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2 ноя 2024
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2 ноя 2024
GOTHMINISTER Releases 4-Track EP + "Tonight" Music Video
 In time for a perfect Halloween, Norway's one and only Gothminister has released not just a 4-track EP, featuring songs of the latest Battle Of The Underworlds album plus a previously unreleased, original version of Eurovision pre-contest hit "We Come Alive", but also a final music video for "Tonight", taken off the colossal Pandemonium saga.
In random order, five music videos have been revealed to date, whereas this last part, "Tonight" , includes the final battle between the Evil King Gothminister and the leader of the uproars against the King (Pandemonium), also known as the leader of the Werewolf clan who joined forces with the clan of the Witches (Battle of the Underworlds).
"Tonight - a change is in the air. The King’s revenge! We have finally come to the last one of the 6 music videos in my hexalogy about the Evil King Gothminister and his Battle", Gothminister comments. "I hope you all will like it!"
Get the Tonight EP here, and watch the new video below.
Tonight EP tracklisting:
"Tonight"
"We Are The Heroes"
"We Come Alive" (In The End Original version)
"Creepy Shadows"
"Tonight" video:
Gothminister is an indescribable phenomenon. With a unique blend of modern gothic industrial metal, danceable EDM parts and a pinch of retro charm, impressive theatrical live stage shows or the sophisticated music videos which received more than 30 international film awards to date, Gothminister have earned themselves a reputation of being “one of the most iconic gothic/industrial metal acts” in the heavy music scene. Not only has their power-laden sound with its remarkable atmospheric density inspired audiences since 1999, its eloquent fantasy stories have also transported them to uncharted territories.
In May
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2 ноя 2024
TEXAS HIPPIE COALITION Premier Official Music Video For "Bones Jones"
 Texas rockers, Texas Hippie Coalition, have released the hilariously entertaining animated video for their recently released track, "Bones Jones". The video was directed by musician Edsel Dope and co-directed by David Perada, and animated by Makinita Silva. The video tells the crazy story of the character Bones Jones, with the heavy riffs on the tracks setting the manic mood.
“In our hometown, there was a guy named ‘Bones’," says frontman Big Dad Ritch. "He was about six-foot-seven-inches tall like Lurch from The Addams Family. I’d get weed from him, but he sold everything you could think of. Just weed for me though,” he chuckles.
Texas Hippie Coalition released their new album, Gunsmoke, via MNRK Heavy on October 4. This time, Big Dad Ritch and his crew wholeheartedly embrace their country and Southern rock stylings as well as a lifelong passion for westerns.
With drinks poured, fists raised, and smiles wide, Texas Hippie Coalition (THC) always know how to have a good time. A collective of tried-and-true rabble-rousers and dyed-in-the-wool storytellers, the Texas quintet - Big Dad Ritch [vocals], Cord Pool [guitar], Nevada Romo [guitar], Rado Romo [bass], and Joey Mandigo [drums] - spike ass-whopping hard rock with a kick of country swagger and a whole lot of Texas grit and gusto.
Gathering tens of millions of streams, logging thousands of miles on the road, and energizing countless fans, they deliver ten anthems tailor-made to simmer and scorch on Gunsmoke. “In terms of the lyrics, the vibe, and where THC come from, we definitely went home on this album,” says Ritch. “It represents the wild west Texas-Oklahoma area. You’ve got a little red dirt country spilling over into the storytelling and metal. It’s a return to th | 0 | |
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2 ноя 2024
CREMATORY To Release Destination Album In May; 2025 German Tour Dates Confirmed
 Crematory, the pioneers of German gothic metal, have signed a new record deal with ROAR. With over three decades of influence and innovation in the international metal scene, Crematory are pleased to release their upcoming and previous albums with a strong and experienced partner. Fans can look forward to an exciting and extensive future with their heroes.
The band is currently working on finalizing their new studio album, Destination, which is scheduled for release on May 2, 2025. Fans can expect a return to the classic gothic metal style with lots of catchy hits. The album release will follow with an extensive tour of Germany.
"The new studio album Destination is an ingenious mix of the 90s gothic metal times like Illusions, combined with hard melodic death metal hymns like Act Seven and modern electronic songs with German lyrics in the style of Revolution. More is not possible“, says drummer Markus Jüllich happily, and adds: ”With Destination the new standard of the modern melodic gothic metal era is determined! The previous album Inglorious Darkness was the start of Felix singing all the songs on his own again and now we've managed a perfect precision landing with Destination!"
Jochen Richert, Managing Director of ROAR, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration: “Welcoming the German gothic metal legends Crematory to ROAR feels good. In addition to the new studio album, we have the pleasure of releasing 14 catalog titles. The challenge here is that the tracks are not available digitally. We have worked out an extensive release schedule that will take place over the next two years. This is an exciting task that we are very happy to take on.”
In addition to the new album, ROAR will release all Crematory's previous albums digitally and in limited vinyl editions for the collectors. These reissues will be digitally remastered and offer a new sound experience that will excite both old and new fans. On CD, there will be a special box set announced shortly.
To shorten the waiting time for the new album, a detailed studio video documentary on Destination will be available online in January. In February, Crematory will release a new single and video clip and follow with a new single each month leading up to the album release on May 2.
The band states: “Crematory ar
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1 ноя 2024
SALIVA Releases New Single 'Time Bomb'
 With an expansive touring and streaming history, hard rock veterans SALIVA are embarking on a new chapter with the release of "Time Bomb", a confrontational track rooted in the hardships of the world, featuring post-grunge vocalist Peyton Parrish.
On the new single, SALIVA vocalist Bobby Amaru elaborates on that feeling: "'Time Bomb' is about those experiences we all have in life where it feels like it's you against the world. There's always gonna be haters and for me it's good to let it out and write how I'm feeling". He continues. "'Time Bomb' is about the determination and resilience it takes to persevere and overcome those moments. People are always gonna try and test you in life, but you have to take it and use it to stay focused and be in control of your destiny!"
Paired with a compelling performance heavy visual, "Time Bomb" can also be viewed on YouTube with a music video directed by Mason Wright.
After inking a new record deal, future SALIVA releases will be available via Judge & Jury Records, a powerhouse record label and production company founded by multi-platinum producer Howard Benson (MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE, SEETHER, SKILLET, OF MICE & MEN) and Neil Sanderson of THREE DAYS GRACE. The instrumentation was meticulously crafted by Benson and Sanderson at West Valley Recording Studios, Benson's studio in Woodland Hills.
On the signing to Judge & Jury Records, Benson adds: "I have known SALIVA for a while and was a fan of Bobby's vocals before he was even in the band. When we heard they were looking for a new label, I thought the band was a great fit for Judge & Jury Records. We are stoked on the result!"
SALIVA's career launched in 2001 with the release of "Every Six Seconds", a certified double platinum-selling album, containing the hits, "Click Click Boom" and 2002 Grammy-nominated "Your Disease". SALIVA's in-your-face, anthemic writing style continued with a certified gold-selling album "Back In To Your System" that contained top singles "Always", "Raise Up" and the Nikki Sixx-co-written "Rest In Pieces". Despite original vocalist Josey Scott leaving the band in 2011, the addition of Amaru brought a contemporary feel to the band, all while staying true to the band's blue collar roots. Amaru has been the SALIVA frontman for the past decade plus and was featured on the most recent releases "Rise Up", "Love Lies And Therapy", "10 Lives", "Every Twenty Years" EP and "Revelation".
Shortly before the release of the most recent album, SALIVA guitarist Wayne Swinny passed away unexpectedly. The "Come Back Stronger" video was notably filmed just days before Swinny's death, and was dedicated to the fallen guitarist. The album went on to be highly acclaimed by critics and the singles "Crows" and "High On Me" charted Top 20 on Billboard's Active Rock chart. The band continues to honor "Uncle Wayne" at every show.
With nearly three million monthly listeners and Spotify and a catalog that boasts more than one billion streams, the popularity of the music, old and new, endures. SALIVA has no intention of slowing down. The new year will be all about bringing new music to the fans, including more touring and a deluxe album "Revelation : Retold".
SALIVA is Bobby Amaru (vocals),Brad Stewart (bass),Josh Kulack (guitar),Sebastian LaBar (guitar) and Sammi Jo Bishop (drums).
Photo credit: Gabriel Goulding | +1 | |
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1 ноя 2024
MOLOTOV SOLUTION Returns After 10-Year Hiatus With New Single
 After more than a decade-long hiatus, MOLOTOV SOLUTION have returned to reclaim their place at the forefront of extreme music with the release of first new single since their seminal 2011 album "Insurrection". The track, titled "Devour The Children", out today, marks a powerful resurgence for the band whose politically charged sound has heavily influenced many of modern deathcore's biggest names. The track is accompanied by a terrifying music video, which perfectly matches the song's intensity and dark themes, and had a timely release on Halloween.
The band's resurgence couldn't be more timely, as the world faces growing political unrest, societal corruption, and deepening fractures. In this chaotic landscape, MOLOTOV SOLUTION's voice is as vital as ever. Their ferocious new single draws inspiration from Francisco Goya's infamous painting "Saturn Devouring His Son" and the revolutionary phrase "la révolution dévore ses enfants". The accompanying music video, which taps into supernatural horror, provides a chilling visual narrative that complements the song's themes and takes viewers on a nightmarish journey.
Speaking on their return, MOLOTOV SOLUTION share: "With the resurrection of MOLOTOV SOLUTION, we're excited to release 'Devour The Children', our first single since the 2011 album 'Insurrection'. Drawing inspiration from Goya's haunting painting 'Saturn Devouring His Son' and the revolutionary phrase 'la révolution dévore ses enfants,' this track explores the dark themes of sacrifice and betrayal in the relentless pursuit of power. It's a brutal reflection on how the ideals of change can consume those who dare to challenge the status quo. 'Devour The Children' brings our signature deathcore assault whilst also exploring new sonic elements, that we hope will resonate with new listeners and longtime fans alike."
"Insurrection" is widely regarded as one of the most influential deathcore releases of its time, shaping the genre for years to come. Sadly, the band went on indefinite hiatus after its release leaving a huge influence but a gaping hole in deathcore genre. Now, having reunited after more than a decade, MOLOTOV SOLUTION's music is needed now more than ever. Known for their unflinching approach to societal corruption, power struggles, and oppression, the band has always been a unflinching voice of resistance. As the world faces unprecedented challenges, MOLOTOV SOLUTION are back to shine a brutal light on the injustices they've always fought against, offering a timely and powerful soundtrack to our turbulent times.
As confrontational, brutal, and essential as ever, MOLOTOV SOLUTION are picking up where they left off over a decade ago, back to reclaim their spot in the upper echelons of heavy music. Brace yourselves for the next chapter of one of the most influential artists in modern deathcore. "Devour The Children" is just the beginning.
MOLOTOV SOLUTION returns in 2024, reawakened after a decade of silence with a renewed fire and an uncompromising vision. Known for their politically charged, ferociously heavy sound, the Las Vegas-based band is ready to reclaim their position at the forefront of extreme music. With a legacy built on confronting societal corruption, power struggles, and injustice, their return is a statement: the fight isn't over, and neither are they.
MOLOTOV SOLUTION has always been more than just a deathcore band. They are a voice for those who resist, a sonic assault against the systems that oppress. As they step into this new chapter, they carry with them the same relentless energy that defined their past but with a sharpened edge and a deeper urgency. In a world that seems more chaotic and fractured than ever, their music is not just relevant — it is essential.
Fans can expect new music that continues to push boundaries, both sonically and lyrically. Their signature blend of heavy, gut- punching riffs and politically infused messages will drive their upcoming releases, which promise to be as intense and confrontational as ever.
With new music and renewed determination, MOLOTOV SOLUTION are ready to unleash a new era of heavy music that will resonate with old fans and new alike. | +1 | |
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1 ноя 2024
DOROTHY Drops Video For New Single 'The Devil I Know'
 The raven-haired rock star from Los Angeles, Dorothy, returned this summer, with the scorching new single "Mud". She rode in on a black horse, equipped with leather and signature red lip, the rock world will once again be schooled in the undeniable chemistry that is alive and well amongst metal and rock loyalists and country badasses. A musical outlaw through and through, Dorothy's new single is a display of raw, full-bodied vocal power complimented by heavy-hitting instrumentation and riffs galore. The song is sitting at No. 3 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart and at No. 4 on the Active Rock chart.
Earlier this month, the singer shared an explosive performance video of the song, something her legion of fans has been eager to see and hear. Dorothy also performed alongside CREED's Scott Stapp at the legendary Grand Ole Opry in Nashville on October 23. It served as the first-ever live performance of their duet "If These Walls Could Talk", an acoustic ballad that delivers two Grammy-worthy vocal performances that escalate to soaring climax as they depict the experience of suffering in silence. It also marked Dorothy's first time performing at this historic venue.
Today, she closes out a bustling and busy month by offering fans another new sonic gift in the form of the new track "The Devil I Know". Watch the video below.
"'The Devil I Know' is a battle cry about the human condition and the spiritual warfare we engage in every day," the singer offers, sharing insight into the song's deeper meaning. "It's a prayer for help in time of need, laced with fury toward the demons that we fight against individually and collectively."
She continues, "This one also boasts a mean and heavy riff."
The details of Dororthy's forthcoming fourth studio album will be announced in due course.
Dorothy's discography thus far includes "Gifts From The Holy Ghost" (2022),which was inspired by a spiritual awakening, as well as "ROCKISDEAD" (2016),which inspired Roc Nation to sign the artist to the label, and "28 Days In The Valley" (2018). The Budapest, Hungary-born stunner has enjoyed over one billion global streams combined across her career and has participated in high-profile collaborations with everyone from STAIND to Slash of GUNS N' ROSES to Scott Stapp of CREED to ALICE COOPER guitarist Nita Strauss, earning and ultimately cementing her place among the hard rock elite. | 0 | |
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1 ноя 2024
HELLOWEEN Shares 'Eagle Fly Free' Video From Upcoming 'Live At Budokan' Release
 The reunited expanded classic lineup of German power metallers HELLOWEEN will release a new live album, "Live At Budokan", on December 13, 2024 via Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM). The colossal effort immortalizes HELLOWEEN's September 16, 2023 performance at Tokyo's legendary Nippon Budokan.
"Live At Budokan" will be available in a plethora of formats: 2CD-digipak and 3LP vinyl in trifold with the first print run of both coming as "deluxe edition" including embossed cover artwork, as well as Blu-ray, DVD and digital. Each version is meticulously crafted to suit the metal community's diverse tastes, ensuring every fan can relive the raw, unfiltered energy of HELLOWEEN in their preferred medium.
To tide fans over until "Live At Budokan" arrives, HELLOWEEN has launched the second single, "Eagle Fly Free". This high-octane rendition of their timeless classic captures the unmistakable chemistry between the band and the spirited Japanese audience at Tokyo's Budokan, elevating the track to an entirely new level.
HELLOWEEN guitarist/vocalist Kai Hansen states: "A song that is just as wonderful and popular today as it was when it was first released. It comes with an effective overture, has a great upbeat and a brilliant, fast-paced ending. 'Eagle Fly Free' has the ultimate vibe and encourages you to sing along. It has everything you would expect from an 'evergreen,' I love playing it."
This release celebrates the grand finale of HELLOWEEN's epic world tour from 2022 to 2023. Spanning over 30 countries on three continents, the tour was nothing short of a triumph, drawing massive crowds and showcasing the band's undying appeal, the sold-out concert in Tokyo is the crowning glory of the cycle. Known for their explosive stage presence and high-voltage performances, HELLOWEEN's shows are fueled by the unique chemistry among the band members. Triple lead-guitar attacks from Michael Weikath, Kai Hansen and Sascha Gerstner alternate with goosebump-inducing duets from vocalists Michael Kiske and Andi Deris, occasionally supported by Kai Hansen, the band's original singer and third voice. He also takes the spectators on a journey back in time with a medley from the band's early days, returning to the origins of their sound — HELLOWEEN, the godfathers of melodic speed metal.
Choosing the Nippon Budokan for this live recording was no coincidence. A venue rich in musical history, it has hosted countless legendary concerts and is an accolade for every music group that has played there. HELLOWEEN is the first German band ever to record a live album in the Nippon Budokan, and for the members it was a dream come true.
Kiske described the show as "surreal, with the electrifying fan energy creating a magical atmosphere." Bassist Markus Grosskopf spoke of the venue's profound personal and historical significance, expressing how humbling and inspiring it was to perform in a place that shaped their own musical journeys.
The live recording's technical brilliance is another highlight. With 29 cameras capturing every nuance, the production team ensured that each moment of the concert is preserved in stunning detail. This attention to detail means the Blu-ray and DVD versions offer an immersive viewing experience, making fans feel like they are right there in the front row.
The setlist of this live album is a treasure trove of surprises, contains the entire 2-hour+ show and offers a fresh experience compared to previous releases like "United Alive" (2019). This thoughtful song selection honors both the die-hard fans craving something new and the band's rich musical legacy, showcasing their evolution and expansive repertoire.
This live album is more than just a concert recording; it's a celebration of HELLOWEEN's enduring impact on the metal scene. It promises to bring the magic of an unforgettable performance straight into fans' homes, offering a piece of music history that embodies the spirit and energy of a legendary band at their peak.
"Live At Budokan" track listing:
01. Orbit
02. Skyfall
03. Eagle Fly Free
04. Mass Pollution
05. Future World
06. Power
07. Save Us
08. Kai's Medley [Walls Of Jericho, Metal Invaders, Victim Of Fate, Gorgar, Ride The Sky, Heavy Metal Is The Law]
09. Forever And One (Neverland)
10. Best Time
11. Dr. Stein
12. How Many Tears
13. Perfect Gentleman
14. Keeper Of The Seven Keys
15. Drumokan (*on Blu-ray/DVD only!*)
16. I Want Out
Artwork by Martin Häusler
Earlier this year, HELLOWEEN signed with Reigning Phoenix Music for the release of its next studio album. The band was scheduled to enter the studio this past summer to begin work on the follow-up to 2021's acclaimed self-titled effort, with plans to issue the LP in 2025.
HELLOWEEN's recent "United Forces" world tour took the band to 26 countries on three continents, bringing together more than 800,000 fans. The trek included sold-out headline shows in Los Angeles, New York and São Paulo, as well as highlights like the show at the Prague O2 Arena, the Schleyer-Halle in Stuttgart, or in front of 14,000 metalheads in Santiago de Chile and HELLOWEEN's first-ever sold-out concert at the iconic Budokan in Tokyo, Japan — the Holy Grail and the ultimate accolade for every rock band. Without a doubt, there were tears in everyone's eyes at the bombastic Hell & Heaven festival in Mexico City, which closed the tour.
In March 2023, Kiske told Canada's The Metal Voice that Kai had already sent him a demo of a song that he was working on that "I was very happy about, because it's not what you would expect; the song was a bit outside of the box, which I am always grateful for," Michael said. "I always thought that was exciting about HELLOWEEN. When you check out the 'Keeper [Of The Seven Keys: Part] I' and 'Keeper [Of The Seven Keys: Part] II' records, now they're classics, but when they came out, it was very different to what the 'Walls Of Jericho' record sounded like. But we had the balls to do it. And I think that's why I'm still here, because those records had an impact because of being pretty fearless. And it is always the benefit of the youth; most of the time, the younger people are very fearless.
"What I like about WeikiandKai, they can't fool themselves. They just write songs. They don't function in any other way but just making the song, and whatever it is, that's what it is. And that song was a bit QUEEN-like. It had a lot of piano parts in it — very operatic, with big choirs. And then it gets rocking again and stuff like that. It's another Kai Hansen sort of symphony. But I really liked it. And I'm glad that he does something like that. I just hope the rest of the band has the balls to do it. I would do it."
Asked if he will be contributing any musical ideas to HELLOWEEN's next effort, since he didn't write anything on "Helloween", Kiske said: "I don't know. I'm not so much of a metal songwriter. I was when I was a teenager. But these days I just don't write metal songs; I just write songs on acoustic guitar somehow. And if I have something where I feel like the band could make a HELLOWEEN song out of it, of course I will present it to them, and then if they get a kick out of it, something's gonna happen. But we have so many songwriters in this band now. And they're all really capable of writing that sort of material that everybody loves, and that's mainly Andi, Sascha, Weiki and Hansen. And I think that's more than enough. If I have an idea, I sneak it in. But I don't really push myself."
As for whether the rest of HELLOWEEN has also begun composing music for the band's next LP, Kiske said: "I know that Andi has songs, and I know that Kai has a whole bunch of songs. He was a bit lazy last time; he only had that one great song, [the 12-minute] 'Skyfall', which was maybe good for three songs, and that's why it's justified, but I would have wished for even more from him. And I think this time he will be presenting a whole bunch of songs more. At least that's my impression, the feeling that I have — there might be more coming from him this time. Andi is always in the game. Andi has this gift; he can just sit down and write 10 songs. He can just do it. I don't know how he does it."
In August 2022, Kiske told Chile's Radio Futuro that the overwhelmingly positive response to "Helloween" "was pretty unexpected. I was expected it to do good, but it was, like, perfect.
"It is very difficult for you, when you're involved in an album, to have an objective view at what you're doing," he explained. "You just do what you do. You always try to make the best out of every song. And obviously the spirit within the band is very good, which helps, but you never know how people hear it. So the best thing you can do is fade it all out, not think about it, and just try to make every song exciting for yourself; that's the best thing you can do. The less you think about success or how critics might see it, the better for the album. It's not easy, but you've gotta have that discipline to kind of fade it out and not let it get to you.
"I was surprised how well it was received, but, of course, it was a very welcome motivation, especially [in 2021]," Kiske added. "We released it right in the middle of the whole pandemic crap, and that was a positive lift, doing the interviews and seeing how people reacted to it."
Regarding how HELLOWEEN had managed to pull off the seemingly impossible by splitting vocals on the album between returning singer Kiske and longtime frontman Deris, with added contributions from Hansen, Michael said: "It was actually great. It was very easy. I was kind of expecting it to be difficult, but it wasn't, because there was no ego fights going on between me and Andi. We were just there on Tenerife meeting up almost every day.
"Before we started recording, we had Dennis Ward making a rough draft of what he thinks could work in terms of splitting: 'This sounds like Andi. This sounds a bit like Michael.' And that was how we approached it. It was some kind of pre-draft of how we could do it, but was nothing written in stone.
"One day I came to the studio and the evening before Andi was recording something, or had recorded something, and he wasn't feeling so happy with it. He came and said, 'I was trying this and that. And maybe you should give it a try too.' And then we figured out what sounds the best for the song.
"There are a whole bunch of songs where you can hear right away, 'That's an Andi Deris song. He should sing that.' Or, 'That's a typical Kiske song. That sounds great [with Kiske vocals].' It's like 'Angels', for instance, it was very clear that that was mostly a Kiske song, and Sascha [Gerstner, guitar] had written it with my voice in his head. But there are other songs, especially when Andi writes his own songs, usually it sounds best when he does it unless he wrote it with my voice in his head, like he did with 'Fear Of The Fallen'. 'Fear Of The Fallen', he was writing it with both singers in his mind, and that works out.
"But it was very easy," Kiske repeated. "Because you just try it out, and you very quickly hear what works best. And I would say, like, 70 percent of the time we knew before that that would be sounding better with him or that would be sounding better with me. Or even with Kai — there were even spots where we thought he should do it."
Upon its release in June 2021, "Helloween" landed in the Top 10 in more than 10 countries, including Germany, Spain, Finland, Sweden, Switzerland and Austria. The cover artwork for the LP was painted by artist Eliran Kantor, who has previously worked with HATEBREED, SOULFLY, TESTAMENT, ICED EARTH and SODOM, among others.
Produced by Charlie Bauerfeind and Dennis Ward, the latest HELLOWEEN LP was recorded in part at the H.O.M.E. Studios in Hamburg (where everything started in 1984). The same recording console used for such HELLOWEEN albums as "Master Of The Rings", "Time Of The Oath" and "Better Than Raw" was utilized to record the band's new material. The effort was mixed at the Valhalla Studios of Ronald Prent (IRON MAIDEN, DEF LEPPARD, RAMMSTEIN).
"Helloween" saw the legendary German power metallers going "back to the roots," with the band recording fully analog and Daniel Löble playing the drum kit previously used by HELLOWEEN's original drummer, the late Ingo Schwichtenberg, on the legendary "Keeper Of The Seven Keys" recordings.
The "Pumpkins United" tour marked the first time Kiske had played live with HELLOWEEN since 1993. Hansen, who departed HELLOWEEN in 1988, had been joining the band onstage on various tours and festival appearances throughout the years. The set featured several duets with Kiske and his replacement, Deris, along with many rarely played songs, including "Kids Of The Century", "Rise And Fall" and "Livin' Ain't No Crime". Hansen — who fronted HELLOWEEN until late 1986 — sang a medley of several early HELLOWEEN classics, including "Ride The Sky", "Judas", "Starlight" and "Heavy Metal (Is The Law)".
In 2022, Deris told the "Metal Command" podcast that he "strongly" hoped the reunited expanded classic lineup of HELLOWEEN would eventually make another album to follow up "Helloween". "I mean, as long as the vibe is great, chemistry is great and everybody's having fun with each other, it would be a crime not to do so and not to plan for a future together," he said.
"'Pumpkins United' is not only the name for the last tour, I think that's something like a brand," he continued. "HELLOWEEN 'Pumpkins United', that's something like a band — a new or something like [that] growing from the old band."
On the topic of how HELLOWEEN has managed to maintain internal harmony with so many members involved, Andi said: "I just can tell you getting along with each other, I think it's rooted in the matter of fact that we're finally too old for the other shit. [Laughs] From a certain age on, you let other people live and you don't take everything personal. Talking for [myself], whenever somebody told me something that could be looked at in a negative way, I took it the negative way. Even though when you look at it from the positive side of you, you could say, 'Well, man, maybe it was even a compliment, because have you seen it from that side?' 'No.' That's what happens when you're getting older — you don't take everything on the negative side: 'Oh, he's attacking me' or 'he's meaning bad' or 'he's meaning to annihilate you or intimidate you' or whatever. Everybody in the band, even together now with seven people, I have to say everybody is old enough to not always look at it from the negative [point of view] but also try to realize who's talking. So I cannot imagine that the boys are meaning bad if they speak about me in a sense that I could take negatively, but because I like everybody, I personally think, 'Well, I don't think they're talking negatively.' So I try to find the sense in a positive way, and most of the time — 99.9 percent [of the time] — it's exactly that. It's nothing negative; it's positive. But back in the day, everything I took was negative — when I was in my 20s and 30s. Then when you get [to] 40, it's getting better. [Laughs] Or maybe it's just you don't give a shit anymore." | +5 | |
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1 ноя 2024
THIN LIZZY Returns With First New Album In Over 40 Years: Acoustic Reworks Of Their Classics
 THIN LIZZY is back with a fresh take on some of the band's most iconic tracks, marking THIN LIZZY's first new release in over four decades. This unique acoustic album reimagines beloved songs, offering a stripped-back sound that exposes the core of their songwriting. Original vocals from Phil Lynott are paired with brand-new guitar parts from founding member Eric Bell, creating an entirely new listening experience for fans. The album will land on January 24, 2025
The first track from the "Acoustic Sessions" album is a reimagined version of the band's legendary "Whiskey In The Jar". Stripped of its classic rock production, this acoustic mix reveals the raw foundation of the song, just as THIN LIZZY first crafted it in their early days.
Commenting on the project, Eric Bell said: "I remember recording 'Eire' from our debut album 'Thin Lizzy' in 1971. I wrote the main guitar part first on acoustic and then we built it up from there. I played the 12-string acoustic throughout the track and introduced the electric on top. This was useful in the studio in Belfast recently where we recorded fresh guitar parts to allow us to create new THIN LIZZY acoustic versions of some of our favorite songs by recreating those original acoustic parts and adding the vocals which Philip laid down on the day and those original drum parts which Brian came up with in the original recording sessions."
Producer and mixer Richard Whittaker added: "Traditionally, songwriters and bands have used acoustic 'polyrhythmic' instruments such as piano or guitar to demo or sketch out their ideas. In most cases these parts are replaced as the production process develops but occasionally, these core elements survive and remain intact. I encountered this during the 'Vagabonds' project. After sifting through all the Decca recordings, I presented a list of ideas however, in most cases additional development and material was required. So the guys at the label approached Eric (Bell) who was happy to get involved with the project and between us, I think we've made something really quite unique and special."
Each track on the album is a freshly created version of songs featured on either the 50th-anniversary super deluxe editions of "Vagabonds Of The Western World", considered THIN LIZZY's breakthrough. The new album also includes acoustic renditions of songs from their self-titled debut and "Shades Of A Blue Orphanage". For the first time, "Whiskey In The Jar", THIN LIZZY's first U.K. Top 10 hit, is presented in an acoustic format — an entirely new way to experience this enduring favorite.
Drummer Brian Downey, the only member to have played in every iteration of the band alongside Lynott, co-wrote the original version of "Slow Blues". His powerful, orchestral drumming created a distinctive bridge in a song that fused gritty blues with subtle jazz influences.
The origins of "Whiskey In The Jar" date back to the 1700s, but it found new life when Phil Lynott began playfully strumming the traditional Irish tune during a rehearsal. Their manager at the time urged them to record it, despite the band's hesitations. Released in 1972, the song soared to No. 6 on the U.K. charts. Though its success was undeniable, THIN LIZZY initially distanced themselves from the track, leaving it off their upcoming album. Since then, the song — echoing the LIZZY arrangement — has been covered by notable acts such as U2, METALLICA and THE POGUES, among many others.
With "Whiskey In The Jar", THIN LIZZY finally broke through, paving the way for their celebrated "Vagabonds Of The Western World" album. It was also the final album featuring original guitarist Eric Bell, whose departure after a tough New Year's Eve show led to the recruitment of future legends Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson, and the birth of their twin-lead guitar sound.
This album marks the first time since Bell's exit that he has recorded under the THIN LIZZY name. Fans can now experience what might have been their "MTV Unplugged" moment — a chance to hear the band's timeless music in its most intimate form.
For dedicated fans, a D2C edition includes an exclusive bonus track, "Slow Blues G.M.", a tribute to Gary Moore, alongside acoustic versions of these classic tracks:
* Mama Nature Said (Acoustic Version)
* A Song For While I'm Away (Acoustic Version)
* Eire (Acoustic Version)
* Slow Blues (Acoustic Version)
* Dublin (Acoustic Version)
* Whiskey In The Jar (Acoustic Version)
* Here I Go Again (Acoustic Version)
* Shades Of A Blue Orphanage (Acoustic Version)
* Remembering Pt. 2 (Acoustic Version)
* Slow Blues G.M. (Gary Moore) (Acoustic Version)
The album will be available in both CD and limited-edition marble vinyl formats, along with an ultra-limited vinyl edition featuring an exclusive bonus track. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-generation release from one of rock's most beloved bands. | +3 | |
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1 ноя 2024
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1 ноя 2024
DIAMOND HEAD: 'The Illustrated History' Photo Book Due In March
 Rufus Publications will release "Diamond Head The Illustrated History" in the spring of 2025.
At the vanguard of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal scene of the late 1970s, DIAMOND HEAD laid the groundwork for countless metal acts to follow. Known for their powerful riffs, soaring solos, and relentless energy, DIAMOND HEAD's music resonated with fans hungry for a tighter, rawer sound. Their debut album, "Lightning To The Nations", is an undisputed classic, boasting tracks like "Am I Evil?", "The Prince", "It's Electric" and the proto-thrash of "Helpless", songs that became essential listening for metal fans and musicians alike. It wasn't long before METALLICA, inspired by DIAMOND HEAD's intensity, covered their songs, cementing the band's legacy and influence.
Packed with images sourced from the band's founder and lead guitarist Brian Tatler's personal collection and bound in the classic "The White Album" livery, this photographic journey captures DIAMOND HEAD's raw essence on and off stage. Tatler's involvement brings a uniquely intimate perspective, showcasing the band's evolution from club venues to international festivals. From rare behind-the-scenes moments to iconic live shots, this collection is a must-have for fans and music lovers wanting to capture the force that is DIAMOND HEAD through the lens of those who lived it.
The ultra-limited-edition, 342-page hardback book measures 310mm x 310mm and comes in a white, vegan leather slipcase with a fold out poster. Only 350 numbered copies are being made and each copy is personally signed by founding members Brian Tatler and Duncan Scott.
The book costs £99 and can be pre-ordered from 3 p.m. on Friday, November 1 at 3 p.m. U.K. time with a 10% pre-order discount. The book will ship worldwide at the end of March 2025.
DIAMOND HEAD influenced a slew of early '80s thrash metal bands, in particular METALLICA, which recorded "Am I Evil?" as a B-side to their 1984 "Creeping Death" single and again included on the band's multi-platinum 1998 covers album "Garage Inc."METALLICA would record three additional DIAMOND HEAD songs: "Helpless" ("Garage Days", 1987),"The Prince" ("One" single B-side, 1989) and "It's Electric" ("Garage Inc.", 1998).
According to Brian, the royalties that he receives from the DIAMOND HEAD back catalog, including the METALLICA recordings of his songs, are enough for him to live on. "It's my biggest source of income," he revealed in a 2019 interview. "It's great and I don't know what I would do without it. It gives me the freedom to do what I like. I'm very grateful."
A reimagined and re-recorded version of DIAMOND HEAD's "Lightning To The Nations" album was released in 2020 via Silver Lining Music. "Lightning To The Nations 2020" included four cover tracks, among them METALLICA's "No Remorse". | +1 | |
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1 ноя 2024
LEATHERWOLF Release Horror Themed Halloween Video "Lights Out Agan"
 Southern California heavy metal veterans, Leatherwolf, are celebrating Halloween with the release of a horror themed video for the song "Lights Out Agan", off their most recent full-length album, Kill The Hunted. The clip features vocalist Keith Adamiak, the triple axe attack of Rob Math, Luke Man and David Coffman, bassist Brice Snyder, and drummer Dean Roberts and can be viewed below.
The band once again collaborated with award winning Spanish filmmaker, Èric Boadella, whose credits include L.A. Guns, Black Swan, and Revolution Saints, among others. Filmed at The Barracks in Downtown Los Angeles, "Lights Out Agan" finds the band in the clutches of a train driving wolfman on the way to their next concert but his train runs out of blood!
"We've done several videos with Eric and this one is definitely different", says Roberts. "All the others have pretty much been straight forward performance videos - this one has a bit of a storyline, it's sort of a mini-horror movie with an element of camp. Eric came up with the concept and we pretty much gave him and his crew free reign. I think it turned out really cool and the whole vibe of the clip is perfect for Halloween so here we go!"
Leatherwolf are currently working on an EP for 2025, which is set to feature a mix of new songs and re-recordings of several tracks from the band's catalog. The first of these re-recordings, a remake of "Thunder" off 1989's Street Ready, re-titled "Thunder (MMXXII)", was released as a bonus track on the Japanese CD and the vinyl edition of Kill The Hunted and features a lead guitar guest appearance by Joel Hoekstra.
Kill The Hunted album artwork, tracklisting, and videos below.
Kill The Hunted tracklisting:
"Hit The Dirt"
"Nobody"
"Kill The Hunted"
"Only The Wicked"
"Madhouse"
"Medusa"
"The Henchman"
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1 ноя 2024
Watch: METALLICA's KIRK HAMMETT Shows Off His Guitar Collection
 In the latest episode of Gibson TV's "The Collection", host Mark Agnesi is in Los Angeles, California to explore Kirk Hammett's impressive guitar collection.
For over 40 years, Hammett has been holding it down as the lead guitarist of METALLICA, inspiring generations of players to pick up the guitar. With over 125 million albums sold and sold-out stadium shows worldwide, you can bet Kirk has acquired a guitar collection fit for rock royalty. Join Agnesi to get an insider's look at Kirk's legendary guitar collection in the latest episode of Gibson TV's "The Collection". What you are about to see might shock you, and once you get a glimpse, nothing else will matter…
Watch as Hammett discusses his incredible journey with guitars, starting with how a job at Burger King led him to purchase his first Gibson Flying V, which he still plays today, and how it helped shape his iconic sound. Kirk talks about his legendary acquisition of "Greeny," Peter Green's famous 1959 Les Paul, and shares stories about owning some of the rarest Gibson guitars ever made, including a 1963 Gibson Explorer from the first production run.
Get an inside look at some of the guitars he owns, including a selection of 1958 and 1959 Les Pauls, and the guitars Kirk used to write his most iconic riffs and solos from "Kill 'Em All", "Ride The Lightning" and the Black Album.
He also reveals the rare guitars he's still hunting for and reflects on what it means to return to Gibson as an artist. If you've ever wanted to know which guitars Hammett plays and see the guitars that he used to write your favorite METALLICA tracks, this is your chance!
Chapters:
0:00 Introducing Kirk Hammett
0:45 Interview - Kirk's first memories of guitar
10:42 - 1952 Les Paul Goldtop
14:05 - 1960 Les Paul TV Special
16:42 - 1956 Les Paul Custom
19:50 Interview (cont'd) - guitars used on Metallica albums and collecting guitars
24:19 - 1958 Les Paul Standard
28:10 - 1958 Les Paul Custom
31:08 Interview (cont'd) - Playing Bob Rock's sunburst Les Paul
33:50 - 1958 Les Paul Standard
37:35 Interview (cont'd) - Buying "Greeny"
43:35 - 1959 Les Paul Standard "Greeny"
50:55 - 1959 Les Paul Standard
55:02 - 1960 Les Paul Standard "Sunny"
57:26 Interview (cont'd) - A love of Korina Flying Vs
58:43 - 1957 Korina Flying V Prototype
01:02:26 - 1963 Korina Explorer™
01:07:27 - 1979 Flying V
01:13:30 Interview (cont'd) - Collecting Flying Vs
01:18:16 - 1972 Medallion Flying V
01:22:12 Interview (cont'd) - What Kirk looks for when buying vintage guitars
01:26:08 - 1959 ES-335TD
01:30:53 - 1955 ES-295
01:34:00 Interview (cont'd) - How Kirk designed his first signature ESP guitar
01:37:10 - ESP KH-1 "Joker"
01:41:15 Interview (cont'd) - Kirk on returning to Gibson as an artist
01:44:15 - 1964 J-180 Everly Brothers
01:47:16 Interview (cont'd) - Talking about guitars forever
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1 ноя 2024
ELOY CASAGRANDE: How I Came To Join SLIPKNOT
 In a new interview with ProMark Drumsticks, former SEPULTURA drummer Eloy Casagrande explained how he came to join SLIPKNOT earlier this year prior to the launch of the heavy metal giants' 25th-anniversary North American tour. He said (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "I just got a call from the manager. He asked me if I was interested in doing an audition for the band. So I came here to the U.S. I spent 10 days with the band. We were just jamming so we could check if there was some kind of chemistry between us. We spent, like, four or five days just recording new stuff. I think they wanted to check if I was able to compose some drum parts and to check if I was also able to record drums in the studio, because that's a whole different universe. So that was a very complete audition. And after those same days, I went back to Brazil. And they gave me a call two days later saying that I was in the band, that I made it. That was super cool."
Reflecting in more detail on his SLIPKNOT audition, Eloy said: "I had, like, 15 days to learn the songs; they gave me a big list of songs that I was supposed to learn. Every day in the rehearsal, we were trying different songs, picking different stuff from different albums. But, of course, I already knew how to play some of their songs.
"I remember the first day that I was there. I was warming up in the studio. I had, like, my pad, drumsticks, pedals. And the guys from the band, they started arriving at the studio, and I was in shock. When we played the first song, I did several mistakes, because I was so in shock to see everybody in front of me. And I couldn't think. I couldn't even breathe. But they were, like, 'Okay, we understand that you're in a difficult situation right now. We understand your side. So just relax, have fun. We're just here to see the vibe.' And then from the second day, I think everything got better. I was more relaxed to play the drums and just let the music flow."
Casagrande said that it's a huge honor and a dream come true for him to be an official member of SLIPKNOT.
"I have been listening to SLIPKNOT since I was a teenager, and it was very important to my musical formation," he said. "And here we are now, after a couple of months, we're here. When I was — I don't know— 12 years old, watching them on MTV playing 'Duality', that blew my mind. It's such an honor to be here now.
"Now, I never imagined that this was something possible," he added. "There is the difference of countries — I live in Brazil; it's an American band. We don't forget that I was lucky to be at the right moment in the right spot. So, I was invited to be here."
In an interview with Tone-Talk, SLIPKNOT guitarist Jim Root spoke about how Casagrande came to join SLIPKNOT and his impact on the band's overall sound. He said: "We didn't even try anybody else. Eloy's name came up. He contacted us, actually, about wanting to be a part of it and started sending a bunch of videos in. I think him and our bass player [Alessandro 'Vman' Venturella] might've had a little bit of a relationship before. I think they knew each other. They had mutual friends. And Vman's really in tune with a lot of really great, proggy, heavy musicians that are passionate about their instruments. And it just seemed like a no-brainer. And he's really respectful of the legacy of [SLIPKNOT's original drummer, the late] Joey [Jordison], and Joey was a huge influence on him. And he's so humble. The dude has so much humility. And you could tell he just lives and breathes his craft, to the point where I see his passion and it ignites my passion for my instrument. And Brazilians, South Americans in general, are so passionate about what they do. Our manager told me, he was out to dinner with four or five promoters from South America, and they were all really stoked. They're all, like, 'It's so good you've got a Brazilian drummer in SLIPKNOT now. We kind of feel like we've won the World Cup.' It's a cool feeling. And God, he just fits in so well. I don't know, man. I mean, there's a lot of things I can say about it. I'm just glad it happened when it did. And we're lucky to have him — we are really lucky to have that dude."
For its 2024 gigs so far, SLIPKNOT adopted a classic look, bringing back the 1999 red jumpsuits and elements of their early masks into their modern versions, tying into the fact that SLIPKNOT is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.
After parting ways with Jay Weinberg last November, SLIPKNOT teased fans with a hint about a new drummer more than seven months ago, posting a photo of a single broken drumstick online with the caption "Rehearsal."
The band explained in a statement that the split with Weinberg was a creative decision. Jay followed up with a statement of his own, saying that he was "heartbroken and blindsided" by his dismissal.
Weinberg has since joined SUICIDAL TENDENCIES and INFECTIOUS GROOVES.
Casagrande abruptly quit SEPULTURA six months ago, shortly before he was supposed to begin rehearsals for the band's recently launched 40th-anniversary farewell tour.
"February 6th, a few days prior to the first rehearsal, drummer Eloy Casagrande informed the band that he was leaving SEPULTURA to pursue a career in another project," the band said in a statement.
Casagrande joined SEPULTURA nearly 13 years ago as the replacement for Jean Dolabella.
SLIPKNOT's latest album "The End, So Far", arrived in August 2022. It marked the band's the last full-length LP before the departure of both keyboardist Craig Jones, who left the group in June 2023, and Weinberg.
SLIPKNOT recently completed the North American portion of the "Here Comes The Pain" tour. The band was celebrating the 25th anniversary of its seminal debut album, "Slipknot", which catapulted the band back in 1999. The "Here Comes The Pain" tour, produced by Live Nation, included arena plays nationwide this summer. Highlights included New York City's Madison Square Garden, Los Angeles's Intuit Dome, Austin's Moody Center and more with direct support from Kentucky's young and vibrant hardcore/metal forerunners KNOCKED LOOSE. ORBIT CULTURE and VENDED also provided support on select dates.
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1 ноя 2024
KROKUS Frontman MARC STORACE Releases 'Screaming Demon' Single From Upcoming 'Crossfire' Solo Album
 STORACE, Swiss rock legend Marc Storace's eponymous band, will release its second album, "Crossfire", on November 22 via Frontiers Music Srl. The official music video for the LP's latest single, 'Screaming Demon", can be seen below.
Storace comments on the song: "'Screaming Demon' starts with an explosive intro, bursting into a hellraising rhythm with a screaming guitar on top, before I start singing about getting a kick from driving this hot car: 'I'm gonna rolla, I'm in controlla, Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!'"
"Crossfire" track listing:
01. Screaming Demon
02. The New Unity
03. Rock This City
04. Adrenaline
05. Love Thing Stealer
06. Let's Get Nuts
07. Thrill And A Kiss
08. We All Need The Money
09. Hell Yeah
10. Millionaire Blues
11. Sirens
12. Only Love Can Hurt Like This
Storace previously stated about "Crossfire": "Tommy Henriksen, in spite of his tight touring schedule with Alice Cooper, HOLLYWOOD VAMPIRES and his work with his CROSSBONE SKULLY, actually 'made time' to produce my 'Crossfire' album! Hell yeah, that’s what I call a good friend! Creating the songs with T felt like magic… And he even got the incredible Olle Romo, Mutt Lange's very own engineer, to mix the album… Unbelievable! It was like a match made in heaven!! Play it loud!!"
Maltese-born-Swiss musician Marc Storace started his exceptional musical career in 1970, with the Swiss cult progressive band TEA, which became a very successful band and with whom he released five LPs. Marc gained attention for his frontmanship and high-pitched raunchy vocal tone.
In 1979, Marc became the voice of KROKUS, the most successful hard rock band from Switzerland. After their first album with Marc, "Metal Rendez-Vous", KROKUS played several world tours, sold over 15 million records, and won many gold and platinum awards.
After the group disbanded, Marc formed the band BLUE, who released their self-titled album in 1991, including the widely known hit "You Can't Stop The Rainfall".
In the 1990s and 2000s, Marc acted in two feature films ("Anuk" and "Handyman") and reached gold status with various KROKUS formations and three LPs. With many guest appearances such as on "Rock Meets Classic", SWEET 50th anniversary, Ken Hensley live in Switzerland, "Schubert In Rock", and on Manfred Ehlert's albums "Amen" and the rock opera "Test", Marc remained present with his fans.
In 2008, fans were surprised by the news that the original KROKUS formation would be touring again. The success was tremendous: tours in USA, Japan, Europe and South America as well as two new studio LPs, which, in turn, earned platinum status. In December 2019, KROKUS played a farewell concert at the sold-out Hallenstadion in Zurich.
At the beginning of 2021, Marc started working on his solo career as STORACE and at the end of 2021, he released his first solo album "Live And Let Live". In the middle of the pandemic, Marc started his first tour in Switzerland accompanied by the album's studio band. Since May 2022, Marc has been performing with his new band and rocking the stage like never before.
Marc spent 2023 and 2024 writing and producing the new album "Crossfire", a monster piece of hard rock, with songwriting shared between Marc Storace, guitar player Tommy Henriksen (Alice Cooper band) and drummer Pat Aeby (KROKUS, GOTUS).
"Crossfire", produced by Tommy Henriksen and mixed by the award-winning engineer Olle Romo, features a collection of hard rock anthemic songs, with big choruses, great guitars, and an awesome rhythm section.
STORACE is:
Marc Storace - Vocals
Dom Favez - Rhythm Guitar
Serge Christen - Lead Guitar
Patrick Aeby - Drums
Emi Meyer - Bass
KROKUS has been playing sporadic shows in recent years, including the Riverside Aarburg festival in August 2023.
In September 2022, KROKUS played a special concert on the steps of the St. Ursus Cathedral in Solothurn, Switzerland. In addition, Solothurn honored the band with a "Stone Of Honor" on its 2000th anniversary. KROKUS also returned to the "holy ground of rock" in Switzerland, the Hallenstadion in Zürich, on May 6, 2023.
Four years ago, KROKUS postponed what was supposed to be the band's last-ever concerts in USA and Canada due to the coronavirus pandemic that was sweeping the globe.
When KROKUS first announced its decision to embark on a farewell tour in September 2018, the band explained in a statement: "KROKUS shows have always been special and should stay that way. That's why we decided to stop when it's still really good. That's how the fans should remember us."
Formed in 1975, KROKUS has sold over 15 million records, toured the world, and received gold and platinum discs in the USA and Canada. KROKUS was also the first Swiss band to sell out Hallenstadion and has received a diamond disc for selling one million albums in Switzerland alone.
In the course of its career, KROKUS has rocked over 2,000 shows on five continents, countless cities, unique locations, crazy gigs, and loyal fans.
English rock journalist Malcolm Dome quite rightly said: "If you look at the long-term output of this band, KROKUS is clearly one of the best hard rock bands of the last 40 years."
Photo credit: Frank Kollby | +2 | |
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1 ноя 2024
THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER Shares Music Video For 'Utopia Black' From 'Servitude' Album
 THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER has released the official music video for the song "Utopia Black". The fiery new tune comes off the band's tenth studio album, "Servitude", which came out on September 27 via Metal Blade Records.
With the tragic passing of the band's frontman and co-founder Trevor Strnad in 2022, guitarist Brian Eschbach, bassist Max Lavelle, drummer Alan Cassidy and producer/guitarist Brandon Ellis were faced with a decision: close the door on one of the most beloved death metal bands of the last twenty years, or carry on in their fallen brother's charismatic spirit?
"Everyone that's in the band now is someone that Trevor and I searched for," Eschbach says. "We spent so much time on the road together that everyone understands the mission statement. We don't really need to talk about it. We just need to make great music and try to make people happy playing it."
After a period of profound grief and deep soul-searching, Eschbach moved from guitar to vocals, setting aside his lifelong identity as a live guitarist for the survival of the band. Former THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER member Ryan Knight returned to the fold to take Eschbach's place on guitar. The new lineup made their debut in the band's hometown of Detroit in late October 2022 for a tribute show for Strnad.
Fast forward to right about now: THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER's new album is the one that many would have thought impossible. "Servitude" marks Eschbach's recorded debut as THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER's lead vocalist and lyricist — and their first with Knight on guitar since 2015's "Abysmal".
"I just had to lean into it hard," Eschbach says of approaching 'Servitude' in a completely new role. "Honestly, writing the lyrics for this album was easier for me than writing the music for the three songs that I wrote music for. I'd pick a subject, research it, and just kinda dive in. Even though it's not something I'd really ever done before, there was a natural flow to it once I started."
You can hear the thrilling results on "Aftermath" the ripping lead single, which envisions a post-apocalyptic cannibal scenario. "We wanted that one to be heard first because it's one of the faster songs on the album, if not the fastest," Eschbach says. "We wanted that very aggressive BLACK DAHLIA melodic death metal feel coming right at you. Lyrically, it's about a meteor that fucks up the whole planet, but there's still people living. Kind of like 'The Walking Dead', but with no zombies — so you get right to how people deal with it. And by the end, they're eating each other."
The members of THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER know that some will be skeptical of an album without Trevor's inimitable presence. But many fans have already embraced the band's decision to move forward.
"More than pressures or expectations from the fanbase, I feel their trust and support," Ellis says. "We've always done what we do for them, and they've appreciated our consistency over the years. The global outcry following Trevor's passing has shown us how important the band's music has been to so many people, and how important it is that we continue in his honor. Under all that weight, I think we all knew what needed to be done."
"We put in everything we had, and this is the album that felt right to make," he adds. "I'm proud of it and proud of the five of us. You can never please everybody, but I know that this music will be a healing and positive force for those who embrace it!"
The guitars, bass, and vocals for "Servitude" were recorded at Ellis's home studio in New Jersey. The drums were recorded by Mark Lewis in Nashville, Tennessee where the album was also mixed. "Servitude" was mastered by Ted Jensen.
"Servitude" was released on digipak CD, cassette and digital formats as well as vinyl.
"Servitude" track listing:
01. Evening Ephemeral
02. Panic Hysteric
03. Aftermath
04. Cursed Creator
05. An Intermission
06. Asserting Dominion
07. Servitude
08. Mammoth's Hand
09. Transcosmic Blueprint
10. Utopia Black
THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER has joined DYING FETUS for a North American co-headlining tour this fall. The "Beg To Serve 2024" tour commenced on October 3 in Cleveland, Ohio and is making its way through over two dozen cities, the journey coming to a close on November 10 in Chicago, Illinois. Support is being provided by SPITE, ANGELMAKER and VOMIT FORTH.
THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER is:
Brian Eschbach - lead vocals
Max Lavelle - bass
Alan Cassidy - drums
Brandon Ellis - lead guitar, backing vocals
Ryan Knight - rhythm guitar, backing vocals
Photo by Marshall Wieczorek | +1 | |
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1 ноя 2024
ALEX LIFESON's ENVY OF NONE Project Releases New Song 'Not Dead Yet'
 With an unyielding spirit and defiant energy, "Not Dead Yet" is the latest offering from ENVY OF NONE. Featuring the masterful musicianship of RUSH's Alex Lifeson (guitars),CONEY HATCH's Andy Curran (bass, keyboards, backing vocals),Alf Annibalini (guitar, keyboards) and Randy Cooke (drums),with the ever-compelling Maiah Wynne delivering lead vocals, ENVY OF NONE conjure a unique blend of classic, progressive rock and modern, vibrant textures.
Speaking on the song's meaning, Maiah, who penned the lyrics, shared that it was inspired by Andy's raw chorus line: "I'm not dead yet, come on along and see what I am good for." She describes the track as a cathartic anthem, one that embodies resilience and defiance against the forces that aim to tear us down. "You have to continue to exist, to create, and to fight. That's the heart of the song: keep going and enjoy the ride." The single is accompanied by a video inspired by the Mexican Dia De Los Muertos 'Day Of The Dead' holiday.
As the band blends their dynamic soundscapes, "Not Dead Yet" unfolds as a layered journey, driving forward with tight rhythms and Alex Lifeson's legendary guitar lines. The breakdown, Wynne's favorite part, is the song's emotional peak, offering listeners a moment of release before launching back into its resilient conclusion. The mix, by Annibalini, coupled with Harry Hess's mastering, guarantees that every element shines with clarity and force.
"Not Dead Yet" not only serves as a bold statement from the band but also as a testament to the unyielding human spirit, a reminder to keep fighting, creating, and pushing forward — no matter what.
Credits:
• Animation / directed by: Mariano Biotico
• Written, arranged, recorded, and produced by ENVY OF NONE
• Mixed by Alf Annibalini
• Mastered by Harry Hess at HBomb Mastering
ENVY OF NONE is:
Alf Annibalini - Guitar, Keyboards
Andy Curran - Bass Guitar, Background Vocals, Guitar
Alex Lifeson - Guitar, Mandola, Oud,
Maiah Wynne - Lead Vocals, Background Vocals, Keyboards
ENVY OF NONE is busy in the studio putting the finishing touches on its next album and the follow-up to 2022's self-titled debut, expected in spring 2025.
Photo credit: Richard Sibbald | 0 | |
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1 ноя 2024
DAVID ELLEFSON And KEN MARY Team Up With CATHY RANKIN On New Single 'Now You've Gone'
 Cathy Rankin has released her debut single "Now You've Gone", featuring renowned musicians David Ellefson (formerly of MEGADETH) and Ken Mary (formerly of ALICE COOPER). The emotional track, inspired by deeply personal experiences, reflects on themes of love, grief, and ultimately hope, and will be accompanied by an official music video.
Rankin wrote the song as a tribute to legendary drummer Neil Peart, and her nephew, Christian. "Both had a permanent impact on my life," she shares. "Neil's music and lyrics were a huge influence for me, and my nephew was a light in this world for the 18 years he was here. The song is my way of expressing the void I felt when they were gone, and connecting with others who have experienced similar feelings of loss."
The project came naturally as Rankin, Ellefson, Mary and guitarist John Bronson were all connected through their music roots in Arizona, and their involvement with the Metal Hall Of Fame. They discovered their shared passion for RUSH which led to the development of the song. Rankin explains: "Ken co-wrote and produced the track while John and I have played and performed together for years. David jumped on board, and everything just clicked. The entire process was a fun and smooth experience and we formed lasting friendships."
Both Mary and Ellefson are proud of the project.
"Working with Cathy is amazing," said Mary. "She's a total pro, and when I heard her idea for this song, I wanted to get involved right away. She's an incredible talent, and I feel the song is the most moving tribute I've heard to date."
Ellefson added: "She did a fantastic job honoring Neil with this moving tribute. May this song continue to live to honor our prog hero from fans such as us."
Music enthusiasts will not want to miss the official video. Rankin shares her excitement, stating, "RUSH fans, especially, will catch the subtle metaphors and nods to the Professor, but rock fans in general will appreciate the exceptional musicianship and production."
Though "Now You've Gone" is Rankin's first original single, she's been active in the music scene for years, co-hosting the Metal Hall Of Fame with Eddie Trunk, the annual Bubba Bash with YYNOT (honoring Neil) and singing on countless stages with her successful cover bands. This release is the perfect introduction to Rankin as an original artist, and fans can expect more to come.
To celebrate the release of "Now You've Gone", Rankin is signing a limited amount of "Exit Stage Left"-inspired flats and making available the brand-new Cathy Rankin official t-shirt. | 0 | |
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1 ноя 2024
Watch: EVANESCENCE Joined By HALESTORM's LZZY HALE For 'Bring Me To Life' Performance In Ontario
 HALESTORM's Lzzy Hale joined EVANESCENCE on stage Tuesday night (October 29) at the London, Ontario stop of the two bands' joint Canadian tour to perform the EVANESCENCE smash hit "Bring Me To Life". Fan-filmed video of her appearance can be seen below.
At most of the shows on the Canadian tour, EVANESCENCE singer Amy Lee had been joining HALESTORM on stage to perform the HALESTORM song "Break In".
In August 2020, HALESTORM released the official music video for a reimagined version of "Break In", featuring a guest appearance by Lee. The new version of the track, which originally appeared on HALESTORM's second album, 2012's "The Strange Case Of..." , was recorded in October 2019 at a Nashville studio with producer Nick Raskulinecz, who had previously worked with both bands. The clip captured Hale and Lee delivering an impassioned studio performance of the track.
The updated "Break In" appeared on "Halestorm Reimagined", a collection of reworked HALESTORM original songs as well as a cover of "I Will Always Love You", the love ballad made famous by Whitney Houston and Dolly Parton.
Lzzy and Amy performed a quarantine rendition of "Break In" in May 2020 on Hale's Internet show "Raise Your Horns With Lzzy Hale".
Speaking about the collaboration, Lzzy told Amy: "What I love about dueting on that song with you is that it started out as as love song that I wrote for my significant other" — referring to HALESTORM guitarist Joe Hottinger — "but when we sing it together, it's this act of unity, especially with the two of us being women and being women musicians. It's like we have each other's backs. And the lyrics mean something completely different when I sing it [with you]."
Regarding the way the new version of "Break In" was recorded, Lzzy said: "We did it performance-style, literally next to each other in the same room — from beginning of song to end of song, singing with each other.
"I've never done anything like that, but especially with a female singer of your prowess."
Amy added: "Nick always gets the challenge and gets the most out of me… So he made us stand there in the room and sing it live together a bunch of times. What that really means is that editing, you couldn't use when you did something cool but I messed up; it would have to be that we both nailed it for it to make the cut. So to do it in that way was really challenging and it was really cool and it fits the song so well.
"I remember you saying, and we both were saying, when we were listening back, it's really weird, at times — I know my part, but you can't pick out whose voice that is in that one particular moment, 'cause we started matching each other, 'cause it was on the spot. It's really cool how that happens.
"It feels like a match. It doesn't feel like any one person is pulling the other person along a little bit or leading the train. It really felt like an evenly matched dance."
Lzzy and Amy originally performed "Break In" together in 2012 during the "Carnival Of Madness" tour, which was headlined by EVANESCENCE and featured HALESTORM in the support slot. At the time, Hale told Zoiks! Online about how the live collaboration came about: "It's funny. We had talked in the beginning of the tour, 'Oh, we should do something.' What would we do? Do we do a cover? Do I come out during her set? She came up to me, I think it was two weeks in and said, 'I'm obsessed with your song 'Break In' right now.' I was like, 'Thank you so much.' Then she said, 'I know all of your parts, all the backing parts and everything.' I was like, 'Sweet, that's awesome.' Then she said, 'This is going to sound really weird and please feel free to say no, but do you think I could come up during that song and sing it with you?' I'm, like, 'Of course. This is awesome.' We didn't have a whole lot of time to rehearse. We literally ran through it once before our show in El Paso, right before the doors opened. It was perfect. I told her, queue insane crowd noise. She was like, 'Oh, I don't know.' 'No, seriously — they're going to freak when you walk out on stage.' ... [And] they did. We couldn't hear each other for the first four lines."
Back in 2021, EVANESCENCE and HALESTORM joined forces for a massive North American tour that ended up being a rousing success.
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1 ноя 2024
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1 ноя 2024
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Venues
