Detritus
Issue #498
Week of April 27, 2009
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*
*** CAST OF CHARACTERS ***
*
Patrick Brower, Editor
patrickbrower@...
Sean P. Gahgan, Editor
spgahgan@...
http://www.lakeoffire.net/
http://www.myspace.com/visionlakeoffire
Tim Wadzinski, Owner
tsw512@...
Steve Shumake, Co-owner
vongoober@...
http://www.myspace.com/kdsteve
*
*** LET IT BE KNOWN ***
*
-Wow, where did April go? It seems like St. Patrick's Day was just two
weeks ago... - Tim
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #1 ***
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-Calling On The Kiss Army!
[Note: This is from the Kiss Army e-mail list. - Tim]
New Kiss Book In The Works!
Kiss Fanzine Phenomenon Needs Your Help!
Attention Kiss Army!
Ken Sharp is helping put together an official Kiss book unlike any
you've ever seen. This one will chronicle the history of the Kiss
fanzine phenomenon. Our intention is to honor all of your fanzine
editors, your fanzines and of course all the Kiss fans who read and
enjoyed them.
What we need from you...
If you did a Kiss fanzine, please send us the name of the fanzine, how
many issues/years of service. Also, send us a page bio about yourself,
how you became a Kiss fan, why you decided to put together a Kiss
fanzine, and share a most memorable Kiss experience. And please feel
free to send us a photo of yourself that we can possibly use as well.
Please email your Kiss fanzine info and text submissions to:
sharpk@...
Photos:
If you send a photo, please be sure to provide complete information on
the back with your name, address, phone # and name of your Kiss
fanzine.
You can also send a disc with a scanned image; again, please provide
your name, address, phone # and name of Kiss fanzine. Also, be sure to
follow the scan specs listed below:
300 DPI
minimum size: 5" x 6"
In addition, we're looking for Kiss fanzines from the '70s. If you ran
your own Kiss fanzine during that time or have copies of '70s Kiss
fanzines, we need your help and would greatly appreciate being sent
copies as we'd like to use in the book.
Send materials (fanzines/photos) to:
Ken Sharp
16946 Burbank Blvd # 211
Encino, CA 91316
USA
By submitting photographs and materials (the "Materials") you are not
relinquishing any ownership rights that you may have in the Materials
or in the underlying intellectual property rights in the Materials.
However, by submitting the Materials, you are granting to Kiss Catalog
Ltd. ("Kiss") the right to use the Materials for any purpose in
connection with the Kiss Fanzine book project (the "Book"). Kiss will
have the right to use, publish, alter, or modify the Materials in its
sole discretion and does not guarantee that it will use them in the
Book. Submitted Materials will not be returned to you and you will not
receive any compensation except for inclusion in credits and a
statement of appreciation to contributors whose materials are used in
the Book. By submitting the Materials, you are representing that you
own the Materials and have the legal right to permit Kiss to use them
in the Book.
http://www.kissonline.com/
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #2 ***
*
-Rob Halford Launches New Apparel Company
The world of Rock and Roll has one Metal God -- Rob Halford. The
multi-Gold and Platinum Producer, Songwriter, Vocalist has graced the
world's largest stages for decades leading his revolutionary solo
acts: Halford, Fight and the legendary Judas Priest.
Developing new standards for the Rock and Metal genres with blazing
vocals, dynamic themes, adorned head-to-toe in glass, leather and
steel -- The Metal God is universally recognized as an artist whom
continually inspires and drives today's global Hard Rock industry.
With an eye on defining consumer-fashions for today's Rock and Roll
lifestyles, Metal God Entertainment and Rob Halford are pleased to
debut a new garment entity: Metal God Apparel.
With Pre-sale beginning today and shipments commencing June 15, 2009
Metal God Apparel will debut dozens of new, edgy designs this year for
youth, teens, men and women. Metal God Apparel re-produced on custom-
dyed, cotton tees integrating the newest fashion technology resulting
in an extremely attractive, lightweight, soft-to-touch, active-wear
for today's global music audiences.
Please visit
http://www.MetalGodApparel.com/ for more details.
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #3 ***
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-Magic Circle Music Update
The Asgard Saga Premieres At Magic Circle Festival III
The Asgard Saga Web Site Begins Now!
The world premiere of the fantasy collaboration between Manowar and
Wolfgang Hohlbein has been announced. The Asgard Saga will begin at
Magic Circle Festival III, scheduled to take place at the Loreley on
the Rhine River in Germany on July 18, 2009. Headlining the festival,
Manowar will perform material from the concept album currently in the
works. It is based on Hohlbein's tales of one of the most iconic
characters in Norse mythology, Thor, the God of Thunder. Hohlbein will
debut the captivating fantasy adventure that is promised to be full of
action, drama, romance, passion and conflict. It is a modern spin on
the classic tale interpreted via the media of our time: the Internet,
interactive Web communities, books, music, video games and beyond. The
first phase of this concept is set to launch worldwide today!
http://www.asgard-saga.com/ begins NOW!!
"During the creative process, the band and I soon realised the full
potential of this enterprise," Wolfgang Hohlbein said. "It was almost
like the characters took over and showed us the way!" he added, "Norse
mythology is so rich with characters and stories that we decided to
create a whole universe." Manowar bassist, Joey DeMaio explained, "We
felt an online platform would be the perfect tool to complement our
works, offering unlimited space to tell further stories. That is where
ideas really started to fly! We decided that the fans should become
part of the creative team! So we developed an interactive website
where they can contribute on many levels. At
http://www.asgard-saga.com/ anyone can participate in every phase of
the project from submitting anything from stories to songs. Fans and
artists can create a fantasy adventure like none before!"
The world premiere of The Asgard Saga can only be witnessed at Magic
Circle Festival III. A full lineup of bands is also scheduled to
perform. Multiple activities on the eve of the festival will offer
fans the opportunity to learn more about The Asgard Saga -- a project
of vast dimensions!
Tickets are available at
http://www.magiccirclefestival.com/ ,
http://www.eventim.com/ ,
http://www.nuclearblast.de/ ,
http://www.ticketagenten.de/ .
For further info on Magic Circle Festival III and The Asgard Saga, log
onto
http://www.manowar.com/ ,
http://www.asgard-saga.com/ or contact
promotion@... /
redaktion@... .
Magic Circle Festival III Premieres On YouTube!
The metal and fantasy communities are buzzing about Manowar, Wolfgang
Hohlbein, Magic Circle Festival III and The Asgard Saga! Now that the
news has spread to our "family" of true metal warriors, we want the
world to know what they have been missing! Check out the Magic Circle
Festival III promo movie trailer on YouTube at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DrTYJxjy67I . Then YOU TOO, will know
what the buzz is about!
In addition, the movie trailer is being added to OFFICIAL Web sites
across metal and fantasy cyberspace, including:
http://www.hohlbein.net/ ,
http://www.hohlbein-books.com/ ,
http://www.literra.info/ ,
http://www.news4press.com/ to name just a
few of the interesting and informative sites YOU should be checking
out! So, do your homework so YOU TOO can relate to the latest and
greatest addition to YouTube!
For details on the festival and the saga, visit OFFICIAL Manowar Web
sites:
http://www.manowar.com/ ,
http://www.magiccirclefestival.com/ ,
http://www.magiccirclemusic.com/ ,
http://www.asgard-saga.com/ .
New Items Added To The Kingdom Of Steel Online Store
The Kingdom Of Steel Online Store is the best place for you to
purchase official merchandise for all Magic Circle Music artists. The
store has just added a number of new items, so don't miss out on:
- Manowar Kaliakra Rock Fest 2008 T-shirts (L, XL, XXL)
- DSG HellBorn T-Shirts (M, L, XL)
- HolyHell Ladies Angel Wings T-Shirts (S, M, L)
- HolyHell Band photo T-Shirts (S, M, L, XL)
- Manowar Warriors Of The World sticker (6" x 3" or 15.5 cm x 8 cm)
These new items are available in limited quantities, so hurry! To buy,
visit
http://store.magiccirclemusic.com/
More new items coming very soon!
Links:
Manowar
http://www.manowar.com/
The Asgard Saga
http://www.asgard-saga.com/
Magic Circle Festival
http://www.magiccirclefestival.com/
Magic Circle Music
http://www.magiccirclemusic.com/
The Kingdom Of Steel Online Store
http://store.magiccirclemusic.com/
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #4 ***
*
-New UFO Album Available; Fall 2009 U.S. Tour Announced
In constructing this new album, legendary rock icons UFO composed more
than 35 new tracks in advance of hitting the studio, 13 of which were
short-listed and produced at the studio, and 10 of them making the
final cut. The final product; the band's new album, THE VISITOR.
The current UFO lineup continues to consist of the three original
members, Phil Mogg (vocals), Paul Raymond (guitar, keyboards), and
Andy Parker (drums), as well as American world-class guitarist Vinnie
Moore. Bass legend and original member Pete Way is currently suffering
from a liver disease and was unfortunately not available for the
studio production.
"All those who have been into UFO for a long time will find all our
characteristic trademarks on THE VISITOR, and anybody new to the band
will be impressed by our enthusiasm and dynamism," front man Phil Mogg
enthuses on the subject of the new songs. THE VISITOR sees the band
benefiting especially from their collaboration with Vinnie Moore, who
joined UFO in autumn 2003 and has made an excellent impression on the
albums YOU ARE HERE (2004) and THE MONKEY PUZZLE (2006), and on the
band's tours. Mogg continues, "Without running down previous UFO
lineups, it's been a long time since we had a team as strong as this
one. Vinnie contributes his youthful energy and amazing guitar
technique, and in Andy's return we've seen the reappearance of a
musician who has always been very important to the band's original
sound."
UFO's THE VISITOR is in stores June 2nd, 2009. Confirmed U.S. tour
dates are below, with more TBA in the coming weeks.
10/02/2009 Jaxx - Springfield, VA
10/03/2009 Tangiers - Akron, OH
10/07/2009 The Rex - Pittsburgh, PA
10/08/2009 The Chance - Poughkeepsie, NY
10/09/2009 Starland Ballroom - Sayreville, NJ
10/10/2009 B.B. King's - New York, NY
10/15/2009 Ameristar Casino - St. Charles, MO
10/16/2009 House Of Blues - Chicago, IL
10/17/2009 Medina Ballroom - Hamel, MN
10/21/2009 The Catalyst - Santa Cruz, CA
10/22/2009 The Brixton - Redondo Beach, CA
10/23/2009 The Coach House - San Juan Capistrano, CA
10/24/2009 Boulder Station Casino - Las Vegas, NV
10/25/2009 Majestic Ventura Theater - Ventura, CA
10/27/2009 Key Club - West Hollywood, CA
10/28/2009 The Fat Cat - Modesto, CA
10/29/2009 Aladdin Theatre - Portland, OR
10/30/2009 Neumos - Seattle, WA
11/01/2009 The Independent - San Francisco, CA
http://www.ufo-music.info/
http://www.myspace.com/spvusa
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #5 ***
*
-Warrant Update
[Note: This is from the band's e-newsletter. - Tim]
Warrant Tour Dates
May 16 - Comanche Nation Casino - Lawton, OK
May 23 - Soldiers Memorial Park - St. Louis, MO
July 10 - Rocklahoma - Pryor, OK
July 22 - Inner City Harbor Amphitheater - Syracuse, NY
Aug 14 - Galaxy Concert Theater - Santa Ana, CA
Aug 15 - Storm Stadium - Lake Elsinore, CA
Aug 22 - Rock Gone Wild - Algona, IA
Aug 29 - DuQuion State Fair - DuQuion, IL
Oct 03 - Mohegan Sun Casino - Uncasville, CT
Oct 09 - Brixton South Bay - Redondo Beach, CA
Oct 10 - The Canyon Club - Agoura Hills, CA
Steven Sweet Road Report: 7 Clans Paradise Casino, Red Rock, OK
"The date? I don't remember and really don't feel like retracing my
mental steps at this point to write it down here. Because after all,
in the grand scheme of things does it really matter what number the
calendar read when the happenings of this report took place -- or is
it enough to just sit back, relax (perhaps with your favorite hot tea,
ice cream... jerky? my favorite's 'Bridgeford Farms' Smoked Squirrel,
'case you're wondering) and read on in sublime leisure.
"Oh yes, welcome back for another fresh-steamed literary platter of
random imaginings from my personal recollective experiences of Rock N
Roll travelogging with Warrant. This time the big jet bird took us to
Oklahoma (... again) to a wonderfully rain-soaked suburb of Oklahoma
City, called Red Rock, where, once again, they've erected a casino
seemingly in the middle of this great Country of ours (ha, some of you
might have thought I was going to say 'nowhere' as in the middle
of...). (Strange, that last sentence was randomly placed in the middle
of parenthesis brackets... as was this one!?) NO, I would never refer
to any locale in all of these United States as the middle of nowhere
because that would be like proclaiming that all of us in the good ole
U. S. of (freakin') A actually live IN 'Nowhere.' As a proud native
United States-ian, (NOT Native American) I will tell you that the
Natives are ALWAYS restless and this evening I am about to tell you of
was no exception. Now let me set the mood for you, after a 1 plus
something hour drive from our home-base in Oklahoma City, we arrive at
the '7 Clans Paradise Casino' (Not to be confused with the 7 CLAMS
Paradise Casino on the Atlantic City Boardwalk, next to but enormously
overshadowed by, Trumps). The casino is nothing to sneeze at unless of
course, you happen to be suffering from a nasty head cold and facing
in the general direction of the casino, then there's just not a whole
lot else that you can do. Full of the usual smoking, gambling,
drinking, buffet-eating (tonight was 'Sea food' buffet night -- just
like '7 Clams,' come to think of it), ATM-bleeding, risk-taking,
casino-thrill-seekers (and a whole slew of other un-mentional
hyphenates) -- but with one added twist... they were drawn out into
the elements by a common primal need to hear some good old fashioned,
melodic rock. Tonight's bill consisted of Great White (Unfortunately
it WASN'T Shark Week on the Discovery Channel, but damned if we didn't
all just want to pretend anyways), and Skid Row making a Rock and Roll
sandwich with Warrant as the meat in the middle ('... did he really
say "meat in the middle?"'?) YES HE DID (er, I did!) and He's (I mean
I'm) not afraid to say it again, don't temp me (HIM!!!) I mean ME!!!
"The big problem as I saw it, and anyone who was there feel free to
write in and add your 2 cents (Actually, I'm just saying that, don't
write in because what's done is done, and there's no fooling mother
nature)... yeah, the big problem was that the skies loomed heavy with
storm clouds as the evening sun set nearing show time. There's no way
to predict the weather no matter how we try, with our Doppler
forecasts, Uncle's trick Knee that aches when the weather changes,
watching the mating pattern of fire ants on the prairie kick into
overdrive (just my little forecasting trick) to tell us whether a tent
is going to leak or not. (WHAT THE HELL DOES THAT MEAN... you ask).
I'll tell ya, I downed a 2 liter bottle of Niquil about a half an hour
ago (it's Monday evening so what the hell right?) and I'm waxing
prophetic (or as I once said many, many years ago when responding to
something Jani Lane said) feeling 'Full-a-Sh*tacle.' The rain just
came anyway, as if to say, here's what you get for making fun of our
Rain Dancing, and our Casinos in the middle of no..., I mean,
EVERYwhere, and for bringing your Devil's music to our sacred lands
and corrupting the people with your messages of 'Swinging it to the
left, and swinging it to the right.' As the slot machines poured out
their war cries and the roulette table rattled it's hypnotic, red,
black, red, black, red, black,... occasional green, then red, black,
red, black again all the while pretending to be our friend -- When all
along you could have just gone to Best Buy and purchased a Plasma
instead of second-hand smoking for hours on end only to wind up
penniless and Plasma-less. Why is that? (Rhetorical question, don't
answer, don't write back, just ponder)
"Meanwhile back at the tent-site... (oh yeah, they had erected a giant
Circus tent -- see road report about 'Lucky Star Casino' -- I just
wanted to type Circus tent again) it was raining like cats and dogs
but not just any ordinary cats and dogs like people always say, but
like big genetically mutated, perhaps by gestating in close proximity
to a nuclear (NOT Nuke-you-ler) reactor and overgrown, Saber-toothed
uber-cats. I'm talkin' hard rain. It was also a little cold, so cold
even the toughest nipples stood at attention for fear of being told to
'drop and give me twenty' by a manicly overbearing drill sergeant. The
entire set I felt like I was being subjected to some sort of Chinese
Water Torture because there was this ONE DRIP of water coming through
a pin hole in the tent roof above that kept hitting me square on the
right shoulder - no matter how I shifted on my drum seat, it kept
pelting me insistently in the same place at about a 30 second
interval. DROP, DROP, DROP... for a half an hour I was poked by drops
of water. Now you might think that this is no big deal, 'what are you
complaining about, you're sweating anyway, aren't you?' Yeah, but the
difference is (well, there are several) that my sweat is warm, for
one, and two, it doesn't hit me in the same place like a poking finger
for a half an hour straight as if to say, 'HEY YOU... you're not busy
are ya? you don't mind my reminding you that it's raining outside, oh,
let's say... every thirty seconds??? DO YA! HUH, HUH,
HUUUUHHHHHH????!!!' Besides, I'm made of water soluble material and
might be reduced to nothing more than a pool of ectoplasm on the drum
stool if subjected to too much rain water, as in this case. (I know
that's all B.S. -- I'm actually made up of mostly water as are all of
you -- don't be scared it's perfectly normal, this is a well
established biological fact -- look it up).
"Sorry to do this to you, but my daughter is looming about and it's
her 'Shower' time, I think she just read this last bit and got a
little worried (no, not about dissolving in the shower) but that her
dad might be a little crazy, so I must see to it that I confirm this
fact with her (no, not that I'm crazy) but that it's time for her to
take her shower -- so, gotta go -- thanks for reading and look forward
to our next story time!
"Nite, nite - Steven"
Please check out the New WARRANT DVD
THEY CAME FROM HOLLYWOOD
Track List:
LIVE IN THE U.S., JAPAN & ITALY (1984 - 2008)
1. Jam In Japan
2. Cherry Pie
3. Heaven
4. Down Boys
5. Rainmaker
6. Inside Out
7. Uncle Tom's Cabin
8. Hole In My Wall
9. So Damn Pretty
10. D.R.F.S.R.
BONUS MATERIAL
· Slideshow 1 - "Pop Music" (unreleased song)
· Slideshow 2 - "Medicine Man" (unreleased song)
· Slideshow 3 - "Keeping Up With The Joneses"
· "Sad Theresa" Video - Live In Los Angeles 1989
· "Not The Size That Counts" Video - Live In Los Angeles 1989
· Backstage footage - 1987
Running Time: 72 minutes
All the best in 2009!
The Down Boys
WARRANT
PO Box 301
Murrieta CA 92564
http://www.warrantweb.net/
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #6 ***
*
-Machines Of Grace Featuring TSO, Savatage And Metal Church Members
Ready Debut Release
Meet Machines Of Grace. They are the latest among the gifted hard
rock/heavy metal bands born from Boston's thriving music scene. As
with their Beantown bred forefathers (Aerosmith, Extreme, Godsmack,
Dropkick Murphys), Zak Stevens (lead vocals), Jeff Plate (drums), Matt
Leff (guitar) and Chris Rapoza (bass) have concocted their own
proprietary formula for whiplash on a disc.
Top shelf status comes from the experience of successfully headlining
major tours and support from a monumental fan base. Drummer Jeff
(Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Savatage, Metal Church) Plate and lead
singer Zak (Circle II Circle, Savatage) Stevens have the resume to
help catapult Machines Of Grace into the monsters of rock realm. The
divine mix of such magnanimous talent can convert even the most
stubborn music critic. Why? The method to their madness is embedded in
the music... "It's just a pure, solid melodic rock sound," offers
Stevens. "It has infectious grooves and its own brand of outright
power. To me, it's got great songwriting with a hard rock edge and
strong commercial appeal."
The rise of the "Machine" had to start somewhere...
Leff and Stevens have a lengthy history, spanning back to their days
as protégés at GIT/VIT respectively. Their first band, Wickedwitch,
also introduced the talents of drummer Jeff Plate, who clinched the
lineup and formed the backbone of today's brainchild: Machines Of
Grace.
During a considerable hiatus after the demise of the Wickedwitch
project, Zak Stevens had gone on to front Savatage (and more recently,
Circle II Circle), and later recruited Jeff Plate, who performs
regularly with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Metal Church.
Meanwhile, Matt Leff had formed Trigger Effect, and with bassist Chris
Rapoza, had toured as an opening act for Iron Maiden, Queensryche and
Rob Halford.
Time had clearly hit the afterburners. Call it chemistry, fate or pure
coincidence. A Wickedwitch fan suggested that the founding members
revise, rethink, record and release the original material, and voila
-- Machines Of Grace was conceived.
This band accords a shot of rock and roll that infuses several music
genres with an innovative twist of smoldering vocals and bludgeoning
guitar riffs. Blend that with an explosive rhythm section and you've
got an exceptionally powerful elixir. "I'd say we're a mix of melodic
metal, hard rock, modern rock and acoustic rock," explains guitarist
Matt Leff. "The current rock climate is calling for modern production,
strong vocal melodies and memorable songs from guys that can really
play. I think we fit that description." Bassist Chris Rapoza agrees:
"The CD has an amazing vibe that just flows really well and makes you
want to listen to it all the way through. To me, song writing and
recording with that same quality always makes for the best type of
album."
Jeff Plate tops off the sentiment: "The music is metal, but not
thrash. Rock, but not pop. We could be compared to a number of
different bands, and each song will give you a different impression,
but in the end the sound is distinctly Machines Of Grace."
That sound is likewise attributed to the talents of veteran mixologist
Paul David Hager. Credited with engineering, mixing and producing
studio work by acts such as The Goo Goo Dolls, Avril Lavigne, Pink and
Tracy Bonham, Hager brings to the table a record destined for the
spotlight, and plenty of industry accolades.
Live, this band brings new meaning to the term full throttle. The
killer studio version of the music not withstanding, Machines Of Grace
takes a live performance experience to a whole new level. Fans will
really enjoy the dueling guitar and vocal arrangements, while the
second-to-none rhythm section welds them together perfectly. Zak
promises, "You'll hear the emphasis on the album, the way the mix very
closely depicts how this band actually sounds when we plug in." How
many bands these days can do that?
Look for the debut, self-titled Machines Of Grace CD this summer.
For further information:
http://www.machinesofgrace.net/
http://www.myspace.com/machinesofgrace
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #7 ***
*
-Billy Sheehan Performs Special Record Release Party @ GIT In
Hollywood Thursday, April 30th, 2009 -- Open To The Public
Get A Chance To WIN Signed Billy Sheehan Bass From Yamaha
HOLLYWOOD, CA -- Big Bad Billy Sheehan, bassist extraordinaire will
perform songs from his latest release HOLY COW! [Mascot Records
U.S.A.] at GIT in Hollywood, CA. This special performance will be held
in the Musicians Institute Amphitheatre and is open to the public.
First 500 fans will be guaranteed seating up close to see Sheehan
play, ask questions and meet Sheehan one-on-one. Doors open @ 5:30
p.m., show starts 6:00 p.m., admission is free so get there early!
***Special addition for this show -- Be one of the first 200 to buy
Sheehan's new CD HOLY COW! at the show and have your name added to the
drawing list for a autographed bass from Yamaha. Sheehan will sign
right there on the spot!
Legendary Bass Master Bill Sheehan has released his much anticipated
third solo album entitled HOLY COW! on Mascot Records U.S.A. April
14th, 2009. The albums tracks showcase Sheehan's immense talents as
both a singer/songwriter and instrumentalist.
Sheehan pulled in top-notch arsenal with guest performances by Billy
Gibbons on "A Lit'l Bit'l Do It To Ya Ev'ry Time," Paul Gilbert (who
played with Sheehan in Mr. Big) on "Dynamic Exhilarator," Dug Pinnick
(King's X) on the song "Turning Point" as well as Ray Luzier on drums
and shred master Tony MacAlpine.
For more information go to
http://www.billysheehan.com/ or
http://www.myspace.com/billysheehan .
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #8 ***
*
-Kansas To Celebrate 35th Anniversary With Live Symphonic DVD, THERE'S
KNOW PLACE LIKE HOME, "Rockline" Appearance, And Summer Tour
All these years later, Kansas still rule the classic rock radio
airwaves, and continue to put on simply spellbinding shows of the
highest caliber. And what better way to celebrate the 35th anniversary
of the release of Kansas' self-titled 1974 debut than with a live DVD,
THERE'S KNOW PLACE LIKE HOME, which will be released on August 4th. A
hi-def for Blu-ray release (mixed in 5.1 surround sound), the show was
filmed on February 7th of this year in their home state (at Washburn
University's White Concert Hall), and was certainly not your average
affair. For this show, the group -- which includes singer/keyboardist
Steve Walsh, guitarist Rich Williams, violinist David Ragsdale,
bassist Billy Greer, and drummer Phil Ehart -- was united with former
members Kerry Livgren (guitar/keyboards) and Steve Morse (guitar), as
well as the 50-piece Washburn University Orchestra.
When asked how it was to play alongside an orchestra, Ehart responds,
"It's always an adventure. Adding another 50 people to your 'band' can
always prove eventful. Our biggest memories are usually of certain
symphonies that look down their noses at our music. What's funny about
this is that those symphonies are usually the ones that have the most
trouble playing our scores!" And when the topic of playing with
Livgren and Morse comes up, Williams gets downright philosophical.
"Very comfortable...like loose fitting underwear." Comprised of a
solid track listing that includes fine renditions of Kansas classics
("Dust In The Wind," "Carry On Wayward Son," etc.) and fan favorites
("Hold On," "On The Other Side," etc.), THERE'S KNOW PLACE LIKE HOME
will surely go down as one of the group's best-ever live performances.
In addition to the DVD's release, Kansas will appear on the popular
syndicated radio show, "Rockline," on Wednesday, August 5th, from
11:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. The group will also be supporting the DVD's
release with a summer's worth of tour dates. And if that wasn't
enough, Kansas' members (save Walsh) are preparing the debut release
of their new side band, Native Window, which will issue their self-
titled album on June 23rd, and "open" for Kansas on the summer tour.
And as far as Kansas' popularity, it continues to flourish, as their
classic ballad, "Dust In The Wind" recently obtained gold status as a
digital download, while their classic rocker, "Carry On Wayward Son,"
is featured on the games "Guitar Hero II" and "Rock Band II." "They
still get a lot of attention, still get a lot of airplay," says
Williams about the enduring popularity of Kansas' songs. "They have
retained a relevance through the years, that only a small percent of
recordings do." With the release of THERE'S KNOW PLACE LIKE HOME and
the supporting tour, Kansas will prove this theory as fact once again
this summer.
Kansas Tour dates with Native Window for 2009:
04/25/09 - Patchhogue, NY - Performing Arts Center
06/13/09 - Joplin, MO - Landreth Park
07/24/09 - Merced, CA - Fair
08/23/09 - Rochester, MN - Mayo Civic Center
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT:
http://www.kansasband.com/
http://www.starcityrecording.com/
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #9 ***
*
-Z Records News
Z Records Relaunch Ready To Set 2009 Alight
We had planned to commence the relaunch of the label earlier this year
but then came the financial recession and everything was placed on
hold that us until now.
We are pleased to announce the following release dates...
June 19th - Watchmen - s/t
July 17th - Britton - ROCK HARD + 10
July 17th - MayChild - s/t
August 21st - Vaughn - SOLDIERS AND SAILORS ON RIVERSIDE +1
In addition we also have new releases for Von Groove, Arabia, Eden and
Black 'N Blue in the pipeline for '09 along with the reissue of
Vaughn's FEARLESS + 1 later in the year. More news will follow
shortly.
Open Letter To All Those Planning On Making The Trip To Z Rock 09
Dear Friends,
With Z Rock only 5 weeks away we are all on tender hooks at Z, the
economy has not helped and we know everyone is suffering right now but
hopefully that will all be forgotten on the 29th and 30th for a short
period of time. We urge those who intend going to buy up front as it
helps us keep things on track and in turn helps towards a more relaxed
and enjoyable day for the fans and those behind the scenes.
As a special thank you to those who have supported us by buying pre-
show we have decided to give all pre-show ticket holders a special 8-
week period during which they will be able to buy their tickets for
2010 at a discounted rate. This offer will not cover those who pay on
entry. It is our intention to announce a profile act for each of the
planned nights at this year's event and we know like this year the
news will not disappoint. :O)
Entry on May 30th will be Ł55 should any tickets remain. Tickets will
be on sale at JB's and ST Records until close of business May 28th and
online at
http://www.myspace.com/zrockfest until midnight May 27th.
For those who want to order now via PayPal or mail order simpy use
zonlinesales@... . Please remember to include your address.
We will announce details regarding Friday May 29th shortly.
We hope we can count on your support pre-show if you want any further
info call us on 07818 258294.
MAY 29TH
doors 6 p.m.
06:45 - 7:25 - ANGELHOUSE
07:45 - 8:25 - REDLINE
08:45 - 9:40 - STAMPEDE
10:00 - 10:55 - STEVE GRIMMETT
11:15 - 1:00 - WIG WAM
MAY 30TH
Doors 12:30 p.m.
01:00 - 1:45 - CORNERSTONE
02:05 - 2.55 - LEC ZORN PROJECT
03:15 - 4:05 - H.A.R.D
04:25 - 5:25 - NEWMAN
05:45 - 6:45 - EDEN
07:00 - 8:00 - DAN REED
08:20 - 9:20 - VON GROOVE
09:40 -10: 50 - TED POLEY
11:10 - 00:45 - JOHN WAITE
Best Regards
Mark
Z Rock 09 -- Wig Wam Turn All Z Rock on ARFM
Glam of the superb Norwegian rockers Wig Wam will be putting Steve
Price at ARFM through the mill and talking all things Z Rock 09 this
coming Saturday at 7:30 p.m. GMT. Make sure you tune in at
http://www.arfm.co.uk/ .
http://www.zrecords.net/
http://www.myspace.com/zrockrecordsuk
http://www.myspace.com/zrockfest
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #10 ***
*
-Lacuna Coil Calls On Fans For Photo Submissions!
Lacuna Coil has been hard at work on tour with Disturbed, Killswitch
Engage and Chimaira on the Music As A Weapon IV tour this spring and
now the day has come that it is unveiling the long-awaited new album,
SHALLOW LIFE, which is on sale in stores and online everywhere! The
band would also like to invite fans to create their own interpretation
of SHALLOW LIFE and the songs on the album. All fan submissions can be
uploaded to Lacuna Coil's group album by clicking below. A video
introduction of the contest from Cristina Scabbia and Andrea Ferro can
be found at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IEvXAd0sXOw .
Lacuna Coil recorded SHALLOW LIFE with producer extraordinaire Don
Gilmore (Linkin Park, Avril Lavigne, Pearl Jam) at the world famous
NRG Studios in North Hollywood, CA. The band also released a video for
the track "Spellbound" that can be found at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_VS2B48c24 . For tour dates and more
information, visit Lacuna Coil's official MySpace page.
Lacuna Coil
Music As A Weapon IV w/ Disturbed, Killswitch Engage & Chimaira
04/28 - Petersen Center - Pittsburgh, PA
04/30 - Kellogg Arena - Battle Creek, MI
05/01 - Pierre's - Ft. Wayne, IN (w/ Killswitch Engage)
05/02 - Cobo Arena - Detroit, MI
05/03 - The Wolstein Center - Cleveland, OH
05/05 - Value City Arena - Columbus, OH
05/06 - Peoria Civic Center - Peoria, IL
05/08 - Target Center - Minneapolis, MN
05/09 - Balloon Classic Field - Des Moines, IA
05/10 - Resch Center - Green Bay, WI
05/11 - Ramkota Exhibit Hall - Sioux Falls, SD (w/ Killswitch Engage)
05/12 - Lacrosse Center - Lacrosse, WI
05/13 - Roberts Stadium - Evansville, ID
05/15 - Mid America Center - Council Bluffs, IA
05/16 - Charter One Pavillion - Chicago, IL
05/17 - Resch Center - Green Bay, WI
Check out the Lacuna Coil Fan Submissions and Upload Your Own!
http://gs0005.photobucket.com/groups/0005/EXKMUKRMJD/?pbaffsite=759
http://www.lacunacoil.it/
http://www.myspace.com/lacunacoil
http://www.youtube.com/lacunacoil
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #11 ***
*
-"America's Hottest Rocker Mom" Contest
[Note: This came from HeadbangerNYC.com. - Tim]
Former Skid Row singer Sebastian Bach will join the "Z Rock" boys
Paulie, David and Joey as judges of the "America's Hottest Rocker Mom"
contest.
IFC is looking for "America's Hottest Rocker Mom" to celebrate Season
2 of its uncensored, uncut comedy "Z Rock." In keeping with the
series' "kids'-band-by-day, rock-band-by-night" storyline, the band is
setting out to find America's rocking-est mom. Five finalists will be
chosen to compete in June for a live, no-holds-barred finals event.
Rocker moms, you can enter to win a trip to New York City, a $5,000
grand prize. Enter online by May 14 at midnight at IFC.com. To enter,
you'll be asked to provide one or more photos, favorite rock song,
favorite rock band, best rock concert moment, biggest rocker crush,
and a statement explaining why YOU should be chosen as America's
hottest rocker mom.
The judges will choose four finalists -- and the fifth "People's
Choice" will come from site visitor ratings. The finalists will be
flown to New York City to vie for the title in a live competition in
front of the judges on June 4. Each of these rocker moms will be
judged on performances in the following categories: (Best Rocker
Outfit), Knowledge (Rocker Trivia), Lyrics (Rock Karaoke Contest), and
Dance (Show Off Your Best Moves.)
Season 2 of "Z Rock" premieres on Sunday, June 7 at 11 p.m.
Contest Details:
http://www.ifc.com/rockermom/officialrules.php
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #12 ***
*
-Powerwolf: BIBLE OF THE BEAST Out Now, Live Clip Off Bonus DVD
Online!
Please click on
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1XFg1unxtP4 to check
out a live clip of "We Take It From The Living" taken from THE WACKEN
WORSHIP - LIVE AT WACKEN OPEN AIR 2008, the bonus DVD that is included
in the limited edition of Powerwolf's new masterpiece BIBLE OF THE
BEAST!
After three months of intense songwriting the band was ready to hit
the studios in November 2008, this time recording the basic tracks at
Kohlekeller Studios near Frankfurt in Germany, while once again for
the church organ parts they invaded a chapel near Thionville in
Northern France.
On BIBLE OF THE BEAST Powerwolf fulfilled a dream they had kept since
they started working with choirs on LUPUS DEI. For BIBLE OF THE BEAST,
no less than 25 classically educated singers of the Musikhochschule
des Saarlandes (a national conservatory for classical music) sang
choir arrangements on eight of the songs.
For the mix of the album, Powerwolf once again worked with the
legendary Fredrik Nordström at Studio Fredman (In Flames, HammerFall,
Dimmu Borgir), who seems to have outdone himself this time in setting
up a massive, powerful, yet transparent wall of sound, that perfectly
transports both the heavy edge as well as all the many details
Powerwolf put into this album.
BIBLE OF THE BEAST is released now! Go and get your copy!
Listen to what the press has to say about BIBLE OF THE BEAST:
"For the third time in a row they have outdone themselves! Each one of
the eleven tracks, all enhanced with massive choir sections, is a real
arena hit... [...] A masterpiece!" ROCK HARD (D), 10/10 points
"One hit follows another... " HEAVY (D), 11/12 points, Soundcheck #2
METAL HAMMER (D), Soundcheck #2
"BIBLE OF THE BEAST is a very strong record, that should be
recommended to every metal fan." METAL.DE, 8/10 points
http://www.powerwolf.net/
http://www.myspace.com/powerwolfmetal
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #13 ***
*
-Orange Sky Confirmed To Rock With King's X, In Support Of Latest
Release, DAT IZ VOODOO
Port of Spain, Trinidad may not be the first city music fans think of
when the discussion of "hot rockspots" comes up. But if the sophomore
effort from Orange Sky, DAT IZ VOODOO, is a representation of the
local talent, it may soon join the likes of New York, Seattle, and
London, as the group (which is comprised of singer/lead guitarist
Nigel Rojas, rhythm guitarist Joel Beazer, bassist Nicholas Rojas,
keyboardist Richard Hall, and drummer Obasi Springer) will be opening
up a string of Texas dates with metal legends King's X. "We have
always loved King's X, some of us since the early '90s," says Rojas.
"We did one opening slot for them last year, in Kentucky, and got to
meet Doug and the guys personally. They put on an incredible live show
and we are honored to be able to share the stage with them."
The style that Orange Sky specialize in is quite varied...yet rocking.
Perhaps a fan once gave the group the highest compliment, by gushing,
"You guys sound and perform like if the Wailers and Black Sabbath had
a baby." "I call our sound 'rock and roll,'" says Nigel. "We emulate
everything -- hard rock, soft rock, punk, reggae, and metal, so I
think the term rock and roll covers all these styles, and does not
create an expectation from the potential listener of us being too
metal, too reggae, too hard, or too soft. Our overall style offers all
these soundscapes, colors, and emotions."
DAT IZ VOODOO, released via StarCity Records, represents a rebirth of
sorts for Orange Sky, and proves that the group's critically acclaimed
debut, 2006's UPSTAIRS, was no fluke. Case in point, the album-opening
riff monger "Yesterdays And Tomorrows," the thrashy "Psycho World,"
the industrial-strength reggae-rock of "Is There Anybody There?"
(which is a barely recognizable cover of a Scorpions song), and the
crunching funk-metal riffs of "Dark Room." But there is one song
specifically that stands out for Nigel. "I would say 'Alone,' because
it is a blast from the past -- we all like to think of it as a song we
could share on the radio." A dozen songs in all, guaranteed to get
fists pumping and moshpits swirling -- with a couple of lighters-in-
the-air/arm-around-your-girl moments in between.
And while DAT IZ VOODOO is a fine stylistic showcase for the group,
the quintet promises fans that they will take it to the next level on
the album's ensuing tour. "Orange Sky live is one hell of a bad ass,
fist pumping, heart melting, hilarious, thought provoking assault on
the nervous system! Within an hour, our show will turn everyone
exposed to us into our new friends and future Orange Sky seed sowers.
Sounds arrogant? Not intended, just what we know what we are capable
of -- ask anyone who has been there. We seriously rock!"
ORANGE SKY HEADLINING ENGAGEMENTS:
4/25/09 - The Pit in Jacksonville, Florida
4/29/09 - The Garage in St. Petersburg, Florida
5/1/09 - Pegasus Lounge in Tampa, Florida
5/2/09 - Backstage Lounge in Gainesville, Florida
5/7/09 - The Dungeon in Orlando, Florida
5/8/09 - Doc's Place in Lakeland, Florida
5/16/09 - Bourbon Street in New Port Richey, Florida
5/21/09 - Flamingo Cantina in Austin, Texas
5/23/09 - Bonds 007 in San Antonio, Texas
TOUR DATES W/ KING'S X:
5/28/09 - Jack's Patio Bar & Grill in San Antonio, TX
5/29/09 - Josabi's in Helotes, TX
5/30/09 - Meridian in Houston, TX
6/1/09 - Red Eyed Fly in Austin, TX
6/2/09 - Club 101 in El Paso, TX
6/4/09 - Brick By Brick in San Diego, CA
6/5/09 - Key Club in West Hollywood, CA
6/6/09 - Galaxy Theatre in Santa Ana, CA
6/8/09 - Berbati's Pan in Portant, OR
6/9/09 - El Corazon in Seattle, WA
6/10/09 - The Grail in Ceour d'Alene, ID
6/12/09 - Club Vegas in Salt Lake City, UT
6/13/09 - Owsley's Golden Road in Denver, CO
6/15/09 - The Waiting Room in Omaha, NE
6/16/09 - The Riot Room in Kansas City, MO
6/17/09 - Knickerbockers in Lincoln, NE
6/19/09 - Nutty's North in Sioux Falls, SD
6/20/09 - The Venue @ The Hub in Fargo,ND
6/24/09 - House of Bricks in Des Moines, IA
6/26/09 - Shank Hall in Milwaukee, WI
6/27/09 - Double Door in Chicago, IL
7/1/09 - Juanita's Cantina Ballroom in Little Rock, AR
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT:
http://www.theorangesky.com/
http://www.starcityrecording.com/
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #14 ***
*
-Devin Townsend Project To Release KI
In a world of increasing conformity and musical banality, Devin
Townsend is among the few real personalities who have character,
charisma and surprising innovative creativity. As a solo artist and
producer, a member of the (by now disbanded) Strapping Young Lad, with
whom he played Ozzfest and the main stage at the Download festival,
and vocalist on Steve Vai's album, SEX AND RELIGION, Townsend has
always inspired fans and critics alike. The latest chapter of his
extremely diverse career is entitled KI and will be out in May/June
2009. "KI is the first in a series of four albums under the moniker
'Devin Townsend Project.' Each album is essentially a different band
or collection of session musicians playing my music," Townsend
explains. "They were chosen based on what the theme of the album is
and the vibe that the album is trying to project. The album KI is very
specific in this quartet of albums in that it controls its anger
throughout, barring one song -- 'Heaven Send' -- and really is an
exercise in having little to prove."
The most renowned project member on KI is drummer Duris Maxwell (62),
who has played with many acts, such as Heart, Jefferson Airplane, The
Powder Blues, Tommy Chong and The Temptations. Maxwell even jammed
with Hendrix. "I am very conscious of drummers and the energy they
bring to the bands," Townsend says. "I went to a blues club way up in
the North of Canada and watched Duris. He has the vibe I wanted for
the drums here: nothing to prove, but strong and a bit angry. Duris is
an older cat but he's heavy." He is supported by bassist Jean Savoie.
"Jean plays in a Beatles cover band and spent years playing the cruise
ships all over the world. Name a style and he can jam it for hours.
His technique is accomplished, and the fact that he had never played
heavy music made him and Duris perfect for the project." Dave Young is
the keyboardist, and Townsend has been working with him for years:
"He's the most schooled musician out of all of us and can play any
instrument. Keyboard players typically annoy the hell out of me, but
Dave is more of an ambient musician and fills the spaces with fitting
but unusual note choices simply by watching where I am on my
fretboard."
After an extremely difficult phase ("I quit many bad habits in my life
after SYL ended. I felt depressed, angry and unhealthy and was not
satisfied with living that way for the rest of my life. I quit all
drugs, alcohol and a host of other addictions that were controlling me
and my world"), KI now sees him embark on an unmistakably new path.
Although not overly aggressive, the album oozes a haunting intensity,
a vitality which hides below a seemingly smooth surface. "KI is a
subtle, severe album, a challenge in some ways. The point to the music
is that the whisper is louder than the roar in many ways. KI is -- on
the surface -- quiet and unassuming. Whenever it begins to lose its
temper, it stops and doesn't let go. It is avoiding that temptation,
as that sort of anger is really gratifying but ultimately just leaves
me unhappy."
In perfect unison with this thoroughly unusual, gripping and
intelligent album, Townsend presents a three-dimensional cover
artwork. As the music on KI, the graphic design is also consciously
multilayered. Townsend: "I live in the North of Canada and I believe
that the native cultures of the world have it really down in terms of
spirituality. Nature is 'God,' in all its subtlety and terror. And we
are all a part of it, whether or not we want to be. The mask on the
cover is based on native North American and Chinese paintings. It is
not authentic and is just meant to be two faces in one."
And what will the future bring? "When all four records in the DTP
series are done and the ultimate box set is released at the end (eight
records plus a DVD), I will play selected shows throughout the world.
I will not climb into a van and play clubs in the middle of nowhere,
though, I am going to assemble a sober team of incredible musicians to
play ALL the records, perfectly, to many people. You will see me soon,
and get ready for the next three records in the series; KI is a subtle
introduction to a sprawling theme. Please enjoy, it's good to be
back."
http://www.myspace.com/devintownsenddtb
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #15 ***
*
-The Iron Maidens: Three Sets For One Dollar This Saturday!
http://www.theironmaidens.com/
Yes indeed, this is the only thing cheep about a Maidens show!!!!
Three sets for ONE DOLLAR!! HOLY SMOKE!!!!!! Now That's A Recession
Fighter!
Saturday, May 2nd
It's at the FABULOUS Santa Fe Springs Swap Meet! Three sets for a
BUCK! Yep, that's right ... just ONE DOLLAR for a full afternoon of
fine entertainment! What a circus this will be with Maiden being
jammed out in the daylight hours!Plus, it's an ALL AGES SHOW! Come and
welcome our NEW "Bruce Chickinson and Adriana Smith."
WE WANT INFORMATION...INFORMATION!:
Saturday, May 2nd
Santa Fe Springs Swap Meet
13963 Alondra Blvd.
Sante Fe Springs, CA 90670
http://www.sfsswapmeet.com/
Set times:
Noon
1:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m.
We will be debuting two NEVER BEFORE PLAYED songs in these sets so be
ready for a full dose of MAIDEN TUNES!
Hope to see ya there!!! Don't forget the sunscreen!
For more info please visit:
http://www.theironmaidens.com/tour/shows.html
Upcoming Shows
Tuesday, May 26th
The Whisky, Hollywood, CA
The Michelle Meldrum Benefit Show with (The Iron Maidens, Phantom
Blue, Lizzy Borden, Meldrum, Lemmy and lots more TBA)
Saturday, June 6th
OC Tavern, San Clemente, CA
Other News
Friday, May 1st
Nikki McBurrain sitting in with "Surfing with an Alien - The Joe
Satriani Tribute"
The Galaxy Theatre -- ALL AGES 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, April 28th
Steph Harris will be performing classical selections for the orchestra
in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA.
SPREAD THE WORD!!!!
Sign up to be on The Iron Maidens Street Team at
http://www.theironmaidens.com/streetteam.html .
Pass out flyers for an upcoming show in your area and get your butt
into that show for FREE! Team for me!!!
JOIN THE IRON MAIDENS TEXT "MESSAGE BALL" GROUP
Get the latest show updates and band info as well as special discounts
and giveaways only available through this group via a text message to
your cell phone. It fun and it's FREE**! (**your carrier's normal text
rates may apply) Just click
http://www.theironmaidens.com/ and enter
your Cell Phone where prompted.
To chat with the group, please go to
http://www.ultimatemetal.com/forum/iron-maidens-171/ .
Until the next time,
Up the Bloody Irons, Baby!
World's Only Female Tribute to Iron Maiden
http://www.theironmaidens.com/
http://www.myspace.com/theironmaidens
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #16 ***
*
-Swashbuckle Reveals Cover Art To BACK TO THE NOOSE
AHOY! New Jerseys pirate thrash armada Swashbuckle just revealed the
cover artwork for its Nuclear Blast debut BACK TO THE NOOSE!
Swashbuckle states:
"Aye, we pirates three commissioned the likes of the finest artisan we
could scour amoungst the blackhearts of digital designers for the
artwork for BACK TO THE NOOSE. Adam Vehige is his name, and kicking
conceptual ass is his game.
"We brought this legend of graphical creation our BACK TO THE NOOSE
concept of Captain Crotchrot (our recurring decaying mascot miscreant)
breaking free of the gallows to join an intense cannon warfare battle
upon the ocean's blue.
"Adam accepted our payment of stolen gold shillings and doubloons
(aye, blood money, and cursed it be) and rendered us some brutal cover
art. If ye be seekin' nautical nonsense and high-seas hijinx, vicious
splash-n-thrash attack and malicious moshing madness, ye will
certainly be needin' no more persuasion than gazin' yar weary eyes
upon our album art!"
For more of Vehige's work:
http://vegasmike.deviantart.com/
Keep checking the band's MySpace as new tracks are about to be
unleashed REAL SOON!!
Swashbuckle are one of the three winners of last year's Nuclear Blast
MySpace Bands Contest.
BACK TO THE NOOSE is set to be released on July 31st (Europe) and TBA
(North America). The thrashing trio will also hit Europe hard at
Legacy Fest, Metal Dayz Festival and Summer Nights Festival this May
in Germany, Switzerland and Austria! Be prepared!!
The band will also embark on Paganfest North America Part II on April
28th along with label mates Korpiklaani, Primordial, Moonsorrow and
Blackguard!
http://www.swashbuckle.info/
http://www.myspace.com/swashbuckle
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Swashbuckle/71641780327
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #17 ***
*
-Static-X Embarks On A European Summer Tour
CULT OF STATIC Out NOW On Reprise Records
HOLLYWOOD, CA -- Static-X will be hammering out their heaviest, most
flammable work to date as they start their trek of major European
festivals June 12th in Tallinn, Estonia. Just coming off the coattails
of headlining 2009's Snocore U.S. run, this European metal journey is
in support of their new release CULT OF STATIC, on Reprise Records.
The album marries the band's aggressive driving force with disarming
experimentation, a performance you do not want to miss.
Static-X's CULT OF STATIC debuted at #16 on Billboard's Top 200 while
"Stingwray" hit the charts as the first single. 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."
The fiery raw quality of CULT OF STATIC is blatant as the second
single Z-28 now on the airwaves is climbing to the top.
EUROPEAN TOUR DATES
June
12 - Tallinn - Rabarock Festival
13 - UK - Download Festival
14 - Glasgow - Cathouse
15 - Belfast - Limelight
16 - Dublin - Academy
18 - Sheffield - Corporation
19 - London - Islington Academy
21 - Austria - Nova Rock
22 - Zurich - Abart
23 - Munich - 59:1
25 - Koln - Underground
26 - Belgium - Grasspop
27 - Bielefeld - Serengeti Open Air
28 - Italy - Gods of Metal
30 - Aschaffenberg - Colos Saal
July
1 - Utrecht - Tivoli
3 - Germany - WWF Festival
4 - Czech Republic - Rock for People
For more information go to
http://www.myspace.com/staticx or
http://www.static-x.com/ .
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #18 ***
*
-Arkaea To Unleash Debut Album Worldwide
YEARS IN THE DARKNESS To Release July 14th, 2009 on E1 Music
HOLLYWOOD, CA -- Arkaea, featuring members Raymond Herrera and
Christian Olde Wolbers of Fear Factory and Threat Signal, have just
finished their debut album YEARS IN THE DARKNESS. The album is set to
be released on July 14, 2009 on E1 Music, formerly KOCH Records.
YEARS IN THE DARKNESS was produced by Christian Olde Wolbers and
Arkaea and mixed by legendary Producer Terry Date, best known for his
work with the Deftones, Slipknot, White Zombie, Soundgarden and
Pantera. The CD was mastered by Ted Jensen of Sterling Sound, who also
mastered Fear Factory's gold album, OBSOLETE.
"We are truly proud of this record," states Olde Wolbers. "Ironically
half of the Arkaea album consists of songs that were intended to be
the next Fear Factory record."
Track listing for YEARS IN THE DARKNESS is as follows:
Locust
Beneath The Shades Of Grey
Years In The Darkness
Gone Tomorrow
Awakening
Black Ocean
Break The Silence
Lucid Dreams
My Redemption
War Within
The World As One
Rise Today
Away From The Sun
First song on the album, "Locust," Is available streaming on the
band's MySpace:
http://www.myspace.com/arkaeamusic
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #19 ***
*
-Misfortune Records Signs A Distance From
One of Canada's newest and upcoming metal labels Misfortune Records is
proud to announce the signing of Toronto's hardcore metal act A
Distance From to their rising roster (SkumLove, Hebron). A Distance
From is set to record their debut EP titled TRANSITIONS at Metal Works
Studios in Toronto, ON in June 2009 followed by a soon to be announced
tour and EP release date for the fall.
"I'm looking forward to exposing ADF's talents to the world, their
sound and influence grabs their audience and is pushing forward the
Toronto hardcore scene," says Misfortune Records founder Chris Comete.
For the last four year's ADF has been incubating their talents and
have been embraced by fans for their compulsion to deliver an
outstanding performance both on and off stage.
"We're really excited on joining the Misfortune family, they've been a
huge supporter of the underground hardcore scene in Toronto and I have
so much respect for Chris Comete who has been pushing the scene
further over the last few years." says ADF's front man Troy. "I can't
wait to get in studio and scream my lungs out for this EP. It's going
to be a jaw dropper."
A Distance From is a melting pot of influences ranging from Biggy
Smalls, Pantera and Deftones. The band has been playing with some of
Toronto's well known Underground Hardcore/Metal bands including The
Fitzpatrick Incident, Deterrence, On Burning Shores as well as
regional bands such as I Wrestled A Bear Once and Arise And Ruin. The
group conveys a sound for fans of Misery Signals, Between The Buried
And Me and Acacia Strain.
TROY - Lungs
JUSTIN - Guitar
CARLO - Guitar
RINO - Bass
KEITH - Drums
Upcoming Tour Dates
April 24, 2009 - Kathedral - Toronto, ON
w/ Call To Preserve, The Fitzpatrick Incident, On Burning Shores
May 10, 2009 - LakeShore Lions Hall - Barrie, ON
w/ On Burning Shores, To Cherish
June 30, 2009 - The Chubby Pickle - Windsor, ON
w/ The Fitzpatrick Incident, Days Fade, Rhinoceros
MP3 - "And Then I Cut Her Head Off"
http://www.divshare.com/download/7128258-f6a
Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Distance-From/7516161204?v=wall&viewas=517388684
YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3c8sDEMoOQ
MySpace
http://www.myspace.com/adistancefrommusic
Misfortune Records
http://www.MisfortuneRecords.com/
Misfortune Records Online Store
http://misfortunerecords.bigcartel.com/
Facebook Group - Misfortune Records
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?sid=db468d947f81295b2446b462fef6c6e5&gid=24604\
96929
MySpace - Misfortune Records
http://www.myspace.com/misfortune_records
About Misfortune:
Metal is what Misfortune Records was made from, as a staying power for
new and upcoming bands in North America. With last year's solid
releases, Skumlove: SONGS OF LUST AND CORROSION, Modern Crimes (self-
titled), Circus Of Dead Squirrels: TPMC2: JUDGMENT DAY and this year's
Hebron's RESURRECTION. Now in its third year of operation Misfortune
Records is continuing to scout talent and expand into new territory.
Misfortune Records is grateful for the amount of support that we
receive from around the world and here at home from all the people,
bands and friends.
Metal made us Do it!
Misfortune Records
Please send to:
Misfortune Records Inc
Suite 903 220 Eglinton Ave East
Toronto, Ontario
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #20 ***
*
-Pestilence Headlines Maryland Deathfest May 24th
The ONLY U.S.A. Show -- DO NOT MISS THIS PERFORMANCE
RESURRECTION MACABRE to Release April 28th, 2009 On Mascot Records USA
HOLLYWOOD, CA -- May 24th at the Maryland DeathFest 2009, U.S.A.
metal-heads get a skull-crushing performance from one of the earliest
innovators of Death Metal -- The return of Pestilence after 15 years
of deathlike silence.
Pestilence will release a brand new studio album RESURRECTION MACABRE
April 28th on Mascot Records USA. This album marks the display of the
timeless power from a band that is the pacesetter of brutal death
metal with extreme technique and skill.
The brand new album was recorded in Denmark, with producer Jacob
Hansen. The new incarnation of Pestilence consists of original band
member Patrick Mameli, the American bass wizard Tony Choy (Atheist,
Cynic, a.o.) and powerhouse drummer Peter Wildoer (Arch Enemy,
Darkane, a.o.). Guitar player Patrick Uterwijk will join the band for
the live shows.
The result of many months of hard work is aptly titled RESURRECTION
MACABRE. The new album has everything to offer that a fan of
Pestilence -- old and new. It has the dark atmosphere, brutal vocals,
sheer power and technical skills the trademarks of Pestilence.
Another link to the glory days of the past are the three old
Pestilence songs that get a new life on the new album: "Chemo
Therapy," "Out Of The Body" and "Lost Souls," all coming from the
first two Pestilence albums. "It seemed like a good idea to connect
ourselves to our musical past," explains Mameli. "Apart from that I
liked the idea of revisiting those old songs and to see what they
would sound like when performed and recorded in this advanced day and
age."
The first responses of fans, promoters and media are overwhelming and
unanimous: Pestilence are back!
For more information go to
http://www.myspace.com/pestilenceofficial .
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #21 ***
*
-Marduk: Blackenedfest 2009 Tour Update!
Swedish black metallers Marduk are preparing for their pillage through
North America on this year's Blackenedfest. The 22-date trek kicks off
May 21st and will hit major cities throughout the US as well as
Toronto and Montreal. Also on the tour: Mayhem, Cephalic Carnage,
Cattle Decapitation and Withered.
Formed by guitarist Morgan Steinmeyer Hĺkansson with the goal of
becoming the "most blasphemous band in the world," it's been nearly a
decade since Marduk last toured the states making an already punishing
tour package all the more crucial. Marduk's latest album, ROM 5:12,
was released in North America in May 2007 via Regain.
Said Marduk in a collective statement to fans: "We are delighted to
announce Marduk's return to North America. We do not come in peace,
but with flames of fire! Looking forward to see you all!"
BLACKENEDFEST TOUR DATES
5/21/2009 The Fillmore at Irving Plaza - New York, NY
5/22/2009 Sonar (as part of the Maryland Deathfest) - Baltimore, MD
5/23/2009 Ground Zero - Spartanburg, SC
5/24/2009 Club Firestone - Orlando, FL
5/26/2009 Numbers - Houston, TX
5/27/2009 The White Rabbit - San Antonio, TX
5/28/2009 Chic's - El Paso, TX
5/29/2009 Sunshine Theater - Albuquerque, NM
5/30/2009 Clubhouse - Tempe, AZ
5/31/2009 House of Blues - San Diego, CA
6/02/2009 House of Blues - Hollywood, CA
6/03/2009 DNA Lounge - San Francisco, CA
6/04/2009 Hawthorne Theater - Portland, OR
6/05/2009 Studio Seven - Seattle, WA
6/06/2009 Knitting Factory Concert House - Boise, ID
6/07/2009 Cervantes Masterpiece - Denver, CO
6/09/2009 Station 4 - St Paul, MN
6/11/2009 House Of Blues - Chicago, IL
6/12/2009 Peabody's - Cleveland, OH
6/13/2009 The Majestic Theater - Detroit, MI
6/14/2009 The Opera House - Toronto, ONT
6/15/2009 Les Foufounes Electriques - Montreal, QC
http://www.myspace.com/blackenedfest
http://www.marduk.nu/
http://www.myspace.com/truemarduk
http://www.regainrecords.com/
http://www.thunderdometouring.com
*
*** PRESS RELEASE #22 ***
*
-Nachtmystium To Tour With Pentagram!
An update from team Nachtmystium: "It is with much honor to announce
our upcoming mini-tour with U.S. rock/doom legends Pentagram! The tour
kicks off right here in our neighborhood in Chicago and will take us
to the West Coast and then down to Texas for six exclusive
performances with this very influential band that's been around for
nearly four decades in one form or another!
"Thanks to everyone who had a hand in getting us the direct support
slot for this tour...we're very stoked about it and hoping to make it
to some of our fans who missed us on our canceled tour in April as a
result of Blake's broken leg."
Nachtmystium On Tour With Pentagram:
06/27/2009 The Empty Bottle - Chicago, IL
06/30/2009 Studio Seven - Seattle, WA
07/01/2009 Satyricon - Portland, OR
07/02/2009 DNA Lounge - San Francisco, CA
07/03/2009 House of Blues - Hollywood, CA
07/06/2009 Emo's - Austin, TX
http://www.myspace.com/nachtmystium
*
*** NEWS/RUMORS ***
*
-Anvil was on CNN last week; check out a clip at
http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/showbiz/2009/04/22/am.intv.anvil.cnn?iref=video\
search
.
-The Atomic Punks -- "the world's most popular tribute band" -- will
make its New York City debut at B.B. King's Blues Club on May 15.
-Check out a cool new podcast at TheRightToRock.com, featuring an
interview with guitarist Reb Beach, online now at
http://www.therighttorock.com/media/podcast-079.mp3 . The conversation
covers his whole career, with focus on the upcoming Whitesnake tour
with Judas Priest, the next Winger album (supposedly will be a fun
'80s album, unlike the "darker" IV), and his time in Dokken and Night
Ranger.
-Tons -- and we do mean *tons* -- of great stuff is coming out of
Black-Sabbath.com's "Pilgrims Of Sabbocracy" e-mail list, now that
Heaven & Hell's THE DEVIL YOU KNOW is out. Go to the Web site for all
the full stories and details, but for now here are some highlights:
- The Best Buy U.S. version of THE DEVIL YOU KNOW includes a 21-minute
bonus "making of" DVD, and is on sale this week for $9.99.
- There are two bonus live tracks -- "I" and "Die Young" -- at iTunes
and they apparently can be purchased separately from the album:
http://tinyurl.com/ckg8s7
- A two-disc vinyl version of the album is due out in May.
- According to recent conversations, Ronnie James Dio indicated
another studio album may be on the horizon.
- Rumors have been circulating Heaven & Hell will tour the U.K. with
Manowar; the rumors are false.
- The "Bible Black" video is available at:
http://new.music.yahoo.com/videos/--209125267
- The band played a short rehearsal gig in front of a small crowd.
These songs were played: "Bible Black," "Fear," "Follow The Tears,"
"Time Machine." Check out the full report at Black-Sabbath.com, and
photos and a forum thread link at these URLs:
http://www.black-sabbath.com/gallery_2/v/concertpics/2009/042709/
http://www.black-sabbath.com/vb/showthread.php?t=30909
- Dio and Geezer Butler were on VH1 Classic's "That Metal Show" with
Eddie Trunk last week; check it out here:
http://tinyurl.com/dj8oj8
- Check out an article where drummer Bill Ward clears up
misconceptions about his involvement with the Heaven & Hell project:
http://tinyurl.com/c2hkpf
Special ***big*** thanks to Joe Siegler for all this info.
-Bloodbound's TABULA RASA is out now on Blistering Records. Urban
Breed (Tad Morose) is back on vocals. Track list: "Sweet Dreams Of
Madness," "Dominion 5," "Take One," "Tabula Rasa," "Night Touches
You," "Tabula Rasa Pt. II (Nothing At All)," "Plague Doctor," "Master
Of My Dreams," "Twisted Kind Of Fate," "All Rights Reserved." The
limited edition digi-pak version includes a bonus video called "A Year
With Bloodbound." See
http://www.bloodbound.se/ and
http://www.myspace.com/bloodboundonline for more, and check out song
clips at
http://musicbuymail.eu/?i=27255 .
-Cage's 13-song SCIENCE OF ANNIHILATION is due out May 24; tracks
include "Planet Crusher," "Speed Kills," "Scarlet Wish," and the
"Science Of Annihilation" trilogy. The "Planet Crusher" digital
download single is available now. See
http://www.cageheavymetal.com/
and
http://www.myspace.com/cageheavymetal for more, and check out song
clips at
http://musicbuymail.eu/index.php?i=27273 .
-Creed is reuniting for an album and tour. Vocalist Scott Stapp is
expected to continue as a solo artist, and the other band members are
expected to continue with Alter Bridge. Check out an article at
http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/news/creed-to-reunite-for-tour-album-1003966755.s\
tory
.
-The Dead End Kidz are now on Facebook and Twitter. Check out
http://www.facebook.com/pages/THE-DEAD-END-KIDZ/6323764485 and
http://www.twitter.com/thedeadendkidz .
-Impellitteri's WICKED MAIDEN is out now on Metal Heaven. The lineup:
Rob Rock (vocals), Chris Impellitteri (guitar), James Pulli (bass),
Brandon Wild (drums). Track list: "Wicked Maiden," "Last Of A Dying
Breed," "Weapons Of Mass Distortion," "Garden Of Eden," "The Vision,"
"Eyes Of An Angel," "High School Revolution," "Wonderful Life,"
"Holyman," "The Battle Rages On," and the bonus video "Last Of A Dying
Breed." Hype says the disc "is pure metal with screaming vocals,
shredding guitar solos, killer rhythm section, and a fat production."
Check out song clips at
http://musicbuymail.eu/?i=27217 , and go to
http://www.nehrecords.com/SHOP/ImpellitteriWicked.htm for clips and
album info. See
http://www.myspace.com/impellitteriofficialsite for
more.
-Take a look at an excellent write-up of the theatrical debut of the
Iron Maiden documentary film "Iron Maiden: Flight 666" at
http://www.examiner.com/x-5629-Heavy-Metal-Examiner~y2009m4d22-Iron-Maiden-takes\
-to-the-skies-with-Flight-666-a-documentary-film-of-epic-proportions
.
-There are some excellent Journey cover songs by the band Recess,
featuring a 9-year-old on guitar, here:
"Separate Ways"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUYe0XLe4o8
"Lights"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbA_eq3srcI&feature=related
-Check out a new Lacuna Coil interview and concert photo gallery at
http://glclk.about.com/?zi=1/71bN .
-The Rock Gone Wild festival has added Primal Fear, Honeymoon Suite,
April Wine, Cherie Currie (Runaways), and Powerman 5000 to the lineup.
See
http://www.rockgonewild.com/ for more.
-There's a new interview with Warrant guitarist Erik Turner at
http://www.warrantweb.net/ .
Thanks to Mark "The Examiner" Morton, John Erigo, therealmccoy,
HeadbangerNYC.com, Music Buy Mail, Chad Bowar, Ray Waddell,
MelodicRock.com, Bill Kotowski, and Jeff "f'n awesome!" Adee for help
gathering some of this information.
*
*** ROCK HARD RIDE FREE ***
*
by Tim Wadzinski (
tsw512@...)
-The other day I found something at the bottom of a drawer at work:
Dangerous Toys' 2007 live DVD PLAYDEN JAPAN - LIVE IN TOKYO. It's
about two hours long and has footage from the band's first trip to
Japan, in 2001. I had to refresh my memory so I watched it again. Man,
how I miss this band... The set featured hits and rarities from the
three "main" albums (the s/t from '89, HELLACIOUS ACRES from '90, and
the underrated PISSED from '94), a token "Share The Kill" from 1995's
curveball THE R.TIST 4.MERLY KNOWN AS DANGEROUS TOYS, and two covers:
stabs at Dirty Looks' (guitarist Paul Lidel's other band) "It's Not
The Way You Rock" and James Brown's "I Got You (I Feel Good)." Oh, one
more: They threw a bit of Iron Maiden's "Running Free" into "Gimme No
Lip." (Who do they think they are with the medleys, Dio?) Front man
Jason McMaster was his usual charming self, too. After he fist-bumped
a seemingly timid guy in the crowd, he said "You are a god. You are.
We're now Power Ranger Brothers or some sh*t, right?" Then he brought
a girl on stage to say the "Teas'n Pleas'n" breakdown line "Oh man, I
think I got the wrong house," and kept her up there to dance and bop
around wildly for a while. Then the kicker -- the band dusted off
"Feels Like A Hammer," and when McMaster couldn't remember the words,
a dutiful fan handed up the CD booklet so he could brush up. Awesome.
-I was watching "24" the other night and was caught off-guard by Gene
Simmons' new commercial for Dr. Pepper Cherry. He's sitting on stage
in full Demon regalia, with three lovelies nearby, and there's a big
Kiss-font "SMOOTH" sign in the background. He goes on about being a
doctor, while "Calling Dr. Love" plays underneath. Cheesy, cool, and
funny.
-My friend Bill clued me in to a hilarious "review" of Nickelback's
live DVD called UNCENSORED - LIVE AT STURGIS 2006. Read now:
http://popdose.com/how-bad-can-it-be-nickelback-live-at-sturgis-2006/
.
-Crud! I forgot to watch "Time Warp" on Discovery Channel last night.
I'd seen something online about Metallica being the subject of the
episode's time-lapse photography. Hopefully there's a rerun soon.
-What's this about Running Wild "calling it a day" at this year's
Wacken fest? Rock'n'Rolf has a new punk-metal band or something? Argh.
-Like Creed? Me neither. So check out the "Creed Shreds" video at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipy58SaIRhs . (Thanks again, Bill.)
-In my current playlist: Heaven & Hell - THE DEVIL YOU KNOW (Rhino),
Great White - RISING (Shrapnel Records), Jungle Rot - WHAT HORRORS
AWAIT (Napalm Records), Shooting Blanks - YOU'RE NOT GONNA WANT TO
HEAR THIS... (F-Bomb Records).
*
*** REVIEWS ***
*
CHILDREN OF BODOM - BLOODDRUNK (A) Spinefarm Records, 2008
10 tracks, RT 40:25
[
http://www.cobhc.com/ ]
[
http://www.scythes-of-bodom.com/ ]
[
http://www.myspace.com/childrenofbodom ]
[
http://www.spinefarm.fi/ ]
[
http://www.myspace.com/spinefarmrecordsuk ]
This could easily be my favorite album released in 2008. Children Of
Bodom are back with their sixth album, BLOODDRUNK, and it really kicks
ass. I didn't know if this new album could surpass Bodom's preceding
album, ARE YOU DEAD YET?, but BLOODDRUNK exceeded all of my
expectations. The opening track, "Hellhounds On My Trail" is hard and
heavy, setting up a menacingly fast standard for the rest of the
album. One of the things that I have always liked about Children Of
Bodom is the fact that they use a keyboard, and more importantly, set
up places in the songs were the keyboard can be prominently heard. On
BLOODDRUNK, you can hear the keyboard in an even darker way than
what's been played on previous albums. Vocalist Alexi Laiho has such a
distinguished voice, which makes him stand out among other death metal
singers. If you're unfamiliar with his singing, then it could take
some getting used to. But once you embrace his unique style, you'll be
an instant Bodom fan. My favorite song on the album is "Tie My Rope."
It starts out with a distorted keyboard sound, and then is accompanied
by a steady and powerful drum beat. Suddenly the speed of the song
takes a rapidly fast turn, spiraling into brutal ferocity! The chorus
is vicious and melodic at the same time; it will have you itching to
know the lyrics so that you can sing along. Other tracks like
"LoBodomy" show classic Children Of Bodom style which is why it's one
of my favorite songs on the album. The international edition of this
album has the Stan Jones cover, "Ghost Riders In The Sky." The U.K.
edition also includes the Creedence Clearwater Revival cover song,
"Lookin' Out My Backdoor." The Japanese edition includes a Kenny
Rogers cover song, "Just Dropped In," in addition to the Stan Jones
cover. So, there are a few options out there if you want to buy the
album. I highly recommend it in any version! This album is a must for
Bodom fans, and the perfect album to start out with if you're thinking
about getting into this band.
- Stephanie Davison (
Zatanna7@...)
FATTOOTH (B-) Reversed Records, 2009
9 tracks, 34:13
[
http://www.myspace.com/fattooth ]
[
http://www.reversedrecords.com/ ]
Canadian outfit Fattooth play the kind of punk metal that drives
parents crazy -- it's loud, fast, abrasive and explicit. You can gauge
whether or not you're going to like this disc with opening track "Big
Daddy," a raging burst of authentic punk sneer that will make fans of
The Sex Pistols and Blag Flag smile. "Big Daddy" pretty much sets the
stage for what is to follow, some songs falling more to the metal side
of things like "Gunned By Noon" and "Shitzami," while punk gets the
nod on "High Times At Low Tide" and "Slave." There's a lot of fun here
for those so inclined (check out the dark humor and creative use of
saxophone on "Bacteria") although the frequent obscenity throughout
the album along with the anti U.S. sentiment of "The More Machine"
might be off-putting to some. Vocalist Hucifer is a classic screamer,
with no melodic singing to be found, but the approach really works
with this type of thing. Gene Hoglan (of Death, Strapping Young Lad
and Dethlok fame) was brought into the studio to provide the drum
tracks and he really powers the potent, biting rhythms of guitarist
George "Pow Pow" Xipoleas and bassist Mihran Boudakian. Ultimately
this is a stripped down, raw, frenzied rock blast that should find a
suitably adrenalized audience, especially in a live setting...
- Neal Woodall (
MysticX9@...)
HCE - ECHOLAND (C+) Reversed Records, 2006
10 tracks, RT: 44:39
[
http://www.myspace.com/hce ]
[
http://www.reversedrecords.com/ ]
Imagine one of the countless modern metalcore singers fronting early
period Nirvana and you'll get some idea of the sonic makeup of HCE.
This trio from Winnipeg, Canada play an energetic, strident brand of
grunge that is engaging at times but as often as not had me wanting to
take a break from it. Opening with the punky groove of "The Hostage,"
the band blare through 10 tracks that are full of anger but
surprisingly catchy at times. "Satire" has a strong Cobain-influenced
riff and vocal melody, "Paradise" speeds things up with some fine
drumming by the simply monikered "Sours," while "Saltpeter" lurches
with an experimental feel and some cool nuance. I guess "Set At
Naught" comes closest to what I relate to stylistically, with some
nice Sabbath riffs effectively bringing the heavy crunch. Honestly,
the vocals bring the whole thing down for me, but in the end this is a
type of music for which I am not the intended audience. If your tastes
include alternative heavy rock with modern elements you may quite like
this, in which case the grade for you may be higher...
- Neal Woodall (
MysticX9@...)
JOETOWN - PILLS AND AMMO (B-) Joetown Records, 2008
11 tracks, RT: 38:16
[
http://www.joetown.com ]
[
http://www.myspace.com/Joetown ]
[
http://www.myspace.com/joetownrecords ]
[
http://www.JoetownRocks.com/ ]
You've got to love a CD that looks like a tiny record, right? Well,
assuming you're not just going to stare at the thing I guess you might
want to know what it sounds like. Mixing styles together is a risky
proposition, sometimes producing awesome results (blues-rock) while at
times clashing horribly (rap-metal). On PILLS AND AMMO Joe Delaney
manages to blend an impressive number of potentially disparate genres
together with fairly potent results. Opener "Hole In My Soul"
modernizes the classic rock sounds of Led Zeppelin and Whitesnake with
some wicked vocoder effects, "Finger" throws together the alternative
rock vibe of Pearl Jam with Kid Rock while referencing Pat Travers,
then "My Anger Knows No Bounds" welds Pantera and Rob Zombie. Joe is a
decent singer and manages to turn in some tasty rhythm and fiery lead
guitar work, although for the most part he keeps things accessible
with a basic approach. The album bogs down in the middle with "LA
Tuning" and the vocal effects are a bit overused but there are some
cool moments on PILLS AND AMMO that beg to be heard in a live setting,
where they just might bring the generations together...
- Neal Woodall (
MysticX9@...)
MIDNATTSOL - NORDLYS (C+) Napalm Records, 2008
9 tracks, RT 49:55
[
http://www.midnattsol.com/ ]
[
http://www.myspace.com/midnattsolfolk ]
[
http://www.trig.com/midnattsol ]
[
http://www.napalmrecords.com/ ]
[
http://www.myspace.com/napalmrecords ]
Midnattsol, a German-Norwegian Nordic Folk Metal band is out with
their sophomore album, NORDYLS, (which translates to "The Northlight"
in English). The stars of the band appear to be the two women in the
band -- vocalist Carmen Elise Espanćs and bassist Birgit Öllbrunner.
The band claims that NORDYLS is more "metal" and "way more folk
oriented" than the previous album they released. The band has a kind
of mystical and mythological theme going on. They state that their
fans tend to be metalheads and Goths. The vocalist has a voice that is
reminiscent of an opera singer. Due to her singing style, it can be a
little hard to make out the lyrics when they're being sung. She
doesn't use this singing all of the time. Sometimes she uses what's
probably her natural voice, which sounds gentle and soothing.
Instrumentally, the band does sound like a metal band. The singing is
perhaps the more "Nordic Folk" component. There is also some acoustic
guitar playing, like on the song, "Wintertimes." This band can be
admired for their creativity in forming a unique brand of music.
However, NORDYLS just wasn't able to captivate me.
- Stephanie Davison (
Zatanna7@...)
PESTILENCE - RESURRECTION MACABRE (B-) Mascot Records U.S.A., 2009
14 tracks, RT: 54:33
[
http://www.pestilence.nl/ ]
[
http://www.myspace.com/pestilenceofficial ]
[
http://www.mascotrecords.com/ ]
Following a 15-year hiatus, Pestilence are back with RESURRECTION
MACABRE. Those familiar with late '80s death metal may remember the
band, who left a mark on the scene with albums such as CONSUMING
IMPULSE and SPHERES before hanging it up in 1994. On RESURRECTION
MACABRE Pestilence go for the throat relentlessly, delivering
merciless punishment on tracks with names like "Fiend," "Hate
Suicide," "HangMan," and "In Sickness And Death." Leader Patrick
Mameli is a vocalist of the guttural growl variety, so if you are not
into this style you won't find RESURRECTION MACABRE very enjoyable,
but if you are acclimated to this kind of thing (I can take it for
only short periods of time), you'll likely have a good time with the
album. One thing about it, these guys can play, with well-honed
technique evident in the angular riffs of Mameli, Tony Choy's nimble
bass and Peter Wildoer's speedy blast beats. It all gets kinda one-
dimensional for me after awhile, but it delivers exactly what you
expect it to and fans of death metal should eat it up. Brutal.
- Neal Woodall (
MysticX9@...)
TIME HAS COME - WHITE FUZZ (B-) Regain Records, 2008
10 tracks, RT 39:55, multimedia section
[
http://www.time-has-come.com/ ]
[
http://www.myspace.com/timehascome ]
[
http://www.regainrecords.com/ ]
[
http://www.myspace.com/regainrecords ]
Time Has Come is a death metal/grindcore/breakcore band from Hamburg,
Germany. Their first full-length album, WHITE FUZZ, debuted in 2008.
They have been described as "Something unorthodox unique with a love
for destruction." I found that this is a fairly accurate description
after listening to WHITE FUZZ. For the most part, the vocals are loud
and screaming. However, they have an odd way of transitioning to this
yelling. He'll start off singing in a somewhat normal tone -- for only
about a second -- then suddenly accelerate into a brutal, screaming
voice. Then the cycle repeats for what seems like every line that is
sung. It really stood out to me, because the hardcore vocals are not
completely, consistently all screaming. The lyrics can be hard to
decipher, but I think the lyrics aren't the thing Time Has Come wants
you to focus on. The song "Elevator To Prypiat" is a short
instrumental song. It differs from the other songs instrumentally as
well, as it is a slow and rather smooth sounding song. Of course there
are some odd distortions thrown in there sporadically. The last track
on the album, "The White Fuzz," is the other song here that is not as
heavy as the rest of the tracks. It starts out slow, but gradually
builds to a faster pace. It fades out with long distorted sound --
which maybe could be described as "white fuzz." This band has
potential, but I think with the exception of the two different-
sounding songs I mentioned, this album needs a little more diversity.
It's a decent death metal album in the least.
- Stephanie Davison (
Zatanna7@...)
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