Detritus
Issue #293
Week of October 25, 2004
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*** CAST OF CHARACTERS ***
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Tim Wadzinski, Editor
tsw512@...

Steve Shumake
vongoober@...
http://www.vongoober.com/

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*** LET IT BE KNOWN ***
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-I'm really looking forward to the Ozzy box set, THE PRINCE OF
DARKNESS, that's coming out early next year. See the "News/Rumors"
section below for some details -- it's got some great stuff! I'm happy
it's not recycling too many album tracks, but instead focusing on
rarities. I scanned the track listings and couldn't help but come up
with some other tunes that could've made the cut. Collaborations:
"Bombers (Can Open Bomb Bays)" and "Jack's World" from Bill Ward's
solo album WARD ONE: ALONG THE WAY, "Close My Eyes Forever" with Lita
Ford, "Hey Stoopid" with Alice Cooper, "Iron Head" with Rob Zombie,
and "Stillborn" with Black Label Society. B-sides and other rarities:
"Aimee," "Back On Earth," "Black Skies," "Don't Blame Me," "The Liar,"
"Living With The Enemy," "One Up The B-Side," "Party With The
Animals," "Voodoo Dancer," "The Whole World's Falling Down," and "You
Lookin' At Me Lookin' At You." (What'd I miss?) They easily could've
added another disc to the set. :)

-I hate to use Detritus for this purpose, but hey, it's my list so I
can. :) Anyone know where I can get the 1994 s/t release from Heyday?
I believe the label was either Room or Room Records. I only have a
cassette copy and I need it on disc! Thanks if you can help.

-Now in my current playlist: Zakk Wylde - 1987 Ozzy Demo (the MP3s are
available for free at http://www.sdmfworldwide.com/ ), Dio - MASTER OF
THE MOON (Sanctuary), Mogg/Way - CHOCOLATE BOX (Shrapnel), Artension -
INTO THE EYE OF THE STORM (Shrapnel), Kevin DuBrow - IN FOR THE KILL
(Shrapnel). (Yeah, I'm on a Shrapnel kick for some reason...) - Tim

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*** PRESS RELEASE #1 ***
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-Eternal Flight Singer Gérard Fois' Thoughts On Positive Rage

"Have you ever been dead? Oh, I don't say in the true sense of the
term, but more like how you feel when existence seems a big void and
you don't feel alive anymore. Then out of the pain comes a spark of
light, inspiration comes back and life flows again through your veins
like a burning fire, you're regenerated and like a phoenix you're born
again. You feel the wings of creation on your back and it gives you a
strong feeling, a...'Positive Rage'! We have all experienced that in
the band and I'm sure you did too. And you can sense that feeling on
the album I guess...no! I'm sure! We wanted also to give an
alternative to our nowadays restless and dangerous world and say that
everything is not lost. Oh sure the album is not naïve lyrically,
we're aware of what happens in the world and we have a cynical and
critic overview on those greedy bastards that rule the world in songs
like 'New world,' 'The masks will fall.' But I think that we don't
have to give up and we must react and make them see that we are not at
their mercy and that we (I talking about people in general well those
who are not blind) are unique, strong, creative, sensible and not
idiots. You will find also some fantasy, science fiction stuff too,
but again where is the fine line between reality and dreams? Read
between the lines...Musically we will transport you in different
dimensions, ok we remain in the Power/Prog metal fields, with fast,
slow and mid tempo songs but we want to make sure that you will
discover new places and that at the same time you stay captivated by
catchy hooks and melodies. We like to show you our musicianship and
ability but at the same time we don't want to give you the impression
that we're extra terrestrial entities showing you how fast we can play
our instruments with four hands, or sing with 6 vocal chords! We're
humans and we like to share our feelings with you through our
'Positive Rage.'"

Eternal Flight's Positive Rage is out now through Cruz del Sur.

http://www.cruzdelsurmusic.com/

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*** PRESS RELEASE #2 ***
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-Pharaoh: Chris Black Speaks!

Pharaoh drummer Chris Black reported that the band decided on MCR
Studios in Virginia for the recording of The Longest Night.

"This is a full-service, modern facility, with a very metal-minded
staff," he stated. "Tim, Matt, Chris and I are eager for their input
in crafting the new record." Full-length albums from Division and
Twisted Tower Dire are currently in production at MCR.

Pharaoh will begin recording The Longest Night in late 2004 for a
projected release date in March, 2005 via the designer Italian metal
label Cruz del Sur. Cover artwork will once again be provided by J.P.
Fournier (Immortal, Dragonforce).

Featuring such tracks as "Fighting," "As Time Goes By," and "I am the
Hammer," The Longest Night will be Pharaoh's second full-length album,
following up 2003's acclaimed After the Fire debut. "The new material
expands the Pharaoh sound slightly," explained the drummer, "but the
fundamentals are exactly the same: power, class, wit, and melody. We
celebrate the traditions of heavy metal by advancing them. And it
helps that Tim kills!" he added, referring to powerhouse vocalist Tim
Aymar, well-known for his past work with Control Denied and Psycho
Scream.

http://www.cruzdelsurmusic.com/

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*** PRESS RELEASE #3 ***
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-New Release From Radiant Records

Hello there,

Great news! We just got the Neal Morse "ONE" Special Edition CDs AND
the Spock's Beard "The Making of SNOW" DVDs delivered to our door! We
will be shipping them out soon so if you haven't ordered yet NOW'S THE
TIME.

We've lowered prices throughout our site so be sure to browse around
and pick up some great prog at great prices!

NEW RELEASE: Tangent CD "The World That We Drive Through."

Here's some info about it:

Tangent - The World That We Drive Through Special Edition
Three generations of progressive music -- Roine Stolt (The Flower
Kings), David Jackson (Van Der Graaf Generator), Andy Tillison
(Parallel or 90 Degrees) -- one remarkable album.

The Tangent is a unique musical project that brings together
countries, eras, styles and a group of highly individual musicians.
Roine Stolt has, since 1994, amazed the progressive rock fraternity
with his band "The Flower Kings," who have set benchmarks for
progressive rock in the past decade. As well as this, he's been
involved with the hugely successful super-group "Transatlantic" who
have wowed audiences worldwide. Roine is a pivotal figure in today's
progressive scene. David Jackson needs little introduction to anyone
with knowledge of progressive rock history. One of the most creative
musicians that Britain has ever produced, David played saxophones and
flute for that most eclectic and diverse of first wave progressive
bands, Van Der Graaf Generator. Andy Tillison is more of an unknown
here. As founder of the cutting edge UK progressive band, "Parallel or
90 Degrees," he has consistently provided challenges to the world of
progressive music by writing material that continually repositions the
relevance of progressive rock music in the 21st Century.

The newest release by The Tangent, "The World That We Drive Through,"
is now available and features a mix of gorgeous melodies, lush jazz-
inflected instrumental passages and virtuoso musicianship. We've got
'em in stock now!

Special Edition features a bonus track and enhanced booklet.

Order now at http://www.radiantrecords.com/ .

Thanks,

Jessica Mears
Radiant Records

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*** PRESS RELEASE #4 ***
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-Second Annual ALL ACCESS Magazine Awards Show On Saturday, November
6th

GreenStock Productions, known for their involvement in the L.A.
community with charity events such as their annual Toys For Tots
benefit "Rock the Toy Box" and other fundraisers, will present The 2nd
Annual ALL ACCESS Magazine Music Awards Show November 6, 2004, at the
Key Club, 9039 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, CA, 90069. This event is
18 and over with general admission only $15.00. Limited reserved
restaurant seating is available for $25.00. Tickets are available
online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/ , but you must call the Key
Club directly for reserved seating at 310-274-5800. Doors will open at
6 p.m.

Our Master of Ceremonies this year will again be J.J Garcia. As a
performer and recording artist himself for over a decade, J.J. has
just what it takes to keep our show interesting and on track. We'll
also have guest presenters for over 40 awards, and will crown Miss ALL
ACCESS 2004.

Interspersed among the awards will be special live performances by
several well-known artists. Suburban Noize Records recording artists
OPM, an L.A.-based band successfully blending up a little hip hop and
pop with some laid-back reggae rhythms, will appear in support of
their new release "ForThemAsses!" ThundHerStruck, the ultimate all-
girl tribute band to AC/DC, has been packing venues and kickin' tail
all summer long, now it's time to party! Multi-award-winning Carbon 9,
supporting their new release, "COTM, Renewed Beginnings," have taken
rock, melodic and industrial music to a completely different level.
Hypnogaja, one of the hardest working indie groups around, has indeed
arrived at a powerful destination with their melodic rock's raging
energy fueled by compelling lyrics. Judge Jackson's old-school rock-n-
roll is blended with hint of southern edge for a straight-up, "what
you see is what you get" attitude, and they'll rock your world as they
support their release "One Diamond." The newest sensation on the music
scene, Rue's music is fresh, dynamic and powerful, hard rock and heavy
yet full of light. Sexy frontwoman Jenna Ross's unbelievable passion
and powerful vocals will consume you. Silver Needle is a "hardcore
punk-fueled pop rock band" based here in the Hollywood area. Together
since 1999, Silver Needle has developed quite a fan base, and their
dynamic stage show and overwhelming enthusiasm won't be stopped. Pop-
rock Lily's Siren, another favorite on today's music scene, blends a
little No Doubt and Evanescence together to create a sound that's all
their own. Backed by one solid band, frontwoman Lucy Levinsohn is as
talented as she is beautiful. And you'll be glad you saw Australia's
Ocianic: lead vocalist Aron is simply mesmerizing. Their sound
resembles U2 with an Australian twist and is a delight to anyone's
ears.

The 2nd Annual ALL ACCESS Magazine Awards Show's sponsors include CD
Baby, Monster Energy Drink, Minarik Guitars, Sabian, Stylus, Taye
Drums, The Atomic Chasers Rockers and Rollers, Crown Desert Images, CD
Labs, Online Gigs, Topham Custom Drums, and Kangaroo Amp Covers.

All Access Magazine.com
http://www.allaccessmagazine.com/

ALL ACCESS Rocks vol. 1
Our 1st CD Sampler is HERE! Get your's FREE with a subscription to AAM
or pick one up at any AAM sponsored event!

2nd Annual All Access Magazine Music Awards Show
Sat. Nov 6, 2004
Key Club 9039 Sunset Blvd. W. Hollywood
18 & Over General Admission $15.00

VOTE, VOTE, VOTE
Survey #17: All Access Music Awards
http://www.myke1.net/PHP/UCCASSv1.06/survey.php?sid=17

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*** PRESS RELEASE #5 ***
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-Starwood To Launch Tour For "If It Ain't Broke, Break It!" With
Concerts In Hollywood & U.K.

Band Prepares for Shows with UFO & Vince Neil as First Video,
"Subculture," Nears Completion.

Starwood fans are about to get the big "break" they deserve: the Metal
Blade recording artists have confirmed they will begin a world tour
for their label debut, If It Ain't Broke, Break It! in their hometown
-- Hollywood, California -- on November 15, sharing the bill at the
House of Blues with the legendary UFO. The next day, Starwood is off
to the U.K. for a series of dates with Vince Neil.

The tour announcement comes just as Starwood is shooting the first
video from If It Ain't Broke, Break It! According to vocalist/
guitarist Lizzy, who produced the recording with band mate Joey Scott
(drums & percussion/backing vocals), the song, "Subculture," is an
invitation to those who will never be in the elite of society to join
Starwood and others like them in the subculture of Hollywood.

The video mixes performance footage with scenes celebrating the
Hollywood scene Starwood celebrates in their music. "Subculture" is
just one of several tracks on If It Ain't Broke, Break It! garnering
nationwide airplay and favorable notices. Others include "All My
Girlfriends Have Boyfriends," "What's Your Damage" and "Backlash."

"A simply entertaining disc of high octane pop metal material...
Starwood plays it like it is with songs that.. kick you in the ass and
might even get your head banging," states the Music Connection,
adding: "This is an album for anyone who kneels before the Gods for
the return of carefree arena rock." According to Metal Edge, Starwood
"leans heavily to 70s era icons like KISS, Cheap Trick and New York
Dolls, but they pummel forth in a very sleazier version of the above.
The production is very raw yet polished in all the right spots making
it a very strong rock record." Crave claims If Ain't Broke, Break It!
boasts "an impressive old school rock feel" and hopes Starwood is "the
band that brings back those Hollywood rock bands that got swept away
so many years ago," while Metal Invader comes right to the point:
"simple 70s-style, goodtime RNR, glamy, sleazy and filthy as hell,
catchy, full of simple hooks and driving rhythms with attitude that
kicks ya in the face."

Lizzy says he chose to name the band after the famed 70s Hollywood
club because the Starwood was where fans started seeing metal, but the
venue continued to host shows by rock, pop and punk bands, all
elements that can be heard in the band's music. Along with Lizzy and
Joey Scott, Starwood features Marten Andersson on bass and backing
vocals and Joe Steals on lead, rhythm and slide guitars and backing
vocals. Starwood is planning an extensive tour for the new year.

Confirmed Tour Dates:
11/15 Hollywood, CA Hollywood House of blues w/ UFO
11/17 London, ENG Astoria Theatre w/ Vince Neil
11/18 Gradford, ENG Town & Country w/ Vince Neil
11/19 Dudley, ENG JBs w/ Vince Neil
11/20 Newport, WALES City Live Arena w/ Vince Neil
11/21 Nottingham, ENG Rock City w/ Vince Neil

For more information go to: http://www.starwood-band.com/

Starwood - Reviews and Interviews

Music Connection says: "Here is a simply entertaining disc of high-
octane pop metal. Starwood plays it like it is with ripping leads
between vocals lines That kick you in the ass! This is an album for
anyone who kneels before the gods For the return of carefree arena
rock."

Starwood's debut release "If It Ain't Broke, Break It!" received a 5
star rating on RocknWorld.com's review section. Other bands to have
reached the 5 star rating recently are The Darkness, Sparta, HIM, and
The Vines. The band was also featured in the Day In Rock section by
AntiMusic where they occasionally highlight a standout CD on the day
of release. The last CD featured was The Cure's new self-titled album.
More Reviews and Interviews:
http://rd.bcentral.com/?ID=2220526&s=11266833

We Want You! - Join the Starwood Street Team!

We are assembling the troops for induction for our new Starwood street
team.

We are looking for Special Forces from every city around the world to
spread the word that Starwood is here! All you have to do is to be
considered for the Street Team is to send your name, city (country),
email address, and a short paragraph explaining why YOU would be the
best person to promote Starwood here:
http://rd.bcentral.com/?ID=2220535&s=11266833

Starwood Promotion Flyer

Help us spread the word about Starwood. Print out, make copies, flyer
your local shows, record store and whatever else you can think of.

Click Here to Download Flyer (2.8 MG):
http://rd.bcentral.com/?ID=2220532&s=11266833

Extensive Radio List Added

Request "Starwood" at a Radio station near you. Click Here for More:
http://rd.bcentral.com/?ID=2220528&s=11266833

Websites and Contact Information:

Starwood
http://rd.bcentral.com/?ID=2220536&s=11266833

Metal Blade Records
http://rd.bcentral.com/?ID=2220533&s=11266833

Siren Artist Management
http://rd.bcentral.com/?ID=2220529&s=11266833

Kathy Acquaviva - Publicist
kathymedia@... (use subject "Starwood Inquiry")

Paradise Booking Agency
http://rd.bcentral.com/?ID=2220531&s=11266833

Order Starwood CD

"If It Ain't Broke, Break It!" is in stores World-wide! Order CD:
http://rd.bcentral.com/?ID=2220538&s=11266833

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*** PRESS RELEASE #6 ***
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-Vinny Records And 91 Suite

Vinny Records is proud to announce the transfer of one of its bands,
91 Suite, to the Vicious Records label. This label is a personal bet
by the ex-promotion director of companies like Sony, Universal and
Horus in Spain during the last 30 years.

91 Suite is the second signing of the label which is already promoting
the German singer Maike Ludenbach ( http://www.maikeworld.com/ ) in
national radio, TV, in concerts, etc.

The main reason for this deal is the conviction that with this change
the band will continue growing and showing its music to a larger
amount of people due to the power and experience of this new label.

From now on Vinny Records will be the management office for the band
so we will continue by their side and we will keep on serving you the
way we have been doing it until now.

91 Suite will begin recording their new album oon November 15th and if
everything goes as planned it will be finished three months later so
its release date could be at the end of February.

The band will record 14 of the 18 Demoed songs.

We want to thank on our behalf and the band's everyone who has
supported the band in any way, to all the fans and journalists who
have spread the word about all the band's movements. Also thanks for
those who haven't helped because you have given us more reasons to
progress.

Best Regards.

Vinny Records

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-Bill Leverty & FireHouse Updates

[Note: This is from Bill's LevertyNews e-mail newsletter. - Tim]

Hi Everybody -

Here's a quick update of what's going on:

My first ever side project, Bill Leverty's WANDERLUST, is getting
great reviews. For those of you who have already gotten your copy,
thank you VERY much for your support. If you still haven't gotten
yourself a copy, please go to this website, listen to the sound clips,
and pick one up:
http://www.wanderlustband.com/

FireHouse has some tour dates that you might be interested in. We're
about to play in Canada for the first time in a long time, so please
come out to the shows. Here's what's confirmed today, with more coming
in all the time, so please check my website or the FireHouse website
for the very latest:

10/22/2004 - Toledo OH * Toledo Sports Arena * Singing National Anthem
for Toledo Storm hockey game with full production gig after the game!
10/23/2004 - Bay City MI * Westown Theater * 615 East Midland Street /
tel: (989) 895-9005
10/29/2004 - Menasha WI * Waverly Beach * N8770 Firelane 1 (1 Block
South of Jct. 10 & 114); Venue Phone: (920) 733-9721
10/30/2004 - Wausau WI * Tommy O'Shanes * T814 County Road WW / tel:
(715) 675-5707
10/31/2004 - Milltown WI * The Hall * 22 West Main Street / tel: (715)
825-4255
11/05/2004 - Fenton MO * Stratford Bar & Grill * 800 South Highway
Drive / tel: (636) 343-5757
11/06/2004 - Bethalto IL * Hollywood Nights * Texas Boulevard / tel:
(618) 377-4653
11/21/2004 - Regina SK *The Pump*
11/22/2004 - South Calgary AB *Outlaws*
11/23/2004 - Edmonton AB *King Night Pub*
11/24/2004 - Saskatoon SK *Ryly's*
02/11/2005 - Woodbury MN * Major's Sports Bar * 1690 Woodlane Drive /
tel: (651) 739-8770
02/12/2005 - Amery WI * Tac Night Club * 1361 100th Street / tel:
(715) 268-6262

Thanks again for your support and I hope to see you on tour... Bill
http://www.firehousemusic.com/
http://www.leverty.com/
http://www.wanderlustband.com/

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-Heaven & Earth's Debut Reissued With Bonus Tracks

Black Star Records, the new rock label opened up by Stuart Smith &
Richie Onori of Heaven & Earth have re-released the first Heaven &
Earth CD with 2 new bonus tracks. One with Bobby Kimball of Toto
singing and the other with Joe Lynn Turner of Rainbow handling vocals
on a smoking version of Gary Moore's "Still Got The Blues." Copies are
will be in stores on November 2nd but copies are available right now
from the band's website at http://www.heavenandearthband.com/ .

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-The Ferocious GWAR Unleashes Its War Party Upon The American Masses
On October 26th Through DRT Entertainment

Official North American "Mock The Vote" Campaign Embarking Day-Of-
Release

Like a classic Mongol invasion, the insurmountable GWAR returns to
America from an extended Antarctican exile to shake the foundations of
the 2004 Presidential Election with their recently appointed bid, War
Party. The Campaign trail, kicking off on October 26th and sponsored
by DRT Entertainment (who support the likes of Lit, Clutch, Fu Manchu,
and Edwin McCain), GWAR is primed to turn the electoral proceedings on
its head. Armed with Campaign slogans like "Bring Back The Bomb,"
"Krosstika," "The Reaganator," and "You Can't Kill Terror", GWAR is
sure to secure the majority Independent Vote.

When approached for comment on why GWAR has chosen to run, spokesman/
Supreme Overlord Oderus Urungus offered his impression on the current
state of our country: "Complete Anarchy, disorder, crime, the elite
occupying their 1% position on the $&@#heap. We plan to invert this
$&@#heap and burrow to the top!"

GWAR, an axe-wielding counter-political organization currently
consisting of delegates Urungus, Balsac The Jaws Of Death, Jizmak The
Gusha, Flattus Maximus, and Beefcake The Mighty is embroiled by the
degradation of the nation, and plans to take full advantage of this
opportunity.

Complete details of GWAR's campaign intent can be found at this
bacterial-encrusted viral player/e-card, which includes numerous
campaign slogans, visual propaganda and other pertinent campaigning
material: http://www.hyfntrak.com/gwar/fromafriend/

Urungus continues, "Our main priority is to crucify all remaining
politicians, sack the Senate, rape the Congress, and abolish all laws.
It will be a yearlong orgy of raping and crucifying of old men up and
down the Mall in Washington, DC. We would set fire to their golf
clubs, and on the flayed skin of their backs, we will compose a new
Constitution of disorder, signed in fecal matter!"

When asked what politicians are most deserving of GWAR's attention,
Oderus puts it succinctly, "To elevate one to a particular point of
suffering above another would be to imply that there was something
special about any of them, and I don't want to do that. We're going to
take members of your culture that we deem offensive or admirable and
put them to death in various horrible ways to the soundtrack of
blazing heavy metal." One can only assume that the likes of Mr. GW
Bush, Osama Bin-Laden, and Senator John Kerry will be making guest
appearances on GWAR's campaign tour. Oderus did point out that
California "Governator" Arnold Schwarzenegger has joined the War Party
and will be touring with GWAR as a special guest.

Issues on the organization's platform include pro-abortion, same-sex
animal marriage, and indiscriminate execution for all. GWAR also
supports the rights of America's youth. Oderus explains, "I firmly
believe that if you can take young people, ship them halfway around
the world, give them multi-million dollar weapon systems to play with,
then they SHOULD be able to buy beer...and vote!"

And his response to solving the crisis in the Middle East, he states,
"You can't give something to a people, especially if they don't want
it. America is missing the entire point here. The War Party knows
exactly what to do. To solve this whole problem in the Middle East is
to nuke Mecca! We feel no discrimination in our plan to destroy
everyone: the Islams, the Americans, the powermad Zionists. They're
all gonna die and joined together in some giant, blazing nuclear
fireball at some point, and we're just trying to hasten that destiny,
so we can get on with what will happen afterwards."

Therefore, who has the best odds of winning the 2004 Presidential
Election?

Bush. Kerry. Nader. Neither! ODERUS!!!

Catch GWAR on their unequivocal War Party "Mock The Vote" Tour
throughout autumn:

Tue, Oct 26 - Norfolk, VA - The NorVa
Wed, Oct 27 - New York, NY - Spirit Performance Center
Thu, Oct 28 - Latham, NY - Saratoga Winners
Fri, Oct 29 - Worcester, MA - Palladium
Sat, Oct 30 - Portland, ME - The State Theater
Sun, Oct 31 - Philadelphia, PA - Electric Factory
Tue, Nov 2 - Montreal, QC, Can. - Club Soda
Wed, Nov 3 - Ottawa, ON, Can. - Capital Music Hall
Thu, Nov 4 - Toronto, ON, Can. - Opera House
Fri, Nov 5 - Detroit, MI - Harpo's
Sat, Nov 6 - Millvale, PA - Mr. Small's Theatre
Sun, Nov 7 - Rochester, NY - Water Street Music Hall
Mon, Nov 8 - State College, PA - Crowbar
Wed, Nov 10 - Cleveland, OH - The Odeon
Thu, Nov 11 - Chicago, IL - House of Blues
Fri, Nov 12 - Urbana, IL - Canopy Club
Sat, Nov 13 - Sauget, IL - Pop's
Sun, Nov 14 - Colombus, OH - Newport Music Hall
Mon, Nov 15 - Milwaukee, WI - The Eagles Club
Tue, Nov 16 - Cinncinnati, OH - Bogart's
Fri, Nov 19 - Minneapolis, MN - First Avenue
Sat, Nov 20 - Winnipeg, MB, Can. - Pyramid Cabaret
Sun, Nov 21 - Saskatoon, SK, Can. - The Roxy on Broadway
Mon, Nov 22 - Edmonton, AB, Can. - Red's Entertainment Complex
Tue, Nov 23 - Calgary, AB, Can. - University of Calgary
Wed, Nov 24 - Vancouver, BC, Can. - Commodore Ballroom
Thu, Nov 25 - Victoria, BC, Can. - Sugar Night Club
Fri, Nov 26 - Seattle, WA - Premier
Sat, Nov 27 - Portland, OR - Roseland Theater
Sun, Nov 28 - Petaluma, CA - Phoenix Theater
Mon, Nov 29 - San Francisco, CA - DNA Lounge
Wed, Dec 1 - Tempe, AZ - Marquee Theater
Thu, Dec 2 - Santa Ana, CA - Galaxy
Fri, Dec 3 - West Hollywood, CA - Key Club
Sat, Dec 4 - Chico, CA - The Senator Theatre
Sun, Dec 5 - Bend, OR - The Midtown
Tue, Dec 7 - Salt Lake City, UT - Lo-Fi Cafe
Wed, Dec 8 - Denver, CO - Ogden Theatre
Thu, Dec 9 - Albuquerque, NM - Sunshine Theater
Fri, Dec 10 - Oklahoma City, OK - Diamond Ballroom
Sat, Dec 11 - Springfield, MO - Rockwell
Sun, Dec 12 - Dallas, TX - Trees
Tue, Dec 14 - Houston, TX - Engine Room
Wed, Dec 15 - New Orleans, LA - House of Blues
Fri, Dec 17 - Lake Buena Vista, FL - House of Blues
Sat, Dec 18 - Fort Lauderdale, FL - Culture Room
Sun, Dec 19 - Tampa, FL - Masquerade
Mon, Dec 20 - Atlanta, GA - Masquerade
Tue, Dec 21 - N. Myrtle Beach, SC - House of Blues Myrtle Beach

http://www.drt-entertainment.com/
http://www.gwar.net/

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-Templars Of Doom -- The Second Crusade

Greetings,

Templars Of Doom -- The Second Crusade has been set a foot. Booking
has begun for the festival for next year. It will be held on July 8th
and 9th of 2005. To date, here are the bands that have already
confirmed to partake in this crusade:

Penance
Reverend Bizarre (FIN)
Pale Divine
Orodruin
The Gates Of Slumber
Well Of Souls
Devil To Pay
Against Nature (x-Revelation)

More bands will be announced.

Like before this will be held in the wasteland known to all as
Indianapolis IN. It will be held at the same location Birdy's Night
Club and is a 21+ venue ( http://www.birdyslive.com/ ). All advanced
tickets will be supplied through Hellride Music (
http://www.hellridemusic.com/ ) at a closer date.

Also a brief tour under the name of "The Pilgrimage Of Doom" with
Reverend Bizarre and The Gates Of Slumber will coincide with the
festival. Dates will come forth as things get booked for this as well.

For more information for the festival and the tour go to
http://www.templarsofdoom.com/ .

Thank you.

Jason McCash
The Gates Of Slumber
Templars Of Doom -- The Second Crusade July 8th and 9th, 2005

"According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of
Slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not
hear, Unto this day"
Romans 11:8

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*** PRESS RELEASE #11 ***
*
-The "Down Boys" Are Coming To Canada

Warrant Plays Canada - November 21st To The 24th

HOLLYWOOD -- Warrant is out on a limited run of Canadian dates this
Fall. They will get down and dirty playing all of their hard-hitting
biggest hits.

Hitting 7 million in record sales worldwide, 5 top 40 hits and 5 top
MTV videos, the "Down Boys" can still leave the crowds wanting more.
Performing their popular songs "Heaven" (#2), "Down Boys" and of
course "Cherry Pie," Warrant gives the fans what they want, non-stop.

Tour Dates:

November 21st - Regina - The Pump
November 22nd - Calgary - Outlaws Roadhouse
November 23rd - Edmonton - Kings Knight Pub
November 24th - Saskatoon - Ryly's

Warrant's line-up consists of original members Erik Turner (guitar),
Jerry Dixon (bass), Joey Allen (lead guitar), Steven Sweet (drums) and
new addition Jaime St. James (vocals).

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*** PRESS RELEASE #12 ***
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-Z Records News

SONIC X PREPARE FOR DEBUT RELEASE

Sonic X will finally have their self titled debut released in 7 days
time, the much anticipated album has already been receiving rave
reviews on the most respected internet sites and European press.

Joe and Adam from Sonic X gave us a brief track by track insight into
their awesome debut.........

1. News for You - This song has a dark moody feel, with a tight
aggressive groove. It's about being pissed off at various people as we
were at the time. Metaphoric lyrics, chunky guitars, and a powerful
rhythm section move this track.

2. City Of Sin - City of Sin is a dark metaphoric account of what I
was going through when we were trying to break into the music
industry. The overall vibe of this one is dark, western, and seedy. I
love it.

3. Two Sides - This song is about a girl I once knew who was trying to
get my girl, at that time, to become an escort for extra money. So
when I heard the opening riff and the groove, this one wrote itself.
Of course the names have been changed to protect the innocent (Or the
guilty) which ever you choose.

4. Witches Den - The riff in this song just rips your head right off.
From start to finish it just plain rocks. It was written about late
night dealings with people and things that shouldn't be.

5. Lonely Heart - Another moody song about being in love with someone
who isn't in love with you, yet you kid your self into thinking it's
not true because "Your Lonely Heart Can't Take The Pain". The
throbbing bass line and rock solid drums move this track right along,
more of the tight harmonized guitars.

6. Obsession - Starts off with strong guitars in harmony into a nice
chunky rhythm, building to a strong chorus. The song is about a woman
I was completely and utterly obsessed with, only thing is, I was with
someone else.

7. Seasons Change - Big ballad with lots of hooks. This song is all
about love lost and how you look back on it and try to heal.

8. Broken Wings - Big guitars, rolling base line, Bonham like drums,
soaring vocals, this song is all about chasinga dream and people
telling you, you can't make it.

9. Feed the Flame - This song is all about addiction and how it
controls your mind. With its dark eerie guitars, off time drum outro,
pulsating bass, and seething vocals you have to listen to this one in
the dark.

Further news concerning the band will be posted at the Z Records site
later this week including the launch of the band's official website.

http://www.zrecords.net/

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*** PRESS RELEASE #13 ***
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-Calling All Headbangers! Hardcore Metal Fans Invited To New Anthrax
Video Shoot In NYC

In celebration of the 20th Anniversary of being one of the few truly
fan-friendly heavy metal bands in the world, Anthrax has offered an
open invitation to headbangers around the country to participate in
the filming of their latest video, an updated version of the classic
cut "Deathrider", taken from the forthcoming historic release The
Greater Of Two Evils.

The video is being filmed at the new Snitch Night Club (59 West 21st
Street; between 5th and 6th Avenues) on Thursday, October 28th between
10pm - 2am. The video is slated to contain everyone from your "average
joe", to porn stars, the Naked Cowboy in Times Square, the hot
strippers from TENs down the street, special celebrity guest
appearances, and ample amounts of banging heads and slamming fists. In
classic Anthrax form, "Deathrider" is designed to display the band in
their natural setting, united among the people!

The Greater of Two Evils, released November 23rd through Sanctuary
Records is a trip down memory lane, featuring 14 tracks of Anthrax
classics, re-recorded and updated with the vocal potency of longtime
singer John Bush. The entire track listing was culled from an Internet
voting campaign at http://www.anthrax.com/ in appreciation of their
fans, and in anticipation of the band's proposed monumental 2005
Anniversary World Tour.

For more directions to The Snitch, call 212-675-8007, or see
http://www.anthrax.com/ for more details.

*
*** NEWS/RUMORS ***
*
-Century Media Records announced a detailed review of Blind Guardian's
new double DVD, IMAGINATIONS THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS, is available
now at http://www.metalreviews.com/ . The DVD was released October 5.
See http://www.blind-guardian.com/ for more.

-Bon Jovi plans to follow up the November 15 release of its four-CD,
one-DVD box set 100,000,000 BON JOVI FANS CAN'T BE WRONG with a new
studio ablum next spring. [Nice box set title, eh? Jon always has been
so subtle... - Tim]

-Guitarist Mark Chaussee, formerly of Fight and Danzig, reportedly is
joining Marilyn Manson's touring band.

-What's up with Cinderella? Apparently not much. A brief interview
with guitarit Jeff LaBar, conducted by Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles
writer Mitch Lafon, is on-line now at
http://www.bravewords.com/news.html?id=18890 . In it LaBar talks about
joining Cinderella band mate Eric Brittingham's new band, Naked
Beggars, saying "I have more input in this band than I ever did in
Cinderella." They hope to start recording a second album within a few
months. Regarding Cinderella, LaBar sheds some light on the last few
years and the recent, ill-fated three-album deal with Sony. There are
tons of new songs written and at least demo'd, but main man Tom Keifer
is working on a solo project. The rest of the guys have no intention
of carrying on without him as Cinderella. For more on Naked Beggars
see http://www.NakedBeggars.net/ .

-Crystal Eyes announced main man Mikael Dahl will step down as lead
vocalist, turning over the mic to former Lost Horizon vocalist Daniel
Heiman. Dahl will continue as guitarist and song writer, and the new
album CONFESSIONS OF THE MAKER is due out next year. Dahl and Heiman
played together in a cover band in the early '90s, and Heiman sang
"The Wizard's Apprentice" on Crystal Eyes' last album, VENGEANCE
DESCENDING.

-Even Vast, the "Italian electro goth metal" band, has an MP3 of the
new version of its song "Dawning Gloom" available now at
http://www.even-vast.com/Dawning%20Gloom%202004.mp3 . The band's next
album SURRENDER is due out early in 2005 on Cruz del Sur.

-Fates Warning's newie FWX is out now on Metal Blade. Check out an MP3
of "Simple Human" on-line now at
http://www.metalblade.com/bands/fates_warning/fates_warning-fwx-simhum.mp3
.

-Heavenly has added guitarist Olivier Lapauze, bassist Matthieu Plana,
and drummer Thomas Das Neves, replacing Frederic Leclerq, Pierre
Emmanuel Pelisson, and Maxence Pilo, respectively. For more, check out
http://www.heavenly.fr.st/ .

-Helix main man Brian Vollmer has posted four more chapters of his
autobiography _Gimme An "R!"_ at the Helix site, at these URLs:
http://www.planethelix.com/Chapter3.htm ,
http://www.planethelix.com/Chapter4.htm ,
http://www.planethelix.com/Chapter5.htm , and
http://www.planethelix.com/Chapter6.htm . See
http://www.planethelix.com/ for more.

-Inside Metal, http://www.InsideMetal.net/ , is a new "Metal /
Hardcore / Punk Webzine" featuring reviews, interviews, giveaways,
features, links, news, etc., that will be updated daily. Check out the
site or contact inside_metal@... for more.

-Jag Panzer's CASTING THE STONES is out now on Century Media Records
and has reportedly been getting good press. There's an interview with
guitarist Mark Briody in issue #25 of _Unrestrained_, and a very
positive album revie at http://www/Metal-Rules.com/ . See
http://www.jagpanzer.com/ for more.

-Upcoming King's X tour dates:
10/28 - Warehouse, Calgary, AL
10/29 - Starlite Room, Edmonton, AL
10/30 - Riddel Center, Regina, SK
11/1 - Checkered Flag, Appleton, WI
11/3 - Club Soda, Kalamazoo, MI
11/4 - Durty Nellies, Palatine, IL
11/5 - 3rd Street Live, Cedar Rapids, IA
11/6 - The Complex, Fort Wayne, IN
11/8 - Pirate's Cove, Cleveland, OH (w/ Fast Chester)
11/9 - Babylon, Ottawa, ON
11/11 - Magic Bag, Ferndale, MI
11/12 - Top Cat's, Cincinnati, OH
11/13 - Rex Theater, Pittsburgh, PA
11/15 - The Trocadero, Philadelphia, PA
11/16 - Crocodile Rock, Allentown, PA
11/17 - Thunderdome, Baltimore, MD
11/19 - Jester's Pub, Fayetteville, NC

-Lilitu will be opening the November 13 date of the Headbanger's Ball
tour, featuring Cradle Of Filth, Arch Enemy, Himsa, and Bleeding
Through, in Atlanta. The band will have new merchandise available and
will be giving away copies of its latest album, THE DELORES LESION. In
addition, Eric Smith is the band's new bassist, and Jonah Weingarden
(Pyramaze) has been "recruited" to play keyboards.

-BraveWords.com reported former members of Megadeth will team up for a
somewhat unique show November 18 at The Gig in Hollywood, CA. Ohm,
featuring original 'deth guitarist Chris Poland, F5, featuring
original 'deth bassist David Ellefson, and Hangar 18, a "premier
tribute" band that plays material from the albums up to an including
COUNTDOWN TO EXTINCTION, will play at the show. Additionally, Poland,
Ellefson, and a "special surprise guest" -- we're betting it's not
Dave Mustaine -- will join Hangar 18 for one song.

-Century Media will release Nightwish's OVER THE HILLS AND FAR AWAY
EP/single and THE END OF INNOCENCE DVD on November 30, and the FROM
WISHES TO ETERNITY -LIVE- DVD on January 25; this marks the first time
these releases will be available in the US. Additionally, ANGELS FALL
FIRST, OCEANBORN, and WISHMASTER are each being reissued as double
vinyl picture disc sets by Back On Black Records.

-Ozzy Osbourne's upcoming 52-track, four-disc box set will be called
THE PRINCE OF DARKNESS and is due February 8. Reportedly, the first
two discs will feature re-mastered "solo hits" as follows: CD #1 - "I
Don't Know" (live), "Mr. Crowley," "Crazy Train," "Goodbye To Romance"
(live), "Suicide Solution" (live), "Over The Mountain," "Flying High
Again" (live), "You Can't Kill Rock And Roll," "Diary Of A Madman,"
"Bark At The Moon" (live B-side), "Spiders" (B-side), "Rock And Roll
Rebel," "You're No Different," "Dee." CD #2 - "The Ultimate Sin"
(live), "Never Know Why" (live), "Thank God For The Bomb" (live),
"Crazy Babies," "Breaking All The Rules," "I Don't Want To Change The
World" (demo), "Mama, I'm Coming Home" (demo), "Desire" (demo), "No
More Tears" (single version), "Won't Be Coming Home" (demo), "Perry
Mason" (live from OZZfest live album), "See You On The Other Side"
(demo), "Walk On Water" (demo), "Gets Me Through" (live), "Bang Bang"
(original demo for "Facing Hell"), "Dreamer." The third disc, ODDITIES
AND DUETS, will feature collaborations between Ozzy and other artists:
"Iron Man" (w/ Therapy?), "N.I.B." (w/ Primus), "Purple Haze" (w/ Zakk
Wylde, Randy Castillo, and Geezer Butler), "Pictures Of Matchstick
Men" (w/ Type O Negative), "Shake Your Head (Let's Go To Bed)" (w/ Was
(Not Was)), "Born To Be Wild" (w/ Miss Piggy), "Nowhere To Run (Vapor
Trail)" (w/ Crystal Method, DMX, Ol' Dirty Bastard, and Fuzzbuble),
"Led Clones" (w/ Gary Moore), "For Heavens Sake" (w/ Tony Iommi and
Wu-Tang Clan), "I Ain't No Nice Guy" (w/ Motorhead), "Therapy" (w/
Infectious Grooves), "Stayin' Alive" (w/ Dweezil Zappa). The fourth
disc, UNDER COVERS, will feature cover songs: "Good Times" (Eric
Burdon), "21st Century Schizoid Man" (King Crimson), "In My Life"
(Beatles), "Mississippi Queen" (Mountain), "For What It's Worth"
(Buffalo Springfield), "Fire" (Arthur Brown), "Hi Ho Silver Lining"
(Jeff Beck Group), "All The Young Dudes" (Mott The Hoople), "Sympathy
For The Devil" (Rolling Stones), "Changes" (w/ Kelly Osbourne) (Black
Sabbath).

-Joe Perry (Aerosmith) is reportedly set to release a solo album in
April, and live dates to support it are possible.

-Pretty Boy Floyd has reformed with original singer Steve "Sex"
Summers now joined by guitarist Macy Malone, bassist Eddie Electra,
and drummer Traci Michaelz. See http://www.myspace.com/pbfband/ for
more.

-Gene Simmons (Kiss) is working on a six-episode TV show called "Rock
School," where, according to his site GeneSimmons.com, "I'll fly over
to the UK where I'll be teaching 12 year olds in their schools how to
form a rock band. We will show the auditions for the band, putting
individuals into a group together, showing them how to rock and
actually writing a song." So far the show is only slated to air in the
UK. No word on whether or not Jack Black will guest star. :)

-Sonata Arctica's newie, RECKONING NIGHT, entered the Finnish charts
at #2, Norwegian at #69, German at #77, and Swiss at #85.

-Tad Morose guitarist Christer "Krunt" Andersson has posted a lengthy
report on the band's appearances in New York City and at ProgPower USA
V online at http://www.centurymedia.com/index2.htm . The ProgPower
show could be released on DVD next year, and the band has a new
animated video for "Anubis" that will be shown on European TV as well
as included on the upcoming VISUAL REBELLION 2 DVD, due November 15
from Century Media. (The compilation will also feature clips from
Lacuna Coil, Dream Evil, Nevermore, and Nocturnal Rites.) See
http://www.tadmorose.com/ for more.

-TotalRock.com reported Thunder will perform a special Christmas show
on December 22 at Rock City in Nottingham, UK. The show will feature a
"semi-acoustic experience," special guests, and "different versions of
both old and new songs, as well as some interesting covers."
Additionally, ticket-buyers will receive a live CD containing
highlights of the show. See http://www.thunderonline.com/ for more.

-U.D.O. has a new fan forum at it's official Web site. Check it out at
http://udoonline.proboards37.com/ .

-TotalRock.com announced Velvet Revolver will tour the UK in January
as follows:
1/14 - SECC, Glasgow, UK
1/15 - Arena, Newcastle, UK
1/16 - Evening News Arena, Manchester, UK
1/18 - NIA, Birmingham, UK
1/19 - International Arena, Cardiff, UK
1/21 - Carling Brixton Academy, London, UK
1/22 & 1/23 - Hammersmith Apollo, London, UK

-Vixen's s/t debut (1988) and REV IT UP (1990) will be reissued by EMI
on November 16 and November 2, respectively.

-Whitesnake filmed a show last week at London's Hammersmith Apollo. It
will be released on DVD next year.

-The Wildhearts are planning to film a December show in London for an
upcoming live DVD release.

Thanks to Michelle Ferraro, Jacob DePolitte, and Sam Humphreys for
help gathering some of this information.

*
*** FLAMES FROM THE LAKE ***
*
by Sean P. Gahgan (lof@...)

-Well how about this... Remember earlier in the year we ran a little
poll and you all voted on what bands you would most like to see play
at the first ever Detritus Festival (Detritus #263 - Week of March 29,
2004)? There was a tremendous response to this poll and for those of
you who don't remember there were three overwhelming favorites who
garnered the most votes. Here is the list if you don't remember (the
last three where the overwhelming favorites):

POISONBLACK
PRETTY MAIDS
PINK CREAM 69
ANGEL DUST
LOST HORIZON
EVERGREY

So I'm thinking about ProgPower USA VI... We all know that Evergrey is
Glenn Harveston's favorite band and since they didn't play at
ProgPower USA V I would bet that they headline one of the nights of
VI, so there is one... Next I heard straight from Bernd Aufermann (
http://www.bernd-aufermann.de/ ) the following:

"ANGEL DUST:

"YUP, we are back together again. Line up is Dirk Thurisch, (VOC),
Steven Banx (keys), Dirk (Assy) Assmuth (Drums). Bass player (T.B.A.)

"We wrote 3 songs so far and have lots of ideas. Looks like we'll
release a very special bonus CD incl. unreleased stuff plus old (very
old) material plus 2-3 new tracks.

"A new CD will be out in 2005!!! Looking forward, rehearsals are
great, we have lots of fun and enjoy ourselves.

"We got a lot of offers to play and we'll be checking out stuff/offers
these days. Best offer was to play a US reunion show at the US PROG
POWER Festival in Atlanta....."

That is awesome news as Angel Dust kicks major ass!!!! So that would
be two bands from our list! And I don't think Lost Horizon is that far
away from becoming a reality! Keep your fingers crossed and I'll keep
you posted! I am almost complete transcribing the Jon Oliva interview
that Neal and I did at ProgPower USA V, so expect it in a week. ;-)

-Lyric of the Week: "Starbucks pisses me off, five bucks a cup, what
the f#$k is up?!?!" -- C.C.

-Song of the Week: "Afraid To Die" by Tad Morose (I can't stop
listening to this song!!!!!)

-Playing in the Lake of Fire this week: WORLDS APART by Silent Force,
LIONHEART by Saxon, SHADOWS FADE by Shadows Fade (featuring Kevin
Chalfant), and EPICA by Kamelot.

*
*** REALM OF SHRED ***
*
by Neal Woodall (MysticX10@...)

-It's been awhile since I've posted a Realm of Shred column so here
are some thoughts...

-I've read several really good books relating to metal and hard rock
lately. Ian Christe's _Sound Of The Beast: The Complete Headbanging
History Of Heavy Metal_ is a great way to reminisce about the glory
days of metal and/or learn some things you didn't know about the
genre. I've noticed a lot of bickering on lists lately about who
"invented" heavy metal; it's a pretty stupid argument but one that
seems to always stimulate discussion. Personally I don't think anyone
invented it, it developed as a result of input from a bunch of bands
and musicians. Everyone from The Beatles, The Kinks, Jimi Hendrix,
Cream, Blue Cheer, Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, The Who and many
others had an influence, although Sabbath could probably be properly
called the first prototypical metal band. It really depends on how you
define it I guess, and I've read comments from youngsters who don't
feel Sabbath is metal! Anyway, Christe's book goes into a good bit of
detail on the origins of metal and although he specifically identifies
Sabbath as metal's originators, he also gives credit to other bands
for their contributions. I really couldn't put it down, as it's a
fascinating look at the evolution of the art form, with great
anecdotes and interesting "top 10" type lists exemplifying the
defining bands and recordings of each era, along with detailed
descriptions of each metal style, from traditional to NWOBHM, thrash
to power, punk, grindcore, glam and all points in between. A must-read
for every headbanger.

-Next is Martin Popoff's latest book _Contents Under Pressure: 30
Years Of Rush At Home And Away_, and this is another very cool look at
my overall favorite band. Starting with a brief history of the early
days, Martin takes us through the process of recording each album,
from the s/t all the way to RUSH IN RIO and the 30th Anniversary Tour.
This one is authorized by the band and includes Alex, Geddy and Neil
reminiscing and relating fascinating stories about each period of
Rush's lengthy career. The book also features some great
never-before-seen pictures from the achieves -- awesome stuff. Highly
recommended for every Rush fan.

-Next on my list of books to get include the new Thin Lizzy and Blue
Oyster Cult biographies.

-In other news, I ran into a few cool Web sites you may want to check
into; the first is an excellent Criss Oliva tribute page with some
good information about the Savatage legend. Go here:
http://www.crissoliva.net/ .

Featuring great profiles of some of the heavy hitters of the '70s and
'80s, http://www.dinosaurrockguitar.com/ provides insight into the
influences, techniques, equipment and style of dozens of killer
guitarists.

If you have tons of time on your hands and want to check out some
obscure prog/death/neoclassical/shred bands go to
http://www.metal-archives.com/browseG.php?g=orchestral , as there's
over 400 of them here, many of which I've never heard of...

-Anyone read the latest issue of _GuitarOne_ magazine? It's a
hair-metal special with Motley Crue on the cover and a big article on
the "rebirth" of hair metal via The Darkness. The article was
interesting but I could have done without Joe Elliot's
self-congratulatory remarks: in essence he asserts that because Def
Leppard sold more albums than many of their contemporaries, their
music was inherently better than on other releases. Bullshit. Hundreds
of albums released during the era of PYROMANIA were at least as good
and in many cases much better... Don't get me started. :)

-With that brief rant over, I'll finish by revealing my current "dream
concert" actually scheduled to take place November 13 in San Antonio,
Texas (this place gets all the good shows!). Check it out:

UFO
Keith Emerson
Tesla
Scorpions

Now would that be a badass show or what? Hope UFO tours with them if
and when they get to Atlanta!

-On the playlist recently: Saxon: LIONHEART, Megadeth: THE SYSTEM HAS
FAILED, Metal Church: THE WEIGHT OF THE WORLD, Chris Caffery: FACES,
Arch Enemy: ANTHEMS OF REBELLION, John Norum: SLIPPED INTO TOMORROW.
Vintage Pick: 220 Volt: ELECTRIC MESSENGERS.

-Happy Halloween!

*
*** REVIEWS ***
*
BALTIMOORE - ULTIMATE TRIBUTE (B/B-) Lion Music, 2003
12 tracks, RT: 55:32
[ http://www.lionmusic.com/ ]
Well now, that's a bold title isn't it? ULTIMATE TRIBUTE is another in
the recent spate of albums -- L.A. Guns, George Lynch, Kevin DuBrow,
Valensia, etc. -- featuring one band or artist covering a myriad of
"classic rock" tracks. Here's what's on display: "Kill The King"
(Rainbow), "Rock Candy" (Montrose), "Beggars Day" (Nils Lofgren),
"Never Say Die" (Black Sabbath), "Samurai" (MSG), "Freedom" (Jimi
Hendrix), "She" (Kiss), "Love Child" (Deep Purple), "Mississippi
Queen" (Mountain), "Solid Gold Brass" (Sweet), "Riff Raff" (AC/DC),
and "The Rocker" (Thin Lizzy). Yep, there are a few standards in there
(I really don't need to hear another version of "Kill The King" or
"Mississippi Queen" ever again...) but also a few oddballs, at least
to these ears. I was pleasantly surprised by the Graham Bonnet-era MSG
track "Samurai" -- man, that sweeping opening riff is just so pretty!
-- and the closing duo of "Riff Raff" and "The Rocker" just flat-out
fun rock 'n' roll. Other highlights: the bouncy duo of "Never Say Die"
and "Beggars Day." Everything is played well and singer Bjorn Lodin
contributes his trademark, scruffy, weirdly feline vocal stylings.
Chincy booklet though. - Tim

BLEED (B) indie, 2004
4 tracks, RT: 13:58
[ http://www.bleedrocks.com/ ]
[ http://www.robinmcauley.com/ ]
[ http://www.totalguitar.net/ ]
Remember the first time you heard "Unholy" and thought, "Wow, Kiss
really got heavy, didn't they?" That's nothing compared to what former
Grand Prix and McAuley-Schenker Group vocalist Robin McAuley has done
here with Bleed! He's teamed up with lead guitarist Dave Bates, rhythm
guitarist Bob Pace, bassist Bjorn Englen, and drummer Craig Anderson
to form a powerful new band that successfully blends elements of
classic melodic rock and hard-hitting modern commercial metal. Want a
ratio? Call it 30% of the former and 70% of the latter, for starters.
Bates and Pace sludge out some heavy drop-tuned riffs while Anderson
pounds and pounds away, and McAuley gets downright angry with his
singing. (If you only remember him from the MSG balladeer days of
"Anytime," you're in for quite a shock here!) But...the tunes also
sport real live guitar solos -- some of 'em quite fiery, which as we
all know is a rarity these days -- and McAuley thankfully still sounds
like himself, rather than bury his golden throat in a pile of cliched
vocal effects. "Falling Down" starts off with a thick, fat 'n' heavy
guitar riff and industrial metallic pounding drum sounds, and features
doubled lead vocals, cool Zakk Wylde riffage and harmonics in its
chorus, and a dark but driving beat. "Thrown It All Away" is mostly
drop-tuned and heavy but also has a little filler riff that kinda
nicks Queensryche's "Last Time In Paris"; here McAuley combines angry
vocals in the pre-chorus with more melodic bits in the chorus. "Tail
Of The Gun" has a fairly moshy, choppy riff, more drop-tuned heavy
guitars, and goes the Staind/Disturbed/Ra/insert-name-of-band-with-a-
bald-singer-here route by starting with whispered vocals before really
opening up. Closer "We Breathe" mixes the melodic with the heavy and
turns into somewhat of an anthem, and Bates' sizzling licks towards
the end are awesome. It'll be quite interesting to hear a full album
from these guys. - Tim

CHRIS CAFFERY - FACES (B) Black Lotus Records, 2004
16 tracks, RT: 76:16
[ http://www.chriscaffery.com/ ]
[ http://www.savatage.com/ ]
[ http://www.black-lotus-recs.com/ ]
I have been a fan of Chris' ever since he joined the Savatage family
back in 1988. I have always admired how much he respected Criss Oliva
and played his solos note for note live, and now over time, he has
become a guitar hero himself, and this is quite apparent after hearing
this new release. Chris gave me a promo copy of FACES/GOD DAMN WAR
when we got together in Atlanta during ProgPower V and I have been
listening to it ever since. There are 16 songs on this version of
FACES and another nine on GOD DAMN WAR so needless to say, there is a
lot of music here. I wanted to give it the time it deserved as opposed
to listening to it for a week and just giving my initial impression.
Since talking to Chris in great detail about this debut effort and
hearing how his life and experiences up to this point are well
represented on FACES, I really wanted to give it time to sink in. So,
with that said, this review will focus on FACES which is a diverse
collection of songs that are all tied together by Chris' versatile
guitar style and in places, surprising vocal performance. I had never
hear Chris sing lead before and after hearing him rip on "Edge Of
Thorns" and "Power Of The Night" at ProgPower, I was even more
intrigued to hear the full-blown vocal performance that awaited me on
FACES. The CD starts out with a short intro piece titled "Alas." The
rhythm is very reminiscent of Savatage, with a very cool military type
snare march to it as Chris recites a speech as likened to a commander
speaking to his army. In its very short time it quickly teases at the
angry, comical, distraught, and uplifting roller coaster ride on which
the listener is about to embark. So please remain seated and enjoy the
ride. Fast and furious the mood explodes as the up-tempo "Faces" jumps
out of speakers. There is a very cool solo that rips in the
midsection. One thing Chris has always done well is write rhythmic
solos -- leads that follow the rhythm and flow of the song -- and then
he just breaks out and goes nuts. This is a great opening song. For
being Chris' first effort and singing all of the lead vocals, he does
a fine job. Knowing that he has only been attempting the lead vocals
for a short time before recording FACES, he does quite a remarkable
job, and I can only see him improving as he builds his vocal chords
and strengthens his technique. I hold true to my comparison I made at
ProgPower: Chris sounds like a slightly less powerful Zak Stevens
crossed with Jon Oliva (imagine that!). He sounds best when he stays
in his comfort zone. There are times it seems that he tries too hard
and hits notes out of his range but he keeps those to a minimum. "Fade
Into The X" is next and is another up-tempo song that actually reminds
me of something that could have come off of Savatage's POWER OF THE
NIGHT. Track #4 is my favorite on the CD. I can't tell you how many
people I have played this song for over the past four weeks. "Pisses
Me Off" is a song we can all relate to. The lyrics are very creative
and run through so many elements in our lives that irritate us
("Starbucks pisses me off, five bucks a cup, what the F#$k is up...").
The song is driven by a heavy guitar groove and is a great song to put
in when you are having a bad day. "Remember" is next and starts out
with just vocal and some guitar before kicking in to a heavy mid-tempo
beat. This song has a catchy chorus but I didn't particularly care for
the sound of Chris' voice on it. On "The Fall" Jon Oliva's influence
over the years is evident as the vocals sound a lot like the Mountain
King. Chris sounds very angry on this song, but it actually sounds
good and emotionally charged. "Music Man" was an excellent change of
pace at this point in the CD. Accompanied by some thick acoustic
guitars Chris's finest vocal performance is here. The melody of his
vocal harmonies on this song seems so natural and the layers and
layers of voices make for a lush background. This is a well
constructed song with a great midsection with a cool gutsy vocal
bridge...easily my second favorite song on here. The acoustic guitar
solos sound so great my only complaint is they should have been
longer. "Life, Crazy Life!!!" kicks things back up a notch. This song
has more of a heavy classic rock sound to it as opposed to the more
progressive styling of the earlier songs. Some cool vocal harmonies
are used in this song as well. The groovy midsection is cool and his
whiny guitar sound breaks in every so often. "The Mold," which is the
first single off the CD, is next. Chris outdid himself on the lyrics
for this song. The creativity and construction of the words are
fabulous and never sound forced. The rhythm is just insane on this
song yet it never detracts from the melody of the vocals. It's another
highlight of the CD with a very cool, albeit too short, solo at the
end. "Bag O'Bones" arrives at just the right time and sees Chris
revisit the acoustic guitar. Another cool set of lyrics and play on
words in the bridge. The words, a la Forest Gump, "Mama always said,
Evil is as Evil Does" start out the next song entitled "Evil Is As
Evil Does." I thought this was going to be a corny song but again
Chris' knack for constructing tongue-in-cheek lyrics takes a goofy
topic and puts power and meaning behind it. Also, there is a great
solo in this song. "Never" reminds me of something off of HANDFUL OF
RAIN. This is one of Chris' finer moments as a vocalist on the CD. His
singing and guitar playing are outstanding on this one very emotional
performance. "So Far Today" is the thirteenth song and starts out with
a slow beat and heavy delayed guitar with a separate guitar playing
the melody over it. This is a slow plodding song with vocals very
reminiscent of a Savatage song. The guitar solo is cool and leverages
the delay and main riff to build on. "Jealousy" is next and starts out
as a slower bluesy number with the vocals really paying tribute to Jon
Oliva. After 90 seconds the tempo kicks it up a notch and fills us in
on a nasty world called "Jealousy." Again, this is where Chris is at
his best, sarcastic lyrics that will make you smile but at the same
time you realize how true what he's saying is. Chris just jams all
over this song. The CD ends with "Preludio" and "Abandoned" which sort
of go together. The first is a moody, building guitar instrumental
piece with just guitar and some keyboards for texture, something
similar to what would be played live for a guitar solo. There are some
really cool parts to it. A little more than halfway through the drums
kick in and the guitar joins to form a galloping beat and the intro to
"Abandon" begins. Where "Preludio" ends "Abandoned" kicks in full and
heavy. The pre-chorus is light and airy, with layered vocals and a
beautiful piano flowing in the background but this is short-lived as
the desperation hits hard and heavy on the chorus. Halfway through the
song the vocals break into a cool counterpoint section that adds to
the emotion and lyrical depth of the song. As this song ends you are
left emotionally drained as the music has just ripped it all out of
you. Please remain seated until the ride comes to a complete stop.
Well...that was one hell of a roller coaster ride. FACES is just that,
all of the different faces of Chris Caffery with plenty of heavy
guitar and emotionally charged lyrics. This is one of the best selling
points of this CD: all of the lyrics on FACES are so well thought out
and there is definitely no filler here. Chris has a knack for writing
intelligent, meaningful words while injecting humor and realism. The
mix is good but the over sound is not as "in your face" as I would
like. The production doesn't match the intensity of the songs and thus
is my only complaint (the only thing holding it back from a better
grade). If you are a Savatage fan, I believe you will like this. For
the in-betweener, it will come down to whether you like Chris' vocal
performance or not. His guitar playing is fabulous and there is
absolutely no doubt that he can write some great songs. I am excited
for him because I know he has so much more music inside of him and now
with this first CD complete, we can only anticipate more...much more I
hope! - Sean P. Gahgan (lof@...)

KICK AXE - KICK AXE IV (B/B-) Song Haus, 2004
14 tracks, RT: 59:45
[ http://www.kickaxe.net/ ]
[ http://www.songhausmusic.com/ ]
This one's a tough nut to crack. I've been sitting on it for weeks,
giving it tons of spins, waiting for something to "click" in my head
for the review. I really wanted to like this comeback album a ton, but
overall I'm left with a shrug and a "Yup, they're back." Kick Axe was
a Canadian hard rock band that released three good albums between 1984
and 1987, and contributed two tracks (under the more kid-friendly
moniker Spectre General) to the 1986 "Transformers" movie soundtrack.
If you remember the band from back then you probably recall the
anthemic "On The Road To Rock" and "Heavy Metal Shuffle" as its
trademarks. Well, the short of it is nothing on KICK AXE IV is as cool
as those songs... On the up side, 80% of the '80s glory days lineup is
back -- guitarists Larry Gillstrom and Raymond Harvey, bassist Victor
Langen, and drummer Brian Gillstrom -- and "new" vocalist Gary Langen
actually was in the band before its George Criston-fronted heyday.
And, coolly, Gary Langen sounds like Criston mixed slightly with
Tesla's Jeff Keith and the Good Rats' Peppi Marchello. So the
consistency from the "old days" is there, all five band members shared
the song writing duties, the haunting guitar tones are intact, and the
harmony and background vocals are as strong as ever. So why not an "A"
grade then? I just feel there's a definite lack of energy on the
album. Despite the name Kick Axe was never really a party-hearty cock
rock band, but the guys would, ahem, kick it pretty well on the old
albums. Here there are only a handful of tunes that would qualify as
"up-tempo," namely "Do You Know," "Who Says," and "Rock N Roll Dog"
(the first of which doesn't surface until track #5!), and I suppose
"City Lights" gets a nod because it starts out jamming and winds up
resembling a Y&T cooker in places. The rest of the 14 songs are
content to remain more laidback and atmospheric. There is some
lumbering Led Zeppelin heft (the eerie closer "The Only Ones Here"),
some Eastern-tinged darkness (the trippy, modern Queensryche-ish "Slip
Inside My Dream"), and some plain ol' stomp ("Turn To Stone"), plus a
couple ballads ("Consolation," "Black Heart"). A few lighter moments
include "Rockin' Daze," with a splash of fun Van Halen guitar
noodlings and interesting lyrics, "Who Knows Ya," with an easy,
jangly, D.A.D-like country vibe, and "Woe," which despite its title
has a rather "up" flair. I don't mean to bag on the album -- the
writing and playing are tight, the production is spot-on and thick and
dreamy, and there are *tons* of cool "headphone parts" you need to
hear -- but I was just hoping for a little more pizzazz. I guess my
expectations were too high? Hopefully the guy are back for the long
haul and we'll hear even more and better output in the future. - Tim

SAXON - LIONHEART (A) Steamhammer/SPV, 2004
11 tracks, RT: 45:07
[ http://www.saxon747.com/ ]
[ http://www.spv.de/ ]
Saxon kicks ass. That's about all I need to write in this review but
I'll go into a bit more detail for those who are unfamiliar with the
band. Saxon come to us from a long way back in time, somewhere close
to 1979 when they first assembled as frontrunners of the burgeoning
New Wave Of British Heavy Metal movement. One of the most reliable of
bands from that era, anyone who has seen Saxon live can attest to
their quality and power. Now 16 full albums later they deliver
LIONHEART, a stunning platter of traditional metal sure to please
longtime fans and curious newcomers. No bullshit here, just concise
and perfectly executed music designed exclusively for head-banging.
Crank up opener "Witchfinder General" for a taste of what you are in
store for, crushing guitars knocking you into the weeds immediately as
vocalist Biff Byford spits sinister lyrics. Sure, you've heard the
riffs from "To Live By The Sword" and "English Man'O'War" before, but
damned if these boys don't make them fresh and exciting again! The
title track alone is worth snagging this disc for, straight out of '85
with great melodies and dynamics. Elsewhere you have the excellent
"Man And Machine" and "Beyond The Grave" with riffs and choruses that
just kill. Another highlight is "Searching For Atlantis," the kind of
atmospheric rocker that Saxon do so well. The mix is fantastic with
every instrument exploding through loud and clear, Biff's unique and
expressive vocals as good (or better) than I've ever heard them. New
drummer Jorg Michael (Stratovarius) turns in a powerful performance as
you might expect -- he really fits the band perfectly -- while
guitarists Paul Quinn and Doug Scarratt blast perfect rhythms and
screaming solos over Nibbs Carter's skillful but solid bass
foundations. If you are a Saxon fan you should already have this;
those who missed the NWOBHM the first time around can crank this up as
the next best thing to being transported back in time -- it's that
good. Hoist ye draft and savor authentic British metal! - Neal Woodall
(MysticX10@...)

VARIOUS - THE SPIRIT LIVES ON: THE MUSIC OF JIMI HENDRIX REVISITED
VOLUME 2 (C) Lion Music, 2004
10 tracks, RT: 40:01
[ http://www.lionmusic.com/ ]
[ http://www.jimi-hendrix.com/ ]
[ http://www.guitar9.com/ ]
I really enjoyed several of the tracks off VOLUME 1 from this set but
had reservations about the vocals, and I hoped that VOLUME 2 would
mirror the excellent follow-up to the first Shawn Lane tribute and put
the emphasis more on exciting virtuoso guitar playing. Unfortunately
VOLUME 2 has fallen into the same trap as VOLUME 1, with the vocals
dragging down some otherwise fine performances. The CD starts off
strong with Lars Eric Mattsson and Chris Poland blasting through "Room
Full Of Mirrors," a cool opener that sets the tone for the rest of the
disc. Winterlong follow with their version of "Purple Haze," and while
it's not bad I could certainly have done without the vocals attempting
to imitate the main guitar riff as this sounds more like someone
making fun of Hendrix rather than honoring him -- I'm sure it was done
humorously but sounds out-of-place and campy here. Torben Enevoldsen
does a nice version of "Who Knows" although it runs a little too long
for the type of song it is. If you really want a quick taste of what
I'm talking about when I criticize the vocals check out Tony
Hernando's version of "Red House;" the guitar work is great but the
singing is just...strange! Favorite track has to be "Them Changes" by
Tommy Denander -- really good production and ripping guitar work on
this one -- with Condition Red's very atmospheric "Villanova Junction"
a close second. Baltimoore finishes things off with the tasty licks of
"Freedom," another track with well-played guitar but average vocals. I
don't think VOLUME 2 is quite as good as VOLUME 1 but if you liked the
first disc you will want to put this one in your collection as well.
It's hard to maintain consistent excitement on tribute albums and this
one has its flaws, but with the combination of both discs Lion has
done a commendable job of paying respects to a rock legend. - Neal
Woodall (MysticX10@...)

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*** OUT ***
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