05.31.06 (RockAndMetal.com) Seattle's NEVERMORE have announced that guitarist Steve Smyth will be unable to perform with the band on their upcoming four European festival dates, Italy's Gods Of Metal, Germany's Rock Hard, Sweden Rock, and Ireland's Rock Fest Belfast. Recently diagnosed with end stage kidney failure, the result of a congenital birth defect, Smyth commented on the current state of his condition: "It is with deep regret that I will not be able to perform at the European festivals over the next week with Nevermore, as I am now in the hospital being treated with dialysis. The total kidney failure that I thought was a few months away has already happened. I am extremely disappointed with this situation, but there is nothing I can do. I wish the guys in Nevermore all the best and hope that as many of you fans as possible give them your support in Europe." Commenting yesterday from the Atlanta airport on their way to Italy, the band's vocalist Warrel Dane said: "We are saddened by Steve's escalating condition. He is an active part of this band and our thoughts stay with him. We will be performing as a four-piece for these shows, and will have Chris Broderick join us for the rest of our European schedule." Jag Panzer guitarist Chris Broderick performed with the band on their three-week American tour with In Flames and Evergrey. Broderick, who first performed with the band in 2003, said: "My heart goes out to Steve Smyth and I wish him all the best. It's a dreadful situation, but I'm glad I can help out at this time." Nevermore are also slated to back Disturbed on a month-long tour of Europe beginning in mid-September. Tour Dates: 09/14 Muenchen, Germany [Zenith] • 09/15 Fuerth, Germany [Stadthalle] • 09/16 Leipzig, Germany [Parkbuehne Open Air] • 09/17 Berlin, Germany [Huxleys] • 09/18 Copenhagen, Denmark [Amager Bio] • 09/19 Gothenburg, Sweden [Musikenshus] • 09/20 Hamburg, Germany [Grosse Freiheit] • 09/21 Bremen, Germany [Aladin] • 09/22 Vosselaar, Belgium [Biebob] • 09/23 Tilburg, NL [Club 013] • 09/24 Dortmund, Germany [Westfalenhalle 2] • 09/25 Frankfurt, Germany [Batschkapp] • 09/26 Amsterdam, NL [Paradiso] • 09/27 Koeln, Germany [Palladium] • 09/29 Newcastle, UK [Academy] • 09/30 Glasgow, UK [Barrowland] • 10/02 Manchester, UK [Academy] • 10/04 Nottingham, UK [Rock City] • 10/06 Birmingham, UK [Academy] • 10/07 Liverpool, UK [Academy] • 10/09 London, UK [Astoria] • 10/10 London, UK [Astoria] • 10/12 Buenos Aires, Argentina [Armando Diego Maradona Stadium] (Live 'N Louder Festival) • 10/14 Sao Paulo, Brazil [Anhembi] (Live 'N Louder Festival)
[WATCH]

05.30.06 (RockAndMetal.com) MNEMIC have recently employed the writing talents of guitarist/producer Roy Z. for one song that will surface on the band's upcoming album, due out in early 2007. The talented and heralded guitarist/songwriter for Tribe Of Gypsies, as well as producer of such recent Metal classics as Bruce Dickinson's "Chemical Wedding", Halford's "Resurrection" and Judas Priest's "Angel of Retribution," Roy Z. collaborated on guitar recently with Mnemic as the band prepare to start recording their untitled third album. The band commented: "The track has turned out really good. You can hear the heavy mixture of Roy's along with the Mnemic style. We've been a fan of Roy's work since first hearing his production on the Dickinson and Halford albums, and he always comes out when we are playing in L.A. and is a good friend of the band. We've actually never collaborated with other musicians before when it came to composing songs, so we thought we could combine some of his heavy groove with some of our polyrhythmics and make a song." Mnemic are also in the final stages of selecting a new vocalist once again. The band "pretty much decided who it's going to be, but we need to concentrate on getting the recording going for this next album before announcing anything," explains the band. "The song with Roy should be a great addition to the songs that we've had ready to go for a while now, we can't wait to get busy!" Genre-wise, Mnemic are hard to categorize, although their sound is definitely modern and heavy, with the quintet reaching from northern Europe and Denmark - having been in existence for about five years now. Listeners have described them as a mix of Hard Rock, Thrash Metal, Progressive Metal and Nu Metal, so Mnemic currently describe their sound as "Fusion Future Metal." The music is supported by keyboards, samples and guitar synths, to create a spacy atmosphere. For instance, their "Mechanical Spin Phenomena" release is described by the band as "a product of a thousand physical and psychological impressions gathered through the constant bombardement of everyday life in all its forms," with Mnemic having worked through ideas evolved from both images and atmospheres put together and then torn apart to create a vibe of energy and a level of intense creation not easily found elsewhere.
[WATCH]

05.26.06 (RockAndMetal.com) Nuclear Blast Records has announced the signing of NILE to a new recording deal. Mixing Egyptian elements with Technical Death Metal, thus creating a very unique style, the band rank among the elite of modern Metal bands - as masterpieces like "In Their Darkened Shrines" or last year's "Annihilation Of The Wicked" impressively show. NILE vocalist/guitarist Karl Sanders had this to say about the recording deal: "Nile is pleased to announce the recent signing of its new record deal with Nuclear Blast. We are excited about the possibilities and potential of this new partnership with the wonderful people at Nuclear Blast. We are most certainly eagerly looking forward to working on the next Nile album, and to fearlessly continue bringing Nile's unique brand of Ithyphallic Brutal Death Metal to our fans. We also would like to thank Matt and Gordon and the entire team at Relapse [Records] for many years of happiness working with them. We count them as our friends and comrades still, and wish them all the best." Through force of will and dedication to their craft, NILE is one of Death Metal's brightest hopes for the future. Formed in 1993 by Karl Sanders, Chief Spires (bass/vocals), and Pete Hammoura (drums), the band wasted little time combining their interest in Egyptian history, culture and lore with the ferocity of modern Death Metal. Using a symphonic approach to songwriting and arrangement, NILE unleashed an uncompromising early attack, with their unique lyrical approach inspired by Sanders' interpretation of ancient Egyptian inscriptions, temple carvings, papyri, hieroglyphics, and tomb paintings depicting ancient battles, rituals and religious ceremonies. Things really began to gel in 1996 when -- after recording and shopping three new songs -- they landed a deal with upstart label Visceral Productions and began recording their debut full-length album in addition to adding second guitarist Dallas Toler-Wade. However, the deal would not last as Visceral folded in late 1997. Relapse Records swiftly stepped into the picture after hearing the unreleased LP and witnessing the band's live show, as a deal was struck and the two prepared for the release of NILE's debut full-length, "Amongst The Catacombs Of Nephren-Ka." So driven by passion and hell-bent to deliver on Sanders' promise to "play every single note as if it were going to be our last [and] give every bit of strength we have within us every time we play," NILE have since converted scores of new fans to their distinctive sound. A new album from NILE is set to show up in 2007.
[WATCH]

05.25.06 (RockAndMetal.com) Looks like the coming holiday season is shaping up for BLIND GUARDIAN fans in the U.S. and Canada, as the band have just announced the preliminary routing for their upcoming North American tour throughout November and December in support of their upcoming new album, "A Twist In The Myth," which is slated for a Fall release via Nuclear Blast Records. Described by Billboard Magazine as "a larger-than-life sound which incorporates the harmonies and drama of Queen with an aggressive, modern sensibility," the BLIND GUARDIAN discography has sold over 120,000 copies in North America alone and their first-ever limited edition single debuted on the Singles Chart in 2002 by selling 5,200 copies. Lead vocalist Hansi Kursch checks in about the new album, the new songs, and the upcoming tour: "As you all most probably know, we have finished the album some days ago and started doing some first shows already. With this album, I think, we have widened the range of the BLIND GUARDIAN universe more than we have ever done before. In terms of quality, we had a very good feeling during the whole recording session. Some of the new songs will be presented on the road when we will start touring. Everything and everyone is in pretty good shape. All preparations for the fall tour are on schedule and the interest in tickets for the tour is really high. One more time, we would like to thank you for your patience and can't wait to hear and see your reaction to the new songs. As soon as there are some download samples, we will let you know. Your endurance will be rewarded." Between now and the launch of the U.S./Canadian tour, BLIND GUARDIAN will stay busy by hosting listening parties in Europe for their new album, shooting a video for 'Another Stranger Me' (featuring new drummer Frederik Ehmke), and touring throughout Europe and Scandinavia in September and October. "A Twist In The Myth" Track Listing: 01. This Will Never End (5:07) • 02. Otherland (5:14) • 03. Turn The Page (4:16) • 04. Fly (5:43) • 05. Carry The Blessed Home (4:03) • 06. Another Stranger Me (4:36) • 07. Straight Through The Mirror (5:48) • 08. Lionheart (4:15) • 09. Skalds And Shadows (3:13) • 10. The Edge (4:27) • 11. The New Order (4:49)
[FREE MP3]

05.24.06 (RockAndMetal.com) A DualDisc format (CD and DVD) reissue of MORBID ANGEL's classic Death Metal masterpiece, "Altars Of Madness," is now available from the Earache U.S. web store. Few albums struck a chord within the ears and minds of the late '80s underground Metal scene like MORBID ANGEL's "Altars Of Madness" did at the end of the decade. The album simply set a new precedent for Metal bands to reach and -- along with fellow Floridians DEATH -- pretty much laid down the blueprint for what exactly "Death Metal" is, thus setting the standard by which virtually all Extreme Metal over the course of the next decade would be judged. Fusing the primal fury of Extreme Thrash legends such as SLAYER and POSSESSED with the extremity of the burgeoning UK Grindcore scene, principal songwriter and lead guitarist Trey Azagthoth orchestrated music that was almost absurdly frantic and technically convoluted, yet extremely memorable and somehow hugely melodic. Lyrically, no other artist up to that point had aligned themselves so closely with Satanism or spat that sort of blasphemy with as much conviction as MORBID ANGEL's frontman David Vincent. This, coupled with the impossible speed of powerhouse drummer Pete Sandoval, not only made a great impression on the minds of not only hundreds of Thrash Metal bands, who instantly switched direction to embrace this new form of barbarity, but also those Northern Europeans who were destined to become pillars of the infamous Black Metal scene of the early 90's. Showcasing outstanding musicianship and a frightening sincerity in the message it conveys, it's easy to see why "Altars Of Madness" is still considered by many to be a defining moment in the Death Metal and is still held in reverence by the majority of that genre's devotees. The DualDisc reissue boasts MORBID ANGEL's premier DVD release, and includes bonus DVD materials featuring of the band's landmark Nottingham Rock City show in November of 1989. Providing a stark glimpse into that pioneering time, the performance was part of the "Grindcrusher" tour, which featured three other former Earache Death Metal gurus in NAPALM DEATH, BOLT THROWER and CARCASS. The Nottingham Rock City show, once only available on questionable underground formats, is stunningly filmed in all its glory and contains cutting, live renditions of grinding classics such as 'Maze Of Torment,' 'Damnation' and 'Blasphemy.' The reissue CD also includes remixes of 'Maze Of Torment,' 'Chapel Of Ghosts' and 'Blasphemy,' as well as the full original track listing.
[WATCH]

05.24.06 (RockAndMetal.com) ROB ZOMBIE infiltrated New York City with a morning visit to the Howard Stern Show and a live performance by Zombie and his band performing their new Billboard Top 20 hit 'American Witch' off the new "Educated Horses" CD live on the Late Show With David Letterman last night. "Educated Horses" (Geffen Records) was produced by Zombie and long-time producer Scott Humphrey (Metallica, Motley Crue), who together also produced the platinum albums "Hellbilly Deluxe" and "The Sinister Urge." Continuing Rob Zombie's tradition as a pioneer of new horror media and music, he was also live in the FUSE studios Tuesday night to introduce the video for 'American Witch,' which first hit the airwaves April 24th and is currently on Billboards Top 20 Mainstream chart after only five weeks out. "Educated Horses" also entered the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart at #5. This week's video premiere also sets the tone for Rob Zombie's upcoming "American Witch Tour," slated to start June 30th in El Paso, Texas at the County Coliseum. Joining Zombie will be Thrash icons ANTHRAX. Tour Dates: 06/30 El Paso, TX [County Coliseum] • 07/01 Lubbock, TX [Lone Star Amphitheater] • 07/02 Wichita Falls, TX [Kay Yeager Coliseum] • 07/05 McAllen, TX [La Villa Real Special Events Center] • 07/07 North Little Rock, AR [North Shore Riverwalk] • 07/08 Springfield, MO [Jordan Valley Festival Grounds] • 07/09 Wichita, KS [Kansas Coliseum] • 07/11 Council Bluffs, IA [Mid-America Center] • 07/12 Oklahoma City, OK [Fairgrounds Arena] • 07/14 Grand Rapids, MI [DeltaPlex] • 07/15 Cleveland, OH [Tower City Amphitheater] • 07/16 Fort Wayne, IN [Allen County War Memorial Coliseum] • 07/18 Evansville, IN [Roberts Stadium] • 07/19 Moline, IL [The Mark Of The Quad Cities] • 07/20 Green Bay, WI [Resch Center] • 07/22 Mankato, MN [Midwest Wireless Civic Center] • 07/23 Fargo, ND [Fargo Civic Memorial] • 07/24 Sioux Falls, SD [Ramkota Exhibit Hall] • 07/26 Rapid City, SD [Rushmore Hall] • 07/27 Casper, WY [Casper Events Center] • 07/28 Billings, MT [Shrine Auditorium] • 07/30 Saskatoon, SK [Prairieland Park] • 07/31 Edmonton, AB [Shaw Conference Center] • 08/01 Calgary, AB [Stampede Corral] • 08/03 Vancover, BC [Pacific Coliseum] • 08/04 Salem, OR [Salem Armory Auditorium]

05.23.06 (RockAndMetal.com) Two DIO albums are being re-released in Steamhammer/SPV Records' "Super Value" lineup next week throughout Europe in "Angry Machines" and "Dio's Inferno - The Last In Live." "In 1996 we released 'Angry Machines,' an album that would follow 'Strange Highways,' and a project that would bring a new guitarist, bassist, and keyboard player to the Dio band. It proved to be a much more transitional than any thing we had done before. It was more rhythmically slanted and more lyrically and musically "angry" then any Dio album that preceded it. Listen to it with an attitude. That's the way we made it," said vocalist Ronnie James Dio. Regarding "Dio's Inferno - The Last In Live, " the singer said: "'Dio's Inferno - The Last In Live' was a combination of shows recorded in Japan, Germany, and the U.S. Touring with Motorhead and My Dying Bride, we took the time to preserve a great set of songs that have stood the test of time and still burn with the fire they were created with." From the beginning, Ronnie James Dio has always pursued a brand of music that proudly existed outside of any prevailing trends, along the way selling millions of albums all over the world and building one of the most devoted concert followings of any Hard Rock or Heavy Metal artist. A native of a small town near Syracuse, New York, Dio -- whose real name is Ronald James Padavona -- grew up in a tightly-knit community of family and friends. His twin interests were music and romantic fantasy literature such as the works of Sir Walter Scott and the Arthurian legend. These would play an important role later on in the development of his musical persona. Studying trumpet as a teen, then switching to bass when he discovered Rock 'N' Roll, Dio formed the band ELF in the early 70's, and recorded several LP's with them. As DEEP PURPLE's opening act, Dio came to know that band's guitarist, Ritchie Blackmore, with whom he would later form RITCHIE BLACKMORE'S RAINBOW. After three years and five albums, Dio left RAINBOW to become lead singer for BLACK SABBATH. He recorded two studio albums with them, "Heaven And Hell" and "Mob Rules," in addition to a live album, "Live Evil." Soon realizing there was more personal vision to follow, Dio parted company with co-writer Tony Iommi and Sabbath - stripping down to his soul as he began to structure an internationally popular band built around his name. Garnering a reputation as "the voice" early on in his career, both sides of the Atlantic would blister with the unrelenting impact of DIO's full-throttle writing and sound in classic albums such as "Holy Diver," "The Last In Line," "Sacred Heart" and more.
[WATCH]

05.23.06 (RockAndMetal.com) "The Volume Of Self," TWIN METHOD's debut for Crash Music, Inc., is set to be released on June 13th, which will be followed by a U.S. tour. With a unique look and sound and a high-energy live show that is visually over-the-top, they also intend to put an end to the stigma that Liverpool, England is just another "one-band-wonder." Hailing from that city, there's no question that TWIN METHOD will invariably be foreshadowed by the imperial sovereignty of THE BEATLES. In fact, there has yet to be a band like themselves to commercially break out of the musical barriers of that illustrious town since the Fab Four. Recorded at Audio Lab Studios in Los Angeles with producer/engineer Logan Mader (Machine Head), "The Volume Of Self," featuring such standout tracks as 'Flawless' and 'Defeated,' and takes a lyrical stance -- or better said -- a lyrical attack on people. According to lyricist/vocalist Jason: "I generally write about certain people who do things without thinking and cause problems for others...people who are basically idiots." TWIN METHOD encompass a wide variety of musical influences, as guitarist Dean grew up on L.A. Glam with bands like Motley Crue, vocalist Jason grew up with harder-edged bands like Megadeth and Metallica, bassist Matt always liked UK Drum & Bass, while drummer Adam was more intrigued by the emerging Punk bands of the '90s like NOFX and Green Day, with Yan's influences ranging from Massive Attack to Soundgarden to Nine Inch Nails. Growing up in Liverpool hasn't always been a stroll down Penny Lane either, as the environment of that city is not so forgiving. According to Jason: "It's difficult looking the way we do without getting hassled. Trying to be different in Liverpool is slightly harder than most other places since there's such a clique of people that attack you for being what they consider odd." Needless to say, Liverpool is much more conservative than big cities such as London, although Jason admits, "There is a good metal scene currently in Liverpool, an abundance of local bands, and there are always gigs to play." Adam, Matt and Jason (all three are brothers) and childhood friend Yan met Dean at a Liverpool nightclub a few years back. Robin Carter Potticary joined the band in early 2005, completing the line-up. As it turns out, Dean had met with Hollowpoint Management president Shawn Barusch when he was in a previous band. According to Dean: "I kept in touch with Shawn, and soon after we formed Twin Method, I gave him a demo recording and he loved it."
[WATCH]

05.22.06 (AP) Finns poured into the streets Sunday to fete their monster victory in the Eurovision Song Contest and their President even congratulated latex-masked Metallers LORDI for breaking that country's losing streak. After 40 years of trying and eight last-place finishes, Finland finally won the melody contest late Saturday in Athens with the band's unconventional piece, 'Hard Rock Hallelujah.' Fears that LORDI would give Finland a bad name gave way to celebration as hundreds of people cheered in the streets of Helsinki, waving Finnish flags and singing the LORDI song. Cars honked their horns and sped through the wet city streets. "I don't claim to be a rock fan, and it's not my favorite music, but I admire these guys," said Nina Laisi. Erkki Turunen, holding a beer glass in one hand, shouted that Finland won "because it put on a genuine show." "This wasn't some sort of rubbish. This was really cool," Turunen said. President Tarja Halonen congratulated the band with a telegram, and Culture Minister Tanja Karpela said LORDI's victory showed that Finnish music could be successful abroad. Since March, when LORDI won the competition for the Finnish entry, many in this highly self-conscious nation feared the Hard Rock/Metal band would damage the country's reputation. LORDI's apocalyptic piece was heatedly debated on radio and TV shows, and the exploits of the band, which performs in costume and does not reveal its members' names, regularly hit tabloid headlines. The leader of Greece's powerful Orthodox Church deplored the mock-Satanist band's victory, saying the contest result "shows that people are seeking something to prop themselves on and fill their empty souls." In his Sunday sermon, Archbishop Christodoulos asked, "Who would have expected that the first prize could have gone to those who showed up (looking) like monsters, like Satans? Is this art?" Band leader Mr. Lordi said its performances are entertainment, and LORDI may have changed the face of Eurovision -- known for its bland Dance music and bubble-gum Pop -- for good. "This is proof that there were rock fans watching Eurovision," Mr. Lordi said in Athens. "Our victory was also a victory for open-mindedness. Eurovision fans are now accepting other kinds of music in addition to pop and ballads." Finnish officials vouched that the Nordic country will stage one of the best Eurovision competitions when it hosts the show next year. "This is a jackpot for Finland," said Mikael Jungner, managing director of national broadcaster YLE which will stage the contest. "Other small countries have managed to stage the show. Somehow, we'll find the money."
[FREE MP3]

05.22.06 (RockAndMetal.com) As they gear up to headline the Family Values Tour this Summer, KORN will release a new DVD entitled "Live On The Other Side" on June 20th. The DVD features a special in-flight performance where 50 contest winners from Europe joined the band on a private 757 jet as they made their way to deliver a sold-out performance at New York City's Hammerstein Ballroom. "Live On The Other Side" will also include bonus extras such as rare behind-the-scenes footage, never before seen interviews with the band members, music videos and more. On June 19th, the eve of the DVD's release, KORN fans can catch an exclusive world premiere of the program in over 100 movie theatres in approximately 70 markets nationwide. For theatre listings stay tuned to www.korn.com. In other Family Values Tour news, tickets went on sale for the first ten shows this past weekend, for which confirmed dates and venues are listed below. To preview what's to come this Summer on the Family Values Tour, KORN also made a special free appearance in Chicago this past Thursday, May 18th, as did Family Values tourmates Deftones in their hometown of Sacramento, Stone Sour in Kansas City, and Flyleaf in Spokane, Washington. Tour Dates: 07/27 Virginia Beach, VA [Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre] • 07/29 Nashville, TN [Starwood Amphitheater] • 07/30 Atlanta, GA [Hi-Fi Buys] • 08/04 San Antonio, TX [Verizon Wireless] • 08/15 Denver, CO [Coors Amphitheatre] • 08/18 Phoenix, AZ [Cricket Pavilion] • 08/20 Sacramento, CA [Sleep Train] • 08/24 Kansas City, MO [Verizon Wireless Amphitheater] • 08/26 East Troy, WI [Alpine Valley] • 09/15 Camden, NJ [Tweeter Waterfront] "Live On The Other Side" DVD Track Listing: 1. Here To Stay • 2. Twist • 3. Got The Life • 4. Liar • 5. A.D.I.D.A.S. • 6. Coming Undone • 7. Dirty • 8. Falling Away From Me • 9. Twisted Transistor • 10. Did My Time • 11. Shoots And Ladders • 12. One • 13. Freak On A Leash • 14. Another Brick In The Wall/Goodbye Cruel World • 15. Blind • 16. Somebody Someone • 17. Hypocrites • 18. Y'all Want A Single
[WATCH]

05.19.06 (RockAndMetal.com) EYES OF FIRE are currently annihilating crowds on the "One Nation Undivided" tour with Ill Nino, God Forbid, Silent Civilian and Bleed The Sky. The Jagermeister-sponsored, 28-city major market assault, which kicked off on May 10th and runs through early June, is the group's first major national run in support of their new album, "Prisons," which was recorded at Grandmaster Recorders (Tool, Nine Inch Nails) with renowned producer Matt Bayles (Mastodon, Isis). Dan Kaufman (guitars, vocals) checks in with the following report: "Hey everyone we're currently sitting backstage in Houston getting ready to fucking destroy the stage once again on the 'One Nation Undivided' tour. The shows so far have kicked some major fucking ass and to make things that much better our video for 'It All Dies Today' will make its Headbangers Ball debut this Saturday night. This is something that we are all extremely excited about. Be sure to check it out and tell all your friends about it. Also, everyone better get out to these shows early. The shows have early door times and we are switching off set times with our brothers Bleed The Sky, so get there early and support some great metal. This tour has been fun so far and we're just getting started. We're one giant family out there and all the bands are having a blast with each other. Until next time keep on listening and we hope to see you all soon." Collectively, EYES OF FIRE have grown greatly as musicians and songwriters over the past year after adding new members Bobby Thomas (guitars), Nicky Bernardi (drums) and Pete Traux (keyboards) to the fold. The group toured relentlessly on major packages with the likes of Apocalyptica, Danzig, Trivium and Kataklysm, as well as high-profile shows with Lacuna Coil, Opeth, Strapping Young Lad and Moonspell, further helping them garner a loyal, rabid underground following. "Prisons" further develops the sound introduced on EYES OF FIRE's debut offering, "Ashes To Embers," which lashed out with a barrage of intensity and sonic pummeling, while still walking a fine line between melody and brutality. The group succeeds in areas where most heavy bands today don't even bother venturing: songwriting, hooks and emotion - drawing similarities to such cult icons as Anathema, Katatonia and Neurosis.
[WATCH]

05.19.06 (RockAndMetal.com) A new EP from ESCAPE THE FATE is due to drop next week on Tuesday May 23rd via Epitaph Records. Entitled "There's No Sympathy For The Dead," the release is a symphony of many things. Combustible-constructive discord. A frustrated type-A, caffeine-addicted firecracker of a singer who longs for fame like an orphan wishes his parents were still alive. Add an equally hungry guitarist with a measured intensity and gracious sensibility and three more guys just as starved. In the first 22 seconds of the first song, 'Dragging Dead Bodies In Blue Bags Up Really Long Hills,' you hear the history of ESCAPE THE FATE. A taut snare roll (the sound of something about to burst) underscores tense, cutting octave chords (clarion concerns clamoring for attention). This unravels into tom-tom drubbing not unlike a 10-move Mortal Kombat kombo that gives way to a brief double-kick-drum blast and a final, ominously ringing chord. Truly, there is no clear narrative -- this song and the others could be about many things. There is only the implicit confidence of a young band in a full-tilt sprint away from failure and irrelevance. Aside from some basic agreements that contemporary Rock 'N' Roll is bad, that's one of the few times singer Ronnie and guitarist Omar will agree. What they also agree on is that mainstream Rock music has become irrelevant, and such insignificance is inversely proportionate to success. Whore yourself out and you hit the jackpot. Stick to your guns and earn the empty wage of creative integrity. Theirs is a combustible, but constructive, discord that propels them away from an end that nips at every band's heels. "I don't wanna come off like an asshole," says outspoken Ronnie, "but we're gonna make a change in music. I have a vision. I want people to have fun, put their fists in the air." Simultaneously, this impetuous melange of Hard Rock and Metal shows ESCAPE THE FATE running straight for Rock stardom, making Rock what it used to be. "It used to be fun," Ronnie says. "Girls used to come to shows and show their titties. They had big hair, and there was stadium reverb on the drums. If that doesn't come back, I don't know what I'm gonna do. It's gonna happen," he concedes. "Watch. I'm not jokin'. We're gonna be the biggest thing. So huge - I know it."
[FREE MP3]

05.18.06 (RockAndMetal.com) Having recently been confirmed for the Lorca Rock festival on June 17th in Murcia, Spain, EXODUS are currently on tour through North America in support of their late 2005 release, "Shovel Headed Kill Machine," with FULL BLOWN CHAOS and SUBZERO. If you're looking for a night of pummeling pit action, then bite the bullet and get yourself out to a show!! If you get hurt in the pit, word from the road is that riff machine Gary Holt also specializes in medical evaluations... When FULL BLOWN CHAOS vocalist Ray Mazzola woke up with a knee the size of the cantaloupe in Florida, he asked road veteran Gary Holt to take a look at it. Gary instantly told him he was bit by a black widow. At the hospital, they verified that he had indeed been bitten by a Southern Black Widow. How that for having a trade to fall back on? Besides using his time on the tour bus to work on riffs for the next album, Holt recently spoke to Nashua Telegraph correspondent Shawn Macomber about the current state of the Thrash Metal genre: "If I was doing this for some quick buck -- and let's be clear, there aren't a whole lot of 'em involved in this, I make a living at it but I'm certainly not rich -- it would show. People would see right through it. They would listen to our records and hear the sound of someone past their prime doing it just to make a dollar. You have to love it for it to be honest. I still do. It seems like timing [for a comeback] is good right now, but, you know, I never really concerned myself with what everyone else was doing. Of course, that doesn't mean I don't think it's great that after the death of this whole nu-metal atrocity young bands are embracing the kind of music we pioneered and actually doing their own version of it. I couldn't be happier, and some of these great new bands - Shadows Fall, Lamb Of God, Hypocrisy, The Haunted have become very good friends of mine. But I'd be doing my thing either way. I'm not surprised [to see the resurgence in thrash metal] because I always saw nu-metal as a really, really bad trend that would have no staying power whatsoever," Holt continued. "The most popular bands from that era are long dead and forgotten. Fred Durst's 15 minutes of fame are way up. I bet Paris Hilton won't even return his calls anymore."
[WATCH]

05.17.06 (RockAndMetal.com) HAMMERFALL guitarist Oscar Dronjak has posted the following studio update on the bands official website: "Woke up hearing the voices of the others in the kitchen and decided it was time to get up as well. The day started out with some computer work, so Anders [Johansson, drums] and I decided to invent a couple of new table tennis-based sports using, among other things, pool cues and balls as well as our own hands instead of rackets. The proposed single is called 'Natural High' (for the time being, at least) was next. It's a moderately fast song (like 'Renegade,' for example), with a very melodic chorus. What we do over these first five or so days is that we lay the foundation for the whole production, the ground work on top of which everything else is supposed to fit. So it's very important that the drum patterns follow the guitars - something I already have done on the demos. But what we also do here is try to come up with more interesting patterns in places where that is needed, or ones that makes sense when mine doesn't. It is a process that requires Anders to play through the songs quite a few times before we all have agreed on what to do. Granted, the changes are usually minor, but in my experience it is the attention to details that separates a good recording from a great one. Plus, I don't want to be stuck changing the guitars later on just because we were sloppy when laying down the drums. And if there's one thing that [producer] Charlie [Bauerfeind] is not, it's sloppy. He's got that sort of obsessive-compulsive behavior of dissecting every little segment almost to the point of (German?) madness. I'm exaggerating, of course, but this one of the things Charlie does best. Plus, he's got amazingly good ears - nothing escapes them. After finishing the track, Anders and I went to McDonalds for a late lunch. Not my first choice today but it served its purpose. Went to a new supermarket called Loevebjerg to get more food and whine on the way back. Snuck in a quick nap and then took a bite out of 'The Fire Burns Forever', another moderately fast song but with a lot of backing vocals and Joacim [Cans] singing as high as he (probably) can. Should be interesting. The drum patterns I had laid out didnt make it through the Charlie filter, so they set about rearranging almost every part in this song. Finally, everyone was happy and the track turned out really cool. We watched some more ice-hockey and then I helped Anders change heads on the drums, and that was it for today. Being a good soldier, Anders went to bed to feel rested tomorrow, while Charlie fiddled around with something and I wrote this." HAMMERFALL's new album is tentatively scheduled for an October 2006 release.
[WATCH]

05.16.06 (RockAndMetal.com) DIECAST have set "Internal Revolution" as the title of their upcoming new album, which is currently set for a September 19th release via Century Media. The group will hit the studio with acclaimed producer Zeuss (Hatebreed, Shadows Fall) next week, which will also be their first recording effort with an entirely new rhythm section composed of Dennis Pavia (drums) and Brad Horion (bass). DIECAST are now more focused, and can't wait to show the world what they are capable of creating. Vocalist Paul Stoddard checks in with the following report: "What's up bitches? Sorry I haven't done this in awhile, but, as I'm sure you've already heard, a lot of shit has gone down. Long-time drummer Jason Costa is no longer with us, and we wish him best of luck in life. The losses don't end there. After a lengthy time of self-reflection, Jeremy Wooden has decided to hang up his bass. He was the father of Diecast and is still considered a brother to all. We wish Jeremy and his lovely girlfriend Adriana nothing but the best for there future, and he will be terribly missed. As they say, with loss comes gain. It's with great pleasure that I get to announce two new members to the Diecast family. Please welcome Dennis Pavia (drums) and Brad Horion (bass). Dennis came to us before we even started officially looking for a replacement. We were so taken by his skill and ability to learn the material so quickly that we knew he would be the perfect fit. Brad (former bass player for Breadinground) has been our tour manager for quite some time now, and even filled in for Jeremy on our European tour with Napalm Death. We are extremely proud to have both of these bitches now along for the ride, and expect everyone to welcome them in with proper hazing and abuse. To our fans and friends, let there be no worries at all. Diecast are now stronger than ever. We just finished writing our new record, 'Internal Revolution,' and I think it's going to be one of the most diverse records to hit our scene to date. Guaranteed to be something for everyone. We start recording the new record next week in Hadly, Massachusetts with the well-known producer Zeuss, the god of recording heavy bands. We'll continue to check in throughout the recording process. Thanks to all of our fans and friends who have been supporting us through all the shit we've been going through. We can't wait to party with every one of you. See you all soon."
[FREE MP3]

05.16.06 (RockAndMetal.com) Long Island's THIS IS HELL's full-length debut album, "Sundowning," has just been released via Trustkill Records. The Hardcore quintet have been killing it as of late on tours alongside the likes of MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD, COMEBACK KID, IGNITE and FIRST BLOOD. this past month, and have been hard at work touring incessantly in the U.S. and Europe as well. THIS IS HELL recorded "Sundowning" at Atomic Studios with producer Dean Baltulonis (Most Precious Blood, Sick Of It All) in February and March. At the beginning of the year, Alternative Press tapped the band as one of the "Top 100 Bands To Watch" for 2006. In June of 2004, former SCRAPS AND HEART ATTACKS vocalist Travis Reilly joined forces with Jeff Tiu, Joe Osolin and Dan Bourke from THE BACKUP PLAN to form a new project. After adding Long Island Hardcore stalwart Rick Jimenez on guitar, the finished lineup for THIS IS HELL was in place. Collectively, they come with lots of experience, with the individual band members having previously shared the stage with THE MOVIELIFE, EVERY TIME I DIE, and Hardcore legends BANE, amongst others. "Scraps And Heart Attacks and Backup Plan used to play together a lot, we always talked about starting a side project but it turned into a full time band," says THIS IS HELL's Reilly. Two full, self-booked, U.S. tours have also seen this motivated crew trek across the country impressing audiences alongside the likes of KILL YOUR IDOLS, BARS, and WITH HONOR. "Being in Scraps And Heart Attacks, I pretty much realized that if you want your band to make any progress you need to get motivated and be willing to do it by yourself. So, we did that. I booked our first tour, 2 months all over the U.S.," says Reilly. After almost selling out of their 1,000 self-released, four song demos, Run For Cover Records caught wind of THIS IS HELL and their re-released demo, which was now out on vinyl. While out on their first cross-country tour, 500 seven-inch vinyl copies were pressed and all were purchased by fans in under a month. "The 7-inches went up for pre-order, and before we knew it 200 of them were gone like that. We took 150 on our first tour and they were gone within two weeks. And before we knew it, the release was completely sold out," describes Reilly. With a growing buzz across the globe, THIS IS HELL have also earned strong support from Australian Alternative radio. "It's the most refreshing, catchy hardcore I've listened to all year, I can't help but sing along every time I hear them on the radio," exclaims Sarah De Borre, music director for PBS FM in Australia.
[LISTEN]

05.15.06 (RockAndMetal.com) Today DEICIDE are set to infiltrate the mainstream by striking Americans in their own homes, as they will be featured on one of television's longest running, top-rated syndicated news magazine shows, "Inside Edition." The show will be running a feature about the notorious 666 and a variety of opinions and predictions on the marriage of the unholy number and its' day of reckoning. They will be highlighting many of the releases slated for 06/06/06 and will feature DEICIDE's upcoming "The Stench Of Redemption" on Earache Records as one of those releases. The feature will also include pieces that unfold and uncover the mysteries of the number, unearthing the superstitions of 666, and of course, the one and only DEICIDE. Noted as "Satan's favorite band" by Maxine Shen of the New York Post, the band are an obvious addition to any story highlighting June 6th, 2006. "The Stench Of Redemption" has been completed at Morrissound Studios in Florida, and is the successor to DECIDE's last Earache release, "Scars Of The Crucifix." With the new offering promises to be one their most brutal albums to date, DEICIDE are also set to headline a massive Metal festival on 06/06/06 at the Iliff Park Saloon in Aurora, Colorado, coinciding with the launch of "The Stench Of Redemption." The festival will feature a multitude of local Metal mavens, with DEICIDE headlining the madness on that once-in-a-century day. The band are also confirmed for the 20th edition of the Nummirock Festival, set to take place June 23rd and 24th in Nummijarvi, Finland, where they will join MARDUK, HYPOCRISY, AMORPHIS, EDGUY, KREATOR, SAMAEL, THE DUSKFALL and more at that event. Lastly, DEICIDE have also secured an upcoming U.S. headlining tour for September and October in support of "The Stench of Redemption," for which JUNGLE ROT (Crash Music), HURTLOCKER (Napalm Records) and DESOLATION (Shadowflame) all have been named as opening acts. Tour dates for that run are slated for September 20th - October 31st. Check out www.earache.com for the latest DEICIDE tour info and breaking news.
[WATCH]

05.15.06 (RockAndMetal.com) SPITFIRE are currently wrapping up a trek in the U.S. with UNDEROATH, POISON THE WELL and AS CITIES BURN, with the sold-out tour coming to an end on Wednesday in Fayetteville, Arkansas. After that, the band are confirmed to play the Ichthus and Cornerstone Music Festivals in June and July, and will be announcing more tour dates in support of their "Self-Help" release shortly. After a near four-year hiatus, Virginia's SPITFIRE have made a returned to introduce a new audience to their aural insanity. One of the biggest disappointments of 2001 was when the band decided to prematurely call it a day after the release of their CD EP with new label Goodfellow Records, with whom they are back and who released "Self-Help" on February 28th - a slab of music destined to become one of the heavy music comebacks of 2006. SPITFIRE issued several releases themselves and contributed to a number of compilations before first signing to Solid State Records (Underoath, Zao, Norma Jean), the aggressive music imprint label of Tooth And Nail Records (Further Seems Forever, MxPx). The band, then a trio, released "The Dead Next Door," its only full-length for Solid State, in 1999. Following their stint on that label, SPITFIRE would regroup as a quartet, issuing a CD EP on Goodfellow entitled "The Sideshow Whiplash" in 2001. The EP was well received upon its release, but the band itself was in turmoil. After several months of rumors, they split in late 2001, with several of its members moving on to other musical projects. The band reformed in 2005 as a quintet, having added guitarist Scottie Henry from Metal outfit Norma Jean and Dan Tulloh from the shock-rocking Scarlet into their ranks - The current incarnation of the group definitely the most menacing version yet. Musically, the modern-day SPITFIRE plays a hybrid of Hard Rock, Metal and Hardcore that's comparable to bands such as EVERY TIME I DIE, THE MELVINS and even VOIVOD, as well as the speedy Punk of HOT SNAKES. Recorded and engineered at Virginia's Red Planet Studios by Andreas Magnusson (The Black Dahlia Murder, Hot Cross, Scarlet) and mastered by Alan Douches at West West Side, "Self-Help" marks a dramatic improvement in the band's style and sound. The most confident, concise SPITFIRE album to date, fans of frantic, chaotic Technical heavy music should check out this underrated and under-appreciated band.
[WATCH]

05.12.06 (RockAndMetal.com) RAGE recently wrapped up their European tour in support of their latest album, "Speak Of The Dead." Guitarist Victor Smolski has issued the following post-tour update at his official website: "Enjoying all conveniences of my flat after more than 5 weeks in the tour bus, I would like to say 'thanks a lot' to all parties for their efforts at the great success of the Rage European tour (apart from some shows in Scandinavia - we really have to build up this market). The tour was quite exhausting and tight, but perfectly planned and organized by our booking agency, Dragon Productions. Thanks also to Peavy and Mike for their part at the success of the tour and for the raving volume on stage (it's still whistling in my ears...haha). Furthermore, special thanks to the best Rage crew of all times (Charly/sound engineer, Sascha/guitar tech, Jurgen/light & stage design), and our 'Queen of Merch', Jenny, who took care of our fans' heart-warming, and at Helge, our bus driver, who brought us home safely. Thanks also to our support band Freedom Call and for the great support of our endorsement companies and Nuclear Blast. I would like to excuse for the sound, which was particulately not perfect, but we have to work with the material which is provided. That's sometimes not easy and burdening to the nerves, but due to the great fans -- 'thanks a lot'-- it hasn't changed anything at the great vibes during the concerts! To get away from that Rock 'N' Roll trip, I will concentrate myself at some race training and at the first two championshipd of RTCC (Russian Touring Car Championship) in St. Petersburg and Moscow. On the circuit, I will collect lots of energy to be fit enough for a test flight with a Mig 29!! Furthermore, motorsports fans should notice of the days from the 15th up to the 18th of June. At that time I will take part at the Castrol-Haugg-Cup with my black BMW Alpina B6, and with a white Alfa Romeo Cup racecar at the 24h race on the Nurburgring." See you....Victor. The RAGE story begins way back in 1984 when AVENGER first got together. Following the arrival of their debut album, "Prayers Of Steel," and an EP, AVENGER changed their name and became RAGE, releasing "Reign Of Fear" in 1986. Albums came out at regular intervals, and RAGE toured with RUNNING WILD, U.D.O., MOTORHEAD and SAXON in the early '90s. Their 1992 album release " Trapped" marked their international breakthrough - a major highlight being the band's tour of Japan that year.
[WATCH]

05.11.06 (RockAndMetal.com) MISERY INDEX have announced plans to team up with FROM A SECOND STORY WINDOW, CATTLE DECAPITATION, ANIMOSITY and JOB FOR A COWBOY for an extensive U.S. Summer tour. Prior to that, MISERY INDEX kick off a three-week run of dates with DISFEAR plus intermittent appearances with the likes of PHOBIA, 9 SHOCKS TERROR, STRONG INTENTION and more. Tour Dates: 05/12 New York, NY [Downtime] • 05/13 New York, NY [CBGB] • 05/14 Providence, RI [Club Gyza] • 05/15 Wallingford, CT [Wallingford American Legion Hall] • 05/16 Buffalo, NY [Polish Library] • 05/17 Cleveland, OH [The Jigsaw] • 05/18 Lansing, MI [Oade's Hidden Camel] • 05/19 Chicago, IL [Nite Cap] • 05/20 Minneapolis, MN [Triple Rock] • 05/21 Madison, WI [The Annex] • 05/22 St. Louis, MO [Just Bills] • 05/23 Indianapolis, IN [Emerson Theatre] • 05/24 Columbus, OH [High Five] • 05/25 Pittsburgh, PA [Lawrenceville Moose Lodge] • 05/26 Baltimore, MD [Otto Bar] • 05/29 Lemoyne, PA [Championship Records] • 05/30 Syracuse, NY [Auburn Public Theate] • 05/31 Toronto, ON [Lee's Palace] • 06/01 Sherbrooke, QC [Theatre Granada] • 06/02 Montreal, QC [Club Soda] • 06/03 Quebec City, QC [Campus Charlesbourg] • 06/04 Cambridge, MA [Cambridge Elks Lodge] • 06/10 Fredericksburg, VA [KC's] • 06/11 Asbury Park, NJ [Stone Pony] • 06/12 Kingston, PA [Backstage Enterprises] • 06/13 Revere, MA [Club Lido] • 06/14 Hamden, CT [Hamden Elks Lodge] • 06/15 New York, NY [CBGB] • 06/16 Poughkeepsie, NY [The Loft] • 06/17 Kent, OH Screwy [Louie's] • 06/20 Des Moines, IA [House of Bricks] • 06/21 Oklahoma City, OK [The Glastnost] • 06/23 Houston, TX [Java Jazz] • 06/24 San Antonio, TX [White Rabbit] • 06/25 Corpus Christi, TX [The Ballroom] • 06/26 El Paso, TX [Chic's Bar] • 06/27 Phoenix, AZ [Metal Devastation] • 06/28 Anaheim, CA [Chain Reaction] • 06/29 Hollywood, CA [The Whiskey A Go-Go] • 06/30 Ventura, CA [Alpine] • 07/01 Bakersfield, CA [Jerry's Pizza] • 07/02 Fresno, CA [The Belmont] • 07/03 San Francisco, CA [The Pound] • 07/05 Orangevale, CA [The Boardwalk] • 07/06 Portland, OR [Rock N Roll Pizza] • 07/07 Seattle, WA [Studio Seven] • 07/08 Boise, ID [The Venue] • 07/10 Ogden, UT [Club Boom Va] • 07/11 Colorado Springs, CO [The Black Sheep] • 07/12 Papillion, NE [The Rock] • 07/13 St. Louis, MO [Creepy Crawl] • 07/14 Chicago, IL [Logan Square Auditorium] • 07/15 Southgate, MI [The Modern Exchange] • 07/16 Toronto, ON [Terror Fest] • 07/17 Binghamton, NY [Club Escape] • 07/18 Philadelphia, PA [First Unitarian Church] • 07/19 Baltimore, MD [Sonar] • 07/20 Centerreach, NY [Centerreach VFW] • 07/22 West Bend, IN [Skate Country]
[LISTEN]

05.10.06 (RockAndMetal.com) Avant Garde Technical Instrumental trio DYSRHYTHMIA continue to press on with an extensive string of U.S. tour dates with YAKUZA and BEHOLD...THE ARCTOPUS (with THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN beginning 7/15) throughout the Spring and Summer in support of their new album. Having established themselves as one of the finest instrumental bands in the world, DYSRHYTHMIA make the standard trio (guitar, bass, drums) setup sound like so much more, and complex, innovative music sound easy. On "Barriers And Passages," the band's new release on Relapse Records, the band raise the bar once again with their exceptional playing and unwavering dedication to forward-thinking song craft. Time signatures bend and shift intuitively as rich washes of melody and layers of noise are the voices that punctuate crisp musical constructions on the new album. Engineered by Martin Bisi (Sonic Youth, Dresden Dolls, Swans, Helmet, Brian Eno), "Barriers And Passages" is simply a modern technical tour de force. Tour Dates: 05/25 Philadelphia, PA [Khyber Pass] • 05/26 New York, NY [Tap Bar @ The Knitting Factory] • 05/27 Allston, MA [O'Brien's] • 05/28 New Haven, CT [Bar Nightclub] • 05/29 Fredericksburg, VA [The Bourbon Room] • 05/30 Charlotte, NC [The Milestone] • 05/31 Charleston, SC [Cumberlands] • 06/01 Myrtle Beach, SC [The Social] • 06/02 Athens, GA [Tasty World] • 06/03 Memphis, TN [Hi Tone] • 06/04 New Orleans, LA [One Eyed Jacks] • 06/05 Beaumont, TX [Vortex] • 06/06 San Antonio, TX [Sanctuary] • 06/07 Austin, TX [Emo's] • 06/08 Dallas, TX [Darkside Lounge] • 06/09 Albuquerque, NM [Launch Pad] • 06/10 Phoenix, AZ [The Tribe House] • 06/11 Los Angeles, CA [Alterknit Lounge @ The Knitting Factory] • 06/12 San Francisco, CA [Elbo Room] • 06/13 Portland, OR [Rock N Roll Pizza] • 06/14 Seattle, WA [El Corazon] • 06/15 Boise, ID [Grove St] • 06/16 Salt Lake City, UT [Club Vegas] • 06/17 Denver, CO [Larimer Lounge] • 06/18 Lawrence, KS [Replay Lounge] • 06/19 Minneapolis, MN [Triple Rock] • 06/20 Dubuque, IA [Busted Lift] • 06/21 Madison, WI [High Noon Saloon] • 06/22 Milwaukee, WI [Vnuks] • 06/23 Chicago, IL [Beat Kitchen] • 06/24 Dayton, OH [Elbo's] • 06/25 Columbus, OH [High Five] • 06/26 Cleveland, OH [Beachland Ballroom] • 06/27 Rochester, NY [Bug Jar] • 06/28 Williamsburg, NY [Union Pool Bar] • 07/14 Tucson, AZ [Skrappy's] • 07/15 Albuquerque, NM [Launch Pad] • 07/18 Houston, TX [Walter's On Washington] • 07/19 Dallas, TX [Gypsy Tea Room] • 07/20 Austin, TX [Emo's] • 07/21 Fayetteville, AR [The Music Hall] • 07/22 Des Moines, IA [House Of Bricks] • 07/23 Madison, WI [The Annex] • 07/28 Papillion, NE [The Rock] • 07/29 Wichita, KS [Headway Skatepark]
[FREE MP3]

05.09.06 (RockAndMetal.com) Sweden's SOILWORK have acquired guitarist Daniel Antonsson (Dimension Zero, Pathos) as the replacement for Peter Wichers, who left the band in December to pursue a career in producing. Wichers had this to say last December: "Soilwork has not only been my band but my second family and very good friends for almost 10 years. I'm just worn out from all the touring, and I have reached a point in my life where touring is just not possible for me anymore. I have decided to continue with my second passion in life, which is music production and recording, and in order to achieve this goal I need to put all my time and energy into it. Soilwork and me will remain great friends and I wish them all the success in the future." Soilwork will make their North American live debut with Antonsson this fall when return for a five-week tour that will take them coast to coast starting October 5th. Also appearing on the bill will be Darkest Hour, Mnemic and Threat Signal. Tour Dates: 10/05 Springfield, VA [Jaxx West] • 10/06 Poughkeepsie, NY [The Chance] • 10/07 Hartford, CT [Webster Theatre] • 10/09 Toronto, ON [The Opera House] • 10/10 Quebec City, QC [L'Imperial] • 10/11 Montreal, QC [Foufounes Electriques] • 10/12 Cohoes, NY [Saratoga Winners] • 10/13 Worcester, MA [The Palladium] • 10/14 Cleveland, OH [Peabody's Down Under] • 10/15 Mokena, IL [The Pearl Room] • 10/16 Omaha, NE [Sokol Underground] • 10/17 Englewood, CO [Gothic Theatre] • 10/19 San Francisco, CA [The Pound] • 10/20 Hollywood, CA [House Of Blues] • 10/21 Anaheim, CA [House Of Blues] • 10/22 Tempe, AZ [The Clubhouse] • 10/23 Albuquerque, NM [Launch Pad] • 10/24 San Antonio, TX [White Rabbit] • 10/25 Houston, TX [Warehouse Live] • 10/27 Ft. Lauderdale, FL [Culture Room] • 10/28 St. Petersburg, FL [The State Theatre] • 10/29 Lake Buena Vista, FL [House Of Blues] • 11/01 Atlanta, GA [The Masquerade] • 11/02 Jacksonville, NC [Planet Rock] • 11/03 Norfolk, VA [The Norva] • 11/04 Baltimore, MD [Sonar] • 11/05 New York City, NY [B.B. King's Blues Club] • 11/07 Philadelphia, PA [Starlight Ballroom] • 11/09 Pittsburgh, PA [Rex Theatre] • 11/10 Rochester, NY [Penny Arcade] • 11/11 Detroit, MI [Harpo's Concert Theatre]
[WATCH]

05.09.06 (AP) GUNS N' ROSES frontman Axl Rose made a surprise radio appearance to proclaim that the band's 10-years-in-the-making "Chinese Democracy" album will finally hit store shelves this Fall. The comments on Eddie Trunk's syndicated radio show marked the first interview the painfully private Rose has given since his failed 2002 comeback tour, which was abruptly scrapped midway amid riots and canceled shows. Rose's impromptu appearance came when former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach, who was co-hosting the show, called Rose's cell phone and patched the call through the studio. Quizzed on when the near-mythical album would come out, Rose said, "Sometime this fall or late fall." His band could be heard rehearsing in the background. "It will be out this year." Trunk invited Rose to drop by the studio, and about an hour later he did. Asked about the aborted 2002 comeback tour, which ended when Rose failed to appear for a gig in Philadelphia, Rose told Trunk he felt pressured into doing it before he was ready. But he insisted he has no regrets, since the short-lived tour helped the new band members to gel. (The 2002 lineup included keyboard player Dizzy Reed from the original Guns N' Roses, former Nine Inch Nails guitarist Robin Finck, bassist Tommy Stinson from The Replacements, guitar shredder Buckethead, drummer Brian "Brain" Mantia formerly of Primus, guitarist Richard Fortus from The Psychedelic Furs/Love Spit Love, and keyboard player Chris Pittman.) "Can you tell people why the tour ended at that point?" asked Trunk. "Umm, no, not exactly," said Rose, declining to discuss it. Plans are currently in the works for Rose to relaunch his comeback by playing four shows at New York's Hammerstein Ballroom over the next 10 days, then head to Europe to play several music festivals. Rose said the band at the Hammerstein shows will be similar to the one that played the 2002 tour, except for a new lead guitarist, whom he declined to identify except to say it's not an old GNR member. Buckethead left the band in 2004. However, later in the broadcast, Rose seemed to contradict himself when he said he's been hobnobbing with former GNR guitarist and songwriter Izzy Stradlin, and strongly hinted that Stradlin may show up for the Hammerstein shows. Former GNR guitar maestro Slash may end up back in the band as well, but probably not before the Hammerstein shows.
[LISTEN]

05.08.06 (RockAndMetal.com) Roadrunner Records USA has announced the signing of Connecticut's HATEBREED to the label. The band, a modern-day Hardcore institution who celebrated their 10-year anniversary in 2005, land at Roadrunner following the announcement of their 2006 Ozzfest participation and the release of their exclusive track on MTV2 Headbangers Ball: The Revenge. Having already worked with Roadrunner internationally for some time, Hatebreed vocalist and host of MTV2's Headbangers Ball Jamey Jasta says of the signing: "I speak for the whole band when I say that we are more than excited to have our next album be released on Roadrunner Records worldwide. We are all big fans of the label. We're proud that Roadrunner is the new home for our music and message." "Not only have Hatebreed been one of the most influential bands of the past decade - there's no doubt that their best days and most crushing music is ahead of them. It's a privilege to be working with not only Hatebreed but also with Jamey Jasta, the very face of aggressive music," says A&R man, Mike Gitter. Hatebreed has spent the past decade clawing its way up the Metalcore ranks, becoming one of the scene's best-selling bands, thanks to a strong work ethic, a busy tour schedule, and a seamless fusion of Hardcore and brutal Metallic riffs. The band worked on their first Roadrunner release, "Supremacy" -- due to street on August 29th -- with long-time producer Zeuss (Shadows Fall, Terror), and mixer Mike Frasier (Metallica, The Cult). Says Jasta of the album: "We feel that our new material is beyond anything we've ever done as far as ferocity and pure adrenaline goes. It is our most brutal and focused album to date while remaining true to our hardcore roots. We've added more thrash, death and crossover elements, and have been able to keep the songs memorable and precise. To me every song on this album is an anthem. Every song gives me chills and makes me feel completely charged." Ozzfest has tapped Hatebreed for the main stage this year. In previous years, the band played and headlined the second stage. Bassist Chris Beattie says of the Ozzfest opportunity: "It's an honor and privilege for us to be asked to fill a main stage slot and we promise not to disappoint any of our diehards out there! See you this summer!"
[WATCH]

05.08.06 (RockAndMetal.com) Horror Rock king and former Murderdolls frontman WEDNESDAY 13 has signed a new recording deal with Restless/Rykodisc Records. The label has set a late Summer release date for a new album, "Fang Bang," the follow up to 2005's "Transylvania 90210: Songs Of Death, Dying And The Dead (Roadrunner). Restless will first be releasing "Little Box Of Horrors" this week, a limited-edition box set of Wednesday 13's pre-Murderdolls band, Frankenstein Drag Queens From Planet 13. Before becoming frontman for the very successful Slipknot offshoot Murderdolls, Wednesday 13 lead the ultra-depraved Frankenstein Drag Queens for four albums before putting the band on hold in 2002. Featuring five CDs and one DVD, "Little Box Of Horrors" is a treasure trove of ghoulish delights and spans the band's history from 1996-2001 and includes all four of their original albums in "The Late, Late, Late Show," "Night Of The Living Drag Queens," "Songs From The Recently Deceased," "Viva Las Violence," plus the rarities disc "Rare Treats - A Previously Unreleased Collection Of Outtakes & Rarities" (which includes early versions of Murderdolls tracks) and a DVD entitled "Transvestite Chainsaw Massacre" which contains selections from a live concert in Spartanburg, South Carolina in 1998. Wednesday 13 has also announced an all-new band line up which reunites him with fellow Murderdoll Eric Griffin. Wednesday 13 comments: "I will be teaming up with my old Murderdoll band mate Eric Griffin, long-time friend Racci Shay (Genitorturers) and new pal Brix (Skrape/Dope) for the next chapter of rock 'n' roll debauchery in my life. I can't predict what this year will be like with this band, but I guarantee it will be nothing short of complete chaos...sorry in advance, and we'll see you all in hell!!!" Though best known for fronting the Murderdolls, Wednesday 13 is a Rock veteran who's been playing in bands since he was 15 years old. He adopted his stage moniker in 1995, naming himself after Wednesday of The Addams Family and the address, 1313 Mockingbird Lane, of The Munsters. A year later he formed Frankenstein Drag Queens From Planet 13, who were named in the spirit of legendary B-movie director Ed Wood.
[WATCH]

05.05.06 (RockAndMetal.com) Fremantle Home Entertainment will release "Heavy Metal - Louder Than Life," the definitive Metal documentary on May 22nd. The 2-disc DVD package provides a no-stone-unturned account for one of the most enduring forms of popular music the world has ever known. Packed with new interviews with dozens of movers and shakers of the Metal business, amazing live performances, rare archive footage and with a soundtrack of over 70 tracks, "Heavy Metal - Louder Than Life" is a good bet for Metal fans of all ages. Created by award winning duo director Dick Carruthers (Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, The White Stripes) and producer Jim Parsons (MTV Headbangers' Ball, New Kings Of Rock 'N' Roll, Re:covered) this is a long overdue film that unravels the music, the myths and the mayhem of Metal. Since its arrival in the late 60's, Metal has stood alone as a musical creative force, untouchable for emotion, power and longevity. From pioneering bands such as Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath and Deep Purple, through the 80's with Iron Maiden and into the 90's with the likes of Metallica and Pantera, there has never been a document which considers the continuing story of Metal like "Heavy Metal - Louder Than Life." It looks at the origins of Metal, how the genre grew, and how it has transcended fashion, misunderstanding, ridicule and ignorance. It is dedicated to the memory of Darrell "Dimebag" Abbott who was murdered on stage on December 8th, 2004, and features testimonials on his personal contribution and heavy influence on the modern Metal genre. With a total run time at over 4 hours in length including special features, some of the personalities interviewed in "Heavy Metal - Louder Than Life" include: Rob Halford, KK Downing and Glenn Tipton (Judas Priest), Ian Paice (Deep Purple), Geezer Butler (Black Sabbath), Ronnie James Dio, Klaus Meine (Scorpions), Kirk Hammett and James Hetfield (Metallica), Bernie Marsden, Micky Moody and Neil Murray (Whitesnake), Dee Snider (Twisted Sister), Paul Dianno (Iron Maiden), Graham Bonnet (Rainbow), Phil Taylor (Motorhead), Alex Skolnick (Testament), Scott Ian (Anthrax), Bobby Ellsworth (Overkill), Mitch Harris (Napalm Death), and members of some of today's modern Metal outfits such as Static-X, Kittie and God Forbid.

05.04.06 (RockAndMetal.com) This July, SHADOWS FALL will headline the third annual Strhess Tour, which will be their only U.S. run in support of their highly anticipated new release, "Fallout From The War." The trek is set to kick off with confirmed dates running from July 12th through August 11th with more dates to be announced, featuring an array of cutting edge acts that the Metalcore genre currently has to offer. This year's Strhess Tour also features Poison The Well in the direct support slot in addition to It Dies Today and Still Remains, with other acclaimed acts such as Darkest Hour, Bury Your Dead, Himsa, Throwdown and Suffocation joining the tour in select markets. Fans in Phoenix and San Diego will have the chance to witness history as The Strhess Tour joins forces with The Sounds of The Underground for two very special festival style shows. Visit the tour's official site at www.strhesstour.com for up-to-date information on tour news, opening acts in each market, and directions. Meanwhile, June 13th is the confirmed release date for "Fallout From The War," which contains 11 tracks. The album sessions were once again produced and mixed by long-time friend Zeuss (Hatebreed, God Forbid) at Planet Z Studios in the band's home state of Massachusetts. "Fallout From The War" follows the group's most acclaimed disc to date, "The War Within," which originally debut at #20 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart, has gone on to sell over 250,000 units in the U.S. alone, and features the Active Rock hit and Grammy-nominated track, 'What Drives The Weak.' Tour Dates: 06/10 Kansas City, MO [Liberty Memorial Park] (Rockfest) • 07/12 Norfolk, VA [The NorVa Theater] • 07/13 Washington, DC [9:30 Club] • 07/14 Buffalo, NY [Town Ballroom] • 07/15 Detroit, MI [Harpo's] • 07/16 Milwaukee, WI [Eagles Ballroom] • 07/17 Minneapolis, MN [The Quest] • 07/19 Denver, CO [Ogden Theatre] • 07/20 Salt Lake City, UT [Avalon Theatre] • 07/21 Boise, ID [Big Easy] • 07/22 Seattle, WA [Showbox] • 07/26 Mesa, AZ [Mesa Amphitheatre] (Sounds Of The Underground) • 07/27 San Francisco [The Fillmore] • 07/28 San Diego, CA [Soma] (Sounds Of The Underground) • 07/29 Hollywood, CA [Avalon] • 08/01 Dallas, TX [Gypsy Tea Room] • 08/02 Houston, TX [Meridian] • 08/04 Lake Buena Vista, FL [House Of Blues] • 08/05 Atlanta, GA [The Masquerade] • 08/07 Cincinnati, OH [Bogart's] • 08/08 Chicago, IL [House Of Blues] • 08/10 New York, NY [Nokia Theatre] • 08/11 Philadelphia, PA [Electric Factory]
[FREE MP3]

05.03.06 (RockAndMetal.com) SOCIETY 1 have set "The Years Of Spiritual Dissent" as the title for their first release through Crash Music, Inc. "The Years Of Spiritual Dissent" is a collection of Society 1's first two albums, "Slacker Jesus" and "Words As Carriers", which were both self-released on frontman Matt "The Lord" Zane's Inzane Records. "The Years Of Spiritual Dissent" also includes two cover songs, a brand new track entitled 'This Is The End,' and a bonus DVD. Crash Music -- with whom the band signed a new recording deal in late March -- has scheduled July 25th as the street date for the new release. Meanwhile, with the FX Network scheduled to air a documentary entitled "Revelation 666" on May 9th at 11:59 P.M., the show discusses the end of the world, the antichrist and the significance of the number 666 within Pop culture. Society 1 are the only band featured within the special, and were asked a variety of questions concerning their use of suspension, symbols, and magical rituals that have been integrated into their music and image. Society 1 are set to ring this century's 666 day (June 6, 2006) by headlining the "Satan's Rockin' Eve" event in Los Angeles on Monday, June 5th. The show is hosted by www.radiofreesatan.com, and features many Industrial, Metal, and Punk acts from around the world, and is Society 1's only U.S. performance of the year. The band will then head into the studio soon afterwards to record their next album, "Sadist Messiah" which is due out next in early 2007. Also be sure to check out Matt "The Lord" Zane's outrageous weekly radio show, "Why Do We Live." Matt Zane and Co-host Berzerk Kirk will talk about everything from music and politics to religion and sex. "Why Do We Live" airs every Thursday on www.radiofreesatan.com. Society 1 first rose to notoriety in 1999 with "Slacker Jesus" - adding to the media frenzy was the fact that Matt Zane was an acclaimed porn director, gaining worldwide infamy for his "Backstage Sluts" series. The band released two albums on Earache Records, 2003's "Exit Through Fear" and 2005's "The Sound That Ends Creation." Crash Music's Mark Nawara says: "Matt Zane is an extraordinary talent, and I believe he has a very bright future ahead of him. We are very excited to be working with him and Society 1."
[WATCH]

05.02.06 (RockAndMetal.com) DISARMONIA MUNDI's third album, "Mind Tricks," is confirmed for release on June 12th via Italy's Scarlet Records (Soundholic Records in Japan), following their much-acclaimed last offering, "Fragments Of D-Generation." The band, fronted by Soilwork's Bjorn "Speed" Strid on vocals, make a return on the new release with a lethal mix of technical and thrashing metal with crushing rhythmic heaviness, rumbling double-bass explosions and catchy, energetic, melodic riffing. "Mind Tricks was mixed at Fredman Studios (At The Gates, In Flames, Dark Tranquillity) and mastered by Goran Finnberg at the Mastering Room (Soilwork, Opeth, In Flames), and is being previewed by a stunning video for the song 'Celestial Furnace,' an example of how mature and personal Disarmonia Mundi's own style has become in recent years. A powerful version of Pantera's 'Mouth For War' will also be featured as well. Disarmonia Mundi started in at the beginning of 2000, and after many line-up changes recorded the self-produced "Nebularium," their first full-length album, in band member and mastermind Ettore Rigotti's home studio. Unfortunately, due to ongoing line-up instability, live performances in order to support the album never transpired, while the songwriting process for the next album slowed down. The only survivors from the former line-up, Ettore Rigotti and Mirco Andreis, joined forces with new screamer Claudio Ravinale and together they start working on new material, with former singer Benny Bianco Chinto writing some lyrics as well. After pre-production on the new tracks, Disarmonia Mundi recorded an impressive promo that allowed them the opportunity to sign with Scarlet Records. Firmly convinced to release another completely self-produced album, the band started recording sessions once again in Rigotti's home studio. In the meantime, they contacted with Bjorn "Speed" Strid, who immediately showed an interest in the band - so much so that he recorded the vocal parts for the new album. "Fragments Of D-Generation," off of which an excellent video for the multi-vocal song 'Red Clouds' was spawned, was also mixed by Goran Finnberg at the Mastering Room in Sweden and well-received by both fans and press upon it's release in May of 2004.
[FREE MP3]

05.01.06 (RockAndMetal.com) Modern Metal bruisers ALL SHALL PERISH have set "The Price Of Existence" as the title of their second Nuclear Blast Records offering, tentatively due this Aummer. According to a press release: "This new album from All Shall Perish shows incredible maturity and a more focused approach to both songwriting and delivery. Although 'Hate, Malice, Revenge' was in-your-face and plenty brutal, 'The Price of Existence' enables the band to encompass more of a convicted style to their music that will no doubt help them rise above the packs of metalcore/death crossover bands currently garnering attention." Commented drummer Matt Kuykendall: "The album is done and epic as fuck, the artwork is being finalized and hopefully won't be censored. The new songs are lightyears and warped speeds ahead of the past stuff...expect some ridiculous solos and crazy diverse songs!" Massive touring will ensue in support of the new album, starting off with a full U.S. tour with Suicide Silence and Light This City throughout July and August. Haling from Oakland California, All Shall Perish blasted on to the Bay Area scene in 2002 playing every kind of show imaginable. They quickly found themselves embraced by every facet of the insanely diverse music scene from Emo to Technical Death Metal. After recording their own self-titled 3 song demo, Japanese label Amputated Vein Records released the first All Shall Perish full-length album, "Hate.Malice.Revenge" in August of 2003. The 8-track debut proved to become an underground favorite over the next year, with late 2004 including a tour with Vehemence and Crematorium and the signing of a recording deal with Nuclear Blast. The label re-released "Hate.Malice.Revenge" in early 2005, after which the band spent the remainder of last year touring and simultaneously writing "The Price Of Existence," on which they will once again display a hybrid of modern Metal and Hardcore-influenced sounds, but unlike so many bands today, the Metal aspect of their music isn't solely confined to the sounds of Sweden, as the style of bands such as Dying Fetus, Cannibal Corpse and Internal Bleeding are responsible for much of the bands Death Metal roots. However, All Shall Perish also have blended into the mix sounds such as those emanating from others like Dimmu Borgir or All Out War.
[WATCH]

[Metal News: April 2006]
[Top]