Новости : DARKSIDE.ru

Фраза, имя группы

Группы в стиле

Новости

	32
	TESTAMENT's ALEX SKOLNICK: 'It Would Be Great'... 28
	JOE LYNN TURNER Will Be Part Of International Jury At Russia... 27
	DARK TRANQUILLITY's MIKAEL STANNE On AT THE GATES'... 26
	26

1

SARAH JEZEBEL DEVA - \"I Know A Lot Of People Hate The CRADLE OF FILTH Techno-Styled Tracks...\"

Vocalist SARAH JEZEBEL DEVA, who has made a one-off return to CRADLE OF FILTH for their forthcoming Midnight In The Labyrinth orchestral album, has checked in with the following update:

"Now, I know a lot of people HATE the COF techno-styled tracks, but Dani and I loved this. I read on a thread that the female samples are from a film; no, that's little old me, all of it. Unless it sounds like Dani of course ;) So I just wanted to know people's view on bands when they do something like this? Check it out!"

Cradle of Filth

DEATH - Monster 14 Disc Box Set Due Next Year

Former DEATH manager and President of Perseverance Holdings Ltd. Eric Greif has issued the following statement:

"The giant news announcement... kinda got out of hand. Making announcements in this running format (on Facebook) is weird because there is then a thread of hundreds of responses (some, about Chuck coming back from the dead, were a bit OTT... but nevermind). I know it isn't possible to make everyone happy, but we're trying like hell for the fans. Anyhow, the news is this: Roadrunner has sent me a contract after working on this for well over a year, allowing for Symbolic to be part of a monster Death, 14 disc box set on Relapse. Obviously that would allow us to do Symbolic-era bonus material, as well. We could also (obviously) include stuff NOT on the reissues. Looking at 2013 +. If this hadn't been worked out with RR, it would have only included 6 Death albums. So, this is fucking killer news."

Coming a little sooner is the next chapter in Relapse's Death reissue campaign - Vivus! - a deluxe 2CD collection compiling two separate Death concerts.

8

FIREWIND - Remastered Version Of Burning Earth Album Available, Forged In Fire Re-Issue In The Works

FIREWIND's second album, Burning Earth, has been remastered and re-issued in Japan via Hydrant Music. A re-issue of the band's third album, Forged By Fire, is due to be released in Japan on February 15th. North American and European release dates will be announced soon.

NECROSIS Introduce New Line-Up; New Album In The Works

Chile-based bashers NECROSIS have announced a new band line-up for this year 2012 and are working on new material, to be release in early 2013.

The new line-up is as follows:

Pablo Garriga - vocals
Sergio Aravena: - guitars
Juan Pablo "Hueso" Vallejos - bass
Andy Nacrur - drums/backing vocals

5

BLACK SABBATH's Cancer-Stricken Guitarist 'Can't Wait' To 'Get Going With The Treatment'

BLACK SABBATH guitarist Tony Iommi has been diagnosed with the early stages of lymphoma, it was revealed on Monday (January 9). Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphocytes, a type of cell that forms part of the immune system. According to a statement issued by his publicist, the 63-year-old metal legend is currently working with his doctors to establish the best treatment plan and remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery.

The news comes as the original SABBATH lineup — Iommi, singer Ozzy Osbourne, bassist Geezer Butler and drummer Bill Ward — are writing and recording their first album together in 33 years. The disc is set for release this fall and SABBATH is scheduled to embark on a world tour, although Iommi's illness could affect those plans.

SABBATH has been working on its new album in Los Angeles, but now will head back to London to accommodate Iommi's plans for treatment.

In a brand new statement posted on his official web site, Iommi writes, "My fans, friends and colleagues,

"I just want to say how overwhelmed I am with all your messages of support, thank you so much.

"Well, it's not what I wanted for Christmas, that's for sure, but now I can't wait for the test results to come in and get going with the treatment.

"It's really good that the guys are coming over so that we can continue working on the album as things are going great in the studio.

"Well, not much else to say at this time, so thanks again.

"Bless you all, Tony."

Iommi told The Pulse Of Radio that ever since re-learning how to play guitar after severing two fingertips as a teenager, he's always been determined to fight his way through anything. "I've always been the same," he said. "I always have to try to get over that barrier, whatever it may be, and do it, you know. And that's continued in what I do with the music. People have said over the years, 'Well, why do you still keep playing and why do you still hold BLACK SABBATH together through the different lineups?' Because I'm determined to do it, I'm determined to carry on. And it's been with everything like that."

Iommi's bandmate in SABBATH and HEAVEN & HELL, legendary heavy metal singer Ronnie James Dio, died of stomach cancer in May 2010 at the age of 67.

GOD FORBID: New Album In Mixing Stage

Acclaimed Swedish producer Jens Bogren, who has previously worked with such acts as KATATONIA, OPETH, PARADISE LOST and AMON AMARTH, started mixing the new album from New Brunswick, New Jersey's melodic, thrash-metal warriors GOD FORBID earlier today (Thursday, January 12) at Fascination Street studios in Örebro, Sweden. Due this spring via Victory Records, the bulk of the CD was recorded by Mark Lewis (THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, WHITECHAPEL, DEVILDRIVER, TRIVIUM), with Jason Suecof (TRIVIUM, ALL THAT REMAINS, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, CHIMAIRA, DEVILDRIVER) stepping in during the the vocal-tracking stage.

A demo version of a new GOD FORBID song, "Where We Come From", is available for streaming in the YouTube clip below. The track was originaly given away as a free download as part of a Victory Records Labor Day digital sampler.

GOD FORBID guitarist Doc Coyle previously stated about the material for the band's forthcoming CD, "It's always difficult to tell how a new album will sound this early in the process, but I can say that our new guitar player Matt Wicklund [ex-HIMSA] is contributing tons of material. His stuff is very hook-oriented with a Scandinavian twinge.

"The stuff I've been writing has been varied from evil MORBID ANGEL, black metal shit to mid-tempo/power groove MACHINE HEAD-type stuff, and signature GOD FORBID material that is a logical progression from our previous albums."

GOD FORBID will debut some of its brand new material at the following East Coast shows in February:

Feb. 18 - Brooklyn, NY - St. Vitus
Feb. 24 - Clifton, NJ - Dingbatz

Commented Doc Coyle: "With only one show in 2011 and two months spent in the recording studio, we have been itching to get out and play. We thought it would be a great idea to get into an intimate setting in our area for the real GOD FORBID fans. Expect to hear some new songs and some old cuts that haven't played in a while."

"Where We Come From" (demo version):

1

DJ ASHBA Says He Has Written 12 Songs For Next GUNS N' ROSES Album

Mama's Fallen Angels recently conducted an interview with GUNS N' ROSES/SIXX: A.M. guitarist DJ Ashba. You can now listen to the chat in the YouTube clip below.

When asked how soon fans can expect to hear a new GUNS N' ROSES album, Ashba replied, "I can't give anybody a definite date, because I'm not gonna give anybody false hope. But what I can say is [making a new album] absolutely is our main priority. And I cannot wait to get [working on it]. I mean, Axl [Rose, GN'R lead singer] has tons and tons of stuff recorded as it is. I mean, he sits there in his hotel room and he'll play me hours of stuff. And I've written over ten songs — I think 12 songs now — for him that he really likes. And I think now that we're off tour, we're gonna kind of start talking about, 'Hey, let's start piecing together what we feel would be the next best GUNS N' ROSES record.' It's absolutely everybody's goal to get out an album within a reasonable amount of time. That is everybody's focus."

SIXX: A.M. — the band consisting of Nikki Sixx (also of MÖTLEY CRÜE), DJ Ashba and James Michael — has begun writing material for its third album. According to Sixx, the CD will "probably [be] a 2013 release considering the body of work we're setting as a goal."

"7", the latest EP from SIXX: A.M., came out last month and sold around 2,700 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The effort contains acoustic versions of songs from the group's first two albums — 2007's "The Heroin Diaries" soundtrack and 2011's "This Is Gonna Hurt".

SIXX: A.M. will be "doing a proper video" for its next single soon, according to Sixx. In addition, "tour options keep coming, but we haven't found the right fit yet to open up the conversations," Nikki writes on his Facebook page.

SIXX: A.M. recently revealed plans to film a video for the song "Skin" in the Los Angeles area. The band put out a casting call for people whom the song has affected personally because of their own scars — whether physical or under the surface.

In addition to Ashba and sole original member Axl Rose, the current lineup of GUNS N' ROSES includes guitarists Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal and Richard Fortus, bassist Tommy Stinson, keyboardists Dizzy Reed and Chris Pitman and drummer Frank Ferrer.

"Chinese Democracy", the 2008 album released by the current edition of GUNS N' ROSES after a 15-year wait, was officially certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on February 3, 2009 for shipments in the United States in excess of one million copies.

"Chinese Democracy" was made available exclusively through Best Buy.

3

DRAGONFORCE Completes Work On New Album

After playing select shows in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, USA and Canada to give fans a chance to get "up close and personal" with new singer Marc Hudson, U.K. based metal heroes DRAGONFORCE have announced their first U.K. headline concert with Hudson on February 16 at at the 100 Club on Oxford Street in London. The gig is timed to give DRAGONFORCE fans an opportunity to celebrate with the band the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Dragon, and the fact that the group's new album is finally finished and due for release in the spring.

Commented guitarist Herman Li: "We are all glad to be finished in the studio, especially given that the new record is sounding fantastic! We're looking forward to letting off steam at the 100 Club and announcing that in the Year of the Dragon, DRAGONFORCE are well and truly back!"

DRAGONFORCE performed two brand new songs — "Last Fallen World" (described by singer Marc Hudson as "the fastest, most extreme DRAGONFORCE song so far") and "Cry Thunder" — during its October 21, 2011 concert at the Gramercy Theater in New York City. Fan-filmed video footage of the show can be seen below.

After entries from thousands of hopefuls across the globe, DRAGONFORCE in March 2011 welcomed 23-year-old Marc Hudson to the band to fill the boots left by ZP Theart, who parted ways with the group in March 2010.

Born in Oxford England, Marc was picked from the thousands of applications via a number of impressive video auditions and live performances, which left the rest of the band in no doubt that they'd found their man. Since the age of 16, Marc has been building his vocal skills gigging with bands in the U.K. underground scene, developing a powerful style with influences which include Bruce Dickinson, Michael Kiske and Sebastian Bach.

The band has been working on a new album since early 2010, recording in various studios in California, London and the South of France. The follow-up to 2008's hugely successful "Ultra Beatdown" album will be highly anticipated, with top 10 and top 20 chart positions all over the world and a Grammy nomination in the United States setting the precedent. With Marc brought into the fold, the band is enjoying an injection of enthusiasm and hunger that sees DRAGONFORCE prepared to return more focused and determined than ever before.

6

RAINBOW: 'Long Live Rock 'N' Roll' Picture Disc To Be Made Available For 'Record Store Day'

For this year's Record Store Day (April 21), Niji Entertainment Group, the record label Wendy Dio and her late husband Ronnie James Dio (DIO, BLACK SABBATH, HEAVEN & HELL, RAINBOW, ELF) formed before his untimely passing, will release a deluxe picture disc of RAINBOW's "Long Live Rock 'N' Roll". Each picture disc is numbered and only 2,500 were made. 250 units will be held back for fans that live outside the USA and will be made available via the Niji webstore.

About Record Store Day: Record Store Day is managed by the Music Monitor Network and is organized in partnership with the Alliance Of Independent Media Stores (AIMS), the Coalition Of Independent Music Stores (CIMS) and celebrates the culture of independent record stores by playing host to in-store events/performances, signings and special product releases on a global scale.

Record Store Day takes place annually on the third Saturday of April.

Bassist Bob Daisley, who was a member of RAINBOW from 1977 to 1979, in August 2010 posted high-quality video footage of of RAINBOW performing the songs "Gates of Babylon", "Long Live Rock 'N' Roll" and "L.A. Connection" at a New York studio prior to the release of the band's third studio album, 1978's "Long Live Rock 'N' Roll'. You can watch the clips below.

Although Bob Daisley and David Stone are listed on the "Long Live Rock 'N' Roll" credits for their contributions, they joined RAINBOW after the recording sessions had already commenced and only appear on a couple of tracks. Guitarist Ritchie Blackmore played most of the bass parts himself for the album.

"Long Live Rock 'N' Roll" was remastered on CD for the U.S. market in April 1999, with the European version following later. The U.S. version had a matte booklet/insert, which matched the original vinyl sleeve for all markets, whereas the European issue was the standard glossy type.

This was RAINBOW's last album to feature Ronnie James Dio on vocals. He left, later to join BLACK SABBATH, and was replaced by Graham Bonnet.

In June 2009 a CD-size book about the making of album was released in the series "Rock Landmarks" called "Long Live Rock N' Roll Story". It was written by RAINBOW and Blackmore expert Jerry Bloom.

1

Finnish Horror Heavy Metallers DOMINATION BLACK To Release Third Album

Finnish horror heavy metallers DOMINATION BLACK will release their long-waited third full-length studio album, "Dimension: Death", on February 22 via Kanki Rekords.

In the fall of 2009, DOMINATION BLACK went on a break during which the former singer Kari A. Killgast was replaced by Matias Palm (MERGING FLARE, HEAVY METAL PERSE). The band started arranging new material right away and entered the studio in the spring of 2011 to begin recording the new CD.

Commented DOMINATION BLACK guitarist Ville Wiren: "I guess no one really expects an album like this from us. There's so much new going on with the music that many will be surprised!"

DOMINATION BLACK has already put the new lineup to the test by playing several shows, not only in Finland, but also in Russia, where they were welcomed warmly. More gigs will follow the release of the new CD.

"Dimension: Death" track listing:

01. Legacy Of Fears
02. Passage Of The Dead
03. Porter At The Gates Of Hell
04. The Final Sigh
05. Dimension: Death
06. Cold Touch
07. Angel Dark
08. Evilizer
09. The Hellbound

The song "Passage Of The Dead" is available for streaming using the SoundCloud player below.

1

Domination Black

BORN OF OSIRIS Parts Ways With Guitarist, Seeks Replacement

Chicago-based progressive metal hybrid BORN OF OSIRIS has parted ways with guitarist Jason Richardson.

Commented the band in a statement: "To all of our fans and followers, we have decided to part ways with guitarist Jason Richardson. This was something that just needed to happen. We will be a more creative, energized, and focused unit as a result.

"The past year was the band's most successful and we owe it all to our amazing fans. We promise everyone that 2012 will see us take further steps to bringing every aspect of our band to a new level.

"We couldn't possibly be more excited for what the future holds. Also, since the finishing touches were put on 'The Discovery', we've already been in the process of writing our next album. The past month and next two we will be home writing and finalizing the record that will be released this summer/fall.

"Big news coming soon regarding our summer touring schedule. We can't wait to see all of you again soon with some new music to play for you!

"We will TEMPORARILY be accepting video submissions for the [vacant guitarist] spot at BOOlessons@yahoo.com."

The group added, "[There is] no reason to tear Jason down for this. He joined CHELSEA GRIN after he found out about us moving on without him. We still love Jason and the rest of the dudes in CHELSEA GRIN, and wish them the best of luck.

"The five of us have been and written all three albums thus far, so if you like the direction we took on 'The Discovery', then you should only be more excited for what we're about to create next."

In a separate statement, Richardson said about his departure from BORN OF OSIRIS, "Just to clarify to everyone, I did NOT quit BORN OF OSIRIS. I would have never been able to bring myself to do such a thing no matter how much tension was between us. All of those dudes were essentially my family; I lived in the same house as them for over two years.

"This was by no means at all my decision (not that I was involved in the decision in any way shape or form, lol). I have been fired from the band because I 'don't agree with the way they want to live their lives' and 'it felt like their dad was in the band.' So instead of confronting me . . . they decided that calling me at 130 in the morning four days before christmas while I'm home visiting family to tell me that all of my belongings from the new BORN OF OSIRIS house were in my trailer on the way to me in Virginia was the professional way to handle it. So I can say with pride that I will NEVER play another note on stage with the group of cowards that is BORN OF OSIRIS. . . I'm just happy the truth finally came out and now I know what truly matters to them and it is NOT putting out albums like 'The Discovery'."

BORN OF OSIRIS' third full-length album, "The Discovery", sold around 6,400 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 87 on The Billboard 200 chart. The group's previous CD, 2009's "A Higher Place", entered the charts at No. 73 with first-week sales of over 6,000 copies.

"The Discovery" was released on March 22, 2011 via Sumerian Records. The CD was recorded at BOTA Studio in Lake In The Hills, Illinois and was mixed by Jason Suecof (ALL THAT REMAINS, TRIVIUM, DEVILDRIVER).

1

DEATH: 'Zero Tolerance' From Upcoming Double Live Album 'Vivus!' Available For Streaming

The next chapter in Relapse's DEATH reissue campaign is "Vivus!", a deluxe two-CD collection compiling two separate DEATH concerts, both of which were recorded in 1998. Disc One features the band at the height of its prowess, tearing the roof off the infamous Whisky A Go Go in Hollywood, California, while Disc Two is a brilliant recording of the band on the festival stage at Dynamo Open Air in Eindhoven, Holland.

"Vivus!" will be made available on February 28 in North America, March 2 in the Benelux and Germany, and March 5 in the rest of Europe.

"Vivus!" follows the recent Relapse Records reissues of "Individual Though Patterns", "The Sound Of Perseverance" and "Human". Like those reissues, this collection will contain extensive liner notes from DEATH insiders and never-before-seen photos of the band.

"Vivus!" track listing:

Disc 1 - Live In Hollywood (1998)

01. The Philosopher
02. Spirit Crusher
03. Trapped In A Corner
04. Scavenger Of Human Sorrow
05. Crystal Mountain
06. Flesh And The Power It Holds
07. Zero Tolerance
08. Zombie Ritual
09. Suicide Machine
10. Together As One
11. Empty Words
12. Symbolic
13. Pull The Plug

Disc 2 - Live In Eindhoven (1998)

01. The Philosopher
02. Trapped In A Corner
03. Crystal Mountain
04. Suicide Machine
05. Together As One
06. Zero Tolerance
07. Lack Of Comprehension
08. Flesh And The Power It Holds
09. Flattening Of Emotions
10. Spirit Crusher
11. Pull The Plug

A live version of the classic DEATH track "Zero Tolerance" taken from "Vivus!" can be streamed using the SoundCloud player below.

5

FIREWIND Signs New European Deal With CENTURY MEDIA RECORDS

Greek melodic metallers FIREWIND, who are led by current OZZY OSBOURNE guitarist Gus G., have signed a new worldwide deal (excluding North America) with their longtime partners Century Media Records. The band is currently in the studio in its hometown of Thessaloniki recording a new studio album, to be titled "Few Against Many", for a late spring release.

Commented Gus: "We're currently completing work on our upcoming FIREWIND studio album, which is coming out killer! I think this album will turn a lot of heads and I can't wait for you to hear it!

"Whether I've been working with Century Media on FIREWIND since 2005 or earlier projects since 2002, we've always had a winning team. Together we've achieved fantastic things in the band's career and the proof is the ever growing fanbase and popularity of FIREWIND.

"When I explained them my vision and ideas for the new album, they convinced me they're the right partner to take this to a new level!"

Added Antje Lange, Century Media's European label manager: "We feel very honoured to work with Gus G. further on and play our part in the fast development of this outstanding Greek talent.

"FIREWIND is one of the few fast-growing bands in their genre. They have the ability to write excellent songs, Gus G. is a true magician on guitars and their live performance is breath-taking. Anyone out there asking for more?"

In a 2011 interview with Oregon Music News, Gus stated about the relative lack of promotion in North America for FIREWIND's latest studio album, "Days Of Defiance", "If were up to me, I would have released the album after I would be available to tour behind it. This was the label's idea who wanted to the album out. Our current label, Century Media, wanted it released. They said, 'We paid you to record the album and we want the masters.' I said, 'Okay, here you go.' I didn't feel good about it. This is the politics of the music business, I tried to make the label see that sure we'd get some press due to my involvement in Ozzy's band, but we would not be able to tour. Waiting 10 months to tour behind an album isn't a good business."

When asked if there were any plans for FIREWIND to re-release "Days Of Defiance" as an "expanded" edition to coincide with the band's recent North American headlining tour, Gus said, "We have thought about it but it goes back to the politics with our label. This was our last album for Century Media [under the previous deal] and unless you're signed for a long-term contract, they aren't going to do much for you. So for FIREWIND, this time around, there wasn't any creative marketing behind the album. It's sad, because I do feel that it's our best album to date and the fans absolutely love it. Unfortunately, there could have better promotion and Century Media should have waited a few months to release it, but that's record label politics for you."

FIREWIND will play two special shows this week in Greece to conclude the worldwide touring cycle for "Days Of Defiance". In addition, FIREWIND has already announced the first couple of European summer festival appearances: Masters Of Rock (Czech Republic) and Summer Breeze (Germany).

"Days Of Defiance" landed at position No. 53 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200. The CD was released in North America on October 26, 2010 (one day earlier internationally) via Century Media.

LITA FORD Signs With SPV/STEAMHAMMER; New Album Title Revealed

Lita Ford has signed a worldwide deal with SPV/Steamhammer. Her new album, "Living Like A Runaway", is tentatively due in May.

Best known for her work with THE RUNAWAYS and her solo career, including hit singles "Kiss Me Deadly" and the Billboard-charting duet with Ozzy Osbourne, "Close My Eyes Forever", Lita is ready to make a return to the throne as the queen of metal.

"SPV gets who I am, my work, and what it takes to bring this project to life. I'm very excited to have them on my team," says Lita.

"Living Like A Runaway" was co-written and produced by rock guitarist Gary Hoey and represents a return to form for Lita, who drew inspiration from her "ugly divorce" from NITRO singer Jim Gillette.

"Gary Hoey and I wanted to approach this record by getting back to basics," she said. "We want to strip away all the electronics and plug-ins and keep it to vocals, guitar, bass, and drums. Going back to basics is going back to what punk, metal and THE RUNAWAYS was for me."

She added, "[The album title] 'Living Like A Runaway' means freedom and empowerment. To do what I want and to pursue my dreams while answering to no one."

SPV A&R representative/product manager Olly Hahn commented on the signing of Lita Ford: "When I bought 'Dancin' On The Edge' back in 1984, I never thought that I would ever sign Lita Ford to a label. But a dream of mine came true and it's a huge honor for us at SPV/Steamhammer to have one of the leading women in rock 'n' roll on our label."

In a 2011 interview with Classic Rock Revisited, Lita said that "Living Like A Runaway" will be her "real comeback album." She explained, "The last album I did was called 'Wicked Wonderland', I put it out with Jim Gillette, and we were married at the time. It is kind of a Jim/Lita album and not a really true Lita album. I got a lot of spiel about that. A lot of people have told me that they want a real Lita album, and I know what they mean. They are going to get it."

She continued, "I really wasn't that comfortable with 'Wicked Wonderland' — not at all, to tell you the truth. There are parts of it that are good but it doesn't sound like a Lita record. When it got released, a lot of my fans felt weird about it and said it wasn't a Lita album. This time I want to do it on my own. The last one turned out to be more of a Jim album. We worked pretty well together. It doesn't suck, it's not a bad album; it's just not a Lita album."

Lita and Jim are the parents of two sons, Rocco and James.

"Wicked Wonderland", the first album in 15 years from Lita Ford, sold around 2,600 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The CD landed at position No. 31 on the Top Hard Music Albums chart.

1

BLAZE BAYLEY To Be Joined By NEURASTHENIA Bassist On Upcoming Tour

Former IRON MAIDEN and current WOLFSBANE singer Blaze Bayley has announced that he will be accompanied by Matteo "Lehmann" Grazzini, bassist of the Bologna, Italy-based thrash metal band NEURASTHENIA, on the upcoming "King Of Metal" tour. Also joining Blaze in his touring band are Claudio Tirincanti (drums) and Andrea Neri (guitar; ASTARTE SYRIACA).

Bayley has commenced work on his new solo album, "The King Of Metal", for a tentative March release. A European headlining tour in support of the CD will kick off in early March in Belgium.

Commented Blaze: "Over the many years I have been a professional singer, and through my ups and downs, I have noticed how some artists and bands take their success and their fans for granted.

"For me, there is no heavy metal without heavy metal fans.

"I am dedicating the new album and tour to my fans and the fans of heavy metal. It is called 'The King Of Metal' because you the fans are the real kings of metal. Each one of you that buys albums and merchandise and tickets to gigs is a king of metal to me."

Blaze last year parted ways with the rest of his band in order to pursue a career as a solo artist and the lead singer of WOLFSBANE. He explained the decision by saying that "the mental, financial and emotional strain of keeping the BLAZE BAYLEY band together has proven to be too much for me and has taken a terrible toll on my mental health. . . It has been an upsetting, frustrating and sad time because the BLAZE BAYLEY band will not be going on any more, but it is also for me a huge relief and a time to look forward."

A statement from former members of Blaze Bayley's solo band — David Bermudez (bass), Nico Bermudez (guitar) and Jay Walsh (guitar) — regarding the group's split can be found at this location.

The 48-year-old Bayley, who was born in Birmingham, was the original frontman in WOLFSBANE, but left in 1994 to replace Bruce Dickinson as the lead singer of IRON MAIDEN.

Blaze's latest album, "Promise and Terror", was released on February 1, 2010.

The singer's double live album and live DVD, "The Night That Will Not Die" — recorded on December 13, 2008 at Z7 in Pratteln, Switzerland — were released on Blaze Bayley Recordings; the concert was filmed by director Kris McManus and all audio mixed and mastered by producer Jase Edwards.

2

TAAKE Norwegian Black Metal Band Causes Stir With Anti-Islamic Lyrics

According to the Arab television network Al Arabiya, Norwegian black metallers TAAKE have sparked outrage after being nominated for a prestigious Norwegian music award despite having written lyrics that are allegedly anti-Islamic.

TAAKE's "Noregs Vaapen" album, along with the latest releases from INSENSE, SHINING, VREID and ÅRABROT, has been nominated in the "Metal" category at the 40th annual Spellemann awards (the Norwegian equivalent to the Grammy Awards). The largest and oldest Norwegian music awards show will be held Saturday, January 14 at Folketeateret in Oslo, Norway and will be broadcast live on the Norwegian channel NRK1.

TAAKE's critics argue that the lyrics in the band's song "Orkan" (Hurricane) are xenophobic as they include the phrase "To hell with Muhammad and the Mohammedans" and their "unforgivable customs."

However, Hoest, TAAKE's front man, has refuted these claims and said that their sole intention was to criticize religion. "Our view, in the name of freedom of expression, is that it is shameful to adhere to Christianity or Islam," he said.

Marte Thorsby, chairman of the prize committee's board, denied any allegations that the judges had not properly listened to the album before its nomination. "We enjoy full freedom of expression in Norway and a Spellemann jury is not going to censor content in any way," she told the Aftenposten newspaper.

Hoest previously found himself at the center of controversy in March 2007 after he appeared on stage in Essen, Germany with a swastika symbol drawn on his chest. This led to the cancellation of the band’s European tour and outrage among many heavy metal fans across Germany.

Hoest responded to the controversy by saying, "We truly apologize to all of our collaborators who might get [into] problems because of the Essen swastika scandal, except for the Untermensch (subhuman) owner of that club; you can go suck a Muslim."

TAAKE's most recent statement takes a slightly less offensive tone: "TAAKE has never been a political band, and we do not encourage either violence or racism."

BENEATH THE MASSACRE: 'Left Hand' Lyric Video Released

The lyric video for "Left Hand", a new song from Montreal's monsters of tech-death mayhem BENEATH THE MASSACRE, can be seen below. The track comes off the band's new album, "Incongruous", which will be released in the U.S. on February 14, in the U.K. on February 20, in mainland Europe on February 24 and in Canada on February 28 via Prosthetic Records. The CD was produced and mixed by Chris Donaldson (CRYPTOPSY) and mastered by Alan Douches (HATEBREED, SHADOWS FALL, CONVERGE).

"Incongruous" track listing:

01. Symptoms
02. Hunted
03. Left Hand
04. Hopes
05. It
06. Light
07. Incongruous
08. Pedestal
09. Grief
10. Damages
11. Unheard

BENEATH THE MASSACRE will take part in Europe's "Bonecrusher Fest" tour in February and March alongside CARNIFEX, WITHIN THE RUINS, MOLOTOV SOLUTION and BETRAYING THE MARTYRS.

BENEATH THE MASSACRE's "Marée Noire" EP was released in mid-2010.

The band's last album, "Dystopia", came out in 2008. Since then, the group has toured extensively throughout North America (including Summer Slaughter Canada 2008 and Sumer Slaughter 2009) and Europe.

In 2009, BENEATH THE MASSACRE was nominated for in the for "Best Underground Band" category at the Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards.

2

Beneath the Massacre

ELVENKING To Enter Studio Next Month

Italian folk/power metallers ELVENKING will enter Sonic Pump Studios in Helsinki, Finland on February 24 with producer Nino Laurenne (AMORPHIS, LORDI, SONATA ARCTICA, APOCALYPTICA) to begin recording their new album for a mid-2012 release via AFM Records. Nino previously worked with the band on "The Winter Wake" and "The Scythe" CDs.

"I think it is too soon even for us to understand exactly how the new album is going to sound in the end," says ELVENKING guitarist Aydan. "We know that the final result could be very different from what we expect at the beginning of the recordings and we are still putting the final touches to the songs and we need to choose which one are good enough (or less crappy at least!) to be recorded. But for all of those who is asking me how it is going to sound, I would say it will be surely heavier, still very melodic and a bit back to the roots with a lot of good old folklore in it. Expect some great surprises as in ELVENKING tradition. You're going to love it!"

LACUNA COIL: Fifth 'Dark Adrenaline' Teaser Clip Posted Online

The fifth out of six short conceptual teaser clips for "Dark Adrenaline", the new album from the Italian rock/metal band LACUNA COIL, can be seen below. Due in North America on January 24 via Century Media Records, the CD was helmed by acclaimed producer Don Gilmore (LINKIN PARK, BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE) and "promises to deliver the melodic, sensual, metallic rush for which the band has come to be known," according to a press release.

Fans both old and new will have a variety of options to choose from, as "Dark Adrenaline" will be released in numerous formats, including standard-edition CD and vinyl, deluxe edition digipak with a bonus DVD, sticker, poster and guitar pick and as an iTunes LP with expanded packaging, five bonus audio tracks and video. The Metal Club edition will feature exclusive artwork designed by the band and will be limited to 3,000 units. The Hastings edition will feature a bonus 10-track LACUNA COIL sampler, and the Amazon digital edition comes with a free five-track sampler. Finally, for true fans of the band, is the "Darkest Adrenaline" box set, which includes both the digipak and vinyl versions of the album along with a hardcover photo book, a LACUNA COIL custom syringe pen and ink, a lyric pad, signed lithographs created by the band and more, all housed in a LACUNA COIL medical box. This box set is limited to 500 pieces and is available exclusively through CM Distro.

"Dark Adrenaline" track listing:

01. Trip The Darkness
02. Against You
03. Kill The Light
04. Give Me Something More
05. Upsidedown
06. End Of Time
07. I Don't Believe In Tomorrow
08. Intoxicated
09. The Army Inside
10. Losing My Religion
11. Fire
12. My Spirit

The "Trip The Darkness" video can be seen below. The visually stunning performance clip was directed by Sitcom Soldiers (FUNERAL FOR A FRIEND, THE BLACKOUT).

In a recent interview with Revolver magazine, LACUNA COIL singer Cristina Scabbia stated about "Dark Adrenaline", "I really feel that it is really, really a good album with good songs. I think that it totally captures the essence of LACUNA COIL because it's definitely a mixture of our roots and something completely new. We never repeated ourself with any album, but this one, it's a perfect balance between the old stuff and the new. And the new stuff, it's more obscure than the usual. It's definitely heavier — the sound is way heavier than we did before. A lot of people will be surprised. I think so. . . I believe that, you know, it's something that they don't really expect from us. They probably expect us to go, I don't know, more melodic and mellow and actually this is not the direction we are taking. [Laughs] We're kind of getting heavier while everybody else is getting mellower. [Laughs]"

When asked if she and her bandmates had specific aims when they went into the studio, Cristina said, "No, not really, because I think that when you are writing songs, it's not about what you want to achieve. You just go with the flow and you just like what you hear. And if you like something, you just, like, work on it. I don't think it would make sense for us just to think about a song or like, Oh, the album is going to sound like that. That wouldn't be honest and that wouldn't be hard, you know? Of course, you kind of know what you want to do, just because you know that's your taste, but you don't really know what's gonna be the final result. You just, you know, put down layers and layers and layers and layers, and then you just hear the result at the very end. Actually, after the mixing you're just like, Oh, wow! [Laughs] It's hard to see things, you know. You just kind of draw the image of what you think it's gonna be, but you don't really know what's gonna be in the end."

Teaser clip #5:

1

UNISONIC Featuring MICHAEL KISKE, KAI HANSEN: First Video Released

"Unisonic", the first video from UNISONIC — the band featuring former HELLOWEEN vocalist Michael Kiske and Kai Hansen (GAMMA RAY, ex-HELLOWEEN) alongside Dennis Ward (bass) and Kosta Zafiriou (drums) of Germany's PINK CREAM 69 and Swiss guitarist Mandy Meyer (who has previously played with ASIA, GOTTHARD and KROKUS) — can be seen below. According to a press release, the clip, which was directed by photographer/director Martin Hausler (MEAT LOAF, GOTTHARD, HELLOWEEN, MOTÖRHEAD) "shows a powerful band performance at a magnificent ballroom in Heidelberg, Germany."

Former METAL CHURCH Singer RONNY MUNROE Quits PRESTO BALLET

Former METAL CHURCH/LILLIAN AXE singer Ronny Munroe has announced his departure from PRESTO BALLET, the progressive rock band led by ex-METAL CHURCH guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof. Ronny states, "My continued involvement with the TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA has made it impossible to leave me with enough time to fully dedicate myself to such a great band as PRESTO BALLET. I'm wishing Kurdt Vanderhoof and the rest of the guys continued success, and I thank Kurdt for allowing me the chance to share in, and be a part of, his vision."

PRESTO BALLET recently announced the addition of drummer Larry Crowe to the group's ranks.

PRESTO BALLET released a new EP, "Love What You've Done With The Place", on July 2, 2011. It was made available for download on iTunes and other major online sites, but if you want a CD that includes a bonus track, it is only available on the group's official web site.

Munroe's new solo album, "Lords Of The Edge", came out on October 18, 2011 via Rat Pak Records. The CD features the guitar mastery of Stu Marshall (EMPIRES OF EDEN), Chris Caffery (TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA, SAVATAGE), and Michael Wilton (QUEENSRŸCHE) and is described in a press release as "a true metal offering that delivers an onslaught of fist-pumping, guitar-driven heavy metal."

QUIET RIOT Parts Ways With Singer MARK HUFF

Resurrected '80s hard rockers QUIET RIOT have parted ways with their frontman of a little over a year, San Diego, California-based vocalist Mark Huff.

The band has recruited ex-MONTROSE singer Keith St. John for the following shows:

Feb. 01 - B.B. Blues Club & Grill - New York, NY
Feb. 03 - Bergen Performing Arts Center - Englewood, NJ
Feb. 04 - The Rock Junction - West Greenwich, RI

Huff, who succeeded the late Kevin DuBrow, stated in a September 2010 interview, shortly after he joined QUIET RIOT, "I am honored and very excited to be QUIET RIOT's new singer. I am also humbled and feel a bit of pressure. Who wouldn't feel pressure? Kevin DuBrow was a one-of-a-kind songwriter, musician and a consummate performer. He had an incredible vocal range; I have mass respect for Kevin."

Regarding what fans should expect to see from his live appearances with QUIET RIOT, Huff said at the time, "I don't think trying to duplicate Kevin's every sound or movement is what honors Kevin DuBrow or QUIET RIOT. It's important for me to stay true to the songs as they were written, as the fans remember them, and to bring the live show to full strength. I am not here to replace Kevin DuBrow."

He continued, "Frankie [Banali, drums] summed it up best when he said, 'Kevin DuBrow was one of a kind and cannot be replaced.' I am here to help QUIET RIOT continue to keep the music alive in the most flattering way possible."

Fan-filmed video footage of QUIET RIOT's May 20, 2011 concert at Arcada Theatre in Saint Charles, Illinois can be viewed below.

NIGHTWISH: Tour Rehearsal Photos Posted Online

NIGHTWISH will play a "secret" gig under the name RUBBER BAND OF WOLVES at the Key Club in West Hollywood, California on January 19 — two days before the Finnish/Swedish symphonic metal act's world-tour kick-off performance at the Gibson Ampitheater in Universal City. The Universal City concert will be the biggest NIGHTWISH show production ever on North American soil and strictly a one-off — there will be no U.S. tour until later in 2012.

Several photos from NIGHTWISH's current tour rehearsals can be seen below.

As previously reported, "Imaginaerum" has been certified gold in Germany for sales in excess of 100,000 copies. The CD also entered the official chart in Finland at position No. 1 and has already been certifield triple platinum in the country after shifting more than 60,000 units.

[Note: The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) in Finland has revised the sales requirements for albums to reach platinum status in the country from the pre-2010 level of 30,000 to the current 20,000.]

The band's first CD since 2007's "Dark Passion Play" — which was then-new singer Anette Olzon's debut — "Imaginaerum" was released in North America on January 10 via Roadrunner Records.

NIGHTWISH will take part in a CD-signing session at SoundCheck Hollywood on Friday, January 20 at 6 p.m. Stop by the store starting Tuesday, January 10 to pick up the band's new album, "Imaginaerum", and get a wristband which guarantees your access to meet the band.

SoundCheck Hollywood
8872 Sunset Blvd.
W. Hollywood, CA 90069
310.358.0280

9

KNIVES OUT! Featuring HELLYEAH, NOTHINGFACE Members: Debut Album Due Next Month

KNIVES OUT!, the Baltimore, Maryland-based project featuring current/former members of HELLYEAH, NOTHINGFACE, DOG FASHION DISCO and POLKADOT CADAVER, will release its debut album, "Black Mass Hysteria", on February 14 via all major digital distribution sites and through mail order at IndieMerch.com. The CD was recorded at Wrightway Studios in Baltimore.

There are special pre-order bundles available now at RazorToWrist.com.

"The new album is our crowning achievement and exactly what we set out to be and sound like," says vocalist Todd Smith. "Heavy with groove and full of melody, KNIVES OUT! is a fresh, unique and completely original force ready to lead the heavy hard rock genre into the future."

"Black Mass Hysteria" track listing:

01. Hide In The Sky
02. Hysteria
03. Surrounded By Demons
04. Blood Everywhere
05. Eat Your Heart Out
06. Pink On The Inside
07. Swollen Mistress
08. Robot Babylon
09. The First Time I Discovered A Dead Body

Formed in 2008, KNIVES OUT! says, "It isn't pretty and it isn't safe. In a world of copy cat bands KNIVES OUT! stands up to deliver to the world a breath of fresh air to a stagnant, plagiaristic genre. Go hard or go home...horns up and KNIVES OUT!"

The band independently released a four-song EP, "Rough Cuts", online through iTunes and other digital retailers in 2010.

KNIVES OUT! is:

Todd Smith (DOG FASHION DISCO, POLKADOT CADAVER) - Vocals
Jasan Stepp (DOG FASHION DISCO, POLKADOT CADAVER) - Guitar
Tommy Sickles (NOTHINGFACE) - Drums
Dave Cullen (POLKADOT CADAVER) - Bass
Tom Maxwell (HELLYEAH, NOTHINGFACE) – Guitar

SUFFOCATION 'Very Happy' With Material For Next Album

New York-based extreme metal legends SUFFOCATION are hard at work on material for their new album, tentatively due this summer via Nuclear Blast Records.

In the February 2012 issue of Decibel magazine, SUFFOCATION bassist Derek Boyer stated about the upcoming CD, "We're in the pre-production stage [and are] currently working on final arrangements, lyrical placement and content."

He added, "Each album is an evolution process. As always, we take the key elements that are SUFFOCATION, add current feelings and outside influences, the begin collaborating. We're very happy with the direction we're headed!"

Relapse Records released SUFFOCATION's only official live record, "The Close Of A Chapter: Live In Quebec City", on October 27, 2009 in North America and November 2, 2009 internationally. Recorded in 2005 during the band's "Souls To Deny" world tour, the CD contains the band's complete, unedited performance.

SUFFOCATION's latest album, "Blood Oath" (Nuclear Blast), sold around 3,600 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 135 on The Billboard 200 chart. The CD landed at position No. 2 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.

The follow-up to 2006's self-titled record, "Blood Oath" was recorded with Joe Cincotta (who worked on the band's last two releases) and was mixed by Zack Ohren (ALL SHALL PERISH, DECREPIT BIRTH). The cover artwork was once again brought to life by Jon Zig (DEEDS OF FLESH, DISGORGE, GORGASM).

$/\\$

1997-2025 © Russian Darkside e-Zine. Если вы нашли на этой странице ошибку или есть комментарии и пожелания, то сообщите нам об этом

Новости
Новости СНГ
Видео Концерты Репортажи Конкурсы

Группы
Рецензии
Интервью
Стили

Графика
Кино Литература

Ссылки
Форум
Блоги
Чат [ ]
Контакты