Legendary BLACK SABBATH drummer Bill Ward was presented with the "Lifetime Achievement" award at the Bonzo Bash NAMM Jamm 2014 "The Ultimate Celebration To The Ultimate Drummer - John Henry Bonham Of Led Zeppelin", which took place on Thursday, January 23 at The Observatory, in Santa Ana, California. You can watch video footage of his acceptance speech below.

Ward recently underwent surgery for perforated diverticulitis, a very serious gastrointestinal condition in which the walls of the intestine have become perforated. His operation was said to be successful, and he was expected to make a full recovery.

Ward revealed in an interview with Rock Cellar that he tried to listen to last year's SABBATH reunion album, "13", but had to stop after just a few minutes. Ward said, "The only thing I've heard from '13' is maybe 40 seconds of the first song, and then I turned it off. I haven't heard anything off that album at all. And to be quite honest, I don't care to either. It's too painful. If I want to rip my guts out, I'll put it on." Ward, the group's founding drummer, has played on and off with SABBATH over the years and had initially signed on for the original lineup's first album in 35 years and accompanying tour, announced in late 2011.

But he quit shortly before the writing and recording of the disc began, saying he was dissatisfied with the terms of the contract he had been offered.

Although he never specified what his issues were, the other members of SABBATH later hinted that Ward was not physically up to the task of performing live.

It was rumored that SABBATH wanted to bring a second drummer on the road to share duties with Ward, which he allegedly balked at.

SABBATH used RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE drummer Brad Wilk for the recording of "13", while Tommy Clufetos has been the live drummer.

Ward added that he remains "deeply touched" by the outpouring of support that many fans have shown him, saying, "It tears me up, you know. Even as I'm talking to you now, I'm not far away from a tear. I had to follow my heart under the most difficult circumstances."

SABBATH has been touring for much of the past year behind "13" and has dates lined up in North America in March and April.

Hailing from the four corners of the world, BLACKWELDER is a brand new metal experience featuring some of the top names in power prog metal today. One of the best singers in all of metal, Ralf Scheepers (PRIMAL FEAR, ex-GAMMA RAY) fronts this extraordinary outfit at the top of his game, alongside guitar virtuoso Andrew Szus (SEVEN SERAPHIM). Bjorn Englen (DIO DISCIPLES, ex-YNGWIE MALMSTEEN) and Aquiles Priester (HANGAR, ex-ANGRA) round out this unstoppable team of what quite possibly could be one of the greatest lineups metal has ever seen.

BLACKWELDER is:

Ralf Scheepers (PRIMAL FEAR, ex-GAMMA RAY) - VocalsAndrew Szucs (SEVEN SERAPHIM) - GuitarBjorn Englen (DIO DISCIPLES, ex-YNGWIE MALMSTEEN) - BassAquiles Priester (HANGAR, ex-ANGRA) - Drums

BLACKWELDER began as the long-awaited follow up to SEVEN SERAPHIM's "Believe in Angels". Bit by bit, as the songs materialized, it became evident to mainman Andrew Szucs that this music should carry the banner of a new musical entity, emerging from a richer, darker source thus, BLACKWELDER was born.

Andrew began this musical journey alone, however, once he completed the framework for all of the songs, the band members began to fall into place like pieces of a puzzle.

Bjorn Englen was the first to climb aboard, expertly adding his bass lines to the songs. Bjorn would later go on tour with Tony MacAlpine alongside drummer Aquiles Priester, after which, it seemed only natural to keep this rhythm section in tact for BLACKWELDER.

Once Andrew's guitars were recorded, it became evident that a true powerhouse vocalist was needed to carry these songs to completion. Not just any voice would do. BLACKWELDER would need the stratospheric vocal stylings characterized by the rich tradition of European heavy metal, and who better to do that than the voice of PRIMAL FEAR: Ralf Scheepers. Like a dragon with its fire, Ralf's voice and lyrical themes are a natural fit to the songs of BLACKWELDER; blending and contrasting with the Marshall-based guitar tones in perfect harmony.

Topping off this powerful lineup is the unparalleled drumming of Aquiles Priester. Andrew and Aquiles agreed to finish the songs with Aquiles' unique pyrotechnic display of progressive metal drumming techniques and what a display it is.

BLACKWELDER is a winning formula of raw musical virtuosity that holds the listener's ears right from the start. This act is surely not one to be missed and cannot be denied!

Fan-filmed video footage of RED DRAGON CARTEL, the band led by former OZZY OSBOURNE and BADLANDS guitarist Jake E. Lee, performing a cover of the OZZY OSBOURNE classic "Bark At The Moon" on Friday, January 24 at the NAMM Jam 2014 at the Grove Of Anaheim in Anaheim, California can be seen below.

RED DRAGON CARTEL's self-titled debut album, will be released on January 28 via Frontiers Records. The CD was recorded at Las Vegas' The Hideout Recording Studio — owned and operated by Kevin Churko (OZZY OSBOURNE, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, IN THIS MOMENT) — and was produced by R. Bernard Mann (a.k.a. Ronnie Mancuso) and Jake E. Lee, and executive-produced, mixed and mastered by Churko.

RED DRAGON CARTEL, which references the axeman's Japanese roots, also features Darren "D.J." Smith of Canadian metallers WARMACHINE, on vocals, Ronnie Mancuso (BEGGARS & THIEVES) on bass and Jonas Fairley (BLACK BETTY) on drums.

Jake E. Lee is best known for his work in BADLANDS and as guitarist for OZZY OSBOURNE on "Bark At The Moon" and "The Ultimate Sin" albums.

"Red Dragon Cartel" also features various guest appearances from some of rock's most notable faces, including legendary CHEAP TRICK vocalist Robin Zander, former IRON MAIDEN singer Paul Di'Anno, KILL DEVIL HILL/ex-PANTERA bassist Rex Brown, Sass Jordan, Todd Kerns and Brent Fitz (SLASH) and IN THIS MOMENT frontwoman Maria Brink.

From the opening riff of "Deceived" to final sustained piano chord of "Exquisite Tenderness", it is clear RED DRAGON CARTEL has created a hard rock gem. Infectious songs such as "Shout It Out", "Wasted" and "Slave" showcase the band's ability to write memorable hooks and vocal melodies. Zander of lends his voice to the track "Feeder".

"Red Dragon Cartel" track listing:

01. Deceived 02. Shout It Out03. Feeder (with Robin Zander)04. Fall From The Sky (Seagull)05. Wasted (with Paul Di'Anno)06. Slave07. Big Mouth (with Maria Brink)08. War Machine09. Redeem Me (with Sass Jordan) 10. Exquisite Tenderness

JAKE E. LEE'S RED DRAGON CARTEL's setlist includes new material like the singles "Feeder" and "Deceived", as well as major hits from Jake E. Lee's glorious past: "Bark At The Moon", "The Ultimate Sin" and "Rock 'N' Roll Rebel" (all originally recorded by OZZY OSBOURNE), as well as "Shine On" and "High Wire" (BADLANDS).

Dutch modern metallers SELFMACHINE have announced a February 2nd digital release date via Wormholedeath, for their album Broadcast Your Identity.
The album track 'Miles Away' is streaming below:
The band stated: "We are very excited to have signed with Wormhole Death / Aural Music! For the last two years we have worked hard to write, record and produce our debut album and we can't wait to present it to the world.

The fact that our band, that has only been around for a few years, gets the chance to release its debut album worldwide through this great label is something we are extremely proud of. Wormhole Death clearly understands what our music is about and what we are trying to achieve. So hold on to your socks everybody, 'cause here we are, about to broadcast our identity!"

New track ‘Smother The Sun’:

RETRACE THE LINES have inked a deal with Art Gates Records. This six-piece combo born in Valencia, Spain is composed by members influenced by several music genres.

The band released their first EP, entitled The Broken Ones, at the beginning of 2013, leading them to start an extensive national tour, sharing stage with recognized artists such as DAWN OF THE MAYA and AS THEY BURN.
In words of Retrace The Lines: “We hope to grow as a band and have the opportunity to go as far as we can with our music and share stage with the bands that influenced us from our very beginning”.

Currently, the band is working in their debut album, which will be released in 2014.

CAMP FREDDY, the Los Angeles-based "jam" group featuring Dave Navarro (JANE'S ADDICTION, RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS), Billy Morrison (ex-THE CULT bassist, current CIRCUS DIABLO vocalist), Matt Sorum (VELVET REVOLVER, ex-GUNS N' ROSES), Donovan Leitch (son of legendary folk singer Donovan), and Chris Chaney (JANE'S ADDICTION, ALANIS MORRISETTE), has officially called it quits. Navarro, Morrison, Leitch and Chaney will continue playing together in a brand new "all-star covers fun-times band" called ROYAL MACHINES in which they will be joined by frequent CAMP FREDDY collaborator, singer Mark McGrath (SUGAR RAY), and acclaimed drummer Josh Freese (THE VANDALS, DEVO, A PERFECT CIRCLE).

ROYAL MACHINES wrote in an online posting: "We'll do our best to bring you another 10 years of ridiculously amazing rock shows."

Since its formation ten years ago when they rocked the opening of The Standard Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles at the invitation of Brent Bolthouse, CAMP FREDDY had performed on both coasts of America and on national television shows ("The Tonight Show with Jay Leno", "Jimmy Kimmel Live!", "Late Late Show With Craig Kilborn", "Last Call with Carson Daly").

In an interview with Gibson.com, Navarro was asked if there would ever be a CAMP FREDDY album. "We talked about it for many, many years, but the logistics of something like that really doesn't translate to what we're about," he replied. "We're a live band and we're about the fun on stage and whoever's gonna get up with us — we don't know from night to night. And when you go into a studio to record songs that have already been recorded, it's difficult to recreate that kind of energy and spontaneity, so it's unlikely."

Swedish death metallers DECOMPOSED have issued their new album, Devouring.

Decomposed could've easily been formed way back in the early 90s as their music has no traces of anything modern or melodic. This is raw, crusty, vibrant, ripping, balls-out and in-your-face old school Swedish death metal with intricate riffing, attitude and power in the vein of NIHILIST/ENTOMBED, GOD MACABRE, CONVULSE, CEMETARY, DISMEMBER.
Tracklisting:

'Devouring'
'Bloodsoaked Disarray'
'Abysmal Descent'
'Voices Of Endless Decay'
'Boiling Blood'
'Ode To The End'
'From The Darkness'
'Decomposition'

'Devouring':

Drammen, Norway-based black metallers KOLDBRANN welcome new live bassist, Malphas.

Says Koldbrann: "Malphas (HAGL, ENDEZZMA, BEASTCRAFT live) will be joining Koldbrann for the upcoming live appearances at Hammerslagfestival Vinterblot in Tønsberg and Blastfest in Bergen.

Since the departure of longtime member S.G.J. (aka S. Johnskareng) last autumn, Mannevond has been handling the bass duties. With Malphas aboard, Koldbrann are once again ready to hit the stage as a furious five-headed beast!"
The band's live itinerary can be found here.

CALIBAN have released a trailer for the bonus DVD included with the band's new album, Ghost Empire.
Produced by Görtz in cooperation with Benny Richter, the Ghost Empire album will be released on the following dates via Century Media Records:

Germany/Austria/Switzerland/Australia /New Zealand: January 24th
Rest of Europe: January 27th
US/Canada: February 4th
Tracklisting:

'King'
'Chaos - Creation'
'Wolves And Rats'
'Nebel'
'I Am Ghost'
'Devil's Night'
'Your Song'
'Cries And Whispers'
'Good Man'
'I Am Rebellion'
'Who We Are'
'My Vertigo'

'Devil's Night' video:
'King' lyric video:
Caliban recently announced three exclusive record release shows for Ghost Empire. It is one of the few times you can catch the band in small, sweaty clubs in their native Germany.
Dates (with ANY GIVEN DAY) include:

January
23 - Berlin, Germany - Cassiopeia
24 - Cologne, Germany - Luxor
25 - Munich, Germany - Strom

You can buy your exclusive hard tickets at this location

Caliban have announced a string of Russian dates in February and March, in support of Ghost Empire.
Russian Ghost Empire Tour 2014 dates include:

February
6 - Kaliningrad, Russia - Kuri Bambuk Club
7 - Saint-Petersburg, Russia - Zal Ozhidaniya Club
8 - Moscow, Russia - Theater Club
9 - Kazan, Russia - Zheltaya Kofta Club
10 - Samara, Russia - Zvezda Club
11 - Saratov, Russia - Variete Club
12 - Volgograd, Russia - InRock Club
14 - Rostov-On-Don, Russia - Podzemka Club
15 - Krasnodar, Russia - Arena Hall
16 - Voronezh, Russia - 100 Ruchiev Club
17 - Orel, Russia - Sfera T
18 - Bryansk, Russia - Red Bar
19 - Smolensk, Russia - A Club
21 - Ryazan, Russia - Dom Kulturi Club
22 - Nizhniy Novgorod, Russia - MILO Concert Hall
23 - Yaroslavl, Russia - Avangard Club
26 - Chelyabinsk, Russia - Megachel Club
27 - Ekaterinburg, Russia - Nirvana Club
28 - Novosibirsk, Russia - Rock City Club

March
1 - Krasnoyarsk, Russia - Era Club
2 - Irkutsk, Russia - Megapolis Club
4 - Khabarovsk, Russia - Velicano Club
5 - Vladivostok, Russia - TKK Underground

In May, Caliban will be heading out on the next edition of the Progression Tour 2014. Don’t miss your chance to see Caliban on one billing with THE GHOST INSIDE, THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, I KILLED THE PROM QUEEN, and BREAKDOWN OF SANITY.

Dates include:

May
4 - Frankfurt, Germany - Batschkapp
6 - Cologne, Germany - Live Music Hall
7 - Hamburg, Germany - Grosse Freiheit 36
8 - Berlin, Germany - Huxleys Neue Welt
9 - Leipzig, Germany - Werk 2
10 - Muenster, Germany - Skaters Palace
11 - Stuttgart, Germany - LKA Longhorn
13 - Nuernberg, Germany - Löwensaal
14 - Vienna, Austria - Arena
15 - Roncade, Italy - New Age Club
16 - Milan, Italy - Factory Club
17 - Zuerich, Switzerland - Komplex 457
18 - Munich, Germany - Theaterfabrik
20 - Amsterdam, Netherlands - Melkweg

Singer Geoff Tate — who was fired from the Seattle progressive rock band QUEENSRŸCHE in 2012 after fronting it for three decades — and his former bandmates have once again requested more time to hammer out a settlement in their legal battle over the rights to the group's name.

King County Superior Court Judge Beth Andrus has signed a new stipulation and order continuing trial date, allowing the parties three more weeks to come to an agreement over the use of the QUEENSRŸCHE name and its associated trademarks. If they cannot reach an agreement during that period, the trial is set to begin on March 3, or the earliest date thereafter that is convenient for the Court.

Tate and his former bandmates previously requested two additional weeks in January to work on the details of their settlement agreement.

During an appearance earlier this monthg at the studios of the 98.7 The Gater radio station in West Palm Beach, Florida, Tate was asked for an update on the legal battle between him and his former bandmates over the rights to the QUEENSRŸCHE name. "Actually, we're in settlement talks right now," Tate said. "I hope it doesn't [go to trial]. I'm kind of hoping that it will all be settled by the end of the month."

Pressed on how he thinks it will all play out, Tate replied: "Either way, it's in my favor. So I'm just waiting for the paperwork to be dry."

Tate and his wife, Susan, QUEENSRŸCHE's former manager, filed a lawsuit in June 2012 asking the judge to award them the rights to the band's name in exchange for Tate paying Eddie Jackson (bass), Michael Wilton (guitar) and Scott Rockenfield (drums) the fair market value for their interests in the QUEENSRŸCHE companies. Wilton, Rockenfield and Jackson filed a countersuit against the Tates in which they accused Geoff of creative obstruction and violent behavior, and Susan Tate of questionable business practices.

While ruling against Tate, the presiding judge determined that there was no legal hurdle in Tate also using the name with an all-new lineup of musicians. "I don't see any reason that Mr. Tate can't have the benefit, if he gets other members, of whatever name he uses of using the brand," Superior Court Judge Carol A. Schapira said during the July 13, 2012 court hearing. "I think [doing that would be] inherently confusing, although I'm sure the market can get these things sorted out," she added.

Wilton, Rockenfield and Jackson last year accused Geoff Tate of "continu[ing] to harm the QUEENSRŸCHE brand" since the Tates' original lawsuit was filed in June 2012. In a court document, they wrote: "The newest self-titled QUEENSRŸCHE CD release by the [Todd La Torre-fronted version of the band] entered the U.S. charts at #23 and continues to get 9-out-of-10-star reviews and is still selling very well on a weekly basis around the globe. In comparison, Geoff Tate released his own QUEENSRŸCHE CD in April of [2013] titled 'Frequency Unknown' and depicted as F.U. on the cover, which entered the charts at #82, received very bad reviews around the world, and has slowed to almost no more weekly sales. [The Todd La Torre-fronted version of QUEENSRŸCHE's] new CD even outperformed the last two CDs of them with Geoff Tate, selling more in a month than the 'Dedicated to Chaos' CD has since its release in 2010, and charting much better than both that album and the previous one, 'American Soldier'. Thus, the return to the classic sound [Tate's former] bandmates have made with the new CD and live shows has been met with overwhelming success."

They added: "Geoff Tate also chose very poorly in hiring live musicians that have shown that they are not capable of representing the correct performances of the QUEENSRŸCHE music legacy, and he was constantly replacing them. He has been offering his low-quality version of QUEENSRŸCHE to the promoters at a much reduced rate, as low as $10,000 per night, when, in fact, [his former] bandmates have done their best to keep the authorized QUEENSRŸCHE at an average of well over $20,000 per show this entire year. However, this becomes harder and harder with Geoff Tate's sub-par band and cut-rate pricing that continues to be damaging to the QUEENSRŸCHE brand and legacy no matter who ultimately wins control after trial."

In an interview with The Oakland Press, Rockenfield said said that "negotiations are ongoing between Tate and the singer's former bandmates and "there's still time for anything to happen between now and [the start of the trial]."

"I think our confidence is pretty high," Scott said. "There's a lot of legal stuff you have to deal with, but we just feel good and look at it as a light at the end of the tunnel and keep playing shows and making music. I think when you do that, the right decision will be made in time."

20 years after its original release, preparations started for the ultimate anniversary edition of CLAWFINGER's classic album, "Deaf Dumb Blind", one of the most important crossover albums of the 1990s. "Deaf Dumb Blind" was turned into "Deafer Dumber Blinder" (which can be taken as a promise considering content of the extensive reissue):

CD 1: Original Album - Deaf Dumb Blind CD 2: The Best Of B-Sides (17 Tracks) CD 3: The Best Of Demos (20 Tracks) DVD: Live In Woodstock + Documentary, MTV Specials & more

"Deafer Dumber Blinder" will be released on March 7 in Europe and April 15 in North America via AFM Records.

Comments CLAWFINGER guitarist Bård Torstensen: "None of us would have thought in the early Nineties that we ould live our dream for almost two decades, travel the world and play for millions of people on three continents (Europe, America, Asia).

"Our anniversary box, 'Deafer Dumber Blinder', reflects pretty much what CLAWFINGER is all about.

"Enjoy the unreleased demotracks from early days up 'till 2005, a bunch of good B-sides, the classics from 'Deaf Dumb Blind', and have fun with a live DVD from Woodstock Festival Poland where we played in front of more than 100,000 people back in 2009. This DVD also contains bonus material. (2 Scandinavian documentaries, festival clips, MTV Most Wanted)."

Adds CLAWFINGER frontman Zak Tell: "'Deafer, Bumber, Blinder', the last and the tastiest piece of chocolate in the box is coming your way. It's a treat so sweet you just can't resist it. Demos, B-sides, Live footage, photos, the story of CLAWFINGER's humble beginning and more.

"This sucker comes with material no one has ever seen or heard before and it will be in stores shortly so be sure to keep your ears and eyes open and scream your heart out when it arrives.

"The kings are dead, long live the kings."

Says CLAWFINGER keyboardist Jocke Skog: "We've gone through a lot of stuff to make this a box worth owning.

"It's a tad late for an anniversary box since we released the first one back in 1993, but in this era where everything is online, it doesn't matter that much.

"Enjoy! I know I will."

CLAWFINGER's final studio album, "Life Will Kill You", was released in the U.S. in July 2008 via Locomotive Records. The CD, which entered the German Media Control chart at position No. 89 upon its European release in 2007, was recorded and produced at Sweden's Fear And Loathing Studios, a facility that CLAWFINGER runs along with the members of MESHUGGAH.

US power/heavy metal band NINTH CIRCLE have released a new video, for the song 'After The Rain', from the upcoming album, Legions Of The Brave.
Ninth Circle kicks off 2014 with their first show of the year with SCORPIONS great and German guitar legend ULI JON ROTH as part of the NAMM Show 2014 weekend. The band will be performing as special guests of the Uli Jon Roth Sky Academy along with very special guests Don Dokken and Vinny Appice (BLACK SABBATH, DIO, KILL DEVIL HILL).

“It is a terrific opportunity to play alongside Scorpions’ legend Uli Jon Roth, Black Sabbath great Vinny Appice and the melodic vocal maestro Don Dokken”, expresses bassist Frank Forray. “We are kicking off 2014 the right way by performing with one of the most influential guitarist of all times, Uli Jon Roth.”

“We have met Uli a handful times and he always been incredibly warm, friendly and open about his career. A very close friend of ours provided Uli a rehearsal space on one of his last tours to the States and we were able to hang out with Uli and watch his show from the front row. He is a one-of-a-kind! We learned a lot from watching prepare and perform.”

Ninth Circle is preparing for the third release on German label Pure Rock Records. The new album, Legions Of The Brave, will see Ninth Circle take on the world with their world-wide release and bring melodic metal to the masses.

Ninth Circle schedule:

January
25 – Santa Ana, CA – Malone’s NAMM show (with Uli John Roth)

August
2 – Apple Valley, CA – Throwback Metal Fest

For more on the Ninth Circle event with Uli John Roth visit this location.

"Down The Ashes Rain", the new video from POISONBLACK — the Finnish band featuring former SENTENCED frontman Ville Laihiala — can be seen below. The song is taken from POISONBLACK's sixth studio album, "Lyijy", which was released on September 13, 2013. The CD was recorded at Sonic Pump studio in Helsinki and Victory Audio studio in Kokkola with producer Jonas Olsson.

The CD's opening track, "Home Is Where the Sty Is", was released as the first single and video.

"Lyijy" track listing:

01. Home Is Where The Sty Is02. Down The Ashes Rain03. The Flavor Of The Month04. The Absentee05. Maybe Life Is Not For Everyone06. Death By The Blues07. The Halfway Bar08. Them Walls09. Blackholehead10. Pull The Trigger11. Elämän Kevät

POISONBLACK's fifth CD, "Drive", entered the official chart in Finland at position No. 3.

Progressive-rock powerhouse BIGELF will release its fourth studio album, "Into The Maelstrom", on April 1 in North America via InsideOut Music.

"Into The Maelstrom" marks the BIGELF recording debut of drummer Mike Portnoy (TRANSATLANTIC, THE WINERY DOGS, DREAM THEATER), whose Progressive Nation At Sea cruise the band will perform on between February 18 and February 22, 2014, playing alongside such bands as TRANSATLANTIC, DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT, RIVERSIDE and ADRIAN BELEW POWER TRIO.

Comments BIGELF frontman and mastermind Damon Fox: "I think 'Into The Maelstrom' is the best BIGELF record yet and I believe it is a real game changer for the band. It's gonna put us over the top! Psychedelic cinematic landscapes and melodic prog-doom set the stage for the new album. I cannot wait for fans (old and new) to experience all of its apocalyptic color."

"Into The Maelstrom" will be available on a limited 2CD digipak which includes exclusive remixes and demo versions, as well as a gatefold 2LP vinyl edition which includes the full album on CD.

"Into The Maelstrom" track listing:

01. Incredible Time Machine02. Hypersleep03. Already Gone04. Alien Frequency05. The Professor & The Madman06. Mr. Harry McQuhae07. Vertigod08. Control Freak09. High10. Edge of Oblivion11. Theater of Dreams12. ITM: I. Destination Unknown / II. Harbinger Of Death / III. Memories

This spring, French progressive metallers GOJIRA will release "Les Enfants Sauvages", a limited edition 5" x 7", 60-page hardcover photo book chronicling the band's journey around the world over the last two years, since the release of their critically acclaimed Roadrunner debut, "L'Enfant Sauvage". The images were taken around the globe, spanning over 150 shows on three continents, and were hand-selected by GOJIRA guitarist/vocalist Joseph Duplantier and his brother, drummer Mario Duplantier. The package also includes a live CD and DVD capturing last year's performance at the legendary Brixton Academy in London, England. In addition to the CD/DVD/book, a bundle that includes an exclusive T-shirt is available. Pre-orders are available now for delivery by March 11.

"Les Enfants Sauvages" track listing:

01. Intro02. Explosia03. Flying Whales04. Backbone05. The Heaviest Matter Of The Universe06. L'Enfant Sauvage07. Toxic Garbage Island08. Wisdom Comes09. Jam10. Oroborus11. Drum Solo12. The Axe13. The Gift Of Guilt

A trailer for "Les Enfants Sauvages" is available below.

GOJIRA has also premiered a live performance of "Flying Whales" along with a gallery of images from "Les Enfants Sauvages" over at Noisey.

GOJIRA's fifth album, "L'Enfant Sauvage", sold almost 11,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 34 on The Billboard 200 chart. The band's previous CD, "The Way Of All Flesh", opened with 4,200 units back in 2008 to land at No. 138.

"L'Enfant Sauvage" entered the official chart in France at position No. 7 (No. 17 on the digital chart).

"L'Enfant Sauvage" (which translates to "The Wild Child") features 11 tracks of mind-bending, thunderous metal. The CD was recorded at Spin Recording Studios in Long Island City, New York with co-producer Josh Wilbur (LAMB OF GOD).

Fan-filmed video footage of former SLAYER and current PHILM drummer Dave Lombardo and his PHILM bandmate Gary Nestler performing a cover version of LED ZEPPELIN's "Since I've Been Loving You" during the Bonzo Bash NAMM Jamm 2014 "The Ultimate Celebration To The Ultimate Drummer - John Henry Bonham Of Led Zeppelin", on Thursday, January 23 at The Observatory, in Santa Ana, California can be seen below.

Asked if Bonham was an early inspiration on his playing, Lombardo told The Nervous Breakdown: "He showed me groove. He showed me dynamic by listening to his playing.

"When they played, it elevated. Although the tempo didn't build, there was something in the playing that just made it come up, and you're feeling, 'Oh man, that feels great,' and then they bring it down and groovy."

He continued: "I don't know, I think I feel music more than a lot of people do. You know, it's how you hit the drum. It's not the execution of the hit. It's not how many paradiddles you can do or how fast you can do it, it's how you execute the beat."

Lombardo sat out SLAYER's Australian tour in February/March 2013 due to a contract dispute with the other members of the group. Filling in for him was Jon Dette (TESTAMENT, ANTHRAX). Dave has since been replaced in the band by Paul Bostaph, who was SLAYER's drummer from 1992 until 2001 and recorded four albums with the group.

During an appearance on "The Steve Austin Show - Unleashed!" podcast, SLAYER guitarist Kerry King stated about the band's latest split with Lombardo: "When Dave was in [the band] this last time, I figured I'd be on the stage with him until one of us fell off the stage, dead. Things change. He got some bad advice and listened to some bad advice, gave us an ultimatum ten days before we went to Australia [to do the Soundwave festival tour]. And I said, 'I can't have this over my head.' And I feel bad for Dave to this day; I really feel bad for him because he shot himself in the foot. Maybe he thought he had the upper hand, but you ain't gonna get me…. Before I got home, I knew exactly what I was going to do for Australia."

In March, Lombardo will take part in an Adelaide Festival concert in Adelaide, Australia with avant-garde musician John Zorn.

Lombardo will perform with John Zorn and Bill Laswell as part of the BLADERUNNER trio.

Fan-filmed video footage of ANTHRAX drummer Charlie Benante performing during the Bonzo Bash NAMM Jamm 2014 "The Ultimate Celebration To The Ultimate Drummer - John Henry Bonham Of Led Zeppelin" on Thursday, January 23 at The Observatory, in Santa Ana, California can be seen below.

"Bonzo Bash" is the "celebration show" that John Bonham freak/worshipper/drum lifer Brian Thomas Tichy (WHITESNAKE, FOREIGNER, OZZY OSBOURNE, BILLY IDOL) put together to pay tribute to the one and only drummer he has never stopped listening to and being inspired by since he was 10 years old.

Due later this year, ANTHRAX's next album will mark the recording debut with the band of lead guitarist Jonathan Donais (SHADOWS FALL), who replaced Rob Caggiano in January 2013.

"Worship Music" has sold more than 110,000 copies in the United States since its September 2011 release, according to Nielsen SoundScan.

Fan-filmed video footage of HATRIOT — the San Francisco Bay Area thrash metal band led by former EXODUS and LEGACY (pre-TESTAMENT) frontman Steve "Zetro" Souza — performing a cover version of EXODUS' "The Last Act Of Defiance" on January 18 at Spancky's in Cotati, California can be seen below.

HATRIOT's sophomore album, "Dawn Of The New Centurion", has had its release date pushed back to February 21 from the previously announced January 24 through Massacre Records. The band once again used producer Juan Urteaga and graphic artist Mark DeVito for the new effort, which will be made available on CD and digital download, as well as a limited-edition CD digipak with bonus tracks, and a limited-edition vinyl LP.

"Dawn Of The New Centurion" track listing:

01. From My Cold Dead Hands02. Your Worst Enemy03. The Fear Within04. Honor The Rise And Fall05. Superkillafragsadisticactsaresoatrocious06. Silence In The House Of The Lord07. World Funeral08. Dawn Of The New Centurion09. Consolation For The Insane

"Over the past year, HATRIOT has grown tighter as a band, and the songs on the new record will reflect that," said Souza. "The songs are longer and more melodic, while keeping the classic thrash metal feel that we are known for.

"'Heroes Of Origin' was our 'Kill 'Em All', and 'Dawn Of The New Centurion' is our 'Ride The Lightning'."

The first single from "Dawn Of The New Centurion" will be "The Fear Within".

HATRIOT's drummer is none other than Steve's son, Nicholas Souza. Nicholas auditioned for the band after the departure of Alex Bent and "proved himself to be the best choice," according to Steve.

HATRIOT's lineup also includes Zetro's son Cody, who got his first bass as a present from his father after Zetro bought it off current EXODUS bassist Jack Gibson.

Regarding HATRIOT's musical direction, Zetro said, "It's in the vein of typical Bay Area thrash, but these guys are a lot younger, so there's gonna be some blast-beats in there. There's gonna be some kind of death [metal] approach to it, a little bit. 'Cause these guys are new. They're raw, and they're fast, young, heavy, hard and aggressive, and I'm trying to convey that along as well."

He added, "These new kids seem to understand what we did in the '80s, but still bring a little bit of a new essence to it. We put that together with what I write vocally and it's turned out to be really, really killer. It's good stuff."

Lavadome has announced the signing of Long Island, New York's death metal unit DAY OF DOOM. The label will re-release band's third album, The Gates Of Hell, this spring. The Gates Of Hell was released by the band independently in 2013.
Tracklisting:
'The Gates Of Hell'
'Fathers Lies'
'Embrace Your Demise'
'Slaughter Of The Lamb'
'An Evil Demoncy (The Last Days Of Doom)'
'Circle Of Eternal Aftermath'
'The Vomitorium Angel'
'Feasting On The Flesh Of The Godly Ones'
'Reborn Through Oblivion Flames'
'Through Horrible Despair;
'Remnants Of The Spirits In The Cavern Of Displeasure'

Below you can stream the track 'Through Horrible Despair':

The Gates Of Hell by DAY OF DOOM

Professionally filmed video footage of the entire June 8, 2013 performance by the Swedish "punk ass rot 'n' roll" band HELLTRAIN at the Rock 'N' Sich festival in Kiev, Ukraine can be seen below. There are also plans to get the footage released as a physical DVD.

HELLTRAIN's latest album, "Death Is Coming", was made available in 2012. Physical albums were released by TPL Records (Scandinavia) and Metalism Records (Russia, Baltic states). The CD was finalized at Dugout Studio in Uppsala, Sweden with producer Daniel Bergstrand (MESHUGGAH, BEHEMOTH, IN FLAMES) at the helm.

Ever since parting ways with Jimmy Franks Recording Company, the record label owned by BLOODHOUND GANG lead singer Jimmy Pop, HELLTRAIN has been working hard on establishing its own indepence. The group has built its own studio and is working with a model where fans can get HELLTRAIN's music for free.

Tim "Ripper" Owens (JUDAS PRIEST, ICED EARTH, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, DIO DISCIPLES) and Mark Boals (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, ROYAL HUNT) are among the guest musicians who will appear on the new metal opera "The Legend Of Valley Doom". Also scheduled to appear are vocalists Artur Almeida (ATTICK DEMONS), George Tsalikis (ZANDELLE) and John Yelland (DISFORIA, JUDICATOR) and Elisa C. Martin (HAMKA, DARK MOOR, FAIRYLAND), bassist Giorgio Novarino (CRYSTAL EMPIRE, BEJELIT) and guitarist Kristian Tjelle (NOCUTURNAL ILLUSION).

The story takes place in a land called Valley Doom. There are rumors about the rising of a new great evil, and it is coming their way. It's fortold in the ancient scrolls that when Valley Doom's future and existence is at stake, thechosen one will rise. His name is the warrior king.

Part 1 of The Legend of Valley Doom is about the King and the wizard named Arigo's journey to find the Warrior King and fulfill the prophecy.

The Metal Opera is in three parts. There's also a fantasy book on the way that digs deeper into the story about Valley Doom.

The "Valley Doom" crew:

Marius Danielsen (DARKEST SINS) - Vocals, guitar Peter Danielsen (EUNOMIA, Darkest Sins) - Synth Esa Ahonen (CRYONIC TEMPLE) - Guitar Anniken Rasmussen (DARKEST SINS) - Bass Ludvig Pedersen (DARKEST SINS) - Drums

Dutch hard rockers VANDERBUYST have released a brand new seven-inch single entitled "Shakira / Little Sister" to coincide with the start of their extended European tour. The two tracks were recorded between Christmas and New Year with producers Danny Gras and Marcel Van De Vondervoort.

The song "Little Sister" was written by guitarist Willem Verbuyst for his little sister who is playing the main role in the accompanying home-video clip. Guest vocals on the track were provided by Farida Lemouchi (ex-THE DEVIL'S BLOOD).

Along with ENFORCER (Sweden), SKULLFIST (Canada) and GENGIS KHAN (Italy), VANDERBUYST will play 30 shows in 31 days in 13 different countries. The trek will kick off on January 30 at Melkweg in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

San Francisco Bay Area metallers KILL RITUAL will release their second album, "The Eyes Of Medusa", on April 4 via Golden Core Records / ZYX Music. The CD was recorded at Fossil Sound in San Jose, California and Fang Studio in San Mateo, California. Production and engineering was again handled by KILL RITUAL guitarist Steven Rice. The mix and mastering were completed by Steven Rice and Andy La Rocque (KING DIAMOND). The cover artwork was created by Jobert Mello of Sledgehammer Graphix (SABATON, PRIMAL FEAR) and can be seen below.

"The Eyes Of Medusa" track listing:

01. The Eyes Of Medusa02. Hair Trigger03. Never Get Me04. Ride Into The Night05. Weight Of The World06. Writing On The Wall07. Just Another Sin08. My Little Sister09. Unleashed10. Agenda 21

An audio preview of the album is available using the SoundCloud widget below.

KILL RITUAL's debut album, "The Serpentine Ritual", was released in October 2012 via Scarlet Records.

KILL RITUAL is:

Josh "Crimson" Gibson - VocalsSteven Rice (ex-IMAGIKA) - Guitar Danyael "Laughing" Bear (ex-DARK ANGEL) - Bass Gee Anzalone (BRAIN DAMAGE) - Drums

Swedish heavy/power metal band AZORIA will release its debut album, "Seasons Change", on February 5 in Japan and February 28 in the rest of the world.

AZORIA was founded in early 2013 by the band leader and lead guitarist Alexander Oriz.

Oriz has spent the last few years working as a producer, songwriter, guitarist and technician. Oriz is also one of the guitar players in the power metal band REINXEED, which released a studio album, "A New World", in 2013.

In AZORIA, we also find Chris David, the bass player of retro rockers CAPTAIN CRIMSON and power metal acts REINXEED and ORIZ.

Chris came back from the U.S. in 2012 to join REINXEED after a year of studying and touring with the band SLEDGE LEATHER, which also features lead vocalist Leather Leone (CHASTAIN) and keyboard player Scott Warren (DIO, HEAVEN & HELL).

The CD features fantastic all-star team with different vocalists, just like AVANTASIA, to make the best possible result for each song.

On the opening track, "Just Like The Phoenix", and on the song "Inside My Heart", we find none other Tommy ReinXeed from the successful bands REINXEED and GOLDEN RESURRECTION on lead vocals.

Mikael Dahl from CRYSTAL EYES sings in a majestic way on the title track, "Seasons Change", while Mike Andersson from FULL FORCE, CLOUDSCAPE and AYREON can be heard on "Prophecy" and "To The Land Of Glory".

Snowy Shaw, who is known for his great work in SABATON, KING DIAMOND, DREAM EVIL, THERION and DIMMU BORGIR, sings on the songs "Peace Of Mind" and "Starlight". He also performs a cover version of ALPHAVILLE's "Big In Japan" that will be the Japanese bonus track on AZORIA's debut album.

AZORIA is:

Alex Oriz - Lead GuitarChris David - BassSimon J - GuitarEmil Eriksson - Drums

"Seasons Change" guest musicians:

Snowy Shaw - Lead VocalsMike Andersson - Lead VocalsMikael Dahl - Lead VocalsMark E Gunnardo - Lead VocalsTommy ReinXeed - Lead VocalsMatilda Eriksson - Lead Vocals

Swedish riff gods GRAND MAGUS have debuted a new trailer their upcoming seventh album, Triumph And Power, which will be released on January 31st in Europe, February 3rd in the UK, and February 4th in North America via Nuclear Blast.
Commented the band: “This is our strongest album yet, it has the northern feel, it has the power and the melody that has become our mark of excellence. Fans of true metal will take this album to their hearts. To top everything off, we have the striking and epic artwork of Anthony Roberts. The album cover perfectly captures the work on this album and Grand Magus as a band. Stay true!”
Triumph And Power tracklisting:

'On Hooves Of Gold'
'Steel Versus Steel'
'Fight'
'Triumph And Power'
'Dominator'
'Arv'
'Holmgång'
'The Naked And The Dead'
'Ymer'
'The Hammer Will Bite'

Bonus:
'Blackmoon'

'Steel Versus Steel':
'Triumph And Power' lyric video:
Trailer:

Grand Magus once again engaged with Nico Elgstrand as a producer, who already had his hands on the controllers for The Hunt, as well as the engineering force of Staffan Karlsson at Studio Sweetspot in Halmstad, who has worked with ARCH ENEMY and he mixed the most recent record of SPIRITUAL BEGGARS.
More on Grand Magus at Facebook.

MOTÖRHEAD has been forced to cancel its previously announced European tour, originally rescheduled from last fall.

"It is with great regret that MOTÖRHEAD has to announce the cancellation of their European tour, scheduled to start February, 2014," reads a statement from the band.

"Many concerted, diligent and focused efforts were made by founding member, and international icon Lemmy Kilmister to deal with a range of health issues relating to diabetes. While there has been undoubted progress, Lemmy and the band were advised by doctors that it was still too soon to resume full touring activities, and so for the good of the future, the band and Lemmy reluctantly agreed to cancel.

"No one is hurting more over this than Lemmy, and he feels the aggravation and inconvenience of every ticket, and every method of transportation, already paid for by loyal fans in anticipation of the tour. Being a road warrior of over 50 dedicated, non-stop years, it is equally distressing for him to be unable to occupy the top lounge of the trusty tour bus (his spiritual home) but Lemmy recognizes that his long-term health must win. It goes without saying that Lemmy profusely apologises for inconveniences caused, but he does want everyone to know that he is continuing on the road to a full recovery, and that the prognosis long term is very good."

Since being diagnosed with diabetes in 2000, Lemmy's had to have a defibrillator installed in his heart, and more recently suffered from an "unspecified hematoma," which led to the cancellation of several European shows last summer. Factor in a daily intake of smokes, speed and Jack and Coke for the last 40-plus years, and it's a wonder he's alive at all. After decades of invincibility, the cracks are finally showing. Lemmy has had to make some difficult adjustments. "I had to give up the Jack and Coke because of the sugar," he told Decibel magazine. "I miss it. I gave up smoking, too. I gave up bread. It's been a bit of a job, you know?"

Longtime MOTÖRHEAD manager Todd Singerman told Decibel: "[Lemmy's] been up and down. He's got a really bad diabetic problem, and it changes on a daily basis. A lot of it is just fighting the bad habits, the things that he's not supposed to do anymore. He's stopped smoking, but he probably sneaks Jack and Coke here and there. He'd be lying to you if he said he stopped. He's been trying to substitute it with wine, and I'm sure he's slowed down on the speed. He thinks wine's better than Jack, but it's still got tons of sugar, you know? He doesn't grasp that he's just trading one demon for the other. That was the compromise with the doctors, by the way — trade the Jack for the wine. But he doesn't tell them he's drinking two fucking bottles, either. These are the battles we're up against. Keep in mind, he's been doing all this stuff on a daily basis since Hendrix. And it's coming to roost. It's sad for him, because he's gotten away with this stuff for all this time.

"I made them cancel [last fall's European tour], because Lemmy's not ready," Singerman explained. "He didn't wanna cancel. But what was gonna go down is what happened in Europe over the summer. See, he fucked up in Europe. He was supposed to rest for three months, and he refused. He ended up doing that show [Wacken Open Air in August], which he wasn't supposed to do, and it ended up being 105 degrees "Out there. He's playing direct in the fucking sun. The only thing I'm proud of him for is stopping when it didn't feel good. That was smart of him. The bottom line is that he needs to find a balance and then live that balance for a few months. But we can't find the balance yet. He has great days and then he fucks it up. And when you fuck up, you go backwards."

Lemmy, who turned 68 years old in December, told Classic Rock he didn't expect to still be here at 30,

"I don't do regrets," he said. "Regrets are pointless. It's too late for regrets. You've already done it, haven't you? You've lived your life. No point wishing you could change it.

"There are a couple of things I might have done differently, but nothing major; nothing that would have made that much of a difference.

"I'm pretty happy with the way things have turned out. I like to think I've brought a lot of joy to a lot of people all over the world. I'm true to myself and I'm straight with people."

Asked if his illness last year has made him more aware of his own mortality, Lemmy said: "Death is an inevitability, isn't it? You become more aware of that when you get to my age. I don't worry about it. I'm ready for it. When I go, I want to go doing what I do best. If I died tomorrow, I couldn't complain. It's been good."

Finnish dark/ doom metal act HANGING GARDEN have released a video for 'Will You Share This Ending With Me', the digital bonus track from their new EP, I Was A Soldier, out via Lifeforce Records.
The video was directed by Ristomatti Rinne, who comments on the production: "After the cinematic implementation of the 'At Every Door' video we decided to use a somewhat different approach with 'Will You Share This Ending With Me'. We came up with an idea of a karaoke video, which comes to life and begins to tell its own story. The whole video was shot in one take although some editing has been made afterwards. All the events you see happen in real time."
I Was A Soldier EP tracklisting:

'Winter To Summer Adverse'
'I Was A Soldier'
'Will You Share This Ending With Me' (digital bonus track)

'I Was A Soldier' lyric video:
Teaser:
More on Hanging Garden at Facebook.

Ottawa, Canada's progressive rock sextet THE KINDRED (formerly known as TODAY I CAUGHT THE PLAGUE) will release their debut Sumerian Records full-length entitled, Life In Lucidity, on February 25th. They will also embark on a North American tour alongside BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME in February/March. The band has now released a video for ‘Everbound’.
Life In Lucidity tracklisting:

‘Wolvish’
‘Heritage’
‘Everbound’
‘An Evolution Of Thought’
‘Decades’
‘Millennia’
‘A Grand Debate’
‘Seekers & Servants’
‘Dreambender’
‘Like A Long Life’
‘Cimmerian Dusk’ (bonus track)

‘Heritage’:
Vocalist David Journeaux previously stated: “The album title, Life In Lucidity, relates to the concept of life being nothing more than a very lucid dream, wherein if you were to wake from it you may either wake in to another dream or in to true reality. It also toys with the notion that if you can realize you are dreaming within this world you can gain complete control over everything that happens within it; complete responsibility for the path your life takes. We are incredibly excited to get this album out to the public and to take the songs to stages across the globe. Being able to start the process with Between The Buried And Me is a bit of a dream-manifestation in itself, as a number of us have been big fans of the band for many years, and have always named them an act with whom we would love to tour one day."
Tour dates with Between The Buried And Me, INTRONAUT, and DEAFHAVEN:

February
20 - West Springfield, VA - Empire
21 - Huntington, NY - Paramount Theater
22 - Clifton Park, NY - Upstate Concert Hall
23 - Boston, MA - Royale Nightclub
24 - Burlington, VT - Higher Ground
26 - Montreal, QC - Corona Theater
27 - Quebec City, QC - Imperial De Quebec
28 - Toronto, ON - Phoenix Concert Theatre

March
1 - London, ON - London Music Hall
2 - Syracuse, NY - Lost Horizon
4 - Grand Rapids, MI - Intersection
5 - Palatine, IL - Durty Nellie's
6 - Milwaukee, WI - The Rave
7 - Lawrence, KS - Granada Theatre
8 - Omaha, NE - The Waiting Room
10 - Reno, NV - The Knitting Factory
11 - Oakland, CA - Oakland Metro
12 - Pomona, CA - Glasshouse
14 - Lubbock, TX - Jake's Sports Café
15 - San Antonio, TX - White Rabbit
16 - Grand Prairie, TX - South By So What?! Festival
18 - Sauget, IL - Pop's
20 - Ybor City, FL - The Ritz Ybor
21 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Revolution
22 - Athens, GA - 40 Watt
23 - Charlotte, NC - Tremont Music Hall

The Kindred recently uploaded a new Volition Tour webisode, which is streaming below:
For more info visit Facebook.

Santa Cruz, CA death metal/grindcore misfits CRETIN have entered the studio to begin recording their long-awaited sophomore release. Due out this fall via Relapse Records, this will be the quartet's first new material in over 8 years. The album will be recorded at Compound Recordings in Santa Cruz, CA.
Bassist Matt Widener had this to say about the project: "We have entered Compound Recordings in Santa Cruz, CA to start recording our new album. As usual, we cretins are easily distracted and it takes us years to release anything, so we're excited to finally crest this stage of the album. Get ready for more cretanic song-stories and proto-grind, backwoods death metal - this time with extra women and a much bigger sound. With Freakery you grinded like it was ‘89, now you'll grind like it's, uh, ’91?"
More details on the album will be announced shortly.

London's DRIPBACK have released a lyric video for the track 'Profit Driven War', featured on their debut album release, due out January 20th digitally and March 24th on vinyl. Recorded with legendary audio wizard Russ Russell at Parlour Studios, Failed Futures features 13 tracks of uncompromising, loud, fast and furious metal with their trademark and undeniable London stamp all over," according to a press release.

“It’s been a long time coming but finally the Dripback album will see the light of day, and this is as pure as it gets,” says the band. “Direct from us to you, no labels, no bullshit. It’ll be on iTunes for the lazy cunts with their iPods and we’ll have a nice vinyl for people to get stuck into as well."

The full tracklisting is as follows:

'Wasted'
'Rest With The Dead'
'We Precede The End'
'Cessation Of Suffering'
'Profit Driven War'
'Shallow Lives'
'Seeing Without Eyes'
'Failed Futures'
'Victims'
'Stranglehold'
'Forgotten Code'
'Embodying Emptiness'
'Requisite For Refinement'

'Profit Driven War' lyric video: