"Metallica: Back To The Front", the definitive story of METALLICA's classic 1986 album "Master Of Puppets" and the tour that followed its release, hits bookstores and online sellers on September 13. A very special Collector's Edition of the book was made available two weeks earlier on August 30 through Metallica.com and MoonriseMedia.net.

A new trailer for "Metallica: Back To The Front" is available below.

"Metallica: Back To The Front" includes an extensive interview with Ray Burton, father of late METALLICA bassist Cliff Burton, who tragically died in a September 1986 bus accident during the European leg of the "Damage Inc." trek.

Says METALLICA: "Two years in the making, we're beyond excited to finally share it with you.

"To refresh your memories, we teamed up with acclaimed award-winning author Matt Taylor ('Jaws: Memories From Martha's Vineyard') and you all jumped in to assist us in putting the pieces together by sending your photos, videos, stories and mementos. We hit the storage lockers, attics and basements to fill the book with hundreds of never-before-seen images pulled from our personal archives and have been involved every step of the way to bring you the complete story.

"The deluxe edition comes in a sleek case that includes a hardcover, clothbound, limited edition copy of the 276-page book and a portfolio containing a 1.25" x 1.25" piece of an original roadcase used to ship the band's equipment to Denmark for the recording of the album and on the tour that followed its release.

"Matt sat with us for exclusive, intensive interviews and we dug deep in our memory banks for stories, anecdotes, tidbits and tales from the studio, the road and beyond.

"A huge thanks to the people who were a part of our history at that time who sat with Matt, including record producer Flemming Rasmussen and the man who mixed it, Michael Wagener. Matt also tracked down the entire 'Master Of Puppets' road crew, including John Marshall and members of the bands who toured with us, ANTHRAX and ARMORED SAINT. Our booking agent, tour promoters and managers, Cliff Burnstein and Peter Mensch, all were overly generous with their time and recollections. FAITH NO MORE guitarist Jim Martin and drummer Mike Bordin and DIAMOND HEAD's Brian Tatler spoke with Matt about their memories of those crazy times. Of course, you, the fans who were at those shows gave us an amazing view of your memories and experiences. Finally, we're honored that Cliff Burton's dad Ray sat down for an extensive interview."

"Master Of Puppets" was released on February 24, 1986 and was the first album METALLICA recorded after signing a major label deal with Elektra Records.

The set only reached No. 29 on the Billboard album chart but has sold over six million copies in the U.S. since.

It is the last record to feature bassist Cliff Burton, who was killed later that year in a tour bus crash.

Several songs from the album are still staples of METALLICA's live set, including "Battery", "Welcome Home (Sanitarium)" and the title track.

Many fans consider it METALLICA's finest album, a fact that the band acknowledged by playing it in its entirety on a European tour in 2006.

PHIL CAMPBELL AND THE BASTARD SONS (formerly PHIL CAMPBELL'S ALL STARR BAND), the band featuring MOTÖRHEAD guitarist Phil Campbell alongside his sons Todd, Dane and Tyla, plus vocalist Neil Starr, will release its self-titled debut five-track EP on November 18 via Motörhead Music.

Produced by Todd Campbell at the band's own Stompbox Studios in Wales, U.K., and mixed by MOTÖRHEAD producer Cameron Webb, "Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons" loudly shoves you head-first into its raw, gritty, classic and instantly accessible rock 'n' roll charms. Whether it's the speedy biker-charged refrain of "No Turning Back", the crunchy catchy jump of "Big Mouth" or the beautiful-yet-bombastic balladry of "Life In Space", "Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons" brings uniquely organic life and verve to every last riff and stomp, with Starr's sensational vocals ensuring this EP will be the surprise of the 2016 rock 'n' roll release calendar.

Neil Starr recently told Kaaos TV about PHIL CAMPBELL AND THE BASTARD SONS' debut EP: "The reason it's an EP is we can get that done quicker. We wanted to give people some music to hear that was our own music, some music of our own that we can play live as well. So the idea was to get something done as quick as possible. It keeps the fans interested in the band, because there's new songs to keep it fresh. And it's great for us, 'cause we get to write more songs all the time. Todd, who's in the band, has his own recording studio, so it's really easy for us to just go in and do what we wanna do whenever we want, which is great."

Regarding the musical direction of PHIL CAMPBELL AND THE BASTARD SONS' original material, Neil said: "You know what you're gonna get, because Phil Campbell is the riff god. So you hear these MOTÖRHEAD riffs; Phil wrote a lot of those songs. So there's elements of that gonna be coming through in the music. Obviously, personally, I wouldn't ever want to try and be like Lemmy and his style that he does, because that's one person who does that, and that's him. You don't try and do that. I bring my own style to the band, but, obviously, yeah, there's lots of really great riffs in the songs, like you would expect from a band that's got Phil Campbell in it. It's just rock and roll music, I guess."

"Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons" EP track listing:

01. Big Mouth02. Spiders03. Take Aim04. No Turning Back05. Life In Space

Pre-orders with an exclusive download of "Big Mouth" will be available from September 30.

LED ZEPPELIN will release an expanded version of its 1997 "BBC Sessions" on September 16. The updated set, retitled "The Complete BBC Sessions", was produced by Jimmy Page and features eight previously unreleased tracks — including "I Can't Quit You Baby", "You Shook Me" and the only recorded performance of "Sunshine Woman".

An extended performance of the ZEPPELIN classic "Dazed And Confused", taken from "The Complete BBC Sessions", can be streamed below.

"The Complete BBC Sessions" will be available in multiple formats from Atlantic/Swan Song on September 16: * Deluxe Edition (3CD) – Remastered original album plus a third disc of unreleased audio.* Deluxe Edition Vinyl (5LP) – Remastered original album, plus a fifth LP of unreleased audio, on 180-gram vinyl* Digital Download – Remastered album and unreleased audio will both be available.* Super Deluxe Boxed Set (3CD/5LP)– This collection includes: * Remastered album. 2 CDs, each in a replica sleeve.* Unreleased audio on CD in a separate card sleeve.* Remastered album on 180-gram vinyl.* Unreleased audio on 180-gram vinyl.* High-def audio download card of all content at 96kHz/24 bit.* 48-page book filled with photos of the band, the recording locations, BBC memorabilia, and session information.* High-quality print of the original album cover, the first 20,000 of which will be individually numbered.

"BBC Sessions" was originally released in 1997 and has been certified double platinum by the RIAA. "The Complete BBC Sessions" builds on that collection with a third disc that boasts eight unreleased performances. In addition, the set includes extensive session-by-session liner notes written by Dave Lewis. For the first time ever, it provides accurate details and notes about all of the band's BBC sessions. Musical highlights on this new collection include the debut of a long-lost radio session that has achieved near-mythic status among fans. Originally broadcast in April 1969, the session included three songs: "I Can't Quit You Baby", "You Shook Me" and the only recorded performance of "Sunshine Woman", which can be streamed below. Also included are two unreleased versions of both "Communication Breakdown" and "What Is And What Should Never Be". Separated by two years, the performances vividly demonstrate the young band's rapid evolution over a short period of time. Jimmy Page spoke about the band's growth in an interview with Guitar World. "The 'BBC Sessions' show in graphic detail just how organic the group was," he said. "LED ZEPPELIN was a band that would change things around substantially each time it played…We were becoming tighter and tighter, to the point of telepathy." Speaking with Wall Of Sound, John Paul Jones added: "We'd been on the road a lot by the time those sessions were recorded. The albums were always the starting point of the music, and then we'd take it out and expand it on the road. Then we'd come straight off the road into those BBC studios." Recalling the BBC experience in an interview with Mojo, Robert Plant said: "The whole thing was very quaint: the politeness of the audience, the technicians fumbling about, proper hallowed low-key introductions. Like there was some sort of holy moment about to occur." "The Complete BBC Sessions" CD track listing Disc One

01. You Shook Me02. I Can't Quit You Baby03. Communication Breakdown04. Dazed And Confused05. The Girl I Love She Got Long Black Wavy Hair06. What Is And What Should Never Be07. Communication Breakdown08. Travelling Riverside Blues09. Whole Lotta Love10. Somethin' Else11. Communication Breakdown12. I Can't Quit You Baby13. You Shook Me14. How Many More Times Disc Two

01. Immigrant Song02. Heartbreaker03. Since I've Been Loving You04. Black Dog05. Dazed And Confused06. Stairway To Heaven07. Going To California08. That's The Way09. Whole Lotta Love (Medley: Boogie Chillun/Fixin' To Die/That's Alright Mama/A Mess of Blues)10. Thank You Disc Three

01. Communication Breakdown *02. What Is And What Should Never Be *03. Dazed And Confused *04. White Summer05. What Is And What Should Never Be *06. Communication Breakdown *07. I Can't Quit You Baby *08. You Shook Me *09. Sunshine Woman * * Previously Unreleased

GODSMACK frontman Sully Erna has confirmed that the band has officially left its label home of nearly two decades, Republic/Universal, and signed a deal with BMG.

Erna's first release for BMG will be his sophomore solo album, "Hometown Life", which will arrive on Friday, September 30.

In the latest webisode documenting the making of "Hometown Life", Sully explained GODSMACK's decision to change its record company. He said: "It's been a really interesting year so far, too, for me this year. Besides coming out with this new album, there's been a lot of changes I've been making in my life in general, and one of them was departing... After a sixteen-, seventeen-year relationship with Republic/Universal, our contractual obligations were up and we decided to move on and sign with BMG, which has been a real pleasure so far. Because it's coming back to having control as the artist and not being controlled by the record label. Not that we had a bad experience with Republic or Universal — they were great to us; we're still like family, and we really admire and respect those guys for everything they did for us — but, you know, years move on and things change, and so the industry changes, and so our relationship, as artists, to the industry has to change as well. And so it was just time. It was a good opportunity to try something new, and also be in a position of control again of our own music and of our own career."

Erna last year said that a disagreement over the launch of the "Something Different" single from GODSMACK's 2014 album, "1000hp", fractured the band's relationship with its record label beyond repair.

GODSMACK originally wanted "Something Different" to be the lead single from "1000hp" but was talked out of it by Republic/Universal, which convinced the band to go with the title track first, a move that Erna said was a "mistake."

"The label made some big promises to us, that ['Something Different'] was gonna be the big push, so we went with ['1000hp'] first, to just kind of crack it open, and then they just kind of bailed on us on [the 'Something Different'] single," he explained during an appearance on HATEBREED frontman Jamey Jasta's official podcast, "The Jasta Show". "And because of that, we don't think we're gonna be working with the label anymore. I mean, it was a big mistake on their behalf, we believe, and it's a song that I still believe in and it reacts live, and you'll see it every night."

He continued: "It was a big learning lesson for us, because from now on… You know, 'once, shame on you, twice, shame on me' kind of thing. So never again will I allow that to happen. From now on, we're gonna launch [each album] with whatever we feel is the biggest song on the record."

Erna added: "We knew that song should have been the biggest hit on the record. There was something about it; it just felt right. But our mentality at the time was, 'Let's drop ['1000hp']. It kind of tells the story of the history. It's just kind of a straight-up, standard GODSMACK song that at least will kick the door open again. We haven't had a song out in four years. And then, once it settles in a little bit, boom, drop the bomb and hopefully it will explode, right? But I'll never do that again. From now on, they're just gonna get whatever we feel is the best one and we'll work our way through it from there. Because if that song would have hit like we hoped for it to, I really, really think it could have maybe put the band onto another level. It felt like that kind of crossover song. But whatever… Lesson learned."

GODSMACK in October 2015 released a new song called "Inside Yourself" as a free download at the band's official web site.

"1000hp" sold approximately 58,000 copies in its first week of release to land at No. 3 on The Billboard 200 album chart. The disc followed up 2011's "The Oracle", which topped the chart with sales of 117,000 copies in its debut week.

Swedish metallers IN FLAMES will release their twelfth studio album, "Battles", on November 11 via Nuclear Blast in all territories excluding North America and Scandinavia and Eleven Seven Music Group in the U.S. The CD was recorded in Los Angeles with Grammy-nominated producer Howard Benson, who has previously worked with MOTÖRHEAD, BODY COUNT and SEPULTURA, among others.

The official lyric video for the song "The Truth", one of the first two singles from "Battles", can be seen below. Also available is the previously released lyric video for "The End".

IN FLAMES guitarist Björn Gelotte described "The End" as "a fairly straightforward IN FLAMES song. Having said that, it's a really positive vibe [to] the song. It's not a slash-your-wrists kind of vibe; it makes you realize to just make sure you appreciate that moment."

Gelotte also talked about how the recording process for "Battles" compared to that of its predecessor, 2014's "Siren Charms".

"'Siren Charms' had a very dark vibe to it," he explained. "We recorded it at a cold, damp and dark time during the year in Berlin so it gave it a certain melancholy to the record. Now recording in L.A. with the sunshine, it's a different energy. The writing process was different this time, too — that I would like for us to continue to explore. Also, working with Howard and his team was great. I got stressed taking a break for even five minutes because they were always ready to go for the next take and kept my energy up."

"I think being in California really affected this album in the sense that we had a studio in the house that we were staying at and the vibe was really relaxed which lent itself to productivity," added vocalist Anders Fridén. "It really helped having a producer who could make us focus on what we needed to accomplish and keep us on track."

"This was a very new approach for us because we've never let anyone else in the way we did with Howard," said Gelotte.

"Battles" sees the band making the hooks sharper, the riffs tighter and honing the overall attack in a way that parallels their legendary live shows in an unparalleled fashion.

"When people hear this album I think they're going to instantly know that it's the new IN FLAMES without us repeating the same song over and over, and that's something I'm incredibly proud of," Fridén said. He went on to downplay the changes in the band's sound, calling "Battles" "guitar driven, melodic… it's like they know what to expect. It's not like we're coming out with something completely different, but at the same time it's still new. If they already like IN FLAMES, they will like it — and if they don't like IN FLAMES already, they still might like it."

IN FLAMES will release its new concert DVD, "Sounds From The Heart Of Gothenburg", on September 23 via Nuclear Blast. The set was recorded on November 7, 2014 at Scandinavium in Gothenburg, Sweden. IN FLAMES last year inked a new management deal with Tenth Street Entertainment, which also looks after MÖTLEY CRÜE and FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, among others.

The band's last disc, "Siren Charms", sold around 9,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 26 on The Billboard 200 chart.

IN FLAMES drummer Daniel Svensson announced last fall that he was leaving the band to focus on his family life. He said in a statement: "It's hard to leave what have become my second family, but now it's time for me to take care and spend more time with the most important people in my life — my wife and my three daughters."

IN FLAMES has not yet named a replacement for Svensson.

IN FLAMES is:

Anders Fridén - VocalsBjörn Gelotte - GuitarPeter Iwers - BassNiclas Engelin - Guitar

The godfathers of American doom SAINT VITUS will release a new live album, "Live Vol. 2", on September 23 via Season Of Mist. You can now listen to the entire effort below.

"Live Vol. 2" track listing:

01. War Is Our Destiny02. Look Behind You03. Let Them Fall04. The Bleeding Ground05. Patra (Petra)06. The Troll07. The Waste Of Time08. White Stallions09. Thirsty And Miserable10. Dying Inside11. Born Too Late

You can pre-order "Live Vol. 2" at this location.

From the very first guitar chords, that unmistakable frying, sizzling, and wailing signature sound of Dave Chandler as well as the trademark deeply resonant vocals of Scott "Wino" Weinrich, any adherent of classic doom metal will immediately know: this is SAINT VITUS.

Despite having been around for more than 35 years, the American heavy legends are only now getting ready to release their second official live album after the 1990 seminal "Live" record.

SAINT VITUS taped "Live Vol. 2" during the tour for their acclaimed comeback album, "Lillie: F-65" (2012), on March 19, 2013 at the Kulturfabrik in Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg. The album and tour marked the return of Weinrich. Out of respect for their vintage heritage, SAINT VITUS chose to preserve the raw and pure live sound without cleaning up and patching with overdubs. As a result, "Live Vol. 2" is a true live document.

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

"Live Vol. 2" will also be released as a special digipak edition containing a digisleeve as well as a triple gatefold vinyl, which are both strictly limited and will contain "Marbles In The Moshpit". This live recording from Ontario, Canada in December 1984 was previously available as a bootleg and on limited vinyl, and features the lineup Dave Chandler, Mark Adams, original singer Scott Reagers, and late drummer Armando Acosta, who sadly passed away in 2000.

"Live Vol. 2" recording lineup:

Dave Chandler: guitarScott "Wino" Weinrich: vocalsMark Adams: bassHenry Vasquez: drums

"Eye Of Chaos", the new video from ONCE HUMAN, the band featuring former MACHINE HEAD and SOULFLY guitarist Logan Mader, can be seen below. The song is taken from ONCE HUMAN's upcoming album, "Evolution", which will be released on January 20, 2017 via earMUSIC/eOne.

"Evolution" is not just the title of ONCE HUMAN's sophomore release, it's an armor-plated declaration. Having made waves with their 2015 debut, "The Life I Remember", the band have dramatically progressed beyond the melodic death metal sound of that release into something more complex, emotional, distinct, and devastatingly heavy.

"Having been focused on recording, producing and developing bands, I had not picked up the guitar out of passion for twelve years but as soon as I started writing with Lauren [Hart, vocals], I fell in love with what we were making, and I wanted to play in the band and get back on stage," states Mader, whose name will be familiar to metalheads not only for his production and/or mixing work on records from the likes of GOJIRA, FEAR FACTORY and DEVILDRIVER, but also as the original guitarist in MACHINE HEAD, and his late-'90s stint in SOULFLY.

"Our first record was getting the ball rolling, but now it's as if we're a totally different band. We really found our sound and our identity, it's quite unique and I think what we're doing is really on fire."

Armed with this track and the eight others comprising "Evolution", ONCE HUMAN intend to build on the groundwork laid down by the two tours they did in support of their debut, and make it damn clear that this is a band to be taken seriously.

"It's only been a little more than a year since we put out our first record, but we were so driven by the new sound that we forged that we needed to get back into the studio and capture it," Mader explains. "It was also important to prove to people that this is a real band. It's not just a project I felt like doing on a whim, this is a band that's going to have a full career, and now we're really getting started."

Northern Irish rockers THE ANSWER will release their new album, "Solas", on October 28 via Napalm. The CD was produced by Andy Bradfield and Avril Mackintosh, who previously worked with THE ANSWER on their 2006 album "Rise". "Solas", which is the Gaelic (Irish language) word for "light," is also the title of the lead track on the new album. It can now be streamed below.

A decade into the band's career, "Solas" marks a significant turning point for THE ANSWER and, in particular, lead singer Cormac Neeson. After their 2015 U.S. "Raise A Little Hell" tour, the band returned to a scene of utter emotional and financial chaos with matters escalating further for Neeson, when his newly born son, Dabhog, arrived into the world three months premature with multiple health issues. After four months of fighting for his life in a nightmarish world of ventilators, blood transfusions and an enveloping fear of the unknown, it was time for THE ANSWER to return yielding a newfound strength. For this they turned inwards to their culture, and their deep-rooted sense of "Irishness."

"I look back at that time of my life as a darkness I didn't know existed," Neeson says. "It felt like all the lights in the world had been dimmed and weren't ever coming back up again. I emerged from that whole experience a different man. The world was never going to look the same again but at least I could start to think about stuff I hadn't thought about in a while. 'Solas' arrived at just the right time for me because I felt strongly that I had a lot to say and to get off my chest."

A testament to personal resolve and dogged determination, the band bunkered down in their home rehearsal room converting it into a self-contained recording set up and shut themselves away from the world to create "Solas". Guitarist Paul Mahon became the default engineer, arranger and guiding light that would help navigate the evolving creativity and newfound freedom, delivering updates and files from the bunker over to London-based producers Andy Bradfield and Avril Mackintosh.

"We initially sat there looking blankly at each other. It became apparent that we would have to approach writing in a completely different way. It was certainly disconcerting to move away from our traditional approach but we had to embrace a new process," Paul recalls. "We didn't want to limit ourselves and as well as exploring our Celtic roots wanted to explore roots music in a broader sense. There may have been some conscious resistance at first but it felt we were being guided down a much more atmospheric, surreal and cinematic path and I think that is reflected in the final album."

"Solas" is a varied body of work encompassing elements of their Celtic heritage as well as their renowned trademark guitar attack. Rooted in bassist Micky Waters' love of Irish harmony, the combination of mandolins and Celtic choral arrangements suspend time on the harmonious "Thief Of Light" while "In This Land" summons an epic resolve and demonstrates an atmospheric turning point in the band's sound.

Not turning their back on their blues-filled rock anthems, "Demon Driven Man" is perfect rock'n'roll fare, grounded as ever by drummer James Heatley's remorseless beat, but it is the epic "Battle Cry (Seo An La Mo Laoch Mo Ghra)", a six-minute call to arms featuring elements of Celtic music, a Gaelic vocal chant, windswept rock and even thunderous Samba rhythms, which best epitomizes the old and new of THE ANSWER.

Having gone back to their roots and rediscovered their inner selves, "Solas" is an honest and brave album that panders to no label, to no media framework and to no rules. It is dark, occasionally menacing and at certain moments, joyous and uplifting. It is a record that bears the scars and soul of four talented men from Northern Ireland; sometimes troubled but seeking creative liberation.

The symbol that sits on the front cover, the ancient Celtic sign for "illumination," bears witness to this 2016 musical evolution. THE ANSWER are firmly embarked upon a new journey having been through the darkest period in their relatively brief rock history.

THE ANSWER consists of Cormac Neeson (vocals), Paul Mahon (guitar), Michael Waters (bass) and James Heatley (drums).

MEGADETH mainman Dave Mustaine took to Periscope on Monday, September 12 to give fans a closer look at his farm in Franklin, Tennessee, including his horses Gerrit and Rocky and dog Gunnar. Check out the 13-minute clip below.

Mustaine told Rolling Stone India in an interview last year that his family's move to Nashville was prompted largely by his daughter's decision to launch a country music career. He said: "The reason we moved out here was because I've made four records out here and all those times I was recording, I did live here. It really was comfortable to be here. The last time we were here, Electra was only two years old. We didn't know that she had the gift and once she started singing — I heard her sing one time and I was really convinced."

He continued: "I don't profess to be a singer first and foremost — I'm a guitar player that sings more than a singer who plays guitar. But with her, she really is. That's her strong point. For her, this is music city. It's all about country. It's where she's flourishing."

Mustaine added: "I could do my job from anywhere — MEGADETH is that successful. I can do stuff on the Net from a desert island if I wanted to. But I think for her, to be here right now and work with other songwriters builds her name. She just goes in and meets people and doesn't tell them who her dad is. [Laughs]"

Mustaine and his family moved to Tennessee in October 2014 after living in Fallbrook, California for many years.

MEGADETH tour with AMON AMARTH, SUICIDAL TENDENCIES and METAL CHURCH kicks off on September 20 in Casper, Wyoming and runs through October 15 in Camden, New Jersey.

"At The Edge Of The World", the new video from MESHIAAK, can be seen below. The song is taken from the band's debut album, "Alliance Of Thieves", which was released on August 19 via Mascot. The CD was recorded at GREEN DAY's Jingletown Recording Studios in Oakland, California.

Based in Melbourne, Australia, MESHIAAK features veteran extreme metal drummer Jon Dette, who has played with SLAYER, ANTHRAX, TESTAMENT and ICED EARTH, alongside TERAMAZE guitarist Dean Wells, former 4ARM frontman Danny Tomb and bassist Nick Walker.

Wells says: "We went with keeping the sound as band-orientated and organic as possible, but with using a lot of modern technology.

"It's a blend of old and new because we recorded to two-inch tape for the drums through an old Neve desk, but the rest of the album was produced in my home studio.

"We also went with a mixer named Jacob Hansen who is known for a lot more progressive music. But I think the combination really gives MESHIAAK a new and fresher sound than most traditional thrash albums.

"And so we've tried to create something fresh among the guidelines of traditional metal and thrash with some progressive elements, although at the same time we wanted to make music feel like when we first discovered bands like MEGADETH, METALLICA, MACHINE HEAD... even ALICE IN CHAINS and SLIPKNOT."

Wells adds that the progressive overtones in MESHIAAK's music come largely from his interest in other musical genres not typically associated with an extreme metal band. He says: "I have a lot of influences outside the metal world such as TOOL and DREAM THEATER, and a lot of guitar instrumentalists as well like Guthrie Govan and Joe Satriani.

"At times, I had to be brought back into line to keep things metal and exciting. I think that's what makes MESHIAAK unique — the melting pot of influences we have. Perfect soundtrack for punch-ups with your mates."

"Alliance Of Thieves" track listing:

01. Chronicles Of The Dead02. It Burns At Both Ends03. I Am Among You04. Drowning, Fading, Falling05. At The Edge Of The World06. Last Breath Taken07. Maniacal08. Alliance Of Thieves09. Death Of An Anthem

French heavy metal pioneers NIGHTMARE with brand new line-up will release their new album, „Dead Sun“ on November 25th via AFM Records.World Premiere of the new video clip + digital single „Ikarus“ will be on Friday, September 23rd at 12:00pm CET.
The album has been arranged in France by the band’s long time friend and producer Patrick Liotard together with Joost Van Den Broek (The Gentle Storm, Epica), produced and mixed by Joost Van Der Broek at Sandlane Studios in The Netherlands, and recorded at Noise Factory Studio in Belgium with Gerald Jans behind the desk.

Cover artwork of „Dead Sun“ was created by Julien Spreutels (Epysode).

„Dead Sun“ track list:

01. Infected
02. Of Sleepless mind
03. Tangled In The Roots
04. Red Marble & Gold
05. Ikarus
06. Indifference
07. Dead Sun
08. Seeds Of Agony
09. Inner Sanctum
10. Serpentine
11. Starry Skies Gone Black

The new NIGHTMARE band made its live debut with new singer Maggy Luyten and new drummer Olivier Casula on June 19th 2016 at Hellfest in France, on July 29th at Metaldays in Slovenia and on August 19th at the Sabaton Open Air in Sweden. Next show will be at FEMME Metal Female Event on Sunday September 25th in Eindhoven (The Netherlands).

To celebrate the album release, the band will be preparing a special night and "release party show" in their hometown of Grenoble (France) at La Belle Electrique on November 25th 2016.

NIGHTMARE new line-up is:

Maggy Luyten - Vocals
Yves Campion - Bass & Vocals
Franck Milleliri - Guitar
Matt Asselberghs - Guitar & Vocals
Olivier Casula – Drums

Long-running Swedish death metallers DERANGED will release "Struck By A Murderous Siege", their ninth full-length album and first for Agonia Records, on October 28. The follow-up to 2011's "Cut Carve Rip Serve" was recorded at Berno Studio (AMON AMARTH, THE CROWN, WITCHERY) in Malmö, Sweden. The album's cover artwork is a visual depiction of its title, and it was created by Mike Hrubovcak (GRAVE, SIX FEET UNDER, SINISTER).

One of the new songs, "Reverent Decomposition", can be streamed below.

Despite DERANGED's roots, their sound is more associated with American death metal rather than the early '90s Swedish death metal scene they originated from, and can be described as technical and brutal death/grind with several groove influences.

Guitarist/main songwriter Thomas Ahlgren commented on the album: "The new DERANGED album, titled 'Struck By A Murderous Siege', is a blend of classical DERANGED brutality with a bit of new elements that will fit perfectly both old and new DERANGED fans. You can be sure about that! The album, consisting of five fast, grinding and shredding songs and three heavy mid-tempo tunes, will give the listener the most interesting and varied DERANGED album so far. Prepare to hear the echoes of serial killers and brutality!"

"Struck By A Murderous Siege" track listing:

01. The Frail Illusion Of Osteology02. Hello From The Gutters03. Reverent Decomposition 04. Shivers Down Your Broken Spine05. Cold Icy Hands06. Struck By A Murderous Siege07. Toy Box Torture Chamber08. Undead Instrument By Grim Ascendancy

DERANGED was formed in 1991 by a couple of bored teens in the southern parts of Sweden who basically wanted to do something in their spare time. Inspired by the bloodiest and most violent bands of the period, like early CARCASS, NAPALM DEATH, IMPETIGO, SUFFOCATION, and even bloodier horror movies, they started to grind. The early fascination proved to be a particularly long-lasting and fruitful one, with a short break between 2007 and 2009.

DERANGED is led by drummer and founder Rikard Wermén, who's the band's mastermind and sole remaining member from the original 1991 lineup.

RUNAWAYS icon Cherie Currie says she will this month release an all-star album — shelved for the last five years — featuring Slash, Duff McKagan, Billy Corgan, Juliette Lewis, Brody Dalle and more.

Currie, 56, revealed details of the Blackhearts Records release on the latest episode of the "White Line Fever" podcast, saying: "Matt Sorum was playing with me — of course you know him from GUNS N' ROSES and VELVET REVOLVER and he was just amazing. He and I made a record together with a bunch of cool stars. In fact, [Australian indie-pop duo] the VERONICAS, as well, they sang on a few songs. What great gals they are. Billy Corgan from SMASHING PUMPKINS wrote a duet, and, of course, Slash and Duff were on it as well as Juliette Lewis. That album's coming out of September.

"All these wonderful artists — Brody Dalle as well — really wanted to participate in this record. Little did I know how much THE RUNAWAYS had influenced so many people. It made me feel so good.

"But that record was shelved for five years.

"They (Blackheart Records) wanted to put it out now. I negotiated with them instead of through my lawyer who I had to let go — two lawyers actually.

"It will be coming out in September. I never thought it would see the light of day."

Currie's first solo album in 35 years, "Reverie", was released last year. The follow-up to the unreleased album produced by Sorum includes four songs co-produced by THE RUNAWAYS' controversial late svengali Kim Fowley (who spent the last nine days of his life living in Currie's house in 2015) and covers of two RUNAWAYS songs — "Is It Day or Night" and "American Nights" — featuring vocals by Cherie's former RUNAWAYS bandmate Lita Ford.

The Appice brothers, Carmine and Vinny, are two of rock's most legendary drummers. Individually, they have conquered the rock world for decades and now, for the first time, they are joining forces to record a studio album that will feature new songs as well as classic songs from their individual histories.

The brothers, who have worked with artists such as BLACK SABBATH, DIO, Ozzy Osbourne, Rod Stewart, BLUE MURDER and more, chose to work with PledgeMusic because they are the frontrunner for direct-to-fan platforms, and they want to bring their fans into this project on a personal level.

"This is very exciting for us!" they said. "We are reaching out to you, our fans, to help us get this album recorded. As Ringo said, 'We'll get by with a little help from our friends.' This will be a great sounding, spine-shaking, rhythmic foundation with giant melodic guitars and blazing vocals and melodies that will tear it all up!"

Carmine Appice has enjoyed an amazing almost 50-year career as a rock star, music educator, author, and rock pioneer. He is widely considered to be one of the most accomplished showmen in rock. Carmine is the recipient of numerous awards including Modern Drummer Hall Of Fame, Hollywood Rockwalk, and dozens of gold- and platinum-selling records. He co-wrote such monster selling hits as "Do Ya Think I'm Sexy" and "Young Turks". He has broken new ground in every aspect of his career — as a performer, as a teacher, and as a writer, he continues to inspire drummers and listeners throughout the world with his originality and his unwavering dedication to the art of drumming. In May 2016, Carmine released his autobiography, "Stick It!: My Life Of Sex, Drums And Rock 'N' Roll" (Chicago Review Press). Vinny Appice's unique, powerful drumming is marked not by his performances with a single group, but by his flawless musical contributions and drumming to an extensive list of rock and roll icons like BLACK SABBATH, DIO, HEAVEN & HELL, Rick Derringer, John Lennon and more! A consummate performer and drummer, Vinny is also a brilliant clinician, performing clinics and master classes all across the globe, as well as making appearances in films and television. Vinny can be heard on rock classic albums like BLACK SABBATH's "Mob Rules" and DIO's "Holy Diver" and "The Last in Line".

The Appice brothers have some very special offerings for those that pre-order the record. "We have put together a great list of items from the making of the album itself, to drum related items and a lot more things!" they said. "We are looking forward to completing a killer album for you and we thank you all for your continued support!" With every pre-order of the record, fans receive the AccessPass, which will give them instant access to exclusive updates and content such as behind-the-scenes videos and pictures of the recording process, first listens to songs and more. Pledgers will also have the opportunity to pledge on some exclusive items and experiences, such as: New album download on FLAC and MP3 The new CD signed by both brothers; a T-shirt with an exclusive design, only available to pledgers; A bundle with the new CD signed by Vinny and Carmine and a T-shirt with an exclusive design, only available to pledgers; The Instructional Drummer Bundle which includes the following signed items: A copy of the "Ultimate Realistic Rock" and "Rudiments Of Rock" books by Carmine Appice, "Hard Rock Techniques" DVD by Vinny Appice and the new CD; a copy of Carmine's autobiography "Stick It", signed by both brothers; your name in the liner notes and a signed CD; a pair of drumsticks, with Carmine and Vinny each signing a stick; a cymbal, signed by both brothers and used during the recording of the album; dinner with Carmine in New York City (travel and accommodations not included); dinner with Vinny in Southern California (travel and accommodations not included); a limited-edition drum head, signed by Carmine and Vinny and exclusive only to pledgers; your choice of gold record from the Appice brothers' archive, personally signed with your name on it (see campaign page for choice of records); a drum lesson with Carmine in New York City (travel and accommodations not included); a drum lesson with Vinny in Southern California (travel and accommodations not included). Fans can also pledge on a day in the studio with Vinny and Carmine and see firsthand the drumming due, recording in real time. To pre-order the record, go to PledgeMusic.com.

In a brand new interview with Gearphoria.com, EXTREME guitarist Nuno Bettencourt spoke about the progress of the writing and recording sessions for the follow-up to the band's 2008 album, "Saudades de Rock". He said: "We're about 17 songs into it. We're just wrapping them up. We've got to do vocals, some guitar. Slowly but surely. We're going to release it early next year. Whether that's February or early spring, but definitely not past the spring. This thing is coming out, even if I've got to leak this fucking thing out. We've been recording mostly at my home studio. The guys have been coming out periodically."

Bettencourt also spoke in more detail about the recording process and the gear that he is using during the studio sessions for the new EXTREME album. He said: "I'm trying to incorporate this [signature guitar] N7 that I have — the seven-string. I struggle enough with six strings, but I'm trying to get some different sounds going. In a way, I'm also trying to go back a bit, simplify stuff. I'm not trying to do an album of the past, but I want it to be rock and roll, you know? I think that is what we need more than anything is to get some raw rock and roll out there."

EXTREME's first studio album in thirteen years, "Saudades de Rock" (pronounced "sow-dodge") was released in August 2008 on Open E Records and distributed by Fontana. The European version of the CD included a bonus track, the "Americocaine" demo from 1985, the very first studio recording of EXTREME.

2015 marked the 25th anniversary of EXTREME's classic album "Pornograffitti", the definitive album of the band's career. To mark the anniversary, "Pornograffitti Live 25 / Metal Meltdown" will be released September 23 by the award-winning production company Rock Fuel Media in association with Loud & Proud Records as part of their four-part "Metal Meltdown" DVD series. The concert film captures the Boston band performing "Pornograffitti" in its entirety.

EXTREME released a live CD and DVD, "Take Us Alive", in May 2010 in the U.S. via Frontiers Records. This performance was recorded in August 2009 in EXTREME's hometown of Boston.

FEAR FACTORY guitarist Dino Cazares celebrated his 50th birthday by playing two shows with his long-running ASESINO project earlier this month.

Multi-camera footage of ASESINO's entire September 10 concert at Whisky A Go Go in West Hollywood, California can be seen below.

ASESINO is the death metal/grindcore project featuring Cazares and FEAR FACTORY/ex-STATIC-X bassist Tony Campos (on bass/vocals).

ASESINO is reportedly working on material for its long-awaited third album, tentatively due next year.

In a 2011 interview with Noisecreep, Cazares stated about ASESINO's planned follow-up to 2006's "Cristo Satanico": "On the first record [2002's 'Corridos de Muerte'], it's an introduction to who Asesino [official character based on an actual person, who was an assassin for a certain mafia] is. It introduces what his job is — to kill. At the end of the album, he gets caught, gets sentenced to death on the electric chair. He dies and goes to hell. Unfortunately, the way he dies was a priest was frightened by what he said on the electric chair. The priest pulled the lever on the assassin. He goes to hell and strikes a deal with the devil. The devil says, 'I will grant you life on Earth but you have to carry out this one task for me.' Asesino says, 'No problem.'

"So, on the second album, 'Cristo Satanico', which means 'Satanic Christ,' Asesino comes back to Earth, since Lucifer granted him life on Earth if he carries out this one task. He had to go out and kill somebody. No problem. But also Asesino had revenge that he wanted to seek on the priest who killed him. He found out that his boss, a person he was killing for, was the person who set him up, got him in prison, and got him into the death sentence in the first place. So he had two people he wanted to go kill. That was his boss and the priest. Obviously when an assassin is going to kill somebody, he investigates where they go, where they work, what time they go to bed, what time they shit... he knows everything about the person before he kills them. So he's investigating the priest, he finds out the priest is a pedophile. He likes to fuck little boys. He's been taking money from the community. He's been living very lavishly, very rich and wealthy. All of the money has been coming from the church and from the people. He's also been molesting little boys and raping them.

"So Asesino goes and captures the priest, tortures him and makes him admit to everything he's doing wrong. He tortures him and buries him alive, so he could suffer down there for all the suffering he's caused. At the end of the album, he confronts his boss and has his boss on his knees, saying 'I know why you set me up.' His boss was jealous of the assassin because he was gaining respect amongst the mafia, more than his boss. He ended up cutting his head off with a machete.

"On the new album, the reason we are calling it 'The Second Coming' is because when he buried the priest alive, the priest gets out. He gets out of the grave that he buried him in. The priest is resurrected in a way. So it's going to be a battle of evil [against] evil... A battle between Asesino and the priest."

ProgPower USA 2017 will take place in Atlanta, GA on September 8th and 9th. Drum legend Mike Portnoy (The Winery Dogs, Flying Colors, ex-Dream Theater) will headline the event under the moniker Mike Portnoy's Shattered Fortress, playing his "12 Step Suite". The music documents the musician's battle with alcoholism, and is an ensemble of five songs recorded by Dream Theater from 2002 to 2009, with titles that reflect his struggles: "The Glass Prison”, "This Dying Soul”, "The Root Of All Evil”, “Repentance" and "The Shattered Fortress”.

Portnoy has checked in with the following update:

"Very excited to see all of the great feedback upon the announcement of my Shattered Fortress appearance at Prog Power 2017! To answer a few questions I've been seeing:

• This is not 'a new band or project', it is 'an event' that will be making several select live appearances in select markets throughout 2017.

• The lineup of musicians joining me for these shows will not be announced prior to our live debut at my 50th Birthday Concert on Cruise To The Edge...
I want that to remain a surprise until our unveiling.

• The setlist at these shows will be comprised of the 12 Step Suite and (time permitting at certain shows) other Dream Theater songs that I've written the lyrics to.

Keep in mind, I have no plans (or interest) in revisiting DT material in any of my other "real" bands. This is not an ongoing project or career move, this is merely a unique event that I am doing in select markets in 2017 to share with fans around the world...so catch it while you can!"

The ProgPower 2017 line-up is as follows:

Friday, September 8th, 2017
Sunburst (Greece)
Distorted Harmony (Israel)
Lords Of Black (Spain) 
Angel Dust (Germany) **US Exclusive**
Myrath (Tunisia)
Mike Portnoy's Shattered Fortress (USA)

Saturday, September 9th, 2017
Teramaze (Australia)
Dynazty (Sweden)
Snowy Shaw (Sweden)
Pain (Sweden)
Amaranthe (Sweden)
Katatonia (Sweden)

Tickets go on sale Saturday, October 1st at 10:00am EST.

Prog-rock fans are in for a treat on this February's Cruise To The Edge music vacation: iconic drummer and former member of Dream Theater, Mike Portnoy will - for the first time ever - perform the band's "12 Step Suite" in its entirety on the cruise.

Portnoy, who is also celebrating his 50th birthday on Cruise To The Edge with an all-star career retrospective concert, says: "When I came up with the idea of writing a multi-part suite that spanned 5 DT albums, (which ended up taking 8 years to complete), it was always part of my master plan to perform it in its entirely, live on stage. Unfortunately, after completing the final piece of my conceptual puzzle, I was never able to perform this creation with Dream Theater. Now I've decided that I owe it to the fans to finally bring my “12 Step Suite” to life on stage as I always had dreamed. Cruise To The Edge passengers will be the first to ever see this performed live! Joining me for this very special performance will be some great friends and amazing musicians, (yes, it's a surprise,) that I know will kick ass in helping me with my unfinished business of bringing this piece of music to life on stage!"

Sailing out of Tampa, FL February 7th, 2017, Cruise To The Edge hits Cozumel, Mexico with a who's-who of prog-rock prodigies. Headliners YES, Kansas, Steve Hackett and John Wetton join Portnoy on the deluxe music vacation package. Over a dozen other bands are slated to perform.

Other esteemed performers confirmed include: Patrick Moraz, Bad Dreams, Neal Morse Band, IO Earth, Spock's Beard, Alex Machacek, Änglagrd, Stick Men, Haken, Pain of Salvation, Curved Air, Electric Asturias, District 97, Scott Henderson and Focus, with more bands to be announced. In addition, famous YES album design artist Roger Dean will be aboard to talk about the back story of his unique designs and the cruise will be hosted by UK journalist and preeminent YES expert, Jon Kirkman. Watch the 2017 CTTE lineup reveal video below:

Beyond the once-in-a-lifetime intimate music experiences with iconic artists, the guests will get to partake in a wide array of activities. Beyond the sun, fun and exquisite dining, there will be Artist/Cruiser Photo Experience, Q&A Sessions, Late-Night Surprise Performances and more. This year will also feature the unprecedented CTTE Late Night Live, where fans can sign up to showcase their own musical talents in four different performance scenarios: Late Night Live Pro Jam, where you could be invited to play with a with a headline act; Artist's Choice, featuring fans and Prog legends performing together; The Main Event, where it's your choice to shine with fellow Late Night Live musicians and Overtime Jam, where a song of your choosing could be featured in a late-night jam.

Cabins are still available aboard the full-charter cruise starting at $999 per person (double occupancy). Children 11 and under at the time of sailing are free when sharing a cabin with 2 full fare paying adults. Government fees, taxes, and gratuities are mandatory for all passengers regardless of age. For booking and more info, visit CruiseToTheEdge.com.

DEAD CROSS, the new "punk" outfit featuring former SLAYER and PHILM drummer Dave Lombardo alongside members of THE LOCUST and RETOX, has parted ways with singer Gabe Serbian. A replacement frontman has already been found and is currently re-recording vocals on the group's debut album, to be released early next year via an as-yet-undisclosed record label.

During an appearance on the "Everything Went Black Podcast", DEAD CROSS bassist Justin Pearson stated about the band's formation: "It's been strange. We had shows booked and shit before we even had a song written, so it was a weird sort of scenario that we started. And we went in, like, headfirst and wrote a set and played a bunch of shows and then immediately went to record an album. And we were almost done, but our singer left the band — we have a new singer — so we're re-recording vocals."

Asked to divulge the identity of the new DEAD CROSS vocalist, Pearson said: "I'm not allowed to say yet. I wanna say. I've told people, but they're, like… He's kind of an established singer, and they need an official announcement or something… Let's just say it's, like, a good friend of all of ours, so it'll be rad once it happens. I mean, he's already recording and we have a label and stuff like that now."

DEAD CROSS's debut album is being helmed by producer Ross Robinson, who has previously worked with KORN, DEFTONES, SEPULTURA and LIMP BIZKIT, among others.

Fan-filmed video footage of DEAD CROSS's May 9 performance at The Troubadour in West Hollywood, California as the support act for NAPALM DEATH and MELVINS can be seen below.

Lombardo recently told Madcap Music Review about the source of the searing anger and rage that is fueling the aggression of his new band. He said: "Ever since the tragedy in Paris [that took place last November]; that's why I'm fucking pissed. Because everything hit really close to home. I could have been on that stage [at the Bataclan venue in Paris where EAGLES OF DEATH METAL performed]. I could have been at a festival and some fucking son of a bitch comes in with a shotgun or whatever and starts [blowing] people's heads off. So I'm just… I'm angry. I'm over it, but, you know, with the new releasing some aggressive music, [we're able to] get all the feelings out, get all the shit that we wanna say out in this music. It's not gonna come out playing alternative music, it's not gonna come out playing soft. And my name and my drumming is synonymous with thrash and hardcore music, so I'm really excited about this."

Megadeth frontman / founder Dave Mustaine is turning 55 this year and celebrating with the launch of his own beer, À Tout Le Monde, in partnership with the world class Craft Brewery, Unibroue. The brewery has checked in with an update:

"Exciting news! Our brewmaster Jerry Vietz started bottling À Tout le Monde Ale for the first time today and the precious liquid will now be stored in warm room for refermentation. We are getting closer to sharing this new beer with Dave Mustaine and all Unibroue and Megadeth fans waiting for the launch. Stay tuned, more information will soon be revealed."

Unibroue is among the most highly awarded breweries in North America. Its beers have earned over 296 international medals to date. Get ready for À Tout Le Monde, a Belgian style Saison Ale made in Quebec and coming soon to a location near you. Learn more about this brand new adventure launching in the coming weeks. Subscribe for details at MegadethBeer.com. Check out the trailer below.

Megadeth guitarist Kiko Loureiro has uploaded more video footage from the band's recent stop in Turkey.

“Another day on tour with Megadeth,” he remarks. “Do you wanna know what was going on in our trip to Turkey? Here are some snapshots of life on the road, of what it's like living the dream of playing around the globe in a legendary band with great people and killer musicians. Not only I have the chance to play in amazing cities, but also something we have the time to visit, enjoy and learn a lot about other cultures. Isn't it the perfect job?”

Part I:

AEROSMITH drummer Joey Kramer has told Rolling Stone magazine that the band's immediate future is uncertain, despite singer Steven Tyler's previous claim that the group would embark on a "farewell" tour in 2017.

Kramer in 2014 underwent a "minor medical procedure" to remove blockage from inside a coronary artery, forcing him to sit out two of the band's concerts and be temporarily replaced by his son Jesse.

The musician, who had no history of a heart condition prior to the August 2014 medical scare, now says: "It surprised the shit out of me when it happened. I exercise every day, I'm conscientious about my health. I thought it was heartburn or indigestion.

"We're not 25-year-olds anymore — we can't play as many shows as we used to. Steven can't sing two nights in a row or three to four nights a week — it's physically impossible. So it becomes a question of going out [on tour] less than we used to, or not doing it at all.

"AEROSMITH is all of our first loves, but I also don't know many other people who have consistently done the same job for 45 years. As we're getting older, we've been kicking the idea [to end the band], but a final decision hasn't been made."

Kramer's comments echo those made by AEROSMITH guitarist Joe Perry, who told Rolling Stone earlier in the year: "A farewell tour is something we've talked about doing for years, let's say roughly in the last five years. It's just something the band's talked about at various times. At this point, the five of us have never sat down and said, 'It's time to do it.' So 'considering' is an appropriate word for that statement. A farewell tour is definitely not confirmed."

Perry added that although AEROSMITH splitting isn't something he's looking forward to, he feels that the band is nearing the end. "It's getting to be about that time," he said.

UK rockers Thirsty, featuring Guy Bailey (founder of English rock band The Quireboys) and Russian poet, Irina D will release their second album Albatross on November 7th via Thristy Music. The new album derives its name from the leadoff single and is entitled “Albatross”.

It's “steady as she goes” for the sophomore album, as Thirsty develop their winning formula. Once again, Thirsty rely on legendary Rolling Stones producer Chris Kimsey for production, mixing, mastering and all round inspiration. The creative impetus for the album is once again the songwriting collaboration between Bailey and Russian poet Irina D.

As was the case for the debut album self-titled debut album, Guy Bailey himself sings lead vocals and plays all guitars on Albatross – whilst the lineup of the band is completed with drums/percussion from Simon Hanson of Squeeze and bass/keys from former Quireboys member Chris Johnstone. And, just as before, the album features guest backing vocals from rock/soul diva Lynne Jackaman (Jackaman; Saint Jude).

Thirsty firmly believe in the enduring immediacy of the three-minute formula. The pop/rock art form defined by the 45 RPM single format which required records no more than 3 minutes long. The finest examples built on an original mix of deceptively simple lyrics and powerful rhythmic accompaniment to create a striking new art form which transformed popular culture. The pop song format was transformed by The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. And the potential of the disposable pop/rock song was further expanded by Andy Warhol; The Velvet Underground; Lou Reed; Bowie; Dylan and Pink Floyd. As with many of the best art forms, Thirsty believe that working within the disciplines of a simple but strict structure is not limiting but provides the best artists with the opportunity to be most creative. Less is more.

Tracklisting:

“The Albatross”
“Chaos”
“Orlando”
“Say It Ain’t So Joe”
“Black Hole”
“Beat Of Her Heart”
“Va Banque”
“Shore Of Light”
“Parliament Of Fools”
“Cosmic Aphrodite”
“Patriotic Little Trash”

On September 10th, Canadian thrash legends Annihilator performed in Toronto, Ontario for the first time in 23 years at the Opera House. Fan-filmed video from the show is available below, including footage of Sludgehammer's Dan Ayers taking on lead vocal for "Alison Hell".

"Suicide Society"
"King of the Kill"
"Creepin' Again"
"No Way Out"
"Set the World on Fire"
"W.T.Y.D."
"Never, Neverland"
"Stonewall"
"Bliss"
"Second to None"
"Refresh the Demon"
- drum solo -
"Ultraparanoia"
"Phantasmagoria"
"Alison Hell"
"Human Insecticide"

Photo by Betty Dworatschek

Motograter are gearing up for the release of their sophomore album, Desolation. The band has released a new lyric video for the song “Parasite”, produced by Brian Cox of Flarelight Films (Gemini Syndrome / Hollywood Undead). “Parasite” also features  guest keys and samples from Justin Fowler of American Head Charge.

Desolation was produced by Ahrue Luster (Ill Nino, Machine Head) and mixed by Joshua Wickman (Within The Ruins, KING 810). The album was engineered by Luster, Wickman, and Jon Berrier and was recorded at Illustrious Productions, Dreadcore Productions, and Blackplate Productions. Pre-order the album now via Pledge Music.

The artwork was provided by Sam Shearon, who has created covers for comic books and graphic novels including Clive Barker’s Hellraiser, Judge Dredd, The X-Files, Mars Attacks, KISS, and Clive Barker’s Books of Blood and album sleeve artwork and merchandise designs for some of the biggest names in rock music, such as Godhead, Ministry, Rob Zombie, Iron Maiden, Powerman 5000, Biohazard, American Head Charge, Rammstein, Fear Factory and Kill Devil Hill.

This marks the band’s first full-length album since the 2003 Elektra / No Name self-titled release featuring Ivan Moody (Five Finger Death Punch) on vocals. Now fronting the band is James Anthony Legion (Deadform / The Breathing Process).

In live news, Motograter is set to embark on a North American Tour with Dope and Flaw, beginning September 13th; confirmed dates are as listed:

September
13 - DNA Lounge - San Francisco, CA
14 - Hawthorne Theatre - Portland, OR
16 - The Big Dipper - Spokane, WA
17 - Studio Seven - Seattle, WA
19 - The Falls Venue - Idaho Falls, ID
20 - Herman’s Hideaway - Denver, CO
21 - Sunshine Studios Live - Colorado Springs, CO
22 - Sokol Underground - Omaha, NE
23 - The Firebird - St Louis, MO
24 - The Cabooze, Minneapolis, MN
25 - Lefty’s - Des Moines, IA
26 - BIGS Sports Bar & Billiards - Sioux Falls, SD
27 - The Reverb - Waterloo, IA
28 - Live On Main - Stevens Point, WI
29 - Every Buddy’s - Chippewa Falls, WI
30 - Music Factory - Battle Creek, MI

October
1 - The Machine Shop - Flint, MI
3 - Realm - Toledo, OH
4 - Concord Music Hall - Chicago, IL
5 - The Agora - Cleveland, OH
6 - Park Street Saloon - Columbus, OH
7 - Chameleon Club - Lancaster, PA
8 - Sherman Theater - Stroudsburg, PA
9 - Montage Music Hall - Rochester, NY
13 - Revolution - Amityville, NY
15 - Fish Head Cantina - Baltimore, MD
16 - Rock Shop Music Hall - Fayetteville, NC
17 - Masquerade - Atlanta, GA
18 - The Center Stage - Lake Charles, LA
19 - Dirty Dog Bar - Austin, TX
20 - Scout Bar - Houston, TX
21 - Tree’s - Dallas, TX
22 - Aftershock - Shawnee, KS
23 - 89th St Collective - Oklahoma City, OK
24 - Backstage - Lubbock, TX
25 - The Juggernaut - Gallup, NM
26 - Phoenix, AZ - Joe’s Grotto
27 - Brick By Brick - San Diego, CA
28 - Counts Vamp’d - Las Vegas, NV
29 - City National Grove of Anaheim - Anaheim, CA
30 - Whisky A Go Go - Hollywood, CA

Occult doom rock unit Albez Duz emerged from the dark corners of Berlin in 2006. Formed by Eugen "Impurus" Herbst initially as a one-man side project, the band's ominous debut was recorded in 2009 with singer Lars Kaeding. Following Kaeding's death however, the band stepped into the shadows for the next three years. With a lingering fire and purpose, Herbst continued to write for Albez Duz and, after an exhaustive search, crossed paths with Alfonso Brito whose voice seemed destined for the project. In September 2014, the duo brought the band's second album The Coming Of Mictlan to life via Iron Bonehead Records and Archaic Sound. They began performing live shortly thereafter.

Albez Duz -- old High German for "swan" (albez) and "noisiness" or "rush" (duz) -- has since shared the stage with acts such as Primordial and Swans as well as other rising talent including Bölzer, Ascension, and Hexvessel. In a short time, the Berliners established themselves as a force in the European underground and elicited high praise from both critics and audiences alike.

Albez Duz recently completed its third full-length album, the thundering Wings Of Tzinacan, at The Source Studios Munich with producer and audio engineer Michael Zech (Secrets Of The Moon, Triptykon, Ascension) at the helm. Guitarist Julia Neuman has joined their ranks, solidifying the band as an unstoppable power trio.

With a twilight performance at the prestigious Speckjaga Funkenflug Festival already checked off the band's list in 2016, and other appearances scheduled, Albez Duz is burning its flame higher and brighter, ready to cast a spell on the globe and initiate a new chapter in doom. The gates are open! Fans of Saint Vitus, Count Raven, Tiamat, Hawkwind, Jex Thoth, Pentagram, and the like have been warned.

Wings Of Tzinacan will see release via Listenable Records in Europe on October 21st, followed by a North American release on October 28th, with pre-orders and track teasers to be unveiled in the coming days. Wings Of Tzinacan cover art and tracklisting:

"The Uprising"
"Reflections"
"Our Lord The Flayed One"
"Innocence Gate"
"Sacred Flame"
"Tzinacan's Rising"
"Death Whistle"
"Omen Filled Season"

(Band photo courtesy of Photophobia Art)

 

American progressive power metal legends FATES WARNING celebrated the 30th anniversary of their "Awaken The Guardian" album with an exclusive headlining live appearance at the 2016 edition of the ProgPower USA festival on September 9 in Atlanta, Georgia. The band — in its original "Awaken The Guardian" lineup, featuring John Arch (vocals), Jim Matheos (guitar), Frank Aresti (guitar), Joe DiBiase (bass) and Steve Zimmerman (drums) — played the complete LP, as well as other songs from the Arch era of FATES WARNING. This was the second time FATES WARNING performed an old-school set with Arch on vocals, following their April 2016 appearance at the 2016 edition of the Keep It True festival in Lauda-Konigshofen, Germany.

Fan-filmed video footage of the Atlanta concert can be seen below.

Metal Blade Records in 2005 released an expanded edition of the "Awaken the Guardian" album. The three-disc set — consisting of two CDs and one DVD — included remastered versions of the album's original eight tracks, a complete CD of live and demo tracks, and a DVD featuring live footage from 1986.

FATES WARNING, with Arch on vocals, unleashed three albums (1984's "Night On Bröcken", 1985's "The Spectre Within" and "Awaken The Guardian") that would go on to influence progressive-minded bands like DREAM THEATER, before Arch left the group.

"We've actually stayed good friends throughout the years," Matheos told Noisecreep in 2011. "When John first left FATES WARNING back in 1987, there was definitely some distance between us and it was hard to get through. But we eventually patched things up some years later and we've stayed in touch since then. I wrote with him for his 'A Twist Of Fate' solo album back in 2003. We actually live a couple of hours from each other so we'll get together from time to time and go on hikes and stuff like that. We get along better today than we've ever had."

In a 1995 interview, Arch stated about the songwriting process for "Awaken The Guardian": "The music came first and we'd work on that music until it really got flowing. Sometimes Jim would write parts that were designed for a lead and I would listen to it and say, 'Y'know, Jim, I think I could write something vocally really nice over that.' He would give me that part and then he would write a lead part, so we had spare parts filed, who knows what, where we would put the songs together and they started to flow, and then the lyrics came in and then the song would sort of inspire me. I'd lay back, y'know, 12:30, 1 o'clock in the morning with the headphones on, over and over again, I'd just close my eyes and use my imagination, and, before you know it, I had kind of a theme or a topic to write around. And I'd have one line... the first line, of course, was always the hardest, and once you get past... and I always wanted to have something from beginning to end, a complete message and a complete thought, and I'd do my damndest to fit it all in! That's why it seems so busy; there was so much crammed into one song just because of the way we wrote. That's why it would be hard for me today to write anything where I would just sit down and just write lyrics and then write music around it. That would be ass-backwards compared to what it used to be like."

Former GUNS N' ROSES guitarist Izzy Stradlin has dismissed singer Axl Rose's explanation for why he isn't involved with the band's reunion tour as "bullshit." While GUNS N' ROSES' "Not In This Lifetime" tour features the "classic era" lineup of Rose, guitarist Slash and bassist Duff McKagan — with the occasional guest appearance by drummer Steven Adler — Rose told Brazil's Globo TV in a new interview that wasn't optimistic about Stradlin rejoining his former bandmates. "I don't really know what to say about Izzy," Axl said. "It's like you could have a conversation and think it's one way and the next day it's another way. And I'm not trying to take any shots at Izzy. It's just his thing is kind of his thing, whatever that is."

Stradlin took to his Twitter account earlier today to respond to Axl's comments, writing: "Bullshit. They didn't want to split the loot equally. Simple as that. Moving right along..."

Stradlin co-founded GUNS N' ROSES with childhood friend Axl Rose in 1985. He was major contributor to the band's classic 1987 debut LP "Appetite For Destruction" and the two "Use Your Illusion" albums in 1991, but quit the group that same year. The guitarist has maintained a low profile over the years, resurfacing periodically to make several surprise appearances at GUNS N' ROSES shows, including during the band's residency in Las Vegas in 2012.

Stradlin's last solo album, 2010's "Wave Of Heat", featured a guest appearance by GUNS N' ROSES bassist Duff McKagan.

Only Rose, Slash and McKagan from GN'R's "Appetite For Destruction"-era lineup have taken part in all the GUNS N' ROSES comeback shows since April. They were joined by drummer Frank Ferrer, keyboardist Dizzy Reed and guitarist Richard Fortus. Also appearing with them was second keyboardist Melissa Reese.

BullshitThey didn't want to split the loot equally . Simple as that . Moving right along........

— Izzy Stradlin (@IzzyStradlin999) September 8, 2016

California heavy rockers HIGH ON FIRE have released their new music video for the song "The Black Plot". Directed by visionary art freak Skinner (MASTODON) and visual effects team Hey Beautiful Jerk (RUN THE JEWELS, NINE INCH NAILS), the clip is an animated tour de force and a wild psychedelic fantasy epic.

"I wanted to make an animated short film with Hey Beautiful Jerk, I just didn't know how completely crazy it would get," says Skinner. "At first I thought we should do a real simple story with action fights to wear down the timing a little bit. But then I thought, fuck it, here's a super complicated story with a million characters and it's off-the-wall crazy and shit. Wanna do it?"

"This has definitely been the most challenging and the most rewarding project in the history of Hey Beautiful Jerk," adds the team of Mark Szumski and Gina Niespodziani. "Creatively, we did not make many concessions and we really pushed ourselves to see how far we could take this thing. It worked."

"The Black Plot" is taken from HIGH ON FIRE's latest album, "Luminiferous", which was released in June 2015 via eOne Music. The CD was recorded at Salem, Massachusetts' GodCity Studios with producer Kurt Ballou.

HIGH ON FIRE's celebrated albums "Snakes For The Divine", "De Vermis Mysteriis" and the aforementioned "Luminiferous", have just been issued on cassette for the very first time via eOne. The cassettes were released as a limited-edition bundle pack.

HIGH ON FIRE will tour North America this fall as direct support to Sweden's MESHUGGAH. The trek will kick off on October 11 in Atlanta, Georgia and run through November 6 in Silver Spring, Maryland.

Universally recognized as one of the most potent acts in music today, HIGH ON FIRE creates molten heavy metal that merges primal fury and aggression, blackened bombast and hall of fame heaviness. The group's seventh studio album, "Luminiferous" is a supersonic exercise in conquest by volume, delivering calculated catharsis as a volcano of revolving riffs and hailstorm of thundering drums combine to beam a blazing spotlight towards the future of modern metal music.

"We're doing our part to expose The Elite and the fingers they have in religion, media, governments and financial world downfall and their relationship to all of our extraterrestrial connections in the race to control this world," comments HIGH ON FIRE vocalist/guitarist Matt Pike. "Wake up, it's happening. All while we stare at a socially engineered lie we think of as normalcy. Unless we wake from the dream, there will come true doom."

Three years after the release of 2013's "Common Courtesy", A DAY TO REMEMBER have returned in grand style, entering The Billboard 200 at No. 2 with new album "Bad Vibrations". Per Billboard, it's also the best-selling album of the week and debuts at No. 1 on their Top Album Sales Chart and No. 1 on Billboard's Top Independent Album Chart, Top Rock Albums Chart and Hard Rock Albums Chart. As if that weren't impressive enough, "Bad Vibrations" also hit No. 1 on iTunes Top Album Chart and No. 1 in Australia and top 10 in the U.K. and Germany. As KROQ.com wrote in a recent feature: "A DAY TO REMEMBER is on a rocket ride and holding on with a death grip.” "Bad Vibrations"' chart success preserves an incredible streak for the band: over the course of the past several years, each of A DAY TO REMEMBER's releases have hit No. 1 on Billboard's Rock, Indie and/or Alternative Charts. The album, released on the band's own ADTR Records and distributed by Epitaph, got off to quick start with lead single "Paranoia", a track that shot straight to the top 10 at rock radio while amassing over 9.4 million Spotify streams with a companion video that's racked up over 6.2 million YouTube views. The quintet (vocalist Jeremy McKinnon, guitarists Kevin Skaff and Neil Westfall, bassist Joshua Woodard and drummer Alex Shelnutt) maintained momentum with a steady stream of preview tracks and videos, the most recent being "Naivety" and "Bullfight", and a summer-long tour where they've garnered critical acclaim playing to packed arenas and sheds alongside BLINK-182. "Thank you so much to everyone who picked up a copy of our new record 'Bad Vibrations'," said Jeremy McKinnon. "We went into this with no expectations and have been completely blown away with the support so far. We can't wait to play more of the material live. Big thanks to The Blasting Room, Andy Wallace, Andrew Wade, Epitaph, and Fly South Music Group for putting up with our shit, and helping us solidify our biggest release of all time. Having a team that works together is everything. Thank you all." In December, A DAY TO REMEMBER will head to Australia for a string of shows with support from OF MICE & MEN, followed by a performance at Knotfest Japan with DEFTONES, then a headlining run that'll take them to the U.K. (where they'll top the bill at London's Wembley Arena), Germany, Italy, France and more. "Bad Vibrations" was produced by Bill Stevenson (DESCENDENTS, BLACK FLAG) and Jason Livermore (RISE AGAINST, NOFX) and mixed by Grammy winner Andy Wallace (FOO FIGHTERS, SLAYER). A DAY TO REMEMBER has sold more than 1.5 million units, racked up over 400 million Spotify streams and 500 million YouTube views, racked up two gold-selling albums, three gold-selling singles (and one silver album in the U.K.) and sold out entire continental tours, amassing a global fanbase whose members number in the millions. All of which explains why Rolling Stone called them "An Artist You Need To Know." A DAY TO REMEMBER is managed by Mark Mercado and John Youngman at Fly South Music Group.

So-Cal rock trio Kyng is set to release their new studio album, Breathe In The Water, on October 7th via Razor & Tie. Produced by Machine (Lamb of God, Clutch) the album was recorded at The Machine Shop Recording Studio in Austin, TX and is the follow up to 2014's Burn the Serum.

Breathe In The Water is frontloaded with the type of impassioned vocals that erupt from the depths of the gut, unforgettable blues-soaked riffs, and pulverizing rhythmic clap. Driven by frontman/guitarist Eddie Veliz, the three-piece band also features drummer Pepe Clarke Magana and bassist Tony Castaneda. They take a no-nonsense approach to music: free of pretense, studio trickery and gimmicks. The result is a collection of songs that is real and raw, addressing themes of anger, loss and desperation. Original cover artwork by Conor Nolan reflects topics running throughout the album. Brian Blickle (Baroness) and Zach Blair (Rise Against) are guest collaborators.

"We were finally able to create a record that had zero stigmas to appease the industry. Every song on this record came from the depth of what Kyng truly is as a band. This album is far beyond anything that we have done in the past. Some of my best work resides in Breathe In The Water,” states Veliz.

Breathe In The Water tracklisting

"Pristine Warning”
“Breathe In the Water”
“Closer to the End”
“Follow Blindly”
“Show Me Your Love”
“Reckoning Part 1”
“The Dead”
“Bipolar Schemes”
“Hide From You”
“Song For A Broken Masque”
“The Beginning of What Was”
“The Battle of the Saint / Lines”
“Not Enough”
“What I’m Made Of / Reckoning Part 2”

“Pristine Warning”:

Kyng is set to hit the road this fall:
 
September
12 - Black Sheep - Colorado Springs, CO                          
14 - Limelight - Peoria, IL                                              
16 - Saint Vitus - Brooklyn, NY                       
17 - Revolution Rock Festival - New London, CT                  
18 - Monster Energy Rock Allegiance - Chester, PA                                           
20 - The International - Knoxville, TN#      
21 - The End - Nashville, TN                        
24 - Texas Mutiny - Dallas, TX                             
25 - Houston Open Air Festival - Houston, TX                                         
28 - The Town Ballroom - Buffalo, NY*                                        
30 - First Energy Park - Lakewood, NJ         *             

October
1 - Stage AE - West Pittsburg, PA*                             
2 - Champions Park - Louisville, KY                       
4 - House Of Blues - Lake Buena Vista, FL*                         
5 - The Buckhead Theatre - Atlanta, GA*                         
7 - Lincoln Theatre Street - Stage Raleigh, NC*                           
8 - Express Live - Columbus, OH*                    
10 - Metroplex - Little Rock, AR*                   
11 - Diamond Ballroom - Oklahoma City, OK*                            
12 - Sunshine Theater - Albuquerque, NM*               
14 - The Novo - Los Angeles, CA*
15 - Brooklyn Bowl - Las Vegas, NV*                   
16 - The Regency Ballroom - San Francisco, CA*                              
18 - Boulder Theater - Boulder, CO*                        
20 - Uptown Theater - Kansas City, MO*                 
22 - Anthem at Hard Rock Hotel - Sioux City, IA*                     
24 - The Blue Note - Columbia, MO                      
25 - House of Blues - Chicago, IL*          
27 - Orpheum Theater - Madison, WI*                       
28 - The Fillmore Detroit - Detroit, MI*                          
29 - Upstate Concert Hall - Clifton Park, NY*                 
30 - The Palladium - Worcester, MA*                   

November
1 - Old Rock House - St Louis, MO                        
2 - Downtown Lounge - Tulsa, OK                              
3 - Jakes Backroom - Lubbock, TX                         
4 - Lowbrow Palace - El Paso, TX

^ - with Anthrax
# - with Pop Evil
* - with Clutch and Zakk Sabbath