War On Music Records will release a massive GORGUTS demo anthology on vinyl. After almost two years of planning, re-planning, adding and expanding, the Canadian based vinyl label is ready to unleash a colossal collection titled ...And Then Comes Lividity, named after the cult 1990 demo tape which first caught the attention of Roadrunner Records.

This massive demo anthology is spread out over three volumes, includes the legendary 1990 ...And Then Comes Lividity demo on a high fidelity 45rpm 12" LP; both the 1991 Considered Dead demo tapes and the 1992 Erosion Of Sanity demos in full; and the three rare Obscura demo tapes from '93, '94 and '95, containing early incarnations of the songs that would eventually comprise the groundbreaking 1998 masterpiece.
First time ever on vinyl, all tracks have been fully and carefully remastered by Gorguts bassist / engineer Colin Marston in the Thousand Caves Studios, capturing for display the raw and terrifying genius contained in these recordings.

The full anthology will be packaged separately over three volumes, each strictly limited to only 500 copies, as well as a complete box set featuring new original artwork from the one-and-only Dan Seagrave, also limited to only 500 copies worldwide.

Versions
-Vol.1 - …And Then Comes Lividity Demo Tap 1990 (12” MLP black vinyl)
-Vol. 2 – Consdiered Dead Demos 1991 / Erosion Of Sanity 1992 (12” LP black vinyl)
-Vol. 3 – Obscura Demos 1993-1995 (12” LP + 7”, black vinyl)

Box set includes: All 3x 12" LPs + 7" on Limited Color Vinyl (400 White / 100 Silver), 24x24 Color Poster featuring the artwork of Dan Seagrave.

The first 100 box sets preorders will also include a bonus cassette reproduction of the 1990 Demo tape with original artwork. Preorders will be up soon.

This Friday, April 11, New Wave Of British Heavy Metal legends SATAN will play their first-ever show in the USA. 34 years after the band's formation in Newcastle Upon Tyne, they will headline a three-band event in New York City to kick off the U.S East Coast leg of their "Live Sentence World Tour". All six North American shows — including those in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Baltimore, Maryland; Richmond, Virginia; Worcester, Massachusetts; and Montreal, Quebec, Canada — will be recorded for a possible live album release.

The SATAN members are still buzzing from recent dates in Europe and South America and have promised "life-changing" performances for those long-neglected North American fans.

Midwest and West Coast dates are currently being lined up for October.

SATAN North American tour dates:

April 11 - Brooklyn, NY - Black Bear BarApril 12 - Montreal, QC - KatacombesApril 13 - Worcester, MA - Ralph's Rock DinerApril 14 - Philadelphia, PA - Kung Fu NecktieApril 15 - Richmond, VA - Strange MatterApril 16 - Baltimore, MD - The Metro Gallery

SATAN's latest album, "Life Sentence", was released on April 29, 2013 in Europe and May 21, 2013 in the U.S. via Listenable Records. The cover artwork for the effort was drawn by Eliran Kantor (TESTAMENT, HATEBREED, SODOM) and depicts a similar graphic concept as that of the band's debut album, "Court In The Act", originally issued 30 years ago.

"Life Sentence" was mixed by Dario Mollo, who is part of TONY MARTIN'S HEADLESS CROSS touring project and has worked with numerous artists as a producer and engineer, including SKYCLAD, ANATHEMA, CRADLE OF FILTH, LACUNA COIL, Tony Martin and Glenn Hughes. The CD was recorded September-November 2012 at First Avenue Studios in Newcastle, England and was mixed and mastered by Mollo at Damage Inc. Studio in Italy. The songs deal with the following topics: injustice, impending death, reincarnation, atonement, third-world politics, and biblical retribution.

"Life Sentence" is the culmination of a process that began when the original "Court In The Act" lineup got together for an exclusive "one-off" reunion show at Germany's Keep It True festival in 2011 in what marked their first performance together in 28 years. The band was somewhat overwhelmed with the response — 10 minutes into headliners CRIMSON GLORY's set, the crowd could still be heard chanting, "Satan! Satan!" The SATAN bandmembers immediately booked more shows in Germany, Holland, Belgium and London, and have since kept in close contact with each other, writing songs and making demos.

The recording lineup for "Life Sentence" was the same as that on "Court In The Act":

Brian Ross (vocals) Steve Ramsey (guitar) Russ Tippins (guitar) Graeme English (bass) Sean Taylor (drums)

SATAN is one of the most important groups that emerged in the early NWOBHM era. Their unique mixture of heavy and power metal spirit with thrash riffage brought a handful of unforgettable tunes and revolutionized heavy music as we know it.

"Court in the Act" was SATAN's debut release and was considered a true milestone at the time of its release (1983). The songs were melodic, but at the same time very aggressive. The band's two guitarists, Russ Tippins and Steve Ramsey, delivered a truly amazing performance; although their styles were completely different, they managed to perfectly complement each other's playing and introduced a handful of timeless riffs and solos.

A digipack reissue of "Court In The Act" was made available in November 2008 featuring three bonus tracks.

Fan-filmed video footage of SATAN performing on June 8, 2013 at the Sweden Rock Festival in Sölvesborg, Sweden can be seen below.

Candlelight Records has set a June 24 North American release date for "IX", the new album from CORROSION OF CONFORMITY. Produced by the band and longtime comrade John Custer, the album and lead single "On Your Way" will be available for preorders via iTunes, Amazon and other popular outlets beginning May 13. Video footage filmed at the recording studio, including vocalist Mike Dean and drummer Reed Mullin laying down vocal tracks, plus guitarist Woodroe Weatherman tracking some of the albums killer riffs, has been seen by fans around the globe.

"The making of 'IX' was drawn out because of us having to step away to do other projects," comments Dean. "I think being forced to step away kept us hungry and then being back on the case with deadlines casting a shadow gave us a 'failure is no option' vibe and that really helped the final product." "This album is another step forward for us," adds Weatherman. "It seems like we keep heading more and more toward our rawer live sound with the studio recordings." Having recently returned from a successful European tour, the band is gearing up for the album's release and a year full of nonstop touring.

"CORROSION OF CONFORMITY are very much firing on all cylinders," noted Terrorizer magazine preceding the trio of English dates that were part of the larger Euro tour that had the band visiting ten countries for the first time in more than a year.

"We had some good shows," shares Dean. "To go back to Paris for the first time in years, without a new album, and have the type of response we had just shows me that there is new interest in the more creative heavier rock. And that this younger group of people is actually checking us out is huge to me." The band surprised European audiences with some new material from "IX". "We had 'On Your Way' in the set and people were jamming along," notes Dean. "It's uptempo but syncopated. I thought it fit right in even though technically we were still working it out."

"We did sneak in some new material on the European tour," asserts Weatherman. "It's great to see folks digging on stuff they have never heard before." Preorders for both CD and vinyl formats will be available shortly via Candlelight's official web stores. Watch for special bundles via the band in the coming weeks. "IX" track listing:

01. Brand New Sleep02. Elphyn03. Denmark Vesey04. The Nectar05. Interlude06. On Your Way07. Trucker08. The Hanged Man09. Tarquinius Superbus10. Who You Need To Blame11. The Nectar Revised CORROSION OF CONFORMITY has confirmed a number of limited performances on the East Coast this month beginning this Friday at The Pour House Music Hall in Raleigh. The band will perform at Saint Vitus Bar in Brooklyn on April 26, the Ottobar (with HIGH ON FIRE and EYEHATEGOD) in Baltimore on April 27, and wrap the month up with a show at Café 611 in Frederick (Maryland) on April 28.

20 years ago today, THE OFFSPRING released its breakout album "Smash" on Epitaph Records and made history. To celebrate, the band will begin playing the LP in its entirety on tour in Europe this May, June and early July before finishing out the summer with soon-to-be-announced U.S. "Smash" dates. Visit Offspring.com for the full list of current tour dates and to see which dates are the designated "Smash" shows. This August, Epitaph will commemorate the anniversary with a special 20th-anniversary edition of "Smash". "Smash" 20th-Anniversary Edition CD/Vinyl

Available now for pre-order via Offspring.com, this package will ship and be in stores in mid-August 2014 from Epitaph Records. The "Smash" 20th-Anniversary Edition will include the following:

* LP version containing the original 14 album tracks newly remastered on 180-gram vinyl* CD version containing the original 14 album tracks from the most recent remastering* Restyled album package artwork* Large-format 24-page booklet featuring never-before-seen archive photos by Lisa Johnson* Firsthand recollections and quotes from the band and others telling the story of that historic time In addition to special 20th-anniversary merchandise, the band is also offering a "collector's box" combo as a companion piece to the "Smash" 20th-anniversary edition. The box will feature both the CD/vinyl package and a curated collection of commemorative items including a custom wood box, art print, photo prints, pin, patch, replica pass and guitar pick. A pre-order for is available now via Offspring.com. For the first 250 ordered, the art print will be on fine art linen canvas, numbered and signed by the artist and band. All orders placed in the first 24 hours will receive a special hand-stamped first day of release card as well. "Smash" has sold over six million copies in the United States alone — certified 6x platinum by the Recording Industry Association Of America. Having shifted 11 million copies worldwide, "Smash" is the best-selling independent label album of all time. "Smash" was an impactful and immediate hit when released in 1994, making a place for the band in an exciting and significant time for alternative music. The album's first single, "Come Out And Play", hit No. 1 on Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart. The follow-up single, "Self Esteem", peaked at No. 4, and "Gotta Get Away" hit No. 6 on the Billboard Modern Rock Track Charts.

DRIVING MRS. SATAN, the London/Naples-based acoustic trio which reinterprets famous metal songs in a unique acoustic style, released its debut album, "Popscotch", last August via Agualoca Records. The CD features covers of old metal classics from the likes of AC/DC, SLAYER, IRON MAIDEN, FAITH NO MORE and more performed with female vocals, acoustic guitars and double bass.

DRIVING MRS. SATAN makes room for quiet into the history of heavy metal, borrowing lyrics and melodies from long-haired '80s hard rock, conditioner-only-washing them into the whispered politeness of indie pop, and rinsing them with the passion of jazzy, sound centered, avant-pop.

Claudia Sorvillo's unique voice is at once erotic and ethereal, transforming ferocious, macabre stories into joyful tales and cosy serenades through Ernesto Nobili's carefully interweaved guitars and trembling vocals, and Giacomo Pedicini's beautifully crafted double bass structures. In the midst of a house change in a record-hot summer, Giacomo's love for heavy metal re-emerged, and he began to re-envisage the songs that made him decide to become a musician in the first place. He found a perfect harmonic companion in Ernesto and they asked Claudia to lay down vocals on a song she never heard before in its original form, HELLOWEEN's "I Want Out". DRIVING MRS. SATAN was born. The song was released online in April of 2012 together with other four: AC/DC's "Hells Bells", BLACK SABBATH's "Never Say Die" and JUDAS PRIEST's "Living After Midnight". After that, they prepared a full record and a live show to bring their music into people's life and out of the studio.

"Popscotch" track listing:

01. I Want Out (HELLOWEEN)02. Battery (METALLICA)03. Killers (IRON MAIDEN)04. Caught In A Mosh (ANTHRAX)05. Killed By Death (MOTÖRHEAD)06. Hells Bells (AC/DC)07. 2 Minutes To Midnight (IRON MAIDEN)08. Can I Play With Madness (IRON MAIDEN)09. Never Say Die (BLACK SABBATH)10. South Of Heaven (SLAYER)11. From Out Of Nowhere (FAITH NO MORE)

DRIVING MRS. SATAN is:

Claudia Sorvillo - VocalsGiacomo Pedicini - Double BassErnesto Nobili – Acoustic and Classical Guitars, Ukulele, Backing Vocals

Legendary Norwegian black metal instigators MAYHEM will release their fifth full-length album, "Esoteric Warfare", on May 23 via Season Of Mist. The effort, in its various formats, including a limited vinyl collector's box, will be made available for pre-order on the Season Of Mist e-shop next week. The stunning cover was created by Polish artist and architect Zbigniew M. Bielak and can be seen below.

MAYHEM's follow-up to 2007's "Ordo Ad Chao" was mixed at Mølla Studio in Gjerstad, Norway.

"Esoteric Warfare" track listing:

01. Watcher02. Psywar03. Trinity04. Pandaemon05. Mylab06. VI.Sec.07. Throne Of Time08. Corpse Of Care09. Posthuman10. Aion Suntalia

The song "VI.Sec" can be streamed using the SoundCloud widget below.

MAYHEM had always witnessed many lineup changes due to various circumstances. Therefore even the loss of guitarist Blasphemer, who decided to focus on his other band AVA INFERI in 2008, did not stop the band. Activities mainly revolved around live shows, until the right balance was found again with the recruitment of Morten "Teloch" Iversen. The guitarist had already made a name for himself with NIDINGR, which is highly regarded amongst black metal enthusiasts yet remained mostly an underground phenomenon.

Now his first compositional work with MAYHEM is unveiled and demonstrates how perfectly Teloch has captured the essence and spirit of the Norwegian legend by clearly linking the band back to its roots, while at the same time taking a step forward into the spearhead position of the genre instead of dwelling in nostalgia.

"Esoteric Warfare" is finally ready to be unleashed. This full-scale assault of total dark savagery of freezing riffs and Attila Csihar's inhumane vocals is entirely based on a concept dealing with the esoteric experimentations of the nuclear powers during the cold war. The album proves once again and beyond doubt that MAYHEM are the Alpha and the Omega of black metal!

MAYHEM's "Psywar" single will precede the full-length effort on April 25.

The "Psywar" lyric video was created by revered artist Costin Chioreanu (SPIRITUAL BEGGARS, ORANSSI PAZUZU, VULTURE INDUSTRIES) and can be seen below.

"Psywar" is available for pre-order from Season Of Mist.

MAYHEM previously announced a first set of European shows in support of "Esoteric Warfare". The tour will kick off on May 14 in Germany at Hamburg's famous Markthalle and continue to rage through ten countries until a final onslaught in Denmark's capital Copenhagen at Pumpehuset.

MAYHEM is:

Attila Csihar: VocalsTeloch: GuitarNecrobutcher: BassHellhammer: DrumsCharles Hedger: Guitar (live)

An EPK (Electronic Press Kit) for "Give 'Em Hell", the new solo album from former SKID ROW singer Sebastian Bach, is available below. Due on April 22 via Frontiers Records, the follow-up to 2011's "Kicking & Screaming" was once again produced by Bob Marlette, who has previously worked with ROB ZOMBIE, BLACK SABBATH and SHINEDOWN, among others.

The video for the CD's first single, "Temptation", can be seen below. The clip was directed by Patrick Fogarty, who has previously worked with BLACK VEIL BRIDES, PICTURE ME BROKEN and THE BURNING OF ROME.

Of the new album, Sebastian Bach enthused: "I could not be more proud of the new CD, 'Give 'Em Hell'. As a rock music fan myself, I listen to it every single day. As a musician, I honestly feel like I have reached a new level of album recording. As an audiophile, I could not be more blown away by the sound! The production and mastering sound so good that it's perfect to show off your high-end stereo system.

"Ever since my first record, 'Skid Row', on through 'Slave To The Grind' up to 'Kicking & Screaming' and 'Angel Down', I have always been concerned, first and foremost, with making quality records for my fans. And I can honestly say that 'Give 'Em Hell' meets or even exceeds the standards set by some of the records I have put out in the past.

"I can't wait for you all to hear this record! Let's 'Give 'Em Hell' in 2014, mothertruckers!"

Fans who pre-order from iTunes will be able to get the first taste of new music as the pre-order includes an instant download of the song "Hell Inside My Head", a classic loud and heavy rocker from Bach.

"Give 'Em Hell" was mastered at Precision Mastering in Los Angeles with Tom Baker.

Sebastian managed to involve in the writing and recording some very special friends and guest stars, including none other than Duff McKagan (VELVET REVOLVER, GUNS N' ROSES), and not one but two top-class guitar players: John 5 (MARILYN MANSON, ROB ZOMBIE) and Steve Stevens (BILLY IDOL). Rounding out the lineup on the CD are Devin Bronson (AVRIL LAVIGNE, PINK) on guitar and Bobby Jarzombek (HALFORD, RIOT, FATES WARNING) on drums. Duff and Sebastian previously collaborated on Duff's solo album "Believe In Me".

The cover for "Give 'Em Hell" (see below) was once again handled by Richard Villa, who worked on "Kicking & Screaming". Incorporated into the album design is one of the paintings by Sebastian's late father David Bierk, who painted the artwork for SKID ROW's "Slave To The Grind", inside artwork for SKID ROW's "Subhuman Race", and Bach's solo albums "Angel Down" and "Bring 'Em Bach Alive!".

"Give 'Em Hell" track listing:

01. Hell Inside My Head02. Harmony03. All My Friends Are Dead04. Temptation05. Push Away06. Dominator07. Had Enough08. Gun To A Knife Fight09. Rock N Roll Is A Vicious Game10. Taking Back Tomorrow11. Disengaged12. Forget You

Bach previously stated about "Give 'Em Hell": "We have captured some kick-ass rock and roll magic and producer par excellence Bob Marlette is the wizard behind the board.

"It is such an awesome feeling to be able to say to the planet if you like the music I have put out before, I can guarantee you will dig this one! I cannot stop listening to it and that is the whole intention.

"For those of you who dig my high crazy-ass screams of the other records, well, I am proud to say this new disc features all the ranges and textures I have been known for, clean soaring melodic ballads and blood-curdling death screams from hell."

"Give 'Em Hell" EPK:

THE SKULL, the new band featuring original members of American doom metal legends TROUBLE — Eric Wagner (vocals) and Jeff "Oly" Olson (drums) — alongside longtime TROUBLE bassist Ron Holzner, SACRED DAWN guitarist Lothar Keller, and former TROUBLE bassist-turned-guitarist Chuck Robinson, has unleashed two new singles recorded with acclaimed producer/engineer Billy Anderson (MELVINS, NEUROSIS). The "limited-edition" white vinyl replica CD featuring "Sometime Yesterday Mourning" (side A) and "The Last Judgment" (side B) was made available today (Tuesday, April 8) via Tee Pee Records.

"Sometime Yesterday Mourning" and "The Last Judgment" can be streamed below. "Sometime Yesterday Mourning" is a doomy metal song written by Keller, Holzner and Wagner that showcases the genre pioneers' distinct style while "The Last Judgement" is a "revisiting" of the classic TROUBLE song of the same name that originally appeared on the classic 1983 "Metal Massacre IV" compilation album. "I think 'Sometime Yesterday Mourning' is the perfect song for THE SKULL to lead with and there's a reason why it was the first song we completed as a band," commented Wagner. "It's about coming to a point in life when it's just time for a new beginning, a fresh start if you will, and finally coming to terms with the past.

"Being that it is the 30th anniversary of the release of the song 'The Last Judgement' — the first song we ever released — we thought it fit perfectly for the B-side and considering what 'Sometime Yesterday Mourning' is about, it made sense to me. You have to go through your past to get to your future."

THE SKULL will follow the release of the new songs with its debut full length LP, tentatively slated for release this autumn.

THE SKULL is:

Eric Wagner - vocalsJeff "Oly" Olson - drums/keysRon Holzner - bassLothar Keller - guitarChuck Robinson - guitar

"Tin Soldier", the new video from WINGER, can be seen below. The song is taken from the band's new album, "Better Days Comin'", which will be released on April 18 in Europe and April 22 in North America via Frontiers Records. Fans who preorder the album now from iTunes will receive instant downloads of "Rat Race" (the first single) and the album's title track. The effort is available for pre-order on Amazon.com in a standard and deluxe configuration. The deluxe edition comes in a glossy digipak and includes the bonus track "Another Beautiful Day" and a DVD including a "Making Of The Album" documentary as well as videos for the first single "Rat Race" and title track, "Better Days Comin'".

"Tin Soldier" showcases WINGER building on its previous album's tendency toward prog-rock, delivering an intricate landscape that basks in harmonic, melodic components that weave through three different time signatures.

WINGER doing prog rock? It's not a total shocker.

Frontman, composer and producer Kip Winger acknowledges RUSH's Geddy Lee as a major influence. Winger (the man) has fronted the ALAN PARSONS PROJECT on tour and collaborated with DREAM THEATER keyboardist Jordan Rudess on several projects, along with WINGER drummer Rod Morgenstein.

"I remember when I saw the first Winger video many years ago," Rudess said. "I was struck by the high level of musicality within the band and the charisma of Kip Winger. I can still feel the magic and the power of this group.

"I've had the amazing fortune to work with Rod Morgenstein, one of the greatest drummers on the planet. He can play anything from solid rock to the craziest prog I can think of. I've also worked with Kip. His voice and musicianship shine through anything he touches, whether it's singing Rudess, GENTLE GIANT or ELP songs on my albums, creating original orchestral music in his own compositions or leading WINGER."

DEEP PURPLE guitarist Steve Morse, who's also in DIXIE DREGS with Morgenstein, added: "When I saw these guys live, I couldn't believe how good they sounded. I prefer bands that have many different influences; you know, the further you look, the more varied experiences and styles you'll find. That's what makes the music interesting on top of the great writing and performances. I witnessed them all bend over backwards to help keep a young musician's musical dream alive. After that, I describe them as my heroes."

WINGER has always been known for its incredible musicianship and the trend continues on "Better Days Comin'".

"On 'Better Days Comin'', we drew from our past to elaborate on our future," explains Kip Winger.

"The band is stronger than ever and very excited about the music on this record. We feel this album exemplifies the true sound of the band in every way."

"Better Days Comin'" track listing: 01. Midnight Driver Of A Love Machine 02. Queen Babylon03. Rat Race04. Better Days Comin'05. Tin Soldier06. Ever Wonder07. So Long China08. Storm In Me09. Be Who You Are, Now10. Another Beautiful Day (deluxe edition bonus track)11. Out Of This World

WINGER formed in the late 1980s and soared to immediate success with its 1988 self-titled release. The album spawned the hit singles "Seventeen" and "Headed For A Heartbreak" and achieved platinum sales status. "Winger" also stayed on The Billboard 200 chart for over 60 weeks where it peaked at #21. Their next album, "In The Heart Of The Young", also achieved platinum status behind the singles "Can't Get Enuff" and "Miles Away". The change in musical climate of the mid-'90s, compounded with unprovoked ridicule on MTV's popular "Beavis And Butt-Head" show, led the band to go on hiatus in 1994. In 2001, WINGER reunited and has not looked back since.

Swedish metallers AVATAR will release their new album, "Hail The Apocalypse", on May 16 via Gain Music in Europe and May 13 through eOne in USA. The CD was recorded in Karma Sound Studios, Bang Saray, Thailand, mixed by Jay Ruston (STONE SOUR, ANTHRAX, STEEL PANTHER) and mastered by Paul Logus (VOLBEAT, CLUTCH, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE).

AVATAR is described by many as a perfect mix between RAMMSTEIN, ALICE COOPER and SYSTEM OF A DOWN — something the band has now developed further with the video for "Hail The Apocalypse".

"Hail The Apocalypse" track listing:

01. Hail The Apocalypse02. What I Don't Know03. Death Of Sound04. Vultures Fly05. Bloody Angel06. Murderer07. Tsar Bomba08. Puppet Show09. Get In Line10. Something In the Way11. Tower

The song "Bloody Angel" can now be streamed using the SoundCloud widget below.

"'Bloody Angel' is about shame and guilt," says AVATAR frontman Johannes Eckerström. "You look around and watch all the suffering and while you search for someone or something to blame, you end up in front of a mirror. Everything you touch, you break. Everyone you try to save you hurt and push further away."

Eckerström comments on the "Hail The Apocalypse" video, which can be seen below: "This is our best video to date. I play your friendly neighborhood doomsday prophet. You get to follow me facing the unbelievers and their reactions when chaos ensues. Good times all around and we are using some really amazing special effects to blow up the planet. Oh, and it's done like a silent movie."

The visually stimulating "Hail The Apocalypse" album cover has also been reveled. It vividly depicts the band steering their ship through a storm on the open sea with the apocalypse happening all around them. They're facing it, riding the waves and taking on whatever comes their way. To the band, it symbolizes the time in the darkness that made these songs.

AVATAR gained much attention when it comes to its creativity in videos, which are always produced by the bandmembers themselves.

Since the release of the band's last CD, "Black Waltz", AVATAR has had massive success all over the world. The singles "Smells Like A Freakshow" and "Let It Burn" peaked on No. 26 on U.S. commercial rock radio charts, where they also stayed for several weeks well ahead of more established bands in the scene. This was followed by extensive and successful U.S. tours. The biggest break through came when AVENGED SEVENFOLD personally picked AVATAR as support band on their sold-out arena tour in Europe late 2013. AVATAR got a reception far beyond expected by the crowds, which resulted in bookings on high profiled festivals such as Download festival and Rock On The Range in 2014, among own headline dates of which most are soon sold out.

AVATAR is: Johannes Michael Gustaf Eckerström - VocalsJohn Alfredsson - DrumsKungen - GuitarTim Öhrstrom - GuitarHenrik Sandelin - Bass

Guitar legend Neal Schon has joined forces with bassist Marco Mendoza (BLACK STAR RIDERS, TED NUGENT, WHITESNAKE, THIN LIZZY) and drummer Deen Castronovo (JOURNEY, OZZY OSBOURNE, STEVE VAI, HARDLINE) to create a unique body of work with jazz and blues-inspired virtuosic hard rock playing, entitled "So U". The new album features Schon, Mendoza and Castronovo splitting vocal and writing duties, with many of the tracks also co-written by NIGHT RANGER/DAMN YANKEES songwriter, singer and bassist Jack Blades.

"So U" track listing: 01. Take A Ride02. So U03. Exotica04. What You Want05. Love Finds A Way06. On My Way07. Serenity08. Shelter09. Big Ocean

The video for the song "Exotica" can be seen below. The psychedelic clip, which includes commentary from Schon, Mendoza and Castronovo, is one of two instrumental tracks from the effort.

Of "So U", Neal Schon commented, "This is a great new record that features all three of us — Deen, Marco and myself — sharing lead vocals. Enjoy!" Best known as founding member and lead guitarist of JOURNEY, Neal Schon has enjoyed a remarkable career as one of rock 'n' roll’s top virtuosos, with a hand in creating some of the most popular songs of all time. Beginning his career more than 35 years ago in the San Francisco Bay area, the 15-year-old guitar prodigy left home to join Santana. Schon moved on in 1973 to form JOURNEY. With JOURNEY and other projects, he has earned 19 Top 40 singles and 25 platinum and gold albums, was awarded the prestigious "Legend Of Live Award" at the 2011 Billboard Touring Awards, received a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame in 2005 and was individually inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall Of Fame in 2013. As the only member to record on all of JOURNEY's albums, Schon continues with the band today in its latest incarnation. In addition to 6 solo albums and 14 studio albums with JOURNEY, Neal Schon has performed with Joe Cocker, Sammy Hagar, Paul Rodgers, Larry Graham, Betty Davis, Michael Bolton, fusion legend Jan Hammer, HARDLINE and supergroup BAD ENGLISH, as well as a variety of side projects. His latest instrumental solo album, "The Calling", released in 2012 via Frontiers Records, won rave reviews from fans and the media alike, with Vintage Guitar declaring "'The Calling' is a fine piece of work demonstrating that Schon still has it going on — and then some…The songs are strong and his guitar tones are absolutely luxurious." In demand as one of the leading guitarists of his generation, Schon also worked with Gibson to manufacture his own limited edition Neal Schon signature model custom Les Paul guitar, but now uses custom PRS Neal Schon LTD Private Stock guitars, made especially for Neal by Paul Reed Smith.

New Orleans sludge metal veterans CROWBAR will release their new album, "Symmetry In Black", in North America on May 27 via Entertainment One Music. The CD, which will be made available in Europe on May 26 through Century Media Records, was produced by CROWBAR guitarist/vocalist Kirk Windstein and Duane Simoneaux and was mixed by Josh Wilbur (LAMB OF GOD, GOJIRA).

"Symmetry In Black" track listing:

01. Walk With Knowledge Wisely02. Symmetry In White03. The Taste Of Dying04. Reflection Of Deceit05. Ageless Decay06. Amaranthine07. The Foreboding08. Shaman Of Belief09. Teach The Blind To See10. A Wealth Of Empathy11. Symbolic Suicide12. The Piety Of Self-Loathing

The song "Walk With Knowledge Wisely" can be streamed using the SoundCloud widget below.

Says CROWBAR guitarist/vocalist Kirk Windstein: "'Walk With Knowledge Wisely' is the perfect opener for 'Symmetry In Black'. It has every element of the CROWBAR sound and is like an anvil to the face. It's CROWBAR at its finest."

The release of "Symmetry In Black" will coincide with the 25th anniversary of the CROWBAR's inception. Windstein said: "CROWBAR is my heart and soul. The music is a part of me that I am extremely proud of.

"It's an amazing feeling to be putting all of my energy and focus into something that I created 25 years ago!

"We are extremely excited to release our 10th full length & to bring the riffs to as many people as possible on tour." CROWBAR will make a bone-crushing appearance at Maryland Deathfest in the U.S. Windstein exited DOWN in September 2013 in order to focus "100%" on CROWBAR. He was replaced in DOWN by the band's longtime stage manager and HONKY founding guitarist Bobby Landgraf.

CROWBAR last year announced the addition of bassist Jeff Golden to the group's ranks.

Jeff is from Bolton, Connecticut, but currently resides in Estero, Florida.

CROWBAR is:

Kirk Windstein (Guitar, Vocals)Matt Brunson (Guitar)Tommy Buckley (Drums)Jeff Golden (Bass)

Fan-filmed video footage of RED DRAGON CARTEL performing the BADLANDS classic "High Wire" 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).

BLACK SABBATH members Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass) and Ozzy Osbourne (vocals) were presented with platinum plaques by Universal in Montreal, Quebec earlier today (Monday, April 7) for Canadian sales of their 2013 comeback album, "13", (100,000 copies) and their live album and DVD/Blu-ray, "Live... Gathered In Their Masses" (10,000 copies). Photos of the presentation, as tweeted earlier today by rock journalist Mitch Lafon, can be seen below.

"13" debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard album chart in June 2013, the first SABBATH album to ever top the U.S. chart.

The disc features Ozzy, Butler and Iommi playing together for the first time in 35 years. Their last effort together was 1978's "Never Say Die!"

"13" has sold more than 360,000 copies in the United States since its June 2013 release.

"Black Sabbath: Live… Gathered In Their Masses" sold around 9,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 2 on the Top Music Videos chart. Released on November 26, 2013, the set was recorded April 29 and May 1, 2013 in Melbourne, Australia when the band kicked off its world tour in support of "13".

BLACK SABBATH's current North American tour consists of a series of 10 shows encompassing mostly Canadian stops until winding down on April 26 in Los Angeles. According to a press release, these gigs are among the final shows that SABBATH does in support of "13". A contract dispute led drummer Bill Ward to sit out the reunion, which was also marred by Iommi's cancer diagnosis in early 2012.

BLACK SABBATH was honored with a Grammy in the "Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance" category in the pre-telecast ceremony at the 56th annual Grammy Awards on January 26 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. BLACK SABBATH was nominated for the track "God Is Dead?", from "13". BLACK SABBATH's "God Is Dead?" also picked up a nomination in the "Best Rock Song" category. In addition, "13" earned a nod for "Best Rock Album", alongside LED ZEPPELIN's "Celebration Day" and QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE's "…Like Clockwork", among others.




one more of @OfficialSabbath Platinum Records for '13' before Apr 7th 2014 Montreal. @sabbathfans pic.twitter.com/RkhhsrFZ99

— Mitch Lafon (@mitchlafon) April 7, 2014

Vocalist Simone Simons and guitarist Isaac Delahaye of Dutch symphonic metallers EPICA took part in an in-store acoustic performance and signing session earlier today (Monday, April 7) at Vintage Vinyl in Fords, New Jersey. Video footage of the acoustic set — which included selections from "The Quantum Enigma", EPICA’s upcoming sixth studio album, due out in North America on May 6 — can be seen below. Where the 2013 "Retrospect" performance reflected on a decade as one of the leading bands in the symphonic metal scene, "The Quantum Enigma" marks the beginning of a new EPICA: modern, heavy, and without compromises.

Says the band: "More than any of our previous albums, this album is a group effort. The only goal we had in mind: creating the album that could lift EPICA up to the next level."

"The Quantum Enigma" was produced by Joost van den Broek at the Sandlane recording facility in the Netherlands. The album was mixed by Jacob Hansen (VOLBEAT, HATESPHERE).

"The Quantum Enigma" will be released in five different configurations:

01 - Regular jewel case02 - 2CD digipack03 - 3CD earbook04 - double vinyl05 - Digital download "The Quantum Enigma" track listing:

01. Originem02. The Second Stone03. The Essence Of Silence04. Victims Of Contingency05. Sense Without Sanity (The Impervious Code)06. Unchain Utopia07. The Fifth Guardian (Interlude)08. Chemical Insomnia09. Reverence (Living in the Heart) 10. Omen [The Ghoulish Malady] 11. Canvas of Life12. Natural Corruption13. The Quantum Enigma (Kingdom Of Heaven Part II) Digipack additional track: "In All Conscience"Earbook additional track: "Dreamscape"Vinyl additional track: "Memento"iTunes additional track: "Banish Your Illusion" Disc 2 (digipack and earbook only):

01. Canvas Of Life [acoustic version]02. In All Conscience [acoustic version]03. Dreamscape [acoustic version]04. Natural Corruption [acoustic version] Disc 3 (earbook Only):

01. Originem [instrumental]02. The Second Stone [instrumental]03. The Essence of Silence [instrumental]04. Victims Of Contingency [instrumental]05. Sense Without Sanity [instrumental]06. Unchain Utopia [instrumental]07. The Fifth Guardian [instrumental]08. Chemical Insomnia [instrumental]09. Reverence [instrumental]10. Omen [instrumental]11. Canvas Of Life [instrumental]12. Natural Corruption [instrumental]13. The Quantum Enigma [instrumental]

The official lyric video for the song "The Essence Of Silence" can be seen below.

In a recent interview with LiveReviewer, EPICA guitarist Isaac Delahaye stated about the making of "The Quantum Enigma": "It was very much our intention to really make songs. It was because we started with putting a lot of effort into the basics and we gave a lot of attention to the band part, more so than before. And, of course, Jacob Hansen mixed it and he knows how to do these things. We tried out several people and had them do a test mix of certain songs and he came out on top. It's become a heavy album, yet all the details are there. Previously, we used to go to the studio, tune our stuff and then we recorded an album. This time we did a long pre-production in the studio and we got to check out a lot of different combinations of amps and then we could record it. Previously, we just did everything in our home studios and sent each other the parts. And after that we would go into the studio and that's it. But now we sat down together and discussed a lot more, it was more of a band effort. It was working together, rather than reacting. Everyone brought songs to the table, which was very cool. With the previous album, it was mostly Mark, Coen and me writing a lot. And now even Ariën joined in and that made it all feel refreshing. It's odd to say, but it's kind of a new beginning." Longtime EPICA collaborator Stephan Heilemann once again created the stunning artwork to accompany the ideas behind the lyrics. Once you lay your hands on the album artwork, you will see that the cover is part of a bigger picture.

EPICA will return to the stage on April 30 for a CD-release performance at 013 in Tilburg, The Netherlands.

After taking a break from the road due the pregnancy of lead singer Simone Simons, the release of a new concert DVD, "Retrospect", as well as the writing and recording of the band's upcoming album, the sextet will put on a memorable concert, with plans to perform both old and new songs.

Stockholm, Sweden-based hard rockers FATAL SMILE will release their fifth studio album, "White Trash Heroes", on April 25 via FS Records/GMR Music Group. The CD was produced by Mr. Y, engineered/recorded by Philty and mixed by the two of them together. The song "Hip MF" features a guest appearance by W.A.S.P. guitarist Douglas Blair. Additional backing vocals on the album were provided by Paul Sabu.

"White Trash Heroes" track listing:

01. White Trash Heroes02. Like A Rockstar03. Heartache & Pain04. Dirty Little Secret05. Alive & Kicking06. I'm The Gun07. Down & Out08. Reflections From The Past09. Gave It All10. Hip MF Commented FATAL SMILE: "We really think this is our best album so far.

"Expect the hardest, in-your-face FATAL SMILE album yet recorded. It's not for the faint-hearted since it's louder, harder and faster than any of our previous albums."

The "White Trash Heroes" artwork was once again created by Carl André Beckston (MONOWASP).

The CD's second single, "White Trash Heros", was released worldwide digitally on April 4.

The album's first single, "Like A Rockstar", came out in November 2013 and was accompanied by a video, which can be seen below.

FATAL SMILE will kick off the "White Trash Over Europe Tour" on April 10 in Munich, Germany.

Belgium's leading black metal force ENTHRONED returns with a new studio album entitled "Sovereigns". The follow-up to 2012's critically acclaimed "Obsidium" is scheduled for an April 15 release via Agonia Records. "Sovereigns" drifts from sonic blast beats to oppressive slower parts, melds together aggressive shredding with forceful riffs, and blends satanic whispers with Nornagest's trademark vocals. On the whole, band's 10th album feels coherent and offers first-rate black metal. The album introduces a new drummer, Menthor, in the place of Garghuf and a new rhythm guitarist ZarZax.

"Sovereigns" was recorded and mixed in ENTHRONED's own studio, Blackout Multimedia. The album will be available in: digipack CD, black vinyl, bone-white vinyl with green splatter limited to 100 hand-numbered copies and exclusive box CD limited to 333 hand-numbered copies (including the new album released in exclusive jewel-case edition, embroidered patch (8 cm x 10 cm), flag (42 cm x 59.4 cm) and a lighter with band's logo).

"Sovereigns" track listing:

01. Anteloquium02. Sine Qua Non03. Of Feathers And Flames04. Lamp Of Invisible Lights05. Of Shrines And Sovereigns06. The Edge Of Agony07. Divine Coagulation08. Baal al-Maut09. Nerxiarxin Mahathallah

The song "Lamp Of Invisible Lights" can be streamed using the SoundCloud widget below.

ENTHRONED is:

Nornagest - lead vocals & lead guitars Phorgath - bass Neraath - lead guitars Menthor - drums ZarZax - rhythm guitar

Amateur videographer John Erigo has uploaded video footage of Californian rockers BUCKCHERRY performing a new song, "Say Fuck It", on April 5 the House Of Blues in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Check out the clip below.

Prior to launching into the track, BUCKCHERRY vocalist Josh Todd announced to the crowd that the band will release a new EP this summer called "Fuck". He explained that every song on the EP will have the word "fuck" in the title.

Todd told PopCultureMadness.com in a recent interview: "We're really excited about [the upcoming EP]. I don't wanna give it away yet, but there's definitely a theme to this EP, and if you're a BUCKCHERRY fan, it's a must-have. So it's really cool, and probably one the funnest times I've had writing songs." Todd admitted that the band continues to make records despite the fact that CD sales across the board continue to decline. He explained, "The record will go away at some point, because it's a single-driven market now. Everybody's going on iTunes and they just buy the songs that they like — that's it. They don't buy records. I mean, you see it all the time now, even in pop music — (there'll be) a big pop single, and they'll sell millions of singles, and then the record drops and they sell, like, 15,000 units."

BUCKCHERRY guitarist Keith Nelson told The Pulse Of Radio a while back that he wasn't discouraged by CD sales. "I believe in the album as an artform," he said. "I don't think that putting two songs that are gonna be played on the radio and then a bunch of filler stuff — that's not why we do this. But I have lost faith in the number of records sold as an indicator of success, because our audience is growing, our business is growing. Nothing has receded, except the actual number of physical records that are sold. So I don't think that's a true indication of our success."

Todd said in his interview that BUCKCHERRY has to tour more than ever to make up for the lack of CD sales, revealing, "You've gotta be on the road if you wanna make a living at this. There's no longer these days where you drop a single and sell millions of records and go out and tour for six months and then you can just chill and enjoy your life."

BUCKCHERRY's sixth studio album, 2013's "Confessions", sold 18,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 20 on The Billboard 200 chart.

German/American metal veterans ACCEPT have joined forces with Hellbrecht Optics to launch the official ACCEPT line of eyewear. More information can be found at this location.

ACCEPT will release its new album, "Blind Rage", on July 18 via Nuclear Blast. Like its two predecessors, 2010's "Blood Of The Nations" and 2012's "Stalingrad", the new CD was helmed by British producer Andy Sneap, who has previously worked with MEGADETH, EXODUS, TESTAMENT, ARCH ENEMY and KILLSWITCH ENGAGE.

ACCEPT singer Mark Tornillo recently told Metal Wani about what fans can expect to hear on "Blind Rage": "You can expect more of the same, but you can also expect, on this album, a little more diversity, I think. And the way I see it, some of the songs sound more classic than the stuff that we've done. I mean, there are songs, I think, when I hear the opening riff, I go, 'Wow! That could be on 'Balls To The Wall'.' So you're gonna get a few different… I mean, we're not searching for a direction at this point. We're writing to please ourselves and to please our fans… We're not changing horses in the middle of a stream. I mean, if something works for us, we're gonna stick with it. We're certainly not gonna change direction, but I think we're not afraid to step out a little bit. We're also not afraid to go back and be what the band was in the '80s, which is what we've really strived for."

Maryland rockers CLUTCH have uploaded video footage of the first day of pre-production for their next studio album. Check out the clip below.

CLUTCH recently entered Magpie Cage Recording Studio in Baltimore, with producer J. Robbins (THE SWORD, COLISEUM) to record the song "Run, John Barleycorn, Run" for a split seven-inch single with LIONIZE, to be released as part of this year's Record Store Day on April 19.

Founded in 2007 and officially kicked off in 2008 by METALLICA, Record Store Day normally takes place on the third Saturday of every April and brings together artists and independently owned record stores around the world to celebrate the art of music. Special vinyl and CD releases and various promotional products are made exclusively for the day and sold in independent stores.

CLUTCH's "Earth Rocker Live" was released on November 26, 2013 via Weathermaker Music.

"Earth Rocker Live" is a double-vinyl picture-disc set. The first LP is the studio version of CLUTCH's latest album, "Earth Rocker". The second LP consists of live versions of the same tracks in the same sequence as the original.

This is not a live recording of one show. The individual tracks of the live version were recorded at different shows throughout the band's May 2013 U.S. tour: Houston and San Antonio (Texas), Lincoln (Nebraska), Indianapolis (Indiana) and Fargo (North Dakota). The stunning artwork displays the four Indian heads from the original package in all their colorful beauty: one for each side. The most recent leg of CLUTCH's "Earth Rocker" world tour ran through November 23 in Detroit, Michigan. CLUTCH then hit the road for their annual holiday shows and continued on tour through January 18 in Huntington, West Virginia.

Fan-filmed video footage of THE WINERY DOGS — the power trio featuring drummer Mike Portnoy (DREAM THEATER, AVENGED SEVENFOLD, ADRENALINE MOB), legendary bassist Billy Sheehan (MR. BIG, TALAS, DAVID LEE ROTH) and guitarist/vocalist Richie Kotzen (MR. BIG, POISON) — performing on the Monsters Of Rock cruise, which sailed from Miami, Florida on March 29, can be seen below.

THE WINERY DOGS will release two new special versions of its self-titled debut album on April 15. "The Winery Dogs Special Edition" will consist of two-CDs. Disc 1 is the standard album and Disc 2 is entitled "Unleashed In Japan 2013", featuring 10 songs recorded live in Japan during the band's July 2013 tour, including "Criminal", a track previously unavailable in the U.S., along with a 16-page booklet of live photos and lyrics. A deluxe package for die-hard fans will be released simultaneously. "Dog Treats: The Winery Dogs Deluxe Special Edition" will be sold in a box resembling a box of dog treats, and will include the "Special Edition" collection of music, a DVD featuring four music videos and interview footage, demos from the original recording sessions, a "studio diary" written by Mike Portnoy, as well as some unique merchandise unavailable elsewhere. THE WINERY DOGS' self-titled debut album sold around 10,200 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 27 on The Billboard 200 chart. Released in North America on July 23, 2013 via Loud & Proud Records and in Japan on May 15, 2013 via Victor Entertainment, the CD was mixed by Jay Ruston, who has previously worked with ANTHRAX, ADRENALINE MOB, STONE SOUR and STEEL PANTHER.

"As soon as the three of us got together, we immediately established that we didn't want this to be some instrumental wankfest," Portnoy told NY Music Examiner in a new interview. "This was something that was going to be song-oriented and vocal-oriented, and something that moved us that way. I think that's where we're all at and we're all on the same page. Richie's been doing that for so long now, but Billy and I have always been associated with a million notes and technique and stuff like that. Yet the two of us are such fans of a good song and three-part vocal harmonies, so we were really looking to do something in that vein, and that was always the calling card for this band."

Regarding the reaction from the fans and press alike to THE WINERY DOGS' debut CD and live shows, Portnoy said: "All three of us could not be happier with the reception so far. It's been incredible. We went out for a lot of last year and toured all over the world, from South America to Japan to Europe to America, and everywhere we went it was so well-received. The fans have embraced it, and not only the fans, but the critics and all across the board. So it's so satisfying, especially at this point in all three of our careers. We've all been doing this for a long time now, but when you come together with something new, you kind of build it from scratch, no matter how established you are individually. And the fact that it's been so well received makes us want to continue to take this as far as we can."

He added: "I think the fact that all three of us have had our individual careers and individual acclaim kind of helps to keep the egos in check. It wasn't like a band where you had two guys that had done something and one was a newcomer. All of us had been around the block and have been doing this for 20-30 years now, so we had that mutual respect and we know what each person brings into the big picture.

"We've all been there, done that. We've played the Budokan multiple times and been around the world dozens of times, so at this point it's about the music. When the three of us came together, we didn't have this master plan of being the next GUNS N' ROSES; we had this master plan of getting together and making some music that the three of us enjoy. It was all about us seeing what the three of us could make together. If it gets us off, let's stick with it. That was always the goal, and so far we've achieved that goal. We made an album that all three of us are incredibly proud of and really enjoy listening to and playing."

Los Angeles glam-metal jokesters STEEL PANTHER took part in a press conference and acoustic performance on Thursday, April 3 at Hustler Hollywood in Hollywood, California. Check out video footage of the event below (courtesy of Artisan News).

STEEL PANTHER's third album, "All You Can Eat", is likely to sell between 15,000 and 17,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release, according to industry web site Hits Daily Double. The estimate was based on two-day sales reports compiled after the record arrived in stores on April 1 via Open E/KLS. The chart will be unveiled on Wednesday, April 9.

STEEL PANTHER's sophomore album, "Balls Out", opened with nearly 12,000 units back in November 2011 to land at position No. 40 on The Billboard 200 chart.

STEEL PANTHER premiered "All You Can Eat" in a unique interactive experience. The premiere is taking place here and features a television set that broadcasts all things STEEL PANTHER, including the complete album stream of "All You Can Eat".

With each change of the channel on the television set, fans experience different content from the STEEL PANTHER world. The set broadcasts the latest STEEL PANTHER music videos, current episodes of SP TV and a few surprises as well. The experience takes fans deeper in to the lifestyle of STEEL PANTHER and is a must-see for all Fanthers around the globe.

STEEL PANTHER has also launched a worldwide "hotline" that fans can call for up to the minute updates on the band. Fans who call 941-75-Steel (941-757-8335) and verify that they are over 18 are sent an immediate link to see the band’s latest unreleased video for the song "Gloryhole". The video was shot in an unnamed glory hole location and features a performance by STEEL PANTHER in the stalls as only they can do it. A few surprise visitors showed up that day during filming and can be seen in the video as well. The phone number has been getting major attention with fans around the globe calling in to experience what STEEL PANTHER delivers on the "hotline."

"All You Can Eat" track listing:

01. Pussywhipped 02. Party Like Tomorrow Is The End Of The World03. Gloryhole04. Bukkake Tears05. Gangbang At The Old Folks Home06. Ten Strikes You’re Out07. The Burden Of Being Wonderful08. F@#king My Heart In The Ass09. BVS10. You're Beautiful When You Don't Talk11. If I Was The King12. She's On The Rag

Regarding the new CD title, singer Michael Starr said: "We feel like STEEL PANTHER is like a buffet. You know what I mean?! There's a little bit of everything for everybody. And you can have as much of us as you want."

The not-safe-for-work version of the official "Party Like Tomorrow Is The End Of The World" video includes celebrity cameos by "Jackass" star Steve-O, porn icon Ron Jeremy, "Breaking Bad" actor RJ Mitte and MMA fighter Chuck Liddell.

STEEL PANTHER's first-ever DVD, "British Invasion", sold 3,300 copies in the United States in its first week of release back in November 2012 to debut at position No. 2 on Billboard's Top Music Videos chart.

EYE EMPIRE — the band featuring Corey Lowery (STUCK MOJO, STEREOMUD, DARK NEW DAY), B.C. Kochmit (SWITCHED) and Ryan Bennett (TEXAS HIPPIE COALITION) — has parted ways with vocalist Donald Carpenter (SUBMERSED).

Lowery, Kochmit and Bennett said in a statement: "For the last several years, we have committed every ounce of energy we collectively have to EYE EMPIRE. We've shared great heights and unbelievable lows. Through it all, we stood together like brothers, sacrificing on behalf of one another pursuing a dream. That vision, and the hopes that come with the quest, remain.

"Following the last run, it was brought to our attention that one member was making moves to re-assemble a former band. The moment that transpired, and there was an absence of communication, it was clear he had left the band.

"For the fans that have supported us, we love you and owe you so much.

"There will be another EYE EMPIRE album, and we will return to the road. However, that news will come when we find a fourth partner who is unequivocally committed to the journey and understands that our business is not to be misrepresented and aired with deceit publicly."

For his part, Carpenter posted the following on April 3: "Starting over is always hard but it's not the first time and I'm am certain that it won't be the last.

"Things are starting to come together, but still getting those curves coming in every once in awhile, but hey, that's life!"

EYE EMPIRE's latest album, "Evolve", was released on October 29, 2013.

The members of EYE EMPIRE all have seen success in the past through other ensembles. With the formation of EYE EMPIRE, however, they have proven a commitment to seeing through what they started. Lowery remembered: "B.C. and I started playing together when he was in SWITCHED, and I knew that he would be the guitar player that I would one day create something special and lasting with. He has a great sense of melody with rhythm and solos and a great understanding of arrangement and what's best for the song. He knows the difference between shredding and holding one note, and making that one note sing. He truly has his own style as an artist."

With the youngest member of the quartet, Ryan Bennett, Lowery reflected: "Simply one of the baddest drummers to come to the rock 'n roll scene in years. Grabbing some of his favorite drummers and making his own style with EYE EMPIRE. He's the guy that is always smiling staying positive until he gets behind the drums then he explodes."

According to The Pulse Of Radio, this Saturday (April 5) marks the 20th anniversary of the death of NIRVANA founder and frontman Kurt Cobain at the age of 27. Cobain, who killed himself with a shotgun in a room above the garage of his Seattle home, instantly joined the pantheon of rock legends who died too early, including Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Bon Scott, and more. Yet while many of those artists lived the rock star lifestyle to the fullest, Cobain was branded as something that he, by all accounts, never wanted to be — the spokesman for an entire generation. It's widely felt that Cobain's inability to reconcile his inner demons and fear of "compromise" with NIRVANA's massive success drove him to depression, drugs, and ultimately, suicide.

KORN guitarist Brian "Head" Welch recalled hearing NIRVANA's music and sensing that Kurt Cobain was already in a lot of pain. "I just remember tripping and going, 'Wow, that guy must have been like really in a dark place,' you know," he said. "It just shows you, you know, like that life isn't all about fame and being a rock star and making it and money and all that stuff, you know. It's about finding like who you are and being happy inside and finding that place, because you can have the whole world and still want to kill yourself. You know, even 20 years later, it's like a reality check, you know. We should use this, his anniversary of his death, as a reality check."

Former PANTERA and current HELLYEAH drummer Vinnie Paul Abbott said that while NIRVANA's success did a lot of damage to the metal scene at the time, he still liked the band and was shocked by Cobain's death. "NIRVANA was a huge band and I, like everybody else, I think — I don't know anybody who ever said they weren't a fan of them — thought they were great," he said. "And I was terribly shocked and kind of mortified as to what happened, you know. I never knew Kurt was that depressed and that kind of stuff, you know. Just didn't seem that way to me, you know. He was just big and larger than life."

ALICE IN CHAINS guitarist Jerry Cantrell was coming up on the Seattle music scene at the same time as NIRVANA and ran into Cobain occasionally. "I didn't really know Kurt that well, but there was a guy I always admired," he said. "We didn't spent much time together, but the few times we did spend together, you know, were times I'll always remember. You know, he was a really sweet guy, and a really genuine soul, you know, and an incredibly talented artist."

JUDAS PRIEST singer Rob Halford sums up what Kurt Cobain meant to rock music. "He was an absolute genius," he said. "In the legacy of rock and roll music, he'll be there with, like, Hendrix and Lennon and Joplin and Morrison. Incredibly evocative, inspiring, controversial, human musician. For me, there's been nothing great since NIRVANA, in the way it shook up the world. There's been nothing great since that band."

IRON MAIDEN bassist Steve Harris will take his solo/side project BRITISH LION back out on the road briefly this year with a 10-date European tour starting on July 8 in Norwich and rounding off with an open-air show at the annual International Motorcycle Convention at the Moto Clube De Faro, Portugal on Saturday, July 19 (full list of dates below). Tickets go on sale Monday, April 7 at 10:00 a.m. (11 a.m. local time outside the U.K.). Comments Steve: "As most fans know, I have strong ties with the Portuguese Moto Clube through our mutual friend Manu DaSilva, now sadly departed, who for many years ran MAIDEN's Eddie's Bar in Santa Barbara de Nexe near Faro. In fact, the first-ever BRITISH LION live show we played was in the Clubhouse itself!

"When they invited us back this year, to play at the same festival MAIDEN headlined in 2011 in memory of Manu, it provided the perfect opportunity to schedule a few shows beforehand on our way down to Faro from the U.K.

"We're playing clubs again, same as we did last year, as we all really love the vibe and intimacy of getting up close and personal with the crowd.

"Although we would have liked to have visited more cities and countries on this run, it simply hasn't been possible time-wise. This is for a number of reasons, probably of interest to MAIDEN fans!" BRITISH LION tour dates:

July 08 - Waterfront, Norwich, UK July 09 - Concorde 2, Brighton, UKJuly 10 - Quarterhouse, Folkestone, UKJuly 12 - De Pul, Uden, The Netherlands July 13 - Zaal Jagersborg, Maasmechelen, Belgium July 14 - Divan Du Monde, Paris, France July 15 - Metronum, Toulouse, France July 17 - Shoko, Madrid, Spain July 18 - Custom, Seville, Spain July 19 - International Moto Clube de Faro Convention, Portugal

BRITISH LION's debut album sold around 3,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 3 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.

"British Lion" was released in the U.S. on September 25, 2012 via Universal Music Enterprises (UMe). Mixed by Kevin Shirley — whose credits include IRON MAIDEN as well as Led ZEPPELIN, JOURNEY and RUSH, among many others — the CD, which features Harris alongside vocalist Richard Taylor, guitarists Graham Leslie and David Hawkins and drummer Simon Dawson, presents a different side of the bassist's musical visions.

"British Lion" comprises ten songs that Steve and his collaborators have been working on between IRON MAIDEN tours and releases and is described by Harris as "'70s-influenced, British-sounding hard rock." "I'd say it's more mainstream rock than metal... and quite commercial… but good commercial," he said. "There's all kinds of stuff going on, with nods to THE WHO and UFO and some classic British rock bands, but it's not the progressive rock album some might be expecting."

"British Lion" track listing: 01. This Is My God02. Lost Worlds03. Karma Killer04. Us Against The World05. The Chosen Ones06. A World Without Heaven07. Judas08. Eyes Of The Young09. These Are The Hands10. The Lesson

"Us Against The World" video:

Reactivated Los Angeles rap/hardcore/metal act DOWNSET has released the following statement:

"The rumors you have heard are true: the somewhat original DOWNSET lineup is playing [the] This Is Hardcore [festival] in July and will most likely play other shows to follow.

"To make things clear, there will not willingly be two versions of DOWNSET performing as that would be ignorant for obvious reasons.

"While we mean no offense to other bands that coexist in this way, Rey [Oropeza, vocals] is the face of DOWNSET, and if he has finally decided to take the wheel and drive, well, it's his car.

"DOWNSET was resurrected in 2013 with all original members invited at the time and only a couple willing and passionate enough to bring it back. So, with a new lineup, this reincarnated DOWNSET went on to tour through the summer and had a blast properly serving the fans night after night bringing that original West Coast hardcore sound back to the fans. During and since that summer, Rey, Ares [Schwager, guitar] and James [Morris, bass] have decided to come back and undoubtedly kill shows like they once have.

"Ultimately with dismay, this leaves the upcoming summer European tour up in the air. The next couple of weeks will tellingly procure details of the 'if' and 'how' of any resolution."

Formed in 1986, DOWNSET released albums on the Mercury and Epitaph labels before disbanding in 2009.

DOWNSET's most recent touring lineup was comprised of Neil Roemer (vocals), Rogelio Lozano (guitar), Christopher Lee (drums), and J.D. Manhart (bass).

LAMB OF GOD singer Randy Blythe has confirmed that he attended the April 1 private memorial for late GWAR frontman Dave Brockie (a.k.a. Oderus Urungus) in their hometown of Richmond, Virginia. Blythe writes on Instagram: "I was one of three people who were not part of GWAR who spoke. This was a gift and an honor for me.

"When someone you love dies, the very absence of that person grows into something huge and unmanageable unless you let it out somehow. This is the nature of grief, and this is what mourning with your community is for.

"I haven't been around my people enough lately.

"I tried to do him proud, and even got heckled a bit, which was ENTIRELY FITTING at a funeral for Dave.

"This was a private affair, only for friends and family, and there were several hundred rowdy crying folks there, so you can only imagine what the public memorial in August will be like. An uninvited fan even managed to piss me off.

"This should be obvious, but apparently people have gotten so stupid these days I have to say this: a) if you aren't invited, don't show up at a funeral. It's NOT a show, no matter who died, and b) if you do show up, just be quiet and respectful. Don't come up, tell me how awesome I am, start grinning and throwing the horns and ask for a picture.

"I took the photo, because it was either that or choke the idiot kid out, but REALLY, dude? Of course, that this happened is also ENTIRELY FITTING, because Brockie is laughing at me being all pissed somewhere right now (F you, bro)."

Several photos from the private memorial attended by Brockie's family and friends can be found at YellMagazine.com.

Brockie was found dead in his home in Richmond on March 23. He was 50 years old. GWAR manager Jack Flanagan released a statement saying, "It is with a saddened heart that I confirm my dear friend Dave Brockie, artist, musician, and lead singer of GWAR, passed away at approximately 6:50 p.m. EST Sunday, March 23, 2014 . . . A full autopsy will be performed. He was 50 years old, born August 30, 1963. My main focus right now is to look after my bandmates and his family."

Brockie is the second member of GWAR to die within the past three years. Guitarist Cory Smoot, who played the character Flattus Maximus, died of a heart attack on the band's tour bus in November 2011 at the age of 34.

Brockie said at the time, "I think Cory's death is a big wake-up call for all of us. We all breathed a big sigh of relief when we found out it wasn't a drug overdose, to speak quite frankly. But then to think that he was 34 and died of a heart attack — it's really scary."

According to The Pulse Of Radio, Brockie was the last remaining original member of GWAR, which was founded 30 years ago. The future of the band at this stage is uncertain.

The satirical metal band earned a following for its macabre, over-the-top costumes, offensive lyrics and graphic, gore-soaked shows, in which the band members performed as the descendants of alien warriors who arrived on Earth to enslave and slaughter the human race.

The band released its 13th album, "Battle Maximus", last year.

Guitarist Robby Krieger of THE DOORS will guest on the upcoming solo album from stoner rock legend John Garcia (VISTA CHINO, KYUSS). The CD will be released at the end of July via Napalm Records.

Says Garcia: "To have Robby Krieger from THE DOORS play on my first-ever solo record was surreal. Not only was it surreal, but to be the first artist ever to record in his brand new studio, Horse Latitudes, in Los Angeles made it even more special. I am honored, and humbled by his professionalism and talent and will never forget that experience for the rest of my life... It truly made the song 'Her Bullets Energy' better, not to mention the entire record." Garcia's solo album is being recorded at Thunder Underground studios in Palm Springs, California with producers Harper Hug and Trevor Whatever.

VISTA CHINO is the group comprised of two founding members of the legendary rock band KYUSS — Garcia and Brant Bjork — and guitarist Bruno Fevery.

VISTA CHINO's debut album, "Peace", was released on September 3, 2013 (one day earlier internationally) via Napalm Records. The cover artwork for the CD was created by the renowned California art collective The Date Farmers.

San Francisco Bay Area metallers MACHINE HEAD are seeking to dismiss the lawsuit that was filed against them by the band's former bassist, Adam Duce, claiming that that Duce has "failed to state a claim for federal trademark infringement" and "has failed to state any claim against [MACHINE HEAD's new bassist] Jared MacEachern or [MACHINE HEAD's new record label] Nuclear Blast," both of whom were listed as co-defendants in Adam's original complaint.

As first reported by Courthouse News, Duce sued MACHINE HEAD in January, alleging trademark infringement, breach of partnership agreement and defamation, among other things.

Duce was fired from MACHINE HEAD on February 11, 2013, a few months prior to the band signing a new deal with Nuclear Blast Entertainment.

In MACHINE HEAD's April 2 motion to dismiss Duce's lawsuit, the band's attorney, Dawn M. Coulson of Epps & Coulson, LLP, writes, in part: "This case concerns the claims of Plaintiff Adam Duce ('Plaintiff'), an expelled former partner of Defendant MACHINE HEAD, a California general partnership ('MH' or 'the Band'), for income and royalties associated with the Band's business as a recording act. In addition to the Band, Plaintiff names the individual Band members (including his replacement), the Band's touring company, the Band's managers and the Band's post-expulsion record label. The claims run the gamut from breach of fiduciary duty, breach of partnership agreement, interference with prospective economic advantage, and defamation to unfair competition. Curiously, they also include a claim for trademark infringement under the federal Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. Section 1114(1), despite the fact — judicially admitted by Plaintiff in the Complaint — Plaintiff does not own any of the federally registered trademarks.

"Plaintiff was expelled from the Band on or about February 11, 2013. According to [Duce's] Complaint, MacEachern was hired to replace Plaintiff as bass player in or about June 2013, four (4) months after Plaintiff's expulsion. Even later, the Band signed with record label Nuclear Blast in or about October 2013.

"In the Complaint, Plaintiff alleges that [MACHINE HEAD guitarist/vocalist Robb] Flynn, [the band's manager, co-defendant Joseph W.] Huston and 'the other Band members' (presumably [drummer Dave] McClain and [guitarist Phil] Demmel, since MacEachern was not hired until afterwards), 'sought to expel Plaintiff from the Band prior to entering into a new record deal in order to exclude him from any income to be derived as a result of the deal and to derive greater profit for the remaining Band members.' Plaintiff alleges that 'On information and belief, [Nuclear Blast] supported and aided Flynn, Huston, and the other Band members' efforts to expel Plaintiff from the Band.' He alleges '[i]n or around June 2013, the Band 'replaced' [Plaintiff] on bass and backup vocals with Defendant MacEachern.'

"Plaintiff complains he subsequently received no distributions from the Band or [Head Machine Touring, Inc.] He also complains that Flynn defamed him by allegedly publishing a blog saying that the Band technically fired Plaintiff on February 11, 2013, but that Plaintiff was 'sick of [the Band]' and effectively quit it over a decade before.

"Plaintiff, a former partner to the MACHINE HEAD partnership, 'the Band,' now sues the Band and the other Defendants for federal trademark infringement, alleging that the Band and the other Defendants have used 'a mark identical to MH's federally registered mark without Plaintiff's required consent, for and in connection with Defendants' musical recordings, live shows put on by the Band, and with merchandise including but not limited to clothing and headwear.' These allegations fail, however, because Plaintiff is not the registrant of the MACHINE HEAD trademarks — the Band is. Plaintiff admits as much in the Complaint."

"In the Complaint, only three of Plaintiff's claims are alleged against MacEachern, the Band's replacement bass player, the First Cause of Action for trademark infringement, the Seventh Cause of Action for negligence and the Ninth Cause of Action for unfair competition. All fail and should be dismissed as against MacEachern.

"The First Cause of Action for trademark infringement fails against MacEachern because (1) Plaintiff is not the registrant and (2) no Defendant is alleged to be using the MACHINE HEAD trademarks without the Band's consent.

"The Seventh Cause of Action for negligence fails because the only allegedly negligent actions are those Plaintiff alleges 'resulted in Plaintiff being unceremoniously and publicly 'fired' from the Band….' The elements of negligence are not alleged against MacEachern, and indeed they cannot be, considering the Complaint alleges he was hired by the Band some four (4) months after Plaintiff was expelled.

"In the Complaint, Plaintiff likewise alleges the First Cause of Action for trademark infringement, the Seventh Cause of Action for negligence and the Ninth Cause of Action for unfair competition against Nuclear Blast, the Band's post-expulsion record label. In addition, Plaintiff alleges the Fifth and Sixth Causes of Action for intentional and negligent interference with prospective economic advantage, respectively. These claims also fail, and should be dismissed as against Nuclear Blast.

"The First Cause of Action for trademark infringement fails against Nuclear Blast for the same reasons it fails as to the other Defendants. The Seventh Cause of Action for negligence fails because, again, Nuclear Blast is only alleged to have 'entered into a new record contract with' the Band sometime 'after the expulsion of Plaintiff….' The elements of negligence are not alleged, and the naked allegation that 'On information and belief, [Nuclear Blast] supported and aided Flynn, Huston, and the other Band members' efforts to expel Plaintiff from the Band' does not suffice. No duty, breach, causation or damages proximately caused by Nuclear Blast or can be alleged against Nuclear Blast, and the Seventh Cause of Action should be dismissed.

"The same is true for the Ninth Cause of Action for unfair competition. The naked allegation that 'On information and belief, [Nuclear Blast] supported and aided Flynn, Huston, and the other Band members' efforts to expel Plaintiff from the Band' does not amount to any unlawful, unfair or fraudulent business act or practice. The Ninth Cause of Action should be dismissed as well.

"The most Plaintiff alleges is that '[Nuclear Blast], Flynn and Huston wrongfully and with reckless disregard conspired to expel and then did expel Plaintiff from the Band prior to signing the Band's new record deal in an attempt to preclude Plaintiff from enjoying the profits of the new record deal. Even beyond the fact that only the Band could expel Plaintiff, none of Nuclear Blast's alleged conduct is independently wrongful."

A hearing on MACHINE HEAD's motion to dismiss Duce's lawsuit is scheduled for June 5 at the U.S. District Court in San Francisco, California.

In his original complaint, Duce claimed that although MACHINE HEAD formed a general partnership and a corporation under which each member owned 25 percent, the band's guitarist/vocalist, Robert Flynn, got a larger portion of the band's income.

MACHINE HEAD's 2009 tour, which included dates with METALLICA, grossed more than $2 million. A 2012 Europe tour grossed more than $3 million, according to Duce's complaint.

Flynn wrote about Duce's departure in a "diary entry" on MACHINE HEAD's web site by "directly attacking plaintiff's work ethic," Duce said in the complaint.

"Therein, Flynn stated, inter alia, 'We may have fired Adam on 2-11-13, but Adam quit MACHINE HEAD well over a decade ago. He just never bothered to tell anyone ... but we all knew it.' Flynn went on further in the diary entry, continuing to say about plaintiff, 'No matter how un-happy [sic] or fed up he got, quitting the band would be seen as 'losing' or a 'failure.' Truth be told, he was sick of it. Sick of touring, sick of recording, sick of practicing, sick of looking at album artwork, sick of being-on-a-team-but-never-getting-the-ball, sick of yearning-for-the-honeymoon-to-resume when 20 years deep it never does. Sick of never quite hitting the big-time, sick of carving the niche ... sick of caring.'" (Ellipses in complaint.)

Adam claimed that Flynn's "diary entry was libelous per se in that in contained untrue statements made to third parties that tended to harm [Duce] in his reputation and occupation." Duce added that "Flynn published this diary entry without making a reasonable effort to ascertain the truthfulness of its contents." In addition, "Flynn was not privileged to make such statements in the diary entry. As a direct, proximate result of this diary entry, [Duce] has been damaged in an amount to be proven at trial, but in any event in excess of $1,000,000."

Duce, who still holds interest in the band's partnership and company, claimed that no agreement was ever made about his share of future royalties and profits. He said the other bandmembers "simply kicked him out of the band and presumed he would forget about over two decades of hard work, dedication, and effort he put into the Band." Duce also said his likeness is used on the band's web site and in promotions without his authorization.

Jared MacEachern made his live debut with MACHINE HEAD on June 24, 2013 in Spokane, Washington.

Adam Duce photo above courtesy of FaceCulture.nl

Eagle Rock Entertainment has announced the release of The Pink Floyd & Syd Barrett Story on 2DVD and Digital Video on May 20th. Originally made in 2001, this documentary, presented in Dolby Digital Stereo, is now being presented with additional bonus material.
The Pink Floyd & Syd Barrett Story explores the tragic, yet celebratory life of the late SYD BARRETT, lead guitarist and prominent songwriter of early PINK FLOYD. With contributions from all members of Pink Floyd, as well as managers, friends, and others close to Syd, the documentary traverses the tale of this enigmatic rock legend, from his intelligent, thought-provoking songwriting and indelible stamp on the psychedelic music genre, to his 1968 departure from the band, when his increasingly erratic behavior made his continued participation in the band impossible. This 2DVD set also includes the additional interview Roger Waters On Syd Barrett, and a second disc with bonus uncut interviews with Roger Waters, David Gilmour, Nick Mason, and Richard Wright, and a performance of 'Love You' by GRAHAM COXON.

Pink Floyd was revolutionary, pushing popular music into new cerebral dimensions, and Syd Barrett was an integral part of the band’s sound and lyrics. A charismatic cult figure with a flair for eccentricity, he crafted such unique hits as 'See Emily Play' and 'Arnold Layne', as well as album tracks such as 'Bike' and 'Astronomy Domine'. His use of dissonance, feedback, and distortion in his guitar playing has inspired generations of musicians. After leaving Pink Floyd, he recorded two solo albums before vanishing from music altogether, retiring to his English hometown of Cambridge. Fans and reporters continued to travel there to seek out the reclusive Barrett until his death in 2006, at the age of 60.

At 214 minutes, The Pink Floyd & Syd Barrett Story 2DVD is an in-depth and comprehensive study of this music and cultural icon.