German epic metal band Aeon Gods has signed a multi-album deal with Scarlet Records.


Risen from the ashes – there really isn't a better way to start the story of the Aeon Gods. After the long-standing symphonic metal band Aeternitas dissolved, their masterminds Anja and Alex Hunzinger immediately conjured up a new concept and found a different musical home built around a cinematic epic sound flavoured by elements of power and symphonic metal. Aeternitas are dead, long live Aeon Gods.


Lyrically and aesthetically-wise, Anja and Alex delved passionately into the realm of ancient mythologies, bringing the legends of its gods into the modern world through an unique and intriguing storytelling complexity.




“For countless aeons, the ancient gods ruled the world and all living beings. But, in the course of time, the glory of the gods began to fade in the twilight of history and their powers disappeared almost beyond recognition. The strongest amongst the gods assembled all their last remaining forces and created a new generation of glorious messengers to recover the hearts of men and regain their former powers. And so, the messengers spread the ancient tales in the modern world about the Aeon Gods.”


In May 2023, the band released the first single “The Beginning” (produced by Alex Hunzinger and mixed and mastered at Greenman Studios by Sebastian ʹSeebʹ Levermann), quickly followed by “Ereshkigal”. In early 2024 Aeon Gods completed the recordings of their debut album, now expected to be released in the fall by Scarlet Records.


“We are honored to proclaim that we have forged a mighty alliance with Scarlet Records, who will aid us in spreading the ancient tales of the Aeon Gods. May the gods grace this partnership with resplendent triumph and eternal glory!” – Aeon Gods








Aeon Gods:
Alex ʹSol'Ra-tuʹ Hunzinger - voice of the Gods (vocals)
Anja ʹSu'en-Chelʹ Hunzinger - harmony of the Gods (keyboards)
Nino ʹEn-Atumʹ Helfrich - steel of the Gods (guitar)
Robert ʹAbzu'Keanʹ Helfrich - power of the Gods (guitar)
Elias ʹIš'Taruʹ Knorr - thunder of the Gods (drums)

Respected vocalist and guitarist, Mike Tramp, returns with Songs Of White Lion - Vol. II, out August 23 via Frontiers Music Srl. The album's ten tracks once again see Tramp re-imagining select cuts from his former band, White Lion.


To herald the album's announcement, Tramp shares its first single, "Lights & Thunder," accompanied by a new music video. Watch the clip below.


Mike Tramp comments on the new release: "Would Leonardo Da Vinci have re-painted Mona Lisa, if he had gotten a second chance? That we will never know, but I can say for sure, that I am beyond thrilled to have gotten a second chance to re-record and sing the songs I wrote between 1983 -1990. Today I have such a better understanding of how I want to express the songs in my voice than I had when I was in my 20’s, it’s just a fact, and I’ve grabbed the chance. 'Songs Of White Lion' is a whole new chapter, matter of fact it is current."




Tramp will embark on an extended tour supporting Songs Of White Lion - Vol.II starting in the mid-August. A current list of dates can be found here.


Mike Tramp came to prominence in the music world with White Lion, who formed in 1983. After signing to Atlantic Records, the band enjoyed great success with their second album Pride in 1987, which included the hits "Wait" and "When The Children Cry". The band's third album, Big Game (1991), and fourth album, Mane Attraction (1992) continued the band's winning streak, but ultimately White Lion disbanded in 1992.


After White Lion, Tramp formed the hard rock band Freak Of Nature, who had a decidedly darker and harder vibe than White Lion. Freak Of Nature would release three studio albums before disbanding in 1996. In 1998, Tramp kicked off his solo career with the album, Capricorn; in 2002, his second solo album Recovering The Wasted Years was released. Tramp would then take a break from his solo career from 2004-2008 to tour and record under the name Mike Tramp's White Lion and eventually under the name White Lion, releasing the album Return Of The Pride in 2008.


Since 2009, Tramp has been writing and recording as a solo artist releasing nine studio albums, including his most recent, 2022's For Første Gang. He has also been a consistent presence on the road, both as an acoustic solo artist and with a backing band, with no plans of slowing down anytime soon.


Pre-order Songs Of White Lion - Vol. 2 here.





Tracklisting:


"Lights & Thunder"
"Lonely Nights"
"Till Death Do Us Part"
"El Salvador"
"The Road To Valhalla"
"Don't Give Up"
"You're AII I Need"
"Out With The Boys"
"All You Need Is Rock'n’Roll"
"Farewell To You"


"Lights & Thunder" video:





(Photo - Jakob Muxoll)

In a new interview with Nikki Blakk of the San Francisco Bay Area radio station 107.7 The Bone, guitarist Phil Demmel discussed his decision to leave VIO-LENCE, the band that he formed nearly four decades ago. He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "The VIO-LENCE thing just became… [Drummer] Perry [Strickland] left, or Perry's no longer in the band, and it just became — and I love Christian [Olde Wolbers, former FEAR FACTORY and current VIO-LENCE bassist] — it just became something not familiar anymore. And it hit me when we played the Whisky [A Go Go in February 2023 in West Hollywood, California] and it was Adrian [Aguilar], the drummer's first show. And we were having this kid Miles Dimitri Baker, who plays in ICE NINE KILLS right now, come down, and he was gonna be my fill-in [for some dates]. And so he was gonna play on a song or two. And I show up to the show and I walk backstage and, man, there was 50 people backstage and I knew maybe [the guys in] the band and a couple of other people. It was just, like, 'Man, this isn't my home anymore. This doesn't feel like home.' And no slight against the dudes, 'cause I loved playing with Adrian, I loved playing with Christian, and Ira [Black, now-former VIO-LENCE guitarist] really worked hard for the band and was a big — he was a big fighter for the band. He worked hard. He cared a lot. Ira was a very productive member of VIO-LENCE. But with everything that was happening, it was just time for me to go… The Kerry [King] thing was firing up, the CATEGORY 7 thing was firing up, and [I] just [did] not [want to] let that be a distraction from [the other stuff I was doing]."

Demmel added: "I loved the [2022] VIO-LENCE EP ['Let The World Burn'] that I wrote, and me and Sean [Killian, VIO-LENCE singer] wrote and we recorded with the dudes. And I'm super proud of those songs and the way that the recording came out. [Producer/engineer] Juan [Urteaga] did a tremendous job."

Circling back to the high turnover of members in VIO-LENCE, Demmel said: "[Former OVERKILL guitarist] Bobby [Gustafson was in the band for a couple of years] and Miles and this kid Jesse's playing now. Ira, Adrian, [drummer] Nick Souza has played, [former CANNIBAL CORPSE and current EXHORDER guitarist] Pat O'Brien's been in. And this is all within the past couple years. So it just wasn't the thing that I started in high school, and the songs meaning the same."

Phil added that "it was cool traveling and doing the stuff that we did. And Sean wants to continue and travel and do the fun stuff. I'm still a partner with him in the business."

As for the possibility of VIO-LENCE making new music without Demmel being an official member of the band, Phil said: "That's all something that remains to be [seen]."

Demmel's final concert with VIO-LENCE took place on February 11 at Carioca Club in São Paulo, Brazil. The gig also marked the last show of VIO-LENCE's Latin American tour with EXHORDER.

When Demmel announced his exit from VIO-LENCE a few days before the São Paulo concert, he said in a video message he shared to his social media: "It's been, I guess, in the works for a bit. My status has been undefined for a while. I'm kind of doing things that I felt comfortable or fell into my schedule or whatever. But given just the latest state of the band and where I feel I belong with it or feel tied to it, I just think that my time is at an end."

Demmel continued: "I'll always identify with the band. Me and [drummer] Perry started this band in high school. It's cool to be going to places that we haven't been.

"I'm feeling that Sean is… We've gone far on different pages. I guess we've always been on different pages. But I don't feel like I fit in with what the objective of this is anymore. And in light of some current events [laughs], I felt compelled to make the break."

Phil went on to say that he "thought about maybe doing a home show" with VIO-LENCE as a way of "saying goodbye," but ultimately concluded that "I don't feel like I need that. I feel like playing those [comeback shows in Oakland in April 2019] with Perry and Deen [Dell, bass] and Ray [Vegas, guitar] and having those two magical days and doing some other stuff that we've done, writing the five songs, doing the EP, I feel fulfilled," he said. "And anything further kind of feels forced. Actually, before this [Latin American] tour [kicked off], I honestly didn't wanna come. [But] I was committed to it. I wasn't gonna back out. I'm committed to the dudes. But I think I'm done. I think that I've done what I wanted to do with this band."

Demmel added: "June 1st, 1985 to February, what will be 11th, 2024. 39, almost 40 years. So, never say never again. Try not to say that. Sometimes you do. It's been life defining, it's been a pleasure, it's been an honor being Phil from VIO-LENCE."

VIO-LENCE played the São Paulo concert as a four-piece after an alleged altercation between Black and Olde Wolbers resulted in Ira being sent home from the tour a few days early.

VIO-LENCE's current touring lineup features only Killian from the lineup that played its first comeback gig in April 2019 at the Oakland Metro in Oakland, California.

In February 2023, Demmel addressed VIO-LENCE's future in an Instagram Live video, saying it was "kind of weird playing these shows" with "a bunch of fill-ins and me and Sean." He added that while Adrian is "awesome" and the Whisky gig "was packed", he is "just kind of really torn right now in the sense of what VIO-LENCE is and what it's gonna be and what my role is gonna be in that and how I feel about that." Demmel went on to say that he told Killian he "wanted to shut [VIO-LENCE] down," but then he realized "that to ask that of those dudes to not do it anymore is selfish on my part."

Released in March 2022, "Let The World Burn" was VIO-LENCE's first original release since 1993's "Nothing To Gain".

Formed in 1985, VIO-LENCE helped define and refine what came to be known as the Bay Area sound, dropping three seminal albums before splitting in 1993. Leaving behind a heady legacy, they reformed briefly a couple of times in the intervening years before becoming a full-time going concern once more in 2019. After playing a string of successful shows, the quintet started to think about new music and delivered "Let The World Burn", showcasing their first new material in 29 years.

VIO-LENCE's recording lineup on "Let The World Burn" consisted of Demmel, Killian and Strickland along with Olde Wolbers and Gustafson.

VIO-LENCE reunited soon after Demmel left MACHINE HEAD in late 2018.

Demmel was in MACHINE HEAD for nearly 16 years, during which time he played on five of the group's studio albums: "Through The Ashes Of Empires" (2003),"The Blackening" (2007),"Unto The Locust" (2011),"Bloodstone & Diamonds" (2014) and "Catharsis" (2018).

Although MACHINE HEAD frontman Robb Flynn was part of VIO-LENCE's classic incarnation and played on "Eternal Nightmare", he wasn't approached about taking part in the band's reunion.

Photo credit: Jim Louvau

Italian tech-death ensemble Hour Of Penance premieres lyric video for the closing track off the band's new album Devotion, released in April on Agonia Records. The title of the song is "Spiralling Into Decline".





"The next song we picked for this video is ‘Spiralling Into Decline’, because of both the brutality of the song and the themes of the lyrics seemed appropriate for this moment in history when war and violence are bringing us closer to a world conflict," comments Hour Of Penance. "This song describes the callousness of world leaders and how they willfully lead people into a spiral of destruction just to set their plans in motion. And because of their scientifically planned lies and disinformation, we willfully throw ourselves into this spiral, too."




The new album Devotion features long-standing members Giulio Moschini (guitars), Paolo Pieri (vocals & guitars) and Marco Mastrobuono (bass), alongside new drummer, Giacomo Torti. Recordings took place at Bloom Studio and Kick Studio in Italy, with mixing and mastering handled by Hertz Studio (Vader, Decapitated, Behemoth) in Poland. New band photos were shot by Massimiliano Rocchi.





On Devotion, the band reflects: "This album is our anthem to the futility of war, with no light at the end of the tunnel. The main theme of the album is the misguided devotion which we, the people, give to our leaders, who mercilessly send us to our deaths under the pretense of democracy; while being guided only by imperialist ambitions and greed. The faceless crowd of the artwork stands in worship of these deformed statues of false deities. Musically, the album builds on the 20-year-old, fast-paced trademark style of Hour Of Penance, and enhances it with more technicality and catchiness, interspersed with epic landscapes."


Upcoming shows:


October
30 – Barcelona, Spain – Sala Upload
31 – Zaragoza, Spain – Sala Utopia


November
1 – Portugalete, Spain – Estudios Groove
2 – Oviedo, Spain – Sala Gong Galaxy
3 – Madrid, Spain – Sala Silikona


December
13 – Eindhoven, Netherlands – Eindhoven Metal Meeting


Lineup:
Giulio Moschini - guitars
Paolo Pieri - guitars and vocals
Marco Mastrobuono - bass
Giacomo Torti – drums


(Photo – Massimiliano Rocchi)

MOGGS MOTEL, the new band featuring UFO singer Phil Mogg, has signed with SPV/Steamhammer.

MOGGS MOTEL's self-titled album is scheduled for a September 2024 release.

UFO fans, watch out! Anyone who'd feared over the past two years that Mogg, one of the most influential rock vocalists worldwide, would disappear completely from the scene after the demise of his band, in addition to his health problems, has now thankfully been proved wrong.

After a brief hiatus to catch his creative breath, the 76-year-old British musician with the distinctive voice is ready to present his latest band and release, "Moggs Motel", which he composed together with Tony Newton (bass and keyboards) from the band VOODOO SIX, who had been touring partners with UFO previously, and long-standing associate Neil Carter (guitar, keyboards, vocals). The album was recorded at IRON MAIDEN bassist Steve Harris's studio in Essex, U.K. In the studio, the band was joined by Joe Lazarus (drums) and Tommy Gentry (guitar) to complete the lineup.

The album's twelve timeless songs show that Mogg has lost none of his artistic charisma, uniquely expressive voice and love of unbridled creativity.

"Moggs Motel" will be available on Steamhammer/SPV from September 6 worldwide ex North America on CD, vinyl LP and for digital download. Two singles, including video clips, will be released as appetizers ahead of the album's arrival at the physical and digital stores: the album opener "Apple Pie" will be out on June 28, 2024, followed by "Sunny Side Of Heaven" on August 16.

MOGGS MOTEL lineup:

Phil Mogg - vocals
Tony Newton - bass, keyboards
Neil Carter - guitar, keyboards, vocals
Joe Lazarus - drums
Tommy Gentry - guitar

In a recent interview with Ultimate Classic Rock to promote the 2024 remastered reissue of UFO's 1977 album "Lights Out", Mogg was asked if there was still "more to do" with the band. He responded: "No, no. I think it's come to a conclusion. We did that last U.K. tour in 2019, just before COVID. So that was kind of the end of it, and the time was right."

Mogg suffered a heart attack in August 2022. The musician was rushed to the hospital where he had two stents implanted into his coronary arteries. This is known medically as a coronary angioplasty and aims to re-open the blocked coronary artery by inserting one or more stents. This helps keep the narrowed artery open.

UFO's farewell tour was scheduled to kick off on October 15, 2022 at the De Casino in Sint-Niklaas, Belgium and run through a final show at the Fuzz Club in Athens, Greece on October 29, 2022.

In 2021, UFO announced that it would embark on its final tour featuring a series of exclusive concerts in summer 2022 to bid farewell to its fans in style. UFO was scheduled to play the very last concert of in Athens, where the band performed its first show featuring current guitarist Vinnie Moore in February 2004.

UFO guitarist/keyboard player Paul Raymond died in April 2019. He appeared on more than a dozen of UFO's albums, including "Lights Out" and the live classic "Strangers In The Night".

UFO's most recent lineup included original members Mogg and drummer Andy Parker, as well as Moore, who joined in 2003, and Rob De Luca (bass),a member since 2012.

UFO's latest release was the 2017 covers collection "The Salentino Cuts".

Photo by Charlie Smith

Wētā Workshop has announced the preorder of The Demon Destroyer Era statue. Delivery is expected the first quarter of 2025. The statue is limited to 760 figures and stands over 2 feet tall.


Preorder at wetanz.com.


A description reads:




“The intricately crafted costume, a symphony of leather and studs, exudes the rebellious spirit of rock. Energy pulses through his veins, fire in his lungs, as he manifests an aura of excess, immortalizing his larger-than-life presence for all to revel in.


“This statue is a portal to an era where the music was loud, the stage was electrifying, and KISS reigned supreme. The complexity of craftsmanship and devotion to authenticity bring you face-to-face with the living legend, making this a must-have for fans who crave the visceral thrill of rock music’s golden age.


“Get ready to bring the iconic KISS experience into your space and let The Demon transport you to a time when every note struck a chord of rebellion, and every performance was a masterpiece of rock 'n' roll flare.”


Features:
-1:4 scale
-Limited Edition of 760
-Sculpted by the combined efforts of Mike Asquith, Jorgelina Yeme, and Bawal Saggi
-Includes light up base and flame effects (powered by USB-C, cable included)-
-Demonic skull residing within the molten rock
-Immaculately detailed costume as seen in the Destroyer era
-Designed to be displayed with the rest of the band
-Includes exclusive A3 Art Print by comic artist Jim Balent

Hit the highway, crank up that rock radio playlist, and rediscover the timeless rock classics that are the soundtrack for a generation. From iconic riffs to epic songs, Super7 is paying tribute to the legends of classic rock starting with a brand new Jimi Hendrix ReAction Figure. Get ready to air guitar!


Jimi Hendrix had an electrifying career highlighted by ground-breaking live performances. The latest 3.75” scale, articulated Jimi Hendrix Festival ReAction Figure is inspired by the legendary guitarists’ iconic festival looks and features him in a blue-and-white fringed tunic and bell bottom blue jeans, and comes with an electric guitar accessory. Adding this Jimi Hendrix ReAction Figure to your collection of rock and roll legends is as easy a decision as you’ll ever have to make.


Shop here.

Former MEGADETH and current KINGS OF THRASH bandmates David Ellefson (bass) and Jeff Young (guitar) recently got in the kitchen with "Metal Mastication" host Brett Hoag to prepare a very Minnesotan specialty: the Tater Tot Hot Dish.

David and Jeff discuss their early years, how they got into metal, the gear they use and even how the title of MEGADETH's classic third album, "So Far, So Good... So What!", came about.

Watch the full episode below.

KINGS OF THRASH recently announced the "Anarchy In The UK" tour with special guests ANDRY and HELLGRIMM. The trek will kick off October 24, 2024 and run through November 2, 2024.

KINGS OF THRASH, which also includes drummer Fred Aching as well as guitarist/vocalist Chaz Leon, will make its live debut in the United Kingdom, paying homage to the birthplace of heavy metal. This tour holds special significance as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of the groundbreaking MEGADETH album "Youthanasia", certified platinum in the USA and gold in the U.K., a milestone in Ellefson's illustrious career.

In addition to commemorating the "Youthanasia" anniversary, the tour will also showcase select cuts from MEGADETH's classic albums "Killing Is My Business... And Business Is Good", "So Far...So Good... So What!" and "Peace Sells... But Who's Buying?" , promising an unforgettable experience for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

For ticket information and tour updates, visit KingsOfThrash.com.

KINGS OF THRASH recently completed a couple of tours during which it performed "Killing Is My Business… And Business Is Good!" and "So Far, So Good… So What!" A live CD/DVD package called "Best Of The West…Live At The Whisky A Go Go" was recorded and filmed live at the legendary Whisky A Go Go in West Hollywood, California on October 15, 2022 and was released in March 2023 via Cleopatra Records. The DVD, which was directed by Michael Sarna for Inmotion Entertainment, includes an appearance by another ex-MEGADETH member, guitarist Chris Poland.

Ellefson was fired from MEGADETH more than three years ago after sexually tinged messages and explicit video footage involving the bassist were posted on Twitter.

David was in MEGADETH from the band's inception in 1983 to 2002, and again from 2010 until his latest exit.

In 2004, Ellefson filed an $18.5-million lawsuit against Dave Mustaine, alleging the MEGADETH leader shortchanged him on profits and backed out of a deal to turn Megadeth Inc. over to him when the band broke up in 2002. The lawsuit was eventually dismissed and Ellefson rejoined MEGADETH in 2010.

Young's entire career with MEGADETH was spent recording and touring in support of the band's 1988 platinum-selling album "So Far, So Good...So What!"

Jeff made headlines in December 2009 for accusing Mustaine of, among other things, "dissing, exaggerating and just plain lying on some level about nearly every talented musician that has passed through his dysfunctional little ensemble." He also disputed Mustaine's claim in an interview that Young's drug problem led to MEGADETH's 1988 Australian tour being called off and the group being "banned" from performing in the country.

Hailing from the heart of Greece, Death League is the newest force in Melodic Death Metal, featuring: Astrous on vocals (Aenaon, Katavasia), Jim Gaianos on guitars (Disharmony, Ephemeral), Vassilis Liakos on bass (Black Fate, Braveride, Innosense) and Nikos Tsintzilonis on drums (Black Fate, Thirty Fates). This relentless lineup promises a cataclysmic debut with Inferno, an album born in the depths of G Sound Studio and ignited by the masterful production of Nikos Tsintzilonis.


Inferno is set for release on August 16 via Theogonia Records on 6-panel digipack CD and digital formats. The electrifying lyric video for “Closer To The End” is now available. 


“Closer To The End” captures the essence of Death League’s sound – ferocious, melodic, and unapologetically intense. With Astrous's infernal vocals leading the charge, this track is a testament to their musical prowess and the raw energy of their forthcoming album.




Produced by Nikos Tsintzilonis, with additional engineering by Dimitris Karagougas, Inferno features:
- A blistering guitar solo on the song “Approaching the Madness” by Gus Drax (Suicidal Angels, Sunburst, Black Fate)
- Guest keyboards by Themis K.
- Album artwork by the legendary Adrian Smith (Warhammer fame)!





Tracklisting:


“Infernal Dust”
“Hysteric Epidemic”
“Approaching The Madness”
“Closer To The End”
“Fall From Grace”
“Annihilated Race”
“Next In Line”
“Death League”
“Enchant The Evil Spirit”
“Fail In Secrecy”


“Closer To The End” lyric video:

Metallica's classic "Fade To Black", from the Ride The Lightning album, has been given the waltz treatment by Postmodern Jukebox vocalist Robyn Adele Anderson and her band. Check out this new rendition of the song, performed live and in one take, below.


Robyn: "I think Metallica’s career would have been taken to a whole new level if they had just added an accordion - so I did it for them!" 







On May 26, 2024, Metallica performed their song "Inamorata" live for the very first time at Olympiastadion in Munich, Germany. Professionally filmed video can be enjoyed below.


"Inamorata", which is the final track on the 72 Seasons album, is the longest Metallica song yet, with a running time of 11 minutes and 10 seconds.


Prior to launching into "Inamorata", Metallica frontman James Hetfield told the crowd: "This next song, we have never, ever played live before. And, you know, in our band we don't recognize the word mistake, because there are no mistakes. There's just unique moments that happen, all right? That's what we need to tell ourselves. This one is from 72 Seasons. It's one of my favorites."





Metallica's complete tour schedule is available at this location.

Formed out of the love for classic death metal, ‘80s shred worship, and creating gory lyrics about B-horror movies, Chicago's Necronomicon Ex Mortis unleashed two EPs in 2023, (Self-Titled - March 2023) and (Silver Bullet - August 2023) and now return in 2024 with their third entitled You And Your Friends Are Dead: Game Over due out on June 28. Over the past few months they have been feeding the frenzy of horror metal fans with their singles "My Bloody Valentine", Leprechaun", "In The Mouth of Madness" and "The Dead Zone".


"This EP shows Necronomicon Ex Mortis at our most versatile; proving we have multiple ways to rip your face off! We think the fans will love the variety on this release! We want to have the listener have their expectations constantly challenged on this record!" - Guitarist - Michael Nystrom Bala - Necronomicon Ex Mortis


The tracks on You And Your Friends Are Dead: Game Over were chosen specifically by the band to all be incredibly different from one another. These recordings are a love letter to death metal, but also sometimes lean on the melodic side; sometimes brutal, sometimes technical. The band hops in and out of subgenres like various seasonings over baked chicken. Lyrically, the record touches on horror murder and blood.




All the tracks on the EP tell an extreme metal interpretation of the movies they are titled after. From its opener, "My Bloody Valentine", a thrash and technical death metal collision, to "Leprechaun", a melodic metal track that’s short and sweet, just like an actual Leprechaun. "In the Mouth of Madness" is low, slow, and filled with symmetrical scales. This one takes a more mid-paced approach to death metal. This song retells the story of John Carpenter's legendary movie of the same title. "The Dead Zone", is a song based more on the ‘90s progressive death metal sound with lots of symmetrical scales, extreme dissonance, and a cool guitar moment from Manuel Barbara. And EP closer "Jason Lives", screams “guitarist, songwriter/lyricist Mike Bala has been listening to too much Autopsy." and witnesses the band down the path of death/doom section right in the middle. This song retells the story of “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives.”


Preorder on Bandcamp.





Tracklisting:


“My Bloody Valentine”
“Leprechaun”
“In The Mouth Of Madness”
“The Dead Zone”
“Jason Lives”


“My Bloody Valentine”:





“Leprechaun”:





“In The Mouth Of Madness”:

Watch the axemen of Anciients bend and burn their way through "Melt The Crown", the first single off the JUNO Award winner's third album Beyond The Reach Of The Sun.  





Beyond The Reach Of The Sun is out August 30, 2024 on Season Of Mist. Preorder here.




Fans who’ve waited on bended knee for more fretboard heroics will not be disappointed by Beyond The Reach Of The Sun. Lead single “Melt The Crown” fires off not one, not two, but three guitar solos. Each one comes with its own unique flavor, too, spanning from plaintive folk to southern blues and psychedelic prog.


Of course, Anciients aren’t afraid to headbang. After a spell of acoustic fingerpicking, “Cloak Of The Vast And Black” reveals itself as a chugging riff monster. Conceptually, the album is just as heavy. It tells the story of a society that’s enslaved by forces from another dimension. 


But at its core, Beyond The Reach Of The Sun is about perseverance. Just as the enslaved discover spiritual knowledge by way of a cosmic entity, writing these songs also lead the band to uncover new wellsprings of inspiration. “Is It Your God” concludes with an epiphany of synths that dazzle like a laser light show. “Searching for a better way”, sings Kenny Cook on the epic closer “In The Absence of Wisdom”. His voice booms with reverb, but its radiance comes from a fresh stroke of insight.





Tracklisting:


“Forbidden Sanctuary”
“Despoiled”
“Is It Your God”
“Melt The Crown”
“Cloak Of The Vast And Black”
“Celestial Tyrant”
“Beyond Our Minds”
“The Torch”
“Candescence”
“In The Absence Of Wisdom”


“Melt The Crown”:

Former FEAR FACTORY frontman Burton C. Bell played the first concert with his solo band last night (Thursday, June 13) at 1720 in Los Angeles, California.

Backing Bell at the 1720 gig were guitarist Henrik Linde (THE VITALS, DREN),drummer Ryan Junior Kittlitz (ALL HAIL THE YETI, THE ACID HELPS),bassist Tony Baumeister (ÆGES) and multi-instrumentalist Stewart Cararas.

Fan-filmed video of the show can be seen below.

When the 1720 concert was first announced, Burton called the gig a "historic event" and vowed to perform "new songs and classics spanning my career."

This past March, Bell, who recently released his debut solo single, "Anti-Droid", was asked by Knotfest's "Nu Pod" podcast if he has an entire album's worth of material ready to come out. He responded: "No. I'm working on individual singles at a time. I do have a record's worth of music. But I'm adopting the hip-hop strategy where instead of coming up, releasing a single and then the whole album comes out a couple of weeks later, and then a couple of weeks later, when that album is out, the momentum of the single and the whole record just kind of slows and becomes sluggish and just almost crashes. So I learned watching hip-hop artists and other artists as well, [where] they would just release a single at a time, keep that momentum, keep that spotlight on them and just release a single every few weeks and just keep that momentum going."

He continued: "In this day and age, the short attention span of the masses is very apparent. There's this old saying in economics, less is more — supply and demand, less is more. So if you just feed 'em just a little bit at a time, they wanna hear more. And that's where the interest stays. They're compelled to keep listening. 'Oh, he's got something else coming out. Oh, he's got something else coming out.'"

Bell went on to tease his next single, which he described as "heavy", "groovy" and "dark. It's more uptempo. It's got more guitar in it," he revealed. "And it's gonna be awesome. I've got a couple of guest artists on this next track that it's gonna be sick. I recruited Paul Ferguson again, and I've also recruited Norman Westberg, guitar player from SWANS. SWANS is one of my favorite bands of all time and it's a band that influenced not just me but NEUROSIS — a lot of bands — GODFLESH."

Asked if he is planning to play shows or get a band together to promo his music, Bell said: "Yes to all of those questions. I'm in the process of booking a show. It's gonna be a showcase. It's gonna be in L.A., and I have a band together. They're already working on [the set]. It's a retrospection, so I plan to play four new songs, some deep-cut FEAR FACTORY, some [ASCENSION OF THE] WATCHERS, some G/Z/R, some CITY OF FIRE.

"My new music is an amalgamation of everything I've ever done, and I'm gonna basically put it all together into this package and just see what happens," he explained. "And the live show, it's gonna be heavy, it's gonna be groovy. And I wanna create a vibe. I really do."

When "Anti-Droid" was first released in March, Bell said in a statement: "I'm starting my solo career. I'm working with different producers and co-songwriters, making music that I love, with full control of the music and creative direction."

Bell's discography includes multiple live and recorded collaborations with BLACK SABBATH icon Geezer Butler and JOURNEY's Deen Castronovo (as G/Z/R); industrial maverick Al Jourgensen and MINISTRY; and guest vocal appearances with PITCHSHIFTER, CONFLICT, SOIL, STATIC-X, SOULFLY and DELAIN, among others. He's the vocalist of ASCENSION OF THE WATCHERS and CITY OF FIRE and, of course, the co-creator of FEAR FACTORY and the only musician to appear on every FEAR FACTORY release from 1992 through 2024.

FEAR FACTORY created a sound that revolutionized extreme metal, defined in no small part by Bell's innovative scream/sing dichotomy and the influences he brought from post-punk and industrial. Songs like "Replica", "Linchpin", "Edgecrusher", "Fear Campaign", "Archetype", "Cyber Waste" and "Zero Signal" are modern metal anthems. "Demanufacture" (1995) and the RIAA gold-certified "Obsolete" (1998) are genre-redefining works heralded by fans and critics as essential albums. Orwell, Bradbury, "Blade Runner", and sophisticated sci-fi and fantasy works fed Bell's lyrics and concepts.

The band toured the world with METALLICA, SLIPKNOT, KORN, MEGADETH and OZZY OSBOURNE, taking bands like SYSTEM OF A DOWN and STATIC-X out as support acts in their early stages. After years of behind-the-scenes band member turmoil and legal issues, Bell left FEAR FACTORY in the fall of 2020.

In the chorus of "Anti-Droid", he declares: "I'd rather be dead than a slave to the factory."

Bell says "Anti-Droid" is "a statement about breaking free. Breaking the bonds of what I felt was a prison in many ways. Not just financially or contractually but creatively, as well. I felt constrained to this format we'd written ourselves into. The 'factory' doesn't have a capital F. It's the factory of the music industry, a certain form of business, and priorities. Being a slave to an established way of thinking is not really freedom. I am moving forward."

Like the faithful cover of RAMMSTEIN's "Du Hast" he released in 2023, or the cover of "Enter Sandman" recorded with DANZIG's John Christ and METALLICA's Robert Trujillo more than a decade before, Bell's solo work embodies the best of hard rock, metal, and industrial's past, present and future. "Anti-Droid" is but the opening salvo in a brand-new campaign, which will see Burton C. Bell releasing increasingly innovative yet classic feeling, ever-engaging solo material.

The 55-year-old Bell had been largely inactive on the musical front since officially announcing his departure from FEAR FACTORY in September 2020. At the time he said that he could not "align" himself with someone whom he did not trust or respect, an apparent reference to FEAR FACTORY founding guitarist Dino Cazares.

During an appearance on a May 2023 episode of the "Home Is Where The Dark Is" podcast, Bell reflected on his musical journey so far, saying: "I've had a lot of incredible ups in my career, a lot of incredible high points. I've had some devastatingly low points. But for me, this is all I wanna do.

"I consider myself an artist — multifaceted, but first and foremost I'm a musician; I'm a singer. So I wanna keep continuing that," he explained.

"I love performing on stage. I love being out in front of the crowd. I love the energy of the audience, and I miss it completely.

"I am making plans — I'm making steps to get back onstage."

At the end of the chat, when host Alex Crescioni thanked Bell for his "inspiring" musical output over the years, including that with FEAR FACTORY and ASCENSION OF THE WATCHERS, Burton said: "People will hear those again. When I get back on the road, I'll be playing… I'm proud of 99 percent of the songs we did [with] FEAR FACTORY. Not every song is a winner, but I'm proud of all the work I did with FEAR FACTORY, THE WATCHERS, GZR, CITY OF FIRE, MINISTRY, HATEFACE. There's all these bands I've been part of. So when I go on the road, I will be playing music from all of these bands. Obviously, a lot from FEAR FACTORY, 'cause I got 30 years of that. But it's not gonna be all about FEAR FACTORY. It's gonna be FEAR FACTORY, WATCHERS, classic GZR, CITY OF FIRE — just do all of it. It's gonna be fun. And I'm jamming with some guys right now. We're working on it and making those steps to make that happen."

In March 2023, Bell was asked by Joshua Toomey of the "Talk Toomey" podcast how it felt to see FEAR FACTORY going out on tour with someone else singing the parts he originally wrote and recorded with the band. He responded: "It doesn't affect me at all. To be honest, I haven't been this happy in a long time. More power to them, but I'm just moving forward in my own life, my own career, and I'm just trying to make a name for myself."

Asked if he has checked out any of the videos on YouTube of FEAR FACTORY performing with his replacement, the Italian-born singer Milo Silvestro, Bell said: "No, I don't. I don't care to."

Burton went on to say that he doesn't mind being asked about FEAR FACTORY despite the fact that he is no longer in the band. "FEAR FACTORY, it's what I'm known for," he explained. "And the 30 years I had with FEAR FACTORY were some of the proudest moments of my career. And everything I've ever done in FEAR FACTORY I'm very proud of. Even some of the questionable things I've done in FEAR FACTORY I'm still proud of. It was a great legacy."

During an April 2022 appearance on an episode of "The Ex-Man" podcast hosted by Doc Coyle (BAD WOLVES),Bell touched upon FEAR FACTORY's latest album, "Aggression Continuum", which was released in June 2021 via Nuclear Blast Records. The LP, which was recorded primarily in 2017, features Bell and fellow original FF member Dino Cazares (guitar) alongside drummer Mike Heller.

"I was just happy that record finally came out," Burton said. "We finished that record in 2017. By the time it came out, I'd forgotten all about it. 'Oh, yeah, I remember that song. Oh yeah.'

"There's some good songs on that record. The song 'Collapse' is a good song. The title track 'Monolith' is a good song," he added, referencing the LP's original working title, before it was changed by Cazares.

When Coyle noted that the mix on "Aggression Continuum" is "great," Bell hesitated for a couple of seconds before reluctantly agreeing. "I guess," he said. "When I finished the record [in 2017], the record was done and agreed upon and then further work was done without my say."

Elsewhere in the chat, Burton admitted that "it was difficult" for him to leave FEAR FACTORY. "Stepping away from FEAR FACTORY was not an easy decision by [any] means," he said. "But what I experienced for the 10 years before that, the lawsuits, the acrimony, that was the one that killed me. And I just had to step away to realize, you know, they can take all this stuff from me — they can take the money, they can take the royalties, they can take the trademark away from me — and I realized that didn't define me. They can take that, but I'm still Burton C. Bell, motherfucker, and whatever I have they can't take. So I'm just kind of moving forward and doing new things."

According to Bell, hardship is par for the course for most musicians, who often find themselves victims of bad contracts, unscrupulous management and, all too often, what appears to be a penchant for self-destruction.

"I knew a long time ago I wanted to be an artist — way before I was in FEAR FACTORY," he said. "When I was in high school, I was, like, 'I wanna be an artist.' To be an artist, you've gotta suffer. You've gotta understand that people wanna take from you the entire time — what you create they wanna make money off of and take it away from you and just give you a pittance. But being bitter is not my style — never has been.

"Whatever negativity has happened in the past with FEAR FACTORY doesn't even hold up to the amount of positivity that has happened," he continued. "If you think about the negative, it can weigh you down so much, but it's not really that much in comparison to what the band achieved, what we created, what we provided to the music world, and for that I'm proud and very happy.

"No one likes to talk to a bitter person at all," Burton added. "Me for one. It's, like, 'Man, just get over it and just move on.' 'Cause holding on to the past doesn't serve me anything, it doesn't serve anybody else anything. Move on and show 'em what you can do from that point forward."

Bell's exit from FEAR FACTORY came more than two weeks after Cazares launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist him with the production costs associated with the release of FEAR FACTORY's latest LP.

Bell later told Kerrang! magazine that his split with FEAR FACTORY was a long time coming. "It's been on my mind for a while," he said. "These lawsuits [over the rights to the FEAR FACTORY name] just drained me. The egos. The greed. Not just from bandmembers, but from the attorneys involved. I just lost my love for it.

"With FEAR FACTORY, it's just constantly been, like, 'What?!' You can only take so much. I felt like 30 years was a good run. Those albums I've done with FEAR FACTORY will always be out there. I'll always be part of that. I just felt like it was time to move forward."

Last year, Bell unveiled "Paradise Found", his debut exhibition of photographic works, at the Vincent Castiglia Gallery in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The photographs Bell presented were representational of his industrial and science-fiction aesthetic.

"Paradise Found" consisted of 20 original full-color photographs of abandoned industrial buildings taken in darkness and fog from 2002 to 2003. Bell's images are printed on aluminum using the dye sublimation process — an approach Bell calls "celluloid impressionism."

Bell's ASCENSION OF THE WATCHERS project released its second full-length album, "Apocrypha", in October 2020 via Dissonance Productions.

Burton C Bell at 1720 Club

Posted by Skum Love on Thursday, June 13, 2024

Following their successful debut Colossal Gods, Cobra The Impaler returns with their second full-length Karma Collision an album forged in the crucible of modern turmoil and bound by the chains of classic metal fury. This - their sophomore offering - stands as a towering monument amidst the ruins of lesser gods, a beacon of defiance shining in the shadow of a society on the brink. The album is out now via Listenable Records.


A guitar playthrough for track “Godless Beyonder” is streaming below. Cobra The Impaler proudly uses Jackson guitars, EVH amps, ESP guitars, Bare Knuckle Pickups, Ernie Ball strings & Blackstar amps.







Karma Collision was recorded at Studio Scampi 2024, produced and mixed by Ace Zec, and mastered by Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios.


Karma Collision is available as a digipack, double gatefold vinyl, and digital.


Artwork by Thijs De Cloedt:





Tracklisting:


“Magnetic Hex”
“Godless Beyonder”
“Season Of The Savage”
“Eye Of The Storm”
“Karma Collision”
“My Inferno”
“The Fountain”
“The Message”
“Assassins Of The Vision”
“Shifting Sands”


Cobra The Impaler is:
Thijs De Cloedt (Guitars)
Ace Zec (Drums)
Manuel Remmerie (Vocals)
James Falck (Guitars)
Michele De Feudis (Bass & Vocals)

Due to "health" reasons, former GREAT WHITE singer Jack Russell sat out the June 8 concert by his current band JACK RUSSELL'S GREAT WHITE at the Feather Falls Casino & Lodge in Oroville, California. He was replaced at the gig by Andrew Freeman, a member of LAST IN LINE who fronted GREAT WHITE for a five-month period in 2022 following the latter group's split with Mitch Malloy.

Video of the concert can be seen below (courtesy of Jessica Chase).

On June 4, Feather Falls Casino & Lodge shared the following statement via social media: "Regrettably, we need to inform the fans of JACK RUSSELL'S GREAT WHITE that Jack will not be performing this weekend at Feather Falls Casino due to an ongoing health issue. Performing in his place will be friends of Jack Russell featuring his band members Robby Lochner (guitar),Dan McNay (bass),Ken Mary (drums) and Tony Montana (axe/keys). Andrew Freeman has stepped up to help out on vocals. Andrew is the A-list vocalist of LAST IN LINE and also former member of OFFSPRING, LYNCH MOB and GREAT WHITE. The 'Friends of Jack' band will be performing all the hits plus some DIO classics! BULLETBOYS kick off the night in true Rock N' Roll fashion! We appreciate your continued support as Jack works on getting his health in order!"

In a separate message below the above post, Feather Falls Casino & Lodge director of marketing and entertainment David Enser added: "Hello Everyone, This press release was provided by agency representing JACK RUSSELL'S GREAT WHITE & BULLET BOYS. We here at Feather Falls Casino are just passing on the information to make sure that everyone is aware of the changes. The show will go on as scheduled so with it not being cancelled we have a no refund policy. If you are still attending the show I promise you will have a great time and not be disappointed with Andrew Freeman as the front man while Jack is recovering. Thank you for your continued support, hopefully I will see you at the show on Saturday. Rock On Fellow Rockers!"

On June 6, Freeman confirmed his participation in last Saturday's concert, writing in a social media post: "I'll be filling in on vocals for JACK RUSSELL'S GREAT WHITE on Saturday at Feather Falls Casino in Oroville, CA. Wishing Jack a speedy recovery. That dude is tough as nails and I'm honored to fill in for him."

Russell exited GREAT WHITE in December 2011 after he was unable to tour with the group due a series of injuries, including a perforated bowel and a shattered pelvis. Jack largely blamed these injuries on his alcohol and painkiller addictions as well as the prednisone drug he was prescribed.

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

Freeman discussed his short tenure with GREAT WHITE in a March 2023 interview with the "This That & The Other With Troy Patrick Farrell" podcast. The Las Vegas-based musician said about his vocal approach for the gig: "I was never a big fan of GREAT WHITE. So when I went in there, there was a couple of songs that I liked. I love their first album. But I wasn't a fan of certain elements of that. So when I went in there, I went in as like a blues guy. A lot of those songs are very bluesy and they have a very hard blues element to them, so I wanted to bring out that blues element to it. So I kind of approached it as HUMBLE PIE — kind of where they were influenced from — HUMBLE PIE or LED ZEPPELIN instead of coming like a student of Jack Russell or a student of [RATT's] Stephen Pearcy or a student of '80s singers. I wanted to come in as a student of what inspired that music."

In May 2022, GREAT WHITE announced that it had parted ways with Malloy and had replaced him with Freeman. Malloy had been in GREAT WHITE for nearly four years, having joined the group in 2018 following the departure of Terry Ilous.

Brett Carlisle made his live debut with GREAT WHITE in September 2022 and was officially named the band's new vocalist in October of that year.

One of the best shows I've been to in a long time. Was going to be Jack Russell's Great White but he was ill so Last in...

Posted by Trisha Duggan on Sunday, June 9, 2024

I’ll be filling in on vocals with the Friends of Jack Russell on Saturday at Feather Falls Casino in Oroville, CA....

Posted by Andrew Freeman on Thursday, June 6, 2024

Regrettably, we need to inform the fans of Jack Russell’s Great White that Jack will not be performing this weekend at...

Posted by Feather Falls Casino & Lodge on Tuesday, June 4, 2024

Unextinct, the new full-length album from Hideous Divinity, is available now via Century Media Records. The band have shared this drum playthrough video the song, "Mysterium Tremendum":





Order your copy of Unextinct at this location. The album is available in the following formats:




- Ltd. CD Digipak
- Ltd. CD Jewelcase (US Edition)
- Ltd. Gatefold Transparent Sun Yellow 1LP 180g Vinyl – Limited to only 1200 copies worldwide
- Digital Album





Tracklisting:


"Dust Settles On Humanity"
"The Numinous One"
"Against The Sovereignty Of Mankind"
"Atto Quarto: The Horror Paradox"
"Quasi-Sentient"
"Hair, Dirt, Mud"
"More Than Many, Never One"
"Der Verlorene Sohn"
"Mysterium Tremendum"
"Leben Ohne Feuer"

During an appearance on the June 12 episode of SiriusXM's "Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk", Duff McKagan was asked if he thinks GUNS N' ROSES will ever release more "newly written music" again as opposed to continuing to rework and put out previously composed songs. The GN'R bassist responded: "Absolutely. Yeah, absolutely. There's new material. I don't know how we're gona put it out. I think that's a question too. Like, do you put out a record? Do you just keep putting out singles? I don't know what the right answer is there in this day and age."

The legendary hard rock outfit has not released a full-length effort since 2008's "Chinese Democracy", which included only singer Axl Rose from the band's classic lineup. McKagan and guitarist Slash reunited with Axl in 2016 and have since released several standalone singles — "Absurd" (stylized as "ABSUЯD"),"Hard Skool", "Perhaps" and "The General" — but have not made any announcements about another LP.

In a recent interview with the Daily Star, Slash, who is promoting "Orgy Of The Damned", a record of mostly blues tracks featuring a string of guest vocalists, was asked why Axl and Slash's THE CONSPIRATORS collaborator Myles Kennedy aren't featured on his new album. The 58-year-old guitarist replied: "It was my own side thing, so I wasn't dragging my own guys in.

"GUNS N' ROSES are trying to make their own record and I'm working with them in that capacity but this didn't involve anyone else," he explained.

GUNS N' ROSES released a four-song EP, "Hard Skool", in February 2022. The effort, which was exclusive to the GUNS N' ROSES' official store, contained the two new songs the band released in 2021 — the title track and "Absurd" — as well as live versions of "Don't Cry" and "You're Crazy".

According to Slash, several other older GUNS N' ROSES tracks have also been reworked during the pandemic. "There's a handful of those songs that we actually fixed up and did when we were in lockdown," he explained to "Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk". "So those have yet to be released. So those are gonna come out. They're really good, too. So I'm excited for those. We're just gonna put out like one or two songs, and another one or two songs. And I think that's gonna be pretty much all of 'em. I'm not sure exactly how many we did in total."

When host Eddie Trunk noted that "Hard Skool" in particular was a strong cut, Slash said: "These other ones, they don't have the same kind of amount of history, 'cause I know 'Hard Skool' seriously has… [it] goes way back. But there's a couple of epic ones coming out, so I'm excited about that."

If and when it happens, the new GUNS N' ROSES studio album will be the first under the GUNS banner since "Chinese Democracy" and the first to feature Slash, Rose and bassist Duff McKagan since 1993.

Slash previously spoke about "Hard Skool", one of the first two songs he recorded with GUNS N' ROSES in more than 25 years, in February 2023 in an interview with Rolling Stone. At the time he said: "'Hard Skool', in essence, was a completed song when I was first introduced to it. And Duff and I went in and redid the bass and the guitars. It's a simple song, so it didn't take a hell of a lot of thought and analysis. I think it was a lot of fun just because it was part and parcel of a bunch of stuff that we were working on that was all sort of new — at least to Duff and I — so we had a good time."

In October 2021, Slash told Audacy Check In host Remy Maxwell that GUNS N' ROSES had yet to begin writing new material after releasing the two reworked songs from the "Chinese Democracy"-era sessions.

"As far as new GUNS is concerned, we haven't even gotten to that point of really in earnest sitting down and writing," Slash said. "We've been doing a lot of material that's been sort of sitting around for a while. So that will be a whole focused endeavor unto itself."

As for how "Hard Skool" and "Absurd" came about, Slash said: "They both have a lot of history. What happened was Axl has all these songs that he recorded at some point along the way. And so Duff and I went in and re-did them, basically… Like, I wrote my own kind of parts to what else is going on, and [we] just sort of took the drums and re-did everything else."

Written by Rose and co-produced by Rose and Caram Costanzo, "Hard Skool", which had the working title "Jackie Chan", was originally recorded during GN'R's "Chinese Democracy" era but was eventually omitted from that album. Short clips of the song were later posted online and a full version was leaked in August 2019.

"Absurd" came out on August 6, 2021, three days after GUNS N' ROSES performed the tune live for the first time during its concert at Boston's Fenway Park.

GUNS N' ROSES last performed "Silkworms", which was also reportedly written during the "Chinese Democracy" sessions, in 2001.

"The General" was the B-side of GUNS N' ROSES' limited-edition seven-inch vinyl single titled "Perhaps", which was made available for pre-order in August 2023.

Like "Perhaps", "Hard Skool" and "Absurd", "The General" was written during the sessions for the "Chinese Democracy" album. It was previously talked about by ex-GN'R drummer Bryan "Brain" Mantia, who reportedly wrote some of the song's music and gave it its title, and former SKID ROW singer Sebastian Bach.

Photo courtesy of The Oriel Company

Midnight Vice, the NWOTHM band from the Southeastern US metal capital of Tampa, Florida, is proud to announce their recent signing with RPM ROAR, a division of Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM). They also look forward to releasing their self-titled EP in the near future. Known for their homage to the 1980s metal legends, the band mixes crushing riffs, soaring vocals, and blazing guitar solos, creating a sound both familiar and fresh. Their style is marked by denim and leather, and a "take no prisoners" attitude.


"We are so humbly honored to be welcomed into the Reigning Phoenix family. The success and feedback of our debut was far beyond expected, but joining forces with a record label that is dedicated to amplifying a new era of heavy metal has undoubtedly been our biggest achievement thus far. We want to extend our gratitude to our friends, our family, and everyone at Reigning Phoenix who believed we could do this. We are so eternally grateful to be a part of something that is redefining the metal industry as we know it. Working alongside RPM will allow us to deliver a whole new era of Midnight Vice, providing us the resources that we need to make our next release even better than the last. We look forward to our long and fruitful partnership with RPM. Heavy metal never dies, and Reigning Phoenix is the living proof," comments vocalist Tyler Gray.


Midnight Vice draws heavy influence from bands like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Savatage, Crimson Glory, and many more. They bring a traditional yet energetic approach to their music, igniting the spirit within die-hard metal heads. “Heavy Metal is an undying force that inspires and empowers. It's a power cage that no true fan will ever escape. Midnight Vice embodies that, and we stay true to the spirit of what our predecessor's created,” states the singer.




RPM ROAR will release Midnight Vice's debut EP, including additional material in physical format, later this year. Stay tuned for more news.


Midnight Vice live:


July
26 - Conduit - Orlando, FL (with Anvil)


August
6 - Conduit - Orlando, FL (with Haunt and Savage Master)


December
31 - Whisky A Go Go - Los Angeles, CA (with L.A Guns)


(Photo - Chuck Burns)

Canadian extreme metallers CRYPTOPSY have inked a deal with Season Of Mist. The band is now preparing to release new music, along with definitive reissues from their classic catalog.

After an ungentle exhumation from the Canadian underground during the early 1990s, CRYPTOPSY quickly rose to recognition amongst metalheads all across the globe. Most bands would consider themselves lucky to make one classic album. CRYPTOPSY have made three, including "None So Vile", which is widely considered one of the best death metal albums of all time.

CRYPTOPSY's raw and blistering technical prowess set a precedent for extreme music. After all, their eldest statesmen did write the book on this style of drumming. But the band have continued to evolve throughout their storied career. Their 30-year discography defies any one categorization, incorporating everything from jazz fusion to mathy avant-garde rhythms and melodic experimentation before returning to their more brutal form.

Just last year, CRYPTOPSY won a JUNO Award for their most recent album, "As Gomorrah Burns". This year, the band earned another prestigious honor: joining the celebration of death metal's most iconic band. While they continue to tour North America alongside DEATH TO ALL, CRYPTOPSY made a stop at Maryland Deathfest for a special 30th-anniversary set of their debut album, "Blasphemy Made Flesh".

Now that they've signed with Season Of Mist, CRYPTOPSY are focused on keeping their momentum rolling. They're hitting the road this fall on a second tour of North America, this time with CARNIFEX.

"We are thrilled to announce that CRYPTOPSY has joined forced with Season Of Mist!" the band says. "Season Of Mist's dedication to artistic integrity and their track record of supporting diverse and innovative music make them the perfect partner for CRYPTOPSY. With their backing, we look forward to reaching new heights creatively, connecting with more fans and continuing to push the boundaries of extreme music. We are excited for the journey ahead and the opportunities this opens up for what's already an exciting new chapter of our band."

CRYPTOPSY is:

Flo Mounier - Drums
Matt McGachy - Vocals
Christian Donaldson - Guitar
Oli Pinard - Bass

Photo by Maciej Pieloch

Ahead of the upcoming release of the expanded edition of VAN HALEN's "For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge" on July 12 via Rhino, the band has unveiled a previously unreleased professionally filmed live performance of "Top Of The World". The footage was filmed live at the West End Marketplace in Dallas, Texas on December 4, 1991, just six months after "For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge" was released. "Top Of The World" spent four weeks at the top of the Billboard Album Rock Tracks chart in the U.S., becoming VAN HALEN's eighth No. 1 on this chart. It was the only single off the album to crack the Top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 27.

"For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge" debuted at No. 1 and stayed there for three weeks during the summer of 1991. It was the third consecutive No. 1 album from singer Sammy Hagar, guitarist Eddie Van Halen, drummer Alex Van Halen and bassist Michael Anthony.

An expanded edition of the album is arriving this summer from Rhino, including a newly remastered version of the original, along with previously unreleased audio and video footage from VAN HALEN's December 4, 1991 concert in Dallas, Texas.

"For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge (Expanded Edition)" will be available on July 12 and includes two LPs, two CDs, and a Blu-ray.

Rhino.com will have an exclusive bundle featuring the release and a set of four seven-inch singles, including "Poundcake" / "Pleasure Dome", "Top Of The World" / "In 'N' Out", "Right Now" (Organ Version) / "Man On A Mission" and "Right Now" (Guitar Version) / "The Dream Is Over" (Instrumental Version).

Originally released in June 1991, "For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge" was an immediate success. It reached triple platinum certification and earned VAN HALEN its first Grammy Award for "Best Hard Rock Performance" and American Music Award for "Favorite Heavy Metal/Hard Rock Album". Producer and engineer Bernie Grundman expertly remastered and cut lacquers for this edition, ensuring pristine sound quality.

The expanded edition includes previously unreleased alternate versions of "Right Now" and "The Dream Is Over". The main attraction, however, has to be the previously unreleased concert footage from VAN HALEN's December 4, 1991, performance in Dallas. Captured during the "For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge" tour, this electrifying show is a powerful example of VAN HALEN's unparalleled stage presence.

The show's setlist mixes new songs ("Judgement Day" and "Poundcake") with songs from "5150" and "OU812" ("Best Of Both Worlds" and "Finish What Ya Started"). The band also played "Panama", a hit from its time with singer David Lee Roth, plus two of Hagar's hits, "I Can't Drive 55" and "There's Only One Way To Rock".

In addition, the Blu-ray includes the official music videos for "Poundcake", "Runaround", "Top Of The World" and the 1992 MTV VMA "Video Of The Year" winner "Right Now". Finally, the remastered album is included in the set as a double LP, featuring an etching of the VAN HALEN logo on the fourth side.

"For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge (Expanded Edition)" 2-CD track listing

Disc One: Original Album Remastered

01. Poundcake
02. Judgement Day
03. Spanked
04. Runaround
05. Pleasure Dome
06. In 'N' Out
07. Man On A Mission
08. The Dream Is Over
09. Right Now
10. 316
11. Top Of The World

Disc Two: Rarities & Live

01. Right Now – Organ Version (Single Mix)
02. The Dream Is Over – Instrumental Version *
03. Right Now – Guitar Version (Single Mix) *

Live at the Westend Market, Dallas, TX (12/4/91)

04. Poundcake *
05. Judgement Day *
06. There's Only One Way To Rock *
07. Runaround *
08. Why Can't This Be Love *
09. Panama *
10. A Apolitical Blues *
11. Finish What Ya Started *
12. I Can't Drive 55 *
13. Best Of Both Worlds *
14. Top Of The World *

Blu-ray

Live at the Westend Market, Dallas, TX (12/4/91)

01. Poundcake *
02. Judgement Day *
03. There's Only One Way To Rock *
04. Runaround *
05. Why Can't This Be Love *
06. Panama *
07. A Apolitical Blues *
08. Finish What Ya Started *
09. I Can't Drive 55 *
10. Best Of Both Worlds *
11. Top Of The World *
12. Poundcake - Promo Video
13. Runaround - Promo Video
14. Right Now - Promo Video
15. Top Of The World - Promo Video

LP: Original Album Remastered

2-LP track listing

LP One: Side One

01. Poundcake
02. Judgement Day
03. Spanked
04. Runaround

Side Two

01. Pleasure Dome
02. In 'N' Out
03. Man On A Mission

LP Two: Side One

01. The Dream Is Over
02. Right Now
03. 316
04. Top Of The World

Side Two

VAN HALEN Logo Etching

* Previously unreleased

In a new interview with Sakis Fragos, publisher/chief editor of Rock Hard Greece, founding SEPULTURA guitarist/vocalist Max Cavalera was asked if he has been approached by the current lineup of the band to take part in what will eventually be SEPULTURA's final concert at the end of the group's ongoing farewell tour. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "I have not [been approached]. In fact, I think I saw one thing Andreas [Kisser, SEPULTURA guitarist], of course said [in an interview], like, 'Why are we gonna ask them [Max and former SEPULTURA drummer Igor Cavalera to take part]? They're gonna spoil the party,' which is very typical [laughs] of Andreas to say that.

"I don't know. I think I'm gonna let things happen the way they're gonna happen," he continued. "I'm not gonna force anything, and if there comes a time where we feel that we should make a reunion — okay, fine, as long as we do it the right way. Just like with these re-recordings [of early SEPULTURA albums that Igor and I are doing under the CAVALERA name]. I think we made them the right way — honest, proper, from the heart.

"So right now I'm not thinking about that [a reunion]," Max added. "I know they announced the end of the band. I don't understand this idea. I don't know if they were forced to do it, or if it's a mutual decision of just stop playing 'cause you don't wanna do it anymore. I don't know. I myself cannot live without music. I need to play live. It's like the air I breathe.

"I love what I'm doing right now with Igor, with CAVALERA, and we're gonna continue," he concluded.

SEPULTURA fell apart in 1996 with the exit of Max after the rest of the Brazilian four-piece split with the vocalist/guitarist's wife Gloria as their manager. Max's brother, drummer Igor "Iggor" Cavalera stuck around with the group for another ten years before leaving SEPULTURA and re-teaming with Max in CAVALERA CONSPIRACY.

Max previously discussed the possibility of a classic SEPULTURA lineup reunion in a February 2023 interview with Thomas S. Orwat, Jr. of Rock Interview Series. He said: "I'm very, very busy right now with all the projects, 'cause I've got so many — SOULFLY being my main band, but also GO AHEAD AND DIE with my son Igor, and KILLER BE KILLED. And I'm already playing a lot of the old stuff with my brother; that, to me, right there, it fills the void anyway.

"So, yeah, I don't think about that at all," Max said in regard to a SEPULTURA reunion. "At this moment, I don't need to do anything like that. I think at this moment I'm so busy with the stuff that I have in front of me, and the fans love all the stuff that I've been doing anyway. There's no point, really. 'Cause I haven't even thought of that idea in a long time. But I think that my main thing right now is SOULFLY… And I love the fact that SOULFLY just keeps getting stronger and stronger with every record. And I look forward to the time to write the next one. It'll be another challenge and another chance to make something good again."

In the summer of 2022, Igor told the "Mike Nelson Show" about the possibility of him and Max returning to SEPULTURA: "I have to be honest with you, man. The reunion, in my opinion, it's me and my brother — that's the person that I wanna be united with. So, for me, if the other stuff, it doesn't happen, I can't really be too bummed about it. Of course, it would be amazing, but the real reunion for me is just me and my brother being together. That's what makes me happy."

Although SEPULTURA has maintained a diehard fanbase in all parts of the world throughout the band's nearly four-decade history, Max-era albums "Roots" and "Chaos A.D." were by far SEPULTURA's most commercially successful, having both been certified gold in the U.S. for sales in excess of five hundred thousand copies.

Max was asked in a December 2021 interview with "General Population With Marco Lesher" what he thinks of his replacement in SEPULTURA, vocalist Derrick Green. "It doesn't bother me," he insisted. "It is what it is. At the end of the day, the fans know what the band was and what it is now, the difference [between the two]. And I really don't care. I'm not bitter. They do what they do; I do what I do. It's been like that for a long time now. But you can't touch the classics; those records that we did [in the 1980s and 1990s]. It still goes, but it is what it is.

"If you wanna really hear something that sounds close to what it was, you have to come see me and Igor play," he added. "That's the only thing that is gonna be close to what it was, to that time."

Igor and Max have spent much of the decade celebrating the 20th anniversary of SEPULTURA's "Roots" and 30th anniversary of "Beneath The Remains" and "Arise" albums on tour all over the world.

In 2020, SEPULTURA bassist Paulo Xisto Pinto Jr. said that he has had "zero" contact with Max, adding that a reunion with the band's original frontman would have to happen "naturally."

Back in 2017, Igor told The Salt Lake Tribune that he and Max "believe SEPULTURA doesn't really make sense nowadays, to do what they're doing." The drummer also downplayed the possibility of a reunion of SEPULTURA's classic lineup, saying: "Unless it's something really solid — and we haven't seen that from their part — of doing something totally professional and coming together, trying to do something like that. At the end of the day, it would be special for the fans, so it's not like a closed door, but at the same time, we have no time to spend energy with this kind of thing. So we just move forward."

Max echoed his brother's sentiments, telling The Salt Lake Tribune that he doesn't even think about his former bandmates much. "For a time — for a long time — there was a war in the press, like, 'He'll talk this, I'll talk that,'" he explained. "I got really tired of it, honestly. I'm not gonna do that anymore. So let them go their way and do their thing, and we're gonna do our thing, and I think that's the best for everybody."

While stopping short of completely ruling out a reunion of SEPULTURA's classic lineup, Max said: "Right now, we don't even need it. It's been so much of that kind of bad vibes through the years that I don't even know how that would even really work out. I think what [Igor and I] are doing is the closest thing to that, and it works great, it works like a charm. It's amazing."

In December 2023, SEPULTURA announced that it would celebrate its 40th anniversary this year by embarking on a "farewell tour" which will cover the entire globe.

SEPULTURA's current lineup comprises Kisser, Green, Pinto Jr. and touring drummer Greyson Nekrutman, who officially replaced SEPULTURA's longtime drummer Eloy Casagrande in February.

This past January, Max was asked by Scott Itter of Dr. Music if he has heard any of the SEPULTURA albums that were recorded following his departure from the group. He responded: "I haven't. It's like… People say if you break up with your wife and she marries somebody else, you don't really go on Facebook and go see what they're doing. [You keep your] distance. I feel kind of like that. So I have no interest. I've got a lot of stuff to keep me busy. It's a fair question, and I'm sure a lot of people wonder about that, but, yeah, I haven't [heard anything]."

Max previously addressed the question of whether he has heard any of the music SEPULTURA recorded after his exit from the group nearly three decades ago in a 2015 interview with Sticks For Stones. At the time, he said: "Fuck no! I don't give a shit about SEPULTURA or what they're doing. I just heard from fans that people don't like their albums, and they're shitty, and the band's just going down and down, and, I don't know… I really can't care, can't care less what they're doing. It don't concern me at all. I've got my things going, and, for me, it's just so sad to see a band that was so important and special in the '90s turn to shit like that so fast. But whatever, that's what they're doing. But I've got my things, I've got my things to do, and I'm proud of what I did with them. We did great records and we did cool stuff, and that's there forever, and I'll leave it at that."

Asked if he would still call his former bandmates in SEPULTURA friends, Max said: "Not really, 'cause there is a lot of animosity and bad vibes in that camp, and a lot of bad things happened between us and them. So, yeah, I wouldn't, man. I really don't care. Like, life goes on. For me, it's, like, I'm more focused on the moment, what I have in front of me and I have a lot in front of me. A lot of projects… So, I've got to move on forward."

In May of 2024, Metal Department released Amerikan Kaos' Armageddon Boogie, the debut solo release by Annihilator's Jeff Waters. What you get here is pure hard rock, with some killer melodic hooks, making this a refreshing throwback to better days, but with a modern twist. Armageddon Boogie is the first part of a trilogy, with part 2 coming in 2025 and part 3 in 2026.


Today, Waters releases the first single off the debut album, a double-sided affair featuring exclusive radio edited versions of: "My Little Devil" (Jeff Waters) and "Roll On Down The Highway" (Fred Turner, Rob Bachman).







Here are Jeff Waters' own comments on the two tracks:


"My Little Devil": "The first track on the album! There is an obvious 'nod' to AC/DC and the Stones. There is a definite 'Hells Bells' vibe going on in the music part in the beginning and, somehow, it then kind of transitions into a Rolling Stones vibe! I also love the vocals on this one. Chandler Mogel (vocals) has such a nice, gospel/rock feel on this, while Marc and Jessie each put the icing on the cake with their unique backing vocals. The song is about how I met my wife and how I had been living most of my life, just to get to the point of meeting her. This tune seems to be the most popular song from everyone who’s listened to the album, so far... And I think that is also probably my favourite song on the record, too!"





"Roll On Down The Highway": "As a kid growing up in Canada there many amazing bands from my country... Triumph, Rush, April Wine, The Guess Who... Randy Bachman and Burton Cummings were just a legendary duo! But when Randy Bachman left that band and they moved on without him, he started up BTO (Bachman-Turner Overdrive). They produced some of the most bad-ass music and Randy even outsold his former band The Guess Who. We all know 'Taking Care of Business', 'You Ain’t Seen Nothin Yet' and other great songs from that era, but 'Roll on Down the Highway' was one that I would hear as a kid going to hockey games in Canada and I loved it.


"I just had to put a cover song on this record and for a while I thought it would be an April Wine song ... maybe that will appear on the last album of the Amerikan Kaos Trilogy! This was a tough one to do because it’s hard to play like other guitar players, especially the greats, like Randy Bachman! So I kind of went off on my own but kept that vibe and sound of a bit of Van Halen and Jeff Waters in the solo because I just couldn’t pull off the Randy Bachman ... he‘s just got his own style and feel!


"Another cool thing about that is that I got to play it for the guys when I went to Vancouver. I cranked it up at The Armoury Studios and Paul Dean from Loverboy, a friend of mine who was there and with the Mighty Mike Fraser...and they liked this new version of it and I hope a lot of people get to go and revisit BTO...and for those who don’t know that band hopefully you can go listen to them! Oh, and a cool note, Marc LaFrance has been singing on many Annihilator records and the Amerikan Kaos stuff... and on Motley Crue, David Lee Roth, Bon Jovi and many other bands records... but Marc also PLAYS DRUMS for Randy Bachman! Small world." 😊





The single is released as a very limited 7" record through the Rock Kommander website, and of course as streaming tracks on all major streaming sites.





Limited 7" vinyl edition can be ordered from: Rock Kommander, Metal Department.





The Amerikan Kaos debut album, Armageddon Boogie, is available via digital platforms. It is also available in CD and limited edition vinyl LP formats here.





Tracklist:


"My Little Devil"
"The Pasadena Four"
"Roll On Down The Highway"
"Wait For Me (In Heaven)"
"Nobody"
"Armageddon Boogie"
"Pull The Wool"
"Our Love Song"
"Make Believe"
"Let It Go"

BraveWords Records recording artists Lillian Axe have released the music video for the track “No Problem” from their album From Womb To Tomb. The video was produced, directed, and edited by Todd Schmidt and was shot at Peaceful Farms in Poplarville, MS.


"No Problem" was written as a lullaby from Steve Blaze to his son. Letting him know, even when one day, he is gone, he will always be with him. It has transcended into a greater message to all that after their passing our loved ones are watching over and will see us again.







Blaze talks about the “No Problem” video:





Purchase/stream From Womb To Tomb here.





Lillian Axe is a million-selling dramatic hard rock band orchestrating a comeback with their latest album From Womb To Tomb and extensive tour dates which included their return to Europe for the first time in years. The album reached number 28 on the Billboard on the Hard Rock Album chart and has been touted as the band’s magnum opus. In 2010, they became the first-ever hard rock act inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame. 


In November, 2021, Steve Blaze was inducted for the second time for his individual accomplishments as a guitarist and songwriter, which include multiple TV and film soundtracks and appearances, sessions for major artists, and nine years as guitarist for legendary rockers Angel. In 2017, Lillian Axe was awarded the Jackson Indie Music Ikon Award for their musical contribution to the Mississippi music scene for the last 30 years. Since releasing their debut album in 1988, the band has toured with icons such as Alice Cooper, RATT, Accept and many others, as well as rocking hundreds of thousands of fans worldwide at major festivals such as Sweden Rock, Firefest, M3 and Rocklahoma.


(Photo - Todd Schmidt)

Vincent Cavanagh’s new project, The Radicant, showcases the adept musicianship and expressive voice that he honed over 11 albums with the legendary alt-rock band, Anathema. This year, Cavanagh will share his first music under The Radicant moniker with the highly anticipated debut EP, We Ascend. Today, Kscope are excited to share the first single from that EP - "Zero Blue". 


Speaking on the new single, Vincent shared: "I’ve waited for this day for a long time. After years of composing with (and for) visual artists, I’m excited to release my own music as The Radicant. Big love to the Kscope fam and everyone involved.”


The influences of The Radicant’s We Ascend EP span a wide sonic spectrum, from the propulsive drum and bass rhythms of "Zero Blue" to the cinematic electronica of the EP’s title track. It will be available on classic black 12” vinyl from July 12th.




The Radicant embodies Vincent Cavanagh’s artistic philosophy. Inspired by a term used in botany and by art curator Nicolas Bourriaud, "radicant" describes organisms that create their roots gradually as they advance, allowing species to mobilize, adapt, and grow on any surface. 


The EP’s polished production is owed to the close collaborative relationship between Cavanagh and critically acclaimed French producer Ténèbre. Mastering by Sam John at Precise Mastering adds to the immersive experience, evoking vivid imagery and serving as an ideal accompaniment to the visual creations anticipated in a live performance setting. 


Currently, Vincent is collaborating on Homecoming, an interactive mixed-reality installation and dance performance with Georgia Tegou and visual artist Kristina Pulejkova, set to debut in selected theatres in 2025. 


Vincent Cavanagh is currently in the studio working on his debut album as The Radicant, set for release next year.

On June 8th, German rock legends Scorpions brought their Love At First Sting 40th Anniversary Tour to OVO Arena Wembley in London, England. Fan-filmed video of the entire show, courtesy of Room Of Mirrors and shot in 4K, can be viewed below. 


Setlist:


"Coming Home"
"Gas in the Tank"
"Make It Real"
"The Zoo"
"Coast to Coast"
"I'm Leaving You"
"Crossfire"
"Bad Boys Running Wild"
"Delicate Dance" 
"Send Me an Angel"
"Wind of Change" (with new opening lyrics)
"Tease Me Please Me"
"The Same Thrill"
"New Vision" (drum solo)
"Blackout"
"Big City Nights"




Encore:
"Still Loving You"
"Rock You Like a Hurricane"

Octoploid - the solo band of Olli-Pekka "Oppu" Laine (bass, keyboards, backing vocals / Amorphis, Barren Earth, Mannhai) - has released their new single, "The Hallowed Flame", leading towards the highly anticipated release of their debut album, Beyond The Aeons. Already praised by music critics across the globe, Beyond The Aeons is due out on July 5th via Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM).


Accompanied by a striking music video directed by Pete Voutilainen, "The Hallowed Flame" features Oppu’s former Barren Earth bandmate and Swallow The Sun vocalist, Mikko Kotamäki. Octoploid once again takes listeners on a musical journey, heightened by Kotamäki's wide vocal spectrum and garnished with dreamy lead melodies.


Comments Oppu of the track: "It’s a doomy tune sung by Mikko Kotamäki which deals with love, longing, and hope. The crushing theme meets a tender verse, creating a vulnerable balance before the heavy interlude hits. This ballad draws its influences entirely from the ‘90s, boosting the nostalgic vibe of the entire performance."




Stream or buy the song here.





Beyond The Aeons was crafted at E-Studio in Sipoo, Finland where Petri Majuri (Hanoi Rocks, Michael Monroe) took care of mixing the eight tracks and David Castillo (Katatonia, Leprous, Opeth) mastered the album. Orion Landau (Carcass, YOB, Russian Circles ) completed the magnificent package with dreamy artwork.


Pre-order Beyond The Aeons in the physical format of your choice (digipak CD, eco-friendly/recycled “Dusk Of Vex" Marbled vinyl), presave it on your favorite DSP, or pre-order it digitally to receive “Human Amoral [feat. Tomi Joutsen]” instantly now at this location.





Tracklisting:


"The Dawns In Nothingness" [feat. Mikko Kotamäki] *
"Coast Of The Drowned Sailors" [feat. Tomi Koivusaari & Janitor Muurinen] *
"Human Amoral" [feat. Tomi Joutsen] *
"Shattered Wings" [feat. Petri Eskelinen] #/%
"Beyond The Aeons" #/%
"The Hallowed Flame" [feat. Mikko Kotamäki] *
"Concealed Serenity" [feat. Mikko Kotamäki] %
"A Dusk Of Vex" [feat. Jón Aldará | physical: long version; digital: edit] ^/%
"Monotony" (bonus track - physical only) [feat. Petri Eskelinen] %
 
* Kim Rantala (keyboards)
# Samu Leminen (additional lead guitar)
^ Ile Laaksomaa (additional lead guitar)
% Kasper Mårtenson (keybaords)


Octoploid is the solo band of Olli-Pekka Laine (bass, keyboards, backing vocals; Amorphis, Barren Earth, Mannhai), formed in 2022. Combining elements from ‘90s death/black metal, ‘70s prog rock, and ‘90s psychedelic rock, their music has its own place on the map. In one phrase, Octoploid's sound has been described as "classic death prog."


Built around Laine, the core band includes four additional musicians: well-seasoned and diverse drummer Mikko Pietinen brings experience from stoner rock (MannhaI) and Finnish mainstream pop rock (Kasmir), while lead/rhythm guitarist Peter Salonen (The Kinky Thing; a band performing Finnish psych rock legends Kingston Wall covers) is a new face in the scene. The five-piece is completed by keyboardist Kim Rantala (Giant Robot, Amorphis) and vocalist Mikko Kotamäki (Swallow The Sun; live).


For futher details, visit Octoploid on Facebook.


(Photo by Päivi Leino)

During an appearance on the latest episode of Steve-O's Wild Ride! podcast, KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons was asked if he now tours and performs with his solo band. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Yes. GENE SIMMONS BAND already headlined — oh, goodness. We were in South America, São Paulo [in April]… So we're going to Europe [this summer] to headline festivals and other stuff. And [we're] just having a lot of fun."

He continued: "By the way, I designed a business model that is just semi-genius. I show up with my guitar pick. That's it. There's no manager, no roadies, no trucks, no equipment. Everything is provided by the promoter. The flights, the hotels, all the amplifiers, the drums, everything is rented locally. That's the promoter's cost, and whatever six-figure or more amount there is, I pocket. And I literally make more money per gig being Gene Simmons and the GENE SIMMONS BAND than I did in KISS — not counting the ancillaries and all that — because you don't have a 60-man crew, three double deckers, private jet that's on call seven days a week and 20 to 24 tractor trailers."

In addition to Simmons, the GENE SIMMONS BAND members include guitarists Brent Woods (WILDSIDE, SEBASTIAN BACH, VINCE NEIL) and Zach Throne (COREY TAYLOR) alongside drummer Brian Tichy (LYNCH MOB, THE DEAD DAISIES, WHITESNAKE, BILLY IDOL, FOREIGNER, PRIDE & GLORY, SLASH'S SNAKEPIT).

The GENE SIMMONS BAND played its second concert of 2024 on April 26 at the Summer Breeze festival at Memorial Da América Latina in São Paulo, Brazil. The setlist included a number of KISS classics alongside covers of MOTÖRHEAD's "Ace Of Spades" and LED ZEPPELIN's "Communication Breakdown".

Three days earlier, the GENE SIMMONS BAND performed at the grand opening of the Rock & Brews restaurant at the Ilani dining and entertainment destination in Ridgefield, Washington. It marked the KISS bassist/vocalist's first live appearance since the legendary rock act concluded its "End Of The Road" farewell tour at New York's Madison Square Garden in December.

Prior to the Ridgefield appearance, Simmons told ABC Audio about the show: "There are no rules, which is my favorite thing in life. Anything is bound to happen. I may jump off the stage and get into the audience. We may pull some folks out of the audience. You wanna sing 'I Was Made For Lovin' You'? Here's the mic. Good luck."

Regarding the setlist for the concert, he said: "We get a chance to play songs KISS has never played and some songs have never been recorded. So it's a very exciting event."

GENE SIMMONS BAND will next launch a European tour on July 27 in Kuopio, Finland.

Back in 2017 and 2018, the GENE SIMMONS BAND played a number of shows with a lineup that consisted of Simmons alongside guitarist/bassist Jeremy Asbrock, guitarist Ryan Cook, guitarist Phil Shouse and drummer Brent Fitz.

Six years ago, Simmons stated about his solo shows: "Doing these smaller concert halls, which hold a thousand to three thousand people, means they get filled up by real diehard fans. They don't want to hear the 'same old, same old.' They want to hear nuggets, as they say. It's a hoot for me because I've never really had a chance to do this stuff live. It's been a lot of fun." Gene told the Chicago Sun-Times: "By the end, I get the chance to bring as many people from the audience as we can fit on the stage to sing with me."

Regarding how the idea for a solo tour came about, Simmons told Australia's Advertiser in a 2018 interview: "The GENE SIMMONS BAND was not a plan or anything. About a year ago, a corporate event asked me to be keynote speaker … then they said, 'Won't you get up and sing a few tunes?' I explained that you can't just do that, you've got to have a band and rehearse and all that. They said, 'Well, we'll pay you X dollars more,' and I said, 'I like you!' "So I put together a band from Nashville — these guys back up Kid Rock and lots of other people — and without a single rehearsal, I just told them which songs I wanted to do and they learned them. It just sounded natural — there is such a thing called chemistry. They don't teach that anywhere — I mean, they do teach 'chemistry' but not the kind I'm talking about. It felt right and as soon as the videos went on YouTube and such, people were calling. This little GENE SIMMONS BAND never tried to be KISS… It was just a little bit of fun and stuff. Now all of a sudden, we're headlining festivals in the Czech Republic, Canada, Germany… It's crazy."

KISS played the final concert of its "End Of The Road" farewell tour on December 2, 2023 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

In September 1999, CREED — a then-rising rock band from Tallahassee, Florida — released its sophomore album, "Human Clay". Full of anthemic hits, including "Higher", "What If", "Are You Ready?" and the Grammy-winning "With Arms Wide Open", "Human Clay" propelled CREED (Scott Stapp, Mark Tremonti, Brian Marshall and Scott Phillips) to the top of the Billboard charts, going on to become one of the best-selling albums of all time. Now, 25 years later, CREED celebrates the anniversary of the diamond-certified album with a bonus-filled reissue. Arriving August 16, the deluxe 2-CD release features the newly remastered original album, plus a wealth of bonus material, including a complete, never-before-heard concert recording, captured in San Antonio, Texas in 1999. A deluxe digital edition of the album also features six additional bonus tracks, including alternate versions of "Higher" and "With Arms Wide Open", and a cover of THE DOORS classic "Roadhouse Blues" featuring THE DOORS guitarist and founding member Robby Krieger (recorded live at Woodstock '99). Fans who pre-save the album today can stream or download an advance three-track EP, which offers "With Arms Wide Open (Live)" plus a rare acoustic performance of the same track and the newly remastered album version. All formats can be pre-saved/pre-ordered at this location.

The original 11-track album can also be found on a series of limited-edition two-LP pressings, available on color vinyl for the first time, including gray smoke (available wide),black-and-gray splatter (exclusively via the official CREED store),orange smoke (Walmart),red smoke (Barnes & Noble),gray opaque (Revolver),and black-and-gold marble (Spotify Fans First).

To gear up for the reunion, the band is remastering their iconic music videos in HD. Head to CREED's official YouTube channel to watch the newly restored videos for "With Arms Wide Open" and "Higher", and more special announcements will be made in the near future.

Released in September 1999, "Human Clay" cemented CREED as certified superstars, debuting at No.1 on the Billboard 200, where it remained for a record-breaking 104 weeks. The album's first single, "Higher", spent a whopping 57 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 7, and topping the Mainstream Rock and Modern Rock charts for 17 weeks. The two-times-platinum single "With Arms Wide Open" became CREED's first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 — a spot it held for four weeks — and earned the band a Grammy for "Best Rock Song" and a nod for "Best Rock Vocal Performance".

"Human Clay" has sold over 11 million copies in the U.S. alone, achieving a rare diamond certification by the RIAA. In 2009, it ranked at No. 5 on Billboard's "200 Albums Of The Decade" roundup. Today, it remains one of the best-selling albums of all time in the U.S., while it has sold over 20 million copies worldwide.

Scott Stapp says: "Twenty-five years ago, we could have never guessed we'd be celebrating 'Human Clay''s lasting impact while embarking on a whole new chapter together in 2024. Then and now, it's the fans who've embraced these songs and found a deeper connection to them as they've progressed in their lives. Now, we're reconnecting with these songs like it's the first time and seeing the impact on a whole new generation."

"Human Clay (Deluxe Edition)" track listing (2-CD, Digital)

Disc 1

01. Are You Ready?
02. What If
03. Beautiful
04. Say I
05. Wrong Way
06. Faceless Man
07. Never Die
08. With Arms Wide Open
09. Higher
10. Wash Away Those Years
11. Inside Us All
12. With Arms Wide Open (Strings Version)
13. Young Grow Old
14. To Whom It May Concern
15. Is This The End?
16. Roadhouse Blues (Live) #
17. I'm Eighteen #
18. Higher (Radio Edit) #
19. With Arms Wide Open (Single Version) #
20. What If (Radio Edit) #
21. With Arms Wide Open (Acoustic Version) #

Disc 2

01. Are You Ready? (Live) *
02. Ode (Live) *
03. Torn (Live) *
04. Beautiful (Live) *
05. Illusion (Live) *
06. Say I (Live) *
07. My Own Prison (Live) *
08. What If (Live) *
09. With Arms Wide Open (Live) *
10. Faceless Man (Live) *
11. What's This Life For (Live) *
12. One (Live) *
13. Higher (Live) *

Live from San Antonio, TX - 11/4/1999

* previously unreleased
# Expanded digital album only

"Human Clay" track listing (2-LP)

Side A

01. Are You Ready?
02. What If
03. Beautiful

Side B

01. Say I
02. Wrong Way
03. Faceless Man

Side C

01. Never Die
02. With Arms Wide Open
03. Higher

Side D

01. Wash Away Those Years
02. Inside Us All

With more than 53 million albums sold worldwide, CREED remains one of modern rock's most successful acts. Now, 30 years into their incredible journey, CREED is bigger than ever. In late 2023, the Texas Rangers made "Higher" their unofficial anthem, as it spurred them to their first World Series win. Earlier this year, the song appeared in a high-profile Paramount+ Super Bowl commercial, while a NASCAR Daytona 500 campaign also incorporated the hit single. Along the way, CREED has gained a new generation of fans, thanks to countless TikTok videos that feature their songs. The band will make their return to network television on Monday, June 17 when they perform their classic hit "Higher" on "Good Morning America" and "My Sacrifice" on "GMA3".

Last summer, after an 11-year hiatus, CREED announced their long-awaited reunion — returning to the stage for the first time in April 2024 at the sold-out Summer Of '99 cruise and Summer Of '99 And Beyond cruise. In May, meanwhile, the band’s multiplatinum-selling "Greatest Hits" collection made its wide debut on vinyl (via Craft),this month landing the collection back into the Billboard Top 200 (currently No. 166, in a list of the most consumed albums in the U.S.),as well as hitting Top Hard Rock & Alternative Albums (No.48),Top Alternative Albums (No. 21),and moving up the Top Hard Rock Albums rankings (No. 11). Originally issued in 2004, the 14-track compilation spans the band's first three albums (1997's "My Own Prison", 1999's "Human Clay" and 2001's "Weathered"). In the months ahead, fans can catch the band on their "Summer Of '99" tour, running from July through September, where they'll be joined by the likes of 3 DOORS DOWN, FINGER ELEVEN, SWITCHFOOT, FUEL, BIG WRECK and DAUGHTRY. The band will be heading into arenas this November and December on the "Are You Ready?" tour with 3 DOORS DOWN and MAMMOTH WVH in the U.S. and MAMMOTH WVH and FINGER ELEVEN in Canada.

REFUSED frontman Dennis Lyxzén has suffered a "massive" heart attack, forcing the cancelation of the band's scheduled performance Friday (June 14) at Stockholm, Sweden's Rosendal Garden Party.

The 51-year-old Swedish musician shared the news earlier today on Instagram, writing: "So this morning I had a massive heart attack at my hotel room. It's was extremely painful and wildly scary.

"Thanks the the wonderful doctors and nurses at the Uppsala hospital I'm still around to fight another day.

"Under the circumstances I feel ok. Sore and tired and really shook up.

"I real really hate cancelling show but the doctor said no rock for a couple of weeks. Which means that the @refused show at @rosendalgardenparty is not happening. A complete bummer as I was really looking forward to it. But hopefully I/we will be able to make up to you soon.

"The good news is that with medication I can get back to my rocking self hopefully sooner than later.

"Life is weird and precious. Take care of each and tell your loved ones that you love them."

When REFUSED's participation in Rosendal Garden Party was first announced in March, the show was being billed as the band's "final festival" show in their home country.

Rosendal Garden Party will include headlining performances from THE CARDIGANS, M.I.A. and MASSIVE ATTACK. Also scheduled to appear are Grace Jones, TURNSTILE, RAYE, SAINT LEVANT and THE HEAVY.

Formed in Umeå, Sweden in 1991, REFUSED is one of the most influential rock bands of the early '00s. Artists as diverse as LINKIN PARK, RISE AGAINST, STEVE AOKI, PARAMORE, THURSDAY, THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN, BLINK-182 and AFI have been cited the band as being a fundamental influence on their musical styles. "The Shape Of Punk To Come" has become a cultural touchstone for the entire post-hardcore generation as the year zero of stylistic genre-bending — utilizing electronics, jazz and slick production for the first time, and their reputation tent-poled by politically radical lyrics and solidified by their energetic live shows to spread their message.

After a 14-year pause, the band reunited in 2012, playing much-anticipated shows like mainstream festival Coachella and were subsequently awarded the "Special Prize for Music Exports" by the Swedish Ministry of Trade in 2013. In 2015, they released their fourth studio album "Freedom", which was recorded with Nick Launay (NICK CAVE AND THE BAD SEEDS, KILLING JOKE),while also turning to Swedish pop/producer Shellback, whose credits include Taylor Swift and Britney Spears, for the lead single "Elektra". In late 2019, their fifth full-length studio album, "War Music", was released to massive critical acclaim. A five-song EP, "The Malignant Fire", followed a year later.

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A post shared by Dennis Lyxzén (@dennislyxzen)

Formed in London in 1976, THE DAMNED became one of the most groundbreaking and influential bands coming out of the '70s British punk rock scene. Their debut single "New Rose" (1976) is considered the first punk single to be ever released in the U.K.

Throughout their impressive 45-plus-year career (and counting),THE DAMNED have experimented with various musical styles, incorporating elements of gothic rock, psychedelia, and new wave into their sound.

Even after almost half a century (and numerous lineup changes, with Dave Vanian being the only constant member),eleven studio albums and several U.K. chart singles, THE DAMNED have no intention of cutting back and are still recording new music and earning an ever-expanding fan base fueled by legendary live shows.

In October 2020, over 40 years after the founding members parted ways, THE DAMNED announced a series of reunion shows with the original lineup consisting of Dave Vanian (vocals),Brian James (guitar),Captain Sensible (bass) and Rat Scabies (drums). However, due to the pandemic, they were forced to postpone the shows until 2022.

November 3, 2022, saw the band performing at the fully packed O2 Apollo in Manchester, U.K., delivering an energetic 21-song set drawn from the first two albums, the 1977's "Damned Damned Damned" and "Music For Pleasure", the only albums to feature the four founding members.

This legendary reunion show is now becoming available for the very first time worldwide on September 13, 2024. "AD 2022 - Live In Manchester" will be made available digitally for download and streaming, in all traditional stores on 180g black double vinyl, packed in a premium-quality gatefold jacket, as well as on a limited double-CD+DVD deluxe edition, featuring the video of the full Manchester show on DVD and the reunion show in Birmingham as exclusive audio bonus on CD 2.

Already today, June 13, 2024, sees the release of the live track taken from the intoxicating performance at the O2 Apollo in Manchester: "New Rose" will be instantly available as digital download and stream and when pre-ordering the album "AD 2022 - Live In Manchester". The single release is being accompanied by the launch of the music video on the earMUSIC YouTube channel.

THE DAMNED's most recent studio album, "Darkadelic" (their twelfth, released last year),has received rave reviews from the media worldwide. In the United States, the iconic rockers currently grace the cover of the latest issue of The Big Takeover (issue No. 94). They were also featured on the June/July 2023 issue of Goldmine, with the magazine declaring the album "damn near perfect". Glide avowed, "THE DAMNED achieved something so many bands have attempted and fallen short of, they created an album with so much depth and impressive musicianship that it forces us to rethink when their "glory days" really occurred or if they ever ended." They also received feature coverage in such major U.S. outlets as Spin, Paste and Billboard.

"AD 2022 - Live In Manchester" track listing:

CD 1:

O2 Apollo Manchester November 3, 2022

01. I Feel Alright
02. You Take My Money
03. Help
04. Born To Kill
05. Stretcher Case
06. Feel The Pain
07. I Fall
08. Fan Club
09. Alone
10. Fish
11. 1 Of The 2
12. Problem Child
13. Neat Neat Neat
14. Stab Yor Back
15. Sick Of Being Sick
16. See Her Tonite
17. You Know
18. New Rose
19. Pills
20. The Last Time
21. So Messed Up

CD 2:

O2 Academy Birmingham November 5, 2022

01. I Feel Alright
02. You Take My Money
03. Help
04. Born To Kill
05. Stretcher Case
06. Feel The Pain
07. I Fall
08. Fan Club
09. Alone
10. Fish
11. 1 Of The 2
12. Problem Child
13. Neat Neat Neat
14. Stab Yor Back
15. Sick Of Being Sick
16. See Her Tonite
17. You Know
18. So Messed Up
19. New Rose
20. Pills
21. The Last Time

DVD as part of limited 2CD+DVD package: featuring full live show filmed at the O2 Apollo in Manchester on November 3, 2022.