During an appearance on Sweet Potato Pod With Todd Royce, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH bassist Chris Kael reflected on a recent "fanboy moment" involving one of his musical heroes. He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "I am a huge METALLICA fan. We are out on tour with METALLICA, doing shows with them and then doing dates in between those shows. But I've had the chance to interact with the guys from METALLICA. And people will say, 'Don't meet your heroes.' Fuck that. METALLICA is awesome. Those dudes are great.

"To see them, haven't done it for — what? — 40 years, I think, at this point, and to still be as actively involved in the fan experience as those guys are, it's amazing," he continued. "It gives hope for me down the road and lessons to be learned to stay humble, to stay involved and be on top of everything. Don't let other people do stuff for you. I'm very hardcore punk rock DIY. They are as well. Hands in everything that they do. Very oversight. And I love seeing that.

"There was one day I was in catering with my tech, and [METALLICA frontman] James Hetfield walked in," Chris added. "He was on his phone talking to somebody. And I see him put [the phone] down. He goes, 'Hold on a second.' He said, 'Hey, Kael. You doing good? Having a good time? Is there anything that you need?' All that other stuff. And then he's, like, 'Okay, I'll talk to you in a minute.' He got back on his phone. I looked at my tech. I was, like, 'Did James Hetfield just get off the phone to say hi to me?'

"So I'm still very much aware of how wonderful this whole experience is, to be able to rub elbows with people I grew up admiring, people who are the reason that I play music. We opened up for KISS. I got Gene Simmons tattooed on my shin. Just to be able to be on those same stages, playing those same shows — yeah, it's crazy."

This past April, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH guitarist Zoltan Bathory spoke to Audacy Check In about what it's been like for him and his bandmates to support METALLICA on a massive stadium tour in 2023 and 2024. He said: "That's great. Eighty, ninety thousand people in a stadium, that's massive. And it's one of those things where, obviously, we have a big fanbase that overlaps. So, METALLICA is such a huge band; they had four decades to gain that fanbase, so you're gonna have three generations of people in there. And it's such a big band now that — and in some ways they're growing, believe it or not, METALLICA, still; it's crazy. And so it's such a big band that even if you're not necessarily into metal, you've gotta come; you have to come and see. And so that means there are gonna be a lot of people in that arena that, hearing a band named FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, they're probably not gonna us a chance because they have no idea what that would be. So that means that we are playing to a substantial amount of people who never heard of [us] before. And I can tell that we're turning them, I can tell, especially after the show. You can definitely see it, because we have, obviously, statistics and online we can measure that. After every show, there's a jump in visitors and a jump in downloads and a jump in statistics, so I know that we're hitting a massive amount of people with that."

FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH played its first show as the support act for METALLICA on the "M72" tour in August 2023 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH was originally supposed to support METALLICA on several European shows in the spring of 2023 but ended up canceling the dates in order to allow singer Ivan Moody to fully recover from his hernia surgery.

When FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH played a few shows in Europe as the support act for METALLICA in July 2022, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH shared a video report on the pairing in which Moody said of the experience: "Everyone sets goals, as you should. But you have to understand, for us, this is the apex, this is the climax, this is the top of the fucking hill. And it's amazing to me that we've been on tour for almost 15 years and never crossed paths with this band. And I've gotta tell you, they paved the road for any of us, and anyone that argues that fact is out of their fucking mind. The one and only METALLICA."

Back in 2016, Kael told Loudwire that METALLICA's classic third album, "Master Of Puppets", represented a turning point in his music tastes. He recalled: "I went to a place called Disc Jockey Records back in Lexington [Kentucky] and I had in my hand 'Master Of Puppets' and RUN-DMC 'Raising Hell' and I had to make that decision. Which one? I've heard about this band METALLICA through Circus magazine and whatnot, but I haven't heard the music, but I know RUN-DMC."

He continued: "I ended up picking up METALLICA and 'Master Of Puppets', and right from the first notes of 'Battery', hearing that beautiful guitar piece into crushing and everything that Cliff Burton did on that basically shaped me melodic-wise on bass right from the very beginning. So that album is probably one of the most influential in terms of making me want to play bass. I'll never be able to get to the same level talent-wise that Cliff Burton was, but it was a challenge."

In 2015, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH's then-drummer Jeremy Spencer said that Lars Ulrich was a huge influence on him as a drummer and credited the METALLICA sticksman for inspiring him to play double bass.

"['Master Of Puppets' is] definitely my favorite, probably, metal album ever," Spencer said. "It's gotta be top two for sure. It's a toss-up between that and… I actually like 'South Of Heaven' by SLAYER too. But when I first heard 'Master Of Puppets', man, the drumming and the double bass, I never heard anything like that before as a young kid. It made such an impression on me that I just kind of wanted to do all things double bass. There's some really fast moments in 'Damage Inc.', and it just stuck with me and made such an impression on me as a drummer when I was younger; I instantly fell in love with it."

Asked what was so special about "Master Of Puppets" in particular, Spencer said: "I think they blended… They kind of had some European melody going on in the guitars, especially in the early records. That was different. But it was just… It was a different beast at that time; nothing sounded like it. There was an energy coming from that, and I think the riffs and the arrangements of the songs, it made such an impression on me and on so many other people."

Regarding how much of an impact Burton's contributions had on the way "Master Of Puppets" turned out, Spencer said: "I really don't know, but, obviously, he had some serious influence on them, 'cause their sound drastically changed [after his death]. But I love it. I think the first three records are incredible, to me."

FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH is continuing to tour in support of its ninth album, "AfterLife" which was released in August 2022 via Better Noise.

On April 5, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH released the digital deluxe edition of "AfterLife", featuring the original 12 tracks recorded with the band's longtime producer Kevin Churko (OZZY OSBOURNE) in addition to four bonus tracks: three acoustic versions of the album's songs "The End", "Judgement Day" and "Thanks For Asking" plus a brand new song, "This Is The Way", featuring the late rapper DMX.

Infrared is back with a vengeance, releasing their classic thrash video for “Demon’s Blood” – premiered exclusively through BraveWords. This is the first single off their upcoming album Manifestation, which is slated for a September 6, 2024 release. Hailing from Ottawa, Canada they are a blast from the past with their genuine ‘80s sound. 


The comment on what to expect from the track:


“This ripper of a song delves into the addict's life and mind and how every day is a rinse and repeat of self-abuse. Was one of the first songs written for the album and helped set the tone for the album’s intensity. We all have our demons and vices and this song captures just how harrowing and controlling it can be to be a victim to your own addiction.”




“Demon’s Blood” is a prime example of Infrared's ability to blend their classic thrash roots with contemporary themes. The band has matured and refined their sound, delivering high-energy, concise tracks that resonate with both longtime fans and new listeners. With their polished performance and engaging stage presence, Infrared remains a force to be reckoned with in the metal world. Be sure to check out the "Demon’s Blood" video and experience the raw power of Infrared.


Infrared has been together for a long time (10 years with the current lineup) and is very in sync with each other musically. This experience together gives the audience a polished and professional-sounding band. Audience participation is always a part of an Infrared show with the crowd singing along during the choruses. They are recommended for fans of Slayer, Metallica, and Testament.


Preorder on Bandcamp.





Tracklisting:


“Cataclysm”
“Temple Of Sin”
“Nikko”
“Demon’s Blood”
“Pressure Syndrome”
“The Manifest”
“Manifest Nation”
“Concuss”
“Reforma”
“My Dreams Are Real”
“Parasite Patrol”
“Then The Earth Goes Black”


(Photo: Carissa Broeren)

In a new interview with Joe Rock of Long Island's rock station 102.3 WBAB, MR. BIG frontman Eric Martin admitted that he is "second guessing" the announcement that that the group's ongoing "The BIG Finish" farewell will in fact mark the last time he and his bandmates hit the road together. He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Now since we're all getting along perfectly and the band's so super tight, I'm thinking, why are we dissolving our partnership? I'm second guessing now. I hope we do more records, but I get it. Paul [Gilbert, MR. BIG guitarist] probably doesn't want to tour as much, just like I don't. We've been on this road trip for a year. I don't wanna do the really lengthy tours. I'm not 30 years old anymore. I'm not even 40. I'm not even 50 anymore."

Eric continued: "I love people when they go, 'Oh, what about THE ROLLING STONES? Yeah, what about THE ROLLING STONES? They're super butt rich. They play one gig a week and they fly in, in a jet and five-star hotels. They're a little older now and they still rock out, but I'm thinking Mick Jagger gets carried to the stage. Come on."

Asked if he and his MR. BIG bandmates have considered the idea of doing a residency type of thing somewhere in the future, Eric said: "Well, I would. I would. I know that we've all agreed that — I hope there's a one-off here and there, but after August 23rd, that's all she wrote. And we're gonna stick to our guns — try to stick to our guns. I hope that we do one or two more shows. It's funny that you say residency because our drummer, our new drummer, Nick D'Virgilio, that's his idea lately, going we should do a residency — in Japan, for God's sake. We could do that. Las Vegas, move over Elton [John] and Celine Dion, and we could just maybe get in on the off strip and do a month or do a couple of weeks a year. That would be — in the immortal words of my father — that would be swell."

MR. BIG's tenth studio album, "Ten", was released on July 12 via Frontiers Music Srl. The LP features 11 new original tracks written by Martin and Gilbert, along with André Pessis and Tony Fanucchi. "Ten" was produced by Jay Ruston and MR. BIG.

D'Virgilio is missing most of the final European leg of MR. BIG's "The BIG Finish" tour due to his commitments with his band BIG BIG TRAIN. He is being temporarily replaced on the trek by Edu Cominato, an experienced drummer from São Paulo, Brazil who has previously played with Sheehan and Martin, Jeff Scott Soto and Geoff Tate (QUEENSRŸCHE),among others.

MR. BIG recently completed the European leg of "The BIG Finish", which saw the veteran band performing MR. BIG's 1991 album, "Lean Into It", in full, along with other cuts from the group's history.

When MR. BIG announced "The BIG Finish" tour last year, the bandmembers said that it was "time to mark the end of this chapter of their legacy" after drummer Pat Torpey lost his battle with Parkinson's disease in 2018. The first leg kicked off in Japan and Southeast Asia in July and August 2023, where the band performed for hundreds of thousands of loyal fans at 11 sold-out shows including Budokan in Tokyo, Japan.

As a session musician and touring artist, Nick has worked with many different kinds of artists and bands, from TEARS FOR FEARS, Sheryl Crow and Kevin Gilbert to Peter Gabriel and Eric Burdon and the ANIMALS. In 1996, Nick took Phil Collins's place in GENESIS and played on their "Calling All Stations" album. He has also carved out a major presence in the progressive rock world with his bands, SPOCK'S BEARD and BIG BIG TRAIN.

Before joining the Sweetwater team, Nick spent almost five years touring with Cirque Du Soleil's "Totem" as drummer, vocalist, and assistant bandleader.

MR. BIG's last-ever live album release will be "The BIG Finish Live", which is due out September 6 via the Evolution Music Group.

"The BIG Finish Live" is a brand-new live album and concert film of MR. BIG's "The BIG Finish" farewell tour, where the band played their million-selling "Lean Into It" album in its entirety, plus additional MR. BIG classics. Filmed in 4K at the Budokan in Tokyo, Japan on July 26, 2023, this historic performance will be available in many different multiple high-quality formats: 180g black vinyl (3-LP),Hybrid Stereo Multi-Channel SACDs (2),MQA-CDs (2),MQA-CDs + Blu-ray (2),4K Ultra HD Blu-ray (featuring behind-the-scenes and interview footage),and cassette (2). All of these formats will come with a booklet/insert that includes previously unreleased photos from their Budokan performance, as well as a sticker or postcard gift for fans.

One of the most instantly recognizable — and successful — rock bands of the '70s was THE SWEET, who scored a string of hit albums and singles due to their highly melodic and anthemic sound and glam look. And now, the group is proud to announce the July 25 release of their new hot single/video "Little Miracle" on Dark Star Records, via Sony/Orchard.

This pop rock funky love song is another example of THE SWEET's departure from the norm. Model Dominique Mercedes makes her stunning debut appearance in the video, and her innocent-yet-enticing beauty captures the essence of true love. Singer Patrick Alan Stone along with his band mates deliver the goods, with a catchy tune that has the legs to go all the way.

THE SWEET's classic '70s line-up was comprised of Brian Connolly on lead and backing vocals, Steve Priest on bass, backing and lead vocals, Mick Tucker on drums, backing and occasional lead vocals, and Andy Scott on guitar, keyboards, backing and lead vocals.

After the passing of Connelly (in 1997) and Tucker (in 2002),Priest wanted SWEET to carry on and for its line up to possess the talent, feel and high energy that THE SWEET had in its glory days. Priest's new lineup was an instant smash success, playing hundreds of concerts across the United States, Canada, South America, Europe, and many other countries around the world for well over a decade, until Priest's passing in 2020.

Shortly after, it was decided that THE SWEET should continue onward, as Stevie and Richie were part of that line up and were asked to carry on by Steve. SWEET 2024 is comprised of frontman Patrick Alan Stone, guitarist Jimmy Burkard, keyboardist Dave Schulz, bassist Stevie Stewart and drummer Richie Onori.

The original SWEET band achieved massive commercial success around the globe in the '70s, including such hits as "Ballroom Blitz", "Fox On the Run", "Love Is Like Oxygen", "Little Willy", "Blockbuster", "Action", "Teenage Rampage" and "AC/DC", among many others.

"Little Miracle" is just the beginning of the group's ascension into a whole new demographic listening audience, with many new songs yet to come.

This new release with the aforementioned lineup demonstrates the same driving force and unpredictable musical quality that has always been the hallmark and essence of THE SWEET's iconic sound.

Upcoming live shows:

July 25 - Hollywood, CA - The Bourbon Room
August 23 - Regina, SK - Shake the Lake
August 24 - Toronto, ON - Sobey's Stadium
September 6 - St. Charles, IL - Arcade Theater
September 7 - Wisconsin Dells, WI - Crystal Grand Music Theatre
September 8 - Nashville, IN - Brown County Music Center
November 8 - Warren, MI - Andiamo Celebrity Showroom

SWEET 2024 is:

Vocals: Patrick Alan Stone
Guitar: Jimmy Burkard
Bass and backing vocals: Stevie Stewart
Keys and backing vocals: Dave Schulz
Drums: Richie Onori

This version of SWEET is not to be confused with the Scott-led version of SWEET which will release its new studio album, "Full Circle", on September 20, 2024 via Metalville Records. According to a press release, the LP will be SWEET's final studio album ever.

Andy Scott (guitars/vocals) is joined in his version of SWEET by Paul Manzi (lead vocals),Lee Small (bass guitar/vocals),Tom Cory (guitars/keys/vocals) and Adam Booth (drums/percussion).

Before he died, Priest had the right to use the SWEET name in the U.S. and Canada, whereas Scott toured a version of the group in the U.K. The pair were estranged for decades, but resumed contact in the 2010s.

Kobra And The Lotus vocalist Kobra Paige has checked in with the following update:


"'Like No Other' is out now, and guess what … this is the title track to my album, available on August 30th. No take backs, this is the real deal; save the date!


Make sure to hit the pre-save at here.




This song is the heartbeat of the album and the distillation of what, I believe to be, life’s journey. It speaks to the recognition of our mind, body, and spirit as the one 'home' we truly have in this lifetime. We are its sacred keeper and there’s no limit to the number of times we can rebuild or change its path.


As we move through this song, you will hear a sonic blend of worldliness and familiarity. This is to express the beautiful paradox of our individuality in this world while simultaneously being plugged into the tapestry of a collective. Life can often feel lonely, despite being surrounded by so many others.


I want to remind you of your resilience and brilliance. This song brings an important affirmation deeply rooted in 'enoughness' and truth. 


'I Am Like No Other'.


You are the only one keeping you from yourself.


With great love."
KP xx





Like No Other was produced by Grammy Award winner Brian Howes (Skillet, Linkin Park, Simple Plan). It is mixed by Grammy Award winner Neal Avron (Machine Gun Kelly, Twenty One Pilots, Yungblud) and mastered by Grammy nominated Chris Gehringer at Sterling Sound (Miley Cyrus, Muse, Drake).


Check out the previous singles "HOTT." and "Under One Sun" below.


"HOTT."





"Under One Sun"

With a bottle of whiskey and a love for metal, Bless The Dead was established in April of 2013. The band created a southern-feeling groove metal sound that harnesses all that rock and roll has to offer. Drums heavy and pounding like thunder floating across the country, followed up by bass that buries itself in your bones, highlighted by guitars that tear through the atmosphere with awesome heavy southern riffs of old. The harsh gritty vocals tie it all together with lyrics related to everyday life in the craziness that is our reality. Bless The Dead, with their sound and lyrics, celebrate their influences, past and present, the best way they know how. They celebrate the wins in life and relive the losses that have shaped each one of them.


They will release their new album, We Create This, on August 9th via Wormholedeath Records.







Tracklist:


"755"
"DFK"
"Dead Hearts"
"No Clue What For"
"Tracks In The Dust"
"Swinger"
"Slip Away"
"Wander"
"Watching Them Fall"
"Sorry My Dude"


Check out the single "755" below.

In a new interview with United Rock Nations, legendary guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen was asked if he spent "many hours each day practicing" his guitar playing when he was a kid. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "I didn't practice. I never practiced — never practiced ever. I played as if I was performing. I wouldn't accept myself going [hums a scale]. Never. Only play perfect now. I [would be] telling myself, 'Don't sound like you're fucking trying to do something. Do it.' Mental focus so much that it became just every day more and better and better and better. I never practiced. I mean, it's inadvertently practicing, because I played so much. But I improvised. And I would say, 'I wanna improvise in A harmonic minor,' for instance. But there was no way I'm gonna play a wrong note; there was no way I'm gonna play a B flat in that scale. I just wouldn't do it. [I was playing] like crazy, improvising. Not scales. I mean, obviously scales. I'm very well aware of music theory — I know it super well — but I would never practice. That's the wrong word."

A little over a decade ago, Malmsteen told Classic Rock Revisited that he doesn't allow himself to get burnt out on music.

"I've been playing for so long that I don't practice much anymore," he explained. "I play guitar all the time but it's not like I'm practicing songs. When I get inspired, I go to the studio and when I'm on stage, I'm inspired because of all the people. But I don't go off stage on to the tour bus and listen to music. That intensity that I want to retain, I want it to be real because I can pull out the autopilot any day, but that's not the real thing to me. I don't like to do that. When I play, I need it to be honest and in the moment. That goes for being on stage or in the studio. For instance, if I go in to a studio to record a solo or whatever, and it doesn't happen right away, I just say, 'fuck it' and I'm out of there. I don't keep on doing it. I won't do another take. Either it happens or it won't."

Yngwie will embark on a 40th-anniversary tour this fall. Support on the trek, which will kick off on September 26 in Fort Myers, Florida and conclude on November 18 in New York City, will come from singer-songwriter Kurt Deimer.

For more information, visit www.yngwiemalmsteen.com/tour.

Yngwie's latest album, "Parabellum", was released in July 2021 via Music Theories Recordings/Mascot Label Group. Only four of the songs on the LP feature vocals. The album title is Latin, translating as "Prepare For War".

After working with some of the top hard singers of the past four decades, Yngwie now handles much of the lead vocals himself in his own band, backed by a lineup that includes keyboardist Nick Marino, bassist Emilio Martinez and drummer Kevin Klingenschmid.

Following their successful debut Prey, symphonic death metal band Haliphron returns with their second full-length Anatomy Of Darkness scheduled for a release on October 25, 2024 via Listenable Records.


Haliphron's lyrical themes are consistently intertwined with their captivating and powerful sound.  


For Anatomy Of Darkness, the band has pushed their boundaries further than ever before.  
The album features shorter, more guitar and riff-based tracks, intense lead guitar parts, and an overall more aggressive tone.  




A key component is the vocal diversity, incorporating grunts, screams, growls, whispers, and even clean singing.  


These elements combine to make Anatomy Of Darkness a loud, epic, and aggressive metal album.





The band further elaborates on the album's cover artwork: 


"The cover artwork symbolizes the essence of darkness. It depicts a figure standing in a wheat field, representing the struggle against addiction. Darkness dissipates into small pieces, transforming into birds of freedom (which displayed on the back cover)."


Tracklisting:


“Opus Addicere”
“Silent Escape”
“Feasting On Flesh”
“Black Star”
“Buried Truth”
“Double Or Nothing”
“Epitome Of Perfection”
“Art Of The Blade”
“Anatomy Of Darkness”


Teaser:





Haliphron:
Marloes Voskuil - Vocals
Ramon Ploeg - Guitars
Jeroen Wechgelaer - Guitars
Jessica Otten - Bass
Paul Beltman - Drums

In a new interview with Brazil's Alma Hard, GREAT WHITE guitarist Mark Kendall reflected on the departure of the band's original singer Jack Russell nearly a decade and a half ago. Russell exited GREAT WHITE in December 2011 after he was unable to tour with the group due a series of injuries, including a perforated bowel and a shattered pelvis. Jack largely blamed these injuries on his alcohol and painkiller addictions as well as the prednisone drug he was prescribed.

"It was awful," Mark said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET). "We basically just said we wanted him to get well and be better, because he wasn't able to perform up to his potential because of addiction. And I myself have been sober for almost 16 years and I work with a lot of people that suffer and are struggling. I only work with people who need help. But some people, it's harder than others; the addiction just overwhelms them and they really have a hard time stopping. And I never take anyone's addiction personal."

Mark continued: "Jack Russell has never done anything to hurt me. He just had an addiction. He's still a brother. It's unfortunate because he's such a talent. He had one of the best rock voices ever. He could sing anything — beautiful ballads, anything hard, heavy-hitting. He had the range, good-quality voice — just the greatest ever. So it was a little tough because we made a band together, just me and him. When he first met me, he auditioned for my band and then he said, 'Why don't you and me get away from this deal and go make our own thing?' And so the brotherhood was just amazing from the get-go. And we created everything from nothing, just him and I, getting this bass player and that drummer and just plugging away and making music. So you hate for something to happen to where someone can't perform to their potential anymore. It's unfortunate. But we're just moving down the road. We, of course, wish him the best. I know he's really in a bad spot. So you've just gotta pray for people."

Asked if he thinks there is a chance Jack could make a guest appearance with GREAT WHITE at some point or play with the band again, Mark said: "I don't know. It hasn't come up. I think he's not well right now, from what I'm hearing and seeing on the Internet. So I don't know. Anything could happen. You never know. The opportunity hasn't came.

"I know, because I'm a fan myself, and I'd like to see all my heroes' bands all keep the same members their entire career," Kendall explained. "I don't even want the bass part to change. Sometimes you're in a position to where that's not possible, even though you know the fans would love it and so would we. You get somebody who's sick. I mean, I don't know what to do. And my whole life is my guitar. I love playing my guitar. I don't care how I have to do it, I'm not gonna stop playing guitar. I heard a friend of mine saying, 'Just like my neck tattoo says, I'm doing the best I can.' [Laughs]"

Earlie this week, Russell announced that he was retiring from touring.

"After a recent diagnosis of Lewy body dementia (LBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA) in May 2024, I am unable to perform at the level I desire and at the level you deserve," Russell said in a statement. "Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love and support. Thank you for letting me live my dreams. You have made my life a wonder."

Lewy body dementia is the second most common cause of neurodegenerative dementia after Alzheimer's disease.

Lewy body dementia impacts memory, decision-making and ability to solve problems. It has led to motor and muscle weakness and rigidity. It also can cause sleep disorders and hallucinations.

Lewy body dementia is often misdiagnosed as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease due to its early similarity to those other neurodegenerative diseases.

After actor and comedian Robin Williams took his own life in August 2014, autopsy results revealed he was suffering from LBD.

Russell's long-awaited autobiography, now titled "The True Tale Of Mista Bone: A Rock + Roll Narrative", has just been released via Gatekeeper Press. Penned by author Katelyn Louise "K.L." Doty, it features a sentimental foreword by Lita Ford, with additional commentary from Eric Singer, Eddie Trunk, John Kalodner, Kip Winger and others. The book, with a cover photo by legendary rock photographer Mark Weiss, is available in paperback, hardcover and e-book form.

For more information, visit www.jackrussellbook.com.

Russell sued his onetime bandmates in 2012 over their continued use of the GREAT WHITE name after Jack had taken a leave of absence from the band for medical reasons. A short time later, Russell was countersued by Kendall, rhythm guitarist/keyboardist Michael Lardie and drummer Audie Desbrow, claiming the vocalist's self-destructive behavior was damaging the GREAT WHITE name (they also alleged he was charging promoters less for his own touring version of GREAT WHITE). The parties settled in July 2013 without going to trial, with Russell most recently performing as JACK RUSSELL'S GREAT WHITE while the others are continuing as GREAT WHITE.

In October 2022, GREAT WHITE officially named Brett Carlisle as its new lead singer. Carlisle joined the band as the replacement for Andrew Freeman, who sang for GREAT WHITE for only five months.

Carlisle made his live debut with GREAT WHITE on September 24, 2022 at the Cannery Casino Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Progressive alternative rockers Pure Reason Revolution return with their sixth studio album Coming Up To Consciousness, released on September 6, 2024 via InsideOutMusic. Betrayal, deception, fear, grief, mortality, and questions of sanity: heady and primordial themes animate the latest conceptual LP from Pure Reason Revolution.


Second single from the album, “Useless Animal”, is available below.


Jon Courtney comments of the track: “Very pleased to launch our next single, showing another side of ‘Coming up to Consciousness’. The song’s about how we don’t realise something’s worth until it’s gone.




Taking my dog to be put down & the emotional fallout, the unexpected impact. Grief is the price we pay for love. Written as a result of purposefully trying to avoid my usual repertoire of chords. This was the first track Guy Pratt played bass on, he did a wonderful job & his input spurred on further creativity.”  


Coming Up To Consciousness is the third of its post-hiatus renaissance records that began with 2020's Eupnea and continued in 2022's Above Cirrus. Like those two predecessors, the new record is intensely personal. Its eight tracks are all between four and seven minutes long - concise by PRR standards - and they grapple with darkness of various kinds.


Courtney, who lives in Berlin, shared writing duties on several tracks with US-based Greg Jong. The pair formed Pure Reason Revolution together in the early 00s at the University of Westminster, creating breakout hit "The Bright Ambassadors of Morning" as their third year project. They reconnected during the creation of Eupnea and have continued the partnership since then both in the studio and on stage. Legendary session musician Guy Pratt, who has worked with Pink Floyd among myriad iconic acts, provided bass guitar on seven of the eight tracks, resulting in more ambitious bass lines than any of Pure Reason Revolution's previous records. Meanwhile, Ravi Kesavaram, of My Vitriol fame, returns to the drums on this record after touring with the band in 2022.


Another newcomer on this record is vocalist Annicke Shireen, known for her work with Shireen and Heilung, as well as her solo project. Shireen stepped in after original PRR member and fan favourite Chloe Alper was unavailable for recent live shows. With Alper's schedule remaining packed for the foreseeable future, she has been unable to rejoin the lineup. She and Courtney agreed it made more sense for Shireen to sing on the record if she was going to continue appearing in shows. Both Courtney and Jong have nothing but enthusiasm for working with her:


"They're impossible shoes to fill in a lot of ways," Greg Jong says. "But we were just blown away with how good she is. We were really excited by the fact that vocally she does have a similar tone to Chloe, and yet she definitely holds her own.”


The band was equally thrilled to work with multiple members of prog icon The Pineapple Thief; the record was mixed by Bruce Soord, mastered by Steve Kitch, and sees Jon Sykes playing bass on one track. Coming Up To Consciousness is also the third PRR album to feature cover art by Jill Tegan Doherty, who Courtney originally met in Berlin on a German language course.


The album will be available as a Limited CD+DVD Digipak (featuring 5.1 Surround Sound & High Resolution Stereo Mixes), Standard CD Jewelcase, as well as a Gatefold ReVinyl LP (Recycled Vinyl), and digitally in both stereo and Dolby Atmos.


Pre-order here.





Tracklisting:


"Prelude: Coming up to Consciousness"
"Dig Till You Die"
"Interlude 1"
"Betrayal"
"The Gallows"
"Interlude 2"
"Useless Animal"
"Interlude 3"
"Worship"
"Interlude 4"
"Bend the Earth"
"Lifeless Creature"
"Interlude 5"
"As We Disappear"


"Useless Animal" video:





"Dig Till You Die" video:

Triumpher will release Spirit Invictus on October 25 via No Remorse Records. Lyric video for “Arrival Of The Avenger” is available below.


Striking while the iron is still hot, Triumpher already started planning their sophomore album by the time their debut Storming The Walls was released in March 2023. Bringing their power on stages, Triumpher also performed at Up The Hammers and Keep It True Rising festivals, while they also supported Tom Gabriel Warrior's Triumph of Death and Primordial. 


Spirit Invictus consists of eight songs of unbound, furious and dramatic epic metal that will lay its mark on the scene of today and will lead the future.




Spirit Invictus was recorded, mixed and mastered by George Emmanuel at Pentagram Studio. Produced by George Emmanuel and Triumpher. Cover and inlay art by Mars Triumph. Graphic and layout design by Anastasia Ziazopoulou.


Available formats:
- 180gr LP gold, limited 100
- 180gr LP silver marbled, limited 200
- 180gr LP black
- CD





Tracklisting:


“Overture To Elysian”
“Arrival Of The Avenger”
“Athena (1st Chapter)”
“Spirit Invictus”
“Alexander”
“Shores Of Marathon”
“Triumpher”
“Hall Of A Thousand Storms”


“Arrival Of The Avenger” lyric video:

As the story goes... In 1998, Swedish blackened death metal band Fatal Embrace recorded an album titled Hail Down Deep. Alas, the album never saw the light of day... until now.


26 years after its originally intended release date, Fatal Embrace has resurrected Hail Down Deep and is ready to unleash it upon the world. The album has now been re-recorded with new vocals by the band's lyricist, Henric Serholt. Hail Down Deep was mixed and mastered by drummer Christian Silver.


Fatal Embrace released their debut album, Shadowsoul's Garden in November of 1997. A few months later - determined to create a near-perfect record - the band recorded Halls Down Deep. However, the members soon got involved with other bands and Hail Down Deep remained unreleased for decades.




In 2023, the band wrote and released Manifestum Infernalis. This became the catalyst that led to the long-awaited unveiling of Hail Down Deep.


Black Lion Records will release Hail Down Deep on September 27. Preorder on Bandcamp.





Tracklisting:


“Spirit Of The Fiend”
“Death Blessing”
“Through The Speaking Veil”
“Southern Malice”
“Drick Av Döden”
“Unholy Measure”
“Svärtan”
“Darkness Set And Done”
“Digging Up The Hatchet”
“Soul Of The Black Heart”

During an appearance on the Nothing Shocking podcast, TESTAMENT guitarist Alex Skolnick spoke about the progress of the recording sessions for the band's follow-up to 2020's "Titans Of Creation" album. He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "The process has started. It actually started last year. Eric Peterson and I — he's the band's founder and the other guitarist — we started exchanging ideas and working on music last year. And then normally, he and I will get together. He'll work with the drummer. We have this new drummer, Chris Dovas, who's in his mid-20s and just sounds amazing. He's the right age — the age you should be to play drums in this type of music. And it's a lot of fun working with him. So we're at the point now where drums have been recorded, some guitar parts have been recorded. We're working on vocal ideas. And it's definitely — I wouldn't say it's in the homestretch yet, but I'd say we're over the hump and more than halfway there. And it should be wrapped up shortly, I would guess by the fall or at the end of the year at the latest. And then it's definitely coming out next year."

Last month, TESTAMENT singer Chuck Billy told Nikki Blakk of the San Francisco, California radio station 107.7 The Bone that the band's next LP will likely contain 11 tracks along with "some covers".

Regarding the timetable for the completion of the new TESTAMENT album, Chuck said: "We've took off from November last year to write the record. It took a while. We just got in the studio in May and June. So we're finishing up. And right now, once we leave [for tour] in July, we won't really have time until December, which is a good thing. We'll be busy, but we'll have like a week or two between tours to do any extra overdubs or anything. We're gonna live with the record, which is really the first time we get to do this, because usually we'll record it and it's written in stone where now we know… Usually we have Andy Sneap mix it and he's not available. So we kind of have some time to select somebody else. But in that time, we're gonna live with the songs and come between tours to make any adjustments or changes, if we have to… We go to Europe and we come home in August and we start the U.S. tour. So we have 10 days or 11 days there before we start. And then after that, we have about 10 days before we start a European tour with KREATOR and ANTHRAX, and that'll go through December 16th. And then we're home for the holidays. And then we'll start thinking about mixing and finishing, getting it out there next year."

Regarding when TESTAMENT fans can expect to hear the first taste of the new material, Chuck said: "We hope to have a single maybe, just towards the end of the year. Give whoever we select [to mix the album] one song, 'Let's see how you do, see if we're happy,' before we do the whole record maybe. It's a pain in the butt, but it's still a little more convenient for us this time."

As for the musical direction of the new TESTAMENT material, Chuck said: "The record is very aggressive. With this one, we have a new drummer, Chris Dovas, who's really putting a fire under Eric and really, really got some really heavy, fast — I don't know if it's the word 'modern', maybe. I don't know, but… 'Current', how about that? Current-sounding. So, Chris is adding to that.

"I never know what the record is gonna be until we mix it," he explained. "'Cause they're all just individual songs, and I go, 'Okay, they're great.' But until we mix it and listen to it as an album, that's when we realize, 'Wow, this came out better than I thought. Wow, this is really good.' But this one, I'm excited going in before the mix, because I just know each song is one step up from the last record, as far as aggression, maybe."

On the topic of the songwriting process for the new TESTAMENT record, Chuck said: "Chris has been coming out since probably December, maybe a little before that, and going to Eric's house; he's got an electric drum set there. So they've been working, writing, putting all this stuff together. And at the beginning of May, once Eric started tracking, we decided that, let's bring Alex and everybody in' except for Steve [DiGiorgio, TESTAMENT bassist], 'cause he's on tour, let's bring Alex and everybody here to the studio and let's just go through all the music, all the songs and make sure we're all happy with the arrangements. And every song got changed as well. Once Alex got here, we all started putting our heads together till we were all happy with the arrangements. And then he left and we said, 'Okay, Chris, now here's the new stuff. Let's do it and track it.' And he knocked it out last month, and now it's the rest of us that [are tracking our parts]. So we've been a little more thoughtful on this record. We have the time to do it. So I think it's gonna be a killer record."

Speaking about Dovas's involvement in the songwriting process with Eric, Chuck said: "A lot of it is Eric's riffs, but they're put in the proper places or cut out if we don't need it. And it's good for me because I didn't really get to sit with Eric. I just let them guys jam and just come up with as much as you can and we'll sort it out later, which that's what they did. But once Chris came out, then we knew, okay, it has to change or we're gonna just have the same record, and maybe we wouldn't be happy when it was all done. And also Eric's actually been going to New York — he actually went to work with Alex out there, which he hasn't done that in the past. And I think having Chris be available because like Gene [Hoglan, former TESTAMENT drummer] or whoever we worked with didn't have the time to come up as much as Chris has. Chris has spent a lot of time here, which has been good and really pushing Eric to make music. And we're at a point now to where Eric's, like, 'You know what? This has been fun. I think I'm just going to keep bringing Chris out. Let's just keep writing songs. Even after this record's done, let's just keep making songs,' which I think is great because that means we can get a jump on the next record. 'Cause not spring chickens. It's, like, let's get it done now while we can."

As for the lyrical themes covered in the new TESTAMENT songs, Chuck said: "[It's] not as focused [on], like, the aliens, creating mankind and that kind of stuff, but there is some of that. There's a lot. Each song definitely has its own identity lyrically. And again, we're writing stuff that is real, that happens with the environment; we're singing about that again. A.I., we're singing stuff about that. That's a big thing. So, there's always an inspiration for songs. I think it's a little easier. There's so much going on in our world to write about now. It's a crazy world today, so there's a lot of stuff to talk about. And I like singing about what's real and what's going on instead of some fantasy lyrics, because, for me, I think when I sing 'em, I have more conviction, I believe in 'em a little more. And maybe it's easier for me to remember the lyrics live. [Laughs]"

Naming specific tracks, Chuck said: "There's a song, 'Havana Syndrome', which is about the Havana Syndrome. People, look that up. There's 'Infanticide A.I.', which is another song going A.I. direction. And there's actually a slower song. We haven't done a slower song. I'm not gonna say 'ballad', but I'm gonna say a slower song that has a lot of groove and soul, called 'Meant To Be'. And it's like a classic TESTAMENT-type ballad, I guess, if you wanna use that word. But we've got a little bit of everything, but, again, I think it's really sticking to TESTAMENT, having to have some melodic stuff, even though there's some really brutal lyrics and real brutal, more of a death voice. I still put the hook in with more of a melodic hook or something. It's still classic TESTAMENT. If you listen to it, you'll go, 'That's TESTAMENT, but a little more octane to it.'"

Last month, Chuck told Canada's The Metal Voice that he writes most of TESTAMENT's lyrics with Del James. "Del, he works with GUNS N' ROSES," Chuck said. "He's been working with them and wrote with them a long time ago. I think he had big hits like 'November Rain' with them. And we've been working [together] for over 20 years. So I always go down and work with him because I come up with a lot of the ideas and concepts, but he really interprets and gets the right words, how to say what I'm thinking. And we work fast. When we get together, we'll knock out like two songs in a day. So we don't mess around. We get there, say hello to each other, we sit down and we go right to work. It's about what we do."

Chuck also talked about how TESTAMENT's songwriting approach has evolved in the last couple of decades. He said:  "I honestly have to say after I beat cancer [more than two decades ago] and we had the original lineup back together, everything kind of changed because… We've always been in a friendly competition with other artists, watching what's going on and who's doing what. And I think around that point, once we got together and I felt like… I didn't think I was gonna play music anymore, first of all, and once I had the chance to get back with the original band, I felt very blessed, like, 'Wow, I'm getting an opportunity to do what I love to do again, but also with the guys I started with. It's kind of odd that we're gonna go back at this now, maybe try to finish something that we all started together.' And once we did that, it was enjoying our company. We never fight. We never argue. It was just, like, relaxing. And the critics, we didn't care what the press thought or a lot of people. I mean, we wrote for ourselves. So a lot of those records were just making us happy. The songs we were writing, we weren't thinking about, 'Okay, this has to be, for this,' and 'where's our radio song?' and 'What's the fans gonna think if we went and did a ballad?' All that went out the door. And I think over the time, it's really just about making good music, having fun at this point. And every record is a challenge 'cause you always wanna do better and make the next record sound better, have better songs. And I think where we're at today, once again, especially having Chris, the new drummer, we are progressing. Me and Eric actually said, like, I don't know, about three weeks ago, we were hanging out and like I said, the music's pretty aggressive and we're doing some heavy stuff, and he said, 'Did you ever think, in our sixties, we're gonna be playing thrash metal music, writing songs like this?' And I'm, like, 'Actually, no,' but that's a good thing that we still feel young at heart and young in our minds and still we're not struggling to do it."

Last August, Dovas was asked by Pod Scum if it was "unnerving" to step into a group whose list of previous drummers includes such heavyweights as Lombardo and Gene Hoglan. He responded: "It was, especially at first because I knew that a lot of eyes were on me, and also I looked up to the band since I was a kid. Especially Lombardo and Gene — those are two of my favorite drummers right there. So to be put in that situation of taking over for them, I felt like I had a lot of responsibility and a lot of… I felt like I had something to prove a little bit, and I'm still practicing a lot and I just wanna do the best that I can do. Right now I'm not really nervous anymore because I've done two full tours with them now and we're working on the [new TESTAMENT] album and the friendship has been developing now and we all get along super well. They've welcomed me with open arms and it's been great and the fans have been great. I've been putting hours and hours of practice into it to make sure that I can do the best that I could do. And I look up to Dave and I look up to Gene as well, so, yeah, I just wanna play the songs well live and keep making the band sound good."

Asked what his role has been so far in the creative process for TESTAMENT's next album, Chris said: "I don't know exactly what I'm allowed and what I'm not allowed to share yet, but what you've seen publicly, though, right now is that Eric and I have been working on a lot of stuff together. And so it's been really cool to get into their brains, in a way, and how they write stuff. I'm used to people sending me tracks with scratch MIDI drums or programmed drums or something, and I've gotta put my drums to them and then hop on a Zoom call and we can edit things and move stuff around. But with them, Eric and I, he set a timer at one point for, like, 20 minutes and we would just jam random ideas. And then sometimes we'd make mistakes and stuff and that would be cool, and we could take that… It's very organic, though, and it's very involved, I guess. It's a different way of writing and I'm super excited to be a part of that method of writing. And I could see why they're so successful for all these years, now finally being a part of this current writing cycle, I guess."

Prior to joining TESTAMENT as a full-time member, Dovas filled in for Lombardo on the first six dates of TESTAMENT's summer/fall 2022 leg of "The Bay Strikes Back Tour".

US hard rockers, SteelCity, are excited to announce the release of their new studio album, Reverence, out September 20 via Frontiers Music Srl.


The first single and accompanying visualiser, “Walk Away” are out now. Watch the clip below, and pre-order the album here.


Bassist Jason Cornwell and guitarist Mike Floros describe the new single as “a song that will take you back to the late 80s. With its Whitesnake-ish verses and massive layers of harmonies, Walk Away is a song that will become a new favourite-all while giving you that nostalgic feeling of your favourite old school jams.”




“Thunder and Lightning: two words that can be used to describe the incendiary sound that is SteelCity. Thunder by way of a booming, monstrous rhythm section, lightning in the form of heavy, riff-driven guitars, soaring vocals, and lush harmonies” continue Jason and Mike.


This is hard rock music that truly mesmerizes the listener: brash yet sophisticated, unapologetic yet still heartwarming. SteelCity provides an unabashed homage to the golden age of hard rock.


Initially started as a solo project by founding member, principal songwriter, and guitarist Mike Floros, SteelCity evolved into the band that it is today. Their influences include such melodic and hard rock heavyweights as KISS, Europe, and Winger. The name SteelCity is derived from the hard-working, blue-collar, Mid-Western town of Youngstown, Ohio.


By carefully assembling the most skilled, talented rock musicians available, Mike molded a band that became a vaunted force in the melodic hard rock underground. Enter Roy Cathey, lead vocalist extraordinaire. As a member of the early-90s sensation Cold Sweat, his Herculean voice has been appreciated by audiences worldwide.


Holding down the bottom end is Jason Cornwell, an experienced studio and touring musician, “The Boston Bassman” has shared the stage with such luminaries as Eric Martin. Skilled drummer Anthony White, also of Cold Sweat fame, completes the rhythm section.


Rounding out the group is Tony Stahl, whose keyboards bring texture and depth to SteelCity’s songs, thus completing the shape of their sound.





“Reverence” Tracklist:


"I Ain’t Dreamin’ Bout You"
"Hammer’s Fallin’"
"No Angel"
"Dizzy"
"Walk Away"
"B.A.N.K."
"Midnight Dancer"
"Broken"
"Losing Control"
"Blinded"
"The Journey"


"Walk Away" visualizer:





Lineup:


Roy Cathey - Lead Vocals
Jason Cornwell - Bass
Anthony White - Drums
Tony Stahl - Keys
Mike Floros - Guitars


(Photo - Jimmy Taaffe)

About Us, the hard rock sensation hailing from Nagaland, India, have released a visualizer for "EVH", featured on their sophomore album, Take A Piece, out now via Frontiers Music. Watch the clip below:





Following the success of their self-titled debut album in 2022, the six-piece rock powerhouse is set to captivate audiences once again with their infectious sound and undeniable musical prowess: "This album represents a fusion of the influences and experiences we encountered in our journey as both avid art enthusiasts and songwriters. Crafting our second album was not only a euphoric and enjoyable process, but it also involved pouring a significant amount of heart, soul, and love into every aspect. Our sincere aspiration is that this latest release brings immense joy and love to our listeners, particularly our devoted fans, just as it did for us during its creation."




India, known for its rich cuisine, diverse culture, and the vibrant Bollywood film industry, is now making waves in the hard rock scene. About Us stands at the forefront of this movement, alongside other notable bands such as Girish & The Chronicles, and Fifth Note (also from Nagaland). The band has already earned recognition, winning the Best Rock Band category at the MG Nagaland Music Awards (June 23, 2021) and the Music Awards of Nagaland (October 16, 2021).


Take A Piece features ten infectious rock songs that elevate the band's signature sound with more guitars and a heavier approach. The album seamlessly blends immediate and hummable melodies with an energetic and technical instrumental prowess, a testament to the band's collective experience of over 15 years in the local music scene.


Lead singer Sochan Kikon emerges as a standout vocalist with remarkable versatility and interpretative skills. His captivating voice has earned him recognition, including an invitation to appear on a Michael Bolton tribute by the prestigious Frontiers label last year.


About Us once again proves their musical mastery with Take A Piece, solidifying their status as one of the most outstanding new bands in the hard rock genre. The album is a must-have for fans of Steelheart, Winger, Journey, and Boston.





Take A Piece tracklisting:


"Come To You"
"Endure"
"Legion"
"Fire With Fire"
"EVH"
"Reels For Eternity"
"Far Away"
"Hope"
"Beautiful Misery"
"Fortitude"


"Fortitude" video:

Blackened speed metal entity, Wormwitch, will unleash their eponymous fourth studio album tomorrow, Friday, July 26, via Profound Lore Records. The Canadian necromancers are now streaming the upcoming offering in its entirety. The record can be heard below.


Wormwitch sets out to combine a melodic blackened death assault with the ferocity and attitude of crust punk and classic rock and roll, jettisoning the burdens of ceremony and pomp that dominate the genre today.


The album can be pre-ordered in various formats here.




The cover artwork for Wormwitch's eponymous record was created by Abomination Hammer and can be found below along with the tracklisting.





Tracklisting:


"Fugitive Serpent"
"Envenomed"
"The Helm And The Bow"
"Inner War"
"Godmaegen"
"Salamander"
"Wormsblood Necromancy"
"Bright And Poisonous"
"Draconick Sorcerous Canadian Witchknights"


Album stream:





"Draconick Sorcerous Canadian Witchknights" video:





Wormwitch lineup:


Robin Harris: Bass, Vocals
Colby Hink: Guitars
Israel Langlais: Drums


(Photo - Lucien Cyr)

"Upon This Shore" marks the second single unveiled by the pioneering British black metal band, Winterfylleth. It comes ahead of their new album, The Imperious Horizon, set for release on September 13 via Candlelight / Spinefarm.


The stirring new single is complemented by a lyric video from renowned producer and VFX artist, Killian Monson.


Guitarist/vocalist C. Naughton commented on the new single: "The song is about thinking beyond the normal constraints of society and about taking personal responsibility for yourself and those closest to you. It speaks about trying to create a peaceful existence by taking back control from all the subversion, misinformation, and division going on within society. It’s about trying to cut through the prevailing winds and noise that we as people are bombarded with everyday and getting back to what truly matters. Home, friends, family, and the meaningful connections we derive from our interactions with other people."







Forthcoming album The Imperious Horizon features nine new tracks of intense, atmospheric black metal, that further deepen the strength of material in the Winterfylleth arsenal. It's set to be one of the darkest, most enthralling, and most essential records to be released in 2024 and is the first album to feature guitarist and backing vocalist Russell Dobson as a writing member. Russell, who joined the group in 2020 and is also actively involved in the black metal band Necronautical, stepped in following the departure of Dan Capp shortly after The Reckoning Dawn.


The album also features a remarkable guest vocal performance by AA Nemtheanga from Primordial on the track "In Silent Grace.” Alan has had a longstanding connection with the band, and his various projects (Primordial/Dread Sovereign) have shared the stage with Winterfylleth on numerous occasions over the years. After discussing collaboration, the opportunity arose on this album when it became evident that the mood and atmosphere of "In Silent Grace" would be a perfect fit for working together. The result is a powerful and expansive track that showcases Alan's distinctive vocal abilities alongside Winterfylleth's emotive songwriting style.


The album was recorded and produced once again by the legendary Chris Fielding (Primordial, Napalm Death, Conan, Electric Wizard, Fen) at Foel Studios in Central Wales, while the post-production & mastering was overseen by Mark Mynett (My Dying Bride, Rotting Christ) at his Mynetaur Productions suite in Manchester, UK.


Pre-order here.





Tracklisting:


“First Light”
“Like Brimming Fire”
“Dishonour Enthroned”
“Upon This Shore”
“The Imperious Horizon”
“In Silent Grace” (feat. AA Nemtheanga)
“To The Edge Of Tyranny”
“Earthen Sorrows”
“The Insurrection”
“The Majesty Of The Night Sky” (Emperor cover) (Deluxe bonus track)
“In Silent Grace” (AA Nemtheanga solo version) (Deluxe bonus track)


“Dishonour Enthroned” video:





(Photo – Lee Barrett)

Defiled have released a video for "Smoke And Mirrors", the opening track of their upcoming new album, Horror Beyond Horror. Watch the video below:





When it comes to Japanese death metal, there is no shrewder sensei than Defiled. Since they started their training in the world's most vulgar of art forms back in the early '90s, the band have toured everywhere from their native Tokyo to Milwaukee Metal Fest with the likes of Mayhem, Incantation, Morbid Angel and Cannibal Corpse.




Now, after 30 years of destroying the opposition at the highest level, these self-proclaimed samurai of death metal are back with their eighth album. Horror Beyond Horror is the kind of good ol' fashioned ass-kicking that only a true master can deliver.     


Horror Beyond Horror is out September 20 via Season of Mist. Pre-save / pre-order your copy now at this location.


After they first took to the stage in 1995, Defiled needed nearly a decade before finally erupting with wrath on their debut album. But ever since the band's lineup solidified around original member Yusuke Sumita, they haven't  stopped to look back and admire their war path. Horror Beyond Horror comes hot on the heels of the album they released just last year.


Anyone who took The Highest Level at face value will be pleasantly surprised to hear that Defiled have only added another grimy coat of blood to their blade. "To See Behind The Wall" is the final boss on Horror Beyond Horror, but the album's first single wastes no time charging into the fray behind a barrage of old-school death metal. Whether they're slicing, dicing or leaping into a furiously fast solo, the riffs take no prisoners.   


"The path to your elimination", Shinichiro Hamada cries, digging in amidst a flurry of blast beats, before unleashing an ungodly war cry.


"What is behind the wall?", Defiled ask on their new single. "The truth that has been hidden? Our sanity as human beings? Are we, who are inside the wall, now in a world of deceit and madness?"





Tracklisting:


"Smoke And Mirrors"
"Horror Beyond Horror"
"Syndicate"
"The Alchemy"
"Demagogue"
"The Terminal Phase"
"Trojan Horse"
"Spectrum Of Fear"
"The Crook And Flail"

"Replicator Dynamics"
"Equinox"
"The Chains"
"Psychopomp"
"To See Behind The Wall"


"To See Behind The Wall" video:





From the depths of Tokyo's darkest alleys, Defiled have emerged once again, claws sharpened, eyes bloodshot, ready to unleash a fresh dose of unadulterated savagery with their latest full-length studio album, Horror Beyond Horror. Marrying the grotesque with technical prowess, these samurais of sickness are poised to carve another notch into the archives of death metal's sordid history.


Since crawling from the primordial soup of the underground scene in the early '90s, Defiled have forged a path littered with broken souls. Their journey of destruction first sank its teeth into the international jugular with Erupted Wrath, mixed by the masterful Jim Morris in Tampa, Florida. This brutal assault opened gates to a global bloodletting, from leveling stages in South Korea to crushing skulls at the Milwaukee Metalfest, and not even the November to Dismember fest could foresee the carnage they'd bring.


Commandeering the technical tightrope between anarchy and precision, Defiled evolved, much like an aberrant spawn isolated on the Galapagos, grotesque yet ultimately superior. Their subsequent onslaughts — Ugliness Revealed, Divination, and the sheer violence of In Crisis — built a monument to atrocity that ascends to new heights with Horror Beyond Horror.


Taking no prisoners in their three-decades-long campaign of terror, Defiled have become the indestructible behemoth of Asia's death metal scene, powered by the relentless engine of their old school roots and the twisted wreckage of technical thrash and progressive rock innovation.


But enough with the history lesson, you came here for the carnage, didn't you? Horror Beyond Horror is a 14-track massacre, riddled with riffs sharp enough to slit your throat and a rhythmic onslaught that'll pulverize your pathetic bones. Each track, from the visceral "Smoke And Mirrors" to the haunting "To See Behind The Wall", is a calculated strike, precision-engineered to leave no survivors. Let's not forget the eponymous "Horror Beyond Horror", a track that cements Defiled's legacy as harbingers of the apocalypse.


With a sound as raw as exposed nerve endings and as unrefined as a mass grave, Defiled stands defiantly apart from the polished poseurs and shameless sellouts. They don’t peddle in cheap gimmickry or nostalgia; they deal in the currency of pure, unfiltered destruction. As they look out upon the charred landscape of the genre they’ve helped to define, Defiled is not content to rest on their laurels. Horror Beyond Horror sees them, once again, ascending to the blood-soaked throne of death metal sovereignty.

Mexican Ape-Lord have released a video for "Highway 88", a track from the band’s third full-length album, Blunt Instrument, available via Unable Music Group’s new label imprint, 10-31 Records.


Order the album here, and watch the new video below:







From the impact crater of its opening chords to the final subterranean refrain, Blunt Instrument is an exercise in mayhem and madness. The record features the original lineup, with producer Peter Rutcho once again at the controls.





Check out the tracklisting with commentary below:


“Blunt Instrument”: “Evolution, extinction… and sleep paralysis.”
“Kentucky Meat Shower”: “A maniac, inspired by the real Kentucky meat shower of 1876, plans an explosion.”
“Highway 88”: “Alien abduction, the Pig Man, and a demonic hearse.”
“Worm Moon”: “New England settlers bury their winter dead.”
“Down The Mine”: “Desperate men in a hostile landscape.”
“Day Of The Hunt”: “Wild hogs and moonshine in the Smoky Mountains.”
“The Shovel”: “The homicidal caretaker of an abandoned insane asylum is having a bad day.”
“Faraday Cage”: “Havana syndrome meets Theremin's infamous listening device “The Thing.” It ends with a guy guarding a frozen head deep underground because ROCK.”


"Worm Moon" lyric video:





"Kentucky Meat Shower":





"Blunt Instrument":





In 2012 Meliah Rage guitarist/songwriter Anthony Nichols and The Bags vocalist/bassist Jon Hardy teamed up with drummer Steve Fry and lead guitarist Dan Dykes to form Mexican Ape-Lord. The band’s debut album, The Late Heavy Bombardment (Unable Records, 2014) made a slew of top ten lists. BraveWords called it “a balls-out metal album” and True Metal Lives declared “It proudly stands up and gives genre labeling the big middle finger.”


Friends since high school, Nichols and Hardy found success in different branches of the Boston rock scene in the late eighties. After signing to Epic Records in 1988, Meliah Rage went on to release nine albums and built a loyal following over the course of numerous international tours. The Bags won the Boston Rock ’n’ Roll Rumble in 1989, released six albums, and had their song “Cavemen Rejoice” featured on the PlayStation 2 game Guitar Hero.


Just days after completing work on The Late Heavy Bombardment, Nichols suffered a brutal wrist injury and was told he would never play guitar again. After multiple surgeries and years of rehab he returned to writing music and gradually worked his way back into top form. That material became the basis for Mexican Ape-Lord’s second album, Survival Cannibalism (Unable Records, 2020).


The songs on Survival Cannibalism were inspired by a true story of shipwreck and cannibalism that took place on Boon Island, Maine in 1710. “I wanted to get inside the heads of these tormented guys, whose suffering drove them to do the unthinkable,” says Hardy. “It’s an grim subject, obviously, but a great one for Tony, Dan, and Steve, because they are masterful at covering the full range, musically – from utter darkness to the thrill of cheating Death.”


In 2022 the band released Burn Pit (Unable Records), a four song EP exploring some classic Mexican Ape-Lord themes: inner demons, dangerous work, ritualistic bloodshed, and apex predators. “We weren’t about to stop making music just because the world was coming to an end,” says Nichols.

In a recent interview with Metal Swap Meet, Vinny Appice was asked what it was like to work with legendary heavy metal singer Ronnie James Dio in BLACK SABBATH, DIO and HEAVEN & HELL. The 66-year-old drummer responded (transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET):  "It was amazing. He'd be sitting there in the rehearsal room, writing lyrics. We'd be jamming on something, both with SABBATH and DIO, and then he'd go up to the mic and sing a couple of lines. I'd go, 'Holy shit. This sounds like the record's finished.' It was so spot-on and strong, I was, like, 'Oh, man.' And then I watched him the way he worked with the fans. One of the first things I remember, we pulled out of an arena with SABBATH. We had two limos, Ronnie and I in one, and Tony [Iommi, SABBATH guitarist] and Geezer [Butler, SABBATH bassist] would leave early. We would stay and hang out. We pull up, go out of the arena, go up the hill and go to the gates and let us out and there's a whole bunch of fans there. And it's freezing cold out. It's January in upstate New York. Ronnie says, 'Stop,' gets out of the limo, walks over to the fans, starts signing stuff for them. [I thought] 'Wow, that's cool.' So I did the same thing. I wasn't that known back then, but now that's somebody who cares. He cares about his fans. He remembers your name. And it's just amazing. The next year or tour, you'd go see Ronnie, he'd go, Hey, Brian. How are you doing, man?' He remembers your name. And I'd be going, 'Hey, Bob, it's really good to see you.' He remembered everybody's name. It was incredible. He loved his fans. He loved the music."

Vinny has recorded and co-written songs on several dozen albums and CDs, including many multi-platinum records. Vinny's drumming can also be heard on numerous movie soundtracks, including "Wayne's World 2", "Heavy Metal", "Iron Eagle" and "Bedazzled". Vinny, the author of drum instruction book "Rock Steady" and DVD "Hard Rock Drumming Techniques", has performed incredible powerhouse drum clinics around the globe. Numerous books have been written about BLACK SABBATH and DIO with the authors always mentioned Vinny's drumming style.

Vinny's unique drumming approach has influenced many artists over the last few decades. Never one to rest on his laurels, he is constantly putting out new music and is currently recording and touring with LAST IN LINE.

Vinny currently endorses Sawtooth drums, Evans drumheads, Istanbul Mehmet cymbals and Chromacast drumsticks.

The collective of renowned musicians from Norway's west coast henceforth known as Whispering Void is releasing their first ever video single “Vi finnes” (“We Exist”) taken from their forthcoming debut full-length At The Sound Of The Heart. The album has been slated for release on October 18, 2024 via Prophecy Productions. Preorder here.


"The main lyrics in this song are in Norwegian, more specifically in an Eastern dialect of Norwegian, and this creates a slippery and almost untrustworthy character", vocalist Kristian Espedal writes. "The title, 'Vi finnes' means 'we exist', but the lyrics are about us never existing. The words are about the morning, which is an opportunity, and about the hours, which are the repetition of everything that happens all the time but is never the same. There is much hopefulness in this song, and at the end even a bit of suffering. When the lyrics move into English, they steer into a different direction. Ferrucio came up with the idea for the video. The lady in this film is observing life from the past. I like the very subtle connection to the lyrics." 


Lindy-Fay Hella adds: "I love the vibe of the video", the vocalist enthuses. "I like that there is a connection with the song's lyrics, but it also adds a new dimension to it. The haunted house in this video is situated in my neighbourhood and the lady in the video is one of my best friends. She really fits this song. I feel somewhat reminded of the fairy tale 'Goldielocks and the Three Bears'."




It was well known in Nordic traditions that the voice holds magical power. With their debut album At The Sound Of The Heart, a collective of renowned musicians from the west coast of Norway explores and embodies these ancient ways. Guided by music created by guitarist Ronny Stavestrand, each of its members have brought a part of their own background to Whispering Void.


Many different musical strands have been woven into a sonic entity that is both new and greater than the sum of its parts. The distinctive voices of Wardruna vocalist Lindy-Fay Hella and her male counterpart Kristian "Gaahl" Espedal spellbind the listener with an enormous range of techniques and sounds. Ronny Stavestrand and Enslaved drummer Iver Sandøy combine ambient, psychedelic prog, and rock with notes of dark folk and metal on "At the Sound of the Heart" into something essentially Nordic but extending beyond already explored dimensions. 


The ancestry of Whispering Void obviously goes back to the Norwegian metal scene that has been highly productive ever since the so-called second wave of black metal began its triumphant victory march around the globe in the early nineties. Over the following decades, this groundbreaking genre saw several bands rising from underground obscurity to headlining positions at festivals.


The creative spark that lit the fire of Whispering Void burning came from a long time of creating new music by Ronny Stavestrand. The guitarist had shared many years in the legendary underground black metal act Trelldom with outstanding vocalist Kristian "Gaahl" Espedal, who rose to fame with Gorgoroth and has meanwhile also established Gaahls Wyrd as a channel for his creativity. Therefore, it was only natural that Stavestrand asked Espedal to contribute to Whispering Void – to which the latter chose to agree.


While exploring new musical territories together, the need for a female voice arose. Having been part of Wardruna in the early years, Espedal was quick to note that vocal powerhouse Lindy-Fay Hella with her characteristic voice and unique contributions, which she has also shared in her own projects, was the perfect match for Whispering Void. Hella was duly invited and luckily heeded the call.


The quartet was completed by Iver Sandøy on battery and bass, who had put his impeccable musical sensitivity and timing into the service of Enslaved some years back but already made himself a name with the progressive outfit Emmerhoff & The Melancholy Babies.





Tracklisting:


“Vinden vier”
“Vi finnes”
“Whispering Void”
“At The Sound Of The Heart”
“Lauvvind”
“We Are Here”
“Flower”


“Vi finnes” video:





Line-up
Ronny Stavestrand – guitars
Lindy-Fay Hella – vocals
Kristian Eivind Espedal – vocals
Iver Sandøy – drums & percussion, bass, guitar, keyboards 
 
Guest musicians
Ole André Farstad – guzheng, Indian slide guitar on “Vinden Vier”,”Lauvvind”
Matias Monsen – cello on “Whispering Void”, “At The Sound Of The Heart”, “We Are Here”
Silje Solberg – Hardanger fiddle on “Vi finnes”, “The Vines”

In a new interview with Pierre Gutiérrez of Rock Talks, former EXODUS guitarist Rick Hunolt was asked for his opinion of the band's last five studio albums that were recorded after he left the group. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Oh, dude, what do I think about them? I think they're heavy as hell. I think [EXODUS guitarist] Gary Holt is by far one of the best songwriters in all of thrash metal bar none, for sure. He's a beast; Gary's a beast. I will say that I was kind of disappointed when he left to join SLAYER. I will say that. But in the long run, it's done EXODUS a lot of good. It's gotten a lot more fans, yada yada yada. But anyway, to answer your question, I love the material. [EXODUS's latest album] 'Persona Non Grata' is insane. The music is awesome."

Asked what he thought of the Rob Dukes-era EXODUS albums, Rick said: "Rob Dukes brought another level to EXODUS. I think it made it — I'm not gonna say new metal, but I will say more aggressive, over the top, angry. Rob's one of my favorite singers. And, honestly, for the record, if I ever do another thrash band, guess who's gonna be my singer. He already said [he would do it]. I already nailed him down. So, it's all good."

Hunolt — the other half of the famed EXODUS "H-Team" who is on every studio recording from 1985 through 2004 and co-wrote some of the band's best-known songs such as "A Lesson In Violence" and "Deliver Us To Evil" — left EXODUS after the band's highly acclaimed 2004 reunion album, "Tempo Of The Damned". Following his departure, Hunolt was replaced by HEATHEN guitarist Lee Altus.

Rick previously discussed his exit from EXODUS during a November 2021 appearance on "Put Up Your Dukes", the podcast hosted by Dukes. He said at the time: "During the recording of 'Tempo', Gary had just gotten clean a little while prior to that, and I was still using. But I've gotta say, Gary Holt — my hat's off to the man for… He never sweated me. Not once did Gary say, 'Dude, you're a piece of shit. I'm gonna fire you from the band if you don't get your shit together.' He never said nothing. He let it take its course, you know what I mean?

"I was a mess," Rick continued. "We all were, but everybody got better, and I didn't. I fell down the rabbit hole even worse, I think, because I was just so depressed. I couldn't stop. I don't know what was up… To the point where I was gonna lose my position in the band I'd been in for over 20 years — my best friends, my life. Yeah, it was dark as fuck.

"One day, after spending my life, giving everything that I had and the whole world to EXODUS, one day I woke up and I wasn't in EXODUS anymore," Hunolt added. "And that morning was, like… Dude, I can't even describe the emotions that I [was feeling]. I woke up and I wasn't in EXODUS anymore, dude. It damn near took me out, bro."

Rick revealed that he went through a particularly difficult period after splitting with EXODUS. "I had to reinvent myself at 40-plus years old, [with] two little kids," he said. "I ended up moving out of Oakland. I had to get the fuck out of there, 'cause we were living at the studio; it was bad. And then we moved in with my wife's mom and I got a job at the [discount chain] Dollar Tree and I ended up working there for, like, two or three years. I mean, I can go on and on and on. But long story short, I met a guy who knew who I was and offered me a job on his ranch. And the rest is history. He taught me how to live my life and make money."

Hunolt makes a guest appearance on "Persona Non Grata", which was released in November 2021 via Nuclear Blast Records.

The San Francisco Bay Area thrashers' latest disc was the follow-up to 2014's "Blood In Blood Out", which was their first release since the departure of Dukes, the group's lead singer of nine years, and the return of Steve "Zetro" Souza, who previously fronted EXODUS from 1986 to 1993 and from 2002 to 2004.

Back in April 2019, Hunolt rejoined Holt and other EXODUS members Tom Hunting (drums) and Souza to perform several of the group's classic songs during a METAL ALLEGIANCE concert in San Francisco, California. More recently, Hunolt joined EXODUS on stage in August 2021 at Psycho Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The original lineup of EXODUS consisted of guitarists Kirk Hammett (now in METALLICA) and Tim Agnello, Hunting and vocalist Keith Stewart. Holt joined the band in 1981, while Kirk left two years before EXODUS's debut album, "Bonded By Blood", saw the light of day.

In a new interview with Metal Hammer magazine, SEPULTURA guitarist Andreas Kisser and vocalist Derrick Green were asked about their plans for after the completion of the band's ongoing 40th-anniversary "farewell" tour. Andreas said: "I don't know, and it feels great. I want to study acoustic guitar, and to create instructional material on the SEPULTURA music. I've done small things here and there, but not a complete overview of my guitar playing and writing. I will decide when the time comes, but right now it is time to celebrate the moment."

Derrick added: "I want to do a lot more with the TV show I'm working on, 'Highway To Health'. I've also been interested in doing voiceover work in animation or commercials. Musically, I'd like to do something outside of metal with more singing, but if somebody approaches with something I think is intriguing, I'm definitely open to that, because I never want to step away from music."

Asked if Andreas and Derrick will still work together in the future, Kisser quipped: "Nah. We only talk to each other by contract. When the contract is done, we're done. [Laughs] No, of course there are a lot of possibilities. I would love to work with Derrick outside of SEPULTURA. We have the idea for a reggae project on the cards, which we have a great name for. The comfort zone is the worst thing that can happen to an artist. It would be boring to stop SEPULTURA and do something else that is SEPULTURA-like."

As part of their massive "Celebrating Life Through Death" farewell tour, SEPULTURA will hit the road in North America this summer and fall. Joining SEPULTURA on the trek will be Florida-based death metal veterans OBITUARY, iconic New York hardcore pioneers AGNOSTIC FRONT, and São Paulo, Brazil's death/thrash metallers CLAUSTROFOBIA.

SEPULTURA's new touring drummer Greyson Nekrutman officially replaced SEPULTURA's longtime drummer Eloy Casagrande in February.

SEPULTURA kicked off its farewell tour on March 1 at Arena Hall in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. The sold-out show marked the band's debut performance with Nekrutman, who previously played with SUICIDAL TENDENCIES.

The 22-year-old Nekrutman is one of the most explosive young players in the drumming world, having garnered a legion of fans since bursting on to the international music scene just a few short years ago.

SEPULTURA announced Eloy's departure on February 27, explaining in a statement that he was leaving to join "another project", with Eloy later confirming that he is the new drummer of SLIPKNOT.

The news of Eloy's exit from SEPULTURA came just two months after the band announced it would celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2024 by embarking on a "farewell tour" which will cover the entire globe.

In SEPULTURA's statement, the remaining bandmembers expressed their shock over Casagrande's departure, saying they were "taken by surprise" that their now-former drummer would "abandon everything related to SEPULTURA" less than a month prior to the start of the tour.