Detritus
Issue #429
Week of October 22, 2007
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*** CAST OF CHARACTERS ***
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Patrick Brower, Editor
patrickbrower@...

Sean P. Gahgan, Editor
lof@...
http://www.lakeoffire.net/

Tim Wadzinski, Owner
tsw512@...

Steve Shumake, Co-owner
vongoober@...
http://www.myspace.com/kdsteve

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*** LET IT BE KNOWN ***
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-Happy Friday, gotta go! :) - Tim

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-Terry Ilous Of XYZ News

Icon horror movie director Dave Sterling will be directing Terry
Ilous' new video for song "Got To Believe" off the new CD HERE AND
GONE.

Yahoo! Music and MSN Music, among many other sites like MySpaceTV,
YouTube, etc., will air the video clip.

Terry will be touring under the name XYZ's Terry Ilous from early
November to mid-December.

The new CD is doing very well.

"Those songs were recorded recently and some over the years with the
help of members and former members of AC/DC, The Steve Miller Band,
Bowie, Rod Stewart, Black Sabbath, Dokken, The Firm, XYZ and so many
more...."
- Terry Ilous

Please click on the link below to see the CD cover and read bout it.
You can also go to MySpace to hear a sample of the songs at
http://www.myspace.com/xyz .

Hope to see you on the road...

http://www.xyzmusic.com/hereandgonecd.html

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-Lizzy Borden Finish Filming New Video!

The video for "Tomorrow Never Comes," which was shot on location in
downtown Los Angeles the weekend of September 29th with director Kevin
McVey, is described as "a haunted little tale."

This will be the first video from the band's forthcoming album,
APPOINTMENT WITH DEATH, due on November 5th (Europe) via Metal Blade
Records. Appearing in the clip are band members Lizzy Borden, Joey
Scott, Marten Andersson and Ira Black.

http://www.lizzyborden.com/

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-Legendary Guitarist Slash Tells All In New Book Due Out October 30th

"From one of the greatest rock guitarists of our era comes a memoir
that redefines sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll"

Bet that got your attention right? A statement like that could only be
in reference to one person, current Velvet Revolver/ex-Guns N' Roses
guitarist Slash. On October 30th Harper Collins will release "Slash,"
an autobiography written by Slash himself along with Anthony Bozza
(who also helped write Tommy Lee's book "Tommyland"). The book is an
intensely personal account of struggle and triumph, filled with
stories of women, drugs, lawsuits, rehab, riots, and all sorts of
debauchery.

A big part of the book is that for the first time, Slash tells the
tale that has yet to be told from the inside of Guns N' Roses: how the
band came together, how they wrote the music that defined an era, how
they survived insane, never-ending tours, how they survived
themselves, and, ultimately, how it all fell apart.

"Slash" is a book that is sure to swirl up controversy with its
brutally honest stories straight from Slash himself. Readers can find
more info on the book, including a pre-order link here:

http://www.harpercollins.com/books/9780061351426/Slash/index.aspx

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-Lordi Update

Finland's monster rock n' roll band Lordi and The End Records have
teamed up with newly-launched online music media company WoozyFly.com
to host a 24-hour extravaganza online on Halloween (October 31, 2007).
The 24-hour marathon will be streaming on WoozyFly.com and will
feature interviews with Lordi, videos from Lordi and a live concert of
the band, to be filmed in its entirety at The Fillmore in New York
City on October 29th, 2007.

The band, who triumphantly rocked this year's Ozzfest 2007 across
North America, are currently on tour as direct support for Type O
Negative. The band released its album THE AROCKALYPSE in North America
on March 20, 2007 via The End Records.

Also, the 14th annual 2007 MTV Europe Music Awards -- being held
November 1st, 2007 at Munich's OlympiaHalle -- have opened the voting
floor for the first time to the public in nine categories: Rock Out,
Ultimate Urban, Solo, Band, Most Addictive, Headliner, Album, Inter
and New Sounds of Europe. Now fans will now get the chance to vote for
their favourite artist to become one of the Top 5 nominees on the
night. Click on the link and choose a category:
http://ema.mtv.co.uk/voteNow

http://www.lordi.org/

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-Lizzy Borden/George Lynch Bassist Embarks On A Journey With Toontrack
Software Maker

Los Angeles -- Marten Andersson, bassist for Lizzy Borden/George Lynch
(Starwood, ex-Legacy), is honored to announce his involvement with
Toontrack of Sweden. "Toontrack has created an elite yet affordable
drum software which allows your creative ability to take priority, and
put an end to useless hours getting sidetracked on computer
engineering," says Marten. "Imagine having access to some of the best
drummers in the world, playing the best drums available with the best
possible sound 24 hours a day. Toontrack software is the only tool
you'll need to produce pro sounding drum and percussion tracks! I
can't wait to use it in the studio, in addition to any bass clinics
and other co-promotional activities promoting this partnership."

"We are equally excited to be working with Marten," says Toontrack
Head of marketing Andreas Sundgren. "He is a talented musician who has
shown his versatility not only through his different styles of music,
but through authoring of music books and other ventures. It's a win-
win situation and a perfect match."

Toontrack is a world leading developer and innovator in the Drum
editing software industry. DFH EZdrummer & DFH Superior are multi-
microphone software drum sampler designed for musicians and producers
in need of a compact, affordable, easy to handle plug-in without
compromising sound quality or control. The extensive drag and drop
midi-library (featuring 8000+ midifiles) enables users to create a
great drum track in just a few clicks.

For more information, visit Toontrack at http://www.toontrack.com/ or
http://www.marten.cc/ .

Lizzy Borden will release their new CD entitled APPOINTMENT WITH DEATH
on October 30th in the U.S. and November 2nd in Europe on Metal Blade
Records. Marten recently finished his fifth tour with guitarist George
Lynch's Lynch Mob.

Web sites:

http://www.marten.cc/
http://www.toontrack.com/
http://www.myspace.com/martenandersson
http://www.myspace.com/lizzybordenband
http://www.lizzyborden.com/
http://www.georgelynch.com/

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-Glass Hammer Release To Feature Jon Anderson

CULTURE OF ASCENT will be released on October 23rd, but the band's Web
site is taking pre-orders for autographed copies now. Expect 69
minutes of audiophile mastering by the legendary Bob Katz, and a digi-
pak with new art by Michal Karcz.

Babb, Schendel and company return with their tenth studio release, two
new contributing artists, and performances by none-other-than Yes co-
founder Jon Anderson. As to how they came to work with Jon, Steve Babb
explains: "Jon has been sharing musical ideas with us for a couple of
years now, and we've kept very quiet about it all. Lucky for us, the
first things to come from this exchange will be on our new album! Of
course, we're just as happy about Carl Groves (Salem Hill) joining for
this album." Also joining the lineup is French guitar virtuoso David
Wallimann. "Carl and David have actually been working with us since
before the Belmont DVD was filmed two years ago, but CULTURE OF ASCENT
is their first studio work with GH. They have both contributed a lot
of their own ideas to the project, even lyrics." Also returning is
vocalist Susie Bogdanowicz, drummer Matt Mendians, and The Adonia
String Trio.

"This album takes the band in a new direction as far as we're
concerned. We steered away from our retro-roots somewhat, and went for
an edgier, contemporary style of prog. As always, it's about making
the music that we like best. CULTURE represents where we want to be
right now, musically and lyrically."

And what about the lyrics? Is CULTURE OF ASCENT a concept album?
"Yes," says Babb. "This album is about Mt. Everest, mountain-climbing,
danger, risk-taking, longing, and a host of related ideas."

The band's Web site is now accepting pre-orders for the October 23rd
release. The Web site also offers an exclusive special edition CD
release of THE COMPILATIONS (formerly only available on iTunes) with a
new bonus track.

http://www.glasshammer.com/

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-Lana Lane Green Lights RED PLANET BOULEVARD

New masterwork from the voice of symphonic rock weds past legacy with
new visions

EL DORADO HILLS, CA -- Symphonic rock icon Lana Lane proudly announces
her new studio album RED PLANET BOULEVARD. The new album follows
Lana's 2005 art rock masterpiece LADY MACBETH, and her highly
acclaimed 2006 classic rock covers album GEMINI. RED PLANET BOULEVARD
is a melodic rock album that showcases Lana's legendary vocals with
timeless songwriting all produced in a modern symphonic rock
environment. The atmosphere of the album is both spacious and grand,
soaring melodies and intimate phrases play against lush arrangements
of guitar and keyboards, all intertwining in a compelling tango of
orchestration that is pure Lana Lane.

Recorded in The Netherlands and in San Francisco, California, RED
PLANET BOULEVARD combines the feeling of European precision and old
world mystery with the Bay Area's legendary style and mood that is
pure Northern California magic. The melange of locations shows in the
album's production that is both bombastic and moody, clear and heavy,
intimate and extroverted. Producer / keyboardist Erik Norlander took
on bass guitar duties as well for this release continuing in the role
he played on the 2007 LADY MACBETH tour. Long time collaborators,
Dutchmen Peer Verschuren (guitar) and Ernst Van Ee (drums), complete
the instrumental trio in what Norlander calls "a sort of 'Led
Zeppelin' instrumentation where we have guitar, drums and a bass
playing keyboardist."

The RED PLANET BOULEVARD musician lineup is indeed the most compact to
appear on a Lana Lane album, but the trio does not falter in creating
the massive symphonic rock sound for which Lana Lane is so well known.
Walls of guitars, landscapes of keyboards and tectonic plates of bass
and drums drive the arrangements with the energy and exuberance of a
band that indeed went straight from the road into the studio. That
touring seasoning shows in the subtle complexities of RED PLANET
BOULEVARD. This is a band that is experienced and skilled in their
craft all supporting a legendary vocalist who is at the top of her
game.

Twelve all original songs compose RED PLANET BOULEVARD. The heavy
rockers "Into The Fire," "Capture The Sun" and "Angels And Magicians"
along with the power ballad "Jessica" harken back to Lana's 1995 debut
release, LOVE IS AN ILLUSION, while in contrast, the anthemic "Shine,"
"The Frozen Sea" and "No Tears Left" have a distinctly 21st century
sound that fits perfectly with today's iPod generation. The uptempo
"Stepford, USA" re-tells the story of the quiet rural town with a dark
secret, while "The Sheltering Sorrow" is a heart wrenching ballad that
is epic in scale with links back to the late '60s majesty of early
symphonic rock. The album concludes with the finale and title track,
"Red Planet Boulevard," where themes from each of the album's songs is
reprised in a grand orchestral rock style.

Artwork is once again provided by Polish surrealist Jacek Yerka who
has painted the covers for Lana's many past masterworks. Photos for
the album were shot by noted San Francisco photographer Mark Leialoha
who brings his own style and vision to the Lana Lane production team.
Fans of melodic rock, symphonic style and the amazing female rock
voice, your light is green: Make the turn onto RED PLANET BOULEVARD!

Lana Lane - RED PLANET BOULEVARD musicians:

LANA LANE - lead and harmony vocals
ERIK NORLANDER - keyboards, bass guitar
PEER VERSCHUREN - guitars
ERNST VAN EE - drums

Produced by Erik Norlander for Think Tank Media, U.S.A.

Lana Lane - RED PLANET BOULEVARD track list:

1. Into the Fire [5:10] (Norlander)
2. The Frozen Sea [5:05] (Lane)
3. Capture the Sun [7:23] (Norlander)
4. Jessica [6:00] (Lane / Norlander)
5. Stepford, USA [4:04] (Lane)
6. Shine [4:29] (Lane)
7. Lazy Summer Day [5:43] (Lane)
8. No Tears Left [5:32] (Lane)
9. Save the World [6:20] (Lane / Norlander)
10. Angels and Magicians [6:01] (Norlander)
11. The Sheltering Sorrow [4:48] (Lane / Norlander)
12. Red Planet Boulevard [7:56] (Lane / Norlander)

total running time ... 68:57

Release dates:

Japan - November 23, 2007 on the Avalon label
Europe - December 12, 2007 on Frontiers Records
North America - January 29, 2008 on Think Tank Media distributed by
ProgRock Records with advance sales beginning in December 2007

All versions contain the identical track listing -- there are no bonus
tracks on any edition.

http://www.thetank.com/
http//www.lanalane.com/
http//www.progrockrecords.com/

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-Radiant Records Updates

[Note: This is a compilation of sever newsletters. - Tim]

New Jordan Rudess And Flower Kings At Radiant!

I've heard flattery will get you everywhere...well, I don't know about
that, but I'm hoping it will get you to check out these new killer CDs
that just came in! We've got a couple of powerhouses here folks!

Here's the info:

Jordan Rudess – THE ROAD HOME

Dream Theater's keyboard player and, without argument, rock's premier
keyboardist. Jordan has been influenced by classic progressive acts
such as Genesis, Yes and Gentle Giant and ELP. On THE ROAD HOME, he
revisits some of the great songs from those bands with his own special
Jordan Rudess touch. Special guests appearing are: Steven Wilson
(Porcupine Tree) Neal Morse (Spock's Beard) Ed Wynne (Ozric
Tentacles), Kip Winger (Winger), Rod Morgenstein (Winger), Bumblefoot
(Guns N' Roses), Marco Sfogli (James LaBrie), Nick D'Virgilio (Spock's
Beard), Ricky Garcia (Lafee).

Track List:

1. Dance On A Volcano
2. Sound Chaser
3. Just The Same
4. JR Piano Medley
5. Piece Of The Pi
6. Tarkus

Comes in a very cool looking brightly colored digi-pack! Neal Morse's
vocal on The Genesis classic "Dance On A Volcano" is worth this one
alone! But, I have to say that, I'm his wife!

The Flower Kings – THE SUM OF NO EVIL (Special Edition)

First a brief note on the album title and its slightly unusual
history, because initially, the new Flower Kings opus was to be
entitled simply LOVE. Main composer and producer Roine Stolt says...
"I intended to call the recording just LOVE until I read with a
surprise that The Beatles were releasing a new album with that title,
so I guess the universe wasn't big for that much 'love' in one year.
So by twisting the idea a bit, I came up with the alternative title
THE SUM OF NO EVIL, which sort of equals "Love." It also gave us a
great platform for using some of Ed Unitsky's surreal art for the
cover, that 'fish-bus' is funny and in tune with the hippie and flower
power vibe but yet a bit of surreal Monty Python style too. There are
way too many dark serious melodramatic bands out there, we wanted to
be the colourful, friendly alternative."

Their latest album, THE SUM OF NO EVIL, is a perfect example of a
timeless prog rock release that easily lives up to classics such as
LAMB LIES DOWN ON BROADWAY or YESSONGS. Stolt refers to the album as
"Flower Kings to the max," explaining: "We wanted to make a real
hardcore symphonic rock and prog album. We took away all the pop, the
jazz and the experimental or ambient stuff and concentrated on the
pure prog that we do best." An apt description of the almost 75 (!)
minutes of playing time and the six expansive tracks. "To make all
this a real trip for the prog rock fan we have worked in a studio that
specializes on '60s & '70s vintage recording equipment, plus we used
lots of real vintage analogue keyboards, Hammond organ, Wurlitzer,
Rhodes and grand pianos plus lots of Mini Moog and old tube amplifiers
for the guitars," says Stolt.

"Any fan of early '70s prog up until the first UK album should love
this album," The Flower Kings mastermind reckons of the effective
depth of THE SUM OF NO EVIL.

We only have the special edition which is in a deluxe massive digi-
book and contains an extra disc with all kinds o' flowery madness.
Video footage from in the studio as well as tons of incredible music.

We've got 'em in stock at http://www.radiantrecords.com/ .

New DVD From Radiant!

The Tangent – GOING OFF ON ONE

With the already existing three studio albums, The Tangent have proved
that even today you can still pull a dedicated fanbase with classic
progressive rock. The fact that The Tangent are also an excellent live
band is demonstrated in a very special manner on their first DVD,
GOING OFF ON ONE.

Recorded in a relaxed atmosphere at a club in the U.K., this DVD shows
how much fun prog live shows can be and of course, what essential role
the synthesiser in this genre plays -- front man and keyboardist Andy
Tillison is a master of his trade, who simply knows how to tease out
goose bumps sounds of an old analogue gem.

If you like The Tangent's studio albums you are going to LOVE this
DVD! We've got 'em in stock and ready to ship.

On sale now at: http://www.radiantrecords.com/

New Stuff From Radiant!

Neal Morse - ? LIVE

Neal Morse is known for many things. As founder of both Spock's Beard
and Transatlantic, he is known for his amazing talents on the
keyboards and guitars as well as being the main vocalist and
songwriter. However, he is also known as one of the world's great
front men and his live shows have reached legendary status. So, then,
why have there been no live albums since his departure from the
aforementioned bands? Well, only Mr. Morse knows the answer to that
question; all we can say about this new live album, his first official
live album as a solo artist, is "it's about time!"

This live album is stellar in its quality of musicianship and
performances. Unbelievable melodies, ripping riffs and brilliant
composition are laced throughout this album that captures the audience
and their excitement as well as the impeccable musicianship that
Morse's fans have come to expect. Joined by some of the best musicians
in Europe, Neal lays down more than two hours of his best work! This
is a shockingly good live album. Check out this track listing:

https://www.radiantrecords.com/rr_blurb.asp?key=257

Spock's Beard – SNOW Special Edition two-CD set with Bonus Tracks!

This is Spock's Beard's last album with Neal Morse and some say it is
their best. SNOW is the only concept album the Beard ever made and is
considered to be among the prog world's great classic albums. This
version comes in a deluxe package and contains three original demos
including "The Overture" and "Wind At My Back."

Spock's Beard – V Special Edition with Bonus Track

This is Spock's Beard's fifth studio album and among their best. Neal
Morse has said that this is his personal favorite. Featuring the 27
minute long classic "The Great Nothing" along with Beard favorites
like "Thoughts Part 2" and "At The End Of The Day," this is an
absolute essential for all fans of the bearded ones. This version
comes in a deluxe package and contains the original demo of "At The
End Of The Day."

Spock's Beard – DAY FOR NIGHT Special Edition with Bonus Tracks

What can be said about this landmark release? Breathtaking
performances and killer compositions are the order of the day on DAY
FOR NIGHT. This was the first CD that the band recorded under the eye
of master mixer Rich Mouser and you can hear it in every detail.
Tracks include "Gibberish," "Distance To The Sun" and the "Healing
Colors Of Sound." This version comes in a deluxe package and contains
the original demos of "Gibberish" and "Day For Night."

The official release dates for these CDs is October 30. Pre-order now
and you will receive them before the release date!

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

On a whole different note:

I have started my own online travel service!

I hope this doesn't sound too weird, but, since I book travel for lots
of friends, relatives and all of our stuff, I talked Neal into
becoming our own travel agency.

I won't bore you about all the details but, in case you are
interested, our prices are very competitive and 70% of the time we
will beat the big guys! We named it Radiant World Travel, but when we
did a Web search on it several strange sites showed up, so make sure
you save this link:

http://www.ytb.com/radiantworldtravel

Check it out and book your travel with Radiant! Airline tickets,
rental cars, hotel rooms, even cruises, it's all on there! I am hoping
this will make it possible for Neal to come play his music for more
people in more places. Thank you for supporting us!

Neal Morse News From Radiant!

We are coming to Europe again! Neal Morse is visiting many churches
across the continent to share his music and passion for God. Come and
share in these powerful intimate evenings with us. Here are the dates:

Friday Oct. 26 and Saturday Oct. 27 in Trondheim, Norway
Tuesday Oct. 30 in Belfast, Ireland
Wednesday Oct. 31 in London, England
Thursday Nov. 1 and Friday Nov. 2 Kelsterbach Germany (Frankfurt)
Saturday Nov. 3 in Kortrijk, Belgium
Monday Nov. 5 in Leiden, The Netherlands
Tuesday Nov. 6 in Utrecht, The Netherlands
Friday Nov. 9 in Berlin, Germany
Saturday Nov. 10 and Sunday Nov. 11 Berlin, Germany
Tuesday Nov. 13 Siegen, Germany
Wednesday Nov. 14 in Wetzlar, Germany

For the details go to http://www.nealmorse.com/ and click on the
"Church Services" link. See you there!

Especially for these services, Neal has put together a new CD! For a
long time many people have suggested that Neal take his "regular
songs" (like "Cradle To The Grave" and "Wind At My Back") and make a
collection of them on one CD. He has done it and will unveil it at
these upcoming events in Europe. The new CD is titled: SING IT HIGH -
A COLLECTION OF SINGLES. Here is the track list:

1. The Change (From the Neal Morse CD IT'S NOT TOO LATE)
2. We All Need Some Light (From the Transatlantic CD SMPTE)
3. Sing It High (From the Neal Morse CD TESTIMONY)
4. Bridge Across Forever (From the Transatlantic CD BRIDGE ACROSS
FOREVER)
5. All I Ask For (From the Neal Morse CD SOLA SCRIPTURA
6. I Am Willing (From the Neal Morse CD TESTIMONY)
7. Wind At My Back (From the Neal Morse CD ? LIVE)
8. Cloudburst (From the Neal Morse CD SEND THE FIRE)
9. Oh Lord My God (From the Neal Morse CD TESTIMONY)
10. Cradle To The Grave (From the Neal Morse CD ? LIVE)
11. I Sing My Love (From the Neal Morse CD GOD WON'T GIVE UP)
12. Outside Looking In (From the Neal Morse CD ?)
13. There Is Nothin' That God Can't Change (From the Neal Morse CD
SONGS FROM THE HIGHWAY)
14. King Jesus (From the Neal Morse CD ONE (Special Edition))

New Stuff

We now have the new Spock's Beard reissue Special Editions of SNOW, V,
and DAY FOR NIGHT! Also we have the new Neal Morse ? LIVE CD ready to
ship. Order now at http://www.radiantrecords.com/ .

Inner Circle News

The next Inner Circle release is an original acoustic guitar album
called ACOUSTIC SUNRISE. It is a beautiful collection of instrumentals
centered around the acoustic guitar. Sign up by November 15 to receive
this one.

New Release From Radiant Records!

Glass Hammer - CULTURE OF ASCENT

Review
"...this is Glass Hammer's best album yet. And that is saying a lot."
--S. T. Karnick (stkarnick.com)

Featuring Guest Vocalist Jon Anderson: CULTURE OF ASCENT takes Glass
Hammer into new territory. The performances of French guitar virtuoso
David Shreddy Wallimann prove the perfect marriage for the highly
technical, prog-metal drumming of Matt Mendians; giving CULTURE OF
ASCENT a modern edginess something unusual for a band well known for
its mastery of analog gear and seventies proginess. But GH hasn't
forgotten its classic prog roots as Yes front man and Glass Hammer
collaborator Jon Anderson makes his debut performances with the band
on two of the albums tracks. CULTURE OF ASCENT's lyrics are based in
part on the best-selling Jon Krakauer novel, "Into Thin Air," which
tells first hand of the historical 1996 Mount Everest tragedy. GH
still has their optimism intact however, as their new music evokes
images of Everest's majesty as well as its many perils. The album's
six epic tracks total over sixty-nine minutes. Glass Hammer's tenth
release is a must-buy for fans, and sure to be a hit with connoisseurs
of modern progressive rock.

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

OK, we are off to Europe on Monday. Come see us! (The dates are on
http://www.nealmorse.com/ .) Just a reminder, the new Neal Morse -
SING IT HIGH CD will be available at these services. We have people
who are running the business and will ship your order while we are
gone.

Thanks for everything,

Cherie Morse
Radiant Records
http://www.radiantrecords.com/

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*** PRESS RELEASE #9 ***
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-Dirty Rig Announces New Singer

New York City/Long Island rock act Dirty Rig, once featuring front man
Kory Clarke (Warrior Soul), have decided it was best to part ways as
they couldn't see eye to eye on several important band issues. Dirty
Rig just returned home after their second U.K. tour supporting their
Escapi Music (Ryko/Warner Brothers) release titled ROCK DID IT.

"We wish Kory all the best in the world with his various projects.
Kory is a champ and a lifer in the music scene. He has spent nearly
his first 50 years rocking out and we are sure he will be rocking for
another 50 years," states the band.

Since returning from their U.K. Tour, Dirty Rig have auditioned over
60 singers and they now feel they are back to their fighting weight
with the new addition of Tom Morrissey as their front man. "We are so
f*cking excited to have Tom leading this band now. Tom can really sing
his balls off and he writes some killer melodies. Its a true
blessing," adds founding member and bassist Buckshot.

Dirty Rig is in the September 22nd issue of Classic Rock Magazine that
features the band's new singer on the magazine's CD sampler. The
magazine wanted the band to cover a song that was in a movie so the
members of the band decided to run a promotion/contest with MySpace
and let the fans determine the out come of the cover song.

"There are so many great songs out there and everyone in the band had
a different idea of what song to cover. I wanted to do something by
Waylon Jennings or AC/DC, Dave wanted to cover a Rush track, Tom
wanted to do a Cheap Trick tune and Buckshot wanted to cover
'Cockroaches' from KILLING TECHNOLOGY by Voivod even though that song
was never in a movie. So we just said let the fans on MySpace decide.
We don't know how this particular song got picked but whatever. We
said we would do what ever song was chosen and we did. We always keep
our word. If you don't keep your word, then you ain't worth squat."
recalls Chas, the band's Guitarist about the decision process.

Check out the Dirty Rig's MySpace page for the new demo version of
"Kickin' & Screamin'" and the most voted MySpace cover song of Simple
Minds' "Don't You" at http://www.myspace.com/dirtyrig .

The band has written and nearly completed recording all of their songs
to the follow-up of ROCK DID IT. Look for Dirty Rig's new release to
hit record stores in April 2008.

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*** PRESS RELEASE #10 ***
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-Rammstein Guitarist Richard Kruspe Launches New Band Project,
Emigrate, With Debut Album EMIGRATE To Appear On January 28th!

For fans of Rammstein, Richard Kruspe needs no introduction -- as one
of the two guitarists in the group, Kruspe is an integral part of
everyone's favorite flame-spewing industrial metal band. Still at work
with Rammstein after more than a decade, Kruspe recently found time to
launch a new project, Emigrate. Long in the planning stages,
Emigrate's self-titled debut will be released on January 28th, 2008 by
Pilgrim/Motor Music and distributed by ADA.

The first single, "My World," and its video are already available via
iTunes. The song features in the film "Resident Evil: Extinction," the
final part of the trilogy, which has recently premiered world-wide.
The video -- "My World 'Resident Evil: Extinction' Videomix" --
contains a hard-pounding performance by Emigrate combined with
original film material highlighting Milla Jovowich.

"My World 'Resident Evil: Extinction' Videomix" can be seen here:
http://www.emigrate.eu/Video

The video for the album's second single, "New York City," was shot in
New York and appears online in preview on the official Emigrate Web
page:
http://www.emigrate.eu/Video

For those concerned that Kruspe would take off on a musical detour
with Emigrate, rest easy. Kruspe lined up longtime Rammstein producer/
mixer Jacob Hellner and Stefan Glauman, resulting in an album that
retains some of the same elements as Rammstein while also coming
across as pleasingly its own. And to answer a question sure to be on
the mind of Rammstein fans everywhere -- no, Kruspe is not leaving the
group. Rammstein have currently gathered in Berlin to write a new
album.

Rounding out the Emigrate lineup is Arnaud Giraux (bass), Henka
Johansson (drums), Sascha Moser (Logic programs editor), and Olsen
Involtini (guitar & vocal producer), with Kruspe as expected handling
guitar duties and unexpectedly supplying lead vocals (his first lead-
vocal appearance on record). Recently speaking with acclaimed U.K.
music critic Dante Bonutto, Kruspe gave his thoughts about the
project. "At one point, I was asking myself, 'Does the world really
need my record?'" But the answer to that question soon became obvious:
Richard needed, and needs, this record for the sake of his health. "I
HAD to do it, simple as that!"

The complete track listing for EMIGRATE:

1. EMIGRATE
2. WAKE UP
3. MY WORLD
4. LET ME BREAK
5. IN MY TEARS
6. BABE
7. NEW YORK CITY
8. RESOLUTION
9. TEMPTATION
10. THIS IS WHAT
11. YOU CAN'T GET ENOUGH

For more information, go to:
http://www.emigrate.eu/

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #11 ***
*
-Hirax Update

Hirax To Co-Headline Keep It True IX

CHAOS AND BRUTALITY EP Released In Europe

Mexico Dates

TRENTON -- Hirax will co-headline Keep It True IX festival on
Saturday, November 3, 2007 in Dittigheim, Germany.

Hirax will share the headliner slot with the original lineup of
Leatherwolf. Sacred Oath, Pagan Altar, Steel Assassin, Portrait, and
Enforcer will round out the day of metal.

The California thrashers played two successful shows last month in
Germany and France with new second lead guitarist Tim Thomas, formerly
of Steel Prophet and Agent Steel, as well as returning drummer
Fabricio Ravelli.

"The festival's promoter contacted us and offered Hirax the co-
headlining slot," said Katon W. De Pena. "Needless to say, we're
honored to do it because Keep It True is one of the MOST respected
festivals in Europe. The opportunity to play in front of the German
headbangers once again is something we take very seriously. They are
truly DIEHARD! There is NO PLACE ON EARTH like Germany. HEAVY METAL IS
THE LAW!!!"

Hirax's new EP, CHAOS AND BRUTALITY, was just released throughout
Europe on Poland's Selfmadegod Records. The four-song EP was recorded
in February 2007 at Shiva Industries in California. It includes the
title track along with a re-recorded version of "Walk With Death" from
the band's 2001 EP BARRAGE OF NOISE, the instrumental "100,000 Strong"
and "Lucifer's Infierno Reprise," an arrangement which Hirax recently
revamped and plays live.

Selfmadegod Records will also release THRASH METAL WARRIORS, a
compilation conceived by De Pena. The thrash metal compilation
features the Hirax track "Chaos And Brutality" as well as Toxic
Holocaust, Sabbat, Kat, Slaver, Strike Master, Execution, and Hatchet.

The ASSASSINS OF WAR CD/12" vinyl is now released in five countries:
Holland, Poland, Brazil, Mexico, and the U.S. and is available
worldwide through all major distributors including Century Media,
Relapse, Ebullition, and The End Records.

Hirax will return to their favorite stomping grounds of Mexico for
three dates: November 30 to December 2. There will also be a meet and
greet with the band at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 1 at El Chopo
indoor metal market, the biggest one in Mexico City.

Hirax is currently writing and rehearsing new material for a full-
length album titled EL ROSTRO DE LA MUERTE / THE FACE OF DEATH. The
album's cover will feature artwork by Ed Repka, the undisputed king of
thrash metal art.

A 10-country European tour is also in the works for May 2008,
including a headlining appearance at Long Live Metal!!! Festival
Chaptire 2 in Wattrelos, France.

Hirax Tour Dates

GERMANY
11/3/07 Sat. - Keep It True IX – Sporthalle, Dittigheim

MEXICO
11/30/07 Fri. - Bar Bulldozer, Ciudad Neza
12/01/07 Sat. - 1:00 p.m. Meet and Greet at El Chopo metal market,
Mexico City
12/01/07 Sat. - Circo Volador, Mexico, D.F.
12/02/07 Sun. - Brutal Massacre Fest 3 - Monterrey, Nuevo Leon

FRANCE
05/10/08 Sat. - La Boite ŕ Musique, Wattrelos

http://www.hirax.org/
http://www.selfmadegod.com/
http://www.keep-it-true.de/

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #12 ***
*
-Finnish Guitarist Joined Of The Archaengel

After long months Of The Archaengel announced their new lineup and
welcome a new guitarist, Timo Kaarkoski. Timo, who was born in
Helsinki (Finland) now officially has the position of guitarist, which
was left by Alex Rodrigues, who will be in charge of the band's vocals
on live performances.

Timo comments: "For me it was a great surprise to find a band making
the kind of sound which Of The Archaengel does, and the most
unexpectable thing is that I discovered it through a Finnish fan of
them, and when I knew that there was an opportunity to join the band I
immediately got interested and now we are here to rock on!"

With this change Of The Archaengel's lineup is now formed by:

- Alex Rodrigues - Vocals
- Timo Kaarkoski - Lead Guitars
- Paulo Moura - Guitars / Keyboards
- Lucas Barone - Bass
- Pedro Alzaga - Drums

Of The Archaengel is formed from the ashes of Lethal Curse band, which
began the activities in 1992. Samples of the band's work are available
on MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/ofthearchaengel .

Of The Archaengel
http://www.ofthearchaengel.com/
http://www.myspace.com/ofthearchaengel

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #13 ***
*
-KnuckleBonz Announces New Dimebag Darrell Limited Edition Figure

Music Collectible Depicts the Late Guitar Icon From the FAR BEYOND
DRIVEN Era with his Tobacco Dean Guitar.

HOLLYWOOD -- KnuckleBonz® announced they are finalizing production on
a second limited edition sculpture of "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott. The
figure is fully licensed with Getcha Pull, Inc. the licensing arm
which represents Rita Haney-Abbott and the Dimebag Darrell Estate.

"We were all very proud over here in the Dimebag family to learn that
KnuckleBonz would be busting out another brilliant piece in the Dime
collection," explains Rita Haney-Abbott. "They did such an amazing job
in capturing the persona of such an all out, guns blazing, Texas
tornado, known to many, as the one and only Dimebag!"

"Watching Dime onstage was always such a one on one experience,"
describes Haney-Abbott. "He had a way of reaching you no matter where
you were located in the crowd. Dime's trademark squeals and gut
wrenching power grooves captured you as he had the magic! After
playing his heart out, drenched with sweat, he'd stand there
breathless and raise those arms. The crowd would just erupt so
thunderously. Dime has the most amazing fans; those were amazing
moments and I think KnuckleBonz has captured that image with this
second sculpture! When I look at it I can almost hear the crowd."

The Dimebag II figure stands 9" tall on top a wooden display base.
Dime is featured with his iconic tobacco Dean® guitar. He is shown in
his signature cammo shorts and is shirtless to display his all his
tattoos work. This second sculpture captures Dime during his FAR
BEYOND DRIVEN era. The sculpture comes with a certificate of
authenticity and is hand-numbered. Each sculpture is hand-painted and
is a limited edition collectible. Only 3,000 are created.

The first Dimebag Darrell limited edition sculpture was a great
tribute and will soon be sold out. Many have expressed a desire to see
other work featuring the acclaimed musician. This second Dimebag
Darrell limited edition figure will be available for holiday sales
2007. Pre-orders will be accepted at http://www.knucklebonz.com/ to
reserve.

KnuckleBonz creates hand-painted sculpture of honored musicians in
their Rock Iconz® Sculpture Series. Dimebag was considered an
extremely versatile player combining immaculate chops and power
groove. Combine this with his flawless live performances and Dime's
place among guitar greats is certainly confirmed. Those who knew him
best describe his as "pure raw energy." KnuckleBonz is honored to
continue to work with Dime's family to create these collectibles.

The figure sells for $99 USD direct from KnuckleBonz at
http://www.knucklebonz.com/ . (KnuckleBonz offers an eNewsletter which
provides additional information on the sculpture and availability
updates.) Pre-ordering is available online to reserve this limited
edition collectible. The Dimebag II Limited Edition figure is also
available through select retailers worldwide. Only 3,000 collectible
figures available.

About KnuckleBonz, Incorporated:

KnuckleBonz, Inc. was established in Park City, UT in 2003. The
company is committed to the artistry of creating high-end collectible
figure series for the icons of popular music.

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #14 ***
*
-Leaves' Eyes News -- DVD Filming

A message from vocalist Liv Kristine:

"Dear Friends & Fans,

"What a weekend! Last night we returned from our headliner show in
Wieze. One thing is for sure: Metal Female Voices Festival 2007 was
fantastic, and for Leaves' Eyes it was absolutely amazing to headline
the festival, moreover to film the complete show for our DVD! I have
no words to describe how thankful I am towards my band members, our
crew (including those who built and transported the Viking ship), film
team, pyro team, lighting team, the MFVF staff and of course the
audience! All of you made this evening an unforgettable experience,
and I'm so happy we have it on tape.

"Our special day in Wieze started with a short practise at 8 a.m. on
Saturday. I was a bit nervous concerning walking the stairs down from
the Viking ship as I was to wear a very long dress at the beginning of
the show. Secondly, I was worried about how and where I was to change
my dresses during the show (there were four of them). Luckily, our
crew helped me to set up two walls right behind the ship, so I was
safe. Walking the stairs, however, was my job. Anyhow, as soon as the
intro was running and I heard the applause of the audience in the
fully packed concert hall, I felt 'safe' and everything went fine. I
really enjoyed the show, and I was happy to hear at the signing
session afterwards that the audience were happy, too. Of course, we
had a few technical difficulties, but it didn't have a negative effect
on our performance. Meeting and greeting our fans and friends was
another highlight for me. A warm thank you to all of you who brought
presents to my son, including a KLM aeroplane which I couldn't find
myself in any toy stores so far (Leon loved it!). At the after-show
party we were happy to meet our friends from Battlelore, Elis, friends
we only meet at festivals and some journalists and photographers whose
work and friendship we really appreciate. At 4 a.m. we all went to
bed, tired but satisfied.

"During my run this morning I was thinking that I'm very lucky to be
in the middle of all this, moreover that I'm so happy that everything
went all right, especially that you all liked it and had a good time
with us in Wieze.

"Have a beautiful day & best wishes,
"Liv"

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #15 ***
*
-Napalm Records News

Lacrimas Profundere: Album News and tour with Apocalyptica

The rock-n-sad chart breakers Lacrimas Profundere return in 2008 to
record the follow-up to the highly successful FILTHY NOTES FOR FROZEN
HEARTS album. Lacrimas will again work with renowned producer John
Fryer (H.I.M., Nine Inch Nails) to complete this latest release coming
in February 2008. Expect a melancholic masterpiece full of surprises
including vocalist Christopher Schmid's perfect replacement, Rob
Vitacca, and Peter Kafka, who will not only provide backing vocals but
also take on the bass responsibilites.

But first, Lacrimas Profundere will be on European tour:

LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE & APOCALYPTICA
28.11.2007 FR – Lille / Aeronef
29.11.2007 FR – Paris / Bataclan
30.11.2007 FR – Toulouse / La Phare
01.12.2007 ES – Bergara / Sala Jam
03.12.2007 ES – Madrid / Joy
04.12.2007 ES – Barcelona / Apolo
05.12.2007 FR – Lyon / Transborder
06.12.2007 FR - Strasbourg / Laiterie
07.12.2007 NL – Amsterdam / Melkweg
08.12.2007 BE – Brussels / AB Box
09.12.2007 NL – Groningen / Oosterpoort
10.12.2007 NL – Tilburg / 013
11.12.2007 UK – London / Astoria
12.12.2007 UK – Manchester / Academy 2
13.12.2007 UK – Birmingham / Academy 1
14.12.2007 UK – Glasgow / Garage

LACRIMAS PROFUNDERE:
17.11.2007 DE - Würzburg / Gothic Night

Lacrimas Profundere Meet & Meet And Listening Session

Just like for FILTHY NOTES..., exclusive Listening sessions will be
held for the new album, as well as meet & greets, where fans will have
the opportunity to meet Lacrimas in person and be the very first to
listen to the new album. Details to be announced soon.

http://www.lacrimas.com/

Upcoming Releases

Svartsot - RAVNENES SAGA (Nov. 6)
http://www.svartsot.dk/

Svartsot is the next rising star in the Folk Metal heavens, as
traditional Scandinavian sounds and instruments meet brutal, yet
melodic Death Metal. Crushing mid-tempo tracks and catchy neck-
breakers driven by heavy guitar riffs, deep vocals, and whipping
drumming are refined with traditional folk melodies. Powerfully
produced by Jacob Hansen (Tyr, Hatesphere), Svartsot's debut delivers
new hymns for Folk Metal's next generation.

Prelistening-Links for RAVNENES SAGA:

Gravollet
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Svartsot01_Gravollet_Edit.mp3

Tvende Ravne
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Svartsot02_TvendeRavne_Edit.mp3

Nidvisen
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Svartsot03_Nidvisen_Edit.mp3

Jotunheimsfaerden
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Svartsot04_Jotunheimsfaerden_Edit.m
p3

Bersaerkergang
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Svartsot05_Bersaerkergang_Edit.mp3

Herdens Dotre
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Svartsot06_HedensDotre_Edit.mp3

Festen
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Svartsot07_Festen_Edit.mp3

Spillemandens Dase
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Svartsot08_SpillemandensDase_Edit.m
p3

Skovens Kaelling
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Svartsot09_SkovensKaelling_Edit.mp3

Skonne Moer
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Svartsot10_SkonneMoer_Edit.mp3

Brages Baeger
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Svartsot11_BragesBaeger_Edit.mp3

Havets Plage
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Svartsot12_HavetsPlage_Edit.mp3

Prelistening of the complete Album: ON 30.10.2007 for 24 hours on
http://www.heavylaw.com/ !

Sinamore - SEVEN SINS A SECOND (Nov. 6)

Sorrowful melodies, melancholic lyrics, and a somber atmosphere are
typical of Finnish bands. Yet for all the world weariness imparted in
their music, Sinamore never forgets their rock band status. Thus, the
four Finns let it all hang out, combining pleasing melancholy and soft
sounds with solid drumming, great hooklines, catchy choruses, and
heavy guitars. In other words, Gothic Rock with balls!

Prelistening-links for SEVEN SINS A SECOND:

Silence So Loud
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Sinamore03_SilenceSoLoud_Edit.mp3

Better Alone
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Sinamore02_BetterAlone_Edit.mp3

Dressed In White
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Sinamore04_DressedInWhite_Edit.mp3

Frozen Mile
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Sinamore05_FrozenMile_Edit.mp3

The Burning Frame
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Sinamore06_The
BurningFrame_Edit.mp3

Everything Ends
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Sinamore07_EverythingEnds_Edit.mp3

Unbreakable Calm
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Sinamore08_UnbreakableCalm_Edit.mp3

Far From A Dream
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Sinamore09_FarFromADream_Edit.mp3

Eyes Of May
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Sinamore10_EyesOfMay_Edit.mp3

Prelistening of the complete album: On Oct 31, for 24 hours on
http://www.heavylaw.com/ !

Elis - "Show Me The Way" (Nov. 6)
http://www.elis.li/

"Show Me The Way" is both legacy and new beginning for the Gothic
Metal flagship band Elis. On the one hand, the MCD honorably closes
the GRIEFSHIRE chapter by offering former front lady Sabine Dünser's
final, unrealeased works. On the other hand, it supplies fans with a
new version of the sweeping Gothic Metal classic "Show Me The Way,"
courtesy of their fantastic new vocalist, Sandra Schleret. Regardless
of destiny's fatal blow, Elis delivers a worthy memorial for their
deceased vocalist, while taking a first step to continue the band with
dignity.

Syrach - DAYS OF WRATH (Nov. 6)
http://www.syrach.com/

This Norwegian Doom machine offers heavy and vivid symphonies, which
are not only massive and brutal, but also raw and coarse. The hypnotic
drumming highlights the raw sounds and vocals, as well as the down-
tuned guitars that produce one crushing riff after another as if
forged from the confines of inner conflict. Expect no lovely melodies
or kitsch from Syrach. DAYS OF WRATH delivers a violent and hopeless
approach to the musical experience.

Prelistening-Links for DAYS OF WRATH:

Are You Able To Breathe Fire
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Syrach01_AreYouAbleToBreathFire_Edi
t.mp3

Semper Ardens
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Syrach02_SemperArdens_Edit.mp3

The Firm Grip Of Death
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Syrach03_TheFirmGripOfDeath_edit.mp
3

Stigma Diabolikum
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Syrach04_StigmaDiabolikum_Edit.mp3

Come Daemons
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Syrach05_ComeDaemons_Edit.mp3

Nine Fallen Men
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Syrach06_NineFallenMen_Edit.mp3

A Death Tear
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Syrach07_ADeathTear_mp3.mp3

The Twilight Enigma
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Syrach08_TheTwilightEnigma_Edit.mp3

Vesania - DISTRACTIVE KILLUSIONS (Nov. 20)
http://www.vesania.pl/

The Polish bludgeoning commando is back! Racing blastbeats, rapid-fire
riffs, and symphonic bombastic arrangements come together with a
mongrel mix of Symphonic Black Metal and Death Metal influences. Add
the rabid barks of frontman Orion (Vader, Behemoth), a crushing
production typical of bands such as Dimmu Borgir, soundtrack-quality
orchestral passages, and a technical prowess surpassing all others.
Vesania are destructive, brutal, and dominant to the extreme. The
perfect soundtrack for the apocalypse.

http://www.napalmrecords.com/
http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=napalmrecords
http://www.myspace.com/napalmrecords

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #16 ***
*
-Emperor Multimedia Launches New Radio Show & Station

Starting Next Tuesday (October 30, 2007) Emperor Multimedia and
Diskery will launch "NWR," our long-awaited Internet radio station,
and on that station the first show broadcasts at 8 p.m. Eastern time,
titled "The State Of The Empire Address," the audio edition of our
famous e-mail newsletter. The show will feature comedy, commentary and
loads of heavy metal music, punk and hard rock from the undergorund
indie world. Information on inclduing artists as well as how to
recieve the signal is now posted at http://www.diskery.com/radio . The
show will be hosted by famed Heavy Metal music documentary CD-ROM
encyclopedia author "Skel."

The broadcast will transmit at 64Kps, 44100 samples stereo and is
expected to become a weekly feature and is free. The programming on
the "station" will be limited at first but more audio shows are
epxected to follow soon. All one needs to receive the show is the
Nullsoft Winamp receiver or Windows Media.

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #17 ***
*
-Bloodsimple

Gracing the stage with bands from Slayer to Alice In Chains, and
straight off the Family Values Tour, Bloodsimple is now venturing on a
full-fledged U.S. tour. The boys, Tim Williams and Mike Kennedy (of
legendary New York hardcore band Vision Of Disorder), Kyle Sanders
(brother of Mastodon's Troy Sanders), and Nick Rowe, will be direct
support for Hellyeah!

"I can't believe people still care about what I'm doing sometimes,
it's pretty funny," said Bloodsimple front man Tim Williams. But how
could you not care -- Bloodsimple's latest album RED HARVEST hits
stores October 30, and you don't want to miss it! One of the most
sonically diverse albums in recent memory, their major label debut
combines their unique brand of groove-driven metal with a more organic
and fine-tuned sound. Their new single, "Out To Get You," is about to
hit a radio station near you, if it already hasn't.

Tour Dates:

10/30 - Detroit, MI - Fillmore
10/31 - Indianapolis, IN - Egyptian Room
11/2 - Grand Rapids, MI - Orbit Room
11/3 - Minneapolis, MN - First Avenue
11/4 - Chicago, IL - House Of Blues
11/7 - Kansas City, MO - Uptown Theater
11/9 - Denver, CO - Fillmore
11/10 - El Paso, TX - Cohen Stadium
11/11 - Tempe, AZ - Marquee Theatre
11/13 - Santa Ana, CA - Galaxy Theatre
11/14 - West Hollywood, CA - Key Club
11/16 - Ventura, CA - Majestic Venture Theatre
11/17 - Las Vegas, NV - House Of Blues
11/23 - Oklahoma City, OK - Diamond Ballroom
11/24 - Houston, TX - Meridian
11/27 - Memphis, TN - New Daisy Theatre
11/28 - Atlanta, GA - Roxy Theatre
12/2 - Orlando, FL - Hard Rock Live
12/4 - Norfolk, VA - The Nova
12/5 - Baltimore, MD - Rams Head Live
12/7 - Worcester, MA - The Palladium
12/8 - Hartford, CT - Webster Theatre
12/9 - New York, NY - Irving Plaza

*
*** NEWS/RUMORS ***
*
-Airtime, the new band featuring Rik Emmett (Triumph) and Michael
Shotton (Von Groove), will release LIBERTY MANIFESTO on November 20
via Escape Music. Check out http://www.escape-music.com/ for all the
details.

-Asia hopes to tour the U.K. next spring, and possibly will reschedule
its canceled North American tour afterwards. John Wetton is currently
recovering from heart surgery, and Carl Palmer will tour the U.K. with
his solo band next month; North American dates for 2008 are also
possible. See http://www.carlpalmer.com/ for more.

-The Dead End Kidz are "very close" to having a new album called
UNFINISHED BUSINESS ready. Check out http://www.myspace.com/dekmusic
for a fresh new live video of "It's Now Or Never" and
http://www.youtube.com/john8186 for other exclusive videos, including
a cover of "New York Groove."

-Issue #6 of the Polish webzine Department Of Virtuosity is now
available at http://www.hmpmag.pl/ , complete with tons of review of
"virtuoso-oriented albums" (a.k.a., stuff by Jason Becker, Yngwie
Malmsteen, etc.) See http://www.myspace.com/departmentofvirtuosity for
more.

-Enchant singer Ted Leonard has a new solo album available called WAY
HOME. It can be ordered from CD Baby or directly from the artist; see
http://www.theoasis.cc/ and http://www.myspace.com/tedleonard for
more.

-Eternal Flight -- featuring Gérard Fois on lead vocals and acoustic
guitar, Christophe Offredi on lead guitars, Nicolas Jeanpierre on
bass, Sébastien Vibert on keyboards, and Arnaud Gorbaty on drums --
just released UNDER THE SIGN OF WILL on Nightmare Records. See
http://eternalflight.free.fr or http://www.myspace.com/eternalflight
for more.

-Evergrey has a great studio diary up, including videos, at
http://www.evergrey.net/blog .

-Grand Funk Railroad tour dates:

10/28 - Laketown Fest, Kenner, LA
11/3 - Rib Fest @ Homestead Air Reserve Park, Homestead, FL
11/10 - Rib Fest @ Vinoy Park, St. Petersburg, FL
11/11 - Riverfront Park, North Charleston, SC
11/30 - 12/1 - Cactus Pete's Showroom, Jackpot, NV
1/17/08 - The Community Theatre, Morristown, NJ

See http://www.grandfunkrailroad.com/ for more.

-HammerFall's first "best of" collection is the two-CD set STEEL MEETS
STEEL (10 YEARS OF GLORY), and is available for streaming at
http://www.Fuzz.com/ . Hype has it featuring "all the classics that
made HammerFall famous plus three completely new songs, a re-recorded
version of 'HammerFall' and two live bonus tracks from 1998."

-Upcoming House Of Shakira tour dates:

11/10 - Lucille Rock Club, Verona, Italy
12/14 - Sala Gamma, Murcia, Spain
12/15 - Ritmo Y Compás, Madrid, Spain

The December 15 show was previously mistakenly listed as taking place
in Barcelona. Additional dates for 2008 are being planned.

-Online reports indicate the third installment of the KISSOLOGY DVD
anthology will be released December 18. Content will include "MTV
Unplugged"-era footage; band commentary; a 1973 show from the Coventry
as a "bonus" on initial pressings only; Easter Eggs possibly set to
include CARNIVAL OF SOULS studio footage and makeup-less sound check
footage from the Brooklyn Bridge/"MTV Awards" performance; the
(virtually) untouched 1992 show at The Palace, segments of which
previously appeared on the KONFIDENTIAL home video; a new/different
edit of the Dodger Stadium show; and bonus discs featuring a 1994 show
from Sao Paulo using the Sphinx stage, the first makeup reunion show
at the KROQ Weenie Rost in 1996, and a 1996 reunion tour show from
Madison Square Garden. There will also be a promo show airing on VH1
(possibly VH1 Classic) in December. See http://www.KissOnline.com/ for
more. In related news, Gene Simmons will reportedly appear on a
celebrity edition of Donald Trump's "The Apprentice," with Stephen
Baldwin, Marilu Henner, Lennox Lewis, Vincent Pastore, and others.

-Lizzy Borden's new album APPOINTMENT WITH DEATH is due out via Metal
Blade Records, on October 30 in the U.S. and November 5 in Europe.

-Overlorde has posted a second song featuring Chris Colfax on vocals,
"Metallic Madness" recorded live at the Brooklyn Metalfest II, at
http://www.myspace.com/overlorde . See http://www.overlorde.com/ for
more.

-PowerQuest from the U.K. has signed with Napalm Records. Hype: "The
band plays, just as the name suggests, Power Metal and will surely
appeal to fans of DragonForce or Rhapsody." The new album should be
fully recorded by December, with a spring 2008 release scheduled. See
http://www.myspace.com/powerquest for more.

-Check out a new interview with Scorpions guitarist Rudolf Schenker at
http://www.blasting-zone.com/Scorpions_1.htm .

-Tyr is working on songs for its next album, to be produced by
RAGNAROK veteran Jacob Hansen. Hype: "Like in the past, Tyr's latest
songs will contain genuine, traditional Scandinavian music combined
with crushing Metal." The disc should be out next April on Napalm
Records. See http://www.tyr.net/ for more.

-Z Records announced a new distribution deal for Germany with NL
Distribution. See http://www.zrecords.net/ for more.

Thanks to Mikolaj "Nicolo" Furmankiewicz, Bill Kotowski, John Erigo,
Todd Newton, and Anne Leighton for help gathering some of this
information.

*
*** REVIEWS ***
*
LETHAL AGGRESSION – LIFE IS HARD... (B-) Xtreem Music, 2007
44 tracks, RT: 76:44
[ http://www.myspace.com/lethalaggression ]
[ http://www.xtreemmusic.com/ ]
Remember the good ole days when hardcore was actually about having FUN
(as opposed to nowadays, when it's full of whiny, pretentious,
vegetarian straight-edge motherf**kers telling you how you should live
your life)? Then Xtreem Music's reissue of 1989's LIFE IS HARD... disc
by Lethal Aggression should bring back some fond memories. The New
Jersey band dealt out a mix of hardcore punk and thrash metal that was
commonly referred to as "thrashcore" or "speedcore" back in the day,
and pretty much sounds like a mish-mosh of early Suicidal Tendencies,
early C.O.C., Cryptic Slaughter, D.R.I., and Wehrmacht. (If you own
albums by any of the aforementioned bands but have never heard Lethal
Aggression, consider me astounded.) Even if you still have the
original LIFE IS HARD... LP from 1989, completists will still want to
pick this reissue up because in addition to the original album, the CD
also compiles just about every note that Lethal Aggression has ever
recorded to date, including tracks from two different 7" singles (1987
and 1990), live tracks from the band's first show (at a local roller
rink!) in 1985, and the reactivated band's 2006 demo tape, for a total
of 44 tracks in just over 75 minutes. These guys pack a lot of wallop
in a relatively short time with their quick, to the point, foul
mouthed songs (most are in and out in under two minutes) about
drinking ("Vodda Vodka," "Ripple On Ice"), drugs ("Drugcore") and
hardcore unity ("No Scene," "Circle Pit Of Life"), along with some
humorous pissed-off rants about life in general ("Dicked Again," "Kill
Death Die," "Stuck F**k", and the classic "Spooge"), but they're
always fun and never heavy handed or preachy. The performances, as you
might expect, are lightning-fast and somewhat on the sloppy side
(According to the liner notes in the booklet, much of this material
was recorded in an drunken/drug-induced haze, and the LIFE IS HARD...
album was mixed by the band while under the influence of LSD, so it's
an impressive feat that the band sounds as good as it does!) and the
production is cheap and fuzzy (bass and drums up front, vocals and
guitars buried in the back), but that's old-school hardcore for ya!
The booklet is also great fun, packed with tons of photos of the band
members and their friends acting goofy, pics of stage divers and slam
dancers, lots of vintage concert flyers, and some entertaining
commentary from the band members on each of the various recording
sessions. Those liner notes sum this band up nicely: "Fast-catchy-
angry-pissed-fun-moshable-thrashcore!" That pretty much says it all as
far as I'm concerned. If you bring LIFE IS HARD... into your home, I
recommend that you move all of your fragile items to a safe location
before pressing "play."
- Keith Abt (keithabt@...)

METHOD OF DESTRUCTION (M.O.D.) – RED, WHITE AND SCREWED (B-) Index
Entertainment, 2007
13 tracks, RT: 48:46
[ http://www.billymilano.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/modmethodofdestruction ]
[ http://www.indexentertainment.com/ ]
The bio sheet that came with this disc says it all, really -- "He's
back, and he's pissed!" "He" would be Billy Milano, legendary front
man of thrash/crossover kings Stormtroopers Of Death (S.O.D.), whose
last release under the M.O.D. banner, 2003's disastrous THE REBEL YOU
LOVE TO HATE, was a filler-packed mess that only contained two good
songs (those being "Wigga" and "Ass-Ghanistan"). After barely
surviving that debacle, Billy assembled a new band consisting of Scott
Sargeant (ex-Skinlab, Laaz Rockit) and drummer Derek Lopez, and
assumed bass duties in addition to his usual lead vocalist slot (Billy
was a bass player in his pre-S.O.D. band, The Psychos, back in the
'80s too) to record RED, WHITE AND SCREWED, a disc that is thankfully
far superior to REBEL. Song titles like "Bullsh*t Politics," "Suicide
Bomb Pop" and the title track should make it obvious that Billy's in a
more serious, angry mood these days. These tracks bop along like the
hardcore days of old, with plenty of crunchy, moshable riffs and
Billy's upped the aggression factor on his vocals BIG time, so that
even the humorous songs like "Jose Can You See?" and "Balls On Bread"
(ha!) pack a pretty decent punch. I especially liked "Alphabet City
Stomp," a look back at the glory days of '80s NYHC filled with shout-
outs to the old school bands, and "G.L.E.T. (Greatest Lie Ever Told),"
which features Billy bringing back his hilarious King Diamond
impression last heard on the S.O.D. track "King At The King" (from
1999's BIGGER THAN THE DEVIL). Fans that were left scratching their
heads by the atypical goofiness of THE REBEL YOU LOVE TO HATE (which
sounded like Weird Al Yankovic attempting to do a thrash record)
should be pleased with RED, WHITE AND SCREWED, because it appears that
Billy has rediscovered the proper balance between the humorous and the
hardcore. Do us a favor and stay forever pissed, Billy!!
- Keith Abt (KeithAbt@...)

*
*** OUT ***
*