Gene Simmons says that what he has seen of the KISS avatar show will "blow" fans' minds.

The technology being used for the KISS avatars, originally developed for ABBA's "Voyage" show in London, will allow KISS to stay "on the road" in retirement.

The KISS avatars were created by Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) and were financed and produced by the Swedish company Pophouse Entertainment, which is behind "ABBA Voyage".

Simmons addressed the KISS avatars in a new interview with Artists On Record Starring ADIKA Live!. Regarding what the avatar show will look like, he said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Look, part of the fun of Christmas is when you open your present, you're shocked and surprised and hopefully delighted. So why would I tell you in February what you're gonna get for Christmas?"

He continued: "There's so much hard work being done behind the scenes, and what I've seen will blow your mind. So in a very real way, our end is really like the caterpillar becoming the butterfly. The end is the beginning."

This past December, Simmons said that "about 200 million" dollars is being invested into the KISS avatar show.

Unlike the "ABBA Voyage" show, which recreates a 1970s-era ABBA concert in a custom-built London arena, KISS's avatars that appeared at the band's final concert in New York on December 2, 2023 will not be as grounded in reality as ABBA's digital replicas. According to BBC News, the KISS avatars will see the band appear as fantasy-based superheroes who are eight feet tall, breathing fire and shooting electricity from their fingers, while floating above the audience.

No details have been announced yet for KISS's plan with the band's avatars. "We're going to figure it out after the tour," Pophouse CEO Per Sundin said prior to the final show at Madison Square Garden. "Is it a KISS concert in the future? Is it a rock opera? Is it a musical? A story, an adventure? These four individuals already have superpowers. We want to be as open as possible."

The avatars will now be available for live shows around the world and in digital online settings, which some people collectively refer to as the metaverse.

KISS will reportedly become the first American band to go fully virtual and stage its own avatar show.

JOCOUP Creative, an experiential design firm co-founded by former Universal Creative director Thierry Coup and BRC and Universal Creative alumni Johanna "Jojo" Atilano, is also involved in the project. Coup has been announced as creative director of the KISS avatar show.

After years of being on the "back-burner," Earthburner has finally arrived and is now armed with their debut album, Permanent Dawn, which was recorded at Criteria Recording Studios (Black Sabbath, Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles) in Miami, FL, produced by Tommy McWilliams (Elegant Weapons) and Jeremy Wagner, mixed by Scott Creekmore (Broken Hope, Putrid Pile, Morta Skuld), and mastered by Mike Fuller (Obituary, Death, Broken Hope, Judas Priest) of Fullersound in Davie, FL. M-Theory Audio recently signed Earthburner with plans to release Permanent Dawn later this year.


In anticipation of this upcoming release, Earthburner has now debuted the first single off the record: "Slaves To The Screen." A 3D-animated video for the track (created by video jedi, Andrea Mantelli of Andrea Mantelli Productions).







Earthburner vocalist and lyricist Devin Swank has this to say about "Slaves To The Screen": "This song was written about how our world seems to be fixated with what new products are out, what clothing you should wear, what food to stuff your fat face with and what bullshit is flooding the mainstream and how people completely immerse themselves in it. It's a perfect welcoming for Earthburner as we're just 4 guys who stick their middle fingers in the face of the norm and play classick death metal/grindcore! I'm so excited for this to get to the ears of people who are fans of death/grind and all things heavy and with the help of M-Theory Audio it can get into the hands of such people too."


Regarding Earthburner's "Slaves To The Screen" single and video, plus Permanent Dawn, guitarist Jeremy Wagner says: "I'm super-pumped about our first single, 'Slaves To The Screen,' being released for the world to hear. This song is one of my favorite tracks on the album...and as a pre-album release track, I feel it properly represents what Earthburner is all about—and what people can expect from our 'Permanent Dawn' album. The song is so ferocious and pummeling that it just makes me want to DESTROY SHIT! Haha! Moreover, the 3D animated video that accompanies the single is so freaking cool. Video designer—Andrea Mantelli—absolutely killed it!


"Speaking of the Permanent Dawn album, it's been a longtime coming for me. I've wanted to do a full-length Earthburner album forever. I'm far beyond happy that the stars aligned...I got my dream lineup and I got the opportunity to make this debut album.


"Relevant to the 'stars aligning,' I think that things happen for a reason because my dream lineup happened at the perfect time, AND, we signed a great record deal with Marco Barbieri and M-Theory Audio—this is a huge, full-circle thing for me because Marco is the guy who originally signed Broken Hope to Metal Blade Records and set my musical journey into motion in a huge way. So, this album is extra special to me on numerous levels. Marco has always believed in me and my music and THAT means the world to me.


"I've said before that Earthburner is a separate monster from Broken Hope in terms of style, genre, tuning, vocals, and pure blasting ferocity. And my insane love for Terrorizer's 'World Downfall' album and old Napalm Death and others inspired me and really drove me to do something faithful to this über-extreme genre.


"Thanks to my stepson Tyler, and Devin Swank from Sanguisugabogg, they lit a fire under my ass to bring Earthburner back in a big way, full-time.


"Huge thanks to all of the fans of the original Earthburner EP, everyone who's been waiting for Earthburner to come along with an album. The album is on the way for release in 2024—for now, enjoy 'Slaves To The Screen'! We can't wait for you hear the 'Permanent Dawn' album—and I hope you all get to see Earthburner on stage!"





(Photo – Corey Soria)

In early February, Swedish metallers SABATON announced that they had been rejoined by guitarist Thobbe Englund. This news came a month after Tommy Johansson revealed his departure from the group.

Thobbe originally joined SABATON in April 2012 and amicably parted ways with the band in July 2016 to focus on his personal life and expand his creativity. Eight years later, he's back and ready to hit the global stage once more.

Englund recorded two studio albums with SABATON, namely "Heroes" (2014) and "The Last Stand" (2016),and assisted with the songwriting of some very popular songs including "Shiroyama" and "Fields Of Verdun", among others.

Speaking to Brutal Planet Magazine about how return to SABATON came about, Thobbe said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "It was quite funny, actually, because me and my wife and, of course, my son, we celebrated New Year's Eve together with [SABATON bassist and manager] Pär [Sundström] and his wife. They came here [to my house] like three minutes before midnight, so we were, like, 'Will they make it? Yeah. All right. Happy New Year.' Then we had had a couple of beers, and a couple of beers became a couple of more beers, and we kept on going like until five, six in the morning. Luckily, we had a babysitter. And it was in the air. I said this somewhere that we were listening to this song by SCORPIONS, 'The Best Is Yet To Come'. And the chorus goes something like… Well, I don't remember exactly, but I remember the line. We were kind of drunk, and it went something like this: 'How can I live without you?' And we were like looking into each other's eyes, and we knew."

He continued: "I didn't have to think about it that much, because my son is five now. His favorite band is SABATON. When I left the band, it looked completely different for me privately. It was, like, we wanted to have a kid. And then, you know how it is with kids when they're toddlers and all that. You wanna be home, you wanna be there. And during all these years, for me being home, being together with [my son] and the family, the band has grown immensely for eight years, which means that we won't be away that much anymore like we used to. One year — I think it was in '14 or '15 — we were away 270 days that year. I went to the wrong building when I came home from a tour, and [my wife] was standing on the balcony on the other one, 'Hey, this is where we live.' 'Ah, okay.' So, I mean, now it's a completely different thing, and everybody in the band has their own family. So, yeah, it's, like, let's do this until we're 85 years old now. It's just an open road."

Reflecting on when he was officially asked to rejoin SABATON, Thobbe said: "[New Year's Eve] was the moment when I realized that something inside of me has told me that if the question comes, yes, of course. I belong to SABATON. That's my family, that's my best friends. So it was just, everything kind of dawned on me. 'Of course, yes. If the question comes, I'll say yes.' And I think it was a week later, we had a birthday party for [my son], and me and Joakim [Brodén, SABATON singer] had been writing a song that's gonna be on this new album. And he just texted me a couple of days before. And he was, like, 'Are you gonna be at home Sunday? Because, yeah, I'm just coming by.' I was, 'Yeah, yeah, of course. Just come by. I'll put on some coffee,' and like that. I thought it was that we were going to go through some details in that song and just to [decide], do we change this or that? Because he usually always kind of writes or tells me what's gonna happen when he comes, if it's just, 'Let's drink coffee and talk bullshit' or if it's something [else]. And I was, like, 'Hmm, why didn't he say what his plans are? That's a little odd, for being him.' But I didn't think more about that. And then he came, and we sat there drinking coffee, and we talked about something. And then he was, like, 'By the way, how do you feel about putting those camo pants back on?' And I was, like, 'All right. So here is the question. It actually came, like one week later.'"

Englund admitted that he was "a little bit shocked" at being asked to return to SABATON. "I didn't think take anything for granted," he explained. "I mean, maybe they had somebody else, because I stepped away almost eight years ago. So I never took anything for granted that they would even ask me. I was, like, if they ask me, I'm gonna be super happy and I will say yes.' So but then the question came, and for me it was, like… We had a long talk about how things are today compared to back in '16, and all that. Where SABATON is today — a lot of stuff has happened during the eight years I've been away. So, yeah, I was, like… I told him, 'Let me think about it and I'll call you.' I just talked to my wife for 10 minutes, 15 minutes, and I called him [and I told him], 'Hey, man. I'm in.' And that was it. And it was really emotional. And then Chris [Rörland, SABATON guitarist] and Hannes [Van Dahl, SABATON drummer] called. We were [giddy] like school girls."

When Thobbe's return to SABATON was first announced, Pär said in a statement: "This is a full-circle moment for SABATON and we are beyond excited to have Thobbe rejoin the band. He's a talented guitarist, songwriter and a kind guy who we have a lot of fun with. We didn't even need to hold auditions with other guitar players. All that was needed was to spend New Year's Eve together to know that the time was right for Thobbe's return."

Echoing Pär's sentiments, Joakim stated: "This decision was a no-brainer for us as a band and for Thobbe. He knows the drill and is the perfect fit. This is a great outcome, and we think everyone is going to be psyched about the news! The time is right. Welcome back, brother!"

Meanwhile, Van Dahl added: "Who? Thobbe f***ng Englund, that's who! The man is back! I'm happy to once again share the stage with one of my best friends! Welcome back, brother!"

And finally, Rörland said: "I'm beyond excited and happy for the return of the king! We've had so many good times together, both on stage and off stage. It's gonna be great to share the stage again. Welcome back and welcome home my brother! Love ya!"

SABATON is currently preparing for a 19-show U.S. tour with heavy metal legends JUDAS PRIEST, which kicks off on April 18 in Wallingford, Connecticut and wraps up on May 22 in Syracuse, New York. The five-piece band is also currently in the studio working on its 11th studio album.

SABATON 2024 is:

Joakim Brodén - vocals
Pär Sundström - bass
Chris Rörland - guitars
Thobbe Englund - guitars
Hannes Van Dahl - drums

When Johansson announced his exit from SABATON on January 20, the band said in a statement: "After 7 amazing years in the band, our guitarist, Tommy, has decided to leave SABATON to pursue his own path. We wish him nothing but the best on his journey. We have been a close family and we will continue to support him in the adventures that await him in the future.

"Tommy joined the band in 2016 but he has been a close friend of SABATON ever since our first meeting at the end of a concert in 2005. As a valued member of the band, he has contributed to countless immortal memories.

"Tommy's departure from SABATON will not be effective immediately. He will stay on to ensure that all goes smoothly with the handover to our next guitarist.

"While a small part of his large heart will always remain within SABATON, we all know that he must follow his dreams.

"Even though we will not wake up daily in the tour bus next to him, we are sure that our paths will cross again many times in the future, both on and off the stage.

"Fly on your wings and strings brother!"

Tommy added in a separate statement: My dear friends! After 7 glorious years of Heavy Metal, I have decided to step down as the guitarist of SABATON.

"This has been the hardest decision I've ever made in my entire life.

"As many of you may know, I do a lot of things outside of SABATON. I play with another band, perform with various artists, and have a career as a singer that I've put aside for years to focus on SABATON. After doing this for seven years, I feel it's time to start following my heart. This means I will no longer tour with my brothers in SABATON and will not meet all you lovely SABATON supporters on the upcoming tours with the band.

"I will never quit playing music. I'll still be touring with MAJESTICA and other projects, but not on the same level as SABATON of course. I am sure I will meet you lovely fans on the road again in the future.

"My brothers in SABATON and the best crew in the world will forever be my second family and I will miss spending time with all these wonderful people. We had so much fun together every day. I've come to learn so much about life, about music and about touring that I wouldn't have learned anywhere else.

"A massive thank you to all you lovely SABATON fans for accepting me as the new guitarist in 2016. I am certain you will accept the person who takes over after me.

"All the best to you all and I'll see you again soon!"

SABATON's follow-up to 2022's "The War To End All Wars" album is tentatively due later this year via Nuclear Blast Records.

SABATON recently released the animated movie "The War To End All Wars", which tells the stories from the "The War To End All Wars" album. It begins with "Sarajevo", a song about the assassination of Austrian archduke Franz Ferdinand, which sparked World War I. It ends with "Versailles", about the 1918 Treaty Of Versailles that ended the war. SABATON also has the Sabaton History channel on YouTube, which includes historical looks at World War II, Swedish military history and even the 1995 massacre at Srebrenica, among others.

In September 2022, SABATON announced a new EP trilogy titled "Echoes Of The Great War". The trilogy features new songs specifically about World War I, coupled with topically related catalog music.

The last EP in the "Echoes Of The Great War" EP trilogy, "Stories From The Western Front", was made available in April 2023 on all platforms. It features a never-heard-before cover of MOTÖRHEAD's well-known track "1916".

SABATON climbed the international charts with its tenth studio album, "The War To End All Wars", securing No. 1 positions in Germany, Austria, Sweden, Poland, Hungary and Finland. Having achieved the top position for the second time in Germany, Sweden and Finland, the album peaked at No. 1 in Poland, Hungary and Austria for the first time in the band’s career. This and additional outstanding results in other territories have made "The War To End All Wars" SABATON's most successful album so far.

On February 28, Nita Strauss and Wolfgang Van Halen, who are currently on tour together with their respective bands, sat down for an interview with Steve Black of Detroit's WRIF radio station. Asked by Black to say a few words about Wolfgang's father, legendary VAN HALEN guitarist Eddie Van Halen, Nita told the former VAN HALEN bassist and current MAMMOTH WVH frontman directly: "I was at your last VAN HALEN show [in October 2015]. I was up on the lawn at the last show at the Hollywood Bowl. And, yes, we've shared tour managers, we've shared a lot of crew over the years, and just as a fan, I was always in awe of your dad's complete and utter joy in his guitar playing and always wanted to emulate that myself."

When Eddie died in October 2020 at the age of 65, Nita took to her social media to write: "The word 'innovator' gets thrown around a lot in this industry. In my humble opinion, there is no one it applies to more than the great Eddie Van Halen.

"Thank you for being THE innovator, the ultimate pioneer of these six strings and blazing a trail for so many of us to attempt to follow," she added. "Forever an inspiration. RIP".

Back in January 2020, just nine months before Eddie's death, Nita was asked by "The Blairing Out With Eric Blair Show" if she had ever met the iconic VAN HALEN guitarist. She responded at the time: "I haven't met him in person, no. I did have the opportunity to try out a product of his before it came to market though, and one of the coolest things was that the company that produced it said that he had specifically — I don't know how true this is; maybe they were just being nice to me — but they did say that he had specifically said, 'Give it to Nita,' because he liked what I did. So if that's even remotely true, it's a huge honor."

Strauss is currently on the second leg of a national North American tour with MAMMOTH WVH, supporting her most recent solo album, "The Call Of The Void", out now via Sumerian Records.

The Los Angeles-born guitarist has become a force to be reckoned with, dazzling over a million audience members per year around the world. Fans may recognize Nita as the touring guitarist for rock legend Alice Cooper and superstar Demi Lovato, the official guitarist of the Los Angeles Rams, as well as her successful career as a solo artist. She has played multiple sports events, including NASCAR races and WWE pay-per-views, most notably her critically acclaimed performance at "WrestleMania 34" in 2018.

"The Call Of The Void" debuted as the No. 1 Top New Artist album on the Billboard chart, No. 1 on the iTunes Rock chart, and No. 4 on the overall iTunes chart, behind only Taylor Swift.

With the album's first single, "Dead Inside" featuring David Draiman of DISTURBED, Nita became the first female solo artist to have a No. 1 single at rock radio in 32 years. The album also features guest appearances from Alice Cooper, Lzzy Hale, Alissa White-Gluz, Dorothy, Chris Motionless and guitar legend Marty Friedman.

Nita released 2018's "Controlled Chaos" to mass acclaim from fans and media alike, with Metal Injection calling it "a great debut that — as its creator intended — leaves no doubt", and Guitar World stating "'Controlled Chaos' is a panoramic view of Nita Strauss's many strengths".

In March 2023, it was announced that Nita would return to Alice's band for his 2023 tour and beyond.

Nita spent eight years playing with Alice before joining Demi Lovato's band in the summer of 2022,

Strauss played her first full live show with Demi in August 2022 at the Grandstand at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield, Illinois.

Nita made her live debut with Demi in July 2022 with a performance of "Substance" on ABC's Emmy Award-winning late-night show "Jimmy Kimmel Live!".

Strauss had been playing with Cooper since 2014 when she replaced Australian musician and former Michael Jackson player Orianthi. She joined Alice in time for a mammoth MÖTLEY CRÜE tour. She was recommended to Cooper by the legendary rocker's former bass player and WINGER frontman Kip Winger.

The word “innovator” gets thrown around a lot in this industry.
In my humble opinion, there is no one it applies to more...

Posted by Nita Strauss on Tuesday, October 6, 2020

Black Star Riders / The Almighty frontman Ricky Warwick has checked in with the following update:


"What an honor and gratitude to have our good mate, Mr. Billy Duffy of The Cult, come by the studio and put his legendary trademark guitar on a few tracks on my new solo album that I’m recording here in Los Angeles with Keith Nelson producing. A fine day of rock n roll was had by all!"







Warwick recently issued the following update:


"Heading back to Illinois for what’s turning into my annual run of solo acoustic St Patrick’s week shows! Looking forward to see you all!"





Due to unprecedented interest in recent times, the original lineup of The Almighty were back in force for the first time in 32 years to close out 2023. Drummer Stumpy Monroe, bassist Floyd London, guitarist Andy “Tantrum” McCafferty together with Warwick announced three retrospective concerts to celebrate their 35th Anniversary in Glasgow, Manchester and London. from November 30th through December 2nd.


With those shows under their belt, Warwick recently shared the following message with the fans:


"Hard to find the words (not because I’ve sang myself hoarse ) but the last three days have been epic, emotional and life affirming. To be back onstage with my oldest friends and to pick up where we left off, just as loud just as wild and still The Allf%*kinMighty was incredible. From the bottom of my heart I’d like to thank my bandmates, road crew, tour manager Martin Walker, and Lisa Mckeown, Adam Parsons, Jack Taylor at Adam Paraons management. But most importantly, you lot out there, you’re the most loyal, passionate and hard core fans any musician could wish for and I love you all!


Never say never…indeed!!!"





Fan-filmed video from the Glasgow show can be viewed below. The setlist was as follows:


"Resurrection Mutha"
"Over the Edge"
"Power"
"Addiction"
"Destroyed"
"Wrench"
"Little Lost Sometimes"
"Takin' Hold"
"Devil's Toy"
"Full Force Lovin' Machine"
"Bandaged Knees"
"Welcome to Defiance"
"Sin Against the Light"
"The Unreal Thing"
"Blood, Fire & Love"
"Jonestown Mind"
"Crank and Deceit"
"Free 'n' Easy"


Encore:
"Crucify"
"Jesus Loves You... But I Don't"
"Wild & Wonderful"

The End Machine have released their new album, The Quantum Phase, via Frontiers Music Srl. Check out a lyric video for album opener, "Black Hole Extinction", below:





This new record from The End Machine signals a notable change in personnel. Singer Robert Mason has officially parted ways with the group, paving the way for Girish Pradhan, the rising superstar vocalist known for his work under the moniker Girish And The Chronicles and, more recently, with Joel Hoekstra’s 13. The addition of Pradhan to the band is a testament to the keen discernment of Serafino Perugino, president, and founder of Frontiers Records. Perugino, who serves as the executive producer for The End Machine, recognized the incredible talent and potential in Pradhan and brought him to the attention of the band.




Established in 2018, The End Machine released their eponymous debut album, The End Machine, in 2019 bringing early acclaim for not only contemporary production and a modern attitude, but also their perfectly crafted songs, paying homage to their roots and the music that they love. This attitude and talent was equally on display with their 2021 sophomore album, Phase2.


In delivering 2024's The Quantum Phase, The End Machine has not only surpassed expectations but has penned the record of their lives! With each note and lyric, they have exceeded their own artistic aspirations, collectively crafting the album they always wished they had written. This monumental work stands as a testament to The End Machine's evolution, showcasing not only their musical prowess but also their unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of their creative expression.


Order The Quantum Phase here.





Tracklisting:


"Black Hole Extinction"
"Silent Winter"
"Killer Of The Night"
"Hell Or High Water"
"Stand Up"
"Burning Man"
"Shattered Glass Heart"
"Time"
"Hunted"
"Stranger In The Mirror"
"Into The Blazing Sun"


"Killer Of The Night" video:





"Silent Winter" video:





Produced By: Jeff Pilson for Pilsound Music Inc
Studio: Pilsound Studios, Santa Clarita CA
Recorded By: Jeff Pilson and Girish Pradhan, additional engineering: Olivia Pilson
Mixed By: Alessandro Del Vecchio
Mastered By: Alessandro Del Vecchio


Band members:


George Lynch
Girish Pradhan
Steve Brown
Jeff Pilson

Making his name in ground-breaking heavy metal bands such as Black Label Society, In This Moment, Sixx:A.M., and Filter, Jeff Fabb decided to pioneer his own sound with his debut album released in November of last year with Stealing Souls, which held his first radio single, “You’re Complete”.


Jeff released another new single in February of this year called “Hell In The Hallway” which is currently being played on radio stations such as 94.3 The Shark, 90.1 WUSB. HITH is also currently being added to Spotify playlists.


Jeff’s new single, “See No Evil”, is a refreshingly upbeat and infectious tune that highlights Fabb’s artistry in a whole new way.




“See No Evil” combines the best of Jeff Fabb - his booming vocals, poetic lyrics, a catchy melody, and of course, his masterfully powerful and precise drumming. This track is an example of what Fabb is truly capable of, and showcases many of his varied artistic influences, such as Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, and Led Zeppelin. Fabb’s true genius is in his ability to layer textures reminiscent of the styles of great artists of the past, while incorporating modern touches and his unique flair.


Not only is Fabb known for his powerful drumming capabilities, but he plays essentially every instrument on his own in his solo work, aside from contributions from Fabb’s long-time friends and collaborators Brian Green and Dario Lorina on his previous debut release Stealing Souls.  


Jeff’s new single “See No Evil” also showcases long-time friend and past band member Blake Bunzel (In This Moment), who is playing guitar, mixing, and producing.


The new single speaks to the nature of embracing uncertainty, with lyrics like “Imagination, my mind’s creation, realization when life’s hell on Earth. There is no glory, as I tell the story, I need to let it go.”


“See No Evil” means sometimes it can feel like no one wants to help you, everyone is passing you by. It feels like you’ll never finish what you’ve started…, but sometimes slow and steady will get you where you wanna be.”  -Jeff Fabb


Save the single here, and watch the video below.





Stealing Souls tracklisting:


"Till The Death"
"As The Wind Blows"
"You're Complete"
"Reaper"
"Abandon Yourself"
"Drowning Fears"
"Rebellion Dogs"
"Hollow World"
"Gallows Pole"
"Time Stops The Bleeding"
"Lionhearted"
"War On The Weasel"
"Fascination"




















Highly respected drummer and multi-instrumentalist Jeff Fabb found his path in heavy metal and hard rock scenes, with his “claim to fame” in drumming for iconic rock bands such as In This Moment, Filter, and Sixx AM, and Black Label Society.


Starting his drumming career at the ripe age of 11, Fabb has a long history of music that’s followed him throughout his whole life. Beginning his journey growing up in Long Island, Fabb played in various bands throughout high school and eventually formed the band Tripface.


After spending much of his early career on the East Coast, Fabb moved to L.A. in 1998, to dive head-first into the music scene of Silver Lake. From there, he contributed to many esteemed bands in the rock and metal circles, always known for shaping the sound of each group he is a part of with his masterful drumming techniques.


Covid was a big catalyst for wanting to pursue his solo project, and he worked tirelessly to release his heavily anticipated solo album Stealing Souls in 2023. His debut album is highly regarded for combining a booming voice with slamming guitar and drums to create an album full of textures such as hard rock, rock, metal, grunge, and alternative rock. With slower tracks like “As the Wind Blows”, Fabb tunes into his more classic influences, and tunes into his harder rock influences with “Reaper”.


With influences ranging from Alice In Chains, Mad Season, Soundgarden, Black Sabbath, and Tool, to Led Zeppelin, Fabb creates a unique sound reminiscent of many great names in rock, while adding his own unique flair to everything he creates.


His diverse musical capabilities have allowed him to succeed in the rock and metal communities, making him a highly respected, and multi-faceted artist.

French heavy metal pioneers NIGHTMARE have unleashed new details about their upcoming, brand new studio offering entitled Encrypted! The band's twelfth album is slated for a release on June 7 2024 via AFM Records, the pre-sale has just started at https://shop.afm-records.de/nightmare/

Following the re-recorded, 2023 version of "Eternal Winter", today, NIGHTMARE are premiering a music video for their new album single "Saviours of the Damned"! The track is out now on all digital services via https://nightmare.bfan.link/saviours-of-the-damned, watch the video clip streaming below.

Founded in 1979, NIGHTMARE have been an integral part of the European metal scene for the past three decades, and have been prolific with their album releases, all the while updating and evolving their sound.

The band released eleven much acclaimed studio albums and toured worldwide, playing some of the biggest metal festivals like Wacken, Hellfest, 70,000 Tons Of Metal, Motocultor Open Air or Gods Of Metal, and supporting the likes of Def Leppard, Sabaton, Saxon, Grave Digger and Blind Guardian to name just a few. 2020 seen NIGHTMARE release their latest album, Aeternam, via AFM Records. At the end of 2022, the band parted ways with singer Madie and welcomes their new, exceptional vocalist: Barbara Mogore!

As the band states: "With the arrival of Barbara transcending NIGHTMARE in new dimensions, we have decided to move to new heights in terms of musical approach to make Encrypted our most ambitious album to date in terms of production, musical direction and achievement... You can find here some traditional power metal riffing in the trademark of NIGHTMARE but also extreme metal parts and some highlights even reaching melodic death metal... making Encrypted our most varied opus so far, beyond all boundaries and expectations...”

Encrypted was produced by Simone Mularoni at Domination Studio, the artwork was created by Franck Jeannin.

Tracklist:
01 - Nexus Inferis
02 - The Blossom of my Hate
03 - Voices from the Other Side
04 - Saviours of the Damned
05 - Wake the Night
06 - Encrypted
07 - Incandescent
08 - White Lines
09 - Borderlines
10 - Eternal Winter (2023 Version)

Former MEGADETH bassist David Ellefson played the fifth show of his inaugural "Bass Warrior Tour" last night (Friday, March 1) at Druso in Bergamo, Italy. Fan-filmed video of the concert can be seen below.

The "Bass Warrior Tour" sees Ellefson gracing select European cities with a captivating evening of cherished classics, deep cuts, and insightful storytelling from his illustrious career. This journey encompasses his role as a co-founding member of MEGADETH, his ELLEFSON solo material, and more.

When the "Bass Warrior Tour" was first announced, Ellefson said in a statement: "I've approached my career as that of a musical warrior, always accompanied by my bass guitar. I eagerly anticipate bringing these songs back to the stage, while sharing introspective and entertaining anecdotes about their creation. It's been a wild ride of low notes and high stakes!"

Accompanying Ellefson on this tour is Italian guitarist and musical director Andy Martongelli, a longtime friend and collaborator who has been by Ellefson's side during his solo ventures, "Basstory", ELLEFSON-SOTO and ALTITUDES & ATTITUDE tours across Europe. On drums is Roberto Pirami (Michael Angelo Batio, Rowan Robertson, Gus G.),on vocals Titta Tani (EHFAR, ex-drummer of Claudio Simonetti's GOBLIN),and on rhythm guitar Walter Cianciusi (Geoff Tate band).

Ellefson was fired from MEGADETH nearly three years ago, just days after sexually tinged messages and explicit video footage involving the bassist were posted on Twitter.

Shortly before Ellefson was dismissed from MEGADETH, he released a statement on Instagram denying all social media chatter that he "groomed" an underage fan. He also filed a report with the police department in Scottsdale, Arizona alleging unlawful distribution of sexually explicit images of him by unknown offenders.

Dave Mustaine — who formed MEGADETH with Ellefson in 1983 — released a statement on May 24, 2021 announcing the bassist's departure from the band. In the statement, Dave said: "We do not take this decision lightly. While we do not know every detail of what occurred, with an already strained relationship, what has already been revealed now is enough to make working together impossible moving forward."

Last June, Ellefson told Andrew McKaysmith of the "Scars And Guitars" podcast that he was prepared for his latest exit from MEGADETH.

"When my departure from MEGADETH happened, a lot of people were hitting me [up and saying], 'Oh my God. It's so terrible. It's so terrible,'" he recalled. "[And I said], 'Yeah, believe me, it's not.' [Laughs] It really isn't. I was ready for it. I didn't think it was gonna go down that way; I didn't see that coming. But the fact that it happened, I was not sad about it. I was okay with it. Because I knew there's another journey ahead, and that journey wasn't gonna start until I was out of the old one.

"When you're in a group, you're in a setting, you've gotta play company man and you kind of go along with the narrative that's been set forth.

"There was a lot of things, a lot of the narrative in that band that I never agreed with," Ellefson admitted. "A lot of that band was started on a grudge and a hardship of the firing [of MEGADETH leader Dave Mustaine] from METALLICA. That was never my story. I was always a METALLICA fan and I became friends with those guys. I have nothing but gratitude for that group and those gentlemen for what they've done for all of us, and I think they deserve the biggest applause. So it was hard to be in a band that always had this saltiness around that whole narrative, because it was never my narrative. So I went along to get along, but now I don't have to do that. And now I can be on my own path. These are my words; it's my story now. And maybe the events that happened a couple of years ago, I needed to have my own story to tell. 'Cause when you quit a band, everyone's pissed at you; they hate you: 'Oh, fuck you. You quit. You quit my favorite band.' But when you get tossed out… And I'm not looking for the sympathy card. You don't have to feel sorry for me; you don't have to do any of that. But it's interesting that, I guess the way it happened… it went down in a way that it was certainly visible enough and on a level that… It was sort of, like, okay, well, what's gonna happen next? And I just tried to be faithful to just following my heart, following the path."

In 2004, Ellefson filed an $18.5-million lawsuit against Mustaine, alleging the frontman shortchanged him on profits and backed out of a deal to turn Megadeth Inc. over to him when the band broke up in 2002. The lawsuit was eventually dismissed and Ellefson rejoined MEGADETH in 2010.

DAVID ELLEFSON BASS WARRIOR TOUR FEATURING ANDY MARTONGELLI FEBRUARY-MARCH 2024

"I've approached my career as that of a...

Posted by David Ellefson on Thursday, February 15, 2024

Former MEGADETH guitarist Marty Friedman has clarified his recent comments in which he said that hoped the traditional guitar solo would die "a slow and painful death".

In an interview that was originally conducted in October 2023 and then published in the March 2024 print issue of Guitar World, Marty stated about his approach to soloing: "Usually, the lead guitarist comes in, gets an eight-bar solo, plays a bunch of stupid licks, maybe adds something hot and fancy that will impress, and then they get out. But I'm replacing the vocalist when I'm soloing, meaning I sing with my guitar. So, rather than saying, 'Here's the obligatory eight-bar solo,' if necessary, I'll be selfish because that's exactly what I want instead of a boring old solo."

He added: "I hope the traditional guitar solo dies a slow and painful death. Guitar solos need to be inventive. They need something to keep listeners involved, especially those who are not learning to play and only listen. Because when you're learning to play, you tend to be impressed with anything you can't do, right? And if you're young and just catching the guitar bug, that excitement can be magical. It's, like, 'How do they do that!?' That element is awesome… but it means less than zero in everyone else's eyes."

After the Guitar World interview came out, Friedman claimed that his words were misconstrued, leading him to disavow the original feature via X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, and the accompanying news article. In response, Guitar World sought to clear the air by conducting a follow-up interview on March 5 in which he discussed in depth his feelings about what a guitar solo should be in the 21st century, along with a host of other topics.

Asked to clarify once and for all if guitar solos they dead and whether he hopes the traditional solo dies, Marty said: "I'm not going to give you any kind of sensational headline in this answer. [Laughs] You know, as long as people exist, people are going to want to hear music that makes them feel good. So, whatever instruments it takes to get there are what the instruments are going to be. And if guitar solos evolve into something that modern people can enjoy, then that's how it's going to be."

He continued: "I try to do my best. In my music, if you listen to my music, they've [solos] always played a purpose of trying to make you feel something when you're listening to the entire piece of music. That's all I can do. At the end of the day, it's the listeners who decide whether, you know, a particular instrument is in vogue or not. But for us as guitarists, we all hope that it continues to thrive; it lasted longer than the sax did, and that's a good thing. But I love the sax solos of the '50s, especially the sax solos of a guy named Jimmy Wright, who was just, like, the craziest sax player. And he was just like, I don’t know — like Eddie Van Halen of sax in the '50s. I don't know how to describe it, but back then, sax was the guitar. And now, it's still guitar, but it's our responsibility to do things that draw people to want to listen to our instrument. And that's really where I stand on this very, very important topic."

Marty recently completed recording his new solo album for a tentative late 2024 release.

He previously described the upcoming LP as similar to his 1992 effort "Scenes". "It's kind of in that vein, but much more modern," he explained. "And it's got all the things that I've added to my musical — I don't know how to say it — palette, or what I'm trying to do musically. It's basically a grown-up version of 'Scenes', really."

Marty's latest album, "Tokyo Jukebox 3", came out in April 2021 via The Players Club/Mascot Label Group. The record, which was made available in Japan in October 2020, is the third in a series that began with "Tokyo Jukebox" in 2009, and then "Tokyo Jukebox 2" following in 2011. The trilogy presents Friedman's inspired performances to Japanese repertoire he's chosen to cover.

Marty's presence in the world of music, the world of guitar and Japanese pop culture is mystifying, bizarre, and nothing short of inspiring. His first major impact in music was in the game-changing guitar duo CACOPHONY, which he founded with equally enigmatic and now-legendary guitarist Jason Becker. He then spent 10 years as lead guitarist in the genre-defining thrash metal act MEGADETH before moving to Tokyo due to his love for Japanese music, language, and culture.

Following his move, he landed a starring role for a new TV comedy "Hebimeta-san" ("Mr. Heavy Metal") and its spinoff, "Rock Fujiyama", which ran for six seasons and propelled him into the living rooms of Japan's mainstream. He has since appeared in over 800 TV shows, movies and commercials, including a two-year campaign with Coca-Cola for Fanta, authored two best-selling novels and was the first-ever foreigner to be appointed as an ambassador of Japan heritage and perform at the opening ceremony for the Tokyo Marathon in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2022.

At the same time, Marty has continued his career in music with several solo albums in addition to writing and performing with the top artists in Japanese music, racking up countless chart hits, including a No. 1 with SMAP, two No. 2 songs with MOMOIRO CLOVER, a No. 2 with SOUND HORIZON — just to name a few.

Canadian melodic rock / metal band, MJM, have released a powered-up version of their latest single, "Live It Up", this time featuring guest vocalist, Tim "Ripper" Owens.


"Live It Up" will be premiering exclusively on BraveWords Radio starting today, March 8, with the song becoming available on March 11 on all digital music outlets for purchase and streaming.







MJM guitarist / vocalist Michael J. Miller comments: "I wanted to have a guest performance on an MJM song to feature a prominent vocalist. My publicist mentioned that it would be a great idea if I would be able to get Tim "Ripper" Owens of KK’s Priest to sing a new version of our latest single. I thought that it was a brilliant idea as Judas Priest has always been a metal staple for me, as my guitar playing and style has been greatly influenced by them. Their vocals have always been second to none.


"When I sent Tim "Ripper" Owens the song 'Live It Up', he got right back to me and said "cool song, when do you want me to start on it?." When my producer and I heard his completed vocal tracks, we were both instantly thrilled. His vocals are Rippin."


 Tim "Ripper" Owens comments: "I loved singing on it, and I love doing things that are a little out of the box for me. A real fun and good hard rocking tune. I’m really happy with it."


The original version of "Live It Up" can be heard via the lyric video below:





Michael J. Miller (MJM) began with his band Rapid Tears releasing the albums Honestly and Cry For Mercy on Chameleon Records, which is now distributed by European label (Sonic Age Records) Cult Metal Classics.


When Rapid Tears came to a halt during production of their third album, Miller put together his new group Adrenalin and released an epic album entitled Dedicated, which was released under German record label Long Island Records.


But not all the stars aligned and Miller decided it was time to make an act that reflected the true origin of his creative music. Hence, MJM – The Michael J. Miller Band.


MJM lineup:


Michael J. Miller - Guitars / Vocals
Zsolt Henczely - Bass
Tom Eakin - Drums
Stephany Dudas - Vocals

Judas Priest have just released the official music video for "Invincible Shield", the title track of the band's new album, out now. Watch the clip below:





Over the past 50 years Judas Priest have sold over 50 million albums worldwide and headlined the world’s biggest stages. With their evolving music and live performances also came a powerful unique identity, a look which has both defined the group and influenced future generations of metal bands the world over. With each year, the Judas Priest legend continues to grow; 2022 saw them inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and complete a sold-out rescheduled world tour in support of their 50th Anniversary. As we roll into 2024, Judas Priest continue to retain their crown as one of the biggest and best British bands in the world.




Invincible Shield can be ordered here.





Tracklisting:


"Panic Attack"
"The Serpent And The King"
"Invincible Shield"
"Devil In Disguise"
"Gates Of Hell"
"Crown Of Horns"
"As God Is My Witness"
"Trial By Fire"
"Escape From Reality"
"Sons Of Thunder"
"Giants In The Sky"


Deluxe edition bonus tracks:


"Fight Of Your Life"
"Vicious Circle"
"The Lodger"


"Panic Attack" video:





"The Serpent And The King" video:





"Invincible Shield" lyric video:





"Devil In Disguise" lyric video:





"Gates Of Hell" lyric video:





"Crown Of Horns" lyric video:





"As God Is My Witness" lyric video:





"Trial By Fire" video:





"Escape From Reality" lyric video:





"Sons Of Thunder" lyric video:





"Giants In The Sky" lyric video:





"Fight Of Your Life" lyric video:





"Vicious Circle" lyric video:





"The Lodger" lyric video:





Judas Priest will delight fans with a world tour this year, the UK leg kicks off in Glasgow on March 11 before taking on North America in April and May.  See below for full North American tour routing and head to judaspriestinvincibleshield.com for tickets.


Tour dates:


April
18 - Wallingford, CT - Toyota Oakdale Theatre
9 - Newark, NJ - Prudential Center
21 - Reading, PA - Santander Arena
24 - Bangor, ME - Cross Insurance Center
25 - Boston, MA - MGM Music Hall at Fenway
27 - Youngstown, OH - Covelli Center*
28 - Indianapolis, IN - Everwise Amphitheater at White River


May
1 - Rosemont, IL - Rosemont Theatre
2 - Minneapolis, MN - The Armory
4 - Kalamazoo, MI - Wings Event Center*
5 - Maryland Heights, MO - St Louis Music Park
7 - Huntsville, AL - VBC Propst Arena*
9 - Daytona, FL - Welcome to Rockville^
11 - Alpharetta, GA - Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
12 - Mobile, AL - Mobile Civic Center Arena*
14 - Charlotte, NC - PNC Music Pavilion
16 - Columbus, OH - Historic Crew Stadium ^
17 - Evansville, IN - Ford Center*
19 - Washington, DC -The Theater at MGM National Harbor
21 - Albany, NY - MVP Arena
22 - Syracuse, NY - Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview


* Not a Live Nation Date
^ Festival Performance

In 2022, KISS celebrated the 40th anniversary of Creatures Of The Night, one of the band’s defining works, with a massive super deluxe version of the album. Originally released as a CD collection, KISS have announced the vinyl version, the Creatures Of The Night 40th 9LP Super Deluxe Edition, will be released on April 26.


The anniversary edition boasts an astounding 103 total tracks with 75 tracks being unreleased on vinyl. Two limited edition e-commerce exclusives will be released, a Glow-In-The-Dark vinyl edition and a 180-gram black vinyl edition. The 180-gram black vinyl edition will be limited to 2000 units worldwide, while the Glow-In-The-Dark vinyl edition will be limited to 1000, with each box uniquely numbered.







LP1 will feature the original album, newly remastered in 2022. LPs 2-5 feature 34 demos, rarities & outtakes including gems like “Deadly Weapon (Penny Lane Demo),” “Not For The Innocent (Demo)” and “Betrayed (Outtake).” LPs 6-9 highlight 26 incredible, soundboard live recordings from the Creatures ‘82/’83 Tour and 7 super rare tour sound effects, all recorded and archived by the Creatures Tour sound engineer Harry Witz. The second side on LP9 features no music and is enhanced with the first-ever KISS band image silkscreen printed on vinyl. The Blu-ray Audio disc showcases the Atmos and 5.1 surround mix plus the high-resolution newly remastered 1982 stereo mix of the original album.


Additionally, the Super Deluxe box features an extensive array of bonus KISS collectibles, including an 80-page Hardcover Book with Extensive Liner Notes by Ken Sharp and a treasure trove of unreleased photos and imagery, a Creatures Of The Night 1982 Press Kit, as well as a series of posters, prints, buttons, and more.


Pre-order here.

Bruce Dickinson's new album, The Mandrake Project, has entered the UK's Official Albums Chart Top 100 at #3, scoring the Iron Maiden singer his highest charting solo album in that country.


Earlier today, marketing firm CMM GMBH announced that The Mandrake Project has entered the German album charts at #1, stating: "Congratulations of course to Bruce himself, BMG and the whole team behind this amazing promo campaign. Proud to be part of the team!"







The Mandrake Project is available worldwide on multiple formats. Across ten inventive, expansive and absorbing tracks, Dickinson and his long-term co-writer and producer Roy Z, have created one of 2024’s defining rock albums. Sonically heavy and rich in musical textures, The Mandrake Project sees Bruce bring to life a musical vision long-in-the-making, and features some of the finest vocal performances of his career.


Recorded largely at LA’s Doom Room with Roy Z doubling up as both guitarist and bassist, the lineup for The Mandrake Project was rounded out by keyboard maestro Mistheria and drummer Dave Moreno, both of whom also featured on Bruce’s last solo studio album, Tyranny Of Souls, in 2005.


Order The Mandrake Project here.





The Mandrake Project tracklisting:


"Afterglow Of Ragnarok"
"Many Doors To Hell"
"Rain On The Graves"
"Resurrection Men"
"Fingers In The Wounds"
"Eternity Has Failed"
"Mistress Of Mercy"
"Face In The Mirror"
"Shadow Of The Gods"
"Sonata (Immortal Beloved)"


"Rain On The Graves" video:





"Afterglow Of Ragnarok" video:





(Photo - John McMurtrie)

Swedish blackened death metal masters, Necrophobic, will release their 10th studio album, In The Twilight Grey, on March 15 via Century Media Records. The band have released this unboxing video:





Watch the vinyl edition of the album being pressed in the video below:







With over thirty years of activity, nefarious service under their spikes and bulletbelts, Necrophobic are undisputed legends of the death and black metal scene. Formed in 1989 by drummer Joakim Sterner, the Stockholm blackhearts propagated a singular and fearless vision from the very start. Eschewing the self-conscious amateurism and primitive sonics that many of their peers held dear, Necrophobic established a bold and vivid identity of their own, conjuring a densely melodic, but endlessly wicked take on macabre extreme metal that countless lesser bands have since emulated.


Yet again, In The Twilight Grey was produced, mixed and mastered by Fredrik Folkare (of death metal icons Unleashed) at Chrome Studios, Stockholm and engineered in close collaboration by Folkare and the band themselves. For the artwork they teamed up with Jens Rydén, another likeminded institution from the Swedish scene.


The album will be available in the following formats:


- Ltd. Deluxe Gatefold combat green 2LP & LP-Booklet & Poster incl. 2 bonus tracks (1.000x)
- Gatefold dark green LP (300x)
- Gatefold black LP
- Ltd. CD Mediabook (comes with a special, extended booklet and 2 bonus tracks)
- Standard CD Jewelcase
- Digital album


Pre-order here.





Tracklisting:


"Grace Of The Past"
"Clavis Inferni"
"As Stars Collide"
"Stormcrow"
"Shadows Of The Brightest Night"
"Mirrors Of A Thousand Lakes"
"Cast In Stone"
"Nordanvind"
"In The Twilight Grey"
"Ascension (Episode Four)"


"As Stars Collide" lyric video:





"Stormcrow" video:





Lineup:


Anders Strokirk - Vocals
Sebastian Ramstedt - Lead & Rhythm guitar
Johan Bergebäck - Rhythm guitar
Tobias Cristiansson - Bass
Joakim Sterner - Drums


(Photo - Jens Rydén)

Stormborn, the melodic heavy metal powerhouse from Kent, UK, have released a video for "Serpentine", the new single from their upcoming Zenith album, out April 26 via Rockshots Records. Watch below:





While drawing inspiration from the titans of metal – Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Dio, and the rest, Stormborn blazes a unique trail, adopting influences from across the metal spectrum. Their sound is a fusion of classic elements and bold, modern innovation. Stormborn isn't just walking in the footsteps of giants; they're crafting a new path in heavy metal, dominated by great riffs, a strong melodic backbone, and powerful vocals that you can't help but sing along to.




After the release of their first album, Stormborn cut their teeth gigging up and down the UK, especially in London where their regular appearances at the legendary Intrepid Fox were attended by the likes of Herman Li from DragonForce and Mark Cross - ex Helloween and Firewind. They were soon chosen by Rob Chapman to support his band Dorje as well as Phil X & The Drills on a UK tour in 2013, playing at various O2 Academys around the country.


Career highlights include supporting Rhapsody of Fire at the Camden Underworld in 2023, winning the 2012 Metal 2 the Masses for London, playing at Bloodstock festival, winning the 2013 Summer Breeze New Blood award, and opening the main stage of Summer Breeze Festival 2013.


Pre-order Zenith at the Rockshots Records webshop.





Tracklisting:


“Call Of The Void”
“Land Of The Servant King”
“Fear Of A Monster”
“The Unending Night”
“Dawn Will Come Again”
“Out In The Weird”
“Serpentine”
“Death Incarnate”
“Echo”


“Fear Of A Monster”:





Stormborn are:


Andrew Felton (Drums)
Laurence Armitage (Guitar)
David Viner (Guitar)
Simon "Steve" Ball (Bass)
Christopher Simmons (Vocals)

Kaosis unites with Soilwork’s Bjorn Strid on the epic nu-prog track “Blood Of Angels”.


Bjorn Strid is widely recognized as one of the most talented vocalists in modern metal. He can effortlessly shift from soul-crushing gutturals to operatic falsetto. Not only has he fronted Soilwork since its inception in 1995, but has also lent his voice to a diverse range of acts such as Motionless In White, Powerwolf, and more recently Epica.


Xen, Kaosis vocalist and producer said, “I needed someone that could deliver choral operatics as well as bone-crushing authority. The list of candidates was short. Speed (Bjorn) was my first choice.”




The essence of “Blood Of Angels” can be found in the mid-'90s American prog with riffage and sound design not dissimilar to Tool. Kaosis rounds the track out by delivering a savage breakdown but it comes via a scenic and exploratory path.


“Blood Of Angels” also demonstrates the dexterity and tasteful lead solo work of Peredur Ap Gwynedd (Pendulum). Peredur takes the lead on many of the songs off the forthcoming album but this solo is particularly beautiful.


The music video is set in a nondescript jungle temple and draws on a variety of religious symbolism to help visualize the theme of the song.


Djinnobi, guitar and vocals - “'Blood Of Angels' is about Man killing the self-made construct of God to find faith in himself.”





“Blood Of Angels” is available on all platforms now.


 

Almost four years to the day of the release of their Death Meditation full-length, New York City death/doom bringers Funeral Leech return with The Illusion Of Time, set for release on April 5th via Carbonized Records.


It may feel like a lifetime to some, but for Funeral Leech it was time well-spent. Their sophomore release is a more mature, focused, and realized manifestation of their depressive, vitriolic vision. Expanding their necromantic sound to incorporate elements of melancholic synths and expansive, sorrowful passages influenced by their funeral doom forebears (Mournful Congregation, Evoken, Asunder) and the powerful guitar harmonies and solos of traditional doom (Solstice, Candlemass, Cathedral, Scald), Funeral Leech shows they are an ever-growing, slowly encroaching death machine that none can escape. The Illusion Of Time is a deeply personal journey through five writings of time, guilt, grief, and loss, clocking in at 43 grueling minutes. Funeral Leech reminds you that time means nothing, but… time’s tide will smother you!


“The Illusion Of Time, as a whole is a journey into self-realization and acceptance, but not a very positive one,” issues drummer/vocalist L. “I took the writings and self-teachings from Death Meditation and went a step further. This is a natural progression, ‘death is a new beginning’ was just that, a beginning. The Illusion Of Time is about how time stops at nothing. The album contains five concentrated, and almost obsessive writings on time and its inevitable effect on us. We often think it is infinite, when in fact it couldn’t be further than the case. Every clock alarm, every watch tick… one second closer to our end. And what happens after that? Time keeps moving. Forever.”




“The Illusion Of Time is deeply personal,” he continues, “and deals with a number of great losses I’ve experienced, and how time is a reminder that life goes on, doesn’t care, will never stop, even after we are long gone. It’ll just begin again for someone else.”


In advance of the record’s release, today the band unleashes first single, “Ceaseless Wheel Of Becoming”, which wholly encapsulates The Illusion Of Time’s theme, “Life will not stop for you. Every day is death. An endless cycle begins again. We live only to die and we die just to live again.”





The Illusion Of Time was recorded by Sasha Stroud at Artifact Audio and mixed and mastered by Dan Lowndes at Resonance Sound Studio. The record includes additional vocals by Ivan Caban on “Penance” and Dino Sommese on “The Tower”, recorded by Judd Hawk at The Church of Artificial Intelligence, as well as additional percussion by Sasha Stroud. The front and back cover art, sigils, and lyric art were provided by Karmazid.


Funeral Leech’s The Illusion Of Time will be released on CD, LP, cassette, and digital formats. Find pre-orders at the Carbonized Records US webshop, EU webshop, or Bandcamp, as well as the Funeral Leech Bandcamp.


Join Funeral Leech at the Honey Moon Coffee Shop in Queens, New York on April 5th for a special listening party. Catch the band live at TV Eye, also in Queens, on April 13th where they will perform The Illusion Of Time in its entirety. Stand by for more live dates to be announced in the weeks to come.





Tracklisting:


"…And The Sky Wept"
"Ceaseless Wheel Of Becoming"
"Penance"
"Chronofixion"
"The Tower"


For further details, visit Funeral Leech on Facebook.


(Photo by Evan Hunter McKnight)


 

"We had a blast writing with Marti a few weeks ago," begins an update from The Dead Daisies. "Kickin' off next week we’re heading back to the studios in Nashville to start recording the next Daisies rock masterpiece. We’ll be sending updates from the studio so stay tuned!"


The aforementioned Marti is none other than highly acclaimed producer / songwriter Marti Frederiksen, who in addition to collaborating previously with The Dead Daisies, has worked with Aerosmith, Buckcherry, Ozzy Osbourne, and Mötley Crüe to name but a few. 


The as yet untitled full-length from The Dead Daisies will be their seventh studio album.







Last month, The Dead Daisies released the following video, stating, "Touring in 2023 was a blast with dates in the US, Canada, Japan and two trips to Europe. After the big speed hump called 'the pandemic' we did notice that many aspects of touring are still recovering so, we thought we’d throw this little video together to give you guys a bit of an insight… No what matter though, its always about playing great music and you, the fans … thank you for the continued support. Peace & Love."





 

“Sometimes you have to die first to fully understand what life is.” - Francesco Paoli


Death… our inevitable ruin that calls for us sooner or later. Many who are fortunate enough to temporarily escape its fatal clutches experience life altering changes, finding renewed purpose, rejuvenated creative spirit and a reawakening of the soul. Such as the story goes for Fleshgod Apocalypse frontman Francesco Paoli who in 2021 was involved in a tragic mountain climbing accident that left him clinging to life with years of recovery ahead, and ultimately inspiring the band’s first music in years.


Today marks the monumental return of Paoli and Italian symphonic metal giants Fleshgod Apocalypse as the band releases their first new music since the devastating accident. Inspired by horrific event, the new single, "Pendulum" swings with intense ferocity and baroque classical movements, seething with anguished pain.




Commenting on the song, Paoli says: “This is the first song we release since my ‘dance’ with death, back in August 2021. It's obvious that such a life changing event would have affected our music. It took a toll on me, physically and mentally, and sharing my experience is also part of my healing process. Pendulum is just the opening chapter of a bigger story, which is yet to be told…”


Mixed and mastered by Grammy-nominated producer Jacob Hansen (Volbeat, Epica, Arch Enemy), "Pendulum" encapsulates all the core elements that Fleshgod Apocalypse are known for: sheer violence, majestic orchestrations and soaring operatic melodies. The stunning artwork was created by Italian artist Ludovico Cioffi.





The new single is accompanied by a stunning music video directed by Martina L. McLean (Ghost, Oceana).


Paoli adds about the video: “The music video, realized by visionary Italian director Martina L. McLean, turned my unfortunate incident into a monumental visual experience, an awe inspiring blend of obscure symbolism, surreal architectures and nightmarish mythological creatures. It perfectly portraits the struggle and the desperation of that day, a day of defeat... but also the day of my rebirth.”


Stream "Pendulum" here, and watch the music video below:





Tour dates:


March
23 - Manila, PH - Pulp Summer Slam XX
25 - Perth, AU - Rosemount Hotel
27 - Adelaide, AU - Lion Arts Factory
29 - Brisbane, AU - The Back Room
30 - Sydney, AU - Crowbar
31 - Melbourne, AU - The Espy


(Photo - Francesco Esposito)

Iron Maiden frontman, Bruce Dickinson, recently released his new solo album, The Mandrake Project.


Marketing firm, CMM GMBH, has announced that The Mandrake Project has entered the German album charts at #1, stating: "Congratulations of course to Bruce himself, BMG and the whole team behind this amazing promo campaign. Proud to be part of the team!"







The Mandrake Project is available worldwide on multiple formats. Across ten inventive, expansive and absorbing tracks, Dickinson and his long-term co-writer and producer Roy Z, have created one of 2024’s defining rock albums. Sonically heavy and rich in musical textures, The Mandrake Project sees Bruce bring to life a musical vision long-in-the-making, and features some of the finest vocal performances of his career.


Recorded largely at LA’s Doom Room with Roy Z doubling up as both guitarist and bassist, the lineup for The Mandrake Project was rounded out by keyboard maestro Mistheria and drummer Dave Moreno, both of whom also featured on Bruce’s last solo studio album, Tyranny Of Souls, in 2005.


Order The Mandrake Project here.





The Mandrake Project tracklisting:


"Afterglow Of Ragnarok"
"Many Doors To Hell"
"Rain On The Graves"
"Resurrection Men"
"Fingers In The Wounds"
"Eternity Has Failed"
"Mistress Of Mercy"
"Face In The Mirror"
"Shadow Of The Gods"
"Sonata (Immortal Beloved)"


"Rain On The Graves" video:





"Afterglow Of Ragnarok" video:





(Photo - John McMurtrie)

Finnish melodic metallers, Sonata Arctica, have released their new album, Clear Cold Beyond, via Atomic Fire. In celebration, the band have released a music video for the track, "California".


Says Tony Kakko: "This is a song about persons who think that it's possible and okay to charm and have any and all people for themselves - use and lose - and who don't care about the amount of pain and broken hearts left behind. And now you're the target, but you know better and make sure that this will not happen until 'California falls into the sea,' what I've come to understand is impossible and will never happen, at least in the sense of science fiction. Simply put: The track deals with self-protection. If you're strong enough, you can of course give such persons a serving of their own poison what can be satisfying."







Clear Cold Beyond is packed with strong songs and fuses the best of all periods of Sonata Arctica's multifaceted work: From high-speed anthems such as the aforementioned "First In Line" and "California" to emotion-laden tracks such as "The Best Things" and the closing title track, this record offers something for each and every Sonata Arctica fan.


The album's artwork, reminiscent of their early works, was created by Niko Anttila and the band returned to mixing engineer Mikko Karmila (Finnvox Studios; Ecliptica [1999] - Stones Grow Her Name [2012]). Final mastering was handled by Svante Forsbäck, who has also been part of other Sonata Arctica productions.


Clear Cold Beyond is available in the following formats:


- CD-digipak
- jewelcase CD (US)
- 2LP vinyl [winter night marbled (white/black) | icy-blue marbled (transparent/blue)]
- digital


Oder the album in the physical format of your choice, save it on your favourite DSP or order it digitally, here.





Clear Cold Beyond tracklisting:


"First In Line"
"California"
"Shah Mat"
"Dark Empath"
"Cure For Everything"
"A Monster Only You Can't See"
"Teardrops"
"Angel Defiled"
"The Best Things"
"Clear Cold Beyond"


Bonus Tracks (digipak + vinyl only):
"A Ballad For The Broken"
"Toy Soldiers" (Martika cover)


"Dark Empath" video:





"A Monster Only You Can't See" lyric video:





"First In Line":





Lineup:


Tony Kakko - vocals
Elias Viljanen - guitars
Pasi Kauppinen - bass
Henrik "Henkka" Klingenberg - keyboards
Tommy Portimo - drums


(Photo - Jaakko Manninen)

Northern German melodic power metallers, Mob Rules, are celebrating their 30th anniversary and it's time to let it rip!





With Celebration Day - 30 Years Of Mob Rules, the band around singer Klaus Dirks announces an extensive compilation of Mob Rules classics with over 150 minutes of playing time spread over two CDs. Consisting of thirty hand-picked songs, including classics such as "Black Rain", "Hollowed Be Thy Name", and "Rain Song", but also songs that have previously seen less of a spotlight.




Klaus explains: "I immediately have to think of 'Way Of The World', which was the last song on our Hollowed Be Thy Name album from 2002. We were able to get ex-Helloween/Masterplan guitarist Roland Grapow for a guest appearance and in the end the eight-and-a-half-minute track became one of the best in our repertoire."


In addition to this amazing cross-section of the band's career, they have included some tracks which were previously only available digitally (as examples, the latest single "Hymn Of The Damned" and the Amon Amarth cover "Raven's Flight"). These tracks were carefully remastered by Markus Teske especially for this compilation.


With three brand new cover songs, Celebration Day - 30 Years Of Mob Rules also contains previously unreleased material. With great attention to detail, the band took on diverse songs such as "Run To The Hills" (Iron Maiden), "Fame" (Irene Cara), and "Square Hammer" (Ghost) and made them their own.


French artist Stan-W Decker (Primal Fear, Blue Öyster Cult, Rage) was enlisted for the visual design of the anniversary release, creating the perfect setting with a breathtaking cover illustration containing numerous cross-references to the Mob Rules band history.


All in all, every detail of Celebration Day - 30 Years Of Mob Rules displays the high-quality standards of a band that has never done things by halves. Here's to the next 30 years!


Pre-Order Celebration Day - 30 Years of Mob Rules here.





Tracklisting:
 
CD1
"Way Of The World"
"Run To The Hills" (Iron Maiden cover)
"Fame" (Irene Cara cover)
"Square Hammer" (Ghost cover)
"Ghost Town" (re-recorded)
"Sacred Heart" (Dio cover)
"Ghost Of A Chance"
"Hollowed Be Thy Name"
"Sinister Light"
"Black Rain"
"Ice & Fire"
"Somerled"
"Flag Of Life"
"Unholy War"
"Fuel To The Fire"


CD2
"Raven's Flight" (Amon Amarth cover)
"Hymn Of The Damned"
"Lord Of Madness" (re-recorded)
"Evolution's Falling"
"Shores Ahead"
"Hydrophobia"
"Hold Back The Light"
"Tele Box Fool"
"Desperate Son"
"The Sirens"
"Better Morning"
"Trial By Fire"
"On The Edge"
"Rain Song"
"Dykemaster's Tale"





Mob Rules live dates:


May
3 - Bremen, Germany - Meisenfrei
4 - Duisburg, Germany - Parkhaus Meiderich
5 - Waldbronn, Germany - Soundcheck One

"Chaos Reign" is the new single from Fall Of Serenity's forthcoming new album, Open Wide, O Hell, which is set to be released on March 22nd via Lifeforce Records. CHeck out the official video below.


Fall Of Serenity are back with a new album ten years after their reunion. Their split lasted from 2009 to 2012. For the last five-four, the quintet has been preparing the release of Open Wide, O Hell. The album comes up with a good dose of surprises, and its basis still lies in melodic death metal, which is associated with the East German band founded in 1998. But a black metal impact is also to be attributed to the new song material and changes the musical face decisively. Besides, impressive melodies continue to lead Fall Of Serenity through their songs.


With the new record, the band continue where they left off in 2009. Open Wide, O Hell - after Bloodred Salvation (2006) and The Crossfire (2007) the third album of the group for Lifeforce Records - convinces with raw aggression and threatening darkness. 







Tracklist:


"Thy Pathway"
"Darkness, I Command"
"I Don’t Expect I Shall Return"
"Wastelands"
"I"
"Chaos Reign"
"A Winter Song"
"To Tear the Flesh"
"… But Grim Will Follow"
"II"
"I Am the God"


"Chaos Reign"

Bob Catley has apparently put MAGNUM to rest, two months after the passing of Tony Clarkin, the guitarist, songwriter and the driving force behind the U.K. prog/pomp/AOR rock band.

Earlier today (Thursday, March 7),the 76-year-old MAGNUM singer released a video message on social media in which he said: "Hello, everybody. Bob here. All right. I wish I didn't have to tell you this, but I really can't carry on with Tony not here anymore. Please forgive me, and I hope you can understand how I feel. I've been thinking about it a lot lately.

"Since we lost Tone, we lost our guiding light, the magnum force behind the band, our songwriter, our producer, our guitar player. He was everything to the band. He was everything to me. For the last 50 years, we never went anywhere without each other. On tour, in the studio, I was at his side constantly, working on stuff with him. I had a wonderful life with Tony. But now it's all too much for me, people. I can't carry on without Tony.

"I may pop up in some other shape or form in the near future — you never know — but I can't keep going on like this. It's far too sad; it's all too sad.

"So, I hope you understand. You've been fantastic — the best audience ever. You kept this band going year after year, album after album, and we thank you for that.

"So, be good. Keep Tony's music in your heart always. I know I will. I will always carry MAGNUM inside me. And I will always have Tony Clarkin beside me wherever I go.

"I love you. You've been brilliant. But it's time for me to bow out now. It's my last curtain call, okay? I'll see you sometime. Be good. Cheers. Bye-bye."

Clarkin died in early January at the age of 77. The news of his death came just weeks after it was announced that he had been diagnosed with a rare and incurable spinal condition. As a result of his diagnosis, MAGNUM canceled its previously announced spring 2024 tour.

On January 9, Tony's family released the following statement: "On behalf of the family it is with profound sadness that daughter Dionne Clarkin is sharing the news of the passing of Tony Clarkin. Following a short illness, he died peacefully surrounded by his girls on Sunday 7th January 2024.

"I know that Tony has touched so many people through his music in so many different ways. I don't really have words to express what he meant to me right now as the grief is too fresh.

"As many of you know Tony had a great affinity with animals. It is the family's intention to set up a charitable trust in his name to aid this cause, further details to follow. Please do not send flowers or cards, as he would have much preferred expressions of sympathy to go to charity in this way.

"It was a privilege to call him my Dad."

Olly Hahn, head of Steamhammer, said: "We at SPV/Steamhammer are devastated about the passing of Tony. We can't believe that he's gone. For 22 years the whole team and I had the pleasure to work with him, 22 years of fantastic music, trust and loyalty. We are forever grateful for this. Rest in peace, Tony!"

On December 18, 2023, Clarkin released the following message via social media: "I'm afraid I have some bad news for you guys. Over the past year or so I've been bothered by increasingly bad pains in my neck and head. For a long time the docs couldn't work out why, but now they've found out and it's gonna mean some changes.

"I have developed a rare spinal condition. It's not life-limiting, but it can be degenerative in some people, and sadly it's not curable. There are treatments that may help but we don't know how good they'll be.

"With the nature of touring and the weight of electric guitars this means there's no way I would be able to play the scheduled shows in the spring. We've taken the decision to cancel the tour, rather than mess anyone around trying to postpone in the hope things might get better in the short term. Bob didn't feel it would be right doing it with a dep at this time.

"This is not gonna be the end of MAGNUM, but the future might have to be a bit different, so please bear with us while we try and figure out what I can and can't do moving forward.

"I'm really sorry for everyone who'd already bought tickets, it goes without saying that I'm absolutely gutted that I'm not gonna be able to play for you.

"Cheers and I hope I'll be able to see you all again soon."

In a December 2023 interview with Friday 13th, just days after Tony's diagnosis was made public, Catley spoke about how he and his bandmates were dealing with Clarkin's health setback. He said: "I've been having a few bad days, actually, if you wanna know the truth, with Tony and everything, and the tour canceling, having to be canceled, because he can't commit to that at this stage. But it's gonna get better soon, whatever they can give him."

Bob continued: "He's got a spinal condition that is quite rare, apparently, and it's been coming on probably since the last time we did some gigs last year, and then we've been recording the new album all through this year, and it's been getting gradually worse for him, and now it's, like, 'Oh.' He can't do anything. So touring, wearing a guitar on stage for nearly two hours and [being on a] tour bus — just the fact that you're on tour is a big no-no at the moment. And we're all, like, 'Oh, Tony.' But, of course, he's gotta heal now somehow, and the future will have to take care of itself. We can't talk about the future. It's way too soon. We just want him to be in a better place and for everybody to be kind and [to] understand his situation. And I know they will be, because they're MAGNUM fans and of course they will be kind and understanding. And I know Facebook's full of it, of sending Tony their best wishes. And it's all up on the Internet, [Tony's] statement there. So just read that, people. And I can't tell you any more than what the statement says."

Added MAGNUM drummer Lee Morris: "Tony will be gutted about the tour. Obviously, we're all very proud of this album. We really wanna get out there and play these songs live for everybody. So I know he's gonna be gutted about it. We just seem to be cursed when it comes to touring. This is the second tour — we had 'The Serpent Rings' tour canceled because of COVID, and now obviously with Tony's medical sort of issue now, it's the second tour which we've had to cancel, so we've done, like, two tours for the last four studio albums.

Bob chimed in: "We've been here before. We're getting déjà vu. I just don't wanna get used to it. This ain't the way it's supposed to be."

Lee continued: "At the day, Tony's health is the most important thing. At the end of the day, he's our captain, he's our friend. We've gotta make sure he's right. And I know Tony's a trooper, and he tried to commit to the tour, but it wouldn't be fair to put him through that. Being on a tour bus and carrying a guitar, it would have just been too much. It's the wise thing to do."

Formed in Birmingham over 50 years ago by Catley and Clarkin, MAGNUM have cemented themselves as one of the U.K.'s finest hard rock exports, a largely American-dominated genre.

With their unique melodic skill and tasteful instrumentation, the group have released 23 studio albums over the years, with their most recent, "Here Comes The Rain", arriving in January.



A message from Bob.

Posted by MAGNUM on Thursday, March 7, 2024