On February 25, 2020, mere days before the first case of COVID-19 was discovered in the United Kingdom, as the ongoing pandemic necessitated the suspension of modern society, a very special concert took place at the legendary Palladium in London celebrating the songs of Peter Green and the original incarnation of FLEETWOOD MAC.

The audience at that sold-out show witnessed something unique at what would be the last live concert anyone would attend until further notice. This show also now takes on a particularly poignant meaning, with the unfortunate passing of Peter Green in July 2020.

The players gathered were an all-star cast and all of the musicians present that night had a deep and frequently far-fetched, cosmic connection to the songs.

This music had changed their lives, impelled them to play, and for one of them, inspired the formation of their now very famous band. This music has continued to rouse and arouse, and that night, on the verge of an historically dark and sobering moment in human history, it was given a glorious observance.

The participants that night included Neil Finn, Noel Gallagher, Billy Gibbons, David Gilmour, Kirk Hammett, John Mayall, Christine McVie, Jeremy Spencer, Zak Starkey, Pete Townshend, Steven Tyler and Bill Wyman. Legendary producer Glyn Johns joined as the executive sound producer and the house band featured Mick Fleetwood himself along with Dave Bronze, Jonny Lang, Andy Fairweather Low, Ricky Peterson and Rick Vito.

Mick Fleetwood, who curated the list of artists performing, said: "The concert was a celebration of those early blues days where we all began, and it's important to recognize the profound impact Peter and the early FLEETWOOD MAC had on the world of music. Peter was my greatest mentor and it gave me such joy to pay tribute to his incredible talent. I was honoured to be sharing the stage with some of the many artists Peter has inspired over the years and who share my great respect for this remarkable musician. 'Then Play On'..."

The incredible one-off celebration will be screened on March 23 / March 28, 2021 in cinemas across the U.K., distributed by Cinema Live. Details will be announced in the new year. Additionally, the film will be released on physical formats — gatefold 4LP, 2CD/Blu-ray mediabook — and digital audio on April 30, 2021 via BMG.

Following a high-octane release just over a week ago, AC/DC has taken over the No. 1 spot in 18 countries and counting with its brand-new album. "Power Up". The list of topped charts includes the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200, selling over 117,000 copies in the first week.

"Power Up" marks AC/DC's sixth No. 1 album in Australia where the band is the only Australian group in history to have had a No. 1 album across five decades: "Back In Black" (1980s), "Ballbreaker Live" (1990s), "Black Ice" (2000s), "Rock Or Bust" (2010s) and "Power Up" (2020s). The album also holds Germany's biggest first week of 2020 and the biggest first week for an international act in four years, as well as being the U.K.'s fastest-selling album of 2020 and the biggest first week of the year.

"Power Up" is the fastest-selling album of 2020 in at least three of its biggest markets — U.S., Australia and the U.K. — where it debuted at No. 1. In the U.K., it opened with first-week sales of 62,000. 52,955 units of these were on a physical format (CD, vinyl, cassette).

"Power Up" features AC/DC's 2020 lineup of Brian Johnson (vocals), Phil Rudd (drums), Cliff Williams (bass), Angus Young (guitar) and Stevie Young (guitar). The LP was recorded over a six-week period in August and September 2018 at Warehouse Studios in Vancouver with producer Brendan O'Brien, who also worked 2008's "Black Ice" and 2014's "Rock Or Bust".

"What I like about Brendan is that he keeps you working when you're doing a project with him," Angus told Rolling Stone. "He's talented himself. He knows his bass and his guitar and a bit of drums. And piano. He covers the spectrum for what we can do musically. It's very good because you’re working with a musician, since he can apply that musical knowledge."

Although AC/DC originally planned on releasing "Power Up" earlier this year, the pandemic forced the band to reconsider.

"We were hoping to get the album out before all this happened," Angus said. "They were getting ideas together for packaging and video promo things. And then that virus thing came along. It kind of put everyone on hold."

"Power Up" is available in multiple configurations, including digital, CD, and deluxe versions. The limited edition, one-of-a-kind deluxe "Power Up" box is the ultimate fan package. Hit the button on the side of the box and watch the flashing neon AC/DC logo light up while the opening bars of "Shot In The Dark" blast out of the built-in speaker. Inside the box is the full CD package in a soft-pack with a 20-page booklet that features exclusive photos and USB charging cable allowing the box to remain powered up and on display. The vinyl LP was pressed on 180-gram vinyl and housed in a gatefold jacket. Limited-edition variants of the LP are available at select retailers nationwide, as well as the band's online store.

Photo credit: Josh Cheuse

Tampere-based Final Void have released a new single and music video, "Symphony Of Lies". The track is taken from the upcoming second album, Visions of Fear, which is set to be released on February 19th, 2021 via Inverse Records. Check out the vifdeo below.
 
The band comments: "Vicious and melodic, 'Symphony Of Lies' grips the attention of the audience and gives a taste of the upcoming album."

Tracklist:

"Prelude"
"Common Enemy"
"Fear"
"Unholy Grasp"
"Symphony Of Lies"
"Save Me"
"Abomination"
"Social Anxiety"
"Cataclysm"

"Symphony Of Lies" 

 




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

Speaking with Music Radar, TesseracT frontman Daniel Tompkins offered a rundown of the 10 albums that changed his life. Following is an excerpt from the list.

A Perfect Circle – Mer de Noms (2000)

Tompkins: "I heard A Perfect Circle before Tool. It came out when I was 16 and it was something I'd never heard before. It's the mood. A lot of the albums I've chosen are all about the mood and the journey. It's not just about Maynard (James Keenan); all the musicianship is utterly fantastic. 

I saw them tour this at Nottingham Rock City. I was front row, mesmerised the whole time. The way the stage was lit with the back-lit silhouettes created this mood; a mesmerisation that was hypnotic. People were just in awe. As a 16-year-old kid who didn't know what he wanted to do other than sing, I said 'No matter what happens I have to do this; this is magical.' That was the moment I knew I wanted to be a singer. I didn't know how I was going to get there, but I knew I wanted a piece of it."

Sevendust – Seasons (2003)

Tompkins: "Huge songs. Every song's got an amazing hook to it. Lajon Witherspoon's voice is the most well-rounded, soulful, rich voice. The production of the records was so huge it left me thinking 'Why do more people not know who Sevendust are? Why are they not as big as Korn?' They've been going for years, and they've just released a new album that's absolutely amazing!

I used to listen to it in the car religiously. I can sing along to Lajon's voice well but can I write anything like it? Can I get my voice to sit in the same zone tonally? I can't do it, I haven't got the soul!"

Check out the complete rundown here.

TesseracT released the deluxe vinyl reissue of their critically-acclaimed 2013 album, Altered State, on November 6th via Century Media. This 4LP+2CD set collects the original album together with the instrumentals, the latter of which have never been released on vinyl. Each 180g 2LP set comes in a gatefold sleeve, packaged in a slipcase with 4 individual inserts/lyric sheets, plus 2 CD's. 

"For the band, we always felt like we hit a perfect balance with the presentation on Altered State. And that the concept was made even more striking in a gatefold vinyl package. There's just something very tactile and real about that iteration. We're all really looking forward to it being available in that format again," states TesseracT about the release.

Altered State was originally released back in 2013, and is the only album to feature vocalist Ashe O'Hara. Additionally, the album was nominated in the Best Album category at the Progressive Music Awards 2013, following their previous Best New Band win. Watch the video for the single "Nocturne", which has over 2.7 million views on YouTube, below. The instrumental version of "Nocturne", which is featured on this 4LP set also features a guest appearance from Paul Waggoner of Between The Buried & Me.

Most recently, the band (with vocalist Daniel Tompkins) released their latest album Sonder in 2018, before embarking on a world tour in support of the record. During the enforced lockdown as a result of the Covid-19 crisis, the band performed a Live In Lockdown' session, recorded in 5 different locations, across 3 different countries. Watch below.

Photo by Steve Brown




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

Devin Townsend has returned with another installment of his ongoing Quarantine Project, this time with the demo of a new song called "Equinox".

Devin: "I wrote this one a few months ago, its a work in progress and this is a demo. I may use it for an album at some point, but it's cathartic, this one. Hang in there folks; no shame in feeling what we feel."

Devin Townsend - vocals, guitar
Morgan Agren - drums
Nathan Navarro - bass
Che Dorval - additional vocals
Diego Tejeida - additional keys

Check out some of Townsend's previous Quarantine Project releases below, and check out the new BraveWords feature on Canada's first Strapping Young Lad here.




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

Dutch symphonic metallers EPICA will release their new album, "Omega", on February 26, 2021 via Nuclear Blast. The follow-up to 2016's "The Holographic Principle" was once again produced by Joost Van Den Broek (POWERWOLF, AYREON) in part at Sandlane Recording Facilities in Rijen, Netherlands.

EPICA has released the official music video for the second single from the album, titled "Freedom - The Wolves Within". The clip, which was created by Bram Knol, can be seen below.

Guitarist/vocalist Mark Jansen comments: "This song is based on an old story of a fight between two wolves. A wise Cherokee is discussing life with his grandson: He tells the boy, 'There is a fight going on inside of me between two wolves.' One wolf is evil, he embodies anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority and ego. The other wolf is good, joyful, peaceful, and embodies love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith. We all have the same fight going on inside of us and the outcome of this battle will reflect on the outer world. The boy gets curious and asks his grandfather which wolf will win? The old Cherokee simply answers, 'The one you feed the most.' What we want to be and what we want to reflect on the world around us depends on which wolf we feed and also the degree of control we have over our inner wolves. Will we manage to control them or will they control us?"

Jansen previously stated about "Omega": "I am very proud of this album, as I am convinced we have written a very refreshing and well-balanced album even after so many years of existence.

"Our strength is that we have many great songwriters in one band. We have managed to combine each other's strongest qualities and select the best songs. It was a fruitful period of spending time together to work as one team on those tracks. I think this has made the biggest difference compared to our previous albums. Still using the advantages of comfortably sending files by the Internet to each other but combining that with coming physically together again to work on all the tracks.

"I think I have listened to 'Omega' about 50 times already and still can't get enough of it!"

"Omega" track listing:

01. Alpha - Anteludium

02. Abyss Of Time - Countdown To Singularity

03. The Skeleton Key

04. Seal of Solomon

05. Gaia

06. Code Of Life

07. Freedom - The Wolves Within

08. Kingdom Of Heaven, Part 3 - The Antediluvian Universe

09. Rivers

10. Synergize - Manic Manifest

11. Twilight Reverie - The Hypnagogic State

12. Omega - Sovereign Of The Sun Spheres

Last fall, EPICA celebrated the 10th anniversary of its milestone album "Design Your Universe". To mark this special occasion, EPICA re-released this fan-favorite LP as a "gold edition" through Nuclear Blast. This edition contains the album remixed and remastered by Joost Van Den Broek with updated artwork and a second disc containing newly recorded acoustic versions of "Design Your Universe" songs.

November 2019 saw the release of "The Essence Of Epica", a lavishly designed and fully illustrated, high-quality hardback which tells the story of EPICA in bandmembers' own words. The book is available in two distinct editions: the Classic is a 208-page, hardback with foil detailing, filled with over 200 images; the Signature hardback is signed by the band and comes in a deluxe clamshell box with three exclusive, original art prints created by Stefan Heilemann.

New Fearless Records signing, Kill The Lights, which features former members of Bullet For My Valentine and Throw The Fight, have shared their cover of the Metallica classic, "Battery". Watch the visualizer below.

Drummer Moose Thomas explains: WWe were talking about doing another Quarantine Cover after we had so much fun covering 'Into The Pit' by Testament, and it was obvious that we had to try and top that. In my mind I’ve always wanted to cover anything off the amazingly good Master Of Puppets, and it came down to a choice between 'Disposable Heroes' or 'Battery'. We chose the latter just because we all agreed that it would be a good challenge to hopefully do justice to. And of course, we're massive Metallica fans (who isn’t?) and we had a fun time tracking it!"

For the previously released "Into The Pit" cover the band crafted a video that has an authentic VHS vibe.

"There were a ton of cover songs options we could have gone with, and we did consider covering a pop song in our style," shares drummer Moose Thomas. "But we decided to cover 'Into the Pit' by the mighty Testament purely because it's a classic song that's fun to play. We wanted to stay true to the original as closely as possible, to pay our respects to metal royalty. A great song by an amazing band."

The band previously shared the video for new song "Shed My Skin". Fans can also watch the video for "Plagues".

More information about Kill The Lights' upcoming debut album will be revealed soon.

Lineup:

James Clark - Vocals (ex-Throw The Fight)
Jordan Whelan - Guitar (Still Remains)
Michael "Moose" Thomas - Drums (ex-Bullet For My Valentine)
Travis Montgomery - Guitar (ex-Threat Signal)




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

GUNS N' ROSES has released video footage of the band's October 7, 2019 performance from at InTrust Bank Arena in Wichita, Kansas. The 27-minute clip is part of the GN'R web series dubbed "Not In This Lifetime Selects" featuring highlights from the four-year "Not In This Lifetime" tour.

Featured songs:

00:00 "Estranged"

09:20 "Civil War"

16:58 "Wichita Lineman" (Glen Campbell cover)

21:00 "Nightrain"

In July, GUNS N' ROSES announced the rescheduled dates for its North American stadium tour.

GUNS N' ROSES' "Not In This Lifetime" tour, which began four years ago, recently became the No. 3 highest-grossing tour in the history of Billboard Boxscore.

Launched in April 2016, "Not in This Lifetime" featured classic-lineup members Slash, Duff McKagan and singer Axl Rose backed by guitarist Richard Fortus, drummer Frank Ferrer, keyboardist Dizzy Reed and second keyboardist Melissa Reese.

GUNS kicked off its long-rumored and long-awaited reunion tour with a club show in Hollywood and appearances in Las Vegas and at California's Coachella festival.

The band is now reportedly working on a new studio album — the first under the GUNS banner since 2008's "Chinese Democracy" and the first to feature Rose, Slash and McKagan since 1993.

Photo credit: Katarina Benzova

September 25th marked 25 years since Rammstein emerged from Berlin with its debut album, Herzeleid. To celebrate the anniversary, the RammWiki page on YouTube continues to roll out rare audio and video material from the band's career. The latest installment is the official demo for the unreleased song, "Eisenmann".

According to RammWiki the song has existed since the recording sessions for the Reise, Reise and Rosenrot albums. In March 2004 it was found in the GEMA database, where its length was listed as 5:24. As of today, it has been removed from GEMA (Germany's government-mandated collecting society and performance rights organization). 

In November 2005, keyboardist Flake said in an interview that the song was finished, but the band didn't like it, so they decided not to release it on Rosenrot. The song was reworked and re-recorded during the recording sessions for Liebe Ist Für Alle Da.

In 2010, the 3:28 version of the song leaked on the internet. There is a fake demo around where a fan added some extra guitars. Another fake demo contains an additional synth during the verses and bridge.

To celebrate Rammstein's first indelible impact on global hard rock history, the band and Vertigo/UMe will release limited, remastered editions of the band’s groundbreaking debut on December 4. They have released an official trailer for Herzeleid (XXV Anniversary Edition - Remastered) featuring the CD and vinyl LP versions of the album.

Herzeleid (XXV Anniversary Edition - Remastered) will feature the album’s original tracklist on a single CD, housed in a lavish, cross-shaped digipak with deluxe slipcase, and, for the first time ever, the remastered album with HD sound will be available digitally.

In addition, there will be a 2LP version with a slipcase containing two 180 gram heavyweight black vinyl discs with blue splatter effect. The creator of the original artwork, Dirk Rudolph, is also responsible for the Anniversary Edition packaging. The booklets also contain the original band portraits shot by Praler. Both the CD and vinyl editions are strictly limited.

The limited editions can be pre-ordered here.

Tracklisting:

"Wollt Ihr Das Bett in Flammen Sehen"
"Der Meister"
"Weisses Fleisch"
"Asche zu Asche"
"Seemann"
"Du Riechst So Gut"
"Das Alte Leid"
"Heirate Mich"
"Herzeleid"
"Laichzeit"
"Rammstein"




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

In a new interview with Waleed Aly, co-host of Australia's news and current affairs television program "The Project", AC/DC guitarist Angus Young addressed the fact that the band never changed its style, focusing instead on fine-tuning its distinct sound over the years.

"With us, it's to be expected," he said (see video below). As my brother [late AC/DC rhythm guitarist Malcolm Young] used to say, when somebody said, 'Every album you've ever made sounds the same,' he said, 'Yeah. It's the same band.' When we started, we weren't reinventing the wheel. This is what we do best — we make rock and roll."

Angus also once again confirmed that AC/DC's long-awaited comeback album, "Power Up", is a tribute to Malcolm, who died in 2017 from effects of dementia at age 64. Malcolm is credited as a writer on all 12 tracks on "Power Up", along with Angus.

"With Malcolm, he would just always get rolling," Angus said. "That was him. A lot of these songs we'd done on this album, a lot of them are tracks he always said, 'Well, we've gotta get these done.' He always wanted them out there on an album."

According to Angus, there are plenty of unreleased AC/DC song ideas left over that could surface on future LPs.

"Around the album 'Black Ice', which was the last album Malcolm was on, we had a number of years off and we had so much stuff that we had written together — boxes full of stuff," Angus said.

"Power Up" hit the No. 1 spot in 18 countries, including in the U.S., where it sold over 117,000 copies in the first week. The LP marks AC/DC's sixth No. 1 album in Australia where the band is the only Australian group in history to have had a No. 1 album across five decades: "Back In Black" (1980s), "Ballbreaker Live" (1990s), "Black Ice" (2000s), "Rock Or Bust" (2010s) and "Power Up" (2020s). The album also holds Germany's biggest first week of 2020 and the biggest first week for an international act in four years, as well as being the U.K.'s fastest-selling album of 2020 and the biggest first week of the year.

"Power Up" is the fastest-selling album of 2020 in at least three of its biggest markets — U.S., Australia and the U.K. — where it debuted at No. 1. In the U.K., it opened with first-week sales of 62,000. 52,955 units of these were on a physical format (CD, vinyl, cassette).

"Power Up" features AC/DC's 2020 lineup of Brian Johnson (vocals), Phil Rudd (drums), Cliff Williams (bass), Angus (guitar) and Stevie Young (guitar). The LP was recorded over a six-week period in August and September 2018 at Warehouse Studios in Vancouver with producer Brendan O'Brien, who also worked 2008's "Black Ice" and 2014's "Rock Or Bust".

"Power Up" is available in multiple configurations, including digital, CD, and deluxe versions. The limited edition, one-of-a-kind deluxe "Power Up" box is the ultimate fan package. Hit the button on the side of the box and watch the flashing neon AC/DC logo light up while the opening bars of "Shot In The Dark" blast out of the built-in speaker. Inside the box is the full CD package in a soft-pack with a 20-page booklet that features exclusive photos and USB charging cable allowing the box to remain powered up and on display. The vinyl LP was pressed on 180-gram vinyl and housed in a gatefold jacket. Limited-edition variants of the LP are available at select retailers nationwide, as well as the band's online store.

The 30th-anniversary edition of ICED EARTH's self-titled debut album will arrive on December 18 via Century Media Records. The new version of the 1990 LP features a remix by Chris "Zeuss" Harris, who previously worked with ICED EARTH on the group's latest effort, 2017's "Incorruptible", and brand new artwork.

ICED EARTH mainman Jon Schaffer comments: "This 30-year-old debut classic has been remixed and remastered from the original 2 inch tapes by Zeuss, and it sounds fantastic. It has a modern touch and still retains the dynamics of the original release. This is a big step forward sonically and visually. We're excited to have our exclusive artwork and blood red vinyl version at icedearthmerch.com."

The remixed and remastered version of the song "Funeral" can be streamed below.

"Iced Earth (30th Anniversary Edition)" is available as 180-gram vinyl, limited CD digipak and digital album.

Track listing:

01. Iced Earth (Remaster 2020)

01. Written On The Walls (Remaster 2020)

01. Colors (Remaster 2020)

01. Curse The Sky (Remaster 2020)

01. Life And Death (Remaster 2020)

01. Solitude (Remaster 2020)

01. Funeral (Remaster 2020)

01. When The Night Falls (Remaster 2020)

Recording lineup:

Jon Schaffer - Rhythm And Lead Guitars, Backing Vocals

Gene Adam - Lead Vocals

Dave Abell - Bass Guitars

Mike McGill - Drums

Randy Shawver - Lead Guitar

This past July, Schaffer said that there were no plans for ICED EARTH to work on the follow-up to "Incorruptible". "There is no way we can plan," he said during a Facebook Live chat. "You guys should be able to understand that, if you watch the news. I have an international band, and I can't even travel to Europe right now [because of coronavirus pandemic-related restrictions]. There's no point in trying to put together a plan, because I guarantee you they're gonna launch the second wave of this shit and lock us all down again. To what degree, nobody really knows yet, but they were fielding that as soon as all this nonsense started, so it's definitely expected to be the case. So making plans for touring and putting all that together just to have it all derailed is costly and naïve at best. So I don't know.

"I'm gonna definitely plan on working on some new material later this year, early next year," he explained. "But again, that depends on how things roll out. So that's the way it is. We're just gonna have to see what happens with the global situation. There are several things that could take place. Hopefully some good things will happen to turn this mess around, but I'm not feeling super confident about that at the moment."

Less than two years ago, Schaffer teamed up with his old pals in PURGATORY, the band that he originally founded in 1985, then later became ICED EARTH, to record five tracks that were written between 1985 and 1987. The resulting "Purgatory" EP was released in December 2018 through Century Media. The EP includes liner notes and comments by Schaffer, Gene Adam, Greg Seymour and Bill Owen, and fitting cover artwork by David Newman Stump and Roy Young, known from their excellent work on "Incorruptible".

German heavy rockers, Sainted Sinners, will release their new album, Unlocked & Reloaded, on December 4 via El Puerto Records. It is their first with new singer Iacopo “Jack” Meille (Tygers Of Pan Tang) on vocals. Check out the new single / video "Same Ol' Song" below

Unlocked & Reloaded was mixed by Dick Dropkick at SpitFire Studio and mastered by Harry Hess (Harem Scarem, Danko Jones, Grim Reaper). The cover artwork was designed by Manfred Smietana / MS Art Design.

The album is available for pre-order in a strictly limited edition wooden box of 333 numbered boxes, with a few surprises, here.

Tracklisting:

"Same Ol’ Song"
"Standing On Top"
"Early Light Of Day"
"40 Years"
"The Hammer Of The Gods"
"Free To Be"
"I Can’t Wait"
"Stone Cold Sober"
"Call It Love"
"Wall Of Sound"
"Farewell To Kings"

Photo by Matt Bischof




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

SYSTEM OF A DOWN's music video for the song "Chop Suey!" has surpassed one billion views on YouTube. It is the first SYSTEM OF A DOWN track to reach the milestone.

SYSTEM OF A DOWN joins a diverse and elite group of artists to surpass the one-billion mark, a list which includes NIRVANA's "Smells Like Teen Spirit", GUNS N' ROSES' "Novemeber Rain", QUEEN's "Bohemian Rhapsody" and LINKIN PARK's "Numb" and "In The End".

"Chop Suey!" was the first single from SYSTEM OF A DOWN's second album, "Toxicity". The single was released in August 2001 and earned the band its first Grammy nomination in 2002 for "Best Metal Performance."

SYSTEM OF A DOWN guitarist/vocalist Daron Malakian stated about "Chop Suey!": "The song is about how we are regarded differently depending on how we pass. Everyone deserves to die. Like, if I were now to die from drug abuse, they might say I deserved it because I abused dangerous drugs. Hence the line, 'I cry when angels deserve to die.'"

Earlier this month, SYSTEM OF A DOWN released "Protect The Land" and "Genocidal Humanoidz", the band's first new songs in 15 years. The tracks were motivated by the recently erupted conflict between Artsakh and Azerbaijan, the latter aided by Turkey and accountable for the greatest violence the region has endured in 26 years. Produced by Malakian, who also wrote the music and lyrics, both songs are streaming now on all DSPs and are available for purchase on Bandcamp with band royalties earmarked for the Armenia Fund.

"Protect The Land" a was originally written by Malakian for the next album by his other group, SCARS ON BROADWAY, while "Genocidal Humanoidz" was penned three or four years ago when Odadjian, Malakian and drummer John Dolmayan and bassist Shavo Odadjian convened for a jam session that produced several songs, only to abandon them when singer Serj Tankian wouldn't commit to an album.

RESIST & BITE, the new band featuring former TESLA guitarist Tommy Skeoch, has released the official music video for its first single, "The Myth I'm Livin'". Joining him in the group are ex-LYNCH MOB lead vocalist Nathan Utz, guitarist Steve Stokes, drummer David Parks and bassist Brian Powell.

During an appearance this past March on SiriusXM's "Trunk Nation" radio show, Skeoch spoke about his departure from TESLA nearly a decade a half ago. Asked if he exited the group of his own accord or if he was asked to leave, Tommy said: "I was fired. I was getting fucked up and I was definitely in the wrong about a lot of stuff, and they put up with it for a long time. But at the same time, none of us were angels, and we put up with a lot of stuff from the other guys for a long time too, and they're still there. So I felt like a little scapegoated by the thing. And the other thing is they didn't want people — I guess for the benefit of my family, so it wouldn't look bad — they said, 'Tommy's just gonna spend time [with his family].' That's why nobody knows, and that's why you're asking this question. Everyone's confused on even what happened. Basically, I was fired. I was getting fucked up, and I kept fucking up, and I kept telling 'em I wouldn't, and I just couldn't stop."

Skeoch added that he accepts responsibility for the circumstances that led to his departure from TESLA. "I do, of course," he said. "But I also believe we put up with a lot of shit for a long time from almost every other guy in the band, and they're still there. So I don't know what's up with that; that's a little weird to me."

Skeoch was dismissed from TESLA in 2006 and went on to receive treatment for substance-abuse issues. He has since been replaced by Dave Rude.

This past September, TESLA guitarist Frank Hannon was asked by Detroit's WRIF radio station if the band will ever work with Skeoch again. Hannon said: "When we were kids, Tommy Skeoch and myself, I was 16 and he was about 19 or 20. I used to really look up to him — I was a huge fan of his style, and still am, a great fan of his guitar playing. We were like best buds. And then we would collaborate and write songs like 'Modern Day Cowboy' or any of those TESLA songs, we'd write 'em together. But as time went on, man, the egos and the problems — myself included — throughout the years, the competition, it really drove a wedge between us. And the drugs and alcohol just really destroyed our relationship, I've just gotta be honest. We weren't supposed to talk about this stuff, but now I figure it's been long enough.

"I don't see that TESLA will ever go back, because we love Dave Rude, and Dave has really been a great addition to the band. And it would be disrespectful to him to go backwards to a toxic thing, a relationship that really got very toxic.

"Unfortunately, I don't think that TESLA will work with Tommy again — ever," Frank reiterated. "But I will say that myself, personally, I have always loved Tommy and I just wish him the best. I'm so glad that he's still alive, and I know he's got a new band out [RESIST & BITE] that put a song out called 'The Myth I'm Livin''. It was kick-ass; it had Tommy's guitar. Look, I'm getting goosebumps right now. Every time I hear Tommy Skeoch play, it brings a smile to my face, 'cause he's freakin' awesome. As a musician, I have nothing but love and respect for the guy. But I don't think TESLA will ever work with him again. But I do wish him the best."

In a 2011 interview with Noisecreep, TESLA singer Jeff Keith stated about Skeoch: "Look, everyone in TESLA has been through their own substance-abuse issues. But Tommy got in too deep again. So the band told him that the only way we would be able to make this work is if he was clean and sober. I felt like we couldn't ask him to do that if we weren't going to commit to it too. So I was the first one to say that I wouldn't drink, or do anything else, on the tour. The next thing you know, the other guys did the same thing. Troy [Luccketta, drums] has been clean and sober for over 20 years, so it wasn't even an issue for him... Tommy couldn't stay off the stuff he was doing. It broke my heart to see it, but we knew we had to replace him."

Last year, Skeoch announced the formation of a new project called SKIN SUIT. That band, which also features vocalist Rob McManus, released its self-titled debut album this past March.

The popular vinyl collectible company Funko — best known for its big-headed Pop! figures — has teamed up with SLIPKNOT for one of its latest artist collaborations.

Pre-orders for figures of frontman Corey Taylor, programmer/sampler Craig Jones and DJ Sid Wilson, are now available at Slipknotmerch.com. Figures of some of the other members of SLIPKNOT will apparently follow at a later date.

Other artists who have gotten the Pop! Rocks treatment in the past include KISS, IRON MAIDEN, METALLICA, GUNS N' ROSES, AC/DC, Ozzy Osbourne, DEF LEPPARD and Rob Zombie.

A Funko vinyl Pop! figure, or popularly known as a "Pop!", is packaged carefully inside a box with a transparent front. The figurine is made out of vinyl and may come as a bobblehead.

Funko reported that these figurines increased its sales by 38 percent in the second quarter of 2019. International sales spiked 65 percent to $68.5 million, while U.S. revenue grew 26 percent to $122.7 million.

Headquartered in Everett, Washington, Funko is a leading pop culture consumer products company. Funko designs, sources and distributes licensed pop culture products across multiple categories, including vinyl figures, action toys, plush, apparel, housewares and accessories for consumers who seek tangible ways to connect with their favorite pop culture brands and characters.

Sabaton will launch 24 Days Of Christmas on December 1. The band has issued the following message:

"Are you ready for 24 Days of Christmas with Sabaton? Starting December 1st and for 24 days we will have a daily surprise for you. Surprises include: Giveaways, Signed items, New Music, Limited Merch, Personalized Videos, Discounts & many more!

The surprises will be revealed on our social media channels and website every day at 19:00 CET / 13:00 EST. Stay tuned." 🎅🎄




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

Omer Cordell, mastermind of ongoing prog metal project Trailight, has checked in with the following update:

"The time has come, and it is with great pleasure that I can now officially present to you: Sophia.

The process of creating this album roughly took 180 days, almost two thousand hours, thousands of mouse clicks, numerous drum sticks, bass and guitar strings, vocal strains, technological hiccups, heart breaks and a few mental and emotional breakdowns yet through it all, I enjoyed every single second of it. 

This creative process pushed me to the limits of my creativity musically, lyrically and artistically. Every note, every drum beat and every lyric was produced through this labour of love and I wish that you, the listener, will enjoy this album, perhaps draw some inspiration from it and create something positive to share with the world as well.

The album is now available on Bandcamp. Spotify, iTunes and all other streaming platforms will follow.

My heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported the creation of this body of work. 

Being one of many Eons in existence before the physical universe as we know it came into being, Sophia wanted to express and experience herself in a different form other than the pure consciousness that she existed in until that point. She went into a trans-like state and from there, fell into a state of deficiency where she ended up creating the physical universe and with it, the Demiurge.

The Gnostic thought present the Demiurge as antagonistic to the will of the Supreme Creator this sort of Demiurge focus' solely on material reality and on the 'sensuous soul'. In Gnosticism, the Demiurge is an emanation from a higher, purer aeon (Sophia).

With the creation of the material universe and the Demiurge, Sophia made sure that all beings have the divine spark within them. A direct tethered connection to her, to her wisdom, knowing, truth, belief and integrity.

Thank you all for your continued support! Until next time."

 

Sophia by Trailight

 

Tracklist:

"Eon"
"Aftershock"
"Truth"
"The Three Waves"
"Sleepwalkers"
"Island"
"Up In The Air"
"Dance"
"Birth"

Sophia was written and produced by Omer Cordell. Mixed and mastered by Dave Padden (ex-Annihilator).




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

It all started with a request to come up with a Christmas song from two different sources, but rather than just releasing "Silent Night" as a single, guitarist Lars Eric Mattson decided to include a few other tracks that he has been working on since 2014 which he felt did not really fit in on any of his other releases. While this EP might be showcasing a different side of the artist, definitely more bluesy and laidback the guitar work is talking for itself. The three cover songs on the EP have been arranged by Lars in a very different way as you may never have heard them before.

The very special arrangements of "House of the Rising Sun" and "Autumn Leaves" date back to 2014 when Lars formed a band to play a jazz / blues festival as well as a few other local gigs. The backing tracks for these two songs as well as "When December Rules" and "Professor Wilson's Dance" were recorded between 2015-2017 while "Silent Night" was arranged and recorded in November 2020. 

Lars' philosophy about covering classic songs is that you either make them your own or stay away. For "Autumn Leaves", Lars - normally a Stratocaster lover - played his Telecaster and you can definitely heard the different tone. 

Lars always wanted to record with Nevena Brankovic and Johanna Mattsson, two really great singers and this time it just happened without much planning, so pure luck perhaps. 

Silent Night - The December EP is available via Spotify here.

Tracklist:

"House Of The Rising Sun"
"Autumn Leaves"
"When December Rules"
Professor Wilson's Dance"
"Silent Night"

 

 




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

The clip below was shot on March 7th in Nürnberg, Germany during the annual Rock Meets Classic tour, which was forced to end early due to the outbreak of Covid-19. Bassist / master of ceremonies Mat Sinner (Primal Fear) has posted the following message:

"From my last couple of shows this year in March 2020, and I had the honor to rock with the icon Alice Cooper - every second was fantastic & unforgettable."

Rock Meets Classic have confirmed Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider for the 2021 run of the annual tour. Snider will perform a Best Of Twisted Sister set for the duration of the tour.

Rock Meets Classic also announced that Europe frontman Joey Tempest will return as the headliner for the annual tour in 2021. This will be Tempest's second time with Rock Meets Classic, having headlined the 2016 run. Mike Tramp (White Lion), Midge Ure (Ultravox, Thin Lizzy) and Ronnie Romero (Rainbow, Lords Of Black) have also been confirmed.

Below are the first confirmed dates for RMC 2021.

Snider previously performed with Rock Meets Classic with a special one-off set at Wacken Open Air 2015. Check out pro-shot footage below.




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

Brazilian metal band, The Damnnation, has released another music video, this time for the track "Parasite". The song is part of their debut EP, entitled Parasite, released on November 10th through the label Xaninho Discos. "Parasite" brings forth a new and extremely heavy sound.

The Parasite EP is currently available on all digital platforms, and will soon be released on CD.

The Damnnation is a female power trio that brings a versatile sound that mixes several strands of extreme metal. Three insane girls making metal without labels, aware and consistent with themes about depression, injustice and politics. With influences from Testament, Megadeth, Nervosa and Kreator.

The band started after guitarist Renata Petrelli (Marie Dolls, ex-Sinaya) and drummer Cynthia Tsai (Little Room, ex-Sinaya) decided to found a new band in early 2019, where they invited Camis Brandão, (Charlotte Killed A Guy), to join forces and make a type of metal flexible and more organic, without clinging to stereotypes, putting all the good influences of the group and making new songs, with a unique sound and a lot of personality. With a focus on other projects, Cynthia and Camis leave the band, which now has Aline Dutchi (bassist) and Leonora Mölka (drummer).

Tracklisting:

"World’s Curse"
"Apocalypse"
"Parasite"
"Unholy Souldiers"

"Apocalypse":

(Photo - Jessica Mar)

 




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

Spanish melodic death metal band Dormanth, have just released a lyric video for the song "Beyond The Gates", as an advance single from their fourth album, entitled Complete Downfall, which will be released December 15th, 2020 through Xtreem Music on CD format.

Complete Downfall contains 11 tracks where the double bass drums, melodies and catchy choruses prevail in many of the songs along with other mid tempo tunes, continuing their traditional style of melodic death metal influenced by Paradise Lost, Amorphis, Amon Amarth, and In Flames.

Tracklisting:

"Dreamcatcher"
"Fire"
"Tragicomic Day"
"Beyond The Gates"
"Odyssey In Time"
"The Origin"
"Dark Times For The God's Creation"
"-273º K"
"Brainstorm"
"Crystal Bone"
"Bloody Scars"

"Fire":

"Tragicomic Day":

 




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

Greek metal veterans Rotting Christ have issued the following statement:

"Dear friends around, we offer you our full discography in the highest possible quality you can find out there, free to listen via our official channel Rotting Christ TV. Make a visit and we hope you will enjoy our company during these wild times. Untill we meet up again... Be true to your own spirit!"

Rotting Christ's most recent album, The Heretics, was released in 2019 via Season Of Mist. 

Tracklisting:

"In The Name Of God"
"Vetry Zlye"
"Heaven And Hell And Fire"
"Hallowed Be Thy Name"
"Dies Irae"
"I Believe"
"Fire, God And Fear"
"The Voice Of The Universe"
"The New Messiah"
"The Raven"
"The Sons Of Hell" (bonus track)

"I Believe" lyric video:

"The Voice Of The Universe" featuring Ashmedi:

"Dies Irae" lyric video:

"The Sons Of Hell" lyric video:

"Heaven And Hell And Fire" lyric video:

"Fire, God And Fear" lyric video:

 




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

"Stoked," says Canadian rocker Bif Naked. "Absolutely thrilled to be doing a Very Special
Sessions: Live Music Streaming performance, to bring some loud, some love, and some grit, to kiss 2020 goodbye and share a night of Rock! Save the date - December 30th at 9pm EST. Spread the word! Can't wait to Rock! Grab tickets here."

A limited number of virtual pre-show meet & greet tickets are still available, priced at $50 each. regular, general admission tickets are priced at $13 each.

Earlier this year, Bif Naked released a new single, "Jim", taken from her forthcoming album, Champion. Check out the official video below.

Bif: "'Jim' is a song about loss, really. It’s about that disillusionment we all feel when someone turns into an imposter. 'Jim' is the quintessential story of discovering a betrayal and 'Jim' is that villain. The song is totally about pain, and facing it head-on." 

"With the video we really wanted to have a triumph over the pain, and take our power back. The running theme in the video, and the song lyrics, is about finding victory over heartache. The theme and esthetic are striking and vibrantly colorful, and that was very deliberate and actually a tease, and a nod to the new album artwork itself. The reverse concept was executed beautifully, and the whole video showcases all the expertise in its very stylistic aggression. It’s a story being told that eventually reveals the truth. Like the truth being revealed that someone’s 'Jim' is really their 'Judas' all along."

 




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

Collateral are back with a vengeance with their most powerfully uplifting and empowering single to date “Can’t Hold Me Down”. The new single, released by Roulette Media today - Thursday November 26, 2020 is now available at this location. 

The single was recorded and produced by Collateral and mixed by Grammy nominated producer and engineer Romesh Dodangoda (Bring Me The Horizon, Funeral For A Friend, Motorhead).

“Can’t Hold Me Down” is also the first piece of new material to feature Collateral’s expanded six-piece lineup which includes new members Robert Fenning (keyboards) and Louis Malagodi (guitar), alongside original members Angelo Tristan (lead vocals, guitar), Todd Winger (guitar), Jack Bentley-Smith (bass), and Ben Atkinson (drums). 

The new single symbolises hope in a world that has seen industries, businesses and even families collapse in recent months due to the pandemic. "Can’t Hold Me Down"’s message inspires individuals to always be their best, no matter what the obstacles are, no matter what is thrown at them.

Says Collateral frontman Angelo Tristan, “Many bands were struck hard at the start of the year, with Collateral being struck half way through their debut album tour that reached Top 5 in the Official UK Rock Charts. So, there is no surprise that frustration would lead to an empowering full out rock song that would hopefully inspire people across the world to keep focus on the light at the end of the tunnel… and that is exactly what they have done.”

“Can’t Hold Me Down is a song that has many layers and stories that ultimately comes back to one thing, ‘I won’t be held down’,” says Angelo. Starting with the lyric, “I used to be the one with my head in the clouds, chasing the dream to write the perfect rhyme,” to the monstrous multi-voice Queen style chorus with “You Can’t Hold Me Down.”

“We didn’t want to write a typical Covid song. What’s the point?” says Angelo. “The 6 o’clock news is doing that for you day in day out. People don’t need that right now. Some people might see this as a rebellious track. Maybe it is. Our intention is only to try and inspire people to get through the other side of this with a track that brings comfort and a hard pounding beat.”

“Can’t Hold Me Down” is different from the other singles that we have released. It’s less angry than “Lullaby”, it’s more modern than “Mr Big Shot”, it has more balls than “Midnight Queen”, and it completely contradicts “Merry Go Round”. I think our fans are beginning to see a variation starting to appear in our sound and writing which is keeping everyone on their toes, including the band.”

(Photo Credit: Rob Nankivell)

 




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

Hailing from Edmonton, Canada, metallers Juliet Ruin are releasing a new single, “Dark Water”, on Friday, November 27.

This hot new track featuring a guest guitar solo from their good friend Diego Fernandez (Eye Of Horus) is the first look at their next EP of the same title that will arrive in 2021. It's also the first release from the band since the 2019 album Old Stardust, Love and Chaos. According to the band, this upcoming EP represents a step into a heavier domain continuing on with the low-tuned guitars.

"'Dark Water' is the debut single and title track off Juliet Ruin’s newest EP. Showcasing the band’s slightly different direction making the move from three vocalists to one with Jess fully taking over vocals. 'Dark Water' is upbeat, haunting, hopeful, and uplifting, setting the tone for what else the band has in store."

Juliet Ruin has created a listening experience that is definitively hard-edged, but catchy with lyrics you can shout in anger and also it leans positive on message. Overall, the band’s sound has evolved into heavier territory yet again. Completely switching to the lower tuned guitars, this EP does not have any backing vocalists on it as the previous efforts have, thanks to the massive improvements Jess Ruin has made in her harsh vocal techniques.

Juliet Ruin is recommended for anyone who enjoys heavy and melodic metal with powerful vocals, especially those who already have The Agonist, Jinjer, and Killswitch Engage in rotation.

Watch a lyric video for "Dark Water" below:

(Photo - Dana Zuk Photography)




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

New Jersey-based band, The Mylars, have released their new single, "Satellite Girls", off of their upcoming EP, Pop's Station, due out in 2021 via Melody Records. A video for the song can be found below.

When asked about the song, Danny Roselle explains; "'Satellite Girls' is our modern day autobiographical, somewhat comical take on how technology has completely desensitized and taken the heart right out of the experience of enjoying the feelings of surprise and excitement. Today, everyone knows the setlist, everyone knows the special effects... everyone knows the show... Being on stage and staring out at a room full of cell phones gives us a front row seat into the absurdity of it all. Put the phone down, sing along and have a great time. People will believe you were there!"

"Satellite Girls" can be streamed/downloaded here

The Mylars are a super charged power pop rock band founded by vocalist/ guitarist Danny Roselle and long time collaborator, vocalist/bassist Quig.

With a band mission of "It is what it used to be", The Mylars are a combination punch of late seventies power pop rock infused with their own modern day twist. Big sing along choruses, huge guitar riffs, and action packed live shows bring back everything that defined an amazing generation of music.

Hailing from the small town of Union, NJ, co-lead vocalists Danny and Quig have been performing together since a chance meeting as kids while sifting thru the
vinyl aisle of their favorite mom and pop record store, Melody Records.

As the lead singer/songwriter for NYC rockers, The Crash Moderns, Danny toured the US and Canada for several years, sharing the stage with some of the biggest
names in rock music, including The Goo Goo Dolls, Lifehouse, Bowling For Soup, and Bon Jovi and is currently one of the main songwriters for the History
channels hit television show, American Pickers.

Mylars co founder, Quig is responsible for being the creator and manager of the worlds first little person rock group, The Little Kingz, made famous in Ben
Stiller's movie Zoolander.

Danny and Mylars drummer, Chris O'Hara, can also be seen in episodes of HBO's popular hit series, The Sopranos.




(function() {
var zergnet = document.createElement('script');
zergnet.type = 'text/javascript'; zergnet.async = true;
zergnet.src = (document.location.protocol == "https:" ? "https:" : "http:") + '//www.zergnet.com/zerg.js?id=70729';
var znscr = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0];
znscr.parentNode.insertBefore(zergnet, znscr);
})();

JUDAS PRIEST frontman Rob Halford, who celebrated the 34th anniversary of his getting sober in January, spoke to Backstage Axxess about how being clean and sober since 1986 has affected his live performance as well as his emotional well being.

"It is one day at a time," he said (see video below). "Every time I see a commercial on television for a beer [laughs], I go, 'God, I would love a cold beer.' But I know I can't, because I'd just be in a really sick place, I'd be in an unhealthy place again.

"The tough part is living on a day-to-day schedule," he continued. "It's even tougher when you're on the road and you're surrounded by guys that love to drink, and all my band loves to drink. But I have all the tools in place to avoid that temptation, which is just very easy to give in to on a spur of the moment, and then what you worked so hard for seems to have been lost. Having said that, yesterday's gone — it doesn't matter anymore; it's gone. It's all about living in the moment now."

Halford went on to offer his advice to people trying to get sober, explaining: "For people that are struggling with it, understand that you're not alone, that there are literally millions, if not hundreds of millions, of us. And that doesn't make it any easier, but I'd like people to understand that you are not alone, and there are incredible, much easier ways now of reaching out and finding help. We've all got a cell phone, a smartphone, which is the start of the recovery journey. There are places you can go pretty much everywhere on the planet to attend meetings and see people that are going through the same wonderful challenges and great opportunities as yourself. Just don't be afraid. 'Cause it's fear as well.

"I started drinking and drugging to cover up a lot of my own pain, and that's a very common denominator in people that have an addiction," Rob added. "An addiction can be anything, the cause, but in this case, that was my crutch. I was using it to kind of get lost in the difficulties that I was having and thinking that by having a drink or a drug, things would be better. They weren't. They were still the same. You'd collapse on the bed at night, and then you'd wake up and you'd go, 'Well, the problem's still there. The issues are still there.'

"Please, please, really, really think about the great things that you can do for yourself, because when you become clean and sober after an addiction to drugs and alcohol, you become an incredibly strong, powerful, potent person. We've all got that in us; we just don't know how to get to it yet. But once you start to go into recovery — which starts one day at a time — you'll find the most incredible things start to happen to you, for you, as a person, and then it spreads out to your family, to your friends, to your co-workers, to everything that you do in life. Suddenly, it's like being given a second chance. You relish in the opportunity of living a clean and sober life."

Halford previously credited his belief in a higher power for helping him in his recovery. "When I got clean and sober, that was a major change in my life," he said during an appearance on HATEBREED frontman Jamey Jasta's official podcast, "The Jasta Show". "And part of my recovery is just having this higher-power belief. And it works. It works, man. It really, really is important."

Halford added: "There probably will be people listening to [this] podcast who don't have anything like that in their life, and that's great; it's all about acceptance. But I always say to people, if you're thinking about it, the simplest thing I do is I pray. I pray quite a bit, actually. And even if you don't believe in prayer, just have a go. Pray for a good day, or just pray for your friend, or whatever it might be. And it's amazing, man, 'cause it absolutely works. I guarantee, it genuinely does work. And now I'm sounding like [American evangelical Christian evangelist] Billy Graham, but I'm just trying to express some of the things that are important to me on a day-to-day basis that make me able to walk out on that stage each night and do my work."

In an interview with Classic Rock Revisited, Halford said that he quit using substances because he "was sick and tired of feeling sick and tired. I will always remember the first show I did clean and sober… It was in New Mexico, in Albuquerque," he recalled. "I literally felt elevated, as everything was coming with such clarity. I was able to really… enjoy the performance of JUDAS PRIEST without having all of the other things in front of it. Since that day, it has been a miracle."

Halford added, "Everybody has to face things in their lives at some point. It [doesn't have to] be booze and drugs. You can eat too much, or you can not exercise, or whatever… It is not easy staying clean and sober in rock and roll. There are temptations galore from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to sleep, especially when you're on the road. [But] I think we're some of the strongest people, my friends and my sober brothers in metal."

Rob is continuing to promote his recently released autobiography, "Confess", which arrived on September 29 via Hachette Books. It was written with Ian Gittins, co-writer of "The Heroin Diaries" by Nikki Sixx.