Detritus
Issue #352
Week of February 20, 2006
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*** CAST OF CHARACTERS ***
*
Patrick Brower, Editor
patrickbrower@...
Sean P. Gahgan, Editor
lof@...
Tim Wadzinski, Owner
tsw512@...
Steve Shumake, Co-owner
vongoober@...
http://www.vongoober.com/
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*** LET IT BE KNOWN ***
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-Yes we're late but I barely had time to work on the issue this week.
We should all be caught up now from our hiatus; some of the content
here is from our "time off" but next week will be all fresh 'n' new
just for you. - Tim
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*** PRESS RELEASE #1 ***
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-Lion Music February 2006 Release Information
All releases are out on February 27th 2006.
Hubi Meisel – KAILASH
LMC165 EAN6419922001653
With a production time of more than two years, German singer and
producer Hubi Meisel presents his new album KAILASH, the long-awaited
follow-up to his previous concept disc EMOCEAN (2004 Lion Music,
Avalon/Marquee). The album is presented in a stunning Special Edition
Digipack with two Bonus Tracks and 16 page full colour booklet!
This time the concept story is all about the Himalayas, Tibet and
ancient Buddhist/Hindu mythology, and it describes a man's adventurous
journey across the icy heights of the Himalayas up to the legendary
holy Mt. Kailash, where an important secret is finally unveiled...
KAILASH is a multifaceted Progressive/Melodic Metal album, enriched
with symphonic and Far Eastern elements and loaded with excellent
musicianship. This album presents a blend of many musical styles and
has a completely unique approach, which makes it stand out from other
releases of this genre.
KAILASH is presented in a stunning Special Edition Digipack with two
Bonus Tracks and 16 page full colour booklet!
Backing up Hubi Meisel's killer vocals on KAILASH is a first class
assembly of musicians: Vivien Lalu (Lalu) on keyboards (who was also
responsible for composing the instrumental music according to Meisel's
concept and directions), Marcel Coenen (Sun Caged) and Jorge Salán
(Mago De Oz) on guitars powered along by the stunning rhythm section
of Daniel Flores (Mind's Eye) on drums alongside Johan Niemann
(Therion) on bass. KAILASH has the musical punch to match its bold
story line.
TRACK LISTING
[01] Potala Palace [04:53]
[02] Red Oracle [04:21]
[03] Snow Lion [04:56]
[04] Himalayan Sunset [05:19]
[05] Shiva's Dance [04:02]
[06] Kailash - Jewel Of Ice [05:25]
[07] Wheel Of Life [10:27]
[08] Milarepa's Cave Of Miracles [04:40]
[09] Merdeka [03:42]
[10] The Great Prayer (Monlam Chenmo) [05:14]
BONUS TRACKS:
[11] The Gentleman Of Great Magic [05:30]
[12] Tigers Of Everest [04:10]
CREDITS
Mixed & produced by Hubi Meisel.
Concept by Hubi Meisel
Music by Vivien Lalu
Co-arranged by Hubi Meisel
Lyrics & vocal melodies by Hubi Meisel
Mastered by C. Stickel at MSM Munich
OFFICIAL WEB SITE:
http://www.hubimeisel.com/
Section A - PARALLEL LIVES
LMC166 EAN: 6419922001660
Section A return with their second album, the conceptual PARALLEL
LIVES. The album is the follow-up to the acclaimed debut, THE SEVENTH
SIGN (2003 Lion Music) and sees the band establish a trademark sound
and deliver a killer album with their own unique brand of melodic
progressive metal.
Section A are led by the vocal talents of Andy Engberg, the virtuoso
guitar work of Torben Enevoldsen and new drummer Johan Koleberg (ex-
Lion's Share) who replaced Andreas Lill (Vanden Plas). Bass duties
were performed by the albums engineer Pontus Egberg (ex-Lion's Share)
in a guest role. The album also features appearances by Mats Olausson
(ex-Yngwie Malmsteen), Lotta Malmström, Elizabeth Kirwan and Ulf
"Uffe" Pettersson.
From the start of writing the band decided to do a concept album.
Conny Welén had an idea for the story from the beginning, so that part
was in place pretty quickly and was built upon with Andy Engberg.
Torben Enevoldsen wrote all the music for the album as usual, but
didn't present the new material for the other guys before he felt that
everything was as it should be, i.e., a completed album musically.
Andy and Conny received all the new songs from Torben just before
Christmas of 2003 and they then started working on the story and the
actual lyrics. In April of 2004, the drums were recorded in Stockholm.
Pontus Egberg did all the engineering and our new drummer, Johan
Koleberg, delivers a stunning performance. The band's engineer, Pontus
Egberg, liked the music so much that he offered to do the bass for the
entire album. The guys accepted stating "It was a true pleasure having
him aboard." Torben felt that music required a few keyboard solos for
this album, so he asked Mats Olausson to participate. He accepted and
since he was staying with his mother in Sweden at the time, it all
came together very fast and without any complications. (He lives in
Thailand).
Torben received all the vocals and the completed story in April of
2005. Already quite a bit behind schedule, the plan was to mix and
master the album right away. Enevoldsen went to Torben Lysholm's
studio, Tune Town, at the end of April to start mixing PARALLEL LIVES.
Unfortunately, this initial mix wasn't really good enough, so the band
started all over again... The final mix and mastering was completed by
September and the band were now all extremely happy with the final
result indeed feeling it does the music and storyline justice. On the
performances of drummer Johan Koleberg and guest bassist Pontus Egberg
Torben states, "Johan approaches the drumming quite differently from
Andreas, which in my opinion makes for a more groovy bottom. Also
adding an actual bass player to the line-up helped matters quite a bit
in that department."
On the album Torben Enevoldsen comments, "This album differs to our
first in many ways. I personally learned a lot from making THE SEVENTH
SIGN and I think that that is particularly audible in the way these
new songs have been written and arranged. Lyrically, this new album is
a concept piece based around the story of William, a guy, who by
unknown forces gets the gift to travel between parallel universes --
yet he is unable to control this travelling. This happens once he
falls asleep, whilst he's away from one universe time stands still. At
first he believes it's all just a terrifying dream but he soon learns
that dream is in fact reality." The storyline expands on this premise
and travels through a few different twists and turns (for more info
see the Lion Music Web site) all of which are reflected by the music
as well.
PARALLEL LIVES is an exciting progressive metal experience that is set
to put Section A in the upper echelon of the genre.
SECTION A ARE:
Andy Engberg [Vocals]
Torben Enevoldsen [Guitars and keyboards]
Johan Koleberg [Drums]
Mats Olausson [Keyboard solos (special guest)]
CREDITS:
Torben Enevoldsen - music.
Andy Engberg and Conny Welén - lyrics and story. Torben Enevoldsen
produced the album and recorded all the guitars and keyboards in his
own studio The Lab, Bass and Drums recorded in Stockholm and
engineered by Pontus Egberg, Vocals recorded by Conny Welén at his
studio in Stockholm.
Torben Lysholm mixed and mastered the album at Tune Town in Denmark.
TRACK LISTING:
[01] Hunted
[02] The Gift
[03] Awakening
[04] Dark Alliance
[05] Moment Of Truth
[06] Hoping For A Miracle
[07] Changing The Past
[08] Beginning Of The End
Tears Of Anger - IN THE SHADOWS
LMC169 EAN:6419922001691
Tears Of Anger are back with their brand new studio album IN THE
SHADOWS which sees the band fine tuning the trademark sound they first
exhibited on STILL ALIVE.
Led by brothers Benny and Björn Jansson on guitars and vocals
respectively, the band also feature the dynamite rhythm section of
Daniel Flores (Mind's Eye) on drums and Johan Niemann (Mind's Eye /
Therion) on bass.
With IN THE SHADOWS the band have excelled themselves displaying even
stronger song writing then their debut (STILL ALIVE) and a super
powerful production. Lead singer Bjorn Jansson comments, "I think
we're all much more satisfied with the songs and our contribution on
this record, we took our time and did not rush anything, the final
result was what mattered," and it's this final result which is sure to
please fans from the band's debut as well as brining a new army of
fans onboard.
IN THE SHADOWS is home to 12 songs that mix melodic, progressive and
pure metal like you have never heard before.
ALBUM CREDITS
Produced, engineered and mixed by Benny Jansson in Cheep Valley studio
and Zinkens studio.
Vocal recorded by Björn in Backbone studio.
TRACK LISTING:
[01] In The Shadows
[02] Spirit Running Free
[03] Tears In My Eyes
[04] I Hate You
[05] Sell My Soul
[06] Live These Dreams
[07] Scene Of The Crime
[08] Light Up My Fuse
[09] How Will I Live
[10] Full Of Lies
[11] Close To The Fire
[12] I'm Coming Home
OFFICIAL WEB SITE
http://www.tearsofanger.com/
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*** PRESS RELEASE #2 ***
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-Liquor And Poker Monthly News Shot
- The Hellacopters and Scott Reeder now available!
- Nebula prepares to launch APOLLO on Feb. 21; new MP3 now available
- Backyard Babies' LIVE LIVE IN PARIS due in February
- Fireball Ministry rocks with Disturbed, rolls into Hollywood for
charity benefit
- Crash Kelly reflects on 2005, looks ahead to 2006
- Black Halos wrap up successful West Coast tour, prepare for Europe
- MP3s, videos and merch, oh my!
- Liquor And Poker in your town!
Yes, even Kiefer loves the rawk! And why not? As you'll see, we're
only four weeks into 2006, and there's already plenty of Liquor And
Poker activities to report. Enjoy!
The Hellacopters and Scott Reeder now available!
Last week, Liquor And Poker unveiled its first releases of 2006: ROCK
& ROLL IS DEAD, the new album by Swedish rock heroes The Hellacopters,
and TUNNELVISION BRILLIANCE, the debut solo offering from Scott
Reeder. Both albums are available for purchase at
http://www.cmdistro.com/ .
Having been described as "the best rock band in Sweden" (Alternative
Press) and "the freshest-sounding 'geetar' band around" (Rolling
Stone), The Hellacopters recently celebrated their 10th anniversary.
With six acclaimed studio full-lengths and European tours alongside
household names Kiss, The Rolling Stones and Foo Fighters under their
belts, ROCK & ROLL IS DEAD makes it perfectly clear that the group has
come a long way since its early days as a side project of
then-Entombed drummer Nicke Andersson and Backyard Babies co-founder
Dregen.
Don't be misled by the title: ROCK & ROLL IS DEAD is living proof that
the genre is alive and well -- and that as they begin their second
decade of international conquests, The Hellacopters will continue to
be its heartbeat. The American version of the album is an enhanced CD
including two bonus tracks not found on any other pressing, as well as
bonus music video clips for both "I'm In The Band" and "Everything's
On T.V." Expect an announcement soon regarding the group's plans for
their first US tour in four years.
As a member of two legendary underground bands, Scott Reeder has made
a considerable impact on heavy music. With The Obsessed -- a group
Rolling Stone praises for "almost single-handedly inventing" doom
metal -- and then as bassist for desert rock pioneers Kyuss (whom All
Music Guide dubbed a "heavy metal Velvet Underground...the blueprint
often copied but never quite replicated by countless underground metal
bands"), Reeder helped to lay the groundwork for a revival of organic
and heavy yet musical rock championed to this day by both cult and
mainstream icons alike.
The 13-track TUNNELVISION BRILLIANCE is a solo album in the truest
sense of the word, with all songs written and performed entirely by
Reeder and Reeder alone. In addition, he produced, engineered and
mixed the recording -- mostly in his own studio. It's a much more
personal and intimate soundscape than his thunderously heavy past, an
inspired (and undeniably psychedelic) trip through the subconscious of
one of underground rock's brightest luminaries.
Nebula prepares to launch APOLLO on Feb. 21
Two and a half years after Liquor And Poker Music launched with ATOMIC
RITUAL, the acclaimed third release from L.A. power trio Nebula, we
come full circle with the group's new album APOLLO. Due Feb. 21, the
record is a cosmic cocktail of heavy riffs, electric blues and
psychedelic space rock that demonstrates why the band has earned
international (and, dare we say, universal) acclaim. An MP3 of first
single "Fever Frey" has been posted on Liquor And Poker's Web site and
MySpace page.
Produced by Daniel Rey (Ramones, Misfits, L7) and mastered by Howie
Weinberg (Mars Volta, Sonic Youth, Franz Ferdinand), and recorded
mostly at Hollywood Sound Recorders (Danzig, System Of A Down, Red Hot
Chili Peppers), the 14-track album sees the addition of new bassist
Tom Davies. It also features a bonus live video of new song "Future
Days" recorded during Nebula's Japanese tour last spring. A demo of
another new track, "Lightbringer," is currently available on the new
Century Family/Hot Topic compilation METAL FOR THE MASSES VOLUME FOUR,
as well as Liquor And Poker Music samplers included with the new
releases by labelmates The Thieves and Fireball Ministry.
Formed in 1997 after vocalist/guitarist Eddie Glass and drummer Ruben
Romano left desert rock pioneers Fu Manchu, Nebula released two
acclaimed full-lengths on Sub Pop Records, along with three notable
EPs, prior to signing with Liquor And Poker. During the group's
formative years, they toured with the likes of Nashville Pussy,
Mudhoney, Corrosion Of Conformity and The Hellacopters, among others.
Upon its release in 2003, ATOMIC RITUAL earned mainstream acclaim from
the likes of Blender ("heavier than heaven"), Entertainment Weekly
("If you're jonesing for a fix of heavy rock at its least pretentious,
you can't do much better than this") and Magnet ("more fun than
watching a Hell's Angels pool-cue assault in a biker bar"). True to
form, the band subsequently returned to the road for several
nationwide tours with artists as diverse as Mastodon, The Bellrays,
Local H and Clutch.
Since finishing basic tracks for APOLLO, Nebula has already done one
nationwide tour (including a showcase at the CMJ Music Marathon in New
York City) and performed high-profile hometown gigs at ESPN's X-Games
and the annual Sunset Junction festival, the latter alongside the
likes of New York Dolls, Eagles Of Death Metal and Burning Brides.
Expect an announcement regarding 2006 touring plans in the coming
weeks.
Backyard Babies LIVE LIVE IN PARIS due in February
Having spent the better part of 2005 on tour with Social Distortion in
both Europe and North America, Swedish glam-punks Backyard Babies now
offer up a souvenir of their concert experience, due in stores Feb.
21. LIVE LIVE IN PARIS (no, that's not a typo; it's the verb followed
by the adjective) showcases 15 classics from the catalog of the band
Kerrang! calls the kings of "shit-kicking sleaze." Recorded before a
sold-out French crowd, it provides a memorable snapshot of the booze-
fueled gutter rock that's earned the quartet worldwide acclaim.
Recorded during the Stockholm Syndrome European tour, LIVE LIVE IN
PARIS will be just as cherished by Backyard Babies fans as ticket
stubs and concert T-shirts. For those not as well acquainted with
these Billion Dollar Babies, it's a grade-A slab of Swedish garage
sleaze -- the perfect primer on one of Europe's top rock acts in the
setting in which they were meant to be experienced. (Drinks sold
separately.)
For those scoring at home, 10 of the dozen tracks featured on TINNITUS
were performed live in Paris, including the adrenalin-fueled "Made Me
Madman," the sneering "Highlights" and the anthemic "Minus Celsius."
The remaining five -- most notably the rare non-album track
"Powderhead" -- have never before been released in America. We
challenge you to get any of the 15 out of your head.
Prepare for an ear-ringing, alcohol-fueled,
mirrored-shades-and-mascara riot of over-the-top, trashy punk n' roll.
Viva les Babies!
Fireball Ministry rocks with Disturbed, rolls into Hollywood for
charity benefit
Hot on the heels of their holiday tour with Clutch and a sold-out
Orange County concert alongside Disturbed last weekend, L.A.'s
Fireball Ministry will perform at a hometown fundraiser for local
children's charity A Place Called Home (
http://www.apch.org/ ) Tues.,
Jan. 31 at the Hollywood House Of Blues. Founded in 1993, A Place
Called Home aims to revitalize the community of South Central Los
Angeles and provide at-risk youth with a secure, positive family
environment. Participants learn skills to lead a productive lifestyle
free of the gangs, drugs and the poverty that surrounds them. The
benefit also features performances by Fear Factory and Strung Out.
Tickets are on sale now!
In other Fireball news, new album THEIR ROCK IS NOT OUR ROCK will be
released in Europe next week. It received a 4K review in UK music
bible Kerrang!, while England's Metal Hammer calls it "one of the
first essential albums of 2006...classic American rock n' roll that
rides high into the 21st Century." We couldn't have said it better.
Crash Kelly reflects on 2005, looks ahead to 2006
Toronto glam heroes Crash Kelly -- whose new album, produced by former
Guns N' Roses guitarist Gilby Clarke, will be available this spring --
has posted a "highlight reel of 2005" on the band's Web site,
http://www.crashkelly.ca/ . Included are Guitar Player magazine's
"Guitar Hero" contest, in which front man Sean Kelly was invited to
perform in front of a panel of judges that included Joe Satriani and
Steve Lukather; the band's B.C. Rich guitar advertising campaign; and
their summer tour alongside labelmates Backyard Babies.
The group will be gigging periodically over the next few months, as
the release of their sophomore album draws nearer. Stay tuned for BIG
news regarding spring touring!
Black Halos wrap up successful West Coast tour, prepare for Europe
Vancouver punks The Black Halos have returned home from their three-
week tour of the West Coast and their home province of British
Columbia, which included a sold-out Anaheim concert alongside Social
Distortion. Up next is a 43-show European tour in March and April. For
the complete itinerary, visit
http://www.peoplelikeyou.de/ .
While on tour, the band dropped by Canadian TV channel Razer, where
they guested on a program called "969" (their equivalent of MTV's
"TRL"). Apparently Canadian video channels aren't afraid to play the
group's XXX-citing video for "Three Sheets To The Wind" -- which you
can watch at our MySpace page,
http://www.myspace.com/liquorandpokermusic .
MP3s, videos and merch, oh my!
Speaking of videos, here's the latest and greatest Liquor And Poker
audiovisual ecstasy!
AUDIO
Nebula – "Fever Frey" MP3
http://mp3.centurymedia.com/nebula/apollo/nebula_feverfrey.mp3
Scott Reeder – "The Day Of Neverending" MP3
http://mp3.centurymedia.com/scottreeder/thedayofneverending.mp3
The Hellacopters – "I'm In The Band" MP3
http://www.liquorandpokermusic.com/Hellacopters.mp3
VIDEO
The Black Halos – "Three Sheets To The Wind" video
http://www.shanedrake.com/blackhalos2.mp4
Fireball Ministry – "Sundown" video
http://www.fireballministry.com/video/sundown_large.mov
The Illuminati – "On My Way Back Home...Again" video
http://www.theilluminati.net/video/TheIlluminati_OnMyWay_320x240.mov
The Thieves – "Tales From The White Line" video
http://www.thebandofthieves.com/tales_lo.mov
MERCH
New shirts by Fireball Ministry, The Thieves, Crash Kelly and more
http://www.liquorandpokermusic.com/lpMerch/
http://www.liquorandpokermusic.com/
http://www.myspace.com/liquorandpokermusic
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*** PRESS RELEASE #3 ***
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-Rivera/Bomma & Roxx Productions Press Release!!
Roxx Productions is pleased to announce they have officially signed
two new artists to their business roster.
We would like to officially welcome both Holy Soldier and Rivera/Bomma
to the Roxx community!
Roxx will be officially handling both bands as they embark on what
proves to be a big successful year for both bands!
Holy Soldier are currently putting the finishing touches on their much
anticipated DVD. Holy Soldier - LIVE, RARE AND RAW. The DVD will
include tons of archive stuff for the faithful fans as well as some
newly recorded versions of some classic songs featuring their new
vocalist Don Russell as well as some other classic performances from
some of the other artists that played at the Roxx Productions event Up
From The Ashes, including Neon Cross, Laudamus, Once Dead and more.
In addition to this, Holy Soldier are currently writing and demoing
new material now and will be officially unleashing some new tunes this
summer as the band goes out on tour!
Rivera/Bomma are just about to take the Rock world by storm with their
new Mausoleum Records release I AM GOD which will be officially
released in Europe & Japan on Mausoleum Records on Feb. 10, 2006 and
in the USA on January 31st, 2006 thru The End Records online @
http://shopping.theendrecords.com/s.nl/sc.2/it.A/id.11784/category.29/
.f
.
Roxx Productions is currently scheduling dates for a tour this summer
featuring both artists.
Both artists are scheduled to appear this summer at Sonshine Festival
along with another Roxx Productions artist Once Dead.
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*** PRESS RELEASE #4 ***
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-Vinnie Paul Announces REBEL MEETS REBEl Released on Big Vin Records
-- May 2nd, 2006
HOLLYWOOD -- REBEL MEETS REBEL is a venture into the Concept and Music
when Country meets Metal. Dimebag loved this record so Vinnie, David
and Rex are fulfilling his dreams and adding to his incredible legacy
by bringing the music they made together to you.
It's not Metal and it's not Country. It's just a get together of
Country Metal Minds -- Pure Hell Raisin', Boozin' and Jammin' Fun, "
explains Vinnie Paul.
The Web site will give you the tell-all on this crazy musical
bastardization that Dimebag loved --
http://www.rebelmeetsrebel.com/
.....REBEL MEETS REBEL and DIMEVISION will be simultaneously released
thru Big Vin Records on April 4th....Thanks for your support.
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*** PRESS RELEASE #5 ***
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-New Release From Radiant Records!
You are in luck! We just got the new Proto-Kaw THE WAIT OF GLORY
Special Edition CDs! This one comes with a bonus DVD of killer live
footage! We hope you are as excited as we are about this great new
release from Kansas mastermind Kerry Livgren and his new band. Here
are some details:
PROTO-KAW FOLLOW-UP THEIR CRITICALLY-ACCLAIMED DEBUT:
Proto-Kaw, the progressive rock sensation founded by former Kansas
guitarist/songwriter/producer Kerry Livgren, has announced that they
will be releasing their sophomore album THE WAIT OF GLORY. THE WAIT OF
GLORY is the follow-up to the band's breakout album BEFORE BECAME
AFTER which was released in April 2004.
Guided by the songwriting savvy of Livgren, Proto-Kaw's second album
proves that the band is no longer just a collaborative effort of old
friends and musicians, but a band full of progressive force and
stability, able to create musical landmarks without forgetting their
storied past.
According to Livgren the aftermath from BEFORE BECAME AFTER provided
the impetus for more things to come. "I think we were very pleased
considering where the band came from, which was out of nowhere," said
Livgren. "To complete a project like that and have it turn out the way
it did, from my perspective, it was not just a bunch of musicians who
came together, it was a bunch of guys who hadn't played in literally
decades."
However, as the band, which is rounded out by vocalist Lynn Meredith,
sax player John Bolton, drummer Brad Schultz, keyboardist Dan Wright
and bass player Craig Kew, slowly began to gel, Livgren and company
headed into the studio with more confidence than ever before. Now more
comfortable with his collective ensemble, THE WAIT OF GLORY became the
product of Livgren's more specified vision.
"On THE WAIT OF GLORY, we went into it as a functioning band," said
Livgren. "I knew what to expect as a producer and a writer. I knew
what the band sounded like and what they were capable of. BEFORE
BECAME AFTER, that was all totally unknown and a roll of the dice.
With this album, I was able to write the material envisioning the band
that was going to be performing it."
Labeled as a jammy, progressive rock band, THE WAIT OF GLORY evokes a
cinematic, Broadway-like feel, something that wasn't lost on Livgren
during the creation of the album.
"I didn't sit down and say I was going to write in this style", said
Livgren. "As the music developed, there was a style that was becoming
obvious and probably cinematic is a good word. The music is
progressive, but progressive I think, in a new way. There are elements
of R&B, which is going back to our very early roots before we were
called Kansas and this is melded into a progressive thing and I can't
think of anyone doing that."
We have the Special Edition in stock and ready to ship right now!!
Order now at:
http://www.radiantrecords.com/
While you're there check out all the other amazing titles in our
humble little shop! We have a lot of great CDs to choose from.
Neal Morse Inner Circle Update -- If you were interested in receiving
Neal's most recent IC release, WHISPERS IN THE WIND - ACOUSTIC
IMPROVISATIONS ON GUITAR AND PIANO CD, the last shipment will go out
February 15th. You'll need to be signed up before then. Just go to
http://www.nealmorse.com/ scroll down, click on the IC banner and
follow the sign up instructions. His next IC release is going to be a
lot of fun. Neal Morse in the '80s! All kinds of music that Neal
recorded in the '80s. This is going to be full of surprises!
Thanks for all your nice comments and support,
Cherie Morse
Radiant Records
http://www.radiantrecords.com/
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*** PRESS RELEASE #6 ***
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-Whitesnake To Sweden Rock Festival!
We can now proudly present Whitesnake to this summer's festival.
Whitesnake (UK)
Rooted in sweaty, British blues rock, Whitesnake became kings of the
hill of the more bombastic and metallic hard rock scene of the 1980s,
but regardless of direction, the name has always stood for quality --
and it has always been the brainchild of super-singer and larger-than-
life frontman David Coverdale.
Apart from the newly recruited bassist Uriah Duffy, the 2006 edition
of the band is the same as the one that visited Sweden Rock Festival
in 2003, and with songs like "Burn," "Ready An' Willing," "Take Me
With You," "Here I Go Again," "Fool For Your Lovin'," "Still Of The
Night" and (or so it has been rumored?) "Mistreated" in the set list,
the sextet now celebrates Coverdale's remarkable career more than ever
before, as can be seen on the fantastic new DVD LIVE - IN THE STILL OF
THE NIGHT.
All friends of macho poses, fabulous vocals and above all truly
classic hard rock: please welcome Whitesnake to Sweden Rock Festival
2006!
http://www.whitesnake.com/
CONFIRMED BANDS:
DEEP PURPLE (UK)
WHITESNAKE (UK)
JOURNEY (US)
VENOM (UK)
CELTIC FROST (CH)
W.A.S.P. (US)
KROKUS (CH)
GAMMARAY (D)
JEFF HEALEY BAND (CAN)
STRYPER (US)
CACTUS (US)
GEORGE THOROGOOD & The Destroyers (US)
THE SENSATIONAL ALEX HARVEY BAND (UK)
CATHEDRAL (UK)
MOLLY HATCHET (US)
ANVIL (CAN)
DORO (D)
THE SWEET (UK)
EASY ACTION (S)
NEVERMORE (US)
METAL CHURCH (US)
EVERGREY (S)
FROM BEHIND (S/UK/US)
BLITZKRIEG (UK)
LORD BELIAL (S)
FIREWIND (GR/S)
JADED HEART (D)
RAISE HELL (S)
THE STORYTELLER (S)
SWEDEN ROCK FESTIVAL 8-10 JUNE 2006
More information about the bands, tickets etc. at our eminent
homepage:
http://www.swedenrock.com/
Triple DVD from Sweden Rock Festival 2005. Buy it at:
http://www.swedenrockshop.com/
Sweden Rock Festival
Norjebokevägen 2
294 76 Sölvesborg
Sweden
Tel: 0456-317 95
Fax: 0456-317 94
E-mail:
info@...
http://www.swedenrock.com/
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*** PRESS RELEASE #7 ***
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-Coming To Hollywood... The Sixth Annual CrueFest Hollywood - July
15th 2006, Whisky A Go-Go
Motley Crue fans organized CrueFest -- a music event to benefit
charity. An event inspired by good-will and the uncensored energy that
Motley Crue's music embodies. Since its inception in 2001, CrueFest
has grown in audience attendance, musician participation, and dollars
raised to benefit cancer research. CrueFest grows every year because
of the dedication of organizers, sponsors, artists, and fans who plan,
donate, and travel to make it happen.
Proceeds from this Sixth annual event go to the Skylar Neil Memorial
Fund for Cancer Research. Skylar Neil is the daughter of Vince Neil
(lead singer of Motley Crue) whose battle with cancer resulted in her
death at age four. Event supporters share their money for a great
cause at CrueFest, and artists donate their talent and time. We all
share love for everyone one of us whose lives have been transformed by
experiences with fatal illness, and the losses -- and gains of
perspective -- that come with it.
Playing this year's event will be Motley Crue Tribute band True 2
Crue, Also playing are Trashlight Vision, Sabrina Korva, Kid Ego, and
Vains Of Jenna, With more great bands to be announced. Special guests
to include adult film star Austyn Moore with more to be added.
Cruefest sponsors this year include Jagermeister, The Whisky A Go-Go,
Pepsi~Cola, Sugarbuzz Magazine, Starbucks, Glitter Gutter Magazine,
Fetish Fiend Fashions, and Circuit City. We look forward to adding
more great sponsors to our growing list! Plus: Free gifts, raffle, and
auction items include artists' donations, shirts, stickers,
Jagermeister gear, and much more...
Tickets are just $30.00! Visit
http://www.cruefest.com/ to buy
tickets, arrange travel plans, and get answers to all of your
questions. We'll see you soon! Email:
Mr_inkslinger@....
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*** PRESS RELEASE #8 ***
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-Revery Comes Out Swinging In 2006!
Band's First Single "Popstar Wedding" is Making Waves at Radio As They
Gear Up for Their Winter Tour
New and Active status obtained in Radio And Records for first single
Riding high off the commercial success of their debut album AVARICE &
ABSOLUTION, which was released in late 2005 through EVO Records,
Revery seems to be on their way to yet another banner year as they
kick off 2006 with new radio adds for "Popstar Wedding" and a winter
tour just around the corner.
"Popstar Wedding," which is the band's first single, is being so well-
received by radio that program directors across the country just can't
seem to get enough. In fact, such heavy-hitters as WEBN 102.7 and WKLQ
107.3 are some of the band's top supporters.
"'Popstar Wedding' combines the familiar sounds of STP, Godsmack,
Alice In Chains and Velvet Revolver all into one solid hit with a
great hook... These guys are the real deal... spin and see what I
mean," said The Dude, music director for WEBN / 102.7.
Darrin Arriens, program director WKLQ / 107.3 adds "The sound and
content of 'Popstar Wedding' pack the punch the size of any supergroup
out there!"
Stations that are also currently spinning the single include WEBN,
WNOR, KCAL, KFRQ, WRTT, Sirius' OCTANE, XM's Squizz and more.
Revery plans to capitalize on their radio success by heading out on a
mini-tour that will take them from their hometown of Virginia Beach to
Cleveland, Ohio in less than two months, which the band says is just
fine with them. Because after spending the better part of their
careers on the road Revery believes that their real home is the stage.
"We are very energetic on stage," says Mike Doyle, lead guitarist.
"Jason (vocalist) has an intense, dramatic and mysterious stage
presence and David (drummer) and I are brothers, so we have a unique
connection. I don't have to think about what he's doing behind the
drums."
Check out Revery's explosive live performance for yourself at a city
near you.
For the latest tour and station information, check out
http://www.reverymusic.com/ or
http://www.evorecordings.com/ .
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*** PRESS RELEASE #9 ***
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-New Transatlantic From Radiant Records!
How are you this fine day? Or is it night where you are? Well,
wherever you are we at Radiant hope you are excited about this new
release from Transatlantic. What? Transatlantic? Aren't they broken
up? Well, it's not as exciting as a new studio album but at least it's
something very cool.
Transatlantic - BUILDING THE BRIDGE and LIVE IN AMERICA DVD
Last year, when they were working on Neal Morse's ? album, Mike
Portnoy asked Neal if he had any extra TA footage to use for bonus
material for a DVD. Mike seemed to think it was a good idea to release
the two Transatlantic videos (BUILDING THE BRIDGE and LIVE IN AMERICA)
on DVD with some bonus footage. Neal agreed and went into his secret
vault (his garage) and produced a few amusing outtakes from the
recording sessions. It was only supposed to take a few months to put
together. Ha! After several months it was ready to be released when --
stop the presses -- we discovered the audio was wrong for the LIVE IN
AMERICA section! No one could figure out what happened or why it was
wrong so Neal contacted Mr. Stolt who said "Oh, the audio was never
right in the first place, I'd really like to re-do it!" So, Roine
found the original audio and fixed it up nice and now we have a brand
new Transatlantic DVD.
For those that don't know, Transatlantic is Mike Portnoy of Dream
Theater (drums), Neal Morse (ex-Spock's Beard on keys and vocals),
Roine Stolt of the Flower Kings (guitar) and Pete Trewavas of
Marillion on bass.
BUILDING THE BRIDGE is a two hour documentary that takes you through
every part of the making of the classic prog album BRIDGE ACROSS
FOREVER. From the writing process at Neal Morse's house to Mike
Portnoy's amazing drum cam footage, to Roine Stolt's stunning guitar
work and Pete Trewavas' spot on bass playing, you'll get to see and
hear the music that made it onto this amazing album, and some that was
left behind.
LIVE IN AMERICA was recorded in Philadelphia in June of 2000. This two
hour concert captures the emotion that is Transatlantic. This is a
full documentation of the band in their first year featuring
performances from their first album, plus jams and classic covers.
NTSC region free.
With a bit of bonus stuff this DVD clocks in at approximately 4 hours!
What a bargain! Anyway, we have 'em in stock and ready to ship. Please
try and order one right away as we are all leaving for Europe next
week. We have someone watching the store while we're gone but we'd
sure like to get them out before we go.
Neal Morse is coming to Europe next week! If you would like to see
where Neal will be go to
http://www.nealmorse.com/live.asp to check
the dates. Great News!! The amazingly talented Mark Leniger (the
percussion and sax man from the Testimony band) is joining Neal from
Feb. 25 on. Free admission at all dates. Special note that we'll be in
Ireland for the first time!! We'll be in Belfast on Feb. 28! Come out
and praise God with us!
Upcoming releases: Neal Morse has just finished a new worship CD
titled SEND THE FIRE - WORSHIP SESSIONS VOLUME 2. It will be available
at these services in Europe and then on-line when we get home March 8.
Also, we just found out about the new Tangent CD, (The Tangent - A
PLACE IN THE QUEUE) and we will have the Special Edition next week.
That's all for now. See you soon we hope!
Cherie Morse
Radiant Records
http://www.radiantrecords.com/
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*** PRESS RELEASE #10 ***
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-Bang Your Head/Rock Of Ages Newsletter
Rock Of Ages 2006: UFO, Andy Scott's Sweet and Gotthard confirmed
With UFO, Andy Scott's Sweet and Gotthard, three more are confirmed to
play the Rock Of Ages, a new German festival set up by the makers of
the German Hard Rock and Heavy Metal festival Bang Your Head!!! The
event is set to take place July 28-29, 2006 in Seebronn (close to
Rottenburg), Germany.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows so far (7 more acts to
be confirmed):
TWISTED SISTER
UFO
ASIA
ANDY SCOTT'S SWEET
GOTTHARD
The English part of the official Rock Of Ages homepage
http://www.rock-of-ages.de/ will be set up soon and feature all
background and latest information about the event as well as the
possibility of ticket online order. Price for a two days' festival
ticket is 79 Euro.
Bang Your Head!!! 2006: Unleashed confirmed
Swedisch Death Metal outfit Unleashed is the latest addition to this
year's installment of the Bang Your Head!!! festival, set to take
place June 23-24, 2006 in Balingen, Germany.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows so far (6 more acts to
be confirmed):
FOREIGNER
HELLOWEEN
Y&T
RIK EMMETT (playing an evening of TRIUMPH music)
JON OLIVA'S PAIN
EXODUS
ARMORED SAINT
FLOTSAM AND JETSAM
VENGEANCE
LEATHERWOLF
COUNT RAVEN
VICTORY
L.A. GUNS
POWERWOLF
All further details about the Bang Your Head!!! may be found at the
BYH!!! homepage at
http://www.bang-your-head.de/ .
Tickets are availaible at ticket-hotline (+49-74 57-94 46 12) and via
homepage
http://www.bang-your-head.de/ . Prices are 59, - Euro (plus
shipping) at presales. Tickets are limited to a number of 20000.
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*** PRESS RELEASE #11 ***
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-Obituary And Sadus Announced As Headliners For Northwest Deathfest
2006
SEATTLE -- Obituary and Sadus will headline the 3rd Annual Northwest
Deathfest, which will be held on May 28 at The Fenix Underground in
Seattle. Tickets go on sale Friday, February 17.
Deeds Of Flesh and Severed Savior will headline the second stage. More
bands from the Pacific Northwest will be announced as they are
confirmed.
Obituary recently returned from a month-long European tour in support
of their latest album FROZEN IN TIME. Their Northwest Deathfest
appearance is one of only two US shows that the band currently has
scheduled.
Bay area thrashers Sadus will return for their second appearance at
the festival. The band will release their new album, OUT FOR BLOOD, on
February 27 through Holland's Mascot Records. This will be Sadus'
first studio recording since 1997.
Howitzer Productions began in 2002 and has promoted over 100 shows, as
well as five festivals in the Washington area.
Sponsors for the festival include Pit Magazine, who will be on hand
with magazines and merchandise. Unique Leader Records will sponsor the
second stage.
The door prizes this year include an X-Box 360 with games, autographed
guitars, donated by Emerald City Guitars, and a DVD player with metal
DVDs. There will also be free giveaways all day long. Vendors will be
on hand selling collectible and current metal merchandise. The first
50 people through the door will receive an autographed poster and the
first 500 people through the door will receive a free CD, which
includes one track each from all of the bands appearing.
The Fenix Underground is located at 109 S. Washington St. in Seattle,
Wash. (206-405-4313). This is an all ages event, 21 and over with ID
for access to the bar. Doors open at 10 a.m. and the show will begin
at 11 a.m. Ticket prices are $25.00 in advance and $30.00 day of show,
and are available through Northwestdeathfest.com, the Fenix
Underground box office, Silver Platters, and Ticketmaster.
http://www.northwestdeathfest.com/
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*** PRESS RELEASE #12 ***
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-Seville Pictures Presents "Metal: A Headbanger's Journey"
A film by Sam Dunn, Scot McFadyen, Jessica Joy Wise
Featuring Tony Iommi, Rob Zombie, Alice Cooper, Dee Snider, Arch Enemy
Opens in Calgary, Vancouver and Toronto on Friday, February 24, 2006
Sam Dunn is a thirty year-old anthropologist. He's also a lifelong
metal fan. After years of studying diverse cultures, Sam turns his
academic eye a little closer to home and embarks on an epic journey
into the heart of heavy metal. His mission: to try and figure out why
metal music is consistently stereotyped, dismissed and condemned, even
while the tribe that loves it stubbornly holds its ground -- spreading
the word, keeping the faith, and adopting the styles and attitudes
that go way beyond the music.
Sam visits heavy metal landmarks as far flung as L.A.'s Sunset Strip,
the dirty streets of Birmingham, and the dark forests of Norway. Along
the way, the two sides of Sam Dunn -- curious anthropologist and rabid
fan -- collide, as Sam explores metal's obsession with sexuality,
religion, violence, and death, meets his heroes, and discoveres some
things about the culture that even he can't defend. Part social
document, part celebration of a misunderstood art form, "Metal: A
Headbanger's Journey" is the first of its kind. A chance for metal
fans to speak out and a window into a culture that's far more
complicated than it appears.
For more metal madness check out:
http://www.metalhistory.com/
RT: 96 min.
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*** PRESS RELEASE #13 ***
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-Legendary Metal Act Venom Release New Studio Album METAL BLACK April
4th, 2006 On Sanctuary Records
Venom, the heaviest band on the planet, a true forefather and inventor
of black metal, has returned. Since debuting with the landmark album
WELCOME TO HELL in 1981, this band has always served up raw, dark,
brutal and powerful music. Now in April 2006, just when everyone
thought metal music couldn't get any heavier, Venom is back to unleash
METAL BLACK.
Venom is a band that has influenced music makers the world over with
their visceral albums. Releases such as BLACK METAL, and songs like
"Warhead," is some of the most familiar and celebrated musical
accomplishments in metal. The band's live shows have always taken
onstage antics and pyrotechnics to another level, raising the bar for
their contemporaries and still drawn upon by new artists. Venom is, in
essence, a legendary band who always delivers the ultimate in extreme
music.
METAL BLACK sees original founding band member Cronos, together with
longstanding members Antton and Mykvs, creating a new masterpiece of
metal. This is such an exciting album for the band -- and for all fans
of Venom -- with 14 brand new roaring and vital tracks. Venom is again
taking the goat by the horns and reinventing their own original style,
as controversial as ever. Venom brings their brand of metal into the
21st century in the form of METAL BLACK, an album that harkens back to
their earlier style. With production quality powerful enough to
incinerate any sound system, and with the delivery of a charging
beast, this is music at its heaviest. This is metal of the darkest
kind. This is METAL BLACK.
http://www.sanctuaryrecords.com/
http://www.venomslegions.com/
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*** PRESS RELEASE #14 ***
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-Kittie Embarks On First Tour In Over A Year This Spring
LONDON, ONTARIO -- America will get its first taste of female metal
band Kittie's new lineup as the band hits the road this spring in
support of its latest material, which was released in the form of a
downloadable EP entitled NEVER AGAIN on February 7 through Rock Ridge
Music.
"After a year hiatus we are more than ready to begin this tour in
April and show the world what we have been up to and prove we are
stronger and more focused than ever," said vocalist/guitarist Morgan
Lander. "This tour will rock!"
The Never Again Tour will give audiences their first glimpse at the
band with new bassist Trish Doan and guitarist Tara Macleod joining
Kittie mainstays Morgan Lander (guitar/vocals) and Mercedes Lander
(drums).
NEVER AGAIN features Kittie's most mature work to date, with the band
throwing out all preconceived notions and writing from the heart.
NEVER AGAIN will be available everywhere digital tracks are sold.
iTunes will offer an exclusive four-track version of the EP which
includes bonus track "Everything That Could Have Been."
Kittie has sold more than a million records since the release of its
debut, SPIT, 2000, which was followed by 2001's ORACLE and 2004's
UNTIL THE END, with several EPs in between.
Between wrapping up a tour in late 2004 and beginning work on new
songs, the Lander sisters kept busy by finally bringing their dream of
creating a clothing company into fruition. Poisoned Black (
http://www.poisonedblack.com/ ) was launched in September 2005.
Direct support on the Never Again Tour will be provided by a variety
of bands playing in different regions. Some of the bands slated to
play are Seemless, Five Bolt Main, Twelve Tribes, Drop Dead Gorgeous,
The Agony Scene, Bloodlined Calligraphy, Byzantine, Dead To Fall,
Donnybrook, Calico System, Burning Armada, Job For A Cowboy, Naos
Project, Jacknife, and On Broken Wings.
"With great bands and our most talented line-up to date, the Never
Again tour will be amazing," said Lander.
Dates are as follow:
03/31/06 Fri. - Marks Showplace, Bedford, NH
04/01/06 Sat. - Saratoga Winners, Latham, NY
04/02/06 Sun. - Rockfest @ Hippodrome, Springfield, MA
04/05/06 Wed. - Rex Theatre, Pittsburg, PA
04/06/06 Thu. - The Temple Club, Lansing, MI
04/07/06 Fri. - The Machine Shop, Flint, MI
04/08/06 Sat. - The Orbit Room, Grand Rapids, MI
04/09/06 Sun. - Big E's, Edgerton, WI
04/11/06 Tue. - The Gothic Theatre, Englewood, CO
04/12/06 Wed. - Club Boom Va, Ogden, UT
04/13/06 Thu. - Big Easy Concert House, Boise, ID
04/14/06 Fri. - Studio Seven, Seattle, WA
04/15/06 Sat. - Rock and Roll Pizza, Portland, OR
04/17/06 Mon. - The Boardwalk, Sacramento, CA
04/18/06 Tue. - The Whisky, W. Hollywood, CA
04/19/06 Wed. - The Dome, Bakersfield, CA
04/20/06 Thu. - Galaxy Theatre, Santa Ana, CA
04/21/06 Fri. - Rialto Theatre, Tucson, AZ
04/22/06 Sat. - Sunshine Theatre, Albuquerque, NM
04/23/06 Sun. - The Zone, El Paso, TX
04/25/06 Tue. - The Ballroom, Corpus Christi, TX
04/27/06 Thu. - Meridian, Houston, TX
04/28/06 Fri. - The White Rabbit, San Antonio, TX
04/29/06 Sat. - Fat Daddys, Lewisville, TX
04/30/06 Sun. - The Hive, Tulsa, OK
05/02/06 Tue. - House of Blues, Lake Buena Vista, FL
05/04/06 Thu. - State Theatre, St. Petersburg, FL
05/05/06 Fri. - The Masquerade, Atlanta, GA
05/06/06 Sat. - Jester's Pub, Fayetteville, NC
05/07/06 Sun. - KC's, Fredericksburg, VA
05/10/06 Wed. - Club Pure, Yonkers, NY
05/11/06 Thu. - Recher Theatre, Towson, MD
05/12/06 Fri. - Crocodile Rock, Allentown, PA
05/13/06 Sat. - Webster Theatre, Hartford, CT
http://www.kittierocks.com/
http://www.rockridgemusic.com/
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*** PRESS RELEASE #15 ***
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-Liquor And Poker Hooks Up With An 'American' Beauty
Sophomore full-length from Bay Area rockers American Heartbreak due
April 18
LOS ANGELES -- For nearly a decade, American Heartbreak have been one
of rock's underground heroes, but with the April 18 release of their
eponymous second full-length, they'll aim to leave the underground
behind and follow in the footsteps of their arena rock idols. Three
songs from the new album have been posted online at both the band's
Web site (
http://www.americanheartbreak.com/ ) and MySpace page (
http://www.myspace.com/americanheartbreak ).
The San Francisco-based quintet -- co-founded by Billy Rowe, onetime
guitarist for Jetboy (a band All Music Guide calls "one of the
best-kept secrets of '80s glam metal") -- blend a punk-influenced pop-
metal aesthetic with the melodic allure and accessible hooks of
classic pop radio. The group's new album -- co-produced by Rick Parker
(Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Space Twins [Weezer guitarist Brian
Bell's side project]) -- proves that if the New Wave of Classic Rock
is in session, American Heartbreak is at the front of the class.
Along with vocalist Lance Boone and former Exodus bassist Michael
Butler (currently the host of the highly successful "Rock And Roll
Geek Show" weekly Podcast), Rowe first introduced American Heartbreak
to rock fans via the 1997 EP WHAT YOU DESERVE, initially released on
Perris Records. After several tribute album contributions and lineup
changes, their first full-length, POSTCARDS FROM HELL, surfaced three
years later on hometown indie Coldfront Records. The album recalled
the unpretentious fun of supercharged Sunset Strip rock while
reinterpreting the buzz-saw melodies of arena rock legends such as
Kiss and Cheap Trick for a post-alternative rock age.
Following a 2001 split-CD with The Libertines, the group added rhythm
guitarist Casey Crenshaw prior to a European tour, during which they
recorded a live set that became the foundation of their next release.
2003's YOU WILL NOT BE GETTING PAID (Perris Records) featured five
live songs, five acoustic tracks (including Starz and Cheap Trick
covers) and six remixed songs from the WHAT YOU DESERVE EP.
After the European releases of YOU WILL NOT BE GETTING PAID and
POSTCARDS FROM HELL on People Like You Records in 2004, the group
returned to the continent for another tour in early 2005. Back on the
home front, they toured the West Coast with Backyard Babies, The
Chelsea Smiles and Crash Kelly that summer. (The group has also toured
and/or gigged with The New York Dolls, The Donnas, Queens Of The Stone
Age, Buckcherry, Warrant, Cinderella, The Scorpions, Dio, Sebastian
Bach, L.A. Guns, Starz and Tsar, among others.)
By year's end, the band completed its second full-length with co-
producer Parker. The result: 13 tracks of timeless rock n' roll. It
proves that while trend-seekers may be fawning over the latest batch
of rock "saviors" as if the genre was invented only yesterday,
American Heartbreak is the real deal -- a band impervious to fads and
driven purely by the desire to play loud, catchy rock.
American Heartbreak will play a series of Western US shows before and
after the album's release, with additional touring to come.
March 22 - Las Vegas, NV – Beauty Bar (w/ The Hellacopters and Nebula)
March 30 - San Francisco, CA – Annie's Social Club (w/ The Kimberly
Trip)
April 1 - Sacramento, CA – Fox & Goose (w/ The Kimberly Trip)
April 7 - Long Beach, CA – Alex's Bar (w/ The Generators)
April 8 - Pomona, CA – The Tiki Room (w/ The Generators)
April 28 - San Francisco, CA – The Pound (w/ Jetboy)
April 29 - Los Angeles, CA – The Whisky (w/ Jetboy)
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*** PRESS RELEASE #16 ***
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-Band Name: Iyam
Description: IYAM delivers a heavy metal message of keeping the mind
free of the ever present negative power of Satan. Join with IYAM to
wage war against the evil forces that attack from without by using the
unlimited powers of good and God that come from within.
Biography: If you've never seen or heard of the rock band IYAM, it is
not because they have not been around. Since 1983 songwriting team
Kirk Layne, on drums/vocals, and Al Gollehon, on bass/backup vocals,
have been cranking out metal in various projects.
Developing a unique yet seductive style over the years, in 1986 they
invited guitarist Myke Starr to audition and then join to make what
was a high energy trio, playing some clubs and parties, but mainly
developing recording techniques.
In January of 1994 drummer and friend Robert Cordray was offered a
chance to take over the percussion section when Kirk decided to move
up to the front stage with the vocals. Robert did a great job on ALL
IS WELL, but was forced to leave unexpectedly soon after the recording
was finished.
Enter Ian Carroll, professional drummer for over 10 years. Ian is a
natural, coming from a family of performers. With an incredible
drumming style and hard rock attitude, it was obvious on the first
audition that Ian was the guy for the thrown.
-review from Music News Magazine
IYAM - ALL IS WELL
"All is clearly well in the IYAM camp. Their new CD is just plainly
incredible! The talent in each individual member is memorable but
joined together as a band, you've got one hell of a band and product!
I want to say that the music falls somewhere in with Dream Theater and
Rush with a side influence of Satriani. Starting off the CD with title
track 'All Is Well' you get a small sample of what is to follow with
the strong sounds both musically and vocally. 'Witches And Warlocks'
has a mesmerizing vocal style and the beat will hold you at attention.
'Musical Chairs' has a strong Pink Floyd sound and notable lyrics --
'We are all things / we are floating / now the end sings / now we
leave our / Musical Chairs.' 'Majestic Union' is a catchy song and
would be one for airplay. 'Dreams In Progress,' 'Going Through The
Motions,' 'Climbing The Walls' and 'It's All A Show' have lyrical
poetry and the music to make these words into some breathtaking songs.
The CD has incredible production and the booklet is artsy and very
impressive -- this is a top notch product. You can go out and find ALL
IS WELL at Cactus, Don's Record Shop or 'Rock N Roll It.' Better yet,
go to the CD Release Party on March 29th at Headquarters (first 50
people get a free CD or cassette!)."
Contact IYAM Productions at
16511 Waycreek Rd.
Houston, TX. 77068
Thanks from IYAM to Laura Haneiko and the staff at Houston's Music
News Magazine
Sound Files:
http://www.musicsubmit.com/bandmusicfiles/10138-All_Is_Well.mp3
http://www.musicsubmit.com/bandmusicfiles/10138-Majestic_Union.mp3
http://www.musicsubmit.com/bandmusicfiles/10138-
Witches_And_Warlocks.mp3
http://www.iyam.net/
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*** PRESS RELEASE #17 ***
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-Z Records News
WINTERSTRAIN CONFIRMED FOR Z ROCK 06
Norway's WinterStrain are confirmed to appear at Z Rock 06 on April
2nd 2006.
The band will also appear at the Polar Rock Festival Storsteinnes,
northern Norway which will take place July 1/2.
WinterStrain where asked to appear at the festival due to the strength
of their worldwide release RETURN TO THE MIRROR. The band are
considering airing brand new material destined for their next album
which is currently in progress.
TONY MILLS SOLO LIVE DATES:
Tony Mills will appear on the Polar Rock Festival Storsteinnes
northern Norway on July 1/2 this year!
Tony will be featuring material from his solo albums, Siam, and even a
few Shy songs, and for this special occasion WinterStrain will be his
backing band!!
more details to follow........
VON GROOVE SOUND SAMPLES NOW ONLINE!
Sound samples are now online at
http://www.zrecords.net/ from the
classic Von Groove reissue, if you have never heard the Album check it
out!
SNAKERYDER PHOTOS AND SOUND SAMPLES ONLINE
Snakeryder recently took some studio shots whilst recording and
mastering their new album which are now online, sound samples will be
online here this coming Friday at
http://www.zrecords.net/ !!!
http://www.zrecords.net/
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*** PRESS RELEASE #18 ***
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-Bang Your Head!!! 2006: Death Angel Confirmed
US thrashers Death Angel is the latest addition to this year's
installment of the Bang Your Head!!! festival, set to take place June
23-24, 2006 in Balingen, Germany. The band's show will be their only
live apperance on German ground this year and the members announced a
special set list with many songs they haven't played for ages.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows so far (5 more acts to
be confirmed):
FOREIGNER
HELLOWEEN
Y&T
RIK EMMETT (playing an evening of TRIUMPH music)
JON OLIVA'S PAIN
DEATH ANGEL
EXODUS
ARMORED SAINT
FLOTSAM AND JETSAM
VENGEANCE
LEATHERWOLF
COUNT RAVEN
VICTORY
L.A. GUNS
POWERWOLF
All further details about the Bang Your Head!!! may be found at the
BYH!!! homepage at
http://www.bang-your-head.de/ .
Tickets are availaible at ticket-hotline (+49-74 57-94 46 12) and via
homepage
http://www.bang-your-head.de/ . Prices are 59, - Euro (plus
shipping) at presales. Tickets are limited to a number of 20000.
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #19 ***
*
-The Trews To Release First US Album April 18th Through Red Ink/Sony
BMG
Heralded as One of Canada's Hottest Rock Acts, The Trews Plan to
Invade the U.S. with SXSW Performance and New Release!
Having conquered their native country of Canada with two Gold albums
and six "Top 10" singles (including two #1 singles at rock radio), The
Trews are ready to take on the US with the April 18th release of DEN
OF THIEVES through Red Ink/Sony BMG.
Since the release of their 2003 debut, HOUSE OF ILL FAME, The Trews
have become one of Canada's most recognized rock bands. They are
excited to break in to the US market and have a return performance at
this year's SXSW Music Festival to kick off their album release.
"For the past three years, we've enjoyed the success that we've earned
in Canada. Not only have we learned a lot about the business but we've
also matured both personally and musically. I think DEN OF THIEVES
reflects this and that we are ready for the US," said vocalist Colin
MacDonald.
DEN OF THIEVES was recorded with Grammy award-winning producer Jack
Douglas (Aerosmith, John Lennon, The New York Dolls). Douglas
encouraged a conscious effort to present many musical influences on
their sophomore album. The songs that comprise DEN OF THIEVES include
an eclectic mix of their trademark heavy hitting rock sound mixed with
melodic undertones evidenced by the use of horns, strings, harmonica
and even banjo. So far, the critics are eating it up.
Released last summer in Canada, DEN OF THIEVES has earned rave reviews
from such esteemed critics as Dexter Haven of Access Magazine who
wrote; "It's not like The Trews invented Rock N' Roll, but I'll be
damned if DEN OF THIEVES almost makes me think they did."
The Trews' technical proficiency and raw devotion are not limited to
their album. Heralded as "One of the hottest live bands in Canada,"
The Trews are no strangers to the stage, having performed with such
superstar performers as Evanescence, Nickelback, Robert Plant and The
Rolling Stones.
"Performing 400 plus shows over the past two and a half years has made
us a pretty tight and connected group," said guitarist and vocalist
John-Angus MacDonald. "Playing that many shows is hard work but it
pays off, we've emerged as a stronger band, both as friends and
musicians."
Following the SXSW show, The Trews will also play a handful of shows
with their touring buddy, Will Hoge and plan to stay busy with
additional US dates following the April 18th album release.
Confirmed dates thus far include:
3/15/06 - Austin, TX - MoMo's (SXSW)
3/16/06 - Dallas, TX - Gypsy Tea Room w/ Will Hoge
3/17/06 - Tulsa, OK - The Hive - w/ Will Hoge
3/18/06 - Little Rock, AK - Sticky Fingerz - w/ Will Hoge
3/21/06 - Cleveland, OH - Beachland Tavern w/ Will Hoge
The track listing for the album is as follows.
Fire Up Ahead
Makin' Sunshine
Cry
Sweetness
I Can't Say
So She's Leaving
Yearning
Tired Of Waiting
Poor Ol' Broken Hearted Me
Ana & Mia
Naked
Montebello Park
Got Myself To Blame
The Traveling Kind
Ishmael & Maggie
For more information about The Trews, visit
http://www.thetrewsmusic.com/ .
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #20 ***
*
-Nebula To Support The Hellacopters
On March 6, acclaimed L.A. power trio Nebula will embark on the first
tour -- a three-week, nationwide jaunt with labelmates The
Hellacopters (the Swedish quintet's first US tour in four years) -- in
support of new album APOLLO (street date: Feb. 21), the group's fourth
full-length. Produced by Daniel Rey (Ramones, Misfits, L7), APOLLO --
which sees the addition of new bassist Tom Davies -- features a bonus
bootleg video of new song "Future Days" recorded during a recent
Japanese tour. An MP3 of another new track, "Fever Frey," has been
posted at
http://www.liquorandpokermusic.com/ , where the album is
currently available for pre-order.
The Nebula/Hellacopters tour will also feature New Zealand's The
Datsuns on three east-coast shows, but when the tour hits Austin,
Texas for the annual music industry conference South By Southwest,
Nebula will perform alongside Sweden's Division Of Laura Lee (Epitaph
Records) at Maggie Mae's on 6th Street -- just around the corner from
Emo's, where The Hellacopters will play with Turbonegro, The Datsuns
and The Riverboat Gamblers, among others.
Nebula tour dates (all w/ The Hellacopters except *)
March 6 - Chicago, IL – Double Door
March 7 - Indianapolis, IN – The Vogue
March 8 - Philadelphia, PA – Khyber (also w/ Bad Wizard, Rye
Coalition)
March 9 - Baltimore, MD – Sonar
March 10 - New York, NY – Bowery Ballroom (also w/ The Datsuns)
March 11 - Boston, MA – Axis (also w/ The Datsuns)
March 12 - Washington, D.C. – Black Cat (also w/ The Datsuns)
March 13 - Atlanta, GA – Masquerade
March 15 - Dallas, TX – Lizard Lounge
March 16 - Houston, TX – Meridian
March 17 - San Antonio, TX – Sanctuary
March 18 - Austin, TX – Maggie Mae's* (SXSW, w/ Division Of Laura Lee)
March 20 - Denver, CO – Bluebird
March 21 - Salt Lake City, UT – Club Sound
March 22 - Las Vegas, NV – Celebrity Vegas (also w/ American
Heartbreak)
March 23 - San Diego, CA – Casbah
March 24 - San Francisco, CA – Slim's
March 25 - Los Angeles, CA – El Rey
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #21 ***
*
-Lion Music Press Release
House Of Shakira set for Sweden Rock and Live DVD
Swedish melodic hard rock sensations House Of Shakira have been
confirmed for this year's Sweden Rock Festival (
http://www.swedenrock.com/ ) taking place from the 8 to the 10 June
2006 at Sölvesborg, Sweden. The five piece band who have been
gathering superb press over the past few years will be playing tracks
from their back catalogue along with the possibility of a new material
from their next studio album on Lion Music (due Autumn 2006 – TBC).
Lion Music will also release the band's -- and label's -- first DVD on
April 21st 2006 entitled LIVE AT FIREFEST. Recorded live at the 2005
Firefest in the UK, the DVD presents the band's complete set list from
the day along with some very special material from the history of
House Of Shakira.
Related Links
Official House Of Shakira Web site
http://www.house-of-shakira.nu/
Sphere Of Souls set to Rise From The Ashes...
Sphere Of Souls has been described as a "formation brandishing a glut
of Dutch prog-metal talent."
The band was formed by vocalist André Vuurboom following his departure
from Sun Caged in May 2004. Former Autumn Equinox bassist Kees
Harrison was soon recruited to the lineup, followed by rhythm
guitarist Rob Cerrone (ex-Imperium) and drummer Ruud van Diepen (ex-
Autumn Equinox). Joost van den Broek (ex-Sun Caged, Star One/Ayreon)
immediately expressed a keen interest in the project, offering his
services as keyboard player and producer. Guitar virtuoso Anand
Mahangoe agreed to contribute solos and has since become a permanent
member of the band.
In May 2005, following a period of intense writing and rehearsals,
Sphere Of Souls entered Rotterdam's Excess Studios to record their
debut album FROM THE ASHES... The album is of a conceptual nature and
features 13 tracks ranging from the heavy to the atmospheric. The
music has been described as "Fates Warning meets Psychotic Waltz."
FROM THE ASHES... will be released worldwide on 21 April 2006 through
Lion Music. The release will be followed by live shows.
Samples from the album and a short preview video can be found on the
band's Web site at
http://www.sphereofsouls.com/ .
French prog metal merchants Venturia sign to Lion Music
Lion Music are proud to announce the signing of French band Venturia.
Venturia's music is a mix of metal, clean pop melodies, technical
progressive rock and high virtuosity. There's something for everyone
on this disc, no matter if you're a novice to the metal genre or a
highly skilled musician yourself.
This band is the future of metal.
Venturia was formed in 2000 by French guitarist Charly Sahona and
drummer Diego Rapacchietti, who had already made a name for himself
through his great playing with artists like Zero, Paganini and BPM.
Charly had previously worked with various French artists and
participated on the Shawn Lane tribute record SHAWN LANE REMEMBERED,
released on Lion Music.
Bass player Thomas James later joined the band and added his versatile
talents to Venturia's music.
Male vocalist Marc Ferreira is a solo artist from New York who shares
vocal lines with Venturia's female vocalist Lydie Robin. The pop/rock-
like singing of Marc (reminiscing that of Savage Garden vocalist
Darren Hayes) contrasts with the pure, clean and sensual female voice
of Lydie Robin, creating a fantastic blend of aggressive and melodic
vocal duet lines.
To complete the lineup, Kevin Codfert (voted best keyboardist of the
year 2004 for the magazine Castle Of Pagan for his playing with the
band Adagio) was invited to share the guitar/keyboards parts with
Charly on the record. Kevin appears as a guest artist in Venturia.
In 2004 the band began recording the debut album, THE NEW KINGDOM,
partly at Artsonik studios in Switzerland with Carryl Montini as
producer, and partly at X-fade studios in France under the guiding
eyes of Kevin Codfert, who also mixed the album. The mastering of the
album took place at House Of Audio in Germany by Jurgen Lusky, and was
finalized in August 2005. The album is set for release on Lion Music
on April 21st 2005.
For more information visit the band's management Web site at
http://www.intromental.com/venturia/ ; the band's official Web site
will be online very soon.
Forthcoming Releases (March 24th 2006)
Zeelion - STEEL ATTACK
Long awaited second album from the hard rock sensations from
Scandinavia.
Satyrian - ETERNITAS
Gothic metal at its best.
Coste Apetrea - RITES OF PASSAGE
Stunning new solo from a true prog legend.
Also be sure to check out the Lion Music Web site which is getting a
makeover over the next few weeks.
http://www.lionmusic.com/
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #22 ***
*
-Eric Ragno: New Album, NAMM Press And Keytar Video Feature!
Hey folks, just checking in with a quick blurb to catch you up with
the latest. Things have been pretty crazy since the holidays, leading
right up to the NAMM music trade show. This year's NAMM was pretty
awesome, where I got to jam all weekend with my friend Jack Frost. We
hosted a revolving door of special guests, including Rev Jones from
Michael Schenker's band and Mick Mahan of Pat Benetar's band. In
addition to being featured in two different promotional campaigns, I
also received two new endorsements this year which I will be writing
about in greater detail on my Web site,
http://www.keyboardplayer.net/
. Wait there's more...
I've gotten a lot of press recently surrounding the Williams Keytar (
http://www.keytarinc.com/ ) that I have been endorsing for almost a
year now, allowing me to play guitar parts without actually playing a
guitar! The folks at One Blue Monkey recently filmed me during a
segment for their NAMM feature, where you can see me playing this
remarkable instrument. Among other things I am playing the new China
Blue song "So Wrong." Be sure to check it out at
http://www.onebluemonkey.com/WinterNAMM20061.asp?id=424 .
And now I'm proud to announce the debut release by The Rainy
Thursdays,
http://www.myspace.com/therainythursdays . This is a
keyboard laden disc of alternative magic that has been compared to
everyone from current radio favorites like Evanescence and The
Killers, right up to '80s classics like A Flock Of Seagulls. It's much
more mainstream than some of the heavier albums I've worked on in the
last year. You can preview the songs from this EP on the band's
MySpace page, where we've amassed a legion of dedicated fans who are
in love with the new music. You can also purchase the album for $10
from my on-line store,
http://www.ericragno.com/store.html . As with
all purchases from my site you not only get free shipping, but for a
limited time I'll also throw in a copy of my piano CD FALLEN HEROES
with every purchase, along with the latest buttons, autographed
picture or anything else I've got laying around when your order gets
shipped.
Thanks again for your continued support. 2006 is already shaping to be
a phenomenal year and I wish you all the best! Be sure to stop by my
website and check out all the latest news and updates. There's always
something going on...
All the best,
Eric
KEYBOARD PLAYER.NET
http://www.keyboardplayer.net/
http://www.myspace.com/ericragno
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #23 ***
*
-Perris Announces Joker Five Speed Compilation
Perris Records are proud to announce that on Tuesday, February 28th,
Perris Records will be releasing ROCK N' ROLL IS A MOTHERFUCKER, a
compilation of songs from Joker Five Speed recorded between 2000-2005.
This album contains 14 bare-knuckle heavyweight Joker Five Speed
classics, three of which are out of print, five of which have never
been released on disc until now and one special bonus demo track of
one of the last songs written by the band before the highly publicized
break-up entitled "Dirty Power." This is a must have for any true rock
fan and a bargain at any price. ROCK N' ROLL IS A MOTHERFUCKER is
proof positive that great rock bands don't burn out or fade away --
they just put out a greatest hits packages. Look for it February 28 in
all major retail and on-line music outlets both domestically and
Europe.
http://www.perrisrecords.com/
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #24 ***
*
-Jorn Lande To Replace Nevermore At ProgPower USA VII
ATLANTA -- Jorn Lande, one of metal's most renowned and prolific
vocalists, has been tapped to replace Nevermore as the Saturday night
headliner at ProgPower USA VII.
The singer, whose credits include Masterplan and ARK, will close the
show with a unique set covering not only his solo career but songs
from the various bands and projects over the course of his entire
career.
"I hated to lose Nevermore, but I am ecstatic over being able to get
one of the best voices in metal today," said Promoter Glenn Harveston.
"After speaking with Jorn, I am convinced that this will be a once in
a lifetime set that you won't see anywhere else in the world."
Added Lande: "It's an honor to play ProgPower USA this year. The
festival is well known around the world for keeping progressive metal
and hard rock alive. We will do our best to give you a few surprises
and make it one of the most memorable sets in the history of the
festival."
Evergrey -- complete with a choir and string quartet -- will headline
the first night of the two-day festival, which will take place on
Friday and Saturday, September 15 and 16 at Earthlink Live in Atlanta.
The rest of the lineup is German power metal band Savage Circus, Dutch
symphonic metal band Epica, Pyramaze, Wastefall, Sweden's Freak
Kitchen, Finland's Thunderstone, Italy's Vision Divine, and Denmark's
Mercenary.
The festival's annual pre-party will take place on Thursday, September
14 at The Vinyl Club inside of Earthlink Live and will feature
performances by Theocracy, Circus Maximus, Leatherwolf, and Circle II
Circle.
Tickets for ProgPower USA VII will go on sale Saturday, April 1 at 10
a.m. EST via all Ticketmaster outlets. Only 900 tickets will be made
available to the public. Advance Gold Badges, which presently have a
two-year wait list, are sold out. ProgPower USA has sold out more than
four months in advance for the past four years. Last year's festival
sold out in a record four days.
Tickets are for the pre-party are $20 and go on sale April 8 at 10
a.m. EST. There will only be 600 tickets available in advance.
ProgPower USA VII is sponsored by Pacific Drums, Sabian Cymbals, Shure
Microphones, Evans Drumheads, D'Addario Strings, and Planet Wave
Cables. Interested sponsors may contact ProgPower USA via
http://www.progpowerusa.com/ .
Information is available on the website for parties interested in
participating in the CD Showcase sampler or advertising in the
official program.
http://www.progpowerusa.com/
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #25 ***
*
-Gary Barden Returns To Denmark
In his first return to Copenhagen since touring with MSG, Gary Barden
is bringing his band, Statetrooper to The Rock on March 3rd.
The band which also features Sweet drummer Bruce Bisland, Gavin Cooper
(Killers), Jeff Summers (Weapon), and guitar discovery Martin Mickels,
will be performing a one-off show, in preparation for recording their
new studio album, the follow-up to the critically acclaimed THE
CALLING.
Statetrooper are supported on the night by their friends, M.ill.ion,
the Swedish act that have recently released their fifth studio album,
KINGSIZE.
Statetrooper was originally formed in the early '80s, after Gary left
the Michael Schenker Group, and recorded their self-titled album, then
toured with bands such as the Blue Oyster Cult, until they called it a
day soon after. They reformed in 2003 after Web-based fan sites
started clamouring for more!
Last year saw them headline the Spendrups stage at the Sweden Rock
Festival, where they recorded their first live album, due to be
released this summer to tie in with some festivals they will be
performing at.
http://www.statetrooper.co.uk/
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #26 ***
*
-Megadeth And Capitol/EMI To Release ARSENSAL OF MEGADETH, A Two-Disc
DVD Anthology Spanning Band's Career Of Metal Mastery
New DVD Set Contains Nearly Three Hours of Footage, Including Music
Videos and 32 Previously Unreleased Live Performances, Home Video and
Interviews
In Stores: March 21, 2006
HOLLYWOOD -- Megadeth has teamed with Capitol Records/EMI Music
Catalog Marketing to unleash ARSENSAL OF MEGADETH, a new comprehensive
two-disc DVD collection available March 21. A visual career anthology
containing 32 previously unreleased clips, ARSENSAL OF MEGADETH
chronicles the rise and evolution of the band, providing fans with a
heavy metal armory of music videos, interviews, home video shot by
Megadeth's own Dave Mustaine and hidden tracks. Clocking in at almost
three hours, ARSENSAL OF MEGADETH's track list was personally compiled
by Mustaine, ensuring the ultimate head-hammering Megadeth experience.
Following the 2005 release of Megadeth's GREATEST HITS: BACK TO THE
START CD and deluxe CD/DVD collections of singles and fan favorites,
ARSENSAL OF MEGADETH provides fans with the most in-depth look ever
provided into the band's storied history. In addition to 20 of the
band's music videos, ARSENSAL contains a bevy of career-spanning
previously unreleased material, including behind the scenes audition
footage, a 1995 band appearance on MTV's "Most Wanted," a clip of Dave
Mustaine's guest appearance on "The Drew Carey Show," and concert
footage from 2005's Gigantour -- essential cuts for every Megafan.
In 2005, Megadeth was the headbanging, headlining act of Dave
Mustaine's Gigantour, a tour founded on the principles of "fan-
friendly" pricing and accessibility to the music. Mustaine's vision
for Gigantour was to "put together a festival that consisted of
positive bands that play heavy music in a high energy environment."
2005's inaugural Gigantour did just that and was an immense
international success. ARSENSAL OF MEGADETH contains previously
unreleased concert footage from the tour, including a live performance
of Megadeth's metal anthem, "Peace Sells."
Megadeth was formed in 1983, and in the words of "The Decline of
Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years" director Penelope
Spheeris, "[have] always been intelligent and uncompromising; they
gave an entire generation a new perspective on our troubled world."
Megadeth members Dave Mustaine, Glen Drover (lead and rhythm guitar),
James MacDonough (bass) and Shawn Drover (drums) keep themselves
engaged with their fanbase by regularly posting to the official
Megadeth Web site (
http://www.megadeth.com/ ). The site connects fans
to the Megadeth eBay auction site and fan forums, and provides up-to-
date official information on all-things-Megadeth.
As Megadeth rips into its 23rd year, check out ARSENSAL OF MEGADETH --
an essential weapon for every Rattlehead and metal lover's own DVD
armory.
*
*** NEWS/RUMORS ***
*
-Armored Saint has announced a few select festival dates for 2006:
6/23 - Willemeen, Arnhem, The Netherlands
6/24 - Bang Your Head!!! Festival, Balingen, Germany
6/25 - Graspop Festival, Dessel, Belgium
6/27 - Academy, Manchester, UK
6/28 - Corporation, Sheffield, UK
6/29 - Underworld, London, UK
Check out
http://www.joeyvera.com/ for more info.
-ASKA will play it's sixth annual Big Badass Birthday Show this
Saturday, February 25, at O'Rileys off Forrest Lane in Dallas, TX.
Hype: "There will be door prizes, special guests Edge Of Chaos and
Live Wire and an ASKA show that you will not want to miss. ASKA will
also be having songs played before the show from the upcoming CD. You
DO NOT WANT TO MISS THIS!"
-Bang Tango will release the 12-track FROM THE HIP on Perris Recores
on May 9. The band is now on the road with Stephen Pearcy and Pretty
Boy Floyd (see dates elsewhere in this issue).
-Robin Beck is working on a DVD collection her "best promo videos, TV
performances, and interviews." It will include "many rare clips from
throughout the years, including a special section recounting the story
behind the song 'First Time' and how it evolved from a Coca-Cola TV
advertisement into a number one smash hit around the globe." The disc
can be pre-ordered now at
http://www.robinbeckrocks.com/ .
-Beyond Fear, featuring Tim "Ripper" Owens, will release its debut
album May 9 on SPV. More info can be found at
http://www.timripperowens.com/ .
-Blind Guardian has streaming audio available from its upcoming single
"Fly" at the Nuclear Blast site,
http://www.nuclearblast-musicshop.de/
. The three-track single is slated release this week. Track list:
"Fly," "Skalds And Shadows" (acoustic version), "In A Gadda Da Vida"
(Iron Butterfly cover). Get more info at Blind Guardian's official
site
http://www.blind-guardian.com/ .
-Children Of Bodom's updated tour dates are as follows:
3/18 - Toad,s, New Haven, CT
3/19 - Starland Ballroom, Sayreville, NJ
3/20 - Norva, Norfolk, VA
3/21 - Recher Theater, Towson, MD
3/22 - Lupos, Providence, RI
3/24 - Koolhaus, Toronto, ON
3/25 - House Of Blues, Cleveland, OH
3/26 - Newport Music Hall, Columbus, OH
3/27 - Club Zoo, Pittsburgh, PA
3/29 - House Of Blues, Chicago, IL
3/30 - Pops, St. Louis, MO
3/31 - Granada Theatre, Lawrence, KS
4/01 - Cains Ballroom, Tulsa, OK
4/03 - House Of Blues, Las Vegas, NV
4/04 - Rialto Theatre, Tucson, AZ
4/05 - Sunshine Theatre, Albuquerque, NM
4/07 - Colonial Theatre, Sacramento, CA
4/08 - Slims, San Francisco, CA
4/10 - House Of Blues, Anaheim, CA
-Dio will release a two-CD live set titled HOLY DIVER LIVE on April 18
in North America. Track list: CD #1 - "Stand Up And Shout," "Holy
Diver," "Gypsy," "Caught In The Middle," "Don't Talk To Strangers,"
"Straight Through The Heart," "Invisible," "Rainbow In The Dark,"
"Shame On The Night." CD #2 - "Tarot Woman," "Sign Of The Southern
Cross," "One Night In The City," "Gates Of Babylon," "Heaven And
Hell," "Man On The Silver Mountain," "Long Live Rock 'N' Roll," "We
Rock." Check out Dio's Web site for all the updates:
http://www.ronniejamesdio.com/ .
-According to recent posts at
http://www.snowyshaw.com/ , drummer and
main man Snowy Shaw has "decide[d] to pull the plug and quit" Dream
Evil, "taking all his songs with him which he intends to use on his
own."
-Dream Theater recently performed Deep Purple's MADE IN JAPAN disc in
its entirety at two shows in Japan, January 13 in Tokyo and January 15
in Osaka. The band has previously done this with Iron Maiden's THE
NUMBER OF THE BEAST, Pink Floyd's DARK SIDE OF THE MOON, and
Metallica's MASTER OF PUPPETS. In related news, drummer Mike Portnoy
recently told
http://www.dreamtheater.net/ no former band members will
join Dream Theater onstage at the final show of the 20th Anniversary
Tour 2005/2006, at New York City's Radio City Music Hall on April 1.
The quote: "Kevin Moore has (once again) passed on my invitation to
join us at Radio City Music Hall.... so just to not get people's hopes
up with their predictions, I can officially confirm there will NOT be
any ex-Dream Theater members joining us on stage that evening... It
will however, still be VERY special!"
-Upcoming FireHouse tour dates:
3/2 - Shooter's, Saginaw, MI
3/3 - Streeters, Traverse City, MI
3/4 - Hayloft Liquor Stand, Mt. Clemens, MI
3/17 - Elixur Nightclub, Rockford, IL
4/15 - Prairie Knights Casino & Resort, Fort Yates, ND
4/20 - Red Rooster, Winston Salem, NC
4/22 - Amos, Charlotte, NC
4/27 - 4/29 - Pioneer Casino, Laughlin NV (w/ Warrant)
5/7 - Stanley Theater, Utica, NY
5/13 - Win River Casino, Redding, CA
5/20 - Blue Water Resort & Casino, Parker, AZ
6/3 - Bourbon Street, New Port Richey, FL
6/8 - A Taste Of Summer @ Waukesha County Expo Center, Waukesha, WI
6/9 - Ronald McDonald House @ New York Mills VFM, New York Mills, MN
6/16 - Awesome Biker Nights 2006, Sioux City, IA
7/1 - Riverfront Rendezvous, Steven's Point, WI
More dates will be announced soon. See
http://www.firehousemusic.com/
,
http://www.leverty.com/ , and
http://www.wanderlustband.com/ for
more.
-According to posts at
http://www.firewind.gr/ , Firewind is currently
in the studio with the new lineup featuring Apollo Papathanasio
(Majestic, Time Requiem) on vocals and Mark Cross (Helloween,
Metalium) on drums.
-The Flower Kings will release a double album called PARADOX HOTEL
March 28 on Inside Out Music America. The 125-minute release features
17 tracks. The band is set to perform at the Baja Prog festival in
Mexicali, Mexico, and The Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom in Denver,
CO, next month. More live dates will be announced soon.
-The Gathering will release HOME on April 18 in North America via The
End Records. Track list: "Shortest Day," "In Between," "Alone,"
"Waking Hour," "Fatigue," "A Noise Severe," "Forgotten," "Solace,"
"Your Troubles Are Over," "Box," "The Quiet One," "Home," "Forgotten
Reprise." (Check out an MP3 of "Shortest Day" at
http://media.theendrecords.com/TheGathering_Home_Shortestday.mp3 .)
The band will play the South By Southwest Music Festival in Austin,
TX, on March 16 at Lava Lounge, and a "small US tour" is being planned
as part of the Homelands World Tour. See
http://www.gathering.nl/ for
more.
-Hallows Eve has a new "deluxe box set" called HISTORY OF TERROR due
early next month on Metal Blade. The set will include re-mastered
versions of the TALES OF TERROR, DEATH AND INSANITY, and MONUMENT
albums, plus "piles of bonus material including demos, rehearsals and
live recordings, and a bonus DVD (with a playing time of over 200
minutes!)!!! Liner notes by bassist/mainman Tommy Stewart will be
included as well."
-Heed has signed to Metal Heaven Records for the European release of
its debut album, THE CALL, due out June 9. The band features former
Lost Horizon members Daniel Heiman and Fredrik Olsson. Check out the
official Web site for sound samples:
http://www.heedonline.com/ .
-Iron Fire has signed with Napalm Records, and REVENGE is due out
March 24 in Europe and April 25 in North America. The disc was
produced by Tommy Hansen (Helloween, TNT, Hatesphere) and features
cover art by Eric Philippe (Rhapsody, Luca Turilli).
-Mike Kischnick has a new site for all his various bands including
Empyria and New Horizon III at
http://www.empyriaproductions.com/ .
-Michael Kiske (Helloween, SupaRed) is in the studio working on his
next solo project, which should be released as KISKE. Everything
should be finished this month and the album should be out after the
summer. In related news, Frontiers will reissue Kiske's 1996 solo
album INSTANT CLARITY with three "brand new" bonus tracks: "Truly,"
"Can't Tell," and "Sacred Grounds."
-Kiss' Paul Stanley is shopping his completed solo album, LIVE TO WIN.
Cohort Gene Simmons (along with Bag) recently recorded a theme song
for Indy Car racing, "I Am Indy," that is availble at
http://www.indycar.com/ .
-DinosaurRockGuitar.com has new interviews with Loudness vocalist
Minoru Niihara and guitarist Akira Takasaki at
http://www.dinosaurrockguitar.com/interviews/Loudness.shtml . Updated
Loudness North American tour dates:
3/18 - Galaxy Concert Theatre, Santa Ana, CA
3/19 - Key Club, West Hollywood, CA
3/20 - The Pound San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
3/22 - Joe's On Weed Street, Chicago, IL
3/23 - I-Rock Nightclub, Detroit, MI
3/24 - Peabody's Down Under, Cleveland, OH
3/25 - The Chance Entertainment Complex, Poughkeepsie, NY
3/26 - B.B. King's Blues Club & Grill, New York, NY
3/27 - Cafe Campus, Montreal, QC
3/29 - The Legendary Horseshoe Tavern, Toronto, ON
3/31 - Webster Theatre, Hartford, CT
4/1 - Jaxx, Springfield, VA
4/2 - Jesters Pub, Fayetteville, NC
-Swiss symphonic metal band Lunatica is working on a new album called
THE EDGE OF INFINITY. The disc will be produced by Sascha Paeth and
Miro, and is due out on Frontiers Records. See
http://www.lunatica.ch/
and
http://www.frontiers.it/ for more.
-Mad Margritt will shoot a video this month for "Cold Sweat," and it
will be featured on a forthcoming DVD from Perris Records. The band
also just finished a photo shoot with new guitarist Scott Banks, and
the pictures should be on the official Web site and MySpace page soon.
See
http://www.madmargritt.com/ and
http://www.myspace.com/madmargritt
for more.
-Manowar guitarist Karl Logan was injured in a motorcycle accident
last month, sustaining "severe injuries to his left arm, which will
prevent him from performing for an as-yet-unknown period of time."
Logan had been preparing to record his parts for the next Manowar
album, which has now been delayed. The band has also postponed all
upcoming European dates on the "Demons, Dragons And Warriors World
Tour" with Rhapsody and Holyhell. See
http://www.manowar.com/ for
more.
-Megadeth main man Dave Mustaine has officially announced the
departure of James MacDonough (Iced Earth) from the band, replaced by
James Lomenzo (Black Label Society, White Lion). See
http://www.megadeth.com/ for the official announcement.
-Check out
http://www.mattmoliti.com/ for da poop on a new release
from Matt Moliti's Dark Empire. (We recently heard the one-track promo
sampler that was handed out last year at ProgPower USA and it rocks.)
-Motorhead's 30th anniversary DVD, STAGE FRIGHT, came out last month
on SPV. The band is working on a new album but will pay four west
coast shows next month:
3/7 - House Of Blues, Los Angeles, CA
3/9 - House Of Blues, San Diego, CA
3/10 - House Of Blues, Anaheim, CA
3/11 - House Of Blues, Las Vegas, NV
See
http://www.imotorhead.com/ for more.
-Stephen Pearcy's FUELER will be released March 7 in Europe by Perris
Records, with four "brand new studio bonus tracks not found on the US
release." Full track list: "Overdrive," "Kill Kitty," "That Sick
Thing," "Godsmack," "Drive With Me," "Spy Vs. Spy," "Young And The
Damned/King," "Dream Machine," "Gamblers & Thieves," "Sinomatic,"
"Novocain" (bonus track), "Red Licorice" (bonus track), "Wide Open"
(bonus track), "Under World" (bonus track). A spring European tour is
being planned, but in the meantime Pearcy is touring the US with Bang
Tango and Pretty Boy Floyd. Remaining dates:
2/24 - Goodfella's, Pottsville, PA
2/25 - Steel Music Hall, Rochester, NY (Stephen Pearcy only)
2/26 - Northern Lights, Clifton Park, NY
3/2 - Amos' Southend, Charlotte, NC
3/3 - Doc's Place-Bike Week, Deland, FL
3/4 - The State Theater, St. Petersburg, FL
3/5 - The Sky Bar, Auburn, AL
3/6 - TAC Live, Dallas, TX
3/8 - Stampede, El Paso, TX
3/9 - Tilted Kilt, Tempe, AZ
3/10 - Empire Ballroom, Las Vegas, NV
3/12 - Brick By Brick, San Diego, CA
See
http://www.perrisrecords.com/ for more.
-Proposed Queensryche tour dates:
8/25 - 8/26 - House Of Blues, Lake Buena Vista, FL
9/3 - House Of Blues, Myrtle Beach, SC
9/6 - Uptown Theater, Kansas City, MO
9/14 - 9/16 - House Of Blues, Chicago, IL
9/21 - 9/22 - Nokia Live, New York, NY
9/25 - Majestic, San Antonio, TX
9/26 - Verizon Theater, Houston, TX
9/27 - Nokia Live, Dallas, TX
9/29 - Filmore, Denver, CO
10/3 - Dodge Theatre, Phoenix, AZ
10/4 - Humphrey's, San Diego, CA
10/5 - Gibson Amthitheatre, Los Angeles, CA
10/11 - Warfield, San Francisco, CA
10/12 - Roseland, Portland, OR
10/13 - 10/14 - Moore Theater, Seattle, WA
See
http://www.queensryche.com/ for more.
-Joe Satriani's newie, SUPER COLOSSAL, is due out March 14. Check out
Joe's official Web site for all the details:
http://www.satriani.com/
.
-Jeff Scott Soto's JSS - THE ESSENTIAL BALLADS is due out this spring
from Frontiers Records. Track list: "If This Is The End," "As I Do 2
U," "Holding On," "Send Her My Love," "Lonely Shade Of Blue," "This
Ain't The Love," "Don't Wanna Say Goodbye," "4U," "Still Be Loving U,"
"Till The End Of Time," "Sacred Eyes," "By Your Side," "Beginning 2
End," "Through It All," "Last Mistake," "Another Try." See
http://www.jeffscottsoto.com/ and
http://www.frontiers.it/ for more.
In related news, Soto and Marcel Jacob are working on a new Talisman
album tentatively called BAR; check out Soto's site and
http://www.marceljacob.com/ for more.
-Superpercado (a.k.a. $upermer¢ado) will do an in-store at the Tower
Records at 2301 N. Clark in Chicago, IL, on March 10. The band's
debut, SCARY BABY, is out now on Dark Star Records. See
http://www.supermercadorock.com and
http://www.darkstarrecords.com/
for more.
-Sweet Cheater's EATIN' AIN'T CHEATIN' is out now on Perris Records.
Hype has the album "in the vein of Def Leppard, Kix and Tesla." The
band is from "back in the day" but has reformed. Track list: "All
Fired Up" "Summer," "One Love," "Money's Tough," "It's Our Love,"
"Dancin' On My Grave," "Holding Out On Love," "I've Got You,",
"Romina," "Subway Train." See
http://www.perrisrecords.com/ for more,
including MP3 samples.
-Upcoming John Taglieri tour dates:
3/1 – Grasshopper Off The Green, Morristown, NJ
3/2 – Little John's Pub, Allentown, PA
3/3 – Zig's Bar, Alexandria, VA
3/4 - The Stage House, Scotch Plains, NJ
3/9 – Oliver Shakewells, Allentown, PA
3/10 – Café Arabica, Morristown, NJ (Full Band Show!!!)
3/11 – Kenny's Castaways, New York, NY (Playing bass for Josh Rifkin!)
3/16 – Little John's Pub, Allentown, PA
3/21 – Maxwells, Hoboken, NJ
3/22 – Stacatto's, Washington, D.C.
3/23 – House Of Blue @ Old Dominion Univ, Norfolk, VA(tentative)
3/24 – Jammin' Java, Columbia, SC
3/25 – 315, Salisbury, NC
3/27 - TBA
3/28 – Raymond Walters College, Cincinnati, OH
3/31 – The Stage House, Scotch Plains, NJ
See
http://JohnTaglieri.com/ ,
http://myspace.com/johntaglierimusic ,
or
http://sonicbids.com/johntaglieri for more.
-Theatre Of Tragedy has targeted March 24th /March 27 (Germany/Europe)
for release of their new CD entitled STORM. Check out
http://www.theatreoftragedy.com/ for all of the details.
-Upcoming TNT live dates:
3/22 - Razzmatazz II, Barcelona, Spain
3/24 - Cafe Antzokia, Bilbao, Spain
3/25 - Divino Aqualung, Madrid, Spain
See
http://www.tnttheband.com/ ,
http://www.myspace.com/tntonline ,
and
http://www.myspace.com/tonyharnellonline for more.
-Napalm Records has signed TYR, from the Faroe Islands. ERIC THE RED,
described as "a stirring Viking Metal album," will be released April
25 with two bonus tracks.
-Vanden Plas' CHRIST.0 is due out March 31 (Europe) and April 3 (North
America). See
http://www.vandenplas.de/ for sound samples.
-Danny Vaughn (Vaughn, Tyketto, From The Inside) has a new MySpace
page at
http://www.myspace.com/vaughnband . He's currently working on
a new Vaughn album.
Thanks to Bill "I'm American" Kotowski, Nathan Birk, Tara Buzzell,
BASTI, Mika Botfeldt, Eric Corbin, Kevin Scurlock, and Tom Mathers for
help gathering some of this information.
*
*** REVIEWS ***
*
HELSTAR - BURNING ALIVE (DVD) (B+) Perris Records, 2005
RT: 46:53
[
http://www.myspace.com/helstar ]
[
http://www.jamesrivera.com/ ]
[
http://www.perrisrecords.com/ ]
Traditional metal legends Helstar reformed in 2001 to play Germany's
Bang Your Head!!! Festival and fortunately for us longtime fans the
show was videotaped, finally seeing the light of day on this nine-song
DVD. Opening in fine form with "Evil Reign" from REMNANTS OF WAR, the
performance is uniformly excellent throughout, with James Rivera's
powerful vocals igniting all the expected classics such as "The King
Is Dead," "Dracula's Castle," "Angel Of Death," and "Run With The
Pack." Guitarists Joel Gregoire (Stride) and Eric Halpern (Z-Lot-Z,
Distant Thunder) tear through the riffs and solos with blinding speed
and do a good job recreating the magic of former players such as Larry
Barragan and Andre Corbin, while bassist Jerry Abarca and drummer
Russel DeLeon maintain an incredibly tight and driving rhythm section.
Full marks for the performance, but I must subtract some points for
the video; although pro-shot, some of the camera angles are a bit
choppy, giving the video a somewhat amateurish feel. Sound quality is
good although some of the lead guitar solos are a bit too low in the
mix. The concert was shot outdoors during the afternoon so there is
not much in the way of stage dynamics, only some minimal lighting and
dry ice to spice up the visual aspect of the show. I believe Helstar
would come across better in a darkened club setting where lighting
could be used more dramatically. Finally, there are no extras such as
bonus videos or interviews, just performance footage. Ultimately
though, what you have is an excellent representation of a band who
should have been much bigger -- a rare chance to witness a truly
original and talented group. Essential for Helstar fans, BURNING ALIVE
is also recommended for anyone into traditional melodic power metal.
Note: the DVD is in PAL format, so make sure you have a DVD-ROM
equipped computer or DVD player with PAL capability. - Neal Woodall
(
MysticX9@...)
STEVE HOWE - HOMEBREW 3 (C+) Inside Out Music, 2005
21 tracks, RT: 59:40
[
http://www.stevehowe.com/ ]
[
http://www.insideoutmusic.com/ ]
[
info@... ]
In addition to his solo album SPECTRUM and live DVD REMEDY, 2005 also
saw the release of HOMEBREW 3, a collection of demo tracks culled from
Yes, GTR and Steve's various solo projects. The CD opens up pleasantly
enough with three melodic and relaxing pieces in "Turbulence," "Hint
Hint," and "The Main Title," with Steve displaying his skill at
composing majestic themes with flowing guitar. Things take a downward
turn, however, on "Just A Passing Phase," a low energy Beach Boys
flavored piece complete with vocals that should have never been
included. This problematic trend continues on several more pieces,
especially bad on "Kind Of Friends" and "Between Your Smiles." The
frequent use of the drum machine is also a distraction, but you have
to keep in mind these are bare-boned sketches of songs that eventually
made it onto albums in completed form. So the vocal tracks are
disappointing, but better are the instrumentals, highlights being the
acoustic gem "In The Course Of The Day," the short but infectious
"Cruise Control," the optimistic-sounding but ironically-named "It's
Too Late," and the heavy guitar interludes of "Reaching Out." Many of
the pieces are very short and there is nothing here that I would call
incredible, but if you are a hardcore Yes and/or Steve Howe fan this
would make an interesting addition to your collection. - Neal Woodall
(
MysticX9@...)
LARS ERIC MATTSSON - EARTHBOUND (B) Lion Music, 2005
10 tracks, RT: 43:33
[
http://www.larsericmattsson.com/ ]
[
http://www.larsericmattsson.com/ ]
[
http://www.lionmusic.com/lars_earthbound.htm ]
[
http://www.lionmusic.com/ ]
After only 14 short years (!), Lars Eric Mattsson presents his second
all-instrumental album EARTHBOUND. For those not familiar with Mr.
Mattsson, imagine if Jimi Hendrix and Uli Jon Roth got together with
Mike Varney for a Shrapnel-styled shred album and you get an idea of
the music found on EARTHBOUND. Many times what seems to be lacking on
shred albums is well constructed rhythms, and this is one of the areas
where Lars excels. Take for example the title track, a wonderfully
heavy groove-oriented piece spiced with virtuosic intervallic runs and
emotionally satisfying melodic themes. There is also a good bit of
variety on the album, from the Hendrixy "Time Capsule" and the Indian
flavored "Delhi" to the fleet fingered lead excursions of "ShredHead"
and the heavy funk of "Closed Eyes." A few relaxed ballads complete
the material, allowing the ears to recover from the note density. Lars
has a tone and vibrato that takes some getting used to, but his
playing is unique and enjoyable once you've spent some time listening.
Probably not for those looking for the next modern super-shredder,
Lars will appeal more to those with an ear for classic heavy rock
guitar delivered in turbocharged fashion. - Neal Woodall
(
MysticX9@...)
*
*** OUT ***
*
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