Detritus
Issue #472
Week of September 22, 2008
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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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-A trifecta of press releases about the Indianapolis Metal Fest, and a
trifecta of reviews by Sean. Weird, eh? - Tim
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*** PRESS RELEASE #1 ***
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-Rush Set To Release Live, Three-Disc DVD November 25
Zoë Vision/Anthem Entertainment is pleased to announce the release of
the SNAKES & ARROWS LIVE DVD on November 25 from the legendary rock
trio Rush. This three-disc DVD set, also available as a Blu-ray Disc,
follows their Zoë Vision DVD releases Rush - R30 (2005) and Rush -
RUSH IN RIO (2003).
The SNAKES & ARROWS LIVE DVD (full track listing below) was filmed
with 21 High Definition cameras in 16x9 widescreen format, over two
nights in October 2007 at the Netherlands' Ahoy Rotterdam arena during
the renowned rock trio's lengthy world tour. Additional SD footage was
filmed in Atlanta this past July. The five month trek supporting
Rush's critically acclaimed 2007 studio release, SNAKES & ARROWS,
which includes the Grammy® Award-nominated track, "Malignant
Narcissism," topped Pollstar's Top 100 2007 Tours list at #12.
While previous DVD releases showcase different sides of the band, this
DVD offers fans a rare and close up look at the prodigious
musicianship for which the band is renown. Cameras follow bassist and
vocalist Geddy Lee, guitarist Alex Lifeson and drummer Neil Peart,
closely, capturing not only their playing, note for note, but also the
intimacy they share on stage. The diverse track list includes many new
songs from SNAKES & ARROWS as well as old favorites like "Tom Sawyer"
and "Freewill" plus an explosive rendition of "Between The Wheels."
Among the hidden gems and numerous special tour moments included as
extras is the fan coveted "What's That Smell" vignette and outtakes, a
skit used to intro the second set, which capitalizes on the still
emerging comedic talents of both Alex and Geddy who excel (and revel)
in their roles as wild characters. Featuring collector's quality
packaging and a choice of Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound or PCM
Stereo for a superior audio experience, the DVD was mixed by frequent
collaborator Richard Chycki (Aerosmith, Mick Jagger). Total running
time is 221 minutes.
SNAKES & ARROWS made a triumphant debut on the Billboard 200 upon its
release May 2007, entering the chart in the #3 spot. The album's
popular success marked Rush's highest chart debut since 1993, as well
as the group's eleventh top ten album in the U.S. SNAKES& ARROWS also
debuted at #3 in the band's native Canada and at #13 in the U.K. --
the band's highest British chart ranking in 16 years. In addition, the
album premiered in the top ten in Sweden and Finland, and in the top
twenty in Norway, the Netherlands, and Japan.
Since releasing their self-titled debut album in 1974, Rush has been
universally regarded as one of the most inventive and compelling
groups in rock, famed for virtuoso musicianship. Celebrated,
critically acclaimed and respected worldwide, Rush is the most
successful Canadian rock band of all time and they remain one of the
biggest grossing arena rock bands ever. Their extraordinary body of
work -- which includes such acclaimed works as 1976's 2112, 1981's
MOVING PICTURES, 1996's TEST FOR ECHO, and 2002's VAPOR TRAILS -- has
achieved worldwide sales exceeding 35 million units.
Track Listing:
Disc 1
1. Limelight
2. Digital Man
3. Entre Nous
4. Mission
5. Freewill
6. The Main Monkey Business
7. The Larger Bowl
8. Secret Touch
9. Circumstances
10. Between The Wheels
11. Dreamline
Extras:
1. What's That Smell (DVD Content)
2. 2007 Tour Outtakes
3. What's That Smell Outtakes
4. Far Cry (Alternate cut featuring rear screen footage)
5. The Way The Wind Blows (Alternate cut featuring rear screen
footage)
6. Red Sector A from the R30 Tour
Disc 2
1. Far Cry
2. Workin' Them Angels
3. Armor And Sword
4. Spindrift
5. The Way The Wind Blows
6. Subdivisions
7. Natural Science
8. Witch Hunt
9. Malignant Narcissism - De Slagwerker
10. Hope
11. Distant Early Warning
12. The Spirit Of Radio
13. Tom Sawyer
Encore:
14. One Little Victory
15. A Passage To Bangkok
16. YYZ
Disc 3
Oh, Atlanta - The Authorized Bootlegs
1. Ghost Of A Chance
2. Red Barchetta
3. The Trees
4. 2112/The Temples Of Syrinx
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*** PRESS RELEASE #2 ***
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-Dangerous Toys, Junkyard And Helix Added To Rock Gone Wild 2009
ALGONA, IOWA -- They might come from different parts of North America,
but in August 2009, Dangerous Toys, Junkyard and Helix will join
forces in Algona, Iowa for the inaugural Rock Gone Wild festival. The
festival is slated for August 20-23, 2009. Rock Gone Wild will feature
more than 50 bands on two stages over four days of hard rock and heavy
metal. The festival promises four decades of rock n' roll debauchery
at its finest!
Dangerous Toys formed in Texas in 1987. They immediately impacted
radio and MTV with hits like "Teas'n, Pleas'n" and "Scared." The band
has released four studio albums, a live disc and a greatest hits
compilation. The current Dangerous Toys lineup features Jason McMaster
(vocals), Paul Lidel and Scott Dalhover (guitars), Mike Watson (bass)
and Mark Geary (drums).
Like many bands from the 1980s, blues-based rockers Junkyard saw their
beginnings in Los Angeles. Forming in 1987, the band got their start
with a little cash from Geffen Records. The band made some demos and
later released a self-titled debut album. Junkyard has released seven
albums, including early demos, live cuts and the recent PUT IT ON TEN
AND PULL THE KNOBS OFF! The current Junkyard lineup features David
Roach (vocals), Chris Gates (guitar and vocals), Tim Mosher (guitar),
Todd Muscat (bass) and Patrick Muzingo (drums).
Canadian rockers Helix formed in 1974 and hit their stride in the
early 1980s, releasing songs like "Heavy Metal Love" and "Rock You."
To date, Helix has well over a dozen albums to their credit. That
discography will grow as Helix prepares to release A HEAVY METAL
CHRISTMAS in the next few weeks. The current Helix lineup features
Brian Vollmer (vocals), Paul Fonseca (bass), Jim Lawson (guitar), Rick
VanDyk (guitar) and Brent Niemi (drums).
Dangerous Toys, Junkyard and Helix will join Saigon Kick on the Rock
Gone Wild festival roster. Rock Gone Wild marks the only festival
appearance for Saigon Kick -- featuring Matt Kramer and Phil Varone --
in 2009.
Rock Gone Wild artists will chat online exclusively with festival
ticket-holders. This exciting interactive experience kicks off in the
coming weeks and will continue until August 2009. Fans must purchase a
ticket to chat with your favorite musician! Visit
http://www.rockgonewild.com/ for more information.
Rock Gone Wild will take place at the Freedom Park festival grounds,
located at 2507 160th Avenue in Algona, Iowa. While Algona is a rural
community, the area is close to many hotels and both the Des Moines
and Minneapolis airports are easily accessible.
Both platinum and VIP seating is severely limited. Rock fans from more
than 30 states and five countries have already purchased tickets. This
means over half of the platinum seating area is already sold -- so
fans should act fast if they want to get wild in August 2009.
Rock now. Rock on. Rock wild.
http://www.rockgonewild.com/
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*** PRESS RELEASE #3 ***
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-HammerFall Continues Recording New Album
Swedish melodic metallers HammerFall entered Andy La Rocque's (King
Diamond) Sonic Train Studios in Varberg, Sweden on September 22 to
continue recording their eighth full-length album, due on February 20,
2009 via Nuclear Blast Records.
The as-yet-untitled CD will include an instrumental written by the
group's latest addition, guitarist Pontus Norgren (The Poodles,
Talisman, Great King Rat), and a song entitled "One Of A Kind," which
was written as a collaboration between HammerFall guitarist Oscar
Dronjak and In Flames axeman Jesper Strömblad (who was a member of
HammerFall in the band's earliest incarnation).
Pontus Norgren joined HammerFall as the replacement for Stefan
Elmgren, who left the band in early April to focus on his new career
as a pilot.
http://www.hammerfall.net/
http://www.myspace.com/hammerfall
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*** PRESS RELEASE #4 ***
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-New MVD Exclusive Title: Kip Winger
Kip Winger - FROM THE MOON TO THE SUN
The general balance and atmosphere of FROM THE MOON... is very
reminiscent of Kip Winger's previous solo albums. A highly textured,
harmonious tapestry of sounds and influences from his own pop/rock
sensibilities to Middle Eastern flavors as heard in the opening "Every
Story Told" with its string surges and a lively Andy Timmons solo, to
the instrumental "Ghosts," conjuring up imagery of Ingmar Bergman
movies and Prokofiev soundtracks. Whereas the massive "Nothing" would
fit neatly into the Winger - IV album. Most songwriters dry up by the
time they are 30, whereas Kip Winger continues to produce and compose
so much high caliber music its uncanny. This latest epic is possibly
his greatest effort so far.
CD
SKU #: MVDA4798
UPC: 760137479826
SRP: $14.95
BOX LOT: 30
RUN TIME: 53 mins.
LABEL: VARSEAUBIZ
GENRE: Pop/Rock
PRE-BOOK DATE: 09/23/2008
STREET DATE: 10/28/2008
HI-RES IMAGE: http://files.dvdnote.com/images/300dpi/mvda4798.jpg
SALES SHEET (PDF): http://files.dvdnote.com/pdfs/mvda4798.pdf
MVD on the web: http://www.mvdb2b.com/
MVD phone: 1-800-888-0486
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*** PRESS RELEASE #5 ***
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-Stevie Wonder Tribute: Greg Howe, Kiko Loureiro, Bill Hudson & More
Join Vernon Neilly
HOLLYWOOD, CA -- Stevie Wonder like you have never heard him before is
what you get in Vernon Neilly and Friends - A TRIBUTE TO STEVIE WONDER
on Boosweet Records.
Taking an array of world class musicians and utilizing their talents
with their different genre styles gave this tribute compilation a
unique and tasty rendition to these iconic bodies of work. From jazz
fusion, blues to the heavy metal over tones on Superstition the
arrangements give a new dynamic to classic Stevie Wonder.
This masterpiece includes Grammy Award winning bassist Juan Nelson
(Ben Harper And The Innocent Criminals), guitar virtuoso Greg Howe
(Michael Jackson, Justin Timberlake, N-Sync, Enrique Iglesias), guitar
virtuoso Kiko Loureiro (Angra), jazz guitar sensation U-Nam, guitar
virtuoso Bill Hudson (Cellador, Coldera, Fresh Meat), sax sensation
and virtuoso Michael Paulo (Al Jarreau, Earth Wind and Fire, Peter
White), and some new stunning vocal talent in Fabyan Irving (U.S.A.),
Cristopher Clark (Brazil), and Carlos Zema (Brazil).
As was stated previously, you may have heard the works of Stevie
Wonder re-done before at some point in time, but you have never heard
Stevie like this!
TRACK LISTING:
1. Boogie On Reggae Woman Instrumental - Vernon Neilly feat. Greg Howe
2. I Wish - Kiko Loureiro
3. Superstition - Bill Hudson feat. Carlos Zema on vocals
4. Sir Duke - Miguel Mega feat. Cristopher Clark on vocals
5. Isn't She Lovely - Vernon Neilly feat. Fabyan Irving on vocals
6. I Was Made to Love You - U-NAM
7. Don't You Worry Bout A Thing - Kiko Loureiro
8. For Once In My Life - Miguel Mega feat. Cristopher Clark on vocals
9. Boogie On Reggae Woman - Vocal Version Vernon Neilly feat. Greg
Howe
10. Isn't She Lovely (Instrumental) - Vernon Neilly
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*** PRESS RELEASE #6 ***
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-Z Records News
Eden's OBLIVION Hits The Streets
Eden's all new album OBLIVION is now available at all good record
stores and direct from Z at our online store at
http://www.zrecords.net/ .
The band is currently lining up a series of live shows to support the
release; news will be posted here as soon as anything is confirmed.
Did You Attend Z Rock 07? If So Please Contact Us A.S.A.P.
If you attended Z Rock 07 please contact us at
zrockagency@... urgently as your suggestions and comments are
required.
http://www.zrecords.net/
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*** PRESS RELEASE #7 ***
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-Shrapnel Records Releases Label Catalog On iTunes
HOLLYWOOD, CA -- World famous Shrapnel Records finally releases
catalog for downloads on iTunes. Shrapnel Records is best known as a
guitar-oriented record label which was started in 1980 by record
producer Mike Varney.
Shrapnel Records helped launch dozens of careers for many technically
adept guitarists such as Vinnie Moore, Yngwie Malmsteen, Tony
MacAlpine, Paul Gilbert, Bruce Bouillet, Joey Tafolla, Jason Becker,
Phantom Blue, Greg Howe, Richie Kotzen and Marty Friedman to name a
few.
The following are the currently available downloads from Shrapnel
Records and its subdivisions.
Shrapnel Records Catalog List:
SH-1014 Keel - LAY DOWN THE LAW
SH-1179 Marc Rizzo - COLOSSAL MYOPIA
SH-1181 L.A. Guns - TALES FROM THE STRIP
SH-1182 John 5 - SONGS FOR SANITY
SH-1183 Vinnie Moore - VINNIE MOORE COLLECTION
SH-1184 Tony MacAlpine - TONY MACALPINE COLLECTION
SH 1185 L.A. Guns - LOUD AND DANGEROUS LIVE
SH-1187 Paul Gilbert - GET OUT OF MY YARD
SH-1190 Winger - IV
SH-1191 Marc Rizzo - ULTIMATE DEVOTION
SH-1192 Great White - BACK TO THE RHYTHM
SH-1193 Timelord - REGENERATION
SH-1195 Winger - LIVE
SH-1196 Paul Gilbert - SILENCE FOLLOWED BY A DEAFENING ROAR
Blues Bureau CD List:
BB-2050 Stony Curtis - ACID BLUES EXPERIENCE
BB-2056 Marc Ford - WEARY AND WIRED
BB-2057 Chris Duarte - BLUE VELOCITY
BB-2059 Stony Curtis - RAW AND REAL
BB-2060 Eric Gales - THE STORY OF MY LIFE
BB02061 Marc Ford - NEPTUNE BLUES CLUB
BB-2062 Chris Duarte - VANTAGE POINT
Tone Center CD List:
TC-4035 A GUITAR SUPREME - GIANT STEPS IN FUSION GUITAR
TC-4040 VISIONS OF AN INNER MOUNTING APOCALYPSE - A TRIBUTE TO
MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA
TC-4041 A TRIBUTE TO MILES DAVIS - A BITCHIN' BREW
TC-4047 THE ROYAL DAN - STEELY DAN TRIBUTE
TC-4052 VIVA CARLOS! A SUPERNATURAL MARATHON CELEBRATION
TC-4057 FREEWAY JAM - BECK TRIBUTE
TC 4064 Greg Howe - SOUNDPROOF
TC 4065 Ohm: - CIRCUS OF SOUND
More artists will be released over the next year so stay tuned to
iTunes.
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*** PRESS RELEASE #8 ***
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-Two Side Moon/SLW Promotions Announcement
TSM/SLW Promotions are delighted to welcome to the gang Sweden's new
sensations Badmouth produced by Paul Sabu.
Band: Badmouth
Album: BADMOUTH
Genre: Rock/Metal/Glam
Label: Romulus X Records
Release Date: September 29th
Web links:
http://www.romulusxrecords.com/
http://www.badmouththeband.com/
http://www.myspace.com/badmouthswe
Forged in the furnace of the European rock scene, Badmouth has
captured the attention of fans around the world, and the eye of
industry pros even before the release of their first album. The guys
wanted to write rock tunes that stood out from the rest, drawing on
the classic rock roots of bands like Dokken, AC/DC, Guns N' Roses and
Aerosmith, that have been lost in the drone of today's rock music.
Tom, Chris, Randy, Mike and Rick realized that their job didn't end
with writing their music, it had to be recorded and produced by the
right people. Their self-titled debut album was produced at Fortrocks
Studio in California by the renowned producer Paul Sabu. The end
result? An album that hooks rock and roll junkies with an addictive
mix of driving beats, rich vocals and tons of attitude.
With the September 29, 2008 release of their self-titled debut album,
Badmouth will be taking the world by storm. Driven by an unwavering
dedication to their music and fans, Badmouth is true to rock's
rebellious roots. Fueling their drive, the guys chose to partner with
indie label Romulus X Records. The combination of the two promises
rock junkies what they crave; pure unfiltered rock.
Badmouth are:
Tom Pearson - Vocals
Mike Hill - Rhythm Guitar
Randy Joy - Lead Guitar
Chris LeMon - Bass Guitar
Rick Hard - Drums
PRESS
"We will be hearing an awful lot more of Badmouth as time goes by, as
their infectious brand of rock will appeal to a very large cross
section of fans." - Paul Williams, Hardrockhouse.com
"Singer Tom Pearson sounds like a young Don Dokken..." - Fireworks
Magazine
**UK Radio Station ARFM aired Badmouth's "Hell Tonight" on the Steve
Price show on Sunday 21st September.
TSM/SLW Promotions are delighted to welcome to the gang Where Angels
Fall from Oslo, Norway.
Band: Where Angels Fall
Album: MARIONETTES
Genre: Metal/Goth/Rock
Release Date: October 25th
Web links:
http://www.whereangelsfall.com/
http://www.myspace.com/whereangelsfall
Where Angels Fall have been playing together since 2004 and is well
known in the goth and metal scenes in Norway and abroad. The band have
played on large and small venues in Norway -- like John Dee,
Rockefeller and the Quartfestival (2005) -- and have gained a
reputation as an energic and solid live band. The band have also
shared stage with bands like Mortiis, Malice In Wonderland, Theatre Of
Tragedy, Mortal Love and Inkubus Sukkubus.
In the summer of 2004, the band released the EP DIES IRAE which got
good reviews both in Norway and abroad. This led to a contract with
Norwegian record label Edgerunner Music, and the full-length album
ILLUMINATE was released by Edgerunner Music and distributed by Voices
Music & Entertainment in 2006.
The band have just recorded and mastered an album with nine songs,
which is ready for release.
Genre
Where Angels Fall can be described as groovy metal, with elements of
goth, classical orchestration and electronica. Angelic female vocals
stands as a contrast to the heavy riffing and energic drumming. The
band uses pre-recorded choirs and electronic elements live to give the
audience the full spectrum of what distinguishes Where Angels Fall.
Audience
Where Angels Fall meets a broad audience with their music. The
contrasts between the soft and the hard combined with catchy choruses
makes sure every crowd gets an excellent live experience!
Where Angels Fall are:
Eirin Bendigtsen - Lead vocals
Andre Bendigtsen - Lead guitars and programming
Espen Lohne - Bass
PRESS
"Having spent some years in the metal scene myself, I was attracted to
the 'dark side' of the music but Eirin's vocals won me over, as the
mesh of subtlety and gravity is a winning combination. Bands like
Leaves' Eyes, Lacuna Coil and Angtoria also do a great job in this
vein (as examples) and I expect only better things from Where Angels
Fall in the future" - Graveconcernzine
"Her voice is sweet and soft, although not very innovative, the song
contains quite some instrumental parts and due to little variation it
gets a bit monotonous, this songs takes more than six minutes and that
is a bit too long. 'Trusting You' is introduced with a piano and the
emphasis is more put on the female vocals. This makes Eirin better in
showing in what her vocal capabilities are. 'Dies Irae' shows a more
classic and symphonic character that is more often heard in female
fronted metal bands" - Gothtronic
"They mix a lot of nice elements together as: Melodic Dark Metal,
Gothic Metal, Symphonic Metal and I also think there is some Gregorian
influences in their music. The songs are built up on great way with
beautiful angelic singing, floating synths and nice piano playing. The
guitars has a dark and heavy sound and together with the bass and
drums they manage to get what I want to say a huge sound" - Melodic
Hard Rock Today
"One considers however the fact that the melody runs skillfully
together placed with Epica or After Forever the ambitious songs under
the line only a further Gothic Metal volume those how thousands before
it, over the listener pours its soul agonies in music" - Metal
District
TSM/SLW Promotions are delighted to welcome to the gang hard working
rockers Hard Spirit from Spain.
Band: Hard Spirit
Album: WALK THE WILD
Label: Triple A-Metal
Genre: Rock/Metal
Release Date: Out Now
Web links:
http://www.hard-spirit.com/
http://www.myspace.com/hardspirit
Hard Spirit was born in 2002. It was a big bet from the outset. The
path was set by fusing together the perfect mix of '80s stadium rock
and modern rock.
In 2003 Hard Spirit released their first demo CD. It was only eight
tracks but it managed to sell more than 2,000 copies around Spain.
After this achievement, the band became more confident and started
work on their debut full-length CD.
During this time, Hard Spirit won seven music contests. The band gave
a great performance at the Plaza de Toros de Gijón for over 10,000
people with huge success which included an encore to end the set.
Together with other Spanish bands in the sales charts such as Pereza
and M-Clan, Hard Spirit shared the stage with big rock bands such as
Jaded Heart, Soul Doctor, Mad Max or Bob Catley, performing over 40
shows in every corner of the country.
When the band had completed the writing for the debut CD at the
beginning of 2006, thet set about locating in a producer. In walks
Dani G. who had previously worked with Ingo Cjakovski (Rage), Achim
Köhler (Primal Fear, Sinner), Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69, Sunstorm)
and Lars Ratz. Dani G. was the ideal candidate. He knew how to capture
the band's essence from the start.
In June 2007, the band conquered the Villa de Bilbao, without a doubt
the most prestigious music contest in Europe with over 32,000 Euros in
prizes and over 2,000 candidate bands to win even recording sessions
in the U.S.
Hard Spirit won the "GRAB" awards, a French clothes wear company who
will take of merchendising. Toni Amboaje was voted as the best singer
in the contest and Gansan was voted as the best guitarist.
Hard Spirit signed a contract to launch the album at the end of
September 2007 with Triple A-Metal Records and it will be distributed
all over Spain through Avispa.
After the album WALK THE WILD was completed, the first reviews were
awesome, even stating that this is one of the best rock albums ever
made in Spain.
Magazines like Rock Hard, who named the CD the best record of the
month for first time for a Spanish band in eight years of the
magazine's existence and the third best relases in 2007. Heavy Rock,
La Estadea, Fireworks (UK), MetalSymphony and many more blogs and
publications, named the band like one of the best of the year and the
revelation band of 2007.
Late 2007 and early 2008 the band opened several shows for big bands
like Y&T, Gotthard, Mago De Oz and many more with very successful
feedback from the fans and critics.
Now Hard Spirit is ready to keep its energetic and fantastic
performance live and to write their own chapter in the history of
rock.
Hard Spirit are:
Toni Amboaje - Lead vocals
Gansan - Lead guitar
Miguel Rubio - Rhythm guitar & backing vocals
Davo Camporro - Bass & backing vocals
David Menen - Drums & percussion
PRESS
"If you don't know who are Hard Spirit you can't wait a minute more to
discovered. They do like big bands do, they susprise you in every
song. Very good!" - Discodromo 8,5
"Hard Spirit susprise us with a great album of hard rock. No
experiments, no complex, just music from the heart. Very Very good.
They have made an almost perfect mix between the classic and modern
rock with a personal stamp. They don't try to copy. They made in their
own way in every part to give a personality in every song." - Rafa
Basa 8,5
"Our impress after the listening is that we're in front of a band
really important with a very good future." - Corsarios del metal 9
"One of the best album of the history of rock in Spain. They are big
words, but I'm sure of it. Make a favor yourself and get it." - Hall
Of Metal 9
"One of the best band of American rock of the last years" - Rock total
8,4
"After the umpteenth listening of this extraordinary album I still
can't go out from my astonishment. The best work of the month for
first time for a Spanish band and one of the best of the year." - Rock
Hard 9 (Also voted best album of the month)
"I could distinguish every song of the album, there's no filler song,
all songs are deliberate. WALK THE WILD is a complete album,
entertaining, classic and modern. They get inside of you if you like
Bon Jovi, Guns N' Roses, Skid Row, Bryan Adams..." - Metal Dreams 8,75
Two Side Moon/SLW Promotions Announcement September 2008
TSM/SLW Promotions are delighted to welcome to the gang Octane Gypsy
from Hollywood, California.
Band: Octane Gypsy
Album: TOUGH LUCK MILE EP
Genre: Classic Rock/Blues Rock
Release Date: Out Now
Web links:
http://www.octanegypsyband.com/
http://www.myspace.com/octanegypsy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNOskWiOc5s
Cliche tho it may be, Brian and Eleanor met on the Sunset Strip via a
mutual friend who was wearing leopard print pants and a Motley Crue
shirt. Walking down the strip, sharing their frustration with the '80s
glam throwbacks and new age trash, a musical spark was lit.
From there on out, they started writing together and not too long
after, Octane Gypsy was born. With Brian's mix of Richards-esque
rhythm and Slash-style leads, he compliments Eleanor's gritty, bluesy
pipes. This is classic rock with a modern twist, this is real rock n
roll, this is...what we've all been waiting for, enjoy!
Octane Gypsy are:
Eleanor Goldfield - Lead vocals
Brian Swede - Lead guitars
PRESS
"Octane Gypsy combines classic rock and traditional blues,then mixes
in powerhouse vocals to form a sound that is heavy, huge and a whole
lot of rock 'n' roll" - Sheena Metal Music Highway Radio
"Octane Gypsy is a rock band down to the core. The contrast between
the gut-wrenching guitar licks to the soaring female vocals makes them
a class 'A' rock act that draws people every time" - Brixton, South
Bay
TSM/SLW Promotions
http://www.myspace.com/nickyaor
http://www.slwpromotions.com/
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*** PRESS RELEASE #9 ***
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-BW&BK Can Be Found In More U.S. Stores Than Ever Before!
BW&BK has inked a new deal with RetailVision in the United States
which will see BW&BK Magazine in more U.S. retail outlets than ever
before! RetailVision creates and manages specialty magazine sales
programs for specialty retailers which means BW&BK will be found on
more music-centered store shelves including FYE, Strawberries,
Coconuts and many others across America!.
RetailVision distributed the latest issue of BW&BK (#112 - Slipknot
cover) into hundreds "more" retail outlets in the U.S. The program
will continue with BW&BK's massive next issue (#113) which is our top
selling year-end issue!
BW&BK #113 will street in mid-November.
Also featured in BW&BK #113: METALLICA, AC/DC, ALICE COOPER, EVERGREY,
LAMB OF GOD, THE HAUNTED, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, DIMMU BORGIR, NEVERMORE,
CYNIC, BLACK STONE CHERRY, GAMMA RAY, BENEDICTION, SCAR SYMMETRY,
NEURAXIS, MISERY INDEX, THE FUNERAL PYRE, KRALLICE, HOLY MOSES, PRESTO
BALLET, TOXIC HOLOCAUST, PSYCROPTIC, TIAMAT, POISONBLACK, SONIC
SYNDICATE, BATTLELORE, SINNER, SHINEDOWN and much more!
BW&BK #113 will also feature The Good, Bad And Ugly Of 2008! And of
course, we will be honoring the Brave Pick Of 2008!
The future is METAL ... the future is NOW!
http://www.BraveWords.com/
http://www.BWBK.com/
http://www.hardradio.com/ - hit "HARD NEWS"
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #10 ***
*
-Halcyon Way To Release Debut On Nightmare Records
ATLANTA, GEORGIA -- Atlanta's progressive power/thrash band Halcyon
Way have inked a deal with U.S. label Nightmare Records. Their debut
CD, A MANIFESTO FOR DOMINATION, will be released worldwide on November
11, 2008.
The album was produced by guitarist Jon Bodan, mixed by Lasse Lammert
(Alestorm), and mastered by James Murphy (Testament, Death).
The album features guest appearances from Jonah Weingarten (Pyramaze)
& Blaze Pearson (The Souls Unrest).
Sounding like a cross between Megadeth, Dio, and Fates Warning, the
band is known and recognized for its energetic and theatrical live
performances, blazing guitar, intricate drumming, and three-part vocal
harmonies. They have appeared live with acts such as Helloween,
Symphony X, Kamelot, Brand New Sin, Cellador, Circle II Circle,
To/Die/For, Doro Pesch, Strapping Young Lad, and many others. In
addition, they appeared live at the ProgPower USA Showcase in 2004 and
2007, alongside bands such as Primal Fear, Threshold, Freak Kitchen,
and Virgin Steele. Halcyon Way also performed twice at Rocklahoma in
2008, alongside bands such as Queensryche & Tesla, and many others.
"The band was very persistent. Finally they we're far enough along in
the recording process and gave me a few of their songs to check out. I
was sold! This band, while being a new force to be recognized, knows
how to write solid songs, and how to translate their ideas from gut
and head to your ears!" said Lance King (Nightmare Records).
Halcyon Way is endorsed by Brian Moore Custom Guitars, Madison
Amplifiers, Halo Guitars, and Sfarzo Strings.
A MANIFESTO FOR DOMINATION track listing:
1. Intro
2. A Manifesto For Domination
3. Blind Eyes To The Sky
4. The Hidden
5. Disconnected
6. Deliver The Suffering
7. powderBurn
8. A Thousand Points Of Night
9. Communicate With The Violence
10. I Fought The World
11. The Lonely Road
12. Physician, Heal Thyself
TO LISTEN TO SAMPLES OF THE NEW ALBUM
http://nightmare-records.com/NMR/index.php?
option=com_content&task=category§ionid=1&id=15&Itemid=2
Halcyon Way is:
Sean Shields – Vocals
Jon Bodan – Lead Guitar & Background Vocals
Zane Matthews – Rhythm Guitar & Background Vocals
Kris Maltenieks – Bass Guitar & Background Vocals
Ernie Topran - Drums
For more information, visit http://www.nightmarerecords.com/ ,
http://www.halcyonway.com/ , or http://www.myspace.com/halcyonway .
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #11 ***
*
-Lion Music News
Shadrane - TEMPORAL
Released October 10th 2008
LMC245
EAN6419922002452
Shadrane is the metal/progressive band-project of Vivien Lalu (Lalu,
Hubi Meisel), Joop Wolters (Dutch guitar virtuoso), and the legendary
brothers rhythm section of Matt and Gregg Bissonette (Joe Satriani,
Steve Vai, etc). From a vocal perspective Shadrane makes use of
different singers, according to the tracks needs with vocals coming
from Göran Edman (ex-Yngwie Malmsteen, Street Talk, Brazen Abbot),
Björn Jansson (Tears Of Anger, Ride The Sky, Beyond Twilight) and
Henrik Båth (Darkwater) along with some backing vocals from Martin
LeMar (Tomorrow's Eve). Musically TEMPORAL is a blend of prog-metal
("Temporal," "She Writes"), power-metal ("Betrayal," "Morpheus") and
more pop driven rock ("Rainy," "Consider It") -- yet Shadrane's own
personality shines through all the compositions. Lyrically the tracks
don't follow the story's order; yet the songs are inspired by the
concept/story, but they're not telling every event in chronological
order like a movie would do.
On the album Vivien comments, "I've always been influenced by dramatic
movies and orchestral scores in general. I would make a movie out of
the story if I could. I was inspired by my grandparents' tragic life
when I wrote it. I wanted to write an album about the stupidity of
war, but also love, grief, mourning and redemption. I believe that
nothing last forever, that 'everything is temporal.' Not too happy, I
admit, the complete opposite of my debut ONIRIC METAL (released under
the Lalu moniker) where I stated that 'love is eternal.' I have a
totally different state of mind today, than the day when I started to
write the concept/music. Many people around me (both family and
friends) have died during the making of the album and while there were
bad times for my wife and I, it made my brain work a lot. Fortunately,
there was also the birth of my daughter which happened during the
production, so I 'brainstormed' even more. I guess all these things
influenced the compositions and the story writing (in many ways)."
TEMPORAL Story Concept
By Vivien Lalu
with the precious help of Daniel Z. Klein
Our story takes place between 1940 and 1942. Jack Daker, a U.S. Navy
Commander in charge of the secret U.S. submarine Morpheus, is spending
his shore leave with his troops on Hawaii. 2nd Lt. Paul Brodsen is one
of the men under Daker's command; he is a nervous man who has always
been jealous of Daker and who harbours a secret hate against him.
The Japanese New Year falls into the time of the shore leave, and amid
the colourful celebrations, Commander Jack Daker meets Madoka Okuyama,
a young girl of Japanese heritage. They quickly develop feelings for
each other, and a long relationship begins. This only serves to
further fuel Brodsen's jealousy.
After Daker and his men have left Hawaii, the American continues his
relationship with Madoka through letters. Later in 1941, the Japanese
attack Pearl Harbor and Commander Daker realizes that Madoka is no
longer safe where she is. He decides to secretly move her to his house
in America, where he hopes she will be safe. He goes to Hawaii
personally and escorts Madoka to his home in Woodlake Pines, U.S.A. --
secretly, of course, as by this time people of Japanese nationality
were no longer permitted to enter American territory. Brodsen learns
of Daker's treason, but decides to bide his time.
While Madoka lives alone in the old Daker residence, Jack is aboard
Morpheus, fighting the Japanese. It is during one of these dangerous
missions that Lt. Brodsen kills his commanding officer, Jack Daker. As
they are about to fire at a Japanese civilian vessel (there are
rumours that it's transporting weapons) Daker aborts the firing
sequence, thus causing a malfunction of the torpedo chamber doors. The
submarine begins to flood and it is only after she has taken tons of
water that the doors can be sealed again. During the general
confusion, Brodsen overwhelms Daker and kills him by forcing his head
under water, making it look like a drowning accident. Morpheus finally
reemerges, and a little while after control is restored -- with
Brodsen as the new commanding officer -- they resume the attack, this
time successfully.
Madoka learns of Jack's demise from his butler Richard and is
completely devastated. She attends his funeral masked in black and
cries for him a last time. She had learnt that she was pregnant and
had been looking forward to telling Jack the next time they would have
met. The next day, she cuts her hair off, looks at her reflection in
the mirror, and smashes the glass. Just as she is trying to take her
own life with a shard of glass, the policemen Brodsen had informed
about the presence of a Japanese national in hiding storm the Daker
residence and take her to Manzanar, the Japanese internment camp.
A little later, Paul comes to visit the Daker residence, announcing
himself as a good friend. Richard leaves him to look through the
deceased's effects, where Lt. Brodsen finds the box of letters Daker
had been sending to Madoka during most of 1941. Curious as he is, he
starts reading some of them, and soon discovers that Commander Daker
was disillusioned and unhappy with his post in the Navy, and that he
was hoping to retire soon. He also mentioned Brodsen, and that he
would be happy to see Brodsen as his successor. Daker goes on to
explain to Madoka in his letters that he felt a little bad about
treating Brodsen as roughly as he did, but that he thought it
necessary in order for the Lieutenant to be ready for the commanding
position when the time came. Generally, Daker is speaking of Brodsen
in the warmest of tones. Reading this, Brodsen feels regrets awakening
in his heart for the first time and finally falls to his knees,
crying.
At Manzanar, Madoka is suffering. She receives no real treatment for
her pregnancy and grows weaker day by day. During one of her many
sleepless nights, she sees a dark silhouette in the room. The figure
bids her to follow him. The mysterious stranger helps her escape, but
unfortunately, he is wounded by one of the camp's guards. Finally they
make it outside and to a car. The stranger, masked still, drives them
back to Woodlake Pines, to the Daker mansion. They park in front of
the old house and he reveals his face. It is none other than Paul
Brodsen, who confesses right away to murdering Jack Daker. He explains
that he thought the submarine would sink and that all would be lost,
so he wanted to kill Jack with his own hands before he died. He never
expected to survive that day. He is contrite and apologizes from the
bottom of his heart. Madoka, however, is too shocked to say anything.
Relieved of his guilt, Paul Brodsen dies in the car. Madoka finally
comes out of her shock and cries out, awakening Richard, who hastens
out of the house to see what that cry was.
Madoka recovers, but her only companions are painful memories and
loneliness. One day, following an impulse, she starts writing about
her life with Jack, but in her version, Jack never dies. She spends a
number of months writing, and the night after she finally finished the
book, she falls asleep, exhausted but happy. When she wakes up, it is
midnight and raining outside. There is a silhouette outside window,
and at first Madoka assumes it to be Richard. She approaches the
window, opens it, and discovers the silhouette to be Jack -- but not
the Jack she knew. This Jack is an old and happy man. He thanks her
for a wonderful life and vanishes after kissing her a last time. She
falls unconscious.
When she wakes up in the morning, she is still uncertain whether the
Jack she saw was real or still part of her dream. But the window is
still open...
Track Listing
1. Temporal [04:20]
2. Madoka [04:04]
3. Requiem For A Rose (instrumental) [01:09]
4. I Remember [04:06]
5. She Writes [04:26]
6. Rainy [03:51]
7. Lanterns Dance [05:02]
8. Betrayal (instrumental) [03:29]
9. Morpheus [04:56]
10. Consider It [04:02]
11. Manzanar [03:45]
12. Babies In The Bath (instrumental) [02:26]
13. Dance Of Solitude [04:07]
14. Gallery 2008* [05:22]
Musicians
Vivien Lalu - Keyboards
Joop Wolters - Guitar
Matt Bisonette - Bass
Greg Bisonette - Drums
Göran Edman - Vocals
Björn Jansson - Vocals on 9,14
Henrik Båth - Vocals on 1,5
Martin LeMar - Backing vocals on 5,7
Marco Sfogli - Guest guitar solos on 1,2,5,7,11,12,13
Alex Argento - Guest keyboard solos on 1,14
Gary Wehrkamp - Guest keyboard solo on 14
Virgil Donati - Drums on 8,10,14
Credits
Music by Vivien Lalu & Joop Wolters (9,10,11)
Mixed & produced by Vivien Lalu.
Co-produced by Noëlle Lalu & Joop Wolters.
Concept/story by Vivien Lalu.
Mastering: Richard Addison - Trillium Sound Mastering (Québec,
Canada).
Bass on 1,2,4,5,6 pre-mixed by Scott Cooke (Vancouver BC, Canada).
Drums mixed & edited by Jay Walsh @ Farview Recording (Chicago,
U.S.A.) except 8,10 engineered & mixed by T.J. Helmerich (Hollywood,
L.A., U.S.A.).
Album art by Mattias Norén ( http://www.progart.com/ ).
Web art by Geoffrey Rousselot Design (
http://www.geoffreyrousselot.com/ ).
Web Links
http://www.shadrane.com/
http://www.myspace.com/shadrane
Brief Band Biography
Shadrane was founded by Vivien Lalu in the winter of 2001 after his
former band Mind's Orchard disbanded. At first the project was called
Kharma but it was quickly renamed due to numerous other bands using
the same name. Ex-Dreamscape singer and now solo artist Hubi Meisel
kindly helped Vivien pick the name Shadrane after the young
keyboardist sent him a list of different names to choose from. Hubi
also helped Vivien to prepare a couple of demos ("Neurastasia") that
he would send at labels, including drum tracks recorded by Anders
Johansson (HammerFall, ex-Yngwie Malmsteen) who wanted to help Vivien
as well. A deal was struck with Lion Music and the rest is history.
Joop Wolters, a long timer figure in Vivien's musical output since
2002, was the natural choice to provide the bulk of the guitar work,
with his place in the project becoming more important as time went on
becoming Shadrane's co-producer and writing three songs for the debut
album: TEMPORAL. The Bissonette brothers joined later on in 2006 after
being contacted by Viv to complete the lineup along with numerous
guest vocalists.
Tomorrow's Eve - TALES FROM SERPENTIA
Released October 10th 2008
LMC246
EAN6419922002469
Introduction to the album
"And what are dreams but stories, badly told and half-forgotten? There
was a time when a lot of my life consisted of dreams. Not the dreams
that come at night and frighten or entertain and then are forgotten,
like second-rate books you read on a plane. Not the fleeting day-
dreams of idle moments, either. The dreams that come and stay if you
stray too far into the realms of certain substances. The always there
waking nightmares."
- Author of the "Tales."
Since finding a stable home on Lion Music in 2006 with MIRROR OF
CREATION II - GENESIS 2, Germany-based metallers Tomorrow's Eve have
gone from strength to strength thanks to the exceptionally high and
original quality of their music coupled with an ultra-powerful live
show that has been impressing audiences across Europe over the last
two years.
Now, Tomorrow's Eve are back again with a powerhouse of an album.
TALES FROM SERPENTIA, a collage of short stories, written by a twisted
mind; dark and dreadful fictions from the abyss. Musically Tomorrow's
Eve still performs progressive metal, but with an emphasis on catchy
melodic vocal lines and heavy riffs. The band plays complex but always
accessible songs, holding interesting details to discover over
repeated listens. In short: very dark, very melodic, and very
accessible.
Brief Biography
The success of their first album THE UNEXPECTED WORLD, released by
B.Mind Records (Berlin), was overwhelming. Tomorrow's Eve garnered
international attention, radio play and THE UNEXPECTED WORLD was even
released in Russia, Belarus, the Ukraine and the Baltic through IROND
Records (Moscow). The very successful album MIRROR OF CREATION
followed in 2003. During this time, tensions within Tomorrow's Eve
were becoming unbearable and after the album was released, former
vocalist Peter and the rhythm section Ralph and Sascha left the group,
leaving Rainer Grund and Oliver Schwickert to fight it out. After a
few more lineup changes, Tom Diener and Chris Doerr joined the band
until Martin LeMar finally completed Tomorrow's Eve in 2004. In 2006 a
new label was found in Lion Music (Finland) and they released the
album MIRROR OF CREATION II - GENESIS 2, which was highly acclaimed by
critics and fans. Meanwhile Tomorrow's Eve grew by playing Tours and
Concerts, sharing stages with artists like Paul DiAnno, Circle II
Circle, Jon Oliva's Pain, Rage, Destruction, Ryo Okumoto (Spock's
Beard) and Nightingale. Now, Tomorrow's Eve are back again with TALES
FROM SERPENTIA and have all the tools to further enhance their
reputation with the metal masses.
Track Listing
1. Nightfall
2. The Years Ahead
3. Dream Diary
4. No Harm
5. Remember
6. Succubus
7. Warning
8. The Curse
9. The Tower
10. Faces
11. Muse
Musicians
Martin LeMar – vocals
Rainer Grund – guitars
Oliver Schwickert – keys
Chris Doerr – bass
Tom Diener – drums
Credits
All music by Tomorrow's Eve.
Lyrics and concept: Martin LeMar and Daniel Z. Klein.
All artwork by C.A. Beckston.
Produced by Phil Hillen and Tomorrow's Eve.
Mixed, Recorded & Mastered by Phil Hillen at Su2-Studio, Illingen,
Germany http://www.su2-studio.de/
Web Links
http://www.t-eve.com/
http://www.myspace.com/mirrorofcreation
O.T.R. - MAMONAMA
Released October 10th 2008
LMC244
EAN6419922002445
Combine two rock legends with a hot rhythm trio from Brazil and you
get O.T.R. (On The Rocks). Led by the bluesy, soulful and distinctive
voice of former Uriah Heep vocalist John Lawton and the expressive
fretwork of ex-Focus guitarist Jan Dumee, O.T.R. are completed by the
swinging powerful Brazilian rhythm section of Ney Conceicao on Bass,
Xande Figueiredo on Drums and Marvio Ciribelli on Organ, Rhodes and
Piano to create MAMONAMA.
O.T.R.'s debut album is home to ten tracks of classic rock coupled
with some jazz influences that encapsulates various moods and
expressions in an accessible package for all fans of melodic and
classic rock. O.T.R. recorded MAMONAMA in Rio de Janeiro and the
Netherlands. The mix was done in Brazil's foremost CD/DVD recording
studio "Mosh" in Sao Paulo.
Whilst traces of the classic Uriah Heep and Focus sound can be heard
in the instrumentation, O.T.R. add their own slant to the classic rock
sound with a vibe that nods to the classic timeless sounds of yester
year; yet all the while striving forward into the future in their
delivery and outlook. MAMONAMA is five musicians getting together from
different sides of the planet, having a good time, and showcasing that
vibe in their music with the band focused on reaching a new audience
young and old with their new music.
Band Biography
Every now and then an idea comes along, which sounds and feels good.
O.T.R (On The Rocks) is just such an idea. A new multi-national rock
group which has brought vocalist John Lawton (ex-Uriah Heep /
Lucifer's Friend) and guitarist Jan Dumee (ex-Focus), together with a
hot three piece Brazilian rhythm section. In 2005 Jan recorded his
solo album RIO ON THE ROCKS'. During live performances of this project
he became impressed by the musicians and so he invited drummer Xande
Figuerueido, keyboardist Marvio Ciribelli and bassist Ney Conceicao to
become member of his new rock band, O.T.R. As a continuation of
descend rock-line after leaving Focus in April 2006 Jan and John
hooked up and developed O.T.R. further. John Lawton: "In April 2006
Jan contacted me, after leaving Focus, with the plan to lock together
his love for melodic rock and my blues/rock influences. I liked what I
heard. With Jan making my inexpensive guitar sound like a very
expensive one, I knew we were on the right track."
Track Listing
1. Ghetto
2. Taking You Down
3. Hello (Dona Nobis Pacem)
4. The Corner Club
5. Mamonama
6. Steal The Night
7. Face To Face
8. Shine
9. Woman
10. Ride On
Musicians
John Lawton - Lead and backing vocals
Xande Figueiredo - Drums
Ney Conceicao - Bass
Marvio Ciribelli - Organ, Piano, Fender Rhodes
Jan Dumee - Accoustic & Electric guitars, Tambourine, Kalimba in
"Woman."
Backing vocals in "Shine" and "Face To Face."
Guest Musicians
Sonia Genu - all choir vocals in "Hello," (arr. J. Dumee)
Julio Pimentel - berimbaus in "Woman"
Credits
Music arranged by Jan Dumee.
Vocals arranged by John Lawton.
Recorded at Studio Criacao (Brazil) by Bob Nagy and Studio Bolinha
(Netherlands) by Frits Van Der Veen.
Mixed & mastered at Mosh Studios (Brazil).
Mixed by Adriano "Ted," Mastered by Walter Lima at Mosh Studios, Sao
Paulo - Brazil.
Web Links
http://www.otr-band.co.uk/
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #12 ***
*
-Testament Announces Headlining Tour
Testament is pleased to announce a string of headlining dates this
October with Louisiana metallers Soilent Green. The tour includes
Testament's appearance at the Hammerstein Ballroom on October 9 in New
York City, where they will be direct support to headliners Children Of
Bodom; also special guests, The Black Dahlia Murder and Between The
Buried And Me.
Guitarist Eric Peterson checked in to discuss the Metal Masters tour
and the band's upcoming U.S. headlining dates: "We just finished the
Metal Masters tour, and it was a great tour to be on. Unfortunately,
it went by too quick. We got to know everyone towards the end, and it
started to feel like family. It's too bad it had to end so soon,
especially after getting to know everyone. Hopefully, the Metal
Masters will continue next year in Europe.
"In the meantime, we're heading to Japan and Australia. The last time
we played there in '06, we promised our fans we'd have a new record
out the next time we came around. We kept our promise and we're
excited to get back there and play it for them.
"Once we get back, we'll be headlining some east coast shows,
including a one-off with Children Of Bodom at the infamous Hammerstein
Ballroom in N.Y.C. We'll have full production, so we're excited to put
on our whole show. This tour is going to focus on secondary markets,
so we don't spoil anything for next year. We plan on having a big year
and putting a big package together, wink wink."
Having just wrapped up the biggest tour of the summer -- Metal Masters
with Judas Priest, Heaven & Hell, and Motorhead -- Testament has been
touring to support their phenomenal new release, THE FORMATION OF
DAMNATION. The album hit streets April 29 on Nuclear Blast Records and
debuted at #59 on the Billboard 200. Testament has been in the top 3
on Sirius' Hard Attack since March and were #1 on national metal radio
for 12 weeks. The band recently won "Album of the Year" at the Metal
Hammer Golden Gods Awards for THE FORMATION OF DAMNATION.
http://www.testamentlegions.com/
http://www.myspace.com/testamentlegions
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #13 ***
*
-WE WISH YOU A METAL XMAS AND A HEADBANGING NEW YEAR
On October 14, Armoury Records, distributed by Eagle Rock
Entertainment, will release one mighty molten metal blast of good CD
cheer: WE WISH YOU A METAL XMAS AND A HEADBANGING NEW YEAR.
It's an all-star assemblage as members of such great hard rock bands
as Foo Fighters, Queensryche, Dio, Alice Cooper, ZZ Top, Dokken, Kiss,
L.A. Guns, Marilyn Manson, Motorhead, Black Sabbath, King's X, Judas
Priest, Anthrax and Ratt.
WE WISH YOU A METAL XMAS AND A HEADBANGING NEW YEAR track listing:
1. We Wish You A Merry Xmas
Jeff Scott Soto (TALISMAN, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, JOURNEY)
Bruce Kulick (KISS, UNION)
Bob Kulick
Chris Wyse (THE CULT)
Ray Luzier (KORN, DAVID LEE ROTH, ARMY OF ANYONE)
2. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
Alice Cooper
John 5 (ROB ZOMBIE, MARILYN MANSON)
Billy Sheehan (DAVID LEE ROTH, TALAS, MR. BIG)
Vinny Appice (DIO, HEAVEN & HELL, BLACK SABBATH)
3. Run Rudolph Run
Lemmy Kilmister (MOTÖRHEAD)
Billy F. Gibbons (ZZ TOP)
Dave Grohl (FOO FIGHTERS)
4. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
Ronnie James Dio
Tony Iommi
Rudy Sarzo (QUIET RIOT, WHITESNAKE, DIO)
Simon Wright (AC/DC, DIO)
5. Little Drummer Boy
Doug Pinnick (KING's X)
George Lynch (DOKKEN)
Billy Sheehan (DAVID LEE ROTH, TALAS, MR. BIG)
Simon Phillips (THE WHO, TOTO)
6. Santa Claus Is Back In Town
Tim "Ripper" Owens (YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, JUDAS PRIEST, ICED EARTH)
Steve Morse (DEEP PURPLE)
Juan Garcia (AGENT STEEL)
Marco Mendoza (WHITESNAKE, TED NUGENT)
Vinny Appice
7. Silent Night
Chuck Billy (TESTAMENT)
Scott Ian (ANTHRAX)
Jon Donais (SHADOWS FALL)
Chris Wyse (THE CULT)
John Tempesta (ROB ZOMBIE, THE CULT)
8. Silver Bells
Geoff Tate (QUEENSRYCHE)
Carlos Cavazo (QUIET RIOT, RATT)
James Lomenzo (MEGADETH, WHITE LION)
Ray Luzier (KORN, DAVID LEE ROTH, ARMY OF ANYONE)
9. Deck The Halls
Oni Logan (LYNCH MOB)
Craig Goldy (DIO)
Tony Franklin (THE FIRM)
John Tempesta (ROB ZOMBIE, THE CULT)
10. Grandma Got Ran Over By A Reindeer
Stephen Pearcy (RATT)
Tracii Guns (L.A. GUNS, BRIDES OF DESTRUCTION)
Bob Kulick
Billy Sheehan (DAVID LEE ROTH, TALAS, MR. BIG)
Greg Bissonette (DAVID LEE ROTH)
11. Rockin' Around The Xmas Tree
Joe Lynn Turner (RAINBOW, DEEP PURPLE)
Bruce Kulick (KISS, UNION)
Bob Kulick
Rudy Sarzo (QUIET RIOT, WHITESNAKE, DIO)
Simon Wright AC/DC, DIO)
12. Happy Xmas (War Is Over)
Tommy Shaw (STYX)
Steve Lukather (TOTO)
Marco Mendoza (WHITESNAKE, TED NUGENT)
Kenny Aronoff (TONY IOMMI, SMASHING PUMPKINS)
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #14 ***
*
-Napalm Records News
Grave Digger: Studio Sneak Peek
The true metal legends revolving around Chris Boltendahl offer their
fans an exclusive first look at their upcoming album BALLADS OF A
HANGMAN. Metalheads can check out the band's work on BALLADS... by
viewing the studio video. As a special bonus, the brand new song
"Pray" serves as the soundtrack to this glimpse into Grave Digger's
world. Headbangers, and those who would like to become one themselves,
should make sure to check out the video on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6iqPBalM48 .
The MCD "Pray" consists of three exclusive non-album tracks and a
cover of Motörhead's legendary song "Overkill." "Pray" and BALLADS OF
A HANGMAN will hit the streets on 28 November 2008 and 9 January 2009,
respectively.
OFFICIAL SITE
http://www.grave-digger-clan.com/
MYSPACE
http://www.myspace.com/gravediggerclan
PRODUCT INFO
http://www.napalmrecords.com/product_info.php?products_id=11316
Hellsaw: New To Napalm Records
Austrian black metal mongrels Hellsaw are the latest addition to
Napalm Records' evergrowing roster. The band, fronted by the
charismatic Aries (ex-Sanguis), offers an unholy blend of dark
melodies, pitch-black vocals, and infernal drums. The new Hellsaw opus
COLD will be released in the spring of 2009.
Aries: "We are very proud to be a member of the Napalm family. Not
only is it proof of our hard work, but also a major sign that Napalm
Records return to their roots and put their faith in a f*cked-up
Austrian black metal band. We honor this sign of trust and in return
will unleash our album COLD early next year. Fans can expect a
composition of hate and brimstone, all-crushing blastbeats, and raw
guitars filled with deep melancholy."
OFFICIAL SITE
http://www.hellsaw.com/
MYSPACE
http://www.myspace.com/hellsawmusic
Stuck Mojo: New Album And Fall Tour
Stuck Mojo are ready to unleash their latest offering THE GREAT
REVIVAL. In order to celebrate the release of their new full-length,
the band will embark on a headlining tour in the U.K. Following the
tour, Stuck Mojo will support Danish band Volbeat on their European
tour. THE GREAT REVIVAL will be released on November 28, 2008.
Rich: "In many ways, this album sees us spreading our wings far beyond
the span of our previous albums. Our metal grooves, southern rock
roots, hip-hop street smarts and big '70s rock hooks have always been
the foundation that has defined Stuck Mojo. This record sees the
extremes of those influences blended into an epic sonic stew that only
Stuck Mojo could cook up. This is THE GREAT REVIVAL."
OFFICIAL SITE
http://www.stuckmojo.us/
MYSPACE
http://www.myspace.com/stuckinthemojo
PRODUCT INFO
http://www.napalmrecords.com/product_info.php?products_id=11319
NOTHING BURNS LIKE NAPALM: Exclusive Compilation Via iTunes
Music fans who would like to get an overview of Napalm Records' status
quo, should stop by iTunes. The cybershop offers a 16-track Napalm
Sampler (entitled NOTHING BURNS LIKE NAPALM) for merely 3,96 EUR. This
collection is only available through iTunes and will not be released
on CD.
iTUNES
http://ax.phobos.apple.com.edgesuite.net/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/bro
wserRedirect?url=itms%253A%252F%252Fax.phobos.apple.com.edgesuite.net%
252FWebObjects%252FMZStore.woa%252Fwa%252FviewAlbum%253Fid%
253D290702750%2526s%253D143443
Alestorm: Guitarist Gavin Leaves
The Scottish buccaneers Alestorm have lost a member of their crew. Due
to personal reasons, captain Gavin decided to leave the band. However,
fans do not have to give up hope: Tim Fife-Schwaw takes over the
guitar duties. In addition, original drummer Wilson rejoined the
privateers. Aye, the plunder will continue! A new Alestorm full-length
CD will hit the streets in 2009.
OFFICIAL SITE
http://www.alestorm.net/
MYSPACE
http://www.myspace.com/alestorm
PRODUCT INFO
http://www.napalmrecords.com/product_info.php?products_id=10555
Fairyland: New Album In The Works
Mastermind and keyboardist Philippe Giordana is dilligently working on
Fairyland's SCORE TO A NEW BEGINNING. This album will be the last
chapter of the Osyrhian Chronicles. The band remains faithful to its
unique blend of Symphonic and Speed Metal. Numerous guest musicians
will provide finishing touches to this extravagant mix and one of the
guests is no other than Serenity vocalist Georg Neuhauser. The wait
will finally be over in the spring/summer of next year when SCORE TO A
NEW BEGINNING will be released.
OFFICIAL SITE
http://www.fairyland-metal.com/
MYSPACE
http://www.myspace.com/fairylandfantasia
PRODUCT INFO
http://www.napalmrecords.com/product_info.php?products_id=9644
Kampfar, Battlelore & Artas: Pre-listening Links
Kampfar - HEIMGANG:
"Inferno"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Kampfar02_Inferno_Edit.mp3
"Dødens Vee"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Kampfar03_DodensVee_Edit.mp3
"Skogens Dyp"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Kampfar04_SkogensDyp_Edit.mp3
"Antvort"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Kampfar05_Antvort_Edit.mp3
"Vansinn"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Kampfar06_Vansinn_Edit.mp3
"Mareham"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Kampfar07_Mareham_Edit.mp3
"Feigdarvarsel"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Kampfar08_Feigdarvarsel_Edit.mp3
"Vettekult"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Kampfar09_Vettekult_Edit.mp3
"Vandring"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Kampfar10_Vandring_Edit.mp3
Battlelore - THE LAST ALLIANCE:
"Third Immortal"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Battlelore01_ThirdImmortal_Edit.mp3
"Guardians"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Battlelore02_Guardians_Edit.mp3
"The Great Gathering"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Battlelore03_TheGreatGathering_Edit
.mp3
"Voice Of The Fallen"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Battlelore04_VoiceOfTheFallen_Edit.
mp3
"Exile The Daystar"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Battlelore05_ExileTheDaystar_Edit.m
p3
"Daughter Of The Sun"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Battlelore06_DaughterOfTheSun_Edit.
mp3
"Green Dragon"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Battlelore07_GreenDragon_Edit.mp3
"Awakening"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Battlelore08_Awakening_Edit.mp3
"Epic Dreams"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Battlelore09_EpicDreams_Edit.mp3
"Moontower"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Battlelore10_Moontower_Edit.mp3
"The Star Of High Hope"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Battlelore11_TheStarOfHighHope_Edit
.mp3
Artas - THE HEALING:
"Barbossa"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Artas01_Barbossa_Edit.mp3
"Bastardo"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Artas02_Bastardo_Edit.mp3
"Fick Das Fett"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Artas03_FickDasFett_Edit.mp3
"The Healing"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Artas04_TheHealing_Edit.mp3
"Kontrol"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Artas05_Kontrol_Edit.mp3
"Rhågenfels"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Artas06_Rhagenfels_Edit.mp3
"Through Dark Gates"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Artas07_ThroughDarkGates_Edit.mp3
"Blut"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Artas08_Blut_Edit.mp3
"Gangsta's Paradise"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Artas09_GangstasParadise_Edit.mp3
"The Butcher's Guilt"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Artas10_TheButchersGuilt_Edit.mp3
"From Dirt We'll Rise"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Artas11_FromDirtWeWillRise_Edit.mp3
"A Song Of Ice And Fire"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Artas12_ASongOfIceAndFire_Edit.mp3
"I Am Your Judgement Day"
http://videos.napalmrecords.at/mp3/Artas13_IAmYourJudgementDay_Edit.mp
3
Coming In 2008:
October
Tyr - HOW FAR TO ASGAARD - Viking Metal - Re-Release 02.10.2008
November
Asmegin -Viking Metal
The Modern Age Slavery - Deathcore
Stuck Mojo - THE GREAT REVIVAL - Crossover Metal
http://www.napalmrecords.com/
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #15 ***
*
-Radiant Records News
Neal Morse LIFELINE News!
Hello,
We have some good news and some bad news. The bad news is that there
was a slight delay from the manufacturers on the special edition and
the LIFELINE release date in Europe has been pushed back to October
20.
The good news is we just got them in and are shipping them out this
week!
Also, the reviews are coming in and they are amazing!
"LIFELINE is another phenomenal piece of work from the man who helps
keep the spirit of 'real' progressive rock alive." – ystejam.com
"Neal has produced a new album of very high quality, that will not
disappoint his fans." – Music in Belgium
Now shipping from http://www.radiantrecords.com/ .
Inner Circle News!
The latest Inner Circle DVD -- NEAL MORSE AND FRIENDS LIVE AT 3RP --
has shipped and people are just getting it now. This bootleg quality
DVD recorded in August in Pittsburgh features Neal performing "The
Light" with Spock's Beard and "Stranger In Your Soul" with Mike
Portnoy and Roine Stolt. Join the Inner Circle by October 15th to be
part of the October shipment of this great DVD.
Thanks,
Cherie Morse
Radiant Records
http://www.radiantrecords.com/
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #16 ***
*
-Kittie Returns To Europe After Six Years
TRENTON, N.J. -- Canadian metal powerhouse Kittie will return to
Europe this fall for its first tour in six years.
"I am really anxious to get back so we can meet all the people who
have stayed true to us, re-introduce the band, and show everyone what
we have been up to these past years," said front woman Morgan Lander.
"The European audiences are always so enthusiastic and dedicated to
the bands they love. Many people have been waiting for what seems like
a lifetime for us to return, and I know they will be great audiences
and we will not disappoint!"
Kittie was part of the one and only European Ozzfest tour in Europe in
2002 and played the major metal festivals, but the band's return will
be the group's first headlining excursion in Europe. Magnacult will
provide direct support in Europe (excluding Paris), and Losing Sun and
Symphony Cult will support the band in the U.K.
European fans can expect a band that over the years has been
transformed by relentless touring and tireless work ethic. A Kittie
show is intimate, raw and in your face.
"We are all ridiculously excited to be returning to Europe," Lander
said. "The fans have waited long enough. This is just the beginning!"
Kittie's latest album, FUNERAL FOR YESTERDAY, is available on import
in Europe.
Dates are as follow:
10/18/08 Sat. - Melkweg, Amsterdam, Netherlands
10/19/08 Sun. - Bosuil, Weert, Netherlands
10/20/08 Mon. - Underworld, London, England
10/21/08 Tue. - TJ's, Newport, Wales
10/22/08 Wed. - Cathouse, Glasgow, Scotland
10/23/08 Thu. - Central Station, Wrexham, England
10/24/08 Fri. - Academy, Bristol, England
10/25/08 Sat. - Queens Hall, Nuneaton, England
10/26/08 Sun. - La Scene Bastille, Paris, France
10/28/08 Tue. - Logo, Hamburg, Germany
10/29/08 Wed. - Kato, Berlin, Germany
10/30/08 Thu. - Colos-saal, Aschaffenburg, Germany
10/31/08 Fri. - Club Manufaktur, Schorndorf, Germany
11/01/08 Sat. - Orpheum, Graz, Austria
11/03/08 Mon. - Komma, Worgl, Austria
11/04/08 Tue. - 59-1, Munich, Germany
11/05/08 Wed. - Schuur, Luzern, Switzerland
11/06/08 Thu. - Kreuz, Fulda, Germany
11/07/08 Fri. - The Roxy, Saarbrucken, Germany
11/08/08 Sat. - Underground, Cologne, Germany
11/10/08 Mon. - Plan B, Moscow, Russia
11/11/08 Tue. - Club Artica, St. Petersburg, Russia
http://www.kittierocks.com/
http://www.myspace.com/officialkittie
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #17 ***
*
-The Wild Story Of Shannon Hoon And Blind Melon Is Told In The New
Book, "A Devil On One Shoulder And An Angel On The Other"
One of the most tragic stories of the 1990s rock world was that of
singer Shannon Hoon, and his band, Blind Melon. Despite scoring one of
the decade's most enduring singles and videos, "No Rain," and a
quadruple platinum hit with their 1992 self-titled debut album (in
addition to touring alongside rock's biggest names), Hoon could not
overcome a dangerous drug addiction. Only two records into a promising
career, Hoon was dead from an overdose at the age of 28. "A Devil On
One Shoulder And An Angel On The Other" is the first book to tell the
group's story -- culled from over 50 exclusive interviews, and
featuring many never-before-seen photos.
"A Devil On One Shoulder" was written by journalist Greg Prato, whose
work as appeared in a variety of sites and magazines, including All
Music Guide, Billboard.com, Rolling Stone.com, and Classic Rock
Magazine, among others. A long-time fan of the band, Greg has been
working on this book -- with the help of the surviving members of the
band -- for the past few years. In the process, Greg conducted
interviews with such renowned rock names as Duff McKagan (Velvet
Revolver/Guns N' Roses), Gilby Clarke (GNR), Mike Clink (GNR
producer), Kim Thayil (Soundgarden), Jerry Cantrell (Alice In Chains),
Mike Inez (Alice In Chains), and Craig Ross (Lenny Kravitz), plus
family and friends -- including Shannon's mother, Nel Hoon.
While it will obviously appeal to fans of Shannon and Blind Melon,
this 344 page paperback book (whose title comes from a phrase that
guitarist Rogers Stevens once said to describe Shannon) will also be
of interest to fans of Guns N' Roses, as Shannon's friendship with Axl
Rose is chronicled throughout the years, as well as memories of when
Melon opened shows for GNR in 1993 (at their out-of-control peak).
Elsewhere, you'll find additional stories on Soundgarden, Alice In
Chains, Neil Young, Lenny Kravitz, Page & Plant, and the Rolling
Stones -- all of which are bands that Blind Melon toured with. And of
course, new light is shed directly on this great yet often underrated
band, as you get the inside scoop behind the three classic Hoon-era
albums (the aforementioned BLIND MELONM 1995's SOUP, and 1996's
posthumous release, NICO), the story behind "No Rain," the colorful
yet tragic life of Shannon, and the group's recent rebirth, with new
singer Travis Warren (and new album, 2008's FOR MY FRIENDS).
The book is available through http://www.lulu.com/ for $19.99 (U.S.),
and there are samples to read at the site (including a full chapter,
titled "Axl And Shannon"). Blind Melon and Shannon Hoon's
unforgettable story certainly deserves to be told, and "A Devil On One
Shoulder And An Angel On The Other" covers all the bases. "I am
honored that Greg has painstakingly accounted for what the hell
happened during those crazy times. He has summed up all the chaos,
jubilation, and paranoia that is Blind Melon." - Brad Smith, Blind
Melon bassist
http://stores.lulu.com/gregprato
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #18 ***
*
-Axis Percussion Joins Indianapolis Metal Fest As Official Drum Pedal
Sponsor
Fest to Feature Axis Endorsee Tim Yeung with Divine Heresy Performance
TRENTON, N.J. -- Axis Percussion, a leader specializing in the
manufacturing of precision drum pedals and drum hardware has announced
its sponsorship of the Indianapolis Metal Fest to be held on September
26th and 27th.
"We are proud to have Axis Percussion as the 'Official Drum Pedal of
the Indianapolis Metal Fest,'" said Rob Mason, the organizer of the
festival, "With the caliber of percussionists performing at this
year's festival, and the heavy-hitting bass drum sound that is
synonymous with metal music, it only makes sense to partner with the
industry leader."
Axis Percussion promotions at the event will include an Axis
Percussion booth, product demonstrations, a contest giveaway and a
special appearance and signing by Divine Heresy drummer and Axis
Percussion endorsee, Tim Yeung. Drummers attending and performing at
the event are encouraged to enter a contest on the metal fest Web site
for a chance to win an Axis A Longboards Double Pedal.
Known for his work with numerous well-known, extreme metal acts and
the title "World Fastest Drummer," Tim will cap off the first night of
the festival with a performance with Divine Heresy, who will make its
first Indianapolis appearance with new vocalist Travis Neal.
Axis Percussion joins Jagermeister, Marshall Amplification, Sam Ash
Music, Zildjian, Halo Guitars, Roaring Lion Energy Drink, Disc Makers
and other industry leaders in sponsoring the Indianapolis Metal Fest,
which is quickly growing to become "the Midwest's fastest growing
celebration of all things metal."
The Indianapolis Metal Fest will also feature acts such as
Dew-Scented, Kittie, Arsis, Mustasch, Ekotren, Demiricous, Shadowside,
The Absence, Woe Of Tyrants, Psyopus, Wykked Wytch, Obszon Geschopf,
Threat Signal, Green Jelly, Into Eternity, Daylight Dies, Bleed The
Sky, Destrophy, Skeletonwitch, The Destro, Gates Of Slumber and more.
About Axis Percussion
Axis Percussion takes great pride in specializing in precision foot
pedals and drum hardware. Manufactured in Carson, California, Axis
Percussion has specialized strictly in creating the fastest, and most
durable bass drum pedals possible. Axis Pedals sets themselves apart
from other manufactures with their unique flat-plate design made with
aircraft grade aluminum, and virtually indestructible design. Known
for high qualities of craftsmanship, Axis pedals are used by many of
the music industry's most talented drummers. Axis Percussion is
dedicated to the highest level of quality and performance, and with
Axis patented design features, Axis gear remains unique and state of
the art.
http://www.axispercussion.com/
About Tim Yeung
Tim Yeung is a prominent drummer in the extreme metal community. To
date, Tim Yeung has performed and worked with National acts such as
Hate Eternal, Nile, Vital Remains, All That Remains, Hank Williams
III, Agiel, Aurora Borealis, Decrepit Birth and is currently
performing with Divine Heresy. Tim is endorsed by some of the biggest
names in the industry, including Axis Percussion and Ddrum. Performing
live Nationally and Internationally with major label bands, Tim has
proven to be one of today's greatest young drummers and a stand out in
the metal music community.
http://www.timyeung.com/
http://www.indianapolismetalfest.com/
http://www.myspace.com/indymetalfest
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #19 ***
*
-Metal Blade's The Absence, Woe Of Tyrants & Psyopus Confirmed To
Perform At Indianapolis Metal Fest II
TRENTON, N.J. -- Monolith Entertainment Group is pleased to announce
that Metal Blade Recording artists The Absence, Woe Of Tyrants and
Psyopus will perform at the Indianapolis Metal Fest II on September
26th & 27th at the Madam C.J. Walker Theatre. The Indianapolis Metal
Fest II is sponsored by Roaring Lion Energy Drink, Sam Ash Music,
Jagermeister, Axis Percussion, DiscMakers, Zildjian and more.
Metal Blade presents Tampa, Florida metal revolutionaries The Absence,
who will prepare for their upcoming October U.S. Tour with label mates
Amon Amarth by making their first-ever Indianapolis Metal Fest
appearance on Friday evening. Enjoying the continued success of their
second album, RIDERS OF THE PLAGUE, The Absence continues to captivate
the metal community with their brand of high-flying guitar
histrionics, aggressive and punctuated vocals and the precision
drumming needed to hold together The Absence's melodic and brutal
onslaught of thrash metal.
As Outburn Magazine states, RIDERS OF THE PLAGUE "charges along like a
crystal meth fueled buffalo stampede before breaking into a
heartrending section of glacial leads and enormous melodies." With an
ever growing fan base, intense and powerful live shows, and two killer
thrash albums under their belts, The Absence stands bound to lead
another thrash revolution!
Not far from Indy, in an unsuspecting town called Chillicothe, Ohio,
hails the future heavy metal goliath Woe Of Tyrants. Signed to Metal
Blade Record earlier this year after an amazing first release BEHOLD
THE LION with Tribunal Records, the band mixes the best of technical,
death, thrash and power metal with some southern fried flair and ends
up with an unmerciful brutality that really helps set Woe Of Tyrants
apart with their signature sound. The band will perform Friday evening
with songs from their upcoming release, KINGDOM OF MIGHT, which just
may be the most impressive and amazing technical metal release of the
year. "If you thought BEHOLD THE LION was solid, punishing and hard to
top, you'll be unprepared and surprised for an elite album that can
only be described as an 'epic masterpiece,'" said Indianapolis Metal
Fest's Velda Garcia, who previewed KINGDOM OF MIGHT during a recent
visit with the band.
Touring off the success of their second album, OUR PUZZLING ENCOUNTERS
CONSIDERED, Rochester, NY experimental/grindcore act Psyopus, will
wrap up their current U.S. tour with what's assured to be an eclectic
performance in Indy. With "heart attack-inducing, grinding metal, that
conjures up whirlwinds and tidal waves of absurd guitar work, harsh
vocal onslaughts and hypersonic rhythm bombardment," Festival goers
will be unprepared for what Metal Blade describes as "bipolar
dynamics, radical arrangements, avant-garde instrumentation and a
melting force of pure speed." Expect a new release from Psyopus in
early February 2009.
"Metal Blade is definitely proud to have Psyopus, The Absence, and
newcomers Woe Of Tyrants on The Indianapolis Metal Fest II. We can't
wait for the all the metalheads in attendance to see how amazing and
talented each one of these bands is live. Each one is hard-hitting and
performs blistering live sets so prepare to have your faces melted off
by some of Metal Blade's fiercest up-and-comers."
The Indianapolis Metal Fest's sophomore effort has quadrupled from
last year's one-day event with 1,400 fans to what has grown to be a
two-day, three-stage event expecting thousands of fans to see 60 bands
from all genres of metal. Also scheduled to perform are: Divine
Heresy, Dew-Scented, Kittie, Divine Heresy, Mustasch, Ekotren,
Demiricous, Shadowside, Level-C, Wykked Wytch, Obszon Geschopf, Threat
Signal, Green Jelly, Into Eternity, Daylight Dies, Bleed The Sky,
Destrophy, Skeletonwitch, The Destro, Gates Of Slumber.
For ticket information, please go to
http://www.indianapolismetalfest.com/ or
http://www.myspace.com/indymetalfest .
The Absence on MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/theabsence
Woe of Tyrants on MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/wot
Psyopus on MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/psyopus
http://www.indianapolismetalfest.com/
http://www.myspace.com/indymetalfest
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #20 ***
*
-Indianapolis Metal Fest II Announces Venue Change
September 26th & 27th Event Featuring Dew-Scented, Kittie, Divine
Heresy Moves To Larger Venue
TRENTON, N.J. -- Monolith Entertainment and the Indianapolis Metal
Fest II have announced a change in venue for the two day event to be
held September 26th and 27th, 2008. The festival, dubbed "the
Midwest's fastest growing celebration of all things metal," will move
to the Marquee Convention and Event Center located at 5100 W. 38th
Street in Indianapolis, IN 46254.
The Festival was originally scheduled to be held at the Madame C.J.
Walker Theatre but the organizers moved the event to the new venue to
accommodate the comfort of additional fans to move inside in case of
inclement weather.
Monolith Entertainment is working through all media outlets to inform
all fans who have already purchased tickets that these tickets are
remain valid at the new venue. All other details remain the same with
regards to the show and ticket booking info.
The Indianapolis Metal Fest II is featuring acts from all over the
world and from all genres of metal including: Dew-Scented, Kittie,
Divine Heresy, Into Eternity, Arsis, Mustasch, Ekotren, Demiricous,
Shadowside, The Absence, Woe Of Tyrants, Psyopus, Wykked Wytch, Obszon
Geschopf, Threat Signal, Green Jelly, Into Eternity, Daylight Dies,
Bleed The Sky, Destrophy, Skeletonwitch, The Destro, Gates Of Slumber
and more.
The Festival is sponsored by Roaring Lion Energy Drink, Sam Ash Music,
Axis Percussion, Zildjian, DiscMakers and more.
For further information and for ticket sales, please visit
http://www.indianapolismetalfest.com/ or
http://www.myspace.com/indymetalfest .
http://www.indianapolismetalfest.com/
http://www.myspace.com/indymetalfest
*
*** NEWS/RUMORS ***
*
-Check out tons (over 1,000!) of '80s music videos streaming at
http://www.80smusicvids.com/ . Among the selections: Alcatrazz - "God
Blessed Video," Aldo Nova - "Fantasy," Annihilator - "Alison Hell,"
Craaft - "I Wanna Look In Your Eyes," Crimson Glory - "Lonely,"
Exciter - "Rain Of Terror," Fates Warning - "Through Different Eyes,"
Lillian Axe - "Dream Of A Lifetime," Sam Kinison - "Wild Thing," Shark
Island - "Paris Calling," Shy - "Break Down The Walls," TNT - "Seven
Seas." [Ah, remember when "Headbanger's Ball" played cool stuff like
this? :) - Tim]
-Fans who pre-order AC/DC's BLACK ICE through http://www.ACDC.com/
will automatically be entered to win two tickets to a "secret" concert
that will take place "somewhere in the greater New York are" on
October 26, right before the band's upcoming North American tour. More
information will be e-mailed out from the site on October 10.
-Power/thrash metallers Darkager have posted a promo video from their
upcoming album, SILENCE TIMES ARRIVAL, at
http://www.myspace.com/darkagerband . Two songs from the album are
also available on MySpace. See http://www.darkager.net/ for more.
-Iced Earth tour dates:
9/25 - 9:30 Club, Washington, DC
9/26 - Amos Southend, Charlotte NC
9/27 - ProgPower USA, Atlanta, GA
9/28 - House Of Blues, Orlando, FL
9/29 - Orangepeel, Asheville, NC
9/30 - House Of Blues, Cleveland, OH
10/14 - Norva, Norfolk, VA
10/15 - The Palladium, Worcester, MA
10/16 - Nokia Theater, New York, NY
10/22 - Hawthorne Theater, Portland, OR
10/23 - Regency Center @ The Grand Ballroom, San Francisco, CA
10/24 - The Avalon, Los Angeles, CA
See http://www.icedearth.com/ and http://www.myspace.com/icedearth for
more.
-Check out the video for "No More," from Duff McKagan's Loaded's
WASTED HEARTS EP, at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdFFqvFYWgE . The
band's debut full-length is due soon from Century Media Records.
-There's a Wall Street Journal (!) article about the perceived poor
sound quality of Metallica's DEATH MAGNETIC. Apparently, some fans
have gone so far as to create a petition asking the band to re-mix and
re-release the album. Check the article out at
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122228767729272339.html?
mod=googlenews_wsj
.
-WWE wrestler Triple H introduced Motorhead at the band's September 20
gig at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City. Check out video of nine
songs from the show, including a cover of Thin Lizzy's "Rosalie,"
online now at http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=dkstar222 .
-According to news reports, the next season of VH1's "Rock Of Love"
featuring Poison's Bret Michaels will have the contestants "deal[ing]
with Michaels' life on the road." The show will return early next
year.
Thanks to Bill "Vidiot" Kotowski, Dave Brenner, HeadbangerNYC.com,
Dalila @ RockStarPix.com, and Ethan Smith for help gathering some of
this information.
*
*** AT THE ALTAR: RE-DISCOVERY ***
*
by Patrick Brower (patrickbrower@...)
-Welcome to our second trip down memory lane. I am the ghost of
Detritus past as we focus our energy this week on another there-from-
almost-the-very-beginning contributor, Ms. Stephanie Kushner!
-Earliest records show Stephanie with Detritus at #25, but again, my
records of those first 25 issues are incomplete. I mean I could just
ask Tim, but he keeps all the old issues locked in a hermetically-
sealed vault (no, not the "Mega-Vault," that belongs to Keith Abt!!)
and he'd have to put on that static-free suit to go look them up, so
I'll spare him the inconvenience. You're welcome, Tim! Anyway, back to
Stephanie. Stephanie gave Detritus a column called "VOICES IN MY
WALLS" and provided us all with interviews from her DJ gig at 88.1 FM
WCWP in Brookville, NY. She also logged countless CD and live show
reviews and was a regular contributor thru 2002. Morgana Lefay lured
Stephanie out of semi-retirement in March 2005, and while she hasn't
reviewed anything for us since, she still proudly walks the walk.
"I still live in New York City and work for a division of WebMD.
Although my mom hoped that metal was a 'phase I would eventually grow
out of,' it hasn't happened yet. I still love metal and try to get to
as many shows as I can, including my yearly pilgrimage to Atlanta for
ProgPower USA. Anyone who remembers reading any of my previous
Detritus contributions will probably not be too surprised at the CDs
that are getting a lot of spins in my player right now -- LOVE'S DYING
WISH by Starbreaker, GLOBAL WARNING by Jon Oliva's Pain, ABERRATIONS
OF THE MIND by Morgana Lefay, REVELATION by Journey, and the self-
titled debut from Pathosray. Stay metal!"
Yay! Jon Oliva! So, there you have it folks, Stephanie is alive, well
and throwing the horns whenever possible. I wouldn't be surprised if
you start to see her name again in Detritus' future... Thank you for
everything, Stephanie!
-Next week we keep out geographic crisscrossing of the United States
intact by landing right in the middle! ...and to the east a little
bit.
*
*** REVIEWS ***
*
ALLEN/LANDE - THE REVENGE (B-) Locomotive Records, 2008
12 tracks, RT: 63:33
[ http://www.symphonyx.com/ ]
[ http://www.jornlande.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/realjorn ]
[ http://www.magnus-karlsson.com/ ]
[ http://www.locomotivemusic.com/ ]
[ http://www.locomotiverecords.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/locomotiverecords ]
[ principal@... ]
[ http://www.frontiers.it/ ]
THE REVENGE is the second album to feature these two Metal
Heavyweights, Jorn Lande and Russell Allen, but make no mistake,
Magnus Karlsson is the man behind this machine. Magnus writes some
great songs that are perfect for Russell and Jorn to sing. He plays
all of the guitar, bass, and keyboards as well as produces this album.
Magnus knows what he wants and how to achieve it. He has recently
joined the ranks of Primal Fear and I am anxiously awaiting what that
collaboration will bring. As far as the sound of the album, the first
album THE BATTLE, was a little punchier and more in your face, whereas
THE REVENGE sounds a little more compressed and tight, so your
preference in style will determine if you like Magnus' mixing on the
first album versus Dennis Ward's on this one. But for most of us it
comes down to the songs and I believe that the collection of songs
here on THE REVENGE is far superior to THE BATTLE's. I would chalk it
up to the experience that Magnus had from working with Allen and Lande
once already, or it could just be the mindset he was in when writing
this set of songs. Also, in comparison, the guitar solos on this
second album seem much more structured and fit within the framework of
the song better than those on the first album. "The Revenge" is a
great opener with a cool short keyboard intro that lays a great base
for the opening riff. Both singers handle this one and it's incredible
how well their voices mesh together. Good opener with a strong chorus.
"Obsessed" is the second track, sung by Russell. Nothing too special
about this song, one of the few I thought was a filler piece. I do
like Russell's voice better on songs like this, the more melodic side
of him as opposed to the more Metal side that you hear more often than
not with Symphony X. "Victory" is another duet but only a slightly
above average song. "Master Of Sorrow" is the fourth track and this is
when the album really starts to shine. This song starts out as a slow
ballad sung by Jorn. Great lyrics and melody with a soaring chorus,
Jorn just owns this song and puts in a great performance. The solo on
this one is where Magnus ups the ante -- it's well-structured and
ripping, and really contributes to the mood of the song; this is
definitely one of the best songs on the album. Up next is "Will You
Follow," another Russell track. This is one of my favorites on the
album. It's just a well-written, up-tempo song that keeps building to
a great chorus with Russell singing a simple melody over the same
opening guitar riff. The rhythm in the verse really adds to the
anxiousness of the song. This is all capped off by what I believe is
the best guitar solo on the album -- again just so beautifully
crafted, it's melodic, it rips, and flows very well. "Just A Dream" is
another standout track sung by both singers. Magnus contributes some
very melodic guitar work that always complements what the vocal melody
is doing. The tempo is always contributing to the mood of the song as
well. Another great guitar solo; it's a little more abstract but fits
well within the framework of the song. "Her Spell" is Jorn again...and
it's an average track. "Gone Too Far" is another ballad type song with
a heavy chorus; sung by Russell, it's a beautiful song and his
performance is gutsy and emotional. Lyric wise this is my second
favorite on the album and definitely another standout track. The solo
picks up in an up-tempo measure from the chorus but then breaks in to
the slower verse and then builds up again -- done very well. "Wake Up
Call" doesn't do much for me; it's another duet that has a Thin Lizzy
vibe but is just an average song. "Under The Waves" sung by Jorn and
"Who Can You Trust" sung by both are average tracks. The album does
close out on a big note with one of the best songs, "When Time Doesn't
Heal." The songs start with a beautiful acoustic guitar accompanied by
some strings and a slight cry of the guitar in the background. An
emotional performance by both singers as they belt out Magnus's best
lyrics on the album. A great way to end the album. Overall if you're a
fan of either Jorn Lande or Russell Allen I am sure you will find
something on THE REVENGE to like, as well. If you're a fan of melodic
heavy rock with kick-ass vocals and some great guitar playing give
this album a shot.
- Sean P. Gahgan (spgahgan@...)
JORN – THE GATHERING (C) Locomotive Records, 2008
16 tracks, RT: 1:17:49
[ http://www.jornlande.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/realjorn ]
[ http://www.locomotivemusic.com/ ]
[ http://www.locomotiverecords.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/locomotiverecords ]
[ principal@... ]
[ http://www.frontiers.it/ ]
Jorn Lande has often at times been described as a hybrid of David
Coverdale meets Ronnie James Dio. His voice is versatile, gutsy, and
can run the gamut from ballad to all out Metal. THE GATHERING is a
collection of songs from Jorn's solo career with the exception of the
one Millenium track ("Hourglass") included. Most of these songs have
been either re-mixed and/or completely re-recorded, so you are not
just getting rehashed collection of songs, which adds an added
incentive to those who own most of Jorn's collection to add this one
to it. While this album would be a great introduction to someone
unfamiliar with Jorn's catalog, I would by no means agree that it's a
selection of his best songs. There are some definite standouts on the
release such as "Bridges Will Burn," "Sunset Station," "Hourglass,"
"Tungur Knivur," and "Worldchanger," but I would consider most of the
other tracks average. I would have preferred to have seen "Starfire,"
"Stormcrow," "We Brought The Angels Down," "Out To Every Nation,"
"Vision Eyes," or "When Angels Wings Were White" included. With 16
tracks on THE GATHERING you will get a good idea of what Jorn is
about. If you like anything on here than I suggest you check out the
rest of his catalog as he has consistently put out above-average
albums that include some great songs.
- Sean P. Gahgan (spgahgan@...)
PRIMAL FEAR - NEW RELIGION (B-) Locomotive Records, 2008
11 tracks, RT: 54:10
[ http://www.primalfear.de/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/primalfearofficial ]
[ http://www.locomotivemusic.com/ ]
[ http://www.locomotiverecords.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/locomotiverecords ]
[ principal@... ]
[ http://www.frontiers.it/ ]
I must preface the review with the fact that Primal Fear is my
favorite Power Metal band. It is only fair I let you know my mindset
so that you may take this review in the proper context. I have been
following the band ever since I heard the opening riff of
"Chainbreaker" from their debut ripping across the radio waves of a
local Metal station. To me Primal Fear has always been about loud
guitars, wailing vocals, and reckless abandonment in writing slamming
songs, songs that get your blood pumping. Although the band has gone
through numerous lineup changes with vocalist Ralf Scheepers and
bassist Mat Sinner being the foundation, the band has always kept
their guitar sound focused and somewhat familiar. This is one aspect
that draws me to the band, with some of the best sounding rhythm
guitars around the Metal scene. So while many who are unfamiliar with
Primal Fear's catalog would give this release an "A" on its own merit,
my grade is based upon where it stands amongst their entire career.
The first thought when I hear this album is that the trademark guitar
sound I spoke of seems to be thinned out a bit too much for my taste.
Not enough warmth there and a bit too trebly. Other than that the
production is top-notch thanks to the engineering of music wunderkind
Charlie Bauerfeind. The main reason this review's grade is a "B-" is
because while NEW RELIGION has some of Primal Fear's best written
songs to date, it also contains a lot of filler in my opinion. Also, I
really miss Tom Naumann on guitar, just a personal preference. Now
with that said, onto the songs... "Sign Of Fear" is a great opening
track that showcases the great drum sound the band was able to
capture. Ralf opens up with a shrieking scream. (What else would you
expect?) This song is a solid opener and also transitions well live.
"Face The Emptiness" is one of the best songs on the album, an up-
tempo melodic song accented by the orchestration that will become
fluid throughout the album. The lyrics are some of Primal Fear's best
and the way Ralf conveys the desperation and emotion is one of his
finest performances to date. "Everytime It Rains" is an album standout
as Ralf's duet with Simone Simons of Epica sends shiver down the
spine. Simone's velvet smooth voice caresses the ears and blends
together fabulously with Ralf. The string arrangement heightens the
mood and the heavy plodding yet tight rhythm section provides the
perfect backdrop for these two stellar voices. "New Religion" is a
decent straight-ahead song, but average for Primal Fear. "Fighting The
Darkness" is another exceptional song, heavily orchestrated and epic
in every sense. The powerful lyrics and even a more powerful
performance by Ralf are complemented by a punchy rhythm section. There
is a haunting piano melody in the verse that crescendos in the chorus,
and Ralf has never sounded as good as he does here. This song is
followed by "The Darkness," which is a complementary instrumental to
the preceding song, and then there is a short reprise of "Fighting The
Darkness" to make these three songs a trilogy. "Blood On Your Hands"
is a decent song but the average music doesn't complement the above
average lyrics. "The Curse Of Sharon" (no, this is not about Sharon
Osbourne), "Too Much Time," "Psycho," and "World On Fire" are just
fillers to me. The songs almost sound forced and formulated. "The Man
(That I Don't Know)" finishes the album on the epic note and brings
back the blend of orchestration and heaviness that has lent itself to
the album's best songs. The introspective lyrics of this "power
balled" again shine thanks to a convincing vocal performance by Ralf.
The solo doesn't quite seem to add to the song's feel; it is lacking
the proper emotion to fully complement the mood. I know that due to
certain circumstances (Stefan Leibing was transitioning out of the
band) most of this album was recorded with only Henny Wolter on guitar
and perhaps that is why there is a lack of duel lead guitars that has
always been a fan favorite of Primal Fear's. This is not a knock on
Henny in anyway as he is a killer guitarist, just an observation. NEW
RELIGION is a good album and sits right in the middle of their catalog
as far as rankings go. They band really shines at times on this album
and is a must for any Primal Fear fans and would serve as a great
introduction to the band for anyone unfamiliar with them.
- Sean P. Gahgan (spgahgan@...)
*
*** FEEDBACK ***
*
1. From: twistedvincent@... (Mark Vincent)
Re: Death Magnetic
Well I'll say it!!!!!!!
I don't give a f*ck about anybody else and their petty gripes...
I'm a 44 year old ORIGINAL Metallica fan....as a matter of fact they
slept on the floor of my friend Bob Thomas during the recording of
Kill 'Em All in Rochester NY in the early 80's. They were a part of
our little metal crowd...
I was at the Kill'en all For One show with Raven and still have the
ticket (in tact I might add) to prove it...blah, blah, blah... Like
many others...I gave up on Metallica after many lackluster...non-
Metallica cd's over the years...
My point is; This is finally the return to form ANY (Every?) true
Metallica fan has been waiting for.
F*ck the critics and naysayers who believe otherwise.
I truly have been hard on Metallica over the years...but this really
is an awesome cd.
*
*** OUT ***
*