Slash's long-running band SLASH FEATURING MYLES KENNEDY & THE CONSPIRATORS performed at Namba Hatch in Osaka, Japan as part of its "The River Is Rising - Rest Of The World Tour '24". Fan-filmed video of the concert can be seen below.

The band's setlist was as follows:

01. The River Is Rising
02. Driving Rain
03. Halo
04. Too Far Gone
05. Back From Cali
06. Whatever Gets You By
07. C'est La Vie
08. Actions Speak Louder Than Words
09. Always On The Run (Lenny Kravitz cover)
10. Bent To Fly
11. Mind Your Manners
12. Spirit Love
13. Bad Apples (GUNS N' ROSES song)
14. Starlight
15. Wicked Stone
16. April Fool
17. Fill My World
18. Doctor Alibi
19. You're A Lie
20. World On Fire

Encore:

21. Rocket Man (I Think It's Going to Be a Long, Long Time) (Elton John cover)
22. Anastasia

SLASH FEATURING MYLES KENNEDY & THE CONSPIRATORS kicked off "The River Is Rising - Rest Of The World Tour '24" on January 23 with the band's return to Mexico City's Pepsi Centre WTC. The group's 24-song setlist included the live debut of a deep GUNS N' ROSES cut, "Don't Damn Me", featuring bassist Todd Kerns on lead vocals.

Support on various dates of SLASH FEATURING MYLES KENNEDY & THE CONSPIRATORS's "The River Is Rising - Rest Of The World Tour '24" is coming from MAMMOTH WVH.

Prior to the launch of "The River Is Rising – Rest Of The World Tour '24", SLASH FEATURING MYLES KENNEDY & THE CONSPIRATORS last performed in February and March 2022 as part of a U.S. tour.

SLASH FEATURING MYLES KENNEDY & THE CONSPIRATORS' latest album, "4", was released in February 2022 via Gibson Records in partnership with BMG.

"4" was Slash's fifth solo album and fourth overall with his band featuring Myles Kennedy (vocals),Brent Fitz (drums),Todd Kerns (bass, vocals) and Frank Sidoris (guitar, vocals).

SLASH FEATURING MYLES KENNEDY & THE CONSPIRATORS released "Live At Studios 60", their first-ever double live LP, for last year's Record Store Day in June 2022. The effort contained a performance of "4", plus four additional songs from the group. Recorded live in Los Angeles at Studios 60, the "Live At Studios 60" double LP exclusive Record Store Day release was limited to only 2,250 copies. The full concert featured all the songs from "4". Additional performances of the group's Top 5 rock radio hits, including "You're A Lie", "World On Fire", "Anastasia" and "Driving Rain" are also included in the double vinyl package.

For "4", Slash and the band traveled across the country together to Nashville, Tennessee and recorded the new album at the historic RCA Studio A with producer Dave Cobb (Chris Stapleton, John Prine, Jason Isbell, Brandi Carlile),revealing a stunning new sound and style all captured live in the studio. Cobb shared the band's desire to lay down the tracks live, in the studio including guitar solos and vocals — a first for the group.

#TheRiverIsRisingTour Slash ft. Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators playing tonight at Namba Hatch in Osaka, Japan 🇯🇵🎩🎸🤘

#slash #myleskennedy #toddkerns #brentfitz #franksidoris #smkc #osaka #japan

Posted by Myles Kennedy Army on Saturday, March 2, 2024

Intranced, the Los Angeles-based quartet, is storming into 2024 in high gear, eager to introduce their sound to a worldwide audience of old-school heavy metal fans. They will release their first full length album, Muerte y Metal, on June 7th via High Roller Records. The band features vocalist James-Paul Luna (ex-Holy Grail, White Wizzard) and guitarist Fili Bibiano (Fortress). 


Mixed by Herbrand Larsen (Enslaved, Audrey Horne) and mastered by Brad Boatwright, Muerte y Metal offers ten tracks of soaring, anthemic melodies, intricate guitar-playing, hard-charging NWOBHM beats, and distinctive late-'70ss swagger. The title track will be released as the first single, on March 15th, just in time for Intranced's  appearance at the Hell’s Heroes festival in Houston, TX (March 21-23).


The band will also be releasing a new shirt design inspired by the song, which is currently available via Bandcamp.







Tracklist:


"Reyes de las Tinieblas"
"Switchblade"
"Fantasy"
"I Dunno Nothin'"
"Muerte y Metal"
"Entra La Tormenta"
"Lady Lightning"
"Pulse"
"Passionate Pretender"
"See You On The Other Side"

During a question-and-answer session aboard this year's Monsters Of Rock cruise, former JUDAS PRIEST and current KK'S PRIEST frontman Tim "Ripper" Owens was asked what he does to take care of his singing voice. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Well, I'm lucky, 'cause the voice is a weird thing. I remember Ken [former JUDAS PRIEST and current KK'S PRIEST guitarist Kenneth 'K.K.' Downing] said something. I lost my voice at the second show on the European JUDAS PRIEST tour. And I would go swimming and go to the steam room and I just totally lost my voice. And he said, 'Tim, guitar players have to shut their fingers in the car door [before they are unable to play]. You can just wake up and not have a voice.' And for about five years I didn't. But I've always taken care of it. I go to the gym, I work out, but I don't talk a lot. I hide away when I'm on tour. But it's lucky. You can just lose your voice. But I'm singing better right now. My high notes are better now than, I think, they've ever been. I guess I get up and hope I can sing. That's basically it."

Asked how he gets ready for a live performance, Tim said: "Well, I don't like to talk [before a show]. That was one thing Ronnie [James Dio] was… There was no one like Ronnie. He would not only talk [before hitting the stage]; you would walk with him to the stage [while he is talking to you]. And he's drinking a Guinness on the way to the stage. I don't drink before the KK'S PRIEST shows. I don't like to talk to people. But I don't warm up. I don't do anything. I just go, [lets out a scream].' That's my warm-up. One of those. And that's just to go, 'I hope I can sing.' And then I'm done. I might not even do that, to be honest. But I just, like, clear it away. The first [KK'S PRIEST] song's my warm-up. It is 'Hellfire Thunderbolt', which is kind of a difficult starting song."

Circling back to Dio's approach to preparing for a live show, Tim said: "I love Ronnie. These stories are great. [DISTURBED's] David Draiman, you ever hear that story? David asked Ronnie [one time]… David would talk very seriously. And he would say, 'Ronnie, what do you do to warm up?' And Ronnie said, 'David, if you have to warm up, you don't have it.' But every singer is different. Singers, I think warm-up is fantastic. To me, it just tires me out. But Ronnie was great, 'cause he could just — there was nothing. [There was] no one like Ronnie."

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

Owens and Downing are joined in KK'S PRIEST by guitarist A.J. Mills (HOSTILE),bassist Tony Newton (VOODOO SIX) and drummer Sean Elg (DEATHRIDERS, CAGE).

KK'S PRIEST's first-ever U.S. headlining tour will kick off on March 7, 2024 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 has been performing tracks from the band's debut album, 2021's "Sermons Of The Sinner", plus material from KK'S PRIEST second LP, last year's "The Sinner Rides Again", as well as many a PRIEST classic thrown in for good measure.

"The Sinner Rides Again" was released last September via the Austrian rock and metal empire Napalm Records. The nine-song effort was produced and written by Downing and mixed/mastered by Jacob Hansen.

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.

Brazilian/American metallers SEPULTURA kicked off their farewell tour last night (Friday, March 1) at Arena Hall in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. The sold-out show marked the band's debut performance with new touring drummer Greyson Nekrutman (SUICIDAL TENDENCIES),who officially replaced SEPULTURA's longtime drummer Eloy Casagrande in February.

SEPULTURA's setlist for the Belo Horizonte concert was as follows:

01. Refuse/Resist
02. Territory
03. Slave New World
04. Phantom Self
05. Dusted (first time since 2016)
06. Attitude
07. Kairos
08. Means To An End
09. Cut-Throat
10. Guardians Of Earth
11. Mind War (first time since 2015)
12. False (first time since 2019)
13. Choke
14. Escape To The Void (first time since 2019)
15. Kaiowas
16. Sepulnation
17. Biotech Is Godzilla (first time since 2018)
18. Agony Of Defeat
19. Troops Of Doom
20. Arise

Encore:

21. Ratamahatta
22. Roots Bloody Roots

The 21-year-old Nekrutman is one of the most explosive young players in the drumming world, having garnered a legion of fans since bursting on to the international music scene just a few short years ago.

Greyson is featured on ALICE IN CHAINS vocalist William Duvall's "11.12.21 Live-In-Studio Nashville" CD, which came out in June 2022. Nekrutman has also performed or recorded with SUICIDAL TENDENCIES, Bakithi Kumalo, Darren Criss, Drumeo, Pearl Drums, Meinl Cymbals and has been featured in articles by Rolling Stone, Rhythm, Rhythm And Drum (Japan) and Sweetwater Music.

SEPULTURA announced Eloy's departure on February 27, explaining in a statement that he was leaving to join "another project", with some fans speculating that he will be the new drummer of SLIPKNOT.

The news of Eloy's exit from SEPULTURA came just two months after the band announced it would celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2024 by embarking on a "farewell tour" which will cover the entire globe.

In SEPULTURA's statement, the remaining bandmembers expressed their shock over Casagrande's departure, saying they were "taken by surprise" that their now-former drummer would "abandon everything related to SEPULTURA" less than a month prior to the start of the tour.

"February 6th, a few days prior to the first rehearsal, drummer Eloy Casagrande informed the band that he was leaving SEPULTURA to pursue a career in another project," they said.

"The band were taken by surprise, without prior warning, he immediately left the band, abandoning everything related to SEPULTURA.

"Luckily American virtuoso Greyson Nekrutman will take the position of Eloy Casagrande and is welcomed as the band's new drummer for the 'Celebrating Life Through Death' farewell tour."

Casagrande, who joined SEPULTURA 13 years ago as the replacement for Jean Dolabella, later took to his social media to write: "I would like to announce my departure from SEPULTURA.

"Being part of the biggest Brazilian metal band was one of the best experiences of my life. I just want to thank the band and crew members.

"It was a story of almost 13 years, in which I had the opportunity to learn and contribute with every song, show and recording. These were years of great dedication, intensity and commitment. We did 3 studio albums very well received by the critics, countless shows on 5 continents and a lot of stories to tell. So, first of all, I reiterate my thanks to SEPULTURA and the fans for everything we've been through.

"Maybe for the band's fans it doesn't make sense at this point, but decisions needed to be made thinking about new cycles that will come. We are made of choices and they are not always easy. My departure will never erase my respect and gratitude to the band.

"There is a lot to come and I hope to continue making a lot of music and art. See you on the road."

Nekrutman also commented on his addition to SEPULTURA's lineup, writing in a statement: "Today I express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible opportunity to join the legendary ranks of SEPULTURA for their farewell tour.

"To contribute to this legacy is a privilege that fills me with both honor and excitement. SEPULTURA's fearless approach to exploring new territories in the metal sphere is something that I have always admired and strived to emulate in my own musical endeavors."

He continued: "I am eagerly looking forward to adding my own spirit and passion to the mix, to connecting with the fans who have supported the band through its evolution, and to the electrifying experiences we'll create together on stage. Here's to the new chapters we'll write together, to the stages we'll conquer, and to the powerful music we'll unleash upon the world."

Confirmed "Celebrating Life Through Death" tour dates so far include shows in South America and Europe. More concerts will be announced soon.

Esses quatro caras estão ansiosos para comemorar quatro décadas do Sepultura, começando hoje à noite com um show...

Posted by Sepultura on Friday, March 1, 2024

Former Sabaton guitarist / Majestica frontman Tommy Johansson has shared his weekly cover, this time taking on the 1987 Helloween classic, "Future World". He is backed up by Majestica bandmate Petter Hjerpe. 





Johansson recentla announced his departure from Sabaton and issued the following statement:




"My dear friends! After seven glorious years of heavy metal, I have decided to step down as the guitarist of Sabaton. This has been the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my entire life.


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


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


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


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


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

The Chinese progressive metal band OU (pronunciation: “O”) is set to unleash their mesmerizing sound in their upcoming sophomore album, 蘇醒 II: Frailty, co-produced, mixed and feat. Devin Townsend.


The album will be released on April 26 via InsideOutMusic, and is available for preorder here.


Their newest track "蘇醒Frailty" describes how life unfolds, drop by drop, as a fleeting thread in the ticking dance of time. Let OU navigate you through the depths of progressive metal, offering a unique perspective on the fragility and beauty of our existence.




Stream the video ”蘇醒Frailty” below.


OU comments on the new single: "OU is back! Life unfolds, drop by drop, a fleeting thread in the ticking dance of time. A brief bloom, a withered leaf, breathing in the rhythm of day and night. The river of life, a pale countdown, flowing soil beneath the dreamy sky. Pieces fall, growing without words, returning to the dust. The flower of life bears its fruit, lost in the vast expanse. A poignant journey, from bloom to disappearance, echoing the eternal tick tock of existence. The debut offering '蘇醒 Frailty" from our new album 'OU - 蘇醒 II: Frailty' has arrived, and we're excited to share it with you all."


They add on the album announcement: “We are very excited to present our forthcoming album OU - 蘇醒 II: Frailty, due for an April 26 release via InsideOutMusic. We were honoured to have the privilege on working with the mighty Devin Townsend to produce this album in order to further explore and enhance our sound, working to provide a sonic adventure for you all.”


The album will be available in the following versions:
 •Ltd. CD Jewelcase
•Ltd. White-Black Marbled 1LP 180g Vinyl – Strictly limited to only 1000 copies worldwide
•Digital Album


Artwork by Yooowen:





Tracklisting:


“蘇醒 Frailty”
“淨化 Purge”
 “海 Ocean”
“血液 Redemption”
“衍生 Capture and Elongate (Serenity)”
“破魂 Spirit Broken”
“歪歪地愛 yyds”
“輪迴 Reborn”
“念 Recall”


“蘇醒 Frailty” video:





(Photo – Zhang Xin 張歆)

Six years since the release of the promising potential of their debut album, Legends, finally comes a new song, “Ironsides”, from Los Angeles’ progressive power metal band Novareign.


Ironsides by Novareign


“Old Ironsides is a poem written by Oliver Wendall Holmes Sr. after finding out that the USS Constitution was slated to be deconstructed and used for parts,” explains singer Icarus Marquez. “Saddened by this notion, Holmes took his poem and published it in his local newspaper. After the town read the poem, they rallied together and let the powers that be know that they all believed if the ship was to be destroyed, then it should at the very least have the opportunity to go out in battle. The power that be could not deny its people and made the repairs necessary to get it back in active duty. Centuries later, Old Ironsides is STILL in active duty to this very day. There is no limit to what we as a people can do when we rally together.”




Additionally, the ensuing live shows that followed its release including dates with Michael Schenker, Exmortus, Angra, White Wizzard, Rhapsody Ov Fire, Act of Defiance, Bonded By Blood, GloryHammer, Graveshadow, PowerGlove and Holy Grail, in addition to festivals like Mad With Power, Hyperspace, Ruinfest and Frost And Fire.


In the downtime, Novareign endured a couple of lineup changes implementing new drummer Ulises Hernandez (ex-Judicator, Our Dying World) and guitarist David Walston (ex-Helsott, Monolith), while guitarist Balmore Lemus has split his time with Judicator, Lunar and Dire Peril. On and off Novareign have been writing and recording the follow-up to Legends and a new album is expected by the end of 2024.

Anglo-Finnish progressive metallers, Wheel, are pleased to announce the release of their third studio album, Charismatic Leaders, on May 3.


The album was meticulously crafted to meet Wheel’s ever-heightening benchmarks and recording with engineers/co-producers Daniel Bergstrand and Fredrik Thordendal (Meshuggah) stretched from August to December 2023. The end result, mixed by Forrester Savell, has consolidated all the gains of what came before: singer/guitarist James Lascelles, lead guitarist Jussi Turunen and drummer Santeri Saksala’s third album represents their heaviest and most conscious music to date.


To mark the announcement, the band have launched the first single taken from the album, and you can watch the video for "Empire" below.




Vocalist & guitarist James Lascelles comments of the track: “This is probably the most metal song I have ever written - it is intense as all hell when it kicks in and it keeps finding new ways to punch you in the face all the way to the end! Santeri did an incredible job with the drum track on this one and playing it live is really going to take some work in the rehearsal room..


Lyrically, it is about media empires and the effect they have on wider society - all of us are influenced to some degree, even if we would rather not admit it. Issues that require nuance are presented as binaries and opposing views are made into caricatures - a target for us to rage at that far too often, doesn't even exist. This is not a new phenomenon by any means but it is one that seems to have been catalysed by the modern landscape of media, the internet and populist politics. As you might be able to tell from the mood of the song, this pisses me off immensely and it was cathartic to vent about it.”


Charismatic Leaders clocks in at just under 50 minutes, and will be available as a Limited CD Digipak (also featuring the Rumination EP tracks as bonus), and a Gatefold 180g LP, both featuring artwork from Lucas Mayer (Long Distance Calling, Blackout Problems). Pre-order your copy here.





Tracklisting:


"Empire"
"Porcelain"
"Submission"
"Saboteur"
"Disciple"
"Caught in the Afterglow"
"The Freeze"


"Empire" video:





The band will be celebrating the release of their new album with their first ever shows in Australia (supporting label-mates Caligula’s Horse), as well as their first ever North American headline shows. Later in the year the band will return to Europe for further headline dates, which have just been announced. Find the band's live itinerary here.


(Photo - Anastasia Korol)

UK gothic metal stars, Paradise Lost, performed at the Bizarre Festival in Cologne, Germany on August 19, 1995. The set was recorded and filmed by Rockpalast, and released as Live At Rockpalast 1995. You can now watch the full show below.


“In this hot stage of our career we never missed a party. It may sound stereotype, but my memories of the nineties are still suffering,” say singer Nick Holmes. “We were young, our fans were young. Everything was much more energetic on these days.”


Paradise Lost's setlist:




"Enchantment"
"Widow"
"Dying Freedom"
"Forever Failure"
"Shadowkings"
"Remembrance"
"Pity the Sadness"
"Sweetness"
"Once Solemn"
"Hallowed Land"
"The Last Time"
"Embers Fire"
"As I Die"
"True Belief"

American rockers, Warrant, performed at Grey Eagle Resort & Casino in Calgary, Alberta (Canada) on February 22. The band have released the recap video below, stating: "Calgary ROCKED! Always an honour to play for you. It was a pleasure working with the amazing staff and production crew - the volume was turned up to 11, and we let the good times rock!"





Warrant also played River Cree Casino in Edmonton, Alberta (Canada) on February 23. Says the band, "A big rock ‘n’ roll cheers to our Canadian Fans! Great venue, staff, and kick-ass listeners! Thank you all, we had a blast."




Watch a recap video:





Warrant performs next on March 15 at Crystal Grand Music Theatre in Wisconsin Dells, WI. Find the band's tour dates and VIP Meet & Greet packages here.

In a new interview with "Paltrocast" host Darren Paltrowitz, bassist Brian Wheat of Sacramento rockers TESLA, who celebrated their 40th anniversary in 2021, spoke about when he and his bandmates might eventually retire from performing live. He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "One thing I'm proud about TESLA, and very proud, is that we have a lot of integrity and we still sound fucking great live. And the day we don't is the day we stop. We will not be one of those bands that's out there staying past their expiration date, milking people — however you want to put it — that don't sound good. I don't wanna be one of those bands.

"When people ask me how much gas is left in the tank for TESLA, the simple answer is I don't know," he continued. "It all depends on when Jeff [Keith, TESLA vocalist] can't sing to the level he still sings at. When it's less to a point where people go, 'Oh, he doesn't sound good,' then we'll stop. And as long as we're all healthy."

"I don't think there'd be a TESLA without me, Frank [Hannon, TESLA guitarist] or Jeff. Obviously, Tommy [Skeoch, former TESLA guitarist] and Troy [Luccketta, former TESLA drummer] aren't in the band anymore, but if it wasn't the three of us, I don't think you could justify going out and calling it TESLA… Me and Frank started the band. And then Jeff was the next to join, and then Tommy and then Troy. So, yeah, the original guys from the garage, basically."

As previously reported, TESLA will return to the House Of Blues inside Mandalay Bay Resort And Casino Las Vegas in 2024 with their "Tesla: The Las Vegas Takeover". Shows will be held on April 5, 6, 10, 12 and 13, 2024, and are scheduled to begin at 8:30 p.m.

In August 2022, TESLA released a standalone single, "Time To Rock!" A year earlier, the band issued another new track called "Cold Blue Steel".

In September 2023, TESLA released the official music video for its cover of AEROSMITH's "S.O.S. (Too Bad)". The song is a bonus track on TESLA's live album, "Full Throttle Live!", which arrived in May 2023. The LP includes the band's "Time To Rock!" single, plus other songs, all recorded in August 2022 at Full Throttle Saloon in Sturgis, South Dakota.

In September 2021, Luccketta announced that he would "take a little time from the road" to spend with family and friends. He has since been replaced at TESLA's gigs by Steve Brown, the younger brother of former DOKKEN drummer Mick Brown.

TESLA's debut album, 1986's "Mechanical Resonance", went platinum on the strength of the hits "Modern Day Cowboy" and "Little Suzi". The 1989 follow-up album, "The Great Radio Controversy", produced five hits, including "Heaven's Trail (No Way Out)" and "Love Song", which hit the pop Top Ten.

METALLICA is among the artists who will perform in honor of Elton John and Bernie Taupin as they receive the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song on Wednesday, March 20.

The invitation-only event, which will include appearances by John and Taupin, will be hosted by Billy Porter.

METALLICA said: "We are beyond excited and proud to have been invited to perform at a very special event honoring the legendary songwriting team of Elton John and Bernie Taupin as they are presented with the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song.

"We are traveling to Washington, DC, next month to join Garth Brooks, Annie Lennox, Brandi Carlile, Maren Morris, and others for the tribute concert and award presentation on March 20. PBS stations nationwide will premiere the concert on Monday, April 8, at 8 PM ET (check local listings),available via broadcast and streaming on PBS.org and the PBS app.

"Elton and Bernie have been collaborating for 56 years and counting, and together, they have penned some of our lifetime's most memorable and influential songs. We are thrilled to celebrate this honor with them, and we look forward to an incredible evening of unique performances from their remarkable collection of songs."

The 90-minute program "Elton John & Bernie Taupin: The Library Of Congress Gershwin Prize For Popular Song" honors the longtime singer-songwriter duo as the two iconic artists receive this year's distinguished recognition from the Library of Congress.

"Our long-standing partnership with the Library of Congress illuminates the incredible contributions made by exceptional songwriters and performers," said Sharon Percy Rockefeller, president and CEO of WETA. "Our viewers can anticipate a delightful evening celebrating Elton John and Bernie Taupin's songwriting partnership and the duo's influence on the music industry for nearly six decades. We are excited to honor these collaborators' extraordinary contributions to popular music."

"Elton John and Bernie Taupin have written some of the most memorable songs of our lives. Their careers stand out for the quality and broad appeal of their music and their influence on their fellow artists," said Carla Hayden, the Librarian of Congress. "More than 50 years ago, they came from across the pond to win over Americans and audiences worldwide with their beautiful songs and rock anthems. We're proud to join PBS viewers in honoring Elton and Bernie with the Gershwin Prize for their incredible impact on generations of music lovers."

"We are very proud of our partnership with the Library of Congress to share the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song," said Paula Kerger, president and CEO of PBS. "As America's largest stage for the performing arts, we are thrilled to give people once again a front-row seat to this extraordinary show and to spotlight the exceptional artists paying tribute to the legendary Elton John and Bernie Taupin."

"CPB is proud to support the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song and this year's honorees, Elton John and Bernie Taupin," said Patricia Harrison, president and CEO of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. "In his Emmy-winning performance last year at Dodger Stadium, Elton John said, 'I became successful first in America, so I want to thank you for that. Without America, I wouldn't be here. Thank you for all the years of love, generosity, and loyalty.' We are all grateful that Elton John and Bernie Taupin shared their gift with America and the world. Their songs have been part of our lives. Congratulations."

"The history of contemporary popular music has been enriched for over a half-century because of these two remarkable artists who saw the value of utilizing their respective strengths in marrying great lyrics and incredible melodies together," remarked Ken Ehrlich, founder and president of Ken Ehrlich Productions. "Their legacy contains some of the most resonant songs of any generation, and to honor them with the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song will result in a remarkable live event and exciting PBS show. I can't wait to put this on the stage and the screen this spring."

Recording artist Elton John and lyricist Bernie Taupin joined creative forces in 1967 and went on to pen timeless standards such as "Your Song", "Tiny Dancer", "Rocket Man", "Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me" and "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road". In addition to ballads, the duo created sensational rock hits, including "Bennie And The Jets" and "Crocodile Rock", which became their first No. 1 single in the U.S. in 1973.

Today, John is among the top-selling solo artists of all time, with over 70 Top 40 hits over six decades, including nine No. 1s and 28 Top 10s on the Billboard Hot 100. He has sold more than 300 million records worldwide. John holds the record for the biggest-selling physical single of all time with Taupin's rewritten lyrics for "Candle In The Wind 1997", which sold more than 33 million copies after the sudden death of Princess Diana. In 2018, he was named the most successful male solo artist in Billboard Hot 100 chart history. In America, John holds the record for the longest span between Billboard Top 40 hits at 50 years.

In 1992, John established the Elton John AIDS Foundation, which continues to lead the global fight against HIV/AIDS. The foundation has raised more than $565 million for HIV/AIDS grants that have funded more than 3,000 projects in more than 90 countries to care for patients and provide education for AIDS prevention. His music and charitable service have been honored with a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II; the Légion d'honneur, France's highest award; and the National Humanities Medal awarded by President Joe Biden at the White House in 2022.

Since launching his first tour in 1970, John has delivered more than 4,000 performances in more than 80 countries. His work has spanned recording studios, stadiums, stages, and screens — always with music that resonates with new generations of audiences. Disney's "The Lion King", carried by John's tunes, continues to be one of Broadway's longest-running shows.

In January 2024, John won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety Special for his show "Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium", making him just the 19th performer to achieve rare EGOT status, having also won five Grammy awards, two Oscars for his work on "The Lion King" and with Taupin on the movie "Rocketman", and a Tony Award for the score to the Broadway musical "Aida".
We are beyond excited and proud to perform at next month’s presentation of the @librarycongress#GershwinPrize for Popular Song, honoring Elton John & Bernie Taupin!

PBS stations nationwide will premiere the concert on Monday, April 8. Learn more at https://t.co/U5Gi8dJskh. pic.twitter.com/ZRxo0pviMD

— Metallica (@Metallica) February 28, 2024

UK death metallers Ingested drops their latest single, "Pantheon," upon the masses today. The brutalizing new hymn comes by way of the band's latest full-length, The Tide Of Death And Fractured Dreams, set for release on April 5 via Metal Blade Records.


Not many top-tier death metal bands can record and release an album a year and follow it with an extensive tour. That's hardly ever been the case for Manchester, England's crushing, visceral Ingested. Since the release of their fifth album, 2020's Where Only God May Tread, the band has been on a creative tear that has produced almost a full record every year - even through the COVID-19 pandemic - but has resulted in the kind of musical growth that only comes from constantly practicing, playing, and writing.


The band's latest output, The Tide Of Death And Fractured Dreams, is not only as innovative and brutal as their last disc - the bleak, firestorm Ashes Lie Still - it showcases a band willing to expand its creativity without sacrificing the ferocity that made it one of the most impressively destructive, technical death metal bands on the scene. The Tide Of Death And Fractured Dreams is proof that once Ingested sniffs out a trail of musical blood, they ravenously follow it until they've uncovered a festering feast.




Produced by the band with the guidance of recording engineer Nico Beninato, the record includes a guest appearance by Chimaira's Mark Hunter who provides guest vocals for the track "In Nothingness" and Sylosis singer Josh Middleton who contributes to "Expect To Fail," as well as the striking cover art of David Seidman.


Whether pummelling listeners with double-bass rolls, blast-beats, and grinding rhythm; breaking it all down with jagged, staggered riffs, and piercing harmonics; or flooding the mix with rapid-fire bursts of minor key melodies, Ingested has injected all of their experience, skill, and artistry into the ten trenchant new songs on The Tide Of Death And Fractured Dreams. Where the new album differs from its predecessor isn't in its brutality or melodicism, it's in the songwriting and the way the tunes flow together in a way that's vicious, but not morose.


"Ashes… was constructed in the COVID period, and the mood of that album definitely reflects that time," the band notes, "With The Tide Of Death And Fractured Dreams, we wanted to bring the energy up a bit. As much as we like what we did with Ashes…, its depressive tone isn't something we wanted to continue to explore quite as much. There are definitely some dark moments on …Tide…, but for the most part, we took a more upbeat approach to the songs this time round."





The Tide Of Death And Fractured Dreams will be released on CD, digitally, and LP in the following color variants:


- Pulverised Viridian (US)
- Wounded Scarlet (US)
- Sapphire Shards (EU)
- Empty Crimson (EU - ltd. 500)
- Shattered Harlequin (EU - ltd. 500)


Find pre-order options here.





Following the release of The Tide Of Death And Fractured Dreams, Ingested will embark upon a European headlining tour with support provided by Fallujah, Vulvodynia, and Mélancolia.





The Tide Of Death And Fractured Dreams tracklisting:


"Paragon Of Purity"
"Endless Machine"
"Where No Light Shines"
"Expect To Fail" (feat. Josh Middleton of Sylosis)
"Starve The Fire"
"Numinous"
"In Nothingness" (feat. Mark Hunter of Chimaira)
"Pantheon"
"Kingdoms Of Sand"
"A Path Once Lost"


"Pantheon" video:





"Paragon Of Purity" video:





Lineup:


Jason Evans - vocals
Sean Hynes - guitars, backing vocals
Lyn Jeffs - drums


(Photo - Eduardo Ruiz)

Swedish death metallers Feared, led by The Haunted guitarist Ola Englund and featuring Mario Santos Ramos on vocals, recently released their first single in seven years. The new song, "Song Of The Dead", was produced by Jocke Skog (Clawfinger), and is available through all streaming platforms now. 


Englund has posted a playthrough video of the track, complete with TAB for guitarists to play along with.







Englund says: “Tuning is standard E on 7-string. But you can also play this on a 6 string tuned to B standard.”


Says Ola: "We’re finally, after a lot of years, ready to continue the journey of the band Feared, and we’re going back to basics in the style of how Mario and I wrote songs in the beginning. I don’t know why it took this long for us to get something out, but maybe we were waiting for the right song. Me and Mario have already worked out at least 6 more songs so expect more in the future. As for now, we just wanted to release something to keep it alive. 7 years is too long of a wait…





"In regards of mixing, Jocke Skog (engineer) was the obvious choice for this song. He understands the band, having played in Feared several times live and tracking bass on a couple of the previous albums."





A 7" vinyl edition of "Song Of The Dead" is available here.





Feared's previous release in 2017 was the album Svart, produced and mixed by Mark Lewis (Megadeth, Cannibal Corpse, Whitechapel).

In the video below, guitarist Gus G. unboxes the new Firewind album Stand United. Watch below:





Firewind recently released a new single, "Fallen Angel", to be featured on their new studio album, Stand United, out March 1 via AFM. Guitarist / founder Gus G. has shared a guitar solo playthrough and breakdown below. 







"'Fallen Angel' is a song about the eternal battle between good and evil, a song about the temptations of life," says Gus G. "There's been so many interpretations of all this. Working again with director Rainer 'ZIPP' Franze, we gave a biblical touch on the visuals and there's even some choreography going on, for your viewing pleasure. Musically, I feel there's a good balance of modern and classic metal elements which is where  Firewind should be in 2024."





Stand United will be available as CD, LP Vinyl, digital formats and highly collectable bundles including an autographed card, a Firewind cat patch plus a ticket for the band's upcoming European tour with Masterplan (see all dates listed below). For every ticket bundle purchase, fans will also get the chance to win a Meet & Greet. The album pre-sale is underway here.


For more than twenty years, Firewind have enthralled heavy music fans with their exciting blend of hard rock and power metal. Razor-sharp riffs by guitar legend Gus G (Ozzy Osbourne, Arch Enemy, Dream Evil), big hooks and solos meet the incredible vocal skills of charismatic singer Herbie Langhans (Avantasia, Radiant, Seventh Avenue, amongst others), who joined the band in 2019.


Their new offering, Stand United, features nine brand new songs produced with Dennis Ward (Magnum, Unisonic), as well as a cover of the 80s pop rock classic "Talking in Your Sleep", originally recorded by The Romantics but giving it a metal twist in the style of Firewind.


Their forthcoming, tenth studio album also bears testament to the band's sheer enthusiasm and lyrical topics that could not be more relevant. “I wouldn’t exactly call Stand United a classic concept album, but the album title indicates what we’re about thematically,” explains Gus G, who has also contributed with more lyric ideas on this one than any album before. “This world seems to be getting more and more out of balance, what with environmental disasters, the pandemic, the wars currently raging all over the globe. In such times, it’s more important than ever for mankind to stand close together instead of fighting each other. That’s what Stand United is about!”


This basic idea is also reflected in the cover artwork courtesy of Costin Chioreanu (Grave, Mayhem, among others). Says Gus: “I always loved the artwork of our debut album, which was based on a real hand painting. With Stand United being our tenth album, I wanted an equally authentic template and that’s how I came across Costin. The collage of faces on the cover represent war, greed, betrayal, but also love and unity, which are some of the album’s lyrical themes. I’m just as proud of the artwork as I am of the songs on our new album!”





Stand United tracklisting:


"Salvation Day"
"Stand United"
"Destiny Is Calling"
"The Power Lies Within"
"Come Undone"
"Fallen Angel"
"Chains"
"Land Of Chaos"
"Talking In Your Sleep"
"Days Of Grace"


"Come Undone" lyric video:





"Salvation Day" video:





Firewind is:


Gus G. (guitars)
Herbie Langhans (vocals)
Petros Christo (bass)
Jo Nunez (drums)

SiriusXM’s Mark Strigl recently sat down with Zakk Wylde of Black Label Society on SiriusXM’s Ozzy’s Boneyard.


Wylde recalled that while working on Osbourne's Ozzmosis album, he received a phone call from Axl Rose, asking if he "wanted to get together and jam." Wylde then called Slash, who confirmed that his name had come up when the band was discussing who they wanted to try playing with. Wylde reveals how jamming with Guns N’ Roses ultimately led to the formation of Black Label Society.


Transcription below by SiriusXM’s Ozzy’s Boneyard:




Mark Strigl: "There’s stories about you doing a jam with the guys in Guns N' Roses and that there was even talk of you possibly joining that band at some point. What's the truth?"


Zakk Wylde: "I would jam with the guys for a bit. It was when we were doing Ozzmosis out here in New York because I've known Slash when I first joined Ozzy, he came over to the hotel room. We got hammered and everything like that and it was just when Appetite was exploding, and I'd met, you know, Duff a couple times, then Steven and stuff like that. Never met Izzy and I had never met Axl, but I remember when we were out here jamming, so that was like '95. Axl called me up and he was just like, 'Hey Zakk, it's Axl.' I was like, 'Hey, what's going on man?' He just goes, 'I was just wondering you want to get together and jam with me and the fellas because I was asking, you know, Slash. I was like, well, who would you want to get to jam with? and you know, he goes, 'Your name came up because we were all talking about why don't we give Zakk a call,' or whatever and I was like, Yeah, of course man.' You know, because obviously I love, the guys are great guys and an amazing band, so we were jamming stuff at this rehearsal place that they had. We were jamming there for a while, just jamming ideas, and then we were gonna go do some stuff over at Duff's house, and then, you know, nothing was kind of happening, like, are we gonna do this or what, because I need to save up for pizza money and a soda pop to take out my girlfriend. You know what mean?"


Mark Strigl: "You weren't just jamming songs. It sounds like you were coming up with ideas."


Zakk Wylde: "Yeah. Riffs and everything like that, so I just, you know, we had all these riffs laying around and I was just like, nothing was happening, then Oz was like, 'Zakk, I can't be sitting around waiting.' You know, because it was after we did Ozzmosis and everything like that, he was like, 'I'm getting ready to tour,' whatever and I mean, without Ozzy there, I wouldn't even be in a conversation with Guns N' Roses, you know what I mean? Because I owe everything to Oz, so the Guns thing was just lying dormant, you know, just nothing was happening and I was like, 'I need to raise some pizza money and soda pop money for my girlfriend, Barbaranne,' so that's when Black Label Society was born."


Mark Strigl: "Wow, okay."


Zakk Wylde: "So, that's the reason why."


Mark Strigl: "Wow. I've never heard that angle. That's amazing."


Zakk Wylde: "Yeah, you know, so that's the reason. I had to get pizza money for my girlfriend."


Find the episode here.





(Photos - @berzerkusfest)

The 2024 edition of the 70000 Tons Of Metal festival sailed January 29 to February 2 from Miami, Florida to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic and back, on board the luxury passenger vessel Freedom Of The Seas.


Organizers have released the Day 2 Recap video below, stating: The construction of the Pool Deck stage is complete, and is now primed to host electrifying concerts! This magnificent structure is The World’s Biggest Open Air Stage structure to sail the Open Seas, and is the Crown Jewel of 70000 Tons Of Metal. The Pool Deck stage was ready for Day 2 performances thanks to the efforts of a dedicated crew of over 100 staff members working tirelessly through the night. Enjoying the warm Caribbean sun while watching your favorite metal bands perform is truly unbeatable. Sailors can rock out on the Pool Deck knowing they are safe from UV rays thanks to the Pool Girls and Pool Boys, our international ambassadors of Heavy Metal, who offer sunscreen for protection.


Day 2 of 70000 Tons Of Metal 2024 is packed with meet and greets, giving Sailors the chance to interact with all 60+ artists on board. Sailors bring a variety of merchandise, including CDs, vinyl albums, flags, and more, for their Heavy Metal heroes to sign. There were also several Artist Clinics and events hosted during the day including Alexander Krull of Leaves' Eyes hosting a very special History of Vikings Showcase!"







Watch the Day 1 recap video below:





Watch a Pre-Cruise Parties recap video:





With the recent completion of the 2024 edition of the 70000 Tons Of Metal festival, details of next year's cruise have emerged.


Sailors, brace yourselves for another epic voyage! The 2025 edition of 70000 Tons Of Metal, The Original, The World's Biggest Heavy Metal Cruise, will take us back to an absolute fan-favorite port that hasn't been visited in a decade - Ocho Rios, Jamaica! Taking place January 30 – February 3, 2025.





60 Bands, 4 Days, 1 Cruise Ship, and only 3000 Tickets. This is 70000 Tons Of Metal, The Original, The World’s Biggest Heavy Metal Cruise!


On 70000 Tons Of Metal you get unrestricted festival access to all 120 live shows on board, 70000 Tons Of Karaoke until sunrise, Jamming In International Waters – the Official 70000 Tons Of Metal All Star Jam which writes heavy metal history every year, clinics and work-shops with the musicians, our infamous belly flop contest, shore excursions with your favorite artists, and much more!


Everyone on board is a VIP, we don’t have assigned seating (this is a heavy metal cruise after all), and most importantly the bars on our ship never close – you heard us, bars that never close!


On this life changing adventure you will spend five days and four nights at sea mingling side-by-side with your favorite artists in this incredibly fan-friendly scenario that has no comparison. It’s like having an All-Access backstage pass!


Visit 70000Tons.com or the official 70000 Tons Of Metal Facebook page for further details.

In the new video below from AXS TV, Sammy Hagar drops by the unique concert hall, Mountain Winery, in Saratoga, California to sit down with ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons to talk rock and roll, followed by an intimate blues performance.





Fender has released the video below, stating: "Introducing Billy F Gibbons and the BFG's: Matt Sweeney, Danielle Haim and Tim Montana. This all-star crew is sending it back to the 70s with a groovy cover of 'Baby What You Want Me To Do' by Jimmy Reed - featuring the Vintera II Series."

Dropping their debut self-titled EP today, Ottawa, Canada's Marble Ghosts are presenting their latest video for their track "False Heroes" – premiered exclusively through BraveWords, the second to last song on the release that is a sludgy verse mixed with a towering harmony-laced chorus and a powerful, thundering instrumental end.


Lyrically, "False Heroes" is aimed at the institutions of old and those who continue to prop them up. Originally titled Marble Ghosts, the name was changed when the band realized that it was the perfect name for the band itself.


They explain further about the song:




"In the current culture, where some believe we should return to a golden past, ‘False Heroes’ counters that with a resounding NO. The song seeks to eviscerate male privilege, divisive hateful religious figures, but most of all, the ghosts of the past, still seen as trailblazers and nation builders. Inspired by the dismantling of controversial statutes worldwide, but specifically, the downing of the statue of John A. MacDonald, Canada’s first PM and the architect of the residential school system, ‘False Heroes’ is a warning against romanticizing and celebrating figures whose mindsets were at their core harmful and led in many cases to abusive and criminal acts."





Recently emerging onto the Canadian metal scene with a distinctive sound and a fierce commitment to challenging societal norms, Marble Ghosts comprises a dynamic lineup that uniquely blends genres and generations, featuring a death metal drummer, an old-school metal bassist, a grunge-influenced singer, and a metalcore guitar player. This eclectic mix not only defines their sound but also underscores the band's commitment to breaking musical boundaries.


Despite being a relatively new band, Marble Ghosts demonstrates a clear musical direction. Their first EP showcases five compelling songs that highlight their diverse influences and styles. As a band, they embrace generational differences, allowing their music to evolve organically as they grow more comfortable with each other.


Explaining the origin of their band name, Marble Ghosts draws inspiration from historical figures revered by some as pioneers and trailblazers but who also committed terrible crimes. The band seeks to call out the tradition that these effigies represent. Their music is recommended for fans of Shinedown, Saint Asonia, and Three Days Grace.


Purchase the EP on Bandcamp.





Tracklisting:


“Old School”
“Lie To Me”
“Alone”
“False Heroes”
“End Of The World”


(Photo – Lisa Thompson (Dark Moon Productions))

Def Leppard are sharing more footage from their 2022 Whisky A Go Go concert. The band recently brought the full set exclusively to their YouTube channel for 24 hours only. Although the full clip has now been removed, the band have been rolling out individual videos from the show.


You can now watch Def Leppard perform "Photograph" in this just released video:







Watch more footage from the concert below:






































Def Leppard and Journey are teaming up for the Summer Stadium Tour 2024 with Steve Miller Band, Heart, and Cheap Trick. The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame icons are once again coming together for a night of hits.


General tickets for all dates are on sale  here.





Tour dates:


July
6 - St. Louis, MO - Busch Stadium ^
10 - Orlando, FL - Camping World Stadium ^
13 - Atlanta, GA - Truist Park *
15 - Chicago, IL - Wrigley Field *
18 - Detroit, MI - Comerica Park *
20 - Nashville, TN - Nissan Stadium *
23 - Philadelphia, PA - Citizens Bank Park *
25 - Hershey, PA - Hersheypark Stadium *
27 - Pittsburgh, PA - PNC Park *
30 - Cleveland, OH - Progressive Field +


August
2 - Toronto, ON - Rogers Centre +
5 - Boston, MA - Fenway Park +
7 - Flushing, NY - Citi Field *
12 - Arlington, TX - Globe Life Field *
14 - Houston, TX - Minute Maid Park *
16 - San Antonio, TX - Alamodome *
19 - Minneapolis, MN - Target Field *
23 - Phoenix, AZ - Chase Field *
25 - Los Angeles, CA - SoFi Stadium *
28 - San Francisco, CA - Oracle Park *
30 - San Diego, CA - Petco Park *


September
4 - Seattle, WA - T-Mobile Park ^
8 - Denver, CO - Coors Field ^


* with Steve Miller Band
^ with Cheap Trick
+ with Heart

Stringjoy has announced the Mark Morton signature string set. Designed in close collaboration with LAMB OF GOD guitarist Mark Morton, these strings will deliver unparalleled performance and tone from the studio to the stage.

Engineered with precision and care, each string boasts optimal tension, clarity, and durability, ensuring your riffs cut through the mix precisely and powerfully. From blistering solos to bone-crushing rhythms, these strings excel in every musical scenario.

All Stringjoy strings are engineered to deliver:

* Maximum output
* Longer lifespan
* Smoother playability
* Better tuning stability

Crafted with the highest quality materials and expert craftsmanship, Stringjoy's Mark Morton signature string set is the ultimate choice for guitarists seeking uncompromising tone and reliability.

With this product, Mark explored several different combinations of string material and gauges before settling on this Nickel Wound 9.5-50 signature set, which proved to be the perfect combination of tonality and playability for Mark's style.

Stringjoy president Scott Marquart said: "We couldn't be more excited to work with Mark to launch our first artist signature guitar string set. I think players that give this set a try will immediately see what Mark loves so much about it — excellent playability on the top end, coupled with plenty of power on the bottom end and a consistent balanced tone that's at home for blues solos as it is for metal riffs."

Watch the launch video below.

Marking 10 years in business in 2024, Stringjoy is a guitar string manufacturer based in Nashville, Tennessee. Through innovative designs, first rate materials, and labor-intensive winding techniques, they make it their mission to craft the finest strings in the world, bar none.

Judas Priest will release their new album, Invincible Shield, on March 8 via Sony Music.


In a new interview with Greg Prato for Ultimate Guitar, Priest guitarist, Richie Faulkner, discusses discuss the album's creation, and what he prefers gear-wise. An excerpt follows...


Ultimate Guitar: How did you approach Invincible Shield from a guitar perspective?




Richie Faulkner: "The same way as always really, you sit down with the guitar, and the guitar is kind of like a conduit. The guitar brings riffs and stuff out of you. Pretty organically really, you just sit down, sometimes you might be in the living room or the kitchen and you get this idea. Other times, you sit down with a guitar and you're jamming around and things jump out of it. You find these little riffs and stuff that you embellish and, 'That sounds like an intro' or 'That sounds like a chorus.' And then you get melodies that go on top of that.


"And then what we do, we get together the three of us, Rob, Glenn [Tipton], and myself, put those ideas together, and see if any of them stick together. Or I might have a riff, Glenn has a riff that goes together with that, and we need a chorus. So, we'll come up with a chorus together. From a guitar point of view, that's the conduit, that's what pulls a lot of riffs out. Even if I've got something in my head first, the guitar will make that real, and then I can build on it from there."


Ultimate Guitar: How did the idea come about to re-introduce guitar synthesizers into Priest? I always associate guitar synthesizers and Priest with the "Turbo" album.


Faulkner: "It's actually not a guitar synth. It's an actual synth, like a keyboard. You're right though, the flavor of a synth, with things like 'Turbo', when that idea came up, it was valid because of the groundwork that Priest laid down in the past. I came up with that intro and did a synth version of it, and it grew from there. You put an idea down and things grow. I just thought it was appropriate. It sounded right as a synth and it fit in with the history of things. So, we went with it."


Ultimate Guitar: Which songs are you most proud of guitar-wise?


Faulkner: "I think the title track has got a lot of stuff in it. It's got a lot of riffage in it. So, I'm proud of that one in that sense. It's got a lot of stuff going on, a lot of interesting guitar parts, and the solo section is its own little section. I was going for a Randy Rhoads-style flavor. But all of them for different reasons. You put a lot of work into each song, both individually and as a writing team, to get them as good as they can be.


"'Panic Attack', 'Trial By Fire' is a bit of a different rhythm on the guitar, the title track, 'The Serpent And The King.' And you've got to be proud of them, otherwise there's no point in releasing songs or a record.' 'Firepower' was a well-received record, and if we're not 1,000% behind what we're doing as a band and as musicians on this, there's no point in releasing it."


Read more at Ultimate-Guitar.com.


There will be a global album listening party for Judas Priest's latest metal masterpiece, Invincible Shield, on Thursday, March 7 at various metal bars in 30 cities around the world. See list below - and check your local metal bar for exact time and details, many of which will also be offering giveaways and custom Judas Priest-themed cocktails for their event.


If you live near Daytona Beach, you will be able to experience a special Judas Priest pop-up shop on Saturday, March 9 from 3-5 PM at Atlantic Sounds, which will be operating out of a custom Judas Priest military combat truck – “an invincible shield on wheels” – playing the album to the 500K+ attendees at Daytona Bike Week.  Harley Davidson will be leading a 100-biker brigade from Orlando to Daytona at 9 AM, ET.





Fans can also find the truck and brigade at the Daytona International Speedway for a special parade lap at 12 PM, ET before the Daytona 200. Come celebrate the release of Invincible Shield with your fellow headbangers!





Invincible Shield listening parties happening at these fine metal bars:


Aachen, Germany - Schlüsselloch
Atlanta, GA - Boggs Social
Augsburg, Germany - Spectrum
Austin, TX - The Lost Well
Bangor, ME - Geno’s Rock Club
Berlin, Germany – Halford
Brooklyn, NY - Rocka Rolla
Buenos Aires, Argentina – Strummer Bar
Chicago, IL - Liar’s Club
Denver, CO – Trve Brewing
Houston, TX - Brash Brewing
Indianapolis, IN - Black Circle
London, UK - The Black Heart
Los Angeles, CA - Rainbow Bar & Grill
Magdeburg, Germany - Flowerpower
Mepen, Germany - Alte Wäscherei
Milan, Italy - Headbanger’s Pub
Montreal, QC - Mutoïde Microbrasserie
Nersingen, Germany - Rocks
Orlando, FL - Dirty Laundry
Paris, France - Dr. Feelgood’s
Providence, RI - The Scurvy Dog
Richmond, VA - Cobra Cabana
San Antonio, TX - Bonds 007
St. Louis, MO - Headless Bat
Stockholm, Sweden - Garlic & Shots
Toronto, ON - Bovine Sex Club
Uetze, Germany (Hanover) - Farmer’s Inn
Vienna, Austria - U4 Club
Washington, DC - Slash Run


Invincible Shield, out March 8 via Sony Music, can be pre-ordered here.





Tracklisting:


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


"The Serpent And The King" video:





"The Serpent And The King" lyric video:





"Crown Of Horns" video:





"Panic Attack" video:





"Trial By Fire" video:





Invincible Shield album trailer:





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


Tour dates:


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


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


* Not a Live Nation Date
^ Festival Performance


(Photo - James Hodges Photography)

Never Obey Again has released a visualizer video for "Take Care Of You", seventh single taken from the debut album The End Of An Era released in September 2023 by Scarlet Records.





Never Obey Again is a female-fronted 5-piece project from Italy that blends heavy sounds and modern electronic elements to create fascinating sound scenarios. The End Of An Era combines dramatic and introspective melodies, heavy precise riffs and layers of electronic landscapes which create the perfect scenario to welcome the powerful voice of charismatic frontwoman Carolina.




The Never Obey Again debut album represents the purest and deepest needing of an artistic expression of five experienced musicians who found their own space in this piece of work; the record felt like it was created by itself as every little idea fell perfectly into place at first attempt.


The main goal of The End Of An Era is dragging the listeners into experiencing the song and allowing them to wear the lyrics and the atmosphere of every single track on their own skin.


The End Of An Era is available in the following formats:


- digipack CD
- digital


Order at scarletrecords.it.





"Wake Up" video:





Never Obey Again are:


Carolina Bertelegni - vocals
Alessandro Tuvo - guitar
Alex Pedrotti - guitar
Cristiano Trappoli - bass
Matteo Malchiodi - batteria


(Photo - Gabriele Vinciguerra)

ADEMA has parted ways with its latest singer, Ryan Shuck, who joined the group in 2019.

Earlier today (Tuesday, February 27),Shuck released the following statement via social media: "My time in ADEMA has abruptly come to an end.

"I want to thank the friends and fans who supported us during my time in the band - over 4 years, 100's of shows, and 2 successful singles. I am beyond grateful for you.

"I will not be joining the band for the upcoming Josie Scott tour or any of the festivals we have booked so far this year. I'll see many of you on The Neon Chronicles Tour w JULIEN-K, PRIEST, and SEPTEMBER MOURNING in APRIL, and again, thank you to any ADEMA fans that supported us and accepted me as the singer for the band. I will forever appreciate you."

A short time later, the remaining members of ADEMA — Tim Fluckey (guitar),Dave DeRoo (bass),Kris Kohls (drums) and Mike Ransom (rhythm guitar) — posted the following message on social media: "ADEMA has made the decision to move forward without Ryan Shuck. Our plan is to continue on indefinitely as a four-piece, and we sincerely wish Ryan all the best in the future.

"We want you to know that in no way will this hinder or impede any of our current or future plans, and that the ultimate deciding factor in our decision was what would be best for you - our fans.

"Thanks for your understanding and we can’t wait to see you on the road this summer!!!"

Back in January 2023, Shuck told the "Nothing Shocking Podcast" about the progress of the songwriting sessions for ADEMA's upcoming studio album: "We are all from the same fucking town. We all grew up like this. We all grew up partying together. We all played together. We all come from the same shit. We need to think back and think about what made this so special. We need to recapture the vibe that we had. That doesn't mean ripping off the old music, but it will mean that the new album is gonna sound like it came after album two [2003's 'Unstable']. And I think with the new songs, people are getting that. We're really going back to the roots of what made ADEMA special."

Ryan also spoke in more detail about the ADEMA songwriting process, saying: "The way I look at it is I have this gift… I can literally just look at those guys and go, 'Hey…' I hear Tim [Fluckey, guitar] do a riff, and I go, 'Fuck, man.' All I have to do is have Mike Ransom play an awesome corresponding part or melody. All of a sudden, it sounds like ADEMA. It's incredible. And then you get Dave and Kris doing what they do. You get Dave's melodic kind of bass playing that is completely unique to Dave. Then you get Kris, who's the most unique drummer I've ever played with; his completely left-brained, weird, really interesting drums. [Producer] Amir [Derakh] and I start laughing when we look at each other. We're, like, 'Oh my God. It sounds like ADEMA. It's so cool.' 'Cause we're fans too. When you get to hear these dudes play together and it sounds like the band that you dig, and when you make them do the things that you know they're the best at, this magic happens. And so I just get excited."

He continued: "Bands are always struggling to do something new and grow and keep themselves interested, but as producers and kind of co-songwriters, you have to go, 'Guys, remember, you're you. You're fucking Tim Fluckey. Just do that riff the way that you do it.' And then they start doing it, and you're, like, 'Oh my God. This is magic. These guys are magic.' So in that way, it's sort of a relief because all I have to do is get ADEMA to do what they do best. And then I've gotta make sure that I don't let the music down and the fans down by making sure the vocals are gonna be fitting the music and they're gonna be right for what the brand and what the story has always been for that band. And it's not that difficult because I am part of that story."

In June 2022, ADEMA released a new song, "Violent Principles". It was the follow-up to ADEMA's first single in nearly a decade, "Ready To Die", which came out in August 2021. Both tracks were planned for inclusion on ADEMA's upcoming album, which was tentatively titled "360 Degrees Of Separation".

In August 2022, Shuck told the "J-Bunny's Music Hub Podcast" that there was "not a chance" of ADEMA ever working with original frontman Marky Chavez again. "I own this," he said. "There's no option for that. No, not at all. I tried to put it together with Marky. That's how I ended up accidentally offering, or accepting, their kind of plea for some, 'Hey, will you come in and sing for us for a tour?' And it just turned out so well that I kept doing it. No, there's no chance [of Chavez returning to the band]," Ryan repeated. " Unfortunately, Marky's jumped in, told them that he's gonna do it and then he's jumped out and pulled the plug on too many big tours, on too many good things, and it's damped the band so badly. Marky's really not been a great person and hasn't really respected the art and the fans and the band, and obviously isn't doing it anymore at all — you know, just doesn't seem to care."

Chavez originally left ADEMA in 2004 due to "creative differences" after two successful albums, "Adema" and "Unstable". The singer — who is the half brother of KORN frontman Jonathan Davis — quit ADEMA again in January 2011 in order to pursue his "solo project." He rejoined the group again six years later and played his first comeback show with ADEMA in May 2017 at the Whisky A Go Go in West Hollywood, California.

After Chavez's original exit from ADEMA, the other members of the band found their way with new lead singers Luke Caraccioli and later Bobby Reeves, while Mark founded MIDNIGHT PANIC with his cousin Peter Shubert. He also produced fellow artists.

ADEMA's last full-length release was 2013's "Topple The Giants". The group's first CD since 2007's "Kill The Headlights" contained brand new tracks plus re-worked versions of ADEMA's chart-topping hits "Giving In" and "Unstable".

My time in Adema has abruptly come to an end.

I want to thank the friends and fans who supported us during my time in...

Posted by Ryan Shuck on Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Adema Family and Friends -

Adema has made the decision to move forward without Ryan Shuck. Our plan is to continue on...

Posted by Adema on Tuesday, February 27, 2024

The musical evolvement of Hamburg sleaze rockers Night Laser is evident on every note of their forthcoming studio album, Call Me What You Want, due out May 24, 2024 via Steamhammer/SPV.


Combining the experience gained from their three previous albums, Fight For The Night (2014), Laserhead (2017), and Power To Power (2020), and more than two hundred concerts, the heavy glam five-piece celebrate this announcement with the album's first single, "Bittersweet Dreams." The track is accompanied by a new music video.


Call Me What You Want is Night Laser's most powerful and multi-faceted studio production to date. A collaborative effort between band founders and brothers Benno (vocals) and Robert Hankers (bass), new additions Felipe Zapata Martinez, Vincent Hadeler (both guitar) and drummer Ingemar Oswald, producer Dirk Schlächter (Gamma Ray, Ross The Boss) and mixing/mastering pundit Eike Freese (Deep Purple, Helloween, Simple Minds, among others). 




While there are many reasons this new album impresses, the band is especially proud of the teamwork that went into Call Me What You Want.


Bassist Robert Hankers enthuses:


“In contrast to our previous releases, this time we threw the ideas and visions of everyone involved together, mixed all the different components, and then brought out the best in every one of us at the studio. This has made the material even more versatile and multi-faceted. In our case, it was really helpful to have so many different cooks from the beginning.”


Call Me What You Want is available via CD, vinyl, and digital download, with at least four singles and videos planned to come ahead of the album release. Preorder here.





Tracklisting:


“Bittersweet Dreams”
“Way To The Thrill”
“No More Changes”
“Don’t Call Me Hero”
“Law Of The Vulture”
“Laser Train”
“Travelers In Time”
“Captain Punishment”
“Fiddler On The Roof”
“Thin Ice” (CD bonus track)
“Über-Alman” (CD bonus track)


“Bittersweet Dreams” video:

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of their iconic album "Pyromania", veteran British rockers DEF LEPPARD will release a deluxe expanded edition in April 2024.

Fans can listen to "Photograph - Rough Mix Version (Unfinished Vocal)" below. The track is an unreleased demo version from the band's vaults of one of their most celebrated songs, taken from the forthcoming taken "Pyromania" anniversary edition.

Originally released in 1983, "Pyromania" launched DEF LEPPARD into rock legend status. The album featured global hit singles "Photograph", "Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop)" and "Rock Of Ages" and it went on to achieve platinum status across the globe (including a No. 2 chart entry in the USA). "Pyromania" has since become one of the biggest-selling rock albums of all time and alongside its follow up, "Hysteria", has made DEF LEPPARD one of only five rock bands in history to have two albums with a coveted RIAA diamond certification (over 10 million sales in the USA alone) — a massive feat within the music industry still to this day. The album also saw Phil Collen replace guitarist Pete Willis and the first of the classic DEF LEPPARD lineups was born.

In tribute to this milestone, this deluxe edition has been executive produced by DEF LEPPARD lead singer Joe Elliott and longtime producer/engineer Ronan McHugh, with mastering by Andy Pearce.

Elliott says: "A labor of love, and I loved every minute of it !!…. Rediscovering dusty old cassettes which were brilliantly restored by Ronan and finding the long-lost, unfinished '11th track' was a journey only few of us are lucky enough to take … what a trip!!"

Collen says: "'Pyromania' is a really special album for obvious reasons. It was the first time we all worked together with Mutt Lange, and I was able to play with my incredible friend Steve Clark — who was such a gifted and wonderful guitarist. I am incredibly proud of the album and what we collectively achieved."

DEF LEPPARD bassist Rick Savage says: "Right from the very early days, we had a specific idea of how we wanted to sound. A massive wall of guitars and drums supporting huge vocals and melodies. That vision came to fruition with the making of 'Pyromania'. Even now it still has that special quality that made it such a ground-breaking record. It's a testament to the songs that they remain the fans' favorites and true cornerstones of any LEPPARD show. 40 years?? It doesn't even seem like 40 days."

This deluxe edition has been prepared in conjunction with Elliott, who has acted as executive producer.

"Pyromania", the anniversary edition, will be released on 4-CD / Blu-ray box, 1LP half speed master, 2LP black vinyl, 2LP colored vinyl (D2C exclusive),2CD and digitally.

This deluxe set comes with four CDs consisting of the original album, a whole disc of unheard demos recently re-discovered by Elliott while combing through the vaults, an unreleased demo, "No You Can't Do That", and two defining live shows from the era — from the Los Angeles Forum (USA) and Westfalen Halle in Dortmund (Germany).

The Blu-ray contains an Atmos mix of the album (overseen by Giles Martin) as well as 5.1 / stereo and instrumental mixes. Also included are five promo videos from the time. The album also appears as a half speed master for the first time.

The book contains the history of the album written by Mojo and Classic Rock writer Paul Elliott (who has conducted new interviews with bandmembers),as well as rare and unseen photos by noted photographer and longtime band collaborator Ross Halfin.

For more information, visit DEF LEPPARD's official webstore.

The 4-CD / Blu-ray box track listing is as follows:

CD One: Album Re-Mastered

01. Rock Rock (Til You Drop)
02. Photograph
03. Stagefright
04. Too Late For Love
05. Die Hard The Hunter
06. Foolin'
07. Rock Of Ages
08. Comin' Under Fire
09. Action! Not Words
10. Billy's Got A Gun

CD Two: Rarities

01. No You Can't Do That - Outtake
02. Untitled 1 - Demo
03. Untitled 2 - Demo
04. Untitled 3 - Demo
05. Untitled 4 - Demo
06. Untitled 5 - Demo
07. Untitled 6 - Demo
08. Rock Rock Till You Drop - Demo
09. Too Late For Love - Demo
10. Comin' Under Fire - Demo
11. Billy's Got A Gun - Demo
12. No You Can't Do That - Demo
13. Rock Rock (Til You Drop) - Rough Mix Version
14. Photograph - Rough Mix Version (Unfinished Vocal)
15. Stagefright - Rough Mix Version
16. Too Late For Love - Rough Mix Version
17. Die Hard The Hunter - Rough Mix Version
18. Foolin' - Rough Mix Version
19. Rock Of Ages - Rough Mix Version
20. Comin' Under Fire - Rough Mix Version
21. Action! Not Words - Rough Mix Version (Chorus Only)
22. Billy's Got A Gun - Rough Mix Version

CD Three: Live Westfalen Halle, Dortmund, Germany / December 18, 1983

01. Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop)
02. Billy's Got A Gun
03. Foolin'
04. Rock Of Ages
05. Let It Go
06. Wasted

CD Four: Live at the Los Angeles Forum / September 11, 1983

01. Rock! Rock!! (Til You Drop)
02. Rock Brigade
03. High And Dry (Saturday Night)
04. Another Hit And Run
05. Billy's Got A Gun
06. Mirror Mirror (Look Into My Eyes)
07. Foolin'
08. Photograph
09. Rock Of Ages
10. Bringing Back The Heartache
11. Switch 625
12. Let It Go
13. Wasted
14. Stage Fright
15. Travellin' Band

Blu-ray: Atmos / 5.1 / New Stereo / Instrumental

01. Rock Rock (Til You Drop)
02. Photograph
03. Stagefright
04. Too Late For Love
05. Die Hard The Hunter
06. Foolin'
07. Rock Of Ages
08. Comin' Under Fire
09. Action! Not Words
10. Billy's Got A Gun

Videos

* Photograph - Official Video
* Rock Of Ages - Official Video
* Foolin' - Official Video
* Too Late For Love - Official Video / Supersonic (Historia)
* Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop) - Official Video / Japanese Show (Historia)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brazilian/American metallers SEPULTURA will kick off their farewell tour tonight (Friday, March 1) at Arena Hall in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. The sold-out show will mark the band's debut performance with new touring drummer Greyson Nekrutman (SUICIDAL TENDENCIES),who officially replaced SEPULTURA's longtime drummer Eloy Casagrande in February.

Video of SEPULTURA playing the song "Cut-Throat" during soundcheck earlier today prior to the Belo Horizonte concert can be seen below.

The 21-year-old Nekrutman is one of the most explosive young players in the drumming world, having garnered a legion of fans since bursting on to the international music scene just a few short years ago.

Greyson is featured on ALICE IN CHAINS vocalist William Duvall's "11.12.21 Live-In-Studio Nashville" CD, which came out in June 2022. Nekrutman has also performed or recorded with SUICIDAL TENDENCIES, Bakithi Kumalo, Darren Criss, Drumeo, Pearl Drums, Meinl Cymbals and has been featured in articles by Rolling Stone, Rhythm, Rhythm And Drum (Japan) and Sweetwater Music.

SEPULTURA announced Eloy's departure on February 27, explaining in a statement that he was leaving to join "another project", with some fans speculating that he will be the new drummer of SLIPKNOT.

The news of Eloy's exit from SEPULTURA came just two months after the band announced it would celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2024 by embarking on a "farewell tour" which will cover the entire globe.

In SEPULTURA's statement, the remaining bandmembers expressed their shock over Casagrande's departure, saying they were "taken by surprise" that their now-former drummer would "abandon everything related to SEPULTURA" less than a month prior to the start of the tour.

"February 6th, a few days prior to the first rehearsal, drummer Eloy Casagrande informed the band that he was leaving SEPULTURA to pursue a career in another project," they said.

"The band were taken by surprise, without prior warning, he immediately left the band, abandoning everything related to SEPULTURA.

"Luckily American virtuoso Greyson Nekrutman will take the position of Eloy Casagrande and is welcomed as the band's new drummer for the 'Celebrating Life Through Death' farewell tour."

Casagrande, who joined SEPULTURA 13 years ago as the replacement for Jean Dolabella, later took to his social media to write: "I would like to announce my departure from SEPULTURA.

"Being part of the biggest Brazilian metal band was one of the best experiences of my life. I just want to thank the band and crew members.

"It was a story of almost 13 years, in which I had the opportunity to learn and contribute with every song, show and recording. These were years of great dedication, intensity and commitment. We did 3 studio albums very well received by the critics, countless shows on 5 continents and a lot of stories to tell. So, first of all, I reiterate my thanks to SEPULTURA and the fans for everything we've been through.

"Maybe for the band's fans it doesn't make sense at this point, but decisions needed to be made thinking about new cycles that will come. We are made of choices and they are not always easy. My departure will never erase my respect and gratitude to the band.

"There is a lot to come and I hope to continue making a lot of music and art. See you on the road."

Nekrutman also commented on his addition to SEPULTURA's lineup, writing in a statement: "Today I express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible opportunity to join the legendary ranks of SEPULTURA for their farewell tour.

"To contribute to this legacy is a privilege that fills me with both honor and excitement. SEPULTURA's fearless approach to exploring new territories in the metal sphere is something that I have always admired and strived to emulate in my own musical endeavors."

He continued: "I am eagerly looking forward to adding my own spirit and passion to the mix, to connecting with the fans who have supported the band through its evolution, and to the electrifying experiences we'll create together on stage. Here's to the new chapters we'll write together, to the stages we'll conquer, and to the powerful music we'll unleash upon the world."

Confirmed "Celebrating Life Through Death" tour dates so far include shows in South America and Europe. More concerts will be announced soon.

Esses quatro caras estão ansiosos para comemorar quatro décadas do Sepultura, começando hoje à noite com um show...

Posted by Sepultura on Friday, March 1, 2024

In a new interview with Mexico's Summa Inferno, EPICA singer Simone Simons spoke about the progress of the songwriting sessions for the follow-up to 2021's "Omega" album. She said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "At the moment, we have quite a lot of songs for the new EPICA album. And I don't know if we can even record all of them, but we definitely have a lot of material.

"We recently had another writing camp where the whole band got together to write demos or finish the demos for the songs, come up with vocal lines and some working lyrics," she revealed. "We have already a whole schedule of the whole recording in the studio, and the album should be done by the end of summer and released in 2025. So, yeah, we are going to have our ninth studio album.

"I love the songs so far that we've written," Simone added. "There's more [songs that have been written] than fit on the album. So it's gonna be cool. And we won't tour that much this year. So we are focusing on the EPICA album and the 'Symphonic Synergy' shows [where EPICA will play alongside an orchestra], which is a lot of work."

Asked about the lyrical themes that will be covered on the next EPICA album, Simone said: "Well, there's a lot going on in the world, in our own personal lives. The inspiration source is never-ending. And sometimes you feel even inspired by the music itself. When you come up with an amazing vocal line and you try to come up with a lyric that fits beautiful to the melody, sometimes unconsciously things come up and sometimes funny lyrics come up, which we have to change in the end. But Mark [Jansen, guitar/vocals] already told the band about some ideas that he has, some kind of concept or a red line going that would be great to go through basically all the songs. But we are planning end of March to do another little writing session, vocal-line writing session, and then we will make a selection of the songs that we are actually going to record. Yesterday we had a long band meeting. Mark and I are gonna also have a call to see who is gonna write lyrics for which song, and then we can start with that already now these upcoming weeks. And, like always, EPICA writes indeed about topics, spiritual, scientific, philosophical, and that will always be a little bit our… the red line, the red thread going through all the lyrics. And I love the part of writing lyrics and coming up with cool sentences, cool rhymes, beautiful metaphors, so, yeah, that's always a cool part of the process."

In November 2022, EPICA released "The Alchemy Project" through Atomic Fire Records. The EP was co-written and performed with diverse guests ranging from extremists like FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE, Niilo Sevänen (INSOMNIUM) and Björn "Speed" Strid (SOILWORK) along with melodic masters like Tommy Karevik (KAMELOT),keyboard legend Phil Lanzon (URIAH HEEP) and Roel Van Helden (POWERWOLF) to a once-in-a-lifetime song with Simons, Charlotte Wessels and Myrkur.

Just one day after the release of its anniversary reissues "We Still Take You With Us" and "Live At Paradiso", EPICA celebrated 20 years of existence live in September 2022 at 013 in Tilburg, Netherlands, the same place where they played their first show (supporting ANATHEMA) back in 2002.

EPICA was formed by Jansen after leaving AFTER FOREVER in 2002, and the band quickly gained attention outside their home country, taking big steps towards becoming the leading symphonic metal superpower they have long proven to be. After their ambitious debut "The Phantom Agony" (2002) and the surprisingly eclectic sophomore work "Consign To Oblivion" (2005),the road took them to new heights via their first concept masterpiece "The Divine Conspiracy" (2007) and their global breakthrough "Design Your Universe" (2009). 2012's opus "Requiem For The Indifferent", 2014's bedazzling "The Quantum Enigma" and "The Holographic Principle" (2016),cemented their reputation as not only one of the hardest-working metal bands in the business but also as one of the best. With "Omega", the final part of the metaphysical trilogy they began with "The Quantum Enigma", they reclaimed the throne without so much as the blink of an eye, amassing three million-plus streams during the first week of the album's release.