According to Billboard, SHINEDOWN has landed its 13th No. 1 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock Songs airplay chart with "Get Up", the second single from the Florida band's sixth studio album, "Attention Attention".

Only THREE DAYS GRACE has had more Mainstream Rock No. 1s — 14.

"Attention Attention", SHINEDOWN's sixth studio album, debuted at No. 1 on the Top Rock Albums chart back in May. The follow-up to 2015's "Threat To Survival" marked SHINEDOWN's first full-length effort to be produced entirely by bassist Eric Bass. The 14-song release that tells the story of a character who starts out defeated and slowly overcomes pain and personal struggles and becomes confident at the end. The album also lyrically touches upon singer Brent Smith's former drug addiction and Bass's depression.

Smith told Classic Rock magazine that "Get Up" is "one of the quintessential songs on the record. I wrote the lyrics to 'Get Up' about Eric, who produced and mixed the record," he said. "Eric faces what is considered to be clinical depression on a daily basis. Some days everything is great, some days the sky is falling in. Often he'll tell me he wishes he could unscrew part of his skull, reach into his brain and take that part of him out and throw it away. But it is a part of him, and he has to work with it. He doesn't have to like it, but he has to respect it. And as a band, we all respect him because of it. It was one of the songs that took the longest to write because I was afraid what Eric was going to think. So this is the part of the record when a person has to have a heart-to-heart chat with themselves in that chair. It's a very conversational piece."

b>SHINEDOWN will embark on a U.S. headlining tour in February. Support on the trek will come from PAPA ROACH and ASKING ALEXANDRIA.

Symphonic metal masters VISIONS OF ATLANTIS will release their first live album, "The Deep & The Dark Live @ Symphonic Metal Nights", on February 22, 2019 via Napalm Records. With focus on songs from the band's latest studio album, "The Deep & The Dark", this live opus pushes the mystical adventure of VISIONS OF ATLANTIS to another level — powerful and perfectly executed.

Track listing:

01. Intro

02. The Deep & The Dark

03. New Dawn

04. Book Of Nature

05. Ritual Night

06. Lost

07. The Silent Mutiny

08. The Last Home

09. Words of War

10. The Grand Illusion

11. Passing Dead End

12. Return To Lemuria

"The Deep & The Dark" was released in February via Napalm Records.

ocalist Clémentine Delauney told Metal Underground about the disc: "We all do believe this is the best album the band has ever released. We went back to a more melodic and symphonic metal style with an old-school touch and a production that suits the genre. We wrote diversified songs with rich arrangements using many different influences [and] I was finally able to take part in the creative process. I wrote many of the vocal lines, most of the lyrics together with Siegfried, and I wrote the last song of the album, 'Prayer To The Lost'. So, for the first time, I'm able to release really personal material and to sing about things that deeply matter to me. I've been waiting for this since I joined my first band in 2010."

In a separate interview with Distorted Sound, Clémentine spoke in more detail about the songwriting process for "The Deep & The Dark". "I feel more comfortable when I am writing lyrics when I have a melody because as a singer, it's easier to have a melody so you can let the words come out," she said. "Depending on the notes, I can see which one is more natural to sing an 'a,' another vowel or a specific word that contains a letter like a 'c' or a 't' where I know to project the sound. So, you have singing tricks that someone doesn't normally think about and sometimes, not necessarily in our music, in general the words match so well with the melody because they were created together. I like to make sure the words match the melody so it's easier for me to know the strength of the melody first and then I can shape the words and lyrics nicely to the melody rather than have a text that gets put on top of a melody, as that is difficult."

Photo by Emilie Garcin

JUDAS PRIEST bassist Ian Hill has commented on the popular theory that "rock is dead," or that it will never be what it once was.

The 67-year-old rocker was asked to weigh in on the topic during an interview with The Korea Times.

"I don't agree with the idea that rock is dead or anywhere near," he said. "In my experience, the festivals that we play at are better attended than ever and there are more young faces in the audience than old ones, so there is a great future for rock and heavy metal.

He also advised young musicians to "keep improving where you can and be patient. If you've got something good going, someone will notice sooner or later," he said.

few years ago, Hill's bandmate Rob Halford told Canadian journalist Mitch Lafon that he also disagreed with the notion that rock was dead. "I've heard that statement a number of times through the decades that I've been in metal," the singer said. "I don't think it is. I think it's absolutely in incredible shape right now. [It's] never been stronger."

He continued: "I think we're surrounded constantly by new talent and the enthusiasm that surges from new bands of all kinds keeps rock alive and strong, and I think it'll always be that way. So, for me, when I check out the metal sites that I do every day — I check out a dozen metal sites from different places around the world — I see the strength and the power there, and it's tremendously exciting. It's a different world now, for sure, in terms of the way the industry side of the business works. That is a whole new perspective compared to how it was even twenty years ago, with the advent of the Internet, which created an enormous amount of… a change of perspective. It affected everybody in a great way.

"So what I'm saying is rock isn't dead. It's alive, it's thriving, and it's exciting."

At the end of 1997, during a period when he was pursuing other projects after leaving PRIEST, Rob famously told then-Metal Edge magazine editor Gerri Miller that metal was "dead" and told others that he would never return to the band. "Metal is dead and I am done with it," he was quoted as saying.

Rob later recanted his quote about the state of heavy metal, telling Metal-Rules.com in a 2008 interview, "That was an absolutely fucking stupid thing for me to say. I was just so emotional that day. I can remember I was sitting on my tour bus outside of the Hollywood Palladium in L.A. and I think the TWO band was working with RAMMSTEIN that night and I was just in a bitch mood. [Laughs] I said something which I…. you know, everybody has the freedom to be stupid and I was completely stupid that day. I've made amends in recent years about making that ridiculous comment. I think I was probably just reflecting on my own situation, frustrations that come with what you do and I think it was probably a Monday night; I don't particularly like Monday that much. [Laughs] Had it been Friday or Saturday, I'd have been in a different frame of mind. But I was just being a bit of a petulant rock star bitch that afternoon, so there you go. It's all water under the bridge now."

HALESTORM has released a new virtual reality video featuring performances of the songs "Black Vultures" and "Vicious".

The interactive clip, which was filmed over the summer during HALESTORM's show at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut, was shot with a multi-rig VR camera system with director Craig Ziogas and producers Mike Mushok (STAIND, SAINT ASONIA) and Charlie Callahan.

"Black Vultures" and "Vicious" are both taken from HALESTORM's latest album, "Vicious", which was released on July 27 via Atlantic. The disc was recorded last year at Nashville, Tennesse's Rock Falcon recording studio with producer Nick Raskulinecz.

HALESTORM frontwoman Lzzy Hale spoke to Consequence Of Sound about "Black Vultures", which starts with an epic scream.

That particular scream was kind of a whim, because the first version of that particular song, 'Black Vultures', didn't have any of that in it," she said. "It just started off with the riff. And, I remember, I think it was Nick, our producer, he [said], 'Hey can you just like do something vocally, in the beginning, so I did that as a couple of layers just on a whim in the studio, and then we ended up attaching it to the beginning. From there, I think it was the decision, like, 'Oh, I think we should open the record with this.'

"Nick definitely challenged me to be, like, 'You can get intense, right?' And I was like, 'Sure, let's do it.' So, that was a cool experience.

"But that particular song … Nick was working on an ALICE IN CHAINS record on the West Coast, but he kept his studio open for us, so that we can we can keep writing and rehearsing. And one of our good friends from 10 YEARS, Brian Vodinh, ended up hanging out in Nashville one night, and he was like, 'Hey, I want to come to the studio,' and we ended up jamming on this idea, and it was, 'Hey, let's just write a song. We're here.' And he's a great songwriter. So on the way to the studio, I had written down 'vultures,' because I thought it was a cool name. On the way to the studio, there were at least 20 vultures blocking the road, because there was something they were picking at, and I'm, like, 'Ooh, vultures!'

"And so when we got to the studio and Brian showed up, I was, like, 'I have a title.' So, we did this instrumental jam, and then I took it home and I wrote to it, and ended up writing 'Black Vultures'. I didn't realize that the song was kind of about survival until after I finished it."

San Francisco Bay Area metallers DEATH ANGEL have posted a video recap of the November 24 launch event for the Caster Of Shame IPA, their collaboration with Oakland, California's longest-running active brewery Ale Industries.

DEATH ANGEL recently entered AudioHammer studios in Sanford, Florida to begin recording its ninth album. The follow-up to 2016's "The Evil Divide" is once again being produced by Jason Suecof, who previously worked on DEATH ANGEL's last disc, as well as 2010's "Relentless Retribution" and 2013's "The Dream Calls For Blood".

DEATH ANGEL's new LP will be the band's fourth to feature its current lineup: Mark Osegueda (vocals), Rob Cavestany (guitar), Ted Aguilar (guitar), Will Carroll (drums) and Damien Sisson (bass).

"The Evil Divide" was released in May 2016 via Nuclear Blast.

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Progressive music titans DREAM THEATER have launched the third and final in-the-studio video interview, where the entire band sat down and discussed how their upcoming 14th studio album, "Distance Over Time", came together. In the third clip, which can be seen below, the bandmembers talk about touring and setlists.

"Distance Over Time" will be released on February 22, 2019. The disc showcases a newfound creativity for DREAM THEATER while maintaining the elements that have garnered them devoted fans around the globe. The album also marks the first for the band's new label InsideOut Music. The artwork was created by long-time cover collaborator Hugh Syme (RUSH, IRON MAIDEN, STONE SOUR). "Distance Over Time" was produced by guitarist John Petrucci, mixed by Ben Grosse and mastered by Tom Baker.

Says Petrucci: "When I listen back to the album, I can distinctly recall every moment of the writing process; where I was standing in the room, what inspired us in that instant and the meaning behind each song. As a producer, my goal was to try and create the best-sounding DREAM THEATER record we've ever made so that listeners can just be enveloped in the music. I really wanted this recording to truly reflect the spirit, joy and passion that went into making the album and for people to walk away feeling some of the organic nature, personality and raw energy that the band captured while together in the studio. For me, I think it accomplishes that and I hope that other people will feel the same way."

In June 2018, the members of DREAM THEATER secluded themselves in a private location in upstate New York to begin writing for the new record. While spending the summer living together in the property's adjacent residence, the band spent their days and nights crafting the music that would make up the new album in the "Yonderbarn"; a beautiful and spacious barn that had been meticulously transformed into a state-of-the art film and recording studio. Following an intense and extremely productive period of group writing sessions and wanting to retain the magic that was captured in this scenic and inspiring location, they decided to record the album in the very room they had all convened to write together in. Living together during the writing and recording for "Distance Over Time" marked another first for the band's 33-year career. The result is a heavier collection of songs that showcases the early roots of the band while exploring new territory as musicians and as friends.

It was like going back to summer camp," says singer James LaBrie. "Being around each other the whole time made it that much more of a profound experience. I think the songs reflect the energy. It was a lot of fun to have a situation so powerful at this point in our career."

It has been three years since DREAM THEATER released new music. To announce the details of the brand new album, DREAM THEATER enlisted the help of one lucky contest winner to break the news of the record to the loyal fans of the band. An Alternate Reality Game was launched that encompassed a "treasure hunt" whereby fans were able to search for clues hidden in various photos, videos, social media posts, and more. Ultimately, one lucky winner was given access to content before everyone else including the release date and cover artwork, and the winner would be the one to share the first taste of never-before-heard music.

DREAM THEATER is also planning to hit the road in support of the new album. The "Distance Over Time" tour of North America was recently announced and kicks off on March 20, 2019 in San Diego, California. The tour will run for seven weeks before wrapping up in Mexico City on May 4, 2019. Information on tickets for all upcoming shows as well as VIP packages can be found at DreamTheater.net.

The godfathers of American doom SAINT VITUS have finished recording their new album. The follow-up to 2012's "Lillie: F-65" will be released in 2019 via Season Of Mist.

To promote the new disc, SAINT VITUS will embark on a European tour in April. Support on the trek will come from DOPELORD.

Formed in 1979, SAINT VITUS were largely influenced by BLACK SABBATH, whose song "Saint Vitus Dance" obviously inspired the moniker. Since their debut album, "Saint Vitus", came out in 1984, the Americans have released seven more full-lengths and two EPs that are summarily considered to be classics of their genre.

SAINT VITUS released a live album, "Live Vol. 2", in September 2016 via Season Of Mist. The set was recorded during the tour for "Lillie: F-65" on March 19, 2013 at the Kulturfabrik in Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.

ast month, it was revealed that original SAINT VITUS bassist Mark Adams is suffering from Parkinson's disease.

Adams has been absent from some of SAINT VITUS's recent tours. Playing bass for the group has been former CROWBAR and current DOWN bassist Pat Bruders.

SAINT VITUS tour dates:

Apr. 03 - Gothenburg (SE) Sticky Fingers

Apr. 04 - Stockholm (SE) Debaser Strand

Apr. 06 - Jyväskylä (FI) Lutakko

Apr. 07 - Helsinki (FI) On The Rocks

Apr. 09 - Oslo (NO) Bla

Apr. 10 - Copenhagen (DK) Pumpehuset

Apr. 11 - Berlin (DE) So36

Apr. 12 - Hamburg (DE) Headcrash

Apr. 13 - Bomal-Sur-Ourthe (BE) Durbuy Rock Festival

Apr. 14 - Dortmund (DE) Junkyard

Apr. 15 - Cologne (DE) Luxor

Apr. 17 - Birmingham (UK) Mama Roux

Apr. 18 - Leeds (UK) Brudenell

Apr. 19 - Glasgow (UK) Audio

Apr. 20 - London (UK) The Underworld

Apr. 21 - Paris (FR) Petit Bain

Apr. 23 - Nantes (FR) Le Ferrailleur

Apr. 24 - Toulouse (FR) Le Rex

Apr. 25 - Barcelona (ES) Boveda

Apr. 26 - Madrid (ES) Copernico

Apr. 27 - Barroselas (PT) Swr Metalfest

Apr. 28 - Bilbao (ES) Kafé Antzokia

Apr. 30 - Fribourg (CH) Fri-Son*

May 01 - Milan (IT) Circolo Magnolia

May 02 - Zürich (CH) Dynamo*

May 03 - Karlsruhe (DE) Dudefest

May 04 - Leipzig (DE) Utc Connewitz

* No DOPELORD

Industrial metal pioneers MINISTRY will enter the studio in early 2019 to begin recording the follow-up to this year's "AmeriKKKant" album. Al Jourgensen told Consequence Of Sound in a new interview: "This [fall] tour pretty much closes out our touring on 'AmeriKKKant', and then we immediately, as of the first of the year, go into starting to record the new MINISTRY record. I have a studio in my house that is currently under construction to make it ready for next year. So when I go back, we'll go right into production on a new MINISTRY record and just record for, like, the next six months — very similar to what we did for [1988's] '[The Land Of] Rape And Honey' — and just record a bunch."

Jourgensen added that the recording of the next MINISTRY album might take even longer, because he could "sidetracked" making new music with REVOLTING COCKS or LARD. He said: "My neighbor right down the street is Gary Numan, so we may hook up together on some stuff. We just talked about that the other day. That may happen, so who knows, it may take a full year, maybe two years before the MINISTRY record comes out, but we start recording January 1st."

As for his plans for LARD, the industrial collaboration with DEAD KENNEDYS legend Jello Biafra, Jourgensen said: "I have a feeling that next year, me and Jello Biafra are gonna do a couple of LARD songs. As a matter of fact, it's not a feeling. I know that as a fact. So, we’re gonna kind of resurrect that."

Earlier this month, Jourgensen told Billboard that he was back on speaking terms with his former MINISTRY bandmate Paul Barker. "We're actually talking about doing something in the very near future," Jourgensen said, "so who knows what may pop up on the next MINISTRY album. That's really gonna get the old-school crowd going."

b>Barker was with MINISTRY from 1986 to 2003 and was the sole other constant member of the band through that time. He left after touring to support the "Animositisomina" album.

Released this past March, "AmeriKKKa" was produced by Jourgensen and was recorded at Caribou Studios in Burbank, California. The artwork was created by Mister Sam Shearon.

New Jersey thrash metal veterans OVERKILL will release their 19th studio album, "The Wings Of War", on February 22, 2019 via Nuclear Blast. The disc was recorded at Gear Recording Studio in New Jersey, SKH Studio in Florida and Jrod Productions with engineering handled by bassist D.D. Verni and guitarist Dave Linsk. The album was produced by the band while Chris "Zeuss" Harris took care of the mixing and mastering. Travis Smith (NEVERMORE, OPETH, SOILWORK, DEATH) was again enlisted to create the artwork for the album.

"The Wings Of War" marks OVERKILL's recording debut with drummer Jason Bittner (SHADOWS FALL, FLOTSAM AND JETSAM), who joined the band last year.

Vocalist Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth comments: "It was a blast making 'The Wings Of War'! It is something old feeling new again, as our chemistry was altered by the addition of Jason Bittner. I was curious from the get-go, how would it pan out? I think what we accomplished here is a new, upgraded OVERKILL that embraced the new chemistry, while taking our roots into the present. The new formula produced not only more raw power, but more places to go with melody, a win, win. The key is being not only interested in the change, but part of it. I'll tell you what, it's still fun as hell making OVERKILL records.

"The Wings Of War" track listing:

1. Last Man Standing

02. Believe In The Fight

03. Head Of A Pin

04. Bat Shit Crazy

05. Distortion

06. A Mother's Prayer

07. Welcome To The Garden State

08. Where Few Dare To Walk

09. Out On The Road-Kill

10. Hole In My Soul

Earlier this year, Ellsworth told Brian Aberback of Patch.com about the musical direction of OVERKILL's new material: "What I notice about it is that there are parts of it that delve into really classic heavy metal that are spawned off the riff. There's kind of a brutal metal riff and then there's a heavy metal riff. The brutal riff being more in the modern sense of OVERKILL but the classic riff goes back into the feel of 'Feel The Fire', 'Taking Over', 'The Years Of Decay' kind of influence.

"I think what we're doing is staying with that classic riff but adding the brutality after," he continued. "So it has the vibe of classic heavy metal with that spawned aggression off of it. Obviously, we're not going to be progressive or off the tracks with where we're going. It's OVERKILL. But the internal end of that is really exciting because we notice every little different nuance in it. So I think it's going to be interesting."

Asked what Jason has brought to the band, Ellsworth said: "He's put a lot of work into the album and his excitement has spread to all of us. He's the first person in this band who's deeply, technically trained. That's one of the most exciting things about this project. This guy is pretty close to a virtuoso when hitting the skins."

OVERKILL released the "Live In Overhausen" DVD and Blu-Ray on May 18 via Nuclear Blast. The set was recorded more than two years ago in Oberhausen, Germany, where OVERKILL celebrated the 25th anniversary of "Horrorscope" and 30th anniversary of "Feel The Fire" by performing both albums in their entirety.

OVERKILL is:

Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth - Vocals

D.D. Verni - Bass

Dave Linsk - Lead Guitar

Derek Tailer - Rhythm Guitar

Jason Bittner - Drums

DEF LEPPARD's official music video for the cover of DEPECHE MODE's "Personal Jesus" can be seen at Billboard.com.

Guitarist Vivian Campbell said: "'Jesus' is the sort of classic song that can be interpreted in many ways, and as DEF LEPPARD has always been the kind of band that can blend genres, it was an easy choice for us. It was that or ABBA!"

DEF LEPPARD's version of "Personal Jesus" is featured on the band's brand new greatest-hits collection titled "The Story So Far - The Best Of", which will be released on November 30. It will be available in multiple configurations: a 2-CD set comprised of 35 tracks, 1-CD set comprised of 17 tracks, 2-LP vinyl, and digital. Among a blockbuster tracklisting loaded with timeless smashes, all four versions feature three new songs, including "Personal Jesus", "Rock On (Remix)" and the original holiday song "We All Need Christmas". As a bonus for collectors, the first pressing vinyl copies of "The Story So Far" feature an exclusive seven-inch single of "Personal Jesus" and "We All Need Christmas".

"The Story So Far" track listing:

isc 1

01. Animal

02. Photograph

03. Pour Some Sugar On Me

04. Love Bites

05. Let's Get Rocked

06. Armaggedon It

07. Foolin'

08. Two Steps Behind

09. Heaven Is

10. Rocket

11. Hysteria

12. Have You Ever Needed Someone So Bad

13. Make Love Like A Man

14. Action

15. When Love & Hate Collide

16. Rock of Ages

17. Personal Jesus

Disc 2

01. Let's Go

02. Promises

03. Slang

04. Bringin' On The Heartbreak

05. Rock On (Radio Remix)

06. Nine Lives (feat. Tim McGraw)

07. Work It Out

08. Stand Up

09. Dangerous

10. Now

11. Undefeated

12. Tonight

13. C'Mon C'Mon

14. Man Enough

15. No Matter What

16. All I Want Is Everything

17. It's All About Believing

18. Kings Of The World

Fan-filmed video footage of Yngwie Malmsteen, Steve Vai, Zakk Wylde, Nuno Bettencourt and Tosin Abasi performing the DEEP PURPLE classic "Burn" on November 27 at the Bethlehem, Pennsylvania stop of the "Generation Axe" tour can be seen below.

Vai recently told the Wichita, Kansas radio station 89.1 KMUW that the inaugural "Generation Axe" tours in 2016 were "fantastic." He explained: "It was one of those things where we got into and we didn't quite know what to expect, but it turned out so much better than we could have expected. We did the Asia run, and we tried to do a Europe run, but the biggest challenge with 'Generation Axe' is everybody's schedule lining up. We couldn't do that but hopefully, maybe, at one point we will. We decided a good time has passed to do another U.S. tour, and I'm actually working on a live record that was recorded from those Asian shows. It's turning out so great. I had no idea. Well, I had an idea."

According to a press release, the "Generation Axe" experience goes way beyond simply gathering five guitar greats on one stage. Much of the time when multiple rock guitarists join in jamming, the results are conventional and often even a mess. But the arrangements of some of the classic tracks performed by these five players makes for a magnificent cacophony of organized chaos unlike anything ever presented before.

Vai said the idea behind "Generation Axe" was "to create a seamless show with one backing band and five completely accomplished and astonishing guitarists that take to the stage in various configurations, performing some of their solo music and merging together as cohesive co-creators of lushly orchestrated guitar extravaganzas."

b>Vai described "Generation Axe" as "pure controlled chaos." "My favorite thing about 'Generation Axe' is the tour bus," he said. "Between the hours of 1 a.m. and 7 a.m., when we're all hanging out in the lounge just rapping. I wake up in the morning [and] my jaw hurts from laughing so much. These guys, they're out of their minds."

"Generation Axe" is currently in the midst of its second North American tour, which wraps up in Los Angeles on December 18.

William Shatner's first-ever holiday album, "Shatner Claus", is out now, featuring a truly eclectic roster of vanguards, icons and misfits that join him on this collection of reinterpreted classics. Today he's unveiled the first music video from it: a rocked-out rendition of "Rudolf The Red Nosed Reindeer" featuring ZZ TOP's Billy Gibbons on guitar. In the video, Shatner, clad in a gold cheetah-print suit, turns a wholesome fireside reading into a rock and roll dance party.

"Shatner Claus" is a holiday album unlike any that have come before it, and includes duets and appearances by Brad Paisley, Judy Collins, Billy Gibbons, Rick Wakeman, Todd Rundgren and more.

"Shatner Claus" was just deemed an essential holiday album by the Los Angeles Times, calling it "a delightfully dramatic outing." The Los Angeles Times also ran a feature on William tied to this album over the weekend, and Associated Press says: "One thing is for sure — this is one of the most unique albums for the holiday season."

Shatner has cultivated a career spanning over 50 years as an award-winning actor, director, producer, writer, recording artist, and horseman. He is one of Hollywood's most recognizable figures and a major philanthropist. He released his first studio album in 1968. In 2018 alone he has published a book and released an album of country music. "Shatner Claus" is William's third album for Cleopatra Records, following 2011's "Seeking Major Tom" and 2013's "Ponder The Mystery".

rack listing:

01. Jingle Bells (feat. Henry Rollins)

02. Blue Christmas (feat. Brad Paisley)

03. Little Drummer Boy (feat. Joe Louis Walker )

04. Winter Wonderland (feat. Todd Rundgren & Artimus Pyle)

05. Twas The Night Before Christmas (feat. Mel Collins)

06. Run Rudolph Run (feat. Elliot Easton)

07. O Come, O Come Emmanuel (feat. Rick Wakeman)

08. Silver Bells (feat. Ian Anderson)

09. One for You, One For Me

10. Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer (feat. Billy Gibbons)

11. Silent Night (feat. Iggy Pop)

12. White Christmas (feat. Judy Collins)

13. Feliz Navidad (feat. Dani Bander)

Bonus track:

14. Jingle Bells (feat Henry Rollins) (punk rock version)

Glenn Danzig spoke to Revolver magazine about the reunion of the classic-era lineup of the horror punk outfit MISFITS — Danzig, Jerry Only and Doyle Wolfgang Von Frankenstein.

MISFITS played two historic comeback concerts in 2016 at Riot Fest in Denver and Chicago that drew rabid fans in droves from all over the world and shattered attendance records at the festivals. More recently, MISFITS played two shows in December 2017 in Los Angeles and in Las Vegas, and in May 2018 in New Jersey.

Regarding how the MISFITS reunion came about, Danzig said: "Jerry and I resolved a lot of legal issues we had with each other. This just happened about two and a half years ago. And I'm seeing all these people die unexpectedly: [David] Bowie, Chris Cornell and Prince, really out of the blue. And I'm just like, if we're going to ever do this, we should do it now while we're still healthy and we still look good and can run around onstage. I take care of myself, man. And we're all in pretty good shape. And who knows how long we're going to be like that. I don't want to be onstage with crutches or a cane singing. Fuck that shit. That's not the MISFITS. MISFITS are fucking take no prisoners. It's in your face, right to the front of the stage — smash your head against the wall until we're done and we say goodnight. That's what it needs to be."

He added: "I don't want to go on tour. A show here, a show there, keep it special. I don't want people to think we're just milking it. We should just be selective and let people see what it really was. And so far it's been insane."

sked if he is enjoying doing that material again, Glenn said: "I just go out there and enjoy the interaction with everybody. People are just losing their minds, so it's a lot of fun. I try to do what I normally do. I'm just me, singing the songs I wrote, going crazy onstage and running all over. I'm enjoying having Dave [Lombardo, ex-SLAYER] drumming because he's one of my favorite drummers of all time and it's just so much fun."

Prior to the Riot Fest concerts, Glenn, Jerry and Doyle last performed together on October 29, 1983.

Joining Glenn, Jerry and Doyle at all the reunion shows so far have been Lombardo and second guitarist Acey Slade.

The original MISFITS band broke up in 1983, and Only brought forth a new version of the MISFITS in 1995. Various members have come and gone, but Only, along with BLACK FLAG's Dez Cadena, has kept some form of the MISFITS in the recording studio and on the road for most of the last two decades.

Sabaton's special platinum edition of Carolus Rex celebrates the album going quadruple platinum and commemorating 300 years since the death of the Swedish king who inspired it. Watch a new video trailer below:

The concept album - which is the band's biggest success to date - charts the rise and fall of the Swedish Empire, in particular the life of Charles XII ("Carolus Rex") who ruled it for 21 years. In an amazing coincidence, the album's quadruple platinum certification comes exactly 300 years after the king's death in 1718. The band will be presented with their quadruple platinum disc later this year, when Carolus Rex will take its place as one of Sweden's most successful home-grown rock albums.

Bass player Pär Sundström said: "Over the past few years we've been traveling around the world to perform, while expanding Sabaton's empire into new countries and meeting incredible new fans along the way. There's no place like home though, and it’s humbling to know that people in our native Sweden are still so amazingly supportive of us after all these years. Thank you to everyone who played a role in making Carolus Rex one of the most successful Swedish rock albums ever!"

Sabaton will release Carolus Rex: Platinum Edition on November 30th, which is the date Carolus Rex was killed in Norway.

Carolus Rex (Platinum Edition) will be available in the following formats:

- 2 CD-Digi

- 2 LP

- 3 CD + 2 Blu-ray Earbook

- Award Edition

- Digital

Pre-orders and more details here.

Finnish metallers CHILDREN OF BODOM will release their tenth album, "Hexed", on March 8, 2019 via Nuclear Blast Records.

CHILDREN OF BODOM frontman, guitarist, and mastermind Alexi Laiho comments: "People have said that this album is generally catchier. So I started thinking about that; perhaps the song structures are easier to grasp on initial listen. But there's some crazy shit in there — almost progressive or at least technical. There are certain melodies across the album that could have come from jazz songs, although they're completely metal with us, of course. [Laughs]"

"For me, it has always been very hard to describe our new music," comments bassist Henkka Seppälä (a.k.a. Henkka T. Blacksmith). "In a way, it always feels familiar, but the new stuff also always surprises me. Here we have something that's very BODOM, but somehow we haven't done this kind of stuff, possibly ever. Then again, someone said that there's a somewhat similar vibe to what 'Follow The Reaper' had. I don't know. Anyway, we had a really hard time choosing the songs for the videos. I guess that's a positive problem to have."

"Hexed" saw the return to Finland's Danger Johnny Studios where COB was reunited with Mikko Karmila ("I Worship Chaos", "Halo Of Blood", "Hatebreeder", "Follow The Reaper" and "Hate Crew Deathroll") who recorded everything except keyboards and also produced the album with the band. Janne Wirman recorded keyboards at Beyond Abilities Studios. The album was mixed and mastered at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Finland.

or this album, the band enlisted Deins Forkas to create the album artwork. Henkka commented on the cover: "For some years I've wanted to try a different approach with our cover art. We are so used to digital art, so it's really hard to do something else. Doing it completely with a computer is somewhat safe and convenient. This time we all agreed to try going old school. We found this cool dude and gave him simple instructions — the cover has to be purple and the reaper has to be central. Half a year later, we got his work, and with little tweaking, we now have the cover of 'Hexed'. It is very different from what we are used to, even the Reaper looks different, but at the same time very spooky."

"Hexed" will be available for pre-order starting December 7.

"Hexed" track listing:

01. The Road

02. Under Grass And Clover

03. Glass Houses

04. Hecate's Nightmare

05. Kick In The Spleen

06. Platitudes And Barren Words

07. Hexed

08. Relapse (The Nature Of My Crime)

09. Say Never Look Back

10. Soon Departed

11. Knuckleduster

12. I Worship Chaos (live)

13. Morrigan (live)

14. Knuckleduster (remix)

Last In Line - Vivian Campbell, Vinny Appice, Andrew Freeman and Phil Soussan - will release their sophomore album, II, on February 22nd via Frontiers Music Srl. A music Video for the first single, "Landslide", can be found below.

Pre-order the new album here, or in various exclusive merch bundles via PledgeMusic.

Vivian, Vinny, Andrew, and Phil have been writing and recording their brand new studio album for the past two years and now are extremely excited to unleash their sonic assault. Produced by Last In Line and Jeff Pilson (Dokken, Foreigner), their sophomore album delivers 11 blistering songs that follow up the musical journey where their debut album, Heavy Crown, left off.

Since inception of the band in 2011 when the original Dio band consisting of Vivian Campbell, Vinny Appice and Jimmy Bain rejoined forces along with esteemed vocalist Andrew Freeman to perform the classic Dio songs they originally wrote and recorded, the band has come a long way and taken a life of its own fueled by the support of the fans around the world.

Last In Line have overcome hardships with the unexpected passing of Jimmy Bain in 2016 and other various members changes, but have soldiered on along with renowned bassist Phil Soussan (Ozzy Osbourne) and have built this band into a heavy contender today.

Tracklisting:

"Intro"
"Black Out The Sun"
"Landslide"
"Gods And Tyrants"
"Year Of The Gun"
"Give Up The Ghost"
"The Unknown"
"Sword From The Stone"
"Electrified"
"Love And War"
"False Flag"
"The Light"

"Landslide" music video:

Accept's founding bassist Peter Baltes has announced his exit from the band. He said in a statement: "To all Accept fans: I hereby announce my departure as bass player from Accept. I have been with the band from the very beginning. Many of you were there as well. I‘d like to thank you all for the great years we shared together. Keep it metal."

Accept's founding guitarist Wolf Hoffmann commented: "We spent four decades together through thick and thin, ups and downs and I remember some incredible moments on stage. There was a blind understanding between us, personally and musically, which is very rare in this business! Looking back, I will forever cherish the carefree early years, the countless hours we spent writing songs, goofing around or roaming cities together on tour - just having a good ol’ time! Especially these last 10 years, after the revival of Accept being so much fun and so successful that I thought we would continue forever and sail into the proverbial sunset together - maybe until one of us would drop dead on stage. But I guess I was wrong, it wasn’t meant to be. To see Peter leave Accept now saddens me immensely but there’s nothing I can do but to wish him well - hoping that this is the right decision for him and that he will find whatever he is looking for… I will certainly miss my musical brother! One thing is certain, however: Accept will continue full steam ahead!”

Drummer Christopher Williams says: "I want to wish Peter nothing but the best in his future endeavors. Peter simply needed a change in his personal life. It has been an absolute blast sharing the stage with him over the last four years. He is one of the most solid rock and roll bass players I've had the pleasure of working with, and I've worked with many. One thing is for certain: I will miss my friend! Thank you Peter for the great memories and the great music. Cheers!

"To the fans: I'm sure this is a shocking moment for many of you. As a diehard fan of many bands myself, I understand that transitions like these are never easy, especially with the legacy someone like Peter has with their band. From one fan to another, thank you all for your continued support.
Love and best wishes to all of you! Accept and the Metal Heart will continue beating.”

The group added in a separate statement: "We are all heartbroken! Peter needed a change in his life and we wish him all the best. He will always be part of the Accept family and to honour his tribute to music history, we should all wish him well. Gaby, Wolf, Mark, Uwe & Christopher…indeed ACCEPT WILL KEEP IT METAL!”

Last Friday, Accept released their new live masterpiece, Symphonic Terror - Live At Wacken 2017. "We are so glad we recorded this unique show - this very special concert at Wacken will always stay in our memories“, states Wolf Hoffmann. And because what started as a premiere at Wacken caused a sensation and gained recognition worldwide, the Symphonic Terror will hit cities live in April 2019. The band have already revealed the first tour dates for Germany.

April
20 - Wuppertal, Germany - Stadthalle
21 - Leipzig, Germany - Haus Auesee
22 - Hamburg, Germany - Mehr!Theater
23 - Fürth, Germany - Stadthalle

May
25 - Saarbrücken, Germany- Congresshalle
27 - München, Germany- Circus Krone

Pre-order for these very special Symphonic Terror shows has started. Get your tickets here.

GUNS N' ROSES frontman Axl Rose has thanked fans and his bandmates for their support after his illness forced the group to play an abbreviated show this past weekend in the United Arab Emirates.

Despite the fact that he didn't feel well, Rose managed to perform more than half of the band's regular 28-song set on Sunday (November 25) in Abu Dhabi before pulling the plug on the gig after playing the GN'R classic "November Rain".

Ahead of GUNS N' ROSES' November 29 concert in South Africa, Rose took to his Twitter account to write: "Wanna thank All the fans, the band n' every1 4 their concern n' well wishes! In Johannesburg w/plenty of time 2 b ready 4 the show! This flu or whatever is a wild ride! Comes in waves. Ur ok till ur not!

"Felt lame explainin' myself earlier on at the gig but really didn't know how things would play out n' we really wanted to do r best 4 the fans. Was a GREAT crowd, awesome venue, cool stage (w/a gentle breeze in the desert!

Thanks again n' hope any1's not 2 disappointed n' we look 4ward 2 see every1 again in the UAE!!"

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix special closed the Asian leg of GUNS N' ROSES' "Not In This Lifetime" tour that has now lasted almost three years. According to The National, the gig was the 157th night of a 31-month jaunt, which went around the world twice, played to five million people and is on track to be the second highest-grossing tour of all time — overtaking even THE ROLLING STONES. Only U2 has grossed more from a single tour than GN'R's projected earnings of $600 million.

GUNS N' ROSES will play the last show of 2018 on December 8 in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Three-fifths of the classic GUNS lineup reunited in 2016 after last performing together more than two decades earlier.

Photo credit: Katarina Benzova

Wanna thank All the fans, the band n’ every1 4 their concern n’ well wishes!?? In Johannesburg w/plenty of time 2 b ready 4 the show!??This flu or whatever is a wild ride! Comes in waves. Ur ok till ur not!? pic.twitter.com/gfbLR7YemW— Axl Rose (@axlrose) November 27, 2018

Felt lame explainin’ myself earlier on at the gig but really didn’t know how things would play out n’ we really wanted to do r best 4 the fans. Was a GREAT crowd, awesome venue, cool stage (w/a gentle breeze in the desert!?)— Axl Rose (@axlrose) November 27, 2018

Thanks again n’ hope any1’s not 2 disappointed n’ we look 4ward 2 see every1 again in the UAE!!???????— Axl Rose (@axlrose) November 27, 2018

Unearth have released an unboxing video for their new album, Extinction(s), out now via Century Media Records. Watch below:

Will Putney (Every Time I Die, Body Count, Gojira, Thy Art Is Murder, Silent Planet) handled the production duties for Extinction(s) at Graphic Nature Studios.

Tracklisting:

"Incinerate"
"Dust"
"Survivalist"
"Cultivation Of Infection"
"The Hunt Begins"
"Hard Lined Downfall"
"King Of The Arctic"
"Sidewinder"
"No Reprisal"
"One With The Sun"

"One With The Sun" video:

"Survivalist" lyric video:

"Incinerate":

In support of the album, the band has announced a co-headline European tour with Darkest Hour in March/April 2019. Support acts will be Misery Signals, Malevolence and Left Behind.

Unearth frontman Trevor Phipps comments: “It's been over two years since we've set foot in Europe and we are more than ready to return for the Death to False Metalcore tour. Hitting the road alongside our brothers in Darkest Hour as well as the stacked package of Misery Signals, Malevolence and Left Behind is something we are very much looking forward to. See you soon Europe!”

Dates are as follows:

March
21 - Köln, Germany - Essigfabrik  
22 - Brugge, Belgium - Het Entrepot  
23 - London, UK - ULU (w/o Malevolence)  
24 - Utrecht , Netherlands - Tivoli Pandora  
25 - Wiesbaden, Germany - Schlachthof  
26 - Hamburg, Germany - Markthalle  
27 - Berlin, Germany - SO36  
28 - Munich, Germany - Backstage   
29 - Leipzig, Germany - Conne Island  
30 - Prague, Czech Republic - Futurum  
31 - Budapest, Hungary - A38  

April
1 - Vienna, Austria - Arena

More Unearth live dates can be found here.

"We have some exciting news for you," states a message from Greek/Swedish metallers, Nightrage. "By now you all may know that during our last European tour supporting Voivod we had the super talented Dino George Stamoglou helping us out behind the drums.

"We now would like to take this opportunity to welcome this handsome 22 year old young man as our new full time drummer as Lawrence Dinamarca is no longer with us. Welcome to the NR family Dino!

"We also want to wish good luck in the future to Lawrence.”

Meanwhile, Nightrage have released a teaser for the upcoming music video for the single "By Darkness Drawn". The single will be available on  December 7th via Despotz Records, and the video will be released on December 14th.

"By Darkness Drawn" is the first single from the upcoming album, Man To Wolf, due for release in 2019. Watch the teaser below, and stay tuned for further updates.

(Photo - Renata Lino)

With the end of 2018 drawing near, most bands are staying under the radar and getting ready for the New Year. That's not the case with symphonic deathcore band, The Convalescence as they have signed to Legend Recordings.

The band has seen success over their career thus far and are excited to see where their new home at Legend Recordings will take them. Vocalist Keith Wampler "We are very excited to be working with a company who understands our vision and believes in our band as much as we do. We're already deep in the Pre-Production/Writing phase of the new album and are working on what we consider to be our best yet."

Covering an infamous band that has been in the metal scene for decades can be a daunting challenge, but The Convalescence is not afraid accept the challenge as they release their cover of Korn's "Coming Undone." The band stays true to the original track, but puts their own unique spin on the song showcasing their talents.

With all the excitement surrounding the band right now, 2019 is shaping up to be a big year for the band with new music and more tour dates to be announced.

Explore the rich lore that has been created through these stories and feel the magic of this imaginative new world, with its own characters, gods and creatures. Norwald, brings you magical lands and magnificent warriors; mythical creatures, life, and death, in the form of power metal songs.

To acquaint the world of Norwald, they have released their first two singles, “Creatures” and “Arden”. “Creatures” regales listeners with the tale of Prince Thostar who is on a quest for the throne. It’s a fast and simple song to introduce both the band and world of Norwald.

“Arden” is a bonus tale, not directly related to the rest of the story told on the upcoming concept album. It is fun and dancey, but with a cold vibe.

With influences such as Nightwish, Rhapsody and Epica, Norwald is just as enchanting as the tale it tells. As to what their debut album brings, composer Grief explains her purpose: 

“The album is, as a whole, an epic tale that goes through a lot of phases, to finish in an epic song that Norwald people would sing in their taverns. To end the whole thing and to make people want to listen to more of our stories, we play Arden, which is a short tale not related to the tale told in the rest of the album.”

“Creatures”:

“Arden”:

Sacramento, California-based technical melodic death metal outfit The Odious Construct recently dropped their five-song tour-de-force EP, Shrine Of The Obscene, through The Artisan Era. Since it's release on October 12th, Shrine Of The Obscene has garnered worldwide praise from fans and writers alike as a smartly crafted effort of catchy high-octane death metal. Check out a guitar and drum playthrough video of the title track:

Throughout the five swift and deadly songs on Shrine Of The Obscene, The Odious Construct carves out a path beyond the typical "complex for complexities sake" approach with a focus built upon catchy guitar melodies, straightforward brutality, and enhanced by orchestral flair to ensure the songs remain stuck in your head.

“Vortex Of Self”:

"Shrine Of The Obscene" lyric video:

Teaser:

They're back! Germany's Hate Squad will release their new album, Reborn From Ashes, on December 7th via Massacre Records. The album will be available as CD Digipak, limited vinyl LP, stream and download. New single "Until I Die" is streaming in the form of a lyric video below.

The album was produced, mixed and mastered by Eike O. Freese at Hamburg's Chameleon Studios. Hiko Kramer is responsible for the cover artwork.

But don't let the cover artwork fool you: Reborn From Ashes is a monster of an album, and exactly the massive hate-bomb that all Hate Squad supporters worldwide hoped for over the last few years.

Tracklisting:

"Against All Odds"
"Death List"
"Amok"
"Reborn From Ashes"
"Retaliation Promise"
"Until I Die"
"Regain The Strength"
"Know Your Enemy"
"Hate Factory"
"2 Miles Behind Enemy Lines"
"Fuck Cancer!"

"Until I Die" lyric video:

Live dates:

August
24-28 - Palma De Mallorca, Spain - Full Metal Cruise

(Photo - Rene Budde)

Greek extreme metal veterans ROTTING CHRIST will release their new album, "The Heretics", on February 15, 2019 via Season Of Mist. The artwork for the disc created by Greek artist Maximos Manolis.

The lyric video for the song "Fire, God And Fear" can be seen below.

Frontman Sakis Tolis comments: "Dear metal brothers around! After almost three years of silence and countless hours of inner search, I can proudly announce, on behalf of the band, our fresh artistic worry that is represented in 'Fire, God And Fear', taken from the upcoming opus 'The Heretics'. A song that definitely won't create a clear opinion on how the new album will sound like, but shows the heretic and atmospheric approach we have chosen for creation. I hope you will enjoy our new album and until we cross paths mentally... Non Serviam brothers and sisters!"

"The Heretics" track listing:

1. In The Name of God (04:14)

02. Vetry Zlye (03:13)

03. Heaven And Hell And Fire (04:52)

04. Hallowed Be Thy Name (05:06)

05. Dies Irae (03:46)

06. I Believe (03:42)

07. Fire God And Fear (04:50)

08. The Voice of the Universe (05:23)

09. The New Messiah (03:07)

10. The Raven (05:23)

With "The Heretics", ROTTING CHRIST is opening a brand new chapter. Sakis, in collaboration with his brother Themis on drums, achieves a perfect balance of amalgamating the band's classic and unique style of riffing and rhythm with exciting new elements sprinkled in to keep its material exciting and fresh. The experience is enhanced by Jens Bogren's equally clear and transparent yet also massive as well as sombre mix and mastering at his widely renowned Fascination Street Studios (AMORPHIS, BORKNAGAR, MOONSPELL, DEVIN TOWNSEND).


With more than 30 years, 13 studio albums, a dozen EPs, singles and split releases, as well as more than 1,250 shows under their belt, 2018 marked the year of ROTTING CHRIST's "Their Greatest Spells", where the band musically revisited its exciting legacy to connect its past with the present.

Asked in an interview with Pavillon 666 if he thought ROTTING CHRIST would last 30 years upon the band's 1988 formation, Sakis said: "It's a full life. No, of course [not]…you don't start the band to exist for 30 years or to be famous or rich or whatever the fuck. We just started the band because I wanted to sound like my idols back then. I wanted to play only one show and now I'm in a position where I've played 1,500 shows. And, no, I didn't expect something like this, but the spirit remains the same, even if I'm not that young. I still have the spirit and the hope that if we are in good health to keep playing with the band until our death. If health permits, of course. It's not up to me. If health does not permit, then I will not serve."

ROTTING CHRIST is:

Sakis Tolis: vocals, guitar, keys

Themis Tolis: drums

George Emmanouil: lead guitar

Van Ace: bass

U.K.-based blackened death metal group HECATE ENTHRONED will release "Embrace Of The Godless Aeon", its first album in five years (and its debut for new label M-Theory Audio), on January 25, 2019. The LP — which features cover artwork by Nestor Avalos (BLOODBATH, ROTTING CHRIST, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER) — can be pre-ordered now on CD and red splatter vinyl at this location. A limited-edition deluxe box set that includes exclusive purple vinyl and cassette editions of the album, a signed photo card and other collectibles is also available.


A new song from the album, "Temples That Breathe" will premiere on streaming and digital download platforms on December 7. A brief teaser clip can be seen below.


One of the U.K. underground's longest-running and most respected acts, HECATE ENTHRONED has been praised by the likes of Terrorizer for its "mixture of death metal aggression with black metal atmosphere." "Embrace Of The Godless Aeon" — the band's first recording with vocalist Joe Stamps, who joined the band in 2015 — sees the group continue to deftly mix black with death, modern with classic and extreme with symphonic. The album, which features guest vocals on three songs by Sarah Jezebel Deva (CRADLE OF FILTH, THERION, MORTIIS), was co-produced by Dan Abela (VOICES, THE ANTICHRIST IMPERIUM).


Says bassist Dylan Hughes: "This album with its epic sweeping orchestration and heavy aggression represents a new chapter for us cementing the chemistry of the current lineup and our partnership with M-Theory. A welcome return from Sarah Jezebel Deva hints to the grandiose flavor of earlier releases, but this time, it's tempered with a guitar and drum sound forged from solid steel and then edged by a razor-sharp production from Dan Abela. The summoning of unholy flame and terror that is the cover art is an oil painting commissioned from in-demand satanic artist Nestor Avalos and begins your visceral journey through cold bleak landscapes, crushing tormented seas and searing shards of heavy metal."


riginally co-founded in Wales by guitarist Nigel Dennen in the mid-1990s, HECATE ENTHRONED is dedicated to delivering their own brand of evil metal with little regard to politics or the trends of popular demand. The group's 1997 debut, the Andy Sneap-produced "The Slaughter Of Innocence, A Requiem For The Mighty" (Blackend Records), was a seminal release in the then-burgeoning orchestral black metal movement. Since then, several full-lengths and EPs and numerous live performances have firmly established the band as one of extreme metal's most important voices, a sentiment that "Embrace Of The Godless Aeon" firmly reinforces.


HECATE ENTHRONED's next live performance will take place on December 1 at the Tabernacl Chapel in Llandundo, North Wales, followed by a show in Belgium on December 14 with Altar at De Verlichte Geest in Roeselare. The group plans to tour extensively throughout 2019.

Swedish metallers IN FLAMES will release a new single and video, "I Am Above", on December 14. The clip was once again directed by Patric Ullaeus of Revolver Film Company, who has previously worked with DIMMU BORGIR, LACUNA COIL, AMARANTHE and KAMELOT, among others.

A teaser for the "I Am Above" video is available below.

IN FLAMES recruited American drummer Tanner Wayne, best known for his work with UNDERMINDED, SCARY KIDS SCARING KIDS and CHIODOS, to sit behind the kit for the band for its 2018 live appearances.

Wayne stepped into IN FLAMES following the apparent recent departure of Joe Rickard, who played on the band's 2016 studio album, "Battles".


b>Tanner made his live debut with IN FLAMES in July in Brno, Czech Republic.

Longtime IN FLAMES drummer Daniel Svensson announced in 2015 that he was leaving the band to focus on his family life.

IN FLAMES' current lineup features American bassist Bryce Paul, who has been playing most of the shows with the group since longtime bassist Peter Iwers's November 2016 exit.

In a recent interview with Mexico's Etic's Live, IN FLAMES vocalist Anders Fridén stated about the band's current plans: "We released an album called 'Battles' and that was released two years ago, I think. We are working on something, and people who know what we sound like today will definitely recognize it, but there are elements there that will feel a little bit new here and there. With IN FLAMES, we don't want to change it too much, but we want to change a little from album to album. It's still important for us to have the melody, that's the first thing. We grew up on melody and melody is everything for us. Then you can do a lot of things, of course. It's very melodic and heavy at the same time."

Regarding IN FLAMES' knack for integrating different styles into the band's music, Anders said: "I see it as a natural evolution. You can only do so many riffs on the guitar. It's all about notes in a different order and a lot of things has been done, but you're taking influences from here and there and you mix it up and make it your own. That's how the music develops. I really think that we all fit within this. Then, it's obviously up to the audience if they're open-minded enough. Can you mix classic with more than the heavier, can you do this and that? In my opinion, good music is good music. You can do that. I like bands that try to take something and move it forward and mix and match from different outlets. That's progress. In my world, there are no different genres, just good music and bad music."

HATEBREED remains one of the most relevant and impactful acts in the hard rock and metal scenes. The Connecticut band will celebrate 25 years of ruthless breakdowns, pit-stirring anthems, and poignant lyrics across eight albums and consistently sold-out shows in 2019. The band, which has gone from playing basements and backyards to being a featured worldwide attraction on countless festivals and high-profile tours from Ozzfest to Warped Tour to Download, will commemorate two-plus decades by embarking on a 25th-anniversary tour.

The first leg of the tour will feature support from OBITUARY and CRO-MAGS, two bands that HATEBREED have covered in their career and who have influenced the signature and instantly recognizable HATEBREED sound. TERROR and FIT FOR AN AUTOPSY will round out this "can't miss" juggernaut of a lineup. The initial trek will kick off in Philadelphia in April, with an additional leg to be announced shortly. All confirmed dates are below.

"I can't believe it's been 25 years already," said HATEBREED frontman Jamey Jasta. "We're excited to bring out this massive tour package with some of our favorite bands. Every band on this bill is a headliner in their own right. The show will be run festival-style with bands you don't want to miss playing early. Activate the pit!"


"Looking forward to this one — 25 years of HATEBREED, celebrated with not only friends, but a couple bands who influenced us so much that we covered their songs on 'For The Lions'. Come celebrate the entire catalog with us!," said HATEBREED guitarist Frank Novinec.


All killer, no filler here," said HATEBREED drummer Matt Byrne. "This April will be a sick tour for HATEBREED. Celebrating 25 years is a big accomplishment for any band. But it's that much sweeter when you're doing it with some of your favorite bands in tow. We love OBITUARY so much that we covered them on our 'For The Lions' record. We love CRO-MAGS so much that we covered them on our 'For The Lions' record. We love TERROR and FIT FOR AN AUTOPSY so much that... ;) See you all in April!"

"We are excited to be invited to HATEBREED's 25th-anniversary U.S. tour and super honored to be a part such an awesome lineup," stated OBITUARY drummer Donald Tardy. "Looking forward to throwing down each night with them and bringing some of our southern swamp metal to this tour. Gonna be sick!"

"HATEBREED's 25th anniversary tour is gonna be a banger — the CRO-MAGS are psyched as fuck to be part of it," proclaimed frontman John Joseph.


"The lineup for this tour is insane," said TERROR frontman Scott Vogel, echoing all of those sentiments. "We are very much looking forward to being on this run with some of our favorite bands."

HATEBREED 25th-anniversary tour dates with OBITUARY, CRO-MAGS, TERROR, FIT FOR AN AUTOPSY:

Mar. 07 - San Diego, CA - House of Blues*

Apr. 04 - Philadelphia, PA - Franklin Music Hall**

Apr. 05 - Worcester, MA - The Palladium

Apr. 06 - Clifton Park, NY - Upstate Concert Hall

Apr. 08 - Toronto, ON - Danforth Music Hall

Apr. 09 - Ft. Wayne, IN - Piere's

Apr. 10 - Detroit, MI - Harpos Concert Theatre

Apr. 11 - Chicago, IL - Concord Music Hall

Apr. 12 - Pittsburgh, PA - Stage AE

Apr. 13 - Cincinnati, OH - Bogarts ^

Apr. 15 - Tampa, FL - The Ritz Ybor

Apr. 16 - Atlanta, GA - The Masquerade

Apr. 17 - Charlotte, NC - The Underground

Apr. 18 - Silver Spring, MD - The Fillmore Silver Spring

Apr. 19 - New York, NY - PlayStation Theater

Apr. 20 - New Haven, CT - College Street Music Hall

* With BLEEDING THROUGH, ASESINO, STRIFE

** Featuring MUNICIPAL WASTE (No OBITUARY)

^ No OBITUARY

Californian rockers BUCKCHERRY will release their new studio album, "Warpaint", on March 8, 2019 via Century Media/RED Music. The 12-song album, featuring 11 new BUCKCHERRY songs along with a cover of the NINE INCH NAILS classic "Head Like A Hole", was produced by Mike Plotnikoff, whose last collaboration with the band was the platinum-certified album "15". The album art was created by Aaron Marsh and can be seen below.

Pre-orders for "Warpaint" will begin on January 11, 2019.


Singer Josh Todd comments: "Good things come to those who wait and we have been very patient and thorough with the song writing for 'Warpaint'. We took into consideration all the factors and what this record means to, not only us, but the great BUCKCHERRY fans around the world. This record takes the listener on an unforgettable journey and I'm very proud of it."


BUCKCHERRY plans extensive worldwide touring throughout 2019 commencing with four Southern California shows in January, followed by a month-long European tour in February. The first leg of the North American tour will begin in March.


b>BUCKCHERRY has just premiered the video for "Head Like A Hole". The clip was shot in Los Angeles and directed by Jeremy Saffer.

Todd told Billboard that the NINE INCH NAILS cover "happened really organically. We were in the studio making the record, just kind of going through some old songs while they were setting up," he said. "We jammed it out the first time and it was like, boom, automatically sounded right as if we'd written it, which is what we always want to achieve when we do a cover.

"Our producer, Mike Plotnikoff, was recording the whole time and said, 'Hey, why don't you guys come in and hear this?' He put up a little rough mix of it and we were like, 'Wow, this sounds really good. We should do it.'"

Back in September, Todd told the 105.7 The Point radio station that BUCKCHERRY wrote 30 songs for the follow-up to 2015's "Rock 'N' Roll". "We've been writing songs since November of last year, and we really molded it into something really great," he said.

Asked how they whittle down so many songs to just a 10-track album, BUCKCHERRY guitarist Stevie Dacanay (a.k.a. Stevie D.) said: "You kind of know. When you [are writing] the songs, it kind of takes a life of its own, and you can really kind of feel it if it's working or not. And if it is working, then we pursue it; if not, we kind of put it to the side right away."

On the recent "Gen-X" summer tour with P.O.D., LIT and ALIEN ANT FARM, BUCKCHERRY was playing two new songs, "The Vacuum" and "Chaos Is The Ladder", both of which are expected to appear on the upcoming LP.

BUCKCHERRY's new disc will mark the band's first release since the departures of guitarist Keith Nelson and drummer Xavier Muriel and addition of Kevin Roentgen and Sean Winchester, respectively.