Detritus
Issue #448
Week of March 3, 2008
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*
*** CAST OF CHARACTERS ***
*
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 ***
*
-Wow, is it March already? Must be time for Shamrock Shakes at
McDonald's! - Tim

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*** PRESS RELEASE #1 ***
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-Ratt To Appear On "Rockline" This Wednesday, March 5

CD And DVD Reissues From Hard Rock Faves Out Now

Band Also Announces Upcoming West Coast Dates

[Note: This is reprinted from the other day, just in case you have a
Wayback Machine. - Tim]

LOS ANGELES -- The original heavy metal hit-makers Ratt will make an
appearance on "Rockline" for an interview and performance this
Wednesday, March 5th. Ratt's current lineup is Stephen Pearcy vocals,
Warren DeMartini lead guitar, Bobby Blotzer drums, Robbie Crane bass
and John Corabi guitar. Ratt will perform their signature tracks and
will also be fielding calls from listeners. "Rockline" airs Wednesday,
March 5 between 8:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. PST. Please check local
listings for time and channel identification. Fans can also listen to
the show live online!
http://www.rocklineradio.com/

RATT: VIDEOS FROM THE CELLAR: THE ATLANTIC YEARS DVD and TELL THE
WORLD: THE VERY BEST OF RATT CD were released last year and are
available now at all retail outlets and at http://www.rhino.com/ for
suggested list prices of $19.99 for the DVD and $18.98 for the CD,
respectively.

RATT - 2008 TOUR: CONFIRMED WEST COAST DATES:
Thurs., April 17 - Las Vegas, NV - House Of Blues
Fri., April 18 - West Hollywood, CA - House Of Blues (w/ White Lion &
Little Caesar)
Sat., April 19 - Anaheim, CA - House Of Blues
Sun., April 20 - San Diego, CA - Dream Catchers at the Viejas Casino

ONLINE: http://www.therattpack.com/
MYSPACE: http://www.myspace.com/therattpack

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*** PRESS RELEASE #2 ***
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-R.I.P. Jeff Healey

TORONTO -- Blind rock and jazz musician Jeff Healey has died after a
lifelong battle against cancer. He was 41.

Healey died Sunday evening in a Toronto hospital, said band mate Colin
Bray, who was in the room with Healey's family when the guitarist
died.

The Grammy-nominated Healey rose to stardom as the leader of the Jeff
Healey Band, a rock-oriented trio that gained international acclaim
and platinum record sales with the 1988 album SEE THE LIGHT. The album
included the hit single "Angel Eyes."

Healey had battled cancer since age 1, when a rare form of retinal
cancer known as Retinoblastoma claimed his eyesight.

Due to his blindness, Healey taught himself to play guitar by laying
the instrument across his lap.

His unique playing style, combined with his blues-oriented vocals,
earned him a reputation as a teenage musical prodigy. He shared stages
with George Harrison, B.B. King and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Bray said he and many others expected the guitarist to rally from this
latest illness.

"I don't think any of us thought this was going to happen," Bray said.
"We just thought he was going to bounce back as he always does."

Healey had undergone numerous operations in recent years to remove
tumors from his lungs and leg.

Bray and fellow band mate Gary Scriven remembered their front man as a
musician of rare abilities with a generous nature and wicked sense of
humor.

Healey's true love was jazz, the genre that dominated his three most
recent albums.

His love of jazz led him to host radio shows in Canada where he spun
long-forgotten numbers from his personal collection of over 30,000
vinyl records.

His death came weeks before the release of his first rock album in
eight years.

MESS OF BLUES is slated for a North American release on April 22.

He is survived by his wife, Christie, and two children.

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*** PRESS RELEASE #3 ***
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-A&E Insider: "Gene Simmons Family Jewels"

Has rock legend Gene Simmons really been with 4,800 women?

Everybody wants to know the truth!

To kick off the new season of "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," A&E will
be hosting events on Thursday, March 6th and Friday, March 7th at bars
across the country. There will be drink specials, fun giveaways and a
chance to test your friends with lie detectors! And don't forget to
watch the season premiere this Tuesday, March 11th at 10 p.m./9
Central.

Don't forget to watch "Gene Simmons Family Jewels" on A&E Tuesday at
10 p.m./9 Central and find out what the lie detector test reveals!

Locations (same dates/times)

Boston
The Place (2 Broad St)

Chicago
John Barleycorn (3524 N. Clark St., Wrigleyville)
John Barleycorn (658 W. Belden Ave., Lincoln Park)
Red Ivy (3525 N. Clark St.)

San Francisco
The Etiquette (1108 Market St.)
Blondie's (540 Valencia St.)

New York
Plan B (339 East 10th S.)
The Gin Mill (442 Amsterdam Ave.)

Seattle
Last Supper Club (124 S. Washington St.)

Los Angeles
The Bungalow Club (7174 Melrose Ave., L.A.)
Busby's West (3110 Santa Monica Blvd.)
Busby's East (5364 Wilshire Blvd., L.A.)

Philadelphia
Chickie's & Pete's (1526 Packer Ave.)
McFadden's (461 N. 3rd St.)

Washington DC
Tattoo Bar (1413 K St. NW)
Lotus Lounge (1420 K St. NW)

NEW VIDEO: Shannon Embarrasses Nick
Shannon indulges in her favorite past time, embarrassing Nick, during
couch interview outtakes.
http://newsletters.aetv.com/cgi-bin15/DM/y/hbjX0LaPaA0Fwm0iTD0EX

NEW VIDEO: Season 2 Recap
Behold: The Second Coming. The "Gene Simmons Family Jewels" Season 2
recap.
http://newsletters.aetv.com/cgi-bin15/DM/y/hbjX0LaPaA0Fwm0ibs0EY

NEW GAME: Gene's Jewels
Play the new Gene's Jewels Game. Score points by matching colored
jewels. It's addictive.
http://newsletters.aetv.com/cgi-bin15/DM/y/hbjX0LaPaA0Fwm0ibt0EZ

NEW QUIZ: Gene Simmons - Quotes Quiz
How well do you know rock's favorite family? See if you can identify
who said these quotes from the show. Take the Quiz.
http://newsletters.aetv.com/cgi-bin15/DM/y/hbjX0LaPaA0Fwm0ibu0Ea

NEW PHOTOS: Updated Photo Gallery
Want to see more of the family? Check out the Photo Gallery!
http://newsletters.aetv.com/cgi-bin15/DM/y/hbjX0LaPaA0Fwm0Qs70ER

Take 50% off the ultimate Gene Simmons DVD collection!
http://newsletters.aetv.com/cgi-bin15/DM/y/hbjX0LaPaA0Fwm0idX0E8

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*** PRESS RELEASE #4 ***
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-Z Records News

Z Head For Oblivion

We are extremely proud to announce the signing of Eden to a worldwide
deal. The U.K. outfit which features Nick Workman [Kick] and Vince
O'Regan [Bob Catley] have produced a solid melodic hard rock album
which bears no resemblance to band's previous outing OPEN MINDS.

Eden have progressed and produced an album which features influences
from Whitesnake, Led Zeppelin and Queensryche to name but a few.
OBLIVION could seriously be one of the best English melodic hard rock
albums of the last decade and that is not said lightly.

OBLIVION will be released April 28th!

Nick and Vince made the following comment regarding the newly signed
deal......

Vocalist Nick Workman says, "Eden are very happy to forge a
partnership with Z Rock Records. With Eden being a gigging band and
not just studio based, it made perfect sense to sign to a label that
supports its bands on the live front. This album is very different
from our first album OPEN MINDS in that it has a more melodic approach
but still maintains the grooves and edge. When we wrote that first
album me and Vince had only just hooked up so it was all new. This
time round we had more time to work on the songs."

Vince O'Regan, Eden's guitarist, also had this to say: "Having had
negative comments regarding albums that I had recently recorded, me
and Nick decided to hand over mixing duties to someone else. Nick is
good friends with Steve Newman and Steve was more than happy to take
it on and he has done a fantastic job and given us a huge sounding
album."

Eden Confirmed For Z Rock 08 And Support To House Of Lords

Eden have confirmed the forthcoming live dates in the U.K. in support
of their eagerly awaited new album OBLIVION. The band has acquired the
support slot on most of the House Of Lords May U.K. tour. In addition
the band has also been added to the Z Rock 08 lineup on May 17th.

May 13th - London, Camden Underworld with House of Lords [0207 267
3939]
May 14th - Crewe, Limelight with House of Lords [01270 251929]
May 17th - Birmingham, Asylum Z Rock 08 Festival [
http://www.myspace.com/zrockfest ]

Tickets for all shows are on sale now!

Steve Grimmett Joins Z Rock Cause

The Steve Grimmett Band is the latest addition to Z Rock 08 on May
17th. Z 08 sees Steve's return to Z Rock after four years when he
played with Lionsheart at Z Rock 04.

Steve made the following comment regarding his involvement in Z 08:
"It's extremely exciting to be back playing at Z and I was very happy
to have been asked. Given the quality of the lineup, we are very much
looking forward to appearing alongside such artists that I know and
respect. This is going to be one hell of a weekend. We are looking
forward to unleashing songs from our current album and also give fans
the chance to hear past material too. I am sure fans will not be
disappointed, we are 100 percent there already."

We hope to finalise the replacement issues regarding Britny Fox and
announce some additions, etc., for day one also over the next few
days.

For more details visit http://www.myspace.com/zrockfest .

http://www.zrecords.net/

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*** PRESS RELEASE #5 ***
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-Special Performance By Chris Caffery & Zak Stevens At Nightmare Metal
Fest!

On Saturday March 22nd, Nightmare Metal Fest will be host to a very
special show by Chris Caffery and Zak Stevens (Savatage, Doctor
Butcher), also known greatly for their work with Trans-Siberian
Orchestra and Circle II Circle. These two long-time musical friends
will reunite in the area of Savatage's inception and will be
performing a special set that may include songs from their Savatage
years, Doctor Butcher and/or other interesting moments of musical
collaborations.

Nightmare Metal Fest brought to you by Nightmare Records in
association with Rock Solid Pressure, Maximum Bands and Bourbon
Street.

FRIDAY - Doors at 6 p.m.
CAGE
DISASTERPEACE (featuring Wade Black of Crimson Glory and Pete Blakk of
King Diamond)
ORDER OF NINE
SACRED DAWN
SHADES OF TWILIGHT

SATURDAY - Doors at 12 p.m.
CHRIS CAFFERY & ZAK STEVENS and friends
X-THIRTIEN
AVIAN
WARMACHINE
DIMENSION
POWND
SIX MINUTE CENTURY
(Dinner break)
FAST TAKER
DECEPCION
NEGATIVE 1
SEVENTH BURNING
CHAOS ARCADE

VENUE
Bourbon Street Nightclub
4331 US Hwy 19
New Port Richey FL 34652
25 Minutes from Clearwater / 30 Minutes from Tampa
http://www.clubbourbonstreet.com/

http://www.nightmaremetalfest.com/
http://www.myspace.com/nightmaremetalfestival

Nightmare Records • 7751 Greenwood Drive • St. Paul • MN • 55112

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*** PRESS RELEASE #6 ***
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-Updated Joey Belladonna "Never Look Back" 2008 World Tour Dates

The following shows have been added to the Belladonna 2008 Never Look
Back world tour.

Bedford, NH on May 16 and the UK in September have been added to
Joey's tour.

Full list of confirmed dates are below.

April 2 - Jack Rabbit Slims Albany, NY
April 3 - Underworld Concert Club Columbus, OH
April 4 - The Lighthouse Imperial, PA
April 5 - Montage Music Hall Rochester, NY
April 6 - The Blue Note Cincinnati, OH
April 9 - 3 Kings Tavern Denver, CO
April 11 - Roadhouse Apple Valley, CA
April 12 - Tremors Riverside, CA
April 13 - The Museum Club Flagstaff, AZ
April 14 - Club Congress Tucson, AZ
April 16 - Fat Cat Modesto, CA
April 18 - Studio Seven Seattle, WA
April 19 - Element Niteclub Victoria, Canada
April 20 - The Cobalt Vancouver, BC, Canada
April 22 - Club Vegas Salt Lake City, UT
April 23 - Big City Night Club Farmington, NM
April 25 - Acadia Bar Houston, TX
April 26 - Rosedale Park San Antonio, TX
April 29 - The Otherside Event Center Tulsa, OK
April 30 - The Muse Nashville, TN
May 1 - Jaxx Springfield, VA
May 3 - Championship Sports Bar And Grill Trenton, NJ
May 7 - Doug's Place Aurora, IL
May 8 - Vnuks Milwaukee, WI
May 9 - Reggie's Rock Club Chicago, IL
May 10 - Jigsaw Saloon Parma, OH
May 11 - Cardo's Chillicothe, OH
May 13 - Europa Night Club Brooklyn, NY
May 16 - Mark's Showplace Manchester, NH (NEW)
May 17 - The Haunt Yonkers, NY
May 18 - The Big Bop Concert Hall Toronto, Ontario, Canada
June 5 - Hard Rock Live Mexico City, Mexico
September 19 - The Ferry Glasgow, UK (NEW)
September 20 - Yardbirds Rock Club Grimsby, UK (NEW)
September 24 - Dudley JB's Dudley, UK (NEW)
September 26 - London Astoria 2 London, England (NEW)

More dates TBA....

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*** PRESS RELEASE #7 ***
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-Five New Bands Confirmed To Sweden Rock

Sweden Rock Festival
4-5-6-7 June 2008
Solvesborg, Sweden

RATT (US)

One of the '80s biggest, most important, most legendary bands from the
glam-spiced L.A. scene! And at the same time, their contemporaries
respected Ratt as a "true" metal band, like their colleagues in Mötley
Crüe and W.A.S.P. After having spent several years feeding the world
classic metal anthems like "Round And Round" and "Lay It Down,"
vocalist Stephen Pearcy decided to pull the plug on Ratt in the early
'90s. The band decided to start anew without him some years later,
which created a severe rift between both parties that has now finally
been repaired. So it is indeed a Ratt fronted by its classic singer
Stephen Pearcy that the audience at SRF will finally get to see and
hear -- unbridled cheering and an unbeatable atmosphere is guaranteed!
We recommend: OUT OF THE CELLAR, INVASION OF YOUR PRIVACY, DETONATOR.

APOCALYPTICA (FIN)

Four classically trained cellists performing Metallica covers
exclusively! Rarely, if ever, has hard rock seen such a peculiar
concept. But Finnish band Apocalyptica caused a sensation when PLAYS
METALLICA BY FOUR CELLOS arrived in 1996, and to the delight of many
the band proved themselves more than capable to remain at the top even
as the covers were gradually phased out by self-written material on
their set lists and albums. Their two latest releases REFLECTIONS and
APOCALYPTICA, number four and five respectively, consist exclusively
of original compositions, and public interest is probably bigger today
than ever. Today Apocalyptica consists of three cellists and a drummer
-- we guarantee that you never heard or saw anything like it. But you
already knew that, if you are indeed an Apocalyptica fan. We
recommend: CULT, REFLECTIONS, APOCALYPTICA.

SATYRICON (N)

Satyricon, who debuted with DARK MEDIEVAL TIMES in 1993, are one of
the classic Norwegian black metal bands. The band, which core consists
of front man Satyr and drummer Frost (a skilled musician, often seen
behind the kit in other bands as well, 1349 and Keep Of Kalessin to
name two), is a finely honed live act that includes both old classics
as well as newer material in their set lists. Speaking of classics:
Satyricon became one of the first black metal bands to do a proper
video, for the song "Mother North" off the NEMESIS DIVINA album. The
video became an instant "hit" (as far as a black metal song could be
called a hit back in 1996) among fans. A monumental, grand, yet very
aggressive song significant for Norwegian black metal in general, and
Satyricon in particular. Satyricon has developed their style from
album to album, but still keeping their sound intact, never betraying
what they set out to create: black metal with a high level of
ambition.

BLACK STONE CHERRY (US)

Black Stone Cherry consists of four young guys from Edmonton in the
middle of dry county Kentucky. So what to do then, if not learn how to
play and form a band? Something the guys definitely were right in
doing. On their self-titled debut they have produced a highly
successful mix of blues based '70s sounding hard rock, AC/DC stomping
groove and a slightly modern touch. Singer Chris Robertson has a great
rough edged mature voice which puts the fine icing on the dirty cake.
They have, despite only having released one album, a great live
reputation, delivering 100%. As they say themselves: "We're a
straight-ahead, in-your-face rock & roll band that tells the truth and
sometimes stretches it beyond the imagination."

SIR LORD BALTIMORE (US)

In 1971 Mike Saunders of Creem Magazine wrote: "Sir Lord Baltimore
seems to have pat down most all the best heavy metal tricks in the
book." This is the first time the term "heavy metal" was ever
documented in its correct context. When you listen to the band's debut
KINGDOM COME (1970) you will understand the true meaning of the term.
The raw, brutal guitar and bass playing, with John's energetic
drumming and soulful desperate vocals as the icing on the cake, it's
definitely synonymous with heavy metal. On the self-titled follow-up
they went for a slightly different sound, much heavier in songs like
"Woman Tamer" and "Ceasar LXXI," but also more varied like the suite
"Man From Manhattan." After these two albums the band disappeared into
obscurity and became something of a myth. Until suddenly John Garner
appeared as singer in The Lizards. The band also did a cover of Sir
Lord Baltimore's "Kingdom Come," and John came to know there was quite
a big demand for a reunion of the band. He took matter into hands and
released the album SIR LORD BALTIMORE III - RAW last year, featuring
re-recordings of old unreleased tracks. Unfortunately John's old
companions have either put their instruments in the closet or devoted
their time to other things. However, as John was 2/4 of the band's
sound, he has now got a new guitarist and bass player and will revive
the old heavy metal beast. Prepare yourselves to finally get to hear
classic tracks like "Pumped Up," "Hellhound," "Woman Tamer" and
"Kingdom Come" live!

Now we have all our tickets up for sale online.

If you want to go all four days it is time to buy the 4-day ticket now
as we don't have so many left. It is limited to 10.000!

4-day ticket: limited - 1990:- (there are not many left)
3-day ticket: regular - 1790:-
3-day ticket: limited w/exclusive CD - 1890:-
1-day 4 june: 390:-
1-day 5 june: 990:-
1-day 6 june: 990:-
1-day 7 june: 990:-

All prices are in Swedish Krona!

BUY TICKETS? CLICK HERE
http://www.tickster.com/c/swedenrock/Default.aspx?lang=en

All information: http://www.swedenrock.com/

CONFIRMED BANDS SO FAR:

JUDAS PRIEST (UK)
DEF LEPPARD (UK)
POISON (US)
TRIUMPH (CAN)
WHITESNAKE (UK/US)
DISTURBED (US)
TOBIAS SAMMET'S AVANTASIA (D)
ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA (UK) former members of ELO and ELO Part II
BLUE ÖYSTER CULT (US)
SAXON(UK)
RATT(US)
ACE FREHLEY (US)
TESTAMENT (US)
JOE SATRIANI (US)
TESLA (US)
APOCALYPTICA(FIN)
AT THE GATES (S)
SEBASTIAN BACH (US)
SATYRICON(N)
HANOI ROCKS (FIN)
DERRINGER BAND (US)
MINISTRY (US)
BLACK STONE CHERRY(US)
HAVANA BLACK (FIN)
PRIMORDIAL (IRL)
SIR LORD BALTIMORE(US)
THE BLUES BAND (UK)
COHEED AND CAMBRIA (US)
CARCASS (UK)
AIRBOURNE (AUS)
HENSLEY/LAWTON & LIVE FIRE (UK)
PICTURE (NL)
DARE (UK)
MUCC (JAP)
ULI JON ROTH (D)
SHAKIN' STREET (FR)
ELÄKELÄISET (FIN)
GOTTHARD (CH)
MUSTASCH (S)
SABATON (S)
PRIMAL FEAR (D)
LIZZY BORDEN (US)
BONAFIDE (S)
SONIC SYNDICATE (S)
GLYDER (IRL)
FASTWAY (UK)
AXEWITCH (S)
FIVE FIFTEEN (FIN)
ASTRAL DOORS (S)
AVATAR (S)
VOLBEAT (DK)
ROYAL HUNT (DK)
VIVIAN (CH)
H.E.A.T. (S)
NEGATIVE (FIN)

All-inclusive
SWEDEN AT ITS BEST -- WELCOME TO VISIT SOUTH SWEDEN AND SWEDEN ROCK
FESTIVAL 2008 THE 4-5-6-7 JUNE

We offer you the complete All-inclusive Sweden Rock packages,
accommodation and festival transfer.

Check up our services.
http://www.visitsouthsweden.com/

CD AND MERCHANDISE WITH THE BANDS?
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 #8 ***
*
-Flotsam And Jetsam Reissues Coming Up

[Note: This is from MetalManiacs.com. - Tim]

In the entire history of thrash metal there are some names which
simply cannot be omitted. Metallica, Megadeth, Testament -- these are
classics among thrash groups, often referred to as top representatives
of the genre. However, there is one band that was constantly being
thrown off the pedestal, although they certainly belonged there. Meet
Flotsam And Jetsam, the five-piece from Phoenix, Arizona -- a true
thrash metal legend, unjustly underrated by the mainstream, but to
this day gathering a loyal fellowship of fans. Metal Mind Productions
proudly present re-mastered reissues of three Flotsam And Jetsam
albums:

WHEN THE STORM COMES DOWN (1990) -- one of the group's most unique
releases, showcasing amazing songwriting talent combined with a heavy
dose of prime thrash riffing. New edition includes a bonus material:
an interview taken from the single "The Master Sleeps."

CUATRO (1992) -- the strongest album in the band's discography, with a
commercial potential rarely seen in the thrash genre. It is also one
of the best sounding thrash metal albums ever recorded. New edition
includes five bonus tracks (video, edits and mixes).

DRIFT (1995) -- Flotsam And Jetsam's most mature and successful
release. A must-have for all thrash metal lovers! New edition includes
three bonus tracks.

Classic material in a new digi-pak edition, limited to numerated 2,000
copies will be available on 17th March in Europe / 10th June 2008 in
U.S.A. (via MVD). All three titles are digitally re-mastered using
24-Bit process on golden disc.

Flotsam And Jetsam
WHEN THE STORM COMES DOWN (re-mastered + bonus track)

Label: Metal Mind Records
Cat. No.: MASS CD 1137 DG
Barcode: 5907785031906
Format: CD Digi-pak (limited edition of 2,000 numerated copies)
Genre: thrash metal
Release date: 17.03.2008 Europe / 10.06.2008 U.S.A.

Track list:

1. The Master Sleeps
2. Burned Device
3. Deviation
4. October Thorns
5. No More Fun
6. Suffer the Masses
7. 6, Six, VI
8. Greed
9. E.M.T.E.K
10. Scars
11. K.A.B.

Bonus track:
1. Interview from the single "The Master Sleeps"

Flotsam And Jetsam
CUATRO (re-mastered + bonus tracks)

Label: Metal Mind Records
Cat. No.: MASS CD 1138 DG
Barcode: 5907785031913
Format: CD Digi-pak (limited edition of 2,000 numerated copies)
Genre: thrash metal
Release date: 17.03.2008 Europe / 13.05.2008 U.S.A.

Track list:

1. Natural Enemies
2. Swatting At Flies
3. The Message
4. Cradle Me Now
5. Wading Through The Darkness
6. Double Zero
7. Never To Reveal
8. Forget About Heaven
9. Secret Square
10. Hypodermic Midnight Snack
11. Are You Willing
12. (Ain't Nothing Gonna) Save This World

Bonus tracks:

1. Date With Hate
2. Wading Through The Darkness (radio edit)
3. Wading Through The Darkness (industrial mix)
4. Cradle Me Now (edit version)
5. Wading Through The Darkness (video)

Flotsam And Jetsam
DRIFT (re-mastered + bonus tracks)

Label: Metal Mind Records
Cat. No.: MASS CD 1139 DG
Barcode: 5907785031920
Format: CD Digi-pak (limited edition of 2,000 numerated copies)
Genre: thrash metal
Release date: 17.03.2008 Europe / 10.06.2008 U.S.A.

Track list:

1. Me
2. Empty Air
3. Pick A Window
4. 12 Year Old With A Gun
5. Missing
6. Blindside
7. Remember
8. Destructive Signs
9. Smoked Out
10. Poet's Tell

Bonus tracks:

1. Destructive Signs (Radio Edit)
2. Fairies Wear Boots
3. Smoked Out (Radio Edit)

Bio
Formed in 1982, the band first existed under the name Dreadlox and
later on as Dogz, finally to settle as Flotsam And Jetsam (which is
sailors' slang for goods thrown overboard). Although their first
releases (two demos, called IRON TEARS and METAL SHOCK) saw the day of
light in 1985, F&J's breakthrough was yet to come. In 1986 they signed
a deal with Metal Blade Records and invaded the metal scene with their
thrilling debut album -- DOOMSDAY FOR THE DECEIVER -- which instantly
won them huge acclaim among fans and critics worldwide. However, the
successful beginning of the group's career was soon shattered by the
departure of bass player Jason Newsted to none other than Metallica.
From that moment since, Flotsam And Jetsam had to put up with the
label "Newsted's previous band." But the sudden lineup change did not
stop them from recording a follow-up in 1988, entitled NO PLACE FOR
DISGRACE, which was a far more aggressive offering than the debut and
is still considered one of F&J's best albums. Soon the impressive
popularity of NO PLACE FOR DISGRACE caught the attention of MCA
Records, one of the biggest mainstream record labels. They signed a
deal with Flotsam And Jetsam in 1990, sealed with the release of their
third album, WHEN THE STORM COMES DOWN, later that year. By that time
F&J were tired of the same thrash metal formula they used on their
first two albums and decided to experiment with the sound to gain a
new quality in their music. Thankfully, producer Alex Perialas managed
to perfectly capture F&J's style and seal it in a new, but still
highly recognizable form. The novelties focused mostly around the bass
and guitar sound (adding some groovy and weird parts into the music),
with the former featuring the band's new bassist Troy Gregory (who
left the group after recording the album and joined Prong). NO PLACE
FOR DISGRACE holds some of F&J's most memorable songs, such as "Suffer
The Masses" and "The Master Sleeps" (both released as singles), along
with other highlights like "October Thorns" (featuring some brilliant
guitar soloing) and highly experimental "E.M.T.E.K." Eric A.K.'s
vocals have definitely improved compared to the previous releases,
making the album sound much more diverse. NO PLACE FOR DISGRACE was
Flotsam And Jetsam's debut in a major record label, so the band wanted
to make their music as smooth as possible. This wasn't appreciated by
some fans, but throughout the years the album proved to be a valuable
addition to the band's discography. After its release F&J recorded two
more albums for MCA -- CUATRO (1992) and DRIFT (1995), and afterwards
moved back to Metal Records, where they released another three LPs --
HIGH (1997), UNNATURAL SELECTION (1999) and MY GOD (2001). The band's
most recent full-length offering is DREAMS OF DEATH, released in 2005
by Crash Music. For more than 25 years now, Flotsam And Jetsam are
still active on the metal scene and regularly deliver a solid amount
of prime thrash annihilation. Over the years they have toured with
bands such as Anvil, Fear Factory, Megadeth, Korn, Exciter and many,
many more, becoming a living legend among their fans. Still true to
their roots, all the group members admit: "That's what we are. We're a
metal band. So, love it or leave it, man."

On 8th March 2008 Flotsam And Jetsam will record their performance
during the Metalmania Festival (Katowice, Poland) to be featured on
their new live DVD! Craig Nielsen: "It's finally here! In less then
one week the band starts its European tour! All the dates lead up to
the killer Metalmania festival in Poland with Megadeth, The Dillinger
Escape Plan, and so many other cool bands. We will be filming finally
totally pro DVD from that show. There is going to be eight Sony, top-
of-the-line cameras and an extremely professional crew. We will be
going to some cities the band has never visited before, including
Barcelona, Budapest, and, of course, the town in Poland, Katowice.
When we get back it shouldn't be long before we begin recording the
new record as we have nine songs written and so we are in the last
stage of that process. We are very much looking forward to hanging out
with all of our fans in Europe and having many warm beers. Unless, of
course, Europe has worked out their refrigeration issues which would
be ####ing killer, but there is no such thing as bad European beer,
warm or cold."

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #9 ***
*
-Ion Vein Update

New Vocalist Announced!

We are very pleased to announce the addition of vocalist Allen James
to the band! Allen brings a wealth of stage and studio experience to
the band as well as a ton of energy and we're extremely excited to
have him on board! We started working together back in August last
year and were finally able to get in the studio with Neil in Dec./Jan.
to get vocals down for four tracks to shop. Rather than bore you with
a bunch of hype, we'll just let the music do the talking...check out a
couple rough mixes at http://www.myspace.com/ionvein and we'll see you
on stage soon!

As previously reported, we are tracking our third album with producer
Neil Kernon (Nile, Cannibal Corpse, Nevermore, Deicide) at Rax Trax
studio in Chicago and will be shopping for a new label home upon
completion.

Chicago Powerfest 2008 With Iced Earth, Testament & More!

We will be making our debut with Allen on vocals at this year's
Chicago Powerfest, playing Friday, May 2nd, with Iced Earth, we're
quite stoked about this! Please check out
http://www.chicagopowerfest.com/ for complete details and a list of
all the killer bands playing!

Add us on Myspace!
http://www.myspace.com/ionvein
http://www.myspace.com/chicagopowerfest

All the best,
Chris, Brian, Chuck & Allen

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #10 ***
*
-Mad Margritt Update

The new Mad Margritt video "Loaded Gun" will make its nationwide debut
on Episode 12 of "Rock Nation TV."

Mad Margritt singer Eddie Smith is also featured in this month's Rock
Nation Magazine along with Linkin Park, Three Days Grace, and
Aerosmith's Joe Perry.

For more info on Rock Nation, visit:
http://www.rocknation.us/
http://www.myspace.com/rocknationtv

To check out Mad Margritt's "Loaded Gun" video, go to:
http://www.madmargritt.com/gallery
http://www.myspace.com/madmargritt

Mad Margritt will be making some big announcements in a few weeks
regarding their summer schedule. Be sure to keeping checking their Web
site for details!!

Upcoming Shows:

Friday, March 7 - CHILLS - Thomaston, GA
Saturday, March 8 - TRILOGY - Marietta, GA
Friday, March 14 - THE WILD WING CAFE - Charlotte, NC
Saturday, March 15 - THE WILD WING CAFE - Augusta, GA
Friday, March 21 - THE WILD WING CAFE - Marietta, GA
Saturday, March 22 - THE WILD WING CAFE - Alpharetta, GA
Saturday, March 29 - NAPPER TANDYS - Raleigh, NC
Friday, April 4 - THE DIXIE TAVERN - Marietta, GA
Saturday, April 5 - THE WILD WING CAFE - Suwanee, GA
Friday, April 18 - SIDELINES - Kennesaw, GA
Saturday, April 19 - THE WILD WING CAFÉ - Marietta, GA
Thursday, April 24 - DINGBATZ - Clifton, NJ
Friday, April 25 - SNITCH - New York, NY
Friday, May 2 - PLUM KRAZYS TOO - Greensboro, NC
Saturday, May 3 - NAPPER TANDYS - Raleigh, NC

http://www.madmargritt.com/

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #11 ***
*
-Of The Archaengel CD Available For Download

The dark metallers from Of The Archaengel posted their entire promo CD
THE DANTE'S CHILDREN EXTRAVAGANCE: CHAPTER ALPHA available for
download. It features the tracks "Black Raven (Seeing Involution As
Evolution)," "The Silence Of The Dead Things" and "With The Dragon's
Hand" and was originally released in 2005, receiving great reviews by
the press, including magazines like Elegy Ibérica, Comando Rock,
Roadie Crew, Rock Brigade, RockHard / Valhalla, and others.

Actually the band is finishing the production of their first album,
which details will be available soon.

To know more of their work and download the CD visit the band's
official Web site at http://www.ofthearchaengel.com/ or their MySpace
page at http://www.myspace.com/ofthearchaengel .

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

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #12 ***
*
-Department Of Virtuosity Issue #8

Dear Readers,

The 8th issue of Department Of Virtuosity, as a matter of fact with
one-day delay, has been launched!

There you will find 43 reviews most of whom are virtuoso-oriented
albums: Cyril Achard Trio, Aaron Acosta (2 CDs), Animations, Mike
Campese, Greg Chako, Christmas At The Devil's House, Alex Clements
(3), Counter-World Experience (2), CroonBoom, Rob Favotto, Kevin
Ferguson, The Great Kat (2), Pamela Hines Trio, KeyDragon, kgmr (2),
Carlos Lichman, Sebastian Lorefice, John Macaluso & Union Radio, Mitch
Marcus Quintet, Megaphone Man, Tellef Ogrim, OSV Project, Debbie
Poryes Trio, Alberto Rigoni, Eric Roberts, RPM, Michael Stollaire,
Tangria Jazz Group, thierrytig, Various - GET THE LED OUT! LED
ZEPPELIN SALUTE, Patrick Vega, Georg Wadenius a.k.a. Jojje Wadenius
(2), The Dave Wilson Quartet, Zumbao Trio, Jose Duque's ZumbaTres (2).

The effects are available on: http://www.hmpmag.pl/ (please click the
golden banner of DoV)

Total amount of reviews: 381.

Virtuosic regards and all the best in the New Year of Virtuosity!

Mikolaj 'Nicolo' Furmankiewicz (Head of the DoV and Web site's editor-
in-chief)

Department of Virtuosity at MySpace:
http://www.myspace.com/departmentofvirtuosity

Department of Virtuosity (directory):
http://www.hmpmag.pl/index.php?m=dov

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #13 ***
*
-Medical Condition Forces Trish Doan To Part With Kittie

With sadness Kittie has confirmed the departure of bassist Trish Doan
due to a severe medical condition.

Doan has been diagnosed with the eating disorder anorexia-athletica-
nervosa, which she developed during the recording of Kittie's FUNERAL
FOR YESTERDAY, Doan's first release with the group.

"It breaks my heart to say goodbye to this family that has given me
the best two years of my life," Doan said. "I wish my time with Kittie
did not have to end, but this decision was made based on doctors'
orders. Unfortunately this is the only option that will allow for my
full recovery."

Doan has been battling the disease for nearly two years.

"Trish is a part of our family and her talents and friendship will be
missed by all of us," said Tara McLeod and sisters Mercedes and Morgan
Lander. "We are continuing to be respectful and supportive of Trish's
needs during her period of healing. We wish her the best on her road
to recovery and will remain close to her throughout this difficult
time."

http://www.kittierocks.com/
http://www.myspace.com/officialkittie

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #14 ***
*
-Daylight Dies Gear Up For Tour And Album Release

North Carolina-based Daylight Dies are readying themselves for a busy
spring with their upcoming tour alongside Candlemass and release of
their third album, LOST TO THE LIVING. The tour, set to kick off May
19, finds the band in direct support to the Swedish metal legends and
represents their second national tour since signing with Candlelight
Records in late 2005. The cross-country tour wraps up two weeks prior
to the anticipated June 24 album release date.

In the final mixing process at Fascination Street Studios/Sweden by
Jens Bogren (Opeth, Amon Amarth, Katatonia), LOST TO THE LIVING
features nine new songs from the cherished doom metal band. Working
with Travis Smith (Opeth, Soilwork, Katatonia) for the album's
packaging, it promises to be another fan and critic favorite. Track
listing as of press time (not confirmed running order) is "Cathedral,"
"Descending," "A Subtle Violence," "And A Slow Surrender," "Last
Alone," "Woke Up Lost," "The Morning Light," "At A Loss," "A Portrait
In White." Video footage from the album's recording process is
exclusively available at the band's official Web site (
http://www.daylightdies.com/ ).

Formed in 1996, Daylight Dies drummer Jesse Haff and guitarist Barre
Gambling slowly crafted songs that would make their appearance on the
band's 2002 debut NO REPLY (Relapse). Terrorizer Magazine called the
album "memorable and engaging." Outburn Magazine proclaimed it
"pristine doom metal," while Digital Metal found it to be "a
combination of dark melody and deathly aggression." The quintet would
tour Europe with Katatonia and perform with Lacuna Coil throughout the
U.S. and Canada before writing processes would begin on new material.
Their second album, the impressive DISMANTLING DEVOTION, was released
March 2006 via Candlelight Records. Revolver Magazine called it "an
epic slab of gloom metal that's equal parts apocalyptic rage and
suicidal sorrow." Terrorizer Magazine again applauded the band noting
the album as "an epic journey as thoughtful and compellingly musical
as it is bleak and vengeful... essential." Another U.S. tour, this
time with Moonspell and friends Katatonia, the band including vocalist
Nathan Ellis, bassist Egan O'Rourke, guitarist Charley Shackelford,
together with Gambling and Haff completed 2006 on an all-time high.
Outside of a few local performances the five-piece spent much of 2007
crafting the material that finds itself on LOST FOR THE LIVING.

"Everyone is taking a little time to catch their breath after working
hard on bringing LOST TO THE LIVING to life," says Haff. "We've
continued to refine the music up until the last minute it was recorded
and we all feel confident this is the strongest album we've made. As
stated previously, the material is a mix of beautiful melancholic
leads and harsh dissonant rhythms; despair driven hooks and the
overall dark atmosphere you've come to expect from us. After an
exhausting recording process, the one thing on all of our minds is the
upcoming tour. We can't wait."

Daylight Dies plans to perform selections from each of their records
on the upcoming tour; dates are noted below.

05/19/2008 Jaxx Nite Club - W. Springfield, VA
05/20/2008 BB King Blues Club - New York, NY
05/22/2008 Starland Ballroom - Sayreville, NJ
05/23/2008 Peabody's Down Under - Cleveland, OH
05/24/2008 The Pearl Room - Mokena, IL
05/25/2008 Station 4 - St. Paul, MN
05/28/2008 Studio Seven - Seattle, WA
05/29/2008 Hawthorne Theatre - Portland, OR
05/30/2008 Slim's - San Francisco, CA
05/31/2008 Jumping Turtle - San Marcos, CA
06/01/2008 Whiskey A Go Go - W. Hollywood, CA
06/03/2008 Brickhouse - Phoenix, AZ
06/04/2008 Launch Pad - Albuquerque, NM
06/05/2008 Scout Bar - San Antonio, TX
06/06/2008 Scout Bar - San Antonio, TX
06/07/2008 Ridglea Theater - Ft. Worth, TX
06/08/2008 The Muse - Nashville, TN

http://www.daylightdies.com/
http://www.myspace.com/daylightdies
http://www.candlelightrecordsusa.com/
http://www.myspace.com/candlelightrecordsusa

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #15 ***
*
-Nachtmystium Prepare For World Domination

Nachtmystium prepare for the biggest assault in the band's existence
in 2008...

First, the new WORLDFALL MCD will be released as a precursor to their
upcoming full-length, and will only be available direct from Century
Media as well as iTunes. Then in June falls the release of the
massively anticipated new full-length entitled ASSASSINS: BLACK MEDDLE
PART I. The album will be released on on Century Media Records in
North America and Candlelight Records in Europe (who will also reissue
the band's back catalog for Europe). Cover art for both releases are
posted on Nachtmystium's MySpace page now.

The WORLDFALL tracks were originally intended for a split with
Leviathan that has now been delayed due to legal issues with
Leviathan's record label. Nachtmystium will be recording new tracks
later this year and releasing the split at a later date.

THE ASSASSINS... full-length was recorded in December at Sanford
Parker's Volume Studios (Rwake, Minsk, Lair Of The Minotaur, Pelican,
etc.) and showcases Nachtmystium's most prolific and expansive sounds
to date. The record features Tony Laureano (AngelCorpse, Nile, Dimmu
Borgir, etc.) on drums, and spot appearances by members of Pharaoh and
Yakuza.

Nachtmystium have plans to embark on a full U.S. tour starting when
they return from Europe at the end of May. The tour will be roughly
three weeks and end back in Chicago in late June. More info soon.

WORLDFALL track listing:
1. Worldfall
2. Depravity
3. Solitary Voyage (re-record track from DEMISE LP)
4. Roseclouds of Holocaust (Death In June cover)
5. IV (Goatsnake cover)

ASSASSINS track listing:
1. One Of These Nights (intro)
2. Assassins
3. Ghosts Of Grace
4. Away From Light
5. Your True Enemy
6. Code Negative
7. Omnivore
8. Seasick Part I: Drowned At Dusk
9. Seasick Part II: Oceanborne
10. Seasick Part III: Silent Sunrise

Nachtmystium merch is for sale now at http://www.battlekommand.com/
and http://www.shirtsanddestroy.com/ .

Check out new tracks "Worldfall" from the WORLDFALL EP, and "Your True
Enemy" from ASSASSINS... at:
http://www.myspace.com/nachtmystium

*
*** NEWS/RUMORS ***
*
-There's a new interview with Annihilator main man Jeff Waters at
http://www.ballbustermusic.com/hard_talk/01-2008/annihilator.html .

-New interview with Biomechanical front man John K. at
http://glclk.about.com/?zi=1/4v8K .

-Check out a new interview with Death Angel guitarist Rob Cavestany at
http://glclk.about.com/?zi=1/4v8J .

-Division will gig at Jaxx in W. Springfield, VA on Saturday, March 15
with Arsis, Skeleton Witch, Veil Of Maya, Cab Ride Home, Fallen
Martyr, and Vawarsaw, and will perform at least one new song from the
upcoming album CONTROL ISSUES. Check out http://www.Division-USA.com/
and http://www.MySpace.com/DivisionUSA for information on $10 tickets.
The band also hopes to play some shows this spring with Hatred.

-Check out http://www.rockbiographer.com/ for a new Jeff Pilson
interview where he indicates a reformed Dokken was indeed set to tour
with Cinderella and Warrant this year, but it fell apart. Lynch has
now reformed Lynch Mob (with original singer Oni Logan, bassist Marco
Mendoza, and drummer Tommy Aldridge) to join that tour, which may also
feature Lynam as the opening band.

-Check out a new "album video teaser" for TORN, Evergrey's next album,
at http://evergrey.net/blog .

-LICK IT UP: A MILLENNIUM TRIBUTE TO KISS is due out April 1 on
Versailles Records. It's billed as featuring "current/former members
of Skid Row, Alice Cooper Band, White Lion, Deep Purple, Rainbow,
Warrant, Pretty Boy Floyd, Keel, Britny Fox, Zebra, Ratt, Riot,
Slash's Snakepit, Dio, the Ace Frehley band, The Uptown Horns, Dad's
Porno Mag, L.A. Guns, Lillian Axe, Doro, Dangerous Toys, WatchTower,
and others!"

-There's a trailer for Kreator's upcoming DVD+CD release at
http://www.spv.de/kreator/movie.html . The package is due out on
SPV/Steamhammer as follows: Germany - March 28, Europe - March 31,
U.S.A./Canada - April 8. The DVD will feature a 15-track live show
from East Berlin in 1990, a documentary, and the movie "Hallucinative
Comas – Director's Cut" with deleted scenes and bonus material. The CD
track list: "Some Pain Will Last," "Extreme Aggression," "Under The
Guillotine," "Toxic Trace," "Bringer Of Torture," "Pleasure To Kill,"
"Flag Of Hate," "Terrible Certainty," "Riot Of Violence," "Love Us Or
Hate Us," "Behind The Mirror," "Betrayer," "Awakening Of The Gods,"
"Tormentor." Upcoming Kreator live dates:

4/26 - Karmøygeddon Metal Festival, Haugesund, Norway
5/3 - Hardstyle Evolution Festival, Erstfeld, Switzerland
6/27 - 6/29 - Tuska Open Air, Helsinki, Finland
7/31 - 8/2 - Wacken Open Air, Wacken, Germany

See http://www.kreator-terrorzone.de/ and http://www.all-access.de/
for more.

-Lizzy Borden's video for "Tomorrow Never Comes," from APPOINTMENT
WITH DEATH, is available online at
http://www.metalblade.de/videos/lizzyborden/tomorrownevercomes.wmv .

-Pagan's Mind's Jorn Viggo Lofstad (also from Jorn Lande's solo band)
is working on songs with Floor Jansen (After Forever) for an
as-yet-unnamed project.

-Perfect Symmetry's video for "Evacuate Soul," from MINION OF THE
INSANE, is available online now at
http://de.youtube.com/watch?v=7KDisExDwqg and
http://www.myspace.com/perfect_symmetry . See
http://www.perfect-symmetry.net/ for more.

-Check out this Primal Fear update from http://matsinner.rocks.de/ ,
regarding guitarst Stefan Leibing's replacement in Primal Fear:

"March 4th, 2008 -- Magnus Karlsson joins Primal Fear!

"We've decided to continue with one of the most exciting and respected
guitar player in the business -- Magnus Karlsson from Sweden. Magnus
is known from his excellent work as a guitarist, songwriter and
producer for Allen/Lande, Magnum's Bob Catley, Starbreaker and many
more. We're looking forward to hit the road again with a special Best
Of set list and Magnus will be an additional attraction for the shows.

"Singer Ralf Scheepers comments: 'After working together with Magnus
on several songs for our previous albums SEVEN SEALS and NEW RELIGION,
it's more than a pleasure to have him in the band now. In my ears he
is one of the most talented guitarists on this planet and he is also
an excellent composer. I absolutely look forward to rock the stages of
this world with him!'

"Magnus Karlsson added: 'I've been a big fan of Primal Fear since I
first heard them. I love their straight forward metal in combination
with beautiful melodies and a world class musicianship. That's why I'm
both honored and excited to join Primal Fear on their mission to show
the world that Metal is forever!'

"It looks like we're planning to get back into the recording studio
after the summer festival season to work on a new album."

-Most of the lineup has been announced for this year's Rocklahoma
festival, set for July 10-13 at the Catch The Fever Festival Grounds
near Pryor, OK. Thursday, July 10 will feature Bret Michaels, L.A.
Guns, Enuff Z'Nuff (possibly with Jake E. Lee on guitar), Vain, House
Of Lords, and Jetboy. (House Of Lords may be on a different day.)
Friday, July 11: Triumph, Extreme, Night Ranger, Kingdom Come, Armored
Saint, and XYZ. Saturday, July 12: Cinderella, Warrant (with Jani
Lane), Kix, Trixter, Black 'N Blue (with Jaime St. James), Tora Tora,
Every Mother's Nightmare, and Pretty Boy Floyd. Sunday, July 13:
Tesla, Lynch Mob, Zebra, Beautiful Creatures, and Axe.

-Van Halen was thrown for a loop when Eddie Van Halen had to undergo
medical tests. According to a statement from the band's managment, the
guitarist "is undergoing a battery of comprehensive medical tests to
determine a defined diagnosis and recommended medical procedures."
Several shows slated for this week were rescheduled for April. In
related news, check out a fun David Lee Roth clip on YouTube -- where
audio of him singing "Running With The Devil" back in the '70s is
mashed up with critiques from the "American Idol" judges -- at
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Xp9o6Ux563g .

-Whitesnake's GOOD TO BE BAD is due out next month from
SPV/Steamhammer. Track list: "Best Years," "Can You Hear The Wind
Blow," "Call On Me," "All I Want All I Need," "Good To Be Bad," "All
For Love," "Summer Rain," "Lay Down Your Love," "A Fool In Love," "Got
What You Need," "'Til The End Of Time." There will be two different
limited edition versions of the album: a CD with a bonus disc
featuring seven live tracks and a video, and a double gatefold vinyl
release featuring a bonus live track. See http://www.whitesnake.com/
for more.

-Winger's LIVE CD and DVD are now available at
http://www.wingertheband.com/ for $14.99 and $16.99, respectively.

Thanks to Nancy B. Sayle, John Sternberg, Ray Miller, Ray Waddell,
Chad Bowar, Bill "Smeagol" Kotowski, and Jeff "Message Boards" Adee
for help gathering some of this information.

*
*** ROCK HARD RIDE FREE ***
*
by Tim Wadzinski (tsw512@...)

-R.I.P. Gary Gygax. The co-creator of the role-playing game Dungeons &
Dragons died this week. Along with heavy metal music, D&D served as a
major (and thus far, never-ending) bond between some of my college
buddies and me. I've been a gamer and a metalhead for roughly the same
amount of time (25 years, give or take) and the two interests have
been virtually melded together for me. I've had D&D characters
inspired by metal bands and songs (Judas the priest, a guy named after
the D.A.D tune "Black Crickets," badass warriors called Overkill and
Manowar, a location in one of my game worlds known as Ian Hill, etc.),
and I've gravitated towards metal bands that sing about fantasy topics
(Blind Guardian, Rhapsody, Virgin Steele, Dio, Maiden, HammerFall, and
countless others). And I think I've told this story here before but
one of my crowning achievements in high school was writing a bogus
book report on a novel I made up -- I forget the title I concocted but
it was allegedly written by Mr. Gygax and the plot followed that of
Kiss' concept album MUSIC FROM "THE ELDER." (My teacher gave me an "A"
and had no clue it was 100% fabricated.) Good times all the way
around. I could go on forever. Thanks for the memories, Gary. I look
forward to sharing all this with my kid one day. :)

-I finished Martin Popoff's excellent Judas Priest biography, "Heavy
Metal Painkillers - An Illustrated History," and one particular quote
stuck with me. I forget which album guitarist K.K. Downing was talking
about but he said something like "it holds up as a recorded record
that you can listen to." At first this seems quite Spinal Tappish but
after listening so much to Lizzy Borden's latest (APPOINTMENT WITH
DEATH; see my review in last week's issue) I get what K.K.'s saying --
he means the entire album is worth listening to. This is why I can't
ever truly see myself being a devoted iPodder. I like albums too much.
I really love finding an album where you can sit and listen to the
whole thing, rather than skip over five or six tracks. To me it just
proves the band is good and worth my attention!

-Last week I was blabbing about Tip "Ripper" Owens joining Yngwie
Malmsteen's band. Neal quickly jumped in and e-slapped me into
remembering Owens and Malmsteen have worked together before, teaming
up to cover "Mr. Crowley" on the BAT'S HEAD SOUP Ozzy tribute album.
Yep, duh. My bad. Pulled it out and listened again yesterday, and it's
pretty good. (So is the whole album, truth be told.)

-Now in my current playlist: Whitesnake - "All For Love"
(SPV/Steamhammer), Winger - LIVE (Shrapnel Records), The Tangent - NOT
AS GOOD AS THE BOOK (InsideOut Music), METALLIMANIA (DVD) (REISSUE)
(Killing Time Productions).

*
*** REVIEWS ***
*
LINDSEY BOULLT - COMPOSITION (A-) indie, 2007
10 tracks, RT: 40:00
[ http://www.lindseyboullt.com/ ]
[ http://www.mi.edu/ ]
Lindsey Boullt's name may not be instantly recognizable in the world
of excellent fusion guitarists, but it certainly should be. On
COMPOSITION, the San Francisco musician and MI instructor effortlessly
blends world influences including Arabic and East Indian flavors with
fusion and heavy rock to create music that is both challenging and
engaging. On expertly crafted and often hypnotic pieces such as the
eerie "Moving Panvishnu," affective "Call For Peace," crushing "Bravo
Daro De La Torre," and deceptively tricky "Aurora's Aura," Lindsey
keeps things exciting and interesting by avoiding the temptation to
shred over everything (although when he does, it's breathtaking).
Lindsey shares the instrumental spotlight with some of the best in the
business, including veteran heavyweights such as keyboardist Derek
Sherinian, drummer Atma Anur, bassist Stu Hamm and violinist Jerry
Goodman. Lindsey has a fondness for odd time signatures, and while
they are found throughout COMPOSITION, nowhere are they more
effectively used that on closer "Cleopatra's Third Eye," a veritable
study in time changes. Not to fear, however, you don't have to know
your 7/4's from 9/8's to enjoy COMPOSITION, although an ear for fusion
helps. Drawing on influences as divergent as Mahavishnu Orchestra,
Allan Holdsworth, Led Zeppelin and Joe Satriani, Lindsey has produced
a work of considerable breadth that should place his name on the lips
of fusion fanatics and guitar hero enthusiasts everywhere.
- Neal Woodall (MysticX9@...)

BUSHWHACK (B-) Bushwhack Entertainment, 2007
13 tracks, RT: 71:06
[ http://www.bushwhackmusic.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/bushwhack ]
Connecticut-based four piece Bushwhack's eponymous debut finds the
quartet exploring some diverse and interesting territory indeed,
effectively sidestepping the current trend among many prog-oriented
bands to embellish excessively. Bushwhack have a good ear for basic
composition and themes, drawing the listener in on infectious tracks
such as "The Greatest Wall," "Sea Of Tranquility," "Sever The Sky,"
and "In Flames." The music tends to vacillate between almost New Age
soundscapes and prog-tinged modern metal, and much of it works due to
this unique concoction. Somehow I think the group would benefit from
either a vocalist or increased instrumentation, as some of the songs
meander a bit, seemingly in need of something else to maintain focus
and interest. Otherwise, what you have here is a young band who have
already learned to effectively combine classic and current influences
into an original style, BUSHWHACK whetting my appetite for a follow-
up. Keep your eye on 'em.
- Neal Woodall (MysticX9@...)

MIND'S EYE - A GENTLEMAN'S HURRICANE (A-/B+) Lion Music, 2007
13 tracks, RT: 74:42
[ http://www.danielflores.net/minds_eye_website/indexstart.html ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/eyeofthemind ]
[ http://www.lionmusic.com/cd/agh.htm ]
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[ http://www.lionmusic.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/lionmusiclabel ]
Mind's Eye follow up their acclaimed 2006 disc WALKING ON H20 with the
equally gratifying A GENTLEMAN'S HURRICANE. Taking a page from such
concept albums as OPERATION:MINDCRIME and STREETS: A ROCK OPERA
(lyrically if not stylistically), Mind's Eye ably tell a similarly
woeful tale, in this case about an assassin. Early in the proceedings
you get some strong material such as "AssassiNation" and "Chaos
Unleashed," but it's in the last part of the album that things really
kick into high gear, "Ashes To Ashes (In Land Lullaby)" really dialing
things up a notch along with the ultimately spirited "Red Winter
Sirens," heavy groove rocker "Skin Crawl," and persistent "Say
Goodnight." A GENTLEMAN'S HURRICANE is heavier than its predecessors,
and I think that suits the music well, like on the robust "Feed My
Revolver." There are a few rather standard tracks and some of the
lyrics are a bit derivative and clumsy, but overall A GENTLEMAN'S
HURRICANE is a cogent conceptual outing falling somewhere between
melodic prog and art metal. Although not sent to me, apparently the
commercial package includes a comic book outlining the story and a
"making of" DVD which includes a video for "Feed My Revolver" along
with the documentary, making this even more well-worth picking up.
- Neal Woodall (MysticX9@...)

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