METALLICA drummer Lars Ulrich spoke to RollingStone.com about the progress of the songwriting sessions for the band's follow-up to 2008's "Death Magnetic". "We're going through the grind," he said. "We're in there doing riffs and putting them into songs. We don't really write one song and then show up the next day and do another one. We just work on riffs and sections, connecting riffs and tempos and moods."

He continued: "We've been doing this, off and on, for the better part of a year. We're going to do these [European] dates this summer and then really hone down. I'd say that right now, we're in the fourth inning."

According to Lars, the four members of METALLICA plan on getting back together before the beginning of May to resume work on new material. "We're going to start talking about who is going to produce the album," Ulrich said. "We haven't started recording yet. But we are deep into the songwriting part of it."

METALLICA recently completed a South American tour where the band played a nearly all-request set, with 17 songs chosen online by fans prior to each gig and the last slot filled by the new track "Lords Of Summer".

Ulrich told RollingStone.com that "Lords Of Summer" "is fairly representative of where our creative headspace is at right now. It's one of those things that's like, 'Here, we're writing and we're creating.'"

Ulrich cautioned, however, that "Lords Of Summer" may not even end up on METALLICA's next album at all, or at least not in its current form. He explained, "We did the same thing when we went out and played a bunch of dates in 2006. We were writing and played two different new songs over the course of that summer, and none of them made the record (2008's 'Death Magnetic')."

The Metallica By Request tour will hit Europe this summer, with a single North American date confirmed in Montreal, as the band continues working on its 10th studio album.

GUNS N' ROSES guitarist Richard Fortus told the Associated Press at yesterday's (Wednesday, April 23) Revolver Golden Gods awards show in Los Angeles that fans could see new music from the band in the next year.

"We are working on stuff and hopefully very soon we're going to have new stuff out," Fortus said on the event's "black carpet (see video below). "Well, in the next year."

He added: "We're going to be in [Las] Vegas all together [for next month's second residency at the Joint inside Hard Rock Hotel and Casino], so hopefully during that time we're going to be able to get in a room and start laying down some more stuff."

GUNS N' ROSES guitarist Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal told Rolling Stone last year that there is music ready to go for GUNS N' ROSES' follow-up to 2008's "Chinese Democracy". He explained, "There's a lot of stuff, it's just a question of all of us organizing. We're still doing shows, and I think once we clear our schedule and focus more on new music, it'll happen. We just have little things on the back burner, just waiting for the right time for us to organize and make something new out of it. Hopefully we can make more music — that's what it's about." According to The Pulse Of Radio, Thal believes that the group's fans want to hear something new from GUNS too, saying, "They want new music, and we can do it. It's not that we're done. I'm not ready for that. We need to keep making music. We have a great band that's ready to do it and can do it well."

Any chances of a new album, of course, depend on frontman Axl Rose. It took Rose 13 years to finish "Chinese Democracy", burning through hundreds of thousands of dollars, multiple producers, every last remaining original member of the group and a few replacements before he was done.

The finished product got mixed reviews and was a relative flop, moving less than one million copies in the U.S.

But Rose remains an enigma. He has not spoken about making a new album in any of his rare interviews and skipped out on GUNS' induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2012.

Ex-GUNS N' ROSES bassist Duff McKagan performed with the band at yesterday's Revolver Golden Gods event, marking the first time that McKagan has performed with the group on U.S. soil in 20 years.

Axl Rose took home this year's Ronnie James Dio Lifetime Achievement Award, while Joan Jett became the first female recipient of the Golden God Award.

RATT frontman Stephen Pearcy has released the following statement:

"After 30 years creating the band RATT and losing a real brother, Robbin [Crosby, late RATT guitarist], it's time that I personally part ways with the band.

"I am officially done with having anything to do with them due to the constant turmoil, unresolved business, personal attacks/threats in the public forum, and most of all, the disrespect to the fans.

"I'm very content and proud of the legacy and the music I’ve created. This music will live well beyond any of our lifetimes.

"I owe no one anything but a huge heartfelt thank you for coming to the party for the last 30 years.

"With much respect, life goes on and the music I created will continue to be heard for years to come despite the dark clouds that have lingered for far too long.

"I will personally continue to make music and perform live shows."

"See you out there."

RATT recently canceled its appearance on the Monsters Of Rock cruise due to the death of Stephen Pearcy's sister.

RATT drummer Bobby Blotzer was slated to sit out the band's appearance at the Monsters Of Rock cruise because he had not yet fully recovered from the neck surgery he underwent last October. Filling in for him once again was supposed to be Jimmy DeGrasso, who has previously played with Y&T, WHITE LION and MEGADETH, among others.

Blotzer previously missed three RATT shows in January. All three dates were played with DeGrasso behind the kit.

RATT's first studio record in 11 years, "Infestation", sold around 14,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 30 on The Billboard 200 chart. The CD was issued on April 20, 2010 via Loud & Proud.

Former GUNS N' ROSES bassist Duff McKagan performed with the band last night (Wednesday, April 23) at the Revolver Golden Gods awards at Club Nokia in Los Angeles. This marked the first time that McKagan has performed with the group on U.S. soil, following appearances in London, Vancouver and, most recently, five shows in South America.

McKagan joined GUNS 'N ROSES onstage for the first time in 17 years at an October 2010 concert in London. He also performed with the current version of GUNS in December 2011 at shows in Vancouver and Seattle. All three appearances were for a few songs, not full gigs.

Professionally filmed video footage of the "Welcome To The Jungle" and "Paradise City" performances from last night's event can be seen below.

This month's South American shows marked the first time he has played full concerts with the band since his departure in 1994. He stood in for current bassist Tommy Stinson, who was committed to a REPLACEMENTS reunion at Coachella.

VH1 Classic will also air the 2014 Golden Gods awards on Saturday, May 24 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT.

GUNS N' ROSES frontman Axl Rose took home this year's Ronnie James Dio Lifetime Achievement Award, while Joan Jett was the first female recipient of the Golden God Award.

In addition to GUNS N' ROSES and Jett, performers included THE PRETTY RECKLESS, SUICIDE SILENCE, A DAY TO REMEMBER and Zakk Wylde.

Also appearing at the show were members of BLACK SABBATH and LINKIN PARK, Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson, Andrew Dice Clay, Carmen Electra, Tony Hawk, Richie Sambora, Jacoby Shaddix of PAPA ROACH, Alice Cooper, Ace Frehley and others.

The Revolver Golden Gods awards show took place on Wednesday night (April 23) at Club Nokia in Los Angeles, where various rock and metal acts were honored for their talents and achievements and both Axl Rose and Joan Jett were given lifetime contribution awards. According to The Pulse Of Radio, the show opened with a surprise performance from thrash metal veterans SLAYER, while other acts who performed included Jett, GUNS N' ROSES, THE PRETTY RECKLESS, SUICIDE SILENCE and A DAY TO REMEMBER. Ex-GUNS N' ROSES bassist Duff McKagan performed with the band at the event, marking the first time that McKagan has performed with the group on U.S. soil in 20 years.He joined GUNS onstage in London for the first time in 17 years at an October 2010 concert in London, followed more recently by shows in Vancouver and South America.

Axl Rose took home this year's Ronnie James Dio Lifetime Achievement Award, while Joan Jett became the first female recipient of the Golden God Award.

VH1 Classic streamed the show live and will also air an edited version on Saturday, May 24th at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Also appearing at the show were members of BLACK SABBATH and LINKIN PARK, Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson, Jacoby Shaddix of PAPA ROACH, Alice Cooper, Ace Frehley and others.

Revolver Golden Gods list of winners:

* Best Vocalist: Josh Homme of QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE* Best Live Band: Rob Zombie* Most Devoted Fans: AVENGED SEVENFOLD* Best New Talent: TWELVE FOOT NINJA* Comeback Of The Year: DEEP PURPLE* Paul Gray Best Bassist Award: Chris Kael of FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH* Best Film & DVD: PIERCE THE VEIL* Best Drummer: Arin Ilejay of AVENGED SEVENFOLD* Song Of The Year: FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH's "Lift Me Up"* Most Metal Athlete: Josh Barnett, Mixed Martial Arts* Dimebag Darrell Best Guitarist: Synyster Gates and Zacky Vengeance of AVENGED SEVENFOLD* Album Of The Year: BLACK SABBATH's "13"* Golden God Award: Joan Jett* Ronnie James Dio Lifetime Achievement Award: Axl Rose of GUNS N' ROSES

Swedish metallers WOLF will release their seventh studio album, "Devil Seed", on August 25 in Europe and September 2 in North America via Century Media Records. This time around, the band teamed up with Jens Bogren (KREATOR, OPETH) at Fascination Street Studios to deliver not only a heavy-sounding release but also one chock full of clarity and complexity. The cover artwork was once again created by Thomas Holm (MERCYFUL FATE, KING DIAMOND).

Fans will be pleased to hear that WOLF is not only still true to its musical ideal, but delivers a fresh and unique take on the sound that is their unmistakable trademark.

"I haven't been this pleased with the songs on a WOLF album since the release of 'Black Wings'," says founding member Niklas Stalvind. "I really think we have taking our songwriting to the next level on this one and I hope that the metal fans will love it as much as we do."

A short time after the new album's release, WOLF will take to the streets with a tour of the U.K., with further European dates to be announced soon.

The first album teaser will be released in May, so keep your eyes peeled.

WOLF in 2011 parted ways with guitarist Johannes "Axeman" Losbäck and replaced him with Simon Johansson (ABSTRAKT ALGEBRA, BIBLEBLACK, MEMORY GARDEN). Simon previously played with WOLF in 2009 when they supported W.A.S.P. for four shows.

WOLF's sixth album, "Legions Of Bastards", was released in April 2011 via Century Media Records. The follow-up to 2009's "Ravenous" was produced by Pelle Saether at Studio Underground in Vasterås, Sweden. The cover artwork was once again created by Thomas Holm (the man who was responsible for the legendary MERCYFUL FATE "Melissa" and "Don't Break The Oath" covers).

Max Cavalera (SOULFLY, CAVALERA CONSPIRACY, SEPULTURA, KILLER BE KILLED) joined SUICIDE SILENCE on stage last night (Wednesday, April 23) at the Revolver Golden Gods awards show at Club Nokia in Los Angeles to perform the SEPULTURA classic "Roots Bloody Roots". Professionally filmed video footage of his appearance can be seen below.

SUICIDE SILENCE will release "You Can't Stop Me", their first album to feature new vocalist Hernan "Eddie" Hermida (ex-ALL SHALL PERISH) and their first since the tragic loss of singer Mitch Lucker, on July 11 in Europe (except in the U.K., where it will arrive on July 14) and July 15 in North America via Nuclear Blast Entertainment.

"You Can't Stop Me" was produced and mixed by Steve Evetts (SEPULTURA, THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN), who worked with the band not only on "The Black Crown", but also on some instrumental demos for the new CD just prior to Lucker's death in the fall of 2012.

SOULFY's ninth album, "Savages", was released on October 1, 2013 via SOULFLY's new label home, Nuclear Blast Entertainment. The CD was produced by Terry Date, who is known for his work with such acts as PANTERA, DEFTONES and SOUNDGARDEN, among many others. Guest vocal appearances on "Savages" include SOULFLY bass player Tony Campos, CLUTCH's Neil Fallon, NAPALM DEATH's Mitch Harris, Jamie Hanks of I DECLARE WAR and SOULFLY mainman Max Cavalera's son Igor Cavalera (of LODY KONG).

JON OLIVA'S PAIN, the Florida-based band led by SAVATAGE mastermind Jon Oliva, has recruited Bill Hudson (CIRCLE II CIRCLE, CELLADOR, POWER QUEST, NIGHTRAGE) as its new guitarist.

Says JON OLIVA'S PAIN drummer Christopher Kinder: "Bill is a world-class guitar player and truly a welcome addition to the JON OLIVA'S PAIN lineup."

JON OLIVA'S PAIN's fourth album, "Festival", was released in North America on April 12, 2010. The CD, which was issued in Europe on February 19, 2010 via AFM Records, entered the German Media Control chart at position No. 87.

JON OLIVA'S PAIN's third album, "Global Warning", came out in the U.S. in May 2008 via Locomotive Records. The CD featured a guest appearance by guitarist Ralph Santolla (OBITUARY, DEICIDE, DEATH, ICED EARTH) on two songs: "Adding The Cost" and "You'll Never Know".

FOZZY, the band featuring WWE wrestling superstar Chris Jericho alongside members of STUCK MOJO, will release a new single, "Lights Go Out", on April 29 across all digital platforms. The release will coincide with the track's impact at Active Rock radio, and will be the first single from the band's upcoming sixth studio album, set to hit stores this summer.

The official lyric video for "Lights Go Out" can be seen below.

"'Lights Go Out' represents a brand new color in the FOZZY spectrum," says Chris Jericho of the new single. "Dark, sexy, sleek, dirty, heavy and catchy as f*ck, this song turns a whole new page in hard rock history. It doesn't matter if you dance to it in a club or mosh to it in a pit, 'Lights Go Out' will make you move!"

The band return to the North American tour circuit in late April, where they will be making crowds move on America's biggest festivals, including appearances alongside AVENGED SEVENFOLD, VOLBEAT, ROB ZOMBIE, SLAYER and more at 98 Rockfest, Welcome To Rockville, Carolina Rebellion and Rock On The Range. FOZZY will also be playing dates between festivals in support of BUCKCHERRY, co-headlining with KYNG, and sharing their stage with GEMINI SYNDROME, REV THEORY, HEAVEN'S BASEMENT and Century Media Records labelmates EYES SET TO KILL.

Also recently annouced is the October 13, 2014 release of "The Best In The World: At What I Have No Idea", Chris Jericho's third autobiography and the sequel to his New York Times bestsellers "A Lion's Tale" and "Undisputed".

Still can't get enough Jericho? Check out the "Talk Is Jericho" podcast, which features the multi-faceted superstar interviewing guests from the all over the world of pop-culture and entertainment twice weekly, every Wednesday and Friday. The podcast has already reached No. 1 in seven countries and is one of the marquee programs on the PodcastOne network, featuring guests as diverse as comedian and TV host Howie Mandel, ghosthunter Jeff Belanger, professional athletes and wrestling superstars, and fellow musicians such as Dave Mustaine, M. Shadows and Ace Frehley.

FOZZY's latest album, "Sin And Bones", sold around 3,400 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 143 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.

Fan-filmed video footage of REVAMP — the Dutch band led by former AFTER FOREVER frontwoman and current NIGHTWISH singer Floor Jansen — performing on April 7 in Minneapolis, Minnesota as the support act for ICED EARTH and SABATON can be seen below.

REVAMP's second album, "Wild Card", was released in Europe on August 23, 2013 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD was recorded at SandLane Studio in Rijen, The Netherlands with Joost van den Broek (ex-AFTER FOREVER) and features guest choir parts by Marcela Bovio (STREAM OF PASSION) and Daniël de Jongh (TEXTURES).

"Wild Card" track listing:

01. The Anatomy Of A Nervous Breakdown: On The Sideline02. The Anatomy Of A Nervous Breakdown: The Limbic System03. Wild Card04. Precibus05. Nothing06. The Anatomy Of A Nervous Breakdown: Neurasthenia07. Distorted Lullabies08. Amendatory09. I Can Become10. Misery's No Crime11. Wolf and Dog12. Sins (bonus track)

The CD features additional guest appearances by Mark Jansen (EPICA), Johan van Stratum (STREAM OF PASSION) and Devin Townsend.

Jansen told About.com Heavy Metal about the songwriting process for "Wild Card": "When AFTER FOREVER stopped, I didn't want to first find a band, then see if I could write with them, figure that whole thing out, then record an album. Instead I worked with people I knew would be good songwriters out of an idea how I thought it would sound like. So I worked with a German guitar player (Waldemar Sorychta) and Joost van den Broek from AFTER FOREVER. We wrote the album and played on it and hired a drummer. That's basically how it was done. Then I formed a band with the current lineup. The ambition was to continue as a band and start writing. The cool thing is that it worked. Mainly the guitarist Jord (Otto), keyboardist Ruben (Wijga) and myself came up with all the ideas. Joost became the supervisor of the whole songwriting process and producer of the album."

REVAMP last year announced the addition of bassist Henk Vonk to the group's ranks. He replaced Jaap Melman, who left REVAMP before the band entered the studio to begin recording its second album. The CD was eventually completed with the help of STREAM OF PASSION bassist Johan van Stratum, who filled in on short notice and "did an amazing job to record and edit the bass parts," according to a press release.

REVAMP's self-titled debut album was released in Europe on May 28, 2010 via Nuclear Blast Records.

"Sacrificium", the sixth album from German symphonic metallers XANDRIA, will be released on May 6 (one day earlier internationally) via Napalm Records. According to the band, the follow-up to 2012's "Neverworld's End" will "continue the musical journey and direction" of the last CD but "will bring in even more of everything people liked" about "Neverworld's End".

"Sacrificium" track listing:

01. Temple Of Hate02. Stardust03. Dreamkeeper04. Nightfall05. Sacrificium06. Our Neverworld07. Little Red Relish08. Come With Me09. Until The End10. Betrayer11. Sweet Atonement12. The Undiscovered Land

The official video for the song "Nightfall" can be seen below.

XANDRIA last fall parted ways with their singer of three years, Manuela Kraller. Her replacement is the "astonishing 28-year-old Dutch talent" Dianne Van Giersbergen, who also fronts the progressive metal outfit EX LIBRIS.

Said Manuela in a statement: "After three years with the boys in XANDRIA, I decided to follow a different path and go my own musical way."

The sympathethic Bavarian singer left with regret but also full of gratitude, thanking band and fans for the time they had together and being grateful for the "wonderful moments in mutual tours and shows." Manuela also wished Dianne and band "all the very best for the future!"

Dianne Van Giersbergen made her live debut with XANDRIA at the end of November 2013 on a Spanish tour.

Fans had a last chance to see Kraller singing with XANDRIA in October 2013 in Leipzig, Germany and Pratteln, Switzerland, where she performed at the Masters Of Symphonic Metal festival at Z7.

Fan-filmed video footage of RED DRAGON CARTEL's entire performance on the Monsters Of Rock cruise, which sailed from Miami, Florida on March 29, can be seen below.

RED DRAGON CARTEL is the band led by former OZZY OSBOURNE and BADLANDS guitarist Jake E. Lee.

RED DRAGON CARTEL's self-titled debut album sold around 5,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 69 on The Billboard 200 chart. Released on January 28 via Frontiers Records, the CD was recorded at Las Vegas' The Hideout Recording Studio — owned and operated by Kevin Churko (OZZY OSBOURNE, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, IN THIS MOMENT) — and was produced by R. Bernard Mann (a.k.a. Ronnie Mancuso) and Jake E. Lee, and executive-produced, mixed and mastered by Churko.

RED DRAGON CARTEL, which references the axeman's Japanese roots, also features Darren James "D.J." Smith of Canadian metallers WARMACHINE, on vocals, Ronnie Mancuso (BEGGARS & THIEVES) on bass and Jonas Fairley (BLACK BETTY) on drums.

Jake E. Lee is best known for his work in BADLANDS and as guitarist for OZZY OSBOURNE on "Bark At The Moon" and "The Ultimate Sin" albums.

"Red Dragon Cartel" also features various guest appearances from some of rock's most notable faces, including legendary CHEAP TRICK vocalist Robin Zander, former IRON MAIDEN singer Paul Di'Anno, KILL DEVIL HILL/ex-PANTERA bassist Rex Brown, Sass Jordan, Todd Kerns and Brent Fitz (SLASH) and IN THIS MOMENT frontwoman Maria Brink.

JAKE E. LEE'S RED DRAGON CARTEL's setlist includes new material like the singles "Feeder" and "Deceived", as well as major hits from Jake E. Lee's glorious past: "Bark At The Moon", "The Ultimate Sin" and "Rock 'N' Roll Rebel" (all originally recorded by OZZY OSBOURNE), as well as "Shine On" and "High Wire" (BADLANDS).

Legendary thrashers SLAYER debuted a brand new track, "Implode", during their surprise three-song opening set last night (Wednesday, April 23) at the Revolver Golden Gods awards show at Club Nokia in Los Angeles, California. The tune, which was recently laid down in the studio with producer Terry Date (PANTERA, DEFTONES), was preceded by "South Of Heaven" and "War Ensemble".

The studio version of "Implode" has now been released and can be streamed in the YouTube clip below.

"Implode" is expected to appear on SLAYER's next studio album, tentatively due later in the year via an as-yet-undetermined record label following the expiration of the band's long-term deal with Rick Rubin's American Recordings.

Recorded earlier this month at Henson Studios in Los Angeles and produced by Terry Date and co-produced by Greg Fidelman, “Implode” is now available as a free download as a “thank you” to the band’s fans for their continued support. Or, as Kerry King put it, “you have been waiting for us, now we are delivering for you.” Registered members of Slayer’s fan club were sent an email right around midnight giving them the link to the song and a chance to hear it before it was made public. “Implode” can now be downloaded at http://www.slayer.net .

Later this year, the two-time Grammy-winning Slayer will begin recording a new album, tentatively set for an early 2015 release date. The album will make Slayer history as it will be released on Nuclear Blast Records through the band’s own label imprint, closing out a 28-year relationship with Rick Rubin and American Recordings. No name for the imprint has been decided on yet.

“Rick has played a huge role in our career, we’ve made some great albums with him,” said Slayer’s Tom Araya. "But today is a new day, record companies don’t play the kind of role they once did, and we really like the idea of going out on our own, connecting directly with our fans, and Nuclear Blast is fired up about taking on that challenge with us."

All future recordings on the band's label imprint will be released worldwide exclusively through Nuclear Blast.

“I was a teenage rebel when 'Show No Mercy' came out,” said Markus Staiger, owner of Nuclear Blast, "and I identified with that record. It was the most extreme, aggressive thing at the time. They were then and still are the most brutal metal band on the planet! I really cannot express how proud I am that we are able to work with Slayer to join the Nuclear Blast family. We are ready for that next record and, I’m sure it will go into metal history!”

Added Nuclear Blast label manager Gerardo Martinez, "The prospect of helping Slayer take a leading role in the creative process surrounding their releases, projects and other cross-promotional opportunities is the ultimate honor for me, a metalhead who grew up in Los Angeles listening to Slayer. Nowhere in my wildest dreams would I have imagined that Nuclear Blast would be making history alongside one of the best bands in metal.”

Slayer - Tom Araya/vocals, bass, Kerry King/guitar, drummer Paul Bostaph, and Gary Holt who continues to stand in for the band’s founding guitarist Jeff Hanneman - will spend the next few months on the road touring major North American and European festivals as well as headlining dates, sharing the stages with Metallica, Iron Maiden and more (see below), but is expected to be back in the studio in the fall to record the rest of the new album.

Swedish melodic death quintet DARKANE has posted live footage from its recent European tour with SOILWORK. You can watch as the band performs the track "Ostracized" from its 2013 release, "The Sinister Supremacy", filmed by Philipp Koch and Oliver Laux (Drumtalk) at the Biblelot in Dordrecht, Netherlands.

Says the band: "We recently completed a European tour with SOILWORK that took us through Spain, Italy, France, Luxembourg, Holland and the U.K. The tour went great and, with the two bands having previously toured together, everything went smoothly — apart from SOILWORK's drummer Dirk Verbeuren getting injured and having to sit out a few shows. Luckily, our drummer, Peter Wildoer, isn't one to back down from a challenge, so he took over the drum throne for SOILWORK's remaining gigs. Closing in on the end of the tour, Dirk felt good enough to play again, so he played the final show of the tour in Dordrecht. Spirits were high, and to make it even better, Phillip from Drumtalk showed up and asked if we wanted him to film the show. Of course we did! And he did a really nice job. DARKANE 100% live and raw. As it should be."

"The Sinister Supremacy" was released in June 2013 via Massacre and Prosthetic.

Regarding the album's title, the band said: "'The Sinister Supremacy' is a metaphor for the evil that controls us. It's the dark part of our minds and it’s inside us all. It tells us it's OK to do bad things, to hurt other people, and hurt ourselves. It guides us into making choices based on pure selfishness, and it thrives on complete chaos.

"The cover art by Carlos Holmberg is a Rorschach test as seen by an individual who has completely succumbed to the sinister supremacy."

Vocalist Jens Broman left DARKANE in August 2011 due to "personal issues." He explained in a statement, "At the moment my life is in a phase where I'm unable to find inspiration for new adventures with DARKANE and therefore it's best for me to pass on the mic."

Mackrory sang on DARKANE's debut album, "Rusted Angel" (1999), and made a guest appearance on the song "Chaos vs. Order" on the band's 2002 effort "Expanding Senses".

"The Beauty Of Destruction", the debut album from DEVIL YOU KNOW, the creative union of Howard Jones (ex-KILLSWITCH ENGAGE), Francesco Artusato (ALL SHALL PERISH) and John Sankey (DEVOLVED), can be streamed in its entirety using the SoundCloud widget below. The effort will be released on both physical and digital formats on April 25 in Europe and April 29 in North America via Nuclear Blast Entertainment.

"The Beauty Of Destruction" was produced by Logan Mader (FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, GOJIRA, DEVILDRIVER, SOULFLY) and mixed by Chris "Zeuss" Harris (HATEBREED, SOULFLY). Artwork for the album was created by noted painter and illustrator Travis Smith (OPETH, DEVIN TOWNSEND).

"When Travis Smith presented us with the initial sketches we were blown away,” commented Jones. “He captured the concept of the album perfectly. It’s hugely different than anything that’s out there and will be immediately recognizable as DEVIL YOU KNOW."

"The Beauty Of Destruction" track listing:

01. A New Beginning02. My Own03. Embracing The Torture04. For The Dead And Broken05. Seven Years Alone06. It's Over07. A Mind Insane08. Crawl From The Dark09. The Killer10. I Am The Nothing11. Shut It Down12. As Bright As The Darkness13. Sacrifice (bonus track - vinyl LP only)

As previously reported, DEVIL YOU KNOW will support BLACK LABEL SOCIETY on this year's Revolver Golden Gods Tour, which will kick off on April 16 in Portland and wrap up on June 7 in Los Angeles. Also appearing on the bill is DOWN.

DEVIL YOU KNOW's touring lineup is completed by guitarist Roy Lev-Ari and BLEEDING THROUGH bassist Ryan Wombacher.

DEVIL YOU KNOW made its live debut on February 15 at Chain Reaction in Anaheim, California. The group also took part in the 2014 edition of Australia's Soundwave Festival.

DEVIL YOU KNOW was born out of Artusato and Sankey's creative quest to stretch beyond their extreme metal backgrounds. The two had written over a dozen songs before even attempting to lock down a singer. "We were unsure if Howard would be interested," said Sankey." Yet, when KILLSWITCH ENGAGE's former frontman received the material, a creative ideal began to solidify.

Finally connecting in Los Angeles during the last months of 2012, a highly distinctive sound began to become apparent. "It turned from bare-bones musical ideas into something that surpassed any of our expectations," said Jones. "It went from something we thought was going to be a fun, heavy project into something very real." It was during a recording session at the start of 2013 with producer and former MACHINE HEAD and SOULFLY guitarist Logan Mader that DEVIL YOU KNOW's ideas began to alchemize into something none of the bands members would ever expect. "It became a departure from what I'm known for," said Artusato. "I wasn't focusing on technical guitar parts (even though I still love that aspect of writing) but simply on writing what felt best for each individual song."

The writing and recording process for DEVIL YOU KNOW's debut album "was surprisingly easy," stated Artusato. "When we get together it just works." The band is also quick to sum up the studio vibe with producer Mader as "intensely creative," said Sankey. "Logan definitely helped us realize and define the DEVIL YOU KNOW sound." Jones agreed: "He went from producer, to unsung member, to friend."

"It's a different style of music for me," said Jones of DEVIL YOU KNOW's unique sound. "It's heavy as anything any of us are known for but I get to do some different things people won't expect. I've been singing almost all my life. Being around good songwriters and musicians in my former bands really helped mold me into who I am now."

"The Beauty Of Destruction" audio stream:

"Never Surrender", a brand new song from Kentucky rockers BLACK STONE CHERRY, can be streamed below. The track is taken from BLACK STONE CHERRY's fourth album, "Magic Mountain", which will be released on May 6 (one day earlier internationally) via Roadrunner Records.

"Magic Mountain" track listing:

01. Holding On…To Letting Go02. Peace Pipe03. Bad Luck & Hard Love04. Me And Mary Jane05. Runaway06. Magic Mountain07. Never Surrender08. Blow My Mind09. Sometimes10. Fiesta Del Fuego11. Dance Girl12. Hollywood in Kentucky13. Remember Me

Commenting on the making of the Joe Barresi-produced "Magic Mountain", BLACK STONE CHERRY said: "Not since before our first album have we felt the freedom and confidence that we felt while writing and recording this album.

"After touring the world behind three previous albums that we are extremely proud of, we feel this album best captures the live energy, honesty and vibe that encompasses our true musicianship."

The "Me And Mary Jane" video can be seen below. The clip was directed by Mason Dixon in Nashville, Tennessee.

"We wanted to make a cool, interesting, and dangerous video… all the while keeping it sexy and rock 'n' roll," BLACK STONE CHERRY frontman Chris Robertson tells Billboard.com.

The clip has "a ton of vibe and we're sure people will want to watch it over and over again," adds Robertson. "I mean, if you're gonna do a video in today's world, why not go for it."

BLACK STONE CHERRY's previous albums, 2008's "Folklore And Superstition" and 2011's "Between The Devil & The Deep Blue Sea", both topped the U.K. Rock Albums chart on their release and have since racked up silver sales certification status from the BPI (British Phonographic Industry).

BLACK STONE CHERRY is:

Chris Robertson - Vocals/GuitarBen Wells - Guitar/VocalsJon Lawhon - Bass/VocalsJohn Fred Young - Drums/Vocals

MUSHROOMHEAD, the influential industrial metal band from Cleveland, Ohio, will release its eighth studio album, "The Righteous & The Butterfly", on May 13 via Megaforce Records. Recorded in Cleveland, the band produced the record with longtime co-producer Bill Korecky. The CD consists of 14 tracks, ranging from songs about survival and balance ("Devils Be Damned", "Qwerty", "Son Of 7") to emotionally charged anthems ("For Your Pleasure", "Worlds Collide") to a riff-heavy rendition of Adele's No. 1 hit "Rumor Has It".

The song "Qwerty" can now be streamed in the YouTube clip below.

MUSHROOMHEAD is comprised of drummers Skinny, Robert Diablo and Stitch; vocalists J Mann, Jeffery Nothing and Waylon; guitarist Church; keyboardist Schmotz; and bassist Dr. F.

The album's title, "The Righteous & The Butterfly", is a dedication to original guitarist J.J. Righteous and the band's former photographer (and drummer Steve "Skinny" Felton's wife) Vanessa Solowiow, who both passed away too soon.

"J.J. was a key member of our band," says Skinny. "He played on the first three records and Vanessa was our photographer and the mother of my children. They were both huge pieces of MUSHROOMHEAD and this record is dedicated to them."

"The Righteous & The Butterfly" marks the return of vocalist J Mann and the debut of new guitarist Church and bassist Dr. F.

"This album damn near wrote itself," proclaims Skinny. "With J Mann's return, this album is a fresh twist on a familiar vibe. It's also the first album with Church and Dr. F. They brought in fresh blood while keeping the integrity of the band's sound and vision intact.

"This is the 20th year of MUSHROOMHEAD and this album is us getting back to our roots."

"The Righteous & The Butterfly" track listing:

01. Our Apologies02. How Many Times03. Devils Be Damned04. Qwerty05. Portraits Of The Poor06. Childlike07. This Cold Reign 08. We Are The Truth09. Son Of 710. For Your Pleasure11. Worlds Collide12. Graveyard Du Jour13. Out Of My Mind14. Rumor Has It

MUSHROOMHEAD will be touring extensively in 2014 to support the effort.

Former NIGHTWISH singer Tarja Turunen and acclaimed drummer Mike Terrana (TARJA, AXEL RUDI PELL, RAGE, YNGWIE J. MALMSTEEN, MASTERPLAN) will release the classic-rock crossover live project "Beauty & The Beat" on May 30 via earMUSIC. The effort includes interpretations of classic music pieces ranging from Bach to Mozart to Rossini as well as rock classics from QUEEN, LED ZEPPELIN and Turunen.

The first teaser clip for "Beauty & The Beat" can be seen below.

"Beauty & The Beat" is something very different from your ordinary rock show, let alone your ordinary classic concert. It's music played in an unorthodox manner; it's the performance of a wide range of classical pieces and rock songs together with an orchestra and choir.

Originally planned as a one-time event — the first performance was already held in 2011 — the show was too successful with fans and critics to simply never happen again. In spring 2013, Turunen and Terrana again toured throughout the world, from Poland to Russia to Mexico.

The music of "Beauty & The Beat" ranges from immortal classic pieces by Bach, Strauss and Mozart to Rossini, but doesn’t neglect pure rock music like songs from LED ZEPPELIN, QUEEN as well as Tarja's own pieces. All combined with orchestra and choir with more than 100 musicians on stage, an enormous sound, energetic drums and Tarja's angelic voice Tarja and Mike complement each other musically. Whereas Mike bangs his drums with rock attitude, Tarja shines with her crystal clear voice and incredible stage presence; all lulled with the warm, full sound of an orchestra.

Turunen explains: "The idea of having a symphonic orchestra, choir and Mr. Terrana on drums was originally mine.

"Mike has done a recording with drums over classical pieces that I think it is great. I immediately imagined it performed live on a stage with a real orchestra as a part of a bigger concept.

"I believe this kind of combination of instruments, particularly playing mainly classical music, is very unique.

"I have been making collaborations with orchestras before and I could foresee a great outcome.

"Our main goal with these kind of concerts is that the younger audience experiences the beauty and power of a symphonic orchestra and choir. Hopefully it will serve as an introduction to classical music for some of our fans."

Terrana jokingly adds: "It's obvious that I provide the beat and Tarja provides the beauty."

CD track listing:

CD1

* Mike - Concert For Violin & Oboe (Bach)* Tarja - Blute Nur (Bach)* Tarja - Zueignung - Op. 10, No. 1 (Strauss)* Mike - Barber of Seville (Rossini)* Mike - New World Symphony (Dvorák)* Tarja - Song To The Moon (Dvorák)* Tarja - Vilja Lied (Lehár)* Tarja - O mio babbino caro (Puccini)* Mike - Can-can (Offenbach)* Tarja - I Feel Pretty (Leonard Bernstein)* Mike - William Tell Overture (Rossini)* Tarja - Mein Herr Marquis (Strauss)* Mike - Eine kleine Nachtmusik (Mozart)

CD2

* Tarja - You Take My Breath Away (Queen)* Tarja & Mike - The Reign (Tarja)* Tarja & Mike - Witch-hunt (Tarja)* Tarja & Mike - Led Zeppelin Medley* Tarja & Mike - Swanheart (Nightwish)* Mike & Tarja - Fly Me To The Moon (Frank Sinatra)* Tarja & Mike - Into The Sun (Tarja)* Tarja & Mike - I Walk Alone (Tarja)

DVD/Blu-ray track listing:

First Part

* Orchestra - Carmen Overture* Mike - Concert For Violin & Oboe (Bach)* Tarja - Blute Nur (Bach)* Tarja - Zueignung - Op. 10, No. 1 (Strauss)* Mike - Barber of Seville (Rossini)* Mike - New World Symphony (Dvorák)* Tarja - Song To The Moon (Dvorák)* Tarja - Vilja Lied (Lehár)* Tarja - O mio babbino caro (Puccini)* Tarja & Mike - The Reign (Tarja)

Second Part

* Tarja - You Take My Breath Away (Queen)* Tarja & Mike - Witch-hunt (Tarja)* Tarja & Mike - Led Zeppelin Medley* Tarja & Mike – Swanheart (Nightwish)* Mike - Can-can (Offenbach)* Tarja - Mein Herr Marquis (Strauss)* Mike & Tarja - Fly Me To The Moon (Frank Sinatra)* Tarja & Mike - Into The Sun (Tarja)

Encore

* Mike - William Tell Overture (Rossini)* Tarja - I Feel Pretty (Leonard Bernstein)* Mike - Eine kleine Nachtmusik (Mozart)* Tarja & Mike - I Walk Alone (Tarja)

* Bonus material* Photo Gallery

For more information, visit tarja-beautyandthebeat.com.

The Pulse Of Radio reports that Ozzy Osbourne topped a list of singers who have been voted the most difficult to understand, according to a new survey conducted by U.K. video-on-demand service Blinkbox. Along with Ozzy, other artists whose lyrics and vocals are hard to decipher include Lady Gaga, ABBA, QUEEN, BON JOVI and Jimi Hendrix.

According to the survey's findings, "many Brits believed the line in Gaga's 'Poker Face' was 'Polk her face,' while Ozzy's lyric 'Going off the rails on a crazy train' was misheard as 'Going off the rails on a gravy train.'"

Many members of the public could not understand Ozzy's speaking voice in the MTV reality series The Osbournes" — although Ozzy says now that he was heavily medicated during the making of that show.

The top 10 misheard song lyrics, according to Blinkbox, came from ABBA's "Dancing Queen", QUEEN's "We Will Rock You", BON JOVI's "Living On A Prayer" and Jimi Hendrix's "Purple Haze", among others.

A phone app was created in 2011 to help people understand the infamous Brummie accent (a colloquial term for the inhabitants, accent and dialect of Birmingham, England), which Ozzy Osbourne is notorious for having.

The iBrummie app translates sayings from the famous second city twang into the Queen's English and says them out loud.

In a 2003 episode of "The Osbournes", the vocalist famously had problems with his then-new car, as the voice recognition system couldn't understand a word he said.

According to The Pulse Of Radio, NIRVANA members Dave Grohl and Krist Novoselic have spoken with Rolling Stone about the band's performances during and after their Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame induction last Thursday (April 10), which featured a series of mostly female singers standing in for late frontman Kurt Cobain. Grohl revealed,

"We didn't even start talking about playing until about eight weeks ago. It just seemed practically impossible. It was hard to imagine jumping onstage and playing those songs. It takes a little bit of musical preparation, and a lot of emotional preparation."

Although they reached out to a number of singers, Joan Jett was the first to sign on. Grohl said, "She took it on like it was her calling . . . She learned every song on 'Nevermind'. She's everything that NIRVANA stood for. She's a powerful, rebellious, musical force of nature. We couldn't think of anyone better to join us."

Once Jett was involved, the other members realized that the singers at the induction had to be "all women," with Grohl explaining, "It also added a whole other dimension to the show. It added substance and depth, so it didn't turn into a eulogy. It was more about the future."

In addition to Jett, the band was joined by SONIC YOUTH's Kim Gordon, St. Vincent and Lorde, with Grohl saying that each woman represented a different era of rock.

The biggest surprise of the night, however, was Grohl's onstage embrace with Cobain's widow, Courtney Love, with whom he has had a longstanding feud.

Grohl said about the moment, "We're family, no matter what. And we all love each other, no matter what. It's a lot bigger than a paragraph or a picture. It's real. So it was a reunion, and we were there for Kurt. It was a beautiful night. It was good."

The induction was followed by a 19-song show at a tiny bar in Brooklyn, featuring Jett, St. Vincent, Gordon, DEER TICK's John McCauley and DINOSAUR JR.'s J. Mascis.

That show was filmed and Grohl has that footage, but it's not clear whether it will be made public any time soon.

As for any future NIRVANA reunions, Novoselic said, "You never say never now. We did it. I sure won't say no. Maybe we can even do some new music one day." Grohl responded, "We haven't even talked about it. We looked at that evening as a night that may never happen again. That's what made it so powerful and beautiful and meaningful."

California deathcore masters SUICIDE SILENCE will release "You Can't Stop Me", their first album to feature new vocalist Hernan "Eddie" Hermida (ex-ALL SHALL PERISH) and their first since the tragic loss of singer Mitch Lucker, on July 11 in Europe (except in the U.K., where it will arrive on July 14) and July 15 in North America via Nuclear Blast Entertainment.

"You Can't Stop Me" was produced and mixed by Steve Evetts (SEPULTURA, THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN), who worked with the band not only on "The Black Crown", but also on some instrumental demos for the new CD just prior to Lucker's death in the fall of 2012.

"The long and short of it is this," says guitarist Mark Heylmun. "Mitch left behind a set of lyrics with the title 'You Can't Stop Me'. This gave us chills, to say the least, and we knew we had the title and title track. This filled us with inspiration for writing sessions to empower us and empower you, the supporters of SUICIDE SILENCE.

"We as a band (and Steve Evetts) worked tirelessly on this record and I'm not gonna say we can't wait for you to hear it. I'm gonna tell you that you have to hear it. You have to sit and listen from start to finish.

"I'm not gonna tell you this is our best record we've ever done. I'm gonna tell you this is the record we care more about than any record we've ever done. This is a record that we fought, bled, sweated, and fucking cried over.

"Go pick up a copy and turn this sucker up to eleven.

"We couldn't be more excited.

"Thank you all for supporting SUICIDE SILENCE."

Mitch Lucker died November 1, 2012 after sustaining injuries in a motorcycle crash in Huntington Beach on Halloween night.

"We never talked about continuing and we never talked about quitting, so it was like an unspoken thing, 'cause with some people, a tragic happening, the last thing you want to do is talk about it," SUICIDE SILENCE guitarist Chris Garza told Music Feeds.

Ultimately, Garza explained, carrying on as SUICIDE SILENCE felt like the right thing to do. "I think keeping the SUICIDE SILENCE brand going and the name going keeps Mitch alive and I think it would be completely disrespectful to Mitch and everything that he worked for if we stopped going or changed the name," he added.

Regarding the direction of the new material, Heylmun told U.K.'s Metal Hammer magazine: "Eddie is quite a versatile vocalist and he's willing to experiment, so we're definitely exploring the horizons, but don't expect anything less than pure brutality throughout."

Randy Blythe (LAMB OF GOD), Robb Flynn (MACHINE HEAD) and Max Cavalera (SOULFLY, CAVALERA CONSPIRACY, SEPULTURA) were among the "surprise" guests who performed with with the surviving members of SUICIDE SILENCE at a special show on December 21, 2012 at the Fox theater in Pomona, California as a tribute Mitch Lucker. All proceeds from the event went towards the education of Mitch's six-year-old daughter, Kenadee Lucker.

The Pomona concert was professionally filmed for a DVD, "Suicide Silence - Ending Is The Beginning: The Mitch Lucker Memorial Show", that was released on February 18 in North America and was made available March 17 in Europe as a CD/DVD digipack and CD/Blu-ray combo pack.

SUICIDE SILENCE 2014 is:

Hernan "Eddie" Hermida - VocalsChris Garza - GuitarMark Heylmun - GuitarAlex Lopez - DrumsDan Kenny - Bass

Canadian vocalist/guitarist/producer DEVIN TOWNSEND has offered some more information on the crowd funding campaign for his new project, CASUALTIES OF COOL, which was due to run for three months, surpassed its goal in under 12 hours, and continues to earn money. Townsend has stated previously that the additional funds will be dedicated to his next Ziltoid record, Z2:
"The pledge is still going strong at 455% with 31 days to go! Remember, you aren't only funding the Casualties of Cool album, but the huge Z2 project as well! Plus, a percentage is also going to aid animal shelters, so every little bit will be put to good use! There are still some great exclusives left, so check it out!"

The Casualties of Cool Pledge campaign can be found here.

Townsend's web team recently checked in with the following update:

"Due to very popular demand (and because Devin thinks he can actually do loads of them) the 'Birthday Song' pledge has been made available again. No limit set on it but we'll cut it off as soon as we'll get a nervous breakdown from thinking about how to deliver so many files to all who pledged. Once you've pledged you can also see an exclusive video update of Devin singing one as an example. Enjoy!"

Check out a preview here.

Former NIGHTWISH singer Tarja Turunen and acclaimed drummer Mike Terrana (TARJA, AXEL RUDI PELL, RAGE, YNGWIE J. MALMSTEEN, MASTERPLAN) will release the classic-rock crossover live project "Beauty & The Beat" on May 30 via earMUSIC. The effort includes interpretations of classic music pieces ranging from Bach to Mozart to Rossini as well as rock classics from QUEEN, LED ZEPPELIN and Turunen.

"Beauty & The Beat" is something very different from your ordinary rock show, let alone your ordinary classic concert. It's music played in an unorthodox manner; it's the performance of a wide range of classical pieces and rock songs together with an orchestra and choir.

Originally planned as a one-time event — the first performance was already held in 2011 — the show was too successful with fans and critics to simply never happen again. In spring 2013, Turunen and Terrana again toured throughout the world, from Poland to Russia to Mexico.

The music of "Beauty & The Beat" ranges from immortal classic pieces by Bach, Strauss and Mozart to Rossini, but doesn’t neglect pure rock music like songs from LED ZEPPELIN, QUEEN as well as Tarja's own pieces. All combined with orchestra and choir with more than 100 musicians on stage, an enormous sound, energetic drums and Tarja's angelic voice Tarja and Mike complement each other musically. Whereas Mike bangs his drums with rock attitude, Tarja shines with her crystal clear voice and incredible stage presence; all lulled with the warm, full sound of an orchestra.

Turunen explains: "The idea of having a symphonic orchestra, choir and Mr. Terrana on drums was originally mine.

"Mike has done a recording with drums over classical pieces that I think it is great. I immediately imagined it performed live on a stage with a real orchestra as a part of a bigger concept.

"I believe this kind of combination of instruments, particularly playing mainly classical music, is very unique.

"I have been making collaborations with orchestras before and I could foresee a great outcome.

"Our main goal with these kind of concerts is that the younger audience experiences the beauty and power of a symphonic orchestra and choir. Hopefully it will serve as an introduction to classical music for some of our fans."

Terrana jokingly adds: "It's obvious that I provide the beat and Tarja provides the beauty."

CD track listing:

CD1

* Mike - Concert For Violin & Oboe (Bach)* Tarja - Blute Nur (Bach)* Tarja - Zueignung - Op. 10, No. 1 (Strauss)* Mike - Barber of Seville (Rossini)* Mike - New World Symphony (Dvorák)* Tarja - Song To The Moon (Dvorák)* Tarja - Vilja Lied (Lehár)* Tarja - O mio babbino caro (Puccini)* Mike - Can-can (Offenbach)* Tarja - I Feel Pretty (Leonard Bernstein)* Mike - William Tell Overture (Rossini)* Tarja - Mein Herr Marquis (Strauss)* Mike - Eine kleine Nachtmusik (Mozart)

CD2

* Tarja - You Take My Breath Away (Queen)* Tarja & Mike - The Reign (Tarja)* Tarja & Mike - Witch-hunt (Tarja)* Tarja & Mike - Led Zeppelin Medley* Tarja & Mike - Swanheart (Nightwish)* Mike & Tarja - Fly Me To The Moon (Frank Sinatra)* Tarja & Mike - Into The Sun (Tarja)* Tarja & Mike - I Walk Alone (Tarja)

DVD/Blu-ray track listing:

First Part

* Orchestra - Carmen Overture* Mike - Concert For Violin & Oboe (Bach)* Tarja - Blute Nur (Bach)* Tarja - Zueignung - Op. 10, No. 1 (Strauss)* Mike - Barber of Seville (Rossini)* Mike - New World Symphony (Dvorák)* Tarja - Song To The Moon (Dvorák)* Tarja - Vilja Lied (Lehár)* Tarja - O mio babbino caro (Puccini)* Tarja & Mike - The Reign (Tarja)

Second Part

* Tarja - You Take My Breath Away (Queen)* Tarja & Mike - Witch-hunt (Tarja)* Tarja & Mike - Led Zeppelin Medley* Tarja & Mike – Swanheart (Nightwish)* Mike - Can-can (Offenbach)* Tarja - Mein Herr Marquis (Strauss)* Mike & Tarja - Fly Me To The Moon (Frank Sinatra)* Tarja & Mike - Into The Sun (Tarja)

Encore

* Mike - William Tell Overture (Rossini)* Tarja - I Feel Pretty (Leonard Bernstein)* Mike - Eine kleine Nachtmusik (Mozart)* Tarja & Mike - I Walk Alone (Tarja)

* Bonus material* Photo Gallery

For more information, visit tarja-beautyandthebeat.com.



Fan-filmed performance footage (April 6, 2013 in Zlin, Czech Republic):

Metal Blade has inked a license deal with CNR Records for the brand new CHANNEL ZERO album, "Kill All Kings". The effort will be released by Metal Blade worldwide (except for the Benelux territories) on June 20 as a digipack CD and digital download.

Formed in 1990, CHANNEL ZERO started has released five albums and is by far the most successful metal band ever to come out of Belgium.

In 2013, the band started to work on its sixth studio album, combined with playing at a handful of summer festivals to try out some of the new songs. On August 10, 2013, an unforeseen tragedy shook the entire metal community when drummer Phil Baheux was found dead in his home due to a rupture of an artery. The boyish, up-to-no-good giant had always been the energetic center of the band. And when the remaining bandmembers played a short acoustic set in honor of Phil at the Brussels Summer Festival, it felt as the final end of the band.

But never give up, never surrender; that was Phil and more. So late fall 2013, the band decided to continue, honoring their friend and comrade. With the new album, "Kill All Kings", CHANNEL ZERO starts a new chapter in their impressive music career. Mikey seems to have become the riff DNA of the band and Franky challenges himself with ferocious vocal eruptions, even in his own dialect with the song "Duisternis" (= darkness). The tracks "Digital Warfare" and "Mind Over Mechanics" prove that CHANNEL ZERO is more combative than ever. And with Roy Mayorga (STONE SOUR, SOULFLY) on drums during the studio recordings they have someone worthy to continue Phil B's legacy.

CHANNEL ZERO's sixth studio album shows a band combining technical workmanship with raw energy and groove. "Kill All Kings" is a thundering musical pinball game between Teutonic trash, snarling groove metal, elusive melodies and that typical and completely unique sharp CHANNEL ZERO edge we have come to love more than anything else.

"Kill All Kings" track listing:

01. Dark Passenger02. Electronic Cocaine03. Burn The Nation04. Digital Warfare05. Ego06. Crimson Collider07. Kill All Kings08. Brother's Keeper09. Army Of Bugs10. Mind Over Mechanics11. Duisternis12. Heart Stop

HALESTORM's Lzzy Hale makes a guest appearance on "Shatter Me", the title track of the new album from the American violinist, dancer, performance artist and composer Lindsey Stirling. The CD will be released on April 29 and will by accompanied by a video for "Shatter Me", also featuring Hale.

A seven-minute video clip featuring behind-the-scenes footage from the recording sessions for the "Shatter Me" song can be seen below.

Stirling, a 27-year-old native of Orange County, California, and an "America's Got Talent" alum (she placed fifth in 2007), has sold more than 100,000 copies of her self-titled, independently released debut album since its arrival in the fall of 2012. She also has about 2.5 million Facebook fans and 274,000 Twitter followers.

Regarding how her collaboration with Lzzy came about, Lindsey said: "This song is very, very — obviously — different for a Lindsey Stirling track, because I've never written lyrics before, I've never gotten to blatantly say what I feel. I mean, all my songs have meaning behind them and I try to express that very strongly through the emotion that I want the song to feel for everyone. This time I got to literally say, 'This is what I want to share.' It was so important for me to find the right singer for it, becase I had in my mind the idea of who I wanted. I love vocalists like Hayley Williams from PARAMORE and Amy Lee from EVANESCENCE, so I really wanted a powerhouse, rock-star female vocalist. I came across Lzzy Hale's videos and HALESTORM's stuff, and I was just blown away by the energy that Lzzy has on stage, on camera, in her tracks. I immediately got really excited and was just keeping my fingers crossed that she would have a window to come and do this with me. So I reached out to her management, and really quickly, they responded right back that Lzzy was really excited about the track."

She added: "I had actually never heard of Lzzy before, I'm ashamed to admit it. And it's even funnier because she had never heard of me, and we both kind of became immediate fans of each other's work."

With their fifth album in the works, Dutch progressive/technical metallers TEXTURES will celebrate the 10th anniversary of their debut album, "Polars", this year. On account of this special occasion, TEXTURES will embark on a headline tour through Europe in October, during which the band will perform "Polars" in its entirety, supplemented with songs from the band's other albums. For two of these shows, the band has invited some special guests to make the festivity even bigger. These guests will be announced later these coming months.

Tour dates:

Oct. 18 - Madrid, Spain - Shoko Oct. 23 - Cologne, Germany - Underground Oct. 24 - Bulle, Switzerland - Ebullition Oct. 25 - Lyon, France - CCO Oct. 26 - Paris, France - Damage Festival Oct. 29 - London, UK - The Garage Oct. 30 - Eindhoven, The Netherlands - Effenaar KZ * Oct. 31 - Amstelveen, The Netherlands - P60 *

* With special guests

In 2004, TEXTURES made a dent in the metal scene with "Polars". Inspiring later bands like PERIPHERY, TESSERACT and MONUMENTS, their state-of-the-art combination of diverse metal styles would pave the way for new genres as modern, prog, math metal and djent.

In honor of this, TEXTURES will release "Polars" exclusively on vinyl for the first time.

"Polars" is still the only missing vinyl record in the four-album discography of TEXTURES. Also the band will release new "Polars"-related merchandise. Items can be purchased later this year.

In what appears to be a preview of the upcoming settlement announcement over the rights to the QUEENSRŸCHE name, singer Geoff Tate's QUEENSRŸCHE webpage has changed. It no longer says "QUEENSRŸCHE" at the top and now features a banner with the words "Geoff Tate: The Voice Of QUEENSRŸCHE." In addition, there is a link to "QUEENSRŸCHE Without Geoff Tate" which points to QueensrycheOfficial.com, the official webpage of the Todd La Torre-fronted version of the band.

QUEENSRŸCHE guitarist Michael Wilton recently confirmed that Tate — who was fired from the Seattle progressive rock band in 2012 after fronting it for three decades — and his former bandmates have reached a settlement in their legal battle over the rights to the group's name.

Speaking to the Allentown Music Examiner, Wilton was asked when fans can expect a resolution of the legal case involving the two versions of QUEENSRŸCHE. "That's coming up," Wilton said. "What I can say is that both sides have reached an amicable settlement and it's now just a matter of time. There will be an official press release, but for now, you'll have to wait."

Wilton also revealed that the Todd La Torre-fronted version of QUEENSRŸCHE is continuing work on material for the follow-up to last year's self-titled effort. "We've already begun the process for the next album," he said. "We have probably six songs demoed so far. We're taking it in a direction suited to what we do as QUEENSRŸCHE but maybe a little more progressive and heavier. The thing is, you never know what you really have until it's complete. It's like carving a piece of clay and seeing how it turns out. You peel off the layers until you get to something really cool."

Tate and his wife, Susan, QUEENSRŸCHE's former manager, filed a lawsuit in June 2012 asking the judge to award them the rights to the band's name in exchange for Tate paying Eddie Jackson (bass), Michael Wilton (guitar) and Scott Rockenfield (drums) the fair market value for their interests in the QUEENSRŸCHE companies. Wilton, Rockenfield and Jackson filed a countersuit against the Tates in which they accused Geoff of creative obstruction and violent behavior, and Susan Tate of questionable business practices.

While ruling against Tate, the presiding judge determined that there was no legal hurdle in Tate also using the name with an all-new lineup of musicians. "I don't see any reason that Mr. Tate can't have the benefit, if he gets other members, of whatever name he uses of using the brand," Superior Court Judge Carol A. Schapira said during the July 13, 2012 court hearing. "I think [doing that would be] inherently confusing, although I'm sure the market can get these things sorted out," she added.

Wilton, Rockenfield and Jackson last year accused Geoff Tate of "continu[ing] to harm the QUEENSRŸCHE brand" since the Tates' original lawsuit was filed in June 2012. In a court document, they wrote: "The newest self-titled QUEENSRŸCHE CD release by the [Todd La Torre-fronted version of the band] entered the U.S. charts at #23 and continues to get 9-out-of-10-star reviews and is still selling very well on a weekly basis around the globe. In comparison, Geoff Tate released his own QUEENSRŸCHE CD in April of [2013] titled 'Frequency Unknown' and depicted as F.U. on the cover, which entered the charts at #82, received very bad reviews around the world, and has slowed to almost no more weekly sales. [The Todd La Torre-fronted version of QUEENSRŸCHE's] new CD even outperformed the last two CDs of them with Geoff Tate, selling more in a month than the 'Dedicated to Chaos' CD has since its release in 2010, and charting much better than both that album and the previous one, 'American Soldier'. Thus, the return to the classic sound [Tate's former] bandmates have made with the new CD and live shows has been met with overwhelming success."

They added: "Geoff Tate also chose very poorly in hiring live musicians that have shown that they are not capable of representing the correct performances of the QUEENSRŸCHE music legacy, and he was constantly replacing them. He has been offering his low-quality version of QUEENSRŸCHE to the promoters at a much reduced rate, as low as $10,000 per night, when, in fact, [his former] bandmates have done their best to keep the authorized QUEENSRŸCHE at an average of well over $20,000 per show this entire year. However, this becomes harder and harder with Geoff Tate's sub-par band and cut-rate pricing that continues to be damaging to the QUEENSRŸCHE brand and legacy no matter who ultimately wins control after trial."

In an interview with The Oakland Press, Rockenfield said said that "negotiations are ongoing between Tate and the singer's former bandmates and "there's still time for anything to happen between now and [the start of the trial]."

"I think our confidence is pretty high," Scott said. "There's a lot of legal stuff you have to deal with, but we just feel good and look at it as a light at the end of the tunnel and keep playing shows and making music. I think when you do that, the right decision will be made in time."