Three titans of progressive rock, Nick D’Virgilio (Big Big Train), Neal Morse (Transatlantic, NMB) & Ross Jennings (Haken, Novena) joined forces in 2021 for their Troika album, a record that saw them exploring their love of more acoustic-led music and three-part vocal harmonies. Recently, the band revealed that the follow-up, aptly titled Sophomore, will be released November 10.


In the new video below, Ross Jennings unboxes the vinyl and CD editions of the new album:







Sophomore will be available on Limited CD Edition (incl. 2 bonus tracks), Ltd Gatefold Transparent Red LP, Ltd Gatefold Transparent Blue LP & as Digital Album. Pre-order here.





Tracklisting:


"Hard To Be Easy"
"Linger At The Edge Of My Memory"
"Tiny Little Fires"
"Right Where You Should Be"
"The Weary One"
"Mama"
"I’m Not Afraid"
"Weighs Me Down"
"Walking On Water"
"Anywhere The Wind Blows"
"Right Where You Should Be" (Alternative Version)*
"The Weary One" (Alternative Version)*


* CD bonus tracks


"Tiny Little Fires" video:





"Anywhere The Wind Blows" video:





The three musicians began trading song ideas in late 2022, before choosing 10 of those to record in January 2023. “I think there was always a plan in the back of everybody's minds about doing a second one. We just got the conversation started and then started checking out some tunes. There were a lot of songs that were a little less fleshed out than with the first album, but once we got the ball rolling, it kind of went really fast”, says Nick D’Virgilio.


For the three members, this group serves as something different for all of them. Morse explains, “I've never been part of a group that was like this one. Most people know I'm a big CSN fan and I love Yes’s three-part harmonies and The Beatles as well. My dad was a choir director, so harmonies are in my blood! DMJ is a special group that is its own unique cup of tea and has such a nice flavor. Great blend. The main thing for me is to be working on good songs; it doesn't matter to me who writes them or necessarily that much about styles. If the songs are good, then I'm all about it.”


Jennings agrees, “I'm a huge fan of country and folk music, I love the three-part harmony style. As a vocalist known for progressive metal releases, prior to forming the band I could never have predicted that I'd be considered to be part of a group making music like this. It's still mind-blowing to me since I'd never officially recorded and released any music of this genre to prove that I can do it. Making these records with Nick and Neal has been such a pleasant and rewarding experience. It's funny how things work out sometimes!”


(Photo - Chad Hoerner)

Former FOREIGNER singer Lou Gramm has once again said that greed was the reason he wasn't listed as one of the songwriters for the band's smash hit song "I Want To Know What Love Is". The power ballad, which is credited solely to FOREIGNER's founding guitarist Mick Jones, was released in November 1984 as the lead single from the group's fifth album, "Agent Provocateur".

Gramm discussed his supposed lack of contribution to the track during a brand new interview with Justin Young of Monsters, Madness And Magic. Speaking about his involvement with the songwriting process on "Agent Provocateur", he said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): " For me, the sticking points were when we started writing songs. Nine out of 10 ideas that Mick showed me, he was playing keyboard and they were midtempo, somewhat rock songs — not heavy or anything. They were nice, they were good songs and the music was nice, but it wasn't dynamic in any stretch of the imagination the way FOREIGNER '4' was. And then, then there was 'I Want To Know What Love Is'. He played me the idea for that song and I liked it. And I was not a ballad guy, but that song was very special. And we worked on that song. He had a house about 20 minutes from my house, so I was over his house at least five out of seven nights a week having dinner and working till one or two in the morning with him on that song specifically. And we would just hit creative dead ends and walk away from it frustrated. But we kept plugging away, and we ended up getting the body of the song correct, and the chorus, lyrics and melody the way we wanted it, and we were set to go in and record it. Mick had a friend, a young black guy, who he knew from years ago, and he heard the song and told Mick that he had been working for a gospel label the past few years. And he says, 'I know what the song needs.' He says, 'It needs a gospel choir in the choruses.' And Mick kind of was taken aback and he thought about it and he goes, 'You could be right.' And his friend says, 'I have just the choir for you. It's New Jersey Mass Choir.' He says, 'They've had hits on their own in the gospel charts.' So on the day that they came down to sing the choruses, I was in one studio next door to where they were — just myself and an engineer. I was singing the lead vocal to the song, which hadn't been done yet. So Mick was consumed with the choir and making sure that that they sounded the way they should, and I was in the next studio over singing the lead vocal. Usually when I would sing the lead vocal, Mick wouldn't be more than three feet away from me offering suggestions, little criticisms and making sure it came out the way he wanted it. When I walked in there to sing that lead vocal, I didn't see him for four hours. And when I saw him, I handed him the tape and I said, 'I'm done'. And he looked at me, like, 'What do you mean you're done? I haven't even heard it yet.' He didn't say that, but then with the gospel choir there in front of the mics, he played my version with my lead vocals on it and my vocals on the chorus too. And the choir sang along with the choruses. And I got goosebumps and chills all over my body. And I looked over at Mick, and he was crying."

Elaborating on the disagreement over songwriting credits for "I Want To Know What Love Is", Gramm continued: "When we were recording that album, at the end of completion of every song, Mick and I would sit down at a table, and on a little piece of paper we would write out what we thought the split was for the song between the two of us as writers, and we'd done that from album one. So, like, 'Hot Blooded' was 50-50, 'Double Vision' was 60 for Mick, 40 for me. And other songs had different, different splits. And I wrote 60 for Mick, 40 for me, and I slid that piece of paper over to him, and he slid one over to me. So I saw him look at my piece of paper, and he didn't smile or anything; he had stone face on. And I picked up my piece of paper. You know what he had on it? 95-5 for him. We had worked on that song since it was just a little tiny idea for weeks and weeks and weeks until it became a song. I was involved in the melody, in the arrangement of the song, and plus I sang the ad-libs and I sang the hell out of the song. And his best offer was 95-5. I was insulted, I was angry and I knew right away why it was. Because he knew that song was gonna be Number One and he wanted it all for himself. But he would sacrifice five percent. I tore the piece of paper up and I says, 'Mick, I know why you're doing this.' I says, 'You want the song for yourself, so it just says 'Jones' under writers.' I says, 'You do that.' I said, 'I don't want any part of it.' So he did. The song went to Number One. The song itself sold millions — millions and millions of songs. I think it went two and a half times platinum just for the single. It was immediately re-recorded by Wynonna Judd. She re-recorded it and had a worldwide hit with it. So it was a Number One hit for three other artists. He made millions and millions of dollars off just that song. I didn't see a nickel."

Gramm was the voice on FOREIGNER's biggest hits, including "Feels Like The First Time" and "Cold As Ice" from the band's eponymous debut in 1977, and later songs like "Hot Blooded" and "I Want to Know What Love Is".

The 73-year-old Gramm left FOREIGNER for good in 2002 and has battled health issues in recent years, including the removal of a non-cancerous tumor. He told the Democrat & Chronicle in 2018 that he was planning to retire, but still reunited with FOREIGNER for several shows that year to celebrate the band's 40th anniversary.

FOREIGNER replaced Gramm with Kelly Hansen in 2005. Jones, the only remaining original member of FOREIGNER, suffered from some health issues beginning in 2011, eventually resulting in heart surgery in 2012.

Gramm and Jones's June 2013 performance of "I Want To Know What Love Is" and "Juke Box Hero" at the Songwriters Hall Of Fame in New York City marked the first time the pair performed together in a decade after Gramm left FOREIGNER for a second time. Hansen has fronted the group for the past 18 years.

With top-notch music videos for tracks like “Norwegian Reggaeton” and successful hits such as “Valhalleluja” under their belts, Italian comedy metal masters, Nanowar Of Steel, celebrated their 20th anniversary recently. Providing the world with laughter for two decades, the band proved their status as the genre’s most unconventional band with their latest album, Dislike To False Metal (released in March 2023), once again.


After performing disturbingly addictive songs like “Disco Metal” and “Pasadena 1994” (the latter boasting over 2M YouTube video views) during their celebrated headlining European tour with Frozen Crown and on big festival appearances, Nanowar Of Steel will do it again on their very first North American tour with headliner DragonForce - happening now!


Known for their satirical takes, Nanowar Of Steel unveils a poppy official video and delightful musical satire for "Protocols Of Love", cut from Dislike To False Metal. Managing to strike a unique balance between humor and catchy 90s influenced melodies, the song showcases the band's creativity and musical prowess.




Nanowar Of Steel on “Protocols Of Love”: "To celebrate our firstest tour in the land of Alex Jones and HAARP, we conspired to write a song about conspiracy theories but it looks like someone conspired to a higher level to make it so that our new video gets released in an untimely moment. Is it just a coincidence? We think not!"





Order Dislike To False Metal here.





Tracklisting:


"Sober
"Winterstorm In The Night" feat. Madeleine Liljestam (Eleine)
"Disco Metal"
"Muscle Memories"
"Chupacabra Cadabra"
"Pasadena 1994" feat. Joakim Broden (Sabaton)
"Metal Boomer Battalion"
"Dimmu Boogie"
"Protocols Of Love"


“Metal Boomer Battalion” lyric video:





“Sober” lyric video:





“Pasadena 1994” video:





“Disco Metal” video:





"Winterstorm In The Night" video:





Nanowar Of Steel are:


Gatto Panceri 666 - Bass
Potowotominimak - Vocals
Mr. Baffo - Vocals
Mohammed Abdul - Guitar
Uinona Raider - Drums

With great anticipation and with Halloween nearing, Kami Van Halst has two musical treats for fans with new singles "My Alice" featuring the masterful Phil X from Bon Jovi on guitar and "Jack and Sally's Song" featuring Paul Woida.


The haunting new piece, "My Alice" is a sinister homage to the enigmatic Alice Cooper. In this electrifying tribute, Kami Van Halst delves into the dark, theatrical, and rebellious essence that defines Alice Cooper's legacy. The song encapsulates the spirit of rock 'n' roll, unleashing its wild and untamed energy for music lovers worldwide. "My Alice" is a powerful, head-banging masterpiece that bridges generations of rock enthusiasts.


"This has been a labour of devotion, nurtured in shadows for what feels like an eternity. What could be more fitting for this monstrous revelation than Halloween time? For too long, our band has harbored this dark symphony, yearning for the perfect moment. The torment of waiting has made it all the sweeter. I must extend my deepest gratitude to our producer, Arnold Lanni, who delved fearlessly into this odyssey, pushing the boundaries of my artistry. To my band, my brethren, who poured their souls into the writing and playing, enduring the agonizing wait for this release. Step right up, for the show is about to begin, and the mysteries of the night await you under the big top." adds Kami.




Listen now to "My Alice" as Kami Van Halst channels her inner Alice Cooper and rocks the stage!





As an added bonus for Halloween lovers and fans of the beloved movie "The Nightmare Before Christmas," Kami Van Halst and her husband, Paul Woida, bring to life the enchanting love story of Jack and Sally with their rendition of "Jack and Sally's Song". This hauntingly beautiful tribute to the iconic film captures the magic and melancholy of Halloween Town while blending Kami's vocal prowess with Paul's musical talents. The song is a heartfelt homage to the creativity and imagination of Tim Burton's masterpiece and a perfect addition to any Halloween playlist. Experience the magic of Jack and Sally's love story in a whole new way.





In additional news, Kami Van Halst is working on her metamorphosis into the enigmatic Jezebel Slade, a fierce and untamed force of nature. With an enthralling stage presence and a captivating aura, Jezebel Slade commands the spotlight like a true rock goddess.


With her upcoming album, set to unleash its raw power in 2024, her new persona Jezebel Slade will take the reins and plunge audiences into a whirlwind of gothic whimsy. Co-written and produced by the legendary diamond award-winning producer, Arnold Lanni, the yet-to-be-titled full-length is the epitome of goth-rock brilliance.


Jezebel Slade's performance is not just a show; it's a full-blown experience that will leave you spellbound and craving for more. As she weaves her dark tales and unleashes her fiery melodies, you'll find yourself entranced by her daring spirit and fearless artistry.


The legacy of Kami Van Halst and Jezebel Slade is about to shake the very foundations of rock and roll royalty. Their fusion of creativity, passion, and unapologetic attitude sets them apart as true trailblazers of the genre.


So get ready to embrace the chaos, surrender to the power, and witness the rise of the Heavy Metal Lady Gaga and her audacious stage alter ego, Jezebel Slade. The jezebelion has just begun, and there's no turning back.

Trick Or Treat will release the live album, A Creepy Night Live, on December 8 via Scarlet Records.


Trick Or Treat celebrate more than twenty years of an established and successful heavy metal career with their first official live record.


Recorded during the tour in support of the latest studio-album Creepy Symphonies, A Creepy Night Live retraces the stages of the Italian band's history: from the very first Helloweenish steps up to the current, brilliant and personal interpretation of the "happy metal" plot, passing through the most memorable and fun songs scattered throughout all their works.




But there's more... As a special gift to their fans, Trick Or Treat have composed a magnificent Christmas single: "When The Lights Fade Out (Santa's In Trouble)' – featuring Sabaton & Majestica's Tommy Johansson – is the perfect tune to spend a nice and entertaining power metal Xmas!


Featuring the special guests Michele Luppi (Whitesnake) and Chiara Tricarico (Moonlight Haze); mixed and mastered by Simone Mularoni at Domination Studio; creepily illustrated by the Trick Or Treat & Twilight Force frontman Alle Conti; A Creepy Night Live will be released in the following formats:


- digipack CD
- digital


Pre-order the CD here.





A Creepy Night Live tracklisting:


Intro/"Creepy Symphony"
"Have A Nice Judgment Day"
"Loser Song"
"Aquarius: Diamond Dust"
"The Great Escape"
"Tears Against Your Smile" (feat. Chiara Tricarico)
"Cloudrider"
"Hungarian Hangover"
"Libra: One Hundred Dragons Force"
"Take Your Chance" (feat. Michele Luppi)
"Rabbits’ Hill"
"Crazy"
"Like Donald Duck"
"When The Lights Fade Out (Santa's In Trouble)" (feat. Tommy Johansson)


Trick Or Treat - A Creepy Night Live lineup:


Alle Conti - vocals
Guido Benedetti - guitar
Luca Venturelli - guitar
Leone Villani Conti - bass
Luca Setti - drums


(Photo - Annalisa Russo)

On November 3, a unique and special offering from the Allman Brothers Band, in tandem with the Owsley Stanley Foundation, will be released as an exclusive -LP limited run of electric “orange sunshine” vinyl. Bear’s Sonic Journals: Allman Brothers Band Fillmore East February 1970 presents restored and mastered recordings of the Allman Brothers Band’s performances at New York City’s Fillmore East on February 11, 13 & 14, 1970, captured by legendary Grateful Dead soundman Owsley “Bear” Stanley, who is known for the purity of his “Sonic Journal” recordings and their uncanny ability to place the listener in the venue.


The Allman Brothers Band in 1970 was on the brink of superstardom. They had only been together for 11 months when promoter Bill Graham, who had booked them in San Francisco and New York, invited them back to the Fillmore East on a triple bill with Grateful Dead and Love. And fortunately for us, the Dead’s soundman Owsley “Bear” Stanley had his tapes rolling.


Transferred and mastered from the original tapes in Owsley Stanley’s archives, this is essential listening for Allman Brothers Band fans, showcasing the original line up of the legendary group with Duane Allman in top form. The seven-song set features blues covers that the band would long employ in their sets (“Hoochie Coochie Man,” “Statesboro Blues”), the morphable spin-off of Donovan’s “Mountain Jam,” the ominous Gregg Allman composition “Whipping Post,” plus the earliest known live recordings of their show opener, Dickey Betts’ monstrous instrumental “In Memory Of Elizabeth Reed,” which had just been penned shortly before these shows.




“I had no prior experience with mixing their music, so I hope you don’t mind the rough edges in my mixes here,” wrote Bear in the original liner notes for this collection. “There was a wonderful feeling at these concerts that made the shows a lot of fun for us all...I had a good time working at these shows, and I hope you will have a good time listening to this historic early Allman Brothers Band.”


Although the Allman Brothers Band in early 1970 had but one studio album under their belt, word of mouth about their incendiary and improvisational marathon live shows had begun to spread. In his liner notes, John Lynskey, ABB authority and Chief Archivist of the Big House Museum, aptly describes the Allman Brothers Band’s music as a “wicked blend of rock, jazz and R&B that created a dynamic, groundbreaking sound.”


Presented by the Owsley Stanley Foundation and the band - Duane Allman, Gregg Allman, Dickey Betts, Berry Oakley, Jaimoe Aka J. Johanny Johnson And Butch Trucks - Bear’s Sonic Journals captures the nascent group on the rise; they would return to the Fillmore just a year later to record At Fillmore East, which continues to be included in conversations about the best live rock albums ever.





Bear’s Sonic Journals: Allman Brothers Band Fillmore East February 1970 tracklisting:


Side 1:
"In Memory Of Elizabeth Reed"
"Hoochie Coochie Man"
"Statesboro Blues"


Side 2:
"Trouble No More"
"Outskirts Of Town"
"Whipping Post"


Side 3:
"Mountain Jam"


Side 4:
"Mountain Jam" (continued)

TWISTED SISTER frontman Dee Snider has once again explained why he chooses to stand up to those who use his band's most famous song, "We're Not Gonna Take It", to promote conspiracy theories. Speaking to TMZ at the Los Angeles International Airport, earlier this week, Dee said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Here's the deal: I wrote a song 40 years ago that I had no idea was gonna become this folk song for the ages. But it was by design that I wrote it so anybody could put their situation into it. So I've never stopped people from using it because that's censorship, and I fought against censorship in the '80s. It's designed for people to use it as their battle cry. And I've got 'em on the left using it, I've got the right using it, I've got sporting events using it, I've got kids using it. So that's beautiful. But when somebody stands for something I don't stand for and it reflects that on me, like, say, QAnon, I will speak out and say — I don't try and stop them using it, I just say I denounce the use of the song… And people like having the blessing of the songwriter. So, [if] you're using my song, stand for something, stand for something good, stand for something right. Don't stand for lies and B.S. because we've got too much of that going on right now."

Asked if he is okay with members of the U.S. military using "We're Not Gonna Take It", Dee said: "[There is] no one I like better using 'We're Not Gonna Take It' than the military. And teachers. I'm blessed that I get to live my dream because we have people who volunteer to protect our country, protect their countries, and when I hear that they've used my song, the song they've allowed me to write, because they defended our freedom, I say, louder and prouder. Sing it out, boys."

Pressed about whether he is "good with IDF" using it — referencing the Israel Defense Forces, who are poised to launch a ground invasion with the stated objective of destroying the Palestinian militant group Hamas for a deadly October 7 attack on Israel that claimed the lives of 1,400 people — Dee said: "You know what? Israelis, the assault on the Israelis, people are losing sight of something. People saying that, 'Oh, the response is gonna be too intense for what happened.' Well, you don't get to decide on the response when you do heinous things to civilians. You don't get to say, 'Oh, that's enough, that's enough retaliation.' No, it doesn't work like that. When you cross that line, you're burning people, you're slaughtering people, you're raping people, you're just killing people after what happened at that festival, you don't get to say, 'Okay, your revenge can be this much.' No. Payback's a mothereffer. And I come from that school. You cross that line, you know... Shit's gonna happen."

Asked to clarify that he is okay with "We're Not Gonna Take It" being played as the battle cry of the IDF, Snider responded: "Oh, hell yeah."

According to The New York Times, QAnon is the umbrella term for a set of Internet conspiracy theories that allege, falsely, that the world is run by a cabal of Satan-worshiping pedophiles. There are also many offshoots, detours and internal debates, and the total list of QAnon claims is often contradictory.

Dee previously blasted conspiracy theorists for using "We're Not Gonna Take It" this past April in an interview with Billboard. At the time he said: "QAnon uses it all the time as their battle cry. And people are like, 'Dee, you support QAnon?' No, I do not, so I need to speak out."

Back in August 2020, at the height of the coronavirus pandemic, Snider was asked by Finland's Kaaos TV for his opinion on why so many Americans had balked at the most basic safety measures meant to tame the COVID-19 pandemic, including refusing to wear masks and continuing to gather in large groups. Many had also embraced fringe conspiracy theories claiming that the coronavirus death toll had been exaggerated and that the COVID-19 pandemic was part of a strategy conceived by global elites — such as Bill Gates — to roll out vaccinations with tracking chips that would later be activated by 5G, the technology used by cellular networks.

Dee said: "I've got a couple of really good answers here, I think. My wife made this amazing observation, 'cause we travel so much. And she said, 'You know, the United States is still a young country compared to the other countries in the world.' We're like teenagers. And teenagers are very rebellious: 'You can't tell me what to do.' And that's the American attitude. Countries like [Finland] — European countries — have been established for hundreds and hundreds [of years]. We're two hundred years [old]. You guys are a thousand years since the first man was there, and the culture. So you're a more mature people, and it reflects in European cultures — you see it. Not so much in England, but you see it in Scandinavia, for sure.

"The other thing is that there's this lack of awareness of the rest of the world for most people in America," he continued. "I was on social media saying it would benefit everybody to leave their country, travel and see people and understand other cultures. The world would not seem so strange.

"I talk to young people, and they say, 'Oh, yeah. This is a political thing. When the election is over, it'll be gone.' And this was my niece," he added. "I said, 'But we were down in South America. They have [the pandemic there]. And we were in Europe. They have it. And our African safari was canceled because in Africa they have it.' And she said, 'Oh, they do?' She didn't know that the rest of the world has it. She thought this was in America only.

"America is very selfish — very self-absorbed. And the young people especially don't watch the news. In Europe, you're very connected. The borders are right there.

"People need to experience the world more and understand that they're not the only ones on this planet."

Mike Portnoy has shared the video below, featuring a performance of The Winery Dogs' "Elevate", filmed during the band's concert at Progresja in Warsaw, Poland on October 21.





The Winery Dogs perform next on Tuesday, October 24 at Sono Centrum in Brno, Czech Republic. Find the band's tour itinerary, as well as ticket and VIP package info, here.







The Winery Dogs - comprised of vocalist / guitarist Richie Kotzen, bassist Billy Sheehan, and drummer Mike Portnoy - released their aptly named third album, III, back in February via the band’s Three Dog Music label (via Burnside Distribution/The Orchard).


The Winery Dogs' III album can be ordered here.





III tracklisting:


"Xanadu"
"Mad World"
"Breakthrough"
"Rise"
"Stars"
"The Vengeance"
"Pharaoh"
"Gaslight"
"Lorelei"
"The Red Wine"


"Stars" video:





"Breakthrough" video:





"Xanadu" video:





"Mad World" video:

Triptykon, founded by Tom G. Warrior (Celtic Frost, Hellhammer), performed on the Ronnie James Dio Stage at Bloodstock Open Air 2023. Organizers have shared pro-shot video of the band performing Celtic Frost's "Dawn Of Megiddo". Watch below:





Watch the band perform "Circle Of The Tyrants" at the same show:







The impact of Swiss extreme metal forefathers, Hellhammer, is one that still resonates around the global metal scene today, such was their influence on the early extreme, death, and black metal genres.


In the 40 years that have passed since their humble beginnings in Nurensdorf, Switzerland, in May 1982, they have gained a mythically iconic status despite existing for a mere two years. However the band left a highly influential body of work behind, including the three demos Death Fiend, Satanic Rites and Triumph Of Death (all re-released in 2008 as the Demon Entrails demo retrospective), the seminal Apocalyptic Raids EP, and two tracks from the legendary Death Metal compilation. In light of this legacy, it is almost inconceivable that Hellhammer never performed this music on stage.


Celtic Frost, the successor group formed by Hellhammer founding member Tom Gabriel Warrior and former Hellhammer bassist Martin Eric Ain, would sporadically play a Hellhammer song or two, and Warrior’s current band, Triptykon, have played the occasional Hellhammer song live, but the vast body of Hellhammer's work remained unperformed, until the inception of Triumph Of Death.


In 2019 Tom Gabriel Warrior stated: "Hellhammer will never return and will never be reformed. It is absolutely impossible to reform a band so closely linked to a very specific and unique period in time. But Hellhammer's music exists, and it is an extremely important part of my life's path. And I would like to play it onstage before my demise."


The resurrection of the music of Hellhammer had been an idea Tom Gabriel Warrior and Martin Eric Ain discussed for many years, sparked not least by their renewed collaboration in the reformed Celtic Frost in the 2000s. The first steps towards the realization of Triumph Of Death, named after Hellhammer's most infamous song and intended to be a very respectful and authentic tribute to Hellhammer, were finally taken in 2014, and the band was officially founded in autumn of 2018.


Triumph Of Death consists of individuals who not only love the music in question but truly understand it. The lineup emulates Hellhammer's final incarnation of April/May 1984, when the group had added an additional guitarist. To date Triumph Of Death have performed numerous notable concerts globally and have brought the seminal music of Hellhammer to fans both old and new. Many of whom thought they may never see it live on stage.


Triumph Of Death’s debut live release, Resurrection Of The Flesh, is the culmination of three concerts. Recorded in the spring of 2023 at Hell’s Heroes Festival in Houston, Texas, Dark Easter Metal Meeting in Munich, Germany and SWR Barroselas Metal Fest in Portugal, the album was produced by Tom Gabriel Warrior and Triptykon's V. Santura. The record captures the band at their primeval finest; raw, foreboding and heavy. The songs may date back four decades but here they are revealed to be still just as vital today as when they were written in the band’s infamous rehearsal bunker in the rural village of Birchwil, Switzerland in the early 1980s. From the thunderous opening chords of "Third Of The Storms (Evoked Damnation)" to the malevolent, morbid feedback of set closer "Triumph Of Death", this album is a sixty minute document of the overwhelming power of the live performance of Triumph Of Death, and it captures the spirit and intensity of these historic songs that have transcended decades to become revered and timeless.


Warrior: "This album is, most importantly, testament to the unique connection that exists between the audience and this band. Hellhammer's music was an underground token in 1982 to 1984, often ridiculed and shunned, and we owe the fact that we are now able to perform it all across the globe entirely to grace, openness, and enthusiasm of those who make exactly these concerts possible. They give us as much as we given them, and my gratitude to them knows no limits."


For special ore-orders and exclusive merch bundles for the early-November release, head here.


Resurrection Of The Flesh will be available as:


- Deluxe CD mediabook
- Double gatefold LP w/booklet and posters on black vinyl and B&W swirl (indie store exclusive)
- Super deluxe double red vinyl LP bookpack with bonus 7” single plus posters





Tracklisting:


"The Third Of The Storms (Evoked Damnation)"
"Massacra"
"Maniac"
"Blood Insanity"
"Decapitator"
"Crucifixion"
"Reaper"
"Horus/Aggressor"
"Revelations Of Doom"
"Messiah"
"Visions Of Mortality"
"Triumph Of Death"


Bonus 7” song (Super deluxe edition only):
"Decapitator" (Live In Houston)


"Messiah":





Triumph Of Death lineup:


Tom Gabriel Warrior - voice/guitar
André Mathieu - guitar/vocals
Jamie Lee Cussigh - bass
Tim Iso Wey – drums

King Crimson founder Robert Fripp and his wife, Toyah Willcox, continue their countdown to Halloween with the new video below, stating: "Time for another tribute to Halloween!"





Last week the couple served up their take on Black Sabbath's "Children Of The Grave" in their countdown to Halloween. Check it out below.







Toyah recently revealed in a brand new interview with eonmusic that a movie of the Sunday Lunch series is in the planning. The phenomenon, which sees Toyah and partner Robert Fripp cover songs from across the rock spectrum, started life during the lockdown, and has grown into a "phenomenon", according to the singer.


Toyah made the revelation while speaking to sonmusic's Eamon O'Neill ahead of her performance at Rewind South in Henley-on-Thames in August.  


Speaking about how Sunday Lunch has taken off; Toyah said; "Well, the Sunday lunch phenomenon, which is a worldwide phenomenon, it's basically, we picked up on classic rock, and our treatment of rock is; if you can teach Mozart and Beethoven in schools, then why can't you teach classic rock? Because that's what it is now; rock from Led Zeppelin, rock from Black Sabbath; it's classic, it's never going to go away. And it's something that I think, kids would really love learning about. That's not that we're going on the road and being educational, but our show kind of goes on a journey with artists we know, artists who visit us in our homes."


Going on to reveal that a movie about Sunday Lunch is on the way, Toyah said; "We have a documentary crew following us, and we have quite a big production company scripting an idea at the moment. Obviously we won't be in it. It's for actors to play, but that's all in the back kind of pool of what do you call pre-production. All of that's going on."


Asked when the movie might see the light of day, she was however, less committal; "I mean, movies take years, you know, for the even scripts to be accepted, so who knows what will happen?"


Read the interview here.


Toyah & Robert's Sunday Lunch is now on tour throughout the UK. The couple is accompanied by a live band, with Fripp on guitar.


Tickets are available here.





Says Toyah: “When people ask, 'What is the show going to be?', it’s going to be about the hundred years of musical experience we have between us.”


Watch the "Toyah At Home" video below, where Toyah and Robert introduce the tour concept:

Exit Eden, the symphonic metal all-star band featuring charismatic singers Amanda Somerville, Clémentine Delauney, Marina La Torraca and Anna Brunner, released their debut album, Rhapsodies In Black, in 2018. 


Somerville has checked in with the following update:


"Fellow Exiles, it’s once again been too long since we put out an update. There are some wonderful new things from Exit Eden to bring to your eyes and ears that will be revealed shortly. That being said, I will not be taking part in that. As you know, since my fabulous little twins were born, I’ve really had to take a hard look at prioritizing my time and energy. Please believe me when I say that it was not an easy decision to leave.




It was a fantastic ride and I’m grateful for the time we had and the music we made together. I wish Marina La Torraca, Clémentine Delauney and Anna Brunner an incredible continued journey and all the best for what’s to come! My spirit will always be with them. I was about to say I’ll stay an Exile, but … let’s call it an Expat in this case.


We all remain Exiles of Eden!" 





The group has issued the following statement:


"Hello everyone! 


Thank you for your understanding and respect to the announcement that Amanda would not continue the adventure with us. We shared so much, learnt so much and had so much fun during this whole wonderful chapter together and of course, this decision was hard for everyone. We wish we could have gone on without changing anything to our girl gang! 


Amanda shared her thoughts yesterday and today we want to thank her so much for everything that she brought to Exit Eden. Whatever we did together will last forever, starting with this first album, Rhapsodies In Black, that we all cherish immensely.


Now, we’ve seen some comments from you guys and girls throwing names for who should replace her in our band. We want to make this crystal clear that there never was any desire to replace Amanda. She’s not disposable and we are still strong as a trio. This was the only possible way for us to keep going.


Very soon now, will you all be able to appreciate the new Exit Eden and we can’t wait for it 


Thank you all for your presence and patience after all these years."


Clementine, Anna & Marina


Exit Eden’s debut album, Rhapsodies In Black, is out via Napalm Records. The album is home to a colourful mix of international super hits from Rihanna to Madonna, from Depeche Mode to Adele, and many more. Still and all, it's miles away from being just a cover album.





Rhapsodies In Black tracklisting:


“A Question Of Time”
“Unfaithful”
“Incomplete”
“Impossible”
“Frozen”
“Heaven”
“Firework”
“Skyfall”
“Total Eclipse Of The Heart”
“Paparazzi”
“Fade To Grey”


“A Question Of Time” video:





“Total Eclipse Of The Heart” video:





"Total Eclipse Of The Heart" live:





“Paparazzi” video:





"Incomplete" live:





“Impossible” live:





“Unfaithful” live:

Coming this November from Opus Publishing and the mind of Dani Filth - Cradle Of Filth: Funeral In Carpathia issue #1.


"Carpathia, the pleasured dead speak of her, in necromantic tongue when ambered daylights are done…" The latest tale from Cradle Of Filth's majestic oeuvre comes to life in images of death and seduction! Written by Hector Lima (Megadeth) and drawn by legendary Argentinian artist Enrique Alcatena (Conan, Heavy Metal), Cradle Of Filth: Funeral In Carpathia is "supreme vampiric evil" to be relished by all gothic horror fans, filth and non-filth alike!







"Funeral In Carpathia" was the third track on Cradle Of Filth's second studio album, Dusk And Her Embrace, originally released in 1996 via Music For Nations. When Dusk And Her Embrace: The Original Sin was released in 2016 via Cacophonous, "Funeral In Carpathia" appeared as the seventh track. Both versions can be heard below.








In live news, Cradle Of Filth is currently in the midst of a co-headlining tour with DevilDriver. Remaining dates are as listed:


October
22 - Baltimore, MD - Rams Head
24 - Cincinnati, OH - Bogarts
25 - Sauget, IL - Pop's
26 - Wichita, KS - Temple Live
27 - Lubbock, TX - The Garden
29 - Riverside, CA - Riverside Municipal Auditorium





 

During an appearance on SiriusXM's "Trunk Nation Power Trip Special", METALLICA drummer Lars Ulrich spoke about the band's ongoing "M72" world tour, which features two-night stops in nearly two dozen cities. Presented worldwide by Liquid Death and Blackened American Whiskey (in North America only) and promoted by Live Nation, the 46-show trek launched in Amsterdam on April 27 and will include shows all over Europe and North America through 2024. Each "No Repeat Weekend" on "M72" features two completely different setlists and support lineups.

Regarding the idea of playing two different sets in every city, Lars said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "It's really, really fun, and it seems like it's connecting with the fans out there. Honestly, and I think I've circled this a couple of times, it took a little while for the whole thing to settle, 'cause you're kind of, 'Okay, what are we doing?' And these ideas, like I've also said before, some of these ideas, they seem good in theory on an e-mail chain or whenever you're sitting talking about, 'Yeah, next year, let's do this, let's do that.' And then it's, like, 'Holy shit. We're actually doing it.' And then you've gotta get that together and then you've gotta get used to the new stage and then you've gotta get used to a whole new slew of things. But it really felt like by the time we got to America in early August out at MetLife [stadium in New Jersey], it really felt like we were kind of finding the groove of it. And it's been a lot of fun. So we're doing the whole thing again next year and we're looking to see what's on the other side of that. But it's a fun format. It's a fun stage."

He continued: "As you know, we've played in the round for many years, but we've never played in the round in like the football stadiums, and that's fun as fuck. The main thing, when you're playing in the round, is just you feel like you're closer to a bigger part of the fans. And so when you're in the middle, it just feels that — I know the word 'intimate' is maybe not the first word that comes to mind when you're playing at MetLife or SoFi or these places, but it feels like it's as intimate as it can get in those types of situations. And when you have as many of the fans as close as they are, it really feels like you're just connecting with more people and more fans and to play, it's more fun. It's definitely something that we're loving. And next year should be great. We're doing another run of shows in America. And so we're looking forward to doing the whole thing over again next year."

Ulrich also talked about how the material from METALLICA's latest album, "72 Seasons", has been going over live on the "M72" tour. He said: "Yeah, I think we're about eight of the songs in. It's settled well, These songs are fun as fuck also to play. They're certainly right in the current mindset, current wheelhouse. And they feel like they're connecting. You never know. There's two steps: one is they're connecting with you as a band, and then they also have, after you kind of feel like you've figured them out or you own them or whatever, then they also have to connect with the audience, with the fans. And it feels like [the title track] '72 Seasons', 'Lux [Æterna]'… We just started playing the song 'Shadows Follow'. 'Too Far Gone?' was a later addition. And it's really fun. And to get the feedback from the fans is cool. It feels like they're slotting right in, and it's not blah, blah, blah, 'Oh, no. Here's a new song,' and then there's a mass exodus for the merchandise stand or whatever."

The "M72" tour features a bold new in-the-round stage design that relocates the famed METALLICA Snake Pit to center stage, as well as the "I Disappear" full-tour pass and the debut of discounted tickets for fans under 16 years of age.

METALLICA is visiting a total of 22 different cities around the world and playing two nights in each city.

Opening acts include FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, ICE NINE KILLS, MAMMOTH WVH, PANTERA, ARCHITECTS, GRETA VAN FLEET and VOLBEAT.

METALLICA promises fans who purchase a two-day ticket that they won't see the same song twice for a total of over 30 songs spanning the band's 40-plus-year career.

Each weekend offers a variety of "Enhanced Experiences", ranging from access to a meet-and-greet, production and stage tour, food and beverage in the "Black Box" lounge to early entry into the venue and the Snake Pit. The very popular "Black Laminate" is back, now known as the "I Disappear Ticket", and is the ultimate pass for the fan who wants to run away with METALLICA for multiple weekends.

A single "I Disappear" ticket purchase gives you access to as many of METALLICA's 46 headlining tour dates across Europe and North America in 2023 and 2024 as you choose. You decide how many shows you'd like to attend around the world, and for how long, and METALLICA will make it as easy as possible.

This past April, Ulrich told Japanese music critic and radio personality Masa Ito of TVK's "Rock City" about the "M72" tour: "[It's] definitely exciting, definitely a little crazy. But it's fun spirited, of course, and a little overwhelming, to be honest with you.

"The concept was born out of a gentleman named Danny Wimmer who runs a series of festivals in America," he explained. "And I guess about four years ago now, he came to us and asked us if we would play six or eight of his festivals, and we would bookend the festival. We would play Friday and Sunday, and somebody else would play Saturday. And we would play Friday and Sunday — completely different sets — and bookend the festival. That sounded interesting, unique and crazy cool, so we said yes. And we had six, seven, maybe eight of those scheduled for 2020. Then the pandemic and lockdown came, and obviously that all went away. By the time we circled into the fall of '21, we went out and did three of those. And it was fun. We survived it. And it felt like it connected with an audience. And for us, it was an opportunity to do kind of a blank canvas experiment of just starting completely over, which is always fun and appreciated in the METALLICA camp. So when we were trying to figure out for the next record, we thought this concept of going around the world and playing two nights in every city and doing this would be fun.

"I'm not sure these days, to be honest with you, if everybody really understands what it is we're doing," Lars admitted. "I'm not sure we understand what it is we're doing…It started off as one ticket for two shows, and then we let some single-day tickets be available for people that couldn't make both shows. Obviously, both shows, two shows is a big commitment for a lot of people; I understand that. So I don't know the idea that if people go to a show on one day, if they understand that there may not be certain toe-tapping favorites, as they may be called, that they will not hear. I don't know if they fully understand that concept, and I don't know if it matters. At the end of the day, it's a fun experiment, and when you've been playing for as long as we have and playing as many shows as we have, I think it's important to keep coming up with new ideas, to keep it fresh for the fans and fresh for yourselves. So hopefully this will connect. It's certainly exciting."

In a new interview with Metal Hammer, original SLAYER drummer Dave Lombardo was asked which of the bands in the "Big Four" of 1980s thrash metal — METALLICA, MEGADETH, SLAYER and ANTHRAX — was best. He responded without hesitation: "SLAYER. Ha ha ha! Who else could I pick?! We were brutal man, we were on top of our game, and if you watch the videos we were on fire. We really showed everyone else how it should be done — we tore everyone a new one."

In a 2011 interview with Geeks Of Doom, Lombardo denied that there was ever any competition between the "Big Four" acts. "I can't really speak for anybody else but there was never any rivalry from myself with the bands," he said. "I never had issues with any of them. I'm sure maybe with other guitar, er, musicians within the bands, maybe, of course there would have been. Twenty years, god, you can imagine the egos and the arrogance and attitude most musicians carry around with them when they haven't grown up.

When the interviewer pointed out that he very nearly said the problem between "guitarists", Dave said: "I nearly said that, yeah. [Laughs] Because, I don't know, I feel like drummers, we get along a lot better than guitar players do with each other. I've done the Modern Drummer drum festival, I've done all these various drumming clinics and things and there's one thing that we all have in common, which all us drummers have, is we like to share what we do. There's no secret. I think guitar players tend to be a little more secretive and a little more passionate. Well, maybe passionate isn't the right word, but they're a little more secretive about their tricks and whatever they do. And twenty years ago, man, I tell ya, it was the same thing."

That same year, Lombardo told Revolver about sharing the stage with the other "Big Four" bands for several gigs in 2010 and 2011, "There's camaraderie in this camp. In the metal world, there's camaraderie. I think it's really cool that it's come to that. Loving a style of music and doing a big festival like this really promotes the positive energy all these bands have to offer. Although some of us are a bit on the dark side — like, I'd say SLAYER, musically. But there is some good to the music."

In the same article, METALLICA drummer Lars Ulrich also denied that there was any rivalry between the four bands. "There was a time, sure, where there was a competitive edge to all of us, but I really don't feel that anymore," he said. "No matter how much anybody will push it in the press, or how many people don't buy it, I can tell you hand on heart that there's no competitive edge. It's not a bunch of 27-year-olds trying to see who's got the biggest dick. ANTHRAX, MEGADETH, SLAYER, METALLICA, we all kind of have our own little niche, our own little unique place. So it's not sorta like, Who's better at this? 'Cause at the end of the day we all do our own thing. And when it comes to drums, Dave Lombardo is, by far and away, God. There's no competitive edge, but if there was, Dave would win. Lombardo could kick the rest of our asses with just a whip of his little finger. So there was no competitive edge. That's the thing that I can truly say is the biggest difference now."

Lombardo, who has spent most of the recent years between crossover pioneers SUICIDAL TENDENCIES, horror-punk icons MISFITS, hardcore supergroup DEAD CROSS and MR. BUNGLE, was effectively fired from SLAYER after sitting out the group's Australian tour in February/March 2013 due to a contract dispute with the other bandmembers. He was later replaced by Paul Bostaph, who was previously SLAYER's drummer from 1992 until 2001.

SLAYER played its last-ever show in November 2019 at The Forum in Los Angeles.

In a new interview with Australia's "Everblack" podcast, FEAR FACTORY guitarist Dino Cazares was asked if the band's latest addition, Italian-born vocalist Milo Silvestro, is "getting more comfortable" with his position as the frontman of the long-running California metal act. Dino responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Oh, yeah. I mean, from the first day, we talked about a lot of stuff. Before the tour started, we rehearsed, and we were, like, 'Okay, these are the kind of things that we've done before. And I think you need to do this, this, this.' And he goes, 'Okay.' So then the first day [of the tour] comes, he just goes wild. And I'm, like, 'Oh, shit.' I was, like, 'Calm down.' I go, 'You don't need to go insane everywhere. Just focus on singing, focus on getting everything, giving the crowd all equal attention,' blah, blah. There's certain things you just gotta teach him a little bit, right? And so he pretty much nailed it the first day."

Dino also talked about the progress of the songwriting sessions for FEAR FACTORY's next studio album. He said:  "We've been working on new music. Yes, we have songs done. No, we're not releasing anything yet. You're gonna have to wait. We're still writing stuff, we're still writing a lot of stuff. The record's not complete, and we have to finish it soon, when we get time."

He continued: "The thing is what's been preventing us from finishing it is that we keep getting tour offers, and I'm not turning them down. I'm like, 'Let's go.' People wanna to see it. Like, by the time we hit Australia [in early March 2024], I'm not even sure if we'll have a song out by then. Maybe. I'm hoping. Maybe special for Australia. I don't know."

FEAR FACTORY's next album, which is tentatively due in late 2024, will be the band's first with Silvestro, whose addition to FEAR FACTORY was officially announced in late February.

Silvestro joined FEAR FACTORY as the replacement for the band's original singer Burton C. Bell.

FEAR FACTORY played its first headlining concert with Silvestro and touring drummer Pete Webber on May 5 at the Whisky A Go Go in West Hollywood, California.

FEAR FACTORY's recently completed "Rise Of The Machine" U.S. tour as the support act for STATIC-X marked the Cazares-led outfit's first run of shows with Silvestro and Webber.

Webber has been filling in for FEAR FACTORY's longtime drummer Mike Heller who is unable to play with the band due to "scheduling conflicts."

FEAR FACTORY played a one-off show on September 17 at the Metal Injection Festival where the band performed a very special "Demanufacture" and "Obsolete" set. FEAR FACTORY then launched a five-date headlining "DisrupTour" with special guests LIONS AT THE GATE. This was followed by the band heading out on the "October Dawn 2023" tour with headliners LACUNA COIL and openers LIONS AT THE GATE. The 10-date trek began on October 13 in Atlanta and will make stops in Louisville, Oklahoma City, and Houston before concluding in St. Petersburg on October 29.

FEAR FACTORY will embark on a European tour this fall. The 44-date trek will mark the band's first European shows since 2016. Joining them on this run are BUTCHER BABIES from the USA and IGNEA from Ukraine.

FEAR FACTORY and MACHINE HEAD will join forces for the "Slaughter The Martour North America 2024" tour in January and February. Additional support on the trek will come from Sweden's ORBIT CULTURE and Louisville, Kentucky's GATES TO HELL.

Photo credit: Stephanie Cabral

Tony Campos has once again explained STATIC-X's decision to enlist a vocalist who wears a mask in the likeness of late frontman Wayne Static during the band's recent tours.

While the identity of STATIC-X's touring singer has not been officially revealed, strong rumors suggest that DOPE's Edsel Dope is the anonymous, somewhat ominous new frontman of STATIC-X who is performing alongside bassist Campos, drummer Ken Jay and guitarist Koichi Fukuda.

In a new interview with Andy Hall of the Des Moines, Iowa radio station Lazer 103.3, Campos addressed STATIC-X's reliance on a "masked" vocalist instead of hiring a proper replacement for Wayne, saying: "It's been really cool, man, how people have embraced that idea of having the character up there being the representative of Wayne's vibe and spirit without us being, like, 'Hey, here's STATIC-X with their new singer.' That's not what we wanted to do. So, we were just, like, 'How do we represent Wayne in a cool way?' And I think this is a really cool way to do it."

He continued: "I keep coming back to the IRON MAIDEN analogy — not only was Wayne our Bruce Dickinson [IRON MAIDEN singer], but he was also our Eddie [IRON MAIDEN mascot]. He was the mascot for the band. So how do you represent that? And I think the Xer0 character does a good job at it."

When Hall noted that it must be "a pretty powerful experience" for him to be looking over and seeing Xer0 channeling the spirit of Wayne during STATIC-X's live shows, Tony said: "When we first started and I'm up there headbanging doing my thing, out of my peripheral vision, I see that figure with the hair and I'm playing the songs again, it's just like 20 years ago; it was just that vibe again. And having Koichi and, and Kenny up there, it was really cool, man. And especially those first couple of weeks, we'd be done with the show and we'd be back in the dressing room, and we'd all be, like, 'Fuck, Wayne should be here.' But we definitely feel this vibe and presence."

Static died after mixing Xanax and other powerful prescription drugs with alcohol, according to the coroner's report. The 48-year-old, whose real name was Wayne Richard Wells, was found dead in his Landers, California home on November 1, 2014.

Static founded STATIC-X in 1994 and achieved commercial success with "Wisconsin Death Trip", which included the rock radio hit "Push It".

The group issued five more studio albums before disbanding permanently in June 2013. Static had been pursuing a solo career at the time of his death.

Dope recently told Anne Erickson of Audio Ink Radio that the reason Xer0's identity has not been officially revealed is that he wants to make sure that STATIC-X is "properly represented, because I would never be interested in looking at a photo of STATIC-X or reading a liner note that mentions me as being the singer of STATIC-X. Edsel Dope has no interest in being the singer of STATIC-X," he clarified. "There's one living, breathing singer of STATIC-X, and that's Wayne Static. And then there's a character, an entity, for lack of better words, that was created in order to allow STATIC-X to have a future and to continue and be the legacy act that they are and tour and perform, and we gave that character a name that is respective to STATIC-X and fits the branding of what STATIC-X is, and that's what the importance is. It's the importance of recognizing the character as opposed to recognizing the person behind the character."

Back in October 2019, a photo was posted online clearly showing that Dope and Xer0 shared the same neck tattoo. However, Edsel later posted a lengthy statement on his band's Facebook page attempting to quash the rumors, implying Xer0's distinctive body ink was in fact a Photoshop job. Dope even provided a photograph of himself supposedly observing a STATIC-X performance sidestage to prove he and Xer0 were not the same person.

STATIC-X's latest LP "Project Regeneration Vol. 1", came out in July 2020. The first of two volumes, it featured 12 brand new tracks, containing many of the final vocal performances and musical compositions of Wayne Static, along with the original "Wisconsin Death Trip" lineup of Campos, Jay and Fukuda. A follow-up album, "Project Regeneration: Vol. 2", is scheduled for release on January 26, 2024. A collection of 14 brand-new songs, the upcoming LP was produced by Xer0 and mixed/mastered by longtime collaborator Ulrich Wild.

Photo credit: Jeremy Saffer

KISS members Paul Stanley, Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer were presented with a "Music Keynote To The City" at Cleveland, Ohio's Rock And Rock Hall Of Fame on Saturday (October 21). In addition, Cleveland city councilman Brian Kazy proclaimed today (Sunday, October 22) as "Kiss Day", coinciding with the band's last-ever concert in the city, which is happening tonight at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. (KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons did not attend. According to Cleveland.com, Stanley told the crowd Simmons needed rest.)

After being presented with the "Music Keynote To The City", KISS frontman Paul Stanley said: "We've always felt this was a home away from home. It's interesting to be here when everyone knows our storied past with the Rock Hall. The Hall Of Fame has found new footing and the artists who belong here are getting in. I'm very humbled after 50 years to be here and to receive awards and do another sold-out show. It's been amazing, and thank you, from the bottom of our hearts. You've been awesome to us. And [Sunday] night, we'll give you a great big deafening thanks."

To celebrate, the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame will host a "Kiss Fan Day" today from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with highlights from the KISS's 2014 induction into the Rock Hall being played on a loop in the museum's Foster Theater.

Watch a video report from WKYC below.

KISS's final runs of shows will wrap up in early December with a massive concert in at New York City's famed Madison Square Garden.

KISS launched its farewell trek in January 2019 but was forced to put it on hold in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"End Of The Road" was originally scheduled to conclude on July 17, 2021 in New York City but has since been extended to late 2023. The trek was announced in September 2018 following a KISS performance of the band's classic song "Detroit Rock City" on "America's Got Talent".

KISS's current lineup consists of original members Stanley (guitar, vocals) and Simmons (bass, vocals),alongside later band additions, Thayer (since 2002) and Singer (on and off since 1991).

Formed in 1973 by Stanley, Simmons, Peter Criss and Ace Frehley, KISS staged its first "farewell" tour in 2000, the last to feature the group's original lineup.

BLINK-182 drummer Travis Barker has revealed his new wax figure at Madame Tussauds Las Vegas. Named "Punk's First Superstar Drummer" by Rolling Stone, Travis Barker is celebrated as one of the greatest drummers of all time.

The figure is adorned in an outfit donated by Barker and is styled in one of his signature looks, an all-black outfit featuring a leather jacket, boots, pants and a studded belt. Barker's figure also features silver jewelry including nose rings, a chain necklace and a replicated wedding ring.

Barker sat down with the creative team, including sculptors, colorists, hairdressers and stylists, who took time to capture all the small things, taking more than 182 precise measurements of Barker's face and body, including his distinctive tattoos — which total more than 100 — to create true-to-life portraits. Each tattoo was closely documented at the sitting from 3D scan data and photos. Stenciling and coloring the tattoos on Travis's figure took approximately two weeks for the head and seven weeks for the body. Barker's wax twin is the most tatted figure ever created by Madame Tussauds.

"I'm honored, I'm flattered, I'm shocked. It looks so fucking real," said Barker.

For more than 25 years, Barker has graced the pop punk genre with the award-winning BLINK 182. In 2011, Barker released his debut solo album, "Give The Drummer Some". Since then, he has continued to work within a multitude of genres that span all types of collaborators. In addition to being the most sought after drummer on the planet, he's also a highly respected producer. In 2019, Barker established his own record label DTA Records in partnership with Elektra Music Group, and has signed talented artists such as JXDN and Avril Lavigne. Family has always come first in Barker's life - one of his biggest accomplishments is him being a father and he is expanding his family with a son on the way with wife Kourtney Kardashian — who has also been immortalized by Madame Tussauds Wax Museum.

"So many of our customers grew up rocking out to BLINK-182, so we're so excited to bring Travis Barker's figure to Las Vegas for everyone to enjoy. And the attention to detail…have you seen these tattoos?" said marketing manager Linsey Stiglic. "We're incredibly thankful to work with talented studio artists that consistently deliver figures of legends, like Barker, with such extraordinary precision."

Madame Tussauds provides direct access to A-list celebrities, showcasing their impact on society and all aspects of entertainment including music. Fans are encouraged to leave roses by the stairs and meet Barker's wax figure at Madame Tussauds Las Vegas.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas is the ultimate adult playground located inside the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. Take a ride on Miley's life size wrecking ball, bow down to Queen Beyoncé and mingle with the Marvel super hero crew. Raise a glass with Dwayne Johnson, see What's Poppin' with Jack Harlow and show off your best dance moves with Missy Elliott and Lizzo. It's the best of Vegas in one unforgettable place.

For more information, visit  madametussauds.com/lasvegas/.

Photo courtesy of Madame Tussauds

Robert Plant was among the special guest performers at a special charity concert Saturday night (October 21) for The Cancer Platform, an initiative launched by the Cancer Awareness Trust, organized by founding DURAN DURAN guitarist Andy Taylor.

Dubbed "An Evening With Andy Taylor And Special Guests", the event was held at Soho Farmhouse in Oxfordshire, England and featured additional guest appearances by PINK FLOYD bassist Guy Pratt, WHAM! star Andrew Ridgeley, drummer to the stars David Palmer (Rod Stewart, ABC, PET SHOP BOYS, Sting, Bryan Adams, Tom Jones, THE THE, YELLOW MAGIC ORCHESTRA),Brit- and Ivor Novello-nominated singer Ella Henderson, the inimitable Katherine Ryan, broadcaster Nina Nannar and many more.

Plant's set, which can be viewed in full in the Facebook embed below beginning at the 43-minute mark, included renditions of LED ZEPPELIN's "Thank You", "Black Dog" and "Stairway To Heaven".

Robert's rendition of "Stairway To Heaven" marked his first time singing LED ZEPPELIN's 1971 masterpiece in public since the band's 2007 performance at the O2 Arena in London, which was later released as the "Celebration Day" concert film.

Back in 2019, Plant said that he could no longer "relate" to "Stairway To Heaven". During an appearance on the "Ultimate Classic Rock Nights" radio show, Plant spoke candidly about his feelings regarding the "Led Zeppelin IV" classic. "Of course, it was a good song," he said. "The construction of the song, the actual musical construction is very, very good. It's one of those moments that really can stand without a vocal — and, in fact, it will stand again without a vocal, I'm sure, because it's a fine, fine piece of music."

Plant went on to say: "Lyrically, now, I can't relate to it, because it was so long ago. I would have no intention ever to write along those abstract lines anymore. I look at it and I tip my hat to it, and I think there are parts of it that are incredible. The way that Jimmy [Page] took the music through, and the way that the drums reached almost climaxed and then continued... It's a very beautiful piece. But lyrically, now, and even vocally, I go, 'I'm not sure about that.'"

Several years ago, LED ZEPPELIN had to defend itself against a copyright lawsuit alleging "Stairway To Heaven" was stolen from an obscure 1960s instrumental. Jurors in the 2016 trial, which included testimony from Plant and Page, decided that "Stairway" did not infringe on "Taurus", written by the late Randy Wolfe and performed by his band SPIRIT.

During the trial, Plant recalled how he and Page had worked on "Stairway To Heaven" at Headley Grange, a former poorhouse in Hampshire, England. He said: "One evening, Jimmy Page and I sat by the fire, going over bits and pieces." He recalled leaving the rest of the band to work on the song while he went to his bedroom to write the song's lyrics, which he told the court were based on Celtic mythology and "the pastoral areas of Britain I love."

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Andy Taylor & Special guests - Cancer Awareness Trust Concert

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During an appearance on SiriusXM's "Trunk Nation Power Trip Special", Duff McKagan said that GUNS N' ROSES' long-running reunion tour is going incredibly well, in part thanks to the great musical relationship he, singer Axl Rose, guitarist Slash and the other bandmembers are currently enjoying.

GUNS launched its long-rumored and long-awaited reunion tour with an April 2016 club show in Hollywood and appearances in Las Vegas and at California's Coachella festival.

GUNS N' ROSES' reunion tour features classic-lineup members Slash, McKagan and Rose backed by guitarist Richard Fortus, drummer Frank Ferrer, keyboardist Dizzy Reed and second keyboardist Melissa Reese.

Reflecting on how GUNS N' ROSES has been since it launched seven and a half years ago, Duff said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET):  "If you would have asked me [in 2016] — I really do this; I'm not kidding. My mantra is today is today and I have to do that. It's what keeps me sane, and I do everything I can do today… I tell people I love 'em. I do that… If you were to ask me then, 'What's going to happen in seven?' I'd say, 'I don't know, but I'm gonna get through today.' And that's what I do.

"This band is kicking ass," the 59-year-old bassist continued. "Axl is a fucking master. He's a master. I mean, I see him sing every night for three hours. And what he does, I've learned so much from his singing. And Slash is a fucking master, and the band is slamming. So it's really fulfilling to be in that band and to be a part of it is great. We play long tours. We play long shows. We're getting near the end [of the tour]."

Less than two years ago, Slash told CNN about how GUNS N' ROSES' reunion tour has been going: "When we got back together, that whole chemistry and that thing that makes what GUNS N' ROSES is for me and Axl and Duff, it all just sort of came together. After that long a period of time, we'd sort of forgotten what that was like.

"Everybody got along great," he added. "That's actually why the tour has kept going, because initially it was just going to be a couple of shows."

In a 2020 interview with Guitar Player's "No Guitar Is Safe" podcast, Slash spoke about what it felt like for him to step back out on stage with GUNS N' ROSES for the first time in over two decades at the band's concert at the Troubadour in West Hollywood, California.

"That was our first gig back," Slash said. "I think probably the last time that we ever played there was in 1985. I don't think we even played there in 1986. Probably '85 was the last time we played there. "[The April 2016 concert was] our first show together after 20 years. We obviously had more gear and more crew than we did back in the day, I'll tell you that much. And it was loud. But it was a lot of fun. It was an almost poignant moment to fucking stand there and look at that crowd in that sort of room and have that kind of nostalgic feeling."

In 2019, Slash told Guitar.com that his first concert back with GUNS N' ROSES was an "overwhelming" experience. "It was so cool," he said. "Because it was a long time — we're talking more than 20 years from the last show in 1994… it was 22 years since the last time we'd played together. And obviously I'd played with Duff [since then] but there's a certain dynamic in the three of us together. It was awesome, and it's a really great experience."

As previousy reported, GUNS N' ROSES will return to Los Angeles this November to play the iconic Hollywood Bowl for the first time ever. This headlining two-night stint on November 1 and November 2 will also feature special guest THE BLACK KEYS. These shows will mark the first time the band has played L.A. since 2021 and also wrap up GUNS N' ROSES' U.S. tour. The band's 2023 global tour has been their largest run to date, consisting of headlining stadiums and arenas across Europe and North America, and will conclude with a headlining performance at Hell & Heaven festival in Mexico City on November 5.

In conjunction with these Hollywood Bowl shows, GUNS N' ROSES has announced a partnership with the Los Angeles County Parks Foundation (LACPF). A portion of the proceeds from every ticket will be donated to the organization, which supports park programs for under-served communities, seniors, and youth, including the development of environmental education programs. In addition to the donation, GUNS N' ROSES will be designing a special commemorative t-shirt with proceeds also going to LACPF. This limited-edition t-shirt will only be available at the Hollywood Bowl shows.

This two-night stand on Hollywood's most hallowed stage continues a triumphant California homecoming for the band that began over the weekend when they delivered a seismic set at the inaugural Power Trip festival in Indio, California. Over the course of their career, GUNS N' ROSES have left their mark up and down the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood, The Troubadour, The Forum, BMO Stadium, Dodgers Stadium and at The Palladium a few blocks down the road. However, this will be the first time the band descends upon the Hollywood Hills' Hollywood Bowl. It is a full circle moment and the perfect way to cap off their recent North American tour.

FOZZY performed its new single, "Spotlight", live for the first time this past Thursday (October 19) at the Barrelhouse Ballroom in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Fan-filmed video of the performance can be seen below.

"Spotlight" was released the day of the Chattanooga concert via Madison Records/The Orchard. An accompanying music video for the track will arrive on Thursday, October 26.

"Spotlight" was helmed by FOZZY's longtime producer Johnny Andrews (THREE DAYS GRACE, ALL THAT REMAINS, HALESTORM) and sonically refined by mixer Jacob Hanson (VOLBEAT, AMARANTHE, ARCH ENEMY).

When "Spotlight" was made available earlier on October 19, FOZZY frontman Chris Jericho said in a statement: "On the heels of our fifth consecutive top ten hit 'I Still Burn', our new song 'Spotlight' pushes the boundaries of FOZZY's sound while still retaining the punch and maximum riffage you've come to expect! And with the FOZZY mindset of the triple-hook rule, I still can't stop humming the damn thing after dozens of listens!! This is going to be the perfect tune to sing along to live and in your car for a long time to come! It's time to turn on the spotlight!"

FOZZY never falls short in creating innovative imaginative videos, and "Spotlight" is no exception. The video features Jericho in another groundbreaking setting, orchestrating hundreds of drones that lit up the night sky to co-star in this first-ever drone show music video.

This past July, FOZZY guitarist Rich "The Duke" Ward told Diesel of Greenville, South Carolina's 93.3 Planet Rocks that "Spotlight" is "a fantastic song. Anyone who's known me for any length of time always knows I'm [a fan] of dance riffs. I mean, [my longtime band] STUCK MOJO was just a dance band dressed up in evil, heavy metal riffs. I've always been a fan of both. And partially [that was because] I grew up in the late '70s, early '80s in the disco era. That was what music was popular; that was the most popular soundtrack, the most popular album when I was a kid. And I Is loved dance music — Donna Summer and KOOL & THE GANG. These are people that put out albums that I was always in love with. And I loved Dick Clark, I loved America's Top 40, but I also loved 'Soul Train'. This is part of my DNA."

He continued: "So, this new song is a heavy metal dance song. It's just perfect. It's so suited for who I am as a guy and as a musician, as a songwriter. Jericho loves it. It's [producer] Johnny's [Andrews] kind of brainchild. So we're all dunking basketballs; [we're] so excited about it. 'Cause any time you have a new that everybody's on board…

"When you have a band and there's a lot of personalities and people involved in it, there's always somebody who's holding their nose, going, 'Okay, yeah. Okay. New song. Sure.' And they're trying their best to like it, but they don't really, and they're putting their best face forward on this," he added.

"Everyone loves the new song. It's a super-rad song."

FOZZY's latest album, "Boombox", came out in May 2022 and featured the song "I Still Burn", which recently eclipsed two and a half million views on YouTube. It also included the Top 10 singles "Nowhere To Run" and "Sane".

This past spring, FOZZY spent time on the road with UGLY KID JOE as part of the latter band's first tour of the United States in 27 years.

In January 2022, FOZZY parted ways with longtime drummer Frank Fontsere and replaced him with Grant Brooks (THROUGH FIRE).

Fontsere was a founding member of FOZZY, having formed the group in 1999 with Jericho and Rich Ward (guitar).

When FOZZY announced Fontsere's departure, the band said that he was "stepping down to focus on his family and other projects."

FOZZY is Jericho, Ward, Brooks, Billy Grey (guitars) and P.J. Farley (bass).

In a new interview with Real Music With Gary Stuckey, former MEGADETH bassist David Ellefson spoke about why a proposed project featuring him and some other ex-MEGADETH members failed to materialize two decades ago. He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "When Dave [Mustaine] broke the band up in 2002, our manager wanted me and Jimmy [DeGrasso, former MEGADETH drummer] and Al Pitrelli [former MEGADETH guitarist] to come together and try to do something. And we were ready to do it. We were talking to some singers. You know who reached out to us, was the singer from STEELHEART [Miljenko Matijevic], which is the 'Rock Star' movie guy. And I love his voice on some of those songs, like 'We All Die Young'. I mean, just killer, man. I think he's such a great singer. And we were talking to the singer from — uh, what was that band on Maverick Records? God, their name escapes me right now. But there was a few guys around.

"But I always knew this: Every person in MEGADETH was there to basically support Dave's centerpiece — Dave's vision, Dave's songs, Dave's ideas," he continued. "And while we all contributed and we were part of it, it all centered around Dave being the chief engineer of the thing. So when you peel those individual members out and try to go do something on its own, what it really lacks is that leadership. The whole reason we were all there was for that.

"Al is just so… That SAVATAGE gig really developed a sound for him," Ellefson added. "And that's why when that turned into TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA, I mean, Al is just — he's the centerpiece of TSO. He plays on all those records — on TV when you hear those songs, it's all Al. So Al is that guy. And DeGrasso has done so many different things. In some ways, DeGrasso is still the SUICIDAL TENDENCIES guy to me, as much as he's had a ton of gigs. I mean, we did MONTROSE together, we did MEGADETH together, we've done a lot of things together, but to me, he's still kind of the SUICIDAL TENDENCIES guy.

"So, sometimes these things don't work when you sort of peel them out away from the reason we were together, which in that setting was for MEGADETH."

Ellefson recently formed a new original band with ex-MEGADETH guitarist Jeff Young and drummer Fred Aching, all three of whom are also playing together in KINGS OF THRASH.

KINGS OF THRASH recently completed a couple of tours during which it performed MEGADETH's classic albums "Killing Is My Business… And Business Is Good!" and "So Far, So Good… So What!" A live CD/DVD package called "Best Of The West…Live At The Whisky A Go Go" was recorded and filmed live at the legendary Whisky A Go Go in West Hollywood, California on October 15, 2022 and was released this past March via Cleopatra Records. The DVD, which was directed by Michael Sarna for Inmotion Entertainment, includes an appearance by another former MEGADETH member, Chris Poland (guitar).

Ellefson was fired from MEGADETH more than two years ago after sexually tinged messages and explicit video footage involving the bassist were posted on Twitter.

David was in MEGADETH from the band's inception in 1983 to 2002, and again from 2010 until his latest exit.

In 2004, Ellefson filed an $18.5-million lawsuit against Mustaine, alleging the MEGADETH leader shortchanged him on profits and backed out of a deal to turn Megadeth Inc. over to him when the band broke up in 2002. The lawsuit was eventually dismissed and Ellefson rejoined MEGADETH in 2010.

In a new interview with "Good Day Rochester", the morning news show which airs on the Rochester, New York television station 13 WHAM, original FOREIGNER singer Lou Gramm once again addressed the fact that the band is not in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, and has not even been on the ballot for consideration yet. He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Boy, I tell this story a lot… [FOREIGNER guitarist and founder] Mick Jones and the director of the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame were very close friends. Their families were close, they used to run together and have dinner with the families and see each other socially a lot. They were good friends. When we didn't get inducted with our peers, and most of the bands in the area that we were successful in had all gotten into the Hall Of Fame, Mick and our manager went to see… The guy who is the head of the Hall Of Fame is also the owner of Rolling Stone magazine; I can't remember his name offhand. So they went to see — they had an appointment, and they went to see him and asked him if there was something we had done or said or something that insulted him. They couldn't understand why we weren't brought up for induction. And it started to get heated, apparently. I was not there, but this is what I heard. And it got real heated. And when our manager and Mick got up to leave, [the head of the Rock Hall] said, 'It'll be a cold day in hell before FOREIGNER gets into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.' And that was about 25, 30 years ago now."

Two months ago, current FOREIGNER singer Kelly Hansen told Houston Press about the band's exclusion from the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame: "As an entity, I find it unusual that a group of people can have an arbitrary standard from which they decide who is in this substantial sounding-titled Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. They cite as one of their criteria as 'influence.' Well, how many people have picked up a guitar and tried to learn 'Cold As Ice' or 'Hot Blooded'? Or sing 'I Want To Know What Love Is' in a karaoke bar? This band has sold 80 million-plus records. And that's real records, not streams or downloads. That is the definition of influence."

Artists are eligible for the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame 25 years after the release of their first album or single. Criteria for inclusion includes "the influence and significance of the artist's contributions to the development and perpetuation of rock and roll."

Eligible since 2002, FOREIGNER has had a huge number of rock hits, including "Cold As Ice", "Double Vision", "Hot Blooded", "I Want To Know What Love Is", "Juke Box Hero" and "Urgent", and has been nominated for three Grammy Awards, with no wins.

This past April, FOREIGNER's manager Phil Carson addressed the group's absence from the Rock Hall one day after sharing an April Fools' Day post in which he claimed "the entire board of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame met especially to nominate FOREIGNER." In a follow-up social media post, Phil wrote: "Thank you all for your reactions to yesterday's spoof. While it was posted with a sense of humour, it was not without a touch of irony.

"FOREIGNER should be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Mick Jones groundbreaking song writing and production skills coupled with music sales and performances that eclipse most of their contemporaries should be enough to warrant FOREIGNER's nomination and induction. Mick founded FOREIGNER in 1977 and went on to conquer the world with as many Billboard top ten hits as FLEETWOOD MAC, just one less than THE EAGLES, and more than JOURNEY and most of the heritage band Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame alumni. He created the current version of FOREIGNER in 2005 and chose the amazing Kelly Hansen as the lead singer to breath new life into the songs he wrote and co-wrote. That band has performed around 100 shows all over the world each year since then and continues to play to sell out business as they continue the journey on their two year farewell tour.

"Please try to see them before they are done, but most of all, help us put some pressure on the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame board to do the right thing while their is still time for them to deliver a stellar performance at their well deserved induction.

"Thank you for listening."

In August 2022, Gramm was asked in an interview with Sleeve Saturday why he thinks the band has yet to get the Rock Hall nod. Gramm said: "I think it's less about whether we're qualified and I think it might be more personal now. I know that at some point when a lot of our compatriots were being nominated and accepted into it, the bands and the artists that came up when we came up that were inducted into the Rock Hall Of Fame and we were left out, I believe that our manager at that time and Mick went to see the head of the Rock Hall Of Fame and had a discussion with him which led to some heated words. And as that discussion ended — I don't know who; it might have been Jann Wenner from Rolling Stone magazine, who actually was a very good friend of Mick's, I think he told Mick and our manager that it'll be a cold day in hell before FOREIGNER gets in the Rock Hall Of Fame. That's the way it ended up. And sure enough, I bet you 20 years has gone by since that."

Five years ago, Jones was asked by Tigman of the Q103 radio station in Albany if it means anything to him to get inducted into the Rock Hall. Jones responded: "Well, let's say it's not something I wrestle with or something that affects my life. Of course, it would be nice, but sometimes you wonder if it's a political thing more than a musical [thing] or [anything to do with] achievement. Because as far as achievements, we've certainly achieved a tremendous amount with the band. And we'll see. I guess someday. Who knows?"

Gramm was the voice on FOREIGNER's biggest hits, including "Feels Like The First Time" and "Cold As Ice" from the band's eponymous debut in 1977, and later songs like "Hot Blooded" and "I Want to Know What Love Is".

The 73-year-old Gramm left FOREIGNER for good in 2002 and has battled health issues in recent years, including the removal of a non-cancerous tumor. He told the Democrat & Chronicle in 2018 that he was planning to retire, but still reunited with FOREIGNER for several shows that year to celebrate the band's 40th anniversary.

FOREIGNER replaced Gramm with Hansen in 2005. Jones, the only remaining original member of FOREIGNER, suffered from some health issues beginning in 2011, eventually resulting in heart surgery in 2012.

Gramm and Jones's June 2013 performance of "I Want To Know What Love Is" and "Juke Box Hero" at the Songwriters Hall Of Fame in New York City marked the first time the pair performed together in a decade after Gramm left FOREIGNER for a second time. Hansen has fronted the group for the past 18 years.

FOREIGNER's last album, "Can't Slow Down", was the only full-length collection of new songs to have been released by the band since Hansen took over vocals. The album entered the Billboard Top 30, driven by the radio singles "In Pieces" and "When It Comes To Love". The band also has released a series of live albums and compilations, including 2016's "In Concert: Unplugged" and 2017's "40".