Out now is the final track to be revealed from Peter Gabriel’s new album, i/o. This final song, the last to be written for the album, is called "Live And Let Live".


In a break from previous months, all three mixes are released simultaneously, the Bright-Side Mix by Mark ‘Spike’ Stent, the Dark-Side Mix by Tchad Blake and the Atmos In-Side Mix by Hans-Martin Buff. The song is accompanied by the striking ‘Soundsuit’ artwork of Chicago based artist Nick Cave.







Written and produced by Peter Gabriel, "Live And Let Live" is a song about forgiveness, tolerance and optimism. A joyous, rousingly-positive closing note for the album.


"Music can be like a box of mood pills that we can use to treat ourselves and a lot of the work of the Reverberation project is focused on that sort of idea. When someone suggested that forgiveness might be a topic to write about, at first, I thought, ‘that's not interesting to me,’ but then I remembered two things. Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who was the chair of The Elders and a real mentor for me, led the Truth and Reconciliation Committee in South Africa and that really allowed people to expose, report and maybe feel again some of the horrors of the apartheid era. I remember he always said that listening made a huge difference, just making sure people felt heard and recognized. Then, sometimes, it created a space for forgiveness.


"There's also a description that Nelson Mandela gave when he was released from jail after 27 years in prison and found himself about to become president of South Africa, standing next to some of the people who'd been responsible for keeping him in jail all that time. He said he felt some of the old fear and hatred swelling up inside him but when he thought hard about it, he realized that he needed to find a way to work with these people, to build what he called his rainbow coalition. He needed to feel their humanity and ultimately to find a way to forgive them. He was quite sure that if he couldn't forgive them and find a way to work with them, that he would remain their prisoner for the rest of his days.


"Now, I know if we look at what's happening in the Middle East now or in Ukraine, all sorts of places around the world where there's still violence and brutality, to walk around with a bunch of flowers, preaching forgiveness seems trite and pathetic, maybe. But in the long run, I think people have to find a way. ‘Peace only happens when you respect the rights of others’ is a quote from the Peace University in Costa Rica and I think that's a really important message for me and for my life. You either belong to that hurt or you free yourself and forgiveness is clearly a super effective way of freeing yourself."


"Live And Let Live", the last song to have been written for the album, features contributions from many players already heard on other songs, such as Tony Levin, David, Rhodes, Manu Katché, Brian Eno, Melanie Gabriel, John Metcalfe and the New Blood Orchestra. Notable other contributions come from Steve Gadd ‘wonderful grooves created with brushes’ that are looped at the start of the song, some beautiful trumpet by Paolo Fresu "soulful and poetic’ and the return of the singers of Soweto Gospel choir ‘great voices and this deep soulfulness, their additions are always wonderful for me."


"Nick Cave does a lot performance, movement and dance work, but these extraordinary figures, for which he is best known, ‘Soundsuits’, are amazing. They are like armour. Beneath all this exuberant colour you can’t actually sense the race, the class, the wealth or the gender of the person wearing the Soundsuit, so, you have that sense that you are not going to get attacked for pre-conceived ideas about who you are or what people like you are like… it’s a very positive spin on a negative situation. Nick’s work is very interesting and unusual and I am very glad that he was happy to be part of this."


Listen to the Bright-Side and Dark-Side mixes below:








"After a years-worth of full moon releases, I’m very happy to see all these new songs back together on the good ship i/o and ready for their journey out into the world." - Peter Gabriel


At the end of a year in which Peter Gabriel has released a new song on the occasion of every full moon, as well as performed live to rapturous audience throughout the UK, Europe and North America, December 1 sees the release of his much-anticipated new studio album, i/o.


i/o is 12 tracks of grace, gravity and great beauty that provide welcome confirmation of not only Peter’s ongoing ability to write stop-you-in-your-tracks songs but also of that thrilling voice, still perfectly, delightfully intact. Throughout the album the intelligent and thoughtful - often thought-provoking - songs tackle life and the universe. Our connection to the world around us - ‘I’m just a part of everything’ Peter sings on title track i/o - is a recurring motif, but so too the passing of time, mortality and grief, alongside such themes as injustice, surveillance and the roots of terrorism. But this is not a solemn record. While reflective, the mood is never despondent; i/o is musically adventurous, often joyous and ultimately full of hope, topped off as it is, by the rousingly optimistic closing song, Live and Let Live.


Recorded mostly at Real World Studios and Peter’s home studio, the lengthy gestation of i/o means it has a sizeable cast list. Peter has kept his trusty inner circle of musicians close to hand, which means guitarist David Rhodes, bassist Tony Levin and drummer Manu Katché are sterling presences throughout. Several songs bear the fingerprints of long-time associate Brian Eno, whilst there are notable contributions from Richard Russell, pianist Tom Cawley, trumpeters Josh Shpak and Paolo Fresu, cellist Linnea Olsson and keyboard player Don E. Peter’s daughter Melanie contributes warm backing vocals, as does Ríoghnach Connolly of The Breath, while Real World regulars Richard Chappell, Oli Jacobs, Katie May and Richard Evans collectively provide programming and play various instruments. Soweto Gospel Choir and Swedish all-male choir Oprhei Drängar lend their magnificent harmonies to a selection of tracks, and the mass strings of the New Blood Orchestra, led by John Metcalfe, both soothe and soar.


Renowned for being a boundary-pushing artist, i/o is not simply a collection of a dozen songs. All 12 tracks are subject to two stereo mixes: the Bright-Side Mix, handled by Mark ‘Spike’ Stent, and the Dark-Side Mix, as reshaped by Tchad Blake. “We have two of the greatest mixers in the world in Tchad and Spike and they definitely bring different characters to the songs. Tchad is very much a sculptor building a journey with sound and drama, Spike loves sound and assembling these pictures, so he’s more of a painter.” Both versions are included on the double-CD package, and are also available separately as double vinyl albums. And that’s not all. A third version - the In-Side Mix, in Dolby Atmos, comes courtesy of Hans-Martin Buff “doing a wonderful job generating these much more three-dimensional mixes” and is included in three-disc set, including Blu-ray.


Continuing the idea developed for Peter’s US and UP albums, he has again invited a range of visual artists to contribute a piece of art to accompany the music and each of i/o’s 12 songs were handed to a world-renowned artist to create an accompanying work, whether paint, photography, sculpture or even Plasticine. The dozen artists make an exceedingly impressive team of collaborators: Ai Weiwei, Nick Cave, Olafur Eliasson, Henry Hudson, Annette Messager, Antony Micallef, David Moreno, Cornelia Parker, Megan Rooney, Tim Shaw, David Spriggs and Barthélémy Toguo.


Another visual link with Peter’s past work is the cover shot. Taken by photographer Nadav Kander, it echoes with the covers of his earlier albums, always present but, with the exception of So, intriguingly obscured or manipulated.


These echoes of the past might resonate, but i/o is fundamentally an album of - and for - the here and now. Many of its themes may be timeless, but they’re also warnings that we’re living on borrowed time, both as a planet and as individuals. As Peter sings on the divine So Much, “this edition is limited”.


The wait has been worth every minute. i/o is another triumphant Peter Gabriel record.


Pre-order i/o in various formats here.





Tracklisting:


CD / Digital


"Panopticom"
"The Court"
"Playing For Time"
"i/o"
"Four Kinds Of Horses"
"Road To Joy"
"So Much"
"Olive Tree"
"Love Can Heal"
"This Is Home"
"And Still"
"Live And Let Live"


2LP


Side A    
"Panopticom"
"Playing For Time"
"The Court"


Side B    
"Four Kinds Of Horses"
"i/o"
"Love Can Heal"


Side C    
"Road To Joy"
"So Much"
"Olive Tree"


Side D    
"This Is Home"
"And Still"
"Live And Let Live"


(Photo - Nadav Kander)

The Rolling Stones have released a lyric video for "Bite My Head Off", featuring Paul McCartney. The track is featured on the band's new album, Hackney Diamonds. Says McCartney: “I had a blast playing with the Stones on this session. Rockin!


The lyric video, featuring unseen studio footage, can be viewed below:







The 12-track Hackney Diamonds was recorded in various locations around the world, including Henson Recording Studios, Los Angeles; Metropolis Studios, London; Sanctuary Studios, Nassau, Bahamas; Electric Lady Studios, New York; and The Hit Factory/Germano Studios, also in New York. Late drummer Charlie Watts is featured on two tracks, "Mess It Up" and "Live By The Sword". "Live By The Sword" additionally features bass from former Stones bassist Bill Wyman. "Sweet Sounds Of Heaven" featuring vocals from Lady Gaga and keys & piano from Stevie Wonder, "Get Close" and "Live By The Sword" with piano from Elton John, and "Bite My Head Off" with bass from Paul McCartney.


Hackney Diamonds is their first studio set of new material since 2005's A Bigger Bang. Since then, the Stones have continued to smash box office records on a series of global sell-out tours and released 2016's Grammy Award winning Blue & Lonesome, which featured their brilliant versions of many of the blues tracks that helped shape their sound, and topped album charts around the world. Last year, they thrilled European audiences totalling nearly a quarter of a million on the anniversary Sixty tour. The Rolling Stones have sold over 250 million albums worldwide.


Hackney Diamonds marks The Stones' first album produced by producer and musician Andrew Watt.





Tracklisting:


"Angry"
"Get Close"
"Depending On You"
"Bite My Head Off"
"Whole Wide World"
"Dreamy Skies"
"Mess It Up"
"Live By The Sword"
"Driving Me Too Hard"
"Tell Me Straight"
"Sweet Sounds Of Heaven"
"Rolling Stone Blues"


"Mess It Up" (Purple Disco Machine Remix) lyric video:





 "Sweet Sounds of Heaven" lyric video:





"Angry" video:





The Stones recently announced they are going back on the road with a brand-new tour performing in 16 cities across the US and Canada.


Fans can expect to experience Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood play their most popular hits ranging from “Start Me Up,” “Gimme Shelter,” “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” “Satisfaction” and more, as well as fan favourite deep cuts and music from their new album, Hackney Diamonds.


The legendary rockers will be returning to the road following the success of their history-making and chart-topping studio album Hackney Diamonds, which has just received a Grammy nomination for the projects lead single, "Angry". Showcasing a new stage and high energy that only the Stones can bring as one of the worlds most iconic artists ever, this tour will guarantee a show to remember. The United States last hosted the rock n roll giants during their critically acclaimed No Filter tour in 2021, which sold out stadiums across the country while becoming one of the highest-grossing concert tours of all time.


The tour is set to kick off April 28, 2024 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, with stops in Las Vegas, Glendale, East Rutherford, Seattle, Foxboro, Orlando, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Cleveland, Denver, Chicago, Vancouver, Los Angeles and Santa Clara. The Stones will also make a stop at this years New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival for a special performance on May 2. Full tour routing is below.





Confirmed dates:


April
28 - NRG Stadium - Houston, TX


May
2 - Jazz Fest - New Orleans, LA
7 - State Farm Stadium - Glendale, AZ
11 - Allegiant Stadium - Las Vegas, NV
15 - Lumen Field - Seattle, WA
23 - Metlife Stadium - East Rutherford, NJ
26 - Metlife Stadium - East Rutherford, NJ
30 - Gillette Stadium - Foxboro, MA


June
3 - Camping World Stadium - Orlando, FL
7 - Mercedes-Benz Stadium - Atlanta, GA
11 - Lincoln Financial Field - Philadelphia, PA
15 - Cleveland Browns Stadium - Cleavland, OH
20 - Empower Field at Mile High - Denver, CO
27 - Soldier Field - Chicago, IL


July
5 - BC Place - Vancouver, BC
10 - SoFi Stadium - Los Angeles, CA
17 - Levi’s ® Stadium - Santa Clara, CA





(Photo - Mark Seliger)

The upcoming release of "The Benefit Concert Volume 20" by Warren Haynes includes a spectacular highlight: the first-ever —and only to date — performance of Dave Grohl's 23-minute instrumental epic "Play", which extends to an extraordinary 36 minutes in its live rendition. This live performance is now available, offering fans the opportunity to witness "Play" being brought to life on that unforgettable evening.

Originally composed and performed entirely by Grohl on every instrument, "Play" is an expansive journey through Grohl's musical prowess and creativity. The video release captures the energy and intensity of "Play" as rendered by Grohl and a veritable murderers row of musical accomplices including Greg Kurstin (keys),guitarists Jason Falkner, Alain Johannes and Barrett Jones, Chris Chaney (bass) and Drew Hester (percussion). The performance's distinctiveness was further elevated by the rhythmic artistry of Abby The Spoon Lady, a prominent Asheville-based busker and advocate for street performance, whose unique spoon-playing skill brought an unexpected and captivating dimension to "Play". Delivering a blend of visual and auditory artistry, this one and only live version of "Play" is a key highlight of "The Benefit Concert Volume 20".

"The Benefit Concert Volume 20" is a collection of standout performances from Warren Haynes's 30th annual Christmas Jam, bringing together a diverse group of artists. The album, as well as the event itself, serve not only as a musical spectacle but also as a philanthropic endeavor, with all proceeds being donated to the Asheville Area Habitat For Humanity. In addition to Haynes and Grohl, other featured artists on the forthcoming set include Eric Church, Joe Bonamassa, GOV'T MULE, Mike Gordon, Marco Benevento, Jamey Johnson, Edwin McCain, Kevn Kinney, Tyler Ramsey, Scott Murawski and Ron Holloway, along with Machan Taylor, Mini Carlsson, Mike Barnes and Ray Sisk sitting in with GOV'T MULE. Recorded on December 7 and December 8, 2018, in Asheville, North Carolina, the concert was not just a musical feat but also a significant charitable event, raising over $2.8 million for the Asheville Area Habitat For Humanity.

"The Benefit Concert Volume 20" will be available physically on four different double vinyl volumes (in different colors: purple, orange, blue, red),2-CD + DVD set, and 3-CD + 2 Blu-ray set, along with a digital-only format. Bundles are also available now to pre-order.

Starting in December of 1988, Warren Haynes launched what would become a cherished tradition in his hometown of Asheville, North Carolina. Despite its name, the Christmas Jam was less about festive tunes and more about gathering local musicians to celebrate the holidays and give back to the community. Over 30 years later, this humble event transformed into a nationally recognized spectacle, raising over $2.8 million for Asheville Area Habitat For Humanity and the construction of over 50 homes in the region. Reflecting on its growth, Haynes notes: "As an Ashevillean, it's heartening to see the progress Asheville has witnessed over these three decades. In many ways, Christmas Jam mirrors this city's vibrant spirit."

"The Benefit Concert Volume 20" stands out not only as a testament to three decades of musical celebrations, but also the enduring spirit of Christmas Jams. Throughout the years, it's the impromptu collaborations (often times between artists and musicians meeting backstage or on stage),the unwavering commitment of all participants, and the unity in music that truly define this legacy.

"Although Christmas Jam, the main event, is traditionally a one-night event, there have been three occasions where we felt the need to make it two nights — the 20th, 25th, and 30th anniversaries, each of which featured extraordinary lineups," Haynes adds. "The performances being represented in this package are culled from the 30th anniversary in 2018, which was in itself a milestone for 'the Jam.' However, its importance is amplified by the fact that the next year we would take a well-deserved break with every intention of resuming business as usual in 2020, not knowing that 2020 would bring about the COVID-19 pandemic which affected not just the music business, but the entire world. Thankfully, we were able to bring it back in 2022 with a stellar lineup and will continue on this year with another memorable event. It feels great to be back."

Haynes is a cornerstone of the American music landscape, lauded as one of the most formidable guitarists and vocalists of our time. His prolific career includes his tenure with the ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND and THE DEAD and as a founding member of GOV'T MULE. Produced by Haynes and executive produced by Stefani Scamardo, "The Benefit Concert Volume 20" shines a light on the enduring appeal of live music and the camaraderie it fosters. With the purchase of "The Benefit Concert Volume 20", music enthusiasts not only acquire a piece of extraordinary musical history but also contribute to the vital work of the Asheville Area Habitat For Humanity, helping to build homes and hope in the Asheville area.

"Christmas Jam" returns for the 32nd annual event on December 9, 2023.

Last night, Bruce Dickinson unveiled the dramatic, action-packed video for "Afterglow Of Ragnarok", the first single to be taken from his upcoming solo album "The Mandrake Project". In front of a packed audience on the opening day of CCXP23, Brazil's huge Comic-Con event in Sao Paulo, the IRON MAIDEN frontman premiered the spectacular film and revealed further details about the album and forthcoming comic series in partnership with Z2, including releasing 2,000 CCXP-exclusive versions of the comic to the delight of the international comic community.

"The Mandrake Project" will be released on March 1 via BMG. Across ten inventive, expansive and absorbing tracks, Bruce Dickinson and his long-term co-writer and producer Roy "Z" Ramirez, have created one of 2024's defining rock albums. Sonically heavy and rich in musical textures, it 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 Los Angeles'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" track listing:

01. Afterglow Of Ragnarok (05:45)
02. Many Doors To Hell (04:48)
03. Rain On The Graves (05:05)
04. Resurrection Men (06:24)
05. Fingers In The Wounds (03:39)
06. Eternity Has Failed (06:59)
07. Mistress Of Mercy (05:08)
08. Face In The Mirror (04:08)
09. Shadow Of The Gods (07:02)
10. Sonata (Immortal Beloved) (09:51)

Fans of both Bruce Dickinson and IRON MAIDEN will notice that the album features the curiously named "Eternity Has Failed", which first appeared in a different form titled "If Eternity Should Fail" on IRON MAIDEN's 2015's album "The Book Of Souls", illustrating how long the creative process for "The Mandrake Project" has been in the works.

Bruce has previously described lead single "Afterglow Of Ragnarok" as "a heavy song and there's a great big riff driving it… but there's also a real melody in the chorus that displays the light and shade that the rest of the album brings." And the track is brought vividly to life in the cinematic video which premiered last night.

Directed by award-winning director Ryan Mackfall, written by Dickinson and acclaimed British writer Tony Lee (whose lengthy credits include "2000AD", DC and Marvel ranging from "Dr. Who" and "Star Trek" to "Spider Man" and "X-Men"),the film unveils Dr. Necropolis, the main protagonist at the heart of "The Mandrake Project". It also sets the scene for the story to come, reflecting the dark narrative contained in the eight-page comic book prequel which features in the seven-inch gatefold vinyl release of the single.

Ryan Mackfall comments: "Many years before I was a director, I have fond memories of various music videos that spoke to me and one of those was 'Can I Play With Madness' by IRON MAIDEN. For me it defined what a music video is. Little did I know, many years later I'd be on a call with one of the stars of that video, Mr. Bruce Dickinson, discussing ideas for a music video. Bruce has felt like a kindred spirit from that moment and it was therefore only right that we attempted to bring the story of 'Afterglow Of Ragnarok' to life in a live action form. Naturally the music is a big part of the engine of the music video and this track was a heavy hitter from the first play. But beyond that I firmly believe it's also the passion of the artist that defines the results — Bruce's passion is unmatched. I really hope the fans find themselves taking Necropolis' journey with the mandrake juice time and time again. This is just the start of something very special!"

"The Mandrake Project" is not just an album, but a dark, adult story of power, abuse and a struggle for identity, set against the backdrop of scientific and occult genius. Created by Bruce Dickinson, the comic series is scripted by Tony Lee and stunningly illustrated by Staz Johnson for Z2 Comics, released as 12 quarterly issues that will be collected into three annual graphic novels. The first episode will be released in comic shops on January 17, 2024.

Bruce Dickinson and his phenomenal band will bring the music of "The Mandrake Project" to life with a major headline tour next spring and summer.

2024 tour dates:

April 18 - Diana Theater, Guadalajara, Mexico
April 20 - Pepsi Theatre, Mexico City, Mexico
April 24 - Live Curitiba, Curitiba, Brazil
April 25 - Pepsi On Stage, Porto Alegre, Brazil
April 27 - Opera Hall, Brasilia, Brazil
April 28 - Arena Hall, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
April 30 - Qualistage, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
May 2 - Quinta Linda, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
May 4 - Vibra, Sao Paulo, Brazil
May 18 - Barrowland Ballroom, Glasgow, UK
May 19 - O2 Academy, Manchester, UK
May 21st May – Arena, Swansea, UK
May 23rd May – Rock City, Nottingham, UK
May 24 - O2 Forum Kentish Town, London, UK
May 26 - L'Olympia, Paris, France
May 28 - 013, Tilburg, Netherlands
May 29 - De Oosterport, Groningen, Netherlands
June 1 - Barba Negra, Budapest, hungary
June 3 - Arenale Romane, Bucharest, Romania
June 5-8 - Mystic Festival, Gdansk, Poland *
June 5-8 - Sweden Rock Festival, Solvesborg, Sweden *
June 9 - Rockefeller, Oslo, Norway
June 11 - Grona Lund, Stockholm, Sweden
June 13 - House Of Culture, Helsinki, Finland
June 14 - Noblessner Foundry, Tallinn, Estonia
June 16 - Huxleys Neue Welt, Berlin, Germany
June 17 - Grosse Freiheit 36, Hamburg, Germany
June 19 – 22 - Copenhell, Copenhagen, Denmark *
June 21 - Graspop Metal Meeting, Dessel, Belgium *
June 22 - Summerside Festival, Grenchen, Switzerland *
June 24 - Zeltfestival Rhein-Neckar, Mannheim, Germany *
June 25 - Circus Krone, Munich, Germany
June 27-30 - Hellfest, Clisson, France *
June 30 - Rockhal, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
July 3-6 - Rockharz Open Air, Ballenstedt, Germany *
July 5 - Ippodrome Delle Capannelle, Rock In Rome, Rome, Italy *
July 6 - Bassano Del Grappa, Metal Park, Vincenza, Italy *
July 9 - E-Werk, Koln, Germany
July 13 - Hala, Zagreb, Croatia
July 16 - Kolodrum Arena, Sofia, Bulgaria
July 19 - Kucukciftlik Park, Istanbul, Turkey
July 21 - Release, Athens, Greece *

* Festival performance

Bruce Dickinson's touring band features guitarist Roy Z, drummer Dave Moreno, bass player Tanya O'Callaghan and keyboard maestro Mistheria.

"The Mandrake Project" will be Dickinson's seventh solo album and his first since "Tyranny Of Souls" in 2005. It will be released via BMG worldwide on multiple formats.

Back in December 2017, Dickinson said that his next solo LP would likely include a reworked version of "If Eternity Should Fail", the opening track on "The Book Of Souls". At the time, he said that he had about "half" of his seventh record already written and he also confirmed that "If Eternity Should Fail" was originally penned as a Dickinson solo track.

He told Finland's Kaaos TV that the original plan was for his next solo record to be "a whole concept album, which was gonna be called 'If Eternity Should Fail'. And 'If Eternity Should Fail' was the title track to my new solo album," he said. "And a bit like [Dickinson's 1989 solo song] 'Bring Your Daughter To The Slaughter' [laughs], it got commandeered for IRON MAIDEN. So if I did do another solo album, which I think I will, I might just stick to my original plan and have that as the title track. I mean, I did write it — it was the first track that I wrote for it. So, yeah, I'd probably still include that song. But it would be… the feel would be slightly different — not very much, though — from the MAIDEN version."

In 2015, Dickinson told France's Hard Force magazine that "If Eternity Should Fail" ended up being used by IRON MAIDEN after bassist Steve Harris heard the demos that Bruce was working on for what was supposed to be his next solo album. "And [Steve] went, 'That's a really cool song. Can we use that? That's gonna be the opening song on the album,'" he recalled. "And I went, 'Yeah, okay.' And he was already writing, I think… He was already thinking of 'The Book Of Souls' as being the title, so he told me about the Mayan thing. And I'm, like, 'Yeah, that's cool. Okay. Yeah, I see where you're going.' But in my case, that song was written as part of a story. So the spoken word at the end is the beginning of a story that goes through the whole album. And one of the characters is Dr. Necropolis; he's the bad guy. And the good guy is Professor Lazarus; he raises people from the dead. So that introduces Necropolis in the spoken-word thing. And I asked Steve… I said, 'Look. Okay. I get having the song…' 'Cause it opens up with, 'Here is the soul of a man.' 'Yup. Get that. But what about the end?' I said, 'Will people understand what this is about? Because this is nothing to do with the Mayans or anything. This is to do with… I'd come up with a concept album that doesn't happen.' [Laughs] And he [went], 'No, no, no. It's just talking about souls and everything, and it sounds great.' I went, 'Okay.' [Laughs]"

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

Photo credit: John McMurtrie

U.S. doom metal giants THE OBSESSED have premiered the second single taken from their long-anticipated fifth album "Gilded Sorrow", to be released on February 16, 2024 through Ripple Music. Stream "Stoned Back To The Bomb Age" below.

Fronted by legendary guitarist and vocalist Scott "Wino" Weinrich, the iconic doom metal powerhouse THE OBSESSED comes roaring back after seven years with their awaited new studio album and Ripple Music debut "Gilded Sorrow". Expanded to a four-piece with Jason Taylor on rhythm guitar, their music is more aggressive, straightforward and downright mean than ever before: firing on all cylinders, the foursome delivers their most rocking album of all time with "Gilded Sorrow". Described by Wino as "the heaviest thing he's ever done", this new sonic onslaught from the mighty East Coast foursome is about to leave an indelible mark on the 2024 heavy music landscape!

About the song, Weinrich says: "There was a time when I listened to a lot of daytime radio to take the edge off an extremely mundane lifestyle. George W. Bush was president and the USA had started the Afghanistan war. One day, I heard deputy secretary of defense [Richard] Armitage say: 'If Pakistan gets involved in this, we will bomb them back to the stone age.' I was struck by the callous brutality of this statement, and we crafted 'Stoned Back To The Bomb Age' in a straightforward 'fuck you' to these inhuman war pigs and the other unelected swine that run the world and are plotting humanities demise as you read this!"

"Gilded Sorrow" was produced by Frank Marchand, Weinrich and Taylor. It was mixed and engineered by Marchand and mastered by Alan Douches. It will be issued on vinyl, CD and digital.

Wino spoke to TotalRock's "Hobo On The Radio" show about "Gilded Sorrow". He said in part: "I think it's the heaviest thing I've ever done. I mean, heavy in a sense as not just sludge heavy, but I think it's well-rounded. I would say I think it's the best thing I've done. I like to be able to say that it's the best thing I've ever done because I want everything that I do to be as good or better. Every time I do a record, I set the bar. 'The Church Within' set the bar for 'Sacred'. 'Sacred' set the bar for 'Gilded Sorrow'. We did it with Frank Marchand [at Waterford Digital] in Maryland.

"We added two members. We added Chris Angleberger on bass. He started out in Maryland in a band called TRANQUILIZER, eventually ended up in Florida, and he plays in some tribute bands and stuff like that; he did some original stuff along the way. And then Jason Taylor on second guitar. I think the adding the second guitar to THE OBSESSED was one of the best decisions I've made, because he's a virtuoso guitar player, first of all. Second of all, he really understands my music and me. He came to the table pretty much knowing all my songs. He sent me a really nice letter. We did some touring with SIERRA when we first met — his band SIERRA; he's Canadian. And he sent me a really nice letter saying, 'I see my future playing original music with you. Your music would be the vehicle.' And I must say he contributed quite a bit of good stuff to this record 'Gilded Sorrow'. He co-wrote some stuff with me [and] he made a bunch of great suggestions. The record runs together sort of as one piece. There are a few stops here and there where it needs to stop, but as a rule, it runs together as one piece. And that was Frank Marchand's idea. He wanted to do something a little bit different with the production, but it really works. But Jason did all the segue stuff with his guitar, with some equipment that he has. So no synthesizers were used on this record. It doesn't sound all keyboarded out — don't get me wrong. But for lack of a better word, if people were wondering, this is all guitar stuff. I think he rounded it out really, really well."

Asked if "Gilded Sorrow" has a "much more expansive sound" than previous THE OBSESSED efforts, Wino said: "I think it sounds fantastic. Everything I do with Frank gets better and better. Frank Marchand in Maryland, he's an amazing live sound guy, but he also has an amazing command of the recording studio, because he's got an amazing command of his digital realm. But then he is got all kinds of analog stuff. It's like Les Paul orgy. He knows his gear. And he can use it. He cut his teeth doing live sound, so he understands hard rock. He knows what the fuck he's doing."

Weinrich went on to say that he is "not really pulling any punches" on "Gilded Sorrow". "But at the same time, I'm not trying to shoot myself in the foot either," he explained. "The music has gotta talk. The reason I even have an audience at all is from the music. I appreciate the fact that I've been able to have a long and fruitful career. I really do."

"Gilded Sorrow" track listing:

01. Daughter Of An Echo
02. It's Not OK
03. Realize A Dream
04. Gilded Sorrow
05. Stoned Back To The Bomb Age
06. Wellspring - Dark Sunshine
07. Jailine
08. Yen Sleep
09. Lucky Free Nice Machine

THE OBSESSED was formed in the late 1970s in Potomac, Maryland by legendary Weinrich (SAINT VITUS, SPIRIT CARAVAN). The band spawned in the realm of musicians/artists such as BLACK SABBATH, Frank Zappa, THE DICTATORS and THE STOOGES. The earliest lineup consisted of Wino, bassist Mark Laue, guitarist John Reese, and drummer Dave Flood. In 1983, Wino took over vocal duties and the band became a three-piece to record the "Sodden Jackal" EP.

The band broke up in the late '80s after Wino moved to California to join SAINT VITUS. At that time, a German label, Hellhound Records, and the booking agency that had signed SAINT VITUS, released "The Obsessed", originally recorded in 1985, prompting Wino to reform THE OBSESSED. After multiple lineup changes, the band signed to Columbia Records in 1994 and released its third album, "The Church Within". Despite receiving highly acclaimed reviews, THE OBSESSED would break up following the release, after which Wino formed SPIRIT CARAVAN (then SHINE) and other projects.

In September 2011, THE OBSESSED returned to the stage at Roadburn festival with "The Church Within"'s legendary lineup (featuring Wino, Greg Rogers and Guy Pinhas). The band played a few more reunion shows over the next couple years at Hellfest 2012 and Maryland Deathfest XI in May 2013 with bassist Reid Raley.

Wino announced the full-time return of THE OBSESSED in March 2016 and the band's official signing to Relapse Records to record the follow-up to "The Church Within". The new lineup originally consisted of SPIRIT CARAVAN bassist Dave Sherman and Wino's longtime friend and former road crew member Brian Costantino (drums). On October 31, 2016, Wino announced another new lineup change for THE OBSESSED, including Bruce Falkinburg (bass) and Seraphim (guitar),making that the first time the band had been a four-piece in over thirty-five years.

In 2017, THE OBSESSED unleashed "Sacred", the band's first studio album in over twenty years, further pushing the band into the annals of heavy metal history. After a few years on the road, the lineup stabilized around Brian Costantino on drums, Chris Angleberger on bass, Jason Taylor on guitar, and, of course, Wino at the helm.

THE OBSESSED 2023 is:

Chris Angleberger - bass
Jason Taylor - guitar
Brian Costantino - drums
Scott "Wino" Weinrich - guitar and vocals

Extreme power metal unit DRAGONFORCE has released a new version of its single "Doomsday Party", now unveiled as a duet with Elize Ryd (AMARANTHE). This version will be included as a bonus track on some editions of DRAGONFORCE's highly anticipated upcoming album "Warp Speed Warriors", out on March 15, 2024 via Napalm Records. Led by guitarists Sam Totman and Herman Li — the latter also known for his successful Twitch channel — the Grammy-nominated band has gained millions of YouTube views on their music videos and boasts nearly two million monthly listeners on Spotify. On "Doomsday Party", 1980s rock influences meet captivating retro video game soundscapes and epic guitar solos in true DRAGONFORCE manner, and the original version of the track has already reached over half a million Spotify streams. Ryd's stunning vocal performance gives the song a new edge.

DRAGONFORCE recently finished their massively successful North American headline tour, which featured a brand-new setlist and stage production, as well as special guests AMARANTHE, NANOWAR OF STEEL and EDGE OF PARADISE on several sold-out dates. Now, DRAGONFORCE is preparing for their epic European co-headline tour with AMARANTHE and special guests INFECTED RAIN. Kicking off in February 2024 in Hamburg, the tour is selling out fast with shows already sold out months in advance.

Li comments on "Doomsday Party" (feat. Elize Ryd): "I've been a big fan of AMARANTHE since their demo release. After our mini collab on my Twitch livestream to produce the track 'Cyber Sausage Fest', we were thrilled when Elize was able to create this special duet version of the song with DRAGONFORCE. I just love listening to her incredible singing, and Elize's power dynamic performance on 'Doomsday Party' is pure eargasm. I am sure both DRAGONFORCE and AMARANTHE fans will adore this version of the song too. I'm eagerly anticipating sharing the stage together on our upcoming European co-headline tour!"

Ryd comments on the collaboration: "One of the most crazy and fun collaborations since the 'Cyber Sausage Fest' song. What a banger 'Doomsday Party' is! This song makes every cell in my body hyped, that's what I love about DRAGONFORCE's music. I was extremely happy when I received the request to join in on this track. The vocal recording took place in Stockholm with Jona Tee from H.E.A.T.

"Finally, I wanna say that it is a huge honor for me to officially take part in DRAGONFORCE's history. Thank you so much for having me. It was incredibly fun to tour with you in the USA and Canada. Can't wait to see you again on tour in the UK and Europe!"

"Warp Speed Warriors" was produced, mixed and mastered by Damien Rainaud at Mix Unlimited in Los Angeles, California with DRAGONFORCE guitarists Sam Totman and Herman Li.

In November 2022, DRAGONFORCE released a music video for the song "The Last Dragonborn". The track is taken from DRAGONFORCE's latest studio album, "Extreme Power Metal", which came out in September 2019. Produced in Los Angeles, California by Rainaud at Mix Unlimited, the LP was also recorded, in part, on Li's livestream channel on Twitch with participation from the fans.

"The Last Dragonborn" was the first DRAGONFORCE music video to feature bassist Alicia Vigil, who first joined the band as a touring member in January 2020.

DRAGONFORCE's platinum-selling single "Through The Fire And Flames" brought the London-based Grammy-nominated extreme power metal group international acclaim and was featured as the most challenging song on "Guitar Hero III".

In March 2019, the "Through The Fire And Flames" music video reached a new milestone: it surpassed one hundred million views on YouTube — DRAGONFORCE's first music video to do so.

"Through The Fire And Flames" is the leadoff track from 2006's "Inhuman Rampage" album, which was officially certified gold in July 2017 by the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) for sales in excess of half a million copies.

In August 2019, DRAGONFORCE parted ways with longtime bassist Frédéric Leclercq. He has since joined German thrashers KREATOR.

DRAGONFORCE is:

Herman Li - Guitar, Backing Vocals
Sam Totman - Guitar, Backing Vocals
Marc Hudson - Vocals
Alicia Vigil - Bass, Backing Vocals
Gee Anzalone - Drums, Backing Vocals

MVD Entertainment is proud to announce the release of Billy Idol - State Line: Live At The Hoover Dam, out on Blu-ray and DVD on December 15.  


Kicking off his sell-out 2023 North American spring and summer tour, Billy Idol’s once in a lifetime performance, which illuminated the surrounding Black Canyon of the Colorado River and the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, features a career-spanning run of chart-topping hits, including “Dancing With Myself,” “Eyes Without A Face,” “Rebel Yell” and “White Wedding”.  







Billy Idol – State Line: Live At The Hoover Dam highlights the history and significance of Hoover Dam and includes performances from two unique sets of Billy Idol’s iconic hits: a full band concert at sunset with special guests that electrified and illuminated the surrounding Black Canyon, and an acoustic duo set (with guitarist/collaborator of over 40 years, Steve Stevens) on the roof of the powerhouse at the foot of Hoover Dam straddling the Colorado River, directly on the Nevada/Arizona state line.


One of the most recognizable faces and voices of rock 'n' roll, with over 40 million albums sold and numerous platinum albums worldwide, the hell-raising rock star is joined on stage by his longtime band and special guest stars, including The Kills' Alison Mosshart, former Sex Pistols guitarist Steve Jones, and No Doubt bassist Tony Kanal.


The Blu-ray and DVD are loaded with bonus features, including an exclusive Q&A: Steve Stevens, Acoustic Dam performance: “To Be A Lover,” “Eyes Without A Face,” and “Rebel Yell,” and a 6-panel concert booklet.


Pre-order the Blu-ray here, and the DVD here.





(Photo - Jane Stuart)

With the 2023 Christmas season in full swing, music fans are on the hunt for new versions of the Holiday songs they love and adore. Spirits have been lifted as word about two new Christmas metal compilations have begun to spread, A Very Metal Christmas Vols. 1 & 2. Both compilations offer refreshing and energetic versions of seasonal favorites by the likes of Rainbow's Graham Bonnet, Megadeth's Chris Poland, King's X's Ty Tabor, George Lynch, Great White's Jack Russell, Vixen's Janet Gardner, Angel's Frank DiMino and many more.


Today, a new single from the second volume is made available on all digital music platforms - an absolutely breathtaking version of the Judy Garland beloved ballad “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas”. Performed by legendary guitar virtuoso, formerly of metal giants Megadeth, Marty Friedman proves that music doesn’t need to have walls of distortion or endless solos to be powerful. Instead, Friedman’s take on the song mixes acoustic and electric guitars with nary a distortion pedal in sight. His playing is both passionate and effortless, expressing the hope-amidst-sorrow emotion of the song perfectly. With a stellar guest appearance by Friedman’s life partner and frequent collaborator, Japanese cellist Hiyori Okuda, this track is sure to bring the warmth of the Christmas spirit to any home.


Stream/download the single here, listen below:







A Very Metal Christmas and A Very Metal Christmas II can be ordered via the links below:


A Very Metal Christmas:


- CD
- Vinyl
- Digital


A Very Metal Christmas II:


- CD
- Vinyl
- Digital





A Very Metal Christmas tracklisting:


"All I Want For Christmas Is You" - Tim "Ripper" Owens, Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal, David Ellefson
"Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree" - Cherie Currie, Tracii Guns
"Feliz Navidad" - Stephen Pearcy, Vinnie Moore    
"Carol Of The Bells" - Chris Poland
"Last Christmas" - Graham Bonnet, Mick Box        
"Please Come Home For Christmas" - Carmine Appice, Ty Tabor, Paul Shortino, Phil Soussan    
"White Christmas" - Bulletboys       
"Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/2"4 - George Lynch    
"Merry Xmas Everybody" - Kim McAuliffe & Cliff Evans
"Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town" - Paul Dianno   
"Happy Holiday" - Enuff Z'nuff     
"Little Saint Nick" - L.A. Guns      
"Donner & Blitzen" (Achim Koehler Mix) - Thor








A Very Metal Christmas II tracklisting:


"O Holy Night" - Glenn Hughes       
"Blue Christmas" - Jack Russell, Chris Holmes       
"Winter Wonderland" - Fast Eddie Clarke, Steve Overland
"All I Want For Christmas Is You" - Janet Gardner  
"Another Rock And Roll Christmas" - Paul Dianno, Paul Samson
"Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" - Marty Friedman         
"It's A Wonderful Life" - George Lynch & Jeff Pilson         
"Father Christmas" - Pretty Boy Floyd         
"Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town" - Gilby Clarke     
"Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" - Helix           
"Run, Rudolph Run" - Faster Pussycat       
"Silent Night" - Frank DiMino, Tracii Guns          
"What Child Is This?" - Glen Drover

In a new interview with Katie Daryl of AXS TV's "Now Listen", Duff McKagan was asked to name his favorite GUNS N' ROSES songs to perform at various points of his life, including in 1987, in 2016 and in 2023. He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "My favorite song [to play in 1987 was] 'Rocket Queen', just because we found this groove and we found all these cool connector parts that put that song together. Axl [Rose, GUNS N' ROSES singer] wrote a really cool lyric for it, and it became this soaring kind of song. [GUNS N' ROSES; 1987 debut album] 'Appetite [For Distortion]' was this little record we made that was gonna be for us and our friends and some rocker people that [were into us]… We were just going in and recording the songs that we wrote for ourselves and that some people in clubs really dug. So 'Rocket Queen' seemed this kind of next step, sort of next-level song, to me. So then you flash forward to 2016… I've always loved playing 'November Rain', 'cause it's just such a moment. Axl gets to sit down and you see all the lighters come out and Slash's solo is such a larger-than-life thing. [And now] I do like playing the few new songs we have — 'Hard Skool' and 'Absurd' and 'The General' and 'Perhaps'."

As previously reported, Duff will celebrate his recently released solo album "Lighthouse" by performing on December 8 at Easy Street Records in Seattle, Washington.

GUNS N' ROSES performed "The General" live for the first time on November 2 at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.

"The General" was the B-side of GUNS N' ROSES' recently released limited-edition seven-inch vinyl single titled "Perhaps", out now via Geffen Records.

Like "Perhaps", "The General" was written during the sessions for GUNS N' ROSES' "Chinese Democracy" album. It was previously talked about by ex-GN'R drummer Bryan "Brain" Mantia, who reportedly wrote some of the song's music and gave it its title, and former SKID ROW singer Sebastian Bach.

GUNS N' ROSES released a four-song EP, "Hard Skool", in February 2022. The effort, which was exclusive to the GUNS N' ROSES' official store, contained the two new songs the band released in 2021 — the title track and "Absurd" (stylized as "ABSUЯD") — as well as live versions of "Don't Cry" and "You're Crazy".

In September 2021, the guitarist and his bandmates dropped "Hard Skool", which came more than a month after their performance and subsequent official release of "Absurd", a reworking of GUNS N' ROSES previously unreleased "Silkworms".

Written by Rose and co-produced by Rose and Caram Costanzo, "Hard Skool", which had the working title "Jackie Chan", was originally recorded during GN'R's "Chinese Democracy" era but was eventually omitted from that album. Short clips of the song were later posted online and a full version was leaked in August 2019.

"Absurd" came out on August 6, 2021, three days after GUNS N' ROSES performed the tune live for the first time during its concert at Boston's Fenway Park.

GUNS N' ROSES last performed "Silkworms", which was also reportedly written during the "Chinese Democracy" sessions, in 2001.

This past July, PANTERA drummer Charlie Benante was interviewed by Danny Wimmer Presents' "Paranormal Prison" at Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio prior to the band's performance at the Inkcarceration Music & Tattoo Festival. Check out the report below.

Built in 1886, the Ohio State Reformatory served for 94 years as a working prison, housing more than 154,000 prisoners and setting the scene for major motion pictures, including "The Shawshank Redemption", "Air Force One" and others. Listed on the National Register Of Historic Places, the prison boasts the world's largest free-standing steel cellblock and is known as the ultimate place to ghost hunt.

By the 1920s, Ohio State Reformatory went from a prison used to reform small-time criminals to a full-fledged maximum security prison. It was eventually closed due to unsuitable conditions and overcrowding.

According to some estimates, 25,000 prisoners, including several corrections officers, lost their lives inside the prison walls.

"The Shawshank Redemption" was filmed at Ohio State Reformatory and central Ohio in June, July and August 1993.

Fan-filmed video of HELMET's November 12 concert at Slaktkyrkan in Stockholm, Sweden can be seen below.

HELMET is touring in support of its latest studio album, "Left", which was released on November 10 via earMUSIC. The trek is making stops in Germany, Scandinavia, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium and France before concluding on December 13 in London, United Kingdom.

For a complete list of tour dates, visit HelmetMusic.com.

After the critically acclaimed "Dead To The World" in 2016, HELMET is back with their signature blend of heavy, riff-loaded rock and evocative lyrics that have resonated with fans worldwide for over three decades. "Time for your holiday serial murder / How time slips away", resonate the opening lines of "Holiday". HELMET take no prisoners in their direct and unfiltered expression, leaving listeners with a lasting impact and a sense of urgency to examine the world around them.

"Left" sees HELMET — comprising frontman Page Hamilton, drummer Kyle Stevenson, guitarist Dan Beeman and bassist Dave Case — carve out a musical landscape that is taut, muscular, and direct. Hamilton's lead guitar lines feel like everything from downed power lines arcing to exploding resistors in shortwave radios. On "Left", every snare crack hits like gunfire, every solo seemingly a manifestation of rabies-induced psychosis.

Guided by Hamilton alongside co-producers Jim Kaufman and Mark Renk, and mastered by Howie Weinberg, the 11 songs on the new album are leaner and meaner in their execution than previous aural throwdowns. "Left" is powered by unbridled determination, a renewed sense of purpose and a desire to create more new dialects within the musical language Hamilton invented via his use of drop-D tuning.

In December 2021, Hamilton confirmed to the "Thunder Underground" podcast that he had begun working on material for HELMET's first album in more than six years.

HELMET's first official live album, "Live And Rare", was released in November 2021 via earMUSIC. It was made available on heavyweight black vinyl as well as a CD digipak edition and digital.

Although HELMET disbanded in 1997, Hamilton revived the band in 2004, and the group has continued to tour and record.

"Dead To The World" was released in October 2016 via earMUSIC. The effort was produced by Hamilton and mixed by Jay Baumgardner.

In 2021, HELMET released a cover of GANG OF FOUR's 1981 song "Into The Ditch". The track was recorded for a tribute album to GANG OF FOUR's guitarist Andy Gill, "The Problem Of Leisure: A Celebration Of Andy Gill And Gang Of Four".

Having cut his teeth playing with avant-garde guitar icon Glenn Branca and indie stalwarts BAND OF SUSANS, Hamilton launched HELMET in 1989, and the band released its debut album, "Strap It On", on the independent Amphetamine Reptile label the following year. HELMET soon became the subject of an unprecedented major-label bidding war, ultimately signing with Interscope and releasing "Meantime" in June 1992.

Even while the band was absent from the spotlight, HELMET continued to exercise considerable influence on multiple generations of bands. Their songs have been covered by the likes of CHEVELLE, DEFTONES, FAITH NO MORE, PIG DESTROYER and SOULFLY, and the band inspired a 2016 HELMET tribute album titled "Meantime Redux". HELMET has also been cited as a key influence on such bands as GODSMACK, KORN, MARILYN MANSON, MASTODON, PANTERA, QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, SEPULTURA, SLIPKNOT, STAIND, SYSTEM OF A DOWN and TOOL.

Platinum-selling rock juggernaut P.O.D. — Sonny Sandoval (vocals),Marcos Curiel (guitar) and Traa Daniels (bass) — kicked off the fall with the video for their new single "Drop", which features a vicious vocal cameo from LAMB OF GOD singer Randy Blythe. It earned quick press accolades from Metal Injection, Consequence, Revolver, Idioteq, The Pit, Yahoo! and Knotfest.

Today, P.O.D. is back with another blast and is sharing the video for the equally eruptive single "Afraid To Die", featuring JINJER vocalist Tatiana Shmayluk.

It's an anthemic song with an edge — and the collaboration was born of P.O.D. and JINJER's fall 2022 tour.

"'Afraid To Die' is a combination of cryptic and triumphant melodies," says Curiel. "It has storytelling rhymes and chugged verses, and a wide open, melodic yet semi-morbid, chorus. It's anthemic In every sense of the word."

He continues: "Our dear friend Tatiana Shmayluk offers her unique approach and we had incredible musical chemistry with her. This is P.O.D. hitting the human core of our existence and dealing with love, fear, integrity, and most of all, family and friends. It's ultimately an abundance of love and life."

"Afraid To Die" and "Drop" are taken from P.O.D.'s upcoming studio album, "Veritas", which will arrive next spring via Mascot.

In a recent interview with Ethan Jackson of Topeka's rock radio station KDVV/V100 conducted at this year's Rocklahoma festival, Curiel said about the "Veritas" album title: "It's the old Latin dialect. You know, the old one that the priests are laying down when people are demonly possessed. It stands for truth. It's our truth because we wrote this record during the pandemic. Individually and collectively, it's our truth as a band, what we've been through, what we've all been through during that time, dude.

"I can't wait for you guys to hear it, man," the guitarist added. "It's pretty cool. We also got Tatiana from JINJER on a track. And we have Cove Reber. He sang for SCARY KIDS [SCARING KIDS] and SAOSIN. And he also sings in a new band called DEAD AMERICAN. He's on a track."

This past August, Sandoval told "The Jesea Lee Show" about the progress of the songwriting and recording sessions for the three-time Grammy Award-nominated rock quartet's next studio album: "It's been a long progress, just because of COVID and everything. Once COVID hit, everybody thought, 'Well, we can make records and get everything out and get it ready to go.' But it was kind of a difficult thing for us because we're used to being together and writing together. So, it was a different process for us, but now it's mixed, mastered, ready to go, but we aren't releasing it till next year, because, you know, the way labels work. But it's cool, 'cause they're gonna waterfall like a bunch of different singles and stuff like that. So it should be cool. So hopefully by… The plan is by the time the record comes out, you would have already seen three videos or [heard] four or five songs."

Asked if the next P.O.D. album will see him and his bandmates returning to their "old-school" sound or if it will represent "a whole new era" for the group. Sonny said: "All we know how to do is be ourselves. But I think this album is definitely more rocking. The last album, 'Circles', was a little bit more on the alternative side and a little bit of all the elements of our styles and flavors. But this one, it's just kind of rock, you know what I mean? But I dig it. I think it's kind of the album that we needed. Not everybody gets all the different flavors and styles and the soulfulness of P.O.D. Sometimes I compare it to… I don't eat McDonald's, but they're the number one food chain for a reason. People, they know what they get, they know what to expect. I'm more of a foodie, so I like a great burger or maybe a steak. But people love their McDonald's, so sometimes you just kind of give 'em what they want."

P.O.D.'s latest album, "Circles", was released in November 2018 via Mascot Label Group. The disc saw the band collaborating with the Los Angeles-based production duo called the Heavy (Jason Bell and Jordan Miller),who ensured the album is contemporary sounding without losing any of the band's core sonic signifiers.

P.O.D. dropped "Satellite: 20th Anniversary Edition" as a double-CD and digitally in September 2021 through Rhino. Released a few days before the album's official anniversary, the 27-song collection introduced a newly remastered version of the original album, plus a selection of rarities, remixes, and four previously unreleased demos, including "Alive (Semi-Acoustic Version)". A few weeks later, "Satellite: 20th Anniversary Edition" was released on vinyl as a double-LP as a part of Rhino's Rocktober campaign.

After debuting at No. 6 on the Billboard 200, "Satellite" went on to sell more than seven million copies worldwide, including three million in the U.S. The record generated four singles: the title track, "Alive", "Youth Of The Nation" and "Boom". In addition to its commercial success, "Satellite" earned P.O.D. three Grammy nominations for "Alive" ("Best Hard Rock Performance", 2002),"Portrait" ("Best Metal Performance", 2003) and "Youth Of The Nation" ("Best Hard Rock Performance", 2003).

"Satellite: 20th Anniversary Edition" has a bonus disc that includes B-sides like "Critic" and "Sabbath" that were initially released in Europe, plus remixes for "Boom" by THE CRYSTAL METHOD and "Youth Of The Nation" by Mike$Ki.

Photo credit: Spencer Peck (@peckafilm) (courtesy of Atom Splitter PR)

In a new interview with CTV Morning Live, Geddy Lee was asked about the possibility of working with his former RUSH bandmate Alex Lifeson again. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "If I say anything about working with Alex, people run to the conclusion that RUSH is starting up again. That is not the case. Yes, Alex and I like each other a lot, still. We hang around with each other a lot. And we both have a desire to try to write songs together. We don't know whether that will bear fruit or not. If it does bear fruit, great. Then we might release some songs. If — that's always an 'if' there. But when people publish articles about that, they leave the 'if' out. So, yeah, I plan to get together with Al, and we plan to write some songs, but we don't know if they'll be any damn good, so we'll see what happens."

Earlier this month, Geddy, who is currently promoting his upcoming memoir "My Effin' Life", told Los Angeles Times that he he misses RUSH "enormously. It was hard for me when Neil [Peart, late RUSH drummer] announced he was going to retire, which is a word I refused to hear, la la la," he admitted. "Do I miss the adulation? No. But I miss the sound of the crowd a little bit. When I go see my friends on tour, I am jealous. They're still enjoying it."

He continued: "It's been eight years since the last RUSH gig. To start the whole thing up again takes an incredible amount of koyech [Yiddish for strength]. Would I do it again? [pauses] It's possible. Will I do something else musically? It's possible. Now that I've turned myself into a farkakte [Yiddish for lousy] writer, I have to get this out of the way first."

Asked if there could ever be another RUSH show, Geddy said: "There could be a show that paid tribute to the songs of RUSH. I would never say there will never be another RUSH show. We get approached all the time."

Pressed about whether drummers ever say, "If you continue without Neil, I'm available", Geddy said: "Again, all the time. At the Taylor Hawkins tribute concert [in September 2022], Alex and I played with Dave Grohl and a bunch of other drummers. Neil would have loved it. I know he was looking down at us — or looking up at us [laughs] — and thinking, 'Fuck, that would have been fun.'"

Lee previously discussed the possibility of making new music in a separate interview with Long Island Weekly. During that chat, he said: "I recently discovered a couple of songs that had been left off my solo album [2000's 'My Favourite Headache'). Listening to them was really quite fun and I decided that I wanted to see about fixing those up and just breathing some fresh air into them. And that experience reminded me of how much fun I have in the studio. So of course, my lifelong buddy and bandmate Alex and I would like to get back into the studio together and see what might happen. I have ideas that I'd like to flesh out on my own too. Once I finish all this crazy crap that I agreed to do — the book tour and the TV show and find some space for myself — I'd certainly like to start playing something. But I can't tell you right now because I'm just book touring it until I drop. And then I'll see where I land after I have a nice holiday with my wife and we'll go from there. I don't like to plan too far ahead anymore. I was scheduled up the wazoo with my partners in RUSH for over 45 years. Now, I have to prioritize other things."

To date, Lee has only released one solo album, the aforementioned "My Favourite Headache". The disc was recorded during a time when RUSH's future was uncertain. The band was in the midst of what would be a five-year break from the road following the tragic deaths of drummer Neil Peart's daughter and wife in 1997 and 1998, respectively.

In a separate interview with The Washington Post, Lee spoke about reuniting with Lifeson for last year's star-studded tribute concerts — one in London, one in Los Angeles — to pay tribute to late FOO FIGHTERS drummer Taylor Hawkins. They enlisted a few drummers — TOOL's Danny Carey, Omar Hakim, RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS' Chad Smith and Dave Grohl — to join them at the gigs. At the after-party, Paul McCartney congratulated them and urged them to get back on the road.

"It had been a taboo subject, and playing those songs again with a third person was the elephant in the room, and that kind of disappeared," Lee told The Washington Post. "It was nice to know that if we decide to go out, Alex and I, whether we went out as part of a new thing, or whether we just wanted to go out and play RUSH as RUSH, we could do that now."

Geddy also revealed that in October 2022, for the first time in years, Lee and Lifeson went down into Lee's home studio and jammed.

Although Lifeson was "excited as offers rolled in after the Hawkins shows," he ended up undergoing surgery in July for his long-standing stomach problems.

Asked if he plans on nudging his pal to get back onstage, Lee told The Washington Post: "He needs to feel good and feel healthy and strong. And then maybe we have a discussion."

A year and a half ago, Lifeson told Guitar World in an interview that he hadn't ruled out making new music with Lee. "We're not putting any pressure on it or anything," he said. "We had a lot of good years together and we still love each other very much. I talk to Geddy every other day — we're best friends. There's more to our life together than just writing music. So if it happens, it happens. And it'll happen when it happens."

Peart died in January 2020 after a three-year battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. He was 67 years old.

RUSH waited three days to announce Peart's passing, setting off shockwaves and an outpouring of grief from fans and musicians all over the world.
Lead vocalist, bassist & keyboardist of @rushtheband, Geddy Lee tells CTV Morning Live all about the behind-the-scenes moments of his infamous music career featured in his new memoir! 📖🎶https://t.co/zmaB0DLlpa

— CTV Morning Live (@CTVMorningLive) November 27, 2023

Australian metalcore trailblazers The Amity Affliction — Joel Birch [vocals], Ahren Stringer [vocals, bass], Dan Brown [lead guitar], and Joe Longobardi [drums] — dropped their new album Not Without My Ghosts, earlier this year via Pure Noise. Order at the Pure Nosise Pure Noise webshop.


Today, the band has shared the Prblm Chld remix for "Show Me Your God."


"When I first listened to this mix, I was instantly so happy with it," states Brown. "We've had things remixed or reimagined in the past and they've all been great to listen to. But generally, it takes time to warm up to them. This version of 'Show Me Your God' hooked me in straight away."







The Amity Affliction just wrapped a super successful U.S. tour supporting Parkway Drive and a sold-out tour of Australia. The band will be embarking on its biggest-ever European headline tour starting next week and running through December.


Not Without My Ghosts boasts multiple features — something the band has not incorporated into a release in quite some time — including late New Zealand rapper Louie Knuxx, who passed away in 2021, as well as Comeback Kid's Andrew Neufeld, The Plot in You's Landon Tewers, and Phem.