Grammy Award-nominated progressive metallers BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME have have dropped new track, "Revolution In Limbo", the second song taken from their highly anticipated new album, "Colors II", which will be released on Friday, August 20 via Sumerian Records.

"Revolution In Limbo" follows the release of first single "Fix The Error" which spawned a brilliant animated music video, paying homage to the 1990s cartoons the band grew up watching. "Fix The Error" debuted in the Top 10 on the iTunes Metal charts and was the third most played track on SiriusXM's Liquid Metal the week it launched. Fans were so excited by new BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME music and the announcement of "Colors II" that the first pressing of vinyl pre-orders completely sold out in just 24 hours.

BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME built its influential 2007 album, "Colors", on an unwavering commitment to artistic integrity. They've only fortified that commitment on "Colors II". The circumstances surrounding both records bear key similarities, yet the North Carolina quintet — Tommy Rogers (lead vocals, keyboards), Paul Waggoner (lead and rhythm guitar, backing and lead vocals), Dustie Waring (rhythm and lead guitar), Blake Richardson (drums) and Dan Briggs (bass, keyboards) — once again stretch the boundaries of their signature sound and heavy music at large.

"Especially with 2020, we really wanted to give it all we could and show the world we're still here," explains Tommy. "That's part of the reason we named it 'Colors II'. We were in a similar spot when we did the first 'Colors'. Back then, we had just gotten done with Ozzfest. We were wondering, 'Where do we belong in this music scene?' We still struggle with that. At both of these moments in our career, we decided to just be ourselves and write the best album we can. We came out guns blazing, and I feel like it's some of our most creative material in a long time."

"'Colors' was very much our attempt at a do-or-die statement," recalls Paul. "We had to establish our identity and be who we really wanted to be in order to have a career. This time around, our industry was shutdown for a year. Once tours were canceled due to the pandemic, we were, like, 'We've got to write a record, and it's got to be good.' We had to do something next level."

"Colors II" track listing:

01. Monochrome

02. The Double Helix of Extinction

03. Revolution In Limbo

04. Fix The Error

05. Never Seen/Future Shock

06. Stare Into The Abyss

07. Prehistory

08. Bad Habits

09. The Future Is Behind Us

10. Turbulent

11. Sfumato

12. Human Is Hell (Another One With Love)

BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME will be hitting the road later this summer for the "An Evening With Between The Buried And Me" tour. In celebration of their 21 years as a band, BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME will play two special sets each evening, the first consisting of a career spanning set-list and the second, playing their album, "The Great Misdirect" in full.

July 20 was the 17th anniversary of the release of "The Best Of Both Worlds", the second greatest-hits album by VAN HALEN. The compilation features material recorded with lead vocalists David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar, but omitting Gary Cherone's three-year tenure with the band. Prior to "The Best Of Both Worlds" release, Hagar reunited with VAN HALEN, and the band subsequently recorded three new tracks to include on the album.

"The Best Of Both Worlds" debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard chart and coincided with a reunion tour. It is the last VAN HALEN album to feature contributions from Hagar and bassist Michael Anthony.

Earlier this week, Hagar and Anthony took to social media to offer their reflections on the album.

Sammy wrote: "It was interesting going back in the studio with VAN HALEN after all those years and creating new music for every package of the greatest hits. This kind of thing is what broke the band up the first time in '95. I was against doing a greatest-hits of any kind and wanted to make a new record. That never got to happen, and this go around it didn't either. My favorite track hands down is 'Up For Breakfast' — it was fun writing and singing those lyrics. Makes me think we should add that to THE CIRCLE set list. Looking back now, I really wish we would've made a whole new record."

Added Mike: "As this was all happening, I was pretty much estranged from the band and the Van Halen brothers. I remember Sammy meeting with Alex, and from there talks of a reunion started. After negotiating and me pretty much giving up all my claims to anything VAN HALEN, I was back in and ended up coming into the studio to sing the backgrounds on three songs that were recorded, 'It's About Time' being one of them. Then we started preparing for what would be the 2004 reunion tour."

Hagar replaced Roth in VAN HALEN in 1985 and recorded four studio albums with the band — "5150", "OU812", "For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge" and "Balance" — all of which topped the U.S. chart.

Hagar, Eddie, Alex Van Halen and Anthony last teamed up in 2004 for a U.S. summer tour. In exchange for taking part in the tour, Anthony reportedly had to agree to take a pay cut and sign away his rights to the band name and logo.

In early 2019, rumors were rampant that the classic-era lineup of VAN HALEN would reunite for the first time since 1984. It has since been revealed that a health setback involving Eddie was responsible for the tour not materializing.

Eddie died last October at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, California.

The iconic VAN HALEN axeman passed away from complications due to cancer, his son confirmed.
























View this post on Instagram









































A post shared by Van Hagar / Other Half (@vanhagarotherhalf)

QUEEN, METALLICA, AC/DC, TOOL, KISS and AEROSMITH are among the hard rock and heavy metal artists who have made Billboard's list of highest-paid musicians of 2020.

For QUEEN's No. 7 place at the summit, Billboard estimates the legendary band made $13.2 million, including $5.5 million from streaming, $5.3 million from sales and $2.4 million from publishing. AC/DC is in the 13th place with $10.1 million after streaming, sales and publishing earned them $4.3 million, $4 million and $1.8 million respectively. METALLICA raked in $9 million in 2020, $3.9 million of which came from streaming, $3.7 million from sales and $1.4 million from publishing, to come in at No. 18.

TOOL ranked No. 32, and $4.2 million of the band's total $6.17 million income came from touring — an unusually large percentage compared to other artists, and one they amassed with ticket sales for shows that took place before the COVID-19 outbreak.

Revenue from merchandising, synchronization or livestream gigs was not included.

Billboard's U.S. Money Makers: The Top Paid Musicians Of 2020

No. 7: QUEEN ($13.2 million)

Streaming: $5.5M

Sales: $5.3M

Publishing: $2.4M

Touring: $0

No. 13 AC/DC ($10.1 million)

Streaming: $4.3M

Sales: $4M

Publishing: $1.8M

Touring: $0

No. 18 METALLICA ($9 million)

Streaming: $3.9M

Sales: $3.7M

Publishing: $1.4M

Touring: $0

No. 20 PINK FLOYD ($8.8 million)

Streaming: $3.2M

Sales: $4.3M

Publishing: $1.3M

Touring: $0

No. 32 TOOL ($6.17 million)

Streaming: $823.4K

Sales: $557K

Publishing: $611K

Touring: $4.2M

No. 33 KISS ($6 million)

Streaming: $431K

Sales: $348K

Publishing: $194.5K

Touring: $5M

No. 34 THE ROLLING STONES ($5.69 million)

Streaming: $2.97M

Sales: $1.8M

Publishing: $1.17M

Touring: $0

No. 40 AEROSMITH ($5.35 million)

Streaming: $1.33M

Sales: $564K

Publishing: $840K

Touring: $2.7M

QUEEN remains the 38th biggest artist on Spotify today, with over 37.6 million monthly listeners — more than Kanye West, Beyoncé, THE BEATLES and Jay-Z.

According to the IFPI, QUEEN was the world's fifth biggest revenue-generating recording artist of 2019, and the sixth biggest in 2

Death metal band Inert join forces with Dirk Verbeuren (Megadeth, Cadaver, Blood From My Soul) and Per Eriksson (ex-Katatonia, ex-Bloodbath) in a single to raise funds towards the fight against COVID-19 within the project Metal Against Coronavirus.

Moreover, the song was mixed by producer David Castillo (Opeth, Katatonia, Bloodbath, Leprous), and mastered at Fascination Street Studios by Tony Lindberg. Guitars reamped by Phil Pluskota at Sonic Assault Studios.

A lyric video created by Ingo Spörl can be seen below. All funds raised will go towards the fight against COVID-19. The song can be purchased for 1$ here.




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

Indiana rockers The Protest have premiered their new single and video for “Show Up To The Showdown” through BraveWords!

The band comments on the song:

“To win a battle you have to show up. When we are faced with daunting obstacles we have two options: Run in fear or stand our ground and ‘Show Up’ to take them head on. Life can be terrifying, especially lately, but when we realize we have been given the strength inside to face them it's so empowering. Our courage can inspire others and be a light. 

“When writing new music we wanted to do something different. Everything about ‘Show Up to the Showdown’ is arena rock. We grew up on arena rock. If it wasn't for artists like Def Leppard and KISS we wouldn't have been inspired to play rock music. We embraced the sound completely with Show Up to the Showdown and we hope the song inspires people!”

The Protest is made up of four lifelong best friends from the middle of Indiana. This melodic rock n' roll infused metal band takes you away from the gloom persona of hard rock and brings a fun energetic flare of life in contrast to anything in the music scene thus far. Music has been a passion shared between them for quite some time, but with no real purpose, no real inspiration to draw from. It wasn’t until they put down their plans and followed God’s that they realized that they could make an impact on people through their music. 

Since then, The Protest has gone through years of touring, recording, struggles, failures, and victories to find that they are even more passionate about reaching others with the love that Christ has shown them. Now, as they are preparing for the release of their third album, they are more focused than ever to reach audiences with the love and hope that Christ has shown them. Over the years, The Protest has been blessed to tour the country and share the stage with many bands such as Seventh Day Slumber, Fireflight, The Letter Black, Nine Lashes, Decyfer Down, and many more.




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

Stephen Pearcy has once again floated the possibility of the surviving members of the classic RATT lineup reuniting to play live shows or make a new studio album.

Pearcy made the comments three months after he was joined by his former bandmate Bobby Blotzer during the RATT singer's livestream concert from the world-famous Whisky A Go Go on the Sunset Strip.

Asked in a new interview with "The Jeremy White Podcast" where the prospect of a classic RATT reunion stands at the moment, Pearcy said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Bobby came out and did the jam. I invited him out. You can call it 'instigate,' being the instigator, but why not? I've gotta be clear — I hate bullshitting our audience, thinking this [latest lineup of RATT] is RATT. No disrespect to these other players coming and going, but it's getting kind of silly. I'd rather be out doing my own thing until things come to order or we can take a step backwards and forwards and see what you've got. Bobby's the swing, Juan [Croucier, RATT bassist] is Juan, and Warren [DeMartini, RATT guitarist] is definitely DeMartini, man. And rest in peace, Robbin [Crosby, late RATT guitarist]; no matter who tries to replace him, it ain't never gonna fucking happen. So be it.

"So, anyway, that's where it's at," he added. "Bobby came and jammed out. And he might sit in for a couple of shows. We'll see what happens. I'm opening the door… It's not being the good guy — believe me — it's being the business-minded guy and having some respect for the legacy we leave. Because you know what? I'm on to other adventures in life. I love being on stage and this and that… I'll give it a few more years of having at it and enjoying myself when I want — not because I have to. I don't have to. I just have a little bit more respect and integrity for my band RATT. And that's about it."

Pearcy and Croucier are the sole remaining original members in RATT's current lineup, which made its live debut in July 2018 in Mulvane, Kansas. Joining them in the band are drummer Pete Holmes (BLACK 'N BLUE, RATT'S JUAN CROUCIER) and guitarists Jordan Ziff (Marty Friedman) and Frankie Lindia (David Lee Roth).

RATT — featuring Pearcy, Croucier and DeMartini — played a number of shows in 2017 after reforming a year earlier in the midst of a highly publicized legal battle with Blotzer over the rights to the RATT name. They were joined at the gigs by guitarist Carlos Cavazo, who played on "Infestation", and drummer Jimmy DeGrasso, who previously played with Y&T, WHITE LION and MEGADETH, among others.

METALLICA has teamed up with Vans to honor the upcoming 30th anniversary of the band's self-titled album, better known as the "Black Album," with a limited-edition Sk8-Hi and Classic Slip-On.

Inspired by the band's never-ending pursuit of going faster, louder and "Off The Wall", the Vans x Metallica footwear assortment features artwork inspired by METALLICA and designed by iconic METALLICA artist Pushead and will be sold exclusively via Vans Family on July 25 at 9 p.m. PST and on Metallica.com on July 26 at 9 a.m. PST.

METALLICA's self-titled, fifth studio album was originally released in August of 1991 and has sold over 30 million copies worldwide and spent over 580 consecutive weeks atop the music charts. Vans and METALLICA have been long-time partners and collaborators, the band having performed at House Of Vans London in 2016 and released three previous footwear and apparel collaborations over the last decade. This July, METALLICA and Vans once again join forces to release two footwear silhouettes, which feature artwork created by Pushead, who has provided iconic imagery and artwork for the band's tour books, t-shirts and stages since 1986. Pushead's "Sad But True" design is synonymous with the entire "Black Album" era; his twin skulls traveled the world, displayed on banners on each side of the stage while METALLICA performed.

The latest Vans x Metallica release showcases Pushead's enigmatic facing skulls across the quarter panels of the Sk8-Hi as well as the opposing sides of each Classic Slip-On. Each design showcases a graphic blue shatter design and silver METALLICA branding around the sidewall of Sk8-Hi and stop the upper of the Slip-On. Each pair is finished with METALLICA printed on the heel stay.

During an appearance on the latest episode of the "In The Trenches with Ryan Roxie" video podcast, SKID ROW bassist Rachel Bolan spoke about the progress of the recording sessions for the band's long-awaited new album. He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "We're fortunate enough to work with a producer named Nick Raskulinecz. And I'm sure, unless you live under a rock, that you've heard something that he's produced. He's produced a couple of FOO FIGHTERS records, STONE SOUR, HALESTORM, EVANESCENCE, RUSH, ALICE IN CHAINS… He's got a pretty impressive track record. And we're doing the record with him here in Nashville. He's actually my neighbor.

"He has done something with us that is just incredible," he continued. "And the way he described it [is] he grew up listening to us. I mean, grew up — we're not that big of an age difference — about 10 years, I guess. But he listened to us. You know when you listen to a band, you can listen to their first album and you'll hear that band that way for the rest of your life. And then the band kind of strays away because that album was part of them but it doesn't stay as close to their heart. And I don't mean that in a bad way; it's just that you go and you just get further and further away from your roots. That said, he has brought us back there. He took our songs… He listened to stuff, and I'd bring a song in, or Snake [guitarist Dave Sabo] and I would bring a song in, and we'd be, like, 'Man, this song is awesome.' And he'd listen to it and he goes, 'It's not SKID ROW. It doesn't sound like SKID ROW.' And we're, like, 'Man, we are SKID ROW. What the hell?' [Laughs]"

Bolan added: "He's so creative. Right from pre-production, he'd stand in front of each guy… His whole process is… It made me feel like I'm a better bass player now. Because he's, like, 'Man, you don't play stuff like that. That's not how you play.' And I'm, like, 'Wow. He's right. I got away from the way I used to think.' And he did it with each guy… He just kind of went in there and gutted everything and then put it back in. And not, like, 'This is horrible.' He was just, like, 'Here, man. Let's put this over here,' this and that, and just switched it. He was like a surgeon. And he's so creative. Just listening to him, all these ideas just keep coming out. And I'm trying to keep up with him… So, him doing that really made us take what were good songs and build them into really great bodies of work. And, as you can tell, I'm very excited about it. And we all are."

This past March, Sabo spoke to the "Behind The Vinyl" podcast about SKID ROW's collaboration with Raskulinecz after previously working several times with Michael Wagener, who also helmed the group's 1989 self-titled debut and 1991's "Slave To The Grind". "We wrote a bunch of new songs, and Michael's taking a breather," he explained. "Nick had expressed an interest to work with us. Rachel's become really good friends with him, living down there in Nashville. And he's, like, 'Let's do some stuff together.' Obviously, his reputation precedes him; he's made some great records. And he has a great excitement about working on some of our new music."

SKID ROW's new LP will mark its first release with South African-born, British-based vocalist ZP Theart (DRAGONFORCE, TANK, I AM I), who joined the band in 2016 following the departure of Tony Harnell (TNT, STARBREAKER).

Unlike 2014's "Rise Of The Damnation Army - United World Rebellion: Chapter Two" and 2013's "United World Rebellion: Chapter One", SKID ROW's forthcoming release will be a full-length record.

SKID ROW previously collaborated with several outside songwriters on its new material, including Corey Taylor (SLIPKNOT, STONE SOUR) and Lzzy Hale and Joe Hottinger of HALESTORM, a group that covered the title track of "Slave To The Grind" on its "ReAniMate: The CoVeRs eP" in 2011. SKID ROW also worked with songwriter-for-hire Marti Frederiksen, who has previously collaborated with AEROSMITH, DEF LEPPARD, Jonny Lang and Sheryl Crow.

SKID ROW's 2020 "The Big Rock Summer Tour", also featuring RATT, CINDERELLA's Tom Keifer and SLAUGHTER, was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic that is sweeping the globe.

Photo by: Chuck Arland

In a new interview with United Rock Nations, legendary Swedish guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen was asked if he ever listens to his old albums for inspiration when he is composing music. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Never. Never. In fact, what I do is I deliberately don't listen to music at all. I don't listen to anything. Especially when I'm in a composing mode, which is actually pretty much all the time, because every time I pick up a guitar — or even when I don't have a guitar in my hand — I compose. And I don't like to be even inadvertently influenced by anything. So I certainly don't care about what's in or what's trendy, and I never did. And I don't consider listening to my old stuff. I don't wanna do that either. That was then; this is now. I never look back.'

He continued: "Since I've been playing for such a long time, I've developed the ability to… I can write on demand. If you want me to write something, I can do that for you. If you want me to write a country and western song, call back in 10 minutes; I've got one for you. But that type of writing is not what I'm searching for. I'm searching for the real, honest, spontaneous melodies and themes and arpeggios that come to me out of the blue, basically. So when I improvise on the instrument, things come out, and I go, 'Wow,' and I run up to the studio and I record it to have it documented, so to speak. Or if I'm really inspired, I actually record the whole thing; like, it's almost finished right there and then. That's what's so exciting to me. I can't really describe when this happens. This only happens when it happens. So you have to be there and capture it and make it yours."

Yngwie's new album, "Parabellum", will be released on July 23 via Music Theories Recordings/Mascot Label Group. Only four of the songs on the LP feature vocals. The album title is Latin, translating as "Prepare For War".

After working with some of the top hard singers of the past four decades, Yngwie now handles much of the lead vocals himself in his own band, backed by a lineup that includes keyboardist Nick Marino, bassist/vocalist Ralph Ciavolino and drummer Brian Wilson.

Last month, Yngwie announced a month-long fall 2021 U.S. tour. Support on the trek will come from former MARILYN MANSON and current ROB ZOMBIE guitarist John 5.

Mascot Records / Mascot Label Group has signed Any Given Sin. The label will engage immediately, supporting the band’s current single “The Way I Say Goodbye” which is rising up the rock charts. The accompanying video for the song can be seen below.

Multiple elements converge to strengthen every bond. Four distinct personalities sharpen Any Given Sin’s edge. The Maryland / Virginia based quartet – Victor Richie (vocals), Mike Conner (guitar), Rich Stevenson (bass) and Mike Showalter (drums) infuse metal, hard rock, and alternative into a dark, dynamic and deep signature style of their own. Amassing nearly 10 million streams and 2 million YouTube views independently, alongside multiple #1 singles on SiriusXM Octane attracted the attention of Mascot Records / Mascot Label Group.

President, Mascot Label Group North America, Ron Burman offers, “I really liked Any Given Sin’s songs. They rock, have great melodies and big hooks that stick in your head. I had been watching them for over a year, and after hearing several of them on Octane, and their Big Un’s show, I was convinced the band had what it took for us to dive in and partner up. They have a great DIY spirit and have achieved a lot on their own. Looking forward to making a great record with them!”

Any Given Sin shares, “Good music is the result of a strong partnership, passion and hard work. We are honored to be welcomed into the Mascot family.”

Stream / download “The Way I Say Goodbye” now at this location.

 




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

Legendary YES vocalist/songwriter, Jon Anderson, will be touring with The Paul Green Rock Academy starting July 30. Prior to hitting the road, a promo video for "Heart Of The Sunrise", which originally appeared on 1971's Fragile, has been issued:

This Jon Anderson with The Paul Green Rock Academy tour is a resumption of the tradition started in 2005 when Jon toured with the original School Of Rock all-stars. These shows, over 30 in total between 2006-2008, were nothing short of magical, and now Jon Anderson returns to continue that magic with a set of YES classics, deep cuts, mash ups, and solo works, all with lush arrangements featuring choral singing, horns, and all the other benefits of having a backing band of 25 young musicians.

Says Jon: "The one thing about creating music with young musicians and singers is the adventure of it all. I sang and toured with the Paul Green School Of Rock many years ago... It was a miracle for me to join in with their young energy... And learn from them. Now here we are with The Paul Green Rock Academy... And again, their excitement and joy for making music really makes it all worthwhile. Plus they are a really talented bunch. There is a future in music, and these young souls prove it every time i hear them sing and play... I know you will have a wonderful evening spending time with the future of rock 'n' roll. Many blessings..."

Tour dates:

July
30 - Patchogue Theater - Patchogue, NY

August
1 - Blue Ocean Music Hall - Salisbury, MA
3 - Rams Head on Stage - Annapolis, MD
5 - Ridgefield Playhouse - Ridgefield, CT
7 - Colonial Theatre - Phoenixville, PA
9 - Ocean City Music Pier - Ocean City, NJ
19 - Des Plaines Theatre - Des Plaines, IL
21 - Arcada Theatre - St. Charles, IL
24 - Palace Theatre - Canton, OH
27 - Paramount Theatre - Huntington, NY
28 - Stadium Theater - Woonsocket, RI

(Photo - Deborah Anderson)

 




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

Reaper Entertainment has announced the signing of the German thrash metal legends, Tankard.

In 1982, when four longhaired metal maniacs from Frankfurt am Main, Germany decided to found a band named Tankard, nobody expected them to still be going almost four decades later. Not to mention being at the top of the German thrash metal scene! But they are still alive and kicking, and throughout these years there’s barely been a blip in their path. Now, the band signed a world wide record deal with the up-and-coming label Reaper Entertainment Europe.

The band states: "We had really great and successful years with Nuclear Blast, not least because of the sensational collaboration with Florian Milz and Andy Siry. We are all the more happy to continue the success story with Flori on his own label Reaper. We expect from our new label not only full-page advertisements in all relevant daily newspapers, but also at least one placement in the Top 10 of the official German charts with our next album! Otherwise there's riots... stay heavy , thirsty and healthy!"

Flori Milz (Managing Director of Reaper Entertainment) states: "My time with Nuclear Blast probably wouldn't have been so great if we hadn't signed my favourite Hessians from Tankard at some point. A great friendship developed between me and the band. I flew along to shows in other countries as tour manager/merchandiser, was dragged to all kinds of stages by Gerre and often got lost in pubs with the guys. When I left Nuclear Blast, I set myself the goal of bringing Tankard to my own label Reaper - come what may. And I am overjoyed that this has now worked out and that we will continue to write the history of the band together. Welcome to the Reaper-Family - and now, lets get wasted!"

Tankard are going to enter the studio later this year to record the soundtrack for the 40th anniversary. More Info about the new album soon.

Even if a lot has changed over the last three decades, one thing has remained the same: Tankard are four metal maniacs from Frankfurt - authentic, loud and sometimes drunk. And this will likely stay the same for the next 40 years!

Tankard are:

Gerre (Vocals)
Andi (Guitars)
Olaf (Drums)
Frank (Bass)

(Photo - Axel Jusseits)




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

Blacktop Mojo will release their self-titled album on August 13th. The 12-track record is the band's fourth, and the follow-up to their 2019 effort, Under The Sun.  

The album was produced by longtime producer Phil Mosley and recorded in Nashville, Tennessee, as well as the band's hometown of Palestine, Texas. Today, the band premieres the video for the song "Wicked Woman". The video was directed by Dustin Dow and produced by Cuhmon Entertainment. It was filmed at River Run ATV Park in Jacksonville, Texas. 

Blacktop Mojo has revealed the artwork and tracklisting for their upcoming, self-titled fourth studio album. Pre-orders can be placed now at this location.

"Wicked Woman"
"Bed Tundy"
"Latex"
"Rewind"
"Jealousy"
"Make Believe"
"Darlin' I Won't Tell"
"Do It For The Money"
"Hold Me Down"
"Cough"
"Stratus Melancholia"
"Tail Lights"

Check out the previously released video for "Tail Lights":

Blacktop Mojo is currently on tour across The United States. Catch them live at the following shows:

July
22 - Johnson City, TN - Capones
23 - Spartanburg, SC - Ground Zero
24 - Atlanta, GA - Masquerade (Purgatory)
25 - Huntsville, AL - Sidetracks Music Hall
27 - Jackson, MS - Hal & Mal's Red Room
28 - Leesville, LA -Shooters Bar & Billiards
30 - Chickasha, OK -Legends Pub House
31 - Kansas City, MO - Headlights Bar & Grill

August
1 - Des Moines, IA -Leftys
3 - Minot, ND - The 'O' Riginal Bar & Nightclub
4 - Minneapolis, MN - Cabooze
6 - Sheboygan, WI - Kiwanis Park
7 - Fort Madison, IA - RiverfestFM
8 - Madison, WI - The Annex
10 - Cleveland, OH - The Winchester
11 - Columbus, OH - Woodlands Tavern
13 - Port Byron, IL - Port Byron Great River Tug Fest
14 - Three Rivers, MI - Abate SummerFest
15 - Joliet, IL - The Forge
17 - Nashville, TN - The End
18 - Memphis, TN - Growlers
20 - St. Louis, MO - Red Flag
21 - Hutchinson, KS - The Red Shed
22 - Lubbock, TX - Jake's

September
1 - Little Rock, AR - Stickyz Rock-n-Roll Chicken Shack
2 - Springfield, MO - Odyssey Lounge
3 - Hobart, IN - The Hobart Art Theater
4 - Oconomowoc, WI - Wisconsin Harley-Davidson
5 - Louisville, KY - Diamond Pub

 




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

CANNIBAL CORPSE frontman George "Corpsegrinder" Fisher, whose group has been the subject of much controversy over its horrifically graphic cover art and lyrical content, has told Terry "Beez" Bezer of Knotfest.com's "Mosh Talks With Beez" that there are some things he and his bandmaes won't write about. "CANNIBAL CORPSE, we pride ourselves — we don't sing about politics; we don't sing about religion. We keep out of it," he said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET).

Fisher also weighed in on people who contribute to the vitriolic tone that puts so many off engaging in public online conversations.

"My whole thing is, if you're a good person, you're a good person," he said. "If you believe in certain things politically or philosophically [or] religiously, good for you. We don't have to agree. I don't hate you for it. But some people can't let it go, and the Internet goes crazy. Everybody's posting things, 'Oh, this person is doing that, and he likes Trump,' or, 'This person is doing that, and he likes Biden.' And it's just, like, 'Oh, man.' We can't get all along right now, 'cause we're supposed to stay away from each other. But it's, like, online everyone is stir crazy and attacking each other."

CANNIBAL CORPSE's 15th studio album, "Violence Unimagined", was released on April 16 via Metal Blade Records. Erik Rutan, one of the death metal's most acclaimed guitarists who is known for his time as part of MORBID ANGEL throughout the '90s and early 2000s, as well as handling vocals/guitars for HATE ETERNAL, lent his guitar as well as production skills to the effort, which was recorded at his Mana Recording in St. Petersburg, Florida. Rutan previously produced four CANNIBAL CORPSE albums (in addition to "Violence Unimagined"), alongside the likes of GOATWHORE, SOILENT GREEN and BELPHEGOR. Filling in live on guitar since 2019, in 2020 he became a full member, contributing to the writing process.

Blues rock artist Joe Bonamassa is back with a brand-new single from his highly anticipated upcoming album, due out later this year. "Notches" exemplifies the unwavering journey Joe has experienced while taking the road less traveled, ultimately leading him to find success. A bit older in years, but wiser in knowledge earned, his new sound has a raw and vital flavor, combined with a resolute skill that can only be gained through years of perseverance and unyielding dedication. The first single arrives today as a foot-stomping, fist-pounding dose of rock mastermind that pays homage to the artist's resilient history, with an eye on the future as he continues to bend genres, break down walls and defy the odds of the music industry.

Joe belts out the blues-tinged lyrics in "Notches" with a vocal range that gets even better with each release, diving deeper into his rock capabilities as he croons the resounding chorus, "I got miles under my wheels. Notches in my walkin' cane." He takes no prisoners with his hard-hitting anthem and holds nothing back, delivering a fresh unchartered sound that isn't like anything he's done before. The cinematically excellent official music video was directed by Paul van Kan.

For recording "Notches", Bonamassa hit the studio with longtime collaborators Kevin Shirley as producer and manager/business partner Roy Weisman as executive producer. The track was mixed by Bob Clearmountain (BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN, THE ROLLING STONES, TOTO, BON JOVI) and was co-written with Charlie Starr (BLACKBERRY SMOKE). Recorded in New York City at Germano Studios/The Hit Factory the band includes Steve Mackey (bass), Lachy Doley (piano), Bunna Lawrie (didgeridoo), Bobby Summerfield (percussion), and "Late Night With David Letterman"'s Anton Fig (drums and percussion), along with Mahalia Barnes, Juanita Tippins and Prinnie Stevens on backing vocals. The fantastic artwork on this single was created by famous graphic artist Hugh Syme (RUSH, AEROSMITH, WHITESNAKE).

The lyrics allude to Joe's tenured uphill battle with the music industry. Looking back, he reflects: "Twenty years ago, I recorded a record of covers that eventually was called 'Blues Deluxe'. It was recorded at Bobby Nathan's studio in Manhattan. It captured an energy and purpose that always stuck with me as an artist…The music business is tough, very tough. Especially back in those days when major labels pulled all the strings and, in my case, all the punches."

Now, maybe more than ever, Bonamassa holds the power of controlling both his artistry and his business in both hands. With 24 No. 1 albums, yearly sold-out tours worldwide and custom annual cruises, he's a hard act to beat. Joe knows his worth, and albeit humble, he has no plans to back down now. "Notches" is a testament to his credentials. It's Joe Bonamassa at his finest, ready to rock.

"Notches" is a song that begs to be heard live in an audience, banging loud from the speakers. Luckily for fans, this month Joe heads back out on tour for 42 shows, starting on the West Coast in the U.S. at the end of this month, then traveling around the rest of the country throughout the fall season before taking the stage at sea for his sold out Keeping The Blues Alive At Sea VII cruise, sailing from Miami, Florida to Ocho Rios, Jamaica on February 21-25, 2022, by way of the Norwegian Pearl.

Photo by Eleanor Jane

Welsh metallers BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE have released "Parasite", the second single from their upcoming seventh, self-titled studio album.

"'Parasite' is an absolute rager from start to finish," the band said. "Easily one of the gnarliest tracks we've ever written. We couldn't be more stoked to finally get it out there."

"Bullet For My Valentine" follows the success of the band's last album, 2018's "Gravity", which saw the metal juggernauts' catalogue surpass 1 billion streams in the U.S. That accomplishment solidifies BULLET's hard-earned status as one of the most elite bands in the hard rock scene.

On the last cycle, BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE played its biggest shows to date, including a U.K. arena tour and a massive show at London's Alexandra Palace. But this time around, the band has taken things back to basics. "Bullet For My Valentine" is stacked with squealing solos and monstrous riffs that will delight fans — both new and old.

"I think it's the most ferocious side of BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE that I've ever known," says lead guitarist Michael "Padge" Paget. "It's time for us to put out a really angry, heavy, aggressive record. I just can't wait to grimace on stage!"

"I wanted to come out guns blazing, fucking middle fingers flying, and just go for the throat," agrees vocalist and lead guitarist Matt Tuck. "I think this is a far more aggressive, intense part of BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE. It's always been there. I've just never opened the floodgates on it. I want to take people's heads off in a metaphorical way.

"This is the beginning of BULLET 2.0. It signifies where we are right now. The music is fresh, it's aggressive, it's more visceral and passionate than it's ever been."

Tuck began writing the album in September 2019 before the coronavirus pandemic brought things screeching to a halt in early 2020. But in June 2020, Tuck and longtime producer, Carl Bown, who co-produced the band's 2015 album, "Venom", and produced and mixed "Gravity", picked up the pace again. Together, they hunkered down at Treehouse Studio in Chesterfield, where the remainder of the album was written.

Aptly self-titled, the band has triumphed, creating an album that will cement its place in the metal pantheon.

Pre-orders for BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE's seventh studio album are now live, with an instant download of "Knives" and special bundle options, including a unique clipping from the backdrop used on the band's "Venom" world tour from 2015 - 2017, t-shirts, hoodies, gold and silver cassettes, and limited vinyl.

"Bullet For My Valentine" track listing:

01. Parasite

02. Knives

03. My Reverie

04. No Happy Ever After

05. Can't Escape The Waves

06. Bastards

07. Rainbow Veins

08. Shatter

09. Paralysed

10. Death By a Thousand Cuts

BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE is:

Matt Tuck - Vocals, Rhythm Guitar

Michael "Padge" Paget - Lead Guitar

Jamie Mathias - Bass

Jason Bowld - Drums

YES — consisting of Steve Howe, Alan White, Geoff Downes, Jon Davison and Billy Sherwood — will release its new studio album, "The Quest", on October 1 via InsideOut Music/Sony Music.

Containing 11 songs — eight on the main CD with three extra tracks on a bonus CD — "The Quest" will be available on vinyl and 5.1 Blu-ray and CD, all on the day of release.

The album was produced by Howe, who said: "Much of the music was written in late 2019 with the rest in 2020. We commissioned several orchestrations to augment and enhance the overall sound of these fresh new recordings, hoping that our emphasis on melody, coupled with some expansive instrumental solo breaks, keeps up the momentum for our listeners."

"The Quest" was recorded across the globe. The sessions took place in the U.K. with Howe, Downes and Davison, while White and Sherwood got together in the studio in the U.S. "Billy Sherwood and myself did all the rhythm sections, bass and drum, in America," says White, "down in Los Angeles at Uncle Studios, where he works a lot. It helps when you've got a good place to work," Alan laughs, "and Billy's really good on the recording desk, so we got things down relatively quickly. I spent quite a while studying the music before I went down to L.A. so I was prepared."

YES has revealed the first track to be taken from the album — "The Ice Bridge". Watch the video below.

White comments: "I'm extremely proud to be a part of this music and believe the video graphics are outstanding. A collaboration of many talents coming together to produce 'The Ice Bridge'. I hope our fans/audiences will appreciate the creativity put forward. I'm pleased to share it with the world and hope everyone will enjoy the ride."

Howe adds: "'The Ice Bridge' opens the album in the dark and moody key of C minor, aided by the orchestra. The rolling bass part kicks things into gear as the vocals and guitars start a winding journey through the various structures till the breakdown happens, where ice breaking is heard."

Davison was working with Downes on "The Ice Bridge" (Davison/Downes), looking at the dangers of climate change. He explained how he sets about collaborating with his band mates.

"Usually what happens is each member is left to write their respective parts and put their stamp on things," he says. "Geoff sent me a selection of exciting and often gorgeous snippets he had created and made it clear that he wished I experiment freely and develop as needed. This in turn gave me the confidence to take on the vocal role — lyrics, vocal melody and harmony, how the vocals are presented and uniquely phrased — but all the while striving to stay faithful to Geoff's initial ideas."

"Jon's vocals are fantastic," adds Downes, "He's really come into his own as a YES vocalist. This time he's started to get the writing side together and working with the other musicians has been developmental for him. I think he's hit a rich seam on this one."

"The Quest" is also now available for pre-order on various formats, including a limited deluxe box set that features a gatefold 180g 2LP on exclusive colored vinyl, 2CD+Blu-ray digipak (featuring 5.1 mix and backing tracks), 36-page perfect bound booklet, enamel pin badge, 60x90cm poster, slipmat and hand-numbered certificate of authenticity, all house in a rigid lift-off box.

Containing 11 songs, eight on the main CD with three extra tracks on a bonus CD, "The Quest" will also be available as limited 2CD+Blu-ray artbook, 2CD digipak, gatefold 2LP+2CD and as a digital album.

"The Quest" 2CD digipak track listing:

CD1:

01. The Ice Bridge 7.01

02. Dare To Know 6.00

03. Minus The Man 5.35

04. Leave Well Alone 8.06

05. The Western Edge 4.26

06. Future Memories 5.08

07. Music To My Ears 4.41

08. A Living Island 6.52

CD2:

01. Sister Sleeping Soul 4.51

02. Mystery Tour 3.33

03. Damaged World 5.20

The cover artwork was designed and created by the band's longtime collaborator Roger Dean.

For half a century, YES has been the definitive band of the progressive music genre, the band by which all others are judged. Their groundbreaking albums of the 1970s set the standard for the genre and influenced countless others who followed in their wake.

The current lineup of YES was completed in 2015 when Sherwood replaced founder member Chris Squire, at Squire's insistence, as he bravely fought a losing battle with leukaemia. Since then, YES has concentrated on touring with their Album Series tours, each featuring a classic YES album in its entirety. During this period, YES has released three live albums, "Topographic Drama - Live Across America" (2017), "Yes Live 50" (2019) and "The Royal Affair Tour: Live In Las Vegas" (2020).

Photo credit: Gottlieb Bros

"Sword of Deliverance", the second single from ALCATRAZZ's brand new album "V", set for release October 15, can be streamed below. The LP will feature original members Jimmy Waldo and Gary Shea, along with new vocalist Doogie White (RAINBOW, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, MICHAEL SCHENKER FEST), drummer Mark Benquechea and guitarist Joe Stump.

White said: "'Sword Of Deliverance' is a mighty metal monument! A call to arms for the ALCATRAZZ collective. Loud, proud and ready!"

Both vintage and timeless, "V" treads the ALCATRAZZ textured territories of old but with renewed vigor and verve. Whether it be the choral echoes sitting inside the storming tempest which is "Nightwatch", the staunch, speedy melodic metal of "Turn Of The Wheel" or the thick, bluesy chug of "House Of Lies", there is little doubt that this ALCATRAZZ is going full-tilt with not one ounce of a shackle holding them back. In that regard, White’s supreme vocal work on all 12 tracks serves as the catalyst for their creative synergy, and not only that, his supremely positive energy brings the band closer than it has been since, well, 1986.

Produced by Giles Lavery and Jimmy Waldo, and mixed by Andy Haller (ELTON JOHN, JOE COCKER, SYSTEM OF A DOWN), "V" also includes guest appearances from SAXON's Nigel Glockler (drums on "Guardian Angel" and "Blackheart"), TANK's Cliff Evans (bass on "Grace Of God") and Donnie Van Stavern of RIOT (bass on "Guardian Angel", "Nightwatch" and "Target"), underscoring how perennially popular ALCATRAZZ's music remains with their peers.

And just in case you’re wondering what "V" stands for? ALCATRAZZ's fifth studio album, of course… but it also stands just as resolutely for victory; the victory that sees ALCATRAZZ 2021 stronger than ever despite all the odds.

Track listing:

01. Guardian Angel

02. Nightwatch

03. Sword Of Deliverance

04. Turn Of The Wheel

05. Blackheart

06. Grace Of God

07. Return To Nevermore

08. Target

09. Maybe Tomorrow

10. House Of Lies

11. Alice's Eyes

12. Dark Day For My Soul

Last month, ALCATRAZZ released "Turn Of The Wheel", which arrived six months after Waldo, Stump, Shea and Benquechea issued a statement saying that would be joined by White for all their 2021 touring. Just a month earlier, original ALCATRAZZ singer Graham Bonnet said that he was "no longer affiliated" with ALCATRAZZ's manager Giles Lavery." At the time, the other ALCATRAZZ members shot back, saying that they were "still represented" by Lavery and blasting Bonnet for "dictat[ing] to us who our collective or individual manager may or may not be."

Not long after, Bonnet released a statement via his social media in which he said that he "will still be recording and performing with ALCATRAZZ. I am the founder and main songwriter and have been since the band's inception in '83." He added that he will "be announcing the incredible new ALCATRAZZ lineup in the spring" and promised to take the new band on the road.

Bonnet's comments naturally created confusion within ALCATRAZZ's fan base, prompting him to issue a follow-up statement explaining his position.

Graham wrote: "When my manager resigned in June, I asked the band collectively if they would be interested in touring to support the new album. They informed me that they were only interested in touring if my former manager was included. No one was 'fired,' we just parted ways. As that signaled the end of this version of ALCATRAZZ, I immediately began to seek new players for yet another new ALCATRAZZ line-up.

"I have performed with other versions of ALCATRAZZ since the demise of the original band, this was just the first time I played with any original members and the first time I recorded using the name ALCATRAZZ. The day my manager resigned, he also removed me as admin of the 'Graham Bonnet and ALCATRAZZ' band FB page so I was unable to let fans know what was happening until recently when FB returned my page.

"The first misunderstanding happened when I posted on the band page that 'Graham Bonnet and ALCATRAZZ' were no longer associated with Giles Lavery management. When I said that, I wasn't referring to the recent line-up. They had already informed me months earlier that they would only tour with my former manager and to me, that meant that they had quit. My reference was to my new version of ALCATRAZZ. I have no plans to relinquish the name ALCATRAZZ and I expect that they don't either. This is an old story, bands break up and there becomes two versions. I'm not bothered by it. I've toured with Doogie the past few years with [MICHAEL] SCHENKER FEST and he is a good friend and a damn fine performer. In my opinion, there is no such thing as too much music. People can listen to one or the other or both versions and choose whatever they like. I'm not interested in squabbling over a name, I'd rather just make music."

When Waldo, Stump, Shea and Benquechea announced that they were working with White, they vowed to put on "an explosive live show featuring all of the ALCATRAZZ classics that you know, plus added selections from Doogie's work with RAINBOW and MICHAEL SCHENKER FEST/TEMPLE OF ROCK."

Waldo, Stump, Shea and Benquechea's version of ALCATRAZZ has launched a Facebook page where they will be posting all their news going forward.

Legendary death metal maniacs, Aborted, present their second unholy single, “Drag Me To Hell”, off their forthcoming album ManiaCult, which will be released worldwide on September 10 via Century Media Records.

The band comments: “Alright alright! It's good old Jack Burton here, and he's got one thing to say: get ready for the boom stick! We have such sights to show you - or rather sounds to play you - with the next single from ManiaCult, 'Drag Me To Hell'. Trust me, you're going to want to click that button and spread it before Wayland comes for YOU! We also welcome Filip Danielsson of Humanity’s Last Breath to the ManiaCult via a killer guest spot. Considering Wayland’s goal is the end of humanity, we’d say Filip’s support is a great harbinger…”

Aborted are shapeshifters, evolving from blazing deathgrind to groovier fare before settling into a technical approach on death metal. On 11th album ManiaCult, they split the difference between the over-the-top shred of TerrorVision and the dripping dark atmosphere achieved on follow-up La Grande Mascarade. That EP was their first as the current four-piece lineup, rounded out by drummer Ken Bedene, guitarist Ian Jekelis and bassist Stefano Franceschini.

ManiaCult will be officially released on Septenber 10 and will be available in the following formats:

- CD Jewelcase – all outlets
- Gatefold black LP+CD & Poster – all outlets
- Gatefold ultra clear LP+CD & Poster – Bandshop
- Gatefold neon green LP+CD & Poster - Bandshop (200 Units)
- Gatefold neon yellow LP+CD & Poster - EMP (300 Units)
- Gatefold opaque hot pinkLP+CD & Poster - Nuclear Blast (300 Units)

Disclaimer: Due to the high demand for vinyl manufacturing, production times are subject to possible delay. Everything will be done to ensure that we meet the original deadlines, and product is delivered as promised. However, customers are advised that the potential exists for delays beyond our control.

The pre-sale has officially started - so be fast and grab your copy here. The band will also offer a strictly limited amount of liquid filled vinyl and their own exclusive action figure on their band shop. Check out their band shop here.

Tracklisting:

"Verderf"
"ManiaCult"
"Impetus Odi"
"Portal To Vacuity"
"Dementophobia"
"A Vulgar Quagmire"
"Verbolgen"
"Ceremonial Ineptitude"
"Drag Me To Hell"
"Grotesque"
"I Prediletti: The Folly Of The Gods"

"Impetus Odi" video:




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

On November 5th, blackgaze masters MØL return with their second studio album, Diorama, the group’s first for their new label Nuclear Blast Records. Recorded and mixed by Tue Madsen (Gojira, Meshuggah, Heaven Shall Burn) and graced by a cover artwork designed by Jon Gotlev, Diorama sees the band further developing its captivating, aggressive sound. With swirling guitars and hissing vocals blended into a dreamy ambience of shoegaze, the highflyers from Aarhus, Denmark, will deliver a crushing yet otherworldly follow-up to their debut album, Jord, from 2018.

Today, MØL unveils "Photophobic", the first single off the band's anticipated sophomore studio album, which comes with a haunting music video directed by Kasper Jensen / M2 Film, so brace yourself for a ferocious yet melodic blackgaze monument.

"'Photophobic' is centered around denial and self-deception. Fear of exposure of one’s past", vocalist Kim Song Sternkopf explains. "The song encapsulates the dread of forcefully venturing through the painful but nonetheless important places of one self and your history.”

Nicolai Busse Bladt adds: "Writing our debut, Jord, seemed like the culmination of our first two EPs. We had achieved a sound and an approach to creating music that is distinctly ours. Diorama is both refinement and exploration. I wanted to refine our sound, melodies, and compositions, but also push the boundaries of our music and explore new paths and things we haven’t done before. Our approach to music has never been restricted by any dogmas and we’re stalwart believers in eclecticism."

Stream or download "Photophobic" on the platform of your choice here.

Further info about the eight new tracks of the album will follow soon and the pre-order for Diorama will start shortly.

Inspired by bands like My Bloody Valentine, Slowdive, Drop Nineteens, Lantlôs and Alcest, MØL released their self-titled debut EP back in 2014. A year later they perfected their sound with their second EP "II", produced by Jacob Bredahl and released in 2015. Both EPs were well received and drove them on to do some emphatic live shows which were praised by press. In 2018, MØL made an international breakthrough signing with Holy Roar Records (UK) who released their debut album 'Jord' to critical acclaim. The record was recorded at Grapehouse Studios and mixed and mastered by Chris Kreutzfeldt.  The album was also released as an instrumental version and in 2019, the band re-released their two first EPs, remastered for CD and vinyl.




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

German hard rock guitar wizard, Axel Rudi Pell, has released a new digital single for the song "She's A Lady". The song is taken from the upcoming covers album, Diamonds Unlocked II.

Axel Rudi Pell: "Written by Paul Anka, but best known by Tom Jones. Don't know why, but this song follows me from the 1970s on. Our version starts as a ballad and continues as a punchy rock track."

Diamonds Unlocked II will be released on July 30 via Steamhammer/SPV. The successor to last year’s  Sign Of The Times is the follow-up to his 2007 cover recording Diamonds Unlocked. Pell’s carefully considered decision not to release brand-new material for the first time in almost 15 years is mainly based on the ongoing pandemic and current restrictions on live concerts. The 61-year-old explains that, “it makes no sense at all to put out new songs that we will not be able to perform live.”

Axel Rudi Pell had been flirting with the concept of Diamonds Unlocked II for two or three years, and he’s also aware of the vast number of cover versions currently floating on the Internet, which he sees as a challenge. Of course it depends on the selection and variety of the material, but first and foremost it is the transformation of each individual track that matters. The result is so outstanding that he is justly proud of his latest offering. “Without patting myself on the back too loudly – this is an album worth listening to from start to finish.” Instead of delivering every single note so that it sounds exactly like the original, a cover album should, above all, be fun. And entertain and inspire the listener, an audio algorithm which makes you get out the original versions or the whole back catalogue of the artists presented. In this respect, Diamonds Unlocked II is an offer that no self-respecting hard rock fan can refuse.

Diamonds Unlocked II will be released in the following configurations:

- DigiPak incl. poster
- 2LP Gatefold, 140 g, black vinyl, printed inner sleeves
- Download / Streaming

Pre-order here.

- 2LP Gatefold exclusive coloured editions only at the Napalm shop

Pre-order here.

- Exclusive CD/LP Bundle with a T-shirt only at the Steamhammer shop

Pre-order here.

Tracklisting:

"Der Schwarze Abt (Intro)
"There’s Only One Way To Rock" (original by Sammy Hagar)
"Lady Of The Lake" (original by Rainbow)
"She’s A Lady" (original by Paul Anka)
"Black Cat Woman" (original by Geordie)
"Room With A View" (original by Tony Carey)
"Sarah (You Take My Breath Away)" (original by Chris Norman)
"Rock N’ Roll Queen" (original by The Subways)
"Paint It Black" (original by the Rolling Stones)
"I Put A Spell On You" (original by Screamin' Jay Hawkins)
"Eagle" (original by Abba)  

"There’s Only One Way To Rock" lyric video:

Lineup:

Johnny Gioeli - Lead and Backing Vocals
Axel Rudi Pell - Lead and Rhythm Guitars
Ferdy Doernberg - Keyboards
Volker Krawczak - Bass
Bobby Rondinelli - Drums




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

Warkings Warriors beware! The mighty kings return to the battlefield, armed with glorious weapons made of pure heavy metal - the time for Revolution has come.

The mighty Tribune raises his voice to tell the story of “Spartacus”, the legendary Gladiator who led the major slave uprising against the Roman Empire. Joined by none other than The Lost Lord (a.k.a. Chris Harms) the Warkings forged their weapons and call for Revolution with yet another uptempo banger that will be stuck in the heads of all warriors forever

The Tribune on “Spartacus”: “Some call him hero, some call him a rebel…and we tell his story. With the help of the mighty Lost Lord. Die for Spartacus.”

Chris Harms a.k.a The Lost Lord adds: "There are moments when I realize that there is a power metal passion slumbering in me that never wanted to fit into any of my bands and projects. I was very grateful when the four gladiators of heavy metal came to me and gave me the chance to refine one of their songs as The Lost Lord. “Spartacus” is a monumental uptempo power machine that I enjoyed immensely. I look forward to performing the song live at some point - with sandals and a helmet, of course!"

 Get ready for Revolution and watch the new lyric video for “Spartacus”:

The third part of the Warkings saga will be unleashed on August 20 via Napalm Records, so sharpen your weapons and join the Warkings Revolution.

After their rebirth and the fight against the armies of the underworld, it's time for Revolution under the flag of the Warkings. The four ancient kings, a Roman Tribune, a wild Viking, a noble Crusader and a martial Spartan, raise the red flag and gather their warriors for the next battle.

The Viking on the new album: “The time has come, the world needs a Revolution. Raise your banners, fly our colors and join us on our way. We are the fire!”

Revolution will be available in the following formats:

- Digital album
- 1 CD Digipack
- 1 LP Gatefold Black Vinyl
- Die Hard Edition: 1 LP Gatefold Marbled Crystal Clear & Sky - Blue Vinyl with Slipmat (strictly limited to 300)
- Deluxe Box, including 1 CD Digipack, leather wristband, exclusive Lanyard & pass, 4 Autograph cards and a special signed autograph card in every 5th Box (strictly limited to 500)

Pre-order here.

Tracklisting:

"We Are The Fire"
"Sparta - Part II"
"Fight"
"Spartacus"
"Kill For The King"
"Deus lo Vult"
"Ave Roma"
"Ragnar"
"By The Blade"
"Where Dreams Die"

"Fight" video:

Warkings are:

Tribune - Vocals
Crusader - Guitars
Spartan - Drums
Viking - Bass

(Photo - Schwaighofer Art)




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

Hookers & Blow, the now legendary project formed by longtime Guns N' Roses keyboardist Dizzy Reed and Quiet Riot guitarist Alex Grossi, release their debut album today (July 23rd). After teasing their fanbase by releasing five singles in the lead up, they have released their self-titled debut covers album digitally, with CD and vinyl to be released on August 13th via Golden Robot Records.

Pick up the album here.

Tracklisting:

"Rocks Off" - The Rolling Stones
"Shakin'" - Eddie Money
"Trampled Underfoot" (Feat. Frankie Banali) - Led Zeppelin
"Ziggy Stardust" - David Bowie
"The Winner Loses" - Body Count
"Time Of The Season" - The Zombies
"American Girl" - Tom Petty
"Godzilla (Feat. The Okai Sisters)" - Blue Oyster Cult
"You Gotta Fight For Your Right (To Party)" - The Beastie Boys
"Under My Thumb" - The Rolling Stones
"No Quarter" (Feat. Frankie Banali) - Led Zeppelin
"Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting"  - Elton John

"Time Of The Season":

"Shakin'":

"Rocks Off":

"Ziggy Stardust":

"Trampled Underfoot":

In addition to Reed and Grossi, Hookers & Blow's current lineup includes Johnny Kelly (Danzig, Type O Negative), Mike Duda (W.A.S.P.), and Nadja Reed.




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

With Solipschism, Debemur Morti Productions announce the release of The Amenta's new two-track-EP following the recently unleashed comeback album. Combining dank, dub-inflected verse with grainy distortion bursts and a coda that rides a tribal rhythm into the void, the title track "Solipschism" can musically be seen as a missing key to the puzzle of Revelator.

Composer and keyboard player Timothy Pope narrates about the birth of these tracks: "'Solipschism' was intended to be on Revelator right up until it came the time to working out the tracklisting. It was completely recorded and mixed at the same time as all the other tracks of the album. But assembling a track order is a process of trial and error, trying to find the best way to fit songs together so that they are complementary to each other. Sometimes a track which is excellent in a standalone form just does not fit when you come to assemble the full work. Adding 'Solipschism' to the album would have completely thrown out the balance so, unfortunately, we made the decision to cut it. However, we always liked the song and we wanted to give it a life of its own.

'Labourinth' was another track that we had written around the same time. We have always liked having instrumentals and strange ambient moments on our album (inspired in part by Morbid Angel, Akercocke, and so forth) so we had created 4 or 5 of these tracks as potential songs for the album. Again, when collating all the tracks for the album, it seemed like the track 'Wonderlost' fit Revelator best, so we kept the other tracks in reserve. 'Labourinth' holds one key to the lyrical ideas on Revelator in its musical form, while 'Solipschism' holds more within its lyrics. There are certain ideas that are repeated across the main album in more opaque ways but are at their clearest on Solipschism. Together, the tracks offer some important clues to the album, and it made sense to pair them together for this release."

Solipschism was recorded at the band's N0N studios, AAA Recording studios (drums) as well as the Violent Voice studios (vocals). The mastering was done by Maor Appelbaum (Faith No More, Sepultura), while The Amenta's Erik Miehs and Timothy Pope took care of the mixing process.

The cover artwork is a detail of the 3D model created by Metastazis (Morbid Angel, Behemoth) for the original Revelator artwork. Sam Dishington is responsible for the layout and the design.

Solipschism will be released on vinyl on August 20th. Pre-orders for the 7'' are possible via the label's EU, US, and Bandcamp shops.

 




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

Progressive heavy metal vehicle, Interloper, have released a drum playthrough video for "The Wishing Well", a track from their debut full-length, Search Party, which was released in June via Nuclear Blast Records. Order the album here, and watch the new clip below:

The deep cohesiveness of Interloper’s writing process for Search Party allowed for a creative project with no real boundaries or restrictions. The album was produced by the band and Joey Virrueta. Drums were recorded at Big Bad Sound LA by Jack Ruley and Zach Fisher, with the mixing and mastering completed once more by Andrew’s brother Joey Virrueta.

The album artwork was created by Caelan Stokkermans.

Tracklisting:

“Pathkeeper”
“Bound To Fall”
“Moonlight”
“Dreamlands”
“Drift”
“Search Party”
“The Wishing Well”
“Idle Years”
“Thank Cheshire”
“Baring Teeth”
“Rio” (Duran Duran cover)

"Search Party" video:

“Drift” video:




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

Long Shadows Dawn is a new musical alliance featuring Scottish vocalist Doogie White (Rainbow, Michael Schenker Fest) together with Swedish guitarist Emil Norberg (Persuader). The band’s debut album, Isle Of Wrath, will be released on August 6. Listen to the song "Deal With The Preacher" below, and pre-order/save Long Shadows Dawn here.

Doogie and Emil have crafted an amazing hard rock record which invokes memories of the classic ‘80s era, but think more what the well loved ‘70s bands were doing in that era versus the bands that had just been introduced to the public eye then. In other words, classic rock influences which lead to a timeless hard rock vibe. Serafino Perugino, President of Frontiers Records, had a vision of hearing Doogie sing songs in the style of Rainbow, like Doogie actually did with the band for a few years, and pairing him with Emil, a lifelong Rainbow fan, seemed only logical.

"As a big fan of the line of heritage from Deep Purple to Rainbow onwards to what Yngwie Malmsteen explored with that basic sound, I tried to tap into what made me love those albums growing up. Although impossible to copy, I took a shot at making my own interpretation of the sound of what I think are the best rock albums to date in my opinion," says Emil Norberg.

"I think working on this first Long Shadows Dawn album, something new and exciting, helped me get through the lockdown pretty much unscathed. Emil and I had no fixed plan other than to write killer tunes. We went out on a musical limb on some songs taking a bold view of the future and respectfully pulling from the well of the past. Lyrically it needed to be dark, but hopeful. Sad, but uplifting. I think we managed that. I hope it touches people’s spirits," says Doogie White.

Doogie White first came to prominence when he was asked to audition for the legendary Rainbow, subsequently joining the band in 1994 and releasing the album Stranger In Us All. Since then, he has worked with Cornerstone (a band he put together with former Royal Hunt member Steen Mogesen), Yngwie Malmesteen’s Rising Force, Tank, and, more recently, Michael Schenker Fest and Alcatrazz. His vocal range is rich and distinctive and he is certainly one of the great rock vocalists of his generation.

Emil Norberg cut his teeth playing very aggressive power metal and building the band Persuader, who have released five critically acclaimed albums from 2000 to 2020. Long Shadows Dawn is Norberg’s first foray into production outside of Persuader and channels his instinctive Blackmore influences, which he has been developing steadily during the years.

An absolute gem of an album has been born in Long Shadows Dawn's Isle Of Wrath with the pairing of these two talents.

Tracklisting:

"Deal With The Preacher"
"Raging Silence"
"On Wings Of Angels"
"Star Riders"
"Hell Hath No Fury"
"Master Of Illusion"
"Hallelujah Brother"
"Steeltown"
"Never Wrote A Love Song"
"Where Will You Run To?"
"We Don’t Shoot Our Wounded"

"Deal With The Preacher":

"Raging Silence":

"Master Of Illusion" video:




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

Hard rock band, The Lonely Ones, have released the official music video for their new single, "Gettin' High". Watch below.

"We’ve seen the opioid crisis ravage the world and unfortunately every single person in America has been touched by it in some way. Either with our own struggles or people very close to us. It’s a national emergency and the lyrics describe one of many experiences I’ve had with this drug taking away people I cared very deeply about," says Marty McCoy, the band's vocalist/guitarist.

Buy/stream the single here.

The Lonely Ones will be on tour for the rest of the year in support of the new single.

The Lonely Ones are:

Marty McCoy - guitar / vocals
Tommy Johnson - drums
Jymmy Tolland - bass / vocals
Jake Earley - guitar / vocals




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

Electric Boys have released a music video for "It's Not The End", featured on their Ups!de Down album, released back in April. Watch the video below:

Ups!de Down is available in digital, LP (four different formats) and CD formats via Mighty Music. Order here.

Tracklist:

"Upside Down Theme"
"Super God"
"Tumblin' Dominoes"
"Never Again Your Slave"
"She Never Turns Around"
"Globestrutter"
"The Dudes & The Dancers"
"Twang 'Em & Kerrang 'Em"
"It's Not The End"
"Interstellafella"

"Tumblin' Dominoes" video:

"Super God" video:

(Photo - Sven Isaksson)




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

Coming off their most successful album yet, Paradigm, Sweden's Eclipse return with their new studio album, Wired, on October 8. A new single and music video from the album, "Bite The Bullet" is out today. Watch the video below, and pre-order/save Wired here.

The album will be available in the following formats:

- CD
- Crystal Vinyl (available worldwide)
- Red Vinyl (exclusive to Frontiers' US & EU webstores and Nordic retailers - Limited to 500 copies WORLDWIDE)
- Cassette (exclusive to Frontiers' US & EU webstores and Nordic retailers - Limited to 200 copies WORLDWIDE)
- Digital

The CD and Digital versions will include the exclusive bonus track, "Dead Inside". The LP version will include the exclusive bonus track, "Ain't No Fun". The LP version of the album will also have a different running order for the tracklisting from the other versions. See below for tracklistings by format.

Preceded by the single "Saturday Night (Hallelujah)", a post-Covid party anthem, Wired sees the Swedish quartet delivering some of the best songs of their career. It’s a much needed uplifting monster of an album in the aftermath of the pandemic age.

"All over the world, people have coped with this mess in their own way. Our way was focusing on the good times ahead, which we believe comes through in the songs we wrote. Good thing we didn't know how long it was gonna take when we started, or we would have ended up writing a rock opera.That's probably best left to others...," says the band of the album.

Over the last few years, Eclipse have performed to audiences around the globe, including the US, Japan, Australia and Europe and have opened for giants like Aerosmith and the Scorpions. Their albums have amassed millions of streams and charted in several European countries. With the momentum of their last studio album Paradigm propelling them, Wired promises to push them even further up the rock 'n roll mountain.

"Ironically enough, after Paradigm we said that we were gonna try to release music more frequently. But, here we are pretty much two years later. Again. Although this time through no fault of our own. But we wrote songs that we wanted to play live and we can't wait to finally get back at it. Buckle up people, it's party time!" concludes the band.

Tracklistings:

CD / Digital
"Roses On Your Grave"
"Dying Breed"
"Saturday Night (Hallelujah)"
"Run For Cover"
"Carved In Stone"
"Twilight"
"Poison Inside My Heart"
"Bite The Bullet"
"We Didn't Come To Lose"
"Things We Love"
"Dead Inside" (CD and Digital Exclusive Bonus Track)

LP
"Saturday Night (Hallelujah)"
"Twilight"
"Ain't No Fun" (Vinyl Exclusive Bonus Track)
"Dying Breed"
"Carved In Stone"
"Things We Love"
"Roses On Your Grave"
"Run For Cover"
"Poison Inside My Heart"
"We Didn't Come To Lose"
"Bite The Bullet"

Cassette
"Roses On Your Grave"
"Dying Breed"
"Saturday Night (Hallelujah)"
"Run For Cover"
"Carved In Stone"
"Twilight"
"Poison Inside My Heart"
"Bite The Bullet"
"We Didn't Come To Lose"
"Things We Love"

"Bite The Bullet" video:

"Saturday Night (Hallelujah)" video:

Lineup:

Erik Mårtensson – Vocals
Magnus Henriksson – Guitars
Philip Crusner – Drums
Victor Crusner – Bass




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});

On September 17, Criminal will release their new album, Sacrificio, via Metal Blade Records. For a first preview of Sacrificio, a video for the new single, "Zona De Sacrificio" (directed by Carlos Toro of Abysmo Films, who has previously worked with Kreator, Arch Enemy, Rob Halford, etc.), can be viewed below.

Sacrificio is Criminal's ninth full-length studio album: a twelve-track bludgeoning that harks back to their roots - both literally and metaphorically. Whilst writing for Sacrificio, Criminal's home country of Chile saw a social uprising that has impacted the lives of Chileans in immeasurable ways. Protests against corruption, inequality and the poor standard of living saw citizens take to the streets to make themselves heard. This civil action and vehement anger seeped into the creative process of the four members of Criminal - three of them being Chilean. Although there is a deep personal connection to the lyrical content, the events unfold from the perspective of a spectator - albeit one who has also experienced tyrannical leadership and witnessed the divide between ordinary citizens and the social elite.

Chilean culture weaves its way into the album in other ways too; though suitably heavy, there's a percussive element to the sound of Sacrificio that reveals its Latin American roots. Coupled with an unapologetic nod to the 90s in terms of both composition and production, this album sees Criminal finding their groove in more ways than one. The resulting sound is celebratory, rhythmic, organic, and captures everything that was glorious about the flourishing extreme metal scene in the 1990s.

For a band that originally formed out of the ashes of 80's death metal legends Pentagram Chile, the album highlights the benefits of embracing the band's origins; writing and recording took place in Chile for the first time since the 1990s. Criminal continues to prove that South America can create powerful death metal on its own terms. For Sacrificio, much of the material was written in the old-fashioned way - jamming in a sweaty rehearsal room, refining as they went. The old school vibe is further enhanced by the natural sounding production of Seba Puente, which adds to the immediacy and live feel found throughout Sacrificio.

The past 30 years have seen twists and turns in the Criminal tale, but Sacrificio finds them sounding more compelling than ever. The sole original member, vocalist/guitarist Anton Reisenegger (Brujeria, Lock Up, Pentagram Chile), allows plenty of room for the newer and younger members of the band - Danilo Estrella (drums), Danny Biggin (bass), Sergio Klein (guitar) - to add their personal touches to the band's missives.

The record can be pre-ordered here in the following formats:

- jewelcase-CD
- 180g black vinyl (EU exclusive)
- golden vinyl (EU exclusive - limited to 250 copies)
- orange w/ black splatter vinyl

Sacrificio tracklisting:

"Live On Your Knees"
"Caged"
"The Whale"
"Zona De Sacrificio"
"After Me, The Flood"
"Dark Horse"
"Theocrazy"
"Sistema Criminal"
"Zealots"
"Age Of Distrust"
"Hunter And The Prey"
"Ego Killer"

"Zona De Sacrificio" video:

Criminal lineup:

Anton Reisenegger - vocals/guitars
Sergio Klein - guitars
Danny Biggin - bass
Danilo Estrella - drums

(Photo - Cristian Carrasco)




propertag.cmd.push(function() { proper_display('bravewords_content_2'); });



window._taboola = window._taboola || [];
_taboola.push({
mode: 'thumbnails-rr',
container: 'taboola-below-article-thumbnails',
placement: 'Below Article Thumbnails',
target_type: 'mix'
});