Robert Reddy has uploaded quality video footage of METAL CHURCH's February 23 performance in Dallas, Texas. Check it out below.

"Generation Nothing", the tenth studio album from METAL CHURCH — Ronny Munroe on vocals, Kurdt Vanderhoof and Rick Van Zandt on guitar, Steve Unger on bass, and Jeff Plate on drums — sold around 600 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD was issued on October 22, 2013 via Kurdt's label Body Of Work Recordings in conjunction with Rat Pak Records.

"Generation Nothing" track listing:

01. Bullet Proof 02. Dead City 03. Generation Nothing 04. Noises In The Wall 05. Jump The Gun 06. Suiciety 07. Scream 08. Hits Keep Comin' 09. Close To The Bone 10. The Media Horse

According to Vanderhoof, "Generation Nothing" — which was recorded at Kurdt's English Channel studio in Washingtion — marks a "return to [METAL CHURCH's] classic metal sound. It has elements of the first album and 'The Dark', but still embraces the new sound of the band without chasing the past."

Munroe said in an interview with Metal Assault that the new METAL CHURCH effort would contain material that is "very reminiscent of the old days with some stuff that's very 'now.'" He added: "There's a bit of… I'm not going to say 'prog' because it's not, but there's a couple of elements in there that are a little bit progressive. For the most part, out of this batch of songs, they really sound more reminiscent of the early days than anything we've done before with this lineup. This excites me very much, and I think the fans are really going to dig it."

Regarding the circumstances that led to METAL CHURCH's breakup in 2009, Ronny said: "Well, in a nutshell, without going into a huge and long story here, it was certain aspects of things that had continued to happen to the band throughout its career. Not having the proper management and the proper people in place that were handling us. You know, we ended up taking some shows we shouldn't have taken and that just led to where Kurdt was really getting fed up and then we all kind of got that way. Basically, we figured before we end up disbanding because of other reasons such as maybe starting to fight with one another or whatnot, we decided to go ahead and end it then. We all ended up friends and we wanted to keep it that way. So I won't go into specifics, but we all know what the music industry is like now compared to what it was like back then. We just didn't have the right people in our camp."

Asked what the band is going to do differently this time around to avoid falling into the same trap, Ronny said: "This time around we're going to release this next record on Kurdt's label. Basically, Kurdt and the band and whatnot are taking a lot more control of the situation. Yes, maybe the downloading thing is even worse than 2009, but also on the other hand, if you know what you're doing and you use the Internet correctly, you can actually have success. Kurdt's been doing that with his prog band PRESTO BALLET and whatnot. In this day and age, the time is right to go and try something on your own. If it doesn't work, you can always end up going out and searching for a label or something. We're going to take a shot at it and see what happens and I think we're probably going to have some decent success."

In honor of her 30th anniverary as a performing artist, German metal queen Doro Pesch will celebrate with fans from all over the world with two separate-yet-unique shows on May 2 and May 3 at CCD Stadthalle in her hometown of Düsseldorf.

To coincide with Doro's anniversary concerts, Nuclear Blast will release "Raise Your Fist - 30 Years Anniversary-Edition", containing the re-release of the "Raise Your Fist" record and a bonus CD, "Powerful Passionate Favorites", featuring new and unreleased tracks, as well as Doro's cover versions of aongs by some of her favorite artists, such as LED ZEPPELIN, TINA TURNER, METALLICA and DIO. Another highlight is the French version of her hit "Raise Your Fist In The Air" as well as a new mix of "It Still Hurts", a duet along with MOTÖRHEAD's Lemmy Kilmister.

"Powerful Passionate Favorites" track listing:

01. It Still Hurts

The ballad featuring Doro and Lemmy, with a new mix from Jacob Hansen (VOLBEAT)

02. Léve Ton Poing Vers Le Ciel

The French version of the single "Raise Your Fist In The Air"

03. Babe I´m Gonna Leave You

Doro's cover version of the LED ZEPPELIN classic

04. Nutbush City Limits Doro's cover version of the TINA TURNER classic

05. Only You

New version of the track, written by Gene Simmons (KISS) in the year 1990 for Doro

06. Egypt (The Chains Are On)

Cover version of Doro's favorite Ronnie James Dio song

07. Nothing Else Matters

Doro's cover version of the most popular METALLICA classic

08. Warfare

New song, to be featured in the movie "Anuk 2", in which Doro again stars as the warrior Meha.

09. NYC Blues

Home-recorded demo version of a new track, recently recorded at Doro's apartment in New York

"Raise Your Fist" landed at position No. 65 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.

Candlelight Records has set a March 18 North American release date for "Salvation Of Innocents", the label debut from hardcore/metal pioneers EARTH CRISIS. Mixed by Chris "Zeuss" Harris (AGNOSTIC FRONT, TERROR, HATEBREED) the CD features twelve new tracks from the Syracuse-formed band. Production of the bold concept album offered the respected five-piece an extraordinary recording experience. Guitarist Scott Crouse shares: "The process for this album was new for us. We did most of it ourselves. The absence of pressure having to get things done by a certain time each day really gave us the freedom to try new ideas and critically listen to the songs. From the music, to the lyrical concept, to the comic book that brings the lyrics to life, we think we've created something pretty unique." The comic book Crouse mentions is the pairing of EARTH CRISIS with Black Mask Studios' Liberator comic. The hard-edged vigilante series will release its fifth edition simultaneously with the release of "Salvation". The Matt Miner-created comic brings its main character and the Salvation Of Innocents'' vivisection concept together in a commanding graphic landscape. Black Mask Studios co-founder Matt Pizzolo says, "It is crazy to me that it took twenty years for comics to produce a set of animal-minded vigilantes strong enough to roll with EARTH CRISIS. It is probably the most perfectly aligned superhero team-up ever." "Salvation Of Innocents" and Liberator will share original cover art from Chicago-based illustrator/painter Menton3. The comic will feature additional works by illustrators Rod Reis, Javier Aranda and Joaquin Pereyra. Liberator creator < Matt Miner says, "Working with EARTH CRISIS on the comic book side of 'Salvation Of Innocents' has been a dream project for me. Our styles, ethics, and ideologies are a fitting match and I'm super excited for folks to read the story."

"Salvation Of Innocents" track listing:

01. De-Desensitize02. Out Of The Cages03. Shiver04. The Morbid Glare05. Razors Through Flesh06. Depraved Indifference07. No Reason08. The Pallid Surgeon09. Devoted to Death10. Into Nothingness11. Tentacles of The Altering Eye12. Final Breath

The official lyric video for the song "Out Of The Cages" can be seen below. Talking candidly about the album's first single, "The Morbid Glare", Crouse says, "'The Morbid Glare' is a song that really challenged most of the band members mainly since it's the fastest tempo we've ever written at. Ian [Edwards, bassist] wrote the majority of the song, and we all had a common goal of trying new things on this record. This is certainly new territory for us. Working at this speed was uncomfortable at times," he says, "but we think the song really came out great in the end." No hardcore or metal fan can be unaware of EARTH CRISIS or the contributions the band has made to heavy music since their founding in 1989. Regardless of passing trends, the band has maintained their vision, dedication to their craft (and causes), and most importantly respected their fans. Media giants CNN, CBS and MTV have applauded the straightedge, vegan band that to date has released seven full-length albums, two EPs, and two live albums, their most recent, 2011's "Neutralize The Threat" (Century Media). EARTH CRISIS is vocalist Karl Buechner, guitarists Scott Crouse and Erick Edwards, bassist Ian Edwards, and drummer Dennis Merrick. Black Mask Studios was launched in spring 2013 by Matt Pizzolo (Occupy Comics) with partners Steve Niles (30 Days Of Night) and Brett Gurewitz (BAD RELIGION).

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

The "The Eyes Of Medusa" title track can be streamed in the YouTube clip 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

German progressive thrash metal veterans MEKONG DELTA will release their new album, "In A Mirror Darkly", in Scandinavia on April 23, in Germany on April 25, in the rest of Europe on April 28 and in the USA on April 29 through SPV/Steamhammer as CD, double gatefold LP with colored vinyl plus a CD in a cardboard sleeve and as a digital download.

MEKONG DELTA bassist/mastermind Ralf Hubert continues to stand for innovation and independence in 2014. All those looking for pure mainstream or mediocre muzak have to look elsewhere — MEKONG DELTA score again with their intelligence, unwillingness to compromise and courage.

"In A Mirror Darkly" and picks up, thematically, where its 2010 predecessor, "Wanderer On The Edge Of Time", left off.

"For me, music doesn't start with A and end with Z, it's an ongoing process," Ralf Hubert explains. "In this respect, you could call 'In A Mirror Darkly' the continuation of the 'Wanderer' theme, but it's no copy, it's an independent recording.

"Each MEKONG album sounds unique and forward-looking in the original sense of the term. As a composer, I consciously allow myself to drift to be able to consistently explore new horizons."

For almost thirty years, Germany's MEKONG DELTA has enjoyed an excellent reputation as an independent and exceptionally creative band in the world of progressive metal sounds. Albums such as "The Music Of Eric Zann" (1988) and "Pictures At An Exhibition" (1997) are considered classics of their kind. With their blend of prog metal, classical elements and thrash, the musicians are considered pioneers of a stylistic mix which has been emulated by a considerable number of epigones.

Martin LeMar (vocals), Ralf Hubert (bass), Erik Adam H. Grösch (guitar) and Alex Landenburg (drums) recorded a total of eight songs for "In A Mirror Darkly", including three instrumental numbers like the ingenious "Inside The Outside Of The Inside" with its diverse arrangements.

"Typically MEKONG DELTA, the new numbers all have a playing time of between five and seven minutes," says Ralf Hubert. "As far as I am concerned, that’s just the right time frame to gain sufficient stylistic depth without pushing the envelope or creating artistic ambiguities. I feel that we’ve once again found the right mix of complexity and uninterrupted leitmotiv."

"In A Mirror Darkly" track listing:

01. Introduction02. Ouverture03. The Armageddon Machine04. The Sliver in Gods Eye05. Janus06. Inside the Outside of the Inside07. Hindsight Bias08. Mutant Messiah

"Feel What I Feel", the new video from veteran Swiss rockers GOTTHARD, can be seen below. The song is taken from the band's new album, "BANG!", which will be released on April 7 through PIAS. GOTTHARD has been at home touring the globe for over 20 years throughout Europe, North and South America and Asia on the back of 14 studio and live albums. They have collected multiple gold and platinum awards on the way, selling almost three million records and appearing at the biggest, most important festivals on the map of rock. The dynamic boogie groove of the "BANG!" title track is also new ground for the band, reflecting their unbridled energy and pure confidence. Also worthy of mention is a duet with the unknown (so far) American vocalist Melody Tibbits on a ballad entitled "Maybe". As is the blues excursion the band takes in "Spread Your Wings". The final "Thank You" is a veritable epic complete with orchestra and goosebumps, flowing against radio friendly convention to a length of more than ten minutes. Written as a tribute to the departed mother of guitarist Leo Leoni, it serves as a homage to mothers everywhere.

The first single from the new album is "Feel What I Feel", a perfect demonstration of the group's talent for combining melodic vocals with strong guitar hooks. These songs are set against a background of classic GOTTHARD rock tunes like "Get Up 'N' Move On", "Jump The Gun" and "My Belief", which traditionally grace every album by the Swiss combo. All told, "BANG!" presents a compelling mix that is sure to take its rightful place in the proud legend of GOTTHARD.

Recorded and produced by Charlie Bauerfeind and GOTTHARD's own Leo Leoni at Yellow House Studios in Lugano in the Swiss canton of Tessin, "BANG!" was then mixed at the Dutch Wisseloord Studios (Mick Jagger, Paul McCartney, Tina Turner) by Ronald Prent, who has managed to keep the GOTTHARD sound but transport them into 2014. No wonder, after all Prent has worked in the studio with bands such as the SCORPIONS, 3 DOORS DOWN, DEF LEPPARD and WITHIN TEMPTATION.

Apart from a standard jewel case, the album will be available in digipack version, with two bonus tracks and also on vinyl.

GOTTHARD's last album, "Firebirth", entered the chart Switzerland at position No. 1 — the 14th time that a GOTTHARD CD has topped the Swiss chart in the group's career so far. In addition, the album landed at No. 9 on the German Media Control chart.

"Firebirth" was released in June 2012 via Nuclear Blast/Warner Music. The CD was produced at the band's own Yellow House Studios in Lugano, Switzerland, with guitarist/songwriter Leo Leoni and Paul Lani (who has previously worked with GOTTHARD on several of their earlier albums, including "G-Spot" and "Homerun") at the helm.

"Firebirth" marked GOTTHARD's first release with singer Nic Maeder, who was born in Lausanne, Switzerland, lived in Melbourne, Australia and grew up between Switzerland and "Down Under."

GOTTHARD's previous vocalist, Steve Lee, was killed on October 5, 2010 in what has been described as a freak road accident in Nevada.

Italian death metallers BLOODTRUTH have inked a deal with Unique Leader Records. The band's full-length debut will be released later this year. Titled "Obedience", the ten-track CD was engineered by Francesco Paoli and Cristiano Trionfera (both of FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE) at Sonic Hammer Studios, and was mixed and mastered by the Italian sound sorcerer Stefano Morabito (HOUR OF PENANCE, EYECONOCLAST, UNFATHOMABLE RUINATION, INHERIT DISEASE) at 16th Cellar Studios. The cover artwork was created by Colin Marks of Rain Song Design (EXODUS, FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE, KATAKLYSM). Initially forged in 2009 as the side project of FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE members Francesco Paoli and Paolo Rossi, and now featuring the updated lineup of vocalist Luigi Valenti, guitarist Stefano Rossi Ciucci, bassist Riccardo Rogari and drummer Giacomo Torti, BLOODTRUTH heaves forth a sonic fire ball of speed, brutality and unadulterated hate. Fusing the cryptic atmosphere of early '90s death metal, evocative Gregorian chant representing the band's homeland and history and methodical technicality, BLOODTRUTH is ceaseless in its ear-lacerating capabilities.

Irish hardcore death metal punks COLDWAR will release their fifth album, "Pantheist", on April 28 via Candlelight Records. The CD will include the song "Heart Of Darkness", which was released for free streaming upon announcement of the band signing to Candlelight.

"Pantheist" track listing:

01. Heart Of Darkness02. Ether Child03. Mazu Awakens04. 13th Moon05. The Falcon Cannot Hear The Falconer06. Ghostdance07. Consciousness Paralysis08. Abandonment Of Being09. Last Days Of The 4th Sun

Formed in 1999 in Dublin, COLDWAR is influenced by underground hardcore punk and extreme metal. To date, the band has toured Ireland and the U.K. and has made several trips to Europe and the USA.

COLDWAR's previous four releases were made available via Underground Movement.

German thrash metal veterans HOLY MOSES will release new studio album, "Redefined Mayhem", in Scandinavia on April 23, in Germany on April 25, in the rest of Europe on April 28 and in the USA on April 29 through SPV/Steamhammer as a CD; double gatefold LP with colored vinyl plus a bonus track; a CD in a cardboard sleeve; and as a digital download. The CD and LP versions will have different covers.

HOLY MOSES no longer have anything to prove to the international metal scene. Their multi-faceted thrash metal, frontwoman Sabina Classen's charismatic voice and their unique mix of traditional attitude and experimental evolvement have been instrumental in establishing the band as a known quantity since the beginning of their career in the early 1980s.

"Redefined Mayhem" is a prime example of an album which expertly blends past and present.

"HOLY MOSES have never released standard thrash songs, and we never will," Sabina Classen explains with some pride. "We write songs which we like ourselves and don't compromise in terms of trends and concessions to wrong expectations. We don't have to please everybody, we're our own brand, we have our own sound, which includes the occasional odd beat, technically demanding passages and unusual chord structures as well as interesting lyrics which deal with the dark side of people and their minds."

That HOLY MOSES mark 2014 don't show any symptoms of fatigue is mainly due to their perfect balance consisting of founder members and musicians who have played in other groups: vocalist Sabina Classen has been the voice and face of HOLY MOSES since 1981, bassist Thomas Neitsch has been in the band for six years, drummer Gerd Lücking joined the fold three years ago, and guitarist Peter Geltat was enlisted in 2012, supporting his colleagues immediately in a number of successful shows such as the Barge To Hell cruise 2012. The current lineup is ready to face new challenges in a permanently evolving metal genre.

"This is HOLY MOSES mark 2014, and 'Redefined Mayhem' defines a new chapter of our band history," explains Sabina Classen, adding: "We had to redefine ourselves as a band and gel as a team. There were people who voiced their doubts that it would work. But the new songs prove beyond all doubt that HOLY MOSES continue to be a force to be reckoned with."

There can be no doubt: "Redefined Mayhem" sees HOLY MOSES 2014 reach a new pinnacle of their creative work. Their fans can look forward to a contemporary thrash metal oeuvre which reflects the band members' influence while skilfully forging an arch to the group's successful past with classics such as "Finished With The Dogs" (1987) and "The New Machine Of Liechtenstein" (1989). Classen says: "It's still first-rate thrash metal, fast-paced and powerful, chaotic at times but with a modern touch and amazingly multi-faceted guitars and drums."

"Redefined Mayhem" track listing:

CD Version

01. Hellhound
02. Triggered
03. Undead Dogs
04. Into The Dark
05. Sacred Sorrows
06. Process Of Projection
07. Fading Realities
08. Liars
09. Redemption Of The Shattered
10. Whet The Knife
11. Delusion
12. One Step Ahead Of Death
13. This Dirt

Vinyl Version

LP 1A

01. Hellhound
02. Undead Dogs
03. Sacred Sorrows

LP 1B

01. Triggered
02. Into the Dark
03. Process of Projection

LP 2A

01. Delusion
02. Fading Realities
03. Liars
04. Entering The Now (bonus track)

LP 2B

11. Whet the Knife
12. Redemption of the Shattered
13. One Step ahead of Death
14. This Dirt

ROYAL MACHINES, the new "all-star covers fun-times band" featuring former CAMP FREDDY members Dave Navarro (JANE'S ADDICTION, RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS), Billy Morrison (ex-THE CULT bassist, current CIRCUS DIABLO vocalist), Donovan Leitch (son of legendary folk singer Donovan), and Chris Chaney (JANE'S ADDICTION, ALANIS MORRISETTE), alongside frequent CAMP FREDDY collaborator, singer Mark McGrath (SUGAR RAY), and acclaimed drummer Josh Freese (THE VANDALS, DEVO, A PERFECT CIRCLE), made its live debut during a January 2014 appearance at Bitesize TV studios. Video footage of the interview and performance can be seen below.

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").

DOWN will release a new EP, "Down IV - Part Two", on May 13 via Down Records/ADA Music. Tracked at Nodferatu's Lair — iconic vocalist Philip H. Anselmo's home studio — and produced by Michael Thompson, Anselmo and DOWN, the new EP is the eagerly anticipated sequel to "Down IV - Part One". The new offering from DOWN is packed with the quintet's signature gargantuan riffs, swamp blues leads, crashing drums and hypnotic howls, upholding a certain tradition that countless fans celebrate, expanding their own musical mythos as they leave its pillars intact and untouched.

In support of the upcoming record, DOWN will take their renowned live show on the road this spring, joining BLACK LABEL SOCIETY and DEVIL YOU KNOW on a North American tour. The tour, which also includes DOWN headlining shows and festival appearances, begins at Iron City in Birmingham, Alabama on May 2, and ends at Rocklahoma in Pryor, Oklahoma on May 25. The run also includes an appearance on May 24 at Emo's in Austin at the "Rock the Heart" concert, a benefit for the late Mike Scaccia's (RIGOR MORTIS, MINISTRY) "Heart Rock" foundation, with the goal of raising awareness about heart disease.

When Anselmo, Pepper Keenan, Jimmy Bower, Pat Bruders, and Bobby Landgraf retreated to Nodferatu's Lair at Anselmo's Lousiana home in the fall of 2013, things had changed a bit. For the first time in the band's storied career, Kirk Windstein wouldn't be handling guitar duties alongside Keenan. Instead, longtime "family" member, stage manager, and HONKY guitarist Landgraf took the reins.

"He was immediately at home," affirms Anselmo. "Bobby had always been that guy in case of anything. Knowing his personality, he really locked in with what we do and took it to heart. He made himself belong. Honestly, the first day he came down he contributed a very strong riff to a key song. There's that Southern element, which is imperative. I also catch a real old heavy metal vibe from this record. I can't stress this enough. He took it all on, and he did a fucking awesome job."

Keenan adds, "Even with the lineup differences, it's interesting how the songs still sound very DOWN. Bobby and I have always locked in. It's not just physically either, but mentally as well. We see eye-to-eye, and he's been watching for a long time."

"It was a big deal for me," beams Landgraf. "I drove ten hours up from Texas that first day, cracked a beer, and plugged in. We jumped right into the room, and I played this part. They all smiled. That was the moment for me. I'm a longtime fan, and I knew we were friends, but being a part of the writing and working towards something together was just incredible. As a guitar player, one of my goals was to be in a group like this. I want to make everyone proud."

The fans will undoubtedly take pride in this collection as well. Making good on DOWN's promise of a series of EPs, the second installment sees a pronounced progression amongst the individuals themselves as well.

"We wanted to back up our word as far as releasing these EPs," Anselmo goes on. "Everybody was fixated on that. This is the shortest period of time between our releases, and every one stepped it up and upped his game. Keenan, Bower, Bruders and Landgraf all contributed some excellent riffs. Having all of this fresh input makes for a different listen and a new perspective on what DOWN should and does sound like. All of that yields a unique record off the bat."

For the future, DOWN's sights are set on endless touring. Landgraf made his formal stage debut when the band headlined Anselmo's first annual Housecore Horror Film Festival in front of a packed audience of the faithful in October 2013. Now, it's just about bringing that inimitable sound everywhere possible.

"Down IV - Part Two" track listing:

01. Steeple
02. We Knew Him Well
03. Hogshead/Dogshead
04. Conjure
05. Sufferer's Years
06. Bacchanalia

Norwegian prog-rock/avantgarde legends GREEN CARNATION will reunite to perform their second concept show, "A Night Under The Dam", deep in the mountains of South Norway on July 31. The concert will include both acoustic and plugged parts and showcase songs from all of the band's five albums.

GREEN CARNATION achieved cult status with prog-rock/avant-garde metal fans all over the world in the early 2000s with its 60-minute masterpiece "Light Of Day, Day Of Darkness", and is renowned for releasing extraordinary records and DVDs throughout its career.

The band's last big show before disbanding was the first "A Night Under The Dam", which was later released on DVD. The band performed its entire album "Acoustic Verses" with guest artists and Kristiansand String Quartet. It is on this exact spot the band will make its comeback eight years later.

"The first 'Under The Dam' was a very special evening for us," says GREEN CARNATION founding member Tchort. "People from USA, Italy, Netherlands, Ireland and a few more countries found their way to deep into the Norwegian mountains. We hope to create something very unique again. It wasn't really an option to redo exactly what we did last time, and we will be working hard to give the audience more than they expect."

Adds GREEN CARNATION singer Kjetil Nordhus: "This is not something that has been in the pipeline at all. I think the different band members really did not expect ever to get together again as GREEN CARNATION again. But when we had a chance to play 'Under The Dam' again, we sat down, discussed the possibilities and it was soon clear that this was something we were all very much up for. We are all in a different stage in life now, and simply cannot wait to work creatively together again."

GREEN CARNATION will be available for festivals and special shows in the foreseeable future.

Florida rockers NONPOINT have entered Groovemaster Studios in Chicago with Grammy-nominated producer Johnny K (DISTURBED, STAIND, MEGADETH) and Daniel Salcidoto to begin work on their eighth studio album for a fall release via Razor & Tie.

Comments NONPOINT vocalist Elias Soriano, "It's great to be back in the studio with Johnny K.

"After the last record turned out so awesome, the way we saw it, why fix what ain't broke?

"Pre-production has gone smoothly and the songs luckily didn't seem to need a lot of work. So we're gonna get some ridiculous tones, play and sing our hearts out. We are going to have as much fun as we can doing it so hopefully that translates to the music."

NONPOINT's latest, self-titled album sold 7,300 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 62 on The Billboard 200 chart. The band's previous CD, "Miracle" (2010), opened with around 8,000 units to land at No. 60.

"Nonpoint" was produced/mixed by Johnny K and featured additional production and mixing from Brian Virtue (30 SECONDS TO MARS, CHEVELLE).

NONPOINT's January 31 concert at Club Revolution in Fort Lauderdale, Florida was filmed for an upcoming DVD.

New Orleans sludge metal veterans CROWBAR will release their new album, "Symmetry In Black", in North America on May 27 via Entertainment One Music. The CD, which will be made available in Europe on May 26 through Century Media Records, was produced by CROWBAR guitarist/vocalist Kirk Windstein and Duane Simoneaux and was mixed by Josh Wilbur (LAMB OF GOD, GOJIRA).

Comments Windstein: "We are so proud and excited about what we have accomplished with this record! The focus, determination and attitude in the band is at an all-time high.

"We are 100% ready to get this juggernaut rolling and never touch the breaks again.

"CROWBAR will not be stopped!"

The release of "Symmetry In Black" will coincide with the 25th anniversary of the CROWBAR's inception. Windstein continues: "CROWBAR is my heart and soul. The music is a part of me that I am extremely proud of.

"It's an amazing feeling to be putting all of my energy and focus into something that I created 25 years ago!

"We are extremely excited to release our 10th full length & to bring the riffs to as many people as possible on tour." Now that CROWBAR has finished recording, they'll head over to the U.K. for a handful of dates with HANG THE BASTARD and DROPBACK. The band is also confirmed for a handful of European festivals this summer, including Roadburn and Bloodstock Open Air.

CROWBAR will make a bone-crushing appearance at Maryland Deathfest in the U.S. Windstein exited DOWN in September 2013 in order to focus "100%" on CROWBAR. He was replaced in DOWN by the band's longtime stage manager and HONKY founding guitarist Bobby Landgraf.

CROWBAR last year announced the addition of bassist Jeff Golden to the group's ranks.

Jeff is from Bolton, Connecticut, but currently resides in Estero, Florida.

CROWBAR is:

Kirk Windstein (Guitar, Vocals)Matt Brunson (Guitar)Tommy Buckley (Drums)Jeff Golden (Bass)

Swiss hard rock veterans KROKUS will release a new live album, "Long Stick Goes Boom - Live From Da House Of Rust", on March 21 in Switzerland, and March 24 in the rest of Europe. The CD will be made available in North America on April 22.

Says KROKUS: "For those of you that could not make it to one of the shows last year, here is the next best thing: new KROKUS live CD. U.S./Canadian residents can look forward to a bundle pre-order that also includes a one-of-a-kind t-shirt and a sticker."

"Long Stick Goes Boom - Live From Da House Of Rust" track listing:

01. Long Stick Goes Boom 02. Hallelujah Rock'n'Roll03. Go Baby Go04. American Woman05. Tokyo Nights 06. Fire 07. Medley: Rock City / Better Than Sex / Dög Song08. Screaming In The Night09. Hellraiser10. Bedside Radio11. Easy Rocker12. Heatstrokes13. Live For The Action14. Hoodoo Woman

"Dirty Dynamite", the 17th studio album from KROKUS, entered the German Media Control chart at position No. 17. This marked the first time in KROKUS' history that the band landed in the Top 20 of the German chart.

"Dirty Dynamite" was released on February 22, 2013 in Europe via Sony Music and in North America on March 5, 2013 via The End Records. The CD marked the return of KROKUS guitarist Mandy Meyer after 30 years. Sound engineer for the recording sessions was again Dennis Ward, who also recorded the band's previous album, "Hoodoo".

Drummer Freddy Steady left KROKUS in May 2011 because he "concluded that he really wanted to play music just for fun in small clubs rather than conquering the world, playing arenas on huge stages with pyro props, etc.," according to guitarist Fernando Von Arb.

KROKUS has since recruited Flavio Mezzodi as the band's new drummer.

Universal Music has announced the deluxe release of DEEP PURPLE's seminal live album "Made In Japan" in multiple formats on May 19.

Together with LED ZEPPELIN and BLACK SABBATH, DEEP PURPLE has been referred to as the "unholy trinity of British hard rock and heavy metal" in the early to mid-Seventies. One of the most influential and important guitar bands in history, they have sold over 100 million albums worldwide.

"Made In Japan" was recorded live over three nights during August 15–17, 1972 at Festival Hall, Osaka and Budokan, Tokyo. Four of the tracks come from the band's 1972 "Machine Head" album. It featured what many consider the classic DEEP PURPLE lineup — Ian Gillan (vocals), Ritchie Blackmore (guitar), Roger Glover (bass), Jon Lord (organ) and Ian Paice (drums). Originally recorded only for the Japanese market, the album has since become seen as one of DEEP PURPLE's seminal albums, and one of the greatest live albums of all time (A Rolling Stone magazine readers poll in 2012 voted "Made In Japan" as the sixth greatest live album of all time).

May 19, 2014 will see the album newly remastered and released in a number of special formats. The format options include previously unseen footage on DVD, bonus material and mixes, memorabilia and a hardback book.

The "Made In Japan" formats:

* Limited Edition Super Deluxe 4 CD+DVD+7" Boxed Set and Limited-Edition Super Deluxe 9LP Boxed Set* Deluxe Edition 2CD* 180g 2LP* Blu-ray Pure Audio* HD Download* MFiT* Standard Digital format

METALLICA drummer Lars Ulrich last year told writer Peter Makowski that he is working on getting his all-time favorite band, DEEP PURPLE, a long-overdue spot in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. Asked why the creators of "Smoke On The Water" were not in there yet, Ulrich said, "What you've got to understand is that a lot of the people that have run the selection process are critics, and DEEP PURPLE, as you know, were never a critic's band — especially in America, because their influence was probably felt more in Europe." But Ulrich added, "It's only a matter of time. Rather sooner than later. We've already lost one member. The fact that LED ZEPPELIN and BLACK SABBATH are in and PURPLE is not is one of the crimes of that whole institution. We'll get them in soon enough. I'm working on it."

Founding PURPLE keyboardist Jon Lord passed away in July 2012. Ulrich, who wrote a tribute to Lord on METALLICA's web site, told Makowski, "I'm not sure that the people in today's hard rock world really truly understand how innovative this guy was . . . he really did something nobody had done before with the sound of the keyboards and I think that's probably the biggest thing to remember him for."

At their own induction in 2009, METALLICA's James Hetfield included PURPLE on a list of acts they wanted to see in the Hall. "We're somewhat of a heavy band and we have a small list that we'd like to also put some nods out and maybe plant a little seed, it's a band called DEEP PURPLE, THIN LIZZY, RUSH, KISS, TED NUGENT, IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST, MOTÖRHEAD... who we would love to invite through the door now."

DEEP PURPLE was denied entry to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2013 — losing out to such artists as American pop singer-songwriter Randy Newman and R&B singer Donna Summer.

The members of PURPLE, who released a new album titled "Now What?!" on April 30, 2013 in North America via earMUSIC, say it is no big loss.

"I fought against, all my life, becoming institutionalized. So it really does not affect me," singer Ian Gillan told Noisecreep. "But on the other hand, my family and friends and everyone that has stuck with us all these years, it means something to them. They love that recognition.

"To analyze it, and I'll try not to sound cocky or anything, I will say it as respectfully as I can, it's sort of like the Oscars and Grammys and the other awards like that — in the States, just like it is in England, and other places — these awards and honors are usually not decided by the fans, but by a cartel of influential people. These are the same people that decided THE MONKEES were America's answer to THE BEATLES. [laughs]

"So I'm not too concerned about it. Maybe it will happen one day, bit if not, my diary is full and I'm very happy. It hasn't affected our career but it does concern the fans — that's who I feel for."

Asheville, North Carolina's "American Idol" star Caleb Johnson, who was the last of 13 contestants to perform on Wednesday night's (February 26) episode of the Fox TV talent show, delivered his own rendition of Californian blues-rockers RIVAL SONS' "Pressure & Time", the title track of the band's 2011 album. Check out video footage of his appearance below.

"I'm ready to go out here and rock 'n' roll," Johnson told "Idol" host Ryan Seacrest just before the performance.

"You are so ready for the rock-star life," judge Jennifer Lopez said afterwards. "You have the goods to back it up."

Fellow judge Keith Urban agreed. "That was a great song," he said. "You've got to figure out how to put a twist on that."

Johnson, 22, is making his third appearance on "American Idol", after unsuccessful bids in 2011 and 2012.

RIVAL SONS are in the studio working on their fourth full-length album, the follow-up to 2012's "Head Down". The band entered LCS Studios at the beginning of January and will spend a full six weeks recording. The CD is once again being produced by Dave Cobb, who has worked on all previous RIVAL SONS releases.

A "back bag containing irreplaceable items" was allegedly stolen from the dressing room of Finnish love metallers HIM when they performed a headlining concert last night (Wednesday, February 26) at 170 Russell (formerly Billboard) in Melbourne, Australia.

After the show, the quintet posted a message on Facebook alerting fans of the alleged theft along with an image of the suspected thief taken from surveillance camera footage.

"Anyone in Melbourne Australia know this guy?" the band wrote. "Please help up as and the police to catch this guy!"

HIM is currently touring Australia as part of this year's Soundwave festival.

The band's latest album, "Tears On Tape", sold 20,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 15 on The Billboard 200 chart.

HIM's previous CD, 2010's "Screamworks: Love In Theory And Practice", opened with 26,000 units to land at No. 25.

The group's 2007 effort, "Venus Doom", registered a first-week tally of 38,000 to enter the chart at No. 12.

"Tears On Tape" was released on April 30, 2013 via Razor & Tie in North America and on April 29, 2013 through DoubleCross (Cooking Vinyl's specialist rock imprint) in the U.K. and Ireland. The "love metal" act's eighth official album was recorded at Helsinki's Finnvox Studios with longtime producer Hiili Hiilesmaa (APOCALYPTICA, AMORPHIS, MOONSPELL) and was mixed in London, England by Tim Palmer, who previously helmed 2005's "Dark Light" and 2007's "Venus Doom".

HIM's current lineup is Ville Valo (vocals), Mikko "Linde" Lindström (guitar), Mikko "Migé" Paananen (bass), Janne "Burton" Puurtinen (keyboards), and Mika "Gas" Karppinen (drums).

Slapout, Alabama's "American Idol" star Jessica Meuse, who was one of 13 contestants to perform on Wednesday night's (February 26) episode of the Fox TV talent show, delivered her rendition of SHINEDOWN's "The Crow & The Butterfly" a song from the band's 2008 album "The Sound Of Madness". Check out video footage of her appearance below.

According to AL.com, mentor Randy Jackson counseled Meuse, 23, during rehearsals to dig deeply into the emotions. "She has to find a way to commit to the feeling in the song and communicate that to the audience and judges," Jackson said.

Judge Keith Urban said, "That was a bold but cool song choice," and praised the "dark, haunting quality" of Meuse's delivery, adding that her voice has an "an edge and a rasp that's really appealing."

"I thought it was strong, man," fellow judge Harry Connick said. "I heard a different sound in your voice. That was really nice."

"The Crow & The Butterfly" was the fifth single from "The Sound Of Madness".

SHINEDOWN singer Brent Smith explained in a radio interview that while the band was writing the CD, he had a dream about a mother whose son passes away. He wrote the song about the mother dealing with the death of her child and trying to move on.

On the SHINEDOWN blog, Smith said this about the song: "For me, lyrically, this was one of the most intense stories I have ever written. But I know the song means something different to everyone."

An EPK (Electronic Press Kit) for ASIA's new album, "Gravitas", can be seen below. Produced and written by band members John Wetton and Geoff Downes, the CD is deeply introspective within a clearly accessible sound. The album also introduces the world to ASIA's new guitarist, Sam Coulson, who came at the recommendation of MR. BIG's Paul Gilbert.

Scheduled for release on Frontiers Records on March 21 (Europe); and March 25 (North America), the album will be available in two configurations: a standard CD and a Deluxe Edition, that will include two bonus tracks and a DVD containing the "Valkyrie" music video, a promotional film, and footage of classic live ASIA tracks such as "Heat Of The Moment", recorded with the Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra in Bulgaria.

From the title track, "Gravitas", which chronicles a man's struggle in the battlefield of life, to the powerfully compelling tale of unrequited love, "The Closer I Get To You", the album is a tour de force for the band whose music has become a staple to rock fans.

"Pure, unadulterated and stereotypical ASIA, with raw energy, enthusiasm and free from impurities," says John Wetton. "It conveys the spectrum of emotion and color from real-life agonies to ecstatic fantasy of escapism. Great songs, fabulous performance. 'Gravitas' is ASIA by ASIA. At last."

"With the addition of Sam, it allowed us to take the band in a slightly different, and perhaps tougher, direction," says Carl Palmer. "As a band, we have been able to grow, while at the same time, remain true to the classic ASIA sound that our fans know and love."

ASIA's debut album exploded onto the music scene in April 1982, and was the best-selling album in the world of that year. Featuring Geoff Downes on keyboards; Steve Howe on guitar; Carl Palmer on drums; and John Wetton on lead vocals and bass; ASIA was the logical successor to their collective bands of the '70s — YES, ELP, KING CRIMSON, UK and THE BUGGLES. The original ASIA reformed in 2006 for the first time in 23 years.

"It always was a great live band, but this time the dragon has awakened with fresh energy, direction and purpose," says Wetton.

"As with any new ASIA album, putting it all together presents something of a challenge," says Geoff Downes. "Everyone involved rose way above and beyond this challenge. There is a renewed energy when we step on stage now; we can feel it and I know the fans can feel it."

For ASIA's long-devoted fans, the band's return to the concert stage cannot come soon enough. As Palmer says: "Performing on stage is where this band truly comes into its element. Seeing the fans reacting to our music is what makes it all worthwhile. It is the fuel that drives this train we call ASIA."

"Gravitas" track listing: 01. Valkyrie02. Gravitas03. The Closer I Get To You04. Nyctophobia05. Russian Dolls06. Heaven Help Me Now07. I Would Die For You08. Joe Di Maggio's Glove09. Till We Meet Again10. The Closer I Get To You (acoustic)*11. Joe Di Maggio's Glove (acoustic)*

DVD (*):

* "Valkyrie" (videoclip)* EPK* "Heat Of The Moment" (Live in Plovdiv with Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra)* [to be announced] (live in Plovdiv with Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra)* [to be announced] (live in Plovdiv with Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra)

* Available only on the Deluxe Edition

The "Valkyrie" video can be seen below. According to USA Today, ASIA bassist John Wetton drew his inspiration for the song from the Norse deities who accompany the souls of heroic warriors to Valhalla.

"I've got a bit of a fetish about the sacred feminine," Wetton said. "A lot of my songs are about deities, and not necessarily male ones. In the whole myth of valkyrie, she is more powerful than many of the male gods."

The "Valkyrie" video was shot primarily in Los Angeles and London, with Wetton shooting his portion on a beach near Topanga, California.

ASIA is:

John Wetton - Lead Vocals, BassCarl Palmer - DrumsGeoff Downes - KeyboardsSam Coulson - Guitar

Part one of a video recap of KAMELOT's South American tour, which took place earlier in the month, can be seen below.

Keyboardist Oliver Palotai sat out KAMELOT's most recent North American tour so he could stay home with longtime girlfriend Simone Simons, (EPICA singer) as they awaited the birth of their first child. Filling in for him was Coen Janssen of EPICA.

KAMELOT's latest album, "Silverthorn", sold 5,400 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 79 on The Billboard 200 chart. The band's previous CD, "Poetry For The Poisoned", opened with around 6,100 units in September 2010 to enter the chart at No. 74.

"Silverthorn" was released on October 30, 2012 in North America, October 26, 2012 in Germany and October 29, 2012 in the rest of Europe via Steamhammer/SPV. The CD marks the band's first release with Tommy Karevik, the Swedish vocalist who previously fronted SEVENTH WONDER (a group that he is still a member of).

In a 2012 interview with Loudwire, KAMELOT guitarist Thomas Youngblood stated about what Karevik brings to the band: "I think when we knew we had to bring in a new person on vocals, we wanted the opportunity to grow the band, not just to maintain the band or survive. We wanted to look at this as an opportunity to make the band bigger, [and] I think with Tommy we can do that. Not only is he an exceptional singer, he's a great songwriter and he's way ahead of what I thought he would be in terms of being a frontman. People who come out to shows will see that this guy is a force to be reckoned with. I can't imagine a better choice, honestly. In the beginning, when this whole thing started, we were a little unsure of what the future might be, but now we're really excited about it."

The first episode of "Metalhead To Head", a web-only show where metal masters sit down together for surprisingly candid conversation and plenty of one-time-only music demonstrations and collaborations, can be seen at Fuse.tv. The episode features Dave Mustaine and Ricky Warwick (BLACK STAR RIDERS, THIN LIZZY). New episodes will debut every other Wednesday. Always at 1 p.m. ET. And always on Fuse.tv.

Asked by Warwick about his lead-guitar technique, Mustaine said: "When I was in METALLICA, when I would write solos back then, I wrote them out. And then when I left, I totally re-evaluated my guitar playing and went from playing guitar because I loved it to playing guitar because I was pissed."

He continued: "Playing, for me, doing solos and stuff like that, there's a lot of technique stuff that people do, they do sweeping and stuff like that and they do a lot of stuff that's real pretty-looking, but you know what?! After a while, someone sweeping through a whole solo, it's, like, enough already. I believe that David Gilmour can do more with one note than half of these kids that are out there now that can just do these mind-blowing solos."

Artist pairings for future "Metalhead To Head" episodes include:

* Mike Portnoy (DREAM THEATER, THE WINERY DOGS) & Arejay Hale (HALESTORM)* Dave Ellefson (MEGADETH) & Doug Pinnick (KING'S X)* Gus G. (FIREWIND, OZZY OSBOURNE) & Mark Heylmun (SUICIDE SILENCE)* Rudy Sarzo (QUIET RIOT, OZZY OSBOURNE) & Frank Bello (ANTHRAX)* Charlie Benante (ANTHRAX) & Ray Luzier (KORN) * Billy Sheehan (THE WINERY DOGS) & Marco Mendoza (BLACK STAR RIDERS, THIN LIZZY)* Eric Choi (WE CAME AS ROMANS) & Alex Lopez (SUICIDE SILENCE)* Michael Sweet (STRYPER) & Alex Skolnick (TESTAMENT)* George Lynch (DOKKEN, LYNCH MOB) & Chris Broderick (MEGADETH)* Marty Friedman (MEGADETH) & Ben Weinman (THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN)