Blood Choke is the name of a new Danish-Swedish thrash band that has been formed by members from well-known names on the aggressive metal scene, such as Artillery, Sorcerer, Destroyer 666, Nominion, Dreadful Fate and Denied.


The band has spent the dark months of winter in the rehearsal room writing 10 thrashing songs that they look forward to recording for the upcoming debut album. "Kill The Tyrant" is one of those songs, and it is a good example of the style and heaviness the band employ in their music. Watch the video for the song from the band's rehearsal space, below:







Guitarist Kræn Meier states that Blood Choke is a band and not a side project, and that everyone is looking forward to being able to present the debut album when it comes out.


Blood Choke are:


Perra Karlsson; drums (Dreadful Fate, Nominon, Perracide, ex-Destroyer 666)
Søren Adamsen; vocals (Denied, ex-Artillery)
Justin Biggs; bass (Sorcerer, Kvaen)
Kræn Meier: guitar (Nominon, Sacrificial, Hells Domain, ex-Artillery)

Hailing from Adelaide, South Australia, Storm The Crown (STC) has erupted onto stages and streaming platforms worldwide with their debut EP, Valleys.


Wearing their collective hearts on their sleeves, the band features members from respected and influential hardcore and metal acts such as Paradise Burning, Closed Casket, Asphalt Kisses, Before Clear Skies, Within In My Hands, In The Name Of Deceit, and Settle For Nothing. STC proudly embraces the revival of the "Adelaide Sound", drawing inspiration from legendary acts like I Killed The Prom Queen, Day Of Contempt, Shot Point Blank, and Double Dragon.


Storm The Crown recently wrapped up filming their debut music video for the track "Neon," directed by the award-winning cinematographer Brad Gilbertson. This achievement comes on the heels of their acclaimed performances at events like the Beer And BBQ fest and Heavy SA, showcasing their rising prominence in the metal scene.




Storm The Crown stands out with their distinctive classic metalcore sound, delving into themes such as addiction, overcoming depression, and navigating family illness - subjects that resonate profoundly in the year 2024. Currently in the creative throes of their follow-up to Valleys.

In a new interview with Pedro Alonso Diez of Spain's Metal Journal, JUDAS PRIEST drummer Scott Travis was asked if the door is "completely closed" on guitarist K.K. Downing's possible return to the band. Scott responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Well, I don't think anyone can ever say never or something's closed forever, but K.K. has his own band now [KK'S PRIEST], doesn't he? So I wonder how his bandmembers would feel to hear these rumors all the time, because I'm sure they're very happy to be part of his band and be out there playing. So, we'll see. I don't know."

Asked if he follows K.K.'s activities with KK'S PRIEST and whether he has heard any of the band's music, Scott said: "I've just seen the stuff that he posts on social media. I've not listened to the whole record start to finish, but I follow the drummer on his social media and I think he follows me, so I respect what he's doing.

"I think it's great that they're out there, period, by the way," Travis continued. "I think it's great that K.K. has resurfaced and he wasn't just trying to grab something from the past that he created, because he left [JUDAS PRIEST], so he must have left the band for a reason. And he was out of the band for a long time. In other words, when JUDAS PRIEST made the decision to go from basically a five-piece band to a four-piece [in January 2022], we quickly realized it was a mistake and we changed it, and K.K. didn't do that. He left the band and was gone for years and years, and then decided he ought to be back or something, but that was just his opinion. So, time has moved on, but I'm glad that he finally decided to get back in the music business and create new music. So that's really cool."

On the subject of whether JUDAS PRIEST was bothered by the fact that K.K. decided to call his band KK'S PRIEST, Scott said: "No, not at all. I mean, he has a right to the name and to play the songs that he co-wrote. So, no."

PRIEST was reunited with Downing and drummer Les Binks for a performance at the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame induction ceremony in November 2022 at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

The JUDAS PRIEST members who got inducted include current members Rob Halford (vocals),Ian Hill (bass),Glenn Tipton (guitar) and Travis, along with former members Downing, Binks and late drummer Dave Holland.

Halford, Hill, Tipton and Travis were joined by Binks, Downing and current guitarist Richie Faulkner for a three-song medley consisting of "You've Got Another Thing Comin'", "Breaking The Law" and "Living After Midnight".

Back in June 2021, Downing told Sakis Fragos of Rock Hard Greece that PRIEST and the band's management weren't happy with the fact that he used the KK'S PRIEST name for his new group.

"Their lawyers sent a letter to my record company making threats of legal action if I went forward with KK'S PRIEST," K.K. revealed. "But for the moment, nothing happened. I think they made the threat but decided not to follow through with the threat. But they made the threat to try to stop me making the band."

Downing left PRIEST in 2011 amid claims of band conflict, shoddy management and declining quality of performance. He was replaced by Faulkner, nearly three decades his junior.

In 2019, Downing said that he reached out to JUDAS PRIEST about taking part in the band's 50th-anniversary tour but that their response was that they were not interested in including him in the celebrations.

In 2018, Downing revealed that he sent two resignation letters to his bandmates when he decided to quit JUDAS PRIEST. The first was described as "a graceful exit note, implying a smooth retirement from music," while the second was "angrier, laying out all of his frustrations with specific parties."

Downing later said that he believed the second letter was "a key reason" he wasn't invited to rejoin PRIEST after Glenn Tipton's decision to retire from touring.

KK'S PRIEST features former JUDAS PRIEST members Downing and Tim "Ripper" Owens (vocals),alongside guitarist A.J. Mills (HOSTILE),bassist Tony Newton (VOODOO SIX) and drummer Sean Elg (DEATHRIDERS, CAGE).

KK'S PRIEST will embark on its first-ever U.S. headlining tour next week. The trek will kick off on March 7 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and will feature support from L.A. GUNS and BURNING WITCHES. The tour will be the first of at least a two-leg USA run of shows, planned to continue later in 2024.

KK'S PRIEST's sophomore album, "The Sinner Rides Again", came out in September 2023 via the Austrian label Napalm Records.

KK'S PRIEST after JUDAS PRIEST turned down his offer to rejoin the band for their 50th-anniversary tour. It followed a couple of celebrated stage appearances, first with former MANOWAR guitarist Ross The Boss in the summer of 2019, then with a one-off lineup that included former MEGADETH bassist David Ellefson and Binks later that year.

KK'S PRIEST released its debut album, "Sermons Of The Sinner", in October 2021 via Explorer1 Music Group/EX1 Records.

Downing spent four months writing and recording "Sermons Of The Sinner" and, along with new ideas, he even resurrected a few archived riffs from the 1980s.

Scott Travis photo credit: James Hodges / K.K. Downing photo credit: Mind Art Visual

BLACK SABBATH has joined Spotify's "Billions Club" with the band's classic song "Paranoid".

Billions Club is a playlist first launched in 2020 which includes all of the songs on Spotify that have surpassed one billion streams on the platform. After the achievement, Spotify gifts artists the Billions Club plaque.

"Paranoid" joins other tracks — including METALLICA's "Nothing Else Matters", AEROSMITH's "Dream On", SURVIVOR's "Eye Of The Tiger", ABBA's "Dancing Queen", PAPA ROACH's "Last Resort", GUNS N' ROSES' "Paradise City", EVANESCENCE's "Bring Me To Life" and Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" — to reach the achievement. The milestone has reportedly been achieved by nearly 500 songs so far.

During a November 2023 appearance on BBC Radio 4's "Loose Ends" program, BLACK SABBATH guitarist Tony Iommi was asked if he remembered writing the guitar riff to "Paranoid". He responded: "I can remember that one for sure. We were in the studio doing 'Paranoid' album, and the producer said… The other guys went out for something to eat, and I sat in the studio, and he said, 'We need another song. We haven't got enough songs on the album. Can you put one together?' I went, 'Well, no.' We were only in there for a couple of days, you see. And I said, 'Well, I don't know. I've never written a three-minute song.' SABBATH's always [written songs that were] five minutes or six minutes [long]. So I came up with this idea and waited till the others came back from the pub. And then I played them the idea. And, basically, we'd done it there and then."

Three years ago, Iommi told Planet Rock that "Paranoid" was "done as a filler. We had never done a three-minute song before … and it's amazing what it did."

Widely regarded as one of the greatest heavy metal songs of all time, "Paranoid" reached No. 4 on the U.K. singles chart and number 61 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"The only thing in them days for us with 'Paranoid' was it attracted a different audience to what we were used to," Iommi told Planet Rock. "We saw a lot of screaming girls and things, which we weren't used to at the gigs. And we were doing [the U.K. TV show] 'Top Of The Pops' and stuff like that. It was attracting a different audience to what we were expecting, and people would come in to hear the band play, who didn't know us. They only heard 'Paranoid' on TV and thought, 'Well, let's go and see them.' And of course, they ended hearing 'Iron Man' and all of the rest and thought, 'Oh my God. What's all of this?'"

In a 2004 interview with Guitar World magazine, BLACK SABBATH bassist Geezer Butler said that the "Paranoid" album was recorded "in about two or three days, live in the studio. The song 'Paranoid' was written as an afterthought. We basically needed a three-minute filler for the album, and Tony came up with the riff. I quickly did the lyrics, and Ozzy [Osbourne] was reading them as he was singing.

In the liner notes to SABBATH's "Reunion" album, Butler said that the music to the "Paranoid" title track was written "in five minutes, then I sat down and wrote the lyrics as quickly as I could. It was all done in about two hours."

Regarding the lyrical inspiration for "Paranoid", Butler said: "['Paranoid' is] about depression, because I didn't really know the difference between depression and paranoia. It's a drug thing; when you're smoking a joint, you get totally paranoid about people. You can't relate to people. There's that crossover between the paranoia you get when you're smoking dope and the depression afterwards."

In February 2017, SABBATH finished "The End" tour in Birmingham, closing out the quartet's groundbreaking 49-year career.

"The End" was SABBATH's last tour because Iommi — who was diagnosed with lymphoma in late 2011 — can no longer travel for extended amounts of time.

Iommi revealed his cancer diagnosis in early 2012, shortly after SABBATH announced a reunion tour and album. He underwent treatment throughout the recording of the disc, titled "13", and the subsequent tour to promote it.

The BLACK SABBATH guitarist successfully underwent an operation in January 2017 to remove a noncancerous lump from his throat.

"13" was the first album in 35 years to feature Iommi, Osbourne and Butler all playing together.

Bill Ward was on board for the SABBATH reunion when it was first announced 11 years ago, but backed out soon after. The drummer later claimed that he sat out the recording and touring sessions because of unfair contractual terms, although the members of SABBATH have hinted in other interviews that he wasn't physically up to the task.

All four original members of SABBATH were present when the band announced its final reunion in late 2011. But Ward split from the group in 2012, citing an "unsignable" contract, and Osbourne, Iommi and Butler carried on with their Rick Rubin–produced "13" LP and extensive international touring without him.
“Paranoid” has joined the Billion Plays Club on @Spotify. Crank it up now! https://t.co/97tj5wxRL5#paranoid#spotifypic.twitter.com/EB7eXXhNgX

— BlackSabbath (@BlackSabbath) March 4, 2024

The Andrew Shaner YouTube channel has uploaded video of KK'S PRIEST's entire March 3 performance aboard the 2024 Monsters Of Rock cruise. Check it out below.

The band's setlist was as follows, according to Setlist.fm:

01. Hellfire Thunderbolt
02. One More Shot At Glory
03. The Ripper (JUDAS PRIEST song)
04. Reap The Whirlwind
05. Night Crawler (JUDAS PRIEST song)
06. Burn In Hell (JUDAS PRIEST song)
07. Hell Patrol (JUDAS PRIEST song)
08. Brothers Of The Road
09. The Green Manalishi (With The Two Prong Crown) (FLEETWOOD MAC cover)
11. Victim Of Changes (JUDAS PRIEST song)
11. Raise Your Fists

KK'S PRIEST features former JUDAS PRIEST members K.K. Downing (guitar) and Tim "Ripper" Owens (vocals),alongside guitarist A.J. Mills (HOSTILE),bassist Tony Newton (VOODOO SIX) and drummer Sean Elg (DEATHRIDERS, CAGE).

KK'S PRIEST will embark on its first-ever U.S. headlining tour later this week. The trek will kick off on March 7 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and will feature support from L.A. GUNS and BURNING WITCHES. The tour will be the first of at least a two-leg USA run of shows, planned to continue later in 2024.

KK'S PRIEST made its live debut on July 6, 2023 at Downing's KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom.

KK'S PRIEST kicked off a five-date "Priests, Killers & Witches" U.K. tour on October 7, 2023 at O2 Institute in Birmingham.

KK'S PRIEST's sophomore album, "The Sinner Rides Again", came out in September 2023 via the Austrian label Napalm Records.

K.K. formed KK'S PRIEST after JUDAS PRIEST turned down his offer to rejoin the band for their 50th-anniversary tour. It followed a couple of celebrated stage appearances, first with former MANOWAR guitarist Ross The Boss in the summer of 2019, then with a one-off lineup that included former MEGADETH bassist David Ellefson and former PRIEST drummer Les Binks later that year.

KK'S PRIEST released its debut album, "Sermons Of The Sinner", in October 2021 via Explorer1 Music Group/EX1 Records.

Downing spent four months writing and recording "Sermons Of The Sinner" and, along with new ideas, he even resurrected a few archived riffs from the 1980s.

Downing was reunited with JUDAS PRIEST for a performance at the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame induction ceremony in November 2022 at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

PRIEST received the Musical Excellence Award at the event, which honored Eminem, Dolly Parton, DURAN DURAN, Lionel Richie, Pat Benatar, EURYTHMICS and Carly Simon in the Performers category.

Downing left PRIEST in 2011 amid claims of band conflict, shoddy management and declining quality of performance. He was replaced by Richie Faulkner, nearly three decades his junior.

In 2019, Downing said that he reached out to JUDAS PRIEST about taking part in the band's 50th-anniversary tour but that their response was that they were not interested in including him in the celebrations.

In 2018, Downing revealed that he sent two resignation letters to his bandmates when he decided to quit JUDAS PRIEST. The first was described as "a graceful exit note, implying a smooth retirement from music," while the second was "angrier, laying out all of his frustrations with specific parties."

Downing later said that he believed the second letter was "a key reason" he wasn't invited to rejoin PRIEST after Glenn Tipton's decision to retire from touring.

Owens joined PRIEST in 1996 and recorded two studio albums with the band — 1997's "Jugulator" and 2001's "Demolition" — before PRIEST reunited with Rob Halford in 2003.

Legendary German/American heavy metal titans ACCEPT played "Humanoid", the title track of their upcoming album, live for the first time on Sunday, March 3 aboard this year's Monsters Of Rock cruise. Fan-filmed video of the performance can be seen below.

The hard-hitting first single from "Humanoid" features razor-sharp riffs in true ACCEPT style and comments on our reliance on technology. The dystopian atmosphere of the accompanying official music video complements the track perfectly, depicting a stark contrast between a video wall and the band performing live in front of it.

Regarding the lyrical inspiration for the "Humanoid" title track, ACCEPT guitarist and leader Wolf Hoffmann said: "Well, that is actually one of the reasons why we chose it as a title track also, because it seems to be very current. It fits into the times that we live in. And AI is something that everybody talks about right now and it's very much on everybody's mind, because, especially for us as artists, it's a concern because we're starting to think if now creative… I mean, robots used to be just mechanical things that made cars and — I don't know — mechanical jobs, but now they're doing creative jobs. So as a creative person, as a musician, obviously, it's concerning because you ask yourself, are we still going to be needed 20, 30 years from now or two years from now? Because it's advancing at such a pace and with such quality that… Yeah, that is definitely a concern. And I don't have the answers, but it's definitely something that went through our mind when we wrote that song and we picked it as a title track."

When the official "Humanoid" music video was first released late last month, Wolf said: "The song plays with the omnipresent topic of artificial intelligence (AI). In a strange way, we have entered exciting times now… This digital revolution has a huge impact, probably bigger than anything humankind has ever gone through. The Industrial Revolution was huge, but this might be even bigger, and we're just at the beginning of it. However, I'm also a little afraid that humanity gets lost and pushed aside in all this stuff. The song is pretty impactful and provoking!"

Due on April 26, 2024 via Napalm Records, "Humanoid" was once again produced, recorded, mixed and mastered by critically acclaimed heavy metal producer Andy Sneap.

Fans can immerse themselves in the upcoming album on a newly launched interactive web site, where they can reprogram the robot that is featured on the album cover, and discover different parts of the album in the process. Pre-save "Humanoid" now to gain access to the web site here.

Together with the album announcement, ACCEPT has also revealed a massive European headline tour with more than 20 shows across the continent for autumn 2024. This summer, ACCEPT will also return to some of the world’s most important rock and metal festivals, like Wacken Open Air, Hellfest and more, following their South American spring tour.

Hoffmann commented: "I am extremely pleased with 'Humanoid'. The album has great energy throughout! Working with the best metal producer Andy Sneap was once again a lot of fun! We are a great team. We all love the new album and look forward to playing it live! Hope our fans will like it as much as we do.”

ACCEPT is:

Wolf Hoffmann - guitar
Mark Tornillo - vocals
Uwe Lulis - guitar
Martin Motnik - bass
Christopher Williams - drums

This past January, it was announced that ACCEPT will perform at all European festivals in 2024 and the South American tour in May with Joel Hoekstra.

Hoekstra will be standing in for Phil Shouse, who will remain with the band as their permanent live guitarist for all other gigs.

New York-based Joel Hoekstra is best known to fans as a current member of the legendary band WHITESNAKE and is part of TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA. He has also played with Cher, NIGHT RANGER and FOREIGNER, to name just a few of his numerous collaborations.

Hoffmann commented: "It is a great honor for us to be on stage with Joel Hoekstra. Joel is an exceptional guitarist and I have huge respect for him. The whole band is really looking forward to playing with this string magician."

Hoekstra added: "I'm super honored and excited to riff out and rock out with Wolf and the guys! I'm really looking forward to meeting all the ACCEPT fans in South America and Europe! Let's rock!!"

Last June, Wolf said in an interview with Cassius Morris about the progress of the recording sessions for the follow-up to 2021's "Too Mean To Die" album: "Well, we have this place in Nashville that we have made the last five albums in. And we basically do drums at a place — it's not quite sure where we're gonna do it this time. And then guitars are usually happening here in Nashville and mixing happens in England. Nowadays, with technology, we don't really need to be together in the same place for four weeks at a time; we do it here and there and everywhere. But it's still important to know that we're doing it kind of together; we're not just sharing files over the Internet. 'Cause that has never worked for us. So, in other words, Andy has to be in the room, if possible, and then whoever gets to record their tracks, and then a bunch of others are usually around. So it's a group thing, for sure, but it's not [like] everybody's there the whole, all the time together."

In the fall of 2022, ACCEPT completed a North American tour with support from NARCOTIC WASTELAND. The band played a career-spanning set of new and classic tracks, including mega-hits "Balls To The Wall", "Princess Of The Dawn", "Fast As A Shark" and many more.

In February 2022, it was announced that ACCEPT had inked a worldwide deal with Napalm Records.

"Too Mean To Die" came out in January 2021 via Nuclear Blast. The LP was the group's first without bassist Peter Baltes, who exited ACCEPT in November 2018. He has since been replaced by Martin Motnik. ACCEPT's lineup has also been expanded with the addition of a third guitarist, the aforementioned Philip Shouse, who originally filled in for Uwe Lulis during 2019's "Symphonic Terror" tour, before being asked to join the band permanently.

"Too Mean To Die" was recorded in Nashville with Sneap (JUDAS PRIEST, MEGADETH),who has been responsible for the studio sound of ACCEPT since 2010.

Mark Tornillo joined ACCEPT in 2009 as the replacement for the band's original lead singer, Udo Dirkscheider. He can be heard on ACCEPT's last five studio albums, "Blood Of The Nations" (2010),"Stalingrad" (2012),"Blind Rage" (2014),"The Rise Of Chaos" (2017) and "Too Mean To Die".

French black metallers, Benighted, will release their new album, Ekbom, on April 12 via Season Of Mist. Listen to the second single, "Nothing Left To Fear", featuring vocalist Oli Peters from Archspire, below:





The band states about Ekbom: “Welcome our new schizophrenic baby Ekbom and take a trip into the depths of psychosis with hallucinations of insects and worms… A beautiful story born from the mind of our vocalist Julien inspired by his work as a nurse in psychiatry. Recorded at the famous Kohlekeller Studios in Germany, this album bleeds with darkness and brutality, destroys every limit of what we have done before…”




Pre-order at the Season Of Mist webshop.





Tracklisting:


“Prodrome”
“Scars”
“Morgue”
“Le Vice des Entrailles”
“Nothing Left To Fear”
“Ekborn”
“Metastasis”
“A Reason For Treason”
“Fame Of The Grotesque”
“Scapegoat”
“Flesh Against Flesh”
“Mother Earth, Mother Whore”


“Scars” video:





Lineup:
Julien Truchan - Vocals
Emmanuel Dalle - Guitars
Pierre Arnoux - Bass
Kevin Paradis - Drums


(Photo - Anthony Dubois)

Three decades ago, in the rebellious spirit of 1988/89, Aftermath forged their underground thrash classic, Eyes Of Tomorrow. Though the musical brilliance had already taken shape, the album's arrival in stores faced an unexpected delay, pushing its release to March 1994. This unique timeline, resulting from a label bankruptcy during recording sessions, only adds to the mystique of this iconic record.


The album, which spearheaded a new era in thrash metal when initially composed, unfortunately found its release during one of metal's lowest points. Yet, true to the unpredictable nature of Aftermath, their journey has never been straightforward or conventional.


Multiple reissues of the album followed its initial release over the years including: 1995 on Thermometer Sound Surface (USA), 1998 on Black Lotus Records (Greece), 2010 on Area Death Productions (China), and 2015 on Shadow Kingdom (USA).







Founding members Kyriakos “Charlie” Tsiolis (vocals) and Steve Sacco (lead guitar) reflected on the album. “We wrote the songs on Eyes Of Tomorrow between 1988 and ’89 when we were a five piece, but the year before as a four piece, we released a demo called Killing the Future that was 5 songs of pure crossover speed," said Tsiolis.


He continued, “Eyes Of Tomorrow had none of the crossover elements because we set out to write a progressive/technical thrash album.The genre was in its infancy. We wanted to be the Pink Floyd of Thrash. It felt natural but looking at it now all these years later, we were out of our minds.”


“We totally changed everything that made us Aftermath a year earlier and despite the challenges we had to release it we wouldn't have it any other way.”


Sacco adds, "Thirty years ago we wanted more than to be a thrash band. We wanted to bend and stretch boundaries. We weren't going to settle for anything less. Either it was the best it could be or forget it. Our drive led us to what we thought did just that.”


When reflecting on the album now, Sacco states, “I listen back now and must say it still holds up. Give it a listen and let it take you back to that fresh new sound and know that the guys behind those crazy riffs with heavy creative vocals and lyrics had a blast creating not just for themselves but for you the fans of this music. 30 years has nothing on us but appreciation to keep making music we love.”


Ray Schmidt, the band's drummer adds, "Still love this album as much as when we finished it 30 years ago. Great times.”


"The “Eyes” album is composed of dynamic movements, texture, spans the spectrum of tempos, and the gents played with intricate precision. My workload was full, as I listened intently to learn the parts. When we perform songs from the “Eyes” record in present day, I make every effort to do the songs justice and not fuck it up," says George Lagis, the band's current bass player.


Eyes Of Tomorrow has stood the test of time, garnering critical acclaim and continuously attracting new enthusiasts of technical thrash. Each passing year adds another layer to the album's legend, with its intricate compositions and groundbreaking style still resonating with fans worldwide.


Join us in commemorating the 30th anniversary of this gem that defied the odds and left an indelible mark on the thrash metal landscape!


he band will be giving away some of the original pressings of the CD that are super rare. Drop a comment on the post here to be eligible.





Original Cover


 


Chicago based Aftermath, fronted by Kyriakos "Charlie" Tsiolis, formed in October 1985 when Charlie and his schoolmate Steve Sacco (Guitar) got together. This early incarnation with Adam (Bass) and Ray Schmidt (Drums) released their first demo in 1986 featuring “Sentenced to Death”, “Revenge”, “Shotgun” and “The Aftermath”.


In 1987, they unleashed their second demo entitled Killing the Future featuring the tracks “When Will You Die”, “Going No Place”, “Chaos”, “Meltdown” and “War for Freedom”. The band pursued a mind-blowing speed and technical brand of thrash that soon set them apart from the pack and in the process made them a pioneering crossover thrash band.


The tracks "War for Freedom" & "When Will You Die" were both featured on the British Metal Forces magazine_compilation LP Demolition: Scream Your Brains Out in 1988. Their appearance on the Metal Forces compilation further expanded the band's international appeal.


By 1988, the band's musical direction was changing, and Adam's raw and simple bass lines would soon be replaced with complex and technical bass parts handled at first by John Lovette. Ironically, John never played bass on any Aftermath recording and was not even a bass player. He wanted to join the band so badly, however, that he came to the audition with a friend's bass he had just started to play. The speed and complex playing he displayed were like nothing the members had ever seen before on bass. He landed the gig that day. When the band decided it was time to add a second guitarist, Lovette told his bandmates of his desire to switch to guitar and for the first time he came clean he was a guitar player pretending to be a bass player all along. His bass playing was surpassed by his guitar skills and the band found its second guitar player, but unfortunately the search for a bass player was forced to resume. Luckily, the search (for the time being, anyway) ended with Danny Vega. His warm and precise playing was the perfect complement to the guitar playing of Lovette and Sacco and worked amazingly well with Schmidt's powerful drumming. With Lovette handling most of the song writing duties, Aftermath was about to make an unbelievable musical change.


By 1989, that change brought on by Lovette's writing and the band's musical tastes and stylings had slowed and matured as evidenced by the release of the underground classic demo Words That Echo Fear. Danny Vega was replaced on bass by Chris Waldron. The band went onto to become a trailblazing progressive/technical thrash band in the years that followed.


In 1990, based on the huge international success of the Words that Echo Fear demo, the metal label RoadRacer Records (a subsidiary of Roadrunner Records) approached the band for a demo deal, which resulted in a live four track demo featuring the songs “Eyes Of Tomorrow”, “Afraid Of Time”, “The Act Of Unspoken Wisdom” and “Reflecting Pictures". Negotiations eventually broke down and Aftermath signed to New York's Big Chief Records. The label's collapse halfway through the recording sessions led to a long delay in finishing the record. While the band struggled to pay the studio bill, the album the band started to record in 1990 would not see the light of day for four years. The experience left the band reeling and forced them to issue the album under their own imprint with the help of their manager through Zoid Recordings in 1994. Four long years had passed since the initial recordings for the record Eyes Of Tomorrow and the scene had dramatically changed.


The album was subsequently re-released on Thermometer Sound Surface / Zoid and released yet again four years (1998) later on Black Lotus Records in a re-mastered version.


Quite famously, Aftermath, in a notable court case Tsiolis v. Interscope. Records. Inc., 946 F.Supp. 1344, 1349 (N.D.III. 1996) sued high-profile millionaire rapper Dr. Dre over the ownership of the Aftermath name. The Rapper tried to buy the name for $50,000, which the band rejected. The band sued him. As part of the settlement, Interscope Records signed the band. To the label's surprise, the band delivered a record under the moniker Mother God Moviestar. Its eponymous Electro-Metal debut was released in March 1998. The case has been studied in law schools around the US related to the issue of trademark dilution.


Aftermath has continued to receive critical acclaim as one of the major influences in the genre. The band was featured on pages 9 and 10 of Gary Sharpe-Young's A - Z of Thrash Metal, available on Cherry Red Books. Aftermath is also given an entire feature section in Alexandros Anesiadis’ 2019 book Crossover the Edge: Where Hardcore, Punk, and Metal Collide.


Twenty-five years after its formation, Aftermath's music made its return in 2011 with the release of the Box Set 25 Years Of Chaos on Area Death Productions and the vinyl When Will You Die on F.O.A.D. The reemergence of one of the most original thrash bands ever continued in 2014 with their decision to reunite for several concerts in 2015.


Coming off their first show in 20 years at Ragnarokkr Metal Apocalypse in their hometown of Chicago, the band ripped the stage apart at Headbanger’s Open Air in Hamburg, Germany that summer. In the Fall of 2015, the reunion continued with the reissue of Eyes Of Tomorrow. With an expanded booklet and remastered by Paul Logus (Pantera, Steel Panther), Shadow Kingdom Records released the band's debut along with bonus material. Following this release was the Killing the Future reissue on Divebomb Records. Once again Paul Logus remastered the tracks from their original source and created a wall of sound in the process. Killing the Future, along with the expanded booklet and bonus tracks from the band's 1986 first demo completed the celebration of the band's 30th anniversary.


In 2017, the band started writing the material for their new album. There is Something Wrong is an 11-song opus recorded by Chuck Macak, mastered by Ted Jensen and released through Ingrooves by Zoid Entertainment and The Label Group in 2019. A concept record in the truest sense of the word, the album features a mix of old-school crossover thrash and technical/progressive metal and is a commentary on what is wrong with the world today. A calling out of the masses to wake up and know the real enemy. The music is urgent, and the lyrics challenge the listener to seek the truth. Aftermath went back to its early days and revived its crossover thrash stylings on several songs, but those are only samples of what the listeners have in store for them once they put on their headphones and listen to There is Something Wrong in its entirety.


In 2020, Aftermath released a re-imagined version of the John Lennon classic, "Give Peace a Chance". The song was remixed and remastered for the new album and included on the record because of the message.


“John Lennon’s urgent call for peace in 'Give Peace a Chance' is more important today than ever, and our call for peace with this cover is the perfect message to follow up our previous album. We released a dark concept album with a bleak message and felt it was important to follow that up with something positive. The visuals in the video are as important as the lyrics in a way. We live in a visual world today and this video needed to get out the message of HOPE. Having a young girl be the focus of the video was our way of getting that across. Seeing only positive acts when she puts on Lennon’s famous glasses was the perfect visual metaphor. Lennon’s message is transmitted not only through his lyrics but also through the perspective created by his unique lenses” says the band.


The video was directed by critically acclaimed video director Steven Nathan in New York City.


Aftermath unleashed their highly awaited masterpiece, No Time to Waste, through Zoid Entertainment/TLG/INgrooves on March 17, 2023. This release stands as the triumphant conclusion to a powerful trilogy, representing a notable departure from the somber tones of its predecessor.


In an exclusive statement, Kyriakos "Charlie" Tsiolis shared, "We take immense pride in this album, a culmination of a trilogy that commenced with our debut. Crafted during a challenging era in contemporary history, 'No Time to Waste' emerges as an anthem of hope. In contrast to our previous dark conceptual endeavor, we've refined this record. The ten tracks within are both weighty and charged, delivering a potent metal experience coupled with a profound message - that collectively, we can overcome, but time is of the essence."


Aftermath is:


Kyriakos "Charlie" Tsiolis - Vocals
Steve Sacco - Guitar
Ray Schmidt - Drums
George Lagis - Bass

Brit Turner, drummer for the acclaimed American rock band BLACKBERRY SMOKE, has died at the age of 57.

Turner had been battling glioblastoma — a fast-growing and aggressive brain tumor — and underwent surgery in November 2022.

Brit's death was announced in a social media post from the band.

The statement reads: "It is with the deepest sorrow that we inform everyone that our brother Brit Turner has moved on from this life.

"If you had the privilege of knowing Brit on any level, you know he was the most caring, empathetic, driven and endearing person one could ever hope to meet. Brit was BLACKBERRY SMOKE's True North, the compass that instituted the ideology that will continue to guide this band.

"Brit has battled glioblastoma since his diagnosis in the fall of 2022 and fought every day.

"We ask for prayers for his family and band brothers. More information on arrangements will be forthcoming.

"Thank you to everyone who has supported and been there for Brit and his family through this fight."

Last month, BLACKBERRY SMOKE's new album, "Be Right Here", debuted at No. 1 on the Current Country Albums chart, Americana/Folk Albums chart and Current Rock Albums chart as well as No. 4 on the Best-Selling Current Albums chart. The LP was helmed by Grammy Award-winning producer Dave Cobb (Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell) and was released to critical acclaim via 3 Legged Records/Thirty Tigers. It was recorded at Nashville's historic RCA Studio A and Cobb's Georgia Mae in Savannah.

Throughout the band's prolific career, BLACKBERRY SMOKE has released seven studio albums. including 2021's "You Hear Georgia", which celebrated BLACKBERRY SMOKE's 20th anniversary as a group.

Since forming in 2001, BLACKBERRY SMOKE has continued to tour relentlessly, building a strong and loyal community of fans. In addition to their work as musicians, the band is deeply committed to charitable work and formed the Lana Turner Foundation, a non-profit supporting several national foundations committed to curing children's cancer. With these efforts, the band has raised over $1,000,000 to date benefitting children's cancer research.

It is with the deepest sorrow that we inform everyone that our brother Brit Turner has moved on from this life. If you...

Posted by Blackberry Smoke on Sunday, March 3, 2024

Supreme Unbeing emerges as a five-member leviathan of metal, with the enigmatic Zac Red at the helm, weaving tales that serve humanity, flanked by his menacing quartet: D.Vine, D.Sciple, Unknown & Al Mytee. Together, they're set to cast a spectral spell over Earth’s denizens, armed with riffs that twist the mind and lyrics that whisper to the soul.


With their albums Enter Reality & Enduring Physicality, they've forged a global legion of listeners, eclipsing 10 million streams. Their sonic saga has been lauded by titans of the rock press, and seized the spotlight on Spotify's editorial playlists, heralding a new era of metal mastery.


In a groundbreaking fusion of music & space exploration, the band is set to captivate the world with their latest venture - the 'Spaceman Challenge'. Inspired by their electrifying cover of the iconic single "Spaceman" released today (originally by Babylon Zoo), the band is igniting a global movement, bridging the gap between rock music & the final frontier – space.




Listen to "Spaceman" here, and watch a lyric video below.





The 'Spaceman Challenge' is more than a musical feat; it's a call to dreamers, adventurers, and music enthusiasts worldwide. The band's cover of "Spaceman" is not just a tribute to the 90s rock era, but a powerful anthem infused with modern metal influences, promising to energize and inspire a new generation of listeners.


With the challenge, Supreme Unbeing is not only aiming for the stars musically but literally. The band has boldly reached out to space entrepreneurs Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Sir Richard Branson as well as to several national space agencies around the globe, urging them to join this revolutionary campaign. The trio, and the space agencies, are invited to make a pledge, but only if they dare, promising the band a trip aboard their space tourism crafts once the crafts are fit for space tourism travel and when the song reaches the astronomical milestone of 1 billion streams. Will any of our prominent space entrepreneurs, or national space agencies, take up the band on the dare?


"As we ignite the 'Spaceman Challenge,' it's impossible to ignore the cosmic ballet playing out above us. This new space race, orchestrated by giants like Musk, Bezos, and Branson, isn't just a leap towards the stars; it feels like a calculated escape, a secretive gambit with stakes higher than we can fathom. Are we spectators in an intergalactic narrative scripted by unseen hands, a narrative rife with undisclosed agendas and covert pacts made in the shadow of the moon? In this cosmic game of chess, it's paramount to discern the pawns from the kings, for in the vacuum of space, whispers don't echo—they resonate," says Zac Red.


But the journey doesn't end there. The 'Spaceman Challenge' extends its embrace to the public with an extraordinary pledge from the band. By participating in the challenge on www.spacemanchallenge.com, fans aren't just streaming a song; they're securing their entry into an unprecedented contest. Supreme Unbeing commits to transforming these streams into a tangible odyssey. With the royalties generated from 1 billion streams, the band vows to finance a ticket for one fortunate winner, purchasing their seat on the spacecraft out of their own pocket. This isn't just a chance to win a prize; it's an opportunity to be part of a historic moment, a life-altering journey to space financed by the harmonies of rock and the support of fans worldwide. As the song's streams ascend to stellar heights, so does the dream of space travel, now within reach of one lucky individual.


As the 'Spaceman Challenge' takes off, Supreme Unbeing invites listeners, dreamers, and media partners to join this historic campaign. By featuring 'Spaceman' on playlists, sharing the challenge, and covering this cosmic journey in the press, together, we can turn a musical masterpiece into a milestone for human achievement.


For a music experience that transcends boundaries and for a chance to be part of space history, join the 'Spaceman Challenge'. Let's stream, share, and soar into the new era of rock and space exploration.


Mixed & mastered by World-renown producer & engineer Lasse Lammert (Alestorm, Gloryhammer and countless more), the track is available on on Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer and all major streaming services.

Fan-filmed video of QUEENSRŸCHE's March 2 performance aboard this year's Monsters Of Rock cruise can be seen below.

Although QUEENSRŸCHE would score multi-platinum albums and hit singles over their career, their fans have developed an undeniable love for the group's early releases, the 1983 EP and 1984's "The Warning" album, when they helped trailblaze a style of rock that combined elements of metal and prog. And for the first time ever, QUEENSRŸCHE will be performing both classic releases in their entirety as part of "The Origins Tour".

Launching on March 22 in Houston, Texas at Hell's Heroes festival and running until May 12 in Ft. Meyers, Florida, "The Origins Tour" will see QUEENSRŸCHE — singer Todd La Torre, guitarists Michael Wilton and Mike Stone, bassist Eddie Jackson and drummer Casey Grillo — joined on most dates by another highly respected/influential band that also launched in the '80s, ARMORED SAINT.

bring to you 'The Origins Tour'," said La Torre. "This will be the first time in QUEENSRŸCHE's history that the EP and 'The Warning' will be performed live in their entirety. And to make this an even more stellar tour, we are so excited that our great friends and legendary metallers ARMORED SAINT will be joining us as direct support. We are all proud to bring you this touring package and we can't wait to see you on the road."

He added: "Join us for this unique and very special experience, as we celebrate the origins of QUEENSRŸCHE. Take hold!"

Early last year, QUEENSRŸCHE completed its 2023 U.S. headlining tour with support from former MEGADETH guitarist Marty Friedman and TRAUMA. On that tour, QUEENSRŸCHE's 18-song set included no less than five songs from the band's sixteenth studio album, "Digital Noise Alliance", which came out in October 2022 via Century Media. The record was once again helmed by Chris "Zeuss" Harris, who previously worked with QUEENSRŸCHE on 2015's "Condition Hüman" and 2019's "The Verdict" LPs.

Stone, who rejoined QUEENSRŸCHE in 2021, contributed guitar solos to the band's new studio album.

Since late May 2021, Stone has been handling second-guitar duties in QUEENSRŸCHE, which announced in July 2021 that longtime guitarist Parker Lundgren was exiting the group to focus on "other business ventures."

Stone originally joined QUEENSRŸCHE for the 2003 album "Tribe" and stayed with the band for six years before leaving the group.

For the past seven years, drummer Casey Grillo has been filling in for original QUEENSRŸCHE drummer Scott Rockenfield, who stepped away from the band's touring activities in early 2017 to spend time with his young son.

In October 2021, Rockenfield filed a lawsuit against guitarist Michael Wilton and bassist Eddie Jackson, alleging, among other things, breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty and wrongful discharge. A few months later, Wilton and Jackson filed a countersuit against Rockenfield, accusing him of abandoning his position as a member of the band and misappropriating the group's assets to his own personal benefit. That dispute is scheduled to go to trial in January 2024.

In a new interview with Riff X 's "Metal XS", IRON MAIDEN's Bruce Dickinson, who is quite the renaissance man — rock singer, pilot, business leader, author, international fencer, motivational speaker, radio host and more — was asked what he would say to people who are afraid of trying things or getting out of their comfort zone. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Well, all of us are afraid of failure. And you can choose to let it rule you or you can choose to ignore it and say, 'What's the worst thing that happens if I fail?' You fail. It doesn't change who you are. And people who are not gonna talk to you because you failed, maybe you shouldn't have been talking to them in the first place because they're not interested in who you are; they're interested in what you are or what you do.

"I have some close friends, and although they are interested and they know what I do, they're not friends with me because of what I do," he continued. "I hope they're friends with me because of who I am, and I like them because of who they are and not what they are or what they do.

"I can't spread myself too thin with people, so I don't have millions and millions and millions of friends. So I find social media completely exhausting, and I just don't go there. I just dissipate all my emotional energy on rubbish. So I prefer to just keep it tight and just with people I trust and close friends.

"To people who are afraid of failure, I'd say, look, think of it the other way. Think of it, to not try, to not push and see what happens is not to be alive," Bruce explained. "Life is not just existing. Life is activity and joy. And like I used to say that when I did my one-man show, my spoken-word thing that I did, life is better than all the other options."

Less than six years ago, Dickinson called the concept of multitasking "absolute rubbish," explaining that people who can juggle lots of things at the same time are actually good at rapid task switching. During his September 2018 spoken-word gig at Folketeateret in Oslo, Norway, Bruce was asked by a fan for his advice on optimizing his schedule for motivation and focus. He responded: "Well, I actually try and do things one thing at a time, 'cause it's all I can manage. I've discovered that if I try to do two things at a time, like for example eating with a knife and fork whilst at the same time trying to play chess, one of them has to suffer inevitably. So as simple as it may sound, just do whatever it is you're doing — do that — and then do something else.

"All this stuff about multitasking, it's rubbish — rubbish; absolute rubbish," he continued. "Women cannot multitask. Men cannot multitask. But some people are better at going from one thing to the other thing to the other thing to the other thing and back to the other thing and everything else like that. But if they're gonna be successful at that, they're gonna do one thing at a time and change rapidly from one to the other. That's not multitasking; that's figuring out how to change rapidly from one thing to the other."

Nine years ago, Dickinson, who turned 65 last August, completed a round of chemotherapy for a tumor on the back of his tongue and was given a clean bill of health.

Dickinson's first solo LP in 19 years, "The Mandrake Project", was released on March 1 via BMG. Bruce and his long-term co-writer and producer Roy "Z" Ramirez recorded the LP largely at Los Angeles's Doom Room, with Roy Z doubling up as both guitarist and bassist. The recording lineup for "The Mandrake Project" was rounded out by keyboard maestro Mistheria and drummer Dave Moreno, both of whom also featured on Bruce's previous solo studio album, "Tyranny Of Souls", in 2005.

Last month, Bruce revealed the addition of two new guitarists to his solo touring band. 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 Moreno, Mistheria and Tanya O'Callaghan (bass). Roy Z will not be part of the touring lineup.

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.

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.

In a new interview with James Steele of the FM 101.9 radio station, SHINEDOWN frontman Brent Smith was asked about the band's plans for the rest of 2024. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Man, [SHINEDOWN's latest single] 'A Symptom Of Being Human' is taking a very interesting trajectory. We are definitely not off cycle with this song. It's moving into other formats, which is pretty amazing. But we're already in the studio. We've been working on new material for a while.

"We're starting the architecture on what's gonna be the international plan for 2025 and 2026 with the band, which is quite massive," he continued. "We've got a handful of shows that we're gonna be doing this year. Some are already announced, some are gonna be later on, within the next couple of months. And there's gonna be a lot of stuff that [will be revealed] over time this year.

"We're trying to balance what's going on at the moment, but we're always working and we're always being — it's always what's next, what do we have to say, what do we wanna accomplish. So we're never really off cycle."

Asked if he will have a vacation sometime soon, Brent replied: "I'm no good with vacations. I had a little bit of a vacation during the holidays last year. So I got a little bit of downtime, but there's a lot going on right now. You kind of have to — when things are moving, you have to stay at the forefront of that. And sometimes, man, you're holding on. And it's more about I'm super stoked about the last two decades and where the band has arrived at the moment. But the key to success is to never arrive — there's always another mountain, there's always another gear, there's always another level to go. So here's to the next 20 [years] and beyond."

"A Symptom Of Being Human" recently landed at No. 1 at Active Rock. This marked SHINEDOWN's record-breaking 21st No. 1 song on the Mediabase Active Rock chart and extended the band's record for the most No. 1s in the history of Billboard's Mainstream Rock Airplay chart with 19 total. The crossover hit is also moving up the Alternative charts and now impacting at Top 40 radio nationwide, all following its Top 15 run at Hot AC in 2023.

SHINEDOWN has always believed that music is universal and doesn't have to be put in a genre box, as evidenced by "A Symptom Of Being Human" resonating with all listeners with its uplifting and important message about how we are all a work in progress. The band's exploration of the resilience of the human spirit, experiences with mental health, and the importance of empathy shine through in the track reminding us that we are more similar than we are different. Collectively, "A Symptom Of Being Human", the fourth No. 1 single from the band's acclaimed seventh studio album "Planet Zero" (Atlantic Records),has amassed over 40 million streams across all versions of the song including a pop remix, acoustic version, and piano version.

The "Planet Zero" album also featured the pop-rock anthem and No. 1 rock hit "Daylight", which People called one of "the most powerful of pop-rock songs created to remind us that we are truly all in this together." The band's video for "Daylight", set to the Amazon Original version of the song, is a love letter to their fans and shows the impact that the song's message — that you are never alone — had during SHINEDOWN's sold-out "Planet Zero" world tour.

SHINEDOWN also released a music video for rock single "Dead Don't Die", a rousing declaration of survival and an anthem about the resilience of the human spirit after trying times.

"Planet Zero" boldly confronts the societal forces that perpetuate divisiveness while offering a restorative path forward through empathy and open conversation — ultimately serving as a reminder that it is our human connections that matter the most. The album debuted in the Top 5 on the Billboard 200 chart and the official U.K. albums chart, and at No. 1 on six other Billboard charts, including Top Album Sales, Rock, Hard Rock, and Alternative Albums.

Tarja Turunen and her former NIGHTWISH bandmate Marko "Marco" Hietala played the third show of their joint "Living The Dream - The Hits Tour 2024" last night (Sunday, March 3) at Teatro Vorterix in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The setlist for Tarja's performance was as follows:

01. Eye Of The Storm
02. Demons In You
03. Die Alive
04. Diva
05. Shadow Play
06. Dead To The World (NIGHTWISH song) (with Marco Hietala)
07. Dark Star (with Marco Hietala)
08. Left On Mars (with Marco Hietala)
09. Dead Promises (with Marco Hietala)
10. The Phantom Of The Opera (Andrew Lloyd Webber cover) (with Marco Hietala)
11. Wish I Had An Angel (NIGHTWISH song) (with Marco Hietala)
12. I Walk Alone
13. Victim Of Ritual

Encore:

14. Innocence
15. Until My Last Breath
16. Over The Hills And Far Away (Gary Moore cover) (with Marco Hietala)

Fan-filmed video can be seen below.

In a recent interview with Thiago Rahal Mauro of Brazil's Metal Musikast, Tarja spoke about what it was like to team up with Marko to perform a cover of "The Phantom Of The Opera" during their special open-air concert in July 2023 at Z7 Summer Nights in Pratteln, Switzerland. Tarja and Marko both played individual sets at the event, with their rendition of the main theme from Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical coming during Turunen's portion of the show.

"I got a call from a promoter to take part in one festival in Switzerland last year in a European summertime in July," Tarja said. "And then I got to know, when I had accepted to be the artist of the evening, then I saw that they had also invited Marko and Marko's band to perform in the same festival. So I thought, 'Hmm.' And I was actually sending a message that I wished to reach Marko, because I didn't have his contact any longer, to ask him to perform with me 'The Phantom Of The Opera' in my show. And he responded 'yes.' So, after 18 years [laughs], we were about to sing the song together. And it was super exciting. It was really beautiful. The people got very emotional about this.

"We had met already before — we had been singing on a few occasions in Finland a few years before — so we kind of cleaned the table on that occasion already," she explained. "So we were in good terms, so to say, but now singing 'The Phantom Of The Opera' together after all these years was amazing. So we did it twice, actually — we did it in Switzerland and then in Finland. And now we are going to do it — that and a lot more [laughs] — there in Brazil [during our upcoming joint tour]."

Tarja also elaborated on her friendship with Marko, saying: "It's a new relationship with him, because he's not the same person anymore than he was in the band. He has changed a lot, and many years have passed by. I've changed myself. Life has changed us. So it is a new relationship, let's say. And it had made me very happy to get to know him better after all these years."

Last November, Tarja admitted to Chaoszine that she was "nervous" before performing "The Phantom Of The Opera" with Marko at Z7 Summer Nights. "I believe that he was nervous as well to meet up with me, but we were both very excited to go back to the stage and to sing the song," she said. "We sang 'Phantom Of The Opera' in Switzerland for the first time. Then we went over to Finland to perform it again, did a show together there — he with his band and me with my own. Wow. It was pure emotion. I think it was really beautiful, but it made me kind of… I was, like, 'I'm in peace,' sort of. The feeling was great. I think it was even more for Marko, because I saw him standing there after my concert, when I finished my set, and he came like almost in tears, saying that this was important. We reconnected, and it's great. Now I'm really looking forward to have this tour [with Marko] in South America in March [2024], and I'm sure you will see something else happening also. Yeah, you'll hear."

Turunen was fired from NIGHTWISH at the end of the band's 2005 tour by being presented with an open letter which was published on the NIGHTWISH web site at the same time. In the letter, the other members of NIGHTWISH wrote: "To you, unfortunately, business, money, and things that have nothing to do with emotions have become much more important."

NIGHTWISH keyboardist and main songwriter Tuomas Holopainen later called the decision to part ways with Turunen "the most difficult thing I ever had to do." For her part, Tarja said the way she was kicked out of the group proved that her former bandmates were not her friends. "Maybe one day I'll forgive, but I will never forget," she said.

In 2019, Turunen dismissed Internet chatter about her possible return to NIGHTWISH after her December 2017 onstage reunion with the band's then-bassist/vocalist Hietala during a "Raskasta Joulua" concert in Hämeenlinna, Finland.

"I know a lot of fans would love to see something happen, but it's a very long distance away," she told Kerrang! magazine. "Personally, I don't see anything happening with me and them, to be perfectly honest. Marko came a little later into the band; he wasn't there since the beginning. He was always a guy I was close to. Me and Tuomas Holopainen, however, haven't seen each other in a long time… but we have been in touch. It's not bad. The past is what it is; we can't change that. We can only change the future."

NIGHTWISH's authorized biography, "Once Upon a Nightwish: The Official Biography 1996-2006", was published in Finnish in 2006 and in English three years later.

Turunen's husband, Marcelo Cabuli, and his business partners later sued the parties behind the book for defamation. Named in the lawsuit were the publishing house Like Kustannus Oy and the author of the book, Marko "Mape" Ollila. Cabuli and his Brazilian business partners argued that the book includes false accusations and insinuations that have caused them suffering and financial problems.

The book blamed Cabuli for the events leading up to Turunen's dramatic expulsion from the band in late 2005.

In 2011, the Helsinki District Court dismissed Cabuli's lawsuit, ruling that the book — which criticized Cabuli on only a few of its 380 pages — did not detrimentally affect his work or reputation in South America. In addition, the court determined that Ollila did not maliciously portray Cabuli in a negative light.

Nearly two years ago, Tarja was asked in an interview with Top Link Music manager and concert promoter Paulo Baron and music critic Regis Tadeu if she would consider doing a tour with NIGHTWISH if all of her former bandmates apologized to her about how their split happened and invited her to share the stage with them again. She responded: "It is very, very hypothetical that all what you said will happen, first of all — it's very, very hypothetical.

"I'm living in a world, like we are all living in a world, that things happen without us noticing," she continued. "I mean, I can't really close any doors in that sense; I'm not that kind of person any longer. I learned so many things in this life already. I take them as they are.

"So I don't know. It would be very hypothetically possible," she added. "It would be unlikely to happen."

Hietala announced his departure from NIGHTWISH in January 2021, explaining in a statement that he hadn't "been able to feel validated by this life for a quite a few years now." He has since been replaced by session bassist Jukka Koskinen (WINTERSUN),who made his live debut with NIGHTWISH in May 2021 at the band's two interactive experiences.

In an August 2022 interview with Finland's Chaoszine, Hietala revealed that he went through a dark period in his life, which included depression, insomnia, anxiety and an eventual attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis. Speaking about how he eventually came to the realization that exiting NIGHTWISH was the right thing to do, Marko said: "It was a long process. Of course, the COVID year that was there, where I had a lot of time for soul searching, it obviously gave me the last incentive that I need something else, that if I just continue with this I'm just gonna get sicker and sicker. But, of course, it's a process.

"I've been chronic depressive since 2010 [or] 2011, so I've been on a permanent medication ever since," he revealed. "Sometimes you get used to the meds [and] you will need more. We did raise [the dosage] during the years also, but it just didn't work. And now that I started to do… I had psychotherapy for over four years now, and then I also talked to psychiatrists and some doctors and did that also in Spain. Then my psychiatrist here in Finland said that I should do these ADHD neuropsychological tests, which I then did in Spain. And, okay, I got it."

Hietala reiterated that he "had been thinking about" leaving NIGHTWISH "for a while" before making the final decision. "Because I had a lot of weight. And I tend to… With the attention disorder, it tells me that when there are lots of trouble, then the disorder makes it into a real chaos," he explained. "There's a shitload of stuff coming and going and no peace anywhere. And for a year or two, I was already waking up every night at three o'clock to bad dreams and anxiety. So I'd say that the whole process probably started already with my former divorce [in 2016]. That was a very sad time when you think about your kids and your broken homes and all that. And then, when I started to get clear from that, then there were, well, all kinds of things. I don't really wanna go any deeper to what kind of things I'd gone through, but I'd gone through enough."

Acknowledging that making NIGHTWISH's latest studio album, 2020's "Human. :II: Nature.", was a "difficult" experience for him, Marko denied that his mental state at the time resulted in a diminished role for him on the final LP. "I think the original idea was to have that… we'll do a couple of [solo vocal appearances], or one solo for me and Troy [Donockley], and the rest Floor [Jansen], and then the harmonies; that was the idea originally for that," he said. "So I don't know if it affected. I think it was sort of as planned. But at that time I already had serious trouble with concentrating and serious trouble with a constant black cloud over my head."

In July 2022, Hietala told Finland's Iltalehti that he had not kept in touch with NIGHTWISH since his departure or followed the activities of his former band.

In May 2021, Holopainen said that Hietala's decision to leave NIGHTWISH "came as a bit of a surprise." He told Finland's Kaaos TV: "Marko informed us in December [of 2020 that he was leaving the band]. And even though he has been very open about his state and problems during the past years, it still came as a bit of a surprise for us. So it was a really tough pill to swallow. And for a few days, I was actually quite confident that there's no coming back, that this is it. I remember talking to Emppu [Vuorinen], the guitar player, and we were, like, 'You think this is it?' 'Yeah, I think this is it.' I mean, enough is enough. So much has happened in the past. Something that broke the camel's back, as they say. Then, after some time had passed — a few days — we started to think that it's been such a ride of 25 years, with so many ups also, that this is not the way to end it."

Tuomas elaborated on NIGHTWISH's reasons for carrying on, saying: "I think we still have something to give, and that's the main point. The music is still there. We felt that there's still so much music that needs to come out from this band that, 'Okay, let's give it one more shot.' And then finding the new bass player was really easy."

He added: "It's not like we do this just because we need to do it and there's nothing else to do. On a personal level, I feel that there's still so many stories and melodies that I want to share with the world with one lineup or another, so that's why you want to continue and keep on going.

"I've said this a million times, that a lineup change is the ultimate energy vampire, and that's how it really felt and still feels."

In June 2021, Jansen spoke about Hietala's exit from the band in an episode of her "Storytime" YouTube video series. She said: "That was a very sudden surprise that, of course, was not fun at all. But we understand — I understand — it was a necessary thing for him to do. And from there, we had to think of how to continue without him, and that also, in preparations towards the virtual show, that was a huge challenge."

In December 2020, Hietala was crowned the winner of the fall 2020 season of "Masked Singer Suomi" — the Finnish edition of the popular masked singing contest. He was disguised as Tohtori — the Doctor.

In the summer of 2021, Holopainen said that NIGHTWISH would split up if the band's current singer Floor Jansen ever chose to leave. Holopainen, who formed NIGHTWISH in 1996 with guitarist Emppu Vuorinen and Turunen, made the comment while discussing the departure of Hietala.

Pressed by U.K.'s Metal Hammer magazine about his 2019 statement that NIGHTWISH would disband if another member opted to depart, Tuomas said: "That's how I felt back in 2019, and that's also how I felt when Marko left. I take my words back when it comes to that. But if it would be Floor leaving, that's it, it's the end of NIGHTWISH. Absolutely, 100%."
Living The Dream Tour starts tomorrow! Get a M&G upgrade to get the chance to meet Tarja, take a photo and receive exclusive merchandise! https://t.co/G9Pc7veSWQpic.twitter.com/6zQmffJpfW

— Tarja Turunen (@tarjaofficial) February 27, 2024

Night Ranger performed at Mars Music Hall in Huntsville, AL on March 1st. During their set, they performed the Ozzy Osbourne classic, "Crazy Train". Fan-filmed video is available below.


Guitarist Brad Gillis was a member of Ozzy's band in 1982 on the Diary Of A madman tour. He appears on the Speak Of The Devil live album released that year.


 




In 1982, Night Ranger guitarist Brad Gillis replaced the late Randy Rhoads in Ozzy Osbourne's band, going on the Diaray Of A Madman tour and recording the Speak Of The Devil live album. Guesting on Episode 19 of the That Rocks! podcast in October 2023, he reflected on joining Ozzy, and Night Ranger achieving major success at the same time.


Gillis: "It was a beautiful period in my life, because playing with Ozzy was a wonderful thing. It was very scary, a lot of drama. Just the tragic death of Randy Rhoads, me stepping into that… it was freaking heavy, man. And to be able to get back with my boys in Night Ranger and release Dawn Patrol and come out with 'Don't Tell Me You Love Me', and then what do we do? We went out opening for KISS! So, that wasn't bad, either."





Night Ranger are:


Jack Blades - Vocals, Bass
Kelly Keagy - Vocals, Drums
Brad Gillis - Lead & Rhythm Guitars
Eric Levy - Keyboards
Keri Kelli - Lead & Rhythm Guitars

In the new video below, Triumph bassist Mike Levine, who is well known for wearing hockey jerseys during concerts, is asked to tell the history or the backstory about his jerseys.


Says Mike: "Well, we were talking about that earlier today, and Rik (Emmett) alluded to the fact that it was kind of like free stage clothes for me." (laughs)


Rik pipes in, adding, "Mike didn't have a lot of wardrobe."




Mike continues, "We played Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto, and there was three hockey jerseys hanging in the dressing room, so I put one on and wore it, and the fans, when we walked on stage, went crazy. I went, 'that's a really good idea', so whenever we played in an NHL hockey rink, there'd be the road crew, road manager, tour manager, whoever, would arrange that there'd be a hockey jersey in the dressing room, so I could wear it on stage."

Director Jeff Claire at Five O Backstage One has shared pro-shot video of Van Halen performing at the Stone Music Festival in Sydney, Australia at the ANZ Stadium on April 20th, 2013.


It was part of Van Halen's A Different Kind Of Truth tour. The entire show can be viewed below.


Setlist:




"Unchained"
"Runnin' With the Devil"
"She's the Woman"
"Romeo Delight"
"Tattoo"
"Everybody Wants Some"
"Somebody Get Me a Doctor"
"China Town"
"Oh, Pretty Woman" (Roy Orbison)
- drum solo -
"You Really Got Me" (The Kinks)
"Dance the Night Away"
"I'll Wait"
"Hot for Teacher"
"Beautiful Girls"
"Ice Cream Man" (John Brim)
"Panama"
- guitar solo - 
"Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love"


Encore:
"Jump"

Blacktop Mojo releases “As The Light Fades” - a track totally unlike anything they’ve created before, to be followed by a full-length studio album, Pollen, on April 5th. “As The Light Fades” is a feel-good anthem and a passionate track that oozes with infectious energy of summer and young love. Listen now at this location.


Blacktop Mojo’s classic rock influences shine through with powerful guitar riffs, while their infamous ‘Southern grunge’ makes its mark in the vocals and twangy instrumentation.  


“'As The Light Fades' is a nostalgic look at young infatuation that turns into life-long love, from running inside when the streetlights come on all the way to the last tender kiss shared before crossing into The Great Beyond.” - Matt James, lead vocals for Blacktop Mojo







“'As The Light Fades' definitely had all the feel good classic rock n’ roll vibes, a style we hadn’t really touched before in previous albums. We honestly couldn’t be happier with the result, especially after having Rob McNelly, who has played for Bob Seger, add some guitar to it.” - Matt Curtis, bassist for Blacktop Mojo 


The origin of the song started in 2021 with a Bob Seger-style melody created by Matt Curtis and Matt James on the porch of their shared ‘band house’. In no time, it progressed into a full-on classic rock n’ roll hit, with additions from Rob McNelley (guitarist for Bob Seger, Dierks Bentley, Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, Eric Church, and Luke Combs) himself.


Opening lyrics, “Don’t change the channel don’t turn the page. We’re living in the sunset of a golden age,” demonstrate the talent of writers Matt James and Matt Curtis, while producer Philip Mosley layers in sounds reminiscent of rock influences, along with Blacktop Mojo’s special flare.


With inspirations ranging all the way from Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bill Withers, Stone Temple Pilots, to Bob Seger and Etta James, Blacktop Mojo’s music has elements of heavy rock, grunge, soul, blues, and a little splash of southern twang.


Make sure to catch Blacktop Mojo on tour from April to August. Their live itinerary can be found here.





 

In an empowering return, The Georgia Thunderbolts have unveiled their latest single, "Rise Above It All", available now on all digital platforms. This new anthem, steeped in the band's signature blend of rock and roll, Southern rock, Americana, and raw, heartfelt energy, serves as an early taste of their eagerly awaited new studio album, due out this fall. Listen here on all digital platforms.


"Alone we can do wonderful things. Together? We can reach immeasurable bounds,” comments vocalist TJ Lyle. “Be kind. Be courageous and even in the darkest of nights, always chase the light! There’s no limit to what we can achieve. Together we can and we will rise above it all."







This release follows the band's debut album, which has quietly become a sensation, amassing over 6 million streams worldwide. The Georgia Thunderbolts continue to forge their path in the music industry, blending timeless rock influences with their unique flair. 


Hailing from Rome, Georgia, at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, The Georgia Thunderbolts have blazed a trail for a new generation of classic and southern rock enthusiasts. Their sound, deeply rooted in soulful southern swagger, blistering blues, and raw rock, is reminiscent of the iconic rock 'n' roll legends that influenced their musical journey. Their eclectic inspirations span from southern gospel and Hank Williams to the grit of Black Sabbath, the southern rock charm of the Allman Brothers and Lynyrd Skynyrd and great Georgia singers like James Brown and Otis Redding.  It's not just their music that captures attention; their deep-rooted history in Rome, a town steeped in rich agricultural heritage, influences their lyrical narratives and showcases their authentic southern spirit.


From their early days, the band has shared memorable moments on stage with music titans such as Black Stone Cherry, Deep Purple, the Allman Betts Band and Blackberry Smoke. The band has also performed at notable festivals, including the Georgia Country Music Fest alongside headliner Koe Wetzel. Their debut album, as well as their new album, recorded at the iconic Barrick Recording Studio in Glasgow, KY, is a testament to their dedication, passion, and commitment to rock ‘n’ roll. With tracks that blend anthemic guitar riffs, wild harmonica, and pulse-pounding drums, The Georgia Thunderbolts have proven that they are here to rustle up a new era of rock 'n' roll. Their timeless sound, combined with their relentless work ethic and humility, positions them as torchbearers, ensuring the legacy of southern rock remains vibrant and relevant for generations to come.


The band's ascent is a testament to their dedication, passion, and the vibrant legacy of rock and roll. As they prepare to release their next album, The Georgia Thunderbolts invite fans old and new to join them in this exciting new chapter. Stay tuned for more updates on the upcoming album, and catch The Georgia Thunderbolts live in a city near you. For tour dates and ticket information, visit GeorgiaThunderbolts.com.


The Georgia Thunderbolts – Tour Dates:


March 
9 - Ellis Theater - Philadelphia, MS (with The Kentucky Headhunters)
16 - Coffee Butler Amphitheater - Key West, FL (with Marshall Tucker Band)
17 - Lillian Wells Hall at The Parker - Ft. Lauderdale, FL (with Marshall Tucker Band)
26 - Caloosa Sound Amphitheater - Fort Myers, FL (with Marshall Tucker Band)


April
6 - The Martin Center - Douglas, GA (with Blackberry Smoke)\


August
10 - Beaver Dam Amphitheater - Beaver Dam, KY (with Ace Frehley and Foghat)





(Photo credit: Jim Arbogsast)


 

Wattudragaren is the first solo album from Niklas Sundin, best known as a founding member and guitarist of Dark Tranquillity, the Grammy winning Swedish metal band that for nearly three decades has helped carving out an entire subgenre and inspired musicians all around the globe.


In contrast to his work in the aforementioned band, and the more recent electronica-tinged Mitochondrial Sun, Wattudragaren is a decidedly sombre piece of ambient music, designed not to be dark or ominous but ethereal and airy, with subtle melodies drifting in and out while providing a sonic tapestry for contemplation.


The album is the result of a long and eclectic creative process, incorporating everything from field recordings and granular synthesis to regularly played instruments. Always sparse and minimalistic, aiming for atmosphere rather than technical perfection.




Says Niklas: “On one level, I enjoy experimenting with music where the timbre and “soul” of the individual sounds are as important as the notes played. On another level, creating a lengthy and droning “nature album” is a small symbolical act of resistance in an era where a lot of music seems to be aiming for surface-level catchiness and instant gratification.”


This philosophy is also reflected in the physical version of the album: Limited edition Digipak CD on special organic artboard stock and a 12-page booklet on uncoated paper. Since Niklas is also a prolific illustrator, the triangular area of the cover will house a custom ink drawing reflecting the content of the album, making each copy a unique item.


Wattudragaren will be released on March 5, and will exclusively be available from the Niklas Sundin Bandcamp page and the newly founded Inertial Music label. It’ll be uploaded to the streaming services at a later point, but for now the focus is on the physical representation of the album.





Tracklisting:


"Reka"
"Tagel"
"Urminnet"
"Tjärnen"
"Kören"
"Andetagen"
"Lägerelden"
"Tidens tyngd"
"Rösten"
"Ytan"

Italian power metallers Frozen Crown, who recently wrapped up a Scandonavian tour supporting U.D.O., have shared the following message with their fans:


"We have so many beautiful memories from our latest tour it would be hard to just summarize them in a single post, but we really would like to thank all the beautiful people we met on the road. Thanks, of course, to U.D.O. for letting us warm up the stage before their no compromise heavy metal shows (which we enjoyed every night like true fanboys and fangirls), and thanks to every single member of the crowd who discovered us each night and showed his / her warmth despite being in the coldest places we've ever been. The treatment was just top notch, and the venues, the hotels, the dinners (as true Italians we couldn't avoid mentioning this) were just unbelievable. It was amazing to taste this small slice of Scandinavian lifestyle, and we truly appreciated the 'Northern Comfort'. Everything about these beautiful places and people are now stuck in our hearts!"










Frozen Crown inked a worldwide contract with Napalm Records in June 2023. The five-piece was founded in 2018, and have since become one of the most influential Italian metal bands in the current scene.


So far, Frozen Crown have released four albums - The Fallen King (2018), Crowned In Frost (2019), Winterbane (2021) and this year’s Call Of The North - which have brought the band huge media exposure, millions of streams and video views, and big European tours with the likes of Dragonforce and Nanowar Of Steel, as well as two headlining tours in Japan.


Their current album, Call Of The North, is Frozen Crown’s most mature work so far, showcasing the best of the band’s unique power metal style infused with classic heavy metal, melodic death metal and speed metal influences, all topped with bombastic production highlighting opulent orchestrations and harmonies.


Frozen Crown on the signing: "We're happy and honored to join the Napalm Records family and we're ready for our next big step together. Since we founded this band in 2018 we worked hard incessantly, day after day, not only trying to put our best in our studio albums and live, but also managing the band all by ourselves, conquering every single little accomplishment with our DIY attitude, always keeping loyal to our (extremely) small entourage. Thanks to the support of our lovely fans, Frozen Crown eventually grew bigger, and got to a point where we were not able to handle it all by ourselves anymore. At the same time, we knew we needed more firepower to push the band further and bring it to the next level. And speaking of firepower, Napalm Records was just the best record label to start this new chapter with... We're excited beyond words to be part of the best metal label in the world, and we can't wait to start working together on our new album, joining forces with this huge team of professionals."


Sebastian Muench, Senior A&R Napalm Records, adds: “Frozen Crown are simply one of the most creative power metal bands to emerge in the last five years. Their previous releases, Winterbane and Call Of The North, are brilliant. We look forward to working with Frozen Crown to reach the next level in their career.”


Frozen Crown are:


Giada “Jade” Etro - Vocals
Federico Mondelli - Vocals, Guitar
Fabiola Bellomo - Guitar
Francesco Zof - Bass
Niso Tomasini - Drums

Phear have released a bass playthrough video for "Save Our Souls", the title track from their new studio album, set for release this spring. Watch Phear bassist and Spector artist Chris Boshis perform the track below:





Watch a guitar playthrough video for "Save Our Souls" below:







Phear has been recording this album over the last three years, mostly due to Covid restrictions. But now it’s time for these Canuck metalheads to unleash the heaviest tracks so far in the Phear catalogue!


2024 will be all about performing these new songs live. If you have ever seen Phear in concert, you know that they deliver an arena show in a club. As stated by the band; “You haven’t seen anything yet!”


Fans can stay up-to-date on Save Our Souls release details by joining their email list here.


Save Our Souls is expected to feature the following tracks:


“Save Our Souls”
“Snake”
“Aftershock”
“Lease On Life”
“Narcosynthesis”
“Bleed”
“On Thin Ice”
“New World Error”
“Delusions” (Live / Bonus track)


“Save Our Souls” video:

Black Label Society drummer, Jeff Fabb, will release his new single, "See No Evil", on March 8. You can pre-save the single here.


"'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


Jeff Fabb has made his name in ground-breaking heavy metal bands such as Black Label Society, In This Moment, Sixx:A.M., and Filter. Jeff decided to pioneer his own sound with his debut album, released in November of last year.




“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 own unique flair.





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.

Iron Maiden singer, Bruce Dickinson, will release his new solo album, The Mandrake Project, via BMG on March 1. Bruce has shared the new video below, in which talks about the making of his new album:





Ahead of the release of The Mandrake Project and the start of a four month tour,  Bruce recently revealed the addition of two new guitarists in the touring lineup.




Swedish born guitarist, songwriter and multi-platinum credited producer Philip Naslund and Swiss session and touring guitarist Chris Declercq will add their fire to band members Dave Moreno, Mistheria and Tanya O’Callaghan.


“Sadly, and with regret, guitarist and producer Roy Z will no longer join the band on tour due to some personal commitments,” explains Dickinson. “He will remain in LA to work on some re-mixing and re-mastering of the catalogue. We all know the show must go on though and this project is too important to everyone to not be the very best it can be. I’m gutted about Roy because he assembled most of the album and touring band, introducing Mistheria & Dave Moreno to the project and mentoring guitarist Chris Declerq. I’m so excited about what both Philip and Chris will bring on stage together and now my only ambition is to grab a little piece of the audiences’ hearts every night.”


Dickinson's tour in support of The Mandrake Project will launch on April 15 at The Observatory in Orange County, CA. Find the complete tour itinerary here.





Dickinson will release The Mandrake Project 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.


The Mandrake Project is Dickinson’s seventh solo album. Pre-order 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:

One year ago, Norway's trailblazing cosmic voyagers, Enslaved, released their latest avant-garde creation titled Heimdal. To celebrate the studio album's first year of existence, the band announced the Heimdal (Deluxe) digital album, which is out today, ss well as a UK and European tour with British post-hardcore quartet Svalbard and US metallers Wayfarer this month.


Also today, Enslaved are thrilled to announce that internationally acclaimed composer and virtuoso cellist, Jo Quail, will make a special appearance at the first show of the tour, on March 6 at London's Islington Assembly Hall.







To celebrate this news, Enslaved have released an electrifying alternative version of their track "Congelia", featuring Jo Quail, alongside a beautiful lyric video created by Kolibri Media.


Guitarist Ivar Bjørnson commented, "London has a very special place in the history of our band, since the very first live shows we ever did outside of our home town(s) - the city has supported us through it all. We have a huge part of our extended family and tribe here; it is always like coming home. Just with better Indian food and worse traffic. This time London seems set on outdoing its welcome of us; Jo Quail will join us on stage to perform 'Congelia' with us! We are so proud and eager to show you how absolutely crushing that sounds. See you very soon. Baah!"


Jo Quail commented, "I am thrilled to be joining forces with Enslaved once again on stage! It was such a wonderful experience in Bergen last year and I am honoured to be able to do this again in London - I hope you'll enjoy this moment as much as I will."


Stream Heimdal (Deluxe) here, and watch the new lyric video below:





Heimdal (Deluxe) includes the studio album in full, as well as bonus track "Gangandi", alternative versions of two album tracks "Congelia" and "Forest Dweller", both featuring sublime performances from renowned cellist Jo Quail, plus the entirety of The Otherworldly Big Band Experience - Enslaved's stunning 2022 streaming event featuring fellow psychedelic Norwegian prog band Shaman Elephant.





Enslaved's latest studio album Heimdal (released March 2023) is both a departure and a communion with roots forged over three decades ago in the turbulent birth throes of Norway’s black metal scene. It's a record that points towards new beginnings, and a dawn that’s on the other side of the apex of the land. A psychedelic journey through arcane Norse folklore, connecting with one's ancient ancestors and our future selves.


The Otherworldly Big Band Experience was an Enslaved show like none other, their biggest, boldest project to date - a colossal, kaleidoscopic stage show featuring a stellar setlist covering their career, both past and present. Including some tracks never previously performed live.





Enslaved will be touring the UK and Europe in March. Tickets are on-sale now, here.





Tour dates:


March
6 - London, UK - Islington Assembly Hall
7 - Leeds, UK - Brudenell Social Club
8 - Manchester, UK - Club Academy
9 - Glasgow, UK - Slay
10 - Dublin, Ireland - Opium
12 - Helmond, Netherlands - Cacaofabriek
13 - Paris, France - La Machine
14 - Geneva, Switzerland - PTR/l'Usine
15 - Montpellier, France - Victoire 2
16 - Milan, Italy - Legend
18 - Prague, Czech Republic - Futurum
19 - Vienna, Austria - Szene
21 - Cologne, Germany - Club Volta
22 - Leipzig, Germany - Taubchenthal
23 - Berlin, Germany - Hole44
24 - Warsaw, Poland - Proxima


Enslaved have also been announced for some festivals in 2024:


July
31-August 3 - Beyond The Gates - Bergen, Norway


August
11 - Bloodstock Festival - Derby, UK
14-17 - Summer Breeze - Dinkelsbühl, Germany


November
16-17 - Mexico Metal Fest - Mexico City, Mexico


Enslaved are:


Ivar Bjørnson - guitars
Grutle Kjellson - vocals
Arve 'Ice Dale' Isdal - guitar
Håkon Vinje - keyboards, clean vocals
Iver Sandøy - drums


(Enslaved photo - Roy Bjørge; Jo Quail photo - Morris Longfellow)

Linkin Park's hit "Faint" has been given the swing treatment by Postmodern Jukebox vocalist Robyn Adele Anderson and her band. Check out this new rendition of the song below.


Robyn: "Even though Linkin Park’s lyrics are usually about deep and dark subject matter, they can be seen as empowering when the tempo and energy is high- much like the original version of 'Faint'. This was always one of my favorite songs and I just knew it needed a big band to help get the message across." 







In 2020, Linkin Park celebrated the 20th Anniversary of their breakthrough debut album, Hybrid Theory. They issued a previously unreleased song from the recording sessions for the album called "She Couldn't". Check it out below.


"It's incredible to think it's been 20 years since Hybrid Theory was released. All gratitude to our fans who made this epic journey we started 20 years ago possible. We dedicate our music to you. We rededicate our Hybrid Theory to you."





A limited-edition deluxe box set for the re-issue includes five CDs, three DVDs, three vinyl LPs, an 80-page illustrated book featuring unseen photos, a replica tour laminate, a poster of late Chester Bennington, and three lithographs of new art by Mike Shinoda, Joe Hahn and Hybrid Theory art director and reissue art director Frank Maddocks.

In the clip below, King Crimson founder Robert Fripp and his wife, Toyah Willcox, revisit their cover of David Bowie's "The Jean Genie" for Sunday Lunch.


"We look back at one of the best Sunday Lunches from way back in 2020!"







Check out more Sunday Lunch selections below.


"Basket Case"





"Give In To Me"





"Lick It Up"