Finnish doom metal band REVEREND BIZARRE will have its 2005 classic album "Crush the Insects" re-released in the UK on August 4 via Spinefarm. The UK reissue comes complete with a slipcase plus an enhanced section featuring the video for "Doom over the World".
Finnish metallers KALMAH will release their fifth studio album, "For The Revolution", in the UK on July 14 via Spinefarm.
For the UK version of "Revolution", selected bonus audio/visual content has been added to the mix, along with a slipcase bearing exclusive new artwork. The bonus audio track is a cover of SEPULTURA's "Arise", while on the visual side, "The Groan Of Wind" (a song from 2006's "Black Waltz") has also been included as an enhanced video.
Former STRATOVARIUS mainman Timo Tolkki has posted another song from his new band, REVOLUTION RENAISSANCE, on the group's MySpace page. Check out the track "I Did It My Way" at this location.
REVOLUTION RENAISSANCE's current lineup also includes Brazilian drummer Bruno Agra and keyboardist Mike Khalilov.
The band's debut album, "New Era", will be released on June 6 via Frontiers Records. According to a press release, the CD "is a masterpiece of melodic power metal, taking the listener straight back to the 'Visions'-era STRATOVARIUS. In fact, 'New Era' is the album that was meant to be the next STRATOVARIUS album.
"Timo called a few friends for the recording sessions and the album features all the lead vocals from such legends as Michael Kiske [HELLOWEEN] and Tobias Sammet [EDGUY, AVANTASIA], along with Timo's blistering lead guitar lines and melodic power metal anthems that made him one of the pioneers of the style and trademark performers of the style. REVOLUTION RENAISSANCE witnesses a rebirth, a new era for Timo Tolkki and his music."
Other musicians that reportedly appear on "New Era" include Pasi Rantanen (vocals; THUNDERSTONE), Mirka Rantanen (drums; THUNDERSTONE) and Pasi Heikkilä (bass; 45 DEGREE WOMAN).
"Revolution Renaissance" track listing: 01. Heroes (Sammet) 02. I Did It My Way (Kiske) 03. We Are Magic (Rantanen) 04. Angel (Kiske) 05. Eden Is Burning (Rantanen) 06. Glorious And Divine (Sammet) 07. Born Upon The Cross (Rantanen) 08. Keep The Flame Alive (Kiske) 09. Last Night On Earth (Kiske) 10. Revolution Renaissance (Kiske)
Swedish melodic death metallers DARK TRANQUILLITY have issued the following update:
"Finland/Russia/Ukraine rocks...
"Another successful tour has come to an end. Thanks to everyone that attended the gigs to show their support and make this such a memorable trip for us.
"Finland was amazing, with a devoted and dedicated audience that didn't disappoint one bit. The highlight was the nearly-sold-out Tavastia show, which marked our first headline gig in Helsinki since 1996, when we played in the now legendary Lepakko club, supported by a young HIM. (!)
"Russia and Ukraine was everything we expected and more, and it's no exaggeration to state that the performance in Moscow deserves a spot in the Top 5 list of the best shows ever. We've been waiting for so many years to get over there, and other bands have spoken highly of the great reception they've gotten, but our sky-high expectations were surpassed.
"Finally, a huge thanks to everyone involved in the promotion/organization of these shows for their great professionalism and hospitality."
Amazing American modern metal band DEVILDRIVER is going to appear in Eastern Europe finally. For a first time band will play one gig in Estonia and two exclusive gigs in Russia in May 2008. Band will be supported by leading Eastern European modern metal act RASTA, who is going to present their new maxi single called “Meridium”.
03.05 – Tallinn (Estonia) “Holywood” 05.05 – St. – Petersburg (Russia) “Orlandina” 06.05 – Moscow (Russia) “Tochka”
American thrash metal monsters TESTAMENT finally confirmed their Russian shows for june with THE FLAMING ARTS Agency. TESTAMENT will be supported by Russian GRENOUER – one of the most respected bands from Russia, who is going to present their new album “Lifelong Days” will be released in june by Locomotive Records in Europe. 17.06.08 – St-Petersburg “Orlandina” 18.06.08 – Moscow “Tochka”
According to a posting on the CHILDREN OF BODOM fan site Scythes Of Bodom, Spinefarm Records will reissue the band's "Something Wild", "Hatebreeder", "Follow The Reaper" and "Tokyo Warhearts" (live) albums on April 30. The three studio LPs will contain the original songs plus the following bonus material:
"Something Wild": 01. Children Of Bodom (original single version) 02. Mass Hypnosis (SEPULTURA cover) 03. Deadnight Warrior (video)
"Hatebreeder": 01. No Commands (STONE cover) 02. Aces High (IRON MAIDEN cover) 03. Downfall (video) (not yet confirmed)
"Follow the Reaper": 01. Hate Me! (original single version) 02. Hellion (W.A.S.P. cover) 03. Everytime I Die (video)
Swedish melodic black metallers SIEBENBÜRGEN have finalized the track listing of their new album, "Revelation VI", due on May 30 via Massacre Records. The CD was recorded at Studio 301 in Stockholm and Sonic Train in Varberg and is the group's first to feature guitarist Joakim Ohlsson and vocalist Lisa Bohwalli Simonsson. Singer Marcus Ehlin previously stated, "Our first decision was to exclude the female parts in our music, but after hearing Lisa's voice, we changed our minds."
"Revelation VI" track listing: 01. Awaken 02. Rebirth Of The Nameless 03. Infernaliia 04. Revelation VI 05. Grimheim 06. After The Wolf (Do Dead Men Follow) 07. S.I.N. 08. The Oaken Throne 09. The Soulless 10. Enter Omega (digipack bonus track) 11. In Sanctum 12. Fire Leaps High 13. At The End Of Twilight
On April 22, Swedish metallers OPETH will release the album version of "Porcelain Heart". You can buy the track from Amazon.com. The band recently filmed a promotional video for an edited version of the song. The clip was directed by Lasse Hoile (PORCUPINE TREE) and shot in Vaxholm, Sweden at the marvellous Bogesund castle, built in the 1640s. The edit was done by Jens Bogren and Mikael Åkerfeldt.
Сроки выхода сингла "Страшнее меня" окончательно утверждены - вторая половина апреля 2008.
В преддверии релиза второго полноформатного альбома, запланированного на вторую половину 2008 года, группа DIGIMORTAL уже этой весной порадует своих поклонников синглом "Страшнее меня". В сингл войдут: совершенно новая песня "Страшнее меня" с грядущего альбома, англоязычные версии любимых всеми "Белки и Стрелки" и "М.А.Ш.И.Н.Ы" с дебютного альбома "Необратимость", а также, кавер-версия убойного хита группы The Prodigy - "Breathe".
Оформление сингла "Страшнее меня" будет сделано культовым дизайнером Mike Zubique (www.mikezubique.com), который работал над дизайном альбома "Необратимость".
DIGIMORTAL выступит 12 Апреля в клубе "ПЛАН-Б" с новой концертной программой, а так же 13 Апреля в городе Тверь ("От заката до рассвета").
OPETH's new album, "Watershed", will be released on June 3 in North America (a day earlier internationally) via Roadrunner Records. The record will be released as a regular-edition CD and collector's edition two-disc CD/DVD and limited-edition 180-gram vinyl.
The artwork for the collector's edition can be viewed at this location.
The collector's edition 2-disc CD/DVD set includes three bonus tracks — "Bridge Of Sighs" from ROBIN TROWER's 1974 album of the same title, "Den Ständiga Resan" (sung in Swedish) by Marie Fredriksson as well as the classic ALICE IN CHAINS song "Would?" — 5.1 audio mix of the entire album, extensive video content, and expanded artwork. The limited-edition 180-gram double LP set includes a bonus track, exclusive poster and expanded artwork.
It’s not a secret that being faced with such underground phenomenon like RIP OFF (or simply DECEPTION), a man is unable to overcome this problem: he only could publish the list of swindlers on own sites and send it to his contacts. It is playing into hands of the dishonest lovers of free CD’s allowing them to remain in nonexistence, change names, e-mails and continue to cheat people.
An internet-portal where any interested person can register and add information about a deceiver (including his address and other details) is created. It’s possible to put information in a few thematic categories (labels (labels, distro, shops), medias (magazines, radios, web-zines), buyers (not paid a purchase)).
Every note may be commented (the way the exposed “comrades” can justify oneself) or it is possible to use private messages system to contact with note author for heart-to-heart talk.
Moreover, if you are an active CD trader and often get letters from unknown labels, it is always possible to use the information search system of the site to check these labels for presence in a database.
We invite you to visit web-site www.metalripoff.info
Finnish metallers KALMAH have unveiled the cover artwork of their fifth full-length album, "For the Revolution", due on April 2 via Spikefarm Records. The artwork was designed by former SENTENCED drummer Vesa Ranta, who was also responsible for the artwork of KALMAH's previous album, "The Black Waltz".
"For the Revolution" was recorded at Tico Tico studio in Kemi, Finland with producer Ahti Kortelainen and was mastered at the Cutting Room in Sweden.
"For the Revolution" track listing: 01. For the Revolution 02. Dead Man's Shadow 03. Holy Symphony of War 04. Wings of Blackening 05. Ready for Salvation 06. Towards the Sky 07. Outremer 08. Coward 09. Like a Slave
"Fatal Warning", a new track from CIRCLE II CIRCLE — the band led by ex-SAVATAGE singer Zak Stevens — is available for streaming at ' . The song comes off the group's new album, "Delusions of Grandeur", which is scheduled for release on April 25 via AFM Records. The CD will be issued as a regular jewel case, a limited edition featuring bonus material, and on picture vinyl.
"Delusions of Grandeur" tracklisting: 01. Fatal Warning 02. Dead Of Dawn 03. Forever 04. Echoes 05. Waiting 06. Soul Breaker 07. Seclusion 08. So Many Reasons 09. Chase The Lies 10. Every Last Thing
CIRCLE II CIRCLE will release a new four-track single on March 28 via AFM Records. Entitled "Every Last Thing", it will include a non-album and a live video clip.
KATAKLYSM recently unveiled the cover artwork for "Prevail", at this location. The band decided to "immortalize" the character that was featured on the cover of their last CD, "In the Arms of Devastation", and have him re-appear as the main character — dubbed "The Heartbeast" — on "Prevail".
Commented vocalist Maurizio Iacono: "We had so [much] killer feedback on the artwork but especially on the character that we decided to keep him as the band's fifth band member... kinda like IRON MAIDEN did with 'Eddie.'"
"Prevail" track listing: 01. Prevail 02. Taking the world by Storm 03. The Chains of Power 04. As Death Lingers 05. Blood in Heaven 06. To the Throne of Sorrow 07. Breathe to Dominate 08. Tear Down the Kingdom 09. The Vultures are Watching 10. The Last Effort (Renaissance II) (instrumental)
Former Jaded Heart vocalist MICHAEL BORMANN returns with his new solo album "Capture The Moment". This new release includes 14 high class Hard Rock compositions written by this highly acclaimed producer and song-writer himself. The track "Glory & Pain" is a blistering duet with EDENBRIDGE singer Sabine Edelsbacher. "Capture The Moment" will hit the stores through RMB/ AOR Heaven on May 23rd.
Track list: 1. When Push Comes To Shove 2. Friends Of A Lifetime 3. Come Take Me Higher 4. Live Your Life 5. I Wanna Hear Your Voice 6. Half Way Down 7. I Will Hold The Line 8. Love Is Magic 9. Glory And Pain 10. Don't Bother Me 11. Doing Or Not 12. Still Haven't Found It 13. For Just A Little While 14. Go Going Gone
Line-Up: Michael Bormann - drums, bass, guitars, keys Andreas "Rippel" Rippelmeier - guitars Chris Ivo, Eric Ragno, Niklas Olssen, Marco Grasshoff - keys Sabine Edelsbacher (EDENBRIDGE) & Sonja Rippelmeier (duet with Michael on one song each) Guido Gallus - additional drums Bobby Stφcker- additional solo guitars Tommy Denander - additional guitars, bass & keyboards Lanvall (EDENBRIDGE) - additional solo guitar
FIREWIND guitarist Gus G. has recorded a guest solo for "Redemption", the third album from the Portugese metal/goth rock band HEAVENWOOD, due in September via Recital Records. Gus appears in the track "One Step to Devotion", "matching perfectly HEAVENWOOD's emotive music with is thundering solo!" according to a press release. Also scheduled to appear on the CD is singer Tijs Vanneste of the Belgian progressive metallers OCEANS OF SADNESS.
"Redemption" will be mixed and mastered by Jens Bogren (OPETH, SOILWORK, AMON AMARTH) at Fascination Street Studios in Örebro, Sweden. The initial recording sessions for the CD took place at Ultrasound Studios with Daniel Cardoso and Ricardo Dias.
After the departure in 2004 of main songwritter and guitarist Ricardo Dias, HEAVENWOOD went on a lengthy hiatus. Now Ricardo Dias has returned along with new drummer Luiz Ferreira (ex-SECRECY from Portugal).
HEAVENWOOD 2007 is:
Ernesto Guerra - Vocals Ricardo Dias - Guitars and Vocals Bruno Silva - Guitar Luiz Ferreira - Drums
HEAVENWOOD previously relelased two albums — "Diva" and "Swallow" — and played shows with IN FLAMES, ATROCITY, THEATRE OF TRAGEDY and LAKE OF TEARS, among others.
After successful show during ROCK PALACE summer fest 2007 in St-Petersburg (Russia) Swedish death metal fathers GRAVE decided to return to Russia to promote their new album called DOMINION VIII. And this time they will hit 8 Russian towns with their uncompromising old school death metal show:
Norwegian death metal BLOOD RED THRONE are going to visit Russia for the first time in April. Their new album called “COME DEATH” has already received a lot of positive feedbacks in Europe and Asia and after few European tours band together with THE FLAMING ARTS AGENCY decided to conquer new markets including Eastern Europe. After some negotiations we decided to try with single show in Moscow together with GRAVE and return for the full Eastern European tour in autumn 2008.
We are proud to announce about our cooperation with the oldest and most respected metal bands from ex-USSR countries called GRENOUER. All albums of band are always some kind of standard of quality, which is mentioned by metal press worldwide. So we are happy to start with GRENOUER management and help them to make step to the next level of their career.
French industrial goth metallers KARELIA will release their third album, "Restless" (cover artwork), on April 21 via Season Of Mist.
The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Restless 02. Trial 03. Mirror Mirror 04. Lift Me Up 05. Please Come On In 06. Lovin' Wife 07. Crash 08. Give It Away 09. From My Window 10. Losing My Religion (R.E.M. cover)
The band's cover of R.E.M.'s "Losing My Religion" can be streamed on the KARELIA MySpace page.
A brand new WALLS OF JERICHO track, entitled "Addicted", has been posted online at ' . The song comes off the Detroit band's forthcoming EP, "Redemption", which will be released on April 29 via Trustkill Records. Produced by Corey Taylor (SLIPKNOT, STONE SOUR) at his Iowa home studio, the CD features "acoustic instruments, fleshed out arrangements, and Taylor's voice on several songs," including the aforementioned "Addicted".
"Redemption" track listing:
01. Ember Drive (feat. Corey Taylor) 02. My Last Stand (feat. Corey Taylor) 03. No Saving Me 04. House Of The Rising Sun 05. Addicted (feat. Corey Taylor)
Italian gothic metal band THEATRES DES VAMPIRES will release its new album, "Anima Noir", on May 2 via Aural Music/SPV. The CD was recorded at the Temple of Noise studio in Rome with engineer Christian Ice. According to a press release, "Anima Noir" features "romantic lyrics, lyrical voices, strong orchestration, powerfull guitars and powerful drumming. All the elements that you loved in THEATRES DES VAMPIRES are back in this new production. A new modern sound and a super modern production that took six months of work in the studio for recording and mixing it, offering you the best experience of vampirism as always, with the enchanting vocals of the mistress of your nightmare: Countess Sonya Scarlet, this time with her best performance ever."
14 марта Digimortal дадут концерт в прямом эфире программы "Брать живьем"
телеканала О2ТВ.
Помимо проверенных боевиков с альбома "Необратимость", группа впервые
исполнит совершенно новые песни с будущего диска - и у тебя есть шанс
услышать это первым!
По словам самих музыкантов, новый материал звучит еще более
бескомпромиссно и агрессивно - качевые гитарные рифы, пронзающая
электроника и разнообразные вокальные партии - все это в совокупности
придает музыке группы ту самую неповторимую индивидуальность.
Попасть на съемки очень просто - достаточно прислать заявку, содержащую
ваши ФИО, на адрес band@digimortal.ru
Вход свободный.
Концерт будет идти в прямом эфире телеканала О2ТВ 14 марта. Начало в 22:20
Схему проезда можно посмотреть тут - www.o2tv.ru
FISSION, the collaboration between BORKNAGAR/VINTERSORG frontman Andreas Hedlund (a.k.a. Vintersorg) and VINTERSORG live session drummer Benny "Hägge" Hägglund, has finalized the track listing for its second album, "Pain Parade", due later in the year via Aphotic Records. The CD was mixed at Ballerina Audio with Nils Johansson (VINTERSORG, NAGLFAR, TME). According to a press release, "Pain Parade" will contain "eight brilliant songs that mix the most of [what] metal has to offer."
"Pain Parade" track listing:
01. Chains 02. Frequency Control 03. Dear Frenzy! 04. Pain Parade 05. Machination (The Kallocain Protocol) 06. Collision and Collapse 07. Earthquaker 08. Mekanisk Är Själen
FISSION's debut album, "Crater", was released in 2004 via Napalm Records.
UK vocalist Blaze Bayley's (ex-IRON MAIDEN, WOLSFBANE) official web site has been updated with the following message:
"Blaze Bayley — a new album, the first due for release on his own independent label in late May with additional licensing to various countries. The album is being engineered by James Dunkley, produced by Blaze Bayley and is entitled 'The Man Who Would Not Die'. It promises to take Blaze in new songwriting directions, ushering in a new phase of an already renowned career. It is also the first recorded showcase for the line-up that comprises Nico Bermudez and Jay Walsh on guitars, David Bermudez on bass and Lawrence Paterson on drums."
Lawrence Paterson, the drummer for BLAZE BAYLEY, recently started a ' on the progress of the songwriting/recording sessions for the group's new album. The follow-up to 2004's "Blood & Belief" is tentatively due late summer/early fall.
Long-running Israeli extreme metallers SALEM are putting the finishing touches on a new DVD, entitled "Salem Underground". According to the band, the disc "is a collection of performances from four different shows. The concept for this DVD was to mix the recorded audio (in stereo) but to leave it unedited to maintain the rawest live experience possible."
The release date for "Salem Underground" will be announced next week.
SALEM released its new album, "Necessary Evil", in June 2007 via Season of Mist. The follow-up to 2005's "Strings Attached" includes a 27-minute piece entitled "Once Upon a Lifetime Parts I - V".
The up-and-coming modern metal/metalcore band F.R.Y. (St.Petersburg) have entered the studio to record the full-length debut album. The album should include the material of the demo/promo CD "Orange Demo[n]" and the Internet single "Illusions.ru" (2007), as well as new songs, previously only heard live. The old songs are to be re-recorded. The album should include 11 tracks in total.
F.R.Y. have their own cool and original style, successfully balancing between metal and alternative, adding elements of various styles from funk metal to rapcore. Over one year, the band have developed a unique sound and a signature, informal style of playing live, full of drive and positive energy. In underground circles, F.R.Y. are known not only by their music experiments, but also by creative and original promo and live videos.
The album title, recording studio, and design concept are kept secret:)
Swedish death metal veterans UNLEASHED have entered the studio to begin recording their ninth full-length album, "Hammer Battalion", due later in the year via SPV Records. According to the band, "The new UNLEASHED album will continue in the same victorious spirit as our previous album 'Midvinterblot'."
Check out photos from the recording sessions at ' .
"Hammer Battalion" track listing (not final order)
01. The Greatest Of All Lies 02. Long Before Winter's Call 03. Your Children Will Burn 04. Hammer Battalion 05. This Day Belongs To Me 06. Marching Off To War 07. Entering The Hall Of The Slain 08. Black Horizon 09. Carved In Stone 10. Warriors Of Midgard 11. Midsummer Solstice 12. Home Of The Brave 13. I Want You Dead
Members of '80s German thrash metal cult EXUMER began negotiating a full-fledged reunion for 2009. The projected reunion includes a new album, re-releases of the band's two albums from the 1980s and a substantial tour.
EXUMER vocalist Mem V. Stein of New York City thrashers SUN DESCENDS comments: "This reunion won't be like the one-off show we played at the Wacken Open Air in 2001. This time we will deliver the entire package and release a new, third EXUMER album. It's been close to 22 years since the second EXUMER release in 1987 and it seems that the band is still relevant, especially when you consider the new generation of thrash metal bands that quote EXUMER as a major influence of theirs. I will keep SUN DESCENDS alive and I'm not abandoning the project but most of 2009 will be dedicated to a new EXUMER album and it's promotion. We also have Paul Arakaki (guitars/bass) in the band who replaced me on the second EXUMER album and now lives in Hawaii. I frequently get emails from fans asking for a EXUMER reunion and I feel that the time is right to finally go ahead and make it a reality. We have never played live in North America and I believe that we owe it to the fans here in the States to see the band at least once with full-on live production."
EXUMER has not yet decided with which record label to work with for the releases, but plans to enter the studio to record their new CD in late 2008/early 2009.
SUN DESCENDS' new album, titled "The Entropy Formula", will be released on Khaosmaster Productions in April and on Twilight distribution in fall 2008.
German power metallers HUMAN FORTRESS will release their third album, "Eternal Empire", on April 25 via Massacre Records. The first pressing will be available as a limited-edition double CD featuring a bonus disc containing two bonus tracks, a video clip, outtakes, pictures and much more.
"Eternal Empire" track listing:
01. Contrast 02. Borders Of Insanity 03. The Wizard 04. The Raven 05. When Love And Hate Collide 06. Under The Spell 07. Lions Den 08. Circle Of Flames 09. Falling Leaves
Audio samples of the tracks "Contrast" and "Falling Leaves" are available at ' . A video for the song "Contrast" was recently shot and will be released soon.
"Of Sacrifice, Loss and Reward", the new single from the Finnish power metallers KIUAS, has entered the ' in the band's home country at position No. 1. The track comes off the group's third album, "The New Dark Age", which is scheduled for release in Finland on March 5.
"The New Dark Age" track listing:
01. The Decaying Doctrine 02. Conqueror 03. Kiuas War Anthem 04. The New Dark Age 05. To Excel and Ascend 06. Black Rose Withered 07. After the Storm 08. Of Sacrifice, Loss and Reward 09. The Summoning 10. The Wanderer's Lamentation Bonus track for Japan release: 11. Towards the Hidden Sanctum
According to the band, "The ' is the product of the visionary artist/musician Niklas Sundin (Cabin Fever Media). The picture is an original drawing in the style of reneissance woodcut illustrations, and portrays the members of KIUAS as the four — or in this case five — horsemen of the Apocalypse with a dismal landscape that combines ancient and modern times."
A video for the song 'Conqueror' was shot on February 18 with Owe Lingvall of Village Road Film.
KIUAS' second full-length album, "Reformation", was released in May 2006.
KIUAS is:
Ilja Jalkanen - Vocals Mikko Salovaara - Guitars Markku Näreneva - Drums Atte Tanskanen - Keyboard Teemu Tuominen – Bass
Italian power metallers KALEDON will enter Outer Sound studios on March 10 with produceer Giuseppe Orlando to begin recording their fifth album, "Legend Of The Forgotten Reign Chapter 5: A New Era Begins", tentatively due in Europe in May/June via Hellion Records. The CD artwork will be designed by Fabrizio Galliccia.
"Legend Of The Forgotten Reign Chapter 5: A New Era Begins" track listing:
01. A New Man 02. A Wounded Friend 03. Mozul 04. Undeads Again 05. The End Of The Green Power 06. A Flash In The Sky 07. Great Mighty Light (instrumental) 08. The Greatest Heart 09. The God Beyond The Man 10. Return To Kaledon
The Japanese version of the CD will include "top-secret" bonus material, according to a posting on the band's web site.
Russian pagan metal band ARKONA will take part in Ragnarök fest as a headliner together with UNLEASHED, HAGGARD, TURISAS, PRIMORDIAL, NORTHER, BATTLELORE, NEGURA BUNGET, SKYFORGER, TROLLFEST, MENHIR and many other in the end of March. More about this fest you can read on ' .
German melodic black/death metallers SUIDAKRA will release their new DVD and "best-of" CD package, "13 Years of Celtic Wartunes", on April 25. The set will include the band's Wacken Open Air 2007 performance, an acoustic concert, and a best-of CD with remastered and newly recorded songs spanning the group's 13-year history.
Sundsvall, Sweden-based death metallers IN BATTLE have issued the following update:
"Yesterday we started rehearsing material for the new album. We have 2.5 songs done, except for some vocal arrangements, and a ton of riffs and ideas. The new stuff sounds extremely intense, brutal, straight-forward. It kind of sounds like a mix between the 'Soul Metamorphosis' MCD with a touch of the first two IN BATTLE albums, so prepare yourselves for this coming whirlwind of destruction! The working title was set to be 'Flames & Death' but since HATE ETERNAL's new CD is called 'Fury & Flames', we probobly gonna have to come up with something else. We are also glad to inform you that Nils (Lord Dominator) Fjellström is back in the band as a full-time member. Welcome back, brother! It's a pleasure to work with you again. We would like to thank Tony (Dark Rambo) Westermark for filling in for Nils on the tour, you did an amazing job man, best of luck in the future."
IN BATTLE's fifth album will be recorded at Epidemic Productions in Sundsvall.
The group's fourth CD, "Kingdom of Fear", was released on September 3 via Nocturnal Art Productions/Candlelight Records. The follow-up to 2004's "Welcome to the Battlefield" was recorded at Epidemic studios in Sundsvall and was mixed by UNLEASHED's Fredrik Folkare at Chrome studios in Stockholm. The CD contains "11 songs of raw trashy death metal," according to a press release. Two video clips for the album have been filmed: "Kingdom of Fear" and "The Dead Shall See".
According to a posting on YNGWIE MALMSTEEN's official web site, the legendary Swedish guitarist's long-awaited new CD is now in its final stages of creation, with a tentative release date of July 2008. The new lineup that will take Yngwie's upcoming album on the road is as follows:
Yngwie Malmsteen - Guitar Tim "Ripper" Owens (ex-JUDAS PRIEST, ICED EARTH) - Vocals Bjorn Englen - Bass Michael Troy - Keyboards Patrik Johansson - Drums
Yngwie Malmsteen will attend the Musikmesse Frankfurt 2008 fair in Germany, which runs from Thursday, March 13 to Saturday, March 15.
Sweden's PAIN has issued the following update from its European tour as the support act for NIGHTWISH:
"Here we go again. We left Frankfurt [Germany] around noon today 'cause we had to wait for a new driver first. The new driver arrived and our 200-kilometer journey towards Bamberg began. After two hours of driving with only 20 minutes to go, we got pulled over by the police who ordered us out of the bus and had us sit in a line at the sidewalk. They searched us one by one and had us remove socks and shoes for about 40 minutes while they searched the whole bus and turned all of our bags upside down [' ]. When they were finished, they came out with a camera case and asked us who it belonged to. It contained a small plastic bag with a suspicious white powder and was owned by our new driver who, of course, claimed he never seen it before. Well... to make a long story short, we're stuck somewhere on autobahn without a driver, it's pitch black and raining outside. We're trying to enjoy ourselves watching 'Terror on Elm Street' on a laptop eating cold can food with piss-warm red wine. Another day off well spent. Everything taste better with Freddy Krueger."
As previously reported, PAIN members Peter Tägtgren (guitar/vocals), Johan Husgafvel (bass) and David Wallin (drums) were assaulted Friday night (February 22) in Leipzig, Germany during a day off on the band's European tour as the support act for NIGHTWISH. As a result, the group was forced to cancel Saturday's concert in Leipzig, but the bandmembers quickly picked themselves up and were back on stage on Sunday.
Mexico's DENIAL will release its full-length debut, "Catacombs of the Grotesque", on Asphyxiate Recordings.
Formed at the end of 2006, DENIAL is said to be inspired by '90s death metal. The group's seven-inch EP, "Immense Carnage Vortex", is available through Blood Harvest Records.
DENIAL is:
Oscar Clorio: Drums Ivan "Bloodhunter" Velazquez: Vocals Marko Guevara: Guitars Roberto Granados: Guitars Ricardo Gil: Bass
MIND ODYSSEY, the German metal band featuring RAGE guitarist Victor Smolski, has inked a deal with Napalm Records. The group's new studio album is expected in autumn. Napalm will also re-release the group's complete back catalog with brand new artwork. In the meantime, a "best-of" collection from MIND ODYSSEY will be issued in March via MO Entertainment.
MIND ODYSSEY's fourth studio album, "Signs", came out in 1999.
Latvia's SKYFORGER has been confirmed as the headliner of the fifth instalment of the Infernal Damnation Festival, set to take place May 17 at the Camden Underworld in England. Also scheduled to appear are Sweden's ALGAION, London's MATRON, British folk/black metallers FEN, Ireland's FOR RUIN, and UK's NECRO RITUAL.
Doors will open at 2:00 p.m. Curfew is 10:30 p.m.
Infernal Damnation Festival V billing:
SKYFORGER ALGAION MATRON FEN FOR RUIN NECRO RITUAL WODENSTHRONE WORMS OF SABNOCK EASTERN FRONT
HATESPHERE was honored in the "Hard Rock" category at the annual Danish Music Awards (the Danish Grammy Awards equivalent). The 40th Danish Music Awards show was held earlier tonight (Saturday, February 23) at Tivoli in Copenhagen, Denmark and was broadcast live on MySpace.
The nominees in the "Hard Rock" category were as follows:
HATESPHERE - "Serpent Smiles And Killer Eyes" (SPV) MNEMIC - "Passenger" (Nuclear Blast) THE PSYKE PROJECT - "Apnea" (Bonnier)
HATESPHERE entered the national chart in Denmark at position No. 26 with the group's latest release, "Serpent Smiles and Killer Eyes". The CD was mixed by Tue Madsen at Antfarm studios Denmark.
Watch HATESPHERE's video for the song "Drinking with the King of the Dead" (taken from "Serpent Smiles and Killer Eyes") ' .
Norwegian black metallers SATYRICON have issued the following update:
"It is with great pleasure we confirm that SATYRICON will be back in Russia after the awesome trip in October 2006. This time a show in Kiev, Ukraine has been added as well and this will be our first visit there ever. Our Russian friends have a tendency of showing up in great numbers and we hope for just the same in Ukraine!"
Upcoming SATYRICON shows:
Mar. 08 - Katowice, POL - Metalmania (Spodek) Mar. 21 - Oslo, NOR - Inferno Festival May 16 - St Petersburg, RUS - Club Port May 17 - Moscow, RUS - Club Tochka May 18 - Kiev, UA - [to be announced] Jun. 21 - Nantes, FRA - Hellfest Jul. 19 - Spital am Semmering, AUT - Kaltenbach Open Air Aug. 16 - Oulu, FIN - Jallometalli Festival
SATYRICON is currently writing material for the follow-up to 2006's "Now, Diabolical", tentatively due late 2008 via Roadrunner Records.
Watch fan-filmed video footage of SATYRICON performing the song "The Pentagram Burns" at this year's Brutal Assault festival in the Czech Republic ' .
Canadian death metallers KATAKLYSM will film a video for the track "Taking the World by Storm" this weekend in New York. The clip will be directed by David Brodsky, who has previously worked with GOD FORBID, GWAR and STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, among others.
"Taking the World by Storm" comes off the group's upcoming album, "Prevail", which was mixed at AudioHammer Studios in Orlando, Florida with producer Jason Suecof. The CD, which is scheduled for release via Nuclear Blast Records on May 23 (Europe) and May 27 (North America), features guest solo appearances by Pat O'Brien (CANNIBAL CORPSE), Dave Linsk (OVERKILL) and producer and guitar shredder Jason Suecof himself. The band promises "a monstrous album that will pummel you from start to finish."
"Prevail" track listing:
01. Prevail 02. Taking the world by Storm 03. The Chains of Power 04. As Death Lingers 05. Blood in Heaven 06. To the Throne of Sorrow 07. Breathe to Dominate 08. Tear Down the Kingdom 09. The Vultures are Watching 10. The Last Effort (Renaissance II) (instrumental)
German melodic black/death metallers SUIDAKRA will release their new DVD and "best-of" CD package, "13 Years of Celtic Wartunes", on April 25. The set will include the band's Wacken Open Air 2007 performance, an acoustic concert, and a best-of CD with remastered and newly recorded songs spanning the group's 13-year history.
SUIDAKRA will make its U.S. debut at the Chicago Powerfest 2008, set to take place May 1-3 at The Pearl Room in Mokena, Illinois. The band will then join Paganfest USA (featuring ENSIFERUM, TURISAS, TYR and ELUVEITIE) as special guests on the six West Coast dates.
Veteran metallers METAL CHURCH have issued the following update:
"Due to personal reasons, Jay Reynolds [also of MALICE] has left METAL CHURCH. We thank him for his contributions to the band, and wish him all the best in future endeavors."
"Jay's replacement has not been decided upon yet, but it will be announced when a decision has been reached."
METAL CHURCH's latest album, "A Light in the Dark", was released in June 2006 via SPV. The CD includes a new version of the classic "Watch the Children Pray" as a tribute to vocalist David Wayne, who passed away in May 2005.
Regain Records has launched a special ' featuring a streaming version of the track "Bloodpath", taken from the Swedish death metallers' forthcoming eight album, "Dominion VIII", which will be released in Europe on April 21. According to the band, the CD will contain "nine tracks of sheer evil and mass brutality."
"Dominion VIII" track listing:
01. A World In Darkness 02. Fallen (Angel Son) 03. Deathstorm 04. Stained By Hate 05. Bloodpath 06. Annihilated Gods 07. Sinners Lust 08. Dark Signs 09. 8th Dominion
GRAVE is planning to mark its 20th anniversary with a number of shows featuring the group's early material. The band previously said in a statement, "Next year it's already 20 years since GRAVE was formed. In 1988 after replacing some members we changed our name from CORPSE. That year we also recorded our classic first demo 'Sick Disgust Eternal' and continued musically what we started with our previous bands DESTROYER, ANGUISH, CORPSE and PUTREFACTION. We will mark the anniversary with a new album and also massive touring and festival appearances where we will mainly play old stuff from the early days."
Finnish melodic metallers SONATA ARCTICA have scheduled the following summer festival appearances:
Jun. 6-8 - Sauna Open Air - Tampere, Finland Jun. 20 - Monsters Of Rock - Zaragoza, Spain Jun. 21 - Hellfest - Clisson, France Jun. 27-29 - Tuska Open Air - Helsinki, Finland Jun. 28 - Graspop Metal Meeting - Dessel, Belgium Jul. 10-13 - Masters Of Rock - Vizovice, Czech Republic Jul. 11 - Evolution Festival - Milan, Italy Jul. 31- August 2 - Wacken Open Air - Wacken, Germany
France's Radio Metal recently conducted an interview with SONATA ARCTICA keyboardist Henrik Klingenberg and bassist Marko Paasikoski. Listen to the chat in streaming audio ' .
SONATA ARCTICA last year parted ways with guitarist Jani Liimatainen and replaced him with Elias Viljanen.
The band's new album, "Unia", was certified gold in Finland for sales in excess of 15,000 copies. This brings the band's total number of gold albums to seven, with their debut LP, "Ecliptica", and "best-of" compilation, "The Collection", reaching gold status in the past few weeks.
Recorded and mixed at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, "Unia" — which has been available in North America since May 22 — landed on the following international album charts: Finland - #1; Japan - #7; Sweden - #27; Germany - #35; Switzerland - #40; Austria - #62. The "Paid in Full" single also secured the #1 single position in the band's native land.
An audio sample of the new MIDNATTSOL song "Northern Light" is available ' . The track comes off the group's forthcoming second album, entitled "Nordlys" (translated: Northern Light), which will be released via Napalm Records on the following dates:
Mar. 26 - Finland Mar. 28 - Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden Mar. 31 - Rest of Europe Apr. 01 - USA/Canada
The CD was mixed by Tue Madsen and was mastered at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Finland with Mika Jusilla.
"Nordlys" track listing:
01. Open Your Eyes 02. Skogens Lengsel 03. Northern Light 04. Konkylie 05. Wintertimes 06. Race Of Time 07. New Horizon 08. River Of Virgin Soil 09. En Natt I Nord 10. Octobre (limited-edition bonus track)
Boston-based hardcore/metal band BURY YOUR DEAD will release its new self-titled album on March 18 via Victory Records. The band recently returned to Florida's Audiohammer Studios, the exact facility where their previous release, "Beauty and the Breakdown", was recorded. BURY YOUR DEAD also brought back producer Jason Suecof (TRIVIUM, GOD FORBID), continuing with the theme of tradition. BURY YOUR DEAD drummer Mark Castillo previously stated, "All I have to say is the new BURY YOUR DEAD isn't what people are going to expect. You really have to hear this."
"Bury Your Dead" track listing:
01. Sympathy Orchestra 02. Disposably Yours 03. Fever Dream 04. Infidels Hymn 05. Angel With A Dirty Face 06. Hands To Hide The Shame 07. Wombdisease 08. A Devils Ransom 09. Dust To Dust 10. Fools Gold 11. Year One
Check out the song "Sympathy Orchestra" on the ' .
PAIN, the Swedish band featuring HYPOCRISY mainman Peter Tägtgren, is currently on the road in Europe as the support act for NIGHTWISH. The band has launched a ' where the bandmembers promise to "keep you updated with news and share whatever happens during the tour. Everything you read or see on this blog is exclusively uncensored. Similarities with now living persons is total coincidence."
As previously reported, guitarist Marcus Jidell (ROYAL HUNT, HOUSE OF SHAKIRA) is once again part of PAIN's touring lineup.
CHILDREN OF BODOM's video for the new single "Blooddrunk" can be viewed ' . The clip, which was produced by Katapult Filmproduktion, was shot in the former Nazi barracks in Krampnitz in the vicinity of Berlin, Germany, where the Russian army was stationed before the German reunion.
Spinefarm Records will release a digipack version of CHILDREN OF BODOM's new album, "Blooddrunk", on April 9. The set will include a bonus DVD featuring the songs mixed in 5.1 Surround Sound, the "Blooddrunk" video, a "making-of-the-video" segment, and a photo gallery. In addition, the CD will feature CHILDREN OF BODOM's cover of STAN JONES' "Ghost Riders In The Sky" as a bonus track.
"Blooddrunk" digipack details:
CD:
01. Hellhounds On My Trail 02. Blooddrunk 03. LoBodomy 04. One Day You Will Cry 05. Smile Pretty For The Devil 06. Tie My Rope 07. Done With Everything, Die For Nothing 08. Banned From Heaven 09. Roadkill Morning 10. Ghost Riders In The Sky
DVD:
01. Blooddrunk (video) 02. Making of the Video 03. Hellhounds On My Trail (Surround Sound) 04. Blooddrunk (Surround Sound) 05. LoBodomy (Surround Sound) 06. One Day You Will Cry (Surround Sound) 07. Smile Pretty For The Devil (Surround Sound) 08. Tie My Rope (Surround Sound) 09. Done With Everything, Die For Nothing (Surround Sound) 10. Banned From Heaven (Surround Sound) 11. Roadkill Morning (Surround Sound) 12. Photo Gallery
Fan-filmed video footage of CHILDREN OF BODOM performing the new song "Tie My Rope" for the first time at this year's annual Spinefeast event (dubbed Spinefeast At Sea 2008), which took place January 31 - February 1 aboard the Tallink Galaxy cruise chip in Finland, can be viewed below.
The UK's What Records will release three limited-edition versions of CHILDREN OF BODOM's "Blooddrunk" single on March 3:
01. Blooddrunk 02. No Commands (previously released STONE cover) + CHILDREN OF BODOM sticker
A new CHILDREN OF BODOM song, entitled "Banned From Heaven", is available for streaming on the ' . The track comes off, "Blooddrunk", which is scheduled for release in North America on April 15 via Spinefarm/Fontana International. The CD is due in Europe on April 7 via Spinefarm Records (two days later in Finland). Check out the album artwork ' .
Norwegian melodic metal band PICTURES OF PAIN will enter Black Dimension studios at the end of February to begin recording its debut album. The CD will contain eight tracks and will be produced by Stein Sund, who has previously worked with THRONE OF KATARSIS and THUNDRA, among others.
PICTURES OF PAIN was formed in 2004 by Frode Gundersen (drums) and Hans Helge Iversen (vocals). They were later joined by Roy Ostrem (bass) and Rune Fredriksen (guitar). The group recorded its first demo in November 2005. A second studio recording followed in July 2006.
Austrian symphonic metal band EDENBRIDGE will release its sixth studio album, "MyEarthDream", on April 25 via Napalm Records. ' was created by Anthony Clarkson, who has previously worked with BLIND GUARDIAN, among other artists.
"MyEarthDream" track listing:
01. The Force Within 02. Shadowplay 03. Remember Me 04. Adamantine 05. Paramount 06. Whale Rider 07. Undying Devotion 08. Fallen From Grace 09. Place Of Higher Power 10. MyEarthDream Suite (For Guitar And Orchestra) 11. MyEarthDream
Wilmington, North Carolina-based rock/post-hardcore band HE IS LEGEND has parted ways with guitarist Mitch Marlow and replaced him with Worth Weaver (FRIENDS FOR HIRE). Marlow left the group after accepting an offer to join the recently reunited FILTER.
HE IS LEGEND is currently writing material for its third album, which the band plans to begin recording later this year.
The group released its second full-length CD, "Suck out the Poison", in October 2006 via Solid State Records.
"21", the new video from Swedish metallers WITHIN Y, can be viewed ' . The clip was directed by Dino Medanhodzic (guitar player in CARNAL FORGE and SOULBREACH) from Arboga, Sweden.
"21" comes off the Swedish melodic death metal band's third album, "The Cult", which is scheduled for release on February 27 via the Gothenburg-based label Gain. The CD artwork was created by Niklas Sundin of DARK TRANQUILLITY and Cabin Fever Media.
"The Cult" track listing:
01. Deathtrip 02. 21 03. The Cult 04. Bittersweet Suicide 05. The Predictable End 06. My Fall 07. King Of Flies 08. Self Refinement 09. Strive 10. Facing Reality
WITHIN Y has scheduled a CD-release party on February 29 at Sticky Fingers in Gothenburg, Sweden. Also appearing on the bill is LAETHORA.
Swedish melodic black metallers SIEBENBÜRGEN have announced the addition of guitarist Joakim Ohlsson and vocalist Lisa Bohwalli Simonsson to the group's ranks. This 22 year-old-female from Stockholm "just amazed SIEBENBÜRGEN with her vocal performance, resulting in a full membership in the metal act," according to a press release.
Commented singer Marcus Ehlin, "Our first decision was to exclude the female parts in our music, but after hearing Lisa's voice, we changed our minds."
SIEBENBÜRGEN will enter the studio on March 1 to begin recording its new album for a May 23 release via Germany's Massacre Records. Entitled "Revelation VI", the upcoming CD will be recorded at Studio 301 in Stockholm and Sonic Train in Varberg.
The complete track listing of the new TIAMAT album, "Amanethes", which is scheduled for release on April 18 via Nuclear Blast Records, is revealed. The CD was once again produced at Woodhouse Studios in Germany with Siggi Bemm.
"Amanethes" track listing:
01. The Temple Of The Crescent Moon 02. Equinox Of The Gods 03. Until The Hellhounds Sleep Again 04. Will They Come? 05. Lucienne 06. Summertime Is Gone 07. Katarraktis Apo Aima 08. Raining Dead Angels 09. Misantropolis 10. Amanitis 11. Meliae 12. Via Dolorosa 13. Circles 14. Amanes
TIAMAT's last studio album, "Prey", was released in 2003 through Century Media.
SLAYER was honored with a Grammy in the "Best Metal Performance" category in the pre-telecast ceremony at the 50th annual Grammy Awards, which are being held tonight (Sunday, February 10) at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. SLAYER was nominated for the track "The Final Six", from the band's 2007 limited-edition "Christ Illusion". The song, written by SLAYER's vocalist/bassist Tom Araya and guitarist Jeff Hanneman and produced by Josh Abraham, is a chilling look at an hypothesized end of the world. The track made its debut last July as the "Single of the Week" on MySpace where it has since accumulated some 750,000 plays, an astounding number for a song that received no commercial airplay.
Swedish/German extreme metallers ARCH ENEMY have scheduled two shows in Russia in April. Vocalist Angela Gossow comments, "We are very excited to meet our Russian fans! We have heard a lot of crazy stories about YOU — and we sincerely hope they are all true!"
The dates are as follows:
April 15 - St Petersburg, Russia - Port April 16 - Moscow, Russia - DK Gorbunova
ARCH ENEMY was honored with the P3 Guld award (for the band's critically acclaimed "Rise of the Tyrant" release) from Swedish radio station P3 in the "Best Rock/Metal Album of the Year" category. The awards show was broadcasted live on national radio on January 18.
ARCH ENEMY's video for the song "Revolution Begins" can be viewed at ' . The clip was shot in early September just days before ARCH ENEMY flew to North America to begin the Black Tyranny tour (with MACHINE HEAD, THROWDOWN and SANCTITY). To promote their new album, "Rise of the Tyrant", the band shot two videos in Gothenburg, Sweden with director Patric Ullaeus (IN FLAMES, LACUNA COIL).
After recently celebrating the band's 20-year anniversary, DREAM THEATER returns with its first-ever best-of collection. Spanning 1991-2005, the two-disc set contains rare single edits, B-sides and a trio of new remixes that spotlight that band's nonpareil musicianship, complex arrangements and amazing songwriting.
The collection's 22 songs are split evenly between two discs, which are divided into "The Dark Side" (the metallic) and "The Light Side" (the melodic). Filled with some of the band's most sinister sounds, the first disc lives up to the billing of "The Dark Side."
"Greatest Hit (...& 21 Other Pretty Cool Songs)" track listing:
Disc 1 (The Dark Side): 01. Pull Me Under (2007 Remix) 02. Take The Time (2007 Remix) 03. Lie (Single Edit) 04. Peruvian Skies 05. Home (Single Edit) 06. Misunderstood (Single Edit) 07. The Test That Stumped Them All 08. As I Am 09. Endless Sacrifice 10. The Root Of All Evil 11. Sacrificed Sons
Disc 2 (The Light Side): 01. Another Day (2007 Remix) 02. To Live Forever 03. Lifting Shadows Off A Dream 04. The Silent Man 05. Hollow Years 06. Through Her Eyes (Alternate Album Mix) 07. The Spirit Carries On 08. Solitary Shell (Single Edit) 09. I Walk Beside You 10. The Answer Lies Within 11. Disappear
SCUM, the Norwegian/American project featuring Samoth (ZYKLON, ex-EMPEROR), Bard G. Eithun (a.k.a. Faust) (ex-EMPEROR), Happy Tom (TURBONEGRO), Casey Chaos (AMEN) and Cosmocrator (MINDGRINDER), has had its 2005 debut album, "Gospels for the Sick", made available on limited-edition vinyl.
To order a copy, click ' .
"Gospels for the Sick" was released in Europe via Dogjob Records (a division of Tuba) and Candlelight Records in the U.S. The CD was recorded at Crystal Canyon Studio (TURBONEGRO, WE, EUROBOY) in Norway and features guest appearances by Mortiis, Nocturno Culto (DARKTHRONE) and Knut "Euroboy" Schreider (TURBONEGRO, EUROBOYS).
A video for the album cut "Protest Life" can be viewed ' .
Dutch metallers WARMASTER have inked a deal with Dutch Metal Records. The group's long-awaited debut CD, "First War", will be released on March 24.
"First War" was recorded and mixed at A.M. Studio (INFINITED HATE, FUNERAL WINDS, DARK REMAINS) and was mastered by Robbe K. According to a press release, WARMASTER "has created an album which takes death metal back to basics, yet agressive music and is determined to conquer the metal scene!"
01. Testimony From The Grave 02. Unleashing Devilment 03. Silent Scream 04. Against Heavy Odds 05. Psychological Suffering 06. In Cold Blood 07. Silent 08. 1914
Century Media Records has set a February 22 German release date for "Slave to the Dark", a comprehensive box set featuring all 14 CDs plus a DVD covering the band's years as a Century Media recording artist. The set includes the following titles:
* Iced Earth (1990) * Night of the Stormrider (1991) * Burnt Offerings (1995) * The Dark Saga (1996) * Days of Purgatory (1997) * Something Wicked This Way Comes (1998) * Alive in Athens (Live) (1999) * Melancholy (2001) * Horror Show (2001) * Dark Genesis (2001) * Tribute to the Gods (2002) * The Blessed and the Damned (Best Of) (2004) * Alive in Athens (DVD) (2006)
"We Rock", the new video from Finnish metallers NORTHER, can be viewed ' .
Commented the group: "We shot our new video some time ago. It's looking damn good and will be something a way cooler than we've ever done before. We did the video with [the Helsinki-based] Tunne Productions. I must say that besides being really pro guys they were also really nice and everything went smoothly."
"We Rock" is available for streaming on the band's MySpace page. The track comes off the group's new album, "N", which will be released through Century Media Records on the following dates:
Feb. 13 - Finland Feb. 22 - Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, BeNeLux Feb. 25 - UK, France, Denmark, Greece, Norway Feb. 26 - Spain, Portugal Feb. 29 - Sweden, Hungary
The CD was recorded and produced by longtime partner Anssi Kippo (CHILDREN OF BODOM) at Astia Studios and mixed by Fredrik Nordstrom (DARK TRANQUILLITY, ARCH ENEMY, IN FLAMES) at Studio Fredman in Sweden.
According to a press release, "N" sees NORTHER "perfecting their mix of ripping riffs, aggressive vocals and epic melodies and will be premiered live at the well-known Finnish Metal Expo on February 16, 2008 in Helsinki. With the release of the massive metal anthem 'We Rock' as Finland-only single plus a new video currently in the works NORTHER are destined to induce 2008 with a metallic kick-off par excellence."
"N" track listing:
01. My Antichrist 02. Frozen Angel 03. Down 04. To Hell 05. Savior 06. Black Gold 07. We Rock 08. Always & Never 09. Tell Me Why 10. If You Go 11. Self-Righteous Fuck 12. Forever And Ever 13. Sabotage (Japanese Bonus Track)
"N" will be available as a CD and limited edition digipak including three bonus tracks.
Awake/Strong will release a hardcore compilation, entitled "Music by People Like Us", on March 25. In the vein of the classic compilations, "Music By People Like Us" is a time stamp of where hardcore is now. The legends that are still going, such as AGNOSTIC FRONT, SICK OF IT ALL, and MADBALL, to the new crop like WISDOM IN CHAINS, EVERYDAY DOLLARS, and BLACKLISTED (28 bands in total), are featured, all with an unreleased or previously released song. Inlay contains write-ins from people all over the world with their thoughts or stories for each band.
"Music By People Like Us" track listing:
01. WISDOM IN CHAINS - Land Of Kings 02. EVERYDAY DOLLARS - Supply And Demand 03. MADBALL - Infiltrate The System 04. DISTRICT 9 - Addicts * w/ Armando F451 05. SICK OF IT ALL - Die Alone 06. BLACKLISTED - How Quickly We Forget (Again) 07. MY TURN TO WIN - Hear Me Now 08. GO IT ALONE - Love 09. KILL YOUR IDOLS - Miserable And Satisfied 10. MODERN LIFE IS WAR - The Outsiders 11. DEATHCYCLE - Suicide Seeds 12. PULLING TEETH - Ashes And Dust 13. ONE 4 ONE - This Day 14. BLOOD FOR BLOOD - Hanging On The Corner 15. SKARE TACTIC - Down For Life 16. BRING OUT YOUR DEAD - ...and When The Dramamine Wears Off 17. WALTER SCHREIFELS - Open Letter 18. FAHRENHEIT 451 - And I 19. ALWAYS UPRISING - Get Up & Go 20. IGNITE - Poverty For All 21. AGNOSTIC FRONT - Addiction 22. 20 BULLS EACH - Bow Down 23. H2O - 1995 (Demo) 24. AMBITIONS - Overstep 25. SUBHOODZ - 454 Big Block 26. OLDE YORK - Still Believe 27. DEATHKILLER - New England Is Sinking 28. KILLING KINGS - Failure Eclipse
The CD is available for pre-order exclusively via ' and includes a free t-shirt.
Swiss folk metal band ELUVEITIE is streaming its new album, "Slania", in its entirety on the ' . Due in Germany on February 15 via Nuclear Blast Records, the follow-up to 2006's "Spirit" is "the perfection of the first album, but still there is enough room to give some new influences a chance," according to a press release. 'Expect nothing less than a masterpiece of hellish heavy folk metal with an 'x' factor!"
New York's PSYCHOMANTHIUM, which features former and current members of NEGLECT, ARKHAM 13 and SHALLOWS OF THE MUNDANE, has inked a deal with No Joke Records. The group's debut album, "Blueprint for Murder", will be released on July 1.
"Blueprint for Murder" track listing:
01. Ravenous 02. Cast Out 03. Reborn From Darkness 04. Till I Bleed 05. Blueprint for Murder 06. 40 Days 07. The Confession 08. Bloodshed 09. Tree of Woe 10. Evil Dead 11. Virulent Disention 12. From the Shadows 13. The Zero Hour 14. Enter the Psychomanthiumn
HeavyMetalSource.com conducted an interview with Matt DeVries and Rob Arnold of CHIMAIRA on February 2, 2008 at The Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts. ' .
CHIMAIRA's latest album, "Resurrection", sold 16,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release back in March 2007 to debut at position No. 42 on The Billboard 200 chart.
The band's "Resurrection" video was directed by Todd Bell and features an appearance by Mixed Martial Arts fighter Mavrick.
Finnish folk/pagan metal band MOONSORROW will release a new EP, entitled "Tulimyrsky" (Firestorm), on March 26 through Spinefarm Records. The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Tulimyrsky (new song) 02. For Whom The Bell Tolls (METALLICA cover) 03. Taistelu Pohjolasta (from the "Tama Ikuinen Talvi" demo) 04. Hvergelmir (from the "Metsa" demo) 05. Back To North (MERCILESS cover)
Chicago-area psychedelic black metal group NACHTMYSTIUM has posted a new song, entitled "Your True Enemy", on the band's ' . The track comes off NACHTMYSTIUM's new album, "Assassins", due this spring via Candlelight Records in Europe and Century Media in the rest of the world. According to the band, "the [recording] session [for the new CD] was the perfect combination of productive and destructive, and the proof is the music itself."
"Assassins" was recorded at Volume Studios in Chicago with producer Sanford Parker (MINSK, YAKUZA, BIBLE OF THE DEVIL). The CD features a guest appearance on drums by Tony Laureano (DIMMU BORGIR, ANGELCORPSE, NILE).
Finnish progressive metallers ADAMANTRA have posted the song "Shattered" on their ' . The track comes off the group's debut album, which was recently mixed by Mikko Mustonen (best known for his work with NORTHERN KINGS, a band consisting of members of NIGHTWISH and SONATA ARCTICA, among other groups).
ADAMANTRA is about to start the first round of label negotiations for the release of the album.
According to ADAMANTRA's official bio, the group's influences include the progressive metal greats SYMPHONY X, DREAM THEATER and SHADOW GALLERY as well as the traditional power metal bands BLIND GUARDIAN and RHAPSODY.
"The Scarecrow", the new album from AVANTASIA — the solo project of EDGUY frontman Tobias Sammet — has registered the following first-week European chart positions:
"The Scarecrow" is being streamed in its entirety at ' .
An e-card for the CD can be accessed at ' .
"The Scarecrow" was released on January 25 as a standard CD as well as rare picture (double) vinyl.
"The Scarecrow" features guest appearances by the following artists:
Alice Cooper (vocals) Amanda Somerville (vocals) Bob Catley (MAGNUM; vocals) Jorn Lande (ex-MASTERPLAN; vocals) Kai Hansen (GAMMA RAY; guitar) Michael Kiske (ex-HELLOWEEN; vocals) Oliver Hartmann Roy Khan (KAMELOT; vocals) Rudolf Schenker (SCORPIONS; guitar)
Polish avantgarde/metal band ETERNAL DEFORMITY will release its next album, "Frozen Circus", on February 29 via Code666. The CD will be distributed by SPV in Germany and Aural Music in all other territories.
"Frozen Circus" was recorded at Zed Studio with help from Tomasz Zalewski.
The track listing for the album is as follows:
01. Retrospection 02. The Force of your Heart 03. Unholy Divine 04. Little 15 05. Crime 06. So Silent 07. Thor's Message 08. Endless Night 09. Lovelorn
Check out the song "Lovelorn" on the ' .
ETERNAL DEFORMITY was founded in 1993 and has released four records so far: "Forgotten Distant Time" (1994), "Nothing Lasts Forever" (1998), "In The Abyss Of Dreams... Furious Memories" (2000), and "The Serpent Design" (2002).
"01011001", the new rock opera from AYREON — the brainchild of Dutch guitarist/composer Arjen Lucassen — has entered the Dutch "alternative chart" at position No. 1 and the overall Dutch album chart at No. 2 — the highest Dutch chart positions so far for any AYREON release! The album also entered the German album chart at number 18, which is the highest ever for AYREON and for any InsideOut Music release. It also entered the Swedish album charts at number 54, and the French charts at number 90 — again the band's highest positions ever in those countries.
In other news, "01011001" will be released on vinyl. The details and artwork are still being finalized, but you can look forward to a triple album on colored vinyl.
The complete list of musicians who appear on the album is as follows:
Vocalists:
Daniel Gildenlöw (PAIN OF SALVATION) Tom Englund (EVERGREY) Hansi Kürsch (BLIND GUARDIAN) Anneke van Giersbergen (AGUA DE ANNIQUE, THE GATHERING) Jonas Renkse (KATATONIA) Bob Catley (MAGNUM) Jorn Lande (MASTERPLAN) Floor Jansen (AFTER FOREVER) Steve Lee (GOTTHARD) Magali Luyten (VIRUS IV) Ty Tabor (KING'S X) Simone Simons (EPICA) Liselotte Hegt (DIAL) Phideaux Marjan Welman Wudstik Arjen Lucassen
Instrumentalists:
Arjen Lucassen: Guitar, Keyboards, Synths, Bass Guitar, Programming Tomas Bodin (THE FLOWER KINGS): Keyboards Derek Sherinian (PLANET X): Keyboards Joost van den Broek (AFTER FOREVER, STAR ONE): Keyboards Michael Romeo (SYMPHONY X): Guitar Lori Linstruth (ex-STREAM OF PASSION): Guitar Ed Warby (GOREFEST): Drums Jeroen Goossens (FLAIRCK): Flute Ben Mathot (DIS): Violin David Faber: Cello
Calgary, Alberta, Canada-based metallers DIVINITY recently flimed a video for the song "Plasma" with director Doug Cook. Check out pictures from the video shoot at ' .
"Plasma" comes off the group's debut album, "Allegory", due on March 28 via Nuclear Blast Records.
Check out audio samples at ' .
DIVINITY is:
James Duncan - Guitars Brett Duncan - Drums Sacha Laskow - Lead Guitars, Vocals Nick Foster - Bass, Vocals
Holland's Sworn Records has announced the signing of the Ukrainian dark metal act CAPITOLLIUM.
According to a press release, "CAPITOLLIUM were formed in the year 2000 in Lviv. They have to date released four albums on Eastern European labels. Their upcoming album, 'Bloodfall of Flesh', will be their first with global distribution.
"The album features nine tracks of symphonic dark metal, most comparable to a mix of SEPTIC FLESH and more black metal-orientated bands such as ROTTING CHRIST and DIMMU BORGIR. The album furthermore features female backing vocals performed by a professional opera singer!"
"Bloodfall of Flesh" is scheduled for release in May. A preview MP3 is available on the ' .
An e-card for DEATH ANGEL new album, "Killing Season", can be accessed at ' . Due on February 26, 2008 via Nuclear Blast Records, the CD was recorded at Studio 606 in Northridge, California with producer Nick Raskulinecz, who has previously worked with FOO FIGHTERS, RUSH, VELVET REVOLVER, SHADOWS FALL and STONE SOUR, among other acts.
"Killing Season" track listing:
01. Lord of Hate 02. Sonic Beatdown 03. Dethroned 04. Carnival Justice 05. Buried Alive 06. Soulless 07. The Noose 08. When Worlds Collide 09. God vs God 10. Steal the Crown 11. Resurrection Machine
Swedish viking metal act MANEGARM will play Russia for the first time in April. The dates are as follows:
April 19 - Moscow, RUS @ Gorod April 20 - St.Peterburg, RUS @ Arktika
MANEGARM recently recruited drummer Jacob Hallegren for its upcoming live appearances. Jacob made his live debut with the band on December 7 at Hedon in Zwolle, Holland.
MANEGARM's latest album, "Vargstenen" ("The Wolfstone"), entered the Swedish chart at position No. 59 back in May 2007. The CD was recorded at Studio Underground with producer Pelle Saether.
The new CD is MANEGARM's first for Black Lodge after a ten-year collaboration with Displeased Records.
Swedish progressive metal titans OPETH have set "Watershed" as the title of their forthcoming album, due out on June 3 via Roadrunner Records (one day earlier internationally). The CD, recorded in the band's native Sweden and produced by frontman/guitarist Mikael Akerfeldt and Jens Bogren, is a masterwork that follows the time-honored OPETH tradition; its modern yet timeless, progressive yet paying homage to the sounds of classic rock.
According to a press release, "Watershed" is truly one of those special records that cycles through a variety of moods, speeds and textures, complete with lots of subtleties and nuances of sound. Because of its expansive scope, "Watershed" is destined to land the album atop many "best-of" lists. Album opener "Coil" is a gorgeous acoustic number, featuring local folk vocalist Nathalie Lorichs, while "Heir Apparent" will knock listeners unconscious with its blunt force metal. Always one to defy the rules, OPETH posits sung vocals over artillery-like blast beats on "The Lotus Eater", cementing their reputation as innovators and redefiners.
"Watershed" combines elements of modern metal, prog rock, free jazz and hints of European folk music, all of which come together for a seamless, unique collection of songs that will leave an indelible mark upon all who listen.
The follow-up to 2005's "Ghost Reveries" is the first OPETH release to feature new guitarist Fredrik Akesson and drummer Martin Axenrot and is the band's second effort for Roadrunner Records.
Legendary British drummer Nicholas Barker (DIMMU BORGIR, CRADLE OF FILTH, LEAVES' EYES, ATROCITY, BRUJERIA) has laid down the drum tracks for the debut album from the Venezuelan black/death metal band NOCTIS IMPERIUM. Barker arrived in Caracas on January 18 to record his parts for "Glorification of Evil: The Age of the Golden Down", which will be released later in the year via Ariah Records.
NOCTIS IMPERIUM is: Aeneas Inferno: Vocals/Guitars Hephaestion: Bass Aegrimonia: Guitars
For more information on NOCTIS IMPERIUM, go to the ' .
FOLKEARTH, an international music project created by musicians playing folk and Viking metal, is preparing to release its fourth album, "Father of Victory" (' ), via Stygian Crypt Productions. The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. The Forlorn Knight (3:34) 02. The Purest Breed (4:26) 03. Sleipnir (4:45) 04. What Glory Remains (3:57) 05. Dawn in Tir Na N'Og (4:07) 06. The Will of Odin (5:52) 07. Father of Victory (3:08) 08. Charles Martel (5:17) 09. Wallachian Warlord (4:28) 10. The Iron Wolf (4:12) 11. Heroes in the Sky (4:01) 12. Carmina Bellica (3:32)
Check out audio samples at the ' .
FOLKEARTH was established in 2003 as a musical forum representing over 20 established folk and metal musicians joined together from all parts of the world. FOLKEARTH is made up of members from Sweden, Austria, USA, Germany, Lithuania, England and several other countries. This unique worldwide collaboration also features members from bands like YGGDRASIL, FOREFATHER, URUK HAI and THE SOIL BLEEDS BLACK. All of the musicians involved offer up traditional instrument recordings which are then edited and mixed with heavy metal sonorities, hence offering the most unique and concise folk metal atmospheres ever recorded.
Former CONSTRUCDEAD/current GODSIC frontman Peter Tuthill has issued the following update:
"In November I got the opportunity to try out for the Swedish metal band CARNAL FORGE as singer! Having been a fan of their music since they released their debut, there was no hesitation from my part to try out. I went to Sala and did a couple of auditions, and shortly after I got the job!
"This has been secret up 'till now, so I couldn't tell you all earlier. In March-April CARNAL FORGE will hit the road and do a European co-headline tour with the legendary British thrashers ONSLAUGHT! The band will also play numerous festivals this summer, and more tours are on the horizon. For the time being I need to focus all my energy on CARNAL FORGE, so the last recordings for the GODSIC album [Peter's solo project] will unfortunately have to be put on hold for the time being. I will have this album out sometime during this year though, but at this point I can't say when. Hope to see some of you on the tour!"
CARNAL FORGE's tour with ONSLAUGHT is scheduled to kick off in April. A list of dates can be found ' .
Vilnius, Lithuania-based pagan metallers OBTEST have inked a deal with Osmose Productions for release of their new album, entitled "Gyvybes Medis". The CD will be distributed in music shops and via independent retailers worldwide, including Japan, Canada, Australia, USA and all of Europe. Ledo Takas, the group's longtime label, has secured an exclusive right to release and distribute new OBTEST album in the Baltic States.
"Gyvybes Medis" will be made available in three different formats: digipak compact disk, picture vinyl record and collectors' A5-sized CD book. An April 4 release is expected.
Norwegian symphonic black metallers DIMMU BORGIR were honored in the "Best Video" category at the 36th annual Spellemann awards (the Norwegian equivalent to the Grammy Awards) for their ' . The largest and oldest Norwegian music awards show was held Saturday night (February 2) at the Spektrum in Oslo, Norway and was broadcast live on the Norwegian channel TV2.
The "The Serpentine Offering" video was shot by Swedish director Patric Ullaeus (LACUNA COIL, KAMELOT) of Revolver Film Company AB and was DIMMU BORGIR's first promotional clip for their most recent album, "In Sorte Diaboli".
The nominees in the "Best Video" category were as follows:
DIMMU BORGIR - "The Serpentine Offering" (Nuclear Blast) HEROES & ZEROS - "A Strange Constellation" (Nightliner/Universal) MY MIDNIGHT CREEPS - "Don`t Let’Em Bring You Down" (MMC Records) TURBONEGRO - "Do You Do You Dig Destruction" (Scandinavian Leather Recordings) WE - "Hurdy Gurdy" (Nun Music)
DIMMU BORGIR was also nominated in the "Metal" category for its "In Sorte Diaboli" CD, but lost out to MAYHEM, who won the award for "Ordo Ad Chao".
Nocturno Culto of the long-running Norwegian black metallers DARKTHRONE has issued the following update:
"We have recorded four songs for the next album, 'Dark Thrones And Black Flags'. We sort of tried to keep the title 'hidden,' but my mouth ran over talking to Metal Hammer (damn!!!), so anyways, that's the title, and NO, it's not punkish you bastards, it's METAL TO THE BONE!!! I tell ya, what we allow ourself to do these days.... riff-wise, I mean. IT'S A BLOODY FEAST!!!! The plan is to have the final recordings ready in July at latest. I know, I know, this album comes fast, but not to worry, we'll use just a tad more time on the album after that."
DARKTHRONE's latest album, "F.O.A.D.", was released in September 2007 via Peaceville. An EP, "NWOBHM" (New Wave Of Black Heavy Metal), preceded the full-length CD on July 23.
Legendary Norwegian black metallers MAYHEM were honored in the "Metal" category at the 36th annual Spellemann awards (the Norwegian equivalent to the Grammy Awards) for their latest release, ' . The largest and oldest Norwegian music awards show was held earlier tonight (Saturday, February 2) at the Spektrum in Oslo, Norway and was broadcast live on the Norwegian channel TV2.
The nominees in the "Metal" category were as follows:
AUDREY HORNE - "Le Fol" (Indie Recordings) DIMMU BORGIR - "In Sorte Diaboli" (Nuclear Blast) MAYHEM - "Ordo Ad Chao" (Season Of Mist) RED HARVEST - "A Greater Darkness" (Season Of Mist)
"Ordo Ad Chao" entered the Norwegian album chart at position No. 12, the band's highest position ever.
"Ordo Ad Chao" was also nominated in the "Metal" category at Alarmprisen 2007 (Alarm Awards), which was held on October 27, 2007 at Sentrum Scene in Oslo, Norway (the award eventually went to DIMMU BORGIR).
Another new DISMEMBER track, entitled "Death Conquers All", has been posted on a special DISMEMBER MySpace page launched by Regain Records. The song comes off the Swedish death metallers' forthcoming self-titled album, due in Europe on February 18 via Regain. The CD was recorded at B.A.S. studios with producer Nico Elgstrand (MURDER SQUAD, KRUX, MERCILESS, ENTOMBED).
"Dismember" (' ) track listing:
01. Death Conquers All 02. Europa Burns 03. Under A Bloodred Sky 04. The Hills Have Eyes 05. Legion 06. Tide Of Blood 07. Combat Fatigue 08. No Honor In Death 09. To End It All 10. Dark Depths 11. Black Sun
Swedish progressive death metallers SKYFIRE have entered Powernest Studios to begin recording its as-yet-untitled follow-up to 2004's "Spectral", due later in the year via Florida's Pivotal Rockordings. Mixing and mastering will be handled by Jonas Kjellgren (SCAR SYMMETRY) at Black Lounge Studios (SONIC SYNDICATE, SCAR SYMMETRY, THE ABSENCE, ZONARIA).
Commented the band: "Drums, rhythm guitars, keys, and something we can't yet reveal to you are done for two songs. Two more songs will probably be finished by the end of this week! Unfortunately at this point it is too early to tell how many songs will be on the album because we have a lot of material written and we are even doing some last-minute writing in the studio."
SKYFIRE bassist and founding member Martin Hanner previously stated about the upcoming CD, "Expect the traditional SKYFIRE sound, but also expect some new elements that we have never experimented with before. We also cannot wait to work with Jonas Kjellgren, who will be mixing and mastering the new record. He is one of the most talented up and coming producers in metal right now, and we are certain that he will take SKYFIRE's sound to the next level!"
PAIN/HYPOCRISY mainman Peter Tägtgren has issued the following update:
"We wanna thank everybody that voted for PAIN on the Swedish Metal Awards and made our album the 'Best Metal Album Of The Year' 2007.
"I'm working on the new [PAIN CD] and it will see the light in September 2008, with a lot of bonus from the shows we did in 2007.
"Michael Bohlin [PAIN guitarist] will sit out the NIGHTWISH tour because of work, but he will be back for the festivals. Niclas [Engelin] from ENGEL will help us out on this one."
PAIN will support NIGHTWISH on their European tour beginning on February 17 in Vilnius, Lithuania.
AFM Records has set a March 7, 2008 release date for AVANTASIA's "The Metal Opera - Gold Edition", a two-CD set containing the first two AVANTASIA albums, "The Metal Opera" (2001) and "The Metal Opera Pt. 2" (2002). The package will come in a luxury digibook with golden CDs, 40-sided booklet, liner notes, previously unpublished photos and bonus material.
Drummer Hans Rutten of Holland's THE GATHERING has issued the following update:
"Century Media is about to release 'Sand and Mercury', a 10-CD [!] box with all our Century Media releases gathered in a nice box for a fair price (around 30/35 euros). I wrote liner notes for every album. The box set is limited to 3,000 copies.
"This year it's 10 years ago we released 'How To Measure A Planet?', so you figure out what will be Century Media's next special release.
"Another special release: Vic Records will re-release 'Downfall - The Early Years' this spring. It contains the 'Downfall' CD as well as an interesting six-track demo we did for 'Almost A Dance' with former vocalist Bart Smits. Recorded at the beginning of 1992, this demo was the last recording we did with Bart. Very interesting material.
"The owner of Vic Records, Roel, is an old school mate of me and Bart and kindly asked us to do a re-release, as the original 'Downfall' CD isn't available anymore.
"This release is a true revival of the old-school demo tape days. More info at www.vicrecords.com.
"And back into the present: We were asked by ProductieHuis & MusicLab Brabant to write music for a dance ensemble. This cross-over combination of music and dance will be called 'Arr. 2'.
"And yes, we are working on new material. Trust us and don't worry. You will hear new GATHERING songs in 2008."
JON OLIVA'S PAIN, the band led by SAVATAGE mastermind Jon Oliva, has revealed the cover artwork for its upcoming album, "Global Warning", due in Europe on March 21 via AFM Records (Locomotive Records in the U.S.).
"Global Warning" features a guest appearance by guitarist Ralph Santolla (OBITUARY, ex-DEICIDE, DEATH, ICED EARTH) on two songs: "Adding the Cost" and "You'll Never Know".
Finnish metallers CHILDREN OF BODOM have revealed the track listing for the new album, "Blooddrunk", due in Europe on April 7, 2008 via Spinefarm Records (two days later in Finland).
"Blooddrunk" was recorded and produced by Mikko Karmila at Petrax and Finnvox studios in Finland during October, November and December 2007, except vocals, which were recorded by Peter Tägtren, and keyboards, which were recorded by Janne Wirman at Petrax studios, Finland, during October, November and December 2007. The CD was mixed at Finnvox by Mikko Karmila in November 2007 and it was mastered at Finnvox by Mika Jussila in December 2007.
"Blooddrunk" track listing: 01. Hellhounds On My Trail 02. Blooddrunk 03. LoBodomy 04. One Day You Will Cry 05. Smile Pretty For The Devil 06. Tie My Rope 07. Done With Everything, Die For Nothing 08. Banned From Heaven 09. Roadkill Morning
CHILDREN OF BODOM will release a new single, "Blooddrunk", in Finland on February 27, 2008 (March 3 in the rest of Europe).
The band recently traveled to Germany to film two videos, both of which were produced by Katapult Filmproduktion.
Speaking to Revolver magazine, CHILDREN OF BODOM frontman Alexi Laiho stated about the songwriting process for "Blooddrunk", "This time we wanted to make things more difficult. So I've been including some progressive sounds. Not in an annoying way, though; if we do progressive music, we want people to actually listen to it. We won't become a DEPECHE MODE cover band. If we ever get tired of playing metal. That's the end of CHILDREN OF BODOM."
According to Revolver magazine, two PANTERA fans — Houston's Joey Riordan and Toronto's Mangra — are trying to get a commemorative "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott statue erected in his hometown in Dallas. As inspiration, they cite existing monuments to Jimi Hendrix (in Seattle), Elvis Presley (in Memphis), and THIN LIZZY frontman Phil Lynott (Dublin, Ireland). "Getting Dimebag Darrell a statue in Dallas matters," Riordan tells Revolver. "That was, his memory will live on."
According to Kerrang! magazine, former 3 COLOURS RED / THERAPY? / SKYCLAD drummer Keith Baxter has passed away.
Baxter, who shot to fame with 3 COLOURS RED in the '90s, died of liver failure in hospital on January 4, 2008, surrounded by family and friends. He was 36 years old.
Baxter was born in Lancaster, Lancashire, UK. As a teenager he became a founding member of SKYCLAD, recording five albums with them before leaving in 1995 to join 3 COLOURS RED, with whom he recorded two UK top 40 albums ("Pure" and "Revolt") which included six Top 40 singles.
Following 3 COLOURS RED's split in 1999, he formed ELEVATION with former 3 COLOURS RED bandmate Pete Vuckovic. The group signed with Sony but was dropped a year later. He briefly played with the Northern Irish band THERAPY? in 2002.
3 COLOURS RED reunited to record a third album ("The Union of Souls") in 2004, but split up again the following year.
DEMONICAL, the new Swedish death metal band featuring past and present members from CENTINEX, GRAVE, REGURGITATE, INTERMENT, AMARAN, WORLD BELOW and DELLAMORTE, has parted ways with vocalist Ludvig Engellau due to "musical and personal reasons." According to the group, "DEMONICAL will continue on the marked out path with the help of a session vocalist so all booked and projected shows are going to happen as agreed. A new full-time vocalist will be announced during the first quarter of 2008."
DEMONICAL will support DISMEMBER on four dates in Finland in January.
The band's debut album, "Servants of the Unlight", was released in April via Germany's Cyclone Empire Records. The group toured Europe with NUNSLAUGHTER and NOMINON, and took part in Germany's Up From The Ground festival. They also supported GRAVE on select Scandinavian dates.
SEPULTURA guitarist Andreas Kisser has issued the following update:
"Yesterday we did another SEPUL-event, a benefit soccer game we do every year to collect food for charity. More than 3,000 people showed up, each one of them brought 1kg of non-perishable goods, it was a great afternoon! The game was organized by Paulo, our bass player, with his brothers, friends and also the support of a local TV station, local soccer clubs (Atletico MG and America MG, who is the owner of the stadium the game was realized, the Idependencia Stadium BH) and Topper, who made all the uniforms for both teams.
"The Sepultura And Friends team was a mixture of musicians and professional soccer players and the other team, Uniao Solidaria, was composed by veterans players, mainly from Atletico MG. The game ended in a draw, 6 to 6, a record-scoring game for us, SEPULTURA.
"Thanks for all the people involved, especially the crowd who came to see a good game and to help people suffering from hunger. Hopefully we will continue to do this game, every year, growing with the help and support from all.
"The game closed a great year of 2007 for me, my projects, solo album, SEPULTURA and my family. We feel a more mature band, especially with our new drummer Jean and now we are ready to write a new album for next year.
"Thanks for the support of you all, in our shows, on your comments, criticism and eulogies. I wish you all a great Christmas and a great new year!"
Legendary producer Waldemar Sorychta (GRIP INC., LACUNA COIL, THE GATHERING, MOONSPELL) will attend the CD-release party for his band ENEMY OF THE SUN's upcoming album, "Shadows", on Thursday, January 17, 2008 at Europa in Brooklyn, New York (an event hosted by The End Records as part of the bi-monthly NWOBHM nights at the venue). Throughout the night Sorychta will meet fans while music from the "Shadows" CD is being played. There will also be live performances from RANDALL FLAGG, SUN DESCENDS, LAPDOG OF SATAN and GWYNBLEIDD.
"Shadows" will be released in North America via The End Records on January 22, 2007 with an exclusive bonus track called "Enemigo del Sol". The track listing for the effort is as follows:
01. Emptiness 02. Burning Bridges 03. Lives Based On Conflicts 04. Clearly Surreal 05. Carousel 06. Twenty Three Feet 07. Feel The Beating 08. Satisfied By Ego Purposes 09. Brain Sucking Machine 10. Weak 11. Liar 12. Lost In Time 13. Enemigo del Sol (US bonus track)
Says Sorychta about the band, "I call ENEMY OF THE SUN my family because in a family you have to feel comfortable. If not, it's not a good family. ENEMY is a good one. It's the way I wake up and feel the excitment about this band. It's the way I go to bed and want to stay awake because of this band. Music without limits, pure power saved in every note, deepest emotions bound in tones, burning pleasure in each single tune."
ENEMY OF THE SUN is:
Waldemar Sorychta - guitar Jules Naveri - vocals Daniel Zeman - drums Alla Fedynitch – bass
Australian atmospheric/gothic/doom metal band THE ETERNAL has issued the following update:
"This weekend Marty lays down the drum tracks for the new [THE ETERNAL] album 'Kartika'. Mark, Terry and Marty are heading to Mixmaster Studios in Adelaide tomorrow to met up with engineer Ian Miller and get this show on the road!
"It has nearly been three years since we recorded 'Sleep of Reason', so we are really looking forward to getting into the studio and laying down some new tracks!
"We have guitars & vocals locked in for the rest of December and January, so we are feeling pretty confident the album will be complete and ready to master in February 2008."
"Kartika" projected track listing (in no particular order):
01. Self Inflicted 02. Means for an Ending 03. Blood 04. Without Reason 05. A Pale Reflection 06. Illuminate 07. Walk Beside You 08. Brighter Day 09. Kartika 10. Silence 11. July 12. Lost Our Way 13. Inside the Grey 14. I've Seen The Dream Through Someone Else's Eyes 15. Sunshine 16. Frozen Sun 17. Last Embrace
MIDNATTSOL, the German-Norwegian band featuring vocalist Carmen Elise Espenaes (the younger sister of LEAVES' EYES singer Liv Kristine), will release its second album, entitled "Nordlys" (translated: Northern Light), on March 28, 2008 via Napalm Records. The CD will be mixed by Tue Madsen while the mastering will be handled by Mika Jusilla at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Finland.
01. Open Your Eyes 02. Skogens Lengsel 03. Northern Light 04. Konkylie 05. Wintertimes 06. Race Of Time 07. New Horizon 08. River Of Virgin Soil 09. En Natt I Nord 10. Octobre (limited-edition bonus track)
Portuguese metal/goth rock band HEAVENWOOD has inked a deal with Recital Records. The group will enter the studio in February/March 2008 to begin recording its third album for a late spring/early summer release.
After the departure in 2004 of main songwritter and guitarist Ricardo Dias, HEAVENWOOD went on a lengthy hiatus. Now Ricardo Dias has returned along with new drummer Luiz Ferreira (ex-SECRECY from Portugal).
HEAVENWOOD 2007 is:
Ernesto Guerra - Vocals Ricardo Dias - Guitars and Vocals Bruno Silva - Guitar Luiz Ferreira - Drums
HEAVENWOOD previously relelased two albums — "Diva" and "Swallow" — and played shows with IN FLAMES, ATROCITY, THEATRE OF TRAGEDY and LAKE OF TEARS, among others.
Swedish melodic death metallers DARK TRANQUILLITY have issued the following update:
"To coincide with our shows in the Land Of The Rising Sun [Japan], 'Haven' [2000] and 'Projector' [1999] will be released in new versions. Both albums will feature lengthy liner notes by sensei [Mikael] Stanne [vocals] detailing the writing and recording process as well as the inner working of the band at the time of creating the songs. 'Projector' will feature the extra track 'Exposure' — previously unreleased in Japan — and 'Haven' will be graced with 'Cornered' as bonus song."
DARK TRANQUILLITY and THE HAUNTED will team up for the "The Double Titans Tour In Japan" in January. Confirmed dates are as follows:
Jan. 16 - Osaka, JPN - Big Cat Jan. 17 - Nagoya, JPN - Club Quattro Jan. 18 - Tokyo, JPN - O-East
DRACONIAN have completed their new album. Entitled "Turning Season Within" it was recorded at Fascination Street Studios by producers Jens Bogren and David Castillo (OPETH, KATATONIA).
On their lastest output, DRACONIAN continue to uniquely unite Doom and Gothic Metal. Thus, "Turning Season Within" comprises more up-tempo parts, an enhanced heaviness, and the band΄s most personal lyrics to date. "Failing and breaking releationships, the resulting pain, and the art of dealing with it is an essential theme", says vocalist Anders.
Belgian artist Dennis Sibeijn will express the band΄s vision graphically.
Turning Season Within will be released on February 29, 2008
Finnish/Swedish symphonic metallers NIGHTWISH will release a "platinum" edition of their latest album, "Dark Passion Play" (release date to be confirmed), which will include all 13 songs from the original version plus five bonus tracks:
01. Erämaan Viimeinen (new track) 02. The Escapist (new track) 03. Meadows of Heaven (orchestral version) 04. The Poet and the Pendulum (demo) 05. Bye, Bye Beautiful (DJ Orkidea remix).
On December 5, NIGHTWISH will release a Finland-only single, "Erämaan Viimeinen" (Last of the Wilds). "Erämaan Viimeinen" is the instrumental "Last of the Wilds" off "Dark Passion Play", but with Finnish lyrics, courtesy of Jonsu from the all-girl pop/rock band INDICA, who will open for NIGHTWISH in Scandinavia.
WITHIN TEMPTATION vocalist Sharon den Adel and LEAVES' EYES singer Liv Kristine performed with DELAIN on November 2 at Broerenkerk in Zwolle, Holland. They reprised their respective guest vocalist roles from DELAIN's 2006 debut album, "Lucidity". Watch fan-filmed video footage from the concert below.
DELAIN is the Dutch gothic rock project founded by ex-WITHIN TEMPTATION keyboardist Martijn Westerholt (brother of WITHIN TEMPTATION's Robert Westerholt).
LORDI mainman Mr. Lordi has recorded guest vocals for the track "The House Of 1000 Eyes" which will appear on DOMINATION BLACK's "Haunting" mini-CD, due in February 2008 via Violent Journey Records.
"Haunting" track listing: 01. The House Of 1000 Eyes (feat. Mr.Lordi) 02. Shadow King 03. No More Again 04. A World Without Heroes (KISS cover) 05. Evil Has Found A Home
DOMINATION BLACK is: Kari -A- Kilgast - Vocals Teppo Heiskanen - Guitar Ville Viren - Guitar Lauri "Sir" Eerola - Bass Juuso "Welder" Elminen - Synths Juha Beck - Drums
German metallers BRAINSTORM have revealed the cover artwork for their new album, "Downburst", due on January 25 in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy and January 28 in the rest of the world via Metal Blade Records. The CD will be released as a regular jewelcase as well as in a limited edition jakebox (100% plastic-free) including two bonus tracks.
"Downburst" track listing: 01. Falling Spiral Down 02. Fire Walk With Me 03. Stained With Sin 04. Redemption In Your Eyes 05. End In Sorrow 06. How Do You Feel 07. Protect Me From Myself 08. Surrounding Walls 09. Frozen 10. All Alone ------------------ Bonus tracks (limited version): 11. Crawling In Chains 12. Hold Tight
Sweden's TIAMAT will release its new album "Amanethes", on April 18, 2008 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD will be mixed at Studio Woodhouse in Hagen, Germany in January.
TIAMAT's last studio album, "Prey", was released in 2003 through Century Media.
Veteran San Francisco Bay Area metallers TESTAMENT have set "The Formation of Damnation" as the title of their new album, tentatively due in early 2008 via Nuclear Blast Records. the band is currently recording the drums tracks with producer Andy Sneap (MACHINE HEAD, EXODUS, ARCH ENEMY, NEVERMORE) at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California.
TESTAMENT recently recruited Paul Bostaph (SLAYER, EXODUS, FORBIDDEN, SYSTEMATIC) to play the drums on new CD. The group was previously rehearsing and writing new material with British drummer Nick Barker (CRADLE OF FILTH, DIMMU BORGIR), but Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and international work visa issues have prevented Barker from continuing to be involved in the project.
The End Records has set a February 19, 2008 release date for VIRGIN BLACK's "Requiem – Fortissimo", the much-anticipated follow-up to 2007's "Requiem - Mezzo Forte".
On its latest album — the second instalment of a trilogy — VIRGIN BLACK exhumes the death/doom vibe of early PARADISE LOST and MY DYING BRIDE albums. This is by far the band's rawest and heaviest work to date.
The album's cover art was created by esteemed fashion photographer Andrew Dunbar whose work will be seen throughout the series.
Comments singer/keyboardist Rowan London: "I should feel a sense of dread offering up something so atypical for us to be interrogated and scrutinized. But the fearlessness that we inhabited while writing 'Fortissimo' and the 'Requiem' series survives to see its unveiling. An album not so much about death as the absence of life; it's damn heavy but its countenance is far more brutal than its sound could ever be. Long live the 'death choir.'"
You can hear the track "Silent" by visiting The End Records' ' page at this location.
Says London about the song: "The track 'Silent' simultaneously represents both the divergences and links between Fortissimo and Mezzo Forte. I'm sure that it will surprise a few people."
"Requiem – Fortissimo" track listing: 01. The Fragile Breath 02. In Winters Ash 03. Silent 04. God in Dust 05. Lacrimosa (Gather Me) 06. Darkness 07. Forever
The cover artwork for the upcoming album from EDGUY frontman Tobias Sammet's AVANTASIA project, entitled "The Scarecrow", can be found at this location. Due at the end of January via Nuclear Blast Records, the CD is expected to feature guest appearances by the following artists:
Alice Cooper (vocals) Amanda Somerville (vocals) Bob Catley (MAGNUM; vocals) Jorn Lande (ex-MASTERPLAN; vocals) Kai Hansen (GAMMA RAY; guitar) Michael Kiske (ex-HELLOWEEN; vocals) Oliver Hartmann Roy Khan (KAMELOT; vocals) Rudolf Schenker (SCORPIONS; guitar)
"The Scarecrow" track listing: 01. Twisted Mind 02. The Scarecrow 03. Shelter From The Rain 04. Carry Me Over 05. What Kind Of Love 06. Another Angel Down 07. The Toy Master 08. Devil In The Belfry 09. Cry Just A Little 10. I Don't Believe In Your Love 11. Lost In Space
MANOWAR drummer Scott Columbus has told Brazil's NovoMetal.com that he is working on his first solo album.
"Over the past year, I've been working on a solo project, and it's instrumental — there is no vocals, it's all music," he said. "I've got about 80% of the songs [done] and hopefully, in the next year, 2008, it will get released. [Musically it's] a little different from MANOWAR, [but] it's really cool. It's fucking great driving music. You'll see yourself driving at high speeds if you listen to that."
AYREON, the brainchild of Dutch guitarist/composer Arjen Lucassen, has revealed the cover artwork for its new album, "01011001", due in Europe on January 28, 2008 (one day later in the U.S.). The track listing for the effort is as follows:
CD1 - Y: 01. Age Of Shadows (incl. "We Are Forever') 02. Comatose 03. Liquid Eternity 04. Connect The Dots 05. Beneath The Waves (a) Beneath The Waves (b) Face The Facts (c) But A Memory... (d) World Without Walls (e) Reality Bleeds 06. Newborn Race (a) The Incentive (b) The Vision (c) The Procedure (d) Another Life (e) Newborn Race (f) The Conclusion 07. Ride The Comet 08. Web Of Lies
Disc 2 - Earth:
01. The Fifth Extinction (a) Glimmer of Hope (b) World of Tomorrow Dreams (c) Collision Course (d) From the Ashes (e) Glimmer of Hope (reprise) 02. Waking Dreams 03. The Truth Is In Here 04. Unnatural Selection 05. River of Time 06. E=MC2 07. The Sixth Extinction (a) Echoes On The Wind (b) Radioactive Grave (c) 2085 (d) To The Planet Of Red (e) Spirit On The Wind (f) Complete The Circle
The complete list of musicians who appear on the album is as follows:
Vocalists: Daniel Gildenlöw (PAIN OF SALVATION) Tom Englund (EVERGREY) Hansi Kürsch (BLIND GUARDIAN) Anneke van Giersbergen (AGUA DE ANNIQUE, THE GATHERING) Jonas Renkse (KATATONIA) Bob Catley (MAGNUM) Jorn Lande (MASTERPLAN) Floor Jansen (AFTER FOREVER) Steve Lee (GOTTHARD) Magali Luyten (VIRUS IV) Ty Tabor (KING'S X) Simone Simons (EPICA) Liselotte Hegt (DIAL) Phideaux Marjan Welman Wudstik Arjen Lucassen
Instrumentalists: Arjen Lucassen: Guitar, Keyboards, Synths, Bass Guitar, Programming Tomas Bodin (THE FLOWER KINGS): Keyboards Derek Sherinian (PLANET X): Keyboards Joost van den Broek (AFTER FOREVER, STAR ONE): Keyboards Michael Romeo (SYMPHONY X): Guitar Lori Linstruth (ex-STREAM OF PASSION): Guitar Ed Warby (GOREFEST): Drums Jeroen Goossens (FLAIRCK): Flute Ben Mathot (DIS): Violin David Faber: Cello
This message is from the official site of DECAPITATED.
Witold "Vitek" Kieltyka – our brother and dearest friend succumbed to head injuries sustained after a bad van accident while on tour in Russia. He was 23.
One of the youngest and most promising drummers in the genre, together with Decapitated he has consistently released albums both crushing and invigorating in their musicianship.
Extremely talented – he has been involved in other side projects: Dies Irae, Panzer X. He will be missed and can not be replaced.
The metal scene will be much sorrier with his passing…
The Editorial of TheMetalList.com expresses deepest condolences to family, relatives, friends and colleagues of Vitek
"Destiny" tracklisting: 01. Relief 02. Hideaway 03. Destiny 04. Living for You 05. Eternity Awaits 06. Never Crossing Lines 07. To Live Again 08. Dein Marchen 09. Broken Time Machines 10. Ever After
GAMMA RAY recently inked a deal with Steamhammer/SPV. The group's new album, "Land of the Free II" (cover artwork), is scheduled for release in Europe on November 19 (November 16 in Germany). The CD will arrive in the U.S. in January.
"Land of the Free II" will be a conceptual continuation of the group's 1995 classic "Land of the Free", and will contain around 65 minutes of music.
GAMMA RAY produced their new album themselves. All four musicians — Kai Hansen, Henjo Richter (guitar), Dirk Schlächter (bass) and Daniel Zimmermann (drums) — are experienced enough to translate their ideas at the studio. But for the first time in ages, the band allowed themselves the luxury of enlisting outside support for certain stages of the recording process. "We wanted to have a clear head in some areas to be able to concentrate on the important things," Hansen explains the enlistment of Tommy Newton (HELLOWEEN, UFO, etc.) and his Area 51 studio in Celle, where the new material was mixed. Newton also took care of the drum parts as a sound engineer at GAMMA RAY's own studio.
"Land of the Free II" track listing: 01. Into The Storm (3:47) 02. From The Ashes (5:26) 03. Rising Again (0:27) 04. To Mother Earth (5:11) 05. Rain (5:16) 06. Leaving Hell (4:20) 07. Empress (6:22) 08. When The World (5:44) 09. Opportunity (7:14) 10. Real World (5:42) 11. Hear Me Calling (4:14) 12. Insurrection (11:33)
Dutch/Swedish alternative rock band DIAL, featuring bass player/vocalist/guitarist Kristoffer Gildenlöw (formerly of PAIN OF SALVATION), vocalist/bassist LiLo and guitarist Rommert van der Meer, will make its video for the song ' on Friday, October 26 via the group's MySpace and YouTube pages. The clip was created by the Dutch media company D'iMages, which has previously worked with AYREON, STAR ONE, SHADOW GALLERY, AFTER FOREVER, STREAM OF PASSION and LA-VENTURA, among others.
"Beautiful" comes off DIAL's debut album, "Synchronized", which was released in May via ProgRock Records. The CD was recorded at Dead Soul Temple studio in Austria with producer Devon Graves (DEADSOUL TRIBE, ex-PSYCHOTIC WALTZ) and drummer Dirk Bruinenberg (PATRICK RONDAT, ex-ELEGY, CONSORTIUM).
On November 16, EDGUY frontman Tobias Sammet will release two six-track albums — "Lost in Space Part 1" and "Lost in Space Part 2" — from his AVANTASIA project. Apart from the identical title track, both releases will feature completely different, exclusive songs plus videos, a poster, studio reports, a "making-of," a slideshow, and loads of enhanced bonus material, each for the price of a CD single.
The track listing for the two EPs is as follows:
"Lost in Space Part 1": 01. Lost In Space (' clip) 02. Lay All Your Love On Me 03. Another Angel Down (feat. Jorn Lande) 04. The Story Ain't Over (feat. Bob Catley & Amanda Somerville) 05. Return To Avantasia 06. Ride The Sky (feat. Eric Singer on vocals) 07. Lost In Space (video clip) 08. Lost In Space (making of the video clip) 09. Photo Gallery + Poster
"Lost in Space Part 2": 01. Lost In Space 02. Promised Land (feat. Jorn Lande and Michael Kiske) (' clip) 03. Dancing With Tears In My Eyes 04. Scary Eyes 05. In My Defense 06. Lost In Space (alive at Gate studio, feat. Amanda Somerville) 07. The Road To Avantasia (studio report with interview) 08. Slideshow
MACBETH has set "Superangelic Hate Bringers" as the title of the forthcoming album. It was recorded in two different studios including a private studio in Reykjavik, Iceland and New Sins studios in Italy, where the band also mixed and mastered the cd.The fourth studio album will feature 10 brand new tracks and will be released by Dragonheart records / SPV GmbH on November 16th.
Tracklisting: 01. Don't pretend 02. To my falling star 03. Without you 04. Watch us die 05. Don't include me in your dreams 06. Veils 07. H.A.T.E. 08. Grey skies 09. Break the circle 10. (The world) In my mind *Withou you (video) extended version
Finnish folk metallers KORPIKLAANI have issued the following update:
“We have been in the studio again every now and then since last spring, and we have more material ready than is needed for an entire album. It is already mixed and ready.
"The album became quite long, but we just could not drop any of the 14 songs. It was already hard to decide which songs would become bonus tracks. So, we offer to you 14 new songs plus 2 bonus tracks on our upcoming album 'Korven Kuningas', which means 'King of the Woods'.
"This time the album cover will be painted, not Photoshopped. The old man 'Vaari' will be figuring on the cover again, so it will look familiar and faithful to everyone, even though a different technique is used."
"Korven Kuningas" is tentatively scheduled for release in February 2008 via Nuclear Blast Records.
Swedish melodic death/black metallers DEVIAN — who feature in their ranks former MARDUK members Legion (vocals) and Emil Dragutinovic (drums) after their departure from MARDUK — have posted the second "webisode" documenting the recording process for the group's debut album, "Ninewinged Serpent", due on October 22 via Century Media Records. Watch the three-and-a-half-minute clip below.
"Ninewinged Serpent" was recorded at Sweden's Art Decay Studio. Mixing duties were handled by Fredrik Nordström at Studio Fredman (AT THE GATES, ARCH ENEMY, DIMMU BORGIR). The cover artwork was created by Greece's master of dark visuals Seth (PARADISE LOST, SOILWORK, OLD MAN'S CHILD).
"Ninewinged Serpent" track listing: 01. Serenade For The Fallen [Intro] 02. Dressed In Blood 03. Heresy 04. Scarred 05. Suffer The Fools 06. Fatalist 07. Gemini Is The Snake 08. Instigator 09. Remnant Song 10. Ninewinged Serpent
Ukrainian label PaS Records presents long-awaited release of russian Black/Death metal band REDRUM "Mephisto Opressor". 40 minute opus, that consists of 10 songs (including Morbid Angel cover "Dominate") and bonus: two videoclips for song Satisfucktion and Murderedroom, CD is designed with 12 pages booklet that includes all lyrics and info on the band. Powerful guitar pressure, near-eastern, ancient-egyptian melodies, death mystic-occult lyrics will not leave heavy & extreme metal fans, who familiar with creativity of bands like Behemoth, Zyklon, Nile, indifferent. CD is already available in label's mailorder.
Tracklist:
01 - Sa Astridan Sondiczilless 02 - I Am [Atropos Kaa] 03 - Eyecloser [suizide version] 04 - Satis[fuck]tion 05 - Uizilopotchtly [A Bloody Centurion] 06 - Mephisto Opressor 07 - Silence Ov Dead Lambs 08 - Ominous World 09 - Nameless War 10 - Dominate [Morbid Angel Cover]
Contact with label: http://pas-records.com.ua pas-records@ukr.net
Contact with REDRUM: http://murderREDRUM.narod.ru http://myspace.com/murderredrum deth_o_nator@mail.ru, fearfactory@inbox.ru
Italy's NOVEMBRE will release its new album, "The Blue" (cover artwork), on November 5 via Peaceville Records. The CD was recorded at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Finland with producer Mikko Karmila (NIGHTWISH, SENTENCED, AMORPHIS).
"The Blue" track listing: 01. Aenemia 02. Triesteitaliana 03. Cobalt of March 04. Bluecracy 05. Architheme 06. Nascence 07. Iridescence 08. Sound Odyssey 09. Cantus Christi 10. Zenith 11. Argentic 12. Deorbit
NOVEMBRE's latest album, "Materia", came out in 2006. It was the group's first release for the Peaceville label. The group's last CD for Century Media, "Dreams d'Azur", came out in 2002.
German metallers BRAINSTORM have finalized the tracklisting and cover artwork for their brand new single "Fire Walk With Me" due on October 19th (G/A/S/I) and October 22nd (rest of the world) via Metal Blade Records.
The tracklisting is as follows:
Fire Walk With Me (Single-Version) Breathe Worlds Are Comin' Through (live) Painside (live) Fire Walk With Me (Firestarter-Mix)
Asked for why this song is so special for the band, singer Andy B. Franck states: "This is Brainstorm�better then ever! Play it loud and find out yourself! This hits you right in your face!"
Followed by the release of the brand new (yet untitled) album on January 25th (G/A/S/I) and 28th (rest of the world), the German Metal-storm will hit the road again.
Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of the brand new Mark Boals / Magnus Karlsson cooperation THE CODEX on November 9th 2007.
THE CODEX marks the return to recording - after a 3 years hiatus - for Mark Boals, known as one of the best singers ever to work with Yngwie Malmsteen and first class vocalist, awarded in 1999 by BURRN! Magazine readers in Japan as Best Overall singer of the year
"The Codex" tracklisting: 01. Beyond The Dark 02. Raise Your Hands 03. Toxic Kiss 04. Bring Down The Moon 05. Running Out Of Hate 06. Dream Makers 07. Whole Again 08. Mistress Of Death 09. Mystery 10. Prisoner 11. You Can Have It All 12. Garden Of Grief
November 23rd, 2007 will see the release of the brand new EMPIRE album "Chasing Shadows" on METAL HEAVEN. This will be the 4th release from the band and the 1st featuring vocalist Doogie White (ex Rainbow, Cornerstone, Yngwie Malmsteen) and drummer Mike Terrana (Masterplan, Axel Rudi Pell) along side long time bass player, Neil Murray (ex Whitesnake, ex Black Sabbath, ex Gary Moore) and founding member, guitarist Rolf Munkes.
Munkes and White were introduced by Murray in late 2006. They quickly established a formidable writing partnership. The songs were written over a 2 month period near the beginning of 2007. The album went into full production in late Spring and was produced and mixed by Munkes at Empire Studios over the Summer months.
The track list goes as follows: 01. Chasing Shadows, 02. The Alter, 03. Mother Father Holy Ghost, 04. Sail Away, 05. Child Of The Light, 06. Tahigwan Nights, 07. Manic Messiah, 08. Angel And The Gambler, 09. A Story Told, 10. The Rulers Of The World
IMPALED NAZARENE issued the following update on their official site :
Manifest is ready and done. Recorded and mixed at Sonic Pump studio by Tapio Pennanen, mastered at Finnvox studio by Mika Jussila. Cover artwork and lay-out by Ritual. Final track order:
1. Intro: Greater Wrath 2. The Antichrist Files 3. Mushroom Truth 4. You Don�T Rock Hard 5. Pathogen 6. Pandemia 7. The Calling 8. Funeral For Despicable Pigs 9. Planet Nazarene 10. Blueprint For Your Cultures Apocalypse 10. Goat Justice 12. Die Insane 13. Original Pig Rig 14. Suicide Song 15. When Violence Commands The Day 16. Dead Return
Ben Moody and David Hodges, the duo behind the EVANESCENCE hit songs "Bring Me To Life" and "Fallen", have teamed up again to write and produce the new CELINE DION song "This Time", set to appear on her new album, "Taking Chances", due out November 13 on Columbia.
The St.Petersburg band F.R.Y. (Modern Melodic Death Metal / Metalcore) has released the Internet single "Illusions.ru".
Track List: 1. ' (5MB) 2. ' (4MB)
Recorded at: Egorov Studio, DDHStudio, 2007 Mixed and mastered by: Dron Photos & design by: Alissa The single, including cover artwork and lyrics, is available for download from the band's official website www.fry-band.net. Besides, the promo video is coming soon!
AYREON, the brainchild of Dutch guitarist/composer Arjen Lucassen, has posted audio samples (' , ' ) of the next two guest singers who will appear on the band's upcoming album, tentatively due late 2007/early 2008: Phideaux Xavier and AFTER FOREVER frontwoman Floor Jansen. Other vocalists scheduled to appear on the CD include Bob Catley (MAGNUM), Anneke van Giersbergen (THE GATHERING), Jonas P. Renske (KATATONIA), Jorn Lande (MASTERPLAN), Tom S. Englund (EVERGREY), Ty Tabor (KING'S X), Magali Luyten (VIRUS IV), Simone Simons (EPICA) and Liselotte Hegt (DIAL). A total of fifteen singers have been confirmed to guest on the album, with more to be added.
Folk metal band Wolfsangel from St. Petersburg, Russia celebrated their 5th anniversary in a special way. They had changed their name to Wolfmare. Let us note that this band has a 3-album contract with famous Austrian label CCP Records. The first of them, Whitemare Rhymes, will be released in November. They had also updated their official site. Now it can be found at www.wolfmare.com
Todays's exactly 10 years since the sad tragedy. The vocalist of great Russian doom metal band SCALd was found dead 10 years ago. We remeber Agyl... Especiaaly big is this loss for close people and friends, who were in one group with Agyl. In our ' .
Also we have the interview with ex-bassist of SCALD - Velingor. '
Legendary New Jersey thrashers OVERKILL will release their new album, "Immortalis", on October 9 via Bodog Music. The group's collaboration with Bodog reunites OVERKILL with Jonny and Marsha Zazula, previous owners of Megaforce Records, the label responsible for putting metal on the map and bringing OVERKILL's New Jersey thrash metal to the world. The Zazulas are now a part of the Bodog Music team in the United States.
"Immortalis" track listing: 01. Devils in the Mist 02. What it Takes 03. Skull and Bones (feat. LAMB OF GOD's Randy Blythe) 04. Shadow of a Doubt 05. Hellish Pride 06. Walk through Fire 07. Head On 08. Charlie Get Your Gun 09. Hell Is 10. Overkill V
In Flames' new track "Abnegation" can be heard online ' . The song will appear on the upcoming "Bam Margera Presents...Viva La Bands, Vol. 2" CD/DVD compilation, which is scheduled for a September 04th release date through Ferret/Filthy Note.
SPV has set an October 12 German release date for Moonspell's new CD, "Under SatanÆ", which consists of re-recordings of the band's legendary Ep "Under the Moonspell" (1994) as well as their first demo "Anno SatanÆ" and their sole track as Morbid God, "Serpent Angel". All songs were re-arranged and revamped in order to "underline their revered distinction as underground classics but now with a mature dark energy and class," according to a press release. "The full-length Cd (eight songs and around five instrumental compositions) was recorded at Denmark's Antfarm Studios with Tue Madsen (The Haunted, Dark Tranquillity, Rob Halford)."
"Under SatanÆ" track listing (not in final order):
01. Halla alle halla al rabka halla (Praeludium/Incantatum Solistitium) 02. Tenebrarum Oratorium (Andamento I/Erudit Compendyum) 03. Interludium/Incantatum Oequinoctum 04. Tenebrarum Oratorium (Andamento Ii/Erotic Compendyum) 05. Opus Diabolicum (Andamento IiI/Instrumental Compendyum) 06. Chorai Lusitânia! (Epilogus/Incantatam Maresia) 07. Intro 08. Goat on Fire 09. Ancient Winter Goddess 10. Wolves From The Fog 11. Outro 12. Serpent Angel
SHAMAN (formerly Shaaman), the revamped Brazilian band featuring drummer Ricardo Confessori alongside guitarist Leo Mancini, vocalist Thiago Bianchi and bassist Fernando Quesada, has posted the cover artwork for its new album, "Immortal", at this location. Due in November via Italy's Scarlet Records, the Cd will feature the following track listing:
01. Renovatti 02. Inside Chains 03. Tribal by Blood 04. Immortal 05. One Life ' 06. In the Dark 07. Strength 08. Freedom 09. Never Yield 10. The Yellow Brick Road
The song "One Life" can be streamed at this location.
Guitarist Steve Smyth has officially parted ways with NEVERMORE, citing personal and business differences.
According to Smyth: "All things find their end eventually, and at this time, I wish to make it clear that this was mutually agreed between the band and myself.
I will continue on with other aspects of my music career, including the upcoming release of The EssenEss Project, an all instrumental album, in the vein of progressive rock, that is now finished and being prepared for release.
On U.D.O.'s official site, there is the following announcement :
"U.D.O. will do a "Best of" - album which will be released on December 7th and everybody has the chance to contribute at the song selection there, with the album really deserves the title "best of".
To take part is very easy: send an email with maximum 3 titles to best-of@udo-online.de. Deadline for the voting is September 15th and there is only one vote per person allowed!
You can trace the continuous updated score of the voting on the website in short."
LIZZY BORDEN's new album, entitled "Appointment with Death", will be released on October 2nd via Metal Blade Records. It was produced by L. Borden and J. Scott, recorded at the Zanzibar studios in N. Hollywood CA and was mixed by Erik Rutan (Hate Eternal/ex-Morbid Angel) at Mana sound in Florida.
"Appointment with Death" tracklisting: 01. Abnormal 02. Appointment with Death 03. Live forever 04. Bloody Tears 05. The Death of Love 06. Tomorrow never comes 07. Under your Skin 08. Perfect World (I don't wanna live) 09. Somthin's crawlin 10. (We are) the only ones 11. The Darker side
Трек-лист альбома: 1. Who Did It? 2. Nice Place For A Sad Story 3. Snow White 4. Red Road In Purple Haze 5. "Your Hate Is Like A Poison Apple" 6. Bubble Bath 7. Pit Muses Have No Pity 8. A Rose For Michelle 9. "You're Gone With My Heart" 10. The Afterguide 11. Sonny On His Way 12. "Someday We'll Meet...I Hope" 13. Strayed Moppet (Live @ CT4FC Presentation)
Трек-лист бонус-диска: 1. The Opening 2. When Love Comes 3. Kisses In The Rain 4. The Ball 5. Stealing The Car / The Night Ride 6. Life's Not Fair 7. Yellow Roses 8. The Long Long Way 9. Someday We'll Meet...I Hope
HELLOWEEN are about to release their twelfth studio album, entitled "Gambling With The Devil" on October 23, 2007 (USA), October 26, 2007 (Germany) and October 29, 2007 (rest of Europe). The producer of this new release will be once again Charlie Bauerfeind. HELLOWEEN recorded at the Mi Sueno studios in Tenerife. Tracklisting has not yet been revealed. Check the album's cover below.
EXODUS' upcoming album will be entitled "The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A".
EXODUS guitarist Gary Holt said for the album's title:
"Why Exhibit A you might ask? Because we already have four songs recorded and finished for the next album, which we will resume recording some time around the end of the year, and this is a two part record. Part two being exhibit B. So yes, there will be another Exodus album finished hopefully soon after the release of this one."
The track listing is as follows: 1. A Call To Arms 2. Riot Act 3. Funeral Hymn 4. Children Of A Worthless God 5. As It Was, As It Soon Shall Be 6. The Atrocity Exhibition 7. Iconoclasm 8. The Garden Of Bleeding 9. Bedlam 123
The CD was recorded at Sharkbite Studios in Oakland, California with producer Andy Sneap and will be released via Nuclear Blast in late October.
What must see the one who looks into the Abyss? The journey to the other side of reality - what is it like? Definitely you would never get an answer - the are no such words in human speech to describe the full vision… And for what? Feelings are the best way to reflect the other side, your demonic entity, to show your loyality to Hell. This reward is destiny of the chosen ones, and their name is… the servants of the Black Arts.
"Let Satan Speak through Our Lips" is the second album of blasphemers DARK DOMINATION which was belched from Latvian underground and ready to torment your soul! About 70 minutes of ritual Satanic initiation was recorded in the name of Him! Praise or die!
The material is prepared not for mass auditory, but for followers of Diabolic and underground Black Metal in its true form - diabolic essence impression through contact with Astral and also spreading hate toward god's creations.
Track-list: 1. Intro: Beyond the Gates of Hell 2. Hordes of the Godless 3. Under the Emperor's Wings 4. Satan's Worshipper 5. Let Satan Speak Through Our Lips 6. Against the Liar 7. Forest's Secret 8. Servants of the Black Art 9. Gloria tibi, Lucifer! 10. Isanda Teenistuses (bonus track)
The CD has 12-pages booklet and killer design which is visual entailment of featured material.
Cost: 12EUR (postal expenses are included) Distributors, ask for wholesale prices!
ARCH ENEMY will release the first single — "Revolution Begins" — off its upcoming album "Rise of the Tyrant" August 31 in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, September 3 in Greece and September 5 in Sweden and Finland.
"Revolution Begins" track listing: 01. Revolution Begins (4:11) 02. Blood on your Hands (4:40) 03. Walk in the Shadows (3:07) [QUEENSRŸCHE cover version] * 04. I Am Legend / Out For Blood (5:36] [Live 2007] *
FALCONER recently extended its deal with Metal Blade for another four albums. The group is currently writing material for its new CD, which will feature "slightly faster and with more unexpected turns," according to guitaris Stefan Weinerhall. "The lyrics will all be about Swedish medieval life and episodes. Not a concept album really but still something in that direction. What I decided early on what that it wouldn't become 'Northwind Pt. 2'. 'Northwind' is as good as it can be, therefore we'll make things a tad different this time." FALCONER's fifth studio album, "Northwind" • the group's first since the departure of singer Kristoffer Göbel and return of Mathias Blad • was released last September via Metal Blade Records.
Swedish metallers THE DUSKFALL will release their fourth CD, entitled "The Dying Wonders of the World", on October 26 via Massacre Records. The CD was recorded at Uppsala, Sweden's Dug-Out Studios (drums, vocals and the mix) by Daniel Bergstrand (IN FLAMES, DEFLESHED, DARK FUNERAL, BEHEMOTH, SOILWORK) and Promile Studios (guitars and bass) by Michael Hahne. It was mastered by Achim Köhler at Indiscreet Audio in Germany. Check out the cover artwork at this location.
"The Dying Wonders of the World" track listing: 01. Paradises into Deserts 02. The Wheel and the Blacklight 03. Deep in Your World 04. Some More Sin on My Burden 05. Shadows and Cancer 06. Bring Us Your Infected 07. The Option and The Poison 08. Sealed with a Fist 09. I've Only Got Knives for You
EYES OF EDEN, the new band featuring Waldemar Sorychta (GRIP INC., DESPAIR), has posted another song from its upcoming debut album, "Faith" (Century Media), on its ' page. Check out the track "Pictures" at this location.
Century Media Records will release "Faith" on the following dates:
Friday, Aug 17: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Benelux Monday, Aug 20: UK, France, Denmark, Norway, Rest of Europe Wednesday, Aug 22: Sweden, Finland, Hungary Tuesday, Aug 28: Spain, Portugal Friday, Sep 14: Italy
"Faith", is described in a press release as "an exciting orchestral masterpiece of gothic rock/metal. The band is not only profiting from Sorychta's outstanding producer and songwriter skills, but also his gift to discover a young talent like [singer] Franziska Huth." The CD also features a guest appearance on drums by Gas Lipstick of H.I.M. fame.
"Faith" track listing: 01. Winter Night (3:35) 02. When Gods Fall (3:37) 03. Star (3:47) 04. Pictures (4:09) 05. Dancing Fire (3:15) 06. Sleeping Minds (3:59) 07. Daylight (4:03) 08. Man In The Flame (4:21) 09. From Heaven Sent (4:16) 10. Not Human Kind (10:01)
EYES OF EDEN is: Franziska Huth - Vocals Waldemar Sorychta - Guitar Alla Fedynitch - Bass Tom Diener - Drums
SOILWORK have revealed the details of their forthcoming album. It will be entitled "Sworn to a Great Divide" and will be released on October 19 via Nuclear Blast Records.
The full tracklisting is: 01. Sworn To A Great Divide 02. Exile 03. Breeding Thorns 04. Your Beloved Scapegoat 05. The Pittsburgh Syndrome 06. I, Vermin 07. Light Discovering Darkness 08. As The Sleeper Awakes 09. Silent Bullet 10. Sick Heart River 11. 20 More Miles
APOCALYPTICA's new song "SOS", featuring a guest appearance by LACUNA COIL frontwoman Cristina Scabbia, has been posted on the APOCALYPTICA ' page. The track comes off the group's new album, "Worlds Collide", due in Germany, Austria and Switzerland on September 14 via G.U.N. Records.
SUBWAY TO SALLY, the Potsdam, Germany-based rock/metal band with folk and medieval influences, will release its new album, "Bastard", on October 26 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD was recorded at Horus studio in Hannover, Germany and Lundgaard studio in Denmark. The track listing for the effort is as follows:
01. Meine Seele Brennt 02. Puppenspieler 03. Auf Kiel 04. Umbra 05. Voodoo 06. Wehe Stunde 07. Die Trommel 08. Unentdecktes Land 09. Hohelied 10. Canticum Satanae 11. Tanz auf dem Vulkan 12. Fatum 13. In der Stille
RAGE has issued the following update revealing the title of their forthcoming album:
"At the moment, Peavy, Victor and Andrй are working with high pressure at their new album, with the working title "Carved in Stone".
"Carved in Stone" is also the title of a new song, a super hymn, which could open the live shows in future. More titles are (under reserve): Open My Grave (very heavy & dark), One Step Ahead, Long Hard Road and Without You. There are much more songs, we'll tell you more about, soon.
The music is very catchy, and compared with the last output, straight-lined. Due to Andrйs way of playing the drums, a newer wind came into. Most of the lyrics deal with critically notes to anxiously, socially developments."
ANGEL DUST have posted the following update on their official site:
"The new album will be called "VII", which is quite obvious. The seventh album will released in 2007. A exact date is not certain yet; the recordings are making very slow progress."
"VII" will feature the following tracks: 01. Before My Fall 02. Shoot The Needle 03. Marching – Stampeding 04. Alien Man 05. One More Time 06. Street Of Iron Will 07. Consumed 08. Fear No Evil
RAMMSTEIN have posted the following upadate on their official site:
"Since the rumour did alarm people that Till Lindemann would leave Rammstein after the release of the upcoming album, we are pleased to inform you that after consulting Rammstein manager Emanuel Fialik, the so-called news turns out being a fake.
Neither Till Lindemann nor another band member plans to leave Rammstein. The band is currently working on the next album and is in an excellent mood. As the greed for news is the actual doping in cycling, this 'news' is only serving those who spread the same. Though the world knows now that EnEsch has moved to Berlin, even the poor EnEsch was shocked by the outlook to have to step into Till Lindemanns footsteps. I hope he and the fans of the band will recover soon from this false report."
Goth metallers THE OLD DEAD TREE are just back from Stage One Studio, Germany, where soundboard wizard Andy Classen recently finished recording, mixing and mastering the band's latest opus "The Water Fields", due next September 17th :
The full tracklisting will be: Start the Fire Don't wake me up (those who never wear white) Dive What's done is done The Water Fields Is your Soul for Sale? A distant Light was shining Regarding Kate Rise to the Occasion Hey This is now Farewell
According to vocalist/guitarist Manuel:
"The band went further again, reaching a new stage in terms of songwriting and maturity. This album is much heavier and darker, but also more diverse and full of sheer emotion! Even the production of Andy Classen outdoes the job on our previous material."
QUEENSRŸCHE played a five-song acoustic set earlier today (Saturday, July 21) at Looney Tunes in West Babylon, New York. According to AnybodyListening.net, the setlist for the performance was as follows:
01. Sign of the Times 02. Bridge 03. The Hands 04. Until There Was You 05. Eyes of a Stranger
The event was reportedly professionaly recorded for a possible CD or DVD.
Drummer Eric Singer (KISS, ALICE COOPER) revealed during a recent interview with rock and roll comic C.C. Banana at the 21st annual NY/NJ Kiss Expo that Alice Cooper has recorded a guest appearance on "The Scarecrow", the third installment of EDGUY frontman Tobias Sammet's AVANTASIA solo project. According to Singer, Michael Schenker (ex-UFO, SCORPIONS) and Michael's brother Rudolf (SCORPIONS) will also appear on the album, which features Eric on drums, Tobias on bass, and former MASTERPLAN/ARK frontman Jorn Lande and Amanda Somerville (the American singer-songwriter and vocal coach who is better known for her collaborations with various European metal bands, including EPICA, AFTER FOREVER and EDGUY) on additional vocals. More guest appearances are expected to be announced soon.
Australian progressive metal band VANISHING POINT has posted its video for the song "Surrender" at ' . The track comes off the group's new album, "The Fourth Season", due on August 24 via Dockyard 1. The follow-up to 2005's "Embrace the Silence" was once again recorded with Endel Rivers at Palm studios in the band's hometown of Melbourne. Mastering duties were handled by legendary Mika Jussila (STRATOVARIUS, NIGHTWISH, SONATA ARCTICA) at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Finland.
"The Fourth Season" track listing: 01. Embodiment 02. Tyranny Of Distance 03. Surrender 04. Hope Among The Heartless 05. Gaia 06. I Within I 07. Behind The Open Door 08. Ashen Sky 09. One Foot In Both Worlds 10. Veil Of Deceit 11. Wake Me 12. A Day Of Difference
Finnish black metal band BLADESMITH will release its debut album, "Legion of Swords", in September through Dungeons Deep Records. The track listing for the effort is as follows:
"Legion Of Swords" track listing: 01. The Vassals Summoned 02. Dark and Iron Blood 03. Uncertain Death Triumphant 04. Bladesmith's Anvil Fire 05. The Adamantine Chains 06. Battle on Ice and Snow ' 07. Legion of Swords
The cover artwork for the "comeback" album from the legendary German progressive thrash outfit MEKONG DELTA, entitled "Lurking Fear", has been posted at this location. Due on August 24 via AFM Records, the CD will be available as a standard jewelcase as well as a double vinyl album. The limited-edition digipack will include a bonus DVD containing the band's December 21, 1991 concert in Frankfurt, Germany.
"Lurking Fear" track listing: 01. Society In Dissolution 02. Purification 03. Immortal Hate (Accepting Prayers Of Supremacy) 04. Allegro Furioso (taken from "Five Fragments For Group & Orchestra") 05. Rules Of Corruption 06. Ratters (Among The Dead) 07. Moderato (taken from "Five Fragments For Group & Orchestra") 08. Defenders Of The Faith 09. Symphony Of Agony 10. Allegro (from "Symphony Nr. 10" by Dimitri Schostakowitsch)
As previously reported, MEKONG DELTA's current lineup (photo) includes mainman/bassist Ralf Hubert alongside drummer Uli Kusch (ex-MASTERPLAN, HELLOWEEN), singer Leo Szpigiel (ANGEL DUST, CROWS, SCANNER, DUKE) and guitarist Peter Sjöberg (also known as Peter Lake from THEORY IN PRACTICE).
Former THE GATHERING singer Anneke van Giersbergen has launched a web site for her new band called AGUA DE ANNIQUE. Currently available for streaming on the site (in the "Listen" section) are two full-length tracks — "Day After Yesterday" and "Beautiful One". A "beautiful" animated music video for the song "Day After Yesterday" is also in the works.
THERION mainman Christofer Johnsson has issued the following update:
"I'm happy to announce that I've officially just prolonged the contract with Nuclear Blast Records for another five albums. Our souls now belongs to the innovative and dedicated little label from the village of Donzdorf [Germany], who through hard work and and honest dedication over the years have become the pearl of metal labels of all times. It's been 12 years since we signed with them and I look forwards to the upcoming 12 years."
Finnish cello-rockers APOCALYPTICA have set "Worlds Collide" as the title of their new album, due in Germany, Austria and Switzerland on September 14 via G.U.N. Records. The first single, "I'm Not Jesus", featuring a guest appearance by Corey Taylor (SLIPKNOT, STONE SOUR), will precede the album on August 31. Other confirmed guest musicians on the CD include Dave Lombardo (SLAYER), Tomoyasu Hotei (superstar Japanese composer, whose credits include the "Kill Bill" soundtrack), Joseph Duplantier (GOJIRA) and Cristina Scabbia (LACUNA COIL). Backing vocals for the effort were laid down by Swedish singer Mats Levén (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, THERION, KRUX, TREAT, AT VANCE).
"Worlds Collide" was produced by Jacob Hellner (RAMMSTEIN). A video for the song for the song "I'm Not Jesus" was recently filmed in in Los Angeles with director Tony Petrossian (AVENGED SEVENFOLD, RISE AGAINST, SLIPKNOT).
ARCH ENEMY vocalist Angela Gossow's official web site has been updated with several new picture galleries, including childhood photos and pictures of Angela's pre-ARCH ENEMY band ASMODINA. Check them out at ' .
ARCH ENEMY recently completed work on its new album, "Rise of the Tyrant", due on September 24 (one day later in the U.S.) via Century Media Records. The CD was recorded at Studio Fredman with producer Fredrik Nordström.
"Rise of the Tyrant" track listing: 01. Blood On Your Hands 02. The Last Enemy 03. I Will Live Again 04. In This Shallow Grave 05. Revolution Begins 06. Rise Of The Tyrant 07. The Day You Died 08. Intermezzo Liberté 09. Night Falls Fast 10. The Great Darkness 11. Vultures
CHARON/ex-POISONBLACK frontman Juha-Pekka Leppäluoto has launched a new band called HARMAJA. The group, which also features CHARON drummer Antti Karihtala, sings in Finnish and is said to be influenced by the likes of NICK CAVE & THE BAD SEEDS and MORRISSEY.
To check out samples of HARMAJA's music, visit the band's ' page.
SODOM's new album, "The Final Sign of Evil", is scheduled for release in September via SPV Records, according to the group's webmaster Toto, who is also producing the CD. The album will feature re-recordings of the material from the German thrashers' classic first EP, "In the Sign of Evil", plus no less than seven bonus tracks, all of which were originally written during the "In the Sign of Evil" era or earlier but were never officially released. As a special bonus, the album will feature return appearances by the group's original drummer Chris Dudek (a.k.a. Witchhunter) and guitarist Josef "Peppi" Dominic (a.k.a. Grave Violator), both of whom were featured on the original 1984 EP.
Hamburg, Germany-based brutal melodic death metallers DARK AGE have revealed the cover artwork for their new album, entitled "Minus Exitus". Check it out at www.metal.de. The artwork was created by Niklas Sundin from DARK TRANQUILLITY.
"Minus Exitus" is tentatively scheduled for release in September. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Cold", "Black September" and "Minus Exitus". A trailer for the album can be viewed ' . According to an online post by the band's keyboardist Martin Reichert, the CD's first pressing will likely include a limited-edition DVD.
DARK AGE's first DVD, "Live, So Far...", was released last year via Remedy Records.
DARK AGE's most recent studio CD, "Dark Age" (2003), featured a guest appearance by TIAMAT frontman Johan Edlund on two songs.
Toy's Factory in Japan will release NILE's new album, "Ithyphallic", on August 22 with two exclusive bonus tracks: instrumental versions of "As He Creates So He Destroys" and "Papyrus Containing The Spell To Preserve It's Possessor Against Attacks From He Who Is In The Water".
According to MelodicRock.com, guitarist Nikolo Kotzev (of BRAZEN ABBOT and NOSTRADAMUS fame) has announced the launch of the official homepage of his new mega-project called DRACONIA. This conceptual work will be recorded with eight lead singers, rock band and a symphonic orchestra. Kotzev is the author of the story, the music and the orchestra arrangements. Besides playing the guitars, he will produce the entire recording. On the web site you can learn everything about the project, read the story, listen to exclusive excerpts of the working demos, discuss issues related to the project and even suggest singers for each role. The project is underway and is expected to be completed sometime next year.
The artwork and tracklisting for the upcoming album from Norway's classical/progressive metal supergroup WINDS, titled "Prominence and Demise" (out September 4, 2007 on The End Records), has been revealed.
The CD artwork and layout was created by renowned cover artist Travis Smith (OPETH, AMORPHIS, DEVIN TOWNSEND), who has collaborated with WINDS on all of their artwork since their first full-length album.
"Prominence and Demise" track listing: 01. Universal Creation Array 02. Distorted Dimensions 03. The Grand Design 04. When the Dream of Paradise Died 05. Fall and Rise 06. The Darkest Path 07. Convictions and Contradictions 08. Where the Cold Winds Blow 09. The Last Line
LUCYFIRE, the side project of TIAMAT mastermind Johan Edlund, earlier in the year completed work on a new demo with producer and TIAMAT drummer Lars Sköld. According to Edlund,"we have plenty of songs," but the CD that wassent out to prospective labels contained the following four cuts:
01. Thunder & Lightning 02. All the Children Sing 03. Codeine 04. Black Gold
A demo version of "All the Children Sing" has been posted online at ' .
The organizers of the ProgPower USA VIII festival, which is scheduled for October 5-6 at Atlanta's Center Stage, have announced the details of a special "mystery" show, to be held Wednesday night (October 3) in Vinyl's (a.k.a. the Vendor's Room) with karaoke to follow afterwards.
Commented promoter Glenn Harveston: "I'm very proud to announce that for the first time ever in his illustrious career, Jon Oliva [SAVATAGE, JON OLIVA'S PAIN] will take the stage and perform an intimate one-man acoustic show. In addition to performing his biggest hits and favorite songs, the Mountain King will be telling the history behind each song along with sharing stories from the road. If you have seen any of the VH1 'Storytellers' episodes, you know just how special and unique this show is going to be."
All 200 tickets for the show reportedly sold out within five minutes of the announcement.
Check out the complete ProgPower USA VIII lineup at this location.
Norwegian metallers NOCTURNAL BREED have finalized the track listing for their new album "Fields of Rot", due on July 3 via Agonia Records. The cover art for "Fields of Rot" was created specifically for this release by Norwegian artist Kjetil Nystuen, who is an art director in the gaming industry. The PS2 first-person shooter game Killzone is among his credits. Other songtitles set to appear on the album include "Iron Bitch" and "Invasion of the Bodythrashers".
"Fields of Rot" final track listing: 01. Wicked, Vicious & Violent (4:11) 02. Fields of Rot (2:53) 03. Too Damned To Conquer (2:50) 04. Manskinner (3:01) 05. In Sickness and in Hell (4:17) 06. Invasion of the Body-Thrashers (3:26) 07. Iron Bitch (3:14) 08. Code of Conduct (2:19) 09. The Dead (3:14) 10. Scything Harrow (3:05)
NOCTURNAL BREED recently posted two more songs from "Fields of Rot" on the band's ' page.
An Italian DARK TRANQUILLITY fan, Ercorea, has uploaded a ten-minute piano medley featuring themes from various songs of the "The Mind's I" album. Check it out ' .
Progressive metal masters SIEGES EVEN have revealed the cover artwork fortheir new album, entitled "Paramount", due in September via Inside Out Music. The photo was taken by British artist David J. Nightingale, while Thomas Ewerhard was responsible for the actual cover design.
"Paramount" track listing (not final sequence): 01. When Alpha And Omega Collide 02. Bridge To The Divine 03. Paramount 04. Mounting Castles in The Blood Red Sky (instrumental) 05. Where Our Shadows Sleep 06. Leftovers 07. Iconic 08. Tidal 09. A Wallflower On The Day Of Saint Juliana 10. A Dream In Monochrome 11. Duende
SIEGES EVEN's current lineup consists of Arno Menses (vocals), Oliver Holzwarth (bass), Markus Steffen (guitars) and Alex Holzwarth (drums, RHAPSODY).
Finnish/Swedish symphonic metal band NIGHTWISH has set "Dark Passion Play" as the title of its new album, due on September 28 via Nuclear Blast Records (most of Europe), September 26 via Spinefarm Records/Universal (Finland) and September 28 via Roadrunner Records (USA). The track listing for the effort is as follows:
01. The Poet And The Pendulum 02. Bye Bye Beautiful 03. Amaranth 04. Cadence Of Her Last Breath 05. Master Passion Greed 06. Eva 07. Sahara 08. Whoever Brings The Night 09. For The Heart I Once Had 10. The Islander 11. Last Of The Wilds 12. 7 Days To The Wolves 13. Meadows Of Heaven
A single, "Amaranth", will precede the album on August 24 (Nuclear Blast) and August 22 (Spinefarm/Universal). It will be available in several different versions, the details of which will be announced later.
Dutch female-fronted symphonic metal band EPICA has revealed the cover artwork for its new album, "The Divine Conspiracy", due in Europe on September 10 via Nuclear Blast Records (September 7 in Germany). Check it out at this location.
"The Divine Conspiracy", which was mixed by Sascha Paeth, features a session appearance by GOD DETHRONED drummer Ariën van Weesenbeek. EPICA has yet to name a full-time drummer following the departure of Jeroen Simons in 2006.
"The Divine Conspiracy" final track listing: 01. Indigo - Prologue 02. The Obsessive Devotion 03. Menace of Vanity 04. Chasing the Dragon 05. Never Enough 06. La‘petach Chatat Rovetz - The Final Embrace 07. Death of a Dream - The Embrace that Smothers Part VII 08. Living a Lie - The Embrace that Smothers Part VIII 09. Fools of Damnation - The Embrace that Smothers Part IX 10. Beyond Belief 11. Safeguard to Paradise 12. Sancta Terra 13. The Divine Conspiracy
According to a posting on the band's web site, "The Divine Conspiracy" "will be EPICA's first full length concept album. This concept deals with the theory that, as a test, God created all kinds of different religions and released those upon humanity to see if they would be able to find the true nature of them, realizing that in all religions it is actually the same. But there's more to it; it also concludes the 'Embrace That Smothers' concept that could already be found on 'The Phantom Agony'"
SAVAGE CIRCUS, the German/Swedish band featuring former BLIND GUARDIAN drummer Thomen Stauch and PERSUADER members Jens Karlsson (vocals, guitar) and Emil Norberg (lead guitar), has commenced the songwriting process for its second album, tentatively due in October via Dockyard 1.
HELLOWEEN drummer Dani Löble has re-entered singer Andi Deris' Mi Sueno Studios in Tenerife, Spain to resume the recording sessions for the band's new album with longtime producer Charlie Bauerfeind (BLIND GUARDIAN, SAXON). Tentatively titled "Gambling with the Devil", HELLOWEEN's 12th studio LP is scheduled for release on Halloween (October 31). A world tour in support of the CD will start mid-November in Europe, to be followed by visits to Southeast Asia, North and South America in the first half of 2008.
Frontiers Records is pleased to announce all details for the release of DAVID READMAN’s self titled debut album on August 31st 2007 !
Best known as singer for PINK CREAM 69, David also appeared on album from Adagio and from studio projects such as Missa Mercuria and on the more recent Andersen / Laine / Readman cd.
After David left the French Power Metal outfit Adagio in 2005, he started to gather material for a solo album which has always been his ultimate dream. “I did a lot myself from writing the songs, to recording organizing the whole thing” says David, “Dennis Ward (David’s bandmate in PC69) recorded the drums over 2 sessions and also mixed the record. If I was to thank something it would be the Internet, strange I know but without it would have taken even longer. And I wouldn't have met all the great people who played on the record, especially Paul Logue (of Eden’s Course) who played bass and wrote 2 songs with me”.
David has worked hard on the songwriting. He explains: “There are a few songs that wouldn't have made it on a PC69 cd because of style, with this record I was able to experiment a little. When you work this way it becomes your baby, you’re making all the decisions. It’s not always easy to keep a song interesting from the start to the finish. So that was a lot of work, but that’s what I wanted”
Recording started already during 2006, but David needed a long break (for the recording of PC 69’s latest opus “In10sity”), so that resumed the work in February 2007 and finally delivered the album in the spring time.
“I am very happy with the record, it was a big deal for me a real learning-curve. I'm also interested to hear what the people have to say about it, I’m very inpatient”, concludes the Burnley-born british singer.
The line-up appearing on “David Readman” includes Paul Logue (Eden’s Curse) on bass, Dirk Bruinenberg (Elegy) and Chris Schmidt on drums, Eric Ragno (ex Takara) and Günter Werno (Vandenplas) on keyboards and Alex Beyrodt (Silent Force), Gerald Sänger, Tommy Denander and bandmate Uwe Reitenauer on guitars. David also plays guitars and keyboards.
Production duties are handled by Dennis Ward.
"David Readman" track-listing: 01. Without You ' 02. Evil Combination 03. Take These Tears ' 04. Don't Let It Slip Away ' 05. No Peace For The Wicked 06. Long Way To Heaven ' 07. Wild In The City 08. Gentle Touch 09. Prisoner Of Shame 10. New Messiah 11. Over The Ocean 12. Love In Vain 13. Don't Let It Slip Away* Don't Let It Slip Away (bonus multimedia video track which can be already watched on the Frontiers Records my space page: ' )
It's safe to say that fans of Pink Cream 69 and David Readman will not be disappointed with this record, who sets the style in Melodic Hard Rock, with soaring hooklines and in-your face guitars.
Don’t miss “David Readman” in all fine shops on August 31st 2007 on Frontiers Records with a release in Japan scheduled on King Records.
Dutch rock act THE GATHERING has launched a vocalist search following the recent departure of Anneke van Giersbergen. Interested male and female vocalists are invited to send a short bio and one or two MP3s to audition@gathering.nl.
Anneke van Giersbergen has announced the formation of a brand new band called AGUA DE ANNIQUE. The group will release an album called "Air" in the fall of 2007.
Anneke van Giersbergen's final appearance with THE GATHERING will take place on August 4 at the Ankkarock festival in Finland.
The cover artwork for AMORPHIS's upcoming album, "Silent Waters", has been posted online at this location. The CD was recorded at Sonic Pump studios in Helsinki, Finland. Mixing duties were handled by Mikko Karmila (NIGHTWISH, STRATOVARIUS) at Finnvox studios.
"Silent Waters" track listing: 01. Weaving The Incantation 02. A Servant 03. Silent Waters 04. Towards And Against 05. I Of Crimson Blood 06. Her Alone 07. Enigma 08. Shaman 09. The White Swan 10. Black River 11. Sign (bonus track on digipak)
The album will be released on August 29 (Finland)/August 31 (other countries).
California-based metallers AGENT STEEL have posted the cover artwork for their new album, "Alienigma", at this location (artwork by Dimitri Patelis).
Due in September via Mascot Records, "Alienigma" will feature the following track listing:
01. Fashioned From Dust 02. Wash The Planet Clean 03. Hail To The Chief 04. Wormwod 05. Liberty Lying Bleeding 06. Hybridized 07. Tiamats Fall 08. WPD 09. Lamb To The Slaughter 10. Extinct
Italian folk/power metal band ELVENKING will release their new album, "The Scythe", in Europe on September 14 via AFM Records. The CD was mixed at Sonic Pump Studios in Helsinki, Finland. The mastering took place on April 10 at Finnvox Studios with Mika Jussila and Nino Laurenne.
"The Scythe" track listing: 01. The Scythe 02. Lost Hill of Memories 03. Infection 04. Poison Tears 05. A Riddle of Stars 06. Romance & Wrath 07. The Divided Heart 08. Horns Ablaze (digipack bonus track) 09. Totentanz 10. Death and the Suffering 11. Dominhate
FATES WARNING's classic 1988 album "No Exit" will be re-released in September via Metal Blade Records. The reissue will contain a remastered version of the original album plus the following bonus material:
Bonus audio tracks: * "Quietus" demo (singer Ray Alder's audition tape) * "The Ivory Gate of Dreams" outtake 1 (rehearsal recording) * "The Ivory Gate of Dreams" outtake 2 (rehearsal recording)
Bonus DVD: * Live and behind-the-scenes footage from "No Exit" tour (approx. one hour) * "Silent Cries" video * "Anarchy Divine" video * "Valley of the Dolls" live in Philadelphia 1988
Check out a teaser live video of "Silent Cries", taken from the upcoming "No Exit" bonus DVD, at YouTube.
Nearly ten years since X JAPAN's New Year's "farewell" concert and nine years after the death of the band's influential lead guitarist Hideto "Hide" Matsumoto, X JAPAN has officially reformed and is planning a new tour and single, tentatively due before the end of 2007.
According to an article in the Japanese newspaper Sponichi, X JAPAN founder Yoshiki summoned former vocalist Toshi to Los Angeles in November 2006 to work on a song that was written as a tribute to late guitarist Hide, entitled "Without You" (originally released instrumentally on Yoshiki's first album). After an emotional recording session, the two felt that "the puzzle pieces just fit," and decided to officially reunite the band.
Yoshiki is said to be in talks with guitarist Pata and bassist Heath regarding the reunion, with hopes to feature the band lineup circa the group's final performance. While nothing has been set in stone, the tentative touring lineup is expected to include Yoshiki, Toshi, Pata, Heath, and roughly 10 guest guitarists who will perform Hide's parts during various songs in the set.
Current information indicates that X JAPAN's tour will begin near Yoshiki's home of Los Angeles, with the Toshi-sung single release of "Without You" due sometime this year.
Regarding the reunion, Yoshiki stated, "After Hide's death most fans were split between two extreme opinions, either 'you reunite and I'll kill you' or 'if you don't reunite I'll die.' I had trouble making the decision and for a while I wasn't able to move forward. This reunion is actually a first for me as well."
Swedish singer Mats Levén (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, THERION, KRUX, TREAT, AT VANCE) has just finished laying down backing vocals for the new APOCALYPTICA album with producer Jacob Hellner (RAMMSTEIN).
Corey Taylor (SLIPKNOT, STONE SOUR), Dave Lombardo (SLAYER), Tomoyasu Hotei (superstar Japanese composer, whose credits include the "Kill Bill" soundtrack), Joseph Duplantier (GOJIRA) and Cristina Scabbia (LACUNA COIL) are among the confirmed musicians who have recorded guest appearances on the upcoming APOCALYPTICA CD, tentatively due in September.
Finnish goth metallers H.I.M. have reportedly set September 4 as the new release date for their follow-up to 2005's "Dark Light", entitled "Venus Doom". The band's sixth studio CD was recorded at the Finnvox facility in Helsinki with producer Tim Palmer and was mixed in California.
H.I.M. frontman Ville Valo recently told MTV.com that "Venus Doom" is "going to be a lot heavier than anything we've done before — that's the whole idea. It's like we're mixing MY BLOODY VALENTINE's 'Loveless' with METALLICA's 'Master of Puppets'. ... There won't be as much ear candy on this one. There are a lot of riffs, and it's more guitar-oriented than keyboard-driven. Really, we just wanted to rock our own socks off.
"We wanted to make a really rockin' album — one that would explode your speakers," he added. "But we also wanted to maintain the melancholy aspects of love and loss in the lyrics and then have the really sweet vocals amidst this storm of guitars.
"Lyrically, it's about me losing a relationship and then actually regaining it, and losing my sanity and regaining it," Valo continued. "As you grow up, life gets more and more complex, even though when you're a kid you think things are going to get easier. It's like a f---ing puzzle that just keeps on having more and more pieces to it. It's very personal, this album. It's like me getting rid of my demons and putting the pain in the music. It's cathartic, and it's about cleansing yourself and trying to have the courage to take that one step further."
Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Dead Lovers Lane" ' , "The Kiss of Dawn", "Love in Cold Blood" and "Passion's Killing Floor".
Garden Of Exile Records will release "Hope", the latest album by Finnish doomsters SWALLOW THE SUN, as a double LP. The vinyl release will contain an AMORPHIS cover as a bonus track, featuring a guest appearance by AMORPHIS vocalist Tomi Joutsen. Says the label: "You can expect some nice-colored heavyweight vinyl in a deluxe gatefold cover."
"Drakkars In The Mist" track-listing:: 1. Before Battle I Embrace 2. Hoplites Awaiting Command 3. Hugin & Munin 4. Grimnismol (Ballad Of Grimnir) 5. Hogtyd 6. Sworn To The Raven 7. Great God Pan 8. Drakkars In The Mist 9. Midguard Farewell 10. De Tause Fjell 11. If I Should Fall 12. When Long Ships Arrive 13. On Wings Divine 14. Thunders Of War Bonus Tracks: 15. The Bane Of Giants 16. Kingdom Of The Shades 17. The Ridding Of The Queen Boudiccea
Norwegian progressive metal band CIRCUS MAXIMUS has uploaded the cover artwork and audio sample from its upcoming sophomore album, "Isolate", due in Europe in August and a short time later in North America. The CD's lyrical concept deals with "how much you can lose until you go completely mad, and how much have lost when insanity finally embraces you," the group recently said. "It's really up to the listener (and reader ...) to intepret the story themselves, because it can be understood in different ways and we don't want to spoil the surprise."
"Isolate" track listing: 01. A Darkened Mind 02. Abyss 03. Wither ' 04. Sane No More 05. Arrival Of Love 06. Zero 07. Mouth Of Madness 08. From Childhood's Hour 09. Ultimate Sacrifice
We are proud to announce the first in Eastern Europe THE FLAMING ARTS FESTIVAL TOUR which will take place in biggest towns of Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. First confirmed bands for festival are VADER, ROTTING CHRIST, KRISIUN, INCANTATION and young UK thrash band AMENTI. More bands will be announced soon.
Finnish/Swedish symphonic metal band NIGHTWISH has released three more samples from its forthcoming album, due in September. In addition to first single, "Eva", you can now check out short clips of the songs "7 Days to the Wolves", "Master Passion Greed" and "Amaranth": "7 Days to the Wolves": ' "Master Passion Greed": ' "Amaranth": ' "Eva": '
Mnemosyne Productions has announced a brand new musical collaboration between EMPEROR frontman Ihsahn, Starofash (a.k.a. Ihsahn's wife Heidi S. Tveitan, a.k.a. Ihriel) and one of Norway's most well known folk musicians, Knut Buen. The project is called HARDINGROCK and the album is titled "Grimen".
According to a press release, "Grimen" presents folk tunes on the Norwegian national instrument, harding fiddle, text and melodies based on Norwegian mythical tradition, arranged and recomposed in modern form with influences from heavy metal and classical inspired electronica. It is said to be an experimental project where folk tunes are thematically broken down and expressed in a new rhythmic and harmonic form with guitars, piano, keyboards, percussion, recitation and song.
This album is set for release on June 11 via Nyrenning Forlag, and is distributed by Musikkoperatørene AS.
For more information, including audio samples, go to this location.
Дебютный альбом RIDE THE SKY "New Protection" выйдет 17 августа в Европе на Nuclear Blast. В Японии релиз состоится 21 июля. Группа является проектом барабанщика Uli Kusch (ex-HELLOWEEN, MASTERPLAN), кроме него участвуют – вокалист Bjørn Jansson (ex-TEARS OF ANGER/BEYOND TWILIGHT), басист Mathias Granås (XSAVIOR) и клавишник Kaspar Dahlqvist (DIONYSUS, STORMWIND). Альбом записывался и микшировался Benny Jansson в студии Zinkens Studio (Stockholm, Sweden ). Мастерингом занимался Christofer Stannow в Cosmos Mastering.
RIDE THE SKY, the new band featuring ex-HELLOWEEN drummer and MASTERPLAN founder Uli Kusch alongside ex-TEARS OF ANGER/BEYOND TWILIGHT singer Bjørn Jansson, guitarist Benny Jansson, bassist Mathias Granås (XSAVIOR) and keyboardist Kaspar Dahlqvist (DIONYSUS, STORMWIND), will release its debut album, "New Protection", in Europe on August 17 via Nuclear Blast. The CD will arrive in Japan on July 21.
"New Protection" (artwork) was recorded and mixed by Benny Jansson at Zinkens Studio in Stockholm, Sweden and was mastered by Christofer Stannow at Cosmos Mastering. The track listing is as follows:
01. New Protection 02. A Smile From Heaven's Eye 03. Silent War 04. The Prince Of Darkness 05. Break The Chain 06. Corroded Dreams 07. The End Of Days 08. Far Beyond The Stars 09. Black Cloud 10. Endless 11. Heaven Only Knows 12. A Crack In The Wall 13. Make The Spirit Burn (limited edition bonus track) 14. Trail Of Flame (bonus track for Japan)
Check out audio samples at www.myspace.com/ridetheskytheband.
Swedish metallers ENTOMBED have finalized the track listing for their new album, "Serpent Saints - The Ten Amendments", due on June 25 through Threeman Recordings via a special arrangement with Candlelight Records. Check out the cover artwork at this location. The 10-song effort marks the group's first release with drummer Olle Dahlstedt (ALPHA SAFARI, ex-MISERY LOVES CO.), who replaced Peter Stjärnvind in 2006. Mastering duties were handled by Soren Elofsson at Cosmos Mastering in Stockholm, Sweden.
"Serpent Saints - The Ten Amendments" track listing: 01. Serpent Saints 02. Masters of Death 03. Amok 04. Thy Kingdom Koma 05. When in Sodom 06. In The Blood 07. Ministry 08. The Dead, The Dying and The Dying To Be Dead 09. Warfare, Plague, Famine, Death 10. Love Song For Lucifer
The cover artwork for the new NILE album, entitled "Ithyphallic", has been posted online at this location. Due in Germany on July 20 via Nuclear Blast Records (July 23 in the rest of Europe), the CD was recorded at Sound Lab Studios in Columbia, South Carolina with producer Neil Kernon (NEVERMORE, CANNIBAL CORPSE, DEICIDE) and engineer Bob Moore.
"Ithyphallic" track listing: 01. What Can Be Safely Written 02. As He Creates So He Destroys 03. Ithyphallic 04. Papyrus Containing The Spell To Preserve Its Possessor… 05. Eat Of The Dead 06. Laying Fire Upon Apep 07. The Essential Salts 08. The Infinity Of Stone 09. The Language Of The Shadows 10. Even The Gods Must Die
The limited vinyl version of the "Home" album by the Dutch rock band THE GATHERING is now available for purchase online at The End Records' mailorder, ' . A beautiful gatefold 2xLP vinyl edition, the album is available on black vinyl (limited to 300 copies) and clear vinyl (limited to 200 copies).
Swedish multi-instrumentalist Snowy Shaw (THERION, DREAM EVIL, KING DIAMOND, MERCYFUL FATE, MEMENTO MORI, NOTRE DAME) is currently recording session drums for the debut album of an as-yet-unnamed Gothenburg-based project. According to a posting on Snowy's web site, "style-wise is very much in the vein of CANDLEMASS, MEMENTO MORI, KING DIAMOND and NOTRE DAME. Last autumn Snowy did lead and backing vocals for several tracks on the album. The CD, titled "Opera Diabolicus", will be mixed in June by KING DIAMOND guitarist Andy La Rocque at Andy's Los Angered Recordings.
As previously reported, Snowy Shaw has been hired to handle the artwork, illustrations and photography for the upcoming releases by Swedish sleaze rockers HARDCORE SUPERSTAR.
Polish extreme metallers BEHEMOTH have revelaed the track listing and artwork for their new album, "The Apostasy", due on July 17 via Century Media Records. The group's most ambitious and epic offering yet, it was recorded in the band's hometown of Gdansk with the group's mainman Nergal and longtime sound engineer Malta in the producers' chairs. The effort was mixed with the acclaimed Daniel Bergstrand (IN FLAMES, MESHUGGAH, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD) at Dug-Out Studios in Sweden and mastered by Bjorn Engelmann (RAMMSTEIN, SAMAEL).
"The Apostasy" track listing: 01. Rome 64 C.E 02. Slaying The Prophets Ov Isa 03. Prometherion 04. At The Left Hand Ov God 05. Kriegsphilosophie 06. Be Without Fear 07. Arcane Hereticae 08. Libertheme 09. Inner Sanctum 10. Pazuzu 11. Christgrinding Avenue
Finnish metallers NORTHER will enter Astia Studios in August/September to with producer Anssi Kippo to record their new album, tentatively due in early 2008.
Brazilian singer Renato Tribuzy has recorded a guest appearance on the "Soul Spell" metal opera project. The CD, which also features some of the best musicians on the Brazilian heavy metal scene — including Edu Falaschi (ANGRA), Leandro Caçoilo, Christian Passos, Mario Linhares, Nando Fernades, Iuri Sanson and Bruno Maia — is being produced by Tito Falaschi, Edu Falaschi's brother. Renato sang the part of Aquiles in the song called "Troy". He commented, "I really enjoyed being a part of this project. When I first heard the albums tracks I was surpised by the fantastic quality of the production, songs and musicians."
THERION mainman Christofer Johnsson has posted the following message on the band's web site:
"It's not completely finished with all details yet, but as one of the promoters seems to have published the info already, we can reveal that in December we will celebrate 20 years of THERION by making a tour where we will:
* Perform the entire 'Theli' album * Perform 'Adulruna Rediviva' and 'Wisdom of the Cage' from 'Gothic Kabbalah' * Make a fan-chosen 'best-of' set 'Vovin' – 'Lemuria/Sirius B' for the rest of the evening * Invite several special guests * Make a stage show that will blow everyone away! * 16 shows are planned.
"SIRENIA is confirmed to go with us (yes, we know what you guys want!). A second band you will also appreciate will be confirmed very soon. Reprinted 'Theli' merchandise is also gonna be available for the shows.
"There's more to it, but it's too early to reveal now. Stay tuned."
Metal Blade will release the first ever BRAINSTORM DVD "Honey From The Bґs (beasting around the bush)" on the 29th of June (Germany/Austria/Switzerland/Italy) / 2nd of July (rest of Europe). The boxset will be released in Digipack format with special metal effect!
The dvd will contain the following: DVD 1: Part I: Live-Shows 1. Live In Budapest 2005, Liquid Monster Tour, Location: Budapest, Petφfi Hall, HUN Продолжительность: 1ч27м15с, 2. Live At Wacken Open Air 2004, Soul Temptation Tour, Location: WOA, Wacken, Main Stage left, GER Продолжительность: 49м39с
DVD 2: 1. Live In Atlanta, Soul Temptation Tour, Location: Prog Power Festival, Atlanta, USA Продолжительность: 1ч03м02с Part II: Live-Clip-Mix 2. Live at Sziget Festival 2006, 4 Songs Location: Sziget Festival, Hammer World Stage, Budapest, HUN Продолжительность: 23м43м 3. Live In Greece 2000, 2 Songs Location(s): Athens, AN Club, Thessaloniki, Hydrogios Club, GRE Продолжительность: 8м18с 4. Live at Bang Your Head Festival 2003, 1 Song Location: BYH Festival, Balingen, GER Продолжительность: 05м22с 5. Live At Rock Hard Open Air, 6 Songs Location: RH Open Air, Amphitheater Gelsenkirchen, GER Продолжительность: 30м01с Part III: History Part 6. Brainstorm Bandhistory 1987 - 2007 Продолжительность: 22м36с Part IV: Studio Clip Mix 7. Brainstorm promotional video-clips, 3 Songs Продолжительность: 11м11с Общее время звучания: 5ч01м07с
As previously reported, eight of BLIND GUARDIAN's albums will be re-released in June to celebrate the band's 20th anniversary. The LPs due to be reissued are as follows:
* Battalions of Fear (1988) * Follow the Blind (1989) * Tales from the Twilight World (1990) * Somewhere Far Beyond (1992) * Tokyo Tales (1993) * Imaginations from the Other Side (1995) * The Forgotten Tales (1996) * Nightfall in Middle-Earth (1998)
A brand new KING DIAMOND song, entitled "Never Ending Hill", is available for free download ' . The track comes off the group's long-awaited new album, "Give Me Your Soul ... Please", which will be released in North America on June 26 via Metal Blade Records. Massacre Records will issue the album in Germany on June 29. The cover artwork has been posted online ' .
Polish black/death metal band DARZAMAT will release its first-ever live DVD, entitled "Live Profanity (Visiting the Graves of Heretics)", in Europe on June 25 via Metal Mind Productions. The disc was recorded at the 21st edition of the Metalmania Festival, which took place on March 24 in Katowice, Poland, and will contain material comprised mostly of songs from the band's latest album, "Transkarpatia". Also included will be the group's surprise performance of the song "Diabelski Dom" by the cult Polish metal band KAT, featuring a guest appearance by KAT leader Roman Kostrzewski. The DVD will also includes additional footage from the Winternachtstraum Festival, which took place in February 2007 in Arnsberg, Germany, two unreleased tracks, video clips, and an interview with Flauros and Nera.
"Live Profanity (Visiting the Graves of Heretics)" will be released in the U.S. on July 31.
The cover artwork of NIGHTWISH's new single, entitled "Eva", has been posted online ' . Due on May 30, "Eva" will be an Internet-only single release, all profits from which shall be donated to charity. In Finland, the single will be available exclusively from NetAnttila. The identity of the group's new singer will be revealed simultaneously in a press statement and on the band's web site, www.nightwish.com, on the same day. A radio promo of the Internet single will also ship on May 30.
Reactivated Dutch metallers GOREFEST will release their new album, "Rise to Ruin", in the U.S. on August 28 via Nuclear Blast Records (August 3 in Europe). The CD was mixed by Danish producer Tue Madsen at his Antfarm studios in Århus, Denmark. "He managed to make everything sound even heavier than we'd imagined," guitarist Frank Harthoorn previously said. Cover artwork will be designed by British artist Rob "Mid" Middleton.
"Rise to Ruin" track listing: 01. Revolt 02. Rise To Ruin 03. The War On Stupidity 04. A Question Of Terror 05. Babylon's Whores 06. Speak When Spoken To 07. A Grim Charade 08. Murder Brigade 09. The End Of It All
The cover artwork for AMORPHIS's new single, "Silent Waters", has been posted online at this location. Due on June 27 via Nuclear Blast Records, the single is currently available for pre-order from the ' .
"Silent Waters" is the title track of AMORPHIS' upcoming album, which is scheduled for release on August 29 (Finland)/August 31 (other countries). Like its predecessor "Eclipse", the new CD will be thematically based on an episode from Finland's national epic, the "Kalevala".
Swedish vocalist Mats Levén (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, THERION, KRUX, TREAT, AT VANCE) has commented on his decision to leave THERION prior to the band's appearance at this year's Wacken Open Air festival in early August. His replacement in the group will be Thomas Vikström, who is best known to metal fans as the voice behind CANDLEMASS' "Chapter VI" album (1992).
Said Levén: "Yep, now it's official that I won't play anymore with THERION after Hellfest in June.
"The reason is simply that since we started to use four lead vocalists on tour, I found myself doing more backing vocals and guitar playing etc. than actual lead vocals. In the beginning I tried to tell myself that I would get used to it, but I didn't really...
"I gave all I had during the few numbers I sang lead and it was especially great to feel the fans' response during 'Son of the Staves of Time' (that the THERION guys were kind enough to let me write on 'Gothic Kabbalah'). Still, when I got off stage — something just didn't feel right. It felt too much like a job, and that's not a good sign.
"I will now focus on my own projects including the S&M album [collaboration with drummer/songwriter Snowy Shaw (THERION, KING DIAMOND, MERCYFUL FATE, MEMENTO MORI, NOTRE DAME)].
His replacement in the group will be Thomas Vikström, who is best known to metal fans as the voice behind CANDLEMASS "Chapter VI" album (1992).
German power metallers PARAGON have announced the addition of bassist Dirk Seifert to the group's ranks. According to a press release, Dirk is "a longtime acquaintance of the band; [he] was in a band with Martin [Christian, guitar] back in the early '90s and has worked on the pre-production of "Law of the Blade", "Dark Legacy" and "Revenge". He is familiar with the material and knows the band for a long time. We are sure he will be an reinforcement as he is a multitasker who can play bass, drums and guitar. We are busy rehearsing for the July concerts and are looking forward to presenting a new lineup and new material from the forthcoming CD "Forgotten Prophecies"."
PARAGON recently revealed the track listing and artwork for their new album, "Forgotten Prophecies", due in June. The artwork was created by Dirk Illing, who also worked on the band's "The Law of the Blade" and "The Dark Legacy" CDs.
"Forgotten Prophecies" track listing: 01. Hammer of the Gods 02. Arise 03. Face of Death 04. Halls of Doom 05. Revelations (instrumental) 06. Forgotten Prophecies 07. Agony 08. Souleaters 09. Gangland 10. Wargods 11. Deny the Cross (OVERKILL cover)
A limited edition (artwork) will be released as well, featuring a bonus DVD with live footage recorded at the Metal Bash Open Air 2005 and Metal Bash Road Kill Tour in Hamburg (Markthalle) in 2005. The track listing for the bonus DVD is as follows:
Metal Bash Open Air 2005: 01. Legacy 02. Traitor 03. Impaler 04. Revenge 05. Across the Wastelands 06. Palace of Sin 07. Armies of the Tyrant 08. Thunderstorm
Hamburg (2005): 09. Deathsquad 10. Beyond the Veil
PARAGON parted ways with bassist Jan Bünning due to "musical differences."
A track called "Dirty Wings" (featuring EDGUY frontman Tobias Sammet), taken from the upcoming compilation CD to celebrate Nuclear Blast Records' 20th anniversary, entitled "Into the Light", has been posted online ' .
"Into the Light" features 10 songs composed, recorded and produced by RAGE guitarist Victor Smolski, with guest appearances by various metal artists that are part of the Nuclear Blast history, including a track that was recorded and performed by Victor's own band.
"Into the Light" will be released as double-CD, featuring a bonus disc with classics, rare tracks and brand new songs. Also, watch out for "Into the Light"'s dark twin "Out of the Dark", coming in the second half of 2007.
"Into the Light" track listing:
CD: 01. Dirty Wings (feat. Tobias Sammet) 02. Terrified (feat. Peter Peavy Wagner) 03. Ruling The World (feat. Tony Kakko) 04. Death Is Alive (feat. Mats Leven) 05. Bloodsucker (feat. Marcel Schmier Schirmer) 06. Slaves To The Desert (feat. Hansi Kürsch) 07. A Perfect Day (feat. Andi Deris) 08. Eternally (feat. Oddleif Stensland) 09. Inner Sanctuary (feat. Marco Hietala) 10. In The Picture (feat. Tarja Turunen)
Bonus CD: 01. HAMMERFALL - Hearts on Fire 02. HELLOWEEN - The Madness Of The Crowds (Japan-Bonus 'Dark Ride' album) * 03. GOTTHARD - El Traidor (Anytime, Anywhere Spanish version) * 04. AFTER FOREVER - Sweet Enclosure * 05. RIDE THE SKY - New Protection (new band of Uli Kusch) * 06. THUNDERSTONE - Forevermore 07. THRESHOLD - Slipstream 08. AMORPHIS - The Smoke 09. CANDLEMASS - Devil Seed (brandnew song) * 10. SIRENIA - The Other Side
* new song or rare bonus track.
Lineup: Victor Smolski - Songwriting, Guitars, Bass, Keyboards Andre Hilgers, Volker Schultz - Drums Jan-Michael Keller - Bass Andreas Dirksmeier - Keyboards Mario LeMole, Jen Majura - Backing Vocals
German black/death/gothic metallers AGATHODAIMON have announced the addition of Jonas Iscariot (vocals) and Jan Jansohn (guitar) to the group's ranks. "After a bunch of rehearsals with the new guys, we feel that we now have the strongest lineup ever and can't wait to hit the stage again!" the band said in a statement.
AGATHODAIMON 2007 is: Felix Ü. Walzer (keys) Till Ottinger (bass) Jonas Iscariot (vocals) Matthias Rodig (drums) Sathonys (guitars) Jan Jansohn (guitars)
Check out a photo of the new lineup at this location.
AGATHODAIMON last year announced the addition of bassist Till Ottinger (ex-MISANTHROPIC) to the group's ranks.
AGATHODAIMON's last album, "Serpent's Embrace", was released in 2004 via Nuclear Blast Records.
Germany's AT VANCE will release its new album, "VII", on June 29 via AFM Records. The group's seventh effort marks the debut of new singer Rick Altzi and features the band's "very own interpretation on neo-classical power metal that crosses elegantly with the true spirit of '80s hard rock," according to a press release.
"VII" track listing: 01. Breaking The Night 02. Shiver 03. Cold As Ice 04. Victory 05. Friendly Fire 06. Golden Leaves 07. Answer Me 08. Shine 09. Truth 10. Lost In Your Love
TESTAMENT's previously announced Russian dates, which were scheduled to take place in early July, have been postponed. The new dates have not yet been announced.
TESTAMENT singer Chuck Billy, bassist Greg Christian, and guitarists Alex Skolnick and Eric Peterson, alongside ex-DIMMU BORGIR and CRADLE OF FILTH drummer Nick Barker, have finished writing more than half a dozen songs for the group's long-awaited follow-up to 1999's "The Gathering". Tracking is scheduled to begin in June. "Working hard with Nick on some new ideas and some cool old-school styles [that are] coming together really killer," Peterson said in a statement. "It's been a long time coming," Billy added. "This new album is like a good wine: You throw in the grapes and crush."
Finnish cello-rockers APOCALYPTICA have just finished filming a video in Los Angeles with director Tony Petrossian (AVENGED SEVENFOLD, RISE AGAINST, SLIPKNOT) for the song "I'm Not Jesus". Making a guest appearance in the track and the clip is STONE SOUR/SLIPKNOT frontman Corey Taylor.
"I'm Not Jesus" is expected to be included on APOCALYPTICA's new studio album, tentatively due in September/October.
APOCALYPTICA will support METALLICA on July 15 at the Olympic Stadium in Helsinki, Finland. Also scheduled to appear are fellow Finns H.I.M.
Q: „Mabool” was the last album that was released in 2004. Since then, there hasn't been any news coming from you. I know you are working on a new album called "The Neverending Way Of ORwarriOR". Would you say that the new album will mark the path to entering into a new Orphaned Land Universe?
A: I wouldn't know that now. I think that what may do the trick for this album is our work with Steven Wilson who produced Opeth and did wonders with his own project Porcupine Tree. Other than that most of the material is ready and we already recorded the first sketches. Let's wait and see where this album will take us.
Q: As far as I remember the release of „Mabool” was also postponed a little bit in 2004.Why has there been such a long delay in releasing it? Has the political situation in Israel affected the whole situation or are there also musical reasons?
A: No man… the political situation was the last thing that could have postponed the release of mabool. I don't know how it is you look at Israel, but the only effect the political situation can have here, is in the worst case putting a security guard in the entrance to the mall, or having a patrol car around bus stations. We don't let the terror here stop our lives, because this would mean surrendering to it, and we won't let this happen, and I'm sure that any sane nation would do the same. If there had been any delays with the release of Mabool after we recorded it, they might have been some minor technical issues that our label, Century Media, might have had, or other minor technical issued, that's all.
Q: One important aspect for the „Mabool” is that we're not only talking about a very good album, just musically speaking, but there's also a depth in the lyrics and also, the sound is a little changed: Mabool seems less „aggresive” than your previous releases and you have many influences either from your local music or from oriental music patterns. What lead you to this 2004 change and most of all, are you gonna continue with the same style or should we expect some other changes once a new Orphaned Land will be released?
A: I think that a change should never be feared and that it is always a good thing. Though the next album will continue many lines Mabool and its formers have paved, it will also take many other directions in many ways. The next album will continue our "Orienal" approach towards metal, and there will be still complex and less complex guitar melodies, and we will also try to stay a little bit progressive with our approach, and there will be also a concept story behind the lyrics. But we have expanded it musically more than Mabool, and I also think that Steven's touch to things will take everything in a very interesting direction.
SONATA ARCTICA's "Paid in Full" single has entered the Finnish chart at position No. 1. View the chart ' .
"Paid in Full" tracklisting: 01.Paid in Full (radio edit) 02.Out in the Fields * 03.Paid in Full * Gary Moore cover
SONATA ARCTICA's video for "Paid in Full" is available for viewing at ' . The track comes off the group's new album, "Unia" (Finnish for "Dreams"), due in North America on May 22 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD was mixed at Finnvox studio in Helsinki and was mastered at the Cutting Room in Stockholm, Sweden.
WYKKED WYTCH has posted the cover artwork for its upcoming album, "Memories of a Dying Whore" on its web site. The album artwork and booklet were designed by Alexandra V. Bach, based on a concept by WYKKED WYTCH.
OZZY OSBOURNE will perform on ABC-TV's "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" at the end of May (exact date to be announced).
The final artwork for OZZY OSBOURNE's new album, "Black Rain", is available for viewing at this location.
"Black Rain" track listing: 01. Not Going Away 02. I Don't Wanna Stop 03. Black Rain 04. Lay Your World on Me 05. The Almighty Dollar 06. 11 Silver 07. Civilize the Universe 08. Here For You 09. Countdown's Begun 10. Trap Door
On October 27th NUCLEAR BLAST will celebrate its 20th anniversary and therefore throws a nice party. For 45 euros only (excl. Pre-sale fee) you will be able to see BLIND GUARDIAN, DIMMU BORGIR, SUBWAY TO SALLY, KATAKLYSM plus one more top act and several special guests and surprises. The party will take place at Stuttgart ґs Schleyerhalle and the first 1000 people ordering a ticket via http://shop.nuclearblast.de will get a limited festival shirt for free. There will also be the festival-page www.nuclearblast-festival.de shortly on air, where you can read all news and all infos you need.
Candlelight Records has set a September 11 U.S. release date for the forthcoming album from death metal legends OBITUARY. Recording of the currently untitled album is already underway with the CD's completion expected for June 1.
For the recording to their first live DVD at Metal Female Voices Festival, LEAVESґEYES had a very special idea. Instead of playing on a regular stage, they have opted to build a 10-meter long Viking ship, in accordance to the theme of Vinland Saga & Legend Land. On this ship, the band will perform their live-show.
MAYHEM's latest CD, "Ordo Ad Chao", has entered the Norwegian album chart at position No. 12, the band's highest position ever, reports Norwegian music industry weekly "Faro Journalen". MAYHEM has only once before been on the Norwegian charts, when the band's last album, "Chimaira", reached No. 28 in 2004.
Dutch female-fronted symphonic metal band EPICA has signed a deal with Nuclear Blast Records.
Formed by guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Mark Jansen (ex-AFTER FOREVER) in 2002, EPICA has so far released three albums, among them a full-length soundtrack in the vein of Hollywood composers Hans Zimmer and Danny Elfman. The Dutch metallers have already played in 24 countries, and have completed successful tours in Europe, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina and the USA.
EPICA will embark on a North American headlining tour in September. Support at the shows will come from the Austrian/American "epic metal" band VISIONS OF ATLANTIS.
EPICA is currently recording its new album at Gate Studios in Wolfsburg, Germany. The CD, which is being produced by Sascha Paeth, will feature a session appearance by GOD DETHRONED drummer Ariën van Weesenbeek. EPICA has yet to name a full-time drummer following the departure of Jeroen Simons in 2006.
EPICA's previously announced live DVD, which was filmed on May 4, 2006 at Paradiso in Amsterdam, Holland, has been delayed until later this year, according to a posting on the group's official web site. The band's latest album, "Consign to Oblivion", was recorded in early 2005 and features a guest contribution from KAMELOT vocalist Roy Khan.
May, 26 - presentation of the new concert program of Russian metal band ARKONA.
"Ot Serdtsa K Nebu" ("From Heart To Sky") - it's the name of ARKONA's 4th album, which will be started to record after the show day (26.05) is Moscow club "Relax". Band will play new songs!
For the true fans of ARKONA, musicians will play then songs "Марена", which won in the poll on www.arkona-russia.com for the first and last time!
Ukrainian thrash metal maniacs HELLION have finished the work on their first video for song "Hear the Voice" from debut album "Strong Enough". Director is Viktor Priduvalov.
WYKKED WYTCH has issued the following update: "Here is an update on the current status of the release of our new album "Memories of a Dying Whore". The album was completed in December and we are currently seeking a new label to release the album. After parting ways with our label SixSixSix Records, we had a couple of deals that didn't happen and this has caused the delay in the release." WYKKED WYTCH last year posted the uncensored video for the track "Awakened" at YouTube.com. A new edit of the video, including fresh audio, will be included as a multimedia file on the upcoming album.
We have just opened our brand new Gathering webshop! The shop is welcoming you at ' You will find a fine selection of CDs, LPs, DVDs and other merchandising items and we will try to keep our prices as low as possible!
To celebrate this, we have a special offer that is running till end of July 2007! Come check it out on the shop!
We hope you will visit it soon! Cheers, the Gathering & TG webteam!"
The brazilian death metal band SODAMNED posted their demo On The Gallows for download. It was released in 2003 and has the following track list:
01. Hanged 02. Sodamned 03. Dreams and Tears 04. Graveyard of Secrets
Mp3 files of all the songs and also the artwork are available for download. The links of the files, hosted by Nitro Sound Solutions (www.nitross.com) are available in the band's ' as the new song, Locked in the Garret, which will be part of their next release.
The traditional heavy metal band HEREGE posted new versions of the songs "Call Me Herege" and "Flag of the Metal", originally released in the 2003 demo Rise of the Fair, Fall of the Church.
About the new songs the guitarist Dalton Castro, responsible for remastering them, comments: "...since those songs are really good and when we recorded them the production quality was low, I decided to add some details which make them to sound with more energy. Right now we decided to make these versions exclusive for Internet instead of adding as bonus, but maybe we do it in future editions."
The new versions are available in the ' and ' .
Actually Herege is finishing their debut full length and will give more information about it soon.
Jens Ryden, one man army of PROFUNDI (ex Naglfar vocalist) seems to be into collector's items. He designed a special ltd. 100 metal box version of the "The Omega Rising" album containing a ltd. patch, shirt and a special ltd. inlay handnumbered and signed by himself.
As for ordering please go the ' . Hurry, these will be sold out fast!
If you prefer checking out the sound of this release please ' to the PROFUNDI ecard.
According to the Finnish newspaper Helsingin Sanomat, Timo Tolkki (STRATOVARIUS), Tomi Putaansuu (a.k.a. Mr. Lordi; LORDI), Marco Hietala (NIGHTWISH, TAROT), Janne Joutsenniemi (SUBURBAN TRIBE), Tony Kakko (SONATA ARCTICA) and Jarkko Ahola (TERДSBETONI) are among the metal musicians who will contribute material to the upcoming debut album from the winner of the Finnish national TV talent competition "Idols", 22-year-old heavy metal singer Ari Koivunen. The CD will be produced by Nino Laurenne (THUNDERSTONE) and Pasi Heikkilд (45 DEGREE WOMAN) and is tentatively scheduled for release in Finland on June 6.
Omnibus Press will publish Neil Daniels' book "Defenders of the Faith: The True Story of Judas Priest" book in September. According to the book's official description, "Defenders of the Faith" — which is said to be "the first definitive biography of the metal Gods" — "reveals how a group of poor, working-class lads followed in their heroes footsteps.”
Norwegian extreme metal band ARCTURUS has posted the following message on its web site:
"A lot of rumours have been going around after our gig in Melbourne. Simen opened the concert with the words 'Welcome to the last ARCTURUS show ever.' This is a decision we made some time ago. We all have a lot of things going on in our carreers and our lives, and therefore cannot find the time to continue working with this band.”
"We are humble and grateful to all the people that have supported and loved us over the years."
Scarlet Records is going to release the label's first ever DVD on the 16th April. 'Deliver Us From Evil' is the confirmed title for the label's latest effort, a compilation which will include video clips and live clips from some of its most significant artists, such as Necrodeath ('Master Of Morphine'), Vision Divine (We Are, We Are Not'), Hatesphere ('Only The Strongest…', recorded live at France's Hellfest), Barcode ('Fuck What You Say') or Allhelluja ('Superhero Motherfucker Superman', directed by renowed artist Chad Michael Ward) to name a few. Here's the complete tracklist:
1) Necrodeath – Master Of Morphine 2) Stormlord – Under The Boards 3) Allhelluja – Superhero Motherfucker Superman 4) Disarmonia Mundi – Celestial Furnace 5) Barcode – Fuck What You Say 6) Hatesphere – Only The Strongest…(LIVE) 7) Slowmotion Apocalypse – The Insomniac 8) Kayser – Good Citizen 9) Phaze I – Scream Of Dying Dogs 10) Cadaveria – Spell 11)The Defaced – Once In Between 12) Vision Divine – We Are, We Are Not (LIVE) 13) Disarmonia Mundi – Red Clouds
U.D.O. just finished the video clip for the new U.D.O. single "The Wrong Side Of Midnight" (Release Date April, 27). The new full length album "Mastercutor" will be released on May, 18. Check the pictures of the video shoot to get an appeal of "The Wrong Side Of Midnight"
"Mastercutor" tracklist: 01. Mastercutor 02. The Wrong Side Of Midnight 03. The Instigator 04. One Lone Voice 05. We Do - For You 06. Walker Of The Dark 07. Master Of Disaster 08. Tears Of A Clown 09. Vendetta 10. The Devil Walks Alone 11. Dead Man's Eyes 12. Crash Bang Crash
"Suicide Service" трек-лист: 01. SS.071 02. Bittersweet Mixture 03. Between Your Deaths 04. It’s Time 05. Virtual Trap 06. Early Snow 07. My Poison 08. (You Are) Living Pictures 09. Together 10. Craving For The End 11. Memory…
Release date of new single BLIND GUARDIAN "Another Stranger Me" is 4 May on Nuclear Blast.
"Another Stranger Me" track-listing: 01. Another Stranger Me 02. All The Kingґs Horses 03. Dream A Little Dream Of Me 04. Lionheart (demo) 05. The Edge (demo) 06. Another Stranger Me (video)
Belarus-based modern synth metal RASTA continues to attack big European stages.
After last year successeful performance in Czech Republic on Brutal Assault festival, the band was invited to take part in the biggest Czech rock festival - MASTERS OF ROCK 2007 (12-15 July 2007)
RASTA will play on the big stage with such bands as MOTORHEAD, CHILDREN OF BODOM, HAMMERFALL, RAGE, SEPULTURA, STRATOVARIUS, IN EXTREMO, FINNTROLL, EPICA, NORTHER, VISIONS OF ATLANTIS и другими.
This year's METAL SPIRIT RESSURECTION RUSSIAN TOUR will be supported by THE FLAMING ARTS. One band of our agency - Polish death metal band HATE will be the headliner of the tour, which will take part in eleven biggest cities of Russia. Wait for the Armageddon in your city!
HATE (Poland), SINFUL (Moscow), ACT OF GOD (Perm, Moscow), LITTLE DEAD BERTHA (Voronezh), TARTHARIA (Saint-Petersburg), GOTHIC SKY (Michurinsk), DEMOGORGON (Yoshkar-Ola)
CEPHALIC CARNAGE has unveiled the first new track, "Endless Cycle of Violence", from their upcoming full-length album "Xenosapien", via the band's ' . "Endless Cycle of Violence", the album's lead-off track, will also be the first video from the record.
"Xenosapien" was recorded by the band and longtime producer/engineer Dave Otero at their studio in Denver, CO and is set for a May 29 North American release (May 28 internationally) via Relapse. The album’s artwork, designed by Orion Landau, can be previewed at this location.
"Xenosapien" track listing: 01. Endless Cycle of Violence 02. Divination & Volition 03. Molting 04. Touched By An Angel 05. Vaporized 06. Heptarchy 07. G.lobal O.verhaul D.evice 08. Let Them So Long As They Fear 09. The Omega Point 10. Megacosm of the Aquaphobics 11. Ov Vicissitude
Danish power metallers MANTICORA have revealed the artwork and track listing for their sixth full-length album, "The Black Circus Part 2 - Disclosure". The companion CD to last year's "The Black Circus, Part 1 – Letters" was mixed at the Jailhouse studios in Horsens, Denmark between January 25, 2007 and February 1 with producer Tommy Hansen (HELLOWEEN, TNT, PRETTY MAIDS, FATE). A May/June release via Locomotive Music is expected.
"The Black Circus Part 2 - Disclosure" track listing: 01. Entrance 02. Beauty Will Fade 03. Gypsies' Dance Part 2 04. Intuneric V 05. Haita Di Lupi 06. When The Soulreapers Cry 07. Intuneric VI 08. All That Remain 09. Intuneric VII 10. Of Madness In Its Purity 11. Shadows With Tales To Tell - Live In The Black Circus (bonus track Asia) 14. Tour Diary 2005 (bonus video CD Asia)
Check out audio samples ' .
According to a posting on MANTICORA's web site, the following guest musicians appear on the CD:
* Jacob Hansen (INVOCATOR, ANUBIS GATE) on vocals * Teddy Möller (LOCH VOSTOK, WUTHERING HEIGHTS) on growls * Finn Zierler (BEYOND TWILIGHT) doing a keyboard solo * Andreas Lindahl (WUTHERING HEIGHTS, ex-PLATITUDE) doing some keyboard leads and solos
As previously reported, MANTICORA recently recorded a cover of TANKARD's "Total Addiction" ("a real thrash metal classic!!!" according to the band) for a TANKARD tribute album, to be released later in the year by AFM Records.
Danish metallers PYRAMAZE and former ICED EARTH singer Matt Barlow have issued separate statements confirming that Barlow has joined the group as its new frontman following the departure of Lance King.
Commented PYRAMAZE guitarist/songwriter Michael Kammeyer: "I'm very happy to finally announce our new singer. Matthew Barlow (former vocalist of the American metal band ICED EARTH) will be taking over the job as PYRAMAZE vocalist.
DREAM THEATER's new album, "Systematic Chaos", will be released on Tuesday, June 5 (date may vary in different countries) through Roadrunner and will be available in two formats: regular-edition CD (cover) and a special-edition CD and DVD (cover).
The special-edition DVD will include:
* The entire album mixed in 5.1 Surround Sound * "Chaos in Progress - The Making of Systematic Chaos" (a 90-minute documentary directed by Mike Portnoy)
The CD track listing for both editions is:
01. In The Presence of Enemies Pt. 1 (9:00) 02. Forsaken (5:36) 03. Constant Motion (6:55) 04. The Dark Eternal Night (8:51) 05. Repentance (10:43) 06. Prophets Of War (6:01) 07. The Ministry of Lost Souls (14:57) 08. In The Presence of Enemies Pt. 2 (16:38)
The band will shoot a video next week for the first single off the album, "Constant Motion".
DIMMU BORGIR presents the ultimate collector`s item: «Released on April 27th, you will be able to purchase your copy of our very, very noble minted "In Sorte Diaboli" book! Strictly limited to 2000 copies worldwide, it features 32 pages in 7" size, 2 audio bonustracks, a bonus dvd, seven big photo cards, a mirror and a numbered authenticity certificate. Medieval darkness is back - and it has never looked more classy!»
British funeral doom metallers ESOTERIC have announced the addition of drummer Joe Fletcher to the group's ranks. After 18 months, the guys finally found someone suitably talented and disturbed to join them. ESOTERIC looks forward to working with him both live and in the studio. ESOTERIC has nearly completed writing and arranging its fifth album. So far there are over 100 minutes of material and the band hopes to enter the studio in the next month or two.
German power metallers PRIMAL FEAR have set "New Religion" as the title of their new album, due on August 31 via Frontiers Records. The complete track listing for the CD is as as follows (in no particular order):
01. New Religion 02. Drenched In Blood 03. The Curse Of Sharon 04. The Darkness a. Fighting The Darkness b. Darkness II c. Reprise 05. Face The Emptiness 06. Too Much Time 07. Everytime It Rains 08. Burning Bridges 09. Psycho 10. World On Fire 11. The Man (I Don't Know)
Guest musicians on the album include Magnus Karlsson (STARBREAKER, ALLEN/LANDE), Kai Hansen (GAMMA RAY, ex-HELLOWEEN) and Simone Simons (EPICA)
The cover artwork of Swiss metal experimentalists SAMAEL's eighth album, "Solar Soul", has been posted online at the HeavyLaw web site.
Due on June 1 via Nuclear Blast Records, "Solar Soul" will feature the following track listing:
01. Solar Soul 02. Promised Land 03. Slavocracy 04. Western Ground 05. On the Rise 06. Alliance 07. Suspended Time 08. Valkyries' New Ride 09. Ave! 10. Quasar Waves 11. Architect (bonus track) 12. Olympus
The new King Diamond CD will be entitled "Gimme Your Soul ... Please".The CD contains 13 tracks and the song titles are as follows:
1. The Dead (King) 2. Never Ending Hill (Andy) 3. Is Anybody Here? (King) 4. Black Of Night (Andy) 5. Mirror, Mirror (King) 6. The Cellar (Andy) 7. Pictures In Red (Andy) 8. Gimme Your Soul (King) 9. The Floating Head (Andy) 10. Cold As Ice (King) 11. Shapes Of Black (King) 12. The Girl In The Bloody Dress (King) 13. Moving On (King)
The release dates are the following: North America on June 26th by Metal Blade Records. Europe on June 29th by Massacre Records
NILE mainman Karl Sanders has issued the following update: «We are currently finishing the mixes on the new NILE album, entitled “Ithyphallic”, our first album for Nuclear Blast. There are nine songs and one short acoustic piece. A few songtitles: “Language Of The Shadows”, “Even The Gods Must Die”, “The Infinity Of Stone”, “Ithyphallic”, “Papyrii Containg The Spell To Preserve Its Possessor Against Attacks From He Who Is In The Water”.»
Black metallers ABIGOR have unveiled the artwork for their new album, "Fractal Possesion". The CD will be released in Europe on May 2 and the U.S. on June 5.
According to Metal Sludge, WHITE LION has been added to the POISON/RATT summer tour, which is tentatively scheduled to kick off June 12. This information, however, has not yet been confirmed by an official source.
The current touring version of WHITE LION (a.k.a. TRAMP'S WHITE LION) features original member Mike Tramp (vocals) alongside Claus Longwood (bass), Troy Patrick Farrell (drums), Jamie Law (guitar), and Henning Wanner (keyboards).
WHITE LION is planning a small European tour starting with an appearance at Italy's Gods of Metal festival on June 2 and including dates in Turkey, Italy and Sweden (where the group will perform at the Sweden Rock Festival on June 8). The band is also working on releasing a new WHITE LION album late summer.
WHITE LION's "The Definitive Rock Collection", a two-disc compilation featuring the band's hit 1987 single "Wait", plus "When Children Cry", "Tell Me", and several rare rehearsal recordings, came out on January 23 via Rhino.
Singer Christopher Schmid has left the German gothic rockers LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE due to personal reasons.
"I don't feel that I can combine the permanent stress (brought about by touring, concerts and general uncertainties of the music business) with my 'normal' life and my future," Schmid said in a statement.
Although the rest of the band is sad about Christopher's decision to leave the group, they are happy about the fact that Christopher has offered to carry on with LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE as a lyricist and songwriter. The "LACRIMAS sound" will not change, because the brothers Oliver and Christopher will continue to collaborate as before, and Christopher will even add some of his vocal lines to the next album.
According to ROLLING STONE magazine, OZZY's new album will be entitled "Black Rain" and it will be released on June 2007. The first single from the album will be "I don't want to stop" and we will be able to hear it online on the 13th of April through OZZY's official site.
The line up of the band is Zakk Wylde -guitars, Mike Bordin - drums and Rob Nicholson - bass.
Alice Cooper indicated on his radio show last week that the group's new album has only been written so far but not yet recorded. The new CD has been delayed until further notice as the band is working around the producer's schedule.
The original lineup of EXTREME will reunite for a benefit concert and auction in New York City in honor of music manager Steven Hoffman who work for the legendary Leber Krebs organization (AC/DC, SCORPIONS, AEROSMITH). His first big professional success was his discovery of Extreme; Steve was a key player in their runaway ride to the top of the rock charts with 'More Than Words' and their achievement of household-name status. Steve passed away at the age of 38 on October 26, 2003 at Toronto's Princess Margaret Hospital. The event will take place on May 18th at the Canal Room (285 West Broadway) from 7:00 to 10:30 p.m. Other bands scheduled to play at the event include VALENTINE, EVOLUTION, THE ILLEGITIMATE SONS OF THE BLUES BROTHERS and a star-studded lineup of musicians to be announced. A live and silent auction will also be held to raise funds for lung cancer research.
The cover artwork of the new album from German metallers IRON SAVIOR, entitled "Megatropolis", has been posted on the HeavyLaw web site.
IRON SAVIOR will release "Megatropolis" on June 4 via Dockyard 1. The track listing for the effort is as follows:
01. Running Riot 02. The Omega Man 03. Flesh 04. Megatropolis 05. Cybernetic Queen 06. Cyber Hero 07. A Tale From Down Below 08. Still I Believe 09. Farewell And Good Bye
The limited-edition digipack version of the album will include the bonus track "Hammerdown".
IRON SAVIOR's last album, "Battering Ram", came out in 2004.
The cover artwork for ICED EARTH's upcoming EP, "Overture of the Wicked", has been posted online at IcedEarth.com. The art was created by Felipe Machado of Final Frontier Digital Art and Nathan Perry. Due on June 5 via SPV (one day earlier internationally), the CD will feature the following track listing:
01. Ten Thousand Strong 02. Prophecy 03. Birth of the Wicked 04. The Coming Curse
Regarding the songs that appear on the "Overture of the Wicked" EP, ICED EARTH mainman Jon Schaffer recently stated, "First, the song "Ten Thousand Strong" is the single track, and it will appear on [the upcoming full-length album] "Framing Armageddon (Something Wicked Part 1)", albeit a bit different than the single version. Second, the "Something Wicked" trilogy that is comprised of the songs "Prophecy", "Birth of the Wicked", and "The Coming Curse" has been completely re-recorded. From the ground up this is a more vicious and more atmospheric version of the epic piece. I played all of the guitar tracks with a baritone guitar and Brent [Smedley, drums] and I are locked up like a machine gun with the double kicks following many of the detailed picking patterns. This makes for a more intense- and wicked-sounding rhythm section. All of the vocals have been redone, obviously by Tim Owens, who did a masterful job at retaining the passion and honesty of the original, and still put his stamp on it and made it his own. We also put in some teaser atmospheric things that will give you a hint of things to come on Part 1. But just a hint... we don't want to spoil any surprises."
The cover artwork for legendary Swedish doomsters CANDLEMASS' forthcoming album, "King of the Grey Islands", is available for viewing at this location. Due on June 22 through Nuclear Blast Records, the CD will feature the following track listing:
01. Prologue 02. Emperor of the Void 03. Devil Seed 04. Of Stars and Smoke 05. Demonia 6 06. Destroyer 07. Man of Shadows 08. Clearsight 09. The Opal City 10. Embracing the Styx
CANDLEMASS debuted the song "Demonia 6" live during the band's 20th-anniversary concert at Stockholm's Kolingsborg last Saturday (March 31). CANDLEMASS performed with no less than seven (!) different vocalists at the show — including the band's former singers Johan Langquist and Tomas Vikström, plus the group's latest addition, Robert Lowe of SOLITUDE AETURNUS. Check out video footage from the gig ' .
STRAPPING YOUNG LAD mastermind Devin Townsend has finalized the track listing for his next solo album, entitled "Ziltoid the Omniscient". The CD, which will be released under the DEVIN TOWNSEND banner instead of THE DEVIN TOWNSEND BAND, was recorded completely by Devin, who took care of the singing, guitar, bass, synthesizers and sampling duties, in addition to mixing and producing the album on his own. Devin has stated on the HevyDevy forums that he used "the drumkit from Hell" on this release — the same kit that was previously utilized by MESHUGGAH on "Catch Thirty-Three" and which was developed by MESHUGGAH's Tomas Haake. Check out the cover artwork at this location (art created by Travis Smith). Due on May via Inside Out Music America, it will contain the following tracks:
01. By Your Command 02. Ziltoidia Attaxx! 03. Solar Winds 04. Hyperdrive 05. N9 06. Planet Smasher 07. Omnidimensional Creator 08. Color Your World 09. The Greys 10. Tall Latté
American/Norwegian melodic metallers KAMELOT have issued the following update:
"KAMELOT's new masterpiece video 'Ghost Opera' was shot in Belgrade (Serbia) January 2007 and is near its completion. Shot with acclaimed director Ivan Colic, the video also features Serbian model/actress Ivana Jokic [photos]. A world premiere is being planned for April."
KAMELOT will release its new album, "Ghost Opera" on the following dates: Germany: June 1; Europe: June 4; USA: June 5.
"Ghost Opera" will be KAMELOT's third release for SPV/Steamhammer Records.
"Ghost Opera" was recorded and mixed at Gate Studios and Pathway Studios in Wolfsburg, Germany with producers Sascha Paeth and Miro. Artwork was handled by Mattias Norén with contributions by Alexandra V. Bach, Liliana Sanchez and Derek Gores. A limited-edition digipack version of the CD will include the bonus cut "The Pendulous Fall" along with a bonus DVD containing the video for the album's title track, "Ghost Opera", shot by director Ivan Colic of Serbia's ICode team as well as the making of the "Ghost Opera" video. The limited edition will contain a special extended booklet as well.
KAMELOT's current lineup is as follows: Khan - Vocals Thomas Youngblood - Guitars Glenn Barry - Bass Oliver Palotai – Keys Casey Grillo - Drums
Austrian symphonic metal band EDENBRIDGE will issue a rarities/"best of" compilation, entitled "The Chronicles of Eden", as a double-CD and limited double-digipack on May 25. Disc One will contain three new, previously unreleased songs, all Japanese and European bonus tracks and songs that were included on all out-of-print singles. Disc Two will include a "best of" selection out of the five released studio albums. The track listing is as follows:
CD 1 (New Songs, Bonus Tracks, Rarities): 01. Thin Red Line 02. The Silent Wake 03. Images In The Sand 04. For Your Eyes Only 05. Evermore 06. Empire Of The Sun 07. Shine (Single Version) 08. On Sacred Ground 09. Anthem 10. On The Verge Of Infinity 11. The Whispering Gallery 12. The Whisper Of The Ages 13. Velvet Eyes Of Dawn
CD 2 ("Best Of" as voted by the fans): 01. Sunrise In Eden 02. Cheyenne Spirit 03. Arcana 04. The Palace 05. The Undiscovered Land 06. Red Ball In Blue Sky 07. Wild Chase 08. The Canterville Prophecy 09. The Canterville Ghost 10. The Grand Design 11. Terra Nova
EDENBRIDGE last month parted ways with drummer Roland Navratil due to "personal, musical and financial differences." A replacement drummer has yet to be announced.
EDENBRIDGE recently signed a worldwide deal with Napalm Records. The band's first effort for Napalm will be released in the spring of 2008. Production on the CD is tentatively scheduled to begin next fall. Four songs have already been written and EDENBRIDGE will work with a renowned Czech orchestra for the first time in its career.
EDENBRIDGE's fifth album, "The Grand Design", was released in the U.S. on January 30 via Napalm Records. The follow-up to 2004's "Shine" was recorded at The Farpoint Station studio in Austria and the Thin Ice facility in England with THRESHOLD mastermind Karl Groom.
An audio sample of the title track from KOTIPELTO's third album, "Serenity", has been posted on the band's ' . Due in Europe on April 20 via AFM Records, the CD was recorded at Sonic Pump Studios in Helsinki, Finland and was mixed by Mikko Karmila. The album's first single, "Sleep Well", entered the Finnish chart at No. 5. A video for the song has been posted online at YouTube.com. The track is also included in the new Finnish movie "Vares 2", which had its premiere on January 12. "The song is a main theme and can be heard when the credits are scrolling at the end of the movie," said the band's leader and namesake, STRATOVARIUS singer Timo Kotipelto. "The music video include[s] clips from the movie. Some of the actors who are playing the characters on these clips are my personal friends and are very well known in Finland."
"Serenity" (view cover artwork at this location) track listing:
01. Once upon a Time 02. Sleep Well 03. Serenity 04. City of Mysteries 05. King Anti-Midas 06. Angels Will Cry 07. After the Rain 08. Mr. Know-It-All 09. Dreams and Reality 10. Last Defender
KOTIPELTO will team up with CHRIS CAFFERY for a European tour beginning mid-April. Also appearing on the bill are ELIS and TRIOSPHERE.
KOTIPELTO's sophomore solo album, "Coldness", was released in Europe in April 2004 through Century Media Records.
The traditional heavy metal band HEREGE is composing the last songs for their new album, which lyrics will be about marking historical facts of 20th and 21st Century, following a chronological order, from the end of Second World War, passing through Cold War, Latin America dictatorships, untill the present, with themes about globalization and terrorism.
About the lyrics Rodrigo Dantas comments: "This concern with the level of the thematic is decurrent of some lamentable things that we have seen lately in the Heavy Metal scene, many people having ridiculous attitudes, racists and homofobics, amongst other forms of intolerance and alienation that are reproducing there. To not be with the arms crossed ahead of this situation we decided to revive the Heavy Metal subversive spirit, which seems to be forgotten by most bands of the current scene."
Some of the new songs were recently played live in II Bang Your Heads Festival, which featured the bands Herege, Whisper Divine and Dark Shadows.
SALIVA have unleashed the new video for their hit single “Ladies and Gentlemen.” The video features two models from Godsgirls.com, squaring off in a boxing ring in only bikinis and boxing gloves.
To celebrate the success of “Ladies and Gentlemen” and the release of the new video, SALIVA is giving you a chance to win the clothes off the girls back. SALIVA is giving away the autographed robes worn by the God’s Girls in the video and copies of their new album.
' to check out the new video for “Ladies and Gentlemen” now and enter to win a piece of the video.
The black-art band Medievil (http://medievil.net) and the recording label from Kyiv Griffin Music (http://griffinmusic.org) are about to present the full-length album “Atruta”
This album represents a conceptually new stage of Medievil’s development.
The theme of poison (“atruta” in Belarusian) is binding all the tracks on this album. The music is more heavy, hypnotic and black; it is soaked with swamp atmosphere of stagnation and downfall. Technically it is black metal with additions of old-school death/trash, poisonous vocals and ragged riffs along with classic BM tremolo. Ideologically Medievil is remaining distanced from wilting near-black trends, presenting itself as “res in se". Spreading around as bile, “Atruta” is meant to be an embodiment of evolutionary black art.
The album was in process of creation for quite a long time (2003-2006), due to various reasons. Among those are the re-thinking of creative principles, work on the conceptual side of the record and physical remoteness of Medievil’s members, who resided in different countries.
In November 2003 the video for the song “Blood Comes Black” was shot. Time and location were the most suitable for reproducing the atmosphere of the forthcoming album – cold humid fall, dusk and impassable rotting forest.
In spring 2004 during one of the gigs the video for “In Gloom and Spikes” was shot – a live video with studio sound.
The recording of vocals and all the instruments except for drums was done in Pyre Rex during 2004-2005. the drums were recorded in Zaglada studio in Kyiv in August 2005.
By the end of 2005 the album was mixed, in January 2006 the mastering was complete (Pyre Rex).
Total playing time is 59 minutes.
Tracklist:
1.Everything Poisoned 2.Blood Comes Black 3.In Mist We Stand 4.Now I Fly 5.Atruta (I Dissolve In Poisoned Rain) 6.To Nihil 7.Cycle of Rot 8.In Gloom and Spikes 9.Veil of Poison 10.The Roots Are Torn
The CD-release is supposed to appear by april 2007. except for the tracks themselves the CD will contain a bonus – two videos: "Blood comes black" and "In gloom and spikes".
In Minsk the album will be presented with a live show of Medievil on the festival Shiseido Fest-3 on April 28th, 2007.
Static-X is breaking out of Hell’s sub-basement to release their fifth studio album, Cannibal, on April 3rd. Comprising 12 of the harshest, most stripped-down tracks Static-X have ever recorded, Cannibal also finds frontman Wayne Static & Co. sounding leaner and meaner than they have in years—a change the vertical-haired guitarist, vocalist and chief songwriter attributes to the back-to-basics approach they took to recording the album. “I think it’s the most metal record we’ve ever made, and it’s arguably the heaviest record we’ve ever made,” Static explains.
To celebrate the release of Cannibal on April 3rd, the band is giving you the chance to win an ESP LTD EX-50 Metallic Silver Guitar autographed by the band. So don’t miss out on your chance to get your own Static-X ESP guitar. '
Reactivated Australian thrashers MORTAL SIN will support SLAYER and MASTODON on April 17 at the Hordern Pavilion in Sydney. "If you ain't inside the venue early to catch our show I will personally whip your ass!" vocalist Mat Maurer joked in an online posting. "We wanna show some Aussie metal pride! We'll be on early, and we only get 20 minutes, but I guarantee you those 20 minutes will be the most intense MORTAL SIN will ever play. DON'T MISS OUT!"
In other news, MORTAL SIN has finished tracking its long-awaited new album, "An Absence of Faith", due later in the year. The track listing is as follows:
01. Out of the Darkness 02. Before the Bough Breaks 03. Tears of Redemption 04. Deadman Walking 05. Lost Within 06. Say Your Prayers 07. Eye in the Sky 08. Rise or Fall 09. My Nightmare 10. Broken Promises
Guitarist Anthony Nichols of Boston metallers MELIAH RAGE has been busy writing music for the band's next record, tentatively due before the end of the year. According to the group, "the music thus far is heavier and more riff-oriented than the last two releases, but has all the elements of classic MELIAH RAGE." A remastered release of the 1996 classic "Death Valley Dream" is also in the works for this spring.
MELIAH RAGE's latest CD, "The Deep and Dreamless Sleep" (2006), is the band's seventh release overall, and third for Screaming Ferret Wreckords. The CD was recorded at Danger Multitrack Studios in Providence, RI, and Sherwood Forest Studios in Bedford, MA.
British doomsters ORANGE GOBLIN have completed work on their new album, "Healing Through Fire" (artwork), at Fortress Studios in London with producer Mark Daghorn. The final track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. The Ballad Of Solomon Eagle 02. Vagrant Stomp 03. The Ale House Braves 04. Cities Of Frost 05. Hot Knives and Open Sores 06. Hounds Ditch 07. Mortlake (Dead Water) 08. They Come Back (Harvest Of Skulls) 09. Beginners Guide To Suicide
Swiss metal experimentalists SAMAEL have moved forward the release date of their eighth album, "Solar Soul" (Nuclear Blast), to June 1 from the previously announced June 15. The CD will contain the following track listing:
01. Solar Soul 02. Promised Land 03. Slavocracy 04. Western Ground 05. On the Rise 06. Alliance 07. Suspended Time 08. Valkyries' New Ride 09. Ave! 10. Quasar Waves 11. Architect (bonus track) 12. Olympus
To check out the new SAMAEL song "Slavocracy", taken from the upcoming CD, go to ' .
Finnish newspaper Ilta-Sanomat is reporting that NIGHTWISH has already chosen a replacement for singer Tarja Turunen, but the band is carefully guarding her identity. However, according to Ilta-Sanomat, the new vocalist is none other than former TRISTANIA frontwoman Vibeke Stene (Photo#1, Photo#2).
There are a number of signs pointing to the fact that Vibeke is Tarja's replacement in NIGHTWISH. For example, influential European music business person Frank Stroebele (manager for WITHIN TEMPTATION and ANASTACIA) recently asked an Ilta-Sanomat reporter, "Have you heard who the new singer of NIGHTWISH is? I understand that it is Vibeke."
Vibeke quit TRISTANIA last month "due to personal reasons," making the timing of her departure perfect if she were to join NIGHTWISH.
However, the only public information about the new vocalist that has come out of the NIGHTWISH camp so far has been offered by the group's manager, Ewo Pohjola (a.k.a. Ewo Rytkönen) of King Foo Entertainment. "She is getting along very well with the guys," he said. "She is very talented, clever and sweet."
ARCH ENEMY's "Black Earth" album, originally released in 1996 on Wrong Again Records, will be reissued on April 24 via Regain Records. In addition to the original nine songs, the reissue will contain three bonus tracks — "Losing Faith" and the IRON MAIDEN covers "The Ides of March" and "Aces High" — as well as a video for "Bury Me An Angel".
ARCH ENEMY is scheduled to enter the studio this spring to begin recording the follow-up to 2005's "Doomsday Machine", tentatively due before the end of the year.
ICED EARTH mainman Jon Schaffer has sent the following update to BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
"I just wanted to give you an update of what's happening in ICED EARTH world.
"We just finished mixing and mastering the [new] single, which will be titled 'Overture of the Wicked' and should be released in late May or early June. The four songs that will be featured on this are as follows:
01. Ten Thousand Strong 02. Prophecy 03. Birth of the Wicked 04. The Coming Curse
"'Ten Thousand Strong' will be the song that we will be filming a video for in the following months, most likely in June right around the Sweden Rock festival.
"I'm very happy with the results of our efforts. We've been really working hard on delivering something special to you guys and this single is just a hint of things to come, and it's freakin' awesome.
"We will be finishing the rest of production for Part 1 over the course of the next few weeks, with plans to mix in the early part of May. The title of the full release is 'Framing Armageddon (Something Wicked Part 1)' and should be out in the late August/September time frame. The 'Framing Armageddon' tracklist will appear as follows:
01. Overture 02. Something Wicked (Part 1) 03. Invasion 04. Man's Motivation 05. The Setian Massacre 06. A Charge to Keep 07. Reflections 08. Ten Thousand Strong 09. Execution 10. Order of the Rose 11. The Clouding 12. Infiltrate and Assimilate 13. Retribution Through the Ages 14. Something Wicked (Part 2) 15. The Domino Decree 16. Framing Armageddon 17. When Stars Collide (Born is He) 18. The Awakening
"The working title of Part 2 is 'Revelation Abomination Something Wicked (Part 2)' and the tracklist is as follows:
01. The Sacred Flames 02. Behold the Wicked Child 03. Minions of the Watch 04. A Gift or a Curse 05. I Walk Among You 06. Harbinger of Fate 07. Ancient Rage of the High Priest 08. A Gathering Threat / Time Marches On 09. Sacrificial Kingdoms 10. Something Wicked (Part 3) 11. Divide Devour 12. Conspiracy / Pilgrimage In Guile 13. Come What May
"The final tracking and mixing for Part 2 will take place between the festivals and world tour and will have a targeted release in February/March of 2008.
"Due to family health issues, Bo Wallace will not be able to be involved with ICED EARTH. I played the bass guitar parts on the single and we will be bringing Dennis Hayes, who worked with Tim [Owens, vocals] on his BEYOND FEAR side project, in to play on parts of the remainder of the recording. He will be doing the live shows as well."
On April 13th, 2007 long-running British gothic metal leaders PARADISE LOST will release the first single taken off their much anticipated upcoming Century Media Records debut "In Requiem", which sees the band combine the classic heaviness of "Draconian Times" with the melodic feel of their more recent studio albums. The new single "The Enemy" will only be released in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy.
The album "In Requiem" will be released on May 21st, 2007 in Europe.
The single "The Enemy" includes a trailer of the upcoming PARADISE LOST documentary "Over The Madness" (directed by Diran Noubar and debuting at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2007) as video enhancement and the exclusive non-album track "Godless".
Here the full track-listing for PARADISE LOST's new single "The Enemy": 1. The Enemy 2. Beneath Black Skies 3. Godless (exclusive single bonus track)
A brand new MÅNEGARM track, entitled "Genom världar nio", has been made available for streaming ' (click on "Play"). The song comes off the Swedish "Viking metal" act's new album, "Vargstenen" (The Wolfstone), due on May 4 via Black Lodge Records. The CD was recorded at Studio Underground with producer Pelle Saether.
"Vargstenen" projected track listing: 01. Uppvaknande-Ur själslig död 02. Minnen-En fallen fader 03. Den gamle talar (acoustic) 04. Genom världar nio 05. Visioner på isen 06. Vargbrodern talar (acoustic) 07. I underjorden 08. Nio dagar, nio nätter 09. Vargstenen 10. Vedergällningens tid 11. TBA (acoustic)
Dutch melodic death/thrash metal outfit DETONATION has made a new song, entitled "Invoking the Impact", available for streaming via the band's ' .
Due in Europe on April 30 via Osmose Productions, "Emission Phase", was recorded with Split Second Sound's Jochem Jacobs (also guitar player for TEXTURES) and Bouke Visser. The cover artwork was created by Eliran Kantor.
"Emission Phase" track listing: 01. Invoking the Impact 02. When Stone turns to Ash 03. Craven Ablaze 04. Into the Emission Phase 05. Chokedamp 06. Defects of the Isolated Mind 07. Modulate 08. Infected 09. Soul Severance 10. Reborn inside the Radiance 11. Fallout (instrumental)
W.A.S.P. will release its new studio CD, "Dominator", in the U.K. on April 16, Scandinavia on April 20, and the rest of mainland Europe on April 27 via Demolition Records. The CD will arrive in South America and Russia in early May.
"Dominator" track listing: 01. Mercy 02. Long, Long Way To Go 03. Take Me Up 04. The Burning Man 05. Heaven’s Hung In Black 06. Heaven’s Blessed 07. Teacher 08. Heaven’s Hung In Black (Reprise) 09. Deal With The Devil
AFTER FOREVER – "Energize Me" taken from the album "After Forever"
The magnificent clip for AFTER FOREVER's brand new single "Energize Me", featuring a thrilling concept around the four elements fire, water, air and earth, can be found here:
THRESHOLD – "Pilot In The Sky Of Dreams" taken from the album "Dead Reckoning"
Take the time and enjoy THRESHOLD's brand new video for the single "Pilot In The Sky Of Dreams"! The atmospheric clip, produced by German company film-m (which has already worked with DISILLUSION, AMON AMARTH, DEADSOUL TRIBE and DEW-SCENTED) can be found at the following platforms:
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THUNDERSTONE – "Face In The Mirror" taken from the album "Evolution 4.0"
Dark & futuristic – THUNDERSTONE, who recently received a superb 2nd position at the Finnish Eurovision finals, take you on a thrilling trip with "Face In The Mirror":
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CHIMAIRA – "Resurrection" taken from the album "Resurrection"
Brutal as a punch in the face – here comes "Resurrection"! The clip was directed by Todd Bell and features an appearance by Mixed Martial Arts fighter Mavrick:
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SIRENIA – "The Other Side" taken from the album "Nine Destinies And A Downfall"
Get ecstasized by the second video off SIRENIA's new album "Nine Destinies And A Downfall". The renowed Serbian production company I-Code created another mystic masterpiece with "The Other Side":
1. ВОЗЬМИ МЕНЯ К ВОРОТАМ ВАВИЛОНА (музыка - Mission, текст - Пушкина) 2. БАЛЛАДА ЗЕМЛИ (музыка - Mission, текст - Пушкина) 3. МЫ ПОБЕДИМ! (музыка - Mission, текст - Jeff) 4. БАЛЛАДА ЗЕМЛИ (piano version) (музыка - Mission, текст - Пушкина, аранжировка и партия фортепиано - Жиляков) 5. КРЫЛЬЯ ([AMATORY] version)
Dutch female-fronted symphonic metal outfit AFTER FOREVER's video for its new single, "Energize Me", has been posted online at ' . The clip was shot last month in Amsterdam, Holland.
The "Energize Me" single is due on March 23, featuring the songs "Energize Me" (radio edit), "Energize Me" (album version), "Sweet Enclosure" (non-album track).
San Diego, California-based heavy metal band CAGE has finalized the track listing for its upcoming fourth album, entitled "Hell Destroyer", due in May via Destroy All Records Entertainment (distributed by BCD Music Group). The cover artwork was created, once again, by Marc Sasso, who worked on CAGE's third CD, "Darker Than Black", and who has also collaborated with HALFORD, DIO, MORBID ANGEL and ROB ROCK, among many others.
"Hell Destroyer" was recorded, engineered, produced and mixed at Richard Carr Studios in San Diego, California by Richard "The Guru" Carr and executive producers, CAGE vocalist Sean Peck and guitarist Dave Garcia. The CD was mastered by two-time Grammy-award winner Gavin Lurssen (GUNS N' ROSES, ALICE COOPER, MÖTLEY CRÜE, MOTÖRHEAD, ROB ZOMBIE) at Lurssen Mastering in Hollywood, California.
"Hell Destroyer" track listing: 01. Hell Destroyer 02. I Am The King 03. Christ Hammer 04. Born in Blood 05. Rise of The Beast 06. Bohemian Grove 07. From Death to Legend 08. Legion of Demons 09. Fall of The Angels 10. Fire and Metal 11. Beyond The Apocalypse 12. Metal Devil 13. King Diamond
Check out the title track at the band's official web site.
Finnish folk metallers KORPIKLAANI have uploaded an audio sample from their upcoming fourth album, "Tervaskanto", ' .
"Tervaskanto" (view cover artwork at this location) was recorded at Fantom Studios in Tampere, Finland with producer Samu Oittinen. 11 songs were reportedly recorded for the follow-up to "Tales along this Road", tentatveily due in May via Napalm Records.
The cover artwork for OMNIUM GATHERUM's new album, "Stuck Here on Snake's Way", has been posted online at this location. Due on April 2 via Candlelight Records, the CD was recorded during November-December 2006 at Southeast Studios in Karhula, Finland with producer Teemu Aalto. An eight-minute video clip documenting the recording sessions for the album has been posted online at ' .
"Stuck Here on Snake's Way" track listing: 01. The Snake and The Way 02. Into Sea ' 03. Dysnomia 04. A-Part of God 05. Undertaker 06. Bastard-O 07. The Third Flame 08. Just Signs 09. Truth 10. Drudgery 11. In Sane World 12. Spiritual '
"Stuck Here on Snake's Way" marks the band's first release with brand new vocalist Jukka Pelkonen, who joined the group in May 2006.
A small version of the artwork that will appear on DARK TRANQUILLITY's new album, "Fiction", has been posted online at Century Media's official web site.
Due in April via Century Media Records, "Fiction" was mixed by the acclaimed Tue Madsen (HIMSA, THE HAUNTED) and encompasses all of the elements on which the band built their career: thought-provoking lyrics, shredding guitar work, captivating melodies and sheer brutality. This offering is perhaps best compared to a modern-day version of the group's revered classics "The Gallery" and "The Mind's I", only with more intensity behind it.
"Fiction" track listing: 01. Nothing To No One 02. The Lesser Faith 03. Terminus (Where Death Is Most Alive) 04. Blind At Heart 05. Icipher 06. Inside The Particle Storm 07. Empty Me 08. Misery's Crown 09. Focus Shift 10. The Mundane And The Magic 11. A Closer End (Japan bonus track) 12. Winter Triangle (instrumental) (Australia bonus track)
AFTER FOREVER guitarist/songwriter Sander Gommans has issued the following update on his HDK project:
Just returned from Germany, where we recorded some vocal parts of André Matos (ex-ANGRA, SHAAMAN, VIRGO) for HDK!!! I'm proud to be able to work with this experienced and appreciated singer in the metal world, and he has certainly contributed a lot to the versatility of the project! Some of the songs will have more melodic parts, some of the songs will be merely filled with screams and grunts and of course there will be combinations of different singers/styles. By the way, André is not only a great singer (and he can sing in an extreme way, you'll hear it), he's also a great person and together with Amanda Somerville [the American singer-songwriter and vocal coach who is better known for her collaborations with various European metal bands, including EPICA, AFTER FOREVER and EDGUY] we had a fantastic time in the studio where André, of course, had to make the famous Brazilian drink."
HDK's musical direction was previously described by Gommans as "modern trash/death metal with a lot of melodic influences." The following musicians are currently involved with the project:
Sander Gommans (AFTER FOREVER) – Guitar, Vocals Ariën van Weesenbeek (GOD DETHRONED) - Drums Peter Vink (STAR ONE, AYREON) - Bass Mike Scheijen (37 STABWOUNDZ) - Vocals Patrick Savelkoul (CALLENISH CIRCLE) - Vocals André Matos (ex-ANGRA, SHAAMAN, VIRGO) - Vocals
SIEGES EVEN will enter the studio in May to begin recording its new album, "Paramount", for a September release via Inside Out Music. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Paramount", "Duende", "Leftovers", "Tidal", "A Wallflower on the Day of Saint Juliana", "The Valparaiso Dreaming", "Where our Shadows Sleep" and "These Rooms Have No Memories".
SIEGES EVEN's current lineup consists of Arno Menses (vocals), Oliver Holzwarth (bass), Markus Steffen (guitars) and Alex Holzwarth (drums, RHAPSODY).
The cover artwork for DIMMU BORGIR'a new album, "In Sorte Diaboli", can be found at this location.
Teaming up once again with producer Fredrik Nordström (OPETH, ARCH ENEMY, AT THE GATES) at the new Studio Fredman in Hyssna, Sweden, "In Sorte Diaboli" is DIMMU BORGIR's first concept album and a treatise on modern-day political and social abuses of organized religion. An epic tale set in medieval Europe, this first-person account of an acolyte is told through his own journal entries, depicting his personal struggle with the teachings of the church. Experiencing a life-altering epiphany, he abandons the church completely, and his spiritual victory is won through his rejection of the concept of god.
"In Sorte Diaboli" will be available in North America on April 24 in two different formats: a jewel-case CD and a limited edition digipak (+ bonus track, + bonus DVD with the Patric Ullaeus-directed video for "The Serpentine Offering", + "The Making Of In Sorte Diaboli" in-studio/behind the scenes footage). The complete track listing is as follows:
01. The Serpentine Offering 02. The Chosen Legacy 03. The Conspiracy Unfolds 04. The Sacrilegious Scorn 05. The Fallen Rises 06. The Heretic Hammer (exclusive North American bonus track) 07. The Sinister Awakening 08. The Fundamental Alienation 09. The Invaluable Darkness 10. The Foreshadowing Furnace
An instrumental version of "The Heretic Hammer" will be available on iTunes.com as an additional North American exclusive.
A virtual release party for MANOWAR's new full-length album, "Gods of War" will start ' on Thursday, February 22 at 23:59 (CET) and will last until 2:00 (CET). You can listen to music from the brand new album, continously streamed in a loop.
Directly after the Virtual Release Party, all songs from "Gods of War" will be available for paid download at the merchandise section of www.manowar.com.
MANOWAR has revealed the complete track listing for its tenth full-length album, "Gods of War", which is scheduled for release on February 23 in Germany (February 26 for the rest of Europe and April 3 for the USA/Canada). It is as follows:
01. Overture To The Hymn Of The Immortal Warriors 02. The Ascension 03. King Of Kings 04. Army Of The Dead, Part I 05. Sleipnir 06. Loki God Of Fire 07. Blood Brothers 08. Overture To Odin 09. The Blood Of Odin 10. The Sons Of Odin 11. Glory Majesty Unity 12. Gods Of War 13. Army Of The Dead, Part II 14. Odin 15. Hymn Of The Immortal Warriors Bonus Track: 16. Die For Metal
Finland's WALTARI has posted a video for the new song "Get Stamped" on its MySpace page. The track comes off the group's new album, "Release Date", due on February 26 via Dockyard 1.
According to a press release, the new CD is "darker" than 2005's "Blood Sample", "but also again crazier in the mix of possible styles and the general frenzy of these Finnish music innovators."
"Release Date" track listing: 01. Get Stamped 02. Big Sleep 03. Let's Puke Together 04. Cityshamaani a. Nightflight b. Morning c. Colgate Country Showdown d. The Incarnation Party e. Sympathy 05. Hype 06. THD 07. Sex In The Beergarden 08. Wish I Could Heal 09. Spokebone (featuring Värttinä)
MORGANA LEFAY will release a new single, entitled "Over and Over Again", on February 26 via Black Mark. Also included on the single will be the new cut "Face of Fear". Both tracks come off the band's new album, "Aberrations of the Mind", due on March 19. Check out audio samples ' . Two more songs from the CD — "The Rush of Possession" and "Reflections of War" — are available for listening on the band's web site, www.morganalefay.se.
The artwork for Australian gothic/classical/doom band VIRGIN BLACK's upcoming album "Requiem - Mezzo Forte" has been posted online at this location. Due on April 3 via The End Records, the album, which is part of the "Requiem" trilogy, will be the first installment (the second of the trilogy) released and will be followed later on this year by "Requiem – Pianissimo" and "Requiem – Fortissimo". An MP3 of the edited version of the lengthy track "...And I Am Suffering" has been posted online at the official The End Records' ' .
"Requiem - Mezzo Forte" track listing: 01. Requiem, Kyrie 02. In Death 03. Midnight’s Hymn 04. …And I am Suffering 05. Domine 06. Lacrimosa (I Am Blind With Weeping) 07. Rest Eternal
ANTIMATTER have just finished working on their fourth studio album "Leaving Eden". After Duncan Patterson left the band in 2005, Mick Moss gathered a number of guest musicians around him - among others Danny Cavanagh (ANATHEMA) - to record the most depressive and heaviest album of ANTIMATTER's discography. This is attested by the dynamics of "Leaving Eden", the increased use of electric guitars and forceful drumming. "Leaving Eden" will be released as a limited first edition in a Digipak on April 16th, 2007.
Final tracklisting: 'Redemption' 'Another Face In A Window' 'Ghosts' 'The Freak Show' 'Landlocked' 'Conspire' 'Leaving Eden' 'The Immaculate Misconception' 'Fighting For A Lost Cause'
Canadian metallers ANNIHILATOR have inked a deal with King Records for the Japanese release of their new album, "Metal". An April 11 release is expected.
The Japanese edition of "Metal" will contain a bonus track, a cover of legendary Canadian act EXCITER's classic "Heavy Metal Maniac", featuring original singer/drummer Dan Beehler on vocals and bassist Allan Johnson on bass.
According to Tangra Mega Rock, French-Austrian dark neoclassical act ELEND will release its long-awaited sixth full-length album, "A World in Their Screams", on April 23 through Holy Records.
ELEND is a dark ambient band formed in France in 1993 by composers and multi-instrumentalists Iskandar Hasnawi of France and Renaud Tschirner of Austria. The band's name is German for "misery." Their music can be described as gothic and orchestral music with post-romantic undertones, or simply neoclassical.
"A World in Their Screams" is the follow-up to 2004's "Sunwar the Dead", which was the second part of the band's new five-album "Winds Cycle."
Swedish black metallers MARDUK have set "Rom 5:12" as the title of their new album, tentatively due this spring. Check out the cover artwork at this location. The CD was recorded at Endarker studio and features guest appearances by ARDITI (the project formed by H. Moller from PUISSANCE and M. Bjorkman), Joakim Göthberg (who played drums on the first two MARDUK albums and sang on the group's second and the third LPs) on a track entitled "Cold Mouth Prayer", and Alan "Nemtheanga" Averill from Irish band PRIMORDIAL on the song "Accuser/Opposer".
Finnish melodic metallers SONATA ARCTICA have seet "Unia" (Finnish for "Dreams") as the title of their new album, due on May 25 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD is being mixed at Finnvox studio in Helsinki.
Vocalist Wade Black of the reactivated classic Florida metallers CRIMSON GLORY has commented on the band's split with original singer Midnight and their future plans, including two live dates in Florida in March.
CRIMSON GLORY parted ways with Midnight (real name: John Patrick McDonald Jr.) last month following the revelation that Midnight was arrested on January 20 in Sarasota, Florida and charged with "DUI [driving under the influence] with .20 [blood-alcohol level] or higher or having a passenger under 18" years of age.
Вritish gothic metallers PARADISE LOST have set "In Requiem" as the title of their 11th album, tentatively due for release in May via Century Media Records. The artwork for the CD will be created by Seth Siro Anton, who was the artwork designer for the group's last album, "Paradise Lost".
According to a posting on PARADISE LOST's official web site, "The band recently returned from Canada following completion of recording the new CD, produced by Rhys Fulber. The album has been mixed by Mike Fraser — who is well known for his work with bands such as METALLICA, AC/DC, VAN HALEN etc."
In other news, PARADISE LOST's April 12 concert at the Koko Club in London will be filmed for an upcoming DVD. More information will be made available soon.
A brand new SIX FEET UNDER track, entitled "Doomsday", is available for download ' . The song comes off the group's new album, "Commandment", due on April 17 via Metal Blade Records. The track listing is as follows:
01. Doomsday 02. Thou Shall Kill 03. Zombie Executioner 04. The Edge Of The Hatchet 05. Bled To Death 06. Resurrection Of The Rotten 07. As The Blade Turns 08. The Evil Eye 09. In A Vacant Grave 10. Ghosts Of The Undead
Swiss hard rockers GOTTHARD entered the studio late last year with producers Leo Leoni and Ronald Prent (who worked with the band on their last effort, "Lipservice") to begin recording their new album, entitled "Domino Effect". An early summer release is expected.
In a recent interview with Spain's Laestadea.com, MASTERPLAN guitarist Roland Grapow has confirmed plans for a collaborative project with his ex-HELLOWEEN bandmates Michael Kiske (vocals) and Kai Hansen (guitar, vocals). An excerpt from the chat follows:
Q: About Hansen and Kiske, there's a rumor of a project. Is that right?
Grapow: "It's not a rumor, it's true. We’re just waiting for the right moment. We gathered together two or three times in the last two years. What happens is that Michael doesn't want to do anything with too much hard rock or too much heavy metal, too much dark or negative, he wants to do something more lively. So, probably, when I finish the tour with MASTERPLAN, I'll begin to write some tracks for Mike. Kai too. We'll see what will come out. But, once and for all, we will do something."
Q: Does this project have a name?
Grapow: "No, not yet! Perhaps it will be called HELLOWEEN! (Laughs). No, it’s a joke. At the moment we haven't thought of any names because we haven't planned it out yet. Now we only want to write a few songs which we feel comfortable with, that Michael doesn't find negative, but we all love. Because we don't want to make a Kiske solo album with two famous guitarists from the past. We search for music which speaks for itself without any need to be aggressive or negative."
A video for the new WALTARI song "Wish I Could Heal" has been posted on the ' . Also available at the same location is a streaming audio version of the track. The cut comes off the Finnish band's upcoming album, "Release Date", due on February 26 via Dockyard 1.
Legendary German progressive thrash outfit MEKONG DELTA has set "Lurking Fear" as the title of its upcoming "comeback" album, tentatively due later in the year. Working songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Rules of Corruption", "Society of Fear", "Ratters", "Shadow of Truth" and "Immortal Hate".
As previously reported, MEKONG DELTA has recruited Leo Szpigiel (ANGEL DUST, CROWS, SCANNER, DUKE) to sing on the new CD.
Danish symphonic black metallers ILLNATH have tapped Reno Kiilerich (ex-DIMMU BORGIR, PANZERCHRIST, DEW-SCENTED) to play drums on their third album, entitled "Three Nights in the Sewers of Sodom". The CD is being recorded at Borsing Studios and will feature artwork by Wilhelm Steiner.
CHRIS CAFFERY signed with Metal Heaven and his new album will have the title "Pins And Needles".The songs definitely are deadringers for any SAVATAGE fan. However, there is a more powerful, aggressive, experimental and focused attack that is sure to catch the ears of any metal fan. The album was produced by CAFFERY together with Nik Chinboukas at Nik's Hot Tracks Studio, Spin Studios and Happy Beaver Studios, Astoria, NY.
The ltd. edition first pressing of this release will be a digi-pack incl. the bonus track "Once Upon A Time".
The tracklist of "Pins & Needles" will be as follows: 01. Pins & Needles 02. Sixty-Six 03. Torment 04. Walls 05. YGBFKM 06. Sad 07. Chained 08. Worms 09. Crossed 10. The Time 11. Metal East 12. Qualdio 13. The Temple 14. Once Upon A Time (bonus track)
According to the web site of the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, CRIMSON GLORY frontman John Patrick Jr. "Midnight" McDonald was arrested last Saturday night, January 20 in Sarasota, Florida and charged with "DUI [driving under the influence] with .20 [blood-alcohol level] or higher or having a passenger under 18" years of age. He was also cited for driving with a suspended/cancelled/revoked license. Bond for the 44-year-old vocalist — who gave his occupation as "painter" to the authorities at the time of the arrest — was set at $1,500. He is scheduled to be arraigned on February 8.
SLAVIOR, the new band featuring former FATES WARNING/WARLORD drummer Mark Zonder, MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP guitarist/keyboardist Wayne Findlay and ex-TRIBE OF GYPSIES singer Gregg Analla, has finalized the track listing for its self-ttiled debut album, due on April 3 via Inside Out Music.
A versatile, melodic hard rock/metal act, SLAVIOR's debut album features elements familiar to Zonder's progressive metal past, but also introduces a wide array influences including reggae, hip-hop, and modern rock.
The band had originally inked a deal with Greece's Black Lotus Records, but financial turmoil eventually caused the label to fold, leaving SLAVIOR to re-evaluate matters and come to their initial choice of labels, Inside Out.
"Slavior" track listing: 01. Clonus 02. Her Animal 03. Dog Boots 04. Bitch 05. King Of The Universe 06. Inside Black 07. Warfinger 08. Chocolate 09. Pods Of Trance 10. 2116
REDEMPTION, the Los Angeles-based progressive metal band led by guitarist/keyboardist/songwriter Nicolas van Dyk and featuring vocal legend Ray Alder of FATES WARNING, will release its third CD, "The Origins of Ruin", on April 3 via Inside Out Music.
Injecting traditional progressive metal with an uncommon degree of heaviness and melody, REDEMPTION's new CD follows up 2005's breakthrough release "The Fullness of Time", the band's first with Alder, which generated tremendous critical and popular acclaim. With Bernie Versailles (guitars, AGENT STEEL), Chris Quirarte (drums, PRYMARY) and new bass player Sean Andrews (who performed on Henning Pauly's CHAIN project), REDEMPTION is one of the most prominent up-and-coming progressive metal bands.
"The Origins of Ruin" track listing: 01. The Suffocating Silence (download mp3) 02. Bleed Me Dry 03. The Death of Faith & Reason 04. Memory 05. The Origins of Ruin 06. Man of Glass 07. Blind My Eyes 08. Used to Be 09. Fall on You 10. Precious Things (TORI AMOS cover) 11. Love To Love (UFO cover)
According to The Vault, Finnish symphonic metallers NIGHTWISH have lined up the following U.S. dates in October/November:
Oct. 20 - Worcester, MA @ The Palladium Oct. 27 - Chicago, IL @ House of Blues Nov. 01 - Portland, OR @ Roseland Theater Nov. 12 - Houston, TX @ The Meridian Nov. 14 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Culture Room
NIGHTWISH is currently working on its new album for a tentative late summer release. The band is expected to announce a new singer and release a brand new single at the end of May.
NIGHTRAGE: 'A New Disease Is Born' Track Listing Finalized - Jan. 21, 2007 Swedish/Greek death metal outfit NIGHTRAGE has finalized the track listing for upcoming Lifeforce Records debut (third album overall), "A New Disease Is Born", due in North America on April 17. The CD was recorded at Hansen studios in Ribe, Denmark with producer Jacob Hansen (RAUNCHY, MERCENARY, FEAR MY THOUGHTS, HEAVEN SHALL BURN).
"A New Disease Is Born" track listing: 01. Spiral (4:39) 02. Reconcile (4:25) 03. Death-Like Silence (4:36) 04. A Condemned Club (3:45) 05. Scars of the Past (3:39) 06. De-Fame (2:52) 07. Scathing (4:36) 08. Surge of Pity (4:12) 09. Encircle (3:34) 10. Drone (3:23) 11. Spiritual Impulse (3:33) 12. A New Disease Is Born (instrumental) (2:58)
Long-running Italian metallers WHITE SKULL have finally confirmed that they have parted ways with singer Gus Gabarrò (as BLABBERMOUTH.NET first reported on Oct. 19, 2006). Replacing Gabarrò in the group's current lineup is female vocalist Elisa "Over" De Palma.
ENSIFERUM has finalized the track listing for its third album, "Victory Songs", due on February 21 via Spinefarm. The CD was recorded at Sonic Pump Studios in Helsinki with producer Janne Joutsenniemi.
"Victory Songs" track listing: 01. Ad Victoriam 02. Blood Is the Prince of Glory 03. Deathbringer from the Sky 04. Ahti 05. One More Magic Potion 06. Wanderer 07. Raised by the Sword 08. The New Dawn 09. Victory Song
A limited-edition version of the album includes an extra track, "Lady in Black", and a bonus DVD. A CD single, "One More Magic Potion", will precede the album on February 7. Also included on the single will be "Lady in Black".
Spinefarm Records recently revealed the cover artwork for the fifth FINNTROLL album, which may or may not be entitled "Ur Jordens Djup" ("From the Depths of the Earth"), due in Finland on March 28. Check it out at this location. The CD, which was recorded by Nino Laurenne at Sonic Pump studios in Helsinki, will be the group's first release with new vocalist Mathias Lillmåns (a.k.a. Vreth; TWILIGHT MOON) following the departure of Tapio Wilska (SETHIAN, ex-WIZZARD, former session vocalist for NIGHTWISH) last spring. Lillmåns is reportedly 24 years old, and like FINNTROLL's original vocalist, Katla Mathias, is Fenno-Swedish, with Swedish as his mother tongue.
"Ur Jordens Djup" (working title) track listing: 01. Gryning 02. Sång 03. Korpens Saga 04. Nedgång 05. Ur Djupet 06. Slagbröder 07. En Mäktig Här 08. Ormhäxan 09. Maktens Spira 10. Under Två Runor 11. Kvällning
Dutch female-fronted symphonic metal band WITHIN TEMPTATION has provided music for the forthcoming werewolf film "Blood and Chocolate". Check out the trailer ' .
WITHIN TEMPTATION has finalized the track listing for its new album, "The Heart of Everything", due later in the year in the U.S. via Roadrunner Records. Check out the CD cover artwork at this location.
The 57-minute album's first single, to be released this spring, "What Have You Done", features a duet with Keith Caputo of LIFE OF AGONY. The band filmed the video for "What Have You Done" on December 13, 2006 at Koko in London.
WITHIN TEMPTATION recently spent time in a Stockholm studio mixing with Stefan Glaumann, known for his work with RAMMSTEIN.
"The Heart of Everything" track listing: 01. The Howling 02. What Have You Done (feat. Keith Caputo) 03. Frozen 04. The Heart of Everything 05. All I Need 06. Our Solemn Hour 07. Hand of Sorrow 08. The Cross 09. Final Destination 10. Forgiven 11. The Truth Beneath the Rose 12. Stand My Ground *
* The album's U.S. version will contain "Stand My Ground" from the band's "The Silent Force" album, which is featured on the "Blood and Chocolate" soundtrack.
"MTV Unplugged: Korn", which was recorded December 9, 2006 at MTV's Times Square (New York City) studios, will air online February 10 and on TV February 17, according to MTV.com. The "Unplugged" CD will be released on February 20 in the U.S. The first single off the CD will be "Freak on a Leash", featuring EVANESCENCE singer Amy Lee.
KORN "Unplugged" track listing: 01. Thoughtless 02. Blind 03. Hollow Life 04. Freak On A Leash (feat. Amy Lee) 05. Falling Away 06. Creep (RADIOHEAD cover) 07. Love Song 08. Got The Life 09. Twisted Transistor 10. Dirty 11. Coming Undone 12. Make Me Bad/In Between Days (feat. Robert Smith of THE CURE) 13. No One's There 14. Throw Me Away
As previously reported, MEGADETH's new song, "Gears of War", is available for download ' . The track comes off the group's upcoming album, "United Abominations", tentatively due in March via Roadrunner Records.
EDGUY frontman Tobias Sammet has confirmed via his official web site that he is currently working on the third installment of his solo project AVANTASIA. "Again it's going to be a conceptual album with different musicians and singers," he writes.
"You ask why I am doing it? Because I can! Because I am dying to go for it! And because the time has come that I feel ready and strong enough to start something big, bombastic and monumental again! Believe me: you won't find any other man on the face of the earth who has got more work and stress right now — and who's yet as happy as I am. It's so exciting to see another dream of mine take shape."
Reunited Austrian black metallers ABIGOR will master their new album, "Fractal Possesion", in January for a spring release via End All Life Records. Check out a few audio samples at the band's ' .
Swedish metallers DREAMLAND have set "Eye for an Eye" (cover) as the title of their second album, due on January 26, 2007 via Dockyard 1. The CD was recorded at Joacim Cans' (HAMMERFALL) Moonshine Studio and Andy LaRocque's (KING DIAMOND) Los Angered Recording, where the album was also mixed. The group is promising that the effort will follow the melodic-yet-heavy style of their first release, "Future's Calling" (2005) "but will maybe also surprise the listener here 'n' there." Working titles set to appear on the CD include "Forever and Ever", "Into The Fire", "Shadows of the Night", "Carousel of Pain" and "Chosen Ones".
In other news, DREAMLAND has posted video clips of two songs from its appearance at HAMMERFALL's "Threshold" record-release party on October 21 at Trägårn in Gothenburg, Sweden. Check out the tracks "Breaking the Chains" (video) and the HAMMERFALL cover "Way of the Warrior" (video).
The cover artwork for ONE MAN ARMY AND THE UNDEAD QUARTET's upcoming sophomore album, "Error in Evolution", has been posted online at this location. Due on March 9, 2007 via Nuclear Blast Records, the follow-up to the band's debut, "21st Century Killing Machine", was recorded at Deadline studios with engineer Valle Adzic.
"Error in Evolution" final track listing: 01. Mine For The Taking 02. Knights In Satan's Service 03. Such A Sick Boy 04. The Supreme Butcher 05. The Sun Never Shines 06. See Them Burn 07. Nightmare In Ashes And Blood 08. He's back (The Man Behind The Mask) (ALICE COOPER cover) 09. Heaven Knows No Pain 10. Hail The King
ANATHEMA mastermind Daniel Cavanagh has issued the following update:
"This is the greatest record we have ever made. I know it in my heart. All we need do now is find the right engineer/producer and the right studio? And to remain focused. To this end, we have decided to hire a house in the country for the first month of next year to 'live' this record before we record. We will play every day and we will leave no stone unturned in pursuit of brilliance. Of a new way to express these feelings."
"Everything" track listing: 01. Thin Air (Ann Further) 02. Bricks (рабочее название) 03. Lightning Song 04. Sunlight 05. Get Off. Get Out. (рабочее название) 06. Angels Walk Among Us 07. Everything 08. A Simple Mistake 09. Voodoo (рабочее название) 10. No One Is Free (рабочее название) 11. Paradigm Shift 12. Hindsight
Italian "epic power metal" band DOMINE will release its fifth album, "Ancient Spirit Rising", on January 24. The track listing for the effort is as follows:
01. The Messenger 02. Tempest Calling 03. The Lady of Shalott 04. I Stand Alone 05. Ancient Spirit Rising 06. On the Wings of the Firebird 07. Another Time, Another Place, Another Space 08. Sky Rider 09. How the Mighty Have Fallen 10. Too Scared to Run (bonus track)
Frontman Buddy Lackey (a.k.a. Devon Graves; ex-PSYCHOTIC WALTZ) of DEADSOUL TRIBE has issued the following update:
"I changed my mind about making a double [DEADSOUL TRIBE] album. To me, it was an ambitious thought but probably a senseless business move. With all of today's downloading, it is becoming increasingly difficult for independent bands to keep running, selling enough to keep the bands in some sort of recording deal. Therefore it seems a bit risky to put out an album that is even more expensive, like a double disc set would inevitably have to be. Instead, I have taken what I consider the very best of the best between the two discs, and just put out the strongest record possible.
"The album will be called 'A Lullaby for the Devil. It will sound quite a bit different than the previous DEADSOUL albums, in that the songs are generally much faster-paced, and quite a bit more, progressive, quite a bit more aggressive, and quite a bit more metal. There are also some songs which would have been on the 'calmer' disc, which have a smokey, more experimental ambience. There is also a particularly noteworthy instrumental composed for lead flute. The album will have about 60 minutes running time, and should be released around April 2007 on InsideOut."
Italian metallers LABYRINTH have finalized the track listing for their sixth full-length album, "6 Days to Nowhere", due in February via Scarlet Records. The mastering took place at the famous Abbey Road Studios in London.
"6 Days to Nowhere" (view cover at StayMetal.net) track listing: 01. Crossroads 02. There Is A Way 03. Lost 04. Mother Earth 05. Waiting Tomorrow 06. Come Together (THE BEATLES cover) 07. Just One Day 08. What!!! 09. Coldness 10. Rusty Nail 11. Out Of Control 12. Wolves 'N' Lambs 13. Smoke And Dreams 14. Piece Of Time
Danish metallers MNEMIC have posted a new 30-second teaser clip for their upcoming album, "Passenger", which is due out on February 6, 2007 via Nuclear Blast Records. Check it out ' .
Commented the band: "This 30-second sound clip consists of the more extreme and diverse material of the album. It's still not enough to give you the whole picture, but basically the fast parts have become much faster and the technical more crazy..... and [by the way], this machine will break for nobody!"
Produced by FEAR FACTORY's Christian Olde Wolbers at Track Record Studios (KISS, MEGADETH, AEROSMITH) in Los Angeles, engineered by Warren Riker (DOWN, THE FUGEES), and mixed by fellow countryman Tue Madsen (HALFORD, THE HAUNTED) at Antfarm Studios in Denmark, "Passenger" features artwork by Asterik Studios (ANTHRAX, UNEARTH) plus guest vocal appearances by Jeff Walker (CARCASS, BRUJERIA) and Shane Embury (NAPALM DEATH, BRUJERIA). MNEMIC has also completed a video for "Meaningless" with Revolver Film director Patric Ullaeus.
The final track listing for "Passenger" is as follows: 01. Humanaut 02. In The Nothingness Black 03. Meaningless 04. Psykorgasm 05. Pigfuck 06. In Control 07. Electric I'd Hypocrisy 08. Stuck Here 09. What's Left 10. Shape Of The Formless 11. The Eye On Your Back 12. Zero Synchronized (Japanese Bonus Track)
Finnish melodic thrashers HEVEIN have been confirmed for the tenth-anniversary edition of Germany's Summer Breeze festival, set to take place August 16-18, 2007 in Dinkelsbühl. The festival billing is shaping up as follows (in alphabetical order):
AMON AMARTH THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER COMMUNIC DARK FUNERAL DIE APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER DORNENREICH EISBRECHER HEVEIN ILLDISPOSED IN EXTREMO MOONSORROW NECROPHOBIC TANZWUT
HEVEIN released its debut album, "Sound Over Matter", was released last year via Spinefarm Records. A video for the song "Last Drop of Innocence" was directed by HEVEIN drummer Alpo Oksaharju.
PAIN OF SALVATION's Daniel Gildenlöw (vocals/ guitar) and Johan Hallgren (guitar) will perform an exclusive acoustic show at the Rock Hard Greece party on January 21, 2007 at the Underworld Club in Athens, Greece. They will also present their new album, "Scarsick", which is due on January 22 via Inside Out. All attendees will get CDs, posters and various other giveaways. A DJ set from the editors of Rock Hard magazine will follow this event and many other surprises will take place. Stay tuned and check ' , as a huge competition will take place in which two winners will have dinner with the band the night before the show. Entrance to this event is 15 euros (beer included).
Italian metallers LABYRINTH have inked a deal with Scarlet Records. The band's sixth full-length album, "6 Days to Nowhere", includes a cover of THE BEATLES classic "Come Together" and is scheduled for release in February. The mastering took place at the famous Abbey Road Studios in London.
Madrid, Spain-based power metallers DARK MOOR have posted the cover artwork for their new album, "Tarot", at this location (artwork created by Derek Gores).
DARK MOOR recently signed a deal with Italy's Scarlet Records. The group's new album, "Tarot", is said to be "an intriguing" conceptual effort about the major arcanes of the tarot, covering in depth the meaning of each arcane and the esoteric halo that surrounds it. Production duties were once again handled by renowed producer Luigi Stefanini (RHAPSODY, LABIRYNTH, VISION DIVINE). The impressive artwork was created by Derek Gores (EDGUY, KAMELOT).
"Tarot" track listing: 01. The Magician 02. The Chariot 03. The Star 04. Wheel Of Fortune 05. The Emperor 06. Devil In The Tower 07. Death 08. Lovers 09. The Hanged Man 10. The Moon
Guitarist Thomas Youngblood of the American/Norwegian melodic metallers KAMELOT has issued the following update:
"I am just returning from another great week in Germany as we are laying down the finishing touches of the new album. I am dying to tell you the song ideas and title but I am sworn to secrecy. We are working on the art with several artists, including one amazing new one from France. Drums are done; Casey [Grillo] did a killer job again. This time he flew to Gate Studios in Wolfsburg to record. We are aiming for a release of spring 2007, followed by the first leg of Europe tour, then to Japan and another run in North America in August. New songs, new stage and every night a party with our extended family. Also we are excited about our first visits to Finland, Russia, Serbia, Romania, Hungary and Denmark.
Former BLIND GUARDIAN drummer Thomen Stauch, who was unable to perform any shows this year with his new bands, SAVAGE CIRCUS and COLDSEED, due to an unspecified medical/psychological condition, has issued the following update:
"Just want to say THANX A MILLION to all of you loyal SAVAGE CIRCUS and COLDSEED fans for supporting the complete situation during the last months! I'm proud to hear you all kicked asses during this time!!! Same to my SAVAGE CIRCUS and COLDSEED band members for believing in me and giving me that strength to go through all this!!! Thanks soooo much, brothers!
"The only thing I can say at the moment is: I'm in pretty good condition again and you all can expect Thomen behind the drums on our 2007 shows!!!"
SAVAGE CIRCUS's debut album, "Dreamland Manor", was released in North America in March via Century Media Records. COLDSEED — which also features in its ranks SOILWORK singer Björn "Speed" Strid — release its album "Completion Makes the Tragedy" in North America on September 16 via Nuclear Blast Records.
DIMENSION F3H, the Norwegian death metal band led by Morfeus (LIMBONIC ART), has lined up the following dates:
Jan. 13 - Gamle Posten - Porsgrunn, NOR Jun. 02 - Hub & Heuy metalfest - De Azijnfabriek - Roermond, NETH
DIMENSION F3H recently inked a deal with Dark Essence Records. "We are currently working on finishing our second album, entitled 'Does the Pain Excite You?', and if everything goes according to plans, we shall have that one ready by the end of January," the band said in a statement. "An early spring release should be in the works."
DIMENSION F3H's debut album, "Reaping the World Winds", was released in 2003 through Hammerheart Records. The CD was produced by Morfeus and mixed at Sweden's renowned Studio Fredman (IN FLAMES, DARK TRANQUILITY, DIMMU BORGIR).
Death metal legends MASTER have been added to the previously announced DERANGED European headlining tour, which is set to take place in May 2007. The lineup for the trek is now as follows: DERANGED, MASTER, RESURRECTED, DEMONICAL and EPICEDIUM. So far the following shows have been booked, with more to follow:
May 01 - Berlin, GER @ Magnet Club May 04 - Cottbus, GER @ Glad House
DERANGED recently announced the addition of bassist Tomas Ahlgren (ARSONIST, PANDEMONIUM) to the group's ranks. "The band has been jamming a while with an incomplete lineup, but it's now complete with Tomas Ahlgren," the group writes in a press release.
DERANGED current lineup:
Rikard Wermen - Drums Johan Axlesson - Guitar Tomas Ahlgren - Bass Martin Shonherr - Vocals
DERANGED recently changed the projected title of the follow-up to their sixth full-length album, "Obscenities in B Flat", to "The Red Light Murder Case" from the previously announced "213". Recording is set to commence "sometime early next year." Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Death Walks on High Heels", "Strip Nude for your Killer", "Watch Me When I Kill", "Too Young Too Die", "The Killer Wore Black Gloves", "So Sweet So Dead" and "The Red Light Murderess".
Finnish melodic power metallers THUNDERSTONE will release their fourth studio album, "Evolution 4.0", on March 14 (except in the U.S., where it will be issued later in the spring). According to the band, the new CD is "a milestone, bringing in more of the heavier stuff that 'Tools of Destruction' already hinted at, but still retaining the landmark melodies of THUNDERSTONE. That's why we thought the title 'Evolution 4.0' best represents where we now stand". Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Roots of Anger", "10,000 Ways", "Swirled", "Down with Me" and "The Source".
THUNDERSTONE is one of a dozen acts that will compete to represent Finland in next year's Eurovision Song Contest, set to take place May 2007 in Helsinki. The band's third full-length album, "Tools of Destruction", was released in the U.S. in June 2005 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD was mixed at Timo Tolkki's (STRATOVARIUS) Goldenworks studio with producer/guitarist Nino Laurenne.
The band's second album is some kind of showy work with lyrics in Russian and band's familiar trademark. Hard riffing, sparkling brilliant guitar-keyboard solos have been carefully packed for you to listen. Cover artwork as well as some lyrics were created by famous “sir designer” Leo Hao. Full booklet edition contains bonus track “Give Me Your Hand” (English version for ARIA’s “Day Ruku Mne”).
Jerry Lenin (ex-4 Tarakana, Lady's Man) became a new vocalist of russian prog-metal band MECHANICAL POET.
Message on the band's official site: "We have already recorded all vocals. Everything was done perfectly and we were more than satisfied with the results. So now we’re looking forward and going to start the mixing as soon as possible;)"
"CT4FC" track-listing: 1. Welcome To Creepy Tales 2. Urban Dreams 3. Bubble Bath 4. Spikyhead + Miremaid 5. Vesperghosts Of Milford Playhouse 6. A Rose For Michelle 7. Dolly 8. Lamplighter 9. The Afterguide 10. Aztec Zombies* 11. The Dead, The Living And The City 12. Hide And Seek With Cary Nage 13. Once Upon A Day 14. The Dead, The Living And The City - Russian version** 15. The Afterguide - Russian version** 16. Vesperghosts Of Milford Playhouse - Russian version**
In other news, the band will playing on the ProgPower Europe 2007. The festival will be held in the first weekend of October in Baarlo, a small village in the South of The Netherlands.
Musicians comments: "Together with 13 other bands you will be able to see 1 hour of Mechanical Poet. Other bands confirmed so far are JON OLIVA, HEAVEN'S CRY, CIRCUS MAXIMUS, MEYVN and DREAMSCAPE. Check the homepage of ProgPower for all the details about the festival and ticket sales, ' !
LUCYFIRE, the side project of TIAMAT mastermind Johan Edlund, is working on its second album, tentatively due in 2007. The follow-up to 2001's "This Dollar Saved My Life at Whitehorse" is being produced by TIAMAT drummer Lars Sköld. No further information is currently available.
The cover artwork for the forthcoming SIRENIA album, "Nine Destinies and a Downfall", has been posted online at this location. Due on February 26 via Nuclear Blast Records, the CD will contain the following track listing:
01. The Last Call 02. My Mind's Eye 03. One By One 04. Sundown 05. Absent Without Leave 06. The Other Side 07. Seven Keys And Nine Doors 08. Downfall 09. Glades Of Summer
Two absolutely new EPIDEMIA DVDs have hit the Moscow music stores yesterday: "10 Let Puti" (including a first half of a show which took place at DK "Gorbunova" lately last year as well as some bonus videos) and "Elfiiskaja Rukopis'" which features theatrical performance of this popular metal opera during the aformentioned show.
DVD1 tracklist: 1)Vrata Vremeni 2)Zvon Monet 3)Na Krayu Vremeni 4)Volya K Jizni 5)Jizn’ V Sumerkah 6)Ya Molilsya Na Tebya 7)Guitar’s solo 8)Snova Byt’ S Toboy 9)Feanor 10)Kol’co Vsevlast’ya 11)Vsadnik Iz L’da 12)Vernis’ 13)Cherniy Mag 14)Drum’s solo 15)Noviy Den’ 16)Beliy Sokol +BONUSES
DVD2 tracklist: 1)Zolotie Drakoni 2)Bitva Barabanshikov 3)Chas Ispitaniya 4)Rojdenniy Dlya Bitvi 5)Proydi Svoy Put’ 6)Krov’ El’fov 7)Na Poroge Ada 8)Vechniy Voitel’ 9)Romans O Sleze 10)Magiya I Mech’ 11)Oskolki Proshlogo 12)Epilog
SIRENIA, the Norwegian gothic metal band featuring former TRISTANIA guitarist/vocalist Morten Veland, has completed work on a video for the song "My Mind's Eye" from the group's new album, "Nine Destinies and a Downfall". The clip will be made available to all video outlets in early 2007.
As previously reported, Nuclear Blast Records has set a February 26 European release date (February 23 in Germany) for "Nine Destinies and a Downfall". The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. The Last Call 02. My Mind's Eye 03. One By One 04. Sundown 05. Absent Without Leave 06. The Other Side 07. Seven Keys And Nine Doors 08. Downfall 09. Glades Of Summer
Finnish melodic death/thrash metallers MORS PRINCIPIUM EST have parted ways with guitarist and main songwriter Jori Haukio. According to the group, Jori "decided to leave the band after seven years and three albums" because "he felt that MORS PRINCIPIUM EST was not his thing anymore." The group has already acquired a session guitarist/replacement in the form of friend Karri Kuisma.
MORS PRINCIPIUM EST's third album, "Liberation = Termination", is due in early 2007 via Listenable Records. The follow-up to "The Unborn" was recorded at Astia Studio in Finland and was mastered at Imperial Mastering in Concord, California.
"Liberation = Termination" track listing: 01. Orsus 02. The Oppressed Will Rise 03. The Animal Within 04. Finality 05. Cleansing Rain 06. Forgotten 07. Sinners Defeat 08. The Distance Between 09. It Is Done 10. Terminal Liberation 11. Lost Beyond Retrieval
Swedish melodic metallers NOSTRADAMEUS will release their fifth album, "Pathway", on January 26. The CD will feature the following track listing (in no particular order):
01. Wall of Anger 02. No Trace of Madness 03. Not Only Women Bleed 04. MDCC Pt. 1 05. MDCC Pt. 2 06. The Untouchebles 07. Death by My Side 08. Until the End 09. Demon Voices 10. Welcome to Living 11. P.I.R
Liechtenstein-based romantic gothic metal band WELTENBRAND was in Düsseldorf, Germany last week to film a new video. Check out photos from the shoot ' .
AMORPHIS, KOTIPELTO, NORTHER and THUNDERSTONE are among the featured artists on the soundtrack to the new Finnish film "V2: Jäätynyt Enkeli" (cover), due in Finland on January 5 via King Foo Entertainment. The complete track listing is as follows:
01. NORTHER - "Frozen Angel" 02. KOTITEOLLISUUS - "Pullon Henki" 03. TAROT - "Ashes To The Stars" 04. BLAKE - "Black And Cold" 05. THUNDERSTONE - "10.000 Ways" 06. AMORPHIS - "House Of Sleep" 07. TURMION KÄTILÖT - "Pirun Nyrkki" 08. CHARON - "Ride On Tears" 09. KIUAS - "Bleeding Strings" 10. PRIVATE LINE - "Sound Advice" 11. TIMO RAUTIAINEN - "Hiljaisen Talven Lapsi" 12. MANA MANA - "Liisa" 13. VENDETTA - "Search In The Darkness" 14. THE SCOURGER - "Maximum Intensity" 15. KOTIPELTO - "Sleep Well"
"V2: Jäätynyt Enkeli" – это сиквел детективного триллера Aleksi Mäkelä "V2: Jäätynyt Enkeli", который добился неплохого успеха в Финляндии несколоко лет назад.
According to STRATOVARIUS bassist Lauri Porra, the Aleksi Mäkelä movie "V2: Jäätynyt Enkeli" is "a private-detective thriller and a sequel to the movie 'Vares' which was a very succesful movie in Finland a couple of years ago. This is the first time I have written a score to a movie, which has been a longtime dream of mine."
Finnish epic/pagan metallers MOONSORROW have been confirmed for next year's installment of the Summer Breeze festival, set to take place August 16-18, 2007 in Dinkelsbühl, Germany. Also scheduled to appear are AMON AMARTH, IN EXTREMO, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER and DIE APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER.
As previousky reported, Spinefarm Records has revealed the track listing for the new album from MOONSORROW, entitled "V: Hävitetty". It is as follows:
01. Jäästä syntynyt varjojen virta 02. Tuleen ajettu maa
The cover artwork for "V: Hävitetty" can be viewed here (artwork created by Travis Smith). The CD is scheduled for release on January 10, 2007 via Spinefarm Records.
MOONSORROW has been confirmed for next year's installment of the Wacken Open Air festival, set to take place August 2-4, 2007 in Wacken, Germany. They are also scheduled to appear at the Arnhem Metal Meeting on Saturday, December 9 at Musis Sacrum in Arnhem, Holland.
MOONSORROW's most recent CD, "Verisäkeet", was issued last year via Spikefarm.
After three albums produced by Norwegian producer Terje Refsnes, French power metallers NIGHTMARE are ready for a new challenge. The recording of the group's sixth studio album will start May 7, 2007 at Studio Fredman in Gothenburg, Sweden with producer Fredrik Nordström (DIMMU BORGIR, IN FLAMES, HAMMERFALL).
NIGHTMARE's follow-up to 2005's "The Dominion Gate" will be released by Sweden's Regain Records in the fall of 2007, followed by full European and U.S tours. The band has also joined forces with an international booking agent, MDM Concerts in Germany (in cooperation with Blue Steel Agency).
Guitarist/vocalist Anders Lundemark of the Danish extreme metallers KONKHRA has issued the following update:
"We have recorded two new songs and we will be starting three more next week. We should be halfway [done with the material for the band's sixth album] around Christmas; we're in no hurry because we want to make sure it comes out the best way it possibly can.
"The songs are typical KONKHRA — they're metal. They're uncompromising. And by the way: [new drummer] Mads [Lauridsen] kicks humongous ass. Can't wait to let you all know what we sound like now. We have never sounded this brutal before."
A new KONKHRA instrumental demo track, which has the working title "Killswitch One", has been posted online at the band's ' .
KONKHRA released their latest CD, "Reality Check", in May 2003 through Code666 Records. The album was recorded at guitarist/vocalist Anders Lundemark's own Starstruck Studio and was the group's first since their split with longtime label Diehard Records.
Finnish melodic death/doom metallers SWALLOW THE SUN shot a video for the song "Don't Fall Asleep" last weekend. It was produced by Medialouhos and directed by Antti Hyyrynen. The track comes off the group's forthcoming third album, "Hope", due on February 7, 2007 release via Spinefarm Records. Audio samples of three songs from the CD — "Hope", "These Hours of Despair" and "Too Cold for Tears" — are available ' .
Sweden's PAIN OF SALVATION has posted the following update on its official web site:
"The long-awaited 'Scarsick' album is now done, and is expected to hit the stores late January 2007, just a few weeks before the European tour that will start mid-February. The album is (of course) a concept album, and clocks in at 67 minutes, consisting of the following tracks:
01. Scarsick 02. Spitfall 03. Cribcaged 04. America 05. Disco Queen 06. Kingdom of Loss 07. Mrs Modern Mother Mary 08. Idiocracy 09. Flame to the Moth 10. Enter Rain
"The cover artwork and track titles have already spawned a lot of discussions in forums and lists around the net regarding the possibility that 'Scarsick' might actually be 'The Perfect Element' part II in disguise. Interviews with the band will undoubtedly start to pop up in magazines and online the following months, so keep your eyes and ears open...
"Now that 'Scarsick' is finished, the band will focus on finding a new bass player. The first auditions are already scheduled for December, but the quest will be 'as long as it takes to find the right guy.' Applications have been pouring in from all around the world, despite the band's request for a bassist living in Sweden. Thus, focus will be on the 'domestic' applications. But this also means that the field is still open, in case you are hesitating.
"The 'Scarsick' tour is taking shape. The European tour will be taking place in February/March 2007. The band says that more shows are planned for 2007 in other parts of the world, but nothing is 100% confirmed yet."
PAIN OF SALVATION tour dates: Feb. 17 - Oslo, Norway @ John Dee Feb. 18 - Gothenburg, Sweden @ Musikens Hus Feb. 20 - Warsaw, Poland @ Progresja Feb. 21 - Krakow, Poland @ Klub Studio Feb. 22 - Budapest, Hungary @ Schiff A38 Feb. 23 - Wien, Austria @ Planet Music Feb. 25 - Treviso, Italy @ New Age Feb. 26 - Rome, Italy @ Alpheus Feb. 27 - Milan, Italy @ Rolling Stone Mar. 01 - Pratteln, Switzerland @ Z7 Mar. 02 - Amsterdam, Holland @ Paradiso Mar. 03 - Paris, France @ Elysee Monmartre Mar. 04 - Vosselaar, Belgium @ Biebob Mar. 06 - Augsburg, Germany @ Spectrum Mar. 07 - Aschaffenburg, Germany @ ColosSaal Mar. 08 - Bochum, Germany @ Zeche Mar. 10 - Copenhagen, Denmark @ The Rock
German power metallers RAGE filmed their show in St. Petersburg, Russia earlier in the year in front of 15,000 fans for an upcoming live DVD, tentatively due on February 23, 2007 via Nuclear Blast. Entitled "Full Moon in St. Petersburg" (cover), the double DVD will consist of the following: DVD 1 will contain the complete concert in St. Petersburg, Russia, including highlights from the group's last album, "Speak of the Dead", along with several oldies and other fan favorites. The audio will be available in 5.1 Surround Sound or in normal stereo sound. According to a posting on the group's web site, "The concert is a unique adventure with an exceptional light show, marking a great contrast to the last DVD, which was recorded in an intimate atmosphere at the Zeche Bochum." Additionally, DVD1 will include the band's last two promotional videos, Brazilian TV footage, and RAGE perfoming live at the "Masters of Rock" festival 2006 in Tschechien.
Meanwhile, DVD2 will consist out of comprehensive bonus material, including a full-length documentary shot on the band's last Russian tour, a detailed documentary recorded on the last European tour, featuring insight into the band's life "on the road" and backstage. In addition, each member of the band has contributed personal footage, such as guitarist Victor Smolski's involvement in car racing and his solo appearances; frontman Peavy Wagner discussing his ice age bone collection and his newest hobby, the casting of skulls; and drummer Mike Terrana conducting a short drum workshop and playing his latest drum solo.
The first edition will be available in a special steelbook with two DVDs and an audio CD, but will also be available as a separate DVD or audio CD. The artwork was once again designed by Anthony Clarkson, who was responsible for the cover of the "Speak of the Dead" album.
Nuclear Blast Records has set a February 6, 2007 North American release date for the new THERION album, entitled "Gothic Kabbalah". The CD was recorded and mixed in Stockholm by Stefan Glaumann (RAMMSTEIN, EVERGREY, EUROPE) and features Swedish multi-instrumentalist Snowy Shaw (MERCYFUL FATE, KING DIAMOND, DREAM EVIL) sharing the vocal duties with Mats Levén (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, KRUX, AT VANCE) and two female singers — Katarina Lilja on solo and choral vocals; and Hannah Holgersson on solo, choral, and soprano vocals.
"Gothic Kabbalah" track listing:
CD 1: 01. Der Mitternachtlöwe 02. The Gothic Kabbalah 03. The Perrennial Sophia 04. Wisdom And The Cage 05. Son Of The Staves Of Time 06. Tuna 1613 07. Trul 08. Close Up The Streams
CD 2: 01. Wand Of Abaris 02. Three Treasures 03. The Path To Arcady 04. TOF - The Trinity 05. Chain Of Minerva 06. The Falling Stone 07. Adulruna Rediviva
Metal-Temple.com / Rock Hard writer Orpheus Spiliotopoulos recently conducted an in-depth interview with SAVATAGE mastermind Jon Oliva. An excerpt from the chat follows:
Q: I'd like to ask you why you left SPV Records and how [much] better do you feel it is with AFM Records now?
Jon Oliva: "The SPV people are very nice people but I think what happened there is the top people there who are people whose acts we're not really associated with... You know, we're kind of pissy about the whole SAVATAGE thing. When I did my record, they just took it and dropped it out, they didn't do anything to promote it or anything at all. A lot of kids were complaining that they couldn't find it. So I was like instead of doing this, I'll take it to a smaller label, the guys from AFM and I like those people; I got to hang out with them already when I was writing songs for Zach's [Stevens; CIRCLE II CIRCLE singer] record. I got to meet them back then, I got to talk to them and we had a relationship with them for a year before we made a deal. They actually paid me on time [laughs]! I like their attitude. The people there are all young and hungry to make a name for themselves and they treat the bands with respect! I wasn't feeling that with SPV. I was feeling like a little fish in a big ocean. They have so many bands and I was just getting ignored because it wasn't SAVATAGE and all they cared about was SAVATAGE. I was like, 'Well, I can't give you SAVATAGE but here I'll give you this which would have been the next SAVATAGE album.' The first JON OLIVA'S PAIN record was the next SAVATAGE record. The only difference is that it's a different name and different people playing the material but the material would have been the next SAVATAGE record so... They just didn't get that, they just didn't understand."
Q: Wow! But by saying that, Jon, you do know that there's a lot of your fans, a lot of SAVATAGE fans who wonder what's going on with SAVATAGE...
Jon Oliva: "You know, I'm glad you asked that because I can put that whole thing to rest. There's nothing going on. The situation is very simple. You've got the TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA which is a multi-platinum, selling 30,000 tickets a night, band that is actually SAVATAGE with a different name and different singers, that has become successful. And you've got SAVATAGE which has a loyal core audience that is a lot smaller. You're talking worldwide about maybe a couple hundred thousand people where you know, I'm sitting here, talking to you on the phone, looking at my wall and I've got five platinum albums and not one of them says SAVATAGE. And that's not saying anything bad about SAVATAGE. We all loved SAVATAGE but we gave SAVATAGE its chance to get to the level where it was supposed to get to and it never did, for whatever reasons, you know — we had tragedies, everything like that. But to me SAVATAGE was never SAVATAGE after Criss died. All these other lineups of the band that people heard from 'Edge Of Thorns' (1993, Atlantic Records) on, to me was more like TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA actually than SAVATAGE. 'Dead Winter Dead' (1995, Atlantic Records), 'Handful Of Rain' (1994, Atlantic Records), 'The Wake Of Magellan' (1998, Atlantic Records)... those were the albums that spawned the TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA. Because we knew we had that sound, especially with 'Christmas Eve Sarajevo 12-24' and going in SAVATAGE we were getting no sales and no interest! People don't understand that whether they want to accept it or not, it is a business. I have mouths to feed, I have a family, I have bills just like everybody else and it's kind of asinine for people to sit there and argue with me about why I'm not doing SAVATAGE when SAVATAGE never made us any money. I mean we spent far more money of our own, keeping the band together and putting the band on the road than we ever earned. And we did that for a long time! A lot of bands would have cashed it in after 3-4 years of not making any money. We kept the band together for 15-20 years without making any money! And it just got to the point where it was like well, what do you do? Do you go play a club in Greece for 2,000 people or do you play Madison Square Garden in New York for 25,000 people?"
Veteran Florida-based extreme metallers MALEVOLENT CREATION have issued the following update:
"The band has completed the writing and pre-production demos for 13 songs and will begin the recording of their tenth full-length album, 'Doomsday X', in the coming weeks of November. We're very happy with the direction the music has taken for this new album with songwriting credits by each of the bandmembers, and each song having its own identity but retaining the classic MALEVOLENT CREATION sound. It is truly amazing to have everyone writing for this album and brings a lot of new ideas to the songs. Fear not, each song is extremely brutal and covers a lot of territory as far as extreme metal is concerned.
"The album's recording and touring lineup is: Jon Rubin - Guitars Phil Fasciana - Guitars Dave Culross - Drums Jason Blachowicz - Bass Brett Hoffmann - Vocals
German metal webzine www.sounds2move.de is currently premiering audio samples from the upcoming ELIS album, "Griefshire", ' . Also available at the same location is an exclusive interview (in German) with ELIS bassist Tom Saxer.
"Griefshire" is scheduled for release in Europe on November 24 via Napalm Records (January 16 in the U.S.).
The recordings for "Griefshire" were completed prior to the death of ELIS' lead singer, Sabine Dünser, who suffered a cerebral hemorrhage on July 7 during rehearsal and passed away the following day in hospital. The Liechtenstein-based gothic metal group has since announced that it will continue with a new vocalist and is currently accepting submissions from female singers. The requirements are: "Versatile and dynamic voice. It doesn't matter if it's trained or not; you only have to carry a tune. Good English and German articulation. A professional attitude, self-confidence, charisma, good looking and an awesome stage performance are also an advantage as much as experience in songwriting."
"Griefshire" (view cover here) track listing: 01. Tales from Heaven or Hell 02. Die Stadt 03. Show Me the Way 04. Brothers 05. Seit Dem Anbeginn Der Zeit 06. Remember the Promise 07. Phoenix from the Ashes 08. How Long 09. Innocent Hearts 10. Forgotten Love 11. The Burning 12. A New Decade 13. Heaven and Hell (bonus track on digipack)
DREAM THEATER keyboardist Jordan Rudess will appear as a special guest at a battle of the Italian DREAM THEATER cover bands PROGENY (Milan) and YTSEJAMKR (Crotone). Organized by Italian Dreamers, the official Italian DREAM THEATER Fan Club, the event will be held at Teatro in Rimini on November 25, and Jordan will act as "president of the deciding jury for the contest."
ARCH ENEMY frontwoman Angela Gossow has laid down guest vocals in the track "Your Shadow Moves Faster Than Mine" on the new CD from Cologne, Germany-based old-school grind band WORLD DOWNFALL, entitled "Beyond Salvation". Check it out ' . Gossow and WORLD DOWNFALL also teamed up to record a TERRORIZER cover, "Corporation Pull In".
Finnish gothic rock sensation ENTWINE's second single, "Chameleon Halo", from the band's fifth studio album, "Fatal Design", has entered the national chart in the group's home country at position No. 15. View the whole chart ' . The single contains the title cut backed with an unreleased song called "In Delight", an outtake from the "Fatal Design" sessions.
As previously reported, ENTWINE has posted the video for its song "Surrender" ' . The clip was shot with director Markus Nieminen of Routafilmi AB.
Chicago dark metal act NOVEMBERS DOOM have finalized the dates for their upcoming tour of Europe with labelmates AGALLOCH that begins on November 17 in The Netherlands. They are as follows:
In other news, the band has set a February 20, 2007 release date of their forthcoming album, "The Novella Reservoir", for The End Records. The artwork and an mp3 of the song "Drown the Inland Mere" can be found at www.thenovellareservoir.com.
"The Novella Reservoir" was recorded with Chris Djuricic, mixed by Dan Swanö (EDGE OF SANITY, BLOODBATH) and mastered by James Murphy (TESTAMENT, DEATH) and is the follow-up to 2005's "The Pale Haunt Departure".
About the album, singer Paul Kuhr says, "The only way to describe 'The Novella Reservoir' is natural progression. With each CD we release, we evolve in style. This time, we took a step forward in speed and aggression, while maintaining the same sound we've had over all six CDs. 'The Pale Haunt Departure' was so well received, we knew writing the follow up would be a challenge, and I feel we've successfully created a worthy release."
"The Novella Reservoir" track listing: 01. Rain 02. The Novella Reservoir 03. Drown the Inland Mere 04. Twilight Innocence 05. The Voice of Failure 06. They Were Left to Die 07. Dominate the Human Strain 08. Leaving This
TESTAMENT singer Chuck Billy, former EXODUS vocalist Steve "Zetro" Souza have joined forces in a brand new project called DUBLIN DEATH PATROL (DDP). The band, which also features such other San Francisco Bay Area notables as Phil Demmel (guitar; MACHINE HEAD, ex-VIO-LENCE) and Willy Langenhuizen (bass; RAMPAGE, LAAZ ROCKIT), is currently in the studio putting the finishing touches on its debut album, due in 2007. The group's complete lineup is as follows:
Chuck Billy (TESTAMENT, RAMPAGE, GUILT) - Vocals Steve "Zetro" Souza (LEGACY, EXODUS) - Vocals Andy Billy (SACRED DOG, RAMPAGE, GUILT) - Guitar Greg Bustamante (RAMPAGE) - Guitar Steve Robello (OUT OF CONTROL) - Guitar Phil Demmel (MACHINE HEAD, VIO-LENCE, DEATH PENALTY, METAL WARRIOR) - Guitar Willy Langenhuizen (RAMPAGE, LAAZ ROCKIT) - Bass John Souza - Bass Danny Cunningham - Drums
Standing (left to right): Langenhuizen, Andy Billy, Bustamante, Robello, Cunningham; Kneeling (left to right): Steve Souza, Chuck Billy
TYPE O NEGATIVE has set "Dead Again" as the title of its new album, tentatively due in early 2007 via SPV Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Life Is Killing Me", which will include an appearance by LYCIA vocalist Tara VanFlower (MySpace page), is currently being mixed.
Bulgarian doom/death metal band DEMENZIA has just released its debut album, "Different Seasons", via IMSB/Nox Studio. "Different Seasons" follows two self-released demos — "A.D. 542" and "Demenzia" — and continues the band's penchant for "combining extreme death metal riffs with slower atmospheric passages," according to a press release. The concept of "Different Seasons" is based upon Stephen King's famous novel of the same name. The CD was recorded at V.I.B. Depression Studio between September 2005 and June 2006 and was produced by the band's guitarist/vocalist Valdemar.
"Different Seasons" track listing: 01. Hollow 02. Road to the Sin 03. Death Expectatin 04. My Goddess 05. Mystical Windmill 06. Pain 07. Candles in the Wind 08. Ephemeral Failure 09. Monuments of a Dead Past 10. For my Empty Soul 11. Hope... for Eternal Spring (instrumental) 12. My Goddess (Dark Dub Remix)
SONATA ARCTICA's "best of" collection, entitled "The Collection 1999-2006", will be streamed online in its entirety this Friday, November 10 at www.heavylaw.com. In addition to material from the band's studio albums, the CD includes new versions of the songs "My Land" and "Replica", both of which originally appeared on the group's 1999 debut, "Ecliptica".
"The Collection 1999-2006" (view cover here) track listing: 01. The Ruins of My Life 02. 8th Commandment 03. Don't Say A Word 04. Victoria's Secret 05. Tallulah 06. Wolf & Raven 07. Black Sheep 08. Broken 09. Kingdom for a Heart 10. FullMoon 11. My Land (2006 re-make) 12. The Cage 13. Last Drop Falls 14. UnOpened 15. San Sebastian (Revisited) 16. Ain't Your Fairytale 17. Replica (2006 re-make) 18. Wolf & Raven (promotional video) 19. The Cage (live at Tavastia) 20. Kingdom for a Heart (live at Tavastia)
"The Collection 1999-2006" is scheduled for release on November 15 via Spinefarm.
AFM Records has announced plans to re-release remastered versions of the TANKARD albums "Disco Destroyer" and "Kings of Beer". Each album will contain a bonus track — a cover version of a very well-known metal act. More information will be made available soon.
SIRENIA , the Norwegian gothic metal band featuring former TRISTANIA guitarist/vocalist Morten Veland, has finalized the track listing for its new album, "Nine Destinies and a Downfall", due in early 2007 via Nuclear Blast Records. It is as follows:
01. The Last Call 02. My Mind's Eye 03. One By One 04. Sundown 05. Absent Without Leave 06. The Other Side 07. Seven Keys And Nine Doors 08. Downfall 09. Glades Of Summer
SIRENIA travelled to Serbia and Montenegro last month to film music videos for the tracks "My Mind's Eye" and "The Other Side".
"Nine Destinies and a Downfall" was recorded at Jailhouse studios in Norway with engineer Hans Eidsgard and Soundsuite studios in France with Terje Refsnes. The CD was mixed and mastered at Antfarm studios in Aarhus, Denmark with Tue Madsen. The cover artwork will be designed by Anthony Clarkson.
Swedish "gothic metallers" BESEECH, who recently announced their decision to split up after over 15 years in the business, will play their final gig on December 15 at Trägårn in their hometown of Borås, Sweden. The band has also revealed plans to release a DVD in early 2007 containing a remixed live show (with 5.1 Surround Sound) and "tons of material" from various concerts, studio sessions, backstage footage and "other crazy things that happen on tour."
Punk bands NICOTINE (Japan) and SUN EATS HOURS (Italy) have teamed up to record a split album, "Metal Addiction", featuring covers of heavy metal classics.
Due on November 15, "Metal Addiction" (cover) will contain the following track listing: 01. It's My Life (BON JOVI) - NICOTINE 02. I Was Made For Loving You (KISS) - NICOTINE 03. Future World (HELLOWEEN) - NICOTINE 04. I Remember You (SKID ROW) - NICOTINE 05. Valhalla (BLIND GUARDIAN) - NICOTINE 06. The Final Countdown (EUROPE) - NICOTINE 07. Rain (THE CULT) - SUN EATS HOURS 08. Enter Sandman (METALLICA) - SUN EATS HOURS 09. Kickstart My Heart (MÖTLEY CRÜE) - SUN EATS HOURS 10. Digging The Grave (FAITH NO MORE) - SUN EATS HOURS 11. Ace Of Spades (MOTÖRHEAD) - SUN EATS HOURS 12. You Shook Me All Night Long (AC/DC) - SUN EATS HOURS
Audio samples of all 12 tracks are available ' .
In other news, SUN EATS HOURS has just filmed a video for its cover of THE CULT's "Rain".
Sweden's LAKE OF TEARS will soon enter the studio to record its new album, "Moons and Mushrooms". Singer/guitar player Daniel Brennare states: "We have started the pre-production of the recording. Though we still have 2-3 more songs to get in order. And in a couple of weeks we will start the final recordings."
"Moons and Mushrooms" is scheduled for release in the spring of 2007.
Swedish thrashers THE HAUNTED have launched their own YouTube video channel at this location.
THE HAUNTED's video for the song "The Flood" has been posted online at this location. The clip was directed by Roger Johansson (ARCH ENEMY, HAMMERFALL, SOILWORK) in Sweden. The track comes off the new THE HAUNTED album, "The Dead Eye", which came out on Oct. 31 via Century Media Records. A "making of" feature for the "The Flood" video can be viewed here.
Edenbridge have signed a world wide deal with Napalm Records and are proud to announce to be part of the Napalm Records family from now on. "Napalm Records have been doing a brilliant job for their bands. Since last year they have been making a great effort to sign us and therefore we are extremely happy to work together with them for the next years to bring Edenbridge to the next level together. It´s nice to see again, that a label has one hundred percent trust and therefore invests into a band."
Thank you also to all the other labels who were making offers to the band and showed their big interest, and to Massacre Records for the cooperation in the past years. The first studio album on Napalm records will be released in Spring 2008, production will approximately start in Autumn 2007. 4 songs are already written and Edenbridge will work with a renowned Czech orchstra for the first time in their career.
On January 30, 2007 Napalm Records will release the actual album "The Grand Design" in the USA and Canada
Guitarist Jyri Vahvanen of the Finnish "fantasy metal" band BATTLELORE has posted the following message on the band's official web site:
"BATTLELORE's fourth album, titled 'Evernight', is almost mixed and ready for mastering at Finnvox Studios. The new album includes ten tracks of pure Tolkien metal with more bombastic and epic songs than before. And, as usual, there's going to be a limited edition digipack CD with bonus material. If everything goes well, we can expect the album in February/March 2007."
SINNER — the German band featuring PRIMAL FEAR bassist Mat Sinner, his FEAR bandmate Tom Naumann (guitars), Frank Rössler (keyboards), and former PRIMAL FEAR drummer Klaus Sperling — has announced the addition of second guitarist Christof Leim of THE TRACEELORDS to the group's ranks.
Commented the band: "Welcome, Christof. We're proud to have you on board and let's have some metal and fun in the future!"
Leim performed with SINNER during the band's October 7 appearance in Reichenbach, Germany alongside PRIMAL FEAR, CHINCHILLA and TARGA.
SINNER is currently at Leon studio near Stuttgart with the engineering team of Achim Köhler and Samson Geiger mixing its new album, entitled "Mask of Sanity", for a January 19, 2007 release through MTM Music.
"Mask of Sanity" track listing: 01. The Other Side 02. Diary of Evil 03. Badlands 04. Black 05. Thunder Roar 06. The Sign 07. Revenge 08. Under the Gun 09. Can't Stand the Heat 10. No Return 11. Last Man Standing
MOONSPELL was named "Best Portuguese Act" at MTV's 13th annual European Music Awards, which were held earlier tonight (Thursday, Nov. 2) in Copenhagen, Denmark. This is the first time ever a metal band has won that particular award in Europe. The group has since issued the following statement:
"We won MTV Euro awards for best Portuguese act and wish to dedicate it to all people around the world who voted for us and helped MOONSPELL to become a stronger band and Portuguese metal more known to the abroad scene! Thank you a million moons!!!"
The cover artwork for CEREMONIUM's upcoming double discography CD, "Where Roses were Planted Thorns Grow", has been posted online at this location. "Although it's coming along nicely, it is by no means finished," the band writes. "The artist, Peter Sallai, will be adding many more ideas, like angels and demons resonating through the forest scenario."
According to the group, "The long-delayed disc will not be released through Extreem Music as previously reported. Instead, the double disc will see the light of day through Japanese label Weird Truth Productions in January 2007. Additionally the special release will include the long out-of-print jewels 'No Longer Silent', 'Into the Autumn Shade' and many previously unreleased material plus CD-ROM live stuff, just the way they were originally presented."
The Swiss film "Anuk - Der Weg Des Kriegers" ("Anuk - The Path of the Warrior"), starring KROKUS frontman Marc Storace and ex-WARLOCK singer Doro Pesch, will be officially released in Switzerland on November 16. Storace, Pesch and director Luke Gasser recorded a song for the soundtrack called "On My Own" which was written specially for the film by Storace and Gasser. The movie's official trailer can be viewed ' .
ESSENCE OF SORROW, the Finnish band led by DIVINEFIRE guitarist Jani Stefanovic, will release its debut album, "Reflections of the Obscure", on December 21 in Japan through King Records and on January 10 in Europe via Rivel Records. The band, initially a solo project, began to take shape during the spring of 2005 in Gothenburg, Sweden when Stefanovic started composing intricate music that expressed various feelings through strong melancholic melodies. As time passed, Jani began to expand his vision by transforming his solo project into a full-fledged band.
"Reflections of the Obscure" features a special guest appearance by Mats Levén (THERION, AT VANCE, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN) and ex-SONATA ARCTICA keyboardist Mikko Härkin, who has since joined the group as a permanent member.
ESSENCE OF SORROW lineup: Jani Stefanovic (DIVINEFIRE, MISERATION) - Guitar Christian Palin (RANDOM EYES) - Vocals Mikko Härkin (WINGDOM, ex-SONATA ARCTICA) - Keyboards Timo Kuusjärvi (RANDOM EYES) - Guitar Rolf Pilve (DREAMTALE) - Drums
Special guests: Mats Levén (THERION, AT VANCE, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN) Andreas Olsson (DIVINEFIRE, NARNIA) Patrik Gardberg (AMMOTRACK) Plec (UNMOORED)
"Reflections of the Obscure" track listing: 01. Face of Death 02. Mind Control 03. The Essence of Sorrow 04. Hollow 05. Supreme Oppression 06. Ashes 07. The Mirror 08. Trail of Tears 09. Come Serenity 10. Embraced (bonus track)
The complete details have been revealed for SENTENCED's upcoming "Buried Alive" DVD, which captures the Finnish band's final performance in their hometown of Oulu, Finland on October 1, 2005. Directed by Mika Ronkainen of Klaffi Productions, the two-disc set features the entire concert, including a special guest appearance by former SENTENCED vocalist Taneli Jarva.
"Buried Alive" DVD (view artwork at this location) track listing:
DVD1:"The Farewell Performance": 01. Intro 02. Where Waters Fall Frozen 03. May Today Become The Day 04. Neverlasting 05. Bleed 06. The Rain Comes Falling Down 07. Everfrost 08. Sun Won't Shine 09. Dead Moon Rising 10. Despair-Ridden Hearts 11. The Suicider / Excuse Me While I Kill Myself (medley) 12. The War Ain't Over* 13. Nepenthe* 14. Northern Lights* 15. The Way I Wanna Go* 16. Dance On The Graves* 17. Noose 18. Aika Multaa Muistot (Everything Is Nothing) 19. Farewell 20. No One There 21. Drown Together 22. Cross My Heart And Hope To Die 23. Brief Is The Light 24. Vengeance Is Mine 25. End Of The Road
* w/ Taneli Jarva
DVD2:
* Animated photo gallery * Discography * Photo Session * Video Session * Signing Session * Festival Tour * Club Tour * 7 Music Videos - Nepenthe - Bleed - Noose - The Suicider - Killing Me Killing You - No One There - Everfrost * Brand New Video: "Despair-Ridden Hearts" * Band Interviews
"Buried Alive" release dates:
Germany / Austria / Switzerland / Benelux: November 24, 2006 U.K. / Spain / Denmark / Norway / France / Rest Of Europe: November 27, 2006. Finland / Sweden / Hungary: November 29, 2006 Italy: December 1, 2006 USA: January 23, 2007
Metal Mind Productions has set a November 6 release date for the new album from Polish thrashers HORRORSCOPE, entitled "Evoking Demons". The recording sessions took place in May and June at ZED studio in Olkusz (south of Poland). According to a press release, the follow-up to "The Crushing Design" "pushes the emphasis of the band's music towards the elements that have insofar been exclusively reserved for the Bay Area elite. The album is saturated with extreme energy, both instrumentally and semantically. This sharp poisonous release should satisfy even the most discriminating lovers of metal havoc."
"Evoking Demons" track listing: 01. New Insignia (intro) 02. Mephisto 03. Traumatic Legacy 04. The Inner Pride 05. Branded 06. The Tide 07. Headhunters 08. Light The Fuse 09. The Request 10. Killers Breeding 11. Evil
JACOBS DREAM is continuing work on the material for the follow-up to 2005's "Drama of the Ages", entitled "Dominion of Darkness". This will be the group's fourth release on Metal Blade Records and the second release with new vocalist Chaz Bond. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Demon World", "Embraced by Sorrow", "Awaken the Man", "End of Days", "Death before Dishonor", "Violent Kingdom" and "Can't Break the Fall"
As part of DVD promotion (and CD whenever possible) the METAL MIND label from Poland decided to create a profile on ' . They will upload there one track from all their current & future DVDs. At this very moment there are 5 videos available:
Anathema - Fragile Dreams (live) from A Moment in Time DVD Pendragon - As Good As Gold (live) from A Now Everybody To The Stage DVD Galahad - Termination (live) from Resonance - Live In Poland DVD Landmarq - Timeline (live) from Resonance - Live in Poland DVD Darzamat - The Burning Times (promo video) from Transkarpatia CD
Swedish multi-instrumentalist Snowy Shaw (MERCYFUL FATE, KING DIAMOND, DREAM EVIL) has been named the new singer in THERION. The group's new album, "Gothic Kabbalah", was recorded and mixed in Stockholm by Stefan Glaumann (RAMMSTEIN, EVERGREY, EUROPE) will be released in January 2007 via Nuclear Blast Records. Snowy shares the vocal duties with Mats Levén (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, KRUX, AT VANCE) and two female singers. A full-blown European tour with GRAVE DIGGER and SABATON kicks off mid-January.
Finnish symphonic power metallers EXCALION have posted the cover artwork for their new album, "Waterlines", at this location. The follow-up to 2005's "Primal Exhale" was recorded and mixed at Watercastle studio by Arttu Sarvanne and is scheduled for relase before the end of the year via Sound Riot Records.
"Waterlines" track listing: 01. Wingman 02. Life on Fire 03. Losing Time 04. Ivory Tower 05. I Failed You 06. Arriving as the Dark 07. Streams of Madness 08. Delta Sunrise 09. Between the Lines 10. Soaking Ground 11. Yövartio* (European bonus track) 12. Access Denied (Japanese bonus track)
* = Finnish version of the track "Arriving as the Dark"
Finnish metallers BURNING POINT will release their third album, entitled "Burned Down the Enemy", in Japan on December 20 via Soundholic. The Japanese CD will contain two bonus tracks. The European release through Metal Heaven Records is scheduled for January 2007; the exact date will be announced later.
As previously reported, BURNING POINT has for posted the cover artwork for "Burned Down the Enemy" (by Mattias Norén; EVERGREY, KAMELOT, KOTIPELTO) at this location.
The mixing sessions for "Burned Down the Enemy" took place at the Tonebox studio in the band's hometown of Oulu. Kari "Kakke" Vähäkuopus, who handled the mixing process for the previous albums, "Salvation by Fire" and "Feeding the Flames", once again helmed the sessions. The CD was mastered at Finnvox studios in Helsinki. Songtitles that were recorded are as follows (in no particular order):
01. Hell Awaits 02. Heart Of Gold 03. Parasite 04. From The Beginning Of It All 05. Burned Down The Enemy 06. Dawn Of The Ancient War 07. Deceiver 08. Bring Me Oblivion 09. Nocturnal Sight 10. To Hell And Back 11. Against The Madness Of Time 12. Eye For An Eye 13. My Reign, My Fire 14. Icebound
Состав BURNING POINT: Pete Ahonen – Vocals, Guitars Jari Kaiponen - Drums Toni "Jöpe" Kansanoja - Bass Jussi Ontero - Keyboards
Swedish black metal titans NAGLFAR have posted the following message on their official web site:
"So we've finally finished writing and arranging all the songs, and the drums for the album has been recorded at the Toontrack studio here in Umeå. Now the time has come to start recording the guitars, which shouldn't turn out to be any problem. The title of the album has been set to be 'Harvest', and will tentatively include the following attacks of audial terror:
01. Into the Black 02. Prayer of Cain 03. The Way of the Rope 04. Harvest 05. Feeding Moloch 06. The Mirrors of My Soul 07. Wargod 08. Plutonium Reveries 09. Odium Generis Humani
KRUX is the Swedish band featuring CANDLEMASS bassist Leif Edling, ex-YNGWIE MALMSTEEN singer Mats Levén, ex-ENTOMBED drummer Peter Stjärnvind, guitarist Jörgen Sandstrom (also in THE PROJECT HATE, ex-ENTOMBED/GRAVE), current ARCH ENEMY guitarist Fredrik Åkesson, and keyboardist Carl Westholm, has scheduled a CD-release party for its new album, "II", on November 11 in Stockholm. Audio samples of three tracks from the CD have been posted online at the band's official web site. Check out the songs "Devil Sun", "Sea of Doom" and "Lex Lucifero" at KruxDoom.se.
The follow-up to KRUX's self-titled debut, "II" was recorded at Studioland studio in Upplands Väsby, Sweden.
Scottish "pirate metallers" BATTLEHEART have released their second EP, "Terror on the High Seas", via their official web site.
BATTLEHEART is a four-piece folk power metal band hailing from Perth in Scotland. "We sing about pirates, and quests, and metal. But mostly pirates," the band writes on its web site. "The band was formed in 2004 by keyboard wizard Christopher and guitar shredmeister Gavin, and got off to a pretty slow start. But eventually the first EP was released in April 2006, to universal cries of 'man, thiикомs is pure dos.' So we recruited Dani and Doug to complete the live lineup, and proceeded to slay hundreds of poseurs with awesome live shows throughout the rest of 2006."
Terror on the High Seas E.P. (2006) 1.The Curse of Captain Morgan 02:18 2.Set Sail and Conquer 04:40 3.Terror on the High Seas 03:42 4.Wenches and Mead 03:46
BATTLEHEART is: Christopher Bowes - Keyboards, Vocals Gavin Harper - Lead Guitar Dani Evans - Bass Guitar Doug Swierczek - Drums
EMI Electrola will release the "Best Of" album from German metallers AXXIS on November 17.
EMI Electrola originally asked AXXIS for their co-operation in releasing a "best of" collection from the band several years ago. But the group was reluctant to release a compilation of material that was already available on the market. AXXIS singer Bernhard Weiss explained: "Contractually EMI is allowed to [do] with our old songs [as they please], but in this case we wouldn't support this project!"
After a long period of negotiations, the label and the band are now very happy with the final result.
Featuring previously unreleased material, remixed songs, and special acoustic versions of older tracks recorded earlier this year at Soundworxx studio, "Best Of" is a double CD containing ballads on the first disc and acoustic recordings on the second disc.
Said Weiss: "We were able to convince the label to invest a little bit more money into the project to get a worthy result. Today everybody is able to create their own AXXIS song collection or own sampler with [CD burning] etc. If a major label wants to release a 'best of,' it must be more special!"
"Best of Axxis" (view cover artwork at this location) track listing:
CD1 (ballads) 01. Only God knows (Remix 2006)* 02. Stay Don't Leave Me 03. Waterdrop (Classic Mix 2006)* 04. Touch the Rainbow (Long Version) 05. Fire and Ice (Preproduction 1988)* 06. Brandnew World (Remix 2006)* 07. Hold You 08. Face to Face (Live) 09. Tears of the Trees (Orginal Demo Version 1988)*+ 10. Love Doesn't Know Any Distance 11. Sarajevo 12. On My Own 13. Heaven 7th Train (Live 1992)* 14. Hide Away 15. World of Mystery
* previously unreleased + from the 1988 demo tape that landed AXXIS their major label deal
CD2 (acoustic recordings) 01. Living in a World (2006)* 02. Kingdom of the Night (2006)* 03. Little War (2006)* 04. Ships are Sailing (2006)* 05. Touch the Rainbow 06. Heaven in Black 07. C'est La Vie (Tango Version) 08. Fire and Ice 09. Another Day 10. Kings Made of Steel 11. Julia
* Newly recorded and previously unreleased
Bonus: two AXXIS videoclips from EMI that were broadcast by MTV between 1990 and 1996
SAVATAGE / DOCTOR BUTCHER / TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA guitarist Chris Caffery issued the following tribute to Savatage guitarist Criss Oliva yesterday (October 17th), the day he passed away in 1993 in a car accident:
"Hi all...
Today is the day we lost one of the greatest musicians ever. He was also a dear friend, a brother.
Criss Oliva was taken from us 13 years ago. Some of you are very aware of this, those who are not I wanted to place a reminder here today.
In the Criss Oliva forum Kat has posted about sending donations for a floral arrangement at his memorial. If you get the time and would like to help, please stop by.
The lives of all of us in the Savatage and Oliva family have never been the same since. The lives of millions of Savatage fans have never been the same. One can only imagne the magic he would have brought to our live through his music today.
Missing you as always Criss!
This is a song we dedicated to him live (Click a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9sZkVlnkH4" target="_blank">here' to open link) He never even got to play in Greece, but the kids there love him as much as we all do!!!!"
ANGRA's video for its new single, "The Course of Nature", ahs been posted online ' . The clip was filmed in early September in São Paulo under the guidance of director Carina Zaratin.
"The Course of Nature" comes off the band's forthcoming album, "Aurora Consurgens", due on October 24 (one day earlier internationally).
ONE MAN ARMY AND THE UNDEAD QUARTET, the new Swedish band featuring former THE CROWN vocalist Johan Lindstrand, will release its new single, "Christmas for the Lobotomizer", on November 17 via Nuclear Blast.
In addition to the title cut, the single will contain the songs "Devil on the Red Carpet", "Hell is for Heroes" and "Bulldozer Frenzy", all recorded live at this year's Summer Breeze festival in Germany.
Italy's DOPE STARS INC. will release its new album, "Gigahearts", on November 17. According to a posting on the band's web site, the CD was produced by Victor Love and includes "11 tracks to kick your ass very bad but also to satisfy your desire of melodies and electronic exploration."
"Gigahearts" track listing: 01. Multiplatform Paradise 02. Beatcrusher 03. Braindamage 04. Lost 05. Can you Imagine 06. Bang Your Head 07. Play 'N' Kill 08. Just The Same For You 09. Technologic Age 10. Citizen Xt99 11. Critical World
THIS ENDING have finished the recordings for their debut album "Inside The Machine". The album was recorded at Offbeat studio, Stockholm, Sweden, produced by Linus Nirbrоant & This Ending. Mastering was done by Peter in de Betou at Tailor Maid.
The music of THIS ENDING embodies the qualities of technical death/thrash and the catchiness of melodic death metal! "Inside The Machine" features 10 tracks of non stop violence and here΄s the complete tracklisting of it:
01.Seed of destruction 02.Inside the machine 03.Pitch black 04.Plague angel 05.Lidless eyes 06.Armageddon 07.Nailed down 08.Let the world burn 09.Into pain 10.This ending
Polish progressive rock/metal band MOONLIGHT has had the release date of its new album, "Integrated in the System of Guilt", pushed back to November 27 from the previously announced November 6 (via Metal Mind Productions). The CD was recorded in August at the Fonoplastykon studio with engineer Marcin Bors and marks the group's first release with new drummer Krzysztof "Bialy" Medrala (BODY MIND RELATION).
Commented guitarist Andrzej Kutys: "The album is heavy and powerful but also lyrical, psychedelic and disco-like; it is full of noises as well as beautiful melodies. The songs interleave, thus creating a musical whole. Also, you are in for a big surprise as, for the first time in the band's history, we have a guest on the album! Adam Sypula from CTRL-ALT-DEL joined Maja on vocals in one track. In our opinion, it is the best MOONLIGHT album."
"Integrated in the System of Guilt" track listing: 01. Slice 02. Recovering 03. Come With Me 04. Noom 05. For Better Days 06. Not My Politics 07. Reset 08. Redrum
MOONLIGHT's current lineup: Maja Konarska - Vocals Andrzej Kutys - Guitar Michal Podciechowski - Bass Guitar Kuba Maciejewski - Keyboards Krzysztof Medrala – Drums
Sweden's THERION has set "Gothic Kabbalah" as the title of its new album, due on January 16, 2007 via Nuclear Blast Records. Check out the cover artwork at this location.
THERION will play with a full symphonic orchestra, choir and international opera stars on December 9, 2006 at the Palace Hall in Bucharest, Romania
Long-running Italian metallers WHITE SKULL will release their new album, "The Ring of the Ancients", on October 20 via Dragonheart Records. The follow-up to 2004's "The XIII Skull" was recorded at Remaster Studio in Vicenza and is said to be a concept album about Celtic history and culture.
"The Ring of the Ancients" track listing: 01. Ninth Night 02. Guardians 03. Head Hunters 04. The Ring of the Ancients 05. Half Moon Path 06. From The Mist 07. Ogam (Mystic writings on the Stone) 08. After the Battle (...Bottle) 09. King with the Silver Hand 10. Valhalla 11. Marching to Alesia 12. Tuatha De Danaan Bonus track: 13. Ninth Night (video clip)
"The Ring of the Ancients" is WHITE SKULL's first album for Dragonheart following the group's split with Frontiers Records
AMOK, the Norwegian death metal quartet featuring Lava (TAAKE, ex-AETERNUS) on guitar, Necrocum (MYSTICUM, ABORYM) on vocals, Iscariah (NECROPHAGIA, ex-IMMORTAL, WURDULAK) on bass and Stanley on drums, has made two songs from its debut album, "Necrospiritual Deathcore", available for streaming via the media player at its official web site, www.nekro.info. The CD, which features guest appearences by Taipan (ORCUSTUS), U. Hoest (TAAKE) and Fabban Malfeitor (ABORYM), was issued via the newly formed label Planet Satan Revolution.
"Necrospiritual Deathcore" track-listing: 1.Necropsy Cunt 2.Geitehelvete 3.Channelling Black Horns 4.Effective Mass-Torture 5.Organ Ejaculator 6.Providentialism 7.Postapokalyptisk Korstog 8.Goatflesh Removal (Corpus Christi) 9.Goatflesh Removal (Memento Mori) 10.Goatflesh Removal (Gloria In Excelsis Deo)
Finnish epic/pagan metallers MOONSORROW have set "Viides Luku - Hävitetty" as the title of their new album, due on January 10, 2007 via Spikefarm Records.
Norwegian melodic metal band ENSLAVEMENT OF BEAUTY has had a change of heart and will carry on despite a previous announcement that the group was about to split. ENSLAVEMENT OF BEAUTY's new album will be titled "Mere Contemplations" and will contain 10 tracks of the band's unique melodic metal. The CD will be released via the Norwegian independent label INRI Unlimited. Three songs are now available for streaming at the group's official ' .
CRADLE OF FILTH's video for the new song "Temptation" can be viewed ' . The track comes off "Thornography", which is scheduled for release on October 17 through Roadrunner Records. An e-card for the CD can be accessed here.
BEYOND FEAR's video for the song "And... You Will Die" has been posted online ' (Real Media). The track comes off the group's self-titled debut album, which came out in May via SPV Records.
A "sneak peek" at the video for IRON MAIDEN's "Different World", the new single from the band's "A Matter of Life and Death" album, has been posted online ' (Windows Media). The "stunning" promotional clip full of animated action-packed adventure was directed by Howard Greenhalgh.
The cover artwork for DRAGONLAND's fourth album, "Astronomy", has been posted online at this location. Created by art wizard Niklas Sundin (who has previously worked with ARCH ENEMY, IN FLAMES, and DARK TRANQUILLITY, among others), it "reflects the astronomical theme of the album, with Copernicus surrounded by astronomical instruments and symbols which represent mankinds delving into the utterly dark vistas and the Cyclopean stars, which has been the focal point of awe for millenia and has not only lead to scientific endavours but also baffling myths and foreboading astrology," according to the band.
"Astronomy" is scheduled for release on November 13 via Century Media Records. The follow-up to 2004's "Starfall" was recorded at Studio Fredman (IN FLAMES, HAMMERFALL, DIMMU BORGIR) in Gothenburg with producer Fredrik Nordström.
"Astronomy" final track listing: 01. Supernova (5:09) 02. Cassiopeia (4:06) 03. Contact (4:25) 04. Astronomy (3:20) 05. Antimatter (3:00) 06. The Book of Shadows part IV: The Scrolls of Geometria Divina (4:04) 07. Beethoven's Nightmare (6:11) 08. Too Late for Sorrow (3:36) 09. Direction: Perfection (4:29) 10. The Old House on the Hill Chapter I: A Death in the Family (4:30) 11. The Old House on the Hill Chapter II: The Thing in the Cellar (3:07) 12. The Old House on the Hill Chapter III: The Ring of Edward Waldon (6:17)
Norway's TRAIL OF TEARS has unveiled the cover artwork (created by Jan Yrlund) for its fifth album, "Existentia", tentatively due in January 2007 via Napalm Records. The CD was recorded at Soundsuite Studio in Marseille, France with producer Terje Refsnes and includes contributions from French female singer Emmanuelle Zoldan and Norwegian keyboard master Bernt Moen.
"Existentia" track listing: 01. Deceptive Mirrors 02. My Comfort 03. Venom Inside My Veins 04. Decadence Becomes Me 05. She Weaves Shadows 06. The Closing Walls 07. Empty Room 08. Poisonous Tongues 09. As It Penetrates 10. Shades Of Yesterday
Do you miss TV channels playing your favourite metal tracks? Do you want to see uncensored, unabridged Metal, Hardcore, Metalcore, Rock clips 24/7? Well, nowadays this is a wish easily satisfied, just surf to Century Media Records Europe at Youtube by clicking on the link given below and enjoy some of our latest videos. Whether it is the new CELTIC FROST video, the uncensored POISONBLACK clip, top acts ranging from LACUNA COIL, NEVERMORE, HEAVEN SHALL BURN, IGNITE, NAPALM DEATH to SICK OF IT ALL, hot newcomers like MANNTIS, BRAND NEW SIN, INTO ETERNITY, FIREWIND or DIECAST, you will find their clips there ready to rock your screen anytime! Century Media Records Europe @ Youtube.com: http://www.youtube.com/user/CenturyMediaEurope
Former NIGHTWISH vocalist Tarja Turunen is continuing work on her new Christmas album, entitled "Henkäys Ikuisuudesta" (Breath From Heaven). The CD, which includes selections from JOHN LENNON and ABBA, is scheduled for release in Finland, Argentina and through the webshop at Turunen's official web site on November 8. A single, "You Would Have Loved This", will precede the album on October 11.
SKITLIV, the new doom/black metal project of former MAYHEM vocalist Maniac, has posted two songs on its official ' page. The first, "Densetsu" (the Japanese for "legend") is a rehearsal track, while the second, "Valley Below", is a rough mix, with drums and additional guitars still to be added.
SKITLIV will be working on the new album "Humanity Has Lost All Pride" until the end of the year and is currently actively looking for a label. The band also plans to tour towards the latter half of 2007. As previously reported, Maniac is also collaborating (vocals and lyrics) with Daniel Jansson on some tracks for the new DEADWOOD album, scheduled for release on the U.K.'s Cold Spring label in early 2007 (info@coldspring.co.uk).
SKITLIV lineup: Maniac (Norway): Vocals, Noise and Guitars Trish (Canada): Drums Ingvar (Iceland): Guitar Peter (Sweden): Bass
As previously reported, UK prog-metal act THRESHOLD are currently in the studio working on a new album. They have issued the following progress report:
"Threshold have started recording the follow-up to their 2004 album Subsurface at Thin Ice Studios in Surrey, England. Much of the drums, guitars and keyboards have now been recorded, with Mac's vocals due to be recorded at the beginning of October.
No title has been announced for the album, but the song titles are as follows: 'Slipstream', 'This Is Your Life', 'Elusive', 'Disappear', 'Fighting For Breath', 'Hollow', 'Safe To Fly', 'One Degree Down', 'Pilot In The Sky Of Dreams'.
Recording is expected to be complete in November, with a release planned for early in 2007."
"I’m very proud to announce that Moonspell was one of five nominees for MTV best Portuguese act 2006!
Tomorrow there will be a press conference where MTV is going announce it. It’s the first time a metal or heavy rock is distinguished as candidate for the prize, which for us is already an honour.
Thank you all for your support, specially to Universal Portugal and SPV."
As reported earlier on METALEATER, both SINNER and PRIMAL FEAR will appear together for the first time on the same stage on the same night on October 7 at H20 in Reichenbach (near Stuttgart), Germany. You can vote for the songs that will be included in the band's setlist ' .
SUSPERIA, the Norwegian band featuring former members of DIMMU BORGIR and SATYRICON, entered StrandStudio in Oslo, Norway at the beginning of August to start work on their fourth studio album, the follow up to 2004's acclaimed release "Unlimited". The band is once again working with Marius Strand, who previously assisted SUSPERIA on 2005's Norwegian Top 20 hit, the "Devil May Care" EP. Recording is expected to be completed by the end of September. SUSPERIA then head out on a short tour in October before returning to Dug-Out Studios in Uppsala, Sweden in November to complete the final mix with Daniel Bergstrand (IN FLAMES, MESHUGGAH, SOILWORK). A release is planned for early 2007 through the Tabu label in Europe and Candlelight Records in the USA. No name for the album has been announced yet, but songtitles revealed so far are "More" (which SUSPERIA performed at this year's Inferno Festival in Norway), "Cut From Stone", "Distant Memory" and "The Clone". The band has added a further date to those previously announced. They will perform at the Motstoy Festival in Notodden, Norway on Friday, October 6
Finnish band EMBRAZE shot a video for the song "The One" this past weekend with director Marko Siekkinen. The track comes off the group's latest effort, "The Last Embrace", which entered the album chart in Finland at position No. 29.
Reunited Swedish hard rockers EUROPE will release a new single, "Always the Pretenders", on October 11. The track listing is as follows:
01. Always The Pretenders (Radio Edit) 02. Always The Pretenders (Album Version) 03. Flames (Live at B.B. King in New York City) 04. Superstitious (Live at B.B. King in New York City)
Check out the single artwork at this location.
As previously reported, EUROPE will release its new album, "Secret Society", in Japan on November 18 via JVC/Victor Entertainment Inc. The CD will be issued in Europe on October 27. A U.S. release date has not yet been announced.
THERION mainman Christofer Johnsson has posted the following message on the band's official web site:
"We're happy to announce that the recordings [for the new THERION album] have been finished and that the mix of the album is in progress. We estimate to have the album done by the end of the month and the release is scheduled for January 16th"
German melodic black metal band SYCRONOMICA have completed work on their second album, "Gate", due on November 17 via Armageddon Music. The CD was recorded at Hellion Studios in Munich.
"Gate" track listing:
01. Preludium II 02. Beyond The Gate Of Light 03. Für Die Ewigkeit 04. In The Distance... 05. Von Ende und Anfang 06. To The Rivers End 07. Farewell Olden World 08. Unleashed From Ancient Chains 09. Nachtwanderung 10. The Nightly Forces
Century Media have posted a new DREAM EVIL track, entitled "Fire! Battle! In Metal!", online here. The track comes from the band's new album, "United" [view cover], scheduled to be released through the label on these dates:
October 13: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Benelux October 16: UK, France, Spain, Denmark, Norway, rest of Europe October 18: Finland, Sweden, Hungary October 20: Italy October 31: North America
Here is the complete track listing for the album:
01. Fire! Battle! In Metal! 02. United 03. Blind Evil 04. Evilution 05. Let Me Out 06. Higher On Fire 07. Kingdom At War 08. Love Is Blind 09. Falling 10. Back From The Dead 11. Doomlord 12. My Number One
Norwegian metallers GALAR have posted two new tracks from their forthcoming debut album, "Skogskvad" , scheduled to be released in October through Germany's Heavy Horses Records.
Finnish melodic power metallers THUNDERSTONE have entered Sonic Pump studios in Helsinki to begin recording their fourth album. The band is currently working on 11 as-yet-untitled original tracks and two cover songs which will be included as bonus tracks on special-edition versions of the new album.
Several video clips of SUPERNOVA members Tommy Lee (MÖTLEY CRÜE), Jason Newsted (VOIVOD, ex-METALLICA) and Gilby Clarke (ex-GUNS N' ROSES) recording the group's debut album have been posted online at their official web site.
Finnish metallers PAIN CONFESSOR will enter Fantom Studios in late 2006/early 2007 with Samu Oittinen to record their third album, tentatively due March 2007. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Dreamcrusher", "Second Sun", "Without Redemption - Without Remorse" and "Ne Plus Ultra". According to a posting on the group's web site, "the forthcoming album will be the heaviest and most brutal PAIN CONFESSOR album yet."
img src="/webzine/img/news/warrel.jpg"align='left'>NEVERMORE's September 12, 2006 concert at the Zeche club in Bochum, Germany — which was scheduled to be filmed for an upcoming DVD — was cancelled after singer Warrel Dane was taken ill (allegedly with a virus infection) and had to be hospitalized. No further information is currently available
Finnish dark/black metallers SHADE EMPIRE will release their second album, "Intoxicate O.S.", on October 23 via Dynamic Arts Records. The CD, which was issued in Finland in May, was recorded at Studio Perkele January-March 2006 and was produced and mixed by S. Jämsén. Mastering duties were handled by Minerva Pappi at Finnvox Studios.
"Intoxicate O.S." (view artwork at this location) track listing:
01. Slitwrist Ecstasy 02. Bloodstar 03. Chemical God 04. Rat In A Maze 05. Soulslayers 06. The Silver Fix 07. Embrace The Gods Of Suffering 08. Ravine 09. Hatefeast
Check out audio samples at this location.
A video for "Chemical God" was recently directed by Ari Reinikainen
SINNER — the German band featuring PRIMAL FEAR bassist Mat Sinner, his FEAR bandmate Tom Naumann (guitars), Frank Rössler (keyboards), METALIUM's Matte Lange (guitars) and former PRIMAL FEAR drummer Klaus Sperling — has entered Leon studio near Stuttgart with the engineering team of Achim Köhler and Samson Geiger to begin recording its new album, entitled "Mask of Sanity", for a January 19, 2007 release through MTM Music. Check out pictures from the studio '
British metallers MY DYING BRIDE will release their new album, "A Line of Deathless Kings", on October 9 via Peaceville/Snapper. The LP, which was recorded at at Academy Studios and was mixed at Chapel Studios, will also be made available as a special edition and as a limited double-vinyl release. A single, entitled "Deeper Down", will be released September 18.
The follow-up to 2004's "Songs of Darkness, Words of Light", "A Line of Deathless Kings" (view cover artwork at this location) will contain the following track listing:
01. To Remain Tombless (6:06) 02. L'Amour Detruit (9:08) 03. I Cannot Be Loved (7:04) 04. And I Walk With Them (6:37) 05. Thy Raven Wings (5:22) 06. Love's Intolerable Pain (6:14) 07. One of Beauty's Daughters (5:40) 08. Deeper Down (6:28) 09. The Blood, The Wine, The Roses (8:21)
Swedish melodic death metallers EVENTIDE will release their debut album, "Diaries from the Gallows", on October 13 via Cartel Media. The CD was recorded at Los Angered studios in Gothenburg and contains the following track listing:
01. Into Illusion (mp3) 02. Killing What Can't Be Handled (mp3) 03. My Closest Demon 04. This Curse 05. No Place Darker 06. Standards of Rebellion 07. Indifferent 08. The Skeleton Who Sold Its Skin 09. Vargavidderna 10. I, Enemy 11. Confinement
Irish folk metal band CRUACHAN has posted the final cover artwork for its upcoming fifth album, "The Morrigan's Call", at this location. The follow-up to 2004's "Pagan", "The Morrigan's Call" was recorded at Sun Studios in Dublin and is scheduled for release on November 17 via AFM Records. Click ' to listen to a sneak preview MP3 (said to be a "low-quality unmastered sample) of the new album.
"The Morrigan's Call" track listing: 01. Shelob 02. The Brown Bull Of Cooley 03. Coffin Ships 04. The Great Hunger 05. The Old Woman In The Woods 06. Ungoliant 07. The Morrigan's Call 08. Téir Abhaile Riú 09. Wolfe Tone 10. The Very Wild Rover 11. Cuchulainn 12. Diarmuid And Grainne
Swedish "death 'n' roll" band HEARSE, featuring former ARCH ENEMY singer Johan Liiva and ex-FURBOWL drummer Max Thornell, has finalized the track listing and artwork for its fourth album, "In These Veins", due in October via Dental Records. The follow-up to 2005's "The Last Ordeal" was recorded and mixed by Dan Swanö (EDGE OF SANITY, BLOODBATH) and is "definitely the best-sounding HEARSE album so far," according to the band. "Dan had pretty much free hands and gave the recording quite a rough touch even though it sounds much more modern than our earlier albums."
"In These Veins" track listing: 01. House of Love 02. Corroding Armour 03. Intoxication 04. Naked Truth 05. Crusade 06. Among the Forlorn 07. Atrocious Recoil 08. Hearse 09. In These Veins 10. Mayfly Euphoria (Japanese bonus track)
"In a conversation with the label Nuclear Blast, Messiah Marcolin has agreed to sing on the upcoming CANDLEMASS album. It will happen sometime in September/October. Some contractual stuff has to be sorted out first, but things look very promising at the moment.
As reported earlier on METALEATER, the band's new album, "Victory" [view cover], was recorded at Top Room Studios in Lunner, Norway this past July. The band are currently still looking for a new record deal.
Here is the complete track listing for "Victory": 01. New Life 02. Iron Curtain 03. The Sign 04. Revenge Is Sweet 05. In Memory 06. Awaken The Monster 07. Rise Of The Empire 08. When Darkness Falls 09. Fortress Of Solitude 10. Through The Fire 11. Victory
It has now been confirmed that several CRIMSON GLORY members — including Jon Drenning (guitar) and Dana Burnell (drums) — will be joining CRIMSON GLORY guitarist Ben Jackson to perform some classic CRIMSON GLORY songs during BEN JACKSON GROUP's support set for KAMELOT at their only Tampa Bay appearance at St. Petersburg State Theater on Saturday September 16. Also appearing as openers are CRYPTIC VISION
An MP3 of KEEP OF KALESSIN drummer Vyl "rippin' it up" during the band's appearance at the the Trondheim Jazzfestival on Friday, September 1 has been made available for download at this location. KEEP OF KALESSIN performed a one-time, unique show together with the duo MONOLITHIC in what was described as "a concert where extreme metal meets jazz at an insanely high tempo."
Commented KEEP OF KALESSIN's Obsidian C.: "First we thought about showing the jazz audience that we are capable of playing much more than extreme metal, but after having it up for discussion we came to conclude that if we're really going to blow their mind we'll have to do what we do best — and that's doing everything ten times faster than normal!"
KEEP OF KALESSIN's latest album, "Armada", entered the Norwegian national album chart at position No. 20 upon its release earlier in the year. The CD is the group's first with vocalist Thebon, who made his live debut with the band during their live shows in 2005, including the Eastern European tour with EXODUS and HYPOCRISY in December.
A brand new ANAAL NATHRAKH track, entitled "When the Lion Devours", has been posted online at the band's ' . The song comes off the group's third full-length album, "Eschaton", due on October 16 via Season of Mist. The CD includes guest appearances by Shane Embury (NAPALM DEATH) and Attila Csihar (MAYHEM).
ANAAL NATHRAKH recently had their "The Codex Necro" and "When Fire Rains Down From The Sky, Mankind Will Reap As It Has Sown" albums re-released with a load of bonus material. "The Codex Necro" has "bonus tracks comprising the Peel session recorded for the late John Peel's legendary radio show at the BBC studios at the great man's personal request," the band said. "These include the first-ever performance of 'The Oblivion Gene', later to appear in its full re-recorded form on the subsequent album 'Domine Non Es Dignus'. No, that doesn't mean this session was the first recording of the song, it means it was the first performance EVER, the song was never even rehearsed before this recording session. 'When Fire...' is reissued with the inclusion of ANAAL NATHRAKH's full live band debut, the 'Rock Show' live session recorded for the BBC radio show of the same name. Notable in this instance, alongside performances from Ventnor and Chemical Nova, are the appearances of Emburyonymous making its live debut for the band, and Nick Barker who bastardised for this recording alone."
Norwegian black metallers SATYRICON have posted the following message on their official web site:
"The booking of the Scandinavian tour in November is coming to an end and will be announced shortly. For now there are three shows already on sale: Oslo, Trondheim and Bergen, Norway. We are looking at approximately 10 shows in Norway, 6 in Sweden and 2 in Denmark.
"As a part of this tour we will realise our ambition to make the appearance of the brass section on the 'Now, Diabolical' album become reality, live in concert. We have already done this in a scaled down version as a part of the P3 sessions show that was a concert broadcast on radio shortly before the release of the album.
"This time around we have been lucky enough to join forces with the whole cavalry and we have some of the best men from The Norwegian Broadcasting Orchestra and Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra joining us on stage at Sentrum Scene in Oslo, November 4th. Please note that we are talking about big-ass horns in various shapes and forms. There will be no harps, or violins for that matter!
"Together with Øivind Westby that helped arrange brass for three of the songs on 'Now, Diabolical', we are arranging brass for old and new SATYRICON songs trying to give the songs a dimension and feel they normally don't have. We have moved the show to Sentrum Scene to ensure it is an all-ages show. We hope this will be a spectacular night for us the performing musicians, and the fans. The show will also be recorded and filmed."
SATYRICON's latest album, "Now, Diabolical", debuted at No. 2 on the national Norwegian chart and also charted in Sweden and Finland.
Italian doom metallers THUNDERSTORM have set "As We Die Alone" as the title of their fourth album, tentatively due late 2006/early 2007 via Dragonheart Records. The follow-up to 2004's "Faithless Soul" was recorded at New Sin Studio in Loria (Italy) and will include a cover version of the JIMI HENDRIX classic "Voodoo Chile (Slight Return)". THUNDERSTORM's version of the song is described by the band as "ultra-heavy but respectful of the original feeling."
MOURNFUL CONGREGATION is currently in the process of recording a new track for a split 7" record with fellow Australian doom metal band STONE WINGS. This track will be entitled 'Descent Of The Flames', with the STONE WINGS track being entitled 'Ascent Of The Flames'. This is somewhat of a concept 7" with both sets of lyrics being penned by Chuck Keller (ORDER FROM CHAOS, VULPECULA, ARES KINGDOM). With corresponding artwork and musical parallels, this will truly be a unique and one-of-a-kind jewel in the doom metal annals. It is unsure as to which label it will be released through at this stage, but expect its release late in 2006. Damon from MOURNFUL CONGREGATION has recently lent his doomed vocals to a FALLEN hymn. Of course this is the funeral doom band driven by FUNERAL drummer Anders Eek. The track is inextricably extreme and the results of this collaboration have proven to be truly doomed. What's more is that the lyrics to this hymn were penned by the late Einar Fredriksen of FUNERAL, making this a very meaningful track indeed. More news as to how it shall be released is soon to come. There is also talk of a four-way split 12" LP in the works with three other extreme doom metal bands from across the globe including LOSS. The artwork for this release will be handled by Away of Voivod. These collaborations will serve as the perfect predescessor to MOURNFUL CONGREGATION's next album which is set for a 2007 release.
Death metal legends Hate Eternal will release their first ever DVD The Perilous Fight on October 16th 2006. The DVD features artwork from Paul Romano (Mastodon, Trivium) that you can check out here at and also includes a blistering live set filmed at The Garage in London on 4th June 2006, with a live audio mix by Hate Eternal frontman Erik Rutan.
"The Perilous Fight" delves deep into the life of one of death metal s most influential bands, with Erik Rutan, Randy Piro and Reno Killerich sharing their thoughts on Hate Eternal so far in an exclusive 20 minute interview filmed immediately following the June 2006 London show.
Exhibiting sheer metal mastery, this DVD is overloaded with bonus features including a guided tour of Mana Studios in Florida by Rutan himself and three promotional videos from the band, including the exclusive unreleased "The Victorious Reign" directed by Shane Drake (Panic! At The Disco, Trivium, Hawthorne Heights).
Fans of Hate Eternal should be sure to grab their own copy of this unstoppable metal chaos when it is released on October 16th. The full tracklisting of The Perilous Fight will run as follows:
Main Feature:
01. Two Demons 02. Servants Of The Gods 03. The Victorious Reign 04. Dogma Condemned 05. I, Monarch 06. Behold Judas 07. The Obscure Terror 08. To Know Our Enemies 09. Powers That Be 10. By His Own Decree 11. Sons Of Darkness 12. King Of All Kings
Promo Videos:
01. The Powers That Be 02. I, Monarch 03. The Victorious Reign
Bonus Features:
Hate Eternal interview Behind the Scenes at Mana Studios
Former SAVATAGE/current JON OLIVA'S PAIN frontman Jon Oliva and SINNER/ex-PRIMAL FEAR drummer Klaus Sperling make guest appearances on the sophomore album from the South German melodic metal outfit SAIDIAN, entitled "Phoenix". Due on September 29 via Metal Heaven, the disc was once again produced by former SANVOISEN singer Vagelis Maranis at Maranis Studios in Backnang (near Stuttgart), Germany. Sperling reportedly plays drums on the entire album, while Oliva joined the group to sing a verse in the song "Crown of Creation".
TO-MERA, the new U.K.-based dark progressive metal band formed by former WITHOUT FACE vocalist Julie Kiss (photo) and bassist Lee Barrett (ex-EXTREME NOISE TERROR, DISGUST, MUSSOLINI HEADKICK), just shot a video for the song "Blood". The clip is currently being edited and should be ready in about 10 days. Check out pictures from the video shoot at this location.
TO-MERA's debut album, "Transcendental", is scheduled for release in Europe on September 11 via Candlelight Records. A U.S. release date has yet to be announced. Check out the album cover artwork at this location. Audio samples are available at this location. The track comes off the group's debut album, "Transcendental", due in
LOUDNESS guitarist Akira Takasaki will release his new solo album, "Nenriki", on September 20 via Tricycle Entertainment. The track listing for the effort is as follows:
01. Surf Trip 02. Mars 03. I Want To Take You Higher 04. Neighborhood 05. Mindphase 06. Chicago Drive 07. The Sun Goes Down 08. No One To Depend On 09. Black Gold 10. Paradise Jungle 11. Echoes 12. Funk It
The first of September will be a truly special day for all fans of Symphonic Progressive Metal with a fantasy touch: The masters themselves, BLIND GUARDIAN, will release their sophomore masterpiece "A Twist In The Myth"! Of course we have a soft spot for all those of you who can΄t stand weeks of waiting. Just click ' and join our exclusive pre-listening! You can check out various tracks - more tracks will be added the closer the release date gets, so make sure you return soon!
As previously reported, ex-MEGADETH guitarist Marty Friedman's latest solo album, Loudspeaker, features guest appearances by guitarists Steve Vai and John Petrucci (DREAM THEATER), bassist Billy Sheehan, keyboardist Jens Johansson (STRATOVARIUS) and drummer Jeremy Colson (CIRCUS DIABLO, THE BREED). It has been confirmed for a European release on September 22nd via Mascot Records. The track list is as follows: 'Elixir' (featuring Billy Sheehan), 'Street Demon', 'Black Orchid' (featuring John Petrucci), 'Paradise Express' (featuring Billy Sheehan), 'Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana' (featuring Jeremy Colson), 'Glycerine Flesh (featuring Jens Johansson), 'Stigmata Addiction' (featuring Jeremy Colson), 'Viper' (featuring Steve Vai), 'Static Rain', 'Colores Mi Vida', 'Devil Take Tomorrow' (featuring Jeremy Colson).
Dutch female-fronted symphonic metal band EPICA is currently working on material for its third full-length album. "We have about 13 songs which are growing every day," states vocalist Simone Simons. "Soon we will be able to play new songs live. Looking forward to it!"
Finnish band EMBRAZE has a posted a new MP3 file containing audio samples of tracks that will appear on its fourth album, "The Last Embrace", due on August 16. Download it ' .
According to a posting on EMBRAZE's web site, the new material "sounds heavier, but also more melodic than ever before in EMBRAZE history!"
"The Last Embrace" tentative track listing: 01. Carvings on the Gallowstree 02. Branded 03. Racing Against Time 04. Dead Roses 05. Liquid Fire 06. Memory Trace of our Time 07. The One 08. Sleeping Ground 09. Sun Goes Down 10. No Solace
EMBRAZE features in its ranks FOR MY PAIN… guitarist Lauri Tuohimaa. The band will perform at the Jalometalli festival in Oulu, Finland on August 19.
ENTOMBED recently issued an EP, entitled "When in Sodom", via Threeman Recordings. A full-length CD, "Serpent Saints", will follow on September 18.
ENTOMBED's new album was recorded at Soundland studio in Upplands Väsby, Sweden. The CD will be the group's first without the contributions of guitarist Uffe Cederlund, who left the band in September 2005.
German power metallers GAMMA RAY have set "Hell Yeah! The Awesome Foursome (And The Finnish Keyboarder Who Didn't Want To Wear His Donald Duck Costume) Live in Montreal" as the title of their upcoming DVD. The set will feature a ulti-camera recording of the band's May 6, 2006 show at Medley in Montreal, Quebec as well as lots of bonus features, such as a road movie, a documentary covering the group's history, behind-the-scenes footage, and video clips etc. "Canada is a good place to film a show," the band's frontman, Kai Hansen, previously said about the shoot. "But we are also bringing a cameraman along for the entire tour to capture all of the backstage and pre-show aspects of the band. We are bringing it back to rock 'n' roll basics."
This will be the first-ever GAMMA RAY video-documentary featuring the current lineup of the band. "The current lineup has been together for eight years," Hansen stated. "It's about time we get a filmed documentary of who the band is."
POISONBLACK's video for its new single, "Rush", has been posted online ' . Also available at YouTube.com is a video clip of POISONBLACK mainman Ville Laihiala (vocals, guitar, formerly of SENTENCED) performing the band's song "Pain Becomes Me" acoustically. Check it out at this location.
"Rush" and Pain Becomes Me come off POISONBLACK's long-awaited second album, "Lust Stained Despair", due in Europe on August 28 via Century Media Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Escapextacy" was recorded in part at Tonebox studio in Oulu, Finland and was mixed and mastered at Antfarm studios in Aarhus, Denmark.
"Lust Stained Despair" track listing: 01. Nothing Else Remains 02. Hollow Be My Name 03. The Darkest Lie 04. Rush 05. Nail 06. Raivotar 07. Soul In Flames 08. Pain Becomes Me 09. Never Enough 10. Love Controlled Despair 11. The Living Dead
Switzerland's SAMAEL has completed the pre-production phase for its new album, tentatively due before the end of the year. The band spent a week going over new songs with acclaimed producer Waldemar Sorychta (LACUNA COIL, TIAMAT, GRIP INC., MOONSPELL).
SAMAEL is currently in studio recording bass and guitars; sessions started in July and will continue throughout August.
MTM Music has set a September 22 release date for TNT's "Live in Madrid" DVD. The set, which was filmed on April 1, 2006 in Madrid, Spain, will be accompanied by an 82-minute audio CD plus booklet liner notes from ex-TNT vocalist Tony Harnell about his work with the group as well as an additional tour documentary by Darren Paltrowitz.
Commented Harnell: "This DVD is dedicated to TNT fans around the world who have not had a chance to see the band live. I gave everything I had to give — it was an emotional night for me as I said goodbye to this era of my life."
"Live in Madrid" track listing: 01. Invisible Noise 02. As Far As The Eye Can See 03. Downhill Racer 04. A Fix 05. She Needs Me 06. Give Me A Sign 07. Guitar Solo 08. Caught Between The Tigers 09. Listen To Your Heart 10. Black Butterfly 11. Seven Seas 12. Forever Shine On 13. Fantasia Espanola 14. My Religion 15. 10,000 Lovers (In One) 16. Intuition
Swedish melodic metallers NOSTRADAMEUS have posted the following message on their official web site:
"This album is, how we would see it, a development from 'Hellbound' — more METAL. But I'm sure that you guys who like the earlier stuff will find things that please you as well, as long as you like metal.
"As far as we heard, the album will be released by the end of this year or early next year. And our goal is to make as many gigs and tours as possible in the future."
"Pathway" track listing (in no particular order):
01. Wall of Anger 02. No Trace of Madness 03. Not Only Women Bleed 04. MDCC Pt. 1 05. MDCC Pt. 2 06. The Untouchebles 07. Death by My Side 08. Until the End 09. Demon Voices 10. Welcome to Living 11. P.I.R
The cover artwork for AMON AMARTH's new album, entitled "With Oden On Our Side", has been posted online at this location. The Swedish viking death metal metallers' sixth full-length album will be released in Europe on September 25 (September 22 in Germany, Austria and Switzerland) via Metal Blade Records. The CD was recorded at Fascination Street studios in Örebro, Sweden with producer Jens Bogren.
"With Oden On Our Side" track listing: 01. Valhall Awaits Me 02. Runes to My Memory 03. Asator 04. Hermod's Ride to Hel (Lokes Treachery Part 1) 05. Gods of War Arise 06. With Oden On Our Side 07. Cry of the Black Birds 08. Under the Northern Star 09. Prediction of Warfare
There will be a limited digipack version containing a bonus disc featuring the following track listing: 01. Where Silent Gods Stand Guard (live at Wacken 2004) 02. Death in Fire (live at Wacken 2004) 03. With Oden on Our Side (demo version) 04. Hermod's Ride to Hel - Lokes Treachery Part 1 (demo version) 05. Once Sent from the Golden Hall (Sunlight Studio recording 1997) 06. Return of the Gods (Sunlight Studio recording 1997 – previously unreleased song)
Guitarist Stefania Ponzilacqua of the Italian metallers ETERNAL TRAGEDY has announced that the group's next album — to be produced by Tim Aymar (CONTROL DENIED) and engineered by Curran Murphy (ex-ANNIHILATOR) — will feature guest appearances by Kelly Conlon (ex-DEATH, MONSTROSITY) on bass and Robert Falzano (ex-ANNIHILATOR) on drums. The CD will contain "50 minutes of technical death metal," according to a press release.
In other news, Ponzilacqua is currently seeking a death metal singer, a bass player, a drummer and another guitarist for touring purposes. More information is available by writing to metalentity@yahoo.com.
The cover artwork for MUSHROOMHEAD's new album, "Savior Sorrow", has been posted online at this location. Due on September 19 via Megaforce Records, the CD was produced in April 2006 by drummer Steve "Skinny" Felton and MUSHROOMHEAD at Cleveland's Filthy Hands Studios.
Commented Felton: "It's a new chapter in MUSHROOMHEAD's evolution. There are sounds on this album that sound so brutal and huge. We focused on delivering some vicious hardcore mixed with heavy melodic hooks. Lyrically, it definitely reflects where the world is at this moment in time."
"Savior Sorrow" track listing: 01. 1200 02. Simple Survival 03. Stoned 04. Save Us 05. Tattoo 06. The Doubt 07. Burn 08. Pretending 09. The Need 10. Cut Me 11. The Fallen 12. Embrace The Ending
German metal band DIE APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER has posted the title track of its upcoming album, "Riders on the Storm", at www.myspace.com/reitermania. Also available at the same location is the band's cover version of the JOHNNY CASH/BLUES BROTHERS classic "Ghostriders in the Sky".
"Riders on the Storm" is scheduled for release on August 25 via Nuclear Blast Records. A limited digipack version of the album will include two bonus tracks.
According to MaidenNorway.com, the artwork for "The Reincarnation of Benjamin Breeg", the first single from the new IRON MAIDEN album, "A Matter of Life and Death", has been posted online on the IMOC (Iron Maiden Online Club) forum. Check it out at ' .
As previously reported, IRON MAIDEN's video for "The Reincarnation of Benjamin Breeg" has been made available for streaming at YouTube.com.
British extreme metallers CRADLE OF FILTH have finalized the track listing for their new album, "Thornography", due on October 16 via Roadrunner Records. The follow-up to 2004's "Nymphetamine", "Thornography" was recorded at Lincolnshire, England's Chapel studios with producer Rob Caggiano (BLEEDING THROUGH, ANTHRAX) and was mixed at Backstage Studios in Derbyshire, England by Andy Sneap (MACHINE HEAD, SKINLAB, NEVERMORE).
"Thornography" track listing: 01. Under Pregnant Skies She Comes Alive Like Miss Leviathan 02. Dirge Inferno 03. Tonight in Flames 04. Libertina Grimm 05. Byronic Man 06. I Am The Thorn 07. Cemetery And Sundown 08. Lovesick For Mina 09. The Foetus Of A New Day Kicking 10. Rise Of The Pentagram 11. Under Huntress Moon 12. Temptation
The narraration for "Thornography" was once again laid down by Doug Bradley (a.k.a. "Hellraiser"'s chief Cenobite, Pinhead), who has previously worked with the group on "Her Ghost in the Fog" and "Swansong for a Raven".
German melodic black/death metallers SUIDAKRA are finalizing the mixing process for their new album, "Caledonia", tentatively due in October via Armageddon Music. The follow-up to 2005's "Command to Charge" was recorded at Gernhart Records studio in Siegburg, Germany and features artwork by Kris Verwimp. The album photography is being handled by Axel Jusseit, who previously worked with the group on 2003's "Signs for the Fallen".
According to the band, "'Caledonia' adopts the lyrical concept of ancient Scottish history, which explains song titles such as 'Highland Hills', 'Forth-Clyde' and 'The IXth Legion'."
The new ILLUMINATE CD will be in stores worldwide on September the 29th. There will be a limited edition of "Zwei Seelen" with a free bonus CD on which you can hear the band's last concert in Mexico-City in the year 2005!
Finnish metallers AMORPHIS will release "The Smoke" (cover), the second single from their "Eclipse" album, in Finland on June 7. Included on the CD is the video clip for "House of Sleep".
Finland's KALMAH have finished filming a video for the song "The Groan of Wind". The clip should be completed by the end of the month. Check out a few pictures from the video shoot '
"The Groan of Wind" comes off the band's latest CD, "The Black Waltz", which entered the Finnish national album chart in early March at position No. 38.
The follow-up to 2003's "Swampsong", "The Black Waltz" marks the group's recording debut with keyboardist Marco Sneck (POISONBLACK). The band's current lineup is as follows:
Pekka Kokko - Guitar, Vocals Antti Kokko - Lead Guitar Janne Kusmin - Drums Timo Lehtinen - Bass Marko Sneck – Keyboards
Italian gothic metal sensations GODYVA will be releasing the new full-length CD, entitled "In Good and Evil", on June 6 through SorceryStudios Media Group.
GODYVA — who have been likened to EVANESCENCE, LACUNA COIL and NIGHTWISH — recorded the follow-up to their acclaimed "Advent" EP (2002) at Jolly Roger Studios and mixed it at the Temple of Noise in Rome by Christian Ice. The band are currently in Rome filming a video for the CD's projected title track.
01. In Good and Evil ' 02. Broken Angel ' 03. Aisthesis 04. Intimate 05. Lovable Sin ' 06. The Deeper 07. Blue Shadows 08. Flame Flower 09. Dreams Of A Child ' 10. Soul Desert 11. Light At Last! 12. Purified 13. Cold '
German gothic rockers LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE will release their new single, "Again It's Over" (cover), in Europe on June 9 via Napalm Records. The six-track mini-CD jewel-case edition will include three non-album tracks. A video for "Again It's Over" was recently filmed and can be viewed ' (Windows Media).
LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE's seventh album, "Filthy Notes for Frozen Hearts", was produced by none other than John Fryer (H.I.M., PARADISE LOST, NINE INCH NAILS, DEPECHE MODE) and is scheduled for release in July via Napalm.
The cover artwork for the new DEICIDE album, "The Stench of Redemption", has been posted online a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/838/174/1600/small_STENCH_5.jpg" target="_blank">at this location.' The follow-up to 2004's "Scars of the Crucifix" was recorded at Morrisound in Tampa, Florida and marks the first recording with the new DEICIDE lineup following the departure of the Hoffman brothers. Joining frontman Glen Benton and drummer Steve Asheim in the new formation are guitarists Jack Owen (ex-CANNIBAL CORPSE) and Ralph Santolla (ex-ICED EARTH, DEATH).
New York-based death metallers SKINLESS have uploaded two tracks from their new album, "Trample the Weak, Hurdle the Dead", due on June 13 via Relapse Records. "Trample the Weak, Hurdle the Dead" is the band's first to feature new vocalist Jason Keyser. The follow-up to 2002's "From Sacrifice To Survival" was recorded with longtime engineer Brett Portzer at his Max Trax Studios and was mastered by Scott Hull at Visceral Sound.
"Trample the Weak, Hurdle the Dead" (view artwork at this location) track listing: 01. Overlord 02. A Unilateral Disgust 03. Deviation Will Not Be Tolerated ' 04. Trample The Weak, Hurdle The Dead 05. Sycophant 06. Endvisioned 07. Execution Of Reason ' 08. Wicked World (BLACK SABBATH cover)
Denmark's Codiac Records has just released "Shock Rock Hellions – A Tribute to W.A.S.P." (view cover here). The complete track listing for the 12-song effort is as follows:
01. DRACENA (SWE) – "Animal (Fuck Like a Beast)" 02. DENIAL OF GOD (DEN) - "Hellion" 03. STOS (POL) - "L.O.V.E. Machine" 04. HOLY DEATH (POL) - "Running Wild in the Streets" 05. CEREMONIAL CASTINGS (USA) - "Sleeping in the Fire" 06. BLACKIES (ITA) - "Rock and Roll to Death" 07. VICTIMIZER (DEN) - "Tormentor" 08. THIS TANGLED WEB (OZ) - "The Headless Children" 09. IMPALER (USA) - "On Your Knees" 10. CAPTAIN T & OSTRONOMY (USA) - "The Real Me" 11. CRYSTAL VIPER (POL) - "Wild Child" 12. EXEKRATOR (DEN) - "The Flame"
DARK ARENA, the new Cleveland, Ohio-based band featuring vocalist Juan Ricardo (ATTAXE, RITUAL), guitarists "Tall" Paul Konjicija (ANTITHESIS, RITUAL) and Dale Robertson (ROADIE'S NIGHTMARE), keyboardist Rhiannon Wisniewski (SOMNUS), drummer Chris Stolle (SOMNUS), and bassist Brian Glodde (ANTITHESIS, RICK RENSTROM), will release their debut disc, entitled "Alien Factor", on May 26 at the Great Lakes Metal Fest at the Cleveland Agora in Cleveland, OH.
"Alien Factor" was mastered by legendary producer Alex Perialas (TESTAMENT, ANTHRAX, OVERKILL) and features cover art by by Joseph Vargo at Monolith Graphics.
"Alien Factor" track listing: 01. A Place Called Freedom 02. Fear of the Night 03. Alien World 04. The Sight 05. Vicious Circle 06. Subterranean Man 07. Somewhere 08. Dark Sorrow 09. Crystallized
Check out the songs "A Place Called Freedom", "Fear of the Night" and "Alien World" at www.darkarena.cc.
Greek thrash metallers MEMORAIN have just released their new album from EMI Music Greece, entitled "Reduced to Ashes". The drums were recorded by Nick Menza (ex-MEGADETH) at his personal studio in Los Angeles, California and special guest Jeff Waters from ANNIHILATOR recorded a solo for the song "TV War".
"Reduced to Ashes" track listing: 01. The Land Of Pain 02. The Evil Within 03. Blinded By The Lights 04. Charge 05. See / Hate 06. Reduced To Ashes 07. TV War 08. Facing My Demons 09. Inside My Sickness 10. Against My Fate 11. Nothing Is Left 12. The Lights Into The Night
Danish melodic progressive power metal band ANUBIS GATE will enter the studio this summer to record their third album. The CD will be produced by Jacob Hansen (RAUNCHY, INVOCATOR), who is also the new lead singer in the band. This will be Jacob's first vocal preformance with ANUBIS GATE. An online diary tracking the progress of the songwriting sessions for the new album has been launched at this location.
Guitarist Andre Olbrich of the German power metal giants BLIND GUARDIAN revealed in an interview with Metal Temple magazine's Michael Dalakos that the band has been working on a strictly orchestral album, due for release in 2008.
Audio samples of the new NECROPHOBIC tracks "I Strike with Wrath" and "The Crossing" have been posted online at this location. Both songs come off the Swedish death metallers' fifth album, "Hrimthursum", due on May 22 via Regain Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Bloodhymns" was recorded at the House of Voodoo Studio with engineers Anders Bentell and Fredrik Folkare (guitarist and producer of UNLEASHED) and was mastered at Tailor Maid Production in Stockholm with Peter In de Betou.
"Hrimthursum" (a word taken from the old Norse mythology which means "The Frost Giants") will feature the following track listing: 01. The Slaughter of Baby Jesus 02. Blinded vy Light, Enlightened by Darkness 03. I Strike with Wrath 04. Age of Chaos 05. Bloodshed Eyes 06. The Crossing 07. Eternal Winter 08. Death Immaculate 09. Sitra Ahra 10. Serpents (Beneath the Forest of the Dead) 11. Black Hate 12. Hrimthursum
Threshold's brand new CD "Surface To Stage" was released on 27 March. You can hear mp3 clips at www.thresh.net. The 72 minute live CD was recorded during Threshold's last European tour.
1. Mission Profile (8.22) 2. Ground Control (7.12) 3. Into The Light (8.51) 4. Echoes Of Life (8.28) 5. Long Way Home (5.57) 6. Opium (6.29) 7. The Art Of Reason (10.06) 8. Pressure (5.22) 9. Flags And Footprints (5.10) 10. Light And Space (6.05). Total running time: 72 minutes
"Surface To Stage" is a direct-to-fan release available to buy from www.thresh.net.
Musicians Mac: vocals Karl Groom: guitars / backing vocals Nick Midson: guitars Richard West: keyboards / backing vocals Steve Anderson: bass / backing vocals Johanne James: drums
Despite the fact that their latest CD, "Afterburner", has only just been released through Nuclear Blast Records, reunited Dutch death metallers SINISTER have already commenced the songwriting process for their next album, tentatively titled "No Mercyful God".
SINISTER's current lineup consists of Aad Kloosterwaard, drummer and founder of the band, on vocals, Alex Paul on guitar, Paul Beltman (ex-JUDGEMENT DAY) on drums, and Bas van den Bogaard on bass.
VINTERSORG, the Swedish band led by BORKNAGAR frontman Andreas Hedlund (a.k.a. Vintersorg), have set "Solens Rötter" (Swedish for "The Sun's Roots") as the title of their new album, tentatively due before the end of the year via Napalm Records.
The follow-up to 2004's "The Focusing Blur" will not feature contributions from Steve DiGiorgio (SADUS, SEBASTIAN BACH, TESTAMENT, DEATH) and drummer Asgeir Mickelson (SPIRAL ARCHITECT, BORKNAGAR), both of whom performed on the band's last two releases.
PERSUADER, the Swedish winners of the 2003 "Young Metal Gods" award, will release their third full-length effort, entitled "When Eden Burns", on May 15 via Dockyard 1, the new company formed by Dirk Putzke, Christine Stephan (both ex-Sanctuary/Noise Records) and Sielck. The follow-up to 2004's "Evolution Purgatory" (Sanctuary/Noise) was recorded at Powerhouse studio in Hamburg, Germany with producer (and SAVAGE CIRCUS bandmate) Piet Sielck (IRON SAVIOR).
"When Eden Burns" track listing: 01. Twisted Eyes 02. Slaves Of Labour 03. Sending You Back 04. R.S Knights 05. The Return 06. When Eden Burns 07. Judas Immortal 08. Doomsday News 09. Zion 10. Enter Reality 11. Alight The Heavens (Japanese bonus)
PERSUADER members Jens Karlsson (vocals, guitar) and Emil Norberg (lead guitar) have teamed up with Sielck and former BLIND GUARDIAN drummer Thomen Stauch in a new band called SAVAGE CIRCUS. The group's debut album, "Dreamland Manor", was released last August via Dockyard 1.
ANOTHER LIFE, the Swedish project featuring Andreas Karlsson (ex-PAGANIZER, RIBSPREADER) and Dan Swanö (EDGE OF SANITY, BLOODBATH, PAN THY MONIUM), have secured a touring lineup to promote their upcoming debut album, "Memories from Nothing", due on April 20 via VIC Records. It is as follows:
Andreas Karlsson - Vocals Fredrik Pettersson - Lead Guitar Andreas Ottosson - Bass Christian Ahlsen - Guitar Niklas Ottosson - Keyboards August Lengquist - Drums
Commented Karlsson: "We entered the rehearsal room today and rehearsed two songs from 'Memories From Nothing'. Everything went well and the plan is to be ready for live shows at the end of the summer."
A teaser MP3 containing selections from "Memories from Nothing" can be downloaded '
"Memories from Nothing" track listing: 01. Firstborn Unicorn 02. Falling Apart 03. The End Of Days 04. I Am Nothing 05. Cotton Pines 06. Everlasting 07. The Last Goodbye 08. The Everflow 09. Poltava (Part I, Part II, Part III)
Swedish epic/power metallers FALCONER have set "Northwind" as the title of their new album — their first since the departure of singer Kristoffer Göbel and return of Mathias Blad. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Catch the Shadows", "Northwind", "Legend and the Lore", "Waltz with the Dead", "Long Gone By" and "Tower of the Queen".
Israeli metal band ORPHANED LAND have announced that Steven Wilson of PORCUPINE TREE will produce their next album, entitled "The Never Ending Way of ORwarriOR".
Commented ORPHANED LAND vocalist Kobi Farhi: "We are a big fans of Steven's works, we are very much exited that we will work together and we are sure we will make an unforgettable album!"
Added Wilson: "I'm very happy to have the opportunity to work with ORPHANED LAND, one of the most unique and ambitious metal bands on the scene. I know we are going to make an extraordinary album together."
ORPHANED LAND is a band which combines progressive heavy/death-metal rock with ethnic Middle Eastern/Arabic/Israeli elements, a unique hybrid of styles that contributed to Steven's decision to work with them. The group have recorded three albums to date, the most recent of which, "Mabool", was their Century Media debut.
San Diego extreme metallers CATTLE DECAPITATION have set "Karma.Bloody.Karma." as the title of their new album, tentatively due in June/July via Metal Blade Records. The CD was produced by Billy Anderson (SWANS, MR. BUNGLE, SLEEP) and features guest appearances by Joey Karam (THE LOCUST) and John Wiese (SUNN0))), BASTARD NOISE).
"Karma.Bloody.Karma." track listing: 01. Intro 02. Unintelligent Design 03. Success Is…(Hanging By the Neck) 04. One Thousand Times Decapitation 05. The Carcass Derrick 06. Total Gore 07. Bereavement 08. Suspended In Coprolite 09. Alone At The Landfill 10. Karma.Bloody.Karma. 11. The New Dawn 12. Of Human Pride & Flatulence
Belgium's AXAMENTA, the former band of current EPICA bassist Yves Huts, have inked a deal with Shiver Records for the release of their new album, "Ever-Arch-I-Tech-Ture". The CD was recorded at Hansen studio in Ribe, Denmark with producer Jacob Hansen (MERCENARY, RAUNCHY, ABORTED) and was mixed and mastered will at Studio Fredman in Gothenburg, Sweden under the supervision of producer Fredrik Nordström (IN FLAMES, SOILWORK, DIMMU BORGIR, THE HAUNTED, OLD MAN'S CHILD). PAIN OF SALVATION singer Daniel Gildenlöw is featured as a guest vocalist on one entire song ("Threnody For An Endling"), for which he has written the melody and vocal pattern himself. A May release is expected.
"Ever-Arch-I-Tech-Ture" track listing:
Chapter 1: The Chainreaction is Initiated: 01. Incognation 02. Demons Shelter Within 03. Ashes To Flesh ' 04. A Nation In Atrophy 05. The Midnight Grotesque
Chapter 2: The Chainreaction is Terminated 06. Prophet Set To Witness 07. Ever-Arch-I-Tech-Ture 08. Threnody For An Endling (feat. Daniel Gildenlöw)
Chapter 3: The Chainreaction is Saturated 09. Ravager 1.6.6.3. 10. Of Genesis And Apocalypse 11. Foreboding 12. Shackles Cross 13. The Omniscient
Ozzy Osbourne decided to leave the ranks of legendary band BLACK SABBATH due to personal reasons. His wife and group manager, Sharon, found the replacement in person of her daughter Kelly. Young girl has already started to learn the huge number of BLACK SABBATH songs for the tour along Amazon river.
Also the variant of Tonny Aiomi replacing by Victor Zinchuk.
Frontiers Records will release former HELLOWEEN singer Michael Kiske's new solo album, simply entitled "Kiske", on May 19.
"Kiske" track listing: 01. Fed By Stones 02. All-Solutions 03. Knew I Would 04. Kings Fall 05. Hearts Are Free 06. The King Of It All 07. Sing My Song 08. Silently Craving 09. Truly 10. Painted 11. Sad As The World
Norwegian black metallers CARPATHIAN FOREST will release their new album, "Fuck You All!!!!", on May 22 via Season of Mist. The CD will be available in a limited "metalpak" edition and regular jewel case. Songtitles set to appear on the album include "The Frostbitten Woodlands of Norway", "Submit to Satan!!!", "Start Up the Incinerator (Here Comes Another Useless Fool)" (download ' ) and "Shut Up, There Is No Excuse To Live..." Check out the cover artwork by CARPATHIAN FOREST mainman Nattefrost at this location.
As previously reported, CARPATHIAN FOREST and KEEP OF KALESSIN will be teaming up for a European tour beginning on April 22 in Aarhus, Denmark.
Russian band Childermas will perform on stage again after almost 8-year break. The group will take part in close metal party "Trubaza.Zhest.Zhest.Zhest.", organized by Assault Team Inc., Murmansk (Russia). the party will also feature No Hope, young nu-metal act from Murmansk. In such original way decided the musicians of Childermas remark their "out from shadow". Band will present mostly new stuff, planned to be recorded for group's 4th studio album. Some old songs with former-vocalist R. Possessed (MOR) are to be played too.
Swiss hard rockers GOTTHARD will release a live album, entitled "Made in Switzerland", on April 28. The CD will include 17 songs that were recorded during a concert at the Hallenstadion in Zürich in December 2005. As a special bonus, the CD will also contain a DVD featuring the complete concert as well as "making-of" footage and many new photos. The complete track listing is as follows:
CD: 01. All We Are 02. Dream On 03. Hush 04. Mountain Mama 05. Let It Be 06. Top Of The World 07. I Wonder 08. Said And Done 09. One Life One Soul 10. Nothing Left At All 11. Sister Moon 12. Mighty Quinn 13. In The Name 14. Heaven 15. Lift U Up 16. Anytime, Anywhere 17. Immigrant Song
DVD: 01. All We Are 02. Dream On 03. Hush 04. Mountain Mama 05. Let It Be 06. Top Of The World 07. I Wonder 08. Said And Done 09. One Life One Soul 10. Nothing Left At All 11. Sister Moon 12. The Other Side Of Me 13. Firedance 14. Battle Of Titans 15. Homerun 16. Mighty Quinn 17. In The Name 18. Heaven 19. Lift U Up 20. Anytime, Anywhere 21. Immigrant Song
Bonus DVD Features: * Making Of Hallenstadion Show * Making Of Video "Anytime, Anywhere" with Jenny * Photogallery * Videos: - Anytime, Anywhere - Lift U Up - Dream On
Major German independent record company, SPV, has entered into a joint venture with London based record executive, Del Taylor.
SPV has acquired Del Taylor's Blue and Yellow labels in a deal whereby Del will A&R the labels as well as sign blues, jazz, R&B acts and catalogue to the Blue label and rock acts and catalogue to the Yellow label. In turn the labels will be marketed and distributed worldwide by SPV.
Del Taylor has managed and produced many artists, including the legendary blues musician and broadcaster, Alexis Korner. Del also set up and ran the successful British blues label, Indigo Records for the Trojan Records Group until its sale to Sanctuary Records.
Of SPV, Del Taylor said: "Manfred Schuetz and his team are real music people and SPV is a powerful independent music company that will be able to bring specialist blues and rock music to a wide audience around the world."
Manfred Schuetz, Managing Director of SPV said: "I am very pleased to be working with Del, as after successfully building our Revisited label, specialising in national back catalogue product, with Del and our new Blue and Yellow labels we will be able to further expand our international back catalogue."
The first releases to appear under the new deal are scheduled for May 2006.
Reactivated Finnish melodic extreme metal band ETERNAL TEARS OF SORROW have uploaded the cover artwork for their fifth album, "Before the Bleeding Sun", due in Finland on April 26 via Spinefarm Records. Check it out at this location.
"Before the Bleeding Sun" was recorded at Tico-Tico Studios in Kemi and at Note-On Studios in Kuopio and marks the group's first release to feature lead guitarist Risto Ruuth (also in SCYRON) and keyboardist Janne Tolsa (also in TAROT).
Commented the band: "The album is damn heavy but still more diverse and more melodic than any of our previous albums. The whole process has rarely been so easy and rewarding for us before, all the pieces really clicked together this time."
"Before the Bleeding Sun" track listing: 01. Sweet Lilith of My Dreams 02. Another Me 03. Red Dawn Rising 04. Upon the Moors 05. Sakura No Rei 06. Sinister Rain 07. Lost Rune of Thunder 08. Tar Still Flows 09. Angelheart, Ravenheart (Act I: Before the Bleeding Sun)
Guest vocalists: Lead vocals by Jarmo Kylmänen (SCYRON) and Miriam "Sfinx" Renvåg (RAM-ZET). Backing vocals by Jarmo Kylmänen, Miriam Renvåg, Tony Kakko (SONATA ARCTICA) and Marco Hietala (NIGHTWISH, TAROT).
ETERNAL TEARS OF SORROW 2006: Altti Veteläinen (vocals, bass) Jarmo Puolakanaho (guitar) Risto Ruuth (lead guitar) Janne Tolsa (keyboards) Petri Sankala (drums)
Swedish technical death metal outfit SPAWN OF POSSESSION have finalized the track listing for their sophomore album, "Noctambulant", due this spring via Neurotic Records. The CD was recorded at Pama Studios in Kristianopel, Sweden with producer Magnus Sedenberg and contains 10 tracks, one being an instrumental intro, as well as several guest contributions, to be revealed later on.
"Noctambulant" track listing: 01. Inception 02. Lash by Lash 03. Solemn they Await 04. Render my Prey 05. Eve of Contempt 06. Sour Flow 07. By a Thousand Deaths Fulfilled 08. Dead & Grotesque 09. In My Own Greed 10. Scorched
EARACHE RECORDS are proud to announce a joint partnership with Metro 3D, a leading Value Price video games publisher, in conjunction with the games developer Data Design Interactive in the creation of EARACHE EXTREME METAL RACING for PlayStation2, PC and PSP all formats which will be due for shipping on 7th July 2006.
EARACHE EXTREME METAL RACING will feature ten evil Earache racing teams burning a lot more than rubber through hell and other wastelands. Along with themed tracks from the combatants on the starting grid there’ll also be a plethora of extreme Earache classics making up the soundtrack of the game from such luminaries as Napalm Death, At The Gates, Cathedral, The Haunted, Hate Eternal, Cult Of Luna, Beecher, Urkraft, Anata, Mistress, Severe Torture and many others.
EARACHE ARTISTS CONFIRMED AS RACING 'TEAMS' : Mortiis, Deicide, Morbid Angel, Akercocke, Decapitated, Biomechanical, Municipal Waste, The Berzerker, Linea 77, Society 1
Ashley Mortimer, Marketing Manager, Earache Records says: "Earache prides itself on innovation. As an independent label we've been on the cutting edge of unique and groundbreaking music for 15 years and we relish every opportunity, particularly a new or unusual one. We don't know of any other labels who have released their own game and the cross-marketing possibilities are really exciting. Culturally we don't think music and gaming are so far apart, many music fans play computer games, and nearly all gamers listen to music so we have teamed up with DDI and Metro3D to produce Earache Extreme Metal Racing. Your car shreds the opposition, the soundtrack shreds your ears - what a great combination!"
EARACHE EXTREME METAL RACING uniquely was conceived and created by 17 year old Gothic metaller Sky Nash and all started as a possible way to not only keep her amused but potentially to dissuade her from following her overworked father into a gaming career.
Frazer Nash of Frazer Nash Communications describes how his daughter created the game during work experience at developer, DDI: “Sky, then just 15, was given a huge responsibility to design her own (tongue in cheek) game. By the end of the first week, she had created a Gothic-looking game, complete with drafted levels and an awesome soundtrack. 12 months on and with professional development courtesy of Sam King and Mike Rooker (art), Mark Gemmell (production), Karl White and Julian Salter (Programming) at DDI. Aimed to appeal to Goth / Rock music fans the world over, Metro 3D have created EARACHE EXTREME METAL RACING - a monster of a game.”
Stewart Green MD of Metro 3D says: “In a very male dominated industry you tend to think in stereotypes so when I heard that Sky, our latest girl on work experience had some design ideas to improve an off road racing game. I initially thought I was going to hear ‘make it pink with rainbows’ but I was very pleasantly surprised to hear she thought we needed the ability to mow down zombies, more carnage with chainsaws and metal spikes, and it just had to have an extreme thumping heavy metal sound track… and so Earache Extreme Metal Racing was born”
“The game is frantic, mad as hell fun, oh and in the end there was some pink … on the headless corpse bride! We have been working with Sky for the past year and the school has already booked her back for next year - to work on the sequel.”
TheMetalList Portal has been informed that the drummer Aleksandr "Can" Kasiarum parted ways with the famous ukranian power metal band CONQUEST due to various private and musical disaccordances. Further Can's plans will be known in the nearest future. CONQUEST are now searching for a new drummer.
MASTERPLAN vocalist Jorn Lande (ex-ARK, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN) has entered the Norwegian national album at position No. 54 with his fourth solo album, "The Duke" (AFM Records). The CD was produced by Lande and PAGAN'S MIND guitarist Jörn Viggo Lofstad, and was mixed at Jailhouse Studios in Denmark by Tommy Hansen. Recording musicians include:
Jorn Lande (vocals) Jörn Viggo Lofstad (PAGAN'S MIND) - Guitar Tore Moren (CARNIVORA) - Guitar Morty Black (TNT) - Bass Willy Bendiksen (COMPANY OF SNAKES) -Drums
Also featured on drums is Stian Kristoffersen of PAGAN'S MIND and FIREWIND, who appears on a newly recorded version of "Starfire", from Lande's debut, and the tracks "Stormcrow" and "After the Dying".
"The Duke" includes a cover version of THIN LIZZY's "Are You Ready". Japanese versions of "The Duke" add an extra track, entitled "Noose".
Swedish metallers ENTOMBED have pushed back the projected release date of their new full-length album, "Serpent Saints", to September 18. An EP, entitled "When in Sodom", will precede the album on June 6 via Threeman Recordings.
Commented the band: "There were so many great songs to chose from and this is a great way give the fans what they want — more ENTOMBED!"
ENTOMBED's new album is being recorded at Soundland studio in Upplands Väsby, Sweden. The upcoming CD will be the group's first without the contributions of guitarist Uffe Cederlund, who left the band in September.
AMORPHIS's latest album, "Eclipse", has entered the German national chart at position No. 56, Austrian chart at No. 69 and Hungarian chart at No. 29. The CD, which debuted at the top of the Finnish chart, has since moved down to position No. 3.
The follow-up to last year's "Far from the Sun", "Eclipse" was recorded at Sonic Pump studios in Helsinki with engineer Nino Laurenne (THUNDERSTONE). The production duties were handled by the band and Marco Hietala (NIGHTWISH) for vocals. The mixing was taken care of by Mikko Karmila (who previously worked with the group on their "Am Universum" CD) at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki.
AMORPHIS have lined up several festival appearances following their Neckbreaker's Ball European tour (also featuring HYPOCRISY, SOILWORK, ONE MAN ARMY AND THE UNDEAD QUARTET and SCAR SYMMETRY), which is scheduled to take place in April.
Norwegian extreme metal act DISIPLIN have revealed the details of their new lineup, which will make its live debut at the Inferno Festival on Saturday, April 15 in Oslo, Norway. Joining mainman Haakon Forwald (a.k.a. General K; ex-MYRKSKOG, DISSECTION; guitar) are returning vocalist Jonas Raskolnikov Christiansen, drummer Massimo Altomare (BLACK FLAME, DAEMUSINEM, MORTUARY DRAPE) and session bassist Adolf Ramirez.
DISIPLIN released their sophomore album, "Anti-Life", in early 2005 via Moonfog Productions. The follow-up to the group's 2003 self-titled debut was recorded at Akkerhaugen Lydstudio and features a guest appearance by CARPATHIAN FOREST's Nattefrost.
Austrian "angelic bombast metal" act EDENBRIDGE will release their their fifth album, "The Grand Design", on May 19 via Massacre Records. A single, featuring the band's cover version of the James Bond classic "For Your Eyes Only" (originally sung by Sheena Easton), will precede the album on April 21.
The follow-up to 2004's "Shine", "The Grand Design" was recorded at The Farpoint Station studio in Austria and the Thin Ice facility in England with THRESHOLD mastermind Karl Groom. Guest musicians on the album include Dennis Ward and Robby Valentine, both of whom were responsible for backing vocals and choirs on the new CD.
"The Grand Design" track listing:
01. Terra Nova 02. Flame Of Passion 03. Evermore 04. The Most Beautiful Place 05. See You Fading Afar 06. On Top Of The World 07. Taken Away 08. The Grand Design 09. Empire Of The Sun (bonus track)
"For Your Eyes Only" track listing:
01. For Your Eyes Only 02. Evermore 03. The Grand Design (edit) 04. For Your Eyes Only (acoustic version)
According to a posting on ZYKLON's official web site, the band have completed work on their much-anticipated third album, entitled "Disintegrate". The CD was recorded at Akkerhaugen Lydstudio in Norway and was mixed at b>Studio Fredman in Gothenburg, Sweden. A May 15 release via Candlelight Records is expected.
So far, the following ten track titles are confirmed to appear on the CD: "Wrenched", "Cold Grave", "Disintegrate", "In Hindsight", "Skinned and Endangered", "Vulture", "Subversive Faith", "Underdog", "Ways of the World", and "Vile Ritual".
A medley of audio clips from Finnish folk metallers KORPIKLAANI's upcoming third album, entitled "Tales along this Road", has been made available at ' .
As previously reported, Napalm Records has set an April 21 European release date for "Tales along this Road" (view cover at ' ). A new-album listening session and a "meet-and-greet party" will be held before every gig on the band's upcoming "Tales along This Tour", which is set to kick off March 23 in Tampere, Finland. A complete list of currently confirmed tour dates can be found at ' .
KORPIKLAANI's second album under their current moniker (the group released two albums as SHAMAN), "Voice of Wilderness", was released in January 2005 via Napalm Records.
Satan's favourite band Deicide have declared 6.6.06 the release date for their upcoming album on Earache records. The album, titled The Stench Of Redemption , is tentatively set for release on the date that coincides with the mark of the beast.
The album is currently in the preliminary stages as the band are gearing up to enter the studios with Jim Morris of Morris Sound. The band have demoed 10 songs which Glen Benton is locked away preparing his signature twisted lyrics to coincide with the brutally heavy tracks.
This album marks the bands first recorded album with an all-new line-up who has been igniting audiences so far. The two-guitar attack of DEICIDE now comprises of Jack Owen of CANNIBAL CORPSE fame and Ralph Santolla of ICED EARTH and DEATH fame.
The band are very excited to release this album, as Glen Benton has reported that this is one of the best death metal albums in years. Initially, Benton reported that the album had Earache head Digby Pearson banging his head and jumping up and down like a young metalhead. Get those metalhorns ready kiddies!
The band are currently preparing for a South American stint that will send the band through 6 countries at a light-speed rate. Deicide is excited to reach their South American fans that have always gone crazy for the bands performances in the past. Speaking of that South American tour, some slight adjustments to the tour dates have been made which can be seen on the Earache tour dates page.
Following the release of "The Stench Of Redemption" a full European tour is planned, continue to check Earache.com for details as they become available.
Check out the band's all new Myspace site for their new upcoming album at - http://myspace.com/thestenchofredemption
The cover art for the new TWELFTH GATE album, "Threshold of Revelation", has been posted online ' . "Also, as much as we tried to keep our original February release date, it just didn't work out," the band write in a statement. "Our label, Season of Mist, decided that it would be best to wait until March 21st to help insure more of a priority focus on their part...and how could we argue with that...hehe."
The follow-up to 2003's "Summoning", "Threshold of Revelation" was co-produced by Chris Djuricic (NOVEMBERS DOOM, MICHAEL ANGELO BATIO, ENFORSAKEN) at Studio One in Racine, WI.
"Threshold of Revelation" track listing: 01. Loyal 02. Critical Elements 03. Inner Core 04. Delving Too Deep 05. Human Swine 06. Black Robe 07. Branded 08. Together Divided 09. Face Within A Face 10. Come Alive
Sanctuary Records has set an April 4 North American release date for the new VENOM album, entitled "Metal Black".
"Metal Black" was mixed at the Townhouse Studios in London and contains 14 new songs, including "Antechrist", the demo for which can be heard ' .
"Metal Black" track listing: 01. Antechrist 02. Burn In Hell 03. House of Pain 04. Death & Dying 05. Rege Satanas 06. Darkest Realm 07. A Good Day to Die 08. Assassin 09. Lucifer Rising 10. Blessed Dead 11. Hours of Darkness 12. Sleep When I'm Dead 13. Maleficarvm 14. Metal Black
Famed keyboardist, Derek Sherinian, is in the studio producing yet another masterpiece. The new untitled work is currently underway in Sherinian’s own Beachwood Manor Studios in Burbank, CA. This new album is slated to be released June 2006 worldwide on InsideOut Music in the US & Europe, and Marquee/Avalon in Japan.
After a nine month World Tour with Billy Idol, Sherinian went immediately into the studio. With the immense reception to last year’s album Mythology, he decided to bring back several of the available players that made it happen. "This is the 4th solo record of mine that Zakk has played on,” explains Sherinian. Zakk is the real deal and I am very fortunate to be able to work with him."
The 2006 all-star line-up is comprised of Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society/Ozzy), John Petrucci (ex-Dream Theater band-mate), Steve Lukather (Toto), Simon Phillips (Toto, The Who, Judas Priest), Tony Franklin (The Firm/Blue Murder), and Brian Tichy (Billy Idol, Ozzy) and other surprise special guests.
Sherinian gained worldwide recognition as a member of Dream Theater from 1994-1999. He has also toured and recorded with Alice Cooper, KISS, and BILLY IDOL among many others.
It’s been a long wait for the fans, but now Sodom are ready to present their latest recording at last: the German thrash metal legends are scheduled to release their new album with the plain but unequivocal title "Sodom" in Germany on April 21st 2006, in Europe April 24th 2006 and in the USA May 9th 2006 . “Every band needs a self-titled album at least once in their career,” band mastermind Tom Angelripper points out, adding that the twelve new tracks will contain pure thrash metal in its most dynamic incarnation. “We have to apologize to our fans that the album didn’t come out sooner, but the work on our DVD, Lords Of Depravity Part I, was so time-consuming that things took a little longer than expected.”
However, the band featuring singer/bass player Tom Angelripper, guitarist Bernemann and drummer Bobby Schottkowski will make the long wait worthwhile for their fan community with an offering that could hardly be more straightforward or determined. “We wanted to prove to the world what we can do, that’s why we decided to roll up our sleeves and pool our strengths.”
The current Sodom line-up has proved to be the most consistent in the band’s history. “The team Angelripper/Bernemann/Schottkowski will celebrate its anniversary this year: We’ve been together for ten years,” explains Tom, who is determined to continue to sail into the wind with his band in an increasingly short-lived world, not deviating from his present course when it comes to Sodom’s lyrics. “I’ve always written about things that go on in the world, the injustice and mistakes that happen everywhere. I know that you can’t change anything politically, but I would at least like to make clear where I stand and raise people’s awareness of those deplorable states of affair.” Sodom was recorded and mixed at the premises of an old friend: Andy Brings. The former Sodom guitarist produced the new album at his Midas Twins studios in Hagen, Germany, together with sound engineer Haan Hartmann, bringing out the best in the musicians. “Andy did a great job and really lured the optimum performance out of me. Our new album proves that you don’t necessarily have to go to an American studio to get a good sound.” Sodom" was mastered by Eroc, drummer with German rock cult band, Grobschnitt.
Tracklisting:
1. Blood On Your Lips 2. Wanted Dead 3. Buried In The Justice Ground 4. City Of God 5. Bibles And Guns 6. Axis Of Evil 7. Lords Of Depravity 8. No Captures 9. Lay Down The Law 10. Nothing To Regret 11. The Enemy Inside Bonus Track for Japan: 12. Kamikaze Terrorizer
Reactivated Finnish melodic extreme metal band ETERNAL TEARS OF SORROW have begun mixing their fifth album, "Before the Bleeding Sun", with Mikko Karmila at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Finland. "So far, the mixed songs sound exactly what they should sound like," the band write on their web site. "The mixing sessions are going to be finished by the end of next week, after which it's time to master the whole album. . . Travis Smith has been working on the graphics side for some time now. So far so good!" "Before the Bleeding Sun" is tentatively scheduled for release April 26 via Spinefarm Records. The CD was recorded at Tico-Tico Studios in Kemi and at Note-On Studios in Kuopio and marks the group's first release to feature lead guitarist Risto Ruuth (also in SCYRON) and keyboardist Janne Tolsa (also in TAROT). Commented the band: "The album is damn heavy but still more diverse and more melodic than any of our previous albums. The whole process has rarely been so easy and rewarding for us before, all the pieces really clicked together this time." "Before the Bleeding Sun" track listing: 01. Sweet Lilith of My Dreams 02. Another Me 03. Red Dawn Rising 04. Upon the Moors 05. Sakura No Rei 06. Sinister Rain 07. Lost Rune of Thunder 08. Tar Still Flows 09. Angelheart, Ravenheart (Act I: Before the Bleeding Sun)
Guest vocalists: Lead vocals by Jarmo Kylmänen (SCYRON) and Miriam "Sfinx" Renvåg (RAM-ZET). Backing vocals by Jarmo Kylmänen, Miriam Renvåg, Tony Kakko (SONATA ARCTICA) and Marco Hietala (NIGHTWISH, TAROT). ETERNAL TEARS OF SORROW 2006: Altti Veteläinen (vocals, bass) Jarmo Puolakanaho (guitar) Risto Ruuth (lead guitar) Janne Tolsa (keyboards) Petri Sankala (drums)
A brand-new BLOODTHORN, track, entitled "Blood and Iron", has been made available for download ' . The song comes off the Norwegian death metal band's new album, "Genocide", due in Europe on February 20 (February 13 in U.K. and Norway) via Morningstar Records.
"Genocide" track listing: 01. ...For Those Whose Time Has Come (intro) 02. Blood and Iron 03. Invoking the Apocalypse 04. Nightmare of Violence 05. They Will Arise 06. Forced Selfmutilation 07. Sacrifical Slaughter 08. Hell on the Eastern Front 09. Monolith of the Dead
SPV Records has set an April 21 German release date for the new MOONSPELL album, entitled "Memorial". The CD was recorded at Woodhouse Studios in Hagen, Germany with producer Waldemar Sorychta (LACUNA COIL, TIAMAT, GRIP INC.) and will contain around 8 to 10 new songs, including "Once It Was Ours!", "Blood Tells", "Sanguine", "Finisterra", "Upon the Blood of Men" and "At the Image of Pain". The material is being described by the group as "the best music we ever wrote together" and "an homage to the Nineties scene and bands," of which they became a strong symbol of. A DVD, entitled "Lunar Still/13 Years of Doom", is expected to surface via Century Media later in the year.
Upcoming MOONSPELL shows:
Mar. 02 - Budapest, HUN @ Petofi Hall (Metalmania) Mar. 04 - Katowice, POL @ Spodek 4 (Metalmania) Mar. 10 - St. Petersburg, RUS @ Port Club Mar. 11 - Moscow, RUS @ Tochka Club Jun. 03 - Casablanca, MOR @ COC Stadium Jun. 23 - Dessel, BEL @ Graspop Metal Meeting Aug. 17-19 - Abtsgmünd, GER @ Summer Breeze Festival
Шведские металлеры SATARIEL подписали контракт с Pulverized Records на выпуск mini-CD, состоящего из четырех совершенно новых трэков. Запись альбома начнется 16-го февраля. Новая информация относительно релиза появится вскоре.
Dutch rock act THE GATHERING will release their new album, "Home" (view cover at this location) on April 18 via The End Records in North America.
"Home" track listing: 01. Shortest Day 02. In Between 03. Alone 04. Waking Hour 05. Fatigue 06. A Noise Severe 07. Forgotten 08. Solace 09. Your Troubles Are Over 10. Box 11. The Quiet One 12. Home 13. Forgotten Reprise
THE GATHERING will make their debut at this year's South By Southwest Music Festival in Austin, Texas on March 16, 2006 at Lava Lounge. Also participating are fellow lablemates GREEN CARNATION, UNEXPECT and GIANT SQUID.
A brand-new TEXTURES song, entitled "Regenesis", has been made available for download at VS-Webzine.com. The track comes off the Dutch progressive metallers' upcoming album, "Drawing Circles", due on April 17 via Listenable Records.
"Chris Caffery is entering the studio in New York City on February 8th to begin the recording of his next CD "Pins and Needles". The CD is going to be released world-wide in October 2006. Some of the song titles are "The Temple", "S.A.D", "WORMS", "Mettle Eastern", "The Sign of The Crossed" and the title track "Pins and Needles".
Musicians will feature once again Jeff Plate on Drums, Paul Morris on keyboards, Nick Douglas from Doro on bass and some very special guests!
German industrial metallers RAMMSTEIN have revealed the complete track listing for the third single from their "Rosenrot" album. "Mann Gegen Mann" will be released in a limited digipack version and will contain the original version of the title cut, a live video of "Ich Will" recorded on the "Reise, Reise - Tour" 2005 as well as remixes by Vince Clarke (DEPECHE MODE, ERASURE) and Sven Helbig (Dresdner Sinfoniker). An exact release date for the single will be announced soon.
"Mann Gegen Mann" (view cover here) track listing: 01. Mann Gegen Mann (3:51) 02. Mann Gegen Mann - Popular Music Mix by Vince Clarke (4:06) 03. Mann Gegen Mann - Musensohn Remix by Sven Helbig (3:12) 04. Ich Will - Live (Video) at Festival de Nimes (4:02)
A video for "Mann Gegen Mann" by famed Swedish director Jonas Åkerlund (METALLICA, SATYRICON, MADONNA, THE PRODIGY) was recently shot and received its premiere on MTV Germany on Wednesday (Feb. 1).
German metallers WARHEAD, whose original lineup included current REBELLION frontman Björn Eilen, have revealed several songtitles from their upcoming fourth album, tentatively due later in the year. The follow-up to 2000's "Beyond Recall" will contain the following tracks, among others: "Into The Abyss", "Thanx Killing", "Battle Royale", "Deatheater", "Phantoms", "Lies!", "Captured" and "City Of God".
WARHEAD recently parted ways with guitarist Stefan due to musical differences. A replacement axeman has not yet been announced.
Swedish black/death metallers THE LEGION, featuring current MARDUK drummer Emil Dragutinovic, will release their sophomore album, "Revocation", on February 27 via Listenable Records. The artwork was once again designed by Kris Verwimp (MARDUK, ABSU, IMMORTAL), who had previously worked with the group on their debut album, "Unseen to Creation".
Swedish metallers STEEL ATTACK have finalized the track listing for their fifth full-length album, "Diabolic Symphony", due on April 21 via Massacre Records. The follow-up to 2004's "Enslaved" was recorded at Black Lounge Studio in Sweden with engineer Jonas Kjellgren and features "hard riffs combined with rich melodies and brilliant metal," according to guitarist Johan Jalonen Penn.
"Diabolic Symphony" track listing:
01. Diabolic Symphony 02. Dead Forever 03. Shallow Seas Of Hatred 04. Dreaming 05. Embraced By Fear 06. Invisible God 07. Sanctimonious 08. Haunting 09. Show Me The Way 10. Winter Hell 11. I Bow My Head In Shame 12. The Other Side
STEEL ATTACK's fourth album, "Enslaved" was issued in October 2004 via Arise Records. The album was supported by a 12-day European tour with Germany BLACK ABYSS and Canada's EXCITER.
STEEL ATTACK is:
Anden Andersson - Bass John Allan - Guitar Ronny Hemlin – Vocals Johan Jalonen Penn - Guitar Tony Elfving – Drums
Karl Logan, lead guitarist of heavy metal powerhouse MANOWAR, was injured on Tuesday, January 24th 2006 in a motorcycle accident. Logan sustained severe injuries to his left arm, which will prevent him from performing for an as-yet-unknown period of time. MANOWAR will have to reconsider all of our plans, but the good news is that Karl is ok and he'll be back stronger than ever," says MANOWAR bassist Joey DeMaio.
Logan was preparing to record his lead guitar parts for the upcoming, yet to be named, MANOWAR album, the release of which will now be delayed. Touring plans are also expected to change as a result of this unfortunate turn of events. However, MANOWAR will soldier on. We don't have any more information at this time," says DeMaio. But nothing ever has, or ever will, stop MANOWAR." More information will be released as it becomes available.
STREAM OF PASSION, Ayreon mastermind Arjen Anthony Lucassen's band around Mexican singer Marcela Bovio will do an European tour at the end of January. They will perform material of their debut album "Embrace The Storm" which came out in October as well as selected Ayreon songs. And special guest is: Damian Wilson (formerly with Threshold).
On February 10th the single "Out In The Real World" is released. Apart from an edit of the album's title track the single also includes two re-arranged Ayreon songs as well as the Led Zeppelin cover version "When The Levee Breaks".
Due to time problems with the final mix, the release of the new VANDEN PLAS album had to be postponed. "Christ 0" ("Christ Zero") comes out at the end of April. The album's concept is based on Alexandre Dumas' novel classic "The Count of Monte Christo". The first edition is released in a worthy slipcase with bonus track.
1. Christ 0 (music: G. Werno/lyrics: A. Kuntz) 2. Postcard To God (music: S. Lill/lyrics: A. Kuntz) 3. Wish You Were Here (music: G. Werno/lyrics: A. Kuntz) 4. Silently (music: S. Lill/lyrics: A. Kuntz) 5. Shadow I Am (music: S. Lill/lyrics: A. Kuntz) 6. Fireroses Dance (music: G. Werno/lyrics: A. Kuntz) 7. Somewhere Alone In The Dark (music: S. Lill/lyrics: A. Kuntz) 8. January Sun (music: A. Kuntz, G. Werno/lyrics: A. Kuntz) 9. Lost In Silence (music: A. Kuntz /lyrics: A. Kuntz)
Bonus track on initial pressing: Gethsemane (lyrics: Tim Rice/music: Andrew Lloyd Webber)
As most of you know, drummer Marty O'Shea amicably split with THE ETERNAL to be replaced by the hard-hitting Pete Marin. Pete earned Marty's hearty seal of approval after seeing him play at Pete's first show in December of last year. Pete has fit exceptionally well into the band. Also, THE ETERNAL has made a video clip from their second album 'Sleep of Reason' for the track 'Everlasting'. It is on-line at their website. THE ETERNAL's album 'Sleep of Reason' is set for release in Australia in the not too distant future.
Danish extreme metallers PANZERCHRIST have commenced the recording sessions for their new album, "Batallion Beast" — the group's first release with newly recruited drummer Bent Nyeng (also of DIE) and keyboard player Dea Lillelund (also in FAIRYTALE ABUSE). The lyrics to the follow-up to 2003's "Room Service" (Mighty Music) will apparently be completely in German, according to a posting on the band's web site.
PANZERCHRIST's new album is being recorded at Antfarm Studio in Aarhus, Denmark with producer Tue Madsen. An spring/summer release through Neurotic Records is expected.
SAATTUE, the Finnish band featuring former and current members of such underground acts as YEARNING, LET ME DREAM, ULTRAMAYHEM ORGANISATION and BRAINDRAIN, have completed work on a new three-song promotional CD containing the cuts "Luutarhuri", "Ikiuneen" and "Kaaosmaa".
SAATTUE have undergone several lineup changes since the release of their last EP, "Kivisydän", but musically the band "keep on producing the same doomy metal with Finnish lyrics as earlier," according to a press release. A full-length MP3 of the song "Luutarhuri" can be downloaded at this location.
Drummer of MENTAL DEMISE left the band few days ago. He will be replaced by Alexander Silver, who played in DISORDER DEFECTION, BRILLIANT COLDNESS and CATALEPTIC.
French progressive metallers ADAGIO will release their new album, "Dominate", in France on March 27 through a new label called Double Vision (via Sony/BMG distribution). A French tour will follow beginning in Paris on June 28 or June 29 and will continue in September. "Dominate" was released in Japan in December via Avalon/Marquee. The CD was produced by Stephan Forté and Kevin Codfert, and was mixed at House of Audio Studios in Germany by Dennis Ward. "Dominate" is ADAGIO's first CD with new frontman Gus Monsanto. The band parted ways with singer David Readman (PINK CREAM 69) in July 2004 due to "professional differences." As previously reported, ADAGIO will open for former LED ZEPPELIN frontman Robert Plant on March 24 in Tunis, Tunisia as part of the "International Mediterranean Guitar Festival".
Finnish vanguard black/doom masters DOLORIAN will release their new album 'Voidwards' in the near future on Avantgarde Records. Recently, their website has been updated and several samples of songs from the new album have been put online. Click on the link below to visit the site and get a taste of the new material.
Also, Lake of Depression signed a contract with the new Russian label Endless Desperation Prods. for the release of a four-way split CD of 100% Funeral Doom along with Nocturne, Quasar, and Source of Deep Shadows. This will be a limited edition release of 500 copies of which Lake of Depression will themselves have several for distribution. This split is scheduled for release in late February or early March 2006.
"......Mike from YOB here. As many of you know Isamu and Travis left YOB in July of 2005. Many people have contacted me wanting to try out for the band, and I did try some people out. At the end of the day, the thing that feels best to me is to call it a day with YOB. The only way I feel I can move forward musically is to let YOB`s history stand on it`s own and move on with a new band.
This band will be called Age and I will be recording demos to submit to labels within a few months. This music will be very much in the vein of YOB, with new vibes and twists... and always utterly DOOMED......"
The upcoming album 'Risus ex Mortuus' will be released by the Russian label Endless Desperation Records. The album is a re-recording of the bands first demo and subsequent initial self-release, which did not recieve widespread distribution. The album will also include a previously unreleased track and a cover of "God of Thunder" by KISS. Anticipated release date is late February or early March.
Belgian doomsters Thee Plague of Gentlemen have signed a deal with France's Listenable Records. The band's second full-length album, 'SerpentCult' is scheduled for release later in the year. Thee Plague of Gentlemen will also appear as themselves in the upcoming Herman Brusselmans film "Ex Drummer" and have a song on the movie's soundtrack. "Ex Drummer" is expected to receive a theatrical release in Belgium and The Netherlands in December 2006.
Second part of WolfSong Compilation has been released by underground label Wolfsong Productions (Dnipropetrovsk, Ukraine) 14 tracks are present there: most of them belong to ukrainian groups. here they are: Flying (melodic death), Grimfaith (gothic/doom), Stormhold (death/thrash), Vae Solis (sympho black), Neophyte (death), Brilliant Coldness (brutal death), Capitollium (sympho black), Dragobrath (black), Kroda (folk/black), Gates of Hate (slavonic black), Crash Syndrom (death), Dusk Chapel (death/black), Datura (brutal death/grind), Berserk (death).
YYRKOON track, entitled "From the Dephts", has been made available for download at ' . The song comes off the French death metal band's new CD, "Unhearthly Opera", due February 20 via Osmose Productions. The album's cover artwork can be found at this location. The follow-up to 2004's "Occult Medicine" was recorded at Hansen studios in Ribe, Denmark and features a guest appearance by KING DIAMOND guitarist Andy LaRocque on the song "Horror from the Sea".
"Unealthy Opera" track listing: 01. Something Breathes 02. Unhealthy Opera 03. From the Depths 04. Avatar Ceremony 05. Temple of Infinity 06. Abnormal Intrusion 07. Screaming Shores 08. The Book 09. Horror from the Sea 10. Lair... 11. ...Of Madness 12. Injecting Dementia
A limited digipack edition containing a bonus track called "Signs" will also be available.
YYRKOON is the main band of ABORTED guitarist Stephane Soutey
Norway's THEATRE OF TRAGEDY have finalized the track listing for their new album, "Storm", due in Germany and Switzerland on Friday, March 24 via AFM Records. The rest of Europe will follow on Monday, March 27. A U.S. release date will be announced later. The CD was produced by Rico Darum and mixed by Greg Reely (PARADISE LOST, FEAR FACTORY, FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY, SKINNY PUPPY, etc.) at The Green Jacket studios in Richmond, B.C., Canada. A single, "Storm", is scheduled for release on February 24 via AFM Records/Soulfood. In addition to the title cut (check out audio sample at this location), the single will include a club remix of "Storm", another album track ("Begin and End"), and an exclusive song that will only be available on this single, entitled "Beauty in Deconstruction". A video for "Storm" will be shot in the near future.
"Storm" track listing: 01. Storm 02. Silence 03. Ashes and Dreams 04. Voices 05. Fade 06. Begin & End 07. Senseless 08. Exile 09. Disintegration 10. Debris
The limited edition will have one bonustrack called "Highlights". More soundclips will follow soon.
Dynamic Arts Records has set a January 27 Finnish release date (March 24 in Germany, Austria, Switzerland) for the new album from Finnish atmospheric doom metallers SILENTIUM, entitled "Seducia". The CD is the sequel to the "Frostnight" single, which came out in October. According to a Dynamic Arts press release, the album "delivers bombastical, cold atmospheres" with a total running time of 48 minutes.
"Seducia" is the group's first full-length release to feature vocalist Riina Rinkinen, who joined the group in July 2004.
"Seducia" track listing:
01. Hangman's Lullaby 02. Serpentized 03. Dead Silent 04. Unbroken 05. Frostnight 06. Children Of Chaos 07. Empress Of The Dark 08. Seducia
MY DARKEST HATE, the German death metal band featuring former PRIMAL FEAR drummer Klaus Sperling and members of SACRED STEEL, have uploaded the cover artwork for their fourth album, "Combat Area", at this location (artwork by Ahmet Meran Karanitant).
"Combat Area" is scheduled for release on March 24 via Massacre Records. The band recorded the follow-up to 2004's "At War" at Stage One studios in Borgentreich, Germany with producer Andy Classen (CALLENISH CIRCLE, TANKARD, OCCULT). "Andy did an awesome job — the result is just a real killer!!!" the group write on their web site.
"Combat Area" track listing (not final order):
01. Enter Combat 02. When Smoke Has Settled 03. Bow Before Me 04. Nothing Lasts Forever 05. They Shall Fall 06. Number Seven 07. Fall of Eden 08. Under My Wing 09. The Principle of War 10. Under One Flag
Finnish "stoner rockers" MANNHAI, whose current lineup includes singer Pasi Koskinen (ex-AMORPHIS, AJATTARA), have posted an audio sample of their new single, "Spaceball", at this location. The song comes off the group's new album, "Hellroad Caravan" due in Finland on February 15. The "Spaceball" single will precede the album on Wednesday, January 18. "This is the first release from the upcoming full-length album, and will also include a fine and an exclusive bonus track, 'The Rocketeer'," the band write on their web site.
"Hellroad Caravan" track listing: 01. Shellshock 02. Fuzzmaster 03. Spaceball 04. Dambuster 05. Better Hate Yesterday 06. Back in the Red 07. Mojo Runner 08. Overdaze 09. Rock in a Cradle 10. Hall of the Dead
As previously reported, MANNHAI's new album was recorded at Jive Studios in Helsinki. The band describe the material as "heavier and more guitar-driven" than that on the previous CD, 2004's "The Exploder".
MASTERPLAN vocalist Jorn Lande (ex-ARK, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN) will release his fourth solo album, "The Duke", shortly through Germany's AFM Records. The CD was produced by Lande and PAGAN'S MIND guitarist Jörn Viggo Lofstad, and was mixed at Jailhouse Studios in Denmark by Tommy Hansen. Recording musicians include:
Jorn Lande (vocals) Jörn Viggo Lofstad (PAGAN'S MIND) - Guitar Tore Moren (CARNIVORA) - Guitar Morty Black (TNT) - Bass Willy Bendiksen (COMPANY OF SNAKES) -Drums
Also featured on drums is Stian Kristoffersen of PAGAN'S MIND and FIREWIND, who appears on a newly recorded version of "Starfire", from Lande's debut, and the tracks "Stormcrow" and "After the Dying".
"The Duke" track listing:
01. We Brought the Angels Down 02. Blacksong 03. Stormcrow 04. End of Time 05. Duke of Love 06. Burning Chains 07. After the Dying 08. Midnight Madness 09. Are You Ready (THIN LIZZY cover) 10. Starfire (2005 version) 11. Noose (Japan only)
Norwegian extreme metallers ENSLAVED have set "Ruun" as the title of their new album, tentatively due on May 8 via Tabu. The recordings for the follow-up to the band's Norwegian Grammy- and Alarm award-winning album "Isa" (2004) began a week ago at Amper Studio in Oslo, Norway and the band Сalready feel confident that this will be a monumental album!" according to a posting on the group's web site. "The drums are finished, and the guitars are being recorded at this very moment."
"Ruun" will be mixed at Propeller Studios in Oslo by Mike Hartung and mastered at the Cutting Room in Stockholm, Sweden. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Path of Vanir" and "Essence", both of which the band are planning on shooting videos for.
Former HIRAX guitarist Glenn Rogers has officially joined ONCE DEAD, the Christian metal band featuring former members of VENGEANCE RISING. "Glenn, as most of you know, was one of the original founding members of VENGEANCE, and had written many of the songs with us prior to Roger Martinez, Larry Farkas and Glen Mancaruso joining the group," guitarist Doug Thieme writes on the band's web site. "Glenn left our group to join DELIVERANCE, and then later joined HIRAX.
"The addition of Glenn offers us an incredibly talented guitarist, an awesome song writer, as well as a longtime friend. We are very excited about Glenn joining us and we look forward to working with him on the upcoming album.
Sweden's THE QUILL have set "In Triumph" as the title of their fifth album, due on April 7 via SPV/Steamhammer. The CD was recorded at Area 51 studios in Celle, Germany with producer Tommy Newton (VICTORY, UFO, HELLOWEEN).
"In Triumph" track-listing: 01. Keep The Circle Whole 02. Yeah 03. Slave/Master 04. Broken Man 05. Man In Mind 06. Merciless Room 07. Trespass 08. Black 09. No Light On The Dark Side 10. In The Shadows 11. Down
DARKTHRONE have dedicated a new song on their upcoming album The Cult Is Alive (out Feb. 27th, 2006 on Peaceville) to fallen guitar hero Denis D'Amour (aka Piggy) and his pioneering metal band VOIVOD.
Danish/Swedish prog-metallers BEYOND TWILIGHT have completed work on the vocal recording for their new album, tentatively due later in the year. "Everything went easy and well," the band write on their web site. "The vocals was recorded in just a couple of days. Björn [Jansson, singer] has made the most outstanding vocals. Pulling it off in just a couple of days he showed he is made of the same thing as the rest of the band. The band met in the weekend and had a great time together. Only thing left now is the mixing sessions which has already started."
Björn Jansson joined BEYOND TWILIGHT in early January as the replacement for Kelly Sundown Carpenter (also of OUTWORLD).
BEYOND TWILIGHT's most recent album, "Section X", was issued in 2005 via Massacre Records.
VREID, the new Norwegian band formed by former WINDIR members Hváll (bass), Steingrim (drums) and Sture (vocals, guitar), have posted the following message on their official web site:
"We have been working in our dungeon (studio 1184) with our second album since September. The recordings were finished by late November, and we have now been mixing the album for a couple of weeks. The mixing of the album was done at Subsonic Society studio together with Lars Klokkerhaug. Working with Lars was a pleasure as always. We feel that we have really found the formula and the right sound for this album; raw, powerful and grooving as hell. The last step of the process is the mastering of the album. On the 20th of January we will go to Tailor Maid studio in Stockholm and put the last make up on this beast. Release is set [for] March 27, 2006 through Tabu Records and worldwide distribution by Candlelight Records."
Entitled "Pitch Black Brigade", the album will contain the following eight songs:
01. Då Draumen Rakna 02. Pitch Black 03. Left To Hate 04. The Red Smell 05. Hengebjørki 06. Our Battle 07. Hang ‘Em All 08. Eit Kapitell For Seg Sjølv
BATTERED, the new Norwegian band featuring former EINHERJER members Frode Glesnes (a.k.a. Grimar, vocals/guitar), Aksel Herløe (guitar) and Gerhard Storesund (a.k.a. Vivar, drums), have uploaded a preview of the cover artwork for their upcoming self-titled debut album at this location (artwork conceived by Terje Johnsen).
"Battered" was recorded at Sifa Lydstudio and was mixed at Top Room Studio with producer Børge Finstad. The CD is scheduled for release in Norway on February 25, in Europe on March 13 and in the U.S. on April 14 via Candlelight Records.
BATTERED recently teamed up with producer Rome Ramsies of Vision Valley to shoot a video for the song "Not One" from the group's debut album. "The whole video was shot in bluescreen and the CGI will be done in Australia," the band write on their web site. The clip is expected to premiere in February.
BATTERED's current lineup is rounded out by bassist Ole Moldesæther and vocalist Sigurd Olaisen (HEADBLOCK).
Tentative track listing for BATTERED's debut album (in no particular order):
01. Oblivion Awaits 02. New Lament 03. Industrial Killing 04. The Flagellant 05. Not One 06. Perfect Illusion 07. The Dig 08. Demagog 09. Parasight 10. Derelict
This message has been posted on KAMELOT's official website:
"KAMELOT is pleased to announce their first Live DVD filming this February 11th, 2006 at Rockefeller Music Hall, in Oslo, Norway. The shoot will be handled by acclaimed director Patric Ullaeus and promises to be full of surprises for all the fans. "This has been in the works now for more than 2 years and we are very pleased to have all the gears in motion now. This will be a very, very special event for us and all the fans of the band" - states guitarist Thomas Youngblood. According to lead singer Roy Khan the crew is already in full swing preparing for the show in Oslo, most certainly destined to be another milestone in the career of the band.
More details are expected for this much anticipated DVD, including track listings, bonus footage and special guest appearances. Release date is scheduled for Summer/Fall 2006 via SPV Records."
The MetalList just got exclusively the information, that Ukrainian black metal band Nokturnal Mortum guitarist parted ways with the group, due to his chemical researches. This was the source of a cobflict. Due to this loss, band will stop their concert activity for some time (but next fue gigs will be played with this guitarist).
More information to be posted soon. Wait for the interview with Nokturnal Mortum on The MetalList!
DARK MOOR has begun writing new material for their next album, wich is planned to be recorded by the second half of this year 2006. Right now, the band is looking for a new label through his management agency Metallian, after the ending of their contract with Arise Records.
Mexican Label Witchcraft Records (sub-label American Line Productions) has released new album of one-man project TANGORODREAM from Dotetsk (Ukraine), named as "Twilight Before Sunrise" . CD includes doom metal 10 tracks in best traditions of Katatonia, Moonspell, Serenades. Also the cover-song to "Alma Mater" (originally by MOONSPELL) is present. see more here '
The Finnish doom band Night Must Fall have re-released their demo 'Night Must Fall' on the Russian label Endless Desperation, the cd also contains the rare EP 'Funeral of Mankind' as a bonus.
The cd comes with a 4 page booklet and the first 20 copies of the cd will be autographed by the band.
The recording for the upcoming Solitude Aeturnus album 'Alone', has been delayed.
From the Solitude Aeturnus newsletter; "Our apologies to everyone yet once again for another delay in getting this recording for 'Alone' started. We are more than ready but we're having to deal with some red-tape legal paperwork before we can start. It's not something we have control over unfortunately.
Before we can get the necessary money to start recording we must first have these blasted forms/paperwork filled out for Massacre. Without going into every sordid and boring detail, let's just say that something went wrong with the necessary forms and we're having to go through the process again, which takes about 4 weeks to complete.
So - our plan (assuming all goes well!) is to start the recording process in mid January. Believe me, we're dying to get this album DONE! The material is stronger than ever and I personally cannot wait to sit around and listen to the album in the comfort of my own home while drinking some powerful british ale, partaking of sacred herb and letting the fists bang the air in a rage of doom metal madness! Yes!! Patience is wearing thin. I'm sure as bold as this will sound - the wait will be worth it.
In nomine heavynay John Perez/Solitude Aeturnus"
Sad news indeed for us fans, the demo song "Sightless" from the album, is however available on the Brainticket website:http://www.brainticket.com/shopbt/ , it might make the wait easier.
Börje "Boss" Forsberg, owner of Black Mark Records and father of late BATHORY mainman Thomas "Quorthon" Forsberg, has issued the following statement regarding plans for new BATHORY merchandise and album releases:
"Dearest BATHORY friends, I would like to thank all of you for your supports all the time. All your condolences signed by thousands of letters, e-mails or in any other forms made all of us feel strong. It has been impossible for me to thank all of you the personally way, though I wish I could.
"Many of you asked new material from BATHORY. The 'Bathory - In Memory Of Quorthon' shirt comes to be released first. The shirt shall mind the memory of Quorthon. Kristian Wåhlin, who painted for 'Blood On Ice' and 'Nordland', did paint the motif after the instructions Quorthon left to him few weeks before he died. This artwork was meant to cover the next upcoming BATHORY album.
"I temporary since months work with the 'Bathory – In Memory Of Quorthon' box. It comes to be Quorthon's and BATHORY's completed musical history. Not much informations to be announced right now. It is a very big production, it takes up a great deal of my time to join the musical part with the historical part. The discography alone allready covers 64 pages. Throughout working with all the stuff, I feel Quorthon's on my very side. I’m that sure you all will appreciate the release of the Box I did in memory of Quorthon. More information: to be announced."
The "Bathory - In Memory of Quorthon" t-shirts are available in the "Shop" area of ' .
Quorthon was found dead in his apartment in Stockholm, Sweden on June 7, 2004. The 39-year-old, widely considered to be one of black metal's founding fathers, reportedly died of heart failure.
Sweden's AMON AMARTH have posted the following message on their official web site:
"Well, the U.S. tour is over for this time. We've had a fucking great time during these six weeks, and we'd like to thank CHILDREN OF BODOM and their crew for a fantastic tour. Thanks also to TRIVIUM with crew, and good luck on the IN FLAMES tour. Last but not least, thanks to all you fans — old and new — who came to the shows and made every one of them a magical experiense! Special thanks to those of you who bought us beers and booze. We truly appreciate it, and we hope to see you all next time around!
"The plan now is to take a couple of weeks off, before we start working on the new album in January. The recording is scheduled for May/June this year.
"We wish you all the best for the end of this year, and a great 2006!"
AMON AMARTH's latest album, "Fate of Norns", is available on Metal Blade Records.
Polish extreme metallers BEHEMOTH have finally returned home after completing an 11-week North American trek consisting of 54 shows in both the U.S. (as part of Blackest of the Black tour) and Canada (where they headlined). This tour marked the longest the band had ever been away from their homes.
Commented BEHEMOTH mainman Nergal: "We fuckin' did it! After doing all the U.S. dates, we headed to Canada, where NECRONOMICON joined the tour. And from day one, the whole tour has been a real battle, I can tell you the Canadian weather, especially in these month,s is really friendly. There were places where we had to load in and out in –20 Celsius. Most of the 'venues' were small shitty bars with no real P.A., no backstage, no lighting system. Simply nothing. That's what we used to call the Spartan way, ha ha. But then, pretty much EVERYWHERE people were simply awesome and their endless support and dedication paid off even the harshest conditions! I'm proud. We succeeded. We fuckin' went there, played 26 shows, froze our asses to ice but we fuckin' did it! I hope you crazy fucks appreciate this effort and had at least as much fun as we had, ha ha.
"We'd like to thank our agents, First Row and BCI for putting this tour together, Century Media for making it feel like at home, dudes from NECRONOMICON for all the fun and help, and last but not least, ALL the people who showed up and paid their heavy duty! Keep it up!"
Upcoming BEHEMOTH shows:
Dec. 17 - Bronx Club – Istanbul, TUR Dec. 18 - Golge Bar – Ankara, TUR Dec. 30 – Kolinsgborg – Stockholm, SWE (w/ DISSECTION) Jan. 06 - Enigma Bar – Adelaide, AUS Jan. 07 - The Esplanade Hotel – Melbourne, AUS Jan. 08 - The Tote – Melbourne, AUS (under-18 afternoon show) Jan. 10 - Black Betty’s – Perth, AUS Jan. 13 - Her Majestys Bar – Brisbane, AUS Jan. 14 - Gaelic Club – Sydney, AUS (all-ages mini-festival)
Finnish folk-influenced melodic death metal band ENSIFERUM, now featuring in its ranks NORTHER frontman Petri Lindroos, have completed work on their new EP, "Dragonheads", due on February 15, 2006 via Spinefarm Records. The mini-CD was recorded and mixed in November at Sonic Pump studios in Helsinki by Nino Laurenne (THUNDERSTONE) and was mastered by Mika Jussila at Finnvox Studios. It will contain one new track, new studio recordings of several old demo songs, and a couple of traditional Finnish folk covers.
"Dragonheads" track listing:
01. Dragonheads 02. Warrior's Quest 03. Kalevala-Melody 04. White Storm 05. Into Hiding (AMORPHIS cover) 06. Finnish Medley (Karjalan Kunnailla - Myrskyluodon Maija - Metsämiehen Laulu)
Commented ENSIFERUM mainman Markus Toivonen: "I think the sound and musical contents on 'Dragonheads' are quite satisfactory. Everything went very smoothly, although I had my doubts as we now had three new members since we were at studio for the previous time."
The group's next full-length release is scheduled to be recorded in the summer of 2006. A European tour is tentatively slated to kick off in March 2006.
As previously reported, ENSIFERUM will film their New Year's Eve (Dec. 31) 10-year anniversary concert at the Nosturi in Helsinki, Finland for an upcoming DVD.
ENSIFERUM's sophomore album, "Iron", was released in April 2004 through Spinefarm Records. The follow-up to 2001's "Ensiferum" was recorded in the summer of 2003 at Sweet Silence studios in Copenhagen, Denmark with producer Flemming Rasmussen (METALLICA, ARTILLERY, MORBID ANGEL).
German "dark Satanic metal band" MYSTIC CIRCLE have finished recording their seventh full-length album, "The Bloody Path of God", due on February 27, 2006 via Dockyard 1, the new company formed by Dirk Putzke, Christine Stephan (both ex-Sanctuary/Noise Records) and Piet Sielck (IRON SAVIOR). The new CD was recorded at a studio in Ludwigshafen, Germany with former MYSTIC CIRCLE drummer Necrodemon at the production helm. The album contains nine songs, two intros and a cover version of CELTIC FROST's "Circle of the Tyrants". "The new songs are really a blast," the band write on their web site. "It shows the developement from the band all over the years and you can expect killer songs."
MYSTIC CIRCLE issued a "best of" album, entitled "Mystic Circle Unholy Chronicles 1992–2004", in November 2004 via Massacre Records. The CD, which contains 18 songs spanning the group's entire career, includes a bonus DVD, featuring concert and backstage footage, as well as interviews and a video clip.
In case you are not yet absolutely convinced that Finland is the "most heavy metal" country in the world, look no further than this week's official Top 40 single chart (view chart here). Topping the Finnish national chart for the second consecutive week is DIABLO's new single, "Mimic 47", with AJATTARA's (the Finnish "black/dark metal" project featuring former AMORPHIS frontman Pasi Koskinen) Christmas single, "Joulusingle 2005", occupying the No. 2 slot and CHILDREN OF BODOM's "In Your Face" at No. 3. (Note: MADONNA's new single, "Hung Up", is at No. 5.)
As previously reported, DIABLO's new single, "Mimic 47", is available for streaming at this location. The song is the title cut of the Finnish metallers' new album, due in Finland on January 18, 2006 via Gaga Goodies/Poko. The album's first single, "Mimic 47" is backed with a cover of DURAN DURAN's "A View to a Kill".
"Mimic 47" is the follow-up to "Eternium", which received a wider European release through Drakkar Entertainment in September 2004. That album debuted on the Finnish album chart at position No. 3 after it was issued in Finland in January 2004.
U.K.-based black/death quintet BAL-SAGOTH have set "The Chthonic Chronicles" as the title of their long-awaited sixth album, tentatively due in early 2006 via Nuclear Blast Records.
"The Chthonic Chronicles" track listing:
01. The Sixth Adulation of His Chthonic Majesty 02. Invocations Beyond The Outer-World Night 03. Six Score and Ten Oblations to a Malefic Avatar 04. The Obsidian Crown Unbound 05. The Fallen Kingdoms of the Abyssal Plain 06. Shackled to the Trilithon of Kutulu 07. The Hammer of the Emperor 08. Unfettering the Hoary Sentinels of Karnak 09. To Storm the Cyclopean Gates of Byzantium 10. Arcana Antediluvia 11. Beneath the Crimson Vaults Of Cydonia 12. Return to Hatheg-Kla
Dreamland are still looking forward their gig supporting Nocturnal Rites in Gothenburg on December 15th at Musikens Hus. The video to their stone-melting ballad "Fade Away" is now online on our pagewww.dockyard1.com/dreamland attention: video pops up in seperate window).
After their performance at the Danish Metal Awards, an event broadcasted live on Danish National Radio P3, AS WE FIGHT won the DMeA2005 award for "Best Live Band". AS WE FIGHT scored the title against hard competition, among the other nominees in the category were Hatesphere, Mercenary, Raunchy, Volbeat, Barcode and Mnemic.
UmeЕ's youngest, the thrash-oriented ASSAILANT named their debut album on Dockyard 1 "Nemesis Within". Currently singer Peder Sundqvist is recording his vocals at Hammer Music near Hamburg. Check for updates on the recording in their studio diary.
Next debut album, different direction. Belgium's LOST IN RHONE play beautiful and intense post-hardcore songs. Check the first track "Walk With Deadalus" on their Myspace-Profile. The debut album will be called "Beloved be the ones who sit down" and is in the mastering right now.
DEATH BEFORE DISCO entered the studio on December 1st to start the recording of their new album. The follow-up to the very well received "Party Bullet" will be produced by their drummer Ace Zec. According to the band, they'll record 12 songs, of which they'll choose the best 10 for the album. No title has been set so far.
Release Schedule
Out Now:
AFTER ALL - The Vermin Breed VANISHING POINT - Embrace The Silence DEATH BEFORE DISCO - Party Bullet IN-QUEST - The Comatose Quandaries AS WE FIGHT - Black Nails and Bloody Wrists INTEGRITY - Sliver In The Hands Of Time SAVAGE CIRCUS - Dreamland Manor DYECREST - This Is My World ANGEL CREW - One Life One Sentence PERSUADER - The Hunter A TRAITOR LIKE JUDAS - Nightmare Inc. DREAMLAND - Future's Calling
February 20, 2006 ABANDONED - tba LOST IN RHONE - Beloved be the ones who sit down MYSTIC CIRCLE - The Bloody Path Of God March 20, 2006
January 23 2006 would prabably be the hardest day for die-hard true black metal fans around the world due to release of DARKTHRONE's first ever single "Too Old, Too Cold":
1: Too Old, Too Cold 2: High On Cold War + 3: Love In A Void (Siouxsie & The Banshees Cover) + 4: Graveyard Slut (Nocturno on vocals) + + Exclusive to the single
Also coming soon is DARKTHRONE's first ever promo video for the track "Too Old, Too Cold".
Available as a CD single (CDVILES145) Limited Edition 12 on POLAR WHITE vinyl (CDVILEP145)
New DARKTHRONE's album "The Cult Is Alive" is scheduled for release on 27/02/06. Tracklisting:
1: The Cult Of Goliath 2: Too Old, Too Cold 3: Atomic Coming 4: Graveyard Slut (Fenriz on vocals) 5: Underdogs And Overlords 6: Whiskey Funeral 7: De Underjordiske 8: Tyster PЕ Gud 9: Shut Up 10: Forebyggende Krig
MIND'S EYE: is about to release their new album «Walking on H2O» (released through Lion Music on Jan 20th). As a preview the band is offering two free MP3's on their site. One is an album compilation while the other one is a complete track. The Nazca Lines which drummer/keyboardplayer Daniel Flores describes as “This is somehow the one song that shows most of all the great aspects appearing in the entire record, this is the closest we come to making the record of our dreams, enjoy!”
Album Track Listing:
Earth - The movie A rabbit in the hat Equally immortal Mrs. Clair voyance Sahara in an hourglass Out of my system Umbrellas under the sun Sacred rules The Nazca lines Flight of the An.unna.ki (Instrumental) Heal my karma When I whisper Poseidon says Bonus track: Sign o' the times
Canadian metal magazine Unrestrained! has named OPETH's "Ghost Reveries" the No. 1 Album of 2005 in their year-end issue that will be on stands December 15.
Unrestrained! Top 20 Albums Of 2005 (as chosen by the staff):
01. OPETH - Ghost Reveries (Roadrunner) 02. NEVERMORE - The Godless Endeavour (Century Media) 03. PRIMORDIAL - The Gathering Wilderness (Metal Blade) 04. CLUTCH - Robot Hive/Exodus (DRT) 05. LURKER OF CHALICE - Lurker Of Chalice (Southern Lord/Total Holocaust) 06. DEATHSPELL OMEGA - Kenose (N.E.D./Ajna Offensive) 07. CORROSION OF CONFORMITY - In The Arms Of God (Sanctuary) 08. HYPOCRISY - Virus (Nuclear Blast) 09. STRAPPING YOUNG LAD - Alien (Century Media) 10. BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME - Alaska (Victory) 11. DARK TRANQUILLITY - Character (Century Media) 12. ULVER - The Blood Inside (The End) 13. NAPALM DEATH - The Code Is Red... Long Live The Code (Century Media) 14. RAMMSTEIN - Rosenrot (Universal) 15. TORCHE - Torche (Robotic Empire) 16. GREEN CARNATION - The Quiet Offspring (The End Records) 17. LEAVES' EYES - Vinland Saga (Napalm) 18. JESU - Jesu (Hydra Head) 19. SLOUGH FEG - Atavism (Cruz Del Sur) 20. RED KNIFE LOTTERY - So Much Drama (Uprising)
Norwegian symphonic metal band TRISTANIA have posted the following message on their official web site:
"The band feels it is about time to reveal some more details regarding the upcoming album.
"It looks like it will be recorded in March, and they are happy to announce that it will be produced by Waldemar Sorychta [LACUNA COIL, TIAMAT, SAMAEL].
"For this last week they have been working together with him on the pre-production in their studio. The collaboration seems to work perfect, and they are now confident that he will be the perfect producer for them in order to achieve the best possible result.
"As Waldemar Sorychta has produced some of their favorite metal albums (SAMAEL's 'Ceremony of Opposites', MOONSPELL's 'Wolfheart', and TIAMAT's 'Wildhoney'), they already knew that he was a brilliant producer. It was a huge relief to find that they also are working very well together. In the end, it was exactly what they were hoping for.
"TRISTANIA is confident that next year's album will be a great one. The songs that are ready are really strong, and with Waldemar's skills added , everyone involved are sure it will be a killer."
TRISTANIA's most recent album, "Ashes", is available now on SPV Records
Moscow band LETHAL GUEST (Melodic-Death-Trash-Metal) finished the work with their first album «Suicide By The Other Side». You can listen 12 absolutely different, strong and melodic tracks. It was recorded at musicians' home studio, mastered and mixed at "Dai - records" studio. The album will be released on 2006 february oficial band site - '
Frontiers Records is pleased to announce all details of highly anticipated Toto's brand new studio album entitled Falling In Between. The record will include ten songs in the following track listing: Falling In Between . Dying On My Feet . Bottom Of Your Soul . King Of The World . Hooked . Simple Life . Taint Your World . Let It Go . Spiritual Man . No End In Sight. Release date in the whole of Europe and Australia has been set on February the 10, 2006. Domestic releases have been finalized in Japan (on King Records), South Korea (on Pony Canyon Records) and Russia (on IronD Records) with more deals to be announced in Eastern Asia, South America and South Africa.
The line-up for Falling In Between is: Steve Lukather guitars and vocals; David Paich keyboards and vocals; Mike Porcaro bass guitar; Simon Phillips drums; Bobby Kimball lead vocals; Greg Phillinganes keyboards and vocals. Special guests appearing on the album are: Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull), the Chicago horn section with Jason Scheff, L. Shankar (Peter Gabriel), Lenny Castro, Tom Scott and former members Joseph Williams and Steve Porcaro.
Sweden's WOLVERINE have posted the following message on their official web site:
"It's with mixed feelings we have to announce that WOLVERINE is no longer a part of Earache Records.
"We released 'Cold Light of Monday' through Earache and we also re-released 'The Window Purpose' through them, two albums that we are very proud of. However, during the last months it became obvious that Earache wasn't the right label for us and that they wouldn't do 'Still', our upcoming album, justice.
"Being without a label is of course not the most ideal of situations for a band but at the same time we are confident that we'll find a label that suits us much better than Earache did.
"We would like to appologize to the fans that have been expecting 'Still' to be released soon. We hope you find comfort in the fact that the entire band feels that parting ways with Earache was the only right decision to make. With a little luck the album will be out in a not too distant future. Hopefully you'll feel when you listen to it that it was worth the wait.
"The hunt for a new label is on. Wish us luck! We'll keep you posted!"
As previously reported, "Still" was recorded in part at Spacelab studio in Tönisvorst, Germany. The follow-up to 2003's "Cold Light of Monday" was produced by Oliver Philipps, Christian "Moschus" Moos and WOLVERINE and was mixed at the end of August.
”Still” track listing: 01. A House of Plague 02. Bleeding 03. Taste of Sand 04. Nothing More 05. Sleepy Town 06. Liar on the Mount 07. Hiding 08. This Cold Heart of Mine 09. And She Slowly Dies
Drummer Aquiles Priester (ANGRA), virtuoso keyboardist Richard Andersson (TIME REQUIEM, MAJESTIC, SPACE ODYSSEY) and vocalist Jonathan Murphy (MCBRAIN DAMAGE) are among the musicians contributing to the new demo recording from STYGIA, the project of Todd Seitz, an up-and-coming "shred" guitarist from Pittsburgh, PA.
According to Seitz, the STYGIA album will have a concept of Conan the Barbarian and the stories of Robert E. Howard. Todd's influences will combine to make a dark fantasy come to life in the form of progressive power metal.
Priester will be laying down drum tracks for the demo this month. Soon to follow, Andersson will be working on parts for the demo. Murphy will record vocals and Todd will be playing all guitar and bass parts. After the demo is complete, the grand lineup for STYGIA will be confirmed. There will be multiple vocalists and guest soloists on the album from many well-known metal bands. Most names will be kept confidential until a record deal is negotiated.
Legendary vocalist/bassist Glenn Hughes reports on his web site that he recently became godfather of his buddy/drummer Chad Smith's (RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS) son Cole."I thought you would like to see what a beautiful child my godson is," Glenn said. "I am proud to be godfather to our dear friend's Chad and Nancy Smith's boy Cole. He is the apple of my eye and a very good, sweet boy. I am very honored."
According to Billboard.com, Hughes is gearing up to record his next solo release, with the aid of Smith and RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS guitarist John Frusciante. The yet-to-be-titled release will be recorded in January and is on target for a May release.
"I've written more songs than ever before on this record," Hughes told Billboard.com. "[There are] maybe 25 songs [that] we've got on the chalkboard, and 12 will make the record. It's funk, rock, soul, and pop all mixed together in a big soup. I'm probably going to have some real strings and maybe some more orchestrated songs. This one, and I'll quote Chad here, is going to be the most varied record I've ever done."
The album will be recorded at Smith's home in the and is tipped to feature tracks like "Oil and Water", "Frail", "Black Light", "Stepping On" and "The Valiant Denial". Also playing on the set will be guitarist J.J. Marsh, who has appeared on Hughes' last several solo releases
Legendary death metallers CANNIBAL CORPSE have set "Kill" as the title of their tenth album, due on March 21 via Metal Blade Records. The CD is being recorded at Mana Studios in St. Petersburg, Florida with producer Erik Rutan (MORBID ANGEL, HATE ETERNAL).
With regards the CD's musical direction, the band had previously said, "We are doing everything we can to make sure it's the heaviest, most brutal one we've ever made."
CANNIBAL CORPSE have yet to announce a permanent replacement for guitarist Jack Owen, who left the band in 2004. The group have been utilizing session musicians for their recent touring activities, including Jeremy Turner (ex-ORIGIN) and Rob Barrett (who played with the band from 1993 to 1997 and appeared on "The Bleeding" and "Vile" albums).
A total of 30 metal, rock and punk writers at Sweden's Close–Up magazine have voted in the magazine's annual critics' album-of-the-year poll. The final results were as follows:
01. SYSTEM OF A DOWN – "Mezmerize" 02. OPETH – "Ghost Reveries" 03. NINE INCH NAILS – "With Teeth" 04. THE MARS VOLTA – "Frances the Mute" 05. MUNICIPAL WASTE – "Hazardous Mutation" 06. TURBONEGRO – "Party Animals" 07. NILE – "Annihilation of the Wicked" 08. HELLACOPTERS – "Rock & Roll Is Dead" 09. NEVERMORE – "This Godless Endeavor" 10. BLINDSIDE – "The Great Depression" 11. CANDLEMASS – "Candlemass" 12. DARK FUNERAL – "Attera Totus Sanctus" 13. QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE – "Lullabies to Paralyze" 14. ANNIHILATION TIME – "II" 15. BIG BUSINESS – "Head for the Shallow" 16. STATIC–X – "Start a War" 17. CROWBAR – "Lifesblood for the Downtrodden " 18. HYPOCRISY – "Virus" 19. PORCUPINE TREE – "Deadwing" 20. DOZER – "Through the Eyes of Heathens"
After long searches for the publisher for their last album "Holod" Novgorod (Russia) based band ECLESSIAST signed a deal with Solitude Productions. The full-length will be released tately this year, or early 2006. Follow our news! Label also plan to release the previous ECLESSIAST album, "Kogda Mertvye Vetvi Vospryanut Ot Snov" in summer 2006.
LEAVES' EYES male vocalist/programmer Alex Krull revealed to Germany's magazine that the group are planning on releasing a new mini-CD in early 2006. No further information is currently available.
In addition to Krull, LEAVES' EYES features Alex's wife Liv Kristine (ex-THEATRE OF TRAGEDY) as well as other members of Krull's long-running German metal outfit ATROCITY.
As previously reported, LEAVES' EYES and ATROCITY will be teaming up for a South American tour in April 2006. LEAVES' EYES' sophomore album, "Vinland Saga", was released in May via Napalm Records.
In a post on their website the band GAIA EPICUS announced their plans of recording a new album in 2006. The tentative title will be "Victory" and the tentative tracklist is as follow:
1. New Life 2. Iron Curtain 3. The Sign 4. Revenge Is Sweet 5. In Memory 6. Awaken The Monster 7. Rise Of The Empire 8. When Darkness Falls 9. Fortress Of Solitude 10. Through The Fire 11. Victory
On January 10, 2006, CHIMAIRA will release a special, limited edition, two-disc version of their critically acclaimed, self-titled third album. Featuring the full-length album, seven live songs and two previously unreleased tracks, the special edition of "Chimaira" will be packaged in an all-black, glossy jewel case. The follow-up to 2003's "Impossibility of Reason", the original version of "Chimaira", which was just named one of the year's best albums by both Revolver and Decibel magazines, was released on August 9, and debuted at No. 10 on the Top Hard Rock chart. In addition to the stellar first-week sales, the album, called "bleakly thrilling" by the New York Times, quickly ascended to #1 at Metal/Specialty Radio where it stayed for several weeks. CHIMAIRA is currently on a headlining tour overseas supporting the album and will be back in the States for their annual holiday shows taking place on December 29-30 at the Odeon in Cleveland, OH.
"We are extremely proud of this album," states vocalist Mark Hunter. "We poured our heart into these songs and are excited to give our fans something more for their money." The live songs, including "Power Trip", "Cleansation", "Severed", "Eyes of a Criminal", "Down Again", "The Dehumanizing Process" and "Pure Hatred", were culled from the band's DVD, "The Dehumanizing Process", which was recorded in Tilburg, Holland on October 6, 2003. "Clayden" and "Malignant" are two songs recorded during the "Chimaira" sessions that were not included on the original release. The special edition was released in very limited numbers overseas simultaneously with the regular version that was available in the States.
SILENT VOICES, the Finnish melodic metal band featuring SONATA ARCTICA keyboardist keyboardist Henrik Klingenberg, REQUIEM/MENTAL CARE FOUNDATION bassist Pasi Kauppinen and SENTIMENT singer Michael Henneken, have completed work on their third album. Entitled "Building up the Apathy" the CD's musical direction is being described as "considerably more progressive" than that on the group's previous album, 2004's "Infernal".
"Building up the Apathy" was recorded at Studio 57 by Kauppinen, mixed at Sonic Pump studios by Nino Laurenne (AMORPHIS, WINTERSUN, WARMEN) and mastered at Chartmakers by Svante Forsberg (STRATOVARIUS, APOCALYPTICA). The CD will be released in Japan on Avalon/Marquee on January 21, 2006, in France on February 20 and in the rest of the world on February 27 through Plastic Head distribution.
The following message was posted at the band's official site: "After months in the studio, the work on the new Theatre of Tragedy album is coming to an end. Producer Rico Darum has met up with mixmaster Greg Reely(Paradise Lost, Fear Factory, Front Line Assembly, Skinny Puppy etc) at The Green Jacket, Richmond, BC, Canada. What remains is the final twisting and turning of knobs. 12 songs have been picked out of the 15 that were recorded.
10 will make it to the the final version of the album. The remaining songs will either be bonustracks or included on future releases.
The title for the 6th Theatre of Tragedy album will be "Storm". Some of the songtitles that will be included on the album are "Storm", "Begin and End", "Disintegration", Fade" and "Dust". More titles will be revealed later on."
Acclaimed Swedish prog-metal band ANDROMEDA will release their third album, "Chimera", in Japan on January 21, 2006 via Marquee/Avalon. A release date for North America, Europe and the rest of the world will soon be announced.
ANDROMEDA's debut album, "Extension of the Wish" (2001), was re-released in Europe via New Hawen/Century Media. The new version features vocals by new singer David Fremberg, a new mix and two bonus tracks,
Chimera" track listing:
01. Periscope 02. In the End 03. The Hidden Riddle 04. Going Under 05. The Cage of Me 06. No Guidelines 07. Iskenderun 08. Inner Circle 09. Blink of an Eye
Finnish metallers NORTHER have lined up the following dates in February/March:
Feb. 25 - Kuopio, FIN - Henry´s Pub Mar. 10 - Helsinki, FIN – Tavastia
As previously reported, NORTHER have set "Till Death Unites Us" as the title of their new album, due on January 25, 2006 via Spinefarm. A single, entitled "Scream", will precede the album before the end of the year.
"Till Death Unites Us" track listing (in no particular order):
01. Scream 02. Throwing My Life Away 03. The End of Our Lives 04. Evil Ladies 05. Drowning 06. Die 07. Everything 08. Alone In the End 09. Norther 10. Omen 11. Fuck You 12. Wasted Years
NORTHER's last release was an EP, entitled "Solution 7". The band's third full-length album, "Death Unlimited", was issued last year through Spinefarm Records.
Drakkar has set a March 3, 2006 release date for the new album from Finland's LORDI, entitled "The Arockalypse". The CD will feature guest appearances by former ACCEPT frontman Udo Dirkschneider (on "They Only Come Out at the Night") and ex-KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick (on "Snowing in Hell").
"Udo has my absolute favourite heavy metal voice," said LORDI leader Mr. Lordi. "I saw U.D.O. on the 'Animal House' tour in 1998. I was there in the first row, and since that I've been to every single U.D.O. and ACCEPT gig in Finland. His voice has influenced me a lot. I'm sure that some fans may have noticed how I sometimes desperately try to imitate his singing style," Mr. Lordi laughed.
Regarding Bruce Kulick's appearance on the CD, LORDI guitarist Amen said, "We are all huge KISS fans, so to co-operate with a legend like Mr. Kulick is the greatest honor we could get! I remember when I was a kid and I saw KISS's video 'Who Wants to Be Lonely' where Bruce Kulick is playing a solo in a shower. Well, of course I wanted to be like him! Me and my friends went to my parents' garden, and while the others spurted water all over me I was playing a guitar — it was a lot of fun! This is something I never could have imagined, even in my wildest dreams. To play guitar on the same track with Bruce Kulick is just unbelievable."
"Without KISS, we wouldn't have our little band", added Mr. Lordi. "I grew up in the '80s, and I grew up with KISS with Bruce in the group. So, for me personally in some way, Bruce Kulick is the 'real' lead guitarist of KISS! Also, KISS's musical influence on LORDI comes primarily from the Eighties lineup."
Sweden's KATATONIA have set "The Great Cold Distance" as the title of their seventh full-length album, due on March 13, 2006 via Peaceville Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Viva Emptiness" was recorded at Fascination Street studios in the outskirts of Örebro, Sweden and was mastered at the Cutting Room in Stockholm.
"The Great Cold Distance" track listing:
01. Leaders 02. Deliberation 03. Soil's Song 04. My Twin 05. Consternation 06. Follower 07. Rusted 08. Increase 09. July 10. In The White 11. The Itch 12. Journey Through Pressure
A single, "My Twin", will precede the album on February 13. The single, which will be available for paid download on February 6, will feature the following track listing:
01. My Twin (Single Edit) 02. My Twin (Opium Dub) 03. Displaced 04. Dissolving Bonds
Download an audio sample of "My Twin" and view the album/single artwork (plus new band photo) at ' .
Among prog-metal lovers, the Sarasota-Bradenton band CRIMSON GLORY is semi-legendary, a rival to QUEENSRŸCHE and TOOL — especially in Europe, where its out-of-print albums are highly sought collectors' items.
It's been six years since the band released its last album, and 16 years since it performed with its classic lineup.
That will change in 2006, when CRIMSON GLORY celebrates the 20th anniversary of its first album with reissues of its back catalog, new releases of rare audio and video, and live performances, says founder/guitarist Jon Drenning.
"There's a tremendous amount of loyal fans around the world who love this band, and they're making it possible for this to happen, because they keep demanding moюre material from CRIMSON GLORY," Drenning said.
Drenning has reassembled original members Midnight (lead vocals), Ben Jackson (guitar) and Jeff Lords (bass). The drummer has yet to be announced.
The reunion will include:
Remastered reissues of the band's self-titled first CD, originally released in 1986, "Transcendence" (1988) and "Astronomica" (1999), all on Black Lotus Records. All will contain previously unreleased tracks; "Astronomica" may include Midnight's vocals for the first time and a new video shot at the pyramids in Egypt.
A DVD featuring never-before-released live footage, including a 1989 concert at the Manatee Civic Center.
An anthology box set, "Valley of Shadows, Kingdoms of Light".
Live performances at various European festivals.
The band also plans on recording an all-new album for 2007, backed by a tour.
All this begs one question: Will CRIMSON GLORY once again don the face masks synonymous with its name?
"Being that it's part of our history, I think we will to some degree," Drenning said. "Maybe for (concert) encores, we'll put the masks back on."
According to the official DIO fan club newsletter, DIO will be working on a new album in January/February and going back on the road sometime in March for an extended South American tour. The band will resume work on the new CD in April/May, with plans to complete the album by the end of the year. The band's management has also confirmed that DIO will be making several European festival appearances during June, July and August. No U.S. tour plans for 2006 have yet been announced.
The current DIO touring lineup includes guitarist Doug Aldrich (WHITESNAKE), who has been filling in for an injured Craig Goldy since early October. Craig was previously said to have hurt his arm while touring Russia and was trying to continue to play the shows on painkillers, but was eventually forced to leave the trek.
Aldrich's sole studio recording with DIO came in the shape of 2002's "Killing the Dragon", after which he toured with the group before leaving to join the touring lineup of WHITESNAKE.
CADAVERIA, the Italian band featuring former OPERA IX vocalist Cadaveria and ex-OPERA IX drummer/NECRODEATH vocalist Marçelo Santos (a.k.a. Flegias), have finished writing ten new songs their third album, tentatively due next year via Scarlet Records. The recordings for the new CD will begin in early 2006.
CADAVERIA's sophomore album, "Far Away From Conformity", was released in early 2004. The follow-up to 2002's "The Shadows' Madame" was recorded and mixed at Capitan Woofer Studio in Italy and was mastered at the Mastering Room in Sweden.
The cover artwork for the upcoming IN FLAMES album, "Come Clarity", has been posted online at ' .
As previously reported, "Come Clarity" will include a free bonus DVD featuring the band performing the album in full in a rehearsal room, akin to what METALLICA did with initial versions of their "St. Anger" album. In addition, one of the album's songs — "Dead End" — features the vocals of Swedish singer/songwriter Lisa Miskovsky.
"Come Clarity", is scheduled for a February 7, 2006 North American release through Ferret Records. The CD will be issued in Europe on February 6, 2006 via Nuclear Blast Records.
The follow-up to 2004's "Soundtrack to Your Escape", "Come Clarity" was mixed at Tonteknik studio in Umeå, Sweden and is "the best one we've ever done," according to IN FLAMES guitarist Jesper Strömblad. A video for the album's opening track, "Take This Life", was shot late last month with director Patric Ullaeus (DIMMU BORGIR, LACUNA COIL).
"Come Clarity" track listing:
01. Take This Life 02. Leeches 03. Reflect The Storm 04. Dead End 05. Scream 06. Come Clarity 07. Vacuum 08. Pacing Death's Trail 09. Crawling Through Knives 10. Versus Terminus 11. Our Infinite Struggle 12. Vanishing Light 13. Your Bedtime Story Is Scaring Everyone
Eight dates have been announced for IN FLAMES' upcoming North American headlining tour in support of their highly anticipated new album, "Come Clarity". Support at the shows will come from Orlando's TRIVIUM, California's DEVILDRIVER and Greensburg, Pennsylvania's ZAO. The dates are as follows:
Jan. 25 - Tempe, AZ - Marquee Theatre Jan. 26 - Las Vegas, NV - House of Blues Jan. 27 - San Diego, CA - Soma Jan. 28 - Los Angeles, CA - Avalon Jan. 30 - Portland, OR - Roseland Theatre Feb. 01 - Seattle, WA - Showbox Feb. 03 - Salt Lake City, UT - Salt Air Pavilion Feb. 04 - Denver, CO - Gothic Theatre
More dates will be announced soon
The extended trek will represent IN FLAMES' first North American dates since their main-stage appearances as part of Ozzfest 2005 and will kick off the band's most extensive touring on the continent in their decade-plus history. IN FLAMES are currently in the midst of a three-week U.K. tour alongside MOTÖRHEAD.
AFTER THE STORM: charity inheres in the rich. Is this postulate unquestionable? I don’t think so. Some of the best-known progressive rock musicians made their contributions on a benefit album for the Survivors of Hurricane Katrina produced by NEARfest Records. The album will soon be available for sale but in the meantime have a look at its tracklist: Disc One: 13. ECHOLYN: 15 days 14. HAPPY THE MAN: Ibby it is 15. FM: Random Harvest 16. CAMEL: After all these years 17. Mike Keneally: Time table 18. SPOCK’S BEARD: Shining star 19. IQ: Chemical Rain 20. KRAAN: Silver buildings 21. MOSTLY AUTUMN: Ghost in dreamland 22. IZZ: My river flows 23. NEKTAR: Phazed by the storm 24. Sean Molone: Grace
Disc Two: 13. KANSAS: Song for America 14. THE FLOWER KINGS: A king’s prayer 15. WOODENHEAD: Buzz beat 16. DJAM KARET: The shattering sky 17. Neal Morse: Sleeping Jesus 18. THE MUFFINS: Essay R 19. CARAVAN: Love song with flute 20. Änglagård: Gånglåt från Knapptibble 21. LITTLE ATLAS: On and on 22. A.A. Lucassen: Pools of sorrow/not over you 23. CALIFORNIA GUITAR TRIO: Zundoko bushi 24. PENDRAGON: Sou’ by sou’west
Some news from on the work on Operation Mindcrime II: Geoff is recoding vocals now, with the other singers joining in soon. The band is confirming the singer who plays Dr. X by the end of next week. I think you'll be surprised, he is VERY well known and respected. Rumour has it that Rob Halford, frontman for Judas Priest, has been chosen to play the role. Look's like we will just have to wait and see!
Power/Progressive Metal band Vindex signs on for the release of their full length debut Power Forge. Hailing from Slovakia, Vindex delivers their brand of pure power metal laced with progressive elements driven by twin neo classical guitars. What makes Vindex unique is the voice of vocalist Ludek Struhar who could be a dead ringer for Accept vocalist Udo Dirkschneider. Power Forge contains 11 tracks of brain crushing metal sure to please fans of Grave Digger, Accept, UDO, Edguy, and Stratovarious. Release Date January 2006.
Veteran Swiss hard rockers KROKUS have parted ways with drummer Patrick Aeby. Patrick's departure "was amicable and the whole KROKUS family sincerely wishes him the best of luck for the future," reads posting on the group's web site. A replacement drummer has yet to be announced. KROKUS recently spent time in the studio working on the follow-up to 2003's "Rock the Block", tentatively due in early 2006. The group's current lineup includes frontman Marc Storace, Mandy Meyer (guitar), Dominique Fave (guitar) and Tony Castell (bass).
Belgian black metal pioneers ANCIENT RITES have inked a deal with Season of Mist. The band are currently at Spacelab studio in Germany recording their long-awaited follow-up to 2001's "Dim Carcosa" under the guidance and supervision of veteran producers Oliver Phillips and Christian Moos. The album will most likely be released before the summer of 2006, after which ANCIENT RITES — now a septet since the return of former members Domingo Smets and Raf Jansen last year — will once again play live to spread their new music. Concerts all over Europe and the U.K. are currently being negotiated and arranged, so expect the band to be out there in full blast next year.
Two more acts are confirmed for next year's installment of the Bang Your Head!!! festival, set to take place June 23-24, 2006 in Balingen, Germany.
Besides legendary Bay Area-band EXODUS, who have just released the highly acclaimed 'Shovel Headed Kill Machine', the event's organisators added Rock veterans FOREIGNER to the festival-lineup as well. The band of guitarist Mick Jones, who was joined recently by vocalist Kelly Hansen and rhythm section Jason Bonham (son of late LED ZEPPELIN-drummer John Bonham) and Jeff Pilson, will perform an exclusive headlining-show. It will be the only appearance of FOREIGNER at an European open air-event that year.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows so far (10 more acts to be confirmed):
EUROPE FOREIGNER Y&T RIK EMMETT (playing an evening of TRIUMPH-music) JON OLIVA'S PAIN EXODUS FLOTSAM AND JETSAM LEATHERWOLF COUNT RAVEN VICTORY L.A. GUNS POWERWOLF
Strings Attached will be realized live on stage with the ICSQ, the critically acclaimed string quartet featured on the album. Attila, MAYHEM legendary frontman will join us for a mini MAYHEM set. The show will take place on December 27th at the Theater club in Jaffa (Israel). Doors open at 21:30.
Southern German Metal outfit RAWHEAD REXX are in the studio and started the preproduction of the follow-up to their last release „Diary in black“. Songwriting efforts turned out to be very futile: Right now, the band has composed about 30 songs to choose from.
According to singer Jürgen Volk, the material will stand in the tradition of the band’s first release published back in 2002, that impressed both press and fans with its rough, energetic and US-Metal orientated sound (and a quite gory cover artwork that was actually banned in their homecountry). As drummer Dany Löble has left the band last year to join HELLOWEEN, Volk and his companion Face will recruit a session musician for the upcoming recordings. The yet untitled album will tentatively be released in summer 2006.
Sweden's DARK TRANQUILLITY have uploaded a live video clip of "The Wonders at Your Feet" and half of "Zodijackyl Light", shot at the group's concert in Gran Canaria on October 1. "The sound and picture quality isn't the best, so it's for die-hards only, but the atmosphere is present in spades," the band write on their web site. Check it out at this location (Windows Media, 18 MB).
DARK TRANQUILLITY will be embarking on a European headlining tour beginning in late November in support of their latest effort, "Character" (released in January 2005). After supporting KREATOR on their European tour in spring 2005, a trip to the U.S. and numerous festival appearances, the sextet will be headlining this time, with support from thrash/metalcore hybrid CHIMAIRA, HATESPHERE and BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE.
World renowned Dutch act THE GATHERING entered the studio today (November 21, 2005) to commence work on their ninth studio album.
For this recording the band has built a professional homemade studio inside an old church in the small town of Maurik, located in the south of Holland. With the help of producer Attie Bauw (producer of the band's 1998 effort, "How to Measure a Planet?") the band plans to work there for a month before heading to Bauw's studio to mix and master the music.
Comments singer Anneke van Giersbergen about the constructed studio and working with Bauw again: "We built our own studio there because we wanted to do something different and create a new atmosphere. As for working with Attie Bauw, he is a very inspirational man with great ideas and we were very anxious to work with him again.
"I like being in the studio especially because we are then together for a vast period of time as a group and we create something entirely new. It's always amazing to participate in this process and to finish with a brand new album. That sense of accomplishment is truly wonderful."
She adds, "We would hope to see the album get released sometime in March (on Psychonaut Records in Europe, The End Records in North America). We plan to start touring in March and come over to tour in South America and the U.S.A. once again."
In February van Giersbergen gave birth to her first child, a boy named Finn. The singer welcomes the changes being a mother brings to her and her songwriting.
"Being a mother has changed a lot for me and obviously everything I do or go through will somehow end up in a lyric or a song, but I haven't written any mother-baby songs — yet!" she laughs. "My views on life are the same as before I had my baby boy, they are now just so much stronger. So if anything, my contribution to the band's music and the music we create together will be more powerful because of these new experiences."
In other recent news THE GATHERING just released their double-DVD, "A Sound Relief", in the U.S./Canada via The End Records. The two-disc set features a live concert the band recorded on May 23, 2005 at the famous Paradiso in Amsterdam, plus bonus extras like the band's own tour impressions caught on video, video interviews and a bonus disc showcasing a collection of beautiful 3-D animation clips.
Norwegian black metallers KEEP OF KALESSIN, featuring Obsidian C. (a.k.a. Arnt Grønbech, also a touring guitarist for SATYRICON) on guitars/bass/synth, have been confirmed as the support act for EXODUS and HYPOCRISY on their upcoming European tour. The dates are as follows:
Nov. 22 - Lutaako – Jyvaskyla, FIN Nov. 23 - Club Teatria - Oulu, FIN Nov. 24 - Nostory - Helsinki, FIN Nov. 25 - Nooruse Maja – Tartu, EST Nov. 26 - Salamandra – Riga, LAT Nov. 27 - Proxima – Warszawa, POL Nov. 28 - WZ – Wroclaw, SK Nov. 29 - A 38 – Budapest, HUN Nov. 30 - Media Park – Ljubljana, SLO Dec. 01 - Stadthalle – Cham, GER Dec. 03 - Troubadour – Lyon, FRA
As previously reported, KEEP OF KALESSIN have set a March 27, 2006 release date for their new album, entitled "Armada". The CD will be released via the Norwegian label Tabu Recordings, a division of Tuba Records. Vyl is playing drums on the album and a new bass player, Wizziac, is being introduced. MAYHEM singer Attila Chisar is doing some additional vocals, but he will not be the frontman anymore. The band will try out different vocalists in the studio to find the one who matches the music best. The group's complete lineup will be revealed when the recording sessions are completed.
KEEP OF KALESSIN's most recent mini-album, "Reclaim", was released in December 2003 through FaceFront Records. The group's first release since 1999's "Agnen: A Journey through the Dark" (Avantgarde), "Reclaim" has been described as a new milestone in Norwegian black metal by the Norwegian press. "Reclaim" is available in the U.S. through The End mail-order.
OPETH mainman Mikael Åkerfeldt has posted the following message on the group's official web site:
"As ' on Blabbermouth, our busdriver on the last North American tour was arrested in Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL for 'unlawful activity with a minor.' Basically, we're appalled by the fact that we'd employed this bastard and even more disgusted by his deeds and obviously we will be much more detailed in our background check for future employments. The driver introduced himself only as 'Rod' and seemed like a nice guy, even though for us he was just another driver, and a bad one as well! He said he owned a trailer company and that he was a drummer, playing with TED NUGENT and several other bands in the '70s. We got suspicious that he couldn't get into Canada (we had another driver there) due to some previous drug 'misdemeanors.' Myself and Peter [Lindgren; guitars] met him and the girl in the elevator of the hotel where he introduced her as his niece. She seemed distant, asking us if we smoked pot. 'Rod' told us he was driving her to Los Angeles. After the gig, he never returned to the bus and then we got the news that he'd been arrested. Luckily for us one of NEVERMORE's crew was able to drive us back to the hotel. The next day the FBI stopped our tour manager outside the bus with a warrant to search the bus for 'Rod's' laptop and camera. We feel genuinely happy that he is caught and behind bars where we hope he will stay for a long time."
Ann Frestad of Khaoz Productionz, which represents the Norwegian black metal bands GORGOROTH and 1349, has issued the following statement regarding the two groups' gig cancellations in Ljubljana, Slovenia and Zilina, Slovakia:
"Ljubljana, Slovenia: We got major bus problems, and did not make the show in time. We wanted to play, but due to the club curfew it was simply impossible to reach it.
"Zilina, Slovakia: We arrived the club, but due to technical equipment from the venue we were forced to cancel as it would have been impossible for the bands to do a decent show.
"We are very sorry on behalf of the fans that had travelled a long way to see the shows, and hope we can make it up to you in the future."
As previously reported, GORGOROTH wil record several shows on their current European tour with 1349 for an upcoming live album, entitled "True Norwegian Black Metal". Scheduled for a late autumn release in 2007, it will mark and celebrate GORGOROTH's 15-year anniversary.
GORGOROTH's new album, "Ad Majorem Sathanas Gloriam", is tentatively scheduled for release early next year via Sweden's Regain Records. The band were most recently signed to Nuclear Blast Records, who released the band's last three efforts: "Twilight of the Idols" (2003), "Incipit Satan" (2000) and "Destroyer" (1998).
GORGOROTH last year inked a deal with the French label Season of Mist for the reissues of their first three albums: "Pentagram" (1994), "Antichrist" (1996) and "Under the Sign of Hell" (1997). All three were re-released earlier this year in a remastered, digipack version.
Finnish folk metallers KORPIKLAANI entered the studio on November 14 to begin recording their third full-length album, "Tales along This Road". The CD will be released in March 2006 on Napalm Records.
The recording sessions for the new album will be interrupted for a couple of weeks by the second leg of the band's European tour. The tour highlights will include a show at the Czech's Winter Masters Of Rock with HAMMERFALL and STRATOVARIUS on Decemebr 3 and a charity concert for sexually abused children in Celle, Germany on November 26. The European tour to support the release of KORPIKLAANI's upcoming album will begin March 30 and last approximately three weeks. European festival appearances during the 2006 summer season are also in the works: 10 confirmed festival gigs, as well as ongoing negotiations for further dates.
KORPIKLAANI's second album under their current moniker (the group released two albums as SHAMAN), "Voice of Wilderness", was released last January via Napalm Records.
Swedish black metal titans NAGLFAR will be supporting DARK FUNERAL on a European tour beginning in February 2006. Confirmed dates so far are as follows:
Feb. 24 - Stockholm, SWE @ Klubben Feb. 25 - Malmö, SWE @ KB Feb. 26 - Göteborg, SWE @ Kåren
NAGLFAR's latest album, "Pariah", is available now on Century Media Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Sheol", "Pariah" is described in a Century Media press release as "a flawless work of iniquitous hell-spawned art filled with raging guitar riffs, bludgeoning drums, demonic vocals, that combine with haunting melodies to capture hell's eternal depravity."
Finnish folk-influenced melodic death metal band ENSIFERUM, now featuring in its ranks NORTHER frontman Petri Lindroos, have set "Dragonheads" as the title of their new EP, due in February 2006 via Spinefarm Records. The mini-CD is being recorded at Sonic Pump studios in Helsinki and will contain one new track, new studio recordings of several old demo songs, and a couple of traditional Finnish folk covers. The group's next full-length release is scheduled to be recorded in the summer of 2006. A European tour is tentatively slated to kick off in March 2006.
As previously reported, ENSIFERUM will film their New Year's Eve (Dec. 31) 10-year anniversary concert at the Nosturi in Helsinki, Finland for an upcoming DVD.
ENSIFERUM's sophomore album, "Iron", was released in April 2004 through Spinefarm Records. The follow-up to 2001's "Ensiferum" was recorded in the summer of 2003 at Sweet Silence studios in Copenhagen, Denmark with producer Flemming Rasmussen (METALLICA, ARTILLERY, MORBID ANGEL).
British black metallers CRADLE OF FILTH recorded a cover of SAMHAIN's "Halloween II", which will appear on the soundtrack to the forthcoming film "Underworld: Evolution". The band are currently recording their seventh LP at Lincolnshire, England's Chapel Studios for an early June 2006 release via Roadrunner Records. The group's frontman Dani Filth told ' that when the group's new disc arrives in stores, fans will hear two very interesting covers the FILTH's been perfecting: U.K. techno-pop trio HEAVEN 17's "Temptation" and "Stay" by SHAKESPEAR'S SISTER.
"We picked those because they are interesting," Filth said. "It's going to be a challenge, and that's the whole point. If you're going to do something, don't just do it for the sake of doing it. It has to be something you can make your own."
The band's reunited with Rob Caggiano (BLEEDING THROUGH, ANTHRAX), who produced 2004's "Nymphetamine" and 2003's "Damnation and a Day", and at this point in the process, Filth said "all the drum and bass tracks are pretty much done, and I've already started recording vocals." The FILTH will work on the album until the end of the month before breaking for a two-week U.K. tour; they'll reconvene on the sessions in mid-January.
The album, he said, will end up containing about 10 tracks, including "Libertina Grim", "Lovesick for Mina", "The Byronic Man" and "Cemetery and Sundown".
"This record heightens our rhythm, and there are lots of cool off-beats. It's just as meandering as much of our stuff, but there are also some really catchy tracks there," Filth told MTV.com. "I've introduced more sing-y type parts. It's a bigger, better-sounding CRADLE OF FILTH, and more direct and to the point."
Tech metal band GRENOUER in late September 2005 had a rough time when fire destroyed their rehearsal studio with all instruments and equipment yet was quite fast to recover from this misfortune. Musicians have already purchased new high quality instruments and resolved the problem of finding a new room. For that Grenouer had to use studio budget and studio session at ASTIA (Finland) was rescheduled for the summer 2006. Anyway Grenouer is resuming rehearsals and prepares to play several gigs by the end of the year. Meanwhile December HARD ROCK magazine (Fra) is giving Grenouer "Try" nomination "Demo of the month".
Moscow-based band THE NEVELAND have started recording of their debut album. While title is to be announced it is said that recording will take place in different studios.
Happy birthday, KAIPA! On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of those progsters around Hans Lundin "flower king" Roine Stolt a neatly designed 5-CD box "The Decca Years 1975 - 1978" is released. This box presents a complete overview over the material of Kaipa's early years. This means that first of all you will find the first three albums by the band, all remastered and featuring bonus material: "Kaipa" (1975), "Inget nytt uner solen" (1976), "Solo" (1978). Two CDs full of previously - in this form - unreleased material are inviting fans to a journey into the sound cosmos of the Swedish group: "Kaipa live" features eleven titles recorded live at the time in Denmark and Sweden; and finally "1974 Unedited Master Demo Recording" collects eleven demo tracks, partly of previously unkown songs. This 5-CD box is released worldwide in a limited edition of 3000 copies.
STREAM OF PASSION, Ayreon mastermind Arjen Anthony Lucassen's band around the Mexican singer Marcela Bovio will be on tour at the beginning of next year. They will perform material of their debut album "Embrace The Storm" which came out in October as well as selected Ayreon songs. And special guest is: Damian Wilson (formerly with Threshold). www.streamofpassion.com
Fates Warning, in the business since 20 years, got a thunderlike reputation. They are one of the pioneers of progressive metal, they have decisively influenced groups such as Dream Theater and Queensryche, and meanwhile they have sold more than one million albums worldwide among fans of the genre. With "Live in Athens" the Americans are now presenting a 90 minute concert recording from their European tour in February 2005 plus all kinds of bonus material. Companions on their tour were: Spock's Beard drummer Nick D'Virgilio and keyboardist Kevin Moore (formerly with Dream Theater). Bonus material: Among other stuff "Another Perfect Day" and "The Eleventh Hour", recorded at the Headway festival in the Netherlands with special guest Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater) on drums.
All good things come to those who wait: VANDEN PLAS are currently recording their new album "Christ 0" ("Christ Zero". The concept is based on Alexandre Dumas' classic novel "The Count of Monte Christo", the release is planned for the end of February. And on February 25th the musical "Abydos" which was written by Andy Kuntz premieres at the Kaiserslauterer Pfalztheatre. Starring Kuntz it will be performed for thirteen times. At each peformance there are integrated a few Vanden Plas songs played by the band.
Russian grind label SoulFlesh Collector announced the first release. It is split of three bands: CADAVERIC INCUBATOR (Finland), FETAL DECAY (Russia, Saratov), MORTALIZED (Russia, Kazan'). The most famous of them is the band from Saratov, they showed high level, excelent material was played and mixed as well as it possible. Finns demonstrated qualitative old-school brutal death with special perverted vocal. Young guys from Kazan' made music which have never been in Russia. Riffs in style of MORTICIAN but rocking drums - you should listen it Total time - 50:10
Finnish folk-influenced melodic death metal band ENSIFERUM, now featuring in its ranks NORTHER frontman Petri Lindroos, will film their New Year's Eve 10-year anniversary concert at the Nosturi in Helsinki, Finland for an upcoming DVD.
ENSIFERUM, who recently parted ways with drummer Oliver Fokin and replaced him with Janne Parviainen, will enter Sonic Pump studios in Helsinki later in the month to record a mini-CD containing one new track, new studio recordings of several old demo songs, and a couple of traditional Finnish folk covers. The as-yet-untitled effort will be released in early 2006. The group's next full-length release is scheduled to be recorded in the summer of 2006. A European tour is tentatively slated to kick off in March 2006.
ENSIFERUM's sophomore album, "Iron", was released in April 2004 through Spinefarm Records. The follow-up to 2001's "Ensiferum" was recorded in the summer of 2003 at Sweet Silence studios in Copenhagen, Denmark with producer Flemming Rasmussen (METALLICA, ARTILLERY, MORBID ANGEL).
Have you written any new material? When will a new record be released?
We are composing new songs this period. We are planning to start recording our 3rd album in January, but I cannot say when the CD will be released ’cause we have no label agreement at the moment.
In the second album there is an evolution in the sound of Cadaveria and your voice. Will we see another evolution in the future?
For sure. People change and the music they play changes with them. There will be more middle temples and very strange guitar riffs. The voice will be always both growl and clear, with a prevalence of melodic parts. The songs’ structure seems to be a bit less complex than in the past.
Do you consider using Black Metal vocals again in Cadaveria in a next release?
Yes, less screaming and more Death Metal.
You are a member of Cadaveria and DyNAbyte too. Do you have any other projects? Would you like to create a Black Metal band?
Two bands are enough. There are many other projects in my mind but they don’t concern music. I started painting this summer and I like it very much!
Do you think that Scarlet Records is the most suitable label for you?
The contract with Scarlet finished with "Far Away From Conformity (2003). We will surely involve Scarlet in listening to the new material, but it is not sure that we will sign with them. We will propose the master to a series of label and see what happens.
In "Far Away From Conformity" you covered Blondie’s "Call Me". Do you consider attempting something like this again?
You mean to do a cover? Why not. Actually we are thinking about it but we have not chosen the song yet.
What are the musical influences of the band?
Many, ’cause each member of the band listens to a different Metal genre. Actually I listen to Tool and Rammstein, John is more into Fear Factory and Motorhead and so on...
What do you imagine yourself doing, except from music?
Exactly what I’m doing now besides music.
Do you read? Which is your favorite literature style and maybe your favorite book?
Yes, I’m used to reading. I just finished Dan Brown’s "The Da Vinci Code and "Angels and Demons" and now I’m reading "Io Uccido" by Italian writer Faletti. I like all well written books that talk about strange stories.
What inspires you when writing lyrics?
My life, people I meet, emotions I feel, thoughts passing through my mind....
The Italian Metal scene is very strong at the moment. What do you think of that? Do you know/like any of these bands?
I’m very happy things are going well for Italian Metal, but honestly I’ve been a bit out of the scene lately.
Cadaveria could be characterized more as an underground band rather than a mainstream one. Does this bother you?
No, it is the truth. I play music ’cause I like doing this, not to be defined as a popular band.
What is going on with your project DyNAbyte. When will the new album be released? Are you making any new performances?
Actually I’ve totally dedicating myself to Cadaveria’s new songs. DyNAbyte’s new album will come after Cadaveria’s new one, even if a mini tour in Holland is going to take place with DNA in April 06.
Which are the 5 best albums ever written in your opinion?
"Killers" (Iron Maiden), "The Sound of Perseverance" (Death), "Aenima" (Tool), "Paranoid" (Black Sabbath), "Post Orgasmic Chill" (Skunk Anansie).
Do you think that a female vocalist can give credit to a band or is this a disadvantage?
It depends on the female vocalist.
Some last words for your fans. Thanks for the interview!!
Let me thank all fans following and supporting me since 1993. A great hail to you all, stay metal and be yourselves! Don’t miss our next album... by that time enjoy www.cadaveria.com.
Back in June I heard about your upcoming album "Come Clarity". When is the expected release date?
I think in Europe it’s February 6th and in the States I’m not sure about it, maybe a couple of weeks after. The reason it’s delayed is because we’re in between signing contracts with labels. We’re actually looking for a label right now to release it in the States so, early next year.
How does this album compare to your previous albums?
It’s no doubt the best one we’ve ever done, of course. It’s kind of a mixture between the new stuff and the old stuff. Like the previous 2 albums were a little bit experimental for us, we changed producers and we changed studios. So we took all the good stuff from the old stuff and the new and we did this album and it’s brilliant. It’s awesome.
Is there a particular story to it?
I haven’t really read the lyrics, so I don’t know. I don’t think there is. Musically it’s more up tempo, more melodic to show that we have so much more to give and we’re really hungry. The best album is yet to come.
When you first announced the new album, the title was "Crawl Through Knives". Why did you change it?
That was more or less a working title and at the time. It was one of the first songs that we wrote. We thought it was a cool title and we had a concept for the cover and everything. But then we wrote "Come Clarity" and we thought that would be a better title. We still have the song "Crawl Through Knives" though.
Back in February In Flames won the Swedish Grammy Awards. What was that like?
That was great. It was like "at last we got it". Because we were nominated for a couple of years but then other bands took it from us. We think we deserved it because we’ve been around for so long and we’ve released so many albums and had kind of an impact on the Swedish scene, so we think we deserved it.
You’re also a big influence on a lot of the American Metal bands today. How do you feel about that fact?
In Flames amongst a lot of other bands from Sweden. It’s kind of funny to hear a lot of today’s new Metal sound. I can hear stuff that we did like 10 years ago and now it’s such a big thing. It’s cool that there are so many bands that are influenced by the little bands from Sweden; it’s flattering. That means that we’re doing something good, I guess. It’s great knowing that we’re an inspiration for other bands and younger bands.
Does it work both ways? Are there any American bands that influence your sound?
It goes around. One of my absolute favorite bands is Killswitch Engage. I guess I wouldn’t say that they are an influence for me, but I can listen to their music and get inspired to write my own songs. I love that band.
What are your thoughts about being on Ozzfest?
It’s great to be here. It’s a really long tour. Everyone is ready to go home but its great exposure for us. It would be nicer to play on the second stage because on this stage we’re opening up and we’re playing in front of empty seats. But still there are a lot of people here to see us. It’s good publicity and it’s good promotion for us. We just can’t wait to come back and play the headlining tour to play a long set, to play the new stuff.
Awesome. I’ve been waiting a few years to see you guys but to see you actually play a headlining show will be cool.
Yeah, we can’t wait for it either. We’re gonna be back soon.
After Ozzfest, you’ll be going on tour with Motorhead. How is it to support such a notorious Metal band?
It’s a great chance for us to come to the U.K. and play a little bit bigger venues because the U.K. is kind of new for us. Usually when we do the European tours, we only stop in London. We only did seven dates with Slipknot 4 years ago, that’s it. So it’s a great chance for us. It’s a pretty long tour, three and a half weeks, we go to Ireland and Scotland so it’s gonna be great.
What are some bands that you listen to these days?
Sevendust, Children of Bodom, the new Mudvayne. I listen to a lot of Swedish folk music and jazz stuff. I get pretty tired of Metal right now, so when I put on a CD it’s usually like singer/songwriter stuff, the lonely girl with the guitar, that’s what I like. [Laughs]
That’s actually funny to think. Hearing your music then thinking that at the end of the day you’re listen to something on the complete other end of the spectrum.
Yeah, it is. [Laughs]
Any last words?
Well, no, just that we’re gonna be back soon and I hope to see everyone there, wherever "there" is. [Laughs]
[Then he points to my Macabre sticker on my book, that matches the one on his neck, and gives the horns.] - Yeah, they’re one of my favorite’s too. Dennis (The Menace - drummer) is a friend of mine.
Oh yeah? I love those guys. They are brilliant. You tell Dennis that Jesper says "hi".
San Diego film company ZU33 is currently developing "Lords of Chaos", a fiction film based on true events in the Norwegian black metal music scene in the early 1990s. The project goes into pre-production in November, with physical production scheduled to begin in Februrary 2006. The screenplay was written by Hans Fjellestad, Ryan Page and Adam Parfrey. Fjellestad is set to direct.
The movie is based on the book "Lords of Chaos: The Bloody Rise of the Satanic Metal Underground" (view cover/details at ' ), which documents some of the events that have occurred in black metal's history, including the murder of MAYHEM's Aasarth Oystein (better known as Euronymous) at the hands of BURZUM mastermind Varg Vikernes (a.k.a. Count Grishnackh).
ZU33 described the movie as follows: "Equal parts music, true crime, occult, and subcultural anthropology, the book by Michael Moynihan and Didrik Søderlind chronicles the Norwegian black metal music scene in the early 1990s. Since that time, nearly 100 churches have been torched and desecrated by adherents of black metal, the most extreme form of underground music on the planet. In an escalating unholy war, black metal bands and their obsessive fans have left a grim legacy of suicide, murder and terrorism spreading from Norway to Germany, Russia, America and beyond. The feature film will focus on the relationship between legendary figures Varg Vikernes and Euronymous and the rest of the 'Black Circle' as they wage war against the powers that be in their native country."
"Lords of Chaos: The Bloody Rise of the Satanic Metal Underground" was originally published in 1998 by Feral House U.S. A second edition followed in 2003 which documents black metal activities since 1997.
Hans Fjellestad will make his feature film directorial debut with "Lords of Chaos" after two highly successful and critically acclaimed documentary films, "Moog" (2004, Plexifilm) and "Frontier Life" (2002, Third World Newsreel).
Reactivated Finnish melodic extreme metal band ETERNAL TEARS OF SORROW are continuing work on their as-yet-untitled fifth album for a tentative March/April 2006 release via Spinefarm Records. According to the band, "The material for the fifth album is heavier, much more diverse and more guitar-orientated compared to the fourth album 'A Virgin and a Whore' [2001]."
ETERNAL TEARS OF SORROW's current lineup is as follows:
Altti Veteläinen - Bass, Vocals Jarmo Puolakanaho - Guitar Risto Ruuth - Lead Guitar Janne Tolsa - Keyboards Petri Sankala - Drums
U.K.-based black/death quintet BAL-SAGOTH have issued the following update on the recording proces for their long-awaited sixth album:
"The musical instruments for the sixth BAL-SAGOTH album have finally been recorded after a long delay. The vocal session can now begin imminently, which will be followed by the final mix. Fans who are impatiently awaiting the much anticipated sixth album can understand that the band always seeks to ensure their work is of the absolute highest standard, and to achieve that standard sometimes takes a considerable amount of time. But finally, the album is almost complete and the wait is almost over!
"Just some of the highlights fans can look forward to on the sixth album are:
1) The thrilling second chapter of the epic 'Obsidian Crown' saga, which began way back on the second BAL-SAGOTH album 'Starfire Burning Upon The Ice-Veiled Throne Of Ultima Thule' from 1996! Fans who have waited almost ten years to find out what happens next in this thrilling story will finally get their wish!
2) The best and most dynamic organic orchestral synth sounds ever heard! Much time and effort has been put into refining the famousBAL-SAGOTH keyboard sound to its ultimate level, and every advance in modern audial technology has been taken advantage of. On the sixth album fans will experience amazing symphonic sounds which exceed every other release, sounding totally and uncannily genuine. Real orchestra! Real choirs! Real metal!
3) Incredible new artwork and expansive lyric booklet! The lyric booklet for the sixth album will be the biggest and most elaborate one yet. Multiple full colour pages, in depth text and amazing new artwork by renowned fantasy artist Martin Hanford. The packaging for the sixth album will be the best publication so far."
German "dark Satanic metal band" MYSTIC CIRCLE have cancelled their previously announced live appearances between November 26 and December 17 due to "drummer problems." The group are currently seeking a new drummer for their upcoming world tour in support of their seventh full-length album, "The Bloody Path of God", tentatively due in early 2006 via Dockyard 1, the new company formed by Dirk Putzke, Christine Stephan (both ex-Sanctuary/Noise Records) and Piet Sielck (IRON SAVIOR). The new CD is being recorded with former MYSTIC CIRCLE drummer Necrodemon at the production helm.
MYSTIC CIRCLE issued a "best of" album, entitled "Mystic Circle Unholy Chronicles 1992–2004", last November via Massacre Records. The CD, which contains 18 songs spanning the group's entire career, includes a bonus DVD, featuring concert and backstage footage, as well as interviews and a video clip.
Finnish extreme metallers IMPALED NAZARENE have set "Pro Patria Finlandia" as the title of their ninth studio album, tentatively due on March 28, 2006 via Osmose Productions. The band will enter Sonic Pump studio in mid-November with producer Tapio Pennanen to begin recording the follow-up to 2003's "All That You Fear". Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Cancer", "For Those Who Have Fallen", "KUT", "Contempt" and "Hate-Despise-Arrogance". The group had previously described the new material as "fast, brutal as fuck, in-your-face IMPALED NAZARENE."
In other news, IMPALED NAZARENE will embark on a Latin American tour in late January 2006. Three shows in Mexico have already been confirmed, with more to follow.
As previously reported, the double 10" version of IMPALED NAZARENE's "Death Comes In 26 Carefully Selected Pieces" live album was released in September, limited to 500 copies. The band's "Latex Cult" (1996) and "Rapture" (1998) albums will be released in digipack format with new artwork and layout. Both CDs will be remastered at Finnvox studio and will include videos as an extra bonus.
DARK FUNERAL's new album, "Attera Totus Sanctus", has entered the Swedish national chart at position No. 35. It has also debuted on the Swedish heavy metal chart at No. 3.
As previously reported, the limited digipack version of "Attera Totus Sanctus" has been delayed until January 2006 "due to a complicated manufacturing process." The regular edition of the album was released in Europe on October 24 via Regain Records. The CD will arrive in the U.S. on November 29 via Candlelight Records USA.
DARK FUNERAL have uploaded two tracks from "Attera Totus Sanctus" at their official web site. Check out the songs "Godhate" ' and "666 Voices Inside" ' .
DARK FUNERAL's new album was recorded and mixed by Daniel Bergstrand (MESHUGGAH, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, IN FLAMES, BEHEMOTH) and Örjan Örnkloo (MISERY LOVES CO.) at Dug-Out studios in Uppsala, Sweden between May 23 and July 15, and August 8 and August 19, 2005. Mastering duties were handled by Tomas Eberger at the Cutting Room in Stockholm, Sweden. The CD features a guest appearance by former MESHUGGAH bassist Gustaf Hielm.
DARK FUNERAL currently features vocalist/bassist Emperor Magnus Caligula, guitarist Lord Ahriman, guitarist Chaq Mol, and drummer Matte Modin.
Swedish black/death metallers THE LEGION, featuring current MARDUK drummer Emil Dragutinovic, have set "Revocation" as the title of their sophomore album, tentatively due in early 2006 via France's Listenable Records. The artwork was once again designed by Kris Verwimp (MARDUK, ABSU, IMMORTAL), who had previously worked with the group on their debut album, "Unseen to Creation".
THE LEGION's debut album, "Unseen to Creation" was released in October 2003 through Listenable. The CD was recorded at Abyss Studios with producer Tommy Tägtgren and features "ten songs of complex and eclectic black/death metal, ranging in style from MORBID ANGEL to SETHERIAL."
"The album 'In the Depths of R'lyeh' is finished and will soon be in the process of mastering. No exact release date is set as of yet (early 2006), but it will be available first and immediately through Moribund Records, and soon thereafter at other distros around the world." Samples will be available within the next couple of weeks.
Tracklisting; I. In the Depths of R'lyeh II. Dead Dripping City III. At the Edge of the Abyss IV. Where No Light Hath Shone... (But For That of the Moon) V. Fallen Into Shadow VI. Awakening of the World's Doom (Reprise)
' recently conducted an interview with former ANCIENT frontwoman Deadly Kristin. An excerpt from the question-and-answer session follows:
HailMetal.com: I'd like to start with a question which was on everyone's mind for a long time. Have you converted to Islam and how do you combine the religion (or Sufism) in your case with Satanism?
Deadly Kristin: "Wow, we begin with a very sharp and good question. I can't say I have converted, as I didn't have any religion prior to Islam. My mind had always been troubled by existential questions since when I was a kid. I have always been deep and always questioned what I was being told. I wanted to think with my own head as most of the things adults were saying didn't make sense to me. I started to observe life around me, the human behaviour, I started to study science, philosophy, astronomy, biology, physics, chemistry and builded myself a culture. I observed nature and the laws that rule it, I spent nights in deep meditation wondering about the meaning of life, the meaning of death, the creation of the universe. I put together the pieces of the big puzzle and I saw what all these sciences had in common. Starting from that basis, I began to formulate my own theories on life, on the universe, on everything. In these years I spent hundreds of beautiful hours talking with intellectual and educated people from different countries, different cultures and different backgrounds. We discussed existential topics and exchanged views and ideas. I exposed my own theories which were often considered very interesting and valuable. Still some things were driving me insane as in my theories I had some gaps, some things to which I still didn't have an answer. I couldn't see the totality of things because in my head I was denying the concept of divinity, of a surpreme entity that dominated the creation. I didn't think there was a god because of the multitude of bad and unfair things that happen in this world. I was thinking: if there is a god, why doesn't he show himself, why does he allow these things to happen?
"At a point of my life, I even thought that if there was a god then he must have been good and evil at the same time. That would have been the only explanation to everything. To why we are given life and then it is taken away from us, to why we have to go through injustice, pain and suffering. To why we are given the blessing of having a family and lovely people around us and then we see them die, leaving us in total despair and agony.
"When I first met Abdullah Hamzah of CELT ISLAM SOUNDSYSTEM and Dawoud Kringle, who are now my best friends and band mates in ANALOGUE FAKIR, we started talking about all this. They were the first people I was talking to who could not only understand perfectly my theories, but could also fill me in where I had gaps. They introduced me to sufism and to Islam. When I started to read the Qur'an I was very curious and eager to see if I could find something similar to my theories there...and not only I did find it, I even got to know more about what I had assumed and found the answer to all the questions that always troubled my heart. Believe me, I am someone who doesn't get influenced very easily, I was the biggest non-believer and I always based my theories on matter of facts not on dogma. The Qur'an is an incredible source of information on life itself and its meaning. You can read precise and scientific details on how the universe was created, on the laws that dominate it, details on the relation of time and space, of the phases of development of embryos! Plus also incredible important revelations for oceanology, astrology etc. The Qur'an was written in 610 A.D., in a time where science was very basic and technology didn't exist. The funny thing is that modern science is discovering NOW, at the present moment what already was explained in the Qur'an about 1.400 years ago! The theory of the big bang for istance, the very recent discovery that the universe is actually in constant expansion (and not stable and immobile within its limits like it was always thought), the also very recent theory of the Big Crunch, which says that one day the universe will collapse on itself and return to the condition of its origin the one that originated the big bang. All this and more is written in the Qur'an and there is no doubt for me that is the word of God, because any other explanation wouldn't be possible. If you are interested in reading about the scientific miracles of the Qur'an I can reccomand this wonderful website: miraclesofthequran.com. As far as my old idea of God that could be good and evil at the same time, Allah represents this very well. He is the infinitely merciful but also an incredible punisher. The bad things that happen in life are tests on people and everything happens for a reason. The reason why a lot of evil and disgusting people get all the money and power is to give them the illusion they are sufficient to themselves and increase their lack of faith. The more they have the more they become ungrateful, the more they become their own gods, the more they become arrogant...and the greater punishment will have in the afterlife, which is the real life, not this one.
"As far as Satanism [is concerned], I never claimed to be a satanist. In fact in the past I didnt even believe in Satan just like I didnt believe in God as I thought they were just an invention of Christianity. I wrote anti-religious lyrics in the past because I was very pissed off at people who claimed to be religious and they don't even know what their religion is about. They just believe in what they have been told and they don't use their heads. I don't have much appreciation for people who are like sheep and don't use their brains. My choice for Islam was motivated and studied for long. On another note you may want to realize that most bands use 'Satan' as a symbol of rebellion, as a metaphore. They dont go out and slaughter goats and rape babies during black masses. If they do they are really stupid. To my eyes who adores Satan was just as dumb as someone who adored Jesus Christ or any other god. For the same reasons I told you before."
Norwegian black metallers KEEP OF KALESSIN, featuring Obsidian C. (a.k.a. Arnt GrГёnbech, also a touring guitarist for SATYRICON) on guitars/bass/synth, have set a March 27, 2006 release date for their new album, entitled "Armada". "KEEP OF KALESSIN has currently picked up working on the album and will finish it by 1st December," the band write on their web site. "A huge promo campaign is planned and the album is already anticipated as one of the best metal releases of 2006! Combining the atmosphere of EMPEROR's 'In the Nightside Eclipse' with a great dynamic production and the takeoffs in 'Come Damnation', you will experience chills down your spine on every song!!"
KEEP OF KALESSIN's "Armada" will be released via the Norwegian label Tabu Recordings, a division of Tuba Records. Vyl is playing drums on the album and a new bass player, Wizziac, is being introduced. MAYHEM singer Attila Chisar is doing some additional vocals, but he will not be the frontman anymore. The band will try out different vocalists in the studio to find the one who matches the music best. The group's complete lineup will be revealed when the recording sessions are completed.
KEEP OF KALESSIN's most recent mini-album, "Reclaim", was released in December 2003 through FaceFront Records. The group's first release since 1999's "Agnen: A Journey through the Dark" (Avantgarde), "Reclaim" has been described as a new milestone in Norwegian black metal by the Norwegian press. "Reclaim" is available in the U.S. through The End mail-order.
According to a ' published in the October 18, 2005 edition of the Metro newspaper, a British teenage heavy metal fan has been handed a community service order for wearing an offensive t-shirt.
Adam Shepherd, 19, was reportedly convicted under new anti-hate laws which ban people from displaying religiously insulting signs.
The teenager was arrested after a woman complained to police when she saw his shirt, which promotes extreme heavy metal band CRADLE OF FILTH.
The t-shirt shows a picture of a nun in a pornographic pose. On the back is a comment about Jesus (view the t-shirt design at ' ). The top was being worn by Shepherd's girlfriend when a police officer approached her. As soon as the teenager realized there was a problem, he told the officer it was his and swapped tops with his girlfriend. But he refused to take it off or cover it up and was arrested.
Shepherd, who bought the shirt in his hometown of Weymouth, Dorset, admitted the charge. Weymouth magistrates gave him 80 hours community service and told him to pay £40 costs (approx. $71).
Meanwhile, ' reports that Adam "can't have been prosecuted under the 'new anti-hate laws' because they do not exist." However, a bit of research shows that the wearing of this T-shirt has led to at least two previous convictions in the U.K.
Dale Wilson, 35, of Norwich, was ' by two police officers as he walked to the newsagents on Halloween 2004. He pleaded guilty to "religiously aggravated offensive conduct." He was eventually ' and told to "grow up." He paid £150 costs (approx. $266), and the judge ordered that the T-shirt be destroyed.
Back in 1997, Rob Kenyon, 29, of London was ' of committing the offense of "Profane Representation under the 1839 Act" by Bow Street Magistrates Court. He was fined £150.
CRADLE OF FILTH drummer Nicholas Barker was also arrested in Dover and charged with "creating a public disorder" for wearing the same t-shirt. There were no further proceedings against him.
From the ' : In 2001, the then-Lord Provost of Glasgow, Alex Mosson, campaigned to have the t-shirt prevented from being sold at Tower Records. The record shop was raided on two occasions by police, and eventually agreed to stop stocking the garment. The ' , back in ' (amusing "Victory for Sickos" story) and ' (their call to action), also complained bitterly about the t-shirt.
Moscow-based thrash metal band ZATMENIE have re-signed with Misteria Zvuka to release their second as-yet-untitled album. The album will include 10 tracks, mostly composed during recording, February-August 2005.
Pavel Mikheev (guitar/vocals): "...to be honest, we intended to make an album absolutely different from what we have by now. When our first album was released, we already had written a couple of instrumentals and even whole songs. Primarily in a debut album's vein but slower and harder a bit. We dropped all of them exept four in January and started work on a new material."
ZATMENIE have just finished shooting for the upcoming album and at the moment working on release parties arrangement and upcoming tour.
Long-running Floridian death metallers MALEVOLENT CREATION have reportedly parted ways with guitarist Rob Barret and bassist Gordon Simms. Replacing them in the group's latest incarnation are returning members John Rubin (guitar) and Jason Blachowicz (bass, also in DIVINE EMPIRE).
MALEVOLENT CREATION are currently writing the music for their tenth studio album, to be released sometime in the spring/summer of 2006.
Melodic rockers ASIA change their line-up: drummer Chris Slade has left the band, replacement comes with Jay Schellen. Schellen had already contributed to the recordings of the last album "Silent Nation" and is known to progressive rock fans as collaborator of Chris Squire's and Billy Sherwood's Conspiracy band project. He is celebrating his live debut with Asia on a tour of Great Britain in November. Following the tour the band will enter the studio in order to record the successor of "Silent Nation". The album with the working title "Architect of Time" should be out in the first half year of 2006. www.asiaworld.org
At the end of September InsideOut Music will take over the distribution of the complete repertoire of the British reissue specialists of ECLECTIC DISCS. At the moment Eclectic's catalogue consists of about 40 albums released in high quality design, e.g. records by AUDIENCE, BARCLAY JAMES HARVEST, CARAVAN, EAST OF EDEN, GILES, GILES & FRIPP, KHAN, MANDALABAND, and NEKTAR. The catalogue is permanently expanded. New releases, including a sumptuously designed 5 CD box by Barclay James Harvest, is announced for October and November. www.eclecticdiscs.com
New Artrockers RIVERSIDE have almost completed the work on their second longplayer "Second Life Syndrome". During concerts in Belgium and the Netherlands they will already play material from this record which will probably be out on 31st October. On November 19th the Polish band will be headliner of the "Eclipsed" festival at the Aschaffenburg venue Colos Saal. www.riverside.art.pl
You have heard singer JB as new SPIRITUAL BEGGARS frontman on the predecessor of their latest album "Demons". Unfortunately, in this new line-up the band had relatively made rare live appearances lately. One of those rare live gigs is immortalized on the DVD "Live Fire". It will be out at the end of October and documents a Beggars concert from the year 2003 in the London Club "Mean Fiddler" club. www.spiritualbeggars.com
Just in time to coincide with the second part of their "Octane" tour at the beginning of October the "new" SPOCK'S BEARD will have their first live live album out. The double album "Live in 2005 - Gluttons For Punishment" contains, apart from pieces of both albums with Nick D'Virgilio on the mike, "Octane" (2005) and "Feel Euphoria" (2003), highlights of the meanwhile legendary era with multi talented Neal Morse as well: classics such as "Harm's Way", "At The End Of The Day", and "The Light" are interpreted by original drummer D'Virgilio with such an ardour as if he had never done anything else. Another highlight is the "drummers' duel" between tour drummer Jimmy Keegan and Nick D'Virgilio. Since Keegan's collaboration this is a permanent part of every concert and it seems it will be really reach a similar cult status such as the crazy duets of Collins and Thompson of past Genesis concerts. www.spocksbeard.com
STREAM OF PASSION is the name of a new band project with gothic touch featuring an international line-up. The project was initiated by Ayreon mastermind Arjen Lucassen from the Netherlands. Around Mexican female singer Marcela Bovio, known from Ayreon's latest album "The Human Equation", he gathered American lead guitarist Lori Linstruth, Mexican piano player Alejandro MillАn, Lucassen's countrymen Johan van Stratum (bass) and Davy Mickers (drums) as well as Lucassen himself on guitar. The debut album "Embrace The Storm" will not be out in September as originally planned but only at the end of October. www.streamofpassion.com
PETE TOWNSHEND will re-release big parts of his back catalogue on InsideOut's Reissue-Label Revisited Records in Europe. The series will start with the work compilation "Anthology" in October. +++ The new GURU GURU studio album "In the Guru Lounge" will be the forerunner of a series of eight reissues of the legendary Krautrockers around drumming dervish and "Elektrolurch" Mani Neumeier. "In The Guru Lounge", "Mani und seine Freunde", and "Moshi Moshi" will be out on October 17th. +++ Since the Seventies the much too often ignored FRANK MARINO is cultivating his partly psychedelic guitar rock which is characterized by long improvisations - and he does this on a level comparable to virtuoso artists such as Gallagher, Hendrix, or Stevie Ray Vaughan. In September a series of reissues with albums by Frank Marino & Mahogany Rush will start. +++ In November Revisited Records continues its KRAAN series with "Flyday", "Dancing In The Shade", and "Live 2001". www.guru-guru.com www.kraan.de www.mahoganyrush.com www.petetownshend.co.uk
------------ NEW RELEASES ------------
KINGS'S X: "Ogre Tones", RELEASE: September 26th SIEGES EVEN: "The Art Of Navigating By The Stars", RELEASE: September 26th SPOCK'S BEARD: "Live in 2005 - Gluttons For Punishment" (double CD), RELEASE: September 5th THE TEA PARTY: "Seven Circles", RELEASE: September 26th
------------- STILL CURRENT -------------
CARPTREE: "Man Made Machine", RELEASE: August 29th STRING CHEESE INCIDENT: "One Step Closer", RELEASE: August 29th
-------------- IN PREPARATION --------------
STEVE HOWE: "Homebrew 3", RELEASE: October 10th NEAL MORSE: "?" (yes, that's the title of this album), RELEASE: October 24th PALLAS: "The Dreams Of Men", RELEASE: October 24th RIVERSIDE: "Second Life Syndrome", RELEASE: October 31st SPIRITUAL BEGGARS: "Live Fire" (DVD), RELEASE: October 31st STREAM OF PASSION: "Embrace The Storm", RELEASE: October 24th
-------- RE-ISSUE --------
GURU GURU: "In The Guru Lounge", new studio album, RELEASE: October 17th GURU GURU: "Mani und seine Freunde", RELEASE: October 17th GURU GURU: "Moshi Moshi ", RELEASE: October 17th FRANK MARINO & MAHOGANY RUSH: "Full Circle", RELEASE: September 19th FRANK MARINO & MAHOGANY RUSH: "Eye Of The Storm", RELEASE: September 19th KRAAN: "Flyday", RELEASE: November KRAAN: "Dancing In The Shade", RELEASE: November KRAAN: "Live 2001", RELEASE: November PETE TOWNSHEND: "Anthology", RELEASE: October
Nightwish recorded "End Of An Era" -live release yesterday evening in Hartwall-Arena, Helsinki. As you can imagine, the atmosphere in the Arena was wild but also quite blue. This was the ending for a one and a half year lasting "Once"-World Tour. Nightwish wishes to thank everybody for an unbelievable tour.
Unfortunately the title "End Of An Era" also holds a deeper meaning. The open letter, which was given to Tarja after the show, tells it all. You can read it here:
Dear Tarja,
It`s time to choose whether the story of Nightwish ends here or whether it will still continue an undetermined period of time. We`ve been working with this creation for 9 years and we are not ready to give up yet. Nightwish is a way of life, something to live for, and we`re certain we can`t let it go.
Equally certain is the fact that we cannot go on with you and Marcelo any longer. During the last year something sad happened, which I`ve been going over in my head every single day, morning and night. Your attitude and behavior don`t go with Nightwish anymore. There are characteristics I would never have believed to see in my old dear friend. People who don`t talk with each other for a year do not belong in the same band.
We are involved in an industry where the business-side of things is a necessary evil and something to worry about all the time. We are also a band which has always done music from the heart, because of friendship and the music itself. The mental satisfaction should always be more important than money! Nightwish is a band, it`s an emotion.
To you, unfortunately, business, money, and things that have nothing to do with those emotions have become much more important. You feel that you have sacrificed yourself and your musical career for Nightwish, rather than thinking what it has given to you. This attitude was clearly shown to me in the two things you said to me in an airplane in Toronto: .I don`t need Nightwish anymore.. and .Remember, Tuomas, that I could leave this band at any time, giving you only one day`s warning in advance.. I can`t simply write any more songs for you to sing.
You have said yourself that you are merely a .guest musician. in Nightwish. Now that visit ends and we will continue Nightwish with a new female vocalist. We`re sure this is an equally big relief to you as it is for us. We have all been feeling bad long enough.
You told us that no matter what, the next Nightwish album will be your last one. However, the rest of us want to continue as long as the fire burns. So there`s no sense in doing that next album with you, either. The four of us have been going over this situation countless times and we have realized that this is the thing we want to do in life. It?s all we can do. In December 2004, in Germany, you said that you will never tour again for more than two weeks at a time. You also said that we can forget about U.S. and Australia because the fees and the sizes of venues are too small.
In interviews I`ve mentioned that if Tarja leaves, that would be the end of the band. I understand that people will think this way. Nightwish is, however, a scenery of my soul and I`m not ready to let go because of one person. A person who wants to focus her creativity to somewhere else, a person whose values don`t match mine.
We were never bothered by the fact that you didn`t participate in writing/arranging songs, you never in 9 years came to rehearse the songs with us before going to the studio. Not the fact that while on tour you always wanted to fly, separately from us with your husband. Not the fact that you are an undisputable front image of the band. We accepted and felt ok about everything except greed, underestimating the fans, and breaking promises. It was agreed by the five of us that Nightwish would be the priority in everything that we do during 2004-2005. Still so many things were more important to you. The ultimate example being the already sold-out show in Oslo, which you wanted to cancel because you needed to rehearse for your solo concerts, meet frieds and go to the movies. Those were the words Marcelo used in an e-mail explaining the cancellation. This being just one example of so many. I couldn`t think of a worse way of being selfish and dismissing our fans.
Nightwish is a way of life and a job with many obligations. To each other and to the fans. With you we can`t take care of those duties anymore.
Deep within we don`t know which one of you drove us to this point. Somehow Marcelo has changed you from the lovely girl you were into a diva, who doesn`t think or act the way she used to. You are too sure of your irreplaceableness and status.
It`s obvious that you blame your stress and misery on us four. And you think we don`t respect or listen to you. Belive us; We have always had the uppermost respect towards you as a wonderful vocalist and as a friend. And very often during the past couple of years the plans were made according to your decisions only. You were always the only one who wanted more money from the shows. This .compensation and more money from everything. .attitude is the fact that we are most disappointed of!
We wish that from now on you will listen to your heart instead of Marcelo. Cultural differences combined with greed, opportunism and love is a dangerous combination. Do not wither yourself.
This decision is not something we are especially proud of but you gave us no choice. The gap between us is too wide. And the decision is made by us four unanimously. We are beyond the point where things could be settled by talking.
The 7" EP with Worship and Loss (USA) is out! It contains Worship's 'Devived', which is a sneak peak at the album "Dooom", and which is the 1st song of the post-Max era with me The Doommonger on lead guitars and vocals, Satachrist on guitars, and Kuolema on Drums and Bass. Recorded at worldsEND Studio by Kuolema It's limited so as usual: undoomy quickness recommended.
Polish black metallers BEHEMOTH are currently in the middle of their most prestigious U.S. tour with DANZIG, CHIMAIRA, HIMSA, MORTIIS and THE AGONY SCENE. The band have just hit the East Cost. Mainman Nergal checks in from the road with the following statement:
"This tour has been great success for us. Every night we play in front of 1,000-2,000 people which is nothing but awesome! Being the most extreme band on the bill makes it really challenging, but all I can say after doing 17 shows is that we definitely managed to conquer most of those crowds."
Nergal continues: "San Francisco was one of this tour's highlights for us. Surprisingly every show there is better and better. Cleveland was also the best show we've played in this city so far and I'm happy we finally made it up for those who missed us on KING DIAMOND tour there. Ah, yeah…I can't forget to mention the party with MESHUGGAH and GOD FORBID plus our labelmates that went on few blocks from the venue. It was WILD, I can assure you! My body is still suffering from this night though ha ha…By the way, thanx to Sean for hooking us up with sooooo many drinks! Cheers bro!
"Jaxx was probably the best off show on this tour. It looks like we have a great following there. Respect to all those crazy freaks who made this night so memorable! A special hello to those cute bartenders, ha ha…u know why. Montreal was nothing but amazing. I could go one forever with complements on how great the Canadian crowd is…and I really mean it. NYC was a killer show too despite the fact that my amp went dead during the set…
"We are in Providence now. Before the show, Orion, Malta and I took a walk downtown and let me tell u something: this is one of the most charming places I've visited in this country. I ended up buying some IGGY POP, HANK WILLIAMS III and new DEPECHE MODE CDs in the local record store while Orion got himself a sweet ILSA 3-DVD box set. The concert itself was fun, ha ha. Those who showed up, know what I mean. It was cool watching these surprised faces when we entered the stage. They seemed to be shit-scared, but by the end of the show we made them move and go crazy…the whole point of this tour. Fuck yeah."
In other news, BEHEMOTH drummer Inferno has just signed an endorsement deal with the drum-stick company Vic Firth. Marco Soccoli, the company’s A&R guy, had a meeting with Inferno on October 17 in New York. Within a few weeks, Inferno will get his first signed drum sticks manfucatured. This is what Inferno had to say about it:
"I'd like to send my huge appreciation to Marco for making this deal happen. This is the best sticks I've (ab)used, ever! Can't wait to play my signed models!"
German melodic metallers EDGUY have posted the following message on their official web site:
"Against certain rumors and speculations, Tobias Sammet [EDGUY vocalist] has not undergone a sex change operation yet: 'Of course, after the success of NIGHTWISH, WITHIN TEMPTATION and EVANESCENCE, we sat down to discuss what kind of sacrifice we'd have to make to hit big time with this new album. In time of female vocal domination, we came to the conclusion that it's the penis that stands in our way. I mean — literally, of course! That being said, to avoid any rumors: if it's gonna happen I'd become a lesbian woman. In case this trend is gone and we're too late, our drummer Felix considers to join me to the operating room and become a cockatoo. Though we talked him into believing that cockatooed drummered bands are gonna be the next big thing it's not for business reasons. Felix discovered his cockatooish side just when reaching puberty. Ever since he's felt like having been born in the wrong shell. He's more that cockatoo kind of guy, you all know what I mean. Whatever, in case all this won't work, we just recorded the most ambitious EDGUY album so far — just to be on the safe side. It's the most diversified stuff and we'll post the songtitles soon. The first press reactions are superb and I feel not playing it close to the chest was the best thing we could have done. It's still EDGUY at any second, it's funny here and melancholic there, fast and slow and really diversified. You'll hear 'Rocket Ride' on January 20th. And the first part of the tour is booked too. Tickets are gonna be available early next week, watch out for some real big entertaining HM-party. See you all and stay metal. You are the best."
German black metallers DARK FORTRESS have finished recording their fifth album, "Séance". "At the moment guitarist and producer V. Santura is doing the mix of the album and as soon as the band has decided which label they will sign to (in the beginning of November), 'Séance' will be mastered by Alex Krull in the Mastersound Studios. The whole layout has been also completed now by mastermind Travis Smith himself, so that you can expect something special again."
In other news, a limited LP version of DARK FORTRESS' debut album, "Tales from Eternal Dusk" (2001) is available for a price of 15 euros. You can order your copy directly from the band or from different mailorder companies, such as Grau.
Sweden's Close-Up magazine recently spoke to the four ROADRUNNER UNITED team captains Dino Cazares (ASESINO, ex-FEAR FACTORY, BRUJERIA), Joey Jordison (SLIPKNOT), Robert Flynn (MACHINE HEAD) and Matthew Heafy (TRIVIUM). In addition, Roadrunner Records Senior Director of A&R Monte Conner gives his input on the gigantic project. Following are some excerpts from the article.
Cazarez on the upcoming ROADRUNNER UNITED concert at the Nokia Theatre in New York City on December 15 (Dino is one of the confirmed members of the core backing band for the entire show):
"I've told Monte that I have no problem with Burton [C. Bell, FEAR FACTORY vocalist] coming up on stage to do 'Replica'. I would never be in FEAR FACTORY again, but if it’s for a special cause I wouldn't have a problem with one of those guys [in FEAR FACTORY] joining me on stage."
Cazares on his brand-new project:
"I've found a new drummer in Tim Yeung, who was in NILE and HATE ETERNAL. We've written seven songs and are trying out singers right now. As soon as [we've found the right vocalist] we're ready to go. This is something that Monte wants to release. Roadrunner has been a big part of my life and I want to stay with them."
Matthew Heafy on what his collaboration with CRADLE OF FILTH vocalist Dani Filth on the song "Dawn of a Golden Age" might lead to:
"I've always wanted to start a black metal side project, so I might ask Dani Filth if he wants to sing on a few more songs. Black metal is almost as big a passion to me as TRIVIUM. I like the atmosphere and the whole scene, the mystique and its bloody past. I collect records, t-shirts and other black metal stuff."
Robert Flynn on whether or not he wanted to save any of his ROADRUNNER UNITED songs for MACHINE HEAD:
"Some parts of 'Independent (Voice of the Voiceless)' were hard to part with, but 'The Dagger' was really difficult to part with. I even told Monte: 'If Howard [Jones, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE vocalist] doesn't wanna sing on it, I'm saving it for the next MACHINE HEAD record."
Monte Conner on why the most commercially successful artist on the label, NICKELBACK frontman Chad Kroeger, doesn't appear on ROADRUNNER UNITED's "The All-Star Sessions" album:
"We sent 'Army of the Sun' [the Flynn track which current BLOODSIMPLE and former VISION OF DISORDER frontman Tim Williams ended up singing on] to Chad, but he was just too busy in the studio recording the new NICKELBACK album. We then went after his brother Mike and tried to get him to play bass on that song and Matt Heafy's 'Blood and Flames'. Same story there, he just didn't have the time. We desperately tried to get Chad on the album, even if some metalheads would've given us shit. We felt that he very much belonged on it. NICKELBACK is a key band on the label and has changed the face of Roadrunner. The rock side of Roadrunner, which NICKELBACK represents, isn't going away and will exist side-by-side with all the metal."
Audio clips of six songs from the upcoming RAMMSTEIN album, "Rosenrot", have been posted online at '
"Rosenrot" is scheduled for release in Germany on October 28 via Universal. A limited-edition version of the album will include a bonus DVD featuring three live video clips recorded earlier in the year. A U.S. release date for the CD has yet to be announced.
RAMMSTEIN's video for their new single, "Benzin", can be viewed by clicking ' . The clip was was shot in August by Uwe Flade, who has also directed videos for DEPECHE MODE and FRANZ FERDINAND.
As previously reported, RAMMSTEIN are nominated in the category "Best Live Act" for the "Eins Live" Krone award. Germany's biggest radio awards ceremony will be held at the Arena Oberhausen on November 24, 2005 and will be broadcast live by Eins Live radio at 7:00 p.m. and on TV by the WDR at 10:00 p.m. To vote for RAMMSTEIN, click ' .
Finland's AMORPHIS have set "Eclipse" as the title of their new album, tentatively due in February via Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to last year's "Far from the Sun" was recorded at Sonic Pump studios in Helsinki with engineer Nino Laurenne (THUNDERSTONE). The production duties were handled by the band and Marco Hietala (NIGHTWISH) for vocals. The mixing was taken care of by Mikko Karmila (who previously worked with the group on their "Am Universum" CD) at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki.
"Eclipse" track listing:
01. Two Moons 02. House of Sleep 03. Leaves Scar 04. Born from Fire 05. Under a Soil and Black Stone 06. Perkele (The God of Fire) 07. The Smoke 08. Same Flesh 09. Brother Moon 10. Empty Opening
Commented guitarist Esa Holopainen: "We just had listening session at Nuclear Blast office and feedback seems to be really positive. I quess we have to organize another session for Finnish reporters but I'm not sure if we have enough money to cover their drinks. Finnish reporters are extremely thirsty. But still, more they drink, better they like the album! :) Way to go!"
It's sad to say, but Mechanical Poet is no more. After 3 years of rocking we have decided to stop our musical journey because of personal and creative differences. This game is over but the life still goes on. We want to thank all our fans and fellows and wish you good luck! Remember that the end of the road is not the end of the whole story. All music already written for Mechanical Poet albums ''Troglodytes'', ''Urban Hiders'' and ''Michelle'' will surely be released in future by another band. Watch out for the news on MechanicalPoet.Net, SonnyGrimm.Com and Epidemia.Ru to read more about future life of Poets.
Finnish folk metallers KORPIKLAANI will enter Fantom studio on November 17 to begin recording their third album, entitled "Tales along This Road". A tentative March/April 2006 release is expected.
The group's second album under their current moniker (the group released two albums as SHAMAN), "Voice of Wilderness" was released last January via Napalm Records.
IMMORTAL frontman Abbath (real name: Olve Eikemo) has reportedly joined forces with original IMMORTAL drummer Armagedda, ENSLAVED guitarist Arve Isdal and GORGOROTH bassist King in a brand-new project dubbed simply I. The group have finished writing two-thirds of the material for their upcoming full-length debut, which will feature lyrics written primarily by former IMMORTAL guitarist Demonaz (real name: Harald Nævdal). The band, who expect to enter the studio before the end of 2005, are said to be contemplating making several festival appearances next year. More information will be made available soon.
A preview clip of EPICA's video for the track Quietus has been posted online at ' (Windows Media, 9.7 MB).
The Quietus single (view cover ' ) will be released later this month via Transmission Records. It will be made available in two versions
1) Two-track single (release date October 21) Quietus (Silent Reverie) - single version Linger - previously unreleased track
2) Four-track maxi single (release date October 28) Quietus (Silent Reverie) (single version) Crystal Mountain (previously unreleased orchestral version) Quietus (Silent Reverie) (grunt version) Crystal Mountain (previously unreleased track)
Quietus comes off EPICA's sophomore album, Consign to Oblivion, which was released in April via Transmission Records. The band issued their first DVD, We Will Take You With Us 2 Meter Sessies, in September 2004. The disc came in a limited-edition deluxe ECO-Book (containing a 40-page booklet) with an additional bonus CD containing all of the 2 Meter Sessies recordings.
German industrial metallers RAMMSTEIN discuss the controversial single "Mann Gegen Mann" ("Man On Man") from their new album "Rosentot" in the latest issue of the Swedish magazine Close-Up. In the chorus, the word "schwule" (German for "faggot") is uttered repeatedly. In the article, RAMMSTEIN vocalist Till Lindemann asks the reporter: "Do you think it's homophobic?" When the reporter tells him that it easy to make that assumption, Lindemann responds: "It's natural [to perceive it that way], but it's just a song. It’s about gay men and the fact that they're lucky in a way. They never had to strut in front of girls and bring them ridiculous gifts or make dinner invitations. They just look at each other and decide to go home together. They're in a strange situation, but it's very easy for them to get laid. I write about this in a more poetic fashion. If you just hear the word [schwule] taken out of context it's provocative, but if you really listen to the lyrics you realize that it's not at all meant to be derogatory.
"I'm not going to give out any name, but an English band that we [RAMMSTEIN] are friends with has two gay members. We made a bet about something and if I were to lose I had to take the two of them out in Berlin one night and visit all the gay clubs in my neighborhood. Of course, I lost the bet, just like I always do. When we went out, I just thought: 'Wow! This is happening fast!' One glance and then both of them knew exactly what to do. I was jealous. I would love to walk up to a strange woman and go: 'Hi, you're hot. Wanna come back to my place?"
"Rosentot" also marks RAMMSTEIN's first attempt at doing a song entirely in Spanish, "Te Quiero Puta" ("I Love You Whore"). Lindemann explains the lyrical theme: "Some guys, maybe us in the band, ride on to a whorehouse. Some 'puta' opens the door and says, 'Hey, gringos!' These ladies don't do any poetic stuff. It's all about men, women, sex and partying. The story is about this guy who falls in love with one of the women. She tells him: 'I like you, but don't come here with that emotional stuff. I only like your 'fruita,' so let me taste it."
Lindemann co-wrote the lyrics to "Te Quiero Puta" with his Spanish-speaking fiancée. RAMMSTEIN will take most of 2006 off and the couple, who owns a rustic summerhouse in Costa Rica, will be vacationing in Latin America next year.
"I'm going to spend at least four or five months over there," says Lindemann. "Me and my fiancée are planning on taking a long trip. We will start in Argentina and make our way through Chile, Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia. Colombia we'll have to think consider further. It's a rather strange country and their white stuff is a little too much fun [laughs]."
For the first time in three years, Norway's GREEN CARNATION played the entire one-track, 60+minute epic "Light of Day, Day of Darkness" to an enthusiastic crowd that gathered at this year's Day Of The Equinox festival on Friday October 14 in Toronto, Canada.
The seven-piece outfit played a full 80-minute set of material from their past album "Blessing in Disguise" (2003) and latest offering, "The Quiet Offspring", before launching into the massive undertaking of performing the critically acclaimed masterpiece from 2001. Check out photos at ' .
"It was a special treat from us to the fans," said GREEN CARNATION singer Kjetil Nordhus about the playing of "Light of Day..." "We knew it would be a long set, and we came from so far away, so we knew this had to be a special night. And it was!"
Andreas Katsambas, owner of The End Records who was in attendance, commented, "I would like to thank all of the bands that came out and put on some great performances for the festival. Their unique styles made this a special event. And of course, it was great to see GREEN CARNATION play the two-hour set that included the entire 'Light of Day, Day of Darkness' album. Day of The Equinox was a real success and I hope to see this become an annual event that will grow with each year.'
GREEN CARNATION's founding member/guitarist Tchort offered these thought on Day Of The Equinox: "It was great to be a part of a great music festival, with a great lineup and a professional approach to running things. We were also amazed that fans traveled from as far as Japan and El Salvador to see us play. Aside from the foreign fans and those from Canada, many came up from Boston, Philadelphia, New Jersey, Atlanta and Arizona. We had a great time in Toronto, Canada — it was great to take in some sightseeing and good times with our friends and fans."
Also on the bill at Day Of The Equinox were AGALLOCH, DECEASED, NOVEMBERS DOOM, UNEXPECT and WOODS OF YPRES.
NICODEMUS Seek Keyboard Player Portland-based goth metallers NICODEMUS are seeking a full-time keyboard player for recording and touring. Keyboards on the band's previous albums had been handled by vocalist/bassist Christopher Morris. The group have decided to enlist the talents of a full-time keyboard player for future releases and tours. Interested candidates must be willing to relocate to the Pacific Northwest (Portland, Oregon area). Contact the band at info@nicodemus.us. Auditions will begin immediately.
NICODEMUS recently released their third album, entitled "Vanity Is A Virtue", through the Greek label Sonic Age Records. The album reportedly owes more to the progressive sound than previous NICODEMUS releases, 2000's "Tales of the Lovelorn and Necromantic" (Dark Throne Music) and 2003's "The Supernatural Omnibus" (Dark Symphonies), which saw the band focusing on a goth/black metal-based style with progressive elements. Готические металлеры из Портленда NICODEMUS ищут постоянного клавишника для записи и выступлений. В предыдущем альбоме группы клавишными занимался вокалист/басист Кристофер Моррис (Christopher Morris). Группа решила привлечь талантливого постоянного клавишника для последующих релизов и туров. Заинтересованные кандидаты должны иметь желание перебраться на Северо-западное побережье Тихого океана (Портленд, штат Орегон). С группой можно сконтактироваться по адресу info@nicodemus.us Прослушивание происходит сразу.
NICODEMUS недавно выпустили свой третий альбом «Vanity Is A Virtue» на греческом лейбле Sonic Age Records. Как отмечается, альбом приобрел более прогрессивное звучание, чем предыдущий релиз NICODEMUS 2000-го года «Tales of the Lovelorn and Necromantic» (Dark Throne Music) и 2003-го «The Supernatural Omnibus» (Dark Symphonies), которые, в свою очередь, показали, что группа сосредоточилась на goth/black metal стиле с прогрессивными элементами.
Fiona Sturges of the U.K.'s The Independent recently conducted an interview with MOTÖRHEAD frontman Ian "Lemmy" Kilmister. Several excerpts from the chat follow:
On having lived in Los Angeles for the past 15 years:
"Home is in here [tapping his temple]. Where you live is just a geographical preference. I like it here because the sun shines a lot and you don't get the cynical fucking English bitching about everything. I find the Americans quite refreshing. Everybody sneers at the 'Have a nice day' thing but it's a lot nicer than having your change thrown at you. [I have been disappointed in England] since about 1964. It's never recognized any of its own talent, it's never done anything to promote anything but the status quo. It'll always be stuck with rotten politicians. England had a history once but now it's got nothing."
On retirement:
"What have you got that's better than what I do? I get to travel all over the world, I get to sleep with women of all colours and religious persuasions, and I get to play the music I like and make people happier than they were when I arrived. It's a good way to make a living. You find me a better one."
On the suggestion that he might be getting too old for the job:
"You wouldn't say Beethoven was past it, would you? . . . THE BEATLES are the classical music of rock 'n' roll. And rock'n'roll is far more widespread than classical will ever be. So I don't see why there should be a point where everyone decides you're too old. I'm not too old, and until I decide I'm too old I'll never be too fucking old."
On a possible reality television career:
"I live on my own, so it's going to be pretty boring watching me eating my breakfast and playing video games all day, isn't it? And anyway, I'm not after the money. I'm after being in my band, making good music and meeting as many women as I can."
On having slept with more than 2,000 women and never settling down:
"I've never met a girl who could stop me looking at all the others. If I did I'd marry her. I'm not going to get married and play around. That's bullshit. If you get married you should be faithful."
On his two sons — 38 year-old Paul, who works as a record producer and whom he sees from time to time, and another who was adopted at birth:
"He's [the adopted son] a computer programmer in Bradford. His mother went up and found him. She's a social worker and wears these diaphanous paisley smocks. She said he put his head in his hands when she told him she was his mother so she hadn't the heart to tell him who his father was."
On whether or not he's curious to meet his adopted son:
"Nah. I figure if I go and meet him for the sake of my curiosity, it might ruin his life. It's better for everyone if I don't. I never met him so I don't miss him."
On whether he's ever yearned for family life:
"Fuck no. I went out with a couple of girls with young babies. I can give a baby a bottle with one hand and roll a joint with the other, but I never wanted any of that. Changing nappies is horrible. Kids are generally rotten until the age of about six, when they become people. No, it's not my scene."
On reading:
"There are a lot of good books around. People don't read any more. It's a sad state of affairs. Reading's the only thing that allows you to use your imagination. When you watch films it's someone else's vision, isn't it?"
On being introduced to acid by Jimi Hendrix when he was working as his roadie in the late Sixties:
"It made me realize what other people are about. Not that I'd recommend my lifestyle to anyone They wouldn't survive it."
On heroin:
"The only thing I ever saw anyone die on was heroin. Let that speak for itself."
On collapsing backstage this summer following a show in France as a result of severe dehydration:
"It was about 150 degrees on stage and our music takes a lot of energy. I got through the show all right but then 'Boom!' I was gone. It's always a shock when your body refuses to carry on for a while but it's an occupational hazard. If you work in a factory you run a heightened risk of getting your arm chewed up. And it's a lot better being dehydrated than getting your fucking arm chewed up."
On the suggestion that he should cut down on the boozing:
"Listen honey, if you didn't do anything that wasn't good for you it would be a very dull life. What are you gonna do? Everything that is pleasant in life is dangerous. Have you noticed that? I'd like to find the bastard that thought that one up."
On his favorite band during his teens, THE BEATLES:
"They would come on stage and you were just awestruck. They had that presence, which is very rare. Hendrix had it, Ozzy Osbourne has it to an extent. You've either got it or you haven't."
On being be a singer:
"I'm an egomaniac. I like being the centre of attention as much as anybody so I didn't mind. I was in it for the girls, to tell the truth. I think if more musicians told the truth, that would be the reason why most of them are in it. When you're young and you're desperate to get laid, you work out that being a bricklayer isn't that attractive. I was never going to be a doctor or a lawyer, so being a musician seemed to be the best of what was on offer."
On his lost education:
"[It's] something of an advantage. When you leave school with no qualifications you learn to live on the edge a bit, and you learn about hard graft. I think it's much better than spending five years in college and coming out knowing nothing of real life."
On his philosophy in life:
"As you go through life's rich tapestry, you realize that most people you meet aren't fit to shine your shoes. It's a sad fact, but it's true. A good friend is someone who'd hide you if you were on the run for murder. How many of them do you know? . . .This is me. What you see is what you get. If people don't like me or what I have to say, then fuck 'em. And that's my final word."
"The Gospel of Filth: A Black Metal Bible" is the title of a new book currently being written by music journalist Gavin Baddeley with the help of CRADLE OF FILTH frontman Dani Filth.
The novel includes popular myths about the group and each chapter is loosely based around one of the metal outfit's nine albums.
Commented Dani, "It's going to be a coffee table book, the sort of thing you can just flick through.
"Gavin's really well-versed in the occult and black metal and everything. I've read the first part and it's excellent.
"The opening's about the rise of the evil British Empire. It references why Hollywood always places a quintessential English gentleman in the role of the bad guy — people like Alan Rickman."
"The Gospel of Filth: A Black Metal Bible" (view cover ' ) official book description reads as follows:
"The members of CRADLE OF FILTH are the titans of black metal underground. Now Dani Filth and Gavin Baddeley lay bare the fascinating underworld of contemporary culture.
"Dissecting the Satanic sources that have influenced and informed CRADLE OF FILTH, with a roadmap to every significant landmark in the domains of darkness, including the arcane secrets of Black Magic, via the sex rites of vampirism. Artfully combining Hammer horror style schlock, dripping with eroticism, backed by authentic Black Arts info and a wicked sense of humor, this will dazzle devoted disciples of darkness. Contributors include actor Christopher Lee and Satanist Anton LaVey, to serial killer expert Robert Ressler and necrophile Karen Greenlee.
"About the Author: Gavin Baddeley is an ordained Reverend in the Church of Satan, and an experienced journalist who has worked for The Observer and Metal Hammer. He is the occult authority for the BBC and Channel 4, has addressed Cambridge, and has been profiled in The Independent and The London Evening Standard. His previous three books received wide acclaim.
"Dani Filth, singer and lyricist of CRADLE OF FILTH, is an outspoken figure in the rock world. In addition to numerous TV and journalistic features, he has also starred in the cult British horror film 'Cradle of Fear'.
"Note: There will be a very special edition of the book, leather bound and with a 'bonus' to be announced that will only be available via [CRADLE OF FILTH's official] website."
Canadian death metallers KATAKLYSM have tapped director Maurice Swinkels from LowlifeMedia (EXODUS, ABORTED, GOREFEST) to film the band's video for the track "Crippled & Broken", from their forthcoming album, "In the Arms of Devastation". The conceptual clip will be shot in Amsterdam, Netherlands in early March, shortly prior to the band's European co-headlining tour as part of the No Mercy festival.
KATAKLYSM's new album, "In the Arms of Devastation", is currently being mixed in Denmark by acclaimed producer Tue Madsen. A February 20, 2006 release via Nuclear Blast Records is expected.
German industrial metallers RAMMSTEIN have filmed a video for the second single off their upcoming "Rosenrot" album. According to the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet, Jonas Åkerlund (METALLICA, MADONNA, SATYRICON) was the director for "Mann Gegen Mann", which deals with the subject of "men on the edge of homosexuality." No word yet on when the new single or video will be released.
RAMMSTEIN's new album, "Rosenrot", is scheduled for release in Germany on October 28 via Universal. A limited-edition version of the album will include a bonus DVD featuring three live video clips recorded earlier in the year.
RAMMSTEIN's video for their new single, "Benzin", can be viewed by clicking ' . The clip was was shot in August by Uwe Flade, who has also directed videos for DEPECHE MODE and FRANZ FERDINAND.
Former GORGUTS members Steeve Hurdle (guitar, vocals; also ex-PURULENCE) and Luc Lemay (guitar, vocals) have joined forces in a new project called NEGATIVA, The band, whose lineup is completed by Dominic Lapointe (QUO VADIS, AUGURY, ATHERETIC) on bass and Etienne Gallo (AUGURY) on drums, will be entering the studio in the winter for a promo recording. A possible tour with TOWARDS DARKNESS and PAROXYSM in the spring of 2006 is also in the works.
In October, 2004, ANAL CUNT's Seth Putnam slipped into a coma after an overdose of Ambien sleeping pills. In an exlusive interview with the Boston Phoenix — his first and only interview since coming out of his coma — extreme metal's most notorious fuckup talks about what happened the night of his overdose, why his family fought to keep his condition a secret, and how he's determined to be the same asshole he's always been.
To accompany the story, Putnam gave the Phoenix an MP3 of the ANAL CUNT song "You're In a Coma", which is available along with exclusive photos and interview outtakes at '
Background: A year ago this month, ANAL CUNT frontman Seth Putnam went to a friend's place for a birthday party. Cake and ice cream were not on the menu. In the course of an evening, Seth says he consumed $200 worth of crack cocaine, an untraceable amount of heroin, and at least a fifth of whiskey, while consorting with a crowd that included pimps, prostitutes, and at least one convicted armed robber. He woke up feeling physically fine but wanting to commit suicide. He bought enough heroin to kill himself, cooked up a hot shot, and then . . . came to his senses and decided he wanted to live. There was just one problem. He couldn't sleep. So he popped a stash of Ambien — two months' worth — and accidentally fell into a coma. When he was ambulanced to the hospital, doctors said he'd have irreparable brain damage and discussed pulling the plug.
Poland's DARZAMAT will be mixing their new album, "Transkarpatia", with producer Andy LaRocque (KING DIAMOND guitarist) at LaRocque's Los Angered studio outside Gothenburg, Sweden.
Commented DARZAMAT frontman Flauros: "I am truly glad that DARZAMAT will be able to work with such an excellent musician as well as producer."
"Transkarpatia" will be released in early 2006 via the Polish label Metal Mind Productions.
"Transkarpatia" track listing:
01. Vampiric Prose 02. Hallucinations 03. The Burning Times 04. Letter from Hell 05. Blackward 06. Labyrinth of Anxiety 07. Recurring Yell 08. Virus 09. The Old Form of Worship 10. Equinox 11. Tempted by Rot 12. Tribute to...
On October 11 at the Heineken Music Hall in Amsterdam, DREAM THEATER performed PINK FLOYD's "Dark Side of the Moon" in its entirety as their second set. Tracks performed were as follows:
01. Speak to Me 02. Breathe 03. On The Run 04. Time 05. Breathe (Reprise) 06. The Great Gig in the Sky 07. Money 08. Us And Them 09. Any Colour You Like 10. Brain Damage 11. Eclipse
This continues DREAM THEATER's tradition of covering a "classic album" in entirety whenever doing a two-night stand in the same city (the band previous covered METALLICA's "Master of Puppets" and IRON MAIDEN's "The Number of the Beast" in 2002). Joining the group for the performance was Mike Kidson on saxophone (from "the Australian Pink Floyd Show") and Theresa Thomason (who previously appeared with DREAM THEATER on "Scenes from a Memory" and "Live Scenes from New York").
DRAGONFORCE have completed work on their eagerly anticipated third album, entitled "Inhuman Rampage". The follow-up to 2004's "Sonic Firestorm" contains eight brand new songs and will be released on January 9, 2006. The album recording sessions were made at Thin Ice Studios in Virginia Water (Surrey) and guitarist Herman Li's own studio in West London between April and September, while production duties were shared between Li, fellow axeman Sam Totman and keyboard player Vadim Pruzhanov.
"Inhuman Rampage" track listing:
01. Through the Fire and Flames 02. Revolution Deathsquad 03. Storming the Burning Fields 04. Operation Ground and Pound 05. Body Breakdown 06. Cry for Eternity 07. The Flame of Youth 08. Trail of Broken Hearts
Austrian "epic metal" band VISIONS OF ATLANTIS have announced the departure of singer Nicole Bogner. "Due to the changes in her personal and professional life, Nicole Bogner and VISIONS OF ATLANTIS have decided to go separate ways from now on," the band write on their web site. "The split with the female singer happened in friendship, and VISIONS OF ATLANTIS want to thank Nicole for everthing she has done with and for the band."
Replacing Nicole in VISIONS OF ATLANTIS' lineup is professional soprano singer Melissa Ferlaak (' ).
"Melissa Ferlaak, 26 from Minneapolis , Minnesota , graduated with a master's degree from New England Conservatory in Boston, Massachusetts in 2003 for vocal performance. She has worked in the operatic field, most recently as Musetta in 'La Boheme', and has been singing with AESMA DAEVA.
A three-minute audio clip of the re-recorded version of the FALKENBACH track "Heralder" has been posted online at ' . The new version of the song (the original was a bonus track for the picture LP version of "...En Their Medh Riki Fara...") will appear on the group's forthcoming album, "Heralding the Fireblade", due on November 25 via Napalm Records. It will be issued both as a limited-edition digipack, featuring one bonus track, and a regular jewel-case version. The track listing for the effort is as follows:
01. Heathen Foray 02. Of Forests Unknown 03. Havamal 04. Roman Land 05. Heralder * 06. Laeknishendr 07. Walkiesjar 08. Skirnir 09. Gjallar **
* re-recorded version
** re-recorded version of an old track originally featured on the "Skinn Av Sveri Sol Valtiva" demo
SAVAGE CIRCUS dream of coming to your manor It's not about your manor but about the next good club and stage: Currently SAVAGE CIRCUS are negotiating with different agencies about touring possibilities. Piet, Thomen, Jens and Emil are eager to show you the impact of "Dreamland Manor" live. Stay tuned and check www.dockyard1.com for coming tourdates!
We welcome LAKE OF TEARS! Welcome home Lake Of Tears. The whole team at Dockyard 1 is proud to welcome Lake Of Tears to the label. The Swedish Gothic Rock heroes will deliver their 7th full length album in Spring 2006.
AFTER ALL to support CANDLEMASS and DESTRUCTION Our Belgian band AFTER ALL is already anxiously looking forward - AFTER ALL are going on the HELLHOUNDZ OF DOOM AND THRASH tour with CANDLEMASS and DESTRUCTION in November.
IN QUEST take the harvest together with NILE Advanced technical Death Metal from Belgium meets - advanced technical death metal from one of the bands who paved their way, NILE. Our mathematics masterminds join the devoted egyptologists on their second leg of the tour starting from 21st of september that will guide them from southern Europe to Sweden.
PERSUADER add bonus to "The Hunter" To some of you this band might only be known as the winner of the 2003 Young Metal Gods Award or two of the boys in SAVAGE CIRCUS. But five years ago they recorded their stunning debut "The Hunter" which made those who listened wanna sign the band immediately. Of all possible partners a very small label ended up being the lucky one, released the debut in France with a few copies – and dissolved in bancrupcy. Now you can finally see the light of this rough diamond. To make it even more valuable without polishing away the energy, we added the songs "Escape" and "Cursed" from the even earlier "Visions and dreams" demo as a bonus.
CELESTY - our Finnish youngsters got signed We are proud to announce the addition of CELESTY to our fine artist selection. Those young Finnish guys already released two albums and are big in Japan, so be prepared for epic and melodic progressive metal. But don't underrate the Nothern heritage of CELESTY - there is a lot of darkness from long winter nights in the songs also.
MYSTIC CIRLE viva la Mexico! The shows with MARDUK were a dark blast across Europe. Now MYSTIC CIRCLE already check out how corpsepaint goes with sombreros and prepare for their tour to Mexico.
A TRAITOR LIKE JUDAS dig the coal A TRAITOR LIKE JUDAS are done recording "Nightmare Inc." at Kohle in Kohlekeller studios/Darmstadt. Early on wednesday morning shouter BjЖrn added his final vocals to the tracks - after three days of heavy screaming in a row. We expect it to be their heaviest and most varied record which will overflow the already abating metalcore wave.
Eagle Rock Entertainment has set a November 1 release date for the new DVD from TESTAMENT, entitled "Live In London". "Live In London" is the documentation of a dream that long-time die-hard TESTAMENT fans have been waiting for: the reuniting of the band’s "classic" lineup. Featuring vocalist Chuck Billy, guitar virtuosos Eric Peterson and Alex Skolnick, bassist Greg Christian, and original drummer Louie Clemente (along with TESTAMENT and WHITE ZOMBIE alumnus John Tempesta as a second drummer), the band rips through classic TESTAMENT fan favorites in this show, shot in London earlier in 2005.
"Live In London" DVD track listing:
1. The Preacher 2. The New Order 3. The Haunting 4. Electric Crown 5. Sins Of Omission 6. Souls Of Black 7. Into The Pit 8. Trial By Fire 9. Practice What You Preach 10. Let Go Of My World 11. The Legacy 12. Over The Wall 13. Raging Waters 14. Disciples Of The Watch
although time keeps on ticking quickly, things go very well in the Guardian camp. To be more precise: we are still on schedule and even though everyone is totally busy and concentrated the atmosphere is very lifely and still relaxed to a certain extend:-) The material for the single will be accomplished at the end of November. To make that happen this particular stuff will get most of our attention for the next 4 weeks. Everyone is already involved in the recording process and we are really excited about the album ´s progression. It is too early to say when we will be finished exactly, but I would say a worldwide release in the first half of 2006 is very realistic. Things look (sound - as well) very promising. At the moment we are also getting deeper into details such as album title, cover, etc... So, we are about to scratch the most important phase of the recording session and we do not intend to leave you out ... Please, let us work on it a little longer, so we can fix things technically. You will be provided with footage, that is for sure.
British metal legends IRON MAIDEN are so keen to get into the next Guinness World Records book, they are considering playing a gig onboard a plane. They would love to break the record for the highest live performance and insist they could easily achieve the feat. Singer BRUCE DICKINSON reveals, "Some day I'd even like to do a gig on board a plane, literally join the eight-mile high club. It's possible, and it would be great to get into the Guinness Book Of Records."
New album of BOLT THROWER "Those Once Loyal" will be released on 14th of November via Metal Blade. Track-list:
1. At First Light 2. Entrenched 3. The Killchain 4. Granite Wall 5. Those Once Loyal 6. Anti-Tank (Dead Armour) 7. Last Stand of Humanity 8. Salvo 9. When Cannons Fade
FALKENBACH's "Heralding the Fireblade" is in its post production stages and will be released on 25 Nov. as a limited digipack edition including bonus track, and as a regular jewel case version.
The Eternal have finally released their album 'The Sleep of Reason' Featuring 11 new tracks, the album both defines and extends The Eternal's sound.
Tracklisting: 01 : Awaken, Arise 02 : Everlasting 03 : To Down 04 : A Soul Undone 05 : Hollow Inside 06 : In My Skin 07 : A Dream's End 08 : Beneath The Soil 09 : Sleep of Reason 10 : The Dying Light 11 : Weight of Empathy
Running Time : 58: 24 The album is available from various distros including Firebox Records and at some internet shops. There is also a 30 minute documentary covering the whole recording process, from drums to vocals, available on the bands website.
Consensus have finished recording their new EP, entitled 'Libertatis Clamor', it will be released on the 21st October 2005. The EP contains "over thirty minutes of dark, doom-ridden music shared between four songs." The track listing is as follows: I. The First Lament II. Feel Me, Free Me III. Wonder IV. Twilight of Consent A high quality mp3 of one the songs, "Wonder", is also available for download from the website.
"It's ready at last, the second CANDLEMASS DVD!! Filmed at Stockholm Klubben nov 2003, it contains the entire CANDLEMASS show from the legendary evening with FORCE OF EVIL and TROUBLE, sharing the same stage with the kings of doom. The sound and editing is awesome and CANDLEMASS bombs out classics as “Well of souls” and “Gallows end”, in front of an enthusiastic crowd, together with more rare gems as “A cry from the crypt” and “Black Stone Weilder”. Setlist: “Demons Gate”, “Dark Reflections”, “Well of Souls”, “Into the Unfathomed Tower”, “Ancient Dreams”, “The Bells of Acheron”, “Witches”, “Mirror Mirror”, “A Cry From the Crypt”, “Mourners Lament”, “Black Stone Weilder”, “Solitude”, “Gallows End”. Bonus material: A one hour interview with the band, and nearly an hour worth of rare live cuts 1987 – 1993. The 'Curse of Candlemass' DVD will be out on Escapi Music Entertainment sept 26"
On the 23rd September 2005, as a result of a fire at the Russian death metal band GRENOUER make shift rehearsal studio, the band lost all their instruments and equipment. As the band was simply subletting this space in the Vereteno factory in St. Petersburg they cannot expect any financial compensation from the factory owners, let alone an apology. The fire started as a consequence of an unqualified welder (twat!!!) who was carrying some work in the nearby area. At the moment the factory management is doing everything possible to cover these facts up and create a new version of events in order to avoid hefty penalties.
You can see all the pictures taken at the scene after the fire on the official GRENOUER forum at:
' ' '
All of the bands equipment either perished in the fire or became totally unusable due water damage from the firemen's attempts to put the fire out. This unfortunate event took place right at the peak of GRENOUER's preparation for the recording of their fifth full length album when the dates for the recording sessions had already been booked at the ASTIA studio in Finland.
IND (Vocals): "This situation is quite dramatic because the fire has been a set back to many of our plans, however we're not going to give up! On the contrary, we must get through this and at the very least partially realise our plans. Of course we're gonna start by getting new instruments, amps and all other necessary devices and if someone feels like giving us a helping hand they can always get in touch with us by email (' ), however, our enemies will now have reason to celebrate. As a result of this incident, I believe that the subject of fire and destruction will now find a place in our writing. Anyway, it's too early to write GRENOUER off yet!!!"
SAMAEL's Vorph and Xy are currently reworking their "Era One" project (originally completed and delivered to Century Media Records in September 2002) for a January 2006 release through Century Media. The Swiss band's former label is also planning to reissue the group's "Ceremony of Opposites" (1994) and "Worship Him" (1991) albums this fall as a special "deluxe edition."
As previously reported, SAMAEL will spend the next few months writing material for the follow-up to last year's "Reign of Light" album. The group's as-yet-untitled new CD is not expected to surface until late 2006 at the earliest.
The leader of UNTIL DEATH OVERTAKES ME posted the following message on the official web-page of the band: "I have put 4 extracts from the upcoming 'Symphony III - monolith' album online at soundclick. More info on a release date and on which label it might be available will be posted soon. Also recently finished, is FORBIDDEN FIELDS new album 'Field II - Of Trees...'. Two MP3 extracts of this 73-minute album can be found at soundclick as well. The album itself should be released on NULLL within the next few weeks."
Famous Ukrainian doomers AUTUMNIA posted such message on their official web-page: "We are proud to announce the name of our forthcoming album, so the name is ‘By the Candles Obsequial’, and we also want to present the track list of this album: 1. Increasing the Grief Terrestrial 2. With Wailing and Lament 3. Bitterness of Loss 4. ...And the Life Dies Away ... 5. In Loneliness of Two Souls We’ve recorded all musical parts at A.N.G. Studio. And the material waits for mixing and mastering, it will be performed also at A.N.G. Studio. Besides constant bembers of Alexander Glavniy’s(guitars, keyboards, samples) and Vladislav Shahin’s(vocals), several new musicians were invited to perform in new album. So, they are Anna Dobridneva (vocals), you could hear her voise on MOURNFUL GUST’s album "She's My Grief" and Yuriy Baygush (piano and synthesizer effects)"
Count Raven are re-releasing 'Storm Warning'(1990), 'Destruction of the Void'(1992), 'High on Infinity'(1994) and 'Messiah of Confusion'(1996) on Cyclone Empire. The albums were originally released by Hellhound Records and have since then become sought after rarities. 'Storm Warning' and 'Destruction of the Void' will be released on October 14th and 'High on Infinty' and 'Messiah of Confusion' will be out November 11th. All four albums will contain bonus material. Count Raven are also working on a new album, to be released some time 2006.
Norwegian black metallers CREST OF DARKNESS have posted the following update on their official web site:
"Some of you might now that Ingar [Amlien, vocals/bass] has joined his old bandmates from CONCEPTION to play a few reunion concerts this autumn. Because of this, and the fact that it has been pretty silent around CREST OF DARKNESS the latest months, some people are wondering what's happening with CREST OF DARKNESS now? To make it clear: Ingar is giving his 'dark child' CREST OF DARKNESS the highest priority also in the future!!! He has, of course, laid quite a lot of work into CONCEPTION when they have prepared themself to their 'comeback,' but all through the summer CREST OF DARKNESS has worked with new material to their forthcomming album. CREST OF DARKNESS has also played a few selected conserts, and they are also going to make the live DVD, which has been planned for a while."
As previously reported, CREST OF DARKNESS have set "Give Us the Power to Do Your Evil" as the title of their fifth full-length album, tentatively due next year.
After releasing the first EP, Stormbringer, through Pale Moon Records, TODESBONDEN is getting ready to release the first full length, which will be recorded between the end of this year and the beginning of 2006. The choosen title is Ghost of a Crescent Moon, and it will be produced by Markus Stock (Empyrium, Noekk, The Vision Bleak) and released through the german label Prophecy Productions.
TODESBONDEN is an atmospheric doom band which features the singer Laurie Ann Haus (Autumn Tears, Rain Fell Within, Ephemeral Sun, Nest, Garden of Shadows) and mixes the melancholy of doom metal with elements of classic, celtic and renaissence music.
Samples taken from the EP Stormbringer, are available at www.todesbonden.com
Veteran German thrashers DESTRUCTION have uploaded their video for the track "The Alliance of Hellhoundz" at their official web site. Check it out at Destruction.de.
"The Alliance of Hellhoundz" comes off the group's latest CD, "Inventor of Evil", available now in Europe on AFM Records. The CD will receive a North American release on October 25 via Candlelight Records.
DESTRUCTION tapped nine different world-renowned metal singers from all different heavy metal styles to make a guest appearance in their track "The Alliance of Hellhoundz". The guest musicians are as follows:
Biff Byford (SAXON) Doro Pesch Shagrath (DIMMU BORGIR) Björn "Speed" Strid (SOILWORK) Paul Di'Anno (ex-IRON MAIDEN, KILLERS) Messiah Marcolin (CANDLEMASS) Mark Osegueda (DEATH ANGEL) Peter "Peavy" Wagner (RAGE) Peter Tägtgren (HYPOCRISY, PAIN)
Commented DESTRUCTION bassist/vocalist Marcel "Schmier" Schirmer, "The all-star song 'The Alliance of Hellhoundz' will make metal history: from Paul Di'Anno to Messiah, we'll have the best metal singers in ONE fuckin' song!"
DESTRUCTION recorded "Inventor of Evil" with producer Peter Tätgtren (HYPOCRISY, PAIN), V.O. Pulver (GURD) and their live engineer Franky Winkelmann at studios in Germany and Switzerland. The mix was done by Tätgtren at the Abyss Studios in Sweden.
Guitarist/vocalist Ares of Norwegian "dark metallers" AETERNUS has posted the following message on the group's official web site:
"AETERNUS are now mixing [the new album] “HeXaeon”. We'll be working every night and so far the drums are more or less done. Things are going well and as for now, we see or have no obstacles delaying the release."
The follow-up to 2003's "A Darker Monument", "Hexaeon" was recorded at Grieghallen Studios in Norway and was once produced by Eirik "Pytten" Hundvin, who has previously worked with ENSLAVED and MÖRK GRYNING, among others. A demo version of the new track "What I Crave" can be downloaded at this location.
AETERNUS recently acquired a new session guitarist by the name of Dreggen.
Norwegian black metallers SATYRICON have posted the following message on their official web site:
"Sorry for not keeping touch lately, but we've been busy working! We are in middle of pre-production for our new album and we will start recording October 17th in Puk Studio in Denmark where we did most of 'Volcano'. We aim to finish the album in January followed by a late spring release. This means we should be ready to do a big festival run throughout the summer and hit the clubs in the fall. Things change and they can change fast too in this industry, but this is what we plan to do as it looks now. We'll keep you posted about this and other projects we are working on too, throughout the fall."
Blood Legacy will be recording new material later this year for their final release entitled 'Solitude And Damnation' before going to permanent hiatus. The bands main songwriter and founder Jason McMurtrey had this to say -
"Currently we are putting a lot of time into the efforts of our new band Divine Nightmare, I feel a little more comfortable with where I’m at with this band at this time in my life and the efforts have been going great. We may return down the road to Blood Legacy but we aren’t really sure when. We cannot give thanks enough to all of our great fans over the last ten years. We love you all so much. Thank you for so much great doomed commitment! Cheers!!"
Jason will also be concentrating efforts towards a new Long Since Dark album with partner Mark Clausen so doom fans can be on the lookout for that as well.
STRATOVARIUS' latest, self-titled effort has entered the national album charts in the following countries:
#4: Finland #37: Sweden #88: France #94: Switzerland
"Stratovarius" was released in the U.S. on September 13 via Sanctuary. A video for the album's first single, "Maniac Dance", was shot on April 15 in Helsinki by director and guitarist Timo Tolkki's old schoolmate Antti Jokinen (BEYONCÉ, WYCLEF JEAN, KORN, MISSY ELLIOT, NIGHTWISH, SHANIA TWAIN, CELINE DION).
OPETH's new album, "Ghost Reveries", has entered the Swedish national chart at position No. 9 (the group's previous midweek chart position — after two days of sales — was No. 4). The group's updated "Ghost Reveries" first-week chart positions around the world are now as follows:
#9: Sweden #11: Finland #21: Norway #35: Australia #38: Netherlands #39: Germany #57: Canada #62: United Kingdom #64: USA #72: France #84: Denmark
As previously reported, OPETH's video for the track "The Grand Conjuration", featuring a special guest appearance by STRAPPING YOUNG LAD drummer Gene Hoglan, has been posted online at ' .
EDGUY's new EP, "Superheroes", has entered the German Media Control single chart at position No. 25. This marks the third highest single chart entry for record label Nuclear Blast after NIGHTWISH and MANOWAR. In Switzerland, the EP debuted at No. 52 on the official chart.
Commented EDGUY frontman Tobias Sammet: "I can't tell you how happy I am. We are an out-of-vogue band for the run-of-the-mill kids today, we get bashed all the time for doing things our way — and no way but OUR way — and yet: You help us crushing all the obstacles that stand in our way to prevent us from entertaining you and having great fun ourselves. Sometimes it's hard to be a different band. This band is a freak that goes against the flow and is prepared and determined to take a lot of stick. But it's worth it, and it feels even greater to know that there are thousands of like minds, freaks outside, who know exactly what it's like and who are with us! No major TV support, no major radio support and still a hit single! YOU ROCK!!! THANK YOU!!! Now let's go out and have a ball..."
The "Superheroes" EP features a special guest appearance by former HELLOWEEN frontman Michael Kiske.
Norway's THEATRE OF TRAGEDY have inked a deal with Germany's AFM Records. Last Friday, the band and label met in Hamburg to discuss their future. The gothic metal act are currently working on their new album and have most of the material already completed. Musically, the band are promising a return to their early sound.
"If you want, you can consider this album as a kind of follow-up to [1998's] 'Aegis'," drummer Hein Frode Hansen said of the new album's musical direction. "For us this was a very natural way right now."
THEATRE OF TRAGEDY's as-yet-untitled new album will be the group's first to feature singer Nell (THE CREST), who replaced Liv Kristine Espenaes Krull (currently in LEAVES' EYES) in early 2004. A March 24, 2006 release is expected. Download audio samples of two demo songs recorded last year: "Fade" (' ), "Seven" (' ).
Vocalist Stefan Hertrich (DARKSEED, BETRAY MY SECRETS, SHIVA IN EXILE) has launched a new project dubbed SPI-RITUAL. The group will record its debut mini-CD in late September. Entitled "Pulse", the disc will include five tracks (with a total running time of approximately28 minutes) and will feature several guest musicians, including Yana Veva of THEODOR BASTARD, Gaby Koss (ex-HAGGARD), Dr. Christian Raetsch (Germany's leading ethnopharmacology book author) and Kajuyali Tsamani (director of the Foundation of Shamanic Investigations in Columbia).
After his award-winning soundtrack/world album, "Ethnic", (SHIVA IN EXILE, 2004), Hertrich is attempting once again to combine ethnic elements with metal like in his project BETRAY MY SECRETS (1999). "Pulse" will be released by Hertrich's new label, Listen&Think Publishing, and will also be licensed to Russia, where it will be made available in a special edition, including a multimedia section with a dark ethnic background bonus track and a possible video clip (not 100 percent confirmed).
"This CD won?t be a religious or ideologic guide for metal fans and it doesn?t represent any religions or ideologies in any way," Hertrich told Russian Darkside. "It might be an offer for metal fans who are interested in different ways of understanding the aesthetics of arts from distant cultures, embedded in our familiar metal construct. I think this album could provoke even more, maybe a sensibility for things that are not taught in school or TV, but this is completely up to the listener. The main goal of this CD simply is to be enjoyed — with the option to provoke more than that."
The German release is scheduled for November. An official Russian release date has not yet been announced.
9/11, the Judgement Day and the End Of Ages, a new release from Griffin Music sets the world aflame. The CD re-release of ODOR MORTIS "Spasi i Otsosi" will feature completely new artwork and unleash the fury of pure satanic black metal.
Tracklist:
1. World's Agony 2. Bomb The Herd! 3. Under The Legions Ram 4. Blood Path 5. Onto The Knives! 6. Hatred 7. You - Victim 8. Ave, The Satan's Name!
German thrashers KREATOR will re-release their latest album, "Enemy of God", in early 2006 in the DVD-Audio format, featuring very high quality, Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, plus additional video material (including animation) and footage of KREATOR appearing on various TV shows.
Commented KREATOR mainman Mille Petrozza: "'Enemy of God' is our best-produced album thus far. But it will sound even more brutal in this special Dolby Digital edition."
In addition to the extra footage mentioned above, the DVD-Audio edition of "Enemy of God" will include a fan-created music video for the song "Dying Race Apocalypse". Fans are encouraged to film and create their own clip and send it to this address:
SPV GmbH Mark Kewitsch Brüsseler Str. 14 30539 Hannover Germany
The best entry will become part of the official DVD-Audio edition of "Enemy of God" and the winner will receive 1000 euros. Other prizes include 33 KREATOR fan packages. The deadline for registration is mid-October. All video clips should be completed and submitted by mid-November.
Czech Republic-based death metallers PANDEMIA have uploaded their video for the track "Riven" at ' .
"Riven" is the title track of PANDEMIA's third album, available in the U.S. and Europe via Metal Age Productions. The band recently returned form an extensive six-week tour of South America, where they played 23 shows in six countries in support of "Riven".
Norway's SOLEFALD have finished recording the first part of their new saga, which is based on Viking mythology and history, entitled "Red for Fire, Black for Death".
"Red for Fire: An Icelandic Odyssey Part 1" will be released through Season of Mist, worldwide before the end of 2005 and will quickly be followed by "Black for Death: An Icelandic Odyssey Part 2" in early spring 2006.
"Part 1" features guest appearances by electronica singer Aggie Frost Peterson on the songs "Sun I Call" and "White Frost Queen", and by Jörmundur Ingi, the ancient supreme Godi of Iceland (an Ásatrú priest), who reads the poem "Lokasenna" (an argument between gods) on the last track of the album. The previously announced guest appearance by Garm of ULVER will be featured on "Black for Death".
SOLEFALD's new effort, a "true Viking metal album," according to its authors, is being produced by Borge Finnstad (MAYHEM, ARCTURUS, etc.).
As SOLEFALD previously stated, "We were experimental when everybody was trying to be as basic as possible. Now that we feel we've said what we had to say in this field, and now that everybody is experimenting one way or another, this is our attempt at being true."
Italian experimentalists EPHEL DUATH have recently completed work on the highly anticipated follow up to "The Painter's Palette" at Studio 73 in Ravenna, Italy.
Guitarist DAVIDE TISO has been in touch to let you know more about "Pain Necessary To Know"
"I'm so happy to announce you that our new album "Pain Necessary To Know" is ready. I have the master in my hand and the artwork on my PC!
"After two years to compose and five months to record, mix and master, you can easily understand my so excite state of mind
"The sound is fat and circular but at the same time so cutting. It's brilliant but dirty. There's desert and smelling water. Probably there's Zappa too!
"We've also finalized the artwork. Dirty water with medusas in the background. Medusas are perfect to symbolise the title of the album. You can't say you know a medusa if you have not felt around your body a sign of its touch. You can't say you have the slightest idea of what is the better life for you if you don't have around your thoughts the signs of pain. In my opinion pain is necessary to know. Only through a lot of different pains I've come to understand what is better for me...To play music!
"We've also changed some of the running order.
"Pain Necessary To Know"
1. New Disorder 2. Vector, third movement 3. Pleonasm 4. Few stars, no refrain and a cigarette (instrumental) 5. Crystalline Whirl 6. I killed Rebecca 7. Vector 8. Vector, second movement (instrumental) 9. Imploding
"Buy your copy and control yourself. Later my friends, in the next days we'll try to choose from the album a sort of single to offer you as an MP3.
Davide Tiso
"Pain Necessary To Know" is released on Elitist / Earache on October 17th
LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE are currently writing material for their seventh album, which they hope to begin recording in October for an early 2006 release via Napalm Records. A single will precede the album in January.
As previously reported, LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE recently parted ways with rhythm guitarist Christian Freitsmiedl after the completion of their German tour with THE 69 EYES. Replacing Christian in the band's lineup is Tony Berger. The band's latest CD, "Ave End", was released in June 2004.
WITHIN Y, the Swedish melodic death metal band featuring former GARDENIAN drummer Thim Blom, will enter GBG Sound studio late next week to begin recording their as-yet-untitled sophomore album. "We will start with the drums, as usual, and hopefully we can give you a hint on how Thim's doing in a little video clip in a week or two!" the band write on their web site.
WITHIN Y recently announced the addition of guitarist Niknam Moslehi to the group's ranks. Moslehi joins the band as the replacement for Niklas Almen, who left the group late last year.
Finnish melodic death metallers AMORAL have uploaded two sound samples from their upcoming sophomore album, "Decrowning" as the title of their sophomore album, due on November 21 via Spikefarm Records (a division of Spinefarm). The CD was mastered on August 4 at Finnvox studios by Mika Jussila.
"Decrowning" (view cover ' ) track listing:
01. Showdown (' clip) 02. Lacrimal Gland 03. Decrowning (' clip) 04. Tiebreaker 05. Drug of Choice 06. Denial 101 07. Control Cancer 08. Raptus 09. Warp 10. Bleeder
The band also recorded a cover of MÖTLEY CRÜE's "Wild Side" for future use.
Drummer Diego "Grom" Meraviglia (HORTUS ANIMAE, ex-DOOMSWORD) has officially quit ANCIENT. As of today, Meraviglia is no longer part of the cult extreme metal band's lineup. "I decided to end my official envolvement with ANCIENT for a number of reasons," Diego said in a statement. "It has been a nice and rewarding five years, full of great experiences and I wish to thank all the other guys in the band and all the great fans, but I have reached a point in my career where I simply feel I need to move on. There were profound professional differences as well between me and the rest of the band and that convinced me it was time to quit."
Grom's collaboration with ANCIENT may continue, both live and in studio, but only on a "session" basis. Meraviglia will be concentrating on his "session drummer" career as well as his numerous other projects, including extreme-metal-gothic-prog band HORTUS ANIMAE. Grom is also evaluating several offers for an eventual new "main band."
Finnish melodic metallers REQUIEM have completed work on their third album, "Requiem Forever", for an October 24 release via Scarlet Records. The CD was mastered at Chartmakers studios in Helsinki, Finland, by Svante Forsbäck (STRATOVARIUS, RAMMSTEIN) and will feature artwork by Carlos Del Olmo (SOILWORK, TERROR 2000, AGENT STEEL, THE DEFACED).
"Requiem Forever" track listing:
01. Possessed by Power 02. Hold On 03. Shadowhunt 04. Violate 05. Painting the Wind 06. Invincible Enemy 07. Vindictive Heart 08. The Tower 09. Nightfall – Omnicida 10. Sleepless Nights 11. Gods of War 12. Light No More (demo) (Japanese bonus track)
Former IRON MAIDEN/WOLFSBANE frontman Blaze Bayley spoke to Blazefans.com prior to the band's show at Belgium's Izzefest festival on September 3 about BLAZE's forthcoming album and DVD. "The new album is planned for May 2006 along with the DVD coming a bit later featuring three exclusive songs and documenting the work on the new album," he said. "The new album will be very different from 'Blood & Belief'. 'Blood & Belief' is my favorite album because the vocals are perfect and sound like on a live album. I would like to keep it up this way for the new album. We did a LONG preparation for 'Blood & Belief' and spent a very SHORT time in the studio. Studios are so boring and uninspiring. They are not creative enough for a metal band, they are only for pop bands and stuff like that who like to spend most time in studios."
BLAZE's current lineup consists of the following:
Blaze Bayley – Vocals Oliver Palotai – Guitar Luca Priciotta – Guitar Christian Ammann – Bass Daniel Schild - Drums
New album of ARCONA "Vo Slavu Velikim!" is recorded. Album includes 14 tracks with total playing time appr. 1 hour. Musicians have been working on album for 2 months. It will be released in October through Sound Age label.
Musicians, who took part in album recordings: Masha 'Scream' - voice, choruses, screaming, keyboards, tambourine, vargan, acoustic guitar (4) Sergei 'Lazar' (Rossomahaar) - guitar, solo guitar, acoustic guitar, 12-strings acoustic guitar, choruses, shoutings, growling Ruslan 'Kniaz' (Rossomahaar) - bass Vlad 'Artist' (Rossomahaar) - drums, percussions Vladimir Cherepovskiy (Mervent) - gaita, din whistle, low din whistle, sopilka, vargan (11, 6), drymba, prosvirelka, okarina, dvodentsivka, jolomiya Iliya 'Wolfenhirt' (Svarga) - voic, choruses, shoutings Igor 'Hurry' (Svarga) - accordeon Alexei 'Nightbird' (Alkonost) - screaming Andrei Karasev - violin
Track list: ARCONA - "Vo Slavu Velikim!" 1. Intro (Kolomyyka) 2. Skvoz' Tuman Vekov 3. Rus' Iznachalnaya 4. Vo Slavu Velikim! 5. Po Syroy Zemple 6. Tuman Yarom 7. Zov Bitvy 8. Vedy Proshlogo 9. Velykden' 10. Gnev Vremen 11. Na Svarogovoy Doroge 12. Vyydy, vyydy, Ivanku... 13. Vosstaniye Roda 14. Sila Slavnykh
CATHEDRAL, the immortal legends of extreme doom metal from Britain, lead by vocalist and mastermind Lee Dorrian, are releasing a new album through Nuclear Blast, entitled "The Garden of Unearthly Delights", which is scheduled on the 26th of September. The song "Upon Azrael's Wings" from the upcoming album is available ' (Real media format).
The tracklisting of the new album:
01. Dearth AD 2005 02. Tree of Life & Death 03. North Berwick Witch Trails 04. Upon Azrael's Wings 05. Corpsecycle 06. Fields Of Zagara 07. Oro,The Manslayer 08. Beneath a Funeral Sun 09. The Garden 10. Proga - Europa (hidden track)
A new song entitled "Scrutinized" has been posted at Nuclear Blast's page from the swedish death metallers' HYPOCRISY upcoming album "Virus", scheduled on the 20th of September. The track can be downloaded ' (Real media format).
"Virus" track listing:
01. Intro (not named yet) 02. Warpath 03. Scrutinized 04. Fearless 05. Craving for Another Killing 06. Let the Knife Do the Talking 07. A Thousand Lies 08. Incised Before I've Ceased 09. Blooddrenched 10. Compulsive Psychosis 11. Living to Die
With a week of delay, we're really sorry to deliver this sad news: Voivod's guitarist Denis "Piggy" D'Amour died on the night of the 26th of august from advanced colon cancer.
Finnish thrashers BLOODRIDE give opportunity to download their latest mcd "Bloodridden Disease" for free from their homepages because the edition is sold out now. Go and get some ' .
Moscow (Russia) based thrash metal band ZATMENIE have recently stated that Edgar, a famous violin player, will be guesting on the band’s upcoming album. Edgar has just finished recording solo for a track “Za Toboy” (Russian for “Reaching For You”) and accepted his participation in album’s release party, tentatively due later 2005 or early 2006.
Pavel Mikheev (guitar/vocals): «We and Edgar have a very similar point of view regarding things all around. We like to do something different and unusual. He’s a perfectly skilled musician and he has precise touch on our music. Trying to comprise the Oriental vibe with our song, he has succeeded in everything. Result is absolutely great!..»
At the moment ZATMENIE are finishing recording their brand new album. Mixing will follow soon.
Russian metallers HOSTILE BREED have finished the recordings of their first Russian-language album "Uzory Shramov - Zakony Voiny". The recordings were made on Moscow Sound studio with sound enginere Sergei "Lazar". Mastering will be handled by DD.Ehrlich (SLIPKNOT, AMERICAN HEAD CHARGE, CREMATORIUM...)
The release of CD is expected in autumn 2005 through independent label Kapkan Rec..
DARZAMAT will visit the East Europe area again. After successful tour through Russia, the band is going to play for Ukrainian fans. Within the confines of "Semidevilish"promotion, DARZAMAT will turn up in Kiev, Rovno and Luts'k. The negotiations about Uzghorod are in progress.
"Semidevilish" was released in East Europe in May this year, thanks to CD-Maximum.
The band will play also on Fit of Rage Festival in Czech Republic on 20th August and on S-Hammer Metal Fest in Italy on 3rd September. There will play also bands like: ENTOMBED (Sweden), VOMITORY (Sweden), THE DEFACED (Sweden), MACABRE (USA) and INHUMATE (France).
ANGTORIA, the new Swedish/British orchestral/metal band formed by female singer Sarah Jezebel Deva (CRADLE OF FILTH, THERION, MORTIIS), Chris Rehn (ABYSSOS) and Tommy Rehn (MOAHNI MOAHNA), have signed a three-month management deal with Fortress Music and Artist Development. To further enhance this development, a completely new cover design for the demo has been made, along with new wallpaper and banner design.
ANGTORIA are currently in the studio making a pre-production recording of the rest of the songs that will be included on the group's upcoming debut album. A full-length MP3 of the ANGTORIA demo track "Six Feet Under's Not Deep Enough" has been made available for download at '
ANGTORIA last summer completed a five-song "industry-only" demo at Virtual Symphony Studios in Sundsvall, Sweden and are currently seeking a record deal.
We uploaded the picture gallery from the fest Metal Heads' Mission. You can find it at ' . Extended report/review and some other great news, connected with the fest, to be soon.
WOLVERINE have announced a low key Swedish show where they will be airing new tracks from the band's recently completed and tentatively titled new album 'STILL'.
August 20th - SODERHAMN (SWE) - Busstorget
The band will also appear once again at Progpower Europe 2005
October 2nd - BAARLO (NL) - Sjiwa (www.progpower.com)
The band recently posted this message on their website:
"WOLVERINE have just finished recording at Spacelab Studio in Germany. The album was produced by Oliver Philips, Christian "Moschus" Moos and Wolverine. It will be mixed at the end of August and mastered soon after that. Hopefully we'll have it out on Elitist / Earache Records in October/November sometime".
"Before we started the recordings we announced a running order of the songs that has now been updated. This is because we wrote an acoustic song while we were in the studio. The track is called "Hiding". The entire band feels that 'STILL' is an amazing album. We can only hope that you'll feel the same way. We do of course hope to be able to go out and promote it live as much as possible. More news on this later".
'STILL' TRACKLIST:
1. A house of plague 2. Bleeding 3. Taste of sand 4. Nothing more 5. Sleepy town 6. Liar on the mount 7. Hiding 8. This cold heart of mine 9. And she slowly dies
Long-running German thrashers DESTRUCTION have announced the following worldwide release dates for their new album, "Inventor of Evil":
Europe – August 22 via AFM Records Japan – August 24 via King Records South America – September 30 via Laser North America – October 25 via Candlelight Records
DESTRUCTION recorded "Inventor of Evil" with producer Peter Tätgtren (HYPOCRISY, PAIN), V.O. Pulver (GURD) and their live engineer Franky Winkelmann at studios in Germany and Switzerland. The mix was done by Tätgtren at the Abyss Studios in Sweden.
"Inventor of Evil" (view cover here) track listing:
01. Soul Collector 02. The Defiance Will Remain 03. The Alliance of Helloundz 04. No Man's Land 05. The Calm Before the Storm 06. The Chosen Ones 07. Dealer of Hostility 08. Under Surveillance 09. Seeds of Hate 10. Twist of Fate 11. Killing Machine 12. Memories of Nothingness
Bonus tracks (digipack):
13. We are the Road Crew (MOTÖRHEAD cover) 14. The Alliance of Hellhoundz (Schmier vocals only) video clip + wallpapers
Japanese version bonus tracks:
13. Eternal Ban (re-recording) 14. The Alliance of Hellhoundz (karaoke version)
BLIND GUARDIAN singer Hansi Kürsch has posted the following message on the group's official web site:
"Here is a short update about what is going on at the moment: Frederik [Ehmke, new BLIND GUARDIAN drummer] did some kick-ass drum arrangements for the new songs and now Oliver Holzwarth has started working on the bass arrangements. At the same time André, Marcus and I are fixing final arrangement issues but basically we have finished the biggest part of composing. We are going to start the production for the new album somewhere during the last days of August. As you can imagine everyone is highly motivated, excited and of course ready to go."
BLIND GUARDIAN's "very rough" schedule for the next months:
Late August - End of November: *Recording [and] mixing of the first single *Video shoot
December 2005/January 2006: *Mixing
February/March 2006: *Promotion *Release of the first single
April/May 2006: *Release of the album and warm-up shows
June – August 2006: *Warm-up shows *South America *Japan *Release of the second single
September – October 2006: *Europe
November 2006: *Japan *Australia
December 2006 – February 2007: *USA, Mexico and Canada
8THSIN, the new project led by IT (a.k.a. Tony Särkkä; WAR, ABRUPTUM, OPHTHTALAMIA, VONDUR), have finalized the track listing for their sophomore album, "Angelseed & Demonmilk", tentatively due in October. The follow-up to last year's "Sinners Inc." (Black Lodge Records) will include a special guest vocal appearance on one track by Peter Tägtgren of PAIN/HYPOCRISY.
According to a posting on the group's web site, "this recording enjoys a full five-man line-up, which wasn't the case of the first album, 'Sinners Inc.' and therefore will in both sound and feeling be very different from the first recording. Here we venture deeper into the mysterious and profound mind of IT, a continuing journey through the cycles of life and death, ending up with the second part of 'The Eight Sins'."
"Angelseed & Demonmilk" track listing:
01. A Sleepover at the Feeling of Death 02. Liars 03. Demons 04. Irreligious 05. Nocturnal 06. Templo Mayor 07. Angels 08. Humans without Disguise 09. Black Widow 10. Angelseed & Demonmilk 11. The Eight Sins, Part 2
As previously reported, 8THSIN recently posted an outtake from the "Sinners Inc." recording sessions at their official web site. The track "The 11th Commandment", which was left off the album due to "legal issues," can be downloaded at ' .
8THSIN's debut album, "Sinners Inc.", was recorded and mixed at Sin Studios by Michael Bohlin and was mastered at Polar Studios by Henrik Jonsson. The group's "Sometimes & Othertimes" video (directed by Ira Bohlin), taken from the "Sinners Inc." album, was finished in April.
SKYCLAD guitarist and mastermind Steve Ramsey suffed a serious shoulder injury in a recent accident, causing the postponement of their previously announced European tour from October until February 2006. It is not presently clear if SKYCLAD'S appearances at the Rocktown Festival in Bebra-Breitenbach, Germany, and at the Dominion Festival in Hull, U.K. will be affected by this cancellation.
Danish power/prog metal band ANUBIS GATE will release their second album, "A Perfect Forever", on September 20 via Locomotive Music (one day earlier internationally). The follow-up to 2004's "Purification" was produced by Jacob Hansen (RAUNCHY, INVOCATOR) and will feature cover artwork by Mattias Noren.
"A Perfect Forever" track listing:
01. Sanctified 02. Kingdom Come 03. Future without Past 04. Curfew 05. Children of the Pauper King 06. Approaching Inner Circle 07. The Wanton Blades Of Lust 08. Epitome of Delusion 09. Endless Grief 10. A Perfect Forever
Swedish "gothic metallers" BESEECH have uploaded their animated video for the song "Innerlane" at Beseech.net (available in both Windows Media and Quicktime formats).
"Innerlane" comes off the group's upcoming CD, "Sunless Days", due in Europe on September 5 via Napalm Records (September 27 in the U.S.).
The follow-up to last year's "Drama", "Sunless Days" was recorded at StudioMega in Varberg, Sweden and is set to include a a cover of the DANZIG track "Devil's Plaything" as well as a re-recording of the song "Manmade Dreams" (on the digipack version only) from BESEECH's second album, "Black Emotions".
"Sunless Days" track listing:
01. Innerlane 02. The Outpost 03. A Bittersweet Tragedy 04. Everytime I Die 05. Devil's Plaything (DANZIG cover) 06. Lost 07. Last Obsession 08. Emotional Decay 09. Restless Dreams 10. The Reversed Mind
The digipack version of "Sunless Days" will also include:
Century Media Records has set an October 18 release date for the new album from OLD MAN'S CHILD, entitled "Vermin". The follow-up to 2003's "In Defiance of Existence" was recorded at Studio Fredman in Gothenburg, Sweden and contains eight new songs plus a re-recording of the old track "Born of the Flickering" (which originally appeared on the 1996 album of the same name).
Commented OLD MAN'S CHILD guitarist Galder (also in DIMMU BORGIR): "I have done an 'ill-natured...' method on this album so every instrument is done personally except for the [drumming], which [was handled] by the Danish [drummer] Reno Kiilerich [DIMMU BORGIR, EXMORTEM, VILE], who, by the way, did a killer job behind the drums. So all in all I must say I'm very happy with the album."
Century Media Records has announced the worldwide signing of Belgian death/grinders ABORTED.
"It's been a very hectic, intense and heavy year for ABORTED," says founder and lead vocalist Sven De Caluwe. "Yet a year in which we have done tons of amazing things, went to amazing places and met a lot of cool new people. One of those amazing things is being signed to a label we believe will be able to lift this band to new heights. They believe in us 200 percent and are going to help us take the next step in our careers."
Norwegian symphonic black metal masters DIMMU BORGIR have extended their record deal with longtime label Nuclear Blast Records. The group's next release will be a revamped version of their "Stormblast" CD, which originally appeared in 1996. The CD was re-recorded earlier in the year, augmented with bonus tracks and produced by Peter Tagtgren (HYPOCRISY). A November 7 release is expected.
DIMMU BORGIR are scheduled to begin writing material for their next studio album this fall for a tentative late 2006 release. The CD, which will feature a guest appearance by MAYHEM's Hellhammer on drums, will be "a full story/concept album," according to a posting on the group's web site.
ONE MAN ARMY AND THE UNDEAD QUARTET, the new Swedish band featuring former THE CROWN vocalist Johan Lindstrand, have set "21st Century Killing Machine" as the title of their upcoming debut album, due in early 2006 via Nuclear Blast Records. The band are scheduled to enter Bohus studio on September 10 to begin recording the CD.
"21st Century Killing Machine" projected track listing:
01. Killing Machine 02. Public Enemy No. 1 03. No Apparent Motive 04. Devil on the Red Carpet 05. Behind the Church 06. Hell Is for Heroes 07. The Sweetness of Black 08. When Hatred Comes to Life 09. Bulldozer Frenzy 10. Branded by Iron 11. So Grim So True So Real 12. Mary's Raising the Dead
ONE MAN ARMY AND THE UNDEAD QUARTET is:
Johan Lindstrand (ex-THE CROWN) - Vocals Valle Adzic (IMPIOUS) - Bass Mikael Lagerblad – Lead Guitar Pekka Kiviaho – Rhythm Guitar Marek Dobrowolski (RECLUSION) – Drums
ONE MAN ARMY AND THE UNDEAD QUARTET had previously recorded a promotional CD, entitled "When Hatred Comes To Life", at Deadline studios with engineer Valle Adzic.
MORTIIS releases his first ever DVD entitled 'SOUL IN A HOLE' on September 26th.
'SOUL IN A HOLE' contains a full live set filmed during MORTIIS' mammoth seven-week European tour in support of 'THE GRUDGE' album released last year.
It also includes MORTIIS' unparalleled videography to date with clips shot as far afield as Death Valley, New York and London plus never seen before interview footage including MORTIIS speaking candidly about the recording process, live shows and the reason for the mask!!
Tracklist for MORTIIS is as follows:
MORTIIIS LIVE FROM THE HACKNEY OCEAN, LONDON September 24th 2004
01. Intro 02. Broken Skin 03. Way Too Wicked 04. Marshland 05. The Worst In Me 06. Monolith 07. Gibber 08. Decadent And Desperate 09. Parasite God 10. The Loneliest Thing 11. Asthma 12. The Grudge 13. Smell The Witch 14. Mental Maelstrom 15. Le Petite Cochon Sordide
Music Videos 01. Parasite God 02. Mental Maelstrom 03. The Grudge 04. Decadent And Desperate (Absentia)
Bonus Material MORTIIS interview 'The Grudge' TV advert 'The Grudge' EPK Picture gallery
'SOUL IN A HOLE' is released on September 26th on EARACHE
Danish wrecking crew EXMORTEM will unleash their new expanded line up for a series of dates through August and September including a headling slot on Friday night, August 19th of this years Jalo Metalli Festival in Finland, which will be taking place 19th and 20th of August in Oulo.
The two day festival will also feature ATAKHAMA, BRUSSEL KAUPALLINEN, DEATHBOUND, DEATHCHAIN, DE LIRIUM'S ORDER, EMBRAZE, FOR MY PAIN, LAMBS, LORD BELIAL, MACHINE MEN, MALICIOUS DEATH, NATIONAL NAPALM SYNDICATE, OMNIUM GATHERUM, SICKNOTE, SWALLOW THE SUN and WRATHAGE, with LORD BELIAL handling headlining duties on the Saturday.
German "dark Satanic metal band" MYSTIC CIRCLE have parted ways with drummer Necrodemon. "There is no bad blood betwenn the bandmembers," reads a posting on the group's web site. "Necrodemon left the band for doing his own studio. MYSTIC CIRCLE has already a new drummer that is a full member of the band. Necrodemon will produce the new MYSTIC CIRCLE album. The band will enter the studio for the new album right after the MARDUK tour in the middle of September 'till the end of October 2005."
As previously reported, MYSTIC CIRCLE have set "The Bloody Path of God" as the title of their seventh full-length album, tentatively due in early 2006 via Dockyard 1, the new company formed by Dirk Putzke, Christine Stephan (both ex-Sanctuary/Noise Records) and Piet Sielck (IRON SAVIOR).
Polish death metallers VADER have posted the following message on their official web site:
"The MCD 'The Art of War', containing four brand new tracks plus two intros (both made by Siegmar from VESANIA) and a videoclip, is ready to release. For the first time in the band's history, there's a song entirely written by Mauser! The band recorded also a bonus track for the Asian version of the album, it's called 'Die!' (the song from their very rare, old demo tape, 'Live') and Peter sang it in the original, Polish-language version! Another worth underlining issue is production, this time the band entrusted the entire matter to well-experienced producers — Slawek and Wojtek Wieslawscy known from Hertz Studio, who were charged not only with the engineering, but also with mixes and mastering."
"The Art of War" will be released via Sweden's Regain Records.
Swedish black metallers BEWITCHED have finished laying down drums for their new album, "Spiritual Warfare", tentatively due before the end of the year via Regain Records. "The coming weeks we'll be laying down all guitars and bass for these 10 tracks," the band write on their web site. Songtitles set to appear on the follow-up to 2002's "Rise of the Antichrist" (Osmose Productions) include "Fucked by Fire", "Jehovah Slain", "Let Darkness Come", "Bringers of Death" and "Malevolent Force of Destruction".
BEWITCHED's first release for Regain, the "Atrocities in a Minor" mini-CD, was issued in 2004.
Former DIO/WWIII guitarist Tracy G will be teaming up with YNGWIE MALMSTEEN drummer Patrick Johansson and Italian hard rock singer Chris Heaven for the recording of a song for the upcoming DAVID LEE ROTH tribute CD. It is not presently clear if this is the same ROTH tribute album currently being put together by Versailles Records, "Just Like Paradise: A Millennium Tribute to Diamond David Lee Roth", which is due in the winter of 2005. That CD will feature contributions from current/former members of LILLIAN AXE, AEROSMITH, DOKKEN, RIOT, WATCHTOWER, ENUFF Z'NUFF, AMERICAN DOG, DANGEROUS TOYS, LYNCH MOB and TNT, as well as Richard Kendrick and Corey Craven, and is said to be the "first, only and definitive" tribute to hard rock's seminal frontman, featuring a mix of the best of Roth's solo work and selections from the 1977-1984 VAN HALEN catalog, according to a press release.
Former JUDAS PRIEST and current ICED EARTH/BEYOND FEAR frontman Tim "Ripper" Owens has posted the following message in the "Forum" section of his official web site:
"PRIEST has informed me that they don't think it is a good idea to have BEYOND FEAR on any tours with them and that it would be best for me to drop the tribute/PRIEST factor. I know a lot of fans wanted this and I myself still like to please the fans. But it looks as though you will never see PRIEST and myself on the same tour. Sorry."
Owens is in the process of signing a record deal for his BEYOND FEAR project, which also features guitarists John Comprix (SPAWN, 13 FACES) and Dwane Bihary (MISSING SKIN), bassist Dennis Hayes (WINTERS BANE, SEVEN WITCHES) and drummer Eric Elkins (CRYPTKICKER, ALL YOU FEAR). Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "I Don't Need This", "And You Will Die", "It Is Me", "Telling Lies" and "The Faith".
"The contract is signed on my end, and I'm now waiting to get it back and the OK to start recording," Owens writes. "I have informed [producer] Jim Morris [ICED EARTH, DEATH, DEMONS & WIZARDS] and everybody involved that we will soon get this thing going."
SAVAGE CIRCUS: Single for free We want your best - and we give you the best, because you can start to download the first single of SAVAGE CIRCUS beginning with the 10th of August on a href=httpwww.savage-circus.comwww.savage-circus.coma. The members of the band will be at the Wacken:Open:Air to present the whole album. More details about it will be revealed on the ' of SAVAGE CIRCUS soon.
DYECREST: It's their world Everything is set: DYECREST will be releasing their brand new record "This Is My World" on the 29th of August. You can get the first glimpse from the 1st of august on at their Dockyard 1 ' .
PERSUADER: "The Hunter" again Somehow it's legendary, the debut of our Swedish lads PERSUADER. Soon "The Hunter" is gonna be re-released, so that you can get a taste of it as well if you missed it out years ago. PERSUADER spiced it up with several bonus tracks so be sure to get your copy on the 29th of august. The songwriting for the next album is almost done, and PERSUADER will soon start to record.
We're still proud of the first ever release we did on DOCKYARD 1. It's "The Vermin Breed" by our Belgian metal heads AFTER ALL. They celebrated the record release with a couple of concerts in support of Agent Steel and Metal Church. Look at the pictures on their home page http://www.afterall.be/. Seems like they enjoy it more and more, see the list of new upcoming shows...
Look at that long list of tourdates. Yes it's true: MYSTIC CIRCLE will support re-formed Swedish black metal outfit MARDUK. On their whole tour. So go out and support them if your heart is black!
Belgian Hardcore all-stars ANGEL CREW are done recording their new album. The title will be "One Life, One Sentence". Here's the track list of the freshly banned eleven songs: 1. Spit it out 2. Cross The Line 3. Chapter Of Violence 4. Carry On The war 5. Break Through 6. Life Sentence 7. Dead End Sin 8. Bring Down The World 9. Shut Them Down 10. Another King Down 11. Life Of An Angel
A TRAITOR LIKE JUDAS are heading from Braunschweig/Germany to add their imprint on the world map of metallic hardcore. They are almost done writing their new album which will be titled "Nightmare Inc.". They describe their songs as a mix of Lamb of God and God Forbid. Studio time is scheduled for late August, the new album can be expected for the end of the year. _____
05/06.08. Augustibuller Festival - Lindesberg /Sweden 08.10. Burn The Stage Festival - Oberentfelden /Switzerland 20.10. Stengade 30 - Copenhagen /Denmark 21.10. The Riot - Lichtenstein /Germany 22.10. Kommarzbank Hammerstadt Germany tba
DEATH BEFORE DISCO
Festivals 16.07. - ROCK HERK Festival (w/ Lost in Rhone) - Herk-de-Stad/Belgium 16.07. - DUYNEROCK Festival (w/ Severance, Morda, ...) - Bredene/Belgium 04.08. - Magnet Club - Berlin /Germany 05.08 - Krach am Bach - Beelen /Germany 06.08. - Midsummer Open Air Fest - Halver /Germany
MYSTIC CIRCLE
on tour with Marduk 24.08. UK SOUTHPORT, CLUB HAVANA 25.08. UK NEWCASTLE, ARCHER 26.08. IRL DUBLIN, WHELANS 27.08. UK BRADFORD, RIO 28.08. UK LONDON, UNDERWORLD 29.08. BL HEKELGEM, 162 - NEW 30.08. FR PARIS, LA LOCOMOTIVE 31.08. NL UTRECHT, DE HELLING 01.09. FR CHAULNES, SOCIOCULTUREL 02.09. FR ELOYES, CULTUREL CENTRE 03.09. FR LYON, TRANSBORDEUR 04.09. FR MARSEILLE, MIRABEAU 06.09. SP IRUN, TUNK 07.09. SP VIGO, LA IGUANA 08.09. POR COLINAS, CLUB BRANCA 09.09. SP MADRID, RITMO & COMPAS 10.09. SP ALICANTE, STEREO CLUB 11.09. SP BARCELONA, MEPHISTO 13.09. ITA ROME, ALPHEUS 14.09. ITA MILANO, TRANSILVANIA LIVE 15.09. HUN BUDAPEST, A35 16.09. PL WROCLOW, WZ 17.09. PL WARSZAWA, PROXIMA 18.09. D BISCHOFSWERDA, EAST CLUB 19.09. DK KOBNHAVN, LOPPEN 20.09. SWE GAVLE, MONSTER CLUB 21.09. SWE GOTEBORG, MUSIKENHUS
_____
Release Schedule
Out Now: AFTER ALL - The Vermin Breed VANISHING POINT - Embrace The Silence DEATH BEFORE DISCO - Party Bullet IN-QUEST - The Comatose Quandaries AS WE FIGHT - Black Nails and Bloody Wrists
July 18, 2005 INTEGRITY - Sliver In The Hands Of Time
August 29, 2005 SAVAGE CIRCUS - Dreamland Manor PERSUADER - The Hunter DYECREST - This Is My World
October 31, 2005 MYSTIC CIRCLE - The Bloody Path Of God
In the Special Edition series of InsideOut Music the label is completing the new edition of five albums of melodic rock band ASIA. After "Aqua" and the Best of compilation "Anthology" now follows "Arena", "Aria" as well as the demo and outtakes collection "Archiva 1 & 2". These reissues are remastered and feature bonus material. All reissues are released with relief printed slipcases, containing bonus tracks, enlarged booklets, exclusive photographic material and new liner notes. www.asiaworld.org
Many a fan already knows the Swedish CARPTREE well. Their third album "Man Made Machine" had already been released as a private release and used for promotion purposes now and then when InsideOut Music signed the duet. At the end of August "Man Made Machine" will be released in an upgraded packaging in Europe. The album offers song-oriented art pop rooted in progressive rock. www.carptree.com
At the end of September the new and still untitled KING'S X album will be out. The Texan trio has written 14 new songs. The best ones will be put on the longplayer. Michael Wagener is the producer (Metallica, Alice Cooper, Queen, Ozzy Osbourne, Dokken, Megadeth, Mötley Crue). www.kingsxonline.com
RIVERSIDE are docking with InsideOut Music. The Polish band are currently working on their second record "Second Life Syndrome" which will be out in autumn. Their mix of new art rock and hard, almost metal elements and touches of Porcupine Tree, Pink Floyd, quieter Opeth, and also Anathema last year led to a thoroughly convincing debut. www.riverside.art.pl
With the exception of a surprisingly booked gig in Frankfurt in last November one had hardly heard from them for almost eight years. Now the Munich progsters SIEGES EVEN are "really" back as a new entry at InsideOut: full of inspiration they play on their new record "The Art Of Navigating By The Stars" which will be out at the end of September. Many an old fan will be surprised what kind of catchy sounds the Bavarians are able to produce without drifting into shallow waters. This means: The band has considerably reduced their hyper complex style. The whole thing is cut out to be one of the progressive highlights of this year. www.siegeseven.com
STREAM OF PASSION is a new band project with gothic touch and an international line-up which was initiated by Ayreon mastermind Arjen Lucassen from the Netherlands: around the Mexican singer Marcela Bovio known from the last Ayreon album "The Human Equation" gathered US lead guitarist Lori Linstruth, the Mexican piano player Alejandro Millán, and Lucassen's countrymen Johan van Stratum (bass) and Davy Mickers (drums) as well as Lucassen himself on guitar. The debut album "Embrace The Storm" will be out at the end of September. At the beginning of next year the band will go on tour. First impressions offers a videotrailer on the newly cleared band website. www.streamofpassion.com
With Umphrey McGee InsideOut Music recently signed the first band of the so-called jam band scene. Jam Rock - that's a phenomenon which already got a audience of millions in the States. With STRING CHEESE INCIDENT the second deal follows. Musically, both acts can hardly be compared to each other but their attitude towards music, their variety, and their stage performance when they are melting the most diverse styles and give them a new shape, makes clear that it is a band of high-calibre of this still young genre with grand predecessors such as The Grateful Dead, it's a band which will certainly find its fan community in the old world, too. www.stringcheeseincident.com
The work on the new album by SYMPHONY X is delayed. The reason for this: an offer the US prog metal band received to tour with acts such as Dream Theater, Megadeth, Fear Factory, and Anthrax for seven weeks in North America in this summer. The tour is about to start. Information about line-up and gig dates you will find under the URL www.gigantour.com. www.symphonyx.com
Also new at InsideOut Music is THE TEA PARTY. Trademark of the Canadians: solid classcial rock with touches of The Doors and Led Zeppelin, and the whole thing enriched with oriental influences. Their new album "Seven Circles" - already out in North America - will be out in Europe at the end of September. On the band's official European website (www.theteaparty.de) you can download a videoclip of the "Seven Circles" track "Oceans". On the website there is also talk of a possible forthcoming tour with Def Leppard. www.theteaparty.de, www.teaparty.com
At the end of July InsideOut's sublabel REVISITED RECORDS continues the new edition of KLAUS SCHULZE's backcatalogue with the albums "Audentity", "Body Love", "Dune", and "Miditerranean Pads". +++ The series of KRAAN reissues starts at the beginning of August with "Wiederhören", "Nachtfahrt", and "Live 88". +++ The British artist PAUL GURVITZ has left a lot of traces in rock music history, among others as a member of The Gun, Baker Gurvitz Army, and Three Man Army; in August Revisited Records will release "Live" of the BAKER GURVITZ ARMY, "3" of the THREE MAN ARMY as well as Gurvitz' solo album "Rated PG". +++ The new GURU GURU studio album "In The Guru Lounge" will be forerunner of a series of re-releases of those legendary Krautrockers around drumming derwish and "Elektrolurch" Mani Neumaier. +++ Since the 70's he was scarcely noticed, FRANK MARINO who cares about his partly psychedelic guitar rock, characterized by long improvisations - and this on a level which can be compared with virtuoso players such as Gallagher, Hendrix, or Stevie Ray Vaughan. In September there will be the start of a series of reissues with albums by Frank Marino & Mahogany Rush. +++ And last but not least: PETE TOWNSHEND will re-release great parts of his backcatalogue in Europe on Revisited Records. This will start in September with "Anthology", an exhibition of his work. www.klaus-schulze.com www.kraan.de www.paulgurvitz.com www.mahoganyrush.com www.petetownshend.co.uk
------------------------------ NEW RELEASES / InsideOut Music ------------------------------
CARPTREE: "Man Made Machine", RELEASE:, August 29th STRING CHEESE INCIDENT: "One Step Closer", RELEASE: 29. August 29th
------------------------------- STILL CURRENT / InsideOut Music -------------------------------
AYREON: "Come Back To Me" (CD single), RELEASE: June 13th TOMAS BODIN: "I Am", RELEASE: June 2005 27th STEVE HOWE: "Spectrum", RELEASE: June 27th SPIRITUAL BEGGARS: "Demons", RELEASE: June 20th 2005
-------------------------------- IN PREPARATION / InsideOut Music --------------------------------
IT BITES: "Live In Montreux" (CD), September 19th IT BITES: "Live In Tokyo" (DVD), September 19th KINGS'S X: new studio album, RELEASE: September 26th SIEGES EVEN: "The Art Of Navigating By The Stars", RELEASE: September 26th SPOCK'S BEARD: "Live in 2005 - Gluttons For Punishment" (double CD), RELEASE: August 29th STREAM OF PASSION: "Embrace The Storm", RELEASE: September 26th THE TEA PARTY: "Seven Circles", RELEASE: September 26th
Dutch Death Metal leviathans NOX are finishing up recording their long awaited debut record for Wicked World. The band, comprised of ex-Centurian guitarist Rob Oorthuis and new drummer Bob Dussel respectively, plus Severe Torture members Patrick Boleij and Seth v/d Loo, (both also ex-Centurian) spent over a year completing the demos for the recording before hooking up with Hans Pieters at Excess Studios, Rotterdam, Holland.
Tentatively titled "Ixaxaar" it features the following tracks:
1) Zacar Od Zamran 2) Choronzonic Chaos Gods 3) Darkness Undying 4) Insane Hatred For The Supposed Creator 5) Blind Mad God 6) Intoxicated With Death 7) The Jesus Sect 8) Satan Ex-Machina 9) Zazaz
Rob Oorthuis informs us that
"This Death-ritual has torn us all inside out, which is good. No major obstacles, everything went pretty smooth. I guess the Bright White Light has given up on Nox. Yes, Eight-Rayed Terror Unfurled!
"Ixaxaar" is due for release on Wicked World / Earache later this year.
BEECHER frontman Ed Godby talks about the bands new album, "This Elegy, His Autopsy", which they recorded recently with Kurt Ballou of Converge at God City Studios, Boston USA:
" The recording of 'This Elegy, His Autopsy,' was an interesting and satisfying experience, because it was the first time that we, really, had enough studio time to experiment properly with our sound".
"Over the 12 months previous to recording we had been very occupied with putting together an album, in the rehearsal room, that explored more deeply all the different sounds that make up Beecher, and we all felt, as the time came to enter the studio, that what we had come up with was a more substantial and thorough piece of music".
"I think that the result of the recording process is an all-round more focussed effort than anything we have done previously, not only in the fact that the album tells a story, but it also creates an atmosphere".
"The mood of the record twists and turns over 43 minutes, from the songs which might be described as having a definitive 'Beecher' sound, such as the opener "It's Good Weather For Black Leather" to the hypnotic, almost post-rock esque ". And On The Day That He Became A Human Plumb Line" onto the frantic, grinding melee of "Psycho Galvanic Skin Response" to the crushing finale of "Reach Up To The Gods".
"All in all we seem to have developed on all of the sounds and influences that we have always cited as Beecher, and we have created a record that we feel is exciting and original. Both raging and beautiful, "This Elegy, His Autopsy' could well be our defining album."
"This Elegy, His Autopsy" is released on Earache on September 12th 2005
Download "Function! Function!" from the upcoming Beecher album plus 15 other current and unreleased tracks on the free BURN downloadable for free at ' .
Launch Radio Networks reports: DEF LEPPARD guitarist Vivian Campbell will release his first solo album, "Two Sides of If", on September 6. Campbell will be joined on the blues-oriented album by ZZ TOP's Billy Gibbons, singer Joan Osbourne, and former FRANK ZAPPA and MISSING PERSONS drummer Terry Bozzio. "Two Sides of If" features a collection of Campbell's favorite blues songs, including WILLIE DIXON's "I Ain't Superstitious" and "Spoonful", FLEETWOOD MAC's "Like It This Way" and "Willin' For Satisfaction", RORY GALLAGHER's "Calling Card", and MEL LONDON's "Messin' With The Kid"
German power metallers RAGE will enter producer Charlie Bauerfeind's VPS Studios in late September to begin recording their new album, tentatively due on March 20, 2006 via Nuclear Blast Records. The band will spend much of August in pre-production before guitarist Victor Smolski records the orchestra parts for a "Suite Lingua Mortis" in Minsk. The 20-minute band/orchestra piece, for which Victor is currently working hard on the notation, will be the main part of the new RAGE album. The recordings will be completed by the end of November, with the mix tentatively scheduled to take place in December.
SEPULTURA guitarist Andreas Kisser has entered A Voz do Brasil studio in São Paulo, Brazil to begin recording his his first solo album, tentatively due in early 2006 via Holland's Mascot Records. No further information is currently available.
As previously reported, SPV Records recently pushed back the projected release date of the new SEPULTURA album to early next year. The upcoming CD will be based on the "The Divine Comedy", widely considered the greatest epic poem of Italian literature, and one of the greatest of world literature.
Just a small update of news from our camp for whoever is interested. We have just recorded three new tracks for a forthcoming EP to be released by Serpent's Lair records. The new, lengthy compositions are called 'The pains of sleep' and 'Pavor Nocturnus' and they have been recorded at The Lodge in Northampton. We have also re-recorded our cover of Katatonia's 'For funerals to come', to be also included in the EP. The track has been recorded at Priory Studios and engineered by Greg Chandler. Furthermore, our full '1000 years' demo shall be remastered and included as bonus on the EP. The new material clocks at 29 minutes, so all together you'll get 62 minutes of funereal music. More updates and hopefully a sample will follow soon at the Pantheist site and forum.
There are also some line-up changes in the band. We welcome Sterghios on drums (ex Monsterworks) who has already recorded with us on the new tracks. Unfortunately, we will also have to say goodbye to our guitar player and co-founding member Nicolas, who is moving to the States for family reasons. We wish him all the best and thank him for his invaluable contribution to the band.
With that it becomes clear that we are in search for a guitar player right now, so applications are welcome. The ideal candidate should live not too far from the London area, have his own equipment and be able to attend rehearsals regularly. Ability to perform both as lead and rhythm guitarist are essential, as well as an open-minded, creative approach to music. Anyone interested, contact us at Pan@doom-metal.com"
A live recording of a new ARCTURUS track, entitled "Demon Painter", has been posted online at ' (8.5 MB).
"Demon Painter" is expected to appear on the band's upcoming album, "Sideshow Symphonies" tentatively due in September via Season Of Mist.
ARCTURUS, whose current lineup includes DIMMU BORGIR bassist Simen Hestnaes (a.k.a. ICS Vortex, ex-BORKNAGAR, LAMENTED SOULS) on lead vocals, are planning to film a live DVD at their September 24, 2005 concert at Rockefeller in Oslo, Norway.
Hestnaes' first appearance back with ARCTURUS took place at the Inferno Festival kick-off event at the Underworld in London on January 27.
Hestnaes had previously performed vocals on three tracks and written the lyrics for one song on ARCTURUS' 1997 album, "La Masquerade Infernale".
ARCTURUS announced in January that vocalist Øyvind Hægeland (SPIRAL ARCHITECT) had left the group. No reason was given for his departure.
FEAR FACTORY's new album, "Transgression", will be made available in Europe as a limited-edition pack with a bonus DVD. The DVD is expected to include studio/rehearsal footage, three music videos ("Moment of Impact", "Transgression" and "Spinal Compression") and the whole album audio in digital sound.
"Transgression" is scheduled for release on August 23 (one day earlier internationally) via Calvin Records, an imprint of Liquid 8 Records. A 45-second audio sample of first single "Supernova", which features a guest appearance by former FAITH NO MORE bassist Billy Gould, is available at ' (Real Media).
FEAR FACTORY entered Track Record Studios in North Hollywood, California on May 5 with producer Toby Wright (ALICE IN CHAINS, KORN, SOULFLY) to begin recording the follow-up to last year's "Archetype". Included on "Transgression" is "New Promise", which was co-written with Mark Morton of LAMB OF GOD.
OBITUARY's video for the track "Insane" has been posted online at ' (Windows Media).
"Insane" (' ) comes off the group's new album, "Frozen In Time", which comes out today (July 19) via Roadrunner Records.
The group's first collection of new songs since 1997's "Back from the Dead", "Frozen In Time" was self-produced by the band, with Mark Prator and Scott Burns engineering, and was mastered by Tom Morris at Morrisound.
ATROCITY/LEAVES' EYES singer/producer Alexander Krull was named "Producer of the Year" by the American magazine True Alternatives, according to a posting on the LEAVES' EYES web site. Krull received the award for his work on the following projects: "Atlantis" (ATROCITY), "Lovelorn" and "Vinland Saga" (both LEAVES' EYES), "Dark Clouds in a Perfect Sky" (ELIS), "Where Twilight Dwells" (MIDNATTSOL) and "Goatreich-Fleshcult" (BELPHEGOR).
A number of high-quality photos taken at this past weekend's Tuska Open Air Metal Festival have been posted online at Mesta.net.
Tuska Open Air Metal Festival was held July 15-17 at Kaisaniemi Park in Helsinki, Finland. Bands that performed at the festival included MONSTER MAGNET, APOCALYPTICA, FINNTROLL, PRIMAL FEAR, DESTRUCTION, DIMMU BORGIR, TESTAMENT, GAMMA RAY, ACCEPT, SENTENCED, CHILDREN OF BODOM and EVERGREY.
German epic metallers BLIND GUARDIAN have announced a replacement for drummer Thomen Stauch, who left the band in April after 20 years.
The new man behind the kit is fellow German Frederik Ehmke, who is said to be "fairly unknown in the world of metal."
"A few weeks ago an unknown guy who introduced himself as Frederik Ehmke applied for the job as a drummer in a fairly firm manner. His vital, expressive and skillful performances of some BLIND GUARDIAN classics ('Journey Through The Dark', 'Time Stands Still' and 'And Then There Was Silence') blew us away completely. Pretending not to be convinced, we invited him to do a shootout recording session under real production terms to check out if the creative chemistry would also work out fine. After finishing these recordings it was obvious to us: Frederik is going to be our new drummer!
"It was essential for us to find a musician, who on one side would be able to integrate old GUARDIAN trademarks in his playing, but on the other side would also be confident enough to bring in his own vision of the BLIND GUARDIAN drums in a tasteful and, for the music, suitable way. Frederik is a calm and handsome fellow, who's aware of his abilities and who also knows what he wants. For us he is the lucky draw.
"We are convinced you will be as impressed by his drum performance as we are. Now we are looking forward to starting the next album production. There is a good amount of work ahead of us but we are absolutely ready to go. You can expect a very interesting album with strong songs. We will keep you informed."
The production of BLIND GUARDIAN's debut album for Nuclear Blast Records will start soon with the help of producer Charlie Bauerfeind. No album title has been set as of yet, but it looks like the CD will contain a total of ten songs. Working songtitles include "Carry The Blessed Home", "The Edge", "In Search For The Lionheart", "Market Square", "Another Stranger Me", and "Otherland". The release of the first single is planned for February 2006, with the album to follow in April. A European tour will kick off in September 2006.
15 people were arrested for public drunkenness and disorderly conduct following DEICIDE's live debut in Chile, which took place Friday (July 15) at Gimnasio Nataniel in Santiago.
More than 3,000 fans attended the concert, which went ahead despite objections from local church officials, who had asked the authorities to prevent the group from playing in country out of respect for an Italian Catholic priest who was murdered by a DEICIDE fan almost a year ago. Photos of DEICIDE hanging out with their Chilean fans are available at ' .
CHILDREN OF BODOM have recorded a cover version of BRITNEY SPEARS' "Oops I Did It Again" for their upcoming single, "In Your Face". The single, which is scheduled for release in Finland on August 17 via Spinefarm, will contain the following track listing:
01. In Your Face 02. Oops I Did It Again 03. In Your Face (censored version)
A total of two cover songs were recorded during the recording sessions for the group's new album, "Are You Dead Yet?". The second cover song will be used as bonus track for the Japanese version of the album.
MOSS will release their debut album 'Chtonic Rites' on ComaWorx in october 2005. The album will initially be issued as a gatefold vinyl, limited to 666 copies on 180 grams vinyl with insert. The cd will follow later on with different artwork. The album is produced by Jus Oborn (ELECTRIC WIZARD) at Chuckalumba studio and mastered by Greg Chandler (ESOTERIC). It will feature two monolithic tracks of horrid nihilistic doom of approx. 20 minutes each
PLACE OF SKULLS enter the studio on August 1st for the recording of their 3rd full length cd to be released by Exile On Mainstream Records.
There is no album title available at this time but the recording will take place at Lakeside Studios with Travis Wyrick and Mike Dearing at the controls.
The album will feature the standard line-up of Dennis Cornelius, Tim Tomaselli, & Victor Griffin while long-time friend and original PLACE OF SKULLS/DEATH ROW bassist Lee Abney will also make a guest appearance.
The Swedish doomsters Beneath The Frozen Soil have finally released their 4-track EP 'The First Wreath'. It contains a prelude and 3 songs of slow, melancholic, beautiful doom with a touch of death and a blackish feel to it.
The first print of the EP is limited to a hand-numbered edition of 123 copies. This edition is available from the band's homepage, where a full track is also available for download.
More details have been revealed about the upcoming IMMORTAL tribute album, "Epimythion - Tribute to Immortal", tentatively due this fall via Greece's Townsend Avalanche Music. The complete track listing for the CD is as follows:
TRAGEDY BEGINS - "The Sun No Longer Rises" BEYOND DAWN - "Storming Through Red Clouds And Holocaust Winds" ENDWARFMENT - "Unsilent Storms in the North Abyss" KEEP OF KALESSIN – "Throned by Blackstorms" SUNN O))) – "Cursed Realms of the Winterdemons" OCD+BRAINCONTROLLER - "Pure Holocaust" ZWEIZZ - "Blacker than Darkness" VREID - "As the Eternity Opens" FUNERAL PROCESSION – "Mountains of Might" SETH - "Battles in the North" ENTHRONED - "Eternal Years on the Path to the Cemetary Gates" HAUNTED GATES – "One by One" WRATHAGE – "Through the Halls of Eternity" THE ASHES – "Withstand the Fall of Time"
Swiss brutal death metallers TODESBLEI have finished the songwriting process for their second full-length album, tenatively titled "Todsunden". The band entered Helvete Studios, based in Dornbirn, Austria, last Saturday (July 9) to begin recording the CD for a fall 2005 release.
French symphonic black metal act ANOREXIA NERVOSA are putting the finishing touches on a new mini-CD, "The September", containing cover songs from FORBIDDEN SITE and DARKTHRONE, live tracks recorded during the band's "Redemption Process" French tour, and two songs that were previously only available in Japan. In addition, the band have remixed their live favorite "Sister September" for the occasion. "The September" is scheduled for release this fall, in time for the band's European tour with VADER.
Montreal's extreme metal champions CRYPTOPSY have finished recording their as-yet-untitled new album for an October release through Century Media Records. Guitar player Alex Auburn checked in with the following wrap-up: "We have finished the fifth full-length CRYPTOPSY album. We started recording the album on May 16 at Vortex Studio in St-Constant, about 20 minutes south of Montreal. It was really fun and quiet recording there, as not a lot goes on in a small city like that, so we really focused on recording. Eleven tracks totaling about 50 minutes, this is a concept album where every song has its own identity, and we made sure to have a lot of flavors and different rhythms and tempos throughout the whole process. The variations in the tracks may surprise some of you. The goal this time around was to focus on writing excellent songs, which we did. Producer Sebastien Marsan did a phenomenal job, and we are glad he took the time to work with us. Finally, this album will be out soon, and we can't wait to see you all when we hit the road with this new material."
Drummer Rikard Wermen of the reactivated Swedish death metallers DERANGED has issued the following update:
"Yes, the rumor is true… We have started to work on a new full-length! We're planning to record it sometime in January next year. No titles whatsoever yet... Either song titles or name of the actual album. It'll come... We've got six new tracks so far. The plan right now is to have 10 songs on the new disc. We'll soon record some kind of demo of the new songs... We always do that, record a rough demo whenever we have a bunch of new songs. Just to have something when we're working on lyrics and vocal patters. Unless you've been living a cave and never ever read an interview with a band that will soon have or have most recently released a new disc, you haven't heard the following before... Anyway, it's been said a million of times before but... Most of the times it's fucking wannabee and rock-star bullshit but this time around it's true though... The new material is indeed some of the best musical work I have ever been part of and I can't wait to have it all properly recorded and nicely commercially packed. It's fucking DERANGED we're talking about and we have not gone soft and all commercially sloppy. Why should we? Haven't done so yet and can't see any sense in doing it now either... DERANGED have never been about faking shit... The new shit (!) is extremely fast, mean and brutal as a New Year's Day hangover. If you have been into what we've done under the name DERANGED earlier you'll fucking get a hard-on and shit your pants... Further on, we'll do a bunch of gigs the autumn..."
Swedish grindcore merchants NASUM have uploaded a previously unreleased video for the track "Scoop", directed Mitch Harris of NAPALM DEATH, on their official web site. Check it out at ' .
According to a posting on the site, "Mitch made this video from pictures he shot during the soundcheck and concert in Tokyo, Japan January 12, 2004. Shane Embury [NAPALM DEATH bassist] played with us during two songs (not 'Scoop', though) and he's in the video for a little while. In the end you can also see Ritual Records boss Jumbo."
As reported here on July 3, Finnish melodic metallers STRATOVARIUS have now officially confirmed that they have enlisted bassist Lauri Porra (SINERGY, KOTIPELTO, TUNNELVISION, WARMEN) as the replacement for longtime member Jari Kainulainen, who left the group a few weeks ago. STRATOVARIUS have issued the following statement regarding the lineup change:
"Longtime bass player Jari Kainulainen has left STRATOVARIUS. There is no drama or bad blood. Jari just doesn't have it in his heart to tour this heavily anymore.
"Jari is not dropping out of the scene, he will continue to play metal.
"The new bass player is Lauri Porra. He is 27 years old and a native of Helsinki, Finland. He has previously played with SINERGY, WARMEN and KOTIPELTO."
Commented Lauri: "I'm very honored to be invited to play with STRATOVARIUS and follow in the steps of such a great bass player as Jari. I'm really looking forward to going on the road with STRATOVARIUS, to meet some old friends, and to hopefully make lot of new ones."
Check out pictures of the new STRATOVARIUS lineup at ' .
STRATOVARIUS' new self-titled album is scheduled for release on September 5 via Sanctuary Records. A video for the album's first single, "Maniac Dance", was shot on April 15 in Helsinki by director and guitarist Timo Tolkki's old schoolmate Antti Jokinen (BEYONCÉ, WYCLEF JEAN, KORN, MISSY ELLIOT, NIGHTWISH, SHANIA TWAIN, CELINE DION).
Swedish black metallers MARDUK have posted the following message on their official web site: "The South American tour will take place during November. We are just waiting for confirmation for the final dates then they will be posted. "The first rehearsals since drummer Emil broke his arm has been done. Can assure you all that MARDUK sounds more intense and brutal than ever before."
MARDUK were forced to cancel their European tour earlier in the year after drummer Emil Dragutinovic's arm was broken in a fight back in February.
The band recently put the finishing touches on the videos for the songs "Throne of Rats" and "The Hangman of Prague".
MARDUK's ninth full-length album, "Plague Angel", was released in the U.S. in March. The album came out in Europe last November via Blooddawn/Regain Records.
GAMMA RAY drummer Daniel Zimmermann has launched his official web site' . Zimmermann will be conducting a drum clinic at the Swedish Metal Expo at Fryshuset in Stockholm on August 27. More information is available at www.swedishmetalexpo.se. GAMMA RAY's new album, "Majestic" is scheduled for release on September 26 via Sanctuary Records.
Swedish power metallers NOCTURNAL RITES have commenced the mixing process for their new album for a late 2005 release via Century Media Records. The new CD was recorded at a studio in the group's hometown of Umeå with producer Shep. In addition, the band have already shot a video for the album's projected lead single/video, "Fools Never Die", which is being described by bassist Nils Eriksson as "a nice mid-tempo song that definitely will get you all going."
NOCTURNAL RITES' sixth studio album, "New World Messiah", was released last year through Century Media. The follow-up to 2002's "Shadowland" was recorded in Umeå and was mixed and mastered at Finnvox Studio in Helsinki, Finland by T.T. Oksala (TIAMAT, APOCALYPTICA) and Minerva Pappi.
Polish death/black metallers BEHEMOTH have just completed work on a new design of their official web site, '
The new web site was is the result of a collaboration between BEHEMOTH's graphic designer, Graal, BEHEMOTH's webmaster, Manticore, and the band's vocalist and guitarist Nergal, who was in charge of the site's artistic direction.
Commented Nergal: "Hello f(r)iends!. Finally, after months of intense work we can proudly announce that BEHEMOTH has a revamped and fully redesigned website. Our graphic designer Graal (Tomasz Danilowicz) and webmaster Manticore (Maciek Gruszka) have completed a monumental effort on this. For each album, we want the graphics on our website to perfectly correspond with the current cover artwork. We really think we did a great job and are truly satisfied with the way it turned out. Although I have to say that we are really sorry for being delayed, as we had planned and promised ourselves and fans that it would have been ready for the album release date. Anyway, we can assure you all that this refreshed website will motivate us to work even harder on any updates, reports etc. in the future. Thank U all for endless support and hope you will visit us often and enjoy the brand new virtual world of BEHEMOTH!"
Swedish metallers HYPOCRISY have uploaded the cover artwork for their upcoming album, "Virus", at this location.
"Virus" is scheduled for release on September 19 via Nuclear Blast Records. A video for the song "Scrutinized" was shot last month and will begin airing soon.
"Virus" track listing:
01. Intro (not named yet) 02. Warpath 03. Scrutinized 04. Fearless 05. Craving for Another Killing 06. Let the Knife Do the Talking 07. A Thousand Lies 08. Incised Before I've Ceased 09. Blooddrenched 10. Compulsive Psychosis 11. Living to Die
HYPOCRISY's most recent album, "The Arrival", was released in February 2004 through Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Catch-22" was recorded at frontman Peter T?gtgren's Abyss studios.
FLOWING TEARS' latest album, "Razorbliss", will receive its long-overdue U.S. release on July 12 via Magick Records (a division of Cleopatra Records). "We're just about to start some promotional work to support the release and can't wait to get your reactions on the album," the German band write on their web site.
"Apart from that we're still busy with the songwriting process for the upcoming album. We're very exited about the visions we've developed so far and we're even more exited about the stuff we still will have to write — and when the time has come we'll tell you more about the monster we're creating..."
"Razorbliss" was released in Europe in March 2004 through Century Media Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Serpentine" was recorded at Woodhouse Studios in Hagen, Germany with producer Waldemar Sorychta (THE GATHERING, LACUNA COIL, SENTENCED, MOONSPELL) and was the band's first to feature vocalist Helen Vogt, who replaced Stefanie Duch?ne in 2003.
Norway's legendary eccentric artist MORTIIS has just completed a remix of the GIRLS UNDER GLASS song "Touch Me", now re-titled "Touch Me (Cleanse & Corrupt Mix)", for their upcoming download single, "Touch Me". More information is available at www.girlsunderglass.de. Mortiis has also just completed a remix for Italian band DOPE STARS INC.'s song "Self Destructive Corp.", now re-titled "Self Destructive Corp (Midnight Mass Mix)". More information can be found at www.dopestarsinc.com. Mortiis also laid down vocals for the Norwegian/American project SCUM, featuring Samoth (ZYKLON, ex-EMPEROR), Faust (ex-EMPEROR), Happy Tom (TURBONEGRO), Casey Chaos (AMEN) and Cosmocrator (MINDGRINDER). He contributed backing vocals to the song "Backstabbers Go to Heaven" for SCUM's upcoming debut album, "Gospels for the Sick" (due September 5 via Dogjob Records, a division of Tuba) and lead vocals and lyrics to a song called "Speaking in Tongues", which will be released on an EP.
AEROSMITH have reportedly set "Rockin' the Joint" as the title of their upcoming live album, tentatively due in October. The CD is believed to have been recorded at The Joint at The Hard Rock in Las Vegas, Nevada on January 11, 2002.
In a recent interview with MTV.com, AEROSMITH guitarist Joe Perry said that AEROSMITH will likely start rehearsing at the end of August for a fall tour in support of the upcoming live CD and accompanying DVD.
"We don't have that much live stuff out, and one of the things fans have been requesting is a straight live DVD that's a whole concert rather than something cut up with backstage footage," Perry said. "So we're looking at a few shows, some of which are from the last tour, and that's something we'd really like to do."
At this point, AEROSMITH plan to finish the tour, then return to the studio in 2006 to work on the follow-up to last year's blues album, "Honkin' on Bobo". Perry expects the new AEROSMITH record to sound like a hybrid of the loose, freewheeling "Bobo" and 2001's more technical "Just Push Play".
"We have 30 years of playing live together, and that's a real asset," Perry said. "And that's what we drew from on 'Bobo'. We didn't have time to do a full studio record, but we wanted to press the reset button and do something that was less layered and precise. I hope some of that rubs off on our next recording experience so there's still some of that live edge."
Finnish gothic rockers ENTWINE wlll be releasing a new EP, "Silver", in Europe on August 10. The CD will consist of two new songs, one cover and two live songs. The complete track listing for the EP is as follows:
01. Break Me 02. Carry On Dancing 03. Still Waiting 04. Still Remains (live) 05. The Pit (live)
BLACK LABEL SOCIETY's video for the "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott tribute track "In This River" has been posted online at ' . In the video, which was shot with Eric Zimmerman (MEGADETH, NAPALM DEATH), mainman Zakk Wylde's seen seated at a grand piano set in the middle of a flowing river. Once the song reaches the guitar solo, Wylde smashes his guitar and sets the piano ablaze.
"In This River" comes off BLACK LABEL SOCIETY's latest album, "Mafia", which has sold 141,520 copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
Long-running Swedish death metallers DISMEMBER will enter Sami Studio in Stockholm on August 15 to begin recording their seventh album. The recording sessions will end in September, with a planned mid-January 2006 release date through Regain Records. Drummer Fred Estby will once again produce the follow-up to 2004's "Where Ironcrosses Grow". New songtitles include "The God That Never Was", "Feel the Darkness" and "Through the Unbroken Black".
Regain Records recently reissued a major part of the band's back catalogue, including "Pieces", "Indecent & Obscene", "Massive Killing Capacity", "Death Metal", "Hate Campaign" and "Complete Demos".
According to CD-Maximum's media service, KIPELOV's new album "Reki Vremeni" ("Rivers Of Time") due to hit the stores in September 2005. The follow-up to "Put Naverh"(2003) will include 9 tracks and feature Victor Smolskii (RAGE) guest appearance. The shooting of "Ja zdes" ("I am here") video will start in mid-July in Minsk with director Vladimir Jankovskii. Release and press parties are sheduled for mid-November 2005 in Moscow. See more details on the band's official site ' .
The long awaited vinyl version of Pagan Altar's debut CD 'Volume 1' has just been released by Black Widow records re-titled as 'Judgement of the Dead', which was what the band had initially planned to title the album. The edition features fantastic new artwork and includes the 48 page long 'Behind the Cloak' book, which is the band's biography from 1978 'till today. Additionally, an alternate version of the song 'March of the Dead' is included as a bonus track. A limited edition of 300 red coloured vinyl copies is also available.
ELVENKING's third album is scheduled to be mastered by on July 26 at Finnvox studios in Finland by Mika Jussila. A late 2005 release via AFM Records is expected.
The follow-up to 2004's "Wyrd" was recorded at the Italian folk/power metal band 's own Sherpa Studios and was mixed at Sonic Pump studios in Finland by Nino Laurenne. Cover artwork and booklet layout are being designed by Hungarian artist Havancsák Gyula (ANNIHILATOR, GRAVE DIGGER).
REFLEXION, the Finnish band featuring vocalist Juha Kylmänen (FOR MY PAIN…, ex-TO/DIE/FOR), are curently mixing their long-awaited debut album at Soundtrack Studios in Helsinki for a fall release via Scandinavian A1 Music. The CD will be mastered on July 13 at Chartmakers in Helsinki by Svante Forsbäck. A single will precede the album late summer.
REFLEXION's three-song demo/CD, "Journey to Tragedy", was recorded in 2003 at Soundmix studio in Oulu, Finland.
ARCH ENEMY's upcoming album, "Doomsday Machine", is available for streaming in its entirety at ' .
"Doomsday Machine" is scheduled for release in the U.S. on July 26 (August 22 in Europe) via Century Media Records. Check out the cover artwork by acclaimed artist Joachim Luetke (DIMMU BORGIR, DESTRUCTION) at ' . The complete track listing for the album is as follows:
01. Enter the Machine 02. Skeleton Dance 03. Nemesis 04. Carry the Cross 05. I Am Legend/Out for Blood 06. Mechanic God Creation 07. Machtkampf 08. Slaves of Yesterday 09. We Are One 10. Taking Back My Soul 11. Opium 12. Hybrids of Steel
"Doomsday Machine" was co-produced by the band and Rickard Bengtsson at Slaughterhouse Studio in Sweden and was mixed by Andy Sneap at Backstage Studios in Derbyshire, U.K.
ARCH ENEMY last week shot a video for the track "Nemesis" with director George Bravo, who previously worked with the band on their "We Will Rise" clip.
Australian industrial death metal phenomenon THE BERZERKER are hard at work on their third album, tentatively titled "World of Lies", due later in the year via Earache Records.
Nuclear Blast Records has pushed back the projected release date of the new IN FLAMES album, "Come Clarity", to February 2006. No reason was given for the delay.
"Come Clarity" final track listing:
01. Take This Life 02. Leeches 03. Reflect the Storm 04. Dead End 05. Scream 06. Come Clarity 07. Vacuum 08. Pacing Death's Trail 09. Crawl through Knives 10. End of Things 11. Our Infinite Struggle 12. Vanishing Light 13. Your Bedtime Story Is Scaring Everyone
IN FLAMES will release a live set on double-DVD/double-CD, entitled "Used And Abused…In Live We Trust", on July 25.
Finnish folk metallers KORPIKLAANI recently finished production on their second video from their sophomore album, "Voice of Wilderness". The video for the track "Kädet Siipinä" is now available for viewing at ' .
Commented frontman Jonne Järvelä: "The lyrics to 'Kädet Siipinä' came to me after I read accounts about the Finnish evacuation after the war. Kilometers of long black lines of mourning and crying people, mainly recent widows and children with their belongings and cows, began their exodus moving away from the old Finland after the border changes that took place following the war."
According to ' , the new album from Moscow Deputy Mayor Mikhail Men (a.k.a. "Michael Men"), "Made in Moscow", featuring Glenn Hughes (DEEP PURPLE, BLACK SABBATH) and Joe Lynn Turner (RAINBOW, DEEP PURPLE), has been released in Russia on Inna Records.
Featuring nine songs, the CD is available in a regular and a limited-edition deluxe set featuring a "Made in Moscow Movie" DVD.
"Made in Moscow" track listing:
01. Arianna 02. Let The Fire Rage 03. Warrior Of The World 04. Forgive Her 05. On Your Marks 06. I'm Alive 07. Ond Friends 08. Circus Life 09. The Alchemist
Joe Lynn Turner visited Moscow last month to attend the premiere release party for the new album with many dignitaries, both political and musical. Russian musicians in attendance included Michael Men, Alexander Filonenko, Valery Diorditsa, Paul Titovets, Alexey Tumanov and Peter Makienko.
"Made in Moscow" is not currently available outside of Russia, but it has already been sighted on eBay.
Brazil's Marquee Records has jus re-released the debut album from legendary Canadian thrashers SACRIFICE, entitled "Torment in Fire". It comes as a double CD in a limited-edition hand-numbered slipcase and contains a massive booklet with liner notes by Laurent Ramadier, live pictures and personal comments by Joe Rico (guitar) and Rob Urbinati (guitar, vocals). The reissue features 42 songs in total, including one from SACRIFICE's first gig in 1984 — all remastered from the originals by Sidney Sohn (NASTY SAVAGE, IRON ANGEL). The complete track listing is as follows:
Disc 1:
"Torment in Fire" LP:
01. The Awekening 02. Sacrifice 03. Turn in Your Grave 04. Homicidal Breath 05. Warrior of Death 06. Infernal Visions 07. Burned at the Stake 08. Necronomicon 09. The Exorcism 10. Possession 11. Decapitation 12. Beyond Death
"The Exorcism" Demo
13. The Shining 14. Sacrifice 15. Turn in your Grave 16. Burned at the Stake 17. The Exorcism 18. Decapitation 19. Warrior of Death 20. Beyond Death
Danish metallers ILLDISPOSED will enter the studio in November to begin recording the follow-up to last year's "1-800 Vindication", tentatively due in early 2006 via Roadrunner Records.
Norwegian black metallers CARPATHIAN FOREST have posted the following message on their official web site:
"Although being busy with promoting the new NATTEFROST 'Terrorist' album, Nattefrost is finding time to record his vocals for the new CARPATHIAN FOREST album, that was recorded before the band's latest European tour; The Art of Provocation tour part I.
"Due to the promotional obligations, as well as various live gigs with CARPATHIAN FOREST this summer, the band hope to finish the album during August 2005. Not sure about the release date yet, but either in early November 2005, or late January 2006. The album will be followed up by extensive touring, starting in early 2006.
CANDLEMASS bassist/main songwriter Leif Edling has posted a report from the band's recent appearance at the Bang Your Head festival in Balingen, Germany. Check it out at '
CANDLEMASS are continuing to tour in support of their brand-new self-titled album, which entered the Swedish national album chart at position No. 7 upon its release in early May. The CD also came in at No. 5 on the Sweden chart (featuring only Swedish artists) and at No. 1 on the Hard Rock/Metal chart.
"Candlemass" was recorded in part at Polar studios (ABBA, GENESIS, LED ZEPPELIN) in Stockholm, Sweden and is said to be musically similar to the group's classic "Tales of Creation" and "Nightfall" albums.
Upcoming CANDLEMASS shows:
Jul. 08 - Rockwave Festival – Athens, GRE Aug. 04 - Wacken Festival – Wacken, GER Aug. 08 - Göteborgskalaset – Gothenburg, SWE Aug. 26 - Gorbunova – Moscow, RUS Nov. 26 - Arnhem Metal Meeting – Arnhem, NETH
Finnish melodic metallers SONATA ARCTICA are apparently in the process of booking a headlining tour of North America beginning in mid-January 2006. Two dates have been released so far:
Jan. 17 - Jaxx Nightclub - West Springfield, VA Jan. 18 - BB Kings Blues Club - New York, NY
More information will be made available soon.
SONATA ARCTICA will be embarking on a European headlining tour in September. The band's fourth studio album, "Reckoning Night", was released last year via Nuclear Blast Records.
According to MaidenFans.com, Vitamin Records has set an August 2 release date for a piano tribute to IRON MAIDEN, aptly titled "The Piano Tribute to Iron Maiden". The complete track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. 2 Minutes To Midnight 02. Wasted Years 03. Can I Play with Madness 04. The Trooper 05. Brave New World 06. Run to The Hills 07. Caught Somewhere In Time 08. Aces High 09. Hallowed Be Thy Name 10. Flight of Icarus 11. Number of The Beast 12. Eddie's Lament (Original Composition)
British metallers PARADISE LOST have opened a 2005 Tour Photo Gallery containing 140 photos sent in to the band by fans throughout the band's current tour. Check it out at this location:http://www.paradiselost.co.uk/viewgallery.php?id=9.
As previously reported, PARADISE LOST recently signed a licensing deal with Century Media Records to release the group's new self-titled album in all territories except for continental Europe and Japan, where the CD is still licensed to G.U.N./Sony BMG.
The tentative U.K. release date is still set to be August. More information will be made available soon.
PARADISE LOST's new self-titled album — named in celebration of the group's 10th studio album since their full-length debut, "Lost Paradise", was released in 1990 — was recorded primarily at Chapel Studios in Lincolnshire, England under the guidance of producer Rhys Fulber (FEAR FACTORY, FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY). The follow-up to 2002's "Symbol of Life" is the group's first CD to feature drummer Jeff Singer (ex-BLAZE).
Danish thrashers HATESPHERE have set "The Sickness Within" as the title of their upcoming album, due on September 26 via SPV Records.
HATESPHERE entered Jailhouse Studios with producer Tommy Hansen (HELLOWEEN, PRETTY MAIDS) on June 5 to begin recording the follow-up to 2004's "Ballet of the Brute". Guitars and bass were recorded at Hansen Studios in Ribe, Denmark, with producer Jacob Hansen (RAUNCHY, INVOCATOR). This dynamic duo was also responsible for the production on the band's latest effort, "The Killing EP", which was released last January.
Commented singer Jacob Bredahl: "The new album will be more diverse than ever. We are still playing metal — hard as fuck! But this time with some new elements here and there. Fast parts, slow parts, melodic parts and very brutal parts — all that your metal heart needs."
"The Sickness Within" track listing (in no particualr order):
01. Heaven Is Ready to Fall 02. Seeds of Shame 03. Bleed to Death 04. The Coming of Chaos 05. Marked By Darkness 06. The White Fever 07. Sickness Within 08. Murderous Intent 09. The Fallen Shall Rise In a River of Blood 10. Reaper of Life 11. Chamber Master
HATESPHERE supported KREATOR on their "Enemy of God" European tour earlier in the year. Also appearing on the bill were Sweden's DARK TRANQUILLITY and Hungarian hardcore/thrash metallers EKTOMORF.
After spending the last few years as a successful producer in Los Angeles, former ANTHRAX/ZAKK WYLDE/WHITE LION drummer Greg D'Angelo (or "GD3", as he's now known) has joined ANTIPRODUCT as permanent replacement for ailing drummer Simon the Gonk.
ANTIPRODUCT are continuing work on recordings at Albert Studios (AC/DC, BREED 77) with famed producer Ray McVeigh (PERRY FARRELL, THE PROFESSIONALS, DANZIG) for a late summer release. "This is the first time we've ever been able to spend time recording in a real studio rather than counting change and breaking piggy banks to finish tracking!" states singer A. Product. "It sounds unlike anything we've ever done."
THE PROJECT HATE, the Swedish band featuring Jörgen Sandström of ENTOMBED/GRAVE fame on lead vocals, will release their new album, "Armageddon March Eternal (Symphonies of Slit Wrists)", on October 5 via Threeman Recordings. The follow-up to 2003's "Hate, Dominate, Congregate, Eliminate" was produced by Dan Swanö and features a special guest appearance by EVERGREY bassist Michael Håkansson, who completed his tracks at his studio in Gothenburg before the entire recording was shipped off to Swanö to be mixed and mastered. An MP3 of the album cut "At the Entrance to Hell's Unholy Fire" is available for download at this location.
A radio-broadcast-quality recording of OPETH's new track, entitled "The Grand Conjuration", has been posted online in MP3 format at ' (length - 9:55; size - 22.71 MB; quality – 320 kbps).
"The Grand Conjuration" comes off the Swedish band's upcoming album, "Ghost Reveries", due late August/early September through Roadrunner Records.
"Ghost Reveries" was mastered on June 16 at the Cutting Room facilities in Stockholm and will feature a running time of 65 minutes. The full track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Ghost of Perdition 02. The Baying of the Hounds 03. Beneath the Mire 04. Atonement 05. Reverie/Harlequin Forest 06. Hours of Wealth 07. The Grand Conjuration 08. Isolation Years
Check out the album cover artwork (designed by Travis Smith) at ' .
An audio sample of a brand-new CHARON track, entitled "Colder", is available for download from ' .
"Colder" comes off the group's upcoming album, "Songs for the Sinners", due in Finland on August 31 (September 5 internationally) via Spinefarm Records. The "Ride on Tears" single will precede the album on August 3.
CHARON entered Finnvox Studios in Helsinki in February with producer Mikko Karmila to begin recording the follow-up to 2003's "The Dying Daylights".
Swedish metallers HYPOCRISY have set "Virus" as the title of their new album, due on September 19 via Nuclear Blast Records. "Last week we did the video shooting for the song 'Scrutinized'," the group's bassist, Mikael Hedlund, writes on their web site. "We had a great time doing it and hope you gonna enjoy it as much as we do."
"Virus" track listing:
01. Intro (not named yet) 02. Warpath 03. Scrutinized 04. Fearless 05. Craving for Another Killing 06. Let the Knife Do the Talking 07. A Thousand Lies 08. Incised Before I've Ceased 09. Blooddrenched 10. Compulsive Psychosis 11. Living to Die
HYPOCRISY's most recent album, "The Arrival", was released in February 2004 through Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Catch-22" was recorded at frontman Peter Tägtgren's Abyss studio.
The cover artwork for CHILDREN OF BODOM's upcoming album, "Are You Dead Yet?", has been posted online at ' .
As previously reported, CHILDREN OF BODOM mastered "Are You Dead Yet?" on June 6 at Finnvox studios in Helsinki following a six-week recording/mixing session with producer Mikko Karmila. The complete track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Living Dead Beat 02. Are You Dead Yet? 03. If You Want Peace... Prepare for War 04. Punch Me I Bleed 05. In Your Face 06. Next in Line 07. Bastards of Bodom 08. Trashed, Lost & Strungout 09. We're Not Gonna Fall
"Are You Dead Yet?" is scheduled for release on September 14 in Finland and September 19 in the rest of the world.
CHILDREN OF BODOM have selected the track "In Your Face" as the first single off "Are You Dead Yet?". The single is scheduled for release on August 17 via Spinefarm Records.
CHILDREN OF BODOM mainman Alexi Laiho recently told Finland's Soundi magazine that "Are You Dead Yet?" will feature some completely new influences. The follow-up to 2003's "Hate Crew Deathroll" will apparently be even more straight-forward than its predecessor and will contain some industrial elements while retaining COB's trademark sound, including the super-fast guitar and keyboard solos.
Two tour dates in November in My Dying Bride's home country, are confirmed: November 18 they will play at the Astoria in London, and November 19 at Club Rio in Bradford. More as we get it.
Florida death metal pioneers OBITUARY will release their sixth studio record, "Frozen In Time", on July 19 via Roadrunner Records. OBITUARY is also planning to hit the road this fall with brethren NAPALM DEATH and DEAD TO FALL.
"After six years of inactivity, it's like we awakened out of hibernation just as heavy as we were before. It was like our sound was frozen in time," says vocalist John Tardy. "This album isn't a new beginning, it's just what we've always done; just newer and better."
Speaking of the music, "On the Floor" opens with an incisive, churning riff, thunderous beats and bloodcurdling vocals before shifting into a chugging, bone-splintering breakdown, "Blindsided" rides a gradually ascending hate groove to a destination just south of Hell, and "Back Inside" fuses colossal crunch with pummeling double-bass drumming to create a deadly mosh pit firestorm.
The group's first collection of new songs since 1997's "Back from the Dead", "Frozen In Time" was self-produced by the band, with Mark Prator and Scott Burns engineering, and was mastered by Tom Morris at Morrisound. Download the track "Insane" at Roadrun.com.
OBITUARY are in the process of booking a U.S. tour with NAPALM DEATH and DEAD TO FALL beginning in early September. As bassist Frank Watkins says, "We look forward to seeing everyone again. It has been a long time coming!!"
OBITUARY with NAPALM DEATH and DEAD TO FALL:
Sep. 01 - Springfield, VA - Jaxx Sep. 02 - Sayreville, NJ - Starland Ballroom Sep. 03 - Worcester, MA - The Palladium Sep. 04 - Hartford, CT - Webster Theatre Sep. 06 - New York, NY - B.B. King's Sep. 07 - Philadelphia, PA - Trocadero Sep. 09 - Columbus, OH - Newport Music Hall Sep. 10 - Cleveland, OH - House of Blues Sep. 12 - Chicago, IL - Metro Sep. 13 - Minneapolis, MN - First Avenue Sep. 14 - Milwaukee, WI - The Eagles Club Sep. 17 - St. Petersburg, FL - Jannus Landing Sep. 18 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL – Revolution
Launch Radio Networks reports: The QUEEN + PAUL RODGERS tour that was expected to hit North America later this summer or in early fall has now been officially bumped into next year. QUEEN guitarist Brian May confirmed what Launch reported last week — that the Western Hemisphere will get a few key shows in 2005, but the bulk of the road work on this continent will be in the early part of 2006. "The current plan is to come and do Aruba, which is a long story — don't even ask! (laughs) — and, and then to do New York and L.A. and make a little noise, and then hit Japan, where we have an offer to do some fairly big stuff, and then get back to the States to do the main stuff in the spring," May said.
QUEEN + PAUL RODGERS have a couple of shows left in Europe in early July. They've already announced shows in Aruba on October 8 and Tokyo, Japan, on October 26.
A live album called "Queen + Paul Rodgers Rock Live" will come out September 13. The first single will be "Fat Bottomed Girls" and "Reaching Out"/"Tie Your Mother Down".
In their Special Edition series, InsideOut Music reissues five albums of the melodic rockers ASIA, digitally remastered and featuring bonus material. All reissues have embossed slipcases, bonus tracks, extended booklets, exclusive photos, and new liner notes. The re-releases start with "Aqua" and the "Best of" "Anthology", in August follow "Arena", "Aria" as well "Archiva I + II". In honour of the Asia fanclub "Armada" the band provides a previously unreleased live version of "Aqua, Part 1" on their homepage for downloading.
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Arjen Lucassen as no one knew him: with his band project AYREON, usually appreciated for its fabluous mix of metal and bombast, folk, hard and progressive rock, on the new four track single "Come Back To Me" he offers two original "sound experiments". Apart from "Come Back To Me", a variation of the "The Human Equation" song "Day Seven: Hope" with a new title as well as the previously unreleased "August Fire" the single contains a "Come Back To Me" dance version (!) and also the very original Beatles cover "When I'm Sixty-Four" which was already recorded ten years ago. A video clip for "Come Back To Me" and a "Making of" video complete the package. The first edition comes with a digipak and got a code with which one gets access to exclusive downloads on the Aryreon website until the end of September. To match the tenth Ayreon anniversary InsideOut Music recently has completed the new edition of Ayeron's five album backcatalogue.
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Fans and critics celebrated EVERGREY's live DVD which came out at the end of May as work of reference regarding quality and getup. And "A Night To Remember" immediately entered the Swedish DVD charts on number one, too. Meanwhile Tom Englund & Co. are tirelessly touring: there are new confirmed festival dates in England, Finland, Italy, and Sweden.
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KING'S X want to release a new album at the end of September and then go on tour.
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InsideOut's sublabel REVISITED RECORDS continues the new edition of KLAUS SCHULZE's back catalogue in June with the albums "Audentity", "Body Love", "Dune" and "Miditerranean Pads". The start of the KRAAN series of reissues will be delayed a little bit: the first three album "Wiederhoren", "Nachtfahrt" and "Live 88" will be out on July 18th. The British artist PAUL GURVITZ has left many tracks in rock history, among others he was member of The Gun, Baker Gurvitz Army and Three Man Army. In July, Revisited Records releases "Live" of the BAKER GURVITZ ARMY, "3" of the THREE MAN ARMY as well as Gurvitz' solo album "Rated PG". Further reissues of AMON DUUL II have to be postponed.
SPOCK'S BEARD are preparing the release of a live double album and again go on a European tour in October.
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-------------------------------- СВЕЖАЯ ВЫПЕЧКА / InsideOut Music --------------------------------
AYREON: "Come Back To Me" (CD-Single), RELEASE: June 13th TOMAS BODIN: "I Am", RELEASE: June 27th 2005 SPIRITUAL BEGGARS: "Demons", RELEASE: June 20th 2005 STEVE HOWE: "Spectrum", RELEASE: June 27th 2005
--------------------------------- ВСЕ ЕЩЕ ГОРЯЧИЕ / InsideOut Music ---------------------------------
EVERGREY: "A Night To Remember" (live DVD), RELEASE: May 23rd KAIPA: "Mindrevolutions", RELEASE: May 30th 2005 PRESTO BALLET: "Peace Among The Ruins", RELEASE: June 6th 2005 SHADOW GALLERY: "Room V", RELEASE: May 30th 2005
--------------------------------- СКОРО ВЫЙДУТ... / InsideOut Music ---------------------------------
KINGS'S X: new studio album, t.b.a. SIEGES EVEN: "The Art Of Navigating By The Stars" SPOCK'S BEARD: live double album, t.b.a.
IRON MAIDEN singer Bruce Dickinson's new solo album, "Tyranny of Souls", has registered the following first-week chart positions around the world:
#2: Greece #10: Finland #10: Sweden #24: Hungary #34: Italy #39: Germany #58: Austria #65: UK #71: Canada #73: Switzerland #101: France #180: USA
"Tyranny of Souls" sees Dickinson renewing a fruitful collaboration with guitarist/producer/writer Roy Z of the Latin-based rock group TRIBE OF GYPSIES. Z has worked with Bruce since 1994's "Balls to Picasso" album, also producing the likes of HELLOWEEN, DOWNSET, HALFORD and most recently JUDAS PRIEST's reunion album, "Angel of Retribution".
Sweden's HYPOCRISY have finalized the track listing for their as-yet-untitled new album, due on September 5 via Nuclear Blast Records. "Even though the album is still untitled, we can guarantee you that it sounds killer!" the band write on their web site. The complete track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Intro (not named yet) 02. Warpath 03. Scrutinized 04. Fearless 05. Craving for Another Killing 06. Let the Knife Do the Talking 07. A Thousand Lies 08. Incised Before I've Ceased 09. Blooddrenched 10. Compulsive Psychosis 11. Living to Die
Norwegian black metallers GORGOROTH have posted the following update on their official web site:
"The recordings of the upcoming album, 'Ad Majorem Satanhas Gloriam', progress steadily. Infernus [guitar] and King [bass] have been in a studio in Spydeberg (Norway) for the past weeks where they have recorded bass and guitar. They have brought the tapes back to Bergen and will continue their work in Earshot Studios during this summer."
"Ad Majorem Sathanas Gloriam" is tentatively scheduled for release before the end of the year via Sweden's Regain Records. The band were most recently signed to Nuclear Blast Records, who released the band's last three efforts: "Twilight of the Idols" (2003), "Incipit Satan" (2000) and "Destroyer" (1998).
GORGOROTH last year inked a deal with the French label Season of Mist for the reissues of their first three albums: "Pentagram" (1994), "Antichrist" (1996) and "Under the Sign of Hell" (1997). All three were re-released earlier this year in a remastered, digipack version.
MORBID ANGEL bassist/vocalist David Vincent and GENITORTURERS frontwoman Gen have issued the following plea for help in the case of missing MORBID ANGEL guitarist Tony Norman (ex-MONSTROSITY):
"MORBID ANGEL are scheduled to fly to Portugal this Wednesday for a huge festival. As of today, no one has seen or heard from Tony Norman, MORBID ANGEL's rhythm guitarist, who also used to play in the band MONSTROSITY.
"He was last seen by us at our friends wedding when him and his girlfriend were seated at our table. This was well over a month ago and no one has had contact with him since that we can determine.
"We have contacted many of his friends, parents etc... no one has heard from him We think that he has recently moved within Tampa to a new place… No one seems to know where and none of his phone numbers are working…. so no one at this point is able to reach him.
"At this point David and the rest of the MORBID ANGEL crew are really worried about him as it is not like him to be out of touch. A missing person's report has been filed.
"If you know him or anyone that has contact with him… please help us contact anyone you know who might also know him or his girlfriend."
Nightwish release "Highest Hopes - The Best Of Nightwish" -2cd collection next fall. Here is the confirmed tracklist of that collection:
Wish I Had An Angel / Stargazers / The Kinslayer / Ever Dream / Elvenpath / Bless The Child / Nemo / Sleeping Sun / Dead To The World / Over The Hills And Far Away / Deep Silent Complete / Sacrament Of Wilderness / Walking In The Air / Wishmaster / Dead Boy's Poem / High Hopes – Live
True fans of Fleur will loath for a new CD soon. Label "Prikosnovenie" will release a European version of "Shining" on June, 15th. Another work in the discography and a great exhibit in the famous collection of the group.
The new studio release from progressive metal giants DREAM THEATER, "Octavarium", has entered the national album charts in the following countries:
#2: Finland #4: Sweden #18: France #15: Canada #31: Spain #33: Czech Republic #35: Austria #36: USA #38: Denmark #43: Switzerland #72: U.K.
"Octavarium" is the follow-up to 2003's "Train of Thought", which has shifted 123,086 units in the U.S. to date, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
DREAM THEATER began writing and recording their latest album last November at the Hit Factory studios in New York City. The CD will hold the distinction of being the very last album ever recorded at the world-famous recording facility, which recently closed its doors.
DREAM THEATER are currently touring Europe in support of "Octavarium". The band will co-headline this summer's Gigantour, a six-week North American festival trek also featuring MEGADETH, FEAR FACTORY, THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN and NEVERMORE, among others.
Check out 85 pictures of DREAM THEATER performing in Budapest, Hungary on Tuesday, June 14 at HardRock.hu.
A full DREAM THEATER biography, global discography with chart positions and global gig guide can be found at Rockdetector.com.
Century Media Records will release the new album of ARCH ENEMY - "Doomsday Machine" - on July 26th. The CD was recorded in Slaughterhouse Studio (Sweden) and mixed by Andy Sneap in Backstage Studio (Derbyshire, U.K.). Cover was created by Joachim Luetke (RAGE).
Tracklist: 1. Enter the Machine (intro), 2. Skeleton Dance, 3. My Apocalypse, 4. Carry the Cross, 5. I Am Legend/Out for Blood, 6. Mechanic God Creation, 7. Machtkampf, 8. Slaves of Yesterday, 9. We Are One, 10. Taking Back My Soul, 11. Opium, 12. Hybrids of Steel (instrumental).
Italian melodic power metallers VISION DIVINE, the brainchild of ex-LABYRINTH mastermind Olaf Thörsen, will have their new album, "The Perfect Machine", produced by STRATOVARIUS mainman Timo Tolkki. The follow-up to last year's "Stream of Unconsciousness" will be released in October through Scarlet Records.
In other news, VISION DIVINE's long-awaited DVD, entitled "Stage of Consciousness", has been delayed and is now scheduled for release in August. The band will also take part in the Evolution Festival, set to take July 16 in Brescia, Italy. Also scheduled to appear at the festival are NIGHTWISH, SEBASTIAN BACH, DARK TRANQUILLITY and ENTOMBED, among others.
Norwegian extreme metallers ENSLAVED are planning to perform the entire "Eld" album (originally released in 1997) during their scheduled appearance at the Hole in the Sky festival on August 26 in Bergen, Norway. This will be the first and last time ever for this specific concept, according to a posting on the group's web site.
In other news, ENSLAVED are currently putting the finishing touches on their "Return to Yggdrasil" DVD. The disc will feature the band's May 4 live performance in Bergen and bonus material from the band's European tour, including a band interview. The sound is being handled by Lars Klokkerhaug (who mixed "ISA" and the editing of the footage is being taken care of by Stig "Ese" Eliassen (guitarist of VREID, ENSLAVED's support band on their recent European tour).
ENSLAVED recently won the "Metal Album of the Year" prize at the Norwegian "Grammy" awards, Spellemannprisen, for their latest release, "ISA". The band also received the independent Alarm Award for "Best Metal Album" of 2004.
Belgian death metallers PREJUDICE have finished recording three songs at Excess studios in Rotterdam, Holland for an upcoming split CD with ROTTENNESS (Mexico) and CARNAL DECAY (Switzerland). A sample track, entitled "Terminal", can be heard online at this location (.WMA file). The effort wll be released later in the year via Spain's Grotesque Productions.
PREJUDICE are currently searching "for a new label that can give us what we need to make a decent new CD and do some tours to promote it," the band write on their web site. "We hope to get a better deal this time then the ones we've had in the past."
French thrashcore act DRIFTING BREED will release their debut EP, entitled "Hope Hereafter", on June 20 via Overcome Records. The 22-minute CD contains four tracks and will reportedly "appeal to all fans of thrash metal, death metal and metalcore who enjoy brutality, groove and melody." A preview MP3 is available at the group's official web site, www.driftingbreed.com.
"Hope Hereafter" track listing:
01. Hope Hereafter 02. Almost a Stranger 03. Waste Game 04. Some Reasons to Kill Me
Reunited Swiss avant-garde metallers CELTIC FROST have selected HYPOCRISY/PAIN mainman Peter Tägtgren to co-produce their long-awaited comeback effort, tentatively titled "Dark Matter Manifest". The band willl enter Horus Sound Studio in Hannover, Germany on August 1 to begin recording their first collection of new material since 1990's "Vanity/Nemesis". Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Incantation against You", "Obscured", "Ain Elohim" and "Temple of Depression".
CELTIC FROST, who have been mixing new demo material at Oakland Recording in Winterthur, Switzerland, have yet to secure a record deal for their upcoming CD.
GOD AMONG INSECTS, the Swedish "old-school" death metal band featuring vocalist Emperor Magus Caligula (DARK FUNERAL), guitarist Lord K (a.k.a. Kenth Philipson) (THE PROJECT HATE), bassist Tomas Elofsson (SANCTIFICATION) and drummer Tobias Gustafsson (VOMITORY), will enter Abyss Studios with producer Tommy Tagtgren on August 19 to begin recording their sophomore album, tentatively due in early 2006. "We are dying to start recording this one. It'll be some 10 days of complete insanity for sure," the group write on their web site.
GOD AMONG INSECTS' debut album, "World Wide Death", is available now on Threeman Recordings via Plastic Head Distribution. An MP3 of the album cut "A Gush of Blood" can be downloaded at ' .
WINTERS BANE have finished mixing their new album, "Redivivus", for a late summer release. The drum tracks for the follow-up to 1997's "Girth" were laid down at The Dump studio in the U.K. by former HELLOWEEN/METALIUM drummer Mark Cross with the help of veteran producer Chris Tsangarides (JUDAS PRIEST, THIN LIZZY, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, BRUCE DICKINSON, HELLOWEEN, ANGRA, BLACK SABBATH). The vocals were laid down by German singer Alexander Koch (POWERGOD, SPIRAL TOWER) at Smiley Sound Studio in Akron, Ohio with producer Curran Murphy (ex-NEVERMORE, ANNIHILATOR guitarist).
"Redivivus" track listing (in no particular order):
01. Catching the Sun 02. Despise the Lie 03. Burning Bridges 04. Remember to Forget 05. The World 06. Seal the Light 07. Spark to Flame 08. Fury 09. Dead Faith
Norway's GRIMFIST have set "10 Steps to Hell" as the title of their forthcoming album, tentatively due later in the year. The CD was recorded at SubSonic Society with engineer Lars Klokkerhaug (ENSLAVED, DARKTHRONE, RED HARVEST), mixed at Studio Fredman in Gothenburg, Sweden, and mastered at Tailor Maid Production in Stockholm. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Separation of My Soul", "Unborn", "The Power", "Reap the Fire", "Tools of the Trade", "Fight or Die", "Breed Apart", "Ashes of the Gods", "Touched by a Shadow of Evil", and "On the Wings of a Demon".
DREAM EVIL drummer Snowy Shaw (MEMENTO MORI, NOTRE DAME, KING DIAMOND, MERCYFUL FATE) has posted the following message on the band's official web site:
"First of all: we're awfully sorry for the last months' inactivity. As you all know, due to Niklas' [Isfeldt, vocals] throat problems we've been forced to postpone the recordings of our fourth album for a couple of months as well as cancel all summer festival shows. It stinks, to say the least, but what the hell can we do!? If Niklas ignores the doctors prescriptions it could give him permanent damage and maybe he could never sing again...we don't want that do we?
"Within shortly though, a brand new song called 'Gold Medal in Metal' will be posted here on our site. So don't be a stranger..."
Italian folk/power metal band ELVENKING are currently at Sonic Pump Studios in Finland mixing their third album for a late 2005 release via AFM Records. "Everything's going great as we've nearly finished the first song," the band write on their web site. "Sonic Pump will surely become one the biggest and greatest studios over here and Nino Laurenne [mixer] is a fuckin' nice guy! The coolest thing here is going to sleep at midnight with sun shining!! Fuckin' crazy..."
The follow-up to 2004's "Wyrd" was recorded at the group's own Sherpa Studios. The final mastering will be handled by Mika Jussila at Finnvox in Helsinki. Cover artwork and booklet layout are being designed by Hungarian artist Havancsák Gyula (ANNIHILATOR, GRAVE DIGGER).
ELVENKING recently announced the departure of guitarist Jarpen. For the time being, the group will go on as a five-piece.
Sorcery Studios has made available a new TNT DVD of lost gems entitled "The Collection: Volume 1". Described as "a video retrospective that spans the last 20 years of the band," this collection is a release that is finally being made available after a huge demand by the fans worldwide and is also an attempt at cutting into the illegal selling of the band's material on eBay.
"The Collection: Volume 1" DVD track listing:
Live In Japan:
01. A Nation Free 02. As Far As The Eye Can See 03. Caught Between The Tigers 04. Tonight I'm Falling 05. End Of The Line 06. Intuition 07. 10,000 Lovers 08. Take Me Down (Fallen Angel) 09. Everyone's A Star
Japanese TV Special:
* Band Interviews * The making of the "Intuition" video
"Realized Fantasies" special:
* Band Interviews * "Lionheart" performed live acoustically
Videos:
01. Seven Seas 02. Everyone's A Star 03. 10,000 Lovers (version 1) 04. 10,000 Lovers (version 2) 05. Intuition (version 1) 06. Intuition (version 2) 07. Tonight I'm Falling 08. My Religion
The Swedish black metal band are currently in the Dug-Out Studios in Uppsala, Sweden to record their new album with Daniel Bergstrand (Meshuggah, Strapping Young Lad, In Flames, Behemoth a.s.o.) as producer. Lord Ahriman have posted the following message at the band's official discussion forum:
"I just got back home after being a second week at Dug Out Studios working on the new album. We will return to duty on thusday morning.
The song writings are going better then killer. This week we have completed another 2 songs. So right now we have 5 new songs ready for the new album. 3 more to write and our new Satanic Symphony is completed!
Not relly sure how to explain these 2 new songs other than that they are AMAZING!!! One of them is a "slow" song (no blast beats, only down tempo). And it's filled with so much pain and suffering… It's not anything like "Goddess Of Sodomy". This is pure suffering!!!
It's really hard to put exact words on what the hell we're creating here. But I can promise you one thing. You've never been closer to hell then this!. Be prepared for a HUGE fucking surprise!!!"
Sweden's KATATONIA have entered Fascination Street studio located in the outskirts of Örebro, Sweden to begin recording their new album, tentatively due before the end of the year via Peaceville Records. "This is the same studio as 'Viva Emptiness' [2003] was mixed in last time," the band write on their web site. " Songtitles, album title and final track listing to be revealed in a future update, so keep checking back as we'll give you a report + pics on the progress as we move along." Check out a couple of photos from the recording sessions at http://katatonia.com/newsmid.html
Sweden's OPETH have set "Ghost Reveries" as the title of their new album, tentatively due late summer via Roadrunner Records. The follow-up to 2003's acoustic masterpiece, "Damnation", and OPETH's first disc in years without producer Steve Wilson, the album will include the following tracks, among others: "Ghost of Tradition", "The Baying of the Hounds" and "Isolation Years".
OPETH will be embarking on the "Sounds of the Underground" tour in the U.S. beginning in late June. A European headlining tour will follow in September. A complete list of currently confirmed tour dates can be found at'
German power metallers HELLOWEEN have reportedly set "Keeper of the Seven Keys - The Legacy" as the title of their new album, due on October 31 via SPV Records. A single, "Mrs. God", will precede the album by several weeks. Apart from the title track, the single will contain various bonus features such as an exclusive non-album track, one album cut and the video for "Mrs. God".
HELLOWEEN, who recently replaced drummer Stefan Schwarzmann with former RAWHEAD REXX skinsman Dani Löble.
HELLOWEEN's world tour in support of the new album, dubbed "Keeper of the Seven Keys - The Legacy World Tour 2005/2006" will kick off in late November
DESTRUCTION have confirmed that they have tapped nne diferent world-renowned metal singers from all different heavy metal styles to make a guest appearance in their track "The Alliance of Hellhoundz", to be included on "Inventor of Evil", due on August 15 via AFM Records. The confirmed guest musicians are as follows:
Biff Byford (SAXON) Doro Pesch Shagrath (DIMMU BORGIR) Björn "Speed" Strid (SOILWORK) Paul Di'Anno (ex-IRON MAIDEN, KILLERS) Messiah Marcolin (CANDLEMASS) Mark Osegueda (DEATH ANGEL) Peter "Peavy" Wagner (RAGE) Peter Tägtgren (HYPOCRISY, PAIN)
Commented DESTRUCTION bassist/vocalist Marcel "Schmier" Schirmer, "The all-star song 'The Alliance of Hellhoundz' will make metal history: from Paul Di'Anno to Messiah, we'll have the best metal singers in ONE fuckin' song!"
DESTRUCTION are currently recording "Inventor of Evil" with producer Peter Tätgtren (HYPOCRISY, PAIN), V.O. Pulver (GURD) and their live engineer Franky Winkelmann at studios in Germany and Switzerland. The mix will be done by Tätgtren at the Abyss Studios in Sweden.
German power metallers GAMMA RAY have posted the following message on their official web site:
"On June 1st and 2nd, GAMMA RAY were shooting fotos for the new album, 'Majestic'. The photos were taken by the well-known photographer Stefan Malzkorn. The location for the first day was the studio of German comedian Dirk Bielefeld, also known as 'Mr. Holm'. The band was dressed in black with golden instruments. For the second day, the location was the big festival room of Atlantic Hotel Hamburg to provide a real majestic atmosphere. The cover artwork by Herve has also been finished, only some slight changes still have to be done by Henjo."
GAMMA RAY recently completed work on their new album, "Majestic", at Hansen Studios in Hamburg, Germany. Mastering duties were handled at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Finland by Mikko Karmila and Kai Hansen. The follow-up to 2001's "No World Order" includes 11 tracks which represent "all of the characteristic strengths of the band's musical career to date," the group write on their web site. A late September release is expected.
German power metallers GRAVE DIGGER filmed their "25-Year Anniversary" show on May 7 at the TV Direct Music Hall in Sao Paulo, Brazil for an upcoming live CD/DVD, tentatively due October 17. The group's setlist was as follows:
01. Intro: Passion 02. The Last Supper 03. Desert Rose 04. The Grave Dancer 05. Shoot Her Down 06. The Reaper 07. Paradise 08. Excalibur 09. The House 10. Circle of Witches 11. Valhalla 12. Son of Evil 13. The Battle of Bannockburn 14. The Curse of Jacques 15. Grave in the No Man' Land 16. Yesterday 17. Morgane Lefay 18. Symphony of Death 19. Witchhunter 20. The Dark of the Sun 21. Knights of the Cross 22. Twilight of the Gods Encore #1: 23. Rebellion 24. The Grave Digger Encore #2: 25. Rheingold 26. The Round Table 27. Heavy Metal Breakdown
Italian "extreme epic metal" act STORMLORD have parted ways with keyboardist Simone Scazzocchio. "There were no discussions or troubles with him, he was simply not interested in playing metal music anymore," the band write in a press release. "Our split has been friendly, we kept good relations and we wish him the best.
"After some months of auditions, now we are glad to introduce you Luca Bellanova, that's the new keyboard player of STORMLORD! Luca is 20 years old and a really talented musician, as well as a big fan of STORMLORD. He made his first appearance with the group at the recent show in Bergamo."
STORMLORD are currently writing the material for their fourth album, tentatively due in late 2006 via Scarlet Records. The follow-up to last year's "The Gorgon Cult" will feature a "much more epic direction" than that on its predecessor, "but with the same high skill quality level," according to the press release.
Keith Fay (vocals, electric guitar, acoustic guitar, keyboards) of the Irish folk metal band CRUACHAN has posted the following message on the group's official web site:
"I am delighted to announce that the Father of Folk Metal, Martin Walkyier, will be doing guest vocals for one track on our next album. I am a huge fan of Martin's since early SABBAT and SKYCLAD so for me this is a huge honour."
CRUACHAN recently parted ways with Karmageddon Media. The group's final release for the label will be a reissue of their 1994 "Celtica" demo, featuring unreleased tracks, including "Timmy", which has been performed live at quite a few CRUACHAN shows.
CRUACHAN will embark on the European "Pagan Invasion Tour 2005" beginning in mid-September. A list of the confirmed tour dates can be found at this location.
SOULFLY have finalzed the track listing for their new album, "Dark Ages", due on September 13 via Roadrunner Records.
"Dark Ages" was produced by SOULFLY mainman Max Cavalera and was mixed by Terry Date, who has previously worked with PANTERA and DEFTONES, among others.
"Dark Ages" final track listing:
01. The Dark Ages 02. Babylon 03. I And I 04. Carved Inside 05. Arise Again 06. Frontlines 07. Inner Spirit 08. Corrosion Creeps 09. Molotov 10. Riot Starter 11. Bleak 12. (The) March 13. Fuel The Hate 14. Stay Strong 15. Soulfly V
U.D.O., the German band led by former ACCEPT frontman Udo Dirkschneider, will release their new album, "Mission No. X", on October 4 via AFM Records. The complete track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Mission No. X 02. 24/7 03. Mean Streets 04. Primecrime On Primetime 05. Eye Of The Eagle 06. Shell Shock Fever 07. Stone Hard 08. Breaking Down The Border 09. Cry Soldier Cry 10. Way Of Life 11. Mad For Crazy
A single/EP, "24/7", will precede the album on June 27. The track listing for the single is as follows:
01. 24/7 (' clip) 02. Mean Streets (' clip) 03. Scream Killers (' clip) 04. Number For A Number (' clip)
The follow-up to 2004's "Thunderball", "Mission No. X" marks the recording debut with the group of new drummer Francesco Jovino. Jovino joined the band last year as the permanent replacement for Lorenzo Milani, who left the group for "personal reasons." A world tour in support of the album will kick off in January 2006.
AMORPHIS guitarist Esa Holopainen has posted the following message on the band's official web site:
"We've been rehearsing intensively past two months now and the songs start to get their final shape. There's still couple tracks which need to be rehearsed but basically the songs are ready and the band is more motivated than ever. Tomi Joutsen [new singer] has brought so much new energy for us and the tour we did in U.S. on March united us a a real AMORPHIS 2005. We were really happy to see how people welcomed Tomi as a new AMORPHIS singer, he was a 'bit' nervous before the tour but the reaction and support we got helped him to make AMORPHIS sound like a never before.
"So, the recordings will take place at 1st of July at Sonic Pump studios in Helsinki and takes time till somewhere in August. Mikko Karmila is starting the mixing at September 1st at Finnvox. Let's see if guys get their studio ready till the 1st of July as it still looks like a construction area. New Sonic Pump is going to be really cool. It can't be bad studio if you have sea view and sauna.
Sweden's DARK TRANQUILLITY have uploaded several screenshots from their recently filmed "The New Build" video at ' . As previously reported, the clip was shot by director Roger Johansson, who followed the band on their European tour in February/March and gathered some live footage. The full video will be released in the next few weeks.
"The New Build" comes off the group's latest CD, "Character", available now on Century Media Records.
British extreme metallers CRADLE OF FILTH have parted ways with longtime keyboardist Martin Foul (Powell). Martin's official statement detailing the reasons for his decision reads as follows:
"Due to pressing personal reasons I have found myself unable to commit my best efforts and time to CRADLE OF FILTH. Despite five great years, [during] which I have achieved along with my colleagues (past and present) a myriad of goals and dreams, I have decided to bow out from CRADLE. Having played and written music with three greats of English metal (CRADLE OF FILTH, MY DYING BRIDE and ANATHEMA) I am certainly not giving up music in any respect but just need time away from the rigors of being part of a such a time consuming entity as CRADLE OF FILTH is. I shall endeavour to pursue and perhaps release my own music whenever I am blessed with the time and inclination to do so. I should like to thank CRADLE fans and friends the world over for making my time with CRADLE OF FILTH incredibly enjoyable and memorable. I look forward to people hearing from me in the not-too-distant future."
The rest of the band have issued the following statement regarding the recent and upcoming events in the group's camp:
"The feeling in the CRADLE camp of course is one of profound loss, though a resounding and heartfelt 'all the best for the future' accompanies this recent and unexpected personal turn of events. Obviously this leaves an opening for a replacement CRADLE keyboardist, so if there is anyone out there who bares an iota of interest in joining the ranks of the 'FILTH, then please feel free to send musical material and accompanying photographic/background information to the management email address as printed on the inside of the recent 'Nymphetamine' release. Anybody of any colour, creed or stature is welcome though 'Phantom of the Opera'-esque mannerisms and creepy facial mask will definitely count in your favour. Note: This will not affect the recently announced U.K. tour dates in December!
"On the positive side however, is the very welcome news that former bassist Dave 'Herr Pubis' Pybus has now taken on the somewhat daunting task of webmaster for the CRADLE OF FILTH official website, a challenge that sits perfectly alongside Dave's current preoccupation with the recently formed Sixsixsix Records label. So, from everybody involved with the band, a warm and very grateful welcome back.
"In a similar vein, Dave is also accompanying the band to undertake the forthcoming 'Viva La Bam' MTV2 television performance in the U.S sometime in June, when the band will feature in a full-length episode culminating in a live performance of 'Nemesis' atop a multi-story parking lot somewhere in Philadelphia. This however does not exclude new bass player Charles Hedger, who has been helping write toward the new album in the recent rehearsal room sessions at Springvale. So far tentative titles for the new material are as follows; 'The Flora of Nightfall, The Fauna of War', 'Devil to the Metal' and 'Cemetery and Sundown'. The band are expecting to be back in the studio in the autumn with a wistful release date of February 2006, though as mentioned elsewhere, the 'Gospel Of Filth' printed foray in to the darkside will be out in shops around Halloween as too will the forthcoming band DVD, recently shot over two nights in Paris and as yet untitled."
AGORAPHOBIC NOSEBLEED have set an August 2 U.S. release date (Aug. 8 in Europe) for their collection of early recordings. Titled "Bestial Machinery: The Collected ANb Discography Volume 1", the two-CD release will include all of AGORAPHOBIC's recorded material prior to their Relapse debut, "Honkey Reduction". The collection will contain the much-sought-after "30-song 7"/demo", long-out-of-print vinyl splits with acts such as CATTLEPRESS, LACERATION and ENEMY SOIL, amongst others, and a plethora of unreleased material. Cover artwork by Florian Bertmer (AGORAPHOBIC NOSEBLEED/CONVERGE split, THE LOCUST) and layout/design from Orion Landau (HIGH ON FIRE, NILE, CEPHALIC CARNAGE) will also be included.
Century Media Records has set a September 20 release date for the new GOD FORBID album, entitled "IV: Constitution of Treason".
The follow-up to "Gone Forever" is being produced by Eric Rachel (ATREYU, THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN, EVERY TIME I DIE) at Trax East and Jason Suecof (TRIVIUM) at Audiohammer Studios.
HOLY MOSES' new album, "Strength Power Will Passion" (Armageddon Music/Soulfood), will be released on May 30 — one week later than its originally announced May 23 release date. The delay is being attributed to "problems in the CD factory." 666 limited vinyl picture discs will include a bonus track, while 5,000 limited digipacks contain a poster booklet and a bonus track.
The band reportedly laid down 22 songs and over 80 minutes of music at their Absurd studio in Hamburg for their tenth album, which is the follow-up to 2002's "Disorder of the Order" (Century Media Records). Streaming audio samples of all the album cuts are now available at the band's official web site, HolyMoses.de. A CD-release party will take place on Saturday, May 21 in Hamburg.
Metal Temple magazine recently conducted an interview with SUIDAKRA vocalist/guitarist Arkadius. An excerpt from the interview follows:
Metal Temple: Can you tell us what happened with Century Media [Records]?
Arkadius: "Yes, of course. As I have mentioned before there were several problems with the promotion the label did for us. Our first album for them back in 2001, 'Emprise to Avalon', was actually not promoted at all. Still, the press sent a very positive feedback. At that time period we thought that this had something to do with the fact that this was actually our first album with them. So when the release of 'Signs of the Fallen' took place we expected their support 100 percent. The press was satisfied with this album but still there was almost no promotion at all.
"To make a long story short, when we started recording the new album, we met with the company and they told us that they don't really like our new sound. They wanted us to play exactly like our previous albums. Why do that? To get no promotion at all, again? There was no reason to continue with the label."
Italy's THY MAJESTIE have finished recording their new album, provisionally titled "Jean D'Arc", for a tentative September release via Scarlet Records. The band, who recently announced the addition of singer Giulio Di Gregorio (IRENCROS) to the group's ranks, cancelled a couple of festival appearances earlier in the year. The group's last studio album, "Hastings 1066", was released in 2002.
After taking some time off to attend to things outside of the band, Ordodruin are ready to return to the scene. They have started writing new material and have gigs planned for this summer, including the Templars of Doom Fest-the Second Crusade which is on the 8th and 9th of July in Indianapolis, IN. Check www.templarsofdoom.com for details.
Vanden Plas-Frontmann Andy Kuntz hit the bull's eye: In February next year the Kaiserslautern Pfalztheatre will bring his rock opera ABYDOS to the stage for a complete season. The "Heavy Mental Shadow Opera" about the crazy experiences of a boy called Fly will be an official cultural contribution to the Soccer World Cup. Vanden Plas and a choir with orchestra will take over the musical direction. Kuntz himself will play the main part of Fly. Kaiserslautern will be one of the locations of the World Cup, and is the home town of Andy Kuntz.
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EVERGREY are releasing their live DVD "A Night To Remember" on May 23rd. The double set with 5.1 mix will complement the already released double CD and offer extensive bonus material. At the moment the Swedish prog metal band is touring in Europe. They are playing several shows as special guests of James LaBrie and a few more gigs as headliners. In order to promote the DVD release there will be show cases with video presentations, acoustic gigs, and autograph sessions in Bochum (May 4th), Hellendorn (NL, May 6th), and Madrid (ESP, May 10th). Media partners are welcome.
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"Hi, this is Neal Morse. I hope you enjoy 'Testimony live' on Bible TV". No late April-fool joke but a fact: Bible TV, to be received in Europe via satellite, will broadcast a complete NEAL MORSE concert from his "Testimony" tour 2003. Recently divorced from Spock's Beard, Morse performed not only his complete "Testimony" album which is characterized by Christian self-discovery but of course a few Beard evergreens, too. Broadcasting date: Friday, June 24th, 8.15pm. Hallelujah!
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InsideOut's new sublabel REVISITED RECORDS continues the new edition of the KLAUS SCHULZE backcatalogue in June with the albums "Audentity", "Body Love", "Dune", and "Miditerranean Pads" fort. Also planned for a June release are Amon Düül II's milestones "Phallus Dei", "Tanz der Lemminge", and "Yeti" as well as the "BBC Recordings". Already by the end of May a KRAAN reissue series is launched with "Wiederhören", "Nachtfahrt", and "Live 88".
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Kurt Vanderhoof, at the moment starting with his new band PRESTO BALLET on InsideOut Music, is quite busy: on June 2nd an extensive European tour will start with his main combo Metal Church; so far confirmed are gigs in Belgium, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Netherlands, and in Switzerland. You can find details under ' . In all cities Vanderhoof can also be interviewed regarding his Presto Ballet debut. "Peace Among The Ruins" will be released on June 6th.
A new signing on InsideOut Music are the SPIRITUAL BEGGARS. So far generally categorized in the Stoner Rock genre, Michael Amott (aka Arch Enemy) and his men wanted to be regarded as "Classic Rock". Those who listen to their new album "Demons" will immediately understand why: Dio, Mountain, Purple, but also Govt. Mule and Lynyrd Skynyrd are sending their regards! "Demons" will be out on June 20th, there will be also a special edition including a live CD as bonus.
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NEW RELEASES / InsideOut Music
AYREON: "Come Back To Me" (CD single), RELEASE: June 13th EVERGREY: "A Night To Remember" (live DVD), RELEASE: May 23rd KAIPA: "Mindrevolutions", RELEASE: May 30th 2005 PRESTO BALLET: "Peace Among The Ruins", RELEASE: June 6th 2005 SHADOW GALLERY: "Room V", RELEASE: May 30th 2005
STILL CURRENT / InsideOut Music
RUSSELL ALLEN: "Russell Allen's Atomic Soul", RELEASE: April 25th 2005 JAMES LaBRIE: ""Elements Of Persuasion", RELEASE: March 29th 2005 MAGELLAN: "Symphony For A Misanthrope", RELEASE: April 18th 2005 PAIN OF SALVATION: "Be Live" (CD & DVD), RELEASE: April 18th 2005
IN PREPARATION / InsideOut Music
TOMAS BODIN: "I Am", RELEASE: June 27th 2005 STEVE HOWE: "Spectrum", RELEASE: June 27th SPIRITUAL BEGGARS: "Demons", RELEASE: June 20th 2005
"Christmas" comes off the group's new album, "Blood Inside", due in the U.S. on July 12 via The End (June 6 in Europe).
"Blood Inside" track listing:
01. Dressed In Black 02. For the Love of God 03. Christmas 04. Blinded by Blood 05. It Is Not Sound 06. The Truth 07. In the Red 08. Your Call 09. Operator
ULVER's video for the track "It Is Not Sound" has been posted online at The End Records' web site. Download it at this location (Quicktime, 55 MB).
Reactivated Swedish death metallers DISSECTION entered the studio on February 2 to begin recording their long-awaited third album, the group's first release since 1995's classic album "Storm of the Light's Bane". The recording is taking place at Black Syndicate Studios in Stockholm, Sweden, with DISSECTION mainman Jon Nödtveidt's brother Emil Nödtveidt (a.k.a. THE DEATHSTARS' Nightmare Industries) and Skinny Kangur behind the wheels. Eleven songs are being recorded for the album and the material is being regarded by the band as "a work of sonic black magic, actively channelling the anti-cosmic current 218."
DISSECTION are currently in negotiations with several labels for the upcoming release (which is planned for the fall 2005), but the recordings are being completely financed by the band itself independent of any record company. A final decision about the group's new label home is expected to be made soon.
Late last year, DISSECTION released their comeback single/EP, "Maha Kali", via Escapi Music/Screaming Ferret Wreckords. Armed with a fresh lineup, consisting of mainman Jon Nödtveidt (vocals and guitar), Set Teitan (guitar, ABORYM, BLOODLINE), Brice Leclercq (bass guitar, NIGHTRAGE) and Thomas Asklund (drums, DARK FUNERAL, INFERNAL, DAWN), DISSECTION describe the new CD as "a hymn to the wrathful black Hindu goddess of Mahapralaya, the great dissolution of cosmos, Jai Maha Kali!"
Upcoming DISSECTION shows:
Jun. 03 - Aarhus Rock Festival, DEN Jun. 05 - Tradate Iron Fest, ITA Jun. 10 - Undead Festival, HUN Jun. 24 - Nummirock Festival, FIN Jun. 25 - Fury Fest, FRA Jun. 26 - Metal Camp, SLO Jul. 15 - Kaltenbach Open Air, AUT Jul. 23 - Open Hell Fest, CZR Aug. 06 - Wacken Open Air, GER Aug. 19 - Jalometalli Festival, FIN
On May 11, 2005 veterans of Russian metal scene GRENOUER released new EP entitled "T R Y" comprised of three tracks mixed by "sixth Children Of Bodom member" Anssi Kippo at ASTIA Studios and multimedia section.
Tracklisting:
GRENOUER _ t r y 1. Devil's Eye 2. All Along The Runway 3. Powdering Squeeze
"T R Y" would be represented in tours along CIS states. Full length album is estimated to be recorded in winter' 2006.
According to EMI Spain, IRON MAIDEN are contemplating the release of "The Trooper" CD single to launch their upcoming "Eddie Rips Up The World Tour". The single may also serve as the promo single for the forthcoming "Death on the Road" DVD/CD, to be released on August 29.
IRON MAIDEN's "Death On The Road" double DVD and album will feature a live performance filmed at the Westfalenhalle Arena, Dortmund, Germany during the "Dance of Death" European tour in December 2003.
CANDLEMASS' brand-new self-titled album has entered the Swedish national album chart at position No. 7. The CD also came in at No. 5 on the Sweden chart (featuring only Swedish artists) and at No. 1 on the Hard Rock/Metal chart.
CANDLEMASS celebrated the release of the album with a free hometown show on April 27 at O-Baren in Stockholm, Sweden.
Roadrunner Records U.K. has revealed that the new OBITUARY CD will now carry the title "Frozen In Time". The complete track listing for the album is as follows:
01. Redneck Stomp 02. On the Floor 03. Insane 04. Blindsided 05. Back Inside 06. Mindset 07. Stand Alone 08. Slow Death 09. Denied 10. Lockjaw
Download the track "Insane" at Roadrun.com.
"Frozen In Time" is tentatively scheduled for release on July 12 (one day earlier internationally). The group's first collection of new songs since 1997
Original METAL CHURCH frontman David Wayne has passed away. He was 47 years old. David died due to complications from injuries he sustained in a head-on automobile accident several months ago. Wayne sang on METAL CHURCH's first two classic offerings (1984's "Metal Church" and 1986's "The Dark") before leaving the group and being replaced by Mike Howe.
Gorgoroth guitarist Infernus (real name: Roger Tiegs) was sentenced in a Norwegian court to three years in prison for rape. The incident happened April 27, 2004 when Tiegs, 34, and a friend, 32, brought a 29-year-old woman they met at a nightclub called Garage in Bergen back to Tiegs' appartment after closing hours. The two men allegedly punched the woman in the face and forced her to have sex with them. The defendants admitted that they had sex with the woman, but claimed it was consensual.
Tiegs and his friend, whose name has not been disclosed by the media, were each ordered to pay 100,000 NOK (approximately $16,000) in court costs and an additional 55,000 NOK (approximately $9,000) in punitive damages.
Both men have appealed the verdict.
The 29-year-old, whose real name has not been revealed by the Norwegian media, was charged with a crime that carries a maximum penalty of nine years in prison.
In February 2005, Gorgoroth frontman Gaahl was sentenced to 14 months in prison for beating a 41-year-old man and threatening to drink his blood.
Audio samples of two tracks from the forthcoming ROYAL HUNT album, entitled "Paper Blood", have been posted online at the group's official web site. Check out the songs "Paper Blood" and "Not my Kind" at ' .
As previously reported, Frontiers Records has set a June 6 European release date for "Paper Blood".
The follow-up to 2003's "Eyewitness", "Paper Blood" was recorded at North Point studio in Copenhagen and was mixed at EMI/Medley Studio in Copenhagen with Andre' Andersen (keyboards) and Lars Overgaard behind the board.
"Paper Blood" (view cover ' ) track listing:
01. Break Your Chains 02. Not My Kind 03. Memory Lane 04. Never Give Up 05. Seven Days 06. SK 983 07. Kiss Of Faith 08. Paper Blood 09. Season’s Change 10. Twice Around The World
Drummer Erik Sayenga has left DYING FETUS "due to circumstances beyond his control," according to an official statement.
Commented Erik: "DYING FETUS are a great band and I want to thank the other members of FETUS, the cool people we have met on the road and all the fans for the good times.I am unable to continue playing in this band but I wish DYING FETUS all the best of luck in all they do."
In other news, Erik's new project WARTHRONE will begin recording their debut five-song EP soon. Joining Sayenga in the black/death-inspired project are Richard Johnson (ex-WITCH-HUNT, SANGUINARY) on vocals, and Kristel (ex-WITCH-HUNT, DARK PURITY) on keyboards and bass.
Reunited '80s Thrash band ROTTING CORPSE, whose original lineup included current SOLITUDE AETURNUS mainman John Perez and former DEATH touring guitarist/roadie Walter Trachsler, have announced their first comeback show. The group will be performing at Division One in Arlington, Texas on May 28.
ROTTING CORPSE are planning on releasing all their demos on one CD. No further details are currently available.
CANDLEMASS's video for the track "Black Dwarf" has been posted online at ' (Real player required).
"Black Dwarf" comes off the reunited Swedish doomsters' comeback album, "Candlemass", which was released earlier this week via Nuclear Blast Records.
"Candlemass" was recorded in part at Polar studios (ABBA, GENESIS, LED ZEPPELIN) in Stockholm, Sweden and is said to be musically similar to the group's classic "Tales of Creation" and "Nightfall" albums.
SLAYER guitarist Kerry King will take part in an online chat on Saturday, May 14 at 12:00 p.m. PST at ' . Those who participate in the chat will also have a chance to win a Kerry King War Tribe Pack after the chat.
SLAYER will be making a number of European festival appearances this summer beginning with the Festimad on May 27 in Fuenlabrada, Spain. The group's follow-up to 2001's "God Hates Us All" is expected to surface before the end of the year.
The second album of Italy's most brutal band HOUR OF PENANCE if finished!! "Pageantry For Martyrs" is the sophomore release of this incredible outfit that already impressed the scene with their debut album "Disturbance" in 2003 which got nothing but excellent reviews everywhere. This new album has a superb production and shows a more intense, brutal and mature band that definitely stablish their name in the scene and will be specially appreciated by fans of bands like HATE ETERNAL, NILE and SUFFOCATION.
"Pageantry For Martyrs" includes the following tracks:
01. Towards Our Storm 02. Shreds Of Martyr 03. End Of Relief 04. Celebrating Collective Terror 05. Far Beyond Humiliation 06. Life In A Pain Amplifier 07. Exiled Innocence 08. Naked Knife Absolution 09. Deranged Parasite 10. Egomanisch
Sanctuary Records has set a September 5 release date for the new self-titled album from Finnish melodic metallers STRATOVARIUS. The track listing for the effort is as follows:
01. Maniac Dance 02. Fight 03. Just Carry On 04. Back To Madness 05. Gypsy In Me 06. Götterdämmerung (Zenith of Power) 07. The Land of Ice and Snow 08. Leave The Tribe 09. United
A video for the album's first single, "Maniac Dance", was shot on April 15 in Helsinki by director and guitarist Timo Tolkki's old schoolmate Antti Jokinen (BEYONCÉ, WYCLEF JEAN, KORN, MISSY ELLIOT, NIGHTWISH, SHANIA TWAIN, CELINE DION). A photo from the video shoot can be found at this location.
STRATOVARIUS will be teaming up with INTO ETERNITY for a North American tour beginning in mid-September.
Finnish metallers PAIN CONFESSOR have posted the following message on their official web site:
"PAIN CONFESSOR has been downright busy with writing new material for the upcoming second full-length. We have a ton of new tunes coming along very nicely. Plan is to go and get the album recorded in September. Release will inevitably be situated somewhere in the first half of 2006. Some working titles: 'Powderburns', 'Pathetic Little Soul', 'Life Keeps Bleeding', 'Butterfly', 'Another Door', 'Feardom', 'Nemesis' and plentitude of yet unnamed ones."
AFTER FOREVER drummer André Borgman, who was diagnosed with cancer earlier in the year, has posted the following message on the group's official web site:
"To all my supporting fans, band, crew, friends..,…
"This has been a very difficult period for me, but I finally can make you happy with some very good news. Last Friday I had to go to the hospital for some x-rays of my longues to see if the chemo had done its job. I couldn't be more happy with the result of the photos: they came out almost clean!! On the 11th of May they are going to do a total body scan to see if the little spots on the photo are still cancer and if an operation is needed.
"Thanks for all your great support, cards, videos, cds etc. I couldn’t have done it without your help."
AFTER FOREVER recently spent time at the Gate Studio in Wolfsburg, Germany recording their fourth full-length album, "Remagine". The group's latest album, "Invisible Circles", was released in March 2004 through Transmission Records. "Invisible Circles" is the follow-up to "Decipher", which was issued in 2001.
The first performance took place on April, 23 in Kyiv, in favourite and well known among the youth club, «STORE 205». As guys from CHECKa say: «Good organisation, sound and nice public – that’s all that musicians need for full satisfaction». All that was present in the club.
Musicians were on top! They were surprised of people, who were on session, sang their songs: «Potseluyu”, «Ne Vse», «Samoe X.M.”, «V Plen, a Ya?», and some others. Special surprise was the performing of two compositions from cartoons: «Oblaka» and «Goluboy Vagon».
There were also represantives of Hit-TV channel at the concert.
Now band’s in Kahovka, on the biggest Ukrainian , music festival “Tavriyski Games” (May, 1-3). Good Luck!
Swedish thrashers DARKANE have posted the following message on their official web site:
"' is the 'Layers of Lies' cover artwork, made by Fredrik Ödman.
"The album will be released June 27th in Europe and July 12th in North America.
"DARKANE are taking a break from everything right now. Peter [Wildoer, drums] and Christofer [Malmström, guitar] were at the Nuclear Blast HQ in Germany last weekend to meet with some European press and let them hear the new record. The overall impression was very positive!
"Right now Klas [Ideberg, guitar] is recording the third album with TERROR 2000 and Christofer is recording his solo project NON-HUMAN LEVEL."
"Layers of Lies" track listing:
01. Amnesia of the Wildoerian Apocalypse 02. Secondary Effects 03. Organic Canvas 04. Fading Dimensions 05. Layers of Lies 06. Godforsaken Universe 07. Klastrophobic Hibernation 08. Vision of Degradation 09. Contaminated 10. Maelstrom Crisis 11. Decadent Messiah 12. The Creation Insane
The Japanese version of the CD will contain a bonus track, entitled "Subliminal Seduction".
SIX FEET UNDER's video for the track "Shadow of the Reaper" has been posted online at ' .
Frontman Chris Barnes had previously stated about the video:
"The video for 'Shadow of the Reaper' was directed by Gary Smithson who has also directed videos for bands such as GOATWHORE, THE EAGLES OF DEATH METAL (QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE side project), and HIGH ON FIRE.
"We filmed the video for 'Shadow of the Reaper' on Saturday, January 8th right in the middle of the flooding heart of Hollywood, CA. The video has a real eerie ghostlike quality — just filming the scenes we did scared the hell out of me. It was like being in the middle of one of Dario Argento's nightmares; I can't wait for the finished product.
"Two of the actors featured in the video, Meagan Crawford (from the new Wes Craven film 'Cursed'), and Aaron Kinser ('Fat Albert', 'Art School Confidential') did a great job with their scenes."
"Shadow of the Reaper" comes off SIX FEET UNDER's latest album, "13", available now on Metal Blade Records. The follow-up to "Bringer of Blood" was recorded at Morrisound studios and was mixed at the Hit Factory in Florida.
Friends! We are glad to inform you all that GOREFEST have signed a multi album deal with NUCLEAR BLAST RECORDS. It is turning out to be a pretty amazing year for us, first of all getting back together again and now getting back to the worlds leading metal label! Feels good! We are currently writing songs for what seems to become a very heavy new album. Expect it at a record shop near you towards the end of the year. We hope to see you all out there at the festivals this summer!
THE GATHERING drummer Hans Rutten has issued the following update:
"The sessions/concerts we will play in Paradiso [in Amsterdam] the 23rd of May will be recorded for a DVD release end of the summer 2005. The title will be 'A Sound Relief' and will focus on the more quiet songs of 15 years THE GATHERING. In 2006 we will work on a more Rock-orientated concert DVD, which will be called 'A Noise Severe'. In between both releases we will work on a new album, no title yet. But first of all, 'A Sound Relief'!"
THE GATHERING are expected to record their new album in the fall with producer Attie Bauw (who worked with the group on their "How to Measure a Planet?" CD). An early 2006 release is expected.
CANNIBAL CORPSE are scheduled to enter Mana Studios in Tampa, Florida in October with producer Erik Rutan (MORBID ANGEL, HATE ETERNAL) to begin recording their new album, tentatively due in early 2006 via Metal Blade Records. "We have only one upcoming concert, and that is the Party.San Open Air festival in Germany on August 13", said bassist Alex Webster. "Other than that, we have no plans for any live performances for the rest of 2005."
CANNIBAL CORPSE have yet to announce a permanent replacement for guitarist Jack Owen, who left the band last summer. The group have been utilizing session musicians for their recent touring activities, including Jeremy Turner (ex-ORIGIN) during The Wretched Spawn tour in 2004, and Rob Barrett (who played with the band from 1993 to 1997 and appeared on "The Bleeding" and "Vile" albums), who assisted the group during their recent Northwest Death Fest appearance in Seattle.
Sweden's DARK TRANQUILLITY have posted the following message on their official web site:
"We just got to see the final version of the 'The New Build' clip and are really pleased with how it all turned out. As previously reported, director Roger Johansson joined us for 5-6 dates of the European tour, filming the performances in London, Paris and Barcelona among others, and the end result is an intense and fast video giving a good impression of the DARK TRANQUILLITY live experience as well as showing some backstage antics.
"The clip is being sent out to the usual stations as we speak, so you will all be able to see it soon."
Former THE CLAN DESTINED/IMMORTAL bassist Iscariah (ex-IMMORTAL) has issued a statement regarding THE CLAN DESTINED singer Martin Walkyier's (ex-SKYCLAD) apparent decision to utilize the group's recently recorded mini-CD despite being the sole remaining member of the group. Iscariah's statement reads as follows:
"Martin Walkyier has the legal right to use the recordings for the upcoming THE CLAN DESTINED MCD. This is how the 'rules' of the industry work even though music and lyrics are divided on two separate individuals. We are both allowed to use the songs in our each future projects. We (the new band which will follow from this) want to move on & put this behind us. We have 9 new songs which are ready for recording and will be announced soon with a new full lineup and new band name. Despite all this, we wish Martin the best of luck for the future & hope he will succeed."
VIRGIN STEELE's official web site has been updated with the following message:
"David DeFeis [vocals] has finally decided which songs will be issued on the first [new VIRGIN STEELE] CD from out of the over 60 compositions he has prepared so far. And not only that, but the group is actually now officially halfway through capturing the first 20 on tape. Sessions are going extraordinarily well, and the group is hoping for a much sooner...rather than a much later release. We will keep you informed, as the information comes our way. I have also heard rumors about a 'making of' short video documentary that is in the works!"
Members of LOST HORIZON/LUCIFERION (Sweden), FOREST OF IMPALED (USA) and DAMNATION (Poland) have teamed up in a brand new death/mystery/”black" formation with a base in Chicago. No band name has yet been chosen, but the group's initial recordings are already underway, with sessions taking place in the U.S. and Sweden. The band, who have completed four songs thus far, are currently seeking a vocalist to round out the project.
Swedish metallers SATARIEL have finished mixing their third album, "Hydra", for a late June release via Cold/Regain Records. The group, whose music is being described as "a mix between CANDLEMASS and early IN FLAMES," recorded the CD at Dug-Out studios in Uppsala, Sweden with producers Daniel Bergstrand (MESHUGGAH, IN FLAMES, STUCK MOJO) and Örjan Örnkloo (MISERY LOVES CO.).
SATARIEL released their sophomore CD, "Phobos & Deimos", in 2002 through the now-defunct Dutch label Hammerheart Records.
Dutch thrashers OCCULT have uploaded their video for the track "Bleed for Me" at their ' .
"Bleed for Me" comes off the group's sixth album, "Malevolent Rapture", available now on Holland's Karmageddon Media (formerly Hammerheart Records). The follow-up to this year's "Elegy for the Weak" was recorded at Stage One studios in Borgentreich, Germany with producer Andy Classen (DEW-SCENTED, CALLENISH CIRCLE, TANKARD).
Finnish melodic death/doom metallers SWALLOW THE SUN have entered the Finnish single chart at position No. 4 with their latest single, "Forgive Her" (Firebox Records). In addition to the nine-minute title track, the single features a cover version of the CANDLEMASS classic "Solitude", with Magister Albert from REVEREND BIZARRE on vocals.
"Forgive Her" comes off SWALLOW THE SUN's as-yet-untitled second album, due on August 24 via Firebox Records. Two different versions of the album will be available; a standard release and a special two-CD version featuring the stylish video "Descending Winters" as well as possible live footage.
SWALLOW THE SUN second album track listing:
01. The Giant (11:55) 02. Descending Winters (6:11) 03. Psychopath's Lair (5:51) 04. Forgive Her (9:02) 05. Fragile (7:12) 06. Ghost Of Laura Palmer (8:07) 07. Gloom, Beauty And Despair (8:45) 08. The Ship (8:55)
DEAD CENTER PROD/DISTRO/ANTI CHRIST ZINE (Lugansk, Ukraine) is preparing the stuff for VCD Compilation, bands can send their videos (in PC format). Among the bands, which will be featured on the CD are: SCALP, PSILOCYBE LARVAE, AGE OF AGONY, KINETIC, DOR FEAFAROTH and oter.
Also label continues to gather the cover songs for A TRIBUTE TO DEICIDE (CD/MC), write the manager even if you don't have anything ready now - you have the time!
Write to - Alexandr Maximov, P.O. box 203, Lugansk, 91001, Ukraine. E-mail: ' GSM: +38-097-977-73-85
RUINA RECORDS, subdivision of GRIFFIN MUSIC, presents “In Loneliness Of Two Souls” – дебютный альбом похоронной церемонии AUTUMNIA. 59 minutes of tragical funeral doom/death metal for those, in hearts of which is always autumn, pain, sadness. The material was composed during the long autumn nights by Alexandr Glavnyy (ex-Mournful Gust, ex-Vae Solis) and Vlad Shakhin (Mournful Gust, Vae Solis). In the booklet design were used the exclusive photo pictures with old Polish and German cemetaries of XVIII-XIX centuries.
Tracklist: 1. …By your hand 2. Before leave for ever (' ) 3. In sorrow and solitude (' ) 4. By eternal parting 5. Pray for me… 6. Into the grave…
CD order: '
Review on AUTUMNIA's “In Loneliness Of Two Souls” is posted already in our webzine. You can read it ' .
Reunited Swedish doom legends CANDLEMASS will celebrate the release of their new self-titled album in Stockholm, Sweden.
Due on May 2 via Nuclear Blast Records, "Candlemass" was recorded in part at Polar studios (ABBA, GENESIS, LED ZEPPELIN) in Stockholm, Sweden and is said to be musically similar to the group's classic "Tales of Creation" and "Nightfall" albums.
"Candlemass" track listing:
01. Enemy (intro) 02. Black Dwarf 03. Seven Silver Keys 04. Assassin of the Light 05. Copernicus 06. The Man Who Fell from the Sky 07. Witches 08. Born In A Tank 09. Spellbreaker 10. The Day and the Night 11. Mars and Volcanoes (digipack bonus track)
Finnish atmospheric doom metallers SILENTIUM will enter the studio on May 2 to begin recording their fourth CD, tentatively due in late 2005 via Dynamic Arts Records.
SILENTIUM, who recently announced the addition of vocalist Riina Rinkinen and returning drummer Jari Ojala to the group's ranks, released their third album, "Sufferion - Hamartia of Prudence", in 2003 through Spikefarm Records. Produced by NIGHTWISH mainman Tuomas Holopainen, the CD was recorded at Sundicoop Studio in Savonlinna, Finland and featured a guest appearance by former LULLACRY and current SOULGRIND frontwoman Tanja Kemppainen.
COVENANCE is the name of a brand-new band formed by ex-DYING FETUS singer Vince Matthews and former MISERY INDEX members Matt Byers (drums) and Bruce Greig (also ex-DYING FETUS). The group, whose sound is being described as "melodic, brutal death metal" and unlike that of either DYING FETUS or MISERY INDEX, have just completed work on their first demo. An official web site, www.covenance.com, will contain additional information regarding the band's touring plans.
Announcement regarding second guitarplayer "We'd like announce that Rob Barrett, who as you all know played guitar with Cannibal Corpse from 1993 to 1997 and appeared on "the Bleeding" and "Vile" albums, will be rejoining the band for our performance at the Northwest Death Fest in Seattle on April 3rd.
Whether or not Rob will be staying with the band permanently after that show is still not certain, but so far we're very happy to have Rob back in the fold. We'll post an update when we know for sure if Rob is permanently rejoining or not.
We also would like to say thank you to Jeremy Turner for doing an amazing job playing guitar with us on "The Wretched Spawn" tour in 2004. Jeremy really helped us out in a tight spot, and we wish him the best in his future musical endeavors".
FATES WARNING drummer Mark Zonder and MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP guitarist/keyboardist Wayne Findlay have been recording demos with vocalist David Fefolt (VALHALLA, HAWK, MASI). The as-yet-unnamed band's music is being described as "very progressive rock with a broad variety of influences, including Latin and reggae," with "very intense percussion and powerful vocals." The group's current plans are to finish recording the demos before securing a label deal. More information will be made available soon.
Late June will see the release of the new Demons & Wizards CD "Touched By The Crimson King" with the following tracks:
1. Crimson King 2. Beneath These Waves 3. Terror Train 4. Seize The Day 5. The Gunslinger 6. Love's Tragedy Asunder 7. Wicked Witch 8. Dorian 9. Down Where I Am 10. Immigrant Song (Led Zeppelin cover)
For the digipack release there will be a bonus CD with the following songs:
DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Portnoy has uploaded the revised/final cover artwork for the group's new album, "Octavarium", at ' . The CD is scheduled for release on June 7 via Atlantic Records.
DREAM THEATER began writing and recording their latest album last November at the Hit Factory studios in New York City. The follow-up to 2003's "Train of Thought" will hold the distinction of being the very last album ever recorded at the world-famous recording facility.
Asked how "Octavarium" differs from its predecessor, DREAM THEATER guitarist John Petrucci recently told Billboard.com, "The album before this we wrote in the rehearsal period, constructed all the songs and then went into the studio and recorded them. The style from song to song was pretty consistent; that album was pretty dark and heavy and very riffy, sort of metal [or] progressive metal-sounding. This one we wrote in the studio, and I think that stylistically from song to song it's more diverse."
"Octavarium" track listing:
01. The Root of All Evil 02. The Answer Lies Within 03. These Walls 04. I Walk Beside You 05. Panic Attack 06. Never Enough 07. Sacrificed Sons 08. Octavarium
Five songs from the upcoming NAPALM DEATH album, "The Code is Red...Long Live the Code", will be streamed online at the German Metal Hammer web site. Each day this week, a new song will be added to the page, beginning with "Silence Is Golden". Check it out at ' .
"The Code Is Red… Long Live The Code" was recorded at Foel Studios with producer Russ Russell and features guest appearances by Jello Biafra (ex-DEAD KENNEDYS), Jamey Jasta (HATEBREED) and Jeff Walker (ex-CARCASS).
Commented frontman Mark "Barney" Greenway: "What more can I tell you? Well, it's a ripper — fast, progressive and a nice bit of art-noise. With Jello Biafra, Jamey Jasta and Jeff Carcass along for the ride, we hope it'll take your heads off — or at least get you thinking with them."
"The Code is Red...Long Live the Code" is scheduled for release in Europe on April 25 via Century Media Records.
Finnish metallers CHILDREN OF BODOM have finished recording the drum tracks for their new album, tentatively due in September via Spinefarm Records. "Now the band will start working with guitar and bass tracks," reads a posting on the group's web site. "Recordings should be ready by the end of May!"
German black metal band ZARATHUSTRA have completed work on a new EP, entitled "Contempt", at Sweden's Necromorbus Studio (WATAIN, FUNERAL MIST). The group spent nine days in the studio working on the follow-up to their "Perpetual Black Force" CD, which will be released in May via Undercover Records in a strictly limited and hand-numbered edition on CD (1,000) and LP (500, including one bonus track).
"Contempt" track listing:
01. Slave Morality (' clip) 02. Become Eternal 03. Master Morality 04. ...Of Serpents and Swords (' clip) 05. Sphinx (cover of German black metal band POISON) (vinyl bonus)
The "Contempt" cover artwork was conceived by Chris "Thorncross" Moyen.
Finnish metallers STRATOVARIUS will release their brand-new self-titled effort in late August/early September via Sanctuary Records. The track listing for the effort is as follows:
01. Maniac Dance 02. Fight 03. Just Carry On 04. Back To Madness 05. Gypsy In Me 06. Götterdämmerung (Zenith of Power) 07. The Land of Ice and Snow 08. Leave The Tribe 09. United
A video for the album's first single, "Maniac Dance", was shot last week by director and guitarist Timo Tolkki's old schoolmate Antti Jokinen (BEYONCÉ, WYCLEF JEAN, KORN, MISSY ELLIOT, NIGHTWISH, SHANIA TWAIN, CELINE DION).
MHP 04-034 CD SEMARGL "Attack on God" - crushing black/death metal. The debut album was recorded and mastered in famous Polish studio Herz (HELLBORN, DECAPITATED, DIES IRAE)!
MHP 04-037 CD BLACK SHADOW "ZOv Smerti" - satanick ultra-speed black metal. In vein of DARK FUNEAL and ASHEN LIGHT. In the ranks of the band - ASHEN LIGHT vocalist, Lord Demogorgon. Presentation was on April, 9th in R-Club.
In next two monthes More Hate will release: MHP 05-033 NORD'N'COMMANDER "Hermeneutics" progressive black dark metal MHP 05-035 EMBERS OF LIFE "Dark Conspiracy" symphonic black/death metal MHP 05-036 NATURAL SPIRIT "Русколунь" pagan Slavonic black metal
On final stage are the preparations to release the second part of CD grind core compilation by MORE HATE. This time compilation will feature Belarussians POSTHUMOUS BLASPHEMER with brand new 4 tracks, and 3 bands from Moscow, Russia : MUTANT FACTOR, ANAL NOSOROG, PRECHUDLIVYY ZARODYSH. The delay of release date is due to technical reasons.
With Estonian melodic death metal group - POST MORTEM to release their new album, "The Victory Day".
WIth Rybinsk, Russia band BOG-MOROK, who released their last CD last year through CD-Maximum, to release new album, "Stadiae II".
Also More Hate signed the record deal with Spanish formation FATAL PORTRAIT, which play sophisticated dark black metal, to releasethe scond full-length, "Adventum". These CDs are planned to be released this summer.
OLD MAN'S CHILD guitarist Galder (also in DIMMU BORGIR) has posted the following message on the group's web site:
"The new OLD MAN'S CHILD album is now finally almost finished after a quite long break. It was recorded in Fredman [in Gothenburg, Sweden] once again since I was pretty satisfied with the sound on the 'In Defiance of Existence' album [2003]. It's going to be mixed in early May so you can expect that Century Media will push it so it comes out as soon as possible. I only have an unmixed version at home, but even that sounds pretty good, so I have a feeling it will sound very good when finally mixed. It has 8 new songs and a re-recording of the old song 'Born of the Flickering'. The title of the new album is not quite decided yet but at this time I have decided to name it 'In the Orbit of Torment' but this might possibly be changed. I have done an 'ill-natured...' method on this album so every instrument is done personally except for the drums which was done by the Danish Reno Kiilerich [DIMMU BORGIR, EXMORTEM, VILE] which by the way did a killer job behind the drums. So all in all I must say I'm very happy with the album and hopefully everything will turn out good on the mixing side as well."
Sweden's TRANSPORT LEAGUE have entered Grand Recordings in Gothenburg to begin recording their new album, "Obey, Consume, Reject", for a tentative September release through an as-yet-undetermined label. A total of 11 songs are currently being recorded, including a cover of DEPECHE MODE's "Never Let Me Down Again". Other songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Monster Device", "Handcuffed", "Kick Down", "Seven Day Armor", "Fold and Disgusted" and "Soul Wasted".
Sweden's OPETH are on the verge of inking a new record deal with Roadrunner Records. The band, who were previously signed to the now-defunct British label Music For Nations Records, recently entered Fascination Street studios in Örebro, Sweden to begin recording their eight album, tentatively due later in the year.
MY DYING BRIDE have uploaded screenshots from their video for the track "The Blue Lotus" at ' . The clip, which was directed and conceived by David Palzer, will be included on the group's upcoming "Sinamorata" DVD, tentatively due early summer via Peaceville. In addition to the "The Blue Lotus" video, "Sinamorata" will include live footage (12 songs) shot on November 2, 2003 in Antwerpen, Belgium, as well as backstage extras, the "Prize of Beauty" promotional clip, two videos made by MY DYING BRIDE fans ("Hope the Destroyer" and "My Wine In Silence") and a photo gallery featuring fan-created artwork inspired by the band's music.
DARKEST HOUR have set the tentative track listing for their new album, "Undoing Ruin", due on June 28 via Victory.
The follow-up to 2003's "Hidden Hands of a Sadist Nation", "Undoing Ruin" was produced by STRAPPING YOUNG LAD mastermind Devin Townsend and will reportedly feature artwork by Chris Taylor of PG. 99.
"Undoing Ruin" track listing:
01. With A Thousand Words To Say But One 02. Convalescence 03. This Will Outlive Us 04. Sound The Surrender 05. Pathos 06. Low 07. Ethos 08. District Divided 09. These Fevered Times 10. Paradise 11. Tranquil
Season of Mist has announced a North American licensing deal consisting of four releases from Finland's Spinefarm/Spikefarm Records. The CDs to be issued include the latest albums from the bands SHAPE OF DESPAIR ("Illusion's Play"), TO SEPARATE THE FLESH FROM THE BONES ("Utopia Sadistica") and REVEREND BIZARRE ("In the Rectory of the Bizarre Reverend" and "Harbinger of Metal").
The official North American street date for all four CDs will be August 9, 2005 and all releases will be available via Caroline Distribution as well as direct from Season of Mist (USA).
New details from the organizator of Ukrainian open air fest Metal Heads Mission. This year all who come to the Black sea shore, will probably see on stage:
Metal Blade Records have announced the official signing of Indianapolis-based death metal band DEMIRICOUS. The group will enter Planet Z Studios in June with producer Zeuss (HATEBREED, SHADOWS FALL) to begin recording their new full-length album. The title of the band's debut Metal Blade Records release will be announced shortly.
Wroth Emitter Records have reported that the re-issue of the back work ' by doom-death masters SAINTS EVERLASTING REST (Moscow, RU) is up ready. Release date set as April 9. The CD will be available from the Gorbushka store (Moscow, RU) and via ' .
DEMONS & WIZARDS, the project featuring Jon Schaffer of ICED EARTH and Hansi Kürsch of BLIND GUARDIAN, have set "Touched by the Crimson King" as the title of their sophomore album, due June 27 via SPV Records.
The follow-up to the group's 2001 self-titled CD, "Touched by the Crimson King" will feature the following track listing:
01. Crimson King 02. Beneath These Waves 03. Terror Train 04. Seize the Day 05. The Gunslinger 06. Love's Tragedy Asunder 07. Wicked Witch 08. Dorian 09. Down Where I Am 10. Immigrant Song (LED ZEPPELIN cover)
There is currently talk about DEMONS & WIZARDS filming a video for their version of "Immigrant Song". However, at press time, this has not yet been officially confirmed.
Sweden's THYRFING will enter EMI Studio in Stockholm on April 18 with producer Henrik Edenhed (LAMBRETTA, THE SOUNDS) to record their fifth, as-yet-untitled album. The follow-up to 2002's "Vansinnesvisor" (Hammerheart Records) will be mixed later during the summer for a fall release via Regain Records.
DREAM EVIL, the Swedish band featuring acclaimed producer Fredrik Nordström (HAMMERFALL, IN FLAMES, DIMMU BORGIR, SPIRITUAL BEGGARS, etc.) and drummer Snowy Shaw (KING DIAMOND, MERCYFUL FATE, MEMENTO MORI, NOTRE DAME), have postponed the recording sessions for their fourth album until August/September from the previously announced late May. The delay is being attributed to the band's desire to spend more time writing and demoing new material before entering the studio.
Finnish melodic power metallers THUNDERSTONE have entered the national single chart in Finland at position No. 3 with their limited-edition "Tool of the Devil" single.
As previously reported, THUNDERSTONE are scheduled to release their third full-length album, "Tools of Destruction", on April 18 via Nuclear Blast Records.
April 7 is the release date for the fifth album "Zhizn' V Sumerkax" ["Dwellers of the Twilight" - transl.] by the top Russian heavy power metal band EPIDEMIA.
This album is a compilation, which includes the highly acclaimed tracks out of all previous band's works: "Volya K Zhizni" ["The Will To Live" - transl.] (1998), "Na Krayu Vremeni" ["At The Age Of Time" - transl.](1999) (these two albums had never been published as CD) and the latter one - "Zagadka Volshebnoi Strany" ["The Mystery Of The Fairy-Land" - transl.](2001). Total tracklisting includes 11 points selected from the voting with participation from the band's fan army. As their part, the band-members have re-recorded old material, updated lyrics and song-structures with all the work commenced on Aria Records facility in the last half 2004.
This informarion is from official site of the band:
No news is good news. This obviously is bad news. After walking along the same musical paths for about 20 years and after several long, open and honest discussions between the four band members, we have all (including Thomen) come to the same conclusion that it is now best for Thomen to leave the band.
Since we developed different musical and personal directions for quite a while now, it turned out to be more and more difficult to find acceptable and suitable solutions for everyone in the band. Such circumstances would have eventually caused severe internal problems. Therefore, to avoid any damage to our close relationship this difficult step is essential. In terms of creativity or progression neither one of us would like to hold the other one back. Due to that fact the split seems to be a sad, but reasonable solution. We wish Thomen all the best for the future and hope to come up with more positive news in the near future.
…and day shall come again
Hansi
Dear Bards,
As you may have read in Hansi's statement, I am no longer the drummer of Blind Guardian. From now on we are going our separate ways, at least musically. I must admit it is quite a sad, but necessary decision in order for us to remain friends.
I stand fully behind Hansi's declaration, so I will keep my statement as short as possible, and wish Blind Guardian all the best for the future, hoping that they find another drummer without any hassle.
I would also like to use this opportunity to thank each and everyone of you who stood by us through all those years, especially our fans. You are the best!!! I hope to see you again soon!
A big thank you to my old colleagues, Hansi, Andre and Marcus, for all the amazing times we've shared.
As it is said in Siberian Black Metal Dark Horde mailing list:
"Siberian Black Metal Dark Horde announce that the official web site of TROGMORTON, GHORNUMN and DWERGAMAL projects has been uploaded here: ' .
Currently, only the sketch example of the web page is available, that includes brief info on the aforementioned bandsand mp3 samples. Your opinion on the web site's design and its content is important to us!
Music press issues, record labels and live promoters! You could order our promo materials contacting us as written below: ' или ' ."
DEATH ANGEL guitarist Ted Aguilar and longtime San Francisco Bay Area metal scene fixture Walter Morgan are among the people involved with a brand new record company called Old School Metal Records, "a label determined to find and promote those bands that know how to craft a great song with talent and skill rather than with technology and effects," according to a press release.
"OSM Records are in the process of signing some really talented bands, we have ears and eyes on almost every corner of the world and we are determined to succeed. This is a call to arms for every unsigned band that has the balls to make front to the trendy reality of metal music today."
California death-grind band DISGORGE have completed work on their fourth album, "Paralells of Infinite Torture", due on May 17 via Crash Music Inc. The track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Revealed in Obscurity 02. Enthroned Abominations 03. Atonement 04. Abhorrent Desecration of thee Iniquity 05. Forgotten Scriptures 06. Descending upon Convulsive Devourments 07. Condemned to Sufferance 08. Parallels of Infinite Torture 09. Asphyxiation of thee Oppressed 10. Ominous Sigils of Ungodly Ruins
A full-length MP3 of the track "Enthroned Abominations" can be downloaded at this location.
DISGORGE had previously released two albums through the Unique Leader label (1999's "She Lay Gutted" and 2001's "Consume the Forsaken") and a collection of demos through Extremities Productions (1999's "Cranial Impalement").
BRAINSTORM's video for the track "All Those Words" has been posted online at ' (Windows Media). The video was shot in an old mine in Germany, where "the special atmosphere deep inside these mighty mountains was perfectly captured," according to a press release.
"All Those Words" comes off the German power metallers' long-awaited new full-length album, "Liquid Monster", due on April 4 via Metal Blade Records. A limited-edition version of "Liquid Monster" will be available as a CD+DVD digibook, featuring the album, a video documentary of the band's last world tour and additional bonus material.
BRAINSTORM recently announced that female singer Carmen Schäfer will be joining them on stage for the song "All Those Words" at their shows in Ludwigsburg (April 27) and Budapest (April 30) on the upcoming tour. "Besides these two special performances, all fans can expect amazing shows on the whole tour with tons of light effects and fantastic stage buildings!" drummer Dieter Bernert said in a statement. "As we always promised to bring our own show with us, now you will see what a real BRAINSTORM show is all about!"
BRAINSTORM's "Inside The Monster - World Tour 2005 / 2006" will kick off April 19 at The Rock in Copenhagen, Denmark. A U.K. tour supporting SAXON was recently rescheduled for October.
Death Metal veterens BENEDICTION have finally started work in earnest on their follow-up album to 2001's "Organised Chaos". Vocalist Dave Hunt, guitarists Darren Brookes and Peter Rew, and bassist Frank Healy will be assisted in the writing and fine-tuning of the forthcoming tracks by their old drummer, Neil Hutton, and ex-DIMMU BORGIR/CRADLE OF FILTH skinsman Nick Barker. It has not yet been determined who will be drumming on the new release, but the live drummer will more than likely be Nick Barker. Barker has been a longtime friend of the band and shares their love of all things Metal. Also rumoured to be assisting the band during the writing process are various members of MISTRESS, ANAAL NATHRAKH and BOLT THROWER. No further information is available at this time.
Norwegian black metallers SATYRICON have posted the following message on their official web site: "Continuing the new way of writing and working on song arragements in remote places, Satyr just returned from another session held in a cabin by the sea on Norway's second biggest populated island. Now we are preparing for a test-recording for two new songs that will take place three weeks from now. The band has also managed to obtain an audio recording of the Pope's last rite held last night CET. We hope to make a song based around this recording and have Phil Spector produce it."
MAYHEM's Jan Axel Blomberg (a.k.a. Hellhammer) has reportedly agreed to play on the next DIMMU BORGIR CD as a session drummer. The Norwegian symphonic black metallers had previously utilized the services of NILE's Tony Laureano and Reno Kiilerich (PANZERCHRIST, EXMORTEM, VILE) as touring members following the departure of Nick Barker (ex-CRADLE OF FILTH) in early 2004.
DIMMU BORGIR recently announced plans to re-record their second album, "Stormblåst" (originally released in 1996 via Cacophonous Records) later in the year. No further information is currently available.
Swedish power metallers NOCTURNAL RITES have uploaded their video for the track "Avalon" at this location.
The group's third clip off their most recent album, "New World Messiah", "Avalon" was directed and produced by Owe Lingvall for Satellite Productions.
NOCTURNAL RITES' sixth studio album, "New World Messiah", was released last spring through Century Media Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Shadowland" was recorded in the band's hometown of Umeå, Sweden and was mixed and mastered at Finnvox Studio in Helsinki, Finland by T.T. Oksala (TIAMAT, APOCALYPTICA) and Minerva Pappi.
Brazilian thrashers SEPULTURA have posted the following message on their official web site:
"SEPULTURA is back in Brazil and getting ready for the recording of the DVD! Everything is set. Sunday, April the 3rd is the day! The concert will take place in São Paulo and SEPULTURA will be practicing all week for a very special show.
"The DVD — to be released in June/July — will also feature a documentary/home video with backstage footage and a lot more."
As previously reported. SEPULTURA are in the process of writing material for their new studio album, which is said to be based on the "The Divine Comedy", widely considered the greatest epic poem of Italian literature, and one of the greatest of world literature.
German thrashers DEW-SCENTED have set "Issue VI" as the title of their new album, due in Europe on June 20 via Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Impact", "Issue VI" was recorded at Stage One studios in Borgentreich, Germany with producer Andy Classen (CALLENISH CIRCLE, TANKARD, OCCULT). Classen, who produced the previous DEW-SCENTED albums "Inwards" (2002) and "Impact", "did an outstanding job once [again] and definitely managed to deliver his best production (for us, at least...) ever! We look forward to sharing these new songs with everybody!" the band write on their web site.
"Issue VI" track listing:
01. Processing Life 02. Rituals of Time 03. Turn to Ash 04. Ruins of Hope 05. Out of The Self 06. The Prison of Reason 07. Bled Dry 08. In Defeat 09. Never to Return 10. Vortex 11. Conceptual End 12. Evil Dead (ZEKE cover)
Former HIRAX members Gary Monardo (bass), Johnny Tabares (drums, HIRAX's "Raging Violence" album), and Bob Savage (guitar, HIRAX's 1984 demo) have joined forces with ex-WARGOD singer Robbie Perkins in a reformed version of their pre-HIRAX band COLD BLOOD, now going under the moniker WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION (W.O.M.D.). The group are currently in the process of writing material for a three-song demo, to be released this summer.
Russian "angry" metallers HOSTILE BREED will be supporting SOULFLY on their upcoming Russian tour beginning on April 21.
Confirmed SOULFLY/HOSTILE BREED tour dates:
Apr. 21 – S-Petersburg, RUS @ Port Apr. 22 – Kaliningrad, RUS @ City Park Apr. 23 – Moscow, RUS @ DKG Apr. 24 - N.Novgorod, RUS @ Matrix
HOSTILE BREED's latest album, "The Second Cut", was released last April via top Russian metal record label Irond Ltd. "The Second Cut" includes a guest appearance on vocals by SKINLAB frontman Steev Esquivel on the song "Show Me the Road", a guitar solo by INVOCATOR's Flemming C. Lund on "Civilization of Hatred", and an appearance by the singer from Danish band SACRIFICIAL on the song "Color of Freedom". Production on the album was handled by Jacob Hansen (INVOCATOR, MNEMIC, RAUNCHY, HATESPHERE). The CD cover artwork was conceived by the Moscow art studio Traum.
According to the U.K.'s Terrorizer magazine, Carl-Michael "Aggressor" Eide (AURA NOIR, INFERNO, VIRUS, VED BUENS ENDE, ex-CADAVER, ex-DHG) fell from (or jumped off, depending on whose story you believe) a five-story building in Oslo, Norway on Saturday (March 26). He is currently undergoing extensive surgery and the outcome is still not determined. Friends, family and fans all over the world are in shock and can only hope that he'll pull through and make as complete a recovery as possible.
Reactivated Florida death metallers OBITUARY have lined up the following festival appearances during the coming months. OBITUARY have finished recording a mixing their new CD for a tentative summer release via Roadrunner Records. The as-yet-untitled new album, which was self-produced by the band will mark the group's first collection of new songs since 1997's "Back From the Dead".
Reactivated Finnish metallers ETERNAL TEARS OF SORROW are about to enter the studio to begin recording their as-yet-untitled fifth album. The first studio session will take place at Tico-Tico studio on Good Friday (March 25). The songs will be recorded and mixed at several studios in Northern Europe during the coming months. A late 2005 release via Spinefarm Records is expected.
According to the band, "The material for the fifth album is heavier, much more diverse and more guitar-orientated compared to the fourth album 'A Virgin And A Whore'." A studio diary has been launched at this location.
ETERNAL TEARS OF SORROW's current lineup is as follows:
Altti Veteläinen - Bass, Vocals Jarmo Puolakanaho - Guitar Risto Ruuth - Lead Guitar Janne Tolsa - Keyboards Petri Sankala - Drums
JUDAS PRIEST's "Angel of Retribution" has entered the Greek national album chart at position No. 1 — the first time PRIEST have topped the national album chart anywhere in the world.
"Angel of Retribution" first-week chart positions (updated):
#1 - Greece #3 - Sweden #4 - Japan #4 - Germany #6 - Norway #6 - Spain #10 - Austria #12 - Canada #13 - U.S. #19 - Switzerland #26 - Italy #39 - U.K. #40 - Ireland #43 - France #45 - Czech Republic #46 - Holland
Singer Rob Halford's first album with JUDAS PRIEST in 15 years, "Angel of Retribution" was produced by Roy Z, who has previously worked on solo albums from Halford and IRON MAIDEN's Bruce Dickinson.
As a message on PECCATUM's website says, "A new PECCATUM EP entitled “The Moribund People” is just about ready. This release contains two new songs and a special cover of Bathory’s legendary “For All Those Who Died”. The EP will also include a music video for the title track. Release date for Europe will follow shortly."
Polish death metallers VADER have parted ways with longtime drummer Doc. The group's leader, Peter, has issued the following statement on the matter:
"We have been building 'the VADER Empire' together since '88... The success of our music was no doubt the success of Doc himself. Not just a talent is but the main point of being a part of a BAND, not only musical abilities but — first of all — devotion, utterance.... We had already such a problems before (Shambo, Simon..). Doc pretty hard tried to 'fight' against his weaknesses, which were troubles for all of us. Finaly he had not prevailed over that battle... All in all, he attempted.
"VADER today is not just a friendship anymore — it's our life with armies of man involved in music, releases and — first of all — fans waiting for shows or new albums... This is a high responsibility, not too many know about. If a person, even the most talented one, cannot stand it — has to leave... That was Doc's decission as well. 'But the world keeps turnin'...' and the same is with VADER. We were and we will be!!!
"For Doc, his girlfriend and newborn son we all wish good luck and wanna thank mim for all those great years, in which we were touring across the world!!!
"From now Daray has been officially confirmed as a new drummer of the band. Not really brand new, he has been playing with the band since one year and recorded the latest album 'The Beast'."
Dutch melodic death metallers CALLENISH CIRCLE have issued the following update:
"Last couple of months we have been working very hard on our new (and meanwhile fifth) studio album. So far we have written the complete basics of six new tracks and we have plenty of cool material and ideas left for the rest of the album. It's just a matter of putting the right ideas into song structures and working out the details. Some of the new songtitles are 'This Day You Regret', 'Sweet Cyanide' and 'As You Speak'.
"The recordings for the new, as-yet-untitled, album are scheduled in May and June over here in The Netherlands with Gail Liebling (mastermind behind GAIL OF GOD). The mix will be done in Denmark with Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, ILLDISPOSED, MNEMIC) at the well-known Antfarm Studio. Last but not least, the album will be mastered by Peter Neuber at Mega Wimp Sound in Germany. At the moment we haven’t decided on the artist for the artwork yet.
"The new material music-wise… well… just imagine the best of what we did on both Metal Blade albums, add some really cool groovy parts and combine this already deadly cocktail with some high-tech wacky soundscapes, delivered by Mr. Liebling himself.
"Furthermore the new album will feature a bonus DVD with a lot of cool video footage. On this bonus DVD there will be featured a completely professional (audio & visual) recorded live show (recorded at the 013 venue in Tilburg), a home-video of our trip to the Piorno Rock Festival in Spain, a studio report of the recordings of our upcoming album and some other interesting stuff.
"The release is scheduled for November on Metal Blade Records again. After the release we will also hit the road again to promote the album at the live front."
Italian Black Metallers ABORYM, now featuring former EMPEROR and current SCUM drummer Bard "Faust" Eithun, have inked a two-album deal with Season of Mist. After comparing several offers from European and American labels, the band decided to sign with Season of Mist, in their opinion the best "quality Black Metal" label. ABORYM will record their new album during April-May 2005 in Rome, Italy.
The band's lineup has undergone several changes with the addition of Faust and vocalist Prime Evil (ex-MYSTICUM). Faust says: "Through the years my contribution to ABORYM varied from writing a few lyrics, doing some spoken passages, as well as playing with them live. I have great respect for the band and the people behind it. ABORYM is highly innovative and influential as far as the mixture of traditional Black Metal and electronics goes. I see my position in the band strengthening when becoming a permanent part of the band. I am going down to Rome later this year in order to participate on the recording of the fourth ABORYM album. I think it should easily surpass everything they have done earlier. It should be classic to say the least".
Prime Evil joins ABORYM as the replacement for the group's previous singer, Attila Csihar, who has returned to MAYHEM. Despite Attila's departure, Csihar will still find time to do some vocals on the new ABORYM album.
Swedish Experimental Extreme Metallers MESHUGGAH have finalized the track listing for their new album, "Catch 33", due on May 16 in Europe and May 31 in the U.S. via Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Nothing" is being described as one continuous 47-minute song divided into 13 parts and is said to be "musically the opposite" of the group's 2004 EP, "I".
"Catch 33" track listing:
01. Autonomy Lost 02. Imprint Of The Un-Saved 03. Disenchantment 04. The Paradoxical Spiral 05. Re-Inanimate 06. Entrapment 07. Mind's Mirrors 08. In Death - Is Life 09. In Death - Is Death 10. Shed 11. Personae Non Gratae 12. Dehumanization 13. Sum
Former CHARON guitarist Jasse Von Hast has launched a new project called WIHASTAN.
WIHASTAN was formed in the fall of 2003 after Von Hast left CHARON. Being a songwriter for 15 years and having a "wild rock 'n' roll soul," Von Hast made the decision to develop WIHASTAN into a fully working band.
After playing with male vocalists for a number of years, Von Hast wanted to try something different for his band. After a little searching and test recordings Von Hast decided to choose a female vocalist with a unique voice.
In summer 2004, Jasse Von Hast built his own ProTools-based digital home studio and began demoing the group's material.
WIHASTAN's first promotional CD, "You Bring Me Hell", was completed in December 2004 and was premiered in January on the Finnish heavy metal radio program "Metalliliitto".
Sanctuary Records has set a May 24 U.S. release date (one day earlier internationally) for the new solo album from IRON MAIDEN frontman Bruce Dickinson, entitled "Tyranny of Souls".
Dickinson is an artist who has influenced thousands of singers, musicians and fans alike in his outstanding role as the front man of legendary band IRON MAIDEN. He has achieved great success as a solo artist, and is also acclaimed as a radio DJ, TV presenter, pilot, author and voice of modern music.
It has been seven years since Dickinson released his last solo album, "The Chemical Wedding", which received massive critical acclaim while exploring intriguing and dark themes. The intervening years have seen him make a highly successful return to IRON MAIDEN, with two huge albums and record-breaking live shows and tours.
"Tyranny of Souls" track listing:
01. Mars Within (Intro) 02. Abduction 03. Soul Intruders 04. Kill Devil Hill 05. Navigate the Seas of the Sun 06. River of No Return 07. Power of the Sun 08. Devil on a Hog 09. Believil 10. A Tyranny of Souls
Monday 21st March sees the release of ADEMA’s lead-off single ‘Tornado’ from their hotly anticipated new album ‘Planets’. Available for one week only, on CD Single and 7" Vinyl, both limited editions contain exclusive non album B-side tracks including a cover of Metallica's 'The Thing That should Not Be'. In other news, hot on the heels of Henry Rollins, 50 Cent, The Vandals and comedian Robin Williams, rockers ADEMA have been invited by the USO to fly out to the Persian Gulf to do a series of shows for the troops stationed in the area. For ADEMA’s new vocalist Luke Caraccioli, this is even more poignant as Luke, up until the summer last year was in the Marines, is going to play shows where his former unit are based. They will be in the Middle East on the day their new album ‘Planets’ is released in the U.S.
Norwegian Goth Rockers MORTIIS are due to release their second single from the critically acclaimed album ‘The Grudge’. The new single will be ‘Decadent & Desperate” and is due to be released in the UK on 25th April, and comes with 4 newly recorded tracks, exclusive to this release.
LINEA 77 have begun recording their new album in the famed Ameraycan Studio, Los Angeles with Dave Dominguez. This will be the follow up to ‘Numb’ - the album that brought them a European MTV Award Nomination.
Finnish noisecore act CALLISTO are set to release their debut for Earache - ‘True Nature Unfolds’ on Monday 28th March and have confirmed a Uk tour with High On Fire & Winnebego Deal
As the release of HATE ETERNAL’s new album ‘I, Monarch’ gets closer, the band have announced details of a US tour in support of the album.
Polish death metallers LOST SOUL have announced a huge European tour starting in April. This includes their first ever trip to the UK with giants VADER.
Thrash-core maniacs MUNICIPAL WASTE are in the process of finishing their debut full length album for Earache and are then planning a series of shows across the US.
The Dutch metallers NOX are gearing up to enter Excess Studios in Holland in June, to record their debut album for Wicked World ‘Ixaxaar’
There’s no rest for the wicked! After completing a near 2 month long tour of the UK & Europe, The Swedish noisecore crew are preparing to head out to the US for their first ever tour Stateside with giants Mastodon.
Debauched rockers SOCIETY 1’ brand new album ‘The Sound That Ends Creation’ is now available worldwide
Earache has now become affiliated with cult US label Willowtip, to release their artists within Europe. Willowtip is home to the likes of CEPHALIC CARNAGE, MISERY INDEX, CIRCLE OF DEAD CHILDREN to name a few.
New Releases out now:
WOLVERINE - ‘The Window Purpose’ SOCIETY 1 - ‘The Sound That Ends Creation’
New Releases – coming soon
21/03 – ADEMA - ‘Tornado” - SINGLE in UK ONLY 28/03 - CALLISTO - ‘True Nature Unfolds’ 28/03 - WITH PASSION - ‘In The Midst Of Bloodied Soil’ 11/04 - ADEMA - ‘Planets’ 25/04 – MORTIIS - ‘Decadent & Desperate’ - SINGLE 02/05 – CROWPATH – ‘Red On Chrome’ (Willowtip) 02/05 – CAPHARNAUM - ‘Fractured’ (Willowtip) 02/05 – MISERY INDEX/COMMIT SUICIDE – Split CD (Willowtip) 02/05 – WATCHMAKER - ‘Kill.Fucking.Everyone’ (Willowtip) 09/05 – CANDIRIA - ‘What Doesn’t Kill You ..’ 16/05 – BEECHER - ‘Breaking The Fourth Wall’ (includes 6 bonus tracks) 23/05 – SHORTIE - ‘Without A Promise’ 06/06 – CARNIVAL IN COAL - ‘Collection Prestige’ (Elitist) 06/06 – BIOMECHANICAL - ‘Empires Of The Worlds’
GUNS N' ROSES manager Merck Mercuriadis has dismissed as fake a newly circulated MP3 file which was previously rumored to be the new GN'R song "Twat". Sp1at spoke with Mercuriadis regarding the "leaked" recording and were assured that the song was "not GN'R." Merck also told Sp1at that if they were to host the track, he would not ask them to take it down. GN'R drummer Bryan "Brain" Mantia also told Sp1at that the track was fake, going as far as to say that it was "not even close" to the real version of "Twat".
SIRENIA, the Norwegian gothic metal band featuring former TRISTANIA guitarist/vocalist Morten Veland, have inked a deal with Nuclear Blast Records.
"SIRENIA are proud to have teamed up with Nuclear Blast. Together we will keep up the flame, and bring out the best music we could possibly offer for many years to come!" Veland said in a statement. "The last couple of months have been spent on creating new songs alongside our touring activity," the band write. "We have tons of ideas to pick from and will most likely spend the next few months on perfecting the best of this material. All the songs are meant for our next full-lenght album that most likely will be out in the beginning of next year."
Veteran San Francisco Bay Area thrashers EXODUS are selling a two-disc DVD document of their "Tempo of the Damned" record-release show, which took place March 2004 at the DNA Lounge in San Francisco. Entitled "Live at the DNA", the set contains the following track listing:
DVD One:
01. Intro / Scarred Spangled Banner 02. Deliver Us to Evil 03. Blacklist 04. Piranha 05. Til Death Do Us Part 06. Fabulous Disaster 07. Shroud of Urine 08. Parasite 09. Only Death Decides 10. Forward March 11. Chemi-Kill
DVD Two:
01. And Then There Were None 02. Culling the Herd 03. Sealed With A Fist 04. Throwing Down 05. Lesson In Violence 06. War Is My Sheppard 07. Tempo of the Damned Encore: 08. Impaler 09. Toxic Waltz 10. Bonded by Blood 11. Strike of the Beast
The first demo of DEATH HEAVEN, titled "Techno Decomposition World", is out now. It contains seven tracks of technical and aggressive death metal plus an instrumental intro. For info visit the official DEATH HEAVEN ' .
Magic Circle Music has signed an exclusive worldwide distribution deal for MANOWAR with SPV.
Magic Circle Music spokesman and MANOWAR management team member revealed that "With their professional attitude and international structure SPV won out over all the other major and independent record companies in negotiations that lasted more than a year.
MANOWAR bassist Joey DeMaio was quoted as saying " We are proud that our past with Nuclear Blast was a success that ultimately brought them their first gold record in their home territory of Germany, however since the formation of our own label, we have the very same level of responsibility to our artists and their fans as we do for MANOWAR and the MANOWAR fans, so it was absolutely necessary to find a company that could interface with our structure and would commit 100 percent of their support to us as well as to all Magic Circle bands".
MANOWAR are set to release their new single as well as their new DVD "Hell On Earth Part IV" in July of this year. The new MANOWAR album will then follow early 2006. MANOWAR will also perform live with several other Magic Circle Music bands at the Earthshaker Fest 2005 in Geiselwind/Germany on July 23, 2005.
SPV president commented, "my first working experience with MANOWAR began in 1985. SPV was the exclusive distribution partner for Roadrunner Records in Germany and as such was responsible for MANOWAR's album "Hail To England" and therefore marketed it successfully 20 years ago. I believe that signing MANOWAR will be the beginning of a longterm and fruitful pairing with the Kings Heavy Metal. This has been a true wish for two decades to continue this early collaboration on a higher level. Now with this current deal structure I am sure all of SPV's hopes and visions for a band like MANOWAR with their own label environment will come true.
The importance of MANOWAR for the whole scene, not only in Germany but in the other major-markets around the world is reason enough for me to be personally involved in all aspects of this great collaboration as it has been proven right in all of our past negotiations.
The most recent of which is the collaboration between Magic Circle Music and SPV with the outstanding success of Italian melodic-rockers RHAPSODY with Christopher Lee.
With two experienced teams working together this can only bring success!
To date MANOWAR have sold over 8 Million records Their latest album "Warriors Of The World" was released in 2002 achieving Top 5 chart positions worldwide (e.g. # 2 in Germany's Media Control Top 100 Charts) and has been certified gold.
Finnish power metallers STRATOVARIUS have posted the following message on their official web site:
"After a lot of listening and editing, the basic structure of our 11th album is getting together slowly but surely. After the turbulence of the last year, none of us has known what to expect when going into the studio.
"We have used the drums Jörg [Michael] recorded alone at Soundtrack studio about a year ago. There was about 70 gigabytes of drums, so that took a while to listen to. And bit of tough decisions, and editing, cutting and pasting. New lyrics and vocal melodies have been written, and also some new songs.
"Says Timo Tolkki (guitar): 'I recorded all my rhythm guitars during one evening. God, my fingers still hurt!! There is a construction project going on under my studio. They are building a parking hall and are exploding huge bombs twice a day. Also there is lots of drilling. I am sure that this is the first time in the history of metal that an album has been recorded under circumstances like these.'
"It has indeed been very hard to record vocals and acoustic instruments. But we are finally getting there, slowly but surely. It's flowing and the feeling is really good. The vocals will for sure be finished before [singer] Timo Kotipelto's solo tour embarks. Then of course, the mixing... the mixing... the mixing.
"STRATOVARIUS has never made a compromise when it comes to the sound and this time with [Timo Tolkki] in his own studio.. my God, anything under two months of mixing and we'll be lucky. Anyway we would like to thank you, the fans, for your patience and hope that you enjoy this progress report and some new pictures."
A brand new promotional photo of STRATOVARIUS can be viewed at '
SOILWORK vocalist Björn "Speed" Strid and BLIND GUARDIAN drummer Thomen Stauch are currently seeking a name for their new project. The collaboration, which originally went under the COLDSEED moniker, is described by Strid as "a mixture between RAMMSTEIN and ALICE IN CHAINS." A full-length album is currently being recorded and is due later in the year.
To suggest a name for the new band, visit SOILWORK's official web site at '
There is an information within LACRIMOSA's official site.
"There are only a few weeks left until May 2nd, when "Lichtgestalt" (luminous figure), our new and nineth studioalbum will be released! The aware LACRIMOSA-listener might have several associations by reading this title, which are thoroughly wanted, as this album "Lichtgestalt" takes to the point, what some previous lyrics and compositions indicated and prepared."
Norway's TURBONEGRO will release their new album, "Party Animals", throughout Europe on May 9. "Party Animals" is the follow-up to 2003's "Scandinavian Leather", and is produced by Steve McDonald, known for his work with THE WHITE STRIPES, BECK and REDD KROSS.
Songs to appear on the album include "City of Satan", "Wasted Again" and "Blow Me (Like the Wind)".
Danish hard rockers ROYAL HUNT have set "Paper Blood" as the title of their new album, tentatively due late spring/early summer through Frontiers Records.
The follow-up to 2003's "Eyewitness" was recorded at North Point studio in Copenhagen and will be mixed beginning on March 21 at EMI/Medley Studio in Copenhagen with André Andersen (keyboards) and Lars Overgaard behind the board.
"Paper Blood" track listing:
01. Break Your Chains 02. Not My Kind 03. Memory Lane 04. Never Give Up 05. Seven Days 06. SK 983 07. Kiss Of Faith 08. Paper Blood 09. Season’s Change 10. Twice Around The World
Israel's "Mesopotamian black metal" band ARALLU are currently in the studio recording their third album, "The Demon from the Ancient World", tentatively due late spring/early summer.
The upcoming CD will feature guest appearances in the track "Kill Kill Kill" by the vocalists by fellow Israeli acts SALEM (Zeev Tananboim), MOONSKIN (Yishai Swearts), BARTHOLOMEUS NIGHT (Refahim) and SHWORCHTSECHAYE (Yehi Zaken).
"The Demon from the Ancient World" track listing:
01. Dingir Xul 02. War Spirit 03. The Devil's Massacre 04. Sierra Nevada 05. Battle Ground 06. The Dead Will Rise Again 07. Sumerian Words 08. Kill Kill Kill 09. The 7 Chosen Genii 10. Tzvaot Arallu
SCARS, the power of Brazilian Thrash Metal - One of the icons of Brazilian Thrash Metal during the eighties recently came back to their activities. The band with new strength recorded at Lumen Studio the EP The Nether Hell that has as lyrical concept the Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri, the track list has six tracks following a furious Thrash Metal and some Death Metal influence. The first thousand copies of The Nether Hell will be totally distributed freely to the band's fans.
SCARS recently was the open act for two ANTHRAX concerts and praised by the crowd. SCARS, a big promess from Brazil. Know three music making dowload:
SUBLIMINAL CRUSHER are currently in the recording studio to begin working on their yet unnamed first full length record, tentatively due on late spring. The track list counts 11 tracks, and some of the track names are "Unfertile Suggestions", "A Poetry", "Slavery", "Fuck-simile". A cover version of a TESTAMENT classic will also be recorded, to be included as a bonus track at the end of the album.
Andrew Matte of the Regina Leader-Postt is reporting that GODSIZE, a tribute band from Winnipeg that plays the music of American metal band PANTERA, found themselves reluctantly buoyed by the success of their show after the murder of PANTERA guitarist Darrell "Dimebag" Abbott.
Any remaining pessimism among GODSIZE members was erased after their Winnipeg show was sold out, and also raised money for a charity in the slain guitarist's name.
"That crowd went crazy, they sang along to the songs, it was great," GODSIZE vocalist Paul Skelly says.
Their Regina show is the first GODSIZE "tour" date. They've never performed outside of Manitoba's capital, but Skelly is eager to perform wherever clubs and fans will have them.
GODSIZE benefits, like other PANTERA tribute acts, because Abbott's death generates new interest in PANTERA's music, Skelly admits, but it also means his band's tribute means that much more.
"It's sad that something like that happened to draw attention to the band," he says, "but playing this music feels so natural, it's almost a kiddy school kid kind of thing for us."
METALLICA drummer Lars Ulrich and his girlfriend, Danish actress Connie Nielsen, attended the 2005 Vanity Fair Oscar Party at Mortons in Los Angeles, California on February 27. Check out pictures from '
As previously reported, longtime San Francisco-area resident Ulrich recently moved to New York City to live with Nielsen, according to the New York Daily News. The Danish-born Ulrich has been dating Connie since separating from his wife, Skylar, last year. Now Ulrich is spending a good chunk of his time in the Big Apple with Nielsen and her 15-year-old son, Sebastian.
Nielsen is best known for her roles in "Gladiator", "One Hour Photo" and "The Devil's Advocate".
"Choosing Death: The Improbable History of Death Metal & Grindcore" author Albert Mudrian will sign copies of his book at the Neal's Yard location of Rough Trade in the Covent Garden section of London on Wednesday, March 16 at 6 p.m. Former CARCASS frontman Jeff Walker, former CARCASS drummer Ken Owen, former NAPALM DEATH frontman and current CATHEDRAL vocalist Lee Dorrian, NAPALM DEATH bassist Shane Embury, AKERCOCKE frontman Jason Mendonca and AKERCOCKE drummer David Gray will all join the author in signing copies of "Choosing Death". The book, published by Feral House, revisits critical moments in the history of the grindcore and death metal genres. For more information, go to www.roughtrade.com or www.choosingdeath.com.
Swedish/German extreme metal act ARCH ENEMY have commenced the recording sessions for the follow-up to 2003's "Anthems of Rebellion". "We spent the last month in rehearsals and pre-production… It was pretty intense, but hard work pays off — and I believe we have come up with an amazing collection of songs," drummer Daniel Erlandsson writes on the group's web site. The first studio photos can be found at ,' .
Long-awated album of MENTAL DEMISE, the leaders of Ukrainian brutal death/grind underground and Metal Heads' Mission open air festival organisers, is out now. New effort is entitled as "Disgraceful Sores" and is available through Belarus-based Moral Insanity productions (for C.I.S.) and US-based Sevared records (for USA and the rest of world).
You can download 2 samples from the new album: ' '
BLOOD RED THRONE's video for the track "Smite" has been posted online at ' .
"Smite" comes off the group's new album, "Altered Genesis", available now in Europe on Earache Records. A U.S. release is expected on March 22.
"Altered Genesis" was recorded at DUB studio in Norway and was engineered by Endre Kirkesola. Mixing duties were handled by Valle Adzic at Studio Mega in Sweden. An MP3 of the album track "Mephitication" can be downloaded at ' .
NWOBHM (New Wave of British Heavy Metal) legends DIAMOND HEAD have made their new album, "All Will Be Revealed".
"All Will Be Revealed" was produced by Brian Tatler and Karl Wilcox and is available in a limited tour edition. The track listing is as follows:
01. Mine All Mine 02. Give It To Me 03. Nightmare 04. Fallen Angel 05. Alimony 06. Lost At Sea 07. Broken Pieces 08. All Will Be Revealed 09. Dead Or Living 10. Drinkin Again 11. Come Alive 12. Muddy Waters
A tribute album to German power metallers RAGE consisting of contributions from 28 Austrian metal bands will be released on June 3. Entitled "Back In Time - A Tribute To Rage", the double CD will contain the following tracks:
01. ASPHYXIA - "All I Want" 02. CEEJAY & SEQUOIA DENDRON - "Turn the Page" 03. DRUNKEN ANGELS - "Incomplete" 04. ELEFTHERIA - "Riders on the Moonlight" 05. EVENTIDE - "The Crawling Chaos" 06. EYE OF BETRAYER - "Fading Hours/Take Me to the Water Medley" 07. EYETOLEGY - "Raw Caress" 08. FATE - "Soundchaser" 09. FIRESTORM - "Solitary Man" 10. LORDS OF DECADENCE - "Paint the Devil on the Wall" 11. LOST DREAMS - "Defenders of the Ancient Life" 12. MADOG - "The Crawling Chaos" 13. MIDGARD - "From The Cradle to the Grave" 14. MIDGARD UPGRADED - "The Missing Link" 15. NEBUCHADNEZZAR - "Down" 16. SCARECROW - "Don't Fear the Winter" 17. SAVIOUR - "Take Me to the Water" 18. SCREAM - "The Mirror In Your Eyes" 19. SEQUOIA DENDRON - "War of Worlds" 20. SERENITY - "Set the World on Fire" 21. SINDUSTRY - "The Price of War" 22. SOLE - "No Lies" 23. STERNENSTAUB - "From the Cradle to the Grave" 24. STYGMA IV - "Back In Time" (acoustic) 25. SUGAR FOR LUCY - "My Rage" 26. SUICIDE - "Baby I'm Your Nightmare" 27. VALSANS - "Sent by the Devil" 28. VIVIAN - "Back in Time"
To celebrate the album's release, a CD-release party will take place on June 3 at the Planet Music in Vienna. The event will feature the band SEQUIOA DENDRON, supported by special appearances by many Austrian guest musicians, performing most of the songs from the tribute album live. Additionally, there will be a pyro show during the live set and a video show featuring original RAGE videos and a video presentation specially put together for this occasion.
Wave Gothic Treffen's Organization Center have published recently the following statement:
"Preparations for the year 2005 already started and we hope to offer an unique and prestigious program again this year.
The WGT 2005 will be from the 2005-05-13 until 2005-05-16 in Leipzig, Germany Currently there are 92 artists confirmed.
Aeternitas (D) Ah Cama-Sotz (B) And Also The Trees (UK) Angel Theory (AUS) Angels & Agony (NL) Anne Clark (UK) *acoustic* Apoptygma Berzerk (N) ASP (D) Astrovamps (USA) European premiere Atargatis (D) Beseech (S) Bloody, Dead & Sexy (D) Chamber (D) Coinside (D) Collection D ´Arnell Andrea (F) Darkseed (D) Darkwell (A) Darkwood (D) Das Ich (D) Die Krupps (D) Dive (B) Down Below (D) Elane (D) Eva O. (USA) FAQ (CH) Faun (D) Fictional (D) Fiddlers Green (D) Flowing Tears (D) Frank The Baptist (USA) Girls Under Glass (D) Golden Apes (D) Greyhound (D) Human Disease (I) I, Synthesist (USA) Ikon (AUS) In My Rosary (D) Iris (USA) Kiew (D) Love Is Colder Than Death (D) Massiv In Mensch (D) Mechanical Moth (D) Melotron (D) Merlons Lichter (D) Midnattsol (N/D) Mona Mur (D) Mono Inc. (D) Mono No Aware (D) Mordorn (D) Morthem Vlade Art (F) Mortiis (N) MS Gentur (D) Mystigma (D) Nebelhexe (N) Neuroticfish (D) Nik Page & The Sacrified Army (D) Novakill (AUS) On The Floor (D) Patty Moon (D) Paul Roland (UK) Penumbra (P) Potentia Animi (D) Psyche (D) Ravenous (D) Regicide (D) Scream Silence (D) SHNARPH (D) Silent Pain (D) Sleeping Children (F) Sonne Hagal (D) Steril (D) premiere on stage Stoa (D) Subway To Sally (D) Tanzwut (D) The Beautiful Disease (D) The Groupies (D) The Human League (UK) exclusive gig The Invincible Sex (D) The Last Days Of Jesus (SK) The Skeletal Family (UK) The Wounded (NL) Tiamat (S) Transit Poetry (D) Umbra Et Imago (D) Underwater Pilots (D) Visage (UK) Visions Of Atlantis (A) Welle:Erdball (D) Xotox (D) Xylonite Ivy (D) Zeraphine (D) Zeromancer (N)
If you read this text, means to you development of a underground on our stage is not indifferent.
The city of Rechitsa was always glorified by amateurs metal music, not only in the country, but also behind her limits. In this connection group APOCRYPHAL as organizers have decided once again it to prove.
In July Byelorussia celebrates “Day of Independence”. We as have decided to take part in this action, and to organize Open Air Metal Fest “ NEZALEŽNASĆ -2005 ”.
Dear groups and single singers! We invite you to take part in Belarussian festival of extrim music! We are interested in sponsors and information support. So, welcome!
Mikael Akerfeldt has been confirmed as the vocalist for the first and last BLOODBATH gig. This will take place at Germany's famous Wacken open air festival on the 4th of August. The band will perform songs from all three albums including the non-Akerfeldt death-bomb "Nightmares Made Flesh" that featured Peter Tagtgren on vocals. The all star line-up will consist of: Anders Nystrom (KATATONIA), Jonas Renkse (KATATONIA), Dan Swano (legendary multi musician), Martin Axenrot (NIFELHEIM, WITCHERY etc) and Mikael Akerfeldt.
OPETH will be entering Fashination street studios on March 15 to record their 8th yet untitled opus. The band are currently in rehearsal mode, which is a rare occasion having recorded the last 4 records without rehearsing. The recording will be overseen by the uprising recording mogul Jens Bogren. As of today no names for production duties have surfaced and it looks like the next record will be a band produced effort. Nothing has been decided regarding who's taking care of the mix either so we'll have to keep you wondering.
Britain's MY DYING BRIDE are putting the finishing touches on their second DVD, "Sinamorata", tentatively due in April.
The disc will reportedly include live footage (12 songs) shot on November 2, 2003 in Antwerpen, Belgium, as well as backstage extras, the "The Blue Lotus" video (exclusive to this DVD) directed and conceived by David Palzer, the "Prize of Beauty" promotional clip, two videos made by MY DYING BRIDE fans ("Hope the Destroyer" and "My Wine In Silence") and a photo gallery featuring fan-created artwork inspired by the band's music.
Former LOST HORIZON mebers Daniel Heiman (vocals) and Fredrik Olsson (guitar) have joined forces in a brand new new project called HEED. The group, whose current lineup is completed by drummer Mats Karlsson (stand-in drummer for LOST HORIZON's Spanish tour), recently completed work on a two-song recording at Bohus studio with producers Tobias Lindell and Dragan Tanaskovic of Bohus Entertainment. Download audio samples from the group's official web site: "Tears of Prodigy" (' ) and "Moments" (' ).
Swedish melodic death metallers SOLAR DAWN have officially split up. A statement from the group reads as follows: "Ladies and gentlemen, we have decided to bury SOLAR DAWN once and for all! Eight years have passed since the day we gave birth to this melodic monster and time has taken its toll, to an ever increasing extent. Somewhere along the line we somehow began losing our hearts to SOLAR DAWN and without genuine commitment, there's really no point in continuing. "We'd like to thank everyone who has contributed, in any way, to the history of SOLAR DAWN, as well as we'd like to take off our hats to all of you who have bought our albums, showed up at the gigs, visited this site and so on! You will not be forgotten! This is where it all ends..." SOLAR DAWN's full-length debut, "Equinoctium", was released in March 2002 via Mighty Musicabbermouth.net
Italy's VOID OF SILENCE have announced their decision to go their separate ways. The group's official statement on the matter reads as follows:
"After 11 years since we started this adventure, after six years since the band started its official activities and after three albums released together as VOID OF SILENCE, we decided to put an end to this band. We took this decision with sadness and bitterness, also we must admit we yet reached our initial goal.
We would like to thank our worlwide fans, those who always trusted us and those who supported us along the way. A special thank you to Fabban and Alan Nemtheanga, who gave us the possibility to release such incredible albums, and to the whole Code666 staff, always supportive towards our music. A great hail also to our old friends Andrea Toro, Alessandro Bianchi, Riccardo Tran and Fabio Restano, who were beside us in the beginning.
We are not leaving the musical scene, just we will wear different dresses and walk different ways, together as usual. Maybe one day things will run in a different way, who knows..."
Long-running Dutch death/thrash metal band THANATOS are busy writing new songs for their fifth full-length album, to be recorded before the end of the year.
THANATOS' fourth album, "Undead. Unholy. Divine", was released last summer 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).
Swedish thrashers DARKANE have posted several new photos from the recording sessions for the group's new studio album at ' .
As previously reported, Nuclear Blast Records has set a June 27 European release date for the new CD from DARKANE, entitled "Layers of Lies". Songtitles set to appear on the album include "Secondary Effect", "Fading Dimensions", "Organic Canvas", "The Creation Insane" and the projected title track. A video for "Secondary Effect" will be filmed during the coming weeks.
DARKANE's last studio album, "Expanding Senses", was released in 2002 via Nuclear Blast.
German melodic black/death metallers SUIDAKRA have posted the cover artwork for their seventh album, "Command to Charge", at this location. "Command to Charge", is scheduled for release on April 25 via Armageddon Music. A limited-edition digipack containing bonus material will also be available. The follow-up to 2003's "Signs for the Fallen", "Command to Charge" was recorded at Gernhard studio in Siegburg, Germany. Mastering duties were handled at the Monoposto Mastering Studio (DIE TOTEN HOSEN, SCORPIONS, TITO & TARANTULA etc.). Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Decibel Dance", "Reap The Storm", "The Alliance", "Strange Perfection", "Second Skin", "C14_Measured By Infinity", "The End Beyond Me", "Dead Man's Reel" (instrumental), "A Runic Rhyme" (acoustic), "Gathered In Fear" (acoustic) and "Moonlight Shadow" (MIKE OLDFIELD cover). SUIDAKRA will be teaming up with HOLY MOSES, ILLDISPOSED and REGICIDE for the Wacken Open Air Roadshow 2005 German tour beginning in early May.
Swedish "gothic metallers" BESEECH have been confirmed for the Wave Gotik Treffen festival, set to take place May 13-16 in Leipzig, Germany. Other bands scheduled to perform at the festival include TIAMAT, DIE KRUPPS, ZEROMANCER, FLOWING TEARS, APOPTYGMA BERZERK, MIDNATTSOL, TANZWUT, SUBWAY TO SALLY and VISIONS OF ATLANTIS.
For more information, visit www.wave-gotik-treffen.de.
As previously reported, BESEECH have set "Sunless Days" as the title of their fifth studio album, tentatively due late summer through Napalm Records. The follow-up to last year's "Drama" is being recorded at StudioMega in Varberg, Sweden and is set to include the following tracks, among others: "Everytime I Die", "Last Obsession" and "A Bittersweet Tragedy".
BESEECH will make their next live appearance on March 26 at Club 7:e Himlen in Borås, Sweden. Also scheduled to appear is the famous Swedish horror poet and musician IODINIE JUPITER plus one band more that will be announced soon.
Rolling Stone magazine has posted its chart of 2004's biggest money-earners in music on its web site. METALLICA came in at Number Three on the list, raking in $43 million on their "Madly In Anger With The World" tour, as well as through sales of 1.4 million copies of their catalog. Other hard rock bands that made the Top 50 list are LINKIN PARK, VAN HALEN, EVANESCENCE, AEROSMITH, KISS and RUSH.
The annual Rolling Stone list is based on ticket and record sales, as well as publishing royalties and other forms of revenue.
Hard rock's biggest moneymakers in 2004 (ranking represents position on the Top 50 list):
03. METALLICA - $43.1 Million
On The Road: The band's "Madly in Anger With the World" tour was the fourth-biggest in North America last year.
On CD: The members of METALLICA don't need to lift a finger, or bang a head, to earn million-dollar-plus salaries. Credit goes to a shrewd mid-1990s renegotiation with Elektra Records by the band's management company and consistent sales for catalog albums. METALLICA perennials the "Black Album" and "Master of Puppets" helped the band sell 1.4 million units from catalog alone in 2004. They earn close to three dollars for each CD — which might help explain their aversion to file-trading.
On The Side: METALLICA haven't yet eked out a profit from the theatrical and DVD release of their soul-baring documentary, "Some Kind of Monster", which they co-own with its directors. But it can't hurt their financial picture that they finally canned the $40,000-a-month therapist seen in the film.
Last year's rank: 5
09. LINKIN PARK - $33.1 Million
On The Road: The tireless sextet embarked on three separate tours in 2004 — the "Projekt Revolution" package with KORN and SNOOP DOGG, a U.S. solo outing and an overseas jaunt. The total haul: $35 million.
On CD: "Meteora" (2003) and last year's "Collision Course" — the CD/DVD document of their MTV mash-up collaboration with JAY-Z — each sold more than 1 million copies. Another CD, "Live in Texas", sold another 440,000.
Last year's rank: NA
11. VAN HALEN - $30.2 Million
On The Road: High hopes for the first VAN HAGAR tour in eight years led to guarantees of up to $1 million a night, but ticket sales fell short. So, even as it counts a $38 million 2004 gross, the band will have to settle for less upfront next time.
On CD: Catalog sales amounted to slightly fewer than 500,000 units in 2004; publishing royalties brought in nearly $2 million.
On The Side: The band added to tour revenue by selling T-shirts and hats at the impressive rate of ten dollars per person.
Last year's rank: NA
27. EVANESCENCE - $18.9 Million
On The Road: Amy Lee and her band were anything but evanescent in 2004, playing to 1 million fans at seventy shows in the U.S. and overseas. The tour hit larger venues abroad, helping them gross $30 million.
On CD: The band's debut, "Fallen", sold more than 11 million copies worldwide, making EVANESCENCE one of the only rock bands in 2004 to earn as much from record royalties as they did from touring. Lee still splits the band's publishing royalties with departed guitarist Ben Moody, with whom she shared songwriting credits for the first album.
On The Side: Lee earned several hundred thousand dollars for "Broken", a duet with her boyfriend, SEETHER's Shaun Morgan, which appeared on the soundtrack of "The Punisher", a Marvel Comics adaptation.
Last year's rank: NA
35. AEROSMITH - $16 Million
On The Road: The group earned $450,000 a night in '04 — about half of what it made on its last tour.
On CD: Last year's blues album "Honkin' on Bobo" moved about 550,000 copies.
On The Side: AEROSMITH's music is a hot commodity in advertising: Last year the group licensed "Dream On" to Buick for a reported $2 million.
Last year's rank: 25
38. KISS - $13.7 Million
On The Road: They earned $13.1 million on their farewell tour.
On The Side: The KISS licensing juggernaut — from T-shirts to band-theme coffins — brought in at least $5 million.
Last year's rank: 26
39. RUSH - $13.3 Million
On The Road: The Canadian power trio grossed $21 million on its latest U.S. tour — more than KISS or Ozzfest.
On The Side: Sales were strong for the 2003 "Rush in Rio" DVD.
A brand new ABORTED track, entitled "Dead Wreckoning", has been posted online at the French webzine VS-Webzine.com.
"Dead Wreckoning" comes off the Belgian gory death metallers' new album, "The Archaic Abattoir", due in March via Listenable Records.
"The Archaic Abattoir" was mixed at Antfarm Studios in Denmark with producer Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, PANZERCHRIST, MNEMIC, EKTOMORF, DESTINY). Guest vocal appearances on the album include Bo Summer (ILLDISPOSED), Michael Bogballe (MNEMIC) and Jacob Bredahl (HATESPHERE). A "sneak peek" at the album cover can be found at ' . The complete artwork will be revealed shortly.
"The Archaic Abattoir" final track listing:
01. Dead Wreckoning 02. Blood Fixing The Bled 03. Gestated Rabidity 04. Hecatomb 05. The Gangrenous Epitaph 06. The Inertia 07. A Cold Logistic Slaughter 08. Voracious Haemoglobinic Syndrome 09. Threading On Vermillion Deception 10. Descend To Extirpation
The New York Post is reporting that Rick Rubin has signed a deal with Warner Bros. Records to house American Recordings — home to veteran Los Angeles thrashers SLAYER. This brings American back to its former home, following stops at Columbia and Island Def Jam. It also reconnects Rubin with Lyor Cohen, who inked American to Island Def Jam before becoming the U.S. head of Warner Music Group.
SLAYER had previously announced that they were putting the recording sessions for their new album on hold while Rubin began negotiating a new deal for American. Rubin has worked with SLAYER since he produced the band's 1986 thrash classic "Reign in Blood", and his status is expected to greatly affect the level of support American gives any new album.
Norwegian metallers THUNDRA, featuring former members of EINHERJER and ENSLAVED, have completed work on their sophomore album, "Worshipped by Chaos", tentatively due this spring via Karmageddon Media subsidiary New Aeon Media. The group, who were previously signed to Spinefarm Records, recorded and mixed the album at Black Dimension Studio with Stein Sund. "Worshipped by Chaos" contains nine "epic" tracks, with a running time of almost 58 minutes.
According to a posting on HOLY MOSES' official web site, the title of the group's upcoming album will be "Strength Power Will Passion" and not "Strange Power Will Passion", as previously announced.
The group's tenth album, "Strength Power Will Passion" is scheduled for release on May 23 via Armageddon Music. 22 songs and over 80 minutes of music were reportedly laid down at the band's Absurd studio for the follow-up to 2002's "Disorder of the Order" (Century Media). Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Symbol of Spirit", "Examination", "Lost Inside", "I Will", "Angel Cry", "Rebirthing", "Space Clearing", "End of Time", "Death Bells (II)", "Channeling" and "Sacred Crystals". Cover artwork will be handled Markus Mayer.
This summer traditionally will take place METAL HEADS MISSION. As usual on the coast of The Black Sea, near Evpatoria, Ukraine. This year the event will strength for 3 days.
The possible bands to play on fest are NAPALM DEATH, CRABATOR, ALIENATION MENTAL, CEREBRAL TURBULENCY, DEAD INFECTION, SQUASH BOWELS, SANATORIUM, CENOTAPH and other great groups from Finland, Czech Rep., Turkey, Germany, Slovakis, Israel. Don't forget the best collectives from Ukraine, Russia, Belarus and Moldova! If you want to play on MHM, contact the organisers at ' . Totally 50 bands will perform on fest.
The official webpage of MHM is almost ready. There you will be able to see the last information about fest line-up and get the answers for all your questions.
Don't forget, that festival will take place August 5, 6, 7 in entertaining complex "Sun", on the Black Sea coast.
Brazilian thrashers SEPULTURA are in the process of writing material for their new studio album, which is said to be based on the "The Divine Comedy", widely considered the greatest epic poem of Italian literature, and one of the greatest of world literature.
The band "have what they call 'ideas' for 18 songs, that means parts of songs with no final structure," reads a posting on the group's web site. "The next step is to record a pre-demo and start putting the pieces together."
WITHIN Y, the Swedish melodic death metal band featuring former GARDENIAN drummer Thim Blom, have announced the addition of guitarist Niknam Moslehi to the group's ranks. Moslehi joins the band as the replacement for Niklas Almen, who left the group late last year.
SINERGY, the acclaimed Finnish metal band featuring singer Kimberly Goss and CHILDREN OF BODOM members Alexi Laiho (guitar) and Roope Latvala (guitar), have spent the past few months quietly recording their fourth full-length album, tentatively due in late 2005 through Nuclear Blast Records. Goss has provided BLABBERMOUTH.NET with the following update on the recording sessions for the follow-up to 2001's "Suicide By My Side":
"SINERGY does indeed still exist, though the absence of our website and having only played two gigs in the past six months may lead people to believe otherwise.
"Our fourth album will be called 'Sins of the Past'. We started recording drums and bass in June of last year at Finnvox Studios, and have continued recording the rest of it at Beyond Abilities Studios (the studio of Janne Wirman from CHILDREN OF BODOM). However, we've had to record the album in separate sections due to CHILDREN OF BODOM's busy touring schedule last year. We've sometimes had to take several months off in between recording.
"Alexi just got his cast off last week [after suffering a broken arm in a fall in December], but still needs to wear a brace for another few weeks. He's able to play guitar now, but we're gonna wait until he's 100 percent recovered before he finishes his leads on the album. In the meantime, myself and Roope have been busy recording our parts. The album will then be mixed and mastered at Finnvox when the recording is finished.
"All I can say is that we are hopeful that the album will be released sometime this year. We'll have a new website up once the artwork for the new album is finished."
SALEM is currently in the recording studio, putting the final touches to their up and coming release "No Strings Attached", scheduled to be out this coming April through a local distributor in Israel, The End Records in North America and Raven Music for the rest of the world.
"No Strings Attached" contains 11 songs from the band's past repertoire and one brand new song, all re-arranged to be played with one of the most respected all-girl Srting Quartets in the country.
NAPALM DEATH will be embarking on a European tour with MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD and DIECAST beginning on June 1. The trek is expected to last six weeks. Exact cities and dates will be announced soon.
NAPALM DEATH's new album, "The Code is Red...Long Live the Code", is scheduled for release in Europe on April 25 via Century Media Records.
"The Code Is Red… Long Live The Code" was recorded at Foel Studios with producer Russ Russell and features guest appearances by Jello Biafra (ex-DEAD KENNEDYS), Jamey Jasta (HATEBREED) and Jeff Walker (ex-CARCASS). The complete track listing for the CD can be found at this location.
German power metallers ANGEL DUST, featuring guitarist Bernd Aufermann (RUNNING WILD) alongside Dirk Thurisch (vocals), Steven Banx (keyboards) and Dirk Assmuth (drums), have finished writing 12 songs for their new album and are preparing to enter the studio to begin recording the effort, tentatively due later in the year.
In other news, Aufermann has revealed in a posting on his web site that he will be making several guest appearances with CIRCLE II CIRCLE on their upcoming European tour. Aufermann wrote two songs for the new CIRCLE II CIRCLE album, "Middle of Nowhere", due on March 29 via AFM Records.
New York-based metal band HAVOCHATE, now featuring former TESTAMENT bassist Greg Christian, have signed a new worldwide deal with Indecent Media. The group's sophomore album, "Cycle of Pain", is scheduled for release on March 15.
Jurgen Korduletsch, president of dance and pop label Radikal Records, established Indecent Media in the fall of 2004 with a focus on finding, releasing, and developing rock and alternative artists.
HAVOCHATE is one of the label's first signings. The group caught Korduletsch's ear with their 2003 debut, "This Violent Earth". Impressed with the group's level of musicianship and the guitar virtuosity of Ordine — HAVOCHATE's founder and leader — he convinced the group to start working on a new album immediately.
"I almost fell out of my chair when I heard the album for the first time," said Korduletsch. "It is a tremendous collision of great songs and brutal force playing."
The follow-up to "This Violent Earth", which was released through Root Of All Evil Records, "Cycle of Pain" is being described as a "marked growth" from its predecessor, brought on partially by the band's revamped lineup. Joining Ordine are vocalist Tim Bouchee, who joined the band early last year; Mario Rodriguez, who was added as second guitarist after the recording of the first album; Christian; and drummer Ovie Rodriguez. Tracklist: 01. Cold Embrace 02. Cycle of Pain 03. Fiction 04. Alone 05. Speak No More 06. Rotting Hour 07. Crack in the Sky 08. Tentacle 09. Still Alive 10. Wicked 11. Buried in Lies
Audio samples of all 11 tracks are available for download at ' .
BEHEMOTH's video for the track "Conquer All", taken from their latest album, "Demigod", will receive its "Headbanger's Ball" premiere this Saturday, February 5 at 10:00 p.m. EST on MTV2. Download the video at ' .
The "Conquer All" clip was directed by Joanna Rechnio and "the whole filming session took us about 11 hours," BEHEMOTH frontman Nergal said in a statement. "I believe we did a great job. It's for sure the best thing we have done so far."
"Demigod" was mixed by BEHEMOTH frontman Nergal and producer Daniel Bergstrand (MESHUGGAH, IN FLAMES) at Dug-Out studios in Uppsala, Sweden. Mastering duties were handled at the Cutting Room studios in Stockholm. A guest appearance by NILE's Karl Sanders is included in the track "Xul".
"Demigod" was released in October via Regain Records in Europe, Mystic Records in Poland, Raven Music in Israel and Irond in Russia.
SUBLIMINAL CRUSHER are currently in the recording studio to begin working on their yet unnamed first full-length record, tentatively due on late spring. The tracklist counts 11 tracks, and some of the track names are "Unfertile Suggestions", "A Poetry", "Slavery", "Fuck-simile". A cover version of a TESTAMENT classic will also be recorded, to be included as a bonus track at the end of the album.
German progressive metallers VANDEN PLAS have posted the following message on their official web site:
"The name for the new VANDEN PLAS album has been chosen: It will be a concept album called 'Christ 0' ('Christ Zero'). It's a modern adaptation of Alexandre Dumas' book 'Monte Cristo'. The band is also working on a rock opera based on the same concept, but the regular VANDEN PLAS album is their main priority. Even though the band has been working on theater-oriented material for their rock opera, 'Christ Zero' will be a very heavy album. The band has written more than 25 songs and will chose about 15 of them to work on the arrangements for the album. The leftover material will be used for the rock opera.
"In a recent interview with the French webzine Progressia.net, [vocalist] Andy Kuntz said that the band hasn't abandoned the project of releasing a DVD. They're thinking about recording a full-length show during the tour following the release of 'Christ 0'.
SHAITAN MAZAR, the new band featuring former NILE members Chief Spires (bass, vocals) and John Ehlers (guitar), have posted audio samples from their recently completed full-length CD, "Catalyst of Amalgamation", at ' .
Commented Chief: "We are very excited about the release of this CD. It contains the heart, sweat, soul and commitment from each member of this band. Now that we have it in our hands we can put it in your ears. We will now begin the label shopping process and I'm working on some touring coming up real soon. Thanks to everyone all around the world for your support, and patience. I will see all of you again real soon."
"Catalyst of Amalgamation" track listing:
01. Beneath 02. Rite of Passage 03. The Final Nail 04. Truth Defies Reason 05. Blame 06. Taste the Sun 07. Homage 08. Fallen Forsaken 09. Baptizm (2005)
California death-grind band DISGORGE entered Black Beard Studio in late 2004 to begin recording their Crash Music Inc. debut, "Parallels of Infinite Torture", tentatively due out in the spring.
"We are near the end of our mixing stage, all tracks where laid down in December and sound blistering!" the band write in a statement. "We have put a lot of time into making this the best sounding DISGORGE album to date! There will also be a enhanced track on this pressing!
"We are awaiting Crash Music Inc. to give us an official release date and as soon as our new web site is complete we will have a sample song to download for all of you who have been patiently waiting! Also we are gathering footage for DVD, so if anyone has footage of DISGORGE please contact us on our web site at www.disgorge-usa.com."
DISGORGE had previously released two albums through the Unique Leader label: "She Lay Gutted" (1999) and "Consume the Forsaken" (2001).
Norwegian black metallers GORGOROTH have signed a deal with Sweden's Regain Records. The group recently completed the drum tracks for their new album, "Ad Majorem Sathanas Gloriam", at Lydriket Studios in Norway for a tentative late spring/early summer release.
GORGOROTH were most recently signed to Nuclear Blast Records, who released the band's last three efforts: "Twilight of the Idols" (2003), "Incipit Satan" (2000) and "Destroyer" (1998).
GORGOROTH recently inked a deal with the French label Season of Mist for the reissues of their first three albums: "Pentagram" (1994), "Antichrist" (1996) and "Under the Sign of Hell" (1997). All three will be re-released on February 17 in a remastered, digipack version.
Fans of the Swedish heavy metal band HAMMERFALL will be able to chat with Oscar Dronjak (guitars) and Joacim Cans (vocals) at ' on Thursday, February 3 beginning at 2:00 p.m. (CET).
As previously reported, HAMMERFALL's video for their new single, "Blood Bound", has been posted online at ' .
HAMMERFALL will release their new album, "Chapter V: Unbent, Unbowed, Unbroken", on March 7 via Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Crimson Thunder" was produced and mixed by Charlie Bauernfeind (BLIND GUARDIAN, HELLOWEEN).
DARK TRANQUILLITY's new album, "Character", has entered the Italian chart at No. 57 and the Finnish chart ay No. 30. As previously reported, "Character" debuted in the band's native Sweden at No. 3.
DARK TRANQUILLITY have just kicked off a huge European tour with KREATOR, HATESPHERE and EKTOMORF, which runs through March 7 at the Helsinki Icehall for the "Tuska Winter War" festival (with CRADLE OF FILTH and others). One month later, the American soil will get to experience DARK TRANQUILLITY on tour with SOILWORK, HYPOCRISY and MNEMIC.
Finland's THYRANE have parted ways with guitarist Avather due to "personal reasons." A replacement guitarist has yet to be announced. THYRANE, who last summer announced the addition of session drummer Kristonic (a.k.a. T. Kristian, YEARNING, SAATTUE, CARCASE INC.) to the group's ranks, released their third full-length effort, "Hypnotic", in 2003 through Century Media Records. The album, which was released in Finland through Spikefarm Records, was mixed at SundiCoop Studios and mastered at Finnvox Studios.
PARADISE LOST have uploaded the video for their new single, "Forever After", at their official web site. Check it out: ' , ' (Real Media). The video, which will only be available online for the weekend, was recently filmed in Berlin with director Volker Hannwacker. Photos from the video shoot can be found at this ' .
As previously reported, "Forever After" has reached No. 5 on the German Deutsche Alternative Charts (DAC). View the whole chart ' .
"Forever After" (view cover ' ) will be released on February 14 in two versions. One will be a standard three-track single, the other will be a limited-edition five-track CD with a bonus DVD. PARADISE LOST's new self-titled album (view cover ' ) — named in celebration of the group's 10th studio album since their full-length debut, "Lost Paradise", was released in 1990 — was recorded primarily at Chapel Studios in Lincolnshire, England under the guidance of producer Rhys Fulber (FEAR FACTORY, FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY). The follow-up to 2002's "Symbol of Life" is the group's first CD to feature drummer Jeff Singer (ex-BLAZE).
"Paradise Lost" is scheduled for release on February 28 through G.U.N. Records.
Dutch "atmospheric blackened thrash-death metal" band AS IT BURNS have entered Franky's Recording Kitchen studio with producer Jens van der Valk (AUTUMN, CANTARA) to begin recording their new CD, tentatively titled "Global Ruin". The follow-up to 2003's "Mortal Dusk" is expected late spring/early summer through an as-yet-undisclosed label (the band were previously signed to now-defunct Cold Blood Industries).
In January, CELL DIVISION has been at the Thommy Hein studio in Berlin to record two new songs: „Dirge For The Doomed“ and „Shut Up“. The first single „Dirge For The Doomed“ – an anti-war song - will be released in May 2005 on T:D:M Thunderdome. Additionally, there will be an exclusive DJ remix from Zeraphine of „Dirge For The Doomed“ on the single. The band also shooted a videoclip in Berlin and Zurich, where the actor John Keogh (The Pianist, Around the world in 80 days, etc.) plays a dead soldier. The videoclip is produced by Jacques a Bale Pictures, Los Angeles.
THE FLAMING ARTS Booking Agency presents The biggest event of the early 2005 on CIS metal-scene - DEMIGOD Eastern Europe Tour 2005 BEHEMOTH (Poland) + NEOLITH (Poland) 12.03 - Minsk (Belarus) 13.03 - Sankt-Peterburg (Russia) 14.03 - Ufa (Russia) - without NEOLITH 15.03 - Ekaterinburg (Russia) - without NEOLITH 17.03 - Tomsk (Russia) - without NEOLITH 18.03 - Rostov-on-Don (Russia) 19.03 - Moscow (Russia) 20.03 - Rjazan (Russia) 21.03 - Voronezh (Russia) 22.03 - Kiev (Ukraine)
Speaks Vadim Homich, tour organiser, BHEMOTH manager in Eastern Europe and THE FLAMING ARTS owner: "We are really happy, thwe got the ability to organise concerts of BEHEMOTH here again. Unfortunately, we had to leave only 10 concerts (were planning 17). But we're glad, that each new tour gives us new cities, what shows the growth of our metal-scene. The second good news: BEHEMOTH will be supported by Polish unique death/black metal band NEOLITH. Group released their second full-length album in summer 2004 through THE FLAMING ARTS Records. So, people who will visit the tour concerts are able to feel the high quality of Polish metal".
In other news, The Flaming Arts also prepare DEVILYN Eastern Europe tour in May. Dates coming soon...
BLIND GUARDIAN frontman Hansi Kursch has posted the following message at the group's official web site:
"Though you have not heard a lot from us during the last months we have not been lazy at all. There are a lot of things going on at the moment. Just to mention a few: the DEMONS AND WIZARDS production is making good progress and the same can be said about the songwriting for the next BLIND GUARDIAN album which is at a very important point.
"Andre [Olbrich, guitar] and I have completed five songs for the new album and 10 songs for the orchestral project. Yesterday, we had a meeting with Charlie Bauerfeind (who is going to produce both albums) during which we have set up a rough schedule for the next months. We definitely will start the production within the year and it won't take as much time to accomplish it as it did with 'A Night at the Opera'.
"With regards to the next DEMONS AND WIZARDS album I am happy to tell you that five songs have been mixed for it already and that there are seven more to go. How many of them we are going to use for the regular album and how many we will use as bonus material I can't tell you right now. There are 11 Schaffer/Kursch songs and one cover tune. We will be done with everything mid-February. The album surely will be released in late spring, or early summer. I am very pleased with the songs and so is Jon [Schaffer, ICED EARTH mainman]. My favorite tune at the moment is called 'Touched by the Crimson King'. We have not spoken about an album title yet but have to make a decision rather soon. I will let you know."
BLIND GUARDIAN frontman Hansi Kursch has posted the following message at the group's official web site:
"Though you have not heard a lot from us during the last months we have not been lazy at all. There are a lot of things going on at the moment. Just to mention a few: the DEMONS AND WIZARDS production is making good progress and the same can be said about the songwriting for the next BLIND GUARDIAN album which is at a very important point.
"Andre [Olbrich, guitar] and I have completed five songs for the new album and 10 songs for the orchestral project. Yesterday, we had a meeting with Charlie Bauerfeind (who is going to produce both albums) during which we have set up a rough schedule for the next months. We definitely will start the production within the year and it won't take as much time to accomplish it as it did with 'A Night at the Opera'.
"With regards to the next DEMONS AND WIZARDS album I am happy to tell you that five songs have been mixed for it already and that there are seven more to go. How many of them we are going to use for the regular album and how many we will use as bonus material I can't tell you right now. There are 11 Schaffer/Kursch songs and one cover tune. We will be done with everything mid-February. The album surely will be released in late spring, or early summer. I am very pleased with the songs and so is Jon [Schaffer, ICED EARTH mainman]. My favorite tune at the moment is called 'Touched by the Crimson King'. We have not spoken about an album title yet but have to make a decision rather soon. I will let you know."
Sweden's WOLF have been confirmed for the Rock Hard Festival, set to take place May 13-15 at Amphitheater in Gelsenkirchen, Germany. The complete list of bands currently scheduled to perform at the festival is as follows:
ACCEPT AMON AMARTH CHILDREN OF BODOM COMMUNIC ENSIFERUM HEAVEN SHALL BURN HELLFUELED JON OLIVA'S PAIN MASTERPLAN OVERKILL PRETTY MAIDS SONATA ARCTICA THE HAUNTED THRESHOLD UNLEASHED WOLF
More information is available at RockHardFestival.de.
The End Records has set a March 22 North American release date for GREEN CARNATION's fourth studio album, "The Quiet Offspring".
Commented singer Kjetil Nordhus: "The End Records did a fantastic job for us on 'Light of Day, Day of Darkness', and we are exited about what Andreas [Katsambas, The End Records founder] and the others can do this time. We think we have made an album which in many ways are easier for a label to deal with than the earlier records, and we are looking forward to see what can be done in USA."
"The Quiet Offspring" (' ) was recorded at Sound Suite studio in Marseille, France and was produced by Terje Refsnes. The cover artwork was created by Niklas Sundin of Cabin Fever Media (IN FLAMES, ARCH ENEMY, DARK TRANQUILLITY). Audio samples of six cuts from the album can be downloaded at ' .
GREEN CARNATION, the Norwegian band featuring Tchort (a.k.a. Terje Vik Schei, ex-EMPEROR, SATYRICON, EINHERJER), recently parted ways with drummer Anders Kobro and replaced him with Tommy Jackson, a longtime fan and friend of the band.
German power metallers RUNNING WILD have uploaded a number of new promotional photos at ' .
As previously reported, RUNNING WILD will release their new album"Rogues En Vogue" (G.U.N./BMG Ariola) on February 21 — one week earlier than the previously announced February 28 release date.
To celebrate this event, the band are inviting everybody to attend their release party and pre-listen to the whole album together with guitarist/vocalist Rolf Kasparek and most of his bandmates on February 18 at Headbangers Ballroom in Hamburg, Germany. Tickets are available for 5 euros.
"Rogues En Vogue" (' ) track listing:
01. Draw the Line 02. Angel of Mercy 03. Skeleton Dance 04. Skulls & Bones 05. Born Dead, Dying Worse 06. Black Gold 07. Soul Vampires 08. Rogues en Vogue 09. Winged & Feathered 10. Dead Man's Road 11. The War 12. Cannonball Tongue (limited-edition bonus track) 13. Libertalia (limited-edition bonus track)
BLACKMORE'S NIGHT's track "Loreley" is the theme song of a new German "reality" series "Die Burg", which was scheduled to premiere Sunday, January 23. The program is said to be a reality-based show that will follow families as they try to live they way it was back in the Renaissance times.
BLACKMORE'S NIGHT recently released a compilation CD, "Beyond the Sunset - The Romantic Collection", which brings together 13 ballads from across their catalogue. "Once In a Million Years" is the sole new track on the collection, which also includes a remixed version of "Ghost of a Rose".
Blistering.com has compiled a list of the Top 10 PANTERA songs of all time as voted on by the web site's writing staff. A detailed commentary and description of each track by Jay Rajiva is also included.
Top 10 PANTERA songs of all time, according to Blistering.com:
01. Strength Beyond Strength (from 1994's "Far Beyond Driven") 02. Mouth For War (from 1992's "Vulgar Display Of Power") 03. Primal Concrete Sledge (from 1990's "Cowboys From Hell") 04. Walk (from 1992's "Vulgar Display Of Power") 05. Five Minutes Alone (from 1994's "Far Beyond Driven") 06. The Great Southern Trendkill (from 1996's "The Great Southern Trendkill") 07. This Love (from 1992's "Vulgar Display Of Power") 08. Slaughtered (from 1994's "Far Beyond Driven") 09. War Nerve (from 1996's "The Great Southern Trendkill") 10. Drag The Waters (from 1996's "The Great Southern Trendkill")
Sweden's IN FLAMES won the "P3 Guld" award from radio station P3 in the "Best Rock/Metal Album Of The Year" category (for their 2004 release "Soundtrack to Your Escape"). Other nominees in the "Rock/Metal" category included NASUM (for "Shift"), THE HIVES (for "Tyrannosaurus Hives"), THE HAUNTED (for "rEVOLVEr") and CULT OF LUNA (for "Salvation"). The award ceremony took place Saturday (Jan. 22) in Gothenburg, Sweden.
"Soundtrack to Your Escape" sold an impressive 10,659 copies in the United States during its first week of release in April 2004 to debut at No. 145 on The Billboard 200 chart. The album was recorded at a rented house/converted studio in Denmark with producers Daniel Bergstrand (MESHUGGAH, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD) and Цrjan Цrnkloo (ex-MISERY LOVES CO.) and was mixed at Galaxy Studios in Mol, Belgium. Mastering duties were handled at the Cutting Room in Stockholm, Sweden.
MANTAS, the new band featuring former VENOM guitarist Mantas, will be releasing a new six-song EP, entitled "Maximum Brutality", through Demolition Records via Universal distribution. No further information is currently available.
MANTAS' most recent release was a full-length album, "Zero Tolerance", available now from the Demolition Records online shop.
REBELLION, the German band that features in its ranks former GRAVE DIGGER members Uwe Lulis (guitar) and Tomi Göttlich (bass), have inked a long-term deal with Massacre Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Born a Rebel" will be the first part of a Viking trilogy and is scheduled for release late spring. A photo taken at the contract signing can be viewed at http://www.rebellion.st/img/massacredeal.jpg (l-r: REBELLION guitarist Björn Eilen, Tomi Goettlich, Thomas Hertler of Massacre Records, Uwe Lulis).
BRIDES OF DESTRUCTION have announced the addition of guitarist Ginger (THE WILDHEARTS) and bassist Scott Sorry (ex-AMEN) to the group's ranks. Ginger is scheduled to arrive in California from his native England on Sunday (Jan. 23) and spend the next two weeks assisting the rest of the group as they complete the songwriting process for their sophomore album.
As previously reported, BRIDES OF DESTRUCTION are scheduled to enter the studio on February 1 to begin recording the follow-up to last year's "Here Come the Brides", tentatively due in June. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "White Trash", "White Horse", "Blown Away", "Dead Man's Ruin", "Brotherhood" and "Criminal".
Swedish melodic metallers SUPREME MAJESTY have pushed back the release date for their third full-length album, "Elements of Creation", to March 28 from the previously announced February 28. The CD will include a bonus video containing footage from the making of the album. Artwork and layout will be done by C.A Interactive (KATATONIA, MORIFADE, AXENSTAR, SKYFIRE).
SUPREME MAJESTY issued their second album, "Danger", in September 2003 through Germany's Massacre Records. Several MP3 soundclips from the CD can be downloaded at ' The band recently replaced drummer Jocke Unger with Johan Rydberg (ex-SANZIA, IN BLACK).
Finnish power metal band legends Stratovarius have re-formed. The line-up of Timo Tolkki (guitar), Timo Kotipelto (vocals), JMichael (drums), Jari Kainulainen (bass) and Jens Johansson (keyboards) are working on songs for a new album
This year Arjen Anthony Lucassen is celebrating the 10th anniversary of his band project AYREON. To match this event, InsideOut is completing the new edition of the entire Ayreon back catalogue with the release of “The Final Experiment“ by the end of February. This reissue features the original recording of “Final Experiment“, disc two a large part of the album newly and semi-acoustically recorded.
For many JADIS fans, “More Than Meets The Eye“, debut album of guitarist and singer Gary Chandler’s band which was founded back in 1992, is still the best one. At the end of February it will be remixed and re-released featuring a bonus disc. This additional disc will contain rare and previously unreleased material, amongst other songs many demo tracks produced by Marillion’s Steve Rothery prior to the release of “More Than Meets The Eye“. In March, Jadis will record a new studio album, some of the material will be played live in three shows in Belgium, England, and the Netherlands in January and February.
At the end of January the new reissue label REVISITED RECORDS – A division of InsideOut Music is launched. Four albums by electronic pioneer KLAUS SCHULZE, worked up with high quality, mark the beginning of the new label, many more will follow. A new album by Schulze will be released via SPV soon. More reissues are to come with Revisited Records, for instance a big part of the back catalogue of Krautrock pioneers Amon Duul II.
Prog metal rockers SHADOW GALLERY have now signed to InsideOut Music. The six-piece band from the US is currently recording the successor to their 2000 studio release “Legacy“. The concept work with the working title “Room Five“ is connected to “Tyranny“ from 1998. Fans fo the genre regard all four so far released Shadow Gallery albums as classics.
“Hot Phish: Introducing the leading contenders for Phish’s jam-smeared crown” ? this headline was written by David Fricke, high class journalist with the American “Rolling Stone”, for his article about “Anchor Drops”, second album of jam rock band UMPHREY’S McGEE. Jam rock? This is a scene mostly flourishing in the United States and its protagonists provide live exitement as it once was the case with Greatful Dead or Little Feat, and today for instance Phish, the Dave Matthews Band, Widespread Panic, or Umphrey’s McGee, because they bubble over with improvisation. Umphrey’s McGee, the band of 28 year old guitarist and singer Brendan Bayliss plays up to 160 concert each year since 1999. InsideOut Music releases “Anchor Drops“ throughout Europe at the end of February. In March the band plays its first European gigs at the Amsterdam Melkweg.
DIMMU BORGIR bassist /vocalist Simen Hestnaes (a.k.a. ICS Vortex, ex-BORKNAGAR, LAMENTED SOULS) has officially rejoined ARCTURUS as the group's permanent vocalist. His first appearance back with the group will take place at the Inferno Festival kick-off event at the Underworld in London on January 27.
Hestnaes had previously performed vocals on three tracks and written the lyrics for one song on ARCTURUS' 1997 album, "La Masquerade Infernale".
ARCTURUS announced earlier this month that vocalist ?yvind H?geland (SPIRAL ARCHITECT) had left the group. No reason was given for his departure.
The cover artwork for the new PARADISE LOST single, "Forever After", has been posted online at this location.
"Forever After" is the first single off PARADISE LOST's upcoming self-titled effort, due on February 21 through G.U.N. Records. The "Forever After" single, which features backing vocals from Heather Thompson (TAPPING THE VEIN) and Leah Randi, will precede the album on February 7.
"Paradise Lost" — named in celebration of the group's 10th studio album since their full-length debut, "Lost Paradise", was released in 1990 — was recorded primarily at Chapel Studios in Lincolnshire, England under the guidance of producer Rhys Fulber (FEAR FACTORY, FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY). The follow-up to 2002's "Symbol of Life" is the group's first CD to feature drummer Jeff Singer (ex-BLAZE).
Sony Music U.K. has uploaded the cover artwork for JUDAS PRIEST's new album, "Angel of Retribution". Check it out at this location.
As previously reported, Epic will celebrate the reunion of the "Painkiller"-era JUDAS PRIEST lineup by issuing a DualDisc for the "Angel of Retribution" title. It is scheduled for March 1 and coinciding with the release of the CD.
"Angel of Retribution" track listing:
01. Judas Rising 02. Deal With The Devil 03. Revolution 04. Worth Fighting For 05. Demonizer 06. Wheels Of Fire 07. Angel 08. Hellrider 09. Eulogy 10. Lochness
IRON MAIDEN's reissue of their classic single, "The Number of the Beast", has entered the official Euro chart at No. 7. There are hopes for the single to stay in the Top 10 another week as the first-week numbers are based solely on U.K., Irish, Swiss and French chart positions (territories where the single was released first).
This is MAIDEN's highest entry on the Euro singles chart since "Man on the Edge" (No. 7) in 1995 and "Holy Smoke" (No. 6) in 1990.
As previously reported, EMI re-released "The Number of The Beast" as a single in celebration of IRON MAIDEN's phenomenal 25-year history and in keeping with the recent international chart success of their double DVD, "The Early Years".
According to a posting on his official web site, German guitarist AXEL RUDI PELL will appear at various summer festivals in Europe, like Bang Your Head and Wacken in Germany, and Graspop in Belgium. The plan is for PELL to record the next studio album in September/October for a January 2006 European release via SPV Records. A tour in support of the album will take place around March/April 2006.
Members of AYREON, FLOWER KINGS, EXMORTEM, KOLDBORN, MERCENARY, MANTICORA, URKRAFT, THE PSYKE PROJEKT, MNEMIC, BLAZING ETERNITY, SPECTRAL MORTUARY, VOLBEAT, KONKHRA, BEHEMOTH and JERKSTORE have provided Denmark's Antenna magazine with their personal Top Five highlights and biggest disappointments of 2004. Read the results ' .
Bassist Marko Pukkila of the Finnish melodic metallers ALTARIA has revealed in an online posting that he and drummer Tony Smedjebacka have been busy writing and pre-producing material for the third ALTARIA album. "So far we have come up with a few great tunes and it looks like the third, as-yet-untitled album will be heavier than 'Divinity' but will still be melodic with catchy melodies," he writes.
Bulgarian brutal death metal band ENTHRALLMENT have set "Smashed Brain Collection" as the title of their third album, tentatively due in the spring. The CD will be recorded at Marinov studio beginning on January 22 and will include nine songs. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Awaiting the Death", "Total Zombie Domination", "Mutant", "Disgruntled", "Supporting the Chaos and Hate", "Experiment With You", "Carnal Affection", "Smashed Brain Collection" and "Graveyard".
Finnish melodic power metallers THUNDERSTONE have commenced the mixing process for their third album at Timo Tolkki's (STRATOVARIUS) Goldenworks studio with producer/guitarist Nino Laurenne. 11 songs are being finalized, with the final track listing, album title and release date soon to be announced. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Tool of the Devil", "Welcome to the Real", "I Will Come Again", "Land of Innocence" and "Feed the Fire".
About 150 of the biggest names in rock and hard rock from Sweden have recorded a song that will be released in a couple of weeks on a special DVD to raise money through the Red Cross for the victims of the horrible earthquake and flood disaster in Asia.
The song "Where Is The Fire" (written by Tommy Denander, Bjorne Lindbom and Bernt Ek) was originally recorded a few years ago for the victims of 9/11, but was eventually pulled from that project because it "was very poorly handled by the people in charge," according to a press release. The song has been kept in a vault with the intention of donating it if and when something horrible would happen again....well, it doesn't get much worse than this.
This special DVD will include a documentary of how the song was recorded, a music video of the song plus 10-15 never-before-shown or very rare videos with great bands like EUROPE, TALISMAN , LION'S SHARE, PAIN and lots of other great stuff.
The following update has been posted at SYMPHONY X's official web site:
"As [singer] Russ' [Allen] solo CD was taking quite a bit longer than anticipated, & [guitarist] Mike Romeo was anxious to get going full force on the new SYMPHONY X CD, they both agreed that Russ would take his solo effort to another studio to complete the mixing. Russ is looking for a certain sound & said that Mike 'made the music sound too good'; Russ should be finishing up the final mix in the following week or so. In the meantime, Mike Romeo has begun working in earnest on the new SYMPHONY X CD with help from the other band members; we'll have more information here as it becomes available."
SATYRICON guitarists Steinar Gundersen and A.O. Gronbech were arrested and charged in Canada for drugging and raping a woman in the band's tour bus after a concert in Toronto.
"I can confirm that the Norwegian consul in Toronto has been in contact with the arrestees, and followed up by, among other things, visiting them in jail and obtaining legal assistance," said Anne Lene Dale Sandstein, press officer of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to Norwegian TV 2 Nettavisen. According to Canadian police, the crimes were committed after SATYRICON had performed at the club Fun Haus in Toronto last Tuesday (Dec. 14), reported the Norwegian newspaper Dagbladet.
"A woman from Toronto explained that she went with the two Norwegian musicians to their tour bus," said Kristin Bacharach at the Toronto police to the paper. There she was reportedly drugged and sexually assaulted. Bacharach confirmed that the two musicians have been arrested and are charged. DNA tests have been taken. If found guilty, the two musicians may be sentenced to ten years in prison. As a result of the musicians' arrests, the remaining dates on SATYRICON's North American tour with 3 INCHES OF BLOOD (including a New York show) were cancelled.
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.
WITHIN Y, the Swedish melodic death metal band featuring former GARDENIAN drummer Thim Blom, have parted ways with guitarist Niklas Almen. "[Niklas] just wants more time to do things on his own," the band write on their web site. "We will proceed writing new songs for the next album. The songs finished so far are a bit different than [the group's debut album] 'Extended Mental Dimensions', but still very powerful and raw!" "Extended Mental Dimensions" was released last March through Holland's Karmageddon Media (formerly Hammerheart Records). The CD was recorded and mixed during August and early September at Meta4Music Studios in Gothenburg, Sweden. Artwork was created by art-wizard Niklas Sundin of Cabin Fever Media.
The video for Israeli band ORPHANED LAND's ambitious song "Ocean Land" from their Century Media debut, "Mabool", has been posted online at ' . Shot in Israel, it is the band's first video, and was filmed in the midst of hundreds of Medusa jellyfish where the band got "jellied" repeatedly. Vocalist Kobi Farhi sang for hours underwater, and unintentionally drank gallons of water. Guitarist Matti also performed his guitar solo underwater. Commented Farhi: "It was a very hard day of working and we were on the set for 18 hours. We worked with a very famous actress named Hila Vidor and she was unbelievable. It was an inspiring adventure to work with her. If you ask me, she is the Queen of the Sea! I think that it's a great video and it's about time that you will all be able to watch it and judge for yourself." An MP3 of the song "Ocean Land" can be downloaded at ' .
German power metallers RUNNING WILD have finalized the track listing for their new album, "Rogues En Vogue", due on February 28, 2005 through G.U.N./ BMG Ariola. It is as follows:
01. Draw the Line 02. Angel of Mercy 03. Skeleton Dance 04. Skulls & Bones 05. Born Dead, Dying Worse 06. Black Gold 07. Soul Vampires 08. Rogues en Vogue 09. Winged & Feathered 10. Dead Man's Road 11. The War
A strictly limited-edition version of the album will contain two bonus tracks: "Cannonball Tongue" and "Libertalia".
Finnish melodic death metallers INSOMNIUM have made their entire 1999 demo available for free download at their official web site. Check it out it at ' .
INSOMNIUM, whose sophomore album, "Since the Day it All Came Down", was released in the U.S. in May via Candlelight Records, are currently writing material for their third CD, tentatively due in late 2005. "We have finished a few new songs already but there's still long way to go until we have whole new INSOMNIUM album in our hands," the band write on their web site. "If everything goes well we’ll enter studio probably somewhere in the next year."
Norwegian Metal band TRISTANIA, fronted by Vibeke Stene, will release their fourth album, "Ashes", through SPV Records in January. Fresh off a highly successful European tour with THERION and TRAIL OF TEARS, the band will support NIGHTWISH across Europe in February. Guitarist and main composer Anders H?yvik Hidle spoke to Garry Sharpe-Young of Rockdetector.com about launching a female-fronted metal band onto the U.S. market.
Read this immensely interesting interview at www.Rockdetector.com. A full TRISTANIA history, discography and gig guide can be found at this ' .
Swedish thrashers THE HAUNTED paid tribute to late DAMAGEPLAN/ex-PANTERA guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott and DAMAGEPLAN's bodyguard Jeff "Mathem" Thompson last night by requesting one minute of silence with devil's horns raised from everyone that attended their gig at the London Forum. Also appearing on the bill were ARCH ENEMY, DARK TRANQUILLITY and NIGHTRAGE.
THE HAUNTED will embark on a two-week U.K. headlining tour starting on February 24 at London's Mean Fiddler. The trek will also include MARTYR AD and DEAD TO FALL.
Indie-metal behemoths ISIS will be touring Australia for the first time in early Febrary. Support at the dates will come from THE STOCKHOLM SYNDROME. The details are as follows:
Feb. 10 - Brisbane, AUS @ The Rev Feb. 11 - Sydney, AUS @ Annandale Hotel Feb. 12 – St. Kilda, AUS @ Gershwin Room
ISIS will tour in support of their third full-length album, "Panopticon", released in October through Ipecac Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Oceanic", "Panopticon" was produced by Matt Bayles (MASTODON, PEARL JAM) and features a guest appearance on the track "Altered Course" by TOOL bassist Justin Chancellor. A deluxe double LP version through Robotic Empire Records features a "stunning" gatefold sleeve with different artwork than the CD version on Ipecac.
The first official event of the Greek Nightwish fanclub is happening on 23/12 called "SUOMI ROX" in Athens, Greece. More info can be found here: www.suomirocks.com
I am sincerely delighted to tell you one of the greatest piece of medieval music news of the end of the year. On the 16th of December Erebus Odora has released the new ARCANA album - Le Serpent Rouge. Peter Bjargo made a great new year present ot his fans.
This is ARCANA as you have never heard them before. We are all expecting the album to appear in the stores of Ukraine soon.
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.
Escapi Music has set a march 8, 2005 release date for the first-ever official DVD from TESTAMENT, entitled "Seen Between the Lines".
Originally released in 1991 on VHS, this fully re-mastered DVD contains live footage shot during TESTAMENT's 1991 world tour. As an extra bonus, the DVD will also include promotional videos for the songs "Nobody's Fault", "Practice What You Preach", "Souls of Black" and "The Legacy", rare video interview clips, "a dinner with TESTAMENT," scenes from the Japanese leg of the tour, plus additional discography, image gallery and biography sections.
Irish doom/death metal band MOURNING BELOVETH have set "A Murderous Circus" as the title of their album, due in March via Grau Records, a subsidiary of Prophecy Productions. The CD will feature five new songs with a running time of 75 minutes.
The track listing is as follows:
01. The Apocalypse Machine 02. Elemental Nausea 03. The Crashing Wave 04. Nothing (The March of Death) 05. …yet Everything
Members of Norwegian black metal bands MASSEMORD and SYKDOM have reportedly decided to join forces in a new group called HEKSERI. The band, who have inked a deal with Blackmetal.com Records, will be releasing their debut in February 2005. The group's musical direction is being described as "anti-human black metal" No further information is currently available.
Earache is proud to unveil the UK’s BEECHER as a new addition to the family as part of a multi-album worldwide recording deal.
Fusing the ethics of primal hardcore with a love for the technicalities and aggression of Metal, BEECHER have become known as one of the hardest working bands on the live circuit, treading the boards with the likes of DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN, THE RED CHORD, CULT OF LUNA and SIKTH and constantly winning converts with every new show.
Early 2004 will see a re-release on Earache for BEECHER's landmark 'Breaking the Fourth Wall' album with unreleased material, followed by the demo-ing of new material for the eventual recording of the debut for the label in the summer.
Guitarist Mark Lyons had this to say about the band's new status; "We are proud to be joining forces with one of the most prominent and influential extreme labels out there, and one of our favorite labels to date with an artist roster that mirrors our own music collections. We look forward to finally getting our records out worldwide!"
BEECHER play their last gig of 2004 at the Phoenix in Manchester on December 20th, before confirming more live work to be announced for 2005.
JUDAS PRIEST lead guitarist Glenn Tipton has told Launch Radio Networks that the title and cover art of the group's upcoming CD, "Angel of Retribution", refer to the angel featured on the jacket of the band's classic 1976 effort, "Sad Wings of Destiny". "Going back to the angel on the cover of 'Sad Wings Of Destiny', he's now risen up and he's the angel of retribution, so if you don't dig this, he's gonna come and get you basically, you know," Tipton said. "When you see the cover, you'll see what we're trying to — it'll all tie in."
As first reported here yesterday, songs set to appear on the band's first album with original singer Rob Halford in over 14 years include "Judas Rising", "Deal With The Devil", "Worth Fighting For", "Hellrider" and "Revolution", with the latter track expected to arrive at radio stations in early 2005.
KAMELOT will head to Sweden to shoot the videos for "March of Mephisto" and "The Haunting" with director Patric Ullaeus of Revolver Films (LACUNA COIL, DIMMU BORGIR, IN FLAMES).
"March of Mephisto" and "The Haunting" come off the group's new album, "The Black Halo", due on February 28, 2005 through SPV Records. The follow-up to last year's "Epica" was produced by Sascha Paeth and Miro at Gate and Pathway studios in Germany and features guest appearances by Shagrath (DIMMU BORGIR), Jens Johansson (STRATOVARIUS), Simone Simons (EPICA), Mari (MASQUERAID), as well as the KAMELOT choir, featuring Herbie Langhans (SEVENTH AVENUE), Amanda Somerville-Scharf, Miro, Gerit Gцbel, Thomas Rettke (HEAVEN'S GATE) and Elisabeth Kjaernes, among others.
SEVENDUST dedicated their song "Angel's Son" in memory of "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott, as well as the other victims of the Alrosa Villa shootings, during a headlining performance in Columbus Sunday (Dec. 12).
Commented Adam Schneider of local radio station 99.7 The Blitz, "I have never heard a more powerful performance in my many years of attending shows. The crowd sang along the entire time, with a shirt being thrown up on stage early on, a white t-shirt with Dimebag's photo from the current Damageplan.com site. [SEVENDUST] Lajon Witherspoon put in on to a rousing ovation.
"Later during the concert, SEVENDUST ended 'Face To Face' and immediately kicked into the end of PANTERA's 'Walk' — again to a huge crowd reaction.
"Overall, a truly powerful night in music — rock and metal will live on in Columbus!"
More Hate released in December: MHP 04-031 split CD BARBARITY/ KATALEPSY/ SMERSH/ POSTHUMOUS BLASPHEMER - the first part of CD-series, dedicated to grindcore/ goregrind/ brutal death metal, performing by CIs bands. Split includes 4 brutal brigades of CIS-underground! Kostroma-based (Russia) BARBARITY present 3 new in vein of necro old school death metal, and also as bonus track - cover NAPALM DEATH "Suffer the Children". Moscow group KATALEPSY plays original mix of grinding brutal death metal in vein of SUFFOCATION with some additions of psychodelic modern metal. SMERSH - speed anti-social grind core. And finally Belarussians POSTHUMOUS BLASPHEMER will bury you under the brutal death metal in vein of IMMOLATION, MORBID ANGEL.
The second part is in work. This part will include songs by ANAL NOSOROG (Moscow, Russia), MUTANT FACTOR (Moscow, Russia), PRECHYUDLIVYY ZARODYSH (Moscow, Russia).
Moscow black metal band ASHEN LIGHT finished the recordings of their new album, "Prachashcheniye Ognem". Early 2005 release through More Hate Productions is expected. Group will present the new effort in the middle January in R-club (Moscow, Russia).
Long-awaiting new album of modernized metal formation THERM. EYE. FLAME, "To Evolution?!", will be released in January 2005 through More Hate Productions.
In December through More Hate Productions will be relased: CD of Belarussian melodic death metal band ASGUARD, "Wicca", and also re-release of ASHEN LIGHT debut's, "Pesn' Velesa" ("Veles Song") with new design and previously unreleased tracks.
...NORD'N'COMMANDER for release "Hermeneutics" album. Band plays experimental, electronic blackened metal. CD will be released in February-March 2005.
...Kyiv-based band SEMARGL for release the debut effort "Attack on God". Group performs speed blasphemic black death metal. It was rcorded in famous Polish Hertz studios. CD will be released in February-March 2005.
...Ukrainian pagan black metal team NATURAL SPIRIT for release "Ruskolon'" album. CD will be released in March-April 2005.
Napalm Records has set a January 24, 2005 release date for the sophomore album from the Swedish gothic doom metal band DRACONIAN, entitled "Arcane Rain Fell". The follow-up to last year's "Where Lovers Mourn" was recorded at Studio Underground in Vдsterеs, Sweden and contains "more than 60 minutes of music," according to a posting on the group's web site. "The production turned out to be really magnificent and the song material is really strong, including the long awaited 16-minute epic 'Death, Come Near Me' (first time released on the 2002 demo 'Dark Oceans We Cry')," the posting adds. "No fan of dark and heavy doom/gothic metal should be disappointed. Prepare for a grand release of strong emotions, great drama and utter darkness." DRACONIAN manager and webmaster, Erik Arvidsson, has provided the lyrics for two songs and one was written by romantic poet John Clare. One was also penned by Ryan Henry (NECARE), who has provided all of the spoken verses for the release.
"Arcane Rain Fell" final track listing:
01. A Scenery of Loss 02. Daylight Misery 03. The Apostasy Canticle 04. Expostulation 05. Heaven Laid in Tears (Angel's Lament) 06. The Abhorrent Rays 07. The Everlasting Scar 08. Death, Come Near Me
Danny Dunford (a.k.a. Deege), one of the webmasters of the Zakk Wylde/BLACK LABEL SOCIETY fan site SDMFWorldwide.com, attended the concert in Columbus, Ohio last Wednesday which ended in the shooting death of DAMAGEPLAN/ex-PANTERA guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott and four others (including suspected gunman Nathan Gale). Dunford spoke to "The Classic Metal Show" Saturday night (Dec. 11) about the tragic events of that fateful night and offered what is being described as "the most complete account" of what transpired at the Alrosa Villa nightclub before and after Dimebag was shot.
GREEN CARNATION, the Norwegian band featuring Tchort (a.k.a. Terje Vik Schei, ex-EMPEROR, SATYRICON, EINHERJER), have posted the cover artwork for their fourth studio album, "The Quiet Offspring", '
"The Quiet Offspring" is scheduled for release in February 2005 via Season of Mist.
GREEN CARNATION recently parted ways with drummer Anders Kobro and replaced him with Tommy Jackson, a longtime fan and friend of the band.
Finland's NIGHTWISH have been confirmed as the support act for MÖTLEY CRÜE on June 10 at the Spektrum in Oslo, Norway.
As previously reported, NIGHTWISH will be teaming up with ANGRA for a Japanese tour next March. A U.K. tour will take place in February. A North American headlining tour with SONATA ARCTICA will kick off April 18, 2005 in Minneapolis.
Massacre records is planning to release the new DARKSEED album "Ultimate Darkness" on the 24th of January. The CD was recorded in Helion Studio (Munich).
Tracklist: 1. Disbeliever 2. My Burden 3. Ultimate Darkness 4. Biting Cold 5. The Dark One 6. Save Me 7. Speak Silence 8. Next to Nothing 9. Follow Me 10. The Fall 11. Endless Night 12. Sleep Sleep Sweetheart
Bassist Jukka-Pekka Miettinen of the Finnish folk-influenced melodic death metal band ENSIFERUM has resigned from the band for "personal reasons," according to a posting on the group's official web site. "He doesn't have time for ENSIFERUM anymore," the posting adds.
"Miettinen will play in the two last gigs this year in X mass festival December 18, 2004 in Holland and December 19, 2004 in Belgium. A new bass player is found for ENSIFERUM. Bass will be played by Sami Hinkka."
Producer Andy Sneap (MACHINE HEAD, ARCH ENEMY, SKINLAB, MASTERPLAN) is reportedly remixing NEVERMORE's "Enemies of Reality" album for re-release via the Century Media label in early 2005.
"Enemies Of Reality" (2003) was originally recorded in Seattle with producer Kelly Gray (QUEENSRYCHE, SLAVE TO THE SYSTEM, DOKKEN) and was widely criticized for its muddy, inferior production compared to that of its predecessor, 2000's "Dead Heart in a Dead World", which was produced by Sneap.
NEVERMORE are expected to enter the studio with Sneap in February 2005 to begin recording their follow-up to "Enemies Of Reality", tentatively due late summer/early fall via Century Media.
THE MIGHTY NIMBUS, the Minnesota-based group featuring former SIXTY WATT SHAMAN and ALABAMA THUNDERPUSSY members, have parted with singer Dan Soren due to family issues.
For their upcoming February tour with CROWBAR and ENTOMBED, ALABAMA THUNDERPUSSY guitarist Erik Larson will sing for the band. Larson played guitar on THE MIGHTY NIMBUS' debut record and was replaced by Alex Petrovich (MISTER BONES) for their appearance at the Emissions Of The Monolith Festival.
THE MIGHTY NIMBUS' debut is available in Europe and will be released in February 2005 in Canada and the United States via Candlelight Records.
Sweden's CENTINEX have set "World Declension" as the title of their new album, tentatively due in June via Cold Records (a subsidiary of Metal Blade). The group's follow-up to this year's "Decadence - Prophecies of Cosmic Chaos" will be recorded in March. No further details are currently available.
"Decadence - Prophecies of Cosmic Chaos" was recorded and mixed at Black Lounge Studios and contains nine tracks, including an instrumental piece written and performed by Peter Pettersson from Swedish goth/industrial act ARCANA. The artwork for the album was conceived by Per Gustafson (CULT OF LUNA), while the layout was, once again, handled by Timo "The Eyeless" Ketola.
Danish modern thrash metallers MNEMIC have been nominated for five awards at the Danish Metal Awards. The categories in which they were nominated are as follows:
* Album of the Year ("Audio Injected Soul") * Live Band of the Year * Music Video of the Year ("Deathbox") * Guitarist of the Year (Mircea Gabriel Eftmie) * Bassist of the Year (Tomas "Obeast" Koefoed)
To vote for MNEMIC, send an e-mail to the following address: awards2004@danishmetal.dk.
A complete list of the nominees can be found at ' .
Sweden's IN FLAMES are currently working on a DVD, entitled "A Night In Flames", featuring the band on their 2004 world tour. The last stop on the trek is the special IN FLAMES show in London (Carling Apollo Hammersmith) on December 27, whre the group will be joined by LACUNA COIL, CHIMAIRA and CALIBAN. The show will be filmed with several cameras and a seven-meter long crane. "The IN FLAMES material looks great and I'm very exited about finishing these concerts," director/producer Patric Ullaeus of Revolver Films said.
"A Night In Flames" is scheduled for release in June 2005.
THE PROJECT HATE, the Swedish band featuring Jörgen Sandström of ENTOMBED/GRAVE fame on lead vocals, are scheduled to enter the studio in early 2005 to begin recording their fourth studio album, tentatively due next summer via Threeman Recordings. An update on the songwriting sessions from guitarist Lord K (a.k.a. Kenth Philipson) follows:
"Some weeks ago we got informed that it looks like Threeman Recordings won't have the budget for us to enter the studio in February as planned, which is not a very good thing. We know they are working on it though and we still have hope for it to happen since we just completed the eighth and final song for the coming album and really look forward to put it all down on tape.
Chicago doomsters NOVEMBERS DOOM have parted ways with bass player Mike LeGros. Mike played bass with the band for the past two years, and contributed to the recording of the upcoming CD, "The Pale Haunt Departure". "It was brought to our attention that he was not comfortable in the band due to creative differences, and the dedication to his instrument we required suffered because of this," the group said in a statement. "Very simply, it was time for a change, on both sides. Mike is an amazing person, and we are forever grateful for everything he did for NOVEMBERS DOOM during his time with us. We wish him nothing but the best with DISINTER, NACHTMYSTIUM, and any other project he aligns himself with!
"We are in the process of filling the vacant bass position, and this will not hinder us from touring, and promoting 'The Pale Haunt Departure' in 2005. Any interested parties should email: info@novembersdoom.com."
"The Pale Haunt Departure" was mixed by Swedish producer/musician Dan Swanц (BLOODBATH, EDGE OF SANITY, NIGHTINGALE) and is being mastered by James Murphy (DEATH, OBITUARY, TESTAMENT). An early 2005 release through The End Records is expected.
OBITUARY singer John Tardy has posted the following message on the group's official web site:
"Donald [Tardy, drums], Al [West, guitar] and I finished another song the other day. We are real close to having the music done, just a few more songs, and we will be getting into the studio. Hopefully by January.
"I went down last night and hung out with the CANNIBAL [CORPSE] and NAPALM [DEATH] guys. I haven't seen either one of them for a while so it was good to get to see them. Unfortunately NAPALM's bus broke down and they didn't make it in time for the show but a least I did get to have a few cool ones with them."
OBITUARY are expected to enter the studio in early 2005 to begin recording their first collection of new songs since 1997's "Back From the Dead", tentatively due next summer through Roadrunner Records.
Sweden's HAMMERFALL have set "Chapter V: Unbent, Unbowed, Unbroken" as the title of their new album, due on March 7, 2005 via Nuclear Blast Records.
The follow-up to 2002's "Crimson Thunder" was produced and mixed by Charlie Bauernfeind (BLIND GUARDIAN, HELLOWEEN) and will be preceded by the "Blood Bound" single on January 31. A video for "Blood Bound" was recently shot in Gothenburg, Sweden.
01. Secrets 02. Blood Bound 03. Fury of the Wild 04. Hammer of Justice 05. Never, Ever 06. Born to Rule 07. The Templar Flame 08. Imperial 09. Take the Black 10. Knights of the 21st Century
MY DYING BRIDE are busying themselves preparing for their next full-length DVD release, planned for spring 2005. They are working with David Palser again to produce a new video clip exclusively for this release. The track is "The Blue Lotus" and "it is going to be a stunning work," according to a posting on the group's web site. "A great new photo shoot by Lady Morgana has also been completed, which shows the band like you have never seen them before. Expect to be amazed. The previously available DVD, 'For Darkest Eyes', has been repackaged and will be available at a special price from March. If that wasn't enough, we're also expecting the writing of a new studio album for 2006 release."
ORDER OF THE EBON HAND, the Greek band featuring Akis of SEPTIC FLESH fame, have inked a deal with Season of Mist. The group, who play "true black metal, with a dramatic and theatrical edge," will release their new album, "XV: The Devil", on January 24, 2005.
After much internal wrangling, Sweden's KATATONIA have decided not to release their first full stand-alone DVD just yet, according to the group's record label, Peaceville Records. However, the show that they filmed in Poland will still feature as a DVD, but it will now form one of three discs in an exclusive limited-edition triple box set which will be available early in the new year. Two CDs will span the whole of their career to date and feature one exclusive track, while the third disc will contain the whole Krakow show in 5.1 surround sound. The band are also about to embark on the recording of their seventh studio album which is expected to be released next fall.
SEPULTURA will celebrate the 20th anniversary of their first show (which took place on December 4,1984 in their former hometown of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil) by performing the MOTЦRHEAD track "Orgasmatron" with Lemmy and the rest of the gang at their scheduled joint appearance in Magdeburg, Germany Saturday night (Dec. 4).
As previously reported, SEPULTURA intend to shoot a show in Brazil for a planned DVD. This will also feature behind-the-scenes footage shot by frontman Derrick Green over the past several years since he joined the band. SEPULTURA will write and record new songs to go with Green's film.
Swedish thrash titans THE HAUNTED will be the featured guests on MTV2’s Headbangers Ball this Saturday, Dec. 4th. The group are currently wrapping up the Devastation Across The Nation Tour alongside Damageplan and Shadows Fall; look for them to make their U.S. return in the spring. Their new video “All Against All” was shot by acclaimed director Roger Johansson (In Flames, Soilwork), expect a new video for the track “99” to surface early next year.
Now four albums into the band’s stellar career, THE HAUNTED have returned with their most savage assault yet, proving that there truly is no compromise. Their new disc, rEVOLVEr, featuring the long anticipated return of original vocalist Peter Dolving, is also the group’s most dynamic offering to date. The innovators of Swedish thrash metal have returned, and they are ready to lay waste to anything that stands in their way.
“Who needs Slayer when you have THE HAUNTED.”
-Decibel
“THE HAUNTED might be the most devastating combo in recent years to revive thrash metal’s menacing specter.”
In an as yet unpublicized move, it appears that Germany's Sanctuary/Noise Records has all but abandoned their artists, with several longtime staffers also leaving the once prominent metal label. Sources say that 20+ bands have either been dropped, or let out of their contract. The only non-casualty seems to be Kai Hansen's GAMMA RAY. Otherwise, the label has apparently had a change of direction, seeking to sign older, established acts, rather than breaking newer ones - a most certain death blow for scene longevity.
In an ironic bit of related news, several of the departed former Sanctuary employees have banded together to start their own label, backed by IRON SAVIOR founder/guitarist Piet Sielck, who was instrumental in the formation of HELLOWEEN, along with Hansen.
This is ARCANA as you have never heard them before. With melodies from the orient, feelings of the hot arabic landscape and beautiful sounds of instruments like the Duduk and the Hammered Dulcimer, ARCANA has on this release moved abit further from the original sound that we have heard through out the years. Along with the fabulous art of Agnieszka Szuba, this album is a release you can't miss.
The first edition will be in 500 copies, each numbered by hand.
Pre-orders are to be taken soon!
Le Serpent Rouge - Tracklist
1.In Search of The Divine 2.Le Serpent Rouge 3.Cathar 4.Under the Sun 5.Amber 6.Seductive Flame 7.Serpents Dance 8.The Passage 9.The Nemesis
On December 11th, ARCANA will perform at the "Old house" in St. Petersburg (if all goes as planned). It is the "Radio Inferno Festival" that will take place the weekend of the 10th and 11th. “We really look forward to meet all the people in Russia, and to see the beautiful city that we have read so much about. Anyone with any suggestions on vegetarian foodrestaurants are free to mail us:)” More info will follow...
Earache is proud to announce the completion of a union with Finland's Callisto, in a deal which will see Earache issue the band's superb last album 'True Nature Unfolds' in all territories outside of the band's homeland.
Having developed a breathtaking capacity to produce highly atmospheric and emotional music with real depth, 'True Nature Unfolds' has already gained widespread acceptance from those who appreciate crushing mood music.
Callisto are celebrating news of their new home by embarking on a series of dates around Europe in the run-up to Christmas, as follows;
CALLISTO EUROPEAN TOUR
03.12.04 LinkЖping, Sweden @ Skylten 04.12.04 Herning, Denmark @ Imperiet 05.12.04 Berlin, Germany @ Wild At Heart 06.12.04 Groningen, Holland @ de Kar 07.12.04 Saarlouis, Germany @ Juz 09.12.04 Lyon, France @ Le Clos Fleuri 10.12.04 Luzern, Switzerland @ Squat 11.12.04 Ansbach, Germany @ 13 Eins 12.12.04 Hamburg, Germany @ Hafenklang 14.12.04 Belchatow, Poland @ Piwnica 16.12.04 Riga, Latvia @ Club Depo 17.12.04 Liepaja, Latvia @ Fontaine s Palace 18.12.04 Rakvere, Estonia @ Green Christmas 06.01.05 Tampere @ Yo-talo 07.01.05 Turku @ TVO 08.01.05 Helsinki @ Tavastia, Sirkkelirock 28.01.05 Helsinki @ Finnish Metal Expo 19.02.05 Lappeenranta @ Monari
Expect an early 2005 release date for 'True Nature Unfolds' and UK shows around the same time.
Swedish neo-classical military industrial duo PUISSANCE have inked a deal with Vicious Recordings. The group, who were previously signed to the Regain label, are scheduled to release a new album next summer. No further details are currently available.
Finnish/Swedish grinding death metal act DEATHBOUND, featuring members of ...AND OCEANS, THE DUSKFALL and ROTTEN SOUND, have changed the projected title of their second album to "Doomsday Comfort" from the previously announced "Syringe - Death And Addictions".
"Doomsday Comfort" was recorded at Soundlab Studios in Örebro, Sweden and is due in early 2005 via Dynamic Arts Records. Songtitles set to appear on the follow-up to "To Cure the Sane With Insanity" include "A Hell As Nice As This", "Shake Their Hands", "Extinct" and "Remake the Reneved".
DEATHBOUND, who were recently rejoined by ROTTEN SOUND guitarist Q (who played drums on "To Cure the Sane With Insanity"), will film a video for the song "Extinct" from the upcoming CD on December 11 in Helsinki. Directing the clip will be Juha "LordNeck" Niska, who has previously done videos for such Finnish bands as MOKOMA, ZACHARIUS CARLS GROUP and LAMBS.
AGE OF SILENCE, the band featuring SOLEFALD's Lazare and MAYHEM's Hellhammer, will be talking about their debut album, "Acceleration", on the radio show "Metal Reigns" on Friday, December 10. Broadcast times are as follows: 3 p.m. PST / 6 p.m. EST/ 11 p.m. Greenwich Mean Time/ Midnight: Central European Time. To tune in from the web, go directly to ' . Also, check out the ' web site. To go directly to an audio review of "Acceleration", click ' .
"Acceleration" was released in September via The End Records. The CD was recorded in part at Norway's Toproom studio and was mixed at The Factory in Canada by producer Andy Winter and mixing engineer Sheldon Zaharko (MARILYN MANSON). The "Acceleration" artwork was conceived by Travis Smith. Download an MP3 of the track "The Concept of Haste" at ' .
Floridian black metallers KULT OV AZAZEL have entered the studio to begin re-recording the tracks for their upcoming split releases with VROLOK and HORN OF VALERE. The split with HORN OF VALERE, titled "Through War or Suicide", will feature a new song from the upcoming album, titled "Through War or Suicide", along with a cover of SODOM's "Blasphemer". The split with VROLOK, titled "Feast of Sacrilegious Impurity", will consist of the same two songs plus three bonus live video tracks.
Raleigh, North Carolina-based melodic metallers WIDOW have finished recording their new album, "On Fire", due in early 2005 via Tribunal Records. The band have also filmed a DVD documenting the recording of the album and featuring live performances with new vocalist Lili and drummer Marc Anthony.
Michigan-based black metallers SUMMON have finished recording their their sixth album, "Fallen", at Flatline Audio Studios (formerly Hellion Studios) in Denver, Colorado with producer Dave Otero (CEPHALIC CARNAGE, SERBERUS). The follow-up to 2002's "And the Blood Runs Black" is "ungodly — the best thing that has been recorded so far," stated bassist/vocalist Chas Schoals.
ANCIENT's Aphazel and ex-ANCIENT singer Deadly Kristin have signed a contract with the Greek label Sleaszy Rider for the release of DREAMLIKE HORROR's first album, "Delightful Suicides". The CD will include the five (re-arranged) tracks from the unreleased 2000 promo and five brand new tracks, which are in process of being composed/recorded. A March 15, 2005 release is expected. Furthermore Sleaszy Rider is going to re-release ANCIENT's "Det Glemte Riket" on February 15, 2005 as well as ANCIENT's first demo, "Eerily Howling Winds", recorded in 1993. The CD will also contain five bonus/unreleased tracks from the beginning of the band's career under the title "Eerily Howling Winds - The Antediluvian Tapes".
Finnish goth-metallers THE 69 EYES were forced to cancel shows in Finland and Sweden after drummer Jussi 69 was rushed to the hospital in Porvoo and later taken by ambulance to Helsinki," according to a posting on the group's web site. "[Jussi's] appendix perforated and was later removed. Mr. 69 is now recovering but will on the sick leave for a couple of weeks. THE 69 EYES has postponed this weekend's and Stockholm's shows but will continue the tour from Savonlinna on Friday, December 3." As previously reported, THE 69 EYES' new album, "Devils" (Virgin/EMI), entered the Finnish album chart at No. 1. upon its release late last month. The follow-up to 2002's "Paris Kills", "Devils" was produced by Hiili Hiilesmaa (H.I.M., MOONSPELL, SENTENCED) and Johnny Lee Michaels and was preceded by a single containing the album's title cut. THE 69 EYES recently shot a video for the album's title track in Sweden with the Baranga Brothers, who have previously worked with THE RASMUS, among others.
Wroth Emitter presents debut album of Moscow-based progressive death metal band DEIMOS, "Never Be Awaken". Melodism together with heavy mid-temp ryffs, sudden temp and rythm changes, growling and clear vocals - all these make the music of group quite original and attractive for the fans of different styles of heavy music. Tracklist:
1. Never Be Awaken 2. Guardian 3. Last Light Flashes 4. In Winter 5. Run Through 6. The Great Flower Of Northern Lands 7. The Top 8. Golden Horde
Line-up: Leonid Gezalyan - guitar Alexandr GlazkovАлександр Глазков - guitar Tadeush Senich - vocal Roman Drozd - bass Vladislav Manshin - drums
Guest musicians: A. Norloguyanova - vocal O. Kornilova - keyboard S. Pan'kovskiy - bass
Chicago doomsters NOVEMBERS DOOM have completed the mixing process for their new album, "The Pale Haunt Departure", with Swedish producer/musician Dan Swano (BLOODBATH, EDGE OF SANITY, NIGHTINGALE). "Dan worked many long days and nights to make sure we were 100 percent happy with the final product, offering several versions of each song," the band write on their web site. "We could not be more pleased with this entire process. Dan is one of the hardest-working people in metal, and he treated NOVEMBERS DOOM as if it were one of his own projects. We have a great deal of respect for him, and our eternal gratitude for making this as perfect as it is. Swano fans won't be disappointed either, as there is a guest appearance on the CD from him. "The recordings will now be shipped to James Murphy (DEATH, OBITUARY, TESTAMENT) for mastering. With some of the great CD's we've heard James do, this should be an absolutely amazing sounding CD, and we're looking forward to everyone hearing it!" An early 2005 release through The End Records is expected.
WITHIN TEMPTATION's "The Silent Force" has entered the Dutch album chart at position No. 1. The first single off the album, "Stand My Ground" , currently occupies position No. 13 on the Dutch single chart. "The Silent Force" was mixed at Toytown Studios in Sweden and was produced by Daniel Gibson, who co-wrote four songs with the band, including "Stand My Ground". Additional songwriting credit on "Stand My Ground" comes from Han'some, who, like Gibson, is represented by EMI Music Publishing. WITHIN TEMPTATION's "Mother Earth" album, which was originally released in 2000 and then re-issued in 2002 to rave reviews, reportedly sold 350,000 copies in Europe and reached triple platinum status in Holland.
Holland's THE GATHERING have issued the following update on their current and upcoming activities:
"The band will be touring 'till December, after which they will take some time off for Anneke [van Giersbergen, vocals] to give birth to her first child. Meanwhile during rehearsals and at home the band will carry on writing songs.
"Anneke is still doing fine, while she's on tour and pregnant at the same time. Because a tour means hard work, she needs to be careful with the energy she's got and she needs her rest from time to time. She is dedicated to finishing this tour just as energetic as the way they started it.
Israeli death metallers SALEM have posted two video clips from their "Live Demise" DVD at their official web site. Check out the songs "A Moment of Silence" and "Creating Our Sins" at http://www.salemband.com/videos.html.
"Live Demise" features a full-length concert filmed on July 9, 2003 in Tel Aviv (presented in 5.1, 2.0 and DTS mixes), seven promotional videos ("Act of War", "Al Taster", "Broken yet United", "Fear of the Future", "Ha'ayara Bo'eret", "Masquerade in Claustrophobia" and "Slave"), "making of" footage of both "Collective Demise" and "Live Demise", various outtakes, and a 12-page, full-color booklet.
SALEM's most recent CD, "Collective Demise", was released in September 2002 via Germany's KMG/System Shock Records.
THE WILDHEARTS have announced that the DVD, intended to feature a live show, a documentary and a complete promo video archive, will now no longer go ahead. GUT Records have pulled out of the venture. No official reason has been offered as yet.
Due to the limited time left to arrange alternative finances the project will have to be shelved.
"Thank you so much for your videos, DVDs and MP3s, intended to be used on the documentary," the group write in a statement, "The band intend to continue to look for financers to fund the documentary.
According to EndlessWar.net, Finland's NORTHER have set "Solution 7" as the title of their new EP. The CD will contain five songs, including an as-yet-disclosed cover. Recording sessions for the disc will begin on December 24 at Astia Studios in Lappeenranta, Finland.
NORTHER's third full-length album, "Death Unlimited", was released earlier this year through Spinefarm Records.
As previously reported, NORTHER's Petri Lindroos has been named a permanent member of the Finnish folk-influenced melodic death metal band ENSIFERUM. Lindroos will handle the vocals and guitar in the group
Finnish melodic death/thrash metallers MORS PRINCIPIUM EST have completed work on their sophomore album, entitled "The Unborn", at Tico Tico studio (SONATA ARCTICA, SENTENCED, FOR MY PAIN…, ALTARIA) in Kemi, Finland. Mastering will take place at Finnvox studios in December 2004. The cover art for the album is being handled by Mattias Norèn (' ).
Commented guitarist Jori Haukio: "The overall sound of the album became really massive compared to our debut album, 'Inhumanity', and the production is very futuristic and top-notch because we had time to record a lot of extra stuff in our own studio. To mention few bands that the album might sound like, I would go with a mix of AT THE GATES, CARCASS, and EVANESCENCE for some parts. Even blast beat is heard from time to time, and Ville's vocal parts turned out to be something else, his voice has really developed to more serious deathmetal growling."
"The Unborn" track listing:
01. Pure 02. The Harmony Remains 03. Parasites of Paradise 04. Two Steps Away 05. Altered State of Consciousness 06. Spirit-Conception 07. The Unborn 08. Fragile Flesh 09. Pressure 10. The Glass Womb
"The Unborn" is scheduled for a spring 2005 release through France's Listenable Records.
Danish metallers BEYOND TWILIGHT have issued the following update regarding the recording sessions for their new album:
"Thank you for being so patient about the new BEYOND TWILIGHT disc. The recordings are finished. We're now in a position where all that is left to do is mix at Jailhouse Studio in December.
"It is also time that we reveal who the new singer is, but before that we want to share some information with you about our choice and the kind of process we went through in order to find the perfect match for the band. We needed someone with a powerful voice, a lot of range, a theatrical attitude, and a personality that fits with the rest of the band. Finn [keyboardist/main composer] has been through over 280 tapes, CDs and auditions. Everything from semi-professionals to rockstars have made offers and been through the mill.
"As many of you know, the initial choice as the vocalist for BEYOND TWILIGHT's new album was Russell Allen (SYMPHONY X). Unfortunately, due to several factors already explained on our websites, this never worked out.
"While the rumour mills were conjuring up possible replacements we went about contacting various well-known singers. We used a lot of money on having singers going in and out of studios and at this stage we decided to go for a well-known vocalist in New York. Everything seemed to be more or less settled. But that didn't work out either.
"However, BEYOND TWILIGHT had an eye out for American singer Kelly Sundown Carpenter. Kelly is the vocalist in Texas power/progressive metal band OUTWORLD, fan of BEYOND TWILIGHT and had been communicating with Finn for a while. Time was short, but Finn insisted on giving him a chance, and when we opened the door for Kelly in the last minute, he sent us a demo, which totally blew us all away.
"For us there were no doubts — Kelly has got it all. His range is amazing (be it deep growls, incredible high-pitch singing or soft and tender parts, it's all there!), the theatrical aspect comes across extremely well, his ability to mesh himself into the songs is spot-on, and his entire positive attitude and energy is exactly what we were looking for in BEYOND TWILIGHT.
"Kelly flew to Denmark in October 2004 and stayed here for 15 days recording the vocals for the album together with Finn Zierler who has been engineering and producing the vocals. The outcome is fantastic!
"BEYOND TWILIGHT has also shot a video for one of the new songs in Copenhagen. The video is extremely dark and gloomy — totally befitting the concept of BEYOND TWILIGHT. Besides portraying the band, the video also features British model Morrigan Hel (who has been showcased in various videos, magazines and on album covers such as CRADLE OF FILTH's 'From the Cradle to Enslave').
"The title of the new album will be 'Section X'. Once you read the lyrics and get into the concept, you'll understand why Finn chose this title :-)
"The release date will be sometime in the spring… In the meantime, check out the new pictures of the band in the line-up section of the BEYOND TWILIGHT/Intromental site."
WORLD BELOW, the new band consisting of CARNAL FORGE/CENTINEX guitarist Jonas Kjellgren, CARNAL FORGE/ex-IN THY DREAMS drummer Stefan Westerberg, and ex-SIDEBURNERS bassist/vocalist Mikael Danielsson, will enter Jonas' Black Lounge studios in January to record their as-yet-untitled sophomore album. Dreamtide Music Management are said to be in the final stages of securing a new record deal for the group, who were previously signed to Doom Symphony Records, a division of Italy's Underground Symphony.
WORLD BELOW's debut album, "Sacrifices to the Moon", was released last August through Doom Symphony. The group's music is being described as a mixture of "CANDLEMASS and early BLACK SABBATH." "Sacrifices to the Moon" was recorded early last year at Black Lounge studios.
Atlanta, GA-based progressive metallers HALCYON WAY are currently in the studio working on their full-length debut, entitled "A Manifesto For Domination". The group, who performed at the ProgPower V festival and were featured on the ProgPower V sampler CD, recently released the "Deliver The Suffering" EP. The band's sound can be described as "IN FLAMES meets DIO and DREAM THEATER." The EP can be purchased for $5 by e-mailing halcyonwayband@aol.com.
Norwegian extreme metal band MINDGRINDER, featuring ex-SOURCE OF TIDE drummer/keyboardist Cosmocrator (on bass/vocals), have entered Akkerhaugen Lydstudio (EMPEROR, ZYKLON, WINDIR) in Norway to record their sophomore album, tentatively due in early 2005 via Nocturnal Art Productions. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "The Rebellion", "Concept of Honesty", "Obligation to Prevail" and "Warhead".
Commented Cosmocrator: "The material is extreme, brutal and intense, based on the strongest material from the first album, but taking it even further in all ways. The expression is way more dynamic, raw and complete this time!"
MINDGRINDER issued their debut album, "MindTech", in April through Nocturnal Art Productions. The CD was recorded in December 2002 at Akkerhaugen Lydstudio and was originally slated for release through Sound Riot Records — a plan that was eventually abandoned due to the label's "financial problems," according to the group.
ACTIONJACKSON, the new German band formed by ex-MORGOTH members Marc Grewe (vocals) and Sebastian Swart (guitar), have launched their official web site at ' . The band, whose lineup is completed by Harry Ernst (drums) and Thilo Mellies (bass), cite influences ranging from the thrash metal movement of the Eighties to the alternative and post-hardcore scenes. ACTIONJACKSON have just completed work on their debut demo. Nine out of 15 originals have already been recorded, and several of the cuts ("The Mission", "On a Crusade", "The Runaway", "Cave in the Lie", "Newborn" and "Mad Force") are available in streaming audio at the group's web site.
German gothic metal band DARKSEED have completed work on their new album, "Ultimate Darkness", due on January 24, 2005 via Massacre Records.
The complete track listing for the effort is as follows:
01. Disbeliever 02. My Burden 03. Ultimate Darkness 04. Biting Cold 05. The Dark One 06. Save Me 07. Speak Silence 08. Next to Nothing 09. Follow Me 10. The Fall 11. Endless Night 12. Sleep Sleep Sweetheart
STURMGEIST, the solo project of SOLEFALD mastermind Cornelius von Jackhelln, will release its debut album, "Meister Mephisto", on January 24, 2005 via Season of Mist. According to an official press release, the CD, which features guest appearances by members of BORKNAGAR, DIE APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER and DIABOLIC, "will take you on a hellride to Goethe's Weimar, through the Black Forest and over the mighty Alps. STURMGEIST blends the ambient aggression of Norwegian black metal with the affirmative attitude of the Viking virtues, presenting a lethal soundtrack to any hardcore party."
Track listing as following:
1) Chasing the rats 2)Protecting the children from the evil trees 3) Grimmer than ugly, more vicious than bad; 4) Germanic legend, sabbat of the witches 5) Hunting in the Black Forest 6) Army of Odin, Vikings of Midgard 7) Electronic warfare, the darkest night of horror 8) Ragnarok, Götterdämmerung 9) Let loose on the world in January MMV
The record session for SOLEFALD V will start until the end of November!!!
Florida-based death metallers SIX FEET UNDER have set "13" as the title of their new CD, tentatively due in March via Metal Blade Records. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Decomposition of the Human Race", "Somewhere in the Darkness" and "The Poison Hand". Singer Chris Barnes promises really heavy stuff!
Acclaimed orchestral arranger and Grammy-award winner Paul Buckmaster has apparently worked on arrangements for four songs that are slated to appear on the long-awaited GUNS N' ROSES album, "Chinese Democracy". According to Buckmaster's official discography/list of credits, he has served as the arranger and conductor on the tracks "Blues", "Twat", "Madagascar" and "Prostitute", all of which are expected to surface on the much-anticipated CD, due next year via Interscope.
As previously reported, legendary Italian film composer Marco Beltrami ("Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines", "Resident Evil", "Scream", "Blade 2") has also provided orchestral arrangements for four tracks that are tentatively set to appear on "Chinese Democracy". According to Beltrami's official web site, MarcoBeltrami.com, the four cuts the composer was asked to work on have the working titles of "Seven", "Leave Me Alone", "General" and "Thyme".
"Chinese Democracy" will feature the band's first new music since "Oh My God", the group's contribution to the soundtrack to the 1999 movie "End of Days".
GUNS N' ROSES' last studio album was a covers CD, "The Spaghetti Incident?", which was released in 1993.
Canadian industrial doom/death metal mongrels ZARAZA have posted the following update at their official web site:
"It may seem quiet in the ZARAZA camp, but things are slowly happening. First of all, we've nearly finished recording a cover of 'Half-Life' by the almighty SWANS that will come out next year on a tribute compilation from various doom bands eager to show their respect to these legendary masters. It's by far one of the most brutal, abrasive and heaviest pieces we've ever laid down to tape (or hard drive in our case), so we look forward to you hearing it at some time in the future.
"Second, the concept for the third album is slowly gelling together. Jacek [The Doomhammer; vocals, keyboards, samples] and Grzegorz [Haus Ov Doom; vocals, keyboards] have been working out ideas for two new songs, so we expect to take up most of 2005 for the songwriting process. If all goes well the next album, 'Abyss of the Primitive' should be out somewhere in 2006. Expect a slower, doomier style, with more progressive analog sounds, rounded off by piercing drums and crushing guitars... another ZARAZA epic. There will be no (or hardly any) orchestral/symphonic elements present on the album...we're utterly tired of that sound after 12 years and besides, every single BM band in a garage is doing it these days. Time to move on and discard that element of our style, it's time to evolve.
"Third, look out for all of ZARAZA's current albums appearing shortly on various major music download sites (e.g. iTunes, eMusic.com, etc.). Hopefully it will help us spread the word. As usual, many thanks to all the people who support the band, buy our CDs, send us words of encouragement, you make it all worthwhile...forwards to doom!"
Anthony Barnes of the Belfast Telegraph is reporting that IRON MAIDEN's iconic mascot Eddie — the ghoulish figure which has appeared on their album sleeves for a quarter of a century — has helped them to the top of the charts in the rock 'n' roll fashion stakes.
Russel Coultart, chief executive of TeeShirtStore.com, which organised the poll, said he was initially surprised by the winning shirt. "You would think it would be someone more current. But IRON MAIDEN have got such a huge fan-base and they have built that up over 20-plus years."
The Top 10 Music T-Shirts:
01. IRON MAIDEN - Eddie logo 02. JOY DIVISION - Unknown Pleasures 03. NIRVANA - Nevermind smiley face 04. THE RAMONES - eagle logo 05. ROLLING STONES - lips logo 06. KRAFTWERK - Autobahn 07. PRIMAL SCREAM - Screamadelica 08. METALLICA - Master of Puppets 09. PUBLIC ENEMY - target logo 10. INSPIRAL CARPETS - Cool as fuck
IRON MAIDEN drummer Nicko McBrain performed with the Italian MAIDEN tribute band ATHENORA in Athens, Greece on Friday, November 19 as part of a few "special" appearances by McBrain and his Italian friends. Nicko and ATHENORA played an all-IRON MAIDEN set, which included such selections as "Murders in the Rue Morgue", "Wrathchild", "Heaven Can Wait", "2 Minutes to Midnight", "Blood Brothers", "The Number of the Beast", "Hallowed Be Thy Name", "Fear of the Dark", "Brave New World" and "Iron Maiden".
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 ' (with "Hanker's bassist" in the subject box). HANKER's latest CD, "Web of Faith", was released in August via Skycraper Music.
SIX FEET UNDER's video for the track "Dead and Buried (Living Life in the Grave)" has been posted online at Mental Suplex Productions (www.mentalsuplex.com/media). Directed by Jerry Clubb, the "Dead and Buried (Living Life in the Grave)" clip will premiere on MTV2's "Headbanger's Ball" on Saturday, November 20. The video will also debut on Fuse's "Uranium" on Sunday, November 21.
A new studio track recorded in March 2004, "Dead and Buried (Living Life in the Grave)" appears on the SIX FEET UNDER "Live With Full Force" DVD/CD release.
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.
German death metallers DISBELIEF have completed work on their sixth album, "66 Sick", at Antfarm Studio in Aarhus, Denmark with producer Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, HATESPHERE, MNEMIC). Songtitles set to appear on the 11-track effort include "Crawl", "For God?", "Edges" and "Lost In Time". A March 14, 2005 release via Nuclear Blast Records is expected.
PARADISE LOST are tentatively scheduled to release the first single from their new album in late January, with the full-length CD to follow in February. The group's world tour in support of the album is expected to kick off in April.
"Paradise Lost" — named in celebration of the group's 10th studio album since their full-length debut, "Lost Paradise", was released in 1990 — was recorded primarily at Chapel Studios in Lincolnshire, England under the guidance of producer Rhys Fulber (FEAR FACTORY, FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY). The follow-up to 2002's "Symbol of Life" is the group's first to feature drummer Jeff Singer (ex-BLAZE).
Singer joined the group in May as the replacement for Lee Morris, who left the band in March due to "personal and musical differences."
The upcoming CD is being described by singer Nick Holmes as "definitely the heaviest album we have done in the last ten years."
Norwegian black metallers MAYHEM have parted ways with singer Maniac (real name Sven Erik Kristiansen) and replaced him with Attila Csihar (TORMENTOR, ABORYM). Csihar had previously worked with the group on their 1993 release, "De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas".
"Although many rumors flourished over the past months, nothing was decided until now," reads a statement from the group's record label, Season of Mist. "The reason for this change in line-up lies in more private matters, but has also to do with Maniac's inability to tour."
The band commented in a statement: "Maniac was, and will always be a part of our legacy, and it has been an honour to work with him for the last 10 years. Respect!"
CORROSION OF CONFORMITY, the Grammy-nominated heavy rockers from North Carolina, will release an aggressive new studio album through Sanctuary's Mayan Records label in early 2005, to be followed by a worldwide tour.
Tentatively titled En los Brazos del Dios (In the Arms of God), the upcoming album is among the band's heaviest in years. "We all have a certain affinity for real music, including truly heavy stuff," says founding guitarist Woody Weatherman.
The band's current direction reflects their long tradition of evolution. "We started writing songs, and they somewhat had the vibe of Blind, Deliverance and our earlier material," says vocalist/guitarist Pepper Keenan. "We started thinking from that perspective, and it evolved into a heavy, classic sound but with a modern wisdom to it. We really got back to our roots with this one, listening to old records that we all grew up on and headbanging at Woody's farmhouse. It was a good time putting it together."
The result, Keenan says, is "bombastic, epic record, staying clear of the 3-minute formula. It's not a nostalgic record by any means; it's big and ugly and heavy. Thematically, there's a lot of disgust on the record, directed inwardly and towards society in general, reflecting these times we all live in. A lot of people will be able to relate."
Tentative song titles include "En los Brazos del Dios," "Never Turns to More," "Stone Breaker" and "World on Fire." Producing the album is COC's longtime collaborator and knob-twisting, speaker-blowing genius, John Custer. Besides working on four of the band's previous albums, Custer also produced COC bassist Mike Dean's track on Dave Grohl's Probot project and COC's contribution to Nativity In Black, the Sabbath tribute compilation.
Playing drums is New Orleans' Stanton Moore, skinsman for the renowned jazz-funk combo Galactic. Over the past year, COC found themselves writing intense material and needed a drummer who could not only handle it but take it to another level. Keenan, who had since moved back to his hometown of New Orleans, called his old friend Moore to ask him if he knew any drummers up for the task. Moore laughed. "Yeah, me," he said.
Within four days, COC was in New Orleans undertaking a musical adventure without a map. This is the type of creative situation in which the band thrives and distinguishes itself as an original force in heavy music. Though COC's onslaught represented a departure for Stanton, he was more than up for the challenge. "His performance was totally original and category-crushing," Weatherman says. "He stepped right into it full-throttle."
"He's one of the most progressive drummers I know," Keenan says of Moore. "In the heavy metal world nobody really knows who he is, but after they hear this they will. He's an accomplished jazz drummer playing manic heavy music - I've never heard anything like it."
The result of the collaboration is a dozen or so pieces that continue COC's history of refusing to spoon-feed the masses a bunch of formulaic, commercial f*&#ing horse$#!%.
Launch Radio Networks is reporting that BLACK SABBATH guitarist Tony Iommi and occasional collaborator Glenn Hughes are recording a new album, which they hope to release in 2005.
According to a posting on the group's official web site, 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.
Danish thrashers HATESPHERE have now officially signed a new record deal with the SPV label. The band recently spent time at Jailhouse Studios with producer Tommy Hansen (HELLOWEEN, PRETTY MAIDS) recording a new mini-CD, entitled "The Killing EP". A spring 2005 release is expected.
Italy's THY MAJESTIE have announced the addition of singer Giulio Di Gregorio (IRENCROS) to the group's ranks.
THY MAJESTIE's previous vocalist, Gabriele Grilli (ex-FURY 'N GRACE/DOOMSWORD), left the group during the recording sessions for their follow-up to 2002's "Hastings 1066", tentatively due in early 2005 via Scarlet Records.
THY MAJESTIE's forthcoming CD, provisionally titled "Jean D'Arc", will contain the following track listing:
01. Maiden of Steel 02. The Chosen 03. Ride to Chinon 04. ...for Orleans 05. Up to the Battle! 06. The Rise of a King 07. Siege of Paris 08. Time to Die 09. The Trial
Australian grindcore band BLOOD DUSTER have posted a 15-second preview of their upcoming DVD at their official web site. Check it out at ' (Quicktime, 5.13 MB).
The live footage on the DVD is believed to have been recorded at the band's April 23, 2004 performance in Melbourne, Australia. A February 2005 release is expected.
POISON frontman Bret Michaels' red Fender Strat guitar (' ) was stolen during the last song of Bret's set at McCools in Valparaiso, Indiana on Friday November 12, 2004. Bret, his band and road crew are asking anyone and everyone who may know where the guitar is to please return it to them. This instrument has a lot of sentimental value to Bret and they just want to get it back. "There is no way you can sell it, because you will get caught," Bret and the crew said in a statement. "Bring it back to the next show or a show coming up and there will be no questions asked, no charges pressed." If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of this guitar, please e-mail ' with your contact information.
Reunited California speed metallers 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" (sample ' ). The group plan on writing another four songs before commencing the recording process.
Sweden's 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 Orebro 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. With regards to the new material, SOILWORK vocalist Bjorn "Speed" Strid recently said, "In my ears it sounds like a mixture between 'Natural Born Chaos' (2002) and our latest effort, 'Figure Number Five' with a slight and interesting development."
"Stabbing the Drama" final track listing:
01. Stabbing The Drama 02. One With The Flies 03. Weapon Of Vanity 04. The Crestfallen 05. Nerve 06. Stalemate 07. Distance 08. Observation Slave 09. Fate In Motion 10. Blind Eye Halo 11. If Possible Bonus: 12. Wherever Thorns May Grow (ltd. edition U.S/Europe + bonus for Japan) 13. Killed by Ignition (bonus for Japan only)
Regarding the artwork for the new CD, the band write on their web site, "We have selected the cover for the album and it looks pretty different from what we've had in the past but really looks killer!!"
GRENOUER and TARTHARIA one after another completed mixing new promos at Astia Studios, Finland with Anssi Kippo as sound producer (CHILDREN OF BODOM, ENTWINE, TWILIGHTNING, etc.). The picture of musicians in the studio you can check ' .
Despite Internet reports to the contrary, FIREBIRD, the British band led by former CARCASS/NAPALM DEATH guitarist Bill Steer, have not split up. An SPV Records representative who spoke to Steer on Wednesday (Nov. 10) told BLABBERMOUTH.NET that the band are still very much alive and are planning on hitting the road soon.
FIREBIRD, whose latest album, "No. 3", came out in the U.S. in August, will apparently undergo at least one member change prior to the recording of their next CD, which is not expected before early 2005. Songtitles set to appear on the album include "Needle In The Groove", "Flying Blind", "Play The Fool" and "Bread, Butter & Champagne".
Orange County, California-based sextet BLEED THE SKY have inked a worldwide deal with Nuclear Blast Records. The group are currently recording their full-length debut at Spyder Studios in Strongsville, OH with producer Ben Schigel (CHIMAIRA, SWITCHED). An early 2005 release is expected.
Formed in early 2003, BLEED THE SKY, whose average age is 22, are said to specialize in "mixing groovy metal riffs with distinctive melodies and profound lyrics." The band have previously shared the stage with such acts as MURDERDOLLS, MY RUIN, SKINLAB and DEICIDE. More information is available at '
Drummer Snowy Shaw (KING DIAMOND, MERCYFUL FATE, MEMENTO MORI, DREAM EVIL) has announced that NOTRE DAME's Halloween show in Gothenburg, Sweden on November 6, 2004 was the band's final gig. The show, which coincided with the group's six-year anniversary, was recorded and filmed, and parts of it will be included on the band's posthumous DVD and live CD release, "Creepshow Freakshow Peepshow".
NOTRE DAME's latest CD, ' , was released earlier in the year through Osmose Productions.
Legendary Swedish doomsters CANDLEMASS have reconsidered their decision to split up and are headed into the studio to record a new album, tentatively due next summer. The band — vocalist Messiah Marcolin, bassist/founder Leif Edling, guitarist Mats "Mappe" Bjцrkman, lead guitarist Lars Johansson and drummer Jan Lindh — are scheduled to begin recording the album at Stockholm's Polar studios on November 26 and mix the effort in January — just in time for their 20-year anniversary.
Commented 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 Mappe's 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!!"
As previously reported, GMR Music has set a November 22 release date for CANDLEMASS' "Essential Doom" CD, a collection of the group's best material plus their newly recorded and previously unreleased song "Witches". The album will come with a bonus DVD featuring video footage of the band's performance at the Rock Hard Festival in Germany in 2003.
Finnish "fantasy metal" band BATTLELORE will enter SoundSuite Studio in Marseille, France on March 15, 2005 with producer Terje Refsnes (TRISTANIA, MORGUL, TURISAS) to begin recording their third album, tentatively due next summer via Napalm Records. The group's bassist, Miika Kokkola, won't be able to participate in the recordings because of "personal reasons," but he has not left the band, according to a posting on the group's web site.
Sundsvall, Sweden-based death metallers IN BATTLE have set "Terrorkings" as the tentative title of their next album, tentatively due in 2005 via Cold/Metal Blade Records. The follow-up to this year's "Welcome to the Battlefield" will be produced and mixed by Erik Rutan (HATE ETERNAL/ex-MORBID ANGEL guitarist.
German death metallers FRAGMENTS OF UNBECOMING have expanded their lineup to include new singer Sam Anetzberger (LEGACY). "For a long time we thought of using a separate singer/frontman only doing the vocals in order to be more variable on the stage and to have a mixture of two different lung soundings," the band said in a statement.
FRAGMENTS OF UNBECOMING released their full-length debut, "Skywards – A Sylphe's Ascension", last January through Metal Blade Records. The band consist of Anetzberger, guitarist/vocalist Stefan Weimar (ex-VENEREAL DISEASE), guitarist Sascha Ehrich (ex-MORTIFIED), drummer Ingo Maier (ex-VENEREAL DISEASE), and bassist Wolfram Schellenberg (ex-DISEMBOWLED). The group had previously issued a self-financed EP, titled "Bloodred Tales".
Chris Kontos (drums, ex-MACHINE HEAD, ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT), Sean Smithson (guitar, ex-SACRILEGE B.C., GRINCH) and Sean McGrath (guitar, IMPALED) are in the process of forming a "full-on metal" band in the vein of EXODUS, THE HAUNTED, PANTERA, SHADOWS FALL and MEGADETH, according to a recent online posting by Smithson. The as-yet-unnamed group, who already have a vocalist in mind, are currently seeking a bassist to complete the band's lineup. "McGrath and I tend to be somewhat 'intricate' players, so a lot of twin attack guitaring will be happening," Smithson writes. "We hope to find a bassist that can lock in with Kontos' style and really bring the rhythm section to life." More details as they become available.
German power metallers EDGUY will be issuing a "best of" collection, entitled "Hall of Flames", on December 6 via AFM Records. The double album contains all of the group's "hits," chosen personally by the band, and digitally remastered (CD 1), as well as lots of rare and previously unreleased material (CD 2). Additionally, there will be a multimedia section as well as two video clips (CD 2). The total playing time is about 130 minutes. The first edition will come as a noble digibook with liner notes and a 24-page booklet containing lots of photos.
"Hall of Flames" track listing:
CD 1:
01. Tears of a Mandrake 02. Jerusalem 03. Out of Control 04. The Headless Game 05. Scarlet Rose 06. Nailed to the Wheel 07. Vain Glory Opera 08. Theater of Salvation 09. Key to My Fate 10. Deadmaker 11. Land of the Miracle 12. Until We Rise Again 13. The Unbeliever
CD 2:
01. The Devil and the Savant 02. Wings of a Dream (2001) 03. For a Trace of Life 04. But Here I Am 05. La Marche Des Gendarmes 06. Avantasia (live) 07. Walk On Fighting (live) 08. Wake Up the King (live) 09. All the Clowns 10. The Headless Game (live Video)
Spinefarm Records will release Platinum Edition of NIGHTWISH's "Once" album on November 24. The album will include the regular "Once" material plus the bonus songs "Live To Tell The Tale", "White Night Fantasy" and the "Nemo" video by director Antti Jokinen. On November 24, Spinefarm will also release the third single from "Once", "Kuolema Tekee Taiteilijan", containing the title track, an instrumental (orchestal) version of "Creek Mary's Blood" and a cover of MEGADETH's "Symphony of Destruction". Nuclear Blast Records will release the single in territories outside Finland under the title "Death Makes An Artist" in February. The bonus tracks are the same, but there will also be an "animated video" of the title track on this European version.
RAGE drummer Mike Terrana has announced plans to release a new solo album, entitled "Man of the World".
The CD is comprised of 11 tracks in the "instrumental rock fusion" vein, including six studio tracks and four live songs recorded in Moscow at the Premier Drum Day Festival 2003. Track 11 is a live bonus drum solo recorded in Tokyo, Japan during the most recent Japanese RAGE tour in 2002. Guest musicians on the CD include Victor Smolski (guitar, RAGE), Cyril Achard (guitar, TABOO VOODOO), Kevin Chown (bass, ARTENSION, MAGNITUDE 9) and Tony Macalpine (guitar, RING OF FIRE, STEVE VAI).
Commented Terrana: "Working as a professional musician for the past 25 years, I consider myself to be lucky enough to have seen many great things the world has to offer! I feel blessed to have had these experiences. The series of events that have occurred over the past five years during my stay in Europe has changed me… Henceforth yielding the title of my solo CD 'Man of the World'.
"I have always appreciated the art of making music and playing many different styles, because it enables me to show my evolution as a player and a person. I like to think that I am getting better or at least trying to get better!"
Drummer Horgh (ex-IMMORTAL) of HYPOCRISY has posted the following update at the band's official web site:
"I want to share some info about what's going on in the HYPOCRISY camp with you. As I write this, I have recorded the drums for the next HYPO album and I'm back in Bergen, Norway, where I live.
"I brought my new drum kit to the studio and it sounded killer. We all got impressed about how quick we found the sound we wanted. We spent like a half day finding the drum sound and then everything was ready for me to start the recordings.
"The recording process was as cool as it can get. Peter [Tдgtgren, guitar/vocals] and Mikael [Hedlund, bass] were there in the studio all the time and within three and a half day I recorded eleven new songs.
"On the 9th of November, Mikael will start recording the bass guitar. When he is done with that, I am sure he will let you know how it went here on our official ' ".
Launch Radio Networks is reporting that Rob Zombie's second project as a feature film director, "The Devil's Rejects", has been given a release date of August 12, 2005. Although a February release for the movie had been previously rumored, Zombie himself announced online last week that the picture would not be finished in time for that. "The Devil's Rejects" is the sequel to Zombie's directorial debut, 2003's "House Of 1000 Corpses". The rocker-turned-filmmaker has said that this movie will be much darker and nastier than its predecessor.
Norwegian black metallers GORGOROTH made headlines in major Latin American newspapers after the audience rioted at their show in San Salvador (capital of El Salvador) on Saturday (Nov. 6). According to a posting on the band's web site, "the audience got so ecstatic over the presence of the first black metal act visiting their country that the situation got totally out of control. The security and the police could not handle the people outside the venue so they had to call in the special forces, 'del cuerpo de Proteccion a Personalides Importantes' (PPI). When the PPI reached the venue the masses of people not getting a ticket for the already sold-out show kicked in the entrance door and lots of fighting between the audience began. The audience started to kick in doors and toilets, several injuries occured and major damages to the venue. The PPI decided in the end to use gas on the audience to get the situation under control. When GORGOROTH entered the stage 30 security people had to be on stage preventing the audience to enter it. The fighting [continued] through GORGOROTH's performance and the PPI and the police had to hold the audience inside the venue with firearms to get the band in safety. GORGOROTH [walked away] from the incident without any injuries."
GORGOROTH drew international attention in early February after they were accused of "offending religious feelings" during a concert in Poland. The band were also suspected of breaching the Polish law on protection of animals by displaying the severed and impaled heads of sheep as part of their stage act.
Norwegian "dark metallers" AETERNUS recently spent time at Grieghallen Studios in Norway recording their new album, "Hexaeon", for an early 2005 release via Nocturnal Art Productions. The follow-up to last year's "A Darker Monument" is once again being produced by Eirik "Pytten" Hundvin, who has previously worked with ENSLAVED and MÖRK GRYNING, among others.
"Hexaeon" track listing:
01. The Darkest of Minds 02. GodHead Charlatan 03. The 9th Revolution 04. In The 3rd Dwells Oblivion 05. Hexaeon 06. Punished 07. Ageless Void 08. Christbait 09. What I Crave
AETERNUS recently announced the addition of new permanent guitarist Stian.
SOLUTION 13, the Finnish band featuring SENTENCED bassist Sami Kukkohovi and POISONBLACK drummer Tarmo Kanerva, have announced the addition of singer Risto Stenroos (ex-HUMAN) to the group's ranks. Stenroos joins the band as the replacement for Ilkka Jдrvenpдд, who left the group earlier in the year. SOLUTION 13 recently spent time at Mastervox Studios recording their sophomore album, tentatively due in early 2005.
ASIA release the single “Long Way From Home“ from their new album “Silent Nation“. It will be in the shops on January 10th and contains the radio edits “Long Way From Home“ and “What About Love“ as well as previously unreleased acoustic versions of “Silent Nation“ and “Long Way From Home“; the first edition is released as a very nicely made digipak. At the end of January the German tour of the melodic rockers will start, also on the road with Asia: Barclay James Harvest (feat. Les Holroyd).
Arjen Anthony Lucassen makes no secret of it: of all AYREON albums released prior to his new crackerjack “The Human Equation“, “Actual Fantasy“ received the smallest number of interested buyers to date. This may change with the re-issue edition on InsideOut of this album originally released in 1996 because for that edition the Dutch really worked flat out: “Actual Fantasy: Revisited“ is out on December 6th on CD/DVD double package. On the CD you’ll find the newly recorded album with drummer Ed Warby, which means the drum computer from the past is passe. On the DVD you’ll find the complete original version for a direct comparison, the new “Actual Fantasy“ version in 5.1 mix, plus the video clip videoclip “The Stranger From Within“ in stereo and in 5.1 mix, and an additional video documentary telling you about the creation of “Actual Fantasy: Revisited“.
PAIN OF SALVATION are playing their first gigs in Greece after the release of their controversially discussed album “Be“. In February the DVD/CD release of the same title is going to be in out in the shops. There you’ll find the theatrical stage version of the thematic work, as it was brought to the stage in their home town Eskilstuna in Sweden last summer.
Their musical passion was never a deadly serious matter for British progsters IQ. When the band around singer Peter Nicholls used the motto “20 Years of Prog Nonsense“ for their anniversary tour 2002 this caused many laughters even among the die-hard fans that are pretty familiar with IQ’s British humour. Their birthday gig in London at the “Mean Fiddler“ club was a memorable event, among other things due a very special support act called The Lens. All this you will find on a double DVD which will be out at the end of November. This DVD will feature the complete shows of IQ and The Lens as well as a collection of infamous concert intro and outro films and a video tour documentary.
More than 15 years ago the Texan power trio KING’S X took off. Now they are presenting their first official live recording. The CD double album “Live All Over The Place“ shows guitarist Ty Tabor, bassist Doug Pinnick and drummer Jerry Gaskill across all periods of their band history and in top form. And there was no swindle by the groove rockers when they put this album together because later overdubs were not allowed!
A perfect start made keyboard player John Beck (ex-It Bites), drummer Chris Maitland (ex-Porcupine Tree), singer and guitarist John Mitchell (Arena), and bassist Pete Trewavas (Marillion) with their new band KINO. On December 8th the quartet makes its first ever live appearance for WDR‘s “Rockpalast“ in Cologne. The debut album will be out in February.
Sweden's metal machine IN FLAMES have topped the Pepsi Live charts on the Swedish music channel ZTV for the second week in a row with their latest video, "Touch of Red". The "Touch of Red" clip was shot in Los Angeles during late August/early September with director Patric Ullaeus of Revolver Film Company, who has previously worked with DIMMU BORGIR, CHILDREN OF BODOM and LACUNA COIL, among others. To view the "Touch of Red" video, visit IN FLAMES' web site at InFlames.com
Christian thrash metallers TOURNIQUET have been rejoined by longtime friend, guitarist Aaron Guerra. "As you may remember, it was a mutual parting a couple three years ago, as Aaron was starting a family and so on," the band write on their web site. "We are all now in a position to welcome him back and he is in a position to return — so... let's all give him a 'WELCOME BACK AARON'. Of course, this means you may have a chance to see TOURNIQUET live again..."
TOURNIQUET's last studio release, 2003's "Where Moth and Rust Destroy" (Metal Blade), featured special guest appearances by guitarists Marty Friedman (ex-MEGADETH) and Bruce Franklin (TROUBLE).
Switzerland's SAMAEL will release their new album, "Reign of Light", in early 2005 in North America through Galactical/Nuclear Blast Records. The CD, which was issued in Europe last month, was mixed at two different studios in Switzerland and was co-produced by Waldemar Sorychta (GRIP INC., LACUNA COIL, TIAMAT), who has worked with the group on most of their previous efforts. Mixing duties were handled by Stephan Glaumann (BON JOVI, RAMMSTEIN) in Stockholm, Sweden. A new single, entitled "Telepath", was recently released containing the title cut plus several remixes and non-album tracks.
SAMAEL's current tour, which is scheduled to end on December 6, will be extended to include five extra shows with German electro/metal outfit OOMPH! The newly added dates are as follows:
Dec. 11 - Bamberg, GER - Forum Dec. 12 - Freiberg, GER - Tivoli Dec. 16 - Bremen, GER - Aladin Dec. 17 - Trier, GER - Messeparkhalle Dec. 19 - Mannheim, GER - Capitol
Finnish melodic death/doom metallers WITHERING have parted ways with bassist/vocalist Raimo Crazyhorse. No reason was given for his departure. A replacement singer has yet to be announced.
WITHERING released their debut album, "Gospel of Madness", earlier in the year through Firebox Records. The CD was recorded at Tico Tico Studio by Ahti Kortelainen and was mastered at Finnvox studio. Audio samples are available from the group's official ' .
CHTON, the Norwegian death metal band featuring Kenneth of KEEP OF KALESSIN and Torstein of MANES, won a "Silver Frame" award at the Euro-Filmforum Scandinavia festival in Oslo for their video "Book of Black Earth" (' ). Also, photographer Lars Wara won a prize for one of the pictures he took of the band during the video shoot. Wara is featured in a two-page spread in this month's issue of the Norwegian photo magazine Fotografi.
CHTON's debut album, "Chtonian Lifecode", was recorded, mixed and mastered at Godt Selskap Studio between April and June 2004 and was released in August through Retribute Records. The album includes guest vocals by Attila Csihar (ex-MAYHEM, TORMENTOR) and Frediablo (NECROPHAGIA, GRIMFIST). A full-length MP3 of the album track "Unholy Communion" can be downloaded ' .
Launch Radio Networks is reporting that Maynard James Keenan of TOOL and A PERFECT CIRCLE appears on two politically oriented Election Day albums tomorrow (Tuesday, Nov. 2) — APC's "eMOTIVe", and as one of the performers on the "Axis Of Justice Concert Series Volume 1". Keenan said he feels the world is a more dangerous place than it was four years ago, and he blames the Bush administration. "They've had four years to reunite this country and show them that they do have good intentions," he told Launch. "They keep trying to say the world's safer without Saddam (Hussein), but it's not. They've fostered more terrorists, and we've lost control of the north and south of Iraq now. We used to have control of it, with him in power. He was contained. Now it's a mess."
"eMOTIVe" features two APC originals along with covers of political songs by JOHN LENNON, MARVIN GAYE, NICK LOWE, DEPECHE MODE, and others. The first single is a remake of Lennon's "Imagine". Keenan plans to begin working on a new TOOL album next month.
German melodic black/death metallers SUIDAKRA will enter Gernhard studio in Siegburg, Germany on Tuesday (Nov. 2) to begin recording their seventh album, "Command to Charge", tentatively due in early 2005. The group hope to complete the recording and mixing sessions for the follow-up to last year's "Signs for the Fallen" by November 25.
"Command to Charge" projected track listing:
01. Decibel Dance 02. Reap The Storm 03. The Alliance 04. Strange Perfection 05. Second Skin 06. C14_Measured By Infinity 07. The End Beyond Me 08. Dead Man's Reel (instrumental) 09. A Runic Rhyme (acoustic) 10. Gathered In Fear (acoustic) 11. Moonlight Shadow (MIKE OLDFIELD cover)
Polish black metallers BEHEMOTH have been confirmed for the upcoming KING DIAMOND/NILE/THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER tour happening in April of 2005. The tour follows their January/February co-headlining run with SUFFOCATION. Here's what Nergal (guitars/vocals) had to say:
"Hey f(r)iends! We’re touring Europe right now with INCANTATION and KRISUIN in support of our brand new record, 'Demigod'. The new songs have been sounding great live and we can’t wait to play them for our U.S. fans! It seems we will be conquering North America a few times next year; I have just gotten the confirmation for the KING DIAMOND/NILE tour. All I have to say is this is my dream line up! Playing before living legends such as the KING and NILE is more than an honor! We hope to see you all soon! HORNS UP!"
Quebec City-based metal webzine ' has posted a bunch of pictures from CRADLE OF FILTH's North American tour kick-off in Quebec City Sunday night (Oct. 31). Check them out ' .
COF’s set list:
01. Satyriasis (Intro) 02. Gilded Cunt 03. Nemesis 04. The Principle of Evil Made Flesh 05. Tortured Soul Asylum 06. Mannequin 07. Funeral in Carpathia 08. Her Ghost in the Fog 09. Nymphetamine 10. The Forest Whispers my Name 11. Painting flowers White Never Suited my Palette 12. A Bruise Upon The Silent Moon (Intro) 13. The Promise of Fever 14. Cruelty Brought Three Orchids 15. From the Cradle to Enslave
TO SEPARATE THE FLESH FROM THE BONES, the Finnish grindcore band featuring Herr Arschstein (Pasi Koskinen, ex-AMORPHIS), Rot Wailer (Niclas Etelavuori, AMORPHIS) and Pus Sypope (Gas, H.I.M.), will release their full-length debut, "Utopia Sadistica", on November 24 through Spikefarm Records (a subisidiary of Spinefarm). The 25-song effort features a special guest appearance by former CARCASS frontman Jeff Walker. "Utopia Sadistica" track listing:
01. Meatbash (' ) 02. Cold Cuts 03. Rotten Siege 04. The Final Extinction 05. Preternatural Pervert 06. Meretricious Murderess 07. Disconsolated Suffer 08. Pussyfer 09. Amputated Whore 10. Conflagration (' ) 11. Absolute Holocaust 12. Mass Of Vipers 13. Brain Drain Faucet 14. The Rot 15. Art Of Aggression 16. The Spoon 17. Bare Your Wounds For Me 18. Reek Of Excrete 19. The Revolt 20. Mutilated Virgin Slut 21. Profanity 22. Drowned In Semen 23. The Manticore 24. Drunk & Nauseous 25. Condition Dead
For more information, visit the band's official ' at this location.
Norwegian metallers GRIFFIN will enter Godt Selskap studios in Trondheim, Norway before the end of the year to begin recording their fourth full-length album, tentatively due next spring/summer via FaceFront Records. The follow-up to last year's "No Holds Barred" will be mixed by Andy LaRoque (KING DIAMOND) at his Los Angered Studio in Gothenborg, Sweden beginning on February 3, 2005. "No Holds Barred" was recorded at Skansen Lydstudio in Trondheim, Norway under the co-production guidance of CHILDREN OF BODOM frontman Alexi Laiho. In addition to co-producing the effort, Laiho laid down guest guitar and vocals on the CD.
In summer 2004 cruel true blackers of SAMHAIN (Naberezhnye Chelny, Russia) recorded their secind full-length album, "De Doctrina Diaboli", which as the first band's effort will be released through Oupiric Productions as MC release and will be in stores next winter.
Guitarist Aleksi Sihvonen of Finnish melodic thrash/death metallers IMPERANON recently recorded a song called "Pentatonic School" with a young and talented keyboardist by the name of Risto Kupiainen. You can download the track here. IMPERANON recently parted ways with guitarist Lauri Koskenniemi. Lauri decided to quit IMPERANON to focus on his other band, CRYSTAL BLAZE, according to a posting on the group's web site. A replacement for Koskenniemi has aleady been found in the shape of Teemu Mantysaari.
Izhevsk-based (Russia) true black thrashers BESTIAL recorded their new skullcrushing stuff right after their debut release, "Satanic Metal" (OUPIRIC Prods). Musicians also founded little label Trinity, which the first release is already out. This is the compilation of Udmurtia, Russia metal hordes. First BESTIAL demo tape "Bestial Control" (1994) release through Oupiric Prods is ecpected.
Chicago doomsters NOVEMBERS DOOM have completed the recording process for their new album, "The Pale Haunt Departure", and the tapes have been shipped off to the Swedish producer/musician Dan Swano (BLOODBATH, EDGE OF SANITY, NIGHTINGALE) for the mixdown. "Recording took about a week longer than originally planned due to the amount of detail we chose to focus on this time around," the band write on their web site. "This is easily the best performance from every member of the band. The artwork is also complete, and we'll be showing you the cover in the days to come." An early 2005 release through The End Records is expected.
Russian black metal band parted ways with their vocalist. However, the recording and mixing of new album is almost finished. CD will be released late this year through More Hate Prods. The name of new vocalist to be annonced soon.
With Krasnodar-based (Russia) group L.I.G.O. for release of album, "No One Safe". Band plays progressive death metal. Release-date: November 2004. With Ukrainian band CAPITOLIUM for release of second album, "Seraphim's Lair". Band plays symphonic keyboards-oriented black metal, and is known due to their debut album, "Symphony of Possession", released through OUPIRIC Productions. Also somewhere next year MORE HATE will release the CD of Belarussian band ASGUARD, "Wicca". The compilation of brutal death/grindcore bands is prepearing. CD includes BARBARITY (Kostroma, Russia), KATALEPSY (Moscow, Russia), SMERSH (Volgograd, Russia), POSTHUMOUS BLASPHEMER (Belarus).
AJATTARA, the Finnish "black/dark metal" project featuring former AMORPHIS frontman Pasi Koskinen (a.k.a. Ruoja), will release a special two-song Christmas single in Finland on November 24. Three copies of the single — containing the tracks "Ilon Pдivд" and "Hei Tonttu-Ukot Hyppikдд" — will include a special voucher entiting the holder to the traditional Finnish Christmas ham courtesy of the band's record label, Spinefarm Records. Owners of three other specially marked copies of the single will receive AJATTARA's catalog autographed by the band.
AJATTARA recently issued their third album, "Tyhjyys" ("Emptiness") through through the Spinefarm Records subsidiary Spikefarm. Recordings for the CD took place at Savonlinna's Sundi Coop studio, where AJATTARA recorded their earlier releases, "Itse" (2001) and "Kuolema" (2003).
October 28, 2004... Accept reunion confirmed! Late yesterday morning I recieved two e-mails directing me to the rock hard site which mentions a one show Accept reunion? I held off on posting anything on this site because I was hoping for some more concrete confirmation. This is strange for a couple reasons. First of all, one of the terms that I agreed with Wolf on before I interviewed him was to not ask him reunion questions. He was tired of being asked. Second of all, an announcement as blockbuster as this, why has it just been announced in one place? I thought this might have all be a mistake. I e-mailed Wolf yesterday afternoon and got this reply early this morning!
No misprint here...
It's true : We are going to play some festival shows next summer in Europe. Original good ol' Accept.
BURZUM mastermind Varg Vikernes recently gave a rare and lengthy interview to the Russian BURZUM site Burzum.org about his escape from prison last year, his political views and the possibility of a BURZUM resurrection at some point in the future. You can read it ' .
Legendary Swedish guitarist YNGWIE MALMSTEEN has signed a record deal with Universal Japan. U.S. and Europe label details are to be announced soon. Doogie White (ex-RAINBOW) has just completed his vocal parts for Malmsteen's new album, and now Yngwie and Mike Fraser (AC/DC, METALLICA, VAN HALEN, AEROSMITH) are in the mixing stages, according to a posting on Yngwie's web site. No further details are currently available.
ENFORSAKEN's video for the track "Poison Me" has been posted online at the Autumn's End Entertainment web site. Check it out: ' '
As previously reported, the Arlington Heights, Illinois-based death metallers' latest album, "The Forever Endeavor", was released in Japan on September 29 through Soundholic Records. The Japanese pressing of the CD includes four additional "bonus" tracks — three previously unreleased numbers and a cover of CARCASS' "Incarnated Solvent Abuse".
"The Forever Endeavor" was released in March through Century Media/Olympic Records.
Italian traditional heavy metallers MESMERIZE have completed the recording process for their fourth album, tentatively due in February 2005 through Dragonheart Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Off the Beaten Path" is being recorded in part at drummer Andrea Garavaglia's Octopussy studio with engineer Giovanni Spinotti, who has previously worked with LABYRINTH. Songtitles set to appear on the as-yet-untitled album include "The Burn", "Princess of the Wolves", "Bitter Crop", "Hot Lead, Cold Steel", "Field of Heroes", "Bloody Mary", "Best Place for a Knife", "Windchaser", "Triumph of the Darksword", "Lure of the Temptress" and "Monkeys In Sunday Best".
WAYSTED, the reunited semi-obscure mid-'80s British heavy metal outfit led by former UFO bassist Pete Way (hence the spelling of the group's name), have a new CD available to order via their newly launched web site.
Entitled "Back from the Dead", the album contains the following track listing:
01. The Alternativa 02. Garden of Eden 03. Dreams Don't Work Out 04. Must B More 2 It Than This 05. Price of Love 06. Breakfast Show 07. I'm Gonna Love Ya 08. Lost in Cleveland Bonus tracks on Japanese release: 09. No Place to Run 10. The Wild, the Willing and the Innocent
Finnish metallers PAIN CONFESSOR have uploaded their video for the track ' . The "Lake of Regret" clip was directed by Vesa Vainio of Vasara Productions, who have previously worked with MOKOMA, "one of the best thrashy metal acts hailing from Finland," according to a posting on PAIN CONFESSOR's web site. "Lake of Regret" comes off PAIN CONFESSOR's debut album, "Turmoil", available now through Megamania Records. PAIN CONFESSOR, who feature former members of such groups as A.R.G., JANE DOE 69 and NONSLIPLEVEL, play "melodic metal with clean and death metal vocals mixing various metal sub-genre influences into their unique style," according to an official press release. "Lots of guitar and vocal harmonies intertwine with atmospheric keyboards and tight rhythms. This is thrashy metal but there are no limits to the band's musical expression and imagination."
World Entertainment News Network is reporting that the three remaining members of the rock group QUEEN have lost a court case because they couldn't prove their nationality.
Brian May, John Deacon and Roger Taylor sued a German record label over an unsolicited release of a 1977 live recording of "We Will Rock You".
A Cologne court threw out their lawsuit because of inadequate proof of their British nationality. The QUEEN members should have been able to sue because European Union citizens have the same rights as German nationals.
The court deemed internet printouts listing their birth places as "unsuitable evidence" — deeming they did not prove their current nationalities.
IN FLAMES are at home in Gothenburg, Sweden enjoying a well-deserved break after all the tours and gigs during 2004 in support of the band's latest CD, "Soundtrack to your Escape". Guitarists Björn Gelotte and Jesper Strömblad have already begun work on new material in the band's new studio.
A reporter from the Norwegian newspaper Bergensavisen recently accompanied extreme metallers ENSLAVED on a fishing trip in Norway.
Fishing is ENSLAVED's favorite leisure activity.
"My personal record is a 113-kilo (appr. 230 pounds) fish," stated drummer Cato Bekkevold. "It took me 20 minutes before I had it in the boat."
But that is a record to be beaten in January when Cato is scheduled to go fishing in the Atlantic Ocean. And the goal is to catch a 200-kilo tuna fish. Bekkevold is also a regular contributor to fishing magazines.
ENSLAVED guitarist Ivar Peersen is also a notorious fisherman.
"When ENSLAVED needed a new drummer and Cato's name came up I must admit that I knew that he was not only a good drummer, but also an excellent fisherman," Ivar said.
"We are not into the whole image thing anymore, so beeing portrayed as fishermen is really OK," said ENSLAVED frontman Grutle Kjellson.
Click here to view pictures of ENSLAVED on their fishing trip.
The following are notable heavy metal/hard rock U.S. sales debuts for the week ending October 26, 2004, as reported by Nielsen SoundScan (The Billboard 200 chart position included, where applicable):
THE HAUNTED – "rEVOLVEr": 2,890 ISIS – "Panopticon": 2,482 BURY YOUR DEAD – "Cover Your Tracks": 2,147 DIECAST – "Tearing Down Your Blue Skies": 1,588 3 INCHES OF BLOOD – "Advance And Vanquish": 1,035 MORTIIS – "The Grudge": 418 JAG PANZER – "Casting the Stones": 334 CULT OF LUNA – "Salvation": 204
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.
"World Play" track listing:
01. Highest Ground 02. New Position 03. Another World 04. Soul Goes On 05. Peephole 06. Periled Divide 07. Praise 08. My Sanctuary 09. Friends 2 Lovers 10. Coming Home 11. Close The Door
Finnish "acid thrash" metallers SCORNGRAIN have just released their debut album, "Cyberwarmachine", via Dynamic Arts Records.
"Cyberwarmachine" was recorded and mixed at MediaWorks Studios in Joensuu, Finland and was mastered at Finnvox Studios.
"Cyberwarmachine" track listing:
01. 24-7 Hell 02. Blank 03. Cyberwarmachine 04. Flesh Means Pain 05. Killing Breed 06. 4-D Religion 07. New Paradise (bukkake remix) 08. Dawn of Hypocrite God 09. No Funeral for the Last
SCORNGRAIN have begun shooting a video for the album's title cut at Mecca Studio in Joensuu, Finland with director Harri Mielonen.
Finnish metallers MY FATE will enter the studio on November 8 to begin recording their sophomore album, tentatively due in Finland sometime next spring. A worldwide release will follow a short time later. "Needless to say, the new songs are fucking great!" the band write on their web site. "The album will be massive-sounding, diverse, dark and heavy as hell."
MY FATE's debut album, "Happiness Is Fiction", was released in the U.S. in July via Crash Music Inc.
Swedish progressive goth/death metallers THE PROVENANCE will release their third full-length effort, "How Would You Like To Be Spat At", in January via Italy's Scarlet Records.
The 53-minute follow-up to 2003's "Still At Arms Length" was recorded at Gesperrt Studios over a two-month period and is said to contain ten "brutally honest and rigid songs."
"How Would You Like To Be Spat At" track listing:
01. WoH II Tsc 02. Heroine 03. Catching Scarlet in the Sun 04. How Would You Like To Be Spat At In The Face 05. Some Gossip on Stealing a Spouse 06. Going Down 07. Considering the Gawk, the Drool, the Bitch and the Fool 08. Kick You so Hard 09. About a Whore, About a Kill 10. Speeding to Get By
KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons has posted the following message on his web site:
"Today [Oct. 23], shooting begins on my six episodic television series 'Rock School'. This is a television series that will mostly take place in England. They're filming at my home today and then I'll fly over to the U.K. where I'll be teaching 12-year-olds in their schools how to form a rock band. We will show the auditions for the band, putting individuals into a group together, showing them how to rock and actually writing a song. So far, no info on whether this will be shown in the U.S."
BEHEMOTH's new CD, "Demigod", has entered the Polish album chart at position No. 15. The Polish black metallers' latest effort left behind such artists as R.E.M. and ROBBIE WILLIAMS, according to a posting on the group's web site.
"Demigod" — scheduled for release in the U.S. in early 2005 — was mixed by BEHEMOTH frontman Nergal and producer Daniel Bergstrand (MESHUGGAH, IN FLAMES) at Dug-Out studios in Uppsala, Sweden. Mastering duties were handled at the Cutting Room studios in Stockholm. A guest appearance by NILE's Karl Sanders is included in the track "Xul".
BEHEMOTH kicked off a European tour KRISIUN, INCANTATION and RAGNAROK on Thursday (Oct. 21) in Tilburg, the Netherlands. Nergal commented: "I have to say, that I'm more than happy that we finally hit the road. It's been awhile since we toured Europe last time but what is happening at the shows goes far beyond our expectations. Great turnouts, new album is selling like hell, the band seems to be in its best shape. Tilburg was very good as for the first date of the tour, but Groningen (Holland) and Vosselaar (Belgium) were just AMAZING! I am speechless...never thought that there would be so many BEHEMOTH freaks in the crowd! Thanx for showing up!"
Former EMPEROR and current SCUM drummer Bård "Faust" Eithun has issued a statement refuting published reports that he has joined HELVETE, the new band formed by General K (DISIPLIN), Hellcommander Nattefrost (CARPATHIAN FOREST) and Nocturno Culto (DARKTHRONE). "I talked briefly with the guys about it, but before anything were settled down 100% it was already announced on the Internet," Faust said.
As previously reported, Faust's new project SCUM, in which he is joined by Samoth (ZYKLON, ex-EMPEROR), Happy Tom (TURBONEGRO), Casey Chaos (AMEN) and Cosmocrator (MINDGRINDER), has just finished recording its debut album at Crystal Canyon Studio (TURBONEGRO, WE, EUROBOY) in Norway. Although no label or album title has been finalized, provisional songtitles include "Gospels for the Sick", "The Truth Will Be Sold" and "Hate the Sane". The album also features Mortiis's participation with various lyrics.
Britain's ANATHEMA have pushed back the release date for their DVD, "Were You There", by a few weeks. "This is due to unforseen circumstances which we will explain as soon as the details can be finalized," the band write on their web site. "We will have an official release date for you as soon as we can."
"Were You There" will contain a full live show recorded on ANATHEMA's recent "A Natural Disaster" tour (believed to have been filmed at the Krzemionki TV studio in Kracow, Poland on January 31, 2004), an acoustic concert performed with a string quartet from the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, plus videos, live clips and other extra features.
"Were You There" projected track listing:
01. Intro: Childhood Dreams 02. Balance 03. Closer 04. Pressure 05. Release 06. Forgoten Hopes 07. Destiny Is Dead 08. Are You There? 09. One Last Goodbye 10. Pulled Under At 2000 Metres A Second 11. Parisienne Moonlight 12. A Natural Disaster 13. Judgement 14. Panic 15. Temporary Peace 16. Flying 17. One Last Goodbye (Acoustic, w/ Liverpool Phil String Quart) 18. Temporary Peace (Acoustic, w/ Liverpool Phil String Quart) 19. Flying (Acoustic, w/ Liverpool Phil String Quart) 20. Pressure (Promo Video Clip) 21. Release (Live In London, Nov 2002) 22. A Natural Disaster (Live In Hamburg)
Acclaimed Swedish prog-metal band ANDROMEDA will have their debut album, "Extension of the Wish" (2001), re-released in Europe on November 15 via New Hawen/Century Media. The new version will feature vocals by new singer David Fremberg, a new mix and two bonus tracks, previously only released in France by NTS. The title of the re-release is "Final Extension (Re-Release of 'Extension Of The Wish')".
As previously reported, ANDROMEDA recently entered the studio to record the remaing five songs for their forthcoming third album. The band, who were previously signed to Century Media Records, are currently negotiating with a few labels.
Dutch brutal death metal band THE MONOLITH DEATHCULT have issued a statement defending themselves against accusations that they are "known racists." Specificially, the band are speaking out in response to the following article posted at the Metalheads Against Racism web site by its webmaster, Mike Meier:
"The Dutch band THE MONOLITH DEATHCULT is using the [Metalheads Against Racism] banner on their website. Funnily enough, there's no link to us, they've just got the banner on there. THE MONOLITH DEATHCULT are known racists, I have talked to them on one of the Swiss metal message boards and made it abundantly clear what I think of them. I also know at least five people who have talked to them 'in real life' and heard them spout their racist shit. Putting the banner on their site is nothing but a hypocritical act of damage control because they're afraid nobody will book them for shows anymore now that most of the European [death metal] scene knows what a bunch of racists they are. I'm sure you'll notice they're conspicuously absent from our members list, and of course they've never contacted me about putting the banner on their site."
THE MONOLITH DEATHCULT have responded to Meier's comments by issuing the following statement:
"When you write lyrics about the slaughter and killing of Christians, no one feels offended, but when you write lyrics against the radical Islam they call you a racist. That is the tolerant view of Metalheads Against Racism.
"THE MONOLITH DEATHCULT is NOT a political band. We distinguish between race and religion. We know that most people are too retarded to take a good look at our lyrics, but we refuse to lyrically adapt and limit ourselves to suit the IQ of the contemporary metal fan.
"THE MONOLITH DEATHCULT treats historical happenings as they occured throughout the ages. Sometimes it happens that a topic is treated which certain people rather would not be reminded about because of the heinous deeds of their forefathers."
THE MONOLITH DEATHCULT will release their sophomore album, "The White Crematorium", on January 24, 2005 through Karmageddon Media.
Congratulations to Linea 77 who have been nominated in this years prestigious MTV Awards. They have been nominated for Best Italian band and will be rubbing shoulders with the likes of LAVIGNE, FRANZ FERDINAND and GREEN DAY when the awards are broadcast live on MTV Networks throughout Europe on November 18th. So let?s make sure they win ... You can help make this happen by following this link (' ) and voting for Linea 77!
Swedish noisecore stars Cult Of Luna blew away audiences in the UK with the new material from their critically acclaimed new album "Salvation". Their follow up to "The Beyond" finds the band in a slightly mellower mood, but they haven't lost any of that crushing intensity, that is seeing them leading the burgeoning noisecore scene at the moment.
UK's 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. BIOMECHANICAL's debut album, "Eight Moons", was released last year through Revolver Records.
THE CHASM's debut album for Wicked World "The Spell Of Retribution" will be released in UK & Europe on 8th November 2004. The 66 minute long heavy metal epic takes a lot of it's influences from the band?s South American background incorporating spirtuality, ancient heritage, philosophy and a genuine reverance for their background. Through the band's 10 year career they have never lost sight of their love of the metal classics that inspired them (SLAYER, JUDAS PRIEST and BATHORY) but THE CHASM are unique, no-one else sounds like them.
Danish wrecking crew EXMORTEM have signed a multi-album worldwide recording deal with Wicked World. Brandishing a particularly savage brand of twisted Death Metal as their weapon of choice, EXMORTEM have released their two previous albums via Hammerheart and Osmose, and toured Europe last year with Necrophagia. The band will release their debut for Wicked World "Nihilistic Contentment" on 17th January 2005. Recorded at Antfarm Studios in Denmark by Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, HATESPHERE. MNEMIC). "Nihilistic Contentment" contains 10 barbaric tunes, blending musical precision with lyrical depravity in equal measures. EXMORTEM's Sigtyr had this to say about the band's new union. "We are very proud to announce that we have signed with one of the world's leading labels in extreme music!! With a crew that have worked to be on the forefront of the scene for 15 years or more, we feel confident that we have found the best home for Exmortem. We will do our best to make this a success and the new album should be the first step in that direction!" Expect EXMORTEM tour dates to be announced shortly!
The new USURPER opus, "Cryptobeast", is a balls-out crushfest of some of the most devastatingly true, anthemic black/death/thrash metal of this millennium and is due for release on 17th January 2005 in the UK & Europe and on the 8th February in the US and Canada. Those of you lucky enough to live in USURPER's home town of Chicago will get a preview at an exclusive listening party in the city.
Long-running Dutch death metallers PENTACLE will enter the Harrow Productions studio in Losser, the Netherlands in October to begin recording their new album, tentatively due in early 2005 through Iron Pegasus Records. "Eight tracks are going to be featured on the album, while two others are scheduled for a 7" which is going to be released some months after the album," the band write on their web site. "The vinyl version will be released with a gatefold cover." 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
Finnish "epic heathen metallers" MOONSORROW have entered Tico Tico studio in Kemi, Finland to begin recording their new album, "Raah Raah Blaah", for an early 2005 release through the Spinefarm Records imprint Spikefarm. "This album is going to be a bit different release, as we thought not repeating ourselves musically and lyrically," stated guitarist/vocalist Henri Sorvali. "So, no more overlenghty boring songs and epic shit, but some seriously pure aggression, hate and even some politics. (!!!!) Some of you might think it?s not acceptable for taking a step forward (backward?) but might I remind you that it is us who decide the direction of the band, not you."
The complete track listing for the effort, according to the band, is as follows:
01. Kuolema Taidehomoille...Ja Muille 02. Puutarhurin Painajainen 03. Myin Lapsesi Jammu- Sed?lle 04. Vitun Runkkarit Ja Muut 05. Saatanan Lehm? 06. Homo Jeesus 07. Saatanan Saksalaiset, Teist? Ei Oo Mihink??n 08. Shitter Limited On Maailman Paras B?ndi (Feat. Vitummoista P?rin??) 09. Vapauttakaa Matti Nyk?nen 10. Matti Vanhanen On Homo Joka Ei Kest? Viinaa 11. Juutalaiskysymys? 12. Morjens!!!! 13. Anna Pillua Jonne Aaron 14. Vitun Verhoilijavitunmestari 15. Perspillu Ja Hyv?t Vitut (Puh Runku) 16. Se Hyv? Biisi 17. Kumipaskiainen 18. Hakaristi On Oikeesti Kaunis 19. Bjarne Kallis Ty?nn? Risti Vittu Perseeseen 20. Ime Meisseli? Silikoni- Janita 21. Outro: Viikset
Swedish power metallers HAMMERFALL will enter Lundgaard Studios in Denmark with producer Charlie Bauernfeind (BLIND GUARDIAN, GAMMA RAY, RAGE) on Saturday (Sep. 4) to begin recording their new album, tentatively due on March 7, 2005 through Nuclear Blast Records. A single will precede the album on January 31. Songtitles set to appear on the follow-up to 2002's "Crimson Thunder" include "The Templar Flame", "Born to Rule" and "Fury of the Wild".
Stockholm, Sweden's BLACKSHINE have parted ways with SPV/Steamhammer Records and have inked a new deal with Escapi New Media Entertainment (NME). The group have just completed work on a new studio album, "Lifeblood", due in January 2005. "Lifeblood" marks the recording debut with the group of drummer Stipen (ex-MERCILESS, DIA PSALMA/STREBERS, TRANSPORT LEAGUE), who replaced H?kan Eriksson in 2002. The follow-up to 2002's "Soulless & Proud" is said to be the band's "most interesting and catchy album" to date.
SHADOWS FALL's "Destroyer of Senses" and STAMPIN' GROUND's "Don't Need A Reason to Hate" will be used in the new Eidos video game, entitled "Backyard Wrestling 2: There Goes The Neighborhood". The game will launch on October 12.
German power metallers GRAVE DIGGER will enter Principal studio in M?nster,Germany on Saturday (Sept. 4) to begin recording their new album, tentatively due on January 17 through Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to last year's "Rheingold" will feature "classical heavy metal" material "in the tradition of GRAVE DIGGER," according to a posting on the group's web site.
RAGE guitarist Victor Smolski has completed work on his new solo CD, "Majesty & Passion". "It was a real challenge to get a sound after mixing [that] came close to Victor's expectation," reads a posting on Smolski's web site. "Imagine, more then 20 well known international guests were co-operating on 'Majesty & Passion'. With the professional help of Frank Itt the sound became real fat, just like Victor expected."
W.A.S.P. frontman Blackie Lawless is quite possibly the busiest man in hard rock currently. Having just completed a nationwide and European tour in support of the first act of the band's 2004 two-part conceptual opus, "The Neon God", W.A.S.P. is planning yet another run around the world to support the forthcoming conclusion of said epic, entitled "The Neon God Part 2: The Demise", which is slated for release through Sanctuary/Metal-Is Records on September 28.
Blackie was ardent in his mission to make "The Neon God Part 2: The Demise" as potent and intense as its story dictates, so much so, that he was flying back & forth between venues and his Fort Apache studios in Burbank, CA during the first two weeks of the band's summer tour.
Long-running Swedish death metallers DISMEMBER have announced the addition of bassist Johan Bergeb?ck 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 Bergeb?ck 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."
According to local media reports and Ticketmaster.com, the September 4 Ozzfest show has been officially cancelled. The concert, which was scheduled to be held Saturday in West Palm Beach, FL, was called off because Hurricane Frances is expected to hit the area around the weekend.
Frances' center Wednesday night was about 585 miles east-southeast of West Palm Beach and was moving west-northwest at about 14 mph, according to the Casper Star Tribune. Residents of Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina watched the forecast closely in case Frances took a sharper turn to the north.
If Frances hits Florida, it could be the most potent two-hurricane combination to hit a single state in at least a century of record-keeping. Frances is as strong as Hurricane Charley — which raked Florida's western coast less than three weeks ago with 145 mph wind, causing billions of dollars in damage and killing 27 people — but forecasters said it could become a Category 5 with winds of 156 mph or higher.
EPICA will be releasing their first DVD, "We Will Take You With Us / 2 Meter Sessies", on September 30. This DVD will come in a limited-edition deluxe ECO-Book (containing a 40-page booklet) with an additional bonus CD containing all of the "2 Meter Sessies" recordings.
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).
MARILYN MANSON's video for his cover of DEPECHE MODE's "Personal Jesus" has been posted online ' "Personal Jesus" is the first single off Manson's upcoming "best of" collection, "Lest We Forget", due on September 28 via Interscope. The compilation will contain rare photos and artwork by Manson himself. The "deluxe edition" will feature an accompanying DVD containing "the entire video catalog," including the previously unreleased uncensored clip for "(s)AINT", directed by Italian actress Asia Argento.
Finnish melo-death metallers OMNIUM GATHERUM have shot a video for the track "The Fall Went Right Through Here" with directors Lowlifemedia Productions (PRIMAL FEAR, EXODUS, ABORTED, IMMOLATION, OCCULT).
"The Fall Went Right Through Here" comes off the group's upcoming sophomore album, "Years In Waste", due on November 9 through Nuclear Blast Records.
The follow-up to last year's highly acclaimed "Spirits and August Light", "Years In Waste" was recorded at Sonic Pump studios in Helsinki, Finland with producer Nino Laurenne and engineer Teemu Aalto. The mastering sessions took place at Finnvox studios in Helsinki.
"Years In Waste" tentative track listing:
01. The Fall Went Right Through Here 02. Misanthropic (Let the Crown Fall) 03. Bereavement 04. No Moon & No Queen 05. Gravesilence 06. It's a Long Night 07. The Nolan's Fati 08. Black Seas Cry 09. More Withering 10. Auguries Gone
OMNIUM GATHERUM, who were previously signed to the Rage of Achilles label, have described the new material as "more of that old-school (melo)death — groovier and heavier — not that trendy-pop-death-metal-crap that's extruding everywhere."
Sonic Age Records is the name of a new Greek heavy metal record label formed by the people behind the reissue label Cult Metal Classics.
In existence since 2001, Cult Metal Classics was launched "mostly as a reissue label, trying to bring back to light some forgotten diamonds of heavy metal music," according to a press release. "The name of the label was related to re-releases, so due to the fact that we wanted to host some new bands too, a decision was made to start a label whose name and profile matched much better with a label that will be dedicated to new releases!
"The decision was made mainly after the big success of the JACK STARR'S GUARDIANS OF THE FLAME 'Under a Savage Sky' and also Greece's premier power metal band BLOODSTAINED 'Greetings from Hell' releases.
"Cult Metal Classics will remain as a branch of Sonic Age Records and will focus on limited re-issues on vinyl and CD form.
"We have already negotiated deals with great bands like OVERLORDE (U.S.A.), VALKIJA (Italy), BLOODSTAINED (Greece), MADE OF IRON (Germany), EUROFORCE (Greece / Germany) etc. so expect a new wave of fantastic releases that will be available pretty soon!"
Swedish brutal death metallers IMPERIOUS have replaced Emil Fredenmark (guitars, vocals) with Adam Skogvard (MYNJUN, PHANINDRA, ex-SLODUST, BOOK OF HOURS). The band have also found a new bassist in Rickard Thulin (MYNJUN, COERCION).
IMPERIOUS are currently writing material for the follow-up to 2003's "In Splendour" (Retribute Records), tentatively due in 2005. Songtitles set to appear on the band's sophomore CD include "Nothingness", "Congregate In Misery" and "Malignant Deception".
LACUNA COIL singer Cristina Scabbia has told MTV.com that the band are not expecting to record any of the songs they've written over the past 18 months until at least the end of the year. "Waiting for that to happen will just make me more excited for when we do the actual recording of the album," she said. "The new songs we have will be an evolution of 'Comalies' [2002], but not a huge change. I hate bands that are changing every album, because that's not a natural evolution. LACUNA COIL will be recognizable on the next album. This is how it has to be."
Scabbia also spoke about the endless comparisons between LACUNA COIL and EVANESCENCE — an assessment that many fans find unfair considering that LACUNA COIL has been together since 1994, four years longer than EVANESCENCE. "They're a good band and people like them, so why should I be upset [about the comparisons]?" she said. "It's funny, because in Europe we've been known for a while, so people say the opposite thing. They hear EVANESCENCE and say, 'Oh, is this the new single from LACUNA COIL?' "
French progressive metallers ADAGIO have announced the addition of Brazilian singer Gus Monsanto to the group's ranks. Monsanto joins the band as the replacement for David Readman (PINK CREAM 69), who was dismissed from the group in July due to professional differences.
"The 3rd studio album of ADAGIO will be released early next year."
MANOWAR have now confirmed that they have officially parted ways with Nuclear Blast Records. There has been no word yet as to which label the band may sign with next.
MANOWAR's last studio album, "Warriors of the World", entered the German Media Control chart at position No. 2 (right behind EMINEM) back in May 2002. It has since been certified gold in Germany for sales in excess of 150,000 copies.
Sweden's DARK TRANQUILLITY have begun work on a video clip for the song "Lost to Apathy" with director Roger Johansson. "Lost to Apathy" will be the first single off the band's upcoming studio album, tentatively due before the end of the year. "While it's too early to reveal any details, the end result promises to be a very different and unique piece of mayhem," a posting on the band's web site reads.
SONATA ARCTICA's new single, "Don't Say A Word", entered the Finish single chart at position No. 1. "Don't Say A Word" comes off the Finnish melodic metallers' fourth studio album, "Reckoning Night", due on October 11 through Nuclear Blast Records.
Greek black metallers VARATHRON have signed with Black Lotus Records. The group's first full-length album since 1995 will be recorded in September for an early 2005 release.
GWAR have set "War Party" as the title of their new album, due on October 26 through DRT Entertainment. The long-awaited follow-up to 2001's "Violence Has Arrived" was recorded at Wreckroom Studios in Richmond, Va. and was mixed at the Chop Shop in NYC. Handling the production duties was Glen Robinson, who worked with the band on their classic third album, "America Must Be Destroyed". Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Krosstika", "Decay of Granduer" and "War Party".
DEINONYCHUS, the one-man Dutch doom metal project featuring Marco Kehren (previously known as Odin), will release their sixth album, "Insomnia", in October through My Kingdom Music. The follow-up to 2002's "Mournument" was recorded at The Outer Sound studio in Rome, Italy with producer Giuseppe Orlando (NOVEMBRE). A re-release of "Mournument" is also planned, featuring a new layout and a video clip for the song "Ascencion – The 40th Day After Easter".
Czech Republic-based death metallers PANDEMIA are currently searching for a record label to release their upcoming third full-length album, tentatively titled "Riven". Demo versions of two new songs, "Legion Beneath" (mp3) and "Us and Them" (mp3), have been made available for free download at the band's web site www.pandemia-deathmetal.com. PANDEMIA's last studio CD, "Personal Demon", was issued in December 2002 through Lost Disciple Records.
STRATOVARIUS singer Timo Kotipelto performed several classic heavy metal covers with Finland's HEAVY LILJA ORCHESTRA. "In the orchestra there were one cello, one violin, one alto violin and one flute," the posting reads. "They had three Finnish singers singing on most of the songs. The most known singer out side Finland is Timo Kotipelto of STRATOVARIUS. The other two are also very talented singers but only known in Finland — Maija Vilkkumaa (female) and Kirka."
The orchestra played the following 80-minute set:
01. Iron Man (instrumental) 02. Powerslave (instrumental) 03. Highway Star (vocals by Kotipelto) 04. Sabbath Bloody Sabbath (vocals by Vilkkumaa) 05. Gates Of Babylon (instrumental) 06. War Pigs/Kashmir (medley) (vocals by Vilkkumaa) 07. Stairway To Heaven (instrumental) 08. Born To Be Wild (vocals by Kirka) 09. Heaven And Hell (vocals by Kotipelto) 10. I Surrender (vocals by Kirka) 11. The Sentinel 12. Paranoid/Smoke On The Water (vocals by all three singers)
Following the release of ANTIMATTER's as-yet-untitled third album late this year Duncan Patterson (ex-ANATHEMA) and Mick Moss will both concentrate on solo releases for 2005. Duncan's DEATHCAP project was announced in 2002, and has been described as "post-acid horror, like the darker side of ANTIMATTER, only much more extreme." The album will be released through Strangelight Records. In early 2004, Mick announced his forthcoming solo album, "The Immaculate Misconception", which can be described as "dark, soulful sometimes progressive rock reflecting a world full of disappointments."
To coincide with the release of ANTIMATTER's third album, the band will be releasing a free virtual video EP for download. Tracks featured are "Saviour", "The Last Laugh", "In Stone" and "Empty", all of which were recorded before a live audience. It is not known yet whether the format will be VCD (for use in DVD players) or simply a CD-ROM.
British extreme metal pioneers BOLT THROWER have announced the departure of vocalist Dave Ingram. 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 shortly to record their eighth album, (the follow up to 2001's "Honour, Valour, Pride" — the only BOLT THROWER release featuring Ingram on vocals), but the recording will now be delayed until a replacement is found.
Chicago death/thrash lords USURPER have completed work on their fifth full-length album, "Cryptobeast". Recorded at Chicago's Rax Trax Studios with producer Neil Kernon (JUDAS PRIEST, DEICIDE, CANNIBAL CORPSE), "Cryptobeast" marks the recording debut with the group of new singer Dan "Tyrantor" Lawson and the return of the band's original drummer, Joe "Apocalyptic" Warlord.
"Cryptobeast" track listing:
01. Bones of My Enemies 02. Supernatural Killing Spree 03. Kill For Metal 04. Conquest of The Grotesque 05. Return of The Werewolf 06. Reptilian 07. Cryptobeast 08. Wrath of God 09. Warriors of Iron and Rust (new version) 10. (untitled instrumental track)
"Cryptobeast" is now in the mastering stages and is slated for a March 2005 release through Earache Records.
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), will enter Jailhouse studio in Horsens, Denmark on September 6 with producer Tommy Hansen (HELLOWEEN, PRETTY MAIDS) to begin recording their sophomore album, tentatively due in early 2005 through Escapi. 12 new songs will be recorded for the effort, which is being described by the band as "raw" and "more brutal" than the group's debut.
Atlanta-based technical death metallers DAATH have recruited former DEATH/TESTAMENT guitarist James Murphy to mix their second album, tentatively titled "The Hinderers". "We are currently in pre-production and expect to start tracking in November," the band write on their web site. "We're going to slow down on booking gigs in order to allow more time for song tweaking." An early 2005 release is expected.
Botswana's WRUST, the only known all-black extreme/death metal band in Africa, have confirmed the track listing for their as-yet-untitled debut album, scheduled for release later this year through Witchdoctor Records. The group will enter the studio in October to begin recording the effort, which will be available via mailorder at WitchdoctorRecords.com. The tentative track listing is as follows:
01. Cleansing Ritual 02. Kill or Be Killed 03. Breeding the Undead 04. Mortal Decay 05. Run 06. Rise of the Prowler 07. The Killing God 08. Fate 09. Why Me
Former THE 3RD AND THE MORTAL "goddess of beauty" Kari Rueslåtten will release her fourth solo album, "Other People's Stories", on September 27 through GMR Music. The follow-up to 2002's "Pilot" is said to be "filled with [Kari's] best songs to date as well as wonderfully produced."
With regards to the album's title, Kari had previously stated, "The idea behind this title is that all the songs tell somebody's story, but their story could also be my own. People make choices that sometimes is beyond our understanding. But if we were to be in their position we might have done exactly the same."
ANTHRAX guitarist Scott Ian has commented on winning the "Spirit of Rock" award at the Kerrang! Awards, which were held Thursday night (August 26) at The Brewery in central London.
"Comrades, we won at the Kerrang awards!" Scott writes on the group's web site. "They gave us the award for 'Spirit Of Rock' which is given to a band that has changed the face of music and has been a major influence on others. It was really cool. The event itself is huge. I had no idea it was so big. They had a killer video presentation showing clips of our whole career, from 'Madhouse' to 'What Doesn't Die' with a voiceover giving our history. Rob and I had no clue that we were getting this. It was kept secret from us the whole time. I thought we were nominated in a category with other bands so when they announced this award and said this year's winners etc. etc. I realized they had picked us for the award. Rob and I went up and I gave a very excited and brief thank you speech and then we were whisked off to the press room for all kinds of TV and radio. It was really cool to be recognized by a magazine that I've been reading since before ANTHRAX..."
METALLICA were named Best Band On the Planet at the Kerrang! Awards, beating out the likes of SLIPKNOT, THE DARKNESS, H.I.M., RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS and BLINK-182. VELVET REVOLVER, the new group composed of former members of GUNS N' ROSES and STONE TEMPLE PILOTS, won Best International Newcomer, while THE DARKNESS were named Best British Band. The spandex-clad rockers also won Best Live Band for the second year running.
Producer/manager Christopher Tuffin, who has managed such metal acts as PAINMUSEUM, as well as members of the band HALFORD, has teamed up with former NFL star Glenn Cadrez to form a new horror entertainment company, BloodWorks.
Tuffin says that he wants to build stronger ties between the hard rock/metal community and the horror filmmakers.
"Like metal, horror isn’t just a genre — it's a way of life for a lot of fans," he said. "They both allow their artists to question authority, explore fears and lash out at the status quo, so it makes perfect sense to build their respective awareness via soundtracks, casting and other cross promotions that will expose each of them to a wider audience.”
NIBIRU, the long-running project featuring Overlord of cult U.S. black metal band CRIMSON MOON, have officially released a demo CD through Kthulu Productions. “8 spells running 30 mins in length. ...containing rehearsal tracks from both full length CD's to be released in the future on Kthulu Productions”.
German melodic black metallers SYCRONOMICA have inked a two-album deal with Black Attack Records. The group's debut CD, "Paths", is scheduled for release on October 18.
"Paths" track listing:
01. Intro 02. Erased By Light 03. Creations Of Mine 04. Paths ( ...Of A Forgotten Time) 05. In Silence I Die 06. Durch Das Ge?st 07. Vampiric Dances 08. Something From The North 09. Lost 10. The Sound Of Horns
Denmark's modern thrashers MNEMIC have finished filming a video for their new single, "Deathbox", with director Patric Ulleaus (DIMMU BORGIR, IN FLAMES, LACUNA COIL) of Revolver Films. The video was shot in Gothenburg, Sweden at the Revolver Studios.
Sweden's FALCONER have announced the addition of bassist Magnus Linhardt to the group's ranks. FALCONER are continuing to write material for their next studio effort, tentatively due next spring. Around eight new songs have been completed so far, including "No Tears For Strangers", "Purgatory Time", "Humanity Overdose" and "Power". Guitarist Stefan Weinerhall said on new material that “ it’s gonna be a bit faster and harder."
The band have yet to announced a replacement for guitarist Anders Johansson, who left the group earlier in the year.
Italian gothic black metal band GRAVEWORM, featuring former ABIGOR and current DARKWELL/SHADOWCAST drummer Moritz Neuner, will enter Stage One studios in B?hne, Germany in September to begin recording their new CD, tentatively due in early 2005 through Nuclear Blast.
Swedish black metallers MARDUK have finished tracking the drums, guitars and bass for their ninth full-length album, tentatively due in November. The band will soon return to Endarker studio in Norrk?ping, Sweden to begin recording the vocals, according to a posting on their web site. The group's forthcoming CD will be their first recording with new singer Mortuus (previously a member of FUNERAL MIST and TRIUMPHATOR under the alias Arioch).
FEAR FACTORY have finished filming a video for the track "Bite the Hand That Bleeds". The song, which comes off the group's latest CD, "Archetype", will be featured on the soundtrack to the upcoming horror film "Saw", due in theatres nationwide in mid-September.
Sweden's ENTOMBED have set an October 20 Scandinavian release date through Threeman Recordings for their new album, "Unreal Estate". The CD, a document of the band's live appearances at the Royal Opera Hall (the band did a 45 mins gig surrounded by 30 ballet dancers) in Stockholm, Sweden, will be issued in the rest of Europe on November 8 through Plastic Head distribution. An extensive booklet with pictures from the performances will be included with the album.
Продюсер Кевин Ширли (DREAM THEATER, IRON MAIDEN, SLAYER) разместил на своем сайте следующее сообщение:
«Все, чем я занимаюсь последнее время, похоже на профессиональное самоубийство. Я устал от того, что всевозможные конторы и менеджеры групп смешивают нас – звукоинженеров и продюсеров – с дерьмом, и мы терпим, ведь на самом деле, работы для нас не так много и нам приходится едва ли не побираться. То, что на запись в наше время выделяются смешные деньги, лейблы аргументируют большими затратами на рекламу. Согласен, но почему сегодня на запись выделяется меньше денег, чем тридцать лет назад?!. Я слушаю старые альбомы BLACK SABBATH и поражаюсь, насколько кропотливо относились к процессу записи в то время, и насколько безалаберно относятся сейчас. Я не дурак называть этих людей по именам, но лишь бегло взглянув на мой график, вы поймете, о ком идет речь. Сейчас все стремятся сэкономить, не думая, что в последствии придется очень сильно пожалеть. На самом деле, с того самого дня, как я вернулся из Лондона, я ни гроша не увидел от всех этих директоров и менеджеров, несмотря на те безумные временные рамки, которые они так любят ставить, и все их просьбы исправить хреново записанные альбомы. Так, одна компания попросила меня смикшировать целый альбом за $5000. В лучшем случае, на эту работу ушла бы неделя, а расценки нашей студии $2000 в день!!! Интересно, чем, по их мнению, я должен платить по своим счетам и кредитам...»
ANNIHILATOR mastermind Jeff Waters is in talks with three different companies about releasing the group's first-ever DVD. "The Campbell Brothers will be doing it so it will be a really entertaining DVD," Waters writes on the band's web site. "Well worth the 15-year wait for a video/DVD release from us. I will let you know what will be on it but i can assure you, it will be a big-selling item. TONS of rare and priceless stuff. This REALLY will be a special thing. Trust me on that one!"
In addition to releasing a "proper" ANNIHILATOR DVD, Waters says that there are also plans to issue a second DVD that will be "kinda half an instructional guitar/ANNIHILATOR video: me jamming to some of the songs/solos on the CDs and playing some easy ones and hard ones. BUT the other half should be a really entertaining one: lots of me talking about how cds were recorded, tour of my studio, guitars, amps, all the neat and interesting stuff ya always wanted to know. AND A LOT OF RARE FOOTAGE AND AUDIO. So this will not be just for guitarists, but for bassists and all fans of ANNIHILATOR!"
Official release date of debut album "Winter Wood" (cover ' ) of Russian progressive folk metal band TUMULUS is set on September this year through Wroth Emitter.
Tracklist: 01. Stin' 02. Odolen-Trava 03. Yavir 04. Morok Uzrev 05. Krada 06. The Thread 07. Tam, Gde Zhili Sviristeli 08. Vo Luzeh (Omutkovo Lyady) 09. Resnoty Sont'... 10. Winter Wood
The recordings of the third album of Russian Modernized Black Metal formation THERM.EYE.FLAME entitled "To Evolution?!" are in full swing. "To Evolution?!" features 10 the most non-standard, rigid, depressive and high-leveled tracks in the history of the projec, about 45 min of total time. Tracklist: 01. Sectors Of Madness p.1 02. Sectors Of Madness p.2 03. Complex Structure Of A Cold Space 04. Social Polarization 05. The Platform 06. Vacuum Of The april's Waves 07. Radar With Arrival Angel 08. Outer Drug 09. To Evolution?! p.1 10. To Evolution?! p.2
The recordings will approximately be completed by September this year. Due to the recent band's leaving from the main publisher More Hate Productions a label through which the new album will be released is still unknown. Also T.E.F. are working on a new logotype!
Kaluga, Russia based band FESTERGUTS prepared three-song promo CD for western labels to sign a deal for publishing the full length album. You can download the title track from this CD - ' .
Withcraft Productions (label, founded by Black Minds webzine) presents the release of debut of cult Russian band TWILIGHT IS MINE. The name of album is "When The Twilight Covers The World" and after some years of forgetfullness finally comes out as limited edition. Nine tracks of full of coldness true Black metal with occult breathe and atmospheric passages.
Tracklist: 1. Intro - 96 2. When The Twilight Covers The World - 96 3. Antihuman - 96 4. Hail, Ragnarok! - 97 5. Evil Is My Lifeforce - 97 6. To You, O Forest - 97 7. The Triumph - 97 8. Backwoods Dreams - 96 9. The lullaby In Storm - the evil version of P. Tchaikovsky - 99 Professional CD-R release, bw booklet, box, press-release. Attention! Only 100 copies! In order to buy TWILIGHT IS MINE "When The Twilight Covers The World" album contact label at: ' , '
DARKANE's drummer Peter Wildoer seems to have recovered from his wrist injury which afflicted him several months and also delayed working on a new album. Now that he can play again properly DARKANE will soon start rehearing new material and enter the studio as quickly as possible.
NIGHTWISH got certified with a golden record both in Switzerland (20.000 sold copies) and Norway (25.000 sold copies) for their hit album "Once"! Single "Nemo" has passed the golden border in Norway as well and gets certified too for more than 5.000 sold CDs. On September, 20th the new NIGHTWISH Single „Wish I Had An Angel“ will be releasesd. Besides the album version, there will be a special edit + the demo version of the hymn. Besides those, the single features exklusivly the instrumental version of „Ghost Love Score“ and the unique cover version of „Where Were You Last Night“ from A. Bagger. The enhanced part features the video clip of „Wish I Had An Angel“, plus a photogallery and a screensaver.
Danish modern thrash metallers MNEMIC will release their new album "The Audio Injected Soul" on September 27th through Nuclear Blast. The record – produced once again with Tue Madsen in the Danish Antfarm Studios in Aarhus - features ten highly dynamic and fast tracks; furthermore MNEMIC worked a lot with melodies and provided the new songs with strong and catchy refrains. The tracklist of "The Audio Injected Soul" is as follows:
01. Dreamstate Emergency 02. Door 2.12 03. Illuminate 04. Deathbox 05. Sane Vs. Normal 06. Jack Vegas 07. Mindsaver 08. Overdose in the Hall of Fame 09. The Silver Drop 10. Wild Boys (DURAN DURAN cover)
The new yet untitled BAL-SAGOTH album will hit the stores in early 2005 – the band is confident to finish the major studio work during autumn. BAL-SAGOTH sixth record shall content all trademarks the guys are adored for: Dark Fantasy Metal with elements of Death and Black.
Long-running Austrian extreme metallers PUNGENT STENCH have completed work on their new album, "Ampeauty" (view cover ' ), due on September 6 through Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to 2001's "Masters Of Moral - Servants Of Sin" will contain the following track listing:
01. Lynndie (She-Wolf Of Abu Ghraib) 02. Invisible Empire 03. The Amp Hymn 04. The Passion Of Lucifer 05. Got Mail 06. Human Garbage 07. Apotemnophiliac 08. No Guts, No Glory 09. Same Shit - Different Asshole 10. Fear The Grand Inquisitor Check PUNGENT STENCH very soon on Metal Heads Mission festival in Ukraine!
Swedish power metallers SEVENTH ONE have set "What Should Not Be" as the title of their sophomore album, due on September 27 through Armageddon Products. Songtitles set to appear on the follow-up to 2002's "Sacrifice" include "Scattered", "How Many Years" and "Eyes Of The Nation". In related news, the "Armageddon Over Wacken" DVD now has an August 2 release date. SEVENTH ONE will be featured on the disc with the track "Crimson Sky" and not "Hallowed Ground", as previously reported.
Moonfog Records has set a September 6 release date for the new DARKTHRONE album, "Sardonic Wrath". The follow-up to last year's "Hate Them" features cover artwork by Lorenzo Mariani (MARDUK, ABORYM) and contains the following track listing:
01. Information Wants To Be Syndicated (4:20) 02. Sjakk Matt Jesu Krist (4:03) 03. Straightening Sharks (3:26) 04. Alle Gegen Alle (3:21) 05. Mann Tanker Sitt (3:04) 06. God Of Doubt (4:33) 07. Silent Majority (3:56)
Candlelight Records has set October 19 and November 2 as the reissue dates for EMPEROR's four genre-defining albums. "Wrath of the Tyrants", "In the Nightside Eclipse", "Anthems to the Welkin at Dusk", and "IX Equilibrum", all currently out of print in the U.S., have been reworked with additional bonus footage and material unavailable on both European and U.S.-licensed versions. In documentary style, each of the four recordings have been enhanced with live and studio footage. "Wrath of the Tyrant", being part one, "includes very rare, exclusive footage of pre-'Nightside' rehearsals plus live outtakes from our first tour (in support of CRADLE OF FILTH, 1993)," says guitarist Samoth. "In the Nightside Eclipse", part two, "includes edited material from a live show in Oslo for the song 'Towards the Pantheon', as well as various other clips from live recordings in 1997." "Anthems to the Welkin at Dusk" "starts off with a band interview on Finnish TV talking about 'Anthems' and then various live clips from 1997-98, including cool clips from the Dynamo Festival," continues Samoth. "Part four, 'IX Equilibrium', starts off with a clip from the No Mercy Festival tour and then follows us to the U.S. for our first and only headline American tour in 1999." "IX Equilibrium" concludes the four-part enhancement series with a clip from the Mystic Festival in Poland, the final EMPEROR performance. On August 24, Candlelight will release "Emperial Live Ceremony", the DVD version of the band's only official live recording. The 70-minute, high quality universal-zoned DVD was filmed at London's Astoria Theatre.
TARTHARIA second album "Abstract Nation" released through Crash Music Inc on October, 2004. Mixed by Anssi Kippo at ASTIA-A Studio. Nice sound production. Frontcover inspired by creativity of John santerineross. TARTHARIA debut was released in autumn 2003 by Crash Inc and got vivid response among death/black metal fonders. "Abstract Nation" is more into thrash metal traditions but basically keeps death/black metal line. Release date 10-5-2004.
DOKKEN's latest CD, "Hell To Pay" (Sanctuary), has sold 3,735 copies during its first week of release, according to Nielsen SoundScan. Meanwhile, CATTLE DECAPITATION's "Humanure" (Metal Blade) registered a first-week tally of 733, while DREAM EVIL's "The Book Of Heavy Metal" (Century Media) and ANCIENT's "Night Visit" (Metal Blade) shifted 570 and 134 units, respectively.
San Francisco power/thrash metallers IMAGIKA have finished mixing their fourth full-length album, "Devils on Both Sides", tentatively due later in the year through an as-yet-undetermined label. A tentative track listing as follows:
01. In Your Shadow 02. Spellbound 03. Hexed 04. Devils on Both Sides 05. Last Battalion 06. Back to the Beginning 07. Voice of Prejudice 08. Dead Eye-Stare 09. Evils Rising 10. Vigilante
Final cover artwork for the CD was produced by IMAGIKA drummer Henry Moreno.
CHILDREN OF BODOM's upcoming EP, "Trashed, Lost & Strungout", will include cover versions of ALICE COOPER's "Bed Of Nails" and ANDREW W.K.'s "She Is Beautiful" and also feature two new songs. A late summer/early fall release through Spinefarm Records is expected. Meanwhile, CHILDREN OF BODOM recently shot a video for the EP's title track, "Trashed, Lost & Strungout", in Sweden with director Patric Ullaeus (DIMMU BORGIR, IN FLAMES, LACUNA COIL).
A brand-new INCANTATION track, entitled "Decimate Christendom", has been posted online. This is the title track of the Pennsylvanian death/grind band's upcoming album, scheduled for release on August 30 through Listenable Records. A European tour with KRISIUN, BEHEMOTH and RAGNAROK will kick off in mid-October.
FEAR FACTORY's video for "Archetype", the title track of their recently released CD, has been posted online. The "Archetype" clip was shot in Los Angeles, CA and was directed by Cesario "Block" Montano.
Metal Blade Records has set an October 5 release for the new FATES WARNING album, "FWX". The follow-up to 2000's "Disconnected" was recorded at Carriage House studios in Stamford, Connecticut and was described by drummer Mark Zonder as "very powerful and strong." Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Left Here", "River Wide Ocean Deep", "Another Perfect Day", "Stranger (With A Familiar Face)" and "Wish".
The insane French duo Carnival In Coal have signed a multi-album deal with Earache / Elitist. Here's how the band describe themselves: "Imagine what would happen if Frank Zappa, Faith No More and Mr Bungle played or had played extreme metal: black and death metal blended with disco grooves and the most sensual funk...
The band have postponed their plans to record this year, stating that they need more time to develop their ideas without rushing things. A blow to their many fans, but we can assure you it will be well worth the wait!
Brazil's ANGRA have completed work on their follow-up to 2001's "Rebirth", tentatively due this fall through SPV Records (NTS Records in France). The band have posted the following message regarding the as-yet-untitled effort: «First of all, the songs are awesome! Really, really good! The production is perfect too, the sound of instruments is even heavier and clearer than in our previous albums. The band sounds more powerful and tighter as well.»
BLACK SABBATH bassist Geezer Butler has set "Ohmwork" as the working title of his new solo album, tentatively due next year. "It would have been out this year, but I've had to delay it because of Ozzfest," Butler told Bass Player magazine.
British extreme metallers CRADLE OF FILTH have revealed artwork and the complete track listing for their new album, "Nymphetamine", tentatively due late September through Roadrunner Records.
01. Satyriasis (Intro) 02. Gilded Cunt 03. Nemesis 04. Gabrielle 05. Absinthe with Faust 06. Nymphetamine (Overdose) (feat. Liv Kristine) 07. Painting Flowers White Never Suited My Palette (Instrumental) 08. Medusa and Hemlock 09. Coffin Fodder 10. English Fire 11. Filthy Little Secret 12. Swanson For A Raven 13. Mother of Abominations
Ex-THEATER OF TRAGEDY star Liv Kristin made guest appearance on «Nymphetamine».
Members of Swedish band NARNIA pursue solo projects. So as singer Christian Rivel is at the moment working on THREE different solo projects, AUDIOVISION, FLAGSHIP and DIVINEFIRE (the last one features NARNIA’s bassist Adreas Olsson as well). Guitarist Carl Grimmark has just finished recording with SAVIOUR MACHINE for their forthcoming album and is now working on songs for the next NARNIA album. Drummer Andreas Johansson replaced Mikkey Dee (MOTЦRHEAD) this summer with Swedish artist E-TYPE and will be on tour with him until August. Keyboardist Linus Kеse just got married and is at the moment on honeymoon with his wife Maria! CONGRATULATIONS!!
Classic German power metallers STORMWITCH have signed with Nuclear Blast Records. The group will release their ninth album, "Witchcraft", on November 8. In addition to founding member and vocalist Andy Mьck, the group's current lineup features the guitar players Fabian Schwarz (ex-TYRAN PACE) and Martin Winkler (ex-NIGHTWOLF), bass player Dominik Schwarz, keyboardist Alexander Schmidt (ex-TYRAN PACE) and drummer Marc Oppold (ex-TYRANT).
Roadrunner Records has announced the track listing for the upcoming soundtrack to the "Resident Evil: Apocalypse" movie, due on August 31.
01. SLIPKNOT - Vermilion 02. KILLSWITCH ENGAGE - The End Of Heartache 03. LACUNA COIL - Swamped 04. A PERFECT CIRCLE - The Outsider (Renholder Mix)* 05. RAMMSTEIN - Mein Teil* 06. DEVILDRIVER - Digging Up The Corpses* 07. CRADLE OF FILTH - Nymphetamine* 08. CKY - Escape From Hellview 09. DEFTONES - The Chauffeur 10. THE CURE - alt.end 11. H.I.M. - Join Me In Death 12. DEMON HUNTER - My Heartstrings Come Undone 13. THE USED - Just A Little 14. THRICE - Under A Killing Moon 15. 36 CRAZYFISTS - Bloodwork 16. COLD - End Of The World (acoustic)* 17. ROB ZOMBIE - Girl On Fire (Resident Renholder Mix)* 18. MASSIVE ATTACK - Future Proof
*=rare or unreleased track
"Resident Evil: Apocalypse", starring Milla Jovovich, opens in theaters on September 10.
The epic black metal with heavy hitting symphonies will prove that they are not just another black metal band. The band’s debut album "Reign of the Unholy Blackened Empire" was produced by Glen Drover (EIDOLON) and mastered by Andy LaRocque (KING DIAMOND). Look for it this October. "Reign of the Unholy Blackened Empire" track listing (in no particular order): 01. Desolation Forms My Mind's Eye 02. A Knife In The Dark 03. Sacrifice Love To The Gods Of Hate 04. Murder Of Art 05. Awaken Ye Lords Of The Dark 06. Infested With The Human Disease 07. The Eternal King From Below Doth Arise 08. Heralds Of The Apocalypse 09. Reign Of The Unholy Blackened Empire 10. Storming The Pearly Gate 11. Heavens Burning In Hell's Embrace 12. Requiem For The Fallen
Jorg Michael (STRATOVARIUS) has replaced Fritz Randow on drums for upcoming tours and the next album dubbed ‘Lionheart’ - Randow has left the Saxon to pursue other projects but may rejoin the band in the future.
DIE APOKALYPTISVHEN REITER have announced their 5th studio album. "Samurai" will be recorded in Juli/August at the famous Antfarm Studio (MNEMIC, EKTOMORF and others) in Denmark. You can expect another devilsride far from any convention. 13 brandnew tracks will be recorded, the limited edition will feature a bonus DVD. A video will be shot for the release as well.
CATHEDRAL are currently working on material for their eighth album. This will be the band's debut for label Nuclear Blast, 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.
Hailing from Richmond, Virginia, Municipal Waste are the reigning kings of the New Wave of Crossover. Municipal Waste deliver blazing fast, raw thrash-core in the tradition of DRI, Suicidal Tendencies, "Animosity"-era Corrosion Of Conformity, Nuclear Assault,The Accused and Attitude Adjustment. All barely in their 20's, the members of Municipal Waste inject youthful energy and humor into a classic genre they were too young to catch the first time around..
Deicide have abruptly ended their 'Scars Of The Crucifix' European tour before even playing one date. After a performance at the Dynamo festival on June 5, the band entered the UK but declined to play the London show on Jun 8th- opting instead to fly home to Florida, citing their anger and frustration at the transportation and financial arrangements provided by the tour agent. It does not affect any other shows Deicide have booked in the USA, or their appearance at Wacken.
Decapitated are featured in an article in US national entertainment bible, Entertainment Weekly. The article explores the controversy of the Decapitated name in the light of the recent decapitation of US citizen Nick Berg at the hands of terrorists - a situation reminiscent of the controversy surrounding the band Anthrax during the anthrax scares of 2001.
For an underground death metal band like Decapitated to be mentioned in the pages of Entertainment Weekly is quite a coup indeed. Yet as brutal and technical a band as they may be, Decapitated are no strangers to mainstream publicity. Since the release of their Earache debut, 'Winds Of Creation', the band has been covered in a host of un-metal publications, including Billboard and Spin.
Cult of Luna are hard at work in Tonteknik Studio, Sweden, recording the follow up to the masterpiece that was 'The Beyond'. Most of the basic tracks have been laid down and some of the vocals, and the material so far is sounding IMMENSE. The band sent this quick update from the studio....
"Our first recording session is over, two weeks of really hard work. Almost everything, on this first batch of five songs, is done. Things have gone really well and we've surprisingly stuck to the schedule. The only thing missing on these five songs is the electronic stuff, which will be added during the next session. During this 'inbetween sessions time', we will put the final touches on the last few songs, getting them ready for recording.......and if necessary redo some overdubs on the other songs too. We might be getting some cool and unexpected guest appearances on some songs! Stay tuned, more news from Tonteknik Studio will come in the near future.
From Monday 21st June, fans in the UK and Europe were able to buy the immense double CD package 'The Serpent's Gold' from seminal doomsters CATHEDRAL . This collection, fully endorsed & compiled by the band, covers all of their time with Earache and at over 2 1/2 hours long it contains 27 tracks with 11 of those being previously unreleased. In keeping with all Cathedral releases the artwork has been created by Dave Patchett and contains a fascinating interview with Lee Dorrian and a track by track guide for disc 2 by the riff-meister Gaz Jennings.
Disc 1 entitled 'The Serpent's Treasure' showcases all the classics like 'Midnight Mountain', 'Ebony Tears' and 'Hopkins (Witchfinder General)' and acts as a reminder (not that you should need one) of the huge contribution Cathedral have made, not just to the doom scene but heavy music generally. While disc 2 - 'The Serpent's Chest', features tracks from the legendary second demo, rare live performances, three completely unheard tunes, radically different versions of established favourites and even a Witchfinder General cover version.
Morbid Angel's Trey Azagthoth was confirmed as guest host on MTV2's Headbanger's Ball which aired Saturday, June 12. With regular Headbanger's host Jamey Jasta on tour for the month, Azagthoth took over the greater part of the show - introducing videos (including some of his own favorite picks!), discussing Morbid Angel, and generally bringing light to the closed minds of the masses.
Daniel from The Chasm sent through this message from the studio shortly after the completion of the recording for the upcoming Wicked World album 'The Spell of Retribution': 'Finally, after several delays, all the tracks have been completed,and the last 2 recording sessions took place on Sunday (vocals, leads) and Monday (acoustics). After all these layers had been finished we really can say that this is one very unique, dark and destructive piece, easily the deadliest in our career, some never before used elements were incorporated on some songs, and the true believers will be surprised - in a very positive way. We already started to do some tests with mixing, warming up with the 2 covers, the results are very satisfactory, but there's still some tweaking to do, we are going back to start the heavy work of the real mixes of the originals. Mp3's to be posted soon.'
December have officially chosen Eric Dellon as their new vocalist. A native of New York and Connecticut, Dellon has sung and played guitar and drums in such bands as Shallow Water Grave and Zombie Apocalypse (with members of Shai Hulud). December have been auditioning vocalists since founding member Mark Moots stepped down as frontman earlier this year.
Guitarist Julian Peach made this statement: "Although we will all miss Mark I think Eric will have no troubles finding his own path with the band. I know that Eric is going to help us breathe new life into the machine."
Dellon had this to say: "I look forward to bringing a new sound and shape to December and giving nothing but my best to the band and all their fans."
Dellon, Peach, drummer Jason Thomas, and bassist Asa Dakin, are currently in Reno, Nevada, writing and rehearsing material for their next Earache release.
Erebus Odora in union with Canadian label Cyclic Law, are pround to announce the upcoming release of ARCANA's 10 year anniversary special album CD titled "The New Light". As it is said in press-release, for this release Peter Bjдrgц has put together work spanning 10 Years of his work with Arcana. Lost songs from the early years, alternative recordings and new beautiful work share the space on this anniversary album. Release date scheduled for Mid July 2004, in special "Tall Digipack".
Bass drums kicked restored for GRENOUER debut album "Border Of Misty Times". Elaborate job is done by Navaho, sound producer of GRENOUER latest album "Presence With War". "Border Of Misty Times" was recorded in 1996 at ARIA Recs studios. Primary works are carried out for re-design of the debut. Later on the material is estimated to be re-mastered either in Russia or in Finland.
“Art Music Group” are going to issue under license twin DVD+CD pack from ACCEPT titled “Metal Blast From The Past”. DVD contains video of two shows played in 1985 in Osaka and in 1993 in Sophia, and includes 7 videos and some footage, gallery and bio as well. Bonus CD is due to contain some rare and unreleased records from the band.
Music of Russian bands FESTERGUTS and TVANGESTE sounds in Canadian mystic triller "Sinners And Saints"! This ilm is already the participant of many movie festivals. Hellish mix of horror themes with martial arts, phantastics and some elements of erotism. The official release date of DVD is the end of this summer. Movie will be available in all continents trough the distributors, which specialize on such pictures. The fact of participating of Russian bands is a big success! '
A debut album of Moscow(Russia)-based melodic death metal group EVERLOST, “Bitterness Of The Triumph”, was released on the 27th of March through Russian label ' . Band doesn't stop experimenting and is still on the way of searching for their own style, and musicians don't limit themselves with the boundaries of traditional Swedish death metal school. Line-up: Andrey Smirnov (lead guitar, vocals), Pavel Chernobay (guitar), Sergey Volkov (bass), Sergey Serebrennikov (drums). Tracklisting: 1. Bitterness Of The Triumph (intro) 2. Humanity Wasted 3. Servant Of Existence 4. The Paradox…. 5. Behind The Reflection 6. Heritage Of The Desolated (instr.) 7. Driven By The Phantom Pain 8. Thought Inquisition
ATTENTION! CHILDERMAS presents you the competiotion Miss ChilderMiss-2004! To take part in conpetition you need to be a girl with the age more than 17, send your picture in digital format (jpg, gif, tiff) to e-mail ' till August, 31st 2004. Photos won't be reviewed and sent back, and given to 3rd persons. Participants must give a brief info (real name, birthdate, place and country, where you live, some woeds about yourself and music tastes, thoughts about music of CHILDERMAS band). Photos must be of good quality. Pictures from porno-sites are disallowed. In the final part of competition (August, 31st 2004) photos of five pretenders, chosen by jourie will be posted on band's website for the voting. PRIZES. The winner will get G-strings with band's logo. Three more, 2nd-4th places will get CD "Argotique", signed by musicians. Competiotion jourie is management and musicians of CHILDERMAS. So, ladies, we wish you to become Miss ChilderMiss-2004! E-mail: '
Infamous prog stars SYMPHONY X are getting ready to enter the studio to lay down their new album. The band "will be giving bi-weekly (or so) studio reports with news and pictures as the writing process progresses." In the same time SYMPHONY X guitarist Michael Romeo has announced that he will be sharing his knowledge and skills this summer (July 26-30) with the students at the National Guitar Workshop in New Milford, CT.
So it has been done. Whole two entirely new albums by THERION due to Nuclear Blast/Irond records collaboration have appeared in the rock stores across the CIS states. The recordings of «Lemuria»/«Sirius B» have cost over 100,000 euros and have longed for nine months. There was 164 musicians and singers who participated in laying down these peaces, including the traditional for THERION’s stuff choir and this time full symphonic orchestra from Prague. Besides that, there are parties of Russian balalaikas and some lyrics written on the Bulgakov’s language as well. Henceforth, «Lemuria»/«Sirius B» could be easily considered as the one of the most significant achievements in metal music throughout its history. In the nearest future read the exclusive interview with Christopher Johnsson in The MetalList Webzine. The infamous musician is speaking on a concept of a new album, sharing with us his plans on the future and also revealing his expectations regarding the upcoming show in Moscow on October 18.
"Alone In The Dark", the upcoming horror movie based on the popular computer game series, will also feature an appropriate dark soundtrack. The first bands confirmed for it are modern Thrash metallers MNEMIC (Ghost), Sweden's most successful Melodic Death export IN FLAMES (The Quiet Place) and also Sweden-based Melodic Death giants SOILWORK (Departure Plan), all stemming from Nuclear Blast! Also under discussion for the OST are US thrashers DEATH ANGEL, Finland's top sellers NIGHTWISH, German Power Metal chart breakers EDGUY, US stars ANTHRAX and many more.
Danish death metallers EXMORTEM have entered Antfarm Studio in Aarhus, Denmark on May 17 with producer Tue Madsen to record their fifth album, due later in the year. A total of nine songs will be recorded and mixed during the four-week session, including "Parasite Paradise", "Symbols Of Inhumanity", "Flesh Havoc", "The Human Rape Symphony" and "Fix Of Negativity". As musicians say "The album will show the most diverse and twisted side of EXMORTEM to date!" As previously reported, EXMORTEM filmed their April 30 appearance at the Fee Metal Festival in Aarhus, Denmark for an upcoming DVD, tentatively due before the end of the year. The as-yet-untitled disc will include behind-the-scenes footage and other interesting features
EVERLOST, melodic death metal band from Moscow have recently issued their debut album via Soyuz Music. The CD has been titled as “Bitterness Of The Triumph” and appear to be a concept work, as it follows from the press release, «dedicated to controversy of the human nature, indifference and self-deceiving and struggle of spiritual and substantial». There are Andrey Smirnov from SHADOW HOST and Sergey Sergeev (SHADOW HOST, GULFSTREAM) who enter the band’s circa on guitar and back vocals respectively.
CANDLEMASS have split up… The band members say as follows: ‘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...’ By the way, there is a Candlemass tribute album in the making. OPETH, THE HELLACOPTERS, THE HAUNTED, CATHEDRAL, SATYRICON etc
A new album of these folk metal legends, ‘A Semblance Of Normality’ is to be out only in September instead of previously set May 24. This delay happened due to problems with deal partners Dreamcatcher, who must have been sharing with Demolition Records their part of distribution questions. For the most impatient fans the mailorder sales through the band’s official web site have been started out…
FOREST STREAM from Moscow are currently working on their new album, the second one already for English label Earache Records. The title is to be ‘The Crown Of Winter’ and music is promised to become more brutal and more epic than the band’s debut, ‘Tears Of Mortal Solitude’. The album will be mixed and mastered by Dan Swano himself (a man who made sound of KATATONIA, DIABOLICAL MASQUERADE and many-many more). And the artwork is to done by Ivan Bragin, renowned for his collaboration with KATATONIA, FORGIVE-ME-NOT, AMON AMARTH and NIGHTINGALE…
The band INEXIST based in Jaroslavl have finished a new album called ‘Am I Senseless?’. The work is to be published by Russian label Stygian Crypt Prod. in June. Music on the new CD, as it goes straightly from musicians, is a piece of melodic fashion death metal in genre’s best traditions.
Germany's hard-working Medieval/Modern rockers SUBWAY TO SALLY are busily writing on the follow-up album of their last years release "Engelskrieger". According to the band, the yet untitled record shall probably surface in spring 2005.
CELL DIVISION have announced that their album «Tsunami» will be released on May, 17th 2004. «Tsunami» was produced in Germany at the recording studios of Thommy Hein who has already worked with artists like Zeraphine, Tanzwut and Nina Hagen.
Angelica, the frontwoman of SHTORM (Yaroslavl’) has quit the band. The leave was initiated by the manager of the band Ruslan Svobodnyi. A new girl on a mic has been found already – Natle Storm (a student in the Yaroslavl Sobinov’s musical colledge) is to be the one. The band is currently rehearsing and planning to start recording of the new album ‘Juda’ in the nearest future. More gothic overtones are expected.
Austrian SUMMONING are on the doorstep to a new album. Six songs are already fix starters for the upcoming release. SUMMONING have already chosen several pictures and paintings for the booklet. The concept will be based on the main story of the Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien. SUMMONING wants to finish the producing process some time around autumn, so the release can be expected around December. By the way the new Kreuzweg Ost CD (Silenius’s side-project along with Martin Schirenc (PUNGENT STENCH, HOLLENTHON)) are also in finishing progression.
MORTIIS have named their new album. The title has been confirmed as ‘The Grudge’ and is scheduled for release in September 2004. The album has been recorded over the last six months at Silvertone Studios in Fredrickstad, Norway and is due to be mastered at Norway’s premier facility “The Living Room” in Oslo. Mortiis himself is saying very little about ‘The Grudge’ at the moment, other than “It may have taken a while, but we all feel that it was right to spend the last couple of years on the album. Weґre now working to meet deadline’s and I think people will be mighty surprised again”. Once ‘The Grudge’ is completed MORTIIS will be spending the summer months rehearsing for their mammoth upcoming autumn European tour.
NOX have signed a deal with Earache’s subordinate Wicked World Records. That’s what label guys say in this regards: «Without a doubt one of the most punishing extreme metal acts around today, NOX is actually made up of some familiar faces, being comprised of Rob Oorthuis (guitars), Seth v/d Loo (vocals) and Patrick Boleij(bass), formerly of CENTURIAN, the latter two currently known as members of SEVERE TORTURE, and newcomer Bob Dussel (drums).»
Recently announced as main support to SUFFOCATION's European Tour, Swedish Death Metal killing machine INSISION have completed work on their brand new album due via Wicked World on July 12. Titled 'Revealed and Worshipped' and produced by NASUM's Mieszko Talarczyk, the album features 11 tracks of ferocious Death Metal and is once again characterized by conceptual lyrics from frontman Carl Birath. In related band news drummer Thomas Daun has left the band after completing some amazing work on the album, but this will not affect the upcoming tour as INSISION already have a more than capable replacement lined up.
June 14 is a release date for the BLIND GUARDIAN’s double-DVD “Imaginations Through The Looking Glass”. The first disk will contain the band’s live performance during Blind Guardian Open Air that has taken place in Coburg (De) last summer. The second disc will be fulled up with various bonuses: interviews, footage and many-many more. Moreover, before the new DVD is finally released there will be a premier showing in select movie theaters in Germany.
THERM.EYE.FLAME has already written all the songs for their new album. More brutal, depressive and unusual stuff is expected. The band is currently going to start off recording in Southern Storm Studio.
After four years of collaboration ANOREXIA NERVOSA has now left its label Osmose Productions. The band is proud to announce that it has signed with Listenable Records finally hit the Drudenhaus Studios to record their fourth full-length album, as yet untitled. Here are some exclusive track names: Antinferno, Sister September, Codex-Veritas. Release date is still to be available.
THE CHASM have begun the process of turning their new album into reality at Soto Sound Studios in Illinois. Early indications are that the album will still feature the same epic qualities and references to ancient worlds that have become the bands trademark within the underground.
Despite the regretful departure of guitarist Jack Owen, CANNIBAL CORPSE are not going to stop and keep preparing for the upcoming “Wretched Spawn” tour. Here are some words from bassman Alex Webster published on the band’s official site yesterday: “Hey everybody, Alex from Cannibal here. I just wanted to update everyone on how we've been doing since Jack quit the band last week. We are currently teaching another guitarist our set list for the "Wretched Spawn" tour, in preparation for our shows in Mexico later this month. Jack will be missed, and we wish him well, but we're not going to let his departure slow us down. Thanks to all of our fans for the great support, we'll see you on tour!”
EWIGKEIT, Mr.Fog’s (ex-THE MEADS OF ASPHODEL) solo project, has signed to Earache Records. New album "Radio Ixtlan" is set for release on 12th July 2004.
Dutch death metaller SINISTER have officially decided to split up. "After 16 years of serving, SINISTER is no more…", Aad Kloosterwaard explains. "It was a hard decision for me, SINISTER was a way of life for me. But sitting behind the drum-kit for almost 20 years and having a full-time job is hard for me to combine." But Rachel and Ron will continue their musical career with their new band INFINITED HATE.
Florida's Death Metal maniacs MALEVOLENT CREATION have completed their ninth studio album named "Warkult". The band recruited Jean Francois Degenais (KATAKLYSM) as producer. And besides all, the album marks the return of long time drummer Dave Culross back in the line up. "Warkult" shall be released on June 28th across Europe, in the USA and other territories about a month later.
The German act DISBELIEF has signed a new contract with Nuclear Blast. New album will be produced by Tue Madsen (DIE HAPPY, MNEMIC, THE HAUNTED etc.) and is to be available next spring.
NIGHTWISH have set May 3rd as final release date for their upcoming 4 track single "Nemo". During the production, the band enjoyed the opportunity of working together with the London Session Orchestra which also recorded the soundtracks of "The Lord Of The Rings" and "Harry Potter". NIGHTWISH's new full length album "Once" is supposed to show up on June 7th across Europe.
German power metallers FREEDOM CALL have announced that a completely new live album "Live Invasion" will be available next month. Double CD taken during the band's show along with BLIND GUARDIAN last year will be released through SPV Gmbh and licensed for CIS states by Soyuz Music. The first of two CD's will contain live performance itself, while the second will carry EP 'Taragon', previously available only in France and Japan.
SAMAEL have signed with Regain Records. The band is currently writing new material for the next studio album. Besides that the band has finally returned on stage, and the USA tour with STRAPPING YOUNG LAD last year makes it a clear evidence. Now SAMAEL are going to participate Rotonde Festival on May 22.
ST.LUCIFER, this is the name of Peter K.’s new band started after ABIGOR had split up. Having recruited Silenius himself (ex-ABIGOR, SUMMONING) behind a mic stand, the band is instantly working on a debut promo scheduled to be released this May. Musically ST.LUCIFER is promised to be very hard and intent black-death metal with offensive, blasphemous lyrics.
Russian label CD-Maximum have recently published following titles:
DIONYSUS – ‘Anima Mundi’ (Heavy Power) COUNCIL OF THE FALLEN – ‘Deciphering The Soul’ (Death) HANDFUL OF HATE – ‘ViceCrown’ (Black Death) VERTIGO – ‘Vertigo’ (AOR / Hard Rock) DIO – ‘Killing The Dragon’ (Heavy Metal) HEADLINE – ‘Duality’ ( Prog / Heavy) STYGMA IV – ‘Hell Within’ (Heavy Power) JOHNNY LIMA – ‘Made In California’ (AOR / Hard Rock)
CREMATORY, one of the most honoured bands on gothic metal stage, have finally been back from the dead with a completely new ‘Revolution’ album. The full-length, as it follows from the official statement, will contain 12 songs and a video on a title track as well. Release date is 03.05.2004.
DEVILS WHOREHOUSE, death-rock investigators with such infamous persons currently in line-up as B. War and Morgan of MARDUK, have recently issued a new longplay ‘Revelation Unorthodox’ for No Fashion Records. The band has the greatest inspirations evolving from the old platters by MISFITS and SAMHAIN, and this is what their own music like.
The upcoming album by Swedish death/thrashers IMPIOUS will be called "Hellucinations". The recordings will kick off in Studio Mega on the 30th of April. Release date is set to 4th of October and Thomas Ewerhard (covers for HYPOCRISY, CATAMENIA) has been hired for the artwork. Furthermore, the band will tour Europe in October as support for label mates AMON AMARTH.
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 3 May 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.
ATROCITY’s new LP is sheduled to be released April 26. Having “Atlantis” as a title, the album is promised contain a lot of intent and dynamic material and an impressive multimedia section as well. Both a regular jewel box and a digibook edition are expected. For more details, see the Album-of-the-Month section at Napalm Records official website www.napalm-records.com.
Dutch progressive metal band TEXTURES has decided to part ways with vocalist Pieter Verpaalen. Due to musical differences both parties decided it would be best to continue without each other. A new vocalist has been found already; Eric Kalsbeek (formerly of BRAINSHAKE) has joined TEXTURES and has performed with them from March 6th. By the way, the band’s video for the song 'Ostensibly impregnable' entered Dutch charts at number one, beating the other classic bands such as METALLICA , SLIPKNOT etc.
THE GREAT DECEIVER have just released their second full album for Peaceville - "Terra Incognito". Recording have taken place in Dug Out Studios with Daniel Bergstrand (STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, MESHUGGAH) as producer. There is also a promo video for the track Lake Of Sulphur directed by Patric Ullaeus which will be an enhanced feature on the album.
In the nearest future DARK FUNERAL fans will be granted a full-length live album, the first such coming from the band for over than ten years of black metal worship. Song material for the platter, vaguely titled «De Profundis Clamavi Ad Te Domine», has been taken during the band’s South America tour in September 2003. Track list is expected to be as following: Intro - The Arrival Of Satan’s Empire - An Apprentice Of Satan - The Dawn No More Rises - Thy Legions Come - Hail Murder - Goddess Of Sodomy - The Secrets Of The Black Arts - Vobiscum Satanas - Shadows Over Transylvania - Open The Gates - Ineffable Kings Of Darkness - Thus I Have Spoken - My Dark Desires - Armageddon Finally Comes.
OUPIRIC Productions (Russia) have made a new issue - MISANTHROPIC ART cassette "Possessed by Bestiality". 50 min of fast and fierce misanthropic Black Metal - the slaughter of humanity has begun! Tape comes with obligatory black/white cover.
US metal pioneers STEEL PROPHET have signed with Massacre Records! The new album with their new singer Nadir D'Priest will be called "Beware" and will be in stores on June 28th!
The new album by German black/death metal band MYSTIC CIRCLE "Open the gates of hell" has been recorded and will be in stores on September 22nd. The satanic trio has recorded a real smasher in the Cream Studios, Frankfurt with producer Gerhard Magin.
England's Anglo Saxon Epic Metallers FOREFATHER recently finished the recordings for their upcoming and meanwhile 4th album titled «Our Is The Kingdom». Forefather-member Wulftstan comments on the new album: " With "Ours is the Kingdom" we've taken Anglo-Saxon Metal to new heights of intensity and power. This time round we consciously focused on shorter, faster songs whilst still retaining the epic elements we're known for. The result is the most varied and compelling album we've produced to date and the best representation of the unique FOREFATHER style. It's been a long time in the making but we think most will agree that it's definitely been worth the wait!" «Ours Is The Kingdom» is scheduled to be released on May 31st, through Karmageddon Media.
DRAGONLAND have signed a worldwide multialbum deal with CENTURY MEDIA RECORDS!!! The next album is almost ready for studio recording, which most likely will take place in Studio Fredman before summer. Might as well reveal some new songtitles: To The End of The World - The Returning - Calling My Name - The Dreamseeker - In Perfect Harmony - Starfall - As Madness Took Me
KUWALDA’s new album, named “Spasi i Sohrani”(“Save & Keep Safe”), is to hit the stores early in April. The album is promised to be heavier and more varied than its predecessor, and lyrically concerned with emergency events. That follows directly from the songtitles: 9-11 – Elektricheskaya Smert’ (Death From Electricity) – D.T.P. (Car Crash) – Alkogol’nyi Demon (Alcohol Demon) etc. Among the ones who have participated in recording there is a children choir, and the Lorelyai song is based on a poem by Geighne. KUWALDA’s debut, “Delicatessen”, will be re-issued simultaneously. It will contain 19 previously published songs and will also include videos on Betonomeshalka (Concrete Mixer) and Pesnya Pro Svarnogo as special multimedia tracks for PC.
With the forthcoming release of the mini album "The Dark Secret”, the Italian epic metal band RHAPSODY provides a taste of their long play album that is due in September of this year. It is the debut of a new style of Heavy Metal music created by RHAPSODY known as Film Score Metal.
Black metal legends, THORNS' mastermind, Snorre Ruch has been keeping busy with a variety of extra musical activities involving interesting exponents of the art world since the band's long awaited and much acclaimed self-titled debut in 2002. In the past few months alone, Snorre has created THORNS LTD, a separate outlet from THORNS, dedicated to making experimental music tailored specifically for art exhibitions. Contemporary Norwegian artist, Bjarne Melgaard's exhibition at the Palais De Tokyo museum in Paris earlier this year was Thorns Ltd's debut. A new composition will premier at New York artist, Banks Violet's show in London in September this year. THORNS’ new album will not be out before next year
STRATOVARIUS’ future is under a question! There should be reminded that an unknown person armed with a knife has commited a thugging against Timo Tolkki, the main man of honoured Finnish metallers. That has taken place just after STRATOVARIUS’ show at fest in Granada (Spain) in late February and from that accident Timo’s got his arm and head stabbingly wounded. After a week since that criminal deed Timo Tolkki have published a press release where he says that right by now he’s much worried about his wife’s and daughter’s lives and hence, freezes up any STRATOVARIUS’ activity. In fact, he adds that the band is going to be back to life little after but with a shared line-up only... As we know, since the departure of Timo Kotipelto (the group’s former singer) late last year, weather inside the band has been about to thunder crack...
Regrettably PARADISE LOST have come to the decision to part company with drummer Lee Morris (who’s been around since 1995). The band state personal and musical differences as their reason for taking this action. No replacement has been named as yet, although the new album will continue to be recorded as previously planned.
BLOODHEAD RECORDS are due to issue following titles: VINTERRIKET "Landschaften Ewiger Einsamkeit" and ANGEL’S DECAY "Odiumspace". Both albums will be available in MC format and will hit the stores, respectively, in May and early summer. The autumn release of DATURA’s new CD is expected as well.
DARKTHRONE are getting themselves ready to enter the studio and start on their new album, 'Sardonic Wrath'. "I'm currently under a lot of stress with all my DJing jobs, including Inferno next week," blurts out Fenriz during a quick telephone conversation. "But that's our 12th album, you know. It's another breakfast. We are not changing anything drastically music-wise but we are changing the studio this time. We are changing the studio like people change underwear." 'Sardonic Wrath' is out in September. Through Moonfog, as ever...
Dani & Co are currently working on their Roadrunner debut authentically named “Nymphetamine”. The album is set to release during this summer and right by now infamous musicians occupy Parkgate studios (Battle, England) along with Rob Caggiano (ANTHRAX’s guitarist) in the producer’s seat. About 15-16 absolutely new songs are expected to be shot during record session. Some part of them will make the forthcoming longplay, and the other, as Dave Pybus (bass) says, “will all be released in some shape or form over the next year”.
VINTERRIKET are due to issue their completely new masterpiece next month. The album title is «Landschaften ewiger Einsamkeit». About an hour of grim and starky music is expected...
BESEECH - The half animated video for the titletrack "DRAMA" have been delayed because of techical reasons but will probably be finished in May! Meanwhile, download a fullength liveversion of the song "Bitch" from the new album, recorded at the release party at Sjunde Himlen the 27th February. You can download it from the webpage at http://www.beseech.net in the download/video section.
NEUROSIS has just returned from Chicago where they completed the latest record with Steve Albini behind the controls. On January 2nd they played a show: BLOOD & TIME, STEVE VON TILL, and TRIBES OF NEUROT, followed by a listening event where the band played the newly-minted Neurosis album in its entirety. The yet-untitled album will be released in early summer 2004 on Relapse Europe and on Neurot Recordings worldwide. There will be an advance track on the upcoming Neurot Recordings compilation, which will be released with a bonus DVD.
Read what latest news KIND DIAMOND drumpounder Mr. Matt Thompson has to tell us! "I just finished my tracks for Single Bullet Theory's new cd (who btw supported King Diamond on the last USA tour) on Crash records, no release date set yet. It sounds like it will be extremely heavy and I had a great time doing it, they let me play whatever I wanted! During the same session I recorded "Spiritcrusher" for an upcoming Chuck Schuldiner tribute, with James Murphy at the helm. It was a great challenge negotiating Richard Christy's parts, and it is a huge honor to be included in this project." Meanwhile, another King's companion, Hank Shermann (MERCYFUL FATE, VIRUS 7), along with his new formation FORCE OF EVIL (on the picrture, actually, consisting of KING DIAMOND formers) has issued a debut self-titled album in mid-February through Escapi records. Moreover, the DVD is expected on April 13th (April 20th in the USA), which is promised to contain a live show dated back to November 2003 and extra material such as songs from their first concert in Cleveland last year, studio footage, interviews, promo video, image gallery, biography and more. Writing and recording of a new MERCYFUL FATE platter is about to begin... in several years....
At the moment BETHLEHEM is working at the 6th Studio Album called "Kavrassje Vrae". The album will contain 10 new songs and is a mixture of all BETHLEHEM albums. The instruments still are recorded, vocals will follow soon by new vocalist Kemna and Bartsch himself. Album release will be sometime in the end of 2004. Bartsch & Kehren (DEINONYCHUS) started working on a strange perverted electronic project which combines sick & bizarre moods with violent electronic beats, heavy guitars, bass and brutal vocals. Albums are planned for the future.
BORKNAGAR have completed work on their sixth epic genuinely dubbed... "Epic". General line, as it follows from an official statement, apparently continues the perfect one that's been started on "Empiricism" few years ago. The album will be finally out only in June under fair patronage from Century Media. Meanwhile, the band's line-up has crushed once again with a sudden departure of guitar maestro Jens F. Ryland (who's been around since 1997) and bassman Tyr (formerly on stage with EMPEROR). Who will replace them on upcoming tour, has not been stated yet.
Finnish "pagan battle metal" act TURISAS have parted ways with bassist Mikko Tormikoski. TURISAS are currently finishing up work on their debut album, entitled "Battle Metal", at Steel Track Studio in Finland and will be heading back to Sound Suite Studio in Marseille, France to mix the album with producer Terje Refsnes (TRISTANIA, DESTROYER 666, MORGUL). A summer release through Century Media Records is expected.
Young Finnish metallers present us finest power metal with their album "Transition". In CIS and Baltian states it is released through CD-Maximum.
Tracklisting:
01. Skeleton Dance 02. Prince Of Heavy Metal 03. A 1000 Lifetimes 04. Withered Heart 05. The Fugitive 06. Ocean Girl 07. Homewardbound 08. Inside Four Walls 09. Transitional Stage 10. Into the Vortex 11. Touch Of A Prey
Power metal group АРДА from Russia was formed in 2000 by Pavel Okunev - ex-singer of famous Russian band EPIDEMIA, for which Pavel has recorded two albums. In autumn 2003 label CD-Maximum signed a deal with ARDA to release their debut album "O Skitaniyah Vechnykh I O Zemle". Line-up: Pavel Okunev (vocal), Dmitry Protsko (guitar), Igor Peskarev (guitar), Yaroslav Pastukhov (bass), Vlad Alekseenko (drums).
"O Skitaniyah Vechnykh I O Zemle" tracklist:
01. Vozvrashcheniye Gosudarya 02. Pervaya zima 03. V Pustote 04. Melkor 05. Radi Zvezd 06. Net Nikogo 07. O Skitaniyah... 08. Krylataya T'ma 09. Novaya Mechta 10. Fly Away (bonus track)
Bay Area thrashers DEATH ANGEL have announced the final tracklist of their upcoming album "The Art Of Dying":
01. Thrown to the Wolves 02. 5 Steps of Freedom 03. Thicker than Blood 04. The Devil Incarnate 05. Famine 06. Prophecy 07. No 08. Spirit 09. Land of Blood 10. Never Me 11. Word to the Wise
The record will be released on April 26th through Nuclear Blast.
Norway's kings of Black Metal DIMMU BORGIR have won the Norwegian Grammy award "Spellemannsprisen" for their current album "Death Cult Armageddon". The band outrivaled ENSLAVED and OLD MAN'S CHILD that were nominated in the "Metal" category as well. Congratulations!
Finland's symphonic metallers NIGHTWISH have announced the complete tracklist of their upcoming album "Once" (due in June):
01. Dark Chest Of Wonders 02. Wish I Had An Angel 03. Nemo 04. Planet Hell 05. Creek Mary's Blood 06. The Siren 07. Dead Gardens 08. Romanticide 09. Ghost Love Score 10. Kuolema Tekee Taiteilijan 11. Higher Than Hope
Three other new tracks – White Night Fantasy, Live To Tell The Tale and Where Were You Last Night (ANKIE BAGGER cover) – will be released as single B sides.
Finnland's melodic metallers SONATA ARCTICA have started recording their new album. The yet untitled follow-up to "Winterheart's Guild" shall be released later this year.
PAGAN REIGN have finished the recording and mixing of their new, third full-length album "Udely Byloy Very". Recording took place at Moscow, Russia studio "DAY Records". Jfficial release date is 15th March.
Tracklisting of new album:
01. Pervyye Strely Na Pole Bitvy 02. Radegast 03. Pravednyy Boy 04. Udely Byloy Very 05. Gnev Slavynskih Bogov 06. V Obyatiyah Zimy 07. Metel' 08. Bylina O Svyatoslave 09. Razgulyalos' Krasno Solnyshko 10. Slavyaanskoe Bratstvo
Last release of great Italian band is out for CIS and Baltian states through CD-Maximum. In this music combined dark metal, atmospheric, black, gothic. Firstly album was recorded in 1996, but group's mainman Lord Vampyr disliked the record. Now it's totally re-played and re-arranged.
Tracklist:
01. Vampyrisme... 02. Twilight 03. Beyond The Forest 04. In The Wood 05. Ancient Damned 06. Woods Of Walacchia, Part I 07. The Dark Domain 08. Walpurga's Night 09. The Snow Turns Red 10. The Impaler
Bonus
11. Kingdom Of Vampires 12. The Enchanted Forest 13. Lucretia 14. Lacrima Christi
Russian company CD-Maximum have licenced the debut album of Brazilian group VENIN NOIR, "Rainy Days Of October", which originally was released through Hellion Records in 2002. Band plays doom/gothic with some classic music elements in vein of NIGHTWISH, THE GATHERING, AFTER FOREVER, WITHIN TEMPTATION.
Tracklist:
01. Rainy Day Of October 02. Naughty Elegy 03. Damsel Of Grief 04. Desperanter 05. Reap The Grand 06. Buried Alive 07. A Deeper Gray 08. Vile Pledge
Moral Insanity Prods. from Brest, Belarus licensed the albums of legendary Austrian grindcore maniasc IMPETIGO, "Ultimo Mondo Cannibale" and "Horror Of The Zombies" on CD specially for CIS and Baltian states! These albums are the classic of gore grind style. All interested in distributing of our releases in different regions of CIS-states, contact please: ' .
Fans of legendary Russian band KRUGER were waiting for a long time the re-release of classic group's album "Rozhdennyy Mrakom" ("Born By Darkness"). Till this moment it could find this album only on vinyl in collections of metal music fans. "Rozhdennyy Mrakom" - second KRUGER album, which made the band the pioners of Russian death metal. Thanks to CD-Maximum album is avalaible for everyone.
Russian company CD-Maximum signed a license deal with British Blackend Records. In nearest future will be released some albums from labal's back-catalogue, among which: ADRAMELECH - "Psychostasia" AMORTIS - "Gift Of Tongues" AMSVARTNER - "Dreams" и "Trollish Mirror" DEVILYN - "Artefact" DISGORGE - "Forensick" ECLIPSE - "The Act Of Degradation" ECLIPSE - "Dorsacharms Venomous" EOSTENEM - "I Scream Your Suffer They Die" ENTHRONED - "Armoured Bestial Hell" ENTHRONED - "Apocalypse Manifesto" GOLGOTHA - "Melancholy Elemental" HECATE ENTHRONED - "Dark Requiems An Unsilent Mass" HECATE ENTHRONED - "Slaughter Of Innocence" HECATE ENTHRONED - "Kings Of Chaos" IMEMORIAL - "Temple Of Retribution" MISFORTUNE - "Forsaken" Endless Knot" PROPHANITY - "Stronger Than Steel" REIGN OF EREBUS - "Humanracist" REIGN OF EREBUS - "Of Blackest magic" REIGN OF EREBUS - "Inversion Principle" SKYMNING - "Machina Genova" SKYMNING - "Stormchoir" SKYMNING - "Artificial Supernova" THY PRIMORDIAL - "The Crowning Carnage" THY PRIMORDIAL - "Pestilence Upon Mankind" WAYLANDER - "The Light, The Dark And The
HOSTILE BREED have presented the tenatively tracklisting and ' of "The Second Cut" album. Moscow-based, Russia art-studio "Traum" worked on the cover and inlay. For creation of cover picture were used photos of real 3-D models, false eye, which band's participants stole from the morgue and gave the designers. April, 2004 release trough Irond Records is expected.
Tracklist:
01. Intro 02. Die Inside 03. Resonance 04. Visions 05. Promethean 06. Wound Of Soul 07. Show Me The Road (feat. Steev Esquivel) 08. Civilization Of Hatred 09. Color Of Freedom 10. Pseudo Life 11. Like A Bullet
AYREON, the brainchild of Dutch guitarist Arjen Lucassen (ex-BODINE, VENGEANCE), have revealed the cast of characters included in the storyline on the group's forthcoming CD, "Ayreon: The Human Equation", and the singers performing them. They are as follows: James LaBrie (DREAM THEATER): "Me" Marcela Bovio (ELFONIA): His "Wife" Arjen Lucassen: His "Best Friend" Mike Baker (SHADOW GALLERY): His "Father" Mikael Akerfeldt (OPETH): "Fear" Eric Clayton (SAVIOUR MACHINE): "Reason" Irene Jansen (KARMA): "Passion" Magnus Ekwall (THE QUILL): "Pride" Heather Findlay (MOSTLY AUTUMN): "Love" Devon Graves (DEAD SOUL TRIBE): "Agony" Devin Townsend (STRAPPING YOUNG LAD): "Rage"
"Ayreon: The Human Equation" is tentatively due in May through Inside Out Records.
Norway's EINHERJER have officially called it a day. The following is the group's statement on the matter:
"After 11 years, 4 albums and 2 mini-albums, we've decided to split up EINHERJER. We feel that we've made the album we wanted with "Blot" and therefore a journey of 11 years has come to an end. We would like to thank everybody who has supported us through the years. For us, it is time to move on. We are definitively not retiring as musicians, so you haven't heard the last from us yet…" "Regards, Frode, Aksel & Gerhard".
MANTAS featuring Jeff Mantas - VENOM founder and guitarist and Tony 'Demolition' Dolan former ATOMKRAFT mainman and VENOM Bass/Vocalist have been, together with the rest of the MANTAS Band deep in rehearsals for their forthcoming appearences. The new album "Zero Tolerance" will now be released on April 26th through Demolition records.
The track list is as follows:
01. Zero Tolerance 02. Rage 03. Drill 04. Kill It 05. Look Who Died 06. Stone Cold 07. Original Sin 08. Rise 09. Insanity 10. Bring It On
The band are appearing in the USA at the New Jersey and Minnesota Metalfest's in March. They also play a series of shows in California, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Oakland. They will shoot the video single for Rage on the 6th and 7th of March. June will see the band on tour in Europe and back to the USA in July for the Milwaukee Metalfest. To end current speculation, Mantas himself is not recording any new VENOM material! Nor does he intend to at least with his last lineup! Abaddon is also not involved in the project as far as we have been told. There will be special Venom additions to the MANTAS live appearences so be there!
An MP3 clip of the brand-new NECARE track ' been posted online. "Ruin" comes off the Virginia-based doom/death metallers' debut CD of the same name, due out in the next couple of months through Finland's Firebox Records.
CRADLE OF FILTH bassist Dave Pybus has posted the following message on the band's official web site: "Hell-O Friends! As you may well have already heard CRADLE OF FILTH recently signed a worldwide recording deal with the mighty Roadrunner Records and we are now in the final stages of pre-production for our first full-length album with them, due out this summer, 2004. Currently titled 'Nymphetamine' (meaning: beast-like addiction to beautiful, classical women), it once again sees us pushing our own mentally deranged musical vision to the next ear-crushing level. The line-up consists of the same 5 core members of the 'Damnation and a Day' session (Dani, Paul Allender, Martin Powell, Adrian Erlandsson and myself) and the addition of James McKillboy as our second guitarist. As I write, we are demoing something like 15-16 tracks, albeit not all of which will appear on the finished album but will all be released in some shape or form over the next year."
The title track to SOULFLY's upcoming fourth full-length album, ' , has been made available for download in MP3 format. As previously reported, "Prophecy" is scheduled for release on March 30 through Roadrunner Records. The album was produced by mainman Max Cavalera at The Saltmine Studio Oasis in Mesa, Arizona and was mixed by Terry Date (DEFTONES, PANTERA) at Studio X in Seattle, Washington.
PECCATUM, the Norwegian band featuring former EMPEROR frontman Ihsahn and his wife Ihriel, will release their new album, "Lost In Reverie", through Mnemosyne Records during the coming weeks. The follow-up to 2001's "Amor Fati" was recorded and mixed at Symphonique studio and was produced and engineered by Ihriel and Ihsahn. Mastering duties were handled at Strype Audio by Tom Kvalsvoll.
"Lost In Reverie" track listing:
01. Desolate Ever After (' ) 02. In The Bodiless Heart (' ) 03. Parasite My Heart (' ) 04. Veils Of Blue (' ) 05. Black Star (' ) 06. Stillness (' ) 07. The Banks Of This River Is Night (' )
Ukrainian doom/death metal band sent off the guitarist. New guitarist is now Oleg Baranov (SUBCONSCIOS VOID). Now group is fully in rehearsing with the new line-up. Next week musicians begin to record the demo tracks Dark Prophet and Law, which will apper on new album. In other news NOCTURNAL DOMINIUM will visit on the 19th of March Gomel, Belarus, March, 21st will play in native Cherhigov, Ukraine and then go to Moldova.
Dutch black metallers SAURON have set "For A Dead Race" as the title of their second full-length album, tentatively due in late 2004 through Neurotic Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Universe Of Filth" will be recorded at Double Noise Studio in April and will be "more mature, more diverse and most of all more angry" than its predecessor, according to the group. "Expect eight devastating black metal tracks with a variety of tempo changes." Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "For A Dead Race", "Prey For Destruction", "Scars Of Existence", "Dominions Of The Past" and "The Pestilantial March".
Swedish metallers WOLF have posted two MP3 samples from their third full-length album, "Evil Star", at their official web site: "Evil Star" (' ), "Black Wing Rider" (' ). "Evil Star" will be released in Scandinavia on February 25 through MNW/No Fashion Records. A U.S. release through Prosthetic Records is expected at a later date. The follow-up to 2002's "Black Wings" was produced by Peter Tagtgren (HYPOCRISY, PAIN) at Abyss studios in Sweden and features artwork by Thomas Holm.
Sweden's LAKE OF TEARS will enter the studio on Friday, February 13 to begin recording the follow-up to 2002's "The Neonai", entitled "Black Brick Road". "The album cover will be done by the brilliant artist Kristian Wahlin, who [has] painted all of the previous LAKE OF TEARS covers except 'Forever Autumn'," according to a post on the band's web site. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "The Greymen", "Black Brick Road", "Making Evenings", "Crazyman" and "A Trip With The Moon".
Swedish band, handled by Magnus Karlsson present their 3rd album. Fans of power metal won't be disappointed. The album was originally released last year through Frontiers Records, and now it's out for CIS states, thanks to CD-Maximum.
Tracklist:
01. Healer 02. The Chosen One 03. Sacrifice 04. The Uncrowned 05. Otherworld 06. April Sky 07. Sound Of Rain 08. Only The Innocent 09. Full Moon 10. Call Of The Tribe
Group from Murmansk, Russia have released their third album, "Argotique" through CD-Maximum. "Argotique" was recorded together with musicians from DEMIURG (ex-SIVER) - Alexx W. Crow [vocal], Wladislaw [sampling/programming, guitar] и Archturo [guitar]. Bonus track - dark-wave remix on cult song of MY DYING BRIDE - Sear Me ("Turn Loose the Swans" album, '93).
Track listing:
01. Intro 02. Get Loved 03. State of Gothique [I Feel] 04. The Saint 05. Take Me High 06. Fatalia 07. Don't Promise Me 08. Cleansed by Curse [dedicated to K-141 "Kursk"] 09. Sear Me [Argotique re-make]
DRAGONLAND, the Gothenburg, Sweden-based melodic metal sextet, have signed a multi-album worldwide deal with Century Media Records. "We are really happy to have found a new home with Century Media Records," stated DRAGONLAND lead guitarist/founder Nicklas Magnusson. Formed in 1999, DRAGONLAND have released two albums via the Greek label Black Lotus Records ("The Battle Of The Ivory Plains" and "Holy War") and have toured Japan (May 2003). Most of the musicians are known for their involvement with bands like PROPHANITY (Nicklas Magnusson) or NIGHTSHADE (bassist Christer Pedersen). In addition to playing with IRONWARE, keyboardist Elias Holmlid toured with KING DIAMOND and recorded keyboards for FALCONER's second album. DRAGONLAND are currently working on the material for their third album, tentatively due in the fall. "Needless to say, it will be our best material ever," stated Nicklas.
Norwegian cult extreme metal band ANCIENT have set "Night Visit" as the title of their sixth album, due on June 1 through Metal Blade Records. The follow-up to 2001's "Proxima Centauri" was recorded at Mirage and Alpha-Omega studios and is currently being mixed at Studio Fredman in Gothenburg, Sweden with producer Fredrik Nordstrom (HAMMERFALL, IN FLAMES, DIMMU BORGIR, SPIRITUAL BEGGARS, etc.). A video for the title track will be shot later this month in London, England. The album, which will also be released as a limited-edition "special pack," will reportedly contain 10 new tracks — three written by Jesus Christ and the remaining seven by Aphazel, Dhilorz and Grom.
Among the songtitles set to appear on the CD are the following:
01. Envision The Beast 02. Fuel The Flames 03. Raping The Children Of Abel 04. Night Visit
JUDAS PRIEST have announced the details of their four-disc box set, "Metalogy", due on May 4 through Sony Music/Legacy Records. The 65-song collection comprises hits, favorites, B-sides and rarities recorded by the veteran heavy metal act between 1972 and 2002, according to Billboard.com. The box will include a full-color book with the band's discography and a biographical essay will also feature a timeline and previously unpublished photos. Initial pressings of "Metalogy" will also include a bonus DVD of a Dec. 12, 1982, concert in Memphis during the band's "Screaming for Vengeance" tour. Previously released on VHS as "Judas Priest Live", the long-out-of-print concert film is reissued here in 5.1 surround sound.
"Metalogy" track listing:
CD 1:
01. Never Satisfied (4:52) 02. Deceiver (2:44) 03. Tyrant (4:39) 04. Victim Of Changes (Live) (7:11) 05. Diamonds & Rust (Live)** (3:28) 06. Starbreaker (Live)** (7:19) 07. Sinner (6:40) 08. Let Us Prey (6:12) 09. Dissident Aggressor (3:02) 10. Exciter (5:33) 11. Beyond The Realms Of Death (6:51) 12. Better By You Better Than Me (5:19) 13. Invader (4:10) 14. Stained Class (5:12) 15. The Green Manalishi (With The Two Pronged Crown) (Live)* (4:42)
CD 2:
01. Killing Machine (3:02) 02. Evening Star (4:06) 03. Take On The World (3:03) 04. Delivering The Goods (4:16) 05. Evil Fantasies (4:13) 06. Hell Bent For Leather (2:40) 07. Breaking The Law (Live)** (2:45) 08. Living After Midnight (3:30) 09. Rapid Fire (4:00) 10. Metal Gods (4:04) 11. Grinder (Live)* (4:21) 12. The Rage (4:44) 13. Heading Out To The Highway (3:45) 14. Hot Rockin' (Live)** (3:28) 15. Trouble Shooter (3:47) 16. Solar Angels (4:03) 17. Desert Plains (4:36) 18. Hellion (Live)** / Electric Eye (Live)** (4:17) 19. Screaming For Vengeance (4:43)
CD 3:
01. Riding On The Wind (3:07) 02. Bloodstone (3:52) 03. You've Got Another Thing Comin' (5:09) 04. Devil's Child (4:48) 05. Freewheel Burning (4:42) 06. Jawbreaker (3:25) 07. The Sentinel (5:24) 08. Love Bites (Live)* (5:37) 09. Eat Me Alive (3:31) 10. Some Heads Are Gonna Roll (4:05) 11. Rock Hard Ride Free (5:00) 12. Night Comes Down (4:00) 13. Turbo Lover (5:32) 14. Private Property (4:29) 15. Parental Guidance (3:35) 16. Out In The Cold (6:27) 17. Heart Of A Lion (demo)* (3:53)
CD 4:
01. Ram It Down (4:48) 02. Heavy Metal (5:58) 03. Come & Get It (4:05) 04. Blood Red Skies (7:05) 05. Painkiller (6:06) 06. Between The Hammer & The Anvil (4:48) 07. Touch Of Evil (5:54) 08. Metal Meltdown (4:47) 09. Nightcrawler (5:44) 10. All Guns Blazing (3:57) 11. Jugulator (5:50) 12. Bloodstains (5:26) 13. Machine Man (5:15) 14. Feed On Me (5:28)
*Previously Unreleased **First Time On CD
Bonus DVD:
01. Hellion/Electric Eye 02. Riding on the Wind 03. Heading Out to the Highway 04. Metal Gods 05. Bloodstone 06. Breaking the Law 07. The Sinner 08. Desert Plains 09. The Ripper 10. Diamonds and Rust 11. Devil's Child 12. Screaming for Vengeance 13. You've Got Another Thing Comin' 14. Victim of Changes 15. Living After Midnight 16. The Green Manalishi (With the Two Pronged Crown) 17. Hell Bent for Leather
THE HAUNTED have won a Swedish "Grammy" award in the "Best Hard Rock" category for their 2003 release "One Kill Wonder". The highly acclaimed thrashers, who were recently rejoined by original vocalist Peter Dolving, beat out the likes of OPETH, MUSTASCH, EVERGREY and BACKYARD BABIES to win the award, which was presented to the group at the official "Grammisgala" ceremony, held at Berns Salonger in Stockholm Monday night (Feb. 9). The following is a list of the Swedish "Grammy" winners in the "Best Hard Rock" category for the previous 11 years:
2002: OPETH – "Deliverance" 2001: BACKYARD BABIES - "Making Enemies Is Good" 2000: THE HAUNTED - "The Haunted Made Me Do It" 1999: LOK - "Naken, Blastrad Och Skitsur" 1998: BACKYARD BABIES - "Total 13" 1997: MISERY LOVES CO. - "Not Like Them" 1996: HELLACOPTERS - "Supershitty To The Max" 1995: FIRESIDE - "Do Not Tailgate" 1994: MARY BEATS JANE - "Mary Beats Jane" 1993: CLAWFINGER - "Deaf Dumb Blind" 1992: SATOR – "Headquake"
To see a complete list of the winners at this year's Swedish "Grammy" awards, ' .
IN FLAMES vocalist Anders Friden and guitarist Bjorn Gelotte will be conducting an autograph session at the Nuclear Blast record store in Donzdorf, Germany, on Tuesday, February 17. The session will start at 6:00 p.m. IN FLAMES' new album, "Soundtrack To Your Escape", is due in North America on April 6 through Nuclear Blast Records. The CD will arrive in Europe one week earlier (March 29).
A brand new DISMEMBER track, titled "Where Ironcrosses Grow", has been posted online in the < MEDIA > section of the new Karmageddon Media website ' "Where Ironcrosses Grow" is the title track of DISMEMBER's long-awaited new album, to be released on the 8th of March through Karmageddon Media. 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).
Complete tracklist:
01. Where Ironcrosses Grow 02. Forged With Hate 03. Me-God 04. Tragedy Of The Faithful 05. Chasing The Seprent 06. Where Angels Fear To Tread 07. Sword Of Light 08. As The Coins Upon Your Eyes 09. Children Of The Cross 10. As I Pill The Trigger
FLOTSAM AND JETSAM are scheduled to release their long-awaited live DVD in late April/early May through the Cleopatra label. The as-yet-untitled disc is expected to include footage of the band performing at the Bash On Ash in Tempe, Arizona last July. In other news, the METALLICA tribute DVD — featuring FLOTSAM's rendition of "Damage Inc." — "should be scheduled for release very soon," according to FLOTSAM drummer Craig Nielsen. "A couple of different bigger labels are looking at picking it up."
Portuguese avantgarde metallers THANATOSCHIZO have set "Turbulence" as the title of their forthcoming third album, tentatively due this summer through Rage Of Achilles Records (Portugal will receive the album this spring through Misdeed Records). The follow-up to 2002's "InsomniousNightLift" was recorded at Porto's Rec N' Roll Studios with producer Luis Barros (drummer for AFM Records recording artists TARANTULA) and will be mastered at Germany's Area 51 studios by the legendary producer Tommy Newton (HELLOWEEN, CONCEPTION, VICTORY, ELEGY, ARK, TEN).
Italian "pagan metal" act ELVENKING have posted the cover art (painted by Duncan Storr) for their new album, "Wyrd", at ' . "Wyrd" was mixed in December at the House Of Music facility in Stuttgart, Germany with producer Achim Kohler (PRIMAL FEAR, BRAINSTORM) and is tentatively due on March 15 through AFM Records.
The follow-up to 2001's "Heathenreel" will contain the following cuts:
01. A Poem for the Firmament 02. Another Haven 03. Disappearing Sands 04. A Fiery Stride 05. Jigsaw Puzzle 06. The Losers' Ball 07. Moonchariot 08. Midnight Circus 09. Pathfinders 10. The Perpetual Knot 11. The Silk Dilemma 12. Waves of Infinite Skies
AVAILABLE NOW! The debut album of Russian unholy sympho death metal band ACT OF GOD - “…For Demon”. Code: OUP-11 MC Release date: 5 February 2004 Edition: Limited 1000 Style: Symphonic Death Metal with female back vocals, as if NIGHTWISH play death metal Retail / Wholesale prices (incl. Postage): 5 USD / 2 USD Total time: 29’06” Cover: Pro-printed glossy with blasphemous lyrics and band photos Label: OUPIRIC Productions Label contact: Michael Nickolayev, PO Box 340, Kaluga-02, 248002 RUSSIA E-mail: '
Steev Esquivel (SKINLAB) and sound engineer Chris Hanson (MACHIENE HEAD, TECHNOCRACY, VIO-LENCE), finished the recordings of vocal parties for the song with working title "Show Me The Road", which you will hear on the second album of Moscow-based group HOSTILE BREED -"The Second Cut". The material was sent to Denmark for final mix. Jacob Hansen don't only mix the stuff, but also will do some guitar parties and will do the programming of the album. There will be also guest back vocalist for Color Of Freedom song - singer of Danish band SACRIFICIAL. Art studio Traum from Moscow continues to work on the cover artwork and layout. Russian edition will feature additional surprises.
Virginia-based doom/death metallers NECARE have inked a deal with Finland's Firebox Records. The group's debut CD, "Ruin", is scheduled for release in the next couple of months. According to an official press release, "Ruin" "touches on themes of spiritual apostasy and the abandonment of faith in the face of mortality.
Brazilian melodic metallers ANGRA have posted a bunch of new photos taken during the recording sessions for the follow-up to 2001's "Rebirth", tentatively due this summer through SPV Records. Check them out ' . As previously reported, the initial recording sessions for the CD are taking place at Mosh Studios in Sao Paulo, Brazil under the guidance of producer Dennis Ward (SILENT FORCE, PINK CREAM 69).
LAMB OF GOD will be filming a video for the track "As the Palaces Burn" February 5-7 in Los Angeles, California. Directing the clip will be Dan Rush, who has previously worked with the group on the "Ruin" video. A late February air date is expected. "As the Palaces Burn" is the title cut off the group's sophomore CD, which was released last May through Prosthetic Records. The band have since inked a major-label deal with Epic Records.
Greece's ROTTING CHRIST will enter the studio in May to record their new album, tentatively due in September through Century Media Records. A world tour will coincide with the release of the new CD. In other news, ROTTING CHRIST have parted ways with keyboardist George and will perform some of their upcoming tour dates as a four-piece. George's departure was amicable and re-emphasizes the band's desire to reconnect with their early '90s philosophy and sound, according to a statement on the group's web site.
BLAZE, the British band led by former IRON MAIDEN/WOLFSBANE singer Blaze Bayley, have finalized the track listing for their new album, "Blood and Belief", tentatively due in March through SPV Records. "Blood and Belief" track listing:
01. Alive 02. Ten Seconds 03. Blood and Belief 04. Life and Death 05. Tearing Yourself To Pieces 06. Hollow Head 07. Will To Win 08. Regret 09. The Path and The Way 10. Soundtrack Of My Life
For tour with WACO JESUS/ISACAARUM Morbid Records needs some help:
MON 15.3.2004 > FRA > ??? wanted to book it in Paris or this area THU 18.3.2004 > HOL or B or D > ??? FRI 19.3.2004 > HOL or D > ??? TUE 23.3.2004 > D > ??? THU 1.4.2004 > SLOVENIA ??? SUN 4.4.2004 > D > ??? somewhere in Germany on the way from Swiss to Berlin
If you can do something or give contacts of clubs and promotores then please write to: ' .
John Frolen, guitarist for the Sundsvall, Sweden-based death metallers IN BATTLE, has taken over the bass duties in the band. Session guitarist for the group going forward will be Daniel Dlimi (AEON, SOULDRAINER, STUM). As previously reported, IN BATTLE will issue their new album, "Welcome To The Battlefield", on August 4 through Cold/Metal Blade Records. The CD will be mixed at Mana studio in Florida with producer Erik Rutan (HATE ETERNAL/ex-MORBID ANGEL) and will contain 10 songs (plus one bonus track on the Japanese release).
Dutch extreme death/thrashers KATAFALK have posted a live video of the songs "Birthmark 666" and "Blind Envy" (recorded at Belgium's Frontfest) in MP4 format ' (file size: 52.5, Quicktime 6.5 required).
Finland's IMPERANON have finished recording their debut album at Sonic Pump Studios with engineer Nino Laurenne and producer Titus Hjelm and are currently mixing the effort at Finnvox studios with Mikko Karmila. "Everything went quite nicely despite our very limited studio time," the band write on their web site. "We had fun working with Nino & Titus. Mastering will take place 21st of January in Finnvox studios and then we'll be able to listen to the completely finished album for the first time!" In other news, IMPERANON guitarist Aleksi Sihvonen has "started his military service in Santahamina (in Finland we have conscription so every male has to serve for at least 6 months). Unfortunately his hair is gone, as you can see from the ' . He'll be back in July, when [drummer] Jaakko [Nylund] starts his service." IMPERANON's as-yet-untitled CD is tentatively due in May/June through Nuclear Blast Records.
Swedish death metallers PAGANIZER have re-signed with Xtreem Music for the release of their new album, tentatively due in June. "Eight new songs has been written and arranged for the upcoming fifth PAGANIZER album," the band write on their web site. "We'll be entering Soundlab Studio again in late March to record the stuff and we're hoping to bring you the best PAGANIZER material to date. The new stuff is faster and heavier than any previous material but still totally in the same vein as always: brutal Swedish death metal. Songtitles are as follows:
01. No Divine Rapture 02. Way Of The Rotting 03. Brutally Torn Sanity 04. Nailed Forever 05. On Your Knees 06. Devour Digest Defecate 07. Abscess In Black 08. The Plague That Hunts
A brand new CANNIBAL CORPSE track, titled "Cyanide Assassin", has been posted online in MP3 format ' . "Cyanide Assassin" comes off CANNIBAL CORPSE's forthcoming CD, "The Wretched Spawn", due on February 24 through Metal Blade Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Gore Obsessed", "The Wretched Spawn" was recorded at Sonic Ranch studios in Tornillo, Texas with producer Neil Kernon (NEVERMORE, JUDAS PRIEST).
Finland's STRATOVARIUS have announced the addition of a new singer and drummer to the group's ranks. New vocalist for STRATOVARIUS is called 'Miss K' (' ). She spent the last four years fronting a "melodic hard rock" band called AURORA K, with whom she performed a number of gigs in addition to recording a two-song single, titled "11th Hour". Drummer for the next album will be Anders Johansson, the brother of keyboardist Jens Johansson. The band will enter the studio, a secret place, in May to record 11th studio album, which has a working title 'PopKiller'. The album is due February 2005 followed up by massive World Tour.
Dutch black metallers SAURON will enter Double Noise Studio in April to begin recording their second full-length album, tentatively due in late 2004 through Neurotic Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Universe Of Filth", which saw light of day through Dark Horizon Records, will be "more mature, more diverse and most of all more angry" than its predecessor, according to the group.
Danish metallers WITHERING SURFACE have completed work on their fourth album, "Force The Pace", with producer Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, MNEMIC, RAUNCHY) at Antfarm Studio in Aarhus, Denmark. A late spring release through an as-yet-undetermined label is expected. "Force The Pace" track listing (in no particular order):
01. Gears 02. Inhale The Hyperpulse 03. State Of Emergency 04. This View 05. Urban Glasses 06. Hold The Line 07. Exit Sculpture 08. Anything Goes 09. Machinery 10. Force The Pace
Swedish death metallers VOMITORY have completed work on their fifth album, "Primal Massacre", due on April 19 through Metal Blade Records. "Primal Massacre" final track listing:
01. Primal Massacre 02. Gore Apocalypse 03. Stray Bullet Kill 04. Epidemic (Created To Kill) 05. Demons Divine 06. Autopsy Extravaganza 07. Retaliation 08. Condemned By Pride 09. Cursed Revelations 10. Chainsaw Surgery
Arlington Heights, Illinois-based death metallers ENFORSAKEN have pushed back the U.S. release date of their sophomore album, "The Forever Endeavor", to March 23 through Century Media/Olympic Records. The album will be available internationally one day earlier. "The Forever Endeavor" was mastered at the end of last year by James Murphy (DISINCARNATE, DEATH, TESTAMENT, OBITUARY), who also contributed a guitar solo to the song "All For Nothing". All cover and layout art was completed by DARK TRANQUILLITY guitarist Niklas Sundin for Cabin Fever Media.
Finnish goth-metallers ENTWINE have set "DiEversity" as the title of their new album, due in Finland on March 1 through Spinefarm Records (Century Media in the rest of Europe and the U.S.). The follow-up to 2002's "Time Of Despair" was recorded at Astia Studios in Lappeenranta, Finland with producer Anssi Kippo (CHILDREN OF BODOM, SINERGY, NORTHER) and was mixed at Finnvox studios in Helsinki with Mikko Karmila (NIGHTWISH, STRATOVARIUS).
Former IMMORTAL/current GRIMFIST drummer Horgh has officially joined HYPOCRISY. Horgh replaces longtime HYPOCRISY skinsman Lars Szoke, who reportedly left the band because of his unwillingness to tour for long periods of time. "Lars still wants to play drums," HYPOCRISY mainman Peter Tagtgren explained, "but not with the hectic schedule HYPOCRISY has had the last months, and still is going to have for most of 2004. "I can't wait to go on tour with this new lineup!" Peter stated about the group's latest addition. "I think it will be so cool to have Horgh's blast beats in our songs!"
NEW BLACK, the new Los Angeles-based band led by former MACHINE HEAD/SOULFLY guitarist Logan Mader, have a total of 13 tracks under their belt, according to a posting on Logan's official web site.
Track titles include:
01. Save Me 02. Something to Be Desired 03. Slip Away 04. Feed the Fire 05. See Thru 06. Broken Wings 07. Not Like You 08. Wounded 09. After All 10. These Times 11. Frustration 12. Deva 13. No Sympathy
Italian metallers CONSPIRACY A.D. have posted their recently completed video for the track "Bloody Revenge" at ' (.zip file, approx. 10 MB). "Bloody Revenge" comes off the group's forthcoming debut full-length album, "Humanity = Destruction ...The End Is Near", tentatively due in early February through Crash Music Inc.
MISERY INDEX, the Baltimore, Maryland-based band featuring Jason Netherton (bass/vocals, ex-DYING FETUS), Sparky Voyles (guitar, ex-DYING FETUS, M.O.D.), Matt Byers (drums) and Bruce Greig (guitar, ex-DYING FETUS, NEXT STEP UP), will be filming a video for the track "The Great Depression" on January 31 at the Ottobar in Baltimore, according to a posting on the group's web site. "The Great Depression" (' ) comes off the band's debut album, "Retaliate", which was released in August through Nuclear Blast Records.
CONSTRUCDEAD will release their sophomore album, "Violadead", on March 22 through Sound Pollution Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Repent" was recorded and mixed at Helsingborg's Queenstreet Recording with producer Richard Larsson and features a guest appearance by SOILWORK vocalist Bjorn "Speed" Strid and ex-SOILWORK drummer Henry Ranta in the track "Bitter End". The track listing for "Violadead" (view cover ' ) is as follows:
01. Pinhook 02. Rise 03. Bricks 04. Hate 05. Wounded 06. Cancer 07. The Saviour 08. Disbelief 09. New Skin 10. Re-Arrange 11. Turn 12. Bitter End 13. Evil As I (demo version, Japanese bonus track)
A limited-edition digipack version of the album will feature as a special bonus a demo recording of the track "Inhuman Condition".
DIONYSUS, the Swedish/German melodic power metal act featuring the voice behind guitarist Luca Turilli's (RHAPSODY) solo work, Olaf Hayer, and ex-SINERGY drummer Ronny Milianowicz, have revealed the details of their sophomore album, "Anima Mundi" (Latin for "The Soul of the World"), due on January 19 through AFM Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Sign Of Truth" was recorded at Studio Kuling in Orebro, Sweden with producer Jens Moberg (KATATONIA, LAMBRETTA, CRYSTAL BLUE) and was mastered at Polar Studios in Stockholm. The complete track listing for "Anima Mundi" is as follows:
01. Divine 02. Bringer of War 03. Anima Mundi 04. Heart Is Crying 05. What 06. Eyes of The World 07. March For Freedom 08. Closer To The Sun 09. Forever More 10. Paradise Land
New album of German brutal maniacs GOMORRHA called "Sexual Perversity By Autopsy" is finally out on ' . You will hear brutal death metal in vein of SEVERE TORTURE, DYING FETUS. Guttural vocals, sick lyrics,crushing drums... most brutal music from Germany. You can download some tracks ' .
NEW AEON MEDIA - that's the name of a new sub-division for KARMAGEDDON MEDIA, to support the Underground and bring you (hopefully) the best of the Underground. The first bands label came to an agreement with, FINAL DAWN from Finland (mix of ROTTING CHRIST, SENTENCED and older MEGADETH), RIBSPREADER (unbelievable Old School Swedish Death Metal, produced by Dan Swano who is in the band too) and JUDGEMENT DAY from The Netherlands (brutal, twisted innovative Death Metal).
Bands feel free to send material to:
NEW AEON MEDIA P.O. BOX 277 6300 AG Valkenburg The Netherlands
Your recordings will be listened to, and if you stick out of the masses label will surely get in touch.
Danish death metallers EXMORTEM will record the follow-up to 2002's "Pestilence Empire" in May/June at the Antfarm Studio (Aarhus, Denmark) with producer Tue Madsen. No title has been set for the album yet, but a few "working" songtitles are as follows: "Nihilistic Contentment", "Graveside Mourning Ritual" and "Parasite Paradise". According to the band, "The material will be both harder and more twisted than on previous recordings and will show new sides of the EXMORTEM sound! Shattering musical extremity!!"
Former HYPNOSIA drummer Mikael Sjostrand passed away on Thursday, January 8 after a battle with skin cancer. He was 27 years old. A highly acclaimed Swedish thrash/death metal act, HYPNOSIA split up in June 2002 after a seven-year existence that produced a seven-song EP (1999's "Violent Intensity", Iron Fist Productions) and one full-length album (2000's "Extreme Hatred", Hammerheart Records). No reason was given for the band's break-up.
The cover of DAMAGEPLAN's debut album, "New Found Power", has been ' . "New Found Power", due on February 10 through Elektra Records, was recorded at guitarist Dimebag Darrell's (ex-PANTERA) home studio, Chasin Jason, and was produced by Darrell and drummer Vinnie Paul (also ex-PANTERA) along with Sterling Winfield (PANTERA, MERCYFUL FATE). Guests include SLIPKNOT's Corey Taylor and OZZY OSBOURNE/BLACK LABEL SOCIETY guitarist Zakk Wylde.
The complete track listing for the CD is as follows:
01. Wake Up 02. NFP (New Found Power) 03. Pride 04. Blunt Force Trauma 05. Save Me 06. Explode 07. Fuck You (feat. Corey Taylor) 08. Cold Blooded 09. Reborn (feat. Zakk Wylde) 10. Blink of An Eye 11. Breathing New Life 12. Crawl 13. Moment Of Truth 14. Soulbleed (feat. Zakk Wylde)
PARADISE LOST are hoping to enter the studio in April to begin recording the follow-up to "Symbol Of Life", tentatively due in August. "Symbol Of Life", PARADISE LOST's ninth studio album, was produced by Rhys Fulber (FEAR FACTORY, FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY) and was released in October 2002 through G.U.N./ BMG Records in Europe.
Former STRATOVARIUS singer Timo Kotipelto has completed work on his second solo album, tentatively due in the spring through Century Media Records. The as-yet-untitled follow-up to 2002's "Waiting For The Dawn" (issued under the KOTIPELTO banner) reportedly features "more or less the same" recording lineup as that on the debut, which featured contributions from Mike Romeo (guitars, SYMPHONY X), Roland Grapow (guitars, MASTERPLAN/ex-HELLOWEEN), Arjen Lucassen (guitars, AYREON), Sami Virtanen (guitars, JOE DOAKES), Jari Kainulainen (bass, STRATOVARIUS), Mirka Rantanen (drums, TUNNEL VISION), Gas (drums, H.I.M.), Janne Warman (keyboards, CHILDREN OF BODOM) and Mikko Harkin (keyboards, SONATA ARCTICA). Commenting recently on his departure from STRATOVARIUS, Kotipelto said, "I know a lot of fans are sad about this situation. And I really am SORRY about it. There are a lot of things in the world that I alone can't control... One thing is for sure, it's not about money. The problems are somewhere else." Regarding his final appearance with STRATOVARIUS at the upcoming Piorno Rock festival in Spain on February 28, Kotipelto said, "Unfortunately, yes, I have to [play this show]. I have signed the contract [committing to doing the gig]. But I try to give my best to the fans. I don't care what happens at the backstage..."
German doom/gothic metallers LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE have set "Ave End" as the title of their sixth album, tentatively due in the summer through Austria's Napalm Records. The recordings for the follow-up to 2002's "Fall, I Will Follow" will begin in February. Among the tracks set to appear on the CD are "Sarah Lou", "Phantom Ballad" and "To Bleed Or Not To Be".
Dutch brutal death metal band THE MONOLITH DEATHCULT have just returned from their successful second European tour with THE CROWN. The band are currently working on new material for their second CD, "The Bloody Fields Of History", tentatively due later in the year through Cold Blood Industries. Among the songtitles set to appear on the follow-up to 2002's "The Apotheosis" are the following:
01. Army of the Despised 02. Kolyma 03. Under the Bloodcampaign 04. 7 Months of Suffering 05. Concrete Sacrophagus 06. King of Aceldama 07. 1917 Spring Offensive 08. The Nero Order
After 15 years in the business as one of the reigning heavyweight champs of death metal, Florida's legendary DEICIDE have shot their very first music video. For this historic occasion, the band chose to immortalize the title track of their forthcoming Earache Records debut, "Scars Of The Crucifix" — a song which brutally sums up what DEICIDE is all about. Shot in Nottingham, U.K. by acclaimed director Pete Bridgewater (THE HAUNTED, DECEMBER), the "Scars Of The Crucifix" video shows DEICIDE in rare form. The "Scars Of The Crucifix" video is now in the post-production stages. Look for this video, coming soon to Earache.com and a TV near you. "Scars Of The Crucifix" was recorded at Morrisound Studios in Tampa, Florida with producer Neil Kernon (CANNIBAL CORPSE, NEVERMORE) and was mixed at Sonic Ranch studios in Tornillo, Texas. A February 24, 2004 release through Earache Records is expected.
Long-running British death metal band BOLT THROWER are currently writing new material for their eighth studio album, tentatively due in October/November through Metal Blade Records. The as-yet-untitled follow-up to 2001's "Honour Valour Pride" will be recorded in May and will be supported by a full European tour as well as the group's first U.S. tour in 10 years.
Sweden's SOILWORK have posted the following message on their official web site: "Hello there soilers! "As you might have heard already, Richard Evensand is no longer playing with SOILWORK. "Richard is an amazing drummer and we are very happy that we have had the privilege to play with him for the period of time that we did. "Richard and SOILWORK have decided not to continue playing together and we have parted as good friends. We wish him all the best of luck with his future projects. "We are happy to inform you guys that Dirk Verbeuren from SCARVE will be filling in as a session drummer for our upcoming headlining tour in Europe. "Dirk is a very talented drummer, and needless to say he will do a kickass job on the tour. "Check out Dirk's band SCARVE on ' . "Cheers, SOILWORK"
Belgium's AFTER ALL have posted their video for the track ' online size (12.7 MB). The clip was produced by Michel Marechal and AFTER ALL and was directed and edited by Michel Marechal. "Descending Pain" comes off the group's latest CD, "Mercury Rising" (Mausoleum Records), which was produced by Harris Johns, renowned for his work with VOIVOD and KREATOR. Recorded at Johns' Spiderhouse Studios in Berlin, Germany, the CD features "a much heavier and more thrash metal-oriented" sound than that on the group's previous effort, 2000's "Dead Loss" (Rokarola Records).
Polish black/death metallers BEHEMOTH have set "Demigod" as the working title of their seventh full-length album, tentatively due in late 2004 through Regain Records (Europe), Century Media (USA and South America) and Mystic (Poland). The follow-up to 2002's "Zos Kia Cultus - Here And Beyond" (Avantgarde) will be recorded this spring and will feature the lineup of Nergal (guitars and vocals), Inferno (drums), and Seth (bass, guitars).
Sweden's KATATONIA have set a February 23 release date for their two-disc compilation of all of their previously out-of-print mini-CDs, plus sampler tracks from old full-length albums and one unreleased track. Titled "Brave Yester Days", the double CD will feature artwork by Agni Kaster and will be released in a digipack format together with a 16-page booklet. The complete track listing for "Brave Yester Days" is as follows:
Volume One (disc 1):
"Jhva Elohim Meth" 01. Midwinter Gates (Prologue) 02. Without God 03. Palace Of Frost 04. The Northern Silence 05. Crimson Tears (Epilogue)
"Dance Of December Souls" 06. Gateways Of Bereavement 07. Velvet Thorns (Of Drynwhyl)
"War Compilation Vol One" 08. Black Erotica 09. Love Of The Swan
"For Funerals To Come…" 10. Funeral Wedding 11. Shades Of Emerald Fields 12. For Funerals To Come 13. Epistel
Volume Two (Disc 2):
"Brave Murder Day" 01. Murder 02. Rainroom
"Sounds Of Decay" 03. Nowhere 04. At Last 05. Inside The Fall 06. Untrue (Previously Unreleased)
"Saw You Drown" 07. Nerve 08. Saw You Drown 09. Quiet World 10. Scarlet Heavens
As usual this one comes pro-printed on glossy paper (A5, 24 pages) with full OUPIRIC Prods mail order catalogue inside and features Interviews/infos of CAPITOLLIUM (gothic sympho black metal from Carpathia), SAMHAIN (true and evil black metal terrorism from Russia), ACT OF GOD (Russian satanic sympho death metal) and CRYPTHOWL (pics from the first live show of this sympho horror black metal band). Print-run - 2000 copies Language - Russian Distribution - 60% - Russia, 30% - Ukraine & Belarus, 10% - World You can order Metal V Massy, sending post marks on 20 RUR (Russia) or 1 USD with postal transfer (CIS) to address: NIKOLAEV MIHAIL, P.O. box 340, Kaluga-02, 248002 Russia
MIND ECLIPSE are searching for permanent vocalist with growling and screaming. Concert experience and experience of working in the band are not necessary. All interested contact to - ' . also the band began to record new album "Utopia: Formula Of God". December, 20-21 drums were succesefully recirded in Navaho Hut studio with producer Arkadiy Navaho. Guitars recordings are sheduled to January, 7-10. The working title of new album is "Utopia: Formula Of God". Tracklist:
Formula Of God Of God, Satan & Other Artifacts Of Human Ignorance Murder Is A Privilege Of Supreme Beings Mirror Image Gospel In Blood Titanium Cromlech Leaders & Followers
Veteran German thrashers TANKARD have set a March 22 release date through AFM Records for their new album, "Beast of Bourbon". The follow-up to 2002's "B-Day" was recorded at Stage One studio in Buhne, Germany with producer Andy Classen and is slated to include such cuts as "Fistful Of Love", "Under Friendly Fire", "Genetic Overkill" and "Die With A Beer In Your Hand". The cover artwork was conceived by Sebastian Kruger, who has previously worked for the magazine Spiegel.
Danish thrash/death metallers URKRAFT will enter Antfarm Studios in Arhus, Denmark on Friday (January 9) to begin recording their debut album, "Eternal Cosmic Slaughter", with producer Tue Madsen (MNEMIC, RAUNCHY, 2TON PREDATOR). A March 8 release through Germany's Cartel Media is expected. The tentative track listing for the album is as follows:
01. Blessed Be The Human Beast 02. Paint The City Black 03. ' 04. Unleash The Will 05. ' 06. At The Border of The Known World 07. ' 08. Through Your Senses 09. '
PANZER X, the solo project of VADER vocalist/guitarist Peter, have announced the details of their upcoming promotional CD. The disc, entitled "Steel Fist", "will contain more stuff than was previously announced and it's going to be more like a debut MCD of the band than simply a promo tape," according to a post on VADER's web site. The complete track listing for "Steel Fist" is as follows:
01. Feel My X 02. Panzer Attack 03. Steel Fist 04. Together 4 Ever 05. Riding On The Wind (JUDAS PRIEST cover) 06. Paint In Black (ROLLING STONES cover)
Vitek from DECAPITATED recorded all the drums for the CD, which will feature artwork from Wojtek Blasiak (MOONSPELL). The second part of the CD recordings is scheduled to take place in the middle of January at Studio X in Olsztyn, Poland. "Steel First" is being engineered by Szymon Czech and is being produced by Peter himself.
Estonian band BESTIA guitarist Anres Kullaste, who is also known to his website ' , had some spare time meanwhile, so now he started to create something like estonian metal bands guide, where is basic information about bands (members, discography etc.). Estonian groups can contact ' .
The 2003 installment of the Finnish Metal Music Awards (Sirkkelirock 2003) was held this past Saturday (January 3) at Tavastia Club in Helsinki. Voting was open to all the metal fans in Finland and was presented through the various media outlets that were working with the event's organizers.
The winners are as follows:
Finnish Band of the Year: CHILDREN OF BODOM Finnish Newcomer of the Year: MACHINE MEN Finnish Album of the Year: KOTITEOLLISUUS – "Helvetista Itaan" International Band: IRON MAIDEN International Newcomer: EVANESCENCE International Album: IRON MAIDEN – "Dance of Death" Producer of the Year: Mikko Karmila Metal Video of 2003: KOTITEOLLISUUS – "Mina Olen" Metal Event of 2003: Tuska Metal Festival
In addition, Sirkkelirock presented a special Lifetime Achievement Award to CANNIBAL CORPSE for acknowledged work in metal music.
Swedish "dark death metal" act RUNEMAGICK have completed work on their new album, "On Funeral Wings", at their own Magick Sound Studio for a spring release through Aftermath Music. As previously reported, RUNEMAGICK's new material is said to be "much in the vein of the latest album 'Darkness Death Doom', with some new ideas and dimensions." The complete track listing for "On Funeral Wings" is as follows:
01. Monolithic Death 02. Rise of the 2nd Moon 03. On Funeral Wings 04. Dragon of Doom 05. Hyperion 06. Ocean Demon 07. Emperor of the Underworld 08. Trifid Nebula 09. The Doomsday Scythe 10. Riders of Endtime 11. In a Darkened Tomb 12. Black Star Abyss 13. Wizard with the Magick Runes
Dutch thrashers OCCULT have inked a deal with Karmageddon Media for the release of their fifth studio album, "Elegy For The Weak", due in early March. A U.S. release through Candlelight Records is expected a short time after the European release. The follow-up to 2001's "Rage To Revenge" was produced by Andy Classen at Stage One studios in Buhne, Germany and contains the following track listing:
01. Disturbing The Dead 02. Nuclear Torment 03. Nocturnal Predator 04. Feel The Blade 05. Expire 06. Warbeast 07. Obsessed By The Grave 08. Slaughtering The Pigs 09. Reapers Call 10. Slut Of Sodom
Norwegian power metallers MEMORIZED DREAMS will release their debut album, "Theater Of Life", in late February through Sound Riot Records. The CD was recorded at Skansen Lydstudio in Trondheim, Norway with producer Stein Bratland and features a guest appearance on the title track by singer Olaf Hayer (DIONYSUS, LUCA TURILLI, LORD BYRON). Mastering duties will be handled in the next few days by Tommy Newton at Area 51 Studios in Germany. Download MP3 clips of two pre-production/demo tracks: ' , ' .
Polish death metallers VADER have commenced work on the material for their sixth full-length album, tentatively titled "Spiritual Disease", for a May/June release through Metal Blade Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Revelations" will be recorded in February 2004 at PR Studio in Gdansk with producer Piotr Lukaszewski and will mark the group's final release for Metal Blade under the terms of their present contract with the label.
Louisiana's "sickest" death metal band SUTURE have posted two new songs for download on their site. One of the songs, ' comes off the group's split CD with LEUKORRHEA and LEHAVOTH, while the other, ' , is culled from the re-release of their debut CD, "Carnivorous Urge To Kill".
Norway's THEATRE OF TRAGEDY have posted several photos taken during a recent rehearsal session with an as-yet-unidentified female singer who may — or may not — end up becoming the official replacement for departed vocalist Liv Kristine. Check them out ' .
A brand new KATAKLYSM track, titled ' , has been posted online in MP3 format. "The Ambassador of Pain" comes off the group's forthcoming album, "Serenity In Fire", due on March 8, 2004 through Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Shadows and Dust" was recorded at Studio Victor in Montreal and was produced by KATAKLYSM guitarist Jean-Francois Dagenais (MISERY INDEX, MALEVOLENT CREATION). Mixing duties were handled at Wildsound studio in St-Zenon, Quebec. The complete track listing:
01. The Ambassador of Pain 02. As I Slither 03. The Resurrected 04. 10 Seconds from the End 05. The Tragedy I Preach 06. For All Our Sins (feat. HYPOCRISY's Peter Tagtgren) 07. The Night They Returned 08. Blood on the Swans 09. Serenity in Fire 10. Under the Bleeding Sun
SIRENIA, the Norwegian band featuring former TRISTANIA guitarist/vocalist Morten Veland, have posted a brand new track, titled ' in MP3 format. "Voices Within" comes off the group's sophomore album, "An Elixir for Existence" (view cover ' ), due on February 23, 2004 through Austria's Napalm Records. The follow-up to 2002's "At Sixes and Sevens" reportedly contains 54 minutes of brand new music and features artwork by Joachim Luetke (Image Eye-Luetke Prod.).
Italian "pagan metal" act ELVENKING have set a tentative March 15, 2004 release date through AFM Records for their new album, "Wyrd". The CD, which was mixed earlier this month at the House Of Music facility in Stuttgart, Germany with producer Achim Kohler (PRIMAL FEAR, BRAINSTORM), will be mastered during the coming days at an as-yet-undetermined mastering facility. Tracklist:
01. A Poem for the Firmament 02. Another Haven 03. Disappearing Sands 04. A Fiery Stride 05. Jigsaw Puzzle 06. The Losers' Ball 07. Moonchariot 08. Midnight Circus 09. Pathfinders 10. The Perpetual Knot 11. The Silk Dilemma 12. Waves of Infinite Skies
A video of MISERY INDEX performing the track "Manufacturing Greed" live in Ludwigsburg, Germany on December 17, 2003 has been posted online in Windows Media format. Just ' to download. Based out of Baltimore, Maryland, MISERY INDEX feature in their ranks Jason Netherton (bass/vocals, ex-DYING FETUS), Sparky Voyles (guitar, ex-DYING FETUS, M.O.D.), Matt Byers (drums) and Bruce Greig (guitar, ex-DYING FETUS, NEXT STEP UP). The group's debut album, "Retaliate", was released in August through Nuclear Blast Records.
BLAZE, the British band led by former IRON MAIDEN/WOLFSBANE singer Blaze Bayley, have set "Blood and Belief" as the title of their third studio album, tentatively due in March 2004 through SPV Records. The group, who finished recording the CD on December 20, performed the album's projected title track Saturday night (December 27) at the third annual BLAZE Big Bash at Dudley JB's in England. The mixing process for "Blood and Belief" is set to commence in early January.
Several soundclips from METALIUM's forthcoming album, "As One - Chapter Four", have been posted online at the group's official web site. The follow-up to last year's "Hero-Nation Chapter III" is due in Europe on February 23, 2004 through Armageddon Products/Soulfood and in the U.S. on March 9, 2004 through Century Media Records. The complete track listing for "As One - Chapter Four" is as follows:
' ' ' ' ' ' 07. Illuminated 08. Meaning Of Light (Reprise) 09. Athena 10. Power Strikes The Earth 11. Goddess Of Love an Pain 12. As One + hidden track
Finland's FINNTROLL will be releasing an EP, titled "Trollhammaren", in March containing one song off their forthcoming album plus four bonus tracks recorded in the same session. As previously reported, the upcoming full-length CD, "Nattfodd" (Swedish for "Nightborn"), will be issued in April. The follow-up to "Visor Om Slutet" was recorded at Sundicoop Studio in Savonlinna, Finland and features 10 songs. The band will also be making their debut video to coincide with the release of the full-length CD. ' a rough-mix version of the album track "Ursvamp" in MP3 format.
Belgium's AFTER ALL will have their latest CD, "Mercury Rising", released in Russia, the Commonwealth of Independent States (former USSR) and the Baltic States through CD Maximum Records. The track listing will be the same as the on the European version, but some artwork details will be different. More information is available here. "Mercury Rising" (Mausoleum Records) was produced by Harris Johns, who is renowned for his work with VOIVOD and KREATOR. Recorded at Johns' Spiderhouse Studios in Berlin, Germany, the CD features "a much heavier and more thrash metal-oriented" sound than that on the group's previous effort, 2000's "Dead Loss" (Rokarola Records).
Finnish "gothic metallers" LOST IN TEARS will enter Karillo studio on January 17, 2004 to begin recording their sophomore full-length album, tentatively due in late spring through Locomotive Music. The follow-up to 2002's "Dialogue With Mirror and God" will be engineered by Jukka Puurula and mixed at an as-yet-undisclosed studio in Spain. Among the working songtitles set to appear on the CD are the following: 01. Metamorphosis 02. On The Way 03. Shooting Star 04. Betrayed 05. Cold Comfort 06. Assurance 07. Nothing More, Nothing Less 08. Break Me Down 09. Felicity 10. Pale Shadow 11. Summer Rain 12. Rose
The MetalList Portal would like to congratulate KATATONIA guitarist Fredrik Norrman and girlfriend Hilma on the birth of their first child, a daughter, Saturday morning (December 27). As previously reported, KATATONIA are currently editing their first DVD, due sometime next year. A Polish Cracow gig from April 2003 will be the main attraction of the disc, but there will also be more exclusive bonus footage to go along with it. In addition, one or two of the unreleased tracks from the "Viva Emptiness" sessions will also show up on the DVD.
Arlington Heights, Illinois-based death metallers ENFORSAKEN have announced the addition of bassist Adam Simon to the group's ranks. ENFORSAKEN's sophomore album, "The Forever Endeavor", is due on March 9, 2004 through Century Media/Olympic Records. The mastering of the CD was recently completed by James Murphy (DISINCARNATE, DEATH, TESTAMENT, OBITUARY), who also contributed a guitar solo to the song "All For Nothing". All cover and layout art was completed by DARK TRANQUILLITY guitarist Niklas Sundin for Cabin Fever Media.
PAIN mainman Peter Tagtgren (HYPOCRISY) has posted the following message on the band's official web site: "Hello everybody! "As most of you know, I've been out with my other band HYPOCRISY from Sept.-Dec. and had no time to finish up the new PAIN CD, so I will start after the New Year and change label so I can get a worldwide release. I'm so fuckin' tired of not getting it out everywhere! And I can't go on tour cause I have no back-up from the label outside of Sweden, so when the label have stopped fuckin' around and I have sign with the new record company I will be back with a new album and world tour to support it. You will be the first to know. "Hope you understand." Among the tracks tentatively set to appear on the follow-up to 2002's "Nothing Remains The Same" are the following: 01. Tear It Up 02. Don't Count Me Out 03. The Table Has Turned 04. Stay Away 05. Misery 06. The Third Wave
DEATH BY DAWN, the German death metal band featuring former PESTILENCE/ASPHYX/BOLT THROWER frontman Martin Van Drunen, have posted a recently recorded demo track, entitled ' . DEATH BY DAWN's new demo CD will be available for purchase online in approximately one week via the online shop at ' . Several recent photos of DEATH BY DAWN can be viewed by clicking ' .
Swedish melodic metallers NOCTURNAL RITES have reportedly set "New World Messiah" as the title of their follow-up to 2002's "Shadowland", tentatively due in early 2004 through Century Media Records. Working songtitles include "Against the World", "The Icon" and the projected title track. The group's bassist Nils Eriksson had previously described the new material as "pretty much like we've always done...[but] maybe just a tad better."
Pennsylvania-based death metallers INCANTATION are in the process of compiling material for their first DVD, to be released sometime next year through Brazil's Mutilation Records. The as-yet-untitled disc will include footage from the group's November 22, 2003 show in Sao Paulo, Brazil, plus vintage video footage that spans the band's 13 years of existence along with other rare footage that has yet to be determined. More information will be made available soon.
KAMELOT mastermind Thomas Youngblood has posted the following message on the band's official web site: "Hello Kamelotians!!! "We are very pleased to tell you all that the writing sessions are going even better than expected. We have now completed 8 new songs and cannot get the melodies out of our heads. A good sign for everyone) We just finished 'March of Mephisto', this should be our heaviest song ever and a live classic. Also, we finished a beautiful ballad that will mostly be piano and a small string ensemble. A first for us as well. So we are always working on new twists to the KAMELOT style we hope you all love. Our beloved producer Sascha Paeth will come to Florida after the New Year to begin preproduction and then the fun starts!" As previously reported, KAMELOT's forthcoming album will be their first for SPV Records, with whom they signed a worldwide deal last spring. An early 2004 release is expected. Other songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Nothing Ever Dies" and "Serenade".
ADEMA have parted ways with guitarist Mike Ransom. No reason was given for his departure. The group, who recently completed a U.S. tour with GODSMACK, have already played five headlining shows as a four-piece and have no plans at this time to seek a replacement second guitarist. ADEMA are planning on commencing work on the follow-up to this year's "Unstable" in early 2004 for a tentative late summer release.
The title track to DEICIDE's forthcoming album, "Scars Of The Crucifix", has been ' at the Earache Records web site. "Scars Of The Crucifix" was recorded at Morrisound Studios in Tampa, Florida with producer Neil Kernon (CANNIBAL CORPSE, NEVERMORE) and was mixed at Sonic Ranch studios in Tornillo, Texas. A February 24, 2004 release through Earache Records is expected. The complete track listing for "Scars Of The Crucifix" is as follows: 01. Scars Of The Crucifix 02. Mad At God 03. Conquered By Sodom 04. Fuck Your God 05. When Heaven Burns 06. Enchanted Nightmare 07. From Darkness 08. Go Now 09. Pentecostal
A brand new DECAPITATED track, titled ' , has been posted online. "The Fury" comes off the group's third full-length album, "The Negatron", due on March 9, 2004 through Wicked World/Earache Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Nihility" was recorded at Hertz Studio in Poland with engineers Slawek and Wojtek Wieslawski and is being described by bassist Martin as "very very strong," with a thick guitar sound. The complete track listing for the album is as follows: 01. The Fury 02. Three-Dimensional Defect 03. Sensual Sickness 04. Calling 05. The Negation 06. Long-Desired Dementia 07. The Empty Throne 08. Lying And Weak 09. Lunatic Of God's Creation (DEICIDE cover, bonus track)
WPT010 - ARA (Por) "Arcaica" - demo tape Four tracks of powerful Black Metal Limited to 300 copies
WPT011 - HUMAN DEATH (Swe) "Nekrosexual Torment" - demo tape Four tracks of violent Black Metal Limited to 300 copies
WPCDR002 - WAR & DEATH Volume I (4 way split CDr) Featuring: Bleeding Display (Por) + Cranial Incisored (Ind) + Diabolical Messiah (Chi) + Unfleshed (Por) Four bands performing Death Metal Limited to 400 copies
COMING VERY SOON! (01/01/2004)
WPT012 - OLD PAGAN (Ger) "Tecknotschtiklan" re-edited MLP in tape version Black Metal - Limited to 300 copies (licensed by Ordealis Rec.)
Due to a bad flu that guitar player Rob Cavestany caught during the DEATH ANGEL European tour, the band had to delay their plans for recording the new DEATH ANGEL album: According to guitarist Ted Aguilar the band will enter the studio on 3rd January 2004 to start working together with producer Brian Dobbs (Metallica a.o.). Former albums such as “Ultra Violence”, “Act III” and “Frolic” shall serve as an inspiration source, but DEATH ANGEL also consider to put a lot of new tunes and ideas into their new songs.
Modern metallers ANTHRAX have to delay the filming of their new clip “What Doesn’t Die” until January 2004 due to time problems. "We needed a bit more time to plan things and get the production side in place" drummer Charlie Benante explains the situation. The video will be directed by Brian Posehn and shall feature a bunch of zombies as well as other creepy stuff. So get prepared for a weird and spooky mini horror movie!
DIE APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER will work on several projects simultaneously in 2004. Besides entering the studio in summer/autumn 2004 for the fifth REITER album the band also plans to produce a video clip in late summer and considers to finish their first DVD. Further information will be revealed soon. Ride on, be strong!
The new opus of the Canadian deathsters KATAKLYSM, "Serenity In Fire", is finished and will be released on 8th March 2004. Singer Maurizio Iacono speaks about the new album as follows: “It's our most violent record since 'Temple Of Knowledge', but with the hooks of 'Shadows & Dust'”. And the hyperblasters are going to prove that soon – during the already confirmed No Mercy Festivals as well as several booked gigs all across Europe.
New album of cult American doom metal band SOLITUDE AETERNUS will be tenatively out in spring 2004 through the German label Massacre Records (same as the previous group's album "Adagio"). Soon you will be able to hear new tracks in mp3 format on www.brainticket.com (distro-firm of SOLITUDE AETERNUS guitarist Jjohn Perez).
Swedish death metallers SANCTIFICATION have parted ways with bassist Jorgen Bylander and are currently seeking a replacement. Interested parties can contact the band at: ' . Only "talented and experienced" musicians need apply. SANCTIFICATION's debut album, "Misanthropic Savation", will shortly be released through Remission Records.
Russia-based group GRENOUER signed recently a 3-albums deal with CD-Maximum on the territory of CIS and Baltia. New album "Presence With War" will be released in the second half of January 2004. At present the work on the artwork is going to the end. The idea of the cover is by Us-artist MickMo Morris, and it self is by Natalia Kasatkina. "Presence With War" was recorded and mastered in Navahohut Studios, and mastered Finnvox Studios by Mikka Jussila. Final tracklist: 01. Mercenary Fileds (5.21) 02. Sex Optica (3.08) 03. The Choice Of Flesh (6.05) 04. he Last Bullet Magic (4.36) 05. Crash Crash Crash (5.20) 06. Clonetwigs (3.44) 07. Sheitan (3.24) 08. Communist Skinhead (5.12) 09. A Farewell To Arms (1.31) In the end of december two previous albums of the band - "Odour O'Folly" and "Gravehead" - will be remastered by Anssi Kippo in the Astia studio. These two CDs will be released in February next year with new artwork and different bonus tracks. Band have already started to compose new stuff...
Finland's IMPERANON have completed all the drum and bass tracks for their debut album at Sonic Pump Studios with engineer Nino Laurenne and producer Titus Hjelm. Check out several pictures taken during the sessions: ' ' ' The group, whose members range in age from 17 to 24, will continue work on the as-yet-untitled CD in January for a tentative May/June 2004 release through Nuclear Blast Records. IMPERANON's spring 2003 demo, which landed the band their deal with Nuclear Blast, can still be downloaded for free from their official web site. The songs available for download are as follows: ' ' '
Sweden's KATATONIA are busy editing their upcoming DVD and have just finished mixing the audio part of the Polish Kracow gig from April 2003. This concert will be the main attraction of the disc, but there will also be more exclusive bonus footage to go along with it. And last but not least, one or two of the unreleased tracks from the "Viva Emptiness" sessions will also show up on the DVD.
Bulgarian sympho black group KOROZY recently began to record their new album. Producer is manager of Norwegian/Italian band ANCIENT - Alex. Special for this he will come to Bulgaria from Italy.
Yesterday (14th of December) died a guitirast of Belarus-based group GODS TOWER, Alexandr Urakov. Many people loved this band thanks to his playing and arrangements. Fans and friends will remember you forever...
Polish black/death metallers BEHEMOTH have extended their contract with Olympic Recordings. The group have already commenced the songwriting process for their highly anticipated new album and will enter the studio in early spring with hopes for a late 2004 release.
Finland's STRATOVARIUS have officially parted ways with vocalist Timo Kotipelto and drummer Jorg Michael. "Due to irrevocable and massive difficulties between the band leader Timo Tolkki and me, it has been agreed that this is the best thing to do to preserve at least some of the integrity the band used to have," Kotipelto said, according to the band's web site. "I will now fully concentrate on my solo album and I am convinced that this is the best way for me." Jorg Michael says that his priorities lie elsewhere at the moment, but that the suddenly escalating trouble in the band is one of the main reasons he doesn't want to play in STRATOVARIUS anymore. "I think this is the beginning of new era for STRATOVARIUS and that the future looks bright and promising," guitarist/leader Timo Tolkki commented. "I have composed some of my best songs during the last month. If anything good comes out of this, then I guess it will be the emotions I have managed to channel into new songs about this situation, which has been very heavy for all of us. I have been having quite bad mental problems lately, but I feel better now due to anti-depressive medication my therapist has prescribed me." According to the group's booking agent, Continental Concerts, the current line-up is "100% certain" to fulfill all its obligations regarding festival dates next year even though there is a lot of simmering hate waiting to boil over. Tolkki is currently talking to a German singer and a Finnish drummer about replacing Kotipelto and Michael, but he stresses that absolutely nothing is confirmed at this point. He adds that he is actively looking for replacements.
Chicago doomsters NOVEMBERS DOOM have set "Ascension" as the title for their forthcoming full-length CD, tentatively due in early 2004 through an as-yet-undetermined label. Among the tracks set to appear on the album are the following: 01. In the Absence of Grace 02. Swallowed by the Moon 03. Dark World Burden 04. The Dead Leaf Echo 05. The Ascension Process The first 50 people who walked through the door at the group's show this past Friday night (Dec. 5) were treated to a CD with songs from each of the bands that played, including a demo version of NOVEMBERS DOOM's "In the Absence of Grace". NOVEMBERS DOOM recently parted ways with Dark Symphonies Records and are currently weighing their label options before recording their next studio album. The band, who replaced longtime guitarist Eric Burnley with Vito Marchese, released three CDs through Dark Symphonies Records: 2000's "The Knowing", the 2001 re-release of 1995's "Amid Its Hallowed Mirth" (featuring bonus tracks), and 2002's To Welcome The Fade".
Dutch gothic/atmospheric doom metal group AFTER FOREVER have set "Invisible Circles" as the title for their new full-length album, due in late March through Transmission Records. AFTER FOREVER will be teaming up with AMARAN, DARK MOOR and NIGHTMARE for a European tour beginning in mid-January.
The writing of the long awaited sixth BAL-SAGOTH album is continuing, and the new material is said to be sounding truly phenomenal. The cover artwork by renowned fantasy artist Martin Hanford is now complete, as are the interior booklet illustrations by both official artists Martin Hanford and Samuel Santos. Recording is expected to begin during the depths of winter, with a release during the spring of 2004. BAL-SAGOTH keyboardist Jonny Maudling has recently been working as part of a team of composers creating music for a new MMORPG (Massive Multi-Player Online Role Playing Game) called Adellion. Visit the official Adellion site for more info on this epic fantasy game: '
The comeback album "Revolution" of CREMATORY, originally to be released on 1st March 2004, is delayed for an indefinite time, for CREMATORY had to stop their recordings. In the middle of working on the comeback album “Revolution”, Katrin gave birth to her and Markus’ daughter Janina, two weeks before the actual due date. Because of this early birth, CREMATORY had to stop the recording sessions until further notice. But as more than half of the album is already finished, CREMATORY decided to release a single in advance on the originally scheduled album release date – a little consolation for the fans. The high-qualified single will contain the single- and album-version of “Greed”, a cover version of METALLICA’s “One” and a ballad named “Farewell Letter” as well as the video clip of “Greed” which was wrapped only a few days before Janina was born. Not only a consolation but also value for money from CREMATORY for their fans! Of course, CREMATORY will continue to work on “Revolution” which will definitely be in store during 2004!
The re-issue of their early albums "Ill-Natured & Innoscent" (on one CD) is out NOW through Nuclear Blast in Europe. Check it out in case you would like to find out about Dew-Scented's roots! The band will very soon kick off touring Europe up till X-Mas with Nile & MISERY INDEX first and then joining the X-Mass festivals with Deicide, Destruction, Nile, MISERY INDEX, Amon Amarth and Graveworm!
Norway’s Black Metal Band No. 1, DIMMU BORGIR, outdid hundreds of competitors and got chosen to administer two songs to the trailer of the upcoming movie “Hellboy”, a comic adaptation comparable to other films like "Blade" and "The Crow". Check out this ' for more information about the gloomy action flick and click ' to see the cool trailer.
Sweden's IN FLAMES have set "Soundtrack To Your Escape" as the title for their forthcoming album, due in Europe on March 29, 2004. The follow-up to 2002's "Reroute To Remain" was recorded at a rented house/converted studio in Denmark with producers Daniel Bergstrand (Meshuggah, Strapping Young Lad, Darkane etc.) and Orjan Ornkloo (ex-Misery Loves Co.) and was mixed at Galaxy Studios in Mol, Belgium (Rammstein, Manowar, Iron Maiden etc.). The mastering took place at Cutting Room in Stockholm, Sweden. The new tracks are a natural development of the old tracks, again very modern but still with all classical IN FLAMES roots. Once again a step further, that shows that IN FLAMES are always faster than any other act. Expect a modern Masterpiece, a “Soundtrack To Your Escape”. The following is the tentative track listing for "Soundtrack To Your Escape" (in no particular order): 01. F(r)iend 02. The Quiet Place 03. Borders And Shading 04. Discover Me Like Emptiness 05. Touch Of Red 06. Bottled 07. Dead Alone 08. Superhero Of The Computer Rage 09. Like You Better Dead 10. Dial 595-Escape 11. Evil In A Closet 12. In Search For I 13. My Sweet Shadow
VADER have posted a live performance video of the track "Cold Demons", recorded at the Polish Woodstock festival in early August. Check it out ' . VADER performed in front of an estimated 400,000 people at the event, which was recorded for broadcast via Polish TV.
Holland's THE GATHERING have parted ways with bassist Hugo Prinsen Geerligs and have replaced him with Marjolein Kooijman. Check out photos of the new lineup: ' '
Italy's LACUNA COIL have just finished filming a new promotional video for their single "Heaven's A Lie" with ' . award-winning director Patric Ullaeus (DIMMU BORGIR, TIAMAT, MNEMIC, PASSENGER).
LEAVES' EYES, the new band formed by ex-THEATRE OF TRAGEDY singer Liv Kristine Espenaes Krull and members of ATROCITY (who are fronted by Liv's husband Alexander Krull), have set "Lovelorn" as the title for their debut album, tentatively due on May 24, 2004 through Austria's Napalm Records. Download a clip of the demo track ' .
IRON MAIDEN's video for their forthcoming single, "Rainmaker", has been posted at the group's official web site. The clip, which was shot at London's Roundhouse studios in Camden in September, was directed by Howard Greenhalgh, who also directed the video for the group's previous single, "Wildest Dreams".
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As previously reported, the "Rainmaker" single will be released in Europe on Monday, November 24.
A day after he failed to return to prison as scheduled following a short leave, Varg Vikernes was captured by the Norwegian police on a highway outside the country's capital. Vikernes was taken into custody at 12:45 a.m. Monday morning (October 27) after police in Oslo received information from police in Romerike that the fugitive was traveling in a car on the E6 road to Oslo. "We signaled for Vikernes to stop, but when he didn't, we were forced to box his car in between two police vehicles. There was a was dent [to the car]," Officer Vider Hjulstad told NTB. Varg Vikernes was alone and unarmed at the time of his arrest. See photos of his capture below: ' '
OSKOREI Music proudly presents strong awaiting release of 2003 - legendary masterpiece of Iceland's SOLFSTAFIR - "Til Valhallar" album Authentic melodies, hypnotic rythmes and extraordinary screaming will remember, that Black Metal still exists in pure way. First time this album was released 1996 through Check label VIEW BEYOND in 1000 copies and included 4 tracks of original and interesting blackmetal. "These talented Icelandians play in vein of BURZUM and early IN THE WOODS and do it unrepeatable.". Label is glad to present you the re-release of this stuff, CD includes 6 tracks, which were recorded in 1995 (2 of them never released before) specially for this edition bband mainman Addi Tryggvason had written comments to each song. Release date: 13.11.2003 Tracklist:
1. Asarheidin. 2. Til Valhallar. 3. Daudarikid. 4. Huldulandid. 5. I Helli Polyfamosar. 6. Hovudlausn.
SCARVE set release date for new album through Listenable Records for their third album, "Irradiant". As previously reported, the CD will be issued in a special, limited-edition digipak version, featuring loads of bonus stuff, including the video for "Emulate The Soul". The follow-up to 2002's "Luminiferous" was recorded at Dug-Out Studio in Uppsala, Sweden with producers Daniel Bergstrand (MESHUGGAH, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD) and Orjan Ornkloo (MISERY LOVES CO.) and features a guest appearance by DEFLESHED vocalist/bassist Gustaf Jorde. In other news, SCARVE have posted a bunch of photos taken at their most recent live appearance at the Brise-Glace in Annecy, France. Check them out at the link below: ' .
Swedish power metallers ETERNIA will release their new single, "Shadow Gate", in November/December. The single will include three new "heavy" ETERNIA tunes recorded at Eurosound in Umea, Sweden by Anders Zackrisson. Cover artwork was, once again, created by Jenny Pettersson. You can view the artwork ' .
Polish tech-death masters DECAPITATED have finalized the track listing for their third full-length album, "The Negatron", due in February 2004 through Wicked World/Earache Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Nihility" was recorded at Hertz Studio in Poland with engineers Slawek and Wojtek Wieslawski and is being described by bassist Martin as "very very strong," with a thick guitar sound. The complete track listing for the album is as follows: 01. The Fury 02. Three-Dimensional Defect 03. Sensual Sickness 04. Calling 05. The Negation 06. Long-Desired Dementia 07. The Empty Throne 08. Lying And Weak 09. Lunatic Of God (DEICIDE cover, bonus track)
DECAPITATED will play a one-off show in London in December and will follow it up with a proper U.K. tour in February.
Canadian death metallers KATAKLYSM have set March 8, 2004 as the release date through Nuclear Blast Records for their new album, "Serenity In Fire". The complete track listing for "Serenity in Fire" is as follows (in no particular order):
01. The Ambassador of Pain 02. As I Slither 03. The Resurrected 04. 10 Seconde from the End 05. The Tragedy I Preach 06. For All Our Sins 07. The Night They Returned 08. Blood on the Swans 09. Serenity in Fire 10. Under the Bleeding Sun
SHAITAN MAZAR, the new band featuring former NILE members Chief Spires (bass, vocals) and John Ehlers (guitar), have posted their entire four-song demo in MP3 format at their official web site.
The tracks available for download are as follows:
01. ' 02. ' 03. ' 04. '
SHAITAN MAZAR's musical style is being described by Spires as "ranging from the most extreme attack to metal, ambient, melodic passages. Our purpose is, basically, no limits." The band, who are completed by Jason Hohenstein (vocals), Robert Dirr (guitars) and Brett Goode (drums), are currently shopping the demo to interested labels with a view towards releasing their debut album in 2004.
Sweden's CENTINEX have announced the addition of drummer Ronnie Bergerstahl (JULIE LAUGHS NO MORE, AMARAN, MYNJUN) to the group's ranks. As previously reported, CENTINEX's new album, "Decadence - Prophecies Of Cosmic Chaos", is due in early 2004 through Candlelight Records. The complete track listing for "Decadence - Prophecies Of Cosmic Chaos" is as follows:
01. Arrival Of The Spectrum Obscure 02. Misanthropic Darkzone 03. Hollowsphere 04. Target: Dimension XII 05. Deathstar Unmasked 06. A Dynasty Of Obediance (instrumental) 07. Mechanical Future 08. Cold Deep Supremacy 09. New World Odyssey
Long-running death metallers CANNIBAL CORPSE have set "The Wretched Spawn" as the title for their forthcoming album, due in February through Metal Blade Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Gore Obsessed" is currently being recorded at Sonic Ranch studios in Tornillo, Texas with producer Neil Kernon (NEVERMORE, JUDAS PRIEST). The complete track listing for "The Wretched Spawn" (in no particular order) is as follows:
01. Severed Head Stoning 02. Psychotic Precision 03. Decency Defied 04. Frantic Disembowelment 05. Rotted Body Landslide 06. Cyanide Assassin 07. Festering In The Crypt 08. Nothing Left To Mutilate 09. Blunt Force Castration 10. The Wretched Spawn 11. Slain 12. Bent Backwards And Broken 13. They Deserve To Die
News from Morbid Records (Germany).The cold, contemplative days have arrived, still we have a couple of interesting releases, which will hopefully make you leave your cozy place near the fireplace. December 8th will be the day on which our sick Spaniards HAEMORRHAGE present their new DVD "Visions from the Morgue". This masterpiece (visually as well as in terms of sound quality !) offers you 3 videoclips, professional live recordings from the "With Full Force"- Festival 2002 performance, live shows in Holland and the Czech Republic dating back to the years 1996 through 1999. A booklet containing new gorestories from von "Dr. Obnoxius" & Co." written by Luisma will also be included. Don?t let this cool item pass you by !!! After the great success of this year?s MORBIDE FESTSPIELE we decided to release recordings from the festival on VHS video format. Release is schedules for January 2004. You can expect superb live recordings of Bonestorm, Harmony Dies, Eminenz, Blood, Manos, Ingrowing, Hellblazer, Birdflesh, Desecration, Prostitute Disfigurement, Neuraxis & Exhumed. Chicago`s Deathmonsters DISINTER are currently putting the finishing touches to their new album. It will be entitled "As we burn" and it has 10 deadly thunderstorms of quality US Death Metal in store for you. Release is also scheduled for January 2004. New with Morbid Reords are Splatter-Death Metallers PROFANATION from Gorlitz / Germany. Their second mu-sick-al baby is called "Its lunch time again" and will see the light of day early next year. We are happy to announce the inclusion of Bavarian cultgrinders COCK AND BALL TORTURE to the Morbid ranks. The production of their third, still untitled offering is planned for early 2004 and we hope to spread it among the masses next summer. We have more interesting signings coming up, stay tuned for more information any time soon. Many Morbid bands will be on tour for you next year. A three-week tour of extreme US Grinders WACO JESUS with ISACAARUM is in the planning stages. LIVIDITY have been in plan for next year?s Fuck The Commerce Festival and HAEMORRHAGE plan to perform at the next Party-San-Festival.
In support of new album "In Labyrinth Of Time" Belarus-based group APOCRYPHAL will give some concerts. November 1 - Chernigiv, Ukraine November 29 - Rechitsa, Belarus December 1 - Chernigiv, Ukraine
Check Rep. label Napalmed presents various artists compact disc (2003 CD 010) ANOMALOUS SILENCER no.6 - noise, industrial, experimental, ... CD compilation.37 international artists, 80 minutes, CD-text, 16-page multicolor booklet w/complete artists' info You can order your copy for US$ or Euro 8,- (inc. p+p).Radek Kopel, Lipova 1123, 434 01 Most, Czech republic napalmed@volny.cz; napalweb.host.sk
News from DAWN OF DEFIANCE: "Dear fans The recording of the long awaited D.O.D. debut album it's still on the way, two new songs are still being recorded and lot of shit is still being re-recorded. I wished I could go faster, but since I am just alone with every aspect of this and since I do other shit besides music, I can't put out on music all the time I would desire. The album will be finished for the age of late February / March 2004, initially distributed by two recording companies in South America and later in some points of USA an Europe. As always I want to thank you all for all the constant support I receive for the Dawn Of Defiance's project" Diego Sendra
Yaroslavl-based (Russia) group MIND ECLIPSE currently works on their new third full-length album. Already is booked Navaho Hut Records studio in Moscow, Russia, which band will enter on December, 18 to recorder with producer Arkadiy Navaho 9 brand new tracks in style of extremal black/death metal. Among the songs, which will be on album are: Gospel In Blood; A Way Across The Horizon; Of God, Satan And Other Artifacts Of Human Ignorance; Formula Of God; Murder Is A Priveledge Of Highest Ones; Titanium Cromlech. Work-title is Utopia: Formula Of God. According to MIND ECLIPSE bassist Xarfax, on new album sound will be more death metal, speed of the songs will be incredible, tracks will have more complex structure. Demo-versions of two new songs, recorded during band's live performance are posted on their official website: ' '
Upcoming MIND ECLIPSE gigs (Russia):
October 31 - Moscow, “Relax” club, “Halloween party” November 1 - Elektrostal Middle November - Tver November 25 - Yaroslavl, “Partixal” club, “Evil Prevail - 3” fest December 6 - Moscow, “Relax” club, “Musica fest V”
Worldwide premiere of new album of Finnish black/thrash/deathers TWILIGHT OPERA "The End Of Halcyon Age" delayed. Now it's due early 2004. For Russia, Ukraine and Baltian states this album was released earlier this spring through CD-Maximum. Tracklist: 01. ChaosWorm 02. Trapped in Husk of AWhite Crow 03. Bow Before My Dark 04. The End of Halcyon Age 05. Pseudogods 06. Leperthrone 07. Gothic Prelude of Capricious Equanimity 08. Cruciferous Lunacy 09. Paragon of Pregnant Night
Official news from AR - darkwave project from Ukraine. "AR is writing. I would like to invite Thee to visit ' and check ' in order to upload three tracks - "The Gates Are Open", "The Winds That Blow From The Black Sea" and "The Black Mirror of The Silent Lake" from my album "The Eternal Circle Of Life" in the vein of esoteric sympho darkwave with elements of pagan folk. If you are interested, check English and updated Russian versions of my section at NEW official website of Ukrainian Dark Syndicate: ' Current state of things provokes me to think about cancelling my contract with Falcata Galia Recordings (USA/Macedonia) (after more than two-year irresponsible inaction of the label) and looking for a new SERIOUS underground label."
Velingor (TUMULUS), vocalist of Russian black/death band MIND ECLIPSE decided to left the group. Now group is searching for the new vocalist. If it's interesting for you, you can write to xarfax@mail.ru. Velingor will lay down vocal parts for the new upcoming MIND ECLIPSE album and take part in some nearest concerts.
Russian art progressive folk metal group TUMULUS joined original drummer Ottar. Kurbat, who previosly played drums, became guitarist and Zus (guitar-player) left the band. TUMULUS bassist and mainman Velingor left other band MIND ECLIPSE. Velingor also produce the recordings of debut album of Yaroslavl-based (Russia) power/gothic metal group "STORM" at "Chek Sound" studio.
Sweden's SOILWORK will be releasing a mini-CD next month through their original label Listenable Records. The five-song effort will include previously unreleased (in the U.S. and Europe) material from their "Steelbath Suicide" and "Chainheart Machine" periods. The track listing for the CD is as follows: 1. Burn (DEEP PURPLE cover) 2. Disentigrated Skies 3. Shadow Child (original version) 4. Egypt (MERCYFUL FATE cover) 5. The Aardvark Trail (live)
MINISTRY are set to begin recording their new album on November 1. As a result, they will not be able to attend the Chicago Heros Awards ceremony next month honoring the group with a "Lifetime Achievement Award". Because MINISTRY cannot attend the event, the Chicago Heros Awards have decided to present the award to MINISTRY next year instead. MINISTRY's follow-up to this year's "Animositisomina" is due next spring/summer through Sanctuary Records.
Swedish death metallers VOMITORY will enter Studio Kuling in Orebro, Sweden in December with producer Henrik Larsson to record their fifth full-length album. A March 2004 release through Metal Blade Records is expected. In other news, VOMITORY are currently seeking a new vocalist as a result of bassist/growler Erik Rundqvist's decision to focus solely on his bass-playing duties. Erik will still lay down the vocals on the forthcoming VOMITORY album and will continue to play bass for the group. Interested parties can contact the band at band@vomitory.net. "But if you're not 100% serious, don't waste our time!" the band write on their web site.
Sweden's ARCH ENEMY have announced brand-new tour dates in the U.K. leading up to the Christmas K! Fest. Special guests at the gigs will be U.K. Satanic black/death metal band AKERCOCKE. The dates are as follows: Dec. 16 - Glasgow, UK @ King Tuts Dec. 17 - Leeds, UK @ Cockpit Dec. 18 - Birmingham, UK @ Academy II Dec. 21 - London, UK @ Mean Fiddler
Veteran German metallers PARADOX have announced plans to record a new studio album in early 2004. The as-yet-untitled effort will feature the same lineup as 2000's "Collision Course" (including current RHAPOSODY/occasional BLIND GUARDIAN fill-in drummer Alex Holzwarth), and will surface in late 2004 through Germany's AFM Records.
Swiss melodic metallers EMERALD have competed work on their third full-length album, "Forces Of Doom", at Mohrmann Studios in Bochum, Germany with producers Detlef Mohrmann and Axel Thubeauville. Included on the CD is a guest appearance by MAJESTY guitarist Tarek Maghary, who played a solo on the title cut, "Forces Of Doom". A January/February 2004 release through Germany's Crazy Life Music/Shark Records is expected. The complete track listing for "Forces Of Doom" is as follows: 01. Enter The Emerald Castle 02. Tears Of A Warrior 03. Until Freedom Returns 04. Blood Of Our Kings 05. Forever06. Something In The Dark 07. Also Wild 08. On The Wings Of The Night 09. Forces Of Doom 10. Song Of Hope 11. Birth Of A Legend
More Hate are pround to present new band. Label signed a deal with Tver-based (Russia) pagan metal capella PAGAN REIGN for re-releasing their "Otbleski Slavy I Vozrozhdenie Bylogo Velichiya" album and exclusive distribution of this CD worldwide by More Hate Productions company. Release will be out later this year with new artwork. Next few monthes will out some new albums: THERM. EYE. FLAME "Solar Nebula" modernized black metal and BARBARITY "The Wish to Bleed" brutal grinding death metal (ex-MORTIFER drummer band).
September 29, 2003 since Jesus Christ's born on English firm Rage Of Achilles Records (http://www.rageofachilles.com/) is out long sophomore album of blasphemic black metal project DER GERWELT, titled "Human Breed". ALbum was recorded with new line-up, featured participants of TALES OF DARKNORD (Alex Duke) and ROSSOMAHAAR (Lazar). Music of DER GERWELT changed a little, sound became more heavy and have elements of death and dark metal. Plus live work of session drummer! In Russia album released through More Hate Productions the same day of the official release date and is already in stores.
German power metallers EDGUY have signed a long-term deal with Nuclear Blast Records. The group's first release for the label - an as-yet-untitled EP - will surface in early 2004, to be followed by the band's new full-length studio effort, "Hellfire Club" in March. Singer Tobias Sammet describes the album as the group's "most diverse and majestic" offering so far. The follow-up to 2001's "Mandrake", which includes a collaboration with the German film orchestra Babelsberg (SCORPIONS), was produced by EDGUY and Norman Meiritz, with additional assistance from Sascha Paeth (RHAPSODY, ANGRA), who was responsible for the mighty drum sound on the album. The final mix took place at the famous Finnvox Studios (NIGHTWISH, STRATOVARIUS) in Helsinki, Finland.
Danish death thrashers URKRAFT have set "Eternal Cosmic Slaughter" as the title for their debut album, tentatively due in the spring through Germany's Voice Of Life Records. The band, whose music has been described as an "uncompromising mix of pure death metal, melodies, harsh vocals and enough power to open the gates of hell," will enter Antfarm Studio (EXMORTEM, MNEMIC, RAUNCHY) in January 2004 with producer Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, KONKHRA) to record the album, which will contain nine "aggressive, thrashy death metal tracks."
France's HEAVENLY have set "Dust To Dust" as the title for their third album, due on January 12 through Sanctuary/Noise Records. The follow-up to 2001's "Sign Of The Winner", which is being described by the band as "more heavy metal and more symphonic" than the group's previous efforts, is currently being mixed by Sascha Paeth (ANGRA, RHAPSODY, KAMELOT). The complete track listing for "Dust To Dust" is as follows: Chapter I 01. Ashes To Ashes... 02. Evil 03. Lust For Life 04. Victory (Creatures Of The Night) Chapter II 05. Illusion Part I 06. Illusion Part II (the call of the wild) 07. The Ritual 08. Keepers Of The Earth 09. Miracle Chapter III 10. Fight For Deliverance 11. Hands Of Darkness 12. Kingdom Come
GRIMFIST, the Norwegian band featuring ex-IMMORTAL drummer Horgh, are the final act to have been announced for the "Blackest Of The Black" show at London, England's The Forum on November 22. Other bands appearing on the bill are headliners DANZIG, MARDUK, ZYKLON, ORANGE GOBLIN and MELDRUM.
Norwegian power metallers MEMORIZED DREAMS will enter Skansen Lydstudio in Trondheim, Norway on October 31 with producer Stein Bratland to begin recording their debut album, "Theater Of Life". The CD, which will feature a guest appearance by singer Olaf Hayer (DIONYSUS, LUCA TURILLI, LORD BYRON) in the title track, will be mastered by Tommy Newton at Area 51 Studios in Germany. An early 2004 release through Sound Riot Records is expected. Download MP3 clips of two pre-production/demo tracks: ' '
DARK FUNERAL guitarist Lord Ahriman has posted the following update on the band's official web site: "It has been quite some time since DARK FUNERAL has released any official news. We might have been quiet but we sure haven't been inactive! After a successful gig at the Wacken Open Air Festival in Germany the first weekend of August, we headed down to South America for a tour through Brazil, Chile and Columbia. We have recently returned home and let me tell you, we are still high off the tremendously overwhelming response we got from all you crazy maniacs over there! Before we flew over for the tour, we had been told that the South American metal crowd was very energetic and dedicated, but we couldn't even have dreamed of getting such a massive response as we got. You guys fucking rule! These shows will indeed stay in our memory forever. "We would like to apologize to the fans in Antofagasta (Chile). We know there were many of you who were expecting us there and we're really sorry that we never made it to you. We were really looking forward to playing there. We never got any explanation to why it was cancelled. We were only told it was cancelled and that there was nothing we could do about it. DARK FUNERAL would like to thank all of you crazy fuckers who came out to the shows, you were all amazing! A special debt of gratitude goes out to all of the local promoters and last but not least a special HAIL goes out to Carlos Aguilar & Alejandro of Blackshadows Tattoo, who hooked us up with some new ink while playing Chile. "And now for a surprise - during the tour we had recorded a couple of the shows with plans to release it as a live album! We have been in the studio the past week with our live sound engineer Erik Lidbom, sifting through all the recorded material. There is so much good stuff we might even release two live albums! We are preparing now to start mixing the first one, which will include the following tracks: 1. The Arrival Of Satan's Empire 2. An Apprentice Of Satan 3. The Dawn No More Rises 4. Thy Legions Come 5. Hail Murder 6. Goddess Of Sodomy 7. The Secrets Of The Black Arts 8. Vobiscum Satanas 9. Shadows Over Transylvania 10. Open The Gates 11. Ineffable Kings Of Darkness 12. Thus I Have Spoken 14. My Dark Desires 15. Armageddon Finally Comes
"We hope to get this killer release out to the fans as soon as possible. If all goes as plan, a second live album will be released shortly after. More info on that to come... "DARK FUNERAL has officially left the label MNW/No Fashion Records. It's yet not decided with what label we will work with on this live album(s). Once we're done with the mix we'll ship it out to various labels to shop for a distribution deal. Stay tuned for more info on this also. "DARK FUNERAL are currently looking for high-resolution photos (300 DPI or higher) taken during our South American tour. We will need them for the CD booklet of the forthcoming live album(s). If you have some, please let us know via e-mail. We will then instruct you how to send us a CD-R with complete info on where they are taken and your personal information. Send inquiries to: ' "DARK FUNERAL has also been in the early stages of writing material for a new album. More news on this and our new guitarist, Chaq Mol, will follow in the months to come. "Hail Metal. Hail Satan! Lord Ahriman, DARK FUNERAL"
British black metallers THE MEADS OF ASPHODEL will issue their second album, "Exhuming The Grave Of Yeshua", later this month through Supernal Music The complete track listing for "Exhuming The Grave Of Yeshua" is as follows: 01. Intro-Exhuming the Grave of Yeshua 02. God is Rome 03. Blood Blasted Holy War 04. 80 Grains of Sand 05. Guts for Sale 06. Utopia 07. Sons of Anak Rise 08. A Healer made God 09. Sluts of the Netherworld 10. On Graven Images I Glide Beyond The Monstrous Gates Of Pandemonium To Face The Baptized Warriors Of Yahweh In The Skull Littered Plain Of Esdraelon 11. Book Of Dreams (bonus track)
Norway's EINHERJER have posted photos from their recent "Ironbound" video shoot at the following location: www.einherjer.com/video.htm "Ironbound" comes off the group's recently released album, "Blot", available through Tabu Recordings.
Due to problems with the artwork, the release of the new MY DYING BRIDE album, tentatively titled "The Thirteenth Chapter", album has been delayed to the end of this year/beginning of 2004. The follow-up to 2001's "The Dreadful Hours" was recorded at Academy Studios and features material that is being described as "objective" observers as "very dark and twisted."
Sweden's DIABOLICAL MASQUERADE, the side-project of KATATONIA guitarist Anders Nystrom (a.k.a. Blakkheim), have entered Studio Castillo in Stockholm with engineer David Castillo (live sound engineer for KATATONIA) to begin recording their fifth album, tentatively due in early 2004 through Avantgarde Music. The follow-up to 2001's "Death's Design" will be a musical "cross between 'Nightwork' (1998) and 'Death's Design' - in other words lots of horror, weirdness and METAL!" according to the band's official web site. No further details are available at this time.
Swedish high-energy thrashers THE HAUNTED have officially parted ways with vocalist Marco Aro and have replaced him with his predecessor, the group's original frontman Peter Dolving (MARY BEATS JANE, THE PETER DOLVING BAND). Check out a new band photo ' . THE HAUNTED have fulfilled their contractual obligations to Earache Records and are expected to sign a new record deal during the coming months. The group's last album, "One Kill Wonder", was released this past February.
Polish black/death metallers BEHEMOTH have parted ways with session guitarist Havok and are currently seeking a replacement. Interested parties can contact the group at nergal69@poczta.onet.pl. Comments guitarist/vocalist Nergal, "Havok decided to part his ways with BEHEMOTH. Lately he's been struggling [with] some personal problems. As a result he lost interest in this band, and the whole extreme metal genre - he simply burned out. We spent together absolutely killer time touring all over the world and recording two [of] BEHEMOTH's best albums. We wish him all the best. American tour and the show in Israel will be the last thing we'll do together. Later we will focus on writing the new stuff and eventually finding a replacement."
Finland's SENTENCED have been accused of being secret "Nazi" sympathizers after penning a song in support of their local hockey team which contains lyrics that allegedly include the motto used by the Hitler Youth organization (Hitler Jugend) during the 1930s. This past summer, SENTENCED were approached by the representatives of the Oulu-based hockey team Oulun Karpat about composing a Finnish-language track for inclusion on a CD collection of songs written and recorded in support of the team. SENTENCED's contribution, titled "Routasydan", was composed by guitarist Miika Tenkula and the lyrics were written by guitarist Sami Lopakka. Included in the text was the line (in Finnish) "Sisu, veri ja kunnia," which roughly translates to "courage, blood and honor." Shortly after the song was completed, an Oulu town official wrote to the local newspaper to complain that the phrase "blood and honor" (in German "Blut und Ehre") was also used by the Hitler Jugend organization as their motto, suggesting that SENTENCED were secret Nazi sympathizers. A public uproar followed, eventually leading Oulun Karpat representatives to ask Lopakka to change the offending lyrics, a request that was immediately denied. As a result, the team decided to stop playing the song at their ice hall during their home games. SENTENCED, who claim to be completely against Nazism and racism of any kind, were shocked and disappointed by the team's decision to pull the song. "This is total bullshit - we can't believe this!" drummer Vesa Ranta told Sonera Plaza. "We made this song for an ice-hockey team... Well, let's see… 'Courage' is something that every team needs to win. Next, for Oulun Karpat, it's always been important to have a lot of local players on their own team - in other words, their 'own blood.' And third, when you are playing [on a team and representing your town], you are playing because of 'honor.' When we were doing this song, we couldn't even think that somebody would think like that! Everyone who knows us knows that we have absolutely nothing to do with Nazism and shit like that." A short MP3 clip of SENTENCED's a "controversial" song written and recorded in support of their local hockey team, Oulun Karpat, ' .
At Saturday, the 11th of October, the band will be at 8 pm CET in a new chatroom, which was especially arranged for this chat. So, if you have any questions, if you want to give us a piece of your mind or if you simply want to have some smalltalk, just visit our website and step into our chatroom. You can enter the chat at http://www.domainband.de, how to enter the room will be explained at the main page of the site.
New album of German band SMIRNOFF, "The Deadly Return" was released early September through More Hate Productions. Group plays killer death grind a'la MACABRE, other German's maniacs. After first two full-length albums music of these guys bacomes more heavy and brutal. But firm feature - crust elements - is still here, which gives some charm to sound.
DEVILS WHOREHOUSE, the side project of MARDUK guitarist Morgan Hakansson and bassist B. War, will participate in a compilation CD entitled "This Is Horror Punk". The album will be a limited-edition release through Fiendforce Records and is expected to be issued on Halloween (October 31). Other groups set to appear on the album include THE UNDEAD (featuring Bobby Steele, ex-MISFITS), BALZAC, ROCK CITY MORGUE (featuring ex-WHITE ZOMBIE bassist Sean Yseult, GRAVEYARD BOULEVARD (ex-FRANKENSTEIN DRAG QUEENS), and X-WARD (featuring Dr. Chud, ex-MISFITS, on vocals and guitar). As previously reported, DEVILS WHOREHOUSE will issue a full-length album, "Revelation Unorthodox", in November through Blooddawn Productions. "Revelation Unorthodox", which will be available on CD as well as limited edition LP and picture-disc LP, is the follow-up to the mini-album "Howling", which was released in 2000. Tentative plans exist for the EP to be reissued as a limited-edition digipack featuring several bonus tracks. Download two MP3 clips from the forthcoming album: ' '
A brand new IMAGIKA demo track, titled ' , has been posted online. "Last Battalion" features the talents of the San Francisco power/thrash metal group's new vocalist Norman Skinner (MACHINE CALLED MAN, TRAMOTANE) who replaced longtime singer David Michael last month. IMAGIKA's fourth album is due in early 2004 through an as-yet-undisclosed label. The band, who were previously signed to Germany's Massacre Records, released their last CD, "And So It Burns", in October 2000.
H.I.M.'s video for the song "Buried Alive By Love" has been posted online at the G.U.N./ Supersonic Records web site. Check it out: ' ' The clip was shot over the Dec. 15-18, 2002 weekend with Bam Margera of "Jackass" fame in the director's chair. Juliette Lewis was the female person in the video, which was filmed at the spectacular Los Angeles Theatre in downtown L.A. H.I.M. will release their first-ever live album, tentatively titled "Live Metal", on November 17. The album, which will be issued in a special package that will also include a DVD, was filmed/recorded last spring when the group played seven consecutive shows at Semifinal club in their hometown of Helsinki. In addition, BMG will be releasing a "Greatest Hits" album sometime next year. A new H.I.M. studio album (some of the material for which has already been completed by mainman Ville Valo) will not surface before 2005.
Stockholm, Sweden's MELDRUM, the band featuring former PHANTOM BLUE guitarist Michelle Meldrum, have been confirmed as one of the support acts on DANZIG's upcoming European mini-tour. The trek, which is scheduled to kick off in late November, will include a one-off U.K. appearance in London on November 22 under the "Blackest Of The Black" banner. MELDRUM have spent the last few months writing and recording material to be included on the as-yet-untitled follow-up to their debut album, "Loaded Mental Cannon", due in early 2004. Among the 20 or so tracks demoed during the sessions are "Insomniac", "Purge", "Never Ending", "Bite The Pillow", "Creme De La Creme", "Desensitized", and "Down Your Throat". In addition, the band have recorded a version of MOTORHEAD's "The Chase Is Better Than The Catch" for inclusion on an upcoming MOTORHEAD tribute album. Other acts set to appear on the CD include ENTOMBED ("One Track Mind"), HAVANA BLACK ("We Are The Road Crew"), SATOR ("Over The Top"), NOMADS ("Motorhead"), and THE HELLACOPTERS ("Speedfreak").
German black metallers AGATHODAIMON will shortly begin pre-production on their fourth album, "Darkened Days", tentatively due in May 2004 through Nuclear Blast Records. The band, who were recently joined by bassist Darin "Eddie" Smith, will once again record the next album at Kohlekeller Studio with producer Kristian Kohlmannslehner (CREMATORY). The first edition of the album will likely include a bonus CD featuring material from the group's early demos, "Carpe Noctem" and "Near Dark", as well as rare and unreleased tracks. Style-wise, the new songs will reportedly be a continuation of 2001's "Chapter III". Commented guitarist Sathonys: "Due to the line-up changes in the past months, our sound surely will experience some changes. But it's important for us to continue our progression as well as to keep our identity and the feeling of the music itself. Those who know our band already will know that every new album will feature new elements without losing our style and musical path. At the moment it seems that the new album will have an even darker approach than 'Chapter III'."
MENTAL DEMISE together with Corezone organize on 9th of October in Kiev, Ukraine concert with legendary Austrian band PUNGENT STENCH. It can be hapen, that MENTAL DEMISE will be official support of the band at concerts in Belarus, Ukraine and Russsia. "I can't be to say in which cities will we play, but I think in nearest future more will be known." tells band's participant Bolt
Norway's EINHERJER have shot a video for the track "Ironbound". "The editing should be finished in a week or so," reads a post on the band's web site. "Ironbound" comes off the group's recently released album, "Blot", available through Tabu Recordings. The follow-up to 2000's "Norwegian Native Art" was mixed at Top Room Studio with Borge Finstad (ARCTURUS, MAYHEM, BORKNAGAR) and is said to be the longest EINHERJER album to date.
Sweden's IN FLAMES have entered a rented house/converted studio in Denmark to record the follow-up to 2002's "Reroute To Remain", tentatively due in early 2004. The CD, which is being produced by Daniel Bergstrand (MESHUGGAH, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD) and Orjan Ornkloo (ex-MISERY LOVES CO.), will surface through Nuclear Blast Records in Europe, with whom the group have two albums remaining under the terms of their present contract
Austrian death/black metal act BELPHEGOR have signed a deal with Napalm Records for the release of their fourth full-length album, "Lucifer Incestus", tentatively due in late November. The follow-up to 2000's "Necrodaemon Terrorsathan" was recorded at Mastersound studios In Stuttgart/Fellbach, Germany with producer Alex Krull (ATROCITY) and will be released in three different formats: limited-edition digipack with bonus CD-Rom video clip ("Lucifer Incestus"), the regular CD version, and the limited vinyl edition with a gatefold sleeve. The complete track listing for "Lucifer Incestus" is as follows: 01. Inflamate Christianos (intro) 02. The Goatchrist 03. Diaboli Virtues In Lumbar Est 04. Demonic Staccato Erection 05. Lucifuge / Paradise Regained 06. Fukk The Blood Of Christ 07. The Sin-Hellfucked 08. Swarm Of Rats 09. Lucifer Incestus
Veteran German thrashers TANKARD are preparing to enter Stage One studio in Buhne, Germany with producer Andy Classen to begin recording their new album, "Beast of Bourbon". Among the tracks set to appear on the CD are "Fistful Of Love", "Under Friendly Fire", "Genetic Overkill" and "Die With A Beer In Your Hand". The follow-up to last year's "B-Day" is due in March 2004 through AFM Records.
DIONYSUS, the Swedish/German melodic power metal act featuring the voice behind guitarist Luca Turilli's solo work, Olaf Hayer, and ex-SINERGY drummer Ronny Milianowicz, are in the final phase of the recording sessions for their new album, tentatively due in February 2004 through AFM Records. The CD, which is being recorded at Studio Kuling in Orebro, Sweden with producer Jens Moberg (KATATONIA, LAMBRETTA, CRYSTAL BLUE), will likely be titled "Anima Mundi" (Latin for "The Soul of the World"). DIONYSUS' debut album, "Sign Of Truth" (2002), was recorded at Rhon Studios in Fulda, Germany with producer Tobias Sammet (EDGUY) and was mixed at Area 51 studios by Tommy Newton (HELLOWEEN, VICTORY).
Swedish "dark death metal" act RUNEMAGICK will enter the studio in mid-November to begin recording their new album, "On Funeral Wings", tentatively due in the spring through Aftermath Music. The recordings for the album will take place at various locations with equipment from the band's own Magick Sound Studio, while the mix will be done at Magick Sound in January. According to the band's web site, the new material is "much in the vein of the latest album 'Darkness Death Doom', with some new ideas and dimensions." Among the tracks set to appear on "On Funeral Wings" are the following: 01. Monolithic Death 02. Rise of the 2nd Moon 03. On Funeral Wings 04. Dragon of Doom 05. Hyperion 06. Ocean Demon 07. The Doomsday Scythe
Swedish "gothic metal" act BESEECH set finalized the track listing for their fourth full-length album, "Drama", due in early 2004 through Napalm Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Souls Highway" was recorded at Studio Mega and was mastered at Cutting Room. The group's first effort since the departure of longtime guitarist Klas Bohlin will include an enhanced portion featuring rare bonus material. The complete track listing for "Drama" is as follows: 01. Drama 02. Higher Level 03. Voices 04. Forever Falling 05. Bitch 06. Addicted 07. Come On In 08. Friend Emptiness
MESHUGGAH vocalist Jens Kidman has recorded a guest appearance on MUSHROOMHEAD's forthcoming CD, "XIII", due on October 14 through Universal Records. Kidman reportedly shares lead vocal duties with MUSHROOMHEAD frontman Jason Mann in the track "The Dream Is Over". As previously reported, MESHUGGAH have started writing material for the follow-up to last year's "Nothing", tentatively due in late 2004/early 2005
Finland's NIGHTWISH have begun the final preparations for the recording of their new album, tentatively due in June 2004 through Spinefarm Records. "[The] band will lock themselves at the studio where they'll spend about a month practicing and arranging the songs for the new album," according to post on the group's web site. The band will once again use their own studio (Caverock) in Kitee to record the drums, bass and keyboards/synths, while the vocals and guitars will be recorded at Helsinki's Finnvox facility. 13 new songs and one cover version will be recorded during the sessions, which are expected to be completed by the end of March
KATAKLYSM will enter Studio Victor in Montreal in November to begin recording their new album, "Serenity In Fire", for a February 16, 2004 release through Nuclear Blast Records. The album will be produced by KATAKLYSM guitarist Jean-Francois Dagenais (MISERY INDEX, MALEVOLENT CREATION) and will be mixed at Wildsound studio in St-Zenon, Quebec. The complete track listing for "Serenity in Fire" is as follows (in no particular order): 01. The Ambassador of Pain 02. As I Slither 03. The Resurrected 04. 10 Seconde from the End 05. The Tragedy I Preach 06. For All Our Sins 07. The Night They Returned 08. Blood on the Swans 09. Serenity in Fire 10. Under the Bleeding Sun
Swedish black metallers LORD BELIAL have announced the addition of guitarist Hjalmar Nielsen to the group's ranks. Nielsen replaces Niclas "Pepa" Andersson, who left the band in early July for reasons that have yet to be disclosed. Niclas' decision to exit the group came several weeks after the departure of drummer Michael Backelin, who has since been replaced by RUNEMAGICK/ex-RELEVANT FEW skinsman Daniel Moilanen (half-brother of former SHOTGUN MESSIAH guitarist Harry K. Cody). LORD BELIAL recently entered Los Angered Recording in Angered (Gothenburg), Sweden to begin recording their new album, tentatively titled "The Seal Of Belial". The self-produced effort is being engineered by Nicklas Rudolfsson and Andy La Rocque (KING DIAMOND), and will be mixed by Andy. A late 2003/early 2004 release through Regain Records is expected.
A second MP3 clip from the forthcoming STRATOVARIUS album, "Elements Pt. 2", has been posted online at the group's official web site. The track "I'm Still Alive" is track No. 3 on the upcoming CD, due on October 27 through Nuclear Blast Records. The album, which will once again feature artwork by Derek Riggs, will contain the following songs: 1. Alpha & Omega 2. ' 3. ' 4. Season Of Faith's Perfection 5. Awaken The Giant 6. Know The Difference 7. Luminous 8. Dreamweaver 9. Liberty 10. Ride Like The Wind (Japanese bonus)
You can view the artwork for "Elements Part 2" ' .
Swedish black metallers DARK FUNERAL are currently in the studio working on a live album featuring material recorded during their recent South American tour. Live album will include a total of 15 tracks.
APOCALYPTICA's video for their collaboration with German punk rock diva Nina Hagen on a cover of RAMMSTEIN's "Seemann" has been posted online in Real Media format at the following location: '
ANTHRAX will be shooting a video for the track "What Doesn't Die" in early November with director Brian Posehn. "I won't give away any details because if I do some other band will steal our idea," guitarist Scott Ian writes in the latest installment of his online diary. "It will be intense."
HYPERBOREA, the new Butchery Music label band will finish their album in next two weeks. The band play hard & brutal Death Metal (ala SIX FEET UNDER and AVULSED) and soon their MP3 wwill be avaliable for downloading from Butchery Musci website - www.butchery-music.com
A brand new ANATHEMA track, titled ' , has been posted online MP3 format. "Are You There?" comes off the group's forthcoming seventh studio album, "A Natural Disaster", due on October 20 through Music For Nations Records. The follow-up to 2001's "A Fine Day to Exit" was recorded and mixed at Parkgate Studios near Hastings, U.K. (except for two songs, which were mixed in Nottingham at Electric Mayhem) and was produced by the and engineered by Dan Turner. Cover artwork was handled by artist extraordinaire Travis Smith. The complete track listing for "A Natural Disaster" is as follows:
PANZER X, the solo project of VADER vocalist/guitarist Peter, are tentatively scheduled to enter Studio X in Olsztyn, Poland in November/December to record a three-song demo. Although the band's lineup has yet to be solidified, the vocal duties will likely be handled by Grzegorz Kupczyk (CETI, TURBO). No further information is available at this time.
The band DEIVOS include on their web site (www.deivos.metal.pl) pictures from their last show with CICATRIX, BLASPHEMY RITES, PROFUNDIS, REQUIEM and NECROSADIST in Dublin (Poland). Problems in Belarus stop for this moment their show with PUNGENT STENCH in this country. Their first official album "Hostile Blood" will be out on next week.
VADER have just issued a new mini-CD, titled "Blood", through Metal Blade Records. The seven-song effort contains two new songs, "We Wait" and "Shape-shifting", which were recorded over a one-week period beginning on July 10 at Red Studio with engineer Piotr Lukaszewski ("Reign Forever World", "Revelations").
A five song preview of the forthcoming KING DIAMOND CD, "The Puppet Master", ' . (Macromedia Flash required) The songs available for listening are "The Ritual", "Blue Eyes", "Emerencia", "Magic" and "The Puppet Master". Due on October 21 through Metal Blade Records, "The Puppet Master" album will contain a bonus disc of frontman/namesake King Diamond telling the story of "The Puppet Master" in full make-up. Massacre Records (King's European label) will also release "The Puppet Master" on regular vinyl and as a picture-disc LP. You can view the cover of "The Puppet Master" ' .
FINNTROLL will enter Sundicoop Studio in Savonlinna, Finland in November to begin recording their new album, tentatively due in the spring. "At this point we have 30 minutes of material," said keyboardist Trollhorn. The music is the best we've ever made, as usual. Combining the melodies of 'Jaktens Tid', the rawness and sheer maliciousness from 'Midnattens' and the epicness of 'Visor om Slutet', it should be a killer. Lyrics will be in Swedish, as usual, and no English will be used." A two-and-a-half-minute demo "preview" of the new material has been posted online in MP3 format at the link below: '
RAMMSTEIN's forthcoming DVD will be titled "Lichtspielhaus" (German for "Cinema" or "Movie House") and will surface in Europe on November 17. It will be released in PAL and NTSC formats. The following is the unofficial track listing for the DVD:
Promo videos:
1. Du Riechst So Gut 2. Seemann 3. Rammstein 4. Engel 5. Du Hast 6. Du Riechst So Gut 98 7. Sonne 8. Links 2, 3, 4 9. Ich Will 10. Mutter 11. Feuer Frei (featuring additional audio comments of the band)
Making of...:
1. Sonne 2. Ich Will 3. Links 2, 3, 4 4. Du Hast 5. Feuer Frei 6. Du Riechst So Gut +Interviews
Additional footage:
MTV US MTV Masters (updated) Kerrang Awards
Live Shows (clips):
Berlin Arena 1996 Rock am Ring 1998 Berlin Wuhlheide 1998 Mexico (KISS Tour) 1999 Big Day Out (Australia)
Karmageddon Media proudly announce the worldwide signing of England's FOREFATHER. Their new, and meanwhile 4th, album titled "Ours Is The Kingdom" is currently being recorded. The FOREFATHER project was born in September 1997 in Surrey, England by founding members and brothers Athelstan (guitar, bass & keyboard) and Wulfstan (guitar, bass & vocals). The aim was to create powerful and epic Metal tributes to their to their Anglo-Saxon ancestors, straight from the heart and of the highest quality. During the years Forefather released 3 albums on their own strength through their own recordlabel Angelisc Enterprises. "Ours Is The Kingdom" is scheduled for an early 2004 release on Karmageddon Media. Previous to the new album Karmageddon Media will re-issue the 3 former albums ("Deep Into Time", "The Fighting Man", "Engla Tocyme") with bonus-tracks and remastered sound.
Finnish metallers INSOMNIUM are completing work on their sophomore album, tentatively due in early 2004 through Candlelight Records. "The mixing will be finished during this week and the mastering will take place somewhere in the next month," the band write on their web site. "We will update these pages soon and add studio diary and some pictures from the session, but first we have to take few week break and just relax. We really need to get our minds away from this long and stressing effort and concentrate for a while to our studies and day jobs. After that we have more energy and strength to keep on going. So all you need is little patience."
SOULFLY mainman Max Cavalera has officially parted ways with the rest of his band — bassist Marcello D. Rapp, drummer Roy Mayorga, and guitarist Mike Doling. According to informed sources, the mass exodus was prompted by the firing of Rapp by Max and SOULFLY manager Gloria Cavalera (Max's wife), which in turn led Mayorga and Doling to quit in protest. Cavalera has assembled a new line-up for a selection of upcoming Soulfly shows over in America. He will be joined by guitarist Marc Rizzo (ex-ILL NINO), drummer Joe Nunez (who played on the group's "Primitive" release and subsequent world tour), and bassist Bobby Burns (ex-PRIMER 55 guitarist). It is not yet known if this is the line-up that will push ahead with work on the band's fourth album, tentatively due next summer through Roadrunner Records.
Norwegian black metallers MAYHEM have re-signed with Season Of Mist Records for the release of their new album, "Chimera". The CD will be recorded at a mobile studio in the mountains of Norway during November/December and is scheduled for release during March 2004. According to an official press release from the label, the forthcoming CD will not be as "daring" as 2000's "Grand Declaration of War" but will instead see the group going back to the band's "darker times." Among the tracks set to appear on the upcoming CD are the following:
1. Rape Humanity With Pride 2. Chimera 3. Dark Night Of The Soul 4. Deathwhore
Swedish thrashers THE CROWN have posted full-length MP3 of their new track ' . "Zombiefied" comes off the group's forthcoming CD, "Possessed 13", due on October 20 through Metal Blade Records.
DESTRUCTION's latest CD, "Metal Discharge", is available in Europe in a double-CD edition featuring several bonus tracks not found on the regular version. The bonus cuts are as follows:
1. Killers (IRON MAIDEN) 2. Whiplash (METALLICA) 3. Fuck The U.S.A. (THE EXPLOITED) 4. Bestial Invasion (unreleased version 1999) 5. The Butcher Strikes Back (Demo 1999) 6. Nailed to the Cross (Demo 2001) 7. Metal Discharge (Demo 2003)
BLOOD RED THRONE's upcoming mini-tour in Italy with GORGOROTH was cancelled last minute. No other than the usual promoter/venue problems were given. The mini-tour will be postponed to early 2004 and a Scandinavian tour is planned for early 2004 as well. Meanwhile the band has started working on their 3rd album, bearing the working-title "Altered Genesis". The band is now discussing several recording possibilities, one option being Nergal from BEHEMOTH as sound engineer/co-producer on the new album.
Morfeus and Nesmoth are working on the pre-production of the new DIMENSION F3H album, that the band is planning to record at the end of the year. Furthermore DIMENSION F3H will play live with WINDIR at John Dee in Oslo, Norway on the 26th of September.
IMPIOUS is very busy writing new material for their upcoming 4th album. About seven songs are written so far and in October the pre-production will kick off in Digizone Studio, owned by guitarist Valle Adzic. As for recording the real album Studio Mega is booked for February/March 2004. Some titles on the new album are Suicide Park, Beneath The Underworld, Death_Wish_Scar and Bloodspill Revelation. The band actually has a title for the album but will hold on to it just a little longer.
"We have begun to write new songs as well, it's a little early to say what they sound like but an early indication would seem they are extremely dark with an almost trancelike quality. Hopefully you'll get to hear them before 2005" according to PRIMORDIAL spokesman A.A. Nemtheanga.
Karmageddon Media is extremely proud to present PROJECT: FAILING FLESH Hereby label proudly announce the exclusive signing of PROJECT: FAILING FLESH for the European territories. PROJECT: FAILING FLESH consists of Timothy Gutierrez (instruments), former VOIVOD-vocalist Eric Forrest and Kevin 131 (instruments). The album "A Beautiful Sickness" was recorded and mixed at Assembly Line Studios in Vienna Virginia (USA) under supervision of producer Kevin 131. The release for "A Beautiful Sickness" is scheduled for December 1st on Karmageddon Media. Musically it's kind of industrial metal. For more information and soundclips of Project: Failing Flesh check the band's official website.
A brand new WOLVERINE track, titled ' , has been posted online in MP3 format. "New Best Friends" comes off the group's forthcoming album, "Cold Light Of Monday", tentatively due on November 17 through Elitist Records The complete track listing for "Cold Light Of Monday" is as follows:
01. Dawn 02. Sarah 03. ' 04. Tightrope 05. Carousel 06. Trust 07. Pantomime 08. Red Canvas 09. Dusk 10. Tied With Sin 11. The Final Redemption
INCANTATION are searching for a session touring guitarist with the possibility of becoming a permanent member. The band are looking for "someone with talent, dedication, integrity, and the sincere commitment for the INCANTATION style of death metal. This means NO egos, rockstars, scumbags, backstabbers, ect. So if you think you've got what it takes to be a true metaller, contact ' ."
Chicago doom metal act DEAD OF WINTER have announced the addition of ex-AVERNUS guitarist/current FLESHGRIND bassist James Genenz and ex-AVERNUS drummer William Hamning to the group's ranks. The band, who are currently writing material for a new demo, hope to secure a label deal in 2004 and release their debut album shortly thereafter. In the meantime, sample the song "In Vain" at the following location: '
Sweden's TIAMAT have finished filming the promotional video for their new single "Cain" with Revolver Film Company's (www.revolver.se) award-winning director Patric Ullaeus (DIMMU BORGIR, WITHIN TEMPTATION, PASSENGER). "Cain", due on September 29 through Century Media Records, will contain a radio edit of the album opener, the straight, up-tempo rocker "Love In Chains", and an exclusive cover version of the old W.A.S.P. classic "Sleeping (In The Fire)" — all packaged in a nice digipak with cover artwork by mainman Johan Edlund himself. "Cain" comes off TIAMAT's eighth studio album, "Prey", due on October 27 through Century Media. The self-produced CD, which is being described as one of Edlund's most personal recorded statements to date, was mixed and mastered at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Finland. Although it is not a concept album, there is a strong unifying theme running through each of the 13 tracks. The complete track listing for "Prey" is as follows:
1. Cain 2. Ten Thousand Tentacles 3. Wings Of Heaven 4. Love In Chains 5. Divided 6. Carry Your Cross And I'll Carry Mine 7. Triple Cross 8. Light In Extension 9. Prey 10. The Garden Of Heathen 11. Clovenhoof 12. Nihil 13. The Pentagram
Swedish melodic metallers HAMMERFALL have confirmed the track listing for their upcoming live CD/DVD, "One Crimson Night", due on October 20 through Nuclear Blast. The CD/DVD will contain the entire concert from Lisebergshallen in Goteborg, Sweden on February 20, 2003, while the DVD will also include an "On The Road" documentary from the European part of "The Crimson Crusades", as well as the gold-album ceremony held on stage in Goteborg. The track listing for "One Crimson Night" is as follows:
01. Lore Of The Arcane 02. Riders Of The Storm 03. Heeding The Call 04. Stone Cold 05. Hero's Return 06. Legacy Of Kings 07. Bass Solo: Magnus Rosen 08. At The End Of The Rainbow 09. The Way Of The Warrior 10. The Unforgiving Blade 11. Glory To The Brave 12. Guitar Solo: Stefan Elmgren 13. Let The Hammer Fall 14. Renegade 15. Steel Meets Steel 16. Crimson Thunder 17. Templars Of Steel 18. Hearts On Fire 19. Hammerfall
Swedish melodic metallers NOSTRADAMEUS will be entering Roasting House studios in Malmo, Sweden on November 10 to begin recording their fourth album, due in early 2004 through Germany's AFM Records. NOSTRADAMEUS' last studio album, "The Third Prophecy", was released in January.
DESTRUCTION have shooted a new video for the song "Desecrators (of the new age)", taken from the upcoming album "Metal Discharge". It is available in different formats on band's official website at the following location : '
IRON MAIDEN have posted online cuts of all their new album, "Dance Of Death", songs, for 45 seconds each. As previously reported, album was released on 8th of September this year (exactly a week ago). So, download 'em all: 01. Wildest Dreams 02. Rainmaker 03. No More Lies 04. Montsegur 05. Dance Of Death 06. Gates Of Tomorrow 07. New Frontier 08. Paschendale 09. Face In The Sand 10. Age Of Innocence 11. Journeyman
San Francisco power/thrash metallers IMAGIKA have announced the addition of vocalist Norman Skinner (MACHINE CALLED MAN, TRAMOTANE) to the band's ranks. Skinner replaces longtime singer David Michael, who left IMAGIKA in August because his "heart wasn't in it anymore," according to an official statement from the rest of the group. IMAGIKA's fourth album is due in early 2004 through an as-yet-undisclosed label. The band, who were previously signed to Germany's Massacre Records, released their last CD, "And So It Burns", in October 2000.
Finnish black metallers ARTHEMESIA have parted ways with drummer Mor Vethor. "Mor Vethor had to leave the band, because his skills didn't match the requirements of our music, thus all recordings [for our new album] are now cancelled," the band write on their official web site. "We will restart the recording sessions again in the late spring [2004] with our new drummer. And I promise our new drummer will blow your head away (we will inform his name sooner or later, let's keep some secrecy for awhile)! Consider yourselves warned! Due to the postponed studios, the album will be out in October 4th [2004]." The group, whose style is being described in an official press release as "an extremely powerful hybrid of black metal and death/thrash/heavy metal with a touch of classical and dark ambient music," are planning on recording and mixing their upcoming album, "ShamaNatahS - II Describe I Mind", in three different studios (Christslayer, Hellhole and Sonic Pump) before mastering it at Finnvox Studios (NIGHTWISH, STRATOVARIUS, SONATA ARCTICA) with Mika Jussila. Cover artwork for the album will be created by Mike Bohatch (Eyes of Chaos). The complete track listing for the album (in no particular order) is as follows:
01. Mors Principium Est 02. Swampendom 03. Transcendental Mindflow - Into the Cosmos Unknown 04. Uhrikelpoisia Teuraselaimia 05. Death Executed by Complex Actions 06. The Order of the Opposite Force 07. ShamaNatahS 08. Patheme
"ShamaNatahS - II Describe I Mind" will be released through Holland's Karmageddon Media (formerly Hammerheart Records).
Reunited Long Island, New York-based death metallers PYREXIA, who recently signed an exclusive distribution deal with Crash Music, will be entering Sabella Studios in October to record their newest full-length opus, "Cruelty Beyond Submission". A January 2004 release via a partnership between Rex Records (PYREXIA's label) and Deepsend Records is expected.
Finnish melodic death/doom metallers SWALLOW THE SUN, who feature several members of FUNERIS NOCTURNUM, have set "The Morning Never Came" as the title for their debut album, due in November through Firebox Records. "The Morning Never Came" was recorded at Sam's Workshop with producer Sami Kakko. The track listing for the album is as follows:
01. Through Her Silvery Body 02. Deadly Nightshade 03. Out Of This Gloomy Light 04. Swallow 05. Hold This Woe 06. Silence Of The Womb 07. Under The Waves 08. The Morning Never Came
SENTENCED has recorded supporting song for Oulun Karpat, ice hockey team in Oulu. Song is called "Routasydan" and its first ever Sentenced song in Finnish. Song is composed by Miika Tenkula and lyrics are by Sami Lopakka. 'The idea came from Karpat. They wanted us to do a song and same time little bit renew the form supporting songs usually have. First of all we made a demo song that sounded like us and then when they liked it we went straight to the studio', Ville Laihiala tells. 'I'm a hard supporter of Karpat so this is like honor thing', Ville continues. "Routasydan" will be published on CD that contains also previous supporting songs of Karpat. It will be available in early october at Karpat Fan-shop.
DREAM THEATER have revealed that their forthcoming new studio album will be titled "Train Of Thought" and have set a release date of November 11 for the record. The album - the follow-up to 2002's "Six Degrees Of Turbulence" - was produced by guitarist John Petrucci and drummer Mike Portnoy, with mixing duties performed by Kevin 'Caveman' Shirley. "Train Of Thought" will feature the following tracklisting: 01. As I Am 02. This Dying Soul 03. Endless Sacrifice 04. Honor Thy Father 05. Vacant 06. Stream Of Consciousness 07. In The Name Of God
The much-anticipated eight-disc BLACK SABBATH box set, "Black Box: The Complete Original Black Sabbath (1970-1978)", is due on November 4. The collection will feature remastered versions of the band's albums with Ozzy Osbourne behind the mike, as well as a live DVD with previously unseen footage. Retailing for $99.98, the set features the classic albums "Black Sabbath", "Paranoid", "Master of Reality", "Vol. 4", "Sabbath Bloody Sabbath", "Sabotage", "Technical Ecstasy" and "Never Say Die!". The original SABBATH lineup supervised the box set, along with executive producer Sharon Osbourne.
Sweden's CONSTRUCDEAD, the band featuring TERROR 2000 drummer Erik Thyselius, have set "Violadead" as the title for their sophomore album, tentatively due in January through Sound Pollution Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Repent" was recorded and is currently being mixed at Helsingborg's Queenstreet Recording with producer Richard Larsson. The album will be released both in jewel-case and a limited-edition digipack version. The group, who were recently joined by GODSIC frontman Peter Tuthill, were previously signed to Cold Records.
MORBID ANGEL's forthcoming CD, "Heretic", will be released in several different formats, according to the group's label, Earache Records. "Heretic" — due in Europe on September 22 through Earache Records — was recorded and mixed at D.O.W. (Diet Of Worms) studios in Seffner, Florida and was co-produced by the band and longtime front-of-house mixing engineer Juan "Punchy Gonzalez. The album — the group's ninth overall release (including their 1986 "Abominations Of Desolation" demo and the 1996 live album, "Entangled In Chaos") — marks a return to the fold of bassist/vocalist Steve Tucker, who originally left the band in early April 2001 due to "personal and family problems." The following versions of "Heretic" will be available, according to Earache.com: 01. Box set — "Heretic" CD plus an 18-track unreleased "Bonus Levels" CD and free "Heretic" sticker, all housed in Deluxe Box. Available in stores in Germany only, or direct to your door from Earache's webstore. 02. Double Disc Slipcase — "Heretic" CD plus "Bonus Levels" CD housed in slipcase. Available from Earache USA on wholesale basis only. 03. Double Disc — comes with "Bonus Levels" CD. Available in stores everywhere. 04. 12" Vinyl Picture Disc — available from vinyl specialist stores everywhere. 05. Regular Single-Disc CD — available from stores that have no clue about the double-disc edition!
The release date of ICED EARTH's new album, "The Glorious Burden", has been officially pushed back to January 13, 2004 (a day earlier internationally), according to SPV Records. A single containing the tracks "The Reckoning (Don't Tread On Me)", "When The Eagle Cries" (Unplugged), "Valley Forge" and "Hollow Man" will be released on October 27. "The Glorious Burden" is the group's first CD to feature new vocalist Tim Owens (ex-JUDAS PRIEST), who replaced Matt Barlow earlier in the summer. The follow-up to 2001's "Horror Show" features Owens alongside ICED EARTH mainman Jon Schaffer (guitar), Richard Christy (drums, ex-DEATH, CONTROL DENIED), James MacDonough (bass) and Ralph Santolla (guitar, EYEWITNESS, MILLENIUM, ex-DEATH). The complete track listing for "The Glorious Burden" is as follows: 01. Star Spangled Banner 02. Declaration Day 03. When The Eagle Cries 04. The Reckoning (Don't Tread On Me) 05. Attila 06. Red Baron/Blue Max 07. Hollow Man 08. Waterloo 09. Valley Forge 10. Gettysburg (1863) 11. The Devil To Pay 12. Hold At All Costs 13. High Water Mark
Veteran death metallers CANNIBAL CORPSE will be heading back to the studio on September 15 to start the recording process for the follow-up to last year's "Gore Obsessed", due in early 2004 through Metal Blade Records. The band will once again record at Sonic Ranch Studios in Tornillo, Texas with producer Neil Kernon (NEVERMORE, JUDAS PRIEST). More information, including the album title, will be announced shortly.
Gothenburg-based Death/Thrashers WITHIN Y just finished the recordings for their upcoming debut album titled "Extended Mental Dimensions". Tracklisting for "Extended Mental Dimensions": 01. Lost in Solitude 02. God in Silence 03. Remains of a Shattered Illusion 04. Things 05. Injection 06. Face Down 07. Behold 08. Silently Leaving 09. Feeble and Weak 10. Sacred Lies
The album was recorded and mixed during the month August and early September at Meta4Music Studios in Gothenburg, Sweden. Artwork is currently being created by art-wizard Niklas Sundin at Cabin Fever Media. The release for "Extended Mental Dimensions" is scheduled for January 19th, 2004 on Karmageddon Media.
THY MAJESTIE have announced that after four years with label Scarlet Records, the band have parted ways and are now seeking a new deal. In the meantime the band are working on the last few songs of their new album, which they themselves describe as an "historical concept based on Joan Of Arc".
SEETHINGS, the new Swedish band fronted by former DARKANE vocalist Lawrence Mackrory, have posted MP3 clips of three songs from their debut album, "Parallels", due in Europe and Scandinavia on October 27 through Scarlet Records. Check them out: ' ' '
Norwegian black metallers ANCIENT will enter the studio in November to record their new album, tentatively due in early 2004 through Metal Blade Records. The CD will be recorded at Mirage and Alpha-Omega studios and the mixing and mastering will take place at Studio Fredman in Gothenburg, Sweden. The as-yet-untitled follow-up to 2001's "Proxima Centauri" will contain the following cuts, among others: 1. Envision The Beast 2. Fuel The Flames 3. Raping The Children Of Abel 4. Night Visit
An "unmixed" version of NAPALM DEATH's cover of KREATOR's ' has been posted online in MP3 format The track — which is said to be a favorite of NAPALM DEATH guitarist Mitch Harris — comes off the group's upcoming collection of covers, entitled "Leaders Not Followers 2", due in early 2004 through the band's own Feto label. As previously reported, "Leaders Not Followers 2" will include the following cuts: 01. CRYPTIC SLAUGHTER – "Lowlife" 02. OFFENDERS – "Face Down In The Dirt" 03. DEVASTATION – "Devastation" 04. ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT - "Dope Fiend" 05. AGNOSTIC FRONT - "Blind Justice" 06. WEHRMACHT - "Night Of Pain" 07. ANTI CIMEX - "Game Of The Assholes"/"Victims Of A Bomb Raid" 08. SEPULTURA - "Troops Of Doom" 09. INSANITY - "Fire Death Fate" 10. HIRAX - "Hate Fear + Power" 11. DAYGLO ABORTIONS - "Bedtime Story" 12. HELLHAMMER - "Messiah" 13. KREATOR - "Riot Of Violence" 14. DISCHARGE - "War's Not Fairytale" 15. SIEGE - "Conform" 16. MASSACRE - "Clangor Of War" 17. MASTER - "Master" 18. DIE KREUZEN - "I'm Tired"
Norway's SUSPERIA have signead a record deal for threee albums with Tabu Recordings - sublabel of Tuba Records. As previously reported, on 24th of September band will enter a studio to record their new third album, tenatively untiteled "Unlimited". Next year February release is expected.
NECROPHAGIA frontman Killjoy and cult horror actress and singer with band JEZEBEL, Eileen Daly ("Cradle of Fear", "Razor Blade Smile") have agreed to collaborate on a number of music and film projects. To begin with KILLJOY will be remixing and preparing a much darker version of the track "Lector And Bundy" from JEZEBEL's album "Forbidden Fruit", Killjoy comments: "I'm really looking forward to working with Eileen, artistically and vocally she has an extremely unique vibe, in this day and age when most female vocalists' are trying to sound masculine, Eileen grabs the proverbial goat by the horns and injects a much needed dose of "femme fatal" into the scene ... she has the most unlimited potential of anyone I know !!! Eileen definitely has what I call "The Dark Gift". Later this year Killjoy and Eileen Daly are planning to collaborate on some UK horror and gore filming in conjunction with horror maestro Alex Chandon whose directorial work can be seen in numerous CRADLE OF FILTH videos and the blood-soaked feature "Cradle Of Fear". Killjoy and Eileen DALY will also be working on some new NECROPHAGIA songs where Killjoy's and Daly's distinctive vocal styles are expected to create whole new levels of aural mayhem and menace.
New live video tracks from SLAYER "South Of Heaven" and "Angel Of Death" are posted online on ofiicial Dave Lombardo site. Video was shoted in Sweden on Hultsfred Festival 2002. In other news, Dave recently finished recording of the new album by RIP INC. with producer Waldemar Sorychta.
The upcoming TORTURE KILLER album got refused to be printed at the cd-factory !!! Official reason was that the artwork and the lyrical content of the album "For Maggots to Devour" were too shocking. "Fortunately we already found a new cd-factory, so the release will not be delayed any longer than necessary." - report Karmageddon Media (ex-Hammerheart Records). TORTURE KILLER from Finland plays groovy, oldschool Death Metal in the vein of bands like Massacre, Obituary and Bolt Thrower. The band started out as a side-project but has become a real band featuring members of Adramalech and Demigod. Their debut-album "For Maggots To Devour" will be unleashed upon mankind by Karmageddon Media on October 6th. The album was recorded at Popstudio in Loimaa (Finland) together with producer Mika Haapsalo. The complete track listing for "For Maggots To Devour" is as following: 01. Flesh Breaks to Open Wounds 02. Sadistic Violation 03. Motivated to Kill 04. Necrophag 05. Fuck Them When They Bleed 06. No Time to Bleed 07. Torture of Death 08. Gore Terror 09. Strangulation
ANATHEMA will release their new album, "A Natural Disaster", in November trough Music For Nations Records. Follow uop to "A Fine Day to Exit" was recorded and mixed at Parkgate Studios (Hastings, England) except two tracks, which were mixed in Nottingam at Electric Mayhem. Producer is Dan Turner, and artwork by Travis Smith. Tracklist:
1. Harmonium 2. Balance 3. Closer 4. Are You There? 5. Childhood Dream 6. Pulled Under 7. A Natural Disaster 8. Flying 9. Electricity 10. Violence
Two songs will be instrumental, the total length - 55 minutes.
Brand new song by EIDOLON, "Demoralized", posted online. It is from band's new album "Apostles Of Defiance", due to out on 6th October through Metal Blade Records. Tracklist is following: 01. Scream From Within 02. Volcanic Earth 03. Twisted Morality 04. Demoralized 05. The Test 06. The Will To Remain 07. Apostles Of Defiance 08. Pull The Trigger 09. Apathy For A Dying World
Swedish death metallers ANATA finished work on their new full-length album "Under A Stone With No Inscription", which will be released early 2004 through Earache Records. Tracklist: 01. Shackled To Guilt 02. A Problem Yet To Be Solved 03. Entropy Within 04. Dance To The Song Of Apathy 05. Sewerages Of The Mind 06. Built On Sand 07. Under The Debris 08. The Drowning 09. Leaving The Spirit Behind 10. Any Kind Of Magic Or Miracle
Finland's "epic heathen metallers" MOONSORROW have signed a deal with Spikefarm (part of Spinefarm Records). First release for new label will be re-release of debut album "Suden Uni", with bonus track "Tulkaapa Aijat!" (NORDMAN "Kom Nu Gubbar" cover) and DVD with two promo videos and live video from festival Tuska 2003. Album also will have new artwork by Niklas Sundin (IN FLAMES, ARCH ENEMY, DARK TRANQUILLITY) and will be released on 8th of December. MOONSORROW will record their new album only next year.
Folk metal act SUBWAY TO SALLY (Germany) will release new album, "Engelskrieger" through Metal Blade on 6th of October, and Metal Blade will ditribute it on whole territory of Europe, except Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Spain, Greece and BeNeLux.
Germany-based progressiv power metallers SYMPHORCE, featured vocalist Andy B. Franck (BRAINSTORM) and guitarist Cedric Dupont (FREEDOM CALL), are going to record a new album this month. CD, tenatively entitled "Twice Second", will be recorded at House Of Music studio in Winterbach, Germany with legendary producer Achiem Keller (BRAINSTORM, PRIMAL FEAR). Some tracks name are known: "Fallen...", "Ignored By The System", "Two Seconds To Live" and "Turn Away". CD is due to out in January 2004.
PAGAN REIGN have already mastered and mixed their newest album "Otbleski Slavy I Vozrozhdeniye Bylogo Velichiya". It was recorded at CDM records. Release date is 10th of September this year through Sound Age productions. Tracklist:
UPCOMING KARMAGEDDON MEDIA RELEASES IN OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2003
06.10.2003 TORTURE KILLER - For Maggots to Devour CD NOCTURNUS - The Nocturnus Demos digi-CD
20.10.2003 AETERNUS - Beyond the Wandering Moon CD (remastered/new artwork/bonustracks) AETERNUS - .....And so the Night Became CD (remastered/new artwork/bonustracks) AETERNUS - Shadows of Old CD (remastered/new artwork/bonustracks) AETERNUS - Ascension of Terror CD (remastered/new artwork/bonustracks)
03.11.2003 MORIFADE - Domin<>tion digi-CD/CD TRIBUTE TO POSSESSED - Seven Gates of Horror digi-CD
17.11.2003 TRIBUTE TO EURONYMOUS - Nordic Metal CD NILE - In The Beginning digi-CD DIMMU BORGIR/OLD MAN'S CHILD - Sons of Satan Gather for Attack CD SEPTIC FLESH - Sumerian Daemons CD
Upcoming early 2004 : new killer albums of DISMEMBER, CRUACHAN, ARTHEMESIA, WITHIN Y and many more !!!
Swedish melodic power metallers MORIFADE recently finished the recordings for their new album. The album is titled "Domi<>nation" and the complete tracklisting is as follows: 01. Parallels 02. A Silent Revolution 03. The Second Coming 04. Words I Never Speak 05. Clarity (Fragments of a Dream) 06. Panopticon 07. The Rising 08. Erase 09. Memorys End 10. Lost Within A Shade (video track)
"Domi<>Nation" was recorded and mixed in Los Angered Recording Studio with Andy La Rocque. The vocals and choirs were recorded in Monogram Recording Studio. Release of the new album is scheduled for November 3rd on Karmageddon Media.
Russian label Oskorei Music is proud to present a wonderful dark ambient split VINTERRIKET "Von Eiskristallen...und dem ewigen Chaos" from Germany and Russia's RIKKET "Riket Av Evig Skogen". Release is so close! 8th of September! Don't miss, because only 300 hand numbered copies are going to be out. Tracklist:
VINTERRIKET 1. Einsamkeit 2. Eisreflektionen RIKKET 3. Vi Staar I En Sirkel Av Svart 4. V Chern' Lesa Zimnego Tayas' 5. The Mourning
Polish label Agonia Records has signed a deal with Swedish Black brigade ARMAGEDDA, featured Graav (Vocals and Strings) and A. (Strings). Second full-length CD "Only True Believers" will be released at the end of September Company Beyond Productions will release vinyl version of album.
Third album by Italy's blackers HANDFUL OF HATE, entitled "ViceCrown", which will appear on 27th of October through Code666 Records. First 666 copies will be released as coolest limited edition in leather box. Artwork for album made artist Fabio (also made artwork for ARKHON INFAUSTUS, ABORYM, KHONKRA).
World wide known deathers MONSTROSITY have finalized tracklist for brand new album "Rise To Power". It was recorded in Audio Hammer studios in Sanford Florida with sound-engineer Jason Soucof. Conquest Music Inc. will release CD on 23rd of September this year. Final track listing:
01. The Exordium 02. Awaiting Armageddon 03. Wave Of Annihilation 04. The Fall Of Eden 05. Chemical Reaction 06. A Casket For The Soul 07. Rise To Power 08. Visions Of Violence 09. From Wrath To Ruin 10. Abysmal Gods 11. Shadow Of Obliteration
World wide known label Hammerheart Records changed name to Karmageddon Media. About these changes from Guido Heijnens (co-owner of Hammerheart Records): "After months of thinking, talking, evaluating plans and contracts HAMMERHEART RECORDS have decided to call it a day ! But we are not simply leaving all this behind... how could we ever? Both owners Peter van Ool and Guido Heijnens have decided to re-start a new label under the name KARMAGEDDON MEDIA ! Of course with the same quality and impact as Hammerheart Records used to have. Why? We simply got a bit tired of some of the things happening in the music-industry, especially the attitude of some people was too much for us, we had to change things drastically or stopping was the only option. We ran into problems and what I would call "anti-social" behaviour too often and frequently. This new label is done in very close co-operation with PLASTIC HEAD DISTRIBUTION, who will exclusively distribute KARMAGEDDON MEDIA starting October 1st 2003. We feel secure and positive that under the wings of our big independent brothers working at PLASTIC HEAD DISTRIBUTION we get more chances to develop and grow in a steady and reliable way. The artists and the catalogue of HAMMERHEART RECORDS are transferred to KARMAGEDDON MEDIA and we will soon inform everyone on our release-schedule. Be prepared for new killer albums by DISMEMBER, CRUACHAN, MORIFADE, TORTURE KILLER etc."
Church and city government have forbidden the performance of ANCIENT CEREMONY at Summerbreeze Open Air (one of Europe's biggest Metal festivals) because of the band's Satanic and blasphemous attitude! Promoters were even set under pressure by getting told the whole event was cancelled if the band was allowed to play so that the organizers had no other chance than taking them from the billing. This scandal is a fist into the face of the entire Metal scene and neither band nor management are willing to accept this cancellation without fighting against it. Of course ANCIENT CEREMONY will continue following their Satanic ethics consequently and are almost "proud" that they are the only controversial act that was chosen as "enemy" by these radical catholics - but there is no legal base for the behaviour from church and authorities so that ANCIENT CEREMONY hope for massive support from fans and media in fighting against this censorship!
STRATOVARIUS have posted a clip from the song ' from upcoming "Elements Pt.2" CD. The clip is almost 3 minutes long and it is with good quality. As previously announced "Elements Pt.2" will be released on 27th of October through Nuclear Blast.
At the ' the first offical soundfiles are now posted online, to give you a first impression of the upcoming album "Metal Discharge" - More files will follow soon. Nuclear Blast will release this new Thrash Metal Masterpiece worldwide on the 22. of September 2003. The brand new videoclip of the track "Desecrators" will be posted nnext week.
New NIGHTWISH DVD "End Of Innocence" will be released in September through Spinefarm Records. It will include: 1. The history of NIGHTWISH by Tuomas and Jukka
2. Music clips: 1. End Of All Hope 2. Dead To The World 3. 10th Man Down 4. Slaying The Dreamer 5. Over The Hills And Far Away 6. Sleeping Sun 7. Over The Hills And Far Away (promo) 8. Bless The Child (promo) 9. End Of All Hope (promo !!!) live from SUMMERBREEZE festival 2002, 5.1 sound
Denmark's RAUNCHY have set the tentative track listing for their sophomore album, due in early 2004 through Nuclear Blast Records. The as-yet-untitled follow-up to last year's highly acclaimed "Velvet Noise" was recorded and mixed at producer Jacob Hansen's (INVOCATOR) Hansen Studios in Ribe, Denmark. 12 songs were reportedly tracked for the CD, including a cover of FAITH NO MORE's "From Out Of Nowhere", which will be used as a bonus track for the album's Scandinavian edition. The tentative track listing for the effort is as follows: 01. Join The Scene 02. I Get What I See 03. Summer Of Overload 04. Watch Out 05. Nine/Five 06. Show Me Your Real Darkness 07. Confusion Bay 08. The Devil 09. Insane 10. Morning Rise And A Friday Night 11. Bleeding Pt. 2 12. From Out Of Nowhere (FAITH NO MORE cover) (Scandinavian bonus)
Nuclear Blast is very proud to announce that the legendary Bay Area Thrashers of EXODUS have signed a worldwide deal with the label! Their upcoming new album "Tempo of the Damned" was recorded by Andy Sneap and will be released on the 2nd of February and will be a tribute to Paul Baloff ( Feb 2nd is the 2 year anniversary of Paul passing )
THEATRE OF TRAGEDY have parted ways with Liv Kristine. Liv said, that she didn't know anything about this decision and got this news not from group. "I'm so surprised and shoked. Nobody from group's members phoned me to inform about this decision. I only got an e-mail, where it goes, that I have parted ways with band. This is not my decision, and I have never left our fans!" said Liv Kristine.
MOONSPELL have posted brand new song online. It's ' from new band's upcoming album "The Antidote", which will be released 19th September trough Century Media Records. CD was recorded at Finnvox Studios (Helsinki, Finland) with producer Hiili Hiilesmaa (H.I.M., SENTENCED, AMORPHIS).
New CD by Germans HARMONY DIES, "Impact", out now on Morbid Records, features 11 new tracks of fast and brutal Death Metal. Coming soon Split with the Greek Grinders Fleshart.
New release on Nice to Eat You records will be new CD of GOMORRHA from Germany called "Sexual Pervesity by Autopsy"...brutal death metal in vein of Severe Torture, Dying Fetus ... guttural vocals, sick lyrics,crushing drums...most brutal music from Germany. Out in September 2003!
More news on the upcoming boxset. The box will be titled "15-Year Killing Spree" and is scheduled for a November 3rd release. The complete track listing for "15-Year Killing Spree" is: Disc One - Best of Volume 1
1. Shredded Humans 2. Put them to Death 3. Born in a Casket 4. A Skull Full of Maggots 5. Gutted 6. Covered With Sores 7. Vomit the Soul 8. Hammer Smashed Face 9. Addicted to Vaginal Skin 10. The Cryptic Stench 11. Staring Through the Eyes of the Dead 12. Stripped, Raped and Strangled 13. The Pick-Axe Murders 14. The Bleeding 15. Zero the Hero
Disc Two - Best of Volume 2
1. Devoured by Vermin 2. Disfigured 3. Monolith 4. I Will Kill You 5. Sentenced to Burn 6. Gallery of Suicide 7. Dead Human Collection 8. The Spine Splitter 9. Pounded Into Dust 10. I Cum Blood- Live 11. Fucked With A Knife (live) 12. Unleashing the Bloodthirsty (live) 13. Meathook Sodomy (live) 14. Savage Butchery 15. Pit of Zombies 16. Sanded Faceless 17. Systematic Elimination
Disc Three - Previously Unreleased Material
'89 Demo: 1. A Skull Full of Maggots 2. The Undead Will Feast 3. Scattered Remains, Splattered Brains 4. Put Them to Death 5. Bloody Chunks
"Created To Kill" Sessions: 6. Unburied Horror 7. Mummified in Barbed Wire 8. Gallery of the Obscene 9. To Kill Myself 10. Bloodlands 11. Puncture Wound Massacre 12. Devoured by Vermin
"Gallery of Suicide" Demo: 13. Chambers of Blood 14. Dismembered and Molested 15. Gallery of Suicide 16. Unite the Dead 17. Crushing the Despised 18. Headless
Cover Songs: 19. Bethany Home (A Place to Die) 20. Endless Pain 21. Behind Bars
Disc Four - DVD
1st Live Cannibal Corpse Show 1989 1. Scattered Remains, Splattered Brains 2. The Undead Will Feast 3. Escape the Torment 4. Bloody Chunks 5. Enter at Your Own Risk 6. Put Them to Death 7. A Skull Full of Maggots
"Butchered at Birth" Studio Footage 1991 8. Drum Sessions & Bass Guitar Overdub
CANNIBAL CORPSE Eats Moscow Alive 1993 9. Shredded Humans 10. The Cryptic Stench 11. Meathook Sodomy 12. Edible Autopsy 13. I Cum Blood 14. Gutted 15. Entrails Ripped From a Virgin's Cunt 16. Beyond the Cemetery 17. A Skull Full of Maggots
Live at The Palace in Hollywood, CA 2002 18. From Skin to Liquid 19. Savage Butchery 20. Devoured by Vermin 21. Stripped, Raped and Strangled 22. Disposal of the Body 23. Pounded into Dust 24. Addicted to Vaginal Skin 25. Meathook Sodomy 26. Pit of Zombies 27. Hammer Smashed Face
Brutal-texhnical-shyzoid piece of extremal music with two crazy vocalers present French band ZUBROWSKA. Debut album, "One On Six", includes 12 tracks, musically wide from brutal death metal a-la CRYPTOPSY, DYING FETUS, CEPHALIC CARNAGE to metalcore a-la DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN and CONVERGE. CD will be released on 15th of September.
France's satanic death/black group VORKREIST will release their new album "Sabbathical Flesh Possession" on 15th of September. Their music is mix of old school death metal in spirit of ANGEL CORPSE and DIABOLIC and some black influenses, as IMMORTAL and early IMPALED NAZARENE. Tracklist:
1. Dead And Devoted 2. Purified In Hellfire 3. Tread On The Cross 4. At The Side Of The Beast 5. Sabbathical Flesh Possession 6. ThornTorment the Impaled 7. Infernal Communion 8. Iconophobia 9. Dawn Of Terror
New album of Finnish viking metallers EINHERJER, "Blot", will be released on 15th September through new Norwegian label Tabu Recordings. Tracklist: 01. Einherjermarsjen 02. Ironbound 03. Dead Knight's Rite 04. Wolf-Age 05. The Eternally Damned 06. Ware Her Venom 07. Hammar Haus 08. Starkad 09. Ride the Gallows 10. Ingen Grid 11. Berserkergang 12. Venomtongue
28 August Displeased Records will release new album of band MANEGARM, "Dodsfard". Tracklisting:
01. Intro 02. I Evig Tid 03. Ravenous 04. Agirs Vrede 05. Dodsfard 06. Fimbultrollet 07. Daudr 08. Vrede 09. Pagan War 10. Ursjalens Visdom 11. Gillesvisan CD was recorded in Studio Underground in Sweden. It's war viking metal.
Nuclear Blast released coolest DVD - 2xDVD "Monsters Of Metal Vol. 1". So, what we have... DVD 1:
1. MANOWAR - Warriors Of The World United 2. HAMMERFALL - Hearts On Fire 3. HELLOWEEN - Just A Little Sign 4. ANTHRAX - Safe Home 5. SOILWORK - Rejection Role 6. BLIND GUARDIAN - The Bard's Song 7. FARMER BOYS - Here Comes The Pain 8. PRIMAL FEAR - Armaggedon 9. TIAMAT - Vote For Love 10. IN FLAMES - Trigger 11. STRATOVARIUS - Eagleheart 12. SONATA ARCTICA - Wolf & Raven 13. MORBID ANGEL - Immortal Rites 14. PARADISE LOST - Say Just Words 15. IRON MAIDEN - Run To The Hills 16. OOMPH! - Supernova 17. SEVENDUST - Live Again 18. CRADLE OF FILTH - Her Ghost In The Fog 19. STRAPPING YOUNG LAD - Relentless 20. SEPULTURA - Bullet The Blue Sky 21. DARKANE - Innocence Gone 22. DAVID SHANKLE GROUP - Ashes To Ashes 23. LACUNA COIL - Heaven's A Lie 24. ENTOMBED - I For An Eye 25. CIRCLE II CIRCLE - Watching In Silence 26. THE HAUNTED - Bury Your Dead 27. EMPEROR - The Loss And Curse Of Reverance 28. KATAKLYSM - Shadows And Dust 29. CHILDREN OF BODOM - Everytime I Die 30. THERION - Summernight City 31. MASTERPLAN - Enlighten me 32. ATROCITY - Taste Of Sin 33. CATHEDRAL - Hopkins (The Witchfinder General)
DVD 2:
1. DEATHSTARS - Synthetic Generation 2. MESHUGGAH - Rational Gaze 3. MNEMIC - Ghost 4. RHAPSODY - Power Of The Dragonflame 5. JUDAS PRIEST - Lost And Found 6. DIMMU BORGIR - Puritana 7. BIOHAZARD - Sellout 8. THE GATHERING - Leaves 9. PUNGENT STENCH - Viva La Muerte 10. DANZIG - Five Finger Crawl 11. AMORPHIS - Alone 12. KREATOR - Violent Revolution 13. THUNDERSTONE - Virus 14. CARCASS - No Love Lost 15. CREMATORY - Tears Of Time 16. BLUDGEON - Stained In Blood 17. SINISTER - Leviathan
Except all these you'll get audio, photogallery and many many more...
Some news from recently tooked place METAL HEADS' MISSION IV open air fest. List of bands, which tooked part, differes from earlier announced. So, on fest played: Day 1
1. Who I Am (Dnipropetrovs'k, Ukraine) 2. Rikoshet (Minsk, Belarus) 3. Rest in Pain (Moscow, Russia) 4. Fatal Energy (Ukraine) 5. Globalilsed Abstruse (Burshtyn, Ukraine) 6. Datura (Kirovskoye, Ukraine) 7. Rasta (Homel, Belarus) 8. Blast (Kharkiv, Ukraine)
TARTHARIA's "A Secret Device" release date is 28 October 2003 through Crash Music Inc. Debut TARTHARIA material recorded and mixed at ASTIA Studio with Anssi Kippo as Sound Producer (Children Of Bodom, Impaled Nazarene, To/Die/For) and mastered at Finnvox Studio with Mika Jussilla (April, 2003). The debut is entitled "A Secret Device" and musically strikes the black/death line with tender keyboards.
New album of Moscow-based black collective RADIGOST soon will be release on Russian label Stygian Crypt Productions. The recording of "For the honor of our truth... For the honor of our faith" is already finished. One song - ' you can download ' . Tracklist: 1. For the Honor of Our Truth… For the Honor of Our Faith... 2. V Serdtse Bitvy (In the Heart of Battle) 3. The Sacred Aim of Humanity 4. Maestus 5. Puti Bogov (Paths of the Gods) 6. Thousands Years of Darkness 7. Woodlands 8. Nebesnoye Plamia (Celestial Flame) 9. Blood and Grief
Nikolaev(Ukraine)-based grind project SAPONIFICATION, featured two members of brutal death band LIFE DENIAL Max and Vaal, recently recorded their debut album "Paraxysm". Almost 30 min. of brutallest music, you could ever heared. "It is the brutallest 2003' Ukraine's release!" - says Max - "It featured 11 braingrinding and awfully ugly tracks. If you've heared DISGORGE or something like that - that's pops!" We've got the permission from band to post some tracks for downloading: ' , 1:21 - 1.3 MB ' , 4:00 - 3.7 MB ' , 0:04 - 3.6 MB
New album of Finland's IMPALED NAZARENE, "All That You Fear", with total running time 42:45. will be released world wide on 3rd of November 2003. Recorded at Astia studio with Anssi Kippo and mixed at Finnvox studio by Mikko Karmila. Final track listing is: 01. Kohta Ei Naura Enaa Jeesuskaan 02. Armageddon Death Squad 03. The Endless War 04. The Maggot Crusher 05. Curse Of The Dead Medusa 06. Suffer In Silence 07. Halo Of Flies 08. Recreate Thru Hate 09. Goat Seeds Of Doom 10. Even More Pain 11. Tribulation Hell 12. Urgent Need To Kill 13. All That You Fear
DIMMU BORGIR's video for new song "Progenies of The Great Apocalypse", ' . This track is from new album, "Death Cult Armageddon", due on September, through Nuclear Blast Records.
Tim Owens finally decided to become permanent vocalist of ICED EARTH. Jon Shaffer posted a message on band's official website:
"Greetings! Well everyone, it is official. Tim Owens is the new frontman and lead vocalist of Iced Earth and I couldn't be happier! There is no doubt that fate has played a big part in our lives in these last few months and I truly beleive that this is the way it was meant to be. Everything happens for a reason!! Tim did an outstanding job on this record. In 5 very relaxed days he nailed the parts, and I mean NAILED them, and I don't think I've ever laughed as much and had as much fun in the studio before. He is definitely bringing new life into the band and the future looks very bright for us as a team."
Hard Rock festival COREFEST - follower of THE GREAT COMMANDMENT FEST (since 1998, 28 festival acts, took part 58 bands from Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, Poland, Slovaky, biggest: September 2000 ("Zelenyy teatr", Hydropark, 1100 persons), October 2001 ("Zelenyy teatr", Hydropark, 1500 persons) and MONSTERS of ROCK.RU (July 2002, show-park "Obolon", 1800 persons). First COREFEST will present elite of Ukrainian heavy music - groups TE DEUM, CONQUEST, BORSHCH, INFERNO, special guests - legendary Austria's band PUNGENT STENCH, chill-out in style dark and night marathon with young groups from Ukraine, Russia, Belarus. Before the concert will be press-conferention for mass-media representants. Organized by record-label COREZONE. Main participants:
PUNGENT STENCH - Headliners of fest. Legendary band from Austria, "fathers" of European gore metal - most skandal style in extremal music of 90s. At first time in CIS! TE DEUM - For today absolut leaders of Ukrainian heavy metal scene. Band N1. Cult. BORSHH - Super-trio of musicians from VV and TNMK. Angry hard rock with elements of psycho-punk and hopak. 100% sound terror. Fight "wall vs wall" between RAMMSTEIN and MOTORHEAD. CONQUEST - Coolest melodic power metal from Kharkiv. Debut CD "Endless Power" (2002) - absolut recordbraker of independent "metal" sales in Russia. 2003 - album reissues in Brazil though biggest local metal label Megahard Records and get 18th place in Latin America metal charts. Concert superhit - cover song of V.Ivasyuk song "Chervona Ruta". INFERNO - Patriarchs of Ukrainian gothic metal. With performance at COREFEST finish mini-tour in support of new album "Ne Angely" ("Not Angels"). Erotic show in red-black colours.
Media-partners: STB, ENTER, BIZ TV, MOLOKO, X3M, AFISHA, POWER FM, RADIO ROCKS, Russian and Belarussian special mus. press.
Links: PUNGENT STENCH - ' INFERNO - ' BORSHCH - ' TE DEUM - ' THE GREAT COMMANDMENT FEST - '
Finland-based blackers AZAGHAL finished recording their MCD. "Kyy" will be released in October through Norway's Aftermath Music. Debut album, entitled "Perkeleen Luoma", due in long winter. Videoclip for song "Kyy" will be included to forthcoming CD.
"Pascal and Alex are no longer members of SINISTER. Ron v/d Polder is now our new permanent guitarplayer, he wrote "Cross The Styx", and also the latest album "Savage Or Grace". We already are working on the next album for Sinister called "Heaven Termination".", according to post on band's ofiicial website. In other news Ron, Aad and Rachel starded a few months ago their project band called INFINITED HATE its sick death metal, they already have all there songs finished. When it will come out and on which label we will youtell later. Tracklist: 1. Haunting Noises 2. Bound By Hate 3. Arrival Of Doom 4. Dreadful Gore 5. Built For The Kill 6. Primative Butchery 7. Tribute To The Dead 8. Terminal Conclusion
DEICIDE presented cover picture for their forthcoming album "Scars Of The Crucifix", due late 2003 through Earache Records. Group is currently recording this album.
Brutal grinding death metal brigade EVISCIUM from Pittsburg (USA) will release through Polish label Still Dead Productions 6-tracks MCD "Underneath The Buried", where 3 songs from demo, remasteres with new vocal, and 3 new. Tracklist: 1. Buzzard Feeding Frenzy 2. Underneath The Buried 3. Relapse Into Darkness 4. Cannibal Jihad 5. Ribspreader 6. Unmarked Grave
Band featuers guitarist/vocalist Mark Mastro (ex-ROTTREVORE), guitarist John Scagline, drummer Jared Altamare and on bass Sharon Baskovsky (DERKETA).
Changes of line-up in Italy's GRAVEWORM. Guitarist Stefan Unterpertinger left the collective, he was replaced by Lukas, who earlier helped the band on bass (in last tour with AGATHODAIMON). New bassist became Harry, who was earlier guitarist of group, and also was one of the fouders of GRAVEWORM.
HYPOCRISY currently are working hardly, recording their new album. Workname - "The Arrival" and according to Peter Tagtren music will be the mix of 1996's "Abducted" nd 1999's "Hypocrisy". There aren't names of songs, because they will be think up during the recording, musicians even don't know, how many compositions will be on album. Album is tenatively will be released in January/February 2004. In other news, HYPOCRISY will be on North American tour in November with DIMMU BORGIR, CHILDREN OF BODOM, NEVERMORE, where band HYPOCRISY will play one or some new songs.
Norway's MADDER MORTEM have parted ways with bassist Paul (Pal Mozart Bjorke) and guitarist Eirik Ulvo Langnes. "Paul wanted to quit in order to be able to concentrate on his son 100% and also live a more 'normal' life compared to the rather 'abnormal' MADDER lifestyle," according to a post on the band's web site, while "with Eirik, we felt that it didn't work out like it should musically anymore, and it seemed like he didn't feel as comfortable playing in this band as much as the rest of us." Paul's final performance with the group took place at Elveblest in Arnes on Saturday, August 16. The gig also featured the live debut of the band's as-yet-undisclosed new guitarist. MADDER MORTEM, whose last album, "Deadlands", was released in Europe in October 2002 through Century Media Records, are "alive and already kicking it with a new guitarist and bass player, writing songs for the [group's] upcoming album. We have a new groove within the band and we're going to give the next album 150% priority until we'e done with it! "The names of the new guitar player and bassist will be announced shortly, we just want to get some photos taken, so that you can see their incredibly handsome faces."
FISSION, the new "melodic thrash" band featuring BORKNAGAR frontman Andreas Hedlund (a.k.a. Vintersorg) and VINTERSORG live session drummer Benny "Hagge" Hagglund, have inked a deal with Napalm Records for the release of their debut album, tentatively due in early 2004. "It's heavy and hard, still harmonious and melodic," says Vintersorg. "I'm very impressed with the songs we've done so far." As previously reported, BORKNAGAR are hard at work at Toproom and Fagerborg Studios with producer Borge Finstad (MAYHEM, SOLEFALD) recording the follow-up to 2001's "Empiricism", due in early 2004 through Century Media Records.
Danish death-thrashers HATESPHERE have posted a couple of video clips from their recent show at KB in Malmo, Sweden. Check them out: ' ' Also available are several live photos from a gig at Zeche Carl in Essen, Germany.
Sweden's CENTINEX have revised the track listing for their forthcoming album, "Decadence - Prophecies Of Cosmic Chaos", tentatively due in early 2004 through Candlelight Records. The complete track listing for "Decadence - Prophecies Of Cosmic Chaos" is as follows: 1. Arrival Of The Spectrum Obscure 2. Misanthropic Darkzone 3. Hollowsphere 4. Target: Dimension XII 5. Deathstar Unmasked 6. A Dynasty Of Obediance (Instrumental) 7. Mechanical Future 8. Cold Deep Supremacy 9. New World Odyssey In other news, CENTINEX have parted ways with drummer Kennet Englund and are currently seeking a replacement. No reason was given for Englund's departure.
TIAMAT have finalized the track listing for their eighth studio album, "Prey", due on October 27 through Century Media Records. The self-produced CD, which is being described as one of mainman Johan Edlund's most personal recorded statements to date, was mixed and mastered at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Finland. Although it is not a concept album, there is a strong unifying theme running through each of the 13 tracks. The complete track listing for "Prey" is as follows: 01. Cain 02. Ten Thousand Tentacles 03. Wings Of Heaven 04. Love In Chains 05. Divided 06. Carry Your Cross And I'll Carry Mine 07. Triple Cross 08. Light In Extension 09. Prey 10. The Garden Of Heathen 11. Clovenhoof 12. Nihil 13. The Pentagram
THEATRE OF TRAGEDY singer Liv Kristine Espenaes Krull has teamed up with members of the German band ATROCITY (fronted by Liv's husband Alexander Krull) in a brand new group called LEAVES' EYES. The music of LEAVES' EYES is "based on the wonderful voice of Liv and beautiful melodic arrangements," according to a post on Kristine's web site. "The atmospheric songs are based on a lyrical concept in which a fascinating and mystical love story is told." LEAVES' EYES recently spent time at Alex's Mastersound studios in Stuttgart/Fellbach, Germany recording their first original songs, to be released in late 2003/early 2004 through an as-yet-undetermined label. In addition to THEATRE OF TRAGEDY and LEAVES' EYES, Liv is currently involved in a pop project dubbed simply LIV KRISTINE. Two MP3 clips recently produced by Alex at Mastersound studios are available for download from Kristine's web site. Check them out: ' '
Sweden's DARK TRANQUILLITY have announced the details of their forthcoming DVD, "Live Damage", due on September 29 through Century Media. The main feature on the 195-minute disc will be a live show that was recorded at Krzemionki Studio TVP in Krakow, Poland on October 7, 2002. Also included will be a lot of extra and bonus features, such as "bootleg" footage filmed at Zeche Carl in Essen, Germany on November 13, 2002, Gagarin Club, Athens, Greece on October 20, 2002, and La Locomotive in Paris, France on November 19, 2002. Additionally, the disc will contain two video clips ("Monochromatic Stains", "ThereIn"), a fully animated menu, an interview with vocalist Mikael Stanne (28 minutes), band biography and individual members' profiles
Portugal's MOONSPELL have completed work on the video for "Everything Invaded" with director Tiago Guedes, who had previously worked with the group on the clip for "Nocturna" (off 2001's "Darkness And Hope"). Check out pictures from the shoot: ' ' ' "Shot on location in Meco, Sesimbra, by the sea and the desolate countryside in Portugal, the storyline intent was to create a trailer for a classic B series horror movie, reflecting also the convergence between the single edit and the full album song," the band write on their official web site. "Zarabatan, the team of directors, master this purpose with horrific and occult excellence and we can not wait for the video to penetrate your eyelids and perfurate through the fear which fills your brain."
IMPERIA, the new band featuring former TRAIL OF TEARS singer Helena Iren Michaelsen and GOD DETHRONED drummer Arien van Weesenbeek, have signed a deal with Cold Blood Industries (via the label's new Ebony Tears atmospheric/gothic metal imprint). The band, who are based in Holland, have reportedly written 80 minutes of material and will enter the studio shortly to record their debut album, tentatively due in early 2004. Check out pictures of Helena: ' '
Australian black/death/thrash ensemble ATOMIZER have finalized the track listing for their third studio album, "The Only Weapon Of Choice (13 Odes To Power, Decimation and Conquest)", due in Australia in late September. 13 tracks were recorded for the CD, which has a playing time of roughly 45 minutes. The album will be mixed over the next week by Astennu (ex-DIMMU BORGIR, CARPE TENEBRUM) and will be mastered at Crystal Mastering studio before the month's end. Tracklist: 01. Power, Not Participation 02. And The Hunt Starts Again 03. When I Die, I Wanna Die Violently 04. The Campaign 05. The War That Never Ended 06. The Only Weapon Of Choice 07. Isolation 08. One Man's Failure 09. So Terrified, Yet So In Control 10. Join The Blackheart Reich 11. For Blackness Absolute 12. Sometimes They Hear The Bullet 13. The Fog Of War
German ambient/gothic metallers DESPAIRATION have finished recording their fourth full-length album, "Music For The Night", for a November release through Holland's DVS Records. The band will enter X-Ton-Studio next week to master the effort, which will contain 18 songs and around 80 minutes of playing time. A record-release party is planned for October 30 at Rockwerk in Hof, Germany, featuring appearances by LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE, EWIGHEIM and an as-yet-undisclosed special guest. The complete track listing for the album is as follows: 01. Music For The Night 02. Drift 03. Phantastronaut 04. River Of Perdition 05. Underground Poetry 06. Madrigal 07. L'avion Ivre 08. Asteroid YB5 09. Firebird 10. Moondrawn Awakening 11. Proteus 12. Zeitgeist 13. April Mourning 14. Song Of The Nightingale 15. Nuit En Enfer 16. Colourado Mindtrip 17. Space Sound Park 18. Penelope
Norway's SUSPERIA will enter the studio on September 24 to begin recording their third full-length album, tentatively titled "Unlimited". The band, who split with Nuclear Blast Records late last year, have struck up a new deal "with an interesting label," according to a post on the band's web site. "It will be made official, who and what, once all papers are signed."
Sweden's DIMENSION ZERO have parted ways with ex-IN FLAMES Glenn Ljungstrom and are currently seeking a replacement. No reason was given for Ljungstrom's departure. As previously reported, DIMENSION ZERO — who feature in their ranks IN FLAMES guitarist Jesper Stromblad (on bass), ex-MARDUK vocalist Jocke Gothberg, LUCIFERION/DIABOLIQUE drummer Hasse Nilsson, and PATHOS guitarist Daniel Antonsson — will shortly reissue their original EP, "Penetrations From The Lost World", along with two previously-unreleased songs and five live tracks from their Japanese tour in May 2002. The album will come with a new artwork and layout. DIMENSION ZERO recently completed work on their sophomore full-length album, "This is Hell", for a September release through Sweden's Regain Records. The CD — the band's first to feature Antonsson — was recorded at Phlat Planet studios in Gothenburg, Sweden with producer/IN FLAMES frontman Anders Friden. The tentative track listing for "This Is Hell" is as follows: 01. Intro 02. Amygdala 03. Blood On The Streets04. Dimension Zero 05. Di'i Minores 06. Immaculate 07. Killing My Sleep 08. Into & Out Of Subsistence 09. The Final Destination 10. This Light
HAMMERFAL have cancelled their appearence at Derby's Bloodstock Festival, after guitarist Oscar Dronjak crashed his motorcycle on August 10. Dronjak was left with two fractures on his left arm after the incident.
A 50-minute audio documentary of the history of NAPALM DEATH — as told in their own words by former drummer Mick Harris and bassist Shane Embury — ' . As previously reported, NAPALM DEATH's upcoming collection of covers, entitled "Leaders Not Followers 2", is due before the end of the year through the band's own Feto label. The complete track listing for the effort is as follows: 1. CRYPTIC SLAUGHTER – Lowlife 2. OFFENDERS – Face Down In The Dirt 3. DEVASTATION – Devastation 4. ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT - Dope Fiend 5. AGNOSTIC FRONT - Blind Justice 6. WEHRMACHT - Night Of Pain 7. ANTI CIMEX - Game Of The Assholes/Victims Of A Bomb Raid 8. SEPULTURA - Troops Of Doom 9. INSANITY - Fire Death Fate 10. HIRAX - Hate Fear + Power 11. DAYGLO ABORTIONS - Bedtime Story 12. HELLHAMMER - Messiah 13. KREATOR - Riot Of Violence 14. DISCHARGE - War's Not Fairytale 15. SIEGE - Conform 16. MASSACRE - Clangor Of War 17. MASTER - Master 18. DIE KREUZEN - I'm Tired
STRATOVARIUS vocalist Timo Kotipelto has completed the songwriting process for his second solo album with only "some lyrics [left] to be written," according to a post on his web site. Timo will enter the studio in September to begin recording the as-yet-untitled follow-up to last year's "Waiting For The Dawn" album (issued under the KOTIPELTO banner), due in early 2004 through Century Media Records. The recording lineup for the album will be more or less "the same" as that on the debut, which featured contributions from Mike Romeo (guitars, SYMPHONY X), Roland Grapow (guitars, MASTERPLAN/ex-HELLOWEEN), Arjen Lucassen (guitars, AYREON), Sami Virtanen (guitars, JOE DOAKES), Jari Kainulainen (bass, STRATOVARIUS), Mirka Rantanen (drums, TUNNEL VISION), Gas (drums, H.I.M.), Janne Warman (keyboards, CHILDREN OF BODOM) and Mikko Harkin (keyboards, SONATA ARCTICA).
Finnish goth-metallers ENTWINE will enter Astia Studios in Lappeenranta, Finland in September with producer Anssi Kippo (CHILDREN OF BODOM, SINERGY, NORTHER) to record the follow-up to 2002's "Time Of Despair", due in early 2004 through Century Media Records. Unlike the group's previous releases, the as-yet-untitled effort will be mixed at Finnvox studios in Helsinki with Mikko Karmila (NIGHTWISH, STRATOVARIUS), according to a post on the band's web site. "Time Of Despair" entered the Finnish album charts at No. 24 upon its release in June 2002. The album's first single, "The Pit", debuted at No. 6 on the Finnish singles chart. ENTWINE frontman Mika Tauriainen's "atmospheric rock" side project, SHAMRAIN (formerly TEARS), are currently recording songs at F-Field Studio in Lahti for their full-length debut, tentatively due in November through Watch Me Fall Records. Download the new demo song ' (recorded in May 2003).
Norway's THE KOVENANT have set "The Dreaming Spires" as the tentative title for their forthcoming album, due in early 2004 through Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to this year's "S.E.T.I." (Search For Extraterrestrial Intelligence) will apparently be "more guitar-oriented and darker" than its predecessor. Among the tracks set to appear on the CD is "Radiation King". As previously reported, THE KOVENANT recently added two new members to the group's lineup: RAM-ZET drummer Kuth and APOPTYGMA BERZERK keyboardist Geir Bratland.
Finland's CHARON have changed the title for their forthcoming fourth full-length album to "The Dying Daylights" from the originally announced "Dead Man Walking". The follow-up to last year's "Downhearted" is due on October 6 through Spinefarm Records. A new single containing the song "Religious/Delicious" and the non-album cut "The King Is Dead" will be released on September 1. "The Dying Daylights" was recorded at BRR Studios in the group's hometown of Raahe and was mixed at Helsinki's Finnvox Studios. The album includes a guest appearance on backing vocals by NIGHTWISH/ex-SINERGY bassist Marco Hietala and Jenny Heinonen. The latter had performed a similar role on the group's last two albums, "Downhearted" and 2000's "Tearstained". The complete track listing for "The Dying Daylights" is as follows: 01. Failed 02. Religious/Delicious 03. Death Can Dance 04. In Brief War 05. Guilt On Skin 06. Unbreak, Unchain 07. Drive 08. Every Failure 09. In Trust Of No One 10. If 11. No Saint 12. Built For My Ghosts (digipack only) 13. Re-collected (digipack only) The cover artwork for the album was completed by artist extraordinaire Travis Smith (KATATONIA, DEATH, TESTAMENT, OPETH, etc.).
Home-video footage of THE IRON MAIDENS — L.A.'s all-girl tribute to IRON MAIDEN that features in its ranks PHANTOM BLUE members Linda McDonald (drums), Josephine (guitar), and Sara Marsh (guitar) — jamming with former TESTAMENT/SAVATAGE guitarist Alex Skolnick on a version of MAIDEN's "The Trooper" has been posted online in Quicktime format. ' .
Swedish death metallers ANATA have set "Under A Stone With No Inscription" as the title for their third full-length album, due on October 6 through Earache/Wicked World Records. The 10-song effort was recorded and mixed in the spring at Studio Mega studios in Bollebygd and was mastered earlier this summer at Digitalfabriken in Gothenburg. ANATA's last studio album, "Dreams Of Death And Dismay", was released in 2001 via Season Of Mist Records in Europe.
Swedish black metallers LORD BELIAL have entered Los Angered Recording in Angered (Gothenburg), Sweden to begin recording their new album, tentatively titled "The Seal Of Belial". The self-produced effort will be engineered by Nicklas Rudolfsson and Andy La Rocque (KING DIAMOND), and will be mixed by Andy. Drums, rhythm guitars and some overdubs are already finished, according to a post on the band's web site. A late 2003/early 2004 release through Regain Records is expected. LORD BELIAL have yet to announce a replacement for guitarist Niclas "Pepa" Andersson, who left the band early last month. Niclas' decision to exit the group came several weeks after the departure of drummer Michael Backelin, who has since been replaced by RUNEMAGICK/ex-RELEVANT FEW skinsman Daniel Moilanen (half-brother of former SHOTGUN MESSIAH guitarist Harry K. Cody).
A brand new SIX FEET UNDER track, titled ' , has been made available for download "Amerika The Brutal" comes off the group's forthcoming album, "Bringer Of Blood", due on September 23 through Metal Blade Records. The follow-up to 2001's "True Carnage" was recorded at Morrisound Recording and Hit Factory studios in Florida and is being described by frontman Chris Barnes (ex-CANNIBAL CORPSE) as "crushing. It's a lot different from our last release but heavy as fuck!" The complete track listing for "Bringer Of Blood" is as follows: 1. Sick In The Head 2. Amerika The Brutal 3. My Hatred 4. Murdered In The Basement 5. When Skin Turns Blue 6. Bringer Of Blood 7. Ugly 8. Braindead 9. Blind And Gagged 10. Claustrophobic 11. Escape From The Grave The upcoming CD will come with a free DVD containing a 45-minute behind-the-scenes look at the making of the album, including interviews with all the members, footage of the band's rehearsals, and of the band recording. There will also be a 20-minute documentary called "Six Feet Underground", filmed by Darren Grams.
A two-minute, 21-second MP3 clip from the forthcoming EDGE OF SANITY album, ' , has been posted online. "Crimson II", due on August 26 through Black Mark Records, is the group's first release since 1997's "Infernal" to feature multi-talented Swedish producer/musician/songwriter Dan Swano.
Stockholm, Sweden's MEMORY GARDEN, the band featuring former ABSKTRAKT ALGEBRA guitarist Simon Johansson, are in talks with an as-yet-undisclosed label about a new record deal for the group. "It all seems very promising and we really hope it all will turn out well," Johansson writes on the band's web site. "We can't give you any details for the moment but we thought it might be fun to tell you that something is happening in the our garden...:) As it looks right now we will record in the fall together with Mike Wead (producer, MERCYFUL FATE guitarist) and we are aiming for an early 2004 release." MEMORY GARDEN's forthcoming album, tentatively titled "Carnage Carnival", will be the group's first since their split with Metal Blade Records early last year. Among the tracks set to appear on the CD are the following: 1. ' 2. ' 3. ' 4. ' 5. ' 6. '
Reunited doom legends TROUBLE, who recently replaced longtime bassist Ron Holzner with Chuck Robinson (formerly of THIS TORTURED SOUL), will enter the studio on Saturday, August 9 to begin recording a seven-track acoustic compilation of classic TROUBLE material. The as-yet-untitled EP, which will also include a brand-new song written by Robinson and singer Eric Wagner, will only be available on the band's web site, www.newtrouble.com. In other news, the band will be traveling to Sweden and Holland in November to play some shows. More details will be made available soon. As previously reported, TROUBLE are set to enter the studio in October with producer Vincent Wojno (MACHINE HEAD, KREATOR, KONKHRA) to record their long-awaited new album, titled "Seven". According to frontman Eric Wagner, 15 songs have been written so far for the album, including "After The Rain", "Seven", "A Bad Situation", "Goin' Home", "Doombox" and "A New Generation". "It's still heavy, it's still TROUBLE, maybe a little more modern," says Eric. "It's still us. It's our seventh album and it was going to be seven years since our last album, but now it's going to be a little more."
Former JUDAS PRIEST frontman Tim "Ripper" Owens contributed vocals to the upcoming ICED EARTH album, "The Glorious Burden", as a guest singer only and has not yet made up his mind as to whether he will join the band permanently.
Colombian thrash/death brigade ATHANATOR is recording their new albun now. "Cold Blood Murder" will released in Europe through - Metal Blade, in America - Crash Music, in Asia - World Chaos.
At the beginning of July finnish SHAMAN (released 2 albums "Idja" 1999 and "Shamaniac" 2002 through Natural Born Records) have changed name to KORPIKLAANI ("Woods Clan") and signed a deal with Napalm Records for 4 albums, first release is entitled as "Spirit of the Forest" and will be released on 10th of November this year. Music of band can be described as mix of finnish folk melodies with metal sound.
Recordings of debut work by Greek brutal death metallers INVERACITY finished. CD entitled "Circle Of Perversion" due in November on Unmatched Brutality Records. Tracklist: 01. Savagely Beaten 02. Repulsed By Vaginal Reek 03. Fistfuck Sodomy 04. Defloration 05. Unconscious 06. Ejaculation Over Mutilation 07. Blood Of Impurity 08. Compulsive Degradation 09. She Died In My Arms 10. Eleven 11. Multiple Homicide
New album of blackers TIDFALL "Nucleus" is currently in stores! The complete tracklistibg is: 1. Future Doom 2. Nucleus 3. Neo-Torment 4. Mercury Mesh 5. Soil of Tomorrow 6. Psychotronica 7. Zounds 8. Exo-Skeleton 9. Tech
MACHINE HEAD have set the tentative track listing for their forthcoming album, "Through The Ashes Of Empires", due in Europe on October 13 through Roadrunner Records. The follow-up to 2001's "Supercharger" will feature the following cuts (in no particular order): 01. Imperium 02. Bite The Bullet 03. Left Unfinished 04. Elegy 05. In The Presence Of My Enemies 06. Days Turn Blue To Gray 07. Vim 08. All Falls Down 09. Wipe The Tears 10. Descend The Shades Of Night
German power metallers SYMPHORCE, featuring BRAINSTORM frontman Andy B. Franck, will enter House Of Music studios in Winterbach, Germany in September with producer Achim Kohler (BRAINSTORM, PRIMAL FEAR) to record their new album, titled "Twice Second". "No more mistakes," commented Franck. "We've worked very hard for this new album, and it will surprise many out there! Everything you've missed on 'PhorcefulAhead' … everything you love on old school and modern metal stuff — it'll be on 'Twice Second'!" Among the tracks set to appear on the CD are "Fallen", "Ignored By The System", "Two Seconds To Live" and "Turn Away". A January 2004 release through Metal Blade Records is expected.
Finnish melodic death/doom metallers SWALLOW THE SUN, who feature several members of FUNERIS NOCTURNUM, have entered Sam's Workshop with producer Sami Kokko to begin recording their debut album, due in November through Firebox Records. The as-yet-untitled effort will contain the following tracks: 1. Through Her Silvery Body 2. Deadly Nightshade 3. Out Of This Gloomy Light 4. Swallow 5. Hold This Woe 6. Silence Of The Womb 7. Under The Waves 8. The Morning Never Came
Swedish melodic death metallers WITHIN Y, who feature in their ranks former GARDENIAN drummer Thim Blom, have entered Gothenburg's Meta 4 studios to begin recording their debut album, "Extended Mental Dimensions", due in early 2004 through Hammerheart Records.
John O Fathaigh leaves CRUACHAN again. "Yes John has parted ways with us yet again and we wholeheartedly apologise to each and everyone of our fans for this ridiculous situation. His reasons for leaving are again "personal" and we are very unhappy that he wasted our time by coming back in the firstplace. We will find a replacement and we will continue to tour with a guest musician. What does not kill us only makes us stronger!" Keith Fay on behalf of CRUACHAN.
German melodic gothic metal band CREMATORY, who split up in 2001 after a successful, decade-long career, have officially reformed and are preparing to enter the studio to record a new studio album, tentatively titled "Revolution". The follow-up to 2000's "Believe" is scheduled for release on March 1, 2004 through Nuclear Blast Records.
Swedish thrashers THE CROWN have set an October 20 release date through Metal Blade Records for their new album, "Possessed 13". The self-produced effort, which was recorded at Gothenurg's Studio Fredman during May/June, will be released in a special limited-edition double-CD digipack, featuring a bonus CD that will contain the band's 1993 "Forever Heaven Gone" and 1994 "Forget The Light" demos, a cover of BATHORY's "Burnin' Leather", and a demo version of "Rebel Angel" (off 2000's "Deathrace King" CD). The complete track listing for the "deluxe" version of "Possessed 13" will be as follows: 01. No Tomorrow 02. Face Of Destruction/Deep Hit Of Death 03. Deliverance 04. Cold Is The Grave 05. Dream Bloody Hell (instrumental) 06. Morningstar Rising 07. Are You Morbid? 08. Bow To None 09. Kill 'Em All 10. Natashead Overdrive 11. Zombiefied 12. Dawn Of Emptiness 13. In Memoriam (instrumental)
Bonus CD:
01. Last Rite (the band's first "pro" recording from 1992)
"Forever Heaven Gone" demo (1993) 02. Seventh Gate 03. Deadspawn 04. Diachronic Damnation 05. The Lord Of The Rings 06. Beyond Where Darkness Dwells 07. Forever Heaven Gone
DANZIG will be heading into the studio in a few weeks to begin recording their new album, tentatively due in late 2003/early 2004 through Spitfire Records. As previously reported, DANZIG's lineup for the next CD will be as follows: Glenn Danzig – vocals Tommy Victor (PRONG) – guitar Bevan Davies (COMES WITH THE FALL) – drums Jerry Montano (ex-THE DEADLIGHTS) – bass DANZIG will play several headlining shows in September, to be followed by the "Blackest of The Black" tour in October, also featuring SUPERJOINT RITUAL and DEVILDRIVER. In other news, the band's DVD, "Archive De La Morte", may include an as-yet-undisclosed extra track when it receives a European release later in the year.
Canada's EIDOLON have completed their latest slab of molten metal, "Apostles Of Defiance", due on October 6 through Metal Blade Records. Tracklist: 1. Scream From Within 2. Volcanic Earth 3. Twisted Morality 4. Demoralized 5. The Test 6. The Will To Remain 7. Apostles Of Defiance 8. Pull The Trigger 9. Apathy For A Dying World
Vocalist Jape decided to end his career in TO/DIE/FOR. He told that he had no more motivation to go on with the band. Band wish him good luck in whatever he is going to do and thanks for great times with the band. Now group is looking for a new singer who can fill the huge hole which Jape left.
LAKE OF TEARS are going to start again! According to the official site of the band: "I, Mikael and Johan have discussed playing together again and we will probably try it out in next week (if we can get our things together). It's been like four years so it will be really interesting. Anyway, if the feeling is there again (I think it may be, now when Black Mark is gone and all) ... there may be a record out next year (and hopefully some shows). Let's see ..." (Daniel Brennare)
Russian, Perm-based melodic death/black group ACT OF GOD started the recordings of their second album. Work name is "They Beside". It will include 8-9 tracks plus MAYHEM's cover song "Freezing Moon". Band plans to finish whole work till winter comes.
Finland's THROES OF DAWN are set to enter Sonic Pump studios in Helsinki on August 17 for five days to record the drums and bass for their fourth full-length album. According to the band's official web site, "10 new brilliant songs will be recorded in three parts," with guitars and synths scheduled to be tracked between September 30 and October 7, and the vocals and the mix due to be completed between November 5 and November 11. An early 2004 release through Avantgarde/Wounded Love Records is expected. In other news, THROES OF DAWN recently acquired three new members: Juha Ylikoski (guitar, ex-ROTTEN SOUND), Harri Huhtala (bass, ex-CARTILAGE, ex-VOMITURITION), and Jani Martikkala (drums, BLACK DAWN, ex-...AND OCEANS, ex-ENOCHIAN CRESCENT).
Some news from Oupiric Prouctions. * A new album of cruel Ukrainian sympho black metallers CAPITOLLIUM is soon to be upon you. Entitled as "Symphony of Possession" this cassette release is less raw than its preceedor "Undivine Antipathy", but more melodic and atmospheric. And it's still blasphemous as Hell! You are warned! * The first CD release of Oupiric Productions is being prepared - vamperotic sympho black metal insanity called "Blood, Desire And Dead Nenuphars" by Russian BLACK COUNTESS. * From the very depths of Hell come the Black Trinity of true and evil Black Metal cassette releases on OUPIRIC Productions. Scheduled on Autumn these pieces of Supreme blasphemy will make the christians tremble with fear. Here they are: BESTIAL (Rus) "Satanic Metal" MC MISANTHROPIC ART (Rus) "Possessed by Bestiality" MC SAMHAIN (Rus) "Saligia" MC And much more satanic spawn to follow soon! * A new OUPIRIC mailorder catalogue METAL V MASSY! will be printed in Autumn with a lot of updates and interviews. Watch out! OUPIRIC PRODUCTIONS CONTACTS c/o Michael Nickolayev, PO Box 340, Kaluga-02, 248002 RUSSIA E-mail:
New album "Somni Regnum" is ready! It's not known yet, when it will be in stores. In Europe "Somni Regnum" will release Xtreem Music (ex-Repulse), which also piblished last ROSSOMAHAAR's album "Quaerite Lux In Tenebris" for not-CIS states. Also ROSSOMAHAAR released recently their first live album "Live And Die In Moscow" through Sound Age.
HATE ETERNAL bassist/vocalist Jared Anderson has left the band in order to commit himself to rehabilitation for a drug problem. The following is Anderson's official statement on the matter: "Due to a continuous ongoing drug problem for the last couple of years, I've committed myself to rehabilitation. I will be leaving HATE ETERNAL due to the time and dedication it's taking to get myself back on the right track. It's a very unfortunate situation, which must be dealt with, and out of total respect for my bandmates, it's the right thing to do for I cannot be responsible for holding the band back. HATE ETERNAL has been one of the greatest things in my life for 5 years and now it must end due to my personal issues. I want to apologize to all the fans and my bandmates as well. But I can simply say that I will get well and I will be back somewhere in this scene. I wish the band all the luck in the world and thank you for the great 5 years. Blessed be and may the hatred be eternal!" The rest of the band issued a separate statement offering their support to Anderson. "Jared, being our bandmate as well as one of our best friends, we wish him the best with his recovery and his health and he will always be a part of what HATE ETERNAL was and is, we will miss him!" Randy Piro will be taking over on bass/backing vocals.
DIMMU BORGIR will finish their new video this week. Here you can see a cut from interview Silenoz for The MetalList Portal: Scorpio: When will you make normal videoclip? The only - "Mourning Palace" is er... shit. Silenoz: Yep, I totally agree. But I must also say, that we didn't it. It was sourcing by the label, we even didn't know it comes to produce. This time we shoot another video with a company from Sweden. And the video will be finished next week. Its gonna be looking really killer, and yeah, it's a very professional video. Scorpio: Can you tell what will we see? Silenoz: It's what you get lay out for the album. You will see its connection with the video. It's gonna look extremally good and we gonna use it for promotional first, then it also will be included on the additions of the album in 5.1 Surround mix. Read full interview on our site this week!
Former JUDAS PRIEST frontman Tim "Ripper" Owens has officially joined ICED EARTH. Owens, who left JUDAS PRIEST due to Halford's return, has already finished laying down vocals to the group's new album, "The Glorious Burden", which will be release this fall through SPV/Steamhammer Records.
Britain's SKYCLAD are a last-minute addition to the Hawkfest, a three-day event set to take place August 8-10 near Preston. SKYCLAD will be hitting the stage on Sunday, August 10 at approximately 4:30 p.m. Other bands set to appear at the festival include THE LEVELLERS, HAWKWIND, SPACEHEAD, TRIBE OF CRO, MR QUIMBY'S BEARD, LITMUS and PXR1. In other news, SKYCLAD's successful 2.5-hour headlining gig at the Dong Open Air on July 19 included four songs from the band's upcoming album, "A Semblance of Normality". The group's complete setlist for the Dong show was as follows: 1. Penny Dreadful 2. Spinning Jenny 3. The Widdershins Jig 4. The Cry Of The Land 5. The Disenchanted Forrest 6. Great Blow For A Day Job 7. Survival Campaign (new) 8. No Deposit, No Return 9. Anotherdrinkingsong (new) 10. The Parliament Of Fools (new) 11. Earth Mother, The Sun And The Furious Host 12. A Well Beside The River 13. Inequalitey Street 14. Anti-Body Politic 15. Another Fine Mess 16. Mr. Malaprope (new) 17. Think Back And Lie Of England 18. Thinking Allowed 19. Swords Of A Thousand Men 20. Emerald 21. If I Die Laughing 22. Penny Dreadful 23. Spinning Jenny 24. History Lessens 25. Polkageist
METALLICA's Robert Trujillo will make a guest appearance in a new video for NICKEL CREEK's instrumental track "Smoothie Song". Bassist, who sat in on the acoustic pop-country act's video shoot Wednesday (July 30) in New York, reportedly plays a stand-up bass in the clip. METALLICA and NICKEL CREEK share the same management company — New York-based Q Prime Management.
Even though METALLICA's battle with Napster is fading into the past, critics of the band still hang on to it. Just last week, someone started an Internet hoax story — that METALLICA had copyrighted the chords D and F and would sue anyone who used them in a song. Guitarist/singer James Hetfield laughs uncontrollably when told of the story. "That's so awesome," he finally gasps. "I find that extremely funny."
The reformed FEAR FACTORY — now consisting of Christian Olde Wolbers (guitar/bass), Raymond Herrera (drums), and Burton C. Bell (vocals) — are strongly rumored to be on the verge of signing a new record deal with the Los Angeles-based D3 Entertainment (INSANE CLOWN POSSE, OL' DIRTY BASTARD). The group are expected to enter the studio in late summer/early fall to begin recording the follow-up to 2001's "Digimortal", tentatively due in early 2004. Among the tracks set to appear on the as-yet-untitled effort are "Slave Labor", "Corporate Cloning", "Archetype", and "Bite The Hand That Feeds".
Swedish "gothic metal" act BESEECH have set "Drama" as the title for their fourth full-length album, tentatively due in early 2004 through Napalm Records. BESEECH have spent the past few weeks at Studio Mega recording the follow-up to 2002's "Souls Highway", the group's first effort since the departure of longtime guitarist Klas Bohlin. According to guitarist Robert Spanglund, "some outside persons that visited the studio and heard some songs in the studio think the new material [is] comparable to/[a] combination of bands such as H.I.M., EVANECESCENCE, TYPE O NEGATIVE, MARILYN MANSON and ALANIS MORISETTE." Among the tracks set to appear on the album are the following: 1. Forever Falling 2. Bitch 3. Drama 4. Higher Level 5. Sunset 28 * 6. Come On In * "ambient, softer version" of the track that previously appeared on "Souls Highway"
ALCHEMIST taked their new video - for the song "First Contact". The video, from the band's highly-received new album "Austral Alien", was directed by ALCHEMIST drummer Rodney Holder and features stunning scenes incorporating Sci-Fi elements that depict alien abduction.
MAYHEM's classic "Wolf's Lair Abyss" CD will be reissued through Candlelight USA on October 14. The recording continues the label's classic reissue series — adding to earlier reissues by ARCTURUS, FLEURETY and VED BUENS ENDE. MAYHEM will be entering a mobile studio in the mountains of Norway in the fall to record their new album, "Chimera". They will also be accompanied by their technician for this recording, Borge Finstad. The follow-up to 2000's "Grand Declaration Of War" will include such titles as "Rape Humanity With Pride", "Chimera", "Dark Night Of The Soul" and "Deathwhore". An early 2004 release through Season Of Mist Records is expected.
Polish death metallers VADER will issue a new mini-CD, titled "Blood", on September 22 — a month earlier than the originally announced October 20 release date. The seven-song effort will contain two new songs, "We Wait" and "Shape-shifting", which were recorded over a one-week period beginning on July 10 at Red Studio with engineer Piotr Lukaszewski ("Reign Forever World", "Revelations"). Also included on the CD will be a few rare cuts from "Revelations" recording sessions: "As The Fallen Rise" (taken from Japanese version of "Revelations"), "Angel Of Death" (Japanese version of the album and EP released in Poland exclusively), "When Darkness Calls" (Polish EP version), "Son Of Fire" (European digi-pack version), and "Traveler" (Polish digi-pack version). The complete track listing for the EP is as follows: 1. Shape-Shifting 2. We Wait 3. Son Of Fire 4. As The Fallen Rise 5. Traveler 6. When Darkness Calls 7. Angel Of Death (THIN LIZZY cover)
QUEENSRYCHE's current tour finds them co-headlining with math-metal cult band DREAM THEATER — a smart consolidation of two bands with similar leanings. "Our music styles complement each other really well," QUEENSRYCHE guitarist Michael Wilton told "I know a lot of tours have been suffering, but this one is really kicking ass."
Finnish melodic power metallers STRATOVARIUS have finalized the track listing for their new album, "Elements Part 2", due on October 27 through Nuclear Blast Records. The album, which will once again feature artwork by Derek Riggs, will contain the following songs: 1. Alpha & Omega 2. I Walk To My Own Song 3. I'm Still Alive 4. Season Of Faith's Perfection 5. Awaken The Giant 6. Know The Difference 7. Luminous 8. Dreamweaver 9. Liberty 10. Ride Like The Wind (Japanese bonus) "Elements Part 2" was produced by guitarist Timo Tolkki and mixed by Mikko Karmila at Finnvox Studios. All music and words for the album were written by Timo Tolkki, except for "Ride Like The Wind", which was penned by keyboardist Jens Johansson. You can view the artwork for the album
New Jersey's GOD FORBID will be re-releasing their debut full-length album, "Reject The Sickness", on their own label, PR Records. This blistering effort has been out of print for some time and will be available in about a month at shows, online, and at indie metal and hardcore stores. The group are currently wrapping up the recording process for their highly anticipated new album, produced by Eric Rachel (DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN). Expect an early 2004 release through Century Media Records.
SEETHINGS, the new Swedish band fronted by former DARKANE vocalist Lawrence Mackrory, will release their debut album, "Parallels", in Europe and Scandinavia on October 27 through Scarlet Records. Division Records will release the album in France and Switzerland. At this point, the group have no release dates for U.S. and Asia but hope to secure something soon. In conjunction with the release, SEETHINGS will throw two parties in Stockholm and in the band's hometown of Uppsala on September 29 and the 30. Both events will feature a live performance by the band.
PANTERA's forthcoming career overview, "The Best of Pantera: Far Beyond the Great Southern Cowboys' Vulgar Hits!" , will surface on September 23 through Elektra/Rhino Records, Billboard.com reports. The 16-song "Vulgar Hits!" CD will be packaged with a bonus DVD boasting 12 videos, including two live performances. The bulk of the material is culled from the band's six major-label releases, but also included are non-album cuts "Cat Scratch Fever" (a cover of the TED NUGENT song that originally appeared on the Polygram soundtrack to "Detroit Rock City") and the BLACK SABBATH cover "Hole in the Sky", previously available only on import. The complete track listing for "The Best of Pantera" is as follows: 1. Cowboys From Hell 2. Cemetary Gates 3. Mouth for War 4. Walk 5. This Love 6. I'm Broken 7. Becoming 8. 5 Minutes Alone 9. Planet Caravan 10. Drag the Waters 11. Where You Came From (Live) 12. Cat Scratch Fever 13. Revolution Is My Name 14. I'll Cast a Shadow 15. Goddamn Electric 16. Hole in the Sky
Bonus DVD:
1. Cowboys From Hell 2. Psycho Holiday 3. Cemetary Gates 4. Mouth For War 5. This Love 6. Walk 7. 5 Minutes Alone 8. I'm Broken 9. Drag the Waters 10. Domination (Live) 11. Primal Concrete Sledge (Live) 12. Revolution Is My Name
Canadian death metallers KATAKLYSM have hired L.A. director Joe Lynch (COAL CHAMBER, 311, GODHEAD, PETE YORN) to film the video for the band's new single, "As I Slither". The shoot will take place on August 31 at the Huntridge Theater in Las Vegas, Nevada. KATAKLYSM will enter Studio Victor in Montreal in November to begin recording their new album, "Serenity In Fire", for an early 2004 release through Nuclear Blast Records. The album will be produced by KATAKLYSM guitarist Jean-Francois Dagenais (MISERY INDEX, MALEVOLENT CREATION) and will be mixed at Wildsound studio in St-Zenon, Quebec.
A brand new MORBID ANGEL track, titled ' , has been posted online. "Enshrined by Grace" comes off the group's upcoming album, "Heretic", due on September 23 (a day earlier internationally) through Earache Records. The band are planning to embark on an extensive world tour in early 2004 to promote the release. As previously reported, "Heretic" was recorded and mixed at D.O.W. (Diet Of Worms) studios in Seffner, Florida and was co-produced by the band and longtime front-of-house mixing engineer Juan "Punchy Gonzalez. The album — the group's ninth overall release (including their 1986 "Abominations Of Desolation" demo and the 1996 live album, "Entangled In Chaos") — marks a return to the fold of bassist/vocalist Steve Tucker, who originally left the band in early April 2001 due to "personal and family problems." Tucker was temporarily replaced by HATE ETERNAL bassist/vocalist Jared Anderson but rejoined the band earlier this year amid rumors of a possible reunion with former vocalist David Vincent.
SKRAPE have set "Up The Dose" as the title for their new CD, due on September 23 through RCA Records. The album — the group's first features new guitarist Randy Melser — was produced by Jimbo Barton (QUEENSRYCHE, GODSMACK) in Miami, Los Angeles and in SKRAPE's own Orlando, Florida rehearsal/recording studio. It showcases 11 original songs, including "Bleach", "Syrup", "In The End", "Ocean", "Habit" and the acoustic epic "Searching For Home".
IRON MAIDEN have posted the ' . "Dance Of Death", due on September 9 through Columbia Records, was produced by Kevin Shirley, who, along with bassist Steve Harris, co-produced the group's 2000 album, "Brave New World", and last year's concert set "Rock in Rio".
Finland's CHARON have set "Dead Man Walking" as the title for their forthcoming fourth full-length album, due on September 1 through Spinefarm Records. The follow-up to last year's "Downhearted" was recorded at BRR Studios in the group's hometown of Raahe and was mixed at Helsinki's Finnvox Studios. The album includes a guest appearance on backing vocals by NIGHTWISH/ex-SINERGY bassist Marco Hietala and Jenny Heinonen. The latter had performed a similar role on the group's last two albums, "Downhearted" and 2000's "Tearstained". The complete track listing for "Dead Man Walking" is as follows: 1. Failed 2. Religious/Delicious 3. Death Can Dance 4. In Brief War 5. Guilt On Skin 6. Unbreak, Unchain 7. Drive 8. Every Failure 9. In Trust Of No One 10. If 11. No Saint 12. Built For My Ghosts (digipack only) 13. Re-collected (digipack only)
A PERFECT CIRCLE fan site APerfectCircle.us has posted a full-length MP3 of the band's new single, ' . The recording was made off the radio when the song was played on 92.3 WXTM in Cleveland, Ohio. A PERFECT CIRCLE's upcoming sophomore album 'Thirteenth Step' is due for release on September 16 through Virgin Records.
After seven months of hard work, "The Sixth Dimension" is ready for you to enter! We've finished recordings,photo-shooting and artwork of DOMAINs 6th full lenght studio album "The Sixth Dimension". Eleven all-new DOMAIN tracks plus one bonus tracks and one bonus video clip. The album will officially be available in stores September 15th!
Madrid, Spain-based power metallers DARK MOOR have announced the addition of drummer Andy C. to the group's ranks. Andy is 25 years old and has previously played in several Spanish bands, including WORMED. DARK MOOR's self-titled fourth full-length album will be recorded during August at New Sin StudiosItaly with producer Luigi Stefanini. The new album will mark the recording debut with the band of new singer Alfred Romero and second guitarist Jose Garrido. Also featured on the CD will be guest vocalist Beatriz Albert, a "fantastic" singer who will record background vocals for the entire album and lead vocals in one song. Additional guest appearances are expected from the Valcavasian choir, which previously appeared on the group's "The Gates of Oblivion" album, and the pianist Isabel Garcia. "Dark Moor" is tentatively due in early 2004 through Arise Records. A single containing one album cut and two non-album tracks will surface in October. DARK MOOR's last release was the "Between Light and Darkness" EP, which contained four newly-recorded tracks and four previously-unreleased numbers ("Dies Irae" (orchestral version), "The Mistery Of Goddess", "The Shadow Of The Nile" and "The Fall Of Melnibone"). The collection, which marked the band's first effort without keyboardist Robert Pena de Camus, was issued in April through Arise Records.
SYSTEM OF A DOWN guitarist Daron Malakian have founded record label, EatUrMusic, which inked a worldwide distribution deal with Sony. When asked how EatUrMusic differs from Serjical Strike, the label of SYSTEM OF A DOWN frontman Serj Tankian, Malakian said, "Serj is not into rock music, so I don't see him signing rock bands. If he listens to rock, he listens to shit that's out there. His is more of a pregressive-style label — I can't say it has more of an artsy twist, because my stuff will have that, too."
Legendary death/grind pervesors from Austria PUNGENT STENCH soon will finally come to CIS with super gigs. Guitarist/vocalist Martin Shyrenz is disease-free now, and all participants are full of determination and enthusiasm to get to CIS-states. PUNGENT STENCH drummer Alex Bank aka Rector Stench said about this: "After sad cancelation of our tour year ago we are glad and proud to have again ability to visit your countries and play concerts! Wait for us at the end of September - beginning of October. We promise cool show and good time. See you, write to us and - Enjoy the Stench!" Final dates will be soon. Contact with organizers: ' / '
IRON MAIDEN drummer Nicko McBrain was arrested and charged with assault yesterday (July 26) after intentionally hitting a parking attendant with his car before a concert at Jones Beach Theater. McBrain arrived at Jones Beach around 8:30 p.m. for the group's concert, and was stopped as he entered the exclusive parking area. After a confrontation with the 30-year-old worker over credentials, the park employee stood in front of McBrain's car, blocking the lot entrance. McBrain struck him in the legs. The man backed up, but stayed in front of the car. McBrain, told him to "move or he would hit him again. The man, 30, whose name was not released by the police, refused to budge, and McBrain surged the car forward again, nailing him and causing the man to fall forward on the car's hood. State park police arrested McBrain and released him on an appearance ticket before the concert started. It is part of IRON MAIDEN's "Give Me Ed ... 'Til I'm Dead" tour. McBrain was charged with third-degree assault and is scheduled to appear in First District Court in Hempstead Sept. 16.
PRO-PAIN are set to return to action on August 26 with the release of their ninth studio album, "Run For Cover" (Spitfire). The album's unusual concept, containing cover songs from artists who have influenced the band. From metal monsters SLAYER ("South of Heaven"), MOTORHEAD ("Iron Fist") and CELTIC FROST ("Circle of the Tyrants") to punk/hardcore trailblazers DISCHARGE ("Never Again"), NEGATIVE APPROACH ("Nothing"), OPERATION IVY ("The Crowd"), BLACK FLAG ("Damaged II") and AGNOSTIC FRONT ("Your Mistake"). The album also includes a surprise remake from founder/front-man/bassist Gary Meskil's former band CRUMBSUCKERS ("Just Sit There") and LIFE OF AGONY's "Weeds".
SLAYER have already written 10 songs for their next studio album, which they're going to release before April, 2004. "It's gonna sound like a band that starts with the letter 'S' and ends with 'R,' " - joked singer/bassist Tom Araya. Although the tragic events of September 11, 2001, and the violence that's erupted in the Middle East seem like natural lyrical subjects for a band like SLAYER. The group hope to enter a Los Angeles studio in early December.
Long-running Israeli metallers ORPHANED LAND have entered the studio to record their third full-length album, tentatively titled "Mabool", for a late 2003 release through Century Media Records. ORPHANED LAND's follow-up to 1996's "El Norra Alila" will be a concept album, "telling the story of the Flood with every song reflecting a different chapter," according to an official press release. "It is planned to contain more than 65 minutes of Oriental Folk Metal and will surprise with the use of oriental, ancient instruments such as Qannun, Oud, Saz, Buzuki and oriental Percussions, side by side with distorted guitars and a mix of melodic and growled vocals. Additionally, there will be a 25-female-singer choir."
Next few days in stores will appear GODFLESH tribute compilation. 26 bands took part in thus action. Full tracklist: 1. KILL THE THRILL - Us And Them 2. ANTIGAMA - Anything Is Mine 3. WEEPING BIRTH - Like Rats 4. DEE N DEE - Crush My Soul 5. COUNTERFORCE - Angel Domain 6. ERLING SOLEM - Wounds 7. BEHOLD THE LIVING CORPSE - Go Spread Your Wings 8. SET IN STONE - Love Is A Dog From Hell 9. ARE YOU GOD - Mantra 10. WODEN - Xnoybis 11. THRALLDOM - Christbait Rising 12. PEDIGREE - Hunter 13. KHAOS DIVINE - Impure (pure 1 + pure2 remix)
CD2
1. BLUT AUS NORD - Mighty Trust Krusher 2. GRENOUER vs COD - I Me Mine 3. INFECTION CODE - Nail 4. FRAGMENT KING FEAT. LEECH - If I Could Only Be What You Want 5. DIABOLUS EX MACHINA - Mothra 6. CYLENS - Pulp 7. FUCK THE FACTS - Devastator 8. BEGOTTEN - Life Is Easy 9. CTHUWULF - Avalanche Master 10. THE SKELETONZ - Angel Domain 11. KAMP CHAOS - Xnoybis - Pulp 12. CONDITION - Gift From Heaven 13. PROPHELATION - Mothra
Veteran German metallers RAGE have posted two songs from their upcoming "Soundchaser" CD in Real Audio format at the SPV Records web site. Check them out: ' '
U.K.-based cult doom rockers CATHEDRAL have signed a deal with Nuclear Blast Records. The group's follow-up to last year's "The VIIth Coming" is tentatively due in early 2004. CATHEDRAL were previously signed to Dream Catcher Records in Europe and Spitfire Records in the U.S. CATHEDRAL will be teaming up with STRAPPING YOUNG LAD and SAMAEL for a North American tour beginning in early September.
Swiss melodic metallers CRYSTAL BALL have set "Hellvetia" as the title for their fourth full-length album, due on November 3 through Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to last year's "Virtual Empire" is currently being mixed at Roxx studios in Pulheim, Germany with producer Stefan Kaufmann (ACCEPT, U.D.O.). "Everybody agrees that this will be the best CRYSTAL BALL album ever!" the band write on their official web site.
Finland's TAROT, the group led by NIGHTWISH/ex-SINERGY bassist Marco Hietala, have posted their video for the track "Pyre Of Gods". ' "Pyre Of Gods" comes off the group's latest CD, "Suffer Our Pleasures", which debuted at No. 10 on the Finnish album chart upon its release in May. The band, whose last album, "For The Glory Of Nothing", came out in 1998, never officially broke up and have managed to play at least a couple of live gigs every year. TAROT feature Hietala on bass/vocals, his brother Zachary on guitar, Janne Tolsa on keyboards, and Pecu Cinnari on drums.
British grindcore pioneers NAPALM DEATH have finalized the track listing for their upcoming collection of covers, entitled "Leaders Not Followers 2". The album, due before the end of the year through the band's own Feto label, will include the following cuts: 1. CRYPTIC SLAUGHTER – "Lowlife" 2. OFFENDERS – "Face Down In The Dirt" 3. DEVASTATION – "Devastation" 4. ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT - "Dope Fiend" 5. AGNOSTIC FRONT - "Blind Justice" 6. WEHRMACHT - "Night Of Pain" 7. ANTI CIMEX - "Game Of The Assholes"/"Victims Of A Bomb Raid" 8. SEPULTURA - "Troops Of Doom" 9. INSANITY - "Fire Death Fate" 10. HIRAX - "Hate Fear + Power" 11. DAYGLO ABORTIONS - "Bedtime Story" 12. HELLHAMMER - "Messiah" 13. KREATOR - "Riot Of Violence" 14. DISCHARGE - "War's Not Fairytale" 15. SIEGE - "Conform" 16. MASSACRE - "Clangor Of War" 17. MASTER - "Master" 18. DIE KREUZEN - "I'm Tired"
ANATHEMA have entered Parkgate Studios near Hastings, U.K. to begin recording the follow-up to 2001's "A Fine Day to Exit", tentatively due in late 2003/early 2004 through Music For Nations Records. "Things are going very well here," ANATHEMA guitarist Daniel "Danny" Cavanagh writes on the band's official web site. "For the fist time in a while we recorded live together. Drums, bass, guitars and even vocals on a few songs. The sounds we have got going are very powerful."
Ha-ha, Nuclear Blast couldn't do something. So, the last news - IMMORTAL SPLIT UP! "After 13 years and 7 albums we have decided to stop working with IMMORTAL due to personal reasons. A great thanks to all our fans worldwide who helped us making IMMORTAL superb through all this time. Abbath, Demonaz, Horgh" These guys give the hottest news this summer, heh.
IRON MAIDEN guitarist Dave Murray spoke to MTV.com about the band's decision to do away with extensive road treks following the completion of their current "Give Me Ed ... 'Til I'm Dead" tour. In the future, the band will still release albums, but MAIDEN plan to limit their touring to festivals and select stadiums. "Over the years, we've toured for nine months on every album, and if you add that up it's a lot of time," Murray said. "Maybe it's time to sit back a bit. We're still gonna go out and have fun, we're just not gonna kill ourselves."
"The new album is finally in stores!!! We've been received very encouraging reviews throughout Europe and the U.S. (hopefully the positive feedback will continue); at present we are evaluating tracks and getting ready to mix down the songs that we plan on releasing as additional bonus live material to an upcoming 12" vinyl picture disk single that will feature the "Earth Under Lucifer" and "Insurrection" from "Order Of The Illuminati" release. If you live in Germany be sure to pick up a copy of the new Rockhard Magazine (Manowar on the cover) that includes an inserted compilation CD featuring music from NEVERMORE and AGENT STEEL and others!"
First Pressing Of "Anthems Of Rebellion" To Include Bonus Material... The initial pressing of the European edition of ARCH ENEMY's forthcoming "Anthems Of Rebellion" CD will be available as a strictly limited 2-CD version. Aside from the regular album, you will get an audio-only DVD as a bonus disc, containing three live-songs recorded during the "Wages Of Sin" tour with Angela Gossow on vocals. In addition, the limited double-digi pack version will include three Dolby Digital 5.1 mixes of songs from the new album while the limited jewel-case will contain two Dolby Digital 5.1 mixes. Here is the track listing for the two different, limited-edition bonus discs: EU Bonus Disc 2-CD Digi pack: Live tracks: Lament Of A Mortal Soul Behind The Smile Diva Satanica Dolby Digital 5.1 Mixes: Exist To Exit Leader Of The Rats Dead Eyes See No Future
EU Bonus Disc 2-CD jewelcase: Live tracks: Lament Of A Mortal Soul Behind The Smile Diva Satanica Dolby Digital 5.1 Mixes: Leader Of The Rats Dead Eyes See No Future
Additionally, the album will be available on vinyl. The initial US version of the album will be in jewel case and feature the bonus disc with all 6 bonus tracks. In order to bring visuals of ARCH ENEMY to your living-room the band just shot a video for "We Will Rise" this past weekend. More details to follow in the next few days. ARCH ENEMY's "Anthems Of Rebellion" is due on Aug. 25 in Europe (and Aug 26 in the US) through Century Media Records. A Japanese release is expected on July 30 (it was originally scheduled for the July 23) through Toy's Factory Records. The Japanese edition features the same bonus material as above.
New releases from Bloodhead Production: (dates of releases - beginning of august) MC Mourning Palace "Beside The Sculptured Majesty" (Ukraine) - black metal MC Vinterriket "...und Die Nacht Schweren Schrittes" (Germany) - black/ ambient MC Vinterriket "Finsternis" (Germany) - black/ambient MC Goldprick/Brilliant Coldness "split" (Belarus/Ukraine) - grindcore against brutal death metal MC War Swallowed "Fantasy Flight" (Russia) - brutal death metal MC Abysma "Armageddon" (Ukraine) - black/ambient MC Witenagemot "Tomorrow Bequest" (Ukraine) - dark/ambient
Bloodhead Production contact: Vyacheslav Zhuravlew P.O.box 2074 Mariupol, Donetsk region 87539 Ukraine e-mail: bloodhead@mariupol.net
The Finnish melodic death/black titans CHILDREN OF BODOM have just signed a deal with Century Media Records. After a fierce label bidding war Century Media emerged victorious and are extremely proud to have "the hate crew" as a part of their family. The eagerly anticipated new album appropriately titled, "Hate Crew Deathroll", is currently set for a September 23rd release. Over the past year Children of Bodom have been extremely busy promoting their new album (released on Spinefarm Records earlier this year) throughout Japan and Europe touring with labelmates SHADOWS FALL and SOILWORK. Century Media's main focus now is to concentrate their efforts in building a strong presence for the group throughout the U.S. starting with a nationwide tour in November with details to be announced soon.
Again news about 'broken' IMMORTAL. Right after Abbath and team announced they splitted up, IMMORTAL's label Nuclear Blast reported, that "The rumours about the split of Immortal aren't 100% correct. In fact, IMMORTAL will simply take a long break, as the musicians need to rest a while after 12 months of excessive touring. In the meantime, both Abbath and Horgh will concentrate on their own projects. To start with, the debut album of Grimfist will probably be released in September on Candlelight Records, with Horgh on drums."
Dutches released new album full of brutality - "Acts Of Rage". Tracklist: 1. Haunted 2. Acts Of Rage 3. Harlequin Of Perpetual Destiny 4. I'll Slice You Into Pieces 5. Suoived (Introspection) 6. Conjuration Of Destruction 7. Inanimate 8. 5 Min's In Decay 9. Excavation Of The Undead 10. Dragged Below
After Rob Halford returned to JUDAS PRIEST "Ripper" Owens lwft without job. It seems he's going to join US ICED EARTH, which are looking for new vocalist now.
GAMMA RAY's epic new live album "Skeletons In The Closet" will be released by Metal-Is Records/Sanctuary on Monday, August 25. The final tracklisting for the band's first live release in seven years was voted for by the bands fans themselves on the internet and is as follows: CD 1
1. Welcome 2. Gardens Of The Sinner 3. Rich And Famous 4. All Of The Damned 5. No Return 6. Armageddon 7. Heavy Metal Universe 8. One With The World 9. Dan's Solo
CD 2
1. Razorblade Sigh 2. Heart Of The Unicorn 3. Last Before The Storm 4. Victim Of Fate 5. Rising Star/Shine On 6. The Silence 7. Heaven Or Hell 8. Guardians Of Mankind 9. New World Order
DIMMU BORGIR presented cover picture of their upcoming album "Death Cult Armageddon". As we had written before, it will be released on September the 8th. Tracklist: 1. Allegiance 2. Blood Hunger Doctrine 3. For The World To Dictate Our Death 4. Vredesbyrd (Norwegian lyrics) 5. Cataclysm Children 6. Progenies Of The Great Apocalypse 7. Unorthodox Manifesto 8. Eradication Instincts Defined 9. Allehelgens Dod I Helveds Rike (Norwegian lyrics) 10. Heavenly Perverse 11. Lepers Among Us
German power metalers presented cover picture of their new album "Soundchaser" (artist Joachim Luetke). CD will be released on 29th of September on SPV/Steamhammer Records.
Gore/grinders from UK GOREROTTED signed to Metal Blade Records. Their second full-length album "Only Tools And Corpses" will released in November 2003.
Sweden hardcore/noise BURST signed to Relapse Records. Debut release "Prey Of Life" will appear in autumn this year. Album was recorded in Phlat Planet studio with producer Fredrik Reinedahl.
Finnish band IMPALED NAZARENE have finished recording of their 8th full-length album "All That You Fear". It was recorded at Astia studios, produced by Anssi Kippo and mixed with Mikko Karmila in Finnvox studios. Album includes 13 tracks. CD will be released in October on Osmose Productions.
Deathers from Florida are going to record new album, which will be named "Scars Of The Crucifix". They will enter the studio at the end of July, and release will appear at the end of this year on Earache Records.
These Sweden made third album "Art Of The Insane". It was recorded from January till March 2003 and will be released through Arctic Music Group. Tracklist: 01. Marionettes Of Death 02. Insomnia 03. Prophecies 04. Whitechapel's Murder 05. Art Of The Insane 06. Satanic Thrash Hell 07. A World Of Lies 08. Convicted 09. Below The Surface 10. Born In Sin 11. No More Dawn 12. Haunted Ground 13. Morbid Tales
Debut TARTHARIA material recorded and mixed at ASTIA Studio with Anssi Kippo as Sound Producer (Children Of Bodom, Impaled Nazarene, To/Die/For) and mastered at Finnvox Studio with Mika Jussilla [April, 2003]. The debut is entitled "A Secret Device" and musically strikes the black/death line with tender keyboards.
Black metalers from Sweden released new album "Pieces Of Primal Expressionism", which was recorded and mixed in Dug Out Studio by Daniel Bergstrand and Orjan Ornkloo Tracklist: 1. The Sleeping Star 2. The Cradle Of Civilization 3. Perceptual Dissolution 4. Our Urn 5. The Dldman's Lament 6. The Worm 7. Fragments And Pieces 8. On The Verge Of Prime Divinity.
Album is avaluable worldwide through The End Records.
Baltimore, Maryland-based MISERY INDEX — featuring Jason Netherton (bass/vocals, ex-DYING FETUS), Sparky Voyles (guitar, ex-DYING FETUS, M.O.D.) and Matt Byers (drums) — have finalized the track listing for their debut album, "Retaliate", due on August 25 through Nuclear Blast Records. The album, which was recorded at Wild Studio in St-Zenon, Quebec with producer Jean-Francois Dagenais (KATAKLYSM, MALEVOLENT CREATION), will contain the following songs: 01. Retaliate 02. The Lies That Bind 03. The Great Depression 04. Angst Isst Die Seele Auf 05. Demand The Impossible 06. Order Upheld/Dissent Dissolved 07. Servants of Progress 08. The Unbridgeable Chasm 09. Bottom Feeders 10. History Is Rotten 11. Birth of Ignorance (bonus track)
LOCK UP, the grindcore band featuring NAPALM DEATH bassist Shane Embury, NAPALM DEATH guitarist Jesse Pintado, former AT THE GATES/THE CROWN frontman Tomas Lindberg, and DIMMU BORGIR drummer Nick Barker, will issue an as-yet-untitled live album later in the year through NAPALM DEATH's Feto Records. In addition to the live CD, which was recorded during the group's Japanese tour in June 2002, the band are planning on entering the studio soon to record a limited-edition EP featuring cover versions of songs by POSSESSED and DARK ANGEL, among others.
Competition from HELLOWEEN. Simply answer this question: What's the name of the first single of the current Helloween-chart breaker “Rabbit Don’t Come Easy”? From all correct submissions, we'll draw the winners. Deadline will be August 31, so be quick! Here’s what you may win: 1 ORIGINAL HELLOWEEN GUITAR 10 METALLICA "St. Anger" Ltd. Edition CD + DVD 1 IRON MAIDEN "Visions Of The Beast" Double-DVD 5 IRON MAIDEN "Edward The Great" CD To join the competition, just follow this link '
Polish death metal band announced about activity stopping. It's not known now are they going to end with LUX OCCULTA, but members say, that they end give interviews and take part in concerts.
Sweden epic power have recorded their third full-length album "Domi<>nation". It will be released on the 1st of September on Hammerheart Records. Tracklist: 1. Parallels 2. A Silent Revolution 3. The Second Coming 4. Words I Never Speak 5. Clarity (Fragments Of A Dream) 6. Panopticon 7. The Rising 8. Erase 9. Memorys End 10. Lost Within A Shade(video-track).
The new record-label was founded: Frost Creations (Deadsun subdepartment) specializes on black, death and thrash. First release of new label will be CD "Massive Retaliation" by DARKRISE from Switzerland
Dutches THE GATHERING will record two halfacoustic concerts for new live album, where the best things will be. It will be released at the end of the year on band's own label Psychonaut Records. These two exclusive gigs will be Nijmegen on August, the 21th and 22th.
SOULFLY canceled their Russian tour bacause of recently terroristic act, happend in Moscow during rock show, where 14 people died. SOULFLY is now on European tour with BURNING SPEAR and HATEBREED.
DIMMU BORGIR's drummer Nick Barker (ex-CRADLE OF FILTH) has joined BRUJERIA as replacement of Raymond Herrera (FEAR FACTORY). Band has already planned gig on September, 4th in California, USA.
On August 9 & 10 you should have good rest on the cost of the Black sea in Crimea! We offer you to visit annual METAL HEDS MISSION Open-Air Fest #4 Particiapting bands: DAMNABLE (brutal death grind, Poland) EPITOME (grind, Poland) IMPERIAL FOETICIDE (brutal death grind, Czech) MENTAL DEMISE (brutal death grind, Ukraine) PARRICIDE (brutal death grind, Poland) NECROPSY (brutal death grind, Poland) REST IN PAIN (Psycho Death Metal, Russia) APOCRIPHAL (thrash-death, Belarus) DATURA (brutal death grind, Ukraine) HUNGER DISPATCH (death grind, Ukraine) BLAST (death grind, Ukraine) AGRESSOR (death-thrash, Ukraine) HYPERION (death, Ukraine) + more 2-3 bands One day - near 4$ in local currency Two days - near 6$ in local currency One day/night in camp - 1$ (including a fresh bed linen), Beer - 0,5$, Set meal - 2$ Fest will going: entertainment complex "Sun" that includes: bars, restaurants, parking, camping and places for camps + a lot of other features. boo00ldozzer@ua.fm
Russian label Oscorei Music licenced for CIS and Baltia states beautiful album of cult black-metal/ambient project from Germany. Power and magestic melodies, energy of black and sadness of ambient - all this you'll hear on this CD. Another cover artwork used and also BURZUM cover included specially for this release. Album was released in limited edition of 500 copies. Tracklist: 1. Schneesturm/Einbruch der weissen Dunkelheit 2. Winterschatten 3. Eisige Feuer 4. ...endlos und karg 5. Verschneite Waelder 6. Das ewige Eis Bonus track: 7. Der Tod Wuotans (BURZUM cover)
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Finnish doom metal band REVEREND BIZARRE will have its 2005 classic album "Crush the Insects" re-released in the UK on August 4 via Spinefarm. The UK reissue comes complete with a slipcase plus an enhanced section featuring the video for "Doom over the World".
Finnish metallers KALMAH will release their fifth studio album, "For The Revolution", in the UK on July 14 via Spinefarm. 
"Revolution Renaissance" track listing:
Swedish melodic death metallers DARK TRANQUILLITY have issued the following update: 
American thrash metal monsters TESTAMENT finally confirmed their Russian shows for june with THE FLAMING ARTS Agency.
According to a posting on the CHILDREN OF BODOM fan site Scythes Of Bodom, Spinefarm Records will reissue the band's "Something Wild", "Hatebreeder", "Follow The Reaper" and "Tokyo Warhearts" (live) albums on April 30. The three studio LPs will contain the original songs plus the following bonus material:
"Revelation VI" track listing:
On April 22, Swedish metallers OPETH will release the album version of "Porcelain Heart". You can buy the track from Amazon.com. The band recently filmed a promotional video for an edited version of the song. The clip was directed by Lasse Hoile (PORCUPINE TREE) and shot in Vaxholm, Sweden at the marvellous Bogesund castle, built in the 1640s. The edit was done by Jens Bogren and Mikael Åkerfeldt. 
Сроки выхода сингла "Страшнее меня" окончательно утверждены - вторая половина апреля 2008.
The collector's edition 2-disc CD/DVD set includes three bonus tracks — "Bridge Of Sighs" from ROBIN TROWER's 1974 album of the same title, "Den Ständiga Resan" (sung in Swedish) by Marie Fredriksson as well as the classic ALICE IN CHAINS song "Would?" — 5.1 audio mix of the entire album, extensive video content, and expanded artwork. The limited-edition 180-gram double LP set includes a bonus track, exclusive poster and expanded artwork.
LONG DISTANCE CALLING have been confirmed for the prestigious ROADBURN Festival in Tilburg, Netherlands. 
"For the Revolution" track listing:
"Delusions of Grandeur" tracklisting:
"Prevail" track listing:
Track list: 
FIREWIND guitarist Gus G. has recorded a guest solo for "Redemption", the third album from the Portugese metal/goth rock band HEAVENWOOD, due in September via Recital Records. Gus appears in the track "One Step to Devotion", "matching perfectly HEAVENWOOD's emotive music with is thundering solo!" according to a press release. Also scheduled to appear on the CD is singer Tijs Vanneste of the Belgian progressive metallers OCEANS OF SADNESS. 
“Маятник жизни” tracklist:
After successful show during ROCK PALACE summer fest 2007 in St-Petersburg (Russia) Swedish death metal fathers GRAVE decided to return to Russia to promote their new album called DOMINION VIII. And this time they will hit 8 Russian towns with their uncompromising old school death metal show:
We are proud to announce about our cooperation with the oldest and most respected metal bands from ex-USSR countries called GRENOUER. All albums of band are always some kind of standard of quality, which is mentioned by metal press worldwide. So we are happy to start with GRENOUER management and help them to make step to the next level of their career.
01. Restless
A brand new WALLS OF JERICHO track, entitled "Addicted", has been posted online at ' . The song comes off the Detroit band's forthcoming EP, "Redemption", which will be released on April 29 via Trustkill Records. Produced by Corey Taylor (SLIPKNOT, STONE SOUR) at his Iowa home studio, the CD features "acoustic instruments, fleshed out arrangements, and Taylor's voice on several songs," including the aforementioned "Addicted".
Italian gothic metal band THEATRES DES VAMPIRES will release its new album, "Anima Noir", on May 2 via Aural Music/SPV. The CD was recorded at the Temple of Noise studio in Rome with engineer Christian Ice. According to a press release, "Anima Noir" features "romantic lyrics, lyrical voices, strong orchestration, powerfull guitars and powerful drumming. All the elements that you loved in THEATRES DES VAMPIRES are back in this new production. A new modern sound and a super modern production that took six months of work in the studio for recording and mixing it, offering you the best experience of vampirism as always, with the enchanting vocals of the mistress of your nightmare: Countess Sonya Scarlet, this time with her best performance ever."
14 марта Digimortal дадут концерт в прямом эфире программы "Брать живьем"
телеканала О2ТВ.
FISSION, the collaboration between BORKNAGAR/VINTERSORG frontman Andreas Hedlund (a.k.a. Vintersorg) and VINTERSORG live session drummer Benny "Hägge" Hägglund, has finalized the track listing for its second album, "Pain Parade", due later in the year via Aphotic Records. The CD was mixed at Ballerina Audio with Nils Johansson (VINTERSORG, NAGLFAR, TME). According to a press release, "Pain Parade" will contain "eight brilliant songs that mix the most of [what] metal has to offer."
UK vocalist Blaze Bayley's (ex-IRON MAIDEN, WOLSFBANE) official web site has been updated with the following message:
Long-running Israeli extreme metallers SALEM are putting the finishing touches on a new DVD, entitled "Salem Underground". According to the band, the disc "is a collection of performances from four different shows. The concept for this DVD was to mix the recorded audio (in stereo) but to leave it unedited to maintain the rawest live experience possible."
The up-and-coming modern metal/metalcore band F.R.Y. (St.Petersburg) have
Swedish death metal veterans UNLEASHED have entered the studio to begin recording their ninth full-length album, "Hammer Battalion", due later in the year via SPV Records. According to the band, "The new UNLEASHED album will continue in the same victorious spirit as our previous album 'Midvinterblot'."
Members of '80s German thrash metal cult EXUMER began negotiating a full-fledged reunion for 2009. The projected reunion includes a new album, re-releases of the band's two albums from the 1980s and a substantial tour.
German power metallers HUMAN FORTRESS will release their third album, "Eternal Empire", on April 25 via Massacre Records. The first pressing will be available as a limited-edition double CD featuring a bonus disc containing two bonus tracks, a video clip, outtakes, pictures and much more.
"Of Sacrifice, Loss and Reward", the new single from the Finnish power metallers KIUAS, has entered the ' in the band's home country at position No. 1. The track comes off the group's third album, "The New Dark Age", which is scheduled for release in Finland on March 5.
Italian power metallers KALEDON will enter Outer Sound studios on March 10 with produceer Giuseppe Orlando to begin recording their fifth album, "Legend Of The Forgotten Reign Chapter 5: A New Era Begins", tentatively due in Europe in May/June via Hellion Records. The CD artwork will be designed by Fabrizio Galliccia.
Russian pagan metal band ARKONA will take part in Ragnarök fest as a headliner together with UNLEASHED,
German melodic black/death metallers SUIDAKRA will release their new DVD and "best-of" CD package, "13 Years of Celtic Wartunes", on April 25. The set will include the band's Wacken Open Air 2007 performance, an acoustic concert, and a best-of CD with remastered and newly recorded songs spanning the group's 13-year history.
Sundsvall, Sweden-based death metallers IN BATTLE have issued the following update:
According to a posting on YNGWIE MALMSTEEN's official web site, the legendary Swedish guitarist's long-awaited new CD is now in its final stages of creation, with a tentative release date of July 2008. The new lineup that will take Yngwie's upcoming album on the road is as follows:
Sweden's PAIN has issued the following update from its European tour as the support act for NIGHTWISH:
MIND ODYSSEY, the German metal band featuring RAGE guitarist Victor Smolski, has inked a deal with Napalm Records. The group's new studio album is expected in autumn. Napalm will also re-release the group's complete back catalog with brand new artwork. In the meantime, a "best-of" collection from MIND ODYSSEY will be issued in March via MO Entertainment.
Latvia's SKYFORGER has been confirmed as the headliner of the fifth instalment of the Infernal Damnation Festival, set to take place May 17 at the Camden Underworld in England. Also scheduled to appear are Sweden's ALGAION, London's MATRON, British folk/black metallers FEN, Ireland's FOR RUIN, and UK's NECRO RITUAL.
HATESPHERE was honored in the "Hard Rock" category at the annual Danish Music Awards (the Danish Grammy Awards equivalent). The 40th Danish Music Awards show was held earlier tonight (Saturday, February 23) at Tivoli in Copenhagen, Denmark and was broadcast live on MySpace.
Norwegian black metallers SATYRICON have issued the following update:
Canadian death metallers KATAKLYSM will film a video for the track "Taking the World by Storm" this weekend in New York. The clip will be directed by David Brodsky, who has previously worked with GOD FORBID, GWAR and STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, among others.
Veteran metallers METAL CHURCH have issued the following update:
Finnish melodic metallers SONATA ARCTICA have scheduled the following summer festival appearances:
An audio sample of the new MIDNATTSOL song "Northern Light" is available ' . The track comes off the group's forthcoming second album, entitled "Nordlys" (translated: Northern Light), which will be released via Napalm Records on the following dates:
Boston-based hardcore/metal band BURY YOUR DEAD will release its new self-titled album on March 18 via Victory Records. The band recently returned to Florida's Audiohammer Studios, the exact facility where their previous release, "Beauty and the Breakdown", was recorded. BURY YOUR DEAD also brought back producer Jason Suecof (TRIVIUM, GOD FORBID), continuing with the theme of tradition. BURY YOUR DEAD drummer Mark Castillo previously stated, "All I have to say is the new BURY YOUR DEAD isn't what people are going to expect. You really have to hear this."
CHILDREN OF BODOM's video for the new single "Blooddrunk" can be viewed ' . The clip, which was produced by Katapult Filmproduktion, was shot in the former Nazi barracks in Krampnitz in the vicinity of Berlin, Germany, where the Russian army was stationed before the German reunion.
Norwegian melodic metal band PICTURES OF PAIN will enter Black Dimension studios at the end of February to begin recording its debut album. The CD will contain eight tracks and will be produced by Stein Sund, who has previously worked with THRONE OF KATARSIS and THUNDRA, among others.
Austrian symphonic metal band EDENBRIDGE will release its sixth studio album, "MyEarthDream", on April 25 via Napalm Records. ' was created by Anthony Clarkson, who has previously worked with BLIND GUARDIAN, among other artists.
Wilmington, North Carolina-based rock/post-hardcore band HE IS LEGEND has parted ways with guitarist Mitch Marlow and replaced him with Worth Weaver (FRIENDS FOR HIRE). Marlow left the group after accepting an offer to join the recently reunited FILTER.
"21", the new video from Swedish metallers WITHIN Y, can be viewed ' . The clip was directed by Dino Medanhodzic (guitar player in CARNAL FORGE and SOULBREACH) from Arboga, Sweden.
Swedish melodic black metallers SIEBENBÜRGEN have announced the addition of guitarist Joakim Ohlsson and vocalist Lisa Bohwalli Simonsson to the group's ranks. This 22 year-old-female from Stockholm "just amazed SIEBENBÜRGEN with her vocal performance, resulting in a full membership in the metal act," according to a press release.
The complete track listing of the new TIAMAT album, "Amanethes", which is scheduled for release on April 18 via Nuclear Blast Records, is revealed. The CD was once again produced at Woodhouse Studios in Germany with Siggi Bemm.
SLAYER was honored with a Grammy in the "Best Metal Performance" category in the pre-telecast ceremony at the 50th annual Grammy Awards, which are being held tonight (Sunday, February 10) at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. SLAYER was nominated for the track "The Final Six", from the band's 2007 limited-edition "Christ Illusion". The song, written by SLAYER's vocalist/bassist Tom Araya and guitarist Jeff Hanneman and produced by Josh Abraham, is a chilling look at an hypothesized end of the world. The track made its debut last July as the "Single of the Week" on MySpace where it has since accumulated some 750,000 plays, an astounding number for a song that received no commercial airplay.
Swedish/German extreme metallers ARCH ENEMY have scheduled two shows in Russia in April. Vocalist Angela Gossow comments, "We are very excited to meet our Russian fans! We have heard a lot of crazy stories about YOU — and we sincerely hope they are all true!"
Disc 1 (The Dark Side):
SCUM, the Norwegian/American project featuring Samoth (ZYKLON, ex-EMPEROR), Bard G. Eithun (a.k.a. Faust) (ex-EMPEROR), Happy Tom (TURBONEGRO), Casey Chaos (AMEN) and Cosmocrator (MINDGRINDER), has had its 2005 debut album, "Gospels for the Sick", made available on limited-edition vinyl.
Dutch metallers WARMASTER have inked a deal with Dutch Metal Records. The group's long-awaited debut CD, "First War", will be released on March 24.
Century Media Records has set a February 22 German release date for "Slave to the Dark", a comprehensive box set featuring all 14 CDs plus a DVD covering the band's years as a Century Media recording artist. The set includes the following titles:
"We Rock", the new video from Finnish metallers NORTHER, can be viewed ' .
Awake/Strong will release a hardcore compilation, entitled "Music by People Like Us", on March 25. In the vein of the classic compilations, "Music By People Like Us" is a time stamp of where hardcore is now. The legends that are still going, such as AGNOSTIC FRONT, SICK OF IT ALL, and MADBALL, to the new crop like WISDOM IN CHAINS, EVERYDAY DOLLARS, and BLACKLISTED (28 bands in total), are featured, all with an unreleased or previously released song. Inlay contains write-ins from people all over the world with their thoughts or stories for each band.
Swiss folk metal band ELUVEITIE is streaming its new album, "Slania", in its entirety on the ' . Due in Germany on February 15 via Nuclear Blast Records, the follow-up to 2006's "Spirit" is "the perfection of the first album, but still there is enough room to give some new influences a chance," according to a press release. 'Expect nothing less than a masterpiece of hellish heavy folk metal with an 'x' factor!"
HeavyMetalSource.com conducted an interview with Matt DeVries and Rob Arnold of CHIMAIRA on February 2, 2008 at The Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts. ' .
Finnish folk/pagan metal band MOONSORROW will release a new EP, entitled "Tulimyrsky" (Firestorm), on March 26 through Spinefarm Records. The track listing for the CD is as follows:
Chicago-area psychedelic black metal group NACHTMYSTIUM has posted a new song, entitled "Your True Enemy", on the band's ' . The track comes off NACHTMYSTIUM's new album, "Assassins", due this spring via Candlelight Records in Europe and Century Media in the rest of the world. According to the band, "the [recording] session [for the new CD] was the perfect combination of productive and destructive, and the proof is the music itself."
Finnish progressive metallers ADAMANTRA have posted the song "Shattered" on their ' . The track comes off the group's debut album, which was recently mixed by Mikko Mustonen (best known for his work with NORTHERN KINGS, a band consisting of members of NIGHTWISH and SONATA ARCTICA, among other groups).
Polish avantgarde/metal band ETERNAL DEFORMITY will release its next album, "Frozen Circus", on February 29 via Code666. The CD will be distributed by SPV in Germany and Aural Music in all other territories.
"01011001", the new rock opera from AYREON — the brainchild of Dutch guitarist/composer Arjen Lucassen — has entered the Dutch "alternative chart" at position No. 1 and the overall Dutch album chart at No. 2 — the highest Dutch chart positions so far for any AYREON release! The album also entered the German album chart at number 18, which is the highest ever for AYREON and for any InsideOut Music release. It also entered the Swedish album charts at number 54, and the French charts at number 90 — again the band's highest positions ever in those countries.
Calgary, Alberta, Canada-based metallers DIVINITY recently flimed a video for the song "Plasma" with director Doug Cook. Check out pictures from the video shoot at ' .
Holland's Sworn Records has announced the signing of the Ukrainian dark metal act CAPITOLLIUM.
An e-card for DEATH ANGEL new album, "Killing Season", can be accessed at ' . Due on February 26, 2008 via Nuclear Blast Records, the CD was recorded at Studio 606 in Northridge, California with producer Nick Raskulinecz, who has previously worked with FOO FIGHTERS, RUSH, VELVET REVOLVER, SHADOWS FALL and STONE SOUR, among other acts.
Swedish viking metal act MANEGARM will play Russia for the first time in April. The dates are as follows:
Swedish progressive metal titans OPETH have set "Watershed" as the title of their forthcoming album, due out on June 3 via Roadrunner Records (one day earlier internationally). The CD, recorded in the band's native Sweden and produced by frontman/guitarist Mikael Akerfeldt and Jens Bogren, is a masterwork that follows the time-honored OPETH tradition; its modern yet timeless, progressive yet paying homage to the sounds of classic rock.
Legendary British drummer Nicholas Barker (DIMMU BORGIR, CRADLE OF FILTH, LEAVES' EYES, ATROCITY, BRUJERIA) has laid down the drum tracks for the debut album from the Venezuelan black/death metal band NOCTIS IMPERIUM. Barker arrived in Caracas on January 18 to record his parts for "Glorification of Evil: The Age of the Golden Down", which will be released later in the year via Ariah Records.
FOLKEARTH, an international music project created by musicians playing folk and Viking metal, is preparing to release its fourth album, "Father of Victory" (' ), via Stygian Crypt Productions. The track listing for the CD is as follows:
Former CONSTRUCDEAD/current GODSIC frontman Peter Tuthill has issued the following update:
Vilnius, Lithuania-based pagan metallers OBTEST have inked a deal with Osmose Productions for release of their new album, entitled "Gyvybes Medis". The CD will be distributed in music shops and via independent retailers worldwide, including Japan, Canada, Australia, USA and all of Europe. Ledo Takas, the group's longtime label, has secured an exclusive right to release and distribute new OBTEST album in the Baltic States.
Norwegian symphonic black metallers DIMMU BORGIR were honored in the "Best Video" category at the 36th annual Spellemann awards (the Norwegian equivalent to the Grammy Awards) for their ' . The largest and oldest Norwegian music awards show was held Saturday night (February 2) at the Spektrum in Oslo, Norway and was broadcast live on the Norwegian channel TV2.
Nocturno Culto of the long-running Norwegian black metallers DARKTHRONE has issued the following update:
Legendary Norwegian black metallers MAYHEM were honored in the "Metal" category at the 36th annual Spellemann awards (the Norwegian equivalent to the Grammy Awards) for their latest release, ' . The largest and oldest Norwegian music awards show was held earlier tonight (Saturday, February 2) at the Spektrum in Oslo, Norway and was broadcast live on the Norwegian channel TV2.
Another new DISMEMBER track, entitled "Death Conquers All", has been posted on a special DISMEMBER MySpace page launched by Regain Records. The song comes off the Swedish death metallers' forthcoming self-titled album, due in Europe on February 18 via Regain. The CD was recorded at B.A.S. studios with producer Nico Elgstrand (MURDER SQUAD, KRUX, MERCILESS, ENTOMBED).
Swedish progressive death metallers SKYFIRE have entered Powernest Studios to begin recording its as-yet-untitled follow-up to 2004's "Spectral", due later in the year via Florida's Pivotal Rockordings. Mixing and mastering will be handled by Jonas Kjellgren (SCAR SYMMETRY) at Black Lounge Studios (SONIC SYNDICATE, SCAR SYMMETRY, THE ABSENCE, ZONARIA).
AFM Records has set a March 7, 2008 release date for AVANTASIA's "The Metal Opera - Gold Edition", a two-CD set containing the first two AVANTASIA albums, "The Metal Opera" (2001) and "The Metal Opera Pt. 2" (2002). The package will come in a luxury digibook with golden CDs, 40-sided booklet, liner notes, previously unpublished photos and bonus material.
"Century Media is about to release 'Sand and Mercury', a 10-CD [!] box with all our Century Media releases gathered in a nice box for a fair price (around 30/35 euros). I wrote liner notes for every album. The box set is limited to 3,000 copies. 
JON OLIVA'S PAIN, the band led by SAVATAGE mastermind Jon Oliva, has revealed the cover artwork for its upcoming album, "Global Warning", due in Europe on March 21 via AFM Records (Locomotive Records in the U.S.).
Finnish metallers CHILDREN OF BODOM have revealed the track listing for the new album, "Blooddrunk", due in Europe on April 7, 2008 via Spinefarm Records (two days later in Finland).
According to Revolver magazine, two PANTERA fans — Houston's Joey Riordan and Toronto's Mangra — are trying to get a commemorative "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott statue erected in his hometown in Dallas. As inspiration, they cite existing monuments to Jimi Hendrix (in Seattle), Elvis Presley (in Memphis), and THIN LIZZY frontman Phil Lynott (Dublin, Ireland). "Getting Dimebag Darrell a statue in Dallas matters," Riordan tells Revolver. "That was, his memory will live on."
01. Emptiness
Australian atmospheric/gothic/doom metal band THE ETERNAL has issued the following update:
01. Open Your Eyes
Portuguese metal/goth rock band HEAVENWOOD has inked a deal with Recital Records. The group will enter the studio in February/March 2008 to begin recording its third album for a late spring/early summer release. 
Swedish melodic death metallers DARK TRANQUILLITY have issued the following update:
On December 5, NIGHTWISH will release a Finland-only single, "Erämaan Viimeinen" (Last of the Wilds). "Erämaan Viimeinen" is the instrumental "Last of the Wilds" off "Dark Passion Play", but with Finnish lyrics, courtesy of Jonsu from the all-girl pop/rock band INDICA, who will open for NIGHTWISH in Scandinavia.
WITHIN TEMPTATION vocalist Sharon den Adel and LEAVES' EYES singer Liv Kristine performed with DELAIN on November 2 at Broerenkerk in Zwolle, Holland. They reprised their respective guest vocalist roles from DELAIN's 2006 debut album, "Lucidity". Watch fan-filmed video footage from the concert below.
"Haunting" track listing:
"Downburst" track listing:
Sweden's TIAMAT will release its new album "Amanethes", on April 18, 2008 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD will be mixed at Studio Woodhouse in Hagen, Germany in January.
Veteran San Francisco Bay Area metallers TESTAMENT have set "The Formation of Damnation" as the title of their new album, tentatively due in early 2008 via Nuclear Blast Records. the band is currently recording the drums tracks with producer Andy Sneap (MACHINE HEAD, EXODUS, ARCH ENEMY, NEVERMORE) at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California.
Official Myspace page (' )
"Requiem – Fortissimo" track listing:
"The Scarecrow" track listing:
MANOWAR drummer Scott Columbus has told Brazil's NovoMetal.com that he is working on his first solo album.
CD1 - Y:
This message is from the official site of DECAPITATED.
"Destiny" tracklisting:
It will be released by "Sound Age Productions"
"Land of the Free II" track listing:
Dutch/Swedish alternative rock band DIAL, featuring bass player/vocalist/guitarist Kristoffer Gildenlöw (formerly of PAIN OF SALVATION), vocalist/bassist LiLo and guitarist Rommert van der Meer, will make its video for the song ' on Friday, October 26 via the group's MySpace and YouTube pages. The clip was created by the Dutch media company D'iMages, which has previously worked with AYREON, STAR ONE, SHADOW GALLERY, AFTER FOREVER, STREAM OF PASSION and LA-VENTURA, among others.
"Lost in Space Part 1":
"Lost in Space Part 2":
Tracklisting: 
Finnish folk metallers KORPIKLAANI have issued the following update:
"Ninewinged Serpent" track listing:
Ukrainian label PaS Records presents long-awaited release of russian Black/Death metal band REDRUM "Mephisto Opressor". 40 minute opus,
"The Blue" track listing:
Fire Walk With Me (Single-Version)
"The Codex" tracklisting:
The track list goes as follows:
1. Intro: Greater Wrath
Ben Moody and David Hodges, the duo behind the EVANESCENCE hit songs "Bring Me To Life" and "Fallen", have teamed up again to write and produce the new CELINE DION song "This Time", set to appear on her new album, "Taking Chances", due out November 13 on Columbia.
The St.Petersburg band F.R.Y. (Modern Melodic Death Metal / Metalcore) has released the Internet single "Illusions.ru".
AYREON, the brainchild of Dutch guitarist/composer Arjen Lucassen, has posted audio samples (' , ' ) of the next two guest singers who will appear on the band's upcoming album, tentatively due late 2007/early 2008: Phideaux Xavier and AFTER FOREVER frontwoman Floor Jansen. Other vocalists scheduled to appear on the CD include Bob Catley (MAGNUM), Anneke van Giersbergen (THE GATHERING), Jonas P. Renske (KATATONIA), Jorn Lande (MASTERPLAN), Tom S. Englund (EVERGREY), Ty Tabor (KING'S X), Magali Luyten (VIRUS IV), Simone Simons (EPICA) and Liselotte Hegt (DIAL). A total of fifteen singers have been confirmed to guest on the album, with more to be added. 
"Immortalis" track listing:
SPV has set an October 12 German release date for Moonspell's new CD, "Under SatanÆ", which consists of re-recordings of the band's legendary Ep "Under the Moonspell" (1994) as well as their first demo "Anno SatanÆ" and their sole track as Morbid God, "Serpent Angel". All songs were re-arranged and revamped in order to "underline their revered distinction as underground classics but now with a mature dark energy and class," according to a press release. "The full-length Cd (eight songs and around five instrumental compositions) was recorded at Denmark's Antfarm Studios with Tue Madsen (The Haunted, Dark Tranquillity, Rob Halford)."
01. Renovatti
Guitarist Steve Smyth has officially parted ways with NEVERMORE, citing personal and business differences. 
On U.D.O.'s official site, there is the following announcement :
"Appointment with Death" tracklisting:
Трек-лист альбома: 
HELLOWEEN are about to release their twelfth studio album, entitled "Gambling With The Devil" on October 23, 2007 (USA), October 26, 2007 (Germany) and October 29, 2007 (rest of Europe). The producer of this new release will be once again Charlie Bauerfeind. HELLOWEEN recorded at the Mi Sueno studios in Tenerife. Tracklisting has not yet been revealed. Check the album's cover below.
The track listing is as follows:
What must see the one who looks into the Abyss? The journey to the other side of reality - what is it like? Definitely you would never get an answer - the
"Revolution Begins" track listing:
FALCONER recently extended its deal with Metal Blade for another four albums. The group is currently writing material for its new CD, which will feature "slightly faster and with more unexpected turns," according to guitaris Stefan Weinerhall. "The lyrics will all be about Swedish medieval life and episodes. Not a concept album really but still something in that direction. What I decided early on what that it wouldn't become 'Northwind Pt. 2'. 'Northwind' is as good as it can be, therefore we'll make things a tad different this time." FALCONER's fifth studio album, "Northwind" • the group's first since the departure of singer Kristoffer Göbel and return of Mathias Blad • was released last September via Metal Blade Records.
"The Dying Wonders of the World" track listing:
"Faith" track listing:
The full tracklisting is:
APOCALYPTICA's new song "SOS", featuring a guest appearance by LACUNA COIL frontwoman Cristina Scabbia, has been posted on the APOCALYPTICA ' page. The track comes off the group's new album, "Worlds Collide", due in Germany, Austria and Switzerland on September 14 via G.U.N. Records. 
01. Meine Seele Brennt
RAGE has issued the following update revealing the title of their forthcoming album:
"Since the rumour did alarm people that Till Lindemann would leave Rammstein after the release of the upcoming album, we are pleased to inform you that after consulting Rammstein manager Emanuel Fialik, the so-called news turns out being a fake.
The full tracklisting will be:
Drummer Eric Singer (KISS, ALICE COOPER) revealed during a recent interview with rock and roll comic C.C. Banana at the 21st annual NY/NJ Kiss Expo that Alice Cooper has recorded a guest appearance on "The Scarecrow", the third installment of EDGUY frontman Tobias Sammet's AVANTASIA solo project. According to Singer, Michael Schenker (ex-UFO, SCORPIONS) and Michael's brother Rudolf (SCORPIONS) will also appear on the album, which features Eric on drums, Tobias on bass, and former MASTERPLAN/ARK frontman Jorn Lande and Amanda Somerville (the American singer-songwriter and vocal coach who is better known for her collaborations with various European metal bands, including EPICA, AFTER FOREVER and EDGUY) on additional vocals. More guest appearances are expected to be announced soon. 
"The Fourth Season" track listing:
"Legion Of Swords" track listing:
"Lurking Fear" track listing:
Former THE GATHERING singer Anneke van Giersbergen has launched a web site for her new band called AGUA DE ANNIQUE. Currently available for streaming on the site (in the "Listen" section) are two full-length tracks — "Day After Yesterday" and "Beautiful One". A "beautiful" animated music video for the song "Day After Yesterday" is also in the works. 
Finnish cello-rockers APOCALYPTICA have set "Worlds Collide" as the title of their new album, due in Germany, Austria and Switzerland on September 14 via G.U.N. Records. The first single, "I'm Not Jesus", featuring a guest appearance by Corey Taylor (SLIPKNOT, STONE SOUR), will precede the album on August 31. Other confirmed guest musicians on the CD include Dave Lombardo (SLAYER), Tomoyasu Hotei (superstar Japanese composer, whose credits include the "Kill Bill" soundtrack), Joseph Duplantier (GOJIRA) and Cristina Scabbia (LACUNA COIL). Backing vocals for the effort were laid down by Swedish singer Mats Levén (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, THERION, KRUX, TREAT, AT VANCE).
ARCH ENEMY vocalist Angela Gossow's official web site has been updated with several new picture galleries, including childhood photos and pictures of Angela's pre-ARCH ENEMY band ASMODINA. Check them out at ' .
SODOM's new album, "The Final Sign of Evil", is scheduled for release in September via SPV Records, according to the group's webmaster Toto, who is also producing the CD. The album will feature re-recordings of the material from the German thrashers' classic first EP, "In the Sign of Evil", plus no less than seven bonus tracks, all of which were originally written during the "In the Sign of Evil" era or earlier but were never officially released. As a special bonus, the album will feature return appearances by the group's original drummer Chris Dudek (a.k.a. Witchhunter) and guitarist Josef "Peppi" Dominic (a.k.a. Grave Violator), both of whom were featured on the original 1984 EP. 
Hamburg, Germany-based brutal melodic death metallers DARK AGE have revealed the cover artwork for their new album, entitled "Minus Exitus". Check it out at www.metal.de. The artwork was created by Niklas Sundin from DARK TRANQUILLITY.
According to MelodicRock.com, guitarist Nikolo Kotzev (of BRAZEN ABBOT and NOSTRADAMUS fame) has announced the launch of the official homepage of his new mega-project called DRACONIA. This conceptual work will be recorded with eight lead singers, rock band and a symphonic orchestra. Kotzev is the author of the story, the music and the orchestra arrangements. Besides playing the guitars, he will produce the entire recording. On the web site you can learn everything about the project, read the story, listen to exclusive excerpts of the working demos, discuss issues related to the project and even suggest singers for each role. The project is underway and is expected to be completed sometime next year.
"Prominence and Demise" track listing:
LUCYFIRE, the side project of TIAMAT mastermind Johan Edlund, earlier in the year completed work on a new demo with producer and TIAMAT drummer Lars Sköld. According to Edlund,"we have plenty of songs," but the CD that wassent out to prospective labels contained the following four cuts:
' . 
The organizers of the ProgPower USA VIII festival, which is scheduled for October 5-6 at Atlanta's Center Stage, have announced the details of a special "mystery" show, to be held Wednesday night (October 3) in Vinyl's (a.k.a. the Vendor's Room) with karaoke to follow afterwards.
"Fields of Rot" final track listing:
01. When Alpha And Omega Collide
01. The Poet And The Pendulum
A single, "Amaranth", will precede the album on August 24 (Nuclear Blast) and August 22 (Spinefarm/Universal). It will be available in several different versions, the details of which will be announced later.
"The Divine Conspiracy" final track listing:
HELLOWEEN drummer Dani Löble has re-entered singer Andi Deris' Mi Sueno Studios in Tenerife, Spain to resume the recording sessions for the band's new album with longtime producer Charlie Bauerfeind (BLIND GUARDIAN, SAXON). Tentatively titled "Gambling with the Devil", HELLOWEEN's 12th studio LP is scheduled for release on Halloween (October 31). A world tour in support of the CD will start mid-November in Europe, to be followed by visits to Southeast Asia, North and South America in the first half of 2008. 
"David Readman" track-listing:
Dutch rock act THE GATHERING has launched a vocalist search following the recent departure of Anneke van Giersbergen. Interested male and female vocalists are invited to send a short bio and one or two MP3s to audition@gathering.nl.
"Silent Waters" track listing:
01. Fashioned From Dust
"The Scythe" track listing:
FATES WARNING's classic 1988 album "No Exit" will be re-released in September via Metal Blade Records. The reissue will contain a remastered version of the original album plus the following bonus material:
Nearly ten years since X JAPAN's New Year's "farewell" concert and nine years after the death of the band's influential lead guitarist Hideto "Hide" Matsumoto, X JAPAN has officially reformed and is planning a new tour and single, tentatively due before the end of 2007. 
Swedish singer Mats Levén (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, THERION, KRUX, TREAT, AT VANCE) has just finished laying down backing vocals for the new APOCALYPTICA album with producer Jacob Hellner (RAMMSTEIN). 
Finnish goth metallers H.I.M. have reportedly set September 4 as the new release date for their follow-up to 2005's "Dark Light", entitled "Venus Doom". The band's sixth studio CD was recorded at the Finnvox facility in Helsinki with producer Tim Palmer and was mixed in California. 
Garden Of Exile Records will release "Hope", the latest album by Finnish doomsters SWALLOW THE SUN, as a double LP. The vinyl release will contain an AMORPHIS cover as a bonus track, featuring a guest appearance by AMORPHIS vocalist Tomi Joutsen. Says the label: "You can expect some nice-colored heavyweight vinyl in a deluxe gatefold cover." 
"Drakkars In The Mist" track-listing::
"Isolate" track listing:
We are proud to announce the first in Eastern Europe THE FLAMING ARTS FESTIVAL TOUR which will take place in biggest towns of Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. First confirmed bands for festival are VADER, ROTTING CHRIST, KRISIUN, INCANTATION and young UK thrash band AMENTI. More bands will be announced soon.
Finnish/Swedish symphonic metal band NIGHTWISH has released three more samples from its forthcoming album, due in September. In addition to first single, "Eva", you can now check out short clips of the songs "7 Days to the Wolves", "Master Passion Greed" and "Amaranth":
Mnemosyne Productions has announced a brand new musical collaboration between EMPEROR frontman Ihsahn, Starofash (a.k.a. Ihsahn's wife Heidi S. Tveitan, a.k.a. Ihriel) and one of Norway's most well known folk musicians, Knut Buen. The project is called HARDINGROCK and the album is titled "Grimen". 
01. New Protection
01. Serpent Saints 
"Ithyphallic" track listing:
Swedish multi-instrumentalist Snowy Shaw (THERION, DREAM EVIL, KING DIAMOND, MERCYFUL FATE, MEMENTO MORI, NOTRE DAME) is currently recording session drums for the debut album of an as-yet-unnamed Gothenburg-based project. According to a posting on Snowy's web site, "style-wise is very much in the vein of CANDLEMASS, MEMENTO MORI, KING DIAMOND and NOTRE DAME. Last autumn Snowy did lead and backing vocals for several tracks on the album. The CD, titled "Opera Diabolicus", will be mixed in June by KING DIAMOND guitarist Andy La Rocque at Andy's Los Angered Recordings.
"The Apostasy" track listing:
BoardPusher.com is currently selling several different DEATH ANGEL skateboard decks, all priced at $54.99. More information is available ' . 
Brazilian singer Renato Tribuzy has recorded a guest appearance on the "Soul Spell" metal opera project. The CD, which also features some of the best musicians on the Brazilian heavy metal scene — including Edu Falaschi (ANGRA), Leandro Caçoilo, Christian Passos, Mario Linhares, Nando Fernades, Iuri Sanson and Bruno Maia — is being produced by Tito Falaschi, Edu Falaschi's brother. Renato sang the part of Aquiles in the song called "Troy". He commented, "I really enjoyed being a part of this project. When I first heard the albums tracks I was surpised by the fantastic quality of the production, songs and musicians." 
THERION mainman Christofer Johnsson has posted the following message on the band's web site: 
Part I: Live-Shows
A brand new KING DIAMOND song, entitled "Never Ending Hill", is available for free download ' . The track comes off the group's long-awaited new album, "Give Me Your Soul ... Please", which will be released in North America on June 26 via Metal Blade Records. Massacre Records will issue the album in Germany on June 29. The cover artwork has been posted online ' .
Polish black/death metal band DARZAMAT will release its first-ever live DVD, entitled "Live Profanity (Visiting the Graves of Heretics)", in Europe on June 25 via Metal Mind Productions. The disc was recorded at the 21st edition of the Metalmania Festival, which took place on March 24 in Katowice, Poland, and will contain material comprised mostly of songs from the band's latest album, "Transkarpatia". Also included will be the group's surprise performance of the song "Diabelski Dom" by the cult Polish metal band KAT, featuring a guest appearance by KAT leader Roman Kostrzewski. The DVD will also includes additional footage from the Winternachtstraum Festival, which took place in February 2007 in Arnsberg, Germany, two unreleased tracks, video clips, and an interview with Flauros and Nera.
The cover artwork of NIGHTWISH's new single, entitled "Eva", has been posted online ' . Due on May 30, "Eva" will be an Internet-only single release, all profits from which shall be donated to charity. In Finland, the single will be available exclusively from NetAnttila. The identity of the group's new singer will be revealed simultaneously in a press statement and on the band's web site, www.nightwish.com, on the same day. A radio promo of the Internet single will also ship on May 30.
Reactivated Dutch metallers GOREFEST will release their new album, "Rise to Ruin", in the U.S. on August 28 via Nuclear Blast Records (August 3 in Europe). The CD was mixed by Danish producer Tue Madsen at his Antfarm studios in Århus, Denmark. "He managed to make everything sound even heavier than we'd imagined," guitarist Frank Harthoorn previously said. Cover artwork will be designed by British artist Rob "Mid" Middleton.
"Silent Waters" single track listing:
Swedish vocalist Mats Levén (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, THERION, KRUX, TREAT, AT VANCE) has commented on his decision to leave THERION prior to the band's appearance at this year's Wacken Open Air festival in early August. His replacement in the group will be Thomas Vikström, who is best known to metal fans as the voice behind CANDLEMASS' "Chapter VI" album (1992).
"Forgotten Prophecies" track listing:
Metal Bash Open Air 2005:
01. Dirty Wings (feat. Tobias Sammet)
German black/death/gothic metallers AGATHODAIMON have announced the addition of Jonas Iscariot (vocals) and Jan Jansohn (guitar) to the group's ranks. "After a bunch of rehearsals with the new guys, we feel that we now have the strongest lineup ever and can't wait to hit the stage again!" the band said in a statement.
"VII" track listing:
TESTAMENT's previously announced Russian dates, which were scheduled to take place in early July, have been postponed. The new dates have not yet been announced.
Finnish cello-rockers APOCALYPTICA have just finished filming a video in Los Angeles with director Tony Petrossian (AVENGED SEVENFOLD, RISE AGAINST, SLIPKNOT) for the song "I'm Not Jesus". Making a guest appearance in the track and the clip is STONE SOUR/SLIPKNOT frontman Corey Taylor. 
Q: „Mabool” was the last album that was released in 2004. Since then, there hasn't been any news coming from you. I know you are working on a new album called "The Neverending Way Of ORwarriOR". Would you say that the new album will mark the path to entering into a new Orphaned Land Universe?
"Paid in Full" tracklisting:
WYKKED WYTCH has posted the cover artwork for its upcoming album, "Memories of a Dying Whore" on its web site. The album artwork and booklet were designed by Alexandra V. Bach, based on a concept by WYKKED WYTCH.
"Black Rain" track listing:
On October 27th NUCLEAR BLAST will celebrate its 20th anniversary and therefore throws a nice party. For 45 euros only (excl. Pre-sale fee) you will be able to see BLIND GUARDIAN, DIMMU BORGIR, SUBWAY TO SALLY, KATAKLYSM plus one more top act and several special guests and surprises. The party will take place at Stuttgart ґs Schleyerhalle and the first 1000 people ordering a ticket via http://shop.nuclearblast.de will get a limited festival shirt for free. There will also be the festival-page www.nuclearblast-festival.de shortly on air, where you can read all news and all infos you need. 
For the recording to their first live DVD at Metal Female Voices Festival, LEAVESґEYES had a very special idea. Instead of playing on a regular stage, they have opted to build a 10-meter long Viking ship, in accordance to the theme of Vinland Saga & Legend Land. On this ship, the band will perform their live-show.
Dutch female-fronted symphonic metal band EPICA has signed a deal with Nuclear Blast Records. 
May, 26 - presentation of the new concert program of Russian metal band ARKONA.
Ukrainian thrash metal maniacs HELLION have finished the work on their first video for song "Hear the Voice" from debut album "Strong Enough". Director is Viktor Priduvalov.
WYKKED WYTCH has issued the following update:
Message from THE GATHERING:
The traditional heavy metal band HEREGE posted new versions of the songs "Call Me Herege" and "Flag of the Metal", originally released in the 2003 demo Rise of the Fair, Fall of the Church. 
Jens Ryden, one man army of PROFUNDI (ex Naglfar vocalist) seems to be into collector's items.
According to the Finnish newspaper Helsingin Sanomat, Timo Tolkki (STRATOVARIUS), Tomi Putaansuu (a.k.a. Mr. Lordi; LORDI), Marco Hietala (NIGHTWISH, TAROT), Janne Joutsenniemi (SUBURBAN TRIBE), Tony Kakko (SONATA ARCTICA) and Jarkko Ahola (TERДSBETONI) are among the metal musicians who will contribute material to the upcoming debut album from the winner of the Finnish national TV talent competition "Idols", 22-year-old heavy metal singer Ari Koivunen. The CD will be produced by Nino Laurenne (THUNDERSTONE) and Pasi Heikkilд (45 DEGREE WOMAN) and is tentatively scheduled for release in Finland on June 6.
Omnibus Press will publish Neil Daniels' book "Defenders of the Faith: The True Story of Judas Priest" book in September. According to the book's official description, "Defenders of the Faith" — which is said to be "the first definitive biography of the metal Gods" — "reveals how a group of poor, working-class lads followed in their heroes footsteps.”
Norwegian extreme metal band ARCTURUS has posted the following message on its web site:
1) Necrodeath – Master Of Morphine 
"Mastercutor" tracklist:
"Suicide Service" трек-лист:
"Another Stranger Me" track-listing:
"Xenosapien" track listing: 
"The Black Circus Part 2 - Disclosure" track listing:
Danish metallers PYRAMAZE and former ICED EARTH singer Matt Barlow have issued separate statements confirming that Barlow has joined the group as its new frontman following the departure of Lance King.
DREAM THEATER's new album, "Systematic Chaos", will be released on Tuesday, June 5 (date may vary in different countries) through Roadrunner and will be available in two formats: regular-edition CD (cover) and a special-edition CD and DVD (cover).
01. In The Presence of Enemies Pt. 1 (9:00)
DIMMU BORGIR presents the ultimate collector`s item:
British funeral doom metallers ESOTERIC have announced the addition of drummer Joe Fletcher to the group's ranks. After 18 months, the guys finally found someone suitably talented and disturbed to join them. ESOTERIC looks forward to working with him both live and in the studio.
German power metallers PRIMAL FEAR have set "New Religion" as the title of their new album, due on August 31 via Frontiers Records. The complete track listing for the CD is as as follows (in no particular order):
01. Solar Soul
The new King Diamond CD will be entitled "Gimme Your Soul ... Please".The CD contains 13 tracks and the song titles are as follows:
NILE mainman Karl Sanders has issued the following update: «We are currently finishing the mixes on the new NILE album, entitled “Ithyphallic”, our first album for Nuclear Blast. There are nine songs and one short acoustic piece. A few songtitles: “Language Of The Shadows”, “Even The Gods Must Die”, “The Infinity Of Stone”, “Ithyphallic”, “Papyrii Containg The Spell To Preserve Its Possessor Against Attacks From He Who Is In The Water”.»
Black metallers ABIGOR have unveiled the artwork for their new album, "Fractal Possesion". The CD will be released in Europe on May 2 and the U.S. on June 5.
According to Metal Sludge, WHITE LION has been added to the POISON/RATT summer tour, which is tentatively scheduled to kick off June 12. This information, however, has not yet been confirmed by an official source.
Singer Christopher Schmid has left the German gothic rockers LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE due to personal reasons. 
According to ROLLING STONE magazine, OZZY's new album will be entitled "Black Rain" and it will be released on June 2007. The first single from the album will be "I don't want to stop" and we will be able to hear it online on the 13th of April through OZZY's official site.
The original lineup of EXTREME will reunite for a benefit concert and auction in New York City in honor of music manager Steven Hoffman who work for the legendary Leber Krebs organization (AC/DC, SCORPIONS, AEROSMITH). His first big professional success was his discovery of Extreme; Steve was a key player in their runaway ride to the top of the rock charts with 'More Than Words' and their achievement of household-name status. Steve passed away at the age of 38 on October 26, 2003 at Toronto's Princess Margaret Hospital. The event will take place on May 18th at the Canal Room (285 West Broadway) from 7:00 to 10:30 p.m. Other bands scheduled to play at the event include VALENTINE, EVOLUTION, THE ILLEGITIMATE SONS OF THE BLUES BROTHERS and a star-studded lineup of musicians to be announced. A live and silent auction will also be held to raise funds for lung cancer research.
01. Running Riot
The cover artwork for ICED EARTH's upcoming EP, "Overture of the Wicked", has been posted online at IcedEarth.com. The art was created by Felipe Machado of Final Frontier Digital Art and Nathan Perry. Due on June 5 via SPV (one day earlier internationally), the CD will feature the following track listing:
01. Prologue
01. By Your Command
KAMELOT will release its new album, "Ghost Opera" on the following dates: Germany: June 1; Europe: June 4; USA: June 5.
Austrian symphonic metal band EDENBRIDGE will issue a rarities/"best of" compilation, entitled "The Chronicles of Eden", as a double-CD and limited double-digipack on May 25. Disc One will contain three new, previously unreleased songs, all Japanese and European bonus tracks and songs that were included on all out-of-print singles. Disc Two will include a "best of" selection out of the five released studio albums. The track listing is as follows:
01. Once upon a Time
SALIVA have unleashed the new video for their hit single “Ladies and Gentlemen.” The video features two models from Godsgirls.com, squaring off in a boxing ring in only bikinis and boxing gloves.
The black-art band Medievil (http://medievil.net) and the recording label from Kyiv Griffin Music (http://griffinmusic.org) are about to present the full-length album “Atruta”
Static-X is breaking out of Hell’s sub-basement to release their fifth studio album, Cannibal, on April 3rd. Comprising 12 of the harshest, most stripped-down tracks Static-X have ever recorded, Cannibal also finds frontman Wayne Static & Co. sounding leaner and meaner than they have in years—a change the vertical-haired guitarist, vocalist and chief songwriter attributes to the back-to-basics approach they took to recording the album. “I think it’s the most metal record we’ve ever made, and it’s arguably the heaviest record we’ve ever made,” Static explains.
01. Out of the Darkness
Guitarist Anthony Nichols of Boston metallers MELIAH RAGE has been busy writing music for the band's next record, tentatively due before the end of the year. According to the group, "the music thus far is heavier and more riff-oriented than the last two releases, but has all the elements of classic MELIAH RAGE." A remastered release of the 1996 classic "Death Valley Dream" is also in the works for this spring.
01. The Ballad Of Solomon Eagle
Swiss metal experimentalists SAMAEL have moved forward the release date of their eighth album, "Solar Soul" (Nuclear Blast), to June 1 from the previously announced June 15. The CD will contain the following track listing: 
ICED EARTH mainman Jon Schaffer has sent the following update to BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
On April 13th, 2007 long-running British gothic metal leaders PARADISE LOST will release the first single taken off their much anticipated upcoming Century Media Records debut "In Requiem", which sees the band combine the classic heaviness of "Draconian Times" with the melodic feel of their more recent studio albums. The new single "The Enemy" will only be released in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy.
"Vargstenen" projected track listing:
"Emission Phase" track listing:
"Dominator" track listing:
1. ВОЗЬМИ МЕНЯ К ВОРОТАМ ВАВИЛОНА (музыка - Mission, текст - Пушкина)
The "Energize Me" single is due on March 23, featuring the songs "Energize Me" (radio edit), "Energize Me" (album version), "Sweet Enclosure" (non-album track).
"Hell Destroyer" track listing:
Finnish folk metallers KORPIKLAANI have uploaded an audio sample from their upcoming fourth album, "Tervaskanto", ' .
01. The Snake and The Way
"Fiction" track listing:
AFTER FOREVER guitarist/songwriter Sander Gommans has issued the following update on his HDK project:
SIEGES EVEN will enter the studio in May to begin recording its new album, "Paramount", for a September release via Inside Out Music. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Paramount", "Duende", "Leftovers", "Tidal", "A Wallflower on the Day of Saint Juliana", "The Valparaiso Dreaming", "Where our Shadows Sleep" and "These Rooms Have No Memories". 
01. The Serpentine Offering
01. Overture To The Hymn Of The Immortal Warriors
"Release Date" track listing:
MORGANA LEFAY will release a new single, entitled "Over and Over Again", on February 26 via Black Mark. Also included on the single will be the new cut "Face of Fear". Both tracks come off the band's new album, "Aberrations of the Mind", due on March 19. Check out audio samples ' . Two more songs from the CD — "The Rush of Possession" and "Reflections of War" — are available for listening on the band's web site, www.morganalefay.se.
"Requiem - Mezzo Forte" track listing:
ANTIMATTER have just finished working on their fourth studio album "Leaving Eden". After Duncan Patterson left the band in 2005, Mick Moss gathered a number of guest musicians around him - among others Danny Cavanagh (ANATHEMA) - to record the most depressive and heaviest album of ANTIMATTER's discography. This is attested by the dynamics of "Leaving Eden", the increased use of electric guitars and forceful drumming. 
Canadian metallers ANNIHILATOR have inked a deal with King Records for the Japanese release of their new album, "Metal". An April 11 release is expected.
According to Tangra Mega Rock, French-Austrian dark neoclassical act ELEND will release its long-awaited sixth full-length album, "A World in Their Screams", on April 23 through Holy Records. 
Swedish black metallers MARDUK have set "Rom 5:12" as the title of their new album, tentatively due this spring. Check out the cover artwork at this location. The CD was recorded at Endarker studio and features guest appearances by ARDITI (the project formed by H. Moller from PUISSANCE and M. Bjorkman), Joakim Göthberg (who played drums on the first two MARDUK albums and sang on the group's second and the third LPs) on a track entitled "Cold Mouth Prayer", and Alan "Nemtheanga" Averill from Irish band PRIMORDIAL on the song "Accuser/Opposer".
Вritish gothic metallers PARADISE LOST have set "In Requiem" as the title of their 11th album, tentatively due for release in May via Century Media Records. The artwork for the CD will be created by Seth Siro Anton, who was the artwork designer for the group's last album, "Paradise Lost".
01. Doomsday 
Swiss hard rockers GOTTHARD entered the studio late last year with producers Leo Leoni and Ronald Prent (who worked with the band on their last effort, "Lipservice") to begin recording their new album, entitled "Domino Effect". An early summer release is expected.
In a recent interview with Spain's Laestadea.com, MASTERPLAN guitarist Roland Grapow has confirmed plans for a collaborative project with his ex-HELLOWEEN bandmates Michael Kiske (vocals) and Kai Hansen (guitar, vocals). An excerpt from the chat follows:
01. Superior Existence
Legendary German progressive thrash outfit MEKONG DELTA has set "Lurking Fear" as the title of its upcoming "comeback" album, tentatively due later in the year. Working songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Rules of Corruption", "Society of Fear", "Ratters", "Shadow of Truth" and "Immortal Hate".
The tracklist of "Pins & Needles" will be as follows: 
According to the web site of the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, CRIMSON GLORY frontman John Patrick Jr. "Midnight" McDonald was arrested last Saturday night, January 20 in Sarasota, Florida and charged with "DUI [driving under the influence] with .20 [blood-alcohol level] or higher or having a passenger under 18" years of age. He was also cited for driving with a suspended/cancelled/revoked license. Bond for the 44-year-old vocalist — who gave his occupation as "painter" to the authorities at the time of the arrest — was set at $1,500. He is scheduled to be arraigned on February 8.
"Slavior" track listing:
"The Origins of Ruin" track listing:
"A New Disease Is Born" track listing:
Long-running Italian metallers WHITE SKULL have finally confirmed that they have parted ways with singer Gus Gabarrò (as BLABBERMOUTH.NET first reported on Oct. 19, 2006). Replacing Gabarrò in the group's current lineup is female vocalist Elisa "Over" De Palma.
"Victory Songs" track listing:
01. Gryning
"The Heart of Everything" track listing:
KORN "Unplugged" track listing:
EDGUY frontman Tobias Sammet has confirmed via his official web site that he is currently working on the third installment of his solo project AVANTASIA. "Again it's going to be a conceptual album with different musicians and singers," he writes. 
Swedish metallers DREAMLAND have set "Eye for an Eye" (cover) as the title of their second album, due on January 26, 2007 via Dockyard 1. The CD was recorded at Joacim Cans' (HAMMERFALL) Moonshine Studio and Andy LaRocque's (KING DIAMOND) Los Angered Recording, where the album was also mixed. The group is promising that the effort will follow the melodic-yet-heavy style of their first release, "Future's Calling" (2005) "but will maybe also surprise the listener here 'n' there." Working titles set to appear on the CD include "Forever and Ever", "Into The Fire", "Shadows of the Night", "Carousel of Pain" and "Chosen Ones".
01. Mine For The Taking
ANATHEMA mastermind Daniel Cavanagh has issued the following update:
01. The Messenger
Frontman Buddy Lackey (a.k.a. Devon Graves; ex-PSYCHOTIC WALTZ) of DEADSOUL TRIBE has issued the following update:
"6 Days to Nowhere" (view cover at StayMetal.net) track listing:
01. Humanaut
Finnish melodic thrashers HEVEIN have been confirmed for the tenth-anniversary edition of Germany's Summer Breeze festival, set to take place August 16-18, 2007 in Dinkelsbühl. The festival billing is shaping up as follows (in alphabetical order):
PAIN OF SALVATION's Daniel Gildenlöw (vocals/ guitar) and Johan Hallgren (guitar) will perform an exclusive acoustic show at the Rock Hard Greece party on January 21, 2007 at the Underworld Club in Athens, Greece. They will also present their new album, "Scarsick", which is due on January 22 via Inside Out. All attendees will get CDs, posters and various other giveaways. A DJ set from the editors of Rock Hard magazine will follow this event and many other surprises will take place. Stay tuned and check ' , as a huge competition will take place in which two winners will have dinner with the band the night before the show. Entrance to this event is 15 euros (beer included).
"Tarot" track listing:
Guitarist Thomas Youngblood of the American/Norwegian melodic metallers KAMELOT has issued the following update:
Former BLIND GUARDIAN drummer Thomen Stauch, who was unable to perform any shows this year with his new bands, SAVAGE CIRCUS and COLDSEED, due to an unspecified medical/psychological condition, has issued the following update:
DIMENSION F3H, the Norwegian death metal band led by Morfeus (LIMBONIC ART), has lined up the following dates:
Death metal legends MASTER have been added to the previously announced DERANGED European headlining tour, which is set to take place in May 2007. The lineup for the trek is now as follows: DERANGED, MASTER, RESURRECTED, DEMONICAL and EPICEDIUM. So far the following shows have been booked, with more to follow:
Finnish melodic power metallers THUNDERSTONE will release their fourth studio album, "Evolution 4.0", on March 14 (except in the U.S., where it will be issued later in the spring). According to the band, the new CD is "a milestone, bringing in more of the heavier stuff that 'Tools of Destruction' already hinted at, but still retaining the landmark melodies of THUNDERSTONE. That's why we thought the title 'Evolution 4.0' best represents where we now stand". Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Roots of Anger", "10,000 Ways", "Swirled", "Down with Me" and "The Source".
The band's second album is some kind of showy work with lyrics in Russian and band's familiar trademark. Hard riffing, sparkling brilliant guitar-keyboard solos have been carefully packed for you to listen. Cover artwork as well as some lyrics were created by famous “sir designer” Leo Hao. Full booklet edition contains bonus track “Give Me Your Hand” (English version for ARIA’s “Day Ruku Mne”).
Jerry Lenin (ex-4 Tarakana, Lady's Man) became a new vocalist of russian prog-metal band MECHANICAL POET.
LUCYFIRE, the side project of TIAMAT mastermind Johan Edlund, is working on its second album, tentatively due in 2007. The follow-up to 2001's "This Dollar Saved My Life at Whitehorse" is being produced by TIAMAT drummer Lars Sköld. No further information is currently available.
01. The Last Call
Two absolutely new EPIDEMIA DVDs have hit the Moscow music stores yesterday: "10 Let Puti" (including a first half of a show which took place at DK "Gorbunova" lately last year as well as some bonus videos) and "Elfiiskaja Rukopis'" which features theatrical performance of this popular metal opera during the aformentioned show.
SIRENIA, the Norwegian gothic metal band featuring former TRISTANIA guitarist/vocalist Morten Veland, has completed work on a video for the song "My Mind's Eye" from the group's new album, "Nine Destinies and a Downfall". The clip will be made available to all video outlets in early 2007.
Swedish melodic metallers NOSTRADAMEUS will release their fifth album, "Pathway", on January 26. The CD will feature the following track listing (in no particular order):
01. NORTHER - "Frozen Angel"
01. Jäästä syntynyt varjojen virta
After three albums produced by Norwegian producer Terje Refsnes, French power metallers NIGHTMARE are ready for a new challenge. The recording of the group's sixth studio album will start May 7, 2007 at Studio Fredman in Gothenburg, Sweden with producer Fredrik Nordström (DIMMU BORGIR, IN FLAMES, HAMMERFALL).
"We have recorded two new songs and we will be starting three more next week. We should be halfway [done with the material for the band's sixth album] around Christmas; we're in no hurry because we want to make sure it comes out the best way it possibly can. 
01. Scarsick
German power metallers RAGE filmed their show in St. Petersburg, Russia earlier in the year in front of 15,000 fans for an upcoming live DVD, tentatively due on February 23, 2007 via Nuclear Blast. Entitled "Full Moon in St. Petersburg" (cover), the double DVD will consist of the following: DVD 1 will contain the complete concert in St. Petersburg, Russia, including highlights from the group's last album, "Speak of the Dead", along with several oldies and other fan favorites. The audio will be available in 5.1 Surround Sound or in normal stereo sound. According to a posting on the group's web site, "The concert is a unique adventure with an exceptional light show, marking a great contrast to the last DVD, which was recorded in an intimate atmosphere at the Zeche Bochum." Additionally, DVD1 will include the band's last two promotional videos, Brazilian TV footage, and RAGE perfoming live at the "Masters of Rock" festival 2006 in Tschechien. 
"Gothic Kabbalah" track listing:
Metal-Temple.com / Rock Hard writer Orpheus Spiliotopoulos recently conducted an in-depth interview with SAVATAGE mastermind Jon Oliva. An excerpt from the chat follows: 
Veteran Florida-based extreme metallers MALEVOLENT CREATION have issued the following update:
"Griefshire" (view cover here) track listing:
DREAM THEATER keyboardist Jordan Rudess will appear as a special guest at a battle of the Italian DREAM THEATER cover bands PROGENY (Milan) and YTSEJAMKR (Crotone). Organized by Italian Dreamers, the official Italian DREAM THEATER Fan Club, the event will be held at Teatro in Rimini on November 25, and Jordan will act as "president of the deciding jury for the contest."
ARCH ENEMY frontwoman Angela Gossow has laid down guest vocals in the track "Your Shadow Moves Faster Than Mine" on the new CD from Cologne, Germany-based old-school grind band WORLD DOWNFALL, entitled "Beyond Salvation". Check it out ' . Gossow and WORLD DOWNFALL also teamed up to record a TERRORIZER cover, "Corporation Pull In".
Finnish gothic rock sensation ENTWINE's second single, "Chameleon Halo", from the band's fifth studio album, "Fatal Design", has entered the national chart in the group's home country at position No. 15. View the whole chart ' . The single contains the title cut backed with an unreleased song called "In Delight", an outtake from the "Fatal Design" sessions.
"The Novella Reservoir" track listing:
TESTAMENT singer Chuck Billy, former EXODUS vocalist Steve "Zetro" Souza have joined forces in a brand new project called DUBLIN DEATH PATROL (DDP). The band, which also features such other San Francisco Bay Area notables as Phil Demmel (guitar; MACHINE HEAD, ex-VIO-LENCE) and Willy Langenhuizen (bass; RAMPAGE, LAAZ ROCKIT), is currently in the studio putting the finishing touches on its debut album, due in 2007. The group's complete lineup is as follows:
"Different Seasons" track listing:
"The Collection 1999-2006" (view cover here) track listing:
AFM Records has announced plans to re-release remastered versions of the TANKARD albums "Disco Destroyer" and "Kings of Beer". Each album will contain a bonus track — a cover version of a very well-known metal act. More information will be made available soon. 
SIRENIA , the Norwegian gothic metal band featuring former TRISTANIA guitarist/vocalist Morten Veland, has finalized the track listing for its new album, "Nine Destinies and a Downfall", due in early 2007 via Nuclear Blast Records. It is as follows:
Swedish "gothic metallers" BESEECH, who recently announced their decision to split up after over 15 years in the business, will play their final gig on December 15 at Trägårn in their hometown of Borås, Sweden. The band has also revealed plans to release a DVD in early 2007 containing a remixed live show (with 5.1 Surround Sound) and "tons of material" from various concerts, studio sessions, backstage footage and "other crazy things that happen on tour."
Due on November 15, "Metal Addiction" (cover) will contain the following track listing:
Sweden's LAKE OF TEARS will soon enter the studio to record its new album, "Moons and Mushrooms". Singer/guitar player Daniel Brennare states: "We have started the pre-production of the recording. Though we still have 2-3 more songs to get in order. And in a couple of weeks we will start the final recordings."
Swedish thrashers THE HAUNTED have launched their own YouTube video channel at this location.
Edenbridge have signed a world wide deal with Napalm Records and are proud to announce to be part of the Napalm Records family from now on.
Guitarist Jyri Vahvanen of the Finnish "fantasy metal" band BATTLELORE has posted the following message on the band's official web site:
SINNER — the German band featuring PRIMAL FEAR bassist Mat Sinner, his FEAR bandmate Tom Naumann (guitars), Frank Rössler (keyboards), and former PRIMAL FEAR drummer Klaus Sperling — has announced the addition of second guitarist Christof Leim of THE TRACEELORDS to the group's ranks. 
MOONSPELL was named "Best Portuguese Act" at MTV's 13th annual European Music Awards, which were held earlier tonight (Thursday, Nov. 2) in Copenhagen, Denmark. This is the first time ever a metal band has won that particular award in Europe. The group has since issued the following statement:
The cover artwork for CEREMONIUM's upcoming double discography CD, "Where Roses were Planted Thorns Grow", has been posted online at this location. "Although it's coming along nicely, it is by no means finished," the band writes. "The artist, Peter Sallai, will be adding many more ideas, like angels and demons resonating through the forest scenario."
The Swiss film "Anuk - Der Weg Des Kriegers" ("Anuk - The Path of the Warrior"), starring KROKUS frontman Marc Storace and ex-WARLOCK singer Doro Pesch, will be officially released in Switzerland on November 16. Storace, Pesch and director Luke Gasser recorded a song for the soundtrack called "On My Own" which was written specially for the film by Storace and Gasser. The movie's official trailer can be viewed ' . 
"Reflections of the Obscure" track listing:
DVD1:"The Farewell Performance":
"Evoking Demons" track listing:
JACOBS DREAM is continuing work on the material for the follow-up to 2005's "Drama of the Ages", entitled "Dominion of Darkness". This will be the group's fourth release on Metal Blade Records and the second release with new vocalist Chaz Bond. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Demon World", "Embraced by Sorrow", "Awaken the Man", "End of Days", "Death before Dishonor", "Violent Kingdom" and "Can't Break the Fall"
Swedish multi-instrumentalist Snowy Shaw (MERCYFUL FATE, KING DIAMOND, DREAM EVIL) has been named the new singer in THERION. The group's new album, "Gothic Kabbalah", was recorded and mixed in Stockholm by Stefan Glaumann (RAMMSTEIN, EVERGREY, EUROPE) will be released in January 2007 via Nuclear Blast Records. Snowy shares the vocal duties with Mats Levén (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, KRUX, AT VANCE) and two female singers. A full-blown European tour with GRAVE DIGGER and SABATON kicks off mid-January.
"Waterlines" track listing:
01. Hell Awaits
Swedish black metal titans NAGLFAR have posted the following message on their official web site:
KRUX is the Swedish band featuring CANDLEMASS bassist Leif Edling, ex-YNGWIE MALMSTEEN singer Mats Levén, ex-ENTOMBED drummer Peter Stjärnvind, guitarist Jörgen Sandstrom (also in THE PROJECT HATE, ex-ENTOMBED/GRAVE), current ARCH ENEMY guitarist Fredrik Åkesson, and keyboardist Carl Westholm, has scheduled a CD-release party for its new album, "II", on November 11 in Stockholm. Audio samples of three tracks from the CD have been posted online at the band's official web site. Check out the songs "Devil Sun", "Sea of Doom" and "Lex Lucifero" at KruxDoom.se.
Terror on the High Seas E.P. (2006)
"Best of Axxis" (view cover artwork at this location) track listing:
SAVATAGE / DOCTOR BUTCHER / TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA guitarist Chris Caffery issued the following tribute to Savatage guitarist Criss Oliva yesterday (October 17th), the day he passed away in 1993 in a car accident: 
ONE MAN ARMY AND THE UNDEAD QUARTET, the new Swedish band featuring former THE CROWN vocalist Johan Lindstrand, will release its new single, "Christmas for the Lobotomizer", on November 17 via Nuclear Blast. 
"Gigahearts" track listing:
01.Seed of destruction 
"Integrated in the System of Guilt" track listing:
Sweden's THERION has set "Gothic Kabbalah" as the title of its new album, due on January 16, 2007 via Nuclear Blast Records. Check out the cover artwork at this location.
"The Ring of the Ancients" track listing:
"Necrospiritual Deathcore" track-listing:
Norwegian melodic metal band ENSLAVEMENT OF BEAUTY has had a change of heart and will carry on despite a previous announcement that the group was about to split. ENSLAVEMENT OF BEAUTY's new album will be titled "Mere Contemplations" and will contain 10 tracks of the band's unique melodic metal. The CD will be released via the Norwegian independent label INRI Unlimited. Three songs are now available for streaming at the group's official ' .
"Astronomy" final track listing:
"Existentia" track listing:
Do you miss TV channels playing your favourite metal tracks? Do you want to see uncensored, unabridged Metal, Hardcore, Metalcore, Rock clips 24/7? Well, nowadays this is a wish easily satisfied, just surf to Century Media Records Europe at Youtube by clicking on the link given below and enjoy some of our latest videos. Whether it is the new CELTIC FROST video, the uncensored POISONBLACK clip, top acts ranging from LACUNA COIL, NEVERMORE, HEAVEN SHALL BURN, IGNITE, NAPALM DEATH to SICK OF IT ALL, hot newcomers like MANNTIS, BRAND NEW SIN, INTO ETERNITY, FIREWIND or DIECAST, you will find their clips there ready to rock your screen anytime! Century Media Records Europe @ Youtube.com: http://www.youtube.com/user/CenturyMediaEurope
Former NIGHTWISH vocalist Tarja Turunen is continuing work on her new Christmas album, entitled "Henkäys Ikuisuudesta" (Breath From Heaven). The CD, which includes selections from JOHN LENNON and ABBA, is scheduled for release in Finland, Argentina and through the webshop at Turunen's official web site on November 8. A single, "You Would Have Loved This", will precede the album on October 11.
SKITLIV, the new doom/black metal project of former MAYHEM vocalist Maniac, has posted two songs on its official ' page. The first, "Densetsu" (the Japanese for "legend") is a rehearsal track, while the second, "Valley Below", is a rough mix, with drums and additional guitars still to be added. 
As previously reported, UK prog-metal act THRESHOLD are currently in the studio working on a new album. They have issued the following progress report: 
MOONSPELL have issued the following announcement: 
As reported earlier on METALEATER, both SINNER and PRIMAL FEAR will appear together for the first time on the same stage on the same night on October 7 at H20 in Reichenbach (near Stuttgart), Germany. You can vote for the songs that will be included in the band's setlist ' .
SUSPERIA, the Norwegian band featuring former members of DIMMU BORGIR and SATYRICON, entered StrandStudio in Oslo, Norway at the beginning of August to start work on their fourth studio album, the follow up to 2004's acclaimed release "Unlimited". The band is once again working with Marius Strand, who previously assisted SUSPERIA on 2005's Norwegian Top 20 hit, the "Devil May Care" EP. Recording is expected to be completed by the end of September. SUSPERIA then head out on a short tour in October before returning to Dug-Out Studios in Uppsala, Sweden in November to complete the final mix with Daniel Bergstrand (IN FLAMES, MESHUGGAH, SOILWORK). A release is planned for early 2007 through the Tabu label in Europe and Candlelight Records in the USA. No name for the album has been announced yet, but songtitles revealed so far are "More" (which SUSPERIA performed at this year's Inferno Festival in Norway), "Cut From Stone", "Distant Memory" and "The Clone". The band has added a further date to those previously announced. They will perform at the Motstoy Festival in Notodden, Norway on Friday, October 6
01. Always The Pretenders (Radio Edit)
THERION mainman Christofer Johnsson has posted the following message on the band's official web site: 
German melodic black metal band SYCRONOMICA have completed work on their second album, "Gate", due on November 17 via Armageddon Music. The CD was recorded at Hellion Studios in Munich. 
01. Fire! Battle! In Metal!
"Skogskvad" трек-лист:
Finnish metallers PAIN CONFESSOR will enter Fantom Studios in late 2006/early 2007 with Samu Oittinen to record their third album, tentatively due March 2007. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Dreamcrusher", "Second Sun", "Without Redemption - Without Remorse" and "Ne Plus Ultra". According to a posting on the group's web site, "the forthcoming album will be the heaviest and most brutal PAIN CONFESSOR album yet."
01. Slitwrist Ecstasy
SINNER — the German band featuring PRIMAL FEAR bassist Mat Sinner, his FEAR bandmate Tom Naumann (guitars), Frank Rössler (keyboards), METALIUM's Matte Lange (guitars) and former PRIMAL FEAR drummer Klaus Sperling — has entered Leon studio near Stuttgart with the engineering team of Achim Köhler and Samson Geiger to begin recording its new album, entitled "Mask of Sanity", for a January 19, 2007 release through MTM Music. Check out pictures from the studio ' 
01. To Remain Tombless (6:06)
01. Into Illusion (mp3)
"The Morrigan's Call" track listing:
"In These Veins" track listing:
"In a conversation with the label Nuclear Blast, Messiah Marcolin has agreed to sing on the upcoming CANDLEMASS album. It will happen sometime in September/October. Some contractual stuff has to be sorted out first, but things look very promising at the moment.
Here is the complete track listing for "Victory":
It has now been confirmed that several CRIMSON GLORY members — including Jon Drenning (guitar) and Dana Burnell (drums) — will be joining CRIMSON GLORY guitarist Ben Jackson to perform some classic CRIMSON GLORY songs during BEN JACKSON GROUP's support set for KAMELOT at their only Tampa Bay appearance at St. Petersburg State Theater on Saturday September 16. Also appearing as openers are CRYPTIC VISION
Italian doom metallers THUNDERSTORM have set "As We Die Alone" as the title of their fourth album, tentatively due late 2006/early 2007 via Dragonheart Records. The follow-up to 2004's "Faithless Soul" was recorded at New Sin Studio in Loria (Italy) and will include a cover version of the JIMI HENDRIX classic "Voodoo Chile (Slight Return)". THUNDERSTORM's version of the song is described by the band as "ultra-heavy but respectful of the original feeling."
MOURNFUL CONGREGATION is currently in the process of recording a new track for a split 7" record with fellow Australian doom metal band STONE WINGS. This track will be entitled 'Descent Of The Flames', with the STONE WINGS track being entitled 'Ascent Of The Flames'.
Death metal legends Hate Eternal will release their first ever DVD The Perilous Fight on October 16th 2006. The DVD features artwork from Paul Romano (Mastodon, Trivium) that you can check out here at 
Former SAVATAGE/current JON OLIVA'S PAIN frontman Jon Oliva and SINNER/ex-PRIMAL FEAR drummer Klaus Sperling make guest appearances on the sophomore album from the South German melodic metal outfit SAIDIAN, entitled "Phoenix". Due on September 29 via Metal Heaven, the disc was once again produced by former SANVOISEN singer Vagelis Maranis at Maranis Studios in Backnang (near Stuttgart), Germany. Sperling reportedly plays drums on the entire album, while Oliva joined the group to sing a verse in the song "Crown of Creation".
TO-MERA, the new U.K.-based dark progressive metal band formed by former WITHOUT FACE vocalist Julie Kiss (photo) and bassist Lee Barrett (ex-EXTREME NOISE TERROR, DISGUST, MUSSOLINI HEADKICK), just shot a video for the song "Blood". The clip is currently being edited and should be ready in about 10 days. Check out pictures from the video shoot at this location.
The first of September will be a truly special day for all fans of Symphonic Progressive Metal with a fantasy touch: The masters themselves, BLIND GUARDIAN, will release their sophomore masterpiece "A Twist In The Myth"! Of course we have a soft spot for all those of you who can΄t stand weeks of waiting. Just click ' and join our exclusive pre-listening! You can check out various tracks - more tracks will be added the closer the release date gets, so make sure you return soon!
Dutch female-fronted symphonic metal band EPICA is currently working on material for its third full-length album. "We have about 13 songs which are growing every day," states vocalist Simone Simons. "Soon we will be able to play new songs live. Looking forward to it!"
"The Last Embrace" tentative track listing:
ENTOMBED recently issued an EP, entitled "When in Sodom", via Threeman Recordings. A full-length CD, "Serpent Saints", will follow on September 18.
German power metallers GAMMA RAY have set "Hell Yeah! The Awesome Foursome (And The Finnish Keyboarder Who Didn't Want To Wear His Donald Duck Costume) Live in Montreal" as the title of their upcoming DVD. The set will feature a ulti-camera recording of the band's May 6, 2006 show at Medley in Montreal, Quebec as well as lots of bonus features, such as a road movie, a documentary covering the group's history, behind-the-scenes footage, and video clips etc. "Canada is a good place to film a show," the band's frontman, Kai Hansen, previously said about the shoot. "But we are also bringing a cameraman along for the entire tour to capture all of the backstage and pre-show aspects of the band. We are bringing it back to rock 'n' roll basics."
"Lust Stained Despair" track listing:
"Live in Madrid" track listing:
Swedish melodic metallers NOSTRADAMEUS have posted the following message on their official web site:
"With Oden On Our Side" track listing:
Guitarist Stefania Ponzilacqua of the Italian metallers ETERNAL TRAGEDY has announced that the group's next album — to be produced by Tim Aymar (CONTROL DENIED) and engineered by Curran Murphy (ex-ANNIHILATOR) — will feature guest appearances by Kelly Conlon (ex-DEATH, MONSTROSITY) on bass and Robert Falzano (ex-ANNIHILATOR) on drums. The CD will contain "50 minutes of technical death metal," according to a press release.
"Savior Sorrow" track listing:
German metal band DIE APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER has posted the title track of its upcoming album, "Riders on the Storm", at www.myspace.com/reitermania. Also available at the same location is the band's cover version of the JOHNNY CASH/BLUES BROTHERS classic "Ghostriders in the Sky".
"Thornography" track listing:
German melodic black/death metallers SUIDAKRA are finalizing the mixing process for their new album, "Caledonia", tentatively due in October via Armageddon Music. The follow-up to 2005's "Command to Charge" was recorded at Gernhart Records studio in Siegburg, Germany and features artwork by Kris Verwimp. The album photography is being handled by Axel Jusseit, who previously worked with the group on 2003's "Signs for the Fallen".
Finnish metallers AMORPHIS will release "The Smoke" (cover), the second single from their "Eclipse" album, in Finland on June 7. Included on the CD is the video clip for "House of Sleep".
http://www.grimfaith.kiev.ua
Finland's KALMAH have finished filming a video for the song "The Groan of Wind". The clip should be completed by the end of the month. Check out a few pictures from the video shoot ' 
Italian gothic metal sensations GODYVA will be releasing the new full-length CD, entitled "In Good and Evil", on June 6 through SorceryStudios Media Group.
German gothic rockers LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE will release their new single, "Again It's Over" (cover), in Europe on June 9 via Napalm Records. The six-track mini-CD jewel-case edition will include three non-album tracks. A video for "Again It's Over" was recently filmed and can be viewed ' (Windows Media).
The cover artwork for the new DEICIDE album, "The Stench of Redemption", has been posted online a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/838/174/1600/small_STENCH_5.jpg" target="_blank">at this location.' The follow-up to 2004's "Scars of the Crucifix" was recorded at Morrisound in Tampa, Florida and marks the first recording with the new DEICIDE lineup following the departure of the Hoffman brothers. Joining frontman Glen Benton and drummer Steve Asheim in the new formation are guitarists Jack Owen (ex-CANNIBAL CORPSE) and Ralph Santolla (ex-ICED EARTH, DEATH).
"Trample the Weak, Hurdle the Dead" (view artwork at this location) track listing:
01. DRACENA (SWE) – "Animal (Fuck Like a Beast)"
"Alien Factor" track listing:
"Reduced to Ashes" track listing:
1. Mission Profile (8.22)
"When Eden Burns" track listing:
"Memories from Nothing" track listing:
Israeli metal band ORPHANED LAND have announced that Steven Wilson of PORCUPINE TREE will produce their next album, entitled "The Never Ending Way of ORwarriOR".
"Karma.Bloody.Karma." track listing:
"Ever-Arch-I-Tech-Ture" track listing:
Ozzy Osbourne decided to leave the ranks of legendary band BLACK SABBATH due to personal reasons. His wife and group manager, Sharon, found the replacement in person of her daughter Kelly. Young girl has already started to learn the huge number of BLACK SABBATH songs for the tour along Amazon river.
Frontiers Records will release former HELLOWEEN singer Michael Kiske's new solo album, simply entitled "Kiske", on May 19.
Norwegian black metallers CARPATHIAN FOREST will release their new album, "Fuck You All!!!!", on May 22 via Season of Mist. The CD will be available in a limited "metalpak" edition and regular jewel case. Songtitles set to appear on the album include "The Frostbitten Woodlands of Norway", "Submit to Satan!!!", "Start Up the Incinerator (Here Comes Another Useless Fool)" (download ' ) and "Shut Up, There Is No Excuse To Live..." Check out the cover artwork by CARPATHIAN FOREST mainman Nattefrost at this location.
CD: 
"Before the Bleeding Sun" track listing:
"Noctambulant" track listing:
A medley of audio clips from Finnish folk metallers KORPIKLAANI's upcoming third album, entitled "Tales along this Road", has been made available at ' .
Satan's favourite band Deicide have declared 6.6.06 the release date for their upcoming album on Earache records. The album, titled The Stench Of Redemption , is tentatively set for release on the date that coincides with the mark of the beast.
"Threshold of Revelation" track listing:
"Metal Black" track listing:
Reactivated Finnish melodic extreme metal band ETERNAL TEARS OF SORROW have begun mixing their fifth album, "Before the Bleeding Sun", with Mikko Karmila at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Finland. "So far, the mixed songs sound exactly what they should sound like," the band write on their web site. "The mixing sessions are going to be finished by the end of next week, after which it's time to master the whole album. . . Travis Smith has been working on the graphics side for some time now. So far so good!"
"Genocide" track listing:
SPV Records has set an April 21 German release date for the new MOONSPELL album, entitled "Memorial". The CD was recorded at Woodhouse Studios in Hagen, Germany with producer Waldemar Sorychta (LACUNA COIL, TIAMAT, GRIP INC.) and will contain around 8 to 10 new songs, including "Once It Was Ours!", "Blood Tells", "Sanguine", "Finisterra", "Upon the Blood of Men" and "At the Image of Pain". The material is being described by the group as "the best music we ever wrote together" and "an homage to the Nineties scene and bands," of which they became a strong symbol of. A DVD, entitled "Lunar Still/13 Years of Doom", is expected to surface via Century Media later in the year.
Шведские металлеры SATARIEL подписали контракт с Pulverized Records на выпуск mini-CD, состоящего из четырех совершенно новых трэков. Запись альбома начнется 16-го февраля. Новая информация относительно релиза появится вскоре.
"Chris Caffery is entering the studio in New York City on February 8th to begin the recording of his next CD "Pins and Needles". The CD is going to be released world-wide in October 2006. Some of the song titles are "The Temple", "S.A.D", "WORMS", "Mettle Eastern", "The Sign of The Crossed" and the title track "Pins and Needles". 
"Mann Gegen Mann" (view cover here) track listing:
Swedish metallers STEEL ATTACK have finalized the track listing for their fifth full-length album, "Diabolic Symphony", due on April 21 via Massacre Records. The follow-up to 2004's "Enslaved" was recorded at Black Lounge Studio in Sweden with engineer Jonas Kjellgren and features "hard riffs combined with rich melodies and brilliant metal," according to guitarist Johan Jalonen Penn.
On February 10th the single "Out In The Real World" is released. Apart from an edit of the album's title track the single also includes two re-arranged Ayreon songs as well as the Led Zeppelin cover version "When The Levee Breaks". 
As most of you know, drummer Marty O'Shea amicably split with THE ETERNAL to be replaced by the hard-hitting Pete Marin. Pete earned Marty's hearty seal of approval after seeing him play at Pete's first show in December of last year. Pete has fit exceptionally well into the band.
Danish extreme metallers PANZERCHRIST have commenced the recording sessions for their new album, "Batallion Beast" — the group's first release with newly recruited drummer Bent Nyeng (also of DIE) and keyboard player Dea Lillelund (also in FAIRYTALE ABUSE). The lyrics to the follow-up to 2003's "Room Service" (Mighty Music) will apparently be completely in German, according to a posting on the band's web site.
SAATTUE, the Finnish band featuring former and current members of such underground acts as YEARNING, LET ME DREAM, ULTRAMAYHEM ORGANISATION and BRAINDRAIN, have completed work on a new three-song promotional CD containing the cuts "Luutarhuri", "Ikiuneen" and "Kaaosmaa".
Drummer of MENTAL DEMISE left the band few days ago. He will be replaced by Alexander Silver, who played in DISORDER DEFECTION, BRILLIANT COLDNESS and CATALEPTIC.
YOB have disbanded; 
The upcoming album 'Risus ex Mortuus' will be released by the Russian label Endless Desperation Records. The album is a re-recording of the bands first demo and subsequent initial self-release, which did not recieve widespread distribution. 
Belgian doomsters Thee Plague of Gentlemen have signed a deal with France's Listenable Records. The band's second full-length album, 'SerpentCult' is scheduled for release later in the year.
"Unealthy Opera" track listing:
Finnish "stoner rockers" MANNHAI, whose current lineup includes singer Pasi Koskinen (ex-AMORPHIS, AJATTARA), have posted an audio sample of their new single, "Spaceball", at this location. The song comes off the group's new album, "Hellroad Caravan" due in Finland on February 15. The "Spaceball" single will precede the album on Wednesday, January 18. "This is the first release from the upcoming full-length album, and will also include a fine and an exclusive bonus track, 'The Rocketeer'," the band write on their web site.
MASTERPLAN vocalist Jorn Lande (ex-ARK, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN) will release his fourth solo album, "The Duke", shortly through Germany's AFM Records. The CD was produced by Lande and PAGAN'S MIND guitarist Jörn Viggo Lofstad, and was mixed at Jailhouse Studios in Denmark by Tommy Hansen. Recording musicians include:
Norwegian extreme metallers ENSLAVED have set "Ruun" as the title of their new album, tentatively due on May 8 via Tabu. The recordings for the follow-up to the band's Norwegian Grammy- and Alarm award-winning album "Isa" (2004) began a week ago at Amper Studio in Oslo, Norway and the band Сalready feel confident that this will be a monumental album!" according to a posting on the group's web site. "The drums are finished, and the guitars are being recorded at this very moment." 
Danish/Swedish prog-metallers BEYOND TWILIGHT have completed work on the vocal recording for their new album, tentatively due later in the year. "Everything went easy and well," the band write on their web site. "The vocals was recorded in just a couple of days. Björn [Jansson, singer] has made the most outstanding vocals. Pulling it off in just a couple of days he showed he is made of the same thing as the rest of the band. The band met in the weekend and had a great time together. Only thing left now is the mixing sessions which has already started."
VREID, the new Norwegian band formed by former WINDIR members Hváll (bass), Steingrim (drums) and Sture (vocals, guitar), have posted the following message on their official web site:
This message has been posted on KAMELOT's official website:
DARK MOOR has begun writing new material for their next album, wich is planned to be recorded by the second half of this year 2006. Right now, the band is looking for a new label through his management agency Metallian, after the ending of their contract with Arise Records.
The recording for the upcoming Solitude Aeturnus album 'Alone', has been delayed. 
Polish extreme metallers BEHEMOTH have finally returned home after completing an 11-week North American trek consisting of 54 shows in both the U.S. (as part of Blackest of the Black tour) and Canada (where they headlined). This tour marked the longest the band had ever been away from their homes..jpg)
Finnish folk-influenced melodic death metal band ENSIFERUM, now featuring in its ranks NORTHER frontman Petri Lindroos, have completed work on their new EP, "Dragonheads", due on February 15, 2006 via Spinefarm Records. The mini-CD was recorded and mixed in November at Sonic Pump studios in Helsinki by Nino Laurenne (THUNDERSTONE) and was mastered by Mika Jussila at Finnvox Studios. It will contain one new track, new studio recordings of several old demo songs, and a couple of traditional Finnish folk covers.
German "dark Satanic metal band" MYSTIC CIRCLE have finished recording their seventh full-length album, "The Bloody Path of God", due on February 27, 2006 via Dockyard 1, the new company formed by Dirk Putzke, Christine Stephan (both ex-Sanctuary/Noise Records) and Piet Sielck (IRON SAVIOR). The new CD was recorded at a studio in Ludwigshafen, Germany with former MYSTIC CIRCLE drummer Necrodemon at the production helm. The album contains nine songs, two intros and a cover version of CELTIC FROST's "Circle of the Tyrants". "The new songs are really a blast," the band write on their web site. "It shows the developement from the band all over the years and you can expect killer songs."
In case you are not yet absolutely convinced that Finland is the "most heavy metal" country in the world, look no further than this week's official Top 40 single chart (view chart here). Topping the Finnish national chart for the second consecutive week is DIABLO's new single, "Mimic 47", with AJATTARA's (the Finnish "black/dark metal" project featuring former AMORPHIS frontman Pasi Koskinen) Christmas single, "Joulusingle 2005", occupying the No. 2 slot and CHILDREN OF BODOM's "In Your Face" at No. 3. (Note: MADONNA's new single, "Hung Up", is at No. 5.)
U.K.-based black/death quintet BAL-SAGOTH have set "The Chthonic Chronicles" as the title of their long-awaited sixth album, tentatively due in early 2006 via Nuclear Blast Records.
MIND'S EYE: is about to release their new album «Walking on H2O» (released through Lion Music on Jan 20th).
Canadian metal magazine Unrestrained! has named OPETH's "Ghost Reveries" the No. 1 Album of 2005 in their year-end issue that will be on stands December 15. 
Norwegian symphonic metal band TRISTANIA have posted the following message on their official web site:
Moscow band LETHAL GUEST (Melodic-Death-Trash-Metal) finished the work with their first album «Suicide By The Other Side». You can listen 12 absolutely different, strong and melodic tracks. It was recorded at musicians' home studio, mastered and mixed at "Dai - records" studio. The album will be released on 2006 february
Frontiers Records is pleased to announce all details of highly anticipated Toto's brand new studio album entitled Falling In Between.
Sweden's WOLVERINE have posted the following message on their official web site:
Legendary death metallers CANNIBAL CORPSE have set "Kill" as the title of their tenth album, due on March 21 via Metal Blade Records. The CD is being recorded at Mana Studios in St. Petersburg, Florida with producer Erik Rutan (MORBID ANGEL, HATE ETERNAL). 
A total of 30 metal, rock and punk writers at Sweden's Close–Up magazine have voted in the magazine's annual critics' album-of-the-year poll. The final results were as follows:
LEAVES' EYES male vocalist/programmer Alex Krull revealed to Germany's magazine that the group are planning on releasing a new mini-CD in early 2006. No further information is currently available.
In a post on their website the band GAIA EPICUS announced their plans of recording a new album in 2006. The tentative title will be "Victory" and the tentative tracklist is as follow:
On January 10, 2006, CHIMAIRA will release a special, limited edition, two-disc version of their critically acclaimed, self-titled third album. Featuring the full-length album, seven live songs and two previously unreleased tracks, the special edition of "Chimaira" will be packaged in an all-black, glossy jewel case. The follow-up to 2003's "Impossibility of Reason", the original version of "Chimaira", which was just named one of the year's best albums by both Revolver and Decibel magazines, was released on August 9, and debuted at No. 10 on the Top Hard Rock chart. In addition to the stellar first-week sales, the album, called "bleakly thrilling" by the New York Times, quickly ascended to #1 at Metal/Specialty Radio where it stayed for several weeks. CHIMAIRA is currently on a headlining tour overseas supporting the album and will be back in the States for their annual holiday shows taking place on December 29-30 at the Odeon in Cleveland, OH.
SILENT VOICES, the Finnish melodic metal band featuring SONATA ARCTICA keyboardist keyboardist Henrik Klingenberg, REQUIEM/MENTAL CARE FOUNDATION bassist Pasi Kauppinen and SENTIMENT singer Michael Henneken, have completed work on their third album. Entitled "Building up the Apathy" the CD's musical direction is being described as "considerably more progressive" than that on the group's previous album, 2004's "Infernal". 
THEATRE OF TRAGEDY album title revealed 
Acclaimed Swedish prog-metal band ANDROMEDA will release their third album, "Chimera", in Japan on January 21, 2006 via Marquee/Avalon. A release date for North America, Europe and the rest of the world will soon be announced.
Sweden's KATATONIA have set "The Great Cold Distance" as the title of their seventh full-length album, due on March 13, 2006 via Peaceville Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Viva Emptiness" was recorded at Fascination Street studios in the outskirts of Örebro, Sweden and was mastered at the Cutting Room in Stockholm.
According to the official DIO fan club newsletter, DIO will be working on a new album in January/February and going back on the road sometime in March for an extended South American tour. The band will resume work on the new CD in April/May, with plans to complete the album by the end of the year. The band's management has also confirmed that DIO will be making several European festival appearances during June, July and August. No U.S. tour plans for 2006 have yet been announced.
CADAVERIA, the Italian band featuring former OPERA IX vocalist Cadaveria and ex-OPERA IX drummer/NECRODEATH vocalist Marçelo Santos (a.k.a. Flegias), have finished writing ten new songs their third album, tentatively due next year via Scarlet Records. The recordings for the new CD will begin in early 2006.
The cover artwork for the upcoming IN FLAMES album, "Come Clarity", has been posted online at ' .
AFTER THE STORM: charity inheres in the rich. Is this postulate unquestionable? I don’t think so. Some of the best-known progressive rock musicians made their contributions on a benefit album for the Survivors of Hurricane Katrina produced by NEARfest Records. The album will soon be available for sale but in the meantime have a look at its tracklist:
Some news from on the work on Operation Mindcrime II: 
Power/Progressive Metal band Vindex signs on for the release of their full length debut Power Forge. Hailing from Slovakia, Vindex delivers their brand of pure power metal laced with progressive elements driven by twin neo classical guitars. What makes Vindex unique is the voice of vocalist Ludek Struhar who could be a dead ringer for Accept vocalist Udo Dirkschneider. Power Forge contains 11 tracks of brain crushing metal sure to please fans of Grave Digger, Accept, UDO, Edguy, and Stratovarious. Release Date January 2006.
Belgian black metal pioneers ANCIENT RITES have inked a deal with Season of Mist. The band are currently at Spacelab studio in Germany recording their long-awaited follow-up to 2001's "Dim Carcosa" under the guidance and supervision of veteran producers Oliver Phillips and Christian Moos. The album will most likely be released before the summer of 2006, after which ANCIENT RITES — now a septet since the return of former members Domingo Smets and Raf Jansen last year — will once again play live to spread their new music. Concerts all over Europe and the U.K. are currently being negotiated and arranged, so expect the band to be out there in full blast next year. 
Two more acts are confirmed for next year's installment of the Bang Your Head!!! festival, set to take place June 23-24, 2006 in Balingen, Germany.
Southern German Metal outfit RAWHEAD REXX are in the studio and started the preproduction of the follow-up to their last release „Diary in black“. Songwriting efforts turned out to be very futile: Right now, the band has composed about 30 songs to choose from.
Sweden's DARK TRANQUILLITY have uploaded a live video clip of "The Wonders at Your Feet" and half of "Zodijackyl Light", shot at the group's concert in Gran Canaria on October 1. "The sound and picture quality isn't the best, so it's for die-hards only, but the atmosphere is present in spades," the band write on their web site. Check it out at this location (Windows Media, 18 MB).
British black metallers CRADLE OF FILTH recorded a cover of SAMHAIN's "Halloween II", which will appear on the soundtrack to the forthcoming film "Underworld: Evolution". The band are currently recording their seventh LP at Lincolnshire, England's Chapel Studios for an early June 2006 release via Roadrunner Records. The group's frontman Dani Filth told ' that when the group's new disc arrives in stores, fans will hear two very interesting covers the FILTH's been perfecting: U.K. techno-pop trio HEAVEN 17's "Temptation" and "Stay" by SHAKESPEAR'S SISTER.
Tech metal band GRENOUER in late September 2005 had a rough time when fire destroyed their rehearsal studio with all instruments and equipment yet was quite fast to recover from this misfortune. Musicians have already purchased new high quality instruments and resolved the problem of finding a new room. For that Grenouer had to use studio budget and studio session at ASTIA (Finland) was rescheduled for the summer 2006. Anyway Grenouer is resuming rehearsals and prepares to play several gigs by the end of the year. Meanwhile December HARD ROCK magazine (Fra) is giving Grenouer "Try" nomination "Demo of the month".
Russian grind label SoulFlesh Collector announced the first release. It is split of three bands: CADAVERIC INCUBATOR (Finland), FETAL DECAY (Russia, Saratov), MORTALIZED (Russia, Kazan').
San Diego film company ZU33 is currently developing "Lords of Chaos", a fiction film based on true events in the Norwegian black metal music scene in the early 1990s. The project goes into pre-production in November, with physical production scheduled to begin in Februrary 2006. The screenplay was written by Hans Fjellestad, Ryan Page and Adam Parfrey. Fjellestad is set to direct.
"The album 'In the Depths of R'lyeh' is finished and will soon be in the process of mastering. No exact release date is set as of yet (early 2006), but it will be available first and immediately through Moribund Records, and soon thereafter at other distros around the world." Samples will be available within the next couple of weeks.
CD-Maximum Records have licensed for the CIS market following titles:
According to a ' published in the October 18, 2005 edition of the Metro newspaper, a British teenage heavy metal fan has been handed a community service order for wearing an offensive t-shirt. 
Moscow-based thrash metal band ZATMENIE have re-signed with Misteria Zvuka to release their second as-yet-untitled album. The album will include 10 tracks, mostly composed during recording, February-August 2005. 
Long-running Floridian death metallers MALEVOLENT CREATION have reportedly parted ways with guitarist Rob Barret and bassist Gordon Simms. Replacing them in the group's latest incarnation are returning members John Rubin (guitar) and Jason Blachowicz (bass, also in DIVINE EMPIRE). 
Nightwish recorded "End Of An Era" -live release yesterday evening in Hartwall-Arena, Helsinki. As you can imagine, the atmosphere in the Arena was wild but also quite blue. This was the ending for a one and a half year lasting "Once"-World Tour. Nightwish wishes to thank everybody for an unbelievable tour.
German melodic metallers EDGUY have posted the following message on their official web site:
Audio clips of six songs from the upcoming RAMMSTEIN album, "Rosenrot", have been posted online at ' 
Finnish folk metallers KORPIKLAANI will enter Fantom studio on November 17 to begin recording their third album, entitled "Tales along This Road". A tentative March/April 2006 release is expected.
IMMORTAL frontman Abbath (real name: Olve Eikemo) has reportedly joined forces with original IMMORTAL drummer Armagedda, ENSLAVED guitarist Arve Isdal and GORGOROTH bassist King in a brand-new project dubbed simply I. The group have finished writing two-thirds of the material for their upcoming full-length debut, which will feature lyrics written primarily by former IMMORTAL guitarist Demonaz (real name: Harald Nævdal). The band, who expect to enter the studio before the end of 2005, are said to be contemplating making several festival appearances next year. More information will be made available soon.
Fiona Sturges of the U.K.'s The Independent recently conducted an interview with MOTÖRHEAD frontman Ian "Lemmy" Kilmister. Several excerpts from the chat follow:
"The Gospel of Filth: A Black Metal Bible" is the title of a new book currently being written by music journalist Gavin Baddeley with the help of CRADLE OF FILTH frontman Dani Filth.
On October 11 at the Heineken Music Hall in Amsterdam, DREAM THEATER performed PINK FLOYD's "Dark Side of the Moon" in its entirety as their second set. Tracks performed were as follows:
Eagle Rock Entertainment has set a November 1 release date for the new DVD from TESTAMENT, entitled "Live In London".
New album of BOLT THROWER "Those Once Loyal" will be released on 14th of November via Metal Blade. Track-list:
The Eternal have finally released their album 'The Sleep of Reason'
Consensus have finished recording their new EP, entitled 'Libertatis
From the CANDLEMASS website:
SAMAEL's Vorph and Xy are currently reworking their "Era One" project (originally completed and delivered to Century Media Records in September 2002) for a January 2006 release through Century Media. The Swiss band's former label is also planning to reissue the group's "Ceremony of Opposites" (1994) and "Worship Him" (1991) albums this fall as a special "deluxe edition."
The leader of UNTIL DEATH OVERTAKES ME posted the following message on the official web-page of the band:
Famous Ukrainian doomers AUTUMNIA posted such message on their official web-page:
Count Raven are re-releasing 'Storm Warning'(1990), 'Destruction of the Void'(1992), 'High on Infinity'(1994) and 'Messiah of Confusion'(1996) on Cyclone Empire. 
Norwegian black metallers CREST OF DARKNESS have posted the following update on their official web site:
Veteran German thrashers DESTRUCTION have uploaded their video for the track "The Alliance of Hellhoundz" at their official web site. Check it out at Destruction.de. 
Guitarist/vocalist Ares of Norwegian "dark metallers" AETERNUS has posted the following message on the group's official web site: 
Blood Legacy will be recording new material later this year for their 
STRATOVARIUS' latest, self-titled effort has entered the national album charts in the following countries:
German thrashers KREATOR will re-release their latest album, "Enemy of God", in early 2006 in the DVD-Audio format, featuring very high quality, Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, plus additional video material (including animation) and footage of KREATOR appearing on various TV shows.
Italian experimentalists EPHEL DUATH have recently completed work on the highly anticipated follow up to "The Painter's Palette" at Studio 73 in Ravenna, Italy.
LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE are currently writing material for their seventh album, which they hope to begin recording in October for an early 2006 release via Napalm Records. A single will precede the album in January.
Drummer Diego "Grom" Meraviglia (HORTUS ANIMAE, ex-DOOMSWORD) has officially quit ANCIENT. As of today, Meraviglia is no longer part of the cult extreme metal band's lineup. "I decided to end my official envolvement with ANCIENT for a number of reasons," Diego said in a statement. "It has been a nice and rewarding five years, full of great experiences and I wish to thank all the other guys in the band and all the great fans, but I have reached a point in my career where I simply feel I need to move on. There were profound professional differences as well between me and the rest of the band and that convinced me it was time to quit." 
New album of ARCONA "Vo Slavu Velikim!" is recorded.
A new song entitled "Scrutinized" has been posted at Nuclear Blast's page from the swedish death metallers' HYPOCRISY upcoming album "Virus", scheduled on the 20th of September. The track can be downloaded ' (Real media format).
We are very sad to announce, that the great musician, drummer of Polish death metal band VADER is dead. 
Moscow (Russia) based thrash metal band ZATMENIE have recently stated that Edgar, a famous violin player, will be guesting on the band’s upcoming album. Edgar has just finished recording solo for a track “Za Toboy” (Russian for “Reaching For You”) and accepted his participation in album’s release party, tentatively due later 2005 or early 2006.
Russian metallers HOSTILE BREED have finished the recordings of their first Russian-language album "Uzory Shramov - Zakony Voiny". The recordings were made on 
Swedish "gothic metallers" BESEECH have uploaded their animated video for the song "Innerlane" at Beseech.net (available in both Windows Media and Quicktime formats).
Norwegian symphonic black metal masters DIMMU BORGIR have extended their record deal with longtime label Nuclear Blast Records. The group's next release will be a revamped version of their "Stormblast" CD, which originally appeared in 1996. The CD was re-recorded earlier in the year, augmented with bonus tracks and produced by Peter Tagtgren (HYPOCRISY). A November 7 release is expected.
MORTIIS releases his first ever DVD entitled 'SOUL IN A HOLE' on September 26th.
Danish wrecking crew EXMORTEM will unleash their new expanded line up for a series of dates through August and September including a headling slot on Friday night, August 19th of this years Jalo Metalli Festival in Finland, which will be taking place 19th and 20th of August in Oulo.
Polish death metallers VADER have posted the following message on their official web site:
Dutch Death Metal leviathans NOX are finishing up recording their long
SEPULTURA guitarist Andreas Kisser has entered A Voz do Brasil studio in São Paulo, Brazil to begin recording his his first solo album, tentatively due in early 2006 via Holland's Mascot Records. No further information is currently available.
Message from the band:
15 people were arrested for public drunkenness and disorderly conduct following DEICIDE's live debut in Chile, which took place Friday (July 15) at Gimnasio Nataniel in Santiago. 
CHILDREN OF BODOM have recorded a cover version of BRITNEY SPEARS' "Oops I Did It Again" for their upcoming single, "In Your Face". The single, which is scheduled for release in Finland on August 17 via Spinefarm, will contain the following track listing:
French symphonic black metal act ANOREXIA NERVOSA are putting the finishing touches on a new mini-CD, "The September", containing cover songs from FORBIDDEN SITE and DARKTHRONE, live tracks recorded during the band's "Redemption Process" French tour, and two songs that were previously only available in Japan. In addition, the band have remixed their live favorite "Sister September" for the occasion. "The September" is scheduled for release this fall, in time for the band's European tour with VADER.
As reported here on July 3, Finnish melodic metallers STRATOVARIUS have now officially confirmed that they have enlisted bassist Lauri Porra (SINERGY, KOTIPELTO, TUNNELVISION, WARMEN) as the replacement for longtime member Jari Kainulainen, who left the group a few weeks ago. STRATOVARIUS have issued the following statement regarding the lineup change:
Polish death/black metallers BEHEMOTH have just completed work on a new design of their official web site, ' 
Swedish metallers HYPOCRISY have uploaded the cover artwork for their upcoming album, "Virus", at this location.
The long awaited vinyl version of Pagan Altar's debut CD 'Volume 1' has just been released by Black Widow records re-titled as 'Judgement of the Dead', which was what the band had initially planned to title the album. The edition features fantastic new artwork and includes the 48 page long 'Behind the Cloak' book, which is the band's biography from 1978 'till today. Additionally, an alternate version of the song 'March of the Dead' is included as a bonus track. A limited edition of 300 red coloured vinyl copies is also available.
ELVENKING's third album is scheduled to be mastered by on July 26 at Finnvox studios in Finland by Mika Jussila. A late 2005 release via AFM Records is expected.
ARCH ENEMY's upcoming album, "Doomsday Machine", is available for streaming in its entirety at ' .
Nuclear Blast Records has pushed back the projected release date of the new IN FLAMES album, "Come Clarity", to February 2006. No reason was given for the delay.
According to ' , the new album from Moscow Deputy Mayor Mikhail Men (a.k.a. "Michael Men"), "Made in Moscow", featuring Glenn Hughes (DEEP PURPLE, BLACK SABBATH) and Joe Lynn Turner (RAINBOW, DEEP PURPLE), has been released in Russia on Inna Records.
Brazil's Marquee Records has jus re-released the debut album from legendary Canadian thrashers SACRIFICE, entitled "Torment in Fire". It comes as a double CD in a limited-edition hand-numbered slipcase and contains a massive booklet with liner notes by Laurent Ramadier, live pictures and personal comments by Joe Rico (guitar) and Rob Urbinati (guitar, vocals). The reissue features 42 songs in total, including one from SACRIFICE's first gig in 1984 — all remastered from the originals by Sidney Sohn (NASTY SAVAGE, IRON ANGEL). The complete track listing is as follows:
Danish metallers ILLDISPOSED will enter the studio in November to begin recording the follow-up to last year's "1-800 Vindication", tentatively due in early 2006 via Roadrunner Records.
Norwegian black metallers CARPATHIAN FOREST have posted the following message on their official web site:
CANDLEMASS bassist/main songwriter Leif Edling has posted a report from the band's recent appearance at the Bang Your Head festival in Balingen, Germany. Check it out at ' 
According to MaidenFans.com, Vitamin Records has set an August 2 release date for a piano tribute to IRON MAIDEN, aptly titled "The Piano Tribute to Iron Maiden". The complete track listing for the CD is as follows:
British metallers PARADISE LOST have opened a 2005 Tour Photo Gallery containing 140 photos sent in to the band by fans throughout the band's current tour. Check it out at this location:http://www.paradiselost.co.uk/viewgallery.php?id=9.
Danish thrashers HATESPHERE have set "The Sickness Within" as the title of their upcoming album, due on September 26 via SPV Records. 
An audio sample of a brand-new CHARON track, entitled "Colder", is available for download from ' .
The cover artwork for CHILDREN OF BODOM's upcoming album, "Are You Dead Yet?", has been posted online at ' .
Two tour dates in November in My Dying Bride's home country, are confirmed: November 18 they will play at the Astoria in London, and November 19 at Club Rio in Bradford. More as we get it.
IRON MAIDEN singer Bruce Dickinson's new solo album, "Tyranny of Souls", has registered the following first-week chart positions around the world:
MORBID ANGEL bassist/vocalist David Vincent and GENITORTURERS frontwoman Gen have issued the following plea for help in the case of missing MORBID ANGEL guitarist Tony Norman (ex-MONSTROSITY):
The Swedish black metal band are currently in the Dug-Out Studios in Uppsala, Sweden to record their new album with Daniel Bergstrand (Meshuggah, Strapping Young Lad, In Flames, Behemoth a.s.o.) as producer. Lord Ahriman have posted the following message at the band's official discussion forum: 
German power metallers GAMMA RAY have posted the following message on their official web site:
German power metallers GRAVE DIGGER filmed their "25-Year Anniversary" show on May 7 at the TV Direct Music Hall in Sao Paulo, Brazil for an upcoming live CD/DVD, tentatively due October 17. The group's setlist was as follows:
Italian "extreme epic metal" act STORMLORD have parted ways with keyboardist Simone Scazzocchio. "There were no discussions or troubles with him, he was simply not interested in playing metal music anymore," the band write in a press release. "Our split has been friendly, we kept good relations and we wish him the best.
Century Media Records has set a September 20 release date for the new GOD FORBID album, entitled "IV: Constitution of Treason".
Metal Temple magazine recently conducted an interview with SUIDAKRA vocalist/guitarist Arkadius. An excerpt from the interview follows:
Italy's THY MAJESTIE have finished recording their new album, provisionally titled "Jean D'Arc", for a tentative September release via Scarlet Records. The band, who recently announced the addition of singer Giulio Di Gregorio (IRENCROS) to the group's ranks, cancelled a couple of festival appearances earlier in the year. The group's last studio album, "Hastings 1066", was released in 2002.
On May 11, 2005 veterans of Russian metal scene GRENOUER released new EP entitled "T R Y" comprised of three tracks mixed
According to EMI Spain, IRON MAIDEN are contemplating the release of "The Trooper" CD single to launch their upcoming "Eddie Rips Up The World Tour". The single may also serve as the promo single for the forthcoming "Death on the Road" DVD/CD, to be released on August 29.
Audio samples of two tracks from the forthcoming ROYAL HUNT album, entitled "Paper Blood", have been posted online at the group's official web site. Check out the songs "Paper Blood" and "Not my Kind" at ' .
Reunited '80s Thrash band ROTTING CORPSE, whose original lineup included current SOLITUDE AETURNUS mainman John Perez and former DEATH touring guitarist/roadie Walter Trachsler, have announced their first comeback show. The group will be performing at Division One in Arlington, Texas on May 28.
CANDLEMASS's video for the track "Black Dwarf" has been posted online at ' (Real player required).
The second album of Italy's most brutal band HOUR OF PENANCE if finished!! "Pageantry For Martyrs" is the sophomore release of this incredible outfit that already impressed the scene with their debut album "Disturbance" in 2003 which got nothing but excellent reviews everywhere. This new album has a superb production and shows a more intense, brutal and mature band that definitely stablish their name in the scene and will be specially appreciated by fans of bands like HATE ETERNAL, NILE and SUFFOCATION. 
Finnish metallers PAIN CONFESSOR have posted the following message on their official web site:
AFTER FOREVER drummer André Borgman, who was diagnosed with cancer earlier in the year, has posted the following message on the group's official web site:
SIX FEET UNDER's video for the track "Shadow of the Reaper" has been posted online at ' .
THE GATHERING drummer Hans Rutten has issued the following update: 
CANNIBAL CORPSE are scheduled to enter Mana Studios in Tampa, Florida in October with producer Erik Rutan (MORBID ANGEL, HATE ETERNAL) to begin recording their new album, tentatively due in early 2006 via Metal Blade Records. "We have only one upcoming concert, and that is the Party.San Open Air festival in Germany on August 13", said bassist Alex Webster. "Other than that, we have no plans for any live performances for the rest of 2005." 
Dutch thrashers OCCULT have uploaded their video for the track "Bleed for Me" at their ' .
RUINA RECORDS, subdivision of GRIFFIN MUSIC, presents “In Loneliness Of Two Souls” – дебютный альбом похоронной церемонии AUTUMNIA.
Late June will see the release of the new Demons & Wizards CD "Touched By The Crimson King" with the following tracks:
Five songs from the upcoming NAPALM DEATH album, "The Code is Red...Long Live the Code", will be streamed online at the German Metal Hammer web site. Each day this week, a new song will be added to the page, beginning with "Silence Is Golden". Check it out at ' .
New releases just out through the label:
New details from the organizator of Ukrainian open air fest Metal Heads Mission.
Wroth Emitter Records have reported that the re-issue of the back work ' by doom-death masters SAINTS EVERLASTING REST (Moscow, RU) is up ready. Release date set as April 9. The CD will be available from the Gorbushka store (Moscow, RU) and via ' .
Sweden's THYRFING will enter EMI Studio in Stockholm on April 18 with producer Henrik Edenhed (LAMBRETTA, THE SOUNDS) to record their fifth, as-yet-untitled album. The follow-up to 2002's "Vansinnesvisor" (Hammerheart Records) will be mixed later during the summer for a fall release via Regain Records.
DREAM EVIL, the Swedish band featuring acclaimed producer Fredrik Nordström (HAMMERFALL, IN FLAMES, DIMMU BORGIR, SPIRITUAL BEGGARS, etc.) and drummer Snowy Shaw (KING DIAMOND, MERCYFUL FATE, MEMENTO MORI, NOTRE DAME), have postponed the recording sessions for their fourth album until August/September from the previously announced late May. The delay is being attributed to the band's desire to spend more time writing and demoing new material before entering the studio.
As it is said in Siberian Black Metal Dark Horde mailing list:
Death Metal veterens BENEDICTION have finally started work in earnest on their follow-up album to 2001's "Organised Chaos". Vocalist Dave Hunt, guitarists Darren Brookes and Peter Rew, and bassist Frank Healy will be assisted in the writing and fine-tuning of the forthcoming tracks by their old drummer, Neil Hutton, and ex-DIMMU BORGIR/CRADLE OF FILTH skinsman Nick Barker. It has not yet been determined who will be drumming on the new release, but the live drummer will more than likely be Nick Barker. Barker has been a longtime friend of the band and shares their love of all things Metal. Also rumoured to be assisting the band during the writing process are various members of MISTRESS, ANAAL NATHRAKH and BOLT THROWER. No further information is available at this time.
Swedish power metallers NOCTURNAL RITES have uploaded their video for the track "Avalon" at this location.
German thrashers DEW-SCENTED have set "Issue VI" as the title of their new album, due in Europe on June 20 via Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Impact", "Issue VI" was recorded at Stage One studios in Borgentreich, Germany with producer Andy Classen (CALLENISH CIRCLE, TANKARD, OCCULT). Classen, who produced the previous DEW-SCENTED albums "Inwards" (2002) and "Impact", "did an outstanding job once [again] and definitely managed to deliver his best production (for us, at least...) ever! We look forward to sharing these new songs with everybody!" the band write on their web site.
Russian "angry" metallers HOSTILE BREED will be supporting SOULFLY on their upcoming Russian tour beginning on April 21. 
As a message on PECCATUM's website says, "A new PECCATUM EP entitled “The Moribund People” is just about ready. This release contains two new songs and a special cover of Bathory’s legendary “For All Those Who Died”. The EP will also include a music video for the title track. Release date for Europe will follow shortly."
Dutch melodic death metallers CALLENISH CIRCLE have issued the following update:
Italian Black Metallers ABORYM, now featuring former EMPEROR and current SCUM drummer Bard "Faust" Eithun, have inked a two-album deal with Season of Mist. After comparing several offers from European and
Swedish Experimental Extreme Metallers MESHUGGAH have finalized the track listing for their
SOILWORK vocalist Björn "Speed" Strid and BLIND GUARDIAN drummer Thomen Stauch are currently seeking a name for their new project. The collaboration, which originally went under the COLDSEED moniker, is described by Strid as "a mixture between RAMMSTEIN and ALICE IN CHAINS." A full-length album is currently being recorded and is due later in the year.
BESEECH news:
If you read this text, means to you development of a underground on our stage is not indifferent.
Sometimes they are back!!!
Fans of the Swedish heavy metal band HAMMERFALL will be able to chat with Oscar Dronjak (guitars) and Joacim Cans (vocals) at ' on Thursday, February 3 beginning at 2:00 p.m. (CET). 
Sweden's WOLF have been confirmed for the Rock Hard Festival, set to take place May 13-15 at Amphitheater in Gelsenkirchen, Germany. The complete list of bands currently scheduled to perform at the festival is as follows:
Sweden's IN FLAMES won the "P3 Guld" award from radio station P3 in the "Best Rock/Metal Album Of The Year" category (for their 2004 release "Soundtrack to Your Escape"). Other nominees in the "Rock/Metal" category included NASUM (for "Shift"), THE HIVES (for "Tyrannosaurus Hives"), THE HAUNTED (for "rEVOLVEr") and CULT OF LUNA (for "Salvation"). The award ceremony took place Saturday (Jan. 22) in Gothenburg, Sweden.
The video for Israeli band ORPHANED LAND's ambitious song "Ocean Land" from their Century Media debut, "Mabool", has been posted online at ' . Shot in Israel, it is the band's first video, and was filmed in the midst of hundreds of Medusa jellyfish where the band got "jellied" repeatedly. Vocalist Kobi Farhi sang for hours underwater, and unintentionally drank gallons of water. Guitarist Matti also performed his guitar solo underwater. 
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.
KAMELOT will head to Sweden to shoot the videos for "March of Mephisto" and "The Haunting" with director Patric Ullaeus of Revolver Films (LACUNA COIL, DIMMU BORGIR, IN FLAMES).
Sweden's CENTINEX have set "World Declension" as the title of their new album, tentatively due in June via Cold Records (a subsidiary of Metal Blade). The group's follow-up to this year's "Decadence - Prophecies of Cosmic Chaos" will be recorded in March. No further details are currently available.
Sweden's IN FLAMES are currently working on a DVD, entitled "A Night In Flames", featuring the band on their 2004 world tour. The last stop on the trek is the special IN FLAMES show in London (Carling Apollo Hammersmith) on December 27, whre the group will be joined by LACUNA COIL, CHIMAIRA and CALIBAN. The show will be filmed with several cameras and a seven-meter long crane. "The IN FLAMES material looks great and I'm very exited about finishing these concerts," director/producer Patric Ullaeus of Revolver Films said. 
Chicago doomsters NOVEMBERS DOOM have parted ways with bass player Mike LeGros. Mike played bass with the band for the past two years, and contributed to the recording of the upcoming CD, "The Pale Haunt Departure". "It was brought to our attention that he was not comfortable in the band due to creative differences, and the dedication to his instrument we required suffered because of this," the group said in a statement. "Very simply, it was time for a change, on both sides. Mike is an amazing person, and we are forever grateful for everything he did for NOVEMBERS DOOM during his time with us. We wish him nothing but the best with DISINTER, NACHTMYSTIUM, and any other project he aligns himself with!
Swedish thrash titans THE HAUNTED will be the featured guests on MTV2’s Headbangers Ball this Saturday, Dec. 4th. The group are currently wrapping up the Devastation Across The Nation Tour alongside Damageplan and Shadows Fall; look for them to make their U.S. return in the spring. Their new video “All Against All” was shot by acclaimed director Roger Johansson (In Flames, Soilwork), expect a new video for the track “99” to surface early next year. 
Wroth Emitter presents debut album of Moscow-based progressive death metal band DEIMOS, "Never Be Awaken".
German death metallers DISBELIEF have completed work on their sixth album, "66 Sick", at Antfarm Studio in Aarhus, Denmark with producer Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, HATESPHERE, MNEMIC). Songtitles set to appear on the 11-track effort include "Crawl", "For God?", "Edges" and "Lost In Time". A March 14, 2005 release via Nuclear Blast Records is expected.
PARADISE LOST are tentatively scheduled to release the first single from their new album in late January, with the full-length CD to follow in February. The group's world tour in support of the album is expected to kick off in April.
Norwegian black metallers MAYHEM have parted ways with singer Maniac (real name Sven Erik Kristiansen) and replaced him with Attila Csihar (TORMENTOR, ABORYM). Csihar had previously worked with the group on their 1993 release, "De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas". 
POISON frontman Bret Michaels' red Fender Strat guitar (' ) was stolen during the last song of Bret's set at McCools in Valparaiso, Indiana on Friday November 12, 2004.
GRENOUER and TARTHARIA one after another completed mixing new promos at Astia Studios, Finland with Anssi Kippo as sound producer (CHILDREN OF BODOM, ENTWINE, TWILIGHTNING, etc.).
Guitarist Aleksi Sihvonen of Finnish melodic thrash/death metallers IMPERANON recently recorded a song called "Pentatonic School" with a young and talented keyboardist by the name of Risto Kupiainen. You can download the track here.
LACUNA COIL singer Cristina Scabbia has told MTV.com that the band are not expecting to record any of the songs they've written over the past 18 months until at least the end of the year. "Waiting for that to happen will just make me more excited for when we do the actual recording of the album," she said. "The new songs we have will be an evolution of 'Comalies' [2002], but not a huge change. I hate bands that are changing every album, because that's not a natural evolution. LACUNA COIL will be recognizable on the next album. This is how it has to be."
STRATOVARIUS singer Timo Kotipelto performed several classic heavy metal covers with Finland's HEAVY LILJA ORCHESTRA. "In the orchestra there were one cello, one violin, one alto violin and one flute," the posting reads. "They had three Finnish singers singing on most of the songs. The most known singer out side Finland is Timo Kotipelto of STRATOVARIUS. The other two are also very talented singers but only known in Finland — Maija Vilkkumaa (female) and Kirka."
Official release date of debut album "Winter Wood" (cover ' ) of Russian progressive folk metal band TUMULUS is set on September this year through Wroth Emitter.
Withcraft Productions (label, founded by Black Minds webzine) presents the release of debut of cult Russian band TWILIGHT IS MINE. The name of album is "When The Twilight Covers The World" and after some years of forgetfullness finally comes out as limited edition. Nine tracks of full of coldness true Black metal with occult breathe and atmospheric passages.
The new yet untitled BAL-SAGOTH album will hit the stores in early 2005 – the band is confident to finish the major studio work during autumn. BAL-SAGOTH sixth record shall content all trademarks the guys are adored for: Dark Fantasy Metal with elements of Death and Black.
Long-running Austrian extreme metallers PUNGENT STENCH have completed work on their new album, "Ampeauty" (view cover ' ), due on September 6 through Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to 2001's "Masters Of Moral - Servants Of Sin" will contain the following track listing:
Moonfog Records has set a September 6 release date for the new DARKTHRONE album, "Sardonic Wrath". The follow-up to last year's "Hate Them" features cover artwork by Lorenzo Mariani (MARDUK, ABORYM) and contains the following track listing:
TARTHARIA second album "Abstract Nation" released through Crash Music Inc on October, 2004. Mixed by Anssi Kippo at ASTIA-A Studio. Nice sound production. Frontcover inspired by creativity of John santerineross. TARTHARIA debut was released in autumn 2003 by Crash Inc and got vivid response among death/black metal fonders. "Abstract Nation" is more into thrash metal traditions but basically keeps death/black metal line.
The band have postponed their plans to record this year, stating that they need more time to develop their ideas without rushing things. A blow to their many fans, but we can assure you it will be well worth the wait!
Classic German power metallers STORMWITCH have signed with Nuclear Blast Records. The group will release their ninth album, "Witchcraft", on November 8. In addition to founding member and vocalist Andy Mьck, the group's current lineup features the guitar players Fabian Schwarz (ex-TYRAN PACE) and Martin Winkler (ex-NIGHTWOLF), bass player Dominik Schwarz, keyboardist Alexander Schmidt (ex-TYRAN PACE) and drummer Marc Oppold (ex-TYRANT).
Roadrunner Records has announced the track listing for the upcoming soundtrack to the "Resident Evil: Apocalypse" movie, due on August 31.
The epic black metal with heavy hitting symphonies will prove that they are not just another black metal band. The band’s debut album "Reign of the Unholy Blackened Empire" was produced by Glen Drover (EIDOLON) and mastered by Andy LaRocque (KING DIAMOND). Look for it this October.
Jorg Michael (STRATOVARIUS) has replaced Fritz Randow on drums for upcoming tours and the next album dubbed ‘Lionheart’ - Randow has left the Saxon to pursue other projects but may rejoin the band in the future.
Deicide have abruptly ended their 'Scars Of The Crucifix' European tour before even playing one date. After a performance at the Dynamo festival on June 5, the band entered the UK but declined to play the London show on Jun 8th- opting instead to fly home to Florida, citing their anger and frustration at the transportation and financial arrangements provided by the tour agent. It does not affect any other shows Deicide have booked in the USA, or their appearance at Wacken.
Finally a new satanic blast comes from OUPIRIC Productions (Russia). It's BESTIAL(RU) "Satanic Metal" MC-format limited 1000 pieces. Pro-printed obligatory black/white cover with pics, lyrics, info. Total old-school black/thrash alcoholic madness. For true Devil worshippers only! Features MAYHEM cover.
Music of Russian bands FESTERGUTS and TVANGESTE sounds in Canadian mystic triller "Sinners And Saints"! This ilm is already the participant of many movie festivals. Hellish mix of horror themes with martial arts, phantastics and some elements of erotism. The official release date of DVD is the end of this summer. Movie will be available in all continents trough the distributors, which specialize on such pictures. The fact of participating of Russian bands is a big success!
A debut album of Moscow(Russia)-based melodic death metal group EVERLOST, “Bitterness Of The Triumph”, was released on the 27th of March through Russian label ' .
Infamous prog stars SYMPHONY X are getting ready to enter the studio to lay down their new album. The band "will be giving bi-weekly (or so) studio reports with news and pictures as the writing process progresses." In the same time SYMPHONY X guitarist Michael Romeo has announced that he will be sharing his knowledge and skills this summer (July 26-30) with the students at the National Guitar Workshop in New Milford, CT.
So it has been done. Whole two entirely new albums by THERION due to Nuclear Blast/Irond records collaboration have appeared in the rock stores across the CIS states. The recordings of «Lemuria»/«Sirius B» have cost over 100,000 euros and have longed for nine months. There was 164 musicians and singers who participated in laying down these peaces, including the traditional for THERION’s stuff choir and this time full symphonic orchestra from Prague. Besides that, there are parties of Russian balalaikas and some lyrics written on the Bulgakov’s language as well. Henceforth, «Lemuria»/«Sirius B» could be easily considered as the one of the most significant achievements in metal music throughout its history. In the nearest future read the exclusive interview with Christopher Johnsson in The MetalList Webzine. The infamous musician is speaking on a concept of a new album, sharing with us his plans on the future and also revealing his expectations regarding the upcoming show in Moscow on October 18.
"Alone In The Dark", the upcoming horror movie based on the popular computer game series, will also feature an appropriate dark soundtrack. The first bands confirmed for it are modern Thrash metallers MNEMIC (Ghost), Sweden's most successful Melodic Death export IN FLAMES (The Quiet Place) and also Sweden-based Melodic Death giants SOILWORK (Departure Plan), all stemming from Nuclear Blast! Also under discussion for the OST are US thrashers DEATH ANGEL, Finland's top sellers NIGHTWISH, German Power Metal chart breakers EDGUY, US stars ANTHRAX and many more.
Danish death metallers EXMORTEM have entered Antfarm Studio in Aarhus, Denmark on May 17 with producer Tue Madsen to record their fifth album, due later in the year. A total of nine songs will be recorded and mixed during the four-week session, including "Parasite Paradise", "Symbols Of Inhumanity", "Flesh Havoc", "The Human Rape Symphony" and "Fix Of Negativity". As musicians say "The album will show the most diverse and twisted side of EXMORTEM to date!" As previously reported, EXMORTEM filmed their April 30 appearance at the Fee Metal Festival in Aarhus, Denmark for an upcoming DVD, tentatively due before the end of the year. The as-yet-untitled disc will include behind-the-scenes footage and other interesting features 
EVERLOST, melodic death metal band from Moscow have recently issued their debut album via Soyuz Music. The CD has been titled as “Bitterness Of The Triumph” and appear to be a concept work, as it follows from the press release, «dedicated to controversy of the human nature, indifference and self-deceiving and struggle of spiritual and substantial». There are Andrey Smirnov from SHADOW HOST and Sergey Sergeev (SHADOW HOST, GULFSTREAM) who enter the band’s circa on guitar and back vocals respectively.
A new album of these folk metal legends, ‘A Semblance Of Normality’ is to be out only in September instead of previously set May 24. This delay happened due to problems with deal partners Dreamcatcher, who must have been sharing with Demolition Records their part of distribution questions. For the most impatient fans the mailorder sales through the band’s official web site have been started out…
FOREST STREAM from Moscow are currently working on their new album, the second one already for English label Earache Records. The title is to be ‘The Crown Of Winter’ and music is promised to become more brutal and more epic than the band’s debut, ‘Tears Of Mortal Solitude’. The album will be mixed and mastered by Dan Swano himself (a man who made sound of KATATONIA, DIABOLICAL MASQUERADE and many-many more). And the artwork is to done by Ivan Bragin, renowned for his collaboration with KATATONIA, FORGIVE-ME-NOT, AMON AMARTH and NIGHTINGALE…
The band INEXIST based in Jaroslavl have finished a new album called ‘Am I Senseless?’. The work is to be published by Russian label Stygian Crypt Prod. in June. Music on the new CD, as it goes straightly from musicians, is a piece of melodic fashion death metal in genre’s best traditions.
Germany's hard-working Medieval/Modern rockers SUBWAY TO SALLY are busily writing 
CELL DIVISION have announced that their album «Tsunami» will be released on May, 17th 2004. «Tsunami» was produced in Germany at the recording studios of Thommy Hein who has already worked with artists like Zeraphine, Tanzwut and Nina Hagen.
Austrian SUMMONING are on the doorstep to a new album. Six songs are already fix starters for the upcoming release. SUMMONING have already chosen several pictures and paintings for the booklet. The concept will be based on the main story of the Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien. SUMMONING wants to finish the producing process some time around autumn, so the release can be expected around December. By the way the new Kreuzweg Ost CD (Silenius’s side-project along with Martin Schirenc (PUNGENT STENCH, HOLLENTHON)) are also in finishing progression. 
Recently announced as main support to SUFFOCATION's European Tour, Swedish Death Metal killing machine INSISION have completed work on their brand new album due via Wicked World on July 12. Titled 'Revealed and Worshipped' and produced by NASUM's Mieszko Talarczyk, the album features 11 tracks of ferocious Death Metal and is once again characterized by conceptual lyrics from frontman Carl Birath. In related band news drummer Thomas Daun has left the band after completing some amazing work on the album, but this will not affect the upcoming tour as INSISION already have a more than capable replacement lined up.
THERM.EYE.FLAME has already written all the songs for their new album. More brutal, depressive and unusual stuff is expected. The band is currently going to start off recording in Southern Storm Studio. 
THE CHASM have begun the process of turning their new album into reality at Soto Sound Studios in Illinois. Early indications are that the album will still feature the same epic qualities and references to ancient worlds that have become the bands trademark within the underground.
Despite the regretful departure of guitarist Jack Owen, CANNIBAL CORPSE are not going to stop and keep preparing for the upcoming “Wretched Spawn” tour. Here are some words from bassman Alex Webster published on the band’s official site yesterday: “Hey everybody, Alex from Cannibal here. I just wanted to update everyone on how we've been doing since Jack quit the band last week. We are currently teaching another guitarist our set list for the "Wretched Spawn" tour, in preparation for our shows in Mexico later this month. Jack will be missed, and we wish him well, but we're not going to let his departure slow us down. Thanks to all of our fans for the great support, we'll see you on tour!” 
EWIGKEIT, Mr.Fog’s (ex-THE MEADS OF ASPHODEL) solo project, has signed to Earache Records. New album "Radio Ixtlan" is set for release on 12th July 2004.
Dutch death metaller SINISTER have officially decided to split up. "After 16 years of serving, SINISTER is no more…", Aad Kloosterwaard explains. "It was a hard decision for me, SINISTER was a way of life for me. But sitting behind the drum-kit for almost 20 years and having a full-time job is hard for me to combine." But Rachel and Ron will continue their musical career with their new band INFINITED HATE.
NIGHTWISH have set May 3rd as final release date for their upcoming 4 track single "Nemo". During the production, the band enjoyed the opportunity of working together with the London Session Orchestra which also recorded the soundtracks of "The Lord Of The Rings" and "Harry Potter". NIGHTWISH's new full length album "Once" is supposed to show up on June 7th across Europe.
German power metallers FREEDOM CALL have announced that a completely new live album "Live Invasion" will be available next month. Double CD taken during the band's show along with BLIND GUARDIAN last year will be released through SPV Gmbh and licensed for CIS states by Soyuz Music. The first of two CD's will contain live performance itself, while the second will carry EP 'Taragon', previously available only in France and Japan.
SAMAEL have signed with Regain Records. The band is currently writing new material for the next studio album. Besides that the band has finally returned on stage, and the USA tour with STRAPPING YOUNG LAD last year makes it a clear evidence. Now SAMAEL are going to participate Rotonde Festival on May 22.
CREMATORY, one of the most honoured bands on gothic metal stage, have finally been back from the dead with a completely new ‘Revolution’ album. The full-length, as it follows from the official statement, will contain 12 songs and a video on a title track as well. Release date is 03.05.2004.
DEVILS WHOREHOUSE, death-rock investigators with such infamous persons currently in line-up as B. War and Morgan of MARDUK, have recently issued a new longplay ‘Revelation Unorthodox’ for No Fashion Records. The band has the greatest inspirations evolving from the old platters by MISFITS and SAMHAIN, and this is what their own music like.
The upcoming album by Swedish death/thrashers IMPIOUS will be called "Hellucinations". The recordings will kick off in Studio Mega on the 30th of April. Release date is set to 4th of October and Thomas Ewerhard (covers for HYPOCRISY, CATAMENIA) has been hired for the artwork. Furthermore, the band will tour Europe in October as support for label mates AMON AMARTH.
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 3 May 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.
ATROCITY’s new LP is sheduled to be released April 26. Having “Atlantis” as a title, the album is promised contain a lot of intent and dynamic material and an impressive multimedia section as well. Both a regular jewel box and a digibook edition are expected. For more details, see the Album-of-the-Month section at Napalm Records official website www.napalm-records.com.
Dutch progressive metal band TEXTURES has decided to part ways with vocalist Pieter Verpaalen. Due to musical differences both parties decided it would be best to continue without each other. A new vocalist has been found already; Eric Kalsbeek (formerly of BRAINSHAKE) has joined TEXTURES and has performed with them from March 6th. By the way, the band’s video for the song 'Ostensibly impregnable' entered Dutch charts at number one, beating the other classic bands such as METALLICA , SLIPKNOT etc.
In the nearest future DARK FUNERAL fans will be granted a full-length live album, the first such coming from the band for over than ten years of black metal worship. Song material for the platter, vaguely titled «De Profundis Clamavi Ad Te Domine», has been taken during the band’s South America tour in September 2003. Track list is expected to be as following: Intro - The Arrival Of Satan’s Empire - An Apprentice Of Satan - The Dawn No More Rises - Thy Legions Come - Hail Murder - Goddess Of Sodomy - The Secrets Of The Black Arts - Vobiscum Satanas - Shadows Over Transylvania - Open The Gates - Ineffable Kings Of Darkness - Thus I Have Spoken - My Dark Desires - Armageddon Finally Comes.
OUPIRIC Productions (Russia) have made a new issue - MISANTHROPIC ART cassette "Possessed by Bestiality". 50 min of fast
US metal pioneers STEEL PROPHET have signed with Massacre Records! The new album with their new singer Nadir D'Priest will be called "Beware" and will be in stores on June 28th!
England's Anglo Saxon Epic Metallers FOREFATHER recently finished the recordings for their upcoming and meanwhile 4th album titled «Our Is The Kingdom». Forefather-member Wulftstan comments on the new album: " With "Ours is the Kingdom" we've taken Anglo-Saxon Metal to new heights of intensity and power. This time round we consciously focused on shorter, faster songs whilst still retaining the epic elements we're known for. The result is the most varied and compelling album we've produced to date and the best representation of the unique FOREFATHER style. It's been a long time in the making but we think most will agree that it's definitely been worth the wait!"
DRAGONLAND have signed a worldwide multialbum deal with CENTURY MEDIA RECORDS!!! The next album is almost ready for studio recording, which most likely will take place in Studio Fredman before summer. Might as well reveal some new songtitles: To The End of The World - The Returning - Calling My Name - The Dreamseeker - In Perfect Harmony - Starfall - As Madness Took Me
KUWALDA’s new album, named “Spasi i Sohrani”(“Save & Keep Safe”), is to hit the stores early in April. The album is promised to be heavier and more varied than its predecessor, and lyrically concerned with emergency events. That follows directly from the songtitles: 9-11 – Elektricheskaya Smert’ (Death From Electricity) – D.T.P. (Car Crash) – Alkogol’nyi Demon (Alcohol Demon) etc. Among the ones who have participated in recording there is a children choir, and the Lorelyai song is based on a poem by Geighne. 
With the forthcoming release of the mini album "The Dark Secret”, the Italian epic metal band RHAPSODY provides a taste of their long play album that is due in September of this year. It is the debut of a new style of Heavy Metal music created by RHAPSODY known as Film Score Metal.
Black metal legends, THORNS' mastermind, Snorre Ruch has been keeping busy with a variety of extra musical activities involving interesting exponents of the art world since the band's long awaited and much acclaimed self-titled debut in 2002. In the past few months alone, Snorre has created THORNS LTD, a separate outlet from THORNS, dedicated to making experimental music tailored specifically for art exhibitions. Contemporary Norwegian artist, Bjarne Melgaard's exhibition at the Palais De Tokyo museum in Paris earlier this year was Thorns Ltd's debut. A new composition will premier at New York artist, Banks Violet's show in London in September this year.
BLOODHEAD RECORDS are due to issue following titles: VINTERRIKET "Landschaften Ewiger Einsamkeit" and ANGEL’S DECAY "Odiumspace". Both albums will be available in MC format and will hit the stores, respectively, in May and early summer. The autumn release of DATURA’s new CD is expected as well.
SKYCLAD have announced the official release date for their next issue “A Semblance Of Normality”. It is Monday 24th of May.
Read what latest news KIND DIAMOND drumpounder Mr. Matt Thompson has to tell us!
BORKNAGAR have completed work on their sixth epic genuinely dubbed... "Epic". General line, as it follows from an official statement, apparently continues the perfect one that's been started on "Empiricism" few years ago. The album will be finally out only in June under fair patronage from Century Media. Meanwhile, the band's line-up has crushed once again with a sudden departure of guitar maestro Jens F. Ryland (who's been around since 1997) and bassman Tyr (formerly on stage with EMPEROR). Who will replace them on upcoming tour, has not been stated yet.
Finnish "pagan battle metal" act TURISAS have parted ways with bassist Mikko Tormikoski.
Young Finnish metallers present us finest power metal with their album "Transition".
Power metal group АРДА from Russia was formed in 2000 by Pavel Okunev - ex-singer of famous Russian band EPIDEMIA, for which Pavel has recorded two albums. In autumn 2003 label CD-Maximum signed a deal with ARDA to release their debut album "O Skitaniyah Vechnykh I O Zemle".
PAGAN REIGN have finished the recording and mixing of their new, third full-length album "Udely Byloy Very".
Last release of great Italian band is out for CIS and Baltian states through CD-Maximum. In this music combined dark metal, atmospheric, black, gothic.
Russian company CD-Maximum have licenced the debut album of Brazilian group VENIN NOIR, "Rainy Days Of October", which originally was released through Hellion Records in 2002.
Moral Insanity Prods. from Brest, Belarus licensed the albums of legendary Austrian grindcore maniasc IMPETIGO, "Ultimo Mondo Cannibale" and "Horror Of The Zombies" on CD specially for CIS and Baltian states!
Fans of legendary Russian band KRUGER were waiting for a long time the re-release of classic group's album "Rozhdennyy Mrakom" ("Born By Darkness"). Till this moment it could find this album only on vinyl in collections of metal music fans. "Rozhdennyy Mrakom" - second KRUGER album, which made the band the pioners of Russian death metal. Thanks to CD-Maximum album is avalaible for everyone.
HOSTILE BREED have presented the tenatively tracklisting and ' of "The Second Cut" album. Moscow-based, Russia art-studio "Traum" worked on the cover and inlay. For creation of cover picture were used photos of real 3-D models, false eye, which band's participants stole from the morgue and gave the designers. April, 2004 release trough Irond Records is expected.
Norway's EINHERJER have officially called it a day. The following is the group's statement on the matter:
MANTAS featuring Jeff Mantas - VENOM founder and guitarist and Tony 'Demolition' Dolan former ATOMKRAFT mainman and VENOM Bass/Vocalist have been, together with the rest of the MANTAS Band deep in rehearsals for their forthcoming appearences.
An MP3 clip of the brand-new NECARE track ' been posted online. 
The title track to SOULFLY's upcoming fourth full-length album, ' , has been made available for download in MP3 format.
PECCATUM, the Norwegian band featuring former EMPEROR frontman Ihsahn and his wife Ihriel, will release their new album, "Lost In Reverie", through Mnemosyne Records during the coming weeks.
Ukrainian doom/death metal band sent off the guitarist. New guitarist is now Oleg Baranov (SUBCONSCIOS VOID). Now group is fully in rehearsing with the new line-up. Next week musicians begin to record the demo tracks Dark Prophet and Law, which will apper on new album.
Dutch black metallers SAURON have set "For A Dead Race" as the title of their second full-length album, tentatively due in late 2004 through Neurotic Records.
Sweden's LAKE OF TEARS will enter the studio on Friday, February 13 to begin recording the follow-up to 2002's "The Neonai", entitled "Black Brick Road". "The album cover will be done by the brilliant artist Kristian Wahlin, who [has] painted all of the previous LAKE OF TEARS covers except 'Forever Autumn'," according to a post on the band's web site. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "The Greymen", "Black Brick Road", "Making Evenings", "Crazyman" and "A Trip With The Moon".
Swedish band, handled by Magnus Karlsson present their 3rd album. Fans of power metal won't be disappointed.
Group from Murmansk, Russia have released their third album, "Argotique" through CD-Maximum.
AVAILABLE NOW!
Brazilian melodic metallers ANGRA have posted a bunch of new photos taken during the recording sessions for the follow-up to 2001's "Rebirth", tentatively due this summer through SPV Records. Check them out ' .
Dutch extreme death/thrashers KATAFALK have posted a live video of the songs "Birthmark 666" and "Blind Envy" (recorded at Belgium's Frontfest) in MP4 format ' (file size: 52.5, Quicktime 6.5 required).
Swedish death metallers PAGANIZER have re-signed with Xtreem Music for the release of their new album, tentatively due in June. "Eight new songs has been written and arranged for the upcoming fifth PAGANIZER album," the band write on their web site. "We'll be entering Soundlab Studio again in late March to record the stuff and we're hoping to bring you the best PAGANIZER material to date. The new stuff is faster and heavier than any previous material but still totally in the same vein as always: brutal Swedish death metal. Songtitles are as follows:
Finland's STRATOVARIUS have announced the addition of a new singer and drummer to the group's ranks. New vocalist for STRATOVARIUS is called 'Miss K' (' ). She spent the last four years fronting a "melodic hard rock" band called AURORA K, with whom she performed a number of gigs in addition to recording a two-song single, titled "11th Hour".
Danish metallers WITHERING SURFACE have completed work on their fourth album, "Force The Pace", with producer Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, MNEMIC, RAUNCHY) at Antfarm Studio in Aarhus, Denmark. A late spring release through an as-yet-undetermined label is expected.
Swedish death metallers VOMITORY have completed work on their fifth album, "Primal Massacre", due on April 19 through Metal Blade Records. 
Arlington Heights, Illinois-based death metallers ENFORSAKEN have pushed back the U.S. release date of their sophomore album, "The Forever Endeavor", to March 23 through Century Media/Olympic Records. The album will be available internationally one day earlier.
Finnish goth-metallers ENTWINE have set "DiEversity" as the title of their new album, due in Finland on March 1 through Spinefarm Records (Century Media in the rest of Europe and the U.S.).
NEW BLACK, the new Los Angeles-based band led by former MACHINE HEAD/SOULFLY guitarist Logan Mader, have a total of 13 tracks under their belt, according to a posting on Logan's official web site. 
MISERY INDEX, the Baltimore, Maryland-based band featuring Jason Netherton (bass/vocals, ex-DYING FETUS), Sparky Voyles (guitar, ex-DYING FETUS, M.O.D.), Matt Byers (drums) and Bruce Greig (guitar, ex-DYING FETUS, NEXT STEP UP), will be filming a video for the track "The Great Depression" on January 31 at the Ottobar in Baltimore, according to a posting on the group's web site. 
CONSTRUCDEAD will release their sophomore album, "Violadead", on March 22 through Sound Pollution Records.
DIONYSUS, the Swedish/German melodic power metal act featuring the voice behind guitarist Luca Turilli's (RHAPSODY) solo work, Olaf Hayer, and ex-SINERGY drummer Ronny Milianowicz, have revealed the details of their sophomore album, "Anima Mundi" (Latin for "The Soul of the World"), due on January 19 through AFM Records.
New album of German brutal maniacs GOMORRHA called "Sexual Perversity By Autopsy" is finally out on ' . You will hear brutal death metal in vein of SEVERE TORTURE, DYING FETUS. Guttural vocals, sick lyrics,crushing drums... most brutal music from Germany. 
Former HYPNOSIA drummer Mikael Sjostrand passed away on Thursday, January 8 after a battle with skin cancer. He was 27 years old.
As usual this one comes pro-printed on glossy paper (A5, 24 pages) with full OUPIRIC Prods mail order catalogue inside and features
MIND ECLIPSE are searching for permanent vocalist with growling and screaming. Concert experience and experience of working in the band are not necessary. All interested contact to - ' .
Veteran German thrashers TANKARD have set a March 22 release date through AFM Records for their new album, "Beast of Bourbon". The follow-up to 2002's "B-Day" was recorded at Stage One studio in Buhne, Germany with producer Andy Classen and is slated to include such cuts as "Fistful Of Love", "Under Friendly Fire", "Genetic Overkill" and "Die With A Beer In Your Hand". The cover artwork was conceived by Sebastian Kruger, who has previously worked for the magazine Spiegel.
PANZER X, the solo project of VADER vocalist/guitarist Peter, have announced the details of their upcoming promotional CD.
Estonian band BESTIA guitarist Anres Kullaste, who is also known to his website ' , had some spare time meanwhile, so now he started to create something like estonian metal bands guide, where is basic information about bands (members, discography etc.). Estonian groups can contact ' .
Swedish "dark death metal" act RUNEMAGICK have completed work on their new album, "On Funeral Wings", at their own Magick Sound Studio for a spring release through Aftermath Music.
Norwegian power metallers MEMORIZED DREAMS will release their debut album, "Theater Of Life", in late February through Sound Riot Records.
A brand new KATAKLYSM track, titled ' , has been posted online in MP3 format.
SIRENIA, the Norwegian band featuring former TRISTANIA guitarist/vocalist Morten Veland, have posted a brand new track, titled ' in MP3 format.
Several soundclips from METALIUM's forthcoming album, "As One - Chapter Four", have been posted online at the group's official web site. The follow-up to last year's "Hero-Nation Chapter III" is due in Europe on February 23, 2004 through Armageddon Products/Soulfood and in the U.S. on March 9, 2004 through Century Media Records.
Finland's FINNTROLL will be releasing an EP, titled "Trollhammaren", in March containing one song off their forthcoming album plus four bonus tracks recorded in the same session. As previously reported, the upcoming full-length CD, "Nattfodd" (Swedish for "Nightborn"), will be issued in April. The follow-up to "Visor Om Slutet" was recorded at Sundicoop Studio in Savonlinna, Finland and features 10 songs. The band will also be making their debut video to coincide with the release of the full-length CD. ' a rough-mix version of the album track "Ursvamp" in MP3 format.
PAIN mainman Peter Tagtgren (HYPOCRISY) has posted the following message on the band's official web site:
DEATH BY DAWN, the German death metal band featuring former PESTILENCE/ASPHYX/BOLT THROWER frontman Martin Van Drunen, have posted a recently recorded demo track, entitled ' .
Pennsylvania-based death metallers INCANTATION are in the process of compiling material for their first DVD, to be released sometime next year through Brazil's Mutilation Records. The as-yet-untitled disc will include footage from the group's November 22, 2003 show in Sao Paulo, Brazil, plus vintage video footage that spans the band's 13 years of existence along with other rare footage that has yet to be determined. More information will be made available soon.
A brand new DECAPITATED track, titled ' , has been posted online. 
WAR Productions proudly presents:
Modern metallers ANTHRAX have to delay the filming of their new clip “What Doesn’t Die” until January 2004 due to time problems. "We needed a bit more time to plan things and get the production side in place" drummer Charlie Benante explains the situation. The video will be directed by Brian Posehn and shall feature a bunch of zombies as well as other creepy stuff. So get prepared for a weird and spooky mini horror movie!
The new opus of the Canadian deathsters KATAKLYSM, "Serenity In Fire", is finished and will be released on 8th March 2004. Singer Maurizio Iacono speaks about the new album as follows: “It's our most violent record since 'Temple Of Knowledge', but with the hooks of 'Shadows & Dust'”. And the hyperblasters are going to prove that soon – during the already confirmed No Mercy Festivals as well as several booked gigs all across Europe.
Swedish death metallers SANCTIFICATION have parted ways with bassist Jorgen Bylander and are currently seeking a replacement. Interested parties can contact the band at: ' . Only "talented and experienced" musicians need apply.
The re-issue of their early albums "Ill-Natured & Innoscent" (on one CD) is out NOW through Nuclear Blast in Europe. Check it out in case you would like to find out about Dew-Scented's roots! The band will very soon kick off touring Europe up till X-Mas with Nile & MISERY INDEX first and then joining the X-Mass festivals with Deicide, Destruction, Nile, MISERY INDEX, Amon Amarth and Graveworm!
LEAVES' EYES, the new band formed by ex-THEATRE OF TRAGEDY singer Liv Kristine Espenaes Krull and members of ATROCITY (who are fronted by Liv's husband Alexander Krull), have set "Lovelorn" as the title for their debut album, tentatively due on May 24, 2004 through Austria's Napalm Records.
IRON MAIDEN's video for their forthcoming single, "Rainmaker", has been posted at the group's official web site. The clip, which was shot at London's Roundhouse studios in Camden in September, was directed by Howard Greenhalgh, who also directed the video for the group's previous single, "Wildest Dreams".
A day after he failed to return to prison as scheduled following a short leave, Varg Vikernes was captured by the Norwegian police on a highway outside the country's capital.
OSKOREI Music proudly presents strong awaiting release of 2003 - legendary masterpiece of Iceland's SOLFSTAFIR - "Til Valhallar" album
SCARVE set release date for new album through Listenable Records for their third album, "Irradiant". As previously reported, the CD will be issued in a special, limited-edition digipak version, featuring loads of bonus stuff, including the video for "Emulate The Soul". 
Swedish power metallers ETERNIA will release their new single, "Shadow Gate", in November/December. The single will include three new "heavy" ETERNIA tunes recorded at Eurosound in Umea, Sweden by Anders Zackrisson. Cover artwork was, once again, created by Jenny Pettersson. You can view the artwork ' .
SHAITAN MAZAR, the new band featuring former NILE members Chief Spires (bass, vocals) and John Ehlers (guitar), have posted their entire four-song demo in MP3 format at their official web site.
Sweden's CENTINEX have announced the addition of drummer Ronnie Bergerstahl (JULIE LAUGHS NO MORE, AMARAN, MYNJUN) to the group's ranks.
Check Rep. label Napalmed presents various artists compact disc (2003 CD 010) ANOMALOUS SILENCER no.6 - noise, industrial, experimental, ... CD compilation.37 international artists, 80 minutes, CD-text, 16-page multicolor booklet w/complete artists' info You can order your copy for US$ or Euro 8,- (inc. p+p).Radek Kopel, Lipova 1123, 434 01 Most, Czech republic napalmed@volny.cz; napalweb.host.sk
News from DAWN OF DEFIANCE:
Worldwide premiere of new album of Finnish black/thrash/deathers TWILIGHT OPERA "The End Of Halcyon Age" delayed. Now it's due early 2004. For Russia, Ukraine and Baltian states this album was released earlier this spring through CD-Maximum.
Official news from AR - darkwave project from Ukraine.
Velingor (TUMULUS), vocalist of Russian black/death band MIND ECLIPSE decided to left the group. Now group is searching for the new vocalist. If it's interesting for you, you can write to xarfax@mail.ru. 
Russian art progressive folk metal group TUMULUS joined original drummer Ottar. Kurbat, who previosly played drums, became guitarist and Zus (guitar-player) left the band. 
MINISTRY are set to begin recording their new album on November 1. As a result, they will not be able to attend the Chicago Heros Awards ceremony next month honoring the group with a "Lifetime Achievement Award". Because MINISTRY cannot attend the event, the Chicago Heros Awards have decided to present the award to MINISTRY next year instead. 
Veteran German metallers PARADOX have announced plans to record a new studio album in early 2004. The as-yet-untitled effort will feature the same lineup as 2000's "Collision Course" (including current RHAPOSODY/occasional BLIND GUARDIAN fill-in drummer Alex Holzwarth), and will surface in late 2004 through Germany's AFM Records.
Swiss melodic metallers EMERALD have competed work on their third full-length album, "Forces Of Doom", at Mohrmann Studios in Bochum, Germany with producers Detlef Mohrmann and Axel Thubeauville. Included on the CD is a guest appearance by MAJESTY guitarist Tarek Maghary, who played a solo on the title cut, "Forces Of Doom". A January/February 2004 release through Germany's Crazy Life Music/Shark Records is expected. 
September 29, 2003 since Jesus Christ's born on English firm Rage Of Achilles Records (http://www.rageofachilles.com/) is out long sophomore album of blasphemic black metal project DER GERWELT, titled "Human Breed". ALbum was recorded with new line-up, featured participants of TALES OF DARKNORD (Alex Duke) and ROSSOMAHAAR (Lazar). Music of DER GERWELT changed a little, sound became more heavy and have elements of death and dark metal. Plus live work of session drummer! 
Danish death thrashers URKRAFT have set "Eternal Cosmic Slaughter" as the title for their debut album, tentatively due in the spring through Germany's Voice Of Life Records. The band, whose music has been described as an "uncompromising mix of pure death metal, melodies, harsh vocals and enough power to open the gates of hell," will enter Antfarm Studio (EXMORTEM, MNEMIC, RAUNCHY) in January 2004 with producer Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, KONKHRA) to record the album, which will contain nine "aggressive, thrashy death metal tracks."
GRIMFIST, the Norwegian band featuring ex-IMMORTAL drummer Horgh, are the final act to have been announced for the "Blackest Of The Black" show at London, England's The Forum on November 22. Other bands appearing on the bill are headliners DANZIG, MARDUK, ZYKLON, ORANGE GOBLIN and MELDRUM.
British black metallers THE MEADS OF ASPHODEL will issue their second album, "Exhuming The Grave Of Yeshua", later this month through Supernal Music 
Sweden's DIABOLICAL MASQUERADE, the side-project of KATATONIA guitarist Anders Nystrom (a.k.a. Blakkheim), have entered Studio Castillo in Stockholm with engineer David Castillo (live sound engineer for KATATONIA) to begin recording their fifth album, tentatively due in early 2004 through Avantgarde Music. The follow-up to 2001's "Death's Design" will be a musical "cross between 'Nightwork' (1998) and 'Death's Design' - in other words lots of horror, weirdness and METAL!" according to the band's official web site. No further details are available at this time.
Finland's SENTENCED have been accused of being secret "Nazi" sympathizers after penning a song in support of their local hockey team which contains lyrics that allegedly include the motto used by the Hitler Youth organization (Hitler Jugend) during the 1930s. 
DEVILS WHOREHOUSE, the side project of MARDUK guitarist Morgan Hakansson and bassist B. War, will participate in a compilation CD entitled "This Is Horror Punk". The album will be a limited-edition release through Fiendforce Records and is expected to be issued on Halloween (October 31). Other groups set to appear on the album include THE UNDEAD (featuring Bobby Steele, ex-MISFITS), BALZAC, ROCK CITY MORGUE (featuring ex-WHITE ZOMBIE bassist Sean Yseult, GRAVEYARD BOULEVARD (ex-FRANKENSTEIN DRAG QUEENS), and X-WARD (featuring Dr. Chud, ex-MISFITS, on vocals and guitar). 
A brand new IMAGIKA demo track, titled ' , has been posted online.
H.I.M.'s video for the song "Buried Alive By Love" has been posted online at the G.U.N./ Supersonic Records web site. Check it out: 
Stockholm, Sweden's MELDRUM, the band featuring former PHANTOM BLUE guitarist Michelle Meldrum, have been confirmed as one of the support acts on DANZIG's upcoming European mini-tour. The trek, which is scheduled to kick off in late November, will include a one-off U.K. appearance in London on November 22 under the "Blackest Of The Black" banner. 
German black metallers AGATHODAIMON will shortly begin pre-production on their fourth album, "Darkened Days", tentatively due in May 2004 through Nuclear Blast Records. The band, who were recently joined by bassist Darin "Eddie" Smith, will once again record the next album at Kohlekeller Studio with producer Kristian Kohlmannslehner (CREMATORY). 
Austrian death/black metal act BELPHEGOR have signed a deal with Napalm Records for the release of their fourth full-length album, "Lucifer Incestus", tentatively due in late November. 
MESHUGGAH vocalist Jens Kidman has recorded a guest appearance on MUSHROOMHEAD's forthcoming CD, "XIII", due on October 14 through Universal Records. Kidman reportedly shares lead vocal duties with MUSHROOMHEAD frontman Jason Mann in the track "The Dream Is Over". As previously reported, MESHUGGAH have started writing material for the follow-up to last year's "Nothing", tentatively due in late 2004/early 2005
Swedish black metallers LORD BELIAL have announced the addition of guitarist Hjalmar Nielsen to the group's ranks. Nielsen replaces Niclas "Pepa" Andersson, who left the band in early July for reasons that have yet to be disclosed. Niclas' decision to exit the group came several weeks after the departure of drummer Michael Backelin, who has since been replaced by RUNEMAGICK/ex-RELEVANT FEW skinsman Daniel Moilanen (half-brother of former SHOTGUN MESSIAH guitarist Harry K. Cody). LORD BELIAL recently entered Los Angered Recording in Angered (Gothenburg), Sweden to begin recording their new album, tentatively titled "The Seal Of Belial". The self-produced effort is being engineered by Nicklas Rudolfsson and Andy La Rocque (KING DIAMOND), and will be mixed by Andy. A late 2003/early 2004 release through Regain Records is expected.
A second MP3 clip from the forthcoming STRATOVARIUS album, "Elements Pt. 2", has been posted online at the group's official web site. The track "I'm Still Alive" is track No. 3 on the upcoming CD, due on October 27 through Nuclear Blast Records. 
APOCALYPTICA's video for their collaboration with German punk rock diva Nina Hagen on a cover of RAMMSTEIN's "Seemann" has been posted online in Real Media format at the following location:
A brand new ANATHEMA track, titled ' , has been posted online MP3 format. 
VADER have just issued a new mini-CD, titled "Blood", through Metal Blade Records. The seven-song effort contains two new songs, "We Wait" and "Shape-shifting", which were recorded over a one-week period beginning on July 10 at Red Studio with engineer Piotr Lukaszewski ("Reign Forever World", "Revelations").
A five song preview of the forthcoming KING DIAMOND CD, "The Puppet Master", ' . 
Finnish metallers INSOMNIUM are completing work on their sophomore album, tentatively due in early 2004 through Candlelight Records. "The mixing will be finished during this week and the mastering will take place somewhere in the next month," the band write on their web site. "We will update these pages soon and add studio diary and some pictures from the session, but first we have to take few week break and just relax. We really need to get our minds away from this long and stressing effort and concentrate for a while to our studies and day jobs. After that we have more energy and strength to keep on going. So all you need is little patience."
Swedish thrashers THE CROWN have posted full-length MP3 of their new track ' . 
DESTRUCTION's latest CD, "Metal Discharge", is available in Europe in a double-CD edition featuring several bonus tracks not found on the regular version. 
A brand new WOLVERINE track, titled ' , has been posted online in MP3 format. 
Sweden's TIAMAT have finished filming the promotional video for their new single "Cain" with Revolver Film Company's (www.revolver.se) award-winning director Patric Ullaeus (DIMMU BORGIR, WITHIN TEMPTATION, PASSENGER). 
Finnish black metallers ARTHEMESIA have parted ways with drummer Mor Vethor. 
Reunited Long Island, New York-based death metallers PYREXIA, who recently signed an exclusive distribution deal with Crash Music, will be entering Sabella Studios in October to record their newest full-length opus, "Cruelty Beyond Submission". A January 2004 release via a partnership between Rex Records (PYREXIA's label) and Deepsend Records is expected.
Finnish melodic death/doom metallers SWALLOW THE SUN, who feature several members of FUNERIS NOCTURNUM, have set "The Morning Never Came" as the title for their debut album, due in November through Firebox Records. "The Morning Never Came" was recorded at Sam's Workshop with producer Sami Kakko. 
SENTENCED has recorded supporting song for Oulun Karpat, ice hockey team in Oulu. Song is called "Routasydan" and its first ever Sentenced song in Finnish. Song is composed by Miika Tenkula and lyrics are by Sami Lopakka. 
Sweden's CONSTRUCDEAD, the band featuring TERROR 2000 drummer Erik Thyselius, have set "Violadead" as the title for their sophomore album, tentatively due in January through Sound Pollution Records. 
The release date of ICED EARTH's new album, "The Glorious Burden", has been officially pushed back to January 13, 2004 (a day earlier internationally), according to SPV Records. A single containing the tracks "The Reckoning (Don't Tread On Me)", "When The Eagle Cries" (Unplugged), "Valley Forge" and "Hollow Man" will be released on October 27. "The Glorious Burden" is the group's first CD to feature new vocalist Tim Owens (ex-JUDAS PRIEST), who replaced Matt Barlow earlier in the summer. The follow-up to 2001's "Horror Show" features Owens alongside ICED EARTH mainman Jon Schaffer (guitar), Richard Christy (drums, ex-DEATH, CONTROL DENIED), James MacDonough (bass) and Ralph Santolla (guitar, EYEWITNESS, MILLENIUM, ex-DEATH). 
SEETHINGS, the new Swedish band fronted by former DARKANE vocalist Lawrence Mackrory, have posted MP3 clips of three songs from their debut album, "Parallels", due in Europe and Scandinavia on October 27 through Scarlet Records. Check them out: 
Norway's SUSPERIA have signead a record deal for threee albums with Tabu Recordings - sublabel of Tuba Records. 
New live video tracks from SLAYER "South Of Heaven" and "Angel Of Death" are posted online on ofiicial Dave Lombardo site. Video was shoted in Sweden on Hultsfred Festival 2002. 
ANATHEMA will release their new album, "A Natural Disaster", in November trough Music For Nations Records. Follow uop to "A Fine Day to Exit" was recorded and mixed at Parkgate Studios (Hastings, England) except two tracks, which were mixed in Nottingam at Electric Mayhem. Producer is Dan Turner, and artwork by Travis Smith. 
Brand new song by EIDOLON, "Demoralized", posted online. It is from band's new album "Apostles Of Defiance", due to out on 6th October through Metal Blade Records. Tracklist is following: 
Swedish death metallers ANATA finished work on their new full-length album "Under A Stone With No Inscription", which will be released early 2004 through Earache Records. Tracklist:
Finland's "epic heathen metallers" MOONSORROW have signed a deal with Spikefarm (part of Spinefarm Records). First release for new label will be re-release of debut album "Suden Uni", with bonus track "Tulkaapa Aijat!" (NORDMAN "Kom Nu Gubbar" cover) and DVD with two promo videos and live video from festival Tuska 2003. Album also will have new artwork by Niklas Sundin (IN FLAMES, ARCH ENEMY, DARK TRANQUILLITY) and will be released on 8th of December.
Folk metal act SUBWAY TO SALLY (Germany) will release new album, "Engelskrieger" through Metal Blade on 6th of October, and Metal Blade will ditribute it on whole territory of Europe, except Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Spain, Greece and BeNeLux.
Germany-based progressiv power metallers SYMPHORCE, featured vocalist Andy B. Franck (BRAINSTORM) and guitarist Cedric Dupont (FREEDOM CALL), are going to record a new album this month. CD, tenatively entitled "Twice Second", will be recorded at House Of Music studio in Winterbach, Germany with legendary producer Achiem Keller (BRAINSTORM, PRIMAL FEAR). Some tracks name are known: "Fallen...", "Ignored By The System", "Two Seconds To Live" and "Turn Away". CD is due to out in January 2004.
PAGAN REIGN have already mastered and mixed their newest album "Otbleski Slavy I Vozrozhdeniye Bylogo Velichiya". It was recorded at CDM records. Release date is 10th of September this year through Sound Age productions. 
Swedish melodic power metallers MORIFADE recently finished the recordings for their new album. The album is titled "Domi<>nation" and the complete tracklisting is as follows: 
Polish label Agonia Records has signed a deal with Swedish Black brigade ARMAGEDDA, featured Graav (Vocals and Strings) and A. (Strings). Second full-length CD "Only True Believers" will be released at the end of September Company Beyond Productions will release vinyl version of album.
Third album by Italy's blackers HANDFUL OF HATE, entitled "ViceCrown", which will appear on 27th of October through Code666 Records. First 666 copies will be released as coolest limited edition in leather box. Artwork for album made artist Fabio (also made artwork for ARKHON INFAUSTUS, ABORYM, KHONKRA).
World wide known deathers MONSTROSITY have finalized tracklist for brand new album "Rise To Power". It was recorded in Audio Hammer studios in Sanford Florida with sound-engineer Jason Soucof. Conquest Music Inc. will release CD on 23rd of September this year.
Church and city government have forbidden the performance of ANCIENT CEREMONY at Summerbreeze Open Air (one of Europe's biggest Metal festivals) because of the band's Satanic and blasphemous attitude! Promoters were even set under pressure by getting told the whole event was cancelled if the band was allowed to play so that the organizers had no other chance than taking them from the billing. This scandal is a fist into the face of the entire Metal scene and neither band nor management are willing to accept this cancellation without fighting against it. Of course ANCIENT CEREMONY will continue following their Satanic ethics consequently and are almost "proud" that they are the only controversial act that was chosen as "enemy" by these radical catholics - but there is no legal base for the behaviour from church and authorities so that ANCIENT CEREMONY hope for massive support from fans and media in fighting against this censorship!
New NIGHTWISH DVD "End Of Innocence" will be released in September through Spinefarm Records. It will include:
Denmark's RAUNCHY have set the tentative track listing for their sophomore album, due in early 2004 through Nuclear Blast Records. 
MOONSPELL have posted brand new song online. It's ' from new band's upcoming album "The Antidote", which will be released 19th September trough Century Media Records. CD was recorded at Finnvox Studios (Helsinki, Finland) with producer Hiili Hiilesmaa (H.I.M., SENTENCED, AMORPHIS).
New CD by Germans HARMONY DIES, "Impact", out now on Morbid Records, features 11 new tracks of fast and brutal Death Metal. 
Brutal-texhnical-shyzoid piece of extremal music with two crazy vocalers present French band ZUBROWSKA. Debut album, "One On Six", includes 12 tracks, musically wide from brutal death metal a-la CRYPTOPSY, DYING FETUS, CEPHALIC CARNAGE to metalcore a-la DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN and CONVERGE. CD will be released on 15th of September.
France's satanic death/black group VORKREIST will release their new album "Sabbathical Flesh Possession" on 15th of September. Their music is mix of old school death metal in spirit of ANGEL CORPSE and DIABOLIC and some black influenses, as IMMORTAL and early IMPALED NAZARENE. 
28 August Displeased Records will release new album of band MANEGARM, "Dodsfard". 
New album of Moscow-based black collective RADIGOST soon will be release on Russian label Stygian Crypt Productions. The recording of "For the honor of our truth... For the honor of our faith" is already finished. One song - ' you can download ' . 
Nikolaev(Ukraine)-based grind project SAPONIFICATION, featured two members of brutal death band LIFE DENIAL Max and Vaal, recently recorded their debut album "Paraxysm".
New album of Finland's IMPALED NAZARENE, "All That You Fear", with total running time 42:45. will be released world wide on 3rd of November 2003. Recorded at Astia studio with Anssi Kippo and mixed at Finnvox studio by Mikko Karmila. Final track listing is: 
Tim Owens finally decided to become permanent vocalist of ICED EARTH. Jon Shaffer posted a message on band's official website:
Hard Rock festival COREFEST - follower of THE GREAT COMMANDMENT FEST (since 1998, 28 festival acts, took part 58 bands from Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, Poland, Slovaky, biggest: September 2000 ("Zelenyy teatr", Hydropark, 1100 persons), October 2001 ("Zelenyy teatr", Hydropark, 1500 persons) and MONSTERS of ROCK.RU (July 2002, show-park "Obolon", 1800 persons).
Finland-based blackers AZAGHAL finished recording their MCD. "Kyy" will be released in October through Norway's Aftermath Music. 
"Pascal and Alex are no longer members of SINISTER. Ron v/d Polder is now our new permanent guitarplayer, he wrote "Cross The Styx", and also the latest album "Savage Or Grace". We already are working on the next album for Sinister called "Heaven Termination".", according to post on band's ofiicial website.
Brutal grinding death metal brigade EVISCIUM from Pittsburg (USA) will release through Polish label Still Dead Productions 6-tracks MCD "Underneath The Buried", where 3 songs from demo, remasteres with new vocal, and 3 new. 
Changes of line-up in Italy's GRAVEWORM. Guitarist Stefan Unterpertinger left the collective, he was replaced by Lukas, who earlier helped the band on bass (in last tour with AGATHODAIMON). New bassist became Harry, who was earlier guitarist of group, and also was one of the fouders of GRAVEWORM.
Norway's MADDER MORTEM have parted ways with bassist Paul (Pal Mozart Bjorke) and guitarist Eirik Ulvo Langnes. "Paul wanted to quit in order to be able to concentrate on his son 100% and also live a more 'normal' life compared to the rather 'abnormal' MADDER lifestyle," according to a post on the band's web site, while "with Eirik, we felt that it didn't work out like it should musically anymore, and it seemed like he didn't feel as comfortable playing in this band as much as the rest of us." 
Australian black/death/thrash ensemble ATOMIZER have finalized the track listing for their third studio album, "The Only Weapon Of Choice (13 Odes To Power, Decimation and Conquest)", due in Australia in late September. 
German ambient/gothic metallers DESPAIRATION have finished recording their fourth full-length album, "Music For The Night", for a November release through Holland's DVS Records. The band will enter X-Ton-Studio next week to master the effort, which will contain 18 songs and around 80 minutes of playing time. A record-release party is planned for October 30 at Rockwerk in Hof, Germany, featuring appearances by LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE, EWIGHEIM and an as-yet-undisclosed special guest. 
Sweden's DIMENSION ZERO have parted ways with ex-IN FLAMES Glenn Ljungstrom and are currently seeking a replacement. No reason was given for Ljungstrom's departure. 
Norway's THE KOVENANT have set "The Dreaming Spires" as the tentative title for their forthcoming album, due in early 2004 through Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to this year's "S.E.T.I." (Search For Extraterrestrial Intelligence) will apparently be "more guitar-oriented and darker" than its predecessor. Among the tracks set to appear on the CD is "Radiation King". 
Finland's CHARON have changed the title for their forthcoming fourth full-length album to "The Dying Daylights" from the originally announced "Dead Man Walking". The follow-up to last year's "Downhearted" is due on October 6 through Spinefarm Records. A new single containing the song "Religious/Delicious" and the non-album cut "The King Is Dead" will be released on September 1. 
Home-video footage of THE IRON MAIDENS — L.A.'s all-girl tribute to IRON MAIDEN that features in its ranks PHANTOM BLUE members Linda McDonald (drums), Josephine (guitar), and Sara Marsh (guitar) — jamming with former TESTAMENT/SAVATAGE guitarist Alex Skolnick on a version of MAIDEN's "The Trooper" has been posted online in Quicktime format. ' .
FLESHGORE & GOREZONE European Tour Dates 2003: 
A two-minute, 21-second MP3 clip from the forthcoming EDGE OF SANITY album, ' , has been posted online. "Crimson II", due on August 26 through Black Mark Records, is the group's first release since 1997's "Infernal" to feature multi-talented Swedish producer/musician/songwriter Dan Swano.
Stockholm, Sweden's MEMORY GARDEN, the band featuring former ABSKTRAKT ALGEBRA guitarist Simon Johansson, are in talks with an as-yet-undisclosed label about a new record deal for the group. "It all seems very promising and we really hope it all will turn out well," Johansson writes on the band's web site. "We can't give you any details for the moment but we thought it might be fun to tell you that something is happening in the our garden...:) As it looks right now we will record in the fall together with Mike Wead (producer, MERCYFUL FATE guitarist) and we are aiming for an early 2004 release."
Reunited doom legends TROUBLE, who recently replaced longtime bassist Ron Holzner with Chuck Robinson (formerly of THIS TORTURED SOUL), will enter the studio on Saturday, August 9 to begin recording a seven-track acoustic compilation of classic TROUBLE material. The as-yet-untitled EP, which will also include a brand-new song written by Robinson and singer Eric Wagner, will only be available on the band's web site, www.newtrouble.com. In other news, the band will be traveling to Sweden and Holland in November to play some shows. More details will be made available soon. As previously reported, TROUBLE are set to enter the studio in October with producer Vincent Wojno (MACHINE HEAD, KREATOR, KONKHRA) to record their long-awaited new album, titled "Seven". According to frontman Eric Wagner, 15 songs have been written so far for the album, including "After The Rain", "Seven", "A Bad Situation", "Goin' Home", "Doombox" and "A New Generation". "It's still heavy, it's still TROUBLE, maybe a little more modern," says Eric. "It's still us. It's our seventh album and it was going to be seven years since our last album, but now it's going to be a little more."
Recordings of debut work by Greek brutal death metallers INVERACITY finished. CD entitled "Circle Of Perversion" due in November on Unmatched Brutality Records. Tracklist:
New album of blackers TIDFALL "Nucleus" is currently in stores! The complete tracklistibg is:
MACHINE HEAD have set the tentative track listing for their forthcoming album, "Through The Ashes Of Empires", due in Europe on October 13 through Roadrunner Records. The follow-up to 2001's "Supercharger" will feature the following cuts (in no particular order):
John O Fathaigh leaves CRUACHAN again.
DANZIG will be heading into the studio in a few weeks to begin recording their new album, tentatively due in late 2003/early 2004 through Spitfire Records. 
Vocalist Jape decided to end his career in TO/DIE/FOR. He told that he had no more motivation to go on with the band. Band wish him good luck in whatever he is going to do and thanks for great times with the band. Now group is looking for a new singer who can fill the huge hole which Jape left.
Finland's THROES OF DAWN are set to enter Sonic Pump studios in Helsinki on August 17 for five days to record the drums and bass for their fourth full-length album. According to the band's official web site, "10 new brilliant songs will be recorded in three parts," with guitars and synths scheduled to be tracked between September 30 and October 7, and the vocals and the mix due to be completed between November 5 and November 11. An early 2004 release through Avantgarde/Wounded Love Records is expected. In other news, THROES OF DAWN recently acquired three new members: Juha Ylikoski (guitar, ex-ROTTEN SOUND), Harri Huhtala (bass, ex-CARTILAGE, ex-VOMITURITION), and Jani Martikkala (drums, BLACK DAWN, ex-...AND OCEANS, ex-ENOCHIAN CRESCENT).
Former JUDAS PRIEST frontman Tim "Ripper" Owens has officially joined ICED EARTH. Owens, who left JUDAS PRIEST due to Halford's return, has already finished laying down vocals to the group's new album, "The Glorious Burden", which will be release this fall through SPV/Steamhammer Records.
Even though METALLICA's battle with Napster is fading into the past, critics of the band still hang on to it. Just last week, someone started an Internet hoax story — that METALLICA had copyrighted the chords D and F and would sue anyone who used them in a song. Guitarist/singer James Hetfield laughs uncontrollably when told of the story. "That's so awesome," he finally gasps. "I find that extremely funny."
ALCHEMIST taked their new video - for the song "First Contact". The video, from the band's highly-received new album "Austral Alien", was directed by ALCHEMIST drummer Rodney Holder and features stunning scenes incorporating Sci-Fi elements that depict alien abduction.
PRO-PAIN are set to return to action on August 26 with the release of their ninth studio album, "Run For Cover" (Spitfire). The album's unusual concept, containing cover songs from artists who have influenced the band. From metal monsters SLAYER ("South of Heaven"), MOTORHEAD ("Iron Fist") and CELTIC FROST ("Circle of the Tyrants") to punk/hardcore trailblazers DISCHARGE ("Never Again"), NEGATIVE APPROACH ("Nothing"), OPERATION IVY ("The Crowd"), BLACK FLAG ("Damaged II") and AGNOSTIC FRONT ("Your Mistake"). The album also includes a surprise remake from founder/front-man/bassist Gary Meskil's former band CRUMBSUCKERS ("Just Sit There") and LIFE OF AGONY's "Weeds".
Next few days in stores will appear GODFLESH tribute compilation. 26 bands took part in thus action. Full tracklist: