In a new interview with Gustavo Maiato, former HIM frontman Ville Valo was asked why he isn't personally active on social media. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "I'm so old school that I still believe in imagination; I believe in stuff that is left for the imagination. Especially in my world of music, I think there's too much info. People let people know too much about them, and all the info is very fragmented, like little tidbits. I'm not interested in telling people once again that I didn't have a breakfast — you know, a picture of an empty table. It's not a way of communicating I feel comfortable with. The record company is communicating through Heartagram, the Facebook and Instagram — and Twitter, I guess, too; I'm not quite sure.

"I've always liked artists that are a bit mysterious, and I like that there's a sense of detachment," he explained. "And that also gives, I think, the people, and me as a listener, that makes my imagination to do more work. And I think that when you really start imagining things and you start building ideas about an artist, that's way more powerful and special and unique than the little info — the constant bombardment of info — on social media."

Ville added: "I understand its power. I do understand the fact that it's so easy for people to communicate, especially if they're far away from each other; it's a great way of doing so. But I just don't feel comfortable. I don't have enough to say. And I think that it easily becomes this game that you start it and you can't stop. And I think that it's better that I keep myself out of it. I don't have any passwords or anything like that for Heartagram. I gave 'em all away. I said, 'I don't wanna know.' 'Cause I don't wanna wake up in the middle of the night and start all of a sudden writing some truth down in all caps. 'Cause that's exactly what I'd probably do."

Valo's debut solo album, "Neon Noir" will arrive on January 13 via Heartagram Records, distributed by UMG/Spinefarm.

Ville has released three singles so far from "Neon Noir": "The Foreverlost", "Echolocate Your Love", and "Loveletting". The latter marked Ville's first new music in over two years, following the release of the three-track "Gothica Fennica Vol. 1" EP, also released under the VV banner, in March 2020.

Like "Echolocate Your Love" and "Loveletting", "Gothica Fennica Vol. 1" bore a strong musical resemblance to HIM and featured the tracks "Salute The Sanguine", "Run Away From The Sun" and "Saturnine Saturnalia".

HIM completed a farewell tour in 2017, closing the final chapter on the band's 26-year career.

Formed in 1991 by Valo, guitarist Mikko "Linde" Lindström and bassist Mikko "Migé" Paananen, HIM offered the world a new take on the metal genre, which became known as "love metal" (also the title of their fourth album).

HIM in 2015 parted ways with its longtime drummer, Mika Kristian Karppinen (a.k.a. Gas Lipstick),and replaced him with Jukka "Kosmo" Kröger (formerly of HERRA YLPPÖ & IHMISET).

Three years ago, Valo teamed up with guitar legend Esa Pulliainen to record an album based on songs by the late, legendary Finnish singer Rauli "Badding" Somerjoki. The self-titled album by VILLE VALO & AGENTS was released in February 2019 and was followed by a short tour.

Photo credit: Juha Mustonen

Loudness frontman Minoru Niihara performed with Japanese drum prodigy Yoyoka Soma at Takutaku in Kyoto, Japan on July 18th. Yoyoka has released a new clip from the show featuring their performance of Bon Jovi's "Livin' On A Prayer'.


Check it out below along with performances of Van Halen's "Dreams", the Loudness classic "Crazy Doctor", and Deep Purple's "Burn".


The band:




Minoru Niihara - vocals 
Satsuma3042 - guitar / backing vocals 
Madooooon - bass
Holy - keys
Yoyoka - drums





 





 


 





 


 





 

Tucson, AZ thrashers Scars Of Atrophy, formerly known in the ‘80s as Atrophy on Roadrunner Records, rebranded their lineup in 2020 and recently unleashed their return to the mosh pit with the new EP Nations Divide in June 2022, 30-plus years after the release of their last full-length 1990's Violent By Nature. 


The band approached this comeback EP as both the entertainers and the audience. They love the thrash metal genre and for them, there is nothing better than watching a huge mosh pit break out while playing on stage. 







Closing the chapter for their breakthrough return that saw them touring the country and sharing the stage with bands such as Exhorder, W.O.R. plus a performance on Dimestock (Watertown, WI), Scars of Atrophy is sharing with fans their latest music video for the "Nations Divide" title track, which features clips from this year's shows and insane mosh pits.





Scars Of Atrophy are currently working on their follow-up record for 2023, the band comments:


"Our yet-to-be-titled forthcoming album still needs tweaking and a hint of flavoring here and there and will be a greater representation of our EP 'Nations Divide". All songs on the EP will be on the album as well. Musically, the songs are all hard-hitting with our signature tempo and riffage. Definitely an aggressive approach with the thunderous double bass of veteran thrash drummer, Tim Kelly. The album will also have new tracks, Purge, Burn the Veil, and A Trophy Kill, which are currently being played live."

Final Depravity's new single "As The Crow Flies" is out now. Check out a lyric video for the song below:





The band states: “Today we celebrate our 15th band anniversary! Celebrate with us and listen to ‘As The Crow Flies’!”







The new single is available on all streaming and download platforms. Produced and mixed by Tobias Barthel / Roadkill Music Production. Mastered by Jens Bogren / Fascination Street Studios.


Lineup:


Benjamin Krzis - Vocals
Dennis "Blaze" Baron - Guitars, Vocals
Oliver Hey - Guitars, Vocals
Matthias Vatter - Bass
Yannick Argast - Drums


(Photo - Kaherdin)

Just in time for the holidays, Fire From The Gods launch their new lyric video for “Rapture (Full Dem)”, via Better Noise Music.


Taken from their highly anticipated full length, Soul Revolution, "Rapture (Fool Dem)" is quintessentially Fire From The Gods, a variety of genres perfectly coexisting together is lead by the versatile voice of singer AJ Channer.


The frontman comments: “I'm praying for better world. I'm praying that people find a way to look each other in the eye and stand as one. Only a fool seeks power and control when we are united. Peace.”







Fire From The Gods have adopted a unifying mission statement, “All Power to All People,” a play on the revolutionary slogan “All Power to the People.” Listeners will hear this statement reflected in Soul Revolution, as the band aims to empower all fans through their music.

On April 27, Savage Existence will present their self-titled album - honest, violent, groovy and still crazy savage!


As a follow-up to their 2021 album Animals, the upcoming album is just what a true metalhead needs. And prior to the album’s release, a single will be issued for the track “Steady Blows To The Head” on January 9. Pre-save the single here.







Formed in Costa Rica by Daniel Cleland (guitars) and Jesse Radford (drums), both entrepreneurs from Canada, and singer and songwriter Anton Darusso. They are joined by Daniel Ramos (bass) and Andreas Castro (guitars).


“Savage Existence revisits old school groove metal with elements of American metal, death metal, and southern rock, with lyrics that speak about real life issues and relevant concerns of the modern day,” is how Cleland describes the group’s sound.


“We made the new self-titled Savage Existence album as a fully collaborative unit, more experienced and better equipped than the first recording. We recorded with Logan Mader for a second time, but accessed the top notch gear in The Hideout, Skeleton Key, and Logan’s personal studios in Las Vegas. There are more vicious guitar solos, more complex overall arrangements to the songs, and generally we feel that this album shows-off just better composition. I really hope people are going to accept and love this record!”


“Logan Mader is of course one of the pioneers of groove metal from the 90s, and he’s produced debut albums for top selling bands like Gojira, Five Finger Death Punch, Devildriver and Cavalera Conspiracy. So having him in our corner has been a great asset.”


And although its release is still on the horizon, Cleland already has a few favorite tracks. “Personally my favorite tracks are ‘Cull,’ ‘Matricide,’ and ‘Enigma.’ I love the brutality and in your face lyrics of ‘Cull.’ I love the heavy melodic riffs of ‘Matricide’ along with the two guitar solos by Gary Holt. And I love the philosophizing lyrics of ‘Enigma,’ along with another Gary Holt solo. However another couple of awesome songs with great choruses and riffs are ‘Leap of Faith’ and ‘Standing in Flames.’”


Lastly, what are Savage Existence’s plans once the album is unleashed? “World domination! We’re doing some touring in South America while we wait for our USA visas to come though, and planning on touring Europe this summer. The whole idea is to support our upcoming releases with at least a year of touring!”


Tracklisting:


"Still Life"
"Steady Blows To The Head"
"Cull"
"Dumpster Water"
"Leap Of Faith"
"All On You"
"Independence Day"
"Enigma"
"Standing In Flames"
"Matricide"


Stay tuned for updates.

Society 1’s new album will be released cinematically with music videos and as the soundtrack to the shock rock movie that Lord Zane and Dagon
are co-directing.





“We’re set to release two new music videos in January and February to accompany the singles we just did with iconic producer Chris Coller (Korn, Whitesnake). With the overwhelming response from our younger fanbase, Dagon and I decided to take a more cinematic approach to our music in 2023.” said lead vocalist Zane




Dagon Destroyer (Society 1 drummer & filmmaker) is partnering with Lord Zane to support the ambitious visual accompaniment of the music.


Dagon describes his perspective on the collaboration, “I see this new music as the soundtrack to a complete visual experience and story. There is just so much noise out there now and just releasing an album is no longer that interesting to me. My goal in working with Lord Zane is to combine our efforts to reach millions of eyes and in 2023 with visual storytelling and reels. We have everything in place to accomplish this.”





Society 1 will be doing a national tour this spring with Static-X, Fear Factory, and Dope in support of the new music while simultaneously filming for shock rock movie.


See some behind the scenes footage below:

Following a seven-year break from the studio, The Winery Dogs - Richie Kotzen, Billy Sheehan and Mike Portnoy - are back in full force with their aptly named third album III, which is set for release on February 3 via the band’s Three Dog Music label (via Burnside Distribution/The Orchard). Following in the footsteps of their first two albums, III was once again self-produced by The Winery Dogs and mixed by longtime band associate Jay Ruston.


The first song to be released from III, “Xanadu”, is now available on digital formats here. Watch a Mike Portnoy drum cam video for "Xanadu" below. This is a split headphone mix: Left - Full Band, Right - Isolated Drums & MP Vox.







The Vicente Cordero-directed video for "Xanadu" can be found below.


Fans wanting to pre-order the album and enter to win a custom Fender Richie Kotzen Telecaster guitar can go here.


While the all-out smokin’ opening track and lead single “Xanadu”, title might evoke different imagery in more progressive-leaning listening circles, Kotzen’s zen-seeking, hard-rocking ruminations on “Xanadu” once again shine a light on the eternal power of good collaboration. “Coming out of the gates, that’s a barnburner,” acknowledges Portnoy. “It’s one of the fiercest tracks on the album.” Incidentally, eagle ears will also delight in picking up on how definitively Portnoy drops his drumsticks right as the song concludes. “At the end there, you’re hearing me toss my sticks — not in frustration, but very much in satisfaction of what we had just done,” he clarifies with a laugh.
 
In addition to the new music, fans will also be excited to hear that the trio is hitting the worldwide concert trail starting February 15 in Greensburg, PA at the Palace Theatre for their 202III World Tour. Ticket and VIP package info can be found on the band’s official website.





III tracklisting:


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


"Xanadu" video:





Check out The Winery Dogs at any of the following tour stops, with more to be announced in the coming weeks.





February
15 - Greensburg, PA - Palace Theatre
16 - Jim Thorpe, PA - Penn’s Peak
17 - Glenside, PA - The Keswick Theatre
18 - Patchogue, NY - Patchogue Theatre
21 - New York, NY - Sony Hall
22 - Baltimore, MD - Rams Head Live!
23 - Sayreville, NJ - Starland Ballroom
25 - Ridgefield, CT - The Ridgefield Playhouse
26 - Derry, NH - Tupelo Music Hall


March
1 - Columbus, OH - King of Clubs
2 - Cleveland, OH - Agora Theatre
5 - Green Bay, WI - Epic Event Center
6 - Minneapolis, MN - Fine Line Music Café
9 - Milwaukee, WI - Pabst Theater
10 - St. Charles, IL - The Arcada Theatre
11 - Westland, MI - The Token Lounge
13 - Grand Rapids, MI - DeVos Hall
14 - Harrison, OH - Blue Note
17 - Dallas, TX - Amplified Live
18 - Cedar Park, TX - The Haute Spot
19 - Houston, TX - Warehouse Live Ballroom
21 - New Orleans, LA - House of Blues
22 - Birmingham, AL - Iron City
24 - St. Petersburg, FL - Jannus Live
25 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Culture Room
26 - Orlando, FL - The Plaza Live
30 - Virginia Beach, VA - Elevation 27
31 - Hopewell, VA - Hopewell Theatre


April
1 - Leesburg, VA - Tally Ho Theatre
2 - Charlotte, NC - The Underground
4 - Ashville, NC - Orange Peel
5 - Knoxville, TN - The Mill & Mine
6 - Nashville, TN - Brooklyn Bowl
27 - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Vivo Rio (with Stone Temple Pilots)
28 - Curitiba, Brazil - Tork n Roll (with Skid Row)
30 - São Paulo, Brazil - Summer Breeze Festival


June
12 - Hamburg, Germany - Markthalle
13 - Zoetermeer, Netherlands - Cultuurpodium Boerderij
15 - Dessel, Belgium - Graspop Metal Meeting
16 - Wolverhampton, United Kingdom - KK's Steel Mill
17 - Nottingham, United Kingdom - Rock City
18 - London, United Kingdom - 02 Shepherds Bush Empire
20 - Cologne, Germany - Die Kantine
21 - Frankfurt Am Main, Germany - Batschkapp
22 - Milan, Italy - Alcatraz
25 - Cartagena, Spain - El Batel Park
27 - Angoulins, France - Crossroad





(Photo - Travis Shinn)

AXS TV has released the new video below, stating: "This week, we are celebrating Motörhead frontman, Lemmy. He was born on December 24, 1945, and died on December 28, 2015. Watch as rock legends like Slash and Lars Ulrich reflect on his life, his lasting impact on rock and metal music, and more on This Week In Music History."





Motörhead, the iconic Godfathers of heavy metal, released their 23rd (and final) studio album Bad Magic in 2015. Instantly hailed as one of the best the beloved trio had recorded in many years, Bad Magic: Seriously Bad Magic enjoys a bonus-packed refresh, adding two previously unreleased tracks from those furious sessions:




“Bullet in Your Brain” and “Greedy Bastards” as well as a snarling, fangs-out live performance from that subsequent tour at the giant Mt Fuji Festival in Japan in 2015. Fans will also get “War, Love, Death And Injustice”, an audio interview with Lemmy conducted by Motörhead expert Robert Kiewik during the tour, and should the desire to have a chat with Lem or anyone beyond this mortal coil arise, the box-set will exclusively contain a Murder One ouija board (complete with the Ace of Spades planchette to spell out the conversation).


A new video for “Bullet In Your Brain”, featuring exclusive, never before seen footage of Motörhead in the studio for the Bad Magic sessions, is available right now. A foot-down, fist-pumping, Lemmy-bass-driven stomper with a deliciously dirty Campbell riff, and Dee-driven dynamics, both the song and footage are a tremendous treat for fans who have craved new Motörmaterial. Watch the video below.


At the time of its release back in 2015, Bad Magic arrived as a massive kick in the teeth for anyone who believed Motörhead were going to amble along into a peaceful little pasture containing fluffy little lambs, folk music and perhaps the odd medieval lute here and there. Big-rig head crushers such as “Thunder & Lightning” and “Teach Them How To Bleed” brought such people to their knees begging for forgiveness, as the album unfurled into their toughest, leanest, meanest and most uncompromising album in aeons. Much of this came down to long-time producer Cameron Webb getting the band to record live at NRG North Hollywood, Maple Studios and Grandmaster in California together for the first time in the Kilmister/Campbell/Dee era, and from the crackling punk energy of “Electricity” to Brian May of Queen’s scintillating guest-appearance on “The Devil”, a vast wealth of aggression, attitude, and excellent songwriting was cultivated in that furious working environment.


Phil Campbell didn’t just record possibly his finest guitars, he threw down most certainly his best solos for decades, while Mikkey Dee’s drumming found new tribal resonance with the Motörhead sound he had helped nurture. There was also one of Lemmy's rawest lyrical life reflections on “Till The End”, and a cover of The Rolling Stones’ “Sympathy For The Devil” which made the song feel like one of their own. One of the hidden gold-dust additions to Bad Magic: Seriously Bad Magic, is Motörhead’s famous, and internationally acclaimed, version of David Bowie’s classic “Heroes”. Originally slated for inclusion on the last release only to be withdrawn at the last minute, it was a cover version which Lemmy had a great affection for, and as such its inclusion here is both fitting and just.


As the title says, this is Motörhead delivering some Seriously Bad Magic.


Bad Magic: Seriously Bad Magic will be released on Double 12” Vinyl, CD Digipak with Bonus Disc, Limited Edition Boxset, Digital Download and Streaming. The Limited Edition Boxset will contain the CD Digipak with Bonus Disc, Double 12” Vinyl, exclusive Lemmy War, Love, Death and Injustice audio interview on 12” vinyl and exclusive edition Motörhead - Murder One Ouija Board and Planchette. Pre-order all formats here.





Bad Magic: Seriously Bad Magic tracklisting:


"Victory Or Die"
"Thunder & Lightning"
"Fire Storm Hotel"
"Shoot Out All Of Your Lights"
"The Devil"
"Electricity"
"Evil Eye"
"Teach Them How To Bleed"
"Till The End"
"Tell Me Who To Kill"
"Choking On Your Screams"
"When The Sky Comes Looking For You"
"Sympathy For The Devil"
"Heroes"
"Bullet In Your Brain"
"Greedy Bastards"


Live at Mt Fuji Rock Festival 2015 - Sayonara Folks! tracklisting:


"We Are Motörhead"
"Damage Case"
"Stay Clean"
"Metropolis"
"Over The Top"
"String Theory"
"The Chase Is Better Than The Catch"
"Rock It"
"Lost Woman Blues"
"Doctor Rock"
"Just ‘Cos You Got The Power"
"Going To Brazil"
"Ace Of Spades"
"Overkill"


"Bullet In Your Brain" video:





Motörhead:


Lemmy Kilmister - Vocals / Bass
Phil Campbell - Guitars
Mikkey Dee - Drums


(Photo courtesy of Adrenaline PR)

CRADLE OF FILTH's collaboration with Ed Sheeran appears to finally be taking shape.

Earlier today, CRADLE OF FILTH frontman Dani Filth shared a photo of him having a meal with Sheeran and producer Scott Atkins, and he included the following caption: "A little over a week ago I was having lunch with the unlikely lads, having just done something fun."

This past August, Dani told Knotfest that the collaboration with Sheeran hadn't yet been completed. "[Ed's] done some of it, but then he had a baby, and then he got obviously sidetracked with that and doing whatever Ed does, which is play massive shows around the globe," Dani said. "He's not at our beck and call. But he is gonna finish it, he assures me. Actually, I spoke to him quite recently."

As for when CRADLE OF FILTH's collaboration with Sheeran might see the light of day, Dani said: "[It will be released] when it's finished. We don't know when it's coming out."

Filth originally broke the news about potentially working with the 31-year-old singer/songwriter, who is one of the most successful musicians on the planet, during an interview with Kerrang! Radio"Breakfast Show" at last year's Bloodstock Open Air festival in the U.K. At the time, Dani said: "I've actually been e-mailing with [Ed]… He actually touched base with me. I've been invited up to his place. Well, he said he could come down to mine, but I pointed out to him that I don't own my own bar or village, and it'd be better if I went there.

"He said he'd do anything," he added. "Quite literally. He said he's a massive fan. He seems like a genuinely very nice guy actually."

Filth went on to say the prospect of collaborating with someone like Sheeran is not as far fetched as one might think. "We've always been like that," he explained. 'If someone tells us not to do something, then we'll do it. That's been our prerogative the whole time. I did this rap song with this band called TWIZTID in America. It's actually turned out more like RAMMSTEIN and BEASTIE BOYS than full-on rap. So, in that respect, I think it the Ed Sheeran collaboration would be great fun. I think it'd be great if we did it for charity, because at least it would bring a bit of credibility to it. Because obviously to his public, it'd be, like, Oh my god, he's got this weird comical guy,' and to my public it'd be, like, 'Oh my god, this is a bit weird, isn't it? But I think that sort of thing nowadays works."

In July 2021, Sheeran floated the possibility of exploring a more extreme musical path while speaking to The Sun. He said: "I was really into death metal as a kid. I listened to CRADLE OF FILTH and SLIPKNOT and all that stuff. I'm not saying I could ever step into that world. I learnt all those riffs on guitar as a kid. That's something I've never thought about doing — but something I would not be opposed to creating."

Sheeran had previously dabbled in a variety of genres, including rock, dance, rap and reggae.

After The Sun published Sheeran's comments, Filth posted a screenshot of an article headlined "Ed Sheeran is open to recording a death metal album after spending his youth listening to CRADLE OF FILTH" and wrote in an accompanying caption, "I'll believe it when I see it. Fellow Suffolk lad could come good in the end. 'Dracula's Castle On The Hill' anyone?"

Sheeran previously admitted to his love of SLIPKNOT in a 2017 interview with Gist. Speaking about the inspiration for his then-brand new album "Divide", Ed said: “I've had the concept for 'Divide' since 2010. I wanted the whole album to feel a bit schizophrenic. My first sort of music that I got into that wasn't from my parents was rap, metal, punk… I went one day listening to 'lowa' [from] SLIPKNOT and the next day listening to Damien Rice's 'O'. It was quite a switch."

As it turns out, SLIPKNOT singer Corey Taylor is also a Sheeran admirer, as he made clear in a 2017 interview with NME. Speaking about Ed's massive commercial success, Corey said at the time: "I'm stoked for people like Ed Sheeran — that kid worked his ass off, so why shouldn't he get the recognition?"

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A post shared by Dani Filth (@danifilthofficial)

MACHINE HEAD played the song "Slaughter The Martyr" live for the first time on December 18 at the Granada Theater in Dallas, Texas. Fan-filmed video of the performance can be seen below. The track is taken from the band's latest album, "Of Kingdom And Crown", which was released in August via Nuclear Blast/Imperium Recordings. The follow-up to 2018's "Catharsis", "Of Kingdom And Crown" includes the three songs that were featured on last year's "Arrows In Words From The Sky" single: "Become The Firestorm", "Rotten" and "Arrows In Words From The Sky". Much of the new MACHINE HEAD album was recorded at Sharkbite Studios in Oakland, California with engineer/producer Zack Ohren.

As previously reported, MACHINE HEAD has recruited HAVOK's Reece Alan Scruggs to play second guitar on the "Electric Happy Hour (Live)" fall 2022 tour. Scruggs is filling in for MACHINE HEAD's Polish guitarist Wacław "Vogg" Kiełtyka, who is unable to make the trek due to his touring commitments with his longtime band DECAPITATED.

Reece made his live debut with MACHINE HEAD on November 3 at Strummer's in Fresno, California at the opening show of the "Electric Happy Hour (Live)" tour.

Vogg joined MACHINE HEAD's touring lineup prior to the launch of the band's "Burn My Eyes" 25th-anniversary tour in late 2019.

Back in November 2019, MACHINE HEAD frontman Robb Flynn said that Vogg's audition for the band "just fucking blew" his "mind — it was so fucking tight and fucking accurate," Robb said. "He sent over [a recording of] 'Imperium' as his first song just as a test. We always had all the dudes do a sound test, just to make sure the levels are good and stuff. I was, like, 'Oh my God! This dude is playing 'Imperium' better than I can right now.' [Laughs] It was crazy. And we ended up talking. Super-nice guy."

In May 2021, Vogg told Finland's Kaaos TV that his addition to MACHINE HEAD's touring lineup was "a big surprise" for him, because he "didn't plan" to play with the band. "It kind of accidentally happened," he said.

In November 2020, MACHINE HEAD released a single, "My Hands Are Empty", via Nuclear Blast. The song marked the first musical collaboration between Flynn and original "Burn My Eyes" guitarist Logan Mader in 24 years.

"My Hands Are Empty" was just one in a line of singles to be released by MACHINE HEAD, which issued "Do Or Die" in October 2019, "Circle The Drain" in February 2020, and the two-song digital single "Civil Unrest", consisting of "Stop The Bleeding" and "Bulletproof", in June 2020. "Stop The Bleeding" featured guest vocals from KILLSWITCH ENGAGE frontman Jesse Leach, and was written and recorded just days after the murders of George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery.

Due to popular demand for tickets this show has been moved from the small inside room at Amplified Live to the Granada...

Posted by Granada Theater on Saturday, December 17, 2022

PANTERA drummer Charlie Benante has shared drum-cam video of the "Walk" performance from the band's December 11 set at Knotfest Chile in Santiago. He captioned the clip: "WALK'ing in #chile @panteraofficial - thanks to @abelvallejo for being the 5th @thebeatles and filming #firebreathing #redflare #respect #walk".

On December 13, Benante shared a few photos of the drum kit that he is using for the PANTERA comeback shows. He posted the pictures on his social media and he included the following message: "Drum post- a lot of people have been asking about the kit for this tour and here it is- it's a @officialtamadrums kit. The tom's and floor tom's gong drum are Star maple shells and the kicks are star bubinga - the snares are my signature snare and a starclassic G-maple. The cymbals are @paistecymbals and as you can see a mix of Rudes and 2002s. Sticks are my signature @vicfirth , heads are @evansdrumheads , @rolandglobal provided the td50x module with their triggers @porter_and_davies thumper and that sums it up."

The reformed PANTERA played its fourth concert without bassist Rex Brown Sunday night (December 18) at Knotfest Brasil at Sambódromo Do Anhembi in São Paulo, Brazil. The Knotfest Brasil gig took place six days after Rex confirmed that a positive COVID-19 test forced him to miss PANTERA's performance at Knotfest Chile. Filling in for him at Knotfest Brasil gig — and other recent shows — was CATTLE DECAPITATION bassist Derek Engemann, who also plays with PANTERA singer Philip Anselmo in both PHILIP H. ANSELMO & THE ILLEGALS and SCOUR.

Joining surviving members Brown and Anselmo in PANTERA's reformed lineup are guitarist Zakk Wylde (OZZY OSBOURNE, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY) and Benante (ANTHRAX).

The new PANTERA lineup made its live debut on December 2 at Mexico's Hell & Heaven Metal Fest and also performed on December 6 at Monterrey Metal Fest in Monterrey, Mexico.

It was first reported in July that Anselmo and Brown would unite with Wylde and Benante for a world tour under the PANTERA banner.

The band will headline a number of major festivals across North America and Europe and stage some of their own headline concerts. They will also support METALLICA on a massive North American stadium tour in 2023 and 2024.

According to Billboard, the lineup has been given a green light by the estates of the band's founders, drummer Vincent "Vinnie Paul" Abbott and guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott, as well as Brown, who last year said Wylde wouldn't tour with PANTERA if a reunion were to happen. It's unclear what changed his mind.

Nightwish vocalist Floor Jansen has shared the following end-of-tour message with her fans:


"Just minutes before the final show of our European tour at the sold out O2 Arena in Prague, I am filled with so many emotions. This tour has been an incredible journey for me, both personally and professionally.


On a personal level, it's been a challenge recovering from surgery and preparing for radiation therapy, but every day has gotten a little better thanks to the energy of performing with Nightwish, love from friends and family, and feeling the power and love from our amazing fans. And on a professional level, it's been an unforgettable experience. From the two sold out shows in Amsterdam where we were joined by Henk Poort for a special performance of 'The Phantom Of The Opera', to the 22 shows we've played across Europe, every moment has been a highlight.




I am so grateful for the opportunity to do what I love, and for the support of our fans, who have been with us every step of the way. Thank you for your undying support." 





Jansen recently announced the release of her debut solo album, Paragon, on March 24.


This album showcases Jansen's impressive vocal range and powerful voice on a diverse collection of pop-infused tracks and emotional ballads influenced by the sounds of her career. Paragon has something for everyone and is a must-listen for fans of Jansen.


Says Floor: "‘Look at me now, I’m already there!' To renew yourself and take leaps into the unknown makes you grow. To age is a gift not everyone gets. I am a fortunate woman who got to make an album I never knew I could make. One that even defines me, where I am on my path. I have reached my PARAGON! I am so proud of this work! And grateful for all the amazing people in this beautiful life that helped me get here!"


With its mix of influences and powerful vocal performances, Paragon is an album that will appeal to fans of pop music and metal alike. It's the perfect addition to any music collection, and a must-have for fans of Floor Jansen and Nightwish.


Paragon will be released digitally and physically on CD, vinyl, and a limited edition deluxe box set. The album will be available on all major streaming platforms and at music retailers worldwide. You can pre-order/pre-save the album here.





Tracklisting:


"My Paragon"
"Daydream"
"Invincible"
"Hope"
"Come Full Circle"
"Storm"
"Me Without You"
"The Calm"
"Armoured Wings"
"Fire"


""Me Without You" video:





"Storm" video:





"Fire" video:





Following the release, Jansen will embark on a tour of The Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria in April and May of 2023. Fans can expect to hear more details and possibly some sneak previews of the album in the coming months.

Last week, Finnish cello rockers APOCALYPTICA released a new song, "Rise Again", featuring a guest appearance by Simone Simons of EPICA on vocals. Accompanied by an artistic and unique music video directed by Lisa Mann, "Rise Again" is a new version of APOCALYPTICA's instrumental track "Rise", taken from the band's most recent album "Cell-0".

A short video in which APOCALYPTICA's Eicca Toppinen explains how the collaboration with Simons came about can be seen below.

When "Rise Again" was first made available, Eicca said in a statement: "It was so great to make 'Rise Again' with Simone Simons! When we were putting the 'Epic Apocalypse' tour together, we were thinking of making this collaboration with EPICA even deeper by releasing a song together. 'Rise' from our 'Cell-0' album had the beauty and feel which we felt could fit perfectly for Simone's unique voice. We are so happy about the song and really excited about this tour with EPICA as it will be something really special and amazing!"

APOCALYPTICA and EPICA's "Epic Apocalypse" tour will kick off on January 23 in Oslo and will conclude on March 29 in Leipzig, Germany. Support on the trek will come from WHEEL.

At this year's Louder Than Life festival, Toppinen told Knotfest about when fans can expect to hear a new full-length album from APOCALYPTICA: "That's very hard to tell, because now we just released this EP ['Metal Classic, Classic Metal', featuring cello-metal reinterpretations of classical bangers]. Probably in December or January — I can't recall the date — there's gonna be the next song; it's a vocal feature. I can't reveal what it is yet. But that's gonna be out then. And there's gonna be other singles released next year. I would guess the next album is not gonna be before '24 — a full album."

He continued: "We are kind of following different paths, because the digital world gives you the possibility that it's not the old-school way that you release an album and then you tour for two or three years and then you make a new album. It's not like that. The modern world requires, in a way, to deliver something new and fresh pretty much constantly. And we have this classical covers world, then we have the original instrument APOCALYPTICA world, and then we have the vocal world of APOCALYPTICA. We have kind of three tracks we are [following]. At the same time when we are working on a new album, we are also working… Because an album is always a little bit more like a concept — it's one type of full structure of an idea — and we don't want to stick only on that. Even [while] we go for this one album structure, we want to keep these both other paths alive at the same time. So that's why it's very hard to say exactly what's gonna happen in which order."

"Metal Classic, Classic Metal" was released in September. The effort includes the focus track "Flight Of The Bumblebees", originally by Nikolai Rimski-Korsakow. "Metal Classic, Classic Metal" also contains a new version of Beethoven's "5th Symphony" as well as a remake of Maurice Ravel's "Bolero".

Eight months ago, Eicca told Mexico's Summa Inferno about his band's plans for a follow-up to 2020's "Cell-0" LP: "We have started to talk about the next possible album. But in the meanwhile, we've been recording individual songs so we could release something constantly…. I would guess we'll start to write for the new album. We've been starting to talk about what it could be, what would be exciting to do for us, but [those discussions have] not [gone] very far yet. Because the mindset is now we're doing the 'Cell-0' tour. And it's not that easy at the same time to get very high inspiration and motivation to write a new album, because writing a new album and recording it is a huge process; it takes a lot of time [and] a lot of energy. So, now we have so much touring that it's not possible to do it now. But I think we [will be] starting on it [soon]."

This past March, APOCALYPTICA released the "I'll Get Through It" single, which was written for the band by American award-winning songwriter Diane Warren. It features Franky Perez — guest vocalist in APOCALYPTICA's 2015 record "Shadowmaker" — as well as Geezer Butler of BLACK SABBATH on bass guitar. The song was born out of a visit Geezer and Franky paid to their friend Diane, who had already written the track "Not Strong Enough" for APOCALYPTICA, included in their 2010 record "7th Symphony".

2015's "Shadowmaker" was APOCALYPTICA's first album to feature just one singer — Perez — instead of guest collaborators. The disc was recorded with Grammy Award-winning producer Nick Raskulinecz (FOO FIGHTERS, DEFTONES, MASTODON).

Prior to enlisting Perez, who accompanied APOCALYPTICA on the band's 2022 North American tour, the group released eight albums that melded the classically trained cello mastery of the three core bandmembers with the harder elements of the rock world, including drums and guest vocalists, such as Gavin Rossdale from BUSH, and Corey Taylor of SLIPKNOT and STONE SOUR fame.

In April 2021, APOCALYPTICA released the official music video for its collaboration with PAPA ROACH singer Jacoby Shaddix on a cover version of the CREAM classic "White Room". The track was produced by Howard Benson at West Valley Recording Studios in Woodland Hills, California and mixed by Chris Lorde-Alge.

"White Room" was the first release from APOCALYPTICA since "Talk To Me", which arrived in August 2020. That song was a collaboration with HALESTORM frontwoman Lzzy Hale.

"Cell-0" came out in January 2020. The effort was the band's first fully instrumental record in 17 years.
Here's a little behind the scenes info about collaborating with @Epica's @SimoneSimons and how the song came together!

Hear it in full here: https://t.co/aBcr2Qiujhpic.twitter.com/rgFbzboDzd

— Apocalyptica (@apocalypticafi) December 22, 2022

British heavy metal legends IRON MAIDEN have released a 10-minute video in which singer Bruce Dickinson takes you behind the scenes of the band's recently completed "Legacy Of The Beast" tour.

The fall 2022 North American leg of "Legacy Of The Beast" ended on October 27 at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida with yet another sold-out U.S. show in front of over 12,000 fans.

A few days after the final gig of the tour, MAIDEN manager Rod Smallwood of Phantom Music Management issued a statement, saying: "On behalf of the band, myself and all at Phantom, we'd like to say a huge thank you to everyone who made this 'Legacy' tour such a special and memorable experience. First and most importantly you, the fans, especially those affected by problems caused by the global pandemic which led to the 2020 European stadium shows having to be rescheduled not just once but twice! Your patience and good-will in holding on to your tickets and waiting until we could finally bring the 'Legacy' show to you was very much appreciated. You truly are the best and playing to over 3 million of you over the extended tour was a hell of an achievement so thanks to each and every one of you for making this both possible and also making it incredible fun for the band who enjoyed pretty much every minute on stage.

"We'd also like to thank our brilliant touring Killer Krew — both the longstanding and newer members to the MAIDEN family, who never cease to rise to any challenges thrown their way — and there were a few — no mean feat considering this tour covered 33 countries and 139 shows played since we started in Tallinn way back on May 26 2018.

"Thanks also to all our Special Guests and support acts who played on the tour since 2018: AIRBOURNE, AVATAR, FOZZY, GOJIRA, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE, LORD OF THE LOST, MASTODON, POWERWOLF, RAGE IN MY EYES, RHAPSODY OF FIRE, SABATON, SERPENTOR, SHINEDOWN, TEMPT, THE HELLACOPTERS, THE RAVEN AGE, TREMONTI, TRIVIUM and WITHIN TEMPTATION. Thanks also to our suppliers, our agents, promoters, merchandisers and everyone else involved in bringing this show to you night after night, city after city.

"And finally, both personally and, I am sure, on behalf of all of you — massive thanks to Bruce, Steve, Dave, Adrian, Janick and Nicko who never let up, played, and sang! magnificently and matched every crowd for passion and enthusiasm every single night, wherever they were. Guys — I don't know how you do it but we are all bloody glad you do!!

"We are all now going to take a well-earned break and we'll be back again next year with a great new show, 'The Future Past Tour' playing just Europe this time as the 2022 'Legacy' tour was such a long run to enable us to see as many of you fans as possible post-pandemic. However, 'The Future Past Tour' will continue into 2024 and who knows where it will go… ..so stay tuned!!"

IRON MAIDEN's "The Future Past Tour" will feature previously unperformed songs from the band's most recent studio album, "Senjutsu", along with a focus on 1986's iconic "Somewhere In Time" record, plus other classic cuts.

"Senjutsu" came out in September 2021. It marked MAIDEN's second consecutive double album behind 2015's "The Book Of Souls" which is the longest MAIDEN album, with a running time of 92 minutes.

IRON MAIDEN's first album in six years, "Senjutsu" was recorded in 2019 in Paris with longstanding producer Kevin Shirley and co-produced by bassist Steve Harris. It features three tracks whose running time exceeds 10 minutes each.

For "Senjutsu" — loosely translated as "tactics and strategy" — the band once again enlisted the services of Mark Wilkinson to create the spectacular Samurai-themed cover artwork, based on an idea by Harris.

"Senjutsu" bowed at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart, charting higher than even the band's early classics like "Powerslave" and "The Number Of The Beast". Nearly 90 percent of the LP's 64,000 equivalent album units earned came from pure album sales. The critically acclaimed double album debuted one place higher than 2015's "The Book Of Souls" and 2010's "The Final Frontier", which both peaked at No. 4.

"Senjutsu" was MAIDEN's 13th album to top in the Top 40 in the U.S.

LOVEBITES, the all-female heavy metal band from Tokyo, Japan, has returned from its hiatus with a new member, a new music video and news of a fourth studio album coming in February 2023. The LP is also available to preorder today from JPU Records, and is available physically in three editions.

"Judgement Day", the fittingly titled album, will be the first to feature the band's new lineup, which includes bassist Fami, who was selected after an audition process and is just 20 years of age. The fast, melodic and heavy metal sound that LOVEBITES has excelled at since its debut is still burning strong, but has been sublimated further. Newcomer Fami also brings an added charm to the quintet, including her signature slap technique. The album contains ten completely new songs, mixed and mastered by Finnish masterminds Mikko Karmila and Mika Jussila, who have worked on all of the band's studio albums.

Fans can get a taste of the new LOVEBITES today with the release of the digital single and music video to the album's title track, available to download, stream and watch now.

The cover art for the album features a wolf, an incarnation of the band that has appeared on all of LOVEBITES's previous albums. This time, as the title suggests ("Judgement Day"),the wolf clutches scales that weigh good and evil within its jaws, and is captured sprinting between the sun and the moon. Further meaning from the cover art can be discovered in the title track's music video, and further details will likely be revealed in the future too.

"Judgement Day" will be released digitally worldwide on February 22, 2023, and released on CD from JPU Records from February 24, 2023. A video-on-demand and CD bundle is also available directly from JPU Records' web site. It features a documentary of the bassist auditions which includes interviews with the members of the band, as well as Fami while she was still one of the finalists — all with English subtitles. It also includes four studio sessions; "The Hammer Of Wrath", "Golden Destination" and "Shadowmaker" from the audition finals, and "Bravehearted", the first session with Fami as an official member of LOVEBITES. There is also a third edition that includes the CD, the video on demand content and a "Judgement Day" t-shirt. Additionally, 50 orders of this latter bundle will randomly receive a sleeve case that has been signed by the members of the band.

"Judgement Day" track listing:

01. We Are The Resurrection
02. Judgement Day
03. The Spirit Lives On
04. Wicked Witch
05. Stand And Deliver (Shoot 'Em Down)
06. Victim Of Time
07. My Orion
08. Lost In The Garden
09. Dissonance
10. Soldier Stands Solitarily

LOVEBITES formed in 2016 with vocalist Asami, guitarists Midori and Miyako, bassist Miho and drummer Haruna. The band's EP "The Lovebites" EP was mixed by Mikko Karmila and mastered by Mika Jussila, a team of talented Finnish engineers known for their work with NIGHTWISH, CHILDREN OF BODOM and AMORPHIS. In May 2017 LOVEBITES made their debut and released "The Lovebites" EP through London's JPU Records, followed by full length album "Awakening From Abyss" in October 2017 and had a series of shows in Japan and the U.K.

In 2018 LOVEBITES made their first festival appearance at Vans Warped Tour Japan 2018, as well as a headline show in June for mini album "Battle Against Damnation". In July they participated in Headstrong Fes.18 organized by ANTHEM, followed by performing at the world's biggest metal festival Wacken Open Air in Germany and Bloodstock Open Air in the U.K. They also toured Europe with X-ray Touring. After returning to Japan, LOVEBITES completed their second album "Clockwork Immortality" by the end of the year, and performed at Metal Mania, which also featured LOUDNESS.

LOVEBITES began 2019 by touring Japan, followed by supporting ARCH ENEMY on tour in China. First live album "Daughters Of The Dawn: Live In Tokyo 2019" was released in July, recorded at Mynabi Blitz Akasaka in Tokyo in support of "Clockwork Immortality". The same month the band toured festivals, including Download Festival in the U.K., Graspop Metal Meeting in Belgium, and Download Festival Madrid in Spain. At Download Festival in the U.K., Asami joined HALESTORM on stage to sing "Love Bites (And So Do I)", the song that gave LOVEBITES their name. When the band returned to Japan they toured Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka before appearing at Summer Sonic 2019. They then joined DRAGONFORCE for their U.K. tour in November as special guests.

In January 2020, the band released third album "Electric Pentagram". It became the band's first album to enter Japan's Oricon Top 10 rankings, peaking at number nine. The band then kicked off tour of Japan in February and released "Five Of A Kind: Live In Tokyo 2020" in July, recorded at Zepp DiverCity, which reached number one in the Oricon Music Blu-ray chart.

In March 2021 they released mini album "Glory, Glory, To The World", which reached No. 10 in the Billboard general chart. Immediately afterwards the band began the "Ride For Vengeance" tour 2021, touring four cities across Japan. In August Miho left the band and it was announced that LOVEBITES would take a break. In the meantime, "Heavy Metal Never Dies – Live In Tokyo 2021" was released in the U.K. as a CD and video on-demand release, featuring the Tokyo show from the "Ride For Vengeance" tour 2021, followed by best album "In The Beginning: The Best Of 2017-2021".

In April 2022, the band held an audition for all nationalities, ages, and genders worldwide to find a new bassist. After a long selection process, fami joined in October of the same year, leading to LOVEBITES once again being composed of five members.

Japanese supergroup THE LAST ROCKSTARS has released its debut single, "The Last Rockstars (Paris Mix)". The track was made available via the quartet's global distribution deal with Ingrooves, which is part of Universal Music Group's Virgin Music Group.

THE LAST ROCKSTARS — which consists of Yoshiki, Hyde, Sugizo and Miyavi, four major forces from Japan's rock scene — will unleash their debut live performances on January 26 and January 27 at Ariake Arena and January 29 and January 30 at Tokyo Garden Theatre. U.S. shows will take place on February 4 at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York and February 10 at Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles.

Two song teaser videos have been released, one for "The Last Rockstars" (lyrics by Yoshiki, composed by Yoshiki) and the other for "Psycho Love" (lyrics by Yoshiki/Hyde, composed by Hyde).

"We've come together to start this challenge for the world out of Japan," Yoshiki said.

"This may be our last chance at this challenge," Sugizo said. "We want to put what's left of our lives on the line to make the world rock with our music."

Yoshiki has several monumental accomplishments under his belt both as the leader of X JAPAN and as an accomplished solo artist. He has been named "one of the most influential musicians and composers in Japanese history" by Consequence Of Sound and has composed Hollywood film soundtracks, a concerto for the Emperor of Japan, and the official theme song for the Golden Globe Awards. He has performed at the world's greatest stages, including Madison Square Garden, Wembley Arena, Coachella music festival, and Carnegie Hall. In addition to his music, Yoshiki has been internationally recognized for his philanthropy, and was awarded a Medal Of Honor by the Japanese government.

Hyde is internationally recognized as the vocalist for L'ARC-EN-CIEL, VAMPS and as a successful solo artist. L'ARC-EN-CIEL has sold over 40 million albums worldwide, headlined Madison Square Garden, and were also the first rock band to headline Japan National Stadium. Hyde has also had great success touring internationally as a solo artist.

Sugizo has worked and performed globally as a member of LUNA SEA, X JAPAN, and U.K.'s JUNO REACTOR, a group credited with creating psychedelic trance. As a solo artist he has been pursuing his unique style of electronic music while creating for multiple movie and theater soundtracks.

Miyavi "The Samurai Guitarist" has enthralled the world with his transcendent unconventional "slap style" of playing his guitar, which has taken him around the world nine times to tour in over 30 countries. In 2014 he made his debut as a Hollywood actor in "Unbroken". He was the first Japanese public figure to be featured in Gucci's global campaign, and has been appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNCHR, providing support for refugees.

With their illustrious experience in Japan's most influential rock bands, remarkable sales records individually, and hit collaborations with global artists, these four musicians coming together is a monumental occurrence. THE LAST ROCKSTARS are here to usher in a new legendary era of rock.

Upcoming shows:

January 26 - Ariake Arena, Tokyo, Japan
January 27 - Ariake Arena, Tokyo, Japan
January 29 - Tokyo Garden Theater, Tokyo, Japan
January 30 - Tokyo Garden Theater, Tokyo, Japan
February 04 - Hammerstein Ballroom, New York, United States
February 10 - Hollywood Palladium, Los Angeles, United States

Three Celtic Frost classics will be reissued on vinyl on February 3. Fans that pre-order Morbid Tales Red 2LP, To Mega Therion Silver 2LP, and Into The Pandemonium Gold 2LP will receive a free limited edition Celtic Frost collectable heptagram USB drive containing mp3s of the expanded editions of all three albums. Pre-order here.





It almost seems churlish to regard Celtic Frost as one of the great extreme metal bands, because they were so much more than that. It’s better to hail them as among the finest extreme and experimental bands of the 1980s. Refusing ever to do what was expected or demanded, the band constantly changed musical direction, always brought in surprising influences, and kept people guessing as to where they might venture next. Their catalogue of albums is formidable and unmatched. Each is not only unique, but part of an entire tapestry that only now can be appreciated for being a remarkable part of music history. Despite, or maybe because of, constant turmoil on so many fronts, Celtic Frost achieved an artistic level few others would even have dared to dream of aspiring towards. They climbed high because they were never afraid to fall. Which is why the band are now rightly regarded as icons, and iconoclasts.




Released in 1987, only now can people understand just how far ahead of its time this album was. Not only did it have maniacal rhythms, but introduced electronica into extreme metal. On every level, it was a remarkable record, full of visionary ideas and ideals. This release includes alternate versions of tracks from the album and a cover of Dean Martin! The concept and art direction of the release was done by the man behind Celtic Frost, Tom G. Warrior.


Tracklisting:


"Mexican Radio"
"Mesmerized"
"Inner Sanctum"
"Tristesses de la Lune"
"Babylon Fell (Jade Serpent)"
"Caress Into Oblivion (Jade Serpent II)"
"One In Their Pride" (Porthole Mix)
"I Won't Dance (The Elders' Orient)"
"Rex Irae (Requiem)"
"Oriental Masquerade"
"Sorrows of the Moon"
"The Inevitable Factor"
"In The Chapel, In The Moonlight"
"One In Their Pride" (Re-Entry Mix)
"The Inevitable Factor" (Alternate Vox)


It almost seems churlish to regard Celtic Frost as one of the great extreme metal bands, because they were so much more than that. It’s better to hail them as among the finest extreme and experimental bands of the 1980s. Refusing ever to do what was expected or demanded, the band constantly changed musical direction, always brought in surprising influences, and kept people guessing as to where they might venture next. Their catalogue of albums is formidable and unmatched. Each is not only unique, but part of an entire tapestry that only now can be appreciated for being a remarkable part of music history. Despite, or maybe because of, constant turmoil on so many fronts, Celtic Frost achieved an artistic level few others would even have dared to dream of aspiring towards. They climbed high because they were never afraid to fall. Which is why the band are now rightly regarded as icons, and iconoclasts.


Released in 1985, the band’s second album had an ominous pall of doom and gloom, enmeshed in a sound both primitive yet also Wagnerian in its vast scope. Many claim this was a massive inspiration for black metal bands later in the decade. In truth, though, none matched what was here. This release includes the ‘Emperor’s Return’ EP as well as a remix of Visual Aggression, and the concept and art direction of the release was done by the man behind Celtic Frost, Tom G. Warrior.


Tracklisting:


"Innocence and Wrath"
"The Usurper"
"Jewel Throne"
"Dawn of Meggido"
"Eternal Summer"
"Circle of the Tyrants"
"(Beyond the) North Winds"
"Fainted Eyes"
"Tears In a Prophet's Dream"
"Necromantical Screams"
"Circle of the Tyrants"
"Visual Aggression"
"Suicidal Winds"
"Journey Into Fear"
"Visual Aggression"
"Return to the Eve"


It almost seems churlish to regard Celtic Frost as one of the great extreme metal bands, because they were so much more than that. It’s better to hail them as among the finest extreme and experimental bands of the 1980s. Refusing ever to do what was expected or demanded, the band constantly changed musical direction, always brought in surprising influences, and kept people guessing as to where they might venture next. Their catalogue of albums is formidable and unmatched. Each is not only unique, but part of an entire tapestry that only now can be appreciated for being a remarkable part of music history. Despite, or maybe because of, constant turmoil on so many fronts, Celtic Frost achieved an artistic level few others would even have dared to dream of aspiring towards. They climbed high because they were never afraid to fall. Which is why the band are now rightly regarded as icons, and iconoclasts.


The debut album from the band was released in 1984, and was quickly recognised as the work of agitated and agitating talents. This album was a huge influence on the burgeoning death and thrash scenes at the time. A masterclass of riff tirades and unholy sentiments. This reissue includes rehearsals from 1984 and the concept and art direction of the release was done by the man behind Celtic Frost, Tom G. Warrior.


Tracklisting:


"Human" (Intro)
"Into the Crypts of Rays"
"Visions of Mortality"
"Dethroned Emperor"
"Morbid Tales"
"Procreation (Of the Wicked)"
"Return to the Eve"
"Danse Macabre"
"Nocturnal Fear"
"Morbid Tales" (1984 Rehearsal)
"Messiah" (1984 Rehearsal)
"Procreation (Of the Wicked)" (1984 Rehearsal)
"Nocturnal Fear" (1984 Rehearsal)


(Photo - Sergio Archetti)

Diabolical black/death metal squadron, Belphegor, performed the track "Virtus Asinaria - Prayer" - from their new album The Devils - during their set at the 2022 edition of Bloodstock Open Air festival. Watch professionally-filmed footage below:





With The Devils, Belphegor unleash their twelfth studio album upon the masses, which proves to be one of the strongest and most elaborate records in the group’s career. Mixed & mastered at renowned Fascination Street Studios by Jens Bogren (Kreator, Rotting Christ, At The Gates), The Devils sounds absolutely crushing and dynamic, sonically pushing the immense variety of the eight tracks to new heights.




Order/save The Devils here.





Tracklisting:


“The Devils”
“Totentanz – Dance Macabre”
“Glorifizierung des Teufels”
“Damnation – Höllensturz”
“Virtus Asinaria – Prayer”
“Kingdom Of Cold Flesh”
“Ritus Incendium Diabolus”
“Creature Of Fire”
“Blackest Sabbath 1997” (re-recorded medley of “Blackest Ecstasy” and “Blutsabbath” from 1997’s Blutsabbath album)


"The Devils" video:





“Virtus Asinaria – Prayer” video:





“Totentanz – Dance Macabre” lyric video:

Twenty-seven years into a career that continues to grow, Swedish metal band, Narnia, take huge steps into an exciting chapter with the new album, Ghost Town. The seasoned five-some once again shows how to shape a masterpiece with this melodic metal future classic.


On the ninth studio album, Ghost Town, Narnia has picked the icing on the cake from its vast catalog. You can’t simply label this album a neoclassic metal album or a power metal album, even though these elements are present. There are also parts that are progressive, modern, heavy, or just creatively different. But you can summarize by saying this is well-crafted piece of classic and melodic metal.


Co-founder, guitarist, and producer CJ Grimmark is the crucial architect of the band's sound, and also its primary songwriter along with co-founder and lead singer Christian Liljegren and bassist Jonatan ”Jono” Samuelsson. Through well formulated lyrics and melodies created to enhance the music, the songwriting team has explored new modes of expression that are well represented in songs such as "Thief", with its dramatic arrangement, anxiety-laden, expressive imagery, and the progressive "Modern Day Pharisees", a song dealing with the subject of hypocrisy.




The title track, "Ghost Town", was first introduced to the cheering live-audience at Sweden Rock Festival 2022 and is now an obvious part of the set list with its bombastic four on the floor-pulse and sing along chorus. The heartbeat of Narnia, Andreas "Habo" Johansson, does a tremendous job behind the drums, and spares no energy.


Martin Härenstam and his keyboards have been given a large but tasteful space on the record, and range in sound from vintage synths to grand piano.


The record's neoclassical gem, "Rebel", with a nod to the band’s earliest influences, should appeal to longtime fans. But also, more immediate songs like the soon-to-be crowd pleasers "Hold On", "Wake Up Call", and "Alive". "Descension", on the other hand, is more progressive, but there is a constant and clear common thread throughout the entire production that ties it together brilliantly.


"Out Of The Silence" picks up where 2019's "The War That Tore the Land" left off as the album's only ballad. Featured by Saviour Machine’s frontman Eric Clayton, who reads the Lord’s prayer with his deep baritone operatic voice. 


"Glory Daze" is perhaps the album's heaviest song, which also addresses one of today's biggest problems: Stress and chasing the wind. Something that Liljegren himself experienced during a burnout.


"Different songs will appeal to different people lyrically, but we cover a variety of topics throughout the album, and I’m sure people will be able to relate to them, both musically and spiritually. Some of these songs stand out a bit from our previous repertoire, but without abandoning our historical influences," Liljegren explains and continues,


This is an album with a positive message combined with bombastic music. You can't have one without the other when it comes to Narnia."


Lyrics that make you reflect combined with the broad musical breadth the band possesses, along with a solid production, is Narnia’s musical trademark which runs throughout the entire album. If the latest studio album From Darkness To Light from 2019 marked the way, Ghost Town is a more than worthy sequel with a life of its own.


Ghost Town is produced by CJ Grimmark, mixed by the band"s sound engineer Viktor Stenquist, and mastered by Thomas Piec Johansson. It will be available on all digital platforms, CD, and vinyl on March 10, in collaboration with Sound Pollution Distribution.


Pre-save / pre-order Ghost Town here.





Tracklisting:


"Rebel"
"Thief"
"Hold On"
"Glory Daze"
"Descension"
"Ghost Town"
"Alive"
"Modern Day Pharisees"
"Out Of The Silence"
"Wake Up Call"


Lineup:


Christian Liljegren: Vocals
CJ Grimmark: Guitars, backing vocals
Jonatan Samuelsson: Bass, backing vocals
Martin Härenstam: Keyboards
Andreas “Habo” Johansson: Drums


(Photo - Mats Vassfjord)

DREAM THEATER singer James LaBrie spoke to Pete Pardo of Sea Of Tranquility about the band's plans for 2023. He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "We leave on the 11th of January, and we fly to Tel Aviv. And our first two shows are in Tel Aviv — on the 13th and 14th. And then we fly to Spain and then continue from there — [we play in] Spain and [do shows] throughout Europe. I think our last show is February 21st in London… And then the plan is that we're supposed to do something in the spring throughout North America. And then we'll finally get over to Asia, because we haven't been there… That was supposed to be our next leg when we finished in Glasgow in February 2020, just before the pandemic. We were supposed to be in Asia in April [2020]. That never happened. So we have to get to Asia, go through Asia. And then I think that's it. I think we're winding down this tour. And then we'll take a bit of a break, and then start working on another album."

Regarding when fans can expect the follow-up to 2021's "A View From The Top Of The World", LaBrie said: "If I'm seeing the timeline the way that it usually unfolds, I can't see us going into the studio until the beginning of '24. I don't think it would make sense to be in there before then. But don't quote me on that. Some things always change.

"So that's the plan of action at this point," he continued. "We're all looking forward to it. It's just great to be out there and be with our fans and just do what we love to do."

Two months ago, DREAM THEATER guitarist John Petrucci told SiriusXM's "Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk" that he couldn't see him and his bandmates returning to the studio until the end of 2023. "If you kind of just look forward to next year, you see the way it's gonna lay out, and we've got festivals. Before you know it, it's August," he explained. "There's not gonna be any studio work done before the fall; I highly doubt it. So a new record wouldn't be [released before] the following year."

"The Alien", a track from "A View From The Top Of The World", landed DREAM THEATER its first-ever Grammy in the "Best Metal Performance" category at the 64th annual Grammy Awards, which was held in April in Las Vegas. DREAM THEATER's previous Grammy nominations were for the song "On The Backs Of Angels", from 2011's "A Dramatic Turn Of Events" album, and the single "The Enemy Inside" from 2013's "Dream Theater".

"A View From The Top Of The World" was described in a press released as "DREAM THEATER at its musical finest, expanding on the sound they helped create while maintaining the elements that have garnered them devoted fans around the globe." The seven-song album also marked the second studio album with InsideOut Music/Sony Music. The artwork was created by longtime cover collaborator Hugh Syme (RUSH, IRON MAIDEN, STONE SOUR). "A View From The Top Of The World" was produced by Petrucci, engineered and additional production by James "Jimmy T" Meslin and mixed/mastered by Andy Sneap.

PUDDLE OF MUDD frontman Wes Scantlin has reflected on his band's cover version of NIRVANA's "About A Girl", saying that "it looked and sounded like total shit."

Although PUDDLE OF MUDD's acoustic performance at the SiriusXM studios had been online since January 2020, it only blew up on YouTube three months later, with detractors blasting Scantlin's off-key take on the iconic 1989 song.

Asked in a new interview with Songfacts what his thoughts are on his band's "About A Girl" cover, Scantlin said: "Oh, yeah. You know what? I was acclimating and it was a tiring day, and I had already performed five or six songs at one time, and by the time I got to that one — which I shouldn't even have done because I cannot nail that song — I was a little tired. It looked and sounded like total shit. But live to fight another day, dude."

In April 2020, Scantlin posted a message on social media in an apparent response to negative Internet chatter over who PUDDLE OF MUDD's rendition of "About A Girl", calling the critics "toxic."

"Rise above others who try and take you down… I'm at my BEST NOW… and that's all that matters," he wrote. "I pray for all of you because we care. Jealousy is toxic, and toxic people are a waste of time. We walk away with nothing but a SMILE"

As of this writing, PUDDLE OF MUDD's version of "About A Girl" has surpassed 1.7 million views on YouTube with just around 4,700 likes.

Wes had almost non-stop problems with the law, alcohol, finances and other issues, before claiming to have gotten sober in 2017. Scantlin said that he ended up going back to rehab and receiving treatment "because there's really nowhere else to go." He also credited his family and fans for giving him the strength to try to get better.

PUDDLE OF MUDD was formed in 1991 in Kansas City by Scantlin, the only original member still with the band. The group into the mainstream with 2001's "Come Clean", which yielded three hits — "Control", "Blurry" and "She Hates Me".

PUDDLE OF MUDD's latest album, "Welcome To Galvania", was released in 2019 via Pavement Entertainment.