Western Massachusetts metal titans WITHIN THE RUINS will release their third album, "Elite", on February 26 via eOne/Good Fight Music. The follow-up to 2010's "Invade" will feature the following track listing:

01. Terminal
02. Solice
03. Feeding Frenzy
04. New Holy War
05. The Charm
06. Ataxia II
07. Elite
08. I, Blashpheme
09. Absolute Hell
10. Weightless
11. Dreamland

WITHIN THE RUINS will take part in this year's "Eat Your Heart Out Festival" next month alongside acts like WHITECHAPEL, I SEE STARS and MADBALL.

In existence for nearly 10 years, WITHIN THE RUINS has released two full-length albums and has amassed an impressive touring resume.

Commented guitarist Joe Cocchi: "This is extremely exciting for us. We're proud to be a part of this new family. We look forward to growing as a band with eOne/Good Fight now behind us, and we're thankful to be working with people who care."

WITHIN THE RUINS is: Tim Goergen (vocals), Joe Cocchi (guitar), Andrew Tate (bass), Kevin McGuill (drums).

"Cycles Of Suffering", a brand new song from New York death metal veterans SUFFOCATION, can be streamed using the SoundCloud player below. The track comes off the band's new album, "Pinnacle Of Bedlam", which will be released on February 15 via Nuclear Blast Records. The artwork was handled this time around by Raymond Swanland and can be found below.

Commented SUFFOCATION bassist Derek Boyer: "This artwork is a perfect portrayal of our music. The cover depicts lyrical content like 'scales tip in degradation' and 'hooded messenger of death is now set forth, punishment for all.' Raymond is an absolute BEAST of an artist!"

Added SUFFOCATION guitarist Guy Marchais: "The artwork for 'Pinnacle' brings another element to an already brutal album. Raymond knew exactly what we were looking for and delivered!"

"Pinnacle Of Bedlam" was produced by the band at Full Force Studios in New York with longtime collaborator Joe Cincotta. The mixing and mastering of the effort was handled by Chris "Zeuss" Harris (HATEBREED, ARSIS, SUICIDE SILENCE).

"Pinnacle Of Bedlam" features 10 genre-defining-bone-crushing tracks and also marks the return of drummer Dave Culross, who previously played on the "Despise The Sun" EP. Founding member and former drummer Mike Smith also makes a special guest appearance on the re-recorded "Breeding The Spawn" track "Beginning Of Sorrow".

"Pinnacle Of Bedlam" track listing:

01. Cycles Of Suffering
02. Purgatorial Punishment
03. Eminent Wrath
04. As Grace Descends
05. Sullen Days
06. Pinnacle Of Bedlam
07. My Demise
08. Inversion
09. Rapture Of Revocation
10. Beginning Of Sorrow

SUFFOCATION filmed a video for the track "As Grace Descends" on January 5 at Duff's Brooklyn in in Williamsburg, New York.

Behind-the-scenes footage from the making of the clip can be seen below (courtesy of Jo Schüftan of Horns Up Rocks!).

Stated guitarist Terrance Hobbs: "The meaning of the album title 'Pinnacle Of Bedlam', is the tipping point or most elevated moment as we approach the chaotic climax of this existence. The cosmic scale teeters and the fate of humanity hangs in the balance.

"People should expect nothing less than sheer brutality, as we perform together with this incredible lineup! We feel this CD will be the best SUFFOCATION album ever to have been released and are confident the fans will love it."

"Cycles Of Suffering" audio stream:

"Requiem (Hollywood Forever)", the new video from L.A. GUNS, can be seen below. The song comes off L.A. GUNS' new album, "Hollywood Forever", which was released on June 5, 2012 via Cleopatra Records. The CD was recorded with legendary producer, and old friend, Andy Johns, who has previously worked with LED ZEPPELIN, THE ROLLING STONES, CINDERELLA and VAN HALEN, and who collaborated with L.A. GUNS on their last three albums.

L.A. GUNS spent a few days in Los Angeles shooting three videos to support the record. Videos for "Araña Negra" and "You Better Not Love Me" were also filmed. Videographer Jack Foster was behind the lens for the shoot at the legendary Circus Disco in Hollywood. With an LED logo in the background, the band meshed theatrics with its expected rock energy on the big stage. Later, additional scenes were filmed in L.A.'s colorful Little Mexico and the landmark Hollywood Forever cemetery.

"Hollywood Forever" track listing:

01. Hollywood Forever
02. You Better Not Love Me
03. Sweet Mystery
04. Eel Pie
05. Burn
06. Requiem (Hollywood Forever)
07. I Won't Play
08. Vine St. Shimmy
09. Araña Negra (originally recorded by THE BICICLETAS)
10. Gonna Take You Down
11. Queenie
12. Underneath The Sun
13. Venus Bomb
14. Dirty Black Night
15. Rattlesnake

L.A. GUNS in December announced the addition of guitarist Frankie Wilsey to the group's ranks.

Commented the band: "We first met [Frankie] back in 2007 when he was playing in Stephen Pearcy's band, ARCADE, on the Rock Never Stops tour. Frankie spent more time on our bus than his own, impressing us with hours of classic bootleg videos from the '70s and '80s. He was clearly a rock aficionado, truly a scholar and a gentleman.

"Frankie's been playing guitar since 1977. He formed his first band, HEAD ON, in San Francisco in '81 and then went on to form the hometown Bay Area champions SEA HAGS in '88. He moved to Los Angeles in the early '90s, where he teamed up with Stephen Pearcy of RATT and Fred Coury of CINDERELLA to form ARCADE. In addition to lots of sessions in Los Angeles, Frankie recently toured with legendary singer John Waite and also had a residency in Las Vegas as Joe Perry in the definitive AEROSMITH tribute band AEROMYTH.

"Frankie joins [L.A. GUNS] with guns blazing, ready to tour the world and get involved in writing and recording new original material."

Says Frankie: "I met Phil [Lewis, vocals] and Steve [Riley, drums] years ago, traveling down this road. Found out they're blessed with classic-rock style and a road-warrior ethic that is rare in this weakling world of music.

"I have to say I think this is a very good matchup. Let's hope the fans feel the same."

Due to "extenuating circumstances and musical differences," guitarist Stacey Blades announced his departure from L.A. GUNS in early December.

Blades played on four L.A. GUNS albums: "Rips The Covers Off" (2004), "Tales Trom The Strip" (2005), "Loud And Dangerous: Live From Hollywood" (2006) and "Hollywood Forever" (2012). He also authored a book, "Confessions Of A Replacement Rockstar", which was published in 2009.

"Dark Side Of Me", the new video from New York progressive rockers COHEED AND CAMBRIA, can be seen below.

The band will perform the song live on the January 21 episode of Conan O'Brien's nighttime talk show on TBS, "Conan".

COHEED AND CAMBRIA's latest album, "The Afterman: Ascension", sold 49,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 5 on The Billboard 200 chart.

"The Afterman" is being released in two separate full-length volumes. The first volume, "The Afterman: Ascension", was made available on both physical and digital platforms in the U.S. on October 9, 2012 via Hundred Handed/Everything Evil, and distributed through Fontana/Ingrooves (available in Canada via Universal Music Canada). The second volume, "The Afterman: Descension", is due in February.

A deluxe version of "The Afterman" includes a hardcover coffee-table book with expansive art by Heidi Taillefer and Nathan Spoor with collaborative written work from singer/creator Claudio Sanchez and writer Peter David that creates a song-by-song experience.

The two records follow-up to 2010's "Year Of The Black Rainbow", and feature new bassist Zach Cooper and returning drummer Josh Eppard, who have replaced Michael Todd and Chris Pennie, respectively.

COHEED AND CAMBRIA frontman Claudio Sanchez said of the album: "This is, without a doubt, the most honest record I've ever written. Though all the songs can be interpreted through our main character in the story, they were initially written in a very spontaneous manner. In the past, I've always had a predetermined idea of what the story was going to be when I approached the songs. With 'The Afterman' being a new story within 'The Amory Wars' arc, I allowed the events of my life to drive the concept, and therefore opened up the songwriting to a fuller degree."

Finnish heavy metal monsters LORDI will release their new album, "To Beast Or Not To Beast", on March 8 in Europe (excluding Finland) via AFM Records. The CD will be made available in North America on March 19 through The End Records.

"To Beast Or Not To Beast" was recorded last fall at WireWorld Studio in Nashville, Tennessee with renowned producer Michael Wagener (METALLICA, OZZY OSBOURNE, SKID ROW, DOKKEN, RAVEN, MEGADETH). The CD marks the recording debut of LORDI's new members, keyboardist Hella (replacing Awa) and drummer Mana (replacing Otus).

"The road to this album has truly been paved by hardships," LORDI leader Mr. Lordi says. "However, the new lineup of the band has given us new and fresh touch and an energetic edge to the recording process, and to the album itself."

He added: "The album cover painting is actually a part of a larger picture. The original artwork had this vintage-styled lady holding a horned skull, which, however, was not the main point of the art piece. There was something not quite right with the setting, so I made experiments with various versions and framings. Album title was 'Upgradead' at that point in time, and the painting was done with that title in mind. But now, with a changed concept of the artwork, the title did not seem to fit anymore. We did not consider it an A-class name either. Our guitarist Amen came up with the final title, which we felt suitable and perfect both for the cover artwork and the album."

"To Beast Or Not To Beast" track listing:

01. We're Not Bad For The Kids (We're Worse)
02. I Luv Ugly
03. The Riff
04. Something Wicked This Way Comes
05. I'm The Best
06. Horrifiction
07. Happy New Fear
08. Schizo Doll
09. Candy For The Cannibal
10. Sincerely With Love
11. SCG6: Otus' Butcher Clinic

LORDI previously worked with Wagener on 2010's "Babez For Breakfast", which sold around 1,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 43 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.

British hard rock legends URIAH HEEP have released the following statement:

"Trevor Bolder (bass) is going into hospital for an operation which will require several months' recuperation. Everyone connected with URIAH HEEP wishes Trevor a speedy operation and recovery, and Trevor's wishes are that the band should carry on without him, until he is fit and ready to come back.

"Venerated bass player John [JJ] Jowitt has agreed to deputise for Trevor at short notice, to ensure that the band's show in Israel at the end of January can still go ahead, Having spent 20 years with IQ, plus varying stints with ARK, ARENA, JADIS, FROST and other respected bands, John is renowned for his onstage charisma and has won Classic Rock Society's Bass poll on no less than 10 separate occasions.

"We know all of you out there will support Trevor and the band as we move forward together into 2013. Trevor will use his recuperation period to write songs for the new URIAH HEEP album, the follow-up to 'Into The Wild', which will be put together in the next 12 months."

Added URIAH HEEP guitarist Mick Box: "We all wish Trevor a speedy return to the fold, and in the meantime we are very pleased that JJ has agreed to step in and cover Trev's unique bass panache, so crucial to HEEP's sound. JJ will also contribute to the signature five-part vocal operatics."

Stated John Jowitt: "I have long been an admirer of Trevor Bolder's iconic playing, and it is a huge honour to be asked to stand in for one of the all-time greats of the bass. I intend to bring due respect to the legend that is URIAH HEEP, and I hope I can do justice to Trevor's presence, both on and off stage."

URIAH HEEP's latest album, "Into The Wild", was released in April 2011 via Frontiers Records. The CD was produced by Mike Paxman (STATUS QUO, ASIA) and features cover artwork (see below) by the renowned Greek-American artist Ioannis (LYNYRD SKYNYRD, STYX, SAGA).

A two-minute teaser for "Resurrect Me", the upcoming album from female vocalist Pamela Moore, who is best known for her performance as Sister Mary on QUEENSRŸCHE's 1988 epic release "Operation: Mindcrime" and 2006's sequel "Operation: Mindcrime II", can be seen below.

"Resurrect Me" is described in a press release as "an album written in timeless fashion that explores a creative landscape missed by the music industry. [It] is a masterpiece in collaborative effort showcasing powerful, yet intimate vocal imagery, paired with monstrous power metal grooves, and uncompromising musicianship. The album explores the compelling, the infectious and the dramatic. It connects with the listener on a personal level from the first listen."

"Resurrect Me" is collaboration between Moore and Michael Posch, one of Chicago's favorite power metal guitar players who made noise as a founding member of Century Media artists RADAKKA, and was hand-picked by Moore while living in Chicago. While doing shows with the Pamela Moore band, discussions about the direction of Pamela's next work were tossed about. As discussions continued, so many of the traits and concepts were so purely engrained in Posch's own style, it seemed a divine movement was at hand. Early demo work showed a collective vision and energy that was impossible to ignore.

Even after deciding to return to Seattle as a permanent base, and what seemed to be the end of a chapter, Moore requested to continue focus work with Posch, in hopes of letting the addictive collection of songs continue to develop. Both were reluctant to close the book on the collective focus that was manifesting. Magic was being made and something pushed the pair onward. The album survived location changes, loss of financial support due to the economic times, personal highs and lows, and sheer distance… to finally overcome... and achieve a polish, and brightness, that goes beyond any hardship endured in the crafting … and the character that was built thru the labor, is deeply present in the recordings.

"Resurrect Me" represents a power metal album that will ring in your head for days after listening. Song after song take you down paths of atmospheric, dark, but passionate and blood pumping metal. It's sure to satisfy Moore's QUEENSRŸCHE contingent of fans, but this moves beyond.. into a level of energy all its own. It even boasts a heavyweight guest list, including a solo from shred royalty Jeff Loomis (ex-NEVERMORE) and a duet with master vocalist Ralf Scheepers (PRIMAL FEAR, GAMMA RAY)

Madrid, Spain-based metallers DARK MOOR have entered New Sin Studio in Italy with producer Luigi Stefanini to begin recording their new album.

Commented the band: "Drums and bass have been recorded as well as all rhythm guitars, and now we'll go on with the clean guitars and solos. Alfred [Romero, vocals] has arrived this morning to the studio and will start recording immediately. So far everything sounds great!!!"

DARK MOOR's eighth album, "Ancestral Romance", was released in November 2010 via Scarlet Records.The follow-up to 2009's "Autumnal" was recorded at New Sin Studios in Italy with producer Luigi Stefanini and features cover artwork by artist Samuel Araya (CRADLE OF FILTH, ELVENKING).

Tilburg, Netherlands-based technical/progressive metallers TEXTURES have parted ways with guitarist Jochem Jacobs.

Says the band: "Ladies and gentlemen, it has been a bit quiet around the TEXTURES camp lately. It is for a valid reason: After 12 years being a big part of the band, Jochem Jacobs has decided to leave TEXTURES. It is sad to see him leave, but we respect his decision fully.

"Since the very start of TEXTURES, Jochem has helped the band get to where it is right now and his input will always be part of our music.

"It's a big setback for the band, but we are fully determined to keep on making music. Therefore the search for a replacement guitarist has begun! More news about this coming soon!

"Bear with us, guys! Remember that you, our fans, are the ones that make us want to move on at full-speed and create some more crazy music!"

Adds Jacobs: "I've been with TEXTURES from the very beginning and have had a lot of great adventures in the past 12 years, musically and socially! It was a dream coming true, I was traveling across the world with my best friends and making music!!! What more could you want?!! Strange as it may sound, my priorities changed gradually during the years… Now the time has come for me to start doing more other stuff. There are so many things in life that gives me goosebumps!

"I'm really busy producing great bands and other music at my studio and I want to focus more on that, I will keep on rocking!!!! Also, I will keep being involved with TEXTURES and will continue producing future TEXTURES albums."

TEXTURES's latest album, "Dualism", was released on September 23, 2011 in Europe, South America, Asia and Australia and September 27 in North America. The CD was recorded at Split Second Sound Studio in Amsterdam and was produced by Jochem Jacobs, who helmed all of the band's previous albums. The cover artwork was designed by former TEXTURES frontman Eric Kalsbeek and the band's bass player Remko Tielemans.

Following is a preview of NEAL MORSE's latest concert DVD, Live Momentum. The show was shot with 10 HD cameras on October 11th, 2012 in New York City and was produced by Neal Morse, Mike Portnoy (ex-DREAM THEATER) and Pristine Productions. It contains several extras including a behind-the-scenes tour documentary, 5.1 surround mixes and more.

The five disc set will be released on February 19th, pre-sales will be begin on Februaty 1st. The first 200 coppies sold will be signed by Morse.

A promo trailer is available below:
Live Momentum will be available in February 2013. Go to Radiant Records for updates. More details will be revealed soon.

As previously reported, Morse is gearing up for a European tour with THE FLOWER KINGS, due to kick off on February 22nd in Stockholm, Sweden. A show in Paris, France at Le Trabendo on March 4th has been added to the schedule. Click here for details.

The tour schedule as follows; venues for all shows will be confirmed soon:

February
22 - Stockholm, Sweden
23 - Malmö, Sweden
25 - Hamburg, Germany
26 - Cologne, Germany
27 - Pratteln, Switzerland
28 - Milan, Italy

March
1 - Barcelona, Spain
2 - Madrid, Spain
4 - Paris, France
5 - Rüsselsheim, Germany
6 - Zoertermeer, Holland
7 - London, England

Morse recently issued the following update:

"Starting January 1st, the VIP packages for the Neal Morse / The Flower Kings European Tour 2013 will be available! The meet and greet will take place before the show, so fans won't need to stand in line before the show or stay late after. We worked to create a special experience for you, and as part of that we limited the number of spaces. A maximum of 40 tickets will be available for each show. All info can be found here."

GWAR has written and recorded a song entitled "Wheel Of Punishment" for a new segment on "The Dan Patrick Show", the renowned sports television show and syndicated radio program starring "Football Night In America" co-host Dan Patrick. You can hear the track starting around the four-minute mark in the YouTube clip below.

"The Dan Patrick Show" began airing exclusively on DIRECTV on August 3, 2009, and expanded on the radio show format using Patrick's trademark humor and interaction with his production staff. The series is known for its unique blend of situational comedy, breaking sports news, unparalleled insider access and pop culture commentary.

Dan Patrick, regarded as one of the most accomplished, popular and versatile commentators in sports media today, co-hosts NBC's "Football Night In America" NFL studio show, along with host Bob Costas, analysts Tony Dungy and Rodney Harrison, and NFL insiders Peter King and Mike Florio. "Football Night" is the most-watched NFL studio show on television, drawing a record 8.9 million viewers in 2011.

Legendary NWOBHM (New Wave Of British Heavy Metal) band SATAN has tapped Dario Mollo to mix their new album, "Life Sentence", for a March/April release via Listenable Records. Mollo is part of TONY MARTIN'S HEADLESS CROSS touring project and has worked with numerous artists as a producer and engineer, including SKYCLAD, ANATHEMA, CRADLE OF FILTH, LACUNA COIL, Tony Martin and Glenn Hughes.

"Life Sentence" was recorded September-November 2012 at First Avenue Studios in Newcastle, England and is now being mixed and mastered by Mollo at Damage Inc. Studio in Italy.

"We're really happy to have Dario on board to mix the album," SATAN said in a statement. "We've already had a few tracks back and they sound amazing. We wanted to capture the energy the band produce when playing live and we've done just that."

"Life Sentence" track listing:

01. Time To Die
02. Twenty Twenty Five
03. Cenotaph
04. Siege Mentality
05. Incantations
06. Testimony
07. Tears Of Blood
08. Life Sentence
09. Personal Demons
10. Another Universe

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

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

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

Fittingly, "Life Sentence"' arrival will mark the 30th anniversary of the "Court In The Act" release.

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

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

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

Fan-filmed video footage of SATAN's performance at the Keep It True XIV festival, which was held April 29-30, 2011 at Tauberfrankenhalle in Lauda-Königshofen, Germany, can be seen below.

For more information, visit www.satanmusic.com.

"The Reptile Gods", a brand new song from Greek symphonic metallers NIGHTFALL, can be streamed using the audio player below. The track comes off the band's new album, "Cassiopeia", which will be released on January 18 via Metal Blade Records in Europe. The recordings for the CD took place in four different places, something NIGHTFALL is quite familiar with. Vocals and keys were recorded in Greece (Soundflakes studios and Cyberia) while the drums got hammered down in Germany in the Soundlodge studios. Guitars and bass were recorded in the U.S. in Nashville, Tennessee in the Boomcave studios.

More than on the previous album, "Astron Black & The Thirty Tyrants", in "Cassiopeia" the spirit of old-school heavy metal larks in almost every riff, with MERCYFUL FATE's and KING DIAMOND's guitar style having its top notch, always the NIGHTFALL way.

"Cassiopeia" track listing:

01. Phaethon
02. Oberon & Titania
03. Colonize Cultures
04. The Nightwatch
05. Stellar Parallax
06. Hubris
07. The Reptile Gods
08. Hyperion
09. Akhenaton, The 9th Pharaoh Of The 18th Dynasty
10. The Sand Reckoner
11. Astropolis

NIGHTFALL singer Efthimis Karadimas stated about the "Cassiopeia" concept: "'Cassiopeia' has a specific thesis and though its name is linked to both the constellation and the mythical character of Andromeda's mother, it refers to arrogance as leading characteristic of the human race; the outcome of this and the overweening state of affairs are so popular these harsh days everywhere. The entire world seems to be shifting from its previous position to a new one and all and each one of us that used to feel like masters of our destiny are now starting to wonder about when, where and how this transition will end. It may be a punishment like Cassiopeia and Andromeda who claimed themselves more beautiful even to nereids suffered, or it may be just another change. Time will certainly tell."

Regarding "Oberon & Titania", Karadimas said: "The song is based on Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer's Night Dream' couple; He is the king of fairies and she is the fairy queen. Despite their apparent close relationship, they end up forcefully using their powers and skills against each other; like maniacs blinded by light of passion and haughtiness they drag themselves to the lowest dungeons of nature. It is the ceaseless passion between two beings; passion that unites before it destroys anything around it once unleashed. It is true we are nothing when it comes to sustaining our gratefulness in front of desire. We are born broken in a dilute world poets' admiration cannot disguise. And none can break the broken."

NIGHTFALL is:

Efthimis Karadimas - Vocals
Evan Hensley - Guitar
Constantine - Guitar
Stathis Ridis - Bass
Stathis Kassios - Keyboards
Jörg Uken - Drums

"The Reptile Gods" audio stream:

A promotional clip for the song "Mesmerized By Fire" from Swedish metallers ENFORCER can be seen below. The band also filmed an official video for the track with director, and the band's longtime friend, Gustav Öhman Spjuth. The group states: "We really feel we have something special to show this time, and it's definitely not just any other video."

The "Mesmerized By Fire" seven-inch single will be released on January 18.

The track listing for the effort is as follows:

Side A: "Mesmerized By Fire"
Side B: "You Can Be" (non-album track)

In addition to the limited-edition vinyl, there will also be a digital release.

Commented ENFORCER guitarist/vocalist Olof Wikstrand: "'Mesmerized By Fire' is more or less the title track from the 'Death By Fire' album. I think within four minutes it captures pretty much everything about ENFORCER: intensity and power mixed with a touch of melody and melancholy. The B-side is a cover of NAGAZAKI's 'You Can Be'. It is a track with mega potential from a band that unfortunately never made it in the '80s."

"Mesmerized By Fire" is available for free download at NuclearBlast.de (e-mail sign-up required).

ENFORCER will release its new album, "Death By Fire", on February 1 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD artwork was created by Jonathan Hultèn of Necromantic Art and can be seen below.

"Death By Fire" track listing:

01. Bells Of Hades
02. Death Rides This Night
03. Run For Your Life
04. Mesmerized By Fire
05. Take Me Out Of This Nightmare
06. Crystal Suite
07. Sacrificed
08. Silent Hour / The Conjugation
09. Satan

ENFORCER will hit the road with GRAND MAGUS and the NWOBHM legends ANGEL WITCH in February.

ENFORCER's second album, "Diamonds", was released in May 2010 in Europe by Earache Records and in the rest of the world through Heavy Artillery.

Having released its debut album, "Into the Night", in November 2008, ENFORCER kicked open the floodgates for the return of traditional heavy metal, paving the way for many other young bands to follow. With critical acclaim pouring in from fans and the international music press, ENFORCER wasted no time taking their show to the road for their first European and American tours as well as a litany of appearances at many of Europe's most highly regarded festivals.

MEGADETH mainman Dave Mustaine has posted the following message on the band's Facebook page:

"I just wanted to take this time on a peaceful Sunday to stop and thank you for your tremendous support. I know not everyone here is a fan, but that's OK too; this message will be waiting for you when you change your opinion of me/us. Until then, I want to sincerely thank those of you for something you have no idea that you've done, but that is really a righteous and unbelievable thing to do. You see, all faults aside, I really am trying to live my life differently today, and part of that was in finding something to believe in.

"One of the things that has happened since I started this transformation is getting involved with helping widows and orphans, and helping the homeless. Now, here's what you've done...

"I was approached with an opportunity, and thanks to your unwavering support, my family and I have been able to fund a soup kitchen in Haiti with a ministry called Outside The Bowl, and you will be proud to know that when it is started (which will be very soon), we will be feeding up to 8,000 meals a day to the less fortunate.

"I am so very grateful, and I love you all so very much (yes, even you haters), because even when I am being vilified and having my character assassinated, I can find comfort knowing up to 8,000 meals will be served each day, along with a healthy serving of love and some spiritual nourishment as well.

"Again, I cannot thank you enough.

"Love and bruises…"

Eclipse Records has announced the signing of Stockholm, Sweden-based modern rockers BLOWSIGHT to a North American deal. The band just wrapped up production of its brand new full-length album, "Life & Death", to be released in North America on April 9.

A press release states: "Sweden has always been a guarantee for the export of infamous rock bands and epic pop melodies; however… this is rarely combined in one package. BLOWSIGHT have internalized the essence of both, and united them to create an extremely amazing, unique band with epic potential for success."

"I can honestly say that I haven't been this excited about signing an artist to Eclipse for a long, long time," states Eclipse Records president Chris Poland. "BLOWSIGHT are just amazing in every way possible. They're different, fresh, new and just what the music scene needs. I think what makes them so unique is the diversity of their songwriting."

"BLOWSIGHT is like a big melting pot of everyone's favorite music" states the band's lead vocalist/guitarist, Nick Red. "It doesn't matter if it's influenced by METALLICA, QUEEN, LADY GAGA, SHINEDOWN, TRIVIUM or MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE… everything fits together. If we want to break stuff, we write a metal song, if we're feeling emotional, we write a ballad. Sometimes we even write pop songs that sound like they could be on Top 40 stations… to us, it doesn't matter what we play, just as long as we play what we want."

BLOWSIGHT's second album, "Dystopia Lane", came out in the fall of 2010. An EP, "Shed Evil", followed in time for the band's appearance at the 2011 edition of the Wacken Open Air festival in Wacken, Germany.

BLOWSIGHT is:

Nick Red (lead vocals/guitar)
Seb (guitar/vocals)
Mao (bass/vocals)
Fabz (drums/vocals)

Alchemy Records marked the end of days, December 21st, 2012, with the release of Burnt Belief, a progressive instrumental collaboration between bass player COLIN EDWIN (PORCUPINE TREE, METALLIC TASTE OF BLOOD, ex-WISE HEADS) and guitarist/composer JON DURANT.

A new video for the album track 'Semazen' is now available.

"The video concept follows from the theme of the album--questioning one's belief systems, and letting go of superstitions," said Durant, who also filmed and directed the video. "The woman in the video, after longing to be free of the shackles that have been placed upon her, is able to shed her inhibitions and live the life she wants to live."
Burnt Belief was released through Alchemy Records in North America and is available on iTunes, CDBaby, Burning Shed and Amazon.
Burnt Belief marks the second time that the two musicians have worked together since Edwin contributed bass to Durant's 2011 release, Dance Of The Shadow Planets. It was recorded at three studios, two in the US and one in the UK, with Edwin and Durant exchanging digital files over the Internet. Additional musicians were later brought in, with Jerry Leake on percussion and Geoff Leigh on flute.

Perhaps best described as a post-rock concept album, Burnt Belief draws from ethnic, ambient and electronic elements to create a cohesive and emotional album, inspired by a fundamental, universal question.
Timed to coincide with the end of the Mayan calendar (and the end of the world, as many have since prophesied), the album considers the polarization between religion and science, while highlighting the dissonance between belief and reality. Burnt Belief deals with issues of intellect, fundamentalism and fanaticism, set to an ambient and progressive aural landscape.

Blending electronic rhythms and acoustic elements, the musicians wove soundscapes from unique sources - synth, 12-string and cloud guitar textures, melodic fretless bass, prepared piano and Middle Eastern hand percussion - along with searing lead guitars, to tell a series of instrumental stories. Burnt Belief takes the listener on an immersive journey, with repeated listens revealing new layers and tones to the depth of the subject. While the album is intended to be a complete experience, the centerpiece comes with the dual attack of 'Balthazar's Key' and 'Uncoiled', just over 20 minutes of compelling sounds that, according to Durant, "kick enough booty to make anyone sit up and take notice."
The title of the album was inspired by Edwin's reading of social psychologist Leon Festinger's When Prophecy Fails, an account of a doomsday UFO cult in the 1950s. According to Edwin, "It got me thinking, what are all beliefs really about and where do they come from?" - a question that Durant had also been interested in for some time.

Check out an album trailer below:
More audio samples below:

Michigan-based progsters TILES have issued the following update:

"The studio is reserved in March to begin tracking drums and probably a bit of bass for the next Tiles CD. We'll split our time between Detroit and Toronto. It's been a long writing and rehearsing process, but we've worked hard to pave some new ground and pull in new influences that have captured our fancy. Terry Brown (RUSH, FATES WARNING) will again produce and engineer. It's been a great experience working with someone of his caliber so we're looking forward to another turn. Sure, we don't always get our way; but very few artists can be objective about their work."
Tiles last studio album was 2008's Fly Paper.

In September Tiles released Off The Floor, containing over 75-minutes of "live in the studio" performances which offer new perspectives on standout tracks from each of Tiles' five recordings.
Complete with a couple new interludes and adventurous extended jams, Off The Floor gives the listener more than a carbon copy of the studio versions. Especially noteworthy are guest appearances by Matthew Parmenter (DISIPLINE) on violin, vocals, and mellotron and the Motor City Horns' flautist Keith Kaminski. An expanded arrangement of 'The Wading Pool' is included as a bonus track.

Off The Floor features the following tracklisting:
'Landscrape'
'Token Pledge'
'Modification'
'Capture The Flag'
'Changing The Guard'
'Segue/Window Dressing (Part IV)'
'Dragons, Dreams And Daring Deeds'
'Dress Rehearsal'
'Hide In My Shadow'
'A Minor Interlude'
'Checkerboards'
'Wading Pool'

More on Tiles at this location.

British metalcore act ASKING ALEXANDRIA has completed work on its third album with renowned producer Joey Sturgis (THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, EMMURE) at the Foundation Recording Studios in Indiana and NRG in Hollywood for an early 2013 release via Sumerian Records. Guitarist Ben Bruce confirmed to GuitarWorld.com that, as previously reported, the sound of the material falls somewhere between SLIPKNOT and MÖTLEY CRÜE. "There's a lot of heavy riffage on this record, whereas in the past we relied more on rhythms and breakdowns," he said. "So in that respect it's very much like old SLIPKNOT. But then the choruses and a lot of the bridges are more rock-based, which is our MÖTLEY CRÜE side."

Bruce was quick to add, however: "The album is by no means a regurgitation of the Eighties. If kids buy this record thinking it's going to sound like [MÖTLEY CRÜE's 1987 effort] 'Girls, Girls, Girls', it doesn't fucking sound like 'Girls, Girls, Girls'. It sounds like ASKING ALEXANDRIA."

Bruce previously told Billboard.com that that the follow-up to 2011's "Reckless & Relentless" will contain 13-15 songs, six of which will be "radio-friendly" while the rest will be "our usual balls-to-the-wall kind of stuff."

Regarding the lyrical direction of ASKING ALEXANDRIA's new material, Bruce told GuitarWorld.com: "It's a lot more mature than anything we've done before. It's not so much about partying and fucking random girls and doing drugs and stuff. We've actually taken the time to write something that's truly meaningful to us. The last two records were great, and we loved them, but we were different people then. We were a lot younger and had less experience. When you compare the albums, it will definitely show how much we've grown."

Montreal viking thrash metallers TALAMYUS have issued the following update:

"We would like to announce that we have once again added new blood to our vanguard and are preparing for war!

First, we would like to recap the addition of lead vocalist Krystal Koffin to the band in April of 2012.

Having her vocal in the foreground has added a sick demonic edge within our songs. Combined with Ben’s backing vocal, we have transcended our force into the depths from which we spawn. However, the growth of Talamyus has not stopped there!
We are honoured to announce the arrival of drummer Etienne Gallo to the band (AUGURY, NEURAXIS). He will be a permanent member of the Talamyus family, as we are now preparing our fourth release. We are greatly anticipating the new dynamics Etienne will add to our mission of metal! We are sure old and new Talamyus fans will be pleased with the direction we have chosen to take for the next album. It will still have the Talamyus feel, but with an altered atmosphere.

We are very eager to share it with you all. Keep checking in as we will be releasing new content continually and very soon!

Thank you all for supporting Talamyus throughout the years
and for years to come. You are all what matters in our world!"

For information on Talamyus and updates go to their official Facebook page here.

LAMB OF GOD frontman Randy Blythe will stand trial February 4 on charges of manslaughter in the death of a fan at a Prague, Czech Republic concert two years ago.

The court originally had three months to set a trial date after announcing on December 3 that Blythe was officially indicted on manslaughter charges.

Writing on his Instagram account, Blythe said earlier today (Sunday, January 13): "The last two or three days I have been getting ready mentally to leave my home and return to Prague to do this whole trial thing in early February. It's not something I particularly WANT to do; but inside, my gut and heart tells me it is the RIGHT thing to do. I cannot turn my back on the right thing."

Blythe is facing the possibility of conviction and a long-term jail sentence after a 2010 incident in which a fan attending a LAMB OF GOD show died almost a month later, allegedly from injuries sustained when he was thrown off the stage. Blythe's predicament has galvanized the heavy rock community, with artists across the hard rock genre pledging their support.

Shortly after being released from the Pankrác prison in Prague in early August, Blythe sat down with Mark Holmberg of WTVR-TV — the CBS television affiliate based in Richmond, Virginia — to discuss his 37-day stay at the notorious Czech Republic penitentiary (see video below).

Asked about his vow to go back to Prague if there is a trial, Randy said, "I feel ethically responsible to go back there and face this charge. [The victim's] family right now is in a lot of pain, and they deserve some answers. To lose a child is the worst possible thing a human can go through, I think .. I want my name cleared. I have to go around the world and tour, you know. That's what I do. I'm not going to hide here. I'm an innocent man. I'm going to go to court and see what happens."

Regarding what the "worst-case scenario" is if he returns to Prague for a trial, Blythe told Metal Hammer magazine, "Ten years with no time off for good behavior. For my particular charge — we're saying manslaughter, but it's assault in the fourth degree with intent, resulting in the death of this young man — the sentence for that is five to 10 years with no time off. So the worst-case scenario is that get out when I'm 51, 52 years old. It's not something I really try to dwell on too much, because it's scary. I don't want to go to prison, I don't want that to happen, but the fact of the matter is it could happen. I will deal with it as it comes, that's all! can do. If you have one foot in the past and one foot in the future, you're pissing on the present. And right now, all! have is the present so I prepare myself the best I can. My band is behind me and my family's behind me and we're gonna do our best to prove my innocence. But worrying about a nebulous uncertain future, or being super-bummed out that l went to prison for 37 days does me no good."

LAMB OF GOD's manager, Larry Mazer, confirmed in a statement last month that Blythe will defend himself in the case. "We believe that Randy responded professionally to the numerous amount of fans rushing the stage that day, a number of them captured on videos that have been posted on the Internet," Mazer said. "We have testimony from the venue operator that acknowledges lax security and an improper barricade being used that evening. Numerous testimonies from fans also were contradictory as to the actions of the multiple fans that tried to access the stage."

According to the New York Post, AEROSMITH lead singer Steven Tyler and his fiancée of one year, Erin Brady, have "officially" split.

It was previously reported in October that Tyler and Brady were having trouble in their relationship but "it's over for good this time," a source "close to the couple" told the paper.

Brady reportedly did not accompany Tyler when he vacationed in Hawaii with his extended family over New Year's.

Previously an accountant for Tyler on tour, Brady told Oprah Winfrey in a 2011 interview that although she bore witness to the worst of Steven's bad-boy behavior, she knew his ways could be reformed and she wanted to be the one to do it.

"I saw him, how he behaved… badly," she said, according to ETOnline.com, telling Oprah she had to step up to the plate as the womanizing continued when their relationship became romantic. Her strategy was to "play" as he would when Tyler would stray, which he admits was a wake-up call and an instigator towards treating the women of his life with the respect they deserve.

"There was some behavior I am ashamed of and I shouldn't have done," Steven explained. When asked bluntly if he believed he could remain monogamous with Erin, Tyler confidently replied that he could. "I don't want to hurt anybody again," he said. "For all the divorces I've had I've hurt those girls deeply."

Steven and Erin dated for six years, since Tyler divorced Teresa Barrick. He was also married to Cyrinda Foxe from 1978 to 1987.

According to the BBC, Claude Nobs, who founded the world-renowned Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, has died after a skiing accident.
The 76-year-old suffered a fall while practising cross-country skiing during the Christmas holidays.

He had been in hospital but passed away on 10 January, a statement on the festival's website said.

The festival, which takes place on the shores of Lake Geneva, has featured the likes of Miles Davis and Santana.

"For all of us, who were fortunate enough to cross your path, you will always remain the one who questioned certainties," the statement said.

Organisers had previously said that Nobs' accident would not impact this year's event, which runs 5 - 20 July.

"We carry, and will continue to carry on in your spirit, everything you taught us," Thursday's statement added.

The festival was co-founded by Nobs and Atlantic Records president Nesuhi Ertegun in 1967, who booked CHARLES LLOYD and KEITH JARRETT as the first headliners.

Nobs even earned himself a mention as "funky Claude" who rescues children in DEEP PURPLE's 1973 song Smoke On The Water.

The song is about a fire that burned down the Montreux Casino, where the festival was held, during a Frank Zappa concert in 1971.

"Perspectives", the new video from Austrian metallers THE SORROW, ca be seen below. The song comes off the band's fourth album, "Misery Escape", which entered the official chart in Austria at position No. 18. Released on October 26, 2012 in Europe and November 6, 2012 in North America via Napalm Records, the CD was produced and mixed by Sky Van Hoff and mastered by Jens Dreesen.

"Misery Escape" track listing:

01. Retracing Memories
02. The Escape
03. Burial Bridge
04. My Oblivion
05. A Reason
06. Buried In The Deep
07. A Thin Red Line
08. Perspectives
09. Lost Chapters
10. Dead Home
11. Follow The Lights

Limited-edition bonus tracks:

12. Nails & Daggers
13. Hold on Hope

THE SORROW's third, self-titled album, entered the official chart in Austria at position No. 24.

Swiss hard rock veterans KROKUS peformed the title track of their new album, "Dirty Dynamite", on last night's "Swiss Awards" TV show. You can now watch video footage of their appearance below.

"Dirty Dynamite" will be released on February 22 in Europe via Sony Music and in North America on March 5, 2013 via The End Records.

Sony Music is offering a free download of the title track at this location (e-mail sign-up required). It was the last song that was recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London, England at 5 o'clock in the morning. Bassist Chris Von Rohr added some honky tonk piano licks on the original "Lady Madonna" piano at the studio.

"Dirty Dynamite" marks the return of KROKUS guitarist Mandy Meyer after 30 years.

Chris Von Rohr, along with vocalist Marc Storace, recently laid down bass and vocal tracks at London, England's Abbey Road Studios for the band's 17th album, "Dirty Dynamite". Sound engineer for the recording sessions is again Dennis Ward, who also recorded the band's last album, "Hoodoo".

KROKUS 2012 is:

Marc Storace - Vocals
Chris Von Rohr - bass
Fernando Von Arb - Lead Guitar
Mark Kohler - Rhythm Guitar
Mandy Meyer - Guitar

Sitting behind the drums on KROKUS' upcoming tour will be several guest drummers, including Kosta Zafiriou (PINK CREAM 69), who also played on the new CD.

Drummer Freddy Steady left KROKUS in May 2011 because he "concluded that he really wanted to play music just for fun in small clubs rather than conquering the world, playing arenas on huge stages with pyro props, etc.," according to guitarist Fernando Von Arb.