Detritus
Issue #485
Week of January 12, 2009
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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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-Hey, it's only like a -30 wind chill today in Chicago. That's not too
bad. People are actually wearing coats and gloves and stuff. :) - Tim

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*** PRESS RELEASE #1 ***
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-"Osbournes: Reloaded" Searching For Ozzy's BIGGEST Fan

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

The Osbournes' brand-new variety show for Fox ("Osbournes: Reloaded")
is searching for the biggest, baddest Ozzy Osbourne superfans who are
willing to do anything (and we mean ANYTHING!) to meet him. We
definitely want to push the boundaries. Think eating bugs, licking
belly buttons, getting pierced, shaving your head, getting tattooed,
etc. If you've always dreamed of meeting Ozzy Osbourne and know that
you'd be willing to do whatever it takes, we want to hear from you!

We're looking for HUGE fans from Southern California. If this is you,
please shoot an e-mail to producer Brian Updyke
[brian.updyke@...] with your name, age, location, a recent
photo, and a brief paragraph explaining why you're the ultimate Ozzy
superfan and deserve to meet your idol.

http://www.ozzy.com/

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*** PRESS RELEASE #2 ***
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-Duff McKagan's Loaded Complete New Album, Post New Webisode &
Announce NAMM Appearances

There are few individuals around today that exemplify the term "idol"
or "legend," but one of Seattle's own stands tall amongst this chosen
minority. This person is Duff McKagan and anybody would be hard
pressed to dispute that he is the epitome of a hard rock icon. In
2009, with his latest, appropriately titled project, Duff McKagan's
Loaded, he gets a chance to add another chapter to his already storied
career further showing his songwriting prowess and versatility
assuming the role of vocalist/guitarist. This is an all out assault of
pure rock and punk infused fury that pulls no punches.

Duff McKagan's Loaded have completed work on their massively
anticipated new full-length album, SICK, which was recorded by Martin
Feveyear (Presidents Of The United States Of America, Kings Of Leon)
and is set for an April release. A new webisode documenting the band's
recent U.K. tour can be viewed at the link below. See the meaning
behind the term "Road Gay," travel with the band for a photo shoot at
the infamous Loch Ness and witness how insane the Brits are for Duff
and company.

Duff has also announced the following NAMM signings.

Saturday, Jan. 17th
12 p.m. to 1 p.m. - Rotosound Booth
1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. - Gallien Krueger Booth
2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. - Jim Dunlop Booth

McKagan further states: "Well now... a new year is here and with it
will come the release of Loaded's first, full-length Century Media
release, SICK, this spring. We spent the last part of '08 finishing up
the record as well as playing a few gigs around our hometown of
Seattle. If anyone is interested, Geoff, Jeff, Mike and I will be at
the NAMM show in Anaheim on Jan. 17th. I will be at the GK, Fender,
RotoSound, and Dunlop booths. Jeff will be at GK, Fender, and Dunlop.
Geoff will be found hangin at DW, Sabian, Vic Firth or poolside. Mike
will be recruiting members at Disneyland for his now infamous 'Squires
Army.' We look forward to seeing you all soon."

Duff McKagan's Loaded was formed in 1999 and has morphed several
times, releasing two albums: 1999's LIVE EPISODE and 2001's DARK DAYS.
The current lineup features drummer Geoff Reading (New American Shame,
Green Apple Quickstep), bassist Jeff Rouse and guitarist Mike Squires
(both formerly of Alien Crime Syndicate). This tight-knit group of
rock n' roll brothers brings their high-energy to every stage, from
Seattle's Sunset Tavern to Tokyo's NK Hall.

Check out Duff McKagan's Loaded on MySpace!
http://www.myspace.com/loadedlamf

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*** PRESS RELEASE #3 ***
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-"The Greatest Music Ever Created And How It Ruined Our Lives" Episode
#6, Featuring Paul Konerko (Chicago White Sox) and Lemmy, Is Up!

PHOENIX, AZ -- The new episode of "Eric Braverman's The Greatest Music
Ever Created And How It Ruined Our Lives" is now available for
viewing. This episode finds Metal Overlorde Eric Braverman first
meeting up with Chicago White Sox first baseman and metal enthusiast
Paul Konerko. The duo discuss Paul's favourite band, Metallica, and
the power of heavy metal music and, in particular, how it gets him
pumped up before a game. Konerko also compares a baseball team's pre
game warmup to a metal band's soundcheck.

Next Braverman hooks up with the legend known as Lemmy. The Motorhead
mainman discusses The Beatles, World War II, video games, his disdain
for politicians and of course, the importance of Motorhead in modern
culture and society.

Eric also finds himself at the mercy of a lunatic director who he just
can't seem to please...

The episode can be viewed at:

http://www.killingtimeproductions.com/content/metal/6/

As always, watch until the very end, as you never know what may
transpire.

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*** PRESS RELEASE #4 ***
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-Keel Reunion Concert Saturday, January 31st, 2009 In Hollywood: Club
Vodka @ The Knitting Factory

All-Star Jam Following Keel's Performance Featuring Many Legends Of
'80s Rock

HOLLYWOOD, CA -- The Keel "Debut Reunion Concert" will take place in
Hollywood on Saturday, January 31st. The location for this historic
event will be Club Vodka at The Knitting Factory. Tickets $18 advance,
$20 day of show -- to purchase tickets, visit http://clubvodka.com/ ,
CLUB VODKA at The Knitting Factory, 7021 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles,
California 90028 -- venue phone: 323.463.0204.

2009 will mark iconic metal band Keel's 25th anniversary, and the
passing of two decades since the original lineup played on stage
together. Unlike most of their contemporaries, none of the members has
ever performed as Keel since 1989.

Ron Keel, guitarists Marc Ferrari & Bryan Jay, drummer Dwain Miller
along with Geno Arce (Ron's long-time bassist) are preparing to
perform again for the first time in 20 years. "It would not have been
right without these guys," expresses Ron Keel. With the high volume of
requests for the band to reunite, the members felt the time is right
to deliver the show fans everywhere have been demanding: a Keel
reunion.

In 1985, THE RIGHT TO ROCK became the fastest-selling debut album in
A&M Record's history. Selling over 2 million albums the band was
proclaimed the Best New Band by Metal Edge and Circus Magazines.

The title track was a hit on radio & MTV and remains a staple on VH1
Classic, in addition to the group's subsequent hits "Tears Of Fire,"
"Because The Night," "Somebody's Waiting,"and "Rock & Roll Outlaw."
They developed a reputation as one of the genre's most entertaining
live acts, opening for heavyweights like Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, and Van
Halen amongst many others.

Plans are for Keel to reunite at a select number of festivals and
showcase dates in 2009 to perform all their hits and classic favorites
in celebration of 25 years of rock n roll history -- visit the Web
site and MySpace for details.

For more information go to http://www.keelreunion.com/ and
http://www.myspace.com/keelband .

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*** PRESS RELEASE #5 ***
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-Wolf: New Song At Revamped MySpace Profile Available!

Sweden's masters of kick-ass heavy metal Wolf are about to return in
full metallic glory with their brand-new album RAVENOUS. As a first
glimpse at what to expect of the highly anticipated new effort the
song "Curse You Salem" has now been posted at
http://www.myspace.com/wolfheavymetal , bang your head on this one!
The band reveals more about the track:

"'Curse You Salem' is a genuine Wolf song. We think it's got all the
elements our listeners demand from us and we're certain our fans will
listen to it and go 'Hell yes, that's Wolf!' We felt that while
writing it, and bringing it to life while recording it was a blast. It
will most certainly be included in our live set. The song deals with
the witch hunts that took place in Salem, Massachusetts somewhat 300
years ago and the lyrics are written according to actual events as
well as real people connected to the events that took place. This song
& topic fits Wolf like a spiked wristband on Kerry King!"

RAVENOUS also features a smashing guitar solo by Hank Shermann (Force
Of Evil, Mercyful Fate) and guest vocals by Marc Boals (ex-Malmsteen).
For the fierce and bloody artwork, the band once again decided to work
with their longtime cover artist Thomas Holm (Mercyful Fate), the band
states:

"He has the ability to 'paint our music' and that's something we're
not gonna pass up on."

Topped off by the phenomenal production by Roy Z (Bruce Dickinson,
Judas Priest) RAVENOUS promises a heavy metal delicacy par excellence!

Wolf have also finished their brand new video clip for the song
"Voodoo," which will be premiered soon, so stay tuned!

RAVENOUS will be released on the following dates:

GERMANY/AUSTRIA/SWITZERLAND/BENELUX / ITALY: Friday, February 20,
2009.
UK/FRANCE/GREECE/DENMARK/NORWAY REST OF EUROPE: Monday, February 23,
2009.
SPAIN/PORTUGAL: Tuesday, February 24,2009.
SWEDEN/FINLAND/HUNGARY: Wednesday, February 25, 2009.
USA: Tuesday, March 24, 2009.

... rest assured, real metal is back with a vengeance! ...

Visit Wolf online:

http://www.wolf.nu/
http://www.myspace.com/wolfheavymetal
http://www.youtube.com/axemanwolf

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*** PRESS RELEASE #6 ***
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-Nightmare Metal Fest Announces First Confirmed Bands: Jag Panzer And
Krucible And More

SAN ANTONIO, TX -- Come join the underground Prog/Power Metal
revolution! Nightmare Metal Fest II will be held this year in San
Antonio, Texas on Friday, March 20th and Saturday, March 21st. We're
very excited to announce in its second year, Nightmare Metal Fest,
will take place at The Warehouse Music Venue right on the River Walk
in San Antonio.

We are going to have a stellar lineup and are proud to announce the
first confirmations: the prolific Jag Panzer, Chicago-based Mindwarp
Chamber, Krucible (featuring members of Pyramaze, Balance Of Power,
Helstar, Z-Lot-Z, Cea Serin and Six Minute Century), on the heels of
their newly released debut album A MANIFESTO FOR DOMINATION Halcyon
Way, and a return performance from Sacred Dawn.

2008's version of the festival was held at Bourbon Street outside
Tampa, Florida. The festival is brought to you by Nightmare Records,
Metal Edge, RockNation, Rob's Metal Works, PerfectProg.com and
Intellitouch Tuners.

Please visit http://www.NightmareMetalFest.com/ and add us as your
friend at http://www.Myspace.com/NightmareMetalFestival for more
information on the festival.

For more information on the venue, please visit
http://www.Myspace.com/WarehouseMusicSA .

Platnum Member Passes (VIP) go on sale January 15th and are limited to
30 tickets only!

General Admission Tickets go on sale January 27th on and key local
metal music shops in San Antonio.

For more information, visit http://www.NightmareMetalFest.com/ .

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*** PRESS RELEASE #7 ***
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-RockNation Goes To The NAMM Show

RockNation to appear exclusively at the Ernie Ball Booth to film
feature interviews for "RockNation TV"

It is the third weekend in January so it must be time for the NAMM
show. The NAMM show is THE four-day industry-only showcase for
everything music and RockNation will be there. RockNation has
partnered with Ernie Ball exclusively to film some of their noted
artists in the famed Ernie Ball booth. Anybody that has traveled the
halls of NAMM knows that Ernie Ball always has THE Booth to see as
there is a different theme every year.

Jeffrey Easton, RockNation's West Coast VJ, will be officiating the
event.

NAMM is an industry only event, not open to the public. NAMM, Believe
In Music.

"RockNation TV" is one of the fastest growing outlets for rock videos
and feature interviews in the U.S. and 2009 is shaping up to be their
biggest year to date. "RockNation" will also be airing exclusive
interviews with Judas Priest, Ronnie James Dio, Buckcherry, Testament
and many others in the future episodes.

For more information, please contact Tom Mathers at
rocknation@... with all inquiries.

http://www.namm.org/
http://www.ernieball.com/
http://www.rocknation.us/

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*** PRESS RELEASE #8 ***
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-Tribute To Michelle Meldrum At NAMM 2009

HOLLYWOOD, CA -- Guitarist Michelle Meldrum (Meldrum, Phantom Blue)
will be honored at the 2009 NAMM in the main lobby of the convention
center Thursday, January 15th at 5:00 p.m. For more on the tribute
please click here:

http://www.namm.org/library/articles/memoriam-tribute-industry-leaders

On May 18, 2008 Michelle Meldrum, leader of the band Meldrum and
former Phantom Blue guitarist, was rushed to St. Joseph's Hospital in
Burbank in critical condition. She passed away late afternoon
Wednesday, May 21, 2008 as a result of a cystic growth that had
restricted oxygen and blood flow to her brain rendering her brain
dead.

Meldrum had just completed writing and recording the band's soon to be
released album with drummer Gene Hoglan, along with the new lineup
Michele Madden (vocals) and Laura Christine (bass). The surviving band
members plan to release the album later this year in tribute to their
fallen band mate.

Those who knew Michelle recognize that she lived every moment for the
music, and was regarded as both an exceptional guitarist and a
nurturer by her associates, friends, family and son.

Meldrum, 39 is survived by her parents and three-year-old son, Jake
Thomas. Her family and band members appreciate all the support that
has been shown over the past few days through this trying time. A
memorial tribute benefit will be announced in the following weeks.

Michelle Meldrum was born on Sept 28, 1968 in Detroit, Michigan to a
family of musicians and actors. At 13, Meldrum moved to Los Angeles,
California and started her career in music by forming the thrash metal
band Wargod with drummer Gene Hoglan (Dark Angel, Death, and Strapping
Young Lad). When Wargod disbanded Meldrum continued her search for a
band and become both co-founder and lead guitarist in all girl metal/
rock band Phantom Blue. Phantom Blue released their self-titled debut
album on Shrapnel Records as well as Roadrunner Records, and
eventually landed a deal with major label Geffen.

Once Phantom Blue disbanded after a successful run at fame, Michelle
Meldrum moved to Sweden and formed her current band Meldrum. After
many triumphant tours with such acts as Motorhead and Black Label
Society, she reunited with Hoglan in 2006. Hoglan had appeared as a
special guest on the Meldrum album prior and played several events.
Inspired to once again collaborate, Meldrum moved back to America
where she and Hoglan began writing the aforementioned third Meldrum
album together.

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*** PRESS RELEASE #9 ***
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-Testament Schedules Signing Sessions At NAMM

Members of the veteran San Francisco Bay Area thrash band Testament
will attend this year's NAMM (National Association Of Music Merchants)
show, which is being held January 15-18 at the Anaheim Convention
Center in Anaheim, California.

Testament will take part in the following signing sessions:

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16:

Eric Peterson @ Dean Guitars booth (11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.)

Alex Skolnick and Greg Christian @ Peavey Amps booth (1 p.m. - 1:30
p.m.)

Paul Bostaph @ Paiste cymbals booth (2 p.m. - 4 p.m.)

Alex Skolnick @ RockHouse videos booth (2 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.)

Alex Skolnick @ Yamaha Acoustic Guitars booth (3 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.)

Alex Skolnick Trio - Performance @ Hilton Pulse Lounge (9:00 p.m.)

SATURDAY, JANUARY 17:

Alex Skolnick @ Yamaha Acoustic Guitars booth (12 p.m. - 12:30 p.m.)

Alex Skolnick @ Yamaha Acoustic Guitars booth (1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.)

Chuck Billy @ Nady Microphone Booth (3 p.m. - 4 p.m.)

Eric Peterson @ Dean Guitars booth (3 p.m. - 4 p.m.)

Alex Skolnick @ Yamaha Acoustic Guitars booth (3 p.m.)
Yamaha acoustic guitar performance with Joe Bonnamasso

See http://www.testamentlegions.com/ and
http://www.myspace.com/testamentlegions for more.

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*** PRESS RELEASE #10 ***
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-Statetrooper Tour

Gary Barden, fresh from the recent dates with MSG, once more leads
Statetrooper on the road, as they embark on a European tour.

The band, which also features Bruce Bisland (Sweet), Jeff Summers
(Weapon) and Martin Mickels, will be touring to support the release of
their live album, SWEDEN CALLING, which will be exclusively available
on the dates, prior to the official release later in the year. The
band are supported on all shows by Crimes Of Passion and Past MD.

The dates are:

FEB 6th - The Yardbirds, Grimsby
FEB 7th - The Sheffield Corporation
FEB 8th - JB's, Dudley
FEB 14th - The Rock, Copenhagen, Denmark
FEB 15th - The Ballroom, Hamburg, Germany
FEB 16th - LCB, Wuppertal, Germany
FEB 18th - 7er Club, Mannheim, Germany
FEB 19th - Rock City, Uster, Switzerland
FEB 20th - Motorockas, Bologna, Italy
FEB 21st - Il Peocio, Trofarello, Italy
FEB 28th - The Underworld, Camden, London

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*** PRESS RELEASE #11 ***
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-Creedence's Hit Becomes A Soccer Anthem In Brazil

[Note: This is from RoadieCrew.com's Thiago Sarkis. - Tim]

Creedence's hit "Have You Ever Seen The Rain" is now a soccer anthem
in Brazil. The supporters of Atletico-MG, first Brazilian Champion
(1971), have been singing the song during the games. The title of the
version created by the fans of the team is "Galo - A Razão Do Meu
Viver" ("Galo - The Reason Of My Living"). Galo (rooster) is the
mascot of the traditional club.

The success of the classic Rock song in Brazilian stadiums --
especially Mineirao, the home of Galo where the team usually plays for
over 60 thousand people -- came to the knowledge of Creedence's
founding member Stu Cook. The bassist talked to Thiago Sarkis from
Roadie Crew Magazine earlier this month and recorded a message
congratulating Atletico-MG for its 100th-anniversary.

The whole story was published at Solada:

http://solada.wordpress.com/2008/12/21/creedence-parabeniza-atletico-
mg-por-seu-centenario

Stu's tribute can be heard at:

http://www.mp3tube.net/play.swf?id=3afd509a360351e07c5b24dc43a5024f

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*** PRESS RELEASE #12 ***
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-Blues/Rock Guitarist Pat Travers On 2009 Tour

STICK WITH WHAT YOU KNOW - LIVE IN EUROPE On Provogue Records In
Stores NOW!!

HOLLYWOOD, CA -- Revered blues/rock guitar guru Pat Travers is back
out and touring including select shows performing live acoustic and
the rest full electric Pat Travers Band. This tour is on the tail end
of 2008's successful long awaited tour that was in support of his new
live release STICK WITH WHAT YOU KNOW - LIVE IN EUROPE on Provogue
Records. The current lineup for the Pat Travers band is Pat Travers
(Guitar, Vox), Kirk McKim (Lead Guitar, Backing Vox), Sean "The
Cannon" Shannon (Drums) and Rodney O'Quinn (Bass, Backing Vocals).

This hard rocking blues performance is in the true Pat Travers
signature style, in your face full of big guitars. The album was
recorded live at the Bosuil in Weert, The Netherlands. The Pat Travers
band on this live performance consists of Pat Travers (guitars, slide
guitar & vocals), Kirk McKim (guitar & backing vocals), Frank McDaniel
(bass & backing vocals) and Eric Frates (drums & backing vocals). The
album was mixed at the Red Room Studios by Sean Shannon assisted by
Brad Johnson.

Tour Dates:

Jan 15 - Pat & Kirk Acoustic - Tugboat Tavern - Cohoes, NY
Jan 18 - Pat & Kirk Acoustic - Sweet Caroline's - Manchester, VA
Jan 23 - Pat Travers Band - Clearwater Theatre - West Dundee, IL
Jan 24 - Pat Travers Band - New York, New York - Chesterfield, MI
Jan 29 - Pat & Kirk Acoustic - Fishlips - Bakersfield, CA
Jan 31 - Pat & Kirk Acoustic - Planet Gemini - Monterey, CA
Feb 1 - Pat & Kirk Acoustic - Tommy T's - Pleasanton, CA
Feb 19 - Pat Travers Band - Route 33 Rhythym & Brews - Wapakoneta, OH
Feb 21 - Pat Travers Band - Rockin Horse - Mansfield, OH
Feb 26 - Pat Travers Band - Jumpin Turtle - San Diego, CA
Feb 27 - Pat Travers Band - Cashe Creek Casino - Brooks, CA

For more information on this extraordinary live performance album go
to http://www.pattravers.com/ or http://www.provoguerecords.com/ .

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*** PRESS RELEASE #13 ***
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-Les Claypool's Latest Masterpiece OF FUNGI AND FOE To Release March
17th On Prawn Song Records

HOLLYWOOD, CA -- Les Claypool will release yet another brilliant work
of art, OF FUNGI AND FOE, March 17, 2009 on Prawn Song Records.

OF FUNGI AND FOE is the expansion of material Claypool has recorded
over the past few years for the video game "Mushroom Men" and the
motion picture "Pig Hunt." Being inspired by these two projects
Claypool decided to keep creating and turn it into an album. The song
"Mushroom Men" on this release is a more in-depth version of the theme
song from the video game. Additionally a jam session with Gogol
Bordello's charismatic front man Eugene Hutz turned into the track
"Bite Out Of Life."

Since his last album release, 2006's OF WHALES AND WOE, Claypool has
been busy with his films, scoring others' films and video games while
having fun out on tour. This album is a collection of songs inspired
by the projects he has been working on over the past few years.

Long acknowledged as one of rock's leading bassists, Claypool began
branching out from the alt-rock sound of Primus in 2000, starting
Colonel Claypool's Fearless Flying Frog Brigade, courting the jam band
audience and beyond. Selling over 500,000 CDs since then under a few
different band names (including Oysterhead with the Police's Stewart
Copeland and Trey Anastasio of Phish), Claypool put out the career
spanning DVD 5 GALLONS OF DIESEL in 2005 and the live tour DVD FANCY
in 2007.

Track listing:

1. Mushroom Men
2. Amanitas
3. Red State Girl
4. Booneville Stomp
5. What Would Sir George Martin Do
6. You Can't Tell Errol Anything
7. Bite Out Of Life * Featuring Eugene Hutz
8. Kazoo
9. Primed By 29
10. Pretty Little Song
11. Rosco

For more information go to http://www.lesclaypool.com/ or
http://www.myspace.com/thereallesclaypool .

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*** PRESS RELEASE #14 ***
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-New MVD Exclusive Titles: Iggy Pop - LUST FOR LIFE

This DVD was filmed in 1986 when Iggy was enjoying a successful period
with the release of the BLAH BLAH BLAH album and the hit single "Real
Wild Child." The film captures Iggy on the tour and away from the
stage for a series of interviews that cover his career up to that
moment in time. Stooges guitarist Ron Asheton is also interviewed and
like Iggy goes into detail concerning The Stooges and their perception
of why the band split. Filled with exclusive interview and archive
footage, some of which has never been seen. This film paints a full
picture of one of rock music's enduring talents.

Bonus Materials:

o Archive footage and exclusive interview footage

DVD
SKU #: ABCVP124DVD
UPC: 604388715909
SRP: $18.95
Box Lot: 30
Run Time: 41 mins.
Label: ZEIT1
Genre: Pop/Rock
PreBook Date: 01/06/2009
Street Date: 02/10/2009

» High Res Image
http://files.dvdnote.com/images/300dpi/abcvp124dvd.jpg

» Sales Sheet (PDF)
http://files.dvdnote.com/pdfs/abcvp124dvd.pdf

MVD

on the web
http://mvdb2b.com/

phone
1-800-888-0486

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*** PRESS RELEASE #15 ***
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-Static-X Unleash New Album In 2009

CULT OF STATIC To Be Released March 17th On Reprise Records

Dave Mustaine Of Megadeth Shreds Guitar Solo On The New Version Of
"Lunatic"

BURBANK, CA -- The Industrial Metal Machine called Static-X returns
with their heaviest, most flammable work to date. CULT OF STATIC, on
Reprise Records, marries the band's aggressive driving force with
disarming experimentation.

The fiery raw quality of CULT OF STATIC is blatant as the first single
"Stingwray" hits airwaves February 14th. "Stingwray" was inspired by
Wayne Static's wife Tera Wray Static and the Corvette Stingray she
drives. The song's powerful beats and heavy guitar riffs make this
song a commanding force on the record.

Keeping the integral tones, Static-X encompasses shredding guitars
with solos that have brought the band to a level of playing to be
reckoned with. The cybernetic stomp of "Hypure" and "You Am I"
bludgeon, bruise and break with precise grooves. Elsewhere, the
staccato riffs on "Terminal" crush through an unmistakable guitar
tone. Guitarist Koichi Fukuda blazes through incendiary solos, while
Tony Campos bolts down demonic bass lines and Nick Oshiro pounds out
deadly rhythms. Front-man Wayne Static riffs pure violence and screams
out his soul. "Over the years my voice has been destroyed from
excessive touring... and I love it," exclaims Static. "The vocals on
the new record are raw and brutal."

A song you may already be familiar with is "Lunatic" as it was
included on the "Punisher: War Zone" movie soundtrack. Although
"Lunatic" is relentless and raw, brandishing a ripping groove and an
impenetrable barrier of guitars the album cut was re-recorded to
feature a solo by legendary Megadeth front man Dave Mustaine. "I've
been a huge Megadeth fan for years," explains Static. "We've toured
with them twice. Mustaine and I really hit it off on the road. His
lead style is one of the most distinctive styles out there. There's
something amazing about it. When you hear him solo, you know it's
him."

Since their breakthrough debut, WISCONSIN DEATH TRIP, Static-X has
sold over three million records, and they've completed numerous
successful world tours including three Ozzfests, The Family Values
Tour and Gigantour. CULT OF STATIC is the bastard child of a 10 year
journey of metal annihilation, unleashing the beast to all in their
path. "I can hardly believe it's been a decade since the release of
our first CD, WISCONSIN DEATH TRIP, and we're still going strong
thanks to all of our loyal fans," explains Static. "The title CULT OF
STATIC is meant to be a big thank-you to everyone who has supported us
through the years. I'm looking forward to seeing you all on the
upcoming world tour."

Track List:

1. Lunatic
2. Z28
3. Terminal
4. Hypure
5. Tera-Fied
6. Stingwray
7. You Am I
8. Isolaytore
9. Nocturnally
10. Skinned
11. Grind 2 Halt

For more information go to http://www.myspace.com/staticx or
http://www.static-x.com/ .

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*** PRESS RELEASE #16 ***
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-Z Records News

Release Schedule Changes

Sadly the credit crunch has also hit the record industry proving that
all of us are affected in some way. Two distribution agents have
folded of late which has now delayed some of our planned releases
whilst we search for new partners. We anticipate releases to commence
in four weeks time. Watch this space for details.

Eden Set To Light Up JB's As Support To Tyketto

Don't forget our very own Eden will be appearing with Tyketto on
January 22nd at JB's Dudley. Get down there for a great night, for
ticket info call 01384 253597. Eden will be on stage at 8 p.m.

Z Internet Down

Apologies if you e-mailed us between 5 p.m. Monday and 1 p.m.
Wednesday and you have not yet had a reply. Our ISP went down
rendering our mailservers inactive. This problem has now been
rectified.

http://www.zrecords.net/
http://www.myspace.com/zrockrecordsuk
http://www.myspace.com/zrockfest

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #17 ***
*
-Sweden's Fatal Smile: European Tour With Lordi!

Sweden's number one hard rock superstars Fatal Smile will be touring
in Europe for two months with Eurovision winners Lordi. Fatal Smile's
album WORLD DOMINATION is also nominated for the "Best Glam/Sleaze
Album 2008" at the Swedish Metal Awards and that's actually no suprise
since the album was mixed by the legendary Michael Wagener, famous for
his work with Metallica, Ozzy Osbourne, Mötley Crüe just to name a
few...

So make sure to catch Fatal Smile & Lordi on the following dates &
venues:

24.01.09 SWE-Lund - Mejeriet
25.01.09 SWE-Stockholm - Arenan
26.01.09 SWE-Gothenburg - Traedgarn
29.01.09 GER-Hamburg - Docks
30.01.09 GER-Herford - X
31.01.09 GER-Oberhausen - Turbinenhalle
01.02.09 NED-Purmerend - P3
03.02.09 GER-Nuernberg - Loewensaal
05.02.09 GER-Muenchen - Tonhalle
06.02.09 GER-Stuttgart - Filharmonie
07.02.09 GER-Saarbruecken - E-Werk
10.02.09 GER-Bremen - Aladin
12.02.09 GBR-London - Carling Academy
13.02.09 GBR-Dudley - JB's
15.02.09 IRE-Dublin - Button factory
16.02.09 GBR-Sheffield - Carling Academy
18.02.09 FRA-Paris - Elyssee Montmartre
20.02.09 ES-Barcelona - Apolo
21.02.09 ES-Bilbao - Rock Star Live
22.02.09 ES-Madrid - Heineken
24.02.09 FRA-Toulouse - Havana
25.02.09 FRA-Lyon - Transbordeur
26.02.09 ITA-Milan - Rolling Stone
27.02.09 ITA-Rom - Alpheus
02.03.09 FRA-Mulhouse - Noumatrouff
04.03.09 SWI-Zuerich - Rohstofflager
06.03.09 BUL-Sofia - Hristo Botev Hall
07.03.09 SER-Beograd - SKC
08.03.09 tba
09.03.09 AUT-Woergl - Komma
11.03.09 HUN-Budapest - Petöfi Hall
12.03.09 AUT-Wien - Gasometer
14.03.09 tba
16.03.09 CZE-Pardubice - Small Arena
17.03.09 CZE-Ostrava - CEZ Arena
18.03.09 CZE-Plzen - Halla Locomotiva
22.03.09 FIN-Levi - Hullu Poro Arena
23.03.09 FIN-Ylläs - Taiga

Please visit the following Web sites for more info:

http://www.fatalsmile.com/
http://www.myspace.com/fatalsmile1

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*** PRESS RELEASE #18 ***
*
-New Stuff From Radiant!

Happy New Year to you! We at Radiant hope that you will be doing fine
in '09.

No new releases right now but Neal wanted me to tell you about the
Inner Circle disc for January 09.

Neal Morse's Question Mark Album - Roine's Love Mix

When Neal was recording the acclaimed "Question Mark" album he sent
the whole thing to Roine Stolt of the Flower Kings and Transatlantic
and told him to do "whatever you feel." Neals says "Roine always added
so many cool and sometimes crazy parts to the TA stuff... I mean WAY
more than just guitar... I'm talking about percussion and sound FX...
vocals...all kinds of stuff and you'd never know what you would get.
Well, he did that on the ? CD but, as Rich was mixing there were a lot
of things that didn't get used. Some of which is really cool stuff..."

Anyway, this is a version of the whole "Question Mark" CD with all of
Roine's stuff turned up REALLY loud. It was originally made by Jerry
Guidroz (Neal's engineer) so that Neal could hear everything that
Roine did. It is definitely a rough mix but we think you'll enjoy it a
lot. Just to be clear, Roine did not mix this. We just thought it was
a good name for the disc.

Wait 'til you hear it! There is some AMAZING stuff in there. Instead
of Steve Hackett's solo you get to hear two of Roine's, and a lot of
other surprises as well. Words can't describe it. You must experience
it.

NOW SHIPPING! To receive this great disc you must sign up for the Neal
Morse Inner Circle by Jan. 19th. Just go to http://www.nealmorse.com/
, click on the Inner Circle banner and follow the instructions. Come
on! It's cheap!

Thanks,
Cherie Morse

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

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #19 ***
*
-Sweden's Cirkus Gives Away Free Download!

Welcome to the Cirkus... Let the Madness Begin...

Cirkus is celebrating the start of the new year, their new Cirkus
Freak Shop and last but not least, their debut album LET THE MADNESS
BEGIN by giving away one of their previously released songs for free!

Download "D.O.A." (taken from the EP/Demo 2006 SHUT UP N' SUCK) in MP3
format to your computer by clicking on the following link:

http://www.cirkusmusic.se/index2.php?page=doadownload

(To download the MP3 right click on the link and "save target as." If
you have a tool to unzip files you can download the zip file by just
clicking on the link.)

Download the track "D.O.A." for FREE

Taken from the demo compilation WAITING FOR THE MADNESS

Buy the CD and much more at the new Cirkus Freak Shop and don't forget
to check out Cirkus debut album LET THE MADNESS BEGIN.

http://www.cirkusmusic.com/

Samples of all songs and more info can be found at:

http://www.cirkusmusic.com/
http://www.myspace.com/cirkusmusic

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #20 ***
*
-Blessed By A Broken Heart Announce Lineup Changes For Upcoming
Terminatour

Blessed By A Broken Heart are the kings of rock 'n roll excess and are
currently gearing up for their first U.S. tour in support of their
Century Media debut, PEDAL TO THE MEDAL. The band has been hearing
rumors regarding the departure of Da Bird swirling around the upcoming
Terminatour with Love Hate Hero, Agraceful, Karate High School and
Kiros and front man Tony Gambino has decided to clear up the issue for
everyone.

"So here is the rumor on the streets... Slater is going to play drums
for the Terminatour, and we just picked up the keyboard player / synth
legend from Still Remains! His name is Ben, but you can call him Rex
Krueger!!! Be sure that you are at these shows, you're not going to
want to miss this action!!!!!!! P.S., don't worry; Bird is still a
part of BBABH!!!"

Blessed By A Broken Heart
w/ Love Hate Hero, Agraceful, Karate High School & Kiros

01/16 - The Attic - Dayton, OH
01/17 - The Hayloft - Detroit, MI
01/18 - Xtreme Wheels - Buffalo, NY
01/19 - The Haunt - Yonkers, NY
01/21 - Valentine's - Albany, NY
01/22 - Crocodile Rock - Allentown, PA
01/23 - Harmony Grange - Wilmington, DE
01/24 - Jaxx - Springfield, VA
01/25 - The Mainstage - Pompton Lakes, NJ
01/26 - Peppermint Beach Club - Virginia Beach, VA
01/27 - The 7 Venue - Douglasville, GA
01/28 - The Orpheum - Tampa, FL
01/29 - Fuel - Jacksonville, FL
01/30 - The High Ground - New Orleans, LA
01/31 - White Rabbit - San Antonio, TX
02/01 - Java Jazz - Houston, TX
02/02 - The Compound - Corpus Christi, TX
02/04 - Chic's - El Paso, TX
02/05 - TBA - Phoenix, AZ
02/06 - Soma - San Diego, CA
02/07 - Chain Reaction - Anaheim, CA
02/08 - The Whisky - Los Angeles, CA

Check out Blessed By A Broken Heart on MySpace:
http://www.myspace.com/blessedbyabrokenheart

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #21 ***
*
-Soilwork Reveals Fan-Chosen Tour Set List

Swedish metallers Soilwork have issued the following update:

"Finally, here are the results you've all been waiting for! Below you
can discover the top 10 songs as selected by YOU during our exclusive
setlist poll!!!

"We will perform these songs every night on our upcoming North
American headlining tour starting January 30, 2009:

- Stabbing The Drama
- As We Speak
- Follow The Hollow
- Nerve
- Rejection Role
- Soilworker's Song Of The Damned
- The Chainheart Machine
- Shadowchild
- Distortion Sleep
- Needlefeast

"Of course we'll play many more than just these 10 tracks... The rest
of our set list will also be largely based on your votes, including
your top picks off SWORN TO A GREAT DIVIDE. Expect a couple of good
surprises there!"

Soilwork's North American tour with Darkane, Daylight Dies (Jan. 30 -
Feb. 9), Warbringer (Feb. 10 - March 22), and Swallow The Sun will
kick off on January 30 in Rochester, New York.

Soilwork MySpace Page
http://www.myspace.com/soilwork

Soilwork Facebook Page
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Soilwork/8516817262

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #22 ***
*
-Archer Hits The Road Again In 2009!

Award Winning Santa Cruz-Based Metal Trio Embarks On The Canadian And
Western U.S. Swing Of Black Label Society's Black Label Bash In March

The Band Many Refer To As "Shred Zeppelin!" Starts The Year Opening
For Puddle Of Mudd In Anaheim January 17

Archer, the award-winning metal trio from Santa Cruz, California,
keeps the momentum of their incredible 2008 in serious overdrive with
an exciting slate of concerts to launch 2009. The band their fans love
to call "Shred Zeppelin!" starts the year bringing their guitar
driven, retro-new metal to Anaheim on January 17 as the opening act
for Puddle Of Mudd at the Hilton Pulse Room.

In March, Archer ( http://www.myspace.com/archer ) hits the road with
Black Label Society, the megapopular L.A. based heavy metal band led
by Zakk Wylde, and New York based nu metal band Dope for the opening
Western U.S. and Canadian leg of the Black Label Bash. Archer's stint
on this tour, Black Label Society's first in North America since the
fall of 2007, includes dates in San Francisco, Portland, Spokane,
Seattle, Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton.

Last year, Archer was a massive hit at Sweden Rock Fest, where they
opened for Judas Priest, Poison, Ratt, Def Leppard, Triumph, Saxon and
Whitesnake. The band also rocked numerous cities in the Midwest
throughout the year in on-going support of their powerhouse debut disc
DOOM$DAY PROFIT$ that reached the Top Ten on the FMQB Top Metal Album
Radio Chart. Many of these stops also included Epiphone Guitar
endorsee, front man and lead guitarist Dylan holding guitar clinics in
selected tour destinations, "spreadin' the shreddin'" to Archer and
Epiphone fans everywhere performing with the new Epiphone Prophecy
guitars.

DOOM$DAY PROFIT$ is a genuine tour-de-force, with rich with a
powerful, Ozzy, Sabbath, Iron Maiden and Metallica influenced vibe
that rages with that essential combination of brain-burrowing
melodies, ripping riffs, pulsing basslines, tsunami drums and grab-by-
the-throat vocals.

Archer is quickly gaining slews of cross-generational fans wherever
they play. "It's pretty eclectic," bassist Isaiah says. "When we play
bars, roadhouses, it's mostly bikers and an older crowd for sure and
they love what we play, they love the sound. There's just enough of
the old that they can latch on to it, with lots of the new for an
audience that's more our age."

"That's what we grew up loving -- all those great bands -- but it has
to evolve in some way," Dylan adds. "That's what we're trying to do.
We would love to see this genre be as big as it was before and we're
having a great time with it."

"We're reigniting the flame for a new generation of classic metal,"
Isaiah says, "paying homage, while giving it a new sound as well."

http://www.myspace.com/archer

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #23 ***
*
-U.S. Thrash Metallers Havok Sign To Candlelight

Candlelight Records confirms the signing of Denver-based thrashers
Havok. The band are currently completing their debut album titled BURN
which is expected for release early spring. The album, produced by
vocalist/guitarist David Sanchez at Dirty D Studios and mixed by Bart
McCrorey at Motaland Studios, contains twelve songs from the youthful
band featuring guitarist Shawn Chavez, drummer Ryan Bloom and bassist
Jesse de Los Santos with Sanchez.

Havok have been impressing their growing fanbase since their formation
in 2004. To date the band have performed alongside Exodus,
Destruction, Into Eternity, Cephalic Carnage, and have toured with
fellow new thrashers Bonded By Blood. Via two independent recordings,
PWN 'EM ALL and MURDER BY METAL (both quickly selling out their
pressings) the band have reached audiences far outside their regional
borders. Sanchez says of the band's signing, "This is the break we've
been working toward and now that it's finally here we're more than
ready to make the most of it. We are both psyched and humbled to be a
part of the Candlelight roster." Chavez adds, "this is the beginning
of great things to come. We know that the work is really just
beginning and that the pressure is on but pressure as you know makes
diamonds."

With final details of Burn being finalized now the band look to hit
the road shortly after album release date. Track listing as of press
time includes: "Wreckquiem," "The Root Of Evil," "Path To Nowhere,"
"Morbid Symmetry," "Identity Theft," "The Disease," "Scabs Of Trust,"
"Ivory Tower," "To Hell," "Category Of The Dead," "Melting The
Mountain," "Afterburner."

http://www.myspace.com/havok
http://www.candlelightrecordsusa.com/
http://www.myspace.com/candlelightrecordsusa
http://www.eastworldrecordings.com/
http://www.poweragerecords.com/

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #24 ***
*
-Sirenia's "The Path To Decay" Video Debuts On MySpace.com

"The Path To Decay," the new video from the Norwegian/Spanish female-
fronted gothic metal band Sirenia, can be viewed exclusively on the
band's MySpace Page.

The clip was shot in Gothenburg, Sweden with director Patric Ullaeus
(Dimmu Borgir, Lacuna Coil) of Revolver Film Company. Guitarist Morten
Veland said, "We are very satisfied with the end result and [are
excited] to share the video with all of you."

THE 13TH FLOOR track list:

1. The Path To Decay
2. Lost In Life
3. The Mind Maelstrom
4. The Seventh Summer
5. Beyond Life's Scenery
6. The Lucid Door
7. Led Astray
8. Winterborn 77
9. Sirens Of The Seven Seas

THE 13TH FLOOR, the new album from Sirenia, will be released on
January 23, 2009 (Europe) and TBA (North America) via Nuclear Blast
Records.

The album was tracked at Sound Suite Studios in France and Stargoth
Studios in Norway while the mixing and mastering sessions took place
at the Antfarm Studios in Denmark with Tue Madsen.

Sirenia recruited 26-year-old Spanish singer Ailyn (born: Pilar
Giménez García) as the replacement for Monika Pedersen, who left the
group in 2007 after only one album due to "musical differences." Ailyn
is best known as a member of the young team in the Spanish version of
"The X Factor," the biggest television talent competition in Europe.

The group says, "Expect a melodic and powerful album in the typical
Sirenia vein. The album features guest appearances by Jan Kenneth
Barkved (who also did some guest appearances on our debut, AT SIXES
AND SEVENS), French violin player Stephanie Valentin adds to the sound
along with the Sirenian choir that has been an important part of our
sound since the very beginning."

Sirenia MySpace Video Channel
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?
fuseaction=vids.channel&ChannelID=82394503

Sirenia MySpace Page
http://www.myspace.com/sirenia

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #25 ***
*
-Emperor Multimedia Update

New Changes For An Old Web Site

Upgrades have been ongoing but a major construction job is in the
works. The long term plan is to turn the RRCA Web site into a
Community of Practice for the music industry. The plans unveiled on
December 20th 2008 called for it to be rebuilt in the Web 2.0 (a.k.a.
"Wiki") design, allowing members to edit their own content, have
message forums including private e-mail, a database of artists, video
and audio searches, and much more. Previous attempts resulted in lack
luster results but company president Derek McDonald cites, "We didn't
do the full package last time, only components were changed. We were
far too conservative in the design."

Parts of the system such as a searchable database, and video access
have already been installed but these changes would upgrade those
facilities as well.

No date as to the official construction time has been made, the
proposal is still under review but highly favored.

Even City Hall Is On Sale

Times are getting hard, especially if you are into music retail and
Emperor Multimedia's Diskery on-line music shop is no exception. In an
effort to reduce its bulging inventory of independent artists it has
decided to continue its $5 CD sale indefinitely. All CDs at Diskery
are $5. Unlike other retail operations, the cost reduction is not
being passed on to the artists as they still get full sale value for
each CD sold.

"We are selling CDs so cheap you'll save enough money to buy City Hall
because it too will be on sale soon I'm sure because the whole world
is," says company founder Derek McDonald. "We need to make room for
new artists, plus in these times when consumers are simply not
interested in luxury items we'd be fools to keep a large inventory --
it's just smart business."

So, if you are looking for cheap inventory check out Diskery -- bulk
orders are welcomed.

Computers Replaced

We were down but not out, the main computer crashed several months ago
but has since been replaced -- indeed, we now have newer and more
powerful systems in their place and are in full force again.

New Artists Into Diskery

Also, lets welcome Doomzday Jezuz, Seasons Of The Wolf's latest album
ONCE IN A BLUE MOON, and Mcrackins into our system.

Dozens of biographical and review updates have been entered into the
RRCA database.

Thank you for your continued support.

http://www.diskery.com/

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #26 ***
*
-Carbon 9 To Unleash Electro Rock Fury With Their Latest, THE BULL, On
February 24th

Freshly signed to WorldSound Music, it shouldn't be long before Los
Angeles' best-kept secret, Carbon 9, is launched upon an unsuspecting
world -- especially after hearing their latest release, THE BULL,
mixed by Frank Gryner (Rob Zombie, Perfect Circle, Tommy Lee, etc.).
THE BULL manages to balance electro rock sounds with strong pop
melodies and anthemic choruses -- resulting in a sound that sounds
custom-made for crossover success.

Comprised of members Stacey Quinealty (vocals and sequencing), Danny
Cistone (backing vocals), Darwin DeVitis (guitars and vocals), Omar D.
Brancato (bass and vocals), and Matty Milani (drums), Carbon 9 has
already made numerous impressive inroads into the music industry,
including their music appearing on XM Radio and commercials. Also, the
band has received rave reviews from L.A. Alive ("I have seen the
future of rock, and it is Carbon 9"), Music Connection ("The music is
so overwhelming no one is spared"), and KNAC.com ("Carbon 9 craft
memorable songs while still keeping the head-throbbing beats"), and
has headlined such renowned clubs as the Whisky A-Go-Go, the Viper
Room, the Roxy, and the Troubadour, among others. But it's the numbers
that speak loudest -- the group has sold over 5,000 copies of their
earlier releases, while their MySpace page has over 14,000 friends
signed up.

If you're still unsure, just check out the handful of songs from THE
BULL that are currently posted on Carbon 9's label page for the proof
-- including such originals as "My Friend" (a song that according to
Stacey is "Directly about that one person that constantly stabs you in
the back yet we continue to keep them close within the circle"),
"Somebody Like Me" (which is "A very egocentric song that states the
fact that we need a significant other but usually demand someone to
follow our ways and do as we do"), and the title track ("It is about
the strength in belief of the self"), as well as a rockin' version of
the Danzig classic, "Mother" ("This was our first cover song to ever
record and we chose it very carefully"). While they've often been
noted as the "hardest working band in L.A.," with the arrival of THE
BULL, perhaps a more fitting description of Carbon 9 is the "hardest
rocking band in L.A."

Track listing for THE BULL:

1. What Is It We're Made Of
2. Crawling Over Me
3. My Friend
4. Somebody Like Me
5. The Bull
6. Mother
7. Butterflies In My Head
8. For You
9. The Life
10. Mary Mannequin
11. I'm Not Broken
12. Loving You
13. I'm On My Own
14. Lonely In Love
15. Tongues

For more information, go to:

http://www.worldsound.com/carbon9/
[includes stream of entire album]

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #27 ***
*
-Of The Archaengel Signs With Sleaszy Rider Records

Brazilian dark metallers Of The Archaengel recently signed with the
greek label Sleaszy Rider Records. The band's debut album will be
released worldwide and with distribution by Sony Music in some
countries like Switzerland and Austria. Sleaszy Rider is considered
the "number one" underground label in Greece, featuring bands like
Ancient, Satarial, Imagika, On Thorns I Lay, and others on its cast.

Tolis G. Palantzas, manager of Sleaszy Rider, comments: "One of the
most exciting things in the music business is to dicover some great,
but unknown bands, it's like finding some hidden jewels... And
listening for first time to this -- unknown for me till then -- band
Of The Archaengel, it was a huge surprise. These Brasilian dark
metallers are a great band. They can mix so nice and smart many metal
genres with gothic elements and compose some really great atmopsheres!
The band's vision to make some steps forward to the metal scene, the
great communication with us and their whole attitude, did it easier
for us, to sign them in our label.

"Having a really good band like Of The Archaengel in our roster makes
our work more exciting and I hope that all the metal fans around the
world will be at least so much enthousiastic as we are!

"After Sepultura and Angra, the next best band from Brazil is sure Of
The Archaengel!"

Alex Rodrigues, vocalist and former member adds: "Because to the
difficult situation of the musical market due to piracy and illegal
downloads I confess that we were worried about the destiny of our
album, even with the great response which we received from press in
Brazil and other countries which constantly said that we had
uniqueness and quality enough to build a promising career. So,
receiving the oportunity to sign this deal even with all these
problems, release it with good conditions and promotion project makes
this victory even bigger for us and we couldn't more satisfied. We are
in a good moment."

When waiting for the album's release, Of The Archaengel posted their
whole promo CD THE DANTE'S CHILDREN EXTRAVAGANCE: CHAPTER ALPHA which
can be downloaded at http://www.myspace.com/ofthearchaengel .

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

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #28 ***
*
-Wolves In The Throne Room Announce New EP, New Album, Tour Dates

In February Southern Lord will proudly release the vinyl only version
of the new Wolves In The Throne Room EP entitled MALEVOLENT GRAIN,
featuring two brand new tracks from the Pacific Northwest organic
black metallers. Conspiracy Records will offer a limited edition
picture disc of the 12" for Europe, while Southern Lord will release a
black 180-gram version worldwide. Additionally the band will press a
limited CD version for tour purposes only. The EP features the band's
newly designed logo crafted by renowned artist Christophe Szpajdel,
designer of black metal band logos for Kult Ov Azazel, Emperor,
Moonspell and other international acts.

The third WITTR full-length BLACK CASCADE will follow, to be released
on March 31st on Southern Lord Records. More info will follow soon on
this wholly organic black-drone masterwork. Both the EP and the full-
length were recorded to 2-inch tape by Randall Dunn and Mell Dettmer
in Seattle this Winter. The new recordings are the first to feature
their new guitar player Will Lindsay (Middian) who had previously
served as the band's touring bass player, in addition to longtime
members, brothers Nathan and Aaron Weaver.

The band will tour Europe beginning in late January, along with three
select U.S. dates. More extensive touring through 2009 is also
imminent. In addition to the new EP, other new merch for this tour
includes a LIVE AT ROADBURN 2008 12" record, which also includes a DVD
and is being released by Burning World Records.

1/16/2009 The Underground Events Center (benefit for victims of the
Green Scare) - Seattle, WA
1/17/2009 The Big Room - Olympia, WA w/ Mt. Eerie
1/22/2009 Vera Groningen (Net)
1/23/2009 Jaz Rostock (Ger)
1/24/2009 Loppen Copenhagen (Den)
1/25/2009 Cassiopeia Berlin (Ger)
1/27/2009 Dna Brussels (Bel)
1/28/2009 Underworld London (UK)
1/29/2009 The Croft Bristol (UK)
1/30/2009 Busk Birmingham (UK)
2/02/2009 Engine Rooms Brighton (UK)
2/03/2009 Boule Noir Paris (Fra)
2/04/2009 Heretic Club Bordeaux (Fra)
2/05/2009 El Balcon De La Lola Bilbao (Spa)
2/06/2009 Sala Whippoorwill Oviedo (Spa)
2/07/2009 Porto-rio Porto (Por)
2/08/2009 Ritmo Y Compas Madrid (Spa)
2/11/2009 Magnolia Milan (Ita)
2/12/2009 Circolo Degli Artisti Rome (Ita)
2/13/2009 Cage Club Livorno (Ita)
2/15/2009 Kunstverein Nurnberg (Ger)
2/16/2009 Klub 007 Prague (Cze)
2/17/2009 Arena Vienna (Aus)
2/18/2009 Beatpol Dresden (Ger)
2/19/2009 Scheldapen Antwerp (Bel)
2/20/2009 W2 Den Bosch (Net)
2/21/2009 Festung Bitterfeld (Ger)
2/28/2009 Masquerade @ Atlanta Metal Festival - Atlanta, GA

http://www.wittr.com/
http://www.myspace.com/wolvesinthethroneroom
http://www.southernlord.com/
http://blog.southernlord.com
http://www.myspace.com/southernlordrecordings

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #29 ***
*
-Viking Skull Wrap Up East Coast Tour, Complete Video

British rockers and sometime troublemakers Viking Skull returned to
England earlier this week after a successful post-Christmas showcase
tour alongside Clutch. The sold out performances put the band on U.S.
soil for their first major shows with seasonably happy audiences
taking to the band's gritty, hard rocking, drinking tunes. Their 30-
minute set included material from their recently released third album
DOOM GLOOM HEARTACHE & WHISKEY.

"What a fantastic opportunity it was to play with Clutch on their home
turf," says bassist Waldie. "The crowds were very cool and welcoming.
We made a lot of new friends. Our new material went down great and
there were even people singing along to the old stuff which was nice!
There were a lot of parties but don't worry -- no hairy babies!"

Viking Skull concluded the U.S. trek with two headline shows just
after New Year's celebrations. The Note in West Chester, Pennsylvania
served as the final stop and the location for the band's video shoot
for album track "Hair Of The Dog." The footage is currently being
edited by "Jackass" creator/mastermind Bam Margera and is expected to
be completed early February.

Released November 25, DOOM GLOOM HEARTACHE & WHISKEY is the band's
first album with proper U.S. distribution and promotion. The album is
set to impact college and commercial specialty radio on January 19.
Over 300 stations across the country are planned to receive the disc
that Kerrang! recently called "a genuinely fantastic rock 'n roll
album." Getting an early jump on the impact, weekly radio tip sheet
FMQB interviewed the band in late December. During the interview
drummer Jess Margera said, "This record is the epitome of every good
rock band smashed into one."

As the lone American in the band, Margera remembers his initial
introduction to the 'Skull. "I think five years ago was the first time
I heard Viking Skull get played on the jukebox at the Crobar in
London. The whole place went insane. It was kind of like when I was a
kid hearing BACK IN BLACK for the first time. I bought everyone there
a shot of Makers mark and a beer."

With limited support and resources, Viking Skull have single-handedly
created their own early opportunities. Independently recording their
first release for a whopping $500, their 2003 mini-album titled
CHAPTER ONE remains the only album to score 11 out of 10 in England's
Metal Hammer. The band's full-length debut, BORN IN HELL, was released
in 2005. While finding limited stateside exposure in Europe the band
continued to build on a growing fanbase and profile. Tours with Clutch
and cKy would see them through the year setting up the recording of
their second album. CHAPTER TWO would be released in early 2007 and
featured guest appearances from members of Fireball Ministry. It would
also feature the first contributions from Margera (also a member of
cKy and stoner super-group The Company Band).

Already looking forward to their return to the states in the near
future, vocalist Roddy Stone shares, "Ice cold beer actually exists
when you tour the U.S. unlike the lukewarm beer you get off promoters
in the U.K. So bring it on..."

Viking Skull is vocalist/founder Roddy Stone, bassist Waldie,
guitarist Dom and drummer Jess Margera. DOOM GLOOM HEARTACHE & WHISKEY
is available in stores now via Powerage/Candlelight Records.

http://www.myspace.com/vikingskull
http://www.candlelightrecordsusa.com/
http://www.myspace.com/candlelightrecordsusa
http://www.eastworldrecordings.com/
http://www.poweragerecords.com/

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #30 ***
*
-Abigail Williams Return To The Road In February

Abigail Williams have confirmed a string of headline dates beginning
January 30 as they continue to tour in support of their recently
released full-length debut, IN THE SHADOW OF A THOUSAND SUNS. Produced
by James Murphy and featuring contributions from Trym Torson (Emperor,
Zyklon), the album topped the CMJ charts the week ending December 5.
MTV2/"Headbanger's Ball" world premiered the sextet's video for the
song "Into The Ashes" online December 4 with the broadcast premiere on
December 6.

"Response to our album from our fans has been awesome and we are very
grateful for the support our fans have given us on tour. We are stoked
on Trym's drumming on the album and James Murphy's mix really brought
the whole project to life. We are really looking forward to getting
back on the road in support of the new record."

A year-long recording project that utilized studios in the U.S. and
abroad, IN THE SHADOW OF A THOUSAND SUNS features ten songs showcasing
the young band's dynamic songwriting. Metal Maniacs calls the album,
"an unholy alliance between the beauty of the keyboards and the beast
of speed. There's an impressive level of musicianship that crackles
with a blazing metal heart." Orange County-based Mean Street Magazine
asserts, "IN THE SHADOW OF A THOUSAND SUNS is an epic feast of shrill,
feverish riffs, luxurious keyboards and caterwauling vocals. It
recalls Emperor's landmark IN THE NIGHTSIDE ECLIPSE but with more
sheer muscle." The album sold over 1,200 units according to Nielsen
Soundscan its first week of release and is a consistent weekly seller
with over 20,000 units now shipped globally.

Abigail Williams have been a focus of attention for both fan and
critics since their formation several years back. Popular news portal
Blabbermouth, noted of the band's 2007 EP, "LEGEND lays a firm
foundation for greatness to come." The band have had to endure
numerous lineup changes and public scrutiny fighting back from a near
collapse in late 2007. Vocalist/founder Sorceron says of the band's
shaky beginnings, "things started out rough finding a solid lineup for
the band but our current lineup is much stronger then what we started
out with. This is not the same band that people witnessed on tour from
May 2007. This is something much more focused and we are determined to
conquer any obstacles we may face. It's been a long, bumpy road full
of unexpected trials and tribulations but we are in it for the long
haul."

Currently featuring guitarists Mike Wilson and Bjornthor, keyboardist
Ellyllon, bassist Plaguehammer, and drummer Samus with Sorceron,
Abigail Williams have toured the U.S. and Europe several times
including their most recent tour with The Faceless completed in
November. The band were hand-picked to open for Emperor at their
sold-out performance in Los Angeles (House Of Blues) in July of 2006.
IN THE SHADOW OF A THOUSAND SUNS is available in stores now via
Candlelight Records.

Abigail Williams, with Rose Funeral, Burning The Masses, The Breathing
Process in support:

1/30/2009 Mac's Bar - Lansing, MI
1/31/2009 The Attic - Dayton, OH
2/01/2009 The Jukebox - Rochester, NY
2/02/2009 The Haunt - Yonkers, NY
2/03/2009 Crocodile Rock - Allentown, PA
2/04/2009 Jaxx - W. Springfield, VA
2/05/2009 Peppermint Club - Virginia Beach, VA
2/06/2009 Brewery - Raleigh, NC
2/07/2009 Sector 7G - Augusta, GA
2/08/2009 Fuel Coffehouse - Jacksonville, FL
2/09/2009 Orpheum - Tampa, FL
2/12/2009 Java Jazz - Houston, TX
2/13/2009 White Rabbit - San Antonio, TX
2/14/2009 Rose Park Activity Bldg - Abilene, TX
2/15/2009 Plano Centre - Plano, TX
2/16/2009 Lonestar Event Center - Lubbock, TX
2/17/2009 Chic's - El Pazo, TX
2/19/2009 Karma - Victorville, CA

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

*
*** NEWS/RUMORS ***
*
-Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles magazine's Brave Picks for 2008 are
published in issue #113, which is available now. The Top 10:

1. Metallica - DEATH MAGNETIC
2. Testament - THE FORMATION OF DAMNATION
3. Opeth - WATERSHED
4. Enslaved - VERTEBRAE
5. AC/DC - BLACK ICE
6. Dismember - s/t
7. Motorhead - MOTORIZER
8) Warrel Dane - PRAISES TO THE WAR MACHINE
9) Destruction - D.E.V.O.L.U.T.I.O.N.
10) Amon Amarth - TWILIGHT OF THE THUNDER GOD

Other highlights in the Top 66 include Children Of Bodom's BLOODDRUNK
(#11), Whitesnake's GOOD TO BE BAD (#14), In Flames' A SENSE OF
PURPOSE (#17), Iced Earth's THE CRUCIBLE OF MAN (#21), Evergrey's TORN
(#26), Uriah Heep's WAKE THE SLEEPER (#29), Journey's REVELATION
(#33), King's X's XV (#37), Airbourne's RUNNIN' WILD (#40), Death
Angel's KILLING SEASON (#41), Motley Crue's SAINTS OF LOS ANGELES
(#45), Buckcherry's BLACK BUTTERFLY (#51), Judas Priest's NOSTRADAMUS
(#58), Jorn's LONELY ARE THE BRAVE (#61), Falconer's AMONG BEGGARS AND
THIEVES (#63), Brainstorm's DOWNBURST (#64), and Alestorm's CAPTAIN
MORGAN'S REVENGE (#65). See http://www.BraveWords.com/ for more.

-Buckethead (Guns N' Roses, solo) has three songs celebrating pro
basketball player LeBron James' December 30 birthday available for
download from his site, at
http://www.bucketheadland.com/home_for_hemorrage.html . The tracks are
called "LeBron," "LeBron's Hammer," and "King James."

-Death Angel's KILLING SEASON has been released as "a super limited
edition double gatefold LP pressed on clear vinyl" this week. Track
list: Side A - "Lord Of Hate," "Sonic Beatdown," "Dethroned." Side B -
"Carnival Justic," "Buried Alive," "Soulless." Side C - "The Noose,"
"When Worlds Collide," "God Vs. God." Side D - "Steal The Crown,"
"Resurrection Machine." See http://www.deathangel.com/ and
http://www.myspace.com/deathangel for more.

-Dimension Zero has signed with Candlelight USA to release its fourth
album, HE WHO SHALL NOT BLEED. The band was formed in 1996 as a side
project for In Flames members Jesper Stromblad and Glenn Ljungstrom.
The new 11-song disc reportedly is "less thrasier then their previous
albums [but] it is another metal gem from this regarded and diverse
band." Annihilator's Jeff Waters contributes additional guitar parts.
See http://www.dimensionzero.se/ for more.

-A double gatefold LP version of Exodus' THE ATROCITY EXHIBITION:
EXHIBIT A, featuring the uncensored artwork, is out this week. Track
list: Side A - "Call To Arms," "Riot Act," "Funeral Hymn," "Children
Of A Worthless God." Side B - "As It Was, As It Soon Shall Be," "The
Atrcocity Exhibition." Side C - "Iconoclasm," "The Garden Of Bleeded."
Side D - "Bedlam 1-2-3." See http://www.exodusattack.com/ and
http://www.myspace.com/exodus for more.

-Farflung has been added to the lineup for Walter's Roadburn Festival
(at The Batcave) in Tilburg, The Netherlands, on April 23. More dates
for Holland, Germany, and other countries will be announced soon. See
http://www.roadburn.com/ for more on the festival, and
http://www.farflung.org/ , http://www.myspace.com/farflung ,
http://www.meteorcity.com/ , and
http://www.myspace.com/aplaceforstonerrock for more on Farflung.

-Queensryche's Geoff Tate turned 50 this week. The band's new album
AMERICAN SOLDIER is due in April on Rhino. Upcoming tour dates:

4/16 & 4/17 - Snoqualmie, Seattle, WA
4/18 - Roseland Theater, Portland, OR
4/19 - Senator Theater, Chico, CA
4/22 - House Of Blues, Anaheim, CA
4/23 - House Of Blues, San Diego, CA
4/24 - House Of Blues, Los Angeles, CA
4/25 - House Of Blues, Las Vegas, NV
4/26 - The Depot, Salt Lake City, UT
4/28 - Paramount, Denver, CO
4/29 - Voodoo Lounge, Kansas City, MO
4/30 & 5/1 - Potawatomi, Milwaukee, WI
5/3 - Northern Lights, Walker, MN
5/5 - Intersection, Grand Rapids, MI
5/6 - House Of Blues, Cleveland, OH
5/7 & 5/8 - House Of Blues, Chicago, IL
5/10 - Palace Theater, Pittsburgh, PA
5/12 - Turning Stone, Verona, NY
5/13 - Palace Theatre, Stamford, CT
5/14 - Starland Ballroom, Sayreville, NJ
5/15 - Nokia Theater, New York, NY
5/16 - Showboat, Atlantic City, NJ
5/17 - House Of Blues, Myrtle Beach, SC
5/19 - Ruth Eckerd, Tampa, FL
5/20 - House Of Blues, Lake Buena Vista, FL
5/21 - House Of Blues, New Orleans, LA
5/22 - House Of Blues, Houston, TX
5/23 - Hemisfair Park, San Antonio, TX
5/24 - House Of Blues, Dallas, TX

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

-A new version of Rainbow features Ritchie Blackmore's son Jurgen "JR"
Blackmore on guitar, Joe Lynn Turner on vocals, Tony Carey on
keyboards, Greg Smith on bass, and Bobby Rondinelli on drums.

-The limited edition version of Saxon's newie INTO THE LABYRINTH comes
with a bonus 70-minute DVD featuring a tour documentary and the "Live
To Rock" video (with Biff Byford appearing as King Arthur). See
http://www.saxon747.com/ and http://www.youtube.com/planetsaxon for
more.

-John Taglieri's new EP, EVERYTHING WE ARE, has been doing well in the
"best of 2008" lists: #4 in Bill's Music Forum's Top 5 EPs Of 2008,
#11 in Inner Ear Media's Top 15 Albums Of 2008, and #23 in Wildy World
Top 40 CDs Of 2008. Upcoming shows:

1/16 - The Hard Rock Cafe, Miami, FL (The Rock Boat Pre-Party)
1/17 - 1/25 - The Rock Boat ( http://www.therockboat.com/ )
1/30 - The National Underground, New York, NY (full band)

See http://johntaglieri.wordpress.com and
http://www.reverbnation.com/johntaglieri for more.

-Theory Of A Deadman's new video for "Hate My Life" is available at
http://new.music.yahoo.com/videos/--205793538 .

-A special 90-minute episode of "True Hollywood Story" entitled "Rock
Wives" premieres Friday, January 16 on E!. It "takes you backstage for
a look at the intimate lives of rock star royalty," featuring women
close to Guns N' Roses, Poison, Anthrax, Pantera, Sevendust, and
Foreigner.

-Upcoming Warrant shows:

1/31 - Lucky Star Casino, Clinton, OK
2/20 - David S. Palmer Arena, Danville, IL
2/28 - Harley Davidson, Orlando, FL

See http://www.warrantweb.net/ for more.

-Witchking's video for "Metal Grail" is available now at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEGFPYymWtY . The clip was directed by
Marcin Halerz from Psychorape Art. The band announced it will open for
Sweden's Sabaton on April 5 at Wroclaws WZ club in Poland. See
http://www.witchking.pl/ and http://www.myspace.com/witchkingband for
more.

Thanks to Mikey@..., Anne Leighton, Dave Brenner, and
Mateusz Gajdzik for help gathering some of this information.

*
*** REVIEWS ***
*
JASON BECKER - COLLECTION (A-/B+) Shrapnel Records, 2008
13 tracks, RT: 1:13:44, multimedia section
[ http://www.jasonbecker.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/jasonbecker ]
[ http://www.shrapnelrecords.com/ ]
MARTY FRIEDMAN - EXHIBIT "A" - LIVE IN EUROPE (A-/B+) Mascot Records
U.S.A., 2008
16 tracks, RT: 1:01:20
[ http://www.martyfriedman.com/ ]
[ http://www.mascotrecords.com/ ]
[ http://www.mascotrecordsusa.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/mascot ]
Twenty-two years ago Jason Becker and Marty Friedman released the
classic shred statement SPEED METAL SYMPHONY, raising the bar for
guitarists everywhere with their unique blend of unusual techniques
and mind-numbing virtuosity; both of these esteemed players have
recently released albums so I thought it fitting to review them
together. Jason Becker's heartbreaking story is by now likely familiar
to just about anyone with even a casual interest in the shred guitar
movement popularized in the '80s -- Jason cruelly stricken with ALS
just as his career was getting off the ground, to this day paralyzed
by the disease but amazingly still composing and creating music with
the help of family and friends. COLLECTION is an incomplete but fine
example of Jason's superior talents, with incredible tracks such as
"Images" from Cacophony's GO OFF album, this one contrasting Jason's
and Marty's styles nicely, along with the hauntingly beautiful "Opus
Pocus," emotionally intense "Altitudes," and ultra-cool cover of Bob
Dylan's "Meet Me In The Morning." Three new tracks and a tasty
selection of bonus material round out COLLECTION, making it a treat
for longtime fans as well as newcomers to Jason's magic. Marty
Friedman's disc EXHIBIT "A" - LIVE IN EUROPE parallels Jason's in that
it features a sampling of the former Megadeth guitarist's most potent
compositions, albeit in a live setting. Following a brief intro, Marty
launches into the hyperkinetic "Elixir," followed by scorchers like
"It's The Unreal Thing," Stigmata Addiction," and "Paradise Express."
The focus is on Marty's last two solo albums but we do get treated to
several choice cuts from Marty's fantastic 1988 solo outing DRAGON'S
KISS, the most satisfying being "Thunder March." It's a fine live
document, with all the expected guitar heroics, but it would have been
nice if a few cuts from Cacophony and Megadeth had been included, as
Marty had ample assistance by band mates Ron Jarzombek, Chris Catero
and Jeremy Colson. Despite the exclusions, however, ultimately with
these releases you have many examples of great musicianship from two
of the best in the business to enjoy, making both well worth
obtaining.
- Neal Woodall (MysticX9@...)

*
*** OUT ***
*