Antihero Magazine's Matt Mills conducted an interview with frontman Jeff Becerra of legendary extreme metal innovators POSSESSED after the band's performance at this year's Bloodstock Open Air festival, which was held August 9-12 at Catton Hall, Walton-On-Trent, West Midlands, United Kingdom. You can listen to the full interview below. A few excerpts follow (transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET).

On the never-ending debate on who can lay claim to being the first "true" death metal band: DEATH or POSSESSED:

Jeff: "Here's the story: Between [pre-DEATH outfit] MANTAS and the first DEATH album [1987's 'Scream Bloody Gore'], [DEATH leader] Chuck [Schuldiner] moved out to our fan club president's house to be around us. He's quoted in countless magazines that POSSESSED is his primary influence. His album came out two years after 'Seven Churches', which was written in '82/'83. Chuck was a very dear friend of mine. We used to sit and talk, we were the best of friends. And, so he was heavily influenced by POSSESSED. He was proud of that. He's quoted on that many times. In fact, people started calling DEATH 'POSSESSED clones' so much that he distanced himself a little bit and started saying 'I don't even play death metal. I play progressive metal.' The funny thing is, ironically enough, if Chuck were alive today, he wouldn't want to be called 'death metal,' he'd want to be called 'progressive metal.' I remember Chuck coming up to me after 'Scream Bloody Gore' saying 'This just might sound like you.' He was proud of that and I was proud of him and we were friends. I loved him. I'm not trying to take anything away from DEATH, because they're fucking awesome. I think that they were influenced by POSSESSED, but they ran with it and went in their own direction and created their own vibe. They don't need to claim anything, but DEATH is DEATH. They're a fantastic band and fantastic musicians and fantastic friends. I just wish he was alive today so we could collaborate. To go a step further: Chuck used ['80s death/thrash producer] Randy Burns, who did 'Seven Churches' to do 'Scream Bloody Gore', his first album. He also did a cover of [POSSESSED's] 'The Exorcist'."

On whether the 1980s Bay Area metal scene felt like a "movement":

Jeff: "It very much did. Yes. There was a magic happening in the air back then. I'm seeing the same kind of flow happening again. I mean, with grunge, it seemed like death metal almost became a joke. It almost died. Now to see it back and flourishing and it's so alive and well. It's just fucking great. I was actually worried in the '90s that death metal would just disappear. Now that it's alive and well, it's fucking awesome."

On whether nu metal bands such as KORN and LIMP BIZKIT got under his skin:

Jeff: "I appreciate all art, all music. I think that everyone's entitled to play whatever they want. You know, that's their thing and they were good at it. I play my genre, they play their genre. The world would be a pretty fucking boring place if there was only one genre. I love all art."

On why death metal continues to survive:

Jeff: "I think death metal is a lifestyle. I think people take pride in being death metalheads. I think there's something core and primal about it that people really relate to. I think that exists in every art. But, I couldn't tell you any more than that we love it and that's our thing."

On the status of the band's new studio album, which will be their first full-length album since 1986's "Beyond The Gates":

Jeff: "I think you're going to hear some really fucking good death metal, man. I'm really happy with a lot of the tracks. I'm still writing in the process; I'm writing a lot of music, writing all of the lyrics, of course. I'm also collaborating with [new POSSESSED members] Daniel [Gonzalez, guitar] and Claudeous [Creamer, guitar]. We're working together hard to create something that we really like. We're hoping that translates well to other people and beyond. We're hoping people like it. If they don't, then fuck them."

On the musical direction of POSSESSED's forthcoming new album:

Jeff: "Well, it's me. I'm still me. I would say…it's very POSSESSED-y, but it's not so dated. I think as much as I love the first three albums, they're a little dated, so we're trying to bring it back into this century. We're not going to over-produce it or do anything but straight death metal. It's just what I want to play and what the band wants to play. We're really enjoying ourselves. So far, the demos went over really well."

POSSESSED recently inked a worldwide deal with Nuclear Blast. Watch a short teaser video announcing the signing that includes a short snippet of a new song demo below. Fans can expect POSSESSED's first full-length release in over three decades sometime in 2018.

Beccera remains the only member from POSSESSED's classic lineup, which dissolved entirely in 1987 after the "Eyes Of Horror" EP.

THE HAXANS, the goth-pop-infused power duo featuring Ash Costello (NEW YEARS DAY) on vocals and Matt Montgomery (ROB ZOMBIE) on vocals and guitar, will release its debut album, "Party Monsters", on Friday, October 13 via Another Century Records.

The music video for the track "Lights Out", taken from "Party Monsters", can be seen below.

Costello states: "For years we have felt like mad scientists, secretly working on our music hidden away from everyone else... and we are so excited to finally share our creation with the world!

"I genuinely love what we have made and cannot wait for you to hear it!

"We are two weirdos that hope we can call upon all the rest of the weirdos in the world to join in on our fun."

Montgomery adds: "Finally it's party time! We figure after a few years of building this Frankenstein in the garage, we should let it get out and walk around a little. Maybe someone will try to beat it up, maybe someone else will fall in love with it. Who knows? But it's out there and it's loose, and you never know where it will turn up!

"This record is a party for everyone else like us. The cover, the songtitles, the energy and the colors of this record are going to pull together an amazing cross section of people. It's just everything we like and celebrate every day, but amped up to eleven! It's got a kids-jumping-on-the-bed-while-the-parents-are-out-of-the-room feeling to it to me, which is kind of what this record was for us."

Montgomery previously said that the "secret ingredient" behind THE HAXANS was "having two people that are on the same wavelength. You're painting with the same colors. We've got the same color palette. We're, like, 'Purple?' 'You mean this purple?' And we go, 'Yeah, that's exactly the purple [we were looking for].'"

Fan-filmed video footage of MEGADETH's August 15 performance at 013 Poppodium in Tilburg, Netherlands can be seen below.

MEGADETH recently completed a North American tour with MESHUGGAH and will play arenas later in the year as the support act for German hard rock veterans SCORPIONS.

MEGADETH is planning on returning to the studio at the end of the year to begin work on the follow-up to 2016's "Dystopia" album.

The band's upcoming effort will mark MEGADETH's first release to feature new drummer Dirk Verbeuren, who officially joined the group a year ago.

MEGADETH was honored with in the "Best Metal Performance" category in the pre-telecast ceremony at the 59th annual Grammy Awards, which was held on February 12 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. MEGADETH was nominated for "Dystopia", the title track of its 2016 album.

"Dystopia" was the first album to feature Brazilian guitarist Kiko Loureiro, best known for his work with ANGRA.

Fan-filmed video footage of former MEGADETH guitarist Marty Friedman's entire August 16 performance at Scout Bar in Houston, Texas can be seen below.

Friedman's new solo album, "Wall Of Sound", was released on August 4 via Prosthetic Records. Produced by Friedman, engineered by Paul Fig (GHOST, RUSH, ALICE IN CHAINS) and mixed by Jens Bogren (KREATOR, OPETH, SEPULTURA), the isc "expands and destroys any conventional notions of instrumental music," according to a press release. Legendary QUEEN producer Mack came on board to handle the mixing on two tracks, "Streetlight" and "For A Friend", which Friedman proclaimed was "an honor for me, for sure."

Friedman said last year about the musical direction of the follow-up to his 2014 album "Inferno": "This time it's even more ambitious than that album was, a bit more dense, and, with any luck, more exciting for those of you who will hear it."

He added: "There will be elevent or twelve songs in total. Sometimes a song you really love doesn't make it to the album because it doesn't fit nicely in the sequencing. Either way, we're pushing sixty minutes, so it won't be a short album."

Marty's new CD was recorded in part at Dave Grohl's Studio 606 in California with engineer Paul Fig (ALICE IN CHAINS, RUSH, DEFTONES) and was previously described by Friedman as "a way more intense version" of its predecessor: "deeper, sadder, happier and more aggressive."

Like "Inferno", Friedman's new album features several guests, including prog-thrashers MUTOID MAN, Jørgen Munkeby of the Norwegian avant-garde jazz-metal outfit SHINING and Jinxx of Los Angeles theatrical rockers BLACK VEIL BRIDES.

Regarding how the collaboration with Jinxx came about, Friedman told Guitar World: "I'm a big fan of Jinxx and BLACK VEIL BRIDES. He came to my show in L.A. in 2015. Right after that, I was told that he plays violin. I didn't even know that! Then light bulbs went off. I thought now's the chance to really turn some heads by doing something that's a little bit, well, a lot, unexpected to my fans and his fans."

GHOST lead singer and founder Tobias Forge — who performs as Papa Emeritus — unmasked himself publicly for the first time since the band's formation for an appearance on "Sommar i P1", Swedish radio channel P1's daily one-man show which has aired every summer since 1959.

Each ninety-minute episode of "Sommar i P1" features a well-known Swede talking without interruption about whatever he or she likes, as well as choosing all the music for the program.

During his appearance on the show — which aired for the first time on Thursday, August 17 and can now be streamed at this location — Forge talked about his family life and particularly his older brother, Sebastian, who died of heart failure in 2009 the day after GHOST posted its first song on MySpace. At one point, Forge spoke directly to his late brother and was sobbing and crying while lamenting the fact that "we didn't get to experience this thing together." Forge also said that his mother was so proud of him that she was telling everyone about his involvement with GHOST even though the bandmembers' true identities were supposed to be kept secret. "[But] I guess it doesn't matter anymore," he added.

Tobias ended the program by telling the listeners: "My name is Tobias Forge and I'm the man behind the mask in GHOST. Thanks for listening."

You can read a rough English-language translation of Forge's entire "Sommar i P1" appearance on Reddit.

Forge previously revealed his identity while responding to a lawsuit filed by four former members of GHOST, who accused him of cheating them out of their rightful share of the profits from the group's album releases and world tours.

In his court documents, Forge — who had previously played in several other rock bands, including REPUGNANT, CRASHDIET, SUBVISION, MAGNA CARTA CARTEL and SUPERIOR — took credit for developing GHOST's image and stage show and blamed his ex-bandmates for "destroying the mystery" surrounding the group by lifting the lid on GHOST's business dealings. GHOST is known for its eccentric performances and is composed of six members easily recognized for their satanic attires. Five men who call themselves as Nameless Ghouls play the instruments while the lead vocalist is known as Papa Emeritus. The Nameless Ghouls who are wearing identical devil masks and costumes represent the five instrumentalities or elements (fire, water, air, earth and aether or quintessence) while their leader Papa Emeritus represents the group's anti-pope symbol.

Forge admitted in a 2016 interview with "Big Smash Radio" that the mystery surrounding GHOST has helped make the band more successful. "I think it definitely plays a part," he said. "The thing everybody keeps ranting about is the anonymity, which I have a comment on on the side, but I also think that you don't have to be anonymous or masked in order to have somewhat of a clandestine image. I mean, there are many artists that I know exactly where they are born and what their names are and where they live, which are still very, sort of, hidden. Even Nick Cave, who has a film about himself nowadays, is still someone who I would claim to be utterly enigmatic."

He continued: "Even if people would know who we are, or you could click on a Wikipedia page saying my date of birth, it does not necessarily mean that I have to go out on social media and tell you where I'm eating. So, yeah, I think even in the future, when it might not be as hidden, or as secret, I think that you can still uphold some sort of… level of fog around you."

Peaceville Records will release Mork’s third album, Ermitten Dal, on October 13th on vinyl and CD. New video for “I Hornenes Blide” is streaming below. Find preorder information at this location.

Primarily inspired by the works of Darkthrone and Burzum, Mork’s third album Eremittens Dal stands as a tribute to the spirit of old-school Norwegian black metal. Raw production and ice-cold riffs combine with the band's dynamic and atmospheric twists and the album effortlessly alternates between the ferocious and the melancholy, with themes of hate, death, seclusion and misanthropy.

The suitably grim pencil cover art comes courtesy of Jannicke Wiese-Hansen, who famously made artwork for early Burzum and Satyricon releases. Having featured guest vocals from Darkthrone’s Nocturno Culto on its previous album, Eremittens Dal includes special guest appearances from Dimmu Borgir's Silenoz who contributes vocals on two tracks, plus additional bass parts from 1349's Seidemann.  The album was mixed by Freddy Holm at Kleiva Studio and mastered at Enormous Door in the US.  

"Mork caught my attention a couple of years ago and I was immediately drawn to the atmospheric and reclusive soundscapes, enticed by the desolate and solitary approach - true to the old Norwegian black metal ways. It was as if I was thrown back in time. So when I got asked to add vocals on two tracks I didn't hesitate to comply, I just instantly knew I was meant to have a part in it!" - Silenoz (Dimmu Borgir) 

"I have seen the future of black metal, and its name is Mork. Halden Hellfire!” - Seidemann (1349)

Tracklisting:

“Hedningens Spisse Brodder”
“Holdere Av Fortet”
“Forsteinet I Hat”
“Eremittens Dal”
“I Hornenes Blide”
“Likfølget” 
“Et Rike I Nord” 
“I Enden Av Tauet” 
“Mørkets Alter” 
“Gravøl”

“I Hornenes Blide” video:

Peaceville Records will release a compilation of demos from Darkthrone entitled The Wind Of 666 Black Hearts on CD on October 6th. The CD is available for preorder at this location. The 2LP vinyl edition was released in November 2016 and is still available here.

The album holds pre-album recordings from 1991 and 1992, created during Darkthrone's highly regarded transitional period as the band marched towards black metal infamy. 

The Wind Of 666 Black Hearts contains tracks which would go on to feature on the classic A Blaze In The Northern Sky and Under A Funeral Moon albums. The A Blaze... rehearsal tracks feature the line-up of Nocturno Culto, Fenriz, Zephyrous and Dag Nilsen, while the Under a Funeral Moon rehearsal tracks saw Darkthrone narrowed to a 3-piece act, with Nocturno moving to bass and Zephyrous handling all guitars, with the recordings taken from the band's rehearsal venue in Vinterbro.

The Wind Of 666 Black Hearts also includes rare photos, lyrics, and liner notes from Fenriz.

Tracklisting:

“A Blaze In The Northern Sky”
“Kathaarian Life Code”
“The Pagan Winter”
“Where Cold Winds Blow”
“In The Shadow Of The Horns”
“Summer Of The Diabolical Holocaust”
“Crossing The Triangle Of Flames”
“Under A Funeral Moon”
“The Dance Of Eternal Shadows”
“Unholy Black Metal”

A true visionary is a rare thing; but such a man is Josh Dummer. Providing all instruments and vocals on his creation Buried Realm's debut, The Ichor Carcinoma, with the exception of some very exciting guests such as Bob Katsionis (Firewind, Septicflesh), Brandon Ellis (Arsis, The Black Dahlia Murder, Cannabis Corpse), Christopher Amott (Arch Enemy, Armageddon), Dean Paul Arnold (Vital Remains), Marios Iliopoulos (Nightrage), Peter Wichers (Soilwork), Ryan Strain (Recode The Subliminal), Teemu Mäntysaari (Wintersun) and Travis Montgomery (Threat Signal, Jeff Loomis band). Dummer is a man who is not afraid to gaze into the abyss for music and lyrical inspiration.

Inspired by Opeth, Kreator, Old Man’s Child, Symphony X (and tons of old hair metal); Dummer describes Buried Realm's music as ‘fierce, cutting, technical, melodic, and memorable’. The studio project represents a hidden dimension within himself where the ‘buried disputes’ of his life are confronted only through music; where he can express musical ideas without compromising.

Eager for the fans to hear his debut album, Dummer reflects: “I feel that listeners can appreciate it, not only on a musical level but hopefully enjoy the listening experience too. This album was a long time in the making and hopefully that translates. 'The Ichor Carcinoma’ was originally supposed to be an EP. However, I had too many pre-production demos and didn’t want to scrap them, so I decided on a full-length, which fans can expect many guests across the entire album!”

Not afraid to draw deep from a painful wellspring of inspiration, Dummer adds: “Many people close to me, myself included, have been though unfortunate life-threatening situations recently.  No one is invincible and everyone walks though life like they are…I couldn’t ignore those events when it came to writing lyrics for this release. Some of the songs go into further detail about the terror I’ve experienced and personal demons I’ve faced. The lyrics are about the mental and physical battles of terminal illness/diseases and the attempt to rebuild.”

A guitar playthrough video for the album's title track "The Ichor Carcinoma" can be seen below. The track features guests Bob Katsionis (Firewind, ex-Septicflesh) and Peter Wichers (ex-Soilwork).

"'The Ichor Carcinoma' - the title track of the album… This was the second song I wrote for the record. The riffs are racing and melodies/ solos are flying all over the place. The lyrics are about the mental and physical battles of terminal illness, personal demons and the attempt to rebuild,” says Dummer.

The Ichor Carcinoma is set for release on September 29th with pre-order available on Bandcamp, Amazon and iTunes.

Tracklisting:

“Portal”
“The Ichor Carcinoma”
“Asphyxiation’s Lullaby”
“Through These Darkened Halls”
“Apeiron I - The Legacy”
“On Serpent Soil”
“Apeiron II - Global Dreamer”
“Unscrupulous”
“Hidden Chapter”
“SuperSpell”

“The Ichor Carcinoma” guitar playthrough:

“Asphyxiation’s Lullaby”:

“The Ichor Carcinoma” lyric video:

(Photo - Tamara Clarke)

The 2LP edition of the new Pyramaze album, Contingent, will be released on September 29th in Europe and on October 13th in North America through Inner Wound Recordings. The 2LP edition is strictly limited to 300 copies worldwide.

With their milestone fifth album, Contingent, Pyramaze have grown and matured into a band that is capable of satisfying their fans while simultaneously continuing to break new ground. The incorporation of modern cinematic film score elements mixed with progressive metal riffs and melodies will leave the listener breathless! Huge, sweeping, hard-hitting, and poignant, Contingent is an epic post-apocalyptic conceptual piece inspired by current events, the human spirit to overcome struggle and diversity, and the brotherhood that lies there in. Produced, mixed and mastered by Jacob Hansen (Volbeat, Amaranthe, Epica, Evergrey).

"Divided by oceans, bound together by brotherhood, we must become that which divides us.... we are Pyramaze, and we are the Ocean!"

Contingent 2LP tracklisting:

Side A:
“Land Of Information”
“Kingdom Of Solace”
“Star Men”

Side B:
“A World Divided”
“Nemesis”
“Contingent - Part I: The Campaign”

Side C:
“20 Second Century”
“Obsession”
“Heir Apparent”

Side D:
“Contingent - Part II: The Hammer Of Remnant”
“Under Restraint”
“The Tides That Won't Change”
“Symphony Of Tears”

“Obsession” lyric video:

“The Tides That Won’t Change” lyric video:

“Star Men” lyric video:

“A World Divided” video:

“Kingdom Of Solace” lyric video:

“20 Second Century” lyric video:

Pyramaze lineup:

Terje Harøy - Vocals
Jacob Hansen - Guitars, Bass
Jonah W. - Keyboards
Toke Skjønnemand - Guitars
Morten Gade Sørensen - Drums

Finnish folk metal superstars Korpiklaani are streaming their performance of “Kultanainen”, featured on their first ever live Blu-ray/DVD+2CD package, Live At Masters Of Rock, out on August 25th through Nuclear Blast. The clip can be found below.

Pre-orders are live at Nuclear Blast and digital preorders receive “Pilli On Pajusta Tehty” (live) plus “Erämaan Ärjyt”(live) instantly.

After hearing the title of the package, it's easy to conclude that it was recorded at the identically named festival in Vizovice, Czech Republic. But there's even more to be excited about, this release doesn't just include Korpiklaani's show from 2016, it even has a second full show from 2014 as bonus feature. The 2016 concert features guest appearances from Tero Hyväluoma (additional fiddler) as well as Toni Perttula (additional accordion player), Sami's identical twin brother. Mixing and mastering of  Live at Masters of Rock were handled by front man Jonne Järvelä himself.

Jonne comments, "This our first ever DVD release, which we are quite proud of. It has no backing tracks, no choirs, no samples, all the mistakes are included. It is just us, Korpiklaani, pure live rock 'n' roll."

He also adds, "I spent a lot of time during the mastering process with Svante Forsbäck who recently handled the Rammstein mastering and we worked hard to achieve the right ambience and crowd sound. So when you turn it up loud, it feels like you are right there in the middle."

Sami adds, "For us, our bigger shows means more folk musicians, which are much cheaper than pyro, for example my brother agreed to this show for a few beers and he doesn't even drink much!"

Tracklisting:

Blu-ray/DVD
2016
“Intro (Tanhuvaara)”
“A Man With A Plan”
“Journey Man”
“Pilli On Pajusta Tehty”
“Erämaan Ärjyt”
“Lempo”
“Sahti”
“Ruumiinmultaa”
“Vaarinpolkka”
“Viima”
“Metsämies”
“Kultanainen”
“Kipumylly”
“Ämmänhauta”
“Rauta”
“Kylästä Keväinen Kehto”
“Wooden Pints”
“Vodka”
“Beer Beer”

2014
“Intro (Tanhuvaara)”
“Tuonelan Tuvilla”
“Ruumiinmultaa”
“Metsämies”
“Kantaiso”
“Juodaan Viinaa”
“Petoeläimen Kuola”
“Sumussa Hämärän Aamun”
“Vaarinpolkka”
“Kultanainen”
“Uniaika”
“Louhen Yhdeksäs Poika”
“Uni”
“Vodka”
“Ievan Polka”
“Rauta”
“Wooden Pints”
“Pellonpekko”
“Happy Little Boozer”

CD1 (2016)
“Intro (Tanhuvaara)”
“A Man With A Plan”
“Journey Man”
“Pilli On Pajusta Tehty”
“Erämaan Ärjyt”
“Lempo”
“Sahti”
“Ruumiinmultaa”
“Vaarinpolkka”
“Viima”
“Metsämies”
“Kultanainen”
“Kipumylly”
“Ämmänhauta”
“Rauta”
“Kylästä Keväinen Kehto”
“Wooden Pints”
“Vodka”
“Beer Beer”

CD2 (2014)
“Intro (Tanhuvaara)”
“Tuonelan Tuvilla”
“Ruumiinmultaa”
“Metsämies”
“Kantaiso”
“Juodaan Viinaa”
“Petoeläimen Kuola”
“Sumussa Hämärän Aamun”
“Vaarinpolkka”
“Kultanainen”
“Uniaika”
“Louhen Yhdeksäs Poika”
“Uni”
“Vodka”
“Ievan Polka”
“Rauta”
“Wooden Pints”
“Pellonpekko”
“Happy Little Boozer”

“Kultanainen” video:

Trailer #1:

Trailer #2:

“Erämaan Ärjyt” video:

“Pilli On Pajusta Tehty” video:

Lead singer Sly leaves Van Canto after 10 years. But no need to worry as a new member is already found in the Van Canto camp!

Sly states: "Dear fans, friends and fan club members!

“Today I would like to announce my departure as lead singer of Van Canto. Looking back on 10 years of an unforgettable band history, full of countless memorable moments, I would like to thank you all for your support and engagement to the band, your singing and the many concerts you brought your energy to and gave right back to us. It was a hard decision to reach, I also had to make due to private changes. The spirit in every Van Canto fan and musician will remain in my heart for eternity. I will not die in Battle.

“As far as new Van Canto projects are concerned, I wouldn't say no to a guest appearance. It's all just a question of time management, how much I can be involved, and of course what the band's vision is.

“I wish Van Canto and everyone involved all the best for the future, and fingers crossed that they have lots of new surprises and wonderful moments.

“Just to say, I will have a smile on my face and a tear in my eye and leave you all with a resounding RAKKATAKKA MOTHERFUCKER!!! Yours Sly."

Van Canto comments: "We are all sad to learn of Sly's leaving the band, but we would like to mention it was not because of the famous personal/professional differences. Quite the opposite. Sly, you will always be a part of the Van Canto family and we would be delighted to have you along at one of the "positive surprises", you wished for us, on the stage or behind a microphone. Time will tell dude, but friends will always be friends.

“It is never nice when a band changes its line up and must tell everyone. We were going back and forth, but we noticed we all have too much energy and motivation to sing old songs and write new ones, play concerts, record in the studio, go on tour and to arrange plans together, rather than just quit. Therefore, we will be presenting our new lineup on the 18.08.2017; and we would be more than delighted to have you all continue to accompany us on the strange journey that is Van Canto.

“Sly, we wish you all the best - We're there for you!"

Their new singer is called Hagen. To compliment his stormy and gravelly voice the band calls him Hagel, which is German for "Hailstone". He is an outstanding young man with a fantastic voice, which has an impressive range, from the highest scream to the lowest growl and he is eager to RAKKA TAKKA your asses. You can already see him in the video message with a sample song called "Voice Number Seven" below.

And by the way Ike is back on board and will be active in the studio and at selected concerts, together with Jan, to bring some deep, double doom-a-bass to your ears. The band is already busy with preparing for upcoming festivals and tour, as well as a brand new album for next year.

Keep your eyes and ears open or as Van Canto use to say it: RAKKATAKKA, MOTHERFUCKERS!!!

(Photo - Frauke Bönsch/www.fash.de)

Let the curtain rise on the new Mediterranean symphonic metal sensation, Sleeping Romance. This Italian quintet displays true mastery, as they fuse bloodcurdling classical sounds with monstrous melodic death metal-riffing.  The music is full of force yet sustained by noble, theatrical flamboyance and provides a symphony for the broken hearted who somehow manage to love again.

Their upcoming album, Alba, leads a journey of orchestral opera arrangements and siren songs; touching, sometimes frightening, but always as personal as can be. Songstress Federica Lanna means every word she sings and Federico Truzzi complements her lovely voice with delicate guitars.

Sleeping Romance states: “We are very excited to present our new album Alba, an album we are very proud of! Alba represents a strong musical evolution compared to our debut album and is more dark, powerful and deep. Heavy guitar riffing, a lot of orchestral and choir sections and emotional lyrics is what you'll get from this album. All strings, woodwinds, brasses and choir parts are recorded live to give our songs real life and a great sound.

“The concept of Alba, “Dawn” in Italian, centers around the main character and her life that advances through difficulties, choices and mistakes, and leads the character to a positive growth. The message the concept wants to give is that life is complex, full of obstacles, but there’s always a way forward, and an opportunity for everyone to reach what their heart desire. We really hope you will appreciate our second album, both the music and the concept and atmosphere!”

Watch a first behind the scenes studio video below and get a preview of the title track. Alba will be released on November 3rd via Napalm Records and available as digital download as well as jewel case CD.

Tracklisting:

“Overture - Twilight”
“Where The Light Is Bleeding”
“Lost In My Eyes”
“Touch The Sun”
“Forgiveness”
“My Temptation”
“Across The Sea”
“Everything Behind”
“Through The Looking Glass”
“Alba”
“Underture – Daylight”

Webisode #1:

Sleeping Romance Line-up:
Federica Lanna - Vocals
Truzzi Federico - Guitar and orchestra
Lorenzo Costi - Bass
Francesco Zanarelli - Drums
Fabrizio Incao - Guitar

Finland’s Grave Pleasures have released a new single, “Be My Hiroshima”, featured on their second album, Motherblood, due for release on September 29th via Century Media Records. A video for the track can be seen below.

Vocalist Mat McNerney explains: “’Be My Hiroshima’ is our love song for the apocalypse. The video is taken from our cover art by Tekla Vály. Images of Kali, the mother who sits on top of the cycle of life and death, birth and rebirth (and her consort Shiva who is the destroyer and transformer). As the dawn of man begins to draw to an end, it is her blood that we have shed, and like the sands of time it spills out. We are sacrificing our mother, and eating her flesh and drinking her blood. This is the eucharist which represents our extinction. Within her womb we are born and we are born to die there. It's an endless love affair with death. A love like motherblood.

I rest my mouth upon your mouth
and the world is the colour of murder
I lie beside your oblivion
in the shadow of mass destruction.”

Motherblood was produced by Jaime Gomez Arellano (Paradise Lost, Ghost, Ulver, Cathedral) and is the follow up to the bands’ debut album Dreamcrash which was released in 2015, the first recording since the band morphed from their initial underground band Beastmilk. Since then they have played throughout Europe and the UK (including Sonisphere) gaining converts continually, building a fan base for their dark apocalyptic haunting music. With lots of influences including Magazine, The Wire. The Cure and Echo And The Bunnymen - mixed with Bowie, Duran Duran and Killing Joke (which whom they have toured) - the band have taken this thrilling mix and brought it uniquely up to date with a passionate contemporary sound.

The pre-order of the album has started. Motherblood is offered in the following configurations:

- Standard CD Jewelcase
- Ltd. Mediabook (plus bonus track)
- Deluxe LP version (gatefold sleeve, 180 gram vinyl, 12-page LP-booklet, CD plus bonus track)
- Digital download/stream

The LP version is available in the following vinyl colours:

- Kali Transparent Blue: 100 copies, exclusively available at CM Distro Europe
- Kali Opaque Blue: 200 copies, exclusively available at UK retailers
- Motherblood Transparent Red: 300 copies, available in the USA through RED
- Motherblood Opaque Red: 200 copies, available at various mailorder stores
- Clear: 200 copies, exclusively sold by the band
- Kali’s Weaponry Gold: 200 copies, exclusively available at Nuclear Blast and Levykauppa Äx

Pre-order the album here.

Tracklisting:

“Infatuation Overkill”
“Doomsday Rainbows”
“Be My Hiroshima”
“Joy Through Death”
“Mind Intruder”
“Laughing Abyss”
“Falling For An Atom Bomb”
“Atomic Christ”
“Deadenders”
“Haunted Afterlife”

“Infatuation Overkill” video:

Grave Pleasures lineup:

Mat McNerney - Vocals
Juho Vanhanen - Guitars
Aleksi Kiiskilä - Guitars
Valtteri Arino - Bass
Rainer Tuomikanto - Drums

Dead Lord’s third studio album, In Ignorance We Trust, is scheduled to be released on August 25th via Century Media Records. A video for the new single, “Kill Them All”, can be seen below.

Says the band: “We're proud to give you the music video for the song ‘Kill Them All’ from our new album In Ignorance We Trust! This video shows us in our true elements, which is on the road and on stage! For everyone who have yet to see an actual, in life, Dead Lord rock concert, this is as close as you can get! Now you know what you’re missing out on, so quit your day job and come to the next show! Shot during the early summer of 2017 in Switzerland, Spain and Portugal, it captures the spirit of the road, the misery of airport waiting time, the junk food, and the amazing feeling of the sweaty shows. Enjoy!"

The video was produced by Nacho Montero and directed by Paco Fernández (Holy Cuervo).

Pre-order the album, which was recorded with Ola Ersfjord at Cuervo Recording Service in Madrid, Spain, in the format of your choice, at this location. You can chose between he regular jewelcase version, the limited Digipak version (with bonus material and patch), the LP version (180 gram vinyl, special vinyl mastering, inlay and double-sided poster) or the digital download.

The LP version is offered in the following vinyl colours:

- Black vinyl: unlimited
- Transparent-magenta vinyl: limited to 100 copies, exclusively available at CM Distro
- Petrol-green vinyl: limited to 200 copies, available at various online stores
- Mint-coloured vinyl: limited to 200 copies, exclusively sold by the band
- Orange vinyl: limited to 200 copies, exclusively available at EMP and Nuclear Blast

Dead Lord’s Hakim Krim, who designed the artwork for In Ignorance We Trust, commented on the cover as follows: "This album is a buffet filled with goodness-oozing nuggets of facemeltivity. What better way to top it off, than with some flamed fruit for dessert? Cheers!”

In Ignorance We Trust tracklisting:

“Ignorance”
“Too Late”
“Reruns”
“Leave Me Be”
“The Glitch”
“Kill Them All”
“Never Die”
“Part Of Me”
“They!”
“Darker Times”

“Too Late” video:

“Reruns”:

Dead Lord live dates are listed below:

August (with Night, unless noted)
30 - Hamburg, Germany - Bambi Galore
31 - Dresden, Germany - Scheune

September (with Night, unless noted)
1 - Würzburg, Germany - Immerhin
2 - Vienna, Austria - Das Bach
3 - Milano, Italy - TBA
4 - Frankfurt, Germany - Das Bett
5 - TBA
6 - Lausanne, Switzerland - Le Cave Du Bleu Lezard
7 - Köln, Germany - Underground
8 - Roeselare, Belgium - De Verlichte Geest
9 - Raismes, France - Raismes Fest (+ many others, no Night)
10 - Nijmegen, The Netherlands - Doornroosje (+ Supersuckers)

November
16 - Leipzig, Germany - Werk 2

November (with Imperial State Electric)
17 - Berlin, Germany - Lido
18 - Eindhoven, The Netherlands - Helldorado Festival
19 - Salzburg, Austria - Rockhouse
20 - München, Germany - Backstage
21 - Nürnberg, Germany - Der Cult
22 - Winterthur, Switzerland - Gaswerk
23 - Pratteln, Switzerland - Z7
24 - Weinheim, Germany - Café Central
25 - Bochum, Germany - Rockpalast
26 - Hamburg, Germany - Hafenklang

Century Media Records has announced the worldwide signing of British heavy metal act Savage Messiah, who will release their fourth full-length album, entitled Hands Of Fate, on October 27th.

A video for the album’s title track can be seen below. As of now “Hands Of Fate” is also available as a digital single on all streaming and download platforms and as an Instant Grat track on iTunes and Amazon. Get it here.

Jens Prueter (Head Of A&R, Century Media Records Europe) comments on the signing: “We are very happy to welcome Savage Messiah to Century Media Records. It’s great to see that a young band can combine the best of old classics from Iron Maiden to Metallica with a fresh approach and, most importantly, excellent songs that can stand the test of time. The birthplace of heavy metal can be proud about its New Generation Of British Heavy Metal (NGOBHM).”

The band adds: “We’re so pleased to announce teaming up with Century Media Records. This represents a big step for Savage Messiah and we look forward to working on our new album together and taking the band to the next level and beyond!”

Hands Of Fate was recorded at Rockfield Studios Monmouth (Black Sabbath, Rush, Queen), produced by Scott Atkins (Cradle of Filth) and mastered by Dave Collins (Metallica, Soundgarden, Linkin Park). The cover art was done by Travis Smith (Avenged Sevenfold, Opeth).

Savage Messiah is:

David Silver - lead guitar, vocals
Sam S Junior - lead guitar, backing vocals
Mira Slama - bass guitar
Andrea Gorio - drums

Billy Idol, along with Steve Stevens and the band, performed last night (August 17th) on The Late Late Show With James Corden on CBS. Watch them perform the classic “White Wedding” below:

Billy Idol fist pumps his way back into Las Vegas this October for his Billy Idol: Forever show residency. Billy Idol: Forever features Idol, his longtime guitarist Steve Stevens, and the rest of Idol’s band at the top of their game, performing songs from throughout Idol’s extensive catalog. Check out a new video trailer below.

Billy Idol: Forever hits House Of Blues in Las Vegas on the following dates: October 4th, 6th, 7th, 11th, 13th, 14th, 18th, 20th, 21st. More details and tickets at this location.

We live on the layers of deep time and history, strata of times past; life literally depends on centuries of decay. Now, progressive extreme metal visionaries Centuries Of Decay build on the metal that has come before to create the metal of the future. Known for creating an intense powerful atmosphere and letting the metal speak for itself in their live performance, the Toronto based quintet are bringing that experience to fans in their debut self-titled concept album recently released on August 4th. BraveWords is premiering the new video for “Wings Of Death”.

Drummer Derrick Doucette comments:

"We spend so much time at our rehearsal space drilling and perfecting our live sets, that it seemed fitting to film us in our 'natural environment.' Our video is an intense, intimate glimpse into what it's like to be at one of our rehearsals. I feel that it captures our energy and passion in an artistic and authentic way."

Order the album on Bandcamp.

(Photo by: Brendan Smyth)

Wiesbaden, Germany-based 4-piece, The New Roses, are streaming “Dancing On A Razor Blade”, a track from their new album, One More For The Road, out on August 25th via Napalm Records. Listen to the song below.

One More For The Road is now available for pre-order here.

One More For The Road tracklisting:

“Quarter To Twelve”
“My Own Worst Enemy”
“Forever Never Comes”
“Dancing On A Razor Blade”
“Consider Me Gone”
“Life Ain't Easy (For A Boy With Long Hair)”
“Every Wild Heart”
“Fight You Leaving Me”
“The Same Moon”
“Piece By Peace Of Mind”
“One More For The Road”
“Do I Look Scared To You (Bonus Track)
“The Storm” (Bonus Track)”
“Nitro Nights” (Bonus Track)

“Dancing On A Razor Blade”:

Track-by-track #1:

"Life Ain't Easy (For A Boy With A Long Hair)" video:

"Every Wild Heart" video:

Delivering phenomenal hearty hymns, with One More For The Road, The New Roses again share the feeling of stepping into endless freedom and the album surely marks the band's catchiest, emotional and heaviest record to date.

Says the band: “One More For The Road is 100% New Roses, straight in your face rock’n’roll, no compromises, based on the experiences of the countless shows we played over the last year, dedicated to our great live audience. We can’t wait to play it live on our upcoming tour, because these songs were written for a hot stage, a loud crowd and a kick ass rock’n’roll band!"

Find the band’s tour schedule here.

Norway's Leprous will release their fifth studio album, Malina, on August 25th via InsideOut Music. Malina will be available as Jewelcase CD and Digital Download, but also as limited edition Mediabook CD (with extended booklet and the bonus-track "Root") and as Gatefold 2LP on 180gr. vinyl (with a poster, the bonus-track "Root" and the entire album on CD). Pre-order the new album here.

The album's new single "Illuminate" is released today in a video shot in Romania and directed by Costin Chioreanu / Twilight 13 Media. Watch the clip below or stream the single on Spotify.

The band commented on the track as follows: “‘Illuminate’ is one of the most groovy songs we've ever made! It's the Leprous people know, but in a fresh version. The abstract and dark video from Costin underlines the atmosphere of the song perfectly."

Following a hugely successful European tour as support to label-mates Devin Townsend Project earlier this year, Leprous wrapped up the work on Malina with producer David Castillo at Ghost Ward Studio in Sweden, while mixing duties were once again taken care of by Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios in Sweden. The album's artwork was designed by Corey Meyers.

Tracklisting:
    
“Bonneville”
“Stuck”
“From The Flame”
“Captive”
“Illuminate”
“Leashes”
“Mirage”
“Malina”
“Coma”
“The Weight Of Disaster”
“The Last Milestone”

“Stuck” (Radio Edit) video:

Leprous will be heading out on an extensive headlining tour of Europe for Malina, together with special guests Agent Fresco from Iceland, plus Australia's AlithiA and fellow Norwegian's Astrosaur.

You can find the full list of dates below.

October
28 - Pumpehuset - Copenhagen, Denmark
29 - Logo - Hamburg, Germany
30 - Luxor - Cologne, Germany
31 - Rockhal - Esch, Luxembourg

November
1 - Patronaat - Haarlem, Netherlands
2 - The Dome - London, UK
3 - Voodoo Lounge - Dublin, Ireland
4 - Damnation Festival - Leeds, UK
5 - Biebob - Vosselaar, Belgium
6 - Trabendo - Paris, France
7 - Barakason - Nantes, France
8 - Rocher Palmer - Bordeaux, France
11 - Le Metronum - Toulouse, France
12 - Le Moulin - Marseille, France
13 - Magnolia - Milan, Italy
14 - CCO Villeurbanne - Lyon, France
15 - Salzhaus - Winterthur, Switzerland
16 - Grillen - Colmar, France
17 - Backstage Halle - Munich, Germany
18 - Szene - Vienna, Austria
19 - A38 - Budapest, Hungary
20 - Rock Café - Prague, Czech Republic
21 - Proxima - Warsaw, Poland
22 - Musik & Freiden - Berlin, Germany

America's legendary progressive rock band Kansas, will release their new live album Leftoverture Live & Beyond, on November 3rd.  This is the first live album since 2009 for the band that has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, and is famous for classic hits such as "Carry On Wayward Son" and "Dust in the Wind", to progressive epics like "Miracles Out Of Nowhere".

Pre-orders will be accepted starting August 23rd at KansasBand.com.

Leftoverture Live & Beyond, produced by Jeff Glixman, features 19 songs selected from 12 shows recorded during Kansas' Spring 2017 Leftoverture 40th Anniversary Tour. The set list includes classic hits, deep cuts, new songs from the 2016 studio album The Prelude Implicit, and culminates with the band's sextuple-platinum breakthrough album, Leftoverture, performed in its entirety.

Coinciding with the 40th Anniversary of Leftoverture, and the release of The Prelude Implicit, Kansas embarked on their biggest headlining tour in decades. The overwhelming success of that tour led the band, along with Inside Out Music, to release selected songs from the tour as a live album.

"When we saw how much our fans enjoyed the Leftoverture 40th Anniversary Tour shows, we knew we had to record a live album," said Kansas drummer, Phil Ehart. "When it came to finding someone to produce it, we thought the best possible person would be the guy that produced Leftoverture forty years ago. So, we called Jeff Glixman."

"I'm really excited with how this live album sounds," adds producer, Jeff Glixman. "This band is on fire. Producing this live album was truly an undertaking, but I am confident that Kansas fans will enjoy the end result."

Leftoverture Live & Beyond," will be released on November 3rd on Inside Out Music, distributed by The Orchard. The album will be available as a double CD digipak, four 180 Gram Vinyl boxed set, and digitally on iTunes and Google Play.

Tracklisting:

"Icarus II"
"Icarus"
"Point Of Know Return"
"Paradox"
"Journey From Mariabronn"
"Lamplight Symphony"
"Dust In The Wind"
"Rhythm In The Spirit"
"The Voyage Of Eight Eighteen"
"Section 60"
"Carry On Wayward Son"
"The Wall"
"What's On My Mind"
"Miracles Out Of Nowhere"
"Opus Insert"
"Questions Of My Childhood"
"Cheyenne Anthem"
"Magnum Opus"
"Portrait (He Knew)"

Kansas will resume the Leftoverture 40th Anniversary Tour this fall. More information on the tour, including specific dates, can be found at this location.

 

Greek heavy / doom metal band Sorrows Path will release their new album, Touching Infinity, on September 22nd via Iron Shield Records. The artwork and tracklisting have just been revealed:

"Intro To Infinity"
"Fantasies Will Never Die"
"Leneh"
"My Chosen God"
"Metaphysical Song"
"The Subconscious"
"Beauty"
"Forgiveness"
"Revival Of Feminine Grandeur"
"Touching Infinity"

Sorrows Path is:

Stavros Giannakos - bass
Angelos Ioannidis - vocals
Fotis Mountouris - drums
Kostas Salomidis - guitars
George Vichos - guitars

For further details, visit the official Sorrows Path Facebook page.

 

Austrian death / thrash metallers Darkfall have issued a video for "Ride Through The Sky", the opening track from their forthcoming album At The End Of Times.

At The End Of Times will be released on September 8th via MDD Records.

Tracklisting:

"Ride Through The Sky"
"The Breed Of Death"
"The Way Of Victory"
"Deathcult Debauchery"
"Ashes Of Dead Gods"
"Your God Is Dead"
"Blutgott"
"Welcome The Day You Die"
"Ash Nazg - One Ring"
"Land Of No Return MMXVII"

Pre-order your CD now at this location. For futher details, visit the official Darkfall Facebook page.

 

 

 

Sweden’s Corroded have released a video for the new acoustic version of “A Note To Me”, the opening track of  their upcoming EP, entitled The Nevo Sessions. Watch the clip below.

Corroded headed into Nevo Studios in Sundsvall, in their native Sweden earlier this summer to re-work three tracks off their Defcon Zero album. These acoustic re-recordings get to the very heart of the song in a way Corroded has never done before.

A message from the band follows: “The EP will be released August 25th, but we will offer everyone who have ordered from our Pledge campaign a free download and an exclusive first look at a live video from the studio. If you haven't pledged yet, go do it here (new limited offers added along the campaign!)”

Tracklisting:

“A Note To Me”
“Day Of Judgement”
“Carry Me My Bones”
 
“A Note To Me”:

Trailer:

Southern California rock 'n' roll band FIREBALL MINISTRY will release its fifth studio album, "Remember The Story", on October 6 via Cleopatra Records. The band's first disc in nearly seven years delivers their tried-and-true signature stomp and fuzzy swing with an even broader scope and deeper emotional range. The album mines the depths of loss, pain, and confusion, exorcising demons with the spirited uplift this kind of music best delivers. "'Remember The Story' is about moving forward while staying connected to your past. With this album we've reached a new stage of crystallization and prowess in our riffage," says Emily J Burton. "This is a very personal record to me and was written from down deep," adds James A Rota. "It's also an honor to be playing alongside Emily [Burton] and John [Oreshnick] for the last twenty years. Having Scott [Reeder] with us along for the ride has made our greatest music to date, in my humble opinion." "Remember The Story" was produced/mixed by Paul Fig, the engineer behind important records from ALICE IN CHAINS and GHOST. SABBATH-soaked rhythms, PRIEST-worshipping melodies and no-nonsense THIN LIZZY mayhem collide in the Hollywood, California band, a group that has humbly but confidently flown the flag for rock authenticity since the hard-partying year of 1999. "Remember The Story"'s cover artwork was created by Caitlin Mattisson and conveys the album's theme of death and renewal. Speaking about the art, Mattisson says: "The vulture represents renewal and transformation and has connections to many mythologies and cultures, from being descended from Griffins in Greek mythology to the scientific (Latin) name of Turkey Vulture translating to Golden Purifier, which ties in to Jim's theme about a second chance at life. Elements inspired by Hildgard of Bingen have been worked into the border shapes, as well as two blown-out candles on the front. The book on the front is a FIREBALL MINISTRY hymnal shooting light. On the back of the album the candles are lit again and the vulture is flying away towards a new moon, new beginning." "Remember The Story" track listing:

01. End Of Our Truth02. Everything You Wanted03. Back On Earth04. The Answer05. Dying To Win06. Stop Talking07. Weaver's Dawn08. Remember The Story09. All For Naught10. I Don't Believe A Word FIREBALL MINISTRY will perform at the Cal Jam 17 festival on October 7 at Glen Helen Amphitheater And Festival Grounds in San Bernardino, California. Also performing at the festival will be FOO FIGHTERS, QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, CAGE THE ELEPHANT, LIAM GALLAGHER, THE KILLS, ROYAL BLOOD and more. Photo credit: Andrew Stuart

Finnish death metal masters Purtenance are back with a new release. It's a four-song EP entitled Paradox Of Existence, and it's scheduled for international release on September 12th through Xtreem Music. The new track “Vicious Seeds Of Mortality” is available for streaming below.

After returning to a five-piece lineup, Purtenance began to work on new tunes, which were recorded during the first half of 2017, and will now be released as an EP that follows their trademarked heavy old-school Finnish death metal, for which they've been known since their inception in 1989. The cover artwork was once again created by Chris Moyen, who's done every Purtenance sleeve since their debut album, Member Of Immortal Damnation, in 1992.

Tracklisting:

"In The End Only Death Will Remain"
"Vicious Seeds Of Mortality"
"Paradox Of Existence"
"Nekro Orgy"

“Vicious Seeds Of Mortality”:

"In The End Only Death Will Remain”:

For further details, visit Purtenance on Facebook.

Back in February, true Norwegian Balkan metallers Trollfest released their latest album, Helluva, via NoiseArt Records. Today, the band release a video for the song "Hen Of Hades", taken from the album.

In support of the new record, the band will tour Europe in early 2018 to present the new material to the fans all over Europe.Together with the Finnish folk metal superstars Korpiklaani, their Russian companions in Arkona and Dutch folk metallers Heidevolk, the trolls will hit the stages again. At weekends, the program will be extended by additional acts. Find all dates below.

February
15 - Hamburg, Germany - Markthalle
16 - Antwerp, Belgium - Trix
17 - Oberhausen, Germany - Turbinenhalle 2
18 - Amsterdam, Netherlands - Melkweg
19 - Saarbrücken, Germany - Roxy/Garage
20 - Paris, France - Elysée Montmartre
22 - Toulouse, France - Le Bikini
23 - Madrid, Spain - But/Copernico
24 - Barcelona, Spain - Salamandra 1
25 - Lyon, France - Transbordeur
26 - Vevey, Switzerland - The Rocking Chair
27 - Aschaffenburg, Germany - Colos-Saal
28 - Berlin, Germany - Columbia Theater

March
1 - Prague, Czech Republic - Meet Factory
2 - Munich, Germany - Backstage
4 - Pratteln, Switzerland - Z7
5 - Milan, Italy - Magazzini Generali
6 - Salzburg, Austria - Rockhouse
7 - Graz, Austria - Orpheum
8 - Vienna, Austria - Simm City
9 - Leipzig, Germany - Hellraiser
10 - Geiselwind, Germany - Musichall
11 - Hanover, Germany - Capitol

French death metal legion, The Walking Dead Orchestra, will release their second full-length, Resurrect, on October 13th via Unique Leader Records.

Issues the band of the self-produced offering, "We conditioned ourselves to unleash our primal influences, it's a back-to-the-roots process with old-school riffs tuned to the more modern sound. We are proud of this combination. Each song has its own identity. We recorded, mixed, and mastered the entire album by ourselves at our own studio, Spike Recording Studio, which allowed us to keep every step of the production process under control. This gave us the time and freedom to really develop our sound. This album imposes an ambiance with many twists and surprises and the songs structures are more mature. This is a new chapter for the band but also for the Architect, the main character of The Walking Dead Orchestra's concept which takes place through a post-apocalyptic world. The artwork reflects The Walking Dead Orchestra's universe and illustrates each situation our main character goes through."

Pre-orders for Resurrect will be available in the coming weeks. In the meantime, check out "Dogmes Anxiogenes”, streaming below.

Resurrect tracklisting:

"Calvaire
"Resurrect The Scourge”
"Through The Realm Of Chaos”
"Vengeful Flavors”
"Dogmes Anxiogenes”
"Area Of Desolation”
"Demoligarchie”
"Siamese Traitors”
"Apostate”
"Necrosphere”
"Spread The Chaos And Terror”
"Desecrate”

"Dogmes Anxiogenes”:

Resurrect by The Walking Dead Orchestra

Heavy metal pioneers, Accept, announce that their brand-new studio album, The Rise Of Chaos (released on August 4th), entered the charts in various parts of the world.

Here are the first results:

Germany: #3
Switzerland: #4
Finland: #5
Czech Republic: #5
Sweden: #10 (Hard Rock #1, Vinyl #1, Physical: #2)
Austria: #13
Poland: #26
Belgium: #31 (Wallonia #25, Flanders #36)
France: #40
Japan #54 (International #7)
Canada: #103 (#2 Hard Music, #24 Current Albums, #27 Top Albums)
UK: #105 (#4 Rock, #5 Indie)
USA: #140 (#3 Hard Music, #11 Rock, #27 Top Currents)
Netherlands: #177

In celebration of this release, the band played an impressive show at Wacken Open Air in front of 85,000+ fans on the evening before the release, where some songs were also performed with the Czech National Symphony Orchestra.

To show the fans who couldn't be there, how massive this show was, Accept recently launched the album's opening track, “Die By The Sword”, from the mentioned show. Watch below:

Blood God will release a 3CD digipak, Rock'N'Roll Warmachine, on September 29th via Massacre Records.

The set contains the albums Thunderbeast, Blood Is My Trademark, and No Brain But Balls, as well as a total of eight bonus tracks, including cover versions of AC/DC, Accept and Judas Priest songs.

The cover artwork was created by Jan Meininghaus.

Tracklisting:

CD1 - Thunderbeast

“Crusaders Of God”
“Bullet To The Head”
“City Of Bones”
“Vampire Holocaust”
“Girl To Adore”
“Super Hot Vampire Lady”
“Devil Dog”
“Super Killer Death Match”
“Anti Hero”
“Second Hand Woman”
“Firethrone Overlord”
“Murdermaker”
“Heavy Metal Monsternaut”
“Thunderbeast”
“Painkiller” (Judas Priest Cover) (Bonus Track)
“Fast As A Shark” (Accept Cover) (Bonus Track)

CD2 - Blood Is My Trademark

“Slaugtherman”
“Monstermaker”
“Defenders Of The Throne Of Fire”
“Warhordes From The Underworld”
“Carnager”
“Sexy Music For Sexy People”
“Blood Is My Trademark”
“World Of Blood Gods”
“Mr. Kill”
“Dragonbeasts Are Rising”
“Hail Caesar” (AC/DC Cover) (Bonus Track)
“Heavy Duty” (Judas Priest Cover) (Bonus Track)

CD3 - No Brain But Balls

“Blow Job Barbie”
“Womanizer”
“Nasty Lover”
“Stupid But Sexy”
“This Woman Makes Me Crawl”
“No Brain But Balls”
“Psycho Pussy”
“Lovemaker”
“Rock The Hell Out Of Me”
“Love And Pain”
“Hangover From Hell”
“Hard Rock Party Bus”
“Sex Kitten”
“Rock'N'Roll Warmachine” (Bonus Track)
“Demon Lady” (Bonus Track)
“3 Riff Hit ”(Bonus Track)
“Hard Rocking” (Bonus Track)