San Diego deathgrind band CATTLE DECAPITATION is celebrating the second anniversary of its monstrous tenth studio album, "Terrasite", by releasing a two-hour making-of documentary, "From This Flesh: A Cattle Decapitation Story".

The documentary was shot, directed, and edited by Australian videographer Nicholas VanVidler who produced the band's 2021-released "Finish Them" music video. Van Vidler captured the entire "Terrasite" recording process from beginning to end and has spent the last two years piecing together the footage. The film not only celebrates "Terrasite", but inadvertently examines the history of the band from inception.

Comments CATTLE DECAPITATION vocalist Travis Ryan, "Our buddy Nick VanVidler (NJV Media, BODY PRISON) went to make a studio documentary about 'Terrasite' and what came out was more of an extremely introspective look into the band as a whole with a specificity on how we write and record albums. It's insightful, intense, funny, sad, unfiltered, immersive, and if you're a longtime true fan of the band, you gotta see this thing."

Next month, CATTLE DECAPITATION will return to Europe on a three-week run of headlining shows and festival appearances.

Though many bands have tried, no one articulates the real apocalypse humanity is facing as vividly and succinctly as CATTLE DECAPITATION. With 2019's "Death Atlas", they reached the apex of this, perhaps leading some to believe they had no place left to go beyond such an achievement, but alas, in 2023 the band returned with "Terrasite", which is as bold a statement as they have ever made. It's an album that constantly shifts dynamics and demands a variety of emotional responses.

Metal Injection championed, "another absolutely stellar release from these guys with lyrics and themes that represent the apex of today's extreme music." MetalSucks concurred calling "Terrasite", "a powerful and important album," and, "a must-listen for fans of extreme metal and… anyone who cares about the future of our planet." Added Lambgoat, "They've evolved from a grind band into something even more maniacal with this album; a true and brilliantly executed hybrid of heavy death metal, brutal grind and lyrical terror."

"Terrasite" crushed Billboard charts upon its first week of release, earning the No. 2 position on the Current Hard Music Albums chart, No. 3 on the Current Independent Albums chart, No. 4 on the Rock Albums chart and more and appeared on multiple year-end lists both stateside and abroad.

"Terrasite" features artwork by longtime collaborator Wes Benscoter (VADER, KREATOR, BLOODBATH, HYPOCRISY),was produced by Dave Otero (CEPHALIC CARNAGE, ALLEGAEON),and includes Dis Pater of MIDNIGHT ODYSSEY handling piano and synths.

Photo by Nick VanVidler

DISTURBED's David Draiman proposed to his girlfriend on stage during the band's concert in Sacramento, California Friday night (May 9).

The emotional proposal took place before the second-to-last song of DISTURBED's set at Golden 1 Center, "The Light", which was part of the band's ongoing "The Sickness 25th Anniversary Tour".

After bringing Sarah Uli out on stage, David pulled her close to him and said into the microphone:  "Sarah, my love, you have made my life so much better. You are the light in the darkness for me. I love you more than anything I have ever loved in this world, and it would be the absolute pinnacle of my life and my existence…"

He then reached into his right pocket and pulled out a tiny box and opened it before getting down on one knee. The singer continued: "Sarah Uli, will you marry me?" Sarah quickly nodded yes before David got back up and put the ring from the box on her finger.

Draiman then addressed the crowd: "In case you didn't hear, she said 'yes'."

"Go ahead and join the rest of your family, sweetheart," he directed his soon-to-be wife.

David went public with his relationship with Sarah Uli in January 2024, less than a year after announcing that he had split up with his wife.

According to TheOrg.com, Uli — who, like Draiman, resides in Miami, Florida — has over 12 years of work experience, starting in 2005 as a sales manager at TNT Powersprot. Sarah then worked as a senior nightlife manager at GMR Marketing from 2011 to 2015. Afterwards, Sarah joined Young's Market Company as a sales representative from 2015 to 2017. Sarah then worked as an independent marketing contractor from 2009 to 2017, handling marketing and promotional projects for various companies including Samsung, JBL, and Marlboro. In 2017, Sarah became a territory sales manager at Reynolds American Inc. and worked there until 2020. Sarah then joined AstroNova, Inc. as a regional account executive from 2020 to 2021. Sarah's next role was at secure staffing as a model account manager from 2020 to 2022. She most recently held the position of senior sales account manager at JDI Distribution since April 2022. Sarah's most recent work experience is as an account executive at eSpeakers since January 2023. Acccording to eSpeakers, she is passionate about being healthy and living life to its fullest. She loves to travel and see new places. She also enjoys being in the sun, at the beach, and spending time with her puppy, Raya.

In May 2023, Draiman said he deleted his account on Tinder, calling it "an absolute shitshow". One week after he confirmed that he had been using the dating app to find "the right woman" following his divorce, Draiman offered an update on his search for romance, writing on Twitter: "Holly fucking dumpster fire Batman, @Tinder was an absolute shitishow. Scammers, grifters, fakes and phonies abound. What a colossal fucking nightmare. Deleted it. Dear lord."

On May 5, 2023, one of Draiman's Twitter followers shared a screenshot of what appeared to be the singer's Tinder profile, and he wrote: "Lol dude you see this?! I'm tagging you bc I believe it's fake @davidmdraiman". David quickly responded: "Not fake lol. It's me". This prompted the fan to write, "My bad bro for assuming", to which Draiman replied: "All good. You'd be surprised. It's hard for a guy like me to meet the right woman. I'll tell you, it's been weird so far. Lots of scammers. Trying to figure out how to navigate this new terrain."

Another fan also chimed in on Draiman's presence on Tinder, writing: "Read: David Draiman can't get laid anymore." Draiman fired back with: "I can get laid anytime I want if I'm willing to drop my standards, but my standards are quite high, and I won't dishonor myself that way. Looking for the RIGHT woman, not just ANY woman. Oh. And btw? You're a dick".

In April 2023, Draiman confirmed that he finalized his divorce from his wife of 11 years, Lena Draiman.

The singer opened up about his split in an interview with Kyle Meredith. Speaking about why DISTURBED continues to make music and stay creative after being together for nearly 30 years, David said: "Therapy. [Laughs] It's as pure and simple as that. Right now for me it's the most effective form of therapy.

"I'm very much looking forward to the performance end of things, which is coming up shortly, but the creative end is the perfect way to come to terms with your demons, and I'm definitely stocked up," he explained. "I need this, and I need the music — creating it, performing it, living it — right now more than I ever have.

"I just recently finalized my divorce. I just recently said goodbye to my Akita [dog], my best friend of 14 years. There's gonna be plenty of inspiration for the next body of work. Battling depression, battling all the demons that normally come along with it. And I know that music — our music, other music like it and different types of music in general — is just the perfect means of therapy for so many other people. And it really is my saving grace. I don't know what I would do without it."

Draiman touched upon his divorce again later in the interview when the conversation turned to the DISTURBED song "Don't Tell Me", which appears on the band's latest album "Divisive". A duet with HEART's Ann Wilson, the track was inspired by DISTURBED guitarist Dan Donegan's own recent divorce. "Mine hadn't been finalized yet [when the song was written]," David revealed. "And to be honest, when I wrote the song, I didn't realize how prophetic it was going to be. I kind of hate that shit. [Laughs] It ended up becoming not just about Dan's divorce, unfortunately. It wasn't exactly the same situation, but I definitely have added reverence for the song, and it has added meaning and power to me, especially now."

When David first announced his divorce on his Facebook page in February 2023, he described himself as "heartbroken" and "very lost" and revealed that there was "no infidelity" involved in the split. He went on to say that there was "no bad blood" between him and his now-ex-wife and added that they would "continue to be the best parents" we can be to their son Samuel, who was born in September 2013. "Lena is still the best mother I could ever hope for, so we've got that going for us," he wrote at the time. He added: "I will continue to try to be the best father, and frontman that I can be, and I hope that Sam can forgive me one day for my part in this failure."

In November 2022, Donegan told the Z93 radio station that DISTURBED drummer Mike Wengren also "went through a divorce early on in the pandemic."

More than three years ago, Draiman and his then-wife and son moved to Miami, Florida after living in Honolulu, Hawaii for a few years.

Draiman first announced his family's decision to relocate to Miami in February 2022, explaining on his Facebook page that he and his then-wife "gave it our best shot, but between the extraordinarily long travel times for business, island fever, and a bunch of other factors, we've decided to move on." He also shared a link to a video tour of his then-Honolulu home which had just been listed. That house has since sold for more than $6 million, according to public records.

In September 2023, Draiman sold his house in the Miami suburb of Pinecrest for $5 million. David bought the modern Spanish-Moroccan villa for $5.22 million in March 2022 and first listed it for $5.75 million in January 2023. It was last asking $5.19 million.

This past March, Draiman filed a lawsuit against his former landlord, alleging that mold in a rental home in Coral Gables, Florida caused him to suffer health issues that negatively affected his singing career.

DISTURBED kicked off the U.S. leg of "The Sickness 25th Anniversary Tour" on February 25 at Ford Idaho Center Arena in Nampa, Idaho. The trek celebrates 25 years of DISTURBED's seminal debut album which launched the band into public consciousness and is one of the most important and influential heavy metal albums of all time

On February 21, DISTURBED released a new single, "I Will Not Break", via the band's own label, Mother Culture Records.

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In a recent interview with Billboard Brasil, Kerry King was asked when fans will see SLAYER get inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. The SLAYER guitarist responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Pfft. Why don't we see them there yet? [Laughs] I don't know. We've never even been on the nomination list, so I don't know what they're waiting for. How many more decades do we have to play? Forty years isn't enough, I guess. I don't know. We'll see."

He continued: "I went to [the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame museum in Cleveland, Ohio] thinking I'd be there for, like, a half hour, and I didn't go there until like 10, 15 years ago. It took me a while. And I'm, like, 'Eh, I'll go check it out for maybe like a half hour.' I was in there for four hours, and there's a lot of cool stuff in there."

Circling back to the possibility of SLAYER one day being inducted into the Rock Hall, Kerry said: "Is it something that's gonna make my career complete? Absolutely not. If my parents were alive, I would be stoked if we got in there so I can say, 'Hey, mom, I'm in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.' That would be cool.

"To me, if it happens, it happens, 'cause, obviously, the voting process and the election process is a little faulty. So we'll see. And me here badmouthing it probably isn't helping my situation. [Laughs]

"If we ever got nominated and the fans elected us to be in, it would be honorable, for sure, just to say these kids from Los Angeles got together and ripped the world a new fucking asshole," he added.

When the interviewer noted that SLAYER "changed heavy metal music forever", Kerry said: "Yeah, we were part of it, for sure. There was a movement of a lot of bands, ironically at the same time, that came out and then put thrash on the map."

King previously addressed the likelihood of SLAYER being inducted into the Rock Hall during a 2015 interview with VH1.com. He stated at the time: "I went there [Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame And Museum] last year, and I was surprisingly amazed. It was awesome… I thought I'd be there for, like, 40 minutes. I spent three and a half hours. The stuff in there is amazing. It's way cooler than I ever imagined it would have been. It is really cool."

He continued: "I'm not making a ploy to get in, but it makes me think, 'Man, I hope they call my name one of these days.' I think it took them a long time to get METALLICA in there. But METALLICA basically opens door for us, because when you think of metal who do you think of next from that generation? Of course there's [BLACK] SABBATH, [JUDAS] PRIEST and [IRON] MAIDEN, without question. But for the 'Big Four,' you think METALLICA… We've always been number two on the 'Big Four' shows. So come on, Rock Hall, give us that call! We're ready! I'll donate some change or something. [Laughs]"

Even though artists are eligible for the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame 25 years after the release of their first album or single, iconic hard rock and metal bands like IRON MAIDEN and MOTÖRHEAD have yet to be recognized by the institution, which inducted GUNS N' ROSES in that group's first year of eligibility.

The Rock Hall didn't induct BLACK SABBATH until 2006, and METALLICA followed three years later.

Rock Hall rules state that artists become eligible a quarter century after their first records were released, but the Hall also claims that other "criteria include the influence and significance of the artists' contributions to the development and perpetuation of rock 'n' roll," which is, of course, open to interpretation.

Eligible for induction since 1999, KISS didn't get its first nomination until 2009, and was finally inducted in 2014.

DEEP PURPLE was eligible for the Rock Hall since 1993 but didn't get inducted until 2016.

Having been eligible for induction since 1999, JUDAS PRIEST was finally inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2022. PRIEST received the Musical Excellence Award — originally titled the "Sidemen" category when it debuted — which is given to artists, musicians, songwriters and producers whose originality and influence creating music have had a dramatic impact on music.

Asked about the fact that MOTÖRHEAD's Lemmy (born Ian Fraser Kilmister) and Ronnie James Dio had not yet been inducted into the Rock Hall, King told Loudwire in a 2017 interview: "It's kind of like Ken Stabler not going to the NFL Hall Of Fame. They waited till he died, when he can't enjoy it, and that's a super bummer. Dio is one of my top two singers of all time, and he was a good friend and a good dude. Lemmy, the career speaks for itself.

"The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, it's weird. It's private. It's privately owned, so people from the music industry don't vote. I don't actually know how it works. I've been there and it's very cool, I've gotta tell you that. I went there, like two, three years ago, and I expected to hang out for, like, an hour, and I was there for, like, three hours. It was very cool. If you ever get around Cleveland, check it out. But that being said, I still don't understand the process. But yes, [Lemmy and Ronnie James Dio] motherfucking should be in the Hall Of Fame."

ALICE IN CHAINS has canceled all of its previously announced shows this month after drummer Sean Kinney fell ill.

One day after scrapping a concert at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut due to Sean's health, the band released a follow-up statement saying: "After careful consideration and following the advice of medical professionals, we have made the decision to cancel our upcoming festival performances and the ALICE IN CHAINS headline shows.

"While we were all eager to return to the stage, Sean's health is our top priority at this moment.

"Although the issue requires immediate attention, his long-term prognosis is positive.

"We sincerely appreciate your understanding and support during this time."

When the Uncasville show was called off on Thursday, ALICE IN CHAINS said in a social media post that "Sean experienced a non-life-threatening medical emergency" after the band's soundcheck earlier that evening."

No additional information is currently available on Kinney's condition or medical issue.

The Connecticut show would have been ALICE IN CHAINS' first full concert since an April 2024 appearance at the Sick New World festival in Las Vegas.

ALICE IN CHAINS was scheduled to appear at a few festivals this month, including the MMRBQ in Camden, New Jersey (May 10),Sonic Temple in Columbus, Ohio (May 11) and Welcome To Rockville in Daytona Beach, Florida (May 16). They had also lined up several other headlining shows, in Nashville, Tennessee (May 13) and Dothan, Alabama (May 15). ALICE IN CHAINS is also on the bill for the final BLACK SABBATH/Ozzy Osbourne show on July 5 in Birmingham, United Kingdom.

In a recent interview with "Whiplash", the KLOS radio show hosted by Full Metal Jackie, ALICE IN CHAINS singer William DuVall was asked where things stand with him and his bandmates at the moment. He responded: "Well, we're excited for these dates we have coming up in May. We're excited to get out there and see everyone. We are in regular contact and communication, and so we'll just have to see what comes after May. I really wouldn't wanna say anything more than that. But we're excited about these shows in May. We're really looking forward to it."

In the last four years, ALICE IN CHAINS guitarist/vocalist Jerry Cantrell has released two solo albums, 2021's "Brighten" and 2024's "I Want Blood", and has toured extensively in support of both efforts, performing material spanning his solo career and ALICE IN CHAINS.

ALICE IN CHAINS regrouped in 2006 with DuVall joining the band, and released its third LP with DuVall in the lineup, "Rainier Fog", in August 2018.

Prior to joining ALICE IN CHAINS, DuVall was a member of punk rock bands AWARENESS VOID OF CHAOS, NEON CHRIST, BL'AST! and FINAL OFFERING. DuVall's long musical history also includes COMES WITH THE FALL and Cantrell's solo work.

Cantrell befriended the members of COMES WITH THE FALL in the early 2000s, playing shows with the band on the West Coast, then enlisting the musicians to tour with him as both opening act and backing group in support of his album "Degradation Trip".

DuVall appears on the last three ALICE IN CHAINS albums: 2009's "Black Gives Way To Blue", 2013's "The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here" and the aforementioned "Rainier Fog".

Posted by Alice in Chains on Friday, May 9, 2025

Joe Lynn Turner needs no introduction. Long before he launched his solo career in 1985, his years fronting Ritchie Blackmore's RAINBOW ("Difficult To Cure", "Straight Between The Eyes", "Bent Out Of Shape") established him among the most dynamic vocalists on the metal scene, an accolade that was only amplified by stints with DEEP PURPLE ("Slaves And Masters") and Yngwie Malmsteen ("Odyssey").

Clearly, Turner knows a great guitarist when he hears one, and Marcus Nand is no exception. Born in Spain and a student of flamenco guitar along with blues and rock, Nand has incorporated his diverse influences on such projects as the Los Angeles-based metal band FREAK OF NATURE, which featured WHITE LION singer Mike Tramp, and the world music-influenced rock band ZIROQ with famed David Bowie bassist Carmine Rojas.

Nand's first solo album, 2024's "The Traveler", was described by Forgotten-Scroll.net as "a PERFECT album" for anyone enjoying "sweet, harmonious, exceptional rock music." FOO FIGHTERS keyboardist Rami Jaffee raves, "Marcus knows how to write a song that feels truly rock and at the same time, truly worldly"; ALICE IN CHAINS' Mike Inez says, "He is a great example of a dedicated musician carrying the torch of his genre well into the future."

And still "Ride Captain Ride", the mighty fruit of this devastating partnership, leads both players into a whole new arena. According to the late songwriter Mike Pinera, the song was written "in about 15 minutes [and] we cut it right that day." It lifted his band BLUES IMAGE to international fame and, with close to 25 million Spotify plays to its credit, it remains one of the greatest rock standards of all time.

And one of the greatest Yacht Rock classics as well, which is what makes Turner and Nand's treatment of the song so fascinating, as it preludes one of Cleopatra Records' most highly anticipated albums of the year, "Yacht Metal - Yacht Rock Goes Heavier & Louder".

Nand has always loved the number. "I've been a big fan of Joe Lynn Turner for years, so getting the chance to play on this track was a real thrill," he said. "It was also a lot of fun to revisit 'Ride Captain Ride' — such a classic! I wanted to stay true to the spirit of the original while giving it a heavier edge without losing what made it special in the first place."

Turner added: "It was 1970 and 'Ride Captain Ride' was the big song...it went to #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart but was forever engraved in our lives. I played it in my cover band a thousand times.

"It was a real joy to do a new version for Cleopatra...a fun tune with a positive message...hope you enjoy it as much as I still do!"

Featuring contributions from Thor, Vinnie Moore, BULLETBOYS, Cherie Currie, URIAH HEEP veteran Mick Box, MEGADETH's Chris Poland, MANOWAR's Ross The Boss, VIXEN's Britt Lightning and another RAINBOW alumnus Graham Bonnet, "Yacht Metal" is guaranteed to uproot everything you have ever thought you knew about both the genre and the songs that sail on it. A lineup that also includes "Takin' It To The Streets", "Just The Two Of Us" and "You Can Do Magic".

Pinera spoke about the super-weird coincidence that has also established "Ride Captain Ride" in the annals of rock's most Fortean favorites. He wrote the song on a Model 73 Rhodes piano, and the song's opening rhyme riffed on that number… "73 men sailed out from the San Francisco Bay…."

He said: "Now, here is the weird thing that happened. It got released, it was in the Top Ten, No. 1 in a lot of regional markets, and my manager gets a call from the Pentagon, wanting to know how I, as the writer of those words, knew about the secret spy ship USS Pueblo? My manager goes 'what are you talking about? I don't think Mike knows anything about that stuff. Ask him about the latest Gibson guitar and he'll know, but he doesn't know anything about secret spy ships.' Which I didn't. But it turned out that I had written a song that coincided with an incident that had not yet happened; it took place after the song was released; and here's what made it so freaky. There were seventy-three men on board who sailed out from the San Francisco Bay on this secret spy mission that nobody was supposed to know about, and they got in trouble out there on the ocean, they were captured and taken prisoner. Seventy-three men sailed off into history. As far as I was concerned, those lyrics were free form flow of consciousness stuff, but then you get to the third verse…

"At one of my concerts years later, I met the radio guy from the USS Pueblo who told me something I didn't know about that third verse, that while they were actually being captured, it was during a massive storm and they couldn't get the word out that they needed help because the bad weather was blocking the radio transmission."

Photo credit: Agata Nigrovskaya

During an appearance on Full Metal Jackie's nationally syndicated radio show, EXODUS guitarist Gary Holt opened up about the recent departure of singer Steve "Zetro" Souza and the decision to bring Rob Dukes back. He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Well, no one foresaw lineup changes. We never foresaw 'em the first time [we had Rob in the band], but you'd come to kind of a road crossing where we just felt like things were not going the way they needed to be, with everybody being on the same page and being happy about things. And as far as Rob coming back — I'm 60 years old. I don't wanna meet new people [laughs] — I don't. And Rob's one of my best friends and we talk all the time. And yeah, I thought for, like, half a second, 'Maybe we'll get some guy half my age who's got washboard abs and could still jump off a drum riser without his knees giving out for a week.' But no — I'd rather stick with my friend. And his vocals on these new songs are just fucking gonna blow people's minds. It's insane."

Asked how Dukes's return to EXODUS changed the direction or his approach to the band's next studio album, which is currently being recorded for a 2026 release, Holt said: "I write songs for myself, and we all do; EXODUS writes for EXODUS. And I've never changed approach for anything. When Steve Souza rejoined us for '[Blood In] Blood Out', I'd already written those songs. And some people are, like, 'Oh, they were perfect for him.' Well, they were what was written, and I'm gonna write 'em regardless of who's manning the microphone. But Rob's coming back certainly energized me. And that's when I was, like, 'Let's record two [albums],' and then I can have that mythical vacation in between albums and not have to go back in the studio until I'm 70. Who knows if that'll even happen? So that's the way we look at it — record two albums and who knows what happens between now and then? I could get hit by a car, and then have a posthumous release — 'Gary Holt's last performance', whatever. You think about that stuff at 60 years old. It's crazy."

Souza joined EXODUS in 1986 after previously fronting the band LEGACY (which later became TESTAMENT). He remained in the band until their hiatus in 1993, but rejoined them for two years from 2002 to 2004. Dukes had joined EXODUS in 2005 (following Souza's departure) and remained until 2014, when Souza rejoined.

Dukes previously joined EXODUS in January 2005 and appeared on four of the band's studio albums — "Shovel Headed Kill Machine" (2005),"The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A" (2007),"Let There Be Blood" (2008, a re-recording of EXODUS's classic 1985 LP, "Bonded By Blood") and "Exhibit B: The Human Condition" (2010).

EXODUS played its first concert with Dukes in nearly 11 years on April 5 at the Decibel Magazine Metal & Beer Fest: Philly at the Fillmore in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

In a recent interview with CBS SF, Holt stated about Souza: "I've got nothing but love for [Zetro]. It's not like the last time he left the band, when it was on really bad terms. At 60 years old, this job gets fucking hard. And if you don't like to travel, and no longer like to be out on the road and and you want to cut the touring way back and all that, we can no longer make a living at this. We literally would have to go get day jobs. That's pretty much what happened. One guy wasn't enjoying it anymore. And none of us enjoy being away from home all the time. It sucks. My happy place is being around my family. I can speak for all of us, Steve included. But while I can — this whole age thing — while I can still tour for six weeks and crush it and go out and play seven, eight, nine shows in a row, I'm going to do it. Until I can't, and then I'll slow down. But if we start slowing down now, eventually it's just going to come to a stop."

Regarding how he ended up back in the EXODUS fold, Rob told Mark Strigl in February: "How it happened was Lee [Altus, EXODUS guitarist] and Gary called me, and Tom [Hunting, EXODUS drummer] called me, and they all spoke to me individually to kind of see where I was at. And then they asked me, and I said, 'Sure.'

"I'm not gonna talk about why they did what they did [as far as parting ways with Zetro] — that's on them to talk about, 'cause I have no idea," he continued. "I mean, I kind of do, but it's not my place. So, I'll let them handle that end.

"I was as surprised as you, man," Dukes admitted. "I mean, when I got the call… Me and Gary didn't speak as much, but me and Tom talk all the time. Me and Lee constantly talk about hockey and give each other shit — I'm a Rangers fan; he's a Flyers fan — so we're always in contact, especially during hockey season. And then, like I said, man, it came out of nowhere for myself too. And I took a day and decided, 'Yeah, okay, I can make it work.' 'Cause I have to put my life on hold, the life I've been building for 10 years as a car builder and a welder. But I sat down with the people I work for and the people I work with and I explained the situation and they were all, like, 'Yeah, go do it, man. You only live once.' And I was, like, 'Yeah, cool. That's exactly how I was thinking about it.' So, it all worked out, man. And everybody's stoked and happy."

During an appearance on a recent episode of the "Rock And Roll Geek Show" podcast, which is hosted by former EXODUS bassist Michael Butler, Holt opened up about Souza's departure, saying: " People ask [why we fired Zetro] — everybody wants to know because we've chosen not to tell anybody. All I ever tell people is, marriages don't often work. And just 'cause you saw a married couple out in public that seemed happy, you don't know what's going on at home. I don't know if the wife's throwing frying pans at his head or he's fucking drunk out of his ass, fucking screaming at him and slapping the kids. You don't know. Just 'cause they go out in public and they put on a happy face.

"We've got nothing but respect for Zetro, and we've got love [for him] and I'm honored to have made some great music [with him]. But I'm also 60 years old, and the five of us need to be on the same page. And now we are."

After Butler suggested that musicians sometimes have different personalities and "people can get on your nerves sometimes", Holt clarified: "It's not even a matter of [anything] like that because we all get on each other's nerves. It's just as you get older, this job, either you still love it or it becomes incredibly difficult… For me, [it's] fucking not [difficult] at all. And so, for whatever our reasons, four guys had a reason to do what we did."

Asked if he personally called Zetro to tell the singer he was fired, Gary responded: "I don't really wanna go into all that. [Laughs] There's no hate involved. It's just the fucking marriage didn't work. Sometimes you get along with your ex. Sometimes you don't hate your ex; you just can't be married to them anymore… Sometimes the wife still likes him and he's a good father, but God, what a fucking crappy husband. Or what a bad life. But she was good with the kids and she's a member of the PTA. Who fucking knows?

"What's funny is online people are coming up with their conspiracy theories [about why Zetro was fired]," he continued. "It's like Pizzagate. It's fucking crazy. Like that it had something to do with that he just got married. Like, 'Rob Dukes got married right when he got fired, and Zetro got married [before he got fired]. Hmm. Pattern?' Dude, I've got grandkids. Like I fucking have a problem with my singer being married. Fucking stupid. I had one guy, when it happened, he got on my Instagram and he broke down his timeline of how we treat singers. Well, the first thing he said was, 'Gary Holt's just all about the money.' And if you fucking think parting ways with your singer is a fucking path to financial security, you're fucking high. What the fuck's wrong with you? And then he broke down his whole timeline. And I politely corrected his timeline for him. I don't respond to fucking people — I ain't got time for — but the guy goes, 'Band hires Paul [Baloff]. Fires Paul.' True. Paul was fired. Paul's life was a mess. In hindsight, we later became just as big a mess as he ever was. And then he said, 'Band hires singer, Steve Souza.' And he goes, 'Band fires Steve Souza.' No, we broke up [after] 'Force Of Habit'. He goes, 'Band rehires Paul Baloff. Band fires Paul Baloff.' I'm, like, 'He fucking died. We didn't fire him. He died.' And then he said, 'Band hires Steve Souza. Band fires Steve Souza.' No, he quit… In his eyes, we fired the dead guy. And I was, like, 'Just fuck off,' you know?, I politely said, 'Hey, buddy, let me correct your timeline for you.' I didn't go, 'Fuck you, dude.' I just said, 'Let me fix your timeline.'

"People are dumb," Holt added. "And I don't like to be mean to people. I've done stupid shit myself. But people fucking create whatever theories they can come up with in their little brains."

Although EXODUS rarely gets mentioned alongside the so-called "Big Four" of 1980s thrash metal — METALLICA, MEGADETH, SLAYER and ANTHRAX — the aforementioned "Bonded By Blood" LP inspired the likes of TESTAMENT, DEATH ANGEL, VIO-LENCE and many others to launch their careers and is considered one of the most influential thrash metal albums of all time.

QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE will unveil the cinematic realization of a dream with the June 5 premiere of "Alive In The Catacombs", an audiovisual document of the band's long-rumored performance in the tunnels of the famed Catacombs of Paris.

Filmed and recorded in July 2024, "Queens Of The Stone Age: Alive In The Catacombs" captures QOTSA as you've never seen or heard them before. This utterly unique once-in-a-lifetime experience features a carefully selected setlist spanning the QOTSA catalog, each song chosen and epically reimagined for the Catacombs. The result is an unprecedented incarnation of QOTSA at their most intimate, yet surrounded by literally millions of human remains — "the biggest audience we've ever played for," says QOTSA leader Joshua Homme.

The Catacombs Of Paris is a sprawling 320km (200 miles) ossuary beneath the surface of Paris. With a foundation of several million bodies buried in the 1700s, skeletal remains are largely exposed, with much of the walls built of skulls and bones.

Homme had dreamt of staging a QOTSA performance in the Catacombs since his first visit nearly 20 years ago. The city of Paris, however, had never granted permission to any artist to play within the sacred tunnels. QOTSA, being law-abiding citizens, waited until their vision was sanctioned.

Hélène Furminieux (Les Catacombes de Paris) said: "The Catacombs Of Paris are a fertile ground for the imagination. It is important to us that artists take hold of this universe and offer a sensitive interpretation of it. Going underground and confronting reflections on death can be a deeply intense experience. Josh seems to have felt in his body and soul the full potential of this place. The recordings resonate perfectly with the mystery, history, and a certain introspection, notably perceptible in the subtle use of the silence within the Catacombs."

Every aesthetic decision, every choice of song, every configuration of instruments… absolutely everything was planned and played with deference to the Catacombs — from the acoustics and ambient sounds — dripping water, echoes and natural resonance — to the darkly atmospheric lighting tones that enhance the music. Far from the sound-insulated confines of the studio or the comfort of onstage monitors, "Alive In The Catacombs" sees the band not only rise to this challenge, but embrace it.

Homme recalls: "We're so stripped down because that place is so stripped down, which makes the music so stripped down, which makes the words so stripped down… It would be ridiculous to try to rock there. All those decisions were made by that space. That space dictates everything; it's in charge. You do what you're told when you're in there."

The result is QOTSA distilled down to their most elemental form — Homme, Troy Van Leeuwen, Michael Shuman, Dean Fertita and Jon Theodore augmented by a three-piece string section, employing chains and chopsticks as makeshift percussion instruments. "Alive In The Catacombs" is QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE stripped to their barest essence by necessity (you can't call it "unplugged" if there are no actual electrical outlets to plug into),McGyver-ing a car battery to power an electric piano. And unfiltered, as every song was recorded live in a complete take with no overdubs or edits.

Words fail to convey the magnificence of "Queens Of The Stone Age: Alive In The Catacombs". Its truly stunning balance of subtlety and grandeur must be experienced to be appreciated. The beauty is in the struggle (both internal and external). This is Homme at his most physically vulnerable yet ultimately his most triumphant.

"Queens Of The Stone Age: Alive In The Catacombs" was produced by La Blogothèque and directed by Thomas Rames, and is being released by QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE and Matador Records. The film will be available to rent or purchase via qotsa.com where pre-orders are currently available. Fans who purchase "Alive In The Catacombs" by June 7 will receive exclusive access to behind-the-scenes footage in addition to full streaming and download access. An audio-only version will be announced in the coming weeks.

The world can be cruel, but electronic metal group Solence offers a simple cure. The charming quartet of high-energy Swedes is defined as much by their endless optimism as their boundless talent. Their upcoming fifth album, Angels Calling, due out October 3 via Better Noise Music, combines big pop hooks and electro savvy with the heavy yet melodic intensity of trailblazing Swedish metal into a distinctive international sound equal parts hypnotic and uplifting.

Preorders for Angels Calling, which include an instant download of the first single “Where Were You..?” are available here.

Solence will hit the road later this year for a European tour opening for Nothing More, which launches November 7 in Finland, along with Catch Your Breath and Ankor. General tickets will be available on Friday, May 16 at 10 AM CET on their official website.

“‘Where Were You..? is a fast and fun song about a friend letting you down when you needed them the most,” says guitarist David Strääf. “The song really keeps the tempo up with a big chorus, modern production and a very heavy, bouncy and genre bending breakdown!”

Solence returns with fresh visuals, a new look, and a retrofitted sound that combines the best of their past with a look into the future for both the group and the genre. “For some reason, I’ve always felt like my time on earth is limited, as if I might die young,” frontman Markus Videsäter explains. “Our music is about making the most of life, relationships, and passion before heaven calls us home.”

Based out of Los Angeles and originally hailing from Sweden, Solence’s lineup consists of frontman Markus Videsäter alongside guitarist David Strääf, keyboardist Johan Swärd, and drummer David “Viking” Vikingsson. They focus all its energy on uplifting anyone in a dark state of mind to a brighter place. “Solence is all about having a good time,” Videsäter declares. “Our message to our existing fans and potential new ones is that we want to bring the fun back into rock n’ roll.”

“Storytelling is a lot of fun,” he continues. “I write about motivation and how to get myself up in the morning. So, yes, there’s still a lot of that. We bundle it up in a lot more energy and craziness. Angels Calling is so cool. I love every single song. I’m so excited about how massive it feels.”

Angels Calling is the follow-up to their EP Blue Monday (Better Noise Music), released this past January with three new songs: “F**k The Bad Vibes,” “A Banger A Day Keeps The Doctor Away,” and “Who You Gonna Call? (Solence),” which Houston Chronicle highlighted in their “Top 50 Best Underground Music Videos of 2024” list. It also includes two remixed versions of their hit track, “Good F**king Music” by Swedish-based producer MVRE and L.A.-based producer kodeblooded (Asking Alexandria, Charlotte Sands).

The band have built a dedicated global audience on past tours opening for bands including Five Finger Death Punch, Ice Nine Kills, Electric Callboy, We Came As Romans, and The HU, in addition to festival appearances across Europe (Rock For People Festival, Graspop Metal Meeting, Resurrection Fest, Tuska Festival, Nova Rock Festival) and the U.S. (Aftershock, Louder Than Life, Blue Ridge Rock Fest). A Solence performance is a participatory sport, with audiences encouraged to sing and bounce along.

In 2025, Solence continues to spread its life-affirming message. “‘Until I hear the ‘Angels Calling’ reminds us that life is way too short to worry about doubt or making mistakes,” Markus Videsäter points out. “We never know when our time is up, so let’s make the most of it while we can!”



Tracklisting:

“Angels Calling”
“Monsters In My Head”
“Where Were You…?”
“MESS”
“ “Dead_Alive”
“Wish You The Worst”
“Dangerous To Love”
“All Of The Pain Must Go”
“Angels vs Demons”

Today, Argentinian singer Santiago Ramonda is pleased to announce his debut album, The Walls Are Crumbling Down, due out on July 18 via Frontiers Music Srl. To celebrate the announcement, Ramonda has released the first single titled “Gone,” which is accompanied by a visualizer, available to view below.

Talking about the first single, Santiago Ramonda commented: “I think this song is a deep reflection on the importance of living in the present and taking advantage of the opportunities that come our way. The lyrics are emotional and resonant, and the melody is catchy and memorable. I like how the song invites us not to wait too long to do what we want, and not to let fear or uncertainty hold us back from making decisions and enjoying life. The song has a powerful and relevant message for anyone looking to live more authentically and fully.”

Santiago started as a guitarist and later became a singer, developing his skills primarily through practice and self-knowledge. Although he has received valuable advice and guidance from some experts, including Iván Sencion, his growth as an artist has been largely self-directed.

In 2020, after posting a cover of Joe Lynn Turner’s “Prelude/Endlessly” on his YouTube channel, Santiago began to catch the attention of some players in the global melodic rock scene. Guitarist Stuart Smith (Heaven & Earth), with whom the label has a long-standing relationship, shared Santiago’s videos with the label.

Ramonda had already caught the attention of the melodic hard rock scene with Stormwarning’s debut album, and he’s back again—this time under the direction of Serafino Perugino, president of Frontiers Records – to prove his immense vocal talent, crafting an album of melodic rock gems!

The Walls Are Crumbling Down is a solid album, showcasing songs with big choruses, a wide range of vocal arrangements, and Santiago’s tone – striking a perfect balance between vocal extension and a warm, bluesy digression (with “Blue Heart Of Stone” being a clear example) – alongside amazing guitar work by Suraz Sun, guitarist for Girish And The Chronicles.

Describing the album, Ramonda added: “This album is a battle cry for all those who love rock and refuse to let it die. With this album, we want to keep the flame of classic hard rock alive and take it to new places. For all those fighting to keep the spirit of rock alive, this album is a message of hope and resilience. And to see my name on that banner is a dream fulfilled, an honor that drives me forward with passion and dedication. I especially want to thank having had the opportunity to work with Alessandro Del Vecchio, a great honor for me that has enriched this project in an invaluable way. We will keep on rocking, and with you, we will take it to the top again!”

Pre-order the album here.



The Walls Are Crumbling Down tracklisting:

“Under The Moonlight”
“The Walls Are Crumbling Down”
“Don’t Look For Love”
“Fight Fire With Fire”
“Blue Heart Of Stone”
“Without Love”
“High Voltage Hearts”
“Gone”
“Bad Girl”
“The One To Blame”
“World’s Gone Crazy”

German metalcore crew, The Narrator, announce their signing to Nuclear Blast Records. After a very successful time with Blood Blast Distribution, Nuclear Blast Records are more than happy to welcome the band to the label.

To celebrate this new partnership The Narrator announce today their brand new single, “Unbind Me”, for May 28. Pre-save “Unbind Me” here.



The Narrator states: “Signing with Nuclear Blast marks a true milestone for us. Throughout our journey, it’s always been important to work with partners who understand and support our vision. With Nuclear Blast, we’ve found exactly that. We’re beyond excited for what’s ahead. And it all kicks off soon: our first single of this new collaboration, Unbind Me, drops at the end of May.”

Marcus Hammer, Managing Director for Nuclear Blast Records comments: “Witnessing The Narrator’s steady growth whilst distributing their music via our in-house BloodBlast offering over the last couple of years has been a real joy. So, it gives me great pleasure to welcome the band on to a full label deal here at Nuclear Blast, where we can build the team around them and continue to grow their success internationally. Here’s to the future!”

Nuclear Blast Records A&R Manager Leoni Dowidat comments: “We are super happy and proud to welcome The Narrator into the Nuclear Blast family. Despite a still young band history, The Narrator have established themselves as one of the most exciting players in modern metalcore. We can’t wait to be a part of the next bright chapter in their career!”

Professionally filmed video of METALLICA performing the song "Holier Than Thou" on April 24 at Rogers Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada can be seen below.

METALLICA played the first concert of 2025 on April 19 at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, New York. Support at the show came from PANTERA and SUICIDAL TENDENCIES.

Since opening April 2023 in Amsterdam, "M72" has seen METALLICA play to some three million fans. Variously hailed as "an altogether life-affirming experience" (Billboard),"impossible to leave unsatisfied" (Austin Chronicle),"a stone-cold stunner of a show" (Detroit News),"the mother of all summer concerts" (Worcester Telegram Gazette) and "as tight and furious as METALLICA has sounded in ages" (Los Angeles Times),"M72" continues to amaze fans and critics alike. The tour concluded its triumphant 2024 run with four nights at Mexico City's Estadio GNP Seguros, where METALLICA played to more than 250,000 fans over the course of two No Repeat Weekends.

The "M72" world tour's 2025 itinerary continues the hallowed No Repeat Weekend tradition, with each night of the two-show stands featuring entirely different setlists and support lineups. These include the band's first Nashville shows in five years on May 1 and 3 at Nissan Stadium, as well as METALLICA's return to Tampa after 15 years on June 6 and 8 at Raymond James Stadium. "M72" has also confirmed its much-anticipated Bay Area hometown play, to take place June 20 and 22 with the band's debut performances at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara.

In a new twist, "M72" 2025 features several single shows bringing the tour's full production, with its massive in-the-round stage, to venues including two college football stadiums: the aforementioned JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, New York on April 19, and METALLICA's first ever visit to Blacksburg, Virginia, home of the Virginia Tech Hokies. The May 7 show at Lane Stadium marked the culmination of 20-plus years of "Enter Sandman" playing as the Hokies take the field.

In addition to playing football stadiums across the nation, the "M72" world tour's 2025 itinerary will also include one festival headline — May 9 and 11 will mark a festival/No Repeat Weekend combo as METALLICA plays two headline sets at Sonic Temple at Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.

Support on "M72"'s 2025 North American run comes from PANTERA, LIMP BIZKIT, SUICIDAL TENDENCIES and ICE NINE KILLS.

"M72"'s 2025 North American leg is produced by Live Nation and presented by new sponsor inKind. inKind rewards diners with special offers and credit back when they use the app to pay at 2,000-plus top-rated restaurants nationwide. The company provides innovative financing to participating restaurants in a way that enables new levels of sustainability and success. METALLICA fans can learn more at inkind.com.

As always, a portion of proceeds from every ticket sold will go to local charities via the band's All Within My Hands foundation. Established in 2017 as a way to give back to communities that have supported METALLICA over the years, All Within My Hands has raised over $15 million — providing $8.2 million in grants to career and technical education programs including the ground-breaking Metallica Scholars Initiative, now in its sixth year, over $3.6 million to combat food insecurity, more than $3.5 million to disaster relief efforts.

Today, melodic hard rockers, Laguna, are excited to announce the release of their debut album, The Ghost Of Katrina, out on July 11 via Frontiers Music Srl.

In addition, the first single, “Ghost Behind The Mask,” is out now accompanied by a music video, available to view below.

Vocalist Andrés Espada describes the new single by saying: “’Ghost Behind The Mask’ is a song with a dark aura. Exploring that insidious part of our minds that shows doubt and fuels insecurity, whispering criticism and messages of inadequacy. The song captures the internal struggle against those thoughts that tell us we’re not good enough, that we’re not worthy of love or success. It’s a reminder that often, the toughest battle we face is the one waged within our own minds.”

Hailing from the northern part of Mexico, from the arid desert of Torreón, Coahuila, Laguna is a five-piece hard rock band ready to take the world by storm with their debut album, The Ghost Of Katrina.

Drawing from the European and Scandinavian melodic hard rock scene, Laguna’s sound is an electrifying blend of powerful production, anthemic choruses, and in-your-face guitar riffs deriving from influences like One Desire, H.E.A.T., and other renowned acts from the scene.

The Ghost Of Katrina is produced by Jimmy Westerlund (known for his work with One Desire and more recently Giant), and perfectly captures Laguna’s high-energy and dynamic style, bringing to life a heavy yet melodic sound that’s both thrilling and emotionally charged. The songs feature strong hooks, vibrant instrumentation, and an intensity that reflects the band’s unrelenting passion for hard rock.

Pre-order The Ghost Of Katrina here.



The Ghost Of Katrina tracklisting:

Intro – “Katrina”
“Ghost Behind The Mask”
“Living On The Line”
“Punk Boy” (ft. Jimmy Westerlund)
“Wildfire”
“These Chains”
“Electric High”
“My Syndrome”
“Bring Me To Life”
“Sinner Of Tomorrow”

The Portugal News is reporting that Coimbra City Council has approved global support in the order of €450,000 to the promoter Everything Is New for the Guns N’ Roses concert at the Estádio Cidade de Coimbra in Coimbra, Portugal on June 6.

The financial support of 125 thousand euros – to which 325 thousand euros in indirect support are added – was approved by a majority in a meeting of the municipal executive of Coimbra, with votes in favour from the Juntos Somos Coimbra coalition (PSD/CDS/NC/PPM/ALIANÇA/RIR/VOLT) and votes against from the PS and the CDU.

The city government’s support for the promoter Everything Is New provides for direct financial support of 125 thousand euros, in addition to exemptions relating to the use of the Stadium (between May 19 and June 10), replacement of the lawn and irrigation systems, cleaning of landscaped areas, provision of stalls and fences, support for communication and promotion, exemptions from noise licenses, improvised enclosure and occupation of public space, totalling 325 thousand euros.

It also proposes close collaboration between municipal services, the promoter and the security and civil protection forces, in order to guarantee all logistical, operational and security conditions for the event, which “is expected to attract thousands of visitors and have broad media coverage.”

In a new interview with Thomann's Drum Bash, RAMMSTEIN's Christoph Schneider was asked what the most important thing is for him, from the drummer perspective, when it comes to playing with the band. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Don't make the singer angry. Yeah, that means that you have to support the band and lay down your fundament for the other musicians. And this has to be clear, simple and steady. When you are doing too complicated things — it depends on the songs, [but if] you're doing things where they do not belong in the songs, then everybody else will be upset and you get a look. [Laughs] So, for me, it's a question of [having] some discipline, not to do too much, even if you are excited and have some ideas sparking in your head. Stick to the song like the song is."

Asked if there was ever a moment when he tried something in a song during a RAMMSTEIN concert and the other members of the band gave him a disapproving look, Christoph said: "Many times. Of course. There were also other earlier times in my drummer career I wanted to develop maybe more double bass or whatever, and then you're trying to do these things all the time in different songs where they do not belong, but it works somehow. But then mostly my colleagues, they're not very excited about it. They want me to play very straight and easy and more, yeah, supportive than to show off what maybe all drummers can do. And that's why [my style] became quite simple over the years. Of course I had more the intention, more ideas for my style, but when we started playing to click tracks and sequences, I figured out that I had a lot of things I couldn't play anymore, like I thought I could play, because I didn't keep the timing. And then that I set them beside at first, and so my style become more transparent and more simple."

Schneider was born in Berlin, East Germany. His parents wanted to learn him an instrument, so he went to a school connected with an orchestra where he got the choice between trumpet, clarinet or trombone. His musical hearing abilities were educated during that time and he became very talented on the trumpet. He always was interested in being a drummer and was trying hard to educate himself without having access to a real drum set in his early years. Finally he managed to take the seat in his first bands like DIE FIRMA and later FEELING B. The bands became bigger, the music heavier and finally RAMMSTEIN was founded.

RAMMSTEIN's latest European stadium tour launched on May 11, 2024 at Airport Letňany in Prague, Czech Republic and wrapped up with two performances at Veltins-Arena in Germany, Gelsenkirchen on July 26, 2024 and July 27, 2024.

In August 2023, Berlin public prosecutor's office dropped its investigation into accusations of sexual offenses by RAMMSTEIN singer Till Lindemann, citing a lack of evidence. Lindemann always denied the allegations, with his lawyers calling them "without exception untrue".

In August 2024, RAMMSTEIN released a statement addressing the past allegations, saying: "Since last summer, we have been actively dealing with the accusations made against the band. We take this dispute very seriously, even if much of it is unfounded and excessively exaggerated. It is an inner process that will accompany us for a long time to come. Each of us does this in our own way and deals with it differently."

The band also expressed gratitude, saying: "At this point, we would particularly like to thank our families and loved ones for their unrestricted support and love; they too were hit hard by the allegations made and the media's handling of them.

"We thank our crew, our management, all our employees and everyone who has supported us and remained loyal along this journey. This massive stadium tour with this great show and this extraordinary stage has now come to an end after 135 concerts in 5 years with 6 million fans."

"It's not RAMMSTEIN. It's not us. It's not you. The path continues."

RAMMSTEIN's latest album, "Zeit", arrived in April 2022.

Lindemann (vocals),Paul Landers (guitar),Richard Z. Kruspe (guitar),Flake (keyboards),Oliver Riedel (bass) and Christoph Schneider (drums) spent two years working on the eleven songs on the LP. They were once again assisted by Berlin producer Olsen Involtini. "Zeit" was recorded at La Fabrique Studios in St. Rémy de Provence, France.

Tonic Breed, the metal project led by Norwegian musician Patrik K. Svendsen, is gearing up to release “Anew” on June 19, a crushing new single featuring none other than legendary drummer Chris Adler (Lamb Of God, Megadeth).

“I was quite curious when I got an email – and some riffs – from Patrik,” says Adler. “Clearly he’s done some cool shit and I was flattered to be on his radar… I researched it for a minute and agreed.”

Patrik originally sent over a rough demo of the song, a storm of riffs strung together with placeholder drums and a suggested structure. “Chris was actually on board right away,” Patrik explains. “We worked together on a new structure for the song, and Chris took the lead on shaping it into something far more unique and effective than my original draft.”

“His riffs are fucking sick,” Adler continues. “We did have to take a minute to both feel good about what this would be – meaning I beat up his song like a fucking Rocky movie – but I knew it had the parts and strength.”

The final version of “Anew” is a precision-crafted, high-energy track that fuses Patrik’s Norwegian riff work with Adler’s unmistakable rhythmic drive. “To me, this is the most Lamb Of God-style drumming I’ve heard from Chris since he was in Lamb Of God,” Patrik says. “I’m sure some metal guitarists would kill to hear Chris Adler’s drumming behind their riffs – I’ve been lucky enough to experience that firsthand.”

By the end of the collaboration, Adler described the finished product as “sounding like an action movie that’s fun to watch,” a nod to the song’s explosive dynamics and cinematic flow.

“It’s been a privilege to work with Patrik,” Adler says. “Humbling. You’ll know what I mean when you hear it.”

The track was mixed and mastered by acclaimed producer Machine, who also handled Lamb Of God’s Ashes Of The Wake and Sacrament. “The sound is brilliant,” says Patrik. “Machine absolutely nailed it.”

“Anew” will drop June 19 as a stand-alone single and is also set to appear on the next full-length Tonic Breed album. The new release continues the project’s series of high-profile collaborations, which already include Dirk Verbeuren (Megadeth), Michael Gilbert (Flotsam And Jetsam), and Björn Strid (Soilwork).

Until “Anew” is released, check out Tonic Breed’s latest collaboration with Flotsam and Jetsam guitarist Michael Gilbert for a guest solo on the new single “The Die Is Cast”.

Straight to the point. No fluff, no filler, “The Die Is Cast” is pure, hard-hitting thrash from start to finish, with a touch of melody woven in. The song is about a powerful war machine that lies broken and abandoned, surrounded by the wreckage of others like it. Its silence feels heavy, as if it’s aware of the destruction it once brought and the emptiness that followed.

“The Die Is Cast” was performed, written, and produced by Patrik K. Svendsen with mixing by Adrian Bjerketvedt in Sarpsborg, Norway, and mastered by Steve Kitch.

Playing with acts such as ELO, Elton John, Glen Campbell, Lee Aaron and John Waite, amongst a plethora of other platinum selling pop and rock icons not only makes you an in demand sideman, it also helps you develop your creative side. And, silly name aside, that’s exactly what the three members of The Squirts have capitalized on.

Formed while they were on tour as Rick Springfield’s backing band two decades ago, Matt Bissonette (bass / lead vocals), George Bernhardt (guitars, backing vocals) and Rodger Carter (drums, percussion) aka The Squirts came to life as a way to burn up some creative energy – and wound up becoming Rick’s opening act before turning around and playing alongside the headliner himself.

Releasing two albums in short order – 2003 and 2005, respectively – they had intended to release a third album to round things off but life took them all in sorts of different directions.



Two decades later that third album, creatively titled, III surfaces on independent label F-Bomb Records, which is realizing it’s own resurrection of sorts, releasing it’s first string of new albums since 2006.

III sees The Squirts deliver ten tracks of bombastic, high energy no-holds-barred power pop nirvana as only they can.

New York metalcore powerhouse Dead Within Days has ignited the scene with the release of their explosive new single “Lost Light”, out now on all streaming platforms. Known for their ferocious energy and unapologetic authenticity, Dead Within Days is making history as the world’s first blind-led metalcore band , delivering heavy music with unmatched heart and purpose.

“Lost Light” was produced, mixed, and mastered by Billy Pfister of Westfall Records , capturing the band’s signature sound with clarity and intensity. The single isn’t just a song — it’s a statement. A roar in the face of adversity. A rallying cry to embrace life’s disarray and keep pushing forward, no matter the odds.



Emerging from the vibrant New York underground, Dead Within Days fuses melodic riffs, blistering vocals, and technical precision with a deeply human message of resilience, accessibility, and inclusivity . Rooted in the nostalgia of 2000s metalcore and shaped by the raw aggression of classic metal and hardcore punk, their sound is both familiar and fiercely fresh. Fans of Bullet For My Valentine, Darkest Hour, and Blessthefall will feel right at home in the storm of sonic chaos Dead Within Days creates.

Dead Within Days is not just another band. They are a movement. A beacon. A band that doesn’t just break boundaries — they obliterate them.

The second full-length album by Monumentum Damnati will be released on May 30. Entitled From Beyond, the album is is pushing the band even further, towards a faster, avant-garde and heavier direction. It consists of 11 tracks in the Victorian gothic horror atmosphere, with lyrics in which you can recognize the creepy characters from the worlds of Lovecraft, Edgar Allan Poe, as well as creepy mythological stories.

Tracks were pre-mixed by Koliopanos Filippos and mixed and mastered in Tidalwave Studio by Patrick Damiani (Carach Angren, Sopor Aeternus, Umbra et Imago, Falkenbach). Cover art and logo made by Olga Kann / Abhoth, who is also a composer for such projects as Withered Land, Bleeding Malice, Life For Ner’Zhul.

Pre-order the album here.



Tracklisting:

“Rats In The Walls”
“The Lurking Fear”
“The Shadow Over Innsmouth”
“The Haunter Of The Dark” (instrumental)
“Beyond The Wall Of Sleep”
“Vulture Eye” (instrumental)
“The Tell-Tale Heart”
“Dead Reflection”
“Saturn’s Obsession”
“The Unnamable” (instrumental)
“The Shadow Out Of Time”

BraveWords Records is excited to announce the signing of Alcatrazz, for a new studio album, their 7th, to be released in 2026. Alcatrazz is also working on another top secret studio project. The new album will build on the obvious strength of their recent three releases – Born Innocent, V, and Take No Prisoners.

Jimmy Waldo of Alcatrazz proposes the band perform at reopening of Alcatraz Prison, “U.S. President Donald Trump has recently made a claim that he wishes to “re-open” the high security prison, the legendary Alcatraz Island. Regardless of anyones thoughts on this, and make of it what you will… we really are the only logical choice… should this re-opening actually happen, we expect the invite from the Donald!. Alcatrazz would be the perfect and only band that should launch the “New Alcatraz Prison” as we have actually all spent time in cells in the joint (check out our video for “Island In The Sun”) climbed the famous prison tower, spent the whole day in every place on the rock… even inside the walls of the cells, where the famous escapes were attempted – so to play at the new opening celebration would be like coming home.”

Members of Alcatrazz talk about signing with BraveWords Records:

Gary Shea: “Alcatrazz looks forward to merging forces with BraveWords Records, benefiting from the very impressive backgrounds of partners Tim Henderson, Michael Brandvold and Brian Adams. With their combined years of experience we will take on the Music Business and the Business of Music together. Let’s Rock!”

Jimmy Waldo: “It’s very exciting to be on BraveWords Records – great people that really get what Alcatrazz is all about, and are excited about taking the band to the next level. The combined background of the BraveWords brand already puts us at the forefront from Rock and Metal press, and the creative and innovative PR skills of Michael Brandvold gives this label an edge like no other… they are a one-stop shop for anything a band like us could ask for.”

Joe Stump: “For multiple decades now BraveWords has always been my source for all things metal, dating back to when I used to buy their print mag at specialty record shops and news stands… I’m thrilled to be working with their label and extremely excited for what’s to come. As for the album: pay attention, we are ready to do some damage”

Giles Lavery: “To be singing for one of my favorite bands, and to also be close friends with these guys is something that might come along once in a lifetime… I now have that three-fold! as a member of Warlord, my recent work with Jack Starr on his new album and now with Alcatrazz! …none of this I take for granted. My partners at BraveWords Records are also dear friends, so we have a great team all the way around. Lets just make a great record!”

About Alcatrazz:

Alcatrazz, formed in 1983 in Los Angeles, has been as well known for the legendary players and singers who have passed throughout the bands ranks as much as they have for their music.

Formed originally by the trio of Jimmy Waldo, Gary Shea (both fresh from late 70’s hitmakers New England and the short lived band Warrior featuring a pre-Kiss Vinnie Vincent) along with vocalist Graham Bonnet (himself with impressive credentials having been a then recent member of Rainbow and the Michael Schenker Group) the band set about completing the line up with drummer Jan Uvena (formerly of Alice Cooper) and a then very young Yngwie Malmsteen, a guitarist who had quickly made a name for himself upon arriving in the USA in the early 80s. The band issued their now classic debut No Parole From Rock N Roll album (1983) which was met with universal critical acclaim. Yngwie was soon to depart in favor of Steve Vai just in time for the bands second album Disturbing The Peace (1985).

The bands mission has always been a not necessarily stable line-up, but of an evolving union of established performers all forming a “supergroup” of sorts, one with perhaps more guitar fire-power than many, but definitely also with the songs to back it up.

Vocalist Doogie White (himself also formerly of Rainbow and Michael Schenker) served a successful two album stint with the band, while the “shred-lord” himself…the acclaimed Joe Stump (also a very established solo artist and a Berklee college professor) has now been the bands longest serving guitarist, with this year now making his 6th continuing year as a member of the band.

Longtime Graham Bonnet and Alcatrazz collaborator, producer, songwriter and vocalist Giles Lavery is now the man behind the microphone, having proved he was an inspired choice on two recent U.S. tours – having worked with the band in numerous other creative capacities since 2017 the band feel it was a logical move, but also one chosen on merit. Giles can be heard on the recent BraveWords Records release, Jack Starr’s Out Of The Darkness Part II as well as his studio and live work with U.S. metal legends Warlord, a band who feature non-other than Mark Zonder on drums… himself a former member of the Graham Bonnet Band, Fates Warning, and worth noting here… as he is also currently leading the band A-Z who feature none other than Alcatrazz main man keyboardist Jimmy Waldo! confused yet? don’t be, as all of this proves that there is a firm but perhaps overlooked consistency and lineage to what on the surface may seem like an ever evolving band personnel.

Indeed Jimmy Waldo continues to be the heart and soul of Alcatrazz… as aside from being the bands talented keyboardist, he has been the one who would, over the bands career find himself at the centre of all band affairs and decision making, from booking the band in the early days, working closely with the bands various record labels, to making sure other members, at the height of 1980s rock n roll decadence were present and accounted for when it came time to get the work done…”i think i even drove the tour bus once or twice back then” says Waldo… in fact it was Jimmy himself who personally selected Steve Vai out of a number of other contenders for the guitarist position in 1984 when Yngwie Malmsteen chose to move on to his own distinguished solo career.. “alot of people have come and gone over the years” says Jimmy… “It’s kept it fresh and we are hardly the only band like that, we still have myself and Gary still holding down the frontline from that early era” Chris Impellitteri historically was one such player in line for the job, who may not have made it into the bands ranks back in 1984, but who in 2020 finally recorded with the band as a special guest on the successful “Born Innocent” album (co-produced by Giles and Jimmy).

Bassist Gary Shea, he who named the band and designed the bands logo no less… came up with the above-mentioned iconic album titles (lets also not forget “Live Sentence”) as noted above, has been flying the Alcatrazz flag with Jimmy for over 4 decades now and is looking forward to this next phase. Gary’s recently published book “No Bass, No Party” is also an essential read for those wanting to delve deeper into the Alcatrazz story!

During an appearance on the "Mark And Me" podcast, Jerry Cantrell spoke about his involvement with the soundtrack to the movie "Sinners", which was released on April 18. The ALICE IN CHAINS guitarist/vocalist contributed a song called "In Moonlight" in collaboration with the film's Oscar-winning composer Ludwig Göransson ("Oppenheimer", "Black Panther"). Cantrell was put in contact with Göransson by METALLICA drummer Lars Ulrich who is credited as a performer on the song "Bury That Guitar" from the film's score.

Jerry said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "It just fell in my lap three weeks ago. My buddy Lars called me up, and he was working with Ludwig Göransson on a score for a movie called 'Sinners'. And he said he and [Academy Award-nominated] director Ryan Coogler were [listening to a lot of] ALICE and stuff while they were kind of working on this movie. And Ludwig had this piece of music which was kind of like the theme of the whole movie — it kind of recurrs throughout the movie — and he wanted me to try to write a song to it. So he pit me in touch with them. That was, like, two and a half, three weeks ago, and I delivered it last week, and it turned out really great. It's a song called 'In Moonlight', and it's gonna be on the soundtrack for 'Sinners' that comes out on the 18th, I think."

Speaking about where he gets the inspiration to continue making new music, Jerry said:  "The drive is still there. And I think that should be apparent from the last couple of years of what I've kind of been doing personally with the creative groups that I've been involved with, including ALICE. Shit's always happening. Opportunities present themselves where they do. I think in this business, for me, you've gotta have patience not to force shit. It's okay to step away once in a while, recharge your batteries, keep creative during that whole period and have a long view. It's not about short sprints; it's about the marathon. You wanna last and try to keep that creative fire alive so that when opportunities present themselves or you create the opportunities for yourself just by being in motion with other talented people, that's enough for me."

He continued: "I did a tour last summer with my friend Gavin Rossdale [of BUSH] on the 'I Want Blood' tour. I went out with them. It was kind like a pre-tour before my [latest solo] album dropped. And we did an interview together. And he said something that really stuck with me. Inevitably, somebody was, like, 'What's your favorite gig? What was your favorite gig ever?' And I'm horrible at shit — [naming] favorites. And he's, like, 'The next one.' And I was, like, 'Fuck, that's fucking perfect, man.' The next one — that's my best gig. The fucking next one. That's a good attitude and a good view, and I relate to that."

The "Sinners" soundtrack also featured ALABAMA SHAKES' Brittany Howard, blues icon Buddy Guy, rapper Rod Wave and R&B artist Raphael Saadiq.

Earlier this month, "Sinners" became the highest domestic-grossing original movie since 2017's "Coco", passing the $200 million mark in the U.S. and Canada.

Written and directed by Coogler, "Sinners" stars Michael B. Jordan in a dual role as twins Smoke and Stack, joined by Oscar nominee Hailee Steinfeld, Jack O'Connell, Wunmi Mosaku, Jayme Lawson, Omar Miller, Miles Caton and Delroy Lindo.

The film is produced by Zinzi Coogler, Sev Ohanian and Ryan Coogler. The executive producers are Ludwig Göransson, Will Greenfield and Rebecca Cho.

Coogler told The Breakfast Club that the grunge genre, pioneered by ALICE IN CHAINS and other Seattle rock bands, was a major influence on "Sinners".

"I started listening to it, bro, and I was, like, 'This shit is like what my uncle used to play': the blues," he said. "I'm listening to it, I'm listening to the guitar riffs and what they're talking about and the passion they're singing with, and I'm, like, 'That's odd.' I dug into the research, man, and that's exactly what it is: it's just blues music sung by white people."

Jerry's latest solo album, the aforementioned "I Want Blood", was recently reimagined as a spoken-word series, featuring video animations by Boy Tillekens. Additional collaborators on the project include Barresi, Greg Puciato (BETTER LOVERS, THE BLACK QUEEN),Roy Mayorga (MINISTRY),Gil Sharone (STOLEN BABIES, TEAM SLEEP),Rani Sharone (STOLEN BABIES),George Adrian (THE MAYBIRDS),composer Vincent Jones, and producer Michael Rozon.

Cantrell's first headlining tour supporting "I Want Blood" kicked off on January 31 in Niagara Falls, with FILTER opening on all dates.

Cantrell's previous solo album, "Brighten", came out in October 2021. The LP was Jerry's first project without ALICE IN CHAINS in 19 years.

Jerry's career outside of ALICE IN CHAINS has consisted of two other solo albums and contributions to major film soundtracks. Cantrell's first solo album, "Boggy Depot", was released in 1998, followed by his second album, "Degradation Trip". In addition to his solo artist work, Jerry has released music on soundtracks for several films, including "Spider-Man", "The Cable Guy", "John Wick 2", "Last Action Hero" and "The Punisher".

ALICE IN CHAINS regrouped in 2006 with singer William DuVall joining the band, and released its third LP with DuVall in the lineup, "Rainier Fog", in August 2018.

Photo credit: Darren Craig

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