Reading, Pennsylvania-based progressive death metallers Rivers Of Nihil have reissued their debut EP, Hierarchy, via Metal Blade Records. A new visualizer for "Ultimate Sentience" is available below:





Initially released independently in 2010, the updated edition of Hierarchy has been remixed and remastered by original producer Carson Slovak at Atrium Audio. Hierarchy is available digitally and on vinyl in the following variants:




- Black (US)
- Grey (EU)


The vinyl edition comes with an etching on Side B. Order at this location.





Tracklist:


"Chambers Of Civility"
"Human Adaptation"
"Ultimate Sentience"
"Post-Mortem Prostitution"


Rivers Of Nihil have never fit neatly into a box, but with 2018’s Where Owls Know My Name, they transcended all labels applied to them. Returning in 2021 with The Work, they forged further into new territory, once again upending any expectations fans had placed on them. And now, with a new series of singles recorded in 2023 and released as singles since then – eventually appearing together on a new album – the band has once again shattered the ceiling of how far they are willing to go in search of new sonic terrain.


The band spent 2021 and 2022 burning the candle at both ends with a frenzied tour schedule including headlining runs of the US and Europe, a jaunt on the European festival circuit, and two runs in support of The Black Dahlia Murder and The Contortionist in North America. But once the latter tour wrapped up, they were short a band member.


For personal reasons, founding vocalist Jake Dieffenbach and the band went their separate ways. The split took place just three days after the recording of a live video and audio session for Audiotree’s From Nothing series, which was released on April 20th, 2023. And while the band initially wasn’t sure how to approach the release with the departure of a founding member and lead singer — or whether to release it at all — they decided to move forward with it to honor Dieffenbach’s contributions to the group over the years and mark the beginning of a new chapter.

In a new interview with The Logan Show, Jeff Pilson was once again asked if he thinks there is still a chance of the classic lineup of DOKKEN reuniting for a new album or possibly even some live shows. The 66-year-old bassist, who has been a member of FOREIGNER since 2004, responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "There's always pressure on us to reform and reunite and do a record, and I would love to do a record — I would love to do a last DOKKEN record that was really good. And judging by what we did in 2016 together, our chemistry is kind of intact. It's not gonna go anywhere. So if we did a record, it'd be great, but I don't anticipate it, partly because of my schedule and partly I think Don [Dokken, DOKKEN frontman] is — I think he has his own version of the band right now and I think he's pretty happy with that. I don't think he wants to deal with a situation where other guys are kind of equals with him. And I'm not saying that as a slight; I'm just saying I think that's the fact. I think he just doesn't wanna deal with that. I kind of don't blame him. And remember, it's all his right now. If George [Lynch, former DOKKEN guitarist] and I get involved, it's not all his. So I don't see him wanting to do that. I mean, I know there's a part of him that would love to do a last DOKKEN record together that would be great. I think there's a part of him that knows that the best DOKKEN record would be if he and George and I wrote it; if we did a final DOKKEN record together, that would be the best result. Maybe someday. I don't know."

Pilson added: "Don has said some really nasty things about [me and George] in the press lately, so that gives me the impression that he's not in the mood to reunite at the moment. So let him stew. And he's got his own [DOKKEN] record out [2023's 'Heaven Comes Down']."

Jeff clarified that he is "never opposed" to the idea of a classic DOKKEN reunion. "You can always call me and talk about it," he said. "But the scheduling would be really tricky. And again, I don't know if Don's heart would be into it, and it would have to be George's is. George and I talk about it. He's, like, 'God, one more record. Just one more record. If we could just do one more record.' And I agree with him. We'll see. But don't hold your breath. [Laughs]"

According to Pilson, the public interest in a DOKKEN reunion has carried on far longer than he "ever would have thought. I mean, when we talked about reuniting 30 years ago, we were wondering, like, 'Well, is this kind of the end of people's interest in us?' And here we are 30 years later," Jeff explained. "So who knows? Who knows?"

For much of the past few years, Lynch has been rejoining DOKKEN on stage at various shows to perform three of the band's classic songs: "Kiss Of Death", "When Heaven Comes Down" and "Tooth And Nail". Asked in a March 2023 interview with TotalRock's Neil Jones what the experience has been like for him, George said: "For one thing, I can do it with one arm tied behind my back in my sleep. It's songs I wrote — what? — 40, 45 years ago, whatever, and I played them thousands of times. So it's easy, in a sense, but it also feels like going back home. So that's nice. And the best thing about it is Don and I get along great. The band's great. Everybody's happy. Our band is opening up, so I'm playing twice that night. We do a lot of that. These are packed houses, and everybody loves it. The whole audience is with us, and this is kind of what they're waiting for, and it's just a beautiful moment. Not a self-congratulatory moment, but just kind of an acknowledgement of the history and the power of the songs and good songwriting. It's songs that people — it marks time for them, and it's meaningful for them. And so it is a beautiful moment for all of us that we all get to share."

As for the possibility of a "full-blown reunion" of DOKKEN's classic lineup, George said: "I pretty much doubt it. Mick [Brown, former DOKKEN drummer] has quit playing drums, sold his kit. He's not a drummer anymore. His brother Steve, who's very similar to him, does play with [me and Jeff Pilson] in THE END MACHINE. Mick played on the first THE END MACHINE record. We [use] Steve Brown now. So Steve Brown would be a natural fit for a DOKKEN reunion. But Jeff's been in FOREIGNER for 14 years. I've got nine different bands. We're all older guys. And, really, to put a DOKKEN reunion together would be very, very difficult — politically, personally. And then we have to ask ourselves the honest question: would it just be a money grab or would it be a great record; would it be a great book end? We've got 'Breaking The Chains' and 'Tooth And Nail' and 'Under Lock And Key' and 'Back For The Attack'. Is it gonna hold up to that, or are we just too far past that? And the answer is I think that ship has sort of already left the harbor."

In October 2016, the classic lineup of DOKKEN — Don, George, Jeff and Mick — reunited to play the Loud Park festival in Japan. Fortunately for fans outside of Japan, cameras were there to capture the performance and Frontiers Music Srl issued "Return To The East Live 2016" in April 2018. In addition to the Japanese performance, the set featured footage from the classic lineup's only U.S. show in September 2016 at Badlands in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The package also included a new song called "It's Another Day", the first DOKKEN track featuring the group's classic lineup since 1997's "Shadowlife", and two acoustic re-workings of classic tracks.

Since completing the Japanese reunion dates, DOKKEN has continued to perform with the group's current lineup — including bassist Chris McCarvill, guitarist Jon Levin and drummer BJ Zampa (HOUSE OF LORDS).

DOKKEN's 13th studio album, "Heaven Comes Down", was released in October 2023 via Silver Lining Music. The follow-up to 2012's "Broken Bones" was produced by Bill Palmer and Don Dokken and was mixed by Kevin Shirley (AEROSMITH, IRON MAIDEN).

On November 3, Dream Theater brought their 40th Anniversary tour to the Atlas Arena in Łódź, Poland. Fan-filmed video of the entire show can be viewed below.


Setlist:


Act I




"Metropolis Pt. 1: The Miracle And The Sleeper" (First time since 2017)
"Overture 1928"
"Strange Déjà Vu"
"The Mirror" (First time since 2014, with "Lie" outro)
"Panic Attack" (First time since 2015)
"Barstool Warrior" (First time with Mike Portnoy)
"Hollow Years" (First time since 2010, demo version)
"Constant Motion" (First time since 2015)
"As I Am" (First time since 2019)


Act II


"Night Terror" (Live debut)
"This Is The Life" (First time since 2012, first time with Mike Portnoy)
"Under A Glass Moon" (First time since 2017)
"Vacant" (First time since 2006)
"Stream Of Consciousness" (First time since 2004)
"Octavarium" (First time in full since 2006)


Encore


"Home"
"The Spirit Carries On"
"Pull Me Under"





Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy appeared on the October 24 broadcast of Sirius XM's Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk. During the interview , Portnoy revealed that the band filmed the 40th Anniversary tour kick-off show in London, England on October 20th - Portnoy's first show with the band in 14 years - "for posterity", and that there are plans for an official concert recording.


Portnoy: "We do have plans to film our show in Paris (November 23) for a live Blu-ray and a live album. The thing is we're gonna be on the road till the end of next year, and the new album doesn't even come out till February, so this world tour is gonna kinda go through two phases. The whole first phase - which would be the first six to eight months - will be the 40th-anniversary reunion celebration, but at some point mid-next year, we're gonna transition into a full tour cycle supporting the upcoming album. So even with the live album, that's probably one of two releases that we'll do because we're gonna wanna do a proper live release once we start playing the new album as well."





An Evening with Dream Theater 40th Anniversary Tour 2024 – 2025:


November
9 - Oslo, Norway - Spektrum
10 - Copenhagen, Denmark - Poolen (SOLD OUT)
12 - Luxembourg - Rockhal
13 - Zurich, Switzerland - The Hall
14 - Lyon, France - Halle Tony Garnier
16 - Lisbon, Portugal - MEO Arena
17 - Madrid, Spain - La Cubierta de Leganés
20 - Stuttgart, Germany - Beethovensaal (SOLD OUT)
21 - Frankfurt, Germany - Jahrhundderthalle
23 - Paris, France - Adidas Arena
24 - Amsterdam - AFAS Live (SOLD OUT)


December
7 - Mexico City, Mexico - Explanada Estadio Azteca
10 - Belo Horizonte, Brazil - Befly Hall
13 - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Vivo Rio
15 - Sao Paulo, Brazil - Vibra
16 - Curitiba, Brazil - Live Curitiba
17 - Porto Alegre, Brazil - Araújo Vianna
19 - Buenos Aires, Argentina - Movistar Arena
21 - Santiago, Chile - Movistar Arena
22 - Santiago, Chile - Movistar Arena





February
7 - Philadelphia, PA - The Met
8 - Raleigh, NC - Martin Marietta Center
10 - Nashville, TN - Opry House
11 - Atlanta, GA - Coca-Cola Roxy
12 - Biloxi, MS - Hard Rock Café
14 - Houston, TX - 713 Music Hall
15 - Dallas, TX - Texas Trust CU
16 - San Antonio, TX - Majestic
18 - Phoenix, AZ - Arizona Financial Center
19 - Highland, CA - Yaamava Theater
21 - Las Vegas, NV - The Chelsea  
22 - Los Angeles, CA - YouTube Theater

Former IRON MAIDEN singer Paul Di'Anno's cause of death has been revealed.

Di'Anno, whose real name was Paul Andrews, passed away on October 21 at his home in Salisbury at the age of 66.

Earlier today (Monday, November 11),the following message was posted on Paul's social media: "Dear fans and friends, we have received permission from Paul's family to bring you the news of Paul's cause of death, after the results of the autopsy have been received. His sisters Cheryl and Michelle confirmed the following: 'Basically he had a tear in the sac around the heart and blood has filled inside it from the main aorta artery and that has caused the heart to stop.' Paul's death was instantaneous and hopefully painless. May he rest in peace.

"This weekend, an In Memoriam show was held at Underworld Camden, where many of Paul's fans, friends, colleagues and family members came. With a magnificent musical set, his musical colleagues said a worthy farewell to their friend."

Born in Chingford, East London on May 17, 1958, Paul first came to prominence as lead singer of English heavy metal band IRON MAIDEN between 1978 and 1981. He sang on their groundbreaking debut album "Iron Maiden" and the influential follow-up release, "Killers".

Since leaving IRON MAIDEN, Paul Di'Anno had a long and eventful recording career with BATTLEZONE and KILLERS as well as numerous solo releases and guest appearances.

Despite being troubled by severe health issues in recent years that restricted him to performing in a wheelchair, Paul continued to entertain his fans around the world, racking up well over 100 shows since 2023.

His first career retrospective album, "The Book Of The Beast", was released in September 2024 and featured highlights of his recordings since leaving IRON MAIDEN.

In December 2022, Di'Anno spent time in Split, Croatia recording an album with his new project called WARHORSE. The band was formed earlier that year by Di'Anno and two guitarists/authors, Hrvoje Madiraca and Ante "Pupi" Pupačić. The resulting LP was made available in July 2024 under the PAUL DI'ANNO'S WARHORSE banner.

WARHORSE previously recorded three songs, two of which — "Stop The War" and "The Doubt Within" — were released in May 2022 as a special DVD single along with Paul's video message to all fans who bought the single and thus helped raise funds for his knee operation.

The WARHORSE single marked Di'Anno's first music release after a seven-year hiatus due to severe health issues.

Di'Anno, who finally underwent his knee surgery in September 2022, played the first show since the operation on October 1, 2022 at the Keep It True Rising II festival in Würzburg, Germany.

In May 2022, Di'Anno came face to face with MAIDEN bassist Steve Harris for the first time in three decades before the band's concert in Croatia.

Also in May 2022, Paul played his first full solo concert in seven years at the Bikers Beer Factory in Zagreb. The show was filmed and parts of it will be included in the upcoming Di'Anno documentary, which is being helmed by Wes Orshoski, co-director and producer of the acclaimed 2010 film "Lemmy" about the MOTÖRHEAD icon, and 2015's "The Damned: Don't You Wish That We Were Dead", about punk rock legends THE DAMNED.

Photo credit: Marco Benjamin Alvarado (courtesy of Central Press for Conquest Music)

Dear fans and friends
We have received permission from Paul's family to bring you the news of Paul's cause of death,...

Posted by Paul Di'Anno on Monday, November 11, 2024

Secrets hold great power. High up in the icy north, far away from the world, a new clan, a secret society, emerged during sleepless nights. Brought into this world in mysterious alchemical processes by none other than Sonata Arctica genius Tony Kakko, this creature took shape in the long shadow of his globally successful band, lurking, waiting for the right moment.


That moment is now.


Tony Kakko has signed a record deal with Reaper Entertainment for his new project, HimmelKraft.

Sweden's Nightborn have released "Hammer Of The Heretic", the second single and title track of their upcoming EP.





Nightborn explains that, “‘Hammer Of The Herertic’ dwells on the theme of the Inquisition, exploring the idea of revenge by heretics and witches. The song is a fast-paced thrash anthem that evokes the feeling of hammering on the heads of the inquisitors, contrasting with the infamous Malleus Maleficarum. The lyrics do not follow a straightforward narrative; instead, they aim to capture a more philosophical approach by indulging in themes of existentialism and the doctrines of the occult.”




Stream the single here, and listen below:





For the recording of “Hammer Of The Heretic” and the EP, Arda used an extremely rare Ken Lawrence Explorer guitar, the only one of its kind in the world. This guitar played a crucial role in the creation of this EP, which features four brand-new songs. The songs are unrelenting, speed-driven thrash anthems.


The EP includes all music and lyrics written by Arda in classic Nightborn fashion, with Simon McKay (The Agonist) performing the drum parts, while Hubert Wiecek (Ex-Decapitated, Dieth, Blasphemer) handles the bass parts. The EP was mixed and mastered at Chris Donaldson’s studio in Montreal, CA, by Remi LeGresley (Grizzly Productions).


Nightborn will release one song from the EP each week, and the entire EP will be available on digital platforms on November 19.

Vocalist Björn "Speed" Strid of Swedish metallers SOILWORK spoke to Germany's Moshpit Passion about the band's latest single, "Spirit Of No Return", which came out last month. The track marks a significant milestone in the band's evolution, with longtime touring guitarist Simon Johansson recently officially joining the ranks of the band.

Asked if "Spirit Of No Return" is indicative of the musical direction of SOILWORK's next studio album, Strid said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Well, hard to say. I mean, we decided to just approach things quite slowly this time around because we've been through a lot, as I'm sure you know. Simon joined the fold now and he's a great guy and a fantastic guitar player. He's been playing with us live for a pretty long time, but he contributed with this new song and it has a little bit of a thrashier side to it and kind of like more SOILWORK rootsy kind of feel, but also still blended with the more current elements that we're known for. So it's really hard to say exactly where we're gonna go, but I would say that the sound is gonna be slightly more metallic, whatever that means, but I also feel that we discovered so many amazing things through when we did [the 2020 EP] 'A Whisp Of The Atlantic', with 'Verkligheten' [2019] and with 'Övergivenheten' [2022], and those elements we wanna take with us. But I think there's also maybe old things that we want to revisit and bring back again. And I think this new one, it has more sort of like a metallic vibe over it, but we keep on evolving, and I never wanna fall into some kind of cliché or trying to rehash things. So I'm as curious as you are where we're gonna go. But I think this song is maybe giving you a little bit of a hint where we're going. But we always try to experiment as well. But it's too early to say if there's gonna be a full album anytime soon. I think we're approaching things slowly. We're getting close to start doing some songwriting. And it might happen on this tour. I have the guitars right here. So who knows what's gonna happen?!"

"Spirit Of No Return" showcases SOILWORK's signature blend of frenzied intensity, soaring melodies, epic arrangements, and a touch of progressive complexity — traits that have cemented their reputation over the last decades. Johansson's contribution to the songwriting channels the band's essence while bringing fresh energy to their unmistakable sound.

The "Spirit Of No Return" music video, which can be seen below, is equally captivating, featuring a stunning sequence where the iconic SOILWORK symbol is reforged, representing the band's resurgence and renewed strength. This visual narrative perfectly complements the song's theme of perseverance and transformation.

Strid previously stated about the song: "'Spirit Of No Return' is a fierce reminder of the past, but also an introduction of the new SOILWORK era, where we've taken the thrashier early days and dressed it in a new heavier suit. Lyrics are dealing with the urge of belonging and fitting in — and how it in the end can be disastrous as you abandon your true self."

Last month, SOILWORK embarked on its biggest tour adventure yet, supporting IN FLAMES and ARCH ENEMY on a European arena tour.

SOILWORK's high-class creative consistency, which they have been delivering solidly throughout their career, is the virtue that probably best defines them. Founded at the end of 1995, SOILWORK released their debut album "Steelbath Suicide" in 1998, garnering a great early response. By 2001 SOILWORK had joined Nuclear Blast, and by 2003 they already had five records under their belt.

Continuing their tradition of high-quality musical output, 2022 saw their twelfth studio album "Övergivenheten", which represented the band in their growth and their current phase of life — marked by a time that probably no one on this planet will forget so quickly.

SOILWORK is:

Björn "Speed" Strid - vocals
Simon Johansson - guitars
Sven Karlsson - keyboards
Sylvain Coudret - guitars
Bastian Thusgaard - drums
Rasmus Ehrnborn – bass

Photo credit: Daniel Wahlström

HELMET's Page Hamilton joined LINKIN PARK on stage this past Friday (November 8) at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas to perform the song "All For Nothing". LINKIN PARK also debuted a brand new song called "Casualty" from the group's upcoming album "From Zero".

The studio version of "All For Nothing", also featuring Hamilton, appeared on LINKIN PARK's 2014 album "The Hunting Party". Page, whose band was one of the support acts at Friday's concert at Globe Life Field, was reportedly brought on to the track during the sessions for "The Hunting Party" when LINKIN PARK recognized stylistic similarities between "All For Nothing" and HELMET's music.

Hamilton previously joined LINKIN PARK on stage in 2015 at the Music For Relief festival Relief Live!, where he performed as a guest on "Faint" and "Bleed It Out".

"From Zero" is due on November 15 via Warner. It will mark LINKIN PARK's first full-length effort since 2017's "One More Light", which was the last LINKIN PARK album before the death of lead vocalist Chester Bennington.

"From Zero" features LINKIN PARK's new singer Emily Armstrong and drummer Colin Brittain, who have joined returning members Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Dave "Phoenix" Farrell and Joe Hahn in the band's new lineup. Guitarist Alex Feder is filling in for Delson at all LINKIN PARK concerts for the foreseeable future.

In an interview with Billboard about LINKIN PARK's comeback, Shinoda explained that drummer Rob Bourdon — who had founded the band with Mike and Brad — had decided to exit LP.

"Rob had said to us at a point, I guess it was a few years ago now, that he wanted to put some distance between himself and the band," Shinoda said. "And we understood that — it was already apparent. He was starting to just show up less, be in less contact, and I know the fans noticed it too. The 'Hybrid Theory' re-release [in 2020] and 'Papercuts' release [this past April], he didn't show up for anything. So for me, as a friend, that was sad, but at the same time, I want him to do whatever makes him happy, and obviously everybody wishes him the best."

According to a press release, Shinoda, Delson, Farrell and Hahn "quietly began meeting up again in recent years" and "rather than 'trying to restart the band,'" they worked with numerous musicians and "found a special kinship with Armstong and Brittain."

Regarding the band's new lineup and future plans, Shinoda said in a statement: "Before LINKIN PARK, our first band name was XERO. This album title refers to both this humble beginning and the journey we’re currently undertaking. Sonically and emotionally, it is about past, present, and future — embracing our signature sound, but new and full of life. It was made with a deep appreciation for our new and longtime bandmates, our friends, our family, and our fans. We are proud of what LINKIN PARK has become over the years, and excited about the journey ahead."

OVERKILL guitarist Derek Tailer was forced to sit out the band's November 8 concert at the Riverside Theater in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, reportedly after falling ill. The New Jersey thrash metal veterans went ahead and played the show, which was part of the group's North American tour with KING DIAMOND, as a four-piece, with vocalist Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth joined by guitarist Dave Linsk, drummer Jeramie Kling and bassist Christian Olde Wolbers. Fan-filmed video of the gig can be seen below.

Olde Wolbers recently hooked up with OVERKILL as a temporary replacement for D.D. Verni, who is dealing with an ongoing "shoulder issue".

OVERKILL's tour with KING DIAMOND launched on October 15 in San Antonio, Texas and is scheduled to conclude on December 6 in Dallas, Texas.

For some of its European shows in September, OVERKILL recruited KREATOR bassist Christian "Speesy" Giesler as a temporary replacement for Verni.

In a recent interview with Portugal's Caminhos Metálicos, Ellsworth addressed Verni's physical ailment, saying: "D.D.'s got a shoulder issue that's been going on for this entire time, even back to the last record, [2019's] 'The Wings Of War', it was beginning back then. So I think that the amount of shows that we did was actually a light amount. We would normally do more shows, if he was healthy enough to do them. And he's gotta rehab that shoulder, so he can only do so much, put so much stress on it."

Verni previously sat out OVERKILL's April 2024 Latin American tour as he was recovering from shoulder surgery. Filling in for him on the trek was former MEGADETH bassist David Ellefson. Verni returned to the live stage on May 17 at the Milwaukee Metal Fest at The Rave/Eagles Club in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

OVERKILL's latest album, "Scorched", was released in April 2023 via Nuclear Blast Records.

OVERKILL played its first concert with Kling (VENOM INC.) on August 30 at the Posada Rock festival in Câmpulung Muscel, Romania. Kling joined the veteran outfit as the replacement for Jason Bittner, who announced his exit from OVERKILL earlier that month.

Bittner joined OVERKILL in 2017 and played drums on the band's last two studio albums, 2019's "The Wings Of War" and "Scorched".



Overkill - Fuck you - 11/8/24

Posted by Dan Radomski on Saturday, November 9, 2024

DEFTONES have shared a video recap of the 2024 installment of their music festival, Dia De Los Deftones.

The event, which returned in 2022 for the first time since 2019, took place on November 2, 2024 at Petco Park in San Diego.

Joining the influential alt-metal outfit at this year's event were IDLES, SUNNY DAY REAL ESTATE (performing "Diary" in its entirety),HEALTH, PARIS TEXAS, DUSTER, GEL and QENDRESA.

DEFTONES' 20-song set included rarely heard cuts like "Lhabia", "Beauty School" and "Hexagram" (all played for the first time since 2018) as well as the band's cover of JAPAN's "Ghosts", performed live for the very first time.

Prior to 2018's first edition of Dia De Los Deftones, DEFTONES singer Chino Moreno told the San Diego Union-Tribune: "It's like putting together a mix tape, but it's a live show and you can put different artists together in one live setting... It's a well-rounded event that — even if we weren't performing at it — I think we'd enjoy going to as music fans."

DEFTONES recently completed recording all the music for their next studio album.

In the fall of 2023, DEFTONES guitarist Stephen Carpenter confirmed to the "Gnostic Academy" podcast that he and his bandmates were working on their new album with producer Nick Raskulinecz (RUSH, MASTODON, ALICE IN CHAINS). This marks DEFTONES' third collaboration with Nick, having previously worked with him on 2010's "Diamond Eyes" and 2012's "Koi No Yokan" LPs.

In 2022, DEFTONES recruited Fred Sablan as their new touring bassist following the departure of Sergio Vega. They were also joined by second guitarist Lance Jackman.

Sablan made his live debut with the DEFTONES in April 2022 at the opening concert of the band's spring 2022 U.S. tour at the Moda Center at the Rose Quarter in Portland, Oregon.

Sablan is best known as the former bassist for MARILYN MANSON, having toured and recorded with the shock rocker between 2010 and 2014. He has also played bass for CHELSEA WOLFE and PETER HOOK AND THE LIGHT, and is a member of the punk-rock supergroup HEAVENS BLADE alongside YOUTH CODE singer Sara Taylor, former ROB ZOMBIE bassist Piggy D. (on guitar) and SUICIDE SILENCE drummer Alex Lopez.

Vega, who officially joined DEFTONES in 2009, confirmed his exit in March 2022, just days after a new photo of the band without him emerged online on various digital service providers. At the time, he took to social media to share a video explaining his perspective on the split. In the Instagram video, Vega detailed the contractual issues that created a rift between himself and the group's core members.

Jackman is known for his work in Sacramento bands EIGHTFOURSEVEN, HORSENECK and WILL HAVEN.

Our 5th annual #DiaDeLosDeftones returns to San Diego on Nov 2, 2024. We’re really excited for this year’s lineup:...

Posted by Deftones on Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Welsh metallers BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE have entered the studio to begin recording their eighth album, tentatively due in 2025.

Earlier today (Saturday, November 9),the band shared a few photos from the recording studio and included the following message: "Here we go again. #bfmv #bulletformyvalentine #Vlll".

BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE released the deluxe version of its latest, self-titled album in August 2022 via Spinefarm/Search & Destroy. This extended release featured four brand new tracks, plus "Stitches", a song previously only available as a Japanese exclusive. Following the CD and digital releases, a vinyl pressing launched in November 2022.

In the summer of 2022, BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE frontman Matt Tuck spoke to "Whiplash", the KLOS radio show hosted by Full Metal Jackie, about the band's decision to pursue a more technical, aggressive direction on its self-titled album, which originally arrived in November 2021. The LP was written beginning in September 2019 with longtime producer Carl Bown, who co-produced the band's 2015 album, "Venom", and produced and mixed 2018's "Gravity".

"It just felt like the time was right," Matt explained. "It was just something that, when we wrote a couple of the key tracks that opened the door to letting the album what it is now, it just felt like the time was right.

"We came off the back off 'Gravity', which was not a technical record. For us, that album was all about emotion, it was all about the story, it was all about the vocal performances and the lyrical content," he continued. "And it was more an emotive, personal kind of album. And this time around, it became clear, after we kind of found those couple of key tracks, that this album was very different — it was very technical; it was very in your face; it was very aggressive. And we just loved that they had that contrast, and it just had its own identity and had its own moment in time in the band's catalog now. And yeah, I think because we hadn't kind of shown that skillset for a long time — since 'Venom' — and having starved ourselves of writing in that way, in a sense, that as soon as we did, it was just like four or five years' worth of stuff was just kind of flooding out. It was just a natural thing, and we just rode the wave, and the more we kind of rode it, the more technical and aggressive the songs were becoming. And it was great. It just put a smile on our face that we could showcase the heavier, more technical side of the band."

In December 2021, Tuck was asked by NME whether he thinks BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE's next album will be a mixture of "Gravity" — which he had previously described as "probably our most mellow/experimental record" — and the self-titled LP. He said: "It really depends. In a year's, two years' time, whenever we decide to kind of get involved with that, we're just gonna do what we do — we're gonna see what comes out, what feels natural, what makes us happy, what makes us scared, what makes us motivated. And coming off the back of 'Gravity' and this album, we're just gonna that whole process of confidence and no-fear attitude into the writing process, and as soon as we start smiling and high-fiving, that's when we'll know we're on the right track."

"Gravity" saw BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE's catalog surpass one billion streams in the U.S. That accomplishment solidified BULLET's status as one of the most elite bands in the hard rock scene.

In September, BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE and TRIVIUM announced the North American dates for "The Poisoned Ascendancy" tour. Support on the trek will come from AUGUST BURNS RED, with SYLOSIS and BLEED FROM WITHIN appearing on select shows.

BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE and TRIVIUM will celebrate the 20th anniversary of "The Poison" and "Ascendancy" albums, respectively, by playing them in full.

Produced by Live Nation, the 26-city tour kicks off on March 30 at PNE Forum in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, making stops across North America in Las Vegas, Chicago, New York and more before wrapping up in Raleigh, North Carolina at Red Hat Amphitheater on May 18.

"The Poisoned Ascendancy" will launch in the U.K. in late January 2025 for six shows, before the two bands, along with support act ORBIT CULTURE, head over to mainland Europe for 18 more concerts.

For BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE, "The Poison" was their debut album, which saw the band propelled to unimaginable heights. That year saw the Welsh metallers graduate from supporting FUNERAL FOR A FRIEND on their U.K. run in the summer, to ending the year headlining the very same venues just months later. Dropping in October 2005, "The Poison" hit number 21 in the U.K. album charts, becoming a late contender in end of year polls, placing at number seven on Kerrang!'s "Albums Of The Year" list, and since achieving gold status.

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During his November 8 concert at Gagarin 205 in Athens, Greece, former IRON MAIDEN singer Blaze Bayley dedicated his performance of the MAIDEN classic "Wrathchild" to another ex-MAIDEN vocalist, Paul Di'Anno, who died on October 21 at the age of 66. You can watch fan-filmed video of Blaze's rendition of the track below.

When Paul's passing was first announced, Bayley took to his social media to write: "Very sad to hear of the death of my friend Paul Di'Anno.

"Paul & I did quite a few tours & concerts together over the years… Sweden Rock, Ukraine, Australia, Scandinavia. He had a great sense of humour & those were crazy times.

"His voice & his music with IRON MAIDEN & his own projects will live on.

"Fondly remembered, sadly missed. RIP."

Di'Anno, whose real name was Paul Andrews, passed away at his home in Salisbury.

Born in Chingford, East London on May 17, 1958, Paul first came to prominence as lead singer of IRON MAIDEN between 1978 and 1981. He sang on their groundbreaking debut album "Iron Maiden" and the influential follow-up release, "Killers".

Since leaving IRON MAIDEN, Paul Di'Anno had a long and eventful recording career with BATTLEZONE and KILLERS as well as numerous solo releases and guest appearances.

Despite being troubled by severe health issues in recent years that restricted him to performing in a wheelchair, Paul continued to entertain his fans around the world, racking up well over 100 shows since 2023.

His first career retrospective album, "The Book Of The Beast", was released in September 2024 and featured highlights of his recordings since leaving IRON MAIDEN.

The day that Di'Anno's death was announced, IRON MAIDEN released a statement in which the band said: "We are all deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Paul Di'Anno earlier today. Paul's contribution to IRON MAIDEN was immense and helped set us on the path we have been travelling as a band for almost five decades. His pioneering presence as a frontman and vocalist, both on stage and on our first two albums, will be very fondly remembered not just by us, but by fans around the world. We were very grateful to have had the chance to catch up a couple of years ago and to spend time with him once more.

"On behalf of the band, [managers] Rod [Smallwood] and Andy [Taylor], and the whole IRON MAIDEN team, we extend our deepest sympathies to Paul's family and close friends. Rest in peace, Paul."

MAIDEN bassist and founder Steve Harris added: "It's just so sad he's gone. I was in touch with him only recently as we texted each other about West Ham and their ups and downs. At least he was still gigging until recently, it was something that kept him going, to be out there whenever he could. He will be missed by us all. Rest in peace, mate."

Blaze Bayley : XXX Iron Maiden Anniversary Shows
Greece & Bulgaria 2024 | Plus Special Guests 'Absolva'
08.11 : Gagarin...

Posted by Official Blaze Bayley on Sunday, October 13, 2024

Brazilian guitarist Kiko Loureiro, best known for his work with MEGADETH and ANGRA, has shared the Leo Liberti Films-directed music video for his new solo single, "Point Of No Return". The track is taken from his latest solo album, "Theory Of Mind", which is available for pre-order at kikoloureirostore.com. Products will be shipped on November 10.

Kiko states about "Point Of No Return": "This track captures the irreversible shift in our collective journey — both as individuals and as a society — toward a future where humanity and technology are inextricably linked. We stand at the edge of a monumental threshold, a point from which there is no going back. 'Point Of No Return' reflects this moment, where the advancement of artificial intelligence has reached a level that will forever change how we live, think, and interact.

"In both personal and technological evolution, there comes a moment when everything changes — when you cross into a deeper understanding, and once you see it, there's no way to unsee it. This song embodies that experience. We're at the brink of a new reality where AI is no longer a tool we control but a presence we must coexist with. As AI approaches the ability to understand, interact, and perhaps even develop its own form of awareness, humanity is being forced to adapt.

"This isn't just about technology evolving — it's about us evolving as well. We are entering a post-human era, where the line between human thought and artificial cognition is becoming blurred. 'Point Of No Return' parallels this moment, when we, as humans, will need to redefine what it means to be conscious, creative, and alive in a world shared with intelligent machines.

"Musically, the song drives forward with relentless energy, symbolizing the unstoppable march of progress. There is no hesitation, no chance to pause. It mirrors the acceleration of technology development, where each breakthrough pushes us further into this new reality. We are not just spectators but active participants in a transformation that will change the essence of what it means to be human."

Kiko previously stated about "Theory Of Mind": "When I set out to write this album, 'Theory Of Mind', it felt more like an exploration than a project. Music, for me, has always been about uncovering the hidden layers of thought and emotion, and this album took me into new territories — ones where psychology and technology intersect with the core of what makes us human. But this wasn't just a conceptual or intellectual exercise for me. I had personal experiences that led me to create this music, experiences that reshaped how I see the world and how we understand each other.

"The concept of 'theory of mind' isn't new. It's a psychological term, first developed to describe the unique human ability to recognize and interpret the mental states of others. We use it every day, often unconsciously, to navigate the social world, to empathize, to predict what others might feel or think. It becomes even more profound when applied to those who experience life differently for whom 'theory of mind' may not come naturally. In them, the gaps in understanding can be bridges to deeper ways of seeing the world. This album seeks to capture that complexity — the struggle, the beauty, and the unknown that comes with interpreting the minds of others. I've seen this first-hand, both in my own life and through people close to me. Watching someone struggle to connect with others on an intuitive level or seeing how people are often misunderstood because they process the world differently — it all started to shape my thinking. How do we understand those whose minds work in ways we can't immediately grasp? How do they understand us? These questions weighed heavily on me and became a driving force behind this album. I wanted to reflect on those personal experiences musically, creating an emotional landscape where the listener could step inside that journey, even if just for a moment.
But there's another layer to this album that extends beyond psychology and into the future of technology.

"We are on the verge of a new era where machines — artificial intelligence — are approaching what scientists refer to as 'theory of mind'. This marks the moment when AI not only calculates and processes information but begins to perceive, empathize, and interact as humans do. What intrigued me is how AI, now convincingly mimic human understanding of mental states, even outperforming humans in 'theory of mind' tests. It's one thing to create music that evokes human emotion, but what does it mean when a machine can understand and resonate with those emotions too? Imagine a world where technology not only responds but feels.

"Each track on the album is a chapter in this story, and I hope listeners feel the evolution. The opening song begins with an intricate awakening motif, almost like the first realization of self-awareness, like when a child first grasps that other people have thoughts, emotions, and experiences separate from their own. The music builds from there, layering with complexity, much like how we learn to navigate the minds of others — tentative at first, and then more certain, with moments of tension and harmony.
There's a rhythmic pulse throughout the album. It represents that shared essence we all have the need to connect, to feel understood. I incorporated melodies and counter-melodies, verses and choruses, peaceful and aggressive, dissonant or consonant that mirror the interplay of thoughts in dialogue, where communication is imperfect but still profound. The tension and release echo the internal conflicts we all experience—wondering if we truly understand others or if we're just projecting our own thoughts onto them.

"There's a vulnerability in the tracks' melodies, a fragile but fierce will to connect. In a way, it's a meditation on empathy, on the effort it can take to truly see someone for who they are.
The use of AI as an inspiration for some of the album's themes might seem abstract. As I wrote and composed, I kept coming back to the question: What happens when machines learn to understand us on an emotional level? When we teach them to interpret our mental states? Does it make them more human, or does it reveal more about what it means to be human ourselves? Should I let AI start making all the music, what about me, how can I express myself?

"'Theory Of Mind' isn't just about understanding — it's about the desire to understand. Whether it's a person who feels misunderstood, or a future AI learning to perceive our emotions, the album is an invitation to explore that space. To sit with the complexities, to feel the tension, and ultimately, to wonder — where do we go from here?"

Kiko stated about the song "Mind Rise", which was released in late September: "After years of playing in massive arenas and headlining festivals, there's something refreshing about focusing on the fundamentals. The new song taps into that, where catchy, straightforward guitar riffs take center stage, using a deep, lower-register pentatonic scale to immediately engage the listener. In my mind, the verse goes: Carlos Santana meets Jeff Beck, with sinuous, curvy lines where slight variations in playing the same note make a huge impact on the theme. As the saying goes, 'The devil is in the details,' and here those details shape the entire vibe of the track."

He continued: "The song kicks off in E minor, one of the most commonly used keys in rock guitar. But just when it feels familiar, it shifts into G major, its relative key, lifting the track and creating a sense of elevation. The dynamics between these two bring energy and keep the listener's attention without overcomplicating the composition. In this way, the song avoids relying only on a traditional chorus. Instead, it uses a strong, recurring guitar riff as its focal point. And then there's the suspense. The kind that lingers in the air like a shadow in the corner of a smoky bar, where a figure waits, watching, calculating the perfect moment to strike. That's the moment when the Neapolitan chord slips in, a classical technique thrown into the mix to build tension. The anticipation of the solo creeps in with echoes of the main melody, but this time under the command of a different chord progression. But as with any music tale, repetition is the thread that binds it all together. The riff and chorus-like sections repeat, reinforcing that music doesn't need to be overly complicated. Sometimes, it's the simple — like a direct riff — that leaves the strongest impression.

"Listen closely, and you'll hear it. Let me know what you feel when listening to the song."

Earlier in September, Kiko released another new solo single, "Out Of Nothing". He said of the track at the time: "My new single 'Out Of Nothing' emerges not from a plan but from the mystery of creation itself. When I compose, I do not think, nor do I theorize — I let my hands glide over the fretboard, as if they already know the way, discovering paths, rejecting others, always searching for the feeling that satisfies, even for a moment.

"'Out Of Nothing' kicks off with a bold tritone interval — 'Diabolus In Musica,' that notorious interval known for its tension. It's a simple, direct statement that immediately shifts the key, setting up a dynamic riff alternating between A and D with their tritones. The intensity ramps up with 16th notes that launch the track into high gear.

"The verse is simple, almost baroque in its harmony. A Tonic and Dominant, Am to E7, arpeggiated with hybrid picking over the rhythm of Baião, a syncopation from the northeastern reaches of Brazil. The original music from this area also incorporates many arpeggiated themes from European heritage. And then, bringing contrast, the chromatic lines arrive to challenge this basic cadence, introducing the mediant progression—Am to Fm—
For the chorus, I take things up a notch, moving to the fifth degree and playing with the tension between E major and minor, As I didn't feel the chorus should be completely happy and uplifting.

"In the middle of the song, I let the existing elements repeat, develop, and transform, as one might do in a symphony or a sonata. The arpeggios return, expanding the baroque spirit, and then, unexpectedly, nylon strings echo from a distant past. Before long, the tritone chord progression returns, but now with more complex lines and a mix of techniques.

"But I will not leave you lost. The verse and chorus return, as familiar as old friends. For in this song, though I take you far, I am careful never to lose you entirely."

In November 2023, Kiko announced his decision to "extend" his absence from MEGADETH's touring activities, explaining that he didn't want to "hinder any of the band's plans or the hard work of all the incredible people involved in the tour."

Kiko revealed in September 2023 that he would sit out the next leg of MEGADETH's "Crush The World" tour in order to stay home with his children back in Finland.

One day after Kiko's announcement that he was "extending" his absence from MEGADETH's touring activities, band leader Dave Mustaine released a statement in which he said that he loves Loureiro and respects and fully supports Kiko's decision. He described Kiko as "a top-notch professional, a maestro" and thanked the guitarist "for his dedication and hard work these past nine years, helping us to achieve a Grammy on 'Dystopia' and the additional awards we have received on this latest record 'The Sick... The Dying...And The Dead'." Mustaine added: "I could not have done this without Kiko Loureiro."

MEGADETH played its first concert with Kiko's replacement, Teemu Mäntysaari on September 6, 2023 at Revel in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

The 37-year-old Mäntysaari was born in Tampere, Finland and began playing guitar at the age of 12. In 2004, he joined the band WINTERSUN. He has also been a member of SMACKBOUND since 2015.

Loureiro officially joined MEGADETH in April 2015, about five months after Chris Broderick's exit from the group.

In a recent interview with Japan's Young Guitar, Brazilian guitarist Kiko Loureiro was asked about the possibility of a future guest appearance with ANGRA. He responded: "In the last two albums from ANGRA, not being in the band, I did record a guest solo. I was touring a lot and I have small kids, so I didn't wanna travel more to do a guest appearance. It might be in the future. I'm friends of everybody. I have a great history with ANGRA. Same goes with MEGADETH. I'm still friends of everybody, and I don't wanna burn bridges."

He continued: "I'm proud of all the albums I recorded with ANGRA. I'm proud of the albums that I recorded with MEGADETH, the two albums I recorded with MEGADETH, all the concerts and tours we did together. So, guest appearances, recording a solo, helping somehow or just hanging, I'm happy to do it, because I like all those people as friends and family, because I shared so many great moments of my life with the guys from ANGRA, of course, many, many years, and also almost nine years in MEGADETH as well."

Guitarist/singer/producer Dario Lorina, best-known as a longtime member of BLACK LABEL SOCIETY (2014 to present),is launching his brand new band, DARK CHAPEL.

Led by Lorina and also featuring Brody DeRozie (guitar),Mike Gunn (bass),and Luis Silva (drums),the band's airtight guitar-craft and sludgy grooves with magnetic melodies, bluesy phrasing, and grunge mystique are spotlighted on their debut album, "Spirit In The Glass", which is due out February 28, 2025 on MNRK Heavy.

The album's first single, "Glass Heart", was released today on all digital outlets. A video for the song can be seen below.

Dario's gritty delivery on the song takes hold on a hypnotic hook, bleeding into a fret-burning lead punctuated by dramatic bends. "'Glass Heart' is a lyrical and almost cinematic musical story that started with a riff and lyrically stemmed from emotion," he reveals. "That emotion created an imagery for me that I began writing about as if that feeling was a painting I was writing to describe."

Striking an elusive balance between dark and heavy, ethereal and passionate, "Spirit In The Glass" is, as Lorina describes, "a culmination of all artistic influence, whether musical or otherwise."

Lorina began his professional career in 2006 when he was 16 as the touring guitarist with the late Jani Lane (ex-WARRANT). At 19, he joined veteran metal act LIZZY BORDEN whom he toured with for four years. He released two instrumental records with Mike Varney on Shrapnel Records in 2013 and 2017, respectively, titled "Dario Lorina" and "Death Grip Tribulations". On January 1, 2014 he joined BLACK LABEL SOCIETY and has since been touring worldwide alongside Zakk Wylde, performing on guitar, piano and backing vocals ever since. Lorina dueled solos with Wylde on BLACK LABEL SOCIETY's 2022 album "Doom Crew Inc.", and he joined Zakk Wylde on the January 2022 cover of Guitar World magazine.

"The guitar never really left my hands," he laughs. Years of woodshedding followed. At 16 years old, he answered the call to audition for Jani Lane and found himself on the road with the ex-WARRANT frontman shortly thereafter.

"Spirit In The Glass" track listing:

01. Afterglow
02. Hollow Smile
03. We Are Remade
04. Corpse Flower
05. Glass Heart
06. Dead Weight
07. Dark Waters
08. All That Remains
09. Gravestoned Humanity
10. Bullet In Our Chamber

Photo credit: Shane O'Neal

Former Sabaton guitarist / Majestica frontman Tommy Johansson has shared his weekly cover, this time performing the ZZ Top classic, "Legs". Check out the video below.





Symphonic power metal quartet, Majestica, have announced their brand new studio album, Power Train, which will see the light of day on February 7 via Nuclear Blast Records. After more than four years since their last album, the Swedes are ready to set the bar high once again with their new long player and are presenting their fans what is their strongest album to date.




Power Train is a spellbinding experience that awakens sleeping dreams with powerful riffs and epic choruses. The enchantment rises like a breath of stars, propelling listeners into the heart of a fairytale world. This is particularly evident in the album's first single. With the title track "Power Train", Majestica leaves an exciting first impression and also presents a strong music video, which you can witness below.


Tommy Johansson comments: "Get ready for explosive power metal with a ”can’t stop singing along”-chorus in the new track 'Power Train'. The video literally takes you onboard the Power Train with elements taken from the entire album."


Stream the single here, and pre-order/pre-save the new album here.


When it came to the process of recording and putting all the pieces together, the band did not change a lot compared to the last projects. Again the music was written, recorded, and produced by Majestica themselves.


"Like our previous albums this one is also produced by ourselves, and we recorded most parts in our new place Majestic Studios. For mixing we went back to Jonas Kjellgren as we have been very happy with the sound of A Christmas Carol and Metal United," says bassist Chris Davidsson.


Regarding the amazing artwork for Power Train, Chris explains: "For the artwork we teamed up with Jan Yrlund / Darkgrove design. It invites you to join this majepic ride of the Power Train, imagine standing there on the platform eagerly waiting, and you hear ”all aboard”!"





Power Train contains ten brand new tracks and will be available in the following formats: CD Jewel (incl. booklet), Vinyl, and digital.





Power Train tracklisting:


"Power Train"
"No Pain, No Gain"
"Battle Cry"
"Megatrue"
"My Epic Dragon"
"Thunder Power"
"A Story In The Night"
"Go Higher"
"Victorious"
"Alliance Anthem"


"Power Train" video:





Shortly before the release of their new album, Majestica will play a few shows, perfect to

12 years following Wintersun's Time I, the Finnish heavy metal quartet led by Jari Mäenpää released their new album, Time II on August 30 via Nuclear Blast Records. A new lyric video for 13-minute album closer, the sterling "Silver Leaves" is streaming below:





Check out the previously released lyric video for 12-minute "Storm":







Jari Mäenpää on Time II: "Time II is an epic journey from light to darkness and back to light, exploring the universe and energy, contrasting dark stormy landscapes to calm and beautiful cherry blossom tree gardens with misty, snowy mountains that will leave you breathless. It has songs with furious speed of drums, guitars, and bass and beautiful melodic slower songs with a magical exotic influence. It has massive orchestrations and choirs spiced with ancient world instruments and glimmering synths. It has Jari's soaring, clean singing contrasted with his aggressive style. It is a highly detailed and complex album where you will find new things with every listen."


Order Time II here. Check out the BraveWords review of the Wintersun Time Package here.





"The Way Of The Fire" lyric video:

Night In Gales will release their ninth studio album, entitled Shadowreaper, on December 6th via Apostasy Records. They have released an official video for the new single, "Into The Evergrey", which can be viewed below.





"Into The Evergrey"
"The Horrors Of Endlessness"
"Open The Sun"
"The Nihilist Delta"
"Spirals"
"Dead Inside"
"Window To The End"
"Sculptured And Defleshed"
"Walk Of Infinity"




Pre-orders can be placed now at this location.


"Into The Evergrey"





Since their ‘return’ with 2018’s The Last Sunsets, Night In Gales are consistent in the best sense of that word. They constantly deliver melodic death metal that stays not only true to the core of the genre itself, but is also on par with its classics. And another detail will catch the attention of everyone checking their album titles: There is something more about them than just the absence of light. The “Shadowreaper” symbolizes the final stage of the finiteness of all existence: it shreds the lost souls - aimlessly caught up in “The Black Stream” – so that nothing remains. He is also the incarnation of our nightmares: a stalking horror made of shadows and burnt remains, longing for us all in the final hour.


Musically speaking, Shadowreaper is the next logical step after The Black Stream and kicks right in with "Into The Evergrey", which opens with tasteful acoustic guitars that lead into a driving monster of a song. The following "The Horrors Of Endlessness" feels like a relentless warning against the idea of eternity. While Night In Gales keep the overall speed quite high, they are also able to take the foot off the gas pedal to allow mellow moments like in "The Nihilist Delta" to shine through all ongoing darkness. While

Ricky Warwick is bringing back the golden age of Christmas songs!


His new single "All I Want For Christmas... Is Christmas!" is out now on your favourite streaming service and available to pre-order for download at this location.


Ricky says of the irresistibly feel-good track: “Christmas for me is a time when the world stops for a day and we can all get off to see the festive lights, take a breath and reset ourselves before getting back on the ride again. My two sisters and I would religiously watch Christmas Top Of The Pops. I was mesmerised by the Glam Rock brilliance of Slade and Roy Wood’s Wizzard.”




“I’m hoping this tune can put a smile on people’s faces at this time of year!”


Listen out for the guitar mastery of The Cult's Billy Duffy and guest vocals from Def Leppard's Joe Elliott (who also makes a cameo in the video).








Black Star Riders / The Almighty frontman, Ricky Warwick, has announced the release of his new solo record, Blood Ties, arriving on March 14, 2025 via Earache Records.


Says Ricky: "To make this news extra special, I’ve released my new single and video, 'Don’t Leave Me In The Dark', featuring the legendary Lita Ford!"


Stream "Don't Leave Me In The Dark" here, and watch the official music video below.


Pre-order Blood Ties here on coloured vinyl, signed CD, collector’s bundles and more.


Warwick adds: "Blood Ties is a look into my deepest, darkest personal demons - but I’ve made sure the guitars were turned up way beyond driven to turn that negativity into an uplifting slab of rock’n’roll that I can’t wait for all of you to hear. Along with Lita Ford, you’ll hear my partners in R’n'R Charlie Starr, Billy Duffy and Tuk Smith amongst others on the album. Thank you to everyone who helped me create Blood Ties but, most importantly, thanks to YOU for making sure that I can keep doing what I love: making music for each and every one of you."


The journey from Belfast to Los Angeles, entwined with a lifetime spent at the coalface of bona fide rock n roll, has made for a heady cocktail of creativity and popularity. Ricky Warwick, founder of The Almighty, Black Star Riders, The Fighting Hearts, acclaimed and respectful frontman of Thin Lizzy since 2011, remains unstoppable.


This time he’s on a solo run with the release of his new album, Blood Ties.


Acknowledging that it was time to mine a deep seam for this record, the busiest man in the business has left nothing in the dressing room. Big cathartic guitar sounds and life-affirming, often joyous assessments of where he stands in this time and place make this album a standout piece of work in a career that has spanned over four decades. The Northern Irish man has spent his time well and the foundations for an album such as Blood Ties have been laid on solid ground.


As a solo artist and an esteemed singer/songwriter in his own right, Ricky Warwick has also collaborated with some of the finest musicians on the planet, with Blood Ties featuring Billy Duffy (The Cult), Lita Ford and Charlie Starr (Blackberry Smoke). Ricky has gathered many strings to his bow and his capacity to deliver new work to an appreciative fanbase with the accuracy of a perfectly flighted arrow is beyond impressive.


Having written with his friend and creative compadre Mr Keith Nelson (Buckcherry, Velvet Revolver, Blackberry Smoke) on this album, Ricky stresses that the guitars are turned up “beyond driven” on Blood Ties. When Warwick is as happy as this with a new work, you can rest assured there’s another hit album barrelling down the track... And it’s coming at a pace.    

Theatrical rock artist Kore Rozzik's return to the music scene is here with the electrifying new single and music video "The Dollar"; a gripping exploration of the complexities of greed, temptation and manipulation in an unfortunate material and politically charged society.  


This latest release, recorded by Grammy-nominated engineer Dan Malsch (Ghost, Avenged Sevenfold), is an unabashed commentary on society's obsession with money, layered with Rozzik’s signature rock-infused style and punchy lyrics. "The Dollar" showcases Kore's evolution as an artist, delivering an irresistible fusion of hard-hitting riffs and mesmerizing melodies. With lines that resonate with urgency and authenticity, Kore Rozzik demonstrates the frustration of political division, the chase for status and the loss of innocence.







The music video, directed by Jim Foster (Red13), was shot in a vintage abandoned bank in Pittsburgh, adding a unique aesthetic that complements the song's themes. Local talent serves as the outcast group in question, creating a powerful visual narrative that juxtaposes scenes of opulence with moments of stark reality, showcasing Kore's magnetic stage presence.


The visuals are complemented by stunning cinematography and dynamic editing that mirror the song's pulsating energy. "I wanted to create something that resonates with everyone, whether you’re chasing dreams or grappling with the current difficulties we are facing in this current economic / political climate,” said Kore Rozzik. "This song is my personal take on the obsession with 'The Dollar' and what we’re willing to sacrifice to obtain it."

The 7th Guild will release the debut album Triumviro on February 21 through Scarlet Records.


The 7th Guild saw the light in 2021 as side-project of Skeletoon’s frontman and songwriter Tomi Fooler. The idea at its base was to put together a powerful trio of singers in the vein of the legendary Three Tenors (Luciano Pavarotti, Plácido Domingo & José Carreras).


Rhapsody Of Fire’s Giacomo Voli and Vision Divine/Derdian’s Ivan Giannini joined Tomi Fooler to create this magic trio. The band has been completed with a strong line-up that includes the blazing drumming of Michael Ehré (Gamma Ray, The Unity), who forms a granitic rhythm section with Francesco Ferraro (Freedom Call, Bloodorn) on bass. 




Simone Mularoni (DGM), who also produced the album at his Domination Studio, is the genius man behind the guitars, while the cinematic orchestration are vividly painted by Daniele Mazza (Ancient Bards) and Alessio Lucatti (Vision Divine, Deathless Legacy) is the majestic chief keyboard wizard.


Catchy power metal melodies are melted with a symphonic music style, giving the perception of an operatic composing process. Emerging sound passes through classic orchestral arrangements with bombastic cinematic patterns, resulting in a wonderful choral result. References to the sounds of early Rhapsody Of Fire, Andre Matos and latest Helloween appear here and there among the unique style developed by Tomi Fooler & Co.


Produced by Tomi Fooler and Simone Mularoni, and featuring the regal artwork of Thomas Ewerhard (Avantasia, Amon Amarth, Therion), "Triumviro" will be released in the following formats:


- digipack CD
- digital

Eluveitie, renowned for their unique blend of melodic death metal and traditional Celtic music, have consistently captivated audiences worldwide with their rich musical heritage and dynamic live performances. Following the success of their critically acclaimed album, Ategnatos, the band release today a deluxe edition of Ategnatos, with three acoustic versions.


Eluveitie frontman Chrigel Glanzmann comments: "So this is the last page of the Ategnatos manifesto that we turn over and with abandon immerse into the realm of ÀNV.  In a pretty personal sense Ategnatos already paved the way for ÀNV, arising as the incarnation of the spirit we have been following for 20 years now. ÀNV appears like an entity itself - it is who we are.  It is art, music, meaning and soul of a deeply Celtic spirit, ancient, natural and pagan to the core, having both feet planted in the here and now of our modern age."







Stream here.





Tour dates:


January
23 - Copenhagen, Denmark - Amager Bio *
24 - Gothenburg, Sweden - Pustervik *
25 - Oslo, Norway - Rockefeller Music Hall *
26 - Stockholm, Sweden - Klubben Fryshuset *
28 - Helsinki, Finland - House Of Culture
29 - Turku, Finland - Logomo
30 - Kuopio, Finland - Sawohouse Underground


February
1 - Tallinn, Estonia - Helitehas
2 - Riga, Latvia - Palladium Riga
4 - Krakow, Poland - Klub Studio
7 - Thessaloniki, Greece - Principal Club Theater
8 - Athens, Greece - Gagarin 205
9 - Sofia, Bulgaria - Joy Station
11 - Lju

The Veer Union have teamed up with Silent Theory for the release of the title track to their upcoming album, “Welcome To Dystopia”.  The song is the third single from the themed LP, and is the follow up to recent hits “Empirical” and “Is This How It Ends”.





“Welcome To Dystopia” is a socially conscious melodic metal song about the chaotic state of the world, fuelled by rapidly advancing technology. It features propulsive guitars and thunderous drums with a relentless heavy rhythm that never lets up.




The Veer Union says: “For the past 40 years, technological advancements in robotics have integrated into our daily lives. As governments worldwide hasten to incorporate robotics into military and law enforcement uses, it is crucial for humanity to remain vigilant and informed about the capabilities, potential consequences and the agendas of those in charge of these technologies. The situation is both awe-inspiring and alarming. When Silent Theory agreed that they were in on this track we were so stoked! When we got into the studio with them there vibe was amazing and when Dakota started throwing down his parts, we knew this was gonna be something special. Working with Dakota and the Silent Theory boys was an honor and a pleasure."


Dakota Jerns of Silent Theory adds: “This song feels like a st

Today, death-grinders Earthburner (feat. members of Broken Hope, Sanguisugabogg, Napalm Death) have unleashed their debut album, Permanent Dawn, via M-Theory Audio. Purchase/stream the album here.


For a preview, the new 40-second single/video for "Like Dogs" (created by Christian Martinez) can be seen below:







Earthburner founding-father, Jeremy Wagner, says: "Today is a great day! I've dreamed of getting Earthburner off the ground for so long... it's really a dream come true. Our Permanent Dawn album is a feather in my cap and I can't wait for the entire world to hear this slab of grind-death!


"Huge thanks to my bandmates, M-Theory Audio, Tommy McWilliams, Scott Creekmore, Trevor at Criteria Recording Studios, Nikki Law, Jackie Dusza, and the entire team who has helped make Permanent Dawn not only happen, but to put it into everyone's face and ears.


"Also, huge thanks to all the fans who've pre-ordered the album and to those who haven't gotten it yet, get your claws on this debut Earthburner album and crank the fuck out of it!"


The album was recorded at Criteria Recording Studios (Black Sabbath, Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles, etc) in Miami, FL, produced by Tommy McWilliams (Elegant Weapons) and Jeremy Wagner, mixed by Scott Creekmore (Broken Hope, Putrid Pile, Waco Jesus), and mastered by Mike Fuller (Obituary, Death, Broken Hope, Judas Priest) of Fullersound in Davie, FL.





Tracklisting:


“Necrodisiac” (feat. Immolation’s Ross Dolan)
“Like Dogs”
“Broken Head”
“Facelift”
“Permanent Dawn”
“Uncreation”
“Perception For Profit”
“Cadaveric Coprophagia”
“Hunger Pains”
“Slaves To The Screen”
“Positive Outlook” (COC cover feat. Vixen Maw’s Jake Cannavale)


"Broken Head" video:





“Permanent Dawn

Guitar sensation, Sophie Lloyd, has shared the video below, performing a shred version of Blink-182's "What's My Age Again?"


Says Sophie: "@blink182 have always been one of my favourite bands! I hope you enjoy this shred version!"







Get tickets for Sophie Lloyd's January 16 show at Whisky A Go Go in Los Angeles, California, here.


Sophie's debut album, Imposter Syndrome, is available via her own Autumn Records. The album is available as a digipack CD, Black Gatefold Vinyl and Limited Edition Gatefold Purple Splatter Vinyl. Orders can be placed here.





Tracklisting:


"Do Or Die" (feat. Nathan James)
"Pressure" (feat. Brandon Saller)
"Imposter Syndrome" (feat. Lzzy Hale)
"Let It Hurt" (feat. Chris Robertson)
"Runaway" (feat. Michael Starr)
"Fall Of Man" (feat. Matthew K. Heafy)
"Lost" (feat. Cole Rolland)
"Hanging On" (feat. Lauren Babic)
"Avalanche" (feat. Trevor McNevan)
"Won't You Come" (feat. Marisa Rodriguez)
"Judge And Jury" (feat. Tyler Connolly)


“Won’t You Come” video:





"Judge And Jury" video:





"Runaway" featuring Michael Starr of Steel Panther:





"Lost" featuring Cole Rolland:

To mark the release of the remixed, remastered and extended Queen 1 boxset, the band have released the third episode of Queen The Greatest Special: The Story Of Queen 1.


A message states: "Following the recent release of 'The Night Comes Down' as a single, taken from the Queen 1 Boxset, Brian May picks up his original acoustic guitar to exclusively demonstrate how he achieved the song's distinctive sound, and reveal the inspiration behind the deeply personal lyrics."







Watch the first two episodes below:


Episode 1:





Episode 2:





To celebrate the release of the Queen 1 boxset, the promo video made for Queen’s first ever single release, "Keep Yourself Alive", has been re-edited and restored. Now complete with the stunning new 2024 mix of the song, this video has been created by returning to the original rushes and producing an entirely new edit. The footage has then been painstakingly restored so it can be shared with fans in all its glory.





The 6CD + 1 LP Queen I box set (out now) contains 63 tracks with 43 brand new mixes, comprising the original album with its intended running order restored, intimate fly-on-the-wall audio of Queen in the studio, demos, rare live tracks, and previously unheard recordings from Queen’s first ever live performance in London, August 1970. Absent from the 1973 release, the song “Mad the Swine” has been reinstated to its original place in the running order. A 108-page book containing handwritten lyrics and memorabilia accompanies the release.





“This is not just a remaster,” writes Brian May in the CD sleeve insert notes, “this is a brand new 2024 rebuild of the entire Queen debut album, which, with the benefit of hindsight, we have re-titled QUEEN I.”


May continues, “All the performances are exactly as they originally appeared in 1973, but every instrument has been revisited to produce the ‘live’ ambient sounds we would have liked to use originally. The result is “Queen“ as it would have sounded with today’s knowledge and tec