FM will release their new album, Old Habits Die Hard, on May 3 via Frontiers Music srl. Watch a music video for the single "Out Of The Blue" below.


Signed CDs can be pre-ordered here. All other streaming and physical pre-orders can be found here.


In the summer of 1984 singer Steve Overland and his brother, guitarist Chris (both formerly of Wildlife) teamed up with drummer Pete Jupp (ex-Wildlife and Samson) and bassist Merv Goldsworthy (ex-Diamond Head and Samson) to form FM. Joined by the keyboard talents of Didge Digital, by December that year they had secured a recording contract with CBS/Portrait and the band headed to Germany for a run of dates with Meat Loaf.




Further tours with Tina Turner, Foreigner and Gary Moore built up the momentum. On 8 September 1986, FM released their debut album Indiscreet (featuring the hugely popular single "Frozen Heart") to great critical acclaim and the year ended on a high with FM supporting the white-hot Bon Jovi on their "Slippery When Wet" tour.


For the next nine years FM consolidated their position at the forefront of British melodic rock, touring extensively as headliners and also joining bands such as Status Quo and Whitesnake on tours to promote releases such as 1989's Tough It Out album; Takin' It To The Streets released in 1991 (with Andy Barnett on guitar replacing the now-departed Chris Overland); Aphrodisiac in 1992 and what was to be their 'final' album, 1995's Dead Man's Shoes with new recruit Jem Davis (Tobruk, UFO) on keyboards.


In 2007 - after a 12 year sabbatical - FM were persuaded to return to the stage for a 'one-off' headline performance at a sold-out Firefest IV at Nottingham Rock City.


The rapturous reception from the fans at Firefest led to FM quickly making the decision to record a new album and following a return to Firefest in 2009, in March 2010 FM released their much-anticipated sixth studio album Metropolis with Jim Kirkpatrick replacing Andy Barnett on lead guitar.


FM haven't stopped since… Headline tours both in the UK and overseas, Special Guest slots touring with Foreigner, Journey, Thin Lizzy, Heart, Saxon and Skid Row; festival appearances including Download, Planet Rockstock, Sweden Rock, Graspop, Steelhouse Festival, Frontiers Rock Festival, Hard Rock Hell and Ramblin' Man Fair, and in 2018 their first-ever live show in the US at Melodic Rock Fest 5.


When not touring, FM have been busy in the studio and since their 2010 'comeback' album they have released 2013's double helping of Rockville and Rockville II; Heroes And Villains in 2015 and Atomic Generation in 2018 along with Indiscreet 30 - a new 2016 recording of FM's classic debut album to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its release - and The Italian Job live DVD/CD. Sychronized was released in 2020 followed by the aptly-titled thirteenth studio album Thirteen in 2022.


2024 sees FM celebrate their 40th Anniversary with the release of the band's fourteenth studio album Old Habits Die Hard accompanied as ever by an extensive touring schedule.





Tracklisting:


"Out Of The Blue"
"Don't Need Another Heartache"
"No Easy Way Out"
"Lost"
"Whatever It Takes"
"Black Water"
"Cut Me Loose"
"Leap of Faith"
"California"
"Another Day On My World"
"Blue Sky Mind"


Japan bonus track:


"Whatever It Takes" (Acoustic)


"Out Of The Blue" video:





FM previously announced their “Old Habits Die Hard” 40th Anniversary Tour. Find the complete tour itinerary and ticket links at fmofficial.com.





Band lineup:


Steve Overland – Vocals, Guitar
Merv Goldsworthy – Bass Guitar
Pete Jupp – Drums
Jem Davis – Keyboards
Jim Kirkpatrick – Guitar


(Photo - Paul Stuart Hollingsworth)

Prong have released their new single, the regular cover version of the Rush classic "Working Man". Prong's cover appears as a shorter version on their latest album, State of Emergency, available on Steamhammer/SPV.


Commenting on Prong's version of "Working Man", Tommy Victor had this to say: "Rush had the big riffs and that’s something Prong always wants as well. Especially in the song 'Working Man' with that all-time classic opening riff. Prong being a power trio also connects us to this great Canadian band, and ironically we’re going out on tour with another great Canadian band, Vöivod!”


Save the song here, and listen below:







Prong's State Of Emergency is available on CD, LP and for digital download. Order here.





Tracklisting:


"The Descent"
"State of Emergency"
"Breaking Point"
"Non-Existence"
"Light Turns Black"
"Who Told Me"
"Obeisance"
"Disconnected"
"Compliant"
"Back (NYC)
"Working Man" (Rush cover)


"State Of Emergency" lyric video:





“The Descent” video:





"Non-Existence" lyric video:





"Breaking Point" lyric video:

Blacktop Mojo has shared a feel-good lyric video for "As The Light Fades", which takes you back to a carefree time when you felt you could do anything and go anywhere, as long as you were home before dark. "As The Light Fades" is good old-fashioned rock n' roll.


"We wanted a lyric video to go along with 'As The Light Fades' that represented the nostalgia of summer times past and how it felt to run wild and free," says Blacktop Mojo vocalist Matt James.







Stream / download “As The Light Fades” now at this location.


“As The Light Fades” is the newest single from Blacktop Mojo's upcoming fifth album, Pollen, due out April 5, 2024.


The cover art for Pollen can be seen below. Pre-orders can be placed here.





Check out the previously released tracks "Like Wild Horses" and "Red Enough":








In live news, Clutch have announced their upcoming New World Samurai Tour 2024, with support from Blacktop Mojo and The Native Howl. The trek kicks off on April 26 in Richmond, VA, and concludes on May 19 in Columbus, OH.


Dates and a video trailer can be found below.





April
26 - Richmond, VA - The National
27 - Wilmington, DE - The Queen
29 - Bloomington, IL - The Castle Theatre


May
1 - Colorado Springs, CO - Black Sheep
2 - Estes Park, CO - Stanley Hotel
3 - Estes Park, CO - Stanley Hotel
4 - Aspen, CO - Belly Up Aspen
5 - Grand Junction, CO - Mesa Theater
7 - Lubbock, TX - The Garden
9 - Pelham, TN - The Caverns
10 - Columbia, SC - The Senate
11 - Daytona, FL - Welcome To Rockville
12 - Pensacola, FL - Vinyl Music Hall
14 - Columbia, MO - The Blue Note
15 - Fayetteville, AR - JJ's Live
17 - Sioux City, IA - Anthem at Hard Rock
18 - Belvidere - IL - The Apollo Theatre
19 - Columbus, OH - Sonic Temple





 

Last month, IRON MAIDEN's Bruce Dickinson revealed the addition of two new guitarists to his solo touring band, which will hit the road in April in support of his latest solo album, "The Mandrake Project". Swedish-born guitarist, songwriter and multi-platinum-credited producer Philip Näslund and Swiss session and touring guitarist Chris Declercq (who incidentally played on Dickinson's current single, "Rain On The Graves") will accompany previously announced members Dave Moreno (drums),Mistheria (keyboards) and Tanya O'Callaghan (bass). Bruce's longtime guitarist and collaborator Roy "Z" Ramirez will not be part of the touring lineup.

In a new interview with Paul Anthony of Planet Rock, Bruce stated about Roy's absence from the touring band (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "[It] is disappointing, but there you are. He had a lot of stuff going on at home. And basically there's stuff he could be doing in the studio. We are in the middle of doing Dolby Atmos mixes for all of my back catalog, and that requires quite a lot of stuff, 'cause we're not just remixing; we are also — what's the expression? — reimagining some of the albums. So some of the albums that should have been, frankly, a bit heavier, like 'Balls To Picasso', we can stick some new stuff on, and there's some stuff that didn't get mixed on to the album that was recorded that we can take a view on as well. So there's quite a lot of exciting stuff going on there, so there's gonna be lots for him to get on with whilst we're touring."

He continued: "But we've got two fantastic guitar players, Philip Näslund from Sweden and Chris Declercq, who actually is already on the record, because he played the solo on 'Rain On The Graves'. So he's based in L.A. He's a Swiss guy, but he lives in L.A., [is] based in L. A. And Philipwas based in L.A. but now lives back in Sweden. So it's gonna be an incredible band. I jammed with both guitar players. And I was, like, 'You know, I'm just gonna take both of them.' Obviously, there's a lot of twin guitar parts on the record. And there's also quite a bit of keyboards on the record and lots of stuff. So there'll be no idle hands on stage. But it'll sound magnificent. I've already jammed with Tanya and Chris and Philip and Dave Moreno when I was out in L.A., just to give it a quick once around the houses with some of the tunes, and it was so exciting. It really was."

Asked how many of the songs from "The Mandrake Project" will be performed live on the upcoming tour, Bruce said: "Well, I wanna make sure that people come to the show and just go away going, 'Well, that was great, cracking. You can't expect people… I mean, it's not like the Sermon On The Mount, where you turn up and it's, like, 'And you're gonna have this, whether you like it or not. So I'm gonna play certainly four tracks off the new record, and we'll just see how it goes. It's not a situation like a MAIDEN situation where, because we have a big show, because we have everything coordinated with the lights and monsters and pyro and everything, once we get out there, the show is pretty much set in stone, what we're gonna play. Well, this one, we can swap it around a little bit. I mean, if we start doing rehearsals and we go, 'Wow, this feels great. Why don't we chop in another song?' I wasn't gonna play anything off 'Skunkworks'. Now I'm not so sure, 'cause it turns out that both guitarists and the drummer are mad, keen fans of that album. So I'd just done an Atmos mix of 'Skunkworks' with the blessing of [the LP's original producer] Jack Endino, and it sounds brilliant. And I was in there with, with Chris and he's, like, 'Oh, can you play that track?' I went, 'How'd you know that track?' He goes, 'I love this album.' 'Wow.' So, there'll be a lot of stuff. There'll be stuff off 'The Chemical Wedding', obviously, gotta play 'Tears Of The Dragon' and so on and so forth, there'll be stuff off 'Accident Of Birth'. So it's gonna be a smorgasbord of the best-of, 'cause it's been 19, 20 years since I've toured live [as a solo artist]. So lots of people have either never seen me live or the ones that have seen me live have forgotten how bad it was, and have bought tickets. [Laughs]"

The first chance to see the six-piece live will now be at The Observatory in Orange County, California on April 15.

Roy played guitar on Dickinson's 1994 album "Balls To Picasso" and went on to produce, co-write and perform multiple instruments on Bruce's subsequent three solo albums, "Accident At Birth" (1997),"The Chemical Wedding" (1998) and "Tyranny Of Souls" (2005).

O'Callaghan is an Irish musician who joined WHITESNAKE in 2021 and toured with the David Coverdale-fronted outfit the following year. She also hit the road with Dickinson last year as part of a performance of Jon Lord's "Concerto For Group And Orchestra" on nearly a dozen dates in Europe and South America.

Californian drummer Moreno previously played on "Tyranny Of Souls" and has worked with BODY COUNT, Jizzy Pearl, Dizzy Reed and Steve Stevens, among others.

Italian keyboard wizard Mistheria has collaborated with an array of artists live and in the studio, including Rob Rock, Mike Portnoy, Jeff Scott Soto and Joel Hoekstra.

"The Mandrake Project" arrived on March 1 via BMG.

Bruce and Roy recorded "The Mandrake Project" largely at Los Angeles's Doom Room, with Roy doubling up as both guitarist and bassist. The recording lineup for "The Mandrake Project" was rounded out by Mistheria and Moreno, both of whom also featured on Bruce's last solo studio album, "Tyranny Of Souls", in 2005.

Dickinson made his recording debut with IRON MAIDEN on the "Number Of The Beast" album in 1982. He quit the band in 1993 in order to pursue his solo career and was replaced by Blaze Bayley, who had previously been the lead singer of the metal band WOLFSBANE. After releasing two traditional metal albums with former MAIDEN guitarist Adrian Smith, Dickinson rejoined the band in 1999 along with Smith. Since then, Dickinson has only released one more solo album (the aforementioned "Tyranny Of Souls") but has previously said that his solo career is not over.

In a recent interview with "Loudwire Nights", Dickinson talked about his hectic recording and touring schedule after coming out of a two-year pandemic. He said: "We all got locked up for three years, so in that time, it gives you a lot of things — perspective, a chance to let ideas breathe, and a chance to discriminate against what's truly important and what's really not important. Now, of course, the world is back and we are just crazy busy.

"This year is gonna be nuts for me, which I don't have a problem with," he continued. "As long as my legs stay attached to the rest of my body, I'm gonna be okay. Don't go swimming with sharks. I've got basically 90 shows this year, just under, between the solo tour, which goes up to 21 of July, and then the MAIDEN tour that starts at the beginning of September and goes right the way through to just two weeks before Christmas. So that's full-on. There's like a three-week break in the middle, but that's it, during which time we'll be doing absolutely nothing — lying down somewhere going, 'Okay.' Recharge the batteries and off we go for round two. But it's really exciting, the intensity of it all."

The 65-year-old singer, who is also releasing "The Mandrake Project" 12-issue comic book series, added: And, yeah, it's not over. I mean, the comic's gonna go on for three years, just under. And in terms of music, obviously 'The Mandrake Project', the album is done, out March the 1st, and then we'll see how people take to it. But I'm going to be writing music in two or three weeks, I hope, with Roy again, because we've got more stuff we wanna do. So, yeah, there'll be another album, because we already have 10 or 12 different ideas for it."

Photo credit: John McMurtrie

The Native Howl, purveyors of their own genre-blurring sound "Thrash Grass" who captivated audiences by winning Season 1 of the hit TV series No Cover, have dropped their new song "Mercy" (via Sumerian Records).


"Mercy" features a special guest appearance by Halestorm vocalist Lzzy Hale, who also served as one of five celebrity judges on No Cover, alongside Alice Cooper, Gavin Rossdale, Bishop Briggs and Tosin Abasi. 







Stream / download "Mercy" here.





Clutch have announced their upcoming New World Samurai Tour 2024, with support from Blacktop Mojo and The Native Howl. The trek kicks off on April 26 in Richmond, VA, and concludes on May 19 in Columbus, OH.


Dates and a video trailer can be found below.





April
26 - Richmond, VA - The National
27 - Wilmington, DE - The Queen
29 - Bloomington, IL - The Castle Theatre


May
1 - Colorado Springs, CO - Black Sheep
2 - Estes Park, CO - Stanley Hotel
3 - Estes Park, CO - Stanley Hotel
4 - Aspen, CO - Belly Up Aspen
5 - Grand Junction, CO - Mesa Theater
7 - Lubbock, TX - The Garden
9 - Pelham, TN - The Caverns
10 - Columbia, SC - The Senate
11 - Daytona, FL - Welcome To Rockville
12 - Pensacola, FL - Vinyl Music Hall
14 - Columbia, MO - The Blue Note
15 - Fayetteville, AR - JJ's Live
17 - Sioux City, IA - Anthem at Hard Rock
18 - Belvidere - IL - The Apollo Theatre
19 - Columbus, OH - Sonic Temple





Check out two previously released tracks from The Native Howl, "Can't Sleep" and "Sons Of Destruction":








For further details, follow The Native Howl on Facebook.


 


 

Hatebreed frontman Jamey Jasta has announced May 17, 2024 as the release date of his new Jasta album ...And Jasta For All.


"Years in the making," commented the singer. "Totally DIY. Supporter & self funded! Let’s goooo!" Pre-orders can be placed now at this location.


The brand new Jasta studio album ...And Jasta For All is comprised of ten crushing thrash tracks featuring Steve "Zetro" Souza from Exodus, Scott Ian from Anthrax, Chuck Billy from Testament, Phil Demmel from Vio-lence, and more!




The artwork, an obvioius tribute to Metallica's ...And Justice For All, was created by Dan Goldsworthy. A promotional flyer, as well as the CD packaging and tracklisting can be found below.





Tracklisting:


"They See Us Prey"
"Armor Your Mind"
"Create The Now"
"R.M.P.C."
"Suicidality"
"Assimilation Agenda"
"Ring Of Truth"
"Terminal Lucidity"
"No Dream Is Free"
"The Phoenix Way"





Check out the previously released single and visualizer for "Assimilation Agenda", featuring Steve "Zetro" Souza from Bay Area legends, Exodus. Stream the track here.


"The whole album is a love letter to thrash but this song in particular is a great example of what’s to come and one of my favorites," said Jasta. "A duet with Zetro that will get the circle pits going hard!"


The song was recorded/mixed/mastered by Nick Bellmore at Dexters Lab Recording in Milford, CT. 








 

A new fossil has just been named Serpula alicecooperi in honor of the American singer and performer Alice Cooper. Alice joins several other legendary musicians like Tony Iommi (BLACK SABBATH),Lemmy (MOTÖRHEAD),King Diamond and THE ROLLING STONES, to name but a few, who all have fossils named in their honor.

Serpula alicecooperi is 190 million years old, and represents a serpulid worm, a kind of marine worm who constructed a calcific tube it lived in. They live by filtering the sea water with their crown of tentacles, and when they feel threatened, they can retract their bodies into the tube that closes with a lid. The fossil was found by amateur geologist Mette Hoftstedt in the 190-million-year-old Hasle Sandstone on the Danish Island of Bornholm and was handed over to the researchers on Geomuseum Faxe in Denmark to be studied and identified. The study describing and naming the fossil was conducted by researchers Tomas Koči from the Natural History Museum in Prague, Czech Republic, Jesper Milàn and Sten Lennart Jakobsen from Geomuseum Faxe, Denmark and Arden Basforth from the Natural History Museum of Denmark.

Milàn says: "When we studied the fossil, it quickly became clear that it was a new and unknown species of serpulid worm we were dealing with. Being both a palaeontologist and a huge fan of metal and rock music, I have always thought that if somebody deserved to have a fossil named in his honor, it should be Alice for his enormous impact on the musical scene during the last half decade, and his music has been firmly playing in the background during much of my research.

"Serpulid worms were pioneers in their particular lifestyle when they first evolved, and they became an abundant element in the ocean's ecosystems at the beginning of the Jurassic period, about 190 million years ago, and they are still around to this very day. Alice was a pioneer of the chock rock scene when he arrived during the late sixties, and he is still around to this very day."

The scientific paper is published in Bulletin Of The Geological Society Of Denmark and can be downloaded here.

Scientists have been naming species in honor of celebrities since the 18th century. According to The Conversation, the father of taxonomy, Carl Linnaeus, coined names to curry the favor (and open the purses) of rich patrons.

According to BBC, an estimated 17,000 to 24,000 animal species are identified every year. The scientists who identify the new species get to choose a name. Often they pick one that alludes to distinguishing features of the animal, or the place it is found, but some choose the name of someone they respect or admire.

Some researchers have said that naming a new species after a celebrity is a way to bring attention to spiders and other animals who are otherwise ignored.

There are plenty of other animals, plants and other fascinating bits of nature named after rock and metal musicians, including those named after Dave Mustaine (MEGADETH),METALLICA, Freddie Mercury (QUEEN) and SEPULTURA.

Ancient Settlers will release their new album Oblivion's Legacy on May 17 through Scarlet Records.


The sophomore record of the Venezuelan/Spanish band was produced, mixed and mastered by Fredrick Nordstrom at Studio Fredman; Jon Toussas (Suicidal Angels, Nightrage, W.E.B.) took care of the shining artwork.


Ancient Settlers quickly gained a fierce reputation in the melodic death metal European scene thanks to a relentless live activity, and are now eager to raise the bar with their second studio album.




Guided by the demoniac vocals of frontwoman Argen Death, they master the melodeath subject with absolute confidence through storming heavy riffs, thick grooves and catchy hooks (just like the Swedish godfathers taught us all).


Oblivion's Legacy is a conceptual work that delves into the profound depths of human existence, exploring the legacy we leave behind as individuals and as a species. The lyrics contemplate the impact of our actions, the struggles we face, and the ultimate fate that awaits us all.


Set against a backdrop of cosmic wonder and existential introspection, each song serves as a chapter in the unfolding narrative of humanity's journey through time and space.


Oblivion's Legacy will be released in the following formats:
- jewel case CD
- vinyl LP
- digital





Tracklisting:


“The Circle Of Misanthropy”
“Oblivion’s Legacy”
“Stardust Odyssey”
“Wounded Heart”
“Subversive”
“Coven Garden”
“The Mechanical Threats Paradox”
“The Last Battle In The Earth”
“Cosmic Farewell”
“Redemption”


Tour dates:


March
16 – Andoain, Spain – Andoaingo Gaztetxean


July
5 – Lucerne, Switzerland – Brunch Brothers
7 – Prachatice, Czech Republic – South Of Heaven Open Air


September
7 – Bree, Belgium – Metal Babes & Queens Festival
8 – Paris, France – Le Klub 





(Photo – Juan Lopez)

Italian metallers, Ancillotti, have issued an update, announcing new drummer Francesco Jovino.


Says the band: "Dear friends, it’s a difficult announcement to make, especially this one... but our original drummer Brian after a long reflection decided to call himself out of Ancillotti for personal reasons that have nothing to do with the music or other band members. We are shaken by Brian decision, but we respect his private and personal reasons.


Brian has been with Ancillotti since the very beginning so to say goodbye to a brother and family member is not easy especially this one, but his contribution on our studio albums, tour, memories and friendship will never be broken and after all these years together we'll miss him.




The band and crew want to thank you Brian for all your love and support of the band and you know brother.... this will never be a goodbye!


The band is now deep into the writing process of the upcoming album so we're very proud to announce that we will carry on our flag with our dear brother Francesco Jovino as new permanent member and new Ancillotti drummer!


Francesco has been a band friend for a very long time and we think he needs no introduction, he has played and recorded drums in U.D.O., the German band of Accept frontman Udo Dirkschneider, Primal Fear, and is the current drummer for Jorn Lande!


Francesco will appear on Ancillotti's new album, upcoming tour and gigs so we want to give a big welcome to Francesco in the Ancillotti family. Francesco is an amazing drummer and a wonderful guy so we are sure he is the right person to replace Brian in the band... welcome aboard brother!


As soon as possible, Ancillotti will be back on stage for a few live shows, not a real tour, where we will be performing a special setlist for the first time with Cesco behind the drums maybe playing a few new songs from the upcoming new album!


A big hug to you all, thank you for your support all over these years and stay focused on our social pages for all upcoming band news... we're coming!


Check out Cesco's official Facebook page at =facebook.com/francesco.jovino.7.


See you on the road!"

U.S. rockers HIGH ON FIRE will release their new album, "Cometh The Storm", on April 19 via MNRK Heavy. The Grammy Award-winning group, celebrating its 25th anniversary, recorded the LP at GodCity Studio in Salem, Massachusetts with producer Kurt Ballou. The 11-song effort — the band's ninth studio album — marks the release of the first new HIGH ON FIRE music since 2018's "Electric Messiah" and the first to feature drummer Coady Willis (BIG BUSINESS, MURDER CITY DEVILS),alongside bassist Jeff Matz and guitarist/vocalist Matt Pike.

Today, HIGH ON FIRE releases a video for the new record's lead track, "Burning Down", captured live and on location at GodCity by Jason Zucco during the recording of "Cometh The Storm". Portions of the video footage feature direct takes of the LP's recording sessions, including the fervent vocals of Matt Pike.

The drop of the "Burning Down" video follows the release of a haunting, fever dream visualizer for the powerhouse song, created by Lars Kristoffer Hormander.

"'Burning Down' kicks off with a classic Pike riff," says Jeff Matz. "I think this song harkens back to the early HIGH ON FIRE sound, but infused with fresh, new elements. It has a killer groove that you can really sink into. The body of the song took shape in our PNW rehearsal space, and we came up with the bridge/solo section and finalized the arrangement while we were at GodCity. Kurt Ballou's input as a producer was also hugely helpful. His keen ears and fresh perspective were invaluable in making this album."

"I think this band's always had a really good drive," states Pike. "It's a different entity. It's its own thing. Which, I think, makes all of us very proud to be a part of it. It's not an average band."

"Being a fan of each other's bands for a long time, it feels like all bets are off and anything goes which is a liberating feeling," shares Willis. "That feeling of making something out of all of these imperfect parts and it becomes this magical, weird, new idea that none of us ever anticipated. Against all odds. That's the joy of it."

"It's interesting, whenever there's a lineup change in a band," offers Ballou. "It can take a little while to rebuild. But it's also an opportunity to reinvigorate the band and I think that's what's happened here."

"Cometh The Storm" track listing:

01. Lambsbread
02. Burning Down
03. Trismegistus
04. Cometh The Storm
05. Karanlık Yol
06. Sol's Golden Curse
07. The Beating
08. Tough Guy
09. Lightning Beard
10. Hunting Shadows
11. Darker Fleece

Universally recognized as one of the most potent acts in music today, HIGH ON FIRE creates dynamic metal that merges primal fury and aggression, hesher bombast and hall of fame heaviness. Described as "a supersonic exercise in conquest by volume," HIGH ON FIRE has rewritten the hard rock rule book since its formation in 1998, forging a style and sound that is both critically celebrated and unique. The group features vocalist and cult guitar hero Matt Pike (also a founding member of the famed underground band SLEEP) singular bassist Jeff Matz and powerhouse drummer Coady Willis.

HIGH ON FIRE's most recent studio album, "Electric Messiah", was released on October 9, 2018, and won a Grammy for "Best Metal Performance", placing HIGH ON FIRE among the ranks of groups such as BLACK SABBATH, MOTÖRHEAD and METALLICA as winners of the prestigious award, presented by The Recording Academy to recognize achievements in the music industry.

Photo credit: James Rexroad

Omnivide, a progressive metal band formed in 2020, is on the cusp of releasing their debut album, A Tale Of Fire, in March 2024. Comprising members with diverse musical influences, the band aimed to create a unique blend of progressive, death, and symphonic metal. The album is a musical journey, alternating between intense heaviness and beautiful, emotional sections. Omnivide seeks to offer listeners a complete experience, combining excitement, energy, and contrasting emotions throughout the album. 


The third single “Cosmic Convergence” takes the listener to the end of days, which the band explains in further detail:


“Lyrically, this song is about the Big Crunch, the opposite of the Big Bang, when astrophysicists predict that the universe will stop expanding and instead collapse on itself back to a single, infinitely small and dense point of matter. The lyrics describe this process in a poetic way in the first section of the song, with the final chorus shifting perspectives from that of the universe itself to a single human witnessing this process, with the lines ‘One final cry/Begging not to die/As all we are is swallowed by stars’.”




“Cosmic Convergence” was written by Samuel Frenette and is composed of some fast and technical riffs, some more straightforward, but all very melodic with heavy layers of orchestration, and a lot of clean vocals compared to most songs on the album. This song is extremely high-octane in a melancholic and epic way that tries to communicate the sense of desperation and urgency of the lyrics, with the song being about the end of the universe.


The relentless energy of the music matches the lyrical content, which describes how humans came from the earth but are now polluting it and over-consuming its resources to the point of changing the global climate. It paints a metaphor of humans being gluttons that are taking pieces of the earth for themselves with no self-control or regard for the planet, and the earth shifting from being a fertile ground for human life to actively trying to eradicate a species that has essentially become a parasite.


Omnivide’s goal is to have their music illustrate the brutality and destructive power of nature, which can and will defend itself when threatened, and does so in a ruthless manner that is almost incomprehensible to our human minds. “Opulence” serves as a prime example of their musical diversity, with its relentless energy and thought-provoking lyrics. It is recommended for fans of The Black Dahlia Murder, Opeth, and Alkaloid.


Preorder here.





Tracklisting:


“Clarity”
“Opulence”
“Desolate”
“A Tale Of Fire”
“Cosmic Convergence”
“Holy Killer”
“Death Be Not Proud”
“Stoned Dragon”


"Cosmic Convergence" lyric video:





“Opulence” playthrough:





(Photo – Deepti Suddul)

Blackened master distiller and blender Rob Dietrich and METALLICA have shared "How They Got Their Start", a new episode in an exclusive series of conversations titled "The Blending Sessions" in which they reveal what goes into making music and whiskey. Tune in to learn more about their creative process, shared passions and the artistry behind every sip and riff.

In the latest episode, METALLICA's Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo, along with Dietrich, share their humble beginnings and what fueled their passions to come full circle on the Blackened whiskey collaboration.

Blackened Whiskey is born from METALLICA's spirit of innovation, steeped in science, and honed by seasoned experts. This award-winning whiskey is a blend of the finest straight bourbon and rye whiskeys and uniquely finished and sonically enhanced in brandy casks, using the Black Noise process to extract more flavor from the wood. The original recipe was envisioned by Blackened's founding master distiller Dave Pickerell. Blackened is now crafted and propelled onward by category disruptor and master distiller and blender Rob Dietrich. The result is a magnificently balanced whiskey ideal for sipping neat, on the rocks, or enjoyed in a classic signature cocktail.

Pickerell died suddenly in November 2018 in San Francisco where he was scheduled to take part in the annual WhiskyFest event.

Dietrich also has a connection to the music industry on his resume, with experience as a concert promoter and tour manager.

"When we needed to begin searching for our next master distiller, it was a priority to find someone who could honor and continue the magic that Dave started," METALLICA said in 2019 when Dietrich's addition to the Blackened team was announced. "Rob shares a great respect for craftsmanship that Dave had and that we have for Blackened and our music."

Blackened's whiskey has won numerous accolades, including Double Gold at the SIP Awards (2021),Double Gold at the PR%F Awards (2021),Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2020),Platinum at the Ascot Awards (2021) and Gold at the John Barleycorn Awards (2022). The band's limited-edition releases, including Rye The Lightning and Blackened's Masters Of Whiskey Series: Willett, have also taken home a number of Gold and Double Gold honors.

Formed in 1981 by vocalist/guitarist James Hetfield and drummer Lars Ulrich, METALLICA has become one of the most influential and successful rock bands in history, selling nearly 120 million albums worldwide and generating more than 15 billion streams while playing to millions of fans on all seven continents. METALLICA's catalog of multi-platinum studio albums includes "Kill 'Em All", "Ride The Lightning", "Master Of Puppets", "… And Justice For All", "Metallica" (commonly referred to as The Black Album),"Load", "Reload", "St. Anger", "Death Magnetic", "Hardwired… To Self-Destruct" and the new "72 Seasons", released April 14, 2023, on the band's own Blackened Recordings label. METALLICA's awards and accolades include nine Grammy Awards, two American Music Awards, multiple MTV Video Music Awards, a 2009 induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, and Sweden's Polar Music Prize. In 2017, METALLICA established its charitable foundation, All Within My Hands, to give back to communities that have supported the band. To date, All Within My Hands and METALLICA have provided nearly $16 million in grants to career and technical education programs, organizations combating food insecurity, and critical local services and disaster relief efforts.

Northlane have revealed their stunning new single "Afterimage" featuring Ian Kenny of Karnivool. "Afterimage" is the third piece of new music from the band’s forthcoming EP, Mirror's Edge, out April 12 (Independent).


Preorder the EP here.


Northlane recently debuted "Afterimage" in the live realm during their huge Australian tour, which set the internet alight and left fans hanging to hear the studio version. A nod to their Node-era, Northlane have always pointed to Karnivool as one of their biggest influences; Ian Kenny’s vocals sit so naturally in "Afterimage" that the song feels written just for him. It makes sense given, according to guitarist Jon Deiley, touring with Karnivool in 2013 had such a profound impact on his songwriting.




"Touring with Karnivool changed my perspective on songwriting by showing me a solid groove is more interesting than some flashy technical bit. Writing a good groove means you can exploit it in different ways while still keeping it interesting over time," says Deiley. "Karnivool influenced Northlane by showing us that songwriting and nailing every transition live is more important than jumping around. We hopped on the 'Asymmetry' tour years ago and were still riding the success of 'Singularity' when we discovered pretty quickly some fans just want to stand and enjoy you playing the music perfectly. I think that's where our unhealthy hyper-critical evaluation of our performance came from!"


A pensive song about reflecting on the past whilst looking ahead to a better future, "Afterimage" arrives after previous singles "Miasma" and "Dante" and is the final preview before Mirror's Edge arrives on April 12.


Mirror's Edge was recorded with their old friend and revered producer Will Putney in August this year. Described by Jon Deiley (songwriter/guitarist) as "the greatest hits of Northlane sounds," the EP is a nostalgic journey through all the colors on their sonic palette, with bonus shades from special guests Winston McCall (Parkway Drive) and Ian Kenny (Karnivool/Birds of Tokyo) — two of the most influential artists in Northlane's history. Their former bass player, Brendon Padjasek, also stopped by the studio to lend his scream to one of the tracks. 


Penned just over a year after the release of their #1 award-winning album, Obsidian, the road to Mirror's Edge was a bumpy one. Instead of riding high from the success of the album, the simmering tension and communication breakdown between band members threatened to engulf Northlane at any moment. Northlane tackled their issues head-on at a writing retreat in Victoria's Yarra Valley, where they worked through their problems and unlocked new channels of creativity in the process that reflects through the EP. From the expansive prog of "Afterimage" to their signature bottom-heavy groove and viscous breakdown of "Kraft" and compulsive beat and electronic focus of "Dante," Mirror's Edge is full of Northlane's most vivid colours and textures. 


Thematically, the EP is about looking at yourself and reflecting on the past one final time before leaving it all behind to find hope in what lies beyond the mirror's edge. With the recurring theme of acceptance binding these songs together, frontman Marcus Bridge is hopeful that Mirror's Edge will be the coda on this part of his personal life, so much of which he has shared in the last couple of Northlane releases.


"It's like looking at your reflection, looking at the past and everything I've been thinking about, or caught up within the last little while," Bridge says. "There's not much positivity in these songs, but it is about acceptance. Hopefully, by putting these songs out, I can leave that stuff behind and I can kind of find a new direction and something to be positive about on the other side of this mirror's edge."





Tracklisting:


“Mirror’s Edge”
“Afterimage” (feat. Ian Kenny)
“Miasma” (feat. Winston McCall)
“Let Me Disappear”
“Kraft” (feat. Brendon Padjasek)
“Dante”


"Afterimage" visualizer:





“Miasma”:





(Photo – Kane Hibberd)

Relapse Records has announced the April 12 release of Special Edition Foil Jacket reissues of six titles from legendary American death metal band, Death.


The special edition represses come with limited edition deluxe silver foil laminated jackets pressed on custom tri color merge with splatter.


The following titles will be available:




Scream Bloody Gore
Leprosy
Spiritual Healing
Human
Individual Thought Patterns
The Sound Of Perseverance (2XLP)


Pre-order here, and watch a video trailer below:

The original members of the Danish metal band MNEMIC will reunite, after an 18-year hiatus, for a series of 20th-anniversary performances. This revered lineup includes vocalist Michael Bøgballe, guitarists Mircea Gabriel Eftemie and Rune Stigart, bassist Tomas "Obeast" Koefoed and drummer Brian "Brylle" Rasmussen.

The MNEMIC reunion is significant as it marks the first time this particular lineup has performed together since 2005, a pivotal year in the band's history. It was during this period that Bøgballe made his departure, subsequently replaced by the late Guillaume Bideau, whose contributions have also left an indelible mark.

Fans, both long-standing and newly acquainted, can anticipate a full-on energetic performance featuring songs from the acclaimed inaugural albums "Mechanical Spin Phenomena" and "Audio Injected Soul", released, respectively, in 2003 and 2004 via Nuclear Blast Records. These releases are characterized by their distinctive mechanical, palm-muted style and powerful choruses, which later influenced and laid groundwork for some of today's djent bands. Notable classics such as "Liquid", "Ghost" and "Deathbox" will be presented with the unmatched precision and intensity that only the original lineup can deliver.

With a devoted fan base spanning an impressive 150 countries, MNEMIC's music continues to reverberate with audiences across the globe. The band eagerly anticipates the opportunity to connect with fans through their upcoming live performances which will be announced very soon.

Bøgballe comments: "It's awesome to be around the guys again and to feel the vibes of pure joy as we played through a 2005 setlist. We made a deal with each other that if we couldn't deliver this with conviction and power, it was not to be. Well, … I haven't felt the overwhelming joy of playing for years. It's going to be intense and I can't wait to get back up on that stage with the boys and to meet the listeners of our music. I still feel we owe you another round."

Eftemie adds: "We're pleased to announce our return with the original lineup. It's been a long time coming, and it feels right to get back to playing music together again. We released music two decades ago that we believe had an impact, and now we're eager to share the music live once more. It's a chance for us to create new experiences together, have some fun and see where things take us."

Photo by Lars Vognsgaard Andersen

Death metal trio Shock Withdrawal will issue their debut full-length The Dismal Advance next week on March 15, 2024, via Brutal Panda Records. Today, the band shares “No Closure”, the closing track on the album.


Additionally, Shock Withdrawal will be hosting a free Bandcamp listening party for The Dismal Advance next week on Wednesday, March 13 at 7 PM EST. Chat with the band while listening to the uncompromising death metal trio's debut album The Dismal Advance before its official release.


Mixed / mastered by Arthur Rizk (Power Trip, Cavalera Conspiracy, Tomb Mold), The Dismal Advance is a 21 minute high-BPM, trauma feedback loop of non-stop shredding, blastbeat precision, and feral sonic volatility that sharply executes a superb balance of riffs, groove and masterful instrumentation. Replete with nihilistic lyrics and post-apocalyptic imagery, The Dismal Advance is a stark reminder that hell can be a place on earth... and some of us live in it.




About the album, vocalist Mitchell Luna had this to say: "Writing this album was an absolute challenge, as we are all spread out throughout different parts of the country, but I am beyond happy with the end result! It's a mix of death metal, grind, and hardcore, and a vast improvement from the EP we put out in 2022. We went the DIY route and recorded the album ourselves with the help of some good friends, and then handed it off to Arthur Rizk so he can work his magic in the mixing/mastering department. It's 21 minutes. No fucking filler. Bleak and painful, yet grounded in reality. Thanks to anyone who listens! Blastbeats forever!"





Tracklisting:


“Constant Fear Of Annihilation”
“Sullen”
“Autonomian”
“Built To Suffer”
“The Dismal Advance”
“Oblivion Seeker”
“Unfit For The World”
“Resentment”
“Nightmare Conduit”
“The Luxury Of Accepting Failure”
“Pain Absorption Threshold”
“Misery Calibration”
“No Closure”


"No Closure":





"The Dismal Advance":





"Built To Suffer":





"Oblivion Seeker":





For further details, follow Shock Withdrawal on Facebook.

The Spanish heavy/power metallers Vhäldemar will release their new album Sanctuary Of Death on May 9 via MDD Records. Preorder at the MDD Records webshop.


 The band's seventh album will feature 11 brand-new tracks, which should make the hearts of every melodic power metal fan beat faster. It's not for nothing that Vhäldemar is considered one of the biggest heavy metal bands in Spain. 


Cover art by Darkgrove (Manowar, Battle Beast):







Tracklisting:


“Devil’s Child”
“Dreambreaker”
“Deathwalker”
“Sanctuary Of Death”
“Forevermore”
“Heavy Metal”
“Old King’s Visions (Part VII)”
“Journey To The Unknown”
“Brothers”
“The Rebel’s Law”
“The Last Flame”


“Old King’s Visions (Part VII)” video:

North Sea Echoes, the duo helmed by Fates Warning members Ray Alder and Jim Matheos, has released another single from their newly released debut album, Really Good Terrible Things. Fans can check out the record's fourth single, "Throwing Stones", along with an accompanying animated video below.


On "Throwing Stones", Alder shares, "This is a strange one. Some people have a fear of happiness. They feel that something painful always follows pleasure. So they're sort of locked into this world where they try to feel nothing. It's called Cherophobia."







Order the Really Good Terrible Things album here.





Tracklisting:


"Open Book"
"Flowers In Decay"
"Unmoved"
"Throwing Stones"
"Empty"
"The Mission"
"Where I'm From"
"We Move Around The Sun"
"Touch The Sky"
"No Maps"


"Empty" video:





"Unmoved" video:





"Open Book" lyric video:





Ray Alder and Jim Matheos' musical legacy is vast and lauded, both as collaborators and individuals. Alder has been the vocalist and main co-writer for prog metal heroes Fates Warning for the past 35 years. With them, he has recorded 10 albums between 1988 (No Exit) and 2020 (Long Day Good Night). Further rounding out his discography are seven albums with Redemption, two solo albums, and the band A-Z with Mark Zonder, which debuted in 2022.


Prolific and pioneering guitarist/producer Matheos is a co-founder of Fates Warning, the lineup debuting with 1984's Night on Bröcken on Metal Blade. In addition to 13 albums with Fates, Matheos' myriad other work includes several solo albums, four albums alongside former Dream Theater keyboardist Kevin Moore, under the name OSI, and new band, Kings of Mercia, a lineup that's been termed "a hybrid; it's heavy, but not metal."


"Throughout Really Good Terrible Things, Matheos and Alder serve up the kind of seductive melancholy Fates Warning fans will recognize," says Jeff Wagner, author of the Fates Warning book Destination Onward. "Yet there's a thoroughly different approach here: vocals are delivered with a sort of nostalgic sadness, and the guitar work is layered in such a way as to feel dreamlike. These are rich sonic landscapes, visiting places haunting, beautiful, spectral and secret. The Matheos/Alder partnership is taken to some new and wonderful places here," Wagner concludes.


Really Good Terrible Things shows the breadth and versatility of the acclaimed pair, along with a freshness that belies their long musical partnership. "We both still love making music and we really enjoy working together. There's a good amount of chemistry there, I think," Matheos shares. "We both know what to expect from each other."





(Photo - Jeremy Saffer)

Today, The Gems are giving the celebrations surrounding International Women’s Day later this week an early kickstart by releasing an official music video for their track “Queens”, representing a story of struggle and unity. The trio made up of ex-Thundermother members Guernica Mancini, Emlee Johansson and Mona “Demona” Lindgren released their debut album, Phoenix, on January 26, which has already won high praise from fans and the press.


With their previous band, The Gems toured with Scorpions, played a VR concert during the Covid pandemic in Berlin's iconic Olympiastadion, as well as performed at many huge international festivals such as Wacken, Sweden Rock and Alcatraz. Now, as a Phoenix, they rise from the ashes and return with even more extraordinary songs.


The Gems on “Queens”: "'Queens' is our tribute to all the strong individuals who have paved the way for us all. We want to remind people about the tough roads they had to walk on, for us to have the possibilities that we have today, as well as acknowledging that the work is far from done and that we aim to carry on in their footsteps.”







Phoenix was mastered by Plec Johannsons (Soilwork, Hank von Hell, Firewind) and its artwork was created by ex-Thundermother member Giorgia Carteri (Soilwork, The Nightflight Orchestra).


The Gems on Phoenix: “Phoenix marks the beginning, the rise of The Gems. This album takes you on a journey through one of our toughest times. Through this creative process we were able to really dig deep and let go of a lot of emotional baggage, and find true happiness in music again. The new found freedom our band has been given us shines through on this album. We couldn't be prouder of what we've accomplished, and the true Rock n Roll Sisterhood and community we've built through these few months of our existence. Phoenix is the perfect album for anyone going through a tough time, having the rug pulled out under you and somehow finding the strength to rebuild. You'll get the full range of emotions, masterfully produced by our dear friend Johan Randén, who we also wrote some of the songs with. We hope people will love Phoenix and really enjoy the epic ride this album will take you on.”


Order here.





Phoenix tracklisting:


"Aurora" - Interlude
"Queens"
"Send Me To The Wolves"
"Domino"
"Silver Tongue"
"Undiscovered Paths"
"Maria's Song" - Interlude
"Ease Your Pain"
"Running"
"Renaissance" - Interlude
"Like A Phoenix"
"P.S.Y.C.H.O"
"Kiss it Goodbye"
"Force Of Nature"
"Fruits Of My Labor"
"Like A Phoenix" - Acoustic Version


"Fruits Of My Labor" lyric video:





“Undiscovered Paths” video:





"P.S.Y.C.H.O" video:





"Send Me To The Wolves" video:





"Like A Phoenix" video:





The Gems are:


Guernica Mancini - Vocals
Emlee Johansson - Drums
Mona “Demona” Lindgren - Guitar, Bass


(Photo - Gustaf Sandholm Andersson)

King Zebra will release their new album, Between The Shadows, on April 12. The band hailing from the picturesque city of Zurich, Switzerland, emerges as the new face of rock in a harmonious fusion of youthful exuberance and veteran wisdom.


Today, the band release the video for new single, "Children Of The Night". Check it out below:







Between The Shadows promises to be a thrilling exploration of sound and emotion, encapsulating the essence of King Zebra's distinctive musical prowess. Pre-order the album here.


King Zebra burst into the music scene with their 2019 EP, a sonic voyage marked by the standout track "Firewalker," amassing over 2 million streams and firmly establishing the band in the hearts of rock enthusiasts globally. Their presence soared as they graced renowned festivals like Rock the Ring and Rock of Ages, sharing stages with iconic acts such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, Uriah Heep, and Rose Tattoo.


In 2020, King Zebra embarked on a transformative journey to Crehate Studios in Gothenburg, Sweden, to craft their sophomore album, Survivors, under the skilled guidance of producer Oscar Nilsson. The collaboration with ex-Thundermother singer Guernica Mancini on "Wall Of Confusion" elevated their sound, resonating with fans and critics alike. The album found a home with Golden Robot Records, paving the way for extensive touring throughout Europe, sharing stages with notable acts like Crash Diet.


Now, signed to Frontiers Records, King Zebra is poised to deliver their next sonic masterpiece, Between The Shadows, meticulously produced once again by Oscar Nilsson. This highly anticipated album promises a musical journey three years in the making.


Between The Shadows is set to showcase the culmination of dedication, passion, and attention to detail that defines King Zebra's distinctive sound, characterized by former China vocalist Eric St. Michaels. As the band fills their schedule with live dates, the world eagerly anticipates the release of this new chapter in King Zebra's musical legacy.





Tracklisting:


"Starlight"
"Children Of The Night"
"Wicked"
"Dina"
"Love Lies"
"Cyanide"
"With You Forever"
"Love Me Tonight"
"Out In The Wild"
"Restless Revolution"


"Dina" video:

Grand Slam co-founding member Laurence Archer, and frontman Mike Dyer, make it extraordinarily clear that theirs has been a true journey of destiny, one where early unions ended up leaving unfinished business on the table, and one which finally sees Grand Slam attending to said business with the brand-new album, Wheel Of Fortune.


Their story is one of persistence and craft, ensuring that the best elements of Grand Slam’s history were absorbed and fused with the experiences and drive of relationships stretching decades.


However, do not make the mistake of thinking this is a band returning from a past: it’s a band fulfilling their present and future with willfulness and desire that permeate every song on Wheel Of Fortune, from Archer’s faultless, fearless fret-driven song architecture on "Spitfire" to Dyer’s swagger and style on "There Goes My Heart." There are moments such as "Come Together (In Harlem)" where the moody strut of original co-founder Phil Lynott is unmistakable, yet the multi-layered steamy swing of "Pirate Song" makes it very clear where Grand Slam is coming from.




“I want everybody to see this as a new band… and anybody that hasn’t heard Grand Slam since 1984, I want them to see this as a fresh invigoration of the project moving into the modern times.” – Laurence Archer


Joined by Benjy Reid on drums and Rocky Newton on bass, some best-laid plans for the band’s rebirth were set for take-off until Covid-19 brought the world to a standstill (it is one of the main reasons Hit The Ground will also be enjoying a 2024 release alongside Wheel Of Fortune). However, the creative fire and will to propel Grand Slam got stronger still.


“We have a direction that is in my heart. It’s a tribal place. This band is something very special; I’m slightly biased I know, but God, I’m really proud of that.” – Mike Dyer


Out now, "There Goes My Heart" is the first single to be released from Grand Slam’s brand new studio album, Wheel Of Fortune.


“Laurence sent me ‘There Goes My Heart’, and with total respect to Laurence, I’m not a man of ‘hearts’ in that sense,” chuckles Dyer. “So instead of singing about the ex, I twisted on it. It sounds like your heart, but what you’re singing about is your E-Type Jag. We shot the video for that in Spain, and that very much has a twist in it too.”


Watch the music video for "There Goes My Heart, directed, produced and edited by Paul M Green, below.


Wheel Of Fortune is a testimony to both Archer’s songwriting architecture and Dyer’s powerful love of language: he wastes no time sinking his teeth into the storytelling aspect of the songs, from WWII fighter pilots to ethereal reflections on lost loved ones and near-death experiences, Dyer is a supreme storyteller.


“The way I look at it is that from writing those songs with Phil in 1984 to now, my writing style and the way I write, haven’t really changed that much,” offers Archer. “I’m not a shredder, I prefer to write songs and build that way. So, there’s that timeless continuity in how I write, fusing with all the experiences we’ve had as people over the years.


"I put the basis of the song together, I have a rough melody line, I might write the chorus line, and I give that to Mike who goes away and comes back with his thing: it’s not my thing, it’s his thing and it just works! His vocal tone – his ability – fits everything that I write.”


Wheel Of Fortune will be released in digital and physical formats on June 7. The album will be available in a variety of formats and pre-orders can be placed here.


Grand Slam will also re-release their debut album, Hit The Ground.'Originally released in 2019, the record has been given a makeover.


“I stopped playing for a while and started a film career,” recounts Archer of Hit The Ground. “In 2018 I was working on location in Guadalupe, and I arrived at the decision to record the Grand Slam songs properly, because essentially, what has been out there has not really been representative of what we did back then. Phil and I had done some work-in-progress demos in his backyard studio, and unfortunately, someone stole them and released them. So, it’s always been a goal of mine to re-visit those songs and do them properly, and I had been thinking about showcasing them fittingly for over 30 years, instead of hearing these horrible demos that people put out.”


Re-mixed, re-mastered, and featuring new artwork, Hit The Ground – Revised, will be released on May 10 in digital formats and June 7 in physical formats. Pre-orders can be placed here.


With Grand Slam having just completed videos for the new album in Spain, a series of dates being planned as you read, and an overall joy at everything going on in their world, Grand Slam will be here whether you are or not, because this is not a band rumbling in from their past, it’s a band firing forward into their future.


“We have a strong bond in our writing and our perception of what we want to do,” concludes Archer, “so make no mistake, Grand Slam has only just started.”





Wheel Of Fortune tracklisting:


"There Goes My Heart"
"Starcrossed Lovers"
"Come Together (In Harlem)"
"Trail Of Tears"
"Feeling Is Strong (Jo's Song)"
"Spitfire"
"I Wanna Know!"
"Pirate Song"
"Afterlife"
"Wheel Of Fortune"


"There Goes My Heart" video:





Hit The Ground – Revised tracklisting:


"Gone Are The Days"
"Nineteen"
"Hit The Ground"
"Military Man"
"Crazy"
"Dedication"
"Long Road"
"Sisters Of Mercy"
"Crime Rate"
"Grand Slam" *


* not available on vinyl


Grand Slam are:


Mike Dyer – vocals
Laurence Archer – guitars
Benjy Reid – drums
Rocky Newton – bass


(Photo - Frank Noon)

Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame-inductee and guitar legend, Ace Frehley, has shared the recap video below, stating, "This Monsters of Rock Cruise has been incredible. The fans, the food, the music. Let’s do it again soon!" 🤘🔥⚡️🎸





Ace has topped both the Hard Music and Rock Album charts with his new album, 10,000 Volts. Additionally, the album comes in at #2 on the Independent Chart, #3 on the Internet Albums Charts, and #4 on the Vinyl, Album Sales, and Current Album Sales Charts. The album has also charted internationally, debuting at #1 on the Sweden physical album chart, #13 in Switzerland, #13 on the UK Independent Album Breakers Chart, and #21 on the German album chart, with more to come.




10,000 Volts was released on February 23 via MNRK Heavy, and has sold more in the first week of release than his last studio album, 2018's Spaceman. 10,000 Volts was produced and co-written by Ace and Steve Brown, and the uncontainable energy on the 11 tracks showcases some of Ace's best works since his '78 solo album.


There were 20 vinyl variants available for this project, in addition to the CD and digital versions. Due to overwhelming demand from Ace's fans stateside, European vinyl variants are also now available in the American market. The variants feature unique and visually stunning vinyl colors, including "Metal Gym Locker Splatter," "Dragons Den," and "Orange Tabby." This move directly responds to Ace's audience's requests, showcasing MNRK's commitment to delivering what fans truly desire.


10,000 Volts upholds an incredible legacy for Frehley, spanning 50-plus years in the limelight. Back in 1978, he delivered his solo debut, Ace Frehley. It reached platinum status and exploded as “the highest-selling of the four Kiss solo albums in the Soundscan era.” In 1987, he dropped Frehley’s Comet. Following Anomaly in 2009, he went on to make history once again. His 2014 Space Invader LP captured #9 on the Billboard 200 and emerged as “The only solo album by a past or current Kiss member to reach the Top 10 on the chart.” 2016’s Origins Vol. 1, bowed at #1 on the Billboard Top Hard Rock Albums Chart and in the Top 5 of the Billboard Top Rock Albums Chart. He notably maintained his momentum with Spaceman [2018].


Order the new album here.





10,000 Volts tracklisting:


"10,000 Volts"
"Walkin’ On The Moon"
"Cosmic Heart"
"Cherry Medicine"
"Back Into My Arms Again"
"Fightin’ For Life"
"Blinded"
"Constantly Cute"
"Life Of A Stranger"
"Up In The Sky"
"Stratosphere"


"Cherry Medicine" video:





"Walkin’ On The Moon" video:





"10,000 Volts" video:





Upcoming Ace Frehley tour dates are listed below. Traditional VIP Experience packages are available. Visit AceFrehley.com or scan the code in the poster below.





Dates:


March
28 - New York, NY - Sony Hall
29 - Woonsocket, RI - Stadium Theatre
30 - Rutland, VT - Paramount Theatre


April
12 - Rome, NY - Rome Capitol Theatre
13 - Carteret, NJ - Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center


June
28 - Marion, IL - Marion Cultural & Civic Center


(Photo - Jayme Thornton)

Before The Dawn have unveiled their brand-new single, “Chaos Sequence”, together with an official music video. The relentless song is cut from the band’s upcoming digital EP Archaic Flame, set for release this Friday, March 8 via Napalm Records.


After a decade of silence, the Finnish metal juggernauts shattered expectations with their comeback album, Stormbringers, the subsequent reconquering of Europe’s stages in 2023, and successfully dominating the 70000 Tons of Metal cruise last month.


With “Chaos Sequence”, Before The Dawn unleash another rousing headbanger and catch the listener’s ear instantly with a fast-paced intro and raw death metal facets. Everchanging clean vocals mixed with the deep, visceral growls of vocalist Paavo Laapotti build up to an untamable atmosphere, captured by the official music video.




Before The Dawn on “Chaos Sequence”: “‘Chaos Sequence’ portrays the disarray if the current times as well as the energy that flows inside the band after victorious comeback year. Chaos around us growing unceasingly but at least storm inside the band can easily be tamed and turned into new music.”





Before The Dawn on the EP Archaic Flame: "Activating the band after a decade of slumber that was meant to last forever, there were a lot of question marks in the air. But after each uncertain event was forged into a victory, we are able to look back to 2023 and admit that it became the most successful year in the whole history of the band. Extensive and triumphant Fin and Euro tours showed us that our fans had not forgotten us, and once things were back in motion, we did not want to push breaks and headed back to the studio to record an instant follow-up to Stormbringers in the form of an EP titled Archaic Flame."


Pre-order here.





Archaic Flame tracklisting:


"Archaic Flame"
"Chaos Sequence"
"Run To You" (Bryan Adams Cover)
"Dying Sun" (live)


"Archaic Flame" video:





Before The Dawn are:


Vocals - Paavo Laapotti
Guitar - Juho Räihä
Bass - Pyry Hanski
Drums - Tuomas Saukkonen


(Photo - Teppo Ristola)

South Carolina's Egyptian-themed death metal titans NILE have completed mixing their new album at a Nashville studio with producer Mark Lewis, who has previously worked with MEGADETH, WHITECHAPEL, DEVILDRIVER and BAD WOLVES, among many others.

Earlier today, NILE shared a short video of founder Karl Sanders (guitar, vocals) and Lewis as they were putting the finishing touches on the band's tenth LP. The clip was accompanied by the following caption: "We are DONE mixing the new NILE album! This album sounds killer - We have put our hearts and souls into this record, and we believe that the amount of time, effort, and detail that went into it shows through the music. \m/"

Last October, NILE announced its new touring lineup. Joining Sanders and longtime drummer George Kollias are Dan Vadim Von (MORBID ANGEL, INCANTATION) on bass/vocals and Zach Jeter (HIDEOUS DIVINITY, OLKOTH) on guitar/vocals.

Last June, Sanders spoke to Headbangers Latinoamérica about the progress of the recording sessions for NILE's tenth studio album. Asked how the studio work is coming along, Karl said: "Very well. George finished all his drums. He did an amazing job. When people hear this, they are not going to believe that it's a real live human doing all this stuff. But it's George. People who have seen him live and in the flesh can believe. So he's done probably the best album of his career with this new NILE record."

In July 2022, Sanders told Guitar World magazine that he and his bandmates had 10 songs written for the follow-up to 2019's "Vile Nilotic Rites". Earlier that same month, NILE announced the departure of bassist/vocalist Brad Parris.

Originally hailing from Greenville, South Carolina, international death metal legends NILE have become one of the most revered names in the worldwide heavy metal scene today, combining extreme traditional and technical death metal styles with their trademarked blend of Ancient Egyptian and Near Eastern soundscapes and historical mysticism.

"Vile Nilotic Rites" was released in November 2019 via Nuclear Blast. The disc was recorded and produced by Sanders at Serpent Headed Studios in Greenville, South Carolina, with the exception of the drums which were recorded at Esoteron Music Studios in Athens, Greece with engineering handled by Jim Touras and George Dovolos. The album was mixed and mastered by Mark Lewis at MRL Studios. For the album artwork, the band returned to artist Michal "Xaay" Loranc who had worked with the band for over 10 years.

In September 2021, NILE announced that it had signed a worldwide contract with Napalm Records.

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FALLING IN REVERSE was joined by SLIPKNOT's Corey Taylor during the former band's March 3 concert at the Bakkt Theater at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, Nevada for a performance of their collaborative track "Drugs". Fan-filmed vide of his appearance can be seen below.

The studio version of FALLING IN REVERSE's "Drugs", featuring Taylor, was originally released in April 2019.

A year ago, Taylor spoke about some of the newer bands that he finds inspiring, where "you can feel them leaning into the passion." He told NME: "TURNSTILE are fucking amazing. SLEEP TOKEN are really starting to do something for me, and BAD OMENS are great. There's a whole new generation of bands that are starting to come up that are carrying the flag for heavy music."

This past January, Corey shared an Instagram video in response to fan concern over his well-being following the cancelation of his previously scheduled North American solo tour.

"I, over the last year, have had a complete and utter breakdown of boundaries, mental health, ego, entitlement, the whole nine yards, culminating in a very, very real, very near relapse that… I kind of don't recognize myself," he said. "So, I wanted to address this and just tell people that I needed time to reset, I needed time to start working on my heart and my mind and get straight… I'm working on self-care right now, getting the help that I need and surrounding myself with my family… It's a long road and I don't know what’s at the end of it, but I look forward to it. I have gratitude for it, and I hope you can show me some patience."

On January 5, Taylor announced that he was pulling out of his North American tour, citing struggles with mental and physical health.

"For the past several months my mental and physical health have been breaking down, and I reached a place that was unhealthy for my family and I," he wrote in a statement. "I know this decision will come as a shock to some and may be regarded as unpopular by others – but after taking a hard look at where I am and where I was going, I need to pull myself back and be home with my family for the time being. Those of you who bought tickets and VIP packages for this upcoming run will get a full refund."

Corey has a four-show run in Asia scheduled for late March and early April as well as a European summer tour from June 3 to July 2.

Corey recently completed European and North American tours in support of his sophomore solo album, "CMF2", which was released in September. Taylor's first album for BMG and the first on his own label imprint, Decibel Cooper Recordings, was produced by Jay Ruston (ANTHRAX, STEEL PANTHER, AMON AMARTH),who also helmed STONE SOUR's 2017 LP "Hydrograd" as well as 2020's "CMFT".

Taylor began tracking the follow-up to 2020's "CMFT" LP in January 2023 at The Hideout Recording Studio in Las Vegas, Nevada with Ruston. Joining Corey in the studio was the rest of his solo band — bassist Eliot Lorango, drummer Dustin Robert, along with guitarists Christian Martucci and Zach Throne.

"CMFT" featured the No. 1 Billboard mainstream rock single "Black Eyes Blue" and "CMFT Must Be Stopped" (feat. Tech N9ne and Kid Bookie). The LP hit No. 6 on Billboard's U.S. Top Rock Albums chart.

JUST ANNOUNCED: Disturbed is bringing their “Take Back Your Life” tour to Las Vegas on Sunday, March 3 with special...

Posted by Bakkt Theater on Monday, October 16, 2023

The DT Archive YouTube Channel has shared fan-filmed video of Dream Theater's March 1993 show at the Limelight in New York City. Check it out below.


DT Archive: "This show was a special occasion for Dream Theater, as they played several unreleased songs, and had a few people producing a concert film. For what it's worth, they also marketed the show with a 'Dreambill,' similar to a Broadway playbill, and they limited the audience to either diehard fans or members of the music industry (I have heard conflicting stories about this).


I made an editing decision not everyone will agree with, to move 'Metropolis' from the beginning to the end of the set. The reason is that there is no proper video footage for Metropolis. Since there are some people on YouTube who have issues with impulsively commenting on videos without reading the video description, I thought 'A Fortune In Lies' would make for a stronger opening to the video, and hopefully prevent a few 'Why am I watching a giant animated GIF' comments."




Setlist:


"A Fortune In Lies
"Under A Glass Moon
"Surrounded
"Ytse Jam
- drum solo -
"Ytse Jam" (reprise)
"(To Live) Forever"
"Take The Time"
"Eve"
"Pull Me Under"
"Another Day"
"Another Hand"
"The Killing Hand"
"A Change Of Seasons"
"Wait For Sleep"
"Learning To Live"
"Metropolis"

Manchester-based thrashcore band, Tortured Demon , performed at the 2023 edition of the Bloodstock Open Air festival, and you can now watch professionally-filmed footage of the band's performance.


Organizers state: "Immerse yourself in the electrifying performance of Tortured Demon at the renowned Bloodstock Open Air Metal Festival 2023, a spectacle that has left an indelible mark on the hearts of metal enthusiasts. Hailing from the vibrant city of Manchester, UK, this thrashcore powerhouse took the Sophie Lancaster Stage by storm on August 12th, showcasing their unparalleled talent and ferocity. From the very first chord, Tortured Demon unleashed a torrent of raw energy, captivating the audience with their intense riffs and a palpably explosive atmosphere that is the hallmark of their performances.


As the band tore through tracks from their latest album, Rise Of The Lifeless, they demonstrated not just their musical prowess but also an infectious zeal that resonated with every attendee. The crowd was treated to a masterclass in thrashcore, with each song weaving a tapestry of sound that was both intricate and relentless. The synergy between the band members was palpable, each one feeding off the energy of the crowd to elevate their performance to new heights.




The atmosphere at the Sophie Lancaster Stage was electric, with fans of all ages coming together to celebrate the raw, unadulterated spirit of metal music. Tortured Demon's performance at Bloodstock 2023 was more than just a concert; it was an experience, a gathering of the metal community to witness the sheer force of music that can stir the soul and awaken the spirit. This was a moment where the thrashcore sensation from Manchester not only delivered an unforgettable performance but also solidified their place in the hearts of metal fans worldwide."

In a new interview with Japanese music critic and radio personality Masa Ito of TVK's "Rock City", JUDAS PRIEST's Rob Halford spoke about the fact that he and his bandmates sound rejuvenated, full of energy and passion on their upcoming album, "Invincible Shield". He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Well, metal keeps you young… I think it's true. I think the metal feelings have such great rewards for your body and for your mind and for your soul and for your spirit. And it keeps you full of energy, keeps you full of enthusiasm and keeps the fighting spirit alive and keeping the metal faith alive.

"I'm a lucky guy," he continued. "I've been singing metal for over 50 years and the voice still is able to do the job that I want to try and make it to do. And, yeah, I worked really hard on this album to give our fans the best. possible vocal performance I could make."

Regarding how the various health challenges which faced the members of PRIEST — Halford with his prostate cancer battle and guitarist Richie Faulkner's acute cardiac aortic dissection which he suffered during the band's September 2021 performance at the Louder Than Life festival — affected the making of "Invincible Shield", Rob said: "When you have difficulties in your life, when you have challenges in your life and you're able to overcome them and you're able to come back stronger than before, something changes inside of you. I think this happened for a lot of people in the pandemic all over the world. We all were feeling the same kind of experiences. It was very difficult not to see friends, not to see family, not to be able to go to metal shows. Music kept us alive. We were all home listening to music, watching the TV and everything, watching the movies, everything. But I think that this was extraordinary for JUDAS PRIEST because this has never happened before for us. Richie's life-changing heart incident has been something that, I know, changed him as a person. And probably the same for me with my cancer. Because both of these things can take your life. Both of these things — cancer can take your life, heart conditions can take your life. But when you're able to still be here because of the great medical teams and incredible people working with you, it makes your perception change. So maybe that's part of the ingredients for this album that never happened before. It's just a lot of emotions and a lot of understanding life a little bit differently now. So, I'm sure that for JUDAS PRIEST as a band, with our metal, this is very special. You can feel the lifting power of life in all of the songs on 'Invincible Shield'."

"Invincible Shield" will arrive on March 8 via Sony Music.

As previously reported, there will be a global album listening party for "Invincible Shield" on Thursday, March 7 at various metal bars in 30 cities around the world.

If you live near Daytona Beach, you will be able to experience a special JUDAS PRIEST pop-up shop on Saturday, March 9 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Atlantic Sounds, which will be operating out of a custom JUDAS PRIEST military combat truck — "an invincible shield on wheels" — playing the album to the more than 500,000 attendees at Daytona Bike Week. Harley-Davidson will be leading a 100-biker brigade from Orlando to Daytona at 9 a.m. ET.

In a recent interview with Metal Hammer magazine, Rob stated about "Invincible Shield": "When [PRIEST guitarists] Glenn [Tipton] and RichiePRIEST have always done, as a three-piece — two guitar players and a singer — that's the metal magic. All of that energy, all of that youthful exuberance was still there in those initial writing sessions."

Regarding the PRIEST songwriting process, Halford told Kerrang! magazine: "It's not easy — it absolutely isn't easy. There's always been a load of ideas, and I'm always grabbing my recorder and catching something they’re noodling around with. But to actually grab on to something that's going to have value, and really going to do the business, it's like digging for gold."

He added: "You're testing yourself more than anything else. Can we still do it? You don't really know anything about that side of who you are until you get into writing mode. Sometimes you just know when you've got something really special and of substance, and that's when you go and record. We're not making records because the label are asking for one more album on the contract. Nothing to do with that — it's because of this real, genuine love and desire for making more metal.”

Bassist Ian Hill is the sole remaining original member of PRIEST, which formed in 1969. Halford joined the group in 1973 and Tipton signed on in 1974. Rob left PRIEST in the early 1990s to form his own band, then came back to PRIEST in 2003. Original guitarist K.K. Downing parted ways with the band in 2011, and was replaced by Faulkner.