With over 830 million all-time streams, No. 1-charting albums, multiple sold-out headlining tours across the globe, appearances at major festivals worldwide, recognition from top government agencies and officials, and collaborations with some of rock's biggest names, THE HU have brought Mongolian music to the forefront with their innovative brand of "Hunnu Rock." They will now bring their unparalleled and immersive performance to audiences across North America as they join forces with rock legends IRON MAIDEN as direct support on their "The Future Past" arena tour starting tonight, October 4 in San Diego, California. THE HU have paid tribute to IRON MAIDEN by today releasing a cover version of one of the band's most popular songs, "The Trooper", which AllMusic described as "an all-time genre classic."

THE HU founding member, lead throat singer and Morin Khuur musician Gala excitedly states: "THE HU is thrilled to be on IRON MAIDEN's 'Future Past' tour in North America. For us, this tour represents an important milestone for the Mongolian music industry and a historical step towards world stage. As a special thank you, and out of huge respect as fans of the band, we covered their legendary song 'The Trooper' and are happy to be sharing that with you ahead of this tour!"

THE HU will also perform a series of headlining shows throughout the tour with special guests THE FUNERAL PORTRAIT.

THE HU released a live recording of their groundbreaking debut performance at the legendary Glastonbury festival in Somerset, U.K. in 2023, "The Hu Live At Glastonbury", earlier this year via Better Noise Music. It includes popular tracks from their 2019 breakthrough debut "The Gereg" — which debuted at No. 1 on the World Album and Top New Artist charts — and its 2022 follow-up album "Rumble Of Thunder", both released via Better Noise Music.

THE HU have received critical acclaim from the likes of Billboard, NPR, GQ, The Guardian, The Independent, Revolver and even Sir Elton John himself. In addition to collaborations with some of rock's top artists such as Serj Tankian (SYSTEM OF A DOWN),William DuVall (ALICE IN CHAINS),Jacoby Shaddix (PAPA ROACH),Lzzy Hale (HALESTORM) and Daniel "DL" Laskiewicz (BAD WOLVES),THE HU has also explored eclectic ways to reach audiences with their sound including recording music for EA Games' "Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order" and being featured in its soundtrack as well as being in the soundtrack for the horror-thriller "The Retaliators", along with appearing in the film.

Photo credit: Blguunee Hiroshi

MÖTLEY CRÜE has just released the "Cancelled" EP. The three-song effort contains the title track, MÖTLEY CRÜE's cover version of the BEASTIE BOYS classic "(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party!)" and "Dogs Of War", which was made available in April. All three songs were recorded in April 2023 with longtime producer Bob Rock.

"It was really great getting in the studio and working on some tracks together," MÖTLEY CRÜE offered in a joint statement. "What started out as a couple demo ideas turned into this EP produced by Bob Rock. We look forward to getting back into the studio again soon and writing more new music, as well."

MÖTLEY CRÜE's version of "Fight For Your Right" has quickly become a fan favorite since the band first debuted the song live during their secret 2023 club show at The Underworld in London, U.K. At its premiere, 450 lucky, sweat-drenched fans who came out to see a band advertised as DÖGS OF WAR got the surprise of a lifetime when MÖTLEY CRÜE took the stage with the BEASTIE BOYS classic in their set list.

The veil of speculation surrounding the DÖGS OF WAR pseudonym was finally lifted when the band released their first new single since 2019 by the "Dogs Of War" name in the spring of 2024. "Dogs Of War" subsequently became a Top 5 Rock Radio hit, accompanied by a highly acclaimed music video by director Nick DenBoer. The cutting-edge visual, which is entirely CGI-based, features the members of MÖTLEY CRÜE navigating an exhilarating post-apocalyptic world.

"Cancelled" EP track listing:

01. Cancelled (Tommy Lee, Nikki Sixx, John Lowery)
02. Dogs Of War (Tommy Lee, Nikki Sixx, John Lowery)
03. Fight For Your Right (Adam Horovitz, Rick Rubin, Adam Yauch)

You can hear the "Cancelled" title track below. Also available is a guitar playthrough of the song by John 5.

MÖTLEY CRÜE drummer Tommy Lee told Bill Maher's "Club Random" podcast last year that he and his bandmates felt inspired to write a song called "Cancelled" because they were surprised it never happened to them.

"There was this article that was like, 'How did MÖTLEY CRÜE ever not get cancelled?'" he said. "And we were like, 'Fuck, we've gotta write a song about that because we didn't ever get it.' We snuck in under the whatever threshold, wherever that was, where we got away with fucking murder."

The "Cancelled" EP was made available via MÖTLEY CRÜE's new deal with Nashville's Big Machine Records

MÖTLEY CRÜE's deal with Big Machine sees the band and the label working together again after making the 2014 project "Nashville Outlaws: A Tribute To Mötley Crüe", which featured CRÜE tracks covered by country stars RASCAL FLATTS, FLORIDA GEORGIA LINE, Darius Rucker and more. Big Machine also partnered with MÖTLEY CRÜE's new guitarist John 5 for the release of his 2021 album "Sinner".

MÖTLEY CRÜE's last studio album was 2008's "Saints Of Los Angeles", which was followed by a 2009 "Greatest Hits" compilation.

In 2018, MÖTLEY CRÜE recorded four new songs for "The Dirt" movie, including the single "The Dirt (Est. 1981) (Feat. Machine Gun Kelly)", "Ride With The Devil", "Crash And Burn" and the band's own spin on Madonna's "Like A Virgin".

John 5 joined MÖTLEY CRÜE in the fall of 2022 as the replacement for the band's co-founding guitarist Mick Mars. Mick announced his retirement from touring with MÖTLEY CRÜE in October 2022 as a result of worsening health issues.

In a recent interview with Janne Innanfors of the Swedish radio station Rockklassiker, MÖTLEY CRÜE bassist Nikki Sixx stated about the mixed response to "Dogs Of War" from the band's fans: "We like the fact that there was kind of a knee-jerk reaction, because at least people were listening. It's a very strange time now where, whether it's a news cycle or socials, everybody has turned into a critic. And I always say, they've never erected a statue of a critic. It's never happened, right? It's always the artist. But now everybody's a critic. So within a short amount of time, we get, 'We love it.' 'We hate it.' 'You're over.' 'You've reinvented yourself.' 'It sounds like 'Shout At The Devil'. 'It sucks.' And we just kind of sit there and go, 'That's cool, guys, but we didn't really ask for any input from you.' We're just artists writing music, and we're pretty cool. I'm happy with it. I like it."

During an appearance on SiriusXM Fight Nation's "Busted Open" show, Sixx discussed the musical direction of "Dogs Of War", saying: "A lot of people said it's a different sound, but I'll be honest with you, I don't necessarily agree with that. If you listen to the verses, they're very similar to a lot of stuff that we've done — that simple, grinding thing with those almost CHEAP TRICK melodies. And the riff, I mean, it could be off of 'Dr. Feelgood'. So I don't really feel like it's that different. I think what's different for people is that when we were working on the song, Tommy [Lee, CRÜE drummer] had the idea to just let the bottom fall out in the verses, which is not really what we do. We usually go for it, and [it's] really unique for Vince [Neil, CRÜE singer]."

Vince chimed in: "I don't ever sing like that. But it works in the song." He added that "Dogs Of War" "was very easy to sing."

Nikki elaborated on the CRÜE songwriting process, saying: "I think what we do together is we all kind of know each other so well, we know each other's strengths and weaknesses. And for me as a lyricist, I'm always thinking about Vince and his tempo as I write. So it's not like out of the wheelhouse, but it's nice to know each other so well, if that makes sense."

When "Dogs Of War" was first released, Neil described the track as "like old school meets new school. It's got that old-school vibe about it, but it's new music. Nikki came up with it and he sent me the music and I thought it was really cool. So I started singing it and we got in the studio and it turned into the song I think the fans are really gonna like it."

Earlier this week, MÖTLEY CRÜE announced "The Las Vegas Residency", a spate of 11 shows at Dolby Live at Park MGM set to take place in March and April 2025. The band will perform March 28-29, April 2, 4-5, 9, 11-12, 16 and 18-19. All shows start at 8 p.m.

MÖTLEY CRÜE will return to its roots with shows at three famous Los Angeles clubs next week. The band will perform at The Troubadour on October 7, The Roxy on October 9 and the Whisky A Go Go on October 11 as part of their "Höllywood Takeöver".

Photo credit: Ross Halfin

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After the surprise drop of their latest single "Dream Stealer" on July 31, Swedish/Canadian/American extreme metal titans ARCH ENEMY are back with more exciting news. The band will release its twelfth studio album, "Blood Dynasty", on March 28, 2025 via Century Media Records.

ARCH ENEMY founder and guitarist Michael Amott shares: "This new album pushes the boundaries of what we've done before — it's everything you've come to expect from this band, and then some! We can't wait for you to hear it and feel the energy we've poured into every track. Welcome to the 'Blood Dynasty'!"

"Blood Dynasty" track listing:

01. Dream Stealer
02. Illuminate the Path
03. March Of the Miscreants
04. A Million Suns
05. Don't Look Down
06. Presage
07. Blood Dynasty
08. Paper Tiger
09. Vivre Libre
10. The Pendulum
11. Liars & Thieves

Next to the limited deluxe editions that feature two exclusive bonus tracks, fans can direct their attention to the limited liquid blood vinyl that is exclusively available in the band stores and limited to 666 copies.

"Dream Stealer" marked ARCH ENEMY's first new music since the release of the "Deceivers" album, which came out in August 2022.

"Dream Stealer" was mixed by Jens Bogren and mastered by Tony Lindgren at Fascination Street Studios. The video was directed and produced by Patric Ullaeus.

Two months ago, Amott told Pulp Magazine about "Dream Stealer" and ARCH ENEMY's plans for new music: "We've been staying busy for sure and are really focused on writing and recording new stuff in between the touring we're doing. I'm kind of always coming up with new musical and lyrical ideas though — I just keep going as it's what I enjoy doing anyway. Making music is a natural process, and it's pretty much a daily thing, so it can be hard to pinpoint exactly when everything was conceived. I do, however, actually remember that the initial seed for 'Dream Stealer' was written during a songwriting session I did with Daniel [Erlandsson, drums] in Los Angeles, California, two years ago, and then it's been rearranged and updated a lot till it reached its final state that you're now hearing."

Asked if it was a conscious decision to go back to the "classic ARCH ENEMY" direction and approach with "Dream Stealer", Amott said: "I've seen some seriously great feedback from the fans, and that's always very encouraging, of course. Personally, I don't know if I’d necessarily say 'Dream Stealer' is a throwback to the sound of the past, but I get what they mean — the song has the energy and speed that is very exciting and infectious. Maybe there is a hint of vintage ARCH ENEMY in there, and why not? I'm looking forward to playing it live on stage — I think it is going to be intense as hell."

In October, ARCH ENEMY will embark on the "Rising From The North" co-headline tour with Swedish melodic death metal pioneers IN FLAMES, as well as special guests SOILWORK, before they head over to Mexico for another extensive headline run.

ARCH ENEMY played its first concert with new guitarist Joey Concepcion on April 24 at Musinsa Garage in Seoul, South Korea. The show was part of ARCH ENEMY's 2024 Asian tour.

Last December, ARCH ENEMY announced that it had "amicably" parted ways with longtime guitarist Jeff Loomis.

Jeff, who was the main songwriter in his previous group, NEVERMORE, joined ARCH ENEMY in late 2014, but was not involved in the writing for the latter act's last two albums, 2017's "Will To Power" and the aforementioned "Deceivers".

ARCH ENEMY is:

Alissa White-Gluz - Vocals
Michael Amott - Guitar
Joey Concepcion - Guitar
Sharlee D'Angelo - Bass
Daniel Erlandsson - Drums

Photo credit: Patric Ullaeus

Powerhouse metal outfit, Sylosis, have surprise released their new EP, The Path, ahead of their upcoming co-headlining tour with Fit For An Autopsy.





On the release of the The Path, Josh Middleton comments: “When we were working on ASOTTC we amassed a lot of material. It was a very creative period and the songs that didn’t make it onto ASOTTC were by no means below standard - far from it! We’re extremely excited to share with you The Path EP. Some of our best material to date! We hope you enjoy it”

Threshold are excited to announce the release of newly remixed editions of their first four groundbreaking albums: Clone, Extinct Instinct, Wounded Land and Psychedelicatessen. The albums have been meticulously revisited by guitarist Karl Groom and keyboardist Richard West, bringing these early classics into the modern era with enhanced sonic clarity while preserving their original power and intricacy.


These remixed versions are available on CD and limited edition vinyl, with exclusive transparent color variants for each album. Get yours here.


Limited-Edition Vinyl Releases:




- Clone: Clear Orange 2LP
- Extinct Instinct: Clear Yellow
- Wounded Land: Transparent Green
- Psychedelicatessen: Transparent Violet














To celebrate the re-release of Clone, the band has also dropped a brand-new lyric video for the track "Freaks", featuring the remixed audio from the album.


The song holds a special place in Threshold's history as one of the first tracks written for Clone, and it marks a pivotal moment when Mac (Andrew "Mac" McDermott) joined the band.


Karl Groom on 'Freaks': "‘Freaks’ was one of the first songs written for Clone and was a starting point for Mac joining Threshold. We’re looking forward to playing this on our upcoming tour."


Richard West added: "It’s amazing to be releasing ‘Freaks’ as a single again over a quarter of a century after it first came out. It was the first song we released after Mac joined the band, a

Today, Impellitteri proudly shares a new single, "Power Grab", an electrifying, pounding track, accompanied by a new music video, available below. The band's new album, War Machine, drops November 8 via Frontiers Music Srl.


With legions of fans worldwide, Impellitteri is known for exciting music, addictive riffs, and mesmerizing melodies. War Machine features guitar hero Chris Impellitteri’s guitar virtuosity and lead singer Rob Rock’s vocal range powered by the incredible rhythmic foundation of bassist James Pulli, and former Slayer drummer Paul Bostaph.


With War Machine, the Impellitteri band presents a mind-blowing, highly energetic, and thrilling new musical adventure.




About the new track, Chris comments: "It is the tale of a superpower nation wanting sovereignty at all costs! Lies, manipulation of fact, and a disregard for human life to achieve supremacy! The riff definitely has that Tony Iommi / vintage Black Sabbath feel with a very aggressive rhythm section layered with Rob Rock pushing his vocal range, which creates a high degree of tension similar to war! Many of our fans know me and Rob for the guitar shredding and screaming vocals, but Paul Bostaph and James Pulli kick ass on this album, and they definitely make this new music swing no matter how fast, technical, or heavy we play! I must also say Paul Bostaph came into this record and delivered big time with his drumming style! Paul plays some of the greatest Tom fills I have heard!"


Watch the video for "Power Grab":





To date, Impellitteri has sold 2 million+ records worldwide and has performed on the same stages as Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Journey, and more. The band has been featured on multiple magazine covers, television, radio, and internet shows. In its glorious past, Impellitteri was also featured on MTV, VH1, and Headbangers Ball.


Chris is an iconic guitar player and a huge inspiration for many players. He has been named one of the fastest guitar players of all time by magazines like Guitar One and Guitar World, while Burrn! Japan, voted Chris as the best rock guitarist. In 2023, Impellitteri was inducted into the Heavy Metal Hall Of Fame.


With War Machine, the band delivers one of their best albums to date. From the opening riff of the title track to songs like “Out Of Mind (Heavy Metal)” and “Hell On Earth”, the album is a manifest of bone-crushing riffs, hyper-technical solos, and anthemic choruses.


Chris on the album: “This new album has been an absolute thrill to make with my friends Rob Rock, James Pulli, Paul Bostaph, and our engineers Mike Plotnikoff, Jun Murakawa, and Jacob Hansen! This music expresses where we are today as a band emotionally and technically! This is probably the most sincere album we have made because we just played music that moved us emotionally without chasing any trends or other bands. We definitely played our asse

True Norwegian black metal horde, 1349, will be releasing their eighth full-length, The Wolf And The King, tomorrow, October 4, via Season of Mist. The band is now streaming the record in its entirety ahead of tomorrow's release! Listen below.


1349 comments, "We have come to our journey’s end. We knew that only our strongest, darkest and most dedicated effort would enable us to reach our destination. Yet here we stand. A vast darkness is what lies in front of us. Where our voyage ends, yours begin. We bring no light but Hellfire itself."







The forthcoming offering was mastered by Jarrett Prichard and produced and mixed by Prichard & 1349 frontman Ravn at New Constellation R.M.P.


Pre-order The Wolf And The King here. The cover artwork was created by Jordan Barlow and can be found below, along with the tracklisting.





The Wolf And The King tracklisting:


"The God Devourer"
"Ash Of Ages"
"Shadow Point"
"Inferior Pathways"
"Inner Portal"
"The Vessel And The Storm"
"Obscura"
"Fatalist"


"The God Devourer" video:





"Shadow Point" video:





In addition, 1349 is now spreading hellfire across Europe with support from Kampfar and Afsky. Tickets can be found here.


1349 is not like other bands. It’s not a group of friends who decided to make music together. 1349 is a band formed with a unified vision and specific purpose: To maintain the legacy of black metal.


“I didn’t like the direction that black metal took in the mid part of the ’90s,” 1349 vocalist and mastermind Ravn recalls. “It started losing everything that I liked about black metal—the grimness, the eeriness, the primal emotions that captivated me and brought me into that sphere. You had all these synthesizer-based bands dressing up in pirate shirts and looking like goths. It ruined something that I truly hold close to my heart.”


In 1997, Ravn formed 1349 and recruited bassist Seidemann and, now former, guitarist Tjalve to help him pursue the vision of recapturing the original spirit of black metal. The longstanding lineup of Ravn, Seidemann, guitarist Archaon, and drummer Frost (also of Satyricon) has been in place since 2001. “I found people that felt the same way as me,” Ravn says of his bandmates. “We wanted to bring back the trademark of Norwegian black metal, as it was presented in the early 90s. Every time we release an album, that’s the inspiration and the backdrop.”


The Wolf And The King is the latest sortie in that crusade.1349’s eighth album sees the Oslo-based band harnessing the primordial energy of black metal’s decade-defining second wave and channeling it through ancient mysteries and the relentless global chaos of the 2020s.


The album title comes from a classic alchemical allegory: A wolf devours a king. Then the wolf is devoured by flames, and a new king rises from the ashes. “When I first heard about alchemy when I was young, it was people turning metal into gold,” Ravn says. “Further down the road, through various literatures and magical practices, I realized that what you’re turning into gold is metaphorical. It’s about personal development, basically. You want to be the best you can be, and that’s what we try to do as well. We try to top ourselves, to kill our egos in order to grow as persons. If you don’t do that, you will die. You will not rise from the ashes.”


Lead single “Ash of Ages” combines thrash with extreme metal flourishes and a proper doomsday theme. “The song is based on a story I read about a layer of ash that covered the Earth 12,000 years ago,” Ravn explains. “This layer of ash comes from a meteorite that struck the Earth during the Ice Age. It melted a lot of the ice, which is where the Great Flood came from. The Great Flood is in the Bible, but it was written about in every ancient culture. The theory is that it washed away a lot of other ancient cultures that held a higher intelligence level than those that were found after the flood. So, it possibly set human civilization back many thousands of years.”


Released as a one-sided maxi-12” with a flipside etching by Jordan Barlow—who did all the artwork for The Wolf And The King (as well as the band’s 2019 album, The Infernal Pathway)—“Ash of Ages” is also a warning to check your ego. “To think that you’re important, that you’re anything but an ant down there, is futile,” Ravn points out. “In the end, everything will be washed away, and nothing will be left.”


“Shadow Point” comes complete with a video and revisits the sonic domain of The Infernal Pathway with a classic headbanger groove. “This one references the Star of Algol, or ‘the Demon Star,’” Ravn offers. “It’s actually two stars that revolve around each other, and the small one is devouring the big one. Human beings have seen this star from early ages, and it has had many names over the years. It’s a known part of the magical world, so I wanted to include it in a song.”


Shot through with menace and a snaky groove, album opener “The God Devourer” will also have a video. “The lyrics are based on the alchemical principle of devouring all that you feel is in your way

Luminare Christmas!, the acclaimed holiday music sensation known for their innovative take on Christmas classics, shares the new single, "Carol Of The Bells," from their forthcoming debut album Mistletoe Madness, out on November 22 via Frontiers Music Srl.


Get ready for an unforgettable holiday experience, led by former Mannheim Steamroller keyboardist and longtime musical director for Dennis DeYoung of Styx. Luminare Christmas! brings a fusion of reimagined holiday classics, high energy symphonic rock and cinematic magic.


Preorder Mistletoe Madness here.




Their sound can be described as a blend of Mannheim Steamroller’s holiday classic vibes, the high-energy rock of Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and the cinematic atmosphere of Hans Zimmer. The result is a musical fusion that’s sure to leave you breathless and wanting more.


With a phenomenal lighting show and a heartwarming story woven throughout the performance, Luminare Christmas! creates a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for all ages. You’ll feel the holiday spirit and be swept away by the passionate and sonically lush vocal and instrumental musical performances. 


Unleash your festive side and experience the exhilarating energy of a high-octane holiday rock concert with Luminare Christmas!, the ultimate celebration!





Tracklisting:


“The Light That Shines”
“Mistletoe Madness”
“Oh Holy Knight”
“Carol Of The Bells”
“Toy Soldiers”
“Like A Child”
“A Ray Of Hope”
“Winter”
“His Majesty”
“You Look Like Christmas”


"Carol Of The Bells":

Metal on Metal Records have announced the details about the eighth studio album of Texas metal titans Ignitor titled Horns And Hammers, slated for the release on October 3.


"Expect nothing less than a top-notch mix of US power metal with classic heavy metal and NWOBHM influences, with distinct style and arrangements on the same level as, if not higher than on their last album. It's simply a must-hear for all fans of '80s metal, and in particular of bands such as Attacker, Dio, Riot, Saxon, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Accept, Jag Panzer and Raven." 


"Robert (Williams, guitars) brought a ton of songs and riff ideas to the table and Billy (Dansfiell, bass) had some great ideas that blossomed into full-blown songs", the band's founder and guitarist Stuart "Batlord" Laurence said. "Once we started jamming with Pat's pummeling backbeat, we knew we had something special."




"As the arrangements started coming together, I found myself completely immersed and inspired to come up with the lyrical themes and characters to carry the songs to completion", Ignitor's vocalist Jason McMaster added. "I'm really proud of the band's individual and collective contributions, and I think we all agree that 'Horns and Hammers' is a triumph by any measure."


"The cover art was painted by Claudio Bergamin and depicts a weathered warrior in a brief moment of repose after a battle. It resembles the plight of true metal warriors like Ignitor, who strive to inject both power and passion into their craft with every performance, keeping the flames of heavy metal stoked and smoldering for the gathered masses."





Tracklisting:


“Horns And Hammers”
“Imperial Bloodlines”
“Dark Horse”
“Cyber Crush”
“Shattered Crosses”
“Taking Up With Serpents”
“Ferocious The Martyrs”
“Suicide Anthem”
“Chaos Maximus Eternal”
“Terminus”
“Hell Shall Be Your Home” (Live / bonus track)


“Imperial Bloodlines”:

After spending the first half of 2024 on the road with their friends in Static-X and Sevendust, New York City electro metal heads Dope are finishing the year with the announcement of the 25th Anniversary vinyl reissue of their breakthrough debut album, Felons and Revolutionaries. This release marks the first time the album has ever been available on vinyl. 


Originally released on September 14, 1999 via Epic Records, the album would launch the career of mastermind Edsel Dope through the release of singles such as “Pig Society,” “Everything Sucks” and “Sick.” The track “Debonair” would go on to be featured in films such as the original The Fast And The Furious, Run All Night and Scream 3. “Debonair” was also used by Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) superstar Rhino as his entrance music. 


The original release of Felons and Revolutionaries featured the band’s cover of the N.W.A. classic “Fuck Tha Police” which was absent from certain pressings and deliberately omitted from early packaging by the band’s record label. Dope would later record an unforgettable version of Dead Or Alive’s 1985 hit, “You Spin Me Round (Like A Record).” That version would bring the band their first hit single at Active Rock radio and was added to the reprint of the album in 2000. The song continues to be a staple of the band’s live shows to this day. 




The 25th Anniversary version of Felons and Revolutionaries – scheduled for release on December 6 – features newly updated and re-imagined artwork. The vinyl will also include all the tracks from the debut as well as the band’s covers from the original CD release. The album will be available in various configurations including a limited edition Orange Vinyl Pressing – autographed by founding members Edsel & Simon Dope, along with the band’s original drummer Preston Nash & bassist Acey Slade. New merch also available including Dope Police Tape, Hats, Flags, Posters, Stickers, Hoodies and Shirts.


“I can’t believe that it’s been 25 years since Dope hit the international scene,” says Edsel Dope. “This ultra-noisy, punk rock album is where it all started for us and I’m so excited to see it finally

In a new interview with Eric Blair of The Blairing Out With Eric Blair Show, former ACCEPT and current U.D.O. frontman Udo Dirkschneider spoke about his plan to celebrate the 40th anniversary of ACCEPT's classic album "Balls To The Wall". He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "I think next year we make a break with U.D.O., and now we start in November in South America, the 40-years anniversary of the 'Balls To The Wall' album. And that means I think we continue until the end of next year. I mean, there's already booking stuff. and it goes very well. So that means, of course, I play the whole 'Balls To The Wall' album. And I'm really looking forward to this. Also now I have Peter [Baltes, former ACCEPT bassist, playing] with me."

Asked what he loves about playing with Peter again, Udo said: "[It's] fantastic. We have a really good relationship. So when he left ACCEPT in 2018, we were working together on an album with the German army, a classic album. We were writing songs together, and that was the first time we were working together again. And then the problem came for [U.D.O.] when we had this 'Game Over' tour in Europe. The other bass player that we had at this time felt very sick. And then for me it was, like, 'Hmm, hmm. What am I doing? I need a bass player who can do everything very quick.' I was calling Peter. I asked him, 'Can you help us on this tour?' And then, I think in South America, the bass player that we had before, he said, 'Yeah, I don't wanna do it anymore. I'm out of U.D.O.' And then we were sitting there in a restaurant, and I said, 'Oh, no. We have to look for a new bass player.' And Peter said, 'Maybe I would love to join U.D.O.' So here we go. And it's good. I mean, I'm really looking forward also to work with him on the next U.D.O. album."

DIRKSCHNEIDER, which is completed by drummer Sven Dirkschneider (Udo's son) and the talented guitar duo of Andrey Smirnov and Fabian "Dee" Dammers, will celebrate the 40th anniversary of "Balls To The Wall", which was originally released in late 1983 and is the most commercially successful and best-known album by ACCEPT, by embarking on a full European tour in the spring of 2025.

Nine years ago — in 2015 — Udo announced that he would embark on a special tour during which he would perform ACCEPT songs one last time under the DIRKSCHNEIDER banner before closing that chapter for good. Since then, the former ACCEPT frontman has continued to play ACCEPT material at select shows, including at the September 18, 2020 U.D.O. concert in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, which was released on DVD and Blu-ray.

When he first announced the original DIRKSCHNEIDER tour in 2015, Udo said that had "to make a clear break for myself — close the book and this is it. And I have the problem that people come to me and ask me to play more ACCEPT songs," he explained. "Other people ask me why I play ACCEPT songs at all, because there are [more than] fifteen U.D.O. records. I want to avoid such things and avoid the repeating questions concerning ACCEPT. I just can't stand that anymore. There is nothing more to be said. U.D.O. exists longer than ACCEPT. We have more records than ACCEPT."

While acknowledging that some ACCEPT fans want to hear the band's classic songs performed by the group's original singer, Dirkschneider explained that "you always have these comparisons [between how these songs are played by ACCEPT and U.D.O.]. I don't want this anymore either. [The current lineup of ACCEPT] also play 'Metal Heart', they play 'Balls To The Wall' and 'Princess Of The Dawn'. And then some people tell me, 'Oh, [current ACCEPT singer Mark Tornillo] is doing it better than you.' And I go, 'That's fine. Enjoy yourself.' But I don't want this anymore. And to avoid all of this in the future, I said, 'We are doing this one more time.'"

Dirkschneider said that his vow to never play ACCEPT material again came with one caveat. "If the band ACCEPT dissolves one day in the near future and I am still around with U.D.O., then there is a chance that I put ACCEPT songs back in the setlist," he said. "But currently there is ACCEPT, so go see them [if you want to see those songs performed live]. They are playing these songs."

Udo previously said the original plan was for DIRKSCHNEIDER to only "a few shows," and "then [the tour] got bigger and bigger [due to demand]." But, he added, "I don't want to complain about that."

Back in 2018, ACCEPT guitarist Wolf Hoffmann declined to comment on Dirkschneider's decision to embark on one final tour during which the singer would perform nothing but ACCEPT songs. "I have lots of thoughts about that, but I'm not gonna share 'em with you," he told SiriusXM's "Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk". "I'd rather not comment on that, because that seems so much 'back and forth,' and I think I should stay away from it… You can draw your own conclusions all day long, but I'm not gonna get into it; it's just not worth it.

"I get asked [about Udo] so many times, and, man, it's been so many years — it's such an old story by now," Wolf continued. "We've moved on way past that, and we've had [15] brilliant years [with Mark Tornillo], we're making cool albums; I think we're doing fine. So I don't spend any time thinking about it.

"I'm very proud of the history we have together and all that, but I'm just not gonna get into the current 'he said, she said' whatever — it's not worth it," Hoffmann concluded.

In a new interview with Mike Gaube and Shaggy of 94.9 and 104.5 The Pick, JUDAS PRIEST guitarist Richie Faulkner spoke about the recently released remixed and remastered version of JUDAS PRIEST's classic debut album, 1974's "Rocka Rolla". Regarding the decision to reissue the LP, Faulkner said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "We talked to different people. Some people were for it; some people liked it as it was. I think it was important for the band to get that album out more of the way they intended it to sound. But there's a lot of people out there that love that album as it was, and a lot of people are loving the new one. So, yeah, I mean, it's gonna be two different opinions on it. I think it sounds great. I think [longtime PRIEST producer] Tom Allom did a great job [remixing it], and it's good to see the album be put out in the way that the band envisaged. So that's a great thing."

Faulkner added: "Tom's obviously a great producer. He's got a great ear. He loves PRIEST. He always used to say when we were doing some of the 'Firepower' sessions that he loves PRIEST. So I think that really comes over in his mixes and in the work that he does for us."

Last month, JUDAS PRIEST bassist Ian Hill told John And Heidi Show's "Something You Should Know!" podcast about the remixed and remastered version of "Rocka Rolla": "It's been a long time coming, really. Those first two albums ['Rocka Rolla' and 1976's 'Sad Wings Of Destiny'], they were with our first record company called Gull Records. They were both put together on very low budgets. They were recorded overnight because the studio time, it was cheaper back then. And things were let go really because we had time constrictions as well. I mean, the whole album was done [in] probably three, four weeks maybe, not much longer. And we finally got the rights to the songs, or Reach Music has now got the rights to the songs, so we can do something with 'em. We would've done this a lot earlier, but Gull kept the songs close to the chest. And like I say, now [that] Reach has got it, we can play around with it a little bit."

When the interviewer noted that there are a lot of moving parts that have to align in order to be able to re-release an album like "Rocka Rolla", Hill said: "When we did 'Rocka Rolla' back in '74, it was more straightforward then, but there's still a lot of people involved, from the artistic point of view, from the production point of view, and, of course, the business point of view as well. Everyone's gotta be on the same page. And like I say, after 50 years, we've finally been able to do it, and it's gonna end up with the production it should have had back then. Tom Allom's on the case, and he's been recording the band since 1979. So, it's in a very, very safe pair of hands with him."

Asked if he remembers the making of "Rocka Rolla" like it was yesterday, Ian said: "Uh, no. There's been a hell of a lot of water under the bridge since then. [Laughs] You remember some of it — you remember the studios, obviously. Some of it sort of fades into a sort of the fog of time. Some things stand out vividly. I mean, it was the first time we actually went into a professional recording studio, so we were all sort of wide-eyed, big open mouths, in awe of… I mean, Island Studios, some of the most famous acts in the world had recorded there. And, of course, Trident, we did a part of it there. And the Olympic. We actually met [THE ROLLING STONES'] Mick Jagger and Keith Richards at the Olympic, which, for an up-and-coming band, that was an absolute bonus, absolute hoot to meet them. And things like that stand out."

The remixed and remastered version of "Rocka Rolla" was released digitally in the U.S. and Canada on September 13. The CD and vinyl versions of "Rocka Rolla - 50th Anniversary: Remixed And Remastered 1974 - 2024" will arrive on Friday, November 22.

In 1974, before the eternal metal flame was ever lit, JUDAS PRIEST — singer Rob Halford, guitarist Glenn Tipton, bassist Ian Hill, guitarist K.K. Downing and drummer John Hinch — were simply five young musicians in their 20s from the Black Country an area of working-class towns in England excited to have signed a record deal. With limited funds, the band recorded during the less expensive night shift hours. The album "Rocka Rolla" was born during these sessions, under the guidance of producer Roger Bain who was brought in by the label and who had previously produced BLACK SABBATH.

JUDAS PRIEST learnt over time how to record an album, and the experience of working in a professional recording studio helped prepare them for the next album to come, one of the most definitive and foundational heavy metal albums of all time, "Sad Wings Of Destiny". But with "Rocka Rolla", the band was not there for the mixing, the mastering process or any final approvals — they didn't have a say when it was finished or how it ultimately sounded. Although the band felt positive about how the songs sounded in the studio, they were particularly disappointed when they received a finished copy of the album in the mail to listen to for the first time.

Halford recalled: "I took the record and I put the needle onto the groove and I sat back. And I just slowly started to deflate, deflate. I was so disappointed with the way it was sounding. All of us were — we'd all worked so hard to get to this place. And now this music that we know when we play live is roaring — the heavy metal is roaring even in those early primitive days — none of that was coming out of the speakers"

The band never had a future say in "Rocka Rolla" in the intervening decades — the re-releases and early-era compilations… but that was about to change.

During JUDAS PRIEST's "50 Heavy Metal Years" tour in 2022, something remarkable was happening behind the scenes. The label that originally signed JUDAS PRIEST in 1974, Gull Records, and its owner David Howells, decided to sell the masters and publishing rights for the two albums the label owned, "Rocka Rolla" and "Sad Wings Of Destiny", and David contacted Tipton's music publisher, Michael Closter of Reach Music Publishing.

After discussing this opportunity and collaborating with JUDAS PRIEST's manager Jayne Andrews, a compelling offer from Reach Music was made to Gull Records. Terms were accepted. An acquisition agreement was prepared, and after almost 50 years from the release of these albums, Reach Music and its label Exciter Records, in partnership with JUDAS PRIEST, was now the owner of "Rocka Rolla" and "Sad Wings Of Destiny".

The first order of business was to retrieve the original multitrack tapes from storage (which miraculously still existed and kept in usable condition for all these decades) — and to begin the process of resurrecting "Rocka Rolla" from these multitrack recordings...

With the task of delving back into time and putting the tapes of "Rocka Rolla" back on the recording studio console, JUDAS PRIEST put their full faith in Tom Allom, known in the JUDAS PRIEST world for producing the iconic "British Steel" and "Screaming For Vengeance" albums, among many others.

As Allom stated: "What we did with the multitracks is quite unusual, to completely remix an album from that era, from scratch. So to clarify what we're doing, we're not adding anything musically. We're not re-recording any of the musical parts… We're remixing them, rebalancing them using the technology we have, the modern tools we have now, to sonically upgrade them, and make them sound more powerful."

The results of this remixed version are now available for posterity — the artist-approved version of "Rocka Rolla" is finally here for fans to add to their JUDAS PRIEST collection.

Halford said: "It's great to look back and see our future unfurl — from little metal acorns mighty metal oaks do grow. One small step for metal, one giant leap for metalkind — a lifelong metal journey began with these songs. This album lit the eternal metal flame — as real and fresh as ever five decades on.

He added: "I'm just thrilled… because it just goes to show you when you get an expert involved in a project, it's likely that you have a second chance. And I think that Tom Allom is giving us a second chance here with the way that a lot of the elements were lost in 'Rocka Rolla'. And it's also nice, like a really nice feeling, especially to attach it to what will be a 50th-anniversary moment. It's just a beautiful feeling."

Tipton said: "This is where it all started for us and 50 years later, we have a great re-mixed and re-mastered version of the original...and the band are still going strong!"

Hill stated: "Recorded during nighttime sessions to save costs, over a few weeks in June and July 1974, on a shoestring budget, 'Rocka Rolla' was always going to have its flaws! But walking into my local record store and seeing it on a shelf amongst all your idol's records was the proudest feeling in the world, and I thought, 'Whatever happens now, nothing can change that!' Now remixed by Tom Allom and remastered, 'Rocka Rolla' has finally got the production it deserved!"

Downing said: "At last! This! The first JUDAS PRIEST album can be listened to and enjoyed in the way it was always intended to be!"

"Rocka Rolla (50th Anniversary Remixed & Remastered)" track listing:

01. One For The Road
02. Rocka Rolla
03. Winter
04. Deep Freeze
05. Winter Retreat
06. Cheater
07. Never Satisfied
08. Run Of The Mill
09. Dying To Meet You
10. Caviar And Meths

COAL CHAMBER has canceled its appearance at the Aftershock festival, set to take place October 10-13 at Discovery Park in Sacramento, California, due to frontman Dez Fafara's health.

Earlier today, Fafara released the following statement via social media: "Hello everyone, due to doctors orders and waiting on CT scan results amongst other test results… COAL CHAMBER will not be performing at Aftershock festival.

"I thank Danny Wimmer Presents, my band and crew and supporters of COAL CHAMBER for being understanding during this very difficult time for myself & family."

Fafara's COAL CHAMBER bandmates — Miguel "Meegs" Rascón (guitar),Nadja Peulen (bass) and Mikey Cox (drums) — added in a separate statement: "It goes without saying that we are heartbroken that we won't be joining Aftershock with all of our fans, family, and friends. Our brother's health and making a full recovery is absolutely the #1 priority so we can be firing on all cylinders for our tour in March! We thank you for the patience, and joining us in supporting the Fafara family while Dez recovers."

Less than two months ago, COAL CHAMBER postponed its previously announced summer/fall "Fiend For The Fans" U.S. tour due to Dez's health emergency. The trek, which was scheduled to launch on Friday, August 23 in Las Vegas, was slated to feature support from FEAR FACTORY, TWIZTID, WEDNESDAY 13 and BLACK SATELLITE.

On August 16, Fafara released the following statement: "With a heavy heart, let me tell you a story about life taking a turn, I'm writing to you from my bed.

"I've been running 6 miles daily, I've been rehearsing two hours daily in my home studio and excited to hit the road, I'm excited to get on a bus with my brothers and sister and my crew. I' d never felt better and as you all know, I fought back hard after long haul Covid tried to kill me.

"Saturday morning I woke up and I was coming up my stairs. I saw flashes in my eyes. I passed out and my wife revived me. My vitals were through the roof, and I was sheet white and vomiting, and the whole world was spinning. [My wife] Anahstasia called 911. I ended up in the back of an ambulance and did nine hours in the ER testing all my vitals including taking X-rays of my heart and lungs. My doctor has advised me to get a CAT scan, and until further testing, I am on bedrest and must postpone the tour. Our agent sprung into action to rebook this tour for March 2025, and until we can figure out what the fuck medically is happening. We will see you in March 2025 on the 'Fiend For The Fans Tour'.

"This tour postponement is surreal, I was looking forward to playing with my band and connecting with fans, friends and family on the road.

"I want to take a moment to thank everybody for their outpouring of love and outpouring of calls and texts checking on me. It seems like the word spread and the whole industry has been ringing my phone since Sunday; musicians, agents and managers and I really really appreciate it. My band has been amazingly understanding and call me hourly - I thank them immensely for their caring nature.

"Kiss your loved ones, no one is promised tomorrow. I'll fight my way back to be with you all onstage you can be sure of that as well I'll keep you all updated on my socials as to what's going on.

"Apologies if this news causes you to rearrange your schedules to attend the concert with us and I want to say thank you in advance. We are all truly in the dark and I'm looking forward to finding out what's going on. HAIL."

COAL CHAMBER drummer Mikey Cox said: "After hearing the shocking news of our brother, we collectively had to make some tough decisions as a family. We discussed every possible scenario and it all lead back making sure Dez's health was the number 1 priority. In order for us to be 100% we need to take this extra time to allow him to make a full recovery so we can bring you the shows that you deserve!! We look forward to seeing you all in March 2025!!"

Rescheduled tour dates:

Mar. 05 - Denver, CO - Summit
Mar. 07 - Las Vegas, NV - House of Blues
Mar. 08 - Anaheim, CA - House of Blues
Mar. 09 - Tempe, AZ - The Marquee Theatre
Mar. 11 - San Antonio, TX - The Aztec Theatre
Mar. 12 - Houston, TX - House of Blues
Mar. 14 - Dallas, TX - House of Blues
Mar. 15 - Fort Worth, TX - Tannerhill's Tavern & Music Hall
Mar. 19 - Orlando, FL - Hard Rock Live
Mar. 22 - Newport, KY - Mega Corp. Pavillion
Mar. 23 - Columbus, OH - Kemba Live
Mar. 25 - Norfolk, VA - NorVa
Mar. 28 - Sayreville, NJ - Starland Ballroom
Mar. 29 - Harrisburg, PA - HMAC
Mar. 30 - Boston, MA - Big Night Live
Apr. 04 - Pittsburgh, PA - Roxian Theater
Apr. 05 - Cleveland, OH - Agora Ballroom
Apr. 09 - Ft. Wayne, IN - Piere's Entertainment Center
Apr. 11 - Flint, MI - The Machine Shop
Apr. 12 - Flint, MI - The Machine Shop
Apr. 13 - Chicago, IL - Concord Music Hall
Apr. 15 - Sauget, IL - Pop's
Apr. 16 - Milwaukee, WI - The Rave
Apr. 18 - Maplewood, MN - Myth Live

Last year, COAL CHAMBER completed a U.S. tour as the support act for MUDVAYNE. Additional support on the 26-city "The Psychotherapy Sessions" tour, which was produced by Live Nation, came from GWAR, NONPOINT and BUTCHER BABIES.

COAL CHAMBER played its first two shows in eight years at the Sick New World festival in Las Vegas in May 2023 and at the Inkcarceration Music And Tattoo Festival in Mansfield, Ohio in July 2023.

Photo courtesy of Adrenaline PR

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Jeff Wagner of WCCO-TV, the CBS television affiliate that provides local news to viewers in Minnesota, has shared a behind-the-scenes look at the massive effort that it took to put on the two METALLICA shows at the U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis over the weekend.

According to the report, METALLICA's touring crew includes 156 people, with 40 steelworkers, 168 local production hands and 92 truck drivers also helping to ensure things run smoothly. Another 800 people are employed locally to support each tour stop.

Jon-Michael Marino, the tour coordinator, told WCCO that there are four drum kits on the stage with two backups in the truck. There are 64 guitars and bass that go on the road, and 36 of them need to be show-ready (12 per band member). There are 6,000 guitar picks used or given out per concert and only 25 drumsticks are used or given away per performance.

Asked why so many guitars need to be ready for each show, Marino said: "Across, let's call it 15-16 songs, there's various tuning. There's also things that happen naturally like strings breaking, guitars going out of tune that have to be swapped in the moment."

In support of METALLICA's latest album, "72 Seasons", the band has been playing two-night, no-repeat shows in each city — first in Europe, then in North America, back in Europe, and now once again in North America — as part of the "M72" tour. Each concert sees METALLICA performing on a massive ring-shaped stage, with the Snake Pit in the center, and four drum sets which are equally spaced out around the circular stage so drummer Lars Ulrich can get closer to the audience at various points in the show.

Touring alongside METALLICA are PANTERA, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, MAMMOTH WVH and ICE NINE KILLS. For last weekend's Minnesota shows, the Friday lineup featured PANTERA and MAMMOTH WVH, with FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH and ICE NINE KILLS playing on Sunday.

A number of METALLICA-themed events took place on Saturday, including bowling, axe throwing, films about METALLICA, "Name That Tune" competitions and a performance by AND ONE FOR ALL, in between the METALLICA performances.

METALLICA will close out the 2024 touring season with four shows in Mexico City at the end of September.

METALLICA's manager Cliff Burnstein told Billboard that between 80% and 90% of fans at each concert attend both shows.

The "M72" tour launched in late April 2023 in Amsterdam.

Wanikiya Record is thrilled to announce the addition of Unfaithfull, one of Italy’s leading Industrial-Core metal bands, to its roster. This collaboration kicks off with the highly anticipated release of their new album, “Architextures”, on October 17, 2024.

The album, featuring 7 powerful tracks filled with dynamic soundscapes, marks yet another evolution in the band’s musical journey. Blending the crushing death metal of the ’90s with the cold and captivating atmosphere of post-industrial electronic music, “Architextures” offers an explosive fusion of styles ranging from industrial metal to metalcore, groove metal, djent, and death metal. The result is a visceral and immersive sonic experience, with no room for compromise.

Active since 2007, Unfaithfull have firmly established themselves in the metal scene with their distinctive style and fearless experimentation. They have already earned significant accolades, including the “Self Release of the Month” award from Rock Hard Italy for their third album, “AEON”, in 2020, and the “Best EP” award from European Metal Channel in 2015.

With “Architextures”, Unfaithfull aims to further cement their position on the global metal scene, offering innovative and raw sounds that break boundaries. Some of the band’s key members have played with Dark Lunacy, and the members include Drew (guitar, bass, drums, synth, and sound engineer) and Drake (vocals and lyricist).

Don’t miss the release of “Architextures”, available on all major digital platforms starting October 17, 2024, through Wanikiya Record

OPHIDIAN MEMORY is an American death metal project leaded by Blake Lamoureux. He already has in his account three records: “Ophidian Memory” (EP, 2021) and albums “The Stag” (2022), “Our Shattered Garden” (2023).

Sonically Ophidian Memory uses a base of melodic death metal to add and blend multiple sub genres together including black metal, thrash, progressive metal, and metalcore. Each album tells of tales based in a fictional universe where beings of light and dark are entwined in constant conflict as they plot to destroy humanity, eachother, and existence.

Now he is going to release brand new studio album titled “Carrion Lord“.


Music was recorded and mixed by Blake Lamoureux. Mastering was done by Rick Stallkamp. Cover artwork was done by Caelan Stokkermans (Abiotic, Hannes Grossmann, Lorna Shore). Album will be released on September 27, 2024.

“Carrion Lord” is a prequel to previous releases and marks a huge expansion in lore, set over one thousand years before the events of “The Stag” and “Our Shattered Garden“. Introduced are the main influential factions in the human realm known as The Kerberos and The Luminary as well as the characters within them that lead a great chain of causes and effects. In addition, new and returning ancient deities and seraphs that have only been mentioned before will make reprises and revelations.

Tracklist:

01. The Mausoleum
02. Hunger of Your Deceased Deity
03. A Jewel In Gocinia
04. Fleshbinding Ritual
05. Carrion Lord
06. A Murder on Warforged Soil
07. Hollowed
08. Sculptors of Seraphic Tributes
09. Kept From Dust
10. Bloodborne

Below you can check first foretaste of upcoming album! Listen to the “Fleshbinding Ritual” song at Death Metal Promotion.

ANGUISH FORCE, pillars of the Italian metal scene, have released their highly anticipated new single “Brothers Kills His Brother.” The track, distributed by Wanikiya Records, comes out about a month ahead of the release of their tenth studio album, already eagerly awaited by fans.

“Brothers Kills His Brother” is now available on all major digital platforms, giving metal enthusiasts the chance to preview the band’s new sound. But there’s more: for collectors and die-hard fans, the single will soon be available in a special 7-inch vinyl edition, released in an ultra-limited run, destined to become a true collector’s item.


The new single follows the path set by the success of their previous release, “Pool of Sins,” but stands out for its overwhelming energy and driving riffs, perfectly capturing the spirit and power of Anguish Force. Its catchy chorus, combined with solid musical structure, confirms the band’s ability to stay true to their Heavy Metal roots while continuing to innovate and surprise.

Thematically, “Brothers Kills His Brother” addresses a deep and timely subject: the tragedy of the war in Ukraine. Without taking a political stance, the song reflects on the drama of a conflict that involves peoples bound by a shared history, highlighting the absurdity of such a situation. Anguish Force’s message is clear and powerful, conveyed through their unmistakable musical intensity, which remains at the core of the listening experience.

This single is just a taste of what’s to come: the album’s release, scheduled for next month, promises to be one of the most significant moments in the band’s long career. “Brothers Kills His Brother” is an unmissable moment for the band’s fans and all Heavy Metal enthusiasts.

Don’t miss the chance to listen to “Brothers Kills His Brother,” available today on all major digital platforms, and get ready to collect the precious 7-inch vinyl. Anguish Force is back, stronger than ever!

Iron Maiden performed live at Osaka-Jo Hall in Osaka, Japan today, September 24, as part of their Future Past World Tour 2024. Fan-filmed video of the British metal legends playing “The Trooper”, “Caught Somewhere In Time,” and “Stranger In A Strange Land” are available below.













The Future Past Tour sees Maiden performing songs from their 2021 album Senjutsu, as well as from 1986’s Somewhere In Time, along with other crowd favorites. 


Remaining dates on The Future Past World Tour 2024 are as listed:


September
26 – Tokyo Garden Theater – Tokyo, Japan
28 – Pia Arena MM – Kanagawa, Japan
29 – Pia Arena MM – Kanagawa, Japan

In a new interview with Inside Of You With Michael Rosenbaum, original FOREIGNER singer Lou Gramm was asked if his reaction was "it's about time" when he heard that he and his bandmates were finally going to be inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "It was about time. It was 20 years, at least 20 years, after our peers from the same year range that we started our band and other people started their bands and they were already in the Hall Of Fame 10 years. And we were wondering, 'What's wrong with us?' And we're going, 'How many hits? How many albums sold?' And we just couldn't figure out what in the world was going on.

Asked if he got emotional when he found that FOREIGNER was going to be inducted, Gramm said: "Well, I was emotional when we got nominated, yeah. And then the votes start coming in from the upper echelon of the Hall Of Fame. Then members of the Hall Of Fame also carry some clout. And then the public at large also counts. And I think for the most part, we started out behind Ozzy [Osbourne] and Peter Frampton, and then we passed Peter Frampton and we were behind Ozzy. And then Ozzy was displaced by Dave Matthews. And we finished two out of 13 — number two out of 13. I think they took the top seven to induct."

This past June, Lou was asked by Jim Monaghan of the WDHA radio station why it has taken so long for him and his FOREIGNER bandmates to finally get inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. He responded: "I knew we had the credentials to be part of the Hall, and I felt that our standing with our singles and our albums… I think we had 19 Top 20 singles; I think it was one or two less than THE BEATLES, and our sales were, were always exemplary. We had everything that the Hall required to get in, and for over 20 years, we weren't even nominated. Now, what, what I do know, and I'm not going to belabor this, is that Jann Wenner was the head honcho at the Hall Of Fame too. And he and Mick [Jones, FOREIGNER guitarist and main songwriter] were very good friends. They started their friendship working out together, and having coffee afterwards, and talking music. And then they went out to dinner and Broadway shows with their wives. They were, I would call them good friends. But increasingly Mick and FOREIGNER's management couldn't understand why other bands that came out around the same time as us, also very good bands, but lacking the exemplary credentials that we had were not only nominated, but they were in already, and we hadn't even been nominated. And so Mick and our manager went to see Jann at his office at the Hall Of Fame and just wanted some answers as to why things are the way they are. And I was told that he either wasn't willing to elaborate on it or just just more or less pretended that's the way things are. So Mick and FOREIGNER's manager kind of abruptly got off the chairs and walk out of the room without saying anything. Needless to say, that was the end of the friendship between Mick and Jann. And another [few] years went by. However, I think FOREIGNER's manager went to someone higher up than Jann even on the board of directors and kind of [inquired about it], and they looked into it very deeply and found that we weren't the only band that that had happened to, that periodically he just had a personal thing against certain artists and made sure that they would not get into the Hall. [Jann has since] been relieved of his services [when it comes to the Rock Hall]. And that was last year. Now this year, we're nominated and set to be inducted."

This past April, it was revealed that FOREIGNER is among the 2024 inductees into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.

The induction ceremony will be held on October 19 at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland, Ohio. It will air live on Disney+. An edited three-hour prime-time special will follow, premiering on New Year's Day on ABC, and become available for streaming the following day on Hulu and Disney+.

In an interview with News 8 WROC, Gramm stated about learning that he will be one of Rock Hall class of 2024 inductees: "It was a relief, because we have been eligible for a good long time. And we were wondering if we'd ever be in the Rock Hall Of Fame. We've aspired to be part of it, and it's very satisfying now that we're voted in. And I don't think I don't think we could be any happier."

Shortly after FOREIGNER's Rock Hall induction was first announced, Jones told Billboard that he will have no problems reuniting at the induction ceremony with Gramm, with whom he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall Of Fame with in 2013.

"On a personal level, I have no hard feelings toward Lou," Jones said. "We did perform together at the 40th-anniversary concert. It has been so many years now since Lou left FOREIGNER; I like to think that those ill feelings are in the past. There is power in letting go of hard feelings and getting on with your life. Why carry the burden of hard feelings? It serves nothing in the long run.

When FOREIGNER was first nominated for the Rock Hall in February, Gramm released a video message expressing his gratitude. In the one-minute clip, which was posted to Lou's social media, the 74-year-old singer said: "I'd like to thank the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame for the honor of nomination. And I'd like to acknowledge Mick Jones for his courage as he faces Parkinson's. I'd like to thank my friends in the music and the acting industry for their support, especially over the last two or three weeks in helping us to receive the nomination. Now I've seen a lot of the videos and I've definitely been feeling the buzz. It's really exciting and it means a lot. It means a lot to me and all the guys in the band. Now [multi-instrumentalist] Ian McDonald and [bassist] Ed Gagliardi were vital contributing members of the early FOREIGNER, and I know they're somewhere in the hereafter fist pumping and cheering for this nomination."

Earlier that same month, Jones's stepson, Oscar-nominated producer/songwriter Mark Ronson enlisted Dave Grohl, Jack Black, Slash, RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS drummer Chad Smith and QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE frontman Josh Homme (along with Ronson himself) to create a video campaigning for FOREIGNER's Rock Hall bid.

"Yes, Mick is my stepdad and I love him more than anything," Ronson wrote in a message accompanying the video. "But I'm also a MEGA fan just like Dave, Jack, Slash, Chad and Josh… Enjoy this video and VOTE BABY VOTE!"

In the clip, Homme said: "You want to know what love is? Love is putting FOREIGNER in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame." Smith added: "I can't believe they’re not in already — oh my God."

"I've loved FOREIGNER since I got their debut record," Grohl said. "There's one drum riff that I have used in more than a few songs."

Black sang parts of FOREIGNER's "I Want To Know What Love Is" before pleading, "Hey, Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, open the door! FOREIGNER's waiting outside. Let 'em in."

In his Instagram message, Ronson shared a brief history of FOREIGNER's influence, writing: "Everything that made me want to be a record producer came from being in the studio watching FOREIGNER make records. I'm still completely in awe of the sound of those first five albums. Guitars with swagger and bite. Heavy drums that groove like a mutha with the bass. Wide layers of synths. And then there’s that voice. And those songs. It's really crazy. It's also kind of crazy that this is the first time they've ever been on the ballot for the Rock N Roll Hall Of Fame — after 20 years of eligibility."

He added: "Fun Facts: FOREIGNER are the most played band on classic rock radio to not be in the hall of fame. They've been sung by our fave characters from the Simpsons, The Office, I, Tonya, Stranger Things and Wet Hot American Summer. They've been covered by Diana Ross and Mariah Carey (what the rock band can boast that??). They were sampled and turned into HOT FIRE by M.O.P. (remember that Cold As Ice joint?) and Tone-Loc who used them to concoct some Funky Cold Medina."

To be eligible for this year's ballot, each nominee's first single or album had to have been released in 1999 or earlier.

Eligible since 2002, FOREIGNER has had a huge number of rock hits, including "Cold As Ice", "Double Vision", "Hot Blooded", "I Want To Know What Love Is", "Juke Box Hero" and "Urgent", and has been nominated for three Grammy Awards, with no wins.

According to the Hall Of Fame, the FOREIGNER members that will get inducted include only the classic-era musicians Jones, Gramm, Dennis Elliott, Gagliardi, Al Greenwood, McDonald and Rick Wills. McDonald and Gagliardi died in 2022 and 2014, respectively.

German stadium rockers The New Roses are set to touch hearts with their moving new ballad, "Hold Me Up“, from the highly anticipated studio album Attracted To Danger, out this Friday via Napalm Records. The new single is a deeply moving duet with Scotland-based vocalist Gill Montgomery (The Hot Damn!, The Amorettes). As Gill’s soft voice melts tenderly with Timmy’s rough timbre, the track succeeds as an emotional masterpiece of a romantic rock ballad.


Known for their hits with plenty of radio play and millions of streams, The New Roses have toured and shared stages with iconic artists such as KISS, The Scorpions, Saxon and Accept, as well as earned high chart positions with previous albums. With Attracted To Danger, the band delivers a powerful blend of raw emotion that will resonate with listeners. 


The New Roses comment: “‘Hold me Up“ is the first duet in the history of The New Roses. I think Gil Montgomery did an amazing job and took this ballad to another level. So find yourself a sunset, crank up that song and ride right into it…”




Gill Montgomery adds: “….It was such a massive honour to be invited to be a part of ‘Hold me Up’ with the absolutely cracking The New Roses. Such a lovely bunch of very talented gentlemen it was an absolute pleasure and I had a blast! Quite a vocal challenge for me on such a massive banger of a ballad so I hope I did them proud!”


The New Roses’ newest onslaught, Attracted To Danger, starts off with the catchy and classy opener “When You Fall In Love”, setting the tone for an album that convinces with a rebellious free spirit, timeless melodies and catchy hooks. Overall, The New Roses present a heavier, rougher side, as is evident on the stomping “Four Wheels” with its heavy riffs, or closing track “Whiskey In The Backseat”, offering a heavier melody and dramatic audacity, like strong whiskey running down your throat. But still, the quartet stays true to their trademarks, delivering timeless hard rock hymns while unleashing a fiery energy and heavier touch on tracks like “Bring The Thunder”, then hitting differently when Timmy Rough presents the full range of his vocal skills on “This Heart”. Next, “Spirit Of A Rebel” creates a lighter atmosphere and invites listeners to celebrate life together under the sun.


There’s room for calmer and more emotional sounds as “Natural Born Vagabonds” creates an authentic bonfire-like atmosphere. A more romantic side manifests often in the lyrics, but culminates in the deeply moving “Hold Me Up” - a duet with Scotland-based lead singer Gill Montgomery (The Hot Damn, The Amorettes). As her soft voice melts tenderly with Timmy’s rough timbre, the track succeeds as an emotional masterpiece of a rock ballad, marking a romantic ending to a wild love story. The album is wrapped up by a cover version by Neil Young’s iconic hit single “Rockin’ In The Free World”, making it their very own - and by that claiming their rightful place in the upper echelons of the international hard rock scene.


Attracted To Danger is an outstanding hard rock album providing everything the band is loved and appreciated for: catchy sounds, true rock anthems, authentic emotions and an incredible rock’n’roll energy that can only be delivered by The New Roses. Get ready for an outstanding highlight as the Germans turn the intensity up to 11 and beyond, taking no time to rest and delivering a more explosive and rebellious sound than ever before.


The New Roses on their new album: "I think Attracted To Danger has everything a good rock & roll record needs. We tried to show the whole spectrum of rock & roll emotions. Good times, hard times, the traditional road vibe, a ballad and some harder riffs. So If you wanna have a rock & roll party this record is the soundtrack for it..."





Attracted To Danger will be available in the following formats:


- 1LP Gatefold Yellow Transparent
- Bundle: 1CD Digipak + Cover shirt
- 1LP Gatefold Black
- 1CD Digipak


Pre-order here.





Attracted To Danger tracklisting:


"When You Fall In Love"
"Natural Born Vagabonds"
"Attracted To Danger"
"Four Wheels"
"Bring The Thunde

In a recent interview with Neuborn Open Air Festival, CARCASS vocalist/bassist Jeff Walker and guitarist James "Nip" Blackford spoke about the band's musical evolution. Walker said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "We did this, and then we grew up a bit, and then we did that, and we grew up a bit. And we keep growing up, and we keep… It's not a deliberate, cynical maneuver. We just play the music we like… But it's not like a cynical maneuver. You get better as a musician and you have different influences and you just try different things… Stylistically we're all over the place. That's the problem."

Blackford, who replaced former CARCASS guitarist Tom Draper in 2021, weighed in: "I would say as a fan of CARCASS primarily — I've been a fan for most of my life, and now I get to play with the band — I think that's a great thing about the band, that each album has been different. And it seems from the outside, that was where they were in that year, in that time, and then they evolved a bit and they got like that. You kind of see them maturing and growing up. And some bands do just do the same thing over and over again and that's great. It really works well for some bands. In fact, who would want AC/DC to do something different?"

Added Jeff: "That's also the handicap with CARCASS, 'cause someone that heard CARCASS in 1988 would think, 'That's shit.' And they wouldn't understand what we sound like now. And maybe if they heard us in 1990, they didn't like what we were playing then. But we've moved on. And we get that; I understand that. We've been written off so many times. 'That's CARCASS. They sound noisy. They sound shit.' But we're all right, I think."

CARCASS's latest album, "Torn Arteries", was released in September 2021 via Nuclear Blast Records. Drummer Daniel Wilding did session work in Sweden at Studio Gröndahl with David Castillo while guitars were recorded at The Stationhouse with James Atkinson in Leeds, England. Eventually needing some form of residential location to finalize vocals, bass, and other guitarwork, the band headed back to Studio Gröndahl in Sweden to continue work in a very relaxed atmosphere with Castillo.

The "Torn Arteries" album title references an old demo created by original drummer Ken Owen back in the 1980s. The album artwork also rings reminiscent of the grotesque photography that appears on classic CARCASS album covers like "Reek Of Putrefaction" and "Symphonies Of Sickness". Artist Zbigniew Bielak traveled outside his normal wheelhouse to bring forth a time lapsed set of photos showing vegetables shaped like a heart, rotting over time upon a white plate. This form of artwork was influenced by Japanese Kusôzu, meaning: "painting of the nine stages of a decaying corpse."