Mike Portnoy is walking you through his latest vinyl collection is a series of eight videos. Episode #2 focuses on new reissues, B - F. Watch below:

Episode #1 focuses on new reissues, A - B:

BPMD - the new juggernaut featuring Portnoy, along with heavy metal icons Bobby Blitz (Overkill) on vocals, bassist Mark Menghi (Metal Allegiance) and guitarist Phil Demmel (Vio-lence, ex-Machine Head) - will release their full-length album of '70s rock covers, American Made, this Friday, June 12, via Napalm Records.

The members of BPMD have revealed their third single, the charging new version of Grand Funk Railroad's classic anthem, "We're An American Band". Check out the raucous new rendition via the lyric video below.

Bassist Mark Menghi says about "We're An American Band": “The goal of American Made was, and is, to pay tribute to some of the great music of the '70s, in particular, American music from the 70’s. We love music from all over the world; England, Germany, Brazil, Canada, Australia, etc... but at the end of the day, we are an American band, so it made sense to pay tribute to one of the greatest American bands of the '70s by covering one of the greatest songs of that decade by the mighty Grand Funk... Being that this song was originally written about being on tour, we’ve been reminiscing about days on the road and how much we miss our fans! Touring is the lifeblood of most bands - we can’t wait to perform some shows and play these BPMD tunes, and see music flourish in a live setting once again.”  

Frontman Bobby Blitz adds: "'American Band', in my opinion was the icing on the cake for this project. The idea of American Made, the 70's called for it. The song was iconic then and truly stood the test of time. The call and answer between my vox and Phil's guitar on the outro make the track that much more special."

It’s evident within the initial seconds of BPMD’s American Made, as the legendary Bobby Blitz chants the introductory lyrics to Ted Nugent’s “Wang Dang Sweet Poontang” in his signature skyscraper-high howl, that he and his equally iconic bandmates are here to have a damn good time. Featuring 10 unforgettable rock classics reimagined as heavy bangers, American Made is a party on wax. Tracks such as the raucous “Toys in the Attic” (Aerosmith) and rager-ready “Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers” (ZZ Top) prove that BPMD not only manages to capture the essence of each original track on the album, but skillfully transforms each classic into an unforgettable metallic anthem for a new age. The seasoned quartet flex their musical muscles on renowned classics such as “Saturday Night Special” (Lynyrd Skynyrd), “We’re an American Band” (Grand Funk Railroad) and “Walk Away” (James Gang), and introduce a whole new heavy generation to deeper cuts like blues standard “Evil” (Cactus/Willie Dixon) and “Never In My Life” (Mountain). Channeling nostalgia while maintaining a fresh attitude, American Made is a summer soundtrack for all ages.

After connecting over their mutual love for the classics and forming their current line-up, the members of BPMD traveled to drummer Mike Portnoy’s home studio in Pennsylvania and set up shop. Since the whole concept of the band was born the night Menghi was listening to “Saturday Night Special”, BPMD were determined to record the song for the album. Beyond that, each musician picked two ‘70s rock tracks and everyone had to learn them!

American Made was mixed and mastered by Mark Lewis, also known for his work with Metal Allegiance (featuring Mark Menghi), as well as artists such as DevilDriver, Trivium, and many others.

American Made will be available in the following formats:

- 1-CD Jewel Case
- 1-LP Gatefold Black
- 1-LP Gatefold Red/White/Blue Splatter (NPR Mailorder exclusive)
- American Made T-Shirt + Jewel Case Bundle (NPR Mailorder exclusive)
- American Made T-Shirt + Vinyl Black Bundle (NPR Mailorder exclusive / North America ONLY)
- American Made T-Shirt + Vinyl Red/White/Blue Splatter Bundle (NPR Mailorder exclusive / North America ONLY)
- Digital Album

Pre-order here.

American Made tracklisting:

"Wang Dang Sweet Poontang"
"Toys In The Attic"
"Evil"
"Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers"
"Saturday Night Special"
"Tattoo Vampire"
"D.O.A."
"Walk Away"
"Never In My Life"
"We're An American Band"

"Evil" guitar playthrough:

"Evil" drum playthrough:

"Evil" lyric video:

"Toys In The Attic" video:

"Toys In The Attic" drum playthrough video:

"Toys In The Attic" guitar playthrough video:

“Absolutely f*cking brilliant! God bless the real music krankers of America! Godspeed!" - Ted Nugent

”Turbocharged version of D.O.A. by BPMD. These guys are rocking!” - Michael Anthony (Chickenfoot, ex-Van Halen)

(BPMD photo - Scott Diussa)




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Mike Portnoy

Riot Act have released their latest video, featuring a re-recording of the classic Riot song, "Overdrive", which was featured on the band's first album ,Rock City. The song is a tribute to the late Lou Kouvaris, who played on the song and the original debut album, and suddenly died due to COVID-19 on March 28.

Guitarist Rick Ventura told The Metal Voice that they will continue to perform and write new material. As for who will replace Lou, the extra guitar duties for now will be done by lead singer, Don Chaffin.

Watch the new video below:

Original Riot guitarist Lou A. Kouvaris - who appeared on the first Riot album Rock City (1977) and wrote songs for Narita (1979) - tested positive for COVID-19 and passed away due to complications on March 28, 2020 in Long Island, New York. He was 66 years old.




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Riot Act

2

In the new video below, Sweetwater's Nick Bowcott (ex-Grim Reaper) performs Chicago's 70s hit, "24 Or 6 To 4", played the 80's metal way.

A message states: "Chicago's '25 Or 6 To 4; is a classic - now check out how it sounds as an '80s metal rocker with Nick Bowcott!"




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Chicago

Volbeat lead guitarist, Rob Caggiano, joins Guitar World to teach you how to play Rewind, Replay, Rebound lead single, "Leviathan", in its entirety. Tabs available here.

In addition to teaching the track, he also offers up some serious eye candy, repping his latest signature guitar, the Jackson Rob Caggiano Shadowcaster with DiMarzio pickups. This is running through an Antelope Audio Zen Tour Synergy Core interface and a Neural DSP Granophyre digital amp modeler.




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Volbeat

Caligula’s Horse, hailing from Brisbane, Australia, a leading light in contemporary progressive metal worldwide, recently released their new album, Rise Radiant. Produced by the group’s guitarist Sam Vallen, and mixed by Jens Bogren (Opeth, Devin Townsend Project, Leprous), Rise Radiant is the band's most focussed and potent artistic statement to date.

Today the band launch the video for new single "Oceanrise", watch below.

Dale Prinsse comments: "'Oceanrise' frames life’s triumphs by celebrating the legacy we each leave behind in death. This was the first song written for the album, and represents Caligula’s Horse in a dynamic, colourful, and uplifting way. Performing in this music video was incredibly fun and full of smiles. The filming coalesced with the day we released our fifth album ‘Rise Radiant’, and the first time the band had seen each other in person for many months. We hope you enjoy it."

The band are also celebrating their highest chart positions yet, including hitting number 23 in the Australian charts. Find the full list of results below:

Rise Radiant is an uncompromising exploration of the human experience dressed in vivid musical colour and virtuosic performances. It is an anthem for the regeneration of self-belief, an exploration of the themes of legacy, and a rallying cry for survival. Comprised of 8 tracks, Rise Radiant is available as a limited CD Digipak, Gatefold 2LP + CD and as digital download. The formats also include two bonus tracks: covers of the Split Enz track "Message To My Girl" and Peter Gabriel’s "Don’t Give Up", which also features a guest appearance by Lynsey Ward of Exploring Birdsong.

Order here.

Tracklist:

"The Tempest"
"Slow Violence"
"Salt"
"Resonate"
"Oceanrise"
"Valkyrie"
"Autumn"
"The Ascent"




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Caligula's Horse

Past and present members of COLD, CROBOT, CANDLEBOX, BREAKING BENJAMIN, EARSHOT and LIFER have united to record one of the most iconic songs of our generation. As part of Nick Coyle's (guitarist for COLD and singer for LIFER) "Corona Sessions" series, which features a rotating list of all-star musicians recreating the music that inspired them from their respected quarantine headquarters, the rockers teamed up to unleash a masterful live version of TEMPLE OF THE DOG's "Hunger Strike".

The "Corona Sessions: Hunger Strike" video features Coyle on vocals, Brandon Yeagley (CROBOT) on vocals, Chris Bishop (CROBOT) on guitar, Aaron Fink (LIFER, EARSHOT, ex-BREAKING BENJAMIN) on guitar, Chad Szeliga (BLACK STAR RIDERS, WALKING WITH LIONS, ex-BREAKING BENJAMIN) on drums, Brian Quinn (CANDLEBOX) on acoustic guitar, and Adam Kury (CANDLEBOX) on bass.

According to Coyle, his mission for the project is to "bring artists together despite social distancing and offer fans a sense of inclusiveness during these troubling times."

"The only good thing that has come out of this whole COVID-19 shut down is that now musicians who may have never have had the opportunity to collaborate before now have the time to do so," Coyle said.

Coyle said he and the musicians specifically selected "Hunger Strike" not only because of its importance to the 1990s music scene and the impact it had on each of them as musicians but because of the relevance it still has today.

"'Hunger Strike' is one of those songs that will always be relevant," he said. "That's the genius of Chris Cornell. His music and lyrics are timeless."

Prior to "Hunger Strike", Coyle released a masterful version of FILTER's Billboard-topping hit "Take A Picture" with past and present members of FILTER, COLD, BREAKING BENJAMIN, CANDLEBOX and LIFER.

Temple of the Dog

Drum legend Mike Portnoy (Sons Of Apollo, The Winery Dogs, ex-Dream Theater) has covered John Lennon's "Gimme Some Truth", handling all drums, vocals, guitars and bass for the track. He has also released a video for the song prefaced with the following message:

"I’m sorry if this video pisses some of you off...but sadly this is America in 2020 and it pisses me off too.

This a song written by a man who not only wrote songs about peace, love and hope ('All You Need Is Love', 'Give Peace A Chance', 'Imagine') but also used his voice to speak up against racism, injustice and encouraged people to rise up ('Revolution', 'Come Together', and this song). If this song or video pisses you off, remember I am only holding up a mirror to what is happening in this country right now.

If you don’t like what you see, please use that anger, passion and longing for change to vote in November..."




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Mike Portnoy

Finnish melodic death metal band Limos is set to release a new EP, Tales Of The White Eye, on July 3rd via Inverse Records. The second single, "Child Of The White Eye" is released today and you can watch video below.

Vocalist Eirik Manne comments: "'Child Of The White Eye' was an interesting song to make. Lyrically, it continues in the same universe 'Altars' is set in, and explores the oracles of said world. It shows the hardships they endure, while finding their own place. Although the lyrics are oldest of the tracks on the EP, it took a long while for the song to settle to it's current form. The end result however is a track where we push ourselves to see where our limits are. The vocals are some of the most varied we've used up to this point, and if there is one track that showcases our evolution, it is this one."
 

Limos is a melodic death metal band that escaped the woods of Kainuu, Finland in 2017. As the forests were left behind, the band took with them the elements that defines their music; melodic riffs across the board, supported by harsh vocals. Goal at the end of the road? Be part of the next generation of Finnish Melodic Death Metal.

Tracklist:

"Altars"
"Rise To Arms"
"Child Of The White Eye"
"Surullisten Järvien Maa"

"Altars"

 

Pre-save Tales Of The White Eye on Spotify & Amazon here.




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Limos

In a span of just five years, Northern Germany's destructive duo Mantar have toured all over the world and recorded three studio albums, a live record, and an EP. With no signs of calming the storm, the duo have decided to showcase their musical roots and record a DIY covers album entitled Grungetown Hooligans II, showcasing their versions of their biggest influences from the ‘90s. 

Mantar have shared a music video for their cover of Sonic Youth’s “100%”. The VHS style music video is a direct homage to the original and was directed by the band and Matthis Van Der Meulen. Grungetown Hooligans II will be released via Brutal Panda Records on June 26. Preorder here.

"‘100%’ was the first song I´ve ever heard from Sonic Youth. Probably on some old mixtape I got from Erinc (drums). The song just rocks, is short and spot on. Perfect Rock 'n Roll. It still gives me the chills and was the perfect gateway drug for all the wonderful music this exceptional band had to offer. Obviously our video is a homage to the original video and therefore a big bonus for us skateboard pros."

While Mantar have always been categorized in the “metal” scene, the musical socialization of both members undoubtedly took place in a completely different world in the early 1990s. The time was about noise rock, Riot Grrrl bands and what was marketed by MTV as “grunge”, or even worse as “alternative rock”. These sounds greatly appealed to two moderately cool kids in a very uncool, post-Cold War era Germany. 

As teenagers, the guys immediately gravitated towards the aggression, message, and uncompromising attitudes of bands like Babes In Toyland, 7 Year Bitch, L7, Sonic Youth, The Jesus Lizard, Mudhoney, Mazzy Star and others of the era that is still unmatched to this day. Even back then, the term “grunge” was as silly as the words “punk” or “heavy metal”, so the similar shitty title of Grungetown Hooligans II was quickly decided to pay tribute to the era and artists that influenced the band to become one of the heaviest and sonically destructive acts making music today.

Tracklisting:

“The Bomb” – L7
“The Jesus Lizard” – Puss
“100%” – Sonic Youth
“Ghost Highway” – Mazzy Star
“Can I Run” – L7
“Bruise Violet” – Babes In Toyland
“Who You Drivin’ Now” – Mudhoney
“Knot” – 7 Year Bitch

“100%” video:

(Photo by: Christoph Eisenmenger)




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Mantar

Relapse Records will release Zombi's new album, 2020, on July 17. Their first new album in 5 years, 2020 showcases the songwriting prowess that has pushed the duo of Steve Moore (synthesizers, guitars, bass) and A.E. Paterra (drums) to evolve throughout their storied, 20-year career. A music video for the track “Earthscraper", directed by Tony Balko, can be seen below.

Regarding the track, drummer A.E. Paterra comments: “A heavy song, and an even heavier video by director Tony Balko. We’ve been excited to share this - it’s heavy in a new way for us and we hope you enjoy it.”

In addition, Zombi will be holding a raffle for a test pressing of 2020, with all proceeds going to the Bukit Bail Fund of Pittsburgh and Black Visions Collective.  Details can be found on ZOMBI’s Instagram and Facebook accounts.

A.E. Paterra comments on 2020: "20 years ago I wouldn't have expected us to still be writing music - but we've managed to stick together and continually improve our production and engineering techniques, which makes this whole process completely rewarding. As always we've tried to make a different album this time around, and we hope our fans will enjoy it as much as we do."

2020 will be available on CD/LP/Digital. Physical packages are available for pre-order via Relapse.com here. Digital Downloads / Streaming Services are available here.

Zombi has strived to build upon and expand their sound with every release. Now more than ever, the band stays true to their ethos. From the pulse-pounding, dramatic opener "Breakthrough & Conquer", to the melodic bass whirls found in "XYZT", 2020 proves to be Zombi's most riff-intensive album. At first a soundtrack of driving musical euphoria, 2020 takes a sharp turn into uncharted waters - "Earthscraper" is reminiscent of a space where sounds of sludge and doomlike-riff crushers dominate the soundscapes. Synthwave and neon crescendos are furloughed in favor of Blue Öyster Cult-inspired progressive epics. A truly therapeutic loop of immersive instrumental rock, 2020 might just be Zombi's most ambitious album yet.

Tracklisting:

"Breakthrough & Conquer"
"Earthscraper"
"No Damage"
"XYZT"
"Fifth Point Of The Pentangle"
"Family Man"
"Mountain Ranges"
"First Flower"
"Thoughtforms"

"Breakthrough & Conquer":

(Photo - Matt Dayak)




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Zombi

Italian orchestral death metallers, Fleshgod Apocalypse, have released an official guitar playthrough video for "Sugar", performed by Fabio Bartoletti, from the album Veleno, out worldwide via Nuclear Blast Records.

The band states: "'Sugar' has become an instant classic right after its release. It features some of the most inspired and also technically demanding riffs in the band's history. Have fun watching Fabio nailing it!"

Get the album here, and watch the new video below:

The band recently released a drum playthrough for "Thru Our Scars", taken from the band's first EP, Mafia, back in 2010.

Said the band: "To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Mafia, we picked one of our most iconic and challenging songs for the next playthrough video: 'Thru Our Scars'. Eugene Ryabchenko is doing the honors this time. Enjoy!"




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Fleshgod Apocalypse

1

German medieval rock masters Feuerschwanz will release their new album, Das Elfte Gabton, on June 26 via Napalm Records. The band have released the official music video for the cover of "Ding", the #1 club hit by Berlin, Germany-based pop act, Seeed. Watch below.

The song comes off the bonus covers album Die Sieben Todsünden, which will be released as part of the deluxe version of  Das Elfte Gebot, and features Rage Of Light and Ad Infinitum singer Melissa Bonny on vocals.

Commented the band: "Here's that DING (english: thing)! Today we present to you the fourth video off of our new album Das elfte Gebot: the dancehall hit 'Ding' by dance raggae giants Seeed from 2005 - transformed into the band’s patented folk metal sound featuring the amazing Melissa Bonny on vocals! Seeed with heavy guitars, hurdy gurdies, flutes, jaw harps, a rapping knight and a growling warrior... impossible? Feuerschwanz: Hold my mead! Ladies, hide your wedding rings, Hauptmann is in town!"

Das Elfte Gebot is the successor of 2018's extremely successful album, Methämmer, and can be pre-ordered here.

Das Elfte Gebot tracklisting:

"Meister der Minne"
"Metfest"
"Das elfte Gebot"
"Kampfzwerg"
"Im Bauch des Wals"
"Mission Eskalation"
"Schildmaid"
"Malleus Maleficarum"
"Lords Of Powermet"
"Totentanz"
"Unter dem Drachenbanner"

Die Sieben Todsünden (bonus covers album) tracklisting:

"Ding" (Seeed)
"Hier kommt Alex" (Die Toten Hosen)
"Amen & Attack" (Powerwolf)
"I See Fire" (Ed Sheeran)
"Gott mit uns" (Sabaton)
"Limit" (Deichkind)
"Engel" (Rammstein)

"I See Fire" video:

Track-By-Track videos:

Part 1:

Part 2:

Lineup:

Hauptmann Feuerschwanz - vocals, guitars
Johanna von der Vögelweide - fiddle, hurdy gurdy
Sir Lanzeflott - drums
Jarne Hodinsson - bass
Prinz Hodenherz - winds, vocals
Hans der Aufrechte - guitars




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Feuerschwanz

OVERKILL/SHADOWS FALL drummer Jason Bittner has teamed up with guitarists Felipe Roa (SHADOWS FALL) and Bobby Koeble (DEATH), and bassist Steve DiGiorgio (TESTAMENT, DEATH) to record a quarantine cover version of DEATH's "Overactive Imagination", with each musician separated in his own home.

Bittner uploaded a video of the performance to his YouTube channel, writing in an accompanying message: "Well there's a bunch of explaining that goes along with this video and a history of sorts…

"After the whole pandemic started, I contacted my longtime friend and former bandmate Felipe Roa (SHADOWS FALL touring guitarist after Jon joined ANTHRAX) to see if he wanted to do some 'quarantine covers' and I proposed 'Wake Up Dead' by MEGADETH, and by now you have seen that one. At the time of discussion Felipe asked if I wanted to do a DEATH tune, knowing that they are one of my all-time fave bands as well as his, and we used to jam DEATH in soundchecks all the time. Initially my first reaction 'ummmm, I don't know if I want to do that much WORK, hahaha,' but as soon as he said 'Overactive Imagination' I was in – I used to jam this song all the time in my formative years but I did wonder if I could still pull it off. After a couple days of shedding and trying to be 25 again, we had a completed drum track, which I even sent to my pals (former DEATH drummers) Richard Christy and Gene Hoglan for 'approval'. Sean [Reinert] already gave me the green light from Heaven.

"At first we were just going to do it the two of us, but I had a plan. Here's some crazy trivia – while I attended Berklee College of Music in the 80's, I played in a band with Bobby Koeble and we actually recorded a few original songs wayyyyyy back in the late 80's. Bobby later went on to join DEATH for the Symbolic album and still plays in DEATH TO ALL. After not speaking for over 30 years I hit up Bobby, reconnected (which I'd been meaning to do for years) and asked him if he wanted to do this tune with us and he said yes right away. He asked who was playing bass and I told him Felipe probably would do that too… unless… 'Unless what?' Unless I can get Steve to do it… So the next point was to contact my friend, and one of the greatest bass players out there, Mr. Steve DiGiorgio to see if this could be possible.

"At first Steve wasn't sure if he could commit due to his many projects, so we actually asked our friend Bill Bodily (Ex- TOXIK, FLOTSAM AND JETSAM touring bassist) to do the bass since Steve wasn't available. In the meantime, I had sent Steve the track after we put Bobby on it just to 'make sure' he couldn't do it. I had a feeling if Bobby committed, Steve would follow. A week later he did send his tracks, so first off THANK YOU to Steve for going above and beyond in such a quick and timely manner, and also to Bill for being our 'backup', sorry it didn't work out – next time!

"So there you have it folks, we put a lot of work into this one because we absolutely love this band in every incarnation, and I am proud to say that I am friends with a lot of the people who have played in their ranks so… so this one goes out to… Terry Butler, James Murphy, Richard Christy, and Gene Hoglan. Lastly, a moment to remember past members Scott Clendenin, my former bandmate and friend Ralph Santolla, my longtime friend and mentor Sean Reinert, and lastly the one and only Chuck Schuldiner for being one of the greatest songwriters to ever grace the Metal world!! Enjoy and share!!"

Death

4

METALLICA has posted another video as part of its new concert series, "#MetallicaMondays", where the band is streaming a complete live show for fans on the group's YouTube channel and on Facebook every week. The latest concert to be shared was recorded on January 2, 1997 at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. The audio includes two soundboard sources — the second, superior source doesn't kick in until two-thirds of the way through "Whiplash".

The band said in a statement, "While we're all doing our part and staying home, we find ourselves missing live music, so how about we dive back into a few of our favorite shows at a socially responsible distance?"

METALLICA has been largely out of the public eye since last fall when the band canceled an Australian tour and announced that frontman James Hetfield was returning to rehab for the first time since 2002 to battle his addictions.

Hetfield made his first major public appearance since entering rehab on January 30, when an exhibit featuring 10 of his classic custom cars opened at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles.

In March, METALLICA announced that its South American tour, which was originally planned for April, has been postponed until December. In addition, the band's appearances at four Danny Wimmer Presents-produced festivals in May and September have been canceled: Epicenter in Charlotte, Welcome To Rockville in Daytona, Sonic Temple in Columbus and Louder Than Life in Louisville.

Guitarist Kirk Hammett told The Pulse Of Radio not long ago that METALLICA has to be in better than average shape to play its music live. "There's a physicality to our music that we cannot ignore, so we just kind of have to keep ourselves in a certain sort of physical sort of state where that we can't let ourselves get to a point where we can't play these songs," he said. "That's just not allowed. When we write this music, we have to make sure that we can play it and play it when we need to play it."

Metallica

3

BPMD — the new heavy metal juggernaut featuring vocalist Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth (OVERKILL), drummer Mike Portnoy (THE WINERY DOGS, SONS OF APOLLO), bassist Mark Menghi (METAL ALLEGIANCE) and guitarist Phil Demmel (VIO-LENCE, ex-MACHINE HEAD) — will release its debut album, "American Made", on June 12 via Napalm Records. The 10-track homage to some of rock music's greatest treasures is turbocharged by the experience and enthusiasm of its four creators.

Today, the members of BPMD have revealed their third single, the charging new version of GRAND FUNK RAILROAD's classic anthem "We're An American Band". Check out the raucous new rendition below.

Menghi says about "We're An American Band": "The goal of 'American Made' was, and is, to pay tribute to some of the great music of the '70s, in particular American music from the '70s. We love music from all over the world; England, Germany, Brazil, Canada, Australia, etc… but at the end of the day, we are an American band, so it made sense to pay tribute to one of the greatest American bands of the '70s by covering one of the greatest songs of that decade by the mighty GRAND FUNK…

"Being that this song was originally written about being on tour, we've been reminiscing about days on the road and how much we miss our fans. Touring is the lifeblood of most bandse.

"We can't wait to perform some shows and play these BPMD tunes, and see music flourish in a live setting once again.”

Blitz adds: "'American Band', in my opinion was the icing on the cake for this project. The idea of 'American Made', the '70s called for it. The song was iconic then and truly stood the test of time. The call and answer between my vox and Phil's guitar on the outro make the track that much more special."

It's evident within the initial seconds of BPMD's "American Made", as Blitz chants the introductory lyrics to Ted Nugent's "Wang Dang Sweet Poontang" in his signature skyscraper-high howl, that he and his equally iconic bandmates are here to have a damn good time. Featuring 10 unforgettable rock classics reimagined as heavy bangers, "American Made" is a party on wax. Tracks such as the raucous "Toys In The Attic" and rager-ready "Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers" (ZZ TOP) prove that BPMD not only manages to capture the essence of each original track on the album, but skillfully transforms each classic into an unforgettable metallic anthem for a new age. The seasoned quartet flex their musical muscles on renowned classics such as "Saturday Night Special" (LYNYRD SKYNYRD), "We're An American Band" (GRAND FUNK RAILROAD) and "Walk Away" (JAMES GANG), and introduce a whole new heavy generation to deeper cuts like "Evil" and "Never In My Life" (MOUNTAIN). Channeling nostalgia while maintaining a fresh attitude, "American Made" is a summer soundtrack for all ages.

Menghi remarked on BPMD's origins: "Last summer, right after the Fourth of July, I was sitting in my backyard. I was listening to a bunch of '70s stuff and LYNYRD SKYNYRD's 'Saturday Night Special' came on. I said, 'Man, I would love to play that song,' and my eight-year-old son turned to me and said, 'You should do a record of all these songs, Dad.' And I was like, 'Hmmm? Yeah, why not!?!'"

After connecting over their mutual love for the classics and forming their current line-up, the members of BPMD traveled to Portnoy's home studio in Pennsylvania and set up shop. Since the whole concept of the band was born the night Menghi was listening to "Saturday Night Special", BPMD were determined to record the song for the album. Beyond that, each musician picked two '70s rock tracks and everyone had to learn them!

Menghi chose "Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers" in addition to "Saturday Night Special". Blitz's choices were a little more obscure — "Never In My Life" replete with cowbell and a blazing repeated blues lick, and CACTUS's version of "Evil", a fiercely ZEPPELIN-like take on an old Willie Dixon song. For his tracks, Demmel picked "D.O.A." and had a blast channeling his inner Eddie Van Halen, and took a deep dive with "Tattoo Vampire". Recalling the days when Ted Nugent was more of a bad boy than a gunslinger, Portnoy picked "Wang Dang Sweet Poontang", in additon to "Toys In The Attic".

Menghi, who also co-produced "American Made", added: "We didn't go into it trying to make everything metal, we just wanted to play the way we play and this is what you get... we've all been influenced by a wide variety of bands including BLACK SABBATH, JUDAS PRIEST, IRON MAIDEN and METALLICA. So, of course, we're going to attack the songs a little harder than guys that didn't grow up on heavy music."

Blitz stated: "We made sure we did high-quality versions of these songs and gave them all a little twist. I think there's a place for that in the music world today. There's something really great about nostalgia, especially if it's reimagined."

"American Made" was mixed and mastered by Mark Lewis, also known for his work with METAL ALLEGIANCE (featuring Menghi and Portnoy), as well as artists such as DEVILDRIVER, TRIVIUM, and many others.

"American Made" track listing:

01. Wang Dang Sweet Poontang (TED NUGENT cover)

02. Toys In The Attic (AEROSMITH cover)

03. Evil (CACTUS cover)

04. Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers (ZZ TOP cover)

05. Saturday Night Special (LYNYRD SKYNYRD cover)

06. Tattoo Vampire (BLUE ÖYSTER CULT cover)

07. D.O.A. (VAN HALEN cover)

08. Walk Away (THE JAMES GANG cover)

09. Never In My Life (MOUNTAIN cover)

10. We're An American Band (GRAND FUNK RAILROAD cover)

BPMD

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Canada's Devin Townsend has posted a new video clip with the following message:

"Okay, so, a few years ago, myself and the DTP band had the privilege of playing a show with friends Opeth and Gojira at their show at the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre in Colorado. Both of those bands professionally filmed and recorded their shows and have released DVDs of it. I did not record this show, but have been asked by people if I could find a song from it. 

Fortunately, a few people on YouTube posted footage (thanks to MRYNCRISPY, TwilightCalzone - who we could reach for approval - and also I used a bit from videos by Melanion and Trapper, whom we wrote but couldn't reach, but hopefully its cool) as well as our good buddy Neil Lim Sang for his great still photos here as well. This is truly a very lo-fi live video, but it at least gets the point across. It was a fun show and it was nice to be invited to play.

Thanks to Callum for talking to the YouTube folks and Mike St Jean for helping me figure out some Premiere Pro tricks. Hope you're all doing well, and there's lots more content coming your way soon. Keep fighting the good fight, and try not to let the bad days grind you down."

Philipp Koch at DrumTalk recently posted unreleased live footage of the Devin Townsend Project performing "Bad Devil" in Frankfurt, Germany in 2014 along with the following message:

"Back in 2014, I had the opportunity to film a Devin Townsend Project show at Batschkapp, Frankfurt in my hometown on my birthday! Here is some of that footage for you to bang and dance to, so ladies and gentlemen -- ENJOY!"

Photo by Neil Lim Sang 




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Devin Townsend

Wisconsin's Bourbon House, comprised of vocalist Lacey Crowe, guitarist Jason Clark, drummer Ryan Sargent, and bassist Johnny Pries is all about blending the blues and rock & roll.

Today they released the video for their latest single, the hard-hitting and gritty rock song “Too High To Care”. The song was recorded and produced at the legendary Rustbelt Studios in Detroit, MI with engineer Steve Lehane (The Black Dahlia Murder, Citizen Zero), it's the first of five new tracks scheduled to be released this year.

"’Too High To Care’ is a very free-spirited, zero apologies, own-your-shit-proudly kind of song,” declares lead singer Lacey Crowe. “I think the video reflects that. We're a rock band having fun, setting up in random places during a massive lockdown and performing for three people hanging out on their porches across the street. You're basically coming along for the ride with us and watching our 13-hour video shoot day unfold."

During that shoot, they stumbled on a small freezer inside the abandoned building where the first sequence was filmed. Inside that freezer was a bag of bones and the band and crew were convinced they were human remains. After calling the sheriff to report the finding, it turns out that they were most likely chicken bones. Says Crowe, “Or at least a huge chicken that may have had human teeth!”

While Bourbon House has performed extensively throughout the Midwest and beyond, including club shows in Chicago, Minneapolis, Milwaukee, and most recently in Nashville with supporting slots for Crobot and Jasmine Cain, an extensive 2020 tour has been postponed due to the efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. Bourbon House is using this off-time to rehearse and create a live show bigger and better than before.

"Too High To Care" isn't the first video from Bourbon House. Check out their previously released clip for "Devil On My Heels".

For further details, visit BourbonHouseRocks.com.

(Photo credit: Maryrose Pries Photography)

 




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Bourbon House

Sophisticated, progressive, and refined, Los Angeles based progressive metallers Lufeh (a band of both Brazilian and American musicians) meanders through jazz styles, heavy metal foundations, and rhythmic Brazilian influences. 

Released in April of 2020, Luggage Falling Down was a trying, yet successful first recording for these recently banded musicians who lived together for two weeks throughout the process. Having lost the original singer a month before recording began, the intrepid bunch found hope with Dennis Atlas, who fell in step with the rest of the band immediately. This bond between the members can be seen in their videos along with their high energy and knack for performing.

Luggage Falling Down is a unique melodic story that is finalized with the single “The Edge”. Drummer Lufeh Batera shares their thoughts on the track: “'The Edge' could really just as well be called 'Living By The Edge Of Desire'.  As the album’s final statement, it leaves the listener in a state of trust and bravery to go out on the edge and take the leap into living life to the fullest.”

For fans of Rush, Dream Theater, and Incubus, Lufeh is smooth and rhythmic progressive metal; heavy chords followed by light melodies and the occasional crazy guitar solo.

Lufefh's new album Luggage Falling Down is available for stream and download on Bandcamp, Spotify, and Apple Music.

Tracklisting:

"Find My Way"
"The Unknown"
"Doors"
"Trial Of Escapade"
"My World"
"End Of The Road"
"Escape"
"The Edge"

LUGGAGE FALLING DOWN by LUFEHBAND

 

 




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Lufeh

HighVolMusic and Asphalt Valentine announce February 28 as the worldwide release date for the group’s new studio album, Twisted Road. Special pre-order bundles start on Valentines Day, February 14.

Vocalist Joe Flynt states: “The whole band is excited to be releasing another record. It's been 5 years or so since we did the Into The Red EP and a lot has changed with the band. We almost called it a day a while back but then I got a call from another band from the area to fill in on vocals. While I was out on the road with them my creative energy started to flow again. When I got back from the road, I was so fired up and ready to get back at it I called the guys up and we started to finish writing and recording 'Twisted Road'. It all came together pretty quickly once everyone was back in band mode. I feel like we’ve put together something really special, and I'm looking forward to hearing what the fans think about it. We're all so proud of this album. It’s definitely a big jump from our previous efforts and the material is so much stronger now.”

HVM CEO, Bill Chavis adds: “Joe called me about getting back in the game and asked if I would be interested in listening to some new material. I said sure, I've always love what AV has done. We released Strip Rock Roll back in 08/09 and its such a great record but the new material is just so much more. It's simply amazing and really really strong. 2020 is going to be an extremely exciting year for Asphalt Valentine. This third album is the going to take people by surprise. Mark my words, you will love this album!”

Asphalt Valentine is based in Atlanta, GA and got its start in the early 2000's. They signed with Chavis Records now HighVolMusic and released their debut Strip Rock Roll in 2008. The band toured the US with Mama Kin from Sweden on the Summer of Sin Tour. In 2013 the band self released their Into The Red EP as well as released a video for the track "Living Dreams". In 2015 the band  began working on what is now Twisted Road and released a video for the track "The Only" before going on hiatus. "The Only" was originally conceived when the band was approached by author/film maker/adventurist Joey Shonka to write some music for one of his documentary-style films. Shonka, a life long friend of vocalist Joe Flynt, specifically wanted something to accompany his latest movie about his years long journey across the entire Andes Mountains range in South America - a journey he did alone. "The Only" conveys the physical and emotional toll of isolation, endless perseverance, and the spiritual connection one must make within themselves to strive onward in one of the most formidable environments on planet Earth. The video contains footage of the recording sessions as well as clips from Shonka's latest self-shot movie, The Shonkadventure.

With renewed excitement and energy the band returned to work on the recordings and as previously announced, Asphalt Valentine signed with HighVolMusic in 2019 before putting the final touches on the album. Twisted Road was recorded at Dirty Little Secret Studios in Atlanta, GA and is self produced. Mixing is being handled by Andy Reilly (Asia, Praying Mantis, UFO) at Muse Productions also in Atlanta, GA. The first single and title track, "Twisted Road", hits radio this week and is being quarterbacked by Jody Best of Best Bet Promo.

Tracklisting:

"Twisted Road"
"The Only"
"I Don't Care"
"Saving"
"Something More"
"As The Crow Flies"
"Shamefully"
"Ooh La La"
"Dixie Rose"
"Rain"
 
"The Only" video:

Asphalt Valentine hits the road in March in support of Twisted Road and will be performing at The Ballroom Blitz in Baltimore on March 21 with Beasto Blanco, Tokyo Motor Fist, Tora Tora and many more.




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Asphalt Valentine

The Swiss Misses recently had another defection, guitarist Sonia Nusselder having decided to go her own way. Thus the remaining Witches opted for a short acoustic showcase, with a couple of onscreen (yet remotely located) guests, for Corona relief. Enter US-based Courtney Cox, no, not the Friends actress, but six-string slinger for The Iron Maidens, and Brazilian born Noelle Dos Anjos, the latter currently holed up in Berlin. Not sure if singer Laura Guldemond was simply in a sound booth, offstage (as there were a trio of Witches, plus Switzerland's Larissa Ernst, ex-Gonoreas, in the rehearsal space) or at home, in the Netherlands. Regardless, they were all linked, via headphones. It was just a trio of songs, thankfully, all Burning Witches originals, but surely, the first opportunity many of the global viewers have had to see the gals "live". Unfortunately, one of their biggest assets, the gonzo stage presence of singer Laura Guldemond was kept in check, this being an acoustic performance. Shame, but even under lockdown conditions, it was evident she's a wild woman, once the music flows.

There was no real introduction, nor much banter, beyond the singer introducing the songs, although each title was superimposed on the screen, with the featured guitarist. First up, was "Black Magic", a subdued song that lends itself to acoustic guitars (always at least at three in the mix) anyway. Throughout, the screen was black & white and (as is de ringeur today) a multi-person/split. Remotely located, bespectacled Cox offered a string bending solo spotlight, as each player gets a close-up. Cool to see a full drum kit involved. "We Eat Your Children" is an odd choice for the unplugged treatment. Guldemond getting more animated. You can see the flamboyance, even stationary. Noelle is the spotlight guitar player. Just as we were getting into "Dance With The Devil", the title cut from this year's sophomore effort. And then, that was it. Currently, there are negotiations underway with Nuclear Blast to have the show, in part or whole, on the band's social media or the label's site.




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Burning Witches