Canadian metal maniacs Skull Fist have released a music video for the first single "You Belong To Me", from their much-anticipated third studio album Way Of The Road, which will be out October 26th, via NoiseArt Records (Europe), Napalm Records (North America), and October 24th, 2018 on Spiritual Beast (Asia).

Frontman Zach Slaughter comments: "This is the first record without all of the graphic art, It just felt right to do something a little more real this time around. The sound is more natural, I wanted the cover to be more natural as well. Raw, nothing to hide behind. The songs and lyrics can probably give you an idea on why we choose to present it all like this. We released "You belong to me" first since it's got more of a staple Skull Fist sound. If you've ever stood in a room and been told the walls are red even though you hear that voice of reason sayings its blue then you'll get this track. There's a lot of different extremes in songwriting on this record and I don't think any one song is standout on this thing. I think if you've got the time and are interested in how we see things then just listen to the whole record from start to finish. Do people still sit and listen to albums at this point?"

Watch the video below:

A strong moral compass in battle with even stronger drinks...

When Skull Fist set off their first riffs and deliver their third studio album full of authenticity, honesty and shady lyrics, it feels like drowning in a sea of confusing heavy metal morality. The quartet from Toronto, Canada are locked in a life long struggle with a twist on nostalgic heavy metal and a persistent desire for spiritual glory and personal peace. Relight the fire that was started with the debut record and take another step further with every note and word of the new nine song album Way Of The Road.

With their second album Chasing The Dream from 2014, the young Canadians already proved that the album title said it all and that they didn't allow any throwbacks in their career, even though more and more obstacles seemed to appear in their way. After multiple lineup rotations, a broken neck and frontman Zach Slaughter's vocal cord surgery, it temporarily seemed, as if the Fist itself was a double edged knife.

But resigning has never been an option: "It's been 3 years of surgeries and injections", Zach recalls. "I can sing in the studio but I'm still working towards getting together for live gigs. I think I can hack it though, it's a ton of workout and that's ok. I dug myself into the hole so it's up to me to climb back out of the fucker!"

Obviously, Zach somehow took advantage of this forced break by investing his recovery time into songwriting and the development of new ideas resulting in diverse and lyrically as well as musically ambitious tracks.

Mixed by Eric Ratz, Way Of The Road will see the light of day in October, and for some, the title might sound like a logical sequel to Chasing The Dream. Zach himself sees it as perfect description for the rollercoaster of emotions that had him between disillusionment and hope in the past years: "For me it's a realization that every trait is in you at all times. I guess the balance between compassion and reason. Trying to figure out what is inside your head is a real thought or emotion and what is just social circumstance behavior. I'm just trying to sort out what the flaws are, where they are coming from and how to accept it.”

And although the new album is filled with sing-alongs and passionate anthems, a genuine pain and struggle is omnipresent and seems to find salvation in the music itself: "I think all of the songs are either loosely based on something that happened or was directly motivated by a specific event in the last few years. I'm trying to take stuff that needs to be buried in the ground. Music is a lot of fun to do, but I think it's a solid way to clear up space in my head. Take all the thoughts and emotion I have about it, shove it onto a track and then try to stop thinking about it, turn them into grave markers. Make room for some nice stuff", he laughs.

(Photo - Stefanie Meyer)

Progressive metal pioneers Fates Warning continue promoting their new live album Live Over Europe, recently released via InsideOutMusic worldwide. A new lyric video created by John Kaimakamis and the Nightwatchers for the track “Point Of View“ can be seen below:

Coming up next, Fates Warning will be playing a string of shows in South America:
 
October
9 - Santiago, Chile - Club Subterráneo
11 - Arequipa, Peru - Jarawa / Lima Metal Fest Sideshow
13 - Lima, Peru - Lima Metal Fest III

Unfortunately, due to prior commitments dummer Bobby Jarzombek will not be with the group for these dates, but instead Craig Anderson (Ignite, Crescent Shield) will be filling in during these shows.

To order for Live Over Europe, check here for your format of preference. Or order the 2CD or 3LP (+ 2CD as bonus) from the InsideOutMusic webshop here.

Gathered during the group’s most recent European headlining run for their latest studio album Theories Of Flight in January 2018, Live Over Europe includes recordings from eight different cities (Aschaffenburg, Germany, Belgrade, Serbia, Thessaloniki and Athens, Greece, Rome and Milan, Italy, Budapest, Hungary as well as Ljubljana, Slovenia) and a total of 23 songs in over 138 minutes of playing time, spanning 30 years of the group’s seminal career.

Live Over Europe was mixed by Jens Bogren (Opeth, Kreator, Symphony X) and mastered by Tony Lindgren at Fascination Street Studios in Sweden and will be available as limited 2CD Mediabook, Gatefold 3LP + Bonus-2CD or as Digital Album.

Tracklisting:

CD 1:
"From The Rooftops"
"Life In Still Water"
"One"
"Pale Fire"
"Seven Stars"
"SOS"
"Pieces Of Me"
"Firefly"
"The Light And Shade Of Things"
"Wish"
"Another Perfect Day"
"Silent Cries"
"And Yet It Moves"

CD 2:
"Still Remains"
"Nothing Left To Say"
"Acquiescence"
"The Eleventh Hour"
"Point Of View"
"Falling"
"A Pleasant Shade Of Gray, Pt. IX"
"Through Different Eyes"
"Monument"
"Eye To Eye"

“Life In Still Water”

“The Light And Shade Of Things”:

"Firefly":

Unboxing video:

(Photo - Stephanie Cabral)

The Icelandic Viking metal heroes Skálmöld present the first video from their upcoming album Sorgir (eng.: sorrow). Skálmöld, known for their unique sound, taking you with “Sverðið” (eng.: sword) right into one of the four stories full of tragedy and death. But beware, there are two sides! As every story is told from two perspectives, first called “Sagnir” (tales) and second “Svipir” (ghosts), the last four songs of Sorgir will give you a different view of the previous experience.

While Skálmöld are currently playing their sold out shows together with the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra (Sinfóníuhljómsveit Íslands) in their hometown Reykjavík in front of fans from 37 different countries, you can be amongst the first to listen to “Sverðið”.

Skálmöld states: “We are happy to share with you the first single from our album “Sorgir” (“sorrow”). This (quite folky) song is an epic tale of a brave viking fighting a battle and winning against the odds, until his sword brakes in half and he is killed.”

Sorgir is a dark, cold and tragic album dealing with Icelandic myths of superstition, shadows, spectre and despair. Look elsewhere for something light, warm and comforting. Soaring melodies, folk elements and harsh outbursts remind of the chilly beauty of Skálmöld's home country - Iceland, the eternal and awe-inspiring source of inspiration for neck breakers such as "Gangari" and the gripping epic "Mara".

Due for release on October 12th via Napalm Records, the album is available for pre-order in the following formats:

- 1 CD Digipak + Bonus Track
- 2 LP Gatefold in different colors

Tracklisting:

"Ljósið"
"Sverðið"
"Brúnin"
"Barnið"
"Skotta"
"Gangári"
"Móri"
"Mara"

Skálmöld are:

Baldur Ragnarsson - Guitar/Vocals
Björgvin Sigurðsson - Vocals/Guitar
Gunnar Ben - Keyboards/Vocals/Oboe
Jón Geir Jóhannsson - Drums/Vocals
Snæbjörn Ragnarsson - Bass/Vocals
Þráinn Árni Baldvinsson - Guitar/Vocal

(Photo - Gupbi Hannesson)

Hagen, Germany based death grind shredders Stillbirth have unleashed a new lyric video for their song "Highest Of Malice" off of their new album Annihilation Of Mankind which will be released next Friday, August 31st on Unique Leader. The blistering album shows Stillbirth at their most sickeningly extreme. 

Annihilation Of Mankind tracklisting:

"Fictional Entertainment"
"Enemy Of The Enemy"
"Hypnotized By Lies"
"Psychological Manipulation"
"Firststrike"
"Highest Of Malice"
"Torturized"
"Plague Of Warfare"
"Torn Apart"
"Nuclear Stench"
"The Sky Turns Black"
"Annihilation Of Mankind"

"Psychological Manipulation" lyric video:

 

I See What I Became is the impending new full-length from Mirrors For Psychic Warfare, the industrial collaboration between Neurosis' Scott Kelly and Buried At Sea's Sanford Parker. Produced by Seward Fairbury (Corrections House) and Negative Soldier, mastered by Collin Jordan (Eyehategod, Indian, Wovenhand, Voivod), with decibel manipulation by Dave French (Brothers Of The Sonic Cloth, The Anunnaki), the duo's follow-up to 2016's self-titled debut boasts eight tracks of unsettling and unapologetic audio demolition.

In advance of its release, check out the video for "Crooked Teeth", created by Chariot Of Black Moth. Issues producer Seward Fairbury of the clip, "This is exactly the kind of mind disgracing garbage I have come to expect from these two fuckers. It's not nice, so go fuck yourselves this is the real Death Disco."

Tracklisting:

“Animal Coffins”
“Tomb Puncher”
“Body Ash”
“Flat Rats In The Alley”
“Thing Of Knives”
“Crooked Teeth”
“Death Cart”
“Coward Heat”

Trailer:

Leipzig, Germany's Walking Dead On Broadway performed at this year's edition of Wacken Open Air. Pro-shot video of the band's full set can be seen below:

Setlist:

"Haunted "
"Sleeping Titans"
"Last Existence"
"Pitch Black"
"Gospel Of The Kingdom"
"Song Of Courage"

Walking Dead On Broadway will release their third studio album, Dead Era, on September 28th via Long Branch Records. Dead Era is about twitching skeletons in the closet of history, which ultimately never were dead. Dead Era is a synonym for their musical evolution because of the deathcore roots of the band. This chapter will be closed with this album.

Pre-order Dead Era here, and watch a video for the album track "Gospel Of The Kingdom" below.

Tracklisting:

"Dead Era"
"Red Alert"
"Hostage To The Empire"
"Our Labour, Our Idol, Our Pride"
"Punish The Poor"
"Gospel Of The Kingdom"
"Song Of Courage"
"The Fire Never Lies"
"Anti-Partisan"
"Standstill"
"Dead End Utopia"
"Your God Is A Tyrant"
"Benevolent Warfare"

"Gospel Of The Kingdom" video:

"Hostage To The Empire" video:

Find the band's tour itinerary here.

Lineup:

Nils Richber - Vocals
Michael Kalusche - Guitars
Maximilian Kette - Guitars
Kevin Klemm - Bass
Stephan Hoffmann - Drums

Light The Torch (formerly known as Devil You Know) performed their debut live show at Saint Vitus Bar in Brooklyn, NY on July 9th. The full set can now be seen below:

Light The Torch will be touring with Trivium and Avatar in October and November.

October
3 - Tampa, FL - The Ritz Ybor
4 - Atlanta, GA - Buckhead Theater
5 - Raleigh, NC - The Ritz
6 - Norfolk, VA - The Norva
8 - Cincinnati, OH - Bogarts
9 - Nashville, TN - Cannery Ballroom
11 - Baltimore, MD - Rams Head Live
12 - Huntington, NY - The Paramount
13 - Philadelphia, PA - Electric Factory
14 - Worcester, MA - The Palladium
16 - Cleveland, OH - House of Blues
17 - Royal Oak, MI - Royal Oak Music Theatre
19 - Oklahoma City, OK - Diamond Ballroom
20 - Sauget, IL - Pop's Nightclub
21 - Chicago, IL - House of Blues
22 - St. Paul, MN - Myth Live
23 - Fargo, ND - Sanctuary
25 - Edmonton, AB - The Ranch Roadhouse
26 - Calgary, AB - The Palace Theater
28 - Vancouver, BC - Commodore Ballroom
29 - Seattle, WA - Showbox SODO
30 - Portland, OR - Crystal Ballroom
31 - Spokane, WA - Knitting Factory

November
2 - Anaheim, CA - House Of Blues
3 - Berkeley, CA - UC Theatre

The Man Who Loves To Hurt Himself, the powerful documentary film about Today Is The Day's Steve Austin, will see official release through global entertainment distribution operation Gravitas Ventures on August 28th. Watch a new clip from the film below.

Steve Austin, whose noise-laden, experimental and fiercely aggressive musical output over two decades has served as testimony, touched hearts and myriad troubled lives. Not many people can say they have so fully dedicated themselves to what they love and believe as Steve Austin has. To many, he defines the word "legend." The loose but subdued methodical subtlety of the movie stands in sharp contrast to an artist known in the worldwide underground of extreme music for abrasive, loud, chaotic spectacle and neo-violent imagery through a slow, brooding and emotional ninety-three minutes that covers a year of conversations and ride-a-longs with the casual aesthetic of natural conversation supported by raw grainy fan shot footage, old pictures, personal home videos, career spanning amulets, in a self-examination of the psyche of a modern-day "madman" and "master." Ride along as Austin's first-person account brings balance to these opposing forces, reckoning and stretching himself from the drive to create his musical vision, engaging and performing intense shows around the world, to being home with his wife and children. How one near-death experience led him to connect with the love of his life and begin the transition, fulfilling his destiny as a loving family man while completing his mission to bring relief his followers, and overcome being the man who loves to hurt himself.

The Man Who Loves To Hurt Himself is not your typical music documentary, but rather a film that focuses on the story of the artist himself, and what it means to express yourself on an existential level no matter what the cost. The trailer for this film on YouTube had over twenty-thousand hits within three months of being posted and has received a wide array of awards through its screenings at various international film festivals over the past year.

Gravitas Ventures is releasing The Man Who Loves To Hurt Himself on DVD and across all video on demand and digital platforms beginning on August 28th. Pre-orders can be placed at iTunes here. Barnes & Noble DVD pre-orders here and Blu-ray here.

See the trailer for The Man Who Loves To Hurt Himself below:

Fifth Angel recently put the finishing touches on their first new album in almost 30 years The Third Secret, which will be released on October 26th. The album features the incredible talents of guitarist and lead vocalist Kendall Bechtel, bassist John Macko and drummer and backing vocalist Ken Mary.

Says bassist John Macko, “When we began this process, we always were mindful to write songs that moved us as a band first. We felt that if we achieved that, then the music will most likely touch our fans as well.” Adds lead vocalist and guitarist Kendall Bechtel, “We are very proud of the new album! We hope the fans will hear the classic threads of the Fifth Angel they know and love, along with the growth and maturity the individuals of the band have gone through over the years. We hope they love the new songs as much as we do!”

Today the band reveals the album cover artwork, created by  Zsofia Dankova as well as the tracklisting.

Tracklisting:

"Stars Are Falling"
"We Will Rise"
"Queen Of Thieves"
"Dust To Dust"
"Can You Hear Me"
"This Is War"
"Fatima"
"Third Secret"
"Shame On You"
"Hearts Of Stone"

Fifth Angel will release their first digital single and lyric video for “Can You Hear Me” on September 7th. Also on that day will the the start of the album pre-order.

Lineup:

Ken Mary - drums
John Macko - bass
Kendall Bechtel - vocals, guitars

Finnish melodic metallers SoulHealer have released a lyric video for "Fly Away", featured on the band's upcoming album Up From The Ashes, out on September 14th via Rockshots Records. Find the clip below.

SoulHealer play traditional heavy and power metal with no compromises, with an old fashioned attitude to the 80's blended with a modern metal sound. Catchy lyrics and unforgettable guitar riffs will deliver a perfect record to both the 80's lovers and the new listeners looking for great melodies and easy-to-remember songs.

Tracklisting:

“Up From The Ashes”
“Through Fire And Ice”
“Fly Away”
“Sins Of My Father”
“Prepare For War”
“Pitch Black”
“The Final Judgement”
“Behind Closed Doors”
“Am I In Hell”
“Land Of The Free”

“Fly Away” lyric video:

"The Final Judgement":

Finland's Arion will release their new album, Life Is Not Beautiful, on October 19th via AFM Records. Pre-order the album here, and watch a video for the single "Unforgivable" below.

The idea for symphonic metal band Arion was hatched in the fall of 2011 in the famed music school Sibelius Lukio in Helsinki, where drummer Topias Kupiainen and keyboardist Arttu Vauhkonen got together with guitar whiz kid Iivo Kaipainen. In short order, the threesome found bass player Georgi Velinov and vocalist Viljami Holopainen to round out the band.

Musically astonishingly accomplished, the newcomers raised some serious waves right off the bat in January 2013 when they debuted their debut song “Lost”, a symphonic metal gem in its own right, on television, participating in Finnish television’s UMK song contest.

Soon enough the 17–18 year old teen prodigies’ exceptionally impressive musical chops caught the attention of Mr. Riku Pääkkönen, the owner of Ranka Kustannus and the mastermind behind the overnight success stories of Children Of Bodom, Nightwish, Sonata Arctica and several others. In May 2013 Arion signed a recording deal with Ranka and entered the studio to record their debut EP New Dawn. New Dawn was released in November 2013 the same year to critical acclaim, while the band was already forging one of the most jaw-dropping metal debuts in Finland ever, Last Of Us.

There’s probably no other nation as vigilant for melodic metal music as Japan, where the love for beauty and aesthetics has blanketed all sorts of art for millennia. The Japanese are famous for their appetite for power metal, so, as crazy as it might sound, it shouldn’t even surprise anyone that Arion played their first concerts in Tokyo and Nagoya already before releasing their debut album. Ergo, it’s only fitting that Arion became one of those ultra-rare European artists whose debut album was released in Japan before its domestic release. Grandiose yet heartfelt, Last Of Us still stands as a one of a kind jewel in its genre, an album that hasn’t lost one iota of its splendour since the day of its release in July 2014.

A year later, in August 2015, singer Viljami Holopainen amicably left the band stating that his heart lies in other kind of music, and the band announced their new singer, Lassi Vääränen. In March 2016 Vääränen’s mettle was tested and proven worthy with his recording debut as a member of Arion on the explosive duet “At The Break Of Dawn” with Elize Ryd of Amaranthe fame. To date “At The Break Of Dawn” still is in heavy radio rotation in the nationwide Finnish Radio Rock and stands as the most streamed Arion song across all digital platforms.

After three more powerhouse singles; the thought-provoking "Unforgivable”, the heartrending ballad “Through Your Falling Tears” and the clarion call “No One Stands In My Way”, scattered through the next 2.5 years bring us now to the brink of release of Arion’s sophomore album Life Is Not Beautiful. And as potent the singles quadrilogy is, Life Is Not Beautiful is much more than a hit singles compilation. No, we would venture to claim that songs such as the in-your-face “Punish You” and the bombastic, melodic bullet train of “The Last Sacrifice”, lest we forget the album’s closing statement “Life Is Not Beautiful”, will squish some rivalling songwriters’ self-confidence for years to come.

Crafted every bit as meticulously as its predecessor, Life Is Not Beautiful is Arion’s declaration of independence. On their debut largely guided by their kind colleagues Matias Kupiainen (Stratovarius) and Jani Liimatainen (The Dark Element, Cain’s Offering), Arion now proudly demonstrate the next level in their musical progress and band leader Iivo Kaipainen’s newly found lyrical prowess.

World of metal beware! Arion are not the curiosity of a band of green-horned teenager prodigies anymore. Having faced just the right amount of adversity to gel as a band and improved in leaps and bounds, Arion are not just able - they’re ready and raring to go.

Tracklisting:

"The End Of The Fall"
"No One Stands In My Way"
"At The Break Of Dawn" (Feat. Elize Ryd)
"The Last Sacrifice"
"Through Your Falling Tears"
"Unforgivable"
"Punish You"
"Life Is Not Beautiful"
"Last One Falls"

"Unforgivable" video:

Lineup:

Lassi Vääränen (Vocals)
Iivo Kaipainen (Guitars)
Arttu Vauhkonen (Keyboards)
Georgi Velinov (Bass)
Topias Kupianen (Drums)

Greek black metallers Lucifer's Child will release their second studio album The Order on November 9th via Agonia Records. The band, featuring members of Rotting Christ, Nightfall and Chaostar, recorded eight new songs clad in artwork by Daniele Valeriani (Dark Funeral, Dissection, Mayhem).

Lucifer's Child originates from Athens. Its music is a bridge to the world of atmospheric black metal, and a vessel for spiritual self-expression through lyrics. The goal of unifying these two elements gleamed clearly in the eyes of George Emmanuel, a prolific guitarist primarily known for his work as part of Rotting Christ (and a former guitarist of Chaostar), when he formed the band together with bassist Stathis Ridis (a member of another long-running Hellenic metal unit, Nightfall) in 2013. Born from a partnership between two talented musicians, the duo quickly expanded to take in vocalist Marios Dupont (Karma Violens) and drummer Nick Vell (Chaostar), and delivered their debut album The Wiccan in 2015. Encouraged by the album's keen reception, followed by several festival appearences (incl. Inferno Festival, Blastfest and Incineration Festival), Lucifer's Child returns in a darker, more extreme shade, passionate in outperforming its bold debut.

The Order was recorded, mixed and mastered in Emmanuel's own recording studio, Pentagram. He commented on the new album: "After three years of converging and sculpting our ideas and sounds we are ready to present our second full length album entitled The Order. Lucifer awaits!"

Tracklisting:

"Viva Morte"
"The Order"
"Fall Of The Rebel Angels"
"Through Fire We Burn"
"El Dragón"
"Black Heart"
"Haraya"
"Siste Farvel"

Album formats:

- Digipack CD
- Black LP
- Transparent Yellow LP
- T-shirt
- Digital

Pre-orders will be announced soon.

Lineup:

George Emmanuel - guitars
Stathis Ridis - bass
Marios Dupont - vocals
Nick Vell - drums

On Sunday, October 7, Vicky Cornell and the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) will celebrate Seattle's son, music icon and late Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Chris Cornell, with the public unveiling of a commemorative statue. Following the unveiling, footage of SOUNDGARDEN's performance at The Wiltern, captured by the Artist Den, will be screened inside MoPOP's Sky Church.

Since announcing plans for the statue, MoPOP and the Cornell family have received an overwhelming response from the community wanting to honor Chris's life. The decision was made to move the statue unveiling from Wednesday, August 29 to Sunday, October 7 to accommodate crowds.

The life-size bronze statue was commissioned and donated to MoPOP by the late musician's wife, Vicky Cornell. The statue sculpted by artist Nick Marras showcases the rock legend in one of his iconic poses with his signature boots, dog tag, layers and long locks.

"As an artist, my husband was not only one of the greatest voices in rock history but also one of the greatest and most prolific poets of his time- his contribution to music birthed a movement that would leave an indelible mark on popular music forever. It only makes sense that I donate this statue to MoPop with their dedication to the ideas and risk-taking that fuel contemporary popular culture," said Vicky Cornell. "Like my husband and his music, MoPop reaches multigenerational audiences, and this is the perfect place where people near and far can come together to not only support the museum and its programs, but also celebrate the legacy that my husband left behind, not only in Seattle but around the world."

"MoPOP is honored to receive this gift from Vicky Cornell and pay tribute to one of the most powerful and important voices in popular music," says Jasen Emmons, artistic director, MoPOP. "MoPOP serves to celebrate the Seattle music scene and the luminaries who have emerged from the Northwest and Chris was a key figure who has made a lasting impact on generations worldwide."

Vicky and MoPOP invite the community to attend the statue unveiling and RSVP to attend the screening. Both events are free to the public. Space is limited for the screening.

Sunday, October 7, 2018

5:30 p.m.: Public Statue Unveiling

Speakers will include representatives from Cornell family, MoPOP and special guests

6 p.m.: Members of SOUNDGARDEN host special screening of "Live From The Artist's Den: Soundgarden" filmed at The Wiltern in Los Angeles, California.

RSVP Required

Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

Statue unveiling will take place on the northwest corner of 5th Avenue N and Thomas Street

Screening will take place in MoPOP's Sky Church

The event is free and open to the public.

RSVP is required to attend the screening: MoPOP.org/ChrisCornell

All ages. 21+ to drink.

Cornell was pronounced dead on May 18, 2017 after being found unresponsive in his Detroit hotel room the previous night. SOUNDGARDEN had played a show earlier that evening.

The 52-year-old had sedatives and an anxiety drug in his system on the night he died by hanging himself. According to a completed toxicology report released by Michigan's Wayne County Medical Examiner, the drugs didn't contribute to the cause of death.

In addition to SOUNDGARDEN, Cornell sang with AUDIOSLAVE and TEMPLE OF THE DOG, while also recording four solo studio albums and one live set on his own.

WAR OF THRONES's official music video for the song "Savior" can be seen below. The track is taken from the band's debut album, "Conflict In Creation", which was released in March via Sonic Night Music Club. The disc was recorded and mixed by James Fox at Sweet Spot Studio in Seminole, Florida and mastered by Maor Appelbaum (HALFORD, ARMORED SAINT, FAITH NO MORE) at Maor Appelbaum Mastering in California.

Forged in steel, WAR OF THRONES was formed when vocalist Wade Black and virtuoso guitarist Rick Renstrom joined forces in 2012. Previously, the two had worked together in LEASH LAW, releasing "Dogface" in 2005.


Wade is no stranger to metal. For more than two decades, he has thrilled audiences worldwide, fronting such metal bands as CRIMSON GLORY, SEVEN WITCHES and LEATHERWOLF. Rick entered the scene in 2000, joining vocalist Rob Rock's touring and recording band. Having toured around the world, Rick's incredible and inspiring guitar playing has been witnessed by thousands of people.

WAR OF THRONES' lineup is rounded out by bass player Rich Marks (VIVALDI METAL PROJECT) and former YNGWIE MALMSTEEN drummer Patrick Johansson.


WAR OF THRONES has shared the stage with such bands as KAMELOT, DROWNING POOL, ANVIL and MUSHROOMHEAD.

CATTLE DECAPITATION will play two special shows in Southern California next week supporting NAPALM DEATH, at San Diego's Brick By Brick and Los Angeles' Teragram Ballroom. The performances serve as a precursor to the band's month-long North American tour this fall supporting SUFFOCATION. The journey runs from October 21 through November 17. Additional support will be provided by KRISIUN and SOREPTION.


Currently working on the follow-up to 2015's "The Anthropocene Extinction" album, CATTLE DECAPITATION has officially welcomed guitarist Belisario Dimuzio (EUKARYST) and bassist Olivier Pinard (CRYPTOPSY) to its ranks.

Comments the band: "We're pleased to announce the new lineup that will appear on our next album, due out in fall 2019!

"Many of you who have come to our shows in the past couple of years have seen that we have had a second guitarist on stage with us for the first time in the band's existence. We proudly welcome Belisario Dimuzio from San Diego's EUKARYST as a full-time member, and he will appear on the next album. We are also happy to announce Olivier Pinard (CRYPTOPSY) as our new bassist, who will be appearing on our next album as well. Oli has filled in on shows with us in the past. The chemistry we have with both him and Bel is undeniable, and we're excited to have them with us.

"Be sure to keep an eye out for CRYPTOPSY's next release entitled 'The Book Of Suffering: Tome 2'. Also, be on the lookout for a huge announcement coming in September regarding a super-cool CATTLE DECAPITATION release that has been in the works for a decade now. It's an exciting time for the DECAP!"

"The Anthropocene Extinction" came out in August 2015 via Metal Blade. The CD was once again helmed by Dave Otero (ALLEGAEON, CEPHALIC CARNAGE), who worked on 2012's "Monolith Of Inhumanity".


Photo by Pablo Montano

On October 19, Canadian guitarist, vocalist, keyboardist, songwriter and producer Aldo Nova will release his first new album release in over three decades. Titled "2.0" (Megaforce), it's a collection of supercharged reinventions of six classic songs off his self-titled smash debut, plus one new original, "I'm A Survivor", initially written for FOREIGNER singer Lou Gramm.


"2.0" stands as a testament to the extraordinary integrity and continuing imagination of an uncompromising artist who would only make his comeback on his terms. "I thought, 'I'm gonna become visible again when I have something to say, and when I have something that's good enough that I can present it to my fans,'" Nova says. "Because that's always been my priority."


The idea for "2.0" was set in motion in late 2016. "When I turned 60, I told myself I was going to turn the page," Nova says. "I realized I had to shut the book and write a completely new book." He wanted to celebrate his debut's 35th anniversary in some fashion, but rather than simply remaster and reissue the album, he thought to "bring the songs into the 22nd century." He was sober, calm, confident, full of faith and in the best shape of his life. As it turned out, the angst, ego and hunger of his younger days were overrated.


A Montreal native, Nova was approached by a 15-year-old Celine Dion to producer her first album, and released "Blood On The Bricks" on Jon Bon Jovi's Jambco label in 1991. It stood as the culmination of a long-running friendship and, as any knowledgeable rock fan might argue, a thank-you note of sorts: the rock superstar lifting up the personal hero whose sound provided the blueprint for his own hits.


Nova provided guitar, keys and background vocals for the demo of BON JOVI's first hit, "Runaway", and ended up playing with an assemblage of session musicians throughout BON JOVI's 1984 self-titled debut. Nova's imprint is also all over Jon Bon Jovi's debut solo album, "Blaze Of Glory" — especially the chart-topping title track, on which Nova's writing and producing went uncredited but were absolutely essential.


"Blood On The Bricks" was released alongside "Smells Like Teen Spirit", and the landscape changed completely. "NIRVANA was amazing," he says. "Just the way Kurt Cobain could rip his own soul out when he sang."


Over the next three decades, Nova's journey would take him through great professional highs and painful personal lows, and eventually into self-discovery and spiritual contentment. He decided again to focus on his roles as a writer, producer and session musician, capitalizing on the goodwill he'd generated in the industry to put food on the table for his family.


During the '90s and 2000s, in addition to tracks for popular foreign-language artists, Nova collaborated with Carole King, Jon Bon Jovi, Faith Hill and Clay Aiken (he co-wrote his hit "This Is the Night"), and did hugely successful work with Celine Dion. In 1997, Nova won a Grammy for Dion's blockbuster album "Falling Into You" and co-produced/co-wrote later Dion singles like the global smash "A New Day Has Come" and "You And I", the latter chosen as Hillary Clinton's campaign song in 2008.


Canadian music-industry bigwig Paola Simonetto became the love of Nova's life, as well as his advocate and catalyst. Simonetto continues to inspire and support Nova, though not from this earthly plane. "During the time that I was working on '2.0', my wife was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer," he explains. "I managed to finish the album right before she passed away on Christmas Day. I still was able to take care of every doctor's appointment, every chemo treatment. I was cooking and cleaning and at night I worked on my album.


"She always had very good ears. She gave me a lot of pointers on what to do with the music and what not to do," he continues. "She was a big part of why '2.0' sounds as good as it does."


"With '2.0', my goal has already been achieved, as far as I'm concerned," Nova says. "I wanted to beat the 1.0 to death. The second thing is to reintroduce my music to the old fans, and play to a new generation of fans who just developed an interest. I don't think that young generation has heard music like this ever before. I'm on top of my game now. I'm ready for it."


"2.0" track listing


01. Fantasy 2.0

02. Ball and Chain 2.0

03. Heart to Heart 2.0

04. It's Too Late 2.0

05. Can't Stop Lovin' You 2.0

06. Foolin' Yourself 2.0

07. I'm a Survivor

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Former LYNYRD SKYNYRD guitarist Ed King died Wednesday. He was 68 years old. Although a cause of death has not yet been revealed, he had been reportedly been battling lung cancer and had recently been hospitalized.

King's family confirmed his passing on his Facebook page. They wrote: "It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of Ed King who died at his home in Nashville, Tennessee on August 22nd, 2018. We thank his many friends and fans for their love and support of Ed during his life and career."

LYNYRD SKYNYRD founder Gary Rossington said he was "shocked and saddened" by King's passing. "Ed was our brother, and a great songwriter and guitar player," he wrote. "I know he will be reunited with the rest of the boys in rock and roll heaven. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sharon and his family."

King — known for co-writing LYNYRD SKYNYRD's classic song "Sweet Home Alabama" — was also a founding member of '60s psychedelic band STRAWBERRY ALARM CLOCK. He was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2006 as a member of LYNYRD SKYNYRD. King performed on the band's first three albums — "Pronounced Leh-nerd Skin-nerd" (1973), 1974's "Second Helping" (1974) and "Nuthin' Fancy" (1975). He played with LYNYRD SKYNYRD from 1972 to 1975, and again from 1987 to 1996.

AEROSMITH singer Steven Tyler has explained his decision to take Donald Trump to task once again for using AEROSMITH's songs at his rallies. On Tuesday (August 21), during his appearance at West Virginia's Charleston Civic Center, AEROSMITH's "Livin' On The Edge" was blasted through the arena as the crowd filed in. Tyler's attorney has in turn sent a "cease and desist" letter to the White House accusing the President of willful infringement in broadcasting the song. The singer is citing the Lanham Act, which states that trademark infringement can occur if the use of a song by a politician is likely to create confusion in the marketplace that the musician endorses the politician, especially if this association harms the musician's reputation (referred to as "dilution by tarnishment").

Tyler denied that his move was politically biased, writing in a tweet: "This is not about Dems vs. Repub. I do not let anyone use my songs without my permission. My music is for causes, not for political campaigns or rallies. Protecting copyright and songwriters is what I've been fighting for even before this current administration took office."

He added in a separate tweet: "This is one of the reasons why [AEROSMITH guitarist Joe Perry] and i have been pushing the senate to pass the Music Modernization Act," referring to a bill that could ensure digital music services pay fair royalties to rights holders while giving streaming companies certainty, legal protection and more efficient payment tools

"No is a complete sentence," he concluded.

Back in 2015, Trump and Tyler butted heads over the same issue when AEROSMITH's 1973 classic "Dream On" was used at Trump rallies, in which Tyler formally pressed the campaign to stop using his songs as it violated his copyright. BMI eventually squashed the issue by pulling the performance rights for the song. There is no word as to whether Tyler will demand the rights to "Livin' On The Edge" — which is administered through ASCAP — to also be pulled.

Tyler is reportedly a registered Republican and attended the first GOP debate back in August 2015.

THIS IS NOT ABOUT DEMS VS. REPUB. I DO NOT LET ANYONE USE MY SONGS WITHOUT MY PERMISSION. MY MUSIC IS FOR CAUSES NOT FOR POLITICAL CAMPAIGNS OR RALLIES. PROTECTING COPYRIGHT AND SONGWRITERS IS WHAT I’VE BEEN FIGHTING FOR EVEN BEFORE THIS CURRENT ADMINISTRATION TOOK OFFICE.— Steven Tyler (@IamStevenT) August 22, 2018



THIS IS ONE OF THE REASONS WHY @JOEPERRY AND I HAVE BEEN PUSHING THE SENATE TO PASS THE MUSIC MODERNIZATION ACT.

NO IS A COMPLETE SENTENCE.— Steven Tyler (@IamStevenT) August 22, 2018

Former MEGADETH guitarist Marty Friedman will release a new live album, "One Bad M.F. Live!!", on October 19 via via Prosthetic Records.

A track from the disc, "Whiteworm", can be streamed below.

"One Bad M.F. Live!!" was recorded at the final concert of Friedman's most recent tour, on April 14 at "Guitarfest 2018", which was held at Centro Cultural Roberto Cantoral in Mexico City.

"This live album is a tip of the hat to the live albums that blew my mind when I was a kid," explains Friedman. "The musical content itself is modern and atomic-powered, but the presentation is decidedly old school. The pacing of the show, the audience participation stuff, the special live arrangements of the songs, these are the things that got me all jacked up as a kid. I like to give the audience the feeling that they are really getting something unique, something that only happens at their show, not just a recital of the songs exactly as they know them. There are lots of happy accidents, once-in-a-lifetime ad libs, things that could have only happened because we were high on that particular audience's energy."


"One Bad M.F. Live!!" was recorded on the tour in support of Friedman's latest solo album, "Wall Of Sound", which was released in August 2017 on Prosthetic Records, and debuted on Billboard's Heatseekers chart at No. 12.

"I've had albums that have charted higher, sold more, and got more attention over my career," says Friedman, "but 'Wall Of Sound' is the album I've been striving to make ever since I picked up a guitar. I have an almost unhealthy amount of pride towards that album. The thrill I get from playing the 'Wall Of Sound' stuff live is something that I wanted documented, and that's what 'One Bad M.F. Live!!' is."

Joining Friedman on "One Bad M.F. Live!!" are his bandmates Kiyoshi on bass, Jordan Ziff on guitar and Chargeeee on drums.

Friedman will celebrate the release of the disc with an October 21 show at The Viper Room in Los Angeles. A full U.S. tour will take place in 2019.

"One Bad M.F. Live!!" track listing:

01. Street Demon

02. Elixir

03. Amagi Goe

04. Inferno

05. Self Pollution

06. Devil Take Tomorrow

07. Mutation Medley (featuring "Asche zu Asche", "My Oh My", "Forbidden City", "Tornado Of Souls")

08. Ripped

09. Whiteworm

10. Undertow

11. Dragon Mistress

12. Kaeritakunatta Yo

"Wall Of Sound" was produced by Friedman, engineered by Paul Fig (GHOST, RUSH, ALICE IN CHAINS) and mixed by Jens Bogren (KREATOR, OPETH, SEPULTURA). The disc was recorded in part at Dave Grohl's Studio 606 in California and was previously described by Friedman as "a way more intense version" of 2014's "Inferno": "deeper, sadder, happier and more aggressive."

RATT singer Stephen Pearcy will release his fifth solo album, "View To A Thrill" on November 9 via Frontiers Music Srl. The follow-up to 2017's "Smash" was produced by Matt Thorne and Pearcy and was mixed and mastered by Thorne and Stephen's longtime guitarist and collaborator, Erik Ferentinos.

The fist single from "View To A Thrill", a song called "I'm A Ratt", can be streamed below.

"View To A Thrill" includes 11 superb songs written by Pearcy, together with guitarist Ferentinos, that will surely please fans of his last solo effort, "Smash", as well as fans of RATT. The track listing flows perfectly and takes you on an audio journey through blistering rockers mixed with slower, more measured numbers. Like RATT's catalog, this is a record that showcases the art of the riff. Ferentinos is truly Pearcy's secret weapon, as displayed by the mind-bending solos throughout "View To A Thrill".

"View To A Thrill" track listing:

01. U Only Live Twice

02. Sky Falling

03. Malibu

04. One In A Million

05. Double Shot

06. Secrets To Tell

07. Not Killin’ Me

08. Dangerous Thing

09. I'm A Ratt

10. From The Inside

11. Violator

Pearcy's solo band:

Stephen Pearcy - Lead Vocals

Erik Ferentinos - Guitars, Back-Up Vocals, Keys

Matt Thorne - Bass, Keys, Back-Up Vocals

Scot Coogan - Drums

Speaking about the songwriting process for his solo material, Pearcy told Music Existence: "RATT's music is its own entity and animal, and it has its own schematics. With my solo stuff, I tend to do whatever I like — an acoustic song, a really heavy song — and go places and talk about things that I want to. It's my freedom of speech. That's one thing I like about it, and I'm always writing, so what else can I do, you know? Just try to get it out and get it heard! I don't care if it sells ten million or nil million; it's just what I do. You do the best that you can."

Pearcy and bassist Juan Croucier are the sole remaining original members in RATT's current lineup, which made its live debut on July 7 in Mulvane, Kansas. Joining them in the band are drummer Pete Holmes (BLACK 'N BLUE, RATT'S JUAN CROUCIER) and guitarists Jordan Ziff (RAZER) and Chris Sanders (BRITNY FOX, KNIGHT FURY).

Japanese pop metal act BABYMETAL will release a new digital live video on Friday, August 24. "Legend - S - Baptism XX" includes the band's two-day performance at the Hiroshima Green Arena on December 2 and December 3, 2017. This concert was the first headline show for BABYMETAL to perform in Hiroshima, which is the vocalist Su-Metal's birthplace and a special concert to celebrate Su-Metal's 20th birthday.

This new digital live video contains all 16 songs, including BABYMETAL's new song "In The Name Of".

Track listing:

01. In The Name Of

02. Ijime, Dame, Zettai

03. Gimme Chocolate!!

04. Doki Doki ☆ Morning

05. Akatsuki

06. Gj!

07. Syncopation

08. Meta Taro

09. No Rain, No Rainbow

10. Song 4

11. Megitsune

12. Karate

13. Road Of Resistance

14. Headbangeeeeerrrrr!!!!!

15. Babymetal Death

16. The One (English version)

Earlier this year, spokesperson for BABYMETAL's American management company confirmed Yui Mizuno (a.k.a. Yuimetal) remained a member of the group after she was a no-show at the first two concerts of BABYMETAL's U.S. tour. A 5B Artist Management representative released a statement saying that "there is a new narrative for the future of the band which is currently evolving. The storyline has changed. This was the basis of the 'Metal Resistance Episode 7: The Revelation' video."

The representative went on to explain that the seven hooded figures in the bombastic clip represent a new era for the band, with the addition of new characters. "The who, when, where, and how of The Chosen Seven will be presented as the concept unfolds," the spokesperson said.

Formed in 2010, BABYMETAL is the offshoot of the Japanese pop idol group SAKURA GAKUIN that performs a distinctly Japanese mix of schoolgirl J-pop and heavy metal.

Photo courtesy of earMUSIC

Grammy Award-winning, acclaimed alternative rock luminaries SMASHING PUMPKINS have announced that their "Shiny And Oh So Bright" tour will be live-streamed to the world via the "Live Nation Concert Series" on Twitter on Friday, August 24 at 8:15 PT from Seattle, Washington. Fans outside of the U.S. can access the livestream at this location.

The "Shiny And Oh So Bright" North American arena tour is SMASHING PUMPKINS' first in nearly 20 years to feature founding members Billy Corgan, guitarist James Iha and drummer Jimmy Chamberlin. Longtime SMASHING PUMPKINS guitarist Jeff Schroeder, bassist Jack Bates, and keyboardist Katie Cole are also taking part, as the band moves to a three-guitar lineup to better emulate the signature tones and textures of their albums.

In June, SMASHING PUMPKINS dropped "Solara", the first recording in over 18 years to feature founding Corgan, Iha and Chamberlin. Recorded in Malibu, California at Shangri La Studios with producer Rick Rubin and guitarist Jeff Schroeder, "Solara" is available now to stream and download on all digital music platforms via Martha's Music under license to Napalm Records.

Corgan, Iha and Chamberlin last played together on 2000's "Untitled". "Untitled" was Iha's last PUMPKINS recording prior to "Solara", while Chamberlin's was 2009's "FOL".

Original SMASHING PUMPKINS bassist D'Arcy Wretzky is is not taking part at all in the band's reunion after recently claiming that Corgan offered to have her come out and do sporadic appearances on the current reunion tour.

Formed in Chicago, Illinois in 1988, SMASHING PUMPKINS released their heralded debut album, "Gish", in 1991 and found mainstream success with 1993's four-times-platinum "Siamese Dream" and 1995's 10-times-platinum "Mellon Collie And The Infinite Sadness".

Photo credit: Olivia Bee

In a new interview with CBS San Francisco, Anthrax bassist Frank Bello reveals that the band are gearing up to work on new music.

Asked if he, Scott (Ian) and Charlie (Benante) try to work on new material for their next album while they're on the road, Frank responds, "What happens on the road, you can’t really get together right. You just have your own personal thing, maybe putting down some ideas on your iPhone or tape recorder or whatever you write with. I usually just use my iPhone. So if you have riffs and you have melodies, you remember them; what’s good and what’s going to stick. So that’s what I do.

"We have some tentative time that we’ve got booked in January to try to get together, Charlie Scott and I. But I also have another record coming out with this side project coming up in January. It’s with Dave Ellefson from Megadeth called Altitudes & Attitude. I have to deal with that too, so I’m going to be a little bit busy. But I like that kind of busy."

Read the full interview at CBS San Francisco.

In live news, Anthrax is currently supporting Slayer on their Farewell Tour, remaining dates are listed below:

August
23 - Sunlight Supply Amphitheater - Portland, OR
26 - SAP Center - San Jose, CA

November
1 - Dublin, Ireland - 3Arena
3 - London, England - Wembley Arena
5 - Cardiff, Wales - Motorpoint Arena
7 - Birmingham, England - BCA
9 - Manchester, England - Arena
10 - Newcastle, England - Metro Radio Arena
12 - Glasgow, Scotland - The Hydro SSE
14 - Dortmund, Germany - Westfalenhalle
15 - Zwolle, Netherlands - IJsselhallen
17 - Madrid, Spain - Palacio Vistalegre
18 - Barcelona, Spain - Palau Sant Jordi
20 - Milan, Italy - Mediolanum Forum
21 - Zurich, Switzerland - Halle 622
23 - Vienna, Austria - Stadthalle
24 - Freiburg, Germany - SICK-ARENA
26 - Hamburg, Germany - Barclaycard Arena
27 - Lodz, Poland - Atlas Arena
29 - Munich, Germany - Olympiahalle
30 - Erfurt, Germany - Messehalle

December
2 - Berlin, Germany - Mercedes-Benz Arena
3 - Copenhagen, Denmark - Royal Arena
5 - Stockholm, Sweden - Hovet
6 - Oslo, Norway - Spektrum
8 - Helsinki, Finland - Helsingin Jäähalli

MEGADETH drummer Dirk Verbeuren's drum playthrough video of the song "Rattlehead", which originally appeared on the band's 1985 album " Killing Is My Business... And Business Is Good!", can be seen below.

Last November, MEGADETH leader Dave Mustaine was asked by the RQP 104.3 FM radio how the band goes about the process of choosing a new drummer. He responded: "It's very difficult. The drumming is the hardest part in the band, because you need to be really physically fit every night — every night, no matter what. You can't be sick. And I think that drumming is a thankless position. A lot of times, the drummers go without being recognized for how hard their job is. Consequently, you get drummers that have bad attitudes after a while. It's hard to be around them, because a lot of drummers don't get the recognition they deserve, and they get bitter. For us, we've been really lucky with the last two drummers we had — with Chris [Adler] and with Dirk [Verbeuren]. And even the guy before Chris, Shawn [Drover], was an easy-going kind of guy. But it's not always like that. And Chris helped us find Dirk. Dirk is a lot like [late MEGADETH drummer] Gar Samuelson, which is really refreshing, because that's how this whole thing started. I was playing jazz-metal-type riffs, because I didn't wanna sound like my last band [METALLICA]. I wrote that shit, I can write whatever I want, so I knew what not to do, so I did something different, and that's how MEGADETH was born. I wanted to do something a little bit different, and I needed a different kind of drummer to do that."

The 43-year-old Belgian-born-and-now-Los-Angeles-based Verbeuren had been playing with SOILWORK for more than a decade before being recommended for the MEGADETH gig by Adler, who called Dirk "probably [one of the] top three drummers in the world."

Verbeuren told All About The Rock about learning MEGADETH's material for a live performance: "The current live set is based on 'Dystopia' and the early albums, from Gar Samuelson to Nick Menza. These guys really had their own style. Nick was actually one of my influences as a young drummer.

"I had ten days to study eighteen songs. I tried to capture the intention behind the drum parts in order to respect the band's vision. Gar and Nick have a more old-school swing whereas Chris Adler's approach is more contemporary. I stay true to the originals while injecting some of my own groove and flair. Chris was very helpful in guiding me as to what the band would expect from me, which is super cool of him. It made the rehearsal and first shows a lot easier."

In interview with the KATT Rock 100.5 FM radio station, Mustaine described Dirk as "is one of the most pleasant, easy-to-get-along-with guys I've ever met in my life. I'll walk up to him and he'll smile and lean forward and pat me on the back. He goes [adopts thin accent], 'How's it going, buddy?' I could say, 'Oh, man…'… anything. 'Oh, okay, buddy.' [He] smiles and pats me, 'cause he's just a happy guy. I've never, ever, ever seen him not smile."

Immortal Guardian – the Texas-based “super metal” quartet featuring acclaimed guitarist/keyboardist Gabriel Guardian and powerhouse vocalist Carlos Zema (ex-Outworld) – has premiered a music video for their new song, “Aeolian.” The clip, which BraveWords is premiering, includes footage of the group's high-energy live performances during their recent summer tour.

The lyrics of “Aeolian” describe the difficulties of being a struggling musician, something which Gabriel – who is currently filling in on guitar and keyboards for Powerglove during their ongoing summer tour – has recently experienced firsthand. Soon after the group arrived in Portland, Oregon last weekend, he was rushed to a local hospital, where he had emergency appendicitis surgery. Not wanting to leave Powerglove hanging, he returned to the stage the following night and hasn't missed a show since.

“Aeolian” – which is also now available for streaming on Apple Music, Spotify and other digital platforms – is featured prominently on Immortal Guardian's full-length debut, Age Of Revolution, which will be released via M-Theory Audio on September 28th. Fans who preorder digital copies of the album via Amazon, iTunes and Bandcamp will receive the song – as well as the previously released “Zephon” – as instant downloads. Physical copies of Age Of Reasoning are available for preorder via the M-Theory Audio webshop.

Immortal Guardian will support the album's release by hitting the road once again with recent tour mates Exmortus, with Hatchet also appearing on select dates. A complete list of the group's upcoming tour dates appears below, with more shows to be confirmed in the near future.

Hailing from the same state as guitar greats Dimebag Darrell and Stevie Ray Vaughan, Immortal Guardian proudly fly the flag of musical innovation and virtuosity for the Lone Star State. Over the past few years, the group has released two acclaimed EPs, Revolution Part I (produced by Roy Z of Halford/Bruce Dickinson fame) and Super Metal: Edition Z, that showcased a full-frontal metal assault of anthemic melodies, technical rhythms, furious shred and high-flying vocals by Brazilian singer Carlos Zema (Outworld).

In support of their EPs, the group has made jaws drop on stages in not only their home state - where they've performed alongside some of the biggest names in metal, including Judas Priest, Dragonforce, Kamelot, Symphony X, Sonata Arctica, Slayer, Metal Church, Soilwork and Steve Vai - but also abroad in countries such as Brazil and Russia, and during high-profile performances at ESPN's X Games, South By Southwest and the Fun Fun Fun Fest.

In addition, Gabriel Guardian has developed an extensive following on YouTube, where his unique dual-instrument covers of classics by the likes of Iron Maiden, Pantera and Guns N' Roses have garnered hundreds of thousands of views. His virtuosity was also recently showcased on the MTV program Amazingness.

Tracklisting:

“Excitare”
“Zephon”
“Aeolian”
“Trail Of Tears”
“Never To Return”
“Stardust”
“Hunters”
“Fall”
“State Of Emergency”
“Awake”

“Zephon” lyric video:

Immortal Guardian live:

September
18 – Margate, FL – O’Malley’s
19 – Orlando, FL – The Haven
20 – New Orleans, LA – Southport Hall
23 – Laredo, TX – Ethos Live
24 – El Paso, TX – Rockhouse Bar And Grill
25 – Gallup, NM – Juggernaut Music
26 – Mesa, AZ – Club Red
27 – Flagstaff, AZ – Green Room
28 – Las Vegas, NV – Dive Bar

Deathrite return with their fourth and most sophisticated album yet. Nightmares Reign is due to be released via Century Media Records on November 9th. Today the band reveals the artwork by Wæik and announces the tracklisting, featuring eight crushing new songs that are taking their uncompromising signature sound to new heights.

Having already stirred up the cauldron of death metal quite a bit with Deathrite (2011), Into Extinction (2013) and Revelation Of Chaos (2015), Deathrite's newest album Nightmares Reign blends immensely heavy riffs, ferocious vocals and haunting lead guitars into a grooving mix that heaves through your stereo. Produced by Richard Behrens at Big Snuff Studios, Nightmares Reign is sure to become a standout record for existing and new fans alike.

Nightmares Reign will be available in the following formats:

· Ltd. CD Digipak
· Gatefold LP+CD & Poster
· Digital

Tracklisting:

"When Nightmares Reign"
"Appetite For Murder"
"Invoke Nocturnal Light"
"Demon Soul"
"Devils Poison"
"Bloodlust"
"Obscure Shades"
"Temptation Calls"

Lineup:

Andy Heinrich - Guitar
Anton Hoyer - Bass
Stefan Heinz - Drums
Tom Michalis - Guitar
Tony Heinrich - Vocals

(Photo - Manuel Danger, Big Snuff Studio)

"I Am Your King," the debut single from Texas/Florida duo Invasion It is now available for streaming. Originally included on RockMetalTalk.com's Bands to Burn Vol. 1 compilation CD, the single offers fans of fiery, memorable metal a taste of what's to come on the band's forthcoming debut EP, targeted for release later this year. In addition to band members Jay Stone (former Isle 9, Warfly Army, Lost Appetite) and John Ortega (The Enemy Within), the song features the female vocals of Melinda Kay who is also credited as co-writer.

Former Isle 9, Warfly Army, and Lost Appetite frontman Jay Stone joins The Enemy Within's John Ortega to form Invasion It. With a range of influences from Metallica, Manson, Opeth, and many others, Invasion It crafts its own style of heavy metal. Invasion It's first release "I am your King" was showcased on Bands to Burn To Vol. 1 along with members of Marilyn Manson, Fear Factory, Davey Suicide, Green Jello, BILE to name a few, as well as being a favorite and featured on dozens of Internet Radio programs worldwide. Invasion It also plan on finishing and releasing a 5-song EP late 2018 and performing several live dates in 2019.

Saigon Kick guitarist Jason Bieler has released a new solo song entitled "Honestly". Check it out and purchase it below.

Honestly by Jason Bieler

On July 14th, Bieler performed a solo acoustic show at Rockwood Music Hall in New York, NY. He has released a live album to showcase the night, available via the Bandcamp player below. This is a live direct feed from the board at Rockwood Music Hall.

Jason Bieler Live in NYC by Jason Bieler

The tracklist is as follows:

"Indian Intro"
"All I Want"
"Coming Home"
"Close To You" 
"Down By The Ocean"
"Edgar"
"God Of 42nd Street" 
"Russian Girl" 
"One Step Closer"
"Satellite" 
"Hostile" 
"Sgt. Steve" 
"The Lizard"

Bieler recently checked in with the following update:

"I gotta take a sec and tell you these solo gigs have been some of the most unexpectedly wonderful experiences I’ve ever had the pleasure to partake in. We all get together, sing a bunch of songs, a wee bit of cutting the rug, and I regale you with tales from my pirating days. How this applies to you or your life, well, I’m not sure…but I guess the idea that you are kind of toying with, the one that excites you but then the rational 'you' makes up a myriad of excuses and obligations to prevent you from taking the plunge… well, take the damn plunge. Life is strange and wonderful and sometimes shorter than you think; who has time for anything but food, love, music, and dreams? Now back to your regularly scheduled nonsense. Have a great weekend!"

Bieler's solo tour schedule is currently as follows:

September
28 - The Funky Biscuit - Boca Raton, FL
30 - 80's In The Park - Cocoa Beach, FL

October
13 - The Hotel Cafe - Los Angeles, CA

November 
2 - The Attic - Ybor City, FL