THE END MACHINE, the collaborative project featuring former DOKKEN members, guitarist George Lynch and bassist Jeff Pilson, has released the official music video for the song "Hell Or High Water". The track is taken from THE END MACHINE third album, "The Quantum Phase", which arrived on March 8 via Frontiers Music Srl.

"The Quantum Phase" signals a notable change in THE END MACHINE personnel. Singer Robert Mason has officially parted ways with the group, paving the way for Girish Pradhan, the rising superstar vocalist known for his work under the moniker GIRISH AND THE CHRONICLES and, more recently, with JOEL HOEKSTRA'S 13 and FIRSTBORNE. The addition of Pradhan to the band is a testament to the keen discernment of Serafino Perugino, president, and founder of Frontiers Music Srl. Perugino, who serves as the executive producer for THE END MACHINE, recognized the incredible talent and potential in Pradhan and brought him to the attention of the band.

Pradhan comments on "Hell Or High Water": "I still remember how excited I got when I first heard this riff. I imagined that this could be our way of paying homage to the legendary DEEP PURPLE musically.

"The song talks about the adrenaline rush, the energy, and everything involved in performing live and touring. It's about how one can kick negativity out of the window by witnessing a kick-ass hard rock band live.

"Needless to say, I had tons of fun writing and recording this and I hope the energy I put in there reaches our fans!"

Established in 2018, THE END MACHINE released its eponymous debut album, "The End Machine", in 2019, bringing early acclaim for not only contemporary production and a modern attitude, but also their perfectly crafted songs, paying homage to their roots and the music that they love. This attitude and talent was equally on display with their 2021 sophomore album, "Phase2".

In delivering 2024's "The Quantum Phase", THE END MACHINE has not only surpassed expectations but has penned the record of their lives. With each note and lyric, they have exceeded their own artistic aspirations, collectively crafting the album they always wished they had written. This monumental work stands as a testament to THE END MACHINE's evolution, showcasing not only their musical prowess but also their unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of their creative expression.

More than a year ago, Lynch told MetalSucks about the upcoming THE END MACHINE album: "Girish Pradhan… is unbelievable. We loved Robert Mason [who sang on the first two THE END MACHINE albums], and he's an incredible singer, but we felt it was time for a little bit of a change. So, of all the records I'm working on — and there's a lot — I'm most excited about this next END MACHINE album. It's really powerful, and some of the tracks are downright scary good."

Asked what it is about the upcoming THE END MACHINE album that has him most excited, George said: "When me and Jeff get together, we're just a two-headed songwriting monster. It's crazy, but we finish each other's sentences and understand each other musically. I think that because we've been doing the same thing for so many decades, we know exactly what we're trying to do, but now we have a much better idea of how to get there than we used to. And when I work with other people — and I've worked with some great people — I don't have that connection with any other people like I do with Jeff. It's everything, from riffs, guitar sounds, and composition to putting that together. We're very attuned to each other, and our skill sets complement each other very well, so working on this record is an absolute joy, and it's got me very excited."

"The Quantum Phase" track listing:

01. Black Hole Extinction
02. Silent Winter
03. Killer Of The Night
04. Hell Or High Water
05. Stand Up
06. Burning Man
07. Shattered Glass Heart
08. Time
09. Hunted
10. Stranger In The Mirror
11. Into The Blazing Sun

Produced By: Jeff Pilson for Pilsound Music Inc.
Studio: Pilsound Studios, Santa Clarita, California
Recorded By: Jeff Pilson and Girish Pradhan
Additional engineering: Olivia Pilson
Mixed By: Alessandro Del Vecchio
Mastered By: Alessandro Del Vecchio

Band Members:

George Lynch – Gutar
Girish Pradhan – Vocals
Steve Brown – Drums
Jeff Pilson - Bass

FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH has released the the digital deluxe edition of "AfterLife", the band's critically acclaimed ninth studio album, via Better Noise Music. The deluxe version includes the original 12 tracks recorded with the band's longtime producer Kevin Churko (OZZY OSBOURNE) in addition to four bonus tracks: three acoustic versions of the album's songs "The End", "Judgement Day" and "Thanks For Asking" plus a brand new song, "This Is The Way", featuring the late rapper DMX. An official music video for "This Is The Way (Featuring DMX)", which can be seen below, is directed by none other than highly influential filmmaker Hype Williams, a longtime friend and close collaborator of the late DMX. Hailed by The New York Times in 2024 as "The Nineties Wunderkind," Hype Williams is known for his seminal work with luminaries like Tupac, Wu-Tang Clan and Jay-Z, among others.

"Music is meant to be universal and without boundaries, and it starts at the top with us, the artists," says FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH guitarist Zoltan Bathory. "We have always embraced the mixing of genres, whether it be the remake of LL Cool J's 'Mama Said Knock You Out' featuring Tech N9ne as a guest, or our collaboration with blues warrior Kenny Wayne Shepherd, country star Brantley Gilbert, and Brian May, the legendary guitarist of QUEEN, on the song 'Blue On Black'.

"The idea of collaborating with DMX had been in discussion for years, and it was a long and winding road to turn this particular item on our wish list into reality. He was a lyrical warrior, a true original who spoke his mind incorruptibly. We have always viewed DMX as 'the metalhead of hip-hop' because of his aggressive, raw, and untamed style. He growled and snarled, aiming to rattle some cages–an attitude we share, as FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH has always been drawn to the fearless and the real. It made all the sense in the world, but today this is more than just a song; it's a salute to a legend, a way to honor DMX's memory."

When playing the song for other hip-hop legends, DMC of RUN-D.M.C., one of the originals to do it first with "Walk This Way" with AEROSMITH, said: "The sound of the music, what Ivan [Moody, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH singer] is singing about, and what X is talking about, is how X lived his life. The struggle, the dark with the light, the bad with the good, the pain with the joy. This song is very emotional, very musical; it's very well rounded."

"AfterLife: Deluxe" track listing:

01. Welcome To The Circus
02. AfterLife
03. Times Like These
04. Roll Dem Bones
05. Pick Up Behind You
06. Judgment Day
07. IOU
08. Thanks For Asking
09. Blood And Tar
10. All I Know
11. Gold Gutter
12. The End
13. This Is The Way (feat. DMX)
14. Judgment Day (acoustic)
15. The End (acoustic)
16. Thanks For Asking (acoustic)

FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH will be headed to Europe this summer on a headlining tour with special guests ICE NINE KILLS from May 23 through mid-July. The jaunt will see the group on the main stages of many of Europe's biggest festivals, including Graspop Metal Meeting (Belgium),Metalfest Open Air Plzen (Czech Republic) and With Full Force Festival (Germany). The band will also continue to join METALLICA on their stadium shows in Germany, Austria, Poland, Denmark, Finland and Spain this summer before returning to the U.S. for a headlining fall run with MARILYN MANSON and SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL from August 2 to September 19.

"AfterLife" is FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH's first album with its latest addition, renowned British virtuoso Andy James, who replaced Jason Hook in 2020. James was previously featured on "Broken World", a song that was included on the second installment of FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH's greatest-hits collection, "A Decade Of Destruction – Volume 2", which came out in the fall of 2020.

FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH played its first show as the support act for METALLICA on the "M72" tour on August 6, 2023 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH was originally supposed to support METALLICA on several European shows in the spring of 2022 but ended up canceling the dates in order to allow Moody to fully recover from a hernia surgery.

Photo credit: Travis Shinn

BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION, the supergroup featuring legendary vocalist/bassist Glenn Hughes (DEEP PURPLE, BLACK SABBATH),guitarist Joe Bonamassa, drummer Jason Bonham (LED ZEPPELIN) and keyboardist Derek Sherinian (DREAM THEATER, ALICE COOPER, BILLY IDOL),has released a new single, "Red Sun". The track is taken from BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION's highly anticipated fifth studio album, "V", due on June 14.

Available now on all major streaming platforms, "Red Sun" showcases the collective genius of Hughes and Bonamassa, both in its powerful lyrics and profound musical composition. The song is a lyrical journey through the depths of the soul, echoing the struggles and revelations that come with life's challenges. The track's rich narrative and compelling melody are enhanced by the band's signature blend of hard rock and blues, marking yet another milestone in their storied career.

"This band allows me to embrace all of it," comments Bonamassa. "It's funny because the four musicians up here — everybody brings a certain thing to this that’s very specific. Every part is irreplaceable. For me, it's about playing old-style rock guitar, loud."

Hughes adds: "We make music for the five of us. We make music that we love and like, hoping it registers with everyone else. We don't make it for record companies, or this guy or that guy." Sherinian credits producer Kevin Shirley for keeping the band's creative energies focused, adding, "We got to give Kevin Shirley massive credit because he controls. He keeps it all flowing."

"Red Sun" is a profound piece in BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION's discography, showcasing the band's growth and mutual respect. It stands as a beacon of their shared philosophy — to create music that is authentic, heartfelt, and a reflection of their collective experiences and musical prowess.

Produced by Shirley, "V" marks a monumental chapter in the band's storied career, embodying a renewed spirit and an evolution of their unmistakable sound. Shirley captures the essence of the band's journey, stating: "For a band that started out as a collection of the best practitioners of their instruments, they very quickly found a unique sound. This time around, it has more purpose, the riffs are tougher, and there are hooks! Yes, hooks! It's the most cohesive record, full of soul and grit, and I think this is the one that's going to be the benchmark for BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION." Glenn agrees: "In my opinion, we had the best time recording this record at Sunset Sound in Hollywood, tons of fun and a magical recording. Meet you inside the music.”

"Stay Free", the lead single, is a powerhouse track that blends hard rock's raw energy with a heavy dose of blues, channeling the spirit of legends like AC/DC and LED ZEPPELIN. It sets the tone for what fans can expect from "V" — a testament to the band's dynamic synergy and creative evolution.

Since their debut in 2010, BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION has delivered a series of critically acclaimed albums, each showcasing the group's ability to fuse British blues-rock with American soul in a way that captivates audiences worldwide. Their return with "V" and the single "Stay Free" reaffirms their status as rock royalty and showcases their growth as musicians and storytellers.

Shirley's insight into the recording process highlights the unique chemistry and camaraderie within the band. "When we convened in 2023 to start recording the album 'V', it really was like picking up the day after the most recent gig," Shirley reflects. "The camaraderie is immediately evident. Once they start playing, everyone is deadly serious, and the music sounds like this band, and nothing else sounds like it."

"V" is a milestone that celebrates the journey, talent, and vision of BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION. As the band embarks on this new chapter, they invite fans old and new to join them in experiencing the depth and power of "V" and the electrifying energy of "Stay Free".

"V" track Listing:

01. Enlighten
02. Stay Free
03. Red Sun
04. Restless
05. Letting Go
06. Skyway
07. You're Not Alone
08. Love And Faith
09. Too Far Gone
10. The Open Road

During an appearance on an August 2023 episode of SiriusXM's "Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk", Hughes stated about the musical direction of the new BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION material: "It sounds like BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION. There's not too many left turns, there's nothing happening that's weirdly different. We followed a vibe of the first four albums, so it it's an extension, but it's really a progression, if you can call it a progression. Everybody's playing out of their skin. The vibe in the camp has never been so friendly and fun. It's a really, really great vibe in the band. And we had a great time at Sunset Sound [studios] in Hollywood. And I can't wait for you to hear it."

Bonamassa told "Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk" about the new BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION album: "The thing about BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION, whether you like the way we sound or not, when we all get together, it has a very specific thing that it does. Everybody brings a very specific thing to the table, and it's a special band."

According to Joe, he brought the BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION members back together to make the follow-up to "BCCIV", which was released in September 2017 and marked BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION's first studio effort since 2013's "Afterglow". "I was the one that kind of initiated the text, be, like, 'Hey, is there anybody interested in doing a fifth one?'" he said. "And Derek got back to me. Jason got back to me pretty quickly. And Glenn called me and said, 'I can't do anything until this DEAD DAISIES situation goes one way or the next.' And I said, 'Fair enough.' So when Glenn left THE DEAD DAISIES [in 2022], that was kind of the green light for us to get back together."

Regarding the songwriting process for BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION's fifth album and how it compared to that on the band's previous efforts, Joe said: "This was the same. I went over to Glenn's house about six times and we hashed out some ideas — pretty rough, loose ideas. Nothing in stone. And so I had a playlist on my phone, voice memos, BCC 1 through 10. And that was it. So, so day one, we just [said], 'Okay, let's start with BCC 1.' And we sat in the courtyard at Sunset Sound — they have this really nice courtyard with a bunch of chairs — and we sat out there with an acoustic guitar and a couple of things and we just bashed out the arrangement. We were, like, 'Okay, that's cool.' We went in, played it three or four times and that was it. Nobody charted anything; we just kind of memorized it and did it. And we would go into the control room, listen a little bit, maybe tweak something, but once it fired up and after the second day, we really hit our stride, going, 'Okay, the band's back.' 'Cause we hadn't played together in six years."

As for the recording process for the new BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION disc, Joe said: "There's not a lot of overdubs. I rarely double the guitars, 'cause Glenn's bass sound is so big and distorted, you know what I mean? It's, like, why do I need to double the guitar? Same thing with Derek. It's almost like playing in the band FREE. All of the sound comes from the four of us. And Jason takes up a huge amount of bandwidth; he's such a big drummer."

In a September 2022 interview with Andy Hall of the Des Moines, Iowa radio station Lazer 103.3, Bonamassa stated about what it is about a "band situation" that appeals to him, considering he has spent most of his career as a solo artist: "I like nothing more than to be a member of a band and playing guitar. I don't have to front it; I don't have to sing all the time. And it's a lot less pressure than being the front person. Being the person in front is a special skillset. You have to be an entertainer. You can't just sit up there and stare at your guitar and go, 'Wow. Look, I can play guitar pretty good.' That's not gonna fill the theater. You have to put on a show. And to put on a show requires being an entertainer. So being in a band, the sum of the parts is greater than the single entity. So this thing where Glenn co-fronts BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION, I can just sit back and play rhythm guitar and watch him do his thing. He's a legend. And then conversely, Glenn doesn't have to sing all night; I'll sing three or four [songs]. So we kind of spread out the whole workload a little bit."

BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION's inception took place when Hughes and Bonamassa fused their styles on stage in Los Angeles for an explosive performance at Guitar Center's King Of The Blues event. With the help and guidance of Shirley, they further added to their rock lineage by recruiting Bonham and Sherinian.

In a 2017 interview, Hughes talked about the chemistry between the BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION members, especially since all the musicians have had successful careers prior to launching the group.

"This band was meant to be," Glenn said. "It was formed out of a friendship with Joe and I. We got the [other] guys to come in, and it's always been a strong brotherhood. And we're just very lucky and fortunate to have met. I've known Jason since he was [a kid]. I just think that these four guys in this band are the right guys to play in the band."

Photo by Rob Bondurant

DAUGHTRY has released the official music video for its latest single, "Pieces". The song is the second track to be made available from the band's upcoming EP, due later this year on Big Machine Label Group.

DAUGHTRY is the band fronted by Chris Daughtry and has been winning fans around the globe since he burst on the scene in 2006. The new single "Pieces" is a deeply personal song for Chris as it was written shortly after the loss of his mother and daughter. The evocative lyrics "I'll never get over it. It's hard to move on, but I'm learning to live with the pieces of me" are delivered with passion and is sure to be another chart-topping hit for the band.

"At some point in our lives, we will all experience trauma of some kind," explains Chris Daughtry. "Something that chips away at the essence of who we are. Sometimes it's an event so devastating that it shatters our reality and rips a hole through our soul. This is about finding the strength to pick up those broken pieces, face the darkness head on, and fight your way toward the light."

DAUGHTRY has plenty of touring planned for 2024 and will see the band play various headline dates while also sharing stages with BREAKING BENJAMIN, STAIND and CREED, among others, the rest of the year.

DAUGHTRY had previously reached No. 1 over the years on other Billboard airplay charts, including four on Adult Pop Airplay ("It's Not Over", "Home", "Feels Like Tonight" and "No Surprise"),one on Pop Airplay ("It's Not Over") and one on Adult Contemporary ("Home").

DAUGHTRY's latest album, 2021's "Dearly Beloved", debuted at No. 4 on the Top Hard Rock Albums chart and has earned 88,000 equivalent album units to date, according to Billboard.

DAUGHTRY's debut album, the self-titled "Daughtry", was the top-selling album of 2007 and was the fastest-selling rock debut album in SoundScan history. It was also nominated for four Grammy Awards and won four American Music Awards and seven Billboard Music Awards, including "Album Of The Year". Subsequent albums "Leave This Town" (2009),"Break The Spell" (2011) and "Baptized" (2013) have all gone platinum, with "Cage To Rattle" (2018) certified gold. "Dearly Beloved" marked a return to DAUGHTRY's rock roots and a return to the top of the rock charts with their singles "World On Fire", "Heavy Is The Crown" and "Changes Are Coming", each reaching the Top 10 on Billboard's Rock Airplay chart.

Photo credit: Darren Craig

The music world has been buzzing ever since it was announced that an extraordinary collection of musicians would be recreating in its entirety King Crimson’s 1969 prog rock classic, In The Court Of The Crimson King, including such luminaries as Todd Rundgren, Megadeth’s Chris Poland, Deep Purple's Ian Paice, Rainbow's Joe Lynn Turner, Dream Theater's James LaBrie, Cactus's Carmine Appice and others.


Among this elite group are two artists who are perhaps closest to the King’s inner circle, vocalist/guitarist Jakko M. Jakszyk and saxophonist/flautist Mel Collins, who together with Jakko’s son Django Jakszyk, have teamed up for a powerful new rendering of In The Court Of The Crimson King’s most haunting track, the enchanting "I Talk To The Wind".


Jakszyk and Collins are, in fact, long-time collaborators, having performed and recorded together numerous times in the hugely popular King Crimson offshoot 21st Century Schizoid Band as well as on Jakszyk’s solo albums. Their undeniable artistic chemistry shines through on this sumptuous track with Collins’s brilliant flute playing providing the perfect complement to Jakszyk’s otherworldly voice and guitar work with Django’s bass guitar rounding out the low end. It’s a thoroughly enchanting interplay between two artists who continue to keep the King Crimson legacy alive and well.




Stream/download the single here; listen below:





Set for release on April 19, Reimagining The Court Of The Crimson King unites an astounding mix of musical virtuosos and creative collaborators that’s as eclectic and far-reaching as King Crimson’s own noble cortege. Guests include all of those mentioned above plus current King Crimson vocalist/guitarist Jakko Jakszyk, Joe Lynn Turner, James LaBrie, Marty Friedman, and Carmine Appice. Adding to this stellar lineup are rock and prog giants such as Steve Hillage, known for his work with Gong, and Jah Wobble, the post-punk bass maestro and PIL & Eno collaborator; and the Hawkwind alumni trifecta of Alan Davey, Paul Rudolph, and Nik Turner, infusing the project with a cosmic touch!


This album is not just a tribute; it's a celebration and reinvention of a musical masterpiece, bringing together the past, present, and future of rock music. Don't miss this unparalleled musical journey.


Order the CD/Vinyl here; pre-order/pre-save the digital here.





Tracklisting:


"21st Century Schizoid Man" feat. Todd Rundgren, Arthur Brown, Mel Collins, Chris Poland & Ian Paice
"I Talk To The Wind" feat. Mel Collins, Django Jakszyk & Jakko M Jakszyk
"Epitaph" feat. Alan Davey, Paul Rudolph, Nik Turner, Adam Hamilton & Danny Faulkner
"Moonchild" feat. Joe Lynn Turner, Marty Friedman, Jah Wobble & Chester Thompson
"The Court Of The Crimson King" feat. James LaBrie, Carmine Appice & Steve Hillage


Bonus Tracks (CD only):


"21st Century Schizoid Man" feat. Arthur Brown, Brian Auger, Chris Poland & Ian Paice
"21st Century Schizoid Man" (Instrumental Version)


"21st Century Schizoid Man":

Gene Hoglan has shared the video below, featuring Death To All performing Death's "Zombie Ritual", originally featured on Death's 1987 album, Scream Bloody Gore. The footage was shot last month in Santiago, Chile.





Death To All is a unique opportunity for a new generation of metalheads to experience the genius of Death and Chuck Schuldiner first-hand.




Gene Hoglan says, "Death To All is really excited to be hitting the road on The Scream of Perserverance Tour with special guests Cryptopsy. The North American tour will bring three different, special and exciting shows encapsulating the two equally important eras of Death."


The Scream of Perserverance Tour features unique two-night stints in multiple cities, where the first night will be an old-school, brutal night featuring, in its entirety, the album which started the Death legacy, Scream Bloody Gore, as well as classic tunes from Leprosy and Spiritual Healing.


The second night will feature the finishing touch in Death’s history, The Sound of Perseverance, as well as timeless classics from the technical and more melodic era of Death, Human, Individual Thought Patterns and Symbolic.’Also, in certain cities, the sets will be From First To Last, where Death To All play the mightiest bangers from every Death album.


Gene Hoglan adds, "We’ll be joined by our good friends, the legendary Cryptopsy, who have some special plans of their own for this tour. Death To All is extremely pleased to be bringing these special nights to the fans of the one and only Chuck Schuldiner... as only Death To All can... his entire Death legacy! As Chuck liked to say, 'let the Metal flow.' You’ll want to catch every night possible.”


Cryptopsy shares, “Cryptopsy is very much looking forward to sharing the stage with the iconic and symbolic Death To All band! Since the tour will be hitting major US markets two nights back to back, we plan on giving the fans two unique setlists. One that consists of classic old school first generation Cryptopsy tracks and a second that’ll focus more on the newer generation. We are grateful for the opportunity to celebrate Death’s legacy alongside Death To All. We welcome you all to bear witness to this epic tour!”





The Scream Of Perseverance Tour dates:


May
18 - Milwaukee, WI - Milwaukee Metal Fest **
19 - Milwaukee, WI - Milwaukee Metal Fest *
21 - Columbus, OH - The King Of Clubs ***
22 - Philadelphia, PA - Theatre Of Living Arts ***
23 - New York City, NY - Gramercy Theatre *
24 - New York City, NY - Gramercy Theatre **
25 - Boston, MA - The Middle East *
26 - Boston, MA - The Middle East **
28 - Montreal, QC - Le National *
29 - Montreal, QC - Le National **
30 - Toronto, ON - Phoenix Concert Theatre *
31 - Toronto, ON - Phoenix Concert Theatre **


June
1 - London, ON - London Music Hall ***
2 - Detroit, MI - Magic Stick ***
4 - St. Paul, MN - Amsterdam Bar & Hall *
5 - St. Paul, MN - Amsterdam Bar & Hall **
7 - Lawrence, KS - The Granada ***
8 - Denver, CO - Oriental Theater *
9 - Denver, CO - Oriental Theater *
11- Salt Lake City, UT - Metro Music Hall ***
13 - Vancouver, BC - Rickshaw Theatre *
14 - Vancouver, BC - Rickshaw Theatre **
15 - Seattle, WA - The Crocodile *
16 - Seattle, WA - The Crocodile **
18 - Portland, OR - Hawthorne Theatre *
19 - Portland, OR - Hawthorne Theatre **
21- Berkeley, CA - Cornerstone *
22 - Berkeley, CA - Cornerstone **
23 - Santa Cruz, CA - The Catalyst ***
25 - San Diego, CA - Brick By Brick *
26 - San Diego, CA - Brick By Brick **
27 - Los Angeles, CA - The Regent Theater *
28 - Los Angeles, CA - The Regent Theater **
29 - Phoenix, AZ - The Nile Theater ***


* Scream Bloody Gore in its entirety plus old school Death classics from Leprosy and Spiritual Healing
** The Sound Of Perseverance in its entirety plus the new school Death classics from Human, Individual Thought Patterns and Symbolic
*** From First To Last - the Greatest classics from every Death album


VIP upgrades here.





Founded in 1984 by Chuck Schuldiner under the original name of Mantas in Altamonte Springs, Florida, Death was among the more widely known early pioneers of the Death metal sound, along with California’s Possessed. Inspired by Nasty Savage, Death was among the first bands in the Florida Death metal scene. In the late 80s, the band was both a part of and integral in defining the Death metal scene which gained international recognition with the release of albums by a number of area acts.


Death To All operates as a tribute band to the original Death, which dissolved in 2001 following the passing of the group’s founder and frontman Chuck Schuldiner. The backbone of Death To All is singer/guitarist Max Phelps (Exist, Cynic), drummer Gene Hoglan (Dark Angel, Testament, Dethklok), bass beast Steve DiGiorgio (Testament, Sadus) and Bobby Koelble (Death).


Here's a taste of the live magic... watch "The Philosopher":





(Photo - Alex Solca)

With two powerful singles "Alda" and "Myrkur" already released, Iceland’s Drungi is set to unleash their debut album Hamfarir Hugans. Drungi's commitment to exploring mental health struggles through their music is evident throughout the eight-track album, which presents bleak topics with haunting music that is inspired by the dramatic landscape of the island. The band hopes that fans will consider this release worth the wait, and find it deeply satisfying. It is a ride filled with Icelandic lyrics, heaviness, and nature-inspired lyrical content. 


With the album they are planning a local tour and comment on what to expect:


“We put on a show, the majority of the band, including drummer, bassist, vocalist and guitarist have a background in theatrics and we bring those talents into our shows giving our audience an immersive show where they get pulled into the band. Be it the bassist walking around the venue or the singer pulling the audience closer, the people will find a great show with Drungi.”




With Hamfarir Hugans, Drungi wanted to create an album that speaks to the heart of those grappling with mental health challenges. Their music reflects the harsh beauty of Icelandic nature, intertwined with the raw, emotional realities many face daily. Throughout each of the exclusively Icelandic language tracks has been poetically inspired by folklore, Icelandic nature, and the mental sufferings that so many of today’s people suffer from suicidal thoughts, depression, anger, schizophrenia, etc.


The album was produced, mixed, and mastered by Stephen Lockhart and the album artwork, a merger between the mind and Icelandic nature, was done by bassist Magnús Addi Ólafsson and guitarist Rúnar Gauti Gunnarsson. Self-reflection and powerful music await in “Hamfarir Hugans”, which is recommended for fans of Black Sabbath, Gojira, and Manowar.


BraveWords is hosting the full stream premiere of Hamfarir Hugans; listen below!


Hamfarir Hugans by Drungi


Hamfarir Hugans is due out on April 5, 2024, and is available for preorder on Bandcamp.





Tracklisting:


“Alda”
“Þoka”
“Ófærð”
“Skriða”
“Frost”
“Skjálfti”
“Kvika”
“Myrkur”


“Alda” video:





“Myrkur” video:





(Photo – Hvergiland Photgraphy)

Former King Crimson members Adrian Belew and Tony Levin have banded together with guitar virtuoso Steve Vai and explosive Tool drummer Danny Carey for the first time to create Beat, a creative reinterpretation of the three iconic 80s King Crimson albums - Discipline, Beat, and Three Of A Perfect Pair. Beat will be performing the music of 80s King Crimson on tour.


Vai has shared the following message alonhg with the photo above:


"Here with Father Robert Fripp at McCabe's Guitar Shop 3.3.24 where he gave an enlightening talk with David Singleton to a packed house of enthusiastic ears, mine being a pair of them. I was fortunate he was in town and accepted to meet with me. I respect and admire this man tremendously. Since 1969, his brilliant musical mind reinvented a music genre twice. His fiercely disciplined and unique guitar technique is untouchable to all but him and he is a marvel.




We had a lovely chat about BEAT and I was relieved and thrilled to know he gave it his blessing, and even suggested the name. When I asked him what he had thought when he heard I was in the band, he replied 'You are the only one that can play my guitar parts.' I found myself in a rare state of gob-smacked speechlessness because I know that nobody can play Robert's guitar parts like him."


https://blabbermouth.net/news/watch-4k-video-of-judas-priests-krakow-concert-during-2024-metal-masters-tour





The vision for this undertaking emanated from initial dialogue between Angelo Bundini aka Scrote and Adrian Belew. Tour Producer Bundini recalls, “When Adrian called me to help bring his idea to fruition, I immediately thought it best to focus on the 80s albums: Discipline, Beat, and Three Of A Perfect Pair. These three records famously marked Adrian and Tony's entry into King Crimson. Their fluid, melodic virtuosity, and Fripp's and Bruford's dramatic precision created a totally unique, dynamic push and pull that would influence nearly every rock musician and/or band going forward for years, if not decades, to come.”  


Both a meet & greet and a VIP tour package will be available for purchase. The M&G includes one premium ticket in the first five rows, early entry, pre-show meet & greet, personal photograph captured, limited edition autographed poster, Beat challenge coin, tote bag, an exclusive merch item, and an official laminate and lanyard. There is limited availability with pricing set at $200.00. For the VIP tour package, buyers will receive one premium reserved seat in the first 15 rows, a limited edition Beat tour poster autographed, the challenge coin, an exclusive tour merch item, and a commemorative laminate and lanyard. Availability is limited at $100.00.


Ticket links at beat-tour.com. Dates and a video trailer can be found below.





Tour dates:


September
12 - San Jose, CA - San Jose Civic
13 - Napa, CA - Blue Note Napa Summer Sessions at Meritage Resort
14 - Los Angeles, CA - The United Theater on Broadway
15 - Anaheim, CA - City National Grove of Anaheim
17 - San Diego, CA - Humphrey’s Concerts
18 - Phoenix, AZ - Celebrity Theatre
20 - Austin, TX - The Paramount Theatre
21 - Houston, TX - Bayou Music Centre
22 - Dallas, TX - Majestic Theatre
24 - Atlanta, GA - The Eastern
26 - Fort Lauderdale, FL - The Parker
27 - Orlando, FL - Hard Rock Live
28 - Clearwater, FL - Ruth Eckerd Hall
29 - Charleston, SC - Charleston Music Hall


October
1 - Charlotte, NC - Knight Theater
2 - Durham, NC - Carolina Theatre of Durham / Fletcher Hall
4 - Washington, DC - Warner Theatre
5 - New York, NY - Beacon Theatre
6 - Glenside, PA - Keswick Theatre
8 - Richmond, VA - Carpenter Theater in Dominion Energy Center
9 - Red Bank, NJ - Count Basie Center
11 - Boston, MA - Shubert Theatre
12 - Hampton Beach, NH - Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom
14 - Halifax, NS - Rebecca Cohen Auditorium
15 - Moncton, NB - Casino New Brunswick
17 - Montreal, QC - Theatre Maisonneuve
18 - Toronto, ON - Massey Hall
19 - Rochester, NY - Kodak Center
21 - Albany, NY - The Egg
22 - Greensburg, PA - Palace Theatre
23 - Reading, PA - Santander Performing Arts Center
25 - Cleveland, OH  - Agora Theatre
26 - Cincinnati, OH - Taft Theatre
27 - Royal Oak, MI - Royal Oak Music Theatre
28 - Nashville, TN - Ryman Auditorium
30 - Indianapolis, IN - Murat Theatre


November
1 - Chicago, IL - Copernicus Center
2 - Milwaukee, WI - Pabst Theatre
3 - Madison, WI - Orpheum Theater
4 - Minneapolis, MN - State Theatre
6 - Denver, CO - Paramount Theatre
8 - Las Vegas, NV - The Theater at Virgin Hotels


Adrian Belew - “The 1981 through 1984 King Crimson created a music all its own. Timeless. Beautiful. Complex. Fierce. For the fans who lived through it then, and the ones who never got to witness it, our aim is to bring it to life again. A monumental task but we’re going for it!  There are not enough exclamation points to express my excitement!”


Steve Vai - “Being a part of this ensemble is an extraordinary privilege and opportunity to perform some of the most beloved, timeless, and monumental music of the 80’s (and beyond) with truly inspired musicians. This music resonates deeply with me. Adrian, Tony and Danny are unique musicians with an otherworldly insight into presenting rich musical complexities in a very accessible way, and I am looking forward to searching each other’s musical minds in real time on stage. I’m sure sparks will fly.” He continues, “Father Robert Fripp is one of our historical geniuses. His highly specific and exceptionally brilliant guitar technique is studied and revered. His contribution to the quality of my musical life, and so many others is supreme. I can assure the fans of KC that I will be putting my best foot forward to respect this great music with the care and intensity it deserves. Did I say ‘sparks will fly?’”


Tony Levin - “This is going to be quite a tour. Revisiting some of my favorite music is a treat in itself, but in company of this stellar lineup, I expect to have my musical butt kicked! And it’s also great that we’re not just playing a few shows, we’re hitting it hard. So, Road Dogs are coming to your area soon.”


Danny Carey - “I am very excited to share the stage with three of my favorite musicians on the planet. Tony, Steve and Adrian have always been a source of inspiration for me since the beginning of my career, and now to be able to share a bit of my musical journey with them is a dream come true. There’s nothing better to make some sparks fly and light a fire under your ass than getting out of your musical comfort zone, and I can’t think of any other three guys I’d rather do this with.  I think I can speak for all of us when I say I hope all of our fans are as excited as we are about this tour.”

Judas Priest's "Devil's Child", taken from the Screaming For Vengeance album, has been given the bluegrass treatment by Postmodern Jukebox vocalist Robyn Adele Anderson and her band. Check out this new rendition of the song below.


Robyn: "In honor of their new album that came out last month, I’ve decided to cover my very first Judas Priest song! But of course I had do a little word-play based mashup. Enjoy!"







Judas Priest is back on the Billboard charts this week with their latest album, Invincible Shield, reports Forbes. The set returns them to a number of rankings that they’ve hit before... but it also helps them appear on another list that somehow, they’ve never made it to - even though it would seem to be a great home for them.


On this week’s edition of the Hot Hard Rock Songs - Billboard’s ranking of the most-consumed hard rock tunes in the US - Judas Priest scores a very important hit. The title track from their new album, “Invincible Shield”, debuts at #16.


Shockingly, “Invincible Shield” marks Judas Priest’s first placement on the Hot Hard Rock Songs chart. That is due largely to the fact that the tally is relatively new - at least newer than most of the band’s biggest hits.


Judas Priest has now reached just two of Billboard’s rock charts - excluding radio lists. They’ve also sent a pair of cuts to the Hard Rock Digital Song Sales ranking. That small number includes their first top 10 hit on that purchase-only list, “Panic Attack,” which reached #10 last year.


Read more at Forbes.


Invincible Shield can be ordered here.





Tracklisting:


"Panic Attack"
"The Serpent And The King"
"Invincible Shield"
"Devil In Disguise"
"Gates Of Hell"
"Crown Of Horns"
"As God Is My Witness"
"Trial By Fire"
"Escape From Reality"
"Sons Of Thunder"
"Giants In The Sky"


Deluxe edition bonus tracks:


"Fight Of Your Life"
"Vicious Circle"
"The Lodger"


"Invincible Shield" video:





"Panic Attack" video:





"The Serpent And The King" video:





"Trial By Fire" video:

Dive into Totengott’s dark and genre-defying sound in Beyond The Veil. A heavy, melodic journey that shatters expectations and redefines extreme metal.


Totengott and Hammerheart Records have presented the artwork and details for Beyond The Veil. The epic artwork is crafted by Khaos Diktator Design (Gaerea, Spectrum Mortis, Saor), is mixed by Javier Felez at Moontower Studios (Balmog, Altarage, Crisix) and is Mastered by Jaime Gomez Arellano (Sólstafir, Paradise Lost, Cathedral, Ghost).


Beyond The Veil is set for a release in July, pre-orders will start later this month and the first single drops in May.







Tracklisting:


“Inner Flame”
“Sons Of The Serpent”
“Marrow Of The Soul”
“The Architect”
“Beyond The Veil Part I: Mirrors Of Doom”
“Beyond The Veil Part II: Necromancer”
“The Golden Crest (The Ritual, The Curse, The Path, The Light)

On April 26, 2024, German thrashers Darkness will release their brand new studio offering, Blood On Canvas, via Massacre Records. The presale is available here.


Blood On Canvas marks the band's most ferocious album to date, the new Darkness songs seem to be more aggressive and heavier than anything else in the band's discography to date. Following the previously-released, first album appetizer "Roots Of Resistance", today, the Essen-based five-piece has premiered a music video for their latest single, the furious album opening track "Wake Up In Rage".


Guitarist Arnd about the song:




""Wake Up In Rage" is a song about getting up and the morning. The idea comes from the morning itself and describes what goes through the lyricist's mind before and during his first coffee. You could call him a morning grouch, but that doesn't do it justice.


“The alarm clock rings, you are woken from your sleep, have slept far too little once again and struggle out of bed with the prospect of having to spend most of the damn day dealing with some irrelevant shit. You meet people who get on your nerves with their penetrating good humor. You ask yourself why you don't burn it all down and go back to bed.


“‘Wake Up In Rage’ is a somewhat exaggerated but realistic depiction of what should happen before 12:00 AM. The song lets the listener participate in the dark thoughts during the beginning of the day. The morning is not the best time of the day, at least on weekdays, and it deserves this song.


“The good news is: So far, no one has been seriously harmed in the morning."


Musically, Darkness deliver the uncompromising and fast thrash metal they have been known for since their debut album Death Squad in 1987. However, the compositions on their forthcoming album are more complex and detailed than usual, without losing any of the aggression, heaviness and authenticity.


The nine songs were produced at Rambado Recording Studios in collaboration with Cornelius "Corny" Rambadt, with whom the previous albums First Class Violence and Over And Out were produced. For Blood On Canvas, Darkness and producer Corny set out to create an aggressive and powerful, but also honest sound. The cover artwork was once again created by Timon Kokott, with whom Darkness are collaborating for the third time.


Blood On Canvas formats:
- CD Digipak
- Ltd. Vinyl LP 
- Ltd. Box Set (content: CD Digipak, flag, patch, signed autograph card)
LP Colors: black, blue, clear (+ available via the band only: red)





Tracklisting:


“Wake Up In A Rage”
“A Couple Of Kills”
“Night In Turmoil”
“Human Flesh Wasted”
“This And My Heart Beside”
“Truth Is A Whore”
“Defcon Four”
“Roots Of Resistance”
“Blood On Canvas”


“Wake Up In Rage”:

Anglo-Finnish progressive metallers Wheel previously announced their third studio album Charismatic Leaders, which arrives on May 3. Today they have launched the album’s second single “Porcelain”.


Vocalist and guitarist James Lascelles comments, "'Porcelain' ended up being about social norms and how the values of the past seem abhorrent by modern standards. In turn, our current values will likely be seen as primitive, careless or even cruel in the future. I think we would all like to imagine that if we had been born long ago, we would have the same world view that we do now but this would likely not be the case. We are all shaped by our surroundings and social conformity, probably more than we would like to admit. It was a humbling topic to dig in to and the more I thought about it, the more empathy I was able to find for our ancestors."


The album's first single "Empire" was released last month, and the video currently has over 220k views.




The album was meticulously crafted to meet Wheel’s ever-heightening benchmarks and recording with engineers/co-producers Daniel Bergstrand and Fredrik Thordendal (Meshuggah) stretched from August to December 2023. The end result, mixed by Forrester Savell, has consolidated all the gains of what came before: singer/guitarist James Lascelles, lead guitarist Jussi Turunen and drummer Santeri Saksala’s third album represents their heaviest and most conscious music to date.


Lyrically, it is about media empires and the effect they have on wider society - all of us are influenced to some degree, even if we would rather not admit it. Issues that require nuance are presented as binaries and opposing views are made into caricatures - a target for us to rage at that far too often, doesn't even exist. This is not a new phenomenon by any means but it is one that seems to have been catalysed by the modern landscape of media, the internet and populist politics. As you might be able to tell from the mood of the song, this pisses me off immensely and it was cathartic to vent about it.”


Charismatic Leaders clocks in at just under 50 minutes, and will be available as a Limited CD Digipak (also featuring the Rumination EP tracks as bonus), and a Gatefold 180g LP, both featuring artwork from Lucas Mayer (Long Distance Calling, Blackout Problems). Pre-order your copy here.





Tracklisting:


"Empire"
"Porcelain"
"Submission"
"Saboteur"
"Disciple"
"Caught in the Afterglow"
"The Freeze"


"Porcelain" visualizer:





"Empire" video:





The band will be celebrating the release of their new album with their first ever shows in Australia (supporting label-mates Caligula’s Horse), as well as their first ever North American headline shows. Later in the year the band will return to Europe for further headline dates, which have just been announced. Find the band's live itinerary here.


(Photo - Anastasia Korol)

NINE INCH NAILS leader Trent Reznor has blasted Spotify and Apple Music for the paltry payments the music streaming services paysout to music rightsholders. Speaking to GQ magazine, the industrial rock pioneer said: "I think the terrible payout of streaming services has mortally wounded a whole tier of artists that make being an artist unsustainable. And it's great if you're Drake, and it's not great if you're Grizzly Bear. And the reality is: Take a look around. We've had enough time for the whole 'All the boats rise' argument to see they don't all rise. Those boats rise. These boats don't. They can't make money in any means. And I think that's bad for art."

He continued: "I thought maybe at Apple there could be influence to pay in a more fair or significant way, because a lot of these services are just a rounding error compared to what comes in elsewhere, unlike Spotify where their whole business is that. But that's tied to a lot of other political things and label issues, and everyone's trying to hold onto their little piece of the pie and it is what it is. I also realize, I think that people just want to turn the faucet on and have music come in. They're not really concerned about all the romantic shit I thought mattered."

During the GQ interview, Reznor also spoke about the status of NINE INCH NAILS, which hasn't performed live since late 2022. Regarding why he deliberately chose to step back from playing shows, Trent said: "For the first time in a long time, I wasn't sure: What's the tour going to say? What do I have to say right now? We can still play those songs real good. Maybe we can come up with a new production. But it wasn't screaming at me: This is what to do right now."

Reznor went on to say that his soundtrack work with longtime collaborator Atticus Ross "managed to make NINE INCH NAILS feel way more exciting than it had been in the past few years. I'd kind of let it atrophy a bit in my mind for a variety of reasons."

Ross added: "I do feel excited about starting on the next record. I think we're in a place now where we kind of have an idea."

In March 2020, NINE INCH NAILS surprise-released two new albums: "Ghosts V: Together" and "Ghosts VI: Locusts". Consisting of 23 new instrumental tracks, they were described on NIN's web site as "two different records for two different mindsets."

Prior to "Ghosts V: Together" and "Ghosts VI: Locusts", Reznor and Ross last shared new NINE INCH NAILS music in a series of records released over three years: "Not The Actual Events" in 2016, "Add Violence" in 2017 and "Bad Witch" in 2018, with the latter followed by a tour.

The pair have spent much of the past decade composing scores for TV and film projects like "Bird Box", "Waves" and "Watchmen".

Reznor originally joined the streaming service Beats Music as the chief creative officer in 2012 and he became part of the Apple Music executive team when the tech giant bought Beats Electronics in 2014.

In a 2018 interview with Stereogum, Reznor explained why he left his position at Apple Music, saying: "I have a mixed set of feelings about the whole thing. From my own perspective, I got obsessed with trying to crack that code. Being stuck on a record label, watching fans get pissed off — watching myself get pissed off at fans and wondering why am I pissed off? 'Cause they're listening to my fuckin' album! A week before a plastic disc shows up in the store that no one wants to buy. They're not bootlegging t-shirts or something they're listening to shit I did and they're excited about it and I'm doing it too to other bands that I am excited about and I thought, 'This is broken. The whole idea is broken and there's got to be a better way.'

"Apple had been one of those companies that I really looked forward to what they were going to present. It's like Willy Wonka. I thought Steve Jobs was a genius and he brought things to the world that I think made significant changes and I looked forward to what was ahead. Steve wasn't there anymore but this was an opportunity that if I didn't do it, would I feel like I would've wondered what would have happened if I did do it. We were in-between record cycles and after much soul-searching I just thought, 'I'll jump into this and see what I can do.' And it was an eye-opening, incredible amount of work to be dropped into the world of engineers who didn't want you there. You know, the boss dropped you down in there and everyone's, like, 'What the fuck is this guy doing here?' It was an incredibly political situation that was defeating and tiring to have to deal with and most of the work seemed to be on that side than it was doing the actual work.

"I would like my sons to be able to think, 'Hey maybe there's a career I could have as an artist and I don't have to do that on the side while I do something else.' That there's a possible chance of a livelihood being made. I think after two real years of doing that full-time and another two years of doing it part-time some inroads were made that mattered — I think my awareness that most of that job comes down to product design and marketing and thinking about what the consumer wants felt at odds with the artist in me. I'd find myself speaking the language of the marketing guy because I'd been in a room with 40 people that were talking about brand identities and shit like that. I felt like, guilty that I wasn't being an artist and a part of that's my own madness but it made me realize I'm not that interested in that. I've seen it, I've been under the hood, I've sat at the table with these guys, I got to know them, I'm in awe of what they do. It's not what I think I was put on Earth to do. And I know that now.

"There was a part of me that always thought, 'What if I would've gone the computer engineering route? Would I be happier?' I don't know. The grass is greener on the other side. I had a chance to kind of deep-dive into working at a corporation. Seeing the nuts and bolts of how that works, there's a lot of fascinating shit in there that I never would've seen or experienced and I'm appreciative of the opportunity but it also made me cherish what I've made on the other side, as an artist."

The EMIL GUT YouTube channel has uploaded 4K video of JUDAS PRIEST's March 30 concert at Tauron Arena in Kraków, Poland. You can now watch the clips below.

PRIEST's 17-song setlist included three songs from the band's latest album, "Invincible Shield": the title track, "Panic Attack" and "Crown Of Horns".

PRIEST's setlist for the Kraków concert was as follows:

01. Panic Attack
02. You've Got Another Thing Comin'
03. Rapid Fire
04. Breaking The Law
05. Lightning Strike
06. Love Bites
07. Saints In Hell
08. Crown Of Horns
09. Turbo Lover
10. Invincible Shield
11. Sinner
12. Metal Gods
13. The Green Manalishi (With The Two Prong Crown) (FLEETWOOD MAC cover)
14. Painkiller

Encore:

15. The Hellion / Electric Eye
16. Hell Bent For Leather
17. Living After Midnight

In a recent appearance on The Break Down With Nath & Johnny podcast, JUDAS PRIEST bassist Ian Hill was asked who in the band has the final say when it comes to picking a setlist for the PRIEST live shows. He responded: "Well, it is probably Rob [Halford, PRIEST singer], really. But then again, we've got a whole spectrum now. You've got the younger element with Richie [Faulkner, PRIEST guitarist]. He's the same age as my eldest son. And then comes Scott [Travis, PRIEST drummer] and you've got Glenn [Tipton, PRIEST guitarist], of course. He can't do it anymore [due to his battle with Parkinson's disease]. [But] he's still sharp as a pin between his ears. Then Andy [Sneap, PRIEST touring guitarist] and Rob and myself. So you've got a full spectrum there of ages. So everybody has their own favorites and their own types of JUDAS PRIEST song. We all sort of [go], 'Yeah, like that. No, don't like that one.' And then we'll go. If someone's adamant that they really don't wanna do something, well, you don't wanna do something, and vice versa — if someone really wants to do a particular track, you do it. Like I say, you've got the ring-fence tracks there that you've gotta do — the 'Breaking The Law's and the 'Living After Midnight's and things like that, that you have to do. It's what brings people to the shows, basically. And then you've got your other sort of classic PRIEST songs, which is a little bit easier because you can swap and change those between — do a month maybe using one song, change it to another one of a similar kind. And then try to get some new stuff in there — three, maybe four maximum is about as much as you can get at any one time. I'm sure there'll be more than that, that we'll go through. And just swap and change as we go."

Asked if there are any songs that he can think of straight off the top of his head, in the PRIEST back catalog that he really loves to play live but never has, Ian said: "Ah, there's one that we have played live that we haven't played for a while and that's 'Dissident Aggressor'. I still say that's probably my all-time favorite song. It's just so raw — it's just pure rock, really. It's one of those songs that, even in the studio, I can remember it being — it's two guitars, bass, drums and vocals. And I think there might be one extra guitar on there through the lead break. Other than that, it's totally raw. It's exactly as it would be on stage. And I love that song, apart from it being a great song. And there's always other things. We've never really done 'Before The Dawn' — from the other point of view, the other end of the spectrum, if there's a quiet part in [the show]. These days people tend to prefer the more upbeat stuff rather than the quieter pieces. But that would be cool to do as well. It's only about two and a half, three minutes long anyway, so it wouldn't take much time. But there's loads in there — there's loads of them. 'Sinner' we haven't done, so it'd be great to do that again. We haven't done that for a while. But we'll see."

In a separate interview with Metal Pilgrim, Halford spoke about the setlist for the European leg of PRIEST's tour with SAXON and URIAH HEEP. He said: "We've had this conversation before as far as trying to put the setlist together. And after 19 studio albums, it's, like, 'Oh my God. Where do we go?' If we didn't play 'Breaking The Law', there'd be a riot. If we didn't play 'Painkiller', there'd be a riot. There are certain songs that you are indebted to your fans to play, because they're part of the fabric of who you are as a band. Without naming names, there are certain bands where you know you wanna hear that song when you go to a show. So there's a portion of the setlist that already writes itself. Having said that, yeah, we are gonna go quite deep, and we found some songs from previous albums that we're gonna work with and we're gonna bring out. So there'll probably be at least two or three deep cuts on this setlist."

Rob continued: "At any given moment, we've got 60 to 70 songs we can play — at any given moment. And then we're gonna add more into the mix. It's fun to see the texts and the e-mails flying through: 'Well, I'll give you this one if you give me that one.' 'Cause you've gotta find a balance. When a band plays on stage, every single bandmember has to agree on the set list. There's no place for, 'Oh, dude, I've gotta play this one.' There's no place for that. You've all gotta be believing in that particular song as you go through the show. And it's gonna be fantastic. And this is gonna be a really eventful tour as we're about to kick off in Europe, with our friends SAXON and URIAH HEEP."

Hill is the sole remaining original member of PRIEST, which formed in 1969. Halford joined the group in 1973 and Tipton signed on in 1974. Rob left PRIEST in the early 1990s to form his own band, then came back to PRIEST in 2003. Original guitarist K.K. Downing parted ways with the band in 2011, and was replaced by Faulkner.

"Invincible Shield" entered the U.K. chart at No. 2, just behind Ariana Grande's "Eternal Sunshine".

Prior to "Invincible Shield"'s arrival, PRIEST's highest U.K. chart achievement was with 1980's "British Steel", which reached No. 4.

PRIEST's 2018 album "Firepower" entered the chart at No. 5.

"Invincible Shield" is JUDAS PRIEST's fifth Top 10 album, after the aforementioned "British Steel" and "Firepower", as well as 2014's "Redeemer Of Souls" (No. 6) and the 1979 live album "Unleashed In The East" (No. 10).

"Invincible Shield" landed at No. 1 in Germany, Finland, Sweden and Switzerland, as well as No. 5 in France, No. 8 in Italy and No. 16 in Australia.

POWERWOLF will release a new studio album, "Wake Up The Wicked", on July 26, 2024 via Napalm Records.

"Wake Up The Wicked" — the highly anticipated follow-up to the extremely successful "Call Of The Wild" (2021) — will arrive just in time for the award-winning band's first-ever full North American tour, starting in August 2024, followed by their biggest European headline tour to date, the "Wolfsnächte 2024".

"Wake Up The Wicked" was once again produced by Joost Van Den Broek at Sandlane Recording Facilities and marks a new benchmark and undisputed career highlight for the band. The new album is hard, surprising and full of variety. While staying true to their established, loved sound, POWERWOLF go one step further and showcase a different facet of their deft musical and technical skills. This is evident, for example, on the outstanding single "1589", which is based on a true story from the 16th century.

20 years after their formation in 2004, POWERWOLF are expanding their repertoire with the highest quality and adding many future live hits to their extraordinary discography. "Wake Up The Wicked" is yet another statement cementing the status of the band as a leading force in the world of heavy metal

"Wake Up The Wicked" track listing:

01. Bless 'Em With The Blade
02. Sinners Of The Seven Seas
03. Kyrie Klitorem
04. Heretic Hunters
05. 1589
06. Viva Vulgata
07. Wake Up The Wicked
08. Joan Of Arc
09. Thunderpriest
10. We Don't Wanna Be No Saints
11. Vargamor

POWERWOLF are undoubtedly one of the most celebrated and successful heavy metal bands of the last decade. Multiple No. 1 album chart entries, gold and platinum records, huge sold-out arena shows, as well as headline slots at the biggest festivals have paved their way. In less than 20 years of band history, POWERWOLF has made it to the very highest league of heavy metal.

POWERWOLF has conquered countless stages at the world's biggest summer festivals, and their last "Wolfsnächte" headline tours (2019, 2022),as well as their aforementioned North American debut in early 2023, were almost completely sold out — resulting in a massive triumph. They have performed headlining sets at Wacken Open Air and Summer Breeze, as well as held premium slots at genre festival giants such as Hellfest, Graspop Metal Meeting, Masters Of Rock and many more, captivating enormous audiences. No other German metal band has been able to write a success story even remotely comparable in recent years.

Following their onslaught of North America, POWERWOLF will embark on their most impressive European tour yet in celebration of their highly anticipated 2024 studio album. Amid 16 shows in total, the tour will visit colossal venues in Munich, Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague, Hamburg and Antwerp. POWERWOLF will be accompanied by Swedish heavy metal legends HAMMERFALL as special guests, with support from viral rising stars, dwarven metallers WIND ROSE.

The story of the frontrunners of today's German metal scene, POWERWOLF, began in 2004 and only knows one direction: ever upwards. Their trajectory may seem like something out of a fairytale, but it is the result of the band embodying the highest quality of heavy metal in the universe. Outstanding album production, bombastic live shows and a tireless drive for perfection on and behind the stage are what this exceptional band is known for around the world.

Over the course of their career, the band has not only fascinated metal fans, but has also won over international press and critics. Countless cover stories in the most important magazines, critics' awards such as the Metal Hammer Award, and effusive album and concert reviews underpin POWERWOLF's outstanding international status.

POWERWOLF is:

Attila Dorn - vocals
Falk Maria Schlegel - organ
Charles Greywolf - guitar
Matthew Greywolf - guitar
Roel van Helden - drums

Photo credit: VDPictures

In the video below, MANOWAR frontman Eric Adams looks back on the band's 2023 tour of South America, including first-ever performances in Colombia, Bolivia and Ecuador and the long-awaited return to Brazil and Chile, and explains the electrifying energy at any MANOWAR show. Eric talks about the message of MANOWAR and the honor and privilege of hearing Manowarriors share the impact of it on their lives.

Asked if there are any special moments that stand out from the South American tour, Eric said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "Every night I'm excited to see the fans' reaction when we first come out on that stage, because they've only seen videos of us. For some of these places we played for the first time, they've only seen videos, so when we finally do come out on this stage, I mean, they go absolutely rabid. It's unbelievable. And they know the words to every song. Arms up in the air all night long. I mean, they really, really are into it and loved every minute that we were on that stage, every minute of it. We try to include the fans as much as we can in every show, every MANOWAR show. [They were] going crazy. It's a great time for us and a great time for them, and that makes it a great time for all."

Asked how it feels to hear fans tell him that MANOWAR is the most important band in their lives, Adams said: "Oh, it's, it's incredible. I mean, when I see 'Sign Of The Hammer' tattoos on their arms, on their legs, on their tits, everywhere, it's, like, these are true, true fans. These are true fans. And it's gratifying for us to know that we bring the love of music and the love of our message to everybody all over the world. To listen to some of the stories, when a fan comes and talks to me, it's almost — they're tearful, of what they had to go through and how they thought… I don't care if it was just them or if it was a family member that they loved and they had to go through whatever pain they had to go through, they were brought back to their fold or back to life, I think, by just listening to some of the MANOWAR songs. And that's our whole idea, is to let people know that this isn't the end. Everyone's a hero. You're your own hero. And what you do in life to create that hero is totally up to you. It's totally up to you. Nobody can tell you what to do, how to dress, how to wear your hair, whatever you wanna do. You're your own person and you've gotta let them know it. And I think that's the message that we send to people and that's the message that they get. And when it's a combination of sending and getting, it's a huge, huge thing. Huge."

When the interviewer noted that Eric and his bandmates had previously described their live shows as electric current that flows back and forth between the stage and the audience, Adams said: "Oh, absolutely. When you play, if the fans are going crazy, which they do every, every night, it's like, it's like a sponge; I like to consider it like a sponge. We soak in their energy and we give it right back to them, and that just makes a great show."

As previously reported, MANOWAR's exclusive U.S. concert, which will take place on November 30 at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, New York, is officially sold out. It will mark the band's first live appearance in MANOWAR's home country in a decade.

Last December, MANOWAR bassist/leader Joey DeMaio said in a video message that the band's upcoming concert in New York will coincide with the 40th anniversary of MANOWAR's "Sign Of The Hammer". "It's gonna be the only show in America, unfortunately, because our recording and touring schedule won't allow for more, but it will be the full show," he said. "I know there's been questions about that. This is going to be our full team of 40 people with the kind of show that we've been doing in Europe for many, many years. It's gonna be big, loud, proud, massive, a huge event. So I would encourage everybody that wants to see MANOWAR in America, please come. There's gonna be people flying in from China, Japan, all across the world. So I know there's gonna be a lot of people who don't mind traveling for a few hours across America. Looking forward to seeing everybody there and get ready to get your head blown off. Believe me, we're gonna take the roof off that joint. That's a promise. See you there."

MANOWAR's last U.S. shows are believed to have taken place in February 2014 when the band celebrated the 25th anniversary of its "Kings Of Metal" album on the "Kings Of Metal MMXIV" tour.

Back in September 2014, MANOWAR canceled its previously announced U.S. tour dates which were scheduled to take place in November of that year. At the time, the band claimed it was scrapping the shows "due to scheduling conflicts" as well as to concentrate on work on a new studio album.

The 70-year-old DeMaio and 71-year-old Adams are the sole remaining original members of MANOWAR, which formed in 1980 in upstate New York.

In October 2023, MANOWAR announced "The Blood Of Our Enemies" 2025 tour of Europe. The trek will be the band's first in support of MANOWAR's next studio album, which will arrive in early 2025.

In February 2023, MANOWAR released a new song called "Laut Und Hart Stark Und Schnell" dedicated to the band's loyal German fans.

"Laut Und Hart Stark Und Schnell", which translates into "Loud And Hard Strong And Fast", is an anthemic mid-tempo hymn in the vein of MANOWAR's classic "Warriors Of The World United" that invites fans to sing along and raise their hands in celebration of their favorite genre and band.

"Laut Und Hart Stark Und Schnell" was first released digitally on February 10, 2023 on all major platforms and was made available during MANOWAR's German tour.

Less than two years ago, MANOWAR announced that it had recruited Michael Angelo Batio, a veteran both in the studio and on stage, to play guitar for the band on its 2023 "Crushing The Enemies Of Metal" tour. The news came in the wake of guitarist Evandro "EV" Martel's announcement that he was taking a break from touring for a while for "personal reasons".

Although MANOWAR has released a couple of EPs in recent years — including "The Revenge Of Odysseus (Highlights)", which came out in June — the group hasn't issued a full-length effort since 2012's "The Lord Of Steel".

MANOWAR's two "secret" warm-up shows in June 2022 at Jovel Music Hall in Münster, Germany marked the band's debut live appearances with new drummer Dave Chedrick, who has previously played with RAVEN and KILL RITUAL, among others.

Chedrick joined MANOWAR as the replacement for Anders Johannson who announced that same month that he would be unable to join MANOWAR on the band's "Crushing The Enemies Of Metal Anniversary Tour '22/'23" due to "family commitments."

One of the early bastions of true US metal, New Jersey’s Attacker, is back to celebrate their 40th anniversary on The God Particle, a triumphant, eight-song classic metal offering.


The new album will be released on CD, vinyl, and digital formats through Cruz Del Sur Music on April 12. Pre-order on Bandcamp, and listen to the second single, "World In Flames", below.


Attacker are celebrating their 40th anniversary in 2024. It’s a milestone marked by their influential 1985 Battle At Helm’s Deep debut and 1988 The Second Coming sophomore effort, as well as post-2001 reformation full-lengths like 2004’s Soul Taker and 2006’s The Unknown that served as reminders of Attacker’s staying power. While it hasn’t always been easy for Attacker, founding member and drummer Mike Sabatini attributes the band’s longevity to their love of heavy metal music. That red thread and never-ending appreciation for what Attacker means to them and so many across the globe helps define the band’s newest studio foray, The God Particle.




The follow-up to 2016’s Sins Of The World LP and 2018’s Armor Of The Gods EP was recorded at Sabatini’s Bandmother Recording Studio in Jersey City, New Jersey, from November 2023 to January 2024. The album was subsequently mixed by Sabatini alongside C.J. Scioscia, with mastering handled by Joe Lambert. As it stands, The God Particle is a tried-and-true dose of pure, unbridled heavy metal with ample broadsides of aggression and melody—both permanent elements of Attacker’s sound. It’s also clear that the band—rounded out by vocalist Bobby Lucas, the guitar tandem of Mike Benetatos and Jon Hasselbrink and bassist Brian Smith—has gelled into a formidable writing unit, offering what is perhaps Attacker’s most varied batch of songs.


The album’s gestation period was longer than normal (see: Covid), but the extended time writing afforded Attacker the opportunity to craft new songs that are primed and ready for European festival sing-along participation. Lucas is responsible not only for the album’s soaring choruses but also its concept, which is based on the Large Hadron Collider Particle Accelerator in Cern, Switzerland, that is used to create energetic collisions of particles like protons, breaking them into subatomic components that can be detected and studied. Adding to the intrigue: There was supposedly a satanic ritual performed at the Collider site to call in evil from another dimension. Whether that actually happened or not, it serves as the perfect tie-in to Marc Sasso’s cover art (Dio, Halford, Marvel Comics).


But back to the 40th anniversary of Attacker. Sabatini has been on record that he was reluctant to reform the band during its 1990s dormancy. Only the passing of original guitarist Jim Mooney and vocalist John Leone (who performed on The Second Coming) reignited the Attacker fire. The band now exists to honor its storied legacy, but also to create new, compelling music to satisfy a worldwide fanbase who remains hungry for Attacker music. Consider the job complete on The God Particle.





Tracklisting:


“Knights Of Terror”
“Curse Of Creation”
“Stigmatized”
“River Of Souls”
“Kingdom Of Iron”
“World In Flames”
“The Mighty Have Fallen”
“The God Particle”


“World In Flames”:





“The Mighty Have Fallen” lyric video: