Relapse Records announces the signing of Belgium’s Amenra. Formed in 1999, the band have since captivated audiences through their raw, ethereal, sonic energy, both live and in the studio. Amenra’s monstrous live performances and cinematic albums have earned them a cult following. Touring the world over, the band has played some of the most prestigious festivals in Europe and North America. Amenra will release a highly anticipated new album in 2021. Stay tuned for more information in the near future.

Regarding the signing, Amenra comments: “We are thrilled to announce that from now on we will be signed to Relapse records. A haven to a lot of our friends, and now to us as well. We are looking forward to work with this more than capable team, and are eager to see where it will lead us. Our new record will see its first light mid 2021. Ever onwards."

More on Amenra...

At the very end of the 90s, with the H8000 scene - the highly innovative hardcore movement established in the Belgian province of West Flanders - at the peak of its recognition and influence, it probably didn't feel out of the ordinary when one of those bands, Spineless, ceased activities and some of its members decided to form another group. However, that vocalist Colin H. Van Eeckhout, guitarist Mathieu Vandekerckhove and then bassist Kristof J. Mondy founded Amenra to be able to open up to wider influences and invoke a more primal force through music, something that might help purify and heal the heart and the soul of its creators, now that might have raised a couple of eyebrows. Though most likely even the musicians themselves had precious little idea of what awaited them and their many future listeners, the fact alone that they started to look at their new band as not an arrival or a conclusion, but as a vessel for discovery, for growth and for catharsis already signalled that something potentially special was brewing in the Western shores of Belgium.

True to that perspective, the first few years were of intense search for definition and meaning. The first two Masses, 'Mass I: Prayer I-VI' and 'Mass II: Sermons', where their drummer of always Bjorn J. Lebon joined the band led by the core Colin/Mathieu never to leave his Amenra kit again to this day, among a couple of other natural early line-up changes, showed an intense, wide-eyed hunt for an elusive something, a rebellious severing of past ties and an unbreakable will to find their own voice. Though the concept of having each album identified as a Mass - each of them echoing a particular moment in time, each song a vulnerable, aching, knelt-down instant of questioning - was established from the very beginning, there was still a long road ahead of Amenra.

As further life was lived and more inevitable pain was suffered, they reached 'Mass III', by their own admission a momentous occasion in the history of the band. Not only was that record a major step in terms of the group shaping its own personality and finally emerging from the remnants of their old cocoon as a graceful yet tortured dark creature, it was also the catalyst for something more, something literally bigger than Amenra itself. By creating the Church Of Ra, Amenra opened their wings and allowed other like-minded souls to seek refuge there, a collective of artists with similar mindsets and ethos, transcending music and involving art, performance and concept into a whole so much larger than its parts. The Church Of Ra has been instrumental in allowing current crucial artists such as Oathbreaker, The Black Heart Rebellion, Treha Sektori, Hessian and many others to develop and share their work, not to mention dancers, poets, photographers and other artists who have collaborated with the collective. As the contents of their heart and soul seem to be constantly overflowing, the individual projects of Amenra members like Syndrome, CHVE or Kingdom are also allowed free reign under the Church Of Ra banner whenever they have a need to be manifested.

Ever since this momentous occasion, the rise of Amenra has been staggering, a beautiful sight to behold, even if the process always seems preciously volatile. Perhaps by definition of the band's raison d'être itself, such is the emotional charge of every single song on every single release, that one is constantly aware of the finality of it all, not least of which of the band itself. Each Mass can always be the last one, just like every breath we take can be our last. Existence is fleeting, and within that fragility and uncertainty is where we also become aware of its priceless beauty. Few bands have ever translated our tragic human predicament, our heightened sentience, our notion of the limits imposed by our own mortality. 'Mass IIII' (2008), 'Mass V' (2012) and 'Mass VI' (2017) - as it is clear by the lengthy gaps, despite their frequent smaller detours with other kinds of releases and projects, this is a band that only speaks when there is something worthy of being spoken - have each offered profound insights into the souls of their creators, but also into our own. At the same time, they have turned into one of the most imposing of live bands in the history of heavy music, transporting every bit of their emotional burdens to the stage and making each appearance a singular event. Great art always has the capability of applying itself to the beholder, rather than existing only within the artist's sphere. As such, timeless stand-outs from those records such as 'Razoreater', 'Nowena | 9.10' or 'A Solitary Reign' will always have the ability to stun one into silence, tears, screams or rage, depending on the state of the heart at the time of listening, wherever and however they are experienced, whether in contemplative loneliness or among a throng of other devout Mass-goers.

Music writers have long fumbled for words to aptly describe Amenra, from post-metal to post-hardcore to doom, or simply "avant-garde" or "experimental", all of which inevitably feel clunky and supremely reductive. The truth is that, much like one of their biggest influences, Neurosis, one of the most important bands of the last 30 years and whose reach and impact Amenra seem to be matching on this side of the 21st century, without committing to a particular style and trusting only their guts as guide and muse, Amenra have become an entity capable of leaving a real, memorable impression upon everyone they come in contact with, changing their listeners as much as they change themselves throughout time. And the journey still seems far from over.

Words by José Carlos Santos.

Amenra Is:

Colin H. Van Eeckhout - Vocals
Mathieu Vandekerckhove - Guitars
Bjorn Lebon - Drums
Lennart Bossu - Guitars
Tim De Gieter - Bass

(Photo - Stefaan Temmerman)




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Kings of masterful heavy metal parodies, Nanowar Of Stee,l bless the world with yet another spectacular music video, for their new single “Uranus”, featuring none other than glam icon Michael Starr of Steel Panther. Showing off their incredible choreography skills in shiny space suits, Nanowar Of Steel dance their way straight into your heart - and Uranus!

Michael Starr says about the video for “Uranus”: “This video will make your penis bigger with one view. The more times you view it, the bigger your penis will get. You’re welcome. ‘Uranus’ is a must watch video. It’s the only way to have your first eye orgasms. A fun video with a great story line. If you don’t like this song you must be deaf. If you don’t like this video you must be blind.”

Gatto Panceri 666 of Nanowar Of Steel adds about the video for “Uranus”: “I know, this joke has been used and abused since 1781, from the very first day William Herschel discovered this planet. However, being a practicing astronomer and a professional idiot, I felt I had more right to use it as the subject of a song to be dignified with a Lady Gaga-level video (in all humbleness). Perhaps it won't be the most original pun ever, but one thing we can tell you for sure: this joke turned out to be the most expensive one we've ever told so far!”

Nanowar Of Steel celebrates the successful release of their previously sold out 2018 album, Stairway To Valhalla, with an exclusive first ever reissue on vinyl via Napalm Records on December 4, now available for pre-order.

The reissued vinyl edition will be available in two different colors and comes along with a bonus CD as well as yet-unreleased fountains of fun, starting with party smashing “Uranus” featuring Michael Starr. On their forth full-length, the five-piece offers hits such as “The Call Of Cthulhu” and “Barbie, Milf Princess Of The Twilight” featuring Fabio Lione (Turilli/Lione Rhapsody). The bonus CD also contains Nanowar Of Steel’s smashers “Norwegian Reggaeton” and “Valhalleluja” amongst others.

Pre-order the Stairway To Valhalla reissue here.

Tracklisting:

"Declination"
"Barbie, Milf Princess of the Twilight"
"The Call of Cthulhu"
"Heavy Metal Kibbles"
"Il maestro Myiagi di Pino"
"L'opelatole ecologico"
"Images and Swords"
"In the Sky"
"... And Then I Noticed That She Was a Gargoyle"
"Tooth Fairy"
"Vegan Velociraptor"
"Another Drill in the Wall"
"Ironmonger (The Copier of the Seven Keys)"
"Bum Voyage"
"Uranus"
"The Crown and the Onion Ring"
"The Quest for Carrefour"
"Hail to Liechtenstein"
"Uranus" (feat. Michael Starr)

Bonus CD:
"Valhalleluja"
"Sottosegretari alla presidenza della repubblica del True Metal"
"Norwegian Reggaeton"
"Bestie di Seitan"
"Sneeztem of a Yawn"
"A cena da Gianni"
"Kurograd"
"Esce ma non mi rosica" (Shahram Shabpareh Cover)
"Deep Throat Revolution" (Immanuel Casto Cover)
"Norwegian Reggaeton" (Remix)

Nanowar Of Steel are:

Gatto Panceri 666 - Bass
Potowotominimak - Vocals
Mr. Baffo - Vocals
Abdul - Guitar
Uinona Raider - Drums

(Photo - Valerio Fea)




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Sabaton have released a new animated video clip for their song "Night Witches", that was created in collaboration with Yarn Hub. Watch below.

Pär Sundström comments: “I first came into contact with Yarn Hub when a fan recommended a video that was connected to one of our songs and I was impressed by the emotions Yarn Hub delivers in their videos. When Yarn Hub asked if they could feature our singer Joakim in a small cameo I said yes instantly and thought it added such a nice touch to the episode about T.E Lawrence. After that we started to discuss if we could do something together and the idea of 'Night Witches' was born. It was impossible not to become emotional when I saw the animated short film for the first time. This is a different way of telling these stories, but what a fantastic way! Enjoy it friends, this is something special.”

Yarn Hub comments: “Working with Sabaton started when we got permission to do a cameo of Joakim at the grave of Lawrence of Arabia. We're all long time Sabaton fans as they really capture with passion the epic moments of history. Seeing there was no official video for 'Night Witches', we reached out with an idea to the Sabaton management team and graciously were given permission to do a collaboration.

"To be entrusted to do this was a huge honor. In this story we try and capture the hardship that these young women had to overcome and their journey through sacrifice and bravery to become respected by all.... even their enemies. Working with Sabaton's original music was really daunting. For a 7 minute video, playing the original music on loop wasn't going to effectively narrate the entire story, so we wrote some additional music to "extend" the 'Night Witches'. Often for us it's difficult to do a long battle scene with narration, so in this video to use the unadulterated Sabaton music for the battle was an absolute gift.“

About Yarn Hub: Yarn Hub is a small group of artists, animators and musicians that want to make history videos that make you feel a connection to the people in the story. They strive to animate them in a way that honors the epicness of history, rather than just listing facts.  That means original artwork, animation and writing and performing original music in their videos. They have transformed their style since starting out in just 2019 moving from 2D into what is 3D but with a 2D feel.  They are not looking to do photo realism but they are trying to tell stories that convey meaning and emotion as much as they can within the limits of their style.




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Chicago rockers, Trip 6, announce their new album, Spit, releasing on November 6 via Dark Star Records. Kevin Munster from Trip 6 said, "This album is an in your face, hard hitting tribute to all the artists we grew up listening to."

Grim Reaper's Steve Grimmett, "I was looking forward to hearing this Spit from Trip 6 as I had a first hand experience at hearing the boys live for several weeks but I wasn’t ready for this assault on the senses that I got, this hard hitting powerhouse of an album blew me away."

Steve continues with his review on the first single, "'Terrorizer', I like this track because it’s heavy as fuck but also has great melody and drives all the way and this song is right up my street, nice one boys ride until we die!"

Jeffrey A. Swanson / President / Dark Star Records adds, "The new album Spit by Trip 6 is angry and heavy as Hell!"

With major influences such as Black Sabbath, Slayer, Pantera and Motörhead to name a few. Trip 6 is heavy hitting right out of the gates.

With a lineup of Victor Pedraza on drums aka Vulgar Vic… the destroyer of drum sets with his hard pounding beats. He is well known in the music scene and was part of numerous local bands such as D-Connect and then Vulgar. Next to the stage is Chicago’s own Kevin Munster aka The Show.  Born of many homegrown bands such as Gagging Maggots, Mary Janes, The Infamous and Vulgar. If you like a deep throbbing bassline, Kevin is your guy. Many people have compared his style to the famous Geezer Butler. Bringing in the talent of Nate DeVan from Philly... yes Philadelphia adding in creative lyrics and a killer front man style.  You’ll enjoy every song as Nate gives the audience every ounce of energy. Add in Tim Matlock from Bludgeon, Hazardous Youth and Vulgar.  Tim is always bringing it to the stage showcasing his hard core riffs that will grab you instantly. Mix it all up and you get an incredible sound, a modern touch to old school metal...Trip 6.  

Pre-order the new album here. Listen to "Terrorizer" below.

Tracklisting:

"The One"
"Spit"
"Manic"
"Hit Man"
"Push Back"
"Terrorizer"
"Dead To Me"
"Stand Up"
"Hatred"
"Junkie"

"Terrorizer":

Trip 6 is:

Victor Pedraza - drums
Kevin Munster - bass
Nate DeVan - vocals
Tim Matlock - guitar




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Brazil-based animator Val Andrade, famous for his ongoing series of Iron Maiden cartoon clips, has paid tribute to late guitar icon, Eddie Van Halen, who passed away on Tuesday (October 6) at 65 following a long cancer battle.

With the simple message, "Rest In Peace, Eddie Van Halen," Andrade shares this new cartoon:




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Swedish melodic death metal formation, The Unguided, will release their new album, Father Shadow, on October 9 via Napalm Records.

Their third single, “Stand Alone Complex”, re-opens the heavy doors to the band's universe of brutal growls and clean and catchy choruses, attacking the listener’s eardrum at breakneck speeds and sticking in their mind forever. Their third offering showcases another facet of their characteristic symbiosis of melodic death metal mixed with remarkable electronic influences and conspicuous metalcore elements.

Along with a fantasy-inspired audio visual, kicking drums and poignant melodies prepare the world for tomorrow's album release - ready to pull everyone into the depths of The Unguided’s enigmatic sound.

Richard Sjunnesson on the new single “Stand Alone Complex”: "“Stand Alone Complex” is a classic The Unguided song in terms of structure and vibe. And drives the narrative of Seth and Gaia deeper into their coming realization and burden. It was a bit of an underdog song during the pre-production phase but once everything was in place it got new air under its wings and lifted neatly. The intro, with its captivating synth and heavy riffs, is crushing on its own and that last double chorus always gives me the feels.”

With their new full-length, these Nordic heavyweights prove that they can’t be pigeonholed. Eleven quick-tempered, high-voltage pieces indicate that The Unguided have liberated themselves from the shadows of the past but are still aware of their manifold roots. The intoxicating mixture of clean hooklines and classifying screams lead up to a unique symbiosis of pure harshness.

Pre-order Father Shadow here.

With Father Shadow, The Unguided - comprised of the brothers and founders from Sonic Syndicate - break down the barriers between melodic death metal, metalcore and fitting electronic sounds. Clean hooklines explode in classifying screams, leading up to a unique symbiosis of pure harshness. With brutal shouts, an unmistakably catchy chorus and a huge chunk of honest words, "Crown Prince Syndrome" unveils the burden of an innate identity. The perfect symbiosis of Richard Sjunnesson’s forceful vocal pitch and Jonathan Thorpenberg’s clean vocals convinces to the fullest extent. Tracks like the banger “Never Yield” and “War Of Oceans” pierce straight into your eardrums. Let yourself be drawn into the deep, dark underbelly of “Stand Alone Complex”, capturing your mind with ruthlessly harsh drums. “Gaia”, featuring Erik Engstrand, marks a new chapter in the era of The Unguided: harder, faster but always on point. With heavy handed cover versions of their own classic Sonic Syndicate tracks “Jailbreak”, “Denied” and “Jack Of Diamonds”, the four piece also thrives in reminiscence - and reveals a new musical entity. Follow The Unguided into the deep shadows of the past and the abyss of the future.

The Unguided on the new album: “We started to work on the follow up to And the Battle Royale by the end of 2018 after the tour was done. I think that particular album was a lot about figuring out the band’s new identity and writing together after boarding a new member and undeniably it was well received. Father Shadow is all about taking that experience, refining the process and push it to the next level. We have grown together solidly as a band and I think it shows a lot on this album. The songwriters in the band all comes from different schools and write a bit differently musically, on this album everyone got equal airtime just to pump the diversity without losing the feel of the band. Lyrically it pushes the story and concept forward and finally ties up some ends that have been loose since Fragile Immortality (2014), something I think the hardcore fans will appreciate. It was also fun to go back and revisit those old Sonic Syndicate tracks for the bonus material and I think we managed to do our own thing to honor the songs with a mint 2020 production. Utterly we created the songs and album we’d love to listen to ourselves and we succeeded with that and hope you’ll like it as much as we do!”
 
Father Shadow will be available in the following formats:

- 1 CD Digipak
- 2 LP Gatefold Vinyl Black
- 1 CD Digipak + Shirt Bundle

Tracklisting:

"Childhood’s End"
"Never Yield"
"War Of Oceans"
"Breach"
"Where Love Comes To Die"
"Crown Prince Syndrome"
"Fate’s Hand"
"Stand Alone Complex"
"Lance Of Longinus"
"Seth"
"Gaia" feat. Erik Engstrand
"Jailbreak" (Bonus Track / Sonic Syndicate Cover)
"Denied" (Bonus Track / Sonic Syndicate Cover)
"Jack Of Diamonds" (Bonus Track / Sonic Syndicate Cover)

“Never Yield” lyric video:

"Crown Prince Syndrome" video:

Lineup:

Richard Sjunnesson - Vocals
Jonathan Thorpenberg - Vocals / Guitars
Roger Sjunnesson - Guitars
Richard Schill - Drums

(Photo - Patric Ullaeus)




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TesseracT announce the deluxe vinyl reissue of their critically-acclaimed 2013 album Altered State, which is set for release 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. The deluxe set is now available for pre-order, including as exclusive silver and clear editions available only from the band here. White and transparent turquoise editions will also be available on the CM Distro store in Europe, in addition to a standard black edition. Pre-order now here.

 
"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.




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As expected, tributes continue to pour in following the death of guitar legend Eddie Van Halen, who passed away yesterday (October 6) following a long battle with cancer.

Rock Dance Theatre - founded by Anna Achimowicz in Stockholm, Sweden, and based out of Warsaw, Linz, and Stockholm - have released the video below, "in tribute and loving memory of the legendary Eddie Van Halen."

The footage was recorded during Rock Dance Theatre's Austrian premiere performance “Tribute To Rock N Roll” at Lentos Museum “Lange Nacht Der Buhne” in Linz, Austria in 2018.

- Choreography & artistic direction: Anna Achimowicz
- Performance: Rock Dance Theatre
- Video concept: Anna Achimowicz
- Camera: Manfred Kielnfoher, LNDB 2018

KILLER BE KILLED will release its sophomore album, "Reluctant Hero", on November 20 via Nuclear Blast. The second single from the LP, "Dream Gone Bad", can be streamed below.

The supergroup, which is comprised of Max Cavalera (SOULFLY, ex-SEPULTURA), Troy Sanders (MASTODON) Greg Puciato (THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN), and drummer Ben Koller (CONVERGE, ALL PIGS MUST DIE, MUTOID MAN), released its self-titled debut album in 2014 via Nuclear Blast Entertainment.

"Deconstructing Self-Destruction" highlights the outfit's unique approach to vocals, with Cavalera, Puciato and Sanders all lending their voices to not only the single but all of the tracks on "Reluctant Hero".

"This has been a long time coming. It feels great to be getting this out," said Puciato of the Josh Wilbur-produced (LAMB OF GOD, GOJIRA) album."

"Reluctant Hero" track listing:

01. Deconstructing Self-Destruction

02. Dream Gone Bad

03. Left Of Center

04. Inner Calm From Outer Storms

05. Filthy Vagabond

06. From A Crowded Wound

07. The Great Purge

08. Comfort From Nothing

09. Animus

10. Dead Limbs

11. Reluctant Hero

Two years ago, Max confirmed to Metal Underground that KILLER BE KILLED had begun the songwriting process for its second LP. "We already demoed for it; we got 10 songs out of it," he said at the time. "[It came out] fantastic. Troy is more involved, which is what I wanted from the beginning. So that's gonna be great."

Drummer Dave Elitch (ex-THE MARS VOLTA) played on KILLER BE KILLED's first CD but was unable to continue with the band due to scheduling conflicts with his other group, ANTEMASQUE.

For their live debut at the 2015 Soundwave festival in Australia, Cavalera, Sanders, Puciato and Koller were joined by Juan Montoya (MONSTRO, ex-TORCHE), who also performed on the KILLER BE KILLED debut album.

"Killer Be Killed" sold around 5,500 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 58 on The Billboard 200 chart. Released in May 2014, the CD was produced and mixed by Josh Wilbur, whose credits include work with GOJIRA, LAMB OF GOD, HATEBREED, AVENGED SEVENFOLD, ESCAPE THE FATE, P!NK and STEVE EARLE.

Photo credit: Glen La Ferman

Toronto-based rocker Phil Naro (Talas, DDrive) has gone public with the news he has cancer. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist in paying his medical expenses. Following is the message issued with the campaign:

"With every song he sings he touches people’s hearts. Music is his passion and life. He is selfless, humble and has shared his musical gift and brought joy to us throughout his career.

Many of you may not be aware that Phil has undertaken a journey to wellness which began in January of 2020. Currently, he is continuing an ongoing battle with aggressive treatments for a stubborn, invasive tumor that has impacted his ability to perform for an undetermined period of time. Thankfully, and just in time, even while receiving treatment, Phil was able to complete all of his recording sessions for the upcoming Talas and DDrive releases.

As you can imagine, this is also causing a great financial strain for Phil.

If you are able, please consider a donation of any amount to help reduce some of this burden away from Phil during this incredibly arduous journey. We also ask that you please keep Phil in your thoughts & prayers for a successful & swift recovery."

Baroness will release Live at Maida Vale BBC – Vol. II, a limited edition vinyl release featuring four tracks from the band’s Fall 2019 session at the famed London studio, as part of this year’s Record Store Day Black Friday event (November 27, Abraxan Hymns).

The EP was recorded during the band’s European tour in support of Gold & Grey, with Baroness joining BBC Radio 1 Rock Show host Daniel P. Carter and producer Simon Askew at Maida Vale Studios on Sept. 27. Live at Maida Vale BBC – Vol II features black splatter vinyl with an etched b-side, custom artwork created by Baroness’ John Baizley and will retail for $23.98.

Baroness released Live at Maida Valle – BBC in 2013, following the band’s Yellow & Green tour.



Tracklisting:

“Throw Me An Anchor”
“Borderlines”
“I’m Already Gone”
“Tourniquet/Can Obscura”

Frontiers Music Srl has announced the signing of the new Italian symphonic metal band Agarthic to the label's roster. They are currently recording their debut album under the direction of producer Aldo Lonobile (Secret Sphere, Archon Angel, Timo Tolkki’s Avalon). The release is planned for release in 2021.

Based in Northern Italy, Agarthic were founded in 2019 by composer and bassist Mattia Gosetti and vocalist Valeriano De Zordo. The two musicians, tied by a strong friendship, had already worked together several times over the past years, but mostly just some shows and theatrical performances and never a proper band.

Valeriano has been active in several bands in the area of Belluno, singing both covers and original music, which brought him recognition thanks to his melodic timbre and great ability as a performer.

Mattia is a symphonic rock composer, with his works mostly dedicated to the history of land located on the Alps, musical tales that he often presents in theater settings. His deep passion for symphonic rock has always been apparent, but in particular when he and his wife won the "Elan Cover Contest”, an international competition organized by Nightwish.

The band's line up is rounded up by two other talented Italian musicians, Jesai Fiabane on guitar and Denis Novello on drums.

"As a big fan of rock and metal music, I've always followed with great enthusiasm the release of albums by labels. I remember reading album booklets when I was just a kid, dreaming to see my name printed on one of those one day... who would have ever imagined that happening with one of the most important labels of today?" says vocalist Valeriano De Zordo. "For several years, I've been really interested in knowing all the ancient legends and mysteries about the forgotten history of our planet, especially the theories about the hollow earth. I've always been fascinated by it. And when this chance to make an album was offered, the task was quite easy....all I had to do was to combine my two major passions and turn all these themes finally into music!" continues De Zordo.

Adds composer and bassist Mattia Gosetti, "My greatest passion is to write musical stories, to create soundtracks for romantic adventures and fascinating places. I am really proud to have been noticed by a successful label like Frontiers Music, in whose roster there are many of the most famous bands in the world. The enthusiasm for the signing of the contract and the collaboration with Aldo Lonobile, an artist that I have always esteemed and admired, has been fundamental for the realization of this symphonic metal concept. I am experiencing an artistic growth that I would have never hoped for and I will never be grateful enough for all this.”

Agarthic's music is strongly inspired by the nature that surrounds them, in particular by the Dolomites, a mountain range in Italy. Their compositions tell stories of fantasy and mysteries of humanity, a romantic and enveloping soundtrack that will take you on a thrilling journey with cinematic flavor.

Classical guitar virtuoso, Thomas Zwijsen, has released the new video below, featuring his acoustic finger style ukulele cover of Judas Priest's "Painkiller".

Zwijsen previously released an acoustic fingerstyle ukulele covers of Bon Jovi's "You Give Love A Bad Name", and the Dio classic, "Rainbow In The Dark". Watch below:




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In a new interview with the "Cobras & Fire" podcast, JUDAS PRIEST singer Rob Halford explained why he posts so many pictures on his Instagram of him wearing cat-related t-shirts. He said (hear audio below): "I think I have about a hundred cat t-shirts now. I used to have a beautiful kitty cat called Ben, who lived a long life and then suddenly passed, like they all do. It's like losing a family member. But it was kind of difficult, because I'm on the road all the time and there's nobody here at the house.

"As much as it's great sometimes for the cats to go into kitty jail [laughs], kitty vacation, my cat never liked that very much," he explained. "So I'm kind of making up for that with my cat t-shirts every Saturday on my Instagram, which is a lot of fun. I don't know how long that's gonna go on for. I think I'll run of cat shirts [at some point]."

Asked if he has a theory as to why "a lot of heavy metal guys" really like cats, Rob said: "Ooh, yeah. That's very true. I only really started to figure that out [when] I saw things about books of photographs of metal musicians, particularly, with their cats. You get all these really strong guys and they've got their cats. Obviously, it's the power of pets, isn't it? Pet power. But it's great.

"There's a fun thread on Reddit about guys that hate cats, and then somebody brings a cat into the house, and the cat sits on the guy's lap and the guys instantly melts.

"They're beautiful creatures," Halford said. "I think the reason why we like 'em in our metal community is because they're fiercely independent. You think you know your cat, [but] the cat knows you better than you do. And they're so full of character and knocking things off the shelf and looking at you as if to say, 'Look what I can do.' But I love 'em for that. They're beautiful creatures," he repeated.

Halford's autobiography, "Confess", was released on September 29 via Hachette Books. The book has already been described by the U.K.'s The Telegraph as "one of the most candid and surprising memoirs of the year."

The Supreme Court has declined to hear the copyright dispute over whether LED ZEPPELIN's classic song "Stairway To Heaven" was a rip-off of SPIRIT's "Taurus".

In August, the estate of Randy "California" Wolfe filed a petition for a writ of certiorari asking the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a March 2020 ruling by the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco upholding the 2016 trial verdict that found "Stairway To Heaven" was not a copy of "Taurus".

Earlier today (Monday, October 5), Bloomberg Law Supreme Court reporter Kimberly Robinson tweeted: "#SCOTUS won't hear copyright dispute over legendary 'Stairway to Heaven.' No. 20-142 Skidmore v. Led Zeppelin."

Michael Skidmore, the trustee of "Taurus" songwriter Wolfe's estate, had brought the claims more than four decades after "Stairway To Heaven" appeared on LED ZEPPELIN's untitled album, better known as "Led Zeppelin IV".

In June 2016, a Los Angeles jury deliberated for about five hours before deciding unanimously in favor of LED ZEPPELIN. However, a three-judge panel of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals decided in 2018 the trial judge had made a series of errors and ordered a new hearing. Five months ago, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco upheld the 2016 trial verdict.

In a typical year, lawyers file 7,000 to 8,000 petitions for a writ of certiorari, the formal name for a petition asking the Supreme Court to give full review to a lower court's order. According to Vox, the Court typically grants fewer than 80 of these "cert" petitions.

The Wolfe estate argues in the petition for certiorari, filed on Tuesday (August 11): "The [Ninth Circuit] opinion is a disaster for the creatives whose talent is often preyed upon. By the same token, it is a gift to the music industry and its attorneys — enthusiastically received — by a circuit whose own judge once observed: 'Our circuit is the most hostile to copyright owners of all the circuits.'

"The 'court of appeals for the Hollywood Circuit' has finally given Hollywood exactly what it has always wanted: a copyright test which it cannot lose. Portending what is to come, in the days following the decision's filing multiple major copyright rulings have already dramatically favoured industry defendants. The proverbial canary in the coal mine has died; it remains to be seen if the miners have noticed."

Four years ago, LED ZEPPELIN singer Robert Plant testified in court that he had no recollection of ever hearing "Taurus" before. "I didn't remember it then, and I don't remember it now," he said. LED ZEPPELIN guitarist Jimmy Page also testified that he had not copied any part of "Taurus" even though he owned five discs by SPIRIT among his collection of 4,000 vinyl records.

Enrico Bonadio, a senior lecturer in law from City University London, told Newsweek in April 2016: "I don't think that it is appropriate to consider the act of devising a tune that simply has the same 'feel' and 'groove' as another as copyright infringement. This is how music creativity often works. Musicians frequently build upon earlier arrangements and styles, and so the increasing occurrence of cases such as these should give us pause."

After the 2016 trial, plaintiff's attorney Francis Malofiy claimed he lost his case on a technicality, insisting that it was unfair the jury was unable to listen to the sound recording of "Taurus" and instead was limited to hearing an expert performance of the registered sheet music.

Malofiy received over a hundred sustained objections and "multiple admonishments" during the ZEPPELIN trial, with the band's publishing company Warner/Chappell Music filing documents asking the judge to order the plaintiffs to pay over $613,000 in costs for defending against the lawsuit.




#SCOTUS won’t hear copyright dispute over legendary ‘Stairway to Heaven.’ No. 20-142 Skidmore v. Led Zeppelin.

— Kimberly Robinson (@KimberlyRobinsn) October 5, 2020

Colorado-based thrashers, Havok, have released a brand new music video for the song “Fear Campaign”, taken off their current record V, which was released earlier this year.

Havok guitarist/vocalist David Sanchez comments: “Although it was written in 2019, 'Fear Campaign' sounds like it should be the theme song for 2020. The lyrics seem to become more and more relevant as the weeks go by. In the video, we wanted to capture the manic nature of media, propaganda, and other forms of mind control that have plagued civilization for thousands of years. The fear campaign appears to be at an all-time high right now and the only way to end it is to stop being afraid. Reject fear.”

V, Havok’s fifth studio album and relentless follow-up to 2017’s Conformicide effort, was engineered, mixed, mastered by Mark Lewis (Cannibal Corpse, The Black Dahlia Murder, etc.) and showcases stunning artwork by Eliran Kantor (Testament, Hatebreed, etc.). Get your copy here.

Havok is:

Reece Alan Scruggs - Lead Shred
Pete Webber - Lead Drums
David Sanchez - Lead Riffs / Lead Vocals
Brandon Bruce - Lead Bass / Backing Vocals

(Photo - Mark Maryanovich)




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AC/DC has just released "Shot In The Dark", the first single from the band's long-awaited comeback album, "Power Up", which is due on November 13. The follow-up to 2014's "Rock Or Bust" features AC/DC's reunited lineup of Brian Johnson (vocals), Phil Rudd (drums), Cliff Williams (bass), Angus Young (guitar) and Stevie Young (guitar). Johnson and Williams both left in 2016 for health reasons; and Rudd was sidelined in 2015 with various legal issues.

Angus told USA Today about how "Power Up" came together: "I had a lot of material together and our management was wondering if we were thinking about a new album. So it was a case of contacting everyone to see if we'd all be on board."

Angus went on to say that "Power Up" is "a tribute" to his late brother, founding AC/DC rhythm guitarist Malcolm Young, who died in 2017 from effects of dementia at age 64. Malcolm is credited as a writer on all 12 tracks on "Power Up".

"I think he would be proud of the job we've done for him," Angus said. "Even the title we give it, 'Power Up', pretty much sums him up, too. When he put on that guitar, he was one big guitar. To put it this way: When he played guitar, it sounded like there were two people playing."

"Power Up" 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" will be 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 will be pressed on 180-gram vinyl and housed in a gatefold jacket. Limited-edition variants of the LP will be available at select retailers nationwide, as well as the band's online store. The album will be available on all digital platforms.

"Power Up" track listing:

01. Realize

02. Rejection

03. Shot In The Dark

04. Through The Mists Of Time

05. Kick You When You’re Down

06. Witch's Spell

07. Demon Fire

08. Wild Reputation

09. No Man’s Land

10. Systems Down

11. Money Shot

12. Code Red

Photo credit: Josh Cheuse

September 25th marked 25 years since Rammstein emerged from Berlin with its debut album, Herzeleid. To celebrate the anniversary, the RammWiki page on YouTube uploaded restored pro-shot video of the band's daytime set at the Bizarre Festival in 1996. Check it out below.

Setlist:
"Rammstein"
"Der Meister"
"Weisses Fleisch" 
"Asche Zu Asche"
"Seemann"
"Du Riechst So gut"
"Laichzeit"

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.

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"




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EXODUS recently entered the studio in Lake Almanor, California to begin recording its long-awaited new album for a tentative early 2021 release via Nuclear Blast Records.

The San Francisco Bay Area thrashers' next disc will be the follow-up to 2014's "Blood In Blood Out", which was their first release since the departure of the group's lead singer of nine years, Rob Dukes, and the return of Steve "Zetro" Souza, who previously fronted EXODUS from 1986 to 1993 and from 2002 to 2004.

Souza discussed the progress of the recording sessions for EXODUS's new LP in the latest installment of his "Zetro's Toxic Vault" video series.

Speaking about the musical direction of the new EXODUS material, Zetro said (see video below): "This album has everything that a heavy metal fan and EXODUS fan wants. It's very brutal, it's very violent, it's very fast. The lyrics are very aggressive and really deep subject matter. It doesn't disappoint.

"As for [guitarist] Gary Holt, him being the major songwriter and the main songwriter, I feel that he's written an absolute masterpiece — an absolute thrash metal masterpiece. It's got all of the elements that an EXODUS record should have. It's not even done yet, and I'm really already proud of it."

Souza went on to say that he can't reveal any songtitles or other details about the next EXODUS record other that the fact that it is "quite fucking brutal."

"If I was to let you know where I'm at right now vocally, I am two-thirds done through the album," he said. "Actually, I've been kicking ass lately, and the songs are heavy.

"A lot of different Zetro going on on this album, I think. There's a lot of hills and valleys. I explored a lot of different angles, and I think that everybody's gonna really like it.

"I've gotta say, me as being a heavy metal fan, this is a great heavy metal record, man," he reiterated. "To me, it is. And it's not even done. Leads aren't even really on the thing yet, so there's still a lot of work to get done. And [mixer] Andy Sneap has not even gotten it in his hands yet fully. Actually, the only things at this time that are fully done are the drums. So, other than that, we're all still kind of piecing it together. I think Gary just finished his last rhythm — I believe his rhythms are now finished. So it's on to finishing the vocals, playing lead guitar and [bassist] Jack [Gibson] finishing what he has left to do."

EXODUS's next studio album will be the group's first since the completion of SLAYER's final tour. In 2011, Holt began filling in for Jeff Hanneman at SLAYER live shows, and became the band's full-time co-guitarist as of 2013, while remaining a member of EXODUS.

SEVENDUST's Lajon Witherspoon used social media Wednesday (October 7) to let the public he and his wife had suffered the loss of their unborn child.

The singer took to his Instagram to write: "Hey Y'all, As many of the extended @Sevendust family are aware (you know you aren't fans to us, but our family), there was going to be another addition to the Witherspoon family band. We never take these blessings lightly and we know these crazy times present challenges for all of us. Unfortunately, complications arose that we were unable to plan for. Even with the best efforts of everyone involved including my lovely wife Ashley, we lost our precious baby.

"We are so heartbroken. Thankfully Ashley is doing ok and with the support of y'all around us, we will get through this.

"We appreciate the immense outpouring of love that has come our way through this difficult time and for that we just wanted to say thank you from all of us. We love you all and take care of each other."

Lajon and Ashley Witherspoon are the parents of two daughters, Maya Diane and Jada Legend, and a son, Kingston.

Witherspoon grew up in Atlanta, where his father was an R&B musician. He and his family currently reside in Kansas City.

Last month, SEVENDUST announced its first-ever livestream and its only show of 2020: "Sevendust: Live In Your Living Room". The event will take place on October 23 — the release date of the band's 13th studio album, "Blood & Stone", via Rise Records. The show will be live starting at 9:00 p.m. EDT/6:00 p.m. PDT and available globally at the corresponding hour for each territory.

Tickets for the live stream are $17.00 and available here.

The follow-up to 2018's "All I See Is War", "Blood & Stone" was once again tracked at Studio Barbarosa in Gotha, Florida with producer Michael "Elvis" Baskette, who has previously worked with ALTER BRIDGE and SLASH, among others.

Witherspoon has spent the last few years working, on and off, on his upcoming debut solo album. He has been collaborating with multi-instrumentalist Daniel "Sahaj" Ticotin, who contributed to MÖTLEY CRÜE's "The Dirt" soundtrack. Witherspoon released the standalone single "Love Song" in 2017.
























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❤️??❤️a message from The Witherspoon’s

A post shared by Lajon (@ljspoon) on Oct 7, 2020 at 3:47pm PDT

RUSH bassist/vocalist Geddy Lee discussed the band's longevity in a new interview with Canada's National Post.

"We had a long career; we always went our own way; we weren't afraid to laugh at ourselves — that sense of humour was definitely something we made sure was present in our live shows," he said.

"I think the camaraderie we had for so many years — we really were very close friends. Alex [Lifeson, RUSH guitarist] and I still are. I think that struck home with a lot of fans. People like to see long marriages and long relationships, people who work together without acrimony. Maintaining that civility and friendship, I think appealed to people because everyone wishes to be in that kind of situation."

Lee also talked about the possibility of new music in the not-too-distant future.

"It's interesting, I recently re-released my album [his 2000 solo album 'My Favourite Headache'] on vinyl and that forced me to listen to it again. I'm very proud of it — it's a very intricate record, a deep record, and a lot of love and passion went into it. It did get me thinking that one day I'd like to take that on the road, so you never know. But I have no firm plans to do anything right now. It's not a time when one can plan much, so only time will tell if that comes to fruition."

Asked about the existence of any unreleased RUSH songs that could see the light of day, Geddy said: "There's actually not much in the vaults. We were a band that used what we wrote and if we didn't like what we were writing, we stopped writing it. So there are really no unreleased RUSH songs that were worth a damn. Recording our songs was so difficult and ambitious that we didn't do extra stuff and pick the best."

RUSH drummer Neil Peart died on January 7 in Santa Monica, California after a three-year battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. He was 67 years old.

RUSH announced Peart's passing on January 10, setting off shockwaves and an outpouring of grief from fans and musicians all over the world.

RUSH's final show took place at the Forum in Los Angeles on August 1, 2015. Peart indicated at the time that he wanted to retire while he was still able to play well, along with a desire to spend more time at home with his young daughter.

Geddy's book "Geddy Lee's Big Beautiful Book Of Bass" was released in December 2018.

Sammy Hagar says that he had been secretly in contact with Eddie Van Halen in the months leading up to the legendary guitarist's death.

Hagar, who previously said he hadn't spoken to Eddie since since the conclusion of VAN HALEN's 2004 reunion tour, revealed his renewed friendship with his former bandmate in a note which was read over the air this morning (Wednesday, October 6) by radio personality Howard Stern on his SiriusXM show.

Hagar wrote: "Eddie and I had been texting, and it's been a love fest since we started communicating earlier this year. We both agreed not to tell anyone, because of all the rumors it would stir up about a reunion, et cetera, and we both knew that wasn't gonna happen. But he also didn't want anyone to know about his health."

Sammy continued: "He stopped responding to me a month ago, and I figured it wasn't good. I reached out one more time last week, and when he didn't respond, I figured it was a matter of time. But it came way too soon."

Hagar replaced David Lee 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.

Sammy, Eddie, drummer Alex Van Halen and bassist Michael 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.

This past May, Hagar told Rolling Stone that he was very optimistic about the possibility of a reunion with his VAN HALEN bandmates. "I foresee it happening," he said. "I'm not trying to plant a seed like I know something is happening. I know nothing. I just know what I know in my heart and my head, which is that it has to happen. Whether it's Sam and Dave or not, I don't know that either," referring to the prospect of both him and original VAN HALEN frontman David Lee Roth the stage with Eddie, Alex and Wolfgang Van Halen. "But I know that Eddie and I are not done. If enough water goes under the bridge before we die, it'll happen. It has to. God is going to slap us both around if he has to."

Sammy went on to say that he didn't agree with Roth's recent assessment that the band was "finished."

"Until Ed or Alex Van Halen die, they're not finished," the 72-year-old rocker told Rolling Stone. "Those are two great musicians that can friggin' do as good as most people at half-mast. As a drummer and as a guitarist and creative person, Eddie, I can't see them ever being finished. I wish they were more active, but I think VAN HALEN will never be finished.

"If they want to get it together, they just have to call Dave or have to call Sammy," he added. "They can go out with [Eddie's son] Wolfie as a trio, but that's not the legacy of VAN HALEN. I think they know that."

Early last year, rumors were rampant that the classic-era lineup of VAN HALEN would reunite for the first time since 1984. It's unclear why the tour didn't happen, though there has been online chatter that a health setback involving Eddie might have been responsible.

Eddie died on Tuesday (October 6) at the age of 65. The legendary VAN HALEN guitarist died at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, California. His wife, Janie, was by his side, along with his son, Wolfgang, and Alex, Eddie's brother and VAN HALEN drummer.

Eddie died from complications due to cancer, his son confirmed.

The guitarist was diagnosed with mouth cancer in 2000 and had tongue surgery. He was later diagnosed with throat cancer and reportedly had been receiving radiation treatment in Germany.

Former WHITESNAKE guitarist Adrian Vandenberg has paid tribute to Eddie Van Halen, who died on Tuesday (October 6) at the age of 65. The legendary VAN HALEN guitarist died at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, California. His wife, Janie, was by his side, along with his son, Wolfgang, and Alex, Eddie's brother and VAN HALEN drummer.

Adrian wrote on Instagram: "As everybody will have heard or read by now Eddie (Edward) Van Halen passed away yesterday.

"What a huge loss. Without a doubt one of the absolute greatest and most influential musicians of all time. Millions of guitar players, in the rock field or not, have been influenced by his playing, directly or indirectly. In that respect he was the natural successor to Jimi Hendrix in my opinion, a true pioneer.

"There are so many elements and colours to Eddie's playing; blues, rock, jazz and classical and that whole cocktail bounces out of the speakers, always sparkling with an incredibly dynamic expressiveness. For a player who was seen as a 'rock guitarist' his playing smoothly transcended all genres, proven by Eddie's fluid solo in Michael Jackson's 'Beat It'. Eddie made it seem so effortless, always with that endearing, almost childish smile on his face he'd play stunning solos with an amazing, rock solid sense of timing. I've always felt that because of his explosive solo's his fantastic, tasteful rhythm playing has often been overlooked. His choice and placement of chords, untwined with tasty, fluid licks are just as unique as his solos. I could go on and on.

"Edward Van Halen has a more than well deserved top spot in music history among the all time greats and leaves behind a timeless body of work as a musician, composer and performer. One of a kind.

"R.I.P. Eddie, you'll never be forgotten..

"P.S. Dammit...#eddievanhalen #eddievanhalenrip".

Eddie died from complications due to cancer, his son confirmed.

The guitarist was diagnosed with mouth cancer in 2000 and had tongue surgery. He was later diagnosed with throat cancer and reportedly had been receiving radiation treatment in Germany.

Vandenberg was a member of WHITESNAKE for 13 years at the height of the band's fame, contributing the solo on the group's No. 1 hit "Here I Go Again".
























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As everybody will have heard or read by now Eddie(Edward) Van Halen passed away yesterday. What a huge loss.. Without a doubt one of the absolute greatest and most influential musicians of all time. Millions of guitar players, in the rock field or not, have been influenced by his playing, directly or indirectly. In that respect he was the natural successor to Jimi Hendrix in my opinion, a true pioneer. There are so many elements and colours to Eddie’s playing; blues, rock, jazz and classical and that whole cocktail bounces out of the speakers, always sparkling with an incredibly dynamic expressiveness. For a player who was seen as a ‘rock guitarist’ his playing smoothly transcended all genres, proven by Eddie’s fluid solo in Michael Jackson’s ‘Beat It’. Eddie made it seem so effortless, always with that endearing, almost childish smile on his face he’d play stunning solos with an amazing, rock solid sense of timing. I’ve always felt that because of his explosive solo’s his fantastic, tasteful rhythm playing has often been overlooked. His choice and placement of chords, untwined with tasty, fluid licks are just as unique as his solos. I could go on and on.. Edward Van Halen has a more than well deserved top spot in music history among the all time greats and leaves behind a timeless body of work as a musician, composer and performer. One of a kind. R.I.P. Eddie, you’ll never be forgotten.. P.S. Dammit...?#eddievanhalen #eddievanhalenrip

A post shared by Adrian Vandenberg (@adrianvandenberg_official) on Oct 7, 2020 at 12:35am PDT

Legendary DEEP PURPLE and RAINBOW guitarist Ritchie Blackmore has paid tribute to Eddie Van Halen, who passed away on Tuesday (October 6) at the age of 65.

Blackmore said in a statement: "Eddie Van Halen was a brilliant guitarist who started a technique of guitar playing which was emulated by a whole generation of guitarists. He was one of the nicest musicians I ever met in the music business. Very shy and not at all conceited about his ability as a guitar player.

"Frank Zappa said [Eddie] reinvented the guitar. I agree.

"He will be sadly missed but his brilliant legacy will always be remembered. The ultimate guitar hero."

Eddie died at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, California. His wife, Janie, was by his side, along with his son, Wolfgang, and Alex, Eddie's brother and VAN HALEN drummer.

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

After undergoing hip replacement surgery in 1999 due to a chronic joint problem, Eddie was diagnosed with mouth cancer in 2000 and had to have part of his tongue surgically removed. He later battled throat cancer and reportedly had been receiving radiation treatment in Germany. It is believed that his heavy smoking over the years led to his long battle with cancer.

Iconic producer Quincy Jones has paid tribute to Eddie Van Halen, who passed away on Tuesday (October 6) at the age of 65.

Jones and Van Halen famously worked together when Eddie made a guest appearance on Michael Jackson's masterpiece album "Thriller". He was a surprise guest on "Beat It", the LP's third single. According to CNN, his blazing guitar solo lasted all of 20 seconds and took half an hour to record. He did it for free, as a favor to Jones, while the rest of his VAN HALEN bandmates were out of town.

Earlier today (Wednesday, October 7), Quncy tweeted: "RIP to the GREAT @eddievanhalen . Even though it took a couple calls to convince U it was actually me on the phone :) U killed it on Thriller, & your classic Guitarsolo on Beat It will never be matched. I'll always smile when I think of our time working together. Eternal Red heart & props."

Eddie spoke about his "Beat It" recording session in a 2012 interview with CNN.

"I said to myself, 'Who is going to know that I played on this kid's record, right? Nobody's going to find out,'" he recalled. "Wrong! Big-time wrong. It ended up being Record Of The Year."

Eddie died from complications due to cancer, his son confirmed.

The guitarist was diagnosed with mouth cancer in 2000 and had tongue surgery. He was later battling throat cancer and reportedly had been receiving radiation treatment in Germany.




RIP to the GREAT @eddievanhalen. Even though it took a couple calls to convince U it was actually me on the phone :) U killed it on Thriller, & your classic ?solo on Beat It will never be matched. I’ll always smile when I think of our time working together. Eternal ❤️ & props.

— Quincy Jones (@QuincyDJones) October 7, 2020

Michael Schenker has paid tribute to Eddie Van Halen, who passed away on Tuesday (October 6) at the age of 65. The legendary VAN HALEN guitarist died at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, California. His wife, Janie, was by his side, along with his son, Wolfgang, and Alex, Eddie's brother and VAN HALEN drummer.

Schenker wrote on social media: "Hi Eddie,

"You were the BEST of our generation. I am so sorry you have gone.

My condolences to your loved ones.

"I miss you, but like my partner said to me: 'You have gone to a better place.'

"Rest In Peace, my friend!

"I will always remember and treasure when we met in Germany in the late '70's when I came with the SCORPIONS to see your show. Can't never forget the lovely times we spend together in your dressing room.

"My highest respect for your incredible guitar playing, sound, melodies, your sense of rhythm, your amazing entertaining abilities and everything else. You were a complete, fantastic, all round amazing guitarist.

"God bless you and keep you in good care."

Eddie died from complications due to cancer, his son confirmed.

The guitarist was diagnosed with mouth cancer in 2000 and had tongue surgery. He was later battling throat cancer and reportedly had been receiving radiation treatment in Germany.




Hi Eddie,

You were the BEST of our generation.

I am so sorry you have gone.

My condolences to your loved ones.

I miss you, but like my partner said to me: "You have gone to a better place."

Rest In Peace, my friend! pic.twitter.com/YaT7rpuo4s

— Michael Schenker (@MW_Schenker) October 7, 2020








I will always remember and treasure when we met in Germany in the late '70's when I came with the Scorpions

to see your show. Can't never forget the lovely times we spend together in your dressing room.

— Michael Schenker (@MW_Schenker) October 7, 2020








My highest respect for your incredible guitar playing, sound, melodies, your sense of rhythm, your amazing entertaining abilities and everything else. You were a complete, fantastic, all round amazing guitarist.

God bless you and keep you in good care.

— Michael Schenker (@MW_Schenker) October 7, 2020