Rush has just launched a lyric video for their classic "2112: Overture" below:

2112 has been newly-remastered on 200-gram, heavyweight vinyl at legendary Abbey Road Studios using the Direct to Metal Mastering (DMM) audiophile copper plating process, all from original analogue masters. RUSH's fourth album, 2112, first released in 1976, proved a breakthrough, highlighted by its seven-part title suite - written by Lee and Lifeson, with lyrics by Peart - recounting a dystopian story set in the year 2112. It came in at #2 on Rolling Stone's list of 'Your Favorite Prog Rock Albums of All Time.' Most Rush fans consider it the band's definitive recording and it has sold over 3 million albums in the U.S., going triple-platinum.

This unique reissue showcases a custom, limited-edition, hand-etched hologram of the 'Red Star of the Federation' pressed in the album's dead wax runout of side two. To reveal the spinning hologram, fans can use any focused source of light, such as the LED flashlight on a smartphone, directly above the turntable while playing.

 

Rush frontman Geddy Lee recently sat down with Music Radar and went through a track-by-track overview of the band's critically acclaimed fourth album, 2112, released in 1976. An excerpt is available below:

Lee: “It begins with the 'Overture', which – despite being the first thing you hear – was the last piece to be written, much like with any classical overture. We wanted to take the most important musical threads from each of the subsequent parts to create a ‘new’ piece of music that would represent the album as a whole. So that’s where it all starts.”

“And then 'The Temples Of Syrinx' sets the scene, because 2112 is about a totalitarian society that controls everything about your life, including the music that you hear. It manufactures it all, so that’s what we wanted to say with this track. It sets up the hierarchy in this futuristic world that we’ve arrived in.”

“'Discovery' is where the hero of the story finds a device in a cave. It’s a guitar, but he doesn’t know it because they don’t exist in his time period. So he picks it up and realises that it’s a device that can make music and create sounds. Previous to that point, everything he’d ever heard had been provided to him by the people that run his world.”

Go to this location for the complete list.



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According to Nationallawjournal.com, Led Zeppelin face a May 10th trial over claims that they ripped off another artist to make the iconic song “Stairway To Heaven”.

Lawyers for Jimmy Page, Robert Plant and John Paul Jones could go to trial after failing to settle a copyright infringement lawsuit filed by the trustee of the late Randy Craig Wolfe, better known as Randy California of the band Spirit. Wolfe drowned off the coast of Hawaii in 1997, but a trustee for his estate has sued Led Zeppelin and the three band members, plus music publishers Super Hype Publishing Inc. and Warner Music Group Corp. The 2014 suit claims that Led Zeppelin, which opened for Spirit in the 1960s, copied a musical composition Wolfe wrote called “Taurus.”

“A lot of songs written by Led Zeppelin were written by other artists and other bands,” said the trustee’s attorney, Francis Malofiy of Francis Alexander. “They failed to give credit where credit was due.”

On March 23rd, both sides in the “Stairway to Heaven” case failed to settle the dispute. U.S. District Judge R. Gary Klausner in Los Angeles has scheduled a trial but has yet to rule on a pending summary judgment motion.

Read more at Nationallawjournal.com.



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Up and coming UK hard rockers The Blackmail Snaps have released their debut single, "The Wheel Is Spinning (But The Hamster Is Dead)", along with a promotional video. The band have dedicated the song to "...anyone who can't face mornings without an intravenous coffee drip, or anyone who's having a bad day! Play it loud, we hope it helps!"

Vocalist/guitarist Rich Davenport adds "We take the music seriously, but not ourselves. There are some songs about more serious subjects on the album, but we grew up on bands like AC/DC and Twisted Sister who weren't afraid to let their sense of humour shine through. The song title describes that early-morning brain-dead feeling when you have to drag yourself off to work before the coffee's kicked in!!!"

The Blackmail Snaps’s debut album, When One Door Closes, Smash A Window is and is available on CD via their website, where the band are also giving away a free MP3 track, at www.blackmailsnaps.com

When One Door Closes, Smash A Window by The Blackmail Snaps

Taking their musical cues from classic acts like Thin Lizzy, AC/DC, UFO, Black Sabbath, Motörhead, Judas Priest, Scorpions, Iron Maiden, Accept and Metallica, The Blackmail Snaps offer up a fresh, contemporary blend of hard rock and heavy metal, delivering memorable songs with relentless energy. Pounding drums, rumbling bass, biting guitars and gritty vocals underpin the band’s heavy, melodic material.

A power trio in the vintage mould, the band feature David Nuttall (drums, vocals / ex-Toy Dolls), Marc Hood (bass, vocals) and Rich Davenport (guitars, lead vocals / ex-See Red, ex-Atomkraft). Songs from their debut album have already met with an enthusiastic reception at live shows.

Other songs deal with getting through tough times, dealing effectively with people you’d rather attack with a cattle prod, corruption in high places, and trying to emerge from all of the above with your sanity intact, all summed up in the title track – “When One Door Closes, Smash A Window!”

Their down-to-earth attitude and in your face live performances have seen them garner enthusiastic responses from a range of audiences, and they aim to carry on gigging extensively in support of the album throughout 2016.  

Just enter your name and email address at the band's official website here and you will be immediately sent the download link to the free track. Check out the band's official Facebook page here.

BraveWords scribe Carl Begai has weighed in on When One Door Closes, Smash A Window!: "Imagine a bare bones garage band weaned on the likes of Thin Lizzy and The Sex Pistols given the chance to run amok in the studio for a few hours. The Blackmail Snaps are all spit, no polish. As real as rock gets at street level."



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Groove metal influenced hard rockers Toy Called God are gearing up for the release of their third heavy-hitting full-length album, Dirt On Your Coffin, out April 5th. Hailing from Brentwood, CA, the quartet have been making a name for themselves since 2011 - mixing crushing distortion, great hooks and an amazing ability to make your head bang... involuntarily! This is the band's first album with new frontman Marcus Lance.

In celebration of the upcoming album release, Toy Called God have unleashed a brand new music video for the record's lead track, "False Prophet". Shot and directed by Mike Sloat (Testament, Machine Head, Lynyrd Skynyrd) on location at Brannan Island in Antioch, CA, the video depicts a priest's personal struggle with the message he is delivering to his flock. It all comes to a head during a funeral as he loses the struggle with his inner demons, personifying the song's title.

Watch the new clip below. Pre-order Dirt On Your Coffin here.

Dirt On Your Coffin tracklisting:

“False Prophet”
“Drop On The Pile”
“Justice”
“Numb In A Bottle”
“Warning Shot”
“Push Me Down”
“Shackled”
“Dirt On Your Coffin”

“False Prophet” video:



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Canadian prog outfit, Heaven’s Cry, have revealed the first sample of new material featured on their forthcoming album, Outcast. The nearly one minute long teaser, which also showcases the album’s chaos inducing artwork alongside quotes from political activist Noam Chomsky, whom approved a selection of one of his speeches to appear in the new track "The Human Factor".

"Pierre (St-Jean, vocals/guitar) introduced me to Noam Chomsky' work in the early 2000s", commented vocalist/bassist Sylvain Auclair. "When the time came to dress up that two-minute instrumental part in "The Human Factor", Noam' 1970 ' in the ' lecture was a perfect fit."

Continuing where their 2012 full-length Wheels Of Impermanence left off, Outcast is a concept album that examines the corruption of governments around the world and incites humankind to rally up and fight as this will be the key to our survival and growth.

Scheduled for release on June 3rd via Prosthetic Records, Outcast was self-produced by the band along with Yannick St-Amand. Stay tuned in the coming week for pre-order bundles and further details on the new album.

Outcast will showcased live during three record-release shows in Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec. Additional support will be provided by Borealis and Hillward.

Dates are as follows:

June
3 - Ottawa, ON - Mavericks
4 - Montreal, QC - Piranha Bar
5 - Quebec City, QC - L'Anti



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This spring, Alarion - the solo project of Dutch guitarist Bas Willemsen formerly known as Alerion - will release their debut album Waves Of Destruction through Freia Music. The album contains an hour of melodic, symphonic and intense music featuring appearances by many great musicians, whose identities will gradually be revealed in time. 

Ben Mathot recorded violin on several tracks for the album. He is well known for his regular studio recordings as violin player with many great progressive and symphonic rock and metal acts, often working with Joost van den Broek (ex-After Forever) or Arjen Lucassen (Ayreon). He has recorded for Epica, Revamp, Ayreon, Xandria and many others. Check out several glimpses of his Alarion performance, the songs and the recording process in the new album teaser below.

Ben recorded enchanting violin melodies to "Clash With Eternity" and the acoustic "Turn Of Fate", as well as the (sometimes scorchingly fast) violin parts on "Colourblind".

Musicians also confirmed to appear on Waves Of Destruction include.

Bas Willemsen - guitars, keyboards, orchestration, bass
Tom Gorissen (Hymir) - keyboards
Nico Lammers - acoustic guitars
Ronald van Schaik - bass
Jeroen Nagel (Blind Justice) - drums
Irene Jansen – vocals
Damian Wilson - vocals

Check out the cover art for Waves Of Destruction below.

For more information go to the official Alarion website.

Photo by Ben Treep



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Scott Kelly (Neurosis) and producer/engineer/sonic warlord Sanford Parker (Buried At Sea) are restless. This inquietude has culminated in another collaboration. The two work together in Corrections House, a project that also features the talents of Mike IX Williams of Eyehategod, and Bruce Lamont of Yakuza. While Corrections House seem hell-bent on impersonal bludgeon and unfettered terror, the pair's latest project, Mirrors For Psychic Warfare, is far more restrained.

The band's haunting self-titled debut is the sonic manifestation of insomnia, complete with the tossing, the turning, and the perennial dread that comes with facing another shabby daylight. The five songs lurch and pulsate across a desolate landscape with an almost curious obsessiveness. While Mirrors For Psychic Warfare may remind some of the best work on the classic Cold Meat Industry label, there is enough familiar Kelly/Parker-isms scattered throughout to keep the album stimulating. It is a work with more in common with a fever or a fitful wraith than a record.

Tracklisting:

“Oracles Hex”
“A Thorn To See”
“CNN WTZ”
“I’ll Try You All”
“43”

“Oracles Hex”:

 
Mirrors For Psychic Warfare was realized and recorded by both Kelly and Parker at Actual 13 Studio and Hypercube respectively over the course of 2015. The record was mixed and mastered by Parker and will come available in CD and vinyl form. For pre-orders point your browser to this location.

(Photo - John Sturdy)



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Imperative PR welcome Thus Defiled to their roster, for the digital release of three EPs over the coming months. Thus Defiled have been kings of the British black metal underground for more than twenty years, their albums hailed by fans and critics alike. They have shared stages with bands such as Mayhem, Blasphemy, Cannibal Corpse, Immolation, Enslaved, Behemoth and Dissection and many more, have appeared on compilation albums alongside Black Sabbath and Venom, they have been championed by much missed DJ legend John Peel and had guest appearances on their albums from Sakis of Rotting Christ.

Now, Thus Defiled have stirred from their slumber and will be digitally releasing, for the first time, two long since sold out EPs - A Darker Beauty and Fire Serpent Dawn - both remastered by front man Paul C to sound more powerful and abyssic than ever. The third release is a brand new EP entitled A Return To The Shadows. This brings together four dramatic cover versions and one brand new, original recording.

A Return To The Shadows features guest vocals from Mike Browning of Morbid Angel / Nocturnus and Donn Donni of  Vesperian Sorrow and is both a tribute to the bands Thus Defiled grew up with - and a defiant roar that dares anyone to doubt their continued power and potency.

Each EP release will be preceded by a special promo video – the first of which you can see below:

The release schedule begins with 2000’s A Darker Beauty, coming on June 6th; a recording that perfectly encapsulates the sheer class that has always been the hallmark of Thus Defiled’s music and stands as an unholy testament to the band’s unswerving dedication to the darkness.

Be afraid – the wolves have returned!



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"I Got Bones", the new solo video from former ASKING ALEXANDRIA and current WE ARE HARLOT frontman Danny Worsnop, can be seen below. The song is taken from Danny's has forthcoming debut solo album, "The Prozac Sessions", due later in the year.

The singer, who recently spent time in Nashville seeking a suitable label to release the record, told Alternative Press last year about the musical direction of his solo material: "[The solo album has] still got some of that typical snotty flair going. I'm still, for the most part, singing the blues. But I went into it with country in mind. I've always loved country. In England, I grew up as a country boy. I was in a small village of two hundred people. The lifestyle goes hand in hand with the music all over the world. [But writing] it just never crossed my mind. Obviously, of late, I've made a lot of life changes, where I'm exploring new things. So it seemed like an appropriate time. I had some time off, I was jamming on the guitar and I had some ideas, and I was, like, 'Fuck it, let's take this and run."

The songs on "The Prozac Sessions" were completed with songwriters like John Paul White (THE CIVIL WARS), while producer Jim Kaufman sat behind the boards.

"We're definitely going to push to radio a lot, do videos," Danny told Alternative Press. "[The solo project] is definitely something I'd like to make a lot of money doing and get to do more of. If it's not a success, I doubt I'll have much opportunity to do it again. [But] there's no plans to tour, per se. Maybe just shows here and there. So it's nothing that's... I know I've said this before, and it ended with me leaving the band. [Laughs]"

Danny said in an online post that every piece of artwork for his upcoming solo album "was so perfect" that he "decided to use them all, which means there will be four versions of the album, all with different visuals." He added: "I am thinking of writing a couple more songs so that each version will have a different bonus track."

More information, including audio samples, can be found at TheSnop.com.

Worsnop exited ASKING ALEXANDRIA in January 2015, explaining in a statement: "Over the last eight years together, we've done some amazing things and created something truly special. I now, same as then, want what's best for the band and at this point in time, that isn't me."

Danny has since been replaced by Ukrainian singer Denis Shaforostov, who gained notoriety posting ASKING ALEXANDRIA covers on YouTube and consequentially inked a deal with Sumerian in his band DOWN & DIRTY.

Denver, CO’s atmospheric blackened metal band Wayfarer will release their sophomore album, Old Souls, on June 17th via Prosthetic Records. Recorded at Flatline Audio with Shane Howard (Martriden, Khemmis) while being mixed and mastered by Dave Otero (Cattle Decapitation, Cobalt), the album features seven tracks clocking in at almost 50 minutes long.  The album's cover artwork was created by Colorado artist and knifesmith Adam Gersh.

Wayfarer’s debut album, Children Of An Iron Age was met with worldwide critical acclaim. Asked how Old Souls differs, guitarist and vocalist Shane McCarthy commented: "This record is a darker and much more focused effort from us. Writing the album was a very cohesive and involved process as a whole band this time around. It has moved further and further away from any particular genre trappings and stepped closer into what we feel our sound is; which is always shifting, always evolving. Life is too short to write music that already exists. We can't wait to get this out there."

Following the release of Old Souls, the band will head out on the road with Maine’s Falls of Rauros, joining them in Canada is Numenorean.

Tracklisting:

“Ever Climbing”
“Frontiers”
“Old Souls’ New Dawn”
“Catcher”
“Deathless Tundra”
“The Dust Lakes”
“All Lost In Aimless Chaos”



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Doom/sludge metal vets Sourvein will release their Metal Blade Records debut, Aquatic Occult, on April 8th worldwide. Featuring guest performances by Lamb Of God's Randy Blythe (vocals, organ), Amebix's Stig Miller (guitar), Corrosion Of Conformity's Reed Mullin (drums) and many others, the album is described by front-man T-Roy as the record he wanted to make at a time when his life was at its bleakest.

With only one week until Aquatic Occult drops, Sourvein has revealed a brand new music video for the track “Avian Dawn”, directed by Randy Ada.

T-Roy details the guest appearances on this track and in the “Avian Dawn” video: "The 'Avian Dawn' video is directed/edited by Randy Ada and features live footage of us recording at SSP Studios in Raleigh, NC. You'll see Mike Dean of C.O.C. on the production board, Reed Mullin of C.O.C. on drums, Kevin Rochelle of Sea of Tyrants on guitar, Lou Gorra on bass and myself recording riffs and vocals. This video truly gives a behind the scenes look at the album's core performers hard at work. Music wise, 'Avian Dawn' is an upbeat song about positive thinking with an overall loose theme surrounding the sea birds of Pleasure Island, relayed as abstract wordplay in the lyrics throughout the song. We really dig this tune and it's a lot of fun to play. Enjoy."

Aquatic Occult was produced by Mike Dean and mastered by Brad Boatright (Sleep, Yob). Pre-orders for Aquatic Occult are available now in CD, vinyl, and digital formats at Metal Blade.

Aquatic Occult tracklisting:

“Tempest (Of Desire)” (feat. Stig Miller) *
“Avian Dawn” *
“Ocypuss” (feat. Randy Blythe, Mike Dean) *
“Aquanaut” (feat. Dean Berry)
“Hymn to Poseidon” *
“Mermaids” *
“Urchins”
“In the Wind” *
“Cape Fearian” *
“Capsized” (feat. Dave Capps) *
“High Tide”
“Bermuda Sundown” (feat. Keith Kirkum)
“Coral Bones” *
“Oceanic Procession” (feat. Stig Miller, Randy Blythe on organ) *

* Reed Mullin on drums

"Avian Dawn" video:

"Aquanaut":

"Ocypuss":

"Aquatic Occult promises to be heavier than a two-ton anchor dropped into an antique porcelain bathtub - it's going to break things," comments guest vocalist Randy Blythe. "This record sees Sourvein at their most musical and focused of any recording to date."

"Finally man, finally, my years of hard work have paid off," says T-Roy, reflecting on the lengthy, gruelling trek that brought his band to Metal Blade's roster. He adds, "'Aquatic Occult' is going to bring the truth. The lyrics are reality to me; I don't write about cars or chicks or horror movies, I write about the sacrifice and struggle, all the stuff I saw growing up and what I see now. But I want it to be positive, to let people know that there is a way out of bad times and tough situations."

Stay tuned for more information, tracks, and other exclusives coming soon from Sourvein.

Sourvein lineup:

T-Roy - vocals/guitar
Lou Gorra - bass
Dig - drums

(Photo by: Tina Nocturnal)



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Copenhagen, Denmark’s Heidra have released a new music video for their track “The Eyes Of Giants”, featured on their debut album, Awaiting Dawn (Mighty Music/Target Group). Find the new clip below.

Tracklisting:

"Prelude"
"Awaiting Dawn"
"Betrayal"
"Witch Of Prophecy"
"Into Cursed Lands"
"The Eyes Of Giants"
"Wolfborn"
"The Power Of Gods"
"Harbringer Of War"

“The Eyes Of Giants” video:

“Wolfborn” video:

"Betrayal" lyric video:

Heidra is heading out on an big European tour tomorrow (April 2nd) with Ensiferum and Fleshgod Apocalypse. Find their tour schedule at this location.



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Massachusetts tech deathsters Eschaton have released the video for “The Beast Is Awakened”. The track comes by way of the band's spine-twisting Sentinel Apocalypse full-length released through Unique Leader last year.

Captured at drummer Darren Cesca's House Of Grind Studios in southern Connecticut, Sentinel Apocalypse is a relentlessly abrasive exercise in technical agility and blatant aggression boasting eleven tracks of methodical guitar sweeps, fierce drum incursions and dominating vocal tirades for fans of the twisted craftings of bands like Carnifex, The Faceless, Necrophagist, The Black Dahlia Murder, and Beneath The Massacre.
 
"'The Beast Is Awakened' is an attempt to illustrate mankind's metamorphosis into savage and destructive animals that is the result of the perpetual struggle between man's obsession with power and inextinguishable thirst for freedom," elaborates the band of the track. "Some would rather face death than oppression while others will stop at nothing to maintain control, resulting in a cycle of horrific acts that represent the worst of who we are as a species. The video's producer, Miceli Productions LLC, went to great lengths to capture the chaotic and violent nature of the song, but also the energy and technicality of the band's performance. The goal was to blend dynamic angles, post production effects, war footage and editing techniques to give the viewer an intense and captivating experience."



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Less than 12 months after unveiling their debut album, Melbourne-based rock n’ roll nomads Palace Of The King have announced the upcoming release of their second full-length album, Valles Marineris.
 
Set to land on July 15th, Valles Marineris deepens Palace Of The King’s footprint on the international rock music scene by expanding on the qualities of their debut through an all-new ten track collection of blues and psych-infused hard rock.
 
Lead by the bruising gospel-tinged riffathon of “Let The Blood Run Free”, Valles Marineris is both eclectic and unrelenting right through to the final eerie piano fadeout of album closer “Into The Black”.
 
Vocalist Tim Henwood comments “I feel like we’re really honing in on our own distinctive sound now. I love our early recordings but after traveling around the world and playing over 300 shows in our first three years as a band, we’re growing and evolving. It’s real, it’s from the heart and we can’t wait to let this one out of the box.”
 
Having always placed equal importance on the visual component of each release, the band once again enlisted award-winning tattoo artist Kristian Kimonides for the album artwork, whose original painting was inspired by the music and lyrics of Valles Marineris.
 
With extensive tour dates already scheduled in Australia, US and Europe, 2016 is set to be Palace Of The King’s best and most prolific year yet.

Tracklisting:

“Let The Blood Run Free”
“Beyond The Valley”
“Black Cloud”
“The Bridge Of The Gods”
“We Are The Vampires”
“Empire Of The Sun”
“Sick As A Dog”
“River Of Fire”
“Throw Me To The Wolves”
“Into The Black”



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Atlanta based death metal band Withered will release their new album, Grief Relic, via Season Of Mist worldwide on May 27th; pre-orders are currently available here. The album track “Feeble Gasp” is streaming below.

Guitarist / vocalist Mike Thompson commented: "Having been five years since our last release, we felt the need to do something very intentional with Grief Relic.You know that sense of timelessness you get when you go back and listen to some 20 year old metal record and it’s just as relevant now as it ever was? It’s not really about nostalgia and definitely not about rehashing anything. Just the need to continue carving out a sonic identity like the great bands of the late '80s and early '90s. We focused on song arrangements and an album structure that would offer a real emotional experience and, of course, we loaded every song with a lot of typical Withered twists and turns. It’s progress for the sake of progress without abandoning our identity."

The artwork, painted by Paul Romano (Mastodon, Baroness), and tracklisting for Grief Relic can be found below.

 

 

"Leathery Rind"
"A Realm Of Suffering"
"Withdraw"
"Feeble Gasp"
"Husk"
"Downward"
"Distort, Engulf"
"To Glimpse Godliness"

"Feeble Gasp”:



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Highly complex progressive sci-fi themed metallers, Vektor, will release their new album, Terminal Redux, on May 6th worldwide. Terminal Redux is Vektor's third full-length release and the band's first ever concept album, further exploring the themes that first appeared in the lyrics of the title track from their previous album, 2011's Outer Isolation. The album track “Pillars Of Sand” is streaming below.

Like the most outlandish and classic concept records of the past - such as Rush’s 2112, Queensrÿche's Operation: Mindcrime and Mastodon’s Leviathan - Terminal Redux mixes fantasy and reality, imagination and fact, and cataclysmic warnings from the future to keep the listener on edge throughout.

Vektor vocalist/guitarist David DiSanto discusses the album's concept: "The story begins with a lone astronaut regaining his memories after being sentenced to an isolation testing program. Near the point of death in his damaged spacecraft, he finds a life-rejuvenating molecule within a stellar nebula that will change the course of his fate and many others. He brings a large haul of his newly discovered prize to the Cygnus regime, a vast galactic empire, in hopes of regaining his status as a high-ranking general. Years of isolation have turned him into a power-hungry tyrant that will stop at nothing to usurp the people who banished him. Through terror tactics and brute force, he incites a coup within Cygnus and gains control. Using the life-rejuvenating molecules from the stellar nebula, he grants the people under his rule extended life. His goal is to achieve perfect, cosmic harmony within his domain and bring balance to the war torn planets: something that no intelligent life-form has ever been able to accomplish."

As well as letting their imaginations flow free lyrically, Vektor have also embraced some unusual audio elements during the recording of Terminal Redux, going as far as to enlist the vocal assistance of a group of Philadelphia soul singers to contribute additional texture to the riff-heavy thrash opus.

Terminal Redux is available to pre-order now on CD and vinyl, including a number of limited signed editions. Reserve your copy now in Europe at this location or in North America here. The album is also available to pre-order now on iTunes.

Terminal Redux was recorded between the band's home studio and Panther Pro-Audio in Philadelphia, with additional mixing courtesy of Byron Filson at Villain Studios in Arizona.

The album artwork was created by Adam Burke. David DiSanto comments: "The cover artwork depicts a scene from the second half of the album. In the distant future, a ravaged space terminal makes a journey to an exploded star known as 'Relic Alshain'."

Tracklisting:

“Charging The Void”
“Cygnus Terminal”
“LCD (Liquid Crystal Disease)”
“Mountains Above The Sun”
“Ultimate Artificer”
“Pteropticon”
“Psychotropia”
“Pillars Of Sand”
“Collapse”
“Recharging The Void”

“Pillars Of Sand”:

"Charging The Void":

Trailer:

“Ultimate Artificer”:

(Photo - Katy A.D. Photography)



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Lifeforce Records will release the self-titled debut from London-based progressive metal/hardcore act, When Our Time Comes, on April 15th in Europe and May 6th in North America.

The band have released a video for their debut single, “50 Years From Now”. Produced by Justin Hill (Bury Tomorrow, Young Guns), “50 Years From Now” combines anthemic hooks with big metallic grooves that are both technical and accessible.

The self-titled debut features ten more tracks of powerful melodic rock with impressive riffery and strong songwriting, resulting in a very memorable album. Influences as diverse as SikTh, Parkway Drive, Thrice, and Periphery give a good indication of the band’s musical background, but expect a whole lot more.

Check out the band on the following dates:
 
April
14 - Bassment Bar - Chelmsford, UK

August
18 - Hevy Festival - Newhaven, Derbyshire, UK

“Impending” video:



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Italian metallers Overtures have just released the official lyric video for the track Unshared Worlds”, which is taken from the band's fourth album, Artifacts, to be released on May 27th via Sleaszy Rider Records.

Artifacts tracklisting:
 
“Repentance”
“Artifacts”
“Gold”
“As Candles We Burn”
“Profiled”
“Unshared Worlds”
“My Refuge” (feat. Paolo Campitelli on keyboards)
“New Dawn, New Dusk”
“Teardrop” (feat. Marco Pastorino, Caterina Piccolo on vocals, Paolo Campitelli on keyboards)
“Angry Animals”
“Savior” - Alternative version

“Unshared Worlds” lyric video:



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German epic death metal newcomers, Kambrium, announced their signing with NoiseArt Records recently. Now the time has now come to unleash their new studio album, their label debut, on an unsuspecting world: It's titled The Elders' Realm and will be released on July 29th.

The atmospheric artwork for The Elders' Realm was created by Colombian artist Felipe Machado, who is already known for his work with great bands such as Blind Guardian, Rhapsody of Fire, Xandria.

With only two releases, Shadowpath (2011) and Dark Reveries (2013), Kambrium have already become one of the most talked about bands in the underground. Their unique blend of melodic death metal with a symphonic elements have quickly made them a favourite with fans and critics alike.



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Angerhead, the up and coming raging band from San Jose, California, have released a free mp3 download of the classic Motörhead song "Iron Fist", which is off of their upcoming Fueled By Rage EP. Get your free download at this location.

Angerhead guitarist Eric Beard has checked in with the following comment:

“We decided to go back in with Juan Urteaga (Machine Head, Testament) for the new EP. He worked with us on our second EP Headful Of Hate. Juan is metal through and through. He has worked with a lot of Bay Area bands and friends so its a good fit for us.

“The EP starts out with "So Cold". This is probably our most sludgy song and also the last song in our live set. Downtuned, full of twists and turns, It is a definitely crowd pleaser and is heavy as fk!

“The second song is one of oldest song I’ve written, "Face The Fear". The song has been a staple with me for a long time. I've done it in a few different ways and with other projects. I've even done it with a jazz feel and the song still holds up!! haha. I really enjoy the Angerhead version of it.

“The third song is called "Legacy Of Hate". This is the longest song we’ve ever written. It was one that came together fully as a band and one of the favorites of the new EP.

“The fourth song is "Take Me As I Am" and its a barnburner, kicks your ass from start to finish.

“The last song on the EP is a cover of Motörhead’s "Iron Fist". Paul and I loved this song, even before “Ace Of Spades” when we were growing up, so we decided it was right. We have been seeing a lot of bands doing “Ace Of Spades” and wanted to do something different. RIP Lemmy. A True Legend!!”

Angerhead, who expertly combine razor sharp elements of thrash, metal, punk and hardcore music into their pummelling sound, has been a crossover sensation with music fans throughout the Bay Area. The band has played many high profile support slots to big named acts such as Soulfly, Suicidal Tendencies,Testament, DRI, Exodus, Death Angel, Kittie and Quiet Riot to name a few.

"Destroy The Trend" video:



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It's not an April Fools joke, it's not a rumour, the hype is real. Power Quest has returned after a three-year absence from the scene and are currently working on new material for the sixth PQ record.

Band leader Steve Williams had this to say, "I'm genuinely thrilled to be bringing PQ back from the shadows. I've had a lot of ups and downs over the past few years but I cannot wait to unleash the new lineup. The atmosphere in the rehearsal room over the past couple of months has been electric and it feels great to be back doing what I love most.”

Alongside Steve are Power Quest stalwarts Rich Smith (drums), Gav Owen (guitar) and Paul Finnie (bass). Completing the new look lineup are Dan Owen (guitar and twin brother of Gav) and new vocalist Ashley Edison who also fronts UK outfit Dendera.

Check out the video below to catch up with what's going on, why the band are back and what the future holds.

A headline show at Camden Underworld in London, England has been confirmed for September 10th 2016 where Power Quest will be joined by some very special guests. Further live dates will be announced in the coming months.

The band has parted ways with Napalm Records but would like to thank them for all their work. Discussions regarding new label partnerships will begin in due course.

Keep in touch with all things Power Quest via the band's official Facebook page.

 

 

 

 



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After a five-year break, Richmond’s Cough have returned with their newest opus, Still They Pray. Produced by Electric Wizard’s Jus Oborn and recorded by Oborn and Windhand’s Garrett Morris, Still They Pray is the kind of monolithic cosmic doom that will take the listener to the heights of despair and the bottom of the abyss.

With this release, Cough summon psychedelic feedback-driven melodies just to deconstruct them to their core. Still They Pray is easily Cough at their most focused: pessimistic riffs and tortured grooves collide in melodic agony alongside a hallucinogenic blend of harsh and clean incantations, crushing and cathartic yet utterly mesmerizing. Step through the gates of madness and stare into the void.

Hear the first track "The Wounding Hours”, streaming below.

Still They Pray is set for release via Relapse Records on CD/2xLP/Digital this coming June 3rd. Physical pre-orders and bundle deals are available via Relapse.com here, and digital copies can be pre-ordered through COUGH's Bandcamp page at this location.

Still They Pray Tracklisting:

“Haunter Of The Dark”
“Possession”
“Dead Among The Roses”
“Masters Of Torture”
“Let It Bleed”
“Shadow Of The Torturer”
“The Wounding Hours”
“Still They Pray”

“The Wounding Hours”:



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West Virginian groove metal outfit, Byzantine, has signed a worldwide deal with Metal Blade Records. After releasing their music independently over the last three years, the quartet is ready to unleash their sixth, currently untitled album in early 2017 via their new label home.

Frontman, Chris "OJ" Ojeda had this to say about the band's recent signing: "For the last few albums, we have operated outside the fringes of the music community by necessity. I had almost lost hope that we would ever have the chance to showcase our music to the world on a bigger stage. With the help of Brian Slagel and Metal Blade Records, we feel like Byzantine has been given a 2nd chance to make our 1st impression. We are absolutely thrilled at the opportunity to share our brand of heavy music with the world on the world's best metal label!"

Byzantine was formed in 2000 by vocalist/guitarist Chris Ojeda and former guitarist Tony Rohrbough. After releasing three albums via Prosthetic Records, touring with Lamb Of God, playing the main stage of New England Metal and Hardcore Festival, and receiving much praise from fans and media alike, the band abruptly called it quits in early 2008 - but it wasn't long before the metal community demanded their return. In 2012, a reinvigorated Byzantine reunited with their seminal lineup, and consequently delivered two highly praised albums, which were crowd-funded through Kickstarter and Pledge Music and self-released. Now, after having been an independent artist since 2013, Ojeda and his crew are back with a new record deal, poised to dominate the scene once again.

In regards to Byzantine signing to Metal Blade Records, Jose Mangin (SiriusXM Liquid Metal) comments: "As the most massive supporter of Byzantine's music since day one, we've known a secret that the rest of the world will NOW finally be able to realize, thanks to Metal Blade! The strength, raw talent, and absolute ease at which these West Virginians shred is a thing to experience, and it's just a matter of time before they rise the ranks to become one of metal's elite!"

Stay tuned for more Byzantine news coming soon.



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Ever wonder what concert photographers experience during a live shoot? Well, professional music photographer David Devo Oosthuizen of the Devographic music media agency takes you front and center straight into the pit at a BEHEMOTH show. The six-minute clip below was shot on March 27 at The Assembly in Cape Town, South Africa using a GoPro camera.

BEHEMOTH has announced its return to North America this spring with a special tour, featuring MYRKUR as support. BEHEMOTH will play its latest album, "The Satanist", in its entirety. In addition to the concert, fans will also have the chance to view "The Congregation" exhibition at each venue. Dubbed "a symbiosis of BEHEMOTH and Toxic Vision," the display showcases the collaboration between the two parties.

BEHEMOTH guitarist/vocalist Adam "Nergal" Darski recently told the video question-and-answer site asQme that he has been inspired by the "avant-garde" when writing the band's upcoming album. He also revealed that he listens to classic rock groups and artists from other genres, admitting that he is "really keen on the primitive, primal kind of tempos."

SLAYER and EXODUS guitarist Gary Holt was the special musical guest at the U.S. opening of the "Exotrash" metal and wrestling extravaganza from Carlos Martinez's Rock 'N' Roll Wrestling Bash on Sunday, March 27 at the Regent Theater in Los Angeles, California.

"Exotrash" has been shown in Germany and other European countries since 2003. The local host was El Brujo, with musical accompaniment by his GORE-CHESTRA (Pacific Coast Unit, featuring Bill Hudson on guitaar, Damien Rainaud on drums, Robert Madrigal on bass and John Hatfield on guitar).

Martinez, creator and organizer of the Wrestling Bash, told LA Weekly he had been trying for years to bring the show to the United States. "It has taken such a long time to bring this event overseas because of production costs, which are very high," he said. "We have been playing in Germany for now over 10 years; it's our main market. But the tour has also played in the Netherlands, Switzerland, France, Austria and Belgium."

Martinez decided to debut his event in Los Angeles after considering "offers from many other cities in North America." He explained: "Los Angeles was the only one who wanted to pay for the production. The promoter was blown away and went above and beyond to make this happen."

Martinez described the Rock 'N' Roll Wrestling Bash music as "blues-rock, hard, shock rock and heavy metal. Imagine AC/DC meets ALICE COOPER and GWAR at a MEGADETH show."

The official lyric video for the song "A World On Its Knees" from MONSTRANCE, the band featuring former CARCASS guitarist Carlo Regadas alongside vocalist Tony Glover (ex-DEVOID) and drummer Nicholas Barker (BENEDICTION, CRADLE OF FILTH, DIMMU BORGIR, TESTAMENT), can be seen below.

MONSTRANCE is the brainchild of Regadas, former lead guitar player with grind gods CARCASS, post-CARCASS outfit BLACKSTAR and DEVOID. Following his tenures with CARCASS and BLACKSTAR, Carlo continued to write and record music, mainly for his own enjoyment.

In 2013, after a stint living in the Canary Islands, Carlo returned to the U.K. and met up with old friend and former DEVOID bandmate Tony Glover. Tony had recently unearthed some never-released material of Carlo's, some of which was penned during his tenure with CARCASS. Upon hearing this material again and realizing the strength of the songs, Carlo sent the material to some trusted, musically minded friends for their opinion, and the response was nothing short of astounding!

On the back of this enthusiasm, although reluctant at first, Carlo was urged to send the material to several established record labels, who also responded extremely positively and were very keen to hear more.

Carlo decided to approach some old friends and fellow musicians from the original death metal scene and decided to put together a full lineup, although at first, the intention was just to record an album as a studio project. Such was the friendship, camaraderie and enthusiasm for the project, the decision was quickly made to become a full-time band.Carlo's focus in recruiting band members was not to look for big-name musicians from the genre with previous credentials but rather to source like-minded individuals who were also very accomplished musicians.

The vocal position was immediately filled by Tony, building on their long-standing friendship, previous experience with DEVOID and long-held ambition to do a further project together. Tony has honed his vocal delivery since the DEVOID era, now projecting a unique blend of power, clear diction and articulation. Such is the power of Tony's delivery, the mic level during the vocal demo sessions had to be backed off by -20db!

Belgrade-born Aleksandar Kokai, from Liverpool band CRUSH DEPTH EXPERIMENT, was recruited on bass. A supremely talented and technically gifted bass player who will provide energy and heaviness to a rhythm section of dynamism and power.

The lineup is bolstered further with the addition of yet another old friend, and former ORNAMENT guitar player, Steven Hargraves, who completes the band's live lineup on second guitar. Carlo and Steven have worked closely together to forge a tight, melodic and crushing guitar duo, guaranteed to turn heads in the live setting.

Music-wise, MONSTRANCE cannot be easily pigeon-holed. As far as the band is concerned, it's just metal, albeit with downtuned guitars and extreme vocals. The music is as crushingly heavy as it is melodic and catchy. Carlo's original demos have now finally been completed with the addition of Tony's savage vocal attack, perfectly showcasing the quality and originality of the material.

MONSTRANCE is:

Tony Glover - VocalsNicholas Barker - DrumsAleksandar Kokai - BassCarlo Regadas- Lead, Rhythm GuitarSteven Hargraves - Rhythm Guitar

For more information on MONSTRANCE, click here.

Radio personality Terrie Carr recently spoke to JUDAS PRIEST members Rob Halford (vocals), Glenn Tipton (guitar) and Richie Faulkner (guitar) about their newly released CD, DVD and Blu-ray, "Battle Cry". You can now listen to the interviews using the SoundCloud widget below. A couple of excerpts follow (transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET).

On JUDAS PRIEST's plans to write and record the follow-up to 2014's "Redeemer Of Souls" album:

Rob: "Well, we wanna keep the momentum going. For certain bands, it's the way that the whole business of being in a band and making music works. I mean, we were out [on tour] for almost two years, I think, playing so many shows in so many countries and traveling so many thousands of miles. And, you see, generally when you do that, then you take some time off to decompress and think about all the wonderful things you have experienced. And then generally you take a little bit of time and then you ramp up to go back out on the road again. But I've gotta tell you, this is the best time for PRIEST right now. We're just having a blast, and we want to keep the metal party going, and what better way to do that than to bring on some new metal songs."

On the fan response to "Redeemer Of Souls":

Glenn: "We thought, 'Yeah, we're just gonna do a few dates.' Wrong! We got such a great reaction right from the word 'go.' And everybody accepted the band and accepted Richie and loved the new material, loved the new album. And it was just so rewarding and satisfying that we could still do it; we could still put out an album and songs that people really want to hear. And I'm very proud of 'Redeemer', and I'm sure the rest of the band are proud of it."

On the feeling within the JUDAS PRIEST camp:

Richie: "From my point of view, the band seems to be energized and we get along well and we're talking about the future and we're talking about new ideas, and when we get together again to put new ideas on the table, what direction we're gonna go in. So there's no real sense of slowing down in that respect. So it's great to see, and it's a huge testament to them. I think ['Redeemer Of Souls'] was the first [PRIEST] album [to debut] in the Billboard Top 10, [and it is a record] which I was a part of and co-wrote, so on a personal level, it's a great affirmation that you're doing something right. You're doing the right thing. It's coming from your heart, and you're putting your heart on the table and you're putting your ideas out there and your opinions, and you're doing the right thing. And that inspires you to do more and put your opinion across and listen and learn and create and move on. And I think it's a great thing. It's great to be a part of that machine; it's positive, it's forward-focused, and it's exciting to see what we come up with next, really, and I think everyone feels the same way."

"Redeemer Of Souls" was released in July 2014. The follow-up to 2008's double-disc concept album "Nostradamus" was billed as a return to JUDAS PRIEST's heavy-metal roots.

"Redeemer Of Souls" sold around 32,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 6 on The Billboard 200 chart.

"Battle Cry" was released on March 25 via Epic Records. Recorded live on August 1, 2015 at Germany's Wacken Open Air festival in front of an audience of 85,000, the set is available on a 15-track CD, with the entire show on Blu-ray and DVD (running over 94 minutes), as well as digital audio and video formats. The DVD and Blu-ray also contains three bonus tracks shot in Poland on December 10, 2015 at The Ergo Arena, Gdansk, Poland.

GUNS N' ROSES kicked off its concert at the Troubadour in West Hollywood, California earlier tonight (Friday, April 1) around midnight with a one-two punch of "It's So Easy" and "Mr. Brownstone".

Joining singer Axl Rose, guitarist Slash and bassist Duff McKagan on stage are keyboardist Dizzy Reed, guitarist Richard Fortus and drummer Frank Ferrer.

The concert also featured Slash performing "Chinese Democracy", the title track of GUNS N' ROSES' 2008 album, live for the first time.

The first video footage and photos of the show can be seen below.

Prior to tonight, the last concert Axl and Slash played together was on July 17, 1993 at River Plate Stadium in Buenos Aires. The last incarnation of GUNS N' ROSES, which only included Axl from the original lineup, played a residency in Las Vegas in 2014 but has remained silent since.

GUNS N' ROSES has six more concerts scheduled in April: two at the Coachella Music And Arts Festival, two in Las Vegas and two in Mexico City.

KCAL-TV, the CBS-owned television station in Los Angeles, has uploaded a video report on today's announcement that GUNS N' ROSES will play its first live gig of 2016 tonight (Friday, April 1) on the hallowed ground where the band started, the Troubadour, in West Hollywood, California. The clip, which includes interview footage with fans who spent several hours in line this morning at Gibson Brands on Sunset (formerly Tower Records) waiting to purchase tickets for the concert, can be seen below. The show will mark the first time singer Axl Rose and guitarist Slash have performed together since 1993.

While in the queue, fans were invited to start the celebratory day with a trip down memory lane in the venue where guitarist Slash used to work (GN'R amateur historians also know singer Axl Rose worked across the street at the now-defunct Tower Video), as the old Tower store will be transformed into a complete interactive GN'R experience with a memorabilia exhibit curated by Blaine Halvorson, designer of MadeWorn. The exhibit includes historic items such as members' classic attire, original artwork, personal awards and more. Additionally, GN'R exclusive merchandiser Bravado was onsite with a pop-up shop featuring exclusive merchandise to celebrate the April 1 Troubadour appearance. GUNS N' ROSES has still not officially announced the lineup of musicians who will take the stage beyond Rose, Slash and bassist Duff McKagan, although it is almost certain that keyboardist Dizzy Reed, guitarist Richard Fortus and drummer Frank Ferrer are on board as well.

Members of the classic GN'R lineup Izzy Stradlin and Steven Adler didn't originally appear to be involved in the gigs, but Adler's solo band abruptly canceled a show at the Whiskey A Go Go in Los Angeles on April 1, with the venue tweeting, "Stay tuned for a big announcement! #GunsNRoses." There is now speculation about a guest appearance by Adler with GUNS.

The last show Axl and Slash played together was on July 17, 1993 at River Plate Stadium in Buenos Aires. The latest incarnation of GUNS N' ROSES, which only included Axl from the original lineup, played a residency in Las Vegas in 2014 but has remained silent since.

GUNS N' ROSES has six more concerts scheduled in April: two at the Coachella Music And Arts Festival, two in Las Vegas and two in Mexico City.

Fanáticos de @gunsnroses afuera del Tower Records, esperando entradas para el show de hoy en #Troubadour #GnFnR pic.twitter.com/i5NovcsOVq

— Juan Pablo Andrews (@JpAndrews7) April 1, 2016

Tonight gig @gunsnroses @theTroubadour #TheTroubadour #GunsnRoses #GunsnRosesreunion @slash 📷 thx @tako217 pic.twitter.com/2zqDOoH15R

— Slash Addict (@ansolau) April 1, 2016

#NotInThisLifeTimeTour #GNRreunion #gunsnroses #Troubadour #LosAngeles #WelcomeBackGunsNRoses pic.twitter.com/D2AhceVGH5

— gnr's moments (@gnrmoments) April 2, 2016

#GunsNRoses #Axl #Slash together again!!#Troubadour Friday night #ktla @ktla pic.twitter.com/Alb2T3UWsI

— Christopher Wolfe (@ChrisMWolfe) April 2, 2016

Troubadour presents... ✌😉 🎥 paulhebertphoto via IG. #GnFnR #GunsNRoses pic.twitter.com/UrBoSSB3xH

— Slash Army Spain (@SlashArmyES) April 1, 2016

'80s hard rock queen Lita Ford will release a new album, "Time Capsule", on April 15 via SPV/Steamhammer. The very special and unusual recording turns back the clock to a time when honest, down-to-earth rock music was still handmade and recorded without digital tricks and contraptions.

"Time Capsule" is a "throwback" record that boasts identifiable voices and brilliant players jamming without any planning or pressure. Some of the album's highlights: Billy Sheehan (bass), Rodger Carter (drums), Dave Navarro (mandolin), Jeff Scott Soto (vocals), Rick Nielsen and Robin Zander (backing vocals) and Gene Simmons (bass).

The song "Killing Kind", taken from "Time Capsule", can be streamed using the SoundCloud widget below. The track was recorded at a studio in North Hollywood in the late ’80s and features Sheehan on bass, Carter on drums, and Navarro on mandolin and guitar.

Speaking to Guitar World magazine, Lita stated about how the idea for "Time Capsule" came about: "There were 15 analog tapes I had in the Caribbean house [where Lita lived while she was married to former NITRO singer Jim Gillette] that I had to go back and get during my divorce. I drug them though the Caribbean dirt and on to a boat and took them back to L.A. I remember we had to bake them because they were so old and had been in that air for so long. I was afraid to put them on the reel because I thought they would flake and fall apart. So we baked them and transferred them over to digital — and it worked!"

Asked what made "Time Capsule" so special, Lita said: "It has such a magical vibe to it. We didn't change one note on anything on this album. All we did was remix. It was so fun and when we originally recorded it, all of the musicians were in their prime: Billy Sheehan; Gene Simmons and Bruce Kulick; Robin Zander and Rick Nielsen of CHEAP TRICK; Dave Navarro is on mandolin; Rodger Carter's on drums. Even Jeff Scott Soto and I sing a duet together that's just awesome. The album is also a gift to the fans, because I know they miss the eighties. There are people who are too young and didn't get to live through the eighties, and then there are other people who really miss it. So there's a little piece of the eighties in this time capsule, and I'm bringing it back!"

"Time Capsule" contains ten songs plus an intro and will be available as a digipak as well as an LP version and download. It's Ford's gift to fans who love the '80s, when thrilling vocal performances, raunchy riffs, and loud, growling guitars were as essential as oxygen. "Time Capsule" track listing:

01. Intro02. Where Will I Find My Heart Tonight03. Killing Kind04. War Of The Angels05. Black Leather Heart06. Rotten To The Core07. Little Wing08. On The Fast Track09. King Of The Wild Wind10. Mr. Corruption11. Anything For The Thrill

"Lita Ford - Living Like A Runaway: A Memoir" came out on February 23 via Dey Street Books (formerly It Books), an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. In this 272-page hardcover book, which was originally expected in 2014, the former lead guitarist of THE RUNAWAYS opens up about the '70s and '80s music scene, and her extraordinary life and career.

Photo credit: Dustin Jack