Canadian metal innovators VOIVOD were joined by their former bassist Jason Newsted during their May 16 performance at Revolution Live in Fort Lauderdale, Florida for two songs: "Rebel Robot" and "Voivod". Fan-filmed video footage of his appearance can be seen below (courtesy of Sonic Perspectives).

Newsted previously joined VOIVOD on stage in June 2013 at Hellfest in Clisson, France and in June 2016 at Slim's in San Francisco, California.

Newsted joined VOIVOD in 2002 and served as producer for the metal legends' self-titled album in 2003 on the Chophouse Records label (in association with Surfdog Records).

Longtime friends and pioneers of metal music, Newsted and VOIVOD vocalist Snake (a.k.a. Denis Belanger),guitarist Piggy (a.k.a. Denis D'Amour) and drummer Away (a.k.a. Michel Langevin) first began working together at Newsted's Chophouse studio in 1995, intent on keeping the music alive between busy touring schedules. However, with Newsted's departure from METALLICA in January 2001, he was free to join VOIVOD as a full-fledged member and would remain involved with the group until 2008.

Jason recently announced plans to reactivate his NEWSTED project for a May 20 concert at Revolution Live in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Newsted, who plays bass and sings in the project, will be joined at the gig by original NEWSTED members Jesus Mendez Jr. (UNDERLORD) on drums and Jessie Farnsworth (UNDERLORD) on guitar, along with new guitarist Humberto Perez.

According to Newsted, the setlist for the Revolution Live concert will consist mostly of newer songs that NEWSTED fans have not heard before. Describing the material as "quite punk," he explained to the "Let There Be Talk" podcast: "I put together this kind of MOTÖRHEAD-flavored thing about a year and a half ago and wrote these MOTÖRHEAD-flavored songs on bass as the first instrument. I took the main three Philthy Animal drum beats and just picked that one and make a song and pick that one and make a song, and go around a couple of times and write that many songs. So I wrote some fun songs. And now we mix those in with 'Soldierhead' and 'Heroic Dose' and the ones from the videos that people know, but mostly playing new songs. And they are way less complex — way less complex than FLOTSAM [AND JETSAM], METALLICA or even the [early stuff from] the NEWSTED band or ECHOBRAIN certainly. Just real punk rock, straight ahead like MOTÖRHEAD — a lot of fast stuff, a lot of double bass. Most of them are pretty quick. It's just fun, though — fun as fuck."

Back in February 2014, Newsted canceled an appearance at Australia's Soundwave festival with NEWSTED, citing "private and personal circumstances." The cancelation followed more than a year of intense touring and promotional activity surrounding the release of NEWSTED's "Metal" EP and follow-up album, "Heavy Metal Music", both of which were positively received by the critics and fans alike.

STAIND guitarist Mike Mushok, who joined NEWSTED in March 2013 and played on "Heavy Metal Music", told "The Jasta Show" in a 2019 interview that Jason ultimately pulled the plug on the band because it wasn't financially viable for him to continue playing.

"Heavy Metal Music" sold nearly 8,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 40 on The Billboard 200 chart. The CD was made available in August 2013 in North America via Chophouse Records/Collective Sounds and in Europe through Spinefarm Records.

Jason left METALLICA back in 2001 but was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, along with guitarist/vocalist James Hetfield, drummer Lars Ulrich, guitarist Kirk Hammett, and the man who replaced him, bassist Robert Trujillo, in 2009.

Florida death metallers, Inhuman Condition, have revealed details for their new EP, entitled Panic Prayer. This marks the group’s third release since their formation in early 2021.


Set for a July 21 release via Listenable Insanity Records, Panic Prayer features three new original compositions, four live songs, and a smashing cover of the Blue Öyster Cultclassic hit “Godzilla”. With members of Obituary, Deicide, and Venom Inc., the trio is no stranger to extreme music, blending a mix of groovy death metal and thrash, with a pinch of hardcore.


The group have once again enlisted the help of art-extraordinaire Dan “Babe Ruth” Goldsworthy (Cradle Of Filth, Accept, Hakan, Alestorm) for the cover art for the EP. Goldsworthy’s third album cover for the band features the bands “unofficial mascot”, sometimes referred to as “the Rat God”, who was on the group’s 2021 debut Rat°God, as well as 2022’s follow-up album, Fearsick.




Jeramie Kling says: “When you are face to face with the crushing weight of darkness, what will you reach for? Your wits? Your talisman given to you by an old family member? Or will you embrace the end? This thought will run through everyone’s mind. How you handle that moment is individualistic at best. Believe me, it’s coming. Let’s see your panic prayer.”


The production for the album was done at Smoke & Mirrors Productions in Spring Hill, Florida, with Jeramie Kling and Taylor Nordberg mixing and mastering respectively. The live songs were recorded on their 2022 summer US tour with Deicide.


Panic Prayer will be available on CD, vinyl, cassette tape, as well as a unique box set. Pre-orders for the album, as well as the first single/video will be released June 2 at inhumancondition.bandcamp.com.





Panic Prayer tracklisting:


"Civilized Holocaust"
"Final Credits"
"Panic Prayer"
"Godzilla"
"The Mold Testament" (live)
"Recycled Hate" (live)
"Euphoriphobia" (live)
"The Neck Step" (live)


Inhuman Condition is:


Jeramie Kling - Vocals/Drums
Terry Butler - Bass
Taylor Nordberg - Guitar

Super7 announces the upcoming Ghost Ultimates! Papa Emeritus III Figure with the following message...


Hard rock's most mysterious band returns with Super7! Papa Emeritus III was the third leader of Ghost during the Meliora album and Popestar EP eras, during which time he took Ghost’s agenda to more glorious heights. Super7 is excited to take your collection to new heights with the Ghost Ultimates! Papa Emeritus III Figure!







Loaded with accessories, this 7” scale, highly articulated figure comes with an alternate mitre head, a plethora of interchangeable hands, a soft goods vestment robe, and more.





Papa Emeritus III achievements are the greatest the band has seen to date- let your greatest achievement be adding this made-to-order Ghost Ultimates! Papa Emeritus III Figure to your collection!


Pre-Order Ghost Ultimates! Wave 3, here.


Pre-orders close Friday, June 16 at 6 PM. The new figure is estimated to ship in February 2024.

Funko, the world’s leading pop culture consumer products brand and creators of the wildly popular Pop! Vinyl collection, has announced the upcoming release of the new Ozzy Osbourne Pop! figure.


Description: Set the stage for the Prince Of Darkness in your music lineup with English singer and songwriter, Pop! Ozzy Osbourne! Who will this Funko exclusive Pop! performer collaborate with next in your Pop! Rocks collection? Or will you crush the air guitar solo while performing together? Vinyl figure is approximately 4.4-inches tall.


Further details are on the way. Sign up to be notified, here.







A massive wall of sound will emerge in the desert this fall at the world’s greatest live music destination Empire Polo Club in Indio, CA with the arrival of Power Trip. It’s a three-day historic event set for October 6, 7 and 8 that will bring together six iconic bands that define loud and powerful music: Guns N’ Roses and Iron Maiden (Friday, October 6), AC/DC and Ozzy Osbourne (Saturday, October 7) and Metallica and Tool (Sunday, October 8).


This unique night-time desert setting with unmatched concert production will amplify the experience beyond the traditional stadium or parking lot concert norm with three double-billed headlining performances. This is the most rocking line-up to ever perform in an unparalleled location for heavy music audiences looking for an unforgettable weekend escape.


3-Day General Admission tickets start at $599 + fees, or turn the volume up with The Pit, Reserved Floor, Grandstand Seating options, and various VIP Packages. Learn more and register for first access to tickets starting Thursday, April 6 at 10:00 AM (PT) on powertrip.live. 50/50 payment plan available for general admission tickets.


Camping Trip: Camp at the Trip in ease. Options include Car & Tent Camping, ready-to-go 2 person Lodge/4 person tents, RV spots and more. Amenities and activities are available for all campers.


Accommodations include hotel packages: Bundle your Power Trip tickets with nearby hotel accommodations and “any line” shuttle passes. Available for groups of 2 or 4 people, exclusively through Valley Music Travel. Packages start at $3,199 + fees.


Music fans who want to commemorate the weekend can pre-order a Power Trip Commemorative Print. Frame the Power Trip memories by purchasing a premium quality giclee print poster delivered in advance of the show. Designed and printed by artist J. Bannon (and limited to 300), the posters are available in 18"x24" on fine art textured stock.


For more information about ticket types, packages and more, head to powertrip.live.

In a new interview with Ernest Skinner of Border City Rock Talk, DIAMOND HEAD guitarist Brian Tatler spoke about the recent announcement that he was joining SAXON as the replacement for recently departed founding guitarist Paul Quinn.

"Paul Quinn has stepped down from touring because — I think partly it's his age," Brian said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET). "I mean, he's been doing it for so long — 45, 47 years or something. And all respect due; I mean, he's a fantastic player. So I was happy to accept the offer. And I'm looking forward to it. I'm at home busy learning the set."

In addition to a dozen or so already-announced festival appearances in 2023, SAXON has revealed that it will support JUDAS PRIEST on a U.K. tour in early 2024. "We're playing really big venues," Brian said. "And it's JUDAS PRIEST, SAXON and URIAH HEEP. And I'm amazed to be… I've never been on a tour with JUDAS PRIEST before. The closest DIAMOND HEAD's come in the past is we've been on the same festival bill. I'm a big PRIEST fan and have been since maybe 1975. So to be on tour with them where we can watch them every night and get to know 'em a little bit and chat will be fantastic. I'm stoked about that. That's only come in a couple of weeks ago, and I'm excited for that already. It's not till March 2024, but I'm already looking forward to that."

Brian joins fellow guitarist Doug Scarratt, bassist Nibs Carter, drummer Nigel Glockler and Byford for shows starting July 7 in Athens, Greece but will continue to be a member of DIAMOND HEAD.

In March, Quinn thanked fans for their "outpouring of love and respect" after his announcement that he was "stepping back from touring".

As a result of Quinn's decision, SAXON canceled its April 2023 South American tour as well as the appearance at the Monsters Of Rock cruise.

On March 25, Quinn took to his social media to write: "Dear all, seeing the tremendous outpourings of love and respect worldwide, I am deeply grateful. It was an honour sharing this life-enhancing experience with you, our loyal fans.

"I agreed to perform the confirmed shows until autumn, but due to other circumstances the band need time to regroup sooner.

"After 50 years of being on the road, I look forward to trying some new things that this battered body still allows, so our paths might cross again.
"I will always be proud of what we created with SAXON, so it will remain in my DNA. Finishing these last gigs for you and recording music when required is part of the plan.

"I wish all the best to the band for their new chapter and I hope you will join me on mine, whether it is with THE CARDS or other projects.

"Play it Loud and keep the Wheels of Steel rolling.

"All my best, Paul Quinn".

In a recent interview with Robert Cavuoto of Myglobalmind, Byford spoke about Quinn's decision to retire from the road. The singer said: "Yeah, it's gonna be a change. The thing is it wasn't a surprise. It was talked about for a few years now that he might retire. And the thing is the band are getting bigger, and we're busy and we're doing longer tours and bigger venues. I just think he wants to rest now. So it wasn't really a shock. We talked about it a few times, the fact that he gets very tired quite quickly. There's a lot of pressure on you when you're touring in a band. So, he's gonna be around. He's gonna be doing show till the end of the year with us, and he's gonna doing the new album with us. So pretty much he will be there, but not there, if you know what I mean."

Asked if SAXON is "actively auditioning" guitarists to replace Quinn on the road, Byford responded: "No, not at the moment. We're gonna put somebody in who's been around for a long time and can play great guitar. We want somebody who's from that same era — the '80s era — so I'm gonna let people guess on that."

When Paul's departure was first announced on March 10, SAXON said in a statement: "After much soul searching our great friend and fellow warrior Paul Quinn has decided to step back from touring with SAXON. After many years on the road, with the subsequent stress and tiredness that accompany long tour schedules, Paul doesn't want his performance to suffer and let his fellow band mates and fans down. Paul will continue to record with the band and may play select special shows in the future.

"SAXON stand by Paul's decision and will keep you all informed regarding our next journey.

"The current run of March shows in Europe will continue as is but the band will be cancelling their April dates in South America and the MOR Cruise to give time to re-group. These territories will be re-booked as soon as time permits. All summer festivals will continue as booked."

Quinn alluded to his decision on March 9 in a since-deleted Facebook post. He wrote: "You need to know I will miss you & my SAXON co-workers for the great times on and off stage, so with regret I will leave while I can still hold my head high and not worry about my fingers or brain forgetting riffs, keys or stumbling over licks, as they do occasionally. I am not taking this lightly, and I want to do SAXON proud, whilst continuing to love and play music with THE CARDS and other projects."

THE CARDS is a classic rock trio which Quinn founded in 2016 with DORO/U.D.O. alumnus Harrison Young, and VANDENBERG drummer Koen Herfst. They are currently poised to release their second album this year.

Four years ago, the now-71-year-old Quinn reflected on over four decades of being in the group in an interview with HeadBangers LifeStyle. He said: "Lots of road miles and air miles. It feels great to be relevant still. We always have a blast and I think the audience know that we are one of them. We are one of those party bands that they like. That always helped to get the message across, and Biff shouting at them occasionally. We've always had good members and good songwriters. The present band is included, and we’ve made some good stuff together, I think."

SAXON's new album, "More Inspirations", arrived on March 24 via Silver Lining Music. Following the release of "Inspirations" in 2021, "More Inspirations" is the second "deep dish" serving of the influences which have fed SAXON's immensely successful 40-plus-year career.

Produced by Biff, with Seb Byford helping record the music alongside mixing engineer Jacky Lehmann, "More Inspirations" includes takes on RAINBOW, ZZ TOP and CREAM, as well as "Razamanaz" by NAZARETH, THE WHO's "Substitute", and URIAH HEEP's "Gypsy".

Byford and Quinn are the sole remaining original members in SAXON's current lineup.

In a new interview with Gastão Moreira of Brazil's Kazagastão (KZG),ex-MEGADETH bassist David Ellefson was asked if it bothers him to talk about his former band now, two years after he was fired from the group. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "It doesn't. It really doesn't. I mean, look, I spent almost 40 years — well, this year is 40 years, coming up in June, is 40 years of when Dave [Mustaine] and I started the band. If I'm gonna disrespect that, then that's to disrespect me. That's to say what a loser I am, what a dumb thing I did. 'You're an idiot, David.' And I'm not an idiot. It was an awesome thing. Now, was it challenging? Yeah. Did it have its hardships? Of course it did. But it also, obviously, had its big successes.

"I'm sad when I see Paul Stanley and Ace Frehley [of KISS] arguing, or whatever is going on," he continued. "It's, like, these are my heroes. And we're all grown men now, so it's a different kind of thing. But they're still my heroes. And I even think about that with our fans. It's, like, they don't wanna see us fighting. We're their fucking heroes, man. We changed their lives. We wrote songs that got them through good and bad times. So that's why I don't wanna go talk smack. I've had interviewers who have wanted to go there with me. I try not to take the bait. I've turned down some big interviews with people who wanted to address that. And I'm, like, 'Me and Dave aren't talking about it, so neither should you.'

"My friend Dave, despite our differences and the things we've gone through, we've been friends through better or worse — it's like a marriage; for better or worse," Ellefson added. "And even though you may not be talking and you may not be hanging out together now, the truth of it is we did something that was just… Basically, it was like we were astronauts who went to the moon, man."

Ellefson was fired from MEGADETH in May 2021, just days after sexually tinged messages and explicit video footage involving the bassist were posted on Twitter.

Shortly before Ellefson was dismissed from MEGADETH, he released a statement on Instagram denying all social media chatter that he "groomed" an underage fan.

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

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

Earlier this month, Ellefson told Brazil's Heavy Talk that he believes Mustaine was
"getting pressure from some other people around him" to fire Ellefson in response to the sexually tinged messages and explicit video footage involving the bassist which were leaked on the Internet. "And it's too bad it went that way," he said. "Because it was really nothing. I took care of it. And then once the word came out that I was fired, then it turned into this big fucking thing, which, quite honestly, was very damaging and very hurtful and not fair. I'm glad I don't have that fucking amends on my shoulder, because that was fucked up."

David went on to say that he has "no choice" but to "forgive it so I can move on. We're all human, and it is what it is," he explained. "You can't lament it. I've watched how [Mustaine has] treated his dismissal from METALLICA, still bitching about it 40 years later, and I think it looks fucking pathetic. And it's, like, 'You know what? Fix you shit and move on.' And that's how I've chosen to deal with it: fix your shit and move on."

Ellefson added: "I mean, look, I knew three things when I met Dave: one, our band was gonna be successful; two, it was gonna be a lot of work; and three, one day this is gonna end really badly. I just could tell. [Laughs] Even at 18 years old, a kid from the farm, naïve as I was, I went, 'Yeah, all three of those things.' And I was right: check, check, check. I certainly didn't see it ending like that. And part of me, I always kind of go, 'Is it really the end of the story?' I mean, look at how it ended in 2002. In 2004 and [200]5, we were in litigation over business matters and stuff, and I ended up going back to the band. So I'd rather not disrespect it and be pissed about it. These are things that you work out privately, not publicly. And the press liked to have a field day with it because it was good clickbait there for a season. But the truth of it is Dave and I aren't talking about it anymore, and that's why I'm not talking about it anymore. At some point, you move on. You let the music do the talking now."

New Wave of British Heavy Metal stalwarts, Raven, have unleashed their crushing new single, ‘Surf The Tsunami’, taken from the upcoming album, All Hell’s Breaking Loose.


"Surf The Tsunami" showcases the relentless, resolute energy the three-piece brings to everything they do. Prepare yourself for a truly vehement ambush as drummer Heller gatecrashes your eardrums with a furious flurry of his own, before some supreme twister riffs bring on the full metal chaos!


“The second video from our new album is ‘Surf The Tsunami’ which features our very own ‘Drum Tsunami’ Mike Heller!,” enthuses co-founding bassist and vocalist John Gallagher. “It has a blistering opening... killer riffs and I get ‘Tsunami-ed’ in the middle... it’s 100% metal!!!”







Set for release via Silver Lining Music on June 30, All Hell’s Breaking Loose, demands that you prepare yourself for a metal rampage the likes of which you haven’t enjoyed in many a year.


“It’s pretty overwhelming when you listen to the new record. It’s also great to know that we can perform the songs live. We’re not doing any kind of tapes and all that bullshit! We can still just be a kick-ass power trio!” adds John.


The Newcastle pioneers, formed by the Gallagher brothers (bassist/vocalist John and guitarist Mark) and rounded out by drummer extraordinaire Mike Heller have emerged from Heller’s own Heaven And Heller Studios in Los Angeles with 10 crisp, visceral metal classics, each fused with riffs, twists, turns, chaos and more hooks than all the Hellraiser movies combined (think hyperbole, ‘turn-it-UP’ and find out for yourself)!


What Raven have delivered with All Hell’s Breaking Loose is permission for everyone to remember exactly what it’s like to lose yourself in the healing aural waters of supreme heavy metal music, resplendent in sweat-soaked denim and leather.


All Hell’s Breaking Loose will be available on 12” Black Vinyl, 12” Limited Edition Green Vinyl, CD Digipak, Tape Cassette, Digital Formats and special D2C bundles; pre-order here.





Tracklisting:


"Medieval"
"Surf The Tsunami"
"Turn Of The Screw"
"All Hell’s Breaking Loose"
"The Far Side"
"Desperate Measures"
"Victory’s Call"
"Edge Of A Nightmare"
"Invasion"
"Go For The Gold"


"Go For The Gold" video:





Raven are:


John Gallagher - lead vocals, bass, 12-string bass
Mark Gallagher - guitar, vocals
Mike Heller - drums


(Top photo - Raven)

Veteran rockers TESLA will release their new live album, "Full Throttle Live", on May 26. The LP will include the band's latest single, "Time To Rock!", plus other songs, all recorded last August at Full Throttle Saloon in Sturgis, South Dakota.

Independently recorded, mixed and produced by guitarist Frank Hannon and bassist Brian Wheat, this new live album truly captures TESLA in pure honest form, and even dives deeper into their roots by recording a live version of the 1974 AEROSMITH classic "S.O.S. (Too Bad)" as a bonus track. The heavier song choices range from "Miles Away" to more recent hard releases like the aforementioned "Time To Rock!" and "Cold Blue Steel". But don't worry, there are old TESLA classics captured too, like "Changes" and "Lazy Days, Crazy Nights", all recorded as TESLA is best — 100% full-throttle live.

Track listing:

01. Miles Away
02. Changes
03. Time to Rock
04. Breakin' Free
05. Call It What You Want
06. Lazy Days Crazy Nights
07. Cold Blue Steel
08. Edison's Medicine
09. S.O.S. (Too Bad)

The song "Miles Away" can be streamed below.

In a recent interview with Metal Edge, Hannon stated about "Full Throttle Live": "It's 100% live, and it was recorded at the Sturgis Bike Rally, which is one of the great events that we love. It's got motorcycles, rock music and a ton of energy. We love it, and the night that we played there, man, we were on fire. And I think we really captured it with this record… like lightning in a bottle. We've got a bonus track that we'll include, an old AEROSMITH song called 'S.O.S. (Too Bad)', and I don't think too many people know it. We basically went back to California, hunkered down in my garage, set up some microphones, and recorded it live right then and there. I think that song is one of their best songs, and it was killer to get to record it."

Regarding what inspired him and his bandmates to cover "S.O.S. (Too Bad)", Hannon said: "I've always loved it; it frickin' rocks. I feel that it's an example of AEROSMITH in their prime doing those sleazy guitar riffs. The 'Live! Bootleg' album was a game changer for me as a kid. When that came out, I studied that album by listening to it repeatedly through my headphones, and one of the things that I loved most was the raw energy. I've always loved live recordings, which really influenced TESLA in the '80s. When we made our first albums in the studio, like 'Mechanical Resonance' and 'The Great Radio Controversy', we recorded those as a band, together in a room. It was all live. There's a spontaneous energy there that can only be captured when the group is playing together, and I think you really lose that when you're playing separately. There's no way around that. Sure, we've done records that way recently out of convenience, but nothing feels better when we're in a room together, hammering it out. So, to do this AEROSMITH song in my garage live, with no restraints, was like taking the emergency brake off and just stepping on the gas."

In September 2021, TESLA drummer Troy Luccketta announced that he would "take a little time from the road" to spend with family and friends. He has since been replaced at TESLA's gigs by Steve Brown, the younger brother of former DOKKEN drummer Mick Brown.

Due to overwhelming demand, TESLA recently added five shows to its residency at House Of Blues at Mandalay Bay Resort And Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. The new dates will begin on Friday, September 29.

FOO FIGHTERS have unveiled "Under You", an aggressively melodic punk-tinged earworm sure to join its predecessor in massive summer singalongs on the band's upcoming tour dates.

"Under You" is the second advance offering from the Rock And Roll Hall Of Famers' 11th album, "But Here We Are", out June 2 on Roswell/RCA. The new song follows "Rescued" — which has generated raves including "driven by a fresh sense of pathos and urgency" (The New York Times),"FOO FIGHTERS have never sounded more vital" (Consequence)," "one of the FOOS' most immediate, emotional songs" (Vulture),"delivers everything fans have come to know and love" (Revolver) and more.

A brutally honest and emotionally raw response to everything FOO FIGHTERS endured over the last year, "But Here We Are" is a testament to the healing powers of music, friendship and family.

Produced by Greg Kurstin and FOO FIGHTERS, "But Here We Are" is in nearly equal measure the eleventh FOO FIGHTERS album and the first chapter of the band's new life. Sonically channeling the naiveté of FOO FIGHTERS' 1995 debut, informed by decades of maturity and depth, "But Here We Are" is the sound of brothers finding refuge in the music that brought them together in the first place 28 years ago, a process that was as therapeutic as it was about a continuation of life.

"But Here We Are" track listing:

01. Rescued
02. Under You
03. Hearing Voices
04. But Here We Are
05. The Glass
06. Nothing At All
07. Show Me How
08. Beyond Me
09. The Teacher
10. Rest

Today also marks the announcement of "Foo Fighters: Preparing Music For Concerts", a global streaming event packed with rock and roll (including debut performances of songs from "But Here We Are"),exclusive behind the scenes footage, and a few surprises — all captured in the spacious yet homey confines of the band's own 606 studios. "Foo Fighters: Preparing Music For Concerts" will premiere May 21 at 8 p.m. BST / 3 p.m. EST / 12 p.m. PST exclusively at foofighters.veeps.com, with on-demand repeat viewing enabled through May 24. Whether you've got tickets for an upcoming FOO FIGHTERS show or not, don't miss this chance to get intimate — and LOUD — with the last great American rock band.

"Shows like this don't happen every day," said Joel Madden, CEO and founder, Veeps. "To take this moment to gather fans worldwide, to give people an opportunity to share in the experience no matter where they are, is a gift. Having a place to make these moments accessible is why we built Veeps and we're honored to be trusted with delivering this incredible show for FOO FIGHTERS and all of their fans."

FOO FIGHTERS' upcoming tour will kick off May 24 at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion in Gilford, New Hampshire.

This past December, FOO FIGHTERS vowed to carry on as "a different band" following the passing of drummer Taylor Hawkins.

The Dave Grohl-fronted outfit addressed its future while sharing a New Year's Eve message on social media.

The FOO FIGHTERS wrote: "As we say goodbye to the most difficult and tragic year that our band has ever known, we are reminded of how thankful we are for the people that we love and cherish most, and for the loved ones who are no longer with us.

"FOO FIGHTERS were formed 27 years ago to represent the healing power of music and a continuation of life. And for the past 27 years our fans have built a worldwide community, a devoted support system that has helped us all get through the darkest of times together. A place to share our joy and our pain, our hopes and fears, and to join in a chorus of life together through music. Without Taylor, we never would have become the band that we were — and without Taylor, we know that we're going to be a different band going forward.

"We also know that you, the fans, meant as much to Taylor as he meant to you and we know that when we see you again — and we will soon — he'll be there in spirit with all of us every night."

Hawkins was found dead in March 2022 in a hotel room in Colombia, shortly before FOO FIGHTERS were due to play a festival in Bogotá. He was 50 years old.

No cause of death was announced, although a toxicology report showed traces of 10 substances in his body, including opioids, marijuana and anti-depressants.

Investigators did not say whether the mix of drugs was a factor.

Hawkins had been the FOO FIGHTERS drummer for 25 years, taking over from original drummer William Goldsmith in 1997. He is survived by his wife Alison and their three children.

FOO FIGHTERS staged two tribute concerts in honor of Hawkins. The first tribute concert took place September 3, 2022 at London's Wembley Stadium. A Los Angeles concert was held on September 27, 2022 and raised money for Musicares and Music Support charities and served as a farewell party for Hawkins's adopted hometown.

Other notable tributes to come in the months following Hawkins's death included a segment at last year's Grammy Awards, a drum circle in Taylor's hometown, and a live performance of the FOO FIGHTERS song "My Hero" by more than 1,000 musicians.
‘But Here We Are’
Available June 2
Pre-order here: https://t.co/mzubnk5ol3

Listen to the first song ‘Rescued':https://t.co/gWRpmKfQfPpic.twitter.com/MnqCYmM1pJ

— Foo Fighters (@foofighters) April 24, 2023

On May 11th, death metal trailblazers The Agonist announced that they have called it quits. Following a issued issued by the band as a whole, found here, vocalist Vicky Psarakis shared the following message:


"This is the hardest post I've had to write to this day. Please, bear with me.


The Agonist has decided to come to an end. You may read the full announcement on the band's social media pages. 




There are many reasons that led us to this decision, too many to convey in writing, but I want you to know that it was not made lightly. This has been a long time coming. I want you to know that I am grateful for all my time in this band. Ten years of my life were dedicated to our music. Three full-length albums and an EP: 40 songs total. Forty songs in which I poured my heart and soul and connected with you through them.


I want you to know that I am grateful for the tours we did all over the world. Playing shows is something I learned to love, but what I always loved the most was meeting you. The people who listen to our music, read our lyrics and sing along and headbang to our songs each night.


I want you to know that I tried. The very first thoughts I had of giving up came to me in 2017. I stuck with it and pushed through. Because of that we created Orphans and Days Before The World Wept, both of which were critically acclaimed and Juno nominated records. They were life changing to me in many ways. I am proud of everything we've accomplished.


Most importantly, I want you to know that I have no regrets. Because of my journey with The Agonist, I have met many significant people who are in my life right now. I would never have met all of you, had I not said 'yes' all the way back in 2014. I hope you stay in my life forever.


Last but not least, I want you to know that no other band or project has been a factor in this decision. I am a full-time musician and my only source of income is through my music. My work with Sicksense, guest features and covers was always something I was able to do alongside The Agonist. Many artists are involved in multiple projects, so I kindly ask that you do not jump to inaccurate conclusions and be respectful towards what I choose to do with my musical career.


When I turned 18, I got into an economics university. Barely a month later, I decided I wanted to be a musician and dropped out. I had no former music training, education or background, yet writing songs was the only thing in my life that made things better. I cannot imagine a world in which I don't get to do that. I hope you will be there with me every step of the way. I will be creating music until the day I'm gone.


Thank you to everyone that has supported me. I would not be here today without you."


And I'll hold out my hand
If my fingers should ache
And my grip starts to weaken
I will hold my hand to the world


- Days Before The World Wept

Rock enthusiasts, Stone Whiskey, have just issued the video for their latest single "Doom And Gloom" - a cover of the classic Rolling Stones tune. The band has put their own unique spin on the track, adding their signature sound and style to the legendary song.


"Doom And Gloom" is a timeless classic, originally recorded by the Rolling Stones in 2012. Stone Whiskey's rendition of the song is an electrifying version that is sure to captivate listeners with its edgy guitar riffs and powerful vocals.


The band's passion for music is evident in this new single, as they have infused the track with their own brand of energy and creativity. Fans of classic rock and roll will appreciate the familiar sound of the original, while also enjoying the new twists and turns that Stone Whiskey has added to the song.







Lead singer, Alan Rueda, said of the new single, "We've always been huge fans of the Rolling Stones, and 'Doom And Gloom' is one of our favorite songs. It's an honor to put our own spin on this classic, and we're excited to share it with our fans."


Stone Whiskey has been making waves in the music industry with their dynamic sound and high-energy performances. The band has built a loyal fan base with their original music and covers of classic rock songs. "Doom And Gloom" is sure to be a hit with their fans.


Guitar player, Bill Spears, said on the release “We wanted to give our fans some new content to rock to. Hopefully it will hold them over till our new album is complete.” 





Stone Whiskey is currently in the studio recording their sophomore album, scheduled to be released in the Fall of 2023. 


“We are trying to stick to our roots but also show that we have evolved as a band since our debut album,” said Alan. “We have to make sure that this next album can stand up to our first one” 


The new single is now available for streaming and download on all major music platforms. For more information about Stone Whiskey and their music, visit the band's website or follow them on Facebook.





 

Styx drummer Todd Sucherman has shared another single drum cam video, this time from the band's performance of "The Red Storm" in Boston, MA at MGM Fenway on May 12th. Check it out below.


"The Red Storm" is taken from Styx's 2017 album, The Mission.







Catch Styx live in concert at the following shows:


June 
1 - Watertown Municipal Arena - Watertown, NY
2 - Artpark - Lewiston, NY
3 - Freeman Arts Pavilion - Selbyville, DE
14 - Durham Performing Arts Center - Durham, NC
16 - Fox Theatre - Atlanta, GA
17 - Ryman Auditorium - Nashville, TN
18 - Ryman Auditorium - Nashville, TN


July
6 - Centennial Terrace & Quarry - Sylvania, OH
7 - BMO Pavilion - Milwaukee, WI
8 - Wenonah Park at World Friendship Shell - Bay City, MI
11 - RiverEdge Park - Aurora, IL
12 - Interlochen Center For The Arts - Interlochen, MI
14 - Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park - Des Moines, IA
15 - Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds - Chippewa Falls, WI
27 - The Pacific Amphitheatre - Costa Mesa, CA
28 - California Mid-State Fair - Paso Robles, CA
29 - Thunder Valley Casino & Resort - Lincoln, CA


August
2 - Ohio Expo Center and Fair Grounds - Columbus, OH
8 - Sturgis Buffalo Chip - Sturgis, SD
11 - Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom - Hampton Beach, NH
12 - Keeping The Blues Alive - Wantagh, NY
13 - Keeping The Blues Alive - Bethel, NY
26 - Stir Concert Cove at Harrah's Casino & Hotel - Council Bluffs, IA
30 - Allentown Fairgrounds - Allentown, PA
31 - Stark County Fairgrounds - Canton, OH


September
21 - Washington State Fair - Puyallup, WA
23 - Boise State University - Boise, ID
25 - Humphreys Concerts By The Bay - San Diego, CA
27 - Yaamava Theater - Highland, CA
29 - Nugget Event Center - Sparks, NV
30 - Laughlin Event Center - Laughlin, NV


October
12 - Blue Gate Performing Arts Center - Shipshewana, IN
13 - Hard Rock Casino - Gary, IN
17 - Peoples Bank Theatre - Marietta, OH
20 - Municipal Auditorium - Charleston, WV
21 - Old National Events Plaza - Evansville, IN


November
2 - Tuacahn Amphitheatre - Ivins, UT
3 - Tuacahn Amphitheatre - Ivins, UT
7 - Ford Wyoming Center - Casper, WY
9 - Apache Casino Hotel - Lawton, OK





 

Stardust is back with a new album! The up-and-coming melodic rockers have announced the forthcoming release of their second studio album, Kingdom Of Illusion, on June 16. The new album once again is a stunning showcase of the band's talents in the melodic rock / AOR genre, while simultaneously introducing their ability to effortlessly delve into a more hard rocking sound.


Watch a music video for the new single, "Losing Me", below, and pre-order/save Kingdom Of Illusion here.


Hungary's Stardust are one of the hottest new melodic rock bands to come out of the underground European scene in recent years. Their independently released self-titled debut EP stirred up quite a buzz in the underground melodic rock scene, which ultimately led to their signing to Frontiers Music Srl after some ardent fans of the band put them to the attention of label staff during one of the Frontiers Rock Festivals. The band released their debut full-length, Highway To Heartbreak, in October 2020 to great critical acclaim, proving that the early buzz generated by their EP was more than warranted.




Founded in 2015, Stardust's style is an amalgam of the classic melodic hard rock and AOR genres, with hooky choruses, beautiful keyboards, vocal harmonies, and loud guitars in the style of their favourite mid-80's bands, bringing to life this well beloved music in the 21st century. After the great reception to their debut album, Kingdom Of Illusion sees these ambitious rockers further developing and enhancing their sound for another truly delightful release.





Kingdom Of Illusion tracklisting:


"War"
"The Fire"
"Losing Me"
"Sacrifice"
"Love Sells"
"Heroes"
"One First Kiss"
"Make Me Feel Your Love"
"Ain’t No Woman"
"Sarah"
"Don't Know What You Got (Till It's Gone)"


"Losing Me" video:





"The Fire" video:





Lineup:


Adam Stewart - Vocals
Facey - Guitars
Ben Martin - Bass
Dave Legrant - Keyboards
Peter Horn - Drums

Los Angeles-based progressive death metal practitioners, The Zenith Passage, will unleash their towering Datalysium full-length on July 21 through Metal Blade Records, today unveiling the record's cover art, first single, and pre-orders.


While far too many progressive and technical death metal bands are happy to walk the same path and stick to a tried-and-true sound, on their second full-length The Zenith Passage forges new and exhilarating territory. From start to finish, Datalysium is driven by imagination and played by artists who have full command of their instruments, creating something that stands out of any pack while maintaining what made them such a riveting proposition in the first place.


Featuring overhauled lineup that sees original guitarist/keyboardist/backing vocalist Justin McKinney joined by guitarist Christopher Beattie (Dreamer), vocalist Derek Rydquist (ex-The Faceless, John Frum) and bassist Brandon Giffin (ex-The Faceless, Cynic), Datalysium finds the band further pushing disparate influences to the forefront of their sound.




The band elaborates, "There's always been things that were subtly done on previous releases, like jazz fusion passages, dissonant black metal, synth, and orchestral elements, as well as singing. What we haven't done before is put those influences and ideas more upfront in the songwriting and production. Singing has become a pretty prominent part of some of these songs, as well as synth orchestration and really eerie, dissonant, pissed off black metal influence. We're doing all of this while attempting to tell a harmonic and lyrical story that keeps the listener engaged and wondering what could happen next."


The result is the perfect marriage of technical head-fuckery, atmosphere, melody, and shifting dynamics, constantly demanding the listener's undivided attention. From opener "The Axiom Of Error" with its stop-start attack to the agitated, richly textured and unstoppable "Synaptic Depravation," or the dramatic, lush and epic closing title track, The Zenith Passage is relentlessly creative and insistently push their sound in interesting, engrossing directions.


In advance of the release of Datalysium, today the band unleashes first single, "Lexicontagion," noting of the track, "'Lexicontagion' is a representation of the entire musical spectrum from the band. It is a song that takes you on a crazy adventure, with fast speeds and unexpected turns, while maintaining a familiar motif throughout the piece. We wanted to highlight the dynamics of the band on a compositional level and production level. So there's a lot of depth to it, where the listener can discover a new element to the music upon each listen. Which is the case for the entire record, it's a wild ride."


Watch the video for "Lexicontagion" below.


Datalysium was recorded between McKinney's home studio and Rydquist's apartment, with some vocals tracked at Flatline Audio with Dave Otero (Cattle Decapitation, Wake), who also mixed the album. McKinney handled the tracking, while they brought in Ryan Williams (The Black Dahlia Murder, John Frum) to produce some of the bass and vocals. Having been friends with Williams for years, it felt natural to have him be a part of the recording process, while Otero also contributed profoundly. A longtime friend of McKinney, this is the first time they have actually collaborated on a record. "Dave is the kind of dude that just gets it, when going for the sound or idea we have in mind, even bringing an idea to light that we never even thought to do and collaborating and expanding on these ideas further. We were expecting some really epic stuff from Dave, but the end result of that has proved to be way more than those expectations."





Datalysium will be released on standard LP, limited-edition LP, CD, and digital formats. For pre-orders, head here.





Datalysium tracklisting:


"The Axiom Of Error"
"Algorithmic Salvation"
"Lexicontagion"
"Synaptic Depravation"
"Deletion Cult"
"Divinertia I"
"Divinertia II"
"Automated Twilight"
"Datalysium"


"Lexicontagion" video:





The Zenith Passage will join labelmates Allegaeon for a short run of live dates beginning tonight in Las Vegas, Nevada with additional shows to be announced in the weeks to come.


The Zenith Passage:


Justin McKinney - guitars
Chistopher Beattie - guitars
Brandon Giffin - bass
Derek Rydquist - vocals

San Diego, California-based deathgrind behemoths, Cattle Decapitation, released their herculean tenth studio album, Terrasite, on May 12th via Metal Blade Records. The label is now offering a free stream of all ten songs, enjoy:





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, the band returns with Terrasite, which is as bold a statement as they have ever made. Roaring to life with the savage yet hauntingly melodic "Terrasitic Adaptation" and advancing through the likes of the relentless "We Eat Our Young" and culminating with the ten-plus minutes of "Just Another Body," it's an album that constantly shifts dynamics and demands a variety of emotional responses.




Elaborates guitarist Josh Elmore, "All the Cattle hallmarks are there; ripping blasts, abrasive and aggressive guitar/bass riffs and [vocalist] Travis [Ryan]'s varied vocal approach; but this record just feels different. There's a deep richness to the guitar tones and a more prominent bass guitar presence, the drums parts are assaultive, but tasteful and Travis' vocals are as varied as they've ever been but with an added emotional depth. The whole record sounds like a somber panic attack; like mourning the loss of a loved one at Mach 3. The trademark Cattle intensity is always there, but this time at paces that range from frantic to controlled and driving but with more focus on menacing heaviness. The ambient and effect-laden guitar presence also takes up a much larger part of the whole experience."


Terrasite, which features the artwork by longtime collaborator Wes Benscoter (Vader, Kreator, Bloodbath, Hypocrisy), was produced by Dave Otero (Cephalic Carnage, Allegaeon) and includes Tony Parker of Midnight Odyssey handling piano and synths.


Order here.





Terrasite tracklisting:


"Terrasitic Adaptation"
"We Eat Our Young"
"Scourge Of The Offspring"
"The Insignificants"
"The Storm Upstairs"
"…And The World Will Go On Without You"
"A Photic Doom"
"Dead End Residents"
"Solastalgia"
"Just Another Body"


"Scourge Of The Offspring" video:





"We Eat Our Young" video:





"A Photic Doom" video:





(Band photo - Nick Van Vidler)