In a new interview with Kris Peters of Australia's Heavy, KREATOR frontman Mille Petrozza was asked how he thinks the band's goals and vision have changed in the four decades since KREATOR's inception. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Of course we progressed as musicians. I think the attitude is still the same. We love to play extreme metal. We love to explore new music. Every time we release an album, it's important for us that we do something that we haven't done before and that we push ourselves and put in new elements and try new things every time we release an album. But the attitude is still the same.

"I think over the years we established our own style and we wanna progress as musicians and we wanna come up with new stuff, exciting stuff," he continued. "We wanna keep our music exciting, and that's why we sometimes take five years between albums, sometimes three, four, but we never just put out something for the sake of it."

Asked how KREATOR's sound has evolved since the release of the band's debut album, "Endless Pain", in 1985, Mille said: "Like I said, we've progressed as musicians. We're more confident. We're more experienced, obviously. But sound-wise, the technology is so different nowadays, even though on [KREATOR's latest album, 2022's] 'Hate Über Alles', we went to an old-school studio called the Hansa studio [in Berlin, Germany], a studio where David Bowie worked in the '80s, U2 did some albums there, DEPECHE MODE worked there. So we keep it old school to some extent in order to keep sound-wise, sonically, just keep some of the elements from the early days. But I would lie to you if I would say we are not using computers. Of course, everybody's using computers nowadays. We're not blocking out this new technology and the possibilities of nowadays recording techniques. So it's a nice mix. But I think as long as the attitude is the same, and I think that's referring to your question, we still have the same energy we put into the music and we work very hard on keeping it fresh and exciting."

This past May, KREATOR released a music video for the song "Conquer And Destroy" from "Hate Über Alles". The performance footage was filmed on March 4, 2023 in front of 6,000 of KREATOR's mighty hordes in their spiritual home of Essen.

KREATOR's fifteenth studio album, "Hate Über Alles" was released in June 2022. The follow-up to "Gods Of Violence" was recorded at Hansa Tonstudio in Berlin, Germany. Helming the sessions was Arthur Rizk, who has previously worked with CAVALERA CONSPIRACY, CODE ORANGE, POWER TRIP and SOULFLY, among others.

The "Hate Über Alles" cover artwork was created by Eliran Kantor, who has previously worked with HATEBREED, SOULFLY, TESTAMENT, ICED EARTH and SODOM, among others.

"Hate Über Alles" marks KREATOR's first album with bassist Frédéric Leclercq, who joined the group in 2019.

In March 2020, KREATOR surprise-released a new single, "666 - World Divided". The song was produced by Andy Sneap and Markus Ganter and was recorded at Hansa Tonstudios.

KREATOR played its first show with Leclercq in October 2019 in Santiago, Chile.

Before joining KREATOR, Leclercq rose to fame with U.K.-based extreme power metallers DRAGONFORCE for whom he handled bass duties from 2005 until August 2019.

In a recent interview with Spain's The Metal Circus, founding JUDAS PRIEST guitarist Kenneth "K.K." Downing was asked what it was like to reunite with his former band for a performance at last year's Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame induction ceremony. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "It was a weird experience, because I was delighted when I was informed by JUDAS PRIEST management that we were being inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. But then I was gutted, myself and Les Binks, the [former PRIEST] drummer [who was also being inducted], when the management wrote to us and said, 'Just to let you know, you are guests of the band.' And I'm thinking, 'Oh, fuck. Here we go. We can't just all go up there and have a really nice time. It's gonna be like that.' So that's the way it was — separate slides, separate dressing rooms, separate hotels. Couldn't walk the red carpet with them. And I'm thinking, 'This is really disappointing.' I devoted my life to this, to that band. I devoted my life. I never left that band to record with other musicians, like Rob [Halford, PRIEST singer] did and Glenn [Tipton, PRIEST guitarist] did. I was loyal and true to JUDAS PRIEST because I started it. I introduced those guys into the band, and I was devoted to it, and I'm getting treated like this. And I'm thinking, 'This is bullshit.'"

Downing continued: "But anyway, I went there with Les. I said, 'C'mon. We'll go to L.A. Let's have a few beers and enjoy it as good as we can.' And that's what we did. But the onstage experience, to me, didn't really resemble what I remember. You know, you've got two drummers, three guitar players. I'm thinking, 'This a jam session. But anyway, I'm just gonna enjoy it and rock out.' And that's what I did."

Downing previously talked about his Rock Hall reunion with PRIEST during a September 2023 appearance on SiriusXM's "Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk". At the time, he said: "I deliberated [about attending the event]. I'm thinking, 'It's a long, long way to go, 'cause I'm not exactly sure how it's gonna all pan out.' But both myself and Les Binks, we were delighted when we heard from the management that we were gonna be inducted. That was great. But shortly after that, we had another e-mail saying, 'Just to let you know that you and Les are guests of the band.' So straight off the bat, I'm thinking, 'Oh, here we go. This is not exactly how I thought it would go.' And then, obviously, we were kept segregated — flights, dressing rooms, hotels, the red carpet — so it was just total segregation. And that was it."

He continued: "I really must [give a] shoutout to Richie [Faulkner, Downing's replacement in PRIEST]. Richie was great. He came in the dressing room a couple of times. We had a good few laughs. Because lots of people were coming to our dressing room. It was good. Dave Grohl popped his head in, 'cause he's such a lovely guy, so down to earth, and that was funny. We had a few laughs. And it was great. [I] didn't say anything to the other guys, but there it is. But to be honest, once I got on that stage and I did it, I was glad that I did it, because I think that, justifiably, I kind of earned that, really. And there was some energy — there was a lot of energy from myself and Richie — because I think Richie was thinking, 'I've gotta go toe-to-toe with this guy. Otherwise I'm just gonna look like a shadow or something.' But it was good. We worked it well together. But I have to be honest, it just didn't feel like it used to; it was far from it. I think we had — well, we had two drummers and three guitar players. So that's one reason why it didn't quite seem the same as before, really. But, yeah, it was fun, like I say. I'm so glad that I made the decision to go in the end."

Downing also discussed his reunion with PRIEST in a separate interview with Marko Syrjälä of Chaoszine, saying that the whole event was a bit surreal, seeing as none of the other artists being inducted into the Rock Hall were even remotely close to metal.

"Even right up until the performance, I wasn't sure," Downing admitted. "I kept saying to myself, 'Am I doing the right thing here? Is this really heavy metal? I'm with a bunch of guys that fucking hate me.' I'm looking at Ed Sheeran. I'm looking at Dolly Parton. I'm thinking, 'Fuck it. Am I in the right place? Is it all a dream?' [Laughs] I'm thinking, 'Oh, what the hell? Just grab the guitar and do it and get to the pub.' And that's what I did. I came off stage, put my clothes on, went straight back to the hotel bar and I had some beers and it was great."

K.K. also confirmed that he did have a brief chat with PRIEST singer Rob Halford at the Rock Hall. "Rob came over to me, and I [initially] didn't wanna speak to him, because he left the band for 14 years and I was instrumental in reinstating him back in the band, having him back in," Downing said. "And then he tells me that I can't rejoin the band. How does that work? I don't know how that works."

According to K.K., "it's Glenn [Tipton] and [PRIEST's longtime manager] Jayne [Andrews] who make all the decisions [for the band], and, I hate to say it, but Rob is just… I really think that… The only reason I spoke to Rob [at the Rock Hall] is because I think he's being controlled. That's the only reason. I don't believe that Rob voted not to have me [back] in [PRIEST]. I think he was forced to. I think Rob would have voted me in. But it was their choice. And now Richie's off doing his own thing with [his side project] ELEGANT WEAPONS and everything. So it's not looking great for him, really, is it?"

PRIEST received the Musical Excellence Award at last year's Rock Hall, which honored Eminem, Dolly Parton, DURAN DURAN, Lionel Richie, Pat Benatar, EURYTHMICS and Carly Simon in the Performers category.

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

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

Downing left PRIEST in 2011 amid claims of band conflict, shoddy management and declining quality of performance.

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

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

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

JUDAS PRIEST was on the ballot for Rock Hall induction in 2020, but failed to receive enough votes to make that year's class.

Having been eligible for induction since 1999, PRIEST was also on the ballot for the 2018 class of the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, but was ultimately left out of the inductee list.

THE GRATEFUL DEAD have tied the record for most Billboard Top 40 albums by any act in history. Having previously broken the record as the group with the most Top 40 albums, the band has just earned their 58th album in the Top 40, with the debut of "Dave's Picks Vol. 48" at No. 33 on this week's Billboard 200. THE GRATEFUL DEAD are now tied with both Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, and are just one release away from breaking the all-time record.

Produced and curated by GRATEFUL DEAD legacy manager and audio archivist David Lemieux, "Dave's Picks Vol. 48" is the 40th installment in the beloved series to enter the Top 40. Each edition delivers complete, top-grade GRATEFUL DEAD shows that sound better than ever, beautifully packaged and released four times a year. "Dave's Picks Vol. 48" is also THE GRATEFUL DEAD's 44th Top 40 title released by Rhino Entertainment, and as Lemieux says, "'Dave's Picks' is a testament to Rhino never veering off the path of its vision to treat Dead Heads with respect and caring."

"Working with THE GRATEFUL DEAD is such a unique experience because they really are one of one," adds Mark Pinkus, president of Rhino. "With over 2300 amazing shows in their illustrious 30-year career, Rhino has the wonderful responsibility to present those shows to new and old fans alike in a meaningful and magical way. Their continued chart success simply proves what we already know, there are still a lot of Dead Heads in the world and they dig what we do."

"This is a testament to the enduring connection between THE GRATEFUL DEAD and their audience — a bond that is as strong today as it ever was and now spans multiple generations with huge numbers of new followers discovering them every day," said Bernie Cahill, founding partner, Activist Artists Management and manager of THE GRATEFUL DEAD.

This latest achievement caps another milestone year for THE GRATEFUL DEAD and Dead Heads everywhere. As detailed in last week's 31st edition of the annual Grateful Dead Almanac, 2023 proved that the band's ecosystem is as vibrant and voluminous as ever. From the release of the "Here Comes Sunshine" box set to the 50th anniversary of "Wake Of The Flood", new installments of "The Angel's Share" outtakes and "Playing In The Band"'s interactive mixing board, and so much more, THE DEAD remains committed to serving their ever-expanding community and time-honored traditions, with a pioneering devotion to complete accessibility.

Rhino and the band continue to open their archives in unprecedented ways, and on today's episode of the "Good Ol' Grateful Deadcast", the podcast uncovers an extraordinary lost session by Robert Hunter and THE GRATEFUL DEAD — the only known time the band's legendary lyricist led the group in an extended studio session. Captured during the mixing session for the "Eyes Of The World" single in November 1973 and channeling the band's most experimental side, "Prelude" (a.k.a. "Tuesday Night Jam") is a 35-minute studio improvisation by THE DEAD (minus Jerry Garcia, working with OLD & IN THE WAY that night) with Hunter writing lyrics, overdubbing vocals with the group, and mixing the tape down over the course of a single evening, Tuesday, November 6, 1973. According to musician Donna Jean Godchaux-MacKay, the intent was to play the tape over the PA before GRATEFUL DEAD concerts, which they did several days later at Winterland in San Francisco. Along with a handful of never-heard Hunter/DEAD originals and improvisation on instruments not usually heard in THE DEAD's music, "Prelude" contains a rare duet of Keith and Donna Godchaux singing "Sweet Inspiration" the 1968 hit the couple sang together before joining THE DEAD.

Announced last week, "Dave's Picks Vol. 49" is due out in the first quarter of 2024 via Rhino, and will feature a four-CD mega set of two complete GRATEFUL DEAD shows at Stanford University's Frost Amphitheater on April 27 and 28, 1985. Before then, Rhino will also begin to reissue all eight albums from THE GRATEFUL DEAD's Arista years, 1977-1990. Dropping in pairs between now and July 2024, the series begins this Friday, November 10, with the band's final studio album, "Built To Last", and the three-LP collection of historic live performances from the late-Brent Mydland era, "Without A Net". Available to worldwide retail on limited edition black vinyl and Barnes & Noble exclusive red vinyl, each title has been newly remastered by Grammy Award-winning engineer David Glasser, and produced for release by David Lemieux.

THE GRATEFUL DEAD is a social and musical phenomenon that grew into a genuine American treasure. In 1965, an entire generation was linked together by common ideals, gathering by the hundreds and thousands. This movement created a seamless connection between the band and its fans. As the band toured, Dead Heads would follow. Not because it was a part of popular culture but because it is a true counterculture that exists to this very day-one that earnestly believes in the value of its beliefs. By 1995, THE GRATEFUL DEAD had attracted the most concertgoers in the history of the music business, and today remains one of the all-time leaders in concert ticket sales. Eventually, the caravan evolved into a community with various artists, craftsmen and entrepreneurs supplying a growing demand for merchandise that connected them to the music. Today, the connection is as strong as ever. The band was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 1994 and received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007. Their final tally of 2,318 total concerts remains a world record.

METALLICA set a new attendance record at St. Louis, Missouri venue Dome at America's Center on Friday (November 3) and Sunday (November 5),when the band's two headlining concerts brought in 100,000 attendees — the highest-ever attendance in the venue. Friday's show as part of METALLICA's "M72" tour also featured PANTERA and MAMMOTH WVH, while Sunday's gig included FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH and ICE NINE KILLS.

Earlier today, METALLICA shared the following message via social media: "The #MetallicaFamily made history during #M72STL. Over 100,000 tickets were sold to our No Repeat Weekend gigs at The Dome, setting the record for most tickets sold for any event since the venue opened in 1995! Thanks for coming out to see us, St. Louis!"

The "M72" tour features a bold new in-the-round stage design that relocates the famed METALLICA Snake Pit to center stage, allowing promoters to sell more tickets than usual. And since METALLICA's stage is hollow in the center, there is even more space available to accommodate fans.

According to Billboard, METALLICA's giant ring-shaped stage also includes eight towers of monitors and speakers, with each of the towers is anchored by a raised platform that doubles as VIP seating, with eight folding chairs decorated with the black-and-yellow color scheme of the band's new album, "72 Seasons".

In addition to selling out the Dome, METALLICA took over St. Louis for various fan activities, with METALLICA cover bands everywhere, a METALLICA film festival, a sold-out James Hetfield book signing, taste-test events for Blackened (METALLICA's whiskey brand),a special pop-up store for the band's merch, a METALLICA-themed bowling party and lots more.

According to the Riverfront Times, METALLICA's concerts in St. Louis were attended by fans from all over the country, including Kansas, Alaska, North Carolina and Texas.

This past August, METALLICA drew nearly 80,000 fans to the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles at the first of the band's two shows at the venue. It was the biggest crowd in the history of the SoCal stadium, which opened in September 2020. The San Francisco Bay Area-based metal legends drew a similarly sized capacity crowd two days later at the same venue.

Fans purchased more than 156,000 tickets for the two-concert stand, which was also part of METALLICA's "M72" world tour.

Taylor Swift's summer 2023 six-night bow at SoFi was attended by 420,000 ticket-holders, with 70,000-plus in attendance each time.

The "M72" tour launched in late April in Amsterdam.

A portion of proceeds from the shows go to METALLICA's All Within My Hands foundation, which seeks to assist and enrich the lives of members of the communities who have supported the band and combat food insecurity; provides disaster relief; and bestows scholarships.

METALLICA's production travels in 87 trucks — 45 for the band and its setup, plus two groups of 21 each for the steel stage and towers. There are 130 people in the band's crew, plus 40 steelworkers, local hires and truck drivers.

METALLICA's manager Cliff Burnstein told Billboard that between 80% and 90% of fans at each concert are attending both shows.

METALLICA's two-night stand at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas in August was livestreamed to movie theaters across the globe. It marked METALLICA's first appearance in Texas since November 2021, when the band played before, during and after a Triad Combat event at Globe Life Field.
The #MetallicaFamily made history during #M72STL. Over 100,000 tickets were sold to our No Repeat Weekend gigs at The Dome, setting the record for most tickets sold for any event since the venue opened in 1995! Thanks for coming out to see us, St. Louis! pic.twitter.com/tZRppfGTQD

— Metallica (@Metallica) November 7, 2023

Deko Entertainment is set to release Trapeze’s Medusa and You Are The Music... We're Just The Band albums on vinyl for the first time in over 40 years. Pre-orders are available now with only limited copies of each available.


Originally released in 1970, Medusa was recorded at Morgan Studios, and was produced by the Moody Blues bassist John Lodge. The line- up of Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple), Mel Galley (Whitesnake), and Dave Holland (Judas Priest) recorded this album and the follow up, You Are The Music... We're Just The Band, in 1972 before that lineup disbanded. You Are The Music... We're Just The Band also featured a wide range of guest performers, including guitarist B. J. Cole, pianist Rod Argent, and saxophonist Jimmy Hastings. Now, Deko Entertainment will reissue both albums, fully remastered and repackaged, on February 2, 2024 in the following configurations:


Medusa, not released on vinyl since 1979, has now has been fully remastered on 180-gram vinyl, an awesome gatefold sleeve, in two beautiful versions. The Platinum Edition – comes on transparent, 180-gram amber vinyl with purple, green, and black splatter (limited to 250 copies pressed), featuring a signed 10”x10” band photo by Glenn Hughes (limited to 100 copies). The Standard Edition – comes on gold nugget, 180-gram vinyl (limited to 250 copies pressed).




You Are the Music... We're Just the Band, not released on vinyl since 1978, has now has been fully remastered on 180-gram vinyl, in two beautiful versions.  The Platinum Edition – comes on 180-gram, white, red, and black twist vinyl (limited to 250 copies pressed), featuring a signed 10”x10” band photo by Glenn Hughes (limited to 100 copies).  The Standard Edition – comes on red galaxy, 180-gram vinyl, and handsomely repackaged (limited to 250 copies pressed).


Listen to original version of “Black Cloud” below.


Deko Entertainment president, Bruce Pucciarello, enthuses about Glenn Hughes, "Tremendously influential but not fairly credited with blending funk, rock, and energy together. Trapeze showed us that Glenn Hughes was a monster in rock well before he moved on to Deep Purple.”





Medusa tracklisting:


Side A
1. "Black Cloud"
2. "Jury"
3. "Your Love Is Alright"


Side B
1. "Touch My Life"
2. "Seafull"
3. "Makes You Wanna Cry"
4. "Medusa"


You Are The Music... We're Just The Band tracklisting:


Side A
1. "Keepin' Time"
2. "Coast to Coast"
3. "What Is a Woman's Role"
4. "Way Back to the Bone"


Side B
1. "Feelin' So Much Better Now"
2. "Will Our Love End"
3. "Loser"
4. "You Are the Music"

LAMB OF GOD has released a recap video of the first Headbangers Boat charter cruise, which made its way back to Miami, Florida on Saturday (November 4),one day after a man on the ship went overboard.

The incident transpired on the morning of Friday, November 3 as the Norwegian Pearl was sailing near the Bahamas on its way back to Port Miami, a spokesperson for cruise line Norwegian Cruise Line said.

According to Cruise Hive, a search for the missing 41-year-old passenger was quickly initiated. However, after a nine-hour search, the captain of Norwegian Pearl was forced to cancel the search and rescue mission, and the vessel resumed her course to Miami.

The U.S. Coast Guard told WFLA they conducted a search for the man who was last seen 20 miles east of Cay Say Bahamas around 4 a.m.

The Coast Guard was assisting the Royal Bahamas Defense Force in the search.

In a message accompanying the recap video, LAMB OF GOD said: "Thank you to everyone who joined us on the inaugural Headbangers Boat. It was truly one of the most special celebrations of heavy metal, bringing together artists spanning decades of music.

"We want to thank every single band, host, comedian, staff member and of course fan who made the trek to Miami and on-board with us. Overall, it was truly one of the most positive and fun atmospheres we've been a part of.

"It was shocking that a joyous occasion could so quickly turn tragic. While we don't know all of the specifics, we know every single person on that boat is part of our family, and we witnessed everyone onboard experience grief at the loss of one of our own. We couldn't have been more proud of how the metal community on board rallied together to support each other and celebrate heavy metal in the only way we know how. This music community truly is just that - a community.

"Thank you to MASTODON, TESTAMENT, HATEBREED, GWAR, MUNICIPAL WASTE, SHADOWS FALL, GOD FORBID, LACUNA COIL, GATECREEPER, FIT FOR AN AUTOPSY, VIO-LENCE, MALEVOLENCE, BLEED FROM WITHIN, DYING WISH, Jesse Leach, Jose Mangin, Riki Rachtman, Frank Castillo, Steve Furey and everyone else involved in making this inaugural event what it was."

According to Cruise Hive, the Headbangers Boat cruise was a special charter voyage, offering a unique blend of heavy metal music with LAMB OF GOD as the headliner. The charter cruise was organized by Sixthman, which is in partnership with Norwegian Cruise Line.

The second Headbangers Boat cruise will be held October 28, 2024 through November 1, 2024 aboard the Norwegian Gem ship and will cruise from Miami, Florida to Puerta Plata, Dominican Republic. So far, the following acts have been announced: LAMB OF GOD, DETHKLOK, CHIMAIRA, POISON THE WELL, AT THE GATES, SOULFLY, EXODUS, NAPALM DEATH, CORROSION OF CONFORMITY, AFTER THE BURIAL, CURRENTS, BLEEDING THROUGH, UNEARTH, EYEHATEGOD, FROZEN SOUL and UNITYTX. There will also be an appearance by LAMB OF GOD guitarist Mark Morton's solo band, as well as stand-up comedy by Shayne Smith and Mike Abrusci.



Thank you to everyone who joined us on the inaugural Headbangers Boat. It was truly one of the most special celebrations of heavy metal, bringing together artists spanning decades of music.

We want to thank every single band, host, comedian, staff member and of course fan who made the trek to Miami and on-board with us. Overall, it was truly one of the most positive and fun atmospheres we've been a part of.

It was shocking that a joyous occasion could so quickly turn tragic. While we don't know all of the specifics, we know every single person on that boat is part of our family, and we witnessed everyone onboard experience grief at the loss of one of our own. We couldn't have been more proud of how the metal community on board rallied together to support each other and celebrate heavy metal in the only way we know how. This music community truly is just that - a community.

Thank you to Mastodon, Testament, Hatebreed, Gwar, Municipal Waste, Shadows Fall, God Forbid, Lacuna Coil, Gatecreeper, Fit For An Autopsy, Vio-lence, Malevolence, Bleed From Within, Dying Wish, Jesse Leach, Jose Mangin, Riki Rachtman, Frank Castillo, Steve Furey and everyone else involved in making this inaugural event what it was.

-Lamb of God

Edited by Bryce Hall
Shot by Cameron Nunez & Ryan Watanabe

Posted by Lamb of God on Tuesday, November 7, 2023

Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne, along with their children Jack and Kelly, have released the ninth episode of their revived podcast. During the chat, they discussed what has been described as former OZZY OSBOURNE bassist Bob Daisley's "Holy Grail" — Bob's rehearsal tapes of the original "Blizzard Of Ozz" band with late Ozzy solo band guitarist Randy Rhoads. When Jack suggested that it should be up to Randy's family to decide whether those recordings should see the light of day, Sharon said: "Exactly." But Ozzy offered a more practical reason for why those tapes have not been made available to the public. "The quality sucks," he said. "The quality is fucking dreadful." Sharon concurred, saying: "[It was recorded] on a little cassette machine — on a tiny little cassette machine. And yeah, it's not for us to do anything with."

Back in March 2014, coinciding with the 32nd anniversary of Rhoads's death, Daisley posted some excerpts online of the seven hours of audio he recorded during the writing, rehearsing and recording sessions for Ozzy's first two classic solo albums, 1980's "Blizzard Of Ozz" and 1981's "Diary Of A Madman".

Daisley told Rock Cellar in a 2012 interview that the 30th-anniversary reissues of both albums could have featured the material as bonus content. He explained, "I offered to supply tapes of our rehearsals and writing sessions, to go as proper bonus material. And I just said that I wanted a royalty out of it, because it's my stuff. But they wouldn't do it because they didn't want to give me a royalty — they just wanted to buy it."

Rhoads and two others were killed on March 19, 1982 when the small plane they were flying in at Flying Baron Estates in Leesburg, Florida struck Ozzy's tour bus then crashed into a mansion. Rhoads was 25 years old.

Daisley said that he had "hours and hours of tapes" from the recording sessions, adding, "You can hear the songs changing, the different parts taking shape, and all this stuff would have been perfect bonus material for the box set. Sadly, the Osbournes are just too greedy and self-absorbed."

In a 2014 interview with Greg Prato of Songfacts, Bob stated about what it was like collaborating with Ozzy: "Good. It was easy. It flowed well. When the band was first together, it really was just Ozzy and Randy and me, because we were writing the stuff and auditioning drummers at the same time — we didn't have Lee [Kerslake]. That went on for a few months and we auditioned about 14 drummers until we found Lee. And we found Lee right before we had to go in to record the first album. Ozzy was fairly easy to work with. He was a bit down at first, because he'd just been fired from BLACK SABBATH and he was depressed and he was unsure of himself. It really damaged his confidence, being fired from BLACK SABBATH. But Randy and I used to encourage him and try to bring him up out of the doldrums. Writing with Ozzy was fairly easy because we had a little songwriting machine going. Randy and I would work on music together just sitting on chairs opposite each other, and then we'd put parts together and then we'd knock it off and Ozzy would sing a melody over it. His melodies were always good. Ozzy's good for melodies. Usually the music came first, Ozzy would sing a melody, and then I would take a tape away into my room and write lyrics by myself to Ozzy's phrasing and melodies that would fit with what he was comfortable with. He wasn't a lyricist and neither was Randy, so I had to wear the lyricist hat. But I enjoyed it. I like writing the lyrics. That's how we wrote together."

Regarding the writing process for "Crazy Train", Bob said: "Well, Randy had the basic riff, the signature riff. Then we worked on music together. He needed something to solo on so I came up with a chord pattern and the section for him to solo over. Before it was called 'Crazy Train', before we even had a title, Randy and I were working on the music. He had his effects pedals, and coming through his amp was a weird kind of chugging sound. It was a phase-y kind of psychedelic effect, this chugging sound that was coming through his amp from his effects pedal. Randy was into trains — he used to collect model trains and so did I. I've always been a train buff and so was Randy. So I said, 'Randy, that sounds like a train. But it sounds nuts.' And I said, 'A crazy train.' Well, that's when the title first was born. And then Ozzy was singing melodies and he was phrasing exactly how it ended up. And I started writing lyrics to it. When we demoed that song in the demo studio in Birmingham, before we'd done the album, before we had Lee Kerslake, we had another drummer with us named Dixie Lee. Dixie Lee was on the demos. We demoed four songs for the record company, Jet Records, so that they could hear what we were doing and what material we were going to be writing. The demo was 'Crazy Train', 'I Don't Know', 'You Looking at Me, Looking at You' and 'Goodbye To Romance'. We didn't have the last verse in 'Crazy Train' written at that stage, so Ozzy just sang whatever it was he sang, so that demo version has a different last verse. But I wrote the last verse for 'Crazy Train' when we were at Ridge Farm recording. So that's how all that came about. I've still got the lyrics sheet that I wrote the lyrics on."

When Prato expressed his surprise at the fact that those demos were never issued as part of a boxed set or something, Bob said: "Well, a couple of years ago when they planned to release the boxed set for the 30th anniversary, I went to Sharon's accountant who handles all her affairs and handles the publishing company and all that. I said, 'Well, I've got these demos and I've got tapes of this recording, outtakes, I've got rehearsal takes, I've got us just chatting, clowning about, songwriting tapes.' I said, 'I've got loads of stuff, I've got hours of it. Why don't you include that on the boxed set?' And I said, 'Well, I'm not just giving it away, I'm the only one that's got this stuff. So I want a royalty on it.' She wouldn't do it. She just wanted to buy it off me for a pittance and I said no. I'm not doing that again. I've been screwed enough."

After Prato told Daisley that he didn't blame him, Bob said: "The fans suffered. Everybody wants to hear that stuff and I was willing to put it out there. But I said, I'm not just giving it to her. Because also what I have to be careful of is if they control it, they can edit it to make it sound like that same old fairytale that they come up with about how Ozzy and Randy wrote everything, which is total bollocks."

Daisley's and drummer Lee Kerslake's parts were removed from earlier reissues of "Blizzard Of Ozz" and "Diary Of A Madman" and replaced by new recordings played by METALLICA's Robert Trujillo and FAITH NO MORE's Mike Bordin after a dispute with Sharon Osbourne over royalties. They were restored for the 30th-anniversary editions.

Ozzy told The Pulse of Radio he was against the idea of replacing the original tracks when he found out about it. "Believe me, it wasn't my doing," he said. "I mean, I didn't know that was being done, 'cause Sharon was fighting all the legal things that were going down at the time. I said, 'What did you do that for?' And she said, 'The only way I could stop everything was if it went to that level.' And I said, 'You know what, whatever the circumstances were, I want the original thing back.' I mean, I wouldn't have done that."

Daisley says that he and Kerslake were fired because of disagreements with Sharon over a number of things, including refusing to do two shows in one day out of worry that Ozzy would blow out his voice.

Cavalera, featuring Sepultura founding members Max and Igor "Iggor" Cavalera, recently released the re-recorded versions of  Sepultura's first EP Bestial Devastation, and their first full-length album Morbid Visions, via Nuclear Blast Records.


Today, the band offers fans the lyric video created by Costin Chioreanu for "Necromancer" from the Bestial Devastation EP.


Max Cavalera states, "'Necromancer' stands out on the EP. The new version and video bring to life the magic that started 40 years ago. I consider it my first 'big' song!"




Iggor Cavalera comments, “'Necromancer' is a very special song for me, it is such a powerful force of riffs, beats, and screams. The video has a super cool vibe, dark and creepy."





Morbid Visions and Bestial Devastation were re-recorded at The Platinum Underground. The albums were produced by Max Cavalera and Iggor Cavalera while John Aquilino handled the engineering. Arthur Rizk was responsible for the mixing and mastering of both albums. Cavalera enlisted Eliran Kantor to create the artwork for both albums.


Order/save Morbid Visions here. Order/save Bestial Devastation here.





Morbid Visions tracklisting:


"Morbid Visions"
"Mayhem"
"Troops Of Doom"
"War"
"Crucifixion"
"Show Me The Wrath"
"Funeral Rites"
"Empire Of The Damned"
"Burn The Dead"


"Troops Of Doom" animated video:





"Morbid Visions" lyric video:








Bestial Devastation tracklisting:


"The Curse"
"Bestial Devastation"
"Antichrist"
"Necromancer"
"Warriors Of Death"
"Sexta Feira 13"


"Bestial Devastation" lyric video:





In two days, Cavalera will embark on their Morbid Devastation UK/European Tour. Accompanying the brothers on stage will be Igor Amadeus Cavalera fulfilling bass duties and Travis Stone will be supplying lead guitars. Incite will be opening the tour package each night.


Find tickets here.





Dates:


November
9 - Wolverhampton, UK - Steel Mill
10 - Manchester, UK - Academy
11 - London, UK - Shepherd's Bush Empire
12 - Lille, France - Aeronef
13 - Paris, France - La Machine
15 - Tilburg, Netherlands - 013
16 - Ghent, Belgium - Vooruit
17 - Wiesbaden, Germany - Schlachthof
18 - Pratteln, Switzerland - Konzerfabrik
20 - Copenhagen, Denmark - Pumphuset
21 - Oslo, Norway - Rockefeller
22 - Stockholm, Sweden - Debaser
24 - Cologne, Germany - Kantine
25 - Leipizg, Germany - Hellraiser
26 - Berlin, Germany - Metropol
27 - Warsaw, Poland - Stodola
28 - Krakow, Poland - Studio
29 - Vienna, Austria - Szene
30 - Budapest, Hungary - Dure Kert


December
2 - Zlin, Czech Republic - Winter Masters Of Rock

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

Launching on March 22, 2024 in Houston, Texas at Hell's Heroes festival and running until May 12 in Ft. Meyers, Florida, "The Origins Tour" will see QUEENSRŸCHE — singer Todd La Torre, guitarists Michael Wilton and Mike Stone, bassist Eddie Jackson and drummer Casey Grillo — joined on most dates by another highly respected/influential band that also launched in the '80s, ARMORED SAINT.

Tickets will go on sale on Friday, November 10 at 10:00 a.m. local time.

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

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

QUEENSRŸCHE "The Origins Tour" dates with ARMORED SAINT:

Mar. 22 - Hell's Heroes Festival * - Houston, TX USA
Mar. 23 - Tower Theatre * - Oklahoma City, OK USA
Mar. 26 - Sycuan Casino * - El Cajon, CA USA
Mar. 27 - House of Blues - Anaheim, CA USA
Mar. 28 - Ace of Spades - Sacramento, CA USA
Mar. 31 - Neptune Theatre - Seattle, WA USA
Apr. 02 - Black Sheep - Colorado Springs, CO USA
Apr. 03 - Gothic Theatre - Englewood, CO USA
Apr. 05 - Ameristar Casino & Hotel * - Kansas City, MO USA
Apr. 06 - Delmar Hall - St Louis, MO USA
Apr. 07 - Paramount Theatre - Cedar Rapids, MI USA
Apr. 09 - Coronado Theatre - Rockford, IL USA
Apr. 10 - Peoria Civic Center - Peoria, IL USA
Apr. 12 - The Vogue - Indianapolis, IN USA
Apr. 13 - State Theatre - Kalamazoo, MI USA
Apr. 14 - Majestic Theatre - Detroit, MI USA
Apr. 16 - Bogart’s - Cincinnati, OH USA
Apr. 17 - House of Blues - Cleveland, OH USA
Apr. 19 - Phoenix Theatre - Toronto - CA
Apr. 20 - Théâtre Beanfield - Montreal - CA
Apr. 21 - Elements - Kitchener - CA
Apr. 24 - Roxian Theatre - Pittsburgh, PA USA
Apr. 26 - Empire Live - Albany, NY USA
Apr. 27 - Palladium - Worcester, MA USA
Apr. 28 - Toad’s - New Haven, CT USA
Apr. 30 - Starland Ballroom - Sayreville, NJ USA
May 01 - Keswick Theatre - Glenside, PA USA
May 03 - The Paramount - Huntington, NY USA
May 05 - The Fillmore - Charlotte, NC USA
May 07 - Masquerade – Atlanta, GA USA
May 09 - Jannus Live - St. Petersburg, FL USA
May 10 - The Plaza Live – Orlando, FL USA
May 11 - Culture Room - Ft. Lauderdale, FL USA
May 12 - The Ranch - Ft. Meyers, FL USA

* no ARMORED SAINT

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo by Silly Robot Studios

Frontiers Music Srl recently announced the upcoming release from Blue Öyster Cult, entitled 50th Anniversary Live - First Night, on December 8. Watch the official video for "Screams" from the upcoming release below.


The legendary American hard rock band, Blue Öyster Cult, celebrated their 50th Anniversary with a very special set of 3 sold-out shows in a row in September 2022 at Sony Hall in NYC.


For this historic career milestone, each show featured the band playing in its entirety one of their first three albums ('Blue Öyster Cult', 'Tyranny and Mutation', and 'Secret Treaties'), followed by a set of deep cuts and classics from their other albums. Founding member Albert Bouchard was a special guest on all three nights.




The band played for nearly 3 hours and delivered an amazing set performing the S/T debut album back to back and the second set also included some fans’ favorite and deep cuts along with some of their best-known songs. Blue Öyster Cult were truly on fire. All in, they played for nearly three hours for the delight of the fans that filled the venue. Frontiers will release each night as a special individual package.


For over five decades, Blue Öyster Cult has been thrilling fans of intelligent hard rock worldwide with powerful albums loaded with classic songs. Indeed, the Long Island, NY-based band is revered within the hard rock and heavy metal scene for its pioneering work. They occupy a unique place in rock history, because it’s one of very few hard rock/heavy metal bands to earn both genuine mainstream critical acclaim and commercial success.


The band is often cited as a major influence by other acts such as Metallica, and BÖC was listed in VH1’s countdown of the greatest hard rock bands of all time.


Upon the release of BÖC’s self-titled debut album in 1972, the band was praised for its catchy-yet-heavy music and lyrics that could be provocative, terrifying, funny or ambiguous, often all in the same song. BÖC’s canon includes three stone-cold classic songs that will waft through the cosmos long after the sun has burned out: The truly haunting “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” from 1976’s Agents Of Fortune, the pummeling “Godzilla” from 1977’s Spectres, and the hypnotically melodic “Burnin’ For You” from 1981’s Fire Of Unknown Origin. Other notable BÖC songs include “Cities On Flame With Rock And Roll,” “Then Came The Last Days Of May,” “I Love The Night,” “In Thee,” “Veteran of the Psychic Wars,” “Dominance And Submission,” “Astronomy,” “Black Blade” and “Shooting Shark.”


The intense creative vision of BÖC’s original core duo of vocalist/lead guitarist Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser and vocalist/rhythm guitarist Eric Bloom is complemented by Richie Castellano on guitar and keyboards, and the longtime rhythm section of bass guitarist Danny Miranda and drummer Jules Radino.


“We realized we’re a ‘classic rock’ band. That’s what we are, that’s what we do best, and that’s what we know,” declares the band.


They’re proud of BÖC’s classic sound, and pleased the band is creating vibrant work for disenfranchised music lovers who don’t like the homogenized, prefabricated pop or sound-alike, formulaic rap-metal that monopolizes the radio airwaves and best-seller charts.


Pre-order 50th Anniversary Live - First Night here.





Tracklisting:


Disc 1:
"Transmaniacon MC"
"I’m On The Lamb But I Ain’t No Sheep"
"Then Came The Last Days Of May"
"Stairway To The Stars"
"Before The Kiss, A Redcap"
"Screams"
"She’s As Beautiful As A Foot"
"Cities On Flame With Rock And Roll"
"Workshop Of The Telescopes"
"Redeemed"


Disc 2:
"Dr. Music"
"Burnin’ For You"
"Train True (Lenny’s Song)"
"Tainted Blood"
"Harvest Moon"
"Dancin’ In The Ruins"
"The Vigil"
"Career Of Evil"
"Box In My Head"
"Godzilla"
"(Don’t Fear) The Reaper"
"In Thee"
"That Was Me"
"Hot Rails To Hell"


DVD - Blu-ray:


"Transmaniacon MC"
"I’m On The Lamb But I Ain’t No Sheep"
"Then Came The Last Days Of May"
"Stairway To The Stars"
"Before The Kiss, A Redcap"
"Screams"
"She’s As Beautiful As A Foot"
"Cities On Flame With Rock And Roll"
"Workshop Of The Telescopes"
"Redeemed"
"Dr. Music"
"Burnin’ For You"
"Train True (Lenny’s Song)"
"Tainted Blood"
"Harvest Moon"
"Dancin’ In The Ruins"
"The Vigil"
"Career Of Evil"
"Box In My Head"
"Godzilla"
"(Don’t Fear) The Reaper"
"In Thee"
"That Was Me"
"Hot Rails To Hell"








Blue Öyster Cult are:


Eric Bloom – Guitars, Keyboards, Vocals
Donald “Buck Dharma ” Roeser – Guitars, Vocals
Richie Castellano – Guitars, Keyboards, Vocals
Danny Miranda – Bass, Vocals
Jules Radino – Drums


Special Guest:


Albert Bouchard - Drums, Percussion, Guitars, Vocals

The new album, No Turning Back - In Memory Of Dan McCafferty is set to be released on December 7 via ROAR! Rock Of Angels Records.


Dan McCafferty’s name will not be forgotten, his memorable songs continue to play on countless rock radio stations around the world. Now the public is learning that undiscovered treasures were stored in McCafferty's private archives. Some of them can now be found on the posthumous homage: No Turning Back - In Memory Of Dan McCafferty.


The previously unreleased songs "Occident" and "No Turning Back" are original recordings from the late 1990s that McCafferty made with German director, composer and music producer Christoph Busse. The previously unreleased track "Children's Eyes" comes from a cooperation with the composer and producer Detlef Wiedeke. All three titles were tailor-made for McCafferty and show the stylistically enormous range of his rough rock voice.




With "Into The Ring", "Starry Eyes" and "Sunny Island", three more pieces worth listening to follow from a particularly eventful career phase of the Scottish musician. Written by McCafferty himself, the songs were released on his now long-out-of-print solo album Into The Ring in 1987. The album was created between the two Nazareth classics Cinema (1986) and Snakes'n'Ladders (1989) and shows how imaginative the exceptional singer also acted outside of his band.


No Turning Back - In Memory Of Dan McCafferty is rounded off with "Going Home" from 1993 and from the eponymous album by the short-lived project Seasons, with partly original Scottish and Irish bagpipes, fiddles, flutes and percussion instruments. The song is based on the piece "Largo" from the 9th symphony "From The New World" by Antonín Dvořák.


There are also two current cover versions of the Nazareth evergreens "Love Hurts" (watch a video below) and "Dream On" as bonus tracks, sung by the Greek Panos Kalifis, whose vocal color is remarkably similar to McCafferty's. The songs were recorded and mixed by the renowned sound engineer Bob Katsionis (Firewind, Kamelot, etc.).


Last but not least: The album cover features a photo of young Dan McCafferty, while the twelve pencil and charcoal illustrations in the atmospheric booklet are by Welsh artist Martyn Dunn and reflect the respective songs and lyrics. So No Turning Back - In Memory Of Dan McCafferty is both a musical and visual treat for any McCafferty/Nazareth fan!


Pre-order here.





Tracklisting:


"Children’s Eyes" (previously unreleased)
"Into The Ring"
"Starry Eyes"
"Sunny Island"
"Occident" (previously unreleased)
"No Turning Back" (previously unreleased)
"Going Home"
"Love Hurts" (Sung by Panos Kalifis)
"Dream On" (Sung by Panos Kalifis)


"Love Hurts" video:





Executive producer: Ritchie Kück-Michelmann

In a new video interview with music journalist Joel Gausten, veteran musician and songwriter Richard Duguay (Personality Crisis, Duff McKagan, solo artist) discusses his history in the Canadian and Los Angeles music scenes, recording with Mike Hudson of Cleveland Punk legends The Pagans, touring in Duff McKagan’s solo band, and how he ended up performing on Guns N’ Roses’ 1993 album, The Spaghetti Incident? Excerpts from the interview appear below.


On watching his longtime friend McKagan achieve worldwide fame with Guns N’ Roses


Duguay: "Growing up reading Circus, Creem, and Hit Parader, you’d see Zeppelin, The Who, The Stones, whoever – like the biggest bands in the world. The dreamer in me would be like, 'Fuck, that would be amazing!' But then to see a friend’s band accomplish that — they were the biggest band in the world for three or four years, whatever it was. It was kind of like The Twilight Zone, a lot of it. There was the obvious drink and drugs and stuff like that, which probably didn’t help the surrealness of it all. At least in my opinion, nobody is prepared for that kind of leap into the stratosphere or however you term it. One minute you’re playing Raji’s or the Coconut Teaszer, and then the next minute you’re opening up for The Stones in front of 80,000 people or whatever – and then THEY were drawing 80,000 people on their own. I’ve been asked many times, 'Did it change him?' It HAS to change you. He was always super-cool, and he didn’t ever lose that part where he was friendly and a great cat, but it fucks with your head. Things would happen where, from my point of view anyway, obviously people were taking advantage of him. That goes with the territory; there’s just no way around that. But it also made not just him but some of the other guys in the band very wary of people."




On playing guitar on the cover of Johnny Thunders’ "You Can’t Put Your Arms Around A Memory" that appeared on Guns N’ Roses’, The Spaghetti Incident?


Duguay: "I was sitting at home, and I get a phone call and it’s Duff. He was down at some studio down on Melrose, towards the freeway. He goes, 'Hey, do you know 'You Can’t Put Your Arms Around A Memory'?' I’m like, 'Yeah.' He goes, 'Well, come on down.' It was for a solo record, originally. So, I went down there and got it done, and I really didn’t think much of it. Then his solo record (1993’s Believe In Me) came out, and I was like, 'What happened to the song? Is it going to be a B-side or whatever?' He goes, 'No. Actually, Axl (Rose) heard it and demanded that it went on The Spaghetti Incident? – which was interesting. People are always impressed with that stuff, (but) I can honestly say that I’ve had (my Platinum album award) for 30 years and have not once ever put it up. It makes me kind of feel weird. I don’t know. If it had been a song I wrote or co-wrote, would it be different? It’s not an ego thing; it’s just a fucking Johnny Thunders song. It’s a brilliant song; don’t get me wrong. I love it. I’m proud that it is what it is, of course, but I never wanted to live in the past. What’s most important is what I’m doing today. With bios and stuff, I would never put that I played on that record."


Richard Duguay’s latest solo album, Beautiful Decline, was released earlier this year and is available at this location.








Photo by R.D Cane

German power metallers Sculforge, signed to MDD Records, released their critically acclaimed debut album, Intergalactic Battle Tunes, at the end of June. They have released an official video for the new single "Kings Of The Battlefield". Check it out below.


The band comments: "This song is for all those who always get up again, even if life permanently kicks them in the face! In a world that seems to get darker every day, positive songs like this are needed!" 







Experience the epic saga of intergalactic warfare like never before with Sculforge's debut album, Intergalactic Battle Tunes. This groundbreaking high-speed power metal journey takes you from the dark side of the moon, through the Milky Way, and beyond!


When cabin fever struck seasoned musicians Polly McSculwood (vox, guit.) and Fabz McBlackscul (guitars) during lockdown in 2020, boredom ignited a grandiose idea: Sculforge. With Polly's passion for everything Sci-Fi, fantasy RPGs, PC games, and literature, the pair decided to weave an epic tale that echoes the vast, chaotic world of Warhammer 40K, where progress happens only on the battlefield.


Intergalactic Battle Tunes packs an epic punch with 26 riveting tracks. Each song is an intricate tapestry of power and thrash metal, punctuated by radio-play-like interludes that progress the thrilling narrative. Standouts include "Into The Never", "For The Omnisavior" and "The Sculforge Inn Incident." This album isn't just a collection of songs—it's a high-octane journey through time and space.


The band's unique line-up includes Polly McSculwood (Vocals & Guitar), Fabz McBlackscul (Guitar), Ariz Guinto (Bass), and Chris Merzinsky (Drums & Piano), all contributing to a virtuoso and fresh musical experience that fans of Helloween, Rhapsody, and Blind Guardian will adore.


Capturing the frenetic energy of their concept, the album was meticulously recorded at Hell’s Kitchen Studio Berlin and produced, mixed, and mastered by Fabian Pospiech & Sculforge. The cover by Aleh_z, and artwork by Oliver Göler & Fabian Pospiech, complement the saga's vast, mysterious universe.





Tracklist:


"Into The Never"
"Lost In The Warp"
"Forbidden Knowledge"
"For The Omnisavior"
"For Honor"
"Spacehull"
"Lost And Found"
"Dark Ruins"
"The Sovereign Protects"
"Secrets Unlocked"
"Slave To The Machine"
"The Extraction"
"Extermination"
"A New Hope"
"Castilla Stands"
"Glorious"
"Schwanengesang"
"The Escape"
"Epitaph"
"Kings Of The Battlefield"
"Reign Of Chaos"
"Follow Me"
"Into The Depths"
"Heart Of Darkness"
"The Sculforge Inn Incident"
"Sculforge Inn"


"Glorious"

X JAPAN bassist Hiroshi "Heath" Morie died at the end of October at the age of 55. He had been battling cancer for several months.

According to Yahoo! Japan, Heath had struggled with his health since the beginning of the year. After seeing a doctor, he was diagnosed with cancer. By that time, the disease had already progressed so far that Heath did not have the chance to share the news of his battle against cancer with any of his bandmates.

Upon hearing news of Heath's passing, X JAPAN drummer, pianist and leader Yoshiki canceled his scheduled November 1 appearance at the 37th "Award Of Honor" gala in San Francisco due to what was described at the time as "an unexpected loss in the family."

X JAPAN, one of the most successful rock groups in Japanese history, released its first new single in eight years, "Angel", in July.

X JAPAN has achieved legendary status among rock fans worldwide, making a buzz at Coachella, headlining major venues such as Wembley Arena and Madison Square Garden, and selling out Japan's 55,000-seat Tokyo Dome a record 18 times.

Prior to the arrival of "Angel", the last single from X JAPAN was 2015's "Born To Be Free", and the critically acclaimed documentary film about the band, "We Are X", was released in 2018 in 30 countries, winning awards at the SXSW and Sundance film festivals.

Recently, X JAPAN became the center of controversy when Elon Musk announced he was rebranding Japanese Twitter as "X Japan", causing fans across the globe to respond in support of the band's trademark and supporting them as the country's only true "X JAPAN".

X JAPAN has sold more than 30 million albums, singles, and videos combined and played to millions of fans around the world.

In 1997, at the height of their success, the band broke up. In early 2007, Yoshiki and vocalist Toshi reunited, and later that year X JAPAN officially reformed.

The band launched its reunion in 2008 with three nights at the Tokyo Dome. In 2010, X JAPAN performed for the first time at Lollapalooza in Chicago. Immediately following the festival, X JAPAN played the biggest concert in its history, selling out two consecutive shows at Japan's Nissan Stadium, filling 140,000 seats. The band then launched their first North American tour, selling out across the U.S. and Canada.

X JAPAN made their Coachella debut in 2018, and the band performed three sold-out concerts at Makuhari Messe in September 2018 for 100,000 fans.

Canadian progressive metal force Visions Of Morpheus announces the release of their debut album, Lost Within, set to hit store shelves on November 18, 2023.


Formed by Jeff Pearson as a solo project, Visions Of Morpheus quickly evolved into a full-fledged band ready to make its mark on the metal scene. Influenced by titans such as Symphony X, Dream Theater, and Iron Maiden, this Oshawa-based outfit has spent the past year and a half honing a unique sound that skilfully blends symphonic, progressive, and straight-up metal.


Lost Within promises a journey through dreams and nightmares, a theme that permeates the album’s lyrical content and musical composition. The artwork and tracklisting are as follows:







"Catharsis" 
"Watch The World Burn" 
"Medusa" 
"Lost Within" 
"Power Of Seven" 
"Ghost" 
"Beyond" 
"Cloak Of The Night" 
"Outrun The Past" 
"Through Fire And Flame" 
"Eye Of The Storm"


"Catharsis":





For further details, visit Visions Of Morpheus on Facebook.


 

With two shows in, The Dead Daisies are on fire and burning up the trail as they make their way across Europe for the November tour. After a long flight from Japan to Switzerland to play their first show at the Z7 in Pratteln, which was packed with fans eager to see the band fronted by John Corabi once more, they rocked the place before flying to the City of Love, Paris.


La Machine Du Moulin Rouge was near capacity by the time the band hit the stage with "Resurrected". With another nine shows on this leg of the European tour, after going by the first two shows, The Dead Daisies are going to rock everywhere they play, so if you don’t have your ticket yet, you need to get it now!







The Dead Daisies are currently on tour in Europe. Their next show is November 7 at La Rayonne in Lyon, France. Their complete live itinerary can be found here.





 

According to Deadline, IRON MAIDEN singer Bruce Dickinson will star in a new horror movie called "Bjorn Of The Dead".

The film was written by Bruce's son Austin Dickinson and is based on an original story by Andrew Prendergast, who is producing the movie, along with Austin Dickinson.

Directed by Elza Kephart ("Slaxx"),the film "centers around an ABBA tribute band who find themselves, along with other tribute acts, trapped in a nightclub at the start of the apocalypse," reports the site. "Bjorn and his band must work together to save themselves, humanity, and the future of music."

Deadline also notes, "In addition to Bruce Dickinson, the film will have various cameos from the world of rock and heavy metal." It is described as a "blood-drenched gore fest."

Here's the full official plot synopsis, according to Deadline: "Bjorn, lead singer in ABBATOIR, and his band mates Benny, Anni-Frid, and Agnetha spend their weekends covering ABBA classics at a variety of increasingly depressing venues, from old folks' homes to empty pub back rooms. It's a grind and the band is ready to call it a day when Benny, the band's oldest and most needy member, hears of a Battle Of The Bands competition for tribute bands at The Niney Dimey. As the band arrives to load in their gear, things begin to go awry rather quickly. A disturbance in the main room of the venue rapidly gets out of control forcing Bjorn and his band to take cover backstage. Some of the other bands are injured from the fracas outside, injuries which soon present a problem when the wounded begin to metamorphose into bloodthirsty undead."

Raven Banner is handing worldwide sales on the film.

Back in 2008, Bruce co-wrote a low-budget horror movie called "Chemical Wedding", inspired by the singer's love of classic Hammer Horror films and their ilk, as well as his fascination with occultist Aleister Crowley. Released in the U.S. under the name "Crowley", the film was critically panned, with Den Of Geek writing, "It just feels like it was shot from an unpolished first draft," while The Guardian said it was "unintentionally funny and indifferently acted… But it's never boring."

In a new interview with Meltdown of Detroit's WRIF radio station, Joe Bonamassa was asked about iconic guitarist Jeff Beck's musical legacy. He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "I've done a bunch of shows with him in Europe, festivals we did, these bills with him. And his show was always amazing. To me, he was the greatest rock guitar player of all time, because for six decades he would reinvent himself every decade and come up with something that I'd go, 'Oh, man. I wish I thought of that.' He was just so creative and so influential. I mean, when [David] Gilmour says Beck is his favorite… Beck's at the top of everybody's lists — it's either Eddie [Van Halen] or Jeff, and sadly they're both gone. I mean, it's, it's crazy, this world now."

He continued: "But I will say this about Jeff Beck: the most entertaining and the most incredible guitar playing I've ever heard was when Jeff was just sitting in his dressing room. He had a little guitar amp and he had his guitar and he was just playing to kill time before the show. And you just hear everything from Cliff Gallup to these insane phrases and melodies. And you're, like. 'The guy's not human. He's not human.' And it would just be improv. And he would call me in every once in a while and be, like, 'Hey, check this thing out.' And he'd hand me his guitar. And it played high action and it was set up for him. And you'd just go, this guy, he lives in rarefied air, talent wise, that not a lot of people will experience in their life."

Beck, who rose to prominence with THE YARDBIRDS, died "suddenly" on January 10, 2023 after contracting bacterial meningitis, his representative said.

Having cultivated one of the most influential careers in rock history, Beck was universally acknowledged as one of the most talented and significant guitarists in the world, and has played alongside some of the greatest artists of rock, blues and jazz.

Over the course of his distinguished 50-plus-year music career, he had earned an incredible eight Grammy Awards, been ranked by Rolling Stone as one of the "100 Greatest Guitarists Of All Time," and been inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame twice — once as a member of THE YARDBIRDS and again as a solo artist. In the summer of 2016, the guitar virtuoso celebrated his five decades of music with an extraordinary concert at the famous Hollywood Bowl.