Bloodstock Festivals has released professionally-filmed video of Killswitch Engage performing "Rise Iside" at the 2023 edition of the festival. Previously released footage of the band performing "The Signal Fire" and "Rose Of Sharyn" at the same show can also be viewed below.
A message states: "2023 was a landmark year for Killswitch Engage, marking their first time headlining at the Bloodstock Festival. This performance was not only their UK festival headlining debut but also a significant moment for the band and their fans."
Killswitch Engage's next live performance is scheduled for April 18-19 at The Metal Fest Ecuador 2024 in Quito, Ecuador. Find the band's complete tour itinerary here.
Whitechapel's new live album, Live In The Valley, is out today and available across all digital platforms on Metal Blade Records. New live video for "This Is Exile" is available below.
Live In The Valley was captured live at the band's seventh annual Christmas Benefit Show on December 22, 2022 at The Mill & Mine in their hometown of Knoxville, Tennessee and features songs from the albums The Valley and Kin. The audio for Live In The Valley was recorded, engineered, mixed and mastered by Whitechapel guitarist Zach Householder and serves as a chapter closer before the band begins work on their ninth studio album.
“When A Demon Defiles A Witch”
“Forgiveness Is Weakness”
“Brimstone”
“Hickory Creek”
“Black Bear”
“Doom Woods”
“I Will Find You”
“A Bloodsoaked Symphony”
“Anticure”
“Lost Boy”
“Orphan”
“This Is Exile”
“The Saw Is The Law”
Death metal powerhouse Slaughterror is set to unleash their stunning debut EP, Endless Lust For Gore, on February 23 via Noble Demon.
Formed in 2022, Slaughterror is a formidable trio of talent hailing from the cold heart of Finland. Their music is a relentless onslaught of aggression and groove, capturing the essence of classic death metal. Drawing inspiration from American death metal giants like Six Feet Under and Cannibal Corpse, Slaughterror's sound takes you back to the golden era of the genre. The first single from the band's upcoming EP, entitled "Incarnation", is out now and accompanied by an intense video that perfectly complements the powerful death metal track.
Slaughterror comments: "‘Incarnation’ is a brutal and punchy death metal song about a man who projects his self-hatred upon the world, killing and tormenting anyone who he thinks is unworthy of this life. Crushing riffs and a great groove accompany this brutality."
Slaughterror's music is a testament to their deep love and admiration for the pioneers of the scene. While paying homage to the classics, they skillfully infuse their own modern twist, creating their very own powerful sound.
Beyond their endeavors in Slaughterror, the band members have notable roles in other projects within the metal music scene. Juuso Turkki, for instance, is a multi-talented musician who also plays in the dynamic outfit One Morning Left. Okko Solanterä is recognized for his contributions to Horizon Ignited, while Saku Moilanen is not only a guitarist for Slaughterror but also a mastermind of Red Moon Architect, as well as renowned studio producer within the metal music scene, shaping the sound of countless acts.
So stay tuned for the release of Endless Lust For Gore on February 23. The EP will be released digitally by Noble Demon; pre-save here.
Tracklisting:
“Incarnation”
“Victim”
“Endless Lust For Gore”
“I Am Death”
Finnish cello metal band, Apocalyptica, have shared a new video along with the following message:
"On this day 19 years ago we released our fifth studio album, Apocalyptica, which features the track, 'Deathzone' Enjoy this special version from our performance at St. John’s Church in Helsinki 2021."
Apocalyptica recently released a new single and music video for “What We’re Up Against” featuring Amaranthe singer Elize Ryd.
Apocalyptica have released the video below, along with the following message:
"Join the Apocalyptica Patreon family! Over the last couple of months, we had a lot of conversations about how to create a digital space for our community in which we are not limited by algorithms. We had brainstormings about how to get more interaction with you guys, talks about special merch items, ideas about how to publish unseen material… and finally found the platform for all of this: Patreon! Join us and be part of the next chapter in our band history."
On January 25, 2024, METAL ALLEGIANCE reassembled at the House Of Blues Anaheim for the band's 10th-anniversary celebration (which also coincided with the return of the winter NAMM show). The night was sponsored by Dean Guitars, ddrum and Heavys Headphones, with opening acts being DIETH, HELD HOSTAGE and QUOR.
Since METAL ALLEGIANCE's inception in 2014, the band is comprised of the core four members of: Mark Menghi on bass, Alex Skolnick (TESTAMENT) on guitar, David Ellefson (MEGADETH) on bass, and Mike Portnoy (DREAM THEATER) on drums.
In addition to Menghi, Portnoy, Skolnick and Ellefson, the show featured John Bush (ARMORED SAINT),Chuck Billy (TESTAMENT),Phil Demmel (MACHINE HEAD, VIO-LENCE),Troy Sanders (MASTODON),Brann Dailor (MASTODON),Andreas Kisser (SEPULTURA),Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth (OVERKILL),Gary Holt (EXODUS, SLAYER),Doc Coyle (BAD WOLVES, GOD FORBID),Hel Pyre (NERVOSA) and Chris Poland (ex-MEGADETH),among others, in addition to their usual unannounced surprise guests. Fan-filmed video of the concert can be seen below.
METAL ALLEGIANCE has issued two full-length albums so far, 2015's self-titled debut and 2018's "Volume II: Power Drunk Majesty", as well as an EP, 2016's "Fallen Heroes".
The last time METAL ALLEGIANCE played at the House of Blues Anaheim was in 2020, right before the world shut down; the show garnered rave reviews, such as North East Rock Review saying "I have attended a couple METAL ALLEGIANCE shows over the years and they seem to get better every year. When attending the NAMM show, this is one of the shows not to miss." Additionally, LA Metal Media added, "METAL ALLEGIANCE is an incredible coalition of the metal community's most incredible and notable musicians today; a coalition that pays tribute to some of the best metal music ever written. Be sure to check out this amazing assembly of metal greats if you can whenever they play live."
Metal Hammer raved about one of their past Anaheim shows, "Tonight the mayhem rises exponentially as a platoon of legends descends on the House Of Blues — tucked deep in the heart of downtown Disney — even the besieged bar staff pause to witness the carnage." while Cryptic Rock suggested, "Anyone who has the chance to see this should run, not walk, and join the ALLEGIANCE."
When METAL ALLEGIANCE's 10th-anniversary concert was announced last October, Menghi said in a statement: "I never in my life imagined a band like MA would exist, let alone write and record one record… here we are a few records, an EP and many shows/tours later celebrating our 10th year of existence. Pretty surreal. It's been a minute since the 'Core 4' have been in the same room. Excited to see my brothers, jam and laugh with them again. Only one place to kick off the festivities and that's our home away from home at the House of Blues in Anaheim Cal-i-forn-i-A."
Portnoy added: "METAL ALLEGIANCE's annual Anaheim shows are always one of the metal events of the year! This will be our return to Anaheim for the first time since our last show there weeks before the world shut down at the beginning of 2020, so I can't wait to get back and throw down with my metal brothers and sisters once again! \m/ "
Ellefson stated: "It's hard to believe it's been 10 years since we started METAL ALLEGIANCE out on the MOTÖRHEAD Motörboat cruise, but here we are, a couple of albums and a whole bunch of shows later, celebrating the strength and resilience of heavy metal together. Looking forward to the show as everything is back in the swing during NAMM 2024!"
Skolnick added: "When METAL ALLEGIANCE first came together in 2014, no one could have guessed that ten years later, we'd be planning this anniversary show. The world feels different now than it did then, but we're still here, music still unites and that is cause to celebrate. Among the many MA highlights over the past decade have been our shows in Anaheim, which always create a lot of great memories. This time will be no exception and no better way to mark our ten-year milestone. See you there!"
Blitz said: "Great to be part of this killer 10-year event with MA. The head-banging doesn't get any better than this!"
Commented Sanders: "I am thrilled to get the band back together for a 10th-anniversary METAL ALLEGIANCE throwdown! We look forward to another memorable show with all our friends!"
Added Holt: "So stoked to be able to return once again to METAL ALLEGIANCE for the 10-year anniversary of the world's foremost collection of metal maniacs, all sharing a stage together! It's been way too long, I am fired up for this! Bring it on!"
British guitar sensation, Sophie Lloyd, has released the new video below, featuring a performance of Rory Gallagher's "Bad Penny".
Says Sophie: "Probably one of my biggest inspirations when I started playing! Enjoy this shred of the greatest guitarist no one has ever heard of.... Rory Gallagher."
Sophie released her debut album, Imposter Syndrome, via her own Autumn Records back in November. The album is available as a digipack CD, Black Gatefold Vinyl and Limited Edition Gatefold Purple Splatter Vinyl. Orders can be placed here.
Tracklisting:
"Do Or Die" (feat. Nathan James)
"Pressure" (feat. Brandon Saller)
"Imposter Syndrome" (feat. Lzzy Hale)
"Let It Hurt" (feat. Chris Robertson)
"Runaway" (feat. Michael Starr)
"Fall Of Man" (feat. Matthew K. Heafy)
"Lost" (feat. Cole Rolland)
"Hanging On" (feat. Lauren Babic)
"Avalanche" (feat. Trevor McNevan)
"Won't You Come" (feat. Marisa Rodriguez)
"Judge And Jury" (feat. Tyler Connolly)
"Judge And Jury" video:
"Runaway" featuring Michael Starr of Steel Panther:
"Lost" featuring Cole Rolland:
"Hanging On" featuring Lauren Babic:
"Fall Of Man" featuring Matthew K. Heafy of Trivium:
Melodic hard rockers, Lionheart, have released the new single, "V Is For Victory", featured on their upcoming new album, The Grace Of A Dragonfly, out via Metalville on February 23. Pre-order the album here, and watch the new clip below:
As soon as the previous album, The Reality Of Miracles, hit the shelves in 2020, Lionheart knuckled down to record the next one, deciding early on that this time they would produce a concept album. The record centres around WW2, but the band very much wanted to make this an anti-war album, while at the same time remembering those who fought for our freedom.
The songs on The Grace Of A Dragonfly are sensational, with Lee Small’s emotional lyrics reflecting not only the pain and grief inflicted by war on ordinary, innocent people in every conflict zone, but also their strength, resilience, and determination. Supported by Lionheart’s superb songwriting, soaring backing vocals, beautiful twin-guitar harmonies, and atmospheric keyboards, Lionheart’s sheer power shines brightly from every one of the eleven songs, culminating in a heartfelt prayer for peace in the world.
Tracklist:
"Declaration"
"Flight 19"
"V Is For Victory"
"This Is A Woman's War"
"The Longest Night"
"The Eagle's Nest"
"Little Ships"
"Just A Man"
"UXB"
"The Grace Of A Dragonfly"
"Remembrance, Praying For World Peace"
"Flight 19" lyric video:
Lionheart lineup:
Lee Small (The Sweet, ex-Shy) - lead vocals
Dennis Stratton (ex-Iron Maiden) - lead guitar/backing vocals
Steve Mann (MSG, ex-Liar) - lead guitar/backing vocals
Rocky Newton (Grand Slam, ex-MSG) - bass guitar/backing vocals
Clive Edwards (ex-Pat Travers, Uli Jon Roth & Wild Horses) - drums, percussion
The new THUNDERMOTHER lineup has released its second single, "Speaking Of The Devil". Helmed again by Danish producer Søren Andersen (PRETTY MAIDS, D-A-D, Glenn Hughes, Mike Tramp),the track sees founding THUNDERMOTHER guitarist Filippa Nässil joined by singer Linnéa Vikström (THERION, AT THE MOVIES),bassist Majsan Lindberg and drummer Joan Massing (HONEY CREEK).
Nässil comments: "The new single is written by Linnéa and me, recorded live in Medley Studios with our longtime great producer Søren Andersen. It's a very badass song that we're all proud of. I can't wait to play this live on our upcoming tour '15 Years Of Rock' starting in Sweden now in February."
"Speaking Of The Devil" comes more than two months after the arrival of "I Left My License In The Future", which marked the first song released by the new THUNDERMOTHER lineup.
The new THUNDERMOTHER lineup made its live debut on April 20, 2023 by playing a "secret" show at Pub Anchor in Stockholm, Sweden. The latest THUNDERMOTHER incarnation played its first "official" concert on April 22, 2023 at Ski & Rock in Sälen, Sweden. They then kicked off a series of European shows as the support act for the SCORPIONS.
In February 2023, it was announced that singer Guernica Mancini, drummer Emlee Johansson and bassist Mona Lindgren were exiting THUNDERMOTHER and were forming a new band together. At the same time, Nässilrevealed that she would continue with a new THUNDERMOTHER lineup.
In an interview with Bloodstream TV, Filippa opened up about the latest THUNDERMOTHER lineup changes, saying: "Well, we were together seven years — and that is Guernica, the singer, and Emlee, the drummer. And it [was] amazing; we did so much together. But in the end, we couldn't communicate. 'Cause you travel and you live together all the time. Not even when you say 'hi' to each other. I cannot live a rock and roll lifestyle like this. So I tried to solve it for a long time — like, 'This doesn't work. We have to communicate and be respectful,' and whatever. And it didn't work out. One person didn't come to the meeting, so we had to move forward. Because this is a business as well, and a rock and roll band, and it's supposed to be fun and good and loving also, because we need to support each other. And when that's not the case… Well, I fired [Guernica] — that's the first time I'm saying that now, actually — because she didn't come to the meetings I set up to mediate. We need to talk and be able to work together. Because it's more and more business, and then you can't work and then you can't do your shows. Because it's e-mails and everything — it's a lot of stuff."
Nässil continued: "So friendship — okay, I can buy that; you don't have to be friends. But I think it's much better now anyway. And I'm very happy with… 'Cause I took the old singer… Not the old singer, but a singer that I really loved and admired for a long time called Linnéa Vikström. I actually asked her for the job in THUNDERMOTHER seven years ago, but she wasn't available. She had too much to do, 'cause she sang with THERION, a big metal band, around the world. And [she has] a lot of experience, but we're also good friends. So it's been hard for her to sort of take over something, but it's been fantastic. And everyone says it's really good."
In recent months, Mancini, who joined THUNDERMOTHER in 2017, gave several interviews in which she described her time with the group as "six tough years" and "a very bumpy ride". She also said that Filippa decided to fire her from the band without consulting the other members of THUNDERMOTHER, a move which they perceived as "very disrespectful towards them, being that they believed that we were a democracy and that we had a say in these things," according to Guernica.
In March 2023, Mancini, Johansson and Lindgren announced that their new band would be called THE GEMS. They have since signed a worldwide deal with Napalm Records and have issued their debut album, "Phoenix".
THE GEMS' live performances include material from THUNDERMOTHER's last two albums, 2020's "Heat Wave" and 2022's "Black And Gold", both of which featured songwriting contributions from Guernica and Emlee.
THUNDERMOTHER will kick off a Swedish tour in late February.
Ayreon mastermind Arjen Lucassen recently checked in with an update on his next musical venture:
"Hi all! This year I’ve been working on a new album… with old songs! I’ll explain. In the early '90s I formed a band with singer Robert Soeterboek called Plan Nine. But those were the days of grunge, so it wasn’t the right time for us. But now, 30 years later, we have re-written and re-recorded 13 songs with the help of lots of great musicians that you all know. And, if I say so myself, it turned out really cool! The album will be called The Long-Lost Songs and it will be released early next year by Mascot. Robert will play live with Plan Nine next year. More updates soon! (Oh… sorry for the cheesy photo… hey, that was more than 30 years ago!)"
Below is the official video for the first single, "Before The Morning Comes", taken from the Plan Nine album aptly named The Long-Lost Songs.
Lucassen: "As Robert and I sifted through our 30-year-old cassette tapes containing our demos, we stumbled upon a bluesy, unfinished piece featuring just my guitar and Robert's voice. I had completely forgotten about it, but felt it had the potential to be something special. I'm glad we pursued it, because it turned out to be one of the album's highlights!
Robert was actually quite ill when he recorded it, the raw pain in his voice is palpable, but that really works for this song. Given the positive reception from everyone we played the song for, we chose this track as the first single and the basis for our video clip.
The concept is straightforward: a sleazy, smoky bar with a band performing, surrounded by a crowd of utterly disinterested people, essentially ignoring the band. And what an exceptional band it is – I'm incredibly proud of these musicians! And yes, those are indeed Lynyrd Skynyrd and Jimi Hendrix posters on the wall – that's no coincidence!"
March 8, 2024 sees ALTERIUM, the new Italian power metal quintet led by Nicoletta Rosellini (ex. Kalidia, Walk in Darkness), release their much-awaited, first full-length studio album entitled "Of War And Flames" via AFM Records.
Following previously-released songs, "Siren's Call", "Drag Me To Hell", an epic cover version of Sabaton's "Bismarck" or just recently, their powerful title track "Of War And Flames", today, ALTERIUM are premiering a music video for their latest single "Crossroads Inn", a metal tribute inspired by the popular medieval tavern simulator video game!
In cooperation with video game creator Klabater, the following statement has been released:
"Welcome to Delcrys, adventurers!
The doors of the fantasy tavern are now open! To celebrate the arrival of the second chapter of the iconic video game ‘Crossroads Inn,’ Alterium wrote and recorded a track inspired by the lore of the game.
Crossroads Inn is a real-time management sim set in the immersive fantasy world of Delcrys. Players must build, manage, and expand their tavern, catering to the needs of adventurers from far and wide! The game is available on Steam, while “Crossroads Inn 2” has been announced and is currently in development - you can already add it to your wishlist!"
Singer and songwriter Nicoletta Rosellini comments: “I’m a huge fan of management video games, and I’ve spent hundreds of hours playing ‘Crossroads Inn,’ which also features great lore that inspired me to write lyrics for this track. I believe that power metal is the perfect genre to convey the funny atmosphere of a typical night at the tavern. We also recreated the whole scenery in our new music video!"
Born in late 2022, ALTERIUM consists of vocalist Nicoletta and former bandmates Paolo Campitelli (guitars) and Dario Gozzi (drums) from Kalidia, soon joined by Alessandro Mammola (guitars, also in Draconicon) and Luca Scalabrin (bass, also in Altair).
After Kalidia parted ways, Nicoletta decided to take a different approach and finally unleashes her whole potential as both a singer and a songwriter. Produced by Lars Rettkowitz (Freedom Call), and featuring 9 original classy power metal tracks including the cover of “Bismarck”, "Of War and Flames" turns out to be a triumph of catchy choruses, terrific vocal lines, powerful sounds, strong guitar riffs, explosive drums, majestic choirs and captivating grooves, all skillfully mastered by Achim Koehler.
"Of War And Flames" track listing:
01. Drag Me To Hell
02. Siren's Call
03. Of War And Flames
04. Firebringer
05. Crossroads Inn
06. Shadowsong
07. Crystalline
08. Heroine Of The Sea
09. Chasing the Sun
10. Bismarck
VANDENBERG has released the official music video for the song "Hit The Ground Running". The track is taken from the band's latest studio album, "Sin", which came out last August via Mascot Records/Mascot Label Group.
Every album paints a picture. Instead of utilizing a brush and canvas, VANDENBERG paints with towering vocals, earthquaking rhythms, and the iconic and instantly recognizable fretwork of guitarist and namesake Adrian Vandenberg. Joined by vocalist Mats Levén, drummer Koen Herfst and bassist Randy Van Der Elsen, the influential axe-slinger delivers a vibrant, visceral, and vital vision on the group's fifth full-length offering, "Sin", brought to life in broad strokes of anthemic hard rock and airtight metal and produced by Bob Marlette (OZZY OSBOURNE, ALICE COOPER, ROB ZOMBIE).
"For me, music is very much like a painting," affirms Adrian. "You have your ups, downs, lights, and shades. One song might make you want to jump on the table and party your brains out. Another song will inspire you to think. Either way, you're thrown into a landscape, which my favorite albums still do to me. You could be in your car or at home with your headphones plugged into a soundsystem, and you're in a different world."
Exploding out of The Netherlands and onto the global scene with 1982's self-titled "Vandenberg", the Dutch phenomenon notched an international hit in the form of "Burning Heart", paving the way for seminal releases such as "Heading For A Storm" (1983) and "Alibi" (1985). The band canvased the United States, Europe, and Japan alongside OZZY OSBOURNE, KISS, RUSH, SCORPIONS, MICHAEL SCHENKER, and many others. Sought out to join WHITESNAKE, Adrian famously ripped the legendary lead on the 1987 recording of the No. 1 smash "Here I Go Again", which adorned the eight-times-platinum "Whitesnake" and ended up touring the world's largest arenas for a year-and-a-half when the 1987 album went through the roof in terms of sales. He co-wrote the entirety of 1989's platinum "Slip Of The Tongue" and spent the ensuing tour sharing axe duties with none other than Steve Vai. In addition to playing guitar on and co-writing "Restless Heart" from DAVID COVERDALE & WHITESNAKE, he performed hundreds of shows as part of the band for some twelve years. Speaking to the breadth of his output, he notably penned and recorded "A Number One" as the theme for his hometown Dutch football team FC Twente. 2013 saw him launch the acclaimed VANDENBERG'S MOONKINGS, releasing "MoonKings" (2014),"MK II" (2017) and "Rugged And Unplugged" (2018).
VANDENBERG as a band roared back to life with the comeback LP "2020". Among many highlights, "Freight Train" gathered 1.6 million Spotify streams, while the record attracted praise. Sonic Perspectives enthused, "The end result sounds like the missing link between WHITESNAKE and RAINBOW, and updates the group's sound to the new generation of hard rock fans."
In its wake, VANDENBERG welcomed Mats (TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, CANDLEMASS) to the fold.
"He's an amazing singer," notes Adrian. "I'd heard him online, and we got in touch. It's funny because his mom brought the first two VANDENBERG records back to Scandinavia from England when he was in his early twenties — and he was a fan. He's a workaholic like me. We picked up after COVID and put the new album together. The spark is definitely there. On top of that, Koen and Randy lay down the most solid concrete, grooving foundation that I could ever wish for. I'd say it's one notch heavier than '2020'."
Recorded in Holland and Los Angeles with Marlette, "Sin" represents a natural evolution for VANDENBERG. Scorching pinch harmonics light up the first single "House On Fire" as the groove underlines a chantable chorus from Mats.
"In one way, it's a party song, because it keeps you tapping your foot," Adrian exclaims. "Mats added a different darker twist with his lyrics. It also envisions a person who's frustrated about the things other people have. This person can't control their anger and sets the place on fire."
Regina, Canada’s Kelevra has made a name for themselves in the national scene with their distinct and unique approach to metal, accompanied by a high-intensity live show. Recently they have taken time away from performing live to step back into the studio and create their third album, Oneiric, which will be released on March 8, 2024. The first single is the gripping “The Distance” - a story of hateful endings and love lost. The band comments:
“The bpm and varied technique required to pull this one off really demands the band be tight and ready, and it has become a standout track showcasing every band member firing on all cylinders. The nimble string gymnastics, push and pull feel in the rhythm section, and stops and starts on a dime really come together to show clever musicianship. The lyrics, vocals, and music interplay with an urgency that drives home the message of the track in a tight and cohesive unit.”
For Kelevra, the writing process is different from song to song, but usually begins with a single guitar riff. With the luxuries of technology and home recording studios, it is also common for songs to be formed in their entirety by one or two of the members and then presented to the band. Each member of the band has considerable experience in other bands as well, so talent and professionalism run deep in this group.
Oneiric artwork and tracklisting:
"Atoned"
"Cleanse With Fire"
"No Voice"
"The Distance"
"Self-Extinct"
"The Mad Wind"
"Despite What You Owe"
"Lifeblood"
British metalcore mob, Sworn Amongst, have released their latest single, "Tyrant". Find a video for the track below.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the song, the band stated: “'Tyrant' is offered not only as a tribute to the friends, acquaintances, and all peoples affected by this modern-day genocide, but also a profound statement of support and hope for the Ukrainian people. A recognition of their strength and unity as a nation, and the sacrifices made by all those - solider or civilian - who stand tall in the face of one man's violent oppression.”
Formed in 2004, Sworn Amongst quickly gained an impressive reputation for their in-your-face, aggressive, groove-laden compositions, and over the years have built an extensive history of international touring and festival appearances to support their numerous releases.
Over the years the band have been regular visitors to mainland Europe and have succeeded in turning heads for their sets at the world-renown Download and Bloodstock festivals. The band have also previously toured with numerous acts including playing main support to Canadian speed metal legends Annihilator as well as Gama Bomb, Our Hollow, Our Home, Lotus Eater, Bonded By Blood, Susperia, Breed 77, Man Must Die, Evile, and The Rotted.
They’ve also shared stages with the likes of Cannibal Corpse, Napalm Death, The Faceless, Anthrax, Sepultura, Chimaira, Skindred, Meshuggah, Bleed From Within, While She Sleeps, Dark Tranquillity, Asking Alexandria, and Sylosis. They have appeared at a variety of prestigious festivals including Download Festival, Bloodstock, Metal Heads Mission, Wurzburg Metal Fest, and Metal Invasion to name but a few.
After a brief hiatus starting in 2020, the band this year returned to form with its strongest lineup to date, releasing the much-anticipated new single, "Restitution". This release saw the return of founding members Jonny Harper and Liam Liddell, who alongside guitarist Ashley Currie and bassist Kieran Agnew have succeeded in returning the band to its rightful place as a force to be reckoned with; both in terms of the band's earth-shattering metalcore anthems, and their fiercely precise, electrifying live shows.
RIOT V, the band featuring members of legendary metal pioneers RIOT, will release a new studio album, "Mean Streets", on February 16, 2024 via Atomic Fire Records. The follow-up to 2018's "Armor Of Light" contains 12 tracks which were recorded by Bruno Ravel in New Jersey. Ravel also mixed the LP while Bart Gabriel took care of its mastering. Artwork was provided by Gyula Havancsák (ACCEPT, STRATOVARIUS, BRAINSTORM).
The official music video for the album's second single, "Feel The Fire", can be seen below. The clip was shot in New Jersey by director Tom Flynn (LAMB OF GOD, BUCKCHERRY) and additionally stars model Liv Walsh.
RIOT V bass player Donnie Van Stavern states: "When I wrote the music for 'Feel The Fire', I wanted to bring back the early RIOT rock days musically with a [LED] ZEPPELIN/[JUDAS] PRIEST kind of vibe. The lyrics I wrote about a passionate, aggressive, love, fire driven relationship within the souls of man and woman deeply obsessed with one another. The video kind of grabs the concept with fire, aggressive lights and, of course, a hot woman!"
RIOT is a band name that makes every metalhead's mind ring alert — in a positive way for sure. Many iconic musicians and bands listing them as an important influence, the New York City-born group has definitely paved the way for the hard 'n' heavy scene essentially. Their early musical steps — "Rock City" (1977),"Narita" (1979),"Fire Down Under" (1981) and "Restless Breed" (1982),to only name a few — made them grow fastly, following an artist development from hard rock to more metal sounds what resulted in their arguably most iconic record, "Thundersteel" (1988). The band's path was unfortunately also marked by many strokes of fate which led to significant lineup changes. Especially the death of founding member Mark Reale made a big impact on the group and eventually Reale's "Thundersteel" bandmate and songwriting partner Don Van Stavern decided to continue the legacy and came up with an idea out of respect to add "V" (Roman numeral five) for the fifth chapter of the group as well as the recorded singer. 2013 was the year that RIOT V was born! The outfit kept writing and releasing music honoring their legacy — more successfully than ever before. The musical foundation titled "Unleash The Fire" was followed by another furious album that even made RIOT V hit the official German album chart for the very first time in their prominent history ("Armor Of Light" reached position No. 27).
Van Stavern, who currently manages and handles affairs for the band, states: "We are extremely excited to release our 17th RIOT record 'Mean Streets' with the mighty Atomic Fire Records label! We went back to the roots a bit on this one with some hard rockers and of course power metal stylings. Our new pre-release lyric video 'High Noon' is a song I wrote with Mark Reale in mind. He loved the Old West and wrote songs about it as well ['Restless Breed', 'Gunfighter' etc.] and the music is a reminiscence on 'Thundersteel'/'Privilege Of Power'! Enjoy, metal warriors, more awesomeness is on the way!"
Vocalist Todd Michael Hall adds: "I am really excited for the people to hear 'Mean Streets'. We are evolving well with one foot rooted in the past and one foot pointing toward to future."
"Mean Streets" track listing:
01. Hail To The Warriors
02. Feel The Fire
03. Love Beyond The Grave
04. High Noon
05. Before This Time
06. Higher
07. Mean Streets
08. Open Road
09. Mortal Eyes
10. Lost Dreams
11. Lean Into It
12. No More
Hardly any other metal act has such a long and absorbing history behind it. Since the quintet formed in 1975, they have been hit by several severe strokes of fate during their long career. Three deceased members — Rhett Forester (R.I.P. 1994),Guy Speranza (R.I.P. 2003) and Mark Reale (R.I.P. 2012) — have left their mark on the four decades of RIOT's band history.
After the death of Mark Reale and the departure of Tony Moore, Todd Michael Hall (from Michigan),completed the lineup of RIOT, which changed its name to RIOT V and moved forward under the auspices of the two long-term members and main songwriters Donnie van Stavern (bass) and Mike Flyntz (guitar).
Many artists name-check RIOT as an important influence of their musical career and have paid tribute to the power metal godfathers on multiple occasions. The list is long and includes several well-known acts such as HAMMERFALL ("Flight Of The Warrior"),LUCA TURILLI'S RHAPSODY ("Thundersteel"),AXEL RUDI PELL ("Warrior") and newcomers such as NIGHT DEMON ("Road Racin'"),ALPHA TIGER ("Flight Of The Warrior"),SAVAGE MASTER ("Swords And Tequila") and STALLION ("Rock City").
RIOT V 2024 is:
Todd Michael Hall - vocals
Mike Flyntz - guitars
Nick Lee - guitars
Don Van Stavern - bass
Frank Gilchriest - drums
Former WHITE LION frontman Mike Tramp will release his second solo album sung entirely in Danish, "Mand Af En Tid", on March 15 via Target Records.
The official music video for the LP's new single, "Ham Vi Vil Være", can be seen below.
Tramp is probably the only person ever to sing about Jolly Cola, THE BEATLES, sauerkraut (a traditional German food) and karate on the same album. It happened on "For Første Gang", which was released in 2022 and was Mike Tramp's first-ever album in Danish.
With "Mand Af En Tid", he does it again. This time the songs are about everything from Andy Warhol's "Fifteen Minutes Of Fame" to Ingrid & Lillebror, Muhammad Ali, Ole Olsen and roast duck. Again, it all happens in Danish.
Thus, Mike shows that it was not for fun when, to the surprise of most, he released a record in his mother tongue after more than 45 years of singing in English. The Danish songs are a way of telling some of the stories and sharing the experiences that have been gathered together throughout his life.
Says Tramp: "Many of those I meet at my concerts have always followed me, and we have almost grown up together. I can feel that it means something very special to them that I suddenly sing in Danish. They can recognize themselves in the stories and songs because I sing about something that means something to me. I'm a grown man who's tried a little bit of everything, but I'm still here and don't need to chase the latest trend. I know who I am and stand by it. Therefore, the record could not be called anything other than 'Man Of A Time'."
Tramp's career is longer and more colorful than most. He has been the country's biggest teenage idol, made records in Germany and was an MTV star in the USA. With "Mand Af En Tid", he makes up for it, and as he states in one of the album's tracks: "I have chosen my path and the path gave me answers / I came as I was". Or as he describes himself in another song: "Stiff-necked, stubborn and retro, but really okay".
"In the past, I have always written songs that should suit a band," Mike explains. "Therefore, there have been many things that I just couldn't do because I had to live up to a certain image or a particular sound. With the Danish songs, I go where the songs demand it. If it's a big mess, well then it's with strings. If it's a song about the old nightclubs on Vesterbro, then of course it should also sound like that. I grew up with albums where songs could sound different. 'Mand Af En Tid' is such an album."
On "Mand Af En Tid", this means that there is room for the pure rock numbers such as the album's title song and "Storm Og Stille", the great break-up song "Indeni", the rock hymn "Altid Farvel" and not least the glimpses of memory in "Ham Vi Vil Være" and in "Nat På Libelle", which is a song about Tramp's late mother.
As with "For Første Gang", all the songs on "Mand Af En Tid" were written together with Lars Daneskov, and the record was produced by Tramp himself together with Søren Andersen. The record also features Søren Skov, Claus Langeskov, Kenni Andy, Emily Garriock Langeskov and Jørgen Thorup.
"Mand Af En Tid" will be released on LP (black vinyl, limited to 500 units),digipack CD and digital formats. All pre-orders made in Targetshop.dk are signed by Mike Tramp.
March 15 - Slagelse Musikhus, Badeanstalten, Slagelse
March 16 - Stars, Vordinborg
March 20 - Agger Darling, Vestervig
March 21 - Ferritslev Fritidshus, Ferritslev
March 22 - VINDANMARK, Aarhus
April 12 - BIO Huset, Galten
April 13 - Kulturcafé Ludvig, Sorø
April 19 - Ny Ridehus, Kulturcentret i Næstved, Næstved
April 20 - Gribskov Kultursal, Helsinge
May 10 - Bygningen, Køge
May 11 - Karosserifabrikken, Helsingør
Photo credit: Marcus Nand (courtesy of Target Records)
"The one you’ve been asking for…" begins drummer extraordinaire Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater, The Winery Dogs, Adrenaline Mob, Sons Of Apollo).
"Fun fact: You’re not gonna believe this, but this track was NOT on the list of discussed songs/content before I arrived at Drumeo to shoot. Brandon Toews asked me on the spot if I’d be willing to do it, and I said I was willing to give it a try but that I hadn’t played it in YEARS (since the Shattered Fortress tour in 2017). We decided to give it a whirl without me even listening to the track to review it… hit record and this is what came out! 'Like riding a bicycle! Well, more like a unicycle…'."
"The Dance Of Eternity" is arguably one of the most iconic (and difficult) progressive rock songs of all time. Watch below as the one and only Mike Portnoy breaks down how he plays this incredible song.
Initially released in 1999 on Dream Theater's fifth studio album, Metropolis Pt. 2: Scenes From A Memory, "The Dance Of Eternity" is a dazzling instrumental.
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Killswitch Engage
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