News Archive 3-03-11 American melodic metallers KAMELOT will embark on a full headlining North American tour in August/September. Support on the trek will come from ALESTORM, BLACKGUARD and THE AGONIST. Due to continuing medical and personal issues, KAMELOT vocalist Roy Khan will not be able to finish the remaining touring in support of the band's latest album, "Poetry For The Poisoned". He states, "I am here in Norway still recovering from what seems to have been a severe burnout syndrome. I am getting better, but still under medical care. My priorities at the moment are my health and family. My future endeavors in KAMELOT and music in general are being evaluated. However, at this time my focus is on getting back on my feet and spending time with family and friends. Thank you for your prayers and well wishes!" With the news of Roy's continued absence, KAMELOT has announced that metal icon Fabio Lione (RHAPSODY OF FIRE) will be handling the lead vocal duties on all the upcoming shows. Lione is eager to get on the road, stating, "I am excited and pleased to be part of the next KAMELOT tour. I always loved the sound of the band..and I think this will be a great experience for me, the band, and for all the fans of great music and KAMELOT. See you soon on tour and let's rock!!!" In addition to Fabio, throughout these shows there will also be special guest and vocal appearances from top artists in the scene. KAMELOT's North American tour dates: Aug. 26 - Atlanta, GA - The Masquarade Aug. 27 - West Springfield, VA - Jaxx Aug. 28 - Philadelphia, PA - The Trocadero Aug. 30 - New York, NY - The Gramercy Theatre Aug. 31- Worcester, MA - The Palladium Sep. 02 - Montreal, QC - Club Soda Sep. 03 - Quebec City, QC - Imperial De Quebec Sep. 04 - Toronto, ON - Mod Club Sep. 06 - Cleveland, OH - Peabody's Sep. 07 - Detroit, MI - Blondie's Sep. 08 - Chicago, IL - Bottom Lounge Sep. 09 - St. Paul, NM - Station 4 Sep. 12 - Seattle, WA - El Corazon Sep. 13 - Portland, OR - Peter’s Room Sep. 14 - San Francisco, CA - Slim's Sep. 15 - West Hollywood, CA - House Of Blues Sep. 16 - Tempe, AZ - Clubhouse Sep. 17 - Salt Lake City, UT - The Complex Sep. 18 - Denver, CO - Bluebird Theater Sep. 20 - Dallas, TX - Trees Sep. 21 - Houston, TX - Scout Bar Sep. 23 - Orlando, FL - The Club At Firestone U.K. based metal heroes DRAGONFORCE have announced that their long search for a new vocalist is finally over. After entries from thousands of hopefuls across the globe, the shredmasters supreme welcome 23-year-old Marc Hudson to the band to fill the boots left by ZP Theart, who parted ways with the band in March of last year. "I'm really excited about being a part of the DRAGONFORCE family," says Marc. "It's always been my dream to dedicate my life to making music. I'm going to bring all the power and emotion I can to the songs, and help make the killer new record the fans have been waiting for!" Born in Oxford England, Marc was picked from the thousands of applications via a number of impressive video auditions and live performances, which left the rest of the band in no doubt that they’d found their man. Since the age of 16, Marc has been building his vocal skills gigging with bands in the U.K. underground scene, developing a powerful style with influences which include Bruce Dickinson, Michael Kiske and Sebastian Bach. Commented founding member and guitarist Herman Li: "After almost a year of searching around the globe, it's great to be able to finally tell our fans the good news. Marc's expressive and melodic vocals are sounding phenomenal on the new songs, adding another dimension to the DRAGONFORCE sound that I am sure all the fans will love." The band has been working on a new album since early 2010, recording in various studios in California, London and the South of France. The follow-up to 2008's hugely successful "Ultra Beatdown" album will be highly anticipated, with top 10 and top 20 chart positions all over the world and a Grammy nomination in the United States setting the precedent. With Marc brought into the fold, the band is enjoying an injection of enthusiasm and hunger that sees DRAGONFORCE prepared to return more focused and determined than ever before. "Everyone in the band is extremely excited about how the new material is shaping up," continues Herman. "We haven't felt this kind of energy in the band for a long time. We can't wait to unleash the next DRAGONFORCE album later this year." The new album is expected to hit the shelves in September, with a full world tour to follow. According to KissOnline.com, KISS is putting together a exciting book about its early years spanning 1972-1975 and it is seeking help from the Kiss Army. The book chronicles the group's first key three years of existence, from formation to its breakthough with the "Alive!" album. Examples of what KISS is looking for circa 1972-1975 (from band's formation through the "Alive!" tour): * Candid and live photographs (images owned by you as copyright holder) * Domestic and foreign record ads ("Kiss", "Hotter Than Hell", "Dressed to Kill", "Alive!") * Press kits ("Kiss", "Hotter Than Hell", "Dressed to Kill", "Alive!") * Magazine covers (domestic and foreign) * Fillmore East press launch invitation (1-8-74) * Century Plaza launch invitation (2-18-74) * Concert ads * Tour posters * Press clippings/articles * Backstage passes * Album reviews * Concert reviews * Casablanca Records memorabilia * Cadillac High memorabilia * Cobo Hall 5-16-75 ticket stub * Concert riders * Casablanca Records paperwork (1973-1975) * Aucoin Management paperwork (1973-1975) * One-of-a-kind items Please note: KISS is not seeking to obtain original copies of your material; high-res scans will work fine. Specs required: * 300 DPI minimum * JPGs E-mail to: sharpk@aol.com ****If you have more than 1-2 items to contribute, please do not send by email, KISS would prefer to receive this material on a disc. Be sure that each file includes your name so you can be properly credited for use. Also, don't forget to include your contact details (name, address, phone, email) Mail to: Ken Sharp 16946 Burbank Blvd # 211 Encino, CA 91316 **By submitting this material, you provide consent to KISS to allow its use in the book. KISS will endeavor to provide credit to those who donate material. ** Swedish progressive metallers EVERGREY have confirmed a world-exclusive performance of their 2001 epic concept album, "In Search Of Truth", in its entirety at the ProgPower USA XII kick-off show on September 15 at the annual progressive and power metal festival held in Atlanta, Georgia. Commented EVERGREY frontman Tom Englund: "Glenn (Harveston, ProgPower USA festival promoter) asked me for a special show,….what else is new as he always does… hrmpff. So to pay tribute to one of our most loved albums, we decided to celebrate the tenth anniversary of 'In Search Of Truth' by playing the whole damned thing. This will be an exclusive for Atlanta and the ProgPower USA show alone. "One thing I do need to mention is that the backing tracks for the songs are long gone, BUT we will try to do it justice as well as we can. "Don't miss this shit as it will be an EPIC milestone....or failure! "This is Tom signing out from the rehearsing room, trying to learn the damn string-skipping part of 'The Encounter'." EVERGREY will also perform a U.S. exclusive acoustic show at the Mid-Week Mayhem on September 14 to start the week's festivities. Bands confirmed for the festival: ARCTURUS** CREATION'S END DARKWATER** DREAM EVIL** ELDRITCH** EVERGREY HAKEN** LABYRINTH** MOB RULES** RED CIRCUIT** SANCTUARY THERION** VANDEN PLAS** VOYAGER WHILE HEAVEN WEPT ** U.S. exclusive Ticket and show information can be found at the ProgPower USA web site. Seattle metallers NEVERMORE have tapped Dagna Barrera to play bass on the band's current "Power Of Metal" European tour with SYMPHONY X, PSYCHOTIC WALTZ , MERCENARY and THAUROROD. Regular NEVERMORE bassist Jim Sheppard underwent surgery on February 16 to remove a benign brain tumor and is said to be on his way to a full recovery. Dagna previously played bass in NEVERMORE singer Warrel Dane's solo project and is also a member of the Seattle-based progressive rock band ONE UNDONE. Fan-filmed video footage of NEVERMORE's February 28, 2011 performance at l'Elysée Montmatre in Paris, France can be viewed below. Sheppard in 2006 missed a number of NEVERMORE shows after undergoing a minor procedure for Crohn's Disease, a condition he's managed for nearly 20 years. Filling in for Sheppard was longtime friend James MacDonough (ex-MEGADETH, ICED EARTH). "The Obsidian Conspiracy", the new album from NEVERMORE, sold around 4,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 134 on The Billboard 200 chart. The CD landed at position No. 1 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.   2-16-11 Former SKID ROW frontman Sebastian Bach will head into the studio later this month with his new, young, virtuosic guitarist Nick Sterling and producer Bob Marlette (BLACK SABBATH, SHINEDOWN, ATREYU, FILTER) to record a brand new CD for a summer release via the Italian label Frontiers Records. Commented Bach: "Just had the greatest talk with my producer Bob Marlette. We are on exactly the same page with the new CD! He agrees with me that tracks 1-7 out of the 13 demos are pretty much done. "I have lived with these songs for over a year now and the songs have to be real good if I'm still digging them a year later! I have an open mind, though, to whatever magic occurs between Nick Sterling, Bobby Jarzombek [drums], Bob Marlette and myself. "We start the next record in Los Angeles, California this Monday! I could not be happier." Sebastian in 2009 collaborated with HATEBREED frontman Jamey Jasta on several tracks for Bach's new solo album, with Nick and Charlie Bellmore of the Connecticut band PHANTOMS assisting during the pre-production process. The singer has also written material with John 5 (ROB ZOMBIE, MARILYN MANSON). Bach is best known for selling 20 million albums as the former lead singer of SKID ROW. He has gone on to star on Broadway and television, including five seasons on CW's "Gilmore Girls", as well as hit shows on VH1, MTV and CMT. Bach's most recent studio project was "Angel Down", his first solo album since 1999. The record features 14 songs with a guest appearance by GUNS N' ROSES front man Axl Rose on three cuts, including a blistering version of AEROSMITH's "Back In The Saddle". Bassist Jim Sheppard of Seattle metallers NEVERMORE will undergo surgery today (Wednesday, February 16) to remove a benign brain tumor. The band's vocalist, Warrel Dane, says, "Please, all metalhead brothers and sisters, send your positive energy for our brother." Sheppard in 2006 missed a number of NEVERMORE shows after undergoing a minor procedure for Crohn's Disease, a condition he's managed for nearly 20 years. Filling in for Sheppard was longtime friend James MacDonough (ex-MEGADETH, ICED EARTH). "The Obsidian Conspiracy", the new album from NEVERMORE, sold around 4,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 134 on The Billboard 200 chart. The CD landed at position No. 1 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200. Greek/German heavy metallers MYSTIC PROPHECY are preparing to enter Prophecy Music Factory studios with singer/producer Roberto Dimitri Liapakis (MYSTIC PROPHECY, SUICIDAL ANGELS, VALLEY'S EVE, INSIDEAD) to begin recording their seventh album, "Raven Lord", for an October 28 release via Massacre Records. The CD will contain 11 tracks and will mark the recording debut of the band's new drummer, Claudio Sisto, who joined MYSTIC PROPHECY last June. The artwork will be created by Jonas Kawalek, who previously with the band on their fifth album, "Satanic Curses". Commented MYSTIC PROPHECY mainman Roberto Dimitri Liapakis: "MYSTIC PROPHECY is now more than ever in a turning point in their history. 'Fireangel' overcame our expectations and our fans have shown us their support in the best possible way. The tour we did with STRATOVARIUS gave the band the chance to get a very good sense of unity and groove which is generated by every member contributing to whole which finally is presented to the fans. This is what will make a difference in our upcoming album. The feeling of unity, amongst us, enhances the effect we bring out. More power, more feeling, more combined ideas, more diversity, but all in the thread that goes through it all which is MYSTIC PROPHECY. Two minds work better than one, so imagine all five of us contributing equally to the final result. I am confident that we'll do our best to express what's in our souls and hope the fans like it. Up 'till now we seem to have a common ground so this album will only enforce this bond with our fans and help us create new ones." "Fireangel", the sixth album from the MYSTIC PROPHECY, entered the German Media Control chart at position No. 77. Released on May 22, 2009 via Massacre Records, the follow-up to 2007's "Satanic Curses" was recorded at Prophecy Studios and was mixed in Sweden under the direction of Fredrik Nordström (DIMMU BORGIR, ARCH ENEMY, IN FLAMES) and R.D. Liapakis (FIREWIND, CHASTAIN, ELDRITCH). MYSTIC PROPHECY in 2008 announced the addition of DESCENDING/ex-NIGHTRAGE guitarist Constantine to the group's ranks.   11-18-10 British heavy metal legends IRON MAIDEN have confirmed the following European shows as part of "The Final Frontier World Tour 2011": May 28 - Frankfurt, Germany @ Festhalle May 29 - Oberhausen, Germany @ Kopi Arena May 31 - Munich, Germany @ Olympiahalle Jun. 02 - Hamburg, Germany @ O2 World Jun. 03 - Berlin, Germany @ O2 World Jun. 07 - Stuttgart, Germany @ Schleyerhalle Jun. 08 - Arnhem, The Netherlands @ Gerledome Jun. 27 - Paris, France @ Bercy The German, Dutch and French shows follow on from the band's recently announced "Around The World In 66 Days" tour in Ed Force One, and denote the start of the European — and final — leg of "The Final Frontier World Tour 2011", culminating with a series of arena dates around the U.K. which ends at the London O2 Arena in August. More shows around Europe are still to be announced. There will be an exclusive first ticket pre-sale for IRON MAIDEN fan-club members next week, before tickets go on sale to the general public on Friday, November 26 (The Netherlands) and Saturday, November 27 (Germany and France). IRON MAIDEN's latest album, "The Final Frontier" (EMI), sold 63,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to enter The Billboard 200 chart at position No. 4. IRON MAIDEN's previous album, 2006's "A Matter Of Life And Death", opened with 56,000 units to land at No. 9. This was a notable increase from the 40,000 first-week tally registered by its predecessor, 2003's "Dance of Death" (which debuted at No. 18 on The Billboard 200 chart), and that of "Brave New World", which moved 38,000 copies in June 2000 to land at No. 39 on The Billboard 200 chart. Swedish metallers EVERGREY will release their eighth studio album, "Glorious Collision", via Steamhammer/SPV on the following dates: Germany: February 25 Rest Of Europe: February 28 USA/Canada: February 22 Occasionally a musician has to take a step back into the past to develop artistically. Tom Englund, guitarist and vocalist with EVERGREY, took this risk and reorganized his artistic environment. "The most recent EVERGREY lineup had reached a point where we no longer had fun as a group," he confesses, adding: "So we went our separate ways to save our friendship. There were no angry words, and we're still friends privately." Naturally, the decision to break up wasn't easy for these long-standing friends, especially for Englund and his remaining keyboardist, Rikard Zander, for whom a continuation of EVERGREY was never called into question. Yet they both had to face a new challenge. In the beginning, we weren't sure whether we'd be able to write a new album without the wealth of experience that the previous lineup brought in," Englund says. "But after Rikard and I had composed a full three numbers during the first week, we felt that was a real coup." Listeners will feel this positive energy throughout "Glorious Collision", which is described as "a dynamic goody bag featuring the most diverse material ever released on an EVERGREY album." "This may sound like a contradiction in view of our personnel situation, but Rikard and I have allowed more influences on 'Glorious Collision' than ever before," Englund says. "Some elements on 'Glorious Collision' are classic rock, based on a metal format; sometimes the tracks are quiet and haunting, sometimes wild, demanding and gripping." This diversity is also expressed in the instrumentation of this extremely dynamic studio production which presents the new band members Marcus Jidell (guitar), Hannes Van Dahl (drums) and Johan Niemann (bass). "It's great to hear what a breath of fresh air Marcus, Johan and Hannes have brought into the band," Englund enthuses. "Although the entire material, except for two songs to which Marcus contributed on the compositional side, had already been decided when we started recording, they all left their own, very personal mark on this album." The great experience of Jidell and Niemann, who have worked with acts such as ROYAL HUNT and THERION, among others, and have now contributed lots of positive energy together with the 20-year-old drummer Van Dahl, can be felt throughout the album. "Glorious Collision" track listing: 01. Leave It Behind Us 02. You 03. Wrong 04. Frozen 05. Restoring The Loss 06. To Fit The Mold 07. Out Of Reach 08. The Phantom Letters 09. The Disease ... 10. It Comes From Within 11. Free 12. I'm Drowning Alone 13. ... And The Distance 14. ... And The Distance (Carina bonus track) Swiss melodic-folk-death-metallers ELUVEITIE will embark on a North American headlining tour in February 2011. Support on the trek will come from 3 INCHES OF BLOOD, HOLY GRAIL and SYSTEM DIVIDE. Commented ELUVEITIE vocalist and mastermind Christian "Chrigel" Glanzmann: "Since we joined AMON AMARTH to support them on their tour in the U.S. last April, we only got to play a shorter set there. So, after touring all over Europe and the U.K. for several months now, it's definitely high time we came back to America with an full setlist. We're really happy and looking forward to finally visiting the U.S. again to rock the living shit out of our fans! We plan on spoiling you with an extended set, an extended stage performance and some surprises! Also, we're proud to present you an absolute killer package, totally under the banner of pure fucking metal! We will return with no less than the Canadian berzerkers of 3 INCHES OF BLOOD, our Californian true metal buddies from HOLY GRAIL, along with SYSTEM DIVIDE, an amazingly talented young melodic death metal band! "Well, there's not much left to say — horns up for a pure fucking metal massacre! See you there!" The dates are as follows: Feb. 01 - Theatre of Living Arts – Philadelphia, PA Feb. 02 - The Gramercy Theater – New York, NY Feb. 03 - The Palladium – Worcester, MA Feb. 04 - Cercle – Quebec City, QC Feb. 05 - Le National – Montreal, QC Feb. 06 - The Opera House – Toronto, ON Feb. 08 - The Bottom Lounge – Chicago, IL Feb. 09 - Station 4 – Saint Paul, MN Feb. 10 - Granada Theater – Lawrence, KS Feb. 11 - Maquis Theater – Denver, CO Feb. 12 - Club Sound – Salt Lake City, UT Feb. 14 - El Corazon – Seattle, WA Feb. 15 - Rickshaw Theatre – Vancouver, BC Feb. 16 - Hawthorne Theatre – Portland, OR Feb. 17 - Slims – San Francisco, CA Feb. 18 - The Key Club – Hollywood, CA Feb. 19 - Nile Theater – Mesa, AZ Feb. 21 - Backstage Live – San Antonio, TX Feb. 22 - Warehouse Live – Houston, TX Feb. 24 - State Theatre – Saint Petersburg, FL Feb. 25 - Firestone Live – Orlando, FL Feb. 26 - The Masquerade – Atlanta, GA "Everything Remains (As It Never Was)", the latest album from ELUVEITIE, sold around 1,600 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 23 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200. San Francisco Bay Area metal veterans DEATH ANGEL have announced the second leg of their North American tour in support of the band's latest release, "Relentless Retribution". The new batch of shows will take place approximately two months after DEATH ANGEL's previously announced headlining run in January/February with LAZARUS A.D., EARLY MAN, BONDED BY BLOOD and HEXEN. Commented vocalist Mark Osegueda: "We are pleased to announce some additional dates to the North American 'Relentless Retribution' tour! We added some key West Coast cities that we hit on the SOILWORK tour and as promised, we are coming back to destroy them with our headlining set. Also included are certain territories of Canada that we haven't played on since the 'Act III' tour in 1990. "I said before that this is going to be the most extensive tour of this band's career and here is more proof! So come out and witness the energy that is DEATH ANGEL live! "[We] look forward to seeing some long lost friends and some brand new ones as well! See you on the road!" Newly announced DEATH ANGEL tour dates: Apr. 08- Last Day Saloon - Santa Rosa, CA Apr. 09- Dante's - Portland, OR Apr. 10- El Corazon - Seattle, WA Apr. 11- Biltmore - Vancouver, BC - Canada Apr. 12- Dickens - Calgary, AB - Canada Apr. 13- Pawn Shop - Edmonton, AB - Canada Apr. 14- The Exchange - Regina, SK - Canada Apr. 15- The Osbourne Village Inn - Winnipeg, MB - Canada Apr. 16- Station 4 - St. Paul, MN Apr. 18- Larimer Lounge - Denver, CO Apr. 19- Club Vegas - Salt Lake City, UT Apr. 22- Ventura Theater - Ventura, CA Apr. 23- Avalon Theater - Santa Clara, CA Good Fight Music is the new North American label home for the classic IN FLAMES catalog, starting with "The Jester Race" through "Soundtrack To Your Escape". These titles, which until now have been unavailable in the marketplace, will be back on music retailers' shelves and available at digital stores (iTunes) starting on Monday, November 22, 2010. This new venture will once again reunite the band with the team that released and marketed their biggest commercial success in the United States — "Come Clarity". It was Good Fight's current team at the helm of Ferret Music when "Come Clarity" was released in 2006. The album became a benchmark in their career and further cemented the band's lofty place in the ranks of heavy metal's elite. IN FLAMES has cemented is iconic status as one of the preeminent heavy metal bands throughout the world. They pioneered a signature sound that forged extreme metal with melody and powerful hooks. Their prolific writing and continual global touring has amassed countless fans and worldwide album sales of over 2.5 million. Starting Monday, November 22, just in time for the holiday rush, the North American metal community can once again lay claim to their all time favorite IN FLAMES albums: * The Jester Race * Whoracle * Colony * Clayman * Reroute to Remain * Soundtrack to Your Escape * Used and Abused….In Live We Trust (double disc DVD) Frontiers Records has set a January 21, 2011 European release date for MR. BIG's new studio album entitled "What If…". The North American release, also on Frontiers Records, will follow in February. "What If…" is MR. BIG's first "all-original" album since the reunion of the four original members, Eric Martin, Paul Gilbert, Billy Sheehan and Pat Torpey, back in early 2009. Sixteen years after the release of "Hey Man", the new recording is set to bring back MR. BIG on the height of the current hard rock scene. Guitarist Paul Gilbert said: "This is the first MR. BIG album I have been a part of, since fourteen years and it was done in a snap. It was fun and we had really a good time in making this one." Adds Billy Sheehan: "It's so great to be back with Paul, Eric and Pat, too. We wrote this record like we did in the old days for the first two records. Jamming together in the same room to write songs." Pat Torpey states: "Some of the recording process is different now from what we were used to in the old times. But I think this record really managed to capture the performances of the band, not of the individual musicians." Eric Martin concludes: "I like to compare this to the first album, when we just got to know each other in a rehearsal studio and cut it in eight or nine days. This is like chapter two. We had so many years, so many records and so many things behind us. Now this feels like a beautiful brand new chapter starting for all of us." "What If…" was produced by Kevin Shirley (AEROSMITH, RUSH, IRON MAIDEN) and the release will be followed by a world tour which will kick off in South America in March and will hit Europe in early summer. "What If…" will be released in a special edition CD + DVD in digipak, regular CD, vinyl and digital download and in a limited-edition luxury box including the CD, DVD, LP and exclusive memorabilia. The DVD will include the video clips of "Undertow" and "All the Way Up" plus a documentary "making-of" the album including interviews and exclusive behind-the-scenes features of the four members. The first single, "Undertow", will have an official promotional launch on November 27. Norwegian black metallers IMMORTAL will embark on a North American headlining tour in February with support from ABSU. The dates are as follows: Feb. 19 - New York, NY - Gramercy Theater Feb. 20 - Baltimore, MD - Sonar Feb. 21 - Pittsburgh, PA - Mr. Small's Theatre Feb. 22 - Chicago, IL - Bottom Lounge Feb. 24 - Denver, CO - Summit Theatre Feb. 26 - San Antonio, TX - Backstage Live The first official music video from IMMORTAL's comeback album, "All Shall Fall", can be viewed below. Shot in Norway by Vardefilm, the clip for the title track features the band`s full lineup (Abbath, Demonaz, Apollyon, Horgh) and is the first music video the band has shot in 15 years. "All Shall Fall" sold around 3,300 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 162 on The Billboard 200 chart. The CD landed at No. 7 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200. "All Shall Fall" entered the German chart at position No. 33 and Finnish chart at No. 20. In the band's home country, the CD landed at No. 23 in its opening week. "All Shall Fall" was released in North America on October 6, 2009 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD, which was issued in Europe on September 25, 2009, was recorded at Grieghallen and Abyss studios in Norway and Sweden, respectively. "The Seventh Date Of Blashyrkh", the band's first official live DVD and live CD release in the history of their existence, features songs that span IMMORTAL's timeless discography and includes three back-to-back-to-back selections from their most acclaimed release to date. The leather and spikes, the "war paint," the bursting pyrotechnics, the essential anthems, Abbath's on-stage acrobatics, and an audience that drew upwards of 70,000 people... the magic's all there, ready to be absorbed into your consciousness. Take a walk through the mystical Norwegian landscape and witness Abbath, Horgh and Apollyon as they return to the fabled and mythical kingdom of Blashyrkh, where they are destined to rule for all eternity. "The Seventh Date Of Blashyrkh" was released in Europe on August 6 and was made available in North America on September 14 via Nuclear Blast. SYMFONIA, the new melodic metal project featuring former members of HELLOWEEN, STRATOVARIUS, ANGRA and SONATA ARCTICA, will enter Studiomega in Varberg, Sweden later this month to begin recording its debut album for a spring 2011 release. A press release reads as follows: "They are all legends among the melodic metal community. By sheer coincidence, they all found themselves living on the same continent, in Scandinavia. They decided to join forces and express their talents in the form of a new melodic metal project: SYMFONIA. "Honoring the heritage of their previous bands STRATOVARIUS, HELLOWEEN, ANGRA and SONATA ARCTICA, SYMFONIA continues their superb melodic metal tradition with an incredible musicianship that is a match made in heaven. This is a force that no serious melodic metal fan will be able to ignore." SYMFONIA is: * Timo Tolkki (STRATOVARIUS, REVOLUTION RENAISSANCE) - Guitar * André Matos (ANGRA, SHAAMAN, VIPER) - Vocals * Jari Kainulainen (STRATOVARIUS, EVERGREY) - Bass * Mikko Härkin (SONATA ARCTICA, KOTIPELTO) - Keyboards * Uli Kusch (MASTERPLAN, HELLOWEEN) - Drums SYMFONIA will make its live debut on February 18, 2011 at the Finnish Metal Expo (part of the Helsinki Metal Meeting) in Helsinki, Finland. For more information, visit www.symfonia.fi. 8-7-10 Heaven's Venom, the new album from Canadian extreme metallers KATAKLYSM, is available for streaming in its entirety on the band's MySpace page. The CD will be released on August 13 in Europe and August 24 in North America via Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to 2008's Prevail was produced by KATAKLYSM guitarist Jean-Francois Dagenais (MALEVOLENT CREATION, MISERY INDEX) and was mixed by Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, MNEMIC, DARK TRANQUILLITY). Heaven's Venom track listing: 01. A Soulless God 02. Determined (Vows Of Vengeance) 03. Faith Made Of Shrapnel 04. Push The Venom 05. Hail The Renegade 06. As The Walls Collapse 07. Numb & Intoxicated 08. At The Edge Of The World 09. Suicide River 10. Blind Savior Dagenais previously stated about the new CD, "Everything you wish for in a KATAKLYSM album is here and some unexpected musical adventures as well. Everyone here has given 150% of themselves! "As KATAKLYSM turns twenty next year, we want to be remembered as the band who never gave up and faced the odds. This explosive slab of metal will lead scene for future conquests and not be forgotten ever. The music, the vocals and the production are all top notch." KATAKLYSM filmed a video for the song "Push The Venom" last month in Belgrade, Serbia with director Ivan Colic (TYPE O NEGATIVE, UNLEASHED, DEATHSTARS, EX DEO). California thrash metal veterans SLAYER will perform the song "Hate Worldwide" on the Tuesday, August 10 edition of NBC-TV's "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon". The show will air at 12:35 a.m. ET (technically early Wednesday morning, August 11). "Hate Worldwide" was nominated for a 2010 Grammy Award in the "Best Metal Performance" category. The award eventually went to British heavy metal legends JUDAS PRIEST, who were honored for the track "Dissident Aggressor", from the band's 2009 live album A Touch of Evil: Live. "Hate Worldwide" comes off SLAYER's latest album, World Painted Blood, which was recorded in Los Angeles over two time periods, during October 2008 and then between late January and March 2009. The CD was produced by Greg Fidelman, who's spent time in the studio with METALLICA, THE GOSSIP, THE (INTERNATIONAL) NOISE CONSPIRACY, SLIPKNOT and others, and executive-produced by longtime SLAYER colleague Rick Rubin, who suggested Fidelman for the project. The CD initially shipped with four special collector's edition covers. Each of the four covers displayed one-fourth of a provocative continental map illustrated with human skulls and bones; when placed together, the four images form a complete and grisly map of the world. All four of the initial album packages included a special blood-red, see-through top panel with the map displayed beneath it. "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon" is a late-night talk show that airs Monday through Friday on NBC. The program is hosted by Jimmy Fallon, a stand-up comedian and actor. German melodic metallers SYMPHORCE, who feature in their ranks guitarist Cédric "Cede" Dupont and singer Andy B. Franck (BRAINSTORM), have issued the following update: "The [new SYMPHORCE] album recordings have been finished, the whole thing is mixed and mastered and what can we say? It sounds FUCKING AWESOME! "There's no doubt that the small break we had turned out to be good for us, and we'll be back with the best SYMPHORCE record for sure. It's what we believe at least. "We will come up with some more news very soon; exact release date, album title, artwork, and so on. "We're absolutely excited, and so will you be when the album's out, we're pretty damn sure about that!" SYMPHORCE's new album will be released before the end of the year via AFM Records. SYMPHORCE's last CD, "Become Death", came out in February 2007 via Metal Blade Records. The CD was recorded at the House Of Music Studios in Winterbach (near Stuttgart), Germany with producer Dennis Ward (PINK CREAM 69). Mastering duties were handled by Achim Köhler (BRAINSTORM). Former Stratovarius leader/guitarist Timo Tolkki has released the following statement: "Due to my private problems, the lack of interest in Revolution Renaissance [Tolkki's post- Stratovarius band] shows by the promoters, and the current situation in the music industry that affects to everything including the production budgets, it has become impossible to continue the band. "We have tried to book shows in these last three years, but we haven't been able to do so. "A rock band cannot exist without direct contact to its fans. Therefore I have no other choice but to make the decision to stop the band and its activities due to the above-mentioned reasons. "The third and final album of the band will be released at the end of September. "From the bottom of my heart I would like to thank all the fans of my music throughout the years. It's been a great journey." Revolution Renaissance's third album, Trinity, will be released via Napalm Records. The CD, which was once again engineered by Santtu Lehtiniemi, follows a more "power metal" direction than its predecessor, last year's Age Of Aquarius, although it will not be a clone of Timo's previous efforts with Stratovarius. The vocals and the drums — which were handled by Revolution Renaissance's Brazilian contingent, consisting of Gus Monsanto and Bruno Agra, respectively — were recorded in Brazil. According to Tolkki, the new CD sounds "very organic and natural, but also very modern." Revolution Renaissance recently tapped Firewind's Bob Katsionis as its new keyboardist. The band's most recent lineup was as follows: Gus Monsanto - Vocals Timo Tolkki - Guitar Magnus Rosén - Bass Bruno Agra - Drums Bob Katsionis - Keyboards Revolution Renaissance in October 2009 parted ways with bassist Justin Biggs and keyboardist Michael Khalilov because it "became evident to everybody that Revolution Renaissance was not the right band for the guys," the group said in a statement. "Justin is more of a thrash guy and Mike expected the music to be something totally different. Out of these reasons the decision has been made that it is better to go separate ways." Recorded over three months in Finland, Revolution Renaissance's sophomore album, Age Of Aquarius, was released in March 2009 via Scarlet Records. It was described in a press release as "by far the darkest, heaviest and most symphonic album that Tolkki has ever been involved in." German power metallers Helloween have set 7 Sinners as the title of their new album, tentatively due in late October. The CD was recorded at singer Andi Deris' Mi Sueno Studios in Tenerife, Spain. The band wrote more than 20 songs and selected the best ideas with longtime producer Charlie Bauerfeind. Helloween bass player Markus Grosskopf previously stated about the band's new material: "For all those out there who found our special best-of [CD] 'Unarmed' to be too smooth and calm, I have a great news: The new album will hit you right in the face! It's gonna be very heavy and contain all Helloween trademarks! Some songs are very powerful and hymnic, others contain the fastest bass-drum patterns our drummer Dani [Löble] ever played, and this means a lot!" Helloween will team up with Finnish melodic metallers Stratovarius for a European tour, dubbed "The 7 Sinners World Tour 2010/11 - European Part I", in November/December. Commented Deris: "We had a great package with Gamma Ray last time, and we are very proud to have Stratovarius with us this time. "We look forward to have another power metal party with our fans all over the planet — see you soon!" Iced Earth has been confirmed for the 70000 Tons Of Metal cruise, which is set to sail from Miami, Florida to Cozumel, Mexico on January 24, 2011 and return four days later. A total of 40 acts will appear at the event. The festival billing is shaping up as follows: AGENT STEEL AMON AMARTH DEATH ANGEL EPICA EXODUS FEAR FACTORY FINNTROLL FORBIDDEN ICED EARTH MOONSPELL OBITUARY RAVEN SAXON SODOM SONATA ARCTICA STRATOVARIUS SWASHBUCKLE TESTAMENT TROUBLE ULI JON ROTH WITCHBURNER Saxon will play two unique shows. One night they will perform the Wheels Of Steel LP in its entirety and on a different night, for the second show, they will play Strong Arm Of The Law from start to finish. 70000 Tons Of Metal will sail Monday, January 24, 2011 aboard the Royal Caribbean "Majesty of the Seas" from Miami, Florida to Cozumel, Mexico and will not return you to the real world for four days until Friday, January 28, 2011. Make no mistake, 70000 Tons Of Metal is not your grandma's cruise. It's also not one of the cruises that share the ship with normal cruise guests. This is an all-ship heavy metal cruise! Can you imagine that? A whole luxury cruise ship full of metalheads? And since there is no backstage area you will have the opportunity to mingle side-by-side with the artists in this incredibly fan-friendly scenario that has no comparison. It's like everyone has a backstage pass and you might even need a vacation from this vacation when all is said and done! Ticket prices start at US$666 plus US$249 taxes and fees per person and include all on-board entertainment, all meals and non-alcoholic and non-carbonated drinks at the on-board restaurants and 24-hour room service! For more information, go to www.70000tons.com.   7-17-10 Back On Black — the company which specializes in vinyl reissues of classic metal albums and is dedicated to providing top-quality releases for record collectors and metal fans worldwide — will release the classic debut album from DIO, Holy Diver, on 180-gram limited-edition gatefold red vinyl on July 30. Originally issued on May 25, 1983, Holy Diver has been hailed by critics as DIO's best work and a classic staple in the heavy metal genre. The LP was certified gold in the U.S. on September 12, 1984 and platinum on March 21, 1989. Holy Diver re-entered The Billboard 200 chart in late May — shortly after the band's frontman, Ronnie James Dio, died of stomach cancer — at No. 149 and bowed at No. 11 on Pop Catalog (4,000; up 322%). Swedish Viking metallers AMON AMARTH have issued the following update: "We have come to an end. After almost two years of touring we have now reached the twilight of the thunder god. "Ruisrock in Turku, Finland officially marked the very last show in support for our latest album. We're still doing a few selected 'off' shows, though. "We'll be making our very first appearance in Japan at Loud Park festival in October. And early next year we'll be performing on the high seas at 70000 Tons Of Metal. "We've had an amazing time on the road supporting this album. Got to tour with many great bands and met loads of awesome people. "There have been highs and lows. Highlights include our first tour in South America, performing in Beijing, Taiwan and India, and fulfilled a long time dream by sharing the stage with the almighty SLAYER. "We want to thank our loyal friends and fans for the support. Thanks to our crew who has been putting up with us for so long. Thanks to our management and label for covering our backs and everyone else who have been involved in some way, big or small, in bringing us to the far reaches of the world. "We've taken the first steps towards the new album but there is much to do. "We'll try to keep you updated on the things going on in the AMON camp as we lock ourselves away to write this new album. Stay tuned." Frontiers Records has announced the signing of U.S. metallers BENEDICTUM for the release of a brand new studio album in early 2011. The band is currently recording the effort with with producer Ryan Greene (MEGADETH, LITA FORD, NOFX) at his Area 52 studio in Scottsdale, Arizona. The CD will feature guest appearances by Rudy Sarzo (DIO, QUIET RIOT, OZZY OSBOURNE) and Craig Goldy (DIO, BUDGIE). BENEDICTUM singer Veronica Freeman also worked with renowned producer and bassist Jeff Pilson (DOKKEN, DIO, FOREIGNER) to produce some acoustic bonus tracks for the album. Freeman is joined once again by lead guitarist Pete Wells, bassist Chris Shrum, keyboardist Tony Diaz and drummer Mikey Pannone. "There is really a feeling of excitement in the air for us," states Veronica. "The new material will be another level in our evolution as a band and we have a lot of confidence in our new label Frontiers Records and their willingness to stand with us on our journey!" BENEDICTUM has released two critically acclaimed albums so far (2006's Uncreation and 2008's Seasons of Tragedy), both helmed by Pilson. Commented Jeff: "My affinity for BENEDICTUM was instant. Upon hearing Veronica's voice and Pete Wells' guitar, I knew the seeds were there for a classic monumental rock band." The release of the band's new album will coincide with BENEDICTUM's appearance at the Hard Rock Hell IV festival in Prestatyn, U.K. this December alongside AIRBOURNE, UFO, MSG and URIAH HEEP, among others. The band is also hoping to announce a series of U.K. dates around the event. Brazilian metallers ANGRA will release their seventh studio album, Aqua (a Latin word which means "water" in English), on September 29 via SPV/Steamhammer. A conceptual effort, the follow-up to 2006's Aurora Consurgens was recorded at Norcal Studios in São Paulo , Brazil. For the first time since its inception, the band self-produced the new CD, which was co-produced and mixed by Brendan Duffey and Adriano Daga from Norcal Studios, and mastered by Maor Appelbaum at Maor Appelbaum Mastering Studios in California . The art concept (see below) was created by the renowned Brazilian artist Gustavo Sazes, with input from Rafael Bittencourt and Kiko Loureiro. "We [had] worked with Isabel de Amorim since the 'Fireworks' album, so we wanted to change the artistic style in this new CD and the work made by Gustavo Sazes was exactly what we were looking for," said guitarist Kiko Loureiro. "Actually, he is already our website designer and it was a natural choice." Aqua track listing: 01. Viderunt Te Aquæ 02. Arising Thunder 03. Awake From Darkness 04. Lease Of Life 05. The Rage Of The Waters 06. Spirit Of The Air 07. Hollow 08. A Monster In Her Eyes 09. Weakness Of A Man 10. Ashes According to a press release, "the concept and the musical atmospheres of this new record, as well as the main classics of ANGRA discography are based on a rich and involving history. The whole composition of the album was directly inspired by 'The Tempest' — the last play written by William Shakespeare and shown here through an epic vision compared to its dark side. "We really dedicated ourselves to the last work of Shakespeare to create 'Aqua'," states guitarist Rafael Bittencourt. "Besides all the qualities of the text, we found out that the element 'water' is one of the main characters of the history. It transforms itself during the cycles and changes the things around. It represents the rage of high tides and tempests, and then the forgiveness and wisdom in calm. Everything happens after a violent storm that occurs in the sea, in an island hill. While the wild waters come from up and down, a ship and the entire crew are fighting for surviving. As from this point, we developed one very interesting narrative that will get the attention of the listeners." Aqua will be issued in Japan on July 31 by JVC/Victor. In Brazil it will be self-released by the band and made available on August 17. "We need to have a support for the international market and the SPV and JVC have always been done an excellent work related to the promotion of our last records," said vocalist Edu Falaschi. "But in Brazil we will make it different this time. It will be self-financed so that we can control everything referred to the CD." ANGRA's current lineup includes drummer Ricardo Confessori (SHAMAN), who returned to ANGRA following the departure of Aquiles Priester (HANGAR). The band took part in a massive Brazilian tour with SEPULTURA in May 2009. Vocalist Snowy Shaw has quit Swedish progressive/experimental metallers THERION after four years, two studio albums, live DVDs and numerous tours around the world. "I've had a terrific and great time touring and working with THERION and I do wish them nothing but the best in the future, but I've felt for some time that it's time for me to move on," Snowy told BLABBERMOUTH.NET. "I also wanna take the opportunity to show my gratitude and thank all the loyal fans for their support, love and understanding." Shaw — who has previously toured and/or recorded with DREAM EVIL, KING DIAMOND, MERCYFUL FATE, MEMENTO MORI and NOTRE DAME, among other acts — was forced to sit out this weekend's show with THERION at the Rockharz festival in Germany due to sickness. This would have been Snowy's last appearance with the band. Snowy has written and co-written songs for the forthcoming THERION album, Sitra Ahra, which is scheduled for release in September through Nuclear Blast Records. Shaw's departure from THERION will not affect the group's upcoming live appearances, as singer Thomas Vikström will handle Snowy's parts at the Rockharz festival and on the upcoming tours in South/Central America, Mexico and Europe. As a graphic designer and artist, Snowy was hired to oversee the visual aspects and help improve THERION's stage act and performance for the Gothic Kabbalah world tour 2007 and the band's 20th-anniversary tour. ARCH ENEMY guitarist Christopher Amott has just released his first "proper" solo album, entitled "Follow Your Heart", in Japan. "It's not metal," Amott told AOL's Noisecreep. "It's more of a rock 'n' roll effort. It's pretty psychedelic. It's '70s-style and it's me singing. I think it's very intricate and diverse. It's also bluesy and funky." According to Amott, Follow Your Heart features artwork (see below) that was designed and painted by the guitarist himself. "I started doing it [painting] seriously in recent years," he said about his foray into a finer art. He doesn't take classes but admits that he does practice the art of painting when he can. "I did draw as a kid, but the I started playing guitar and that took over," he said. Amott continued, "I am going to keep painting and drawing. It will be big part of my life after ARCH ENEMY." In 2008, Amott began to consider his creative options as a mature musician. He began writing songs of an entirely different atmosphere, which saw his guitar playing focused less on technical ecstasy and more on a chord-based blues rock ambience as a foundation for more prominent vocal and lyrical ideas. These compositions developed into his next solo project; the album would be called "Follow Your Heart", released under his own name in 2010. The 20th-anniversary edition of QUEENSRŸCHE's most commercially successful album to date, "Empire", will be released in North America on September 14 via EMI Music. In addition to the original CD remastered with bonus tracks from the 2003 reissue, "Empire - 20th Anniversary Edition" will include a bonus disc of a live concert from 1990. The track listing is as follows: Disc 1 (original CD remastered with bonus tracks from 2003 reissue) 01. Best I Can 02. The Thin Line 03. Jet City Woman 04. Della Brown 05. Another Rainy Night (Without You) 06. Empire 07. Resistance 08. Silent Lucidity 09. Hand On Heart 10. One And Only 11. Anybody Listening? 12. Last Time In Paris 13. Scarborough Fair 14. Dirty Lil Secret Disc 2 (live at the Hammersmith Odeon, London 11-15-90) 01. Resistance 02. Walk In The Shadows 03. Best I Can 04. The Thin Line 05. Jet City Woman 06. Empire 07. Roads To Madness 08. Take Hold Of The Flame 09. Silent Lucidity 10. Hand On Heart The fourth full-length album by QUEENSRŸCHE, Empire was released on August 21, 1990. The power ballad "Silent Lucidity" was a cross-over hit, reaching #1 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks and #9 on the Billboard Hot 100, which helped the album reach triple-platinum status. The songs "Jet City Woman", "Della Brown", and "Another Rainy Night (Without You)" create a miniature concept album within the first half of "Empire", as they are linked by audio effects that bring the listener from one audio background to another seamlessly. "Empire" could arguably be included within this series, as the song begins with voices on an answering machine (as are also used in "Another Rainy Night"), though its subject is more of a stretch to relate. Alfred Music Publishing, the leader in educational music publishing since 1922 and the exclusive print publisher of thousands of popular artists, has expanded its distributed collection of "Behind the Player" DVDs from IMV, featuring exclusive interviews and authentic song lessons from the best of today's heavy rock guitarists. In Behind the Player: Dimmu Borgir, guitarists Galder and Silenoz bring you an intimate behind-the-scenes look at their lives as professional musicians, including rare photos and video footage. They also provide in-depth guitar lessons on how to play DIMMU BORGIR's "The Serpentine Offering" and "The Chosen Legacy". The VideoTab system shows exactly how Galder and Silenoz play their parts in the songs. "Behind the Player" DVDs by IMV are now available for $14.95 each. Pick up your copies at a local music retail store, or buy them today at alfred.com/imv. Alfred Music Publishing is the world's largest educational music publisher. Alfred produces educational, reference, pop and performance materials for teachers, students, professionals and hobbyists spanning every musical instrument, style and difficulty level. Alfred's home office is located in Los Angeles with domestic offices in Miami and New York as well as offices around the world including Australia, Germany, Singapore and the United Kingdom. Since 1922, Alfred Music Publishing has been dedicated to helping people learn, teach and play music. Alfred currently has over 90,000 active titles.       3-19-10 Tattoos & Tequila, the new solo album from MÖTLEY CRÜE singer Vince Neil, will be released on June 22 via Eleven Seven Music. The CD was recorded with bassist Dana Strum and Jeff Blando (both of SLAUGHTER) and drummer Zoltan Chaney. At least two cover tracks were reportedly laid down during the sessions — CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIVAL's "Who'll Stop The Rain?" and SEX PISTOLS' "No Feelings". The Tattoos & Tequila title track, which was was written and produced by Marti Frederiksen (AEROSMITH, DEF LEPPARD, OZZY OSBOURNE), and the accompanying video are available for free download at www.vinceneil.net. Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage is the title of the long-awaited RUSH documentary produced by Scot McFadyen and Sam Dunn of Toronto, Ontario, Canada's Banger Films Inc. which will receive a red-carpet premier at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York City on Saturday, April 24. All three members of RUSH — singer/bassist Geddy Lee, guitarist Alex Lifeson and drummer Neil Peart — will be on hand for the event. For more information, go to this location. Dunn and McFadyen were interviewed last year by Classic Rock magazine's Jerry Ewing about the first-ever feature film documentary on Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart. "Geddy had been in [Dunn and McFadyen's previous documentary] 'Metal: A Headbanger's Journey' and we were thinking about other bands we could work with," explained McFadyen. "We felt that RUSH had always been overlooked by the critics so we met them on tour and they liked what we said. We started working on it, then IRON MAIDEN came about so we took a break to do that and raised the financing for the RUSH film. We've started on it now and done a load of interviews so now we're editing with a load of archival footage." "We've been lucky. Not only have we had access to [RUSH management] SRO's archives but also Geddy, Alex and Neil's own personal archives," enthuses director Dunn. "I was just at Geddy's house this week. Going through his personal collection of memorabilia. I dug up some gems I don't think RUSH fans have ever seen so we're hoping to offer something new." As RUSH fans themselves, Dunn admitted this made him feel like a kid let loose in a candy store. "Well, Geddy's definitely the premier band archivist," Dunn said. "He has a massive collection of photographs and clippings. We even got our hands on Neil's handwritten lyric sheets from back when they were making 'Fly By Night', '2112' and 'A Farewell To Kings', and I don't think they've ever been seen before." IRON MAIDEN singer Bruce Dickinson's Friday-night "Rock Show", which airs on digital radio station BBC 6 Music, will go off the air as part of BBC's overhaul of its digital services. Dickinson has presented a show for 6 Music since its launch in 2002. The show goes out on Fridays from 9 p.m. to midnight on Friday nights and aims to takes the listener on "a guitartastic journey." It will reportedly finish at the end of April. A 6 Music spokeswoman says, "6 Music is currently reviewing the way it reflects the rock/heavy metal genres across the network and has decided to decommission the 'Friday Night Rock Show'. The network, however, remains committed to reflecting both genres throughout the schedule as part of its core music offering. We would very much like to thank Bruce Dickinson for the hard work and commitment he has shown to 6 Music over the past eight years." Bruce's Friday-night "Rock Show" features the IRON MAIDEN singer introducing the best metal and hard tunes to hit the airwaves, and providing a worthy successor to the "Tommy Vance Rock Show". Bruce has interviewed the biggest names in the rock world today, including Lemmy from MOTÖRHEAD, all four members of METALLICA and former IRON MAIDEN singer Blaze Bayley. Christian hard rockers STRYPER have added KISS' "Shout It Out Loud" to the list of songs they are recording for their upcoming album of covers, to be released later in the year. The CD will include STRYPER's renditions of the following classics: * JUDAS PRIEST - "Breaking The Law" * IRON MAIDEN - "The Trooper" * SCORPIONS - "Blackout" * OZZY OSBOURNE - "Over The Mountain" * SWEET - "Set Me Free" * VAN HALEN - "On Fire" * DEEP PURPLE - "Highway Star" * BLACK SABBATH - "Heaven And Hell" * UFO - "Lights Out" * KANSAS - "Carry On Wayward Son" * KISS - "Shout It Out Loud" STRYPER guitarist/vocalist Michael Sweet recently explaiend the band's decision to pay tribute to its influences on the new album: "We grew up listening to many different styles of music and there is a list of bands that influenced us throughout our musical education. Bands like JUDAS PRIEST, IRON MAIDEN, SCORPIONS, VAN HALEN, UFO, DEEP PURPLE, LED ZEPPELIN, QUEEN, KANSAS and many others, helped to shape our sound and make us who we are today, musically speaking. "We grew up on the streets of L.A. playing every club in town from Gazzari's to The Whisky to The Troubadour to you name it. We played covers from all the bands mentioned above and we shaped our own sound from listening and performing songs from these classic bands. "We wanted to step outside the box and record a record that shows you, the fans, where we come from — our historical, musical roots so to speak. It's a side to STRYPER that no one has really seen or heard before, or at least quite like this. "We performed 'On Fire' by VAN HALEN on a few tours and we also performed 'Breaking The Law' by PRIEST on this last tour. The response was far beyond our expectations each time we performed these songs. People seemed genuinely surprised to hear STRYPER cover these songs and even more surprised to hear STRYPER perform these songs relatively well. "This will be an opportunity for Robert [Sweet, drums], Oz [Fox, guitar], Tim [Gaines, bass] and myself to loosen up and have some fun. "For those of you who may think that we're walking away from our faith — you're wrong. We've never been more serious about our faith at any point in our lives. It is, however, important to enjoy what you do and lighten up from time to time. That's what we plan to do. "This will be a fun record to make and we hope that this comes through, as well as the chance to showcase the abilities that we've been blessed with." HALFORD guitarists "Metal" Mike Chlasciak and Roy Z. will each separately join German power metallers PRIMAL FEAR on stage for a "jam" on May 20 at the Blender Theatre in New York City and June 8 at the House of Blues in West Hollywood, California, respectively. As previously reported, singer Pamela Moore — who is best known for her performance as Sister Mary on QUEENSRŸCHE's 1988 epic release "Operation: Mindcrime" and 2006's sequel "Operation: Mindcrime II" — will perform with PRIMAL FEAR as a special guest at all shows on their "The Fear Is Here" North American tour. Pamela will also host special meet-and-greet/soundcheck parties at select venues. For a list of dates, visit PRIMAL FEAR's MySpace page. PRIMAL FEAR is currently putting together a new DVD, "16.6 – All Over The World", to be released in June via Frontiers Records. The bulk of the set will be composed of footage from the 2009 concerts in Switzerland and Atlanta, Georgia, with additional material from Japan, Colombia, Brazil, Germany and Sweden. The band says, "[We] still [have] a long way to go [before completing the DVD], but it will be a killer package, including the first official live CD of PRIMAL FEAR, 'Live In The USA', recorded in Los Angeles, Atlanta and New York." The group adds, "Achim Köhler is already working on the mix of the audio stuff." A European tour in support of the new DVD and live DVD will take place in the fall. 16.6 (Before The Devil Knows You're Dead), the latest album from PRIMAL FEAR, was released in Europe on May 22, 2009 and was made available in the U.S. in early June 2009 via Frontiers Records. 16.6 (Before The Devil Knows You're Dead) was recorded at House Of Music studios in Winterbach, Germany with Dennis Ward and Achim Köhler. The CD marks the group's first release with Magnus Karlsson (ALLEN/LANDE, STARBREAKER), who replaced Stefan Leibing last year. Returning guitarist Henny Wolter and Karlsson participated in the songwriting and pre-production, which took place at Karlsson's Stuntguitar Studio in Sweden. The band spent four weeks at House Of Music recording the effort, which was mastered by Ted Jensen at the Sterling Sound in New York City. JON OLIVA'S PAIN's fourth album, "Festival", will be released in North America on April 12. The CD, which was issued in Europe on February 19 via AFM Records, entered the German Media Control chart at position No. 87. JON OLIVA'S PAIN has begun to announce its headlining fall tour to support the new release. Highlighting the trek will be the live-DVD concert filming at the 013 in Tilburg, Holland on October 15. Tentatively due in early 2011, the disc will be the first official live DVD release with Oliva handling all the vocal duties. It promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime show featuring an assault of SAVATAGE classics and the four JON OLIVA'S PAIN CDs. Limited VIP ticket packages for the live DVD show will be offered in the next few weeks. "Festival" track listing: 01. Lies 02. Death Rides A Black Horse 03. Festival 04. Afterglow 05. Living On The Edge 06. Looking For Nothing 07. The Evil Within 08. Winter Haven 09. I Fear You 10. Now   2-17-10 Atlanta, Georgia-based heavy rock act SEVENDUST will release its new album, "Cold Day Memory", on April 20 via the band's own 7Bros. Records through Warner Music Group's Independent Label Group. The CD was recorded at Groovemaster Studios in Chicago, Illinois with producer Johnny K (DISTURBED, STAIND, MACHINE HEAD). "Cold Day Memory" marks SEVENDUST's first studio recording with the band's original lineup since 2003's "Seasons". Guitarist Clint Lowery, who rejoined SEVENDUST in March 2008, commented, "This record personally has been one of the most difficult, but most rewarding records I've ever worked on. I put a lot of pressure on myself to contribute good material to the guys after being gone for last three records and that helped me focus more than I ever had." Added vocalist Lajon Witherspoon, "I feel this album shows new growth for the band. We're very happy to have Clint back and are looking forward for everyone hearing the magic that's made when we're all together!" "Cold Day Memory" track listing: 01. Splinter 02. Forever Dead 03. Unraveling 04. Last Breath 05. Karma 06. Ride Insane 07. Confessions (Without Faith) 08. Nowhere 09. Here And Now 10. The End Is Coming 11. Better Place 12. Strong Arm Broken SEVENDUST's new single, "Unraveling", is getting a great reaction at rock radio. With back-to-back double-digit add weeks at Active Rock before its actual add date (next week), this is the most well-received SEVENDUST track in the last decade. "Unraveling" will be released via iTunes on March 2 and is available to stream on the SEVENDUST MySpace page. FEAR FACTORY and BLEEDING THROUGH will headline the California Metalfest IV, set to take place May 15-16 at The Fox Theatre and The Glasshouse in Pomona, California. The festival billing is shaping up as follows: Saturday, May 15: FEAR FACTORY JOB FOR A COWBOY WHITECHAPEL DYING FETUS ARSIS DECREPIT BIRTH CATTLE DECAPITATION MISERY INDEX ANNOTATIONS OF AN AUTOPSY GAZA Sunday, May 16: BLEEDING THROUGH THE FACELESS BORN OF OSIRIS SLEEPING GIANT EARTH CRISIS OCEANO AGATG THICK AS BLOOD ENFOLD DARKNESS UPON A BURNING BODY Tickets are expected to go on sale next week, along with many more national acts to be announced for both days in the coming weeks. For more information, visit www.myspace.com/californiametalfest THE ORDER OF APOLLYON, the new black/death metal project featuring current/former members of ABORTED, AKERCOCKE and CRADLE OF FILTH, has inked a three-album deal with Listenable Records. The band's debut album, "The Flesh", is scheduled for release in April. THE ORDER OF APOLLYON is: BST (ABORTED, AOSOTH) - Guitar, Vocals Daniel Wilding (ABORTED) - Drums James McIlroy (CRADLE OF FILTH, CHAOSANCT, MATRON) - Guitar Peter Benjamin (AKERCOCKE) - Bass The band will perform at various summer festivals. The band will perform at various summer festivals. For more information, visit THE ORDER OF APOLLYON's MySpace page. Danish hard rock veterans PRETTY MAIDS have entered the studio to begin recording their new album, tentatively titled Pandemonium, for a late spring/early summer release via Frontiers Records. The first in a series of video clips featuring footage from the recording studio can be viewed below. PRETTY MAIDS' "comeback" album, entitled "Wake Up To The Real World", was released in November 2006 via Frontiers Records. Singer Ronnie Atkins stated about the CD, "The new record has all the trademarks a good PRETTY MAIDS album should have, and that's the overall combination of good melodies and strong guitar riffs. But the key word, as far as I'm concerned, is it's gotta be melodic: whether it's the heavier and faster tracks or the more ballad/AOR-oriented kind of stuff; in other words 'good songs', and I think the album has got that!" PRETTY MAIDS is a legendary hard rock/heavy metal combo from Denmark founded in early 1982 by Atkins and guitarist Ken Hammer. After 10 studio albums, two EPs, one "best of" collection and two live albums, the band in 2002 celebrated its 20th anniversary with the release of the album "Planet Panic", followed by a successful European tour. But at the end of the same year they decided to take a long break from recording and touring. Welsh metallers BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE have set "Fever" as the title of their third album, due in the U.S. on April 27 (one day earlier internationally) via Jive/Zomba. A brand new track from the CD entitled "Begging For Mercy" is available for free download at this location. BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE's new single, "Your Betrayal", is scheduled to go for radio adds on March 8. "I'm not ashamed to say it: I'm proud as fuck," singer/guitarist Matt Tuck told U.K.'s Rock Sound about the new CD. "Every time I hear it I get pumped up and want to play it to people." "I'm sure it can take us into new places because it's such a huge progression." According to Tuck, the follow-up to 2008's "Scream Aim Fire" will contain 11 tracks and will contain fewer all-out thrash moments than its predecessors, but no ballads whatsoever. "We've tried to not deliberately do something specific, but we've analyzed what did and didn't work on the last two albums and tried to make the best album we can," he said. "People will put us in multiple scenes or trends, but that's why I think we don't belong in one," continued Tuck. "We can adapt our sound… we're a hard rock band with metal influences, and I've said that from Day One." BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE's new album was helmed by American producer Don Gilmore, who has previously worked with LINKIN PARK, DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL, GOOD CHARLOTTE and LACUNA COIL, among others. "He totally beat me up to get the best songwriting out of me," Tuck told Rock Sound. "We needed someone to take us to another level even though we've had such huge success off our own backs." "We feel confident to go it alone, but working with someone different is always a gamble. For the first four months, if felt like we'd fucked up, like we should have done everything on our own, but as time progressed, we could see what Don was doing and why he was doing it. "We'll always be trying to show people what we're capable of." Former SEPULTURA members Max (guitar, vocals) and Igor Cavalera (drums) will return to the studio in April 2010 to begin recording the follow-up to CAVALERA CONSPIRACY's 2008 debut album, "Inflikted". A late 2010 release via Roadrunner Records is expected. Igor Cavalera told AOL's Noisecreep late last year that CAVALERA CONSPIRACY hopes to release another album by this summer once he and his brother find time to work on some new material. "Max is so busy with SOULFLY, and MIXHELL [Igor's electronic duo, also featuring his wife — Ed.] is taking up most of me and [my wife] Laima's time, so when we find some free time we do CAVALERA," Igor said. "I think that's why I really enjoy doing it. There's no pressure of being in a band and sitting around waiting for gigs. When we get the offers we sit together and decide if we want to do them or not do them, so it's really cool. "We have some ideas of maybe doing a remix album of [CAVALERA CONSPIRACY's debut CD, 'Inflikted'] and have people like JUSTICE or SOULWAX — even some dub artists that my brother likes — remix the whole album," he added. "But that's just an idea. It's nothing confirmed. But me and Max are talking about doing a new album in the future, but there's no pressure. There's nobody from the label or the agents trying to push us to do it as quick as possible." "Inflikted" has sold 42,000 copies in the United States since its March 2008 release, according to Nielsen SoundScan. Johny Chow (a.k.a. John Mark Bechtel; FIREBALL MINISTRY, SOULS OF WE, ex-SYSTEMATIC, MY RUIN) was recruited by CAVALERA CONSPIRACY to play bass for the group as the replacement for Joe Duplantier of the French progressive death metallers GOJIRA. Duplantier, who laid down all the bass tracks on "Inflikted", was busy in the studio working on the new GOJIRA CD and was unable to join CAVALERA CONSPIRACY on the road. ARCH ENEMY guitarist Christopher Amott has told AOL's Noisecreep that he is planning to release his first "proper" solo album, entitled "Follow Your Heart". "It's not metal," Amott said. "It's more of a rock 'n' roll effort. It's pretty psychedelic. It's '70s-style and it's me singing. I think it's very intricate and diverse. It's also bluesy and funky." According to Amott, "Follow Your Heart" will feature artwork that was designed and painted by the guitarist himself. "I started doing it [painting] seriously in recent years." Amott continued, "I am going to keep painting and drawing. It will be big part of my life after ARCH ENEMY." The second ("Embrace The Mystery") and third ("Three") albums from Christopher Amott's ARMAGEDDON project recently received a proper and domestic release outside of Japan, where they originally came out back in the years 2000 and 2002, respectively. "Embrace The Mystery & Three" was released as a two-CD set with upgraded artwork, several bonus tracks and liner notes on November 16, 2009 in Europe and on January 26, 2010 in North America via Century Media Records. Guitarist Brian Koenig of the Madison, Wisconsin-based, female-fronted five-piece LUNA MORTIS (formerly known as THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE) has released the following statement: "I regret to say that as of today the band will be dissolving and we will be going our separate ways. "A huge thanks from the bottom of our hearts for the fans and support we have received over the course of the last nine years. It has been an exciting and often turbulent ride, but everything must come to an end eventually. "Unfortunately, we will be unable to go on the May tour with PRIMAL FEAR, so our apologies to the people who were looking forward to hanging with us out on the road. "To our local fans, we will more than likely be playing one more Madison show sometime in the next few months; we'll keep everyone posted." Last year LUNA MORTIS was dropped by Century Media Records, the label that released the band's debut album, "The Absence". The CD, which came out in in February 2009, was tracked at Audiohammer Studios in Sanford, Florida with producer Jason Suecof (ALL THAT REMAINS, TRIVIUM). Swedish Viking metallers AMON AMARTH will embark on a North American headlining tour in April. Support on the trek will come from ELUVEITIE and HOLY GRAIL. The dates are as follows: April 08 - Los Angeles, CA - House Of Blues April 09 - San Francisco, CA - The Regency Ballroom (w/ FEAR FACTORY) April 10 - Portland, OR - Hawthorne Theater April 11 - Seattle, WA - Showbox April 12 - Vancouver, BC - Rickshaw April 14 - Calgary, AB - MacEwan Hall April 15 - Edmonton, AB - EEC April 16 - Saskatoon, SK - The Odeon April 17 - Winnipeg, MB - The Garrick April 18 - Minneapolis, MD - Station 4 April 19 - Chicago, IL - Logan Square April 21 - Toronto, ON - Opera House April 22 - Montreal, QC - Metropolis April 23 - Quebec City, QC - Imperial Theatre April 24 - Worcester, MA - New England Metal Fest April 25 - New York, NY - Fillmore at Irving Plaza 2-12-10 MASTERPLAN, the melodic power metal band led by former HELLOWEEN guitarist Roland Grapow, has set "Time To Be King" as the title of its new album, due on April 16. A single will precede the full-length CD in March. MASTERPLAN vocalist Jorn Lande told Germany's Rock Hard magazine last year about his renewed collaboration with MASTERPLAN, "We never had problems with each other, but professionally, we decided to go separate ways for a while. . . I am happy that we are . . . working together again — mainly because the combination of MASTERPLAN's music and my singing [is] truly something special." Lande left MASTERPLAN in May 2006, citing "musical differences" between the vocalist and the rest of the band. During the songwriting process for the group's third album, it became increasingly apparent that the other members of the band had different visions and plans for the group's musical direction. While Jorn allegedly wanted MASTERPLAN to follow a more melodic path, the rest of the band apparently wanted to return to the metallic roots of their debut album. Vocalist Mike DiMeo (RIOT, THE LIZARDS) announced his departure from MASTERPLAN in January 2009 after recording just one studio album with the group — 2007's "MK II". Lande's latest solo album, "Spirit Black", was released in June 2009 via Frontiers Records. The follow-up to 2008's "Lonely Are The Brave" CD — which entered the national chart in Norway at No. 28 and Sweden at No. 42 — was described by Jorn as "a solid and defined album that will shake the classic metal world and hammer the future Jorn legacy in stone!" Jorn Lande cut his teeth with such internationally renowned acts as ARK, MILLENIUM, VAGABOND and THE SNAKES. CRYSTAVOX, one of Christian metal's loudest bands, and Roxx Productions have revealed the full details and new cover art for the group's brand new limited-edition release, "The Twenty Year Mix". Due on May 25, the two-disc set will consist of both a full-length CD and a very special DVD release. First up, disc one will be a completely remastered "Best Of" CD consisting of many of your favorite CRYSTAVOX tracks, including "Sacrifice", "Home Again", "Power Games", "It's All Right", "Shame", "Big Picture", "Snakes", "Paradise", "No Boundaries", "Guns", "Break Down The Walls" and "Cry Out". All these tracks were taken straight from the master tapes that had been sitting in storage in the Ocean Records archives for close to twenty years. These tracks have been completely remastered and totally redone; new guitars, drums and an over-sampling method vastly increasing the mastered volume of each song to today's standards making for an optimal sound that brings these tracks straight in to the modern day. Disc two will be a very special DVD release consisting of a recently discovered "never-before-released" live concert footage and also several MTV-style video clips that have never before been officially released. All footage has had the color completely corrected and restored and has been completely remastered in the 16:9 format. In addition to all of this, classic remastered video footage the DVD will also include a recently recorded "Where Are They Now" segment — shot in HD, and featuring the band "self-narrating" the story of CRYSTAVOX! If all that isn't enough for you, then you will definitely want to get your order in early as everyone that gets in on the pre-order will receive an exclusive third disc that will only be made available to those that pre-order. This bonus disc is a live EP of a behind-the-scenes recording taken straight from the soundboard at a New Year's Eve show in San Diego, California on December 31, 1992. This would ultimately be the last and only live audio recording CRYSTAVOX would ever do. Head over to www.roxxproductions.com to get your order in early and take advantage of this strictly limited-edition bonus disc. Also be sure to visit the brand new custom, state-of-the-art media web site showcasing some of the best audio and video performances from throughout the band's career at www.crystavox.com. Barbaranne Wylde, wife and co-manager of BLACK LABEL SOCIETY frontman Zakk Wylde, has confirmed that drummer Craig Nunenmacher has left BLACK LABEL SOCIETY. She writes on her Twitter profile, "[Zakk] was going to share, but I guess I will... Craig has quit the band and we will have a new drummer very soon." Roadrunner Records recently re-signed BLACK LABEL SOCIETY exclusively for the European territory. The band's as-yet-untitled studio album is due for release this summer. BLACK LABEL SOCIETY is preparing to enter Zakk's newly completed mountain-top recording studio to record its latest slab of uncompromising, unfiltered, and unrestrained rock and roll. Recording is slated to start later this month and with the new flexibility of having a studio literally outside his home, Wylde expects to deliver his best material yet. "With the home studio I have this flexibility when inspiration hits to lay down new ideas at anytime — day or night — for re-recording later," he says. "This freshness should prove inspiring — and some of these first takes might even make it on the album," he enthuses. Zakk continues, "I'm ready to work with our BLACK LABEL brothers and sisters at Roadrunner in Europe! They share the same Strength, Determination, Merciless, Forever attitude as BLACK LABEL SOCIETY does so it only seems natural to continue working together!" Zakk's new studio was built by Zack Fagan of Under The Wire, a Studio City, California-based company which specializes in the installation of commercial and private recording studios and post-production complexes. E1 Music recently announced the addition of BLACK LABEL SOCIETY to its rock and metal roster. The two-album deal covers North America exclusively. BLACK LABEL SOCIETY's last studio album, "Shot to Hell" (2006), sold just under 32,000 copies in the United States during its first week of release — less than the 45,000 copies shifted by BLS's "Mafia" (Artemis) back in March 2005 — to land at position No. 21 on The Billboard 200 chart. BLACK LABEL SOCIETY's "Skullage" DVD package sold 5,100 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 1 on the Top Music Videos chart. Released April 21, 2009 in three different configurations — CD, DVD and CD/DVD — this collection features the best of Zakk Wylde & Co. This massive greatest hits package is chock-full of live material, music videos, interviews, and a vivid cross-section of brutal and introspective tracks, from amped-up blazers like "Fire It Up" and "Suicide Messiah" to raw power ballads like "In This River" and "Spoke In The Wheel". MOTÖRHEAD will perform at Stubb's in Austin, Texas on Tuesday, March 16 to help celebrate the world premiere of "Lemmy", a documentary that follows MOTÖRHEAD's frontman Ian "Lemmy" Kilmister on the road and into his home. The film will premiere at the 2010 South By Southwest (SXSW) festival in Austin next month. Also playing at Stubb's on March 16 will be THE SWORD and YEAR LONG DISASTER. "Lemmy" promises fans more access than ever before to Kilmister's life, and includes interviews with past and present bandmates and such peers/admirers as Slash, Dave Grohl, METALLICA, Alice Cooper, Ozzy Osbourne and wrestling superstar Triple H. Directors/producers Greg Olliver and Wes Orshoski, spent three years with Lemmy to capture the life and history of the legendary rocker, traveling from Kilmister's Hollywood home to concerts in Scandinavia and Russia. The film, for which Olliver and Orshoski are seeking distribution, was shot on a combination of HD video and super 16 mm film. "Lemmy never ceases to surprise me," Orshoski told Billboard.com in a 2008 interview. "You think you know who Lemmy is, but you have no idea. If you think you have Lemmy all figured out, trust me. You don't!" "Shooting Lemmy is like filming dangerous wildlife. He never does what you expect him to do, and he never does anything you want him to do," Olliver added. "A lot of the coolest shots are shots we had to wait for four or five shows to go by before we could get them." Of the film's impending release, Kilmister quipped, "Amazing! See Lemmy breathe in and breathe out!! See him move his fingers independently!! All singing and dancing!! Give generously!!!" Hailed as a godfather of heavy metal, 64-year-old Ian "Lemmy" Kilmister has established himself as the living embodiment of rock and roll over the past four decades. After stints with popular Mersey beat band THE ROCKIN' VICKERS and influential psychedelic rockers HAWKWIND, and even a brief time spent as a member of Jimi Hendrix's road crew, Lemmy formed MOTÖRHEAD in 1975. According to LedZeppelinNews.com, LED ZEPPELIN legend Robert Plant has set "It's Rude To Say No" as the tentative title of his new solo album, due later this year. The CD is reportedly being produced by Buddy Miller at a studio in Nashville and will feature a guest appearance by singer-songwriter Darrell Scott, "who played such instruments as mandolin and glockenspiel" on the album. He is one of a few key players in a tight-knit band appearing on the record. Scott says of working with Plant, "Those two-plus weeks were some of the most memorable times I've ever had in the studio. The number one thing is that Robert loves music. You think they're posing and just getting through it, but I was humbled with how Robert Plant loved the music — old country, blues, rockabilly..." Read more from LedZeppelinNews.com. Swedish metal veterans ENTOMBED will play a week's worth of shows surrounding their appearance at this year's Maryland Deathfest appearance. Support on the trek will come from MERAUDER, with WOE OF TYRANTS appearing on the last five dates. The details are as follows: May 31 - Championship Bar and Grill - Trenton, NJ Jun. 01 - Opera House - Toronto, ON Jun. 02 - Gramercy Theatre - New York, NY Jun. 03 - Peabody's - Cleveland, OH Jun. 04 - Blondies - Detroit, MI Jun. 05 - Reggies - Chicago, IL Jun. 06 - The Rave - Milwaukee, WI Appearing with: May 31 with MERAUDER Jun. 01 with OBITUARY, MERAUDER Jun. 02 - Jun. 06 with MERAUDER, WOE OF TYRANTS ENTOMBED will offer special VIP meet-and-greet tickets for their June 2-6 dates, which will include both early entry into the building and a special pre-show meet-and-greet with the band prior to the general public entering. Tickets go on sale today at EnterTheVault.com exclusively until March 1, at which point they will be made available through all normal ticketing systems. ENTOMBED performed as a five-piece for the first time in years on October 17, 2009 at Arenan in Stockholm, Sweden, with the band's bassist Nico Elgstrand playing second guitar for this one gig only. Handling the bass duties for the Stockholm show and the rest of ENTOMBED's recent tour with AMON AMARTH was Victor Brandt (TOTALT JÄVLA MÖRKER, AEON, ex-SATYRICON), who was filling in temporarily while Elgstrand took some time off to focus on other affairs. KILLSWITCH ENGAGE vocalist Howard Jones is leaving the band's current headlining tour with THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA and DARK TRANQUILLITY due to unforeseen circumstances. ALL THAT REMAINS/ex-SHADOWS FALL vocalist Phil Labonte will be filling in for Jones for a few shows in the interim, until the KILLSWITCH ENGAGE guys can determine what the plan will be for the remaining tour dates, which are currently scheduled to run through the end of March. KILLSWITCH ENGAGE has contributed a previously unreleased song to the digital extended play (EP) soundtrack for the highly anticipated PlayStation3 (PS3) exclusive videogame "God of War III". The EP, titled "God of War: Blood & Metal", will be released in March via Roadrunner Records as a part of the "God of War III Ultimate Edition", and will also feature four other previously unreleased songs from Roadrunner artists — TRIVIUM, DREAM THEATER, OPETH and TAKING DAWN. Consumers who purchase the "God of War III Ultimate Edition" will receive a voucher code to download the tracks, as well as downloadable music in the form of the "God of War Trilogy" soundtrack. Fans will also receive a special code to download a director's cut of "God of War: Unearthing the Legend", a full-length movie documentary depicting the history of the "God of War" franchise, access to an exclusive "God of War Challenge Arena" environment with up to seven unique challenges, an exclusive Kratos skin, and a limited-edition art book. The "God of War III Ultimate Edition" will retail for $99.99 (MSRP).     1-8-10 The much-anticipated American Carnage tour, featuring thrash metal behemoths MEGADETH, SLAYER and TESTAMENT, has been put on hold due to health issues. SLAYER's bassist/vocalist Tom Araya is in need of back surgery which cannot be postponed. While disappointed by the tour's delay, MEGADETH "is concerned for Araya and wish[es] him a speedy recovery," according to a statement released by the band's record label, Roadrunner Records. MEGADETH is currently scheduling a U.S. headline run for March and April, and hopes to reschedule the American Carnage tour for this summer. Anyone who has purchased an American Carnage ticket should hold on to it until further notice. MEGADETH's new album, "Endgame", sold 45,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 9 on The Billboard 200 chart. MEGADETH's previous CD, "United Abominations", opened with around 54,000 copies in the U.S. to debut at No. 8. This was more than the 46,000 first-week tally registered by its predecessor, "The System Has Failed" (which landed at No. 18 on The Billboard 200 chart), and was a bit less than the 61,000 opening number of 2001's "The World Needs A Hero" (No. 16). "Endgame" was recorded at MEGADETH's brand new, self-built studio in San Marcos, California — Vic's Garage — which was named after the legendary and iconic Vic Rattlehead character. The CD was helmed by MEGADETH mainman Dave Mustaine and British producer Andy Sneap (EXODUS, NEVERMORE, ARCH ENEMY, MACHINE HEAD). Swedish metallers DREAM EVIL will release their new studio album, entitled "In The Night", via Century Media Records on the following dates: Sweden: January 20 Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy: January 22 North America, Spain: January 26 Finland, Hungary: January 27 U.K.: February 1 "In The Night" was once again produced at Sweden's Studio Fredman (DIMMU BORGIR, IN FLAMES, HAMMERFALL), which is owned by DREAM EVIL axeman Fredrik Nordström. The track listing for the CD is as follows: 01. Immortal 02. In The Night 03. Bang Your Head 04. See The Light 05. Electric 06. Frostbite 07. On The Wind 08. The Ballad 09. In The Fires Of The Sun 10. Mean Machine 11. Kill, Burn, Be Evil 12. The Unchosen One The song "Bang Your Head" is available for streaming at this location. BLACK LABEL SOCIETY have inked a U.S. deal with E1 Music (formerly KOCH Records) for the release of the band's next album. Tentatively due in June, the CD will be recorded during January/February at guitarist/vocalist Zakk Wylde's new studio, which was built by Zack Fagan of Under The Wire, a Studio City, California-based company which specializes in the installation of commercial and private recording studios and post-production complexes. BLACK LABEL SOCIETY's "Skullage" DVD package sold 5,100 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 1 on the Top Music Videos chart. Released April 21 in three different configurations — CD, DVD and CD/DVD — this collection features the best of Zakk Wylde & Co. This massive greatest hits package is chock-full of live material, music videos, interviews, and a vivid cross-section of brutal and introspective tracks, from amped-up blazers like "Fire It Up" and "Suicide Messiah" to raw power ballads like "In This River" and "Spoke In The Wheel". BLACK LABEL SOCIETY announced in June 2007 that it had parted ways with Roadrunner Records. After taking an official break over two years ago, it has now become reality that Norwegian extreme metal act ZYKLON is no longer a functional band, and thus the decision was made to formally split up the group instead of just letting it descend into nothingness. As a final release from the band, Candlelight Records will later this year put out a ZYKLON box set, entitled "The Storm Manifesto", featuring all three of the group's full-length albums plus bonus material. ZYKLON played its final show in Tokyo, Japan on September 28, 2007. All members of ZYKLON are still active on various fronts. Guitarist Samoth is currently in the studio working on the debut album for his new project, THE WRETCHED END. Fellow axeman Destructhor is still touring with MORBID ANGEL, and is still planning to complete a new MYRKSKOG album with bassist/vocalist Secthdamon. Drummer Trym is mainly working in his tattoo shop, but is scheduled to appear in a new music project soon. ZYKLON's third album, "Disintegrate", was released in 2006 via Candlelight Records. The CD was recorded at Akkerhaugen Lydstudio in Norway and was mixed at Studio Fredman in Gothenburg, Sweden. ZYKLON's DVD, titled "Storm Detonation Live", came out in March 2006 via Candlelight. Recorded at Germany's 2004 Party.San Open Air festival, the DVD contained the band's live show plus exclusive on-the-road/backstage footage, an exclusive look into rehearsals for "Disintegrate" and both the "Psyklon Aeon" and "Core Solution" videos. German power metallers ANGEL DUST have been rejoined by vocalist Dirk Thurisch, who left the band in 2005. The group is currently working on material for its seventh album, "Tales From Ashes And Dust", due out later this year. ANGEL DUST 2010 is: Dirk Assmuth - Drums Bernd Aufermann - Guitar Steven Banx - Keyboards Christian Pohlmann - Bass Dirk Thurisch - Vocals ANGEL DUST guitarist Bernd Aufermann (ex-RUNNING WILD) previously stated about the material that is slated to appear on the follow-up to 2002's "Of Human Bondage", "I'm VERY satisfied with the way the guitar will approach in the music and the material is, in my opinion, the best we've ever written." ANGEL DUST will perform at the Metropole Ruhr Festival 2010 on April 4, 2010 at Turbinenhalle in Oberhausen, Germany. In other news, Thurisch has reactivated his solo project MERCURY TIDE, which also features ANGEL DUST bassist Christian Pohlmann. For more information, visit www.myspace.com/mercurytide09. "Organized Lie", a brand new song from the reunited Little Rock, Arkansas-based Christian death/thrash/metalcore band LIVING SACRIFICE, is available for streaming on the group's MySpace page page. The track comes off the group's new album, "The Infinite Order", which will be released on January 26 via Solid State Records. The group's first CD since reforming in 2008 and seventh studio album overall was produced in Nashville, Tennessee and Little Rock, Arkansas by the band's longtime friend Jeremiah Scott (THE SHOWDOWN, DESTROY DESTROY DESTROY). Mixing duties were once again handled by Andy Sneap (MEGADETH, MACHINE HEAD, AS I LAY DYING), who worked on the band's last album, 2003's "Conceived in Fire". "The Infinite Order" track listing: 01. Overkill Exposure 02. Rules Of Engagement 03. Nietzche's Madman 04. Unfit To Live 05. The Training 06. Organized Lie 07. The Reckoning 08. Love Forgives 09. They Were One 10. God Is My Home 11. Apostasy       12-05-09   METALLICA, JUDAS PRIEST, LAMB OF GOD, MEGADETH, AC/DC and SLAYER are among the nominees for the 52nd annual Grammy Awards, which will be held on Sunday, January 31, 2010 at Staples Center in Los Angeles. The nominees in the "Hard Rock" and "Metal" categories are as follows: Best Hard Rock Performance: * AC/DC - "War Machine" (from "Black Ice") * ALICE IN CHAINS - "Check My Brain" (from "Black Gives Way to Blue") * LINKIN PARK - "What I've Done" (from "Road to Revolution: Live at Milton Keyes") * METALLICA - "The Unforgiven III" (from "Death Magnetic") * NICKELBACK - "Burn it to the Ground" (from "Dark Horse") Best Metal Performance: * JUDAS PRIEST - "Dissident Aggressor" (from "A Touch of Evil Live" * LAMB OF GOD - "Set to Fail" (from "Wrath") * MEGADETH - "Head Crusher" (from "Endgame") * MINISTRY - "Señor Peligro" (from "Adios...") * SLAYER - "Hate Worldwide" (from "World Painted Blood") The 52nd annual Grammy Awards will be broadcast live will be broadcast live in high definition TV and 5.1 Surround Sound on CBS from 8:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. EST. Finnish all-girl band INDICA has inked a deal with Germany's Nuclear Blast Records. Commented the group in a statement: "It is very rare to see such enthusiasm that we have already witnessed with all the Nuclear Blast people about our forthcoming debut album in English. We can't wait to start to work with all of you, to get the album out and to start touring in Europe!" Added Markus Staiger, Nuclear Blast President: "We are very proud to welcome this young band from Finland to the Nuclear Blast family. Those five exceptional girls have totally captivated all of us. With their magical and self-contained form of romantic and melancholic rock music we are trying to explore into directions which are new to us and and it will be a big but more than exciting challenge!" INDICA's album was produced by NIGHTWISH mastermind Tuomas Holopainen, who has previously toured Europe with INDICA twice. He says, "INDICA has such sights to show you! You will be spellbound for lifetime!" The new INDICA album, "A Way Away", is due in early summer 2010. For more information, visit www.indica.fi Veteran German metallers RAGE will release their new album, "Strings To A Web", on February 5, 2010 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD was recorded at Twilight Hall Studio and was produced by Charlie Bauerfeind (BLIND GUARDIAN, HAMMERFALL). The cover artwork was created by Thomas Ewerhard (AVANTASIA, THERION), and it shows the soundchaser as a spider, caught in a web. "Strings To A Web" track listing: 01. The Edge Of Darkness 02. Hunter And Prey 03. Into The Light 04. The Beggar's Last Dime 05. Empty Hollow 06. Strings To A Web 07. Fatal Grace 08. Connected 09. Empty Hollow (Reprise) 10. Saviour Of The Dead 11. Hellgirl 12. Purified 13. Through Ages 14. Tomorrow Never Comes The song "Into The Light" is now available for streaming at the band's MySpace page. MARILYN MANSON has parted ways with longtime record label Interscope following the disappointing sales performance of the shock-rocker's latest album, entitled "The High End Of Low". "We've just been released from our record contract with Interscope so I think a lot of the creative control on which my hands were tied on a lot of choices — the music videos — things like that," Manson told U.K.'s Metal Hammer Magazine. "And the first example is the newest video, they clearly wouldn't have allowed me to make that video. So we started writing new songs on the road — a bit like [David Bowie's album] 'Aladdin Sane' — I think people can expect a new record a lot sooner than we [expected]. When told that he doesn't seem like someone who wouldn't put his foot down with a label, Manson said, "You'd be surprised how much restraint my creativity had which ended up often times in my life, not want to make music because I was so restrained from the music that I wanted to make — what they would allow, they would put out, what ideas they would allow to be conveyed in these videos. At least half of my creative output has been squashed, so now I think people can expect a whole lot more." Trent Reznor of NINE INCH NAILS signed MARILYN MANSON to his label Nothing Records, a vanity label of Interscope, in 1993. Nothing Records became defunct in 2004, and MARILYN MANSON remained signed solely to Interscope. "The High End Of Low" sold 49,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 4 on The Billboard 200 chart. It has shifted 121,000 units to date, according to Nielsen SoundScan. '80s hard rock queen LITA FORD is confirmed to perform at the original shock rocker ALICE COOPER’S ninth annual Christmas Pudding concert on December 18 at Dodge Theater in Phoenix, Arizona. Also on the bill are Cooper himself, along with ROGER CLYNE & THE PEACEMAKERS, TWISTED SISTER's Dee Snider, "American Idol" contestant and valley native Scott MacIntyre, GARY MULE DEER, RUNAWAY PHOENIX, TV personality Brad Perry's aptly titled band the BRAD PERRY BAND, and RIVER OF LIFE CHOIR. The Christmas-themed variety show is expected to lure 3,500 fans, and will include performances from the winners of this year's "Proof Is In The Pudding" contest," which was Cooper's version of "American Idol". "I'm so excited to play with Alice at his wonderful Christmas Pudding event," says Lita. "I'm hoping we get to sing 'Only Women Bleed' together. 'Welcome to My Nightmare' is still the best show I've ever seen and I'm a huge fan, so this is quite an honor." Tickets are priced at $38, $48, and $203 for VIP seating, which includes a seat at one of the cabaret-styled tables in front of the stage, an artist attended pre-show reception, and a pre-show dinner. Fans can also buy four reserved seats for the price of $100. In the spirit of giving, all proceeds from the event benefit Solid Rock, whose mission is to make an everlasting difference in the lives of children and throughout our community. To cap off a stellar year, Lita and her brood plan to lay low at home for the holiday’s. "After touring all over the world this year it will be nice just to stay home and watch the kids open their presents," adds Lita. For more information on Christmas Pudding, check out www.alicepudding.com. FEAR FACTORY — the newly revamped band featuring original FF members Dino Cazares (guitar) and Burton C. Bell (vocals) alongside bassist Byron Stroud (who was credited on the last two FEAR FACTORY albums in addition to touring and recording with STRAPPING YOUNG LAD and ZIMMERS HOLE) and legendary drummer Gene Hoglan (DETHKLOK, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, DARK ANGEL, DEATH, TESTAMENT) — will make its live debut this Friday, December 4 at Espaço Lux in São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo, Brazil. A handful of dates in Chile, Argentina, Colombia and Mexico are also scheduled to take place later this month. FEAR FACTORY is rumored to be planning a U.K. tour in February 2010, with the web site of the Wulfrun Hall in Wolverhampton currently listing a February 17 FF date at the venue. The band is also said to be playing the Academy 2 in Manchester on February 16 and the Electric Ballroom in London on February 19, although this has not yet been corroborated by an official source and should be treated as a rumor only at this point. FEAR FACTORY will release its new album, "Mechanize", in the U.S. on February 9, 2010 via Candlelight Records and February 5, 2010 in Europe via AFM Records. The CD, which was co-produced by the band with Rhys Fulber (FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY, PARADISE LOST), was recently mixed by Greg Reely (PARADISE LOST, FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY, SKINNY PUPPY).       8/31/09 Mustis (keyboards; real name: Øyvind Mustaparta) and ICS Vortex (clean vocals, bass; real name: Simen Hestnæs) are no longer members of the Norwegian symphonic black metal band Dimmu Borgir, according to a posting on Mustis' MySpace page. Both Mustis and Vortex were apparently either fired or had no other choice than to leave the group after years of disagreements. No further details are currently available, but it should be rather telling that Mustis has set the "mood indicator" on his MySpace page to "betrayed." (NOTE: Since this story was first published, Mustis has changed his "mood indicator" setting to "creative.") This has now been officially confirmed from the Dimmu Borgir camp as well. Last year's "Blackest Of The Black" tour with Danzig helped support Dimmu's latest DVD titled The Invaluable Darkness, which debuted at No. 5 on the Top Music Videos chart in mid-October. It was also the band's last North American tour promoting their eighth studio album, In Sorte Diaboli, which debuted on Billboard's Top Independent Albums chart at No. 2, and on The Billboard 200 chart at No. 43. 30-second audio samples of all the tracks that will appear on Megadeth's new album, Endgame, are available for streaming on Amazon.de (scroll down). They can also be streamed in the YouTube clip below. Due on September 15 via Roadrunner Records, "Endgame" was recorded at the band's brand new, self-built studio in San Marcos, California — Vic's Garage — which was named after the legendary and iconic Vic Rattlehead character. Endgame track listing: 01. Dialectic Chaos 02. This Day We Fight! 03. 44 Minutes 04. 1,320' 05. Bite The Hand That Feeds 06. Bodies Left Behind 07. Endgame 08. The Hardest Part Of Letting Go... Sealed With A Kiss 09. Headcrusher 10. How the Story Ends 11. The Right To Go Insane Endgame was helmed by Megadeth mainman Dave Mustaine and acclaimed British producer Andy Sneap (Exodus, Nevermore, Arch Enemy, Machine Head). Sneap also manned the boards for 2007's United Abominations. According to a press release, Endgame "boasts the technicality, ferocity and snarl that's synonymous with Megadeth and Mustaine. It's a violent masterwork that represents Mustaine's best work in nearly two decades. In a musical world dominated by bands that make generic, blanket statements, 'Endgame' finds Mustaine, once again, making informed and substantial lyrical declarations about the state of the world we live in." Commented Mustaine: "Thematically, I've never been known to be a silent bystander in a world that needs our participation. As more is revealed about our former President's legacy, a little-known yet staggeringly frightening document which was signed into law, named 'Endgame', has been uncovered. The album 'Endgame' is the most energetic music offering I have penned in over a decade and is far more believable than knowing someone signed 'Endgame' — the document — into law. The album is also the perfect 'ass-kicking' music to listen to once you are done reading the aforementioned document!" He added, "This new album is my proudest moment since the famous (or infamous) 'Rust in Peace' album. With this album, I am also very excited to be introducing my new lead guitarist, Chris Broderick, to the world. I have always felt lucky to have had top shredders in that position, but after touring with Chris in support of my last album, I couldn't wait to get into the studio and see what he could do." Megadeth filmed a video for the song "Headcrusher" on July 28 in the Los Angeles area. Mustaine previously described the clip — which will feature mixed martial arts — as "'Gladiator'-meets-UFC-meets-inside-of-Dave-Mustaine's-brain." U.K.'s Metal Hammer magazine and The Quietus have both posted track-by-track reviews of "Endgame". Check them out by following the links below: Zakk Wylde's wife Barbaranne has revealed via her Twitter account that the Black Label Socirty frontman has returned home to Los Angeles after dropping off the remaining dates on the "Pedal To The Metal Tour" due to his health problems. According to Barbaranne, Zakk is in "stable" condition right now after being diagnosed with blood clots in his lungs and leg. She writes, "We are following up with his [doctors] in L.A. with hopes of beginning a slow recovery. Apparently, this is a long process." Wylde stated in a recent Twitter message that he has to get himself to a hospital emergency room "every 48 hours" to check his blood. He added that he is unable to sing at the moment "because pushing can cause an embolism." An embolism occurs when an object migrates from one part of the body (through circulation) and causes a blockage (occlusion) of a blood vessel in another part of the body. The "Pedal To The Metal Tour" will continue without Black Label Society, and the rest of the bands — Mudvayne, Static-X, Suicide Silence and Bury Your Dead — will carry on with the trek as scheduled. Further updates on Zakk's medical condition will become available as they are known. Rock legend Ozzy Osbourne will now be opening AND closing the second annual Sunset Strip Music Festival (SSMF), set for September 10-12. The three-day festival will kick off when Ozzy is honored at a tribute event Thursday, September 10 at the House of Blues and then Ozzy will perform the festival's final set Saturday, September 12. That's when, for the first time ever, the Sunset Strip (between Doheny Drive and San Vicente Blvd.) will be closed to host two concert stages. Korn, Pepper, The Donnas and Kottonmouth Kings are among the 40 acts performing throughout the day. Ozzy's appearance will mark his first full performance on the Sunset Strip in almost 40 years and his first ever as a solo artist. Back in 1970, Black Sabbath performed a five-night stand (November 11-15) at the legendary Whisky A Go-Go as part of their first U.S. tour. His career has spanned four decades and his music is as relevant today as ever. The multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer has sold more than 100 million albums worldwide — 50 with Black Sabbath and as many as a solo artist — and in 2003 was honored with a star on Hollywood Boulevard's "Walk of Fame." Anticipation for Ozzy at the Sunset Strip Music Festival 2009 is already building: his immortal image is now displayed on one of the largest billboards in Los Angeles (see below). It hangs high above The Sunset Strip spanning 12-stories (6,500 square feet tall) off the east side of the famous 9000 Building directly across the street from The Roxy Theatre and Rainbow Bar & Grill. The signage will be lit at night allowing for its viewing from miles away. On Saturday, September 12, there will be 40-plus music acts throughout the day performing on two stages set up on the street and on club stages within the street closure — Key Club, The Roxy Theatre, Cat Club and Whisky A Go-Go. Tickets are available now for a discounted price of $39.50. 5/13/09 Finnish heavy metal band Children Of Bodom were forced to cancel their remaining live dates as part of the No Fear Energy Tour with Lamb Of God due to injuries sustained by guitarist and frontman Alexi Laiho. Laiho, 30, broke his shoulder two weeks ago when he was ejected from his tour bus bunk after the vehicle took a sharp turn. Laiho and the rest of Children Of Bodom were touring North America in support of the band's critically acclaimed album Blooddrunk. Against recommendation, Laiho had decided to "bite the bullet" and remain on tour, wearing the arm in a sling to restrict movement at all times when he was not on stage. But after performing ten live dates with both the broken shoulder and internal bleeding, the toll became too much for the guitar hero to endure and Children Of Bodom made the decision to cut its current tour short, placing Laiho's long-term health as its first priority. "After the New York show (on May 8), I knew it was going to be over," Laiho said in a statement. "During the third song, I started feeling like someone was stabbing me in my lungs, my heart and my ribs. That was the kind of pain that neither stubbornness, painkillers, nor alcohol could alleviate. I wanted to try to keep going but after seeing a second doctor in Philadelphia, I was basically told that I could fuck myself up for life if I don't stop playing. Against all recommendation, I have played and sang for the last 10 days in violent pain which has only made my condition worsen. So I decided to listen to everyone around me, who were telling me the best thing to do would be to go home and get some proper rest and give my shoulder some time to heal. "This was a hard decision for me and I feel bad about it," he continued. "But it is the right thing to do if I want to keep making music. I apologize to our great fans for not being there for the remaining shows and I want to thank all the guys from the other bands — Lamb Of God, As I Lay Dying, God Forbid and Municipal Waste — for backing me up on this. Most of all, I want to thank our fans for still being there, showing support, and continuing to rock out with me! I promise I will be back and I hope you all will too! Horns up!" After a few weeks rest, Children Of Bodom will start their European summer festival run on May 30 from Rock Hard Festival in Gelsenkirchen, Germany. All summer festival dates will go down as planned and remain unaffected by Alexi's injury. As previously reported, Children Of Bodom performed an abbreviated, three-song set Friday night (May 8) at the New York City stop of the "No Fear Energy Tour". Former Korn guitarist Brian "Head" Welch has told Noisecreep that he is fully happy with his decision to leave the band in 2005 and has not considered a return to the group that made him famous. "If I ever felt God lead me back to Korn for some reason, I'd go," he said. Welch will launch the first solo U.S. tour this month in support of his debut album, Save Me From Myself, which was released September 9 on his Driven Music Group label. Later this summer, Welch will appear on the main stage at the Cornerstone Festival in Bushnell, Illinois on July 2, and in Las Vegas at the 20,000-seat Thomas & Mack Arena in August (exact date and billing to be announced May 1). More tour dates will be announced in the coming weeks. Welch's backing band will consist of the following musicians: Scott Von Heldt (guitar) Ralph Patlan (guitar) Michael Valentine (bass) Dan Johnson (drums) Brian Ruedy (keyboards/programming) Head is very excited about hitting the tour circuit again. "I did my first show in Phoenix last weekend and it was nuts," he told Noisecreep. "Besides the normal crowd, the promoter bused in a bunch of drug-addicted kids that lived on the streets and you could see them change right before your eyes. They were jumping up and down. At the end of the show, we all shouted together like an army, 'Jesus Christ, change me. Make me a new person.'" Head also shared the story of overcoming drug addiction with the crowd before launching into the title track. "That was emotional and there were a lot of tears," he recalled. "Overall, it's a very draining experience, with kids jumping up and down, sweating, crying, hugging and screaming for change. It's like a huge heavy metal party with God." Save Me From Myself sold 7,800 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 63 on The Billboard 200 chart. The CD was released on September 9 through Driven Music Group (distribution by Ryko/Warner Music Group), the label Welch co-founded with music execs Greg Shanaberger and Mark Nawara. Save Me From Myself was produced by Head, who recorded the music off and on for the past two years in Phoenix, Arizona. It features renowned musicians Tony Levin (Peter Gabriel, David Bowie) and Josh Freese (A Perfect Circle, Nine Inch Nails), and was mixed by Ralph Patlan and Bob Clearmountain. It's a testimony of Head's life as he battled with drug addiction and leaving Korn, and finding spirituality. Former Skid Row singer Sebastian Bach performed this past Saturday (May 9) for the New York Mets Autism Awareness Day at Citi Field in Flushing, New York. Bach played a short set in support of VH1 Classic Rock Autism, a campaign that is designed to help educate parents and build awareness about autism. VH1 Classic Rock Autism also helps to raise funds for a variety of autism research, advocacy and support organizations. Watch fan-filmed video footage of the performance below. Another clip can be viewed at this location. (Note: Bach's performance reportedly took place 30 minutes prior to the first pitch.) Bach is best known for selling 20 million albums as the former lead singer of Skid Row. He has gone on to star on Broadway and television, including five seasons on CW's "Gilmore Girls", as well as hit shows on VH1, MTV and CMT. Bach's latest project is Angel Down, his first solo album since 1999. The record features 14 new songs with a guest appearance by Guns N' Roses front man Axl Rose on three recordings, including a blistering version of Aerosmith's "Back In The Saddle". Megadeth mainman Dave Mustaine has issued the following audio update at TheLiveLine.com: "I'm going to be working on the new Will Ferrell movie 'Land Of The Lost'... and going to be putting some music on that. I went and saw the movie last week and it was hilarious. I loved it. I love Will Ferrell; think he's hilarious anyways. But, yeah, we're getting ready to send some music up to these guys right now and you're listening to some in the background, and then I'll be heading up there this week to hopefully finish all this off with their guys. And man, how exciting for me." On January 7, Megadeth commenced the recording process for its twelfth studio album at the band's own Vic's Garage studio in San Marcos, California. The CD is once again being helmed by acclaimed British producer Andy "Undie" Sneap, who produced Megadet's last album, "United Abominations" (May 2007, Roadrunner Records). Tentatively due in September via Roadrunner, Megadeth's forthcoming LP will be the group's first with guitarist Chris Broderick, who replaced Glen Drover at the end of 2007. Primal Fear: Six Times Dead (16.6) Video Available - May 8, 2009 Six Times Dead (16.6), the new video from German power metallers Primal Fear, can be viewed below. Primal Fear's new album, 16.6: (Before The Devil Knows You're Dead), will be released in Europe on 16.6: (Before The Devil Knows You're Dead) was recorded at House Of Music studios in Winterbach, Germany with Dennis Ward and Achim Köhler. The CD marks the group's first release with guitarist Magnus Karlsson (Allen/Lande, Starbreaker), who replaced Stefan Leibing last year. Returning guitarist Henny Wolter and Karlsson participated in the songwriting and pre-production, which took place at Karlsson's Stuntguitar Studio in Sweden. The band spent four weeks at House Of Music recording the effort, which was mastered by Ted Jensen at the Sterling Sound in New York City. Several audio samples from 16.6: (Before The Devil Knows You're Dead) are available for download at Frontiers.it. Primal Fear's last album, New Religion, in 2007 landed on the Swedish chart at No. 67. It also entered the German chart at No. 60. The CD was released in the U.S. on January 29, 2008 via Locomotive/Ryko. Guest musicians on the album include Kai Hansen (Gamma Ray, ex-Helloween) and Simone Simons (Epica).     2/25/09 Pittsburgh traditional metallers Icarus Witch have issued the following update: "Just a quick note to let everyone know Icarus Witch is back in the studio for pre-production on our fourth CD. Writing and demoing new music for the follow-up to 2007's 'Songs For The Lost' is not a simple task, as we always strive to better ourselves and grow as songwriters while still staying true to our initial vision. No song or album titles just yet, but the music is finally sounding the way we've always wanted it to. Good things come to those who wait, right?" Songs for the Lost was once again produced by Eric Klinger (Pro-Pain, Built Upon Frustration) and includes a cover of Def Leppard's "Mirror Mirror", featuring a guest appearance by legendary Rainbow/Deep Purple vocalist Joe Lynn Turner. Miika Tenkula, former lead guitarist and main songwriter of the acclaimed Finnish band Sentenced, was found dead at his home earlier today (Thursday, February 19). He was 34 years old. "The metal scene in Finland mourns now for one of the most talented metal guitarists to ever emerge from [the country]." The official cause of Miika's death has not yet been released. Sentenced’s posthumous DVD, Buried Alive, was certified platinum last year in the band's native Finland. The disc topped the official Finnish chart upon its release in late 2006. Norwegian melodic black metal band Old Man’s Child, which is led by guitarist/vocalist Galder (also in Dimmu Borgir), has posted the title track from its forthcoming album, "Slaves Of The World", on the group's MySpace page page. Due on May 19 via Century Media Records (one day earlier internationally), the CD was recorded last fall at Studio Fredman in Gothenburg, Sweden with producer Fredrik Nordström (Dimmu Borgir, Arch Enemy, In Flames, etc.), who had previously worked with the band on the In Defiance Of Existence (2003) and Vermin (2005) albums. The nine-song effort features Peter Wildoer (Darkane, Pestilence) on drums. Old Man's Child's last album, Vermin, was released in October 2005 via Century Media Records. The follow-up to 2003's "In Defiance of Existence" was recorded at Studio Fredman in Gothenburg, Sweden and features a guest appearance by Testament/Dragonlord guitarist Eric Peterson. Artwork was handled by Set<'H>. Italian hard rock band Lacuna Coil, which offers the dual vocals of male singer Andrea Ferro and female vocalist Cristina Scabbia, has posted a new song, "Spellbound", on its MySpace page page. The track comes off the group's much-anticipated new album, Shallow Life, which will be released via Century Media Records on the following dates: Europe: April 20 North America: April 21 The CD was recorded in September/October at NRG Studios in North Hollywood, California with producer Don Gilmore, who has previously worked with Linkin Park, Trapt, Avril Lavigne, Good Charlotte, The Veronicas, Pearl Jam, Trust Company and Duran Duran. Shallow Life track listing: 01. Survive 02. I Won't Tell You 03. Not Enough 04. I'm Not Afraid 05. I Like It 06. Underdog 07. The Pain 08. Spellbound 09. Wide Awake 10. The Maze 11. Unchained 12. Shallow Life Veteran California rockers Great White will release their new album, Rising, in Europe on March 13 via Frontiers Records. Since reuniting in January 2007 to perform a benefit concert, Great White has moved forward with the successful release in the summer of the same year of their return album Back To The Rhythm, a record which was hailed by critics and fans as a return to the heydays of the band. After a world tour that celebrated the first 25 years of Great White and that brought them for 14 concerts to Europe, bass player Sean McNabb opted out and was replaced by Scott Snyder (ex-Ramos, Accomplice). The band (which of course includes longtime members by Jack Russell, Michael Lardie, Audie Desbrow and Mark Kendall) went back to the studio and produced the brand new album Rising, once again a tribute to the Great White root sound with rock, blues and strong melodic elements. The Southern California blues hard rock band first took a bite out of the rock scene in 1984 and since then has achieved worldwide success, encompassing sales of over six million records. They received a Grammy Award nomination for "Best Hard Rock Performance" for the song "Once Bitten, Twice Shy" and earned a double platinum certification for the album "…Twice Shy". Guitarist Mike Stone has announced his departure from Queensryche. He said in a statement, "After much consideration, I will not be joining Queensryche on the 2009 American Soldier Tour. I feel now is the time to focus on other musical endeavors, including my new band Speed X with Nick Catanese of Black Label Society. I would like to thank all of the Queensryche fans around the world for being nothing less than amazing to me during my time with the band. You have treated me like gold, and I will never forget it. It has been an honor to be a part of the Queensryche family, and I wish Geoff, Michael, Scott and Eddie nothing but the very best." Queensryche added in a statement, "We will miss [Mike]. He is a wonderful player and has contributed to our lives musically and spiritually. We wish him the best and hope to see him succeed in everything he chooses to participate in." Queensryche's twelfth studio release, the epic concept album American Soldier, will be available from Atco/Rhino on March 31 for a suggested list price of $18.98 (CD) and $9.99 (digital). The ambitious album encompasses a dozen songs inspired by numerous interviews with veterans conducted by Geoff Tate, the group's singer and chief songwriter, who was intent on telling their story using their words. After speaking with soldiers who served in various conflicts — from World War II to Iraq — Tate turned their firsthand experiences from the frontlines into an unflinching musical examination of the life of a solider and the consequences of war. Queensryche guitarist Michael Wilton recently revealed that he recorded all the guitar parts for "American Soldier". He said in an online posting, "I recorded all the guitars this time so it should sound more like the original ' ryche." Soon after the release of American Soldier, Queensryche will launch an extensive spring tour of the U.S., with international dates to follow later in 2009. The shows will be presented in three suites, with the band performing sets from American Soldier, Rage For Order, and Empire. The first date of the tour will be April 16 at Snoqualmie Casino in the band's hometown of Seattle. German power metallers Primal Fear will return to Atlanta, Georgia to co-headline this year's ProgPower USA showcase on September 10 alongside Vanden Plas. Primal Fear says, "We're working on more East Coast shows from Florida to New York. We're [also] working on a tour in South America for August and the first show of the European tour is confirmed. The Metalfest at JBs in Dudley, U.K. [on September 25-27] will be part of the European tour 2009!" Primal Fear's new album, 16.6: (Before The Devil Knows You're Dead), was recorded at House Of Music studios in Winterbach, Germany with Dennis Ward and Achim Köhler. The CD, which is due in May via Frontiers Records, will mark the group's first release with guitarist Magnus Karlsson (Allen/Lande, Staebreaker), who replaced Stefan Leibing last year. Returning guitarist Henny Wolter and Karlsson participated in the songwriting and pre-production, which took place at Karlsson's Stuntguitar Studio in Sweden. The band spent four weeks at House Of Music recording the effort, which was mastered by Ted Jensen at the Sterling Sound in New York City. Primal Fear's last album, New Religion, in 2007 landed on the Swedish chart at No. 67. It also entered the German chart at No. 60. The CD was released in the U.S. on January 29, 2008 via Locomotive/Ryko. Guest musicians on the album include Kai Hansen (Gamma Ray, ex-Helloween) and Simone Simons (Epica). According to a posting on Loudness' official web site, the Japanese band's as-yet-untitled new album will be released in Japan on May 27 through Tokuma Japan Communications. More information will be made available soon. Loudness's upcoming tour of Japan will focus exclusively on songs from the band's first four albums — The Birthday Eve (1981), Devil Soldier (1982), Law Of Devil's Land (1983) and Disillusion (1984). The dates are as follows: April 07 - Club Quattro - Nagoya April 10 - Club Quattro Shinsaibashi - Osaka April 12 - Club Quattro Shibuya - Tokyo Loudness drummer Munetaka Higuchi passed away on November 30, 2008 following a seven-month battle with liver cancer. He was 49 years old. Higuchi was also the drummer of the rock band Lazy, going by the nickname of Davy, according to Tokyograph. The group disbanded in 1981 and Higuchi co-founded Loudness the same year. Lazy reunited in 1998. Higuchi was also active as a producer, handling artists such as Mari Hamada. Bassist Henkka Seppälä (a.k.a. Henkka T. Blacksmith) of Finnish metallers Children Of Bodom has told FemaleFirst that the band is planning on releasing a collection of covers sometime in the fall. The set is expected to feature most of the group's previously released cover versions, including the following: * "Aces High" by Iron Maiden * "Don't Stop At The Top" by the Scorpions * "Hellion" by W.A.S.P. * "Mass Hypnosis" by Sepultura * "No Commands" by Stone * "Shot In The Dark" by Ozzy Osbourne * "Iron, Steel, Metal" by Wizzard * "Rebel Yell" by Billy Idol * "Talk Dirty To Me" by Poison * "Latomeri" by Klamydia * "Bed Of Nails" by Alice Cooper * "She Is Beautiful" by Andrew W.K. * "Silent Scream" by Slayer * "Somebody Put Something in My Drink" by the Ramones * "Oops!... I Did It Again" by Britney Spears The U.S. branch of Spinefarm Records released the following Children Of Bodom titles on limited-edition picture disc vinyl on January 13: * "Blooddrunk" (2008) * "Tokyo Warhearts" (2006) * "Are You Dead Yet?" (2005) * "Follow the Reaper (2000) * "Hatebreeder" (1999) * "Something Wild" (1997) Each title is individually numbered and is limited to 1,500 copies, making it an instant collector's item! For more information, visit the Spinefarm webstore. 11/29/08 Heaven and Hell — the band featuring Black Sabbath members Ronnie James Dio (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass) and Vinny Appice (drums) — has entered Rockfield studios in Wales, England to begin recording its new album, the group's first since Sabbath's "Dehumanizer" (which was also recorded at Rockfield) in 1992. An early 2009 release via Rhino Records is expected. Two years ago, Dio, Iommi, Butler and Appice reunited to record a trio of new songs for Rhino's "Black Sabbath: The Dio Years" before launching a highly anticipated and greatly acclaimed world tour under their new moniker Heaven and Hell. Revitalized by the reunion, the lineup is back in the studio now recording the first-ever full-length studio album from Heaven and Hell. To whet the fans' appetites for the new album, Heaven and Hell returned to the road this past summer for a short stint on the Metal Masters Tour, a month-long North American trek with Judas Priest, Motorhead, and Testament. Regarding the band's decision to continue to operate as Heaven and Hell rather than Black Sabbath, Iommi told Billboard.com earlier this year, "It really is Black Sabbath, whatever we do. We just choose to go out as Heaven and Hell so everyone knows what they're getting [and] so people won't expect to hear 'Iron Man' and all those songs. We've done them for so many years, it's nice to do just all the stuff with did with Ronnie again." Heaven and Hell will hit the road in early 2009 in support of the new album. Swedish melodic metallers Hammerfall have set No Sacrifice, No Victory as the title of their eighth full-length album, due on February 20, 2009 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD was recorded in part at Andy La Rocque's (King Diamond) Sonic Train Studios in Varberg, Sweden and includes an instrumental written by the group's latest addition, guitarist Pontus Norgren (The Poodles, Talisman, Great King Rat), as well as a song entitled "One of a Kind", which was composed as a collaboration between Hammerfall guitarist Oscar Dronjak and In Flames axeman Jesper Strömblad (who was a member of Hammerfall in the band's earliest incarnation). The cover artwork was created by Sam Didier, while Thomas Ewerhard was responsible for the CD layout. No Sacrifice, No Victory track listing: 01. Any Means Necessary 02. Life Is Now 03. Punish And Enslave 04. Legion 05. Between Two Worlds 06. Hallowed Be My Name 07. Something For The Ages 08. No Sacrifice, No Victory 09. Bring The Hammer Down 10. One Of A Kind 11. My Sharona (The Knack cover) A video for the first single, "Any Means Necessary", will be shot in Belgrade, Serbia next week. Pontus Norgren joined Hammerfall as the replacement for Stefan Elmgren, who left the band in early April to focus on his new career as a pilot. Reactivated late '80s/early '90s technical-thrash metallers Believer have inked a deal with Metal Blade Records for the release of their new studio album, due in early 2009. One song from the CD received its world premier earlier tonight (Monday, November 17) on "Radio Bam", skateboarder and TV personality Bam Margera's weekly radio show on Sirius Satellite Radio 28 / XM Radio 52. The program will be rebroadcast at midnight EST on Monday, Tuesday and Saturday. Regarding what fans can expect to hear from Believer’s first studio album in 15 years, guitarist/vocalist Kurt Bachman previously said, "Will it sound like 'Extraction from Mortality' [1989], 'Sanity Obscure' [1990], 'Dimensions' [1993]? Well, we think you'll hear a splash of each, but we didn't set out to just rehash the old. That would be boring and offer nothing new for you to hear. With that said (and I will remind you again once the release date draws closer), if you don't expect a total rewrite of the past then we think you'll be pleasantly surprised." The new Believer CD will include guest appearances by Joe Rico (Sacrifice), CKY/World Under Blood guitarist/vocalist Deron Miller and Rocky Gray (Evanescence, Soul Embrased, Living Sacrifice), among other musicians. Believer’s albums "Extraction from Mortality" (1989), "Sanity Obscure" (1990) and "Dimensions" (1993) were made available in November 2007 via Poland's Metal Mind Productions in a new digipak edition on golden disc, digitally remastered using 24-bit technology and limited to 2,000 numbered copies. Richmond, Virginia-based metallers Lamb Of God have set "Wrath" as the title of their fifth studio album. The record will be issued in North America by Epic on February 24, 2009 and will be the band's first release outside North America through Roadrunner Records. "Wrath" was produced by Josh Wilbur and was recorded in studios in New York, Virginia, and New Hampshire. Lamb Of God finished the touring cycle for the Grammy-nominated album Sacrament at the end of 2007. The two-year trek was documented in the gold-certified DVD Walk with Me in Hell and culminated with the band headlining arenas across the U.S. last December. The band took the entirety of 2008 off the road to focus on the writing process for Wrath. "This album is going to surprise a lot of people," comments drummer Chris Adler. "Typically bands that get to where we are in our career begin to slack off, smell the roses and regurgitate. We chose a different path. No one wants to hear another band member hyping a new record. 'Wrath' needs no hype. We have topped ourselves and on February 24 you will feel it." Norwegian melodic black metal masters Old Man's Child will release a new studio album in early 2009 via Century Media Records. The band, which is led by guitarist/vocalist Galder (also in Dimmu Borgir), has just returned from a trip to Gothenburg, Sweden, where it spent several weeks laying down the new unholy compositions at Studio Fredman with producer Fredrik Nordström (Dimmu Borgir, Arch Enemy, In Flames, etc.), who had previously worked with the band on the In Defiance Of Existence (2003) and Vermin (2005) albums. The new Old Man's Child album's title has not yet been revealed, but the nine-song CD will feature Peter Wildoer (Darkane, Pestilence) on drums. Commented Peter: "After having being asked to be part of the new OMC album, I obviously went back and listened to the previous releases of the band, so I now am able to say that in my opinion, these new nine songs are the best material I have heard of the band so far. There is a lot of more variety going on and the album will sound bigger than any other OMC record before. As far as my performance goes, this is probably the best drumming I have ever recorded so far. I am extremely happy and proud of the session and there's a lot more double bass and blast beats on here than you have normally heard me doing, so look out for this great record!" Old Man’s Child's last album, Vermin, was released in October 2005 via Century Media Records. The follow-up to 2003's In Defiance of Existence was recorded at Studio Fredman in Gothenburg, Sweden and features a guest appearance by Testamebt/Dragonlord guitarist Eric Peterson. Artwork was handled by Set<'H>. 2009 will mark '80s hard rock band Keel's 25th anniversary and the passing of two decades since the original lineup played on stage together. Unlike most of their contemporaries, none of the members has ever performed as Keel since 1989. Ron Keel, guitarists Marc Ferrari and Bryan Jay, drummer Dwain Miller along with Geno Arce (Ron's longtime bassist) are preparing to perform again for the first time in 20 years. With the high volume of requests for the band to reunite, the members felt the time is right to deliver the show fans everywhere have been demanding: a Keel reunion. "It would not have been right without these guys," says Ron Keel. Plans are for Keel to reunite at a select number of festivals and showcase dates in 2009 to perform all their hits and classic favorites in celebration of 25 years of rock 'n' roll history. The Keel debut reunion concert will take place in Hollywood on Saturday, January 31. The location for this historic event will be Club Vodka at The Knitting Factory. In 1985, Keel’s The Right To Rock became the fastest-selling debut in A&M Records' history and the band was proclaimed the "Best New Band" by Metal Edge and Circus magazines. The album's title track was a hit on radio and MTV and remains a staple on VH1 Classic, in addition to the group’s subsequent hits "Tears Of Fire", "Because The Night", "Somebody's Waiting" and "Rock & Roll Outlaw". The group developed a reputation as one of the genre's most entertaining live acts, opening for heavyweights like Bon Jovi, Aerosmith and Van Halen, among many others.   10/14/08 Chicago's Novembers Doom has issued the following statement: "Due to reasons both personal and musical, we regret to announce the departure of drummer Joe Nunez. Joe was an integral part of Novembers Doom for nearly ten years, and while his presence and camaraderie will be missed, unfortunately the time had come to part ways. We wish Joe all the best with whatever personal and musical endeavors he pursues in the future. "We are, however, pleased to announce that we have already secured a new drummer to fill the vacant drum throne. Returning to the band is Sasha Horn, who last recorded with Novembers Doom on the sophomore release, 'Of Sculptured Ivy and Stone Flowers'. Sasha's drumming style fits into the new material perfectly, and with this addition, comes a new dynamic and a step forward in musical progression. "The writing process for our seventh release is well under way, and we will enter the studio in early 2009, for a summer release. The musical direction is a return to the darker feeling of 'The Pale Haunt Departure' while maintaining the aggression from 'The Novella Reservoir' with many new surprises to keep things interesting. The cover art is complete, and we'll unveil it as well as the CD title soon enough." Novembers Doom released its first live DVD, "The Novella Vosselaar: Live in Belgium", on August 5 via The End Records. San Francisco Bay Area metallers Machine Head will serve as main support for Metallica at both Los Angeles shows on December 17 and December 18 at The Forum. They will replace the previously announced main-support act Lamb Of God, who was famously banned from playing the church-owned Forum in 2005 because church leaders were offended by the group's previous name (Burn The Priest). Also appearing on the bill is The Sword. In an April 2005 interview with U-Daily Bulletin, Lamb Of God guitarist Willie Adler stated about the Forum ban, "It is a bit of a letdown, especially since, if they (the church) had done any kind of proper research about us, they would have found that we are no way evil or satanic. It was just a name, that's all. They really had no idea who we are, and I kind of laughed at their closed-mindedness. And taking the good with the bad, by raising such a fuss, they probably turned a lot more people on to us because of it." He added, "The really funny thing is, Obituary [replaced] us [on the Slipknot-headlined show on April 9, 2005 at the Forum], and their music is probably far more evil than their namesake would imply." Speaking to the Los Angeles Times in a February 2005 interview, Marc Little, chief operating officer for the Faithful Central Bible Church's business dealings, stated about the church's decision to cancel the Lamb Of God concert, "This is a building that is owned by a church, and we are sensitive to our congregation and to our obvious religious beliefs. At the same time, we have to balance that with being a business. This is a band that was formerly known as Burn The Priest, so it's a fair assumption that some of the stuff they are singing may be antithetical to our beliefs." Steve Rowe of the Australian Christian metallers Mortification has issued the following update: "It has been a busy time with new drummer Dave Kilgallon here as we rehearse for this week's 'Live Humanitarian' DVD launches in Melbourne and at the Black Stump Festival in Sydney. We have been practising the set list and also beginning pre-production for the new studio album which will be recorded between November and March. The 10 new songs are sounding brutal! "Any day now the Nuclear Blast-released double DVD 'Live Humanitarian' will be in the Soundmass.com store; almost three hours of viewing all things Mortification. DVD 1 features a full production MORTIFICATION live concert in a theatre in Perth, Western Australia. DVD two features two segments at Steve's house, the 19 minute 'EnVision EvAngelene' film from 1996, highlights from the 2007 'Live Humanitarian' European tour and a section about my throwing hobby (seated discus, shot put and javelin). "I recommend that you take the time to view 'At Steve's Place Part 2'. This segment gives a full overview of my musical history: band influences (both Christian and secular), my interests from a young age in classic rock, right through to what metal and rock I am into and why; the entire low-down on all things that make me tick artistically. The musical progressions in Mortification will make sense when you watch this section in particular." Mortification’s thirteenth studio album, Erasing The Goblin was released in 2006 through the Rowe Productions label. The follow-up to 2004's Brain Cleaner was described at the time as "the heaviest project the band has recorded in 10 years" and was said to be "a lot more of a death metal/grind-orientated album but with plenty of power and thrash metal mixed in to keep it interesting and multi-dimensional." Guitarist extraodinaire Michael Amott of Arch Enemy and Carcass has signed on with Dean Guitars. Dean CEO Elliott Rubinson states "I have been a fan of Michael for some time and we are extremely excited that he has decided to make Dean Guitars his home. Michael Amott is a very well respected guitarist worldwide and we look forward to working very closely with him to design his dream guitar." Comments Amott: "I contacted Dean Guitars as I was looking for the right guitar company and I knew that if people like Michael Schenker, Dave Mustaine, Dimebag and Leslie West have made Dean their home that I needed to check it out. They sent me two V's to check out and I immediately fell in love with them. I am sure my new signature guitar will meet all of my demands as well as the needs of my fans around the globe." Amott is currently taking part in a Carcass reunion world tour and will be back on the road with Arch Enemy in December. Be on the lookout for the Michael Amott signature guitar to be unveiled at NAMM 2009. > Due to a recent addition to his family, Dimmu Borgir guitarist Galder (real name: Thomas Rune Andersen) will not be able to join his bandmates on the Blackest Of The Black tour alongside headliners Danzig. States Dimmu guitarist Silenoz (real name: Sven Atle Kopperud): "We have some new, temporary personnel on this tour. We needed an experienced live guitarist and found him in an old friend of mine and Galder: Cyrus of Susperia. We're happy he can step in and don't plan on giving him a hard time on the road." Drumming duties on the Blackest Of The Black tour will be handled by drummer Dariusz "Daray" Brzozowski (ex-Vader). According to Silenoz, fans can perhaps expect a few surprises when it comes to the setlist. Dimmu Borgir’s The Invaluable Darkness DVD is scheduled for North American release on October 14, 2008. German melodic metallers Edguy will be coming back to North America with three headlining shows beginning October 10 and eleven shows through October 27 in support of Kamelot. Edguy's dynamic frontman Tobias Sammet checks in from home about the upcoming trek: "Why should Hollywood fear us walking its unholy streets? You gotta ask Hollywood itself and it will tell you! Or better: What's left of Hollywood after we've played... "For the Edguy tour with Kamelot, we'll mainly focus on older material as the new album ['Tinnitus Sanctus'] is not gonna be released at that point. People wanna come out, have fun, and sing along, so we'll focus on our classic material. Did we choose the set list via democracy or dictatorship? It's kind of both plus the principle of contingency: Every band member writes down his own list of songs he wants to play, we put 'em into a voting box, and then I draw until I got the list I've written. Seriously, it's no big deal. Sometimes we sit backstage an hour before the show and throw song titles back and forth to keep it exciting to ourselves. We don't wanna impress people with complicated or extremely fast stuff… that's childish. We just wanna make 'em have a good time, so the songs should have maximum impact. "There are no onstage collaborations with Kamelot planned so far. I think both bands do extraordinarily well without the other. Can you imagine having a maladjusted peacock like me going on with Kamelot, telling jokes and doing the splits while Roy tries to enchant the audience? Ladies and gentlemen, Kamelot vs. Edguy is the new Clash of the Titans: Symphony versus Giant Crotches - ha, ha. "Clothes are must-haves on my shopping list! I love weird clothes. Hippie shit, stuff that you don't find at your local H&M. There are some stores in Hollywood where I'll enter the door being sure that I'll just look around and walk out having spent twice the advance payment of our next record. And by the way, we are very brave with our new material. It's a very serious kick-ass statement and is certainly gonna be one of our most important steps into the future." Edguy will release its new album, Tinnitus Sanctus, in Europe on November 14 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD, which won't be available in North America until early 2009, was recorded at Gate Studios in Wolfsburg, Germany with producer Sascha Paeth. Swedish/German extreme metallers Arch Enemy will release a new DVD+CD set, "Tyrants Of The Rising Sun: Live In Japan", in Europe on November 24 and in North America on November 25 via Century Media. The DVD contains a live show filmed in Tokyo earlier this year, an in-depth 40 minute road-movie feature, and all promotional videos that have been shot for the band's latest album, "Rise Of The Tyrant". Commented Arch Enemy guitarist Michael Amott: "People are always asking us about Japan and the fans there… It is well known that Arch Enemy has been the most successful extreme metal band in the Japanese market for 10-plus years, so we thought it'd be cool to show the Arch Enemy fans worldwide what it's like when we tour there, this is your backstage pass to Arch Enemy, Nippon style! A lot of people felt that we raised the bar significantly with the quality of the 'Live Apocalypse' DVD — and I agree that was a great DVD, but I believe this monumental experience, [which] we are calling 'Tyrants Of The Rising Sun', filmed totally in High Definition, will leave you floored! With the metal world's #1 producer Andy Sneap mixing the audio and the brilliant Paul Smith editing and directing the visuals, the results are impressive! And Niklas Sundin of Cabin Fever Media bringing in some of the best artwork I've ever seen from him — we have a new DVD that we are very proud to present to our fans!" Tiamat guitarist Thomas Wyreson has announced his decision to leave the long-running Swedish metal group. He explained, "I've made a tough decision to quit the band. My last show with the guys [was] the Zeytinli Rock Fest in Turkey the 16th of August." He added, "Just for the record, there are absolutely no personal problems or anything like that influencing my decision. It's just kinda hard to make everything work with the family etc." Century Media Records has just released The Ark of the Covenant - The Complete Century Media Years, a strictly limited 12 CD + DVD box set from Tiamat. Packaged in a noble solid box with gold foil print, it contains a total of 131 audio tracks, over ten hours playing time plus a 64-page booklet with all lyrics. Includes: * "Prey" * "Clouds" * "Live In Israel" * "Wildhoney" * "Gaia" * "Wildlife" * "A Deeper Kind Of Slumber" * "Skeleton Skeletron" * "Judas Christ" * "The Church Of Tiamat" * "Panopticon" (collection of b-sides, cover versions & rare tracks) * "The Church Of Tiamat" DVD Special Features: * Noble solid box packaging with gold foil print * 64-page lyrics booklet MetalheadTV.com has posted video footage of Tiamat performing at the Artmania Festival 2008, which was held July 18-19 in Sibiu, Romania. Watch the clip below. "Amanethes", the new album from Tiamat, entered the German Media Control chart at position No. 69 and the Swedish chart at No. 13 — Tiamat’s highest-ever chart entry in the band's home country. "Amanethes" was produced by Tiamat mainman Johan Edlund, and was recorded mainly at The Mansion in Greece, with additional recordings taking place at Studio Mega in Sweden and Cue in Greece. The album was mixed and mastered by Siggi Bemm in Woodhouse Studios, Germany in January 2008. The digipack version of Amanethes contains the exclusive bonus track "Thirst Snake". German melodic metal band Brainstorm have announced that they will stay off the road for the remainder of 2008 in order to concentrate on the songwriting process for the group's next album. The band's vocalist, Andy B. Franck, has since issued the following update: "Since the latest news, I received tons of e-mails asking me about my health situation. But no, I'm fine! I could walk on walls these days, hahaha. Because of a difficult family situation, Todde's [guitarist Torsten Ihlenfeld] not able to play any live shows for the next months so we decided to spend the time in our rehearsal room, writing new songs for the next album to be released in the fall 2009! But, of course, we we will play many festivals in the spring and summer 2009 to promote the old shit and some new songs as well. So thanx for all the 'best wishes,' but I'm fine." Brainstorm's latest album, Downburst, registered the following first-week chart positions: Hungary: #15; Germany: #53; Switzerland: #96. Metal Blade in June 2007 released the first-ever Brainstorm DVD, "Honey from the B's (Beasting around the Bush)". The box set was released in digipack format "with special metal effect." The disc entered the Hungarian Music DVD chart at position No. 18. 8/19/08 Following weeks of rumors and speculation, RATT drummer Bobby Blotzer has confirmed that former Quiet Riot guitarist Carlos Cavazo will be joining the group as the replacement for rhythm guitarist John Corabi (former Motley Crue singer). According to Blotzer, "we have been rehearsing with Carlos and it sounds pretty freakin cool. He'll be playing his first show with us in Baton Rouge, Lousiana on August 27. Then New Orleans on August 28; Houston, August 29; Calgary, Canada, August 31. So come on out to the show and rock with us!! Crab [Corabi] has one last show that he's committed to with us on September 5 in Virginia Beach." RATT celebrated the "Year Of The Ratt" with a very special West Coast U.S. run of dates in April. In honor of their Southern California roots, the band embarked on a four-show mini-tour to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the "Ratt" EP. Los Angeles, California's Abysmal Dawn has parted ways with longtime guitarist Jamie Boulanger. According to the band, "Jamie has other priorities that he needs to take care of in his life, including his new baby girl. We wish him the best of luck in all his future endeavors." Boulanger's replacement in Abysmal Dawn is Ian Jekelis of Artisan, who filled in for the band's past two tours. Abysmal Dawn’s Relapse Records debut, Programmed to Consume, came out in May. An e-card for the CD can be accessed at this location. Programmed to Consume was recorded last November with producer John Haddad (Intronaut, Phobia, Eyes Of Fire). Norwegian black metal band Satyricon has set The Age Of Nero as the title of its new album, due on November 3 via Roadrunner Records. The CD was recorded in part at Sound City studios in Van Nuys, California, where Metallica recently recorded its forthcoming LP. A European headlining tour will follow beginning on November 12 in Stavanger, Norway and ending in Hamburg, Germany on December 20. Opening all shows will be up-and-coming UK thrashers Evile. When asked about the involvement of producer Joe Barresi (Tool, Queens Of The Stone Age) in Satyricon’s new CD, the group's vocalist Sigurd "Satyr" Wongraven recently told Norway's VG newspaper, "Joe has been a technician on practically the whole project. There might have been some misunderstandings in the Norwegian media about his role — it is me who is the producer; Joe's role is to know which buttons to push to create the sound that I want." Speaking about the first time he played the new album for Roadrunner, Satyr said, "I had nothing to say to them. I just played the album loud, and thought that if they they don't like it, it's their problem. I am so sure about what we have done this time that I don't think about changing a single thing. The door is closed, and we are so much on the right path, that we are not turning eiher left or right on this. But they thought it was really good." Satyricon will support Cradle Of Filth on a North American tour in January/February. Guitarist Christer "Krunt" Andersson of Swedish metallers Tad Morose has commented on the band's current status via the following posting at the band's official forum: "We are proud to announce the new lineup! After a few years with various problems it feels great that we now are a working band again! Things just didn't work out the way we wanted with Joe Comeau [ex-Overkill, Annhilator, Liege Lord. He is an excellent singer and a very nice guy, but it just didn't work out for us in the long run. We only did three shows and recorded a two-track demo with him. We wish him all the best! "The new singer is Ronny Hemlin (Steel Attack). Ronny is a very, very good singer and fits perfect! Check out his work with Steel Attack and you will know what I mean. "The new bass player is Tommi Karpanen (ex-Morgana Lefay), a long time friend who also play bass in Sefer Jezirah and guitar in God Awful Machine. "We are busy getting that album together and also rehearsing some old songs because we want to play live! So it might be that we will do some shows even [though] we don't have a new album out." Comeau joined Tad Morose in March 2006 as the replacement for Urban Breed, who left the band in December 2005. Former Limp Bizkit/current Black Light Burns member Wes Borland has joined Marilyn Manson as the group's new guitarist. The news was announced by Manson himself at a press conference earlier today ahead of his band's appearance tomorrow (Friday, August 15) at the ETP Festival in Seoul, Korea. Manson said, "We have a new guitar player that's gonna play for the first time tomorrow; it's the first time we'll play on stage [together]. His name is Wes Borland and he used to be in a really terrible band that he left because he felt that it was a destructive force in art, and he has his own band, Black Light Burns, but now he is in Marilyn Manson. We don't know how permanent that is, but starting tomorrow will be the first step. So this will be the most indestructible Marilyn Manson." Guitarist/vocalist Kurt Bachman of the reactivated late '80s/early '90s technical-thrash metal band Believer has posted the following message on the group's MySpace page: "Everything is going great with the [recording of the new Believer] record. We just recorded some amazing guest guitar solos from Joe Rico (SACRIFICE) and Rocky Gray (Evanescence, Soul Embraced, Living Sacrifice) with some other guests on the way (not too many though). We hope to also have some label info and a release date to you very soon, so stand-by... "Thanks again to all of you who are talking this up and keeping the buzz alive. Also, thank you for your patience. We just want it to sound amazing when you finally hear it!" Regarding what fans can expect to hear from Believer’s first studio album in 15 years, Bachman previously said, "Will it sound like 'Extraction from Mortality' [1989], 'Sanity Obscure' [1990], 'Dimensions' [1993]? Well, we think you'll hear a splash of each, but we didn't set out to just rehash the old. That would be boring and offer nothing new for you to hear. With that said (and I will remind you again once the release date draws closer), if you don't expect a total rewrite of the past then we think you'll be pleasantly surprised." Believer’s albums Extraction from Mortality (1989), Sanity Obscure (1990) and Dimensions (1993) were made available on November 5 via Poland's Metal Mind Productions in a new digipak edition on golden disc, digitally remastered using 24-bit technology and limited to 2,000 numbered copies. Legendary vocalist Jeff Scott Soto (Talisman, Journey, Yngwie Malmsteen) will sing on the upcoming Trans-Siberian Orchestra winter tour beginning November 1. Jeff will be part of the West Coast production (as TSO is split in two). According to Jeff's official newsletter, "Jeff is thrilled to be part of this tour as it is an introduction to future appearances with TSO, including the new album Night Castle." Trans-Siberian Orchestra is a rock orchestra founded in 1996 by Paul O'Neill, Robert Kinkel, and Jon Oliva (Savatage). The band's musical style is often described in different terms, incorporating progressive rock, symphonic metal, and heavy metal, with influences from classical music. For a list of dates, click here. In Flames, All That Remains, 36 Crazyfists and Gojira will reportedly team up for a North American tour in November/December. Exact cities and dates will be announced soon. In Flames will embark on a European headlining tour in October. Support on the trek will come from Sonic Syndicate and Gojira. The band’s new album, A Sense of Purpose, shifted 20,000 copies in the United States during its first week of release. This is slightly less than the opening tally of Come Clarity (Ferret), which sold just under 24,000 copies in February 2006 to debut at position No. 58. All That Remains has unveiled the new track, "Chiron", from the band's forthcoming album "Overcome", at its MySpace page. The group shot a video for the song earlier this summer in Los Angeles with director Brian Thompson (As I Lay Dying, Killswitch Engage, Angels and Airwaves) and The Vault LA. All That Remains is currently out on the road as part of this year's Vans Warped Tour.     6/21/08 Judas Priest's forthcoming double-disc concept album, Nostradamus, is available for streaming in its entirety on VH1.com's The Leak. Nostradamus is scheduled for release via Columbia Records on Monday, June 16 in Europe, and a day later in the U.S. on Epic Records. Long in the works, Nostradamus takes epic storytelling to a whole new level, as it recounts the life of this mysterious, world-known 16th century French prophet. Some of the events that Nostradamus experts have interpreted as his predictions include the great fire of London in 1666, the rise of Adolf Hitler, and most recently, 9-11, among countless other renowned events. As with all new Priest releases, the group — singer Rob Halford, guitarists Glenn Tipton and K.K. Downing, bassist Ian Hill, and drummer Scott Travis — will embark on a mammoth worldwide tour in support of Nostradamus. Judas Priest will guest on the nationally syndicated radio show "Rockline", hosted by Bob Coburn, on Monday, July 21 at 11:30 p.m. EST/8:30 p.m. PST. Fans can talk live with Judas Priest by calling 800-344-ROCK (7625). To find a station near you or to listen to the show live via the Internet, go to www.rocklineradio.com. Metallica has announced the title of its new album — Death Magnetic — by posting the finalized/complete version of the image that originally appeared on the band's official web site on Tuesday (June 10) under the headline "???." The CD is due out in September. A short video clip revealing the new album title and featuring an audio sample of a brand new song can be viewed below. Just one day after several UK web sites posted early reviews of six new Metallica songs that were previewed for them in London in early June, the reports were all taken down, reportedly at the request of the band's management. Metallica has since issued a statement blaming a management "error" for the move and has apparently asked for the reviews to be re-posted. Metallica performed a "secret" show Thursday night (June 12) at The Basement in Nashville, Tennessee in front of an estimated 175 people. The band played Tennessee's Bonnaroo festival Friday (June 13) and is scheduled to perform at the one-day Ozzfest in Dallas on August 9, with a full North American tour in the works for the fall. Latest image displayed via Metallica.com The previously announced U.S. tour featuring Cinderella, Warrant, Lynch Mob and Lynam has been cancelled. The official statement from Cinderella's manager, Tim Heyne of Union Entertainment Group, Inc., reads as follows: "It's with unbelievably deep regret that I must announce that Cinderella's Tom Keifer's left vocal cord has hemorrhaged, thereby making it impossible for him to sing in the immediate future. "Tom felt his throat give way last night (June 11) finishing the set in pre-production rehearsals, went to his vocal doctor (Dr. Stephen Mitchell) in Nashville this morning, and was told the grim news. In the short term, Tom's doctor told him it would be two to three weeks before the swelling and damage would recede to a point to where an assessment can be made as to whether surgery will be required. "Consequently, and again, most regretfully, we have no choice but to postpone the upcoming Cinderella tour until such time as Tom is ready tour again." Tickets will be refunded at points of purchase. The reunited classic lineup of '80s hard rockers Warrant — whose tour with Cinderella, Lynch Mob and Lynam was recently cancelled — will play the following dates this summer: Jun. 22 - Montreal QC - Parc Jean Drapeau (Heavy MTL) Jun. 23 - Toronto ON - Phoenix Concert Theatre Jun. 28 - El Paso, TX - Street Festival Jul. 05 - Henderson, NV - Sunset Station Casino Jul. 12 - Pryor OK - Rocklahoma Jul. 16 - Dallas TX - House of Blues Aug. 16 - Winter Park CO - Hawgfest Aug. 17 - Tower MN - Fortune Bay Casino (w/ Alice Cooper) For the first time since 1994, original Warrant members Jani Lane (vocals), Joey Allen (lead guitar), Jerry Dixon (bass), Erik Turner (guitar) and Steven Sweet (drums) will grace stages across the land together. They'll deliver a brand new and exciting stage show encompassing material from their first two multi-platinum albums "Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich" and "Cherry Pie", plus the gold album "Dog Eat Dog", including such unforgettable hits as "Cherry Pie", "Down Boys", "Heaven", "Sometimes She Cries", "Uncle Tom's Cabin" and many more. "Are you kidding me?!! We are chomping at the bit to get out this summer and rock!" says Jani Lane, lead singer and songwriter of Warrant. "The original Warrant has mucho grande chemistry! When we did the first rehearsal in 14 years I just stepped back in awe and thought...'Man, now this is Warrant!!' I think fans will have a similar experience this summer!!'" Former Slaves On Dope vocalist Jason Rockman has resurfaced in a new band called Step 13. The group, whose music is described by Rockman as "no-holds-barred brutal metal for sober motherfuckers," will release its initial recordings through a MySpace page, and tracks will be made available monthly absolutely free of charge. Jason says, "Any fans of [Slaves On Dope’s] Inches from the Mainline record [2000] will love this stuff." Slaves On Dope’s Inches from the Mainline album was released through Ozzy Osbourne's now-defunct Divine Recordings label. After Divine Recordings lost its distribution deal with EMI's Priority Records, the band was left without a label. After a long search, a deal was struck with Bieler Bros. Records. Slaves On Dope’s second major album, "Metafour", was released in 2003. In March 2004, Slaves On Dope announced it was going on hiatus due to Jason Rockman leaving the band. Massachusetts metallers Unearth have begun work the follow-up to 2006's III: In the Eyes of Fire, tentatively due in October via Metal Blade Records. The bulk of the CD's instrumental tracks are being recorded at Massachusetts' System Recording Studios with producer Adam Dutkiewicz (Killswitch Engage guitarist), while the album's drum tracks are being laid to tape by drummer Derek Kerswill (Kingdom Of Sorrow, Seemless) at Zing Studios. The as-yet-untitled record is said to feature the band's "most dynamic material to date," combining strong tension and release, abundant guitar solos and a bulldozing power-groove. "HEAVY METAL SHRED MAYHEM! NOW WITH 50% MORE GUITAR SOLOS!! If the new Unearth songs were laundry detergent, then this is what it would say on the box," dishes Unearth lead guitarist Buz McGrath. "Fortunately for all you metal maniacs, it's not laundry soap but a mind-blowing journey consisting of epic mosh and shred, so we had to call in the one man who could wrangle such a massive beast — Adam Dutkiewicz. We are very excited to be working with him again and between 40 oz. chugging and doing burn-outs in Ken's '82 Corvette; we are recording what will definitely be the best album of our career." A "teaser" look at Unearth working in the studio can be accessed via the band's MySpace page at this location. Additional looks at the recording of the album, including fly-on-the-wall video footage, riffs and excerpts of new music will be made available in the coming weeks. Former Judas Priest/Iced Earth singer Tim "Ripper" Owens has now officially joined Yngwie Malmsteen's band. The legendary Swedish guitarist announced the news to the Guitar World staff today when he came to the magazine's New York headquarters for an exclusive interview and photo shoot. Malmsteen and Owens are hard at work on a new CD, which is currently scheduled for a July release. Owens and Malmsteen previously collaborated on a cover of Ozzy Osbourne's "Mr. Crowley", which appeared on the Flying High Again: The World's Greatest Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne, released in March 2006 via Magick Records. Listen to the track on YouTube. Owens recently worked with Queensryche guitarist Michael Wilton on demo recordings for the new Soulbender album (Wilton's side project). One of the demo cuts can currently be heard on the Soulbender MySpace page. Owens's predecessor, Doogie White, was a member of Yngwie Malmsteen's band for six and a half years. Doogie joined Malmsteen's band in September 2001 and recorded two albums with the legendary Swedish guitarist: Attack (2002) and Unleash the Fury (2005). "I had a long chat with Yngwie today and it is clear that he wants to move musically in a new direction," Doogie said in a statement that was released to BLABBERMOUTH.NET. "It's great news that he will be expanding on his undoubted talents both as a writer and guitarist. I just want to thank, publicly, Yngwie and the many band members past and present that I have worked with. It seems appropriate that we started our working relationship in South America in September 2001 and finished in South America in December 2007. Now, anyone need a singer??" "Freddie Vidales from San Antonio, Texas has been selected to pound the pavement (and a few eardrums) on the road with Iced Earth in 2008 as the band's new bass player. Prior to joining Iced Earth, Freddie was the bassist and frontman for 10 years in his own band called Infusion. Freddie has been influenced by bands such as Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Death, King Diamond, and of course, Iced Earth. You can hear and see Freddie covering tracks from a few of the bands above not only on bass, but also guitar at his personal MySpace page." Commented Iced Earth mainman Jon Schaffer: "I feel like Freddie is the right guy for the gig. He has the chops, the attitude, and from the videos I've seen, a commanding, energetic, and intense stage presence that will fit in nicely with what Iced Earth has always strived to be. I had a strong feeling about him based on the material that he sent and our phone discussions, so I asked him to fly up here before the slated auditions were to commence later in the month. After meeting Freddie in person and watching him play up close and personal, I didn't feel the need to continue the search. He's going to fit right in. We welcome him on board and look forward to jamming together at our first gig at Chicago Powerfest on May 2! "Finally, I would like to personally thank everyone who auditioned for the position, and I wish you the best in your future endeavors!"   4/12/08 Swedish melodic death metal pioneers Dark Tranquillity are excited to be making their much anticipated return to North America in May with what could well be hailed as one of the best guitar-shredder packages of the year. This tour, presented by ESP Guitars, Randall Amps, Guitar World and Revolver magazine, dubbed "Tyranny and Bloodshred 2008", kicks off on May 9 and features headliners Arch Enemy and the awesome, yet diverse talents of Divine Heresy and Firewind. Upon completing this tour the band will continue on headlining a slew of additional dates with Divine Heresy and FIREWIND supporting. This tour completes their worldwide touring cycle for "Fiction", an album that revitalized the genre they helped create and further cemented their status as one of the genre's most influential bands. Niklas Sundin (guitars) states: "We're very pleased to let our growing hordes of U.S. fans know that we'll once again return to your shores to serve you in metal. Starting in the beginning of May, we'll head out as main support for our long-time buddies in Arch Enemy. It'll be a powerful and diverse package that will satisfy everyone." Visit www.myspace.com/darktranquillity to view the complete tour itinerary. Burzum, the now-defunct band led by Varg Vikernes (a.k.a. Count Grishnackh) — who is currently serving a 21-year Norwegian prison term for the August 1993 murder of MAYHEM guitarist Oystein Aarseth (a.k.a. Euronymous) — will release Anthology in the U.S. on May 13 via Candlelight Records. According to a press release, "this one-man band retains a vital roll in the early development of Norway's famed black metal scene. His contributions to what was once merely a small circle of friends grew to immense popularity, the genre now having sold hundreds of thousands of records around the globe. Compared to his peers — Mayhem, Darkthrone, Gorgoroth, Immortal — Burzum possessed a very distinct sound. Using ancient mythology as his lyrical muse (the very name Burzum coming from J.R.R. Tolkien's 'Lord of the Rings'), he became known for fearless experimentation; each record expanding on previous efforts. Anthology is a special first-time collection of material that spans the musician's ten-plus year recording legacy; most unfortunately still unavailable for U.S. fans (other than pricey imports). Featuring selections from each of his six albums (and including one from his popular EP 'Aske'), 'Anthology' is anticipated to be a highly sought-after recording for long-time fans and those curious newcomers who up-til-now only knew of the name and not had opportunity to bear witness to the musician's blackened fruit." 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. Watershed was recorded at Fascination Street Studios in Örebro, Sweden between November 1 and December 13, 2007. Some additional recordings were done between January 3 and January 7. The album was produced by Jens Bogren and Mikael Åkerfeldt. Says Mikael Åkerfeldt: "I've worked so hard with these songs for quite some time now, I've listened to 'em a zillion times. I don't hate them just yet! The album sounds great sonically and I think I can hear us evolving as the record plays on. It is taking us somewhere musically and I don't know where. It's very exciting to say the least! I can't remember having enjoyed a recording this much ever before." Swedish metallers Scar Symmetry will release their third CD, Holographic Universe, on June 20 via Nuclear Blast Records. Check out the cover artwork at this location. Holographic Universe track listing: 01. Morphogenesis (3:54) 02. Timewave Zero (5:13) 03. Quantumleaper (4:09) 04. Artificial Sun Projection (4:00) 05. The Missing Coordinates (4:37) 06. Ghost Prototype I (Measurement of Thought) (4:35) 07. Fear Catalyst (5:03) 08. Trapezoid (4:17) 09. Prism and Gate (3:46) 10. Holographic Universe (9:05) 11. The Three-Dimensional Shadow (3:57) 12. Ghost Prototype II (Deus Ex Machina) (6:03) Finntroll have released their itinerary for their upcoming North American tour, which will take place in August/September. Support on the trek will come from Warbringer. Confirmed dates are as follows: Aug. 22 - Springfield, VA @ Jaxx Aug. 23 - Philadelphia, PA @ The Trocadero Aug. 24 – New York, NY @ BB King Blues Club & Grill Aug. 25 - Cambridge, MA @ Middle East Aug. 26 - Montreal, QUE @ Club Soda Aug. 27 - Quebec City, QUE @ Imperial Aug. 28 - Toronto, ON @ Opera House Aug. 29 - Cleveland, OH @ Peabody's Down Under Aug. 30 - Mokena, IL @ Pearl Room Aug. 31 - Minneapolis, MN @ Triple Rock Social Club Sep. 01 - Winnipeg, MB @ Garrick Centre Sep. 02 - Regina, SK @ The Exchange Sep. 03 - Calgary, AB @ Warehouse Sep. 04 - Edmonton, AB @ Starlite Room Sep. 06 - Victoria, BC @ Sugar Sep. 07 - Vancouver, BC @ Plaza Club Sep. 08 - Seattle, WA @ El Corazon Sep. 09 - Portland, OR @ Hawthorne Theater Sep. 10 – San Francisco, CA @ Slim's Sep. 11 - West Hollywood, CA @ House Of Blues Sep. 12 - San Marcos, CA @ Jumping Turtle Tickets are on sale now exclusively through EnterTheVault.com until May 3 at which point they will be made available through all normal ticketing systems. Finntroll’s fifth album, Ur Jordens Djup, entered the German Media Control chart at position No. 91. The CD, which was recorded by Nino Laurenne at Sonic Pump studios in Helsinki, is the group's first release with frontman Mathias Lillmåns (a.k.a. Vreth) following the departure of Tapio Wilska (Sethian, ex-Wizzard, former session vocalist for Nightwish) in January 2006. Like Finntroll’s original singer, Katla Mathias, Lillmåns is reportedly Fenno-Swedish, with Swedish as his mother tongue. According to The Associated Press, the reunited Stone Temple Pilots on Monday (April 7) revealed the details of their 65-city tour, set to begin May 17 in Columbus, Ohio. As previously announced, the trek will kick off with a headlining appearance at the Rock on the Range festival in Columbus, Ohio. [The exact cities and dates will be released shortly.] "The story's not finished," singer Scott Weiland told The Associated Press. "There's more to be revealed and more to be told." Guitarist Dean DeLeo said the band plans to record a new album after the tour, which is set to wrap in November. The Grammy-winning rockers celebrated their announcement with a private show in the Hollywood Hills. The band will make its first national TV appearance since reuniting on the May 1 edition of ABC-TV's "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" Weiland was dismissed from Velvet Revolver last week, following his announcement that the group's just-completed European tour was its last and accusations of erratic behavior against him by the rest of the group. Swedish "viking metallers" Thyrfing have issued the following update: "This weekend we started the recordings of the sixth album! The album will be co-produced by Thyrfing and Jörgen Svensson of Tyroon Production. The recordings and mixing will take place between April and June and the album is scheduled for release through Regain Records in October. Stay tuned for some visual and textual reports and other shite from the workshop!" Thyrfing last year announced the addition of Jens Rydén as the band's new vocalist. Jens is best known as founding member and ex-vocalist of Naglfar and for his one-man army Profound. Thyrfing’s fifth album, Farsotstider (in English: "Times of Plague"), was released in November 2005 via Regain Records. The follow-up to 2002's "Vansinnesvisor" (Hammerheart Records) was recorded at EMI Studio in Stockholm with producer Henrik Edenhed (Lambretta, The Sounds). Maiden Hollywood has announced the launch of its official web site to promote the Reach for the Star Project, an independent campaign designed to raise the $25,000 sponsorship fee required by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to nominate British heavy metal band Iron Maiden for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Maiden Hollywood is currently seeking donations to achieve its fund-raising objectives to forever immortalize Iron Maiden on Hollywood Boulevard. "Maiden Hollywood is a grassroots campaign initiated by Iron Maiden fans, not the establishment in the entertainment industry," said Maiden Hollywood Founder and President Cindy Santos. "The ultimate mission is to make sure that Iron Maiden is recognized for their significant contribution to music and their influence on music." Nearly 30 years after the release of its first album, Iron Maiden continues to dominate the heavy metal world as it defies corporate influences and popular music trends. Despite their lack of exposure on American radio stations and other corporate music outlets, they have sold millions of albums and command legions of loyal fans throughout the world. Incorporated on March 7, 2008, Maiden Hollywood is a non-profit corporation based in Irvine, California. For more information, visit MaidenHollywood.org. Swedish doom metal merchants Candlemass are preparing to embark on what is sure to be one of the biggest events in metal in 2008... their first U.S. tour in 17 years! This is will also mark the bands first time performing in the States with vocalist and Texas native Robert Lowe, also of Solitude Aeturnus. Commented Candlemass bassist and founding member Leif Edling: "Last time we were over was in 1991 and that's way too long! We wanna make this tour a very special event for all our fans in the States and all new American fans of doom and metal too. It will be great to meet up and hang out, and play all the classic C-MASS songs for you guys plus some new ones of course. We've been waiting 17 years for this so make sure you don't miss this opportunity to catch the Kings of Doom in your hometown! See ya soon in a city near you!" Candlemass with Daylight Dies: May 19 - Springfield, VA - Jaxx May 20 - New York, NY - B.B. King Blues Club May 22 - Sayreville, NJ - Starland Ballroom May 23 - Cleveland, OH - Peabody's May 24 - Mokena, IL - The Pearl Room May 25 - St Paul, MN - Station 4 May 28 - Seattle, WA - Studio Seven May 29 - Portland, OR - Hawthorne Theatre May 30 - San Francisco, CA - Slim's May 31 - Santa Ana, CA - Galaxy Theater June 01 - West Hollywood, CA - Whisky A-Go-Go June 03 - Phoenix, AZ - Brickhouse June 04 - Albuquerque, NM - Launchpad June 05 - San Antonio, TXScout Bar June 06 - Houston, TX - Scout Bar June 07 - Fort Worth, TX - Ridglea Theater June 08 - Nashville, TN - The Muse Candlemass new album, King of the Grey Islands, was released June 22, 2007 via Nuclear Blast Records. The group's guitarist, Mats "Mappe" Björkman, was recently sentenced to two years in prison for grand theft. The musician was convicted of stealing CDs worth approximately $490,000 from the distribution warehouse of Entertainment Network Scandinavia AB, where he and an accomplice shipped the CDs to Stockholm retail outlets. Björkman's conviction is not expected to affect his participation in the upcoming tour. Back in the mid-'80s, when rock 'n' roll was still on everybody’s lips, dozens of bands tried to become "the next best thing" of the music industry. Although many have tried, only few succeeded to carve their names into rock history. Among them are Black 'N Blue, a band that never got the proper acclaim for their work, but over the years proved that good music will always defend itself. Poland's Metal Mind Productions will re-release Black 'N Blue’s album Rarities, on May 5 in Europe. The limited-edition digipack title (limited to 2,000 copies) will be made available on golden disc, digitally remastered using 24-bit technology. According to a press release, Rarities is "a peep inside the closed doors of the group's history, revealing a unique collection of rare and previously unreleased songs.’Rarities' remains a true treasure chest for all of Black 'N Blue’s fans, with a portion of melodic pop-rock enough to satisfy even the most demanding enthusiasts of the genre. This album will get you on a night train straight to the '80s — so fasten up and enjoy the ride!" Former Stratovarius mastermind Timo Tolkki's new project Revolution Renaissance will release its debut album, New Era, 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). In the latest issue of Finland's Soundi magazine, Tolkki states about the CD, "The [Revolution Renaissance album] contains more or less 'Visions'-style [Stratovarius’ acclaimed 1997 release] power metal. Michael Kiske, Pasi Rantanen, Mirka Rantanen, Pasi Heikkilä and Tobias Sammet have recorded their parts. But if there are any live performances, the lineup won't be the same. I have been thinking of asking Jens [Johansson, Stratovarius keyboardist] and Lauri [Porra, Stratovarius bassist] to join me for this." Regarding the band's name, Timo says, "On the album, there's one song with this title, and Frontiers suggested it to be the band's name too. I thought it was good idea." When asked if he will perform any Stratovarius songs with Revolution Renaissance, Tolkki replies, "Well, what do you think? Of course. I can play my songs with whomever I want." 3/5/08 Circle II Circle, the band led by ex-Savatage singer Zak Stevens, will release its new album, Delusions of Grandeur, 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. Check out the cover artwork at HeavyLaw.com. 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. Circle II Circle, Jon Oliva's Pain and Manticora will team up for the first leg of the North American “Global Intrusions” tour this fall. This marks the first time that Jon Oliva (Jon Oliva's Pain, Savatage, Trans-Siberian Orchestra) and Zak Stevens (Circle II Circle, ex-Savatage) have toured together since their days in Savatage in 1999. Commented Stevens: "It's always special to perform on the same bill with Jon Oliva, especially here in the States! Obviously, Jon has been a huge influence on my musical career and I remain one of his biggest fans. This tour will be a special event for all our fans that have enjoyed our work throughout the Savatage years and now into the new generation of Jon Oliva's Pain and Circle II Circle music." The band's last album, Burden of Truth, was released in October 2006 via AFM Records. Canadian metal band Kittie has announced the departure of bassist Trish Doan. Doan has been diagnosed with the eating disorder anorexia-athletica-nervosa, which she developed during the recording of Kittie's Funeral For Yesterday, Doan's first release with the group. "It breaks my heart to say goodbye to this family that has given me the best two years of my life," Doan said. “I wish my time with Kittie did not have to end, but this decision was made based on doctors' orders. Unfortunately this is the only option that will allow for my full recovery." Doan has been battling the disease for nearly two years. "Trish is a part of our family and her talents and friendship will be missed by all of us," said Tara McLeod and sisters Mercedes and Morgan Lander. "We are continuing to be respectful and supportive of Trish's needs during her period of healing. We wish her the best on her road to recovery and will remain close to her throughout this difficult time." A new two-disc edition of Opeth’s Still Life album will be released on March 31 via Peaceville Records. The set features a remastered stereo mix of the album on CD, plus a DVD with a new 5.1 Surround Sound mix and performance footage of "Face Of Melinda" filmed live in London. The artwork has been re-worked by original designer Travis Smith. Still Life was Opeth’s first outing for Peaceville. Like My Arms, Your Hearse before it, Still Life was originally recorded under the watchful eye of engineer Fredrik Nordström at Gothenburg's Studio Fredman and Maestro Musik and has now been remastered and remixed by Jens Borgen. A special mini-site for the release can be accessed at this location. Opeth has set Watershed as the title of the band's 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 Åkerfeldt and Jens Bogren, is a masterwork that follows the time-honored Opeth tradition; it’s modern yet timeless, progressive yet paying homage to the sounds of classic rock. German power metallers Primal Fear, who yesterday announced that guitarist Stefan Leibing was leaving the band in order to focus on family life, have issued the following update: "We've decided to continue with one of the most exciting and respected guitar player in the business — Magnus Karlsson from Sweden. Magnus is known from his excellent work as a guitarist, songwriter and producer for Allen/Lande, Magnum's Bob Catley, Starbreaker and many more. We're looking forward to hit the road again with a special best-of setlist and Magnus will be an additional attraction for the shows. It looks like we're planning to get back into the recording studio after the summer festival season to work on a new album!" Primal Fear singer Ralf Scheepers comments: "After working together with Magnus on several songs for our previous albums 'Seven Seals' and 'New Religion', it's more than a pleasure to have him in the band now. In my ears he is one of the most talented guitarists on this planet and he is also an excellent composer. I absolutely look forward to rock the stages of this world with him!" Magnus Karlsson added: "I've been a big fan of Primal Fear since I first heard them. I love their straight-forward metal in combination with beautiful melodies and a world-class musicianship. That's why I'm both honored and excited to join Primal Fear on their mission to show the world that metal is forever!" Stefan Leibing's final performance with the band will take place on April 26 at the 10th anniversary concert in Reichenbach at H2O. Says the band, "[Stefan] will be on stage for some special songs, including a meet-and-greet. This will be a very emotional and unique moment for us all!" Legendary hard rockers King'S X have changed the projected title of their new album to XV from the previously announced "Go Tell Somebody". The CD will be released through InsideOut Music on the following dates: U.S.: May 20 Germany, Austria, Switzerland: May 16 Rest of Europe: May 19 XV was recorded and mixed at Wireworld Studios in Nashville, Tennessee with producer Michael Wagener (Skid Row, Alice Cooper). This is the second King's X album in a row with Wagener manning the boards. Pleased with the results of 2005's Ogre Tones, the band headed into the studio more prepared and creative than ever before. "We really enjoyed working with him on the last album," guitarist Ty Tabor said shortly before entering the studio to record the new CD. "There was no pre-production on anything and we were pleased with how it turned out. This time, we're doing some pre-production, some writing together and we're going to try to outdo ourselves. We're going in this time with a complete and prepared attack." Pagan's Mind guitarist Jorn Viggo Lofstad revealed during a recent interview with Antenna.nu that he is currently "writing some songs" with After Forever singer Floor Jansen. However, Lofstad was quick to point out that Pagan's Mind was still his "main priority." Pagan's Mind's latest album, God's Equation, last fall entered the Norwegian domestic chart (featuring only Norwegian artists) at position No. 14. It also landed on the international chart (featuring all artists) at No. 35. The CD was recorded by Espen Mjøen at his Mediamaker Studio in Skien, Norway, and mixed at Toy Town Studios in Stockholm by Stefan Glaumann (Rammstein). After Forever recently announced that it will take a break from band activities for most of 2008 while the group's guitarist, Sander Gommans, undergoes medical tests after suffering a seizure last November. According to a posting on her official web site, Jansen is currently offering singing and performance lessons in her native Holland, both individual and in groups of no more than 10 people. Lessons are available to beginners and experienced vocalists. For more information (in Dutch), visit www.floorjansen.nl. Nevermore vocalist Warrel Dane has posted a solo track, entitled "Messenger", on his MySpace page page. The song — which features a guest appearance by Nevermore guitarist Jeff Loomis — comes off Dane's inaugural solo effort, "Praises to the War Machine", which will be released in North America on May 13 (April 28 in Europe) via Century Media Records. Dane, who first shattered the boundaries of conventionality with the legendary Sanctuary and Nevermore, proves that he is one of metal's most diverse frontmen with this solo effort as he unleashes a barrage of introspective and personal lyrics that are heartfelt and extremely powerful. All of this emotion backed with his soaring angelic and dynamic vocals provides all of the necessary elements for a savagely captivating, melodic assault that quickly hooks you in. This exhilarating new offering begins a new chapter for Dane and will soon further solidify his spot as one of the genre's most influential artists. Before beginning this new venture, Dane went out and surrounded himself with some of the best musicians that he could find. This search ultimately resulted in landing the renowned Peter Wichers (ex- Soilwork) on guitars and bass, Dirk Verbeuren (Soilwork) on drums and Matt Wicklund (ex-Himsa) on guitars. The effort was also recorded and mixed by Wichers (co-producer of Soilwork). Legendary Chicago doomsters Trouble are booking dates for a West Coast tour beginning on May 1 in Las Vegas with a worldwide live Internet broadcast from the Deep Rock Drive studios. The band will be touring in support of its newest release, "Simple Mind Condition", which is scheduled to receive its long-awaited U.S. release in April on the Escapi Music label. The follow-up to 1995's Plastic Green Head, Simple Mind Condition was produced by Vinny Wojno (Kreator, Machine Head) and features vocalist Eric Wagner, guitarists Rick Wartell and Bruce Franklin, drummer Jeff Olson and bassist Chuck Robinson (formerly of This Tortured Soul). Escapi Music reissued Trouble’s classic first two albums, Psalm 9 (1984) and The Skull (1985), on October 24, 2006. Both were digitally remastered and are packed with rare photos and brand new liner notes. Psalm 9 includes an extremely rare exclusive bonus DVD of a public-access TV performance from 1982. The Skull comes with an extremely rare exclusive bonus DVD of a 16-track live performance from 1984. The reunited Warrant (featuring lead singer Jani Lane) and Cinderella will team up for a U.S. tour in July/August. The two bands are rumored to be performing at the Rock Fest in Cadott, Wisconsin on July 17. Additional dates are expected to be announced soon. Warrant's latest album, Born Again, was released last year on Deadline Music. It was the group's CD to feature singer Jaime St. James of Black 'N Blue. According to The Pulse of Radio, Sevendust will hit the road this spring with Saliva. Dates and venues for the trek will be announced in the weeks ahead. Saliva is currently in the midst of a trek with Drowning Pool, while Sevendust has yet to announce any tour dates on its own. Sevendust recently pulled out of its participation in this summer's inaugural Rockstar Energy Mayhem Tour, indicating in a statement that it canceled its involvement "due to changes in (the group's) touring schedule." The Rockstar Energy Mayhem Tour, featuring headliners Disturbed and Slipknot, is scheduled to kick off on July 9 in Seattle and will hit 30 North American cities. Sevendust will release its new album, Chapter VII: Hope & Sorrow, on April 1. The first single is called "Prodigal Son", while the disc features guest appearances from Chris Daughtry and members of Alter Bridge. Los Angeles based extreme metallers Abysmal Dawn have revealed the final artwork and track listing for their Relapse Records debut, Programmed to Consume. The cover by Pär Olofsson (Psycroptic, Winds Of Plague) can be viewed at this location can now be viewed at the band's MySpace page. Programmed to Consume track listing: 01. Programmed to Consume 02. Compulsory Resurrection 03. Twilight's Fallen 04. Grotesque Modern Art 05. A Remission of Life 06. The Descent 07. Aeon Aomegas 08. Cease to Comprehend 09. Walk the Path of Fire Abysmal Dawn recently posted two new songs — Programmed to Consume and "Compulsory Resurrection" — on its MySpace page. Abysmal Dawn's forthcoming sophomore album was produced by John Haddad (Intronaut, Phobia, Eyes Of Fire). Programmed to Consume is set for release on May 13 (North America) and May 17 (rest of world) via Relapse Records. Commented Abysmal Dawn's Charles Elliott: "I'm very confident that these are the sickest vocals I've put to tape yet! We even had our friend Jacob from Reciprocal come in and do some guest vocals on the track 'Twilight's Fallen'. Some very sick sounds will meet all your ears soon indeed! Everyone played their hearts out on this album and I think you can feel the intensity in all our performances. Quite frankly, we feel this album is Abysmal Dawn's best yet and will destroy 'From Ashes' by far! Maybe it's just us though, so we'll let you be the judge."   2/31/08 The cover artwork for Whitesnake's new album, Good to be Bad, can be viewed at this location. Due at the end of April in Europe via SPV/Steamhammer, the legendary hard rock band's first studio album in a decade features "11 new, slamming Whitesnake songs which are guaranteed to take their place alongside their multi-million selling catalog," according to a press release. Commented frontman David Coverdale: "The new album contains all the elements I enjoy about Whitesnake, and more. I can hear moments that take me back to the bluesy, early years of the band all the way through the band's musical history to fully embrace the more electric aspects of where we are now, as a band. I'm thrilled with it and can hardly wait to unleash it on an unsuspecting public! If this is indeed the last Whitesnake studio record, then I'm happy to finish like this. It was a labor of love making this record...a joy... and I'm still enjoying listening to it. Can't be bad!" The new songs, written by Coverdale and guitarist Doug Aldrich (who also co-produced the album with Coverdale and Michael McIntyre) provide a good balance of eight rocking tracks and three ballads. Coverdale feels it's the first "real" Whitesnake album in almost 20 years, commenting "It's very butch. Very muscular..." "Good to be Bad" track listing: 01. Call On Me 02. Can You Hear The Wind Blow? 03. Best Years 04. All I Want All I Need 05. Good To Be Bad 06. All For Love 07. Summer Rain 08. Lay Down Your Love 09. A Fool In Love 10. Got What You Need 11. 'Till The End Of Time Legendary Little Rock, Arkansas-based Christian death/thrash/metalcore band Living Sacrifice is back. Founding members Bruce Fitzhugh (vocals, guitar) and Lance Garvin (drums) have reunited with Rocky Gray (lead guitar; ex-Evanescence drummer) and Arthur Green (bass) and are currently writing material for a brand new album, due later in the year. Touring plans are also firmed up for this summer. Living Sacrifice’s last release was the In Memoriam CD, which came out in 2005 via Solid State Records. The album was a "best of" collection containing three newly written and recorded songs by Lance Garvin, Rocky Gray and Bruce Fitzhugh, two tracks from each Living Sacrifice album, plus "Enthroned", a 1998 re-recording of a song that originally appeared on 1992's "Nonexistent". For more information, visit www.myspace.com/livingsacrifice . Former Onward guitarist and solo instrumentalist Toby Knapp has issued the following update: "It seems to be taking forever, but the new [solo] album, Misanthropy Divine, is in its final stages. It will include five vocal tracks featuring Dean Sternberg (Withinanother and touring vocalist for Into Eternity a few years back) and four instrumental tracks. Some song titles include 'Entity Unseen' (audio), 'Rhinecliff Bridge', 'Shut Down', 'Dreaming The Microplex', 'The Movement Of Things', 'The Forlorn', and the title track 'Misanthropy Divine'. Dean enters the studio in mid February to complete vocals for the remaining two as-yet-untitled tracks. I still have some guitar solos to record and 'ambient textures,' as me and an old drinking buddy call them. I am researching artists and CD manufacturers in case I have to issue this album myself. It will see the light of day!" Onward officially split up in June 2003 following a parting-of-the-ways with the band's record label, Century Media Records Swedish metallers Persuader will enter the studio in May to begin recording their fourth album for a late 2008 release via Dockyard 1. Persuader’s third full-length effort, When Eden Burns, was released in May 2006 via Dockyard 1. 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). Persuader members Jens Karlsson (vocals, guitar) and Emil Norberg (lead guitar) 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 in August 2005 via Dockyard 1. Stauch has since been kicked out of the band. Danish metallers Raunchy have issued the following update: "So it is finally happening — our gear's all packed and we're on our way to the recording studio [in Ribe, Denmark] to finish up our new album. We're really looking forward to enter the house of gun jack again and team up with our friend Jacob [Hansen, producer] to complete what will be the MOTHERFUCKER of the year! We're dirty, we're heavy, we're poppy and we're prepared to make this album our best to date (maybe whatever, hahaha). Eleven songs have taken their final form and we will record one cover song as well. It's gonna be a sweet heart." Raunchy's as-yet-untitled new album will be released on June 30 via Lifeforce Records. Songtitles set to appear on the CD include "Straight to Hell", "Recovery", "Heavy Burden", "To the Lighthouse", "Destroyer", "Somewhere Along the Road", "Thieves", "Western Gutter", "A Dead Epic", "Black House, Glass City", "To Shatter Bliss" and "Get Fighted". The group's vocalist Kasper Thomsen previously described the new material as "dirty, melodic, thrashy, epic, melancholic and... drum roll... heavy. We are experimenting a lot this time around, with vocals, arrangements and musical expression, but we're not gonna change radically — don't worry! But as a wise man once said: there's no point in writing the same record twice, right?" The new Don Dokken solo album, "Solitary", which has thus far been available only to fans attending the singer's acoustic tour as the opening act for Queensryche, can now be purchased as a digital download at the official Don Dokken MP3 store. Fans can download the entire album, or buy individual tracks, by going to this location. 01. In The Meadow 02. I'll Never Forget 03. Where The Grass Is Green 04. Ship Of Fools 05. You Are Everything 06. Venice 07. Sarah 08. The Tragedy 09. Someday Century Media Records has set a February 22 German release date for Slave to the Dark, a comprehensive box set featuring all featuring 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) Check out the cover artwork at this location. 1/31/08 Swedish death metal super group Bloodbath has issued the following update: "So the time has come for Bloodbath to once again poison the scene with a contagious doze of über brutal death metal. An old acquaintance in this zombified bloodline has once again re-visited his old home. We can now announce that the vocalist on the new mini-CD is none other than Mikael Åkerfeldt courtesy of Opeth. "Second deathster to join the elite is Mr. Per 'Sodomizer' Eriksson (ex-21 Lucifers, ex-Genocrush Ferox). Sodomizer's brutal death metal songwriting approach as well as guitar shredding is a highly welcomed element in the legacy of Bloodbath." Bloodbath 2008 is: Mikael Åkerfeldt - Vocals Anders "Blakkheim" Nyström - Guitar Per "Sodomizer" Eriksson - Guitar Jonas Renkse - Bass Martin "Axe" Axenrot – Drums Bloodbath’s latest album, Nightmares Made Flesh, received a U.S. release in March 2005 via Century Media Records. Due to the long gap between the European and North American release dates, the American version was enhanced with two bonus songs taken from a previously unreleased demo recording of Breeding Death EP, as well as a different front cover, featuring artwork by Wes Benscoter. Iced Earth has been confirmed as the headliner of this year's ProgPower USA festival, set to be held September 26-27 at Center Stage in Atlanta, GA. It will be a rare opportunity to see the band, now that they are restricted in the amount of touring they can undergo due to the return of vocalist Matt Barlow. Iced Earth founder Jon Schaffer had the following to say regarding the festival: "Well, it's been a long time coming, but things have finally lined up right for us o be able to do Glenn's [Harveston, promoter/organizer] festival. It's truly an honor for Iced Earth to play the ProgPower USA festival. I flew down several years ago to check it out and it is definitely a top notch operation. It's really a model for the way festivals should be run. Good people with integrity make all the difference in any organization, and Glenn and his crew are all that and more. This is something that we've wanted to do for a long time and it's finally going to work out perfectly for our plans in 2008. Part 2 of the 'Something Wicked' epic will be out right around this time and it will be a killer celebration! This will be very cool, and a good time will be had by all! We look forward to seeing you there!" Commented promoter Glenn Harveston: "I am beyond excited to have America's premiere metal band on stage at America's premiere metal festival. I may be the promoter, but I'm just as big a fanboy as everyone else in wanting to see them here in Atlanta. I want to personally thank Jon Schaffer for believing in me and the festival." ProgPower USA IX marks the first confirmed show with returning vocalist Matt Barlow to the group. Joining Iced Earth at the festival are Florida's Jon Oliva’s Pain, Poland's Riverside, Germany's Iron Savior, Denmark's Volbeat, Sweden's Andromeda, Italy's Elvenking, France's Spheric Universe Experience, Austria's Serenity, and Italy's Pathosray. The second festival headliner is scheduled to be announced within the next few weeks. Harveston also has announced a roster change. "I'm afraid that Astral Doors will not be able to make their scheduled appearance. This is 100% my fault as I knew there was a risk involved with booking them so early. I appreciate the professionalism the band has shown and can now announce that they are the first band confirmed for ProgPower USA X. Florida's Rob Rock has graciously stepped into their former slot." Tickets for ProgPower USA IX go on sale March 1 and limited to 900 tickets. Advance gold badges are sold-out for the seventh consecutive year. For more information, visit www.progpowerusa.com. Jag Panzer guitarist Mark Briody has issued the following: "First of all — a HUGE congratulations to Chris Broderick [former Jag Panzer guitarist] for his new gig with Megadeth. Chris is a world-class talent and the hardest worker I've ever met. He's like a brother to me and I'm excited for him to get this opportunity. Myself, and everyone else in the band, not only support Chris's decision, we're excited for him. "We (Jag Panzer) have brought Chris Lasegue back to play guitar. Chris tore it up on 'Chain Of Command' and his chops are light years better then they were back then. "So why the total silence from Jag Panzer over the past year? Frankly, I'm upset about getting the rug pulled out from me on the live album. We have a budget for the live album. A tiny budget. I took out a spreadsheet and figured that this budget would allow us to rent a van and drive to Montreal to record the live album. We'd have to supply the recording equipment ourselves and mix the live album ourselves. Yes, the budget is that small. "We were planning on recording the show for a live DVD as well. Releasing this live DVD would have offset our additional costs we incurred on the live album. But I never saw the DVD release paperwork from the label. Gas prices have gotten so high that our budget wouldn't even cover expenses one way to Montreal or anywhere else we'd need to go for a live album. "So right now we're stuck. We're contractually obligated to do a live album, but there funds to do it just aren't adequete. People have suggested we record the Keep It True [festival] show [in Germany in April 2008]. That's a great idea. But I checked on the price of a mobile truck and it's double the budget. Arghhh!!! "My solution — we're moving forward with new material after we get back from Germany. I'm hoping things can get sorted out with the live album, but I have to move forward. "I'm not angry with Century Media [record label], I know they are trying to run a business. But something has to give. "So look for a new single in the months after Keep It True." Jag Panzer have announced the addition of Christian Lasegue as their new lead guitarist. Those familiar with the band's Chain of Command. release will recognize his name as the lead guitarist on that album. Guitarist Mark Briody comments: "We had set the bar pretty high for lead guitar playing with our first full-length album. There was much concern among fans and critics as to whether or not we could maintain such a high level of musicianship in the lead guitar department. Christian quelled those concerns about two seconds into his first solo. A large part of the underground popularity of 'Chain of Command' is easily attributed to the electrifying guitar playing of Christian Lasegue. Christian was a great guitar player back then and his chops are light years beyond that today. I'm excited to be working with him again." Christian first gig back with the band will be on stage as headliners at the prestigious Keep It True festival this April in Germany. Regarding former Jag Panzer guitarist Chris Broderick's new gig as a member of Megadeth, Briody said, "It's not enough to just say 'Best of luck to Chris.' We're a close-knit band and Chris is a brother to all of us. He's a great guy and a close friend. We're all very excited and happy for Chris. Megadeth fans are in for a treat, Chris is a world-class player." New Megadeth guitarist Chris Broderick has commented on his status in his previous bands Nevermore and Jag Panzer as well as his latest gig, which was officially announced earlier today. Said Chris: "I'm glad I have [the fans'] support in this. Unfortunately I will not be able to do any more shows with Jag Panzer or Nevermore because the extensive touring that Megadeth will be doing. I wish them all the best and remain friends with both bands. I look forward to touring with Dave [Mustaine], James [Lomenzo] and Shawn [Drover] and will keep my eye out for [longtime Broderick fans]." Chris Broderick has been playing guitar since he was eleven years old and has been teaching for the last 15 years. Styles range from classical, rock, blues, and jazz. He started taking lessons at 14 years of age studying guitar as well as voice, violin, and piano. Chris has a degree in classical guitar music performance at the University of Denver and the Lamont School of Music. He has performed in many master classes including ones given by David Russell, Benjamin Verdery, and his primary instructor, Ricardo Iznaola. In addition, Chris has taken classes such as jazz improvisation, chord voicing, advanced music theory, and sight-reading. Frontiers Records has announced the details surrounding the forthcoming House Of Lords album, Come To My Kingdom, to be released on March 14. The band's previous studio CD, World Upside Down, was a real fan favorite, so James Christian and the guys went back to the recording with the precise task to create a true rock milestone which could pick up where World Upside Down left off. With the help of the "Fifth Lord" Jeff Kent plus Tommy Denander and Chris Pelcer, the band's songwriting talents of James Christian, BJ Zampa and Jimi Bell have been flourishing to reach some of the highest levels in the band's career ever. Written during the summer 2007, the album was recorded in the fall and mixed by Dennis Ward in November/December. The result is truly outstanding. From the signature intro of "Purgatorio Overtoure n.2" to the epic atmosphere of the title track through to soaring melodic numbers like "I Need To Fly" to the in-your-face attack of "One Foot in the Dark" and to the baroque ballad "Another Day From Heaven", this record has truly everything the fans may want to ask to James Christian and his cohorts. Come to My Kingdom track listing: 01. Purgatorio Overtoure n.2 02. Come To My Kingdom 03. I Need To Fly 04. I Don't Wanna Wait All Night 05. Another Day From Heaven 06. In A Perfect World 07. The Dream 08. One Foot In The Dark 09. Your Every Move 10. I Believe 11. One Touch 12. Even Love Can Save Us 13. In The Light 14. Another Day From Heaven (Acoustic Version) * * Exclusive Bonus Track for Europe Check out audio samples at this location. House Of Lords is planning live shows in the spring/summer 2008, including an appearance at the Rocklahoma festival. The second coming of Megadeth's acclaimed traveling metal festival Gigantour arrives on both DVD and CD April 22 via Image Entertainment — just ten days after Gigantour's latest incarnation begins its North American invasion April 12 in Denver. Conceived in 2005 by Megadeth frontman Dave Mustaine, Gigantour — proclaimed "the mother of all shred fests" by Revolver magazine — resurrects metal's focus on stellar musicianship. "Gigantour 2" features over an hour of blistering performances by iconic and influential heavy metal pioneers Megadeth — who have sold more than 20 million albums worldwide in a career now spanning 25 years — along with Lamb Of God, Opeth, Arch Enemy, Overkill, The Smashup, and Into Eternity. Recorded in DTS 5.1 surround sound, the DVD version also features a behind-the-scenes look at the 2006 tour, while both the DVD and CD offer a hidden bonus track — Megadeth's ever-relevant "Peace Sells". The release of the "Gigantour 2" DVD and CD coincides with this year's Earth Day — perfect, really, since Mustaine has said, with a laugh, about Gigantour's mission of emphasizing true musicianship and virtuosity: "I think that in a small way, we are cleaning up the environment of crappy bands." The DVD and CD track listings are below. DVD: 01. The Smashup - Rachel's Day 02. Sanctity - Zeppo 03. Into Eternity - Timeless Winter 04. Overkill - Thanks for Nothing 05. Overkill - Long Time Dying 06. Arch Enemy - Nemesis 07. Arch Enemy - We Will Rise 08. Opeth - Window Pane 09. Lamb Of God - Vigil 10. Lamb Of God - Red Neck 11. Lamb Of God - Something To Die For 12. Megadeth - Take No Prisoners 13. Megadeth - The Scorpion 14. Megadeth - Washington Is Next! CD: 01. The Smashup - Rachel's Day 02. Sanctity - Zeppo 03. Into Eternity - Timeless Winter 04. Overkill - Thanks for Nothing 05. Overkill - Long Time Dying 06. Arch Enemy - Nemesis 07. Arch Enemy - We Will Rise 08. Opeth - Window Pane 09. Lamb Of God - Vigil 10. Lamb Of God - Red Neck 11. Lamb Of God - Something To Die For 12. Megadeth - Take No Prisoners 13. Megadeth - The Scorpion 14. Megadeth - Washington Is Next! Nevermore guitarist Jeff Loomis will make a guest appearance on former Megadeth guitarist Marty Friedman's upcoming album, to be released in March. Jeff was very pleased and honored to be asked to appear on the CD by the Friedman himself, who happens to be one of Jeff's biggest influences. Loomis took part in a clinic for Schecter Guitar Research on Friday, January 18 during this year's NAMM show (National Association of Music Merchants) at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. Jeff played Nevermore solos and an instrumental from his upcoming solo album. Nevermore is currently working on material for the follow-up to 2005's This Godless Endeavor, tentatively due later in the year via Century Media Records. Swedish metallers In Flames have inked a deal with Koch Records for the North American release of their new album, A Sense of Purpose. Due on April 1 (April 7 in most of Europe via Nuclear Blast), the follow-up to 2006's "Come Clarity" was recorded at the band's own IF Studios in Gothenburg, Sweden and was mixed by Toby Wright (Metallica, Slayer). The group received assistance during the vocal-recording sessions from producer Daniel Bergstrand, who previously produced the vocals on Reroute To Remain, Soundtrack To Your Escape and Come Clarity. All artwork for the album was created by Alex Pardee for ZeroFriends. Alex also created the artwork for the first single, "The Mirror's Truth". "Adding a band at the level of In Flames to the Koch roster shows our commitment to the metal genre," said the label's VP of Metal Scott Givens. "They are poised to be one of the biggest metal bands in the world and we are thrilled to be chosen to help them make it happen." A Sense of Purpose track listing: 01. The Mirror's Truth 02. Disconnected 03. Sleepless Again 04. Alias 05. I'm the Highway 06. Delight and Angers 07. Move Through Me 08. The Chosen Pessimist 09. Sober and Irrelevant 10. Condemned 11. Drenched In Fear 12. March To The Shore "We are extremely happy with the end result and so proud of what we have achieved with the new album and can't wait for you all to hear it," the band said in a statement. In Flames will release a the "The Mirror’s Truth" single on March 7 via Nuclear Blast Records. The European-only release will contain the following tracks: 01. The Mirror's Truth 02. Eraser * 03. Tilt * 04 Abnegation * * Exclusive non-album tracks A new In Flames track, entitled "Abnegation", is featured on the Viva La Bands, Vol. 2 album, which was released on September 4, 2007 via Ferret Music and Filthy Note Records. The CD features exclusive tracks, written and recorded for the CD/DVD combo from some of Bam's favorite acts like Clutch, CKY, Children Of Bodom, Viking Skull and Vains Of Jenna. A U.S.-exclusive track from Shiny Toy Guns and music from other faves like GWAR, The Sounds, Dimmu Borgir and Kill Hannah also appears on the compilation. In Flames, Children Of Bodom, Job For A Cowboy and High On Fire will play this year's Gigantour in North America beginning mid-April and running through the end of May. Headlining the trek will be Megadeth. San Diego, California heavy metal band Cage and Minneapolis, Minnesota prog-power metallers Seventh Calling have been confirmed for the Sanctuary Stage at the 2008 Cornerstone Festival on Friday, July 4, 2008 in Bushnell, Illinois. Cage's latest CD, Hell Destroyer, was released on May 18, 2007 in Western and Eastern Europe via MTM Music; May 22 in the USA and Canada via Destroy All Records Entertainment/BCD Music Group; May 18 in Mexico via Asenath Records/Iguana Records and May 21 in Central and South America via Dynamo Records. Seventh Calling's debut album, "Monuments", was released on June 29, 2007 through Melissa Records. Lance Lange of Seventh Calling says the band's new CD has all the staples of great metal, delivered with Seventh Calling unique personality. "Originality doesn't mean copying the current trends that are out there now because you think you need to fit in with everyone else," he declares, also adding that Seventh Calling will have a huge appeal for fans of melodic music. Fresh off the December 4 release of the "Deluxe Producer Edition" of Sacrament, Grammy-nominated metal juggernaut Lamb Of God has teamed up with Sirius Satellite Radio and GarageBand to bring fans the "Producer Challenge" contest. The contest winners will win a trip to New York to meet Lamb Of God at the premiere of their upcoming DVD, slated for a spring 2008 release. Lamb Of God is giving you the GarageBand files for the song "Redneck" (available here), or you can use the producer files that come with the "Deluxe Producer Edition" of "Sacrament" (available in stores now) to remix ANY song off the album. Fans will be able to submit entries in the following categories: * Most Creative Remix * Best Replacement Track(s) * Best Additional Track(s) * Best Medley * Most Creative Loop The winning tracks will be featured on the official Lamb Of God web site. Five (5) finalists will win the new DVD (before it's available for purchase) and an autographed Lamb Of God photo. The Grand Prize Winner plus a guest will win a trip to NYC to attend the DVD Premiere and meet the band! With the "Deluxe Producer Edition" of Sacrament, the Lamb Of God are breaking down the smoke and mirrors and allowing — for the first time in music history — fans and professionals alike the revolutionary opportunity to produce and/or remix the entire "Sacrament" audio CD. All of the studio audio tracks (guitar, vocals, drums and bass) from the entire Sacrament album have been isolated, separated and prepared for use by music fans everywhere in ANY Mac or PC. The contest ends February 21, 2008, so go here right now to submit your entry for the "Producer Challenge" contest.     12/10/07 The T.J. Martell Foundation in conjunction with 10th Street Entertainment, has announced it will auction off a "Day in the Studio" experience with Eleven Seven Music/Atlantic Records recording artists Buckcherry, with proceeds going to leukemia, cancer and AIDS research. In an eBay auction, which will begin on Sunday, December 16, 2007, at 12:00 p.m. PST / 3:00 p.m. EST, and running for one week only, Buckcherry fans can bid on a once-in-a-lifetime chance to spend a day in a Los Angeles, California recording studio with the band while they record tracks for their fourth full-length CD release. The winning bidder and a guest will receive round-trip coach airfare courtesy of Continental Airlines from any major U.S. city, two nights’ accommodations from a leading four-star Hollywood or Beverly Hills hotel, and two days use of a Mercedes Benz C300 courtesy of Midway car rental. As a memento to remember this experience, the band will also present the winning bidder with a brand-new autographed Schecter guitar. All proceeds from the auction will benefit the life-saving research conducted at eight leading research facilities, including Children's Hospital L.A., The Mayo Clinic, Vanderbilt-Ingram, Columbia Presbyterian Cancer Center, and others. The T. J. Martell Foundation has auctioned off many celebrity experiences for charity on eBay such as a "Day in the Studio" with Metallica, front-row Bon Jovi concert tickets, tickets and stage access for the 2004 through 2007 Vans Warped Tour, autographed instruments, as well as other experiences with top bands and recording artists. Bidders can access this Buckcherry auction by clicking on the "T.J. Martell Auctions on eBay" link found at www.tjmartellfoundation.org. The Associated Press reports that the death last month of Kevin Dubrow, lead singer for the 1980s heavy metal band Quiet Riot, has been ruled an accidental cocaine overdose. Clark County coroner spokeswoman Samantha Charles confirmed the cause Monday (December 10) after toxicology results were received. Dubrow was found dead Nov. 25 at his Las Vegas home. He was 52. Quiet Riot was perhaps best known for its 1983 cover of "Cum on Feel the Noize". The song, featuring Dubrow's powerful, gravelly voice, appeared on the band's album Metal Health — which was the first by a metal band to reach No. 1 on the Billboard chart. DuBrow recorded a solo album in 2004, In for the Kill, and the band's last studio CD, Rehab, came out in October 2006. A rough-mix version of a brand new Dokken track, entitled "Oasis", is available for streaming on the band's MySpace page page. The song comes off the group's upcoming CD, Lightning Strikes Again, due in March/April 2008 via Rhino Records in the U.S. and Frontiers Records in Europe. The follow-up to 2004's Hell to Pay will feature the lineup of Don Dokken (vocals), Jon Levin (guitar, ex-Warlock), Barry Sparks (bass, Trd Nugent, Yngwie Malmsteen, MSG) and Mick Brown (drums). "It will be a very heavy progressive record," Dokken told Deb Rao of KNAC.COM earlier in the year. "Just some cool songs, some dark songs, and some medium tempo. Some of the best work that I have done in years. I am not looking for any kind of sound. I am just writing whatever spiritual inspiration comes to me. You could say the sound is very heavy, like 'Kiss of Death'." Rhino Records in March revisited Dokken's early days with a pair of releases packed with previously unreleased material. The first release, a CD entitled From Conception: Live 1981, captures Dokken in an early, previously unseen concert recorded before the band signed with Elektra. The second release is the DVD debut of the band's first home video, the platinum-certified Unchain the Night, which is expanded with unreleased videos and new extended interviews with the band. Founded in Donzdorf, Germany in 1987, ranked #11 in the "Top 20 Rock/Metal Labels" and #41 in the "Top 50 Labels" charts by Hit Quarters in 2007, Nuclear Blast Records has extended its production and distribution deal with The Century Family, Inc. for the United States. From his office in Germany, Nuclear Blast label owner and President Markus Staiger had this to say about the continued two-year contract renewal: "We are very thrilled to continue our work with The Century Family. It is great that two metal companies can work together so close without any problems and fun to have such professional and nice people in the U.S. working for us! Be sure to expect a great year in 2008 for Nuclear Blast and Century Media. Nuclear Blast will release new titles from Meshuggah, Dimmu Borgir, Kataklysm, Korpiklaani, Threat Signal, All Shall Perish, Death Angel, Hypocrisy, Immortal, and Exodus, as well as a stunning new album from Testament and Avantasia's third album The Scarecrow (featuring members of KISS, Scorpions, Magnum, Jorn Lande, and more), along with some In Flames re-releases, too. Also, keep an eye out for our new U.S. signings — they are all young, fresh and brutal new acts with tremendous new albums. Among these is Success Will Write Apocalypse Across The Sky who play brutal Florida grind-death metal! Big thanks goes to the NB U.S.A. Team, Century Media, and our distributor Caroline/EMI. Special thanks to our great metal fans!" Since 2000, Nuclear Blast has maintained U.S. staff and operations in Los Angeles via a successful and long-running production and distribution deal with The Century Family, Inc., parent of Century Media Records. Century Media currently maintains a distribution deal with Caroline/EMI which it manages for Nuclear Blast under the arrangement. States Century Media CEO Oliver Withoeft: "Nuclear Blast and Century Media are looking forward to an even closer cooperation in 2008. The New Year will prove to be a decisive year for the music industry, and we will continue to be at the forefront of setting trends in metal. Our customers will be pleased to learn that we will expand our offers beyond the traditional ways of selling music." 2007 has been a year of distinction for Nuclear Blast in both Europe and North America. In addition to hosting a celebratory 20-year anniversary festival in Stuttgart this past October in the presence of over 6,000 metal fans, various 2007 releases made extremely noteworthy entries onto the Billboard charts. To view Hit Quarters' Top 20 list of rock/metal labels, go to this location Roadrunner Records has set a February 5, 2008 release date for the MVI (Music Video Interactive) version of Cradle Of Filth's Thornography Deluxe – Harder, Darker, Faste". This special edition will include the following: * The full Thornography album plus six all-new bonus tracks in incredible DVD-Audio and MP3 formats * Three music videos: "Temptation", "Tonight In Flames", "The Foetus Of A New Day Kicking" * Exclusive Behind-The-Scenes Footage * Remixable Tracks * Customizable Ringtones * Exclusive downloadable wallpaper and AIM icons * All-New Original Artwork Plus new, exclusive updates featuring new unreleased music, videos and unparalleled access into the world of Cradle Of Filth. Thornography Deluxe – Harder, Darker, Faster track listing: 01. Under Pregnant Skies She Comes Alive Like Miss Leviathan 02. Dirge Inferno 03. Tonight In Flames 04. Libertina Grimm 05. The 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 13. Murder In The Thirst 14. In The Snake-Eyed And Venomous 15. Halloween II (Misfits cover) (remix) 16. Courting Baphomet 17. Stay (Shakespears Sister cover) 18. Devil To The Metal 19. The Making Of The Video for "The Foetus Of A New Day Kicking" Most of the new songs featured on Thornography Deluxe – Harder, Darker, Faster were written during the Thornography sessions but were completed at a later date. North Carolina's Daylight Dies has issued the following update: "We began recording our third full-length album on Saturday at Volume 11 studio in Raleigh, North Carolina. The title of the third album will be 'Lost to the Living' with some song titles being 'The Morning Light', 'Cathedral' and 'Last Alone'. Thankfully we've escaped any major technical dilemmas and Jesse has already completed tracking drums to five songs. We anticipate the drums to be finished on Tuesday and then moving the operation to TMC Laboratories to begin recording the massive layers of guitars sometime next week. We've posted a few photos from the past two days, as well as a short video which includes Jesse tracking drums to scratch guitars. We will be announcing more song titles, a release date for the album and address the tour talk shortly." Watch video footage from the recording sessions below. Daylight Dies’ latest album, Dismantling Devotion, is out on Candlelight Records. The CD was mixed by Jens Bogren and mastered by Thomas Eberger at The Cutting Room (Opeth, The Hives). Roadrunner Records has set a January 29, 2008 North American release date for a "best-of" collection from California's Spineshank, appropriately titled The Best of Spineshank. The track listing for the effort is as follows: 01. Violent Mood Swings 02. Smothered 03. Stillborn 04. Dead To Me 05. Asthmatic 06. The Height Of Callousness 07. New Disease 08. Synthetic 09. Cyanide 2600 10. Detached 11. Where We Fall 12. Shinebox Check out the cover artwork at this location. Spineshank’s third and last album, Self-Destructive Pattern, was released on September 9, 2003. The album's lead single, "Smothered", was nominated for a Grammy in the category of "Best Metal Performance". Former Spineshank, frontman Jonny Santos is a member of Silent Civilian, which released its debut album, Rebirth of the Temple, in May 2006.     11/21/07 Swedish metaler’s Amon Amarth have issued the following update: "There will be a series of meet-and-greets on our North American tour. The meet-and-greet will be half an hour long beginning from when doors open. We are looking forward to meeting our fans in person and we'll try to make them happen at every show. Unfortunately, due to time restraints, we will be unable to have a meet-and-greet on the dates where there will be in-store signing sessions. "Because of the recent tragic events, Decapitated will not be able to be part of the North American tour. We are deeply sadden by the events and are disappointed that our metal brethren will not be able to share the stage with us. "We've tried to find a replacement for Decapitated but it has been impossible. We've decided to play a longer set and throw in some songs that we either never played live before or haven't played live in a very long time. And we think we have a set list that will please both old and new fans! "We are really looking forward to hitting the roads in North America and finally do a full 90-minute set. We hope that as many of you as possible will be able to catch the show!" Dimmu Borgir's latest album, In Sorte Diaboli, has been certified gold in the band's home country of Norway for sales in excess of 15,000 copes. Dimmu Borgir is said to be the first metal band in Norway to shift than 15,000 units of a single release. The staff of Indie Distribution presented Dimmu Borgir with an award to commemorate this achievement. Pictured here are: Silenoz, Galder, Tony Laureano (stand-in drummer), Thomas (Indie Dist.), Shagrath, Vortex, Hellhammer, Miss Andersen (Indie Dist.), Erik (Indie Dist.), Mustis, and Espen (Indie Dist.). Dimmu Borgir was honored in the "Metal" category at Alarmprisen 2007 (Alarm Awards) on Saturday, October 27 at Sentrum Scene in Oslo, Norway. The group had finished performing at Nuclear Blast's 25 anniversary festival in Stuttgart, Germany and was backstage when it found out it had won the award for In Sorte Diaboli. Also nominated in the "Metal" category were the latest releases from Satyricon (Now, Diabolical), Audrey Horne (Le Fol), Mayhem (Ordo Ad Chao) and Keep Of Kalessin (Armada). In Sorte Diaboli has sold more than 50,000 copies in the United States since its April 2007 release, according to Nielsen SoundScan. Forget whatever rumors you've been hearing about Tommy Lee not being in Motley Crue or turmoil within the band. While at the recent Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp, frontman Vince Neil gave MTV News the lowdown on what's happening. "Well, see what happens is, there's a press release saying that Tommy was out of the band and everybody jumped on that. But when Tommy issued his own press release saying that 'no', nobody paid attention to him. So, he was never out of the band and actually I just talked to him yesterday and I talked to Nikki a couple of days ago and we're going to go into the studio in January and hopefully have a single out by March and a tour in June." As for what the band will be working on, Vince says the album will be called The Dirt, just like the collaborative autobiography on the Crue. And also like that tell-all, Neil hopes each song on the disc will tell a story from their lives. However, the group could just as easily scrap those ideas since, in Vince's own words, "Who knows, in two weeks we'll change the title." Sevendust will return to Tree Sound Studios in Atlanta, Georgia at the end of November to complete its seventh studio full-length record. Tentatively titled The 7th Chapter, the CD will be released on March 4, 2008 on Sevendust's own 7 Bros. Records in conjunction with Warner Music Group's Independent Label Group. More information will be made available soon. Sevendust's sixth studio album, Alpha, will be released outside of the U.S. and Canada on Monday, November 12. The CD will contain the original 12 songs plus the bonus track "The Rim" along with a brand new studio cut entitled "Abuse Me". December 11, 2007 will see Sevendust open the vault on a three-year ride beginning in early January 2005 with the making of the album Next, right up to the present with the release of Retrospective 2; a DualDisc CD/DVD pack. Retrospective 2 will feature six live cuts and three brand new studio tracks on the CD and almost two hours of video footage on the DVD. The DualDisc is the second release on Sevendust's own 7 Bros. Records in conjunction with Warner Music Group's Independent Label Group. The collection includes videos from the hits "Ugly" and "Driven", the fury of one of rocks premier live performers captured on the tracks "Hero", "Silence", "Clueless" and "Alpha". But that's not all, embodied here are rare clips forever on display such as the unique Orlando question-and-answer event on the eve of the release of the record "Alpha", the New Year's Eve video of "The Rim", and as a special bonus, a comical episode of "Pete the A&R Guy" and what he has to say about the state of the Dust. This DVD and companion CD pack includes new audio tracks "Losing You" and "Sleeper", making this keepsake packaging a must for every Sevendust fan. Sevendust drummer Morgan Rose and his wife Teri Harrison (former "The Price is Right" model) are expecting their first child on January 8. This will be Morgan's second kid. His first is Kayla, 7, from his previous marriage to ex-Coal Chamber bassist Rayna Foss. Sevendust's sixth studio album, Alpha, came out in March and debuted at No. 14 on the Billboard album chart. The Scorpions concert at Wacken Open Air in Wacken, Germany on August 3, 2006 will be released on DVD in Europe on December 7 via Sony BMG Music Entertainment GmbH. A North American release date has not yet been announced. Entitled Live At Wacken Open Air 2006: A Night To Remember - A Journey Through Time, the disc will include the German hard rock band's historic performance at the festival during which they were joined by former bandmates Uli Jon Roth, Michael Schenker and Herman Rarebell. Live At Wacken Open Air 2006: A Night To Remember - A Journey Through Time (cover artwork) track listing: 01. Coming Home 02. Bad Boys Running Wild 03. The Zoo 04. Loving You Sunday Morning 05. Make It Real 06. Pictured Life (with Uli John Roth) 07. Speedy's Coming (with Uli John Roth) 08. We'll Burn The Sky (with Uli John Roth) 09. Love 'Em Or Leave 'Em 10. Don't Believe Her 11. Tease Me Please Me 12. Coast To Coast (with Michael Schenker) 13. Holiday (with Michael Schenker) 14. Lovedrive (with Michael Schenker) 15. Another Piece Of Meat (with Michael Schenker) 16. Kottak Attack (James Kottak drum solo) 17. Blackout (with Herman Rarebell) 18. No One Like You (with Herman Rarebell) 19. Six String Sting 20. Big City Nights 21. Can't Get Enough 22. Still Loving You 23. In Trance (with Uli John Roth, Michael Schenker) 24. Bolero 25. Ready To Sting (Appearance of the Scorpion) 26. Rock You Like A Hurricane King Diamond's North American headlining tour — which is scheduled to launch March 23 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, and run through May 8 in Houston — has been cancelled due to a herniated disc. "I can't sit down, even on my couch, for more than a few minutes," King recently told MTV.com. "About [two months ago] I tried, and after 15 minutes, it started feeling like my left leg was getting set on fire." "It can take up to a year and a half for a severe herniated disc to heal properly, but it varies from person to person," he added. "Right now there's not much more we can do." Diamond got a taste of what might happen if he hits the road too soon in September when director Bill Schacht from video company Aestheticom — which has also worked with Amon Amarth — shot a video for "Give Me Your Soul", the first King Diamond clip in 17 years. "They limited what I had to do, of course, so I only did one day of shooting for 90 minutes, but just standing there moving a little bit in the full outfit was very difficult," he said. "And afterwards, I got one of those sharp attacks of pain that I hadn't had in a month and a half. The only thing I can compare it to is a really super-bad toothache or earache. And afterwards, I was like, 'OK, I'm not ready [to tour] yet.' " Regarding how he injured his back, the 51-year-old singer said, "I think the real damage happened mixing the record, because I did that three weeks straight for a minimum of 12 hours a day. One of the last nights, when I was going to bed, I felt these pains in the sciatic nerves on each side, and I thought, 'Oh what is this?' The next morning I woke up and I couldn't walk or stand. It was like being paralyzed. I can't begin to say how painful it was. They say that's the worst pain you can experience as a human being. Had I not lived on the ground floor in a house, I would have jumped out the window." Swedish metaler’s Scar Symmetry have issued the following update: "We're back home from the Live Consternation North American tour, together with Katatonia, Insomnium and Swallow The Sun. It's been an amazing month and we've had nothing but the best of times. We would like to sincerely thank everyone for coming out each night, checking us out, buying our merch, hanging out, sharing their beer with us and so on. Thank you all for being the coolest ever and for your kind support! "As goes for what the future holds, we will begin recording our third album, starting December 1st. So far we have 13 songs written, but we're aiming to have another three or four done, before we start sifting through the material, deciding which songs to include on the album. The new disc will go under the name of Holographic Universe and it will most likely see its release in the late spring of 2008, through Nuclear Blast Records. "Also, out now is the Nuclear Blast All-Stars album Part II, Out Of The Dark, written by Peter Wichers (ex-Soilwork) and featuring Christian Älvestam, among other singers. It's the second and last one of two albums to be released in support of Nuclear Blast 20th anniversary. Check it out!" In This Moment's tour bus trailer was broken into and some gear was stolen following the band's November 14, 2007 concert in Portland, Oregon with Rob Zombie and Ozzy Osbourne. For more details about the theft, including the items that were stolen, visit the band's MySpace blog. In This Moment's debut album, Beautiful Tragedy (Century Media Records) has sold over 30,000 copies in the United States since its March 20, 2007 release, according to Nielsen SoundScan. Veteran California rockers Tesla have scheduled the following 2008 dates: Feb. 01 - Seattle, WA - Showbox Feb. 02 - Portland, OR - Roseland Feb. 05 - Spokane, WA - The Big Easy Feb. 06 - Boise, ID - The Big Easy Feb. 08 - San Francisco, CA - Fillmore Feb. 09 - Reno, NV - Grand Sierra Theatre Feb. 10 - Redding, CA - Redding Convention Center Feb. 13 - Denver, CO - Ogden Theatre Feb. 14 - Kansas City, MO - Uptown Theatre Feb. 16 - Sauget, IL - Pop's Feb. 17 - Wichita, KS - Cotillion Ballroom Feb. 19 - Tulsa, OK - Cain's Ballroom Feb. 20 - West Des Moines, IA - Val Air Ballroom Tesla has just released a new seven-track iTunes digital-download exclusive EP called A Peace of Time. According to the group, the EP is a "seven-song taste of music that was recorded live in the studio and features recordings of Tesla's own songs in a different fashion as well as a few covers that we love. Set to be released for the holiday season, there is a recording of the Christmas classic 'Silent Night' and alternate recordings of Tesla classics." 01. I Love You (Climax Blues Band) 02. Everything I Own (Bread) 03. Signs (Five Man Electrical Band) 04. The Way It Is 05. What You Give 06. I'd Love To Change The World (Ten Years After) 07. Silent Night (acoustic solo) Leaves' Eyes — the German/Norwegian band formed by ex-Theater Of Tragedy singer Liv Kristine Espenaes Krull and members of Atrocity (who are fronted by Liv's husband Alexander Krull) — has issued the following update: Leaves' Eyes played their last show of the year together with Blind Guardian and Astral Doors in the Krefeld Hockeystadium in front of 3,000 people. Moreover, this was the final concert of Leaves' Eyes with bass player Chris Lukhaup and drummer Moritz Neuner; Chris Lukhaup had to leave the band due to personal reasons and Moritz Neuner is taking another turn in his working career. The band wishes them both all the best in the future. At the moment Leaves' Eyes is checking out new musicians — if you are interested and a killer bassist or drummer, please contact info@mastersoundentertainment.de. " Leaves' Eyes filmed its October 20, 2007 concert at the Metal Female Voices Fest in Wieze, Belgium for an upcoming DVD. The stage set featured a Viking ship designed by Leaves' Eyes tech Leebee. A tentative March 2008 release is expected. Swiss hard rockers Krokus are the first confirmed band for next year's Rocklahoma festival, which will be held July 11-13, 2008 at the Catch The Fever Festival Grounds, four miles north of Pryor, Oklahoma. Krokus' participation in the event was announced on Monday (November 19) by the festival's organizers, Catch the Fever Music Festival, via KMOD radio in Tulsa. Tickets for Rocklahoma 2008 went on sale to the general public on October 1. Over fifty percent of the VIP seats have been renewed making the remaining seats in great demand. The public is encouraged to get their VIP seats early as they are becoming more limited. Rocklahoma will re-create the Hollywood scene of the Eighties with help from Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Whisky A Go Go and the famed Rainbow Bar and Grill, both on West Hollywood's Sunset Blvd. "The Eighties was a magical moment in regards to the history of rock and roll as many of the hottest bands at that time got their start right there on Sunset Blvd.," said Mark Nuessle, general manager of the Catch the Fever Music Festival. 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. The band's The Church of Tiamat DVD entered the Swedish Music DVD chart at position No. 5 in May 2006. An e-card for the DVD is available at this location. The e-card contains several features, such as a streamable sample video of the DVD, photos as well as detailed information on Tiamat itself and the band's first official DVD release. The video teaser gives you the opportunity to check out the following songs: "Vote For Love", "Children Of The Underworld" and "Gaia".       11/06/07 Grammy-nominated metal band Lamb Of God will release the "deluxe producer edition" of its latest album, Sacrament (with bonus CD) on December 4, 2007. Lamb Of God is breaking down the smoke and mirrors and allowing fans and professionals alike the revolutionary opportunity to produce and/or remix the entire Sacrament audio CD. All of the studio audio tracks (guitar, vocals, drums and bass) from the entire "Sacrament" album have been isolated, separated and prepared for use by music fans everywhere in ANY Mac or PC, so it is very user-friendly. Remix the album any way you want to hear it. More bass? Your call. Less drums? Your call. Dub remix? Your call. New vocals? Good luck! Track and add your own effects, vocals, guitar, bass, drums, and anything else you can imagine! Isolate tracks to help learn or to play/sing along. Create your own new unique songs or loops by cutting apart, rearranging or mixing up tracks or even entire songs. The possibilities are endless and the tools are now in your hands. Let your inner-producer shine! Share your Lamb Of God creations online and check out the creative adventures of other new producers. You are the beginning of a revolution in music as we know it. To hear samples of the release, go to www.lambofgod.tv . Norwegian gothic metal band Sirenia has parted ways with Danish singer Monika Pedersen due to "musical differences." Commented Monika: "After much consideration I have chosen to leave Sirenia, but I will continue with music. The reason is that we have too many musical differences, and I don't feel like it's the right band for me. I have had a great time in the band, lots of good experiences and only wish the best for the band in the future. "I want to send a big 'thank you' to all the fans for your support — you haven't heard the last of me!" The band added: "As a result of these circumstances Sirenia will have to pull out of the planned European tour with Therion. The show in Athens will be postponed until May 2008. You have our apologies for this, Sirenia will be back on the road next year. We will use the coming months to find a new singer, as well as composing music for our next album." Sirenia's new album, Nine Destinies and a Downfall, entered the German Media Control chart in March at position No. 54. The album was recorded at Jailhouse studios in Norway with engineer Hans Eidsgard and Soundsuite studios in France with Terje Refsnes and was mixed and mastered at Antfarm studios in Aarhus, Denmark with Tue Madsen. Sirenia's video for the song "The Other Side" has been posted online at YouTube.com. The clip was helmed by the renowed Serbian production company I-Code (Deathstars, Hammerfall, Blind Guardian, Scar Symmetry), which previously worked with the group on the “My Mind's Eye" video. Progressive metaler’s Symphony X will embark on a North American headlining tour in April 2008. Support on the shows will come from Epica and Into Eternity. The dates are as follows: Apr. 04 - Cambridge. MA @ Middle East Apr. 05 - New York, NY @ Nokia Theater Times Square Apr. 06 - Philadelphia, PA @ The Trocadero Apr. 08 - Quebec City, QUE @ Imperial de Quebec Apr. 09 - Montreal, QUE @ Medley Apr. 11 - Toronto, ONT @ The Opera House Apr. 12 - Cleveland, OH @ Peabody's Apr. 13 - Mokena, IL @ The Pearl Room Apr. 16 - Seattle, WA @ El Corazon Apr. 17 - Portland, OR @ Hawthorne Theatre Apr. 18 - San Francisco, CA @ Slim's Apr. 19 - West Hollywood, CA @ House of Blues Apr. 20 - San Diego, CA @ House of Blues Apr. 22 - Santa Ana, CA @ Galaxy Theatre Apr. 26 - Houston, TX @ Meridian Apr. 27 - Ft. Worth, TX @ Ridglea Theater Apr. 29 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Culture Room Apr. 30 - St. Petersburg, FL @ The State Theatre May 01 - Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade May 02 - Charlotte, NC @ Tremont Music Hall May 03 - West Springfield, VA @ Jaxx Tickets are available exclusively through EnterTheVault.com until November 24 at which point tickets will go on sale through all normal ticketing outlets. A 10-minute audio interview with Symphony X guitarist Michael Romeo conducted by Norway's Metal Express Radio (web site) has been posted online at this location. Symphony X's video for the song "Serpent's Kiss" has been posted on MySpace. The track comes off the New Jersey progressive metaler’s' new CD, which sold around 6,500 copies in the United States in its first week of release, according to Nielsen SoundScan. "Paradise Lost" was released on June 26 via Inside Out Music. The CD was mixed by Jens Bogren (Opeth, Soilwork, Amon Amarth) at Fascination Street Studios in Örebro, Sweden. Rocklahoma, which purports to be the largest '80s rock festival of its kind ever to be organized, has announced more details about next year's event, which will be held July 11-13, 2008 at the Catch The Fever Festival Grounds, four miles north of Pryor, Oklahoma. "With tickets having been sold in all fifty states, every province in Canada, every country in Europe and six out of the seven continents, Rocklahoma was indeed a global event!" said Mark Nuessle, general manager of the Catch the Fever Music Festival. "Our goal is to make 2008 even bigger for the fans!" Tickets went on sale to the general public Monday, October 1. Over fifty percent of the VIP seats have been renewed making the remaining seats in great demand. The public is encouraged to get their VIP seats early as they are becoming more limited. Through November 5, VIP seating is $325.00 plus tax and handling and can be purchased at www.rockfeverfest.com or by calling toll-free at 1-866-310-2288. The remaining seats, if any will increase in price on Tuesday, November 6. Rocklahoma will re-create the Hollywood scene of the Eighties with help from Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Whisky A Go Go and the famed Rainbow Bar and Grill, both on West Hollywood's Sunset Blvd. "The Eighties was a magical moment in regards to the history of Rock and Roll as many of the hottest bands at that time got their start right there on Sunset Blvd.," said Nuessle. 9/27/07 On Tuesday, October 2, Finnish/Swedish symphonic metaler’s Nightwish will release their new LP, Dark Passion Play, in the U.S. via Roadrunner Records. This album will be released in two configurations — the single-disc standard version and two-CD "special edition" which will contain one bonus track on the first disc and a second CD comprised of orchestral versions of every song on the album. Right now if you pre-order the record from Newbury Comics you will also receive a CD booklet autographed by the band (booklets will be available while supplies last; NewburyComics.com will post information when autographed booklets are sold out). This offer is valid for domestic (U.S.) orders only. Offer valid only with purchase of Dark Passion Play or Dark Passion Play: Collector's Edition. Pre-ordered CDs shipping with promotional material are limited to five (5) per customer. Nightwish is expected to perform at the Helsinki (Finland) and Hamburg (Germany) release parties for the group's new album, Dark Passion Play. The Hamburg party will take place on the album's German release date, September 28, at a club called Delphi Showpalast. It has been announced that the entire group will attend the event, which will feature a performance by "a famous and glorious Nightwish cover band called Sushi Patrol from Japan" (believed to be the members of Nightwish themselves). The Helsinki party will take place on September 26 at Tavastia in Helsinki, Finland. A "Nightwish cover band from Estonia called Natuvissyset" is scheduled to appear at the Helsinki event, which will coincide with the Finnish release date of the group's new CD (via Spinefarm Records/Universal). Nightwish will make its "official" live debut with new singer Anette Olzon on October 6 in Tel Aviv, Israel. The group's U.S. tour kicks off on October 15 in West Springfield, Virginia. Nightwish’s video for the group's new single, "Amaranth", can be viewed at this location. The clip was shot in Los Angeles with director Antti Jokinen (Beyonce, Wyclef Jean, Korn, Missy Elliot, Stratovarius, Shania Twain, Celine Dion). Nightwish shot two videos in Los Angeles with Antti Jokinen, reportedly at a cost of 270,000 euros (approximately $362,000). "We saved time and money by doing two videos in one session," Nightwish leader Tuomas Holopainen told the Finnish newspaper Ilta-Sanomat. Behind-the-scenes footage of the making of the new Nightwish video, "Amaranth", has been posted at Nightwish.com. Dark Passion Play is scheduled for release in the U.S. on October 2 via Roadrunner Records. According to HMV Japan, Dokken will release its new album, entitled Lightining Strikes, in Japan on October 24. The CD will be issued via Rhino Records in the U.S. and Frontiers Records in Europe. The follow-up to 2004's Hell to Pay will feature the lineup of Don Dokken (vocals), Jon Levin (guitar, ex-Warlock), Barry Sparks (bass, Ted Nugent, Yngwie Malmsteen, MSG) and Mick Brown (drums). Backing vocals on six songs were laid down by legendary hard rock singer Jeff Scott Soto (Journey, Yngwie Malmsteen, Talisman). Soto previously stated about the CD: "The album really hits back home with the classic Dokken sound, if you've been waiting for them to return to 'Tooth And Nail' or 'Under Lock And Key', you're really gonna be pleased with this one!!" Rhino Records in March revisited Dokken's early days with a pair of releases packed with previously un-issued material. The first release, a CD entitled From Conception: Live 1981, captures Dokken in an early, previously unseen concert recorded before the band signed with Elektra. The second release is the DVD debut of the band's first home video, the platinum-certified Unchain the Night, which is expanded with unreleased videos and new extended interviews with the band. Savage Circus members Jens Karlsson (vocals), Emil Norberg (lead guitar) and Piet Sielck (guitar, bass, backing vocals) has issued the following statement: "After all it's time for some good news again. Savage Circus is happy to present our new official drummer, Mr. Mike Terrana. Known from great bands like Axel Rudi Pell, Rage, Yngwie J. Malmsteen and Masterplan not only to the metal community, Mike is a versatile artist with a very unique style of his own. Exactly this style along with his great character makes the Mighty Troll a perfect match. Mike, welcome aboard! "But that's not all! After being our unofficial bass guitarist for over a year it is more than due to make Yenz Leaonhardt an official member, too. This has been in our heads for a long time, but being lazy bastards we never came up with an announcement. Yenz is known from playing with or in bands like Lacrimosa, Kingdome Come, Stormwarrior and Iron Savior. Needless to say that Yenz is a great person. Yenz, welcome aboard officially! "Now with the completion of the Circus we are ready for action again. Work on the new record runs at full throttle and release is scheduled for early 2008 followed by various live performances. "All of us are totally happy about this great lineup, which already brings so much energy to the band." Savage Circus’ current lineup: Jens Carlsson (lead vocals) Emil Norberg (guitar) Piet Sielck (guitar, backing vocals) Yenz Leonhardt (bass guitar, backing vocals) Mike Terrana (drums, percussion) Savage Circus last month announced the departure of drummer Thomen Stauch (ex-Blind Guardian) due to personal differences. The band recently released a DVD, entitled "Live in Atlanta", through Dockyard 1. The live footage was filmed last year at the ProgPower USA VII festival in Atlanta, GA. Savage Circus issued its debut album, Dreamland Manor, in North America in March 2006 via Century Media Records. An MP3 for the track "Evil Eyes" has been posted online at this location. The North American version of the CD, which was issued in Europe in August 2005, includes the "Evil Eyes" video. 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, and bassist Mathias Granås (Xsavior), has parted ways with keyboardist Kaspar Dahlqvist (Dionysus, Stormwind) due to "personal reasons." Norwegian musician Henning Ranseth (Return, Ram-Zet) will handle the keyboard and second guitar duties for the band's upcoming European tour with Sonata Arctica and Epica beginning late October. Ride The Sky's video for the song "New Protection", which was shot in Umeå, Sweden with director Owe Lingvall of Village Road Film, can be viewed below. The track is the title cut of the group's debut album, which was released in Germany on August 24 via Nuclear Blast. An e-card for the effort can be found at this location. "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. Check out audio samples at www.myspace.com/ridetheskytheband. A rough-mix version of the song "New Protection" is featured on the Nuclear Blast compilation "Into the Light", which was released on June 1. The track "A Smile from Heaven's Eye" will appear on the 20 Nuclear Years four-CD box, due in August. Sweden's Dream Evil has announced plans to release a CD containing several new cuts and songs that were previously only available in Japan as bonus tracks, combined with a live DVD recorded on November 25, 2006 at Sticky Fingers in Gothenburg. Entitled Gold Medal in Metal, the set will tentatively be issued in November/December. Dream Evil's latest CD, United, hit the Swedish official album chart at position #24, the Swedish metal chart at #3 as well as the Greek album chart at position #41. On December 13, 2006 Dream Evil made its U.S. live debut when it headlined the Century Family's third annual Christmas Balls show at The Key Club in Hollywood. United was recorded at Sweden's famed Studio Fredman with Dream Evil guitarist and legendary producer Fredrik Nordström (Arch Enemy, Opeth, At The Gates). The limited-edition first pressing of United includes a bonus second CD containing five exclusive, brand new songs. Opeth will release The Roundhouse Tapes on October 22 via Peaceville Records (View cover at this location). According to a press release, "'The Roundhouse Tapes' contains a captivating Opeth performance from the Camden Roundhouse, London, UK, on November 9th, 2006 (a gig which also featured Paradise Lost), and sees the band in scintillating form churning out a selection of classics from their illustrious career. You know what to expect from Opeth: unrivalled composition; seamless progressive dynamics and boundless atmosphere from the mellow to the incredibly heavy, all sealed with the unmistakable vocal presence of mainman Mikael Åkerfeldt." Commented Åkerfeldt: "The Roundhouse concert will always be a very memorable gig for us for many reasons, but most importantly it caught the band at the peak of the Ghost Reveries tour. I must say we're quite tight after 18 odd months on the road supporting the record. I'm extremely pleased we got it documented and I hope it will please our beloved fans as well. As an extra bonus we've decided to collaborate with one of our past labels for this release, the legendary Peaceville Records. Here's a toast to Hammy and Lisa for helping us back in the day as well as to the new team for preserving this pleasurable memory for today's music lovers as well as for generations to come." "The Roundhouse Tapes" tracklisting: CD1: 01. When 02. Ghost Of Perdition 03. Under The Weeping Moon 04. Bleak 05. Face Of Melinda 06. Thw Night And The Silent Water CD2: 01. Windowpane 02. Blackwater Park 03. Demon of the Fall Opeth's The Roundhouse Tapes will be released as a high-definition-filmed DVD in early 2008. This will also feature lots of fan interviews, band interviews, soundcheck footage and live photos, along with exclusive menu music written by mainman Mikael Åkerfeldt and keyboardist Per Wiberg. German melodic metaler’s Helloween have unveiled the cover artwork for their 12th studio LP, entitled "Gambling with the Devil". Check it out at this location. The CD was recorded at singer Andi Deris' Mi Sueno Studios in Tenerife, Spain with longtime producer Charlie Bauerfeind (Blind Guardian, Saxon). A Halloween (October 31) release is expected via SPV Records. Helloween will team up with Gamma Ray for the "Hellish Rock" tour beginning November 16 in Budapest, Hungary. Support on select dates will come from AXXIS. Apart from very few festival appearances, this will be the first time ever Helloween and Gamma Ray have toured together. In addition, it is extremely likely that Kai Hansen — Gamma Ray leader and ex- Helloween member — will join his former bandmates for a jam on classic Helloween numbers. Commented Helloween guitarist Michael Weikath: "This is going to be a historical event for all Helloween fans. We are looking forward to have Kai and his band on our tour with us." Plans also exist to take this powerful package to the territories of Southeast Asia, as well as North and South America. According to a posting on guitarist Chris Caffery's (Savatage, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Doro) web site, he has just completed his first official songwriting session with German metal singer Doro Pesch. "[We're] working on stuff for her next CD...the 25th anniversary one," says Caffery. "There are a couple of things she really likes so far. I am excited, it went well! She is planning on releasing it next summer." Doro is planning a new U.S. tour that will take place in the spring of 2008. More information will be made available soon. Pesch's new version of the Warlock classic "All We Are" — featuring a backing band consisting of Destruction frontman Marcel "Schmier" Schirmer, After Forever guitarist Bas Maas and well-known session drummer Tim Husung — was released on June 8. The 45-minute CD includes other rare material and bonus video footage and was issued on the AFM Records label. 8/11/07 Swedish metaler’s Amon Amarth have issued the following update: "We are happy to announce that our DVD, Wrath of the Norsemen, has officially sold gold in the USA. [This comes out to around 16,000 copies sold due to the fact that the set consists of three discs; gold certification for a single-disc release is 50,000 copies.] "We want to thank Metal Blade Records, and especially Michael Trengert, for making this DVD happen. We also want to thank our friends 'Die Jomswikinger', our crew, and the Roax film team for an excellent job. Last but not least we want to thank all our American fans who have supported us and bought the DVD. You kick ass, America!" Released in June 2006, Wrath of the Norsemen DVD entered the Swedish Music DVD chart at position No. 2. A three-disc set, it was released in a deluxe 10-page digipack with special gold-laminated slipcase. The main body of the DVD is the Cologne show from 2005 — filmed with 11 cameras, this was the longest show Amon Amarth have ever played (23 songs!). Bonus footage includes interviews, behind-the-scenes of the DVD recording and other stuff filmed around the Cologne show. Discs 2 and 3 feature professionally filmed shows from Summer Breeze 2005, the Metal Blade Rrroooaaarrr 2005 (a show with a really unusual setlist!), Wacken Open Air 2004 and the release show for "Fate of Norns" in Ludwigsburg (Germany) in 2004. Los Angeles-based hard rock band My Ruin has set Throat Full of Heart as the title of its upcoming album, due this fall via an as-yet-undisclosed label. Co-produced by My Ruin guitarist Mick Murphy and producer/engineer Duane Burda, Throat Full of Heart was recorded at The Hobby Shop in Highland Park, California, which was built and is owned by producers Mudrock and Scott Gilman. The band has posted four new clips and one full-length track on its MySpace page, with the full track listing and label details to be revealed shortly. My Ruin is set to film a video for album opener "Ready for Blood" with director Ben Levine who previously directed their video for "Made to Measure" from My Ruin's 2003 release The Horror of Beauty on Century Media Records. "We came up with a kind of true to life concept for the video that documents what we've been through as a band over the past year without going into graphic detail," says Tairrie. Leaves' Eyes vocalist Liv Kristine has issued the following update: "After a busy spring and summer, touring Europe with KAMELOT, playing festival shows, working on our DVD production, moreover on our next album, we are now getting ready for our third North American tour. We will leave Germany on Friday, heading for Springfield at our first show. It will be fantastic! Jaxx in Springfield is already sold out. Our live show will consist of both well-known tracks as well as material we have never presented to an audience before. After the tour we will continue the recordings of our next full-length album. I had a brilliant idea a while ago and decided to find out more about it. We've opened up for new influences, however staying true and close to our roots." Leaves' Eyes latest EP, Legend Land, entered the German chart at position No. 75. Legend Land was released in North America on July 28, 2006 via Napalm Records. Watch Me Bleed, the new German band featuring Chris Rodens (vocals; Kickdown), Markus Pohl (guitar; Symphorce, Mystic Prophecy), Mark Knaus (bass; Kickdown) and Steffen Theurer (drums; Symphorce, Chinchilla), has made its three-song promotional CD available for download via the group's official web site. The effort was produced, engineered and recorded by Sebastian Rodens and was mixed by Sebastian Rodens at Schaltraum Studios in Ulm. The track listing is as follows: 01. Rise 02. SixSixSeven 03. The Game Is On Formed in the winter of 2006, Watch Me Bleed came together to fulfill the band's "vision of aggressive, modern metal," according to the group's official bio. In February 2007 they hit the stage for the first time... opening for Stone Sour in front of 750 screamin' metalheads. 8/7/07 According to Ray Waddell of Billboard.com, sources say a Hollywood press conference in one week will announce a 50-date American arena tour by Van Halen to begin in early October. The tour will feature founding Van Halen members David Lee Roth, Eddie Van Halen and Alex Van Halen, with Eddie's son Wolfgang on bass. Van Halen last toured in 2004 with vocalist Sammy Hagar, grossing nearly $40 million, according to Billboard Boxscore. Wolfgang Van Halen, the projected replacement for VH bassist Michael Anthony, told People magazine in April 2007 that he wasn't disappointed there wasn’t' going to be a Van Halen tour this summer following his father's decision to check himself into rehab. "My dad's taking care of himself," he said. "I also think I'm too young for the experience, because I know there are a lot of bad things out there." Eddie Van Halen issued a statement addressed to fans in early March announcing that he was seeking treatment because "at the moment I do not feel that I can give you my best. "That's why I have decided to enter a rehabilitation facility to work on myself, so that in the future I can deliver the 110 percent that I feel I owe you and want to give you," the statement said. Back in January, Eddie Van Halen told Rolling Stone magazine about Wolfgang, "Wait until you hear this kid play. I pick him up from school every day and we jam. We've got a shredding bass player now that's laying down the law for Alex [Van Halen, drums], so I get to weave in and out." Van Halen was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in March. The Black Crowes have completed the recording of their new album and will start mixing in September for a spring 2008 release. Sixteen new tracks were recorded, all of which have not yet been played to a live audience. The album was recorded at Allaire Studios in Shokan, New York and was produced by Paul Stacey and The Black Crowes. Prior to the start of recording, The Black Crowes brought in Adam MacDougall to perform on keyboards and are proud to announce that Adam will be joining The Black Crowes for future touring. In addition, The Black Crowes invited Luther Dickinson from North Mississippi Allstars to perform on the record. King Diamond's North American tour with Kreator, Leaves' Eyes and Cellador — which is scheduled to kick off March 22, 2008 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida — officially goes on sale today, August 6 through all normal ticketing outlets. Tickets can still be purchased via EnterTheVault.com. King Diamond with Kreator, Leaves' Eyes and Cellador: Mar. 22 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Culture Room Mar. 23 - Orlando, FL @ House of Blues Mar. 25 - Myrtle Beach, SC @ House of Blues Mar. 26 - Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade Mar. 28 - Charlotte, NC @ Tremont Street Music Hall Mar. 29 - Springfield, VA @ Jaxx Mar. 30 - Philadelphia, PA @ The Trocadero Apr. 01 - New York City, NY @ B.B. King Blues Club & Grill Apr. 02 - New York City, NY @ B.B. King Blues Club & Grill Apr. 04 - Poughkeepsie, NY @ The Chance Theater Apr. 05 - Worcester, MA @ The Palladium Apr. 06 - Montreal, QUE @ The Medley Apr. 07 - Quebec City, QUE @ Imperial De Quebec Apr. 09 - Toronto, ON @ The Opera House Apr. 10 - Cleveland, OH @ Peabody's Down Under Apr. 11 - Detroit, MI @ Harpo's Apr. 12 - Mokena, IL @ The Pearl Room Apr. 13 - Sauget, IL @ Pop's Apr. 15 - St Paul, MN @ Station 4 Apr. 16 - Winnipeg, MB @ Garrick Centre Apr. 18 - Edmonton, AB @ Starlite Room Apr. 19 - Calgary, AB @ MacEwan Hall Ballroom Apr. 21 - Vancouver, BC @ Croation Cultural Centre Apr. 22 - Seattle, WA @ El Corazon Apr. 23 - Portland, OR @ Roseland Theater Apr. 25 - San Francisco, CA @ The Filmore Apr. 26 - Los Angeles, CA @ House of Blues Apr. 27 - Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues Apr. 28 - Las Vegas, NV @ House of Blues Apr. 30 - San Diego, CA @ House of Blues May 01 - Phoenix, AZ @ Marquee Theater May 02 - Tucson, AZ @ Rialto Theater May 03 - Albuquerque, NM @ Sunshine Theater May 04 - Denver, CO @ Ogden Theater May 06 - Tulsa, OK @ Cains Ballroom May 07 - Dallas, TX @ House of Blues May 08 - Houston, TX @ The Meridian May 09 - New Orleans, LA @ House of Blues May 10 - San Antonio, TX @ White Rabbit King Diamond's latest album, "Give Me Your Soul ... Please" recently entered the Swedish national chart at position No. 28. As previously reported, the CD also landed at No. 58 on the Danish chart (the second highest new entry on the chart behind Velvet Revolver). Give Me Your Soul ... Please sold 4,500 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 174 on The Billboard 200 chart. Give Me Your Soul ... Please draws from themes from the occult and both King Diamond's personal life, after-life experiences, as well as King Diamond's signature dark imagination. The result is a montage of murder-mysteries-meets-nightmare-dream-sequences wrapped in a proto-power-metal soundtrack. King says, "It's a horror murder mystery story mixed with reality from beginning to end." Anthrax has abandoned plans to utilize the services of Slipknot/Stone Sour frontman Corey Taylor on its next album due to scheduling conflicts with Taylor's other projects. Anthrax is said to be currently looking for a new singer to join the fold, although this has not yet been officially confirmed by the band or its management. Anthrax split with singer Joey Belladonna in January, less than two years after reuniting with him and other members of the band's "classic" lineup of the '80s and early '90s. Vocalist John Bush had been a member of the band before that, from 1992 to 2005. Taylor confirmed that he was working with Anthrax on material for their next studio album in a June 2007 interview with Germany's Rock Hard magazine. Asked if he would become the group's vocalist, Taylor said, "It's been bandied about. I'm not saying anything right now because all it's been is just talked about...It kind of started as a joke. And then the more we talked about it, the more serious it got. I'm gonna at least help them out. It's kind of a dream come true — Anthrax is one of my favorite bands." Taylor said in June that he and Anthrax were "taking baby steps," but that he had written lyrics for eight or nine songs. He also admitted that while he was interested in singing for Anthrax, "I'm in two huge bands right now. So it's like I barely get enough time to sleep, let alone do another band." Taylor is currently on the road with Stone Sour and is scheduled to regroup with Slipknot later in the year. It is also unlikely that Taylor would be able to record with Anthrax since he is signed to Roadrunner Records (Anthrax is believed to still have a European record deal with Nuclear Blast). Corey Taylor's video interview with Germany's Rock Hard magazine in which he confirmed that he was working with Anthrax on material for their upcoming studio album is available at YouTube. Bieler Bros. Records and Skindred, in association with Reverbnation, have unveiled the exclusive global premiere of Skindred's new single, "Ratrace". Skindred fans have been waiting feverishly since the band's debut, Babylon, for a chance to hear new material from the ragga-punk-metal originators. That long wait has come to an end. Fans worldwide are invited to join in this global kick off and listen to "Ratrace" on the band's official Reverbnation profile. "Ratrace" is taken from Skindred's highly anticipated new record, Roots Rock Riot, which will hit stores on October 23 in the United States, with an international release date to be announced soon. Roots Rock Riot will be the follow-up to the band's breakthrough debut, Babylon, which sold over 250,000 albums and featured the top-ten, hit single, "Nobody", and its successful follow up "Pressure". Skindred has toured the world exhaustively with the likes of Korn, Chevelle, Breaking Benjamin, HIM, Sevendust, Papa Roach, Soulfly and also appeared on the mega Download festival; where frontman Benji Webbe took over vocals for Korn to perform their legendary song, "A.D.I.D.A.S." The recording of Roots Rock Riot was completed at Bieler Bros. Studios in Pompano Beach, FL with producer Matt Squire (Panic At The Disco) and was mixed by Rick Will (Babylon). The album will feature twelve tracks sure to take hardcore Skindred fans to a whole new level.   8/4/07 Threshold’s original vocalist Damian Wilson has confirmed that he will perform with the U.K. progressive metal band for all their tour dates this year following the departure of previous singer Andrew "Mac" McDermott. Damian already stood in earlier this month for the band's performances at Slovenia's Metalcamp and Germany's Earthshaker Fest. Wilson sang on Threshold’s early albums "Wounded Land" and "Extinct Instinct". He is currently lead singer for the band Headspace who recently supported Ozzy Osbourne for U.K. shows, including Wembley Arena. McDermott confirmed his departure from Threshold earlier this week. In a statement he told fans that he knew the timing was bad but thanked them for all their support. He also wished the band all the best and expressed his gratitude to Wilson for standing in for him. Threshold’s new album Dead Reckoning has received eight "Album of the Month" awards across Europe, Canada and South America. The band will tour Europe in September with a three band support featuring Communic, Machine Men and Serenity, followed by further shows and festivals including October's sold-out ProgPower USA festival. Due to a recently diagnosed injury, Dimmu Borgir drummer Hellhammer will be unable to play drums for the band on the remaining festival dates this summer and the upcoming European tour with Amon Amah and Hatesphere. Hellhammer's x-ray confirmed a severe neck prolapse causing numbness in his right arm. He will be going into treatment for soon and could — quite possibly — undergo corrective surgery. Taking over drum duties for the upcoming dates will be Tony Laureano (Nile, Angelcorpse, Aurora Borealis), who played for Dimmu Borgir during the band's North American stint on Ozzfest in 2004 and during festival performances throughout 2005. Dimmu's record label said in a statement, "We wish Hellhammer a swift and successful recovery!" A new Children Of Bodom track, entitled "Tie My Rope", has been posted on the group's MySpace page. The song comes off the forthcoming Viva La Bands, Vol. 2 album, which is scheduled for release on September 4 via Ferret Music/Filthy Note Records/ In his position as one of the world's leading pop culture icons and most acclaimed action sports athletes, Bam Margera has made it his mission to expose an entire generation of his peers to some original high-energy music through his Viva La Bands album and tour series. The CD features exclusive tracks, written and recorded for the CD/DVD combo from some of Bam's favorite acts like Clutch, In Flames, CKY, Children Of Bodom, Viking Skull and Vains Of Jenna. A U.S.-exclusive track from Shiny Toy Guns and music from other faves like GWAR, The Sounds, Dimmu Borgir and Kill Hannah also appears on the killer compilation. The DVD component to this rocking release contains almost an hour of never-before-seen Bam footage — a must-have for the 'Jackass generation!' Revealing what makes the DVD special, Bam adds, "I'm finding some of my best, unused footage for the DVD. Everyone keeps asking me for a CKY5 but I think this DVD might be the closest thing to that!" Viva La Bands, Volume 2 track listing: 01. Clutch - "King of Arizona" * 02. In Flames - "Abnegation" * 03. Children Of Bodom - "Tie My Rope" * 04. CKY - "Rio Bravo" (Remix) * 05. The Sounds - "Ego" (Alan Moulder UK Mix) 06. Shiny Toy Guns - "Rocketship" 07. Bloodhound Gang - "Screwing You On The Beach At Night" * 08. GWAR - "War Is All We Know" 09. The 69 Eyes - "Shadow Of Your Love" 10. Priestess - "Lay Down" 11. Dimmu Borgir - "The Serpentine Offering" 12. Kill Hannah - "Believer" 13. Viking Skull - "Blackened Sunrise" * 14. Vains Of Jenna - "Enemy in Me" * 15. A Life Once Lost - "Firewater Joyride" 16. Revolution Mother - "Come On" 17. Melody Club - "Take Me Away" 18. The Thieves - "Vacant Thoughts" 19. Malevolent Creation - "Buried In A Nameless Grave" 20. Gnarkill - "Dico At The Piano Bar" * Exclusive tracks Edguy frontman Tobias Sammet announced at a press conference at Wacken Open Air earlier today that his solo project Avantasia will perform at next year's installment of the festival, set to take place July 31 - August 2, 2008 in Wacken, Germany. Also scheduled to appear are Iron Maiden (headliners) and Children Of Bodom. 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 full-length release from Avantasia. 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. In a recent interview, Sammet described the music on the new Avantasia CD as "diversified, pomp metal with some classic rock elements, Classic orchestrated moments and Celtic stuff, a big timeless production and so on and so forth. It's going to consist of many different elements. Bombastic kick-ass music with a lot of heart and depth." Check out photos from the recording sessions at this location. The new Avantasia album will be a concept album featuring different singers singing different characters in a story. But the concept itself won't be a sequel to the first two Avantasia albums. Avantasia's last release was the two-part epic called The Metal Opera (issued in 2001 and 2002), which featured an impressive array of guest vocalists playing the various characters of the opera, including Michael Kiske (ex-Helloween), David DeFeis (Virgin Steele), Sharon Den Adel (Within Temptation), Kai Hansen (Gamma Ray), André Matos (Angra, Shaaman), Timo Tolkki (Stratovarius), Rob Rock (Impellitteri), and others. For more information on Avantasia, visit www.avantasia.net. 7/18/07 Swedish Melodic Death experts Soilwork finished work for their new, yet untitled album which will get in stores in autumn this year. "All I can say, it sounds excellent... great sound, great playing and a good mix of songs," says guitarist Ola Frenning on the band's official website www.soilwork.org The vocals of Björn "Speed" Strid were recorded in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada with the help of Strapping Young Lad mastermind Devin Townsend who already worked together with Soilwork on their 2002 effort Natural Born Chaos. Songtitles set to appear on the album include “Your Beloved Scapegoat”, “Light Discovering Darkness”, “The Snare Broken” and “The Pittsburgh Syndrome'”. Waysted, the reunited semi-obscure mid-'80s British heavy metal outfit led by UFO bassist Pete Way (hence the spelling of the group's name), has issued the following update: "Another year, another location, so time now methinks for another Waysted album. Don't you?” This time round the classic line-up are back together: Pete Way, Fin (vocals), Chris George (guitar) and Paul Haslin (drums). "Yes, Chris George has returned, but terms and conditions do apply and Pete has been made fully aware of them. Currently they are holed up somewhere on the south coast (U.K.) putting the finishing touches to a set of brand new songs, before entering the studio in two weeks to record the harsh reality due for release on U.K.'s Livewire Records in early October. Beware! Live dates will be announced in the near future. So there. Keep it sweet." Check out new band photos at this location Los Angeles-based band Onesidezero has announced a short headlining tour beginning on July 20 in Santa Barbara, CA and running through August 3 in Salt Lake City, UT. Onesidezero is supporting its recently released Ulrich Wild-produced (Static-X, Stabbing Westward, Taproot) sophomore album, which was released through Corporate Punishment Records. The CD is the long awaited follow-up to the band's critically acclaimed 2001 debut "Is This Room Getting Smaller?", which saw the group tour with the likes of Incubus, 311, Static-X, and Soulfly. The album's first single, "My Confession", has been picking up steam at radio with the track receiving steady rotation on XM Radio's Squizz channel and Los Angeles-based KROQ. Onesidezero tour dates: Jul. 20 - Velvet Jones, Santa Barbara CA Jul. 26 - The Malibu Inn, Malibu CA Jul. 27 - The Cheyanne Saloon, Las Vegas, NV Jul. 28 - The Dome, Bakersfield, CA Jul. 30 - The Boardwalk, Orangevale CA Jul. 31 - El Carazon (Graceland), Seattle, WA Aug. 01 - The Hawthorn Theatre, Portland, OR Aug. 03 - Club Vegas, Salt Lake City, UT Slayer has posted its new track, "The Final Six", on the band's MySpace page. The song is featured on the re-release of Slayer's Christ Illusion album (cover), which is due on July 24. The limited-edition set will also contain an alternate version of "Black Serenade". The reissue marks the band's first collaboration with new label home Columbia Records; SLAYER left Warner Bros. when longtime producer Rick Rubin jumped ship to head Columbia back in May. "This version of 'Black Serenade' is the version [guitarist] Jeff [Hanneman] originally wrote, and during the miscommunications of recording, it came out the way it did," guitarist Kerry King told MTV.com. "I like the original version better. And 'The Final Six' was a song that just wasn't finished in time for the record, because [frontman] Tom [Araya] had to head home for [gall-bladder] surgery." "The Final Six", said King, "isn't going to sound out of place, because it was written for Christ Illusion. So, it's just another song off of that album, and it's not separate at all. The track was recorded by the time Christ Illusion came out — we just had to have Tom sing on it." The reissue will also boast a bonus DVD called "Slayer on Tour '07", according to MTV.com. It will include the "Eyes of the Insane" video; a live rendition of the band's 1988 LP track "South of Heaven" that was shot in Vancouver, British Columbia, on last year's "Unholy Alliance" run; and a behind-the-scenes, five-minute documentary-style montage of footage shot earlier this year when the band performed in Florida and Australia. Bleed The Sky from Orange County, California have set Murder The Dance as title of their new upcoming second album and have issued the following update: "We have been extremely busy and focused on the progress of the second Bleed The Sky album. We finished all the guitars, bass, and drums for the album last week. We are currently working on all the vocal tracks at Christian's (Olde Wolbers, producer and guitar player of Fear Factory) studio. Everything sounds fucking awesome, and we are stoked for everyone to hear the new material. The album title will be Murder The Dance, featuring 12 tracks, and is slated for a fall release. Also on this album we had a good and long time friend of the band, Jeremy Hall, come in for guest vocals for a track. He is the vocalist for the southern California metal band Audkik, who have played multiple shows and drank great amounts of alcohol with us for years, and we have always been fans of their sound. We saw fit to have him come in and he did a great fucking job." Bleed The Sky released their first album Paradigm In Entropy in 2005. Dutch female-fronted symphonic metallers Within Temptation will embark on a North American headlining tour in September. The 13-stop tour will take the band from the Northeast to the Southwest in support of their July 24 Roadrunner release, The Heart of Everything. The dates are as follows: Sep. 05 - Paradise Rock Club - Boston, MA Sep. 07 - Irving Plaza - New York, NY Sep. 08 - Recher Theatre - Towson, MD Sep. 09 - Theater of the Living Arts - Philadelphia, PA Sep. 11 - Mod Club Theatre - Toronto, ONT Sep. 12 - House of Blues - Cleveland, OH Sep. 14 - St. Andrew's Hall - Detroit, MI Sep. 15 - House of Blues - Chicago, IL Sep. 16 - Station 4 - Saint Paul, MN Sep. 18 - Cervantes - Denver, CO Sep. 21 - Slim's - San Francisco, CA Sep. 22 - Avalon - Hollywood, CA Sep. 23 - Marquee Theatre - Tempe, AZ Nuclear Blast Records has set an August 28 North American release date for the new Epica album, entitled The Divine Conspiracy. The CD will be issued in in Europe on September 10 (September 7 in Germany). Check out the CD cover artwork at this location. An audio sample of the track "Menace of Vanity" has been posted on the group's MySpace page. 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." The Divine Conspiracy was mixed by Sascha Paeth and features a session appearance by God Dethroned drummer Ariën van Weesenbeek. Epica has yet to name a full-time drummer following the departure of Jeroen Simons in 2006. Epicas June 21, 2007 concert at The Underground in Cologne (Köln), Germany was filmed as part of the WDR TV network's Rockpalast series. The footage will air on August 6. As previously reported, Epica has been confirmed as the support act for Sonata Arctica on their upcoming European tour in November. dates have been released for Megadeth's upcoming U.S. headlining tour, with support from In This Moment and The Confession. The schedule is as follows: Sep. 04 - Anchorage, AK @ The Egan Conv Center Sep. 05 - Fairbanks, AK @ The Carlson Center Sep. 07 - Seattle, WA @ Moore Theatre Sep. 08 - Spokane, WA @ Big Easy Sep. 09 - Portland, OR @ Roseland Sep. 11 - San Francisco, CA @ Warfield Sep. 12 - Anaheim, CA @ Grove Sep. 14 - Las Vegas, NV @ House Of Blues Sep. 16 - Denver, CO @ Ogden Sep. 18 - Sauget, IL @ Pops Sep. 19 - Milwaukee, WI @ Eagles Club Sep. 21 - Indianapolis, IN @ Egyptian Room Sep. 22 - Columbus, OH @ Newport Music Hall Sep. 23 - Grand Rapids, MI @ Orbit Room Sep. 25 - Buffalo, NY @ Town Ballroom Sep. 26 - New York, NY @ Irving Plaza Sep. 28 - Providence, RI @ Lupo's Sep. 29 - Hampton Beach, NH @ Hampton Beach Casino Sep. 30 - Washington, DC @ 930 Club Oct. 01 - Richmond, VA @ Toad's Place Oct. 03 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Revolution Oct. 04 - Orlando, FL @ House Of Blues Oct. 05 - Myrtle Beach, SC @ House Of Blues Oct. 06 - Norfolk, VA @ Norva Tickets go on sale to the public starting this Friday, July 13. Pre-sales go on sale exclusively to MegaFanClub members Wednesday morning (July 11) at 10:00 a.m. local. Megadeth's latest CD, United Abominations, has sold 105,000 copies in the United States since its May 15 release, according to Nielsen SoundScan. In This Moment's video for the song "Beautiful Tragedy" has been posted at this location. The clip was directed by Robert Hall and shot in Santa Clarita, California this past spring. In This Moment's debut album, Beautiful Tragedy, was issued on March 20 via Century Media Records. The Confession released its album Requiem, produced by Avenged Sevenfold's M. Shadows, in June 2007 through Science Records and spent the summer on the Warped Tour. Ayreon, the brainchild of Dutch guitarist/composer Arjen Lucassen, has revealed the identity of the second singer who will guest on the band's upcoming album, tentatively due late 2007/early 2008: Simone Simons of Epica. Simone's recording session for the new Ayreon CD took place on July 5 at the Electric Castle studio. An acapella sample of Simone's vocal (without instruments added) can be heard here. Ayreon previously announced that Magali Luyten (Virus IV, Beautiful Sin) would also appear on the new album. Twelve vocalists have been confirmed so far, with a number of singers still to be added over the next few weeks. Ayreon’s last CD, Ayreon: The Human Equation, was released in 2004. It contained guest appearances by a number of acclaimed vocalists, including James LaBrie (Dream Theater), Mike Baker (Shadow Gallery), Mikael Åkerfeldt (Opeth), Eric Clayton (Saviour Machine), Devon Graves (Deadsoul Tribe, ex-Psychotic Waltz) and Devin Townsend (Strapping Young Lad). Launch Radio Networks reports: Die-hard "Van Hagar" fans can rejoice, as they're about to get a taste of both of their favorites: Sammy Hagar has just announced his U.S. tour dates, which will include opener — and ex-Van Halen bandmate — Michael Anthony's Mad Anthony Express. Hagar's headlining show will consist of three hours of the Cabo Wabo Village vibe that was so successful on last summer's Livin'It Up! tour. Mad Anthony Express will perform both early Van Halen songs and various early rock classics; the support act, Los Tres Gusanos will play early Sammy Hagar songs; and, finally, Hagar and Anthony will perform as The Other Half — as in "the other half of Van Halen " — to perform Hagar-era Van Halen tunes. Sammy Hagar tour dates (subject to change): Sep. 15 - Phoenix, AZ - Beauty of A Bonzer Benefit Sep. 29 - Novato, CA - Rock 'n Blues By the Lake Benefit Oct. 19 - Biloxi, MS - Beau Rivage Resort & Casino Oct. 20 - Houston, TX - Verizon Wireless Theater Oct. 23, 24 - Dallas, TX - Lakewood Theater Oct. 25 - Tulsa, OK - Brady Theater Oct. 27 - Bloomington, IL - The Theatre at US Cellular Coliseum Oct. 28 - Indianapolis, IN - Murat Theatre Oct. 31 - South Bend, IN - Morris Performing Arts Center Nov. 02, 03 - Detroit, MI - Fox Theatre Nov. 04 - Grand Rapids, MI - Devos Hall Nov. 06 - Green Bay, WI - Oneida Casino Nov. 07 - Milwaukee, WI - Riverside Theatre Nov. 09 - Akron, OH - E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall Nov. 10 - Chicago, IL - Chicago Theatre Nov. 11 - Joliet, IL - Rialto Square Theatre Nov. 13, 14 - St. Louis, MO - Fox Theater Nov. 16 - Kansas City, MO - Uptown Theater Dec. 01 - Anaheim, CA - Private Event - Grove of Anaheim Powerhouse heavy metal vocalist Rob Rock (ex-Impelliteri, Driver, Joshua) will release his new solo album, "Garden of Chaos", in Japan on August 22 via Victor Entertainment/JVC Music. The CD was produced by Rob Rock guitarist CJ Grimmark and co-produced by Roy Z (Judas Priest, Bruce Dickinson, Halford) and Rob Rock. Rob wrote seven of the 11 tracks with longtime partner Roy Z, and the other tracks were co-written by Rob with Gus G. (Firewind), CJ Grimmark, Bob Rossi, and Liza Rock. The album was mixed and mastered at Hansen Studios in Denmark by Jacob Hansen. JVC/Victor Entertainment Japan released Rob Rock's last CD, Holy Hell, with four bonus tracks on September 22, 2005: Ride the Wind, featuring a Gus G. (Firewind) guitar solo; "Lost in a World", originally recorded and mixed during the Rage of Creation (2000) sessions; "I’m a Warrior" (alternate mix) and "First Winds of the End of Time" (alternate mix) (alternate mixes by Roy Z). Holy Hell was released in the U.S. on September 6, 2005 via Candlelight/Caroline Records. The CD features contributions from Bobby Jarzombek (drums; Halford, Iced Earth, Riot), Carljohan Grimmark (guitar; Narnia), Andreas Olsson (bass; Narnia), Bob Rossi (guitar), Rick Renstrom (guitar), and producer/guitarist Roy Z. Special guests include Edguy singer Tobias Sammet and Italian keyboard sensation Mistheria. According to a posting on the official Children Of Bodom fan site Scythes Of Bodom, the band will put on a 10th anniversary bash in Helsinki, Finland in November. The group's debut album, Something Wild, was released in Finland in November 1997. Commented guitarist Alexi Laiho: "We're planning to arrange a two-night event where we will perform on the first night. Tickets will be sold even though there will be many invited guests. On the second night we'll concentrate on partying more privately, but we might indeed end up on stage, at least for small moments. Anyhow, other bands will perform on the second night. The exact date for the (Helsinki) party has not been decided yet, but we're aiming for November." In other news, Scythes Of Bodom has revealed three songtitles that are set to appear on the band's forthcoming album: Tie My Rope (which was recorded in May for Bam Margera's "Bam Margera Presents…Viva La Bands, Vol. 2" compilation), "Roundtrip 2 Hell And Back" and "Pretty For The Devil". A total of five tracks have been completed thus far and the band plans to enter the studio in October to begin recording the effort for a tentative March 2008 release. SPV has set the following release dates for Iced Earth's new studio album, Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part I: Germany: September 7 Rest of Europe: September 10 North America: September 11 Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part I (cover artwork) expands the "Something Wicked" storyline first introduced in the trilogy of the same name appearing on the 1998 release, Something Wicked This way Comes. Framing Armageddon will be followed in February/March 2008 by the band's ninth full-length studio release, tentatively titled Revelation Abomination - Something Wicked Part 2 , continuing where Framing Armageddon leaves off. According to MelodicRock.com, Van Halen is preparing to hit the road in the U.S. beginning in September. The group's lineup for the trek is expected to include David Lee Roth (vocals), Eddie Van Halen (guitar), Alex Van Halen (drums) and Eddie's 16-year-old son Wolfgang Van Halen (bass). Wolfgang Van Halen, the projected replacement for VH bassist Michael Anthony, told People magazine in April 2007 that he wasn't disappointed there wasn’t' going to be a Van Halen tour this summer following his father's decision to check himself into rehab. "My dad's taking care of himself," he said. "I also think I'm too young for the experience, because I know there are a lot of bad things out there." Eddie Van Halen issued a statement addressed to fans in early March announcing that he was seeking treatment because "at the moment I do not feel that I can give you my best. "That's why I have decided to enter a rehabilitation facility to work on myself, so that in the future I can deliver the 110 percent that I feel I owe you and want to give you," the statement said. Back in January, Eddie Van Halen told Rolling Stone magazine about Wolfgang, "Wait until you hear this kid play. I pick him up from school every day and we jam. We've got a shredding bass player now that's laying down the law for Alex [Van Halen, drums], so I get to weave in and out." Van Halen was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in March. Stream Of Passion members Johan van Stratum (bass), Davy Mickers (drums) and Marcela Bovio (vocals, lyrics, violin) have announced the addition of guitarist Stephan Schultz to the group's ranks. More information on Stephan is available at this location. Stream Of Passion parted ways with founding members Arjen Lucassen (guitar), Lori Linstruth (guitar) and Alejandro Millán (piano), back in March. The band recently added keyboardist Jeffrey Revet and guitarist Eric Hazebroek. Stream Of Passion’s debut album, Embrace the Storm, was released in Holland in October 2005 via Sony/BMG Benelux. The CD was issued in the rest of Europe and the U.S./Canada via InsideOut Music. Heavy metal heroes Testament have inked a deal with Heavy Metal Record Company Giants Nuclear Blast to distribute brand new Testament music featuring the killer lineup of original members Eric Peterson, Chuck Billy, Alex Skolnick, Greg Christian and the addition of monster drummer Nick Barker (Dimmu Borgir, Cradle Of Filth). "We are very happy that we are signed to one of the best metal labels in the world. It's a great feeling that we are in a house that will not crumble" says band vocalist Chuck Billy. "This is going to be our best record to date, and it will be the essence of what Testament is. Nuclear Blast is the perfect label for us. They eat, breathe and sleep, metal. I am excited also because a lot of my favorite bands are on Nuclear Blast, giving us the opportunity to be label-mates with them. Finally we are coming home!" stated Eric Peterson. Obituary have finalized dates on their upcoming US tour. Support for the shows will be Alabama Thunderpussy, Full Blown Chaos and Hemlock. The tour will be in immediate support of the band's new album, Xecutioner's Return, that is set hit stores nationwide on August 28. Candlelight Records in cooperation with ITunes will release an advance single, the album track "Evil Ways," on July 31. It will be fans' first opportunity to hear the new material. 09/11 Jaxx Nite Club - Springfield VA 09/12 BB King Blues Club - New York NY 09/13 Funhaus - Toronto ON 09/15 ADC Performance Center - Southbridge MA 09/16 Club Infinity - Williamsville NY 09/19 Emerald Theatre - Mt. Clemens MI 09/20 Peabody's Down Under - Cleveland OH 09/21 The Rock - Maplewood MN 09/22 Indianapolis Metalfest - Indianapolis IN 09/24 Aztlan Theatre - Denver CO 09/26 House of Blues - Anaheim CA 09/28 Bourbon Street - Concord CA 09/30 Knitting Factory - Los Angeles CA 10/03 Emos - Austin TX 10/04 Granada Theatre - Dallas TX 10/05 Meridian - Houston TX 10/06 The Hangar - New Orleans LA 5/25/07 Dutch female-fronted symphonic metal band Epica has signed a deal with Nuclear Blast Records and have set The Divine Conspiracy as the title of their new album, due August/September. The CD, which is currently being mixed 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. 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 metaler’s 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'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 last album, Consign to Oblivion, was recorded in early 2005 and features a guest contribution from Kamelot vocalist Roy Khan. Vocalist/bassist Steve Rowe of the Australian Christian death metaler’s Mortification has posted the following message on the band's official web site: "As it stands today, it looks quite definite that we will tour in the U.S. and Europe in October and November. However, nothing is 100% just yet. Tour costs may push the release of [the] 'Live Humanitarian' [DVD] into early next year. This is why we are presenting the special half-price offer on the reissue DVD. "The Soundmass digipak re-issue of the '91 self-titled album has now been put forward to early July. However, their re-print of the classic 'gory' cover Mortification t-shirt is now available at the Soundmass.com store." Rowe previously stated about the upcoming "Live Humanitarian" DVD. "The audio sounds MASSIVE! It was recorded live at the deluxe but intimate Imax Theatre in Perth, Australia late last year. It is a Mortification 17-year celebration featuring 24-track digital live recording and a seven-digital-camera shoot. It will be coming out in Dolby 5.1 Surround Sound. This is the first full-length Mortification show ever to be done this well. 'Live Planetarium' (1993) had only half the show on video (now re-issued and available on DVD) and the full show was only on the CD. This is a huge undertaking but with seven cameras and Surround Sound, it will surpass any past official Mortification releases." Mortification’s most recent studio album, Erasing the Goblin was released in 2006 through MCM Music. "Extra" profiled Poison singer Bret Michaels, who is one of the men being offered on the show's "Eligible Bachelor" contest. Watch a clip, where Bret talks about what he looks for in a woman, here. As previously reported, Michaels will be looking for love in a new VH1 series from the producers of the network's hit "Flavor of Love". According to Reuters, the cable network is set to debut a 10-episode reality series titled "Rock of Love with Bret Michaels" in July. The show will feature Michaels looking for a woman who can keep up with his rock 'n' roll lifestyle and not become jealous of his one true passion — performing — which is said to be the reason for and destruction of most of his relationships. The women, who will live with Michaels in his "Los Angeles rock palace," will be put through various challenges in a test of their devotion to him as well as their understanding of everything rock 'n' roll. Those who win these challenges will join Michaels on "wild and exclusive excursions," while "those who can't hang like true backstage VIPs will be escorted out in bona fide rock star fashion," VH1 said. Norwegian melodic thrashers Susperia have set a US release date of 19th June 2007 for their new studio album Cut From Stone, through Candlelight Records. The album was released in Europe in April, where it entered the Norwegian National Artist Charts at number 18. Cut From Stone was recorded at Strand Studio, Oslo, Norway during 2006. The mix was completed by Daniel Bergstrand (In Flames, Meshuggah, Soilwork) at Dug Out Studios in Uppsala, Sweden, whilst the production was handled by Susperia and Marius Strand. The Oslo based five piece - vocalist Athera, bass guitarist Memnock, drummer Tjodalv, guitarists Elvorn and Cyrus - have assembled a collection of aggressive hard hitting metal songs with a melodic edge. A maelstrom of vicious riffs and melody lies at the heart of the bands powerhouse performance on the eleven new songs that make up Cut From Stone. The full track listing is ’More‘, ’Lackluster Day’, ‘The Clone’, ‘Distant Memory’ ‘Release’, ‘Life Deprived’, ‘Between The Lines’, ‘Bound To Come’, ‘Under’, ‘Brother’, ‘Cut From Stone’. Though constantly underrated and often overlooked, Susperia have delivered on the promise shown on their last album, Unlimited. Their new recording represents a further step forward for the band as they continue to carve out their own niche in the metal fraternity. Cut From Stone is the follow up to the bands’ 2004 TABU / Candlelight debut ‘Unlimited’, which has become their best selling release to date. Their first two albums were released through Nuclear Blast. Susperia subsequently released the Devil May Care EP in 2005 which reached Number 19 on Norway's official 'Hit List', making the band the first home-grown act in the metal genre to achieve a Top 20 hit in the country. On June 5th, America's beloved heavy metal flag bearers Iced Earth return to action and set the stage for their upcoming double-album epic! The Overture Of The Wicked EP features the brand new, hard-hitting track "Ten Thousand Strong" along with a special 2007 version of the Something Wicked trilogy (originally appearing as the closing to 1998's classic Something Wicked This Way Comes album.) This release is the prelude to the full-length album Framing Armageddon (Something Wicked Part 1), coming this fall. Led as always by guitarist/composer Jon Schaffer and featuring the soaring vocal mastery of Tim Owens, Iced Earth returns stronger than ever and are about to embark on the most ambitious journey of their career. Schaffer explains: "The Something Wicked trilogy (comprised of the songs "Prophecy", "Birth of the Wicked", and "The Coming Curse") has been completely rerecorded. From the ground up this is a more vicious and more atmospheric version of the epic piece. 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." "For those of you that aren't familiar with the old version or the Something Wicked story at all, you should check it out. The original trilogy is just an overview of the story that begins 12,000 years ago and leads us to modern day. You should look at the trilogy as an introduction to this whole epic. What is coming next in the two parts is a far more in depth look into this very tragic, heavy and apocalyptic sci-fi/fantasy story." A full tour of North America is in the planning stages - more details will be available soon. Riverside, CA-based quintet Suicide Silence has put the finishing touches on its much-anticipated debut album, due this summer via Century Media Records. This scorching new effort was recorded with acclaimed producer John Travis (Static-X), while the renowned Tue Madsen (HIMSA, The Haunted) handled mixing duties. The newly recorded version of the fan favorite, "Bludgeoned to Death", is now available on the band's MySpace page and is also featured on their upcoming disc. Suicide Silence is currently annihilating crowds across the U.S. alongside Bury Your Dead, Stick To Your Guns and Since The Flood, which leads them immediately into a short Canadian stint with Dead To Fall and Stick To Your Guns. Commented vocalist Mitch Lucker: "We just heard the final mix of the record amidst our current tour with Bury Your Dead. The amazing combination of John Travis and Tue Madsen captured the intensity of our live show within the confines of the record, which is exactly what we were aiming for. We hope the fans enjoy the listening to the record as much as we enjoyed recording it. For now, we've uploaded a re-recorded version of the song 'Bludgeoned to Death' that will appear on the record and give everyone an idea as to what they're in for." Megadeth mainman Dave Mustaine has posted the following message in the "Forums" section of the band's official web site: "We just got back recently from the Heaven and Hell tour and are celebrating our new release 'United Abominations'. It will be just over a week until we fly overseas to celebrate with you in Europe and the U'K. "I can't tell you how excited we are with the new record and your reaction to it. We are seeing tremendous interest around the world and can't wait to play the new songs for you. "Just so you know, we are looking to visit Euro/U.K. for the next month, ending in Tel Aviv; go out for a brief tour in the states the month of September or so; go internationally touring again the month of November; and maybe some special shows in December. This is all subject to change — so don't hold me to it. "Gigantour will not be happening until 2008 due to time constraints, and we will let you know upon further information and scheduling permits. "Thanks again to Black Sabbath and Machine Head and Down for the last couple of months touring time together. Best wishes to Heaven and Hell overseas, too. "Lastly, I really enjoyed meeting everyone on the last tour; especially the time in the interviews (because those usually sucked in the past)." Fireball Ministry frontman Rev. James A. Rota II has issued the following update: "First and foremost, we are in the stages of writing a new album. It's coming along great. It's going to be a bit different than our last three. We've definitely decided to take the band to some new territory, but it's definitely Fireball Ministry. Emily, Johny, John and I are holed up here writing and fighting our way through this material. Might even see some of it surface at the show we just booked with our old friends Fu Manchu at the Malibu Inn on June 23rd. If you happen to be in Malibu, CA that night come on out. "I've also been working on an as-yet-untitled side project with Neil Fallon [Clutch], Jess Margera [CKY], Dave Bone and Jason Diamond. We recorded four songs that are waiting to get the Neil treatment and are planning to release an EP sometime this summer. Andrew Alekel, producer extraordinaire, has been at the knobs for this one. Andrew is the kind of guy that says, 'You know what would sound sick on this song that Martin Birch guitar sound from British Steel.' Next thing you know it's dialed in, minus the playing of K.K. and Glenn, of course. Check out some pics of us rehearsing and one of us boozing after the jump (minus Jason, sadly)." Fireball Ministry's 2005 release, Their Rock Is Not Our Rock, featured the single "Sundown", which received regular airplay on MTV2's "Headbanger's Ball" and was performed live on NBC's "Last Call with Carson Daly". 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." Therion recently announced the departure of vocalist Mats Levén (Yngwie Malmsteen, Krux, Treat, At Vance) 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). Therion's latest studio album, the dual-disc Gothic Kaballah, was released in North America on February 6 via Nuclear Blast Records. After much speculation and anticipation following the airing of their "Behind the Music" episode on VH1 last spring, multiplatinum hard rock act RATT with vocalist Stephen Pearcy, guitarist Warren DeMartini and drummer Bobby Blotzer will grace the stage together for the first time since 1999. Plans for not only a U.S. summer tour but a full-fledged comeback are being mapped out now as the band prepares to hit the road with Poison. The band's own tour dates will extend into the fall and may also include shows in Canada, Europe, Japan, South America and Australia. Joining the band onstage will be bassist Robbie Crane and guitarist John Corabi. A full itinerary is still being finalized, but Poison and RATT will join forces for a summer trek that is scheduled to begin June 13 at the Bi Lo Center in Greenville, S.C., and wind around the country through the end of August. The tour, which brings the two bands onstage together for the first time since 1999, will visit major U.S. cities such as Boston, Detroit, New York, Oklahoma City and Los Angeles. The band has recently aligned with Carl Stubner, CEO of Sanctuary Artist Management (ZZ TOP, Mick Fleetwood/co-manager of Fleetwood Mac, Tommy Lee/Rock Star Supernova, Paulina Rubio, Jack's Mannequin) and is booked by Jay Frey at Paradise Artists. RATT made their mark in the early '80s going "Round and Round" with a string of hit songs, videos and four consecutive multiplatinum albums (over 16 million albums sold worldwide). Their arena-filling live shows set the standard for all bands to follow. Creating anthems for the youth of that era, their music and performances maintain a timeless quality to this day.   4/23/07 Queensryche will join Heaven And Hell tour in the fall. Although the U.S. leg of the Heaven And Hell tour begins this Sunday, April 22, in Phoenix, Arizona, Queensryche will join the quartet of Ronnie James Dio, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Vinny Appice in September after a few solo dates (including dates in Japan in late May/early June) scattered amongst rehearsals this summer. Last summer, Queensryche went on an ambitious 74-date trek in support of Operation: Mindcrime II (on Rhino Records) where they performed both Mindcrime albums in their entirety from beginning to end. This year's tour will contain hits and rarities. Queensryche will release the Mindcrime at the Moore (cover) double CD ($24.98) and double DVD ($29.99) on June 26 via all physical retail outlets (on Rhino Records) and www.rhino.com The album will also be available at all digital retail outlets for a suggested retail price of $14.99. An iTunes exclusive version featuring a video of "The Chase" with Ronnie James Dio will be available for $15.99. The CD includes singer and chief songwriter Geoff Tate along with guitarists Michael Wilton and Mike Stone, bassist Eddie Jackson and drummer Scott Rockenfield performing all 32 mindcrime tracks plus a two-song encore featuring their signature hits — "Jet City Woman" and "Walk In The Shadows". The DVD features the same performance expanded with bonus material including a tour documentary, a featurette on the band's "Rock & Ride Across America" charity motorcycle ride for the VH1 Save The Music Foundation, and a live performance of "The Chase" from the Gibson Amphitheatre in Los Angeles, featuring Ronnie James Dio's only public appearance as Dr. X. For more information, click here. Tesla has set a June 5 release date for its "covers" album, entitled Real to Reel. The two-disc set will contain 25 tracks, and will only be available at the band's live shows. Songs that are expected to appear on the CD include: Aerosmith - Seasons Of Wither Alice Cooper - Is It My Body Bachmann Turner Overdrive - Not Fragile Bad Company - Shooting Star Black Sabbath - War Pigs Eric Clapton/Derek And The Dominoes - Bell Bottom Blues James Gang - Walk Away Led Zeppelin - Thank You Lynard Skynyrd - Saturday Night Special Montrose - Make It Last Peter Frampton - Do You (Feel Like We Do) Robin Trower - Day Of The Eagle Sly & The Family Stone - I Want To Take You Higher Temptations - Ball Of Confusion The Beatles - I've Got A Feeling The Rolling Stones - Honky Tonk Woman The Rolling Stones - Street Fighting Man Thin Lizzy - Bad Reputation Traffic - Dear Mr. Fantasy UFO - Rock Bottom Uriah Heep - Stealin' ZZ Top - Beer Drinkers, Hell Raisers At noon on Thursday, May 17, 2007, guitarist extraordinaire "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott, will be posthumously inducted into Hollywood's RockWalk, the only sidewalk gallery dedicated to honoring those artists who have made a significant impact and lasting contribution to the growth and evolution of rock 'n' roll. A bronze bust of Abbott will be unveiled during the ceremony and later installed along the RockWalk posthumous inductee wall, which also includes Robert Johnson, Elvis Presley and Bill Graham among others. Abbott will be located directly adjacent to other equally accomplished musicians and innovators on the RockWalk such as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Carlos Santana, Johnny Cash, Van Halen, Bonnie Raitt, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, The Ramones, Marvin Gaye, James Brown, Brian Wilson, Stevie Wonder and John Lee Hooker. One of metal's finest guitar players, Dimebag Darrell Abbott was born on August 20, 1966 in Dallas, Texas. Born into a musical family, his father was a country and western songwriter and producer, Dimebag Darrell's interest in hard rock and heavy metal began to grow upon his discovery of KISS and their guitarist Ace Frehley. He entered numerous guitar competitions in the Dallas area which resulted in him winning an instrument that he would eventually become closely associated with, the Dean ML. In 1981, Dimebag Darrell along with his brother, drummer Vinnie Paul, formed what would turn out to be one of the most popular heavy metal bands of the 1990s. Beginning with Cowboys from Hell, Pantera touched off a string of classic metal releases; Vulgar Display of Power followed and with it, brought the band star status and domination in the hard rock/metal music community for a decade. The band received four Grammy nominations, platinum for The Great Southern Trendkill, Cowboys from Hell and Pantera's Greatest Hits and double platinum for Vulgar Display of Power and Far Beyond Driven, which had its debut at No. 1 on the Billboard album chart. Released in 2000, Reinventing the Steel was the final studio effort from the band. Darrell and Vinnie went on to form Damageplan, releasing New Found Power in 2004. During a Damageplan performance in Columbus, Ohio, on December 8, 2004, Dimebag was fatally shot at the age of 38. Dimebag Darrell Abbott will always be remembered as one of the most influential guitarists in modern metal music. The induction event is free and open to the public. A full-length audio stream of OZZY OSBOURNE's new single, "I Don't Wanna Stop", is available at the following links: Windows Media, Quicktime, Shockwave Flash. "I Don't Wanna Stop" comes off Ozzy's new album, Black Rain, due on May 22 via Epic Records. Other song titles set to appear on the CD include "Not Going Away", "Thank God For The Almighty Dollar", "Civilize The Universe", "Black Rain", "Countdown's Begun" and "Trap Door". Dutch female-fronted symphonic metal outfit After Forever will embark on a North American tour in October. Confirmed dates so far are as follows: Oct. 07 - Nashville, TN @ The Muse Oct. 09 - Houston, TX @ The Meridian (supporting Sonata Arctica) Oct. 10 - San Antonio, TX @ White Rabbit (supporting Finntroll) Oct. 12 - Cedar Falls, IA @ The Reverb Oct. 13 - St Paul, MN @ Station 4 Oct. 14 - Mokena, IL @ Pearl Room (supporting Overkill) Oct. 15 - Cleveland, OH @ Peabody's Down Under Oct. 16 - Toronto, ON @ Opera House Oct. 17 - Ottawa, ON @ Mavericks Oct. 18 - Montreal, QUE @ Club Soda Oct. 19 - Bedford, NH @ Marks Place Oct. 20 - Springfield, VA @ Jaxx Oct. 21 - New York, NY @ B.B. King Blues Club & Grill (supporting Overkill) Tickets for Oct. 7, Oct. 12-13, Oct. 15-20 are on sale now through EnterTheVault.com exclusively until May 4, at which point they all go on sale through normal ticketing systems. Tickets for Oct. 9-10, Oct. 14 and Oct. 20 are all on sale already through EnterTheVault.com and all normal ticketing systems. After Forever's video for its new single, "Energize Me", has been posted online at YouTube.com. The clip was shot in February in Amsterdam, Holland. The "Energize Me" single was released on March 23, featuring the songs "Energize Me" (radio edit), "Energize Me" (album version), "Sweet Enclosure" (non-album track). The cover artwork for After Forever's new self-titled album has been posted online at this location. Former Iced Earth frontman Matt Barlow has reportedly joined Danish metaler’s Pyramaze as the replacement for Lance King. The news was revealed in the brand new issue of the German magazine Rock Hard, which features an in-depth interview with Barlow and a short question-and-answer session with Pyramaze guitarist/songwriter Michael Kammeyer. A rough English-language translation of the Rock Hard articles can be found at this location. Pyramaze split with Lance King last November due to "personal and professional reasons." The group is currently working on material for its third album, tentatively due next spring. Pyramaze's latest album, Legend of the Bone Carver, was released last year via Massacre Records (Europe) and Nightmare Records (USA and Canada). Dokken mainman/namesake Don Dokken has issued the following update: "The boys and I are currently in the studio working on [the new Dokken album] 'Lightning Strikes Again' and it should be out sometime in September. We will be playing various festivals this summer and we all hope you will make it to one of our shows in your area. I will post our tour dates as soon as they are confirmed. "For those of you that have picked up our '1981 Live' CD, I hope you like it. I think it's pretty cool and very punchy sounding considering it was recorded a zillion years ago. Also our 'Unchain the Night' video is now out on DVD with three bonus videos as well as Mick [Brown, drums] and I doing commentary. Our commentary is pretty funny to watch. Mick was really on a roll that day. We will be going on tour in Europe in September and I will be posting those dates soon. I've been seeing a few blogs on the Internet lately that I got married, and although I do live with my girlfriend, neither one of us are fans of traditional marriage. So stop congratulating me! "I hope to see you this summer out there at the shows. It should be a fun summer. See you soon!" Rob Zombie's first-ever live album is scheduled for release in August via Geffen. The CD was recorded over several nights during the band's Educated Horses tour and will include a 36-page super-deluxe book of never-before-seen live pictures and a DVD of live footage and animated videos. It was mixed by Zombie and producer Scott Humphrey. As previously reported, Zombie is putting together a White Zombie box set containing "everything we ever recorded," according to the singer. "I am currently transferring all the early shit from the original tapes," he previously said. "No remixing going on here — everything will be as it was originally recorded. Don't know when this box set will be available, but it is slowly moving forward. This will be the final word on White Zombie." Zombie's remake of the classic horror film Halloween is scheduled to hit theatres in August. His previous credits as a screenwriter and director are 2003's House of 1000 Corpses and 2005's The Devil's Rejects. Rob Zombie's first-ever career retrospective, "Past, Present & Future", has sold more than a million copies in the U.S., according to Nielsen SoundScan. The two-disc set, which was released in September 2003 through Geffen Records, contains a CD of 19 digitally remastered selections and a DVD of 10 music videos, including three that were previously unreleased. Poison has posted four songs from its upcoming album of cover songs, featuring many of their favorite rock classics. Poison'd, the band's first new studio album since 2002, will be released June 5 on CD and digitally by EMI America Records/Capitol. Go to Poison’s official MySpace page page to hear the groups' versions of The Romantics' "What I Like About You", David Bowie's "Suffragette City", Sweet’s "Little Willy" and The Marshall Tucker Band's "Can't You See". Featuring Poison’s original members, Bret Michaels (vocals), C.C. DeVille (guitar), Rikki Rockett (drums) and Bobby Dall (bass), Poison'd presents the band's first new studio recordings since 2002's "Hollyweird". Produced by Don Was at Hensen Recording Studios in Hollywood, "Poison'd" packs 13 explosive tracks, including new recordings of David Bowie's "Suffragette City", The Cars' "You're Just What I Needed", The Romantics' "What I Like About You", Sweet’s "Little Willy", Marshall Tucker Band's "Can't You See" and The Rollong Stones' "Dead Flowers". Some of Poison's best previously recorded covers are also featured on Poison'd, including KISS' "Rock and Roll All Nite", Grand Funk Railroad's "We're An American Band" and Loggins and Messina's "Your Mama Don't Dance".   3/15/07 The following message has been posted on Metallica's official web site: "Metallica left the comfort of HQ this week to descend upon the greater Los Angeles area to begin recording their ninth original album. This is the first time they've recorded outside of the Bay Area since they spent an eternity at One On One Studios recording the 'Black' album in '90 and '91. The last couple days have been devoted to each band member working out the right sounds, including Lars [Ulrich, drums] who remembered to turn on the snare and Kirk [Hammett, guitar] who played a solo! The big, shiny red button was finally pushed today — and the wait begins.' Check put pictures from the recording studio at Metallica.com. Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich told a New York radio program on March 2 that the band will lay down 14 songs for its ninth studio album, which the group officially began recording on March 12. Unlike the troubled, turbulent sessions for the band's last album, 2003's St. Anger, Ulrich told Launch that pre-production for the new effort has had a whole different vibe. "It's frighteningly tame (laughs)," he said. "The four of us show up and we hang out and we have a great time, and there are no psychiatrists in sweaters, there are no film crews, it's very much like it used to be. It's pretty mellow around here. All that 'St. Anger' stuff seems like a movie (laughs)." The group plans to work in the studio until early June, take a break for its European tour, then finish recording in August. As for whether Metallica will release the new album in 2007, Ulrich said, "I'd like to try and get it out this year; I hope we can get it out this year. If it doesn't come out this year, then it will be out at the very beginning of next year." Edguy frontman Tobias Sammet is currently working on the third installment of his solo project Avantasia. The album is being produced by Sascha Paeth, who also played the rhythm guitar on the CD. The drums were laid down by KISS/Alice Cooper drummer Eric Singer and the bass is being handled by Tobias himself. Commented Sammet: "I can't tell you how happy I am to be able to do this. There is so much creativity in the studio and the material sounds so great. There is so much variety — we got fast songs, mid-tempo songs, a few ballads. There are modern elements, epic elements, classic elements. There's no limits [to] our creativity and I feel blessed that I am allowed to work with the most talented sidekicks I could ever dream of." The new Avantasia album will be a concept album featuring different singers singing different characters in a story. But the concept itself won't be a sequel to the first two Avantasia albums. Avantasia’s last release was the two-part epic called The Metal Opera (issued in 2001 and 2002), which featured an impressive array of guest vocalists playing the various characters of the opera, including Michael Kiske (ex-Helloween), David DeFeis (Virgin Steele), Sharon Den Adel (Within Temptation), Kai Hansen (Gamma Ray), André Matos (Angra, Shaaman), Timo Tolkki (Stratovarius), Rob Rock (Warrior, Impellitteri), and others. For more information on Avantasia, visit www.avantasia.net. Swedish melodic metaler’s Nocturnal Rites have finished filming a video for the new song "Never Again". According to bassist Nils Eriksson, the track "is a sort of midtempo, in-your-face, heavy-slab-of-meat kind of thing." Nocturnal Rites will release its new album later in the year via Century Media Records. Eriksson says, "This album feels really different, fresh and new. Still it sounds like us, in some weird way. Guess we can't escape the Nocturnal Rites ghost. However, we have some REALLY cool songs on the way." As previously reported, Nocturnal Rites has been confirmed for this year's edition of the Sweden Rock Festival; set to take place June 6-9 in Sölvesborg, Sweden. Nocturnal Rites' last album, Grand Illusion, was released in September 2005 via Century Media Records. The follow-up to 2004's New World Messiah was recorded and mixed at Toontrack Studio in Umeå, Sweden and features guest appearances by Stefan Elmgren (Hammerfall), Jens Johansson (Stratovarius), Henrik Danhage (Evergrey), Kristoffer W. Olivius (Naglfar) and the Swedish cross-country skiing world champion, Per Elofsson. British gothic metaler’s Paradise Lost will release their 11th album, "In Requiem", in the U.S. on June 5 via Century Media Records. The artwork for the CD was created by Seth Siro Anton, who was the artwork designer for the group's last album, "Paradise Lost". The CD was produced by Rhys Fulber (Fear Factory, Front Line Assembly) and mixed by Mike Fraser (Slipknot) and marks a return to their heavy trademark sound. "The melancholic atmosphere is as oppressive as ever, but this go round the gloom is fused with an equal amount of dense, punishing riffs," according to a press release. As previously reported, Paradise Lost has been confirmed as the support act for Nightwish on their upcoming North American tour. The trek will be only Paradise Lost's third visit to the U.S. after previously supporting Morbid Angel and Opeth. Commented Paradise Lost singer Nick Holmes: "We can't wait to get to the U.S. on a great tour, and try and make an impact after years of focusing on Europe." Paradise Lost will play an exclusive show in London at Camden's Koko on April 12. The band will perform songs from across their ten-album career which will be filmed for the definitive DVD, entitled From Gothic to Paradise Lost, to be released later this year. Commented Nick Holmes: "We're all really excited to be playing this show at Koko. After playing so many venues in our career it'll be cool to play a different venue. It's going be a really special show as we're playing songs spanning our whole career and hopefully we'll be able to play something very new for you. The show will be filmed for our new DVD so you'd better get those lighters ready! Come along — it should be a night to remember." G.U.N./ Sony/BMG in Europe and Abacus Recordings in the U.K. and the U.S released the band's last album, Paradise Lost. Sevendust are rumored to be one of the bands who will join headliners Korn at the 2007 Family Values Tour. Other acts that are expected to appear include Evanescence and Aiden, according to a promotional e-card sent out by Korn's label, Virgin Records. An official announcement regarding this year's Family Values tour will be made by Korn on March 24 at korn.com. Sevendust's latest album, Alpha, sold 42,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 14 on next week's The Billboard 200 chart. Fresh off a triumphant sold-out tour of Japan, Michael Schenker Group is returning to the U.S. and Canada for a summer tour. The legendary guitarist will be performing timeless classics from all stages of his illustrious career, including Scorpions, UFO and MSG, to commemorate his Tales of Rock 'n' Roll, which is out now. Support on all dates will come from San Francisco-based guitar virtuoso Doug Doppler, signed to Steve Vai's Favored Nations label. This tour will run June 17 to July 21. Exact cities and dates will be announced soon. Michael Schenker Group’s current touring lineup is as follows: Michael Schenker (guitar) Wayne Findlay (guitar, keyboards) Jari Tiura (vocals) Bodo Schopf (drums) Frank Rummler (bass) Michael Schenker Group released Tales of Rock 'n' Roll, a special CD to celebrate the band's 25-year anniversary, on August 1 via Locomotive Records. The CD contains Michael Schenker's signature riffage on new cuts featuring an all-star assembly of singers who have recorded with Schenker over the past quarter-century: Graham Bonnet, Gary Barden, Robin McAuley, Kelly Keeling, Leif Sundin, Chris Logan and Michael's most recent vocalist, Jari Tiura. UFO's Pete Way chips in with bass for this special occasion and Racer X vocalist Jeff Martin is behind the kit. Exodus guitarist Gary Holt has issued the following update: "I'd like to take a moment here and welcome back Tom Hunting to Exodus' drum throne. It was always understood that when and if Tom was ever ready to resume his drumming duties for the band, his seat would be waiting. Paul [Bostaph] always knew this, and was the first to say it upon joining the band. Paul and Tom have always been good friends and we, as a band, cannot thank Paul enough for his services on Shovel Headed Kill Machine and all the subsequent tours he did to support that album. We had a great time and kicked many asses along the way. Paul has given this reunion his whole-hearted endorsement with no mixed blessings and is happy to see Tom back in the fold. Now, some band out there may just become the luckiest bunch of suckers in the world, because one hell of a drum is on the market! We wish Paul all the best, and he will always be a member of the extended Exodus family. "That having been said, we are so excited to have Tom back in the band he co-founded. He, other than the time spent out of the band, is the only drummer I've ever played with, and he and I have an unspoken language of metal that I am stoked to continue. We are hard at work on the new songs, and this shit is the best and heaviest music we've ever written. I've kept quiet until now — because everyone always brags about how great their new shit is — but this is no boast. This album will redefine thrash metal as we know it. We will be hitting the studio mid-May with Mr. Andy Sneap. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED." Due to an overwhelming response to its maiden tour of North America in 2005 with Hammerfall, Germany's beloved Edguy is bringing its "Rocket Ride World Tour" to the western hemisphere in support of its 2006 release of the same name, which climbed to the #27 slot on Billboard's Hard Music chart. The tour will launch on Tuesday, September 11 in Hartford, Connecticut and will include Canada's Into Eternity, Norway's Susperia, plus a special guest. Exclusive pre-sale tickets for Edguy will be available online on Friday, March 16 through April 13 at EnterTheVault.com. Beginning April 14, pre-sale tickets will only be available through normal ticketing outlets. To view the dates you can purchase advanced Edguy tickets for, click here. The Vault Fan Club was created for fans of rock and extreme music in order to offer pre-sale tickets with lower service fees than traditional ticketing outlets. Sign up and log on — as you may find V.I.P. tickets for meet-and-greets, offers for autographed merchandise, passes to enter venues early, and much more. Edguy filmed a live DVD on November 3, 2006 at the Credicard Hall in São Paulo, Brazil. The band's latest album, "Rocket Ride", entered the German national album chart at position No. 8 upon its release in late January 2006. The CD also came in at No. 8 in Sweden, No. 25 in Finland, No. 32 in Hungary, No. 48 in Japan, No. 50 in Switzerland, No. 50 in Austria, No. 79 in Norway and No. 81 in Italy. 3/8/07 Hammerfall have parted ways with bassist Magnus Rosén the official statement reads, "Bass player Magnus Rosén has elected to step down from Hammerfall to be able to focus on his own projects. While it is surprising, it's not a total shock to us since he has seemed to be unhappy with the situation in the band and on tour for quite a while. We wish him all the best with his future endeavors and turn our attention to the future, immediate and distant. This will change nothing for us as far as booked gigs and other planned activities are concerned. Rest assured, Hammerfall will continue blazing its trail just like before. The process of selecting the right replacement both musically and personally is already set in motion, and we will announce it as soon as a decision is made. - Joacim, Stefan, Oscar and Anders" And a word from Magnus Rosén: "Thanks to all the fans around the world who supported the band for 10 years. You all gave me very nice memories after all the concerts we did. It was a pleasure to get a big public [following] like you people! Without you, we would not [have been] able to [record] all the CDs and tour [like] we did [these past] 10 years! So thank you all. It´s important for me to tell you that I loved every second I had on the stage when we played our concerts! To hear your happiness really made my day!!!! It was also very nice for me to use my fame to do the solo bass charity [work] for poor people, the clinics in the schools for the kids, and the music against violence. I believe it’s a nice way to give and take. So it’s time for me to be more creative in my music life! So I will, from now [on], give myself a chance to write songs and be creative in [other] bands. This is possible. The year [is] passing by fast and for a musician, it’s important to grow in the situation you are in! I hope Hammerfall find a nice and good bass player for you all, and I hope our fans will respect my choice. Anyway, be sure that I will still [be] doing Heavy Metal, so have your eyes open!!! Best Regards, Magnus Rosén" German hard rock veterans Scorpions have posted the following message on their official web site: "We enjoyed a fantastic four months in Los Angeles, California, recording the songs for our new album 'Humanity – Hour 1'. The mixing is making great progress as we speak. Very soon, the new album will be completely mixed and mastered and ready to be shipped across the world. The official release date is expected to be in the second half of May, but may vary from country to country, so make sure you check with your local record company or record store. It felt great for all of us to hit the stage again and rock the house as we did March 2nd at the Kremlin Palace in Moscow. Thanks again to a great audience! After spending quite some time in the studio, we are definitely ready to go out on the road again." The Humanity - Hour 1 artwork has been posted online at this location. The CD was produced with songwriter/producer Desmond Child, who has worked with such high-profile pop/rock artists as Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, Alice Cooper, Kiss, Ricky Martin, Cher, Michael Bolton and Bonnie Tyler. Scorpions' last album, Unbreakable, was released in the U.S. in June 2004 through Sanctuary Records. The CD was recorded at Peppermint Park Studio in Hannover, Germany and was mixed at Wisseloord studios in Hilversum, Holland. Swedish metal band Sonic Syndicate will release its second album, Only Inhuman, on May 18 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD was recorded at Black Lounge Studios in Avesta, Sweden with producer Jonas Kjellgren (Scar Symmrtey guitarist). The track listing is as follows: 01. Aftermath 02. Blue Eyed Fiend 03. Psychic Suicide 04. Double Agent 05. Enclave 06. Denied 07. Callous 08. Only Inhuman 09. All About Us 10. Unknown Entity 11. Flashback Check out the cover artwork at this location. Sonic Syndicate landed a deal with Nuclear Blast Records in July 2006 after taking part in a "band contest" which was originally launched in the summer of 2005. A jury consisting of the Nuclear Blast staff and representatives for such magazines as Metal Hammer (Germany, Metal Hammer (Spain), Metal Hammer (Italy), Rock Hard (France), Inferno (Finland), Scream (Norway) and Close-Up (Sweden) went through more than 1,500 submissions and selected three winners who competed for the following prizes: A deal with Nuclear Blast, a download co-operation and a gig with a Nuclear Blast band. Sonic Syndicate’s debut album, Eden Fire, was recorded at StudioMega (The Crown, Lake Of Tears, Beseech), and was released on September 13, 2005 through the Florida-based record label Pivotal Rockordings. Stream Of Passion members Johan van Stratum (bass), Davy Mickers (drums) and Marcela Bovio (vocals, lyrics, violin) have issued the following statement: "Since our last tour we've received a lot of inquires about the future of Stream Of Passion. As you may have [read] on the Ayreon website, Arjen [Lucassen, guitar] has been going through a very rough period on in his life; he has decided to quit the band and focus entirely on his new Ayreon album, which we know for sure will be a huge success, so good luck with it, Arjen! "Besides Arjen, Lori [Linstruth, guitar] and Alejandro [Millán, piano] have also decided to part ways and focus on their own personal lives and musical projects. We, the rest of [Stream Of Passion], wish the three of them all the success and happiness in the world. "HOWEVER THIS [IS] BY NO MEANS THE END OF THE BAND! The rest of us are extremely motivated to continue this beautiful story called Stream Of Passion and give it a more than positive future, like we think it deserves. We are already busy writing music for a new album, so soon you'll hear more about our future plans and musical ideas. Stay tuned!" Stream Of Passion’s debut album, Embrace the Storm, was released in Holland in October 2005 via Sony/BMG Benelux. The CD was issued in the rest of Europe and the U.S./Canada via InsideOut Music. Tommy and Chris Rehn from Angtoria have produced the new four-song EP from Swedish technical death metaler’s Soreption. The CD, which was recorded, mixed and produced at Sidelake Studios in Sundsvall, also features artwork by Chris Rehn. Formed in 2005, Soreption specializes in "technically and artistically advanced riffs topped with in-your-face brutal vocals," according to a press release. "These twenty-year old guys perform their songs quickly, brutally and highly technical with musicality and finesse. A very unusual combination especially for a band as young as Soreption." For more information, including audio samples, go to this location. Testament's current lineup — drummer Nick Barker (Dimmu Borgir, Cradle Of Filth) alongside original members Alex Skolnick (guitar), Greg Christian (bass), Eric Peterson (guitar) and Chuck Billy (vocals) — is currently working on new material for an upcoming CD release. Guitarist Eric Peterson exclaims, "Working hard with Nick on some new ideas and some cool old-school styles and it's coming together really killer! Six songs already in the can so far! Just waiting for the Chief [singer Chuck Billy] to come up with some lyrics to match, we get into the studio to track the drums in June...looking forward to busting out some new ones for this summer at the festivals and get a reaction!" Chuck Billy states: "It’s been a long time coming, this new album is like a good wine, you throw in the grapes and 'CRUSH'." Upcoming Testament shows: Mar. 23 - Almassy MK Hall - Budapest, Hungary Mar. 24 - Hala Spodek - Katowice, Poland Mar. 26 - Granada Theatre - Dallas, TX Mar. 27 - Scout Bar - Houston, TX Mar. 29 - Rialto Theatre - Tucson, AZ Mar. 30 - El Moro Theatre - Flagstaff, AZ Mar. 31 - California Metal Fest: Galaxy Theatre - Santa Ana, CA Apr. 19 - Saloon Ferrocarrilero - Torreon, Mexico Apr. 20 - Cafe Iguana - Monterrey, Mexico Apr. 21 - Full Metal Fest 2: Arena Lopez Mateos - Mexico City, Mexico Apr. 22 - Arena Pier 10 - San Juan, Puerto Rico Apr. 25 - Bar Opiniao - Porto Alegre, Brazil Apr. 26 - Helloch - Curitiba, Brazil Apr. 27 - Via Funchal - Sao Paulo, Brazil Apr. 29 - El Teatro Flores - Buenos Aires, Argentina Apr. 30 - Teatro Caupolican - Santiago, Chile Jun. 24 - Hellfest - Clisson, France Jul. 06 - Bloodstock Fest - Derby, England Jul. 07 - Waldrock Festival - Leeuwarden, Netherlands Jul. 19 - Earthshaker Festival - Nuernberg, Germany Aug. 17 - Jalo Metalli Fest - Oulu, Finland Aug. 18 - Metal Days Fest - Notodden, Norway Aug. 19 - Musikens Hus - Goteborg, Sweden Aug. 21 - Godset - Kolding, Denmark Aug. 22 - Hof Ter Lo - Antwerpen, Belgium Aug. 23 - Burgerweeshuis - Deventer, Holland Aug. 24 - Hole In The Sky Fest - Bergen, Norway Aug. 25 - Up From The Ground Fest - Gemunden, Germany Aug. 31 - Velvet - Rimini, Italy Sep. 01 - Route To Hell Fest - Palamaggio - Caserta, Italy Norwegian black metaler’s Mayhem are scheduled to return to the American continent this summer. So far, only one date has been released: July 24 at Jaxx in Springfield, Virginia. More shows will be announced soon. Season of Mist has set an April 23 release date for the new Mayhem album, Ordo Ab Chao. A track from the CD, entitled "Anti", is available for download at this location. Ordo Ab Chao (view cover artwork at this location) track listing: 01. A Wise Birthgiver 02. Wall of Water 03. Great Work of Ages 04. Deconsecrate 05. Illuminate Eliminate 06. Psychic Horns 07. Key to the Storms 08. Anti Commented guitarist Blasphemer (a.k.a. Rune Erickson): "The sound is raw and powerful, and listening to it, it reminds me of the 'Wolf's Lair Abyss' era, only more varied and more philosophical. The album also contains the most aggressive songs in the Mayhem history as well as the most wicked and darkest." The upcoming CD will mark Mayhem’s first release since 1993 with vocalist Attila Csihar back behind the microphone. Csihar rejoined Mayhem in November 2004 as the replacement for departed singer Maniac (real name Sven Erik Kristiansen). Mayhem’s last studio album, Chimera, entered the Norwegian album chart at position No. 28 upon its release in March 2004. German power metaler’s Primal Fear have posted the following message on their official web site: "Most of the recordings for the new Primal Fear album are done! Yesterday, we spent our final day at the House Of Music Studio and finished our work there. We worked 15 hours a day during last couple of weeks and a personal tough period for the band. But the result is so satisfying that it was worth to drive the engine to the limit. Huge compliments to our engineer Charlie Bauerfeind, who co-produced the album again together with Mat Sinner. It was a pleasure to work with Charlie again. Thanks to the House Of Music team for a great time! We will have to record some more lead guitars in the coming weeks and some additional vocal lines. Watch out for some surprises coming up! Matthias Ulmer is finishing the keyboard and orchestra files together with Mat next week. We will start mixing the album in early April at the Galaxy Studio in Belgium, together with Ronald Prent. We will reveal the album title and the finalized song titles on this page soon!" Songtitles set to appear on the follow-up to 2005's Seven Seals include "Save Me", "Fighting the Darkness", "Every Time It Rains" (featuring a guest appearance by Epica singer Simone Simons) and "Torn". A summer release via Frontiers Records is expected. Check out pictures from the recording studio at this location. German guitarist Axel Rudi Pell has issued the following update: "We'll be in the studio in April to record a new album which will be a covers album! Yes, that's right... but all NEW recorded material, no songs from earlier releases, just 10 songs which I picked personally out of some really great tunes! And... surprise...there will be NO cover version of either a Deep Purple or a RAINBOW song! Expect all the songs sounding typically in the style of Axel Rudi Pell! I promise you'll really be satisfied! The record will be released by SPV after the summer." Axel Rudi Pell cancelled the final four shows on the second leg of the Mystica tour after he had a "breakdown" before the first Spanish show in Madrid and was diagnosed with "total exhaustion combined with a virus." Axel Rudi Pell’s latest CD, Mystica, entered the German national chart at position No. 27. It also debuted on the Swedish chart at position No. 56. The CD was co-produced/engineered by Charlie Bauerfeind and features artwork by Colombian illustrator Felipe Machado Franco. Finnish melodic metaler’s Sonata Arctica have announced the details of their new album, Unia Unia (view cover artwork at this location) track listing: 01. In Black And White 02. Paid In Full 03. For The Sake Of Revenge 04. It Won't Fade 05. Under Your Tree 06. Caleb 07. The Vice 08. My Dream's But A Drop Of Fuel For A Nightmare 09. The Harvest 10. The Worlds Forgotten, The Words Forbidden 11. Fly With The Black Swan 12. Good Enough Is Good Enough A single, "Paid In Full", will precede the album on April 27. The track listing is as follows: 01. Paid in Full (radio edit) 02. Out in the Fields (Gary Moore cover) 03. Paid in Full Check out the single artwork at this location. Sonata Arctica guitarist Jani Liimatainen announced a couple of days ago that he will be unable to join the band on their upcoming tour because he has to fulfill his "civic duties." A temporary replacement guitarist will be announced soon. With the blessings of the family of late Ozzy Osbourne/Quiet Riot guitarist Randy Rhoads, Dakota Pictures and director Peter Margolis will begin filming the "Randy Rhoads Documentary" on March 19, 2007 at the Mountain View Cemetery in San Bernardino, CA between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. In hopes to fully capture the significance of the 25th anniversary of Randy's passing, the filmmakers will be interviewing as many of Randy's fans as possible. For more information, visit www.myspace.com/randyrhoadsfilm. In 1982, Rhoads, the then-lead guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne, and two others were killed at Flying Baron Estates, just outside Leesburg, Florida, when their small plane struck Osbourne's tour bus, then crashed into a mansion.     2/8/07 W.A.S.P.'s previously announced deal with SPV Records appears to have fallen through and the band has now landed a new label home with Demolition Records. The group's new album, "Dominator", is expected sometime this spring. Song titltes tentatively set to appear on the CD include: "Mercy", "Take Me Up", "Heaven's Hung In Black", "Heaven's Blessed", "Long Long Way To Go" and "Teacher". Two cover versions were also recorded during the sessions — "Burn" (Deep Purple) and "Fortunate Son" (Creedence Clearwater Revival) — but it s not clear if those tracks will appear on the final product. Regarding the album title, Blackie Lawless said in a recent interview, "It is based on the idea of Western imperialism and about what's wrong with Washington D.C. It's important that people understand this is not about the American people and it is not a critique on the American people — it is a critique on the government in the United States. If someone looks at the lyrics of “Dominator”, they'll think it's a man talking to a woman. And I like the interesting concept of that because that's what bigger countries do to smaller countries — they toss them like they're their bitch." Vocalist/bassist Steve Rowe from Australian Christian death metal band Mortification has posted the following message on the band's official web site: "It is summer-time over here and, besides being on vacation with my wife and son, I have been busy with Mick Jelinic mixing the audio for our upcoming DVD release Live Humanitarian. Yes, you heard it here first! Live Humanitarian will be out in the second half of this year. The audio sounds MASSIVE! It was recorded live at the deluxe but intimate Imax Theatre in Perth, Australia, late last year. It is a Mortification 17-year celebration featuring 24-track digital live recording and a seven-digital-camera shoot. It will be coming out in Dolby 5.1 Surround Sound. This is the first full-length Mortification show ever to be done this well. Live Planetarium (1993) had only half the show on video (now re-issued and available on DVD) and the full show was only on the CD. We may be doing Live Humanitarian on CD also. We are very excited about this release so stay posted. I will send the audio and bonus material over to Perth this week for the visual cut to be completed in the coming months. This is a huge undertaking but with seven cameras and Surround Sound, it will surpass any past official Mortification releases. "I pray that you are all very healthy and praise God that this past Saturday was my 10th anniversary out of bone marrow transplant for leukemia. 10 years and one month ago I was given a maximum of 10 years to live. I still struggle with health issues but we plan to do some more touring this year if all things go to plan. So it is great to be alive and still working with the music and message that is so strong in my heart. I will be around for many years to come making metal for Jesus. It will be great to arrive at 25 years Mortification in 2015." Mortification's thirteenth studio album, Erasing The Goblin was released in 2006 through the Rowe Productions label. The follow-up to 2004's Brain Cleaner was described at the time as "the heaviest project the band has recorded in 10 years" and was said to be "a lot more of a death metal/grind-orientated album but with plenty of power and thrash metal mixed in to keep it interesting and multi-dimensional." The original LOVE/HATE lineup — vocalist Jizzy Pearl, guitarist Jon E. Love, bassist Skid Rose and drummer Joey Gold — will reunite for the first time in ten years. On February 24 at Club Vodka in Hollywood, California, they will perform their classic record "Black out in the Red Room" in its entirety. Released in 1990, "Blackout in the Red Room" reached position No. 154 on the Billboard Top 200. The video for the single "Why Do You Think They Call It Dope?" received good rotation on MTV, chiefly on "Headbanger's Ball". In 1992 when the band released its second album "Wasted in America", Jizzy Pearl used himself in a legendary publicity stunt to help album sales. With the help of a few others, Jizzy successfully erected a cross on the Hollywood sign and positioned himself on it. Kotipelto, the band led by Stratovarius singer Timo Kotipelto, has inked a deal with AFM Records. The group's third album, Serenity, is due in April. 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 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." Kotipelto's sophomore solo album, Coldness, was released in Europe in April 2004 through Century Media Records. The follow-up to 2002's Waiting for the Dawn was recorded by Children Of Bodom keyboardist Janne Wirman at his Beyond Abilities Studios as well as by Tero Kostermaa at High and Loud's ELK Studios and Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, where the mixing (Mikko Karmila) and the mastering (Mika Jussila) also took place. Matthias Norén, who has previously worked with bands like Into Eternity, Lost Horizon and Evergrey, designed the album's artwork. Jeff Scott Soto (Talisman, Yngwie Malmsteen, Soul Sirkus) has been officially named the new lead singer of Journey. He had been filling in for Steve Augeri, who had to leave the U.S. tour with Def Leppard shortly after it began on June 23 due to illness. "We are so grateful to Steve for all the years he dedicated to Journey," says Journey in a joint statement. "We thank Steve for all his hard work and we wish him only the best in his future endeavors. Over the past few months, we've come to realize that Jeff has proven himself above and beyond that he can sing the hell out of our songs and we're happy to officially welcome him as part of the family. We're excited to start a new chapter with Jeff and we're excited about what the future may bring.” Steve Augeri states: "Singing for Journey these last eight years have been the most challenging and the most rewarding of my career. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the band, and especially the fans, for the privilege of being part of a musical legacy that has touched so many hearts and souls. I wish my fellow bandmates success and happiness as they continue to make great music in the future, as I will strive to do the same myself." Jeff Soto also adds, "With delight and pleasure, I am accepting the offer to continue my tenure with Journey now as their permanent vocalist after the amazing past months we've spent together on tour. I also pay high respect to Steve Augeri for coming in and helping Journey continue their legacy for nearly the last decade and to Steve Perry for co-creating this legacy. I hope to now add and help drive Journey into the next stage of this band's future." Since Soto's first appearance with Journey on July 7 in Bristow, VA, his performances have been garnering rave reviews. Steve Augeri is currently recording his debut solo album, In the Moment, due out the summer of 2007. He's also putting the finishing touches on the much-anticipated follow-up to the AOR classic Tall Stories album, launching early next year. Journey — Neal Schon (guitar), Ross Valory (bass), Jonathan Cain (keyboards), Deen Castronovo (drums) and Jeff Scott Soto (vocals) — are currently mapping out plans for 2007. Spiritual rockers P.O.D. (a.k.a. Payable On Death) have been rejoined by guitarist Marcos Curiel. A photo of the group's new lineup — singer Sonny Sandoval; guitarist Marcos Curiel; drummer Wuv Bernardo; and bassist Traa Daniels — taken last week on Catalina Island can be viewed at this location. The band will make its first appearance with Curiel in nearly four years this New Year's Eve at Times Square in New York City. P.O.D. released a "greatest hits" collection, aptly titled Greatest Hits - The Atlantic Years, on November 21 through Rhino Records. The CD contains 17 tracks, including two new songs — a previously unreleased track from the Testify sessions (helmed by Glen Ballard), and a new song that was recorded with producer Travis Wyrick (Pillar). The latter track was mixed in Los Angeles by Chris Lord-Alge (AFI, Underoath). P.O.D., who recently parted ways with longtime label Atlantic Records, has reportedly already inked a record deal, the details of which will be announced soon. P.O.D. was with Atlantic for four albums and two EPs. The band signed with Atlantic in 1998, after selling more than 40,000 copies of its independently released EPs. The group's Atlantic debut, The Fundamental Elements of Southtown, came out in 1999 and went platinum, while 2001's Satellite was a multi-platinum success. But the group felt that personnel changes at Atlantic were responsible for recent sales dips — more than 500,000 copies of 2003's Payable On Death were sold, but less than 250,000 copies of the recent Testify. 1/5/07 Launch Radio Networks reports: Things are going well with the recording of the new Judas Priest album. It's a concept album about the 16th Century French prophet Nostradamus, and the band has started thinking about release dates. Frontman Rob Halford told Launch that everyone's excited about the project. "The writing sessions were fantastic — some of the best writing that (guitarists) Glenn (Tipton) and K.K. (Downing) and myself have ever created, and we're in good shape, we're recording. And fingers crossed, and with the belief that it's ready when it's ready, we should be out by the middle of 2007 with Nostradamus." This will be Priest's first album since Angel of Retribution came out in 2005, marking Halford's return to the group. Judas Priest is also working out the details for a stage show to go along with the album's subject matter. According to a posting on the web site of the New York City venue B.B. King Blues Club & Grill, Kamelot and Leaves' Eyes are scheduled to play there on August 19. More North American tour dates are expected to be announced soon. Kamelot and Leaves' Eyes will team up for a European tour beginning late March. A list of dates can be found at Kamelot.com. As previously reported, a video clip of Kamelot performing the song "When the Lights are Down" on February 11, 2006 at the historic Rockefeller venue in Oslo, Norway has been posted online at YouTube.com. The footage comes off the group's first-ever DVD, One Cold Winter's Night, which entered the Swedish Music Video chart at position No. 8. Kamelot enlisted renowned film and video director Patric Ullaeus (Dimmu Borgir, Lacuna Coil, In Flames) to chronicle the night's events. Bringing with him from Gothenburg, Sweden, Patric had a large crew of professionals and equipment, including 18 cameras that would be used in and around the concert grounds. Kamelot is currently working on a new studio album for a spring 2007 release. Disturbed will not embark on a second leg of its Music As A Weapon tour this winter. A spokesperson told Harddrive Radio yesterday (Wednesday, January 3) that Disturbed will instead start working on its fourth album. This contradicts recent comments made by singer David Draiman, who told Launch that another run of shows was "definitely in the planning stage." He added, "We are as yet still trying to solidify that bill. But we're definitely talking to people and it's looking to be as strong of a lineup as we've thankfully been able to assemble this time for this first leg." The latest Music As A Weapon bill featured Stone Sour, Flyleaf and Nonpoint. The tour, which began in mid-October and ended in late December, was marred on several of its last dates by a number of injuries and arrests. Disturbed's third album, Ten Thousand Fists, came out in September of 2005 and featured the singles "Stricken" and "Land of Confusion". Dio's official web site has been updated with the following message: "Ronnie [James Dio, vocals] and the boys celebrated the New Year with a bash in Varna, Bulgaria, which also celebrated the country's acceptance into the European Union. Ronnie was the guest of honor at the ribbon cutting ceremony at which a 16-story building side painting of him was unveiled. A fine way to bring in the New Year for sure! "NAMM 2007: This year's NAMM convention will be held January 18-21, 2007 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, CA. Ronnie and Craig [Goldy, guitar] will be signing autographs at the Engl Amps booth on Friday, January 19 at 1:00 p.m., while Simon [Wright, drums] will be signing over at the Vic Firth booth at that time. The entire band will appear at the Dean Markley booth later that day 3:00-5:00 p.m." Great White are kicking off a reunion tour in Los Angeles later this month. The '80s nostalgia act is finishing a new album and embarking on a tour with its original lineup to mark its 25th anniversary. The reunited band's first show is a Jan. 27 benefit at Hollywood's Key Club to raise money for Harpseals.org, a nonprofit dedicated to ending Canadian seal hunting, according to the group's Web site. Heaven and Hell — the new band featuring legendary heavy metal singer Ronnie James Dio (Dio, Black Sabbath, Rainbow) alongside original Black Sabbath members Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler, plus drummer Vinny Appice (Dio, Black Sabbath) — has been confirmed as the headliner of this year's installment of the Bang Your Head!!! festival, set to take place June 22-23, 2007 in Balingen, Germany. The festival billing is shaping up as follows: Heaven and Hell Edguy Amon Amarth Brainstorm Evergrey Finntroll Girlschool Mercenary Mystic Prophercy Nazareth Powermad Praying Mantis Steelheart Thunder Eight more acts will be announced. Tickets are limited to 20,000 and are available at ticket-hotline (+49-74 57-94 46 12) and via www.bang-your-head.de. Prices are 65 euros (plus shipping) at pre-sales. The Heaven and Hell tour will kick off in Vancouver, British Columbia, on March 3 and play at least seven shows across Canada, ending in Toronto. Then the band will likely play South America, Japan, Korea, Australia and Europe before returning to North America for a U.S. tour in August or September. The upcoming Dio-era Black Sabbath anthology, Black Sabbath: The Dio Years, will feature three new songs ("Shadow of the Wind", "Devil Cries" and "Ear in the Wall"), and is tentatively due this spring. Finnish melodic metaler’s Sonata Arctica will embark on a North American headlining tour in September/October 2007. Confirmed dates so far are as follows: Sep. 16 - Key Club - Los Angeles, CA Sep. 17 - Galaxy Theater - Santa Ana, CA Sep. 21 - The Metro - Chicago, IL Sep. 22 - Harpo's - Detroit, MI Sep. 23 - Peabody's Down Under - Cleveland, OH Sep. 24 - Opera House - Toronto, ONT Sep. 27 - The Medley - Montreal, QC Sep. 28 - The Chance Theater - Poughkeepsie, NY Sep. 29 - The Palladium - Worcester, MA Sep. 30 - B.B. King's - New York, NY Oct. 02 - The Trocadero - Philadelphia, PA Oct. 03 - Jaxx - Springfield, VA Oct. 05 - ProgPower USA VIII - Atlanta, GA Oct. 09 - The Meridian - Houston, TX Sonata Arctica is currently recording its new studio album for a tentative early 2007 release. The new single from Sonata Arctica, "Replica" — containing a new version of the title cut, which originally appeared on the band's 1999 debut, Ecliptica, plus the songs "Draw Me" (instrumental) and "Respect the Wilderness" — entered the Finnish single chart last month at position No. 1. The new version of "Replica" is included on Sonata Arctica’s best of collection, entitled "The Collection 1999-2006", which entered the Finnish album chart at No. 16. In addition to material from the band's studio albums, the CD contains a new version of the song "My Land", which also originally appeared on Ecliptica. For more information on the "Replica" single and the "The Collection 1999-2006" CD, go to this location. 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." Avantasia's last release was the two-part epic called The Metal Opera (issued in 2001 and 2002), which featured an impressive array of guest vocalists playing the various characters of the opera, including Michael Kiske (ex-Helloween), David DeFeis (Virgin Steele), Sharon Den Adel (Within Temptation), Kai Hansen (Gamma Ray), André Matos (Angra, Shaaman), Timo Tolkki (Stratovarius), Rob Rock (Warrior, Impellitteri ), and others. For more information on Avantasia, visit www.avantasia.net. Edguy filmed a live DVD on November 3 at the Credicard Hall in São Paulo, Brazil. The band has spent most of the past year touring in support of its latest album, "Rocket Ride", which entered the German national album chart at position No. 8 upon its release in late January 2006. The CD also came in at No. 8 in Sweden, No. 25 in Finland, No. 32 in Hungary, No. 48 in Japan, No. 50 in Switzerland, No. 50 in Austria, No. 79 in Norway and No. 81 in Italy. 10/28/06 Due to "production issues," the North American release date for Kamelot's first-ever DVD and double live CD, entitled One Cold Winter's Night, has been moved from October 24 to November 21. One Cold Winter's Night was recorded on February 11, 2006 at the historic Rockefeller Musichall in Oslo, Norway. Kamelot enlisted renowned film and video director Patric Ullaeus (Dimmu Borgir, Lacuna Cuil, In Flames) to chronicle the night's events. Bringing with him from Gothenberg, Sweden, Patric had a large crew of professionals and equipment, including 18 cameras that would be used in and around the concert grounds. The title for the band's first DVD to date (based on an earlier Kamelot song title) was chosen long before the actual shoot. Ironically this winter turned out to be one of the longest and coldest in the country's history, with enormous amounts of snow and numerous chaos-causing blizzards. One Cold Winter's Night will be available as a double DVD (cover), double CD (cover) or a 2DVD/2CD double pack with poster (Europe only). For more information, click here. According to a posting on In Flames' official web site, guitarist Jesper Strömblad has undisclosed "issues to deal with" and "will take a break" from the group's current touring activities. However, fans are being assured that Jesper "will be back." The rest of the band will complete the forthcoming tours and no dates will be cancelled. As previously reported, In Flames' latest album, Come Clarity, has sold more than 100,000 copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan. Come Clarity, the highly influential band's debut for Ferret Music, took the hard rock community by storm upon its release, debuting at #58 on the Billboard Top 200 with first week sales of nearly 25,000 copies. The highest charting record in both the band and label's sales history, Come Clarity has met to widespread critical acclaim and solidified In Flames' place as leaders of the modern day heavy music movement. In Flames is also seeing success at radio with the launch of the first U.S. commercial campaign in the band's storied history. A representative for Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi has confirmed that the highly anticipated and much-rumored reunion of Iommi, Ronnie James Dio, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward appears to be shaping up and taking a new form. After various promoters have approached the former Sabbath bandmates' respective representatives, the guys have started taking all of this very seriously, as they have apparently wanted to reunite for some time now. It looks as if the new shape may be that of Heaven and Hell — that is the moniker that the band is likely to use on their new venture. If all goes well, Heaven and Hell should be hitting the road in early 2007. San Diego power metal band Benedictum has parted ways with drummer Blackie Sanchez due to musical differences. "We wish Blackie the best of luck in his future endeavors — we had some great times together but over the last few months it became apparent that we were moving in different directions," said the band in an official statement. "We are happy to announce that we have found an awesome new drummer named Paul Courtois who we've been jamming with and things have never been better. We're gelling beautifully on a musical level and we're having more fun than ever; we're currently in the early pre-production stages for our second album and already working up a batch of new tunes with Paul. We'll be heading up to L.A. shortly to meet up with our producer, Jeff Pilson, and get the ball rolling with a view toward tracking in February." On the live front, Benedictum has been forced to drop out of the Monterrey Metal Fest in Mexico due to scheduling conflicts but are heading back over to Europe for a December tour with German metal goddess Doro. "I'm a huge fan and I can't wait it meet her so this tour is like a dream come true for me" states Benedictum vocalist Veronica Freeman. "We're looking forward to getting back to Italy, Holland, and Belgium, and we're totally stoked to finally be able to play for the fans in Germany, which we didn't get a chance to last summer. We'll see you all very soon!" Confirmed Doro / Benedictum tour dates are as follows: Dec. 05 - Italy - Florence Flog Dec. 06 - Italy - Traviso New Age Dec. 07 - Italy - Milan Live Club Dec. 09 - Germany - Affalter Zur Linde Dec. 10 - Germany - Braunschweig Jolly Joker Dec. 11 - Germany - Berlin Postbahnhof Dec. 13 - Germany - Bremen Aladin Dec. 15 - Austria - Wörgl Komma Dec. 16 - Germany - Kaufbeuren All-Karthalle Dec. 19 - Germany - Ubach-Palenberg Rockfabrik Dec. 20 - Netherlands - Weert De Bosuil Dec. 21 - Netherlands - Hellendorn Lantaarn Dec. 22 - Germany - Flensburg Roxy Dec. 25 - Germany - Speyer Halle 101 Dec. 26 - Germany - Bochum Zeche Dec. 27 - Belgium - Antwerpen Hof Ter Loh Dec. 28 - Germany - Aschaffenburg Colos-Saal Dec. 29 - Germany - Andernach JUZ Live Club Dec. 30 - Germany - Crailsheim Jahnhalle The U.S. release date of the new Children Of Bodom DVD, Chaos Ridden Years - Stockholm Knockout Live, has been pushed back to December 5. The audio CD version of the release arrived in stores this past week (Tuesday, October 24). As previously reported ,a "Media Plyer" for Chaos Ridden Years - Stockholm Knockout Live has been launched at this location. The Chaos Ridden Years – Stockholm Knockout Live DVD is estimated to contain over three hours of non-stop COB action, including a live concert, videos, and a rare documentary on the band from past to present. Directed by Patric Ullaeus of the Revolver Film Company, the DVD mainly focuses on the February 5, 2006 live concert in Stockholm, Sweden, featuring over 90 minutes of live excitement. Finalizing the material on this super-packed DVD will be two interviews/documentary-type films about the band's past, present and future directed by Yka Jarvinen (Indie Films OY), a "making of the DVD," and photo gallery. Chaos Ridden Years - Stockholm Knockout Live sold more than 5,000 copies in Finland within a day of its release, earning it gold certification in the band's home country. For more information, click here. 10/21/06 Powerhouse heavy metal vocalist Rob Rock (ex-Impellitteri, Driver, Joshua) has cancelled his previously announced South American tour. "We are unable to tour at this time because certain contractual commitments and deadlines were not met," reads a posting on Rob's web site. "Our sincerest apologies to our fans. Rob Rock will work hard to tour South America as soon as possible." JVC/Victor Entertainment Japan released Rob Rock's latest CD, Holy Hell, with four bonus tracks on September 22, 2005: "Ride the Wind", featuring a Gus G. (Firewind) guitar solo; "Lost in a World", originally recorded and mixed during the "Rage of Creation" (2000) sessions; "I’m a Warrior" (alternate mix) and "First Winds of the End of Time" (alternate mix) (alternate mixes by Roy Z). Holy Hell was released in the U.S. on September 6, 2005 via Candlelight/Caroline Records. The CD features contributions from Bobby Jarzombek (drums; Halford, Iced Earth, Riot), Carljohan Grimmark (guitar; Narnia), Andreas Olsson (bass; Narnia), Bob Rossi (guitar), Rick Renstrom (guitar), and producer/guitarist Roy Z. Special guests include EDGUY singer Tobias Sammet and Italian keyboard sensation Mistheria. Sweden's Amon Amarth has issued the following update: "It's time for us to decide the set list for our upcoming tours in Europe and North America, and we want YOUR help! Choose 15 of your favourite Amon Amarth songs. The 15 most popular choices will be picked for the set list (the 10 most popular will be picked for the North American tour). Click here to vote." Amon Amarth's latest CD, With Oden on Our Side, has entered the national album chart in Sweden at No. 21 and in Austria at No. 27. The album has also debuted on the German national chart at position No. 21. This is the highest chart entry in Germany of any band on the Metal Blade roster, according to a posting on the group's web site. Amon Amarth's last album, Fate of Norns (2004), debuted on the German chart at position No. 31. As previously reported, Amon Amarth's video for the song "Runes to my Memory" has been posted online at this location (Windows Media). An exclusive media player for With Oden On Our Side, featuring two songs from the album, can be accessed at this location. The CD was recorded at Fascination Street studios in Örebro, Sweden with producer Jens Bogren. Dokken mainman Don Dokken has uploaded audio samples from his upcoming Solitary solo album at his official web site. Check out the cuts "Someday", "Sarah", "Never Forget", "Meadows", "Ship of Fools" and "Everything" at this location (Scroll down to the bottom of the page). Dokken filmed their recent shows in Mexico and Greece for a bonus DVD to be included with their upcoming album, "Lightning Strikes Again", tentatively due in early 2007. Dokken's latest CD, Hell to Pay, was released in July 2004 via Sanctuary. The recording lineup on the album was as follows: Don Dokken (vocals), Jon Levin (guitar, ex-Warlock), Barry Sparks (bass, Ted Nugent, Yngwie Malmsteen, MSG) and Mick Brown (drums). Trivium's entire new album, The Crusade, is available for listening at NME.com (click on "Media Player"; registration required). The Crusade is scheduled for release on October 10 via Roadrunner Records (one day earlier internationally). The follow-up to 2005's Ascendancy was recorded at Audiohammer Studios in Sanford, FL, just outside of Orlando. Once again produced by Trivium and Jason Suecof, the CD is "a dazzling explosion of tight, intricate and instantly memorable songs that feature awe-inspiring musicianship from all four members of the band," according to a press release. An e-card for The Crusade can be accessed at this location. As previously reported, Trivium's video for the song "Anthem (We Are The Fire)" has been posted online at this location. The clip was shot on August 11 in Agoura Hills, California and features the band and its loyal fans crashing and taking over "a lame house party...bringing their huge metal show (complete with pyro, flaming swimming pool, and fire cannons) and showing the world how they ROCK." Trivium has just released a U.K.-only single featuring the song "Anthem (We Are The Fire)" backed by two exclusive non-album cuts: "Broken One" and "Vengeance". Also featured on the single is the video clip for "Anthem (We Are The Fire)".   9/28/06 Norway's black metal legends Immortal disbanded in 2003 after 13 successful years as one of the pioneers of metal, with a legacy of seven full-length albums, including their latest milestone, 2002's Sons of Northern Darkness, through Nuclear Blast Records. After a solid break, the band has decided to enter the battlefield again, and what better way to do so than performing a few selected, exclusive concert appearances! Come 2007, the world will see a new ferocious lineup of Immortal, featuring Abbath and Horgh, and a new bass player in Apollyon from Aura Noir. After already confirming their headlining appearance at Germany's Wacken Open Air 2007, Photograve Management has announced the mighty Immortal’s return to U.S. shores for two exclusive shows. The dates are as follows: Jul. 13 - New York City, NY – B.B. King Blues Club & Grill Jul. 15 - Los Angeles, CA - The Avalon Tickets go on sale October 13 2006 at 12:00 p.m. (noon). Finnish symphonic metal band Nightwish, which recently entered the studio to begin recording their first album since the departure of singer Tarja Turunen, has posted the following message on their official web site: "There has been again false news about [the] Nightwish vocalist [position] in some media [outlets] at least in Finland. There has not been any decisions made concerning the vocalist and there will not be any before year 2007. When the band chooses the vocalist, they will inform all [members of the] media about it. Once again: Do not trust any news if it's not found in www.nightwish.com!" Buckcherry recently filmed two videos in one day, shooting a new clip for the song "Crazy Bitch" as well as one for the track "Next to You". Guitarist Keith Nelson had an easy way to keep track of which video he was shooting when. "I just looked down at my shirt and I knew exactly what to do," Nelson said, explaining that he wore a red T-shirt for "Next to You" and a gray for "Crazy Bitch". “Next to You” is about two female fans that basically go to great lengths to try to get next to the band with a series of near-misses, finishing up at the Inland Invasion concert." As for their white-hot single, Nelson says, "The 'Crazy Bitch' video is five rock 'n' roll guys get a parking ticket that goes really bad. I don't want to give it away, but all I can I say is I wish every traffic cop in L.A. was as hot as the one that decided to throw us in jail for our parking violation." It's like 'The Terminator' meets 'Hot for Teacher'," he says. Soulfly bassist Bobby Burns will sit out the band's U.S. Dark Ages Tour with after suffering a stroke last Thursday. Although home at this time, Burns will need long rest for recovery. Two bassists stepped up to the plate for their Soulfly brother. Dave Ellefson (formerly of Megadeth, currently of F5/Temple Of Brutality). played bass through September 26 through the remainder of the tour, Danny Lilker (formerly of Anthrax/S.O.D., currently in Nuclear Assault and Brutal Truth) has taken over on bass. Remaining Soulfly tour dates are: Sep. 28 - Bedford, NH - Mark’s Place Sep. 29 - Allentown, PA - Crocodile Rock Café Sep. 30 - Springfield, VA - Jaxx Oct. 01 - Winston-Salem, NC - Ziggy's Oct. 02 - Charlotte, NC - Amos’ South End Oct. 03 - Tallahassee, FL - The Beta Bar Oct. 04 - St. Petersburg, FL - State Theatre Oct. 05 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - The Culture Room Oct. 06 - Atlanta, GA – Masquerade Atlantic recording group Shadows Fall is currently in the studio recording their highly anticipated major label debut with producer Nick Raskulinecz (Foo Fighters, Stone Sour, Rush). The still untitled project is the Grammy-nominated band's follow-up to 2004's critically acclaimed The War Within, and its companion release, 2006's Fallout From The War, both released on Century Media Records. After headlining this summer's Sthress Tour with such supporting acts as Suffocation and Poison The Well, Shadows Fall headed straight back to their rehearsal space to begin pre-production. On September 18 the band entered Studio 606 in Northridge, CA to begin recording. Says singer Brian Fair, "I cannot wait to finally get this started! We have been working on these songs for the past few months in the practice space and are ready to lay them down in the studio. Pre-production with Nick has been amazing. He is definitely on the same page as us, musically and personally. He is a lifelong fan of metal but also has a great understanding of rock and roll, which complements our style and sound perfectly." Raskulinecz adds, "I've wanted to work with this band for years and had to bug the hell out of them until they said yes. We're going to tighten the songs so that every riff, every lyric, every drum hit counts on this record, and really focus on the songwriting to make it a force to be dealt with." Based in Springfield, Massachusetts, Shadows Fall first garnered attention from the underground metal scene with their first three releases, Somber Eyes To The Sky, Of One Blood, and The Art Of Balance. Known for their unrelenting live performances, they have toured with a diverse array of artists, among them Slipknot, Damageplan, Misfits, Lamb Of God, In Flames, Killswitch Engage and Glassjaw. The group's 2004 breakthrough album, The War Within, not only debuted at #20 on the Billboard 200 chart but also earned the group a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance and secured them a spot on Ozzfest's 2005 main stage. A live recording of the new W.A.S.P. song "Mercy", taped during the band's appearance in Bulgaria earlier in the month, has been made available for download via the band's official forum at www.waspnation.com (free registration required). "Mercy" is expected to be included W.A.S.P.'s new album, "Dominator", due early next year. According to a posting on The Rainbow Fanclan Legacy, the second of three shows from Rainbow's September 1976 tour of Germany, newly mixed from the multi-tracks, is nearing release, and follows the pattern set by the previously issued Cologne recordings. Only one track from this particular gig is believed to have ever been issued before ("Catch the Rainbow" on the old Connoisseur title "Live in Germany"). The show dates from September 27, 1976 in Düsseldorf, Germany, and features the regular set list from that tour: 01. Kill the King 02. Mistreated 03. Sixteenth Century Greensleeves 04. Catch the Rainbow 05. Man on the Silver Mountain 06. Stargazer 07. Still I'm Sad The CD can be pre-ordered now via Deep-Purple.net mail order and release is expected in November. Twisted Sister's version of "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus" (written by Thomas Connor; first recorded by Jimmy Boyd in 1952) has been posted online at the band's official MySpace page. The track will be included on Twisted Sister's recently completed "final" disc, A Twisted Christmas, featuring metal versions of holiday classics, including "Deck the Halls" and "Oh Come All Ye Faithful". In a recent interview with Doug Podell of Detroit's WRIF 101.1 FM, Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider stated about the upcoming CD, "We've been in the studio… I don't know if you heard about this. It came to us that when it comes to Christmas, there's every kind of music Christmas records — there's jazz, there's barbershop quartet, there's classical, there's easy listening — but there's no old-school metal. And we have just finished recording 'A Twisted Christmas' — 10 traditional Christmas songs done '80s-metal style. I'm telling you — it works. It's unbelievable. It rocks. "You know what? Years ago, back in the '80s, I was saying, 'Man, it would be great if all the bands got together and we each took a Christmas song and did it our own way.' So what J.J. [French, guitar] — knowing this is the last year for me — said, 'What do you think about doing a Christmas record?' And I said, 'You know what? That could just be insane enough to be successful.' So we went in and the stuff works, man. We've got an AC/DC-type version of 'Silver Bells', a Maiden version of… This is what we did: We approached it like, 'How would these bands do it?' A Maiden version of 'White Christmas', Thin Lizzy, a Judas Priest 'I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus'. It rocks. Me and Lita Ford did a duet, power ballad-style, on 'I'll Be Home for Christmas'; it came out incredible." A Twisted Christmas (view cover here) track listing: 01. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas 02. Oh Come All Ye Faithful 03. White Christmas 04. I'll Be Home For Christmas (feat. Lita Ford) 05. Silver Bells 06. I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Clause 07. Let It Snow 08. Deck the Halls 09. The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire) 10. Heavy Metal Christmas (The Twelve Days of Christmas) A Twisted Christmas is scheduled for release on October 17 via Razor & Tie Records. Christian thrash metaler’s Deliverance reunited for a one-off gig at the Up From The Ashes 2 Christian metal festival, which took place on Saturday (September 2) at the Chapel of the Hills Sanctuary in Sunland, California. As a surprise, Jim Chaffin — the former Crucified/Deliverance and current Once Dead drummer — joined the band to perform the classic Deliverance track "No Time". Axel Rudi Pell's latest CD, Mystica, has entered the German national chart at position No. 27. As previously reported, the CD debuted on the Swedish chart at position No. 56. The album was released in North America on September 26, and was co-produced/engineered by Charlie Bauerfeind. It features artwork by Colombian illustrator Felipe Machado Franco. Axel explained the story behind the cover and the album: "The five knights are on their way home now since they released their crown back from the evil breed during their visit at the 'Kings and Queens' castle. Their way will lead them back passing the 'Shadow Zone' and sailing on through the 'Oceans Of Time'. Of course it is a rather mystical travel and they are attacked by various creatures... I included some of this lyrical content in a few of the new songs, but not in all of 'em." German power metaler’s Symphorce, featuring Brainstorm frontman Andy B. Franck, have announced the addition of drummer Steffen Theurer to the group's ranks. The band is currently working on material for its upcoming CD, Become Death, which it expects to begin recording in November at the House of Music studios in Winterach, Germany with producer Dennis Ward. "It seems like this is going to be the hardest and probably heaviest output ever," Symphorce writes on its web site. The cover artwork will be handled by Thomas Ewerhard. A February/March 2007 release is expected. Symphorce's last album, GodSpeed, was released in September 2005 via Metal Blade Records. The follow-up to 2004's Twice Second was recorded at House of Music studios and features 10 tracks. A limited-edition version of the album includes a bonus DVD of approximately 45 minutes of "live and backstage" footage and the video clip for "Cause of Laughter". The cover artwork was designed by Travis Smith (Iced Earth, Nevermore). Atlanta's Mastodon has made its entire new album, Blood Mountain, available for streaming via its MySpace page page. Blood Mountain is scheduled for release on September 12 via Warner Bros. Records. A video for the song "The Wolf is Loose" can be viewed by clicking here. The clip was shot on August 12 with director Jonathan Rej (Further Seems Forever, Stretch Armstrong), who worked with the band on the video for "Blood and Thunder" from 2004's Leviathan. Mastodon are currently touring in support of the album with dates scheduled through October 7. The Bronx and Converge have been tapped as support. The band will then take off for a month (guitarist Bill Kelliher's got a baby on the way) before heading to Europe for a headlining run there. Mastodon will be touring the States again in early 2007, with plans to stay on the road for much of the year. German hard rock singer Doro will release a special "winter edition" of her latest album, Warrior Soul, on November 20 through AFM Records. Dubbed 20 Years A Warrior Soul, the set will include the regular album plus a bonus DVD featuring footage from Doro's December 2003 20th anniversary gig in Düsseldorf, Germany and a CD containing new/previously unreleased tracks. A special "fan box" will also be included, according to a posting on the AFM web site. Warrior Soul, was released in North America in May via Locomotive Records. The CD was created in Switzerland, Tennessee, New York and Germany; and inspired by her first feature film role earlier this year in Luke Gasser's "Anuk - The Warrior's Way". The sound returns Doro to the ways of her first band, Warlock, which she fronted to forever change the face of modern metal music. It stands in perfect contrast to her last opus, 2004's Classic Diamonds, in which she stretched out to perform decidedly non-metal ballads and mid-tempo rockers with a symphony orchestra. Here — with bassist Nick Douglas, guitarist Joe Taylor, keyboardist Oliver Palotai and drummer Johnny Dee — Doro is back to major league metal form, hard-charging through 12 tracks in a beefy 54:10. 8/11/06   Stratovarius frontman Timo Kotipelto has entered Sonic Pump Studios in Helsinki, Finland in August to begin recording his third solo album, tentatively due in early 2007 via his own label, High and Loud Records. "Mirka [Rantanen] has already laid down some good drum tracks with excellent drum sounds at the Sonic Pump Studios," Timo writes on his web site.   Kotipelto's sophomore solo album, Coldness, was released in Europe in April 2004 through Century Media Records. The follow-up to 2002's Waiting for the Dawn was recorded by Children Of Bodom keyboardist Janne Wirman at his Beyond Abilities Studios as well as by Tero Kostermaa at High and Loud's Elk Studios and Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, where the mixing (Mikko Karmila) and the mastering (Mika Jussila) also took place. Matthias Norén, who has previously worked with bands like Into Eternity, Lost Horizon and Evergrey, designed the album's artwork.   Progressive metal act Symphony X has set Paradise Lost as the title of the follow-up to 2002's The Odyssey, tentatively due before the end of the year. The band expects to return to the road shortly after the release of the new album.   Symphony X was recently forced to cancel a couple of European festival appearances after bassist Michael LePond was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease (an inflammatory bowel disorder). He has since undergone surgery and has been released from the hospital.   Symphony X was one of the second-stage bands at last summer's Gigantour, a six-week festival trek co-headlined by Megadeth and Dream Theater. Rarities and Demos, the first fan club CD from the Symphony X fan club, Church of the Machine, was shipped out in July 2005 to fan club members. The CD included demo material, rare unreleased material, and guitarist Michael James Romeo's interpretation of the Star Wars theme, done with over 15 guitar tracks.   According to Hits daily Double, San Diego Christian rockers P.O.D. have left their longtime label Atlantic Records. "We've been proud to be Atlantic recording artists, but it's not the same place anymore," reads a statement from the band. "For most of our stay, we were blessed by a staff that was gracious towards their vision, faith, and love of music... It's time to dream again with a new staff and we leave with grateful hearts."   P.O.D.'s latest album, Testify, sold just over 54,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 9 on The Billboard 200 chart.   Testify is the follow-up to Payable on Death, which opened with 106,000 copies back in November 2003 to debut at No. 9 on The Billboard 200.   P.O.D. recently revealed their own skate shoe line with Tribal Clothing, "The Warrior".   Evanescence has lined up 17 theater gigs that will constitute the first leg of its world tour, according to MTV.com.   The initial North American run will kick off in Toronto on October 5 - two days after the group's new album, The Open Door, lands in stores - with dates scheduled through October 29 in San Francisco. Evanescence then plan on heading across the pond for a brief run of European shows, after which they'll return to the States before year's end to play in larger arenas.   In other news, Evanescence has found a replacement for recently departed bassist William Boyd in former Revolution Smile guitarist Tim McCord, who'll be switching instruments to fill the void.   Evanescence tour dates:   Oct. 05 - Toronto, ON @ Kool Haus Oct. 06 - Montreal, QC @ Metropolis Oct. 07 - Boston, MA @ Avalon Ballroom Oct. 09 - New York, NY @ Hammerstein Ballroom Oct. 10 - Philadelphia, PA @ Electric Factory Oct. 11 - Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club Oct. 13 - Detroit, MI @ State Theatre Oct. 14 - Milwaukee, WI @ Eagles Ballroom Oct. 15 - Minneapolis, MN @ The Quest Oct. 17 - Chicago, IL @ Aragon Ballroom Oct. 21 - Dallas, TX @ McFarlin Memorial Auditorium Oct. 22 - Houston, TX @ Verizon Wireless Theatre Oct. 24 - Denver, CO @ Paramount Theatre Oct. 25 - Salt Lake City, UT @ In the Venue Oct. 27 - Phoenix, AZ @ Celebrity Theatre Oct. 28 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern LG Oct. 29 - San Francisco, CA @ Warfield Theatre   According to Hits Daily Double, Slayer's Christ Illusion (American/Warner Bros.) is poised to sell between 55,000 and 60,000 copies in the United States during its first week of release to land in the Top 10 on The Billboard 200 chart.   Christ Illusion is Slayer's first new studio album since 2001, and the first recorded by the group's original line-up - Kerry King (guitar), Tom Araya (bass, vocals), Jeff Hanneman (guitars), Dave Lombardo (drums) - since 1990's Seasons In The Abyss. The CD was produced by Josh Abraham and executive-produced by Rick Rubin.   III: In the Eyes of Fire was recorded at a Seattle studio with producer Terry Date (Pantera, Deftones). A limited-edition version of III: In the Eyes of Fire includes a bonus DVD containing the "making of" footage for the album and a live video filmed on the Sounds of The Underground tour.   Century Media Records has set an October 31 North American release date for Nightwish's Highest Hopes - The Best of Nightwish. Originally released in Europe by Spinefarm Records, the collection spans the band’s recording career. Certified double platinum in Finland, "Highest Hopes" debuted No. 1 on the Finnish charts, and in the top 25 across Europe. In 2005 the album helped to secure Nightwish the 2005 Best Finnish Artist award and the award for the top-selling Finnish album of 2005. Making their domestic premiere are songs "Walking In The Air", "Deep Silent Complete", "Sleeping Sun" and "Ever Dream", heretofore only available on hard-to-find and limited import singles for North American fans. The collection also includes the first and second singles from the Once album. "Nemo", the first single debuted at No. 1 on the German charts, stayed in the U.K. charts for more than a year, received the "2004 Best Song" award from Germany's Rockantenne and helped propel the band's 2004 album Once to triple platinum in Finland, platinum status in Germany and gold in Greece and Sweden. The second single, "Wish I Had An Angel", debuted in both the Finnish and German charts at No. 1 and appeared in the soundtrack for the movie Alone In The Dark.   Highest Hopes – The Best of Nightwish track listing:   01. Wish I Had an Angel 02. Stargazers 03. The Kinslayer 04. Ever Dream 05. Elvenpath 06. Bless the Child 07. Nemo 08. Sleeping Sun (2005 version) 09. Dead to the World 10. Over The Hills And Far Away 11. Deep Silent Complete 12. Sacrament of Wilderness 13. Walking in the Air 14. Wishmaster 15. Dead Boy’s Poem 16. High Hopes   Venom's previously announced North American tour, which was scheduled to start on August 13 in New York City, has been cancelled, apparently due to "immigration problems" (as announced by frontman Dez Fafara of the support act Devildriver). The British black metal pioneers are believed to be trying to reschedule the dates for early September, although this has not yet been officially confirmed.   Venom's new album, Metal Black, was released in North America on April 4 via Sanctuary Records. The CD was mixed at the Townhouse Studios in London and contains 14 new songs.   Venom recently recorded a session for the BBC at London's Maida Vale studios. The session, which was broadcast on Radio 1 on April 11 during Mike Davies' Rock Show, marked the second BBC recording by Venom since 1985, when they laid down four tracks for Tommy Vance's Friday Rock Show.     6/16/06 Avenged Sevenfold and Dragonforce have been added to the main-stage lineup of this year's Ozzfest, which is scheduled to kick off June 29 in Auburn, Washington. "Ozzfest has so much history," says Avenged Sevenfold vocalist M. Shadows. "We are honored to be sharing the stage with so many great bands and even more excited in being part of the legacy that is Ozzfest." Meanwhile, Ozzy Osbourne — who recently announced an Ozzfest first with his decision to headline the second stage at the festival's July 8 stop at San Bernardino, CA's Hyundai Pavilion of Glen Helen — has elected to headline two additional shows on the second stage on this summer's trek (July 11 in San Antonio, TX at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre and July 22 in East Troy, WI at the Alpine Valley Music Theatre). The move will place the festival's founder and namesake directly into the outstretched hands of his devoted fans. A management representative for Dragonlord — the San Francisco-based black metal band featuring Eric Peterson (guitar, vocals; Testament), Gian Pyres (guitar; ex-Cradle Of Filth), Derrick Ramirez (bass), Lyle Livingstone (keys) and Jon Allen (drums; Sadus, ex-Teatament) — has issued the following statement: "I have been informed that Gian Pyres, Dragonlord guitarist, has developed very bad tendonitis in his left hand. Accordingly, his doctor advises refraining from playing guitar for the immediate future for fear of more permanent damage. Therefore, he is not available for the scheduled Dragonlord tour and thus the Dragonlord tour must be postponed at this time. He apologizes for any and all inconveniences as does Dragonlord, and hopes that the tour can be rescheduled as soon as possible. At this time, due to the foregoing unforeseen problem, the Dragonlord tour from June 23, 2006 to July 8, 2006, is cancelled." As previously reported, Dragonlord have been added to the upcoming Thrash Domination 2006 two-day mini-festival, set to take place on September 16-17 at Club Citta in Tokyo, Japan. Also scheduled to appear are Venom, Death Angel, Sodom and Onslaught. Dragonlord's sophomore album, "Black Wings of Destiny", was released in the U.S. in October 2005 via Escapi Music. The follow-up to 2001's "Rapture" (Spitfire Records) was recorded and mixed by Fredrik Nordström (Hammerfall, Dimmu Borgir, Arch Enemy) at Studio Fredman in Gothenburg, Sweden. Vocalist Sean Peck of the San Diego, California-based heavy metal band Cage has posted the following message on the group's official web site: "For those of you who were wondering, Cage is alive and well and currently working on several exciting projects. The ambitious nature of these is such that all must remain secret for now. For up-to-the-minute Cage conversations and info, click on this link for our MySpace page which has received quite a lot of activity in the past few months. Stay tuned and patient and all will be rewarded!" Cage’s third CD, Darker Than Black, was released in Europe in April 2003 via Germany's Massacre Records. The album was produced at Silvercloud Studio by Richard Carr (Halford, Bruce Dickinson). Blind Guardian have announced the details of their North American tour in support of their new album, A Twist In The Myth, which is slated for a September 2006 release via Nuclear Blast Records. The dates are as follows: Nov. 08 - Marquee Theatre - Phoenix, AZ Nov. 09 - House Of Blues - San Diego, CA Nov. 10 - Galaxy Theatre - Santa Ana, CA Nov. 11 - Avalon - Los Angeles, CA Nov. 12 - Fillmore - San Francisco, CA Nov. 14 - TBA - Vancouver, BC Nov. 15 - El Corazon - Seattle, WA Nov. 17 - Avalon - Salt Lake City, UT Nov. 18 - Gothic Theatre - Denver, CO Nov. 20 - The Rave - Milwaukee, WI Nov. 21 - House Of Blues - Chicago, IL Nov. 22 - The Quest - Minneapolis, MN Nov. 24 - Newport Music Hall - Columbus, OH Nov. 25 - Harpo`s - Detroit, MI Nov. 26 - Opera House - Toronto, ON Nov. 28 - Salle Albert-Rousseau - Québec City, QC Nov. 29 - The Medley - Montreal, QC Nov. 30 - tba - New York, NY Dec. 01 - Palladium - Worcester, MA Dec. 02 - TBA - Philadelphia, PA Dec. 04 - 9.30 Club - Washington, D.C. Dec. 05 - TBA Dec. 07 - House Of Blues - Orlando, FL Dec. 08 - Roxy - Atlanta, GA Dec. 09 - House Of Blues - New Orleans, LA Dec. 10 - Meridian - Houston, TX Dec. 11 - Backroom - Austin, TX More dates will be announced soon. Denmark's Mercenary have wrapped up recording and mixing their new album, "The Hours That Remain", with producer Jacob Hansen (RAUNCHY, Communic, Maroon, Hatesphere), who had previously worked with the group on their 11 Dreams offering. Commented the group: "We made what we feel is the most powerful album in the band's history. Both the writing and the recording processes have really made us a stronger band as we faced quite a few challenges along the way. We can't wait for people to check out the new stuff, and look forward to playing it all live." Packaged with beautiful artwork by Travis Smith (Death, Nevermore, Opeth, etc.), The Hours That Remain will feature the following track listing (in no particular order): 01. Redefine Me 02. Year Of The Plague 03. My World Is Ending 04. This Eternal Instant 05. Lost Reality 06. Soul Decision 07. Simplicity Demand 08. Obscure Indiscretion 09. My Secret Window 10. The Hours That Remain "The Hours That Remain" is scheduled for release on August 21 via Century Media Records. Killswitch Engage's stunning cover of Dio's "Holy Diver" — which was one of several exclusive tracks that were made available on a special CD accompanying Kerrang!'s 25th anniversary issue (out on the stands May 31) — has been posted online at this location. Entitled High Voltage, the 15-track disc was made up of classic rock and metal songs covered by contemporary bands, with 10 of the tracks recorded exclusively for the CD. More information is available at this location. A brand new Killswitch Engage song, entitled "This Fire Burns", was recently included on the WWE: Wreckless Intent compilation, available now on Columbia Records. The collection — which features wrestlers' themes heard during the WWE's TV shows such as "SmackDown!", "RAW", "WrestleMania", and "Saturday Night's Main Event", as performed by today's top-selling aggro-rock and rap artists — also included new, exclusive material from Shadowsfall, Zebrahead, Motorhead and more. According to a posting on Opeth's official web site, the band's cover of Deep Purple's "Soldier of Fortune" — recorded at the BBC and set up as a bonus track for the upcoming special edition of Ghost Reveries — will be re-recorded at the famed Atlantis studios in Stockholm. This is due to unforeseen legal problems with the BBC in the U.K. Therefore the BBC recording won't be available other than through downloads. Other tracks recorded during the BBC sessions were "The Grand Conjuration" and "When". As previously reported, the special-edition deluxe version of Ghost Reveries will be released later this year via Roadrunner Records. Other bonus material on the set will include a 40-minute documentary about the making of the record complete with the band's own private tour footage, the video for "The Grand Conjuration", liner notes, photos, an enhanced 24-page booklet, deluxe sleeve, and 5.1 surround exclusive mix of the record made by original mixed/engineer Jens Bogren. Opeth recently announced the departure of longtime drummer Martin Lopez. After being plagued by illness and anxiety attacks, Lopez decided he wanted to concentrate fully on his own project, currently unnamed. His replacement will be Martin "Axe" Axenrot, who's been filling in for the last five tours and who also recorded with the band during the recent BBC sessions. Swedish Viking death metal heroes Amon Amarth have set With Oden On Our Side as the title of their sixth full-length album, due in September 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 Metal Blade Records recently issued an Amon Amarth DVD, entitled Wrath of the Norsemen. The three-disc set was released in a deluxe 10-page digipack with special gold-laminated slipcase. The main body of the DVD is the Cologne show from last year — filmed with 11 cameras, this was the longest show Amon Amarth have ever played (23 songs!). Bonus footage includes interviews, behind-the-scenes of the DVD recording and other stuff filmed around the Cologne show. Discs 2 and 3 feature professionally filmed shows from Summer Breeze 2005, the Metal Blade Rrroooaaarrr 2005 (a show with a really unusual setlist!), Wacken Open Air 2004 and the release show for Fate of Norns in Ludwigsburg (Germany) in 2004. 5/17/06 German power metaler’s Blind Guardian have confirmed A Twist in the Myth as the title of their new album, tentatively due in September via Nuclear Blast Records. A Twist in the Myth (view cover here) track listing: 01. This Will Never End (5:07) 02. Otherland (5:14) 03. Turn the Page (4:16) 04. Fly (5:43) 05. Carry the Blessed Home (4:03) 06. Another Stranger Me (4:36) 07. Straight through the Mirror (5:48) 08. Lionheart (4:15) 09. Skalds and Shadows (3:13) 10. The Edge (4:27) 11. The New Order (4:49) Blind Guardian recently released a single, Fly, containing two exclusive tracks: an acoustic version of "Skalds and Shadows" and Blind Guardian’s version of the Iron Butterfly classic "In A Gadda Da Vida" (previously covered by Slayer). Blind Guardian’s upcoming CD is their first with drummer Frederik Ehmke, who replaced Thomen Stauch last year. Dragonforce are believed to be under consideration for the upcoming Gigantour 2, which is slated to kick off late August. The trek's organizer, Dave Mustaine of Megadeth, was seen checking the band out at their May 11 concert at the Whisky A Go Go in West Hollywood, California. Furthermore, DRAGONFORCE guitarist Herman Li recently told MTV.com that his band were working on securing a spot on an American festival tour — like Sounds of the Underground or Gigantour 2 — so fans who missed them on their recently completed short U.S. run might be able to catch the 'FORCE this summer. Dragonforce's third album, Inhuman Rampage, which was issued in Europe four months back, will receive a U.S. release on June 20 via Roadrunner Records. Rob Zombie will be the featured musical guest on CBS' "Late Night Show with David Letterman" airing on Wednesday, May 24 at 11:30 p.m. ET/PT. Zombie will be teaming up with Anthrax for the "American Witch Across America" tour beginning on June 30 in El Paso, Texas. Rob is also rumored to be joining Godsmack on tour as a co-headliner this fall. Zombie completed a North American run on May 5 in Grand Prairie, Texas — his first in support of his recently released Educated Horses album. Educated Horses, Zombie's third solo album, has sold 247,000 copies in the U.S. since being released on March 28. "The Haunted World of Superbeasto", an animated film based on Zombie's El Superbeasto comic book character, will be out later this year. The rocker-turned-filmmaker is also working on the script for his third live-action feature. Wicked Wisdom — the five-piece band featuring actress Jada Pinkett Smith (wife of Will Smith) — will be performing on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" on Wednesday, May 17. The show airs nationally on NBC from 11:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. ET/PT. Wicked Wisdom's self-titled debut album was released in February via 100% Womon/Suburban Noize Records. Wicked Wisdom recently completed a U.S. tour as the support act for Sevendust. The band plan on jumping back on tour this week. A list of upcoming tour dates can be found at this location. Roadrunner Records has officially announced the signing of Megadeth. Recognized as one of rock's most forward-thinking bands, Megadeth and its frontman Dave Mustaine have cast a long shadow on the metal and hard rock landscape with millions of records sold worldwide and an undeniable influence echoed in scores of young bands today. "We are proud to be working with one of the chief architects of modern hard rock and metal: Dave Mustaine," says Roadrunner A&R man Mike Gitter. “Megadeth and Roadrunner have led parallel careers on the cutting edge of metal for years now. The combination of the two is bound to be lethal." Mustaine says of his new home, "It is exciting to be some place you are respected, understood and appreciated. The truth is there's a lot of people I've known there over the years. I'm stoked we're all coming back together again to work on this project." Megadeth has begun work on its as-yet-untitled Roadrunner debut under the watchful eye of Mustaine and co-producer Jeff Balding. The studio sessions — held at Sarm Studios, outside of London — were filmed by director Michael Sarna (Anthrax, Obituary) and are available at Megadeth.com to fan-club members. Megadeth’s last CD, The System Has Failed, came out in September 2004. The group, who were most recently signed to Sanctuary Records, were joined by bassist James Lomenzo (ex-Black Label Society, White Lion) in February following the departure of James MacDonough (ex-Iced Earth). Mustaine is also presently finalizing the lineup for Megadeth's Gigantour 2 festival of the U.S., tentatively set to kick off late August. Nevermore were forced to cancel their scheduled appearance with In Flames, Throwdown and Evergrey on Saturday, May 13 in Grand Rapids, Michigan after the band's lead singer, Warrel Dane, came down with an unspecified illness. No further information is currently available. As previously reported, Nevermore guitarist Steve Smyth was recently diagnosed with end-stage kidney failure, the result of a congenital birth defect. Jag Panzer guitarist Chris Broderick is filling in for Smyth on the current U.S. tour, after which Smyth will rejoin the band for their European festival dates. Nevermore also announced that their bass player and one of the founding members Jim Sheppard will soon be undergoing a minor procedure for Crohn's Disease, a condition he's managed for over 15 years. Unable to perform with the band during the first part of their tour with In Flames, Sheppard is being temporarily replaced by longtime friend James MacDonough (ex-Megadeth, Iced Earth). Nevermore, who recently wrapped up a series of dates with Arch Enemy, will be supporting Disturbed across Europe this fall. After their touring activity the band will be taking time off to write the follow-up to last year's critically acclaimed album "This Godless Endeavor". German rockers the Scorpions have lined up the following dates during the coming months: May 19 - Metz (Amneville), FRA @ Galaxie May 27 - Dachau (Acoustica), GER @ Ludwig-Thoma-Wiese Jun. 07 - Hannover, GER @ Waterlooplatz (Free Event) Jun. 23 - Stara Zagora, BUL @ Stadium Jun. 30 - Costa Mesa, CA @ TBA Jul. 01 - Las Vegas, NV @ Hard Rock Hotel - The Joint Jul. 02 - Kelseyville, CA @ Konocti Harbor Resort & Spa Jul. 03 - Salinas, CA @ TBA Jul. 08 - Quebec City QC @ Quebec International Summer Festival Jul. 15 - Santander, SPA @ TBA Jul. 19 - Athens, GRE @ Karaiskaki Arena Jul. 21 - Thessaloniki, GRE @ TBA Jul. 23 - Lemesos, CYP @ Tsirion Stadium Jul. 28 - Mala Skala, CZR @ TBA Jul. 29 - Dresden, GER @ Filmnächte am Elbufer Jul. 31 - Ulaanbaatar, MON @ TBA Aug. 03 - Wacken, GER @ Wacken Open Air Aug. 19 - Huse på Jaeren, NOR @ venue tba Aug. 26 - Berlin, GER @ TBA Sep. 09 - Düsseldorf, GER @ Polo Rockfestival 2006 As previously reported, The Scorpions have tapped songwriter/producer Desmond Child — who has worked with such high-profile pop/rock artists as Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, Alice Cooper, KISS, Ricky Martin, Cher, Michael Bolton and Bonnie Tyler — to produce their next studio album, which they expect to begin recording later in the year for a 2007 release. Child, who is currently working with Michael Beinhorn, Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman as co-producer on Meat Loaf's "Bat Out of Hell III: The Last at Bat" CD, has also been mentioned as Mötley Crüe singer Vince Neil's likely collaborator on Neil's new solo album, which the vocalist was previously said to be planning to record this spring/summer. Desmond and Neil had previously collaborated on "Promise Me", Neil's 2004 single. The Scorpions latest album, Unbreakable, was released in the U.S. in June 2004 through Sanctuary Records. The CD was recorded at Peppermint Park Studio in Hannover, Germany and was mixed at Wisseloord studios in Hilversum, Holland. W.A.S.P. have announced the addition of drummer Mike Dupke (photo, MySpace.com; Hair Of The Dog, Eric Sardinas) and guitarist Mark Zavon (photo; Stephen Pearcy, 40 Cycle Hum) to the group's ranks. The band's U.S. tour is scheduled to kick off May 19 in Sacramento, California. A complete list of currently confirmed tour dates can be found at this location. As reported on May 2, former W.A.S.P. guitarist Darrell Roberts — who joined W.A.S.P. in 2001 before the "Unholy Terror" American tour to replace Chris Holmes — is in the process of putting together a four-piece group that he will be fronting. "I am looking for a drummer and second guitarist (that can sing)!" Darrell wrote in an April 19, 2006 posting at his MySpace.com page. "I want to work with people that live in the Los Angeles area or are open to the idea of relocating here. I am only interested in musicians that wanna do this for the love of music and to help me build this thing into the monster that I know it can be! So if you, or someone you know thinks they got the goods let me know [as soon as possible]!!! All you dreamers that are looking for immediate pay or a 'signed' situation, please look elsewhere and good luck." For more information, click here. W.A.S.P. had utilized the services of Yngwie Malmsteen drummer Patrick Johansson for the U.S. dates they played in February/March. Update: Less than a week after announcing the addition of guitarist Mark Zavon (Stephen Pearcy, 40 Cycle Hum) to the group's ranks following the departure of Darrell Roberts, W.A.S.P. appears to have had a change of heart and have welcomed back axeman Doug Blair. Born February 11, 1963 as Douglas Blair Lucek, Doug Blair was a member of W.A.S.P. for a short time in 1992, according to Wikipedia. He was also a quick replacement on W.A.S.P.'s Unholy Terror Tour in 2001 on two festival gigs when Chris Holmes left the band. His current band is Signal2Noise with percussionist/vocalist John Anthony. They have been working on their seven-song debut "Fighting Mental Illness". You can learn more about Signal2Noise at www.s2nusa.com or www.myspace.com/s2nusa Blair is known for inventing the innovative instrument the "GuitarCross" which blend five guitar strings with three bass strings (guitar strings sent to one amplifier, bass strings to another) to make a very unique sound. He uses this invention in S2N and also uses a unique 12-string acoustic named "Asia." Portugal's Moonspell will be teaming up with Katatonia and Daylight Dies for a North American tour beginning around October 12. Exact cities and dates will be announced soon. As previously reported, Moonspell's latest CD, Memorial, recently entered the Portuguese album chart at position No. 1. Memorial also entered the charts at Nr. 68 in Germany and Nr. 181 in France. The album was produced by Waldemar Sorychta (Lacuna Coil, The Gathering, Samael) at Woodhouse Studios in Hagen, Germany. Moonspell are expected to release a DVD, entitled Lunar Still/13 Years of Doom, via Century Media later in the year 4/6/06 Roadrunner Records has set a July 3 release date for the new Black Label Society album Shot to Hell. A couple of photos of the band in the studio recording the album with producer Michael Beinhorn (Soundgarden, Ozzy Osbourne, Red Hot Chili Peppers) have been posted online at RockConcertFotos.com. Due this summer, Shot to Hell will be Black Label Society's first release for Roadrunner. The album is the follow-up to Mafia, which debuted in March 2005 at #15 on the Billboard Top 200 Album chart and at #1 on the Top Independent Albums chart. The top rock track "In This River" from "Mafia" will be on the upcoming MTV2 Headbangers Ball: The Revenge album, due out April 11. BLS, who were just announced as the Ozzfest second stage headliner, will tour the world extensively in support of the new album. Zakk is currently finishing up the newest from BLS and writing and recording with Ozzy Osbourne for his new album. Reunited Swedish hard rockers Europe have posted the following message on their official web site: "We're now getting very close to start recording our new album. We've decided to work yet again in good old Stockholm. The rehearsal and pre-production will take place this spring, starting in May, and we're aiming to have the album recorded and mixed by July. The plan is then to have the CD ready for release in October/November. The production will be handled by us (Europe), and it will be recorded and engineered by Pontus Norgren [ex-Talisman, Great King Rat, The Poodles], who was also our live sound engineer during the 'Start From The Dark Tour'. At the moment, we have about 15-17 song ideas. Joey [Tempest, vocals] is writing in London, [John] Norum [guitar] in L.A. Mic [Michaeli, keyboards], Ian [Haugland, drums] and [Jon] Leven [bass] in Stockholm. We will probably record 12 tracks for the CD. Everything is running very smooth and there is a chance we'll meet up for one more writing session before we start the pre-production. We have a really great feeling about the new album, and we can't wait to get started so that we can get out on the road and see you guys again." As previously reported, Europe’s acoustic version of "Yesterday's News", recorded during an appearance on the Stockholm, Sweden radio station 106.7 Rockklassiker on December 7, 2005, has been made available for download at this location. Europe entered the Swedish Music DVD chart at position No. 9 in December 2005 with their live DVD, entitled Live from the Dark. The two-disc set features the group's November 15, 2004 concert at the Hammersmith Apollo in London, England along with video clips, interviews, band information and a section called "Taxi Diaries." More information is available at this location. The group's first collection of new material since 1991's Prisoners In Paradise, Start from the Dark was produced by Kevin Elson, who had previously worked with Europe on their multi-platinum 1986 release, Final Countdown. American/Norwegian melodic metaler’s Kamelot will be teaming up with the female-fronted Dutch outfit Epica for a North American tour beginning in September. Confirmed dates so far are as follows: Sep. 15 - Cuture Room - Ft. Lauderdale, FL (no EPICA) Sep. 16 - State Theater - St. Petersburg, FL (no EPICA) Sep. 19 - Jaxx Nightclub - Springfield, VA Sep. 20 - B.B. King's - New York, NY Sep. 22 - The Chance Theater - Poughkeepsie, NY Sep. 23 - The Penny Arcade - Rochester, NY Sep. 24 - Le Medley - Montreal, QC Sep. 25 - Imperial - Quebec, QC Sep. 27 - The Opera House - Toronto, ON Sep. 28 - Agora Theater - Cleveland, OH Sep. 29 - Harpo's - Detroit, MI Sep. 30 - The Pearl Room - Chicago, IL Oct. 02 - Star Central - Columbia Heights, MN Oct. 06 - Studio Seven - Seattle, WA Oct. 07 - Rock N Roll Pizza - Portland, OR Oct. 08 - Pound SF - San Francisco, CA Oct. 10 - Galaxy Theater - Santa Ana, CA Oct. 11 - Key Club - Los Angeles, CA Kamelot are currently working on their first DVD, One Cold Winter's Night, tentatively due this fall/winter. The disc, which was recorded in Oslo, Norway, includes special appearances by Simone Simons (Epica), Sascha Paeth and Snowy Shaw, plus many others. Kamelot are tentatively scheduled to enter the studio this summer to begin recording the follow-up to The Black Halo, which came out in March 2005 via SPV Records. Long-running German hard rockers Kingdom Come have set a tentative September 15 release date for their new album. The CD will be the follow-up to Perpetual, which came out in 2004. As previously reported, Kingdom Come will be teaming up with Helloween for a U.S. tour beginning in mid-October. Confirmed dates so far are as follows: Oct. 16 - New York, NY @ B.B. King Blues Club & Grill Oct. 18 - West Springfield, VA @ Jaxx Kingdom Come cancelled their U.S. tour in early 2005 due to problems in obtaining correct work permits in time for the trek. According to Hits Daily Double, Rob Zombie's latest CD, Educated Horses, sold 107,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release debuting at No. 5 on this week's Billboard 200 chart. The official sales figures and chart positions were released early Wednesday morning (April 5). Educated Horses is the former White Zombie vocalist's first collection of new music since 2001's The Sinister Urge, following a break in which he wrote and directed his first two feature films, House of 1000 Corpses and The Devil's Rejects. The title of the album, Educated Horses, comes from Zombie's childhood when he used to go on the road with his family, who worked in carnivals that often featured trained animals. Zombie is currently scripting his next feature film, but has not yet announced what it will be. An animated movie based on his El Superbeasto comic book character is due out sometime later this year. Legendary heavy metal vocalist Ronnie James Dio "wasn't invited" to Black Sabbath’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony and "wasn't bothered" by the fact that he wasn't present at the event, according to the Cleveland Scene Clubs Editor Ferris. After hearing that Ronnie wasn't at the Rock Hall, Ferris called the offices of Niji Management (which is owned by Wendy Dio) to see if Dio's camp had any kind of quote from Ronnie. Niji's Diana DeVille, who answered the phone, said, "Ronnie was not invited, but he's not bothered by it, because he is busy working on his own projects. He wishes them the best." In related news, the Celeveland Scene did a "Last Word" regarding the best non-Ozzy Osbourne Sabbath album. Results include a quote from Alternative Press editorial director Aaron Burgess. Check it out at this location. Dio recorded a total of three studio albums with Black Sabbath — 1980's Heaven and Hell, 1981's Mob Rules and 1992's Dehumanizer — in addition to appearing on the classic live album Live Evil in 1983. Sammy Hagar's video for his new track "Sam I Am", taken from his upcoming album Livin' It Up, has been posted online at this location. As previously reported, Hagar will be hitting the road in the U.S. this summer as part of the "Livin' It Up" tour. He's announced 26 dates that get underway June 3 in Devore, California, and run through August 10 in Sturgis, South Dakota. According to Launch Radio Networks, he will pull double-duty on the trek — he'll do a full set with his band the Waboritas, and he'll also perform Van Halen songs with Wabos guitarist Vic Johnson and drummer David Lauser and Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony, who are collectively known as The Other Half. Hagar is recreating the full-on Cabo Wabo experience at each tour stop, which will have a Cabo Wabo village with a bar, food vendors, mariachi bands, body builders, and of course, women in bikinis. According to Hits Daily Double, first-day reports from retailers across the United States indicate that Queensryche's Operation: Mindcrime II album will sell between 40,000 and 50,000 copies in its first week of release, which could very well put them in the teens or low twenties in next week's The Billboard 200 chart. This is more than half of the total sales tally registered by the band's last studio album, 2003's Tribe, which sold 20,000 copies in the first week and has shifted 74,000 units so far, according to Nielsen SoundScan. Meanwhile, the band's 1999 effort, Q2K, opened with sales of 28,000 and has sold 150,000 copies to date. Queensryche's top-selling album by far is 1990's Empire, which was certified triple-platinum in October 1994 for sales in excess of three million copies in the United States. The original Operation: Mindcrime release (1988) attained platinum status in August 1991, while 1994's Promised Land reached the same plateau in December 1994. 3/29/06 According to a posting on Dio’s official web site, guitarist Craig Goldy "has recovered his illness and is back in the fold," writing and rehearsing for the band's new album and tour. Craig was previously said to have hurt his arm last fall while touring with Dio in Russia. Goldy initially tried to continue playing the shows on painkillers, but was eventually forced to leave the trek. One-time Dio guitarist Doug Aldrich stepped in and completed the tour, but has since returned to Whitesnake. 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 Whitesnake. As previously reported, Eagle Rock Entertainment has set an April 18 North American release date for Dio’s Holy Diver Live CD (one day earlier internationally). Captured live in 2005 in front of a sold-out London crowd, Holy Diver Live features the classic Holy Diver album in its entirety, from start to finish, recorded live for the very first time. It also includes, among others, "Heaven & Hell", "Sign of the Southern Cross" and "Mob Rules" from vocalist Ronnie James Dio's BLACK SABBATH days, "Tarot Woman", "Man on the Silver Mountain" and "Long Live Rock 'N' Roll" from the Rainbow era and "We Rock" from his solo career. Dio’s follow-up to 2004's Master of the Moon is expected before the end of the year. Christian thrash metaler’s Tourniquet have scheduled a live performance on Friday, May 5 at the Columbia Theatre in Longview, Washington (40 minutes north of Portland). Drummer Ted Kirkpatrick will also take part in a drum clinic on Saturday, May 6 at 1:00 p.m. at a venue to be announced. As previously reported, Tourniquet will release a live DVD, "Live from Linkoping, Sweden - Bobfest 2005", this spring. "This is by far the best quality live Tourniquet footage we have ever had — both in terms of the video (four cameras) and audio," the band write in an update. "The crowd was awesome too! There will be songs included that have never been on any live Tourniquet video or DVD before — 'The Tomb of Gilgamesh' and 'Skeezix Part II', to name a couple. Also included will be songs from 'Where Moth and Rust Destroy', and of course, some old favorites." Tourniquet are currently working on new studio album, tentatively due before the end of the year. The band'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). According to The Jackson Citizen Patriot, Wicked Wisdom — the five-piece band featuring actress Jada Pinkett Smith (wife of Will Smith) — will be on tour until April 1; after a short break, the group will go back on the road with Sevendust in May. Smith plans to film "Empty City" with Adam Sandler, Don Cheadle and Liv Tyler later in the year and enter the studio with Wicked Wisdom to record the band's second album in October. For now, though, the focus is on live performance, and Smith said she counts on her listeners to keep things exciting. "It's the audience, the audience does that," Smith told The Jackson Citizen Patriot. "They paid good money to be here tonight, and you've got to give the best you've got. It's about the dance between the audience and the artist. You say to yourself, 'Get ready, it's time to tango.' " Wicked Wisdom’s self-titled debut album was released on February 21 via 100% Womon/Suburban Noize Records. According to a posting on the SickthingsUK, guitarist Ryan Roxie has left the Alice Cooper band and is likely to be replaced by Keri Kelli, who played with Ryan in Slash’s Snakepit and Dad’s Porno Mag and had stints with RATT, Warrant, Skid Row, Adler’s Appettie, Pretty Boy Floyd, and Tuff, among others. Roxie is reportedly leaving the group in order "to spend some quality time with his family." Alice Cooper will be embarking on another U.S. tour beginning in June. He will also reportedly be hitting the road in South America in November. As previously reported, Alice Cooper will visit Canada this spring for an arena tour spanning a dozen dates. The May 1-17 trek will include six gigs in Ontario and five more spread across Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Manitoba. Cooper released his 24th studio album, Dirty Diamonds, last summer. Arch Enemy drummer Daniel Erlandsson has posted the following message on the band's official web site: "Right now we’re getting ready to start rehearsing with the whole band for the upcoming Jägermeister tour with Chimaira [plus Nevermore, God Forbid and Hate Eternal]. I'm looking forward to seeing all fans and friends on the road! We'll play an hour's worth of music every night (regardless if we are closing the show or not) on this tour. So if you're coming to the show, save some headbanging for us! "It's been a while since we rehearsed with the full formation, so that's gonna be fun! As you might know, we've been working on completing the 'Live Apocalypse' DVD during this 'break' and we shot a video for 'My Apocalypse' too. We’ve also written new material for the future, some really intense and heavy material I should add!' "In other news, I'll be doing some signing sessions at the Frankfurt Music Messe on April 1st… I'll be at Pearl 11 AM, and also at the Sabian booth at 3 PM. Hope to see all you drum freaks there!" A complete list of upcoming Arch Enemy shows can be found at ArchEnemy.net. Queensryche's new album, Operation: Mindcrime II, has been made available for streaming in its entirety at Rhino.com. The band's sequel to their platinum 1988 concept album Operation: Mindcrime is scheduled for release on April 4. Legendary heavy metal vocalist Ronnie James Dio (Black Sabbath, Dio, Rainbow) makes a guest appearance on the album as "Dr. X". Queensryche have already begun working on the second video from the "Operation: Mindcrime II" album. The next clip, "The Hands", will feature a special appearance by Pamela Moore (a.k.a. Sister Mary). The "I'm American" video can currently be viewed at Yahoo! Music. As previously reported, Queensryche will be the featured guests on the nationally syndicated radio show "Rockline" airing Wednesday night March 29. The live show begins at 8:30 p.m. PT / 11:30 p.m. ET, and fans are encouraged to call in with questions during the program at (800) 344-ROCK (7625). To find a station near you, check out www.rocklineradio.com. Aerosmith have been forced to cancel the remaining dates on the fifth leg of their "Rockin' the Joint" sold-out North American tour (which has been ongoing since October 2005) in order for lead singer Steven Tyler to have surgery. Despite Aerosmith’s desire to keep the tour going as long as possible, Tyler's doctors advised him not to continue performing to give his voice time to recover. Tyler will be on total vocal rest and can not perform for an extended period of time. Aerosmith — Tyler, Joe Perry, Brad Whitford, Tom Hamilton and Joey Kramer — apologize and regret any inconvenience to their fans. The band is now on hiatus but look forward to being back in the saddle with a new album and new tour dates. Aerosmith’s latest release is the concert set Rockin' The Joint (Live At The Hard Rock Hotel Las Vegas), which was recorded at a January 2002 show. It's available on both CD and DVD. Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry said that the band hopes to start working on a new album in the spring. It will be their first studio project since 2004's Honkin' On Bobo. Southern California-based technical death metaler’s Epicedium have set an April 4 release date for their long-awaited self-titled debut album. The CD, which will be issued through the reactivated Embryo label, will feature the following track listing: 01. Homicidal Repercussion 02. Lifeforms 03. The Wrath (mp3) 04. Sacrosanta 05. The Time of Ruin 06. Legacy of Darkness (mp3) 07. The Corpse Yard 08. Repugnance 09. Plague of The Innocence 10. Horrific Eradication (mp3) Check out the album cover at this location. The artwork was designed by the British artist Martin Bland.   2/19/06 Nevermore have officially cancelled their appearance at the ProgPower USA VII festival, set to take place September 15-16 at Earthlink Live in Atlanta, Georgia. ProgPower USA organizer Glenn Harveston has issued the following statement regarding the matter: "As some of you may have read on Blabbermouth, the Disturbed/Nevermore European tour was postponed until September this year. Obviously, that conflicts with the festival date. Nevermore have officially withdrawn from the festival in order to continue with that potentially lucrative tour as of this morning. "Obviously, I am beyond disappointed. I will now begin the search for a replacement. Please be patient as I have no idea how long the process will take." ProgPower USA VII will feature performances by Evergrey, Savage Circus, Epica, Pyramaze, Wastefall, Freak Kitchen, Thunderstone, Vision Divine and Mercenary. Only 900 tickets will be made available to the public. Advance Gold Badges, which presently have a two-year wait list, are sold out. Nevermore have issued the following statement regarding the cancellation of their appearance. "Unfortunately we have had to cancel our appearance at this years ProgPower fest in Atlanta due to the Disturbed [European] tour being postponed until September and the resulting conflict of dates. This was our only option as we had committed to the Disturbed support slot prior to ProgPower, and we hope everyone understands.... On a better note, we will be announcing U.S. tour dates soon." Reunited Christian hard rockers Stryper have replaced Twisted Sister on the billing of this year's Atarfe Vega Rock festival, set to take place March 10-11 at Nave Medina Elvira in Atarfe, Granada, Spain. Twisted Sister were forced to cancel their appearance at the festival so that the group's frontman, Dee Snider, could recover from throat surgery, which is scheduled for March 1. This was scheduled after exhaustive tests by Dee's specialist when the singer lost his voice following a performance at the NAMM convention in Los Angeles on January 20. Sanctuary Records/Sony BMG has been forced to delay the release of Iron Maiden's Death On The Road DVD, scheduled for February 21, as a result of unforeseen production issues. Therefore, the U.S. premiere theater screenings through D&E Entertainment have been postponed as well. The rescheduled screenings and new release date will be announced soon. A more formal statement will follow. The three-disc package contains the full performance of Iron Maiden's Dance of Death Tour, filmed in December 2003 at the Westenfalenhalle Arena, Dortmund. The special features disc contains an exclusive documentary directed by Matthew Amos, who also directed the band's award-winning "Early Days" documentary. It's an insight into the production of the Dance of Death album from its writing and recording through to the detail in what it takes to get a massive show like Maiden on the road. According to ContactMusic.com, Ozzy Osbourne and his wife Sharon have sold the Hollywood mansion that was featured in their reality TV show for $10.8 million. The six-bedroom house, which was on the market since early last year, boasts many eclectic features, including a bathroom with a toilet seat that automatically raises when someone walks in, heats and up and provides the user with a refreshing wash and dry. Ozzy and his wife/manager decided to scale down to a smaller property when their youngest children Jack, 20, and Kelly, 21, left home. Launch Radio Networks reports: P.O.D. has announced the lineup of bands for its upcoming spring tour, dubbed the "Warriors Tour 2: Guilty By Association", at the band's official web site. The Christian rap rockers will headline over Pillar, The Chariot and Maylene, all groups with a similar spiritual bent. No dates or venues have been revealed yet, although they will most likely surface in the next few weeks. P.O.D. staged the first "Warriors" tour in 1999, which the band said in a statement was "dedicated to the fanbase that had always stood by them and supported them." The San Diego-based quartet released its new album, "Testify", on January 24. The record bowed at No. 9 on Billboard's Top 200 album chart, with sales of 58,000 copies. P.O.D. hit U.S. stages late last year on the Fall Brawl tour, alongside Staind, Taproot and Flyleaf. Disturbed have postponed their previously announced spring 2006 European headlining tour, according to various online ticketing agencies and press reports. The trek, which was scheduled to kick off in early March (with Nevermore in the support slot), was reportedly called off in order to allow singer David Draiman to rest his voice after several months of intensive touring in the U.S. in support of the band's platinum-selling new CD, Ten Thousand Fists. Back in October 2005, Disturbed cancelled the last seven shows of their European tour because Draiman was suffering from severe acid reflux. When he got back to Los Angeles, Draiman immediately underwent an endoscopy to make sure the surgical work that had been done in the past for his uncooperative stomach hadn't come undone, MTV.com reported last November. Disturbed, who are slated to stay on the road in the U.S. through February 24 in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, have rescheduled their European tour for September. Disturbed's newly rescheduled German shows (more dates to be announced): Sep. 14 – München, GER @ Tonhalle Sep. 17 - Berlin, GER @ Huxleys Neue Welt Sep. 20 - Hamburg, GER @ Große Freiheit 36 Sep. 21 - Bremen, GER @ Aladin Music Hall Sep. 24 - Dortmund, GER @ Westfalenhalle 3A A Mötley Crüe televised concert is scheduled to premiere March 24 on InDemand, according to LiveDaily.com. The performance, which was recorded during the Crüe's April 27, 2005 stop in Grand Rapids, MI, will air a number of times throughout the month. A broadcast schedule is posted at the group's web site. The same concert was issued in DVD form last October, along with behind-the-scenes footage and other bonus materials. Mötley Crüe plan to start recording a new studio album on May 1. This will be the first new studio CD by the band's original lineup since 1997's Generation Swine. Drummer Tommy Lee was not in the band for 2000's New Tattoo. 2/16/06 Swedish metaler’s Evergrey have uploaded audio samples of three new tracks from their upcoming album, Monday Morning Apocalypse, at their official web site. Check out clips of the songs "Still in the Water", "Monday Morning Apocalypse" and "Unspeakable" at www.evergrey.net. The follow-up to 2004's The Inner Circle, "Monday Morning Apocalypse" (view cover here) was recorded at Division One Studios in Gothenburg, Sweden by the experienced production team of Sanken Sandquist and Stefan Glaumann, who have previously worked with such artists as Rammstein, Bon Jovi, Britney Spears and Def Leppard. A video for the album's title cut was recently shot with director Patric Ullaeus of Revolver Film Company (Dimmu Borgir, Children Of Bodom, Lacuna Coil). An April 4 releae date via InsideOut Music is expected. As previously reported, Evergrey will make their first-ever headlining appearance in England on March 7 at The Underworld in Camden, London. Ticket information and other details are available at www.theunderworldcamden.co.uk. Evergrey have also been confirmed as one of the headliners of ProgPower USA VII festival, set to take place on Friday and Saturday, September 15 and 16 at Earthlink Live in Atlanta. Tickets will go on sale Saturday, April 1 at 10 a.m. EST via all Ticketmaster outlets. Only 900 tickets will be made available to the public. Advance Gold Badges, which presently have a two-year wait list, are sold out. Twisted Sister have been forced to cancel their appearance at this year's edition of the Atarfe Vega Rock festival, set to take place March 10-11 at Nave Medina Elvira in Atarfe, Granada, Spain. According to a band statement, "Dee Snider [Twisted Sister frontman] will go 'under the blade' and have throat surgery on March 1st 2006. This was scheduled after exhaustive tests by Dee's specialist when the singer lost his voice following a performance at the NAMM convention in Los Angeles on January 20th." Commented Snider: "I hate canceling shows and disappointing fans for any reason, but I have been advised that this surgery should not wait. My VH1 and 'House of Hair' shows will be taped, but some live performance events will have to be re-scheduled, and this particularly impacts one Twisted Sister spring festival in Spain. I have been told by my doctors that the recovery period will be about eight weeks so Twisted Sister will be performing again early in May, so our summer tour plans will not be affected." Founding Twisted Sister member and co-manager Jay Jay French said, "We all wish Dee the very best with this surgery. I have been trying to get him to shut up for the best part of thirty years, but now I am faced with a silent partner for the next eight weeks, I think I should just sit back, pour myself a drink, and enjoy it!" Italian folk/power metal band Elvenking have been confirmed as the support act for Jon Oliva’s Pain (the solo project of Savatage mastermind Jon Oliva) on their upcoming European tour. Select dates on the trek will also feature Doro and Sonata Arctica. Confirmed shows so far can be found at JonOliva.net. Elvenking released their third album, The Winter Wake, in Europe last month via AFM Records. The CD will be issued in the U.S. on March 21. The follow-up to 2004's "Wyrd" was recorded at Sherpa Studios (Italy), mixed at Sonic Pump Studios by Nino Laurenne and was mastered at Finnvox Studios by Mika Jussilla. Elvenking recently announced the departure of guitarist Jarpen. For the time being, the group will go on as a five-piece. Armed with new equipment, the 2006 version of the Rand McNally Road Atlas, and their unalterable sink-or-swim, live-or-die determination, Orange County's pride and joy Bleed The Sky hit the road once again promoting their debut release, Paradigm In Entropy. Scheduled to play 19 shows throughout the United States beginning February 23 at the Whisky in Hollywood and ending up in New York City on March 19, Bleed The Sky's first eight shows will include Los Angeles' Ankla as the support act. States BTS guitarist Wayne Miller: "The first time we played with Ankla was at The Key Club in January. Our band were fans of Puya back in the day, and we love what their ex-guitar player Ramon [Ortiz] is doing now. They're some of the nicest guys we've played with and they're an amazing band, so we asked them to come out with us. We love their talent and their stage presence. They're gonna fit well on the bill with us." In true rock 'n' roll fashion, Bleed The Sky recently completed a photo shoot replete with custom choppers and beautiful bikini-clad women for the upcoming issue of Chopperhead magazine. For a complete list of Bleed The Sky tour dates click here Reckoning Night, the latest album from the Finnish melodic metaler’s Sonata Arctica, has been certified gold in Finland for sales in excess of 15,000 copies. Sonata Arctica had previously achieved the same feat with their third album, Winterheart's Guild. Sonata Arctica’s fourth studio album, Reckoning Night, was released in 2004 via Nuclear Blast Records. A live Sonata Arctica DVD/CD, entitled For the Sake of Revenge, is scheduled for release on March 31, 2006. As previously reported, Sonata Arctica have been confirmed as the opening act for German hard rock singer Doro Pesch (ex-Warlock) on her headlining European tour in April/May 2006. In addition, Sonata Arctica have announced several headlining shows throughout Europe. A list of currently confirmed tour dates can be found at this location. Seven Witches, the East Coast-based band featuring former Savatage guitarist Jack Frost and ex-Hades frontman Alan Tecchio, have posted the following message on their official web site: "The new album, Amped, which was released in the USA is doing incredible! It's in the top 20 best-selling CDs on CD Universe three weeks in a row, FMQB #4 most added with 48 adds, debut 34 bullet with 60 spins, Media Guide debut at 21 bullet with 12 spins, CMJ Loud Rock #5 most added with 78 adds, is being added to playlists on radio stations across the country and is already the fastest-selling Seven Witches CD to date, already in its second pressing in the U.S.A, having sold out the first within the first two weeks of release and already well into its second pressing in Europe and abroad. Needless to say, it's already been a great year for Seven Witches. "In touring news, Seven Witches take to the road in March, supporting legendary metal act W.A.S.P. Be sure to get your tickets early as these show are sure to sell out QUICK! Seven Witches are currently putting the finishing touches on a European tour scheduled to start in April with West Coast shows and Canadian shows to follow in April and May. "In other news, the DVD has once again run into problems, this time with distribution problems and will be delayed again a few more months. We here at the Witches camp are as disappointed about this as anyone looking for the DVD, but we promise it'll be worth it. The footage from the Allentown, P.A. show is great and the bonus features alone are worth the wait." Megadeth have announced the addition of former Black Label Society/White Lion bassist James Lomenzo to the group's ranks. Lomenzo joins the band as the replacement for James MacDonough (ex-Iced Earth), who was officially dismissed from the group on February 10, 2006. "I want to thank Jimmy for everything and wish him the best in his future endeavors," Megadeth mainman Dave Mustaine said in a statement. "He is knowledgeable and a good enough bassist to run his own outfit, and I look forward to what he does musically." Mustaine added, "It was recommended I check out James Lomenzo by a friend, because I was uncertain which direction I wanted to take with the bassist prior to starting the next record, and everything just clicked." Lomenzo will perform with Megadeth at their next scheduled live appearance, which is set for March 16 at the Desert Rock 2006 festival in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. For more information on Lomenzo, visit his official web site. Shadows Fall have completed work on a new 11-song CD, Fallout from the War, featuring some songs that didn't make it onto their breakthrough The Art of War album, some B-sides from Japan releases and a few cover songs. It's slated for release on the Century Media label in May. The brand new release's sessions were again fully produced and mixed by longtime friend Zeuss (Hatebreed, God Forbid) at Planet Z Studios in the band's home state of Massachusetts. Fallout from the War follows the group's most acclaimed disc to date, The War Within, which originally debuted at No. 20 on The Billboard 200 chart and has gone on to sell over 250,000 units in the U.S. alone. Shadows Fall are currently writing material for their first album for Atlantic Records in the U.S. and Roadrunner Records in Europe. This is going to be the biggest record of our career, so we've really got to focus on it," the group's drummer, Jason Bittner, told TimesUnion.com. The band hope to be recording in the studio by May or June. The target date for the album release is February 2007. Danish metaler’s Mercenary are currently in pre-production for their as-yet-untitled fifth full-length album, tentatively due late summer via Century Media Records. "So far 10 songs have been written," the band write on their web site. Mercenary will enter Hansen studios [in Ribe, Denmark] in March to record the album which will be mixed in May, also by Jacob Hansen [Hatesphere, Invocator, Raunchy]." In other news, Mercenary's fourth full-length album, 11 Dreams, will be released in Brazil on March 20 through Overload Records. The CD, which was released in the U.S. in February 2005 via Century Media, was produced by Jacob Hansen and includes a cover version of Kent's hit single "Music Non Stop". Artwork duties were handled by Niklas Sundin (Dark Tranquillity, In Flames, Arch Enemy). 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. Godsmack have set an April 25 release date for their new album, IV. The album's first single, "Speak", will be released to radio on Tuesday, February 14. In a recent interview with MTV.com, Godsmack frontman Sully Erna had the following to say about the follow-up to 2003's Faceless: "It's a killer record, and I'm really curious to see what the public's going to think of it. It's still Godsmack — I don't think it's lost the integrity of what Godsmack has built our career off. The toughness of the sound is still there. But we've expanded a little bit more. After Faceless, we started to spread our wings a bit and reintroduce guitar solos and stuff like that. The acoustic record [2004's 'The Other Side'] was a departure and it was very well received. It opened up a new audience for us — a lot more adults were coming to the shows, bringing their kids and having a glass of wine. That gave us a permission slip to take it to the next level. "It will perk people's eyebrows up again," he added. "The first couple of records were kind of the same record, in a sense. They were sort of bordering that metal sound and then the third record had more rock mixed into it. [The Other Side] really softened up the sound. This one is more rock and roll, and some songs are very epic, in a TOOL [-ish] sense. Some songs are like old-school Godsmack, like 'Bad Religion'. It's going to service the core fans and introduce some new music to those fans. It's also going to recruit a bigger and broader audience, because the songwriting has matured so much." Other song titles expected to appear on the CD include "Livin' in Sin", "Shine Down" (which comes complete with "killer harmonica") and "Voodoo Too". Beyond Fear, the new band featuring former Judas Priest and current Iced Earth frontman Tim "Ripper" Owens, have been confirmed as the opening act for Anthrax on their upcoming European headlining tour. Confirmed dates are as follows: Apr. 08 - Sheffield, UK - Corperation Apr. 09 - Wolverhampton, UK - Wolfrun Hall Apr. 10 - London, UK - Astoria Apr. 11 - Nottingham, UK - Rock City Apr. 12 - Glasgow, UK - ABC Apr. 14 - Tilburg, NETH - 013 Apr. 15 - Antwerp, BEL - Hof Ter Lo Apr. 16 - Strasbourg, FRA - La Laiterie Apr. 17 - Bochum, GER - Matrix Apr. 18 - Copenhagen, DEN - Vega Apr. 19 - Gothenburg, SWE - Tagarn Apr. 21 - Helsinki, FIN - Nosturi Apr. 22 - Tampere, FIN - Pakkahouse Apr. 24 - Hamburg, GER - Markthalle Apr. 25 - Saarbrücken, GER - Garage Apr. 26 - Zürich, SWI - Rostofflager Apr. 27 - Trevisto, ITA - New Age Apr. 28 - Milan, ITA - Live Club Apr. 29 - Reggio Emilia, ITA - Temo Rock As previously reporte, a short audio sample of the track "Scream Machine", taken from Beyond Fear's upcoming self-titled debut album, has been posted online at www.timripperowens.com (audio comes on once the page loads). Beyond Fear is scheduled for release on May 9 (one day earlier internationally) via SPV Records. The CD was recorded at the legendary Morrisound Studios in Tampa, Florida, under the direction of producer Jim Morris. The album consists of fourteen haunting metal numbers, which, according to Owens, "show unmistakably where my musical roots lie: in the classic heavy metal of the Eighties. However, I've transported that traditional metal style into the present, lending it its own touch." London-based "extreme power metal" band Dragonforce have found themselves a new bassist. Stepping up to fill the slot vacated last year by Adrian Lambert, who left the band to spend more time with his family, is Dragonforce's current "touring bassist" Frederic Leclercq. Formerly guitarist with French metal outfit Heavenly, Fred is a longtime friend of Dragonforce guitarist Herman Li. While out on the road with Dragonforce, the band realized that Fred fit into the band perfectly and invited him to join on a permanent basis. Meanwhile, Dragonforce's current album, "Inhuman Ramage", is flying out of the shops and their recent U.K. tour sold out weeks in advance, culminating in a show at London's Astoria Theatre. The follow-up to 2004's Sonic Firestorm, Inhuman Rampage was recorded at Thin Ice Studios in Virginia Water (Surrey) and Li's own studio in West London between April and September 2005, while production duties were shared between Li, fellow axeman Totman and keyboard player Pruzhanov.