MEGADETH leader Dave Mustaine says that he is "fighting" to get another heavy metal category added to the Grammy Awards.

In an effort to continuously evolve its Grammy Awards process, The Recording Academy announced in April 2011 that it had restructured the Grammy categories across all genres and fields, bringing the total number of categories to be recognized at the 54th Grammy Awards in 2012 to 78 from 109. As a result, instead of separate "Best Metal" and "Best Hard Rock" performance prizes, there is now a single "Best Metal Performance" award. In addition, "Metal" remains one of the 70 or so categories that aren't televised during the performance-heavy broadcast.

Mustaine, who landed his first-ever Grammy back in 2017 when he took home the trophy for "Best Metal Performance" for the title track of MEGADETH's latest album, "Dystopia", told the San Francisco's 107.7 The Bone radio station that heavy metal "deserves" to have another category at the annual event. "I joined the Grammy chapter out in Nashville to address that exact thing," Mustaine said (hear audio below). I joined the Grammy chapter because we have one metal category and I think they've got a dozen polka categories. I stopped going to the Grammys because you'd have to sit through, like, 30 Latin jazz records, and then you'd have to sit through another 30 jazz Latin records. And it's, like, 'What?' So a couple of years ago, the guy that produced our record 'Th1rt3en', Johnny K, and a couple of other guys at the Grammys tried to get another [heavy metal] category, and they were so close, but it failed. And I called them up and I said, 'We're doing this.' So 2020, we're fighting — we're getting all of the metal labels that we know, we're trying to get them all together to petition the Grammys to give us another metal category."

He added: "My record was one of the Top 25 records of the year worldwide for Universal. Don't tell me that we don't deserve another category."

b>MEGADETH's "Dystopia" nod marked the band's twelfth Grammy nomination in the "Metal" category (including nominations in the discontinued "Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance" category). Even so, Mustaine told The Columbus Dispatch in a 2017 interview that he won't be fully satisfied until he has a Grammy with his own name on it.

"As crazy as I am, I was thinking about the Grammy the other day and [how] it was given to MEGADETH," he said. "I was thinking it would surely be a lot better if it was given to Dave Mustaine and not to MEGADETH. I guess you've got to keep the fire burning."

MEGADETH is currently working on the follow-up to "Dystopia" for a 2019 release.

The band will support OZZY OSBOURNE on the next North American leg of the BLACK SABBATH singer's "No More Tours 2" in May, June and July 2019.

Female-fronted rock and metal band, Upon Wings, has been hard at work in the studio creating new music, and in the spirit of the holidays, the group is releasing a Christmas single as a free download.

The song features vocalist Anne Autumn Erickson, guitar work and production by Kevin Jardine (Uplift Productions) and mastering by Grammy-nominated Glenn Brown (Kid Rock, Spinal Tap). Stream the song below.

Download the song - an angelic, acoustic version of "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel / God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" - via uponwings.com

"We wanted to release something as a gift to thank listeners for their continued support," Erickson said. "In the spirit of the holidays, we crafted this single and put a new spin on the traditional Christmas songs, 'O Come, O Come, Emmanuel' and 'God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.' We're excited to release the holiday song and more new music ahead."

Upon Wings' debut EP, 2013's Afterlife, features guest vocals and production by Brett Hestla (Dark New Day, former Creed), guitars and production from Jardine, drums by Peter Tzaferis and mixing for the song "You Are My Weapon" by Corey Lowery (Seether, Saint Asonia). Recording sessions for the EP took place at Johnny K's Groovemaster Studios in Chicago, Jardine's Uplift Productions in Canada and beyond.

Upon Wings' "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel / God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" will be available as a free download through Christmas. The track will also be available for purchase and streaming via iTunes, Amazon Music, Spotify and other digital outlets soon. Soli Deo Gloria.

"Get ready for new Upon Wings music soon," Erickson added. "Happy holidays to you and yours."

DEF LEPPARD has released an official music video for its new Christmas single titled "We All Need Christmas". A delicate acoustic ballad, the track proves fireside-ready with its uplifting, hopeful spirit and sense of seasonal soul.

"We All Need Christmas" is featured on DEF LEPPARD's brand new greatest-hits collection titled "The Story So Far - The Best Of", which was released on November 30. It is 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 "We All Need Christmas", "Personal Jesus" and "Rock On (Remix)". 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".

As previously reported, DEF LEPPARD will be inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame next spring. The honor comes after the British rockers got the most votes in the Rock Hall's online fan poll.

One of the top-selling rock acts of of all time, DEF LEPPARD has been eligible for the Rock Hall since 2004.

he 34th annual Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame induction ceremony will be held March 29 at Brooklyn, New York's Barclays Center. HBO will broadcast a truncated version of the ceremony later in the year.

CANNIBAL CORPSE guitarist Patrick "Pat" O'Brien has been released from jail, less than a week after he was arrested on charges of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer and burglary of an occupied dwelling with assault. Deputies say he burglarized a house and charged at a deputy with a knife.

According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, O'Brien was released from Hillsborough County jail on Friday, December 14 at 9:01 p.m. after posting a $50,000 surety bond.

O'Brien allegedly broke into a home on December 10 and pushed a woman to the ground. He ran toward a responding deputy with a knife and was subdued with a stun gun.

O'Brien didn't know any of the residents, according to a Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office news release.

ess than half a mile from where O'Brien was arrested, a fire broke out at his home, sending flames billowing into the night sky from the roof. The exact cause of the blaze is unknown, but ammunition and "military-style flamethrowers" reportedly exploded inside the home during the fire.

The owner of the home where O'Brien was arrested wouldn't go on camera but told ABC Action News he thought the guitarist was hallucinating when he spoke to him about the "rapture" and claimed, "someone was after him." The homeowner added O'Brien seemed scared and at one point even hid in his closet.

At a first appearance hearing Tuesday morning (December 11), a Hillsborough County judge told the 53-year-old musician, clad in an anti-suicide vest with his hands and ankles chained together, that he would first have to pass a drug test before he would be allowed to post bail and leave jail.

CANNIBAL CORPSE announced last week that it would be part of the next North American leg of SLAYER's farewell tour.

Melodic death metal band, Lahmia, will release their second album, Resilience, on January 18th via Scarlet Records.

Resilience is the ability of an individual to face and overcome a traumatic event and in fact the whole album is an ambitious concept that finds its origins in the crisis of values of the present day, an album aims to describe the newfound "second life" of the band after the difficult years that followed the debut Into The Abyss, one of the death metal revelations of 2012.

From a musical point of view, Resilience picks up were its predecessor left off and shifts the bar in every possible way, mixing the most aggressive guitar riffs with incredible melodies and top notch musicianship. Variety has always been the band’s trademark and this new album makes no exception.

Resilience was produced by Giuseppe Orlando at OuterSound Studios in Rome, Italy, mastered by Mika Jussila and features a 11-minute long epic suite that is definitely not common in the genre.

Cover artwork by Gustavo Sazes (Arch Enemy, Machine Head, Morbid Angel, Cynic).

Tracklisting:

"Elegy For A Dying Sun"    
"Her Frantic Call"    
"Divide Et Impera"    
"The Frayed Lines Of Time"
"Void Of Humiliation"    
"The Age Of Treason"
"Limitless"    
"Existential Vastness"

British band, Ewigkeit, will release DISClose on February 23rd digitally and on March 23rd on CD, via the label Death To Music.

Ewigkeit is the ever-changing project of British multi-instrumentalist James Fogarty (In The Woods, Old Forest, Jaldaboath and others). Starting off as a black metal project in the mid 90s, the project has veered from symphonic black mMetal to industrial to 70's space rock and back again in the many years of it's on / off existence. The project has dealt with various themes over this time - whatever has been the current interest of it's creator.

DISClose is the 8th album; this has the greatest audio 'density' of all the releases, and sees the guitar settle somewhere around a baritone middle ground of early death doom and modern extreme metal topped with memorable riffs. The vocals are a mix of blackened metal and clean harmonies, not unlike those on the new In The Woods album (which was recorded simultaneous to this). The keyboards again add an ambience and space that is common to all Ewigkeit releases. DISClose is the strongest and most coherent album since 2005’s Conspiritus album (Earache).

The theme of this album is inspired by the growing movement of modern Ufology and the push toward official testament and disclosure of an alien presence visiting our skies: "Beyond the Black Majestic coven of 12 lie the secrets of flying saucery - the time to Disclose the truth of the Alien presence on Earth is upon us."

The first track, "Disclosure" serves as an introduction to the album, which is further explored musically and thematically throughout DISClose. But listen for yourself via the teaser below.

Cover artwork is designed exclusively for Death To Music productions by graphic artist Lenny Bridgeman. Album mastering was completed by Frederic Gervais of Studio Henosis.

DISClose is available to pre-order now from deathtomusic.com, and will be released digitally across all platforms to buy & stream on February 23rd, and on CD on March 23rd.

Tracklisting:

"1947"
"Disclosure"
"Oppenheimer's Lament"
"Guardians Of The High Frontier"
"Resonance"
"KRLLL"
"Moon Monolith"

Teaser:

(Photo - Jessica Tilley)

Dust Bolt have released a lyric video for the single "Bloody Rain". The track will be included on the band's forthcoming new album, Trapped In Chaos, out on January 18th via Napalm Records.

Lenny states: "'Bloody Rain' is a really special and outstanding song on the new album and in the history of Dust Bolt. It is by far the most melodic song vocal-wise, though it's also a really dark and heavy banger - especially towards the ending. The song was written by our guitarist Flo D.  I remember him calling me multiple times as he had this song he needed to show me immediately on a rainy and pale day. Mentally it was a dark and uncertain time for both of us, which probably made the song, what is is now. Uncomprehendingly, in some ways "grungy", heavy and as nihilistic as it can get."

Dust Bolt emerged in 2006 to encrust Germany and the rest of the world in hefty, Bay Area-influenced thrash metal featuring crossover influences and killer melodies. The four piece elevates its trademark sound to perfection on fourth album Trapped in Chaos: profound lyrics, dark melodies and pure hostility are the ultimate recipe for a thrashfest between retro and modern.

Trapped In Chaos can be pre-ordered here and will be available in the following formats:

-CD Jewelcase
-LP Gatefold Black
-LP Gatefold Blue (Napalm Mailorder exclusive)
-Digital

Tracklisting:

“The Fourth Strike”
“Dead Inside”
“The Bad Ad”
“Bloody Rain”
“Rhythm To My Madness”
“Shed My Skin”
“Killing Time”
“Trapped In Chaos”
“Another Day In Hell”

"Dead Inside" video:

Album announcement:

(Photo by: Niklas Niessner)

Exile To The Velveteen Lounge, the new release by vintage sleaze powerhouse trio, Babylon Shakes, is set for a February 1st release through HighVolMusic.

Exile To The Velveteen Lounge is the first full-length record from the band and contains 10 tracks of vintage rock. Video production for the album opener, "Making A Million", is set begin January 12th with the video being issued just around release day.

Tracklisting:

"Making A Million"
"Sunset Striptease"
"Sin Parade"
"No Pictures Please"
"Velveteen Libertine"
"Silver Tongue Devil"
"Hardtimes"
"Die Pretty"
"Star In Your Eyes"
"Motel Lights"

"Velveteen Libertine" video:

As previously reported, Babylon ShakesS recently added a fouth member in bassist David Elmore. The band is set to perform March 29th at Rocklanta 2019 in Atlanta, GA.

On December 15th, the Black Sabbath / Ozzy Osbourne tribute band Sweet Leaf performed live at On The Y in Sacramento, CA. Check out Capital Chaos TV footage of "War Pigs" and "Paranoid" below.

Sweet Leaf features One Machine guitarist Steve Smyth, who has previously worked with Forbidden, Nevermore, Vicious Rumors and Dragonlord.

One Machine recently released a lyric video for "New Motive Power" in 2017, the last single release from their album The Final Cull, released in September 2015 via Scarlet Records.

Steve Smyth: “We are very proud to release this excellent lyric video for 'New Motive Power', our last single release from The Final Cull, which we have been touring in support of since the release of the album! It’s a fan favorite, and we decided it must be seen as well as heard! Tommy Antonini did a great job capturing the essence of the song with plenty of underlying visuals to bring this beast to life!"

Chris Hawkins states: “'New Motive Power' is a reflection on our insatiable thirst for progress and the reduction of people to mere cogs in a much larger machine. This psychotic obsession with being better, faster stronger is fueled by the sacrifice of human life, figuratively and literally, and is best represented in modern times with our ravenous consumption and production of technology. Ultimately, following this path blindly  leads to our destruction or self-engineered obsolescence. Leading the way, we have those who benefit from this the most, and have the most to lose from it's failure. This song is written from the perspective of one of these authority figures, with a brief interjection from 'The Workers', but you can substitute the character with politicians, your boss, or perhaps the darker parts of your own pysche.”

Smyth continues: “'New Motive Power' was one of those songs on the album that was written in the studio, not just played live in the studio as all of the record was. I had quite a bit of the song already written, but working with the guys in the studio, we were able to breathe even more life into this song by playing together, and make it even heavier than I could have imagined! We hope you’ll enjoy the visual ride along with the song as much as we do!”

The Final Cull was tracked at Death Island Studios, with Marco Angioni and Tue Madsen helming. Recording lasted for nine days solid, as the band put in 15-18 hour days on this record.

The album art was illustrated by Gustavo Sazes (Gus G. Morbid Angel, Arch Enemy).

Tracklisting is as follows:

Digital Release:

“Forewarning”
“The Final Cull”
“Summoning Of The Soul”
“Screaming For Light”
“The Grand Design”
“New Motive Power”
“Ashes In The Sky”
“Born From This Hate”
“Welcome To The World”

Lyon, France-Gothic metal/industrial-rock artists Porn will release their fourth studio album The Darkest of Human Desires-Act II. BraveWords is hosting the exclusive premiere of new track “My Rotten Realm”.

“I wanted to create a song that match perfectly with Mr Strangler mindset. In this new album, act II of the trilogy, Mr Strangler is embracing his ‘trueself’, as a serial killer he is over-enjoying is art: murdering people. This song is very powerful, high tempo, as is cerebral activity: excitation, euphoria...  The lyrics are about Mr Strangler looking at many human decapitated heads he collects. Saying that he needs more. Considering every rotten heads as a subject of a rotten realm, his rotten realm. This songs features a sample of Gerard Shaeffer, an American Serial Killer, talking about a discussion he had in prison with another serial killer way more famous than him: Ted Bundy. Shaefer is saying in this sample that he is the best of all the serial killers.” - Mr Strangler Vocalist /Composer

In 2017, Porn released its third album The Ogre Inside - Act I, the first act of a trilogy based on the enigmatic character Mr Strangler. By embracing his true-self, Mr Strangler expresses his dark impulses without limitations and has no boundaries. With his crew, he commits murders and massacres. He also invites everyone to make a step forward and invites you to express your darkest desires and join his death cult.

For Mr Strangler and his team, the Ogre is released! Let the massacre begin! Let the darkest of human desires be: murder.

In this second act, you can hear some of the scariest serial killers and murderers: Richard Ramirez, Ed Kemper, Charles Manson, Richard Schaeffer, Jeffrey Dahmer.

The new album is the first collaboration between Porn and Tom Baker, who mastered many mythic albums: Antichrist Superstar by Marylin Manson, Downward Spiral by Nine Inch Nails, Psalm 69 by Ministry, Hellbilly Deluxe by Rob Zombie. The Darkest of Human Desires-Act II will be released February 22nd worldwide.

Tracklisting:

“Choose Your Last Words”
“Evil 6 Evil”
“Here For Love”
“Tonight, Forever Bound”
“Remorse For What?”
“My Rotten Realm”
“Eternally In Me”
“The Radiance Of All That Shines”
“Abstinent Killer”
“The Last Of A Million”

"King's X: The Oral History", the definitive companion to one of the most acclaimed hard rock acts in the business, will be published on February 19, 2019 via Jawbone Press.

Countless accolades have been bestowed upon KING'S X over the years, and, since their formation in 1980, they have grown to become one of the most universally admired in hard rock and heavy metal. But their story is one of many ups and downs, trials and tribulations, and periods of good and bad luck.

This authorized biography examines and explores all aspects of their history, both personally and professionally, and allows the band's three members — singer/ bassist Doug Pinnick, guitarist Ty Tabor and drummer Jerry Gaskill — to tell their full story for the first time. It also opens the floor to friends and collaborators, plus some of the many top rock names who are also fans of the band, including PEARL JAM's Jeff Ament, THE POLICE's Andy Summers, SMASHING PUMPKINS' Billy Corgan, SOUNDGARDEN's Kim Thayil, PANTERA's Rex Brown, MÖTLEY CRÜE's Mick Mars, and many more.

In addition, "King's X: The Oral History" explores the stories behind every single song the band have recorded over the years, while also detailing the creation of each of their twelve albums and offering insight into the influence of religion on their work. It also features memories of the band's tours with some of rock's biggest names — including AC/DC, PEARL JAM and MÖTLEY CRÜE — and the events that led to their show-stopping performance at the mammoth Woodstock '94 festival. Packed full of rare and never-before-seen photographs from throughout their career, and with a foreword by Scott Ian of ANTHRAX, this is the definitive companion to the band and their music.

b>Greg Prato is a journalist from Long Island, New York, whose writing has appeared in such renowned publications as Rolling Stone, Classic Rock and Vintage Guitar. He is also the author of several popular books, including "Shredders! The Oral History Of Speed Guitar (And More)", "Grunge Is Dead: The Oral History Of Seattle Rock Music" and "A Devil On One Shoulder And An Angel On The Other: The Story Of Shannon Hoon And Blind Melon".

Admired and respected by musicians and music fans alike, KING'S X is one of the most acclaimed hard rock bands in the business. Since 1988, they have issued twelve studio albums, including such classics as "Gretchen Goes To Nebraska", "Faith Hope Love" and "Dogman", and achieved MTV/radio hits, including "Over My Head", "It's Love" and "Black Flag". They remain one of rock's finest live acts.

Slash performed at "Celebrating Willie Basse: A Night Of Music & Stories" on December 14 at Boardner's in Hollywood, California.

The GUNS N' ROSES guitarist played three songs at the invite-only event, including covers of THE BEATLES' "Come Together" and LED ZEPPELIN's "Whole Lotta Love".

Basse died in October after a long battle with cancer. He was 62 years old.

Basse is best known for his role as bassist/frontman for legendary metalheads BLACK SHEEP, who were mainstays on the Los Angeles Sunset Strip during the '80s metal explosion. The band has boasted members that included Slash, Paul Gilbert (MR. BIG), James Kottak (SCORPIONS, KINGDOM COME), Randy Castillo (OZZY OSBOURNE, MÖTLEY CRÜE), Kurt James and Mitch Perry.

he Texan-born musician had lived in the greater Los Angeles since the mid-'70s.

In a post on Instagram shortly after Basse's death, Slash wrote: "RIP to my good friend #WillieBasse I/we will miss you buddy"

Italian progressive metal band LAST UNION has released a lyric video for the song "A Place In Heaven". The track, which features a guest appearance by DREAM THEATER singer James LaBrie, is taken from the group's debut album, "Twelve", which will be released on December 21 via ROAR! Rock Of Angels Records.

"Twelve", which also features Mike LePond (SYMPHONY X) on bass, Uli Kusch (HELLOWEEN, MASTERPLAN) on drums, was mixed and mastered by Jens Bogren, best known for his work with ARCH ENEMY, SYMPHONY X, DEVIN TOWNSEND, ANGRA and OPETH, to name a few. The cover artwork was created by Thomas Ewerhard (AVANTASIA, RAGE, THRESHOLD).

The quiet city of Tolentino in the Marche region of Central Italy not only boasts a rich historical background, it is also the place progressive metal band LAST UNION calls home. Founded by vocalist Elisa Scarpeccio, guitarist Cristiano Tiberi and keyboardist Claudio Feliziani in 2007, the band — originally known as BLAZING ICE — embarked on their journey in the pursuit of sharing their thoughts and feelings about life, and ultimately their art, with the world. With the assistance of professional session bassists and drummers, the trio established themselves on the Italian scene with a string of shows that helped them evolve and refine their craft. Over the course of 20 shows, LAST UNION presented songs that would eventually make the final cut for their debut album.

Strong and positive reactions to their music spurred Scarpeccio and Tiberi on to take the first of many bold steps. The first was to reach out to Kusch, who, after hearing the music, expressed interest in joining the band as a full member rather than just a touring drummer. A similar scenario played out with LePond and LAST UNION was officially born. The icing on the cake, however, was getting LaBrie to sing on three tracks.

rack listing:

01. Most Beautiful Day

02. President Evil (feat. James LaBrie)

03. Hardest Way

04. Purple Angels

05. The Best Of Magic

06. Taken (feat. James LaBrie) (radio edit)

07. 18 Euphoria

08. A Place In Heaven (feat. James LaBrie)

09. Ghostwriter

10. Limousine

11. Back In The Shadow

12. Taken (feat. James LaBrie)

13. President Evil (feat. James LaBrie) (video version)

Veteran Japanese metallers ANTHEM have signed with Nuclear Blast Records for the European territory. The first release under the deal will be a greatest-hits album, featuring re-recordings of the band's most popular songs with English lyrics. Mixing and mastering the disc was renowned Swedish producer and engineer Jens Bogren, known for his work with a multitude of big-name artists.

The first single from the album, "Black Empire", can be heard below. Singer Yukio Morikawa comments: "We are very pleased to release the first single 'Black Empire' from the greatest-hits album 'Nucleus'. The original version featured a former vocalist, Mr. Eizo Sakamoto, so my version is finally revealed to the fans and with English lyrics! The new 'Black Empire' has ANTHEM's passion and soul very much. Please give it a listen."

A remarkable point worth noting about this release is that all of the songs except "Venom Strike" were written after their reunion in 2001 — proving that ANTHEM has never needed to rely solely on its past glories.

This compilation of re-recorded greatest hits, "Nucleus", includes a variety of ANTHEM's classics, perfectly demonstrating the band's musical quality and proving that they can be ranked as a top-notch band even in the international market.

b>Naoto Shibata (bass): "Our re-recorded greatest hits album with English lyrics, 'Nucleus', will be released internationally on March 29th, 2019. The title represents the fact that this work is ANTHEM's nucleus. I am proud that we can internationally release this album right before our 35th anniversary with this current great lineup, and I am also honored from the bottom of my heart that we can present this to our fans. ANTHEM will keep doing our best to move forward, always heading towards the future. I hope you will all enjoy 'Nucleus'."

Akio Shimizu (guitar): "Finally our re-recorded greatest hits album with English lyrics, 'Nucleus', is set to be released internationally! I tackled these recordings head on, putting all of my pride into it. Those 13 songs were not easy at all; however, I believe they’ve fully captured the sound and the expression of today's ANTHEM while being true to the originals at the same time. I am really happy that our music is now flying into the internatinal market, hoping for new possibilities. Please give it a listen and feel all of the details of the album with the fresh mixing by Jens Bogren."

Yukio Morikawa (vocals): "Four years have already passed since I rejoined ANTHEM. I can say that my musical activities have been very busy and fulfilling, containing two full-length albums, some video works and a lot of live concerts. And I must say, I am so excited that in 2019, at last ANTHEM will internationally release an album, the re-recorded greatest hits. Singing all the songs in English was not at all easy for me, but I hope that this album will show the world that Japan has a band like us who loves metal so much. I hope you enjoy 'Nucleus'."

Isama Tamaru (drums): "I am glad and excited that we can internationally release our re-recorded greatest hits album, 'Nucleus', at this point in time, and we have the opportunity to present ANTHEM's current music and our way of living not only to Japan but also to the rest of the world. I would like you to listen carefully to the sound by Jens Bogren, who we worked with for the first time. With the current lineup, we have been going through a lot of changes by tackling a lot of new things, which has made the bond between the members and the crew much stronger. I would like to say thank you to all the fans who have been supporting us."

STONE TEMPLE PILOTS played a rare acoustic concert last night (Friday, December 14) at the Norwood Space Center in Norwood, Massachusetts. Fan-filmed video footage of the show can be seen below (courtesy of YouTube users "jimmy shine" and "shawnbrennan1").

All proceeds from the evening benefited Music Drives Us, a charity founded by Ernie Boch, Jr. 13 years ago.

Money raised by Music Drives Us is earmarked for music and art education in the six New England states.

Boch told Business Jet Traveler about his decision to launch Music Drives Us: "Studies show that if kids take music when they’re young, it makes them more communicative, less violent, better at math, better at learning a second language, and socially more astute. Music can literally rewire the brain. Because of all the budget cuts and all the economic stress on towns, school systems have suffered. The first thing that goes is the music program, so I created a foundation to try and keep music in the schools."

b>STP's self-titled seventh studio effort was released in March and is the band's first with new singer Jeff Gutt.

Gutt made his live debut with the band in November 2017 in Los Angeles.

Asked how much freedom he had during the songwriting process for STONE TEMPLE PILOTS' new album, Jeff told WGRD: "It was full freedom, but I felt the responsibility of making sure it was an STP record at the end of the day. 'Cause my whole thing was helping them continue their journey. And I feel like it was less about me; it was more about honoring [late STONE TEMPLE PILOTS singer] Scott [Weiland] and honoring [late STONE TEMPLE PILOTS and LINKIN PARK singer] Chester [Bennington] and everyone that has ever been involved in STP and making sure that it just kept going the way it should."

The official 50th anniversary book, Led Zeppelin By Led Zeppelin, is available now in book stores worldwide and online. Published by Reel Art Press. Watch a new video trailer below, and for select stockists, head here.

Led Zeppelin By Led Zeppelin is the first and only official illustrated book to be produced in collaboration with the members of the band. Celebrating 50 years since their formation, it covers the group’s unparalleled musical career and features photographs of Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones and John Bonham on and offstage, in candid moments and in the recording studio.

This definitive 400-page volume includes previously unpublished photos, artwork from the Led Zeppelin archives and contributions from photographers around the world.

German heavy metal band, Bloody Times, have released a video trailer for their new album, On A Mission, out on January 11th. The album features guests Ross The Boss (ex-Manowar), and former Iced Earth members John Greely and Raphael Saini.

The album was mixed and mastered by OGrego (Winter’s Dawn, Necrorgasm, Emerald). Album artwork by Stan-W Decker (Ross The Boss, Primal Fear, Masterplan). Pre-order here.

Tracklisting:

"Alliance"
"Fort Sumter"
"Die In A Hole"
"Curse Of Genevieve" (reworked)
"Future Secret"
"Operation Focus"
"The Warning (Until Blood Boils Pt.1)"
"The Revenge (Until Blood Boils Pt.2)"
"Day Of Collapse"

"Alliance" trailer:

Lineup:

Ross Friedman - Rhythm and solo guitar (Ex-Manowar, Ross The Boss Band)
John Greely - Lead and backing Vocals (Ex-Iced Earth, Seventh Servant)
Raphael Saini - Drums (Ex-Iced Earth)
Marco Cossu - Rhythm and solo guitar (Inexhibit)
Rainer Pfundstein - Rhythm and solo guitar (Big Mama)
Balasz Fleischhauer - Rhythm and solo guitar
Simon Pfundstein - Bass and backing vocals

In 2014 the name “Bloody Times” was first used for a collection of recorded riffs and demos by bassist Simon Pfundstein, who is therefore known as the founder of Bloody Times. Unlike a classic band formation, Bloody Times slowly evolved out of a solo project. What was created as a hobby led to the production of the first album two years later. The Fire Of Immortality was released as debut album in November 2016. On this album, Simon was supported by former Iced Earth drummer Raphael Saini. All other instruments were recorded by Simon.

In the following year, two of the existing songs were re-recorded with John Greely (Seventh Servant). Since the release he has been the main singer of Bloody Times. John is known for his performance on the album Night Of The Stormrider, which he recorded together with Iced Earth.

Work on a second album began in late 2017 with John on vocals and Simon on bass. While Raphael is also on drums in this production, different guests were on guitar. Five different guitarists contributed their skills and were also partly involved in the songwriting process, which was otherwise mainly done by bassist Simon. The passion for music and metal unites all the members and guests of the project.

A special guest and supporter of the resulting album On A Mission is Ross Friedman (Ross The Boss), who founded the heavy metal band Manowar together with Joey DeMaio in 1980. Since his retirement from Manowar, Ross has been working on his own albums and projects, but his fans adore him most of all for his contribution to the “immortal” albums from Battle Hymns to Kings Of Metal.

Inspired by the mentioned metal giants and other heavy metal classics, a fantastic album has been created. It strongly reminds of “old school metal” and makes you want to hear more impressive songs, which Bloody Times will surely also release in the future.

Devin Townsend Project members Ryan Van Poederooyen (drums) and Brian "Beav" Waddell (guitars), Threat Signal's Jon Howard (vocals), and former Strapping Young Lad members Byron Stroud (bass) and Jed Simon (guitars) recently banded together to form Imonolith. They have checked in with the following update:

"Imonolith would like to introduce and welcome a new guitar player to the band - Kai Huppunen (ex-Methods Of Mayhem, ex-Noise Therapy). Kai officially joined Imonolith this past October, just before shooting our debut video, 'Hollow'. He is an incredible guitar player and an awesome performer. He has a unique writing style with great ideas that have already added to Imonolith’s sound. All of us in Imonolith are very excited to have Kai as an official member of the band. Welcome Kai aboard!

Jed Simon and Imonolith have mutually parted ways. Jed is, and will always be a brother to us. We wish him all the very best with his future musical endeavours.

'Hollow', our debut single, will be available world-wide for download and streaming on January 18th. A music video for 'Hollow' will be released the same day.

We’re excited to finally launch this band world-wide. Stay posted for more details to be released soon."

Imonolith's debut single, "Hollow", is now available for pre-order via iTunes and Google Play. Check out the teaser below.

The band recently issued the following update:

"You guys have heard some music from us but we thought we’d give you a little insight into names of specific songs we’ve recorded and songs we’re working on. These are working titles and some titles are definitely staying. Lots of cool things are in the works including a potential live show or two in the near future. Stay posted for a live feed soon among other things!

Thanks as always for you’re awesome support. We’re excited to get our music out to you all ASAP!"

Photo by Square Egg Visions

Bulgarian “dark metal” band Velian will release their debut full-length album, titled Godless, on January 19th, 2019. Velian's style is a mix of power and melodic death metal with a touch of gothic darkness. Ten original compositions are included in the release and they all refer to one general concept.

Recordings were made at the band’s own studio and the audio production (mixing and mastering) is done by Constantine Gentchev (Phyx) from MIG7 Studio.

The cover art was created by Mirko Stanchev (Illogical Conversions):

Tracklisting:

“Silent Assassin”
“Fireflies”
“Broken”
“Godless”
“The Darkness Within”
“Maiden Of Stone”
“Spirits”
“Burning Halo”
“Building Cages”
“In The Name Of Power”

“Godless”:

French symphonic death metal titans Gorgon have just released their first single Of Divinity and Flesh today, off of their forthcoming much-celebrated album Elegy scheduled for a release on January 18th.

The mastermind behind Gorgon, Paul Thureau, gives some clues about Elegy album due to be released on Dusktone in January:

"The amount of work accomplished for this record was just insane. We wanted to completely change our direction and sound, and so we did. Compared to our previous works, we totally embraced the oriental / arabic influences we already were using in our music, but this time we dared to push it in a way we never did before. We decided to take risks - as we wanted reach beyond the traditional epic/symphonic metal standards; "ELEGY" aims an emotional and touching experience, and that's something one would not expect from an extreme death / black metal record."

Elegy could be pre-ordered from today in four different formats:
-Collector Edition rigid Boxset (limited to 100 copies worldwide), containing:
Deluxe Edition Digibook CD, Exclusive A2 Flag, Logo Patch, x2
Collector Cards, White/Red guitar pick, Numbered Certificate of
Authenticity
-Deluxe Digibook CD, with full size 20-pages booklet, limited to 500 copies.
-Jewelcase CD, with full size 20-pages booklet, limited to 300 copies.
-Digital Download (high-quality download includes unlimited streaming)

“Of Divinity And Flesh” video:

Bay Area death-thrashers Laceration has joined forces with Unspeakable Axe Records for the early 2019 release of Remnants.

Emerging out of the Northern Bay Area of California in 2006, Laceration is an old-school style death/thrash band dedicated to crushing skulls and splitting ears. The band recently returned from a five-year hiatus with a new line up and has begun working on new material for their long-awaited debut full-length album.

Remnants compiles Laceration's earliest recordings; an EP, a demo and tracks from the band's 2013 split with Tinnitus. Included are 2009's Consuming Reality and the buzzed-about Realms of the Unconscious EP, which drew comparisons to the likes of Demolition Hammer.

Fans can expect ten tracks of violent death/thrash with ragged glass-gargling vocals and death metal-inspired riffs. No gimmicks! This is true old-school metal that prioritizes sheer heaviness over all else.

Tracklisting:

“Realms Of The Unconscious”
“Self Deprivation”
“Shadows Of Existence”
“Exhausted In Form”
“Bred To Consume”
“Hobo With A Shotgun”
“Critical Biopsy”
“Arise Within”
“Taphephobia”
“Shadows Of Existence”h

“Exhausted In Form”:

Chicago, Illinois-based death metal act Warforged has announced their signing to extreme metal label The Artisan Era. The group will be working with the label to release their first full-length album in the spring of 2019. After garnering widespread acclaim with the release of their 2014 EP, Essence Of The Land, the group has worked hard the last few years to craft a fitting follow up to that highly praised effort.

The Artisan Era comments on the signing, "Warforged is a band that puts every ounce of thought and passion into every aspect of what they do. They are pushing lots of artistic boundaries in the most positive ways with their new material and it's phenomenal. We are proud to have them on our team and we can't wait to see what the future has in store for the band."

Warforged band statement on signing to The Artisan Era

"We are very happy to announce that Warforged will be working with The Artisan Era for the release of our debut full-length record: I: Voice. The 9 track, 73-minute concept album continues seamlessly out of our 2014 release, Essence Of The Land, and serves as part 1 of an ongoing concept centered around interwoven dreams and memory. The music is an elaboration on the vibes and textures from EOTL - pushing for a far wider dynamic and emotional range. Malcolm & Mike are doing great work with TAE and we really look forward to working with them as well as seeing y’all out on the road next year!"

Warforged is:

Adrian Perez - Vocals, Keys/Piano (ex-Enfold Darkness)
Jace Kiburz - Guitar (Vukari)
Max Damske - Guitar (Screams of Winter)
Alex Damske - Bass (Screams of Winter)
Jason Nitts - Drums (Roman Ring)

Fan-filmed video footage of former GUNS N' ROSES drummer Steven Adler performing the band's classic song "Sweet Child O' Mine" last night (Friday, December 14) at the Diesel in Chesterfield, Michigan can be seen below (courtesy of Howie Herula).

Adler's current solo band includes Ariel Kamin, the singer of Argentinian GN'R tribute band SON OF A GUN. Kamin replaced Constantine Maroulis of "American Idol" and "Rock Of Ages" fame, who was the vocalist for ADLER'S APPETITE for a dozen or so dates this past May, including an Australian tour.

In addition to Adler and Kamin, the latest version of ADLER'S APPETITE features guitarist Michael Thomas and bassist Tanya O Callaghan.

Steven previously played with Ariel when the drummer joined SON OF GUN on stage in November 2016 in Buenos Aires, Argentina to perform several GN'R classics, including "You Could Be Mine" and "Welcome To The Jungle".

b>ADLER'S APPETITE FEATURING CONSTANTINE MAROULIS celebrated the 30th anniversary of GN'R's classic debut album by performing "Appetite For Destruction" in its entirety on the aforementioned Australian tour.

Back in April, when Constantine was first announced as the new frontman of ADLER'S APPETITE, Steven said: "GUNS N' ROSES are the biggest rock band in the fuckin' world now, and since the guys don't want me to play with them and I love these songs and I'm so proud of them ... now I finally have a singer who can compete with the young Axl Rose."


'Sweet Child Of Mine' from last night. Ari totally nails the vocals. He's better than Axl when Axl was good. What a great find for this band !!Posted by Howie Herula on Saturday, December 15, 2018


Thank you Diesel Concerts Detroit for a great show!!! You guys ROCK!!!#tourlife #naturalhighPosted by Steven Adler on Saturday, December 15, 2018


Steven Adler of Guns N' Roses live TONIGHT at Diesel Concerts Detroit w/sg Redemption Road, Kougaran, HeadrusH DetroiT,...Posted by Diesel Concerts Detroit on Friday, December 14, 2018

Jimmy Kay and Alan Dixon from Canada's The Metal Voice recently spoke to former Gary Moore, Ozzy Osbourne , Rainbow bassist Bob Daisley about his new tribute album to guitarist Gary Moore, Moore Blues for Gary - A Tribute To Gary Moore, which was released on October 26th via earMusic. Check out the interview below.

Daisley talks about Gary Moore's career, the participants on the Gary Moore tribute album, Moore' preference of Ozzy guitarists, and when Moore turned down Ozzy as his frist choice for  guitarist when Ozzy got fired from Black Sabbath.

On Ozzy wanting Gary Moore as his guitarist prior to Randy Rhoads:

"Ozzy never wanted to replace Randy Rhoads with Gary Moore; Gary Moore was Ozzy's first choice. When Ozzy was in Los Angeles after he got fired from Black Sabbath and he was thinking of putting a band together, his first choice was Gary Moore. Gary didn't want to work with Ozzy because of Ozzy's reputation with drugs and booze, being unreliable and unprofessional. Gary said 'I will help you find a guitarist or if you find a guitarist that you want my opinion on I will help you that way.'"

On which Ozzy guitarist Gary Moore preferred:

"One thing I would like to add is that Gary rated Jake E Lee very high. I think Jake E Lee is one of the best guitarists Ozzy ever had." 

On his and Lee Kerslake's induction into The Hall of Heavy Metal History Gala on January 23rd, 2019 for their contributions to Ozzy's Blizzard of Ozz and  Diary of a Madman:

"That is great it really puts the icing on the cake. I spoke to Lee last week about it and he is over the moon because Lee is not having a good time at the moment. He has some bad health issues and we don't know how much longer Lee is going to be around. He can go in a few months, we don;t know. So for this to happen for Lee it means a lot for him and it means a lot for me. It's something that's really really nice to have. "

 

 

 

Tracklisting:

 

 

"That’s Why I Play The Blues"

 

 

Vocals - Jon C. Butler; Guitars - Tim Gaze; Bass Guitar - Bob Daisley; Drums - Rob Grosser; Keyboards - Clayton Doley

 

 

"The Blues Just Got Sadder"

 

 

Vocals - Joe Lynn Turner; Lead Guitar - Steve Lukather; Rhythm Guitar And Slide Guitar – Tim Gaze; Bass Guitar - Bob Daisley; Drums - Rob Grosser; Keyboards - Clayton Doley

 

 

"Empty Rooms"

 

 

Lead Vocal, Keyboards – Neil Carter; Bass Guitar, Harmonica, Backing Vocals – Bob Daisley; Drums - Rob Grosser; Guitars - Illya Szwec; Backing Vocals - Rosanna Daisley

 

 

"Still Got The Blues (For You)"

 

 

Vocals - Danny Bowes; Guitars - John Sykes; Keyboards - Don Airey; Bass Guitar - Bob Daisley; Drums - Rob Grosser

 

 

"Texas Strut"

 

 

Vocals - Brush Shiels; Bass Guitar - Bob Daisley; Guitars - Tim Gaze; Drums - Rob Grosser

 

 

"Nothing’s The Same"

 

 

Vocals - Glenn Hughes; Fretless Acoustic Bass – Bob Daisley; Cello - Ana Lenchantin; Guitars - Luis Maldonado

 

 

"The Loner"

 

 

Guitars - Doug Aldrich; Drums - Eric Singer; Bass Guitar - Bob Daisley; Keyboards - Don Airey

 

 

"Torn Inside"

 

 

Vocals, Lead Guitar – Stan Webb; Bass Guitar, Riff Guitar – Bob Daisley; Drums - Darrin Mooney; Keyboards - Lachlan Doley

 

 

"Don’t Believe A Word"

 

 

Vocals, Lead Guitar – Damon Johnson; Bass Guitar - Bob Daisley; Drums - Rob Grosser; Rhythm Guitar - Illya Szwec

 

 

"Story Of The Blues"

 

 

Lead Vocal - Jon C. Butler; Bass Guitar, Riff Guitar, Backing Vocals – Bob Daisley; Lead And Rhythm Guitar – Tim Gaze; Drums - Rob Grosser; Keyboards - Lachlan Doley; Backing Vocals - Rosanna Daisley

 

 

"This One’s For You"

 

 

Vocals - Gus Moore; Lead Guitar - Jack Moore; Bass Guitar - Bob Daisley; Drums - Rob Grosser; Rhythm Guitar - Illya Szwec

 

 

"Power Of The Blues"

 

 

Vocals - Joe Lynn Turner; Lead Guitar - Jeff Watson; Bass Guitar, Riff Guitar – Bob Daisley; Drums - Darrin Mooney; Rhythm Guitar - Illya Szwec

 

 

"Parisienne Walkways"

 

 

Guitars - Steve Morse; Vocals - Ricky Warwick; Bass Guitar - Bob Daisley; Drums - Rob Grosser; Keyboards - Clayton Doley

 

 

"Parisienne Walkways":

 

 

 

 

"Still Got The Blues (For You)":

 

 

 

Death metal masters, Deserted Fear, will release their new album, Drowned By Humanity, on February 8th via Century Media Records. A video for the track "Welcome To Reality" can be found below.

Pre-order Drowned By Humanity here.

Available formats:

- Tranparent blue vinyl – limited to 100 copies worldwide, only available at CMDistro EU
- Clear vinyl – limited to 200 copies worldwide
- Transparent red – limited to 300 hand-numbered copies worldwide, only available at the band’s store and on tour
- Transparent green – limited to 100 hand-numbered copies worldwide, only available at the band’s store and on tour
- Black vinyl - unlimited
- Digital album
- Ltd. CD Digipak

The Ltd. CD Digipak includes the brand new track “Die In Vain” and a re-recorded version of “Tear Of My Throne” as bonus tracks.

In just a decade, Deserted Fear have grown out of death metal's underground in a rapid tempo. Today they vividly teach the meaning of fear to their international fellows. Not only that their last work, Dead Shores Rising, climbed into the Top 50 of Germany's album charts, they even played their distinct groove into the hearts and ears of thousands with a steady and overwhelming live presence in Europe and on countless festivals. Not to forget the impressive list of club shows: Wherever they made trouble, they always came off as winners of the night.

On February 8th, their fourth studio album, Drowned By Humanity, will hit the streets. For the first time Deserted Fear hoist the sails off to emotions, establishing a forcing contrast to their gigantic groove grenades. Deserted Fear create spaces that make your mind exploring itself. And that's also the lyrical content of Drowned By Humanity: Question society. Environment, downfall and departure. In a forthright storm of blasphemy Deserted Fear remind nature protection and exhort the carelessness of people. The young and wild latitude is still on fire, while their grown-up earnestness alter the course.

This time none other than the Swedish producer Henrik Udd took them by the hand. He paid his dues in world famous Studio Fredman that stands out for inventing the Swedish death metal sound with bands like In Flames, At The Gates, Soilwork and Arch Enemy.

Feeling the power and endless energy to glide into new worlds that evolve out of fascinating creativity. Drowned By Humanity is such a bloodcurdling refreshment.

Drowned By Humanity tracklisting:

"Intro"
"All Will Fall"
"An Everlasting Dawn"                   
"The Final Chapter"
"Reflect The Storm"
"Across The Open Sea"
"Welcome To Reality"
"Stench Of Misery"
"A Breathing Soul"
"Sins From The Past"
"Scars Of Wisdom"
"Die In Vain" (bonus track)
"Tear Of My Throne" (re-recorded)

"Welcome To Reality" video:

Deserted Fear have announced a string of spring tour dates in support of their upcoming Drowned By Humanity album. Dates are listed below.

March
14 - Hamburg, Germany - Knust
15 - Berlin, Germany - Musik & Frieden
16 - Dresden, Germany - Beatpol
19 - Hannover, Germany - Lux
21 - Köln, Germany - Club Volta
22 - Wiesbaden, Germany - Kesselhaus
23 - München, Germany - Backstage
26 - Luzern, Switzerland - Schür EG
28 - Leipzig, Germany - Naumanns
30 - Wien, Austria - Arena

In addition, Deserted Fear will play two shows on the release weekend to celebrate Drowned By Humanity:

February
8 - Essen, Germany - Turock
9 - Jena, Germany - F-Haus

Lineup:

Manuel Glatter - guitar, vocals
Fabian Hildebrandt - guitar, bass
Simon Mengs - drums

(Photo - Manuel Glatter)

Connecticut metal band, Currents, have released a video for "Foever Marked", featured on the band's new EP, I Let The Devil In, out now via their label SharpTone Records.  Watch the clip below, and get the EP here.

“”Forever Marked” is a song about the separation and degradation of society through human error & conflict. We’ve touched on this subject before, but we really wanted to capture violence and the feelings of aggression & urgency to accompany the message.” - Brian Wille

“Forever Marked” is one of 5 new songs that have been in the works for several years and are finally seeing fruition for a record that further demonstrates the band’s intensity and ability to craft incredible and dynamic music that’s both highly skilled and accessible.

“We chose to do an EP so that we could take the liberty of stretching our sound out in a condensed fashion. We tried to make every song as different from one another as possible, while still maintaining one core vibe. These songs are meant to test our strengths and our limits, and we are very excited to hear all of your feedback; as it will potentially shape future music to come.” - Brian Wille

The new record was produced by Ryan Leitru of the band For Today and follows the band’s acclaimed 2017 album, The Place I Feel Safest.

Tracklisting:

“Into Despair”
“My Disguise”
“Feel The Same”
“The Rope”
“Forever Marked”
“Into Despair” (Instrumental)
“My Disguise” (Instrumental)
“Feel The Same” (Instrumental)
“The Rope” (Instrumental)
“Forever Marked” (Instrumental)

“Into Despair” video:

New Orleans four-piece Cane Hill will release a brand new record titled Kill the Sun via Rise Records on January 18, 2019.

The band has just shared the new video for the trippy track "Acid Rain."

"We spent the summer working on new Cane Hill music," the band said. "We've embraced the weirder and mellower side of what we do, as it's something we think is important to our band. With that in mind, we've been in the studio with the incredibly talented Kris Crummett, working on music that embellishes those elements. It's six songs of dark, twisted, and semi-acoustic beauty. We're incredibly proud of it and can't wait for you to hear it."

The band continued, “We wanted to embrace some leftover emotions we've been dealing with since getting our shit together while exploring our own musical limitations. We made this semi-acoustic record because we needed to for ourselves — and because honestly, why the fuck not?"

Cane Hill will hit the road again this winter supporting Sevendust.

Tracklisting:

“86d – No Escort”
“Empty”
“Save Me”
“Kill The Sun”
“Acid Rain”
“Smoking Man”

“Acid Rain” video:

Dates with Sevendust:

February
1 — Houston, TX — Scout Bar
2 — New Orleans, LA — Southport Music Hall
4 — Ft. Lauderdale, FL — Revolution
5 — St. Petersburg, FL — Jannus Live
6 — Greenville, SC — The Firmament
8 — Greensboro, NC — Blind Tiger
9 — Norfolk, VA — The NorVa
10 — Baltimore, MD — Rams Head Live
13 — Huntington, NY — The Paramount
14 — Boston, MA — House of Blues
15 — Providence, RI — The Strand
16 — Sayreville, NJ — Starland Ballroom
18 — New Haven, CT — Toad's Place
19 — Poughkeepsie, NY — The Chance
20 — Buffalo, NY — Rapids
22 — Flint, MI — Machine Shop
25 — Columbus, OH — Newport Music Hall
26 — Chicago, IL — House of Blues
27 — Columbia, MO — The Blue Note

March
1 – Wichita, KS – The Cotillion
2 – Oklahoma City, OK – Diamond Ballroom
3 – San Antonio, TX – Vibes Event Center

Swiss hard rock band King Zebra - featuring Eric St. Michaels (ex-China) on vocals - have released a new digital single and music video for the song “Like A Hurricane”, taken from their forthcoming EP.

The track was recorded & mixed by V.O. Pulver (Gurd, Poltergeist) at Little Creek Studio and mastered by Dan Suter (Krokus, Shakra, Eluveitie) at Echochamber.

King Zebra is:

Eric St. Michaels – Lead Vocals (ex-China)
Roman Lauer – Lead Guitars, Vocals
Jerry Napitupulu – Rhythm Guitars, Vocals
Michael Mutter – Bass, Vocals
Benjamin Grimm – Drums

Hiss From The Moat - the transcontinental black/death metal band founded by acclaimed drummer James Payne (Vital Remains, Hour Of Penance) - have unveiled a lyric video for the title track of their sophomore album, The Harrier, due out via M-Theory Audio on February 22nd. The clip can be seen below.

The song can also be streamed on Spotify, Apple Music and other digital platforms. In addition, the M-Theory webshop has launched the pre-order for The Harrier, which is available on CD and limited-edition moat-black vinyl (200 copies). Digital pre-orders via Bandcamp include an instant download of the title track.

“The song, ‘The Harrier,’ represents the identity of the album both for the instrumental part and the lyrics. The instrumental part is composed by many dynamic parts that create crescendos that then explode into more opened and epic parts, which is also how we composed the album itself -- powerful, but not only fast,” explains drummer James Payne. “The lyrics, instead, are composed from extracts of sacred and political texts (as it's indicated from the inscription in brackets) that, isolated and used in a more direct way, express and show how violent and brutal these books are, and sums up a good part of what the album itself talks about.

"The video is composed from the lyrics that are supported from some illustrations that represent what the lyrics are saying. We chose to do this as a reference to how the illustrations were used in the past, to explain to whoever couldn't read, what was written in the sacred texts. We wanted to do the same thing here since, nowadays, almost everybody can read, but everyone have their own interpretation of whatever is written, instead, since we have a specific and clear message to deliver, we've used the images to kind of have the same role that they had in the past -- to explain to whoever gets our message, the meaning of it, to avoid misinterpretations.”

The Harrier - which features cover artwork by Stefano Bonora - was recorded, mixed and mastered at Milan's SPVN Studio with Stefano Orkid Santi, who produced the latest Cripple Bastards album and previously worked as live engineer for bands such as Origin, Suffocation and Cattle Decapitation.

The US-based Payne formed Hiss From The Moat with two Italian friends - bassist/vocalist Carlo Cremascoli and guitarist Giacomo Poli - when he was just 18 years old. In 2009, the group self-released their debut EP, The Carved Flesh Message, which they supported by performing alongside the likes of Psycroptic, Skeletonwitch and The Black Dahlia Murder.

Four years later, Hiss From The Moat released their debut full-length, Misanthropy, via Lacerated Enemy/Nuclear Blast. The band's intense use of both extremes of death and black metal produced an album that stood alongside the delivery of acts such as Behemoth, Belphegor and Rotting Christ.

Following the release of the album, Hiss From The Moat embarked on an extensive tour across Russia, Europe and Asia, delivering aggressive and visually engaging performances backed by the blackened intensity of the band's new material. During this period, Payne left the legendary death metal act Vital Remains - a group he joined following a two-year stint with Italian death metal powerhouse Hour Of Penance - to focus full-time on Hiss From The Moat, and the band extended from a three-piece to a quartet with the addition of Max Cirelli (guitar/vocals).

Over the past two years, the band has toured extensively worldwide while working between the US and Italy to write The Harrier. Now, Hiss From The Moat aim to unleash another sonic onslaught that captures the band's range of death and black metal inspiration while creating a unique and intense presence in the world of extreme music.

Pre-order Hiss From The Moat’s The Harrier on CD or limited-edition vinyl, here.

Hiss From The Moat are:

Massimilano Cirelli - Guitar/Vocals
James Payne - Drums
Carlo Cremascoli - Bass/Vocals
Giacomo Poli - Guitar