The official lyric video for the song "Alive" from GHOST SHIP OCTAVIUS, the new progressive metal band formed by lead guitarist Matt Wicklund (GOD FORBID, HIMSA, WARREL DANE), drummer Van Williams (NEVERMORE, ASHES OF ARES, PURE SWEET HELL) and vocalist Adōn Fanion, can be seen below.

The band’s sound features technical and groove metal elements, highlighted by Adōn's powerful clean vocals, Van's tasteful rhythms and Matt's melodic and intricate guitar solos.

GHOST SHIP OCTAVIUS has finished writing material for its as-yet-untitled debut full-length album and is currently working with Grammy-winning producer Neil Kernon (NEVERMORE, QUEENSRŸCHE, CANNIBAL CORPSE, HALL & OATES, NILE). In order to get this project off to a great start, GHOST SHIP OCTAVIUS is reaching out to fans to help fund the album by use of popular crowd-funding site Kickstarter. The campaign has been launched and offers pre-sales of the album, merchandise and many other perks, including one-on-one Skype video lessons, guest performances on your band's album, being drawn into the band's album artwork, and more. Pledge here, but hurry, the pledging period ends in 30 days.

Guitarist Christopher Amott (ARMAGEDDON, ex-ARCH ENEMY) last year announced his departure from GHOST SHIP OCTAVIUS in order to focus entirely on making a new ARMAGEDDON album.

The official lyric video for the new song "Disconnect Me" from Montreal, Quebec, Canada-based melodic death metallers THE AGONIST can be seen below.

THE AGONIST earlier in the week announced the addition of singer Vicky Psarakis to the group's ranks. Vicky joins THE AGONIST as the replacement for Alissa White-Gluz, who left the band to focus on her new gig as the frontwoman of ARCH ENEMY.

Comments THE AGONIST in a statement: "We announce that after three albums and countless tours, we officially part ways with vocalist Alissa White-Gluz. We wish Alissa all the best with ARCH ENEMY and her future endeavors.

"It is the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for THE AGONIST! We are thrilled to announce the newest addition to the THE AGONIST family. Please give a warm welcome to very talented vocalist Vicky Psarakis!"

THE AGONIST's third album, "Prisoners", debuted at No. 19 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.

"Prisoners", was released on June 4, 2012 in Europe and June 5, 2012 in North America via Century Media Records. The CD was produced by Christian Donaldson (CRYPTOPSY) and mixed by Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, DARK TRANQUILLITY, SUICIDE SILENCE) and it "picks right up where 2009's 'Lullabies For The Dormant Mind' left off, with soaring melodies over complex metal passages that fans of thinking-man's metal can appreciate," according to a press release.

New Jersey thrash metal veterans OVERKILL will release their new album, "White Devil Armory", in July in North America via eOne Music and in Europe through Nuclear Blast Records. The effort was tracked at Gear Recording and will be mixed by Greg Reely, who also worked on 2012's "The Electric Age".

"White Devil Armory" track listing:

01. Freedom Rings 02. Where There's Smoke...03. Pig04. Amorist05. Down To The Bone06. Bitter Pill07. King Of The Rat Bastards 08. Another Day To Die09. It's All Yours10. In The Name

The cover artwork for "White Devil Armory" can be seen below.

Said OVERKILL in a statement: "We are still working on the new record, but this is gonna be worth the wait, with more old-school, face-melting thrash!"

Speaking to Steppin' Out magazine, OVERKILL vocalist Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth stated about the band's upcoming album: "The new record has a blend of what we've done over the past half decade. I'm noticing it's a more punchy heavy metal record with more dimension than the last record had. Where is it going to end up on the food chain? I really don't know. But my feeling is it's an eclectic collection of moments from us. 'The Electric Age' came across, to me, as kind of a two-dimensional thrash record. This one is punchy but has a whole different bunch of ways to go and things to hear on it."

OVERKILL released a very special limited tour edition of "The Electric Age" in Europe on April 19, 2013 via Nuclear Blast Records. The limited 2CD tour edition included the regular album as well as a four additional live tracks on a bonus CD, recorded at The Metro in Sidney, Australia on September 25, 2010.

"The Electric Age" sold 6,500 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 77 on The Billboard 200 chart.

"Shield Of The Son", a brand new song from resurrected 1990s Florida-based death metallers MASSACRE, can be streamed in the YouTube clip below. The track is taken from the band's long-awaited comeback album, "Back From Beyond", which will be released on March 24 in Europe and April 1 in North America via Century Media Records. The CD was recorded and mixed by Tim Vazquez of CGM Studios in Altamonte Springs, Florida, and features original MASSACRE members Rick Rozz (guitar; ex-MANTAS/DEATH) and Terry Butler (bass; OBITUARY, ex-DEATH/SIX FEET UNDER), as well as Ed Webb (vocals; ex-DIABOLIC/EULOGY) and Mike Mazzonetto (drums; ex-PAIN PRINCIPLE). The cover artwork was created by Toshihiro Egawa (CRYPTOPSY, KRISIUN, DEVOURMENT) and can be seen below.

"Back From Beyond" track listing:

01. The Ancient Ones 02. As We Wait To Die 03. Ascension Of The Deceased 04. Hunter’s Blood 05. Darkness Fell 06. False Revelation 07. Succumb To Rapture 08. Remnants Of Hatred 09. Shield Of The Son 10. The Evil Within 11. Sands Of Time 12. Beast With Vengeance 13. Back From Beyond14. Honor The Fallen

The video for the album's title track, directed by Doug Cook and animated by Nick Johnson and Ryder McLean, can be seen below.

Says Butler: "MASSACRE is very proud of the 'Back From Beyond' video. It has a nice campy horror vibe, yet at the same time is cutting edge, and we think it can connect with a variety of audiences. Doug Cook did an amazing job with this one!!!"

Butler previously said about the album: "MASSACRE is very excited and proud of our new album, 'Back From Beyond'.

"We've worked hard over the past few months and we believe that the old-school and new-school fans will be pleased.

"Ed Webb and Mikey Mazzanetto are great additions to the band and did an amazing job on the album.

"This is Florida death metal at its best!

"We plan on making 2014 a busy year!!!"

The song "As We Wait To Die" can be streamed in the YouTube clip below.

MASSACRE released a seven-inch single, "Condemned To The Shadows", on July 30, 2012. The single, which is available as a regular black-wax version, a transparent wax limited edition and a yellow-wax limited edition, contains two brand new songs — "Succumb To Rapture" and "Back From Beyond" — that were recorded in February 2012 at CGM Studios in Altamonte Springs, Florida with Tim Vazquez at the helm.

The official lyric video for the song "Revelations" from Finnish melodic death metallers INSOMNIUM can be seen below. The track is taken from the band's sixth studio album, "Shadows Of The Dying Sun", which will be released on April 28 in Europe and on April 29 in North America via Century Media Records. All the drums were recorded at studio SF Sound with Kimmo Perkkiö while the rest of the instruments were laid down at studio Korkeakoski with Teemu Aalto. André Alvinzi of Fascination Street Studios took care of the mix, with Svante Forsbäck at Chartmakers overseeing the mastering. The artwork was once again created by Wille Naukkarinen.

"Shadows Of The Dying Sun" track listing:

01. The Primeval Dark 02. While We Sleep 03. Revelations 04. Black Heart Rebellion 05. Lose To Night 06. Collapsing Words 07. The River08. Ephemeral (album version) 09. The Promethean Song 10. Shadows Of The Dying Sun

INSOMNIUM recently released the first song, "Ephemeral", off its forthcoming album. The first track to feature new guitarist Markus Vanhala (also in OMNIUM GATHERUM), who replaced Ville Vänni in 2011, "Ephemeral" was made available digitally in Europe on September 23, 2013 and was accompanied by three bonus tracks — acoustic songs that can be heard in the background of the INSOMNIUM documentary.

INSOMNIUM's last album, "One For Sorrow", was released in October 2011 in North America via Century Media Records. The CD was recorded in Gothenburg, Sweden with sound engineer Daniel Antonsson (also bassist in DARK TRANQUILLITY and guitarist in DIMENSION ZERO) and at Fantom studios in Tempere, Finland, where the album was also mixed by Samu Oittisen.

The official lyric video for the song "Call To Arms" from SINBREED, the German power metal band featuring BLIND GUARDIAN guitarist Marcus Siepen and drummer Frederik Ehmke, can be seen below. The track is taken from SINBREED's sophomore album, "Shadows", which will be released on March 28 in Europe and April 15 in the U.S. via AFM Records.

The track listing for the CD is as follows:

01. Bleed02. Shadows03. Call To Arms04. Reborn05. Leaving The Road06. Far Too Long07. Black Death08. Standing Tall09. London Moon10. Broken Wings

Siepen in 2012 joined SINBREED as a full-time member after previously performing live with the band at a couple of shows, including the ProgPower USA XIII festival in Atlanta, Georgia.

Fan-filmed video footage of SINBREED performing a brand new song, "Reborn", during their ProgPower USA XIII set can be seen below.

SINBREED's debut album, "When Worlds Collide", was released in March 2010 via Ulterium Records. The CD was produced by Flo Laurin, mixed and mastered by Markus Teske (VANDEN PLAS, SYMPHONY X), and it included guest appearances by Joost van den Broek (AFTER FOREVER) and Morten Sandager (MERCENARY) on keyboards, and Thomas Rettke (REDKEY, ex-HEAVEN'S GATE) on vocals. The artwork was created by Felipe Machado Franco (ICED EARTH, AYREON).

SINBREED's brand of power metal is described as a "blistering combination of speed, melodic and aggressive arrangements combined with high and soaring vocals."

SINBREED is:

Herbie Langhans (SEVENTH AVENUE) - VocalsFrederik Ehmke (BLIND GUARDIAN) - DrumsAlexander Schulz - BassFlo Laurin - Guitar, KeyboardsMarcus Siepen (BLIND GUARDIAN) - Guitar

For more information, visit www.sinbreed.com.

"Call To Arms" lyric video:

Dutch female-fronted symphonic metallers WITHIN TEMPTATION have uploaded the second episode in the "Hydra" tour video diary. Check it out below.

WITHIN TEMPTATION's new album, "Hydra", sold around 15,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 16 on The Billboard 200 chart.

WITHIN TEMPTATION's previous CD, "Unforgiving", opened with 12,000 units back in March 2011 to land at No. 50.

"Hydra" first-week chart positions:

#1: Netherlands, Czech Republic#2: Finland, Switzerland#4: Germany, Poland#5: Austria#6: United Kingdom#9: France#11: Portugal#12: Sweden#16: USA#17: Norway#22: Japan#25: Canada#26: Australia#28: Spain

"Hydra" was released in North America on February 4 via Nuclear Blast Entertainment, the new U.S. partnership between Nuclear Blast owner Markus Staiger and former Roadrunner Records A&R chief Monte Conner. The album was made available in several luxury formats. The cover artwork was created by Romano Molenaar ("X-Men", "Batman", "The Unforgiving").

The digital premium album, complete with digi-booklet, was made available on iTunes and includes 18 audio tracks and a music video. The digital premium album features bonus "Evolution Versions" of four new songs, which contain audio commentary from guitarist Robert Westerholt and singer Sharon Den Adel and give you unique access to the development of the songs, their lyrical inspiration and the sound of the initial demos and vocals.

In a recent interview with Ultimate-Guitar.com, WITHIN TEMPTATION vocalist Sharon Den Adel stated about the songwriting process for "Hydra"": "A lot of bands were inspired by the '80s at the time we were writing 'The Unforgiving' album. There was a lot of music based on the '80s coming out and it had a lot of '80s flavors. With this new album, even though we're only a few years further up the road, you can feel that music has changed again. Music is not inspired on the '80s, but more like there are different influences in the music again. Music's always organic, and you feel things are changing comfortably."

She added: "When people asked us after 'The Unforgiving', 'Are you gonna make another 'Unforgiving' album?" we said, 'Of course.' Because we were really full of it in a positive way. We really like the album a lot and still do like it a lot but we really feel there's an '80s feel to the songs. When we started writing this album, again we felt like we were already knowing we were gonna go a different direction also."

"Heroes", the new album from Swedish metallers SABATON, will be released on May 16 via Nuclear Blast Records. The cover artwork for the effort was created by Péter Sallai. A number of bomus tracks will be made available, including cover versions of songs originally written and recorded by METALLICA, BATTLE BEAST and RAUBTIER.

METALLICA - "For Whom The Bell Tolls"

Says SABATON: "All of us are old fans of METALLICA. The choice of the song was difficult, but we all could agree on that one. As an addition, 'For Whom The Bell Tolls' was the first heavy metal song ever performed on a stage by Pär."

BATTLE BEAST - "Out Of Control"

Says SABATON: "BATTLE BEAST was our secret guest at our latest Sabaton Cruise and we all enjoyed watching them perform their songs live. We thought we wanted to support young and upcoming bands and decided to do a cover of them."

RAUBTIER - "En Hjältes Väg"

Says SABATON: "RAUBTIER are our brothers from the north of Sweden. We have played together countless times and in the past, and Thobbe used to be in this band. At a special concert in 2012, Joakim performed this song live together with RAUBTIER and it awoke the idea of doing a cover version. Seeing to the song title it was also a natural choice for our latest album, 'Heroes'."

"Heroes" track listing:

Standard jewel case:

01. Night Witches02. No Bullets Fly03. Smoking Snakes04. Inmate 485905. To Hell And Back06. The Ballad Of Bull07. Resist And Bite08. Soldier Of 3 Armies09. Far From The Fame10. Hearts Of Iron Digipack and U.S. version:

01. Night Witches02. No Bullets Fly03. Smoking Snakes04. Inmate 485905. To Hell And Back06. The Ballad Of Bull07. Resist And Bite08. Soldier Of 3 Armies09. Far From The Fame10. Hearts Of Iron

Bonus tracks:

11. 773412. Man Of War Digital only:

01. Night Witches02. No Bullets Fly03. Smoking Snakes04. Inmate 485905. To Hell And Back06. The Ballad Of Bull07. Resist And Bite08. Soldier Of 3 Armies09. Far From The Fame10. Hearts Of Iron

Bonus tracks:

11. 773412. Man Of War13. For Whom The Bell Tolls Japan:

01. Night Witches02. No Bullets Fly03. Smoking Snakes04. Inmate 485905. To Hell And Back06. The Ballad Of Bull07. Resist And Bite08. Soldier Of 3 Armies09. Far From The Fame10. Hearts Of Iron

Bonus tracks:

11. 773412. Man Of War13. En Hjältes Väg Japan - digital only:

01. Night Witches02. No Bullets Fly03. Smoking Snakes04. Inmate 485905. To Hell And Back06. The Ballad Of Bull07. Resist And Bite08. Soldier Of 3 Armies09. Far From The Fame10. Hearts Of Iron

Bonus tracks:

11. 773412. Man Of War13. En Hjältes Väg14. For Whom The Bell Tolls Earbook:

CD 1

01. Night Witches02. No Bullets Fly03. Smoking Snakes04. Inmate 485905. To Hell And Back06. The Ballad Of Bull07. Resist And Bite08. Soldier Of 3 Armies09. Far From The Fame10. Hearts Of Iron

CD 2 (bonus):

01. 773402. Man Of War03. En Hjältes Väg04. For Whom The Bell Tolls05. Out Of Control

The second "Heroes" trailer can be seen below.

"We had the title in mind since before we even recorded 'Carolus Rex' and we already had ideas for artwork years ago," says SABATON bassist Pär Sundström. "We had a few different ones to choose from, but when we saw this one, we knew it was the right one for this album."

"Heroes" was recorded at The Abyss, the recording studio in Pärlby outside Ludvika, Sweden owned and operated by record producer and musician Peter Tägtgren (HYPOCRISY, PAIN).

"[Peter] still has some aces in his sleeves that we are sure will lift the new album," says Sundström.

SABATON played its first show with new drummer Hannes Van Dahl on November 16, 2013 at the Metal Hammer Paradise festival in Germany.

Regarding their decision to enlist Hannes Van Dahl, SABATON said in a statement: "For some time, there has been rumors about Robban [Bäck] coming back soon, or that Snowy [Shaw] would fill in for a while longer, or even take Robban's place permanently behind the drums.

"To put an end to these rumors we now present our new full-time member in SABATON: Hannes Van Dahl.

"Hannes has previously played in EVERGREY, which we have toured with in the past, and he has also worked side by side with us as drum technician for Snowy during his time in SABATON."

SABATON will return to the U.S. and Canada in April as direct support to American metallers ICED EARTH on their "Worldwide Plagues" North American tour. Opening each show on the six-week trek will be Dutch metallers REVAMP (featuring NIGHTWISH singer Floor Jansen).

SABATON's last album, "Carolus Rex", was released on May 22, 2012 via Nuclear Blast Records. The lyrics for the CD, which was made available in both English and Swedish, deal with the Swedish Empire (referring to the Kingdom of Sweden between 1561 and 1721).

SABATON in 2012 parted ways with guitarists Oskar Montelius and Rikard Sundén, drummer Daniel Mulback and keyboardist Daniel Mÿhr.

"Metal From Hell", the legendary debut album of the U.S. heavy metal cult act SATAN'S HOST, which except guitar virtuoso Patrick Evil, features JAG PANZER and TITAN FORCE singer Harry Conklin (a.k.a. Leviathan Thisiren), will be reissued by Skol Records. This "ultimate reissue" will not only include "Metal From Hell" tracks remastered from the original tapes for the first time ever, but also six tracks from the mystical "unreleased album" from 1987, titled "Midnight Wind". Skol Records' CD, which will be limited to only 666 copies, will include deluxe booklet with many previously unseen photos, original artworks of both "Metal From Hell" and "Midnight Wind", and all lyrics. The album will be released on April 25 and will have its official premiere at the Keep It True festival in Germany (which is co-headlined by JAG PANZER).

The title track of the "Metal From Hell" reissue is available for streaming using the SoundCloud widget below.

In other news, SATAN'S HOST recently recorded cover version of the GRIM REAPER classic "See You In Hell", which will be featured on another Skol Records' release, "Harder Than Steel - The Official Keep It True Tribute Album" CD compilation, that will also include cover versions of heavy metal classics performed by acts such as ATTACKER, CRYSTAL VIPER, OSTROGOTH, DEADLY BLESSING, JACK STARR'S BURNING STARR and WITCH CROSS. The song was produced by Bart Gabriel (SACRED STEEL, JACK STARR'S BURNING STARR, MORTICIAN), who also remastered mentioned "Metal From Hell" CD reissue.

SATAN'S HOST's eleventh studio album, "Virgin Sails", was released on November 18, 2013 via Moribund Cult Records on CD. The vinyl version was made available via High Roller Records in January. The album was once again recorded at Flatline Audio with producer Dave Otero (CATTLE DECAPITATION, ALLEGAEON, CEPHALIC CARNAGE) and features cover artwork by Joe Petagno (MOTÖRHEAD, MARDUK).

Short previews of the new songs "BANG!" and "C'Est La Vie" from veteran Swiss rockers GOTTHARD are available below. Both tracks are taken from the band's new album, "BANG!", which will be released on April 7 through PIAS. GOTTHARD has been at home touring the globe for over 20 years throughout Europe, North and South America and Asia on the back of 14 studio and live albums. They have collected multiple gold and platinum awards on the way, selling almost three million records and appearing at the biggest, most important festivals on the map of rock. The dynamic boogie groove of the "BANG!" title track is also new ground for the band, reflecting their unbridled energy and pure confidence. Also worthy of mention is a duet with the unknown (so far) American vocalist Melody Tibbits on a ballad entitled "Maybe". As is the blues excursion the band takes in "Spread Your Wings". The final "Thank You" is a veritable epic complete with orchestra and goosebumps, flowing against radio friendly convention to a length of more than ten minutes. Written as a tribute to the departed mother of guitarist Leo Leoni, it serves as a homage to mothers everywhere.

The first single from the new album is "Feel What I Feel", a perfect demonstration of the group's talent for combining melodic vocals with strong guitar hooks. These songs are set against a background of classic GOTTHARD rock tunes like "Get Up 'N' Move On", "Jump The Gun" and "My Belief", which traditionally grace every album by the Swiss combo. All told, "BANG!" presents a compelling mix that is sure to take its rightful place in the proud legend of GOTTHARD.

Recorded and produced by Charlie Bauerfeind and GOTTHARD's own Leo Leoni at Yellow House Studios in Lugano in the Swiss canton of Tessin, "BANG!" was then mixed at the Dutch Wisseloord Studios (Mick Jagger, Paul McCartney, Tina Turner) by Ronald Prent, who has managed to keep the GOTTHARD sound but transport them into 2014. No wonder, after all Prent has worked in the studio with bands such as the SCORPIONS, 3 DOORS DOWN, DEF LEPPARD and WITHIN TEMPTATION.

Apart from a standard jewel case, the album will be available in digipack version, with two bonus tracks and also on vinyl.

"BANG!" track listing:

01. Let Me In Katie02. BANG!03. Get Up 'N' Move On04. Feel What I Feel05. C'Est La Vie06. Jump The Gun07. Spread Your Wings08. I Won't Look Down09. My Belief10. Maybe11. Red On A Sleeve12. What You Get13. Mr. Ticket Man14. Thank You

Bonus tracks (digipack/LP edition)

15. I Want It All16. You Can't Stop Me

GOTTHARD's last album, "Firebirth", entered the chart Switzerland at position No. 1 — the 14th time that a GOTTHARD CD has topped the Swiss chart in the group's career so far. In addition, the album landed at No. 9 on the German Media Control chart.

"Firebirth" was released in June 2012 via Nuclear Blast/Warner Music. The CD was produced at the band's own Yellow House Studios in Lugano, Switzerland, with guitarist/songwriter Leo Leoni and Paul Lani (who has previously worked with GOTTHARD on several of their earlier albums, including "G-Spot" and "Homerun") at the helm.

"Firebirth" marked GOTTHARD's first release with singer Nic Maeder, who was born in Lausanne, Switzerland, lived in Melbourne, Australia and grew up between Switzerland and "Down Under."

GOTTHARD's previous vocalist, Steve Lee, was killed on October 5, 2010 in what has been described as a freak road accident in Nevada.

Professionally filmed video footage of LAMB OF GOD's August 1 performance at the Resurrection Fest in Viveiro, Spain can be seen at this location. A few of the clips are available below.

LAMB OF GOD recently entered into a worldwide distribution deal with Specticast (LED ZEPPELIN's "Celebration Day", Paul McCartney's "Rock Show") for its Don Argott-directed ("Last Days Here", "Art Of The Steal", "School Of Rock") feature film "As The Palaces Burn". Filming for the movie began in 2012 and concluded in March of 2013. "As The Palaces Burn", which should not be confused with the making-of documentary packaged with the recent re-release of the 2003 LAMB OF GOD album of the same name, was conceived to be a documentary focused on the power of music and its impact on cultures around the world and its ability to bring together people of all nationalities regardless of religious or political differences. After a worldwide casting call, filming took place in Colombia, Venezuela, Israel, India, and the United States. As filming reached its conclusion, the documentary was forced to take a major turn when the band's lead singer, Randy Blythe, was arrested in the Czech Republic and charged with the murder of a fan in June 2012. Granted unique access to Blythe's saga, Argott's filming covered Blythe's 38-day imprisonment in Prague, his release and the band's return to live performances, and finally Blythe's trial for murder in Prague in February 2013.

Video footage of the ANNIHILATOR guitarist/mainman Jeff Waters performing at this year's Musikmesse fair, which was held March 12-15 in Frankfurt, Germany, can be seen below.

ANNIHILATOR's latest album, "Feast", was re-released as a limited edition featuring re-recorded ANNIHILATOR classics on CD and the full Wacken Open Air festival show on DVD, all in a special Ecolbook version with a new 3D cover!

This edition contains:

* The new album "Feast" in a CD-sized book with extra pages in the booklet* The 15-song bonus CD "Re-Kill" with newly recorded ANNIHILATOR classics* Plus a never-seen-before live DVD filmed at last year‘s Wacken Open Air, when the band opened the festival relentlessly regardless of the blistering heat!

* Not to mention a brand new 3D cover taking over where the original "Feast" cover left us. Which means: More zombies, and they are coming closer!

The "Feast" Ecolbook version was made available in U.S. on March 11.

ANIHILATOR's 14th studio album, "Feast", was released in August 2013 to critical acclaim and reached the charts in several countries, among them Germany (#20), Finland (#17), Switzerland (#36) and France (#76).

"Feast" sold around 800 copies in the United States in its first week of release.

In a recent interview with Ghost Cult Magazine, Jeff Waters stated about "Feast": "As an artist, you're sometimes lucky when it all comes together, be it painting, singing or whatever. Sometimes you want to do something good and when you're busy with it, you seem to hit the nail on the head. When you listen back, it doesn't contain your best work. Sometimes it just works. Bands like IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST, SLAYER and also we in ANNIHILATOR have great records and we have our share of not-so-good records. Different times, different places, you know. Maybe we were lucky with 'Feast' and maybe we were inspired. A lot of it comes from that my partner in ANNIHILATOR, singer/guitarist Dave Padden, said that we should take a break for three years from writing music and focus on other things. We did a lot of touring, I worked in my studio, give guitar clinics for Gibson and Epiphone and we played the 70000 Tons Of Metal cruise, all these cool things. The break breathed a lot of new life in the ANNIHILATOR music and that's probably where a lot of the inspiration came from."

Video footage of the new BLACK LABEL SOCIETY guitarist Dario Lorina performing at this year's Musikmesse fair, which was held March 12-15 in Frankfurt, Germany, can be seen below.

Touring for over a span of seven years since age sixteen, first with late WARRANT singer Jani Lane and in more recent years with LIZZY BORDEN, Dario Lorina released his first solo recording, entitled simply "Dario Lorina", on September 10, 2013 via Shrapnel Records.

Growing up listening to guitarists such as Randy Rhoads, Paul Gilbert, George Lynch and Eddie Van Halen, Dario's music harkens back to the glory days of high-caliber shred guitar, the genre of which Shrapnel Records was a founding force.

Dario Lorina's debut solo CD reveals a guitarist brimming with extreme musical ability. This guitarist brings more diverse influences into play than the average neo-classical riff monger. While technically proficient like all of the label's guitar instrumentalists, Dario's CD isn't just about shredding. It's an American guitar instrumental album having more in common with riffs reminiscent of Paul Gilbert, George Lynch and Eddie Van Halen than the European influence of guitarists such as Yngwie Malmsteen.

Phil Campbell from MOTÖRHEAD had this to say, "I think Dario Lorina is one Amazing guitar player! Having known him for many years, he never ceases to amaze me every time we hang out and jam! He blew me away when he played with us in Vegas. A true talent and an amazingly nice guy."

Dario has his own signature guitar model with Lâg Guitars, founded in 1980 and headquartered in Bedarieux, France.

BLACK LABEL SOCIETY recently amicably parted ways with longtime guitarist Nick Catanese.

POISON frontman Bret Michaels will release his new solo single, "A Beautiful Soul", digitally on March 31, with a video to follow on April 2.

Are you in need of a little re-invention or re-invigoration? Need a little more passion and drive in your life? Stemming from fans who were inspired by Bret's interview with Jetset magazine and reading everything he has gone through, get ready for a very special event taking place on April 2 by logging on to Oprah.com to watch a live taping of "Oprah's Lifeclass" featuring teacher, legendary singer/songwriter, lifelong diabetic, philanthropist and entrepreneur Bret Michaels who will be, through personal stories of both his and your own helping to teach you about yourself and how to get back to where you want to be, tips to enhance your life and passion for the most awesome aspects of your life. Dealing with adversity to live a better life through the voice of positivity.

Bret Michaels is a multiplatinum global superstar who has turned his passion for music into a multi-faceted brand that encompasses record breaking touring sales, reality TV stardom, legendary songs that have sold over 32 million records, product endorsements as well as being a devoted philanthropist, all supported and followed by three generations of loyal fans.

Rising to fame as the front man of POISON, one of rock's most iconic and enduring bands, he helped define the rock-n-roll scene on the Sunset Strip. POISON's massive success includes selling over 30 million records worldwide and numerous hit singles. Bret's solo career has charted its own course with multiple solo albums. His last album, "Custom Built", topped the charts, reaching #1 on Billboard's Hard Rock list. His new CD "Bret Michaels: Jammin With Friends" was released in June 2013 and features a myriad of legendary artists, who just happen to be great friends of Bret's. The album contributors comprise a who's who list, including Joe Perry (AEROSMITH), Loretta Lynn, Jimmy Buffett, Ace Frehley (KISS), Michael Anthony (VAN HALEN) and members of LYNYRD SKYNYRD, to name a few.

Fan-filmed video footage of CORROSION OF CONFORMITY's entire performance at this year's Hammerfest, which was held March 13-16 at Hafan y Mor Holiday Park, Caernarfonshire and Merionethshire, Wales, can be seen below.

CORROSION OF CONFORMITY recently spent time in the studio recording the follow-up to the well-received self-titled record issued via Candlelight Records in late February 2012, the reissue of their "Eye For An Eye" debut, and the released Scion A/V EP "Megalodon". The forthcoming CD, untitled at this time, will again feature the trio of vocalist/bassist Mike Dean, guitarist Woodroe Weatherman, and drummer Reed Mullin.

The initial work on the new album found the band not long out of the recording studio, having recently completed their "Megalodon" EP. The special EP was included free to all customers to the band's official webstore. Dean said: "The EP was written, recorded, and released in two months' time. It really challenged us in a good way."

Formed in Raleigh in 1982, CORROSION OF CONFORMITY quickly transformed heavy music. Politically charged and socially aware, the band has influenced countless others and today remains humble about their accomplishments. With over 1.1 million albums sold in the United States, the band continues to find new fans via nonstop touring.

On February 25, Norwegian/American hard rockers TNT performed at the studios of Norway's public television network NRK as a part of a series showcasing Norwegian musicians. Check out footage of the performance at NRK.no.

TNT played its first official reunion show with singer Tony Harnell on January 17 at Gregers Live in Hamar, Norway.

Harnell confirmed his reunion with TNT in October 2013, explaining in a statement: "After much discussion and lots of soul searching, I'm happy to officially announce that I'll be back behind the microphone with TNT.

"I'm very proud of all we accomplished over the years and proud to have written and recorded all those great songs with my brother from another mother, Ronni Le Tekrø.

"Sometimes it's just time to give the fans what they're asking for.

"2014 is the 25th anniversary of the successful 'Intuition' album and we thought it would be a good time to get out and relaunch this little machine for you guys!

"Can't wait to see you all on tour!"

In August 2013, TNT parted ways with its frontman of the past seven years, British vocalist Tony Mills (ex-SHY). He explained in a statement: "Maybe we did 500 shows or something like that, but not many out of Norway.

"It has been the most prolific live period in my career, and when I felt the stagnancy and the lack of desire to grow and develop any further, I knew my time was done with the band.

"I don't think it's sensible to expect new art from the band after thirty years, just a lot of re-living the past and reconstructions of old albums and performances.

"None of us are getting any younger, but I have a great desire to not stop creativity in my life. I hate wasting days and singing songs from the past to satisfy old fans.

"Nostalgia wasn't doing it for me.

"We were never close as friends or anything like that, so there is no great loss, and I have no doubt they will reform the original lineup and just do the whole thing all over again. I wish them good luck on that. I have other releases to come that excite me much more than that."

Harnell rejoined TNT on stage for their 30th-anniversary concert on June 2, 2012 at the Clarion Hotel in Trondheim, Norway. The group performed a special setlist while accompanied by the Trondheim Symphony Orchestra (Trondheim Symfoniorkester). Also making a special appearance with the band was TNT's original singer, Dag Ingebrigtsen.

After leaving TNT in 2006, Harnell was replaced by Mills, who has since appeared on three studio albums from the band: 2007's "The New Territory", 2008's"Atlantis" and 2010's "A Farewell To Arms".

Harnell's final release as a member of TNT was the "Live in Madrid" DVD, which came out in September 2006 via MTM Music. The set, which was filmed on April 1, 2006 in Madrid, Spain, was accompanied by an 82-minute audio CD plus booklet liner notes from Harnell about his work with the group as well as an additional tour documentary by Darren Paltrowitz.

Photo credit: Kjell Solstad

According to The Pulse Of Radio, the battle rages on between Paul Stanley and the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame who have finally decided to induct KISS' founding members and classic lineup, Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss in its 2014 class. Stanley posited an open message on KissOnline.com to counter Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Foundation CEO Joel Peresman's explanation to Billboard, as to why the Rock Hall is inducting KISS' classic ‘70s lineup — and only that lineup.

Peresman explained that the decision making process is decided by the Rock Hall's nominating committee "as well as an adjunct group of scholars and historians… This isn't chemistry or physics; it's not an exact science. Sometimes there's an entire body of work up until (the artists) are inducted, other times it's a specific period of time that established the band as who they are. With KISS, there wasn't one person here who didn't agree that the reason KISS was nominated and is being inducted was because of what was established in the '70s with Ace, with Peter, with Paul and Gene. That's what put them on that map."

Peresman touched upon why current members, Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer, are not eligible for induction: "(KISS) is a unique situation where you have artists who wear makeup as part of what the band's about. (Singer and Thayer) are fine musicians who… basically have the same makeup and are the same characters that Ace and Peter started. It's not like they created these other characters with different makeup and playing different songs. They took the persona of characters that were created by Ace and Peter."

Paul Stanley's response to Peresman's statement as posted on KissOnline.com:

"The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame continues to attempt to restore its questionable credibility and glimpses behind the facade with nonsense and half truths.

"The truth is Joel Peresman and the rest of the decision makers refused to consider the induction of ANY former KISS members and specifically the late Eric Carr and Bruce Kulick who were both in the band through multi-platinum albums and worldwide tours and DIDN'T wear makeup.

"There is no getting around the reality that the Hall Of Fame's favoritism and preferential treatment towards artists they like goes as far as ASKING the GRATEFUL DEAD how many members THEY wanted the hall to induct and following their directive while also including a songwriter who was never in the actual band.

"Let's just accept the truth as it is and move on."

Paul Stanley told The Pulse Of Radio that for the April 10 induction ceremonies in Brooklyn, the Rock Hall was unbending in its decision to ignore the other members of KISS that joined following Peter Criss and Ace Frehley's respective departures.

"Bringing up the idea of inducting other members other than the original four, which is a very valid argument considering that there are people that played on multi-platinum albums and played for millions of people and were very important to the continuation of this band," he said. "The fact that when this was brought up, it was shut down as a non-starter. I don't appreciate that as somebody who is a self-appointed expert."

Polish death metal veterans VADER will release their new album, "Tibi Et Igni" (a Latin phrase which translates to "For You And Fire"), on May 30 via Nuclear Blast. The follow-up to 2011's "Welcome To The Morbid Reich" was recorded at Hertz Studio in Bialystok, Poland with producers Wojtek and Slawek Wiesawski. The artwork was handled this time by a true legend of visuals, Joe Petagno (MOTÖRHEAD). Commented VADER mainman Piotr "Peter" Wiwczarek: "Joe is a legend! Not just because he created MOTÖRHEAD logo or breathtaking artworks for many outstanding albums. Joe is over all times and his imagination touches the Hell itself…. And this is enough reason to ask him for painting 'a Hellfire' for VADER's new music. He accepted it and… made me so proud!" Joe Petagno added: "They have been on my 'get in touch' list for years. Finally we managed it and for a killer album very appropriately titled: 'Tibi Et Igni'." "Tibi Et Igni" track listing: 01. Go To Hell02. Where Angels Weep03. Armada On Fire04. Triumph Of Death05. Hexenkessel06. Abandon All Hope07. Worms Of Eden08. The Eye Of The Abyss09. Light Reaper10. The End

Digipak Bonus:

11. Necropolis12. Des Satans Neue Kleider

Bonus 7" Vinyl:

Side A: NecropolisSide B: Przeklęty Na Wieki (Cursed Eternally) "Tibi Et Igni" will be made available as a standard jewelcase CD, digipak (with 2 bonus tracks), as colored vinyl with a bonus seven-inch EP (including 2 bonus tracks) and exclusively at Nuclear Blast mailorder as a limited digipak edition with a signed VADER tourbook.

VADER will release a special seven-inch single containing two tracks from "Tibi Et Igni". The single is titled "Go To Hell" and includes the following songs: Side A: "Where Angels Weep"Side B: "Triumph Of Death" The song "Where Angels Weep" will also be available digitally.

The vinyl and the digitally version will be released on April 18 via Nuclear Blast.

You can pre-order the single (red, white and black vinyl) at this location. VADER's forthcoming effort will mark the recording debut of British drummer James Stewart (DIVINE CHAOS), who replaced Pawel "Paul" Jaroszewicz in 2011.

VADER's latest album, "Welcome To The Morbid Reich", was released in Europe on August 12, 2011 and in North America on September 13, 2011 via Nuclear Blast Records. The effort was recorded at Hertz Studio in Bialystok, Poland and features the cover artwork of Zbigniew Bielak (DESTRÖYER 666, WATAIN). The band laid down a total of 12 songs for the CD, which was mixed and mastered in May 2011.

This year marks the 40th Anniversary of rock and roll giants KISS and in true KISS fashion, the band plan to make 2014 the biggest and loudest, non-stop rock and roll party of the century.

Rock legends KISS were the first signing to Neil Bogart's newly formed Casablanca Records label after he saw and recognized their talent and showmanship during their spectacular performance at a showcase concert at New York City's Le Tang's Ballet Studio in 1973, offering them a contract on the spot. Four decades after releasing their self-titled, major label debut, KISS will be inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in April, proof of the unparalleled devotion and loyalty of the KISS Army to the "Hottest Band in the World" as they rallied together to have the band included in this year's induction ceremony.

Having earned 28 U.S. gold albums along with 40 million U.S. and 100 million in world sales, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, with longtime members guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer, are stronger than ever with a legacy that continues to grow, generation after generation. Their last album, "Monster", proved that they are still at the top of their game with impressive sales and topping the charts worldwide debuting at No. 3 in the U.S. on the Billboard 200 best-selling albums chart and Top 10 in twenty other countries.

To celebrate their incredible 40-year recording career and their upcoming, long-overdue induction to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, Universal Music Enterprises (UMe) will kick off the celebration on April 1, 2014 with the first batch of 10 individual KISS remastered albums on 180-gram heavyweight vinyl with 18 more vinyl titles coming through the first half of 2014. In May, fans can look forward to a 2-CD "Kiss 40" compilation with one track from every major album release, live selections and an unreleased demo from 1977. And finally, starting today, the definitive KISS vinyl box set, "Kissteria - The Ultimate Vinyl Road Case", featuring 34 KISS LPs — including titles never before issued on vinyl, six exclusive albums to the box set and a plethora of collectibles only available in "Kissteria" will be available exclusively for D2C pre-order at Go to www.kissteria.kissonline.com.

Millions of people around the world originally discovered KISS when they brought home an album and put it on their turntable for the first time. Now, those original KISS albums will be available remastered and on 180 gram heavyweight vinyl prior to KISS' induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.

A new compilation, "Kiss 40", a 2-CD set featuring forty tracks spanning KISS' incredible forty-year recording career. This set includes one track from every major album release (studio, "Alive" and hits collections) plus three live selections from the 2000 era and features the band's biggest songs including rock and roll anthems such as "Detroit Rock City", "Love Gun", "Beth", "Rock And Roll All Nite", "Psycho Circus", "Forever", "I Was Made For Lovin' You", "Lick It Up", "Heaven's On Fire" and "Hell Or Hallelujah". First time commercial CD release live recordings of "Deuce" (from 2004 tour), "Cold Gin" (from 2009 "Alive 35" tour), "Crazy Crazy Nights" (from 2010 "Sonic Boom Over Europe" tour) and the previously unreleased 1977 demo of "Reputation" round out the set for the KISS Army.

And for a ultimate KISS collector, with only 1000 copies being produced worldwide, "Kissteria - The Ultimate Vinyl Road Case" is a highly-collectible vinyl road case box set featuring 34 KISS LPs including nineteen studio albums, all five of the "Alive" releases, the four original KISS solo albums, each with exact replicas of the original inserts, plus six exclusive vinyl titles that will not be made available individually. All albums are pressed onto audiophile 180-gram vinyl and are newly remastered from the ultra-high definition Direct Stream Digital transfers from original analog tapes to bring out maximum fidelity of these iconic albums.

Exclusive "Kissteria" extras include eleven 11"x17" archival posters, including the band's very first promo poster; a KISS vinyl cleaning cloth; a KISS turntable mat; a set of KISS dominoes; four band lithographs highlighting four decades of the band; and a certificate of authenticity displaying the limited edition number for each of the individual box sets.

Forty years ago KISS released their eponymous debut album, which would propel the band to the top of the rock and roll hierarchy where they have reigned for the past four decades making the KISS legacy a global brand with more than 3,000 licensed merchandise products, including a recent partnership with the Arena Football League as owners of the Anaheim-based expansion team LA KISS.

KISS Vinyl

Release date: April 1, 2014

* Alive!* Animalize* Destroyer* Dressed To Kill* Dynasty* Hotter Than Hell* KISS* Lick It Up* Revenge* Unmasked

Release date: May 6, 2014

* Asylum* Creatures Of The Night* Love Gun* MTV Unplugged* Psycho Circus *

Release date: May 27, 2014

* Rock And Roll Over* Alive III* Music From The Elder (first vinyl release in concept album sequence)* Crazy Nights* Hot In The Shade* Alive: The Millennium Concert ** Carnival of Souls: The Final Sessions *

Release date: June 24, 2014

* Alive II* Ace Frehley* Gene Simmons* Peter Criss* Paul Stanley

* First Time on Vinyl

"Kiss 40"

Unless indicated, all selections are album versions

CD 1

01. Nothin To Lose02. Let Me Go, Rock 'N' Roll03. C'mon and Love Me04. Rock And Roll All Nite (Live)05. God Of Thunder (Demo)06. Beth07. Hard Luck Woman08. Reputation (Demo) (previously unreleased)09. Christine Sixteen10. Shout It Out Loud (Live)11. Strutter '7812. You Matter To Me (Peter Criss)13. Radioactive (Gene Simmons)14. New York Groove (Ace Frehley)15. Hold Me, Touch Me (Paul Stanley)16. I Was Made For Lovin' You (Single Edit)17. Shandi18. A World Without Heroes19. I Love It Loud20. Down On Your Knees21. Lick It Up22. Heaven's On Fire

CD 2

01. Tears Are Falling02. Reason To Live03. Let's Put The X In Sex04. Forever (Remix)05. God Gave Rock 'N' Roll To You II06. Unholy (Live)07. Do You Love Me? (MTV Unplugged)08. Room Service (Live)09. Jungle (Radio Edit)10. Psycho Circus11. Nothing Can Keep Me From You12. Detroit Rock City (Live)13. Deuce (Live 2004) (previously unreleased commercially)14. Firehouse (Live - 1999/2000)15. Modern Day Delilah16. Cold Gin (Live 2009) (previously unreleased commercially)17. Crazy Crazy Nights (Live 2010) (previously unreleased commercially)18. Hell Or Hallelujah

"Kissteria - The Vinyl Road Case"

Custom ANVIL Road Case to house 34 KISS LPs and a plethora of extras.

* KISS* Hotter Than Hell* Dressed To Kill - Includes Embossed Front & Back Jacket Covers* Alive! - Includes 8 Page Color Booklet* Destroyer* Rock And Roll Over - Includes Sticker Sheet* Love Gun - Includes Paper Gun with "Bang" Sheet* Alive II - Includes Tattoo Sheet & 8 Page Color Booklet* Ace Frehley (Solo Album) - Includes "Ace" Interlocking Poster* Gene Simmons (Solo Album) - Includes "Gene" Interlocking Poster* Peter Criss (Solo Album) - Includes "Peter" Interlocking Poster* Paul Stanley (Solo Album) - Includes "Paul" Interlocking Poster* Dynasty - 22" x 33" Poster* Unmasked - 22" x 33" Poster* Music From The Elder - First Vinyl Release in Concept Album Sequence* Creatures Of The Night* Lick It Up* Animalize* Asylum* Crazy Nights* Hot In The Shade* Revenge* Alive III* MTV Unplugged - Includes 24" x 24" Poster* Carnival of Souls: The Final Sessions - First Vinyl Pressing Ever * Psycho Circus - First Vinyl Pressing Ever will include a 12"x12" Lenticular Cover* Alive: The Millennium Collection - First Vinyl Pressing Ever* Monster

Exclusive vinyl titles for the Road Case:

* Double Platinum - Includes Embossed front & back jacket covers + Embossed platinum award insert* Greatest Kiss - Includes First Vinyl Pressing Ever. Will combine all exclusive tracks used worldwide into one package* Killers - Includes First U.S. Release Ever. Will combine both Japan and Australia track lists into one package* You Wanted The Best, You Got The Best* Smashes, Thrashes & Hits* Kiss Symphony: Alive IV

Exclusive Bonus Items for Vinyl Box:

* Eleven 11"x17" Archival Posters in a poster tube:* First Band Promo Poster* Hotel Diplomat Concert Poster* "Asylum" Promo Poster* "Lick It Up" Promo Poster* KISS 1984 Promo Poster* "Alive III" Promo Poster* "You Wanted The Best, You Got The Best" Promo Poster* "Smashes, Thrashes & Hits" Promo Poster* "MTV Unplugged" Promo Poster* Live 1996 Tour Poster* "Psycho Circus" Promo Poster* KISS Vinyl Cleaning Cloth* KISS Turntable Mat* KISS Dominoes* Four Band Photo Lithographs* Certificate of Authenticity with Exclusive Box Number

Los Angeles’ MODERN DAY ESCAPE announced through their Facebook page that they were breaking up; however the band did not inform drummer Sandra Alvarenga as she found out about it through the social media site.
The band’s breakup post reads:

“Dear beloved fans and friends alike,

Since 2006 MDE has written four killer rock albums, met some great people, played some amazing venues, traveled different countries, shared the stage with some amazing bands and had some of the most diehard fans a band could ask for, we cannot be thankful enough for all the memories and good times.

But all good things must come to a PAUSE.

We regret to inform our fans we will be taking an official hiatus from the music industry as the group Modern Day Escape until further notice.

Sometimes "Life can be a bitch."

See you soon,

MDE”

Alvarenga posted this comment below the posting:

“Hahaha oh because we've all talked about this? We all made this choice? I don't ever recall any of you guys telling me this. Wow. Thanks guys. I'm gonna go make music with people who want to then. I'm furious.”

London, England-based death metal mob COLLAPSE have confirmed former INCOMA frontman Harry Watson as their new vocalist, following the departure of singer Duncan Wilkinson in 2013.
"I'm stoked to have been offered the opportunity to front Collapse. Craig Daws (SACRED MOTHER TONGUE) encouraged me to go for the auditions and knowing the high standard other singers would be bringing to the table, I wasn't sure I'd get the job. But since joining, things have been moving at such an awe inspiring speed and work is underway for the new album." - Harry Watson
Collapse have unveiled a new recording of their track 'The Cursed' which they are offering as a free download on their Bandcamp page. Listen to the track below:

The Cursed by Collapse

The new frontman will make his live debut soon, with new dates being firmed up, Collapse have already been confirmed for Out Of The Ashes and Alt-Fest later this year. Updates to follow.

LOATH is a relatively fresh band from Finland. The band was founded early 2013 and they entered to record their debut album Total Peace at Drunkhouse Studios in the fall. The album was recorded, mixed and mastered by K. Lehtinen. Loath's music can be described like crust with a twist of grindcore and doom.

The group consists of drummer L, bassist M, vocalist/guitarist E and vocalist/guitarist V.

Total Peace will be released March 21st worldwide by the Finnish record label Inverse Records.
Total Peace tracklisting:

‘Humanity’
‘Masochist Karma’
‘Psychic Leech’
‘Irstas Ääretön Tyhjyys’
‘Sect’
‘Shortcut To Heavenly Bliss’
‘Xeroxed’
‘The Commong God’
‘Slave’s Mouth’
‘Live Through Me’
For more info visit Facebook.

Long-running US rock legends TOTO and Eagle Rock Entertainment have announced an April 29th release date for the band's 35th Anniversary Tour - Live In Poland. The title will be available in configurations that include 2CD, DVD, Blu-ray, and a deluxe edition featuring all formats with a 60-page book.

Filmed on June 25, 2013 in Lodz, Poland, the offering captures the band in the midst of a standing-room-only European tour. The two-hour plus performance features Toto's hit stocked repertoire alongside other favorites.

The 35th Anniversary Tour - Live In Poland release captures Toto's European tour that hit 29 cities staging successful concerts Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, France, Netherlands, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland. Toto World Tour 2013 featured Luke, David Paich, Steve Porcaro on keyboards, and singer Joseph Williams, who sang the hits 'Pamela' and 'Stop Loving You' on the worldwide platinum release The Seventh One (1988). Williams is also featured on the platinum certified Fahrenheit (1986), Toto XX (1998), the track 'Bottom of Your Soul' on Falling In Between (2006), and the multi-platinum release Past to Present 1977-1990 issued in 1990.

Tracklisting:

Intro
Medley: 'On The Run' / 'Child's Anthem' / 'Goodbye Eleanor'
'Goin' Home'
'Hydra'
'St. George And The Dragon'
'I'll Be Over You'
'It's A Feeling'
'Rosanna'
'Wings Of Time'
'Falling In Between'
'I Won't Hold You Back'
'Pamela'
'99'
'The Muse'
'White Sister'
'Better World'
'Africa'
'How Many Times'
'Stop Loving You'
'Hold The Line'
'Home Of The Brave'

The set also includes behind-the-scenes bonus content.

Watch 'Hold The Line' below:
Toto has revealed plans for 2014 that deliver what fans have been waiting years for. The band will record a new studio album planned for release in 2015, their first since Falling In Between (2006). Keyboardist and founding member David Paich recently shared, "The repertoire is coming together so naturally it is as though we never took a break from creating as Toto in the studio. For the fans who have been waiting patiently and continually showing the band support and love over the last decade or so, this one's for you. Collectively we can't wait to share these recordings with The World."

This April, they return to Japan for a seven show headlining sold-out arena tour that takes them through Nagoya, Osaka, Tokyo, Sendai and Sopporo. In August and September, Toto will hit the road as co-headliners with MICHAEL MCDONALD, for their most comprehensive North American tour in years.

Few ensembles in the history of recorded music have individually or collectively had a larger imprint on pop culture than the members of Toto. As individuals, the band members can be heard on an astonishing 5000 albums that together amass a sales history of a HALF A BILLION albums. Amongst these recordings, NARAS applauded the performances with more than 200 Grammy nominations.

With over 35 years together and thousands of credits and accolades to their names, Toto remains one of the top selling tour and recording acts in the world. They are the benchmark by which many artists base their sound and production, and they continue to transcend the standards set by the entire music community, being simply synonymous with musical credibility.

Band members have been South Park characters, while recently Jimmy Fallon and JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE offered a light-hearted homage via a comedy sketch around the band's hit 'Africa'. They are pop culture, and are one of the few 70’s bands that have endured the changing trends and styles, and more than 35 years in to a career enjoy a multi-generational fan base.

Toto also continues to raise awareness for ALS, for their brother and friend, Mike Porcaro, who has been diagnosed with ALS, Lou Gehrig's Disease. The band commits energies towards fundraising for Police and Fire Departments of California and the Fallen Heroes initiative, and help the United Nations in their humanitarian endeavors through music.

Dark metallers FOSCOR have today released their entire back catalogue, which includes the band's first three full-length albums - 2004's Entrance To The Shadows' Village, 2007's The Smile Of The Sad Ones and 2009's Groans To The Guilty. Each album includes lyrics and information. All three albums are released digitally, and will be available for free download for the first month. They can be found at this location.
As well as on BandCamp, the back catalogue is also be available to stream on YouTube

With over a decade in the music scene, Foscor recently announced that the band's natural musical progression and development has led to a change in style away from the traditional 90s black metal mixed with other classical and modern extreme styles, for which they became know. Breaking free from the restrictions the genre places on bands has enabled Foscor to expand their sound to include shades of doom and dark rock, majestic interludes and a healthy flirtation with prog.

Frontman Fiar is quick to point out though that fans will still recognise the distinctive Foscor style, which the band have not rejected, but have made better, and which will be very much in evidence in the band's newly completed fourth full-length album Those Horrors Wither.

Currently in search of a label for Those Horrors Wither, Foscor has chosen a somewhat unusual direction with the guest appearances on the album. Instead of the expected vocals or instrumental solos, the notable guests have written and performed connecting passages between the tracks.

Nine tracks from Foscor can be heard below:

FOSCOR by FOSCOR (OFFICIAL)

The official video for the track 'I Tornà de les Cendres' from the band's 2009 album The Smile Of The Sad Ones, can be seen below:

With the release of their 2011 EP Warchitects, and appearances all over Benelux, young Dutch thrashers NECKBREAK NATION quickly rose to prominence in their region. This caught the attention of Dutch-based booking agency TMR Music Promotions, who soon signed the band.

Now, Neckbreak Nation is back with a vengeance in a new lineup consisting of drummer Ivo (also of IZEGRIM), guitarists Jelle and Pascal, bassist Angus and vocalist Sander - a solid pack of friends who have known each other for a long time.
The making of the debut album, Stroke Of The Devil's Hour, has been quite the ride. “We truly went places, tried different people and got the most out of it even though the budget was limited”, drummer Ivo states.

Pre-recordings started in their own studio, while the recording sessions took place in the Dutch Delta Beats Studio. Mix was done by Pascal Altena who also produced the EP and is well known in the Dutch scene, while the band took a totally different approach with the master, and went to Ivo Statinski - a former DJ and hip hop producer.

Ivo explains: “He has top of the line (analog) mastering equipment and he has an amazing ear for details. Even though the choice was unconventional, his master stood out next to a few others. It was clear for us to work with someone outside the box since he heard certain aspects in our music others wouldn’t, mainly because of his musical background.”

Neckbreak Nation has with Stroke Of The Devil’s Hour created an album that hits as a blunt force. The band has concocted a lethal brew of groove-ridden, melody-based and highly technical modern thrash that leaves the listener in want for more.

Stroke of the Devil’s Hour will hit stores and digitals platforms April 7th 2014!
Tracklisting:

'Endless'
'Detest The Faith'
'Beyond The Treachery'
'Interlude To Inception'
'Stating Equality'
'Evolve To Six'
'Scorching'
'Another Lie'
'Outcasts' (feat. Leigh Chambers)

'Stating Equality':

Norway's ZENO MORF will release their new album, Kingdom Of Ice, on March 28th via Pure Steel Publishing.
Once again, the four guys founded in 1987 have twelve flawless, authentic heavy metal songs and no convinced headbanger will be disappointed. Backing choirs (the opener 'Hammer Squad'), straight drumming with tons of double bass, clean played twin guitar leads and a basic production are one of the great strengths of this band. Catchy, pounding riffs in the best ACCEPT-style with IRON MAIDEN-influenced solo parts and with rough shouts hit on melodic vocals are attributes of Zeno Morph.
Tracklisting:

'Souls Of A Frozen Earth'
'Hammersquad'
'Blackout'
'Kingdom Of Ice'
'Carved In Stone'
'The Home Of The Brave'
'Between the Twilight An The Dead'
'Lost '
'A Question Of Faith'
'Coming Home'
'Our Own Worst Enemy'
'Uncle Sam' (Bonus Track)

Lineup:

Erik Westerlund - vocals, guitars
Vidar Aas - bass
Trygve André Tvedt - drums, percussion
Johnny Sorensen - guitars

Lacerated Enemy Records will be unleashing the latest epic in brutality by INFECTING THE SWARM from Germany. Playing hyper-fast blast-ridden and visceral brutal death metal, Infecting The Swarm compete against the likes of DISGORGE, GUTTURAL SECRETE and SUFFOCATION, taking the music forward without compromising on the extremity in any possible way.

Pathogenesis will contain nine tracks of sci-fi-themed brutality and has designed the artwork conveying the same. Infecting The Swarm believe in portraying the brutality via its music.
Infecting The Swarm comments:

"I am extremely proud to announce that Infecting The Swarm has signed a multi-album deal with the veteran death metal label Lacerated Enemy Records. The first album Pathogenesis will be released on May 5th as CD, Limited Digipack and Digital version. On a personal note I want to add that I am beyond honored to be on LER, so far working with this label has been nothing but a pleasure and extremely professional. I can't wait to work with LER for the next albums too!"

21OCTAYNE, a new rock act featuring members of the JOE PERRY band, RHAPSODY, AXXIS, and PAUL GILBERT, will release its debut album, Into The Open, on May 23rd.
A press release describes the band: “21Octayne is the epitome of soulful, honest, ass-kicking rock with a slight modern touch. A new name, a new band, but no unknowns here: the band consists of vocalist Hagen Grohe (THE JOE PERRY PROJECT), Marco Wriedt (Axxis), Andrew “The Bullet” Lauer (Paul Gilbert) and drummer Alex Landenburg (Rhapsody). The four guys took their time and worked hard on their debut album for more than two years, ready for impact now! Meanwhile the young band scored first success by releasing a digital single for ‘The Heart (Save Me)’ which went (without any kind of promotion) straight to #1 in Amazon Germany’s hard rock/metal chart and also appeared on the US Itunes chart! This good start for 21Octayne might be caused by several factors, one being vocalist Hagen Grohe who leads the band’s US-influenced rock to international level. A quality that guitar icon Joe Perry (AEROSMITH) realized quickly as well, so he made Grohe the vocalist of the Joe Perry Project. And he was not disappointed by the young German who convinced on album recordings and numerous live shows playing after in support of the release.”

Video ‘The Heart (Save Me)’:
For more info visit 21Octayne.com.

Beyond Productions has announced the signing of HADDAH. The Italian melodic death metal act will release their first full-length album, Through The Gates Of Evangelia, at the end of March.

The album has been produced, mixed and mastered by Marco Gandolfi (BOBBY KIMBALL, CARMINE APPICE, KEN HENSLEY, BERNIE MARSDEN) at the Mofo Studio in Piacenza.

The album cover has been designed by Colin Marks - Rain Song Design. The UK artist is renowned for the covers he has created for EXODUS, JEFF LOOMIS, THREAT SIGNAL, CATARACT, ALLAGAEON and many others.
Through The Gates Of Evangelia tracklisting:

‘The 7th Autumn (intro)’
‘Knights Of The Rebel’
‘The War Of Wars’
‘Apostasy’
‘Live Your Existence’
‘Immortality’
‘Get Down All The Demons’
‘Thoth’
‘He’s Not Dead’

Album teaser:
For more info visit Haddah.it.

'Caracas', the new track from METALUSION, the new act featuring former MEGADETH/KING DIAMOND guitarist Glen Drover, is now available digitally via iTunes at this location.

Drover previously stated: "First of all, my band, which has until now been known as the GLEN DROVER BAND, has been talking about the idea of changing the bands name for a while now. The reason for this is that everyone (and beyond) thats involved with this project have submitted material for the recordings along the way, and we all feel its more appropriate to have a more unified name, rather than just myself. I have always looked at this as a band. Not Glen and the side dudes. It was initially a record company push to have my name on the front. Well, I don't work with that company anymore, and its time for a change. We decided to call the band/project Metalusion which is the name of our first album.

The idea to call the band Metalusion has been talked about for a little while, and the more we have thought and talked about it, the more we like it. I originally got the idea from Derek Sherinian of PLANET X. for this who don't know, His first solo album was under his name, and the name of the album was called Planet X. Guess he realized that was also a good name for a band, which is exactly what he ended up doing. Same here, we realized that not only was it a cool name for the first album, but a good band name as well for the future!

The album will be called Between Sea and Sky. This instrumental tune, entitled 'Caracas' was written by Jim Gilmour and myself, and we are all very proud of it! The album is more than half way complete, and we should have a release in summer 2014."

Episode #84 of Mars Attacks Podcast contains an interview with Glen Drover
"He and his band Metalusion are currently working on new material. In the meantime, this is an interview conducted with Glen back in the fall of 2013 to promote the album Live At Metalworks. During the interview Glen discusses how the Live At Metal Works album came together, how the song selection took place, and why the album was put together with Dave Martone.

Aside from talking to Glen we discuss crowdfunding projects by SCOTT IAN, RICKY WARWICK and THE BIRTHDAY MASSACRE."

The episode can be streamed below or downloaded at this location.

Mars Attacks Podcast