vocalist Stan are said to be working on their own projects.
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| 6 August 2004
LABYRINTH guitarist Pier Gonella has signed with Scarlet Records for his side project, ODYSSEA. His debut album, "Tears In Floods", is due to be released in October. For more information go to this location.
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| 6 August 2004
NEVERMORE will embark on an US tour in September/October.
Following the US dates the band will hit the studio with producer Andy Sneap to record their next studio album, due for release through Century Media in spring, 2005.
Following the recording sessions, Nevermore will be back in the UK to make up for the dates that were canceled this summer
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| 6 August 2004
EXCITER have announced the following European tour dates in support of their latest release, "New Testament - Coven Of Rerecorded Classics".
Confirmed dates for the European trek include:
October
8 - Osnabruck, Germany at N8
9 - Tilburg, Netherlands at O13
10 - Zaandam, Netherlands at Kade
11 - Essen, Germany at Zeche Carl
12 - Berlin, Germany at K17
13 - Trier, Germany at ExHaus
14 - Heidelberg, Germany at Schwimmbad Musikclub
15 - TBA, Italy
16 - Winterthur/Zurich, Switzerland at Alte Kaserne
17 - Vosselaar, Belgium at Biebob
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| 6 August 2004
Producer Chris Tsangarides has agreed to produce the upcoming WINTERS BANE album. Tsangarides is known for his work with JUDAS PRIEST, THIN LIZZY, Yngwie malmsteen, Bruce Dickinson, HELLOWEEN, ANGRA, and BLACK SABBATH. Recording will begin this month at studio, The Dump, in the UK.
The new album, featuring POWERGOD singer Alex Koch and former Helloween drummer Mark Cross, is due to be released in early 2005. Song titles include ‘Dice With Death’, ‘Seal The Light’ and ‘Glory’.
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| 6 August 2004
BEHEMOTH's forthcoming DVD, "Crush Fukk Create (Requiem For Generation Armageddon)" is due out through Regain Records/The End Records on September 6th.
The complete DVD track listing is as follows:
DVD 1 - Live Pandemonium - Live At Party San Festival 2003: 'Antichristian Phenomenon', 'From the Pagan Vastlands', 'Heru Ra Ha (Let There Be Might)', 'Christians To The Lions', 'Hekau 718', 'No Sympathy For Fools', 'Decade Ov Therion', 'As Above So Below', 'Chant For Eskhaton 2000', 'Pure Evil And Hate'.
Mother Khaoz on Stage - Live At Mystic Festival 2001: 'Christians To The Lions', 'Decade Ov Therion', 'From The Pagan Vastlands', 'Antichristian Phenomenon', 'LAM', 'Satans Sword', 'Chant For Eskhaton'.
Videoclips: 'As Above As Below', 'Christians To The Lions'
DVD 2 - Speak With The Devil Documentary featuring interview and introduction to the following chapters by Nergal: The past is like a funeral..., X mass festivals, Italian affair, First headlining experience, Poland, Barbarossa east tour, Mexican episode, European crusade, Album production and studio scenes, Conquering US and other material.
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| 6 August 2004
KING DIAMOND will release their first official live album, "Deadly Lullabyes Live", on September 20th in Europe via Massacre Records. The release will be issued in North America through Metal Blade on September 21st. "Deadly Lullabyes Live" will be released in 2-CD, double Digipak and 3-LP editions. Earlier this month the band finished mixing and mastering the album with guitarist Andy La Rocque.
Tracks to appear on the release include: ‘Funeral’, ‘Mansion In Darkness’, ‘The Family Ghost’, ‘Black Horsemen’, ‘Spare This Life’, ‘Mansion In Sorrow’, ‘Spirits’, ‘Sorry Dear’, ‘Eye Of The Witch’, ‘Sleepless Nights’, ‘Puppetmaster’, ‘Blood To Walk’, ‘So Sad’, 'Living Dead' (Outro), ‘Welcome Home’, ‘Invisible Guest’, ‘Burn’, Introductions, ‘Halloween’ and ‘No Presents For Christmas’.
King stated recently, "The new double live album simply KICKS ASSSSSSS!!!! I don't think I have ever heard the old classic Diamond songs performed this well and this close to the originals. I speak for everyone when I say, that we have never had as much fun on stage as we had on this last tour, and it shows when you listen to the album.”
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| 30 July 2004
Locomotive Music will release a solo album from MAGO DE OZ vocalist JOSE ANDREAS, entitled "Donde El Corazon Te Lleve" (Where The Heart Takes You), on August 3rd.
The ballad filled album includes Spanish renditions of 'Heaven' (BRYAN ADAMS), 'Always Somewhere' (SCORPIONS), 'Soldier Of Fortune' (DEEP PURPLE), 'Stone Cold' (RAINBOW), 'High Enough' (DAMN YANKEES), plus many others.
Jose Andreas is joined by the rest of Mago De Oz on several tracks on Donde El Corazon Te Lleve, while fellow Locomotive label mates assist as well.
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| 30 July 2004
JAG PANZER just finished the work on their 8th studio album. "Casting The Stones" will be released end of September through Century Media Records, just some month after their current record, the first official release of the legendary "Chain Of Command" album which was originally recorded in 1988.
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| 30 July 2004
Long-running Austrian extreme metallers PUNGENT STENCH have completed work on their new album, "Ampeauty", due on September 6 through Nuclear Blast Records.
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| 30 July 2004
BALLISTIC mainman Tom Gattis (ex-DEUCE, TENSION, WARDOG) has posted the following message on the band's official web site (see LINKS):
"Well, we're in writing mode big time, got a song called 'Sonic Massacre' that will hit harder and faster than Blaze Bailey's well deserved black eye. The children are turning out heavier and darker than the last CD, at least I think they are (most of the riffs I can't play….yet). But life is back to normal here in Phoenix, eating steak, pumping iron, drinking beer, and kicking major ass. Our resident U.F.C. champ Tony [Taylor, TWISTED TOWER DIRE, ISEN TORR, OCTOBER 31] is ready to get going on the vocals and soon I'll be handing our little bundles of love over to him to finish off the job of throttling the life out of them (or into them?). We can hardly wait to get back to jam for the fans that made our European trip so killer. Next time though we'll need proof of life insurance to get in…. Bring your O2."
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| 30 July 2004
SEVEN WITCHES has announced their new drummer, Jeff Currenton, a veteran of the Northeast Ohio scene, including a stint in WINTERS BANE.
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| 30 July 2004
KATAKLYSM’s official website (see LINKS) has posted the confirmed dates for the band’s upcoming European tour with GRAVEWORM, MYSTIC CIRCLE and INTO ETERNITY
Confirmed dates for the trek include:
October
2 at Biebob in Vosselaar, Belgium
4 at Rio’s in Bradford, UK
5 at Underworld in London, UK
6 at Zeche Carl in Essen, Germany
8 at Alte Spinerei in Clauchau, Germany
9 at Mir Club in Uherske Hradiste, Czech Republic
10 at Kultiplex in Budapest, Hungary
15 at Planet Music in Wien, Austria
16 at Rockhose in Salzburg, Austria
17 at Hafen in Innsbruck, Austria
25 at La Locomotive in Paris, France
More dates will be announced soon.
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| 30 July 2004
ProgPower festival Europe (see LINKS) have announced the two bands that will "play in the basement during the diner break" at this year's event, scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 2nd and Sunday, October 3rd at JC Sjiwa in Baarlo, The Netherlands.
The bands are two upcoming Dutch bands: S.O.T.E and IN TENSION. Both bands will play a set of approximately 50 minutes, S.O.T.E. will play on Saturday October 2, In Tension on Sunday. October 3. Advance weekend tickets are on sale via ProgPower's website (www.progpower.com) for €40.
The complete ProgPower Europe VI line-up is as follows:
Saturday, October 2
DEVIN TOWNSEND 21.30 - 23.00 hrs
ALCHMIST 19.55 - 20.55 hrs
ADAGIO 18.30 - 19.30 hrs
PLATITUDE 16.25 - 17.25 hrs
ALL TOO HUMAN 15.05 - 16.00 hrs
THE DUST CONNECTION 13.45 - 14.40 hrs
S.O.T.E. 17.30 - 18.25 hrs
(during the diner-break in the basement)
Sunday, October 3
THE GATHERING 21.30 - 23.00 hrs
KATATONIA 19.55 - 20.55 hrs
SYMPHORCE 18.30 - 19.30 hrs
AMARAN 16.25 - 17.25 hrs
TOMORROW'S EVE 15.05 - 16.00 hrs
NOVACT 13.45 - 14.40 hrs
IN TENSION 17.30 - 18.25 hrs
(during the diner-break in the basement)
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| 30 July 2004
Holland-based prog metallers SUN CAGED have posted the following message on their website:
"After several auditions we can announce the new keyboard player for Sun Caged. The new man is Rene Kroon, better known to some people as "Pingel". Rene is a very good player with a lot of technical abilities, and he managed to figure out the audition songs with no errors. Also his sounds came very close to the original sounds Joost (Van Den Broek) used on the CD. We welcome Rene in the Sun Caged camp!! A new singer has not been found yet, but auditions are still going on, so we hope to announce the new singer also soon."
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| 30 July 2004
IRON MAIDEN frontman BRUCE DICKINSON and legendary producer Roy Z have recorded a full length album for a possible release in 2005.
No other details are available at this time.
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| 30 July 2004
LOUDNESS singer Minoru Niihara reports that the band has re-recorded an album’s worth of Loudness classics. According to Niihara, songs were selected from the band’s first five albums – "Birthday Eve", "Devil Soldier", "Law Of Devil’s Land", "Disillusion" and "Thunder In The East" – as chosen by the fans, who voted via the official Loudness website.
The track list (in no particular order) is as follows: ‘Crazy Night’, ‘Rock Shock (More And More)’, ‘Esper’, ‘Like Hell’, ‘The Lines Are Down’, ‘Angel Dust’, ‘Loudness’, ‘In The Mirror’, ‘Lonely Player’, ‘Crazy Doctor’, ‘Milky Way’. ‘Street Woman’ and ‘Mr. Yes Man’.
The as-yet-untitled album will be released in October through Tokuma Communications.
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| 30 July 2004
THE HAUNTED have officially revealed that their new album will be called "rEVOLVEr" and will be issued on October 18th via Century Media.
The album will feature the following tracklisting: ‘No Compromise’, ‘99’, ‘Abysmal’, ‘Sabotage’, ‘All Against All’, ‘Sweet Relief’, ‘Burnt To A Shell’, ‘Who Will Decide’, ‘Nothing Right’, ‘Liquid Burns’ and ‘My Shadow’.
The album will be released as jewel case CD and limited edition digipak with two special bonus tracks, each with a different cover artwork.
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| 30 July 2004
ANGTORIA, featuring CRADLE OF FILTH vocalist Sarah Jezebel Deva, Tommy Rehn from MOAHNI MOAHNA and Chris Rehn from ABYSSOS, have completed a five song demo and are currently shopping around for a deal.
The demo track list is as follows: ‘Six Feet Under’, ‘Confide In Me’, ‘Little Girl’, ‘Deity Of Disgust’ and ‘I Cried Alone’.
The new website has been launched at this location
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| 23 July 2004
JUDAS PRIEST have set a December 28 release date through Epic Records for their first studio album with singer Rob Halford since 1990's "Painkiller". "The band and I had meetings with our new label Epic (Sony) when we were in New York," PRIEST Management Co-ordinator Jayne Andrews writes on the group's web site. "Their support and enthusiasm was great — we really look forward to working with them all. A world tour will be following starting early in 2005."
JUDAS PRIEST lately filmed their show in Barcelona, Spain last month for an upcoming live DVD, tentatively due in 2005. No further information is currently available.
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| 23 July 2004
AFTER DEATH featuring (ex-NOCTURNUS/ ex-MORBID ANGEL) Mike Browning have revealed through their official website (see LINKS) that they have completed work on their new demo CD, "Reviving The Gods", which was produced by Jon Oliva (SAVATAGE).
The site currently has a sample from the demo available. Check out the track ‘Astral Staircase’ overthere.
The band have issued the following commentary on the track: “The astral plane is contained within the Magician's Universal Mind. One must find their Own Key to open that internal door. My personal Key is balance or the averse five pointed star interwoven with the six pointed star. All light and dark balanced as one. The more elaborate a Magician's mind is on the inner planes, and how it effects the outer world, can only be answered by another question, SANE OR INSANE?”
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| 23 July 2004
BEHEMOTH, INCANTATION, KRISIUN, RAGNAROK are hitting the road in Europe this fall on the Clash Of Demigods European Tour 2004.
Confirmed dates are as follows:
October
21 - Tilburg, Netherlands at 013
22 - Groningen, Netherlands at Vera
23 - Vosselaar, Belgium at Biebob
24 - Paris, France at Locomotive
25 - London, UK at Underworld
26 - Dublin, Ireland at Whelans
27 - Essen, Germany at Zeche Carl
28 - Osnabruck, Germany at N8
29 - Trier, Germany at Exil
November
1 - Essen, Germany at Zeche Carl
3 - Goteborg, Sweden at Musik Hus
4 - Oslo, Norway at John Dee
5 - Bergen, Norway at Garage
6 - Sandnes, Norway at Tribute
12 - Barcelona, SPA at Mephisto
13 - Madrid, Spain at Ritmo & Compass
14 - Irun, Spain at Tunk
More dates will follow soon.
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| 23 July 2004
CONFESSOR have issued the following update via their official website:
“Cheers everyone! We just wanted to let you know that we have loaded another track entitled ‘Hibernation’ on our website. This is another track from the demo we recently recorded and are currently shopping to labels. We encourage you to listen and give us some feedback on the song by e-mailing us from the website. Please visit the site at www.confessorband.com and check it out!!!!”
‘Hibernation’ can be found in the “Music” section of the band’s website (see LINKS)
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| 23 July 2004
DISSECTION (www.dissection.nu) are currently in the studio with a full line-up, working on their first studio recording since 1995's classic album "Storm Of The Light's Bane". The first single and video is scheduled for release in September 2004.
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| 23 July 2004
GWAR have set October 26th as the release date for their forthcoming album through DRT Entertainment (Flash site). A full US tour will follow.
DRT will also be re-issuing GWAR’s debut album "Hell-O" and the classic follow-up "Scumdogs Of The Universe" as a specially packaged double CD on August 3.
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| 23 July 2004
InsideOut, record label to Arjen Lucassen's AYREON and STAR ONE projects, has announced that it will be re-releasing all pre-label Ayreon albums, formerly on Dutch label Transmission. The albums will be re-released in reverse order, starting with The Universal Migrator Parts 1 and 2 on July 26th.
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| 18 July 2004
According to a recent press release, at the forthcoming Keep It True III Festival (see LINKS), German metal legends STORMWITCH will play a "very special old school show with concentrating mainly on the early albums. In addition to that they will also have a similar stageshow like they had in the eighties with many actors on stage.
Keep It True III Festival is scheduled for November 6th at Lauda-Konigshofen, Germany at Tauberfrankenhalle. Other confirmed acts include: DISTANT THUNDER, HELSTAR, HALLOWS EVE, TYRANTS REIGN, JAGUAR, SACRED STEEL, WITCHFYNDE, ROTTWEILLER, METAL INQUISITOR, STORMWITCH, REPENT.
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| 18 July 2004
Belgian prog band 7th CIRCLE finally found a new drummer: "7th Circle is proud to present their new drummer! His name is Dirk and has studied jazz-studio in Antwerp. A well-talented drummer and a fine dude! A real asset to 7th Circle, that is getting prepared to record their second full-CD during the fall of 2004. With Dirk, that is. Keep an eye on their website (see LINKS) for more news!
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| 18 July 2004
SLAYER filmed their July 11 show in Augusta, Maine for an upcoming live DVD "Reign in Blood Live: Still Reigning". The disc will feature a full performance of the 1986 album "Reign in Blood" by all original members of the thrash metal outfit. The DVD, due on September 28, will have an approximate 75-minute running time.
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| 18 July 2004
A new ARMORED SAINT album is pushed back to somewhere in 2005. John Bush is still too busy with ANTHRAX right now.
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| 18 July 2004
Dutch heavy/traditional metal band GODDESS OF DESIRE will enter the studio later this year to record their fourth album, entitled "Awaken Pagan Gods", tentatively due late 2004/early 2005 through an as-yet-undetermined label.
The band's pre-production recordings for the new album, which were completed at former HAMMERHAWK guitarist Paul van Rijswijk's studio in IJmuiden, the Netherlands, can currently be heard at the group's official web site (see LINKS). Cover artwork for the CD will be handled by Frans Mensink, who also drew the covers for the band's first three albums
Currently unsigned, GODDESS OF DESIRE hope to land a suitable record deal before the end of the year.
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| 18 July 2004
Long-running Dutch death metal band THANATOS have accused the now-defunct German anarcho-ravers ATARI TEENAGE RIOT of sampling a riff from one of their songs without giving proper credit. According to THANATOS, the ATARI TEENAGE RIOT track "Into the Death", which appeared on their 1996 release "Delete Yourself", contains the main riff from THANATOS' "Bodily Dismemberment", which was originally recorded for the group's 1990 album, "Emerging From The Netherworlds". "We don't know whether we should be honored or upset about a well-known band as ATARI TEENAGE RIOT 'borrowing' one of our riffs," the band write. "Guess they cannot come up with any proper ideas themselves…"
THANATOS' fourth full-length album, "Undead. Unholy. Divine", has just been released through Greece's Black Lotus Records The follow-up to 2000's "Angelic Encounters", "Undead. Unholy. Divine" was produced by Hans Pieters and the band at Excess studios in Rotterdam, Holland and was mastered by Attie Bauw (JUDAS PRIEST, SCORPIONS, GOREFEST). The CD cover features a "great painting" by famous Polish artist Jacek Wisniewski. Additional artwork was done by Seth and Don Marco de Bruin. The album includes a guest appearance on backing vocals by Ashmedi (MELECHESH) and Ed Warby (STAR ONE, AYREON, ex-GOREFEST).
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| 18 July 2004
Former DEEP PURPLE/BLACK SABBATH singer Glenn Hughes will release a double audio CD and a single-disc DVD, entitled "Soulfully Live In The City Of Angels", on September 20 through Frontiers Records (Marquee/Avalon in Japan and Hellion Records in Brazil).
"Soulfully Live In The City Of Angels" was shot live on January 11, 2004 before an audience of friends and selected regulars at www.glennhughes.com.
Those privileged enough to have graced the soiree in the intimate setting at Sound Image studio in North Hollywood, California witnessed the bassist/vocalist's current band of longtime guitarist JJ Marsh and keyboard player Ed Roth being swelled by none other than RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS drummer Chad Smith.
Helping out on backing vocals are former QUIET RIOT singer Kevin DuBrow and ex-SANTANA man Alex Ligertwood, with second guitarist George Nastos doubling up where appropriate.
The repertoire is balanced between latter-day choices like "Written All Over Your Face", "Higher Places (Song For Bonzo)", "Wherever You Go" and "Can’t Stop The Flood" and the trusted crowd-pleasers. This includes selections from TRAPEZE ("Seafull" and "Medusa"), HUGHES/THRALL ("First Step Of Love") and of course DEEP PURPLE ("Mistreated", "Getting' Tighter" and "You Keep On Movin'").
"I'm happy again and of course I love being up there on stage. You've got to see Glenn Hughes on the boards to really understand him," Hughes said in a press release. "I'm so excited that rock in general is coming again into a good head of steam and I also feel really good about where I am personally."
Final track listing of the double live CD is as follows:
CD1:
01. Can't Stop the Flood
02. Higher Places
03. Written All Over Your Face
04. Medusa
05. Wherever You Go
06. Seafull
CD2:
01. Coast to Coast
02. First Step Of Love
03. Mistreated
04. Gettin’ Tighter
05. You Keep On Moving
06. The Healer (bonus studio track)
07. Change (bonus European studio track)
The DVD has the same tracklisting and adds an insightful interview with Glenn Hughes plus a special picture gallery.
Both the CD and the DVD will come out in the first pressing with a limited and specially packaged cardboard edition.
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| 18 July 2004
VICIOUS RUMORS has signed a multi-album deal with Mascot Records of Holland. The first release will be a DVD entitled, "Crushing the World - Part One". The DVD features festival & tour footage of the current Vicious Rumors line-up performing 8 classic songs from the early years of Vicious Rumors as well as a rare clip of the classic Vicious Rumors line-up with Carl Albert from the Marquee Club and Mexico City in 1988. The DVD will also have the 4 MTV videos from the early 90's as a special feature. There will also be 3 brand new unreleased tracks. The DVD will be released mid to late 2004 and will be followed up with a brand new studio album.
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| 18 July 2004
Florida death metal band DEICIDE have re-signed with Earache Records for a worldwide 2-album deal. After witnessing Earache's results with Scars Of The Crucifix, the band have decided to extend their relationship with the label for two more albums. Earache's Al Dawson had this to say about the resigning, "Deicide are a great band who have stood the test of time. They're super cool guys and we're psyched to continue working with them." Deicide's Brian Hoffman declared: "I am very happy to be on the best death metal label there is."
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| 18 July 2004
The upcoming CHILDREN OF BODOM EP "Trashed, Lost & Strungout" has been pushed back to September, although no reasons have been given for the delay. It will include cover versions of Alice Cooper’s ‘Bed Of Nails’ and Andrew W.K.’s ‘She Is Beautiful’. It will also include the title track, a live version and video of ‘Trashed, Lost & Strungout’, and a second new tune called ‘Knuckleduster’.
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| 18 July 2004
CIRCLE II CIRCLE, featuring former SAVATAGE singer Zak Stevens, has finished pre-production for their much anticipated second album at Cabin Fever Studios in Brooksville, Florida. They are now set to begin the real work.
The first single will be released by the end of the summer, with the full album set for October or November.
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| 18 July 2004
AFM Records has confirmed the end of January 2005 as the release date for the upcoming MASTERPLAN album, featuring singer Jorn Lande and former HELLOWEEN members Roland Grapow (guitars) and Uli Kusch (drums).
"After 8 month of songwriting Masterplan is ready to record the second album. "We are really happy and proud of the new material!" The new CD will contain about 11 songs. This time all bandmembers appeared as songwriters. Songwriting took place in Hamburg, Aachen, Los Angeles, Slovakia and Norway. Roy Z. was helping as a good friend and for a couple of songs he was an "inspirator / arranger". Once again Andy Sneap and Masterplan are producing the new Album together in the "Crazy Cat" Studio in Hamburg. The mixing will be done at "Finnvox Studios" in Helsinki by Mikko Karmila. Mastering by Mika Jussila. The album is scheduled to be released in the end of January 2005 through AFM Records. To while away the time it will be available an EP to a low single price in October 2004".
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| 18 July 2004
FORCE OF EVIL, the band featuring vocalist Martin Steene (IRONFIRE), guitarist Michael Denner (MERCYFUL FATE), guitarist Hank Shermann (MERCYFUL FATE), bassist Hal Patino (KING DIAMOND) and drummer Bjarne Holm, plan to enter the studio in September to begin recording their next studio album, due out in Europe through Escapi in early 2005.
The band have written 21 songs that they will choose from for the new album and had previously commented on the new tracks, stating, “They really sound raw and it seems that we have gone in the direction of more brutality with everything at 11:-)”
In related news, Force Of Evil plan to be on the 2005 festival circuit in support of the forthcoming new album. Their tour plans will also include some North American dates.
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| 18 July 2004
Vocalist LANA LANE and keyboard wiz ERIK NORLANDER (MARK BOALS, Lana Lane) will be on tour in Europe this fall. Norlander is part of Lana Lane’s touring/recording band, and will also perform a solo date as part of this tour.
The dates for the tour are as follows:
September
11 at Theatre Graaf Wichman in Huizen, Netherlands (Erik Norlander solo)
17 at Het Kasteel in Alphen a/d Rijn, Netherlands
18 at Herrington Leisure Centre in Rotherham, UK
21 at In den Gekroonden Hoed in Elshout, Netherlands
23 at Markthalle in Hamburg, Germany (International Uriah Heep Convention)
29 at Spirit Of 66 in Verviers, Belgium
October
1 at Ritmo y Compas in Madrid, Spain
6 at Bergkeller Reinchenbach om Reichenbach/Vogtland, Germany
9 at P60, Podium voor Pop Cultuur en Media in Amstelveen, Netherlands
Lana Lane has just released two new titles in Europe through Frontiers Records, Storybook: Tales From Europe And Japan (DVD) and Return To Japan (2xCD).
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| 18 July 2004
Joe Stump has just signed a deal with Lion Music for his new record, "Speed Metal Messiah". Lion is a European based company and has an impressive roster of guitarists on it’s label, including James Byrd, George Bellas, Marcel Coenen, Alex Masi , Lars Eric Mattson, Rusty Cooley, Kelly Simonz, Ritchie Kotzen and Tony Macalpine.
"Speed Metal Messiah" will be released in September. Stump will be releasing two instructional DVDs in the upcoming months as well. Neo-Classical Guitar 1, which has already been shot and is being edited, will now feature some technique building exercises incorporating diatonic scale patterns and a six part neo-classical workout with each section demonstrating a different technique (scale patterns, multi string arpeggios, single string picking phrases, rhythm playing, etc). The second disc, Advanced Neo-Classical Guitar, will be loaded with many transcriptions to some of Stump’s most demanding works as well as a ton of other Baroque induced fret frying. Both DVDs will feature lengthy guitar cadenzas as well as several full tunes with Joe playing with various backing tracks. Also included in the performance tracks will be several tunes from "Speed Metal Messiah".
Stump has also been busy contributing guitar work on ex-VIRGIN STEELE guitarist Jack Starr’s new album, which is being produced by MANOWAR bassist Joey DeMaio for Magic Circle Music. The album will be released through SPV.
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| 18 July 2004
Tad Leger (ex- TOXIK) posted the following message:
"After Toxik, I joined BLACKENED SKY. An extreme metal band with influences ranging from DEATH, VOIVOD, MOTORHEAD and BLACK SABBATH.
We are releasing a 2 disc release, featuring both demos and some unreleased extras digitally remastered from the original source tapes. Disc two is a DVD containing nearly two hours of video, featuring live shows, rehearsals and even footage of the recording of the ‘Teratoma’ demo.
More info coming soon on blackendsky.com, which should be up in September.
Hail Metal!! Tad Leger.”
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| 18 July 2004
IMMOLATION are currently finishing the last subtle touches on the new material for their upcoming full length album, to be recorded with engineer Paul Oforino at Yes Masters studios in New York in August.
Immolation guitarist Robert Vigna has stated that “the new songs have come along great and will be the most shocking and intense material the band has ever unleashed.”
Originally scheduled for a end of 2004 release, the album release will be postponed until early 2005. Watch out for a new mp3 song in fall/winter.
In related news, the band will release a new DVD, "Bringing Down The World Tour", in August. Also, an obscure CD release gathering all the band's demos prior to their Metal Blade period should finally see the light of the day this winter through Listenable.
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| 18 July 2004
Southern Lord Recordings (www.southernlord.com) have announced that they will soon reissue the classic SAINT VITUS album, "V", in an enhanced CD format.
Says the label, “It is with great honor that we are re-releasing the doom-metal classic V by the legendary Saint Vitus (featuring the classic Vitus lineup of: Wino, Dave Chandler, Armando Acosta, and Mark Adams).
"Besides the classic album we have added a bonus video of Wino’s very first show with Vitus! It not just one song its the entire show!! This new and doomed version of V is an essential chapter in (Doom)-Metal history".
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| 18 July 2004
The European X-Mass Metalfest 2004 tour will kick off on December 5th and run through December 19th.
Acts featured on the tour include: MARDUK, NAPALM DEATH, FINNTROLL, VADER, BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, BELPHEGOR.
Confirmed dates for the tour include:
December
5 - Paris, France at La Locomotive
6 - Essen, Germany at Zeche Carl
7 - Osnabruck, Germany at Hyde Park
8 - Berlin, Germany at Halford
9 - Prague, Czech Republic at Lucerna Music Club
10 - Engelsdorf, Germany at Hellraiser
11 - Wien, Austria at Planet Music
12 - Innsbruck, Austria at Hafen
13 - Milano, Italy at Transilvania
14 - Pratteln, Switzerland at Z7
15 - Ludwigsburg, Germany at Rock Fabrik
16 - Munster, Germany at Live Arena
17 - Strasbourg, France at La Laiterie
18 - Antwerpen, Belgium at Hof Ter Loo
19 - Tilburg, Netherlands at 013
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| 18 July 2004
NAPALM DEATH's "Leaders Not Followers: Part 2" is due out on October 5th in North America.
"Leaders Not Followers 2" will include the following covers: CRYPTIC SLAUGHTER - 'Lowlife', THE OFFENDERS - 'Face Down In The Dirt', DEVASTATION - 'Devastation', HELLHAMMER - 'Messiah', ANTI-CIMEX - 'Victims of a Bomb Raid', WEHRMACHT - 'Fright Night', DISCHARGE - 'War's No Fairytale', SIEGE - 'Conform', MASTER - 'Master', INSANITY - 'Fire Death Fate', KREATOR - 'Riot Of Violence', ANTI CIMEX - 'Game of the Arseholes', MASSACRE - 'Clangor Of War', ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT - 'Dope Fiend', DIE KREUZEN - 'I'm Tired', SEPULTURA - 'Troops of Doom', THE DAYGLO ABORTIONS - 'Bedtime Story', AGNOSTIC FRONT - 'Blind Justice', HIRAX - 'Hate, Fear and Power'.
As a bonus to long-time fans, and at the urging of long-time friend Shane Embury (bass), the band’s first bass player, Jim Whiteley, performs here on Discharge’s 'War’s No Fairytale' and Anti Cimex’s 'Game Of The Arseholes'.
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| 9 July 2004
GOD DETHRONED have replaced second guitar player Jens van der Valk with Isaac De La Haye. The band have also recruited new bass player Henk “Henke” Zinger (ex-GRINDMINDED). The new lineup is complete by guitarist/vocalist Henri Sattler and drummer Arien Van Weesenbeek. God Dethroned commence recording their new album next week together with HenrikLarsson at Berno Studios in Malmö, Sweden. The album, "The Lair Of The White Worm", will feature the following tracks: 'The Lair of the White Worm', 'Nihilism', 'Salt In Your Wounds', 'The Last Zip Of Spit', 'Loyal To The Crown Of God Dethroned', 'Rusty Nails', 'Sigma Enigma', 'Arch Enemy Spain' and one as-yet-untitled song.
According to a press release, "The album will be very diverse and the band will also shoot a video clip of the title track and film a studio report." The Lair Of The White Worm will be released in November, 2004 by Metal Blade.
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| 9 July 2004
Mark Cross (ex-HELLOWEEN, METALIUM) is the new drummer for WINTERS BANE, and will be performing on the band's upcoming album, to be released later this year. With Cross and vocalist Alexander Koch (ex-POWERGOD) joining founding members Lou St. Paul (guitars) and Dennis Hayes (bass), the band's lineup is now in place.
According to a press release, "The band is very confident that their new album will surpass the material on their classic Heart Of A Killer opus, which featured Tim Owens (ex-JUDAS PRIEST, ICED EARTH) on vocals. Winters Bane is currently in the studio, with rhythm guitars already finished and drum tracks to be recorded later this month.
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| 9 July 2004
Roadrunner Records have confirmed that CRADLE OF FILTH's forthcoming album, "Nymphetamine", will be released on September 28th. The band will shoot a video in either Los Angeles or the UK, at some point in early August for a song to be determined.
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| 9 July 2004
Former drummer Nick Menza has officially rejoined MEGADETH according to a posting by the skinsman at their official website (see LINKS).
"Yes, it's time to rock the globe once again," Menza announced. "After getting my head on straight and mending things up with the General [Mustaine], I'm very happy and excited to be back! I'm very grateful to all you droogies who supported my return. Thank you! You won't regret it. I am in the process of learning the new material. It totally jams! I am loving jammin' along with it. Can't wait to play it live. It's gonna crush! I don't have any favorite songs yet. I've only had the CD one week. I like them all. Thanx again, Menzanator."
Megadeth's new album, "The System Has Failed", is due for release on September 14 through Sanctuary Records.
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| 9 July 2004
DIO's "Master Of The Moon" album is now due out August 30th overseas via SPV (US date pending), instead of September as previously reported. The tracklisting has also been leaked: ' Master Of The Moon', 'Death By Love', 'I Am', 'The End Of The World', 'One More From The Road', 'Shivers', 'In Dreams', 'The Man Who Would Be King', 'Living A Lie', 'The Eyes'.
The touring lineup of the band will be Ronnie James Dio on vocals, Craig Goldy on guitar, Simon Wright on drums and Rudy Sarzo on bass. They are all considered permanent members at this point.
Upcoming Dio tour dates are as follows:
July
16 - Moscow, Russia at Luzhniki Hall
17 - St. Petersburg, Russia at Jubileny Arena
18 - Helsinki, Finland at Tuska Metalfest
20 - Gothenburg, Sweden at Tradgarden
21 - Karlskoga, Sweden at Kino
23 - Madrid, Spain at Macumba
24 - Pamplona, Spain at Sala Gares
25 - Barcelona, Spain at Razzmatazz
27 - Valencia, Spain at Sala Republicca
28 - TBA
29 - Zaragoza, Spain at Sala Oasis
31 - Vigo, Spain at Venue tbc
August
3 - Worgl, Austria at Komma
4 - Karlsruhe, Germany at Substage
5 - Nurnberg, Germany at Hirsch
6 - Wacken, Germany at Wacken Open Air
7 - Rijssen, Holland at Lucky
9 - Manchester, England at Academy
10 - Glasgow, Scotland at Barrowlands
12 - Birmingham, England at Academy
13 - Folkstone, England at Lees Cliff Hall
14 - London, England at Astoria
15 - Nottingham, England at Rock City
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| 9 July 2004
IRON MAIDEN drummer Nicko McBrain has a new band on the side called MCBRAIN DAMAGE. The line-up consists of Nicko on drums, Dave “The Beast” Spitz, formerly of BLACK SABBATH and GREAT WHITE (on bass), Jonathan Murphy (vocals), Rick Baum (guitar) from DEEPSET, and Chris Proano (guitar) from FAILSAFE. The band reportedly plays a set that consists of some of Maiden’s biggest hits and original material, all performed with full sound and lights.
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| 9 July 2004
ICED EARTH guitarist Ralph Santolla has officially left the group to join the SEBASTIAN BACH BAND. Santolla has issued the following statement with regards to the move:
"There are several reasons for this decision, and for the moment I will keep them to myself. The other guys [in Iced Earth] know my reasons, and hopefully this won't turn into a public pissing match. On the other hand, if it does, at least execution by musketry has gone out of style. I made some great friends, played some great, albeit difficult (!) metal tunes, and learned a lot from the experience. Whatever anyone else says about Jon [Schaffer], he IS a phenomenal rhythm guitarist.
"On a different note, I am the new lead guitarist for Sebastian Bach. We start playing July 22nd, and I can't wait. We'll do a new album later this year, so look for that, and I hope to see some of the cool people I met on tour with Iced Earth at some of these gigs. I am also in talks with Steve DiGiorgio [TESTAMENT, SADUS, ex-DEATH, CONTROL DENIED], Gene Hoglan [STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, DARK ANGEL, ex-DEATH], and Tom Englund from EVERGREY about making an epic, orchestral metal album called ex Cathedra. More on this later."
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| 9 July 2004
After a ten-year hiatus, Boston's thrash pioneers WARGASM (see LINKS) will reunite to unleash their unique brand of power metal on Saturday, September 18th at the Middle East Club in Cambridge, MA, USA.
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| 3 July 2004
JAG PANZER have been confirmed for the Bang Your Head Festival 2005 in Balingen, Germany (June 24th and 25th 2005).
This is the special 10-year anniverary show and will feature such acts as MOTORHEAD, TWISTED SISTER, DORO, GAMMA RAY, AXEL RUDI PELL, DESTRUCTION, AMON AMARTH, DEMON and NEVERMORE.
More info can be found at the festival website (see LINKS).
They will be joined by ten other popular acts plus one very special guest.
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| 3 July 2004
The running order for next weekend's Headbangers Open Air in Elmshorn, Germany (see LINKS) is now online:
Friday
15.00 SAVALLION DAWN
16.00 CRYSTAL SHARK
17.00 ROSAE CRUCIS
18.00 DARK AT DAWN
19.00 BATTLEROAR
20.00 TYR
21.00 Surprise-Band
22.00 INTRUDER
23.00 BROCAS HELM
24.00 HANKER
Saturday
12.00 METAL WITCH
13.00 ETERNAL REIGN
14.00 BLOODSTAINED
15.00 FORSAKEN
16.00 RITUAL STEEL
17.00 FIST
18.00 DESASTER
19.00 OVERDRIVE
20.00 ELEXIR
21.00 ADRAMELCH
22.00 VORTEX
23.00 BREAKER
24.00 HIRAX
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| 3 July 2004
Veteran German power metallers PARADOX have announced that they will not be able to proceed with the songwriting process for their new album due to "a serious sickness" suffered by frontman Charly Steinhauer. "Charly has composed about 30 minutes of great music last year but now couldn't go on," the band write on their web site. "At the moment he [is taking] a complete timeout and we will see when/if we will continue..."
Steinhauer, who had played guitar and sang in the group since their inception in the mid-'80s, had previously announced his decision to concentrate solely on guitar playing due to an unspecified medical condition. The band's last studio album, "Collision Course", was released in 2000 through AFM Records.
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| 3 July 2004
The new album of the death metal band GRAVE is almost finished. The album is titled "Fiendish Regression", was recorded at the Abyss Studios with bothers Tommy and Peter Tägtgren producing and it is scheduled for a September 7th release through Century Media Records.
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| 3 July 2004
DREAM THEATER are working on a live DVD and CD and Kevin Shirley (producer), posted the following update regarding the album and the personal album of John Petruci. "He is massively psyched, It's called "Suspended Animation", is 64 minutes long, has no keyboards or vocals on it, and it rocks pretty hard. At times, it throws up Steve Morse, Gary Moore and Jeff Beck stylings and he really shreds on it! Next week, I begin mixing a new Dream Theater DVD/CD project from their recent gig at the Budokan in Japan, so that should be fun - with budget constraints and the bands touring schedule we've got just over a week to mix the 3 hour plus show in both stereo and 5.1 surround sound. Something I think you DT fans have been wanting for awhile!"
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| 3 July 2004
This years Wacken Open Air festival in Germany, this year held August 6th and 7th, has announced the addition of four more acts: METHEDRAS, VANGUARD, ENGINE OF PAIN, HOBB'S ANGEL OF DEATH
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New running orders can be found on the festival website (see LINKS).
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| 3 July 2004
TWISTED SISTER's long awaited 25th Anniversary rerecording of their multi-million selling album "Stay Hungry" is set for a August 23rd release through Demolition Records. The CD retitled, "Still Hungry", is the first recordings by the reformed line up in over 12 years. The CD includes five bonus tracks: 'Hero's Are Hard To Find', 'Plastic Money', 'Come Back', 'You Know I Cry', 'Rock N Roll Saviors'.
The full track listings is as follows: 'Stay Hungry', 'We're Not Gonna Take It', 'Burn In Hell', 'Horror-Teria'/'Captain Howdy'/'Street Justice', 'I Wanna Rock', 'The Price', 'Don't Let Me Down', 'The Beast', 'S.M.F.', 'Never Say Never', 'Blastin' Fast & Loud', 'Hero's Are Hard To Find', 'Plastic Money', 'Come Back', 'You Know I Cry', 'Rock N Roll Saviors'.
In other news, the DVD "Still Hungry: Live At Wacken Open Air" has an October 18th release date through Demolition Records. The show was filmed with 16 cameras during the band's headline set in front of over 40,000+ fans at the 2003 Wacken Open Air Festival. Also included is footage detailing the reformation of the line up after a 12 year sabbatical, and their first "secret" shows before their official reformation.
The track listing is as follows: 'What You Don't Know (Sure Can Hurt You)', 'The Kids Are Back', 'Stay Hungry', 'Destroyer', 'Knife In The Back', 'Under The Blade', 'You Cant Stop Rock And Roll', 'I Am, I'm Me', 'The Fire Still Burns', 'Ride To Live, Live To Ride', 'Shoot 'Em Down', 'We're Not Gonna Take It', 'The Price', 'Burn In Hell', 'I Wanna Rock', 'Come Out And Play' and 'S.M.F.'.
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| 3 July 2004
According STEEL PROPHET's official website (see LINKS), their are two NEW MP3s available for download, taken from their forthcoming album, "Beware".
"Beware" (due out June 28th in Europe, Canada and Australia through Massacre Records - in the US by Nightmare Records in early July) will feature the following tracklisting: ‘Heavenly’, ‘Beware’, ‘Transfusion Vamp’, ‘Leatherette’, ‘Angels’, ‘Killing Machines’, ‘You Are My Life (Gypsy Mind)’, ‘Lost My Way’, ‘Political Greed (Petrol Man)’ and ‘Moosilauke Cascade’. European version to include bonus DVD incl. official video for ‘Leatherette’. US version to include bonus CD, Eyes Of The Prophet (Visions Past).
The European version will come as a regular CD, but will also be released as a double disc with a bonus DVD consisting of live material, documentary and official video for the song ‘Leatherette’. The US version will come with a bonus disc consisting of the Eyes Of The Prophet (Visions Past) album, which will otherwise only be available in Europe on a very limited picture vinyl (through Hellion Records).
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| 3 July 2004
VADER have finalized the track listing for their new album, "The Beast", due out through Metal Blade on September 20th.
The first single, including two new songs, will be released on August 25th. The tracklisting is as follows: 'Apopemiac', 'By Any Means Necessary', 'Choices', 'Dark Transmission', 'Firebringer', 'Insomnia', 'Out Of The Deep', 'Stranger in the Mirror', 'The Sea Cause In The Last', 'The Zone'.
In other news, the band suffered a serious car accident last week. According to their website, "Vader had just finished up the first part of their European tour and had been driving down A1 towards Torun´ (Poland) when the other bus hit them, throwing the bus out on the opposite lane. Cracked car, destroyed trailer, but fortunately the band, staff and equipment managed to escape unharmed."
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| 3 July 2004
THE CROWN’s official website (see LINKS) has been updated with the following:
“The Crown are putting together a DVD!!!
And no, I’m not talking about the bonus DVD for the forthcoming "Crowned Unholy" release, but a separate release. And we ask all of you for some help.
Do you have any video live recordings of The Crown? If you do, please get in touch with Johan for more details. And of course if we use your stuff, you will be credited for it. This will not be the average live DVD release, this will be something very, VERY unique...”
On August 9th, Metal Blade Records will release "Crowned Unholy", the remake of The Crown's "Crowned In Terror" with original vocalist Johan Lindstrand (replacing the vocals of Thomas Lindberg). The album also features rerecorded bass tracks by Magnus Olsfelt, a new version of the intro (originally written by guitarist Marko Tervonen, now programmed by drummer Janne Saarenpää), drum sound digitally enhanced by Janne, and synthesizer-spiced parts all programmed by Janne. The whole remake and remix/mastering was made/performed at Bohus Sound Recording (in Kungälv, Sweden) with Dragan Tanaskovic.
"Crowned Unholy" will be released with a free bonus-DVD entitled The Crown Invade Karlsruhe. The bonus DVD is a full live show filmed professionally on their last tour when the band played Karlsruhe, Germany on November 24th, 2003. The tracklisting of the DVD is as follows: 'No Tomorrow', 'Face Of Destruction' / 'Deep Hit Of Death','Deathexplosion', 'World Below', 'Deliverance', 'Blitzkrieg Witchcraft', 'Cold Is The Grave', ' Zombiefied', 'Dream Bloody Hell' / 'Kill `Em All', 'Under The Whip', 'Bow To None', 'Total Satan', 'House Of Hades' / 'Crowned In Terror' and '1999-Revolution 666'.
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| 27 June 2004
The dutch progressive rock band MORGANA X has decided to change their name to 'novAct'. After the release of their promo 'Misunderstood' there have been some speculations concerning the 'X'. Especially in the American Metal/Prog-scene a trailing 'X' is simply too commonplace to use in the name of a new band. So we have been carefully researching the new name to ensure that won't have any 'problems' down the road. The new name 'novAct' [mind the capital 'A' in the middle of the name] for us (and hopefully for you) represents a new episode and stands for 'new band'. For more info: http://www.novact.nl
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| 27 June 2004
Former IRON MAIDEN singer PAUL DI'ANNO, GIRLSCHOOL and TYGERS OF PAN TANG will be teaming up for a European tour beginning in October 2004. Exact cities and dates will be announced soon.
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| 27 June 2004
Dutch outfit GOREFEST are on the verge of a reunion. Sources report it's for fun in the first place but the band is very serious about recording a new album. The band already scheduled their first rehearsals.
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| 27 June 2004
Finnish melodic metallers SONATA ARCTICA have set an October 11 European release date through Nuclear Blast Records for their new album, "Reckoning Night". The album will arrive in Japan on October 6. Mastering will take place on Monday, June 28 and shortly after that the band will start rehearsing for the summer shows, according to a posting on their web site (see LINKS).
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| 27 June 2004
Reunited San Francisco Bay Area thrashers HEATHEN have announced the addition of bassist Jon Torres to the group's ranks. Torres is no stranger to the Bay Area metal scene, having participated in such bands as THUNDERHEAD, WARNING SF, ULYSSES SIREN, LAAZ ROCKIT and ANGEL WITCH.
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| 27 June 2004
Canadian thrash legends RAZOR have hired a production company and will be filming their upcoming appearance at this year's Gates Of Hell Festival scheduled to take place at FunHause in Toronto, on July 24th.
The lineup also features icons EXCITER and ANVIL alongside WARMACHINE, ROTTING, NITEMARE, VISIONS OF THE NIGHT, WILL OF THE ANCIENTS and SOUL LESS DIVINE.
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| 27 June 2004
SIX FEET UNDER have completed work on "Graveyard Classics 2" at Morrisound Recording in Tampa, Florida with Chris Carroll mixing. The CD, which features the band doing something "that has never been attempted in the history of rock 'n' roll thus far," according to SIX FEET UNDER vocalist Chris Barnes, is scheduled for release on September 7 through Metal Blade Records.
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| 27 June 2004
There's a new JUDAS PRIEST tribute band called NUDIST PRIEST and they play, you guessed it, naked. Priest frontman ROB HALFORD is hoping to track them down: "My former guitarist Pat Lachman saw them at a club in Los Angeles, and they played naked," Halford commented. "My main questions were, 'What was the singer like and how big was his unit?'"
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| 27 June 2004
ANVIL guitarist Ivan Hurd fell from a ladder on May 13, 2004 and broke four ribs and his left wrist. He also suffered a cracked tailbone. Hurd is now forced to sit out the band's upcoming appearances. Guitarist George Vee will be filling in for him at these shows.
In other news, condolences go out to frontman Lips (real name Steve Kudlow) whose father recently passed away.
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| 27 June 2004
MARDUK will be entering the studio in the middle of July to begin the recording seessions of their upcoming ninth full length album. The band's webmaster added: "We havent recived any working title for the album yet and the only song title we can confirm so far is 'Throne Of Rats', ,a song that the band debuted when they headlined the Motala Metal Festival. The new album will be recorded at the local Endarker Studio (in Norrköping, Sweden). More information will be posted soon."
The album is set to be released in November and will be followed by a massive world tour.
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| 27 June 2004
CATHEDRAL are currently working on material for their eighth album. This will be the band's debut for the Nuclear Blast label, set for an early 2005 release.
The proposed album has a current working title of "Seeds Of Decay". Some working song titles include: ‘Oro The Manslayer’, ‘Corpsecycle’, ‘Sabbadaius Sabbattum’, ‘Eripmav Moon’, ‘This Body Thy Tomb’, ‘Everything Is Dying’ and ‘Upon Azraels Wings’.
The album will once more feature the epic cover art of long term Cathedral artist, Dave Patchett.
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| 27 June 2004
GOD DETHRONED will enter Berno Studios in Malmö, Sweden on July 14th to begin recording the follow-up to 2003's "Into the Lungs of Hell".
Nine new songs are ready to be laid down for the as-yet-untitled effort, which is tentatively due in late 2004/early 2005.
In other news: GOD DETHRONED parted ways with guitarist Jens v/d Valk. Jens will concentrate on AUTUMN and GOD DETHRONED will look for another guitarist. There is no official statement from the band yet.
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| 27 June 2004
GIRLSCHOOL have finished recording their new album and plan to issued the release by the end of this month (June).
Girlschool will tour in support of the release between June and August this year.
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| 27 June 2004
JAG PANZER guitarist Mark Briody has posted the following on their official website (see LINKS): "The recording for "Casting The Stones" is complete! I AM VERY EXCITED ABOUT THIS RECORD! I leave for Florida this morning. Chris (Broderick - guitar), Jim (Morris) and I will start the mixing tomorrow (at Morrisound Studios in Tampa)." Century Media Records will release "Casting The Stones" worldwide this fall.
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| 27 June 2004
CRADLE OF FILTH are now half way through the mixing process of their forthcoming album, "Nymphetamine", which is currently scheduled for a late September release through Roadrunner. Mixing for this should be complete by the 1st week of July. The band's A&R representative Mike Gitter had this to say: "I would have to say without a doubt, it's CRADLE OF FILTH's best record. Not merely a great CRADLE OF FILTH record, but a great metal record. Both longtime fans and casual listeners will be pretty fuckin' surprised."
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| 19 June 2004
Legendary splatter rockers THE ACCUSED (see LINKS) will be heading into the studio with producer Jack Endino to record their first new material in well over ten years. The band are also accepting artwork for the second issue of the Martha Splatterhead comic. Go to their website (see LINKS) for more information.
In other news, THE ACCUSED are working with Warped Reality Pictures to bring the Martha Splatterhead character to life on the screen. Warped Reality Pictures is best known for their indie film/cult smash "Cannibal Maniac".
With regards to their new material, the band write on their web site: "The new stuff is the best stuff THE ACCUSED has ever written. That is no joke. We are gelling together like we never were apart. The new material is face-lacerating, blood-soaked, hammer-to-the-temple bad-ass! Every worm-driven-saw-slice-to-the-spine riff and every eyelid-ripped-out-by-needle-nose-pliers scream is beyond belief. It could've been sad if we ended up just throwing some crappy pieces of whatever together and calling them songs. But we sure as hell didn't do that. This is the real deal, splatterheads. For those of you who've been waiting, you will not regret it. 100% splatter rock from top to bottom! For those of you new to this whole thing — prepare to be enlightened on what's been missing in your life."
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| 19 June 2004
Quebec based bashers HANKER have posted the cover art for their upcoming new album, "Web Of Faith".
This is how it looks like:

The track list for the album, which will be released through Skyscraper Records, is as follows: 'Empower', 'Inside Me', 'Stigmata', ' Let me Out', ' Do Or Die', 'Between The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea', 'The Search', 'Under Cover Of Darkness', 'Face To Face', 'Point Of No Return', 'The Huntsman' and 'Web Of Faith'.
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| 19 June 2004
CONFESSOR (see LINKS) have issued the following update:
"Hi everybody, how's it going?
We just wanted to let you know that we are signing a management contract with a company based in Raleigh, NC. They are the same company who used to manage Corrosion Of Conformity.
The company will shop our demo which is already getting a big buzz out in the public and at some labels. We have had a premixed version of a song from the demo entitled 'Sour Times' up on our music page for the last month. The response has been amazing!!!
We have now uploaded a final mixed version of another song from the demo entitled 'Blueprint Soul'. Just wanted to update everyone on the latest news and the heads up on the new song up on the website!!! Thank you so much for your support, we truly appreciate it."
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| 19 June 2004
IRON MAIDEN drummer Nicko McBrain confirmed during a "question-and-answer" session with fans at an Italian drum clinic earlier this week that the band will play festivals all over Europe next year, with plans to return to the recording studio in November 2005. The follow-up to last year's "Dance of Death" is not expected until the spring of 2006.
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| 19 June 2004
Polish death metallers VADER recently entered Radio Gdansk Studio with producer Piotr Lukaszewski ("Reign Forever World", "Revelations", "Blood") to begin recording their new album, "The Beast". "The recordings will take a little more time but the process is currently entering its final phase," reads a post on the band's web site. A fall release through Metal Blade Records is expected.
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| 19 June 2004
MEGADETH mainman Dave Mustaine has revealed in an online posting at their website (see LINKS) that he has sent a copy of the new MEGADETH album, titled "The System Has Failed", to former drummer Nick Menza . Mustaine will meet with Menza in Los Angeles or Arizona to see if Nick "has got what it takes to play [the new] songs and to play the old stuff." Menza played drums on several MEGADETH albums during the '90s (1990's "Rust In Piece", 1992's "Countdown to Extinction", 1994's "Youthanasia", and 1997's "Cryptic Writings") before being ousted from the group and replaced by former SUICIDAL TENDENCIES/Y&T drummer Jimmie DeGrasso.
The bassist position in MEGADETH's touring lineup will be filled by Jimmie Lee Sloas, the bassist that played on the new MEGADETH record, while the second-guitarist slot is wide open. "I am meeting with [former guitarist] Marty [Friedman] in Tokyo next month, but that is merely because I love, respect, and miss him," Mustaine wrote. "Although, I am gonna to talk to him about playing again. And for the record, he was interested; he is just hella busy with his [Japanese] pop career."
MEGADETH have selected "Die Dead Enough" as the first single from "The System Has Failed", due on September 14 through Sanctuary Records. The single will go to metal radio around July 19 and rock radio one week later. "The System Has Failed" was recorded at Phase Four studios in Tempe, Arizona and is set to feature cover artwork by Ed Repka. Joining Mustaine on the recording are Sloas and drummer Vinnie Colaiuta. Additional lead guitar tracks were laid down by former MEGADETH guitarist Chris Poland.
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| 19 June 2004
MORBID ANGEL guitarist Trey Azagthoth has revealed plans to collaborate with THE GATHERING singer Anneke van Giersbergen on an as-yet-unnamed new project. "I really hope and believe that this dream of mine will come true some day,". "I'd really like to hear what kind of end result we could come up with when my playing and her beautiful singing are meshed together. I'm sure we could even create a totally new style of music... but let's see if our schedules coincide and we can find some time to work on some material together."
In other MORBID ANGEL-related news, the group's drummer Pete Sandoval told that he hopes to enter the studio later in the year to record the long-awaited new TERRORIZER album. "I know that there has been rumors over the years about the band recording the follow-up to 1989's 'World Downfall' but this time it's really going to happen, I'm going to force the other guys into the studio with me if I have to! On the album, there's going to be me, Oscar Garcia [vocals] and Jesse Pintado [guitar, NAPALM DEATH, LOCKUP].
With regards to the musical direction of the new TERRORIZER album, Sandoval said, "It's gonna be like the first TERRORIZER album... I mean, the sound of the album is going to be about the same. Maybe I'll play a little bit faster though..."
On the subject of other possible side projects, Pete said, "I really love classical music and composers like Beethoven, Chopin and Mozart. I have written some music on piano and keyboards over the years and I hope to one day release an album which will contain only drums and piano. And maybe a female singer could sing on some of the songs as well.
"I am also going to release an instructional video for young drummers," Sandoval added. "I am going to sell it via the Internet. So many people have come up to me and asked me, 'How do you play such and such song?' and I can't explain it in words, I have to show them how I play! So I am going to play, for example, some MORBID ANGEL songs for that video. I will start by playing slow and then I will gradually get faster until I am finally playing the song at full speed. I really want people to see how I play these songs like 'Bil Ur-Sag'."
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| 19 June 2004
Legendary heavy metal band GWAR have risen from the frozen wastes of Antarctica to begin work on their new, and as yet untitled album, to be released this fall on DRT Records. GWAR will record at Wreckroom Studios in Richmond, VA (home of The Slave Pit), and will mix at the Chop Shop in NYC. The band's first studio release in three years, GWAR will record with producer Glen Robinson, who worked with the band on their classic third album, "America Must Be Destroyed". "I don't expect to survive," said Robinson, "but if I can make it through the mixes we should be cool."
DRT will also be re-issuing GWAR's debut album "Hell-O" and the classic follow-up "Scumdogs Of The Universe" as a specially packaged double CD on August 3. GWAR's world tour begins in October upon the album's release.
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| 19 June 2004
Former TROUBLE/ZOETROPE drummer Barry Stern will be sitting behind the kit for DEBRIS INC. when they perform at the Templars of Doom Festival in Indianapolis on June 19. He will also be playing with the band at their Templars warm-up date on June 17 at the Liar's Club in Chicago, Illinois.
DEBRIS INC. is the new group featuring SAINT VITUS mainman Dave Chandler and ex-TROUBLE bassist Ron Holzner.
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| 19 June 2004
RAMONES guitarist Johnny Ramone is in a Los Angeles hospital battling prostate cancer. "Johnny's been a champ in confronting this, but at this point I think the chances are slim," drummer Marky Ramone told the magazine. "John never smoked cigarettes, he wasn't a heavy drinker and he was always into his health. It just proves when cancer seeks a body to penetrate, it doesn't matter how healthy you are or how unhealthy you are. It just seeps in and there's nothing you can do."
Johnny Ramone, 55, whose real name is John Cummings, was diagnosed with prostate cancer four years ago, and it has now spread throughout his body, Rollingstone.com quoted Marky Ramone as saying.
"I've been getting so much email from people and from papers and magazines wanting to know what was up I had to take it upon myself to say something, because eventually John won't be in any condition to say or do anything," Marky said. "He went through many chemotherapy treatments. Some of it worked better than others. At this point [the cancer] has started to go into other areas of the body."
RAMONES' singer, Joey Ramone (born Jeff Hyman), died in 2001 of lymphatic cancer, while bassist Dee Dee Ramone (Douglas Colvin) died from a drug overdose the following year.
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| 19 June 2004
"Lionheart" is the title of the new SAXON album. The record is scheduled for release in September through SVP. STRATOVARIUS drummer Jorg Michael handled the drum duties and will also join the band on tour.
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| 19 June 2004
PRETTY MAIDS will enter the studio to record a new album this fall. The release and a full scale tour are expected in the spring of 2005.
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| 19 June 2004
DEW SCENTED are in full writing mode for their next album. A release is expected spring 2005.
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| 19 June 2004
Reunited San Francisco Bay Area thrashers HEATHEN have made their entire "Breaking the Silence" (1987) and "Victims of Deception" (1989) albums available for free download in the media section via their official web site (see LINKS)
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| 19 June 2004
According to a posting at KALEDON's official website (www.kaledon.com), VICIOUS RUMORS guitarist Geoff Thorpe will perform some guitar solos on the band's upcoming new album, "The Way Of The Light", due out this year via Steelborn Records. The names of the tracks that Geoff performs on will be announced soon.
Kaledon's new album will also feature the drumming talents of STRATOVARIUS skinsman Jorg Michael. Recording sessions for the forthcoming album will begin in July.
Tracks to appear on the forthcoming release include: 'The Inexorable Light', 'The Glory Starts', 'The Hidden Ways', 'The Angel', 'The Eyes Of The Queen', 'Mighty Son Of The Great Lord', 'Vultures In The Air', 'Lord Of The Sand', 'Black Telepathy', 'Come With Me', 'Break The Chant', 'Sword On The Shoulder', 'The Way Of The Light' and 'Great Night In The Land'.
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| 19 June 2004
EUROPE guitarist John Norum has revealed that the band's forthcoming new album has the working title "Start From The Dark". Norum describes the album style as "heavier, like on the earlier albums."
A September release is expected for the new album. Europe have confirmed a string of Swedish dates for this October.
According to the tour section of the band's official website (see LINKS) upcoming Europe tour dates now include:
July
2 - Masters Of Rock Festival in Senec, Slovakia
3 - Masters Of Rock Festival in Vizovice, Czech Republic
5 - Petofi Hall in Budapest, Hungary
17 - Rockperry Festival in Vaasa, Finland
28 - Langelands Festival in Denmark
31 - Baderock Festival in Sandeljord, Norway
August
7 - Lokerse Feesten in Gent, Belgium
10 - La Foire Au Vin De Colmar in Colmar, France
14 - Lorca Rock in Murcia, Spain
22 - Tufertschwil in Lutisburg, Switzerland
October
16 - Cloetta Center in Linkoping, Sweden
17 - Nordic Hallen in Sundsvall, Sweden
20 - Lofbergs Lila Arena in Karlstad, Sweden
21 - Hovet in Stockholm, Sweden
22 - Scandinavium in Goteborg, Sweden
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| 19 June 2004
OBITUARY currently have four songs written and ready to go, and are hard at work on more new material. Although studio time for the band's return has not been set, the classic Obituary line up (John Tardy - vocals, Trevor Peres - guitars, Allen West - guitars, Frank Watkins - bass, Donald Tardy - drums) are set to deliver a new album in the near future.
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| 19 June 2004
CIRCLE II CIRCLE, featuring former SAVATAGE singer Zak Stevens, will be releasing an EP through AFM Records later this summer. A new full length studio album is expected to hit the shelves in October/November. As on the debut, Stevens reportedly composed the new material with former Savatage bandmates Jon Oliva and Chris Caffery.
The band is confirmed to play the following summer dates with BLAZE and PERZONAL WAR:
June
25 – Graspop Festival, Dessel (Belgium)
26 – Ohrakel, Ingolstadt (Germany)
27 – Knaack, Berlin (Germany)
28 – Zeche, Bochum (Germany)
29 – De Bosuil, Weert (Holland)
30 – Colos-Saal, Aschaffenburg (Germany)
July
1 – Z7, Pratteln (Czech Republic)
2 – Motoradfreunde Festival, Nehren (Germany)
3 – JUZ, Andernach (Germany)
4 – Rock The Nation Festival, Istanbul (Turkey)
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| 19 June 2004
MASTERPLAN is slated to release the follow-up to their self-titled debut in January 2005. An EP will be released in November 2004 as a teaser. The band is currently hard at work with producer Andy Sneap (BLAZE, ARCH ENEMY), with the final mix scheduled for August with famed studio rat Mikko Karmila at Finnvox in Helsinki.
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| 19 June 2004
FEINSTEIN (www.rockfeinstein.com) are confirmed to make a guest appearance on August 6th at this summer's 15th Anniversary of the Wacken Open Air festival, scheduled to take place August 5th - 8th in Wacken, Germany.
David "Rock" Feinstein (ex-ELF) will also reunite his former band, THE RODS, for the festival.
Feinstein is fronted by ROYAL HUNT singer John West. The band is signed to by Magic Circle Music and distributed world wide by SPV Germany. Also at Wacken will be a one-time reunion of the seminal metal band of the 1980s, The Rods. "Rock" Feinstein will perform with Gary Bordonaro on bass, and Carl Canedy on drums - the same trio that recorded the band's best-known records, Wild Dogs in 1981 and their self-titled debut album the year before.
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| 19 June 2004
DIO's upcoming studio album, "Master Of The Moon", will not see a July released as initially planned. Instead, the latest opus from the legendary vocalist will be issued in September via Sanctuary Records (SPV in Europe), following a European Summer tour. The touring lineup of the band will be Ronnie James Dio on vocals, Craig Goldy on guitar, Simon Wright on drums and Rudy Sarzo on bass. They are all considered permanent members at this point.
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| 19 June 2004
According to organizers of ProgPower Europe, they have completed the lineup of this year's festival with Canada's multi-faceted DEVIN TOWNSEND, who will headline the first night. ProgPower 2004 is scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 2nd and Sunday, October 3rd at JC Sjiwa in Baarlo, The Netherlands. The complete 2004 ProgPower Europe lineup is as follows: ALCHEMIST, ALL TOO HUMAN, AMARAN, THE DUST CONNECTION, THE GATHERING, KATATONIA, MORGANA-X, PLATITUDE, SYMPHORCE, TOMORROW'S EVE, DEVIN TOWNSEND.
Advance weekend tickets are on sale via ProgPower's website (see LINKS) for €40.
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| 19 June 2004
Adam Wakeman has been named as the keyboard player for BLACK SABBATH on the upcoming Ozzfest tour.
Adam is the son of Rick Wakeman, longtime YES keyboardist, and the man who handled the keys on Sabbath's 1973 album, Sabbath Bloody Sabbath. There is not yet information available as to why previous Black Sabbath keyboardist Geoff Nichols is not touring with the band this year.
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| 19 June 2004
THRESHOLD's upcoming album "Subsurface" is due out on August 2nd through InsideOut Music. The album will also be released in a Special Edition format featuring an extended booklet, bonus track ('What About Me'), multimedia and video footage. Threshold will bring "Subsurface" alive in September 2004.
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| 11 June 2004
AFTER DEATH, the Tampa-based band featuring former MORBID ANGEL, NOCTURNUS and ACHERON drummer/vocalist Mike Browning, have finished recording three new songs for the new demo at Erik Rutan's (HATE ETERNAL) Mana Recording studio with Erik producing and engineering. The mixing sessions are scheduled to take place this Friday (June 11).
Formed in 1999 under the name NOCTURNUS A.D., AFTER DEATH's current lineup is rounded out by Lisa Lombardo (keyboards & vocals) and Ed Miller (guitar & vocals).
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| 11 June 2004
Extreme metallers INVOCATOR are working together again on some new material. According to the band: “It was great to finally meet up again, and to start working on the new songs. The new stuff sounds really promising! During the summer/fall we will try to finish up enough songs to put on a new full-length, and hopefully we will be able to record the new album before the end of the year. Stay tuned good people!”
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| 11 June 2004
SAGITTA from Brazil are recording their new studio album and two members of Symphorce will do a guest in the album. Here's the official word: "Symphorce band mates Andy B. Franck (vocals) and Cede Dupont (guitars) have been invited to play on the forthcoming album by new Brazilian shooting stars Sagitta! Currently both musicians are in different studios recording their parts. Dupont flew over to Brazil to record his parts in Sao Paulo, while Andy had to settle for doing his vocal tracks in a German studio due to timing conflicts, as he will be touring with Brainstorm around the same time (playing the USA, Sweden, etc.) . Besides the usual English lyrics, Andy will be trying to sing in Portuguese for the very first time!
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| 11 June 2004
After four years of existence, VYNDYKATOR and Bob Mitchell (current ATTACKER and former SLEEPY HOLLOW and ALCHEMY X vocalist) have amicably parted ways. "Personal and private commitments as well as musical direction have led to this decision," the band write in a statement. "We thank Bob for all he has done for VYNDYKATOR and wish him the very best in all future endeavors."
VYNDYKATOR has begun the process of auditioning for the position of lead vocalist. Interested parties can contact the band via www.vyndykator.net or send correspondence to:
Vyndykator
PO Box 7446
North Bergen, NJ 07047
USA
"We are seeking an individual with a good vocal range, metal knowledge and a good attitude," the band write. "Our home base is Jersey City, New Jersey."
VYNDYKATOR's debut album, "Heaven Sent From Hell", was released on CD in 2003 on Unisound Records, on picture disc by Outlaw Recordings in December 2002 and on black vinyl again on Outlaw in 2004.
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| 11 June 2004
U.K. progressive metallers THRESHOLD have set an August 3 release date through Inside Out Music for their brand new studio album, entitled "Subsurface". A limited-edition version of the album will contain a bonus track, "What About Me", plus a multimedia section including video footage of the band performing the song "Pressure", band gear profiles, alternative cover art and unseen band photos.
"Subsurface" track listing:
01. Mission Profile
02. Ground Control
03. Opium
04. Stop Dead
05. The Art Of Reason
06. Pressure
07. Flags And Footprints
08. Static
09. The Destruction Of Words
10. What About Me (bonus track)
+ multimedia section
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| 11 June 2004
TEN TON TRUCK, the new band formed by former HADES guitarist Ed Fuhrman and ex-DEMONSPEED drummer Jim King, have launched their official web site at this location. The site features more information about the group as well as photos and samples of music from their recently completed demo.
With regards to the group's musical direction, Fuhrman states: "If you're a fan of my old band HADES, then be prepared for a shock! This is a totally different sound with very aggressive vocals and heavy grinding riffs. TEN TON TRUCK has a crushing sound that's guaranteed to blow your doors off! (or your money back) I really think the music speaks for itself — so take a listen and you decide."
TEN TON TRUCK have just begun shopping for a record deal and are hoping to get their debut album out by early 2005. Live performances in the New York area are planned for this summer.
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| 11 June 2004
BATHORY mastermind Thomas "Quorthon" Forsberg was found dead in his apartment in Stockholm, Sweden on Monday, June 7. The 39-year-old son of Black Mark Records owner Börje Forsberg, widely considered to be one of black metal's founding fathers, died of an apparent heart failure.
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| 11 June 2004
MOTORHEAD’s forthcoming new album, "Inferno", will be released through SPV in Europe on June 21st. The title will be available in the following formats: 2xLP and Limited Edition 2xCD (including DVD video single for ‘Brave New World’, ‘Serial Killer’ video, ‘We Are Motorhead’/Aufnahem Live and Making Of Inferno).
"Inferno" will also be released in Japan through JVC with an additional bonus track.
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| 11 June 2004
Colorado power metallers JAG PANZER are hard at work on their eighth studio album, "Casting The Stones", with producer Jim Morris at the legendary Morrisound Studios in Tampa, Florida. Additionally, "Casting The Stones" will feature cover-art by distinguished artist Mattias Noren.
Founding guitarist Mark Briody sends the following studio report: “Casting the Stones' is coming out GREAT! We're about 70% percent done. All drums and rhythm guitars are complete. Half the vocals and half the bass tracks are done also. I'm very happy with the songs. Chris (Broderick) has delivered some awesome layered and complex songs complete with some intense polyrhythms. My songs have much more harmony guitar work then my previous writing. We're also using some different gear - amps, cymbals, drums, etc. The production is going to be very cool. We also used some different tunings on the album. Look for an mp3 in a month or so.”
Century Media Records will release Casting The Stones worldwide this fall.
In other JAG PANZER news:
The long sought after, and highly bootlegged "Chain Of Command" (the first album after Harry 'The Tyrant' Conklin departed the band) will be issued, in a limited run (5000, worldwide), through Century Media, June 21. Mark Briody reports that Chain vocalist Bob Parduba actually sang backing tracks on one of the tunes from the forthcoming Casting The Stones. "It's true Bob sang backing vocals. He was in the studio (last) Sunday. Bob, Jim Morris and I laid down some backing vocals. They came out great, Bob was able to hit the highs very well."
As to the re-issuance/debut of Chain, he adds, "I sent Century Media masters with one extra track ('When the Walls Come Down') and 2 extra tracks ('When the Walls Come Down' and 'Battlezones' live). I told them that Bob wanted to give 'Battlezones' a listen before it was given the o.k. for the release. So I believe Century Media just used the master with 1 extra track. If this is true I will ask (our webmaster) to put the 'Battleszones' live track on the website.
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| 11 June 2004
GLENN HUGHES performs vocals on the track ‘Where Did You Hide The Blues, for the MOONSTONE project (www.moonstone.it).
The track is a bluesy and emotional song which also features Ian Paice (DEEP PURPLE) on drums. Another special guest for the project is singer KELLY KEELING (JOHN NORUM, DOKKEN, GEORGE LYNCH). He sings on ‘Slave Of Time’, a straight rocker with a southern feel. Other guests to be included on the album will be announced soon. The recording sessions will continue until the beginning of July, when the mixing process will begin.
Moonstone is an Italian project led by guitarist Matteo Filippini. There is no confirmed record deal yet, but a release is planned for summer/early fall.
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| 11 June 2004
SUN CAGED have issued the following message through their official website (see LINKS):
“Unfortunately the band had to cancel two upcoming gigs due to the personnel changes. The band regrets this decision but cannot help it either. Sun Caged was supposed to play at the Dwergpop festival in Driebergen on the 3rd of July, and also at the Weistock festival the 18th of July in Lottum.
Roel, Rob and Marcel will play at the Weistock festival doing a KISS tribute gig, they will be assisted by Tim Van Der Loo (brother of Rob) on second guitar and previous Sun Caged singer Sascha Burchardt (he sings on the Dominion EP) on vocals.
The band already had some auditions but haven't found the right people yet. There will be more auditions soon. We are looking for: A singer with a high range, comparable to Andre's Voice, he does not have to sound the same as Andre but he should be able to sing the songs from the album in a good way. The band rehearses in The Netherlands (Lottum, in the south, near the German border) so if you think you are the singer for us contact us at: suncaged@suncaged.com.
Also still wanted a keyboard player, you should be technically skilled, be able to play along leads, you should have great sounds and of course you should be able to play the songs from the album in a good and professional way. If you think you are the perfect keyboard player for us contact us at the same email address: suncaged@suncaged.com.”
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| 11 June 2004
SOUL SIRKUS is a new project featuring guitarist Neil Schon (JOURNEY), singer Jeff Scott Soto (ex-YNGWIE MALMSTEEN), drummer Deen Castronovo (ex-OZZY OSBOURNE, PLANET US, HARDLINE) and bassist Marco Mendoza (THIN LIZZY, ex-WHITESNAKE).
The quartet has been busy recording tracks for their debut album. 11 songs have been written and recorded recently in San Francisco at Jonathan Cain's (Journey - keyboardist) studio, with the album to be shopped to potential labels soon.
The band was born out of the ashes of PLANET US, the project featuring Journey's Neal and Deen with SAMMY HAGAR (VAN HALEN vocalist) and Michael Anthony (Van Halen bassist) – who have returned to their roles in Van Halen.
Planet Us demoed two tracks – 'Peephole' and 'Vertigo', but disbanded without going any further. Neal had heard of Jeff's reputation and the pair first jammed at LA's 2004 Winter NAMM Convention in Los Angeles. From there the pair quickly got working collaborating on songs and the results will be heard on their debut album. Neal Schon recently commented: "The new stuff is cool, melodic and has plenty of edge. We are very much looking forward, to getting it out soon and playing live. I definitely feel we have the goods. It is sounding very cool to say the least."
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| 11 June 2004
The latest releases in Roadrunner's 2-for-the-price-of-1 classic, rare and deleted album series returns on July 12th, with the following:
MERCYFUL FATE's "Don't Break The Oath" (1984) and "Return Of The Vampire" (1992)
ANNIHILATOR's "Set The World On Fire" (1993) and "Live In Command" (1996)
GORGUTS's "Considered Dead" (1990) and "The Erosion Of Sanity" (1993).
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| 11 June 2004
GARY MOORE (see LINKS) has confirmed more dates for his upcoming UK trek this summer.
Bassist Bob Daisley (OZZY OSBOURNE, URIAH HEEP, GARY MOORE, RAINBOW) will join Gary on the road in support of his forthcoming album, "Power Of The Blues", due out on June 7th through Sanctuary. Daisley also performs on the record.
Upcoming confirmed Gary Moore dates now include:
June
26 at Stormont Estate in Belfast, Northern Ireland
27 at Pearse Stadium in Galway, Ireland
July
2 at Fredrikstad Stadium in Fredrikstad, Norway
17 at Pistoia Blues in Pistoia, Italy
18 at Jazz-Groove Festival in Wiesen, Austria
26 at Blue Balls Music in Luzurne, Switzerland
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| 11 June 2004
VOIVOD ’s Jason Newsted has updated the band’s website with the following:
“Attention! Attention! Attention! All friends in the Multiverse.
The Voivod is alive and well in the land of ice. Currently, there are approximately 25 songs in progress for the next recordings.
Mssr. Piggy is churning up evil with some very metal riffage and leading the way as we are charting our course of execution for the months ahead. As of now, we plan to return to the same rooms with the same helmsman of the Nothingface era. (Translation: Away, Snake, Piggy, and Jasonic make some serious new Voivodian noise in Montreal with Glen Robinson producing.) This is our dream, this is our quest. So, as the world spins faster everyday, we will make our music, our way, when everything aligns. In time, the Voivod again will rise!
Listen closely for the cries... in 2005...
We look forward to sharing the metal with our people. Until we see you... Keep It Heavy,
Jasonic.
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| 11 June 2004
The webmaster of the official KING DIAMOND/MERCYFUL FATE website (see LINKS) has issued the following message:
“Get Ready For Some Deadly Lullabyes “Live”!!!
"I just received some news from King about the forthcoming double live CD. Yes, you read this right! It's gonna be a 2-disc set. The title is Deadly Lullabyes “Live”. No release date has been set at the moment but as soon as we know more we'll inform you right away. The songs published next are likely to be on the CD. But this is NOT confirmed yet: ‘Funeral’, ‘Mansion In Darkness’, ‘The Family Ghost’, ‘Black Horsemen’, ‘Spare This Life’, ‘Mansion In Sorrow’, ‘Spirits’, ‘Sorry Dear’, ‘Eye Of The Witch’, ‘Sleepless Nights’, ‘Puppetmaster’, ‘Blood To Walk’, ‘So Sad’, ‘Welcome Home’, ‘Invisible Guest’, ‘Burn’, ‘Halloween’ and ‘No Presents For Christmas’.”
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| 11 June 2004
THE HAUNTED have inked an exclusive worldwide management deal with Petri Lundén and Talent Trust (EUROPE, TURBONEGRO).
The Haunted have also finished mixing their forthcoming new album with Tue Madsen at Antfarm Studios in Denmark. The band’s fourth album will include the following tracks: ‘Abysmal’, ‘Liquid Burns’, ‘Drowning’, ‘My Shadow’, ‘Almost Alive' and 'Who Will Decide?'. This new album will be released by the Century Media label where the band signed this week a worldwide multiple-album deal.
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| 4 June 2004
The 2004 Graspop Metal Meeting (see LINKS) will take place June 25th - 27th in Dessel, Belgium.
The latest acts confirmed to perform at the festival include: IGNITE, SUFFOCATION, SCARVE, TERROR.
Here’s a current schedule of confirmed acts:
Friday, June 25: ANATHEMA, CIRCLE II CIRCLE, EPICA, EXODUS, HYPOCRISY, ICED EARTH, IN EXTREMO, SUFFOCATION WHITE LION, DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN.
Saturday, June 26: AGNOSTIC FRONT, ALICE COOPER, ANTHRAX, BACKFIRE, BLOOD FOR BLOOD, CRADLE OF FILTH, DISIPLINE, EVERGREY, MORBID ANGEL, MOTÖRHEAD, MY DYING BRIDE, PLEYMO, SLAPSHOT, SLIPKNOT, QUEENSRŸCHE, SCARVE, SOULFLY, OOMPH, BRIDES OF DESTRUCTION.
Sunday, June 27: CHIMAIRA, CHILDREN OF BODOM, DEATH ANGEL, DIMMU BORGIR, DYING FETUS, HATEBREED, IGNITE, ILL NINO, JUDAS PRIEST, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE, MALEVOLENT CREATION, LIFE OF AGONY, SAXON, SEVEN WITCHES, TESTAMENT, THERION, FEAR FACTORY, JACKSON UNITED.
More than 50 bands will be performing on three stages during the three-day event. Tickets for all three days will cost 90 euros (all-in ticket: festival, camping and parking). A one-day ticket will cost 35 euros on Friday and 50 euros each on Saturday and Sunday.
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| 4 June 2004
PROJECT: FAILING FLESH (featuring ex-VoiVod frontman Eric Forrest) have posted the following update at their official website (www.projectfailingflesh.com):
"The second full length disc from Project: Failing Flesh will likely be titled "The Conjoined". The band are currently writing and recording tracks for this release."
The band have eight songs written for the new CD. Working titles include: 'Through The Broken Lens', 'The Conjoined', 'Hand That You've Been Dealt', 'Second Impact Syndrome', 'Unsight Unseen', 'Eve Of Demise', 'Motionless' and 'Last Act Of Treachery'.
The band will be self-producing and tracking at Assembly Line Studios in Virginia.
For a review of their debut album, take a look at the "REVIEWS" section on this website (Mario's Metal Mania)
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| 4 June 2004
STEEL PROPHET guitarist Steve Kachinsky has posted the following update at the band's official website (see LINKS):
"Hey All Steelheads, the album (Beware) is finally finished! Begun on March 5th, and completed May 18th, 2004. Cover art should be posted soon on our web site (www.steelprophet.com). It's going to be interesting to us to hear the criticism for this record as it's the first with Nadir (D'Priest - vocals) and also my first engineering job for the band. Of note; all my solos and a bunch of rhythm tracks were recorded with a broken middle finger on my fretting hand. The finger may need surgery in the future and I'll hear more about that later, so for the time being no gigs are planned. Hopefully everything can be worked out soon and we can hit the road. From first listens people have said the album has maybe our catchiest collection of songs ever; hope they're not lying! The album will be out June 28th in Europe, Canada and Australia through Massacre Records. We'll announce very soon more details on the different versions of the album, as well as our newly signed licensing deals for USA and South America."
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| 4 June 2004
WALTARI filmed their performance at Tavastia in Helsinki on may 6th, for an upcoming DVD. There is no release date set yet.
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| 4 June 2004
Swedish melodic death thrashers SOILWORK will enter Studio Kuling in Örebro, Sweden on September 13 with producer Daniel Bergstrand (MESHUGGAH, IN FLAMES, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD) to begin recording their sixth album, tentatively due in early 2005 through Nuclear Blast Records.
"The new material sounds very promising," SOILWORK vocalist Björn "Speed" Strid writes on the group's web site. "In my ears it sounds like a mixture between 'Natural Born Chaos' (2002) and our latest effort, 'Figure Number Five' (2003) with a slight and interesting development, I'm sure it will please your ears as well when it's getting released in January/February 2005... Have patience... Until then we hope to see you on some of the festivals we're playing this summer and don't miss to check out the upcoming movie 'Alone in the Dark' (web site) (starring Christian Slater etc.) [to] which we're contributing a song from our latest album."
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| 4 June 2004
Dutch thrashers FLESH MADE SIN will enter Harrow studio later this month with producer Marc ter Braak to begin recording their full-length debut, entitled "Dawn of the Stillborn". Cover artwork will be handled by Manuel Tinnemans (PENTACLE, NECROPHAGIA). A September release through an as-yet-undetermined label is expected.
"Dawn of the Stillborn" track listing:
01. Crowned In Torment
02. Dawn Of The Stillborn
03. Spiritual Death-Trip
04. The Cleansing
05. Ritual For The Dead
06. Descending Life
07. Possess The Flesh
08. Wastelands
In other news, FLESH MADE SIN have just been added to the line-up of the Dynamo Open Air pre-party on Friday, June 4 at Effenaar in Eindhoven, Holland. FLESH MADE SIN will perform at 6:30 p.m. sharp. Other groups set to appear are AGENT STEEL, CHILDREN OF BODOM (to be confirmed), AFTER ALL and SHADOWS FALL.
For more information on FLESH MADE SIN, visit the band's web site (see LINKS).
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| 4 June 2004
MEGADETH leader Dave Mustaine has posted the following message in the “Forum” section of the band’s official website (www.megadeth.com):
“Droogies! Thank you for the support yesterday, it helped a lot.
It is just that so much is happening right now that it is sometimes overwhelming.
I am grateful for the threads and emails, and I approved the master yesterday, so that means it is on its way to the record company.
I might as well tell you the title... "The System Has Failed".
Because it has. MSGD!”
"The System Has Failed" will be released through Sanctuary Records on September 14th.
More details on the release as they become available.
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| 4 June 2004
SPASTIC INK/WATCHTOWER guitarist Ron Jarzombek is once again hooking up with former MEGADETH guitarist Marty Friedman following last year's Guitarevolution tour. The Marty Friedman solo band, also featuring bassist/vocalist Chris Catero (ex-WARDOG) and drummer Jimmy DeGrasso (ex-Megadeth, Y&T), will appear in concert at the World Guitar Congress on Tuesday June 8th in Baltimore, Maryland. Also appearing are Eric Johnson, Andy Summers, Allan Holdsworth, and Les Paul, among others.
In other Spastic Ink news, drummer Bobby Jarzombek (ex-HALFORD) has hit the road with ICED EARTH, taking over for the departed Richard Christy (LEASH LAW). The band kicked off the second leg of their US tour in support of their new album, The Glorious Burden, June 1st at the House of Blues in Las Vegas and will visit 14 more cities between now and June 18th before heading over to Europe. Iced Earth are scheduled to headline the Graspop Metal Meeting in Dessel, Belgium on June 25th and Germany's Bang Your Head Festival on June 26th.
Spastic Ink can currently be heard on their new album, "Ink Compatible". For more information visit their website (see LINKS)
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| 4 June 2004
The official VIO-LENCE website (see LINKS) has been updated with the following information:
“Production on the VIO-LENCE DVD is well underway and shaping up better than expected. Shooting is almost finished with just a few people left to interview. On this planned 2-disc DVD you'll see a ton of live footage spanning the band's entire existence as well as a full-length documentary on the history of the band. Included on the documentary will be commentary by all the members of VIO-LENCE (going back to the Death Penalty days) as well as comments by fellow Bay Area thrashers Exodus, Death Angel, Forbidden and many others. You'll also hear from Bay Area historians Ron Quintana and Walter Morgan, as well as legendary band manager Debbie Abono and many others including comments from Vio-lence fans themselves. Expect lots of rare, unreleased footage. This is a DVD for the fans, made by the fans, tentatively scheduled for release late 2004/early 2005 through Megaforce Records.“
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| 4 June 2004
Former SPOCK'S BEARD singer Neal Morse will be releasing his double live DVD, "Testimony Live", on June 29th through InsideOut. The gig was recorded on November 17th, 2003 at the 013 in Tilburg, Holland. DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Portnoy provides the backbone for the gig, as he did for the entire Testimony tour.
The DVD features the Testimony album played in its entirety, the TRANSATLANTIC cuts ‘We All Need Some Light’ and ‘Stranger In Your Soul’, and the Spock’s Beard classic ‘The Light’.
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| 4 June 2004
EIDOLON drummer Shawn Drover has issued the following band update:
“This update is to inform that we have decided to part ways with our singer, Pat Mulock for reasons of both a musical and personal nature. I express no interest in giving any childish, gory details or go into any specifics as to why we have decided to take this path - it simply wasn't working for us anymore on a musical level mostly, so in all fairness to the band, a change is necessary at this point in time - we do wish Pat luck on his future musical endeavors.
So once again we are left with the arduous position of trying to find a new "family" member, as it were - A task ( and I think I speak for Glen and Adrian here as well ) that we are not fond of. At this juncture of the game finding the "right guy for the job" one who expresses the same musical goals as well as sharing the same outlook on this retarded business and NOT be disillusional about it is not an easy thing - we certainly don't do this for money - if we did, we certainly are playing the wrong type of music!!!!!!!!!!! We do this for completely selfish reasons, which to me, is the ONLY reason to play music - to express ourselves in a genuine fashion and not bow to any pathetic trends - in the end, we do this for ourselves first and hope to expand our fan base with each release.
As well, the "right" vocalist has to be great in all facets - melodic, wide range of vocal styles, great frontman and one who can rip your face off in a live setting - in other words, a complete pro!!!!!! Unfortunately - this type of vocalist does not grow on trees here in North America - Europe however, is a different story, so we decided to try a different approach in finding who we were looking for...
It didn't take too long to figure out who we wanted to fill this position. Since late December, Glen and myself have been working on a record called Dimension Infinite which also features three members of a band called PAGANS MIND, who, in my opinion, are a fantastic metal-progish style band from Norway (great guys as well, actually) their singer - Nils K. Rue is lending his talents for this record, in which he, Ronni and Steinar (bass and keyboards, respectively) are currently working on as I write this.
After seeing Pagans Mind last fall at Progpower festival, I was blown away on how great of a live performer Nils was - something that now has played a part on us approaching him to become the new singer for EIDOLON. In my opinion, Nils has all the elements of what we want in a great singer, so after contacting him and offering him the "job", I am happy to say that Nils K. Rue is now the new vocalist for EIDOLON!!!!!! Nils is still currently the singer for Pagans Mind and now Eidolon as well.
We are very excited about the future of the band, and we are very much looking forward to start recording the next Eidolon record, which will happen in early fall-2004!!!!!!!!!
Cheers, Shawn - Eidolon.”
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| 4 June 2004
NEVERMORE is the most recent confirmation for this year's 2004 Waldrock Festival (see LINKS), scheduled to take place in Bergum, Holland on June 19th. The current line-up for the festival now includes: DEATH ANGEL, FEAR FACTORY, HATEBREED, SLAPSHOT, MY DYING BRIDE, EXODUS, TRANSPORT LEAGUE, WITHIN TEMPTATION, TWISTED SISTER, FINNTROLL, MONSTER MAGNET, TESTAMENT, CRADLE OF FILTH, CANNIBAL CORPSE, MORTUARY I.O.D., FINNTROLL, NEVERMORE.
More acts will be announced soon.
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| 4 June 2004
Quebec-based power metallers HANKER have posted the following update at their website (see LINKS) regarding their upcoming album:
"Web Of Faith's" entire artwork (booklet and cover) is now complete and the result is remarkable! It was created by the artist David Faucher under the supervision of the band. Web Of Faith should see the light of day next June (through Skyscraper)."
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| 4 June 2004
UK legends TYGERS OF PAN TANG have announced more dates on their 2004 Tour. The band’s confirmed itinerary is as follows:
May
30 - TNT Club - Athens, Greece
June
14 - London Underworld - London, UK
July
2 - Arena - Madrid, Spain
3 - Industrial Copera - Granada, Spain
4 - Sala Cormoran - Valencia, Spain
5 - Razzmatazz 2 - Barcelona, Spain
9 - Civic - Wolverhampton, UK
10, 11 - Venue/City TBA - Holland (with DEEP PURPLE, STATUS QUO)
August
5 - Spiders Web - Grimsby, UK
6 - Corporation - Sheffield, UK
8 - Civic - Wolverhampton, UK
14 - TBA - Dokkem, Holland
16 - Metalfest 3 - Bissegem (Kortrijk), Belgium
October
1 - Transilvania Live - Milano, Italy
2 - La Sfinge - Brescia, Italy
3 - Mephisto Rock Cafe - Alessandria, Italy
5 - Estragon - Bologna, Italy
6 - Brunch Ascoli - Piceno, Italy
7 - Jail Club - Napaoli, Italy
8 - Kloster - Taranto, Italy
16 - Zaal Astoria - Lauwe, Belgium
17 - Spirit of 66 in Verviers, Belgium
19 - Markthalle - Hamburg, Germany
20 - N8 - Osnabruck, Germany
21 - Alte Spinnerei - Glauchau, Germany
22 - Golem Club - Zlin, Slovakia
23 - Babylon Club - Bratislava, Croatia
24 - Wigwam Club - Budapest, Hungary
25 - Planet Music - Vienna, Austria
26 - Komma - Woergl, Austria
27 - Ohrakel - Ingolstadt, Germany
28 - Live Arena - Muenster/Dieburg, Germany
29 - JUZ Live Club - Andernach, Germany
30 - Zeche - Bochum, Germany
31 - RoFa - Ludwigsburg, Germany
November
1 - Z7 - Pratteln, Switzerland
2 - Venue TBA - Milano, Italy
3 - Venue TBA - Torino, Italy
4 - Venue TBA - Marseille, France
5 - Venue TBA - Barcelona, Spain
6 - Venue TBA - Madrid, Spain
7 - Venue TBA - Bergara, Spain
8 - Venue TBA - Tourlouse, France
9 - Venue TBA - Lyon, France
10 - Venue TBA - Paris, France
11 - Venue TBA - Vosselaar/Brussels, Belgium
12 - Venue TBA - London, England
The band recently issued Noises From The Cat House, which was mixed by Chris Tsangarides.
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| 4 June 2004
VADER have updated their European tourschedule for the next months. There will be gigs added during the next weeks/months.
June
17 - Salzgitter, Germany at Forellenhof
18 - Nijmegen, Netherlands at Doornroosje
19 - London, England at Ulu University
20 - Paris, France at La Locomotive
21 - Lyon, France at TNMD
22 - TBA
23 - Montepellier, France at Rockstore
24 - Travel Day
25 - Marlach, Germany at Rathouse
26 - Aalen, Germany at Rock It
27 - Schlitz, Germany at Fulda
July
2 - Istanbul, Turkey at Venue TBA
4 - Geneva, Switzerland at Venue TBA
5 - Dronten, Netherlands at Rock Barak Nirwana
6 - Alkmaar, Netherlands at Parkhof
7 - Bremen, Germany at Buchte
8 - Munster, Germany at Live Arena
9 - Hannover, Germany at Labor
10 - Ruhrgebiet, Germany at Celtic Rock Festival
11 - Berlin, Germany at K-17
16 - Spital am Semmering, Austria at Kaltenbach Open Air
August
21 - Freilichtbuhne/Bart, Germany at Barther Metal Open Air
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| 28 May 2004
Two line-upchanges in SEVEN WITCHES. Bassplayer Joey Vera has officially left the band after he got the gig with Anthrax. He is replaced by Dennis Hayes, who filled in for Vera on the recent tour with Overkill. Drummer Craig Anderson (ex-Engine) has also joined the group, replacing Brian Craig who wanted to spend more time with his family. The new line-up, still including vocalist James Rivera, recently recorded a new album which will hit the shelves this September.
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| 28 May 2004
DISMEMBER, CALLENISH CIRCLE, OCCULT, HEARSE and JUDGEMENT DAY will be teaming up for a four-date tour of Holland/Belgium in September.
Confirmed dates are as follows:
Sep. 16 - P60 – Amstelveen, NETH
Sep. 17 - VERA - Groningen, NETH
Sep. 18 - BIEBOB – Vosselaar, BEL
Sep. 19 - 013 - Tilburg, NETH
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| 28 May 2004
SYMPHONY X are preparing to enter the studio to write their next CD, according to a posting on the group's official web site.
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| 28 May 2004
Brazilian thrashers SEPULTURA are in talks to support MOTÖRHEAD on their upcoming European tour.
Confirmed MOTÖRHEAD tour dates are as follows:
Nov. 03 – Belfast, IRE @ Ulster Hall
Nov. 04 – Dublin, IRE The Olympia
Nov. 05 – Tramore, IRE @ Co. Waterford South
Nov. 06 – Killarney, IRE @ INEC
Nov. 09 – Glasgow, SCO @ Barrowlands
Nov. 10 – Liverpool, UK @ Academy
Nov. 11 - Sheffield, UK @ Octagon Theatre
Nov. 13 - Newcastle, UK @ City Hall
Nov. 14 - Manchester, UK @ Apollo
Nov. 15 - Nottingham, UK @ Rock
Nov. 17 - Exeter, UK @ University
Nov. 18 - Bristol, UK @ Colston Hall
Nov. 19 - Southampton, UK @ Guildhall
Nov. 21 - Newport, UK @ Center
Nov. 22 - Norwich, UK @ UEA
Nov. 23 - Folkestone, UK @ Leas Cliffe Hall
Nov. 25 - Birmingham, UK @ Academy
Nov. 26 - Cambridge, UK @ Corn Exchange
Nov. 27 - London, UK @ Hammersmith Apollo
Nov. 29 - Amsterdam, NETH @ Pepsi Stage
Nov. 30 - Hardenberg, NETH @ Podium
Dec. 01 - Osnabruck, GER @ Halle Gartlage
Dec. 03 - Erfurt, GER @ Thuringenhalle
Dec. 04 - Magdeburg, GER @ A.M.O.
Dec. 05 - Wiesbaden, GER @ Schlachthof
Dec. 07 - Dusseldorf, GER @ Philipshalle
Dec. 08 - Hannover, GER @ Capitol
Dec. 09 - Dresden, GER @ Schlachthof
Dec. 10 - Stuttgart, GER @ Congresscenter
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| 28 May 2004
On the 9th of August, 2004 Metal Blade Records Europe will release THE CROWN's album „Crowned Unholy“! A bonus-DVD will be included as well. "Crowned Unholy“ is a remake of the bands fifth album “Crowned In Terror” with re-recorded vocal tracks by Johan, re-recorded bass tracks by Magnus, a new version of the intro (originally written by Marko, now programmed by Janne), drum sound digitally enhanced by Janne, and cool synthesizer-spiced parts here and there, all programmed by Janne. The whole remake and remix/mastering was made/performed at Bohus Sound Recording with Dragan Tanaskovic. Janne Saarenpää (drums) comments the release: “Finally ‘Crowned in Terror=Crowned Unholy’ sounds just the way it's supposed to! After a long, long journey through different studios and mastering facilities we once again achieved the unique Crown sound, this time at Bohus Sound Recording and nowhere else. When you hear Johan's voice in the brutal new mix, you will once again realize that you've been struck by the magic of The Crown. A perfect ending for quite a ride that lasted for 14 years!” "Crowned Unholy“ will be released with a free bonus-DVD. The content is not confirmed yet – will keep you posted.
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| 28 May 2004
Century Media is releasing a 2CD best of collection from ICED EARTH called "The Blessed And The Damned" on July 27th.
The album features 23 remastered tracks (over two hours of material) with two different album covers. IE "leader" Jon Schaffer talks about each song in the 20 page booklet that's included in the package.
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| 28 May 2004
DISTANT THUNDER is confirmed for the Keep It True III Festival scheduled for November 6th at Lauda-Konigshofen, Germany at Tauberfrankenhalle (see LINKS).
Other confirmed acts include: HELSTAR, HALLOWS EVE, TYRANTS REIGN, JAGUAR, SACRED STEEL, WITCHFYNDE, ROTTWEILLER, METAL INQUISITOR.
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| 28 May 2004
According to EUROPE guitarist John Norum’s official website (see LINKS) the band has finished recording their as-yet-untitled comeback album and are currently in the mixing stages. Norum has also completed his next solo album, with plans to release it later this year.
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| 28 May 2004
Crash Music, Inc. today announced that they have signed thrash metal legends FLOTSAM AND JETSAM to a two-album deal. The band which consists of Eric A.K. (vocals), Craig Nielsen (drums), Jason Ward (bass), Mark Simpson (guitar) and Ed Carlson (guitar) will hit the studio later this month to begin the recording process. Crash Music hopes to release the new album this fall or early 2005.
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| 28 May 2004
Former STEEL PROPHET members Jim Williams (guitars) and Karl Rosqvist (drums) are planning to make a comeback with their new band,VINDIKATION, this summer. The debut album, "Chamber Of Discontent", contains 10 tracks, has a running time of 45 minutes, and was produced by Erik Norlander.
The track list is as follows: 'Astral Projector', 'Broken Glass Reflection', 'Tides Of Time', 'Heretic Mindset', 'Asleep', 'Searching For Anything Real', 'One Voice In The Cosmic Fugue', 'Intensify', 'Critical Dimension' and 'Forever Again'
Audio samples and the full version of ‘One Voice In The Cosmic Fugue’ can be downloaded at their website (see LINKS)
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| 28 May 2004
DESTRUCTION drummer Marc Reign was arrested in Milano, Italy this weekend after the band's show in Brescia. Here's the report according to the band's website:
"After the fantastic gig in Brescia, Italy (May 22nd) the band had massive problems to leave the country by plane from the Milano airport! What happend was that the Italian customs arrested drummer Marc Reign because of the bands stage accessoires! Apparently it was the chrome bulletbelts, one of the Destruction trade marks, that obviously set the officials in a state of bomb panic! All the arguments that the stage outfit of the band isn´t live or armed didn't have an effect on the over-motivated civil servants! After endless discussions, they did finally confiscate the stage belts and also Marc's deprivation of liberty did come to an happy end! This was just the second time in twenty years (after Peru) that the band had problems at airport customs with their stage outfits! The pesky thing was not just the arrest - imagine the airplane on hold because of that...Spinal Tap."
In other news, Destruction have been added to the Graspop Metal Meeting. They hit the main stage in Dessel, Belgium on Sunday June 27th.
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| 28 May 2004
Former JUDAS PRIEST frontman, Allan Atkins, has united again with former IRON MAIDEN axeman Dennis Stratton.
"Al and guitarist Dennis Stratton (ex-Iron Maiden/PRAYING MANTIS) have joined forces together for more concerts, one being confirmed in July at Milwaukee playing alongside DEEP PURPLE. They will go under the name of THE DENIAL and will play a mix of new songs and old Priest/Maiden songs which they either wrote or played on. The group who played alongside Al and Dennis on tour are Birmingham's new hot rock band THE VASELINERATS who will continue giving them their driving force on the road."
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| 28 May 2004
The official SAXON website (see LINKS) has confirmed the band as playing the following dates for their 25th Anniversary World Tour 2004/2005:
June
27 - Graspop Festival, Dessel (Belgium)
July
2 - Motorradfreunde Nehren, Nehren (Germany)
3 - Polo Festival (6.00pm), Dusseldorf (Germany)
Festival (11.00pm), Andernach (Germany)
August
7 - Wacken Open Air 2004, Wacken (Germany)
9 - Sziget Festival (new date), Budapest (Hungary)
September
16 - Halle 400, Kiel (Germany)
17 - Pumpehuset, Copenhagen (Denmark)
19 - KB, Malmö (Sweden)
20 - Trädgarn, Gothenburg (Sweden)
21 - Rockefeller, Oslo (Norway)
22 - Klubben, Stockholm (Sweden)
24 - Halle Gartlage, Osnabrück (Germany)
25 - Maas En Waalhallen, Druten (Holland)
26 - Filharmonie, Filderstadt (Germany)
28 - E-Werk, Koln (Germany)
29 - Aladin, Bremen (Germany)
30 - Hugenottenhalle, Neu-Isenburg (Germany)
October
1 - Cultureel Centrum, Sint Lievens Houtem (Belgium)
2 - Astoria, London (UK)
3 - Coal Exchange (new date), Cardiff (UK)
4 - Wulfrun Hall (new date), Wolverhampton (UK)
5 - (tbc), Glasgow (UK)
23 - Stadthalle, Lichtenfels (Germany)
24 - Novesta, Zlin (Czech Republic)
25 - Stodola, Warszawa (Poland)
27 - Orpheum, Graz (Austria)
28 - Pauk, Zagreb (Hungary)
29 - Sala Polivalenta, Bucuresti (Romania)
30 - Mylos Apothiki, Thessaloniki (Greece)
31 - Gagarin 205, Athens (Greece)
November
4 - Motion, Bergamo (Italy)
6 - Razzmatazz 2, Barcelona (Spain)
7 - (tbc), Madrid (Spain)
8 - Hard Club, Porto (Portugal)
10 - Rockstore, Montepellier (France)
11 - Tenax, Florence (Italy)
12 - Fillmore, Piacenza (Italy)
13 - Z7, Pratteln (Czech Republic)
14 - Elysee Montmartre, Paris (France)
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| 22 May 2004
Reunited thrash legends HALLOWS EVE will be co-headlining Germany's Keep It True III festival, set to be held November 6 in Lauda-Königshofen. The complete list of bands currently scheduled to appear at the event is as follows:
HELSTAR
HALLOWS EVE
TYRANTS REIGN
JAGUAR
SACRED STEEL
WITCHFYNDE
ROTTWEILLER
METAL INQUISITOR
Two more bands will be added during the coming months. For more information their website (see LINKS)
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| 22 May 2004
Former DEEP PURPLE/BLACK SABBATH singer Glenn Hughes has posted the following update on his official web site:
"We are in the final stages of post production on the live DVD/CD. As you might know it is called 'Soulfully Live in the City of Angels'. I am really excited about this release later this summer. Chad, JJ and I are rehearsing and in pre production for the next studio album. This album won't be released until sometime in 2005. We are cutting live next week. This is the format that TRAPEZE and DEEP PURPLE recorded in. We will record guitar, bass and drums on the same session. I am really looking forward to this. This album promises to be something really special. I will take the whole summer to produce this album as I feel it is an important one."
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| 22 May 2004
THE KILL, the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma-based band featuring former FORTE members Richard Sharp (guitar), Greg Nicholson (bass) and Kevin Valliquette (vocals), have signed a distribution deal with Hellion Records. The group, whose lineup also includes former members of THE DREAM KINGS, recently completed work on their self-financed full-length CD, titled "The Kill". THE KILL describe their musical output as "a gathering of true metal structures, soaring vocals, guitar harmonies, and progressive song craft."
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| 22 May 2004
Swedish death metal legends UNLEASHED have set "Sworn Allegiance" as the title for their follow-up to 2002's "Hell's Unleashed", due on July 26 through Century Media Records.
UNLEASHED mainman Johnny Hedlund had previously described the new CD as "the most intense, brutal and aggressive record in the history of the band." "This record is our offering to YOU our loyal fans around the world!" the band write on their web site. "Others follow the winds of change... YOU came to Swear Allegiance!"
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| 22 May 2004
CIRCLE II CIRCLE, the new band fronted by former SAVATAGE singer Zachary Stevens, have completed the pre-production for the group's much anticipated second release on AFM Records at Cabin Fever Studios in Brooksville, Florida.
Owned and operated by hit songwriter Troy Montgomery, Cabin Fever Studios is known for its privacy, excellent writing conditions, relaxed atmosphere, and a great a collection of guns, bow and arrows, and wildlife.
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| 22 May 2004
ROSE TATTOO guitarist Pete Wells has announced that he will not be able to accompany the band on their European tour this summer due to his ongoing battle with prostate cancer, with which he was diagnosed two years ago. "Pete would like to thank all his friends and fans for their enthusiasm and support over the years. He looks forward to playing overseas again some day, after he's made a full recovery," reads Pete's official statement.
Upcoming ROSE TATTOO tour dates:
Jun. 26 - Schleiz, GER @ Gremium Bike Festival
Jun. 29 - Hannover, GER @ Capitol
Jul. 01 - Saarbrücken, GER @ Garage
Jul. 02 - Pratteln, SWI @ Z-7
Jul. 03 - Andernach, GER @ JUZ Festival
Jul. 04 - Roitschjora, GER @ With Full Force Festival
Jul. 06 - Münster, GER @ Le Splondine
Jul. 07 - Paris, FRA @ Elysee Montmatre
Jul. 08 - Roeselare, BEL @ Schwung Festival
Jul. 09 - Weert, NETH @ Bospop Festival
Jul. 10 - Lennestadt, GER @ Classic Rock Festival
Jul. 11 - Zaandam, NETH @ De Kade
Jul. 12 - Bochum, GER @ Matrix
Jul. 14 - Hamburg, GER @ Markthalle
Jul. 15 - Osnabr||ck, GER @ Hyde Park
Jul. 16 - Bremen, GER @ 3 nach 9 TV (TV-Auftritt plus Interview)
Jul. 17 - Nottingham, UK @ Rock City
Jul. 18 - Bradford, UK @ Rio
Jul. 19 - Glasgow, UK @ Cathouse
Jul. 20 - Dudley, UK @ JB4s
Jul. 21 - London, UK @ The Underworld
Jul. 23 - Geiselwind, GER @ Earthshaker Festival
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| 22 May 2004
Former HADES guitarist Ed Fuhrman has teamed up with ex-DEMONSPEED drummer Jim King in a new band called TEN TON TRUCK . The group, who are completed by vocalist Jim Frizzell and bassist Craig Salvadeo, are heading into Big Blue Meenie recording studios in Hoboken, NJ this weekend (May 21-23) to cut a four-song demo. After that, the band will spend the new few months shopping around for a record deal.
"The music is very different from anything I've done in the past with HADES," Fuhrman said in a statement. "In many ways it's the heaviest music I've ever written. I think it will surprise a lot of people when they hear it. Our website will be up in a few weeks and anyone interested can take a listen to a few new songs from TEN TON TRUCK. If you like any kind of heavy music then I think you'll really enjoy hearing what TTT has to offer."
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| 22 May 2004
DEADLY BLESSING (featuring original vocalist Ski and longtime DORO bassist, Nick Douglas) are mulling offers for a possible German festival appearance, either later this year, or in the spring of 2005. Since their one and only full-length, Ascending From The Cauldron (New Renaissance, '88) has always been hard-to-find, there's also the potential of entering the DVD age, with a vintage show from the same period and/or an Ep of the reunion set.
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| 22 May 2004
CANDLEMASS, the Swedish doom legends have called it quits yet again. They have issued the following statement regarding the split:
"We are truly sorry to inform you that Candlemass have disbanded! This is sad news for us and everybody else that love this fantastic band. There will be no more gigs, no new album, no more doom! This is it... finished... zero... nada... out!!!
"Despite the tremendous success of the reunion, everything hasn’t been perfect. Tiny cracks in the façade could be seen during the first round in the summer of 2002 because members of the band do not share the same vision of Candlemass, the gigs, an eventual new album, democracy, etc., and last year it became clear that the differences were too large to overcome. A demo was recorded but the internal problems overshadowed the fun of playing. The gig at Klubben, Stockholm, Nov. 29 came to be the last one for Candlemass.
"The band have tried to save the situation. There have been meetings and discussions, but unfortunately it hasn’t been possible for the five members to agree on how Candlemass could work in the future. The members would have loved to continue but the chemistry is just not there anymore. The magic is gone..."
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| 22 May 2004
PARADISE LOST (www.paradiselost.co.uk) have issued the following update:
“We are pleased to announce that the new drummer who will be working with the band on their forthcoming album is Jeff Singer. If anyone wants more info on Jeff, you can visit his website at: www.jeffsinger.com .”
Due to the drummer situation, the band were forced to delay the recording of their new album slightly.
Paradise Lost recently parted company with drummer Lee Morris. The band stated personal and musical differences as their reason for taking this action.
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| 22 May 2004
LEASH LAW’s official website (see LINKS) has been updated with the following:
“Leash Law (Wade Black, Rick Renstrom, Emo Mowery, Stephen Elder, Richard Christy) have set the US release date for their debut album, "Dogface", as May 25, 2004 (see REVIEWS)
"Dogface" is being released on Black Lotus Records (http://www.black-lotus-recs.com) with US distribution through The End Records (http://www.theendrecords.com), where the album has been in the top-five for online sales for over a week.
In addition to being offered through The End and other fine online retailers, "Dogface" will be available in wide-release through FYE, Circuit City, Tower Records and Sam Goody.
The album was released in Europe on 4/19/04 and has been scoring impressive reviews and ratings, such as: 8/12 in Heaver Oder Was?, 7/10 in Rock Hard, 8.5/10 in Metal Invader, 8.5/10 in Metal Eagle, 8.5/10 in Bleeding.de and offcourse a great review on this website (Mario's Metal Mania)!!!!
The European release was preceded by the ‘Stealing Grace’ limited-edition EP which has since sold out.
Leash Law have also launched a redesigned website at http://www.leash-law.com. The new site features the latest news, band info, multimedia including MP3 samples, and current reviews. A new ordering page has been implemented to provide links for purchasing options world-wide. A forum community has also been added for fans to discuss metal and all things Leash Law.
Touring plans are currently under development through Wolfgang Rott at CMM promotions (http://www.cmm-online.de). The band plans to bring Dogface live to metal fans around the world later this year.”
Here's also a statement from Emo Mowery about the departure of Richard Christy of Iced Earth:
"First off I would like to say from everyone in the Leash Law/Tiwanaku camp a BIG KICK ASS CONGRATULATIONS to Richard for getting the audition for the Howard Stern show!!!! This is a dream of his coming true and we are glad he is getting the chance!!! He deserves it!!! How could we not be happy for him!!
Way to go CREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEECHURD!!!!
The information that came from the Iced Earth camp is semi-false. I dont
know who made the statement from the IE camp but they obviously must not know Richard very well or are just plain upset because he chose Stern over IE. Richard has not given up playing music and I know he will NEVER do that! He loves music just as much as he loves comedy! They go hand in hand with him!! To say that he is quitting music for comedy is just plain ignorant and an easy excuse to get out of a loaded question. Its not like this news was anything that was being hidden from the public!! After everyone heard what Howard was saying about him on the show it was obvious he was going to get a shot. Go figure! Richard is still, and will always be, a member of Leash Law and Tiwanaku until he says he cannot do it anymore. After talking to him a couple weeks ago I can assure you that he is not planning to leave either of the bands and we are not going to take them away from him either. We are very happy for him!!!!!!!!!!"
Emo and Leash Law/Tiwanaku
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| 22 May 2004
SUFFOCATION have confirmed more dates for their upcoming European tour with DISGORGE, INSISION, and DEMENTOR.
Confirmed dates now include:
June
11 at Hellraiser in Engelsdorf, Germany
12 at Abaton Club in Prague, Czech Republic
13 at K17 in Berlin, Germany
14 at Zeche Carl in Essen, Germany (with DEICIDE)
15 at Rock It in Aalen, Germany
17 at Tunk in Irun, Spain
18 at Mephisto in Barcelona, Spain
19 at Ritmo Y Compas in Madrid, Spain
20 at Hard Club in Porto, Portugal
21 at Sala Anoeta in Vigo, Spain
23 at Mirabeau in Marseille, France
24 at Europe Hall in Metz, France
25 at Graspop Metal Meeting in Dessel, Belgium
26 at Circuit Des 24th in Le Mans, France (Fury Fest)
27 at Patronaat in Haarlem, Netherlands
28 at Locomotive in Paris, France (with Deicide)
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| 22 May 2004
BLITZKRIEG ’s new official website is now up and running at www.blitzed-alive.com.
The band released a new live CD, Blitzkrieg - Absolutely Live!, on April 26th through Metal Nation. The release features 16 tracks including songs from all of the band’s albums, as well as material from the pre-Blitzkrieg days of SATAN’S BLADES OF STEEL.
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| 22 May 2004
THIN LIZZY will be releasing a new collection, entitled "Greatest Hits", on June 7th.
The 2CD set will include previously unreleased renditions of ‘Cowboy Song’ and ‘The Boys Are Back In Town’. (Note: The website state that they have been reliably informed that the two tracks are in fact from the The Boys Are Back In Town (Australia) video/DVD/CD).
The new Greatest Hits collection features the following tracklisting:
CD 1 - ‘The Boys Are Back In Town’, ‘Jailbreak’, ‘Don’t Believe A Word’, ‘Dancing In The Moonlight (It’s Caught Me In It’s Spotlight)’, ‘Rosalie’, ‘Waiting For An Alibi’, ‘Do Anything You Want To’, ‘Sarah’, ‘Chinatown’, ‘Killer On The Loose’, ‘Trouble Boys’, ‘Hollywood (Down On Your Luck)’, ‘Cold Sweat’, ‘Thunder And Lightning’, ‘The Sun Goes Down’, ‘Dedication’, ‘Still In Love With You’, ‘She Knows’, ‘Yellow Pearl’.
CD2 - ‘Whiskey In The Jar’, ‘Out In The Fields’, ‘Parisienne Walkways’, ‘Emerald’, ‘Bad Reputation’, ‘Wild One’, ‘Fighting My Way Back’, ‘Showdown’, ‘Black Rose’, ‘Dear Miss Lonely Hearts’, ‘The Rocker’, ‘Are You Ready’, ‘Renegade’, ‘King’s Call’, ‘Angel Of Death’, ‘Cowboy Song’ (Previously Unreleased), ‘The Boys Are Back In Town’ (Previously Unreleased).
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| 22 May 2004
KREATOR will enter Backstage Recording Studios in Derby, England on May 21st to record 12 songs for the long awaited next studio album. Producer Andy Sneap sent in the following statement this morning - "I am currently being held captive in Essen Germany. I figured if I start digging the tunnel with the spoon provided, empty the dirt in the courtyard and leave by night, the Germans will never know. Hopefully I should have escaped in time to mix the new TESTAMENT album soon. I am currently printing a new passport, perfecting my German and planning my route to the Swiss boarder. Oh yeah and the songs sound great. Mille's (Petrozza - guitars/vocals) discovered how to use an eight track so they're surprising well prepared, good stuff! All ze best - Andy."
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| 22 May 2004
Alex Nelson, guitarist for metal band LIZZY BORDEN, perished in a head-on collision the afternoon of May 17th, 2004.
Alex Nelson joined Lizzy Borden, after replacing Tony Matuzak, on guitar before the recording of The Murderess Metal Roadshow. "Alex maintained his place in the band and went on to tour with Lizzy all over the world. He loved the music and loved the band, but most of all he loved life".
"Alex will be truly missed by all that had the gift of his friendship. We shall miss him dearly, as he was just starting his new life with his wife Angel Nelson. Recently moving to Palm Springs , the couple had purchased their new home and starting a rental business for the condo they had also purchased. They were living their dream life together only to end in a heartbreaking tragedy.
To send your condolences and support please mail to:
V.Q. Promotions
C/O Angel Nelson
4415 W. Verdugo Ave. , Ste B
Burbank, CA 91505
USA
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| 22 May 2004
JAG PANZER will begin recording their new album, "Casting The Stones", this Saturday at Morrisound Studios in Florida with producer Jim Morris. After drum tracking, the band will be back in Colorado for several weeks recording guitars and vocals. Jag Panzer will finally head back down to Morrisound to mix the album at the end June.
Guitarist Mark Briody's comments on the upcoming release: "I'm VERY excited about the songs. I feel that this is some of the strongest material we've ever written. So far it sounds like a more aggressive version of Mechanized Warfare (2001)."
"Casting The Stones" will feature artwork by Mattias Noren. The album will be released worldwide on Century Media Records in September 2004.
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| 22 May 2004
MARDUK have parted ways with long time bassist B. War. According to the posting, "He is replaced By Magnus Devo Andersson, a name that should ring a bell for all Marduk fans as he was second guitar player on the first two albums (Dark Endless and Those Of The Unlight). Marduk is currently working on the final details for their upcoming ninth full length studio album. The band will enter the studio in July and the album is set to be released in November. The album will be followed by a massive world tour. More news will be posted soon.
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| 22 May 2004
TROUBLE guitarist Rick Wartell has posted the following message at their official website:
"Hey, how the hell ya doin'? Just wanted to give you an update on where we are at this point. Eric (Wagner - vocals) is in San Francisco with Vinny (Wojno )remixing the unplugged CD. We know its taking awhile, but it is finally sounding great and that is the most important thing. It should be out in July 2004. Also, we are planning to re-release the Trouble (1990) and Skull (1985) CDs some time this year (November). The live DVD we shot in Stockholm, Sweden is being sent to Vinny for mix.
So that too will come out in 2004. Seven (their forthcoming studio record) is going to be recorded late summer/early fall and is slated for an early 2005 release. We've also added some new merch to the store. A re-release of the 1985 Skull shirt (we stole it from Erics trunk) and nd a brand new one unofficially known as the skate shirt. Hope you enjoy them.
Talk to ya
Rick"
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| 16 May 2004
This years Heavy Metal Maniacs Festival (see LINKS) will take place in Hoorn, The Netherlands on Saturday, 30th October 2004. Already confirmed are METAL INQUISITOR, ELIXER and........(new) ATTACKER!!
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| 16 May 2004
ICED EARTH mainman Jon Schaffer has posted the following message on the band's official web site:
"Again I must apologize for the delay in updating you all on the current events of ICED EARTH, it's seems there's never enough hours in the day. "The tour has been an astounding success thus far with most of the shows being sold out, many in record time for ICED EARTH. The legion of our passionate and incredibly loyal fans is growing as always and we are extremely grateful.
"The most significant bit of news to report is that Richard Christy will no longer be with the band after the LA show. He has decided to pursue his comedy career by being a permanent fixture on 'The Howard Stern Show'. Though Richard's timing on informing the band of this was somewhat less than professional, as he informed us of his intentions in the middle of the tour instead of before it started, we do wish him well and all the best for his future. He feels he will be better suited for the comedy world than the music world based on some recent experiences, and he's probably right, Richard is a very funny and unique guy.
"Replacing Richard will be Bobby Jarzombek of HALFORD and RIOT notoriety. Bobby is an excellent drummer and we will be rehearsing in Los Angeles before we start the extension of the U.S. dates
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| 16 May 2004
Greg Wagner (ex- ARCHETYPE, BREAKER) updated Mario's Metal Mania on whats going on: "I have broke loose from my production company i was working with. I am now kind of independently doing my own albums now. So for the Germany show (Headbangers Open Air, see LINKS) i am going to compile 15 tracks (2 off of each album) and make a best of Greg Wagner album to bring over. I am financially strained and making 3 to 4 records is just not possible at this time. Also i am also about finished with the website; it is going to be greg wagner.org or .net i will let you know when it is up and running. i will also have business cards,t-shirts,autographed photos,stickers and will be a meet&greet with my fans. can't wait! see you soon my friend" Greg Wagner
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| 16 May 2004
MOTORHEAD's official website (see LINKS) has posted the cover artwork for the band's upcoming album, Inferno. Inferno's cover design was once again courtesy of longtime Motorhead artist Joe Petagno. As previously reported, Inferno, is due out in the US on June 22nd via Sanctuary and will feature the following tracklisting: 'Terminal Show', 'Killers', 'In The Name Of Tragedy', 'Suicide', 'Life's A Bitch', 'Down On Me', 'In The Black', 'Fight', 'In The Year Of The Wolf', 'Keys To The Kingdom', 'Smiling Like A Killer' and 'Whorehouse Blues'.
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| 16 May 2004
Dutch progsters SUN CAGED have issued a statement on their official website (see LINKS) confirming the departure of keyboardist Joost van der Broek for AFTER FOREVER, who replaces Lando van Gils. They have also announced the exit of singer Andre Vuurboom. According to the band, Andre "decided to leave the band since he and Joost worked very closely together…they live in the same town and the distance he has to travel to rehearsals caused him troubles. Joost and Andre want to thank the fans for all their support throughout the years and they hope that the fans will support them with their new bands and projects."
Vuurboom and van der Broek will play their final gig with Sun Caged at the Sweden Rock festival. As it stand now, all scheduled gigs will carry on as planned. The band has begun the search for replacements, and any interested singers or keyboardist's are urged to contact the band at: suncaged@suncaged.com.
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| 16 May 2004
HEART issue their first new studio album in a decade next month. It's called 'Jupiter's Darling'.
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| 16 May 2004
HELLOWEEN-mastermind Michael Weikath denied recent rumours about a reunion with former members Michael Kiske and Kai Hansen. Helloween is currently working on the ‘Keeper Of The Seven Keys 3’-album. “There will be no […] former band members appearing on that record. What a crap idea that would be. This is Helloween and not some kind of metal entertainment circus”, Weikath recently wrote on the official Helloween forum. “An album should be the work of ONE line up, and no kindergarten left and right stuff because of commercial considerations.” The new Keeper-album will carry on where part 2 left off, according to singer Andi Deris in a recent interview. “Actually we called now it was a Keeper 3, continuing the story about the keeper to put the key from the sea. You know exactly the sea of ignorance, but the keeper is a bad guy.” No releasedate was mentioned.
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| 16 May 2004
Reunited classic '80s thrashers HALLOWS EVE have parted ways with singer Steve Cannon.
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| 16 May 2004
DISTANT THUNDER, the new band featuring former HELSTAR/DESTINY'S END and current SEVEN WITCHES frontman James Rivera, will be filming their May 15 appearance at Houston's F.B.I. Club for an upcoming DVD.
In addition, the footage will be shown on Germany's Viva music channel at a later date. Also appearing on the bill will be MERCURY DOWN and WARTORN (featuring former HELSTAR guitarist Mike Heald).
DISTANT THUNDER are scheduled to release their debut album, "Welcome the End", on May 31 through Germany's Massacre Records. The CD was recorded at Spyder Studio in Houston, Texas and was produced by Rivera's SEVEN WITCHES bandmate Jack Frost. The lineup of DISTANT THUNDER also includes SYMPHONY X bassist Mike LePond, Z-LOT-Z's guitar duo, Gregg Gill and Eric Halpern (also former HELSTAR and DESTINY'S END guitarist), and Rick Ward on drums.
In addition to nine new originals, "Welcome the End" also includes a 2004 version of HELSTAR's "Run with the Pack" and ACCEPT's "Restless and Wild".
"Welcome the End" track listing: 01. The Day Upon You 02. I Welcome The End 03. Souless Inventions 04. Hopeless Creator 05. Fire In The Skies 06. Distant Thunder 07. Beyond The Black Field Of Stars 08. Lost In Time 09. Finding My Way 10. Run With The Pack (HELSTAR cover) 11. Restless And Wild (ACCEPT cover)
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| 16 May 2004
EUROPE are currently in the mixing stage for their new studio album, due out sometime this year. The new material is being produced by Kevin Elson, who recorded the band’s 1986 release The Final Countdown.
Upcoming Europe tour dates include:
June
11 – Hamar, Norway at Valset Arena
12 – Sölvesborg, Sweden at Sweden Rock
July
2 – Vizovice, Czech Republic at Masters of Rock
3 – Senec, Slovakia at Masters of Rock
5 – Budapest, Hungary at Petofi Hall
17 – Vaasa, Finland at Rockperry Festival
28 – Denmark at Langelands Festival
31 – Sandefjord, Norway at Baderock Festival
August
7 – Gent, Belgium at Lokerse Feesten
10 – Colmar, France at La Foire Au Vin De Colmar
14 - Murcia, Spain at Lorca Rock
22 – Lutisburg, Switzerland at Tufertschwil
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| 16 May 2004
The official METAL CHURCH website (see LINKS) has revealed the tracklisting for the band’s forthcoming album, "The Weight Of The World", due out this summer.
"The Weight Of The World" tracklisting includes: ‘Leave Them Behind’, ‘The Weight Of The World’, ‘The Hero’s Soul’, ‘Madman’s Overture’, ‘Sunless Sky’, ‘Cradle To Grave’, ‘Wings Of Tomorrow’, ‘Only Time Will Tell’, ‘Bomb To Drop’ and ‘Blood Money’.
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| 16 May 2004
SHADOWKEEP (see LINKS) have begun recording for their third full length album, "Beyond The Stratosphere", at Thin Ice Studio in London, England.
Produced by Carl Groom (THRESHOLD), the new album is expected to be released in September via LMP Records.
Shadowkeep recently announced the return of drummer Scott Higham (ex-ANGEL WITCH).
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| 16 May 2004
Black Lotus Records (Leash Law, Thanatos) have announced that Canadian thrash/death metal act INFERNAL MAJESTY (see LINKS) have signed with the label for the release of their new album, "One Who Points To Death", in Europe, Asia and Oceania.
Black Lotus will release the CD on June 10th.
"One Who Points To Death", already available in Canada via Galy Records, features the following tracklisting: ‘Death Of Heaven’, ‘Pestilential Eternity’, ‘Angels And Acid’, ‘Honey Tongue Of Satan’, ‘Hysterion Proteron’, ‘Cathedral Of Hate’, ‘Virgin Blood Tastes Purest At Night’ and ‘One Who Points To Death’.
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| 16 May 2004
ARCH ENEMY's Japanese label Toy's Factory will release a six track EP entitled "Dead Eyes See No Future" on June 9th to coincide with their upcoming Japanese tour.
The track list is as follows:
'Dead Eyes See No Future' (from Anthems Of Rebellion), 'Burning Angel' (live), 'Heart Of Darkness' (live), 'Kill With Power' (MANOWAR cover), 'Symphony Of Destruction' (MEGADETH cover) and 'Incarnated Solvent Abuse' (CARCASS cover).
Both live tracks were recorded during the band's recent European tour.
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| 16 May 2004
This year's Dynamo Open Air Festival lineup has been finalized as follows:
Stage 1
SLAYER - 21.15 - 22.45
NIGHTWISH - 19.30 - 20.30
LIFE OF AGONY - 18.00 - 19.00
SOULFLY - 16.35 - 17.30
CHILDREN OF BODOM - 15.20 - 16.10
ILL NINO - 14.00 - 14.50
SHADOWS FALL - 13.00 - 13.40
Stage 2
DIMMU BORGIR - 20.15 - 21.15
AGENT STEEL - 18.45 - 19.40
AFTER FOREVER - 17.15 - 18.10
OOMPH! - 16.00 - 16.50
DEICIDE - 14.45 - 15.30
MASATADON - 13.30 - 14.15
Dynamo 2004 will be held at the Goffertpark in Nijmegen, Holland on Saturday June 5. Tickets cost 50 Euros. There is no pre-sale outside of Holland, but there will be plenty tickets for sale on the day.
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| 16 May 2004
A two-disc ZZ TOP career retrospective, "Rancho Texicano": The Very Best Of ZZ Top and a video compilation, ZZ Top - Greatest Hits - The Video Collection, will be released on June 15 through Rhino.
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| 16 May 2004
DIO’s forthcoming new studio album will be titled "Master Of The Moon".
"Master Of The Moon" is currently being recorded and is expected to be released in July through Sanctuary Records in the US and SPV in Europe.
In Dio lineup news, as previously reported, former DOKKEN bassist Jeff Pilson has stepped in to handle bass duties on the new album. Also, bassist Rudy Sarzo (ex-QUIET RIOT/OZZY OSBOURNE/WHITESNAKE) has joined Dio's band. Sarzo, who recently toured with YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, joins the band in time for Dio's European tour, which begins July 16th in Moscow.
The tour dates are as follows:
July
16 - Moscow, Russia at Luzhniki Hall
17 - St. Petersburg, Russia at Jubileny Arena
18 - Helsinki, Finland at Tuska Metalfest
20 - Gothenburg, Sweden at Tradgarden
21 - Karlskoga, Sweden at Kino
23 - Madrid, Spain at Macumba
24 - Pamplona, Spain at Sala Gares
25 - Barcelona, Spain at Razzmatazz
27 - Valencia, Spain at Sala Republicca
28 - TBA
29 - Zaragoza, Spain at Sala Oasis
31 - Vigo, Spain at Venue tbc
August
3 - Worgl, Austria at Komma
4 - Karlsruhe, Germany at Substage
5 - Nurnberg, Germany at Hirsch
6 - Wacken, Germany at Wacken Open Air
7 - Rijssen, Holland at Lucky
9 - Manchester, England at Academy
10 - Glasgow, Scotland at Barrowlands
12 - Birmingham, England at Academy
13 - Folkstone, England at Lees Cliff Hall
14 - London, England at Astoria
15 - Nottingham, England at Rock City
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| 7 May 2004
MOTORHEAD's website has posted this picture of STEVE VAI in the studio with mainman Lemmy. Steve Vai was joining the band in the studio for his guest appearance on the track “Terminal Show”.
As previously reported, Motorhead are scheduled to release their new album, Inferno, in the US on June 22nd via Sanctuary.
Inferno will feature the following tracklisting: 'Terminal Show', 'Killers', 'In The Name Of Tragedy', 'Suicide', 'Life's A Bitch', 'Down On Me', 'In The Black', 'Fight', 'In The Year Of The Wolf', 'Keys To The Kingdom', 'Smiling Like A Killer' and 'Whorehouse Blues'. The cover art for Inferno comes from esteemed artist Joe Petagno.
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| 7 May 2004
NUCLEAR ASSAULT have announced the addition of guitarist Scott Harrington (MINUS, AIMED AGGRESSION) to the group's ranks. Harrington replaces original lead guitarist Anthony Bramante as the only non-original member of the revamped lineup, which includes Danny Lilker on bass, Glenn Evans on drums, and John Connelly on vocals and guitars.
NUCLEAR ASSAULT will be releasing "3rd World Genocide", their first studio album in 10 years, this summer through SPV America/Screaming Ferret Wreckords. Tours of Europe, Japan and the U.S. will follow.
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| 7 May 2004
WITHIN TEMPTATION's long-awaited follow-up to 2000's "Mother Earth" will be released in September through BMG. No further information is currently available.
Upcoming WITHIN TEMPTATION shows:
May 20 - Dauwpop – Hellendoorn, NETH
May 21 - Borstrock - Nieuw Vossemeer (West Brabant), NETH
Jun. 10 - Aerodrome Festival – Vienna, AUT
Jun. 12 - Festival Forever Young - Grootebroek Netherlands
Jun. 18 - Woodstage – Glauchau, GER
Jun. 19 - Waldrock – Burgum, NETH
Jun. 25 - South Side Festival – Tuttlingen, GER
Jun. 26 - Hurricane Festival - Scheessel GER
Jul. 02 - Roskilde Festival –Roskilde, DEN
Jul. 18 - Zillo Festival - St Goarhausen, GER
Jul. 24 - Natuurtheater De Kersouwe – Heeswijk, NETH
Aug. 07 - M'era Luna – Hildesheim, GER
Aug. 20 - Nirwana Festival – Lierop, NETH
Sep. 18 - Pisart Festival - Eijsden, NETH
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| 7 May 2004
Progressive instrumentalists PLANET X have parted ways with longtime guitarist Tony MacAlpine. MacAlpine played on the band's first three albums, "Universe" (2000), "Live in Oz" (2002) and "Moon Babies" (2002). Keyboardist Derek Sherinian (ex-DREAM THEATER, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN) and drummer Virgil Donati have already announced Tony's replacement — T.J. Helmerich. The trio have been working on new material "for several weeks now," according to a posting on the band's web site. "T.J.'s unique approach to the guitar and his blistering two handed tapping technique will bring an exciting new character to the PLANET X sound."
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| 7 May 2004
AGNOSTIC FRONT recently spent time in at Planet Z studio in Massachusetts with producer Jamey Jasta (HATEBREED) recording their new album, tentatively titled "Another Voice". "It is easily the hardest, meanest and nastiest of our recordings ever," vocalist Roger Miret stated in a recent online posting. The group's current lineup consists of Miret, Vinnie Stigma (guitar), Lenny DiSclafani (guitar), Steve Gallo (drums) and Mike Gallo (bass).
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| 7 May 2004
BEHEMOTH entered Hendrix studios in Poland on May 2nd to begin tracking their highly anticipated new album "Demigod". This is the follow up to their acclaimed offering "Zos Kia Cultus (Here and Beyond)".
Inferno (drums) states; "I've never worked on better equipment in my life...it seems like we've never been so well prepared. Wait and see, Demigod's going to have the most technical, intense and inhuman drum parts ever used in this band`s history.
Nergal (vocals, guitars) describes the recording process thus far; "We have completed 11 new tunes and it's the strongest shit we've ever come up with. I feel very excited, the band feels excited and we can’t wait to lay the tracks down. I'm pretty sure we'll have to spill the blood and sweat, but what you will get in the end is the most devastating BEHEMOTH album ever and that's a promise. No bullshit here. It's just a totally blasting, heavy and unstoppable machine. That's what we are all about. On this album we will exclusively use our new new guitar endorsements with Polish Mayones (www.mayones.com) and American Dean (www.deanguitars.com) we're bringing some fresh sounds into the songs and bring up the quality level as well. Song titles set to appear on Demigod are: 'Sculpturing The Throne ov Seth', 'Nephilim Rising', 'XUL', 'Conquer All', 'Demigod', 'Dreams Shall Flesh', 'Mysterium Coniunctionis'."
BEHEMOTH will kick off with worldwide tour starting in Europe on October 21st. The trek, dubbed the Clash of the Demigods European Tour 2004 will also feature KRISIUN and INCANTATION. Later on Behemoth will team up with PUNGENT STENCH to play about ten shows in The Czech Republic and Slovakia. In December they will do their debut headlining tour in South America and a mini tour in Mexico. Demigod is set for a fall release and a full North American tour is planned for early 2005.
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| 7 May 2004
AOR Heaven sub-label Metal Heaven have inked a deal with MILLENIUM for the territories of Germany, Austria, Switzerland (GAS), Benelux and Sweden.
The band’s new studio album,"Jericho", will be released on July 19th, and brings us the return of original singer Todd Plant (EYEWITNESS, CRYPTIC VISION) who has replaced Jorn Lande (MASTERPLAN) on vocals.
Musically, the band - centered around guitarist Ralph Santolla (now playing with ICED EARTH) - tends into a much heavier direction than on the album's predecessors.
Jericho features the following tracklisting: ‘My Saving Grace’, ‘Heaven Awaits’, ‘My War’, ‘Heresy’, ‘Morning Star’, ‘Above This World’, ‘Enemy Of The Sun’, ‘Wheel Of Fortune’, ‘Let There Be Light’ and ‘Burning Again’.
Millenium 2004 are: Todd Plant (vocals), Ralph Santolla (guitar), Shane French (guitar), Steve McKenna (bass), Tere Bertke (bass) and Mike Prator (drums).
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| 7 May 2004
Said to be in the in the tradition of his former band HELSTAR , singer James Rivera will see his new DISTANT THUNDER (see LINKS) album released through Massacre Records on May 31st. Entitled "Welcome The End", the album is an uncompromising metal album done in the spirit of Helstar, not a ballad in sight.
The album is produced by Seven Witches guitarist/founder Jack Frost.
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| 7 May 2004
According to a posting on their website (see LINKS), legendary German thrashers DESTRUCTION have fulfilled their five-year contract with Nuclear Blast. The band say that they "Are now looking forward to extend and maybe renew the contract with the label from Donzdorf, Germany (Nuclear Blast). Of course this serious step will take some time. Other labels are also interested in the future activities of the Thrash Masters from Germany, so if this cooperation won´t continue, we will surely keep you informed. If there should be any changes in the near future of your favorite Thrash Band, you will hear them first HERE on YOUR side!!! No decisions have been made yet. Stay tuned..."
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| 7 May 2004
VINDIKATION, featuring guitarist Jim Williams (ex-STEEL PROPHET), vocalist Jason McCrarey (SANCTUS), drummer Karl Rosqvist and keyboardist Rob Rampley have issued the following message via their official website:
“Final mix and mastering of Chamber Of Discontent has been completed by engineer Erik Norlander. The recording contains 10 tracks with a running time of 45 minutes. The release date for Chamber of Discontent is set for the summer of 2004. Song samples from the new CD are available at our website (see LINKS)”
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| 7 May 2004
RAVEN singer/bassist John Gallagher has issued the following update via the Loonie Board section of the band’s official website (see LINKS):
“Hi!!! while we continue to futz around collecting more cool footage for our DVD (for example, got killer footage from the last show... really powerful stuff..) I just want to tell you about a DVD thats come out of the UK called For The Future which is a must-have - filmed by the BBC back in 1982, we did 4 songs live at Newcastle University - this has been available on bootleg in horrible quality.. but this is mint!!!
Songs are ‘For The Future’, ‘Crash Bang Wallop’, ‘Rock Until You Drop’ and ‘Chainsaw’. As far as buying it - dunno about stores but it is up on ebay - check it out!!!
Cheers, John.”
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| 7 May 2004
Harry "Tyrant" Conklin has left the ranks of Arizona metallers BALLISTIC due to his inability to tour at this time.
"Musically, we were all getting along great, in fact, couldn't be better,"said mainman Tom Gattis in a statement. "But unfortunately non-musical circumstances have made it impossible for Harry to travel with us outside the country."
Harry's replacement is East Coast screamer Tony Taylor (TWISTED TOWER DIRE, ISEN TORR, OCTOBER 31). Taylor has no intentions of leaving Twisted Tower Dire, but is very excited to be joining Ballistic.
"Ballistic really gives me a chance to explore new directions vocally and to push myself to new limits," Tony said. "The band is amazing and is like a 'fist to the face' with chainsaw guitars and an unbelievable rhythm section. Hold on to your fucking hats!"
Ballistic is completed by Rikard Stjernquist (JAG PANZER) on drums, Tim O'Conner (DEUCE) on bass and the Bulgarian shredder Peter Petev on guitar.
The band will be playing at The Mason Jar in Phoenix, Arizona on June 6th (with GRAVE DIGGER), a Bang Your Head warm-up show in Balingen, Germany on June 24th, and at the Bang Your Head festival on June 26th.
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| 7 May 2004
LABYRINTH’s singer Roberto Tiranti's (formerly Rob Tyrant) official homepage in now up and running. You'll find all the latest news about his forthcoming solo album and vital statistics about the vocalist at http://www.robertotiranti.com/.
Note: It helps if you can read Italian, as the site is in Italian only, at least for now.
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| 7 May 2004
Due to the ever-popular "musical differences", French bashers HEAVENLY have seen the departure of guitarist Frederic Leclerq, bassist Pierre Emmanuel Pelisson and drummer Maxence Pilo. The remaining two members of the band, singer Sotto and guitarist Corbiaux, claim to have found replacements and have started working on the band's next album.
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| 7 May 2004
CANNIBAL CORPSE guitarist Jack Owen has quit the band. The posting on their website adds: "We are currently working with a replacement. All scheduled concerts will still take place. Check back for a more detailed statement in the days to come."
Jack Owen has been with the band since their 1990 Metal Blade debut,"Eaten Back To Life".
Jack issued the following statement: "After 15 years with Cannibal Corpse, I've decided to leave the group. My heart just wasn't in it anymore, and it was reflected in my appearance on stage. Times change, and I just don't enjoy the music as much as I used to, and the only thing keeping me in the band was steady work, and the pay. These things makes it unfair to myself, my band members, and especially the fans. I'd like to thank all the members of Cannibal Corpse, past and present, for sharing in the conquest of an entire genre of music. I wish the band continued success...“
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| 7 May 2004
GARY MOORE will be releasing a new album, "Power Of The Blues", on June 7th through Sanctuary. Backing the former THIN LIZZY axeman up are drummer Darrin Mooney and ex-OZZY OSBOURNE bassist Bob Daisley. Daisley last played with Gary on the "Still Got The Blues" album in 1990, after being a regular band member live and on record, throughout the 1980's.
The album is produced by Chris Tsangarides, perhaps best remembered for his work with JUDAS PRIEST, and will feature a cover of the Willie Dixon blues classic made famous by LED ZEPPELIN, ‘I Can’t Quit You Babe’.
The full tracklisting for Power Of The Blues is as follows: 'Power Of The Blues' (Moore/Daisley/Mooney), 'There's A Hole' (Moore), 'Tell Me Woman' (Moore), 'I Can't Quit You Baby' (Willie Dixon), 'That's Why I Play The Blues' ( Moore), 'Evil' (Willie Dixon), 'Getaway Blues' (Moore/Daisley/Mooney), 'Memory Pain' (Mayfield), 'Can't Find My Baby' (Moore), 'Torn Inside' (Moore).
Power Of The Blues is Moore's 23rd solo album. Moore says of Power Of The Blues: "This is rawest album I've done for many years, maybe the rawest ever."
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| 7 May 2004
ANNIHILATOR’s new EP, "The One", has been released as a warm-up to the full length "All For You" album, due out on May 21st. "The One" features the non-album cut ‘Weapon X’ and live footage from the band’s performance at last year’s Earthshaker Festival. A video for ‘All For You’ has been made and is expected to hit stations for airplay in the last week of May.
Annihilator will be opening for JUDAS PRIEST on selected shows of their European tour.
They include:
June:
2 – Stadionsporthalle, Hannover (Germany)
6 – Festhalle, Ruegerholz (Swizterland)
8 – Arena, Berlin (Germany)
13 – Arena, Oberhausen (Germany)
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| 30 April 2004
Thrash metal veterans HIRAX's latest studio album, "The New Age of Terror", will be released May 18 on Black Devil Records and Deep Six Records on CD and limited-edition picture-disc formats.
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| 30 April 2004
EXCITER's upcoming album, "New Testament - Coven Of Rerecorded Classics" will be released in North America on June 22nd through The End Records, licensed from Osmose in France. As previously reported, 16 tracks were rerecorded for the release (ten classic, five current) from all eras of Exciter.
The band recorded the following tracks: Oblivion II (new track), 'Violence & Force', 'Stand Up And Fight', 'Heavy Metal Maniac', 'Pounding Metal', 'Dark Command', 'Ritual Death', 'Long Live The Loud', 'Victims Of Sacrifice', 'Brutal Warning', 'Rising Of The Dead', 'Black Witch (featuring Ricci's 12-string classical guitar intro), 'Rain Of Terror', 'I Am The Beast', 'Burn At The Stake' and 'Rule With An Iron Fist'.
The material for the album was recorded at L.S. Studios in Ottawa with producer Manfred Leidecker. EXCITER guitarist John Ricci says that "the title reflects a new beginning for the band."
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| 30 April 2004
FLOTSAM AND JETSAM have set a June 22 release date through the Cleopatra label for their long-awaited live DVD, according to an online posting by drummer Craig Nielsen. The as-yet-untitled disc is expected to include footage of the band performing at the Bash On Ash in Tempe, Arizona last July.
DVD track listing:
01. No Place For Disgrace
02. Hammerhead
03. Secret Square
04. Escape From Within
05. Nothing To Say
06. Chemical Noose
07. Hard On You
08. Wading Through The Darkness
09. Swatting At Flies
10. Me
11. The Master Sleeps
12. Trash
13. Dig Me Up To Bury Me
In other news, FLOTSAM AND JETSAM are in the process of finalizing a new record deal that will see the group releasing a new CD sometime next year. "Rest assured that the new record will leave all FLOTSAM fans with either wet undies, or a sticky sweatsock," says Nielsen.
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| 30 April 2004
Dutch black metallers SAURON completed their new effort “For A Dead Race” due for release in September.
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| 30 April 2004
TWISTED SISTER have inked a deal with Demolition Records. The reformed New York rockers will release their "Still Hungry" epic on July 26. Issued on the new DVD 4 format, "Still Hungry" will feature a 12-camera shoot of the band's performance at Germany's Wacken Open Air together with interview and documentary footage, detailing the band's decision to reform back in 2002. The flip side of the DVD 4 (a unique element to this new format) will feature the 2004 re-recording of the band's multi-million seller, and biggest album to date, "Stay Hungry".
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| 30 April 2004
Metal Heaven signed MILLENIUM. The new studio album "Jericho" will see the light of day on July 19th, 2004 and brings us the return of original singer Todd Plant (EYEWITNESS, CRYPTIC) who has replaced Jorn Lande (MASTERPLAN) on the mic. Musically, the band is centered around six string Ralph Santolla (ICED EARTH, ex-DEATH).
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| 30 April 2004
The new FLESH MADE SIN album “Dawn Of The Stillborn” will be recorded in June. A September release is expected, although the band are still looking for a suitable label.
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| 30 April 2004
James Rivera, the Texas based veteran of HELSTAR and DESTINY'S END has formed a new outfit, DISTANT THUNDER, which he considers the continuation of the legendary Helstar. In addition to diminutive singer, the lineup includes the Z-Lot-Z guitar tandem of Eric Halpern and Gregg Gill, Mike LePond (bass, SYMPHONY X) and Rick Ward (drums).
Their debut album, "Welcome The End" was produced by fellow SEVEN WITCHES alumni, JACK FROST. Both reassure fans that Distant Thunder will not affect Rivera's participation in future Witches output, nor live dates. In addition to the re-recorded Helstar classic, 'Run With The Pack', the band recorded a rendition of 'Restless And Wild' (ACCEPT). The complete tracklisting is as follows:‘The Day Upon You’, ‘I Welcome The End’, ‘Souless Inventions’, ‘Helpless Creator’, ‘Fire In The Skies’, ‘Distant Thunder’ (instrumental), ‘Beyond The Black Field Of Stars’, ‘Lost In Time’, ‘Finding My Way’, ‘Run With The Pack’, ‘Restless And Wild’.
Massacre Records in Germany has scheduled the release this summer. The CD was recorded in James’ home town, Houston, TX, at Spyder Studio.
A statement from James himself explains the Distant Thunder concept. “'Welcome the End’ is a concept from tracks one through seven that tie in the whole meaning behind the Helstar name and continues its chapters from some of the songs off the first three records. The album cover for ‘Welcome the End’ now brings out the character who has always represented Helstar. Within Destiny’s End’s two-album career, only one song carried my science fiction creation, which was ‘The Watcher’ and out of that song, lyrics were used to title five of the concept songs for ‘Welcome The End’. Musically, Distant Thunder has produced the most extraordinary emotions and thoughts, which delivered my story lines with complete feeling, plus naturally allowed me to cover new territory vocal wise. The meaning and concept of each song sound like what they are about and are very visual. The other two tracks not apart of the concept, ‘Lost In Time’ and ‘Finding My Way’, have a slight noticeable difference upon first listen and a very strong lyrical content. In this world, you either never find out what the hell you want and what it takes to obtain it, or you just face the fact that the whole meaning of life was never meant to be a simple task and the more you follow your dreams, the more your inner fears disappear.”
Distant Thunder will be making its European debut in November of 2004. Specific dates will be announced later. James will be back in the studio with Seven Witches in May for his second Sanctuary Records release with the group. Then back on tour with Seven Witches in June.
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| 30 April 2004
NEVERMORE have issued the following message via their official website (see LINKS):
“After touring since 1995 with a number of different guitarists in the second slot Nevermore are happy to announce that we have added Steve Smyth on a permanent basis, the revolving door has been retired! After awhile touring with Steve it became obvious to us that he was the missing link in our dysfunctional brotherhood! So now we approach the future officially as a five piece band!”
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| 30 April 2004
MOTORHEAD plan to release their new CD, a 12-track album titled "Inferno", from Sanctuary/Metal-Is on June 22nd. Taking over from Howard Benson, Cameron Webb does production duties, and longtime band artist Joe Petagno has contributed what drummer Mikkey Dee calls "the best cover we ever had throughout the history of Motörhead, [and] an album that is going to go right along with it."
According to Mikkey Dee; "I don't think Lemmy's been writing melodies this good ever, and Phil's playing his ass off, and I'm also doing a couple of tricks or two."
Lemmy describes the new album's atmosphere as "humid in the extreme," while guitarist Phil Campbell says, "I'm quite excited about it. I think it's really good."
The album tracklist is: 'Terminal Show', 'Smiling Like A Killer', 'In The Year Of The Wolf', 'Life's A Bitch', 'Keys To The Kingdom', 'Down On Me', 'Fight', 'In The Name Of Tragedy', 'Suicide', 'The Killers', 'I'm In The Black' and 'Whorehouse Blues', the last song being an acoustic number.
Motorhead tour behind Inferno beginning in May. From the first weekend of June until the end of August (the CD arrives in stores June 22nd), the band plays the big European festivals. After that, it's the U.S. for September and half of October, followed by the big European tour for the latter half of October, all of November and half of December.
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| 30 April 2004
HANKER (see LINKS) have announced the tracklisting for their forthcoming new album, "Web Of Faith".
Tracks set to appear on the release include: ‘Empower’, ‘Inside Me’, ‘Stigmata’, ‘Let Me Out’, ‘Do Or Die’, ‘Between The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea’, ‘The Search’, ‘Under Cover Of Darkness’, ‘Face To Face’, ‘Point Of No Return’, ‘The Huntsman’ and ‘Web Of Faith’.
The band is currently working on the cover art and expect to release the new album in May through Skyscraper Music.
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| 30 April 2004
JAG PANZER guitarist Chris Broderick to issue instructional DVD:
The following update regarding guitarist Chris Broderick’s upcoming instructional DVD has been posted at JAG PANZER’s official website (see LINKS):
“The intent of this video is to have both technical and theoretical ideas paralleling each other while becoming more advanced.
Unfortunately the scope of this video will only cover tonal or key based soloing, I was originally going to cover altered scales, but the scope of this DVD would get too big (maybe I'll save that for another DVD?)
General topics Covered: 1. Warm ups, 2. Keys, Modes, 3. Scale fragments, 4. Intervals, 5. Seventh arpeggios.
Remember that all illustrations are not just Leads for you to learn as technical tools, but meant as a learning tool for you to expand upon and manipulate so that you construct new ideas of your own.The DVD is due out mid to late summer & will feature outtakes, bonus material & plenty of live footage!
Chris Broderick.”
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| 30 April 2004
TESTAMENT guitarist Eric Peterson has issued the following update:
"We have parted ways with guitarist Steve Smyth. The split was amicable, and we wish him the best!"
Testament would like to announce that "Metal Mike" Chlasciak (PAINMUSEUM, ex-HALFORD) will be handling lead guitar duties for the European festivals scheduled this summer.
In other news, the new Testament is being written and recorded and will surely be worth the wait.
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| 30 April 2004
DIO's website (see LINKS) has confirmed that bassist Rudy Sarzo (ex-QUIET RIOT/OZZY OSBOURNE/WHITESNAKE) has joined Dio's band. Sarzo, who recently toured with YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, joins the band in time for Dio's European tour, which begins July 16th in Moscow.
The tour dates are as follows:
July
16 - Moscow, Russia at Luzhniki Hall
17 - St. Petersburg, Russia at Jubileny Arena
18 - Helsinki, Finland at Tuska Metalfest
20 - Gothenburg, Sweden at Tradgarden
21 - Karlskoga, Sweden at Kino
23 - Madrid, Spain at Macumba
24 - Pamplona, Spain at Sala Gares
25 - Barcelona, Spain at Razzmatazz
27 - Valencia, Spain at Sala Republicca
28 - TBA
29 - Zaragoza, Spain at Sala Oasis
31 - Vigo, Spain at Venue tbc
August
3 - Worgl, Austria at Komma
4 - Karlsruhe, Germany at Substage
5 - Nurnberg, Germany at Hirsch
6 - Wacken, Germany at Wacken Open Air
7 - Rijssen, Holland at Lucky
9 - Manchester, England at Academy
10 - Glasgow, Scotland at Barrowlands
12 - Birmingham, England at Academy
13 - Folkstone, England at Lees Cliff Hall
14 - London, England at Astoria
15 - Nottingham, England at Rock City
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| 30 April 2004
WHITESNAKE frontman David Coverdale is reportedly sifting through material recorded on the band’s last tour and picking the best tracks for a double live album. Coverdale has material from 60 shows to choose from.
The album will likely contain 14 songs, with a release planned for August.
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| 30 April 2004
FATES WARNING's drummer Mark Zonder will be leaving the band following the recording of their next album. Zonder's replacement has not been decided on yet.
The new album, Fates Warning's 10th record, is tentatively entitled "FWX". Work is proceeding and mixing is expected to take place in late June. If all goes according to plan the album will likely be released in October.
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| 23 April 2004
American prog-metal legends HEIR APPARENT have announced the addition of former NIGHTSHADE drummer Jeffrey McCormack to the group's ranks. The band are currently working on material for their first studio effort in nearly a decade, and will be performing a few shows stateside before the disc is released.
The group's current lineup is as follows:
Peter Orullian: Vocals
Terry Gorle: Guitars
Bobby Ferkovich: Bass
Op Sakiya: Keys
Jeffrey McCormack: Drums
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| 23 April 2004
GIRLSCHOOL's first two albums — 1980's "Demolition" and 1981's "Hit and Run" — will be released on CD for the first time on June 14 through Sanctuary Records. The releases coincide with a full U.K. tour by the band, who will also release a brand new album in June.
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| 23 April 2004
Irene Jansen, the sister of AFTER FOREVER singer Floor Jansen, is perhaps best known for singing with STAR ONE on their 2002 tour. Since that time she has been working with her own band, KARMA, and an album release is expected later this year.
With music geared in a SYMPHONY X-ish direction, present and potential fans can check out three demo tracks - 'Calling Isis', 'Atlantis' and 'New Dawn' - online at the band's official website (see LINKS).
Irene Jansen can currently be heard singing on the new AYREON album The Human Equation, playing the role of Passion.
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| 23 April 2004
A few days prior to the April 19th release of their debut album, "Dogface", LEASH LAW released a single for the the song 'Stealing Grace'. Along with two album cuts - the other being 'Banion' - the single features a live unplugged version of 'Stealing Grace' and mpg video footage of an acoustic IRON MAIDEN medley ('Revelations'/'Children Of The Damned') performed by singer Wade Black and guitarist Rick Renstrom. Both were recorded live at the Texas Club in Athens, Greece.
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| 23 April 2004
TESTAMENT have split with guitarist Steve Smyth. The band are now in search of a replacement to fill in on their upcoming European tour dates.
Word has it that Smyth has left the band to join NEVERMORE permanently. He has been playing with Nevermore in a session/touring guitarist capacity for the last couple of years.
Reports say that guitarist “Metal” Mike Chlasciak (PAINMUSEUM, ex-HALFORD) could be Smyth’s replacement in Testament.
More details on this situation as they become available.
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| 23 April 2004
MARDUK will be entering a yet undecided studio during the summer to record their ninth full length album. The album will also contain one track that is the product of the cooperation between Marduk and the band ARDITI, a band whose music can be best described as militant and industrial.
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| 23 April 2004
SINISTER drummer Aad Kloosterwaard has posted the following statement at the band's website (see LINKS) regarding their break-up: "After 16 years of serving, SINISTER is no more....
It was a hard decision for me,Sinister was a way of life for me. But sitting behind the drumkit for almost 20 years and having a fulltime job is hard for me to combine. Of course I would love to give up my job, because I hate going to work everyday, but that’s impossible..you probably know why.
First I was thinking doing vocals together with Rachel (Heyzer) but that wasn’t an option - thinking of someone else behind the drums, no way! Also Ron (van de Polder - guitar) is to busy. It was or Sinister or Infinited Hate. It was a hard decision to quit Sinister and drumming believe me.
I had a great time to record "Revel In bloodshed", the upcoming album of my new band INFINITED HATE together with Rachel and Ron. If you listen to Infinited Hate, you’ll hear Sinister. Thanks to all the die hard SINISTER fans all over the World! We hope that Infinited Hate will bring you as much as brutality as Sinister!"
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| 23 April 2004
Florida's death metal maniacs MALEVOLENT CREATION have completed their ninth studio album, entitled "Warcult". Said to be the band's most diverse and punishing record to date, "Warcult" was recorded at Liquid Ghost Recording Studio in Boca Raton, FL, by Phil Plaskon, produced and mixed by producer Jean Francois Degenais (KATAKLYSM) and mastered by Bernard Belley in Montreal, Canada.
The album also marks the return of long time drummer Dave Culross to the line up.
"Warcult" will be released on June 28th across Europe, in the USA and other territories about a month later.
Tracklist: 'Dead March', 'Pre-emtive Strike', 'Supremacy Through Annihilation', 'Murder Reigns', 'Captured', 'Merciless', 'Section 8', 'On Grounds Of Battle', 'Tyrannic Oppression', 'Ravaged By Conflict', 'Shock And Awe' and bonus track 'Jack The Ripper' (cover song from Australian cult thrash gods HOBBS ANGEL OF DEATH).
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| 23 April 2004
According to a posting at the official KING DIAMOND website (see LINKS), guitarist Andy LaRocque and singer King Diamond will mix the group’s forthcoming live album in May and expect the album to be released in September or October via Metal Blade.
A posting at the site reads, “Still no details are known at the moment such as album title, if it's going to be 2 CD etc. Andy told me however that most of the song the band played on the USA tour will be on the album. More news as we have it!!”
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| 23 April 2004
According to ex- VIRGIN STEELE guitarist Jack Starr’s official website (www.jackstarr.com), his band, GUARDIANS OF THE FLAME are currently in search of a vocalist.
A posting at the site reads: “If you are a talented heavy metal singer and have been waiting for the right chance, the time is now! Jack Starr is auditioning singers for his next album to be released on Magic Circle Music. If you want to become one of the Guardians Of The Flame please submit your demo material to: Magic Circle Music - PO Box 7214 - Auburn, NY - 13022 - USA.”
Guardians Of The Flame plan to release a new album through Magic Circle Music this year.
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| 23 April 2004
VOIVOD's Michel "Away" Langevin recently played session drums on Montreal band POXY's debut. Poxy is made up of, amongst others, Xavier Cafeine who fronted successful french punk band CAFEINE during the late '90s. Poxy's self-titled debut is in stores now.
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| 23 April 2004
CHILDREN OF BODOM have finished recording new material for their upcoming EP-release. The recording was done at Astia Studio with long time COB producer Anssi Kippo and mixed by Mikko Karmila at Finnvox Studios.
A summer release is planned for the EP, entitled "Trashed, Lost & Strungout". It will include two new songs, a couple of cover versions and "a lot of extras."
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| 23 April 2004
MOTORHEAD have confirmed "Inferno" as the title of their forthcoming album, set for release on June 22nd in North America and June 21 in Europe through Sanctuary. According to the band's website, the cover is again being provided by esteemed artist Joe Petagno.
"Inferno" will feature the following tracklisting: ‘Terminal Show’, ‘Killers’, ‘In The Name Of Tragedy’, ‘Suicide’, ‘Life's A Bitch’, ‘Down On Me’, ‘In The Black’, ‘Fight’, ‘In The Year Of The Wolf’, ‘Keys To The Kingdom’, ‘Smiling Like A Killer’ and ‘Whorehouse Blues’.
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| 23 April 2004
REQUIEM AETERNAM has announced that Alex Hernández, known for his excellent work in IMMOLATION, has joined the band to lay down the drum tracks for their upcoming album, "Philosopher".
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| 16 April 2004
The Keep it True festival in Germany (see LINKS) has just ended last weekend and now their are already 6 bands announced for the next episode to take place later this year (6 November 2004) at the same location (Tauberfrankenhalle, Lauda-Konigshofen)
The bands that are confirmed: HELSTAR, JAGUAR, ROTTWEILER, TYRANT'S REIGN, WITCHFYNDE, METAL INQUISITOR
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| 16 April 2004
JAG PANZER have revealed that their forthcoming studio album will be called "Casting The Stones". Guitarist Mark Briody adds: "About half of the album is written and so far it sounds like a more aggressive version of "Mechanized Warfare" (2001)." Casting The Stones is being produced by Jim Morris at Morrisound Studios and will feature artwork by Mattias Noren. The album will be released worldwide on Century Media Records in September 2004.
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| 16 April 2004
MSG will release a new album with his own band in late 2004. Here's an update:
“The next MSG studio album will be available by the end of the year as a 2005 release on Michael's own label GOOTT Records. This release is to celebrate 25 years of MSG and will only be sold 1 copy per person and will feature original singers. More about it in the near future.”
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| 16 April 2004
Swedish thrashers THE HAUNTED finished the recordings of their new studio album and they posted the following update:
"We have now finished the recording at Studio Fredman and right now we're preparing for the mixing session. The mixing will be handled by Charlie Storm here in Gothenburg. We've have worked with this guy on a number of occasions and we all like his work. I guess we'll have the final product in two weeks or so - can't wait."
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| 16 April 2004
TWISTED SISTER guitarist J.J. French posted the following when asked if they will ever do a real tour:
"We play when we can. Enjoy it if we come to your town. We only play 15-20 shows per year world-wide. In reality, the band has personal and professional obligations that absolutely prevent us from playing more then weekends twice a month. We all agreed that this was our situation and we play based on this agreement. I will never say never but I don't see how this will ever change. Like I said, enjoy this while you can because this will not continue indefinitely."
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| 16 April 2004
DECREPIT BIRTH have posted the following message at their official website (www.decrepitbirth.com):
“We would like to officially announce that bassist Derek Boyer has left Decrepit Birth to join the mighty SUFFOCATION as their full time bassist. We wish him the best of luck while playing in one of the best extreme bands of all time. Derek remains a close friend of ours, and we thank him for all of his efforts and contributions while he was part of our band.”
SUFFOCATION recently completed work on the first music video from their forthcoming new album, "Souls to Deny". The video, for the song 'Surgery Of Impalement', was filmed at Philadelphia's Eastern State Penitentiary.
"Souls to Deny" will be released on April 27th in North America and on May 17th in Europe via Relapse.
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| 16 April 2004
Once a side project for ex-LABYRINTH guitarist Olaf Thorsen and RHAPSODY singer Fabio Leone, VISION DIVINE has returned with its third album, "Stream Of Consciousness", and a new vocalist. Thorsen explained why Leone was forced to bow out:
“For the first two albums Fabio always gave 100% to Vision Divine, but because I left Labyrinth and decided to focus on Vision Divine I wanted to create an image of a real band. I don’t think this would have been a problem for Fabio, but Rhapsody recently signed with new management and he didn’t take care that there would be room for a career with Vision Divine at the same time. He told me everything was fine, but when I saw the contract there was nothing mentioning Vision Divine, and I figured it might cause some major problems in the future. It’s a sad thing, but the best thing to do was to have Fabio leave, in the interest of both bands and our friendship.”
Leone has been replaced by Michele Luppi, who has worked previously as an Italian pop rock session player. According to Thorsen, Vision Divine is Luppi’s first metal experience.
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| 16 April 2004
GARY MOORE will be releasing a new album, "Power Of The Blues", on June 7th through BMG. Backing Moore up are drummer Darrin Mooney and ex-Ozzy Osbourne bassist Bob Daisley. The album will be produced by Chris Tsangarides, perhaps best remembered for his work with JUDAS PRIEST, and will feature a cover of the Willie Dixon blues classic made famous by LED ZEPPELIN, ‘I Can’t Quit You Babe’.
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| 16 April 2004
The 2004 Dynamo Open Air festival (www.dynamo.nl) which will take place on Saturday, June 5th at Goffertpark in Nijmegen, Holland has announced the addition of Dutch gothic metal sensation AFTER FOREVER to the bill.
A total of 13 bands will appear, 10 have been confirmed so far:
SLAYER, NIGHTWISH, LIFE OF AGONY, SOULFLY, DIMMU BORGIR, AFTER FOREVER, ILL NIÑO, CHILDREN OF BODOM, DEICIDE, MASTODON.
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| 16 April 2004
Following the success of their self-titled monster debut, MASTERPLAN (featuring singer Jorn Lande and ex-HELLOWEEN members Roland Grapow and Uli Kusch) have secured the services of famed producer Roy Z (Bruce Dickinson, HALFORD) for the follow-up. No word as to when work will commence or a timeframe for release just yet, but i’ll keep you posted.
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| 16 April 2004
Singer Zak Stevens is currently hard at work at Morrisound Studios with his CIRCLE II CIRCLE bandmates on the follow-up to the debut, "Watching In Silence". A release is planned for Autumn 2004. An EP with diverse bonus material will be made available a few months prior to the album release.
In the meantime, the band is confirmed as playingthe following dates:
25.06.04 Dessel Belgium / Graspop Festival
26.06.04 München Germany / Garage De luxe
27.06.04 Affalter Germany / Zur Linde
28.06.04 Bochum Germany / Zeche
29.06.04 Weert Germany / De Bosuil
30.06.04 Aschaffenburg Germany / Colos - Saal
01.07.04 Pratteln Switzerland / Z 7
02.07.04 Nehren Germany / Motoradfreunde W/Saxon
03.07.04 Andernach Germany / JUZ
04.07.04 Istanbul Turkey / Rock The Nation Festival
06.07.04 Athens Greece / 2004 Metal Festival
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| 16 April 2004
NOSTRADAMEUS are working on their new CD, "Hellbound", in the well-known Roasting House Studio in Malmo, Sweden. The album is tentatively scheduled for an August release and is said to be “a little harder and more uncompromising than its predecessor.”
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| 16 April 2004
BEHEMOTH will start recording their forthcoming album, "Demigod", in two weeks. Here's the latest update: "Last week we started rehearsing with in full line up with session guitarist Seth (known from death metal band NOMAD). New songs sound killer now! There are still some songs to be finished but we wanna keep the whole creative process a bit spontaneous so we give it a bit of improvisation. It's sure now that album will include regular 10 songs. It's also quite possible that we'll re record some of the older stuff, from Grom era...we will see. We are thinking of recording some cover tunes too, it became some kind of tradition so...we thought of DANZIG and BLASPHEMY but haven't really decided anything yet. Expect more surprises to come...we are thinking of some extraordinary ideas for Demigod."
"Demigod" is due out in the fall through Regain Records in Europe), Century Media in North and South America and Mystic in Poland.
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| 16 April 2004
Former ICED EARTH band members Gene Adam (vocals), Dave Abell (Bass) and Mark Prator (drummer) are working with guitarist Bill Owen on a new project called UNEARTHED. They are currently shopping a two song demo to record labels featuring the tracks ‘Fire In the Sky’ and ‘Unearthed’. As with Iced Earth, Prator will only be behind the kit in the studio; a drummer will be brought in for live shows.
“Mark is a fantastic drummer and has a great studio,” Gene explains. “We worked long and hard on the songs and we wanted to record them, so it made sense to ask him to play for us. We’d love to have him come out and play with us live, but between his own Red Room Studio and working at Morrisound he’s way too busy.”
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| 16 April 2004
ANGEL DUST posted the following on their official website (www.angel-dust.de):
"As anounced Angel Dust are already busy with the songwriting for the new CD. Also nothing will change at the Line Up (Dirk, Assy, Steven) for this time. A new guitarist and a new bass player are employed therefore at the earliest for the recordings. Therefore there will not be any shows probably until then.
At this place still once a lot of thanks to all that supported us until today and believed in us in spite of the whole trouble in the last months (Sorry !!!)"
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| 16 April 2004
Hells Headbangers Records (www.hellsheadbangers.com) have posted the artwork for the forthcoming LP release of SLAUGHTER’s "Fuck Of Death" album.
Due for release this summer in conjunction with NunSlaughter Records (www.nunslaughter.com) the release will feature Slaughter’s rehearsal recordings with the late Chuck Schuldiner (DEATH).
More info on the upcoming limited edition LP (500 copies) will be available soon.
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| 16 April 2004
The Texas based veteran of HELSTAR & DESTINY'S END has formed a new outfit, DISTANT THUNDER, which he considers the continuation of the legendary Helstar. In addition to diminutive singer, the lineup includes the Z-Lot-Z guitar tandem of Eric Halpern and Gregg Gill, Mike LePond (bass, Symphony X) and Rick Ward (drums).
"Welcome The End" was produced by fellow Seven Witches alumni, Jack Frost. Both reassure fans that Distant Thunder will not affect Rivera's participation in future Witches output, nor live dates. In addition to the re-recorded Helstar classic, 'Run With The Pack', the band recorded a rendition of 'Restless And Wild' (Accept).
The complete tracklisting is as follows:
‘The Day Upon You’, ‘I Welcome The End’, ‘Souless Inventions’, ‘Helpless Creator’, ‘Fire In The Skies’, ‘Distant Thunder’ (instrumental), ‘Beyond The Black Field Of Stars’, ‘Lost In Time’, ‘Finding My Way’, ‘Run With The Pack’, ‘Restless And Wild’.
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| 16 April 2004
STRATOVARIUS' webmaster has posted the following on the band's official site (see LINKS):
"Unfortunately I have received news that Timo Tolkki was hospitalized on April 10th due to suicidal feelings and chronic depression.
He is currently being treated in Mehiläinen, a private hospital in Helsinki, Finland. If anyone wants to send recovery wishes to Timo, you can send them directly to timorecovery@stratovarius.com or you can use the ready made form we have made. All the recovery wishes will be delivered to Timo at the hospital."
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| 16 April 2004
According to Napalm Records, Mario Klausner has announced his departure, due to time constraints, from PUNGENT STENCH, in order to fully concentrate on his own band, COLLAPSE 7. The split was amicable and Mario will continue to perform live with the band until a suitable replacement is found. COLLAPSE 7's debut album, In Deep Silence, will be released on May 3rd, 2004. The band describes their sound as "Apocalyptic Death Metal". The album was produced by Martin Schirenc (HOLLENTHON, PUNGENT STENCH) in the Vato Loco Studio, Vienna.
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| 16 April 2004
HELLOWEEN have left Sanctuary Management and have inked a management and booking deal with Bottom Row Promotion who also handles the likes of AXXIS, DC COOPER, DRAGONLORD, EDENBRIDGE, HELLOWEEN, HORIZON, JADED HEART, KROKUS, PINK CREAM 69, SILENT FORCE, VANDEN PLAS.
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| 16 April 2004
A live clip of longtime Canuck thrashers INFERNAL MAJESTY performing 'Anthology Of Death', recorded on March 26th, 2004 at the Brickyard in Vancouver, BC has been posted at their website (see LINKS).
Infernal Majesty's' new CD, "One Who Points To Death", is out now through Galy Records.
The band will be on tour starting June 19th. Their upcoming itinerary is as follows:
June 19 - July 10 - Canadian tour first leg
July 11 - August 5 - east coast US tour
August 8 - Montreal at TBA
August 9 - Toronto at TBA
August 16 - August 31 - Festivals in France, Belgium, Spain with UK tour
September 1 - September 30 - European tour
October 1 -October 15 - Greece, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania
October 17 - October 22 - Canadian tour second leg
October 23 - Welcome back to Vancouver show
November 1 - 15 - west coast US tour
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| 9 April 2004
The upcoming batch of remastered albums from MEGADETH will all see a release on July 13th, through Capitol Records. Discs receiving the treatment, which will also be backed with four bonus tracks apiece (bar Risk) include: Craving, Countdown To Extinction, Peace Sells... But Who's Buying?, Rust In Peace, So Far So Good... So What?, Youthanasia, Cryptic Writings and Risk.
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| 9 April 2004
The 2004