Italian melodic metallers Temperance will perform a very special show this spring, which will be recorded for a future DVD release. The band will take the stage in the picturesque setting of Teatro Sociale in Alba, Italy, on April 29th, a theatre show which marks an important milestone in Temperance's fast rising career, following the release of the critically acclaimed third album The Earth Embraces Us All. Tickets are already available at this location.

Temperance recently released a video for the song "A Thousand Places", taken from their new album, The Earth Embraces Us All. Check it out below.

The Earth Embraces Us All was released on September 16th via Scarlet Records. The album artwork has once again been made by Gustavo Sazes (Kamelot, Arch Enemy, Morbid Angel).

Tracklisting:

“A Thousand Places”
“At The Edge Of Space”
“Unspoken Words”
“Empty Lines”
“Maschere”
“Haze”
“Fragments Of Life”
“Revolution”
“Advice From A Caterpillar”
“Change The Rhyme”
“The Restless Ride”

Singer Chiara Tricarico comments: “This is without any doubt the most complex and mature album we’ve ever done. It basically gave us the chance to add many new elements to our music. Most of the songs in our previous albums were short and straight to the point, these new ones are longer and stylistically challenging, it takes time to fully grasp their essence. The Earth Embraces Us All is the natural evolution of our musical path, we are very proud of it, I think it represents us well!”

Nick Beggs (Steven Wilson, Steve Hackett), Roger King (Steve Hackett) and Marco Minnemann (Joe Satriani, Aristocrats) will return as The Mute Gods with their forthcoming second album, ...tardigrades will inherit the earth, set for release on February 24th. A lyric video for the album track, “We Can't Carry On”, can be found below.

Following the release of 2016's debut album 'do nothing till you hear from me', and a Progressive Music Award 2016 win in the Vanguard category, the trio deliver adventurous rock effort infused with timely perspectives on the state of religion, politics, media, and the environment.

The Mute Gods examine these and other major queries facing our planet on its second album for InsideOut Music. It's a darker, deeply thought-provoking follow-up to its acclaimed 2016 debut recording 'Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me'. It picks up from where the first album left off, with its examination of societal control mechanisms, and looks at the inevitable outcomes should we continue down dark, dogmatic pathways. Musically, the album is an expansive rock effort with a heavier, more metal-oriented focus than its predecessor, yet steeped in melodicism and addictive hooks.

Nick Beggs had this to say: "I know I'm not the only person who feels the way I do. Other people understand the state of the world and what's at stake as we make one terrifyingly bad decision after another. This album asks people to take off their rose-tinted spectacles and consider the reality facing us. At this point in my career, I feel strongly that it's important to use music as a vehicle for truth, not just feel-good entertainment."

The album will be available as a limited edition CD digipak (with bonus track), gatefold 2LP + CD & digital download.

Tracklisting:

“Saltatio Mortis”
“Animal Army”
“We Can't Carry On”
“The Dumbing Of The Stupid”
“Early Warning”
“Tardigrades Will Inherit The Earth”
“Window Onto The Sun”
“Lament”
“The Singing Fish Batticaloa”
“Hallelujah” (bonus track)
“The Andromeda Strain”
“Stranger Than Fiction”

“We Can’t Carry On” lyric video:

Nick Beggs had this to say about the song “We Can’t Carry On”: “‘We Can't Carry On’ is a reflection of the times in which we live. Caught between war and political madness, something has to give."

The Mute Gods was founded in 2015 by Beggs, a celebrated bassist, Stick player, songwriter and vocalist who has sold more than three million records with his own groups. His contributions also grace the work of myriad artists and genres, including progressive rock, pop, Celtic, funk, and soul.

Beggs records and tours with Steven Wilson, one of the best-selling alternative rock artists of this generation, as well as Steve Hackett, formerly of Genesis. In addition, Beggs has worked with legends across the pop and rock worlds, including Belinda Carlisle, John Paul Jones, Gary Numan, Kim Wilde, Englebert Humperdink and Seal. In the progressive rock realm, he's also performed with Steve Howe, Iona, Lifesigns, and Rick Wakeman.

Unlike the debut Mute Gods album, which included many special guests, Beggs chose to keep this release to the core trio ensuring a laser focus and consistency throughout. Roger King, the album's keyboardist and producer, also works with Beggs on Hackett's sold-out world tours. King has long been Hackett's right-hand man, serving in production, arrangement and writing capacities for the guitarist. Marco Minnemann, considered one of the most important, explosive drummers of our time, has worked with Beggs extensively on many Wilson tours and recordings.

(Photo credit: Lewis Duncan, Thanuwatt Mewone and Hajo Müller)

Wisconsin based death metal unit Burial Ritual have released a new single titled “New Order Rising”. The track is streaming below. Download the track on iTunes.

Burial Ritual comments on the single and more: "‘New Order Rising’ is our next step forward. We strive to make enjoyable, old school inspired songs with our own unique flavor, and this new single accomplishes that. We're very happy to have it set the tone for the next album."

 
Burial Ritual is in the studio working on the follow up to Genocidal Theory and wanted to kick off 2017 as heavy as possible with some new tunes for everyone to enjoy. This is just the beginning of what’s to come from Burial Ritual so make sure to keep an eye out for more.

The official lyric video for the song "Bury My Dead" from the British rock outfit AS LIONS can be seen below. The track is taken from the band's debut full-length album, "Selfish Age", which will be released on January 20 via Better Noise Records.

Said AS LIONS vocalist Austin Dickinson (son of IRON MAIDEN singer Bruce Dickinson): "'Bury My Dead' is a song about leaving your past behind you. It's very close to my chest because, in starting AS LIONS and beginning this new adventure, there were a lot of things that I had to leave behind, both as a musician and as a person. I think the same can be said for all people, in all walks of life.

"In our existence, the only constant is change and sometimes we have to say that final goodbye to the burdens that can no longer teach us or push us. That's one of the many ways in which we grow.

"I had so much fun writing this, and I truly hope you enjoy blasting it too!"

Fans who preorder the album will instantly receive "Bury My Dead" along with "Aftermath", "White Flags", "Deathless", and "World On Fire". The pre-order for the album is available on iTunes, Amazon and Google Play.

"Selfish Age" is the follow-up to AS LIONS' debut EP, "Aftermath", released last year. Helmed by award-winning producer David Bendeth (OF MICE & MEN, PARAMORE, BRING ME THE HORIZON) and Kane Churko (FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, DISTURBED, IN THIS MOMENT), "Selfish Age" is an illustration of the band's mission to create "the biggest, baddest hard rock we could, and on an almost cinematic scale." The album's 11 dynamic tracks are a study in contrasts, with the epic and evocative "Aftermath", the crushing "Deathless", which targets the Internet culture's obsession with image, "Bury My Dead", a hard-hitting personal statement complemented by stately piano tinklings, and the electro-tinged title track, "Selfish Age".

Comprised of Dickinson, guitarist and keyboardist Conor O'Keefe, guitarist Will Homer, bassist Stefan Whiting and drummer Dave Fee, AS LIONS are the evolution of British rock. Having played sold-out shows in the U.K., AS LIONS left its imprint on the States during its recent U.S. arena tour with FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, SHINEDOWN and SIXX:A.M.

"Selfish Age" track listing:

01. Aftermath02. The Suffering03. Bury My Dead04. Deathless 05. Selfish Age06. White Flags07. Pieces08. World On Fire09. One By One10. The Fall11. The Great Escape

AS LIONS was formed after the breakup of Austin's previous band, RISE TO REMAIN, which released one album, "City Of Vultures", in 2011.

Guitar icon Zakk Wylde has debuted a video for the track "Lost Prayer" from his latest solo LP, "Book Of Shadows II". Directed by longtime collaborator Justin Reich, it's the second video installment we've seen from Zakk from "Book Of Shadows II".

Over the summer, Wylde released the "Sleeping Dogs" music video featuring SLIPKNOT and STONE SOUR frontman Corey Taylor. That track has gone on to become the most successful Active Rock radio single of Wylde's career, reaching as high as No. 15 in the U.S. and No. 5 in Canada.

Regarding the inspiration for the "Book Of Shadows" albums, Zakk told Billboard: "When we're doing the heavy stuff, which we love doing during a normal BLACK LABEL mass [concert], we'll still do some mellow stuff in the middle of the show, whether we do 'In This River' and other things, but then it's back to the heavy stuff. Once you get your fill of that, then you're, like, 'I want to do some mellow stuff,' and then vice versa. Because I'm sure after we tour this record, it's going to be, like, 'Man, I can't wait to do the heavy stuff.' So I really dig doing it. As much as I love listening to [LED] ZEPPELIN doing 'Black Dog', I also love them doing 'Going To California'."

Wylde will hit the road next week with ZAKK SABBATH for three shows in Southern California including a third annual stint at the official NAMM party at The Grove Of Anaheim on Saturday, January 21. ZAKK SABBATH has also been confirmed for a handful of spring and summer festivals, including MMR-B-Q, Rocklahoma and the recently sold-out Rock On The Range.

ZAKK SABBATH — which performs only classic BLACK SABBATH songs — includes Zakk, bassist Rob "Blasko" Nicholson (OZZY OSBOURNE, ROB ZOMBIE) and drummer Joey Castillo (DANZIG, QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE).

Zakk will participate in the 2017 "Experience Hendrix Tour" alongside Billy Cox, Buddy Guy and Kenny Wayne Shepherd.

Australian extreme metallers THY ART IS MURDER were rejoined by their former singer CJ McMahon earlier tonight (Saturday, January 14) on stage at the Unify festival in Tarwin Meadows, South Gippsland, Victoria, Australia.

Addressing the crowd at the show, McMahon said that he "was a drug addict" who "got married and did some fucking soul searching" during his twelve-month break from the band. He went on to say (see video below): "Now I'm back to take over the world."

When his departure from THY ART IS MURDER was first announced back in December 2015, McMahon explained that touring had "taken a massive mental, emotional and physical toll" on him. He added: "One of the biggest reasons is money. We have been broke for years, and being 32 years old, I can't live like this anymore."

CJ said at the time that each member of THY ART IS MURDER only earned between $16,000 and $18,000 a year. "I feel there is something massively wrong with this," he said. "I will not live like this anymore."

In their own statement, THY ART IS MURDER said at the time that McMahon's decision had come after "much conjecture and ambiguity" and that it was "unfortunate that, with our best year to date and our biggest paved out before us, that he has decided to leave."

But they continued: "Touring as hard as we do does take its toll on you physically — but more importantly mentally and emotionally.

"We have been so fortunate over the last two years to carve out a small income thanks to so dedicated and generous fans around the world.

"For some people, it comes to a point where that income is no longer enough for their personal goals, and that point has come for CJ.

"THY ART is what we have done with all of our adult lives and we have put absolutely everything we have into the band. Unfortunately, not everyone can share this fire."

In the past twelve months, THY ART IS MURDER toured the world with the help of several guest singers, including MOLOTOV SOLUTION's Nick Arthur, BLIND ORACLE's Brodie Paul, Monte Barnard (THE KENNEDY VEIL, ALTERBEAST) and "The Racket" host/ex-COLOSSVS vocalist Lochlan Watt.

THY ART IS MURDER's third album, "Holy War", entered the official Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) chart at position No. 7 — the highest-ever position for an Australian extreme metal act. The Sydney-based band has generated controversy for the strong anti-religious stance of the title track's video, as well as the album cover which features references to a suicide bomber.

"Holy War" was released in Australia via UNFD and in other parts of the world through Nuclear Blast.

SAINTED SINNERS, the new band featuring former ACCEPT singer David Reece, will release its self-titled debut album on February 24 via El Puerto Records. The group's lineup is rounded out by guitar player Frank Pané, keyboardist Ferdy Doernberg (AXEL RUDI PELL) and the dynamic rhythm section of the two former PURPENDICULAR members Malte Frederik Burkert (bass) and the Hungarian drum maestro Berci Hirleman.

The third trailer for "Sainted Sinners" is available below.

Expressing the "pure essence of rock'n'roll", was the ambition that paired five well-known and experienced musicians together in early 2016, to create and play the music which is deeply inside their hearts and in their blood. The love for rock legends, such as DEEP PURPLE, LED ZEPPELIN, RAINBOW, WHITESNAKE, UFO, BLACK SABBATH, VAN HALEN and many others, built the cornerstone for the music of the new founded five-piece called SAINTED SINNERS.

"The idea first started with me thinking about forming a band where I can follow my natural taste of music without compromises. I was writing music and then basically formed the band around who would fit the direction it was going", remembers Pané, whose first step was to contact his former bandmate Reece. "Being one of my alltime-favourite singers, he was my obvious choice. It just clicked immediately and so we agreed to lead the band together as we trust and respect each other."

"Sainted Sinners" track listing:

01. Knight Of The Long Knives02. Beauty In The Beast03. Maybe She's Got Balls04. We're All Sainted Sinners05. Blue Lightning Man06. The Love That I Have Found07. Did You08. In Need09. Evangeline10. Shine Diamond Girl11. Truth Is A Lie

The eleven tracks on "Sainted Sinners" were written and produced by Pané and Reece, partly recorded at Sound Design in Germany with Robbie Hochwind during mid-summer 2016, as well as in early fall 2016 by Mario Percudani at the Tanzan Music Studios. The final mastering was done by Daniele Mandelli at Tanzan Music Studios in late fall 2016. "I feel a very strong sense of pride! I feel it's a great representation of who I and we are", summarizes Reece, who calls the eleven tracks colorful. "Concerning the logistic distance between everybody and the fact that we just started as a band, it's a very promising debut with many albums to follow", rejoices Pané.

The fifth studio album from Eclipse, Monumentum, will be released on March 24th. The album track "Vertigo" is available for streaming below.

Two years after the successful release of the Armageddonize album around the globe, Eclipse have established themselves as rising stars with audiences in Australia, Japan, America, and Europe (including the 3.5 million viewers who saw Eclipse's debut on Swedish national television at Melodifestivalen 2016).

With the musical development and maturity shown across the board on their last two albums, Bleed And Scream and Armageddonize, the future has become clear: these guys are destined for stardom! And now with their new album, aptly entitled Monumentum, band's amazing abilities are truly on display for the world to hear.

After touring extensively for two years in support of Armageddonize, Eclipse's main songwriters Erik Mårtensson and Magnus Henriksson reconvened in Erik's new studio in the Swedish countryside in late summer 2016 and started writing new songs. The intention was to write and record an album with no compromise on either song quality or musical performance from the band.

Singer, songwriter and producer Erik Martensson says: "With every album, one's way of writing music changes a bit. What you thought was exciting and interesting while writing one album can radically change when you start writing the next. I think we have brought in quite a few new tricks in the writing and recording process while still staying true to our sound. In the end, it all boils down to if it's good or bad songs and I think this is the best album we've done. In my opinion there is not one single weak song on the album and I'm really proud of it!"

Monumentum tracklisting:

“Vertigo”
“Never Look Back”
“Killing Me”
“The Downfall Of Eden”
“Hurt”
“Jaded”
“Born To Lead”
“For Better Or For Worse”
“No Way Back”
“Night Comes Crawling”
“Black Rain”

Eclipse lineup:

Erik Mårtensson - lead vocals, guitars
Magnus Henriksson - guitars
Philip Crusner - drums
Magnus Ulfstedt - bass

Frontiers Music Srl will release "Don't Let Up", the new studio album from NIGHT RANGER, on March 24. The disc will be available in both a standard edition and a deluxe edition (featuring bonus track and bonus DVD — physical format only).

The song "Somehow Someway", taken from "Don't Let Up", can be streamed below.

Says NIGHT RANGER bassist and vocalist Jack Blades: "'Somehow Someway' is all NIGHT RANGER. It not only captures the spirit of our live shows but also is the essence of who we are and who we have been for the last 35 years — a kick-ass American rock and roll band… Case closed."

Adds NIGHT RANGER drummer and vocalist Kelly Keagy: "The song 'Somehow Someway' is an up-tempo rocker with an infectious, big guitar lick. Take caution while you're driving in your car, you may find yourself going WAY over the speed limit. Check it out!"

States NIGHT RANGER guitarist Brad Gillis: "Our new single, 'Somehow Someway', is a rockin' barnburner up to the standards of our first single, 'Don't Tell Me You Love Me'. This could be a great song to perform live and add to our setlist....Enjoy!!"

NIGHT RANGER truly epitomizes the sound of the '80s, while at the same time transcending it. Since their reunion in 1996, they have brought their guitar heavy, melodic brand of hard rock into the 21st century with their unparalleled talent, energy, and creativity.

The new album, "Don't Let Up" was self-produced by the band.

"The 'Don't Let Up' album is the result of five musicians living and breathing rock 'n roll 24 hours a day. 35 years on and NIGHT RANGER is once again ready to let the fans know 'it's only rock and roll, but I like it,'" says Blades of the new album.

Keagy adds: "Working on the material for the new album "Don't Let Up" was a great experience once again. I always look forward to creating music with Brad, Eric, Keri, and Jack. I'm really looking forward to playing some of this material for the fans. It rocks!"

States Gillis: "I'm looking forward to the new NIGHT RANGER studio effort 'Don't Let Up' as it's always a pleasure releasing new material to keep the bands creative flow. As typical for NIGHT RANGER, we have all the elements that made us popular in the first place, including twin-lead-vocal tradeoffs with Jack and Kelly and dual guitar harmonies and solos with my new partner in crime, Keri Kelli. We've stacked the deck again with up tempo driving rock songs, mid tempo tunes and a few acoustic ballad tracks. We're hoping this new album will be added to your existing NIGHT RANGER catalog!!!"

With more than 17 million albums sold worldwide, over 3000 live shows performed, and more than 1 billion in radio audience, NIGHT RANGER has both epitomized and transcended the arena rock sound and style of that era and beyond. With songs that have significantly impacted popular culture and continue to expand their ever-growing fan-base, NIGHT RANGER is proof that powerful songs, plus accomplished musicians is the perfect formula for continued success.

NIGHT RANGER has earned widespread acclaim, multi-platinum and gold album status while leaving their indelible mark on the music charts with a string of best-selling albums ("Dawn Patrol", "Midnight Madness", "7 Wishes", "Big Life" and "Man In Motion"), its popularity fueled by an impressive string of instantly recognizable hit singles and signature album tracks.

NIGHT RANGER is Jack Blades (bass, vocals), Kelly Keagy (drums, vocals), Brad Gillis (lead and rhythm guitars), Eric Levy (keyboards), and Keri Kelli (lead and rhythm guitars).

"Don't Let Up" track listing:

01. Somehow Someway02. Running Out Of Time03. Truth04. Day And Night*05. Don't Let Up 06. Won't Be Your Fool Again07. Say What You Want08. We Can Work It Out09. Comfort Me10. Jamie11. Nothing Left Of Yesterday

* Bonus audio track on deluxe edition

* Bonus DVD: Band Interviews; "Running Out Of Time" (video); "Day And Night" (Video)

German death metallers, Deserted Fear, have launched a video for the new song “Open Their Gates”, off their upcoming album, Dead Shores Rising.

The band comments, “While you guys are freezing your asses off, we are reminiscing about our last summer. With our latest video, we would love you to take part in our trip to nature – maybe this will distract you from those low temperatures. It got pretty hot and sometimes things happen to be different than you thought, but see for yourselves. One thing is for sure, summer will come! With these words in mind, enjoy 'Open Their Gates'!”

Dead Shores Rising will be released through Century Media Records on January 27th and will be available as Special Edition Digipak, Ltd. Edition Gatefold LP and as digital album. The Digipak includes a patch and two bonus tracks of which one features guest vocals of Tomas “Tompa” Lindberg (At The Gates) and the vinyl comes with LP booklet and poster.

Dead Shores Rising tracklisting:

“Intro
“The Fall Of Leaden Skies”
“The Edge Of Insanity”
“Open Their Gates”
“Corrosion Of Souls”
“Interlude”
“Towards Humanity”
“The Carnage”
“Face Our Destiny”
“Till The Last Drop”
“Carry On”

Bonus tracks:
“A Morbid Vision”
“The Path Of Sorrow”

“The Carnage” static video:

“Face Our Destiny” video:

The band has also announced official album release shows with special guests Desaster. Here are the exact dates:

January
27 - Aalen, Germany - Rock It *
28 - Jena, Germany - F-Haus **
29 - Essen, Germany - Turock *

* with Desaster & Rogash
** with Desaster & Torment Of Souls

Deserted Fear is:

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

 

 

The official lyric video for "Sacrificial Kill", a brand new song from death metal veterans SIX FEET UNDER, can be seen below. The track is taken from the band's twelfth studio album, "Torment", which will be released on February 24 via Metal Blade.

There's plenty of classic SIX FEET UNDER groove to be had on "Torment", but fans will note a much more aggressive approach, and even more modern blast beats throughout. This is a cantankerous SIX FEET UNDER with absolutely nothing to prove. This is SIX FEET UNDER at its most deadly.

"Torment" was brought to life by Chris Barnes with bassist/guitarist Jeff Hughell (BRAIN DRILL) shouldering the load of writing the music, along with heralded drummer Marco Pitruzzella (BRAIN DRILL, ANOMALOUS, SLEEP TERROR). The combination of Barnes's multi-decade death metal experience and the speed and precision of Hughell and Pitruzzella's relative youth go a long way to cementing this as a solid foundation for high-level death metal. This is immediately apparent in the first track "Sacrificial Kill" and expanded further right away in the second track "Exploratory Homicide". Both Hughell and Pitruzzella are allowed to play their style of metal with a unique SIX FEET UNDER flair. That's what makes "Torment" a unique and welcome addition to the band's stories catalog.

Barnes states about "Torment": "I've been lucky to have a lot of standout albums in my career. That's only because I've had a great many talented writing partners and musicians to collaborate with. Our new album, 'Torment', to me, is one of those albums. Jeff Hughell has provided the flammable material for me to write some explosive lyrics and vocal parts to.

"I know people always say, 'This is my best album ever,' and I won't say that, because everyone has their own favorites, but I do enjoy creating new music, and I feel as though with this one we expressed concisely and to the fullest the duality of our music. I have also found it important over the years, going back to the start of my career, that the artwork for our albums gets to express, on some level, what the experience is within. To do that this time around, we were able to incorporate an amazing new artist, Septian Devenum, to take on the task of visually bringing this album to life.

"Every song on the album is depicted with a piece of artwork that explores the lyrical content of each song, similar to what we did for the packaging for our album 'Bringer Of Blood'.

"'Torment' has been a great album to work on and help create, we hope all of our fans appreciate it."

"Torment" track listing:

01. Sacrificial Kill02. Exploratory Homicide03. The Separation Of Flesh From Bone04. Schizomaniac05. Skeleton06. Knife Through The Skull07. Slaughtered As They Slept08. In The Process Of Decomposing09. Funeral Mask10. Obsidian11. Bloody Underwear12. Roots Of Evil

SIX FEET UNDER's new album was mixed by Chris "Zeuss" Harris and was previously described by Barnes as "the most brutally intense, groove-laden masterpiece we've ever put together!"

SIX FEET UNDER last month completed the "X-Mas in Hell Tour 2016" in Germany where the band celebrated the 21st anniversary of its debut album, "Haunted", by performing the LP in its entirety.

Metalcore heavy hitters EMMURE will release their new album, titled "Look At Yourself", on March 3. The follow-up to the 2014's "Eternal Enemies" marks EMMURE's first release with SharpTone Records.

The cover artwork for the album can be seen below.

"Look At Yourself" track listing:

01. You Asked For It02. Shinjuku Masterlord03. Smokey04. Natural Born Killer05. Flag Of The Beast06. Ice Man Confessions07. Russian Hotel Aftermath08. Call Me Numb09. Major Key Alert10. Turtle In A Hare Machine11. Torch12. Derelict13. Gucci Prison

To give listeners a taste of what they can expect from "Look At Yourself", EMMURE has released two songs off the album, which can be streamed below.

"Look At Yourself" represents a coming of age for EMMURE, a new chapter in an aggressive autobiography that stretches back to the band's very first album, released when vocalist Frankie Palmeri was barely out of his teens. It's infused with a brutal self-examination and observation, balancing hate, bile and perseverance, with the tempered experience of a life spent in pursuit of self-reliance and respect, from within and without. It's expressed in a crushing cacophony of riffs that never fail to super-serve the forward-motion groove of EMMURE.

The new lineup of EMMURE made its live debut on April 22 in Oberhausen, Germany. Joining Palmeri in the band's latest incarnation are guitarist Josh Travis (GLASS CLOUD, ex-THE TONY DANZA TAPDANCE EXTRAVAGANZA), bassist Phil Lockett (ex-THE TONY DANZA TAPDANCE EXTRAVAGANZA) and drummer Josh Miller (ex-GLASS CLOUD).

EMMURE pulled out of a series of U.S. shows in October 2015 "to focus on other things," which was then followed by bassist Mark Davis, lead guitarist Jesse Ketive, rhythm guitarist Mike Mulholland and drummer Adam Pierce leaving the band. Davis later told AltPress.com about his departure from the group: "There is no time or room for negativity in life. If someone is bringing you down or holding you back from your full potential, it's time to cut them out, no matter how much you may love them."

Palmeri released a statement earlier in the year in which he said he regretted saying "a lot of stupid shit" in the past. He said: "Over the years, specifically the last decade, I have done a pretty good job at painting myself as an egotistical, psychotic, moronic douche. I did and said a lot of stupid shit, a good portion of which I look back [on] with embarrassment and regret. I have grown so much as person and I like to think there is still chance for people to understand that everyone grows differently and at their own pace. I am still growing, but I am not the person people have made me out to be. I look forward to reconnecting with all the fans who have stuck with EMMURE through the years and just over all excited about the future."

EMMURE's last full-length album, "Eternal Enemies", was released in April 2014 via Victory Records.

The previously announced SOUNDGARDEN documentary has been scrapped in favor of a film about the career of the band's lead singer, Chris Cornell.

Back in 2014, the team behind documentaries on RUSH, Alice Cooper and the history of heavy metal revealed that they were making a film on SOUNDGARDEN. Banger Films duo Scot McFadyen and Sam Dunn were said to be working on the SOUNDGARDEN documentary with Canadian indie director Reg Harkema, who previously collaborated with them on "Super Duper Alice Cooper". Harkema said at the time that his film would focus to some degree on the notion of SOUNDGARDEN "having these punk rock ideals and then dealing with becoming 'metal rock stars.'"

But in a new "Ask Me Anything" session on Banger TV's YouTube channel, Dunn revealed that that the SOUNDGARDEN documentary is no longer in the works. He explained (see video below): "We, unfortunately… We were in a long development phase with the band, and we put the call out to fans and people who love the band and had photos and memorabilia in their collection — things that we might be able to use for the film — but, unfortunately, kind of at the last minute, the one-yard line, if you will, the plan kind of fell apart. Not everyone in the band wanted to do the film. That's the crux of it. Now, we are — although it's not officially being announced yet, but I'll say it anyway — is we will be doing a Chris Cornell documentary, which I'm really excited about because, although one fourth of SOUNDGARDEN, this is a guy whose career is obviously a huge part of the SOUNDGARDEN story and vice versa. But also his story goes far beyond SOUDGARDEN, obviously with AUDIOSLAVE and then with his own solo project. So, in a sense, we will be telling, to some extent, the story of SOUNDGARDEN through Chris's film, but it will, of course, be about much more than that."

A couple of years ago, SOUNDGARDEN guitarist Kim Thayil spoke to Alternative Nation about the proposed band documentary, saying: "I haven't seen any footage yet, but we have a general idea, an outline. We imagine it'll be chronological, and maybe a bit autobiographical. [chuckles] I don't know, I haven't seen anything yet, but I imagine it'll be very good. The guys who I understand are working on it are fantastic; they make some great documentaries."

Banger Films' other documentaries include two on heavy metal, 2006's "Metal: A Headbanger's Journey" and 2008's "Global Metal", 2010's "Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage" and 2009's "Iron Maiden: Flight 666", as well as the TV documentary miniseries "Metal Evolution".

Amsterdam-based metal band THE CHARM THE FURY will release it sophomore album, "The Sick, Dumb & Happy", on March 17 via Nuclear Blast / Arising Empire.

The cover artwork for the follow-up to 2013's "A Shade Of My Former Self" can be seen below.

Commented the group: "This record is a cross-section of the metal sound we hope will resurrect in the next ten years — a return to thrash roots, headbanging anthems, and tried-and-tested songwriting that made metal so great back in the '80s and '90s.

"We found Robert Sammelin via an app, saw his work and immediately knew that this was our guy. He still hand-draws his designs, creating some completely surreal comic-style images. While working with him we actually found out that he did key artwork for 'Battlefield 1', which is crazy. We gave him the rough idea for the spiral eyed skull, the color scheme and blood spatters was all his idea. We wanted something different and we feel he created a completely unique piece, better than anything we could come up with."

THE CHARM THE FURY has matured since their debut. With several of Europe's biggest festivals under their belts, they have transformed their sound into a startling slab of ultra-modern but utterly distinctive metal that shrewdly and honestly redefines what THE CHARM THE FURY is all about. Driven by a collective distaste for the state of the world in the 21st century, the band recorded an angry album underpinned by ferocious intelligence and a heartfelt desire to wake people out of their digital stupors.

THE CHARM THE FURY is:

Caroline Westendorp - VocalsMathijs Tieken - DrumsRolf Perdok - GuitarMartijn Slegtenhorst - GuitarLucas Arnoldussen - Bass

US thrashers Trauma have announced Joe Fraulob as their new guitarist and songwriter.

Says the band: “Joe has been in many bands over the years and has toured the globe. He was in Danzig and Deconstruct. Trauma is very pleased to have Joe on board touring and writing new material!"

Trauma are confirmed for 70000 Tons Of Metal, taking place February 2nd - 6th.

Trauma drummer Kris Gustofson stated: "Trauma is delighted and honored to be playing on the 70000 Tons Of Metal cruise with some of the best bands in metal. This is going to be a blast and we look forward to putting the pedal to the metal."

Tons Of Metal will sail February 2nd – 6th, 2017 onboard Royal Caribbean’s luxurious Independence Of The Seas which will be leaving from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to an all new Caribbean dream destination: Labadee, situated on the northern coast of Haiti, featuring pristine beaches, coral reefs and lagoon-like bays surrounded by forested mountains. Soar over the Dragon's Breath Flight Line, the world's longest zip line over water! Propel down the 300 foot long waterslides, get your adrenaline fix on the Dragon’s Tail Roller Coaster, cool off in the Arawak Aqua Park, or kick back and relax at the cabanas on Nellie’s Beach.

Sunday February 5th, 2017 is #SuperMetalSunday! Start off the best Sunday of the year with Heavy Metal bands from around the globe playing concerts on 4 different stages. Think you can make a splash? Participate in the infamous 70000 Tons Belly Flop Contest which is judged by a panel of artists! Witness Heavy Metal history in the making with Jamming With Waters In International Waters - the official 70000 Tons Of Metal All Star Jam. Don’t forget your jerseys because the NFL Championship Game will also be screened on board! Not enough action for you? Throw in multiple workshops and Artist Clinics, and end the cruise with 70000 Tons Of Karaoke for a final sing along until the sun rises!

Every Artist on board 70000 Tons Of Metal 2017 will play two shows - once on the way to Labadee, and once on the way back to Florida, presenting fans with the opportunity to see 120 shows, including some exclusive performances.

Bands confirmed for the event include: Amaranthe, Amorphis, Annihilator, Anthrax, Arch Enemy, Avatarium, Axxis, Cattle Decapitation, Cruachan, Death Angel, Demolition Hammer, DevilDriver, Draconian, Dying Fetus, Equilibrium, Ghost Ship Octavius, Grave Digger, Haggard, Kalmah, Kamelot, Marduk, Misery Loves Co., Moonsorrow, Mors Principium Est, Nightmare, Nile, Omnium Gatherum, Ordan Ogan, Orphaned Land, Pain, PowerGlove, Psycroptic, Revocation, Saltatio Mortis, Scar Symmetry, Serenity, Stam1na, Stuck Mojo, Suffocation, Testament, Therion, Trauma, Trollfest Uli Jon Roth, Unleashed, Vreid, and Xandria.

Los Angeles, CA progressive rock triumvirate Cosmosquad will return to L.A.'s venerable Baked Potato for a live double header this Saturday, January 14th to inaugurante 'The Morbid Tango', the group's first new studio album since 2007's highly acclaimed Acid Test. Sets will commence at 9.45pm and 11.30pm, respectively; fans will be able to advance purchase physical copies of the album at the show.  
 
The Morbid Tango features founding members Jeff Kollman (Bombastic Meatbats, Glenn Hughes, Mogg/Way) on guitar and Shane Gaalaas (B'z, Diesel Machine, MSG) on drums, along with new addition Kevin Chown (Tarja, Bombastic Meatbats, Paul Gilbert) on bass whose musical association with Kollman goes back to the Edwin Dare days in the early '90's.
 
States Gaalaas: "Well, it took awhile for the Cosmos to align itself once again but some things just happen all in good time….. Chime in Kevin Chown! From our early writing jams, it was evident we were onto something profoundly cosmic.  We could’ve easily made 3 records from all the ideas we had… just flowed out naturally and uninhibited.  We used a couple of first takes live off the floor in there which rarely happens these days but, it just worked!  This record feels right for me because it incorporates so many things that I love about music.  Firstly, being spontaneity and synergic energy.  It’s like the soup broth: If you get that right off the bat, you’re in good shape.  There are some masterful arrangements that really take the listener on a ride.  Akin to life, it paralleled so much of the roller coaster craziness we had going on during this time and really stretches some stylistic boundaries far into the abyss.  The guys played their asses off musically and Jeff’s guitar brilliance takes it another step beyond.  I love the balance between old school raw organic and modern production electronica.  I think we found a nice recipe of both to keep the listener interested and curious as to what will happen next."

The Morbid Tango was conceived and recorded at Crumb West Studios in Simi Valley, CA, produced by the tandem of Shane Gaalaas and Jeff Kollman, and mixed by Gaalaas, with guest contributions coming from top LA session musicians Jeff Babko on keyboards, David Collier on percussion, and Jono Brown providing strings.

Tracklisting:
 
“Morbid Tango”
“Cyclops”
“The Ballad Of Rick James”
“Anatomy Of A Beatdown”
“Recollection Epilogue”
“Always Remember The Love”
“The Crosses”
“Still Life”
“Sangfroid”
“Beyond Death's Door”
“Beyond Death's Door Reprise”
 
The song “Recollection Epilogue” is currently streaming at this location. The Morbid Tango mashup reel can be viewed below:

Australian negative metal act Rebel Wizard overcome genre boundaries with their most recent full length offering as mastermind NKSV coalesces his black and thrash metal roots with swatches of NWOBHM and epic power metal to form Triumph Of Gloom.

The album will be re-released by Prosthetic Records on February 24th and will include a previously unheard bonus track, "Defenders Of The Gloom".  

Tracklisting:

"On The Unknown Self They Weep"
"Where We Surrender Completely To The Miserable Shaman"
"Trampled By Wolves And Sheep"
"Ease of Wretchedness And Wonder"
"A Spell Of Sorrow To Relieve The Curse Of Triump"
"Eat The Warlock"
"Sorcerery"
"Hemorrhage Wonders"
"Defenders Of The Gloom" (bonus track)

Pre-orders are now available including the first ever vinyl pressing, limited to 300 copies on blue / burgundy / black swirl variant. North American customers should click here, while European purchasers should visit this location.

Rebel Wizard have debuted the album's first single, "Trampled By Wolves And Sheep", with the following astral themed music video.

 

Post-metal outfit Junius have revealed their first new music in over three years with their new full-length album, Eternal Rituals For The Accretion of Light (ERAL) due out March 3rd via Prosthetic Records.

The album marks the completion of their conceptual trilogy which began in 2009 with their evoking LP The Martyrdom Of A Catastrophist, followed by 2011's Reports From The Thresholds Of Death. Next in line was Junius' latest release, the 2014 EP Days Of the Fallen Sun.

Recorded, mixed and mastered with longtime friend and producer Will Benoit (Caspian, Rosetta, Ellie Goulding), Eternal Rituals For The Accretion Of Light takes inspiration from Elisabeth Haich's autobiography Initiation, whilst touching on topics including karma, reincarnation and spiritual development across it's ten melodically divine tracks. Following the departure of former member Mike Repasch-Nieves (guitars), the album was entirely wrote and performed by vocalist / guitarist Joseph E. Martinez, excluding drums / percussion which were completed by Dana Filloon. The album also features guest appearances from Drew Speziale (Circle Takes The Square) and Gian Minardi (General Public).

Tracklisting:

"March Of The Samsara"
"Beyond The Pale Society"
"A Mass For Metaphysicians"
"Clean The Beast"
"All That Is, Is Of The One"
"The Queen's Constellation"
"Telepaths & Pyramids"
"Masquerade In Veils"
"Heresy Of The Free Spirit"
"Black Sarcophagus"

Junius will celebrate their new album with a short headlining run surrounding it's release in early March, followed by an extensive North American tour later this Fall; dates and venues have yet to be announced.

Abhorrence's comeback to the live arena after 23 years of lying in wait in the grave took place in the black summer of 2013. Svart Records were also there, capturing all 35 minutes of the bone-grinding mayhem and cadaveric incantations spewn forth from the stage. After an unholy gestation period, the live material is now being let out to wreak havoc and cause grievous bodily and mental harm to the general public. Abhorrence are still old school, still undead and unclean. This will all be proven by Totally Vulgar - Live at Tuska Open Air 2013, set for international release on February 10th via Svart Records. 

Formed in 1989 in Vantaa, Finland, Abhorrence split up the following year and guitarist Tomi Koivusaari went on to start Amorphis. Abhorrence were one of the very first death metal bands in Finland, and their brief original run resulted in only one demo recording and the self-titled EP, released in 1991 on Seraphic Decay Records. In 2012, Svart Records put out a compilation titled Completely Vulgar, consisting of the EP, the demo, plus live and rehearsal material. The success of the release made Abhorrence rise up from the grave and play a few shows, one of them at the Tuska Festival. This album presents the entire show professionally recorded. The band played a tight set of vintage material, and vocalist Jukka Kolehmainen mentions the most valid reason for releasing it on an album: "At last these old songs sound as they should have sounded back in the day."

The release of Totally Vulgar and a set of live appearances during 2017 also mark the end of an era, says Kolehmainen: "With this album and live rituals, we lay the old songs to their tomb. Then it is time to face new, upcoming dark depths and see what secrets lurk therein." In the meantime, feel the totally vulgar force of Abhorrence live with the track "Pestilential Mists" via Svart's Soundcloud.

Cover and tracklisting are as follows:

"Intro - The Cult"
"Pestilential Mists"
"Holy Laws Of Pain"
"Devourer Of Souls"
"Caught In A Vortex"
"Adoration Of Abscessed Cadavers"
"Pleasures Of Putrid Flesh"
"Disintegration Of Flesh"
"Vulgar Necrolatry"

 

Former Eclipse Eternal frontman Voldamares recently announced the formation of his new band, Hexeklad. Their new song  "A Path To Ruin", takern from the forthcoming debut Spirit Of The Stone, is streaming below.

Voldamares checked in with the following 22016 update:

"Currently we are in the process of mixing/mastering for our album, Spirit Of The Stone, and we hope to have it completed in early 2017. Once we are satisfied that it is as perfect an album as what we think it is then we will begin looking for a label that will be able to give it the exposure that we think it deserves. Also, we are currently in the midst of gathering forces, bringing in like-minded individuals to form a live lineup. Yes, we are coming for you. What was once heading towards a recording only project has evolved and is branching out, spreading its limbs towards the skies that all may see and bear witness. We have not been idle.

Our main accomplishment this year is that we have completed the recording of our debut album, Spirit Of The Stone. A dark folk/black metal album that is the amalgamation of all the best of all the bands we’ve worked with before along with our current main influences which range from Dissection to Moonsorrow, from Primordial to Hypocrisy to Insomnium. Thrashy at times, folky at times, black metal throughout, the songs are dark yet empowering, melodic yet deep and full of meaning. This album is our crowning achievement this year.

Aside from including all previously mentioned main members, this album also includes drums by former member Sterling Dale, bass by Alex Snape (Unbowed), keyboards by Carver (Eclipse Eternal) and on several tracks, cello by Raphael Weinroth-Browne (The Visit, Musk Ox).

This album has been many years in the making so we are extremely proud of having completed it. We hope to have a sample for you to listen to next week when we will also give you an update on what our future plans are. Till then, keep the fires lit and the Mead flowing."

Hexenklad is:

Timothy Johnston (Voldamares) - vocals
Michael Grund - guitars
John Chalmers (The Ancient One) - guitars

Go to this location for information and updates on Hexenklad.

Photo by Victoria J. Polsoni

The official lyric video for the song "Give Me 250ml" from former KYUSS frontman John Garcia can be seen below. The track is taken from his new studio album, "The Coyote Who Spoke In Tongues", which will be released on January 27 via Napalm Records.

Normally you would expect some heavy guitars, pounding drums and fuzzy tunes from Mr. Garcia. But not this time, as his new effort is something extremely special and presents him stronger and more emotional then he has ever been.

Recorded and mixed by Steve Feldman and Robbie Waldman, mastered by Gene "The Machine" Grimaldi at Oasis Mastering in California, "The Coyote Who Spoke In Tongues" offers an emotional acoustic ride through Garcia's solo work as well as songs by KYUSS in new arrangements like you have never heard before!

Garcia comments: "This record is one of the most important of my career, difficult and challenging to do, but worth every minute of sweat!"

With longtime desert and touring fellas Ehren Groban on the acoustic guitar, Greg Saenz on percussions and bassist Mike Pygmie, "The Coyote Who Spoke In Tongues" will be a must-have for every fan of the desert rock and KYUSS era, and will come with artwork by Jared Conner.

"The Coyote Who Spoke In Tongues" track listing:

01. Kylie02. Green Machine03. Give Me 250ml04. The Hollingsworth Session05. Space Cadet06. Gardenia07. El Rodeo08. Argleben II09. Court Order

Former MORBID ANGEL frontman David Vincent will release his debut outlaw country single, "Drinkin' With The Devil", next month on seven-inch vinyl via Chicken Ranch Records. The song, which features a guest appearance by guitar legend Danny B. Harvey (HEADCAT, WANDA JACKSON, NANCY SINATRA), was recorded with legendary producer Gene "Machine" Freeman at The Machine Shop in Austin, Texas.

Pre-order your copy now in either (limited-edition) red or black.

As the legendary voice of the genre-defining extreme metal purveyors MORBID ANGEL, Vincent's unapologetic rebel approach has been a force in the music world since the mid 1980s. Following his unexpected departure from the band in 2015 and subsequent relocation to the Lone Star State of Texas, his musical direction has also taken a big step "out of the box." Inspired by the immersion into his new Hill Country surroundings and the Lone Star culture, he began composing music in a dirty, organic Texas country outlaw style, perhaps reminiscent of the original country outlaw performers in the 1970s.

Vincent spoke to SkullsNBones.com last year about how his country project came about. "Just like most musicians, I listen to and am inspired by all types of music," he explained. "When I moved to Texas, I found myself immersed in this scene, kept an open mind to it all, and found new inspiration by some of the artists around here. I began writing songs, man; [it's] as simple as that. I know it's not what many people would expect from my career in metal, but it's still me, you know. I'm still as open as I've ever been, and I'm still as passionate with this material as I was with anything else I've ever done before…. It's my take on things, and it's different than what you'll hear from most of the other acts in this genre."

Vincent added that he expected a large portion of the MORBID ANGEL fans to be resistant to his new musical output. "There's a lot of people who see this 'metal' guy trying this new thing and may not give it a shot, but the ones I've shared it with have been really impressed," he said. "A lot asked why I didn't do this sooner, and it's simple; people find their way to things when they find their way to things. It doesn't mean that I'll never play metal again, by any means, but this is where my heart is at right now, so I want to put out the best material I can, and have fun with it. We have a lot of cool stuff coming up that may surprise some people, but it's all about writing the best songs, and having fun. That's where I'm at right now, and I'm pretty damn happy."

As previously reported, Vincent has joined forces with ex-MORBID ANGEL drummer Tim Yeung and guitarists Bill Hudson (CIRCLE II CIRCLE, TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA) and Ira Black (METAL CHURCH, LIZZY BORDEN) to perform classic MORBID ANGEL songs under the I AM MORBID banner.

The new band, which will play material from MORBID ANGEL's "Altars Of Madness" (1989), "Blessed Are The Sick" (1991), "Covenant" (1993) and "Domination" (1995) albums, has scheduled two shows in Brazil this spring: March 24 in Belo Horizonte and March 25 in São Paulo. Additional dates will be announced soon.

Photo courtesy of Chicken Ranch Records

The NSFW video for "My Church Is Black" from ME AND THAT MAN, the "blues, country and folk" project led by BEHEMOTH frontman Adam "Nergal" Darski, can be seen below. (WARNING: The clip includes partial female nudity.)

The project — in which Nergal is joined by British/Polish musician John Porter on guitar and backing vocals — will release its debut album, "Songs Of Love And Death", on March 24 via Cooking Vinyl.

Nergal puts away any preconceived ideas about what heavy music "should" be with the release of this side project.

The duo draws heavily on blues, country and folk to make music as dark as if it was being screamed over shredding guitars. "Songs Of Love And Death" is a dark journey through sun-bleached, dusty plains, soundtracked by low-slung acoustic guitars and steeped in the rawest essence of rock and blues.

The duo's debut will prove to be a revelatory affair for BEHEMOTH's huge global fan base, while simultaneously luring many more people into Nergal's artistic world. Fans of everything from Nick Cave, DANZIG, Leonard Cohen, and Johnny Cash's American Recordings, through to the grim, frontier polemic of WOVENHAND will find countless mesmerizing moments on the album. "This album is not meant to turn ME AND THAT MAN fans into BEHEMOTH fans," Nergal notes. "If one day they follow, okay. Something like 'My Church Is Black' is a strong declaration, a song that naturally invites people from the extreme metal world, and perhaps they'll want to enter this world too. They might even like it. With ME AND THAT MAN, I'm telling simple stories in a simple way, not overloaded with metaphors and hidden meanings. It's just got to be as natural, organic and stripped down as it can be." He further explains: "With ME AND THAT MAN, the songs just come out in a very organic way. One would be bluesy, one would be more of a ballad, but put together they all made sense.

"I need ME AND THAT MAN to keep the balance, as the potential of my mother band seems limitless. It gets bigger and bigger, more advanced and more sophisticated... and darker ...and blacker. But ME AND THAT MAN is at the opposite pole, artistically speaking. With all the best art, once you have it in you, you have to release it, otherwise it becomes intoxicating and dangerous to your own system. This is how I deal with my emotions and my dark feelings and shadows. This is not happy music, but it's liberating. "This is a side-project, but I don't really know what it's going to grow into," Nergal concludes. The idea was just to get this music out to people. There's no hidden agenda. It is what it is, and if you like it, it's cool. If you don't, that's cool too. This is the battle we've already won." Plans are underway for a series of live dates in Europe around the release of the album and across the U.S. in April/May. "Songs Of Love And Death" features artwork by Daniel P. Carter and is available for pre-order now.

"Songs Of Love And Death" track listing:

01. My Church Is Black02. Nightride03. On The Road04. Cross My Heart And Hope To Die05. Better The Devil I Know06. Of Sirens, Vampires and Lovers07. Magdalene08. Love & Death09. One Day10. Shaman Blues11. Voodoo Queen12. Get Outta This Place13. Ain't Much Loving

"Let Me Out", the debut single from former SISTER SIN vocalist Liv "Sin" Jagrell, can be streamed below. The track was produced by longtime U.D.O. bassist Fitty Wienhold and will be featured on Liv's debut solo album, "Follow Me", which will be released on April 28 via the Swedish label Despotz Records. The effort was co-produced by longtime ACCEPT and U.D.O. member Stefan Kaufmann.

Liv says of the track: "The song is about what a person is willing to do and sacrifice to take themselves out of a destructive situation, sometimes with fatal consequences. We see it every day, the desperation in the world is spreading out and gets people to behave irrationally.

"It feels incredibly good to release this single and finally show what we've been working on. I've found a really good gang of new band members and we can't wait for the world to hear our songs and to come out and play live."

From the gutters of south Sweden, Jagrell emerged as a major force as the vocalist for hard rockers SISTER SIN. Throughout their 13-year career, SISTER SIN sold thousands of albums and toured the world with high-profile tours supporting the likes of SLAYER and KING DIAMOND on the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival, as well as being a part of the Revolver magazine "Hottest Chicks In Metal" tour. SISTER SIN toured relentlessly for over a decade across Europe and North America garnering an intensely loyal following of rockers that craved the band's aggressive and melodic brand of hard rock.

When SISTER SIN called it quits at the end of 2015, Liv knew that she had much more to give to her fans. From this, LIV SIN was born. Liv's new music shows the power, sexiness, and attitude that she is known for.

Liv said: "For me, it has never been an option to stop singing. I live for the stage and for my fans. I still miss SISTER SIN, but I am very excited to work on my own project, and I can promise it will not be some soft pop rock. This is going to be metal deluxe, because that's who I am!"

LIV SIN offers a modernized hard rock sound to take Liv into her next phase, a sound that is destined to please both new fans and her longtime fans of SISTER SIN.

"Follow Me" track listing:

01. The Fall02. Hypocrite03. Let Me Out04. Black Souls05. Godless Utopia06. Endless Roads07. Killing Ourself To Live08. I'm Your Sin09. Emperor Of Chaos10. Immortal Sin11. The Beast Inside

Liv recently told East Texas Music Scene about the end of SISTER SIN: "There are no hard feelings, but the parting wasn't exactly mutual. Neither me nor Dave [Sundberg, drums] wanted to end the band. We totally understand that not everyone felt that way and you can't force people to play with you. So it was probably for the best before something got infected 'cause of people touring even if they were too burnt out from it."

BREAKING BENJAMIN's video for the song "Never Again" can be seen below. The track is taken from the band's latest album, "Dark Before Dawn", which sold 141,000 copies in its first week of release to enter The Billboard 200 chart at position No. 1. The sales number was the best single-week sales mark of the band's career, with 135,000 of those made for physical CDs.

"Dark Before Dawn" features BREAKING BENJAMIN frontman Ben Burnley leading an all-new lineup of the group, which has been expanded from a quartet to a five-piece.

Burnley fired two earlier members in 2010 over a legal battle, while a third member departed in 2013.

Burnley also struggled with a mysterious illness during the band's six-year hiatus, which he told The Pulse Of Radio might be the result of the excessive drinking he used to do. "I used to drink a lot, and I think it must have something to do with that because back in 2007, I stayed up drinking for three days straight — this is after already months and months of drinking heavily — and I woke up and I just felt really sick, like alcohol poisoned, and I was like, I should've probably gone to the hospital but I didn't, and I went onstage and when I went onstage I almost collapsed from being just so sick. And basically that was 2007 and it hasn't gone away."

Burnley unveiled BREAKING BENJAMIN 2.0 in 2014, with the lineup consisting of drummer Shaun Foist, bassist Aaron Bruch, former RED guitarist Jasen Rauch and ex-ADELITAS WAY guitarist Keith Wallen.

The official video for "Scatterbrain", the title track of the sophomore album from KXM, the project featuring drummer Ray Luzier (KORN), bassist/vocalist Doug Pinnick (KING'S X) and guitarist George Lynch (LYNCH MOB, DOKKEN), can be seen below. The disc will be released on March 17 via Rat Pak Records.

The follow-up to KXM's 2014 self-titled debut is currently available for pre-order via the Rat Pak web site in various bundles, including signed CDs and t-shirts.

All fans who pre-order the album through the Rat Pak web site will be entered to win a one-of-a-kind custom guitar as well as other prizes.

"Scatterbrain" was recorded at the Steakhouse studio in North Hollywood, California. The 13-track effort was helmed by Chris "The Wizard" Collier (FLOTSAM AND JETSAM, PRONG, LAST IN LINE), who also produced KXM's debut. From the infectious riff of the album opener "Scatterbrain" to the outro of "Angel", KXM has created something truly special and musically diverse. Songs like "Breakout", "Calypso" and "True Deceivers" are sonically different from each other, taking the listener on a musical journey.

"Scatterbrain" is thematically a darker record than the debut. The album builds upon the developed KXM rock sound but this time includes some different dynamics drawing inspiration from prog, ska, punk and metal. Through it all, it remains undeniably KXM. Recorded over the span of ten days, every song on "Scatterbrain" was the result of a musical jam from all three members playing together in the same room. Luzier explains: "We wanted to use the same formula as the first KXM record: book studio time, come in fresh every day with a new idea and run with it and not overthink anything." Lynch describes the sessions as record-topia: "We showed up in the studio, camped out with a bunch of gear and let the tape roll! Just like the first album — no pre-production, no rehearsal, no pre-written songs." Pinnick adds: "The vibe was like a bunch of old friends having fun creating music like the previous record — nothing but fun!" "Scatterbrain" track listing: 01. Scatterbrain02. Breakout03. Big Sky Country04. Calypso05. Not A Single Word06. Obsession07. Noises In The Sky08. Panic Attack09. It's Never Enough10. True Deceivers11. Stand12. Together13. Angel KXM takes its name from the combination of the members' other projects: K from KORN, X from KING'S X and M from LYNCH MOB.

In an interview with Revolver magazine, Luzier, Lynch and Pinnick spoke about how KXM came together.

"I had a birthday party for my son and invited a bunch of friends and musicians," Ray said. "Doug and George ended up in my home studio picking up my guitars and jamming around a bit. George said, 'We should all do a record together sometime,' and I said, 'That would be a dream come true!'

"I've been a huge KING'S X fan for decades and have been following George and had respected his playing for decades. We just tried to figure out everyone's schedules to make it happen. I give it up for George for being so persistent in getting this going. KORN tours all year, every year, and with Doug and George's crazy schedules, it's just awesome that we made it happen. I'm very pleased with the result."

Pinnick added: "George was the instigator. Ray and I have known each other for quite a while and always talked about doing something together, but George brought it up at Ray's party and we agreed. George got after it and Ray did the same! Before I knew it, we were in a studio in the mountains, got a record deal, a video and a CD. As they say in Texas, 'You gotta get after it!' George has an incredible amount of energy and humor, and he gets things done. I've learned a lot from him. He's a true genius with the heart of a saint — and he comes up with some crazy guitar parts."

Lynch said: "When you're working as a pro musician in L.A., you're frequently running into other players who you know and respect. A lot of times, the 'dream band' conversation comes up. It's fun to talk about. A lot of times, it's the alcohol talking. But the reality for most of us is that we're locked into other commitments and obligations that in the cold light of day don't really afford us the time or flexibility to pull off these projects that look great on paper.

"I'm not trying to take credit here, but I gotta honestly say I was determined to follow through and at least push hard enough to see if we could get any momentum going. Ray jumped right in and was obviously really excited about making it happen, despite his insanely busy schedule with KORN. I think for Doug, it was sort of like, 'Well, yeah, sure, I'll invest some time and energy into this,' but I don't think he realized how profound and potentially musically rewarding and even important KXM could become. But as the writing and recording started to happen and evolve, he became like a little kid in a candy store!"

Greek melodic power metal masters FIREWIND, the group led by guitar wizard and OZZY OSBOURNE band member Gus G., will release their eighth studio album, "Immortals", on January 20 via the band's longtime label partner Century Media Records in Europe.

The official lyric video for the song "Back On The Throne", taken from "Immortals", can be seen below.

"Immortals" marks the first time FIREWIND used an outside co-producer, having worked with Dennis Ward (UNISONIC, PINK CREAM 69), who not only engineered, mixed and mastered the album, but also co-wrote it together with Gus G.

Gus G. said: "'Immortals' [is] the first concept album FIREWIND has ever made.

"Since we're from Greece, we thought it would be a cool idea to make a concept of Greek history and heritage. So on this album we focused on the legendary battles of Thermopylae and Salamis during the second Persian invasion of Greece in 480 B.C.

"The artwork was once again created by our longtime collaborator, Gustavo Sazes, and we feel it reflects the vibe we tried to capture on this album — epic, powerful, glorious, everlasting."

"Immortals" track listing:

01. Hands Of Time02. We Defy03. Ode To Leonidas04. Back On The Throne05. Live And Die By The Sword06. Wars Of Ages07. Lady Of 1000 Sorrows08. Immortals09. Warriors And Saints10. Rise From The Ashes

The official video for the song "Ode To Leonidas" can be seen below. The clip was recently shot with the iCode team (KAMELOT, DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT, MOONSORROW) in Serbia.

Gus stated about the song and the video: "As many of you have found out by now, our new album 'Immortals' is a concept and focusing on the battles of Thermopylae and Salamis. The song 'Ode To Leonidas' is obviously about the legendary warrior King of Sparta and his heroic battle with his 300 brave men against the massive Persian army invaders. "For the production of the clip, we traveled to Belgrade, Serbia and filmed with iCode team (same team that directed my solo video 'The Quest' and so many other great bands) and we're really amazed by the end result. It's truly epic! We hope you will enjoy too. Heavy metal fans — unite!"

In addition to the standard jewel case CD and digital download formats, "Immortals" will be released as LP on 180-gram vinyl with a poster as well as the entire album on CD as bonus. Additionally, there will also be a limited-edition mediabook CD with expanded booklet, a bonus track and three stickers.

In order to support the release of "Immortals", FIREWIND is set to hit the road across Europe.

"Immortals" marks FIREWIND's first release with singer Henning Basse (METALIUM, SONS OF SEASONS), who previously toured with the band on various continents in 2007 and was most recently the singer in Gus's solo touring group.

Said FIREWIND in a statement: "Since [2014], [Henning] started playing some shows with Gus G.'s solo band and he delivered amazing performances, stunning the crowds all over Europe! Henning is an amazing frontman and a personality that totally fits with what FIREWIND is all about."

FIREWIND celebrated its 10th anniversary by releasing a live album in June 2013 via Century Media Records in Europe. Titled "Apotheosis - Live 2012", the CD contained 17 songs recorded at special anniversary shows in Greece as well as all over Europe during the band's "Few Against Many" tour in 2012. It marked FIREWIND's final release with singer Apollo Papathanasio, who decided to leave the group at the end of 2012.

FIREWIND toured in 2013 in support of "Apotheosis - Live 2012", with Kelly Sundown Carpenter (ADAGIO, BEYOND TWILIGHT) handling lead vocals on the trek.

MEMORIAM, the new Birmingham, United Kingdom-based death/grind metal band featuring Karl Willets (BOLT THROWER) on vocals, Frank Healy (BENEDICTION, CEREBRAL FIX) on bass, Scott Fairfax (CEREBRAL FIX) on guitar and Andy Whale (BOLT THROWER) on drums, will release its debut album, "For The Fallen", on March 24 through Nuclear Blast Records. It will contain eight tracks, including "War Rages On", "Resistance" (both featured on "The Hellfire Demos I") and "Surrounded (By Death)" (featured on "The Hellfire Demos II"). The album's impressive artwork was created by Dan Seagrave (BENEDICTION, DISMEMBER, HYPOCRISY, SUFFOCATION).

Dan stated about the artwork: "Starting from the band's thoughts on visualizing a kind of funeral procession with a theme of combat, war and in conjunction with the title 'For The Fallen', as with all my works, I then attempt to make the information evolve in my mind's eye, and allow imagination to take over those elements but retaining the core concept. The painting thus depicts a funeral procession moving through a long-wartorn cityscape. Twisted shards of towers and buildings. A cathedral facade stands defiantly, yet riddled with destruction and decay. At closer insp,ection the structures all seem to be infected with an element of natural decomposition, as if organically inclined to fade with the demise of the season, the season itself lost in a timeless void. The figures appear as remnants of once soldiers, now strange in their gathered mass, drawn forwards by the drifting momentum of the procession. Unaware of their emaciated state they follow the commander. The commander's elongated appearance is tattered and almost creature-like, with the combat-style elements and gasmask falsely presenting as a costume. The procession appears almost ghost-like, ancient and serene, slowly moving through this eerie place as if forever. Far in the background there might still be a war happening, but perhaps in another time. As we view a sublevel of reality, lost in the present, captured in light, where the war had passed through and we are left in a ghost biology, where chemicals and history meet to create an inescapable surrealism."

To give a first taster of what to expect from this highly-anticipated record, the first single from "For The Fallen", "Reduced To Zero", can be streamed below.

Willetts stated about the track: "'Reduced To Zero' is a comment on the times that we live in. In a world that is dominated by fear, hatred and intolerance, the song is a direct result of Brexit and Trump and the general rise of right wing nationalistic xenophobia."

Pre-order "For The Fallen" now digitally and receive "Reduced To Zero" instantly.

"For The Fallen" track listing:

Digi

01. Memoriam02. War Rages On03. Reduced To Zero04. Corrupted System05. Flatline06. Surrounded (By Death)07. Resistance08. Last Words

LP

Side A

01. Memoriam02. War Rages On03. Reduced To Zero04. Corrupted System

Side B

01. Flatline02. Surrounded (By Death)03. Resistance04. Last Words

MEMORIAM was primarily developed to fill the void that was left following the tragic death of Martin "Kiddie" Kearns, the drummer from BOLT THROWER, back in September 2015. BOLT THROWER subsequently placed all activity on hold for the foreseeable future which gave Karl Willetts an opportunity to develop a new project with friends that had expressed interest in forming a band for some time.

MEMORIAM is an old-school death metal band, maintaining the standards set by their previous bands, focusing on the themes of death, loss and war. Initially, the bandmembers got together to play covers of songs that had influenced them throughout their careers within the death metal scene. However, it soon became apparent that the new songs that they created were of a superior standard.

Photo credit: Gobinder Jhitta

"Coming Home", the new video from former WHITE LION singer Mike Tramp, can be seen below. The song is taken from his tenth solo album, "Maybe Tomorrow", which will be released on February 24 via Mighty Music/Target Group. The LP is without doubt one of the Danish singer/songwriter's finest efforts so far, and the nature of the music is deeply personal.

"Maybe Tomorrow" was recorded at Medley Studios in Copenhagen, Denmark, once again with Tramp's trusted partner Søren Andersen behind the knobs and on guitar. Mike was backed by the same band in the studio: Morten Hellborn on drums, Jesper Haugaard on bass and Morten Buchholtz on Hammond and piano.

Tramp states about the follow-up to 2015's "Nomad": "When people ask me, why I have made a new album and what it's about, I find myself dumbfounded or even lost for words. To me, what I do is who I am.

"It might have taken me quite a while to reach this place where I feel so at home, and also where I belong. A place where my music is simply an extension of who I am. It might not sound that interesting or mysterious! But in what other way can I express that my songwriting and music is the truthful life of Mike Tramp? I don't want to be anything else or try anything new. I am a torchbearer of my heroes and an offspring of my inspirations. I have not only moved away from the past, but I have grown and I have made my stand.

"When I listen to 'Maybe Tomorrow', I don't just see myself, I now also see my faithful audience that have grown with me, and that is the best feeling of them all." Tramp recently finished another one of his massive U.S. tours, and will be touring Europe extensively to support "Maybe Tomorrow". "Maybe Tomorrow" will be released worldwide on limited-edition blue-color LP (500 copies), black LP, CD and as a digital download.