Finnish symphonic metallers AMBERIAN DAWN last month announced the addition of 40-year-old singer Päivi "Capri" Virkkunen to the group's ranks. The band's new lineup re-recorded the "best" songs from its first four albums — "Circus Black" (2012), "End Of Eden" (2010), "The Clouds Of Northland Thunder" (2009) and "River Of Tuoni" (2008) — for a compilation album, to be released later in the year.

Behind-the-scenes footage from the compilation CD recordings can be seen below.

Capri previously released two solo albums: "Salaa Sinun" (1997) and "Kuun Morsian" (2001).

Commented AMBERIAN DAWN: "As announced recently we have spent quite some time with the search for a new singer. A pretty hard task, but we think we managed to find an extraordinarily talented singer.

"We are very proud to present you Capri! She is from Finland and a professional vocalist with a strong background: she has worked for a vast amount of different kinds of studio and live projects (musicals, lead and backing vocal recordings, live shows etc).

"Capri has a classical training but is still 100 percent a rock singer. We are sure she will bring AMBERIAN DAWN to a new level by interpreting AMBERIAN DAWN songs with a different kind of style and emotion.

"And since we all thought that Capri can sing those 'classic' AMBERIAN DAWN songs with new and refreshing style and sound, we decided to re-record a selection of our best songs again with her. Also 75% of the music stems are going to be re-recorded. Mikko P. Mustonen, who did orchestral arrangements for our previous album ('Circus Black'), will add some more color to those songs with awesome orchestral additions. He's also going to mix this album."

Added AMBERIAN DAWN songwriter Tuomas Seppälä: "Finding Capri and getting her join AMBERIAN DAWN is like a big dream coming true to me. Capri shares the same taste in music as I and that's why is obvious that our new partnership is like 'match made in heaven.' She really makes my compositions to shine like never before and I'm so impressed about her every way. I'm as excited as back then when I found our original singer Heidi. Now my main focus is to make the whole world to hear about Capri and start composing new songs for her. But first, we're all concentrating on recording this compilation album with Capri and then I'll start working with new material for new studio album."

AMBERIAN DAWN 2013 is:

Päivi "Capri" Virkkunen - Vocals
Tuomas Seppälä - Guitar, Keyboards
Emil Pohjalainen - Guitar
Kimmo Korhonen - Guitar
Jukka Koskinen - Bass
Joonas Pykälä-aho - Drums

AMBERIAN DAWN parted ways with vocalist Heidi Parviainen in November 2012. Her final appearance with the band was at the Metal Female Voices Fest at the end of October in Belgium.

AMBERIAN DAWN's fourth studio album, "Circus Black", was released in Finland on February 29 via Spinefarm Records. The band's mainman, keyboardist and guitarist Tuomas Seppälä composed all ten songs for the CD and Parviainen penned the lyrics.

PENTAGRAM CHILE is nearing completion of its first-ever studio album, which will be titled "The Malefice". Drums for the CD were tracked at Sade Studios in Santiago, Chile, while all guitars and vocals were recorded at HVR Studios in Suffolk, U.K., where the album is currently being mixed by vocalist/guitarist Anton Reisenegger with longtime friend, collaborator, co-producer and studio owner Daniel Biggin.

The band faced a dilemma when deciding whether to re-record their legendary '80s material. Reisenegger comments: "We weren't sure if we should re-record the old demo songs; some people encouraged us to do so, others said we would ruin our own legacy. At first, we decided to re-record just a couple, but while we were at it, we were so pleased with the results we decided to do them all."

"We obviously didn't want to base our first studio album on 25-year old songs," he continues, "as people have been — rightfully — accusing us of flogging that material to death already, so I think we found an elegant solution: The album's first edition will consist of two records, one of all-new material written during the last two years, and a second one of re-recorded songs from the '80s demos. The few friends who've been able to listen to the re-recorded material have been amazed at how we've been able to capture the vibe of the old material despite using modern recording technology. Hell, even the new stuff sounds like it came from that era!"

While the PENTAGRAM drum throne was recently taken over by veteran Chilean drummer Juan Pablo Donoso (SADISM, EXECRATOR, THRONAFIRE) after original member Eduardo Topelberg left the band (he is now a local politician for the Ñuñoa district of Santiago), bass duties on the album were split between various musicians. Besides the band's touring bassists Juan Francisco Cueto and Daniel Biggin, the band also invited longtime friend Rodrigo "Pera" Cuadra of DORSO to record the bass on one song, as well as to re-do the evil laughter he originally contributed to the demo version of the track "The Malefice".

Another bassist to guest on the album is Mauricio Peña, brother of original PENTAGRAM bassist Alfredo "Bey" Peña, who committed suicide in 1990. "It was really emotive to have Mauricio perform on the album. He looks a lot like his brother and is just as talented. In a way, it's like Alfredo is still with us in spirit."

In addition, the track "La Fiura" will feature a scream provided by MORGOTH singer Marc Grewe. "The song is about this mythological creature from the South of Chile," Reisenegger explains, "which emits this really piercing, high-pitched scream that literally melts people's faces. When we were playing the Maryland Deathfest last year, MORGOTH were on while we were getting ready, and all of a sudden we heard this insane scream. We all looked at each other and said: 'That's it, that's La Fiura!!!' So we approached Marc and he immediately agreed."

The album mix is due to be finished at the end of January, and the band are aiming for a late spring release on Germany's Cyclone Empire Records.

Australia-based hard rockers BABYJANE have inked a multi-album deal with England's Z Records. The band's 's sophomore album, "Make It Sick", which was previously made available through CDBaby.com, will receive a wider release in March. The CD's title track, which features a guest appearance by John Corabi, former lead singer of MÖTLEY CRÜE, THE SCREAM and UNION, was recorded with legendary producer Michael Wagener's (METALLICA, SKID ROW, OZZY OSBOURNE) Wireworld Studio in Nashville, Tennessee. The song can now be streamed using the SoundCloud player below.

Commented Z Records: "Upon hearing material that was sent into the label, an offer was immediately made after the album instantly grabbed everybody's attention at Z's office . Fans of LILLIAN AXE's classic 'Love And War' album will drool over 'Make It Sick'."

BABYJANE's "She's Just A Liar" video can be seen below. The clip was filmed by Kundabuffer Photography & Multimedia and was directed by Baz Harvey.

BABYJANE's previous album, "Are You Listening?", was mixed by Wagener in 2010.

BABYJANE is:

Andy Smith - Vocals, Guitar
John Gerasolo - Lead Guitars
Paul Judge - Bass, Vocals
Nik Kats - Drums

For more information, visit BABYJANE's web site, www.babyjane.com.au.

Florida-based death metal veterans CANNIBAL CORPSE will release a box set to commemorate their 25th anniversary: "Dead Human Collection: 25 Years Of Death Metal". The box contains: all 12 full-length studio albums in a 12-CD foldout case with new artwork, "Torturing And Eviscerating Live" on CD and LP picture disc recorded in Tampa, Florida in 2010 and Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 2012, plus new exclusive images by Vince Locke, 12" x 12" graphic prints of all 13 original album covers, and a 2013 CANNIBAL CORPSE calendar. The box will be in stores on March 16 and will be available for pre-order soon, along with the previously announced series of CANNIBAL CORPSE picture discs, at metalblade.com/cannibalcorpse.

After a bloody successful maiden voyage in 2012, Decibel magazine is doubling down on veteran star power for their second annual national tour. This spring, the plague spreads as Decibel brings you three living legends of death metal and grindcore: the preeminent gore institution CANNIBAL CORPSE; rabble-rousing U.K. grind icons NAPALM DEATH, and NYDM stalwarts IMMOLATION.

While occultism permeated last spring's inaugural Decibel tour — featuring exclusively European headliners in BEHEMOTH, WATAIN, THE DEVIL'S BLOOD and IN SOLITUDE — they looked (mostly) to North America for this year's unholy assemblage. Three of Decibel's favorite underground powerhouses will take on this year's rotating opening slot: demented Bay Area death-grinders CRETIN, Canadian tech-prog upstarts BEYOND CREATION and Beltway grind/powerviolence crushers MAGRUDERGRIND. And the time is ripe to see the new bleed into the old: three of the six artists performing are expected to have new records detonating during the tour.

Kicking off in May, this year's Decibel Magazine Tour gauntlet will last a full week longer than its 2012 counterpart, spanning over 30 North American dates. Presented by Metal Blade, IndiemerchStore.com, Nuclear Blast, Lace Pickups, Century Media and Season Of Mist, the 2013 Decibel Magazine Tour will bring together the kind of globally-renowned, boundary-pushing innovators that have made it possible for the magazine to continue thriving for over 100 issues. Coming off a tour noted for BEHEMOTH frontman Nergal's triumphant return to the States following his battle with leukemia — which culiminated in an explosive sold-out closing gig in New York City — Decibel had no choice but to go bigger and even more badass.

Detroit thrashers BATTLECROSS will enter Audiohammer Studios in Sanford, Florida next month to record the follow-up to their 2011 Metal Blade debut, "Pursuit Of Honor". The band will begin tracking immediately after the "Another Year, Another Tour" with IN FLAMES, DEMON HUNTER and ALL SHALL PERISH for 27 North American dates that begins on February 2 in Ft. Lauderdale. Eyal Levy will handle engineering duties on the record and ARMORED SAINT's Joey Vera, who mastered the band's cover version of PANTERA's "Fucking Hostile", will master.

Lewis, responsible for the production and/or engineering for bands such as THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, TRIVIUM, DEVILDRIVER and DEICIDE, said: "I can't wait to be a part of BATTLECROSS' next record. From the moment I heard the band I knew I wanted to be a part of their development. Hearing the new music has only solidified that feeling. Working with our good friends at Metal Blade and bringing great new music to the masses is what it's all about."

BATTLECROSS guitarist Hiran Deraniyagala says the band is "stoked to be working with a prolific studio and producer at Audiohammer. We're so focused on making a killer follow-up album and we feel that Mark Lewis will help bring our raw, live sound to life."

Metal Blade President Michael Faley said: "2013 is destined to be big year for BATTLECROSS, starting with a tour with IN FLAMES in February, followed by recording the new album with Mark Lewis in March and April. We have high expectations for the band's sophomore effort, which will be released to coincide with a massive tour this summer (stay tuned for details). We are excited by the band's 'non-stop' approach which has landed them on significant tours and support from Jose Mangin at SiriusXM Liquid Metal."

In addition, BATTLECROSS was recently added to the 15th annual New England Metal And Hardcore Festival in Worcester, Massachusetts. This will be the band's first appearance at the event, which will also feature ANTHRAX, SUICIDAL TENDENCIES, OPETH and many more.

"Pursuit Of Honor" topped the SiriusXM Liquid metal chart, garnered great reviews and earned the band high-profile tours, including last summer's Trespass America with FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE and TRIVIUM.

Reformed Chicago death metallers BROKEN HOPE have posted a new EPK (Electronic Press Kit) containing a brief recap of the band's history, information about their upcoming album, and more. Check it out below.

In regards to BROKEN HOPE's next studio CD, guitarist Jeremy Wagner comments: "We finished writing the new BROKEN HOPE album and plan to start recording in March with Chris Djuric at Belle City Sound and Scott Creekmore at Mercenary Digital Studios. As reported recently, the 11 tracks include 'The Flesh Mechanic' and 'Give Me The Bottom Half'...and these are just the tip of a massive and sick iceberg. We plan to turn this new monstrosity in to Century Media in May — before our appearances at Extremefest (Germany) and Maryland Deathfest 2013."

BROKEN HOPE was formed in 1988 by Wagner, while he was in high school. Shortly after formation, they recorded two demo tapes and signed with indie label, Grind-Core Records. Then in 1991, they released their debut album, "Swamped In Gore", launching the band out of the underground and into the mainstream. From there, the band signed to Metal Blade Records and released three more albums, all stellar examples of BROKEN HOPE's fury, which etched their place in death-metal history.

After BROKEN HOPE's last album (1999's "Grotesque Blessings") and world tours, Wagner cleaned house and put BROKEN HOPE into "metal hibernation" in 2000. On January 20, 2010, original BROKEN HOPE vocalist Joe Ptacek tragically committed suicide. He was only 37 years old. Before his death, Ptacek met with Wagner and Glass and discussed the resurrection of BROKEN HOPE. With Ptacek's death, Wagner and Glass took time off to reconsider their next moves.

In 2012, BROKEN HOPE signed with Hard Impact Management and vowed to make BROKEN HOPE a full-time monster. Wagner and Glass recruited longtime friend and GORGASM vocalist Damian Leski as their new frontman and shortly after marked their return on the highly successful Carnival Of Death tour. BROKEN HOPE's high-intensity concerts received top praise, and confirmed the band was back and more rabid than ever.

BROKEN HOPE 2013 is:

Damian Leski - Vocals
Jeremy Wagner - Guitars
Shaun Glass - Bass
Chuck Wepfer - Lead Guitars
Mike Miczek - Drums

The official lyric video for "One Finger And A Fist", a brand new song from Texas heavy rockers DROWNING POOL, can be seen below. The track will appear on the band's fifth album, which is due out later this year via Eleven Seven Music. The band teamed up with producer Kato Khandwalla at House of Loud Studios in New Jersey, as well as John Feldmann (THE USED, STORY OF THE YEAR), and completed the album in Dallas.

DROWNING POOL bassist Stevie Benton recently spoke to AOL's Noisecreep about the latest addition to the group lineup: singer Jasen Moreno. Moreno, who previously fronted fellow Texas band THE SUICIDE HOOK, is DROWNING POOL's fourth and newest frontman. Jasen replaces vocalist Ryan McCombs, who exited the group at the end of 2011 after a six-year stint in the lineup.

Asked how DROWNING POOL's chemistry has been affected by the singer changes over the years, Benton said: "Well, it's a forced form of band evolution, I would say, certainly not something you strive for and not something that I would advise other bands to do, because it's a lot of extra work and it's hard on you at times, but for us, we still had a such great time with Dave [Williams, DROWNING POOL's original singer] and such great vibes still remains and we've been trying to recapture that ever since then. It feels cheap to stick with a chemistry that just doesn't feel right and so maybe that's why we've had a lot of turnover. We knew if we switched singers again that a lot of people would look at it and make comments, but for us it seemed like it was worth it to take that shot at capturing the best chemistry we ever had. So we did. Look, sometimes you have to shift gears and I'm sure some of our ex-singers feel the same way: 'I can't wait to get the hell out of here.'"

He added: "One thing we have learned is that each singer has strong points and weak points and we've learned to craft the sound of the band that will benefit the singer at the time. It can be tricky at times to learn the nuances of it, but this time around, one fortunate thing is Jasen, our new singer, is a Dallas guy, we've know him for years and so it's not like having a stranger coming in. We had a great idea about him though, who he is and what he is about, and so we've been able to hit the ground running."

Moreno made his live debut as a member of DROWNING POOL on July 8, 2012 at a club in Ardmore, Oklahoma.

DROWNING POOL's video for the song "Saturday Night" was directed by Jon Bertorelli and produced by Daniel Livschultz, both of Vulpine Films.

"One Finger And A Fist" lyric video:

Dutch occult rock act THE DEVIL'S BLOOD has officially canceled its appearance at the 2013 edition of the Roadburn festival, set to take place April 18-21 at the 013 venue in Tilburg, Holland.

Said the band in a statement: "THE DEVIL'S BLOOD has come to an end. This decision was as sudden as it was final. We had no choice but to abide by that same urgent call which told us six years ago to start what we have now finished.

"We would like to thank Walter Hoeijmakers and the rest of the Roadburn organisation for their undying support and understanding. We shall never forget!"

THE DEVIL'S BLOOD's latest full-length album, "The Thousandfold Epicentre", was made available in North America on January 17, 2012. The 11-song CD was produced with the help of Pieter Kloos at Void Studios in Eindhoven, The Netherlands.

Originally released in Europe in November 2011 through VÁN Records, "The Thousandfold Epicentre" landed on the Dutch album chart at position No. 76.

Solo artist and iconic guitarist Orianthi is gearing up for the release of her new album, "Heaven In This Hell". Orianthi will captivate fans with a record that delivers a mega-dose of rock and weaves elements of modern country and swampy blues. The album, produced by Dave Stewart, will be released on Robo Records (distributed by Universal/Fontana) and is scheduled to drop on March 12. The first single, "Frozen", will be serviced to rock and classic rock radio on January 28.

From writing her first song at the age of 6, to being discovered and playing alongside her idols Carlos Santana and Steve Vai early in her career, Orianthi has made an enduring mark on the music industry. While many were introduced to this timid guitar goddess when she played the Grammy Awards in 2009 as part of Carrie Underwood's band, it was being selected for Michael Jackson's ill-fated "This Is It Tour" that exposed her to mainstream audiences. In the fall of 2009, Orianthi released "According To You", her first solo single, which went platinum in the U.S. and abroad. More than just a gifted guitarist, this success showed she had serious vocal chops as well.

In late 2011, between legs of Alice Cooper's world tour (where she played lead guitar), she began work on her forthcoming project.

"I am so proud of this album because it really showcases my style of riff heavy rock and energetic blues," Orianthi remarks. "The success of 'Believe' [her previous CD] helped give me credibility and afforded me the freedom to create the kind of album I have been wanting to make, with musicians I respect, playing together live in a studio, creatively exchanging ideas...the way I want all my records to be made. My friend, collaborator and producer, Dave Stewart, and I just jammed and hashed out a variety of songs and sounds until we found the grooves that inspired us," she continues.

While Orianthi recorded a majority of "Heaven In This Hell" at Blackbird Studio in Nashville, she also recorded several songs and overdubs at Dave Stewart's (of THE EURYTHMICS) Hollywood studio.

"Working with Ori over the last year has been an inspiring experience for me," said Stewart. "She is such a dedicated guitarist and focused songwriter; her enthusiasm is infectious and all the musicians who worked on the record were motivated to give her their best. When we went to Nashville, we knew we were about to embark on something exciting, something career altering."

The time spent in Nashville left an indelible impression that can be heard in several of the tracks, which were mixed by Nashville resident John McBride. New tracks like "Rock" and "Another You" are examples of crossover country-AC songs that blend heartfelt harmonies and melodies with lyrics that showcase a more vulnerable, exposed emotional side, often veiled by her signature PRS axe. "Heaven In This Hell", the title track, is a blues-rooted rock song which features swampy guitar riffs with an edgy ZEPPELIN-esque vibe. Songs like "Frozen", the first single, and "You Don't Wanna Know" provide listeners with some insight into a couple of her primary musical influences with raw, crunchy guitar riffs reminiscent of Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughn. "If You Think You Know Me" is an arousing anthem with thunderous drums, meant to inspire and empower anyone who has ever felt alone. This track, which begs to be played in a large arena, asks listeners: "Have you ever felt like you didn't fit in?/Like there's somebody else inside your skin?/ Well you're not alone/We all came here for something."

"To say that we are excited about this record is a complete understatement," said Rob Christie, founder of Robo Records. "Not only is Orianthi one of the most gifted musicians I've heard, but she also has a heart of gold. She is extremely passionate about music, animals, family and her fans. She truly is an inspiration to adults and children, literally around the globe."

"I'm so excited to share 'Heaven In This Hell' with the fans! It's been a long time coming for me," says Orianthi.

"Devil's Slide", the new video from the Pacifica, California-based hard rock/metal four-piece HAUNTED BY HEROES — which is composed of 12-year-old middle school students — can be seen below. The band's self-titled debut album was released on January 19 via Alfadkidz Records. The CD was produced by Sylvia Massy, who has previously worked with such luminaries as REM, RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS, DEFTONES, SYSTEM OF A DOWN and TOOL.

TWISTED SISTER frontman Dee Snider joined HAUNTED BY HEROES, often called "the world's youngest rock band" by some, on the September 6, 2012 edition of "America's Got Talent" to perform the TS classic "We're Not Gonna Take It".

HAUNTED BY HEROES has played over 100 live shows, and has been profiled on several national news networks. The band was featured on the "Today" show, where Matt Lauer called them "unique, with a larger-than-life sound."

According to a press release, "HAUNTED BY HEROES is NOT a contrived band looking for a short-term career but rather a truly organic professional group of gifted musicians who just happen to be historically young... They rock hard to spread the word that young people can create their own destiny and dreams can come true. Lyrically, they message antibullying, staying true to who you are and believing in oneself. Musically, they perform with the conviction and talent of their rock heroes."

KORN will reunite with founding guitarist Brian "Head" Welch for several festival shows this summer, including two dates in Germany, one concert in the United Kingdom and at the upcoming Rock On The Range festival in Columbus, Ohio.

Welch joined KORN onstage for the song "Blind" last May at the Carolina Rebellion festival in Rockingham, North Carolina, marking the first time in eight years that KORN played with Welch.

Welch, who has just released an album with his new band LOVE & DEATH, tells RollingStone.com that a setlist for the KORN shows hasn't been discussed yet but that he wouldn't be opposed to playing one of the early KORN albums in its entirety.

"I think that would be kind of cool to do somewhere, sometime," he says. "Like the very first [1994's KORN debut]. We're all in different places, so we're all just going to get together and talk about set lists. Obviously, all the hard-hitting, energetic classics, where people lose their mind — those will definitely be there. Because those are the funnest ones to play."

According to Welch, the feedback he has received from KORN fans thus far has been overwhelmingly positive. "Everyone is broken in this world. There's so much divorce, hate and unforgiveness. For people to see this, I think it's just really uplifting," he says. "I never thought it would happen, and I'm not sure they did either. The fans just love it, because a lot of the fans back in the day were like, suicidal, and from broken homes and abuse. They looked up to us like their family. And to see their family split up was hard on them. To get it put back together, there is a joy around the people who care about it."

The guitarist also doesn't rule out the possibility of a full U.S. tour with KORN or a collaboration on the band's next studio album. "We're going slow," Welch says. "We're hanging out when I've got time, but I've got my album out, and they're busy doing their stuff. But I'd say anything is possible right now."

Welch left KORN in 2005 to become a born-again Christian. The band never officially replaced him and stayed a four-piece, although they've used several touring guitarists for live work.

Welch and bassist Reginald "Fieldy" Arvizu have said in interviews that a full reunion could be possible one day.

KORN has been touring for much of the past year behind its 10th studio album, "The Path Of Totality", but has also begun work on a new set of material.

Steve Morse (DEEP PURPLE), Richie Kotzen (MR. BIG, POISON), Uli Jon Roth (SCORPIONS) and Gus G. (FIREWIND, OZZY OSBOURNE) are among the musicians who performed at a special concert on Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at Slim's in San Francisco, California, reminding the world that Jason Becker's Not Dead Yet. Proceeds from the second Jason Becker's Not Dead Yet festival (the first one was held in March 2011) will go towards medical supplies for Jason as well as a trust fund to provide for his future security.

A 43-minute collection of video highlights from last week's concert can be seen below.

Jason Becker, a onetime guitar prodigy first known as part of the metal duo CACOPHONY, was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, aka Lou Gehrig's Disease) at age 20, shortly after joining David Lee Roth's band for the gold-selling 1991 album "A Little Ain't Enough". Although the disease robbed him of his ability to play guitar — and eventually left him both paralyzed and unable to speak — Becker continues to compose music with the help of computers, collaborators, and a system of communication using eye movements that was devised by his father Gary.

Even after his once prodigious axe skills left him, Jason's music continued to earn the respect of his peers. Joe Satriani called 2001's "Perspectives" — Jason's first recorded work after losing his motor functions (originally self-released in 1996) — "a triumphantly powerful and beautiful album." Fellow virtuosos joined the chorus of praise, including Steve Vai, who said, "Jason has discovered a brilliant source of inspiration within himself. His deep soul searching has resulted in a body of music that reveals courage and insight and is deeply moving."

Jason's original partner in CACOPHONY, Marty Friedman added, "To call Jason a genius is an understatement. He doesn't cater to trend, target audiences, marketing gimmicks or anything like that. He plays out the emotions from his heart and makes real music that is a salute to the human spirit. Jason is a prodigy and on 'Perspectives' he realizes his miraculous potential."

Jason's most recent album, 2008's "Collection", is a mix of old recordings and new compositions, with guest guitar work from Satriani, Vai, Friedman, Michael Lee Firkins, and Greg Howe.

The January 23 Jason Becker's Not Dead Yet festival at Slim's in San Francisco is a tribute to Jason and celebration of his amazing story, as well as an opportunity to educate music fans and guitar aficionados about the effects of ALS and the quest for a cure. The idea for the show originated with Bay Area guitarist Dave Lopez of FLIPSYDE and BANG DATA.

The DVD version of the documentary film "Jason Becker: Not Dead Yet" was made available on December 18 via Kino Lorber.

For more on Jason Becker and his fight with ALS, go to www.jasonbeckerguitar.com.

Quality footage of CLUTCH's January 23 performance at Melkweg in Amsterdam, The Netherlands can be seen below.

Produced by Machine (LAMB OF GOD, FOUR YEAR STRONG, FALL OUT BOY) at the Machine Shop studio in Belleville, New Jersey, CLUTCH's new album, "Earth Rocker", will be released on March 19 via the band's own Weathermaker Music label. The CD was described by CLUTCH vocalist Neil Fallon in a recent interview with DCHeavyMetal.com as "probably faster than most of our recent albums. Maybe compared to some other bands, it's not the fastest thing on planet Earth. For us it was definitely a step up in the tempo. And I think the other thing that kind of stands out about this one is the blues influences that we've been flirting with over the past couple records is more or less absent in this record, which didn't really happen intentionally until we looked back at it. As a whole, it's just much more of a straight-up rock and roll record."

The artwork for "Earth Rocker" was created by Nick Lakiotes, longtime CLUTCH art director, who has worked on previous efforts, including "Robot Hive/Exodus" and "Strange Cousins From The West".

CLUTCH's North American dates kick off March 8 in Cincinnati, Ohio and are currently slated to run through April 20 in Baltimore, Maryland.

Video footage of Brazilian guitarist Kiko Loureiro's (ANGRA) performance at Samson, Hartke and Zoom's booth at this year's NAMM (National Association Of Music Merchants) show, a massive music-products convention that took place January 24-27 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California, can be seen below.

Kiko's latest solo album, "Sounds Of Innocence", was released in Japan at the end of June 2012 and was made available in the rest of the world in July 2012. The CD features guest appearances by Virgil Donati (PLANET X, STEVE VAI, SOUL SIRKUS) on drums and Felipe Andreoli (ANGRA, ALMAH) on bass. One track also features LIVING COLOUR bassist Doug Wimbish. The effort was produced by Kiko Loureiro, mixed by Dennis Ward and mastered by Jürgen Lusky.

"Sounds Of Innocence" track listing:

01. Awakening Prelude
02. Gray Stone Gateway
03. Conflicted
04. Reflective
05. El Guajiro
06. Ray Of Life
07. The Hymn
08. Mãe D'Água
09. Twisted Horizon
10. A Perfect Rhyme
11. Conflicted (back base) (bonus track)

Kiko's third solo album, "Fullblast", came out in 2009.

Singer Eduardo "Edu" Falaschi last year left ANGRA. A replacement vocalist has not yet been announced.

Easily one of the most anticipated Finnish death metal releases in recent memory, "Unending Degradation" from Helsinki's KRYPTS is due on February 19 via Dark Descent Records, with the vinyl version coming from Me Saco Un Ojo.

Festering in the underground since their inception in 2008, KRYPTS is prepared to unleash its debut full-length. While the trademark KRYPTS' sounds from the 2009 demo and 2011 EP are there (lumbering low-end, bone-crunching riffs and toxic vocals), "Unending Degradation" showcases a band which has honed their craft and is ready to deliver one of 2013's must-have death metal releases.

The song "Open the Crypt" is available for streaming below. Also available a video preview of "Beneath The Archaic".

01. Introeon: Perpetual Beyond
02. Blessed Entwinement
03. Open the Crypt
04. Dormancy of the Ancients
05. Inhale...
06. The Black Smoke
07. Day of Reckoning
08. Beneath the Archaic

KRYPTS is:

Otso Ukkonen - Drums
Ville Snicker - Guitar
Antti Kotiranta - Bass/Vocals

Northern Finnish metal band ETERNAL TEARS OF SORROW will release a two-song digital single, "Dark Alliance", on February 8.

The single will feature the following tracks:

01. Dark Alliance
02. Baptized By The Blood Of Angels

"Dark Alliance" audio sample:

Belgium's WIZZ WIZZARD has inked a deal with Rocksector Records. The band's debut full-length album, "Tears From The Moon", will be released in March. The CD's title track is now available for streaming and free download below.

With a sound embedded in traditional old-school hard rock and metal, the members of WIZZ WIZZARD proudly wear their influences and origins on their sleeves. This band is no attempt to innovate or be progressive but is founded on a devoted and infectious passion for the proud traditions of classic rock and metal, delivered with an unpretentious belief and love for the genre.

"Tears From The Moon" features a mix of new material, fan favorites from the band's setlist plus a couple of live recordings.

Thrashers DEAD TROOPER have completed work on their third-full length album and have released a teaser to give fans a taste of what they can expect. The nine-track album, for which a label is currently being sought, will be titled "Erector" and features a formidable array of guests from bands such as KEEP OF KALESSIN, MORBID ANGEL, 1349, PANTHEON I and TROLLFEST — names which give a clear indication of DEAD TROOPER's reputation both in the studio and as a live band. Artwork for "Erector" is by the Norwegian photographer Haakon Hoseth.

Formed in 2002 in Oslo, Norway, DEAD TROOPER is a powerhouse trio comprising Morten Müller (DEATH INJECTOR, TROLLFEST, METAL MILITIA, ex-GRIMFIST) on vocals and guitar, Andreas Stenvoll (BLODSPOR, ex-TROLL) on bass and vocals and Jon Eirik Bokn (BREED, AUTUMN INSPIRATION, ex-ZEROZONIC) on drum. Together they combine their impressive musical skills and considerable experience to produce their own brand of aggressive thrash metal. As a live band they have earned a reputation for charismatic, high energy shows that have garnered them a loyal following wherever they have appeared.

DEAD TROOPER's next live appearances will be at Betong in Oslo, Norway, on February 8 and the Kvinesdal Metal Fest at the Harvest Bar in Knivesdal, Norway on February 16.

Any labels wanting to find out more about DEAD TROOPER and "Erector" are invited to contact the band's management at patriciathomas@btinternet.com.

Full Metal Jackie conducted an interview with MEGADETH mainman Dave Mustaine for Dean Guitars' "Live From NAMM" webcast from this year's NAMM (National Association Of Music Merchants) show, a massive music-products convention that took place January 24-27 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. You can now watch the chat below.

"We're actually in the studio right now working on a new record," Mustaine said during the chat. "We have a new label. We left Roadrunner; we completed our contract with them, which not a lot of many metal bands have the luxury to have been able to complete contracts. They usually either break up or quit or give up and stuff like that, but we were honorable and finished our contract with them and we moved on. And we've actually got a fantastic relationship with a brand new label that we're gonna be telling everybody about real soon. We have eleven songs already recorded. We wanna give them thirteen, 'cause, you know, the B-sides and Japanes releases and all that kind of crazy stuff. So we're almost done with all of that stuff. I'm excited about the music."

He continued: "[MEGADETH bassist] David Ellefson is one of those guys that's kind of the barometer of the band. You ask me, you never really know what you're gonna get, but when you ask David Ellefson, it's kind of like reading the ingredients on the back of something, 'cause he's such a straight shooter. He told some people the other day that this is music that's really similar to [MEGADETH's 1985 debut album] 'Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!', some of the stuff — really dark, really heavy and fast stuff. I mean, I don't thnk it's really as fast and heavy as 'Killing' is, to me, but Junior is a great, like I said, barometer — bad word, but he knows what's going on.

"The relationship in the band right now, we're all getting along great; everybody is having a great time. Chris Broderick, what a great guitar player. Shawn Drover is playing his butt off, and Dave and I are getting along great right now. We're excited.

"We're gonna be debuting the name of the record soon. We've been giving little clips of some of the music on our web site and on Dean's web site.

"It's just a great time to be in MEGADETH."

MEGADETH's fourteenth studio album is being recorded with producer Johnny K (full name: John Karkazis), who has previously worked with DISTURBED, SEVENDUST, MACHINE HEAD and STAIND. The CD is being laid down at Mustaine's Vic's Garage studio in San Marcos, California.

Johnny K produced MEGADETH's last album, 2011's "TH1RT3EN", which was also recorded at Vic's Garage.

Reunited grunge legends SOUNDGARDEN tapped FOO FIGHTERS frontman and documentary director Dave Grohl to get behind the camera on December 18 and shoot the band's new video for its song "By Crooked Steps". The clip, which casts SOUNDGARDEN as a "Sons Of Anarchy" type of biker gang and also features electronic DJ sensation Deadmau5 in a cameo role, can now be seen below.

"By Crooked Steps" is taken from SOUNDGARDEN's first album in 16 years, "King Animal", which came out in November and sold 83,000 copies in its first week of release to debut at No. 5 on the Billboard album chart.

Grohl has directed a number of videos for FOO FIGHTERS, and has completed his first feature-length documentary, "Sound City", which will be released later this year. The film chronicles the history of the legendary Los Angeles studio where acts like NIRVANA, FLEETWOOD MAC, TOM PETTY, METALLICA and many others recorded classic albums.

"By Crooked Steps" follows "Been Away Too Long" as the second single from "King Animal". Singer Chris Cornell told The Pulse Of Radio a little about the tune: "It's one of the earlier songs that we started working on, but I also felt like it, to me, is like definitely sort of a new chapter for us. If you wanted to take one example of SOUNDGARDEN progressing, that's a good one for me."

SOUNDGARDEN reunited in 2010 after a 13-year break, releasing a retrospective collection called "Telephantasm" and a concert album titled "Live On I-5".

The band kicked off a winter North American tour on January 18 in Washington D.C.

SEVENDUST's ninth album, "Black Out The Sun", which will be released on March 26 via the band's 7Bros. Records label (through Warner Music Group's Independent Label Group). The CD was recorded at Architekt Music studios in Butler, New Jersey with engineer Mike Ferretti.

"Black Out The Sun" track listing:

01. Memory
02. Faithless
03. Till Death
04. Mountain
05. Cold As War
06. Black Out The Sun
07. Nobody Wants It
08. Dead Roses
09. Decay
10. Dark AM
11. Picture Perfect
12. Got A Feeling
13. Murder Bar

SEVENDUST is planning to film the video for the CD's first single, "Decay", at the end of the month, just before its upcoming tour with LACUNA COIL kicks off on February 2 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

SEVENDUST drummer Morgan Rose tells Billboard.com that the song actually came from a riff left over from the "Cold Ray Memory" sessions.

"We were starting to get burnt and we didn't want to push it," Rose recalls. "So we had this riff, and we said, 'Let's jam it and see if anything comes of it.' And before you know it, it became a song that ends up on the record, and everybody listens to it and they end up picking that as the single, which was pretty cool."

The song "Murder Bar" was reportedly inspired by a Butler, New Jersey bar across from the hotel where SEVENDUST was staying while recording the new CD. Rumor had it the place was popular with many of New Jersey's murderers.

"It's a basic SEVENDUST record," guitarist Clint Lowery recently told "Source Of The Sound With Wendy Campbell". "There's nothing, like, too completely different than anything we've done before. It's got a darker vibe to it. We've got a good amount of the programming element in there. It's a lot of what we do — it's heavy and it's got its melodic element in it. So if you're a SEVENDUST fan, it's more along the lines of the second and third records we did — it's kind of like that. It's got a couple of throwback vibes to it. 'Animosity' and 'Home' [1999], if I can put those two records together, it would [sound similar to the new CD]."

Los Angeles-based progressive death metal titans THE FACELESS have released the following statement regarding the departure of their drummer of the past five years, Lyle Cooper:

"To clear the air on a few details, THE FACELESS has decided to part ways with drummer Lyle Cooper due to a growing difference in the level of commitment to the project. We wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors and we're sure he'll continue to be successful with music. Having said that, we are very excited to announce that Alex Rudinger [THREAT SIGNAL, THE HAARP MACHINE] is our new full time drummer. We just played our first 3 shows with him in Mexico and what he brings to the band both musically and personally, is simply astounding. We are looking forward to a great future with Alex."

THE FACELESS's third full-length album, "Autotheism", was issued on August 14, 2012 via Sumerian Records. The band's first release in over three years saw the group's leader, Michael Keene, enlist a new vocalist, bassist and additional guitarist to help him see his musical vision come to fruition and these new members have delivered tenfold.

HardRockHaven.net conducted an interview with Carla Harvey and Heidi Shepherd of the BUTCHER BABIES on January 20 in Columbus, Ohio. You can now watch the chat below.

BUTCHER BABIES is currently on the road in North America as the support act for MARILYN MANSON. A list of remaining dates can be found on BUTCHER BABIES' Facebook page.

BUTCHER BABIES recently signed a deal with Century Media Records. The band's full-length debut is scheduled for a summer 2013 release.

Hailing from Los Angeles, the BUTCHER BABIES have emerged as one of the biggest draws on the Sunset Strip, their incendiary blend of heavy metal and horror-inspired theatrics inciting crowds worldwide.

Fronted by Harvey and Shepherd — named two of the "Hottest Women In Rock" by Revolver magazine — the blood-splattered band left its mark on the United Kingdom in June 2012, appearing on the Download festival and supporting ANTHRAX in Cardiff. They returned to America last fall as direct support for OTEP.

When asked by Revolver magazine why the BUTCHER BABIES refer to themselves as "slut metal" and what the hell "slut metal" exactly is, Shepherd said, "We can't go balls out — so we go tits out! When girls are perceived as sexual or outspoken, they get labeled sluts, but we embrace those qualities and bring them to our music as well. BUTCHER BABIES is true slut metal: We're doing what we want, how we want."

On the topic of BUTCHER BABIES' goals, Harvey told Revolver, "To bring slut metal to the masses — duh! In all seriousness, we feel like we are just touching on what we are capable of, and we want to continue to grow, get our music out there, and get on the road! There are so many repressed people out there that need to see a show like ours. Hopefully they will take home with them the message that they are able to do everything they want to do regardless of who they are told they are supposed to be."

Interview:

SKID ROW has completed recording and mixing its new album, "United World Rebellion - Chapter 1", tentatively due later this year via an as-yet-undisclosed record label. Some of the sessions for the CD, which will be mastered this week, took place at Open Sky Studio, the Atlanta, Georgia-based facility owned and operated by producer/drummer Mike Froedge (DREADED MARCO, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY, DOUBLEDRIVE, SPEED X), and the Bonehead Studio, also in Atlanta.

Singer Johnny Solinger has finished laying down vocals on the new SKID ROW album, "United World Rebellion - Chapter 1", tentatively due later this year via an as-yet-undisclosed record label. Some of the sessions for the CD took place at Open Sky Studio, the Atlanta, Georgia-based facility owned and operated by producer/drummer Mike Froedge (DREADED MARCO, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY, DOUBLEDRIVE, SPEED X), and the Bonehead Studio, also in Atlanta.

SKID ROW singer Johnny Solinger recently stated about "United World Rebellion - Chapter 1": "This truly is a special record. Can't wait for you all to hear it."

In support of the new SKID ROW CD, the band will embark on a U.K. headlining tour in April.

The group's bassist Rachel Bolan previously told Times-Standard.com about SKID ROW's forthcoming sixth LP, "I think the next record, as far as what Snake [guitarist Dave Sabo] and I are writing, is going back to what people would expect from SKID ROW. We're looking forward to it."

SKID ROW's last album "Revolutions Per Minute", was released on October 24, 2006 via SPV Records.

The band in 2010 parted ways with drummer Dave Gara and replaced him with Atlanta native Rob Hammersmith.

Rob spent many years touring and recording with Atlanta-based rockers ROCKETS TO RUIN and has performed with GUNFIRE 76, the band featuring MURDERDOLLS frontman Wednesday 13.

Video footage of Jordan Rudess' (DREAM THEATER, DIXIE DREGS) collaboration with Rod Morgenstein (WINGER, DIXIE DREGS, STEVE MORSE) at the Korg booth at this year's NAMM (National Association Of Music Merchants) show as the duo reunited to perform the EMERSON LAKE & PALMER 1971 classic "Tarkus" can be seen below. AOL's Noisecreep was in the room for the performance and also had the opportunity to speak with Jordan just before he and Morgenstein took the stage.

The seed for the RUDESS/MORGENSTEIN PROJECT was planted one evening at a sold-out DIXIE DREGS performance in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. In the middle of the set, a power failure shut down the guitar, bass and violin rigs leaving only the keyboards and drums unaffected. Disaster seemed imminent. What followed instead was a blistering ten-minute drum/keyboard power-duo jam which brought down the house. This event marked the beginning of a unique musical collaboration between Rudess and Morgenstein.

The 1997 release of the self-titled RUDESS/MORGENSTEIN PROJECT album was said to be a dream come true for both musicians. All the music was written, arranged and produced by Rod and Jordan and their hope was to capture an audience that was as much in love with music as they were in making it. Incredibly, 98% of the show was completely played live with no tapes and no sequencing.

"The Abandoning", the new video from LOVE & DEATH, the band led by former KORN guitarist Brian "Head" Welch, can be seen below. The clip was filmed November 10, 2012 with director — and UNDERØATH/ex-NORMA JEAN drummer — Daniel Davison.

"The Abandoning" comes off LOVE & DEATH's debut album, "Between Here & Lost", which was released on January 22 via Tooth & Nail Records. Recorded in Nashville with producer Jasen Rauch (RED, BREAKING BENJAMIN) and mixed by Paul Pavao, Ben Grosse (MARILYN MANSON, DISTURBED) and Jim Monti (KORN), the CD consists of 11 tracks, ranging from songs about personal struggle and triumph ("Chemicals", "My Disaster", "Paralyzed") to emotionally charged anthems ("Fading Away", "Watching The Bottom Fall") to a riff-heavy rendition of DEVO's 1980 hit "Whip It".

LOVE & DEATH is comprised of Welch, lead guitarist JR Bareis, bassist Michael Valentine, and drummer Dan Johnson.

Like the album title suggests, "Between Here & Lost" captures the honesty of light and darkness, beauty and tragedy, good and evil, delivered by a band with intense passion and commitment to the message of its music.

"This record was birthed from trials, tribulations, pain, suffering, anxiety, depression, and drama," stated Welch. "However, we came out on top and the end result is a very real, raw and honest record. We are so stoked for people to hear it! From our opening song, 'The Abandoning', to our cover of DEVO's 'Whip it', to our collaboration with Mattie Montgomery from FOR TODAY on 'I W8 4 U', It's an exciting piece of art and the listener will feel the different range of emotions with the lyrics and melodies of each song."

"Between Here & Lost" track listing:

01. The Abandoning
02. Whip It
03. Watching The Bottom Fall
04. By The Way...
05. Meltdown
06. My Disaster
07. I W8 4 U (featuring Mattie Montgomery)
08. Fading Away
09. Paralyzed
10. Chemicals
11. Bruises

LOVE & DEATH formed when Welch decided to have open auditions on YouTube in 2009. "I picked the guys and then had a jam session in Phoenix," says Welch. "Over the last couple of years, there have been a few lineup changes as we went through normal growing pains. The current band has been together and touring for a while now and they are a big part of the new music and the future of LOVE & DEATH."

LOVE & DEATH will be touring extensively in 2013 to support the effort.

According to TMZ.com, former EVANESCENCE guitarist Ben Moody is being sued by Rider Management Inc. for $500,000 in unpaid commissions.

Rider claims to have entered into an agreement with Moody in 2006, granting the company commission on Moody's various musical projects.

After leaving EVANESCENCE in 2003, Moody embarked on a successful career as a songwriter and producer, having written songs for and produced recordings from such artists as Avril Lavigne, Kelly Clarkson, Daughtry and Celine Dion. Moody also released solo music and formed the rock band WE ARE THE FALLEN with several other ex-EVANESCENCE members.

Moody's most recent solo release, "You Can't Regret What You Don’t Remember", was made available in November 2011 via his own label, FNR Records.

On February 26, SST Records will release "Life is Too Short To Not Hold A Grudge", the debut album from GOOD FOR YOU, the brand new band featuring influential guitarist and bandleader Greg Ginn and professional skateboarder and musician Mike Vallely (a.k.a. Mike V). Featuring eleven uniquely distinct high-energy rock songs blistered with themes of betrayal, regret, disillusionment, resolve, determination and independence propelled by Ginn's distinctive, stun-gun guitar, "Life Is Too Short To Not Hold A Grudge" sets a new course for both musicians and delivers a strong statement of intent that begs to be heard.

Recorded at Ginn's Casa Destroy Studios in Taylor, Texas, "Life Is Too Short To Not Hold A Grudge" teams the singular guitarist — named as one of Rolling Stone's "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time" — with the creative, aggressive Vallely for the first time since BLACK FLAG's 2003 reunion shows in Los Angeles where Mike V performed the entire "My War" album from start to finish with the world-renowned punk rock band at the invitation of Ginn.

As the founder, guitarist and driving influence behind BLACK FLAG, Greg Ginn defined the West Coast punk sound and the DIY ethos of punk rock. In many ways, Vallely is the perfect frontman to lead Ginn's first hard rock band since the dissolution of BLACK FLAG. A strong-willed, determined, intense and inspirational figure, Vallely (owner and creative mind behind Elephant Brand Skateboards) has earned a devoted, worldwide following over the course of his two decade plus career as a professional skateboarder and years fronting the bands MIKE V AND THE RATS and REVOLUTION MOTHER. The vocalist first saw BLACK FLAG perform at City Gardens in Trenton, New Jersey in 1984, crediting it as a life-changing experience. Greg and Mike first met in Long Beach, California in May 2003 when MIKE V AND THE RATS started a supporting run of shows for Greg that would eventually lead to the guest vocal spot at the BLACK FLAG reunion shows. A friendship was formed and the two have kept in touch through the years with the intention of collaborating on new music at some point. In February 2012, Ginn presented Vallely with new music and the singer spent the next five months filling notebooks with lyrics. The duo's intense songwriting chemistry generated both a solid set of dynamic songs that would become "Life Is Too Short To Not Hold A Grudge" and the formation of an entirely new band: GOOD FOR YOU. "Life Is Too Short..." features the traits of a benchmark release. Rarely is rock so pure and hard-hitting.

"Greg and I had been talking about writing music together for many years," comments Vallely. "There was no real plan in place to "team up" or anything like that. It was more so just about the music. Creatively and artistically we just found a common road and from that came an output that became this new music and this new record.

"Working with Greg really opened me up as a writer and vocalist," he continues. "His approach to writing, recording and producing was so free that for the first time I feel I was really able to honestly express myself in the studio."

"I can't wait to deliver these songs live with Mike," says Ginn. "I have the feeling that things are going to get wild."

"Life is Too Short To Not Hold A Grudge" track listing:

Side A:

01. I'd Rather Die
02. No Plan B
03. Free
04. Hanging Around
05. Knife in the Face

Side B:

01. Stupid Me
02. Good Sport
03. It's Just Business
04. Dreams
05. Blaze of Glory
06. True Companion

GOOD FOR YOU is currently offering fans a taste of what "Life Is Too Short To Not Hold A Grudge" holds in store, streaming the new song "Hanging Around" via its SoundCloud page. The band is expected to debut a number of additional new songs from the LP prior to the release of the record.

This spring, GOOD FOR YOU will get in the van and hit the road and stages across the U.S. in support of the debut. Stay tuned to the GOOD FOR YOU Facebook and Twitter pages for updates and breaking news.